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Jowett Family Funeral Home and Cremation, 7223 South Street, Benzonia, MI (2026)

08/05/2026

John Westbrook Gardner passed away peacefully on August 1, 2026, at The Maples in Frankfort, Michigan, at the age of 80.

John was born to Livingston Gifford "Giff" Gardner and Anna Margaret "Peggy" Bear Gardner on November 16, 1945, in Evanston, Illinois. John graduated from New Trier High School and Florida Southern College, where he met his future wife, Virginia.

In the summer of 1963, he and his younger brother Jeff pulled into Watervale Inn for the first time. Having been invited by his aunt and uncle, who were dear friends of Watervale's owners, Vern and Vera Noble, John immediately found what would become his spiritual home and spent his college summers of 1964, 1965, and 1966 working as a "dish dog" in the kitchen, sailing on Lower Herring Lake, swimming, climbing sand dunes, and playing tennis. Those summers remained etched in John's heart and mind throughout his life. Even as Alzheimer's gradually stole many of his memories, his love for Watervale and the friendships he formed there endured.

John's marriage to Virginia produced two children — Jessica and David, who live in Benzonia. John enjoyed being a dad, and spent countless hours playing checkers and reading, coaching soccer, going on Indian Guide and Princess camping trips, and of course, bringing Jessica and David to Watervale each summer. Without a doubt, days at Watervale were his favorite each year.
Although he grew up in a family of devoted White Sox fans, John proudly became a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan and passed that love on to Jessica and David, sharing many games together from the Wrigley Field bleachers. Seeing the Cubs finally win the 2016 World Series after 108 years was one of the great joys of his life.

After he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, he moved from Indiana, where he'd lived for 20-plus years, to his beloved northern Michigan. He was always in awe of its beauty and delighted in outings to Watervale, Sleeping Bear Dunes, Fish Town, and more right up to the end. One of his favorite activities was watching the sunset each night, preferably from the Watervale beach.
Jessica, David, and Virginia wish to thank the staff of The Maples, Heartland Hospice, and Maple Ridge Manor in Manistee for the love, devotion, and compassionate care they showed John and our entire family over the past four years.

John is survived by his children, Jessica and David, brothers Jeff and Giff, sister Kathy, his former wife, Virginia, and many cousins and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Giff and Peggy, and his younger brother, Ray, who he missed deeply.

A celebration of life will be held in the fall at Watervale, naturally. Until we gather, perhaps you'll think of John the next time you watch a beautiful sunset or celebrate a Chicago Cubs victory.

08/04/2026

Marian Jean (Deemer) Fink passed away July 31, 2026 at the age of 80.
She is survived by husband Roger Fink, grandchildren Katelyn Fink, Caleb Fink, William Fink.
She was preceded in death by son Mark Fink, parents John and Estella (Merrill) Deemer
Jean loved life in every way possible. She loved Jesus and faithfully served at her church, Rollins. Jean cherished her husband, Roger, throughout their beautiful 61 years of marriage. Together they loved their son, Mark Fink, who passed on September 1, 2023, and they were deeply enriched by their grandchildren Katelyn, Caleb, and Will.
Jean retired from Manton Schools after more than 20 years of teaching in the special needs department, where her compassion touched countless lives. She loved walking with her dear friend Sheri—whom she considered a daughter—and together they walked thousands of miles over their 20 years of friendship.
Jean was also an avid shopper, often cruising through TJ Maxx in search of a good deal or a cute top that reminded her of someone she loved. But most of all, Jean adored her little blue dock on the lake. You could often find her tending her yard or sitting on the dock in the evening, feeding her turtles and swans who came looking for her.
Jean was loved fiercely by everyone around her, and many often told her they wished she was their grandma. She will be deeply missed, and her love and generosity will be carried forward by all those she impacted most.
A service will be held Saturday August 8th at Rollins Church in Manton at 11:00 am with a visitation one hour prior. A burial will take place at Inland Township Cemetery. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia.

08/03/2026

"It’s with sadness and heavy hearts that we’re sharing the news that our mom, Jane Ann Kundel, has passed away. She was born on November 20, 1935, and left us on July 27, 2026, leaving a huge space in our lives that will never be filled. We’ll always remember her for her kind heart, her endless love, and the deep care she wrapped around everyone she knew.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, to Norman and Mary Cassidy, she was the oldest of four children and grew up in Allen Park, Michigan, with her siblings Robert, Sally (McChesney), and Daniel. After high school, she attended Mercy School of Nursing, where she earned her Registered Nurse credential. She said she always wanted to be a nurse, and her caring nature made it a perfect career. She explored a wide variety of nursing experiences before she found her passion as an industrial nurse at Ford
Motor Company's Rouge Plant, where our grandfather worked. This gave her some special perks, including the opportunity to own one of the first Ford Mustangs produced.

