Todd Havener

When reflecting on the life of Todd Havener, words such as prankster, funny and goofy come to mind, however, the word that paints the most vivid picture of him is genuine. He passionately gave of his time and resources to his family as well as the community he loved. A caring and loyal friend, a strong role model, and a positive light in the lives of many, to know him was a true honor. Gone too soon, Todd will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his many special friends and family.

Todd’s story began in 1971, a time that was just as vibrant as he was! Music continued to make a significant impact with the Beatles still on the top of the charts and the nation on the edge of the Disco era. Amidst this exciting time, Richard and Ruth (Bedient) Havener were pleased to announce the birth of their newborn baby boy, Todd born April 29th in Garden City, Michigan. His birth brought great joy into their hearts and home.

Growing up in Clinton, Todd grew to appreciate and value a hard day’s work from an early age. His father was a welder, electrician, and a salesman who shared much of his skill set with Todd as a youngster. His mother was a homemaker to Todd and his three siblings tending to their every need. As a young child, Todd was fascinated with Star Wars movies and enjoyed putting together detailed and difficult Star Wars models of the era. Basketball became his outlet as a teen and he played on the Clinton High School team. With his 6’3 frame, he was any opponent’s nightmare on the court! Todd was an exceptional student who remained humble even though he learned quicker than most and held a high GPA throughout his high school years. As most teens growing up in the 80s, he was drawn to the rise of heavy metal music and favored the likes of Ozzy Osbourne, Rush, and Iron Maiden. Music proved to be a favorite pastime of his both during his teen years as well as adulthood.

As a young adult, he developed an especially close relationship with his uncle Fred, a police officer in Detroit, who encouraged him to follow in his footsteps. After graduating with the Class of 1989, Todd set off for Western Michigan University to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice. Lucky for him, following graduation he was hired as a patrol officer with the WMU police department. Whenever the politics of the job got the best of him, he leaned on the friendships in the department for comic relief! Well-liked by his colleagues who were like brothers to him, Todd remained there for twenty-four remarkable years!

Todd’s personality drew him to all sorts of interests. He collected WWII medals over the years, a pastime that he shared with his father who was very knowledgeable about their significance. He was also an avid fan of the Detroit Tigers and never gave up hope that they would have a good season time and time again. Win or lose, he enjoyed watching sports of all kinds. An introvert to a degree, he enjoyed watching and attending sporting events as a social time to be with his close friends and family. People were instantly drawn to his laid-back personality and his terrific sense of humor as he never took life too seriously. His laughter filled up any room and brightened the lives of many. Todd’s co-workers always looked forward to the shift changes at work when they would catch up on the stories of the day’s events. He enjoyed these times as he often had a funny spin, twist, or opinion of a variety of topics. As a member of the department, he could dish it out as well as take it when it came to playing pranks on the job. To him, laughter often proved to be the best medicine!

Born with a generous heart, Todd would do anything for a friend or family member in need. He donated money for several children’s charities that were dear to his heart. When it came to him, however, he didn’t want for much. Just as long as he had his daily fix of bacon, he was happy! Bacon literally went with just about any meal he had. Todd was an exceptional human being who was always true to himself. Faced with any challenge, he never wavered from his core values and beliefs and always saw the good in others. To know a man like Todd was a sincere privilege. Not often do you find someone who has the best interests of others at heart. Described as kind beyond measure, a faithful friend, and selfless, he leaves a wonderful collection of warm memories for his loved ones to cherish for years to come. Although there is no doubt he will be greatly missed, may the hearts of all those who were touched by his presence over the years be filled with the grateful joy of knowing such a great man!

Todd Havenar, age 47, died unexpectedly on August 9, 2018, at his home. He was preceded in death by his parents. Surviving are his three brothers: Rick (Ann), David (Donna) and Michael (Carol) Havener; several nieces, a nephew, and David and Donna’s dog, “Buddy.” Cremation will take place. Friends and family can visit on Saturday (Sept. 8) from 1-3 PM at the Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive; Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900, where services will begin at 3 pm. A reception will follow in the Life Story Center. Please visit Todd’s personal web page at www.BetzlerFuneralHome.com, where you can archive a favorite memory or photo and sign his online guestbook before coming to the funeral home. In lieu of flowers please make Memorial contributions to Thin Blue Line of Michigan at www.tblofmi.com. This is an organization that assists officers who have been injured or families of officers killed in the line of duty.