ESCANABA – Wallace Anthony Marenger, 84, of Escanaba, passed away with peace and grace early Sunday morning, July 17, 2016, at the Iron Mountain VA facility with his loving family at his side. He will always be admired as an amazing husband, father, and grandfather whose greatest passion in life was helping others and “spreading the love.”
Wally was born June 23, 1932, in Escanaba, the son of Edward and Margaret “Irene” (Jolly) Marenger. He was raised in Cornell and was a 1950 graduate of St. Joseph Catholic High School. After high school, he attended St. Norbert college for a year and then transferred to Michigan State University, graduating with a BS degree in agriculture. Following graduation, Wally enlisted in the United States Army, serving during the Korean War, until his honorable discharge in April of 1955.
On Sept. 10, 1955, Wally was united in marriage to the former Patricia Garrett at St. Anne Catholic Church and together the couple made their home and raised their family in Escanaba. Wally, along with his father and brothers, owned and operated Escanaba Machine Company for many years.
In addition to his loving wife Patricia, Wally is survived by: sons, Paul (Tina) Marenger and Matt (Holly) Marenger, both of Escanaba; daughters, Mary Pat (Dennis) Leveille of Vulcan, Mich., Michelle Marenger of Marquette, Mich.; brother, Richard (Kay Maynard) Marenger of Escanaba; sister, Mary (Gerald) Beauchamp of Wells, Mich.; daughter-in-law, Sue Marenger of Ford River, Mich.; and sister-in-law, Mildred “Mickey” Marenger of Flat Rock, Mich. Also surviving are 20 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Wally was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Irene; son, Michael Marenger; brothers, Harold and Harvey Marenger; sister, Pearl Bittner; and brother-in-law, Herman Bittner
Wally’s family will receive friends on Thursday from 1 to 3 p.m., at the Skradski Family Funeral Home in Escanaba. Military rites will follow visiting hours at 3 p.m. at the Skradski Family Funeral Home in Escanaba with the Delta County Veterans Council presiding. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 4 p.m. at St. Joseph St. Patrick Church in Escanaba with Rev. Fr. Eric Olson officiating. Luncheon will follow in the St. Joseph St. Patrick Parish Hall. Wally will be laid to rest in the Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery in Escanaba. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting with arrangements. Messages of condolence may be offered online at www.skradskifuneralhomes.com
