Rollie W. Diethrich

Rollie W. Diethrich, age 97, of Buchanan died Thursday, June 5th at Lakeland Medical Center, Niles. He was born November 3, 1916 to the late William and Dessie Hartzell Diethrich in Fletcher, Michigan. Two brothers Earl and Wilbur Diethrich, and a sister Hattie Traverse also preceded him in death. Rollie moved to the area in 1936 to work at Clark Equipment Company in the drill department. On July 27, 1940 he married Georgia Upson. They celebrated over 50 years of marriage. She preceded him in death in June of 1991. In 1996, Rollie married Ellen Goodrich who died in 2004.  He was a graduate of ConstantineHigh School and was a co-owner of Trio Manufacturing in Dowagiac where they made patterns, fiberglass sailboats and germ free laboratory equipment for Loban industries at Notre Dame. Rollie is survived by a son, Timothy (Mary) Diethrich; a step-son, Ron (Bev) Rowe; two grandchildren, Mary Anne (Shawn) Ward and Matthew (Amethyst) Diethrich; and four great grandchildren; along with four nephews, two nieces and many great nephews and nieces. A service celebrating his life will be held on Thursday, June 12 at 11:00 a.m. at Faith United Methodist Church, 728 N. Detroit St., Buchanan, with Pastor Edward Slate officiating. Friends may call one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Faith United Methodist Church, 728 N. Detroit St., Buchanan, Michigan 49107. The family is being served by Swem Chapel in Buchanan.  To sign his guest book or leave a condolence message please visit our web site at www.swemchapel.com.