1997 OBITUARIES

 

 

CHARLOTTE SHOPPING GUIDE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Charlotte Shopping Guide, Inc.

239 South Cochran

Charlotte, Michigan 48813


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Compiled by:

 

April Shaver

January 24, 2007

 

 

 

 

Glenn H. Alderson

 

   Glenn H. Alderson, 67, of Bellevue died June 10, 1997, at his home following a long illness.

   Mr. Alderson was born March 25, 1930, in Coal Springs, S.D., the son of Wallace and Irene (Briscoe) Alderson and was a graduate of Isabel High School, Isabel, S.D.  Mr. Alderson served in the U.S. Army, and was stationed at Fort Custer and Percy Jones Army Hospital in Battle Creek during World War II.  He was a meat cutter at various grocery stores in Battle Creek and worked in several local factories as a carpenter in the 1950’s-60’s.  Mr. Alderson founded and owned Dream Homes, Inc., an independent contracting and carpentry business during the 1970’s-80’s.

   He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Annette; one son, Billy Ray; two daughters, Karen and Dawn Marie; 10 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and one brother, John.

   He was preceded in death by one grandson, Toni Anderson, on June 17, 1984.

   Services were held June 13 at the Shaw Funeral Home, Lehman Chapel, Bellevue, with Pastor Stephen Covert officiating.  Interment was in the Riverside Cemetery in Bellevue.

 

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Theda B. Aleo

 

   Theda B. Aleo, 87, of Onondaga died March 4, 1997, in Lansing.

   Mrs. aloe was born Sept. 22, 1909, in Matherton, the daughter of Alpha and Gordie Etta (Willett) Sanford.  She was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Eaton Rapids.

   She is survived by three daughters, JoAnn (Allan) Ostrander of Onondaga, Fran (Art) Buelow of Lavonia, and Rosa (Bill) Risk of Lansing; two sons, Ronald (Jessie) Aleo of Mason and Duane (Dolly) Aleo of East Jordan; 12 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews.

   She is preceded in death by her husband, Leo, in 1985, and one son, Donald, in 1988.

   Mass of the Christian Burial was March 6 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church with the Rev. David Stotenbur as Celebrant.  Interment was in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery, Lansing.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Peter’s Catholic Church Building Fund or Martin Luther Holt Home.

 

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Leatha B. Alverson

 

   Leatha B. (Burnett) Alverson, 94, died Aug. 12, 1997, in Charlotte.

   Mrs. Alverson was born June 23, 1903, in Onondaga, the daughter of Erlon and Mary (Luke) Burnett.  She was a member of the Foundation Club of the Eaton Rapids Community Hospital.

   She is survived by two sisters, Leola Gray and Mary Wimberley, both of Eaton Rapids; one niece, Carol Boumiea of Eaton Rapids; five grand nieces, Laura (Richard) Offen, Caroline Barnhart, Susanne (Jason) Pierce, Lori  (Steven) Schnepp, and Mary Beth (Tim) Cole; three grand nephews, Stephen (Marlene) Curtis, Mark (Connie) Shaw, and Kevin Shaw; and two cousins, Gertrude Clough and Bonnie Jean Bodrie.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Watson in 1977.

   Services were Aug. 14 with the Rev. Wayne Foote officiating.  Interment was in East Rives Cemetery, Rives Junction.

 

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Sarah E. Ames

 

   Sarah E. Ames, 86, of Charlotte died Oct. 18, 1997.

   She was born Jan. 13, 1911, in Sunfield Township, the daughter of Joseph and Josephine (Van Buren) Smith.  She was a farmer’s wife and mother.  She was a member of the Gresham United Methodist Church, the United Methodist Women, Just-A-Mere Club, the Eaton Association for FCE, the West Chester Extension Group, and the Widow’s Club.

   She is survived by sons, Joseph (Linda) Ames of Manchester, Mich., and Herbert (Connie) Ames of Charlotte; four granddaughters; five great-grandchildren; a brother, Adrian Smith of Kentucky, and several nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert W., in 1982, daughter Susan Kay Ames in 1941, great-granddaughter, Angela L. Daniels in 1986, and brother, Clifton Smith in 1942.

   Funeral services were Oct. 22 at Pray Funeral Home, with the Rev. Jeff Bowman officiating.  Interment was at Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Eaton Community Hospice, Maple Valley Memorial Scholarship Fund, or Gresham United Methodist Church.

 

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Iva R. Amspacher

 

   Iva Ruth Amspacher, 102, of Charlotte died May 31, 1997, at Emery’s Adult Foster Care Home, Vermontville.

   Mrs. Amspacher was born Dec. 28, 1894, in Kalamo Township, the daughter of Ernest and Adeline Granger.  She graduated from Vermontville High School in 1913.  She married Floyd Amspacher Oct. 25, 1917, and they celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary.  She was a lifetime member of the N.W. Carmel Community Church and later joined the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church.  She participated as a 4-H club leader for 25 years; Farm Bureau; Eaton County and Vermontville Historical Society; Charlotte and Vermontville Garden Club; and volunteered 1,000 hours at Ft. Custer Hospital’s Greenhouse.

   She is survived by one daughter, Mary Russ of Charlotte; one grandson, Lee Russ of Charlotte; one great-granddaughter, Chelsea Lee Russ; one sister, Marjorie Childs of Vermontville; one brother, Keith (Josepha) Granger of Lansing; and 13 nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd, in 1982; one son-in-law, Harrison Russ; one granddaughter, Linda Russ; two sisters, Gertrude Tyler and Mildred Carey; and one brother, Dorr Granger.

   Services were June 4 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.  Interment was in the West Carmel Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice.

 

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Arthur W. Andrews

 

   Arthur W. Andrews, 80, of Charlotte, formerly of Olivet, died Nov. 21, 1997.

   Mr. Andrews was born in Chester Township, the son of Arthur Garfield and Birdie (Baker) Andrews.  He was a lifelong resident of Eaton County.  He served in the Army in World War II and had been employed by Eaton Corporation of Battle Creek, Aluminum Extrusions of Charlotte, and Hayes Albion Corp., from which he retired in 1979.  He married Zella Southward Feb. 14, 1946.

   He is survived by one daughter, Eldora (David) Howe of Charlotte; three sons, Melvin (Sharon) of Coldwater, Donald (Pamela) of Charlotte, and Ronald (Linda) of Athens; 15 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and one sister, Julia (Charlie) Wixon.

    He was preceded in death by his wife, Zella; his parents; one sister, Bea Poor; and three brothers, Harry, Harold, and Max.

   Services were Nov. 25 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte with the Rev. David Ames and the Rev. Charles Moreland officiating.  Military graveside services and interment were in the Perry Cemetery, Brookfield Township.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Battle Creek Health Systems Cancer Center or Good Samaritan Hospice, Battle Creek.

 

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Robert W. Archer

 

   Robert William Archer, 47 of Grand Rapids, formerly of Charlotte died Jan. 27, 1997.

   Mr. Archer was born Aug. 17, 1949, in Charlotte, the son of Virgil and Katherine (Westrick) Archer.  He was a former partner in the Meeks and Archer Law Firm in Grand Rapids.  He was a graduate of Michigan State University and of the University of Michigan cum laude.

   He is survived by his parents; six brothers, Carl (Linda) of Bellevue, Gerald (Sandra) of Charlotte; Lawrence of Grand Rapids, Charles (Amy) of Kalamazoo, Jeffrey Scott of Sarasota, Fla., and Donald (Karen) of Columbus, Ohio; two sisters, LuAnn (John) Potter of Eaton Rapids; and Carol Archer of Kalamazoo; and several nieces and nephews.

   He was preceded in death by two brothers, Kenneth in 1973, and William in 1987.

   Services were Jan. 30 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with Father Thomas Nenneau officiating.  Interment was in the West Carmel Cemetery, Carmel Township.

 

 

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Doris L. Bahr

 

   Doris L. Bahr, 70, of Charlotte, formerly of Olivet, died Feb. 26, 1997, at the Eaton County Medical Care Facility, Charlotte, after a long illness.

   Mrs. Bahr was born in Piper City, Ill., the daughter of <name omitted in original article> and Leatha (Lighty) Collins, and had been a resident of the Charlotte/Olivet area for over 50 years.  She had owned and operated adult foster care homes in the Charlotte and Olivet area for many years.

   She is survived by one son, Wayne (Kathleen) Jones of Litchfield; one daughter, Karen (George) Whitcomb of Olivet; one stepson, Charles Bahr of Charlotte; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; two sisters, Dorothy Wells of Fairbury, Ill., and Melvina Feltner of Albion; and three brothers, Richard Collins of Weidman, Ernest Serene of Albion, and Edward Serene of Muskegon.

   She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Kenneth in 1984; one sister, Zora Hess; and two brothers, Clarence and Allen Serene.

   Services were March 1 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Peter Brenner officiating.  Interment was in the Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

 

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Virginia M. Baird

 

   Virginia Marie (Chase) Baird, 81, of Charlotte and Ellenton, Fla., died Jan. 11, 1997, at her residence in Florida.

   Mrs. Baird was born Sept. 7, 1916, in Midland, the daughter of John and Rosa (Cukerman) Chase.  She married George Baird in 1937, in Midland.  She was a resident of Caro from 195101978, and was active in her husband’s business, Baird’s Air Seal of Caro.  While living in Caro, she was active at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, M.S.U. Extension Club, the Caro Lions Club Auxiliary, the Caro Firefighters Auxiliary, and the Republican Party.  She had been a resident of Sage Lake, Charlotte, and Ellenton Gardens in Ellenton, Fla. since 1978.

   She is survived by one son, James (Jeanne) Baird of Charlotte; four grandchildren, Michael Baird, Leanna Kyre, Dianna Baird, and Joanna (Charles) Malcuit; two great-grandchildren, John Eric Kyre, and Jacob Malcuit; one brother, Leo (Helen) Chase of Bay City; and four sisters, Evelyn (Floyd) Rezska of Beaverton, Bernice Collicker of Bay City, Rosa Phelps of Davison, and Clare (David) Plamondon of Gaylord.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, George, in 1985; two brothers, Frank and Tony Chase; and one sister, Mary Kneeshaw.

   Services were Jan. 15 at the Ware-Smith-Wolever Funeral Chapel, Midland, with the Rev. Father    John    Bellon   of   Assumption    B.V.M.

 

 

 

Catholic Church officiating.  Interment was in the Midland Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Charlotte.

 

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Don R. Baker

 

   Don R. Baker, 66, of Charlotte died Oct. 27, 1997.

   Mr. Baker was born April 17, 1931 in Vermontville, the son of Willis and Dona Baker.  He worked in the paint department at B.O.C. in Lansing until his retirement in 1991.  He also owned and operated Speedway Market from 1973 and 1989.  Mr. Baker was a union committee man; member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Michigan Snowmobile Association, Eaton Special Riders Volunteer Association, and the American Quarterhorse Association.

   He is survived by one daughter, Donna (Dan) Walker of Charlotte; six sons, Rod (Deb) Baker, Brian (Lynn) Baker, Mark Newman, Todd Newman, all of Charlotte, and Noel (Wendy) Baker of Jenision; two sisters, Helen Hughes of Marshall and Frances (Francis) Haff of Grand Ledge; and 10 grandchildren.

   Services were Oct. 30 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church,  Charlotte,  with  Father Thomas Nenneau

 

 

 

officiating.  Interment was in Woodlawn Cemetery, Vermontville.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Special Riding Volunteer Association.

 

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Rebecca J. Baker

 

   Rebecca “Becki” Joy Baker, 33, of Nashville, Tenn., formerly of Charlotte and Lansing, died Feb. 21, 1997, at the home of her parents in Nashville of natural causes.

   Miss Baker was the daughter of Richard and Carol Baker of Nashville.  She was a graduate of Charlotte High School and attended Lansing Community College.  She was employed by Target in Nashville and was a member of the First Baptist Church, Charlotte, where she sang in the choir and musicals.

   She is survived by her parents; one sister, Andrea Baker-Curry, and her son and two daughters, of Nashville; and a foster brother, Rick (Pam) McGrandy, and their two sons and four daughters, all of Bay City.

   Services were Feb. 25 at the Woodbine Funeral Home, Hickory Chapel, Nashville.  Memorial services are Sunday, March 16, at 2 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, Charlotte, with the Rev. Charles Moore officiating.

 

 

   Memorial contributions may be made to the family in care of Richard Baker and sent to 421 E. Thompson Lane, Apartment #69, Nashville, Tenn. 37211-2611.

 

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Sandra Baker

 

   Sandra Rae Baker, 57, of Lansing, formerly of Grand Ledge, died March 29, 1997.

   Mrs. Baker was a former accountant with Millbrook Printing Company, attended the Delta Mills United Methodist Church, and worked with Native American children as a missionary in New Mexico.

   She is survived by three daughters, Amy Baker of Charlotte, Bethany (Ed) Ady of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Melanie Baker of Lansing; two sons, Matthew (Chris) of Albert, Colo., and Mark of Lansing; six grandchildren; her parents, Harland and Charlotte Mingus of Lansing; and one brother, Harland Jr. “Butch” (Margaret) Mingus of Lansing.

   Services were April 1 at the Holihan-Atkin Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.  Interment was in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Lansing.

   Memorial contributions to Sisters Maternity Home-Women’s Shelter would be appreciated.

 

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Thomas J. Barnard

 

   Thomas J. Barnard, 64, of Charlotte died Saturday, June 21, 1997.

   Mr. Barnard was born Sept. 19, 1932, in Charlotte, the son of Murle and Marion A. (Rulison) Barnard.  He had worked as a laborer in a warehouse.

   He is survived by his mother; and brother, Robert (LouAnn) Barnard of Ocala, Fla.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Grace in 1992.

   Graveside services were June 26 at the Needmore Cemetery, Eaton County, with Pastor Jerry Slivensky officiating.  If desired, fund donations can be made to First Baptist Church of Charlotte.  Envelopes are available at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

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Charlene M. Barnes

 

   Charlene M. Barnes, 63, of Vermontville died May 23, 1997, at Michigan Capital Medical Center, Greenlawn Campus, Lansing.

   Mrs. Barnes was born Nov. 8, 1933, in Nashville, the daughter of Harold and Margaret (Winslow) Wenger.  She attended school in Nashville and graduated from Nashville High in 1951.  She married Gaylord Barnes Nov. 17, 1951.  She retired from Care Free Window Mfg. in Charlotte in 1992, as a foreman, after 26 years of service.  With her husband, she owned and operated a chicken farm in Vermontville.  She was a former member of the Woodland Eagles Club.

   She is survived by three daughters, Luanne (Linden) Aspinall of Vermontville, Janet (Keith) Lowe of Sunfield and Kathy (Brian) Strahan of Vermontville; eight grandchildren, Lucas and Jennifer Forquer, John and Jeff Aspinall, and Michael, Matthew, Heather and Rachel Strahan.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Gaylord in 1974.

   Services were May 28 at the Maple Valley Chapel-Genther Funeral Home, Nashville.  Interment was in the Woodlawn Cemetery, Vermontville.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association.

 

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Adam Barnett

 

   Adam Barnett, 80, of Springport died Oct. 28, 1997 at the home he lived at for 23 years.

   Mr. Barnett was born April 5, 1917 in Magoffin County, Ken., the son of Frank and Bertha (Perkins) Barnett.  He worked for Gale Manufacturing and Malleable Iron and Warren Sherer until 1978 after 30 years of service.  He was a member of the Faith Assembly of God, Olivet.  He married Ollie (Cole) Barnett on Feb. 4, 1937 in Grassy Creek, Ken.

   He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Ollie; two sons, Don (Janice) Barnett of Bellevue and Barry (Carol) Barnett of Battle Creek; three daughters, Faye L. (Lowell) Greene of Grand Rapids, Judy (Lester) Robinson of Olivet, and Cindy (Dale) Waun of Olivet; 18 grandchildren; and 29 great-grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Virginia Bartlett and Anna Williams; and two great-grandchildren.

   Services were Oct. 31 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Pastor Tom McLane, Todd McLane, and Winiford Collins officiating.  Interment was in the Rice Creek Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Good Samaritan Hospice or the Faith Assembly of God.

 

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Thomas B. Barrett

 

   Thomas Bruce Barrett, 52, of Charlotte died March 26, 1997.

   Mr. Barrett was born Aug. 27, 1944, in Charlotte, the son of Bruce and Esther (Howard) Barrett.  He owned and operated the Sweetwater Country Store in Vermontville.

   He is survived by his wife, Virginia; two daughters, Tracy (Kelly) Sparks of Oconto, Neb., and Kimberly Barrett of Callaway, Neb.; one son, Bruce (Sara) of Battle Creek; four grandchildren, Nicole, Thomas, Kaitlin, and Cody; three sisters, Ruth Wolcott, Jeanette (Bud) Tinkey, and Donna (Oscar) Face, all of Charlotte; and one sister-in-law, Phyllis Barrett of Charlotte.

   He was preceded in death by one brother, Jack.

   Services were March 29 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Duane Royston officiating.  Interment was in the West Carmel Cemetery, Eaton County.

 

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Rev. Gerald R. Bates

 

   Rev. Gerald R. Bates, 72, of Lake Odessa died Oct. 30, 1997, in Charlotte.

   The Rev. Bates was born in Hastings, the son of Erwin and Florence (Schneider) Bates.  He was raised in the Lake Odessa area, ordained in the Evangelical United Brethren Church, and had served Michigan congregations in Adamsville, Kessington, Reed City, Leighton Township, Battle Creek Calvary, Lansing Trinity United Methodist, Lowell, and St. Louis United Methodist Church, from which he retired.

   He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Mardelle (Harms) Bates; two daughters, Sandra Purcell of Marshall and Adrene Bates of Charlotte; one son, Kevin (Debbie) Bates of Rochester; two granddaughters; three sisters, Doris Flessner and Janice Flanigan both of Woodland, and Sherry Koewers of Kalamazoo; and one brother, Dennis Bates of Carey, Ill.

   Services were Nov. 3 at the Trinity United Methodist Church, Lansing.  Arrangements were made by the Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to a Ministerial Scholarship Fund for Stephen Sedgeman of Penzane, Cornwall, England, and may be sent to the Trinity United Methodist Church.

