Curt Gnepper

On May 18, 2023, beloved Papa Curtis Lee Gnepper, 77, passed peacefully in his Traverse City home surrounded by his loving family. Over the past 30 years, Curt battled multiple cancers, and did so with unbelievable, superhuman strength. Curt was born on November 27th, 1945, to Walter and Betty Gnepper (nee Hartley) in Sandusky, Ohio. Soon after, their strong farm family moved to Romeo, Michigan, where he spent a majority of his youth terrorizing the town. He enjoyed many a summer helping (or rather playing) on his uncle’s farm in Fremont, Ohio, with his aunt and uncle, both of whom he adored. After graduating from Romeo Senior High School, he eventually enlisted in the US Navy and was deployed to Guam on the USS Finch (DE-328). While on leave, Curt met the love of his life Diane (nee Pittenger) before marrying her a year later, on July 19th, 1969. Curt was honorably discharged in 1971, and shortly thereafter, the family moved to Almont, Michigan. It was there that their beloved children, Heath and Rebecca, were born. Curt served as President of the Almont Community Schools Board of Education for several years, where he had the honors of proudly presenting Heath and Rebecca their high school diplomas. Due to the state of his health, Curt sadly retired in 1995 from his position as manager of the Otsego County Road Commission, after previously holding a position as long-time manager of the Lapeer County Road Commission. After undergoing a bone marrow transplant, he had the fortune to spend many a year traveling with Diane, followed by several great years with his four grandchildren, whom he loved deeply and furiously. Though Curt’s health deteriorated through the years, he held strong to his love of life and his incredible spirit, both of which, along with his loving family, helped him to continue on despite his increasing difficulties. He had a contagious, booming laugh and a love of Pepsi, chips, and chocolate (particularly peanut M&Ms). He also particularly enjoyed creating handmade birthday, Christmas, and Easter cards for his family. Curt is survived by his loving wife, Diane; son, Heath (Andrea); daughter, Rebecca (Brandon); granddaughters Emily, Chloe, Sarah, and Lorelei, and sister Marlene (Jerry). He was predeceased by his daughter Leigh (d.1970). In lieu of flowers, donations in Curt’s name may be made to the Munson Healthcare Cowell Family Cancer Center. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Direct condolences to reynolds-jonkhoff.com

Curt Gnepper

November 27, 1945 - May 18, 2023