Bette Irene Metzler

Bette I. Metzler, 96, of Holland, Mich., (formerly Bay City, Mich.) passed away on Nov. 16, 2021. She was born May 1, 1925, to Otto and Anna Van Dyke and grew up on Lagoon Beach, near Bay City. She was the beloved wife to James Metzler for 68 years, and they are now reunited after his passing in 2016.

Bette graduated from Bay City Central High School in 1943 and then attended Hope College. She was a teacher in Standish, Mich., for several years. In 1985, the family moved back to Bay City where she provided integral support to Metzler Development. Bette used her knack for interior design, staging model homes after they were built. Bette had a great crafting talent, and her beautiful wreaths and arrangements still adorn many homes. She had remarkable faith and a servant’s heart, volunteering with many organizations. Some of Bette’s happiest times were with family and friends aboard the family boat, the JimBet, and spending winters in New Smyrna Beach, Fla. She treasured living the last several of her good years in Holland, near her sisters, Mary and Joy, and her extended family.

Bette was the loving mother of Julie Baker, Steve (Shelly) Metzler and Michael (Sheryl) Metzler; cherished grandmother to Sean Baker, Jennifer (Matt) Cronin, Heather Garry, Kyle (Alicia) Kammerzell, Melissa Brooks (Brent Goik), Mike Metzler II and Ryan (Amanda) Metzler; devoted great grandmother to Kenny and James Cronin, Ethan and Justin Garry, Myles and Wyatt Kammerzell, Justin and Mason Brooks, Gavin Goik, and Wyatt and Emmitt Metzler; sister of Mary Overway and Janet VanDyke. Preceded in death by siblings Joy and Jack Cote, August Overway and Bruce Van Dyke.

Funeral services will take place Monday, November 22nd, 11:00am at Zion Lutheran Church, Holland, with visitation at the church from 10:00am to 11:00am. Those wishing to express condolences may consider donations to Camp Fish Tales, in Pinconning, one of the many charitable organizations that Jim and Bette supported. The family would like to especially thank everyone at Eden Fields Assisted Living and Memory Care and Careline Hospice for lovingly caring for Bette during her final few years and days.