Kenneth D. Decker

DECKER, Kenneth D. "Jack", age 80, of Vicksburg, passed away Friday afternoon, October 2, 2009 at his home. He was born November 23, 1928 in Battle Creek, the son of the late George and Carrie Thompson Decker. Raised in the Scotts area, Jack graduated from the Climax-Scotts High School in 1947. On April 22, 1950, he was united in marriage to Jane VanTichelt. Jack was a veteran of the United States Army, serving during the Korean Conflict. In 1955, he began work for Michigan Bell and following 33 years, retired in 1988. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed deer hunting, fishing with his wife, and spending time in the Upper Peninsula. Surviving are his wife of 59 years, Jane Decker; their two children, Cheryl Lettow of Scotts and Dean Dawnn Decker of Vicksburg; 7 grandchildren, Samantha Nick DeRyke, Sarah and Mitchell Lettow, and Ryan, Cameron, Corbin and Meredith Decker; one great-granddaughter, Ava DeRyke; one sister, Katherine "Kay" Thayer of Battle Creek; and many nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death are his parents; four brothers, Russell, Lyle, Morris, and Forrest Decker; one sister, Helen Jermay; and son-in-law, Randy Lettow. Funeral services for Jack will be at 1:00 PM on Tuesday at Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Climax Chapel, 205 E. Maple Street, with Pastor Glenn C. Litchfield officiating. Interment will follow in Gilson Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family from 4-7 PM on Monday at the funeral home. As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be directed to Kalamazoo Nature Center or Borgess Visiting Nurse and Hospice Services.