Willard Hugo McGee

Willard Hugo McGee, age 88 of Lake City, went to be with his Saviour, his parents and son, Michael on June 22, 2025.

Hugo was born August 28, 1936 in Lake City; the first of five siblings of Claude and Lethel (Sherwood) McGee.

He grew up in North Lake City, attending a one room school for his elementary years. Hugo graduated from Lake City High School in 1955. He then attended Michigan State College Agriculture Short Course in East Lansing with Junior Hunt.

Hugo was then employed by Michigan State University Agriculture Research Farm from 1957 and retiring in 2004.

Hugo married Ruth Peterson of Lake City on November 11, 1961 at the Lake City Methodist Church. Three sons were born to this union; Robert, Scott and Michael.

Hugo served in the Michigan National Guard from 1954 to 1963. It being a time of peace, Hugo's call to duty was the summer encampments at Camp Grayling.

After retiring from MSU Research Farm, Hugo volunteered for many years at Mercy Hospital in Cadillac, doing escort duties. If you were a patient at Mercy, Hugo may have wheeled you out from the hospital room to your car.

Hugo was a lifetime member of the Lake City United Methodist Church and served on many committees and teams. He was also the custodian for his church. Hugo served as camp counselor for Methodist Youth Camps at Pentwater for a week or two for several summers.

Hugo is survived by his wife, Ruth, sons, Scott of Lake City and Robert (Krista) and grandchildren, Jacob and Elayna of Evergreen, CO. He is also survived by his youngest brother, Jack McGee and several nieces and nephews and in-laws.

He was preceded in death by a son, Michael in 2009, his parents and brothers, Robert and Stuart and sister, Verona.

A memorial service will be held Friday, June 27, 2025 beginning at 11:00 am at the Lake City United Methodist Church with Pastor James Noggle officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am until service time.

Burial will take place in the Lake City Cemetery.

The Young-Holdship Funeral Home in Lake City is serving the family. Words of comfort and memories may be shared on www.holdshipfuneralhomes.com. 

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