Ethel Schichtel

Ethel Mae Schichtel, 86, of Traverse City, passed peacefully on Monday, Sept. 21, 2015.

She was born on Apr. 30, 1929 in Uhrichsville, Ohio, the daughter of Fred and Mary E. (Conner) Patterson.

She graduated from Dennison High School and worked as a nurse aide in a children’s hospital. Ethel moved to Michigan and while employed at a physician’s office, met her husband, Philip Fred Schichtel. They were wed on Oct. 16, 1954.

For years, Ethel worked at Campus Supply and Bridal in Traverse City, where she enjoyed assisting bridal parties. Ethel was an avid reader and enjoyed baking, gardening and spending time with her family and little dog, Lilly. She was a devoted friend and neighbor. Ethel was the loving, patient caregiver for her disabled husband for nearly 30 years.

Ethel is survived by her children, Keith (Rachel) Schichtel, Daniel (Cindy) Schichtel, Lori (Ben) Komrska, Linda Schichtel Lark and former son-in-law David Lark; grandchildren, David Philip Lark, Timothy (Shawna Bartlett) Lark, Lindsey and Cole Komrska, Kimberly and Philip Schichtel, Christine and Steven Gauthier and Rob (Emily) Henderson; great-grandchildren, Gabriel, Kirk and Jaxon; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Mary; husband, Philip; son, Joseph; grandson, Brandon Komrska; sister, Betty (Sam) Kellar; brother, James (Jean) Tidrick; and her step siblings.

Memorial Services will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 at Life Story Funeral Home, Traverse City. The family will greet friends starting at 2 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice of Michigan, Traverse City. Please sign the guest book and share a message with her family.

Burial will be in St. Mary’s of Hannah Cemetery with her husband at a future date.