Gale Clare Betz

     Gale Clare Betz, age 86, of St. Johns, MI, passed away Monday, June 12, 2023, at his home.

     Cremation will take place and a private celebration of his life will be held.  Burial will take place at North Star Cemetery, North Star, MI.

     Gale was born in Gratiot County, Michigan on June 7, 1937, the son of Clare Ernest and Vivian Irene (David) Betz.  Gale graduated from Ashley High School, with the class of 1955.  He married Nancy Lee Foote on September 6, 1958, at Ashley United Methodist Church.  They were married sixty-three years prior to her passing away on August 4, 2022.   Gale served his country in the U.S. Army.

     Gale and Nancy resided in Bannister, MI for forty years until moving to St. Johns in 2005.  They enjoyed spending winters in Crystal River, Florida.  Gale retired from General Motors in 1993.  Spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him great joy. 

     He is survived by his children: Richard and Nancy Betz of Montrose, MI; Alan and Jamie Betz of Owosso, MI; Jill and Sam Griffet of St. Johns, MI; his grandchildren: Andy and Teilia Betz, Jordyn and Micah Florida, Devin and Lindsey Betz, and Chad and Jessica Betz; nine great-grandchildren; sister Sharron Follett.  Gale was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Nancy and two sisters.

     Memorials may be made to Clinton County Senior Center, 201 E. Walker St., St. Johns, MI 48879.  Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes - Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, MI.