Dirk B. Waltz

Dirk B. Waltz, 97, of Midland, died April 6, 2011, at the MidMichigan Medical Center.

He was born on Sept. 16, 1913, to John and Lydia Waltz who moved to the United States from the Netherlands. He married Charlotte Jean Currie on June 27, 1935 in Midland. Jean preceded him in death in 1994. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served as a turret gunner in the Pacific during World War II, and was an honored veteran. Upon return from the military, Dirk worked at The Dow Chemical Co., then partnered in a Buick automobile dealership, later becoming the president and owner of Dirk Waltz Buick, Oldsmobile, and Jeep. Dirk was also a business partner with his brother-in-law, Gil Currie, in the Bay Valley Hotel and Resort. Dirk was a long time member of the Midland Country Club, an honorary lifetime member of the Midland Rotary Club, a member of the Impulse Club in Clare, a member of Memorial Presbyterian Church, served as a director for Chemical Bank and was named Director Emeritus. He was a philanthropic supporter of many charitable organizations throughout the Tri-Cities. Dirk was an ardent lover of wildlife and was honored by the Michigan Department of Wildlife for the Game Refuge he established across from his residence at Linwood Beach. His animal farm was enjoyed and endeared since the 1950s by many.

Dirk is survived by his daughter, Gretchen and (Victor) Fruehauf of Boulder, Colo., and his son, Dirk D. Waltz and (Marti Cederberg) of Linwood; granddaughters, Ann Waltz and (Terri Weickel) of Indianapolis, Ind., and Mary Lee Fruehauf of Boulder, Colo.; grandsons, Dirk A. (Lisa) Waltz, Christopher, Donald (Krista) Waltz of Midland, and Todd (Lisa) Fruehauf of Boulder, Colo.; great-granddaughters, Taylor Waltz of Midland, and Caitlyn Fruehauf of Boulder, Colo.; great-grandsons, Jake and Jason Waltz of Midland, Tristan and Tanner Waltz of Indianapolis, Ind., and Zachary Fruehauf of Boulder, Colo.; and his beloved parrot, Peanuts.

The family would like to express our sincere gratitude to his special caregivers, Vallie McColley, Julie Westendorf, Wilson Fournier, Barb, Lois, Vicki, Sylvia, Linda, Evelyn, and friend of the animals, Ann McMammon, for the many years of loving care and dedication.

Funeral services for Mr. Waltz will take place today at 11 a.m., from the Memorial Presbyterian Church. The Rev. Wallace H. Mayton III will officiate, with a 3 p.m. graveside committal service in Midland City Cemetery. Full military honors will be presented at the cemetery by the Midland Area Veterans. Mr. Waltz's family will receive friends at the church today from 10 a.m. until time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the Humane Society of Midland County or the Memorial Presbyterian Church.