Obituary of Donald "Buck" Betz
Donald Betz was born in Dundee, Michigan on July 20, 1956. He was the son, born from the union of Donald A. Betz and Marlene (Haggard) Betz. Donald gained an education from Dundee Community Schools, graduating high school with the class of 1974.
Buck, as he was commonly known, married the love of his life, the former Karen Zawadzki, in Dundee on September 7, 1996. They were blessed with the blending of four daughters. He provided for the needs of his family as a C & C Machinist (Operator) for over thirty-five years. Above all, Buck treasured his family. He shared an unbreakable bond with his wife, Karen, never uttering the word "no", except when it came to his cable subscription. He had a special place in his heart for his grandchildren, creating lifelong memories through camping trips to the Yogi Bear KOA and Sandy Pines. These cherished moments together allowed him to bask in the happiness of family and showcased his love and dedication as a grandfather.
Buck would make it a point to start out his day reading the Bible and spending time with the Lord, followed by an amazing breakfast, then topped off with his coffee on the front porch.
As his health declined, his walk with the Lord strengthened and his faith never waivered through it all. He knew, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
Buck, was a passionate Sports fan. He looked forward to the fall football season, especially University of Michigan Football and the Detroit Lions. He enjoyed cheering on his teams, through good times and bad, with unmatched fervor year after year. With an immense commitment to his soon-to-be spouse and a love for the game he held dear, Buck even strategically aligned his wedding plans to coincide with a football-free weekend. It wasn't until years later that he revealed the reason behind his meticulously chosen date. Buck's dedication to both his future wife and his sports teams was a testament to unwavering lengths he traversed.
Buck was also a devoted fan of the Detroit Tigers. Among the team's roster, Buck specifically enjoyed watching Miguel Cabrera on the field. His love for sports was unparalleled, and his wealth of knowledge on game statistics made him an invaluable resource for those around him.
Beyond his adoration for sports, Buck had a talent for grilling. He took great pride in preparing mouthwatering steaks with mushrooms, earning him the well-deserved nickname of "grill master."
In his free time, Buck found solace on the golf course. He enjoyed teeing off at local courses, Bedford Hills Golf Club, Legacy by Arthur Hills Golf Club, and Dundee Golf Club. He especially relished the opportunity to participate in fundraising outings. With his love of golf and his passion for helping others, Buck made these outings an important part of his life.
Donald Betz, age 67, of Lambertville passed away at 1:17pm on Friday; August 18, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his family. His passing was preceded by his parents. To cherish his memory, he leaves his wife of twenty-seven years: Karen; four daughters: Crystal (Andrew) Mawer, Jessica (Patrick) Conrad, Niki Betz, and Marie (Jeremy) Revard; eight grandchildren: Elizabeth, Graeden, Rebecca, Brock, Grant, Ram, Colton, and James Buck; and a sister: Jody (Rich) Miller.
Friends may gather from 3:00pm until 8:00pm on Monday; August 21, 2023, at Merkle Funeral Service, Dundee; 297 Tecumseh Street, Dundee, Michigan 48131 (734) 529-3156. A Celebration of His Life will be held at 11:00am at Merkles’s on Tuesday, August 22, 2023, led by his sister-in-law: Pastor Sharon Barnsdale. Procession will follow to Maple Grove Cemetery for interment. There will be a reception following at St. John Lutheran Church parish hall.
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