Elmer Schmuckal

TRAVERSE CITY — Elmer A. Schmuckal, 94, of Traverse City, formerly of Hannah, died Saturday afternoon, March 19, 2011, at Munson Medical Center. Born May 22, 1916, in Hannah, he was the son of the late Charles and Frances (Tarchinski) Schmuckal.On June 1, 1938, at St, Mary's of Hannah Catholic Church, he married the former Rose Marie Ockert, who died on May 26, 2010. They were blessed with nearly 72 loving years together. Elmer was a longtime member of St. Mary's of Hannah Catholic Church and a present member of St. Patrick Catholic Church.A retired dairy farmer, Elmer and Rose owned a farm north of Hannah, which is currently Schmuckal Tree Farm. He had strong work ethics and thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of farming.Elmer formerly served as Chairman of the Board of the Soil Conservation District and participated in many other farm related associations.During his retirement years, the Schmuckals enjoyed their summer home on Duck Lake, where they would be often seen taking pontoon rides and hosting family gatherings. Traveling was a big part of their lives, as they journeyed to 49 states and greater parts of Europe.As his interests, Elmer relished playing set-back and a good game of euchre. Elmer is survived by his children, Richard Schmuckal, of Suttons Bay, James Schmuckal, of Traverse City, Joy Schmuckal, of Traverse City, Michael (Debra) Schmuckal, of Pueblo, Colo., and Julie Kalchik, of McHenry, Ill.; daughter-in-law, Bonnie Schmuckal, of Kingsley; 13 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; one brother, Arthur Schmuckal, of Traverse City; along with numerous nieces and nephews.In addition to his wife, Elmer was preceded in death by his son, Charles Schmuckal; grandson, Christopher Kalchik; brothers and sisters-in law, John (Vick) Schmuckal, Ralph (Pat) Schmuckal, Armond (Eleanor) Schmuckal, Mary (Charles) Rhodes, Madelyn (Max) Lighthiser and Mary Schmuckal.Friends may call at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home on Thursday, March 24, 2011, from 5 to 8 p.m., with a scripture service at 7:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at St. Patrick Catholic Church on Friday, March 25, 2011, at 11 a.m., with the Rev. Patrick Murphy serving as the celebrant. Inurnment will follow at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in Hannah. In remembrance of Elmer, memorial contributions may be directed to the Father Fred Foundation, Mass Intentions or to St. Mary's School in Hannah. Envelopes may be obtained either at the funeral home or church.The Schmuckal Family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Orchard Creek and Bay Ridge for the wonderful care given to Elmer.Kindly share your memories with the family on their online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.