Walter "Walt" Macklin

Walter “Walt” Macklin, age 79, of Hartland, went to be with his Savior, Jesus Christ, on August 11, 2022. Walt’s family and friends will gather Saturday, August 27, 11am-12:30pm with a memorial service following at 12:30 at Sharp Funeral Home in Fenton, Pastor Kato Hart, Jr. presiding. Walt was born on January 8, 1943, in Detroit, the only son of Walter William Macklin and Marguerite Mabel (Collison) Macklin. Losing his father at the age of 14 began to shape him into the man that he would become. Walt spent his childhood exploring the streets of his neighborhood in Redford, MI, and anyone who knew him has heard many stories of the reckless, hilarious things he and his friends conjured up. He graduated from Redford High School in 1962 and later married his high school sweetheart, Shirley Manzo, in 1965. In 1976, Walt and Shirley moved their four children to Hartland, but his heart always remained in Detroit and he took frequent trips back to revisit the places he explored as a boy. Walt was the proud founder of Design Comfort Co., a commercial/ industrial ventilation company. Walt was an extremely talented woodworker, and he could often be found in his barn spinning bowls or building tables. He was an avid collector of classic cars, and he loved to watch “Hockey Night in Canada” on Channel 9. Walt was very proud of his Scottish heritage, and he mischievously interrupted his wife’s large Italian family reunion and the renewal of their marriage vows with a hired bagpiper and Scottish dancers. Walt was incredibly generous and anyone who knew him will remember his love of humor, Boston coolers, coffee, and hummus mixed into his chicken soup. Walt always had a story to tell, whether it was all true or was slightly embellished for the enjoyment of his audience. Special thanks to the wonderful staff at Hummingbird Senior Care and to Penny Sherwood, faithful nurse and caregiver through the years. Walt is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Shirley; his four children, Christine (Pete) Rossi, David (Jennifer) Macklin, Wayne (Shawn) Macklin, Chris (Janice) Macklin; his 14 grandchildren; and his 3 great-grandchildren with another on the way. He was preceded in death by his father in 1957, and his mother in 1994. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to Fenton Center of Hope. Walt’s favorite verse was Matthew 6:33, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.” Enjoy eternity in the Kingdom, Pops!