Dr. Lynn Church

Dr. Lynn Howard Church age 78, of Alma, Michigan, left to meet his Savior on Saturday, July 9, 2016, at Schnepp Health Care Center, St. Louis, MI.

Lynn was born in Alma, Michigan on August 7, 1937, the son of Orville and Naoma (Lewis) Church.  He resided most of his life in Alma, MI and was a member of the Alma First Church of God.

Lynn graduated from Alma High School in 1955; he then attended Alma College.  He graduated from Southern College of Optometry, Memphis, TN in 1962. After teaching there for a year, he opened his Optometric office in Alma in October 1963.  On December 31, 1964, Lynn married the former Sharon Sears of Midland.  She joined him in his office as his office nurse the following August.

Lynn had many interests; he enjoyed entertaining people as a magician.  He and Sharon bought professional chocolate making equipment and then they made chocolate at home for many years.  Lynn loved spending time with his family. He also enjoyed gardening in his backyard.

He is survived by his wife Sharon, daughters; Jill (Jeff) Kopish of Park City, UT and Bonnie (Mark) Kirkpatrick of Paw Paw, MI, grandchildren; Bryce and Sean Kopish of Park City, UT, Ian, Cameron, Kolleana, and Abigael Kirkpatrick of Paw Paw, MI, sisters; Joan (Ron) Wilson of Kalkaska, MI, Carol (Larry) Walker of Alexandria, IN, and Colleen (Tim) Boyer of St. Louis, MI.  Lynn is also survived by many nieces and nephews and his two cats.  Lynn was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and his sister Sharon Elaine.

Visitation will be held at the First Church of God, 200 W. Superior, Alma, MI, 48801, on Saturday, July 16, 2016 from 1:00 - 3:00 P.M.  A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 P.M., with Rev. Steve Wimmer officiating.  A Luncheon will follow at His Place.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alma First Church of God, St. Louis Church of God Campgrounds or Patient Equipment Locker.  Online condolences may be made at www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com.  The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, St. Louis, MI.