George Denecker

George Denecker

George Andrew Denecker, 90, of Riga Township, MI, passed from this life at 9:43 p.m. on Monday, September 4, 2023, at Otterbein Sunset Village in Sylvania, Ohio. He was born on August 26, 1933, in Toledo, Ohio, to the late Maurice and Florence (Vanacker) Denecker. On October 19, 1957, he married Madeline VanDevelde at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Monroe, MI. They made many treasured memories together with their family during their 65 years of marriage.

George was a member of Light of Christ Catholic Church in Blissfield, MI. He was a lifelong farmer raising vegetables, beef cattle, and grain. For years, his family operated a fruit and vegetable stand enjoyed by many in the area. From 1955-1956, George served his country in the United States Army and was stationed in Mississippi, Washington, California, and Alaska. He enjoyed traveling and visited 48 states as well as China. Among his favorite activities were attending NASCAR and Indy car races with his sons, grandsons, and friends. He was an avid racing fan and had the opportunity to meet several drivers. George was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren and enjoyed cheering them on at their sporting events. He will be remembered for his humble spirit and for the great love he had for his family and for the land.

In addition to his wife, Madeline, George is survived by his four children, Shirley A. (John Helberg) Judson of Waterville, OH, Larry G. Denecker of Fort Lauderdale, FL, Maurice J. (Jean) Denecker of Riga, MI, and Gregory J. (Christine) Denecker of Bluffton, Ohio. George had six grandchildren, Donnie Judson, Melissa Judson, Bryce Denecker, Claire Denecker, Gabe Denecker, and Luke Denecker.

George was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Therese; and his siblings, Leon Denecker and Mary VanBelle.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Dialysis Center of Greater Toledo for their kind care of George in his final years.

A funeral mass will be held on Friday, September 8, 2023, at 11 a.m. at the Light of Christ Parish, St. Peter the Apostle Church in Blissfield, with Fr. Jeffrey Poll as celebrant. Burial will follow at Pleasant View Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 7, 2023, from 3-8 p.m. at Wagley Funeral Home, Tagsold Chapel, Blissfield, with a rosary service at 7 p.m. Visitation will also be held again one hour before the service at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Light of Christ Parish, St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.wagleyfuneralhomes.com.