2020 Memorials
Name: William Rice
Born: July 15, 1929
Died: October 12, 2020 (91)
MC Member: June 12, 2018 (2)
Bill was the son of Thomas and Christina Rice of Detroit. He graduated from River Rouge High School, Michigan State University (where he was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha), and the Wayne State University College of Medicine.
Following an internship at Queen’s Hospital in Hawaii, he joined the U.S. Air Force as a Flight Surgeon and was stationed in the South Pacific. After his military service, he met his wife, Ginnie, a nurse, in San Francisco. Returning to Michigan for his residency, he was Board certified by the American College of Surgeons and went on to co-develop Lakeshore ENT—one of the largest ear, nose, and throat practices in the state.
Upon his retirement, Bill co-founded The Holley Institute with its services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and was its vice president and medical director. An avid tennis player, skier, runner, scuba diver, and photographer, he is survived by his wife of 58 years, sons Grantland and Garrett, grandchildren Taylor and Jackson, and more than two dozen nieces and nephews.
An outdoor service was held on the Trinity Terrace at the Grosse Pointe Memorial Church on Tuesday, October 27th at 12 Noon. Donations (in lieu of flowers) can be made to The Holley Institute, Boll Professional Building (Suite 223), 22151 Moross Road, Detroit, Michigan 48236. For Bill Rice’s obituary see AH Peters Funeral Home.
Name: David A. Beatty
Born: August 9, 1936
Died: October 24, 2020 (84)
MC Member: May 26, 1987 (33)
David was born in Grosse Pointe, to Melvin William Beatty and Audrey Louise Levillier. He was proud of his heritage as a direct descendant of Capt. John Martin and the French family who settled on the ribbon farms in Grosse Pointe. A graduate of Grosse Pointe South High School, David was in the co-op program at Chrysler Co. He retired from Chrysler in 1984.
David was a volunteer at many events and historical venues. He also was involved with the Chrysler travel group, Pentastar Travel. An active participant at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dexter, David often assisted at funeral luncheons for fellow parishioners. David was well-loved by his neighborhood community at Sugarloaf Lake in Chelsea, where his family owned a cottage more than 100 years and where he eventually retired.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Oct. 28, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Burial took place at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Detroit. Expressions of sympathy in David’s name may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 7870 4th St., Dexter, MI 48130. Arrangements are entrusted to Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea, mitchellfuneral.com.
Name: Sterling E. Berry
Born: April 29, 1925
Died: October 13, 2020 (95)
MC Member: February 7, 1989 (31)
Sterling grew up in Grosse Pointe. His summers spent on the Lake St. Clair Flats, where he watched freighters go by, ignited his lifelong love of the Great Lakes and Great Lakes shipping. A 1943 graduate of Grosse Pointe High School, Sterling served in the U.S. Navy in World War II. He graduated from Northwestern University in 1950. Sterling married Anne Louise Hinchman in 1959, and shared 61 years with his beloved “Anniebelle.” Together they raised five daughters, Julia Berry, Ginna Ericksen (Matt), Martha Long, Barbara Pappas (William) and Melissa Hibdon (Terry). Sterling was the proud grandfather of Nick Ericksen, Melissa Ericksen Burns (Will), Andie Long, Peter Sterling Ericksen, Emily Ericksen Johnson (Alex), Stephanie Long, Theodore Sterling Pappas and Sterling Hibdon. He was honorary grandfather to Alejandro Lleras (Leah) and Mark Holley (Karen), and great-grandfather to their children, Maddie and Olivia Lleras and Charlotte Holley; beloved uncle of Ken Berry (Connie Nassios), Judith Garver (Patrick), Emma Meston (Jim), Sara Howell (Brad), Carolyn Gray (Dan), David Hinchman (Pauline) and Ted Hinchman; and many grandnieces and grandnephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Tommie and Annie Berry; beloved uncle, Duncan Pirie; brother, Douglas Berry; sister-in-law, Mary Berry; nephew, Thomas Berry; brother-in-law, Ted Hinchman; and niece, Nancy Hinchman.
In his career in human resources management, Sterling was widely respected by labor and administration alike. He retired in 1988, which allowed him to devote more time to his many passions. Chief among those was Great Lakes shipping and sharing his enthusiasm and expertise through his website, greatlakesvesselhistory.com; and affiliations with the Marine Historical Society of Detroit, which honored him with the Distinguished Service Award for 70 years of membership and service on its Advisory Council; Great Lakes Maritime Institute; Lake Superior Marine Museum Association; Dossin Great Lakes Museum; and Toronto Marine Historical Society.
With a song in his heart and a pitch pipe in his pocket, Sterling’s musical resume included choirmaster at St. Philip and St. Steven Episcopal Church; 48-year membership in the Society for Preservation and Encouragement of Barbershop Quartet Singing in America, also known as the Barbershop Harmony Society; Rackham Community Choir; Senior Men’s Club of Grosse Pointe Choir; director of the Good News Gospel Singers; St. Michael’s Episcopal Church Choir; American House Choir; and most special to him, founder and leader of the Berry Chorale. His participation in the Christ Church Chorale sparked a passion for travel as he performed throughout Europe nearly 20 years.
Sterling also was devoted to service to others. He always was ready with the greeting, “Hello, friend!” as he delivered Meals on Wheels 29 years. He also served at soup kitchens and together with his wife, Anne, advocated for public schools. In addition, he helped adults learn to read and volunteered as a docent at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum. Sterling’s family will hold a private memorial service. He will be laid to rest at Elmwood Cemetery in Detroit. Memorial contributions in Sterling’s name may be made to Harmony Foundation International, harmonyfoundation.org; the Chippewa County Historical Society ; or the Dossin Great Lakes Museum through the Detroit Historical Society website, detroithistorical.org. Arrangements are entrusted to Chas. Verheyden, Inc.
Name: Richard J. Deisler
Born: March 18, 1928
Died: December 8, 2020 (92)
MC Member: March 28, 2001 (19)
Beloved husband of Dottie(nee Jaco) for 55 years. Loving father of Rick (Pat) Deisler, John Deisler, Steve Deisler, Kristin (Logan) Pichel and Randy(Malo)Villareal. Also survived by 14 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. Dear brother of the late Bernie( Esther) Deisler and Louise (Bill) Merecki. Dick was a past Commander of the Grosse Pointe Power Squadron in 1982, a past President of the Grosse Pointe Crisis Club in 1989 and retired from General Motors after 42 years in 1986 working primarily in Marketing Research. There will be a Memorial Mass in the spring of 2021. Inurnment Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Michael Catholic Church 40501 Hayes Road, Sterling Heights, MI 48313. Share memories with the family at their “On-Line Guestbook” at WujekCalcaterra.com
Name: Joseph N. Impastato
Born: November 1, 1930
Died: September 22, 2020 (89)
MC Member: September 22, 2020 (89)
The Honorable Joseph N. Impastato of Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan born November 1, 1930 passed away peacefully on September 22, 2020 at the age of 89.
