Dr. Albert William Lynch Jr., 78, loving husband and father of three beautiful children, passed away on Friday, October 6, 2023, in Traverse City, Michigan.

Albert was born in Lapeer, Michigan, on September 19, 1945 to the late Albert William Sr. and Elva (Steward) Lynch.

Albert's passion for animals led him to pursue a degree in veterinary medicine at Michigan State University, graduating in 1968. He then moved to Traverse City to start his first job at Clarke Dog and Cat Hospital. It was there that he met his beloved wife, Nan Haberlein, while sharing their mutual interest in horseback riding. They exchanged vows on December 27, 1969, at the First Congregational Church in Traverse City. Together, they built a beautiful family filled with love, devotion, and a shared journey through life's ups and downs.

Albert's dedication to his profession was unparalleled. After initially working for Brookpark Animal Hospital in Ohio, he founded his own practice, Coddingville Veterinary Clinic. However, his family's ties drew them back to Traverse City, where he established Northwood Animal Hospital. With exceptional skill and unwavering commitment, he cared for thousands of animals throughout his career. Inspired by his own health challenges and the pursuit of holistic approaches to well-being, Albert delved into Eastern Medicine, exploring avenues such as diet, herbs, and traditional Chinese medicine. In 2007, he sold his practice but couldn't stay away from helping animals. He studied acupuncture through the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society and later became a certified Veterinary Acupuncturist. In 2013, he founded Integrative Veterinary Therapies, working part-time at Companion Animal Hospital until his official retirement in 2021.

Albert approached his hobbies with the same passion and desire for mastery that he applied to his work. He immersed himself in activities such as horseback riding, downhill and cross-country skiing, triathlons, windsurfing, radio-controlled airplanes, and model cars. A talented musician, he played the guitar, piano, saxophone, ukulele, and harmonica, showcasing his versatility in several bands, including Blue Shadow and Panache, as well as in a jazz ensemble. His love for sports cars was evident through his ownership of a Corvette, Cobra, and, most recently, an Audi. His Cobra was his pride and joy, and he cherished the exhilaration of driving it around town in the warmer months.

Albert is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Nan, their children Erin (Mike) Miller, Caitlin (Bo) Wood, Albert (Amanda) Lynch, grandchildren Everette, Isaac, and Charlotte, his sister Ann (Gary) Barfknecht, numerous nieces and nephews, and a host of other loving family members and friends. He also leaves behind his beloved animals Nelson, Eddy, Hadley, Smokey, and Owen. He is preceded in death by his parents and many beloved animals that he both loved and helped.

Albert had unwavering faith that Jesus Christ was his Lord and Savior and had a deep involvement in the community at Church of the Living God. Albert will be remembered for his exceptional kindness, faith, love for animals, amazing sense of humor, and passion for knowledge and excellence in all he did. A private service has been planned and memories can be shared on Albert's tribute page at reynolds-jonkhoff.com. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be directed to the Church of the Living God, a place that held a special and cherished spot in Albert's heart. Supporting the church in his memory would be a meaningful tribute to a remarkable and brilliant soul and the faith and fellowship that meant so much to him.