Bedford Funeral Chapel

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Temperance, MI
Bedford Funeral Chapel

In 1954, Stanley J. Donald Brunner. He sensed ahead of his time the exodus of the city life to the growth of the suburbs. and William G. Urbanski. William G.

Urbanski, who founded Urbanski Funeral Home on Lagrange Street in Toledo shortly after WWI, purchased property at Lewis Avenue and Dean Road in Temperance, Michigan from Mr. Stanley knew at that time it was only a matter of time before people in the city of Toledo would want to move to Bedford Township to raise their families in larger homes with land for their children to grow up on. He knew that it was only a matter of time before there was a need for a larger, more accommodating, upscale funeral facility in Bedford. Ground was broken in 1968 for what is now Urbanski's Bedford Funeral Chapel. We started with one acre of ground and built an 8,000 square foot building designed for the future of funeral service. This was started as a collaboration with Stanley J., William A. Three generations of funeral directors in the Urbanski family were involved. Urbanski graduated in March of 1969 from The Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science, was named Resident Manager and moved into the facility which started operations in October, 1969. Three months later due to the need for ambulance service in the area, the Bedford Chapel Ambulance Service was begun by William G. With the help of volunteers from the Bedford Fire Department, hundreds of lives were saved over the many years. The now 12,000 square foot facility is the largest and most accommodating funeral establishment in the area, with the best prices available. We have also entered our 4th generation of licensed funeral directors, with Eric J. Urbanski receiving his Bachelor's Degree in Mortuary Science from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science in 2009.

11/05/2025

Eileen May Albright
August 30, 1931 - November 3, 2025

Eileen May Albright, age 94, who was a 33-year survivor of breast cancer, passed away peacefully from natural causes at home in Morgantown, Indiana on November 3, 2025.
Eileen was born on August 30, 1931, to the late Harold M. and Norma E. (Underwood) Rodenberger. She graduated in 1949, from Harriet Whitney Vocational High School where she studied needle trades and went on to become a very sought-after seamstress. Throughout the years, she worked at the Lion Store, Damschroder’s Men’s Store along with several other men’s alteration establishments, becoming proficient in her needle trades. She also provided sewing services from her home.
Eileen met James Randall Albright when some friends of hers brought him over to where she was babysitting. Their first date included crashing a wedding reception. They became longtime residents of and had many ties to the Toledo, Ohio and Temperance, Michigan areas.
On February 20, 1954, when Eileen and Jim were married, she wore a beautiful wedding dress that she made herself. They had two daughters, Joyce and Brenda. Eileen was not only an active part of her girls’ school events such as parent and teacher organizations, chaperoning trips, baking, etc., but she also welcomed their friends to come over, took the girls to various activities and set an example of being a loving wife and mother.
They enjoyed family vacations to Cedar Point, The Toledo Zoo, camping in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula as well as visits to many other amusement parks, fairs, and lakes. Eileen and Jim also enjoyed hosting family “splash parties” at their Temperance, Michigan home.
As a couple, they traveled together to locations including Florida, Niagara Falls, Spain, along with taking Hawaiian and Caribbean Cruises. They also enjoyed their camper on Silver Lake, Indiana where family and friends came to visit.
She made many clothes for herself and her daughters as they were growing up, so they were dressed in the latest trends and fashions. She continued sewing for her grandchildren making outfits as well as many stuffed toys and dolls. Eileen enjoyed crafts and decorated many cakes, arranged flowers, created ceramics, crocheted baby blankets and sweaters, and did leather work, often as gifts for family and friends.
Eileen could also be seen at Placer’s Car Shows where she went and supported her husband as they showcased their Cadillacs.
Eileen and Jim were married 46 years when he proceeded her in death on August 7, 2000.
Eileen made friends everywhere she lived and worked. She would often visit and go out to eat and shopping with them through the years. She also never met a dog she didn’t like.
Since the spring of 2013, she has made her home with Brenda and Dick in the state of Indiana. She kept in touch with family and friends in the Toledo area with phone calls and annual visits. Until the past year or so, she had remained active by altering clothes for family and close friends, artistic coloring with pencils, solving word puzzles, sharing memories with others, and enjoying the outdoors on her porch swing.
She leaves behind to mourn her absence her daughters, Joyce (Jim) Tracey, Brenda (Dick) Webster, who lovingly called her “Momma”; also, her grandchildren, Angela (Wayne) Patchett, David Zahn, Jr., Joel Tracey, Ryan (Alison) Webster and great grandchildren, Lydia Patchett, Jael Patchett, Levi Patchett, Judah Patchett, Jacob Webster, and Kyle Webster, along with many other family members and good friends of all ages.
Eileen accepted and confessed Jesus Christ as her savior, therefore, we know that we will see her again in heaven.
John 14:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Romans 10:9-10 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.”
Friends may call at the Church in Toledo Westside Community, 6045 W. Bancroft Street, Toledo, OH 43615 on Sunday November 9, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. with the service at 3:00 p.m. and a celebration of life luncheon immediately following in the church’s fellowship hall. Entombment will be private.
Indiana funeral arrangements were provided by Meredith-Clark Funeral Home, 179 E. Mulberry Street, Morgantown, IN 46160.
Local funeral arrangements were provided by Urbanski’s Bedford Funeral Chapel, 8300 Lewis Avenue, Temperance, Michigan 48182. Online condolences may be shared at www.bedfordfuneralchapel.com

