David Rench, 78

David W. Rench, age 78, of Leonidas, died Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2014 at Bronson Battle Creek Hospital. He was born in Battle Creek on Sep. 18, 1935 the son of Harlow V. and V. Edna (Reiling) Rench. David was first married to Alice Gallagher. They moved to Leonidas in 1967 and were later divorced. David was a carpenter and cabinet-maker and also played the fiddle in several area country-western bands. He also enjoyed playing music in southern Texas where he wintered for 15 years. He was a lifelong Detroit Tiger fan.

David was married to Betty Lou (Ernsberger) Lane in 1977. She died in 2010. He was also preceded in death by his parents; step-daughter, Pam Everett; grandsons, Brandon Cobb, Monte Wolfe, and Jackie Edmondson, Jr.; great grandson, Eric Wolfe.

David is survived by four children, Deborah Keefe and Elizabeth Crabtree both of Battle Creek, David C. Rench and Theresa (Patrick) Hawkins both of Leonidas; step-daughter, Janet Mears; a brother, Richard P. Rench; seven grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the Eickhoff Funeral Home in Mendon. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Sunday Feb. 2, 2014 at the funeral home with Pastor Dave Stevens officiating. Burial will follow in Leonidas Cemetery. Memorials will be directed to the family. Condolences may be left for the family at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com