Ethan Patrick Mroz, 16, of Gaylord, drowned Saturday, August 15, 2009, off the shores of Lake Michigan near the mouth of Brevort River. He was carried to deep waters by a rip current and unable to return himself to safe waters. His grandfather, Patrick Dipzinski, 66, also of Gaylord, drowned while trying to save him.

He was born to Leah and Dan Mroz June 9, 1993, in Gaylord. This fall, he would have been a junior at Gaylord High School. In the future, Mr. Mroz wanted to join the U.S. Marine Corps.

The grandfather and grandson shared a close bond and enjoyed camping and hunting together.

He is survived by his parents; a brother, Dan Mroz; a nephew, Daniel Mroz; grandmothers Lois Mroz and Mary Dipzinski; three aunts, Kym, Darlene, and Linda; two uncles, Jim Cagno and David Mroz, and a cousin, Connor Dipzinski-Cagno.

Mr. Mroz will be honored at a small service at the home of Mary Dipzinski later this week.

Nelson Funeral Home of Gaylord assisted the Mroz family with arrangements.