11/04/2025

Michelle Renee Schultz-Karia
September 5, 1969 - November 1, 2025

Michelle Renee Schultz-Karia, 56 years, of Temperance, MI passed away on Saturday, November 1, 2025 in her home. This beautiful soul came into the world on September 5, 1969 to Jerry and Cheryl (Moore) Murphy in Canton, OH. Throughout her early years, Michelle’s family moved from Canton, to Cincinnati, then to Toledo, OH before finally settling in Bedford Twp., MI.
Michelle graduated from Bedford High School in 1987 and went on to attend Monroe County Community College. She later earned her Associates Degree from Stautzenberger College and built a successful career as a computer engineer with Buckeye Broadband.
In 1996, Michelle married her first husband, Ken, and became a loving stepmother to Nicole (Weiland). Then, welcomed their child together, Max Schultz.
After she and Ken separated Michelle found peace and strength through a renewed relationship with God. In 2008, fate brought her together with her soulmate, Marko Karia, whom she met at the Michigan Tavern. The two soon built a life together, welcoming their daughter, Noelle, and eventually marrying in 2012.
Michelle lived for the local music scene, both singing and writing since her teenage years. She loved to support and attend as many shows throughout the years as possible, from Dream Theater, her favorite band, to all of her local friends in bands, which included both of her husbands, music made her smile.
Michelle was the life of the party, the social butterfly, everyone’s best friend and sister, the one who didn’t hate, the one anyone could talk to, the one who could be a rock star or the one who could be the perfect band wife. She was an example of what the world should aspire to…
The world became a brighter place with her in it.
Over the years her family grew because friends became family. If you didn’t know her, you would in short order and feel like you’ve known her forever. Her beacon of light spread endless love, forgiveness, patience, grace and understanding without hesitation. A true saint in her own right.
Finding out she had cancer in January, 2025 she fought a valiant battle with the illness, staring it right in the face with a heart full of faith and her world’s uncountable prayers. On November 1, 2025, All Saints Day...so fitting, in the comfort of her home surrounded by the love of her family and friends, she was peacefully called home to God in the morning light.
Michelle is survived by her loving husband, Marko; children, Max and Noelle; stepchildren, Nicole and Matt; her teacher and mom, Cheryl; brother, Mike; best friend, Kris; and all those that consider her a best friend…uncountable; and not to forget her fur babies, Pepper, Trooper, and Bella.
There were many angels that welcomed her, including her father, Jerry and the other lost family and friends along the way. For the LOVE of Michelle, we will never forget.
Visitation will be Friday, November 7, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in the Urbanski’s Bedford Funeral Chapel 8300 Lewis Ave. Temperance, MI where the funeral service will be held at 7:30 p.m.
A celebration of life will be held at Luna Pier American Legion Hall 11045 Harold Dr. Luna Pier, MI directly following the service.
“Never let her light dim, carry it through your darkest days. Blessed Lord above, take care of our angel until we meet again.”
Online condolences may be shared at www.bedfordfuneralchapel.com .

