Florine Engelhardt

Florine Esther Engelhardt, 86, of Torch Lake, Clearwater Twp., passed away unexpectedly on October 2, 2024, at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. She was born on November 1, 1937, in Bay City, the daughter of John and Christina (Helmreich) Engelhardt.

Florine grew up on the family farm in Bay City, the youngest of four children. She left the farm to work on her own for many years cleaning houses. In 1990, she and her life partner, Charles “Chuck” Bliss moved to Torch Lake. The pair were married on May 31, 1997, and Chuck passed away just two short years later in 1999. 

Florine loved taking care of the landscaping at her home and tending to her flower gardens. She was so proud of her beautiful rose bushes which she invited many to admire. She also enjoyed hosting friends, neighbors, and her renters at her home for a drink or just to visit. Florine had a quick wit and would always have a new joke to share.

Florine’s faith was extremely important to her; she was a longtime member of Hope Lutheran Church in Bellaire, and rarely missed a service. 

Florine is survived by her sister-in-law, Ruth Engelhardt; five nieces and nephews, Jean Preston, Kristine (David) France, Michael (Julieann) Engelhardt, Timothy (Anne) Engelhardt, and Kathleen (Timothy) Whaley; fifteen great-nieces and nephews, and two stepchildren, Mark (Nancy) Bliss, and Lucinda “Cindy” Monroe.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Christina Engelhardt; her husband, Charles Bliss Sr.; her siblings, Adolph Engelhardt, Richard Engelhardt, and Hilda Preston; and her stepson, Charles Bliss Jr.

Memorial contributions may be made to:

 Hope Lutheran Church, PO Box 160 Bellaire, MI 49615, or Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org

Funeral services will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 14, at Hope Lutheran Church in Bellaire with Pastor Wade Seaver officiating.  Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services at 11:00.  

Arrangements are in the care of the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign her online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com