Harry Lipka Obituary Harry Lipka, 77, of Traverse City, died - TopicsExpress



          

Harry Lipka Obituary Harry Lipka, 77, of Traverse City, died March 25, 2014, at the home of his daughter and son-in-law in Leelanau County. His parents, Edith (Pizzimenti) and Harry, as well as his wife of almost 50 years, Marlene (Sterchi) predeceased him. He is survived by his daughters and their spouses: Marie Walker Livernois (Ted), Suzanne (Richard) Rubin, Cindy Lipka, and Cheryl (Kent) Rice; grandchildren Haley (Marvin) Barnes, Lee (Candace) Marvin, Lisa Walker, Laura (Scott) Barnett, Zoe Rice, Annika Rice, and Meghan Rice; and great-grandchildren Danielle Barnes, Mason Barnes, Payton Barnes, Chayson Barnes, Jackson Norgaard, and Bryn Marvin. Born in Detroit, Harry was the only child of two doting parents. He was the center of the universe to both sets of grandparents (one Italian and one German), who lived nearby, along with several aunts and uncles. He loved to draw. Growing up in “The Motor City,” he spent many hours designing futuristic-looking automobiles. He was kind to all, with an amazing reverence for life. He wouldn’t kill even a spider, taking them outside if they were found trespassing. He loved animals, and always had a dog (or two), not to mention chickens, ducks, bunnies, and goats. He enjoyed his outdoor ponds filled with frogs and fish, tending them conscientiously. There was always plenty to be found at the numerous bird feeders surrounding his house. Harry’s sense of humor is legendary. Always a practical joker, he regularly spoofed friends and family. He told the best stories, and nothing was better than a good laugh. Once he traded a friend ex-lax for chocolate while they were at the movies. On the way home, the friend suddenly started running, very fast. Until it became apparent that resistance was futile. After that, he walked. V-e-r-y . . . s-l-o-w-l-y. He met Marlene, the love of his life, at Denby High School, a magnet school for students interested in the arts. They were married in 1957 at Assumption Grotto Cathedral. Even Marlene was not immune to his practical jokes, and was at a disadvantage until she learned enough Italian to fend for herself. He later studied Art and Political Science at Wayne State University, working for the Wayne County Department of Social Services. The family moved to Traverse City in 1972, where he and Marlene were able to build their dream home on the hill. They were strong and independent, as they had to be, living up on that hill! They were ahead of their time, with core values of self-sufficiency and “living green.” Harry retired from the State of Michigan in 1991, to follow his true passion as a nature and portrait photographer. His photography won many awards, but he was especially pleased to display it at North Peak, where everybody knew his name. Besides his family and pets, “Paki’s” interests were myriad: reading (Sherlock Holmes was a favorite), the visual arts, music, the woods, the water, and living in Traverse City. However, in later years, he developed a distinct contempt and loathing for snow. Those who know him will fondly recall that special term he coined for it. He enjoyed visiting his favorite haunts daily, stopping for a coke to catch up with friends. He knew everyone’s story and empathized with their struggles. In turn, people knew him wherever he went. He would want us to thank his family, friends, and caregivers, especially Hospice of Michigan, for all their tender support and expertise. They made it possible for him to remain at home with his family, which was so important because he “couldn’t stand old people.” He needed to be among peers, laughing and celebrating. His best advice to his daughters was, “Don’t ever get old.” Ultimately, he died of a broken heart, mourning all the things we lose as we age. Harry brought an intensity and passion to all he pursued, leaving an indelible impression. He will be dearly missed, though the best of his talents and virtues live on in those whom he touched. “It’s elementary, Dear Watson . . . . If you eliminate all other factors, the one that remains must be the truth.” And what remains, the truth, is this: he was a kind, gentle, and good man. A celebration of Harry’s life will be held at Immaculate Conception Church in Traverse City, at 11:00 AM, on Friday, March 28th. A luncheon follows. Donations may be made to the Cherryland Humane Society of Traverse City, at https://cherrylandhumane.org/youcanhelp/donations/donate.php.
Posted on: Thu, 27 Mar 2014 17:15:36 +0000

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