George Christopher Comden

George Christopher Comden, 92, passed away May 23, 2026, at Autumn House Assisted Living in Williamsburg.

George was born in Lansing to Carl F. and Marguerite (Weinert) Comden. For decades, he proudly announced his birthdate as “01, 01, 1934” whenever asked. He had no siblings but enjoyed the company of cousins and friends as a youth. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith prior to the family’s move to Acme Township in 1948, a place he would come to revere as “home” for decades to follow.

George understood the value of education and hard work. At a young age, he helped his dad in the service station, pumping gas and washing windows, listening to the adults discuss politics, people and sports. When his dad owned Comden Hardware in Acme, George learned his way around tools and amassed quite a collection over the years.

He loved music, especially jazz and big bands, and he played the coronet in several school bands throughout junior and senior high school. He graduated from Traverse City Central High School, Class of 1951. He was proud to be a member of the inaugural class of Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) and one of the original 23 graduates in 1953; George was the last surviving member of his class. Being tall, a natural leader, and determined to start up NMC’s first basketball team, he personally petitioned Dr. Glenn Loomis who agreed to hire a coach. From those early days until his passing, George was an unwavering supporter of NMC.

He served honorably with the U.S. Army 587th Engineer Co. (Field Maintenance) at Hanau, West Germany. While in the Army, he toured all over Europe via train on his military ID. Upon his return to the U.S., George completed his education under the GI Bill. He graduated from Central Michigan University (CMU) in 1960 with a Bachelor’s degree in Teaching, minoring in History and Geography, followed by a Master’s degree in Secondary School Administration in 1961.

His lifelong career in education began with four public school systems in Michigan (Trenton, Alba, Benzie Central, and Dowagiac) where he served as a business teacher, principal, coach, athletic director, assistant superintendent and superintendent. He enjoyed instilling his love for learning, good sportsmanship, and civic-mindedness in his students. He credited his CMU Placement Director with helping pave his way along each step of his career. In his final role, George served for 21 years as Director of Administrative Services at Oakland Community College.

In 1992, he retired to his beloved Acme. He was a good neighbor to all, often plowing out driveways in his pride and joy John Deere cab tractor.

George was honored as an NMC Fellow in 2001, recognizing his dedication to his alma mater. He established multiple scholarships at both NMC and CMU, providing incentive and financial support to many students starting or advancing their education.

George married Mary C. Hargrave of Waterford, MI in 1973; they divorced in 1989.

George was preceded in death by his mother (1954) and father (1974) and a cousin, Leonora Werner. He is survived by cousins Phillip (Debra) Comden of Stanton, MI and Susan Dewey of Newago, MI; goddaughter Shelley M. Duke of Traverse City; and a multitude of friends, former business associates and community members.

Never wishing to have the spotlight shone on him, and in accordance with his wishes, cremation took place and no formal services were held. A private graveside farewell will take place on September 21st at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens. Thanks to Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services for handling the arrangements.

Gratitude is extended to the staff at Autumn House Assisted Living, Orchard Creek Skilled Nursing, NPalliative Care, Great Lakes Home Health, and Bayside Wellness and Hospice for their devoted care of George during his last two years. Additional thanks go to the many Munson Healthcare physicians, PA’s and nurses who treated George.

George will be remembered fondly by all those fortunate to know him. Many recall his kindness and generosity as well as his ability to converse with anyone. He was well-read and well-versed in a myriad of subjects: history, government/politics, tools/hardware, trains, airplanes and vehicles of all kinds.

Throughout his life, many knew George as “a good man.” Indeed, he was, and may all remember him so.