 

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Neva M. Baumer

 

   Neva M. Baumer, 78, of Plymouth died July 17, 1997, in South Lyon.

   Mrs. Baumer was born Sept. 18, 1918, in Lansing.  She was a homemaker.  She came to the Plymouth community in 1959 from Eaton Rapids.  She attended the First United Methodist Church.

   She was a life member of the BPOE Vivians #1780, Plymouth.  She was a past member of the Eastern Star in Eaton Rapids.

   She is survived by her daughters, Beverly (Tom) Appling of Marysville and Sharon (Rick) Spencer of South Lyon; one son, David (Kathleen) of Westland; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and one brother, Jack Harris of Eaton Rapids.

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Services were July 19 at the Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, Plymouth, with the Rev. Pauline Hart officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Elk’s Crippled Children’s Fund in Plymouth.

 

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Evison Beck Jr.

 

   Evison J. Beck Jr., 71, of Charlotte died Nov. 20, 1997.

   Mr. Beck was born Jan. 29, 1926, in Hastings, the son of Evison Sr. and Vera (Woodard) Beck.  He was a World War II U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and had been a lineman supervisor for Consumers Power for 40 years.  He married Betty Rae Owen Dec. 31, 1985.  He was a former member of American Legion Post #45, Hastings.

   He is survived by his wife, Betty; five daughters, Linda (Douglas) Klont of Eaton Rapids, LaRae (Roger) Smith, Lona (John) Houston, and Brenda (John) Bly, all of Charlotte, and Loretta (John) Lyon of Eaton Rapids; four sons, Evison (Janet) Beck III of Charlotte, Michael (Betsy) Beck of Sharon, Conn., Ted (Sue) King of Olivet, and James King of Olivet; three sisters, Alice (Harland) Babcock of Ludington, Ruth (Hugh) Bronson of New Mexico, and Anna Cairns of Hastings; 29 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Beverly; and an infant son.

   Services were Nov. 24 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Pastor Mike Knauff officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation.

 

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Ronald J. Beck

 

   Ronald J. Beck, 64, died April 15 at his residence after an extended illness.  Mr. Beck was born in Pigeon, Mich., the son of Walter and Freda (Spiehs) Beck, and had been an Olivet resident for six years, coming from Ada, Ohio.

   He was a 1950 graduate of Pigeon High School, received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Michigan in 1958-59.  He was a professor of literary criticism and esthetic theory, having taught at the Detroit Institute of Technology from 1959-66.  He received his education doctorate from Wayne State University in 1966, taught at Oregon College of Education from 1966 to 1969, Ohio Northern University from 1969-90, and at Olivet College from 1993-95.

   An emeritus professorship was bestowed on him from Ohio Northern University in 1994.  He published many articles during his tenure at Ohio Northern.

   He had served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, was a member of the Modern Language Association and the American Society for 18th-Century Studies.  His hobbies were reading, listening to music and traveling.

   Surviving are his wife, Florence (Schulze) Beck; a son, Roderick Beck of Hoboken, N.J., and many cousins.

   Funeral services were April 19 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Clark Hock, Dr. Claude Smith and Professor Robert Lietz officiating.  Interment was in Olivet Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Good Samaritan Hospice Care or the Olivet Congregational Church.

 

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William N. Beebe

 

   William N. Beebe, 67, of Marion, formerly of Charlotte died April 5, 1997.

   Mr. Beebe was born in Reed City, the son of Raymond and Ada (Carpenter) Beebe and had been a resident of Marion since 1980 going there from Charlotte.  He had been employed as a foreman at the Oldsmobile Division of General Motors, Lansing, retiring in 1980 after 30 years of service.

   He is survived by his wife, Florence (Anderson); five sons, Ernie (Pat) McCarn of Laingsburg, Butch (Dawn) McCarn of Marion, Gary (Vicki) McCarn of Charlotte, Thomas (Mary Ann) Beebe of Ashton and Don Beebe of Marion; five daughters, Deb (Ron) Howard of Charlotte, Norma (Duane) Sikkema of Marion, Janette (Hank) DeRuiter of Olivet, Jennifer (Bob) Briggs and Pam (Roger) Hennings all of Charlotte; 31 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; two sisters; and four brothers.

   He was preceded in death by his first wife, Marjorie (Kelley) in 1960; one son, Steven Beebe in 1982; two granddaughters, Sarah Beebe in 1994 and Ericka Jo Peavey in 1978; and one brother.

   Services were April 9 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Peter R.K. Brenner officiating.  Interment was in the Needmore Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Munson Hospital Cardiac Unit, Traverse City.

 

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Lloyd M. Beers Jr.

 

   Lloyd Maynard Beers Jr., 26, of Vermontville died in an automobile accident June 11.

   Mr. Beers was born April 6, 1971, in Charlotte, the son of Lloyd M. and Loretta (Spidel) Beers.  He worked as an agriculture millright at Johnson Systems in Marshall, and he was the light-heavyweight champion in arm-wrestling at the Maple Syrup Festival in 1997.

   He is survived by his wife, Cindy Sue (Rugg) Beers, son, Clayton David Beers, and daughter, Rachelle Renee Beers of Vermontville; mother, Loretta Beers of Bellevue; father, Lloyd (Pam) Beers Sr. of Charlotte; brother, Franklin (Tonia) Beers of Battle Creek; half-sisters, Alice Beers and Brenda (Joey) Beers of Burr Oak; grandmother, Jessie Beers of Bellevue; grandfather, Franklin (Zelpha) Spidel of Alabama; parents-in-law, Terry and Lorry Rugg of Vermontville; sisters-in-law, Mary (Brad) Rugg of Potterville and Amanda (Steve) Larie of Big Rapids; brother-in-law, Willis (Karrie) Rugg of Vermontville; and 11 nieces and nephews.

   He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Maynard Beers.

   Funeral services were June 14 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Scott Collier and Dan Shinaparger officiating.  Interment was in Woodlawn Cemetery in Vermontville.

 

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Joan Bennett

 

   Joan (Shaw) Bennett, 64, of Raleigh, N.C., formerly of Charlotte died Jan. 30, 1997, at Rex Hospital of Raleigh, N.C.

   Mrs. Bennett was born Feb. 25, 1932, in Chester Township, the youngest of four daughters to Don and Minnie Shaw.

   She is survived by her husband, Elmer; one son, David  and   his   wife,  and   a   granddaughter   of

 

 

 

 

 

Raleigh, N.C.; and two sisters, Carrie Satterly and Mary Lord both of Charlotte.

   Services were Feb. 3 at Sugg Chapel, Raleigh, N.C.  Interment was in the Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.

 

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Grace Blake

 

   Grace Blake passed away June 21, 1007, at the Michigan Capital Medical Center, Lansing, at the age of 90.

   She was born April 18, 1907, in Rector, Ark., daughter of George and Ida Mae (Cummings) Stallings.  Mrs. Blake retired from MSU in 1973, working in the Laundry Department.  She spent the last six years living at the River Inn Adult Foster Care Home in Sunfield, Mich.  She is survived by daughter, Mona Rose of Portland; granddaughter, Sharon Shoup of Colo.; grandson, Robert Varney of Sunfield; great-granddaughter, Karen Varney of Holt; sister, Mary Lucille Butler of Ark.; and nieces and nephews.

   A graveside service was held June 23, 1997 at the Danby Twp. Cemetery, Mulliken, with the Rev. Harris Hoekwater of the Sunfield United Methodist Church officiating.  Arrangements were made by the Rosier Funeral Home, Mapes-Fisher Chapel, Sunfield.

 

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Thomas E. Bockenstette

 

   Thomas Edward Bockenstette, 69, of Charlotte died April 27, 1997.

   Mr. Bockenstette was born Nov. 30, 1927, in Covington, Ken., the son of Francis and Angela Bockenstette.  He was an area sales and marketing representative for Standard Oil Co.  He was a former club champion of the Charlotte Country Club.  He served his country in the Army as an 82nd Airborne Paratrooper.  He pitched semi-pro baseball while in the Army.

   He is survived by one daughter, Nancy of Duck Lake; two sons, Patrick of Santa Clarita, Calif., and Michael of Spring Lake; four grandchildren; two sisters, Norma (Milton) Richardson of St. Clair Shores and Dolores (Ralph) Lake of Ft. Mojave, Ariz.; and two brothers, Francis (Edith) of Mt. Clemens and Robert (Regina) of St. Clair Shores.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret, in 1996.

   The memorial mass was April 30 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Charlotte, with Father Thomas Nenneau officiating.  Interment was in the Maple Hill Cemetery.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home.

 

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Carroll E. Boffing

 

   Carroll E. Boffing, 49, of Charlotte died May 28, 1997.

   Mr. Boffing was born Oct. 5, 1947, in Glendale, Calif., the son of Carroll and Idella Blanche (Owens) Boffing.  He was a former resident of Indianapolis, Ind., and Grant.  He was an operations director for Goodwill Industries, Heartland of Michigan of Battle Creek.  He married Elaine Brummel on Jan. 1, 1970, in Grant.  He was a member of the Charlotte Christian Reformed Church, former plant manager of Jansko, Inc., and served in the U.S. Air Force for four years with 27 months service in Vietnam.  He graduated from Parachute Jump Training and Survival School.

   He is survived by his wife, Elaine; one son, C. Eric (Mary) Boffing III of Lansing; one daughter, Rebecca Boffing of Charlotte; one grandson, Calvin Boffing; two brothers, Scott and Larry both of Indianapolis, Ind.; and two sisters, Darlene (Harold) Ambrose of McCordsville, Ind. and Nicki Smith of Indianapolis, Ind.

   Services were May 31 at the Charlotte Christian Reformed Church.  Interment was in the Chubbuck Cemetery, Kent County.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Eaton Community Hospice or Goodwill Industries, Heartland of Michigan.

 

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Franklin D. Boggs

 

   Franklin D. “Burr” Boggs, 62,  of Eaton Rapids died Jan. 5, 1997, in Eaton Rapids.

   Mr. Boggs was born March 24, 1934, in Floyd Co., Ken., the son of Walter and Mary (Hull) Boggs.  He retired from Michigan Packaging Corporation in 1991 after 21 years of service.

   He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Fay; three daughters, Anita (Nelson) Wheaton of Gaylord, Diane (Dale) Newsome of Marion, Ohio, and Merry (Mike) Reading of Hollywood, Fla.; two sons, Dale (Dorenda) of Kentwood, and Pat (Lori) of Ionia; 18 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; three brothers, J.C. Boggs, and Sonny (Marcia) Boggs all of Kentucky, and Danny Boggs of Tennessee; and one sister, Helen (Fred) Brown of New York.

   Services were Jan. 8 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.  Interment was in the Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

 

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Neola H. Bosworth

 

   Neola H. (Carr) Bosworth, 81, of Eaton Rapids died April 11, 1997, at the Eaton Rapids Community Hospital.

   Mrs. Bosworth was born in Springport and was a lifetime area resident, graduating from Eaton Rapids High School Class of 1933.  She worked as a bookkeeper for several auto dealerships in Charlotte and surrounding areas.  She was a member of the Eaton Rapids Congregational Church, the Mizpah Guild and the Eaton Rapids Rebekah Lodge.

   She is survived by two daughters, Nancy (Robert) Griggs of Eaton Rapids and Mary Lou (Steve) Fitzpatrick of Charlotte; two brothers, Howard (Mary) of Burgess of Lansing and Russell (Meredith) Burgess of Lindale, Texas; one sister, Maxine (Orland) Stanley of Eaton Rapids; grandchildren, Jason Griggs of Charlotte, Lee Ann Griggs of Eaton Rapids, Jennye Vahs of Bellevue and Jeffrey Fitzpatrick of Charlotte; one stepson, Dr. Quinton Bosworth of Charlotte; step-grandchildren, Quin (Diana) Bosworth, Kris (Earl) Boehmer, Beth (Curtis) Hedrick and Kelly Bosworth; and five great-grandchildren. 

   She was preceded in death by her first husband, Leo Carr, in 1953, and her second husband, Myron Bosworth in 1978; her parents, Glenn and Eula Burgess; and one step-granddaughter, Missy Bosworth.

   Services were April 14 at the Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with Pastor Tom Evans officiating.  Interment was in the Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the First Congregational Church, Eaton Rapids.

 

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Ruth L. Braden

 

   Ruth L. Braden, 76, of Charlotte died Aug. 9, 1997, at Hayes Green Beach Hospital.

   Mrs. Braden was born in Lansing, the daughter of Paul and Frances (Scott) Hosmer.  She worked at Dewey’s Coffee Corner & Greenlight Restaurants as a waitress.  Also, she was a past president of VFW Auxiliary in Nashville.

   She is survived by her 3 daughters, Arlene Ramirez and Barbara Case both of Charlotte, and Judy Case of Texas; 2 sons, Jim Case of Ohio, and Carroll Case of Charlotte; 2 brothers, Robert Hosmer of Battle Creek, and Ronald Hosmer of Florida; sister, Betty Meade of Nashville; sister-in-law, Bernetta Davies of Charlotte; 28 grandchildren; and 30 great-grandchildren.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert E. Braden.

   Services were Aug. 13 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home.

 

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Alden J. Bradford

 

   Alden James Bradford, 70, of Eaton Rapids died Dec. 27, 1996, in Lansing following a terminal illness.

   Mr. Bradford was born Dec. 29, 1925 in Hamlin Township, the son of Walter and Clara (Kellogg) Bradford.  He served in the Navy during World War II, had worked for Allied Products in Eaton Rapids, and had retired from Dowding’s Tool and Die in Narrow Lake.  He was a member of the F&AM Lodge #63 in Eaton Rapids, a member of the American Legion Post #15 and the VFW Post #1283, both of Eaton Rapids.

   He is survived by his wife, Patsy; son, James (Linda) Bradford of Brighton; three daughters, Krista Wainright, Karen (Rick) Cataline, and Annette Boedeker, all of Eaton Rapids; five grandchildren; one sister, Winona (Bob) Davis of Battle Creek; four brothers, Kyle (Margaret) Bradford, Jean (Cernyw) Kline, Bill (Marlene) Bradford, all of Eaton Rapids, and John (Victoria) Bradford of Dimondale; sister-in-law, Esther Bradford of Colorado; and numerous nieces and nephews.

   Services were Dec. 30 at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids with the F&AM Lodge Chaplin Victor Alt officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospital, P.O. Box 635, Charlotte MI  48813, in memory of Alden J. Bradford.

 

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Jerry Bradford

 

   Jerry Bradford, 63, of Brady, Texas, formerly of Charlotte, died Dec. 21, 1997, at his home after a long illness.

   Mr. Bradford was born Dec. 18, 1934.  He married Maxine Pratt April 2, 1957.  He served in the Air Force during the Korean War.

   He is survived by his wife, Maxine; one son, John Bradford of Texas; daughter, Nancy Bradford of Texas; one granddaughter; one grandson; one brother, Jim Bradford of Detroit; and several nieces and nephews.

   Cremation has taken place.  Services were Dec. 27 at the VFW Hall in Brady, Texas.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Hill Billy Hits Building Fund: Ivell Smith, 1804 S. High, Brady Texas  76825.

 

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Paul F. Bradley

 

   Paul F. Bradley, 82, of Charlotte died April 8, 1997.

   Mr. Bradley was born Feb. 9, 1915, in Chester Township, the son of Frank and Carrie (Whelan) Bradley.  He was a farmer and owned his own farm.  He was a former Benton Township Supervisor and past president and member of the Eaton County Farm Bureau.

   He is survived by one brother, Russell (Dorothy) of Charlotte; three sisters, Ruth Wright of Lansing, Doris Kent of Leslie and Esther Friel of Lansing; and many nieces and nephews.

   He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Arthur and Elmer; and one sister, Frances Canfield.

   Services were April 11 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.  Interment was in the Gresham Cemetery, Chester Township.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton County Cancer Society or the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church.

 

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Vivian M. Bradley

 

   Vivian Maxine Bradley, 76, of Charlotte died Feb. 13, 1997.

   Mrs. Bradley was born Nov. 23, 1920, in Charlotte, the daughter of Wellman and Mabel (Rogers) Wilson.  She was a former member of the Northwest Walton Grange, Bellevue Whirlaways, Bud’s Duds Square Dance groups, Eaton County 4-H Extension, and 4-H sewing leader.

   She is survived by her husband, Werlin; two daughters, Janet (Alan) Ruhl of Fowler, and Linda (Terry) Rawson of Charlotte; one son, Darryl (Barbara) Bradley of Marshall; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and one sister, Marjorie Force of Ann Arbor.

   Services were Feb. 15 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Edna Fleming officiating.  Interment was in the West Carmel Cemetery, Eaton County.

 

 

  Memorial contributions may be made to the Barry/Eaton County Home Health Care, Eaton Community Hospice, or American Cancer Society.

 

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Robert L. Brandon

 

   Robert Loyd Brandon, 72, of Charlotte died May 25, 1997.

   Mr. Brandon was born Oct. 26, 1924, in Moorestown, the son of Alza Albertus “Bert” and Jane (Turner) Brandon.  He worked for Aluminum Extrusions/Hoover for 33 years, until his retirement is 1986.  He was a member of the First Congregational Church, Charlotte, for over 40 years.

   He is survived by his wife, Betty; two sons, Charles (Barb) of Charlotte and Kevin of Clarksburg, W. Va.; two daughters, Pamela (Gerald) Johnson of Olivet and Susan (Larry) Pifer of Charlotte; 14 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and one sister, Kathryn (Milan) Tappen of Charlotte.  He was preceded in death by three sisters, Mable Fox, Lillian Coon and Nora Braden; and four brothers, Albert, John, Glenn and Roger.

   Services were May 28 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. R.K. Brenner officiating.  Interment was in the Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the First Congregational Church, Charlotte, or the American Heart Association.

 

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Thomas O. Brands

 

   Thomas Owen Brands, 60, of Sunfield died May 17, 1997.

   Mr. Brands was born Nov. 9, 1936, Owosso, the son of Owen and Alice Brands.  Shortly thereafter, his parents moved to Sunfield, operating the Sun Valley Court Motel and Restaurant.  As a young man he worked at the Sunfield Farmers Elevator for several years.  He married Phyllis Gage Potter on Feb. 12, 1960.  Phyllis had two young daughters which he accepted as his own.  In June of 1964, they moved to Sunfield.  For a short time he worked at Ledge Industries of Grand Ledge.  In 1973 he began working for Roberts Sinto Corporation also of Grand Ledge as a painter.

