Henry Kulesa

Henry Joseph “Hank” Kulesa, 97, died peacefully at home on July 16, 2024, after a brief illness. 

He was born to Polish immigrants, Anthony and Martha (Narloch) Kulesa, on September 28, 1926, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Hank served in the U.S. Naval Service – Coast Guard in the Pacific theatre during World War II. He was inspired to pursue a career in music by his Muskegon High School band director. Hank earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Music from Western Michigan University. He was band director at Okemos High School and Delton High School prior to leading the Comstock High School band for 27 years.

Hank was honored as a band director by the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association in 1978. He was a member of Comstock VFW Post 6252 and often played taps at funerals and Memorial Day events. Hank met the love of his life at Baron’s Resort in South Haven, Michigan, in 1953. Hank and Gwen (Lanier) Kulesa were married on August 4, 1956. They lived an incredibly rich and interesting life together. They traveled the world for much of their 68 years together. The only continent they never visited is Antarctica, despite twice trying to get there. He loved music, travelling, hippos, learning, and spending time with his many friends all over the world. Hank had a dry, razor-sharp wit and never ceased to amuse all who were around him.

He was naturally curious and had an innocent way of asking the most awkward and uncomfortable questions - just ask his Grandkids. 

He was preceded in death by his beloved son, Andrew; his sisters, Frances and Maxine; and his niece, Ann Carter. 

He is survived by his wife, L. Gwendolyne Kulesa; daughter, Kristine (Robert) O’Hayre; his grandchildren, Meredith Kulesa, Mara Kulesa, Riley Dean, Robert O’Hayre II, and Kathryn O’Hayre; and his nieces and nephews, Anthony (Maggie) Kolenic, Paula (Ron) McPhee, Patricia (Mike) Kreiner, Jeff (Mary) Dumas, Peter (Janet) Dumas, Shanon (Andy) Stroer, and Lee (Broch) Travis. 

Visitation will be held Friday, July 26, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial and Cremation Services, 3926 S 9th Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49009.

The Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, July 27, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Augustine Cathedral. 

Interment will be at Fort Custer National Cemetery on Monday, July 29, at 10:00 a.m.