Kurt Raymond Pankau, 58 years old of Filion, was called to his eternal home in heaven on March 9, 2024, with his best friend and loving wife, Karen, by his side.

Kurt was born on August 18, 1965 in Madison Heights to the late Raymond and Jacqueline (Smith) Pankau.

On August 30, 1991, Kurt eloped with his soul mate, Karen Renee' Holz to Alpena, Mi to be married by his childhood pastor, Rev. Mario Cuppetelli.

Kurt loved to read God's word and share His good news with everyone that he met. Kurt didn't question his cancer diagnosis; he trusted in and accepted whatever God's plan was, knowing that God would be by his side throughout.

Kurt's greatest joy was being with his son Ken and sharing with him everything he had learned throughout his life; whether it be hunting and fishing, building or repairing, vehicle maintenance, or teaching him how to treat others with respect and to walk in God's light. Kurt was extremely proud of his son and took great joy in spending time with his family.

Kurt was a licensed residential builder. He owned Central Builders and also worked for several local contractors. Most recently, Kurt worked for Agri-Valley Communications, Inc. as team lead of Maintenance OPS. Kurt was an accomplished guitarist and played throughout Michigan and Ohio in several rock bands, most notably Legacy and Alibi. In recent years, Kurt used his musical talents writing songs of praise and rejoice to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Kurt is survived by his wife Karen; his loving son, Kenneth (Hannah McGahey) Pankau; mother in-law Doris Holz; brothers and sisters: Sharon (James) Lautenbach, Diane (James) Elmore, Hans (Linda) Pankau, Robert (Jackie) Collier, Yvette (Robert) Morris; in-laws: Lora Collier, Debora (Douglas) Messing, Paul (Alexandra) Holz, and many nieces and nephews.

Kurt was preceded by his parents Raymond and Jackie, brother Michael Collier and father-in law Kenneth Holz.

Funeral service for Kurt will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, March 14, 2024 at Faithway Church, 3108 Rescue Rd, Bad Axe with Pastor Mike Beeler officiating. Visitation will be on Wednesday, March 13, 2024 at MacAlpine Funeral Home in Bad Axe from 2 pm–7 pm and also on Thursday at the church from 10:00 am until the time of service.

Kurt's family would like to extend our heartfelt thank you to all of Kurt's nurses and caregivers at McLaren Thumb Region. The kindness and compassionate care they provided to Kurt in his final days is unsurpassed.

Memorials may be offered to the family discretionary fund.