Wilbert Wirth

Surrounded by loved ones, Wilbert Wirth, 91, of Vassar passed away on to his heavenly home on Thursday, October 23, 2025.

Wilbert (Willie) was born on November 17, 1933, to Wilbert Wirth and Erna (Holzhei) Wirth Loesel. A graduate of Vassar High School, Willie went on to spend two years in the U.S. Army, spending much of his deployment in Germany.

A career that started out picking up canned milk at area dairy farmers, Willie went on to spend several years at Bowman Sealrich Dairy in Saginaw. A 29-year career at Saginaw Steering Gear followed.

Sixty-five years ago, he married the former Arlene Hecht. Together they enjoyed bowling, card clubs, camping and traveling. Both life-long members of St. Michaels Lutheran Church in Richville, where Willie served as an elder.

Beloved family members include daughters Holly (Edward) Damm of Millington, Kelly (Bruce) Rich of Birch Run and Cathy Jo who passed away at 20 months of age. Grandchildren include Taryn Hill, Trevin Damm, Tegan (Victor Valdez) Damm, Kyle (Alison) Rich, Corey (Natalie Matzke) Rich. Trista (Steve) Yax and Trent Damm. He was also blessed with 11 great-grandchildren. Willie leave also his extended family brothers in-law and their wives;  Ray & Sandy Hecht, Fred & Denise Hecht, and Jim Doud, sisters in-law Annie Hecht, and Sally Seney, and Carolyn Wirth.

Willie was greeted in heaven by brothers John Wirth, Ray Wirth, sister Frances Doud, and brothers-in-law Larry, Edward and Herbert Hecht and Gary Seney.

Willie’s funeral service will be on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at 11:00 am at St. Michael’s Lutheran Church. Burial to follow at St. Michael’s Cemetery.

Willie’s Family will be present to receive visitors at Hanlin Funeral Home-Vassar on Monday, October 27, 2025, from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm. And at the church on Tuesday, from 10 am until the time of service.

Memorials will go to St. Michael’s Lutheran Church home purpose fund.

Wilbert and his family are in the care of Hanlin Funeral Home-Vassar. 1148 West Saginaw Road, Vassar, Michigan 48768.  Phone (989) 823-8621.

Hanlin Funeral Homes ~ Serving Since 1928

Millington & Vassar