Dr. Paul Theodore DeWitt D.D.S.

(May 15, 1922 - August 18, 2007)

Dr. Paul T. DeWitt, DDS, of Lansing, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 18, 2007.

He was the youngest of nine children of Henry and Anna DeWitt of Fremont. He was born on May 15, 1922. Paul attended Fremont Public School, and was a 1940 Fremont High School graduate. He did his undergraduate work at Hope College and the University of Wisconsin. After 37 months in the U.S. Army, during and after World War II, 11 of which spent in India, he was accepted at the University of Michigan Dental School from which he graduated in 1951. He was on staff at the Ypsilanti State Hospital until coming to Lansing to start private practice in 1955, from which he retired in 1987.

He was very active in St. Gerard Parish from 1960 on. Dr. DeWitt functioned as an early lector, cantor and choir member for over 40 years, plus various other volunteer services at the church and school. He was also a member of the Central District, State of Michigan and American Dental Association. He belonged to the VFW and Knights of Columbus, Richard Council #788, 3rd Degree.

Traveling was always of great interest to him, visiting all 50 states and every continent except Antarctica. Paul had a real love of gardening, especially of flowers. He was an avid U of M football fan. His family was the greatest joy of his life. He and his loving wife, Gerry, were married just short of 59 years.

Besides Gerry, survivors include their four sons and families, Dr. Paul (Linda) of Hastings, Dr. Stephen (Marilyn) of Troy, Kevin (Theresa) of Holland, Ohio, and Dr. Mark (Kathleen) of Lansing. Also surviving are eight granddaughters, Elizabeth, Dr. Marie, Kathryn, Carolyn, Jennifer, Rachel, Laura and Jennifer Rose; eight grandsons, Christopher, John Paul, Thomas, Matthew, Patrick, Timothy, Stephen and Nathaniel; a sister, Anita Bradshaw of Fremont; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by an infant grandson, Andrew, who passed away in 1984.

The Funeral Mass was celebrated on Wednesday at the St. Gerard Catholic Church, with the Rev. Fr. John Klein as celebrant. Rite of Committal followed in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. Donations may be made to St. Gerard Church Organ Fund or Sparrow Hospice Services. Condolences may be made at www.palmerbush.com. Arrangements by Palmer Bush and Jensen Family Funeral Homes-Delta Chapel.