   He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Phyllis; four children, Tom Brands Jr. of Sunfield, Richard (Sandy) Brands of Ionia, Jean (Cecil) Kirchen of Mulliken and Marcia (Barry) McIntyre of Grand Ledge; 10 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; his mother; and several aunts, uncles, cousins, brother, and sister-in-laws.

   He was preceded in death by his father.

   Services were May 21 at the Sunfield United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Harris Hoekwater officiating.  Interment was in the Sunfield Cemetery.  Arrangements were made by the Rosier Funeral Home, Mapes-Fisher Chapel, Sunfield.

 

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Wendell B. Brangwyn

 

   Wendell B. Brangwyn, 59, of Charlotte, formerly of Olivet, died Oct. 19, 1997, as the result of a motorcycle accident.

   Mr. Brangwyn was born in Olivet, the son of James G. and Doris (Schriber) Brangwyn.  He was a lifelong Charlotte/Olivet area resident.  He was a graduate of Olivet High School and has served in the U.S. Army.  Mr. Brangwyn was currently employed by General Motors, Lansing, where he worked for 17 years.  Previously, he had been employed at Davis Pontiac and Tom Rutherford Ford in Charlotte.

   He is survived by his two sons, Steven Brangwyn of Lansing and Mark Brangwyn of Potterville; 3 grandchildren; his mother, Doris Brangwyn of Olivet; and brother, Jim Brangwyn of Olivet.

   He was preceded in death by his father, James Brangwyn; and sisters, Lois Bosher and Carol Brangwyn.

   Services were Oct. 23 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral  Chapel,  Charlotte,  with the Chaplain Art

 

 

 

Foster officiating.  Interment was in Oakridge Cemetery, Marshall.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

 

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Eugene D. Braun

 

   Eugene D. Braun, 68, of Charlotte died Sept. 28, 1997, at the Hayes Green Beach Hospital, Charlotte.

   Mr. Braun was born April 23, 1929, in Ann Arbor, the son of Arthur and Lydia (Zumstein).  He was a very active member of the Bethel U.C.C. of Freedom Twp., serving on many boards and active in many organizations.  He was also a member of the First Congregational U.C.C. of Charlotte and very active in many organizations.  He had owned and operated with his family the Braun Implement Dealership in Bridgewater since 1947.  He served in the Army during the Korean Conflict.

   He is survived by his wife, Joyce; three daughters, Beverly (Duane) Feldkamp of Bridgewater, Patrice Braun of Charlotte, and Karen (Mike) Miller of Ypsilanti; four grandchildren; sister, Joyce (James) Romine of Coldwater; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

   Cremation has taken place.  Services were Oct. 2 at the First Congregational U.C.C., Charlotte, with Rev. Peter Brenner officiating.  Also on Oct. 3 at the Bethel U.C.C., Freedom Township, with the Rev. Richard E. Hardy and Rev. Peter Brenner officiating.  Arrangements were made by Robison-Bahnmille Funeral Home, Saline.

   Flower contributions may be made to the Braun family private burial.

 

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Dr. B. Phillip Brown

 

   Dr. B. Phillip Brown, 92, of Charlotte died Aug. 4, 1997, in Charlotte.

   Mr. Brown was born Feb. 1, 1905, in Belding, the oldest child of Byron and Jeanette (Reed) Brown.  He had been a Charlotte resident since 1922.  He was a graduate of Charlotte High School, Olivet College, and the University of Michigan Medical School.  He returned to Charlotte in 1935 and continued his general medical practice until 1962.  He then became the medical director-health officer for the Barry-Eaton County Health Departments and was instrumental in combining two into a District Health Department.

   He was a veteran of World War II, past master and life member of Charlotte Lodge #120 F&AM, Chapter #82 RAM, and Charlotte Commandery #37 Knights Templar.  He was also a past president and Paul Harris Fellow of the Charlotte Rotary Club and a long time member of both the Charlotte Country Club and First Congregational Church, Charlotte.   Throughout his medical career, he was affiliated with many organizations dealing with his profession.

   He is survived by one daughter, Barbara (Henry) Eckfield of Rochester Hills; three grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; one sister, R.G. (Dorothy) Snyder of Holt; and one brother, J.C. Brown of Lansing.

   He is preceded in death by his wife, Millicent (Moyer) and one son, Bruce.

   Services were Aug. 7 at the First Congregational Church, Charlotte, with the Rev. Z. William Colson officiating.  Private interment was Aug. 7 at Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.  Arrangements were made by the Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Charlotte Cemetery Co. or First Congregational Church.

 

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Samantha Good Brown

 

   Samantha Good Brown died Sept. 30 at her home in Newaygo Township.

   She is survived by one sister, Dagmar Streeter of Charlotte; one son, Terry D. Good of Sparta; six grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.

   She was predeceased by her husband, Leland, her parents, Stanley G. and Dagmar Kucera; one sister, Yvonne Boyer; and brother-in-law, Howard F. Streeter.

   Graveside services were Oct. 3 at Woodlawn Cemetery in Grand Rapids, with Dagmar Street officiating.  Arrangements were made by Metcalf’s Funeral Home, Grand Rapids.

 

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Jack D. Bruce

 

   Jack D. Bruce, 75, of Olivet died Dec. 31, 1996, at Hayes Green Beach Hospital, Charlotte, where he was taken after being stricken at home.

   Mr. Bruce was born in Byron, the son of Douglas and Juanita (Moore) Bruce.  He was a 1938 graduate of Olivet High School and had attended Tri-State College in Angola, Ind.  He served as a B-26 pilot in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II and had worked as a building inspector for Eaton County, previously serving as superintendent of public works for the city of Olivet.  He had also been employed by Miller Industries, Reed City; Oldsmobile Division of General Motors Corp., Lansing; The Ronan & Kunzl Co. of Marshall; and the former Wilcox-Gay in Charlotte.  He was a member of the Olivet Congregational Church and Seniors Golf League at the Olivet Country Club.

   He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Elaine (Peterson); three daughters, Christine (Tom) Martz of Reed City, Catherine (Dan) Astleford of Jackson, and Amy Bruce of Bellingham, Wash.; one son, Mark of San Jose, Calif.; nine grandchildren, Joseph and Jennifer Jefts, Tim, Heidi, and Kris Martz, Ryan and Christopher Cilibraise, Kasey (Dave) Churchill and Charlie Astleford; one brother, Robert (Dorothy) of Crystal Beach, Fla.; one sister, Geri Bruce of Lansing; one aunt, Vica Bruce of Charlotte; and many nieces and nephews.

   Cremation has taken place.

   Memorial services were Jan. 4 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Clark Hock officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Olivet Congregational Church or Michigan Arthritis Foundation.

 

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Joshua Ray Bryant

 

   Joshua Ray Bryant, infant son of Terry and Martha (Merrifield) Bryant of Potterville died May 2, 1997, at Sparrow Hospital, Lansing, where he had been a patient since birth, April 9, 1997.

   He is survived by his parents; grandparents, Jane Merrifield, Ronnie Bryant, and Phillip Merrifield, all of Charlotte, and Janet Bryant of Warren; and great-grandparents, Evelyn and Herman Hale of Lansing and Rose Badgero of Coleman.

   Services were May 6 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with Pastor Darrell Johnson officiating.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

 

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Gaylord C. Burkett

 

Gaylord C. Burkett, 76, of Eaton Rapids died April 11, 1997.

   Mr. Burkett was born Aug. 20, 1920, in Eaton County, the son of Claude and Grace (Griffith) Burkett.  He was a member of the Eaton Rapids Jehovah Witnesses Congregation and retired from Hager-Fox in 1993.

   He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Joni; two daughters, Brenda (Bruce) Maurer of Charlotte and Lola (James) Masters of Eaton Rapids; one son, Claude (Donna) Burkett of Oakfield, N.Y.; 10 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two brothers, Holland (Isabell) Burkett and Robert (Fern) Burkett, all of Bellevue; one sister, Kathryn Stamm of Hastings; one brother-in-law, Harry Augustine; and many nieces and nephews.

   He was preceded in death by his sister, Margaret Augustine.

   Services were April 12 at the Kingdom Hall of the Jehovah’s Witnesses in Charlotte.  Arrangements were made by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.

 

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Esta V. Burns

 

   Esta V. Burns, 85, of Eaton Rapids died Dec. 3, 1997, in Lansing.

   Mrs. Burns was born Nov. 14, 1912, in Clarksville, the daughter of Albert and May (Studt) Wigfield.

   She is survived by her two daughters, Barbara McAdam of Jackson and Marjorie (Bill) Hartel of Potterville; three sons, David Burns of Eaton Rapids, Dennis (Janet) Burns of Lowell, and Philip (Faye) burns of Eaton Rapids; 11 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Thad Wigfield of Lowell and Wage Wigfield of Battle Creek; and one sister, Veneta Terrell of Saranac.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Orville.

   Services were Dec. 6 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with the Pastor Dennis Perkins officiating.  Interment followed at Munger Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Wesleyan Church of Eaton Rapids or Visiting Nurse Hospice.

 

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Linda Lee Burt

 

   Linda Lee (Shipman) Burt, 50, of Naperville, Ill., (formerly of Vermontville), died Aug. 1, 1997, at Edward Hospital in Illinois.

   She was born in Hastings Nov. 13, 1946, the daughter of Paul and Louise Shipman.  She had been a resident of Naperville since 1975 and was employed as a commercial banker at Continental Bank of Chicago and Bank of America.  She also attended St. Johns Episcopal Church.

   She is survived by one daughter, Amy Lynn of Naperville, and three brothers, Duane Shipman of Vermontville, Gary Shipman of Stugis, and Mark Shipman of Mason.

   She was preceded in death by her parents.

   Services were Aug. 6 at the Rosier Funeral Home, Mapes-Fisher Chapel, Sunfield.  Interment was at Sunfield Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Amy Lynn Burt Educational Fund.

 

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Denzil Burton

 

   Denzil Burton, 70, of Mulliken died June 1, 1997, at a Lansing hospital, following a long illness.

   Mr. Burton was born April 2, 1927, in Seyco, Ken., the son of Evans and Myrtle (Perkins) Burton.  He was a retired Oldsmobile (Plant 2) employee.

   He is survived by his wife, Rose; two daughters, Rebecca (Bill) Reed of Sunfield and Tamara (Tim) Kelley of Grand Ledge; five sons, Larry of Lansing, Dennis (Lisa) of Grand Marais, Minn., Ricky of Durand, and Troy and Todd at home; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and his mother and father-in-law, Cleora and Angus Berry of Grand Ledge.

   He was preceded in death by his grandson; his parents; four brothers; and three sisters.

   Services were June 3 at the Barker-Leik Funeral Home, Mulliken, with Pastor Wayne Compton officiating.  Interment was in the Meadowbrook Cemetery, Mulliken.

 

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William R. Butler

 

   William R. “Bill” Butler, 81, of Grand Ledge passed away Nov. 20, 1997, at his residence.

   Mr. Butler was a member of the Eagle Lodge #1039 and DeWitt Moose Lodge #2291.  He retired from Motor Wheel in 1976.  He was a Veteran of World War II, where he served in the Sea B’s.  Mr. Butler was a lifetime area farmer.

   He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Elaine; one son, Allan (Barbara) Butler of Lansing; two daughters, Gloria Moon of Grand Ledge and Rebecca (Richard) Rogers of Trumbell, Conn.; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two sisters, June (Richard) King of Charlotte and Marian Wright of Woodland; and some dear friends.

   He was preceded in death by his two sons, Dave and William; two brothers, Tom and Phillip Butler.

   Services were Nov. 24 at the Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.  Interment was at the Wacousta Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice of Clinton County.

 

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Duane Byron

 

   Duane “Papa” Byron, 60, of Eaton Rapids died Nov. 15, 1997, in Eaton Rapids.

   Mr. Byron was born Dec. 12, 1937, in Eaton Rapids, the son of Eugene and Eula (Elston) Byron.  He was a member of Eaton Rapids American Legion Post #1283.

   He is survived by his wife, Verna; one daughter, Sherry (Jeff) Crawford of Eaton Rapids; two sons, Mark of Arizona and Glen Byron of Eaton Rapids; seven grandchildren; a great-granddaughter; brother, Jim (Joyce) of Eaton Rapids; four sisters, Rosie (Glen) Love, Ivagene (Wallace) Peters, and Rena (Bob) Gillett, all of Eaton Rapids, and Alberta VanAtter of Onondaga; and several nieces and nephews.

   He is preceded in death by Tammy Camp and one granddaughter, Coty Byron.

   Services were Nov. 19 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Stephen    Klink   officiating.    Interment   was   in

 

 

 

Oakwood Cemetery, Hamlin Township, with military honors presented by American Legion Post #1283.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

 

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Emma A. Byron

 

   Emma Ardella Byron, 64, of Eaton Rapids died Jan. 14, 1997, in Lansing.

   Mrs. Byron was born June 16, 1932, in Ann Arbor, the daughter of Floyd and Genevieve (Thuma) Kikendall.  She had been a nurse’s aide at the Eaton Rapids Community Hospital.

   She is survived by one daughter, Susan Putman of Eaton Rapids; four sons, Richard, Floyd (Peggy), and Raymond, all of Eaton Rapids, and Michael (Teresa) of Dimondale; her father, Allen Eugene “Jake” Byron of Eaton Rapids; eight grandchildren, James and Christopher Putman, Floyd Jr. and Lucinda Byron, Corey and Lacey Byron, Raymond Jr. and Rachelle Byron.

   Services were Jan. 17 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with Pastor Stephen Klink officiating.  Interment was in the Oakwood Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

 

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Jake Byron

 

   Jake Byron, 67, died March 18, 1997, in Eaton Rapids.

   Mr. Byron was born Aug. 6, 1929, in Dimondale, the son of Eugene and Eula (Elston) Byron.  He had been formerly employed with Allied and Mobil Oil and was in the construction business, specializing in building pole barns.  In later years, he farmed his own land.

   He is survived by one daughter, Susan Anne Putman of Eaton Rapids; four sons, Richard, Floyd (Peggy), and Raymond, all of Eaton Rapids, and Michael (Teresa) of Dimondale; eight grandchildren, James and Christopher Putman, Floyd Jr. and Lucinda Byron, Corey and Lacey Byron, and Raymond Jr. and Rachelle Byron; four sisters, Ivagene (Wallace) Peters, Rena (Bob) Gillett, Rosie (Glen) Love, all of Eaton Rapids, and Alberta VanAtter of Onondaga; and two brothers, Jim (Joyce) of Eaton Rapids and Duane (Verna) of Arizona.

   Services were March 21 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, with Pastor Stephen Klink officiating.  Interment was in the Oakwood Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

 

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Evelyn A. Carlson

 

   Evelyn Alice Carlson, 79, of Irons, formerly of Muskegon, died Feb. 27, 1997, at Tendercare in Traverse City.

   Mrs. Carlson was born Oct. 23, 1917, in Cleveland Township, the daughter of Benjamin and Frances “Fannie” (Bartunek) Wilsey.  She married Carl Carlson May 28, 1939, in Traverse City, and lived in Suttons Bay for many years before moving to Muskegon, where she was employed at a greenhouse.  She and Carl moved to Irons in 1977.

   She is survived by three daughters, Betty (Jim) Risden of Wellston, Charlotte “Jo” (John) Suzor of Hudson, Fla., and Bonnie (James) Wahr of Irons; one son, Charles (Barbara) of Muskegon; 13 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren; three sisters, Beulah Thayer, Jean (Fred) Newman, and Dorothy (George) Rohde, all of Traverse City; two brothers, Ben Wilsey of South Haven and C. Jesse (Lois) Smith of Charlotte; and many nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Raymond and Leonard Wilsey; and three sisters, Eleanor Revold, Marie Witte, and Helen “June” Morton.

   Services were March 1 at the Martinson Funeral Home, Suttons Bay, with the Rev. John Tupper officiating.  Interment will be in the Maple Grove Cemetery, Keswick.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Little Mary’s Hospitality House, Wellston, or the charity of one’s choice.

 

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Jewell E. Carter

 

   Jewell Eileen Carter, 76, of Shady Cove, Ore., formerly of Charlotte died March 26, 1997.

   Mrs. Carter was born July 31, 1920, in Pocahontas, Ark., the daughter of Marion and Molly (Johnson) Friar.

   She is survived by three sons, James Jr. (Betty) of VanBuren, Ark., Clayton (Robbie) of Fairport Harbor, Ohio, and Ronald of Medford, Ore.; three daughters, Monica (Frank) Corso of Wausau, Fla., Sandra (Jess) Brite of Shady Cove, Ore., and Margo (Robert) Setnor of Morro Bay, Calif.; and one sister, Lenore Merrick of Battle Creek.

   Graveside services were March 29 at the Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte, with Pastor Mark Woodbury officiating.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

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John T. Carter

 

   John T. Carter, 53, of Charlotte died Dec. 14, 1997.

   Mr. Carter was born Feb. 27, 1944, in Clarion, Penn., the son of John and Betty (Smith) Carter.  He was a day specialist in the forming department at Owens-Illinois and a member of the Charlotte Country Club.

   He is survived by two daughters, Rhonda (Ron) Burl of Holt and Connie (John) Strauss of Mt. Prospect, Ill.; one brother, Randall Reddinger; one sister, Brenda Jane Fuller both of Clarion; and two grandchildren.

   Services were Dec. 17 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Pastor Mark Booth officiating.  Interment was at Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

 

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Virgil R. Carter

 

   Virgil R. Carter, 57, of Flint, formerly of Charlotte, died June 20, 1997, at Genesys Health Park, Flint, after a lengthy illness.

   Mr. Carter was born May 30, 1940, in Charlotte, the son of Harold and Irene (Tyler) Carter.  He had been a longtime resident of Boone and Ellsworth, Iowa, returning to Michigan where he had lived in Lansing a short time and had been a Flint resident for one year.  He was a truck driver and construction worker, retiring about one year ago due to ill health.

