Joseph Lathrop IV

Joseph Lathrop IV, 77, of Sanford, passed away on Wednesday, April 1, 2015, at MidMichigan Health-Midland. He was born Oct. 26, 1937, the son of Joseph III and Elsie (Dafoe) Lathrop. On June 20, 1958 he married the love of his life, Sylvia Olmstead in Wausau, Wis. She preceded him in death in 2012.

Joseph lived in Midland County since 2008, previously residing in Gladwin County. He was a gifted painter and found great beauty in wildlife. He was a devoted husband, father, papa and a very loyal friend. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting and fishing.

Joseph was a charter member of Cornerstone Baptist Church, Gladwin. He had such talent with his wildlife artistry and displayed them proudly throughout his home. He was an ordained minister, and his faith took him to various countries doing missionary work.

Left to cherish his memory are his dear friend, Joy Buchanan of Midland; children: Joseph V (Janice) Lathrop of Gladwin; Lora (Bob) Yore of Midland; Peter (Becky) Lathrop of Traverse City; 12 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sisters: Carolyn Fromer of Gladwin, Harriet Decker of Bridgeman; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; and wife of 54 years, Sylvia Lathrop. Honoring his wishes, cremation will take place and memorial services will be conducted by Pastor Rick Marshall on Tuesday, April 7, 2015, 11 a.m., with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. at Cornerstone Baptist Church, Gladwin. The family will receive friends on Monday, April 6, 2015, from 4-8 p.m., at Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home, Gladwin. Those wishing to send an expression of sympathy in lieu of flowers are asked to consider the Good News Camp, Gladwin, Michigan. www.hall-kokotovichfuneralhome.com