Browse the obituary of Henry Butch Shonka Jr May 15 1946 December 26 2022 residing in Lapeer, Michigan for funeral burial details. Write a message of sympathy or a last tribute to perpetue the friendship thread
May 15 1946 December 26 2022
Obituary Henry Andrew Shonka, Jr., age 76, of Attica, died suddenly Monday, December 26, 2022. He was born May 15, 1946 in Detroit, to Hank and Mary (Avery) Shonka, Sr. Henry “Butch” received his bachelor’s degree from Wayne State University. He went on to have a long career as a graphic design engineer in the automotive industry…first working for American Motors and spending most of his career with Chrysler Motors. Mr. Shonka retired from Chrysler in 2001, where he worked at Chrysler World Headquarters and Technology Center. Henry had two special passions, astronomy and photography. He had several high-powered, advanced telescopes through the years and loved to study and view the planets, moons, stars, galaxies and all celestial objects. Mr. Shonka was active with the Seven Ponds Astronomy Group for many years. Henry also loved photography, he started off “shooting” everything and eventually combined his two passions…astronomy and photography! Butch had some beautiful photographs taken with the assistance of his telescope (Astrophotography). He was a true artist: whether drawing, sculpting, taking photographs or painting he had a true talent. Henry also enjoyed bowling, fitness, tinkering, tractors, gadgets, computers, computer software and technology in general. Henry is survived by his son: Tim; sister: Mary “Lucy” Tucker of Metamora; nephews: Herbert “Buddy” (Leasa) Tucker and Bill (Joddy) Tucker; niece: Melissa (Nathan Patzwaldt) Tucker; great nieces and nephews: Brian, Liam, Harrison, Ashley, Jolene and Danielle; and several dear cousins. He was preceded in death by his son: Erik Shonka; niece: Deanna Tucker; and parents: Hank and Mary Shonka, Sr.. A graveside service to celebrate Henry’s life will be held at 11AM Friday, December 30, 2022, at Metamora Cemetery on Dryden Road in Metamora. Memorial contributions are encouraged to Seven Ponds Nature Center, 3854 Crawford Rd., Dryden, MI 48428. Arrangements have been entrusted to Muir Brothers Funeral Home in Lapeer. Please share condolences and memories with the family at www.MuirBrothersLapeer.com.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Henry Butch Shonka Jr May 15 1946 December 26 2022.
Death notice for the town of: Lapeer, state: Michigan