Jack Challender

Jack Allen Challender, 71, of Otsego, MI passed away Sunday, April 16, 2017, at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo. He was born November 6, 1945, in Leland, the son of Donald and Lottie (Laird) Challender. Jack served in the US NAVY during Vietnam and was Honorably discharged in 1968. Jack worked for the Eaton Corporation, in Kalamazoo, until he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Accounting. Afterward he worked as an auditor for the Defense Contract Audit Agency in Grand Rapids and later in Newport News, Virginia, retiring in 2005. Jack looked forward to having coffee with his friends at the local restaurant every morning. He also enjoyed playing cards and when he was younger, riding motorcycles. Most of all, Jack loved spending time with his family especially with his grandsons. On August 20, 1968, in Decatur, Indiana, Jack married Nancy Irene Carmien, who survives him. He is also survived by: his daughter, Marcie (James) Powell of Portage; and his grandsons, James "Jay" Powell and Blake Powell. Funeral services will be conducted at 3:00 PM, Friday, April 21, 2017, at Our Savior Lutheran Church, in Benzonia, with Pastor Michael Belinsky Sr. officiating. Interment will follow in the Benzonia Township Cemetery. Visitation will be held Friday from 1:00 PM until time of services at the church. A memorial service will also be held in the Portage Area at a later date. The Bennett-Barz Funeral Home, in Beulah, is in charge of arrangements.