Vincent George Litchfield Jr

Vincent George Litchfield Jr, 70, of Chesterfield, Michigan passed away peacefully on July 27, 2025 surrounded by loved ones.

Vince was born on June 29, 1955 in Detroit to Vincent Litchfield Sr and Patricia Litchfield (Bandlow). He is preceded in death by his parents, his best friend Terry, as well as beloved dogs Chief, Jessie, Snickers, and Callie. Vince is survived by his wife of nearly 43 years, Mary; children Joel (Kelly) and Elizabeth (Ellie); beloved grandchildren Conner and Ava; siblings John (Diana) Litchfield, Julie (Gary) Mainhardt, and Ken (Debbie) Litchfield; many nieces and nephews; and an endless list of friends who felt more like family.

From the very beginning, he had a kind soul that cared deeply about his family and friends. He was highly intelligent and always interested in learning how things worked. Every single human that met Vince can name at least one act of kindness he did for them without hesitation. Throughout his life, Vince wore many hats: devoted son, responsible brother, beloved nephew, dedicated friend, cherished husband, loving father, kind uncle, and adored papa. He was the pancake chef for his grandchildren and the man that was happy to say a prayer over anyone's burns. He was a man who had deep beliefs in God and said the rosary every day - always praying for others. He was a skilled electrician for 42 years with Ford Motor Company. He happily worked long hours and lots of overtime over the years to support and build a life for his wife and children. He enjoyed snow and water skiing, traveling, building train and lego sets, riding his motorcycle, camping, jeeping, golfing, listening to vinyl, building and adventuring in his own dune buggy, and sitting around a campfire with friends. Later in life, Vince and Mary bought a motorhome and, with his jeep in tow, drove all over the US. He could kick your ass in a game of chess and then teach you strategies to beat your next opponent. His wit and sarcastic sense of humor cracked everyone up constantly. He loved animals and animals loved him, immediately recognizing his gentle soul... but don't tell anyone, because he was a tough guy.

Vince met his wife Mary through mutual friends. They got married at St. Angela's church in Roseville, Michigan on October 16th, 1982. Their marriage was filled with camping trips, traveling all over the country, collecting shot glasses, raising a family, spoiling their grandchildren, fighting about the thermostat, and loving each other unconditionally through all of life's ups and downs. As a father and grandfather, Vince brought compassion, sound advice, big hugs, wrestling in the living room, ice cream for dinner, tea parties, and nerf gun fights. His dad jokes were unmatched, and he went to every band concert, sports event, graduation, etc. beaming with pride.

To honor Vince, a celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you enjoy a chocolate shake, a shot of Jack Daniels, and/or send a donation to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation. His laugh, warm hugs, and stubborn spirit will be missed every single day. His loved ones are endlessly grateful to have shared time, stories, and love with such a remarkable human. The family would like to share a signature cocktail recipe as a tribute to Vince and his love of beer, whiskey, and the outdoors. Cheers to Vince - who knew the best stories are told under the stars, the best shots are poured by the campfire, and the best memories are made outside.

"The Vince"

A smooth campfire sipper with whiskey warmth, a whisper of smoke, and the spirit of the outdoors.

Ingredients:

2 oz Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey

0.5 oz Honey Syrup (or maple syrup for a deeper note)

1 dash Angostura or orange bitters

1 small splash of crisp lager (optional)

Orange peel or toasted marshmallow (for garnish)

Instructions:

Add Jack, syrup, and bitters to a mixing glass with ice. Stir until well chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over a large cube or neat in a camp mug. Add a small splash of cold lager just before serving-it lightens the texture without dominating. Garnish with a flamed orange peel or a toasted marshmallow.