Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes

12/01/2025

The Life Story of Thom Martin

As friends and family gather to honor Thom Martin, we celebrate a man whose love for others ran deep. Always the kind of person to prioritize others, Thom went above and beyond to show up for the people around him. Nothing brought him more joy than time spent with his loved ones, humans and pets alike. His quick-witted sense of humor could light up any room, and his jokes—often accompanied by his own laughter—brought joy to all who knew him. Already so greatly missed, Thom will be deeply loved and forever remembered by those closest to him.

Continue reading at https://betzlerlifestory.com/obituaries/thom-martin.150640

11/28/2025

The Life Story of Robert "Bob" Schaefer

A shining role model of selflessness, Robert Schaefer had an infectious spirit and a zest for life that could be felt by all who were near. He worked hard and encouraged others to do the same, knowing that nothing in life comes easy. Bob was a devoted family man, and even the simplest moments spent surrounded by loved ones was time well spent. His willingness to humbly serve those around him allowed him to impact countless lives for the better. Life will never be the same without Bob here, but his timeless legacy will be carried on forever in the lives of those who follow in his footsteps.

Continue reading at https://betzlerlifestory.com/obituaries/bob-schaefer.150469

11/24/2025

The Life Story of Dr. Frederic W. Sammons

Dr. Frederic W. “Fred” Sammons was an inventive spirit and a guiding light in the field of occupational therapy – a man as renowned for his ingenious gadgets as for his warmth, humor and generous heart. Beloved by colleagues, students, friends and family alike, Fred had a way of making every encounter feel like a special occasion. He combined playful wit, a farmer’s resourcefulness, and an entrepreneur’s vision, living 97 years filled with creativity, compassion, and an unyielding drive to help others live more independently.

Continue reading at https://betzlerlifestory.com/obituaries/dr-frederic-w-sammons.150615

11/21/2025

https://betzlerlifestory.com/obituaries/robert-d-alford.150593

Robert D. Alford, age 92, of Paw Paw, MI died on Thursday, November 13, 2025. Robert was born on September 24, 1933, in Kalamazoo, MI to Vervel and Estelle Alford. He was preceded in

11/21/2025

https://betzlerlifestory.com/obituaries/jerold-neumann.150569

Jerold Neumann of Portage, age 90, died on November 11, 2025. Jerold was born January 21, 1935, in La Porte, Indiana to Robert and Gerrine (Slater) Neumann. He grew up in New Buffalo.

11/19/2025

The Life Story of Jace Sargent

Jace Sargent lit up every room he entered. A vibrant 10-year-old known for his smile, energy, and boundless curiosity, Jace inspired radiant laughter and instant friendships wherever he went. From beach adventures and four-wheeler rides to imaginative Lego creations and late-night snuggles with mom, he filled life with laughter, mischief, and wonder. Loved deeply by family from Michigan to Florida, Jace’s bright spirit and unforgettable joy will be cherished forever.

Continue reading at https://betzlerlifestory.com/obituaries/jace-sargent.150597

11/19/2025

The Life Story of Robert M. Beam

On Friday the 7th of November 2025, Robert M. Beam Jr. departed Kalamazoo! For those that knew Bob, you understand that this was truly a momentous day.
Always regarded as a reluctant traveler, he had two common questions ahead of any trip, “Is that further away than Paw Paw?" followed closely by "How long are we going to be away?" This was not because he didn't enjoy visiting people or other places, but because his heart was rooted in the Kalamazoo area. It was his home.

Continue reading at https://betzlerlifestory.com/obituaries/robert-m-beam.150551

11/18/2025

https://betzlerlifestory.com/obituaries/patricia-barrett.150575

Patricia Barrett, age 81, died on November 6, 2025. Patricia was born September 19, 1944, in Davenport, IA, to Jon and Ethel (Bald) Keller. Patricia was preceded in death by her parents,

11/15/2025

The Life Story of Brigid Stersic
A warm, social, and hard-working woman, Brigid Stersic cherished family, friendship, and connection. Brigid welcomed each day as a gift and every person as a friend. Known for her laughter, love of gatherings, and for her ‘gift of gab’, Brigid fully embraced humanity. She loved life and was good at everything she did, and she did a lot! No matter how busy she was, she was always engaged and available to support others. She expertly balanced a busy career, school, and family life, while actively pursuing opportunities to learn and grow. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, Brigid will long be remembered by those she knew and who so dearly loved her.

A warm, social, and hard-working woman, Brigid Stersic cherished family, friendship, and connection. Brigid welcomed each day as a gift and every person as a friend. Known for her laughter,

11/13/2025

Phillip Marble of Kalamazoo, age 89, died on November 4, 2025. Phil was born January 4, 1936 in Kalamazoo to Jack and Mona (Hopkins) Marble. Phil graduated from Western Michigan University before working toward his master’s degree at University of Arizona. He spent his career with the A.M. Todd Company in Kalamazoo. A lifelong Detroit Tigers fan, he attended many games at the old stadium. For many years he enjoyed lunch and card games at the Comstock Community Center every Tuesday. He also enjoyed many trips to the casinos in the U.P.

He was preceded in death by his brothers: Charles Marble and Donald Marble. Surviving are his wife of 61 years, Shirley; children: Joseph Marble, Andrew (Jill) Marble, and Suzanne Marble; grandchildren: Phillip, Evan, and Ella; sister, Judy; and his dog, Minnie. Cremation has taken place. A gathering will be held at a later date. Celebrate Phil’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Vincent de Paul Society or Kalamazoo Humane Society. Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900.

Phillip Marble of Kalamazoo, age 89, died on November 4, 2025. Phil was born January 4, 1936 in Kalamazoo to Jack and Mona (Hopkins) Marble. Phil graduated from Western Michigan University

11/12/2025

The Life Story of Lee Babcock

Lee Babcock, passed away unexpectedly on October 17, 2025, at just 70 years old.

Lee and his twin sister, Lynn, were born on May 4, 1955, in Lapeer, Michigan to Elwyn and Marion Babcock. He and Lynn were raised in the family home alongside their siblings, Gail, Shirley Ann, Kirk, and Joan. Lee’s father, Elwyn passed away when he was just 3 years old. Jim Duvall married Marion, becoming Lee’s stepfather and they had a close bond growing up. Lee’s childhood was filled with sports, guitar lessons, tinkering, and he always had something up his sleeve to keep everyone on their toes.

Continue reading at https://betzlerlifestory.com/obituaries/lee-babcock.150427

11/12/2025

The Life Story of Martha Ruggles

Loving, compassionate, and kind, Martha Ruggles lived a life rich in faith, family, and friends. A natural conversationalist, Martha enjoyed sharing good conversations and could talk for hours upon hours. She welcomed each day as a gift and was grateful for life's blessings. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Martha will long be remembered by those she so dearly loved.

Continue reading at https://betzlerlifestory.com/obituaries/martha-ruggles.150534