He is survived by his Loving wife of 56 years, Marian Alena and daughter-in-law, Kristin Marie and grandsons Joseph III and Jonathon Charles. Joseph was predeceased by his loving son, Joseph N. Impastato, II and his parents Kathryn and Vincenzo “Mr. Jim” Impastato and his brother, Savio Farrell Impastato.
He will be so missed by his Aunt Rose DiGaetano and cherished cousins Virginia Bauman (the late Daniel), Rosary and Larry Saynay and Rosary Iulianelli (the late Pete) and their Families.
Joseph leaves behind sisters and brothers-in-law: Dianna Santavicca (the late Joseph), Ronald and Judy Santavicca, Anna and Richard Warren and Gloria and Jason Hinz as well as many nieces and nephews from the Impastato and Santavicca Families.
A private service was held for The Judge on Monday, September 28, 2020 at St. Paul on the Lake Catholic Church in Grosse Pointe Farms
Name: Roland L. Olzark
Born: July 30, 1927
Died: December 28, 2020 (93)
MC Member: June 12, 2001 (19)
Family and Friends during this Christmas season, the Christ Child saw fit that the Honorable Roland Lawrence should take his place with the Shepherds and Wise Men at the Manger in the Stable. Roland passed away December 28th, 2020 at the young age of 93 and now is at Peace with the Baby Jesus. Roland (aka “ollie olzark”) will join his eight siblings, their spouses, and his parents (Michael and Anna) in heaven. Born in 1927 (same year as the Ford Model A), Roland was the baby brother of an amazing polish Detroit area family “The Owczarczaks”. Two of the Owczarczaks sisters married two Fekin brothers which created an incredible bond between the two families which will last for generations to come.
The description in Roland’s senior yearbook (1945) from Catholic Central read: dramatics, athletics, and studies all came under the title of “A Day’s work” to “Ollie”. He played the lead role in plays, was an honor student all four years, played on the varsity football team, and was a member of Fr. Martin’s All-Star CC Baseball Team. His love of baseball began the day he took his first steps. Roland spent time playing time in the minor leagues. He was inducted into the Catholic Central Athletic Hall of Fame in 2015. Roland continued his education at the University of Western Ontario, graduating in 1951 with a BA degree. He received his law degree from University of Detroit Law school Mercy in 1954. He passed the Michigan State bar exam that same year and began his practice of law. He also served as law clerk for Michigan Supreme Court Justice Harry F. Kelly (former governor of the State of Michigan). In 1970 he was appointed by Governor Milliken to become a Wayne County Circuit Court Judge. He retired from the bench in 1996 but remained active as a visiting Judge and conducted settlement conferences. Fun Fact – we had a parakeet that said “here come da judge” every time he came home from work.
Judge Olzark belonged to numerous organizations which included the Old Newsboys Goodfellows of Detroit – an organization whose sole mission is to ensure that there is No Kiddie without Christmas. He served as a member for 55 years and President in 1977. He also was President of the University of Detroit Mercy Law Alumni in 1977. President of both the Michigan Trail Judges and the Michigan Retired Judges Association. He was a member of the Polish Advocates Association; The Old Time Baseball Players; Knights of Columbus, DeLaSalle Council; Catholic Lawyers Association. He was a member of the Senior Men’s Club of Grosse Pointe. Judge Olzark had lifelong love of both boating and skiing. Winters were spent on the slopes of Boyne Mountain and summers on his Chris Craft cabin cruisers on Lake St Clair. During his retirement years, Judge Olzark enjoyed singing in the Choir and accompanying his wife, Halina, wherever she was cantoring. He often times said, “If you want her, you gotta take me too!”.
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Halina Olzark, and four children, Steven, Alexa, Maureen, and Elena. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren, Kirin, Sophia, Natalie, Brinn, Jackson, Claire, and Spencer. Life is not about the number of years we spend on this earth; it is about the dash in between those years. Judge Olzark’s dash was fulfilled with kindness, generosity, and accomplishments. His was a life well lived.
Name: George R. McMullan
Born: May 7, 1957
Died: December 29, 2020 (63)
MC Member: January 28, 2019 (1)
George was a Director of the Senior Men’s Club in 2019 – 2020. George Robert McMullen, Jr. died peacefully Tuesday, December 29 at his home in Grosse Pointe Woods, he was 63 years old. Despite being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer last February, he continued to live his life with characteristic grace, gratitude, courage, joy and humor.
George grew up in Grosse Pointe, attended Grosse Pointe South High School then Regis University in Denver, CO, graduating in 1979. George had a lifelong career in sales, the majority of which was with Avis Car Rental. After living briefly in the Boston and Washington D.C. areas he returned to Grosse Pointe where he developed a passion for the local community that became his life’s work. One of his greatest joys was serving as a Councilman for Grosse Pointe Woods. He was a familiar face at Council meetings in all five of the Grosse Pointes and Harper Woods and he attended almost all the Grosse Pointe Public School System Board meetings. He was a very proud member of the Grosse Pointe Rotary Club. He served on the boards of the Grosse Pointe Library Foundation, the Grosse Pointe Chamber of Commerce, Grosse Pointe Woods Board of Review, he was an Ambassador for the Family Center and was so pleased to be an usher at St. Paul on the Lake Catholic Church. He was actively involved with Grosse Pointe Theater, the League of Women Voters, The Helm, the Grosse Pointe Foundation for Public Education and the Grosse Pointe Historical Society among others. He reached across every aisle he encountered and was a member of the East Side Republicans, the Grosse Pointe Democratic Club and the Grosse Pointes & Harper Woods NAACP. The nonprofits with which he was involved are too numerous to mention. An acquaintance said of George’s community involvement “everywhere I looked in our community, there was George”.
George’s commitment to community continued when at his cottage in Pointe aux Barques, MI (PAB). He was a past Board member and ran the Gymkhana and annual softball game for more than 15 years. PAB was a part of him and when he was there, he never missed heading out to view the sunset.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Grosse Pointe Rotary Foundation – P.O. Box 36366 – Grosse Pointe Park, MI 48230, Full Circle Foundation – 17006 Mack Avenue, Grosse Pointe Park, MI 48230 or Grosse Pointe Theater – 315 Fisher Road – Grosse Pointe, MI 48230
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic there will be no service at this time. A celebration of George’s life will be arranged when it is safe to gather together again.
Name: Hubert J. Montpetit
Born: June 4, 1930
Died: December 23, 2020 (90)
MC Member: January 10, 2012 (8)
Hubert (Hugh) Montpetit, age 90, entered eternal life on December 23, 2020 at home surrounded by family, after a long illness (unrelated to COVID-19). A graduate of Assumption College Catholic High School in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. He worked at the Detroit Free Press as a stereotyper and then as an advertising sales representative. He owned and actively managed several apartment buildings for over 50 years.
He met his wife of 65 years when they were both members of the Third Order of St. Francis. His faith was essential in his life, as well as being a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He had a special devotion to Blessed Solanus Casey and St. Faustina (Divine Mercy).
He is survived by his four children: Dr. Gregory (Lisa), Michael (Susan), Anne Fulbright (Dr. Martin Sullivan), and John. Grandchildren Andrew, Megan, Maxwell, Renée, Michelle, Katie, James, Elizabeth, Vic, Evan, Joseph, and Jason, and three great-grandchildren. Also survived by his sister Carmen and many nieces and nephews. His wife Mary Ann died in November 2020. He will be missed by many.
Name: Hugh Allen “Butch” Davis
Born: May 3, 1940
Died: November 12, 2020 (80)
MC Member: August 4, 2014 (6)
Hugh Allen “Butch” Davis, age 80 of Rochester Hills, passed away November 12, 2020. Loving husband of the late Jeannette Davis, dear father of Deborah (Joseph) Fettue, the late Scott Davis, the late Michelle Davis, Linda (Robert) Viazanko, Hugh, Jr. (Michelle) Davis, the late Steven Davis and the late Gordon Davis. Cherished grandfather of Joseph (Rebecca), Melissa (Angelo), Amy (Salvatore), Amanda (Scott), Shannon (Rusty), Kourtney, Jeannette, Crystal, and John, great grandfather of Gianna, Cole, Helena, Angelina, Tenley, Brody, Salvatore, Delilah, Owen and Santino. Brother of John (Joan) Davis and Gail (Robert) Davidson. Hugh was an avid hunter and fisherman, loved his family, he was charming, kind, honorable, had integrity, loved his country, never met stranger.
Name: Frank A. Cairns
Born: November 11, 1927
Died: November 4, 2020 (92)
MC Member: May 16, 2003 (17)
Frank was born in Sandwich, Ontario, Canada, the son of John and Sarah (nee O’Connor) Cairns. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II from 1944 to 1945, and as a 1st Lt. during the Korean War from 1951 to 1953. He began his studies toward a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing at the University of Illinois in 1945, and completed his degree at the University of Detroit in 1950. Frank also earned an MBA from U of D in 1960. He was personnel director at Chrysler Corp. from 1964 to 1988. Frank and Therese Jaglois were married May 9, 1953, and together raised five children, Robert, Terry (Anne), Mary Pat, Michael (Rosemary) and Catherine (Aaron). Widowed in 2002, Frank thereafter met Geraldine Coughlin. Frank and Geri were married in 2005, in Florida.
Together they enjoyed traveling and spending time with friends. Frank is survived by his wife, Geraldine; four children; 12 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his son, Michael, in September; and siblings, John, Thomas, Patricia and JoAnne. A celebration of life gathering takes place at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, followed by the funeral Mass at noon at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, 467 Fairford, Grosse Pointe Woods. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Capuchin Soup Kitchen, cskdetroit.org
Name: Milton Henkel
Born: January 3, 1927
Died: November 1, 2020 (93)
MC Member: March 22, 1999 (21)
Milt was a lifelong resident of the Grosse Pointes. He was the son of Edward and Ruth Henkel and died at home with his devoted wife, Martha, at his side. Milt and his brother, Eddie, followed in their father’s footsteps and made their careers in commercial real estate at the firm their father founded. The brothers remained close, shared a partners’ desk and enjoyed their daily ritual lunch for decades at the Sign of the Beefcarver restaurant. Milt graduated high school from the Detroit University School in 1945. He attended Kenyon College and graduated from Michigan State University. He also served in the U.S. Navy. Milt was president of the American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers. He was a Lifetime member of the Country Club of Detroit, where he played paddle tennis and golf; he also rode horses at the Grosse Pointe Hunt Club around the corner. Milt married Julienne Chapman in 1955. They enjoyed 39 years together and raised three children. During annual vacations to Amelia Island, Milt and Julie pursued their shared passion for golf. They also traveled with their children to Hilton Head Island each year.
After Julie’s death, Milt was blessed to find love and companionship in his remaining years with his marriage to Martha Sattley, also an avid golfer. He and Martha were fortunate to spend 26 years together. Milt and Martha loved their annual vacations at Vero Beach, Fla. They often stopped in Charlottesville, Va., for more rounds of golf at the Farmington Country Club on their way back to Grosse Pointe. One of Milt’s favorite traditions was an annual trip to Pointe Aux Barques with a group of golfing buddies. The group formed a tournament, The Thumb Cup, that was a fun-filled competitive romp of 16 “boys.” Martha was totally committed to Milt throughout their marriage. They shared a delightful balance of humor and kindness. When Milt experienced health issues in his 90s, Martha organized and accompanied him on daily walks, pushing the small cart one lap around the Kroger store on Marter Road. As Milt’s health declined, he and Martha took daily drives past the horses at the Hunt Club, where they counted the horses, and to Windmill Pointe, where they counted the freighters. Milt’s family and many friends will miss this gentle man and are comforted by shared memories. Milt was predeceased by his parents and siblings, Edward Henkel, Jeanette DeHayes and Ruth Sherman. He is survived by his wife, Martha; children, Taylor Henkel (Terry), Kathleen Tweed (Scott) and Steven Henkel (Joan); six grandchildren; one great-grandchild; several nieces and nephews; and an abundance of friends. A private family service will take place at Elmwood Cemetery in Detroit. Memorial contributions may be made to The Cradle, 2049 Ridge Ave., Evanston, IL 60201; or the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 7312.
Name: Sterling E. Berry
Born: April 29, 1925
Died: October 13, 2020 (95)
MC Member: February 7, 1989 (31)
Sterling grew up in Grosse Pointe. His summers spent on the Lake St. Clair Flats, where he watched freighters go by, ignited his lifelong love of the Great Lakes and Great Lakes shipping. A 1943 graduate of Grosse Pointe High School, Sterling served in the U.S. Navy in World War II. He graduated from Northwestern University in 1950. Sterling married Anne Louise Hinchman in 1959, and shared 61 years with his beloved “Anniebelle.” Together they raised five daughters, Julia Berry, Ginna Ericksen (Matt), Martha Long, Barbara Pappas (William) and Melissa Hibdon (Terry). Sterling was the proud grandfather of Nick Ericksen, Melissa Ericksen Burns (Will), Andie Long, Peter Sterling Ericksen, Emily Ericksen Johnson (Alex), Stephanie Long, Theodore Sterling Pappas and Sterling Hibdon. He was honorary grandfather to Alejandro Lleras (Leah) and Mark Holley (Karen), and great-grandfather to their children, Maddie and Olivia Lleras and Charlotte Holley; beloved uncle of Ken Berry (Connie Nassios), Judith Garver (Patrick), Emma Meston (Jim), Sara Howell (Brad), Carolyn Gray (Dan), David Hinchman (Pauline) and Ted Hinchman; and many grandnieces and grandnephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Tommie and Annie Berry; beloved uncle, Duncan Pirie; brother, Douglas Berry; sister-in-law, Mary Berry; nephew, Thomas Berry; brother-in-law, Ted Hinchman; and niece, Nancy Hinchman.
In his career in human resources management, Sterling was widely respected by labor and administration alike. He retired in 1988, which allowed him to devote more time to his many passions. Chief among those was Great Lakes shipping and sharing his enthusiasm and expertise through his website, greatlakesvesselhistory.com; and affiliations with the Marine Historical Society of Detroit, which honored him with the Distinguished Service Award for 70 years of membership and service on its Advisory Council; Great Lakes Maritime Institute; Lake Superior Marine Museum Association; Dossin Great Lakes Museum; and Toronto Marine Historical Society.
With a song in his heart and a pitch pipe in his pocket, Sterling’s musical resume included choirmaster at St. Philip and St. Steven Episcopal Church; 48-year membership in the Society for Preservation and Encouragement of Barbershop Quartet Singing in America, also known as the Barbershop Harmony Society; Rackham Community Choir; Senior Men’s Club of Grosse Pointe Choir; director of the Good News Gospel Singers; St. Michael’s Episcopal Church Choir; American House Choir; and most special to him, founder and leader of the Berry Chorale. His participation in the Christ Church Chorale sparked a passion for travel as he performed throughout Europe nearly 20 years.
Sterling also was devoted to service to others. He always was ready with the greeting, “Hello, friend!” as he delivered Meals on Wheels 29 years. He also served at soup kitchens and together with his wife, Anne, advocated for public schools. In addition, he helped adults learn to read and volunteered as a docent at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum. Sterling’s family will hold a private memorial service. He will be laid to rest at Elmwood Cemetery in Detroit. Memorial contributions in Sterling’s name may be made to Harmony Foundation International, harmonyfoundation.org; the Chippewa County Historical Society ; or the Dossin Great Lakes Museum through the Detroit Historical Society website, detroithistorical.org. Arrangements are entrusted to Chas. Verheyden, Inc.
Name: David A. Beatty
Born: August 9, 1936
Died: October 24, 2020 (84)
MC Member: May 26, 1987 (33)
David was born in Grosse Pointe, to Melvin William Beatty and Audrey Louise Levillier. He was proud of his heritage as a direct descendant of Capt. John Martin and the French family who settled on the ribbon farms in Grosse Pointe. A graduate of Grosse Pointe South High School, David was in the co-op program at Chrysler Co. He retired from Chrysler in 1984.
David was a volunteer at many events and historical venues. He also was involved with the Chrysler travel group, Pentastar Travel. An active participant at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dexter, David often assisted at funeral luncheons for fellow parishioners. David was well-loved by his neighborhood community at Sugarloaf Lake in Chelsea, where his family owned a cottage more than 100 years and where he eventually retired.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Oct. 28, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Burial took place at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Detroit. Expressions of sympathy in David’s name may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 7870 4th St., Dexter, MI 48130. Arrangements are entrusted to Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea, mitchellfuneral.com.
Name: William “Bill” Rice
Born: July 15, 1929
Died: October 12, 2020 (91)
MC Member: June 12, 2018 (2)
Bill was the son of Thomas and Christina Rice of Detroit. He graduated from River Rouge High School, Michigan State University (where he was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha), and the Wayne State University College of Medicine.
Following an internship at Queen’s Hospital in Hawaii, he joined the U.S. Air Force as a Flight Surgeon and was stationed in the South Pacific. After his military service, he met his wife, Ginnie, a nurse, in San Francisco. Returning to Michigan for his residency, he was Board certified by the American College of Surgeons and went on to co-develop Lakeshore ENT—one of the largest ear, nose, and throat practices in the state.
Upon his retirement, Bill co-founded The Holley Institute with its services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and was its vice president and medical director. An avid tennis player, skier, runner, scuba diver, and photographer, he is survived by his wife of 58 years, sons Grantland and Garrett, grandchildren Taylor and Jackson, and more than two dozen nieces and nephews.
An outdoor service was held on the Trinity Terrace at the Grosse Pointe Memorial Church on Tuesday, October 27th at 12 Noon. Donations (in lieu of flowers) can be made to The Holley Institute, Boll Professional Building (Suite 223), 22151 Moross Road, Detroit, Michigan 48236.
Name: Christopher “Kit” Tennyson
Born: August 29,1947
Died: October 15, 2020 (73)
MC Member: November 14, 2018 (2)
Kit was born to Patsy and Harry Tennyson. A 1965 graduate of Grosse Pointe High School, Kit studied economics at Oakland University. Upon graduation from OU in 1969, he began his career at Tennyson Chevrolet, where he succeeded his father as president in 1983. Kit’s distinguished career in the automotive business spanned nearly 50 years, until he retired in 2017.
During this time, Kit was a respected leader in the Livonia business community, where he served on numerous charitable boards and spearheaded local economic initiatives. In Kit’s brief retirement years, he continued his passions — sailing on Lake St. Clair, bowling at the Detroit Athletic Club, jazz music education and leadership in many civic organizations, including the Detroit Rotary Club.
He also loved travel and particularly cherished his time in Muskoka, Ontario and France. An active member of Christ Church Grosse Pointe to the end, Kit twice served on the Vestry, including as senior warden. A devoted husband and father, his greatest love remained his family. He is survived by his wife, Emily Barrett Tennyson; daughters, Sara Orr (Topher), Chloe Houston (Peter) and Cecily Tennyson; and grandson, Barrett Orr.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Kit’s memory may be made to Christ Church Grosse Pointe, christchurchgp.org; or Oakland University, oakland.edu
Name: Wilson E. Holsinger
Born: November 5, 1923
Died: October 20, 2020 (96)
MC Member: October 6, 1992 (28)
Wilson was the beloved husband to the late Betty Holsinger from 1948 to 1991. Together they raised a wonderful son, Jay Holsinger. Wilson leaves behind 3 loving sisters and 2 brothers. A funeral service was held on Friday, October 23, 2020 at 10 AM at A.H. Peters Funeral.
Name: George E. Moulton
Born: June 4, 1926
Died: September 13, 2020 (94)
MC Member: July 9, 1996 (24)
George served the Men’s Club of Grosse Pointe as President (2003 – 2004), Officer, Director and Chairman of a Committee
George E. Moulton died on 13 September, 2020 of a stroke. George was a proud veteran of the Navy who fought in the Pacific on an aircraft carrier in World War II, a husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.
