Edward J. Challenger

Edward J. Challenger of Saginaw, Michigan, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother passed away Thursday, April 11, 2013 at Rhoda's House Adult Foster Care Home. Age 81 years. The son of the late Edward and Anna (Varney) Challenger, Edward was born April 13, 1931 in Saginaw, Michigan. He was formerly married to Elaine (Smith) Challenger who predeceased him May 30, 2010. Ed was employed at Consumers Energy for over 43 years until his retirement in 1993 and was a past member of State Street United Methodist Church. He enjoyed gardening and being outdoors.

Surviving are one daughter and one son, Katherine Challenger and her husband Steven Dukarski, Saginaw; James Challenger, Roseville; grandchildren, Mark (Trisha) Stabek, Noah (Carrie) Stabek, Jeremy Challenger and Jennifer Wajer, Christopher Dukarski, Jeremy Dukarski; three great-grandchildren, Amber and Jamie Kocks and Mark James Stabek; two sisters, Wanita (Gerald) Kubik and Pearl (Donald R.) Merlone; and many other loving and caring family members. Edward was preceded in death by three brothers, Lawrence, Eli and Russell Challenger.

Ed's family extends their appreciation and gratitude to Hometown Hospice Care and the caring staff and residents of Rhoda's House Adult Foster Care Home who were a true blessing to them.

Funeral service will take place 12:00 noon Tuesday, April 16, 2013 at Porter Free Methodist Church, 2411 W. Pine Road, Breckenridge, Michigan, 48615. Rev. Ron Frederick will officiate. Honoring Mr. Challenger's wishes, cremation will follow. Friends may call at The Snow Funeral Home, 3775 N. Center Rd., (between Shattuck and McCarty), where the family will be present on Monday from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and at Porter Free Methodist Church on Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. until time of service. There will be a Prayer Service 6:00 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the wishes of the family.