11/03/2025

Alois “Al” Francis Trendel
November 9, 1940 - October 31, 2025

Alois “Al” Francis Trendel, 84 years, of Temperance, MI died October 31, 2025, at Aspen Grove in Lambertville, MI. The son of Alois and Isabel (Mulaney) Trendel he was born November 9, 1940, at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Toledo, OH. Al married Judy Velte on May 18, 1968, at St. Clement’s Church in Toledo and they enjoyed 57 years together.
Al attended elementary school at Sacred Heart in Toledo and St. Mary’s in Sandusky and high school at Don Bosco High School in New York. He honorably served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War, where he was stationed aboard the USS Sperry as a machinery repairman. Following his military service, he was a glass closure engineer at Owens-Illinois, where he worked for more than 30 years. Al’s innovations at work led to three registered patents.
Al never stopped working. On weekends, he would either be farming his property with corn and potatoes or earning extra cash cutting trees down and grinding stumps. Even after retiring from his professional career at OI, he worked as a repairman at a local business. In his spare time, he enjoyed woodworking. He made grandfather clocks, personalized toyboxes, a baby cradle, bookshelves, and other cherished items. He also enjoyed riding and racing motorcycles well into his 70s. Renowned for his resourcefulness, he was regarded as an all-encompassing handyman who could repair virtually anything or devise an alternative solution.
Upon being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, Al committed himself to extensive research into its origins and potential associations with chemical exposures, including Agent Orange. In accordance with his wishes, his brain was donated to the Department of Veterans Affairs Biorepository Brain Bank to further scientific understanding.
Al is survived by his wife, Judy; daughters, Jenny and Amy (Josh); grandchildren, Alec (Jessica), Nicole, Griffin (Isabel), and Holden; great-grandchild, Clay, and his soon-to-arrive baby brother. He is also survived by his stepmother, Mary; siblings, Larry (Pat), Jude, Mary (Bob), Marge (Jeff), Mike (Janell), Joe (Yong), Bill (Jill), and Ann (Tim), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his brother, Louis and his sister, Sue.
Visitation will be Wednesday, November 12, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. in the Urbanski’s Bedford Funeral Chapel 8300 Lewis Ave. Temperance, MI. The funeral mass will be celebrated Thursday, November 13, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. in Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church, Temperance 8330 Lewis Ave Temperance, MI where there will be visiting in the Narthex after 10:00 a.m. with Military Honors conducted by Lambertville VFW Post #9656.Cremation is to follow.
The family gives a special thank you to the caregivers over the years, especially those at Aspen Grove. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the research of Parkinson’s Disease or your local Veterans Center.
Online condolences may be shared at www.bedfordfuneralchapel.com .

11/03/2025

Bradley Scott Hughes, aka Uncle Bam
February 8, 1987 – November 1, 2025

Bradley “Brad” Scott Hughes, aka Uncle Bam, 38 years, passed away peacefully at his Petersburg, MI home on November 1, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. The son of Scott and Dawn (Fisher) Hughes he was born February 8, 1987 in Toledo, OH.
Brad had the biggest heart and loved spending time with family and friends. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting, fishing, and playing co****le. His laughter, kindness, and easygoing spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered for the love he gave, the joy he brought, and the beautiful memories he leaves behind. We find comfort knowing he is home with the Lord.
Brad was welcomed into Heaven by his grandparents, Frederick and Marcella Hughes.
He is survived by his daughter, Raegan Hughes; parents, Scott and Dawn Hughes; younger sister, Desiree (Daniel Jr.) Brown; grandparents, Robert and Angeline Fisher; cherished nieces and nephews, Karlie Rains, Jenna Brown, Bentley Brown, Charlotte Brown, Oaklynn Brown, and Orlow Brown; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends who loved him dearly.
Arrangements were entrusted to Urbanski’s Bedford Funeral Chapel 8300 Lewis Ave. Temperance, MI.

