Richard P. Katke's Obituary
Mecosta Richard P. Katke, 80, of Mecosta, passed away Sunday, August 29, 2010 at his home on Round Lake. He was born April 7, 1930, in Lansing, the son of Raymond and Selma (Anderson) Katke, and graduated from Reed City High School. After high school, Dick served with the U. S. Navy. On September 4, 1948, he married Janet Bell in the Rodney Methodist Church. Shortly thereafter, Dick began his career with Michigan-Wisconsin (later ANR/Coastal) Pipeline, retiring as Area Manager after 37 years of service. In 1992, he and Janet moved to their place on Round Lake, where they have lived since. Dick was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Big Rapids. For many years, he was active with the Boy Scouts of America, and especially enjoyed taking the boys camping. He was also a former member of the Mecosta Lions Club. Dick is survived by his wife Janet; 2 daughters, Mary Katke-Gillum of Big Rapids, Sue McConnell of Kona, HI; 3 granddaughters, Michelle (Scott) Kolp of Pontiac, Angela (Kevin) Endres of Macomb Township, MacKenzie Gillum of Big Rapids; 3 great-grandchildren, Ryan, Courtney, and Austin; his sister Barbara (Dave) Waddell of Northport; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by their son Hal in 1988. Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, September 1, at the First United Methodist Church in Big Rapids, with Pastor Dean Prentiss officiating. Burial will follow in the Highland View Cemetery. Memorial contributions for the Alzheimers Association may be left at the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids, where Dicks family will greet friends today (Tuesday) from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., and after 10 a.m. tomorrow at the church. ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?
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