   He is survived by his wife, Patricia; two daughters, Colleen (Bruce) Fisher of Nashville and Rae Jane (Frank) Cortright of Olivet; four step daughters, Linda (Robert) Mason of Midland, Cyndy Anderson of Flint, Donna (Darold) O’Conner of Boone, Iowa, and Lawana Egland of Ellsworth, Iowa; two step sons, Jon (Jackie) Laube of Williams, Iowa, and David Laube of Ellsworth; 20 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; his mother, Irene Whitaker of Charlotte; two sisters, Jaquelyn (David) Ames and Connie (Herb) Ames both of Charlotte; and three brothers, Steve (Diane) Whitaker of Bellevue, Rod (Vicki) Whitaker of Charlotte, and Dan (Michelle) Whitaker of Potterville.

   Graveside services were June 24 at the Center Eaton Cemetery, Charlotte, with the Rev. Michael Fuller officiating.  Arrangements were made by Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

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Thelma M. Cash

 

   Thelma M. Cash, 79, of Battle Creek, formerly of Olivet died Feb. 21, 1997, at the Mercy Pavilion, Battle Creek, after a long illness.

   Mrs. Cash was born in Midland and was a long time resident of Battle Creek, having also lived in Olivet and Colorado for a number of years.  She was a 1935 graduate of Charlotte High School and a 1939 graduate of Western Michigan University.  She was a retired school teacher, having taught in West Branch, Reading, and Battle Creek.  she was a member of St. Philip Catholic Church, Battle Creek.

   She is survived by her husband of 53 years, William; two sons, Steve of Paw Paw, and Thomas of Battle Creek; one daughter, Mary Ann Miller of Eaton Rapids; one grandson, Joseph Miller; and one sister, Mary Myers of Jackson.

   She was preceded in death by one son, John Cash in 1991, and two brothers.

   Cremation has taken place.

   Memorial services were Feb. 26 at St. Philip Catholic Church with the Rev. Fr. William Fitzgerald officiating.  Inurnment will be in the Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.  Arrangements were made by the Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

 

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William L. Cash

 

   William L. Cash, 77, of Battle Creek, formerly of Olivet, died Oct. 19, 1997 at the Battle Creek Health System, Community Site after an extended illness.

   Mr. Cash was born Jan. 24, 1920 in Battle Creek.  He had been a lifelong area resident having lived in Battle Creek and also Olivet, with the exception of an 11 year period that he had lived in Colorado.  Mr. Cash was a graduate of Olivet High School and he attended Argubright Business College in Battle Creek.  He had worked for Clark Equipment Co., Battle Creek from where he retired in 1982 after 30 total years of service.  He was a member of the Charlotte Lions Club and had served in the U.S. Army during World War II.

   He is survived by one daughter, Mary Ann Miller of Eaton Rapids; two sons, Stephen Cash and Thomas Cash of Battle Creek; and one grandson.

   He is preceded in death by his wife, Thelma (Burns) Cash; and son, John Charles Cash.

   Cremation has taken place.  Services were held Oct. 23 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Pastor Bob Homan officiating.  Interment of cremains in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice Group of one’s choice.

 

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Noma A. Catlin

 

   Noma A. Catlin, 89, of Bonita Springs, Fla., died April 30, 1997, in Naples, Fla.

   Mrs. Catlin was born March 27, 1908, in Barryton, the daughter of Arthur and Zepha (Williams) Simon.

   She is survived by one daughter, Zeda Welch of Naples, Fla.; one son, Theo (Jennine) Catlin of Ionia; eight grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and one sister, Frances (Edwin) Carpenter of Potterville.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Forrest, and two sisters, Segrid Vedder-King and Gena Simon.

   Services were May 6 at the Barker-Leik Funeral Home, Mulliken, with John Piercefield officiating.  Interment was in the Meadowbrook Cemetery.

 

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Gertrude Chamberlain

 

   Gertrude Chamberlain, 97, of Dimondale died May 10, 1997.

   Mrs. Chamberlain was born March 21, 1900, in Bessemer, the daughter of Richard and Elizabeth Bawden.  She was employed by Charlotte Public Schools as an accompanist for the high school chorus under the direction of Darrell Cook and was the original organist for the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.  She had been active in musical circles all her life.  She was a former teacher in Hesperia and Muskegon Heights, life member of Charlotte O.E.S. #218, Past Matron of Hastings O.E.S. #7, member of the First Congregational Church of Charlotte and its Mary Martha Circle, and the Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel.

   She is survived by four daughters, Beverly (Gordon) Meeder of Potterville, Joyce (Gary) Shirkey of Springfield, Mo., Sue (James) Huffman of Bentonville, Ark., and Ruth Ann Sigler of Novi; one son, Richard of Haslett; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and one sister, Florence Marble of Hastings.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Lyman.

   Services were May 14 at the First Congregational Church, Charlotte, with the Rev. William Colson and the Rev. Peter Brenner officiating.  Interment was in the Dimondale Cemetery.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

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Donald D. Chapman

 

   Donald D. Chapman, 71, of Eaton Rapids died Dec. 17, 1996, in Eaton Rapids.

   Mr. Chapman was born July 31, 1925, in Battle Creek, the son of Howard and Arietta (Wood) Chapman.  He served in the 1st Marine Division 736 Tank Battalion during World War II, from 1943-1946 at the Peleluie and Okinawa Campaigns.  He was also a member of the VFW Post #565 in Battle Creek and past member of the VFW Post #1283 in Eaton Rapids and was an accomplished musician.

   He is survived by his wife, Dora; a daughter, Annette Cooper of Eaton Rapids; a son, Stephen Chapman of Eaton Rapids; mother, Arletta Chapman of Battle Creek; grandson, William Gabriel Cooper of Lansing; step-grandchildren; Carrie, Jamie, and Andy; a brother, Carlton (Sandy) Chapman of Battle Creek; a sister-in-law, Norma Chapman of Battle Creek; a niece and 2 nephews, Deb, Arnold, and Kevin Chapman, all of Battle Creek.

   He was preceded in death by his father, Howard, and brother, Roland.  Services were Dec. 21 at the Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.

 

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Laurence D. Chapman

 

   Laurence D. Chapman, 66, of East Leroy died July 3, 1997, in his home.

   Mr. Chapman was born Jan. 13, 1931, in Isabella County to Milo and Retha Mac Chapman.  He was retired after working 28 years for the Federal Aviation Administration at Kellogg Airfield, worked for a short time at Wilcox-Gay in Charlotte, and he served two years in the US Army Signal Corps.

   He is survived by his wife, Evelyn (formerly of Charlotte); three daughters, Debra Collins of Grand Rapids, Cherie Betke of Battle Creek, and Denise Phillips of Homer; son, Marvin Chapman of Battle Creek; sisters, Myrna Eargood of Lansing, and Clara Chapman of Rosebush; brother, Willis Chapman of Mount Pleasant; 8 grandchildren; mother and father-in-law, Ruth and

 

 

 

Alton Olmstead of Charlotte.  He is preceded in death by his parents, Milo and Retha Chapman; sister, Shirley Kinsell; and brother, Roger.

   Services were July 9 at the Spencer Funeral Home in Athens.

 

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Francis E. Charles

 

   Francis E. “Dude” Charles, 83, of Eaton Rapids died Aug. 9, 1997, at his residence.

   Mr. Charles was born April 24, 1914, in Logansport, Ind., the son of Harry and Josephine (Houck) Charles.  Dude was a retired Sales Representative for the Gerber Baby Food Co. retiring in 1976 with 34 years of service.  He continued an additional 18 years with Independent Food Brokers.  Mr. Charles was a member of the St. Peter Catholic Church of Eaton Rapids.

   He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Charlotte; daughter, Patricia (Thomas) Swan of Duck Lake; 2 grandchildren; 3 great-grandsons; a brother, Walter Charles of Lenexa, Kansas; and numerous nieces and nephews.

   He is preceded in death by 3 brothers, Robert, Harry, and George Charles; and 2 sisters, Regina Charles and Mary Jo Romack.

   Burial Mass was Aug. 12 at St. Peter Church, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Fr. Ben Constantine.

 

 

 

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice, P.O. Box 636, Charlotte, Mich.  48813.

 

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Eleanor (Stevens) Chuck

 

   Eleanor Stevens Chuck, 80, of Houston, Texas, formerly of Olivet, Marshall, and Eaton Rapids, died Nov. 30, 1997, at her home.

   Mrs. Chuck was born Dec. 12, 1916, in Eaton County, the daughter of Ray and Susan (Grant) Stevens.  She was a graduate of Western Michigan State Teachers’ College and had taught school in Olivet, Marshall, and Eaton Rapids.  She went to Venezuela in 1945 to teach in the American schools for the oil companies in 1949.

   They were married in 1954 and lived in Venezuela until 1974, when Frank was transferred to Houston by Exxon Oil Co.

   She is survived by her husband, Frank; one nephew, Dennis Stevens of Charlotte; and one sister-in-law, Katherine Stevens of Charlotte.

   Services were held at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Houston, Dec. 3, and graveside services were Dec. 5 in East Pleasant Place, Iowa. 

   Memorial contributions may be made to St. Michael’s Catholic School, 1801 Sage Road, Houston, Texas 77056.

 

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Bernice M. Church

 

   Bernice M. Church, 90, of Olivet died Sept. 24, 1997, at Hayes Green Beach Hospital in Charlotte where she was taken after being stricken at home.

   Mrs. Church was born in Remus, the daughter of Parm and Lena (Roop) Whitcomb and had been an Olivet resident since 1935.  She attended Charlotte High School, had taken a merchandising course in Lansing, where she later worked, and was a buyer for the J.W. Knapp Co. in Lansing.  After she married Lawrence Church in 1929, she worked with him in the heating business in Alma.  After moving to Olivet, she worked at the Wilcox-Gay Co. in Charlotte until the early 1940s when she and her husband started Premier Heating and Plumbing in Olivet.  They later moved the business to Charlotte.  In the early 1950s, they owned and operated the Econowash Laundry in Olivet, which was sold in 1969.

   She was a member of the Olivet Congregational Church United Church of Christ and its Amy Storr-Emma Jo Circle, and served as a deaconess, chairperson of the trustees for four years, and chairman of the finance committee, and the Women’s Fellowship.  She had currently served on the church council and the Olivet City Council for 20 years, had been a member of the Olivet Chamber of commerce, and the Olivet College Women’s Board, where she had served as finance chairperson.  She was also a member of the VFW Post #2406 Auxiliary Maple City Chapter in Charlotte.

   She is survived by one daughter, Patricia Buttrick of Olivet; one son-in-law, Arlie Dimond of Charlotte; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence in 1966; one daughter, Jean Dimond in 1980; one brother, William Whitcomb in 1966; and two grandsons, Kirk Buttrick and Robert Buttrick.

   Services were Sept. 27 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Clark Hock officiating.  Interment was in the Oakridge Cemetery, Marshall.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Olivet Congregational Church or Olivet college Women’s Board.

 

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Leland C. Colburn

 

   Leland Clarence Colburn, 89, of Bellevue died Feb. 23, 1997.

   Mr. Colburn was born May 6, 1907, in Quaker City, Ohio, the son of Albert and Emma (Hall) Colburn.  He had been a gauge repairman for General Motors for 28 years before retiring in 1974.  He was a member of Wacousta #359 F&AM, the Olivet-Bellevue Chapter O.E.S., and UAW #652.  He was a 32nd-degree Mason in Valley of Cambridge, Ohio, and attended the First Bellevue Baptist Church.

   He is survived by his wife, Barbara; three sons, James (Barbara) of Eagle, Milton of East Lansing, and Frederick (Mary) of Potterville; three daughters, Elma “Rusti” (Bill) Peters of Charlotte, Mabel “Mae” (Bob) Martin of Lansing, and Betty Bush of Lansing; 20 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; three stepsons, Eric Olmstead of Flint and Brad and Kurt Olmstead, both of Bellevue; one stepdaughter, Tamera Ford of Bellevue; 12 step-grandchildren; three step-great-grandchildren; and one brother-in-law, Perry Cassella of Weirton, W.V.

   He was preceded in death by his first wife of 60 years, Edith in 1988; two sons, Albert in 1940 and Robert in 1985; and one daughter, Mary in 1930.

   Services were Feb. 26 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Donald Francis and Wacousta Lodge #359 officiating.  Interment will be in the Friends Cemetery, Quaker City, Ohio.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Wacousta Masonic Lodge #359.

 

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Geraldine A. Cole

 

   Geraldine A. Cole, 93, went to be with the Lord on July 7, 1997.

   Mrs. Cole was born June 12, 1904 in Hillsdale County, the daughter of Wallace and Hattie (Bump) Petrie.

   She is survived by 2 sons and 3 daughters, Louise Potter of Jackson, Albert (Marion) Cole of Eaton Rapids, Thelma Cozart of Leslie, Joan (Dale) Doxtader of Holt, and Frank Lynn Cole of Cedar Springs; 25 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; 6 great-great-grandchildren; brother, Howard Petrie of Jonesville; sister, Bertha Wolever of Orleans; and several nieces and nephews.

   She is preceded in death by her husband, Wayne F. Cole; brother; 3 sisters; and 3 grandchildren.

   Services were on July 11 at the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids, with Rev. Edward Lindsley officiating.

 

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Loma Colombo

 

   Loma Colombo, 76, of Charlotte died Dec. 18, 1996.

   Ms. Colombo was born Feb. 15, 1920 in Rushing, Arizona, the daughter of William and Elosia (Harper) Hinesley.  She served with the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps during World War II.  She married Fred Leonard Colombo Sept. 25, 1943, in Joliet, Illinois.  She was active in the Catholic Church for many years.

   She is survived by her husband, Fred; four daughters, Margaret (Jeff) Bates of Fayetteville, Arizona, Diane (Michael) Morey of Dimondale, Elizabeth (David) Mansfield of Dewitt, and Marilyn Jorgensen of Toledo, Ohio; a son, John (Becky) Colombo of Charlotte; 6 grandchildren, Sara, Amber, and Loma Jean (Trixie) Colombo, Gregory and Steven Morey, and Jeffrey Bates; a brother, Olin (Arvilla) Hinesley of Tulsa, Oklahoma; and a sister, Robbie Cassell of Tulsa, Oklahoma.

   She was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Amy.

   Services were Dec. 21 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Charlotte, with the Father Matthew Fedewa officiating.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.

 

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Scott Eugene Comstock

 

   Scott Eugene Comstock, 64, of Charlotte died Aug. 11, 1997.

   Mr. Comstock was born Sept. 29, 1932, in Blanchard, the son of Archie P. and Elnor G. (Swarhout) Comstock.  He was a truck driver for R. A. Harkness.

   He is survived by his wife, Janette K. Comstock; sons, Jason S. Comstock, and Eugene S. Comstock of Blanchard; daughters, Kimberly A. (Randall) Hansen of Vestaburg, Sandra K. (Charles Sr.) Washburn; and 3 grandchildren.

   He is preceded in death by his daughter, Vickie L. Comstock.

   Services were Aug. 14 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with Rev. Arthur Salisbury officiating.  Interment was in Danby Township Cemetery.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice.

 

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Marie L. Conroy

 

   Marie L. (Hiar) Conroy, 71, of Sunfield, died Oct. 28, 1997, at her home following a long illness.

   Mrs. Conroy was born Aug. 16, 1926, in Lake City, a daughter of Henry and Grace (Dingess) Kill.  She was a former owner of a foster care home in Grand Ledge, and manager of Portland Apartments.  She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Portland.

   She is survived by one son, Rich (Ruth) Hiar of Sunfield, one stepson, Bud (Vi) Hiar of Grand Ledge; 6 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; 3 step-great-grandchildren; 3 step-great-great-grandchildren; two sisters, Vi (Bud) Hiar of Grand Ledge and Timmer Chartrand of Portland; one brother, John (Shirley) Kill of Charlotte; and numerous nieces and nephews.

   Services were Nov. 1 at Danby Cemetery, with the Rev. Glenn E. Perry officiating.  Arrangements were made by Barker-Leik Funeral Home, Mulliken.

 

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Hazel A. Cook

 

   Hazel Alice Cook, 76, of Charlotte died April 22, 1997.

   Mrs. Cook was born Aug. 15, 1920, in Grand Township, the daughter of Russell and Clara (Woods) Bush.  She married Warren Cook Nov. 18, 1942, in Providence, R.I.  She was a renaissance woman, imparting wisdom and strength of others, a caring person who helped many.  She was a poet, culinary artist, played the guitar and was co-operator of the Cook Family Farm.  She was a member of the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church.

   She is survived by her husband, Warren; three sons, Warren Jr. (Eugenie “Coco”) of Coldwater, Randy of Charlotte and Rodney (Carol) of Olympia, Wash.; two daughters, Denise (Benjamin) Bartlett of Chatham and Cynthia of Grand Ledge; six grandchildren; one great-grandchild; three brothers, Basil Bush of Buckley, Russell Jr. “Pete” of Lapeer and Ted of Carona Del Mar, Calif.; four sisters, Ruth Cooper of Buckley, Dorothy Komrska of Woodstock, Ill., Marcia Flansburg of Grawn and Betty Cooper of Buckley.

   Services were April 26 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Jim Troust officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Charlotte Public Library.

 

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Nancy A. Cook

 

   Nancy A. Cook, 63, of Charlotte died April 26, 1997, at Hayes Green Beach Hospital after an extended illness.

   Mrs. Cook was born in Newark, Ohio, the daughter of Roe and Frances (Holler) Francis and had been a Charlotte resident since 1955 coming from Muskegon.  She had been an employee of Charlotte Public Schools retiring in 1996 after 25 years of service.  She was a member of the First Congregational Church, Charlotte, and it’s choir and bell choir and was a member and Past Worthy Matron of Maple City Chapter #218 O.E.S.

   She is survived by four children, Charles (Kathleen) Cook of Charlotte, Cathy (fiancé, Jerry Harton) Cook of Charlotte, James (Lisa) Cook of Nashville and William (Julie) Cook of Orlando, Fla.; seven grandchildren; and one sister, Mary Jane Giblin of Giblin Newark, Ohio.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Wade, in 1974; and two brothers, James and Albert Francis.

   Services were April 30 at the First Congregational Church, Charlotte, with the Rev. Peter R. K. Brenner and the Rev. Z. William Colson officiating.  Interment was in the Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.  Arrangements were made by the Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

 

 

 

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Red Cross for Eaton County or one can be a blood donor in memory of Nancy Cook.

