Jerome Henry Pitcher

Jerome (Bud) Henry Pitcher, 89, of Hartford passed away Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2021, at Lakeland Medical Center, St. Joseph.

Bud was born Aug. 2, 1931, in Watervliet Township, the son of Jerome and Ethel Pitcher, both of whom preceded him in passing. Also preceding him in passing were five sisters and one brother.

Bud was formerly employed at Haxon Dairy, Watervliet, as a milk delivery man. In the early 1960's, he purchased The Dairy Bar in Hartford, which became the “go to” place after sports events. After he sold The Dairy Bar in the late 60's, he worked at Duffy Mott and the Hartford Fruit Exchange, fruit buyer at Silver Mills in both Eau Claire, Spartanburg, South Carolina and Hart, plant manager at Carolina Apple Processors, and retired as janitor at Hartford Public Schools. After his retirement from the schools, you would see him and Daun at many of Hartford’s sports events selling tickets.

Bud’s favorite past time was his woodworking. You would see him and Daun at local craft fairs selling his beautiful tables, shelves, and holiday themed wood projects.

Bud married Daun Walker on Dec. 17, 1950. Bud and Daun just recently had the pleasure of celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary on Dec. 17, 2020. He is also survived by his wife, Daun; and his three children: Connie (Rick) VanLoon of Ludington, Cindy Gress of Hartford, Randy (Billie) Pitcher of South Haven; five grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

At this time, the family will not be holding a memorial service due to current restrictions of COVID-19. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations in Bud’s name may be made to the Hartford Athletic Department or His Place Cathedral of Faith, Covert.

The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. Those wishing to leave a condolence for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.