Michael Gratz

Michael Gratz, a beloved Husband, Father, Brother, and Grandfather, passed away on January 15, 2024, at the age of 63. He was born on September 10, 1960, in Mandan, North Dakota, to the late Harry and Jeannie Gratz. Mike's passing has left a void in the hearts of all who knew him.

Mike lived a fulfilling life enriched with love, laughter, and a multitude of talents. He dedicated 25+ working years as a skilled Service Technician at Hobart Service Co., where he retired. Mike then went on to work at CGL Companies also as a Service Technician where he showcased his exceptional skills and knowledge until his untimely passing. Mike was in the Army National Guard as a Medical Specialist and he received the Expert Marksman and Expert Grenade Handler awards in basic training and an Honorable discharge. Beyond his career, Mike was a man of many interests and hobbies. He found immense joy in cooking and woodworking and loved to share his creations with his family.

Mike loved classical music and it brought him peace to play the piano. Michael also had a genuine love for football and eagerly cheered on his Minnesota Vikings, and Gophers during game nights. Mike never hesitated to lend a helping hand, and his jack-of-all-trades nature allowed him to tackle any task with expertise. His selflessness and generosity left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing him. However, above all, Mike's devotion to his family was unparalleled.

Mike is preceded in death by his parents, Harry Gratz and Jeannine C. Gratz Marcy and his sister, Emily Marcy.

He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Christy Gratz; five beautiful children: Melissa Fleischmann of Navarre, Florida, Jacqueline (Justin) Hardway of Greenbrier, Tennessee, Catherine (Les) Wellnitz of Farmington, Minnesota, Brittany (Wesley) Waddell of Dallas, Georgia, and Ashleigh (Alex) Gratz-Hartman of Forsyth, Georgia; eight Grandchildren, Nathan Fleischmann, Austin Fleischmann, Peyton Hardway, Logan Hardway, Matthew Wellnitz, Hayleigh Wellnitz, Brooklyn Waddell, Chase Hartman; Brothers, Nick (Deb) Gratz of Andover, Minnesota, Larry (Holly) Gratz of Plymouth, Minnesota, Andy (Brenda) Gratz of Dallas, Georgia; Sister, Dena Finley of Clarksville, Tennessee; and several nieces and nephews, Alexis, Jeffrey, Andrea, Rachel, Mitchell, Demetri, Lantana, Paris, Paige, Bradley, Arian, Briana, Josh, and Jacob.

The family will receive friends at Clark Funeral Home on Sunday, January 21, 2024, from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM. The Funeral Service to honor and celebrate Mike's life will be held at Clark Funeral Home in Hiram, Georgia on Monday, January 22, 2024, at 2:00 PM with Pastor Steve Flockhart officiating. Interment will immediately follow at Melrose Cemetery in Villa Rica, Georgia with Nathan Fleischmann, Austin Fleischmann, Peyton Hardway, Logan Hardway, Andy Gratz, Justin Hardway, Les Wellnitz, Wesley Waddell, and Alex Hartman serving as pallbearers and Larry Gratz, Nick Gratz, and Matthew Wellnitz serving as honorary pallbearers. 

Clark Funeral Home is honored to care for the Gratz family during this difficult time.