 

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Marion S. Corey

 

   Marion Sidney Corey, 75, of Vermontville died Aug. 27, 1997.

   Mr. Corey was born Jan. 24, 1922, in Vermontville, the son of Marion C. and Olive L. (Shetenhelm) Corey.  He was a 1939 graduate of Vermontville High School and he served in the U.S. Army during WWII.  Mr. Corey was a tool and die maker for Aluminum Extrusions in Charlotte until his retirement.  He was a member of the American Legion Post #222 of Vermontville.

   He is survived by his wife, Flossie; son, Roger of Vermontville; sister, M. Mary Weiss of Ft. Collins, Colorado.

   Services were Aug. 30 at the First Congregational Church in Vermontville, with the Rev. David Johnston officiating.  Interment was in Woodlawn Cemetery.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Maple Valley Scholarship Fund or the Vermontville Fire Department.

 

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Donald B. Courtright

 

   Donald Bruce Courtright, 88, died April 21, 1997.

   Mr. Courtright was born Aug. 20, 1910, in Charlotte, the son of Edwin and Nettie (Miller) Courtright.  He had worked as a salesman selling golf course mowing equipment until his retirement in 1978.  He was affiliated with the Charlotte Country Club for 50 years, bowled in the Monday Night Char Lanes Classic League, and spent winters in Bradenton, Fla.

   He is survived by his wife, Margaret; one daughter, Joyce (David) Johnson of Okemos; one son, John Courtright of Lansing; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by seven sisters and two brothers.

   Memorial services will be Tuesday, April 29, at 3 p.m., at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Peter Brenner officiating.  There will be visitation at the funeral home one hour before the service.

 

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Allen W. Cox

 

   Allen W. Cox, 86, of Charlotte died Dec. 21, 1996, in Charlotte.

   Mr. Cox was born in Lee Township, Calhoun County, Nov. 28, 1910, the son of Francis Marion and Marjorie (Willis) Cox.  He was a Charlotte High School graduate and, during his senior year in 1929, attended an organizational meeting and made the motion to adopt the charter for FFA in Michigan.  He graduated from Michigan State College in 1933 with a degree in Agriculture Education and taught agriculture in Evart and Bellevue.  He later worked for the Farm Security Administration and sold life insurance for Sun Life of Canada.  He was associated with United Methodist Men, the American Red Cross blood donor program, Charlotte Masonic Lodge #120 (Mason of the Year 1974), Eaton County Shrine Club and Saladin Temple, Order of Eastern Star (Past Patron of Maple City Chapter #218), Charlotte Commandery #37, Knights Templar (Sir Knight in 1963), Eaton County Cancer Society, CHS Alumni Association, March of Dimes, Muscular Dystrophy Society, and Michigan State Bowling Association.  The activity in which he participated for the longest time was Lion’s Club.  He joined in Bellevue in 1936 and transferred to Charlotte in 1943.  In July 1991, he was honored for 48 years of perfect attendance and sponsoring 87 new members.  On March 1, 1980, he was honored with an appreciation banquet and an official proclamation of “Al Cox Day” in Charlotte to commemorate his many years of service to the community.

   He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Dorothy (Cavanaugh), whom he married in 1939; one daughter, Diane (Richard) Larder of Livermore, Calif.; three grandchildren, Debra Larder of West Bend, Wis., Richard Larder of San Francisco, Calif., and Jennifer Larder of Stockton, Calif.

   He was preceded in death by his first wife, Lewellyn of Sears, in 1938, and one sister, Virginia Marsh of Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Charlotte Lions Club service projects or Lawrence Avenue UMC.

   Pray Funeral Home handled arrangements.

 

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Dorris Elnora Cox

 

   Dorris Elnora Cox, 85, of Charlotte died Aug. 25, 1997.

   Mrs. Cox was born Feb. 25, 1912 in Walworth County, Ill., the daughter of Elmer B. and Nora M. (Kraemer) Cramer.  She was a linotype operator and proofreader at McGrath DeFoe for 40 years.  She was a member of the First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, Charlotte.

   She is survived by her husband, William M.; sister-in-law, Audrey Sexmith; niece, Susan (Dennis) Emmons both of North Muskegon; great nieces, Kimberly (Ted) Brayton of Massachusetts; and Julie Emmons of Cincinnati, Ohio; great-great nephew, Benjamin Brayton.

   Services were Aug. 28 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Z. William Colson officiating.  Interment was in Maple Knoll Cemetery, Charlotte.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Hayes Green Beach Hospital or the First Congregational Church.

 

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Helen L. Crilly

 

   Helen Louise Crilly, 71, of Olivet died June 21, 1997, at the Eaton County Medical Care Facility, Charlotte, after a short illness.

   Mrs. Crilly was born in Walton Township, Eaton County, the daughter of Claud and Letha (Brandt) Rundle and had been a lifelong resident of Walton Township.  She was a 1944 graduate of Olivet High School, had worked for 30 years as bookkeeper at Charlotte Auto Parts, and previously worked for the former Campbell’s Grocery in Olivet.

   She is survived by two sisters, Doris (Hank) Masters of Olivet and Georgia Thomas of Marshall; one brother, Ellet Rundle of LaGrange, Ga.; and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth, on March 17, 1990.

   Services were June 25 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Clark Hock officiating.  Interment was in the Bosworth Cemetery, Olivet.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton County Medical Care Facility.

 

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Marilyn K. Crisp

 

   Marilyn K. Crisp, 44, of Potterville died April 13, 1997, at her residence following a short illness.

   Mrs. Crisp was born Oct. 1, 1952, in Battle Creek.  She was employed as a closing clerk for Consolidated Freightways for several years.

   She is survived by her husband of 15 years, James; one daughter, Brenda Buchko of Potterville; one grandson, Brandy Shuten of Potterville; her mother, Nancy Millard; her father, Robert Buroker; two brothers, Robert Buroker and Randall (Sandi) Buroker all of Battle Creek; and one niece, Bailey Buroker of Battle Creek.

   She was preceded in death by her sister, Carolyn Buroker in 1970.

   Services were April 15 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Steven Bohus officiating.  Interment was in the Benton Township Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

 

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Audra Marie Crocker

 

   Audra Marie Crocker, 87, of Charlotte died May 19, 1997.

   Mrs. Crocker was born Dec. 19, 1909, in Charlotte, the daughter of Merten and Arminta (Treadwell) Rulison.  She had worked as a caterer for Gladieo Catering Co. until her retirement in 1967, and was affiliated with the Rebekah Lodge #516 in Warren.

   She is survived by three nieces, Letha (Neil) Springer of Jackson, Shirley Colestock of Memphis, Tenn., and Mary Jean (Robert) Kiplinger of Charlotte; one nephew, Donald (Phyllis) Rulison of Charlotte; and several great nieces and nephews.

   Services were May 21 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Clark Hock officiating.  Interment was in the Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Rebekah Lodge #68.

 

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Richard R. Curtis

 

   Richard R. “Dick” Curtis, 76, of Eaton Rapids died Sept. 4, 1997, unexpectedly at home.

   Mr. Sulpher was born Dec. 4, 1920, in Grand Rapids.  He was employed with Oldsmobile as a tool maker for the past 44 years and was an avid outdoorsman.

   He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Eleanore; two daughters, Jayne (Bill) Krawczynski of Harrison and Barbara (Alan) Herman of Lansing; two sons, Dennis (Neva) Sulpher and Jack D. (Betty Jo) Sulpher all of Eaton Rapids; 8 grandchildren; one brother, Tom Sulpher; two sisters, Margaret Knudsen of Berkley, and Grace Vander Vlucht of Detroit; and special niece and nephew, Autumn and Matthew Waterman.

   Services were Sept. 9 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the VFW National Home, the Eaton Rapids Marching Band, or the Crippled Children’s Fund.

 

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Talbert L. Curtis

 

   Talbert L. Curtis, 86, of Nashville died Sept. 4, 1997, at his home.

   Mr. Curtis was born June 18, 1909, in Kalamo Township, the son of Wilbur and Amie (Means) Curtis.  He was a dairy farmer all of his working years and during World War II he worked at Royal Coach in Hastings.  He was a member of the Vermontville Bible Church and the Gideons.  He and his wife wintered in Lake Wales, Fla. for 30 years and enjoyed traveling together.

   He is survived by his daughters, Geneva Knoll of Nashville and Elsie (Red) Stephenson of White Water, Colo.; son, Vernon (Shirley) Curtis of Nashville; 11 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-granddaughter.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Beulah Johnson.

 

 

 

 

   Services were Sept. 8 at the Vermontville Bible Church with the Rev. Dan Smith officiating.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Vermontville Bible Church or the Gideons.

 

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Hector G. Dandurand

 

   Hector G. Dandurand, 77, of Eaton Rapids died April 27, 1997 in Charlotte.

   Mr. Dandurand was born Nov. 9, 1919, in Kankakee, Ill., the son of Oliver and Georgiana (Marissette) Dandurand.  He retired from Dana Atlas Drop Forge in 1985 after 35 years of services and was a member of the Eaton Rapids American Legion Post #15.

   He is survived by his wife of 17 years, Rhea; two step-daughters, Connie (Robert) Erickson of Holt and Peggy (Scott DeBaun) Schnepp of Olivet; two stepsons, James Schnepp and Earl (Elaine) Schnepp all of Eaton Rapids; eight step-grandchildren, Robert Pierce, Lisa Smith, Michael Smith, Deven and Nicole DeBaun, James “Jake” Schnepp and Thomas and Sarah Schnepp.

   He was preceded in death by his first wife, Ethel.

   Services were April 30 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral   Home,   Eaton  Rapids,   with   the   Rev.

 

 

 

 

Bennett Constantine, Celebrant of St. Peter Church officiating.  Interment was in the Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

 

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Michael C. David

 

   Michael C. David, 49, of Charlotte died April 26, 1997 in St. Helen.

   Mr. David had lived in Charlotte since 1995.

   He is survived by his wife, Lynnette; three daughters, Shellie Fruk of St. Helen, and Cheri Holbrook and Michelle David both of Lansing; two sons, Michael Brown of St. Helen and Michael David II of Perry; seven grandchildren; four brothers, Charles David of Grand Rapids, Garth David of Charlotte, Larry Briggs of St. Helen and William Briggs of Gladwin; and one sister, Ruth Ann Duffy of St. Helen.

   A memorial services will be Friday, May 9, at 7 p.m. at the Lakeview Chapel, Park Lake.  Arrangements were made by Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home, West Branch.

 

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Robert H. Davis

 

   Robert H. Davis, 73, of Honolulu, Hawaii, formerly of Charlotte died March 3, 1997.

   Mr. Davis was a graduate of Charlotte High School.  He served in the U.S. Marine corps from 1943-45, was past commander of Charlotte VFW Post 2406, past president of the Charlotte Kiwanis Club, and a member of the Shriners and numerous other organizations.  He was the co-owner and operator of Davis & Sons Pontiac until moving to Hawaii to start a printing business in 1972.

   He is survived by his wife, Linda; one son, Ronald of Oceanview, Hawaii; one brother, Roger Davis of Charlotte; one sister, Barbara Patton of Olivet; one half brother, Larry King of Needmore; and two nephews, Ralph and Paul Davis both of Charlotte.

   A memorial service was held May 26, at the Charlotte VFW Post #4204.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the VFW and ear-marked for any of his affiliated organizations or the American Cancer Society.

 

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Robert C. Dean

 

   Robert C. Dean, 68, of Nashville died Sept. 29, 1997, at Pennock Hospital, Hastings.

   Mr. Dean was born in Kalamazoo the son of William and Evelyn (Wright) Dean.  He attended Nashville schools.  He was a tool and die setter for Lake Odessa Machine Products, retiring as foreman in 1992.  Other employment includes tireman for Crandell Trucking of Charlotte, the Cuyler Trucking of Nashville, and Tire Recapper of Lansing.  Mr. Dean was a member of the Barry County Antique Tractor Association.  He enjoyed fishing, designing and building metal objects, working in his workshop, and many other things.

   He is survived by his wife, Dorene; daughters, Marilyn (Glen) Wagner of Nashville, and Susan (Keith) Baker of Olivet; son, William R. (Nora) Dean of Nashville; and 6 grandchildren.

   He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Evelyn Dean.

   Services were Oct. 21 at the Maple Valley Chapel-Genther Funeral Home, Nashville, the Rev. Mark Woodbury officiating.  Cremation will follow.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Barry County Hospice.

 

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Sidney W. Dean

 

   Sidney W. Dean, 62, of Eaton Rapids died April 8, 1997.

   Mr. Dean was born Nov. 27, 1934, in Norwood, Mo., the son of Sidney and Zettie (DeVault) Dean.  He attended the Eaton Rapids Wesleyan Church and was formerly employed at Diamond Reo.  He was the owner and operator of Water Wonderland Landscaping Service in Eaton Rapids and served in the 101st Airborne.

   He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Connie; two daughters, Penny Sue Dean of New Hampshire and Catherine Dean of Olivet; one son, Troy Dean of Eaton Rapids; one granddaughter, Tara Dean; and one brother, Charles (Mary Ann) Gallagher.

   Services were April 12 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with Pastor Dennis Perkins officiating.  Interment was in the Oakwood Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

 

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Isabel E.J. DeFrates

 

   Isabel E. J. DeFrates, 78, of Charlotte died April 1, 1997.

   Mrs. DeFrates was born in Grand Junction, Colo., the daughter of Elwood and Hazel (Loveland) Kelly.  She was a lifelong resident of Charlotte and a member of the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church.

   She is survived by her children, David (Margaret) of Charlotte, Douglas “Duke” of W. Covina, Calif., Patricia (Mike) Humphrey of Tucson, Ariz., and Michael (Cheryl) of Charlotte; one stepson, Phillip (Renee) of Sugar Island; 13 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur, in 1992; one brother, Robert Kelly in 1954; and one sister, Eleanor Morgan in 1992.

   Memorial services are Tuesday, April 8, at 11 a.m., at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.  Interment will be in the Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.  Envelopes are available at the funeral home.

 

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Bertha C. “Katy” DeMott

 

   Bertha C. “Kary” DeMott, 71, of Bellevue died April 2, 1997, in Borgess Hospital, Kalamazoo.

   Mrs. DeMott was born Jan. 12, 1926, in Battle Creek, the daughter of Ralph and Mabel (Sayers) Lemon.  She worked for the U.S. Post Office in Bellevue for 20 years, retiring in 1989.  She married David DeMott on July 4, 1947, and moved to Bellevue.  She was a member and clerk of the First Baptist Church for 35 years, Sunday school teacher and Cherub Choir director.  She was active in the Historical Society, Cub Scouts, Blue Birds, Meal-On-Wheels and American Cancer Society Drive.

   She is survived by her husband, David; two sons, Dennis (Linda) of Charlotte and Terry (Sheila) of Reed City; three daughters, Cathy (Dennis) Bartlett and Nancy (Paul) Cipcic both of Bellevue, and Cheryl (Bobby) McNeal of San Diego, Calif.; 20 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

   Services were April 5 at the Bellevue First Baptist Church, with Pastor Donald Francis officiating.  Interment was in the Riverside Cemetery, Bellevue.  Arrangements were made by the Shaw Funeral Home, Lehman Chapel, Bellevue.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Bellevue First Baptist Church.

 

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Bonnie C. DePriest

 

   Bonnie Carrol DePriest, 57, of Charlotte died Dec. 30, 1996, as the result of an automobile accident.

   Mrs. DePriest was born Oct. 4, 1939, in Charlotte, the daughter of Ordail and Ruth (Mitchell) Heinze.  She worked in the office of Technology Resources as a Micro Technician for the State of Michigan.  She had been a member of the Potterville Church of the Nazarene since childhood.

   She is survived by her husband, Don; two daughters, Lynn (Doug) Dickinson and Terri (Juan) Suarez, both of Charlotte; son Thaddaeus Truman DePriest of Boynton Beach, Fla., six grandchildren, Sara Jo Tate, Michelle Lynn Dickinson, and Danielle Marie Dickinson, Zachariah Truman Suarez and Andres Carlos Suarez; four brothers, Arnold (Lou Ann) Heinze and Orville Heinze, both of Florida, and Francis (Veralee) Heinze and Richard (Anna) Heinze, both of Potterville; and sister, Rachel (Dick) Roan of DeTour.

   Services were Jan. 2 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with the Rev. Robert Coen officiating.  Interment was in Benton Township Cemetery in Potterville.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Potterville Church of the Nazarene.

 

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C. Kenneth Dow

 

   C. Kenneth Dow, 96, of Mulliken, died Aug. 19 at the Thornapple Manor, near Hastings.

   Mr. Dow was born Jan. 17, 1901, in Sunfield Township, the son of Clarence and Nellie (Doyle) Dow.  He was a lifetime area farmer who formerly held positions as Roxand Township treasurer, justice of the peace, school board member, and worked with the ASC.

   Mr. Dow took great pride in his sesquicentennial farm, and following his sons and grandchildren in their various sports.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Hildreth, two sons, Karl and Elwyn, two great-granddaughters, and his sister, Nelva Moore.

   Surviving Mr. Dow are two sons, Kendall (Ruah) Dow of Kalamazoo and Durwood (Ardyth) Dow of Mulliken; 14 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; three step great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

   Services were Saturday at Barker-Leik Funeral Home, Mulliken, with the Rev. Don Woolum of the Mulliken United Methodist Church officiating.

   Interment was in Meadowbrook Cemetery.

   Pallbearers were his grandsons.

 

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Freda L. Dowding

 

   Freda Lucille Dowding, 89, died Sept. 24, 1997.

   Mrs. Dowding was born Aug. 16, 1908, in Roseville, Ind., the daughter of Frank and Lottie (Schafer) Mohler.  Her family relocated near Baldwin in 1912 and she finished school at the Care Settlement, then moved to Eaton Rapids to work in the woolen mills.  She completed nurses training in the 1920s and began a nursing career in Eaton Rapids in the 1920s.  She also worked at Hayes Green Beach Hospital and the Eaton County Medical Care Facility, both in Charlotte.  She married Vern Dowding Aug. 31, 1928, and they lived and raised five children on their family farm at Narrow Lake.

