BUCHANAN – Steffen P. Baich, 69, died on August 12, 2009 at Memorial Hospital in South Bend, Ind. with his heartbroken family at his side.

Visitation will be on Sunday, Aug. 16 from 2 to 5 p.m. in the Swem Funeral Home in Buchanan.

Funeral services will be Monday, August 17 at 11 a.m. also at the funeral home. Pastor Sean Kidd of the Buchanan Christian Church will officiate.

Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Buchanan.

He was born on May 9, 1940, to Steve and Lucille Baich in Buchanan, and resided there all his life.

Steffen was a 1959 graduate of Buchanan High School. This graduating class is one of very close knit friends who meet together on a regular basis which meant a lot to him.
On April 20, 1963, Steffen married Nancy Lynn Litty.  She survives along with their sons, Todd and Chris and grandchildren Kayla Baich and Ethan Matlock-Rager.

He was preceded in death by their son, Eric Baich on Sept.16, 1998. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Terry Baich; half-brothers, Duane Weaver and Harold Baich and half-sister, Bernice Holy; as well as a niece and three nephews.

Half sister, Doreen Lovell and half-brother, Sam Baich, as well as many nieces and nephews survive him.

Steffen was a big man with an even bigger heart who had many talents. He loved to help friends, neighbors and relatives. His workshop was a place of special delight for him. It was a privilege to receive one of his woodworking creations.

Steffen retired from SEMCO Energy in May of 2002 after more than 20 years of service.
He was a beloved husband and father. His sons and grandchildren were the light of his life, along with his canine friend – the big black teddy bear named “Kody.”  He also had a special fondness for the neighbor’s dog “Larry.”  Steffen will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Southwestern Michigan, 641 S Crystal Ave., Benton Harbor, MI 49022.

Friends may sign the online guestbook at www.swemfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements were by Swem Funeral Home, Buchanan.