Jowett Family Funeral Home and Cremation

07/24/2026

Kelly Jean O’Grady, 67, of Elberta, Michigan, passed away on July 19, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. A devoted husband, father, and friend, Kelly will be remembered for his kindness and unwavering dedication to those he loved.

Kelly was born in Suffolk, Virginia on October 7, 1958, to Edward and Jane O’Grady, and from an early age he carried a quiet curiosity that never left him. His love of learning shaped his life, and he committed himself to helping others see the world more clearly, too.

Kelly was a proud 1976 graduate of Benedictine High School in Richmond, Virginia. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from the College of William & Mary in 1983 and his master’s degree from Mary Washington College in 1997. His career reflected his passions—as a newspaper editor for the Rappahannock Record, an Interpretation Ranger at Fredericksburg
and Spotsylvania National Military Park, and later as a middle school Social Studies and English teacher. Whether in a newsroom, a battlefield, or a classroom, Kelly had a remarkable gift for bringing history to life.

It was while serving as a park ranger that he met the love of his life, Krista Karasinski. They were married on April 25, 2002, and together built a life centered on love, family, and shared adventures.

Kelly was also the author of four Civil War novels, but if you asked him what mattered most, he would never have pointed to his books or career.

His greatest achievement in life was being a father to his son, Rory, and his daughter, Darby. Nothing made him happier than being their dad. As they grew, Kelly became the kind of father whose stories, songs, encouragement, and quiet wisdom became the foundation of countless cherished memories. Time spent with his children was among his life’s greatest joys—whether trainspotting and chasing fire trucks with Rory, fishing, telling ghost stories, cheering at softball games with Darby, or simply making everyone laugh with a made-up song or a perfectly timed family story.

Kelly faced a lifelong illness with a quiet courage that inspired everyone around him. He moved through each challenge with grace, strength, and a gentle perseverance. What endures is not the memory of his illness, but the kindness, compassion, and love he offered so freely.

Kelly was preceded in death by his parents, Edward O’Grady and Jane O’Grady Tiller, and stepfather, Calvin Tiller.

Kelly leaves behind his devoted wife of 24 years, Krista; his son, Rory O'Grady; his daughter, Darby O'Grady; his brothers, Timothy O'Grady and Shawn (Irene) O'Grady; and his sister, Catherine Sprouse. He is also survived by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Michael and Janice Karasinski; his brothers-in-law, Michael (Coni) Karasinski and Scott (Courtney) Karasinski; as well as many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss him greatly.

The family deeply appreciates your love, prayers, and support during this time. A private memorial will be held for immediate family, per Kelly’s wishes. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia.

07/23/2026

"With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of John Ruckrich, a devoted father, husband grandfather and international business traveler. John lived a life filled with adventure and unwavering love for his family. He passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. The memory of his fun-loving spirit will continue to live on."

John William Ruchrich was born on June 25, 1937, in Chicago, IL where he lived his childhood and most of his adult life. He attended Austin High School and received a baccalaureate degree at DePaul University where he majored in business and economics. After his graduation, per requirement, he chose to fulfill his ROTC two-year commitment in the U.S. Navy; was stationed in Maryland and selected to work in the computer/ data processing unit. This led to employment with IBM, where he assisted in launching IBM's new computer west of the Mississippi. His next job was with the Midwest Stock Exchange in Chicago as vice president of processing. Upon retirement from the Exchange, he took a position with Price Waterhouse via the U.S. State Dept. for 12 years, which took him abroad to 10-12 countries, which had been part of the U.S.S.R., to help and teach them how to set up stock exchanges and learn about owning property and deeds, etc. It was a challenge he enjoyed along with learning about other cultures. His favorite country was India.

Having vacationed at Crystal Lake for many years, in 1996 it was time to actually retire and purchase a home in Frankfort. Then he had more time for his love of music and joined the Benzie Community Chorus and church choirs. Also, there was time for local hikes, swimming, and tours of U.S. states and European countries, as well as challenging mountain hikes in Bhutan, Norway, and western U.S.

John was preceded in death by his mother and father, George and Catherine Ruckrich and Elizabeth, his loving wife of 37 years.

He is survived by his daughter, Evie Knottnerus and her husband, Sam; his son Phillip and his wife, Brenda; his grandchildren D'Jango and Jasmine; his brother George; nieces and nephews; and Sharon McKinley, companion.

