Jack "Denny" Denyes Garber, Junior

Jack “Denny” Denyes Garber, Jr., 80, of Petoskey, passed away peacefully on September 25th, 2026, surrounded by family and friends.

A man of boundless love and generous wit, Jack was the ultimate example of what it means to live life to the fullest. At the heart of his story is his marriage of 44 years to the love of his life, Patricia (Trish) MacDonald. Their enduring partnership was one rooted in loyalty, laughter, mutual sacrifice, and unfailing devotion – setting a beautiful example for those around them. 

Jack was a proud and loving father to Jack Garber III (Ilena), Peter (Sarah), and Joey (Victoria), and grandfather to Dorothy, Blakely, Pierson, Henry, Elinor, and Campbell. Jack took great joy in watching his sons build their families and careers and always stood by them through their highs and lows. 

He was a loving brother to Randy (Sperry), Gretchen and the late Jack Vincent, and the late Timothy. He was the beloved son of the late Jack, Sr. and Dorothy.

Jack was also a proud uncle to more than a dozen nieces and nephews, whom he dearly loved. 

Across his professional life, Jack was successful in a variety of entrepreneurial pursuits. Following his graduation from Northwood University, where he competed on the Men's Golf Team, he began his professional life selling cars at the family dealership, Garber Cadillac, in his hometown of Saginaw. Later, he became a charter boat captain in Frankfort, real estate developer in Harbor Springs, and ultimately a retailer in downtown Petoskey, where he owned and operated The Whippoorwill, a fly shop and outfitter he named after his beloved family cabin on the Au Sable River.  

When he wasn’t working, Jack could be found in the woods, on the water, or on the golf course, often with his three boys by his side. 

Those who knew Jack will remember his remarkable sense of humor, zest for life, fondness for friendship, and tender heart. We are profoundly grateful for the gift of 80 years with this exceptional man. His legacy lives on in the family he built, the lives he touched, and the laughter we shared. 

A funeral service will be held Friday, October 2nd at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Childhood Church, 150 W. Main Street, Harbor Springs, MI 49740. A brunch will follow at Petoskey Bay View Country Club. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Anglers of the Au Sable or to the Jack Garber Family Fund at the Petoskey Harbor Springs Community Foundation. 

Please leave condolence for the family through https://www.stonefuneralhomeinc.com/obituary/JackDenny-GarberJunior