1951 ~ 2024
LELAND - Elmer Benjamin Hohnke, 72, of Leland, Michigan, passed away on July 24, 2024, at Munson Medical Center surrounded by his loving family. Elmer was born on November 22, 1951, in Traverse City to Benjamin and Margaret (Schnehain) Hohnke.
Elmer attended Leland Public School, upon completion of kindergarten his teacher noted, he tested superior for readiness for first grade and felt confident he would find the work easy and enjoyable the following year. He was so earnest and sincere in all that he did. Elmer was a member of the Honor Society and graduated valedictorian of his class in 1970. He pursued his academics at the University of Michigan, where he attended the School of Natural Resources, graduating in 1974. Elmer was intelligent, but he was humble. In 1974, he returned to the Hohnke family farm to continue the family business. Elmer grew mainly cherries and apples during his farming career along with other crops such as asparagus, potatoes, and various garden vegetables. He took pride in his orchards and the fruit that he grew, he was a man of many talents.