We are heartbroken to share the sudden passing of our father, Michael Chester Szymczak, on Jan. 18, 2024. He was a loving father, Jaja (grandfather), brother, son, and friend. Words cannot express how much he will be missed by his family and all who were close to him.
Michael was born in 1949 in Bay City, Michigan to Chester and Helena (Gerhardt) Szymczak. He married Linda Lange in 1972. They remained married for over 28 years and friends thereafter. He is survived by his three children: Todd Szymczak; Adam (Gina) Szymczak and their children Parker and Owen; Emily (Steve) Smock and their children Hunter, Lucas, Greyson and Violet; Linda Lange Bowling; Siblings: Margaret (Alan) Jarvie, Mary Joan (John) Truetken, Marty (Susan) Szymczak, Mark (Michelle) Szymczak; and many nieces and nephews.
Michael was preceded in death by his parents and Nicholas Jarvie.
Michael was a proud Pinconning High School (class of 1966) graduate and Michigan State University (class of 1970) Spartan.
When thinking of his passing, please text a loved one a funny meme to bring them a smile as he did for us almost daily; when you go to the movies, ask for extra butter on your popcorn and insist on Coke (no Pepsi); at your next family get together, plan a funny outfit or a practical joke; take the time to volunteer at a local school; help your neighbor with their leaves and snow; or strike up a conversation with a stranger to brighten their day as he often did.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 16, in Utica, MI. Friends may contact a family member for details.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Heinz C. Prechter Bipolar Research Program at victors.us/michaelchesterszymczak. Michael was a proud participant in their longitudinal study for the past six years.