Patrick Joseph Dettling

Patrick Joseph Dettling, age 85, of Clinton passed away Friday, Feb. 19, 2021, at home surrounded by his family. Pat was born March 17, 1935, in Plymouth, Michigan, the son of the late Russell and Irene (Cavanaugh) Dettling. On January 21, 1961, Pat married his wife of 60 years at St. Mary Catholic Church in Adrian, Michigan. 

Pat graduated from Clinton High School in 1953, and went on to complete an apprenticeship from Henry Ford Community College earning his license as a certified Millwright. He was a life long member of St. Dominic Catholic Church in Clinton. He proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Army. After 31 years of working for Ford Motor Company, he retired in 1994 and enjoyed many years traveling and spending time with family and friends. Pat had a love of tinkering on most anything, but he particularly enjoyed working on cars and motorcycles. He was genuinely known as a Mr. Fix-it.

Besides his wife, Jo Ann, Patrick is survived by five sons, Mark (Jo) Dettling of Chelsea; Brian (Jamie) Dettling of West Jordan, Utah; Christopher Dettling of Tecumseh; Joseph (Melissa) Dettling of Monroe; and Matthew Dettling of Tecumseh; and nine grandchildren, Nathan, Steven, Grace, Clare, Perry, Keely, Jack, Madeline, and Molly. In addition to his parents, Pat was preceded in death by four brothers and two sisters.

In accordance with Patrick’s wishes cremation has taken place. A private service will be held at a later date. Interment will be in St. Dominic Catholic Cemetery in Clinton. Memorial contributions may be made to Arbor Hospice and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Arrangements are under the care of the Clinton Chapel of Handler Funeral Homes. Condolences may be offered to the family at handlerfuneralhomes.com.