Julian William Katz

Julian William Katz, 87, of Battle Creek, Michigan went to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, August 15, 2023.

Julian was born October 26, 1935, in Fredonia Township, Marshall, MI, the son of Nyle L. and Dana M. (Schafer)  Katz. He was raised  on the family centennial farm, attended Ellis Corners one-room School and was a 1953 graduate of Marshall High School. Julian earned a degree in business from Argubright Business College and continued his education at Indiana University, and University of Washington-Seattle. He honorably served his country in the Air National Guard and U.S. Air Force Reserves for eight years. Julian began his career as a bank teller and worked his way up. He was employed by People’s Savings & Loan, First Federal Savings, Great Lakes Bancorp, and TCF Financial until retiring as Vice President of Mortgage Originations after 40 + years in the banking industry.

Julian William Katz was united in marriage to Marlene Joy Winans on April 28, 1957, at Urbandale United Methodist Church. Surviving are Marlene, his wife of 66 years; their children, Karen (Stephen) Boone, Craig Katz, Shelley (Brian) Streeter all of Battle Creek; three grandchildren, Jason (Simone) Buller, Jade Boone, Deanna Katz, and four great-grandchildren, Lillian Buller, Eva Buller, Emma Lash and Lola Lash. Julian was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, Nyda Grooms, Amelia Shebel, Viola Oxrider; and a brother, Herman Katz. 

Julian and Marlene were longtime members of Urbandale United Methodist Church. They were also active at Family Altar Chapel, where they were instrumental in starting the Family Altar Christian School; Convis Union United Methodist Church; and First Wesleyan Church, where they were involved in the benevolence ministry.  Julian was a member of the Battle Creek Exchange Club, Board of Battle Creek Home Builders, Chamber of Commerce, Battle Creek Housing Development Corporation, and the Battle Creek Board of Realtors. He had a classic 1965 Ford Pickup named “Ol' Stuff” that he used to transport antiques and other treasures. He also enjoyed cruising around town with his bride in "Ol' Stuff" and attending car shows. Julian also enjoyed softball, gardening, travel, and ceramics. 

Julian was a man of integrity who loved the Lord, and loved his family well. He loved a good joke, loved to laugh, and loved spending time with his family. His grandchildren and great grandchildren would light up his day and put a smile on his face. He will be greatly missed by many, but may his legacy of love be carried on through his family for generations to come.

Friends will be received for visitation from 10-11 am on Friday, August 18, 2023 at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, where a service to celebrate Julian’s life will be officiated by Pastor James Sunnock at 11 am, Friday, August 18, 2023. Military honors and interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Marian E. Burch Adult Day Care, 1150 East Michigan Avenue, Battle Creek MI 49014. Personal messages for Julian’s family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.