Milton Robert Jacobi

Milton “Milt” Robert Jacobi, 91, of Traverse City, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2026, at Meadow Valley Senior Living. 

Milt was born on February 3, 1935, in Marine City, Michigan, to the late Milton Henry and Genevieve Maybelle (Houghton) Jacobi. He attended Dearborn Public Schools from kindergarten through 12th grade, graduating in 1953. He went on to attend Eastern Michigan University on a track scholarship before earning his bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University in 1957. He later continued his education at Eastern Michigan University, where he obtained a master’s and specialist degree in Education. Milt was also a proud member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon. On August 17, 1957, he married the love of his life, Karen Kay Overbeck. Together, they raised two daughters (Jan and Barbara) in Dearborn, Michigan and built a life centered on family, education, and community. Milt lived a wonderful life with his wife and partner, Karen, next to him every step of the way. Their devotion to each other was an inspiration to everyone who knew them. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Milt dedicated his career to education, serving as a teacher and principal in Highland Park, Michigan for 10 years before continuing his career in Northville for 25 years. Throughout his tenure, he had the honor of opening three new schools. He had a deep love for working with children and put the “pal” in “Principal”. Milt continued to support and mentor other educators even into his retirement. After retiring, Milt and Karen made their permanent home on Skegemog Point Road, Elk Lake, a place that brought them many years of joy and cherished memories. They later moved to the Port of Old Mission on the Peninsula where they formed lasting friendships within their community. A lifelong volunteer, Milt gave generously of his time and talents. He was a member and leader of the Kiwanis Golden K Club, the Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel (Grand Traverse Chapter), the Traverse City Golf and Country Club and the Presbyterian Church of Traverse City. He contributed to numerous local organizations, including serving on the first board of the Great Lakes Children’s Museum as well as supporting the Visitors Center and the Boys & Girls Club. Milt had a lifelong love of outdoor activities including: racing hydroplanes in his youth, sailing, skiing, tennis and running. He was a self-described “gym rat,” a talented photographer, and had a passion for gardening, model trains, golfing, socializing with friends and self-improvement. He lived by the creed: Nothing to it, but to do it. And as his family recalls: Get tough with it! (usually referring to moving heavy or awkward things from Dad’s detailed “work lists”). Milt was an avid fan of Michigan State University, the University of Michigan and the Detroit Tigers. He loved planning and executing fun and special events- especially for Karen’s birthdays, family reunions, anniversaries- with “mystery trips”, and scavenger hunts.

Milt had a big, energetic personality with a mind that was always working. He tried to make the earth a better place—often with a twinkle in his eye. He will be missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen, their daughters, Jan (Bill) Lambert and Barbara (Brian) Maynard, grandchildren: Kathryn (Tim) Schroeter, Molly (Albaro) Escalera, Allie Maynard, Sarah Lambert and Sam Lambert; great-grandchildren: Estrella and James. Sister-in-law, Jean Jacobi, brother-in-law, Richard Wagner, along with several nieces and nephews. Also extended family members, caregivers and dear friends. Milt was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Jaclyn (and her husband, Bob) Madigan, brother, Stephen Jacobi, sister-in-law: Susan Wagner, and many other loving family members and friends.

A memorial celebration in Milt’s honor will be held Saturday, September 26 at the Presbyterian Church in Traverse City. Details to follow. Memorial contributions may be directed to a charity of one’s choice. Kindly share thoughts and memories with his family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com (http://www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com/).