Gary Clinton Hedberg, 69, of Ishpeming, went home to his Creator, Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Wednesday evening, October 6, 2021 at UP Health System-Bell.

Gary was born August 5, 1952, in Newberry, Michigan, to the late Clinton and Margaret (Swanson) Hedberg. He graduated from Newberry High School in 1970 and went on to earn a Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering as well as 2 Associate Degrees in Mechanical, Draft & Design Engineering from Lake Superior State University.

On June 4, 1977, he was united in marriage to Virginia Schaefer in Lakefield, MI. This union blessed the couple with three children whom they raised in Ishpeming.

 

Gary was employed as a Mechanical Engineer for 34 years at CCI. There he successfully designed and oversaw numerous projects benefiting the Republic, Tilden, and Empire mines. He retired as a Senior Engineer from CCI but continued to work another 5 years at U.P. Fabricating Co. where he was contracted frequently by the mines for his outstanding engineering services. Gary completely retired in 2014, but never stopped sacrificially serving his family, friends, and neighbors.

 

Gary firmly trusted in God's love and the forgiveness he found through his friendship with Jesus. He faithfully attended and served his church. He was a devoted husband, wonderful father, beloved “Bumpa,” and friend to everyone he met. Gary loved the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping with family, watching football games, and attending stock car races.

Known for his kindness, friendliness, excellent work, and compassion, Gary cared for people the way he knew Jesus cared for him. He will be dearly missed. The kindness he shared lives on in the hearts of all his family and friends.

 

Gary is survived by his wife, Virginia Hedberg; children Raymond (Rachel) Hedberg of Ishpeming; Melissa (Ben) Bursack of Ishpeming; and David (Bethany) Hedberg of Holland, MI; 9 grandchildren, Chamonix, Elias, Valdez, Meribel, Claire, Caleb, Cadie, Carolyn, and baby-on-the-way; siblings, Vickie (Mike) Gould of Anthem, AZ; Sandy (Bud) Burke of Newberry, MI; and sister-in-law Betsy Hedberg of Neenah, WI.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clinton and Margaret Joyce Hedberg; and his brother, Steven Hedberg.

 

A funeral service will be held on Monday, October 25, 2021 at 3 pm at Calvary Baptist Church in Negaunee with Pastor Randy Reed officiating. Visitation will be held at the church from 1:30 pm until the time of the service. The burial will take place Tuesday, October 26, at 1 pm in the West Lakefield Township Cemetery, McMillan, MI.

 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to non-profit WHWL Radio at 130 Carmen Drive, Marquette, MI 49855 or www.whwl.net; non-profit Care Clinic at 1213 N. Third Street, Marquette, MI 49855 or careclinicmqt.org

 

Canale& Pennock Funeral Service in Ishpeming is assisting the family where memories may be shared at canalepennock.com