Frankfort, Michigan - Gilbert "Alan" Appelhof, 89, of Beulah, died peacefully in his home Dec. 13, 2021 with his wife Joanne, of 64 years and family by his side. Alan was a generous and loving man who had a wonderful life of playing in Benzie County. Whether that meant water skiing up until 72 years old, snowmobiling the trails off Cooper Road with his daughter, playing tennis with many friends, fishing with his grandson or just the fun he had living on Crystal Lake.

Alan was a true civil servant and leader in the local community, having served on numerous boards, including as president of Kiwanis Club of Crystal Lake, the Crystal Lake Water Association, now the Crystal Lake & Watershed Association and Benzie Board of Realtors. Alan also served as a State Delegate for the GOP, a deacon and elder of First Congregational Church of Benzonia and other civic and local non-profit committees.

Alan spent the last 45 years living on the north shore of Crystal Lake, where he and his family had ties back to the early 1900's. Alan was a local residential real estate broker for 30 years in Beulah, where he was a manager and consistent top producer, but he took the most pleasure in being able to help people.

Prior to his career in real estate, Alan was a Commander in the US Navy, serving for 20 years as a highly decorated officer and pilot. During Alan's time in the Navy, he flew A-4 Skyhawk and A-7 Corsair fighter-bombers from the aircraft carriers Saratoga and Forrestal, where he logged over 4,700 flight hours and 850 carrier arrested landings. His decorations included: Joint Service Commendation Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, as well as Top Aviator "Best Hit" award.

Born June 9, 1932 in Detroit, Alan spent his first school year attending Benzonia School. He went on to live in Alma and Berea, Ohio from elementary school through College at Baldwin-Wallace, where he earned a BA in 1955. His summers were spent on Crystal Lake and as a camp counselor at the National Music Camp at Interlochen.

Alan is survived by his wife, of 64 years, Joanne Appelhof; his daughter, son-in-law and Grandson, Diana, Tom and Jack Riekse; and his brother, Dave Appelhof (Diane); sister-in-law, Louise Denotter and many nieces and nephews. Alan in preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert and Hilda Appelhof; and sister, Mary Appelhof.

A funeral service will be held at 11 am on Saturday Dec. 18 at Benzonia Congregational Church, 900 Barber St. Benzonia, with Pastor Patty Higgins officiating.

The Appelhof family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Burial at Benzonia Twp. Cemetery with Military Honors under the auspices of VFW Cherryland Post 2780. The family also wishes to express its gratitude to Heartland Hospice, who provided loving care. Contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation and Wounded Warriors Project. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home, Benzonia.