Marc Thomas (Schefke) Kanasty, age 54 of Pelkie, MI passed away on Friday, January 6, 2017 at U P Health System in Marquette, MI from health complications.
Marc was born May 19, 1962 in Ferndale, MI son of Judy (Russell) and Ken Kanasty of Troy and the late Ronald Schefke. Marc grew up in Royal Oak and Troy. He graduated from Troy High School in 1980 and attended Northern Michigan University.
A grandson to the late Harold and Olive Russell, the late Rose and Delose Cole, and the late Cecile Schefke. Marc as a boy shared much time with his grandma and gramps Russell from who he inherited his cherished Ford tractor.
The brother of Jaimee (Matt) Zrebiec of Fort Meyers, FL, Keith (Dawn) Kanasty of Metamora, MI, and the late Steven Kanasty. The loving father to Sarah (David) Simons of Marquette, Emily Kanasty of Marquette, the late Tyler Salbashian, and Kasey Diamentis of L’Anse, and grandfather to Damien Simons. For Marc, becoming a father brought great joy to his life.
The husband to Michelle (Salbashian) Kanasty of L’Anse and former husband to Renee Laitila of Arnheim. Marc spent his adult life in the Upper Peninsula, he chose to call home.
An avid league bowler and league softball member, Marc whole-heartedly enjoyed the comradery. He loved the great outdoors as a hunter, snowmobiler and gardener. Woodworking was a passion, as he designed and created custom items given as gifts to his loved ones. Marc enjoyed his friendships and generously lend a hand when needed. Having a soft spot for animals Marc was never without a pet companion. Throughout his life, Marc was an all-around handy man known to fix anything. From small engines to construction Marc’s talents were boundless.
Marc earned the honor of Route Salesman of the Year while employed by Bunny Bread/Sara lee prior to realizing his life’s dream as a business owner from 1994 through 2014. Most recently, Marc had become a valued addition and helped his friend Candy Kanniainen run the family business in Covington, MI.
As a nephew, cousin, uncle, friend and all who knew him, we will remember Marc’s own brand of wit and sense of humor along with his infectious and relentless can-do spirit. We are all the better having known and loved Marc, sharing our lives with his. Rest in Peace “Kano”.
Visitation will be on Wednesday, January 11th from 4-7 p.m. at the Jacobson Funeral Home. His funeral service will be at 7 p.m. with Rev. Steve Rhoades officiating. Burial will be in the Alston Cemetery. The Jacobson Funeral Home is handling arrangements.
Friends may sign Marc’s guest book or send condolences at www.jacobsonfuneralhome.com