William Carl Schlak

1942 - 2025

William Carl Schlak
Frankfort, MI
08/20/1942 - 09/01/2025
William "Bill" Carl Schlak, 83, of Frankfort, MI, passed away peacefully in hospital on September 1, 2025.
Bill was born on August 20, 1942, in Hillman, MI, to Otto and Marjorie (Torpy) Schlak. He married Diane (Barrie) Connon of Hillman on April 19, 1965, and together they welcomed their first son, Curtis William, later that year. Bill proudly served his country in the U.S. Army as a member of the 82nd Airborne Division until November of 1966. A second son, Tracey, was born to the couple in 1967.
In 1977, Bill married Grace Krentz of Ossineke, MI. While their marriage eventually changed, the bond between them endured, and together they created many lasting memories. They loved traveling to visit friends and family across the country, building connections that remained a treasured part of Bill's life. Known and respected throughout Frankfort and beyond, Bill was a dedicated member of the American Legion Post, where he shared camaraderie and fellowship for much of his life.
From a young age, Bill found his calling on the open road, beginning his career as a truck driver for local businesses before joining St. Louis Trucking and later retiring from Leaseway Motorcar in Lansing, MI. Alongside his passion for trucking, Bill carried a lifelong love of flying. He was a true hands-on man-building his own home, fixing anything that needed mending, and cultivating gardens with care.
Bill's faith remained a cornerstone of his life. Confirmed in the Lutheran Church, he remained a devoted child of the Lord, and now rests in the eternal light of Heaven, reunited with those who have gone before him. His passing leaves a void for all who loved him, but his life will be remembered with warmth, gratitude, and celebration. Peace be with you, Bill. You are deeply loved and will be dearly missed.
He is survived by his sister, Lois (Dan) Miles of Pinconning, MI; brother, Dennis (Diane) Schlak of Gaylord, MI; sister, Linda (Russel) Dice of Davison, MI; brother, Larry Schlak of Gaylord, MI; sister, Brenda (John) Schlak of Florida; daughter-in-law, Debi (Claire) Schlak of South Lyon, MI; son, Tracey Schlak of Brighton, MI; and his beloved granddaughter, Olivia Schlak of Branchland, WV. He also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, friends along with his lifelong friend, Grace.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Kevin; his sisters, Christine and Cheryl (Schlak) Barrie; his niece Kelly Keetch; and his brother-in-law, Dan Miles.
Funeral has taken place. Burial at the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, MI. Arrangements with Jowett Family Funeral Home.