On May 29, 2023, DeWayne Carl Birch, Sr. passed away. He was the second oldest of three children born to Robert and Cassey Birch in Battle Creek, Michigan. DeWayne graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1960 where he played and excelled at not only Track and Field, but Basketball, Football, and Softball. DeWayne went to Lansing Community College to become an Electrician. After receiving his certification, he started working at General Motors where he retired after 32 years of service. During his leisure time, DeWayne loved to bowl and enjoyed watching sports, especially MSU Football games.

DeWayne married Ellawyne Austin on May 18, 1991. They celebrated their 32-year anniversary before his passing. DeWayne enjoyed talking to family about the Bible and Jehovah, he often expressed that he missed his field servicing which required him to go door to door. This was his passion and his life, another part of his life and passion was his family.

DeWayne is preceded in death by: his parents, Robert Birch and Cassey (Buckner) Birch Brown; sisters, Aretha Hargrove and Joyce Nicols. Many precious memories will be cherished by: his wife, Ellawayne Austin-Birch; daughters, Deborah Ford of Virginia Beach, VA, Renee Birch, and Nicole (Demario) Morgan, of Lansing; sons, DeWayne Birch Jr., Willie Jr., Victor, Jeffery (Anitra), Derrick (Terri), Quinn (Sonya), all of Lansing, and Steve (Heather) of Arizona; 31 grandkids; 26 great grandkids; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Arrangements for Mr. Birch are as follows: