Barbara Lou Techel

Barbara Lou Techel, 80 of Gaylord, passed away on Monday, December 26, 2016 at her daughter’s home, surrounded by her family in Gaylord.

Born in Utica, MI on July 23, 1936, she was the daughter of Joseph “Bud” and Gertrude (Thorpe) McKim.  She was a 1954 graduate of Utica High School.

On March 5, 1955, Barbara married the love of her life, Fredrick J. Techel, in Utica.  They lived in Madison Heights and Utica before moving to Gaylord.  A direct descendant of Jane Brink, Otsego County’s first white woman settler, Barbara and Fred built their own home and have called Gaylord home since 1977.

Barbara loved spending time with her all of her family.  She loved the outdoors, fishing, sitting on her front porch listening for the train, reading her novels, dancing and listening to music.  She also enjoyed baking and talking with her grandchildren.  Barbara was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church.

She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Fredrick; her children, Brian (Tamula) Techel of Gaylord, Gregory (Sharon) Techel of Gaylord, Deborah (Michael) Duty of Gaylord, Darlene Techel of Gaylord and Heidi (Scott) Rose of Mancelona; grandchildren, Jennie (Bobby), Nicole (Ian), Samantha (Josh), Patrick (Hannah), Philip, Stacey (Bobby), Kellie, Kyle (Alivia), Josh, Jackie (Trent), Maggie, Amber, Alix and Cameron; fifteen great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents and seven brother and sisters.

The family will visit with friends from 5:00-8:00 PM on Friday, December 30, 2016 at Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Saturday, December 31, 2016 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 1354 S. Otsego Avenue, in Gaylord where visitation will begin at 10:00 AM.  Burial will take place in the spring at Otsego Lake Township Cemetery.

Those who wish are asked to consider memorial contributions to the church or to the family.  Please share your memories and personal messages with the family at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com