Royce Ralph Britenfeld

Royce Ralph Britenfeld, 72, of Benton Harbor, MI, went home to reside with his Heavenly Father on July 20, 2017, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph, MI surrounded by his wife and children after a valiant fight against cancer. A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, July 25, 2017 at 11:30 A.M. at Starks and Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph, MI with Pastor Michael Roth officiating. Burial will follow at North Shore Memory Gardens. Friends may visit with the family from 10:30 A.M. Tuesday until time of service at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.  Royce was born on October 30, 1944 to Ralph and Lydia (Priebe) Britenfeld in Benton Harbor, MI. He graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1962.  Royce married the love of his life, Kay, on July 25th, 1964. He worked in customer service for several companies including: Whirlpool, Sundstrand, Modine and more recently United Store Fixtures before he retired.  Royce enjoyed maintaining a beautiful and meticulous lawn, feeding the birds, and sitting in a sunny spot in his yard.  He was an avid sports fan supporting the Chicago Cubs to a World Series victory, U of M football, and especially his grandchildren competing in their own games. He loved living life and spending time with his beloved wife and family – taking several trips to Disney World and Alaska last year.  Royce is survived by his wife, Kay; children, Susan (Frank) Zvonar of Coloma, Philip (Janay) Britenfeld of Berrien Springs, Jodi (John) Lute of Coloma, and Thomas (Mary) Britenfeld of Grand Rapids; fifteen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Evelyn Nerenberg and Lorraine Cary.