Francis J. Fasel

TRAVERSE CITY — Francis Joseph Fasel, 86, lifelong resident of the Traverse City area, passed away Tuesday, March 22, 2011, at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. Francis Joseph Fasel was born on Oct. 12, 1924, to the late Matthew and Anna (Bushamp) Fasel, at the family farm located in Hannah. Fritz answered the call of duty, serving his country as a member of the United States Army as a Staff Sergeant during World War II.On Sept. 14, 1946, Fritz entered into marriage with the former Louise May Roush, who preceded him in death in 1994.Returning home, Fritz began a long and impressive working career. Initially with the Parson Corp., spanning 20 years making helicopter blades, and then welding with JP Manufacturing/Tower Automotive for 37 years, he retired at the age of 82 in 2008.Fritz had a tenacious work ethic, good sense of humor and lovable character admired by many. Fritz could often be found in recent years mowing his lawn on his tractor and tending to his garden, being sure they were in immaculate condition. He enjoyed hunting for rabbit and deer, and watching the Detroit Tigers, Red Wings and Lions games. If one of those games were on, you didn't bother him. Fritz was always one to be behind the wheel of a Ford and did not have much tolerance for those other car manufacturers. He had a special nature about him that people enjoyed being around, from playing cards to watching a good movie. Fritz was a proud father, grandfather and great-grandfather, leaving a lasting legacy.Fritz is survived by his loving family of four sons, Joseph (Marion) Fasel, Terry (Linda) Fasel, Ron (Pam) Fasel and Fred (Soni) Fasel, all of Traverse City; his daughter, Nancy (Larry) Street, of Williamsburg; 11 grandchildren, Loretta, Sheila, Doug, Ron II, Joe Jr., Lisa, Ronda, Aaron, Ryan and Justin; 16 great-grandchildren; his sister, Christine Whipp; a brother, John (Anita) Fasel; as well as many other loving family members and friends.Fritz was preceded in death by his wife, Louise May Fasel; his parents; a brother, Lawrence Fasel; two sisters, Evelyn King and Theresa Berry; his granddaughter, Teri Lynn (Fasel) Porter; and his great-grandson, Matthew Joseph Ulatowski. Funeral services will take place at 10 a.m. today, March 24, at St. Mary's of Hannah Catholic Church, with the Rev. Michael Conner officiating. Graveside committal services with military honors will be held at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens in Traverse City. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Grand Traverse County Commission on Aging. Please share thoughts with the family at Fritz's' online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.