Frederick M. Carpenter, Jr.

Frederick M. “Fred” Carpenter, Jr., age 65 of Cheboygan passed away Thursday, October 8, 2015 at his home. He was born July 7, 1950 in Mt. Clemens, the son of Frederick and Hattie (Schobel) Carpenter, Sr. On August 23, 1974 in Northville, Fred married Bernice “Bernie” Sulak.

After graduating from high school in 1968, Fred enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corp. He served during the Vietnam War spending 12 months in Vietnam where he earned numerous commendations including the Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Expert Rifle Badge, Marksman Pistol Badge, Navy Unit Commendation and several others. Following his honorable discharge from the service in 1971, Fred joined the Detroit Police Department. He was promoted to Sergeant and then Lieutenant and, for the last 10 years of his career, was in charge of the Aviation Unit where he flew helicopters. He retired in 1997 after 25 years of service. Upon his retirement, he and Bernie moved to Cheboygan.

Fred enjoyed hunting and fishing and was a member of the Cheboygan Eagles and the Michigan Bow Hunters. He had also received his Builders License after his retirement and completely remodeled their home.

Survivors include his wife Bernie of Cheboygan, two sons, Michael Carpenter of Harrison Township and Steven (Lynn) Carpenter of Woodhaven, two sisters, Nancy (Al) Verhaeghe of Roscommon and Laurie (Bruce) Engelman of North Fort Myers, FL and three grandchildren, Carrissa, Nicole and Steven. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Friday, October 16, 2015 at Noon at the Nordman-Christian Funeral Home with Chaplain Diane Myers officiating. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service.  Memorial contributions in Fred’s name may be directed to Hospice of the Straits.

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