Scott Gelbaugh

Scott Lyle Gelbaugh passed away on September 2, 2021 after a short battle with cancer. Scott was born at the William Crispe Hospital in Plainwell, Michigan on October 15, 1952. He was the second of four sons born to Donald and Betty Gelbaugh. Scott graduated from Plainwell High School in 1970, afterward he attended Central Michigan University where he earned a Bachelor's degree in accounting. While attending CMU, Scott met his future wife Jody Barna at a sorority party. Scott and Jody share three children Melissa, Seth, and Adam. Scott's first accounting job was in Detroit where he worked in the newly built Renaissance Center working for Ernst and Young. After he tired of big city life, he and Jody moved back to his hometown of Plainwell. Scott resumed his career in Kalamazoo, partnering with his brother Bruce Gelbaugh to begin a small CPA practice. Scott enjoyed helping his many clients in the Kalamazoo area. He was usually hard at work, but would never miss the numerous dance recitals, soccer games, track meets, or swim meets, where he loved watching his children and grandchildren excel. Scott would also deer hunt with his family and friends each fall; although, most years he brought home only funny stories and good memories. The Gelbaugh family also spent many summer vacations on Mackinac Island where you could find Scott huffing his bike up the Grand Hotel hill, golfing at Wawashkamo or just relaxing with his family. Later in life, Scott moved to Traverse City where he worked in the oil and gas business with his brother Brad. While in Traverse City, Scott made many new friends. He was a member of the Elk's Club and loved the comradery with his golf league buddies. Scott is preceded in death by his mother, father, and son Seth Gelbaugh. He is survived by his previous spouse, Jody Barna and their two children Melissa (Stephen) and Adam (Mary); four grandchildren Anthony Pierce, Alissa Pierce, Seth Gelbaugh and Katherine Gelbaugh. Friends and family will gather to share our memories on Saturday, October 16, 2021 at 721 S. Main Street in Plainwell, MI from 1PM to 4PM. All friends and family are welcome to attend. If a donation is desired, there will be a fund established through Plainwell Community Schools to support a children's golf program. Donations may be made on the district's website at plainwellschools.org, RevTrak or checks may be made out to Plainwell Community Schools and mailed to 600 School Drive, Plainwell, MI 49080.