Theodore Damerow

TRAVERSE CITY — Ted Damerow, 85, of Traverse City, died Oct. 2, 2011, at his home, in answer to his prayers.Ted was born June 8, 1926, in Detroit, to the late Arthur and Louise (Schinnerer) Damerow. On Oct. 16, 1948, at Peace Lutheran Church in Detroit, Pastor Enno G. Claus united Ted and the former Wilma Steckley in marriage. Together they have shared 62 years.Ted answered the call of duty and was a member of the United States Air Corps. He was a true man bred of the war years. His first and foremost thought was to provide for his family.After his time in the service, Ted began working for the Detroit News selling advertising. He then pursued a career with the North East Detroiter before opening up his own book store in Royal Oak. Later he owned and operated Pontiac Graphics before moving to the Traverse City Area in 1976. While in Traverse City he worked as a land developer and was able to provide affordable housing to countless families in the area.Ted was a devout member of Trinity Lutheran Church and was instrumental in its expansion in 1988. In his spare time he enjoyed watching the Michigan Wolverines and Spartans, and the Detroit Tigers and Lions.He was a dear and loving husband, father and grandfather. His love for his children was amplified only by his love for his grandchildren.Ted was preceded in death by his sister, Edith Repp; son-in-law, John Stier; and infant grandson, Mac Comstock.Ted is survived by his wife, Wilma; his children, Laura Damerow, of San Rafael, Calif., Mark (Cindy) Damerow, of Traverse City, Carol Stier, of Traverse City, and Becky (Casey) Comstock, of Traverse City; grandchildren, Adam (Amber) Damerow, Ryan Damerow, Kati Damerow, Erin Stier, Elissa (Andy) Davenport, Emili Stier, Andrew Stier and Sam, Ian and Hayden Comstock; and great-grandson, Landen Davenport.A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 4, with visitation one hour prior, at Trinity Lutheran Church. Graveside services will take place at a later date.In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Trinity Lutheran Church and School.Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your thoughts and memories with the family.The family is being served by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Theodore Damerow

October 2, 2011