Gary Lee Weemhoff

Gary Lee Weemhoff, 71 of Battle Creek, MI passed away unexpectedly on Monday June 22nd, 2026 at Bronson Methodist Hospital with family by his side.

Gary was born on June 29th, 1954, in Grand Rapids, MI to Ernest James and Virginia June (Grover) Weemhoff. He grew up in Lowell, MI and was a 1972 graduate of Lowell High School. Gary then went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts degree from Michigan State University and graduated with highest honors. He spent many years employed as a Senior Claims Adjuster at AAA Michigan before his retirement.

Gary met the love of his life, Kathy Ann Hlatko, on a blind date while in college. The two were united in Marriage on June 26, 1981 in Waimea Falls, Hawaii. They would be celebrating their 45th Wedding Anniversary this year.

Gary was a third-degree Mason and has been a member of the Ira A. Beck Lodge #503 since 1986 and was just shy of becoming a lifetime member. He was an extreme MSU fan and loved to cheer on the Spartans. He enjoyed working on his yard, taking care of his home, spending time with his family and keeping himself busy. In his earlier years he obtained his pilot’s license and purchased his first airplane, a Cessna, when he was 18 years old.

Gary was very proud of his family and would brag about them any chance he had. They spent many weekends camping up north at DH Day campground, visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes and exploring the Lake Michigan Shoreline. Gary loved his children and any chance he had to spend time with his family and his close friends.

Gary was known for his kindness. He never met a stranger and was kind, generous and friendly to everyone he encountered. He treated everyone with a gentle, warm, sweet attitude and always made people feel important. If you were feeling down, Gary would use his quick wit and sense of humor to make you smile, laugh and lift your spirit. His personality will have a lasting impression on all those who loved him and those who were lucky enough to have crossed paths with Gary even just once.

Gary will be remembered for many things but most of all his love for his family, his genuine love for others and for making the world a better place to live.

Gary is survived by his loving wife Kathy; daughter Lyndsie (Elijah) Martin of Galesburg; son, Dave (Svetlana) Weemhoff serving with the U.S. Navy in Camas, WA; grandchildren Hailie Martin, Sasha, Alexei and Mila Weemhoff; siblings Carol King, Bonnie Bruce, Carrie (Steve) Nicolia, Norman (Diane) Weemhoff and several cousins, nieces, nephews and their families. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Virginia; and two brothers-in-law, Ray King and Robert Bruce.

Per Gary’s wishes his family will gather at a later date to honor and celebrate his life and carry on Gary’s love for all.

Memorial Contributions may be made anonymously to an animal shelter of your choice.

Arrangements are by Farley Estes and Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care. Personal messages for the family may be placed at

www.farleyestesdowdle.com