She met our Dad, John, in Detroit at a bar called Moby Dicks. We love the story of how she told him her number was “in the book” and he mistakenly called her cousin, who shared her phone number. They were married in July of 1967, when their adventure together began, which included five different cities, two children (Karen & John), seven dogs, six horses and too
many cats to count, in a loving marriage of 57 years.

Quilting was one of our Mom’s passions, and she was involved in many quilting clubs over the years. Her quilting and sewing skills were appreciated by everyone, especially those who are lucky enough to have one of her quilts to snuggle up with or hang on their wall. She was an avid gardener who loved growing many different types of flowers and herbs. These flowers would attract hummingbirds, which we all loved to watch outside the kitchen window. There were always a wide variety of birds fluttering around their homes because caring for them was another source of enjoyment. Two other passions stand out: her love of dogs and her love for her grandchildren.

Our parents loved Golden Retrievers and rescued four of them, training them to be therapy dogs. Their last dog Skippy gave Mom comfort and a purpose after the loss of our father, John, two years ago.

Her four grandchildren also gave her so much joy. Quinn, Flora, Rowan and Nate were some of the most important humans in her life. She enjoyed attending games and concerts and always supported their dreams and passions. She also loved baking cookies for them all.

We say goodbye to a remarkable woman, a loving mother, a doting grandmother, and a truly kind soul. While we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the love, joy, and kindness that defined her beautiful life, which she shared with us and instilled in all of us.

Jane was predeceased by her husband, John A. Kundel, Jr.; her parents, Norman and Mary Cassidy; and her brother, Daniel Cassidy.

She is survived by her daughter, Karen (Jon) Zickert; her son, John Kundel III (Jennifer); her siblings, Robert Cassidy and Sally McChesney; and her grandchildren, Nate Kundel and Quinn, Flora & Rowan Zickert.

We would like to thank Munson Medical Center and Munson Hospice House, who were immensely caring and supportive throughout her health journey. A celebration of her life is being planned. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia."

08/03/2026

John Henry Anderson of Carefree, Arizona passed away on July 18, 2026, just hours after he attended his family reunion in Frankfort, MI. He was born October 13, 1936, to John and Elsie Anderson in Frankfort, Michigan. John was one of six Anderson children of whom there were 3 girls and 3 boys. His family and hometown friends knew him as Juge, a name affectionately given to him by his maternal Grandpa Stacey.

He married Judi Kathryn Lanz on August 6, 1975, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Traverse City, Michigan. They celebrated their 50th anniversary with a cruise around the Great Lakes and visited Mackinac Island, MI where they had honeymooned. He and Judi enjoyed a blessed and happy life together full of wonderful friends, rich career experiences, and many memorable moments for which they are both eternally grateful.

John is survived by his wife Judi of 50 years, his sisters Molly (Paul) Nichols, Maren Bailey and brother Eric (MaryAnn) Anderson. He very much loved his many Anderson cousins and nieces/nephews in his family—Chris (Deb) Anderson, Dana (Angie) Anderson, Jane Nichols, Kara Nichols (TJ Costello), Phillip Bailey, and Stacey (Dane) Bryant. And in Judi’s family—his sister-in-law’s Janie Risk and Jeanne Butterfield, and nieces/nephews—Seana (Al) Thrasher, Jennifer (Rory) McShane, Charles McShane, Kellie (Mike) Stallings, Josh (Danie) Stallings, Keenan (Caitlin) Stallings, Karin (David) Massicott, Morgan (Aidan) Cupples, Audrey (Luke) Massicott, Kassie (Curt) Schmidt, Ashley (Carlos) Robles, and Savannah Schmidt.

John was preceded in death by his parents, and brother, David Anderson of Frankfort, MI and a sister, Mary Bailey of Cookeville, TN.

EDUCATION - John graduated from Frankfort High School in 1954 and then attended Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City earning an associate’s degree in liberal arts in 1956.

He continued studies at Central Michigan University in Mt. Pleasant and earned a Bachelor of Science degree majoring in Biology and minor in Sociology in 1958. Several years later, he studied Limnology and Aquatic Botany through Central Michigan University’s Beaver Island Center.

He attended Arizona State University (ASU) in Tempe, Arizona and earned a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology in 1962. Later he continued his graduate studies at ASU earning a doctorate in Higher Education Administration in 1972.

