Alan “Al” E. Mantel
Alan “Al” E. Mantel, 77, of Rogers City, died Sunday, June 2, 2024, at Medilodge of Rogers City. Born in Detroit February 5, 1947, Alan was the son of Edward and June Mantel. After graduating from high school, Al was drafted into the U.S. Army where he served as crew chief for his unit in Vietnam. He was a lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 5585 in Emmett.
Al first met the love of his life, Joanne “Jo” Stankewitz, when she was caring for his mother. June had a special fondness for Joanne and was instrumental in setting-up their first meeting. Al and Jo married October 20, 1984, in Warren but unfortunately their “first” marriage ended in divorce. After several years apart, they rekindled their relationship, and married for the “second” time May 2, 1997, in St. Clair Shores. And though they had a lapse of a few years, Al and Jo were truly soulmates who made a beautiful life together. They made their home in Clawson until 2005 when they moved to Presque Isle County in northern Michigan.
Construction and carpentry were Alan’s vocation, passion, and a very large part of his identity. He began his career in the carpenters’ union where he worked for many years before retiring, only to go into the construction business for himself in the greater Detroit area, and later in northern Michigan. After working all day on a job, Al would spend his evenings making drawings for his projects, putting together supply lists, and planning for the next day’s work or an upcoming build. Skilled and articulate, he was an excellent carpenter who worked hard and found great satisfaction in a job well done. He never really retired as he continued doing carpentry until his health would no longer allow him to work.
Alan enjoyed woodworking, projects around his home and each summer grew the most amazing vegetable garden. He had a hearty appetite for a good meal and especially loved Jo’s home cooking. With his adventurous palate, there wasn’t anything he wouldn’t try. He was well-liked and made friends easily. Al was one of those people who always seemed to have a connection with others. He had many dear friends including those he grew up with in the old neighborhood, pals from high school, and co-workers from his years in the carpenters’ union. Very loyal, Al made it a point to stay in touch and was a friend for life. A bit of a goofball, Al was funny, appreciated good humor, and often referenced one of his favorite shows, “Seinfeld.”
Devoted to his family, Alan was a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and uncle. He had a wonderful relationship with his parents and was especially close with his father. It didn’t matter if they were working or relaxing, they always made it fun and enjoyed each other. Al’s role as a father and grandfather was of the utmost importance to him. He looked forward to visits from his grandchildren and taught them (by his example) work ethic and how to provide for their families. He shared a special bond with each of his children and grandchildren and took an active role in their lives. As a husband, Al’s love for Joanne was unwavering. He respected her, was supportive, and made her laugh. Alan and Joanne adored each other; their powerful unity made them best friends, partners, and confidants with a relationship that grew stronger with each year.
A hardworking man of strong character, Al leaves his wife, Joanne of Rogers City; daughters, Cheryl (Mike) Sabina of Almont, Amy Mantel (Chuck Bruning) of Bolton and Lisa Mantel (Stephani
Al was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and June; and his in-laws, Edward and Rosemary Stankewitz.
As were Al’s wishes cremation has taken place and there will be no services. He will be honored by his family privately. Those planning an expression of sympathy please consider a donation in memory of Alan to the Wounded Warrior Project (https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org) or to any organization that helps veterans.