Arthur V. Gingrich DDS

BIG RAPIDS -- Dr. G always said, "If the good Lord is willing and the creek don't rise."

Sadly, the creek rose on May 5, 2018, and Dr. G moved on to that big dental clinic in the sky. No longer will we hear: "When in doubt, rip it out." We'll miss his big barrel laughs as he played his practical jokes, but most of all we'll miss his zest for life. He was always willing to lend a hand.

He was a jack of all trades and a master of some and yet Dr. G still loved learning new things. He had adventures far too numerous to list. Suffice it to say, he had a life well lived and had no regrets. He died with his boots on driving his beloved Kubota tractor.

Perhaps it's best to let Art tell you in his own words: "Let me tell you about the Bears and Buckwheat. I Died! I didn't expire! I didn't pass away. I'm dead. I don't need any gifts but if you feel the need, in lieu of flowers you can leave a donation to the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Big Rapids or better yet, take the money, buy some good hooch, and have a drink on good ol' Art."

Dr. G proudly served in the U.S. Army as a decorated non-commissioned officer in Vietnam. His decorations included a Bronze Star and Purple Heart with clusters, among many others.

Art was preceded in death by his daughter, Katherine; his sisters, Janet Olsson and Judy Kay; and his parents, Oren and Lavone (Heath) Gingrich. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Margaret Ann (Morris) Gingrich; two daughters, Patricia (Timothy) Parker and Margaret Suzanne "Art Jr." Gingrich DDS; son, Oren (Kerstin); and his Aunt Avis Gerber.

A celebration of life will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 16, 2018, at the Stanwood Eagles. All are welcome to attend in casual attire. Military honors will take place at 3 p.m. at the Eagles. Please bring a story and a smile. Written stories will be placed in a book for his grandchildren, Genny, Trisha, Lexi and Maggie.

While it is not common but who cares, Dr. G would like to mention some notable people that he will not be taking with him just yet. Greg (Sherrie) Olsson, Nick "Mr. A**hole" Ebli, Ron "Ralphie" (Dianne) Buchko, and Carolyn, John and Erick (Deb) Marcinkewciz. Their love and friendship made this earthly life more tolerable.

Arrangements and care are entrusted to the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Share a memory or leave a condolence for the family by clicking the guestbook tab at daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com.