Gregory S. "Greg" Marczak's Obituary
Gregory Steven Marczak passed away at home on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, surrounded by friends and family, after courageously battling cancer. Born on July 2, 1964, to Frank and Marlene Marczak in Flint, Michigan, he graduated from Reeths-Puffer High School and continued his education first at Muskegon Community College and then at the University of Michigan. After receiving his Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, Greg went on to earn his Master’s degree in chemistry from Western Michigan University. While studying at the University of Michigan, he met Barbara Jacobs, and they married at Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Muskegon on April 9, 1988. Following successful tenures as a chemist at Howmet and Lorin Industries, Greg shifted careers to become a chemistry professor at Muskegon Community College where he helped countless students pursue their degrees in nursing, science, and engineering for over 22 years. Greg was an incredibly dedicated father and husband, whether he was scuba diving with his oldest son, Steven, perfecting his photography skills with his middle son, Lance, riding Harleys with his youngest son, Pierce, playing fetch with one of his cherished golden retrievers, or simply devoting his leisure time to be with Barbara. A devoted servant of the community, Greg volunteered as a member of the Muskegon Sheriff Dive Team, constantly helped at his sons’ schools, served as a lector at church, and led his sons’ soccer teams to multiple championships. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, Anabelle (7), Felix (5), and Katerina (3) (Chun-Mei Chiu & Steven), and Elika (3) and a soon-to-be brother or sister (Taylor Lascko & Lance). In addition to his beloved parents, his precious wife of 36 years, and his dearly loved children and grandchildren, Greg is survived by his sisters, Stacy (Jerome) Kotecki and Joan (Bob) Scott, and his latest golden retriever, Mandy. A visitation with the family will be held from 5:00 – 8:00 PM on Tuesday, August 20, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey Street, Norton Shores, MI 49444. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, August 21, at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 1110 Dykstra Road, North Muskegon, MI 49445. A rosary will commence at 9:30 AM, followed by a one-hour visitation with the family at 10:00 AM, and finally Mass at 11:00 AM. Greg will be laid to rest at Laketon Township Cemetery. Please direct memorials in Greg’s honor to the American Cancer Society or Harbor Hospice. Please also share your favorite memories of Greg at www.sytsemafh.com.
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