John had been admitted to The Maples in May, and the family wants to express their appreciation for the excellent professional care and loving concern for patient and family by staff and administration.

A Celebration of Life for John is planned for Saturday, August 15, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Frankfort, with visitation at 10:00 a.m. and service at 11:00 a.m. followed by a luncheon for friends and family in Johnson Hall. An intimate service will be held on August 24 at 11:00 a.m. for John and Elizabeth at LaGrange Bible Church with a graveside gathering to follow at Queen of Heaven Cemetery in the Chicago area.

Donations are accepted for Alzheimer's Association or The Maples

Arrangements have been provided by Jowett Funeral Home, Benzonia, Michigan

07/21/2026

John S. Sedlock, born November 10, 1958, in Columbus, Ohio, to John H. and Ella M. “Peg” Sedlock, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2026.

John was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters-in-law, Rae and Lori Sedlock; his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Ed and Sally Baughman, and Pete and Sonnie Butler.

He leaves behind the love of his life, his wife of 41 years, Susan. Also cherishing his memory are his son, Rick (Christina) Huffman; his beloved grandson, Gabe Huffman; his faithful Labrador companion, Sadie; his brothers, Tim (Angela), Tom, Joe, and Jeff Sedlock; his brothers-in-law, Paul (Janet) and David Houseberg; his sister-in-law, Sandra (Emery) Leach; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

A proud 1976 graduate of Central High School in Columbus, John dedicated much of his career to serving others. He joined the Washington Township Fire Department in Dublin, Ohio, where he rose through the ranks to become Captain of the Fire Prevention Bureau. After years of devoted public service, he retired in 2000.

John had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and was a lifelong member of the NRA. He found his greatest happiness camping, fishing, and especially deer hunting alongside his son and grandson, creating memories that will be treasured for generations.
A devoted Ohio State Buckeyes fan, John spent seven seasons ushering games at Ohio Stadium, affectionately known as “The Horseshoe.” After relocating to northwest Michigan, he continued his beloved football tradition. On crisp autumn Saturdays, family and friends gathered in his “party barn,” where laughter, friendly rivalry, and Buckeye football made for unforgettable weekends.

John was also a longtime member of the Masonic fraternity, the Indian Lake Moose Lodge, and the Eagles, where he enjoyed the fellowship and friendships that enriched his life.

Family and friends are invited to a time of visitation and remembrance on Tuesday, July 28, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Jowett Family Funeral Home.

Arrangements with Jowett Family Funeral Home, Benzonia.

07/20/2026

Raymond Thomas Jusick
(Rejmund Thomasz Juszczyk)
Raymond Thomas Jusick, age 94, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family. Born in Jackson, Michigan, to Polish immigrants, Ray was proud of his heritage and the values of hard work and family that shaped his life. In 1951 he married his high school sweetheart, Beverly Maryanski. Together they shared 67 wonderful years of marriage until Beverly's passing in 2017.
Ray and Beverly raised their family in Lansing and Okemos, Michigan. For more than 60 years, Beulah, Michigan, was their cherished summer home, and beginning in 1995, they spent their winters in The Villages, Florida, where Ray built many lasting friendships.
A lifelong athlete, Ray loved sports from an early age. He played basketball and football for Jackson High School and was the starting center for the 1948 Class A State Championship basketball team. His competitive spirit stayed with him throughout his life as he enjoyed handball, softball, and especially golf. Over the years, he recorded five hole-in-ones and, even as he aged, was known to outplay much younger competitors.
Ray proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Korean War from 1952 to 1956. In 2019, he was selected by American Legion Post #347 in The Villages to participate in the Honor Flight Program to Washington, D.C., where he was recognized and celebrated for his military service.
Following his service, Ray earned his degree in Electrical Engineering from Michigan State University, later receiving his license as a Professional Engineer, from the State of Michigan. He dedicated 33 years to the Lansing Board of Water & Light, retiring in 1993 as Superintendent of Electric Maintenance & Metering after a distinguished career serving the City of Lansing.

