Ernest Hervey Beutler

Ernest Hervey Beutler, 93 of Traverse City passed away Sunday, December 18, 2016 at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. Ernie was born on Tuesday, June 26, 1923 to the late George and Maude (Parks) Beutler in Weidman, Michigan and married Betty Ann Bellows on Wednesday, Sept. 10, 1947 in Rosebush.

An oil field engineer and oil well driller, Ernie left the profession to serve as a member of our armed forces, having served in the U. S. Navy from 1943 until 1946, being discharged as a fireman first class. Following his discharge, he returned to his profession.

As the oil and gas industry expanded throughout 1950's and 1960's, Ernie and Betty lived in several different areas while Ernie drilled wells and developed his expertise of the trade. While living in Roscommon, Michigan he was a life member of the Charles M. Engel VFW Post 4159 and served as a member of the Roscommon School Board. In 1972, Ernie and Betty moved to Traverse City where he was a member of Lodge 222 of the Free and Accepted Masons in Traverse City, as well as the High 12 club and the Traverse Bay Area 147 Order of the Eastern Stars. He enjoyed, bowling, spending time at St. Martins Point and was a lifelong Detroit Tiger fan.

Ernie is survived by his wife Betty; children Terry Beutler, Larry Beutler, Kay (David) Lurie, Jane (Terry) Boursaw and daughter-in-law Susan Beutler, 9 grandchildren, many great grandchildren, a brother John (Donna) Beutler, and many extended family members. He was preceded in death by his sons Dale and James, sisters, Helen Cotter and Marilyn Watts and brother Donald Beutler.

Visitation for Ernie will take place from 4 until 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21 at The Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home with a Masonic Candlelight service at 7 p.m. The funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 22 at Central United Methodist Church with visitation one hour prior to the service. The Rev. Dale Ostema will officiate. Burial will be in Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Ernie's name can be directed to the Cowell Family Cancer Center, c/o Munson Healthcare Regional Foundation, 1150 Medical Campus Dr., Traverse City, MI 49684.