Paul E. Specker

Paul was born January 12, 1930, in Marquette, a son of John and Grace (Kroon) Specker. A lifelong Marquette resident, Paul grew up on the family farm where Specker Circle is now located. In his younger days, he would routinely walk up to the Marquette Golf Course and pick-up work as a caddy. During that time, Paul paid attention, learned a lot, diligently practiced, and became very skilled at the sport. As a result, Paul was a four-time club champion, runner-up six times, medalist six times and made championship flight 28 times. Paul also loved competing in golf tournaments across the U.P. making many friends along the way. And, Paul was a great teacher of the game. He taught his wife of over 50 years, Jacqueline, to play the game and she won the club championship more times than he did. Together they raised four children instilling in them a love for the game, while teaching them how to play. Eventually Paul dusted off his caddying skills and caddied for his children and nephews Kenn and Dennis Hruska in many club tournaments. Paul was eventually made a “lifelong member” of the club for which he was very honored and proud.

For over 30 years, Paul owned and operated the Harvey Inn, retiring at age 55. Paul was very social and enjoyed spending time at Vango’s where he considered the owners and staff as family, he was even featured in one of their radio ads. Paul loved visiting with people, made countless friends wherever he went, and often referred to those he met as “cousins” or “pals”. Paul enjoyed spending time in Florida and Texas in the winter, making more friends there. He was very generous giving to numerous local and national charities. Paul was also a member of the Elks Lodge B.P.O.E 405, an avid Packers fan and season ticket holder.

Paul is survived by his four children, Sally (Mike) Barker of Plano, TX, P.J. (Kim) Specker and Mary Jo (Jim) Stuart all of Marquette, and Kelly (Ron) Strassburger of Green Bay; four grandchildren, Brett and Erin Specker of Marquette, Emily and Jamie Strassburger of Lincoln, NE; a very special niece and friend, Janet Hruska of Marquette, and numerous other nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by his wife, Jacqueline (Cooney) Specker whom he married in 1950, and his brother, Jack.

In memory of Paul, please visit your local tavern/eatery, raise a glass to Paul and remember to tip your wait staff really, REALLY well. Or, if it’s more your style, please consider a donation to UPAWS (Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter), P.O. Box 968, Marquette, MI 49855, as numerous family pets, both past and present, brought him so much joy over the years.

Honoring his request, a celebration of life is being planned for late summer.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com.