Marcel 'Gov' Carpenter

TRAVERSE CITY — Marcel Eugene "Gov" Carpenter, 87, of Traverse City, formerly of Elk Rapids, passed away Monday, April 2, 2012, at his home with his family by his side. Marcel was born Nov. 3, 1924, to the late James and Mabel (Hosmer) Carpenter in Antrim County. Marcel entered into marriage with the former Bonnie Russell on Oct. 28, 1950, in Elk Rapids. Marcel proudly served his country making a career of serving his country as a member of United States military. Marcel answered the call of duty during World War II enlisting with U.S. Navy as a machinist mate. Following the war, Marcel began his time with the U.S. Army Air Corps and eventually with the U.S. Air Force earning the rank of technical sergeant. In 1963, Marcel reached retirement only to serve with the reserves until 1973. He was decorated for his service in WWII, Korea and for his longevity as a dedicated veteran. Marcel could often be found traveling south for the winter months with his beloved wife, Bonnie, after ALL their children left the nest. In the spring they would return to Elk Rapids and could be found playing cards or dice or going out to dinner with dear Cousin Frank and Diane Russell. He also enjoyed spending time with his kids and all his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Marcel enjoyed spending time hanging out with his best friend and companion, his dog HoneyBun, doing puzzle book fill-ins and watching all the Nascar races. He also enjoyed going out to breakfast to visit with his friends at the Big Boy and then dinners and breakfast at his favorite diner, Randy's Diner. Marcel is survived by his loving family of six children, his daughter, Patricia Glandon and grandson, Jimmie Glandon; his son, Douglas Carpenter and grandson, Lee Carpenter; his daughter, Lydia (Jerry) Annis and grandchildren, Tonya (David) Primeau, Michael (Jodie) Annis, and Tina (Christopher) Blackwell; his son, Michael (Michelle) Carpenter and grandchildren, Nicholas and Taylor Carpenter; his daughter, Barbara (Tim) Bachi and grandchildren, Crystal, Devin Bachi, and stepson, Todd Phillips; and his son, Russell (Sue) Carpenter, and grandchildren Catherine, Jessica Carpenter and stepson, Kyle Bettley. He also is survived by 17 great-grandchildren; one brother, Marvin (Roleen) Carpenter; nephews and nieces and cousins; and his beloved best friend, HoneyBun. Marcel was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie, in 2007; his parents, James and Mabel Carpenter, and four brothers and their spouses, Archie and Doris; Everett and Ruth; Durwood and Mary; and Robert Carpenter. Per Marcel's wishes cremation has taken place and a memorial gathering with military honors will take place at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 14, at the AmVets Post 114, 410 Bridge St., Elk Rapids, MI 49629. Private graveside committal services will be held in Maple Grove Cemetery in Elk Rapids. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to the Cherryland Humane Society of Traverse City. Please share your thoughts with the family at Marcel's online guest book at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com The family is being served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.