Delbert Batdorff

Delbert J. Batdorff, 76, of Charlevoix, went to be with his Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ unexpectedly on January 10th, 2017. He was born February 17th, 1940 to Howard and Madeline Batdorff of Sunfield, Michigan. Delbert, youngest of five children, is survived by Joyce, Donna and Lois and was preceded in death by Howard.

Delbert, a Sunfield High graduate, attended Huntington University where he met and married Carolyn Stricker, the love of his life for over 57 years. Delbert had a passion for work, which he fulfilled as a railroad fireman/engineer before pursuing his dreams by moving to Northern Michigan. In Charlevoix he channeled this passion into surveying then working as a repairman at St. Mary’s Cement Plant. In retirement he filled this passion working for Fox Motors.

Del loved John Deere tractors and hunting in Michigan and Colorado. He was enthusiastic about singing and enjoyed gospel music. He had a warm, friendly personality and could talk to anybody. He loved the outdoors, large bonfires, sharing the bountiful produce from his huge garden and spending time with family and friends.

Delbert is survived by his loving wife Carolyn and five children whom he loved and was very proud of: Deb (Randy) Magnus, Dennis, Dave (Susan), Dan (Suzanne) and Darrin (Krista).

Delbert also was proud grandfather to twelve exceptional grandchildren whom he loved dearly: Benjamin, Gabriel (Lily), and Hope Magnus; Matthew, Crystal and Naomi Batdorff; Rachel and Luke Batdorff; Wyatt and Quinn Batdorff; and Emma and Morgan Batdorff.

Visitation will be tonight, Friday, at Winchester Funeral Home 5-8:00PM and Saturday at Community Reformed Church from 12:00-2:00PM. A celebration of Delbert’s life will take place at 2:00 PM Saturday following the visitation.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:

Huntington University, 2303 College Ave., Huntington, IN  46750

Community Reformed Church, 100 Oak Street, Charlevoix, MI  49720

Munson Healthcare Charlevoix, 14700 Lakeshore Drive, Charlevoix, MI 49720.