Christopher Paul Zemke

Christopher Paul Zemke age 61, of Deford, passed away on the morning of Saturday, July 30, 2022 at home, with his family by his side. Chris was born August 12, 1960 in Cass City, the son of the late William Henry and Joan (Hartwick) Zemke II. Chris graduated high school and went on to work at Bob Bliss and then Wright's Painting as a painter, builder, handyman, and all around jack of all trades. He eventually went on to become an independent contractor and could do almost anything. On New Years Eve of 1985, Chris found love at first sight, when he was introduced to the former Nancy McKellar. They dated for fifteen years and were married in September of 2001. Together they were members of the Moose Lodge and enjoyed bike riding, camping, kayaking, and time spent with each other. Chris loved flying model airplanes and was an amazing woodworker. He never met a stranger and you could always count on him for a laugh. Above all else, he absolutely adored being a grandpa. His grandchildren and great-granddaughter were the lights of his life. Countless neighbors and friends would say "He was Deford" and Deford surely won't be the same without him. Chris' witty, genuine, and loving character will be missed for years to come. Chris leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife of almost twenty-one years, Nancy; step-children, Lisa Meyer of Denver, Colorado, Paula Meyer of Caro, and Sam (Cassie) Meyer of Otisville; grandchildren, Harmony (James Putman) Kegley, Annabelle Meyer, and Chloe Meyer; great-granddaughter, Wren Putman; beloved sidekick and best friend, his lab, Bailey; nieces, Shannon, Savannah, and Samantha; special cousin, Sarah Tait; best friends, Don (Jane) Phillips, Kip Hopper, and Dan (Patsy) Schell; many other cousins and countless friends. In addition to his parents, Chris was welcomed home to heaven by his siblings, William Henry "Butch" Zemke III, Kathy Risdon, and Kurt Zemke In keeping with Chris' wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 27, 2022 at the White Creek Club, Dodge Rd., Deford. The family will be present to receive visitors at the club from 1:00 p.m. until the party ends with a campfire. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the Family Discretionary Fund, c/o Nancy Zemke, 205 West Sherman Street, Caro, Michigan 48723. Visitation Information Date: Saturday, August 27, 2022 Time: 1:00 pm The family will be present to receive visitors at the club from 1:00 p.m. until the party ends with a bonfire. Service Information Date: Saturday, August 27, 2022 Time: 2:00 pm A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 27, 2022 at the White Creek Club, Dodge Rd., Deford.