George is survived by his daughter Kathryn Wildermuth, son Bruce Moulton, and grandsons David Moulton, Lee Moulton and Kyle Moulton.
George also had two stepdaughters, Pam Montgomery and Karen Schmidt, and four step granddaughters, Kimberly Westlund, Leigh Montgomery, Jennifer Haskell and Erin Moretz.
George chose to be cremated and his remains have been laid to rest on his son’s property in Mecosta, Michigan. A private service was held at the burial site.
Name: Manny Moroun
Died: July 12, 2020
There was no obituary published.
Name: Joseph N. Impastato
Born: November 1, 1930
Died: September 22, 2020 (89)
MC Member: May 17, 1997 (12)
The Honorable Joseph N. Impastato of Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan born November 1, 1930 passed away peacefully on September 22, 2020 at the age of 89.
He is survived by his Loving wife of 56 years, Marian Alena and daughter-in-law, Kristin Marie and grandsons Joseph III and Jonathon Charles. Joseph was predeceased by his loving son, Joseph N. Impastato, II and his parents Kathryn and Vincenzo “Mr. Jim” Impastato and his brother, Savio Farrell Impastato.
He will be so missed by his Aunt Rose DiGaetano and cherished cousins Virginia Bauman (the late Daniel), Rosary and Larry Saynay and Rosary Iulianelli (the late Pete) and their Families.
Joseph leaves behind sisters and brothers-in-law: Dianna Santavicca (the late Joseph), Ronald and Judy Santavicca, Anna and Richard Warren and Gloria and Jason Hinz as well as many nieces and nephews from the Impastato and Santavicca Families.
A private service was held for The Judge on Monday, September 28, 2020 at St. Paul on the Lake Catholic Church in Grosse Pointe Farms
Name: Dan Kachadourian
Born: July 3, 1934
Died: August 31, 2020 (86)
MC Member: October 13, 2009 (10)
Dan died from complications of pneumonia at Select Specialty Hospital in Ascension St. John in Detroit. The son of Armenian immigrants who fled to the United States after the 1915 Armenian Genocide, Dan was born in Highland Park. As a boy, he fought to recover from polio in his leg, relearned to walk and went on to play and coach baseball worked at his parents’ Satisfactory Lunch restaurant — renamed J&M Bar in 1952 — which was located on Second Avenue, north of what is now the Davison Expressway. It was there he started his love for Detroiters and business, helping his family serve meals largely to factory workers from Ford Motor Co.’s Highland Park Assembly Plant. In 1960, Kachadourian, with his brother John, opened the Parkmont Party Store in downtown Detroit. He was proud to start his own Detroit business and purchase property in his beloved city.
Kachadourian studied at the Detroit College of Law, then turned his focus toward commercial real estate in 1972, when he opened Mr. Stadium Coin Laundry in Ann Arbor, near the University of Michigan’s “Big House.” His ad campaigns for Mr. Stadium became leKachadouriangendary in Ann Arbor, as did the laundromat’s maize and blue logo T-shirts, which became iconic among University of Michigan students and gained national attention in 2005, when Kevin Costner wore one in “The Upside of Anger.” The Detroit News voted Mr. Stadium Coin Laundry the Best Campus Laundromat – an honor of which Kachadourian was very proud, as he always strived to make his customers feel at home. He enjoyed getting to know them and was proud to see their loyalty.
The last 20 years, Kachadourian continued to expand his idea of creating a U of M football tailgate park in Mr. Stadium’s lot. For each home game, 75 vehicles full of Wolverine football fans continue to gather there for the camaraderie, cooking and community he created. Kachadourian, through his K&K Investment Co., later purchased and developed other pieces of commercial real estate in Washtenaw and Oakland counties and constructed one of the first homes built in Bloomfield Hills’ Wabeek neighborhood. In the 1990s, Kachadourian teamed with St. Andrew’s Hall developer Blair McGowan to form the West of Woodward coalition to combat the demolition of the J.L. Hudson’s building. A lover of Detroit architecture, he also was active in preserving Detroit’s Masonic Temple. Kachadourian was a past president of the Detroit Masonic Temple’s board of trustees, a 33rd degree Scottish Rite Mason and a Shriner. He worked to raise funds for the Shriners Hospitals helping children get specialty orthopedic care just like he needed as a child with polio. He also was active in promoting the Masonic program for dyslexic children. Proud of his Armenian heritage, Kachadourian was a member of the 100 Hyes organization, which raises money for Armenians who are becoming new U.S. citizens.
He also was a member of the Men’s Club of Grosse Pointe, Grosse Pointe Yacht Club, Huron River Club and The Windsor Club. He had a passion for golf, especially with his grandsons and cherished friends. Dan Kachadourian is survived by his wife of 55 years, Lillian; daughter, Gail Kachadourian Howe (Wes Howe); grandsons, Jack and Paul Howe; brothers, John Kachadourian (Pat) and Robert Kachadourian; nephews, Larry Kachadourian, David Kachadourian (Charise), Ara Kachadourian (Anahit) and Grant Gilezan (Krisztina); niece, Gay Tosch (Paul Tosch); and grandnieces, Charlotte Tosch, Holly Gilezan and Lauren Gilezan. A private funeral service was held at St. John Armenian Church in Southfield. He was buried at Woodlawn Cemetery in Detroit. A Celebration of Kachadourian’s life is planned for 2021.
Name: Thomas E. Lee M.D.
Born: October 18, 1931
Died: August 19, 2020 (88)
MC Member: March 2, 2005 (15).
Thomas Lee passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on August 19, 2020.
Beloved husband of Willie Copeland, and the late Mary Lou Lee. Precious father of Catherine Reardon {Timothy}, Colleen Lee, Michael Lee, and Sean Lee{Julie} Predeceased children are Brian Lee, Carrie Lee, and Thomas B.Lee.
Cherished grandchildren include Meaghan Allor{Joshua},Johnathan Lee, Brandon Lee, Sarah Lee, Patrick Reardon, and Nathan Lee. Great-grandson, Declan Allor. Pediatric medicine was his profession for over 40 years. He often said “…it was the best job in the world”.
His hobbies included wood working, stained glass, gardening, and music. His life’s’ passion were children, traveling, and sailing.
Tom was cremated, there will be a service in the future.
Name: Joseph H . Vaughn
Born: December 1, 1920
Died: August 18, 2020
MC Member: February 13, 1996 (24)
Joseph John Vaughn, 99, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 18, 2020, at Cranberry Park Assisted Living in St. Clair Shores.
Mr. Vaughn was born on December 1, 1920 in Detroit, Michigan, the second child of three siblings, to parents Joseph and Dorothy Vigliotti.
He grew up in Detroit, attending grade school and high school at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School and graduated from the University of Detroit as an Electrical Engineer.
