Erwin Bennett Resk
August 16, 1929 – March 23, 2026
Erwin Bennett Resk of Birmingham, Michigan, passed away on March 23, 2026, at the age of 96.
Erwin was born on August 16, 1929, in
Pittsburgh, PA, to the late Joseph and Ruth Resk. He lived a long and full life defined by his devotion to his family, his strong work ethic, and his enduring love for his wife, Marlene.
Erwin met Marlene, the love of his life, while on vacation in Lexington, Michigan. They were married in 1951 and built a remarkable life together spanning more than 70 years. Together, they raised their family in Eastpointe, Michigan (formerly East Detroit), creating a home filled with love, laughter, and lasting traditions.
Erwin was the proud father of Kathy (Dennis) Norris, Joseph (Bertha), Peggy (Dave) Meador, Trisha (Chris) Grzybowski, John (Cathy), and Jim (Julie). He was a loving grandfather to Christa (Brian) Carr, Bill (Nicole) Norris, Nick Meador, David (Ashley) Meador, Jeff (Molly) Meador, Belle Meador, Jessica (Ryan) Luscombe, Megan Grzybowski (Eric Ottati), CJ (Amanda) Grzybowski, Alex (Margaret) Resk, Mandy (Matt) Maletzke, Sam (Kate) Resk, Hayley Resk (Matt Danziger), and Emma (Sean) Paterson. He was a cherished great-grandfather to Savannah (Ronnie Masters), Brian (Taylor Haddon), Megan, and Hunter Carr; Julia (Garrett) Norris-Smith, Hayden (Nori), Max, and Cooper Norris; Logan, Emmett, and Cora Meador; Mackenzie and Ethan Meador; Brody and Calvin Luscombe; Elowen, Myles and Daisy Grzybowski; Jack and Lily Resk; Kennedy and Madden Maletzke; and Bennett Resk. He was also a proud great-great-grandfather to Wren and August Smith; and Casper and Gray Norris.
Erwin was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marlene Joyce Resk. Their partnership was the foundation of their family and a lasting example of love and commitment.
Erwin proudly served his country in the United States Navy, with Marlene faithfully by his side during those years. Following his service, Erwin and Marlene built a life rooted in entrepreneurship and hard work, owning and operating "Golf Fore Fun" miniature golf course and the Colonial Sweet Shoppe in Roseville, Michigan. He took great pride in his work, and in providing for his family.
Erwin enjoyed many simple pleasures in life-golfing, playing Cribbage and Blackout, and watching favorite movies and "Friends" with Marlene. He was known for entertaining the family children with "Dad Jokes," and magic tricks, writing a book about his beliefs on Jesus' message, and personalizing lawn signs he sold at craft shows.
Above all, Erwin's life revolved around his family. He was immensely proud of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, and nothing brought him greater joy than seeing them thrive. His legacy lives on through each of them.
A memorial service and interment will follow at a later date at Great Lakes National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Autism Alliance of Michigan.
Lovingly Written by the Family