Herbert "Herb" Ernest Volz

Herbert Ernest Volz Jr.

March 26, 1941 – December 4, 2024
Phoenix, AZ formerly of Brant, MI

Herbert Ernest Volz Jr., lovingly known as “Herb” or “Herbie,” passed away peacefully on December 4, 2024, in Phoenix, Arizona, with his devoted wife, Ruthann, by his side. Born on March 26, 1941, in Saginaw, Michigan, to the late Herbert Sr. and Lena Volz, Herb lived a life full of service, love, and joyful moments shared with family and friends.

A graduate of Arthur Hill High School in 1960, Herb spent his early years riding his bike through Bates Street, balancing school, and working at Smith Hardware and Radio Parts. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy for four years as an airplane mechanic, receiving an honorable discharge.

In 1966, Herb began his career at Grey Iron Foundry, working as a skilled tradesman for 38 years until his retirement in 2004. He married Patricia Schmidt in 1967, sharing a life of love and family until her passing in 2012. Herb later found happiness with Ruthann, whom he married on February 17, 2015, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Marion Springs, Michigan.

Herb's passion for community service was evident in his years with the Marion Township Fire Department, where he often delighted children as “Smokey the Bear” at local parades and festivals. He dedicated time as a Boy Scout leader and became a consistent presence at blood drives, generously donating over 10 gallons of blood during his lifetime.

Herb loved the simple joys of life: road trips, car shows, old cars, NASCAR, music, dancing, and the great outdoors. His infectious energy and signature wave accompanied by a cheerful “Hi there!” as he cruised through Marion Springs brought smiles to many.

Herb’s greatest pride was his family. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Ruthann Volz; his children, Brian (Sherry) Volz, Mary Lou Valley, Herbert “Chip” Volz III (Shelly), Thomas (Gail) Volz, Kendra (Brian) Smith, and Scott (Karrie) Clark; his treasured grandchildren: Lane (Rachel) Valley, Wyatt Valley, Herbert “Jay” Volz IV, Isabella Valley, Melissa Reno, Jessica (Brad) Haney, Jeremy (Lindsey) Harris, Charles (Kelly) Harris, Kathelyn Ridenour, Stacy Ridenour, Austin (Kortney) Clark, and Ryan (Meghan) Clark; and his cherished great-grandchildren: Tyler, Chloe, Charlotte, Hunter, Autumn, Dylan, Jameson, Colton, Brody, Brooklynn, Nolan, Jaxson, Mathew, and Kay. He is also survived by his siblings, Kaye Schultz, Timothy (Debbie) Volz, sisters and brother-in-law, Donna Schmidt, Kerry (Teresa) Schrock, Patti Miller and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, as well as his best friend, Wilfred Lacker.

Herb was preceded in death by his first wife, Patricia; his parents, Herbert Sr. and Lena; his brother, Tommy Volz; brothers and sisters-in-law: David Oberschmidt, Ronald Schultz, Garry Miller, Tom and Judy Schrock.

The Volz family extends heartfelt gratitude to Stoneridge Hospice in Phoenix, AZ, for their compassionate care, and to all the friends and family who have offered love and support during this time.

A memorial service will take place in Phoenix on Friday, December 27, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Friendly Village of Orangewood Clubhouse. A Michigan memorial service will be announced at a later date. Herb’s warm smile, unwavering kindness, and enduring love will be deeply missed by all who knew him. May God’s blessings bring comfort to those who mourn his loss.