While in the eighth grade at St. Charles, he met the love of his life, Frances Edna Baker, who he married in 1944 after receiving a blessing from Blessed Fr. Solanus Casey. Mr. and Mrs. Vaughn celebrated their 70th Wedding Anniversary in 2014 shortly before Frances passed away.
Joseph proudly served our country during World War II as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy. He was trained in the latest radar technology at Bowdoin College and MIT. He used his training to perform countermeasures on enemy radar.
Mr. Vaughn was an entrepreneur and innovator throughout his career. While working for Federal Industries he developed the radio-controlled garage door opener. He proceeded to buy the struggling business from Federal under the name Electronic Door, which later became Vemco Products with partners Charles Englehardt and Harold Miller. Together they developed and patented the first automatic parking lot, including ticket spitter technology coupled with an automatic gate operator. Vemco sold garage door and gate operators to service the post war housing boom until it was sold to Stanley Works in 1975. Joe went on to form Operator Specialty Company (OSCO) out of Casnovia, Michigan, serving the residential and commercial gate operator market across North America. Joe was instrumental in the development of numerous safety features for both door and gate operators. He received the DODA Distinguished Service Award in 1975 and was described as “the man who had the vision to adapt the technology that created the door and gate operator industry.”
Mr. Vaughn was a resident of the Grosse Pointes from 1957 until 2016. A devout Catholic, he was an early parishioner of Our Lady Star of the Sea and later of St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church. He was an avid golfer and lifetime member of Lochmoor Club. He was also a proud member of Lost Lake Woods Club, Grosse Pointe Senior Men’s and the Cardinal Club.
Mr. and Mrs. Vaughn raised six children, all of whom attended Catholic grade school, high school and college. Joseph is preceded in death by his wife Frances and sister Jeanette Vettraino. He is survived by his brother Richard Vigliotti and his children, Kathleen Hickel (Gerard) and Jacqueline O’Boyle (Paul) of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Marybeth Grosfield (Richard) of Harrison Township, Jeffery Vaughn (Patty Quayle Vaughn) and Thomas S. Vaughn (Patti Krausmann-Vaughn) of Grosse Pointe Woods; and James Vaughn (Ellen Mayer Vaughn) of Oakwood, Ohio.
He was a beloved Pampa to 22 grandchildren: Robert Aumer (Meredith), Meridith Markovitz (Eric), Kathryn Bachey (Jeffrey), Gerard Hickel (Maureen), Lauren Ferguson (James), Jacqueline Mueller (Luke), Ashley Lee (Matthew), Deirdra Wisniewski (John), Logan Franko (Brad), Richard Grosfield (Mary Ann), Gregory Grosfield (Jaclyn), Merrill Grosfield, Joseph Vaughn II (Lauren), Anne Marie Miller (Christopher), Julia Evans (Trefor), Catherine Gillman (Eric), Cecelia (Brian) Forinash, Patrick Vaughn, Audrey Vaughn, Mary Kate Vaughn, Bridget Vaughn and Elizabeth Vaughn, as well as, 41 great-grandchildren.
A funeral mass was celebrated at 10 am on Friday August 28, at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 22412 Overlake Drive, St. Clair Shores, MI 48080-2498 and can be viewed virtually at www.sjascs.org under St. Joan Live. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.ahpeters.com.
Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church or the Capuchin Mission Center, 1820 Mount Elliott Street, Detroit, Michigan 48207.
Name: Leland Gates
Born: August 16, 1923
Died: August 13, 2020 (96)
MC Member: August 10, 2010 (10)
Leland was a loving husband, father of three children and four stepchildren, and blessed as a grandfather and great-grandfather many times over. Born in Hartford, Conn., to Leland Clayton Gates and Beatrice Sherman Gates, Lee was raised on the family farm and educated in a one-room schoolhouse in Weatogue, Conn. He earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Connecticut-Storrs and served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. During his college years, Lee met Jane Wilhelmine Muus. Lee and Jane were married Aug. 18, 1944. Together they raised three children, Leland Clayton “Clay” Gates III, Martha and Patti.
Lee was a banker whose passion was leading, serving and growing the communities in which he worked and lived. When Lee moved to Ocean City, N.J., he joined Boardwalk National Bank in Atlantic City in charge of real estate lending. With his return to Connecticut, he served as president and chairman of South Norwalk Savings Bank in Norwalk from 1966 to 1988. Lee’s hobbies were investing, golf and travel; he was particularly interested in real estate. Together through their 58 years of marriage, Lee and Jane bought, built, often moved into and sold more than 25 properties in Connecticut, New Jersey, Florida, South Carolina and North Carolina.
Lee’s real estate connections again proved fortuitous after Jane’s death in 2002, in Punta Gorda, Fla. A broker friend wanted to introduce him to someone special. Lee’s “second act” thus began when he met Audrey Leverenz, a longtime resident of Punta Gorda Isles and Grosse Pointe Park. Audrey’s husband had passed away years earlier, after they had raised four children, John, Sue, Sally and Amy, all who had married and lived in Grosse Pointe Park with their families. Lee and Audrey were married Nov. 29, 2003, in Grosse Pointe Park. Lee loved the welcoming and warm embrace given to him by Audrey’s family. He got right in the swing of attending grandchildren’s athletic events, graduations, marriages and births and always cheered them on with his easy smile. Together Audrey and Lee hosted several family gatherings and vacations. Lee thoroughly enjoyed his 17 years of marriage to Audrey and times together with her family. He lived a rich, full and long life.
Lee was predeceased by his sisters, Barbara Shaw and Phyllis Backman. He is survived by his wife, Audrey, of Grosse Pointe Park; children, Leland Clayton Gates III of Punta Gorda, Fla., Martha Gates Lord of Fairfield, Conn., and Patricia Fabrizio of Deerfield Beach, Fla.; stepchildren, Dr. John Leverenz (Cathy), Susan Swegles (John), Sally Wittwer (David) and Amy Kish (Ken), all of Grosse Pointe Park; sister-in-law, Ann Ashworth (Norman) of Punta Gorda, Fla.; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations in Lee’s memory may be made to the Family and Consumer Sciences Education Fund #30860 of the University of Connecticut Foundation, payable to UCONN Foundation, Attn: Data Services, 2390 Alumni Dr., Unit 3206, Storrs, CT 06269; or Grosse Pointe Memorial Church, 16 Lakeshore Rd., Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236.
Name: John (Jack) H. Williams, M.D.
Born: June 20, 1927
Died: August 7, 2020 (93)
MC Member: January 25, 2000 (20)
Dr. John (Jack) Hyde Williams died on Friday, August 7, 2020, at the age of 93, following a brief illness. His family, friends and patients affectionately identified him as “Jack” or “Dr. Jack”. He will be remembered for his long years of service in both family and internal medicine to residents of Grosse Pointe and the greater east side of Detroit.
In both his professional and personal life, Jack Williams was known to be caring and attentive. Those who remembered Jack best regarded him as charming and thoughtful, with a healthy sense of humor.
