Albert William Plaehn Jr.

Albert William Plaehn passed away peacefully at home in Bay City, Michigan on December 16, 2024, at the age of 93. Al was born on September 16, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Albert and Emily (nee Marshall) Plaehn and spent a memory-filled childhood in South Haven, Michigan.

Al enlisted in the U.S. Navy on February 20, 1951, during the Korean War. He served on the Fletcher-class destroyer U.S.S. Abbot (DD-629) circumnavigating the globe. He was honorably discharged on February 18, 1955, as a Hospital Corpsman 1st Class. 

After his service, Al enrolled at Valparaiso University and graduated with an Electrical Engineering degree. During that time, he met his forever sweetheart, Bernice (nee Schroeder) Plaehn, marrying on June 20, 1959, and settling in Bay City working for both Newcor Corporation and Peter’s Manufacturing.

Al served as a member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary for 43 years participating in activities including open water rescues, new boater safety courses, and Auxiliary new member training. He volunteered for the Red Cross and at the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum specifically informing visitors on the inner workings of the U.S.S. Edson. 

He was a member of Faith Lutheran Church in Bay City. He was active in the choir, volunteered as an usher and elder, attended Bible Study, and served as the treasurer’s assistant. 

Al was a skilled woodworker and enjoyed creating things with his hands. He always was willing to help repair and build things for his family and others. Over the years, he had many hobbies including being an amateur (HAM) radio operator, leather tooling and building/flying model airplanes. Al was an avid reader and looked forward to his daily word search puzzles.

Al enjoyed spending time with his family during vacations, camping trips and gatherings with loved ones. He was always encouraging his children and grandchildren in their endeavors. He was a quiet and patient man with a servant’s heart.

Al will be greatly missed by his loving family and friends. Al is survived by his daughters Ruth (Walter) Lehenbauer, Elizabeth (Edward) O’Meara, Claudia Weesner, and son William (Marla) Plaehn; grandchildren, Ethan, Megan, Katelyn, and Aidan; bonus grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Melissa, Deanna, Shayne, Lorelai, and Corey; sisters-in-law Janet Schroeder; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by Bernice, his wife of 64 years, his parents, sisters Ann Greenman and Patricia Sowell, brother-in-law Leon Sowell, brother-in-law Clifford Schroeder, and niece Debra Greenman. 

His family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to his honorary family members Jaelynn (caregiver) and little buddy Leia along with his caring neighbors that support each other. Memorial gifts may be given to Faith Lutheran Church, 3033 Wilder Road, Bay City, Michigan 48706. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a military charity of your choosing. 

Celebration of life will take place on Friday, January 3, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church. Visitation will begin at 9:00 am at Faith Lutheran Church until the time of service. All are invited to a luncheon following the service. The interment will take place in South Haven, Michigan.