   She was active in her church and instrumental in the founding of the Albion Assembly of God and Olivet’s Faith Assembly of God.

   She is survived by one daughter, Janice (Keith) Johnson of Taegu, Korea; three sons, Sam (Sally) of Raleigh, N.C., and Maurice “Skip” (Karen) and David (Rose), both of Springport; 16 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; three sisters, Flora Lee of Watervliet, Pearl Nichols of Grand Rapids, and Pauline Darling of Albion; four brothers, including twins Dallas Mohler of Parma and Douglas Mohler of Eaton Rapids, and Walt Mohler of Watervliet and Virgil Mohler of Kalkaska.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Vern in 1988 and her youngest son, Roger (an Alaskan bush pilot) in 1993.

   Services are today, Sunday, Sept. 28, at 2 p.m. at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. William Severance officiating.  Interment will be in the Clarence Center Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice.

 

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Mark L. Dowler

 

   Mark Lewis Dowler, 90, of Charlotte, formerly of Zephyrhills, Fla., died April 13, 1997, at Eaton Manor.

   Mr. Dowler was born Nov. 22, 1906, in Dimondale, the son of Hugh and Mary Dowler.  He married Hazle Clark on Oct. 10, 1948, in Dimondale.  He was a longtime resident of the Charlotte area before retiring to Zephyrhills, Fla.  He worked as a crane operator and a farmer on his own farm.

   He is survived by two stepsons, Ronald “Dick” (Cherie) Clark of Newcastle, Wyo., and Jock “Bucky” (Barbara) Clark of Cincinnati, Ohio; nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Hazle in 1996; one stepson, Donald Clark II; and two sisters, Ruth and Helen.

   Graveside services were April 18 at the Dimondale Cemetery, with his grandson, Donald Morey officiating.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

 

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Alyce Christine Dowling

 

   Alyce Christine Dowling, 44, of Springport died Sept. 16, 1997.

   Mrs. Dowling was born Sept. 22, 1952, in Dodgeville, Wisc., the daughter of Gerald L. and Delva B. (Christianson) Harris.

   She attended the university of Wisconsin, Stout, in Menomonie, Wisc.

   Mrs. Dowling married Richard Cornell Dowling on May 27, 1972.  She was a life skills teacher for 19 years at Portland Middle School.  She sponsored many activities within the middle school system, including Gourmet Club, Baby Think It Over, Foster Child for Portland Middle School, Spirit Shop, Recycling, Student Council, Student Advisory Committee, and the Seventh-Grade Quilt Project.  She also was a member of several programs and committees.

   Mrs. Dowling also was known as an avid supporter of the Portland Middle School Spring Fling, PMS community service projects, and the eighth-grade trip and sixth-grade winter camp.

   She is survived by her husband, Richard; daughter, Karin Christine; son, Thomas Cornell; mother, Delva Harris of Dodgeville, Wisc.; sister, Judith Mabel (Richard) Adams of Platteville, Wisc.; sister, Ann Marie (Richard) Covert of Naperville, Ill.; brother, Gene Harris of Dodgeville, Wisc.; brother, Allen M. (Carol) Harris of DeLand, Fla.; many nieces and nephews; sisters-in-law, Martha E. Dowling Hudak-Wall of New Castle, Del., and Barbara J. Dowling Kinsling of Oley, Pa.; stepmother-in-law, Ruth Dowling of Wilmington, Del.

   She was predeceased by her father, Gerald L. Harris; and her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Evelyn Cornell Dowling and Thomas Dowling III.

   Funeral services were Sept. 20 at Pray Funeral Home with the Rev. Peter R.K. Brenner and the Rev. Robert Doner officiating.  Private interment will be in Eastside Cemetery, Dodgeville, Wisc., on Monday, Sept. 22.  Memorial donations may be made to American Cancer Society, Eaton Community Hospice, or the Alyce Harris-Dowling Scholarship Fund.

 

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Edna L. Downer

 

   Edna L. Downer, 85, formerly of Northville, died Jan. 17, 1997, in Charlotte.

   Mrs. Downer was born Aug. 12, 1911, in Ovid, the daughter of Anthony and Lucy (Morse) Jorae.  She was a 1927 graduate of Ovid High School and completed County Normal School in Ypsilanti.  She taught school in Chelsea, Manchester, and the Wayne County rural schools.  She married Gael Downer.  She was a member of Northville United Methodist Church.

   She is survived by two daughters, Jean Knauff of Charlotte and Ann Muir of Kingston, Ontario, Canada; five grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and her sister-in-law, Mildred Jorae of Ovid.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Gael in 1988.

   There were no services.

   The family was served by Houghton Chapel-Osgood Funeral Homes, Ovid.

 

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Martha R. Eckels

 

   Martha R. Eckels, 90, of Olivet died Feb. 15, 1997.

   Mrs. Eckels was born May 28, 1906, in Cornucopia, Wis., the daughter of Albert and Mary (Borack) Roman.  She had moved from Maryland, resided in Olivet, then moved to Kiwanis Manor before moving to the Country Living Adult Foster Care Home, Olivet.  She was a member of the Episcopal Church in Elkton, Md., and had been a volunteer for the American Red Cross for several years.

   She is survived by one daughter, Bonnie (Lynnwood) Bracy of Charlotte; three grandchildren, Christopher (Christina) Forsyth of Wayne, Amy Forsyth and Faron Bracy both of Charlotte; five great-grandchildren, Chase, Chane, Cale, Lynnzie, and Mikey; one brother, Maxwell Roman of Virginia; and several nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Louis.

   Services were Feb. 21 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with Pastor Scott Brood officiating.  Interment was in the West Carmel Cemetery, Eaton County.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

 

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Orville L. Eishen

 

   Orville L. Eishen, 90, of Olivet died Nov. 9, 1997.

   Mr. Eishen was born Aug. 15, 1907 in Miller City, Ohio, the son of John Joseph and Addie (Gettys) Eishen.  He married Minnie Mae Sharp on Dec. 29, 1927.  He was a farmer on his own farm, drove a school bus, and was a drivers education instructor for the Olivet Schools. He was a member of Lee Center United Methodist Church.  Mr. Eishen was a Walton Township Trustee and a volunteer for Meals on Wheels.

   He is survived by two sons, Duane (Genevieve) Eishen of Olivet and Leonard (Rosalie) Eishen of Sturgis; daughter, Gloria (Dale) Southward of Charlotte; 12 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; 13 great-great-grandchildren; sister, Dee (Agnes) Davidson; and several nieces and nephews.

   He is preceded in death by his wife, Minnie; brother, Oscar; and infant daughter, Annabelle.

   Services were Nov. 12 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Pastor Geri Litchfield officiating.  Interment was in Bosworth Cemetery, Eaton County.  Arrangements were by Pray Funeral Home.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Meals on Wheels or the Lee Center United Methodist Church.

 

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Wayne E. Eitniear

 

   Wayne E. Eitniear, 62, formerly of Charlotte died May 2, 1997, in Mecosta, of natural causes.

   Mr. Eitniear was born June 28, 1934, in Dimondale, the son of Murl and Flossie (Hart) Eitniear.  He served his country in the U.S. Army and was an active member of the VFW Post #6034 and the American Legion Post #42.  He retired from the Iron Workers Union in 1991.

   He is survived by his father, Murl, of Charlotte; two sons, Wayne and Brian both of Charlotte; three grandchildren; three brothers, Robert (Bobbie) of Dimondale, Ronald (Sue) of Olivet and Theodore (Joyce) of Eaton Rapids; two sisters, Shirley Gilbert of Lansing and Ann (Wayne) Boss of Delton.

   He was preceded in death by his mother, Flossie, and one brother-in-law, Henry Gilbert.

   Memorial services will be held at a later date.

 

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Katherine A. Elles

 

   Katherine Alexander Elles, 83, of Gun Lake, formerly of Charlotte, died July 22, 1997, at her home after a long illness.

   Mrs. Elles was born March 21, 1914, in Grand Rapids, the daughter of Lloyd and Melita (Carstens) Alexander.  She attended Grand Rapids schools and graduated from the University of Michigan.  Before her marriage, she was a social worker with Michigan Children’s Aid, specializing in infant adoption.  Mrs. Elles was a member St. John’s Episcopal Church in Charlotte and attended Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Hastings.  She was a volunteer for the American Red Cross and the American Cancer Society.

   She is survived by two daughters, Susan Mackie-Smith of Gun Lake and Joanne Elles of New Hampshire; two sons, Stephen and Edward, both of Gun Lake; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; one sister, Melita Furrell of Oklahoma and Belmont; one brother, James Alexander of East Grand Rapids; and several nieces and nephews.

   Services were July 25 at the Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Hastings, with the Rev. Charles McCabe officiating.

   Arrangements were made by the Avink Funeral Home Cremation Society of Michigan.

 

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Marion L. Elliston

 

   Marion L. Elliston, 87, of Nashville died June 8, 1997.

   Mrs. Elliston was born Oct. 28, 1909, the daughter of Charles Rudolph and Mary Elliston.  She attended Wybel Country School, Vermontville High School, and Nashville High School.  Mrs. Elliston worked at the Hastings J.C. Penney’s store for many years, as well as for many Nashville businesses.  She attended the Nashville United Methodist Church and McCallum United Brethern Church, Delton.  She was a member of the I GO-U-GO Birthday Club, Nashville.

   She is survived by two daughters, Joyce and Frances; one son, Jack; 12 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and one sister, Betty.

   She was preceded in death by her husbands, Francis and Lloyd; one granddaughter, Cinda; one great-grandson, Russell; one great-granddaughter, Jaimie; one brother, Harold; and two sisters, Vivian and Virginia.

   Services are June 11 at the Lakeview Cemetery, Nashville, with the Rev. Jerry Gallaway officiating.  Memorial contributions may be made to McCallum United Brethern Church.

 

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Frances Fairchild

 

   Frances Fairchild, 92, of Crystal Lake, Ill., died Nov. 24, 1997, at the Fountains of Crystal Lake.

   Mrs. Fairchild was born in Wolverine April 6, 1905, the daughter of Frank and Emma (Krueger) Miller.  She married Orlando Fairchild Dec. 20, 1935.

   She is survived by two daughters, Patricia (David) Manzel of Crystal Lake and Carol (Robert) Bunker of Charlotte; and three grandchildren, Kenneth (Lori) Manzel of Cedar Rapids, Kevin Manzel of Chicago, Ill., and Kimberly Bunker of Charlotte; and two step-grandchildren, Angela (Roger) Gilmore of Holt and Stacy Bunker of Potterville.

   She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Orlando in 1986, one brother, Ernest Miller, and one sister, Lena Ridenauer.

   Graveside services were Nov. 29 at the Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made in the family’s name to the Hospice of N.E. Illinois or Bethany Lutheran Church, Crystal Lake, Ill.

 

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Glenn C. Fetterman

 

   Glenn C. Fetterman, 88, of Charlotte died Aug. 16, 1997.

   Mr. Fetterman was born Dec. 11, 1908, in Roxand Township, the son of Arvis and Henrietta (Cramer) Fetterman.  He had been a machinist for the John Bean Co. for 30 years, retiring in 1973.  He had also been employed at the Charlotte Chair Co. from 1934-1944.  He was a member of the First Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, and a former member of the Bellevue Whirl-a-ways.

   He is survived by his wife, Lottie; two daughters, Ireta (Richard) Tate and Sandra (Jan) Skrip, both of Charlotte; eight grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by one son, Glenn LeRoy, in 1969.

   Funeral services were Aug. 19 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the First Congregational Church or American Cancer Society.

 

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Luella Finch

 

   Luella Finch, 79, of Eaton Rapids died Oct. 8, 1997, in Eaton Rapids.

   Mrs. Finch was born Oct. 20, 1917, in Springport, the daughter of Herbert Lee and Rosa Mae (Webster) Finch.  She attended the Eaton Rapids First United Methodist Church.  She was a Red Cross Volunteer, a member of the Eaton Rapids Community Hospital Auxiliary, and the Rocking Chair Deserters Senior Citizens Center.

   She is survived in death by her three brothers, Benjamin, Louis, and William “Sonny” Finch; three sisters, Bessie Bouts, Margaret Pearson, and Pauline Thuma.

   Services were Oct. 10 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with the Pastor Roberts Betts officiating.  Interment followed at Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Rapids Community Hospital Auxiliary or to the Eaton Community Hospice.

 

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Leo F. Finley

 

   Leo Franklin Finley, 19, of Olivet died Feb. 28, 1997.

   Mr. Finley was born Aug. 3, 1977, in Eaton Rapids, the son of Robert and Rena (Biddle) Finley.  He was employed in the shipping department of Masterbuilt, Olivet.  He was active in the Heritage Hills W.O.L. basketball program.

   He is survived by his wife, Angela; his parents, Rena and Glen Segar; two brothers, Ronald Finley of Bellevue and Paul Segar; three sisters, Gretchen (Paul) Cruz of West Palm Beach, Fla., Roberta (Shawn) Walker of San Diego, Calif., and Maggie Sparks of West Palm Beach, Fla.; a niece and nephew, Melody and Kasey Brown of Bellevue; grandparents, Margaret Finley of Mesick and Dorothy Biddle of Sheridan, Ind.; one uncle, Ronald Finley of Mesick; and his father and mother-in-law, Frank and Sue Holmes of Charlotte.

   He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Finley; his grandfather, Leo Clay Finley; and his great-grandfather, Robert Biddle.

   Services were March 4, at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with Pastor David MacDonald officiating.  Interment was in the Riverside Cemetery, Bellevue.

 

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Ralph H. Fisher

 

   Ralph H. Fisher, 71, of Olivet died May 9, 1997, at the Oaklawn Hospital, Marshall, after a short illness.

   Mr. Fisher was born in Wayne County, the son of John and Clara (Reid) Fisher and had been an Olivet resident for 52 years, coming from the Detroit area.  He was a retired Standard Oil Co. Agent in the Olivet area and had served in the Army during World War II in the Asiatic/Pacific Theater.

   He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Janith (Bartlett); one daughter, Denise Thorman of Stockbridge; one son, Steven (Charline) of Graford, Texas; six grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

   Services were May 13 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Clark Hock officiating.  Interment was in the Fort Custer National Cemetery, Augusta, with full military honors.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Visiting Nurse Services of Southern Michigan or American Cancer Society.

 

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Elsie M. Forshee

 

   Elsie M. Forshee, 96, of Charlotte, formerly of the Gaines and Durand areas, died July 31, 1997 at Hayes Green Beach Hospital, Charlotte.

   Mrs. Forshee was born July 23, 1901, in Bay City, the daughter of August and Mary (Dahn) Kurkau.  She had lived in the Charlotte area since 1980, moving from the Gaines and Durand areas.  She married Stanhope Forshee in Grand Blanc.  Mrs. Forshee was a member of the Gaines Methodist Church since 1942.  She was a homemaker.

   She is survived by one daughter, Virginia (Edward) Atherton of Charlotte; two grandsons; three granddaughters; eight great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

   She is preceded in death by her husband, Stanhope Forshee; her parents; and one  brother, Norman.

   Services were Aug. 2 at the Gaines United Methodist Church, Gaines, with the Rev. David Fleming officiating.  Arrangements were made by the Streeter Funeral Home, Gaines.

   Memorial donations may be made to the Gaines United Methodist Church, Gaines.

 

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Wayne H. Foster

 

   Wayne H. Foster, 77, of Vermontville died April 18, 1997, at Pennock Hospital, Hastings.

   Mr. Foster was born Oct. 19, 1919, in Elk City, Kan., the son of Bert and Dora (Mitchell) Foster.  He married Barbara Howell on Feb. 28, 1946, in Lansing.  He graduated from Elk City High School and from college in Independence, Kan., in 1940.  He was a World War II Army Air Corps Veteran serving the 242nd Battalion seeing action in the Middle East, China, Burma, India, Europe and the South Pacific.  He lived in Kansas from 1946 until 1954 then moved to Michigan.  He was a farmer and a mason contractor.  He was a member of the Carson Mason Lodge #132 in Elk City, Kan., the American Legion Post #333 in Vermontville, and was a life member of the Order of Eastern Star.

   He is survived by four children, Troy (Sharon) Foster of Peever, S.D., Linda (Doug) Lewis of Vicksburg, Kenneth (Marsha) Foster of Charlotte and Barbara (Jeff) Byington of Vermontville; four sisters, Wanda McElwain of Elk City, Kan., LaVelle (Jim) Groundwater of Temecula, Calif., Waunita (Mervin) Davidson of Emporia, Dan., and Treva Fehr of Topeka, Kan.; 13 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara, March 30, 1995; his parents; brothers, Emmett, Bert Jr. and Fred; two infant brothers; one sister, Pauline Bronson; and an infant sister, Clavelle Foster.

   Services were April 26 at the Maple Valley Chapel-Genther Funeral Home, Nashville, with Doug Stall, Richard Garn, Nashville Masonic Lodge and the Vermontville American Legion officiating.  Interment was in the Woodlawn Cemetery, Vermontville.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Maple Valley Memorial Scholarship Fund.

 

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Dorothy A. Fox

 

   Dorothy Adelle Fox, 79, of Charlotte died June 5, 1997.

   Mrs. Fox was born July 12, 1917, in St. Louis, Missouri, the daughter of Erwin L. and Lillian Mae (Leeak) Dickmeyer.  She moved to Iowa at the age of 4 and graduated from high school at Burt, Iowa, in 1934.  She was a bookkeeping machine operator and accountant for the state of Michigan from 1946-77.

   She is survived by her husband, Howard; one son, Richard (Julia); two granddaughters, Michelle and Dawn; one sister, Maxine; and two brothers, Dale and Ordel.

   She was preceded in death by one brother, Clifford.

   Services were June 9 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

 

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Louis W. Fradette II

 

   Louis W. “Bud” Fradette II, 76, of Charlotte died April 25, 1997.

   Mr. Fradette was born April 10, 1921, in Prairie Du Chien, Wis.  He was a retired teamster and drove truck for A. W. Arthur Company, Howard Sober and C & J for 31 years.  He also worked in heavy construction for many years.  He was a member of the Charlotte Eagles Aeries #3552.

