Gary Lee Cronkhite Sr.

Gary Lee Cronkhite Sr., of Manton, passed away on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at his home with family by his side. He was 78.

Gary was born on February 11, 1946 in Cadillac, Michigan to Samuel and Claudia Bell (Houghton) Cronkhite. He proudly answered the call of duty, serving in the United States Navy during the Vietnam era on the USS Bennington. After returning to civilian life, Gary spent his career working for both Taylor Electric Services in McBain for 20 years and then another 17 years for Midland Metal Products in Chicago, until his time of retirement. Aside from his skills obtained throughout his occupation, Gary was also an incredibly talented handyman and loved helping his family and friends with projects. He enjoyed taking trips around on his Harley Davidson. He was an avid sports fan, but especially enjoyed watching football games. Gary could often be found hanging out with his bestest buddy, his grandson, Ryon. Gary and Ryon created special memories together over the years. Gary was proud of his faith and was devoted to sharing the word of God by passing out bibles at any opportunity given. Above all, he cherished the time spent with his family, and always made sure they were taken care of.
  
Gary is survived by his loving children, Storina (Curtis) Overshiner of Danville, IL, Gary (Linnea) Cronkhite of Manton, Sam (Janet) Cronkhite of Manton, Tashia (Neil) Klinger of Traverse City, and Shasta Cronkhite of Cadillac; grandchildren, Anthony (Jessica) Thomas, Amanda Thomas (Brian), Adam Thomas, Kaitlin Cronkhite, Trenity Darville, Ryon Cronkhite, Braydin Cronkhite, Ben Klinger, Chloe Klinger, Dominic Sicoli, Vyolet (Justin) Vasquez, Autumn (Zach) Norton, Emma (Malachi) Payne, and Kagan Yaklin; great-grandchildren, Xander, Blake, Alyvia, Greyson, Samantha, and Carsyn; siblings, Jean Tupis and Pat Cronkhite; numerous nieces and nephews; and many other loving family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Claudia; siblings, Bev Miltibarger, Bill Cronkhite, Richard Cronkhite, Don Cronkhite, Bob Cronkhite, and Linda Cronkhite.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at 11 a.m. with visitation held one hour prior at Hitesman-Holdship Funeral Home. Military Honors will be provided by the Cadillac Area Honor Guard. A luncheon will follow at the Clam Lake Masonic Lodge.

Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.Hitesman-Holdship.com.

The family is being served by Hitesman-Holdship Funeral Home.

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