Rev. Robert P Garrett

Rev. Robert Page Garrett age 86, of Cass City and formerly of Port Austin and Elkton, died Wednesday, March 23, at his home while under the care of hospice.

He was born November 25, 1929 in Saginaw to the late Russell and Verla (Lindstrom) Garrett. Robert grew up in Saginaw, graduating from Arthur Hill High School in 1947. He then attended Asbury College in Wilmore, Kentucky earning a bachelor degree in religious studies in 1951. Robert later attended Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan and was ordained as a minister in 1959.

On June 9, 1951 Robert was united in marriage to Charlene Paige at the Ames Methodist Church in Saginaw and they began a wonderful life together in the ministry of serving others and raising a family.

Robert’s pastorate began at the Methodist Church in Mortonsville, Kentucky. He later moved back to Michigan and served congregations in Hillman, Saugatuck, Saginaw, Dixboro, Port Austin, Grindstone City, Port Hope, Pinnebog, Blissfield, Cass City and in Elkton as a visitation pastor. During his 20 year service in Port Austin, Robert served as Air Force Chaplin of the 754th Squadron, Chaplain for the Port Austin Fire Dept., and president of the Port Austin Library and Port Austin PTA. He was one of the co-founders of Top of the Thumb Leisure Ministries and was an active member of the Port Austin Community Players. Robert is remembered for his sense of humor and fun loving antics. He was blessed with a beautiful voice and was asked by many to sing at weddings and funerals.

Surviving are his wife of 64 years, Charlene; children, Robert Jr.(Paula) Garrett of Caro, Sue (David) Johnston of Horntown, VA, Connie (Rev. Ken) Smeader of Kalamazoo and Laura (Dennis) Hill of Cass City; twelve grandchildren, Kelli (James) Bratton, Mallory Garrett, Allison (Andrew) Carson, Adam (fiancée, Ashley Condrin) Garrett, Megan (James) Clause, Alycia Johnston , Joshua (Jessica) Smeader, Shannon (Jermaine) Morris, Ryan (Bethany) Smeader, Jason (Alexandra) Hill, Bryan (Melissa) Hill and Robyn (Eddie) Williams and nine great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his brother Charles Garrett.
Robert always demonstrated his deep love and commitment to his family through both his words and actions.

A memorial service celebrating Robert’s life will be held on Saturday, May 14 at 11 am at the Cass City United Methodist Church. Family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Those considering a memorial gift may donate to the church or charity of their choice.
Arrangements are being cared for by the Champagne Funeral Chapel of Elkton.