   He is survived by his wife, Grace; three daughters, Ethel Marie (Dale) Wright of Garnavillo, Iowa, Joanne (Ron) Nagle of Eastman, Wis. and Gale (Robert) Slane of Wausau, Wis.; three sons, Dale of Prairie Du Chien, Wis., Donald (Joanne) of Milford and Louis III (Brenda) of Charlotte; 13 grandchildren; one sister, Edna Scoville of Desoto, Wis., and one brother, Frank of Prairie Du Chien, Wis.

   He was preceded in death by one son, Frances.

   Services were April 30 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Noel Hall-Niemann officiating.

 

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Doris May Fraley

 

   Doris M. Fraley, 45, of Eaton Rapids died June 11, 1997, in Jackson.

   Mrs. Fraley was born March 30, 1952, the daughter of Scott M. and Bertha V. (Taylor) Bibler.

   She is survived by her husband, Wayne; daughter, Tonya; 3 sons, Tommy, Timy, and Todd; 7 grandchildren; 3 brothers, Grover (Pauline), Scott, and John; 4 sisters, Carol, Louise (Charles), Alice (Dusty), and Peggy (Gene).

 

 

   Services were held on June 13 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with Rev. Stephen Klink officiating.  Interment followed at Springport Cemetery.

 

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Arthur L. Francis

 

   Arthur L. Francis, 85, of Charlotte died May 8, 1997.

   Mr. Francis was born Feb. 10, 1912, in Bentley, the son of Archie and Mae (Green) Francis.  He owned Art’s Barber Shop on main street in Charlotte and was a barber for 45 years until his retirement at the age of 70.  He was a member of the Charlotte Country club.

   He is survived by his wife, Margaret; three daughters, Penny (Eugene) McGroth of Springfield, Va., Judy Hackett (Dr. Paul Hyink) of Grand Rapids, and Molly Francis of Chicago, Ill.; one son, Timothy (Cindy) Francis of Charlotte; eight grandchildren; two great-grandsons; one brother, Kenneth (Ruth) Francis of Bay City; and one sister, Leola Stageman of Clarkston.

   Services were May 12 at the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church, Charlotte, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.  Interment  was  in the

 

 

 

 

 

Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Charlotte Public Library.

 

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Jack T. Gallagher

 

   Jack T. Gallagher, 74, of Eaton Rapids died April 6, 1997, in Eaton Rapids.

   Mr. Gallagher was born Aug. 16, 1922, in Lansing, the son of Gordon and Margaret (VanAmburg) Gallagher.  He was a member of St. Peter Church, Eaton Rapids, and a graduate of Resurrection High School, Class of 1942.  He was a veteran of WWII serving in the U.S. Army Air Corp. and a member of the VFW.  He retired from Motor Wheel in 1980 after 34 years of service.

   He is survived by three daughters, Kay (Jim) Cole of Eaton Rapids, Sueanne Hackett of Lansing and Patricia (Mark) Willett of Holt; three sons, John, Robert and Ronald all of Eaton Rapids; 15 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; one brother, Gordon Gallagher of Ohio; two sisters, Joanne (Jack) Puffer of Pennsylvania and Joyce Eavey of Lansing; and several nieces and nephews.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Helen, in 1982.

   Services were April 9 at St. Peter Church, Eaton Rapids.  Interment was in the Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Lansing.  Arrangements were made by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Eaton Community Hospice.

 

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Ron L. Gamble

 

   Ron L. Gamble, 45, of Bellevue died Feb. 19, 1997, at his home after a long illness.

   Mr. Gamble was born June 20, 1951, in Battle Creek, the son of Hugh and Doris (Morrison) Gamble.  He was a graduate of Bellevue High School and had been employed as a master mechanic for the state of Michigan, where he serviced state vehicles.  He had previously been employed by the city of Battle Creek Motor Division.  He married Elaine Smith July 22, 1978.

   He is survived by his wife, Elaine; one son, Don, at home; two daughters, Dawn and Deann, both at home; his mother, Doris Gamble of Bellevue; one brother, Jim of Bellevue; and two sisters, Mary Gamble and Johanna Keyworth, both of Bellevue.

   He was preceded in death by his father, Hugh, April 14, 1993.

   Services were Feb. 22 at the Shaw-Lehman Funeral Home, Bellevue.  Interment was in the Riverside Cemetery, Bellevue.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

 

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Carl D. Garity

 

   Carl D. Garity, 83, of Olivet died April 28, 1997, at the Marshall Manor, Marshall, after an extended illness.

   Mr. Garity was born in Marshall Township, Calhoun County, the son of Pierce and Zadia (Rial) Garity and was a lifelong Olivet and Bellevue area resident.  He had been employed by Air Way Manufacturing Company in Olivet retiring in 1977 after 15 years of service.  Previously, he had been employed at the Oliver Corporation in Battle Creek.  He was a member of the Ainger Bible Church.

   He is survived by his wife, Wilma (Struble); two sons, David (Kay) Garity of Bellevue and Keith (Dodie) Garity of Cleveland, Ga.; one daughter, Barbara (Warren) Parker of Venice, Fla.; three stepsons, Ronald (Nancy) Henry of Olivet, Gaylord (Shirley) Henry of Grayling and Gordon (Linda) Henry of Olivet; one stepdaughter, Elizabeth (Robert) Yago of Fowlerville; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; three brothers, Pierce Garity of Missouri, Tom Garity of Nashville and Huey Garity of Bellevue; and nine sisters, Lena Hughes of Battle Creek, Caroline Sellen of Olivet, Alice Squires of White Cloud, Lois Guthrie of Grand Rapids, Joyce Scott of Battle Creek, Marion Goris of Nashville, Ardith Beauchamp of Detroit, Jean Carnell of Battle Creek and Mary Lou Plaunt of Nashville.

   He was preceded in death by his first wife, Viva (Holcomb) in 1976; twin granddaughters, Dawn and Denise Garity in 1978; and one brother, John Garity in 1991.

   Services were April 30 at the Ainger Bible Church, Olivet, with Pastor Scott Brood and Pastor Jack Skirvin officiating.  Interment was in the Olivet Cemetery.  Arrangements were made by the Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Ainger Bible Church or the charity of one’s choice.

 

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Ralph Ellis Garnant

 

   Ralph Ellis Garnant, 90, of Charlotte died July 7, 1997 at the Maple Knoll Manor in Charlotte.

   Mr. Garnant was born September 27, 1906 in North Dakota, the son of Charles and Ida (Mattely) Garnant.  He was a farmer in both the Eaton Rapids and Charlotte areas, prior to retiring in Fla.

   He is survived by his wife, Evelyn (Singler) of Charlotte; daughter, Carole (Norvin) Holm of Indian River; and son, Rodger (Sharon) Garnant of Charlotte; 4 grandchildren; and 5 great-grandchildren.

   He is preceded in death by his first wife, Emma (Droscha); sisters, Blanche and Ruth; brother, Glen; and a grandson.

   Services were held July 9 at the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids, with the Pastor Geri Litchfield officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Brookfield United Methodist Church.

 

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Lonnie R. Garvie

 

   Lonnie Ray Garvie, 39, died Dec. 28, 1996, in Sturgis.

   Mr. Garvie was employed as a cook at Herrymann’s Restaurant in Sturgis.

   He is survived by one son, Lonnie Jr.; four daughters, Evelyn, April, Cheyenne, and Autumn; his mother, Nancy Garvie of Lagrange, Ind.; his father, John (Marie) Garvie of Vermontville; four brothers, Neil of Angola, Ind., James and Johnny, both of Lansing, and Ricky; two sisters, Tonna Grubb of Sturgis and Sheila Monroy of Athens; one half brothers, Scott of Hastings; and three half sisters, Kelly of LaGrange, Ind., Tina Marie of Burr Oaks, and Karen of Kalamazoo.

   He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Harold and Velma Garvie and one brother, Robert.

   Services were Jan. 2 at the Rosier Funeral Home, Mapes-Fisher Chapel, Sunfield.  Interment was in the Sunfield Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

 

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Elizabeth “Betty” M. Gemalsky

 

   Elizabeth “Betty” M. Gemalsky, 71, of Charlotte died Feb. 27, 1997.

   Mrs. Gemalsky was born May 17, 1926, the daughter of Donald and Harriet Williams.  She was affiliated with the Charlotte Country Club.

   She is survived by her husband, Kurt; four brothers, Don (Lillian) Williams of College Station, Texas, and Keith (Carol) Williams, Charles (Phyllis) Williams, and James Williams, all of Eaton Rapids; two sisters, Janet (Bruce) Higgins, and Mildred (Earl) Heintz, all of Eaton Rapids; and nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by one son, Neil Gemalsky, Sept. 22, 1996.

   Services were March 1 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Duane Royston officiating.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

 

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Breonna L. Geroy

 

   Breonna L. Geroy, age 4 months, of Hastings died Oct. 30, 1997, at Pennock Hospital of injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

   Breonna was born June 29, 1997, in Lansing, the daughter of Steven and Stephanie (Uhl) Geroy.

   She is survived by her parents; two sisters, Brittany and Autumn; three brothers, Joshua, Steven, and Johnathan; paternal grandparents, Richard and Carol Hilligus of Delton; and maternal grandmother, Ellen Uhl of Phoenix, Ariz.

   She was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Harold Uhl.

   Services were Nov. 3 at the Shaw Funeral Home, Bellevue, with the Pastor Gerald W. Gallaway officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the family, 322 W. Mill St., Hastings, MI  49058.

 

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Joyce M. Gerow

 

   Joyce M. Gerow, 71, of Charlotte died March 6, 1997, at the Columbia South Bay Hospital, Sun City Center, Fla.

   Mrs. Gerow was born in Detroit, the daughter of William and Marion (Smith) DeVinney.  She was co-owner, along with her husband, Kenneth, of the Crestview Motel, Charlotte, and had formerly sold real estate.  She was a member of the Laugh-A-Lot-Club, volunteer at Hayes Green Beach Hospital, and with her husband, had been involved with projects and activities of the Charlotte Lions Club.

   She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Kenneth; five daughters, Gail (Richard) Phariss of Warren, Suzette (Barton) Billiu of Commerce, Karen (John “JJ”) Johnson of Costa Mesa, Calif., Laurel (Richard) Howard of Lansing, and Valerie (Lewis) Hyde of Charlotte; 11 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; one brother, William DeVinney of Detroit; one half-brother, Charles DeVinney of Wisconsin; and one half-sister, Elizabeth Nejman of Mt. Prospect, Ill.

   Services were March 11 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

 

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Merle Getter

 

   Merle “Vern” Getter, 80, of Eaton Rapids died Dec. 26, 1997, in Lansing.

   Mr. Getter was born June 18, 1917, in Eaton County, the son of Bert and Delia (Weldon) Getter.  He retired from Diamond Reo in 1974 after 31 years of service and he also farmed.

   He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Lena; one daughter, Shirley (Andrew) Gambino of Phoenix, Ariz.; one son, Richard (Joyce) of DeWitt; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; one brother, Dale (Waneta) of Eaton Rapids; four sisters, Eva Jankovic of Marshall, Elsie Howe of Florida, and Hilda (Robert) Elston and Reva Peterson, both of Eaton Rapids.

   He was preceded in death by one son, Stanley.

   Services were Jan. 4 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with Pastor Tom Evans officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association or Alzheimer’s Association.

 

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Fern L. Ghere

 

   Fern L. (Hill) Ghere, 91, died Aug. 16, 1997, in Eaton Rapids.

   Mrs. Ghere was born March 1, 1906, in Harper County, Kansas, the daughter of Melvin David and Rena Jane (Divine) Hill.  She was a member of the Eaton Rapids First United Methodist Church and its Miriam Circle and past president of the Eaton Rapids Hospital Auxiliary.

   She is survived by one son, John R. (Barbara) Ghere; and two granddaughters, Jean (Randy) Mayville and Karen Ghere, all of Onondaga.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, George in 1986 and one brother, Guy Hill, in 1965.

   Services were Aug. 19 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with Pastor Tom Evans officiating.  Interment was at Rosehill Cemetery.

 

 

 

 

   Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church or Eaton Rapids Community Hospital Auxiliary.

 

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James R. Gibson

 

   James R. Gibson, 73, of Lansing died Sept. 12 after a lengthy illness.

   Mr. Gibson was born in Gibson County, Tenn., the youngest child of John and Madeline Gibson.  He joined the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, serving in Utah and Colorado.  He enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II, and served as a gunner’s mate in the Naval Armed Guard aboard merchant ships.  Following the war, he worked at Oldsmobile Division in Lansing, retiring in 1982 after 35 years.  He also owned and operated Foster Avenue Grocery from 1956-62.  He was a member of VFW Post 701, UAW Local 652, and the U.S. Navy Armed Guard Association.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Margie (Polly) in 1994.

   He is survived by his son, Lawrence Gregg (Nancy) Gibson of Charlotte; two grandsons, John and Keith Gibson; and two sisters, Catherine Algee and Francis Gibson, both of Ypsilanti.

 

 

 

 

 

   Country Comfort AFC offered kind, loving and compassionate care over the past four years.

   Funeral arrangements were by Pray Funeral Home.

 

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Leona E. Giffen

 

   Leona E. Giffen, 72, of Bellevue died Feb. 25, 1997, in the Battle Creek Health System.

   Mrs. Giffen was born Feb. 13, 1925, in Sherman, the daughter of Charles and Bessie (Lake) Spellman.  She married Homer W. Giffen April 18, 1942, in Sherman.

   She is survived by her husband, Homer; one daughter, Romona LaPoint of Bellevue; two sons, James of Lansing and Donald of DeWitt; 11 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Ethelda Hayes of Lansing, Millie Butcher of Mesick, and Charlotte Lake of Luther; and one brother, Charles Spellman Jr. of Holt.  She was preceded in death by one granddaughter, Melissa Baker, and one sister, Hazel Baldwin.

   Services were March 1 at the Olivet First Assembly of God with the Rev. Doug Hammond officiating.  Interment was in the Bosworth Cemetery, Olivet.   Arrangements  were  made by

 

 

 

 

 

the Shaw Funeral Home, Lehman Chapel, Bellevue.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

 

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Vera E. Gifford

 

   Vera E. Gifford, 94, of Eaton Rapids died April 11, 1997, of natural causes at her granddaughter’s home in Alpena.

   Mrs. Gifford was born July 24, 1902, in Eaton County, the daughter of William and Lillian (Willis) Owen.  She joined the First Baptist Church when she was just a young woman.  She and her husband, Gayle, were co-owners of the Eaton Rapids Journal from 1927 to 1954.

   She is survived by her daughter, Kathie Foote of Eaton Rapids; three grandchildren, Nathan Foote of Grand Ledge, Gayle Betz of Alpena and Eddie Foote of Eaton Rapids; and seven great-grandchildren, Skye and Alex Brooks, Zach, Tessa and Zoe Betz and A.J. and Casey Foote.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Gayle, in 1981; one great-granddaughter, Carly Foote in 1990; and one son-in-law, Dr. J.B. Foote in 1977.

   Graveside services were April 14 at the Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Wayne Foote officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Pied Piper Opportunity Center for playground equipment.

 

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Anna L. Giles

 

   Anna Leona Giles, 98, of Eaton Rapids died June 3, 1997, in Charlotte.

   Mrs. Giles was born Nov. 12, 1898, in Lansing, the daughter of George and Cordelia (Nivison) Munson.  She was a member of the First Congregational Church in Eaton Rapids, and retired from the Secretary of State office in 1965.

   She is survived by one daughter, Roberta Mead of Crystal River, Fla.; one son, Calvin (Mildred) Richards of Eaton Rapids; three grandchildren, Bill (Marilyn) Richards of DeWitt, Kathy (Tim Maink) Richards and Barbara Alexander all of Lansing; and four great-grandchildren.

   Graveside services were June 5, at the Mt. Hope Cemetery, Lansing, with Pastor Sharon Wozencraft officiating.  An Order of Eastern Star Memorial service was June 4, at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton County Medical Care Facility.

 

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Caroline Carper Gilkerson

 

   Caroline Carper Gilkerson, 78, of Charlotte, died Oct. 2, 1997.

   Mrs. Gilkerson was born Oct. 9, 1917, in Phoenix, Ariz., the daughter of Carl and Clara (Carper) Kunz.

   She is survived by daughter Carolyn (Ken) Swanson of Charlotte; sister, Laura Katherine (George) Commenator of Tucson, Ariz.; seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, James T. Gilkerson, in 1992.

   Arrangements were prepared by Pray Funeral Home.

 

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Bertha P. Goodrich

 

   Bertha P. (Schulze) Goodrich, 87, of Charlotte died Aug. 6, 1997, at a local adult foster care home.

   Mrs. Goodrich was born July 11, 1910, in New England, N.D., the daughter of John and Pauline (Schindler) Debler.  She was a long-time Eaton County resident.

   She is survived by one daughter, Lillian (Harley) Eaton of Charlotte; one son, Larry (Rosella) Schulze of Charlotte; seven grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; two sisters, Edith Arndt of Grand Ledge and Mary Litchfield of Mulliken; three brothers, Ervin Debler of Paoli, Indiana, Robert Debler of Lansing, and Albert “Jim” Debler of Sunfield; and several nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by her husbands, William Schulze and Gerald “Charlie” Goodrich; one granddaughter, Barbara Conklin. and one great-grandson, Rhoby Conklin.

   Services were Aug. 8 at the Barker-Leik Funeral Home, Mulliken, with the Rev. Arthur Salisbury officiating.  Interment was in the Meadowbrook Cemetery, Mulliken.

 

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Russell L. Granger

 

   Russell Lynn Granger, 53, of Lyons, formerly of Charlotte, died May 3, 1997, in Lyons.

   He worked as an electrician all over the United States.

   Mr. Granger is survived by his mother, Margaret Strang of Lansing; five brothers, Robert (Penny) Granger, Ronald (Debbie) Granger, and Patrick (Suzan) Strang, all of Charlotte, Dennis (Janice) Strang of Lansing, and Robert Strang; two daughters, Rebecca Granger of Ionia and Rachel (George) Shook of Charlotte; three sons, Russell of Detroit, Ronald of Mason, and Ray of Ionia; two grandchildren, Joshua and Cameron Shook of Charlotte; many nieces and nephews; and special nieces and nephew, Kirstine and Brandon Sherman of Charlotte.

