Steve Britton, Sr.

Hardworking, headstrong, and loyal as they come, Stephen Britton Sr.’s warm and calming presence was a gift to all those who knew and loved him. He was a constant source of strength in all circumstances, and he faced every challenge that came his way head-on with fierce determination and grit. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Steve’s family was the focus of his life, and there was nothing he would not do for his loved ones. His sharp sense of humor and witty one-liners could put a smile to anyone’s face, bringing laughter and joy into every room. Although he will be greatly missed, Steve will be forever loved.

The mid 1950s are remembered as a very influential chapter in the history of the United States. The Korean Conflict had recently come to an end overseas, ushering in an era of hope and healing for the world. Here at home in America, the historical civil rights movement was in full swing while rock and roll dominated the music scene. It was during this exciting time that William Britton Jr. and Sheila Zudweg of Kalamazoo, Michigan, were awaiting the birth of their third child. Their wait came to an end on November 12 of 1955 as their son, Steve, made his entrance into the world.

Throughout his formative years, Steve enjoyed a typical childhood of his generation. He was raised in the family home alongside his two older siblings, Robert and Sharon, and his younger brother, Randy. Steve was athletic from a young age and played a lot of baseball as a boy. Although he was also one of the basketball team’s strongest players, his short height ultimately kept him from making the cut. Steve developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors, and he loved being active. He attended Parchment High School and graduated in 1973, eager to see what the future held.

It was around this time that Steve met the lively young woman who would quickly capture his heart. Her name was Lynn Davidson, and the two were first introduced through Steve’s cousin, Dianne, who was also Lynn’s best friend. During one of their first outings together, Steve was driving a snowmobile with Lynn riding on the back. He decided to jump a bank in the woods, and Lynn fell off. Steve didn’t even notice until he’d made it a few miles! Suffice to say, Lynn was less than impressed by him at first. But a relationship blossomed, and they found themselves falling very much in love. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Steve and Lynn were married young on September 25, 1976. Their first few years as husband and wife had its struggles as they established their lives, but Steve and Lynn prioritized taking the time to enjoy life, often having friends over to hang out and finding plenty of reasons to laugh and smile.

Before long, Steve’s family began to grow. He and Lynn were overjoyed to welcome their twin boys, Bill and Steve Jr., and daughter, Lisa. Steve took an active role in his kids’ lives. He coached their baseball and softball teams and was a great role model not just for his own children but for their friends as well. Many days were spent practicing on the field or in the backyard. Steve had fond memories of fishing with Lisa and taking the boys up North for snowmobile trips. The Britton family enjoyed vacations to Cedar Point and Detroit Tigers’ baseball games.

For the first several years of his career, Steve established himself at WL Molding. He was then employed by Engineered Plastic Components, which became Western Diversified Plastics in Mattawan. His leadership proved influential both for the business and for his colleagues. Steve was an integral part of the company as it grew and expanded as it was he who was in charge of all new plant start-ups, which included all of the machinery and equipment ordering. In the later years of Steve’s career he was managing the foreman and teaching the supervisors everything about the molding equipment, but what truly built his reputation was the way he treated people. Steve became well-respected throughout the company and the industry for his high level of respect, his willingness to freely share his knowledge, and his dedication to mentoring others; all of which is a testament to his character.

Later in life, Steve was thrilled to become an adoring grandfather. The family all lived close, which allowed him to be very present in their lives. Steve loved doing outdoor activities with his grandkids, often taking them out for rides on the golf cart or the quads. Of course, he had to teach everyone how to properly use their middle finger. Steve was so happy to watch his family grow and flourish.

In his free time, Steve always loved being active and athletic. He was in a bowling league with Lynn for many years and played coed softball with coworkers from EPC and all of his kids. Steve had a talent for pitching and was known for some crazy pitches. For many years, he was an avid hunter. Steve cheered on Detroit during Lions games, even through their bad years. He enjoyed going to many concerts including Bruno Mars and one memorable Keith Urban concert where they actually grabbed hands on the aisle. Although Steve was never much of a golfer, he tried. What he was exceptionally good at though, was fixing just about anything. You could count on Steve to always be looking out for you. As his health declined, he fought hard, earning his well-deserved last summer of fishing.

As family and friends can certainly attest, Steve Britton Sr. truly understood the secret to a life well lived. He never took a joyful moment for granted or missed a chance to show his loved ones just how treasured they were. Steve led his family with wisdom and integrity, and he treated everyone with dignity and respect. Already so missed, Steve will live on with every story that makes us laugh and the memories we share.

Over his more than four year courageous and inspiring fight with cancer, Steve Britton, Sr, passed away peacefully with his family by his side. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Jr. and Sheila Britton; and his brother, Robert Britton. Surviving are his wife, Lynn; children: Bill Britton (Ashley Allers), Steve (Diana) Britton Jr., and Lisa (Jason) Zinkil; grandchildren: Alesha, Lexi, Evan, Allie, Izzy, and Charlee; siblings: Sharon Howard and Randy (Caroline) Britton; many nieces and nephews; and his beloved dog, Bailey.

Please join us for a Life Story Visitation on Tuesday, August 18, from 5-7 PM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900. A Life Story Service will be held Wednesday, August 19, at 11 AM, also at the funeral home. Private burial to follow. Celebrate Steve’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Centrica Rose Arbor Place.