Erich W. von Behren

Frankenmuth, MI

Erich W. von Behren, 89, of Frankenmuth, Michigan went to be with his Lord on Tuesday, May 12, 2020. Erich von Behren was born on November 24, 1930 in Detroit, MI to the late Walter and Carolyn von Behren. He married Carol von Hoffmann on August 6, 1955 in New York City. A graduate of Concordia Teachers College in River Forest, Illinois, he went on to earn his Master of Music degree from Northwestern University in Chicago. Erich served as the Director of Music at Evergreen Lutheran Church and School for several years in Detroit. In 1968, he moved to Frankenmuth after accepting the position as Director of Music at St. Lorenz Lutheran Church and School, where he worked most of his life. In his "retirement," Erich spent a few years working as the Director of Music at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Saginaw.

Erich is survived by his wife, Carol (married 64 years); four sons Erich (Barbara) von Behren of Centennial, CO, David (Andrea) von Behren of Commerce, MI, John (Glenda) von Behren of Falls City, NE, and Paul (Sherri) von Behren of Dunwoody, GA; eleven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren. Erich was preceded in death by his brother, Werner von Behren, and his sister Isla Schulz. Erich was a wonderful and loving husband and father, a terrific role model for family and community.

Due to COVID 19 restrictions, a private service will take place. A future visitor/public celebration at St. Lorenz will be determined at a later date. Burial will take place at St. Lorenz Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the St. Lorenz Church Music Department. Arrangements entrusted to Cederberg Funeral Home of Frankenmuth, 590 N. Franklin St.