   At Mr. Granger’s request, cremation has taken place and there were no services.

 

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C. Duane Gray

 

   C. Duane Gray, 74, of Bellevue died March 27, 1997, at Hayes Green Beach Hospital, Charlotte.

   Mr. Gray was born in Coldwater, the son of Clare and Alta (Palmer) Gray and had been a lifelong area resident having lived in the Battle Creek, Olivet and Bellevue areas.  He was a 1942 graduate of Olivet High School, served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, worked as a truck driver for Associated Truck Lines, and had been employed by Airway Mfg. Co. in Olivet.  He was a member of the Olivet First Assembly of God.

   He is survived by his wife, Mary (Ball); one son, Michael (Lynn) of Charlotte; two daughters, Celia Anne “Annie” Meredith of Battle Creek and Cynthia “Cindy” Fenters of Bellevue; three grandchildren, Jessica and Ryan Fenters and Alta Gray; and two brothers, Glen of Battle Creek and John of Massachusetts.

   He was preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters, Ruth Colburn and Jane Gray.

   Cremation has taken place.  Memorial services were March 29 at the Olivet First Assembly of God Church, Olivet, with the Rev. Douglas Hammond officiating.  Arrangements were made by the Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Olivet First Assembly of God Church.

 

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Ralph M. Green

 

   Ralph M. Green, 84, of Eaton Rapids, formerly of Lansing, died Dec. 17, 1997, in DeWitt.

   Mr. Green was born July 13, 1913, in Jackson, the son of Norman R. and Agnes (Gustoffson) Green.  He retired from Purity cylinder Gasses in 975 after 29 years of service.  Mr. Green was a member of the Eaton Rapids Senior Center.

   He is survived by his two daughters, Barbara (Henry) Puffenberger of Eaton Rapids and Susan (L. Richard) Steffens of DeWitt; son, Frank (Jean) Green of san Jose, Calif.; eight grandchildren; three step grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren; and five step great-grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Janet McNaughton-Green.

   Services were held Jan. 17 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.  Interment of cremains was at Gunnisonville Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Rapids Senior Center.

 

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Irene Gregarek

 

   Irene Gregarek, 86, of Charlotte died July 8, 1997.

   Mrs. Gregarek was born Oct. 18, 1918, in Eaton Township, the daughter of Frank James and Clarinda Augusta (Fullerton) Wright.  She had worked as a store clerk at Jerrolds for 37 years.  She was a member of the Women’s Guild, the Campfire for 40 years, manager of Hayes Green Beach Hospital gift shop, and reader at St. Mary’s School.

   She is survived by nieces and nephews, Betty Gilding of Charlotte, DeWayne Wright of Vermontville, Esther Grant of Charlotte, Wendall Wright of Vermontville, Phyllis Bothwell of Fountain, Patty Butler of Eaton Rapids, Larry Wright of Charlotte, Milo Wright, Eleanor Wheaton, and Neil Wright of Charlotte; sister-in-laws, Catherine Wright of Charlotte, Mary Charlow of Dimondale, and Ann Porter of Owosso; and brother-in-law, Floyd Gregarek of Colorado.

   She is preceded in death by her husband, Frank; sister, Daisy Ames; and brothers, Don and Carson Wright.

   Services were on July 11 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with Rev. Father Thomas Nenneau officiating.   Interment   will   be   in   Maple   Hill

 

 

 

 

 

Cemetery in Charlotte.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Hayes Green Beach Hospital.

 

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Suzanne Grove

 

   Suzanne Grove, 71, of Charlotte died March 10, 1997, at her residence after an extended illness.

   Mrs. Grove was born in Morigny, France, the daughter of Edmond and Rachelle (Poncet) Blouin.  She had been a Charlotte resident since 1987 coming from Shreveport, La.  Prior to that, she had lived in Europe where her husband had been superintendent for the American Battle Monuments Commission.

   She is survived by one son, Patrick of Charlotte; one daughter, Michele Grove of Charlotte; two granddaughters, Jessica and Suzanne Grove, both of Charlotte; and one grandson, Randy Grove of East Lansing.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Merlyn, July 3, 1996.

   Services were March 13 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Jerry Slivensky officiating.  Interment was in the Fort Custer National Cemetery, Augusta.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice, Charlotte.

 

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Don H. Gutchess

 

   Don H. Gutchess, 75, of Charlotte died April 29, 1997, at Sparrow Hospital, Lansing.

   Mr. Gutchess was born March 4, 1922, in Nashville, the son of Samuel and Matie (Sheldon) Gutchess.  He graduated from Charlotte High School and was in the artillery during World War II.  After the war he was a machinist at Eaton Stamping in Battle Creek and at Standard Stamping in Nashville.  He was a member of the Nashville VFW Post #8260 and Hastings Eagles.

   He is survived by one brother, Von Gotchess of Colorado; several nieces and nephews; and special friend and companion for 22 years, Joan Harwood of Charlotte.

   He was preceded in death by eight brothers and sisters.

   Services were May 1 at the Maple Valley Chapel-Genther Funeral Home, Nashville, with Chaplain Richard Genther officiating.  Interment was in the Lakeview Cemetery with full military honors.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Nashville VFW #8260.

 

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Charles E. Hadley III

 

   Charles “Chuckie” Edward Hadley III, 20, of Charlotte died Nov. 25, 1997.

   Mr. Hadley was born Nov. 16, 1977, in Charlotte, the son of Charles E. Hadley II and Wendy Feldpausch.  He was a 1996  graduate of Charlotte High School and received a Scholastic Aptitude Test scholarship.  He was a member of the First Lutheran Church of Charlotte.

   He is survived by his parents, Charles (Tiva) Hadley II of Hohenwald, Tenn., and his mother, Wendy (Larry Pingle) Feldpausch of Charlotte; one sister, Tia Hadley; two brothers, Jeremiah Hadley and Ty Hadley; his grandparents, Clare and Joyce Wilmore, Charles E. and Beverly Hadley, and Millie Palacios; his great-grandmother, Anne Wright; and special friend, Amanda Whitson.

   Services were Dec. 1 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. John Bookshaw officiating.  Interment was in the Gresham Cemetery, Charlotte.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made through the First Lutheran Church, Charlotte.

 

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Donald Lewis Halbeisen

 

   Donald Lewis Halbeisen, 83, of Charlotte died Oct. 20, 1997.

   Mr. Halbeisen was born Sept. 17, 1914, in Carmel Township, the son of Augustus and Mary Anna (Deere) Halbeisen.  He was a farmer, as well as working for Eaton Stamping for 20 years.  He was also a Valley school board treasurer in the mid-1960s.  He married Catherine Henry on Dec. 26, 1942.

   He is survived by Catherine, his wife of 54 years; two daughters, Mary Ann Halbeisen and Katy (Doug) Shumaker, both of Charlotte; four sons, Stephen (Valli) Halbeisen, Dennis (Bonnie) Halbeisen, Ian Halbeisen, all of Charlotte, and Alan (Linda) Halbeisen of Ada; 12 grandchildren; a brother, Robert Halbeisen of Birmingham; sisters, Dorothy Briggs of Grand Rapids and Emma (Mrs. Joseph) Halbisen of Charlotte; sister-in-law, Agatha (Mrs. Max) Halbeisen of Charlotte.

   Funeral services were Oct. 23 at the Pray Funeral Home with the Rev. Darwin Kuhl officiating.  Interment was in West Carmel Cemetery.

   Donations may be made to the Charlotte Public Library or Hayes Green Beach Hospital.

 

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Durwood N. Hale

 

   Durwood N. Hale, 62, of Charlotte died Feb. 14, 1997.

   Mr. Hale was born June 28, 1934, in Charlotte, the son of Robert and Margaret (Enell) Hale.  He was a supervisor at Owens-Illinois glass factory until 1981 and also for Nationwide Security until his retirement in 1995.

   He is survived by his wife, Esther; two sons, Scott (Tessie) Hale of Holland and Lawrence Hale of Warren; one daughter, Robin (William) Eaton of Charlotte; two stepsons, Richard Clark of Battle Creek and Daniel Clark of Olivet; four stepdaughters, Cheryl (Alan) Sebastian of Marshall, Connie (Martin) Kill, Julie Sine, and Penny Roush all of Olivet; two brothers, Robert (Germaine) Hale of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Melvin (Corene) Hale of Nashville; and 24 grandchildren.

   Services were Feb. 17 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Richard Garn officiating.  Interment was in the Benton Township Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

 

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Stanley L. Hale

 

   Stanley L. Hale, 75, of Charlotte died Sept. 23, 1997, at his Roxand Township home.

   Mr. Hale was born March 4, 1922, in Danby Township, the son of Ilo and Mabelle (MyIntyre) Hale.  He was a retired Federal Forge worker and a member of the N.R.A.  His hobby was traveling, which he did for several years.

   He is survived by his wife, Etta; one son, Ron of Charlotte; one daughter, Joan (Larry) King of Charlotte; two grandsons; and three great-grandchildren.

   Services were Sept. 25 at Meadowbrook Cemetery, Mulliken, with Pastor Don Woolum officiating.  Arrangements were made by Barker-Leik Funeral Home, Mulliken.

 

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Luella E. Hall

 

   Luella E. Hall, 91, of Eaton Rapids died Nov. 4, 1997, in Eaton Rapids.

   Mrs. Hall was born Dec. 6, 1905, in Eaton Rapids, the daughter of Charles and Julia (Drake) Lease.  She attended both the First United Methodist and First Congregational churches of Eaton Rapids.  She had been employed with Horner Woolen Mills and retired from Miller Dairy Farms in 1971.  She was a member of the Rocking Chair Deserters and their Mad Hatter Band.

   She is survived by one daughter, Dolores “Dee” (Robert) Hazel of Mason; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and one sister, Maxine Walsh of Albion.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Harvey; one sister, Fannie Woods; and four brothers, Everett, Don, Maxwell, and Roscoe Lease.

   Services were Nov. 7 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Robert Betts officiating.  Interment was in Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice or Arthritis Foundation.

 

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Ralph L. Hanchett

 

   Ralph Levi Hanchett, 87, of Nashville died April 8, 1997, at Thornapple Manor, Hastings.

   Mr. Hanchett was born April 11, 1909, in Ypsilanti, the son of Foster and Mabel (Proctor) Hanchett.  He attended school in Plymouth and moved to the Battle Creek area after.  He married Nina Coffman in Hastings on June 17, 1934.  He farmed most of his life and raised cattle and milk cows.  He also worked at Eaton Manufacturing and in later years worked at the Nashville Gravel Company.  He was a member of the Farm bureau and the Grange.

   He is survived by his wife, Nina; one daughter, Darlene Hughes of Nashville; two granddaughters, Kathi (Bob) Schroder of Bellevue and Kaye (Ed) Herrera of San Bernardino, Calif.; two great-grandsons, Wyatt and Tanner Schroder; and one nephew, Ted Hanchett of New Mexico.

   He was preceded in death by three brothers, Everett Hanchett, Clifford Hanchett and Harry Miller; and one sister, Ilda Hanchett.

   Services were April 11 at the Maple Valley Chapel-Genther Funeral Home, Nashville, with the Rev. Don Roscoe officiating.  Interment was in the Ellis Cemetery, Lacey.  Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

 

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Christy W. Hansen

 

   Christy W. Hansen, 86, of Charleston, S.C., died Oct. 29, 1997, in a local nursing facility.

   Mr. Hansen was born May 13, 1911, in Trufont, the son of Martin and Marie (Rassmusen) Hansen.  He was a 1928 graduate from the University of Michigan.  He was a Presbyterian and a retired mechanical engineer with Westvaco.  Mr. Hansen was a member of the Elks, Home Health Services, Papermill Athletic Association, Westvaco Retiree Association, University of Michigan Alumni, and the American Legion Greenville Post.

   He is survived by two daughters, Kathy E. Holcomb of North Charleston, S.C. and Georgia J. Hoppmann of Charleston, S.C.; two sons, David M. Hansen of Clemson, S.C. and Kirby B. Hansen of Charleston, S.C.; nine grandchildren; one brother, Jens. B. Hansen of Ariz.; and five sisters, Jane Rotier, Jean Casault, and Sandra Lyon all of Charlotte, Sally Stowe of California, and Sue Harkness of Connecticut.

   Services were Oct. 31 in Henry Stuhr, Inc. Downtown Chapel.

 

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Charles L. Harmon

 

   Charles Lee Harmon, 33, of Lansing formerly of Charlotte died Aug. 16, 1997, in Lansing as the result of an automobile accident.

   Mr. Harmon was born July 22, 1964, in Charlotte, the son of Robert and Marie (Uhl) Harmon and had been a lifelong area resident.  He was a self-employed repairman and yard care worker.

   He is survived by one son, Eric of Charlotte; his parents, Robert and Marie Harmon of Charlotte; his fiancé, Angela King, and her children, Misty, Starr, and Christopher King, all of Lansing; two sisters, Penny (Robert) Granger and Dawn (James) Morse, both of Charlotte; seven brothers, Lonnie (Jane) of Missouri, Jack of St. John’s, Jeffery (Molly) of Harrison, Byron of Lansing, and Dean (Cindy), David, and Christopher (Leisa), all of Charlotte, and many nieces and nephews.

   He was preceded in death by a brother, Robert, and a sister, Roxanne Marie.

   Cremation has taken place.

   Memorial services were Aug. 20 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte.

 

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Barbara J. Harris

 

   Barbara J. Harris, 62, of Olivet died Jan. 9, 1997, at Hayes Green Beach Hospital, Charlotte, where she was taken after being stricken at home.

   Mrs. Harris was born in Marshall, the daughter of Leo and Florence (Weers) Boysen, and was a lifelong Olivet area resident.  She was a 1952 graduate of Olivet High School, attended the Nashville Baptist Church, and was employed as a claims representative at State Farm Insurance Company in Marshall where she had worked for over 30 years.

   She is survived by her husband, Wayne; one daughter, Lori (Deano) Lamphere of Chatham, Va.; one son, Martin (Marie) Harris of Springport; four grandchildren, Joshua, Eric, and Adam Lamphere and Kayla Harris; and two sisters, Joan (Douglas) Dadow of Battle Creek and Kathy (Bill) Struwin of Tekonsha.

   She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Jerry Boysen; and one sister, Rosa Hackenburg.

   Services were Jan. 13 at the Nashville Baptist Church, Nashville, with the Rev. Lester DeGroot officiating.  Interment was in the Bosworth Cemetery, Olivet.  Arrangements were made by the Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Nashville Baptist Church Building Fund.

 

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Arawana M. Hart

 

   Arawana Mae Hart, 88, of Grand Ledge died April 27, 1997, in Charlotte.

   Mrs. Hart was born Sept. 11, 1908, in Fayette County, Iowa.  The family moved to Michigan in 1912 where she graduated from Muir High School and nurses training at Blodgett Memorial Hospital, Grand Rapids.  She was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church, the Fifty Plus Club, life member of the Order of Eastern Star Chapter #14 of Grand Ledge, the Telephone Pioneers of America, Michigan Farm Bureau and the Retired Senior Volunteer Program.  She retired from Michigan Bell Telephone Company (now Ameritech) in 1969, after 40 years as a service representative in the commercial office.  She devoted her remaining years to volunteer service on behalf of senior citizens.  Her numerous awards for community service included the “Silver Bowl” Carnation Award in 1988 by the Voluntary Action Center of Greater Lansing, and Friends for Life Senior Service Award in 1990 by the Tri-County Office on Aging with a tree planted as a lasting tribute in Frances Park, Lansing, marked with a commemorate bronze plaque.

   She is survived by two sisters-in-law, Jessie Chapman and Helen Bassett; and several nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by her husband of 42 years, E. Ralph Hart; parents, John and Mabel Bassett; three brothers, Arnold, Milford and Courtland Bassett; and one niece, Donna Bishop.

   Services were April 29 at the Peter & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.  Interment was in the Delta Center Cemetery, Delta Township.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Trinity United Methodist Church, Scholarship Fund or the Grand Ledge Senior Citizens Center.

 

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Max W. Hart

 

   Max W. Hart, 90, of Olivet died May 7, 1997, at his residence after an extended illness.

   Mr. Hart was born in Grand Rapids, the son of Otis and Margaret (Stringham) Hart and had lived most of his life in the Bellevue and Olivet area.  He was a 1923 graduate of Olivet High School and had been employed at the Lark Equipment Company, Battle Creek, from where he retired in 1972 after 28 years of service.

   He is survived by three sons, Bruce (Elizabeth) Hart of Dallas, Texas; Barry (Mary) Hart of Charlotte and Benny Hart of Olivet; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Esther, in August of 1973.

   Graveside services and interment were May 10 at the Riverside Cemetery, Bellevue, with Pastor Mark Booth officiating.  Arrangements were made by the Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made for Gideon Bibles.

 

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Fern J. Hastings

 

   Fern Janette Hastings, 72, of Lansing died March 17, 1997.

   Ms. Hastings was born Jan. 3, 1925, in Charlotte, the daughter of Fred and Beatrice (Tripp) Raines.  She worked as a custodian for Holiday Inn, Lansing.

   She is survived by two daughters, Fronzee Nelson Deihm and Diana Thompson both of Lansing; one grandson, Bill (Cindy) Zerba; two great-grandchildren, Matthew and Ashley; one brother, John Raines; and four sisters, Valerie Lass, Maxine Olson, Ruby Smith and Thelma Simons.

   She was preceded in death by her mother, Beatrice Mominee in 1994; and one grandson, Brad Zerba in 1977.

 

 

 

 

  Services were March 19 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Arthur Salisbury officiating.  Interment was in the Gresham Cemetery, Eaton County.

 

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Wendell Hathaway

 

   Wendell “Wank” Hathaway, 72, passed away Sept. 9, 1997, in Tampa, Fla.

   Mr. Hathaway was born March 8, 1925, in Lansing, the son of Clair and Bernice (Hover) Hathaway.  He moved to Eaton Rapids at an early age and graduated from Eaton Rapids High School with the class of 19943.  He owned and operated Hathaway Tool retiring in 1980.  He was a life member and past master of Masonic Lodge #63 F.A.M., Eaton Rapids.  Mr. Hathaway was also a member of the Scottish Rite Valley of Grand Rapids.

   He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Dorothy