10/31/2025

Janice S. Wegren
September 16, 1942 - October 27, 2025

Janice S. Wegren (nee Mazur) September 16, 1942- October 27, 2025. The Lord called a true angel into his heavenly fold. Janice passed away peacefully in her home, as was her wish if the time ever came. Jan graduated from Central Catholic High School. From there she went on to marry the love of her life, Robert J. Wegren on May 3rd, 1960. They had two wonderful children, Kimberly and Carrie. Jan worked as a bookkeeper for DoAll Industrial Supply from 1975 until she retired in 1995. She had plans to travel with Bob out West, until his sudden passing in 1999. After that, Jan decided to dip her toe back into the working world and got a part time job at Shrader Tire & Oil, from 2000-2006 to keep busy and active. She was a part of the accounting department and made several close friends there and enjoyed her time there a great deal, until she decided it was time to hang it up and enjoy retirement for good this time.
From there, Jan bought a house in Temperance MI, and became even more involved in her church community. She became a Eucharistic Minister; she volunteered for everything including church potlucks, rummage sales, and helping out the church community in any way possible. She also volunteered at the Lion’s Den in Temperance MI, which she loved to do dearly, and she made many wonderful friends there as well. Jan was always there to lend a hand to those in need, whether it was a ride to a doctor’s appointment, a RX run, or a hot meal- she was the one who stepped up and did it.
She loved her weekly euchre tournaments, and of course good old bingo, with her church and also with her friends at her Enfield Condo community, where she also enjoyed many, many good times with all of her friends there.
Jan also enjoyed a good deal of traveling with her besties, Gerry, Nan, and Sandy—who all recently preceded her in death- where they took cruises and visited Marthas Vineyard, and also Bermuda, which was her favorite place to be. They went to Maine, New York, and had the most memorable times. (I guess the girls needed their fourth up there, and couldn’t wait any longer.)
Jan stayed active and enjoyed life right up until her final day. Her and her daughter Carrie, along with her grand dog Delilah in tow, were known for cooking together regularly, hitting the greenhouses, planting a garden, weekend shopping, enjoying movies, taking trips with her and her daughter Kimberly, and all of us eating out at our favorite hot spots, more often than not!
Jan was a consummate reliable soul, with a remarkable passion for helping, and an unending gift for loving. She was a mom to most everyone who knew and loved her. She was smart, sweet, funny, positive, outgoing, a cheerleader, a supporter, and a darn good cook. She was an extremely talented painter sewer, quilter and crafter – she was also handy around the house, preferring to get it done herself rather than ask for help if at all possible.
She was charismatic, giving, a light in the room – there really aren’t enough words to describe what a truly ethereal beautiful creature she was. And she will leave this life, like she entered and left every room. Like a lady.
Janice was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph J. Mazur and Irene (Trzonkowski) Mazur; husband, Robert J. Wegren; and twin brother, Joseph J. Mazur. She is survived by her brother, Thomas Mazur; sister, Joan Sargeant; daughters, Kimberly Papi, Carrie Chambers; granddaughters, Jacqueline Romp, (Tommy Syroka), Taylor (Kyle) Ferderer, Morgan Papi, Paitin Syroka; grandson, Mason Syroka; and great granddaughter, Haven Ferderer, along with many, many dear friends.
“I love you Mama, you are my best friend. I will be so lost without you, but I know you’ll be with me in spirit to continue to guide me through, and cheer me on, in this life.”
Visitation will be Thursday, November 6, 2025 from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in the Urbanski’s Bedford Funeral Chapel 8300 Lewis Ave. Temperance, MI. The funeral mass will be celebrated Friday, November 7, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. in Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church, Temperance where there will be visiting in the Narthex after 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Online condolences may be shared at www.bedfordfuneralchapel.com .

