Frederick Daniel Gingerich, age 89, of Au Gres, Michigan, passed away on October 23, 2023, in Bay City, Michigan. Frederick was born to the late Daniel and Alma (Handrich) Gingerich in Au Gres, Michigan on July 30, 1934. He married Wilma Miller in 1960 and until her death in 2001, they raised four children and worked the family crop and dairy farm together. He loved being a follower of Jesus Christ, singing his favorite hymns, being on the farm, and flying his Cessna airplane. He was an active member of the Riverside Mennonite and National City Churches, and celebrating Christ was a big part of his life. He was a member of the Gideon’s International serving as the local organization Chaplain. Frederick also was on a Mission’s Board where he traveled to various countries spreading the Word of God and encouraging the churches there. In 2006, he married Sandra Obispo in Sarasota, Florida, and they enjoyed 17 years together. As a couple, they traveled around North America delivering RVs. They also volunteered at Menno-Hof in Shipshewanna IN for the past ten winters. The name Frederick means “a peaceful ruler”. He was a hardworking man, always had a smile on his face, and his presence in the community will be missed.
Frederick is survived by his wife, Sandra Gingerich; children, Darryl (Rosanne) Gingerich, Donald (Marilee) Gingerich, Marcus (Beverly) Gingerich, and Sharon (Ammon) Stoltzfus; 23 grandchildren; 27 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Frederick is preceded in death by his sisters, Catherine Gingerich, Erma Maust, and Velma Schrock; first wife, Wilma Miller; granddaughter, Tia Stoltzfus and great-grandson, Ardell Byler.
Visitation will be on Thursday, October 26, 2023, at the Riverside Mennonite Church in Turner, Michigan from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM. A funeral service will be held at the Riverside Mennonite Church on Friday, October 27, 2023, at 11:00 AM. The family will begin to welcome guests at 10:00 AM. Following the service, Frederick will be interred in Sims-Whitney Cemetery in AuGres, Michigan. You may offer an online condolence at www.bureshfuneralhomes.com.
