Gale R. Esch, age 91 of Mecosta, passed away Sunday, May 4, 2014 in Grayling. He was born January 9, 1923 in Remus, the son of Alvin and Gertrude (Godbold) Esch. Gale graduated from Remus High School in 1941. He was honorably discharged from the United States Navy after serving for six years during World War II. Gale then furthered his education at Ferris State University achieving his Architectural Drafting Degree. He grew up in Remus and on October 19, 1946, he married Hazel "Marie" Starr from Big Rapids. Together they made their home in Lansing until Gale retired, moving back to the Mecosta area more than 20 years ago. He was a master gardener, enjoyed building and woodworking and was a member of the Big Rapids AmVets Post 1941. Gale was very active in his church, the Pine Grove Tabernacle, and the Mecosta County Commission on Aging. He was very involved with his family and will be greatly missed. Gale is survived by three children, Natalie (Dale) Majeski of Kalkaska, Paul (Jody) Esch of DeWitt and Jeff (Tracy) Esch of DeWitt; grandchildren, Melanie, Jamie and wife Alicia, Jason and Fiance Moana, Andy and wife Kristen, Heather and husband J.J., Sara and husband Ben, Jeff, Christopher and wife Tina, Eric and wife Tiffini; great-grandchildren, Nicolas, Alexis, Talia, Emerson, Eliza, Sylvia, Sophia, Lorna, Bella, Faith, Jewel, Mia, Liam, Lila, Lauren, Clayton, Macy and Henry; many nieces and nephews. Gale was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Hazel "Marie" Esch on December 4, 2010; nine brothers and sisters; and his parents. Funeral services will take place at 12:00 p.m. (noon) on Wednesday, May 7, 2014 at the Pine Grove Tabernacle, on the corner of M-66 and Garfield Road (North of Remus), with Pastor Darwin Mowat officiating. The family will greet friends from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service at Noon at the Church. Burial will be at Wambolt Cemetery in Remus. Memorial contributions may be made in Gale's name to the Mercy Manor of Grayling, 1100 East Michigan Avenue, Grayling, MI, 49738, or National Multiple Sclerosis Society.