Jay "Pa" Milton Rinz

Jay "Pa" Milton Rinz of Elsie, Michigan

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend passed away unexpectedly at his home on Thursday, March 23, 2023. He was 68 years old. Jay Milton Rinz was born on October 27, 1954, in Saginaw County, to the late Vernon and Virginia (Hintermeister) Rinz. He was a proud 1972 graduate of Merrill High School. Following graduation, he completed his apprenticeship to become a millwright. He then began working at Capital Machinery Movers for over 8 years, and Flint Riggers for over 20 years as a journeyman foreman. He met the love of his life, Judy Charmine McDonald, through friends. They celebrated 35 years together and were united in marriage on February 23, 2015, in Saginaw; she survives him. The role of his lifetime was to be a dedicated and loyal husband and father, however what he treasured and cherished the most was being a loving and tenderhearted grandfather and great-grandfather. As a young man, Jay enjoyed drinking a Michelob Light on a hot summer day, and as he grew older it turned into sipping on his coffee. Those that loved Jay, knew he was infamous for his 4th of July gatherings, his ability to cook everything perfectly, and for being a master griller and pig roaster. An excellent communicator, he enjoyed spending time with his family and visiting with all of his neighbors. Jay also enjoyed taking little drives or cruising around the neighborhood. He had the mind of a mechanic and would often build, repair, and fix the bicycles of his grandchildren and neighborhood kids. His little piece of heaven was spending time outdoors where he could fish, hunt, or work all day long in his garden. Jay made his family proud for celebrating sobriety for the last six years. Though he could be stubborn, he loved fiercely and passionately, and those he cared about, family or not, were blessed with his good heart. Jay will forever be remembered for filling his home with the smell of fresh bacon in the morning, for his homemade pinto beans, for his loyal and giving heart, and for truly living an amazing life filled with many beautiful memories and stories.

Surviving are his wife, Judy Rinz of Elsie; three children: Craig (Dawn) Kade of Breckenridge; Kandy Powers of Marion Springs; Jerry Kent Brown of Middleton, TX; nine grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; two brothers and two sisters: Vern (Carol) Rinz of Three Rivers; Paul (Darlene) Rinz of Marion Springs; Mary Davis of Marion Springs; Evelyn Graham of Merrill.

Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Vernon and Virginia Rinz; and his three brothers and two sisters: Jack, Charlie, John, Carol, and Virginia.

Cremation has taken place. A graveside service will take place at Lakefield Township Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the family c/o Judy Rinz. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family through www.casefuneralhome.com.