Lewis L. Gemmell

Lewis L. Gemmell of Fairview, age 76, passed away on Christmas Day, 2019, at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Pontiac. Lew was born April 24, 1943 in Cass City, the son of the late Clayton & Ardis (Jarvis) Gemmell. He grew up in Elkton and was part of the first graduating class of Laker High School in 1961. Lew attended Michigan State University where he studied agriculture and he farmed for many years following his graduation. He later worked as a computer engineer and was self-employed in the building trades before taking a position with the Oscoda County Library seven years ago, a position he held and loved until his death. Lew was united in marriage with the former Baraca McKinney on December 8, 1984 in Lake Orion and moved with her to Fairview in 1991. Lew will be remembered as a man that could build almost anything, and was always researching his next project. He was also a former priest with the Community of Christ Church in Bad Axe and Owendale. Left to cherish Lew's memory are his wife, Baraca Gemmell of Fairview; three children and their spouses, Thomas Gemmell of Caro, Michelle & David Monroe of Caro, Meredith & Richard Brown of Vassar; three stepsons, Mark McKinney of Florida, Grant & Dawn McKinney of Mio, Matthew McKinney and his companion, Judy Dull, of Gladwin; nine grandchildren, Justin, Kyle, Michael, Alexis, Brandon, Cadee, Sandra, Michael, and Mark; four great-grandchildren; one sister, Charlene Craig of Pigeon; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Lew was preceded in death by one brother, Donald Gemmell. In keeping with Lew's wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at a later date in Mio and will be announced as information becomes available. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the Gemmell Family Discretionary Fund, c/o Baraca Gemmell, 205 West Sherman Street, Caro, MI 48723. Service Information In keeping with Lew's wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at a later date in Mio and will be announced as information becomes available.