TEACHING CAREER - John’s professional teaching experience began in 1958 at Remus High School, Remus, Michigan where he taught Sciences and Math, and coached basketball and gymnastics. He also drove the school bus to away games for basketball.

In 1960 he taught at Mesa Junior High School, and in 1962 he was one of the faculty that opened Coronado High School in Scottsdale. He taught biology, geology and astronomy, and later was a Guidance Counselor. At Coronado he also coached junior varsity football and varsity swimming.

In 2015 he attended the 50th reunion of the first four-year graduating class of 1965 from Coronado High School (Scottsdale) and was honored to meet former faculty and students who spoke of the positive influence he had on them. One former student had a successful career in Astronomy that he attributed to John’s passion for the universe, and two of his former swimming students said their lives were enriched due to the discipline developed through many hard hours of swim practice under John’s tutelage.

From 1968 to 1984 he served as Assistant Professor of Astronomy at Northwestern Michigan College and enjoyed conducting sky labs with students and friends for many years.

In 1988 he also served for a year as Education Faculty and Community College Specialist at Arizona State University in their Higher Education program.

ADMINISTRATION CAREER - In addition to teaching, John served various administrative roles at Northwestern Michigan College for a span of 17 years from 1966-1984 including Dean of Student Services. He was Dean of Instruction at Gogebic Community College in Ironwood in the upper peninsula of Michigan for several years and became Vice President at West Virginia Northern Community College in Wheeling, West Virginia in 1989. He and Judi moved to Arizona where he became President of Northland Pioneer College and served six years in the high desert country of northern Arizona. John then semi-retired and moved to Phoenix and served as Legislative Liaison for Northland for two years. He served as managing partner for a consulting group, Synergy Strategists, which specialized in community college issues. In 1999 he was called to serve as Interim President at Black Hawk College in Moline, Illinois and he served again as Interim President at Rock Valley College in Rockford, Illinois in 2004. Between his interim presidencies he worked for two years at the Golden Spur Ranch in Scottsdale as Wrangler and sometimes Ranch Foreman. He published a book with his Synergy Strategist partners titled AS WE SEE IT, A Survival Guide for Community College Administrators and Trustees.

John was recognized with many awards for his accomplishments throughout his career and he also served as President of the Arizona Community College President’s Council. His was a member of many professional organizations and was also recognized for community service activities including Kiwanis and Rotary. He also served for many years as a member of the President’s Circle at Paradise Valley Community College in Phoenix.

INTERESTS –He enjoyed athletics and was proud to run track and serve as quarterback of the football team at Frankfort High School. He also participated in boxing while in college in Traverse City and played tennis and golf for many years. He built a home in the woods in Suttons Bay, Michigan and enjoyed various woodworking projects.

John enjoyed many memorable fishing trips to Big Lake, Roosevelt Lake and others in Arizona with his teaching friends. His interests also included fly-fishing, college football, reading (particularly about King Arthur and Camelot), cooking, fencing, and watching western movies.

He enjoyed riding horses, and he and his faithful and steady horse Cortez spent many hours on the trails exploring the Tonto National Forest with friends. He often gave the blessing at the “Juniper Café” under the trees with his friend Rob Neill just before lunchtime.

John was a man of faith and he was a member of Desert Foothills Lutheran Church in Scottsdale. John enjoyed gardening and landscaping very much and lovingly cared for the trees, bushes and cactus in his community in Carefree. He wrote a book of thought-provoking aphorisms and enjoyed deep conversations with friends on any number of topics including the universe, religion, history and politics.

LEGACY – John’s many contributions to Education and Students are immeasurable. He was proud of passing the first capital bond election at Northland Pioneer College in Navajo County, Arizona in 1995 and built the college’s first permanent classroom buildings on each of its four campuses in Holbrook, Winslow, Snowflake/Taylor, and Show Low. There is a monument to him at the Show Low campus that reads “Dr. John H Anderson, President 1991-1997, Your Vision and Perseverance Will Serve as the
Standard of Excellence for Years to Come.”

He once said that he would like to be remembered for making a positive difference in the lives of his students and others. It’s safe to say that he did that well. He will be missed dearly and will be remembered for his good nature and positive influence on his family and friends.

Service will be held at Desert Foothills Lutheran Church, Scottsdale, Arizona on Tuesday AUG 18 at 1pm in the Fellowship Hall and also live-streamed. A reception will follow. Interment will be Tuesday, AUG 25 at 2pm at Crystal Lake Twp North Cemetery, Frankfort, MI.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to Desert Foothills Lutheran Church, Scottsdale, Arizona or Northwestern Michigan College, Traverse City, Michigan.

Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia, Michigan.

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 Ruckrich 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 2:00 pm 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.

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