James W. Hoak, 80, Merritt, died Feb. 3, 2010, at Grayling Mercy Hospital.

 

Christler Funeral Home, Houghton Lake Chapel, handled arrangements. Private memorial services will be held in the spring at Roscommon Township Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to The Brook Retirement Community of Houghton Lake. Condolences may be shared at www.christler-holdship.com.

 

Mr. Hoak was born May 27, 1929, in Mt. Pleasant, to the late George and Theresa (Campbell) Hoak. He and Nancy Schultz were united in marriage Aug. 13, 1955,in Saginaw. His wife preceded him in death. 

 

He had served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army in the late 1950’s and went on to start a career in education. He received his master’s degree in education from the University of Michigan. He was a teacher and counselor for many years before he retired from Caro Community Schools in 1984. 

 

He and his wife, Nancy, moved to the Merritt area from Caro in 1989. He was a member of the Michigan Education Association and the National Education Association.

 

Surviving are many friends, including his dear neighbors of many years, Tom and Dawn Dean.