The son of Clarence and Laura (nee Hyde) Williams, John was born in 1927 in Grosse Pointe. He was a graduate of Grosse Pointe High School and chose to follow the examples of his father, grandfather and great grandfather by pursuing a career in medicine.
In 1947, after two years of service in the U.S. Army Air Corps, Jack fully embarked on his studies at the University of Michigan, where he received a bachelor’s degree in Science in 1950. He went on to earn a medical degree at the U of M School of Medicine in 1954.
Later in 1954, he began his internship and residency in New Hampshire at the Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital, in association with Dartmouth Medical School. He completed his medical fellowship in Rhode Island at the Providence Lying-in Hospital.
Dr. Williams joined his father’s practice in 1957, providing care to patients in metropolitan Detroit. After the death of his father in 1964, Jack continued in private practice. In 1988, he joined the Henry Ford Medical Group and became one of the founding members of Pierson Clinic in Grosse Pointe Farms.
During his long and distinguished career in medicine, Dr. Williams served as President of Medical Staff at Cottage Hospital and Senior Physician at Henry Ford Hospital. He also served as a trustee on the boards of Cottage Hospital and the Eastern Region of Henry Ford Health System.
Jack Williams first met his future wife Elizabeth (Betty) Adams during a social function at the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club. They dated while attending the University of Michigan. Married in 1953, they raised daughters Susan, Martha and Elizabeth in their Grosse Pointe Woods home. The family became active members of Christ Church of Grosse Pointe, with Jack serving for a period on the board of the Vestry. Sadly, Betty Williams died in the winter of 1982.
Following a long period of mourning, Jack Williams found solace in the company of Norah Moncrieff Martin, a fellow parishioner at Christ Church, who had been previously married to Darwin D. Martin Jr. (deceased). In 1985, Jack and Norah married.
After more than four decades of service in the medical profession, Dr. Williams chose to retire in 1999. Jack was an avid reader with a deep enthusiasm for technology and photography. His cultural interests included the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and Grosse Pointe Theater. He was a member in good standing at the Grosse Pointe Seniors Men Club and Grosse Pointe Yacht Club. As an alumni member, Jack took an active interest in the University of Michigan and its football team, often attending home games in Ann Arbor.
With various members of his expanded family, Jack traveled extensively in the United States, along with faraway destinations like Great Britain, Europe, and China. He and his second wife Norah were particularly fond of vacations in the Caribbean during Michigan winters.
Beloved husband of Elizabeth (nee Adams) (deceased). Beloved brother of James (Anne) Williams. Beloved father of Susan (David) Chaklos, Martha Williams, Elizabeth (Mark) Lewis. Beloved grandfather of Kenneth Chaklos, Elizabeth “Betsy” Chaklos, Christine (Nick) Penhale, Laura (Chris) Craft, Michelle (Brian) Craft, Sgt. Ian McConnell, USMC (deceased), Margaret “Meg” (T.C.) Schellinger. Beloved great grandfather of Elizabeth ‘Lily’ Penhale, Lucas Penhale, Joshua Craft, Kaitlyn Craft, Maya Schellinger.
Beloved husband of Norah (nee Moncrieff Martin). Beloved stepfather of Darwin (Lori) Martin III, Christopher Martin, Dr. Michael (Meipo) Martin. Beloved grandfather of Bryan Martin, Dr. Kyle (Dr. Chelsea) Martin. Beloved great grandfather of Brandon Martin, Jaden Martin, Jessa Martin, Blake Martin, Imogen Martin, Peter Martin, Charlotte Martin.
Due to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, memorial services for Jack Williams will be determined at a future date. The committal of his ashes will be conducted by immediate family members in a private ceremony.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Dr. Williams can be made to the following: University of Michigan, Office of University Development, 3003 S. State St., Ann Arbor, MI 48109 – Attn: Medical school class of 1954 scholarship fund.
All Saints Fund of Christ Church of Grosse Pointe, 61 Grosse Pointe Blvd., Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236. Jack was a Director and Chairman of a Committee of the Men’s Club of Grosse Pointe.
Name: Robert A. Jogan
Born: July 28, 1945
Died: June 30, 2020 (74)
MC Member: March 13, 2007 (13)
Robert Allen Jogan, of Grosse Pointe Woods, passed away on June 30, 2020. Bob is survived by his wife of 50 years, Judith; daughter, Karen (friend, Ann); sons, Jeffrey (Stephanie) and Timothy (Colleen); seven grandchildren, who were the loves of his life, Brigit, Thomas, Riley, Jackson, Jeffrey, Dailey and Charlie; brothers, Frank and Jimmy (Cindy); sister-in-law, Loretta; and three nieces, Maria, Bethany and Christin. Bob was predeceased by his brother, Ron.
Bob loved God and his family, and never shied away from an honest day’s work. He lived his life in the service of others and was never happier than when he was surrounded by his wife and family.
Services will be held at St. Ambrose in Grosse Pointe Park on Monday, July 6. A gathering of friends and family will begin at 10:00 a.m. in the church with a recognition of Bob’s life delivered by loved ones at 10:30 a.m. The funeral mass will begin at 11:00 a.m.
Donations may be made to St. Ambrose St. Vincent de Paul, c/o St. Ambrose Parish 15020 Hampton St, Grosse Pointe Park, MI 48230.
Name: C. Frank Turpin
Born: December 26, 1927
Died: June 23, 2020 (92)
MC Member: March 14, 1989 (31)
Grosse Pointe resident Coryell Franklin “Frank” Turpin died Tuesday, June 23, 2020, at his home. A son of James Franklin Turpin and Alta Irene Turpin, Frank was born Dec. 26, 1927, in Detroit.
Frank is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 62 years, Roberta; children, Kevin Turpin (Val), Terri Turpin-Amato (Tony) and Scott Turpin (Karen); grandchildren, Jacob Turpin, Andrew Turpin, Zachary Turpin, Daniel Amato, Christina Amato and Katie Turpin; step-grandchildren, Jorge, Shane, Cody and Zachary; and a nephew, nieces and cousins. He was predeceased by his brother, James Colin Turpin, and step-grandchild, Clelia.
Frank graduated from Lakeview High School in St. Clair Shores. His studies at Albion College were interrupted by his military service in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Frank also served in the medical corps during the Korean War. He saved countless lives entrenched with the U.S. Marine Corps on the front lines in the mountains of Korea. After his military service, Frank continued his education at Ferris State University and earned a pharmacy degree.
Frank began his career working for drug stores. He later worked with physicians’ offices, hospitals and pharmacies throughout metropolitan Detroit as a representative for Eli Lilly and Co. A former Navy nurse, Frank proudly taught nurses proper protocol and techniques as part of his position.
