Wayne Andrew Krotz, 65 of Hopkins, died Monday, Jan. 23.
Born Dec.10, 195,7 in Allegan, he was the son of the late Robert and Geraldine (Grauman) Krotz and the husband of Daisy (VanVolkinburg) Krotz. He attended Hopkins Elementary and High School and went on to Lincoln Tech-Automotive Mechanic. He started his career at Orrin B. Hayes in Kalamazoo; then Midway Chevrolet in Allegan; and finally Grand Allegan/Betten Baker, retiring in the last few years. He took numerous continued education courses and earned certificates for auto repair through retirement.
Wayne grew up on his parents’ farm, helping out with all the necessary chores. He was active in the FFA, raising livestock. During his school years, he participated in many school athletics (football, basketball, baseball), but also enjoyed playing the saxophone and guitar.
Having parties at the lake and swimming kept his youth days active, as well as four-wheeling in the Allegan forest. His love for anything with a motor started in his youth, when he had various cars, motorcycles, and trucks that were kept in immaculate condition. As Wayne entered adult life, his interests changed a little, playing cards, cribbage and video games with his friends and family, along with golf (especially with his dad and brothers). He liked bowling and joined leagues with his buddies and attended poker nights with friends.
Wayne was a true devoted Detriot Tigers fan with the game playing on the radio in the summers, and a Lions fan (even if he did start to give up on them the last few years). Time spent camping and having friends and family get together for fireworks, bonfires, fishing, or boating were other activities that Wayne cherished. He loved fishing and appreciated it when he had a boat that would actually run well. Wayne had grown up hunting but found a real passion for it when his son-in-law and grandson joined him.
He continually helped friends with fixing their cars. Being a devoted father and grandpa, Wayne never missed an opportunity to give his kids and grandkids cookies or ice cream. He raised his children and grandchildren with unconditional love and welcomed everyone into his home. If Wayne had any flaw, it would be his compulsion to mow! Throughout his life, Wayne made it his priority to make everyone laugh, even with really bad jokes or when he made up new words. He made friends with anyone he met, even total strangers on vacation!
He loved his family with a deep devotion and appreciated everyone for who they were; not caring about their stature in life, or whether they were young or old. All were made to feel loved and special, and they knew they had a home with him. He found a deep love with Daisy later in his adult life and welcomed her family with wide open arms.
Besides his wife, Daisy, surviving are his children, Brooke Krotz, Amanda Stout (Eric), Cyndi Allen (Tim Gettys), Jennifer (Bob) Clevenger, and Josh VanVolkinburg; his brothers, Roger (Kelly) Krotz and Kevin Krotz; sister-in-law, Ann Krotz; grandchildren, Cody, Joshua, Harley, Molly, Garrett and Rorey, Chloe, Noah, Nova, Ford, and Tori; and many cherished nieces, nephews and friends.
Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, David Krotz
Friends may meet with the family at Gorden Funeral Residence, Hopkins Chapel, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 26, and from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 27, at which time the funeral will begin with Pastor Paul Hays officiating. Wayne will be laid to rest in Maplewood Cemetery, Hopkins Township.
A luncheon will follow the graveside service at the Hopkins Community Church.
