Baraca Dell Gemmell

Baraca Dell Gemmell, a woman of remarkable independence and boundless spirit, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2025, at McLaren Bay Region. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and cherished memories.

Born on May 8, 1935, in Detroit, Michigan, Baraca graduated from Oxford High School, where her vibrant personality began to shine.

Baraca lived with unwavering devotion to her family and friends. She had a genuine passion for connecting with others and found joy in every visit with loved ones, lighting up each gathering with her warmth. Her zest for life was evident in her many hobbies—drawing, bird watching, gardening, fishing, and playing Scrabble. Her deep love for the outdoors nourished her soul and often drew her to nature's quiet beauty. 

Family was the center of Baraca's world. She took immense pride in her sons, Mark (Lisa) Sanderson, Mark McKinney, Grant (Dawn) McKinney, and Matt (Judy) McKinney. William H McKinney, father of Mark, Grant, and Matt McKinney, preceded her in death. She also cherished her stepchildren, Michael Gemmell, Missy Gemmell, Meredith Brown, and Tom Gemmell. She cherished her grandchildren—Aaron, Daniel, Sandy, Michael, Alexis, Justin, Kyle, Brandon, Cadee, Savannah, and Hailey—and her many great-grandchildren, all of whom could count on her unwavering love and support.

 Baraca shared a deep and enduring bond with her beloved husband, Lewis, the love of her life. Together, they built a life rooted in love and shared purpose. Baraca often supported Lewis in his construction work, and they were well known in their community. Until his passing in 2019, Lewis was the heart of the Oscoda County Public Library, where Baraca often volunteered by his side.

She was a devoted sister to Elsner (Robert) Cullison and Martin (Suzi) Barr, and a caring sister-in-law to Char Craig. She dearly loved her nieces and nephews—Brad Cullison, Becca Burgess, Angela (Jeff) Willford, Naomi Roberts, and Martin (Ellen) Barr Jr.—and built lasting bonds with each of them. She also treasured her many great- and great-great-nieces and nephews, who brought additional joy to her life.

Baraca's kind and generous spirit drew many cherished friends into her life, including Verna Gellette, Ann (Randy) Esch, Beth Barron, Amy (Dirk) Knepp, Crystal (Dan) Bailey, Jim Burgei, Mary Bennettee, and Anna (Bob) Beltz. Their friendship was a source of deep joy throughout her life. Despite experiencing profound loss—including her son Mark McKinney, stepdaughter Missy Gemmell, and sister-in-law Suzi Barr—Baraca faced grief with quiet resilience, drawing strength from the love surrounding her. 

As we honor the life of Baraca Dell Gemmell, we remember a woman who lived with courage and loved with her whole heart. Her independence, warmth, and generous spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her. Though deeply missed, her legacy is a lasting reminder of the enduring power of love and connection. 

A memorial/celebration of Baraca’s life will be planned soon.