Henry B. Ebeling

HENRY EBELING NORWAY- Henry “Hank” Ebeling, Jr. age 88 of Norway, died Wednesday, March 14, 2012 at Freeman Nursing and Rehabilitation Community in Kingsford, MI. He was born on May 23, 1923 in Norway, the son of the late Henry Sr. and Kathryn (O'Donnell) Ebeling. Hank graduated from Norway High School in 1941 and then enrolled at Michigan State University. With the start of World War II, Hank and a friend enlisted in the Marine Corps. A World War II Veteran, Hank served his country proudly from 1942-1945 as a Sergeant on Eniwetok Atol in the Marshall Islands. Upon his return, and untimely death of his father, Hank took over the family grocery store. Today, the supermarket is still owned and operated by the Ebeling family and has employed hundreds of people throughout the years. Hank was a hard working "cowboy" of sorts who did not live his life by telling stories, but created them through the multitude of diverse experiences he lived. When Hank did share stories of his past, it left people awestruck. Some of his legacies included the time he bought a horse while at MSU and spent weeks trying to ride it back to the UP. Other stories were about the numerous times he would put skis on the bottom of his plane and land it on the lakes during the winter. There are also interesting versions about how he got his famous, old pair of red cowboy boots. As family gets together in the days and years to come, we will enjoy sharing the many adventures Hank lived through. Hank taught people what it meant to work hard and expected the best from them. When he smiled or gave a compliment, he meant it. He cared about people and enjoyed being with his family. Hank loved his quiet, serene ranch life. He enjoyed his horses, spending time at camp, swimming, skiing, and outdoor life in general. He is survived by his children Mark (Mary Kay), David (Carol), Craig and Rose, 10 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, and the many other people he has positively impacted through his time on earth. Hank was preceded in death by his parents Henry and Kathryn, his first wife Joy (Larsh), his second wife Eileen (Zeni), 3 sisters, grandson Danny, stepson Wally, and many other family members. Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 24 from 11-1 p.m. at the Ortman Funeral Home in Norway. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday at 1 p.m at the Ortman Funeral Home with Fr. Timothy Ekaitis, pastor of St. Mary’s Church in Norway, presiding. Interment will follow at the Norway Township Cemetery.

Henry B. Ebeling

May 23, 1923 - March 14, 2012