Frank William Pfeifer, 92, of Glen Arbor, passed away Sunday, July 28, 2024, at his home with his family by his side.
Frank was born February 7, 1932, in Toledo, Ohio, the son of Frank Pfeifer Sr. and Hedwig Theresa Hutter. On August 13, 1955, he married the love of his life, Marie L.
Anderson, in Rankin, Michigan. They were blessed with two children, Frank Alan in 1959 and Dana Lynn in 1962.
Frank was drafted during the Korean conflict in 1952. He served 2 years in the regular Army and then was sent to Germany with the occupation forces, returning home to serve another 4 years in the reserves.
Frank worked as a Wood Patternmaker and Model Maker for 41 years at Buick Engineering in Flint, Michigan. He retired in 1991 and moved to Glen Lake with his wife, Marie, where they built their permanent home. They loved entertaining friends and family and appreciated all aspects of “Lake Life.”
Frank was an avid pilot, owning two fullscale airplanes. Frank was a member of the Traverse City R.C. Sailplane Club (LIFT) where he built and flew many sailplanes. He was also a member of the AMA-AOPA. He was active in the Glen Lake Association and served on the Glen Arbor Fire Advisory Board as well as the Glen Arbor Township Board of Appeals for many years. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Flint, Michigan.
Frank is survived by his wife of almost 69 years, Marie, his son Frank (Linda) Pfeifer, his daughter Dr. Dana Leary-Jokerst (Dr. James Jokerst); his grandchildren: Stephanie (Samuel) Kasik, Ryan Pfeifer, Jimmy and Ian Jokerst; his great grandchildren: Maddox and Harper Kasik; special nieces: Diane Centek and Darla Wynn and special nephew: Jeffrey Wynn.
Frank was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Elizabeth Ann Wynn.
Frank was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was fastidious about caring for his home, cars and boats. He was a fabulous story-teller, had an infectious laugh and was the life of the party. He will be missed greatly by his family and friends.
A Celebration of Life is being planned and will be forthcoming.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Glen Arbor Fire and Rescue.
Beacon Cremation and Funeral Service, Covell-Traverse City Chapel, is in charge of the arrangements. www.beaconfh.com
