Norman Eugene Schmansky

TRAVERSE CITY – Norman E. Schmansky, age 85, of Traverse City, passed away on Monday, March 11, 2019 at the Munson Hospice House in the loving care of his family.

Norman was born on May 3, 1933 to Eugene and Beatrice (Shaw) Schmansky in Pontiac, MI. Norman grew up in Walled Lake. He attended Walled Lake high school and was on the track team. He was also active in Boy Scouts earning the rank of Eagle Scout. Following his high school graduation in 1951, Norman served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War. Norman was an Electronics Technician aboard the USS Gilmore. Norman was honorably discharged from the United States Navy in 1955.

Following his involvement in the United States Navy, Norman enrolled at Michigan State University where he received a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics. After graduation, Norman took a job in Marquette where he taught at Graveraet High School while enrolled at Northern Michigan University where he received his Master's Degree in Mathematics. After teaching in Marquette, Norman went on to teach in Lake Orion and Birmingham, retiring in 1986 from Birmingham schools.

Norman met Judith Ghastin at a church event in his hometown of Pontiac and in 1968 the two were married. In 1991 Norman and Judy made the move to Traverse City as Judy was offered a job which also brought them closer to her side of the family.

Norman enjoyed amateur radio, woodworking, and was very active in the Coast Guard Auxiliary, Knights of Columbus, American Legion Honor Guard, and remained involved with Boy Scouts of America throughout his life. Norman was an honest, humble man who was known to always be reliable. His actions spoke louder than words.

Norman is survived by his wife, Judith, daughters; Jeanette (Scott) Smith and Marie Schmansky, his sister, Beatrice (Laurence) Peyser and brother, John (Norma) Schmansky, grandson, Nathan Smith, and granddaughter, Emily Smith.
Norman was preceded in death by his parents and sisters Patricia (Joseph) Rehfus and Margaret (William) Pfhalert.

A visitation for Norman will be held from 5:00 – 8:00 pm on Tuesday, March 19, 2019 at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home with a scripture service beginning at 7:30 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 am on Wednesday, March 20, 2019 at St. Mary Hannah Catholic Church, 2912 West M-113, Kingsley, MI 49649, with a visitation beginning at 10:00 am. Father Gerald Okoli will officiate. A luncheon will be held in the church fellowship hall immediately following mass. Norman will be laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery in Traverse City.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial contributions be directed to; American Legion Honor Guard Post 35, 1231 Hastings Street, Traverse City, MI 49686 or Munson Hospice House, 450 Brook Street, Traverse City, MI 49684.