Winfried Breitkreuz

Winfried “Fred” Breitkreuz, age 81, passed away Tuesday, November 24, 2020 in St. Joseph, Michigan. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, December 5, 2020 at the First Church of God in St. Joseph with the Pastor David Colp officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow at Riverview Cemetery in St. Joseph. Memorials may be made to First Church of God. Those wishing to leaving an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel, St. Joseph. Fred was born in Potsdam, Germany on February 23, 1939 to Erwin and Edith Breitkreuz. In 1951, Fred immigrated to the United States, then graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1957. He married Lois Cauwels Breitkreuz on August 11th, 1962. Fred received his BS in Mechanical Engineering from John Brown University and MBA from Western Michigan University. He was a proud owner of the family business Ace Plumbing & Heating Company for over 50 years. Fred was a devoted Christian and a member of the First Church of God in St. Joseph, Michigan. He also was a 32nd Degree Mason, member of the St. Joseph Masonic Lodge, and member of the St. Joseph River Yacht Club. Fred enjoyed boating, racquetball, walks with his wife, and most of all, spending time with family. Fred was known for his commitment, integrity, humility, compassion, and joy. Fred’s marriage to Pat was purposeful and sacrificial, holding true to their faith while never losing sight of each other. He constantly encouraged Pat and his family in their goals, faith, and hardships. Fred left every person he met better than he found them. Whether that was with a joke or a personalized song, Fred spread his joy and left everyone smiling. He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Pat Breitkreuz; brother, Volker Bradley and his wife Jyl; daughter, Rebecca Breitkreuz; son, Stephen Breitkreuz; son, Van Taylor; daughter, Patty Schoonheim; daughter, Kimberly Simons; and fourteen grandchildren, Ryan Sanford, Aaron Sanford, Dylan Breitkreuz, Skylar Simons, Makenzie Simons, Jensen Simons, Camden Simons, Emma Breitkreuz, Luke Breitkreuz, Jack Breitkreuz, Josh Breitkreuz, Rachel Schoonheim, Natalie Schoonheim and Jenna Schoonheim. For the livestream please click" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHBQKdULWGNZwdvwcaeJ3Pw?view_as=subscriber">click here.