Linus "Clinton" Etienne

Linus “Clinton” Etienne, lovingly known as Clint, passed peacefully on Christmas Day, December 25, 2025, after a brief illness, surrounded by the family he so dearly loved. He was born on September 6, 1932, in Ohio.

Clint is survived by his beloved wife, Audrey; his children, Mike (Marcy), Matt, Greg (Chris), and Leslie (Scott); his grandchildren, Billy (Danielle), Tommy, Joey (Audrey), Johnny (Erin), Jennifer, and Andrew; his great-grandchildren, Caroline, Annabel, Shea, and Peyton; his brother, Doug (Jan); his sister, Carol and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Clint was raised in Bay City, Michigan, where he enjoyed an active and happy childhood. Some of his fondest memories were made during time spent at the Lambert family farm in Munger, hunting and fishing with his brother, Doug. Fifteen years later, the family was completed with the arrival of his sister, Carol.

A graduate of Bay City Central High School, Clint went on to attend Michigan State University on a scholarship for the swim team, where he competed as a freestyler. After two years, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Georgia and Alabama. Following his military service, he returned to MSU to complete his degree in Industrial Engineering. It was there that he met the love of his life, Audrey Ross, (knowing immediately she was “the one.) A year later Clint proposed, and they were married in April of 1959, beginning a remarkable partnership that would span 66 years.

Clint and Audrey welcomed four children in five years, (Mike, Matt, Greg and Leslie) and settled into a wonderful neighborhood in Plymouth, Michigan, where lifelong friendships were formed and their children thrived. A devoted and hands-on father, Clint coached, cheered, mentored, and supported his children every step of the way. That same love and encouragement extended to his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, all of whom held a special place in his heart. Clint founded Tri-Mation with two partners. This was a successful automated equipment manufacturing company serving the automotive industry. Starting at Argus Camera Company then on to an internship at GM Hydromatic Division he then put his experience in early positions to work for his own manufacturing and installing company,

In 1980, he and Audrey purchased their beloved cottage in Horton Bay, a place that became central to family life. They moved there full time in 1992 and embraced a new chapter filled with adventure. Together, they traveled extensively across the United States—including two memorable road trips to Alaska then major trips to Australia, Borneo, Africa and South and Central America, always in pursuit of birds, fish, and new experiences.

Clint and Audrey were a true team. There was nothing they could not accomplish together, including raising a close, caring family rooted in love and mutual respect. Clint was a listener with a warm presence, making friends easily wherever he went. He will be fondly remembered for his kindness, curiosity, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. The family appreciates the care Charlevoix Munson Hospital gave him the last three days of his life.

For those wishing to make a contribution in Clint’s name, please consider the Charlevoix Public Library (Charlevoixpubliclibrary.org), The Charlevoix Senior Center nutrition program (135113 Division, Charlevoix, MI 49720) or the Little Traverse Conservancy (landtrust.org).

A celebration of life will take place on Jan. 31st from 12:30 to 3 PM at the Grey Gables, Charlevoix

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.

Sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com