Gary H. Schmidtke

Gary H. Schmidtke, 68, of Charlevoix passed away at home, after a long illness, on Tuesday, January 19, 2016, surrounded by family. He was born in Saginaw on July 14, 1947, the son of the late Harold A. and Deloris L. (Courtland) Schmidtke.

Gary attended St. Peter and Paul Catholic School for 12 years, graduating in 1965. He continued his education at Chicago Technical College, Wayne State University and Delta College. He was employed by General Motors Corporation for 39 years as an Engineer / Designer, retiring in 2004. In 1995 he obtained his Builders License and, in 2004, proudly designed and built their retirement home overlooking Lake Charlevoix.
Gary was a member of Ducks Unlimited, Friends of the Boyne River, American Foundrymen’s Society, Pioneer Club (golf) of Saginaw, Boyne Highlands Men’s Golf League, Boyne City Yacht Club, Clinton River Ski Club, Charlevoix Historical Society, Crooked Tree Art Center and several other organizations. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, fishing, boating, golfing, and skiing. He inherited his love of the outdoors from his parents.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Kathleen. Also surviving are his step-son, Jason Haucke of Hendersonville, TN; his sister, Eileen (Michael) Chrzanowski of Kingwood, TX & East Jordan, MI; his nephews, Alex (Amanda) Medler and Ethan Medler both of Kingwood, TX; his great-nephew and niece, Lukas and Adaline; and many special friends.

A Celebration of Life Service will take place at a later date. Those who wish are asked to make contributions in Gary’s memory to Friends of the Boyne River, The Charlevoix Historical Society, or the charity of your choice.

A special thanks to our friends who loved and supported us through this difficult time.
Arrangements are by Gaylord Community Funeral Home & Cremation Service. Please share your memories and personal messages with the family at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com