Albert J. Claeys, 89, of Quanicassee, our wonderful and loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend was born into eternal life on the morning of Thursday, June 13, 2013 at Hiland Cottage in Petoskey. Albert was born in Bay City on February 28, 1924, the son of the late Simon and Bertha (Van Raes) Claeys. On July 24, 1948, Albert was united in marriage in St. John the Evangelist Church to his beloved wife, the former Cecelia Bruneel. After nearly 55 years of marriage, Cecelia preceded Albert in death on April 8, 2003. As a proud and patriotic citizen, Albert would go on to serve with the U.S. Marine Corps during Iwo Jima. He was a dedicated and lifelong member of the Fairgrove V.F.W. Post 7486. Albert retired from General Motors as a welder. He enjoyed spending time at his cabin on Otsego Lake, gardening and being outdoors. His greatest joy was being around his family, whom he loved dearly. Albert’s memory will live on for generations to come. He leaves to cherish his memory his two children, Dan and wife, Carol Claeys and Kathy and husband, Tom Fulco. He was the proud and loving grandpa of Melissa, Eric, Danielle, David, Tim, Angie, Jason, Wendy, Kim, Dawn and several great-grandchildren. Albert is also survived by his sister, Pauline and several in-laws, nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and his wife, Albert was welcomed home to heaven by his son, Jim; granddaughter, Tammy and sister, Leona. Albert’s family will be present to receive visitors on Sunday, June 16, 2013 from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and again on Monday, June 17, 2013 from 9:00 a.m. until the time of his funeral ceremony at 10:00 a.m. at Skorupski Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 955 N. Pine Rd., Hampton Twp. Fr. Ricky Varner will officiate with interment to follow in Wisner Twp. Cemetery with military honors. Memorial contributions in memory of Albert may be directed to the wishes of the family.