Ray's talents extended far beyond his profession. He enjoyed building homes (nine in total) designed by his wife, Beverly, along with fishing, woodworking, and dancing. He was an accomplished ballroom, square, and polka dancer who loved taking to the dance floor with Beverly and, in more recent years, with his treasured companion, Mary even in his later years, he made an effort to dance at least part of every song. He delighted in knowing the band members by name and never missed the opportunity to request his favorite Oberek-style polka, insisting it include a traditional Oberek introduction.

When he wasn't golfing, fishing, or dancing, Ray could be found in his workshop. An exceptional woodworker and craftsman, he often said he let the wood "speak to him" as inspiration for his creations. He generously shared his work with family and friends, proudly displayed his latest projects at woodworking club seminars, and even exhibited pieces at the Oliver Art Center in Frankfort, Michigan.

In his later years, Ray spent more time participating in team events and friend gatherings. Wednesday evenings were dedicated to euchre, Fridays began with “breakfast with the boys,” Tuesdays evenings were reserved for trivia, and weekday mornings in Florida meant coffee with friends where he loved trying to stump everyone with questions from the trivia night before. His favorite response when someone confidently answered incorrectly was, "You would think so, wouldn't you? But you'd be wrong."
Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Tomasz and Apolonia (Chmiel) Juszczyk; his beloved wife, Beverly (Maryanski) Jusick; his sisters, Stella Hawley (Fred), Sophie Bennett (Floyd Bennett and Bill Biel), and Lottie Young (Jack); and his brother, Xavier Juszczyk (Catherine).

He is survived by his daughters, Jill Montgomery and Carol Polzer (John); his step-grandson, Ryan; his companion, Mary Ann Farrell; and many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

For Ray’s Michigan friends and family, a service with full military honors, will be held at St Ann’s Parish in Frankfort Michigan, Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 10am. A Celebration of Life with Ray’s Florida friends will be held in the fall of 2026. Details forthcoming. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Munson Healthcare Hospice. Arrangement with Jowett Family Funeral Home.

07/16/2026

Eugene Richard Draper
May 24, 1945 – July 9, 2026

Eugene's gentle spirit and immense love for GOD will forever be remembered fondly as he touched many with his strong Christian faith. It is with certainty that we can say that he is now standing at the gates of Heaven singing his favorite hymn, Old Rugged Cross at the top of his lungs and praising GOD.

As a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corp, Eugene served his country from Oct. 1963- to Oct. 1967-.

Eugene fought pancreatic cancer like a warrior with such bravery and courage, and he honored the Lord throughout the battle that took his life on July 9, 2026. He was a true inspiration and a strong warrior to the very end.
Eugene loved his family dearly and especially his soul mate, Cynthia Maria Peplinski whom he met at the very young age of 14 picking cherries together. He would tell you how her smile lit up the entire room. He loved to brag about Cynthia's cooking, knitting projects, and gardening. They married on August 12, 1963, and they started their life together in Oceanside, CA. They returned to the Traverse City area after Gene's four-year Marine enlistment in time to celebrate the birth of twins, Kimberly Anna Tanis and Kevin Russell Draper in Dec. of 1967. They eagerly parented twins and soon after welcomed Michelle Lynn Miller in July of 1969. It was a busy, full life surrounded by family in Maple City.

Eugene built the home where he raised his family in Maple City as a true labor of love with the help of his family (especially his two fathers) and his best friend, Russell. Leather working, beading, reading, and sharping saw blades were four of the hobbies that he enjoyed immensely.

His dear friends Joe, Steve, Chuck and Jim loved to share the stories of their youth together. They were a source of strength during the last four years. His brother, Donnie and wife Nancy were so wonderful to him the past four years (taking him to appointments, visiting, and bringing him amazing homemade meals. He always spoke highly of his Grandpa and Grandma Mosher and Grandpa and Grandma Draper.

Eugene worked for the U. S. Postal service for his entire career and enjoyed hunting and fishing and entertaining his family when he was not working. His church family was a significant part of his life.

Eugene is survived by his three children : Kimberly (James), Kevin (Lora), and Michelle (Frank) and his grandchildren: Baeley, Kaley (Brandon) Brooke, Brian, and Jacob. He has two great grandchildren : Charlotte and Grayson. He is also survived by two of his three siblings: Donald (Nancy) and Mary Lou. He was preceded in death by his dear wife, Cynthia Marie Draper (Peplinski) , Mary Louise Draper (mother) Russell Draper (father), his Linda Miller (sister) , and Zechariah Tanis ( grandson).

