Arnold Nitz

Arnold “Arnie” Nitz died Sunday, December 23, at the age of 79, at Lakeland Hospital, St. Joseph. At the time of his death he was surrounded by his wife, children and grandchildren while he awaited and then received the best Christmas gift of all from his savior. Arnie was born in Baroda on April 17, 1928 to Emil and Emma (Melchert) Nitz. He was the owner of Baroda Lumber Company where his passion was designing and remodeling kitchens. He married Ruth Mandel of Benton Harbor on May 29, 1954. They enjoyed 53 years of a fun filled marriage. Arnie served in the United States Airforce from April 12, 1946 through April 4, 1949. He was a member of the Baroda Lions Club where he collected thousands of glasses for those in need. He also served as long time Lakeshore School Board member where he proudly handed all 3 of his children their diplomas. He was also a member of the Lakeshore Rotary Club. As a member of NCHA Blossomland Vagabonds Camping Club, Arnie, along with his family and friends enjoyed many years of camping and fun. Arnie was an avid season ticket holder sports fan for the Lakeshore teams. He also followed all of his grandchildren in their various sporting events. Arnie was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Stevensville, where he enjoyed participating in the O.W.L.S. organization, the Silver Hammers and the Dart Ball team. After retirement, Arnie and Ruth enjoyed many international vacations together and with friends. He is survived by 3 children – Cathy (Rick) Bonnett, Jeff (Jane) Nitz, and Alan (Julie) Nitz, all of Baroda; four grandchildren – Christy, Adam, Josh and Amanda Nitz; two brothers – Dr. Donald (Shirlee) Nitz of Palm Beach, FL and Dr. Gordon (Nancy) Nitz of Reno, NV, and twelve nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Emil Nitz, and sisters Dorothy Dakolios and Olga Fortino. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00AM, Friday, December 28, 2007, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 2673 W. John Beers Rd., Stevensville, with Rev. Schroer officiating. Burial will follow in Ruggles Cemetery. Friends may call on the family from 4:00 – 7:00P.M., Thursday, December 27, 2007, at Starks & Menchinger Family Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Arnie’s name to St. Paul’s Lutheran church building fund. Those wishing to send a condolence message online may do so in the guestbook at www.starks-menchinger.com