10/31/2025

Suzanne Margaret Kelley Badyna
April 4, 1933 - October 28, 2025

Suzanne Margaret Kelley Badyna, 92 years, of Temperance, MI went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. She was surrounded by her loving husband, Dale, her six children and other loved ones.
Sue was born at home in Erie, MI on April 4, 1933. She was a bright light in the bleak times of the depression. She was the first grandchild on her father’s side, so she was much loved.
Her parents were Harold Edward and Dorothy Elizabeth (McCarty) Kelley. She had a brother, Bill and sister-in-law, Mary Ann Steinbauer Kelley who preceded her in death.
Sue is survived by her loving husband, Dale; six children, Mary Badyna, Margaret (Keith) Kaighin, Tom, Kelly (Al) Jewell, Paul, and Barbara; sister, Kitty (Michael) Metzger of Marietta, Georgia; six grandchildren, Sarah (Matt) Boeding, Kristi (Garrett) White, Kelly (Andy) Viertlbeck, Keith Kaighen, Jr., Ryan (Lacie) Jewell, and Christopher Jewell (Candyce); 13 great-grandchildren, Jaelyn, Kinsley, and Alex Viertlbeck, Tristan, Wesley, and Lydia Boeding, Ella, Ashley, Kate, and Everett White, Emmerson, Benette, and Vincent Jewell, and nieces and nephews.
Sue and her husband, Dale were married for seventy years and started dating when they were seventeen, five years before their marriage.
Love of learning and sports were two of her passions. She was always a leader at St. Agnes, Blessed Sacrament, Central Catholic High School, and Mary Manse College. She taught at Blessed Sacrament for 15 years, and her students remember her as a motivating and challenging teacher. Her love of teaching was demonstrated by the impact it had on her students.
Her love of sports began early. She was on the first CYO basketball team and played basketball at Central Catholic High School and Mary Manse College. In college she played, coached, and refereed. In her later years, she began golfing. Her highlight of golf was when she scored a hole in one. After retirement, Sue and Dale enjoyed many years of golfing, cards, friends, family and travel. Sue traveled to Ireland with friends to explore her Irish heritage.
She was a champion of justice. While coaching one of her daughter’s softball team, she discovered the boys’ teams were totally outfitted while the girls only received balls. She and two other coaches went to the city athletic director. From then on, all the teams received equal treatment.
Her love of books and learning came together when she worked for 13 years with the Friends of the Library and spearheaded their book sale. Because of her organization, the book sale profits rose.
She was also committed to her church. She donated many hours to both Blessed Sacrament and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church.
She was truly a Proverbs 31 woman, “Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her, many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all. Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” Proverbs 31:28-30.
Visitation will be Sunday, November 2, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in the Urbanski’s Bedford Funeral Chapel 8300 Lewis Ave. Temperance, MI. The funeral mass will be celebrated Monday, November 3, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. in Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church, Temperance where there will be visiting in the Narthex after 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Central Catholic High School, Friends of the Lucas County Library, Heartland Hospice of Monroe, MI or UNICEF. Online condolences may be shared at www.bedfordfuneralchapel.com

10/26/2025

James Patrick Ford
June 26, 1977 - October 22, 2025

James Patrick Ford, 48 years, of Temperance, MI passed away Wednesday, October 22, 2025. A commercial truck driver, he was recently employed by Ashley Furniture Industries, making deliveries to supply furniture stores.
The son of James L. Ford and Patricia L. Gerdes, he was born June 26, 1977 in Toledo, OH. Known by many as “JP” he grew up in Toledo and graduated from Whitmer High School in 1996. On October 14, 2017 he married the beautiful love of his life, Brandy Rollf after having been together for years.
JP was such a kind and loving man, always willing to give a helping hand when he could. He never knew a stranger and would love to talk about various topics he had knowledge of, whether it came to talking about cars or playing video games. He always knew something to help. He had exceptional skills at strategy games such as “Diablo” and “Puzzles and Survival”. In his free time, he loved spending time with family going on various trips. As long as the family could be together he always wanted to go on them, especially Monster Jam World Finals and truck shows across the United States.
He is survived by his loving wife, Brandy; sons, Patrick and Bryton; mother, Patricia Gerdes; sisters, Milissa (James) Ford-Charter, Dawn Blair; brother, Michael Keyes; step-mother, Linda Ford; parents-in-law, Richard (Diane) Rollf; sister-in-law, Brooke (Jon) Brown; nephews, Kenneth (Hunter) and Austin (Abigail) Charter; nieces, Adrianna Charter, Hannah, Joanna, and Breanna Brown; and many friends he treated as family, aunts, uncles, cousins, and a great-niece and nephew.
He was preceded in death by his father, James; and grandparents, Harold (Roselyn) Ford and Kenneth (Ester) Gerdes.
Visitation will be Wednesday, October 29, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in the Urbanski’s Bedford Funeral Chapel 8300 Lewis Ave. Temperance, MI where the funeral service will be held Thursday, October 30, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. Entombment will follow in Toledo Memorial Park, Sylvania, OH.
Online condolences may be shared at www.bedfordfuneralchapel.com.

