Herman Leo Bratfish, age 89, of Roscommon, died on Friday, November 25, 2022, at his home in the presence and comfort of his family.
Herman was born May 23, 1933, in Standish, Michigan, the son of John and Katie (Poole) Bratfish.
Herman is predeceased by his wife, Louisa. They had 43 wonderful years together. Herman found love again and was married for 22 years to Inabeth, who passed in July of this year.
Herman enjoyed motorcycles, racing, camping, woodworking and spending time with family. He was an active member of St. Michael Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus Prince of Peace Council, as well as the American Legion Post 96 and the Rosco-Higgins Trail Cruisers.
Herman was a veteran, having served his country in the United States Navy, aboard the USS Turner during the Korean War. Herman served as a police officer for the Detroit Police Department for nearly 29 years. After retiring in 1986 as Sergeant, Herman relished his time in the beautiful north woods.
Herman will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by his children: Paul Bratfish, Janice (Jeffrey) Hanselman, Carl Bratfish, Catherine (Michael) Steplitus, Susan (Edmond) Guay; stepson, Rick (Debbie) Mailand; grandchildren: Evan (Crystal) Bratfish-Pardue, Joseph and Kenneth Steplitus,
Jac Lynn Griffin and Bethany Guay, Adam (Julienne) Grey, Matthew and Kayla Hanselman, Chris (Heidi) Mailand, Laura (Galen) Zimmerman, Melissa (Clay) Condrey; great-grandchildren: Quincy Lovell, Amir Matthews, Fredi, Cooper, Mai, Ava and Parker Mailand, Ella and Charlotte Condrey; sister, Berneice (Robert) Southworth; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Herman is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Louisa; wife, Inabeth; daughter-in-law, Shawn Pardue; and sister, Betty (Lawrence) Nowakowski.
Family and friends will gather from 6:00-8:00 PM, with Rosary at 7:30 PM, on Monday, December 5, 2022, at Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, 143 Lake Street, Roscommon, Michigan 48653.
The Funeral Mass will be at 11:00 AM, on Tuesday, December 6, 2022, with visitation one hour prior, at St. Michael Catholic Church, 104 North 6th Street, Roscommon, Michigan 48653. Celebrant is Father Jerry Hunko.
Herman will be laid to rest at Pioneer Cemetery in South Branch Township.
Those who cannot attend due to distance, weather, or any reason preventing attendance, may watch the service streamed live at: https://www.facebook.com/wagnerandwalshfuneraldirectors
(Occasionally issues may occur considering location and availability of reception. When this occurs, the funeral home staff is prepared to record the service and then post it to the Facebook page. We appreciate your understanding).
In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorial contributions be made in Herman’s name to the American Heart Association or to Toys for Tots.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, Roscommon.
