Roger Lee Zenker, 89, of Whitehall, went to be with his Lord and Savior Thursday, November 28, 2024.  He was born June 29, 1935, in Lansing, Michigan, the son of Willard and Leona (Bushre) Zenker.

Roger's father passed away when Roger was just 4 years old.  His mother married Wray Zenker and he became Roger's father. On April 6, 1957, Roger married the love of his life, Shirley Bays. Roger graduated from Montague, class of 1955. He was employed by Howmet (Misco) for 23 years and GE (Johnson Technology) for 18 years, all the while working as a licensed carpenter-builder. Roger lived a full and happy life. He enjoyed wintering in Florida for 10 years. Roger also enjoyed golfing, fishing, and deer hunting camp. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone. He spent many hours volunteering for Habitat for Humanity. Roger loved watching the Detroit Tigers and Lions, U of M and Michigan State football games.    

Roger is survived by:  his wife of 67 years, Shirley; children, Rhonda (Ed) Kelly, Boyd (Pam) Zenker, and Brian (Laura) Zenker; grandchildren, Michael (Jennifer) Kelly, David Kelly, Robert Kelly, Brett (Tingting)Zenker, Whitney Zenker (Evan-Fiancé'); step-grandson, Chad (Desi) Dekkinga; great-grandchildren, Sasha (Chris) Roettgers, Alexis Kelly, Lincoln and Zoey; step-great grandchildren, Kylon and Braylon; 2 great-great grandchildren; sister, Patricia Bradford; brothers-in-law, Merlyn (Millie) Bays, Larry (Jean) Bays; many wonderful nieces, nephews; the Bradford family and friends.
 
Roger was preceded in death by: his parents, brothers, Wray (Roberta) and Craig; sister, Pauline; in-laws, Asa (Florence) Bays; sister-in-law, Doris (Gordon) DeVries; brothers-in-law, Larry Bradford, Elmer (Jean) Bays. 

Funeral services will be conducted at 12 noon, Thursday, December 12, 2024, at Faith Lutheran Church, 711 E. Alice Steet, Whitehall, Michigan, 49461, with Pastor Gunia officiating.  Visitation will be held from 11 am until the start of services, Thursday, December 12, 2024 at Faith Lutheran Church. A luncheon will follow the services. Interment will be in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Shelby, Michigan.  

A special thanks to Harbor Hospice for their compassion and helpfulness to the family and also thank you to the staff at Lake Woods Nursing and Rehab for the excellent care they provided during his illness and their kindness to his family. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to: Harbor Hospice or Faith Lutheran Church.

Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements.

www.harrisfhome.com