10/23/2025

This was just over the funeral home🌈

10/20/2025

Dennis J. Kopinski
May 16, 1941 - October 18, 2025

Dennis J. Kopinski, 84 years, of Temperance, MI passed away Saturday, October 18, 2025 in his home. The son of Ollie and Claire (Synowczyk) Kopinski he was born May 16, 1941 in Toledo, OH. He proudly served in the National Guard. Dennis had worked in pharmaceutical sales for many years.
Dennis was well-known as a jokester, always quick-witted and full of humor. He often entertained others under the playful aliases of “Harvey Schmotski’ and ‘Fr. Denny”. He was a huge Notre Dame and New York Yankee fan but most of all he loved his grandchildren.
He is survived by his son, Steve Kopinski; daughters, Karen (Greg) Lake and Kendra (Stan) Harper; grandchildren, Melaina Kopinski, TJ, Gunnar and Trey Lake, Tony (Paola) and Marcus and Rylee Harper.
Dennis was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 46 years, Marlene (Billy) Kopinski in 2011and his parents. “Take the rest of the day off, with pay” - Denny
Visitation will be Saturday, October 25, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. in the Urbanski’s Bedford Funeral Chapel 8300 Lewis Ave. Temperance, MI. Burial will follow in Ottawa Hills Memorial Park.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
Online condolences may be shared at www.bedfordfuneralchapel.com .

10/13/2025

In Loving Memory of Donald Jeffers
September 26, 1953 – October 11, 2025

Donald Wayne Jeffers, 72, of Petersburg, MI, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on September 26, 1953, to Donald and Mary Jeffers, residing in Temperance, Michigan. He graduated from Bedford High School in 1972 and married his soulmate, Deborah (Coles) Jeffers, on October 6th of the same year. For 35 years, he was employed as a commercial driver of double and triples for United Parcel Service (UPS), achieving an impressive record of over three million miles without a single accident or traffic violation. Upon his retirement in August 2015, UPS invited him to return as an instructor to train new drivers; however, he graciously declined to fully enjoy life with his family on their cherished farm, affectionately known as the family compound.
Don lived a life characterized by gratitude, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to his beloved wife and family. As his granddaughter, Lexi, described him, he was the glue that held the family together. He was sometimes unapologetically honest and, at times, overly generous, always willing to help those in need. Hardworking and loving unconditionally, he left a lasting impact on everyone he met. Don inspired his children and grandchildren to embrace hard work and pursue their aspirations, fostering a sense of respect and independence within themselves. His encouragement aimed to instill values that he hoped would help them grow into compassionate and self-reliant individuals.
In his free time, Don enjoyed maintaining his property and tinkering with his various "treasures" in the barn, which included cars and tractors. When asked recently what his favorite car that he owned in his lifetime was, he shared that it was his red 1967 Pontiac GTO. Interestingly, this car was the reason Debbie, our mom, agreed to go on a date with him after they met at McDonald's! To this day, they still enjoy dining at McDonald's together—it turns out she was not a cheap date, given the 53+ years together!
Don had a passion for traveling and explored many destinations, including Mexico, Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic; Colorado; Gulf Shores, Alabama; Hawaii; Rhode Island; Las Vegas, Nevada; Cape Cod, Massachusetts; Upper Michigan; Indiana; Illinois; New Orleans, Louisiana; and numerous trips to various parts of Tennessee. He also cherished many memorable cruises. However, his most treasured moments were spent with family and friends, especially when hosting gatherings at the family compound.
Although the past few weeks have been challenging, we have shared some positive memories, such as spending 24/7 family time together, telling stories, and enjoying his unwavering sense of humor even in the most difficult situations. When nurses would ask him his name, he would respond with "Mr. Wonderful," with his first name being Gracious! He humorously described his sister, Deb, as "an anchor in his ass" at one point. A person who liked to control everything, he gave God 24 hours to intervene after deciding to stop fighting, believing that his request would be granted; however, that wasn’t the case. Caleb, his grandson, pointed out that God was giving Papa extra time to account for the times he had used God’s name in vain, which indeed extended his time with us! Recently, I came across the saying, “Humans plan, God laughs,” which perfectly captures the experiences we have had with him over the past few weeks. We all hoped for more time with him, but it seems that wasn’t part of God’s plan.
Don, affectionately known as "Dad" or "Papa," was truly Mr. Wonderful. He will be greatly missed by many and will always be remembered for his integrity, unwavering love for his family, quick wit, entertaining stories about Hermione, and the silly songs he sang that began with the line, "Drop your drawers in muddy waters."
Don is survived by his wife of 53 years, children, and grandchildren: daughter Daphne (Jason), Carlie, and Lexi; son Wayne (Langley), Caleb, and Ethan; son Terry, Brianna, Owen, and Alyssa; daughter Mary (Chad), Kendal, and Chase. He will be dearly missed by his best friends who just happen to be his sisters and brothers-in-law, Debra and Mike Behan, Bonnie and James Binder, brother-in-law Dan Coles, and brother, John and April, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
A private family gathering will be held at Toledo Memorial Park, followed by a celebration of life at the farm in Petersburg, MI, on a later date. In his memory, we encourage you to take a moment from your busy lives to reflect on your blessings, consider how you can help others, and take the time to thank God and love your family unconditionally.
Arrangements entrusted to Urbanski’s Bedford Funeral Chapel 8300 Lewis Ave. Temperance, MI. Online condolences may be shared at www.bedfordfuneralchapel.com .