Frank met his beloved wife, Roberta, on a blind date during his work as a pharmaceutical company representative. The couple had a loving marriage and raised a family. Frank’s family loved him and knew they could rely on him always, no matter the need — from moral support to wise advice to lending a helping hand in any situation.
In retirement, Frank and Roberta enjoyed traveling the world, camping and playing golf. They also actively volunteered in their community. His family recalls that Frank frequently said he had lived a beautiful life. Now, that life will be cherished, celebrated and missed.
Frank served a term as a Director of the Men’s Club.
Donations in Frank’s memory may be made to the Senior Men’s Club of Grosse Pointe, 32 Lakeshore Rd., Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236; The Helm, helmlife.org; or the Salvation Army.
Name: William H. Griffith, Sr
Born: February 6 , 1924
Died: June 16, 2020 (96)
MC Member: June 16, 2020 (96)
William Howard Griffith, Sr. of Grosse Pointe Farms, was born on February 5, 1924 in Saginaw, MI to Howard Dixon Griffith and Adelaide Griffith. He graduated from Grosse Pointe High School in 1942. He enlisted in the U. S. Navy and was accepted to the Naval V-12 Officers’ Training program at The University of Michigan, where he earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering. After his discharge from the Navy, he continued his education and graduated from The University of Michigan Law School. Bill met the love of his life, Connie Nester, in 1944 at the Ann Arbor train station and they were happily married for over 72 years.
He had a successful career as a Patent Attorney. Bill retired from Reising Ethington at the age of 83. He was a member of the Michigan Bar Association for 70 years and was a past President of the Michigan Patent Law Association. Bill enjoyed many close friendships throughout his life. He was a 50 year member of the Country Club of Detroit and a member of the Stuart Yacht and Country Club in Florida. He was athletic and a lifelong golf and tennis player.
Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Connie and his loving children Joan Drummy, Susan Royer (Chuck), Mary Fay Kattman (Michael), Tom Griffith (Liz) and daughter-in-law Debbie Griffith. He was a proud grandfather and leaves behind 10 grandchildren and several great grandchildren. He was pre-deceased by his son Bill Griffith, Jr. and son-in-law Larry Drummy. Bill was a kind and generous man who had a wonderful sense of humor. He treasured his many friends and loved his family above all else. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Red Cross or the charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted to A.H. Peters Funeral Home, Grosse PointeWoods.
Name: Herbert D. Levitt
Born: August 1, 1928
Died: May 18, 2020 (91)
MC Member: January 1, 2005 (15)
Herb Levitt was a husband, father, grandfather, newspaper reporter, court administrator, attorney, and comedian.
Born in Cleveland, Ohio, he moved to Detroit as a teen, and made the city his home. He served in the US Army during the Korean conflict and graduated from Wayne State University in 1950. He worked as a reporter and bureau chief for the Detroit Free Press and Detroit News from 1952 – 1962 before moving to Common Pleas Court as the Chief Administrative Officer. In 1971 he was appointed Region 1 State Supreme Court administrator and was also appointed as administrator of Detroit Traffic Court and Wayne County Circuit Court. Well-known in legal and governmental circles, he is credited with great improvements in the performance and accessibility of the Southeast Michigan courts.
In 1980 he used vacation time to work as the local liaison for the ABC News broadcast of the Republican Presidential Convention and had a similar role at the 1982 Inaugural Detroit Grand Prix.
After being told many times by judges that “you’re not a lawyer so you don’t understand” he started law school at age 53. Herb attended Detroit College of Law at night, and graduated and passed the bar in 1985, at which point he told the same judges “now I am a lawyer and I still don’t understand!”
Once at a meeting with Mayor Coleman Young, police and anti-crime officials making suggestions about fighting crime, Herb suggested that they could cut street crime in half by doubling the number of streets. The mayor was not amused.
Herb retired from the court system in 1992, going out at a bash attended by about 400 of his closest friends. He practiced law in “retirement” and specialized in criminal defense and juvenile law. He took great pride in mounting an actual defense of his clients instead of a quick plea bargain and in trying to do the most he could for the juveniles he represented.
Herb along with friends Ed Jacoby, Jim Ransom, and Joe Hartmann founded the Most Holy Trinity smelt fry in 1959, a charitable event benefitting the church school which still continues 60 years later.
He was a great and vocal supporter of civil rights and women’s rights and did his best to elevate everybody he knew, regardless of race or gender.
Herb was a loving grandfather and was a friend, supporter, and mentor to Samantha, Emma and James. He is survived by his wife Jacqueline, sons Michael and Daniel and their wives Colleen and Cristina, and his sister Rosalind Plantikow.
He will also be remembered with love by friends and family too numerous to mention. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
Name: H. Rollin Allen
Born: June 15 , 1927
Died: April 20, 2020 (92)
MC Member: March 10, 2009 (10)
William Listman passed on February 12, 2020 at the age of 81. Loving husband of the late Arlene. Beloved father of William (Stephanie), Jennifer (David) Barthel and Robert (Maryann). Dear grandfather of Jacqueline, Katherine and Stephen Listman; Connor and Lauren Barthel; Alexandria and Colin Listman. He was predeceased by his siblings, Shirley McLellan, George Listman and Jackie Listman. Visitation Friday 3-8 PM at A.H. Peters Funeral Home, 20705 Mack, Grosse Pointe Woods. Funeral service Saturday 10:00 AM. Interment Resurrection Cemetery. ahpeters.com
James “Jim” R. Lemen Jr., 89, peacefully passed away Sunday, Feb. 2, 2020, at Beechwood Manor in St. Clair Shores. Jim was born Jan. 11, 1931, in Detroit, to James and Cletis (nee Trost) Lemen.
Name: James R. Lemen, Jr.
Born: January 11 , 1931
Died: February 2, 2020 (89)
MC Member: August 26, 1999 (20)
Jim grew up in Grosse Pointe and graduated from Grosse Pointe South High School. In the years following graduation, Jim met the love of his life, Genevieve (nee Sadowski). The couple married in 1975.
Jim founded Interlake Products and became a successful manufacturer’s representative in the automotive industry. Jim was a devoted member of the Lions Club and Elks and a senior member of the Detroit Athletic Club for more than 40 years. He was an avid sportsman and enjoyed spending the summers fishing, hunting and boating. Jim loved to be by the water and was a longtime member of the Jefferson Yacht Club.
Jim was the loving husband of the late Genevieve; beloved brother of the late Sally E. Whitman; and dear uncle of Michael Faber (Cynthia), Lynda Head (Nelson), Wendy Stockley (Stephen), Richard Sadowski (Amy) and Scott Sadowski.
Visitation for Jim is from 10 a.m. until the start of the funeral service at noon Saturday, Feb. 15, at Chas. Verheyden Inc., 16300 Mack, Grosse Pointe Park, MI 48230.
Men's Club of Grosse Pointe 
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