David Joel Baechler

David Joel Baechler White Pigeon David Joel Baechler, age 70, of White Pigeon, Michigan, went to be with his Lord on Tuesday, July 22, 2008 at Sturgis Hospital in Sturgis, Michigan following an extended illness. He was born in Battle Creek, Michigan on September 10, 1937 to Robert and Margaret (Johnson) Baechler. David was a graduate of Battle Creek Central High School. He married Marlynn C. Ackley on December 28, 1957 in Benton Harbor, Michigan. He was employed at Vincent Bach in Elkhart for 33 years doing instrument repairs. He retired in 2003. David was a member of Church of Christ in Sturgis. David played semi-pro football in Battle Creek. He founded the White Pigeon Rocket Football Program, he was a Cub Scout Master for 12 years, coached Little League, and was past president of the White Pigeon Sport Booster Club. He loved football and enjoyed watching his family play sports. He is survived by his wife, Marlynn C. Baechler of White Pigeon; daughter, Jodi Baechler of Columbus, Ohio; 2 sons, Jeffrey (Anne) Baechler of White Pigeon, Tim (Julie) Baechler of Plymouth, MI; 7 grandchildren; 1 great-granddaughter; and sister, Ruth (Ivan) St. John of Battle Creek, MI. He was preceded in death by his parents, son David J. Baechler Jr., and sister Virginia Proch. A funeral service will be held at Church of Christ, Sturgis, Michigan at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 26, 2008 with the Rev. George Cleverly officiating. Burial will be in White Pigeon Township Cemetery. Visitation is Friday from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Farrand Funeral Home, White Pigeon. Memorial contributions may be made to the White Pigeon Rocket Football Program. Envelopes are available at the funeral home.