Gregory Barkel Obituary

Gregory Todd Barkel passed away at the age of 67. Lovingly awaiting Greg on the morning of June 26th, 2025 were his parents, Henry and Doris (McBride) Barkel; brothers, Barry Barkel, Steve Barkel and brother-in-law, Shannon Atwood. Patiently waiting until they see Greg again is his wife of 43 years, Relinda Barkel; daughters, Jessica (Beau) Allard, Erin (Jason) Wall; grandchildren, Evelyn and Henry Allard; brother, Joel (Dawn) Barkel; sisters-in-law, Audrey Barkel, Renee Barkel, Rhonda Zimmerman, Reneta Mais, Lori Atwood; brother-in-law, Calvin (Laurie) Zimmerman and several nieces and nephews.

Greg was born in Coopersville, Michigan on May 13th, 1958. His childhood was spent fishing, hunting, and camping; his favorite of these being pheasant hunting. His parents built the cottage on Sand Lake when he was a young boy and his fondest memories of his early years were those summers on the lake. Greg enjoyed sports and played the clarinet in school. His passion for music was steadfast and his selection, eclectic.

Greg was accepted into and attended Michigan State University. Although he did not finish his degree due to his success in sales, he bled green and white the rest of his life. It was during a visit to MSU that Greg met Relinda. They were married on October 30th, 1981. Shortly after, Greg started a janitorial business that he worked for 41 years which became a second job to his role at Thomas Regout USA (later CompX). It was here that his meticulous eye and professional probity landed him the position of quality manager. After CompX closed their Michigan location, Greg explored his dream of owning a coffee shop. In the fall of 2013, that dream was realized with the opening of the Grand Haven Biggby.

Greg was a man of strong character; honesty, integrity, reliability, consistency, and showing up for others were traits in which he took pride. Greg was the keeper of our history. Details often forgotten by others were remembered by him. He could navigate roads and trails not visited since childhood. He remembered everyone he crossed paths with as if they played an important and longstanding role in his life.

Greg was a lifetime learner and never shied away from something new. He loved teaching and passing down the skills he obtained over a lifetime of doing. He was a jack of all trades and a master of many. Though successful in work, Greg’s family was his greatest achievement. He took his role as son, brother, husband, Dad, Papa, uncle, and friend most seriously. Greg loved hard and you felt the depth of his love in his hugs and in his actions. He felt pride in his loved one’s achievements and offered unyielding support in their failures.

Greg loved to travel and fell in love with sailing during his many trips to the Caribbean with Relinda. This past year and a half was spent adventuring with Relinda, the kids, and the grandkids. He was so excited to share his interests and it became important to pass on wisdom before he died – more than trips and experiences, this was his bucket list.

Greg will forever be a part of all those who knew him.

In true Greg fashion, there will not be traditional services but a Celebration of Life held on Friday, August 1st, 2025 at Grose Park in the lakeside pavilion. Fun will begin at 3pm with a playground for the kids, swimming, kayaking, fishing, yard games, and walking trails. A service will be at 4:30pm with dinner to follow. The park is wheelchair accessible with bathrooms available for changing. Please wear colorful, casual attire. Arrangements will be made at the park in case of inclement weather.

Grose Park

22200 24th Ave, Casnovia, MI 49318

In lieu of flowers, please donate to one of the following organizations in Greg’s name:

The Ocean Conservancy

www.oceanconservancy.org

Ocean Conservancy, Inc., 1300 19th Street NW, 8th Floor, Washington, D.C. 20036

Plant a Tree with the Arbor Day Foundation in memory of Greg

https://shop.arborday.org/commemorative-trees-for-others?producttype=TIM

Or make a donation to the Arbor Day Foundation

www.arborday.org

The Arbor Day Foundation, 211 N. 12th Street, Lincoln, Nebraska 68508