Henry Howard Colby

There will be a private family memorial to be determined at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation may be made to Henry's grandchildren for their future education at GoFundMe.. https://gofund.me/393ba474

Henry was passionate about knowledge, cooking, sailing, football and working with his hands. His daughters Andrea and Kristen have very fond memories of their father who could make or fix anything. He once made them skateboards out of recycled roller skate wheels and wooden cutouts. Insisting his daughters wear head-to-toe safety gear whenever they were working on something with him, Henry earned the well deserved name of "Safety Dad ''; a nickname that stayed with him throughout his life. He loved being near the water and sailing his boat - the Gitchee Gumee. An avid sailor, Henry loved to coast along the North Channel with Sally and explore destinations unknown beyond their favorite local coves and cottages. He was incredibly creative and could turn any rough idea or sketch into reality. He loved camping with his family, skiing in Colorado, scuba diving in Mexico and traveling cross country in an RV. He was a master scuba diver and spent many days and nights enjoying the beauty of the tropics.

In 1982, Henry graduated with a Bachelor Degree from The University of Michigan in the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts. A dedicated and loyal professional in media, Henry worked for over 35 years at WDIV Channel 4 in Detroit, Michigan. He wore many hats, not only as Lighting Director, and Scenic Director but also as Production Manager for all outdoor events at the station, including Channel 4 Fireworks and Thanksgiving Day parades.

Recently retired, Henry and his wife Sally enjoyed many vacations on Harsens Island and at their lake cottage in Lexington, Michigan. They loved simply sitting on their porch together watching Lake Huron Freighters slowly make their way North over the glistening, glassy waters. Whether on a hot summer day or a balmy summer evening at sunset, this ritual became their favorite pass time. Henry loved creating art and designed unique wooden wall hangings cleverly coined, "Phatt Phish". His colorful and often comedic fish faces are a big hit with locals and family alike. As a devoted, loving husband, Henry was thoughtful, gentle, kind and patient. He often gave unexpected gifts or cheerful notes and never lost sight of his child-like enthusiasm for life and love.

Henry is survived in life by his wife, Sally Colby, his daughters Andrea Lugo (Nick Lugo), Kristen Colby (Jon Gilbert), Jennifer Bierkle (Jason Bierkle), Jill Maks (Christopher Maks), his son, Mark Snethkamp Jr. (Sara Lutz), his grandchildren Jake, Nicholas, Margot, Benjamin, Alivia, Boudie, Charlotte, Brady and Markie III. His loving sisters, Jane Emerson (preceded in death by Jon Emerson), Nancy Hoff (Dave Hoff), Mary Asmus (Tom Asmus) as well as many loving cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Henry is preceded in death by his mother, Ella Elizabeth Law, his father, Howard Rex Colby and his brother in law, Jon Emerson.

The family of Henry would like to thank all of the people who cared for him and friends who supported them in the few short weeks before he passed from this life into more life, with our loving Lord and Savoir.