LAKE LEELANAU - It is with great sadness that the family of Jeffrey “Jeff ” G. Haenlein announces his passing on February 20th after a brief but fierce battle with a rare and aggressive cancer. He passed peacefully at home, surrounded by family, in the comfort of familiar walls and love.

Jeff was born on June 6, 1951, and spent his school years in Saginaw where he formed lifelong friendships with four close classmate who proudly called themselves “The Four Amigos”. Over the years, two remained, bound by decades of shared memories and loyalty.

After high school Jeff became a ski instructor at Apple Mountain where his love of skiing began a lifelong passion that took him to many mountains. He eventually found his home at Sugarloaf, where he spent many years instructing and racing. It was there, over breakfast served by a waitress one special morning, that Jeff met Karen- beginning a partnership and love story that would span more than 50 years.

In the 1980s Jeff followed in his father’s footsteps and entered the residential building and remodeling trade. Over 37 years as Haenlein Builders, he and his wife-the VP of ops, built not only beautiful homes, but also an exceptional team of highly skilled craftsmen. Jeff was the maestro- guiding each project with precision, pride, and an uncompromising commitment to quality. The homes he built stand as a lasting legacy of his craftsmanship and care.

Jeff will be deeply missed for his oneof- a-kind laugh, quick wit, strong work ethic, and stubborn determination. Above all, he will be remembered as the beloved patriarch of his family. His life was rich with memories- traveling with friends to NASCAR races, boating adventures to the North Channel, deer hunting with family, and his enduring love of skiing, camaraderie, and competition.

Jeff is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Karen; his children, Jeffrey C. Haenlein (Krista Brock), and Hillary B. Haenlein (Matt Duncan); and his cherished grandchildren, Alexis, Mariah, and Landon Haenlein, and Huxley and Ellis Duncan. He is also survived by many relatives and friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.

He was preceded in death by a daughter at birth, Brooke Alissa; his parents, Willard and Doris Haenlein; and his in-laws, Donald and Marian Clark.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Hospice of Michigan team and AdvisaCare for their extraordinary compassion and support, and for helping keep Jeff comfortable during his final two weeks of his life.

Jeff’s legacy lives on in the family he loved, the friendships he treasured, and the homes and lives he helped build.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jeff’s memory may be directed to Habitat for Humanity PO Box 15412 Traverse City, MI 49696 and/or The Leelanau Christian Neighbors PO Box 196 Lake Leelanau, MI 49653.

A private service will be held for the family. Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of his life at the V.I Grill on his 75th birthday, June 6th, 2026. The time will be announced at a late date.

Please share condolences and memories with Jeff ’s family at www.martinson.info. Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.