Grace Gohl

Grace Emiline Gohl, 85, of Alpena, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, September 19, 2025.

Born on June 23, 1940, in Hubbard Lake, Grace was the cherished daughter of the late Elwin and Evelyn (Shunk) Burnham.

Her life was a testament to the power of kindness, dedication, and the simple pleasures of family, gardening, and dancing. Grace’s journey began in the serene surroundings of Hubbard Lake, where she grew up with her loving siblings. She was the beloved sister of Margaret Crowl, Katherine Gnadinger, Roy (Christine) Burnham, Carrie Burnham (Allen) and the late Laura Prevost, Betty Kollien, William Burnham, Marlene Ellsworth, Mildred Harmon, Gertrude Buchler, Arthur Burnham, and Robert Burnham. Her early years were filled with the warmth of a close-knit family, setting the stage for the wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother she would become. After completing high school, Grace’s adventurous spirit led her to Washington D.C., where she began a career that would eventually take her to Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Oscoda. It was then that she met the love of her life, Charles Gohl, and together they enjoyed 62 years of marriage.

Grace’s legacy includes her devoted children: Kimberly Gohl, Pamela (Dave) Fox, and the late Brad Gohl, who each carry forward her nurturing spirit and love for family. Grace’s joy multiplied with the arrival of her grandchildren, Stehness, Shelby (Tom), Kira, Sam, and Marcus, and later her great-grandchildren, Ervin III, Kenny, and Atticus. She instilled in them the values of kindness, respect, and the importance of family bonds. Her numerous nieces and nephews also held a special place in her heart, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Throughout her life, Grace was the epitome of elegance and grace. She took great pride in her appearance, always ensuring she looked her best. Her love for gardening was evident in the vibrant blooms that adorned her home, a reflection of the beauty she brought to the world. She also enjoyed watching the wildlife. Dancing was another passion of Grace’s, and she could often be found gliding across the dance floor with a smile that could light up the room. She was a longtime member of the Alpena First United Methodist Church. Grace’s selfless nature was the cornerstone of her existence and she will be dearly missed.

Grace is at McWilliams Funeral Home where visiting hours will be held on Sunday, September 28, 2025 from 1 p.m. until the service at 4 p.m. with Rev. Robert Richards officiating. Interment will be at Pilgrims Rest Cemetery on Monday, Sept. 29th at 1 p.m.