Rene A. Baltzer
July 26, 1942 – November 24, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Rene Ann Baltzer, who left this world peacefully on November 24, 2025, at Henry Ford Macomb Hospital’s hospice unit. She was 83 years old.
Born on July 26, 1942 to Edward and Elizabeth (Moore) Baumgarten, Rene graduated from Mt. Clemens High School in 1960, where she was an Aquabelle. In 1963, she married the love of her life, Geoffrey Baltzer who preceded her in death in 2016. They settled in Leonard in 1972, where they remained the rest of their lives. Rene is survived by her children: son, Geoffrey Baltzer II and his wife Angela, daughter Lia Stinedurf and her husband, Jeff, daughter Lezlee; and grandson, Grant.
While her decorating skills could have earned her a feature in one of the decorating magazines she loved, Rene chose to focus her talents at home for her family and her many beloved pets. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Rene was a true Steel Magnolia – strong, but beautiful, thoughtful and kind; with a sense of humor that made the best of life’s worst moments. Rene had great taste, a remarkable sense of style and the skills and determination to bring her visions to life in an around her home, alongside her devoted husband, Jeff. An avid reader, Rene was constantly learning, and was the Baltzer family’s undisputed Scrabble champion.
Rene was dedicated to her family, and well known to her childrens’ teachers, who anxiously awaited her hilarious notes to excuse her children’s absences, such as when she “turned her daughter into a toad and could not remember the spell to turn her back.” With enthusiasm, love and grace, Rene was always involved in the lives of her children and her grandson.
Her kitchen was the heart of her home, always filled with good food, laughter, and the comforting aroma of her favorite recipes. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome, whether they were family, neighbors, or someone stopping by for the first time. Her hands were seldom still—she was always cooking, tending, crafting, or lending a hand wherever it was needed.
Though our hearts ache with her loss, we take comfort in knowing that her legacy endures—in the meals shared, the holidays celebrated, the lessons learned, and the love she poured into every corner of her life. Her life was a testament to the beauty of generosity, devotion, and love. She will be dearly missed and forever treasured.
Services:
A celebration of her life will be held on Monday, December 1, 2025 at the Henry M.Malburg Funeral Home in Romeo, MI.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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