Gail Norman Papenhagen

Gail Papenhagen, 74 of Riga, MI, passed away Thursday, July 27, 2017 at Aspen Grove, Lambertville, MI.

He was born February 15, 1943 in Toledo, OH, to Norman P. and Doris (Viers) Papenhagen.

He married his high school sweet heart Rita M. Philabaum in 1962, and she remained in his heart for 55 years and together they raised two daughters.

Left to cherish Gail’s memory are daughters, Darlene (Duane) Burgoyne; Kelly (John) Ortmann.

Sisters Pauline Leogrande and Suzanne Aldrich. 

Grandchildren- Brent (Brandy) Marriott, Kevin Marriott, Scott (Laura) Marriott, Samantha (Blake) Dressel and Megan Ortmann and special friends Dean and Rhonda Sass.

Gail was preceded death by his wife Rita (1997), parents and brother Gerald.

Gail worked for S. A. Storer & Sons as brick mason for 30 years, retiring in 1997.  Before that he worked at Independent Dairy and Kaiser Jeep.  He was a member of the International Bricklayers Union and Local Union 3 in Toledo.  Gail worked hard and played hard, his hobbies included:  gardening, golf, hunting at the family cabin, fishing, snowmobiling, four-wheeling and flying his six-shooter power parachute. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren watching them play sports, going on trips up north and simply sitting with them and sharing stories of his and their adventures.

Gail always enjoyed “projects” whether it being his own or a neighbors or friend.  He was a man who was devoted to his family and community.

Friends may call at the Reeb Funeral Home, 5712 N. Main St., Sylvania, OH, Tuesday, August 1, 2017 from 4 to 9 pm, where the Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, August 2, at 11am.  Interment will be private at Whiteford Union Cemetery.  Those wishing to give a memorial are asked to consider St. Jude Children’s Hospital.