10/03/2025

Gary Lee Betz
September 23, 1948 - September 27, 2025

Gary Lee Betz, 77 years, of Temperance, MI passed away peacefully in his home with his wife, Susie by his side on Saturday, September 27, 2025 under the care of Hospice of Northwest Ohio. The son of Robert and Marilyn (Lowery) Betz, he was born on September 23, 1948 in Tecumseh, MI.
He owned and operated Betz Well Drilling in Adrian, MI and spent over 40 years doing what he loved, whether it was drilling a new well or helping people repair theirs. His four years in the U.S. Air Force were some of the best times of his life. His family loved hearing about his times in Germany and the friendships he made.
Gary is survived by his loving wife, Susan; son, Carl; daughter, Ann; sister, Vicki; and he was blessed to have his grandchildren, Emily, Jessica, Kyle and Kennedy; along with great-grandchildren, Barrett, Leo and Daisy. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Terry Betz.
The family would like to give a special thanks to his nurse, Corey, who became a very important part of their lives. She was more than his nurse rather she became family. The V.A. was a blessing, and his nurse, Kelly, was always only a phone call away.
Gary requested that there be no visitation or funeral service. Arrangements were entrusted to Urbanski’s Bedford Funeral Chapel 8300 Lewis Ave. Temperance, MI. Online condolences may be shared at www.bedfordfuneralchapel.com.

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8300 Lewis Avenue
Temperance, MI
48182

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http://www.bedfordfuneralchapel.com/

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In 1954, Stanley J. Urbanski, who founded Urbanski Funeral Home on Lagrange Street in Toledo shortly after WWI, purchased property at Lewis Avenue and Dean Road in Temperance, Michigan from Mr. Donald Brunner. Stanley knew at that time it was only a matter of time before people in the city of Toledo would want to move to Bedford Township to raise their families in larger homes with land for their children to grow up on. He sensed ahead of his time the exodus of the city life to the growth of the suburbs. He knew that it was only a matter of time before there was a need for a larger, more accommodating, upscale funeral facility in Bedford. Ground was broken in 1968 for what is now Urbanski's Bedford Funeral Chapel. We started with one acre of ground and built an 8,000 square foot building designed for the future of funeral service. This was started as a collaboration with Stanley J., William A. and William G. Urbanski. Three generations of funeral directors in the Urbanski family were involved. William G. Urbanski graduated in March of 1969 from The Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science, was named Resident Manager and moved into the facility which started operations in October, 1969. Three months later due to the need for ambulance service in the area, the Bedford Chapel Ambulance Service was begun by William G. Urbanski. With the help of volunteers from the Bedford Fire Department, hundreds of lives were saved over the many years. The now 12,000 square foot facility is the largest and most accommodating funeral establishment in the area, with the best prices available. We have also entered our 4th generation of licensed funeral directors, with Eric J. Urbanski receiving his Bachelor's Degree in Mortuary Science from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science in 2009.

Bedford Funeral Chapel

11/05/2025

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11/03/2025

10/31/2025

10/31/2025

10/26/2025

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10/20/2025

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10/03/2025

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Our Story