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.
On February 17, 1979, at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Gills Pier, he married Christine C. Larson, who survives. Elmer enjoyed doing word puzzles and jumbles, watching Jeopardy and recently the WNBA, go Caitlin! He had many witty dad jokes. He enjoyed watching Bob Ross on TV and even had his own Bob Ross paint set. He also loved animals, having had many pets throughout his life. Elmer also enjoyed traveling with his family when he was able to get away from the farm during the off season.
Elmer is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Christine; his son Ethan Hohnke; and his siblings George Hohnke, Alan Hohnke, and Douglas (Eva Brown) Hohnke.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Gordon Hohnke.
The family wants to thank the Munson dialysis staff for the excellent care and treatment they gave Elmer while he was a patient there.
The memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 3rd, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Good Harbor with the Family greeting friends at 10:00 a.m. Pastor Mark C. Reinsch will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Elmer’s memory may be directed to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 2943 S. Manitou Trail, Cedar, MI 49621 or the Cherryland Humane Society, 750 Ahlberg Rd, Traverse City, MI 49696.
Please share condolences and memories with Elmer’s family at www.martinson.info. Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.
