Gary Frederick Weitzel

Gary Frederick Weitzel Bay City, Michigan June 23, 1941 to July, 24, 2015 On the 24th of July 2015, Gary Weitzel passed away peacefully after a four year battle with Cancer. He was attended and comforted by Hospice staff, his soul mate and lifetime partner, Sue Weitzel, daughter Lisa, son Brian, and other family members. Gary was 74 years old. Although born in Au Gres, Michigan, Gary spent the majority of his years in Bay City, Michigan. Gary is preceded in death by his son, Rick Weitzel, parents, Wanda and (Stepfather) Stanley Izykowski, and father, Elmer Weitzel (KIA, 1945,WWII). Mr. Weitzel is survived by his loving mate, Sue Weitzel of Bay City, daughter, Lisa (John) Cotter of Pinconning and son, Brian Weitzel of Key West, FL, grandsons, John Jr. "Boomer" Cotter, Rick Cotter. In addition, he is survived by siblings, Karen "Sissy" Skrzypczak of Bay City, Kathy (Izykowski ) Lanza of Bay City, Mary (Gerry) King of Englewood, FL, Doris (Tim) Pipkens of Holt, MI, Stan Izykowski of Essexville, Al (JoAnn) Izykowski of Bay City, and many loving nieces, nephews and cousins. Gary was honorably discharged from the United States Army after serving three years active duty in the states, from 1959 to 1961. Gary was an excellent marksman and was awarded many ribbons and medals of achievement for his competitive shooting skills. Included is the Bronze Rifleman Badge, one of the most prestigious competitive shooting awards one can earn in the Army. Gary enjoyed the outdoors and loved fishing with son-in-law John and friends and hunting with his brother-in-law, Ron. In his younger years Gary became an accomplished clarinet player and enjoyed getting together in a local band with his buddies to play lively polish music. Gary learned to work on automobiles early in life and was an accomplished auto mechanic, having several related jobs. Family and friends agree that Gary was a great story teller. He will be missed dearly by family and friends, and his storytelling will be remembered by all who knew him. Members of the Bay County Veterans Council and the United States Army will Conduct Military Honors Wednesday July 29, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at the Gephart Funeral Home, Inc. At Gary's request cremation has taken place. The family will gather at the funeral home on Wednesday from 9:45 a.m. until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider a memorial to the Wishes of the Family or the Wounded Warrior Project.