| Graduation Year | Class of 1986 |
| Date of Passing | Aug 06, 2008 |
| About | As announced on MLIVE.com 08/07/08 Bret J. Wilmarth WILMARTH, Bret J. Age 40 Of Kalamazoo Our beloved son, brother and uncle, Bret, passed away suddenly at Borgess Medical Center on Wednesday, August 6, 2008. Bret was born on May 12, 1968 in Portage where he graduated from Portage Central High School in 1986. Bret's love of sports started at an early age and followed him throughout his life. He played football, basketball, and baseball in high school and played baseball at Southwestern Michigan College. He especially enjoyed the years he coached the 15 & 16 year- old summer Rathco baseball team with best friend, Courtney Jasiak. He started playing golf later in his life and continued until his death. As hard as it was, he remained a die-hard Detroit Lions fan throughout his life. Bret was employed as Assistant Superintendent at Gull Lake View Golf Course. He leaves behind to treasure his memory his mom and dad (Joe and Judy); two sisters and brothers-in-law Amy and Paul Melwiki and Tiffany and Randy Verburg; his very special little ones, nephew Benjamin Melwiki and nieces Taylor and Samantha Verburg; uncles and aunts, Jack and Lynne Minckler, Joan and Jack Harmens and Zadie Jackson; several cousins and very special friend and his wife, Courtney and Colette Jasiak. Bret will be remembered the most for his wonderful humor and huge heart. Two weeks prior to his surgery, he was the one who kept his entire family going. In accordance with his wishes, his organs have been donated to the Gift of Life. Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be Friday, August 8, 2008 from 6:00-9:00 PM at PARCHMENT-REDMOND Funeral Home 2300 East G Ave. - 349-7735 where Funeral Services will take place at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 9, 2008, Father John Grathwohl officiating. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Greater Kalamazoo. |
