Theodore Edward Gokee (1924-2011)
From Biographical Wiki
| Theodore Edward Gokee | |
|---|---|
| Born: | 29 Apr 1924 Petoskey, Michigan |
| Died: | 20 Nov 2011 Petoskey, Michigan |
| Father: | Collie Cephart Gokee |
| Mother: | Julia Helen McGarey |
| Siblings: | John B. Gokee Genevieve Dochee Gokee Harry Paul Gokee Theodore Edward Gokee |
| Spouse: | Cleta May Silverthorn |
| Married: | 29 Jan 1947 Emmet Co., Michigan |
| Children: | Judy Ann Gokee Edward Theodore Gokee Robert Cephart Gokee Paul Eugene Gokee Dean Ray Gokee Mary Ladale Gokee Sandra Lee Gokee Thomas Gokee Kenneth John Gokee |
[edit] Obituary
Petoskey News-Review, November 2011
Theodore “Ted” E. Gokee, 87, of Harbor Springs, passed away on November 20, 2011 at Northern Michigan Hospital surrounded by his family.
He was born on April 29, 1924 in Petoskey to Collie and Helen (McGarey) Gokee. He attended school in Petoskey.
Ted enlisted in the Civilian Conservation Corps on July 22, 1941 and served until his discharge on January 30, 1942. On February 26, 1943, he enlisted in the U.S. Army serving until his honorable discharge on February 15, 1946.
Ted married the love of his life, Cleta Silverthorn, on January 29, 1947. Together they enjoyed 64 years.
Ted’s work history included working at Greenier Sawmill and for the City of Harbor Springs Street Department. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, classic cars, small engine repair and spending time with his family who were his pride and joy.
He was well liked and respected by many friends who enjoyed his sense of humor and art of storytelling.
Ted is survived by his wife Cleta and their children: Ed (Rose) Gokee, Bob (Kathy) Gokee, Judy Hurd, Paul (Sandy) Gokee, Dean Gokee, Mary (Rev. Dan) Hemmes, Sandy (Doug) Pierce, Tom (Linda) Gokee, Ken (Sue) Gokee and “surrogate” son Dick (Brenda) Blakemore. He also leaves 21 grandchildren, 36 great grandchildren and his constant companion, dog Buddy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Harry and John Gokee, sister Genevieve Keller, mother in law Cecil Silverthorn and son in law Jim Hurd.
Services are scheduled for Friday, November 24, 2011 at Stutsmanville Chapel with the Revs. Dan Hemmes and Ed Warner presiding.
Visitation will take place at the chapel from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M. with the service starting at 11 A.M.
Burial will follow at Lakeview Cemetery in Harbor Springs. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the family in c/o Ken Gokee, 8787 MInk Road Harbor Springs, MI 49740.
[edit] Sources
- Marriage: Emmet County, Michigan, Vital Records Search, Marriages:
- Gokee, Theodore E. & Silverthorn, Cleta Mae
- Date of Marriage: 1/29/1947
- Liber: 5
- Folio: 43