Dad waited and trusted in the Lord as the verse in Isaiah 40:31 says. He is flying, and he is no longer weary. Thank God for the Godly life that Eugene led.

A celebration of life will be Sunday August 9, 2026 at Jowett Family Funeral Home in Benzonia, with military honors under the auspices of VFW Cherryland Post 2780 following the service.

07/16/2026

Kathy Burns passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Frankfort Senior Care, with her daughter, Julie, lovingly holding her hand.

Kathy was born to Harold and Lillian Carroll. During her childhood, she also shared a special bond with her stepmother, who was also named Lillian, and often spoke fondly of the many memories they made together.

Kathy was first married to Gilbert Gerhart George Krause. Later, in 1986, Kathy married Jimmey Burns, together they built a life centered on love, family and hard work. They shared a happy marriage until Jim’s passing in 2016. Their home on Weldon Road was their own little slice of heaven—a place they cherished and where countless family memories were made.
Kathy dedicated much of her life to serving others through emergency medical services. She founded the Thompsonville Ambulance Service and devoted her career to saving lives while educating others. She taught Advanced First Aid, CPR, vehicle extrication, and EMT courses, helping prepare generations of first responders. Kathy could drive an ambulance with the very best of them—and she would be the first to tell you so. She was spirited, fearless, and capable of handling whatever challenge came her way. Her determination, confidence, and quick wit were among the many qualities that made her unforgettable.
Summers were especially meaningful to Kathy, who loved hosting family and friends at her camp on Healy Lake. Her faithful dog, Lucky, was always by her side. One favorite family story tells of the day Lucky “rescued” Kathy after she wandered a little too far into the water, grabbing her arm and pulling her safely back toward shore.

Kathy is lovingly remembered by her children, Julie (Bob) Murrey, and Kevin (Letty) Krause, Donny Burns, Eric Burns, Lance (Nancy) Burns, Len (Debbie) Burns, Lorrie Groenevelt, She is also survived by her grandchildren, Courtney Krause, Samantha Krause, Matthew Krause, Zachary, Payton, and Jordan; many great-grandchildren; her brother Tim (Virginia) Miller, her brothers-in-law, Charles and Bill Burns; her sister-in-law, Evelyn Thie; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jimmey Burns, in 2016, and sister "Lollie" Miller.

John 14:1–3
“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Kelly, Steve, and the entire staff at Frankfort Senior Care for the compassionate, respectful, and loving care they provided to Kathy during her time there.

The family would also like to express their deepest appreciation to Sue Webber, a treasured friend of more than 30 years. Throughout the decades, Sue’s friendship was a constant source of love, laughter, and support. When Kathy was diagnosed with vascular dementia, Sue remained steadfast by her side, playing an instrumental role in helping her transition from Munson Medical Center to Frankfort Senior Care. She watched over Kathy’s home while it sat vacant and continued to be a loyal advocate and devoted friend throughout her journey. Sue also became an invaluable source of strength and guidance for Julie during an incredibly difficult time. Words cannot adequately express the family’s gratitude for Sue’s kindness, generosity, unwavering friendship, and the countless ways she cared for Kathy and those who loved her.

A private family service will be held, followed by interment at Homestead Township Cemetery.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Jowett Family Funeral Home.

07/16/2026

Thomas “Tom” Watt, of Bear Lake, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2026, at the age of 71.
Tom was born on December 14, 1954, in Dearborn Heights, Michigan, the son of George and Donna Watt.

From an early age, Tom was known for his incredible work ethic. He began working in the oilfields at just 15 years old, a career that spanned more than 50 years. He later turned his mechanical talents into his own business, Compressor & Engine Service, which he proudly owned and operated from 1992 until 2025. Alongside his career, Tom dedicated more than 30 years of service to the local fire department, always willing to lend a hand when his community needed him.

Tom found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He cherished meeting his mom for their regular coffee chats, where conversation and laughter were always on the menu. He loved riding his motorcycle and was happiest with the open road ahead, never knowing where the next adventure might lead.

