Dennis (Gus) Schnipke

Dennis L. Schnipke (Gus) 77, ran his last marathon on February 7, 2013, passing away form cancer. Gus was born October 16, 1935 and joined the United States Navy when he was 17, with permission from his parents. He traveled around the world on the USS WASP. He was proud of his service and equally proud of being a Korean War Vet. He attended many Navy reunions throughout his life. Shortly after his return from the service, he went to work for the Kent County Road Commission and worked there until he passed, for a total of 55 years. Another proud achievement for Gus was serving 35 years on the Board of the Kent County Credit Union, one that has set a new record. Gus was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan the son of the late LTG Clarence and Bernice Schnipke. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife Marcia and their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Daughter Michelle Timpson and her daughters Tricia Thomas and Jordyn Timpson, son Steve Schnipke and wife Katie, daughter Sharon Schnipke and her partner, Renee Grant. Step-daughter Brendalee McCarthy and her daughters Michelle Boss and her son Logan, Ashley Pautke and her husband David and their sons Keegan and Kaleb, and McKenzie McCarthy. Step-son Mike McCarthy and his daughter Jamie McCarthy (Ryan Headworth), and their daughters Emaleigh, Addisyn and Avery. He also leaves behind his sisters and brother, Joan (Jer) Kruzel, Paul (Kay) Schnipke and Sue Schnipke and special extended family, Joan Thompson and Tom and Kathy Thompson and their sons Samuel and Noah. last, but not least, his faithful little companion, Casper, also his bunkmate. Preceding Gus in death were his parents LTG Clarence and Bernice Schnipke, his sister Jacqueline Collier, his brother Alan Schnipke, son-in-law Jeff Timpson and his best friend Ivan Thompson. Gus enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, traveling and spending time with his family and friends. Gus was a husband, father, brother, grandpa, co-worker and a great friend. He will be missed by not only his family but his friends and fellow sailors as well. Sail on Gus, sail on. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society, Faith Hospice or AMVETS. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday at 11:00 am at Holy Name of Jesus Church where he will repose one hour prior. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the Arsulowicz Brothers Remembrance Mortuary, 3525 Remembrance NW on Sunday 2-4 and 7-9 pm. Burial will be held at the Fort Custer National Cemetery.

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Dennis (Gus) Schnipke

October 16, 1935 - February 7, 2013