Patricia J. Hartz (Germain)

Patricia J. Hartz (Germain) born on June 20, 1936, in Bay City, Michigan, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025, at Bay City Comfort Care. Patricia was a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of many.

As an unassuming soul, Patricia had a knack for making every gathering feel special. Her sweet, kind demeanor was instantly felt by all who crossed her path, and her honesty was refreshing; she would express her thoughts candidly, with a genuine spirit. Family and friends fondly remember her ability to transform holidays into magical experiences, often centered around her delicious culinary creations. She was particularly known for her special sweet and sour meatballs, as well as her delightful cookies and coffee cakes, which she loved to bake with her family.

Patricia had numerous hobbies that brought her joy throughout her life. She reveled in the beauty of the outdoors, often seen mowing her lawn on her riding mower or tending to her garden. She enjoyed sewing, and camping were cherished activities, enjoyed alongside friends and family. Most notably, Patricia had a deep love for dogs and spent countless hours creating joyful memories with her loved ones.

She leaves behind her daughter, Colleen T. (David) Betzold; her son, Douglas R. (Holly) Hartz; as well as five cherished grandchildren: Bethany (Betzold) LaFray, Shaun Betzold, Adam Betzold, Dustin Hartz, and Kaitlin (Luke) McDaniel. Patricia's legacy continues through her eight great-grandchildren: Hannah (Megan) Post, Brendan LaFray, Alexis Betzold, Maci Betzold, Paisley Betzold, Jonah Hartz, Luna Hartz, and Amelia McDaniel. Patricia was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Maude (Streu) Germain, and her husband, Ronald A. Hartz, who passed away on May 21, 2020.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at McLaren Hospice, Bay Shores Nursing Care Center, and to Bay City Comfort Care for the care they provided Patricia.

A Celebration of Life will be held in her honor on Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Gephart Funeral Home, located at 201 W Midland St, Bay City, MI 48706. With private inurnment following at Oakridge Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be considered to wishes of the family, McLaren Hospice or to Bay County Humane Society.