George Paul Zemke (aka Papa), age 86 of Clare passed away on Sunday, June 9, 2024 in Midland Hospital surrounded by family. He was born to George H. and Eva (Rogan) Zemke on February 22, 1938 in Glenwood Minnesota. He attended Luther College in Decorah, Iowa and continued his education at Eastern Michigan University. He retired from Ford Motor Company where he spent most of his career.
He is predeceased by his father George and mother Eva, brother Arlen, his wife of 57 years Lynn Zemke (Nana) and son Keith. George is survived by his daughters Kristin Fuller and Julie Durkin. He is also survived by his grandchildren Sondra, Andrew, Joshua, Paul and Matthew, 2 great-grandsons Duncan and Tucker, nephew Tom and niece Janis.
He was a very active member at Clare Church of the Nazarene, where he met and married Hazel Wilson on May 15, 2021. They had three wonderful years together.
He was the unofficial photographer for the church directory among many other means of service there. Papa enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He was an active HAM radio operator. He had many other hobbies over the years such as woodworking, personalizing mugs and t-shirts, working in the yard, music and the arts and keeping up with the latest tech.
A gathering in honor of his life will take place at Clare Church of the Nazarene on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. with a service at 12:00 p.m. and luncheon immediately following. In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be made to Clare Church of the Nazarene. Arrangements were handled by the Clare Chapel of Stephenson-Wyman Funeral Home. On-line condolences may be left at www.stephenson-wyman.com
