Betty June Van Keuren

Betty "June" (Dickens) Van Keuren, of Clarkston, went home to meet her Savior January 4, 2026.  She was preceded in death (2014) by her loving husband of 62 years, Max Van Keuren.  June was a devoted mother to Shellie (Rich) Sanders and adoring grandmother to Lucas and Jillian Sanders.

June was born at home in Detroit, Michigan on November 3, 1931. She was the only child of the Reverend Lawrence and Esther Dickens. June spent her early years growing up in Detroit. She had fond memories of spending summers visiting family in Poplar Bluff, MO. When June was a teen, her dad was called by God into full time Christian service. The Dickens family moved to the Dallas/Fort Worth area of Texas while Rev. Dickens attended Dallas Theological Seminary.  Once finished with seminary, they returned to Michigan to begin their ministry at Tabernacle Baptist Church in Hazel Park and eventually started Stone Baptist Church in Auburn Heights, Michigan.

June attended Avondale High School where she met a handsome young "fella" (as her dad would often refer to him) named Max. The two dated through high school. After graduating from Avondale in 1949, June boarded a bus and headed to Greenville, SC to attend Bob Jones University. During her two years at the university, she enjoyed working at the school's radio station. She would often reminisce about her work there as well as dorm life at Margaret Mack. Always the rule follower, June would feel a bit rebellious when staying up past curfew and studying with a flashlight under her bedcovers!

While on a break from school, Max proposed, June accepted, and they were married by her father at Stone Baptist Church on June 14, 1952. They honeymooned in a small cabin in Tawas City. Within a few short months, Max was drafted and on his way to Korea where he served in the army for two years during the Korean War. They wrote to each other nearly every day. June treasured those letters and kept them her entire life.

Once Max returned from Korea, they began their life together in Auburn Heights, where they worked and attended Stone Baptist Church, supporting her parents' ministry—June played the piano and both she and Max taught Sunday School. It was a proud moment for them when they were able to build their first house on Juniper Street.

Though not able to have children of their own, Max and June always loved kids. They treasured the times they would spend with their nieces and nephews.  In 1964, after several fostering experiences, God provided the opportunity to make it "for real" when they adopted Shellie. The family of three moved to Clarkston in 1970 and have lived there ever since. Once in Clarkston, they joined Maranatha Baptist Church where they were active members, worshipping and serving in various capacities for over 50 years. Many deep and lifelong friendships were formed at Maranatha. Both Max and June cherished these relationships and thoroughly enjoyed the time spent together at Friday night dinners, holiday get-togethers, and vacationing in Florida.

Over the years June held various jobs, from working at Sears to Friend of the Court in Oakland County.  When Shellie was a baby, June went to night school and trained to be a court stenographer. In 1972 she accepted the Court Reporter position at the 52-2 district court where she worked for the Honorable Judge Gerald McNally for over 25 years. June loved her job and truly enjoyed being in a position to help people.

June loved to read and could often be found curled up with a good book. After retiring in the late 1990s, June returned to her first love—being a homemaker. She cared for Max and their family, creating a warm and welcoming place to gather—especially for Sunday dinners and July 4th fireworks. The role of doting grandma came easily to her. June supported her family by attending countless sporting events, concerts, recitals, etc.

June was always known for her smiling face and listening ear. Whether a friend or stranger, she would be happy to hear your story, offering advice or encouragement. She always tried to stay positive and see the best in people.

June spent the last 5 years of her long life at Vista Springs assisted living facility in Clarkston, where she was known as "Miss Betty." Even as her health declined, June maintained her sweet spirit. She was always so appreciative of the workers, staff, and all those who visited.  A very big thank you to the team at Vista Springs for lovingly caring for June.

Friends may visit Lewis E. Wint & Son Funeral Home, Clarkston on Thursday, January 8th from 4:00pm-8:00pm.

Funeral Service Friday, January 9th at 10:00am at Lewis E. Wint & Son Funeral Home, Clarkston with Pastors Stephen and Michael Sanders officiating.

Private interment Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly.

Memorials may be made to Maranatha Baptist Church, 5790 Flemings Lakes Road, Clarkston, MI 48348 or Heart to Heart Hospice .

Please leave a memory or condolence on the online guestbook at www.wintfuneralhome.com