Tom and Nancy shared 31 wonderful years together, filling their lives with laughter, family, and unforgettable adventures. One favorite story was a trip to Wyoming to deliver a compressor. What started as a simple job turned into an unforgettable road trip that included a stop at Mount Rushmore and an unexpected return home with three spools of wire for a friend. Tom would laugh as he recalled the truck straining up the mountain, saying, “Boy, that was a rush!” It was one of countless stories that captured his sense of humor and his knack for turning ordinary moments into lifelong memories.

When Tom wasn’t working, he was rarely sitting still. He enjoyed drag racing at Kaleva, building demolition derby cars, mud bogging, buggy riding at Silver Lake Sand Dunes, three-wheeling, camping in the RV, and spending time outdoors. More than anything, he treasured any opportunity to gather with family. Whether around a campfire, at a holiday celebration, or simply enjoying each other’s company, those moments meant the world to him.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 10 years, Nancy Ann Watt; his children, Charity (Ron) Fraly, Hope (Dougie) Frank, Jason (Julie) Watt, Thomas H. Watt Jr., Cassandra (Rachael) Briske, and stepson Travis (Shayla) Smith; his siblings, Catherine (Todd) Watt, George (Darcy) Watt, Diane Watt, Donna Watt, Dawn Watt, and Dennis Barbre; brother-in-law Doug Osborn; his grandchildren, Jackson and James Frank, Tyler and Jayden Watt, Hanaa Fraly, Trenton Watt, Kaylee Watt, and Karlee Watt; his great-grandchildren, Arielle Frank and Oaklynn Watt; his mother-in-law, Anna Charlich; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by parents George and Donna Watt, sister Rose Marie Osborn and granddaughter Kiersten Watt.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, July 17, 2026, at Jowett Family Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor David Taylor officiating the service. Burial will be on Monday at 1:00pm at Fairview Cemetery in Bear Lake. Arrangements have been entrusted to Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia.

07/15/2026

Thomas Harold Watt, of Bear Lake, passed away on July 11, 2026 at the age of 71.

Funeral service will be held at 1:00 pm Friday, July 17 at Jowett Family Funeral Home. A visitation will begin at 11:00 am until the time of the service.

Once finalized, the full obituary will be made available.

Send a message to learn more

07/10/2026

“Let all that you do be done in love.” -- Corinthians 16:14

Darlene gave us reason to celebrate summer and to celebrate life, as she lit up from within. Her eyes and her smile were filled with love for those in her life. She was born July 16, 1938 to Edwin and Marie (Lassen) Kerby in Frankfort, Michigan. She was pure of heart in this life.

As Darlene is already missed by all, we are fortunate to have experienced her grace and love, though we know she will be at Heaven’s gate to meet us when we cross over from this life. She finished this part of her journey quietly and peacefully at home with family, and went to be with the Lord, Monday afternoon March 23, 2026.

Darlene found true love with her husband Bryce Gray. They married in 1986 and had twentyfour love and faith-filled years together on the north shore of Big Platte Lake. Bryce treasured Darlene and he was her beloved. When they said they would pray for you, they did--every night at bedtime. They felt deeply for those who experienced hardship and were generous in spirit and with their friendship. Bryce passed in March of 2010, however; Darlene’s faith sustained her.

Her life’s work and joy was the love and care for her family, and often the families of others. She cared for several foster children and later reunited with some of them, which filled her heart, as well as theirs. She taught Sunday school for many years at First Congregational Church of Benzonia, where she was also part of their Women’s Fellowship. Over the years, Darlene worked at Gwen Frostic’s, HW Jencks and Pet Milk in Frankfort, then later at Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital, as a purchasing assistant. While there, she exceeded the expectations of her job and was recognized for her outstanding service being awarded Employee of the Year. Darlene went beyond providing supplies, as she would visit patients while on break, dropping by their room to comfort and pray for them. Her kindness and reassurance made people feel that they mattered. She had a servant’s heart and truly cared.

Darlene had many friends from high school days and beyond, including the neighbors of Orchard Street in Benzonia, where she raised her family. She also accumulated friends in Bradenton and Fountain View in N. Fort Myers, FL., including Teresa Good and Judy McGonis. No matter where she was, you were always welcome and loved. One of the highlights of Darlene’s life was her trip to the Holy Land in the late 80’s. This had a profound impact on her and really solidified her relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ.

Darlene (aka; Tillie) leaves her legacy of love to her children Lorrie Groenevelt, Len (Debbie) Burns, Lance “Louie” (Nancy) Burns, Donny Burns, and Eric (Vonnie) Burns. The many grandchildren had the great blessing of having “GiGi” in their lives—Ashley Schulz, Todd (Michelle) Bulemore, Cory Bulemore, Evan Burns, Kyle (Amanda) Burns, Zachary Burns (engaged to Hannah Covell), Jordan Burns (Breanna Geiger), and Payton Burns (Zach Hoyt), as well as Ruth Ann “Rudy” Strickland and Nichole Wittig. Darlene also had twelve great grandchildren!

Darlene lost some of her loved ones over the years. Her parents went first, then siblings Gene, Shirley, Barb, Tom, Maria, and Cheryl. Additional family that pre-deceased her was stepson Jimmey Burns, her Son-In-Law Bryan Groenevelt, and in 2020 Grandson Nathan Groenevelt. Her loving siblings still with us are Fred (Dorothy) Kerby, Wayne “Sonny” Kerby, Debbie
(Dennis) Keitzman, and Kim Mullen-Mead.

There are some who were very special to Darlene over the years, including her two “Sisters-InLove” Peggy Hall and Helen Robotham. The family wanted to mention Rhonda Moody Gruwell (aka; Dolly), as they were very close. Her niece, Penny Beck stayed 24/7 with Darlene the last three months, providing excellent comfort and care to her favorite “Auntie”. One of her angels
she is reunited with is family friend Elizabeth Sheets, who was her go-to for many years.

“Her voice will echo
in memories you hold.
Her smile will warm you
through stories retold.
Her love will touch you
in spirit each day.
Her life will be treasured
in beautiful ways.”

For this is what the Lord says, “As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you.”
Isaiah 66:13 NIV

Arrangements have been made with Jowett Family Funeral Homes. Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Darlene’s life will take place Saturday July 18th at Eden Bible Church at 1:30 pm. Contributions in Darlene’s honor may be made to Benzie Senior Resources or Hospice of Michigan

Open Invitation:

For friends and family that want to celebrate Darlene’s 88th birthday, we will be hosting a Margaritaville Birthday Celebration for Mother on Friday July 17th at 5:00pm at 2036 South St Honor, MI.

Refreshments: Margaritas, Cervezas, chips and salsa will be provided. Festive attire encouraged, as Mother would appreciate this!
Children of Darlene Gray

07/08/2026

Dale Eugene Gilbert, 68, of Beulah Michigan, passed away peacefully on July 1st, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. He was a dedicated and cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His humor, kindness, and work ethic touched the lives of all who knew him.

Dale was born on February 2, 1958, in Frankfort, Michigan, to Robert and Dorothy Gilbert. He was the little brother to Vicki Mix. Dale graduated from Frankfort High School where he was a multi-sport athlete, and after graduation quickly assumed his career in grocery. He went on to a fulfilling career at Shop N Save, where he worked his way up the chain from bag boy to store director. You would often find him strolling the aisles early in the morning, coffee in hand, checking in on each of his departments. He valued the relationships he developed with all former employees and customers throughout the years. Dale was deeply proud of his 47-year commitment to the store.

After retirement, Dale spent his time fishing, golfing, and cherished spending time with his family, most notably his grandchildren. For those that knew Dale, knew he had a great sense of humor, he was a meticulous lawn man, devoted father to his boys in which he never missed a game, race, or fight. Dale was an avid outdoorsman, sports fanatic, and never missed an opportunity for a pole barn beer. Go Lions and Go Blue!

Dale Gilbert is survived by his beloved wife, Sherry Gilbert; his three sons Joe Miller (Erin), Gavin Gilbert (Ally), and Tyler Gilbert (Kayla); his eight grandchildren Kaitlyn, Makayla, Tegan, Kendall, Grayson, Olivia, Kinslee, and Aspen; his sister Vicki Mix; nephew Kurt Mix (Ashley & Logan); niece Kylie Mix (Chris); family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Dorothy Gilbert; uncles Dave and Faye Gilbert; cousins Kathy Morcou and Patty Konieczka; and one of his favorite cousins Mason Argue.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, September 4th, 2026, at the Life Saving Station in Elberta, Michigan from 4pm- 8pm. Arrangements with Jowett Family Funeral Home, Benzonia.