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Karl Steven Waitner 9-15-51 to 7-12-16
Karl walked on to be with his father late in the morning on Tuesday July 12th , 2016, surrounded by loved ones.
He was preceded in death by his father Vern Waitner, Joyce Waitner (sister), Lawrence Lempke (father-in-law), and Butch Lempke (brother-in-law).

He is survived by his beloved wife and best friend of nearly 47 years, Connie Waitner. When asked how long he had been married, Karl would respond, “Not long enough”. Their love is legendary. Karl and Connie’s three children survive. Melissa Waitner, Karl (Shelley) Waitner, and Andrea Krause.
Ten dearly-loved grandchildren survive; Darby, Henry, Morgan, Anna Rose, Athena, Karl, Aurora, Briar, Cameron, and Zaine, his great grandson and “best buddy”. Brother Pete (DeeDee) Waitner, Sisters Debbie Waitner and Laura, sisters-in-law Sandy (Steve) Mezeske and Bonnie (Joel) Kenny also survive, as well as many, many nieces & nephews and their families.
Words cannot describe the positive impact Karl had on so many. His kind and jovial demeanor brightened the day of everyone he came in contact with. If you asked how Karl was, he would respond with “living the dream” or “walking on sunshine”. He was a constant giver, whether time, money or resources. If he had it and someone needed it, he gave it. He had unwavering love for his family, friends, community and country. He spent several years in service to Manistee as a Past County Commissioner, School Board Member, Planning Commissioner, and Past Exalted Ruler at Manistee Elk’s Lodge #250. He was a life-long blood donor, having donated over twenty gallons since the age of 18. He supported various charitable causes and volunteered at the Manistee Elk’s Lodge, organizing Halloween and Christmas parties for Manistee/Benzie Community Mental Health clients.
He was an avid hunter, instilling that love in his children and grandchildren. He finished a crossword puzzle every day and loved to learn. He was a skilled builder, having built and remodeled homes for his young family and each of his children. He was a music lover, often saying that there “is a song about everything”.
Karl was a genuinely great man and will be missed by everyone who knew him. He took time to let those in his life know how much they were loved and valued.
If anyone wishes to remember Karl, the family will receive visitors on Friday, July 15th from 6:00 pm-8:00 pm. and Saturday July 16th from 11:00 am-12:00 p.m. at Oak Grove Funeral Home in Parkdale, Michigan. The Celebration of Life will take place Saturday, July 16th at 12:00 p.m., 2016, also at Oak Grove. A fellowship meal will follow at the Little River Casino Resort Conference Center.
To honor Karl’s charitable nature, (in lieu of flowers) donations will be accepted and will be disbursed by his family to his favorite causes.
Please visit Karl’s personal page of memories at www.oakgrovefh.com to share a story or photo. The family has entrusted the Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center with funeral arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Karl Steven Waitner, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.