Surrounded by the love of his family, Verne Wesley Bintz passed away peacefully on October 29, 2025, at nearly 98 years of age, after a long and beautiful life. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 73 years, Sally, with whom he built a lifetime of love, laughter, and adventure. He is also survived by his son Dave Bintz (Margaret); his daughters Kathy Bintz (David Garratt) and Ellen Bintz Vivoda (Mike); ten grandchildren; and eighteen great-grandchildren who will forever cherish his gentle spirit and endless encouragement.

Verne was born on November 14, 1927, in Royal Oak, Michigan. During the Depression, the family moved to a farm in Minden, Iowa, before returning to the Detroit area. At age 11, Verne began working to help support his family, and by 14 he was managing the Royal Oak movie theatre after school and on weekends—where his lifelong love of photography and classic films began. He later attended Western Michigan University before qualifying for the Naval Air program, serving in the Navy during World War II in California and Okinawa, Japan.

After the war, Verne returned to the Midwest, where he met Sally. Verne and Sally began their marriage and family in Cincinnati, Ohio, where they were active in the church and made lifelong friends. They later moved to Wheaton, Illinois, in 1965, where they built their beloved home in Arrowhead. It was there they raised their children and formed enduring friendships—hosting bridge groups, neighborhood gatherings, and pool days at Fairwind. Verne and Sally's devotion to family shaped generations and created a legacy deeply felt by all who knew them.

Verne's professional life was defined by hard work, vision, and craftsmanship. He began his career in the footwear industry, developing trusted relationships with national manufacturers, many of whom he helped grow and define their businesses. In 1976, he founded the Verne Bintz Company, dedicated to producing high-quality arch pads. What began as a small family operation in the basement quickly grew into a respected company known for reliability and service. He was later joined by his daughter Ellen—now President—and together they built a business rooted in integrity, family, and care for others. The Professional Footwear Association recognized their impact by naming its annual award for excellence in partnership and service the "Verne Bintz Vendor of the Year Award."

A man of faith and humility, Verne was a lifelong member of Gary United Methodist Church, where he served as Head Usher, Head of the Sunday School Program, and Director of the Pastor-Parish Committee. His quiet strength, compassion, and commitment to serving others reflected the same dedication that defined his family and career.

Verne loved spending summers in Michigan, especially at the cabin he built with his father on Barnes Lake, where the family enjoyed countless magical days on the water with cousins and relatives—fishing, swimming, and laughing together under the northern sky. He and Sally also shared a passion for travel, exploring Europe and capturing memories through Verne's lens as an amateur photographer.

Those who knew Verne—especially his family and friends—knew him as a kind, patient, and generous soul who always found the positive in every situation. He was never known to skip a chocolate ice cream cone or cookie and was always ready to give the priceless gift of his time. Whether listening to stories over breakfast, gathered around a poker table with friends, inventing "Bintz Boy" adventures, teaching his grandchildren how to use tools, stamp leather, or learn photography, or building treehouses in the backyard—Verne's life was defined by love and service. His legacy lives on in the hearts and memories of all who had the privilege of loving him.

The Memorial Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM with a Memorial Service at 11:00 AM followed by Military Honors at Gary United Methodist Church, 224 N Main St, Wheaton, IL 60187. To watch Verne's Service please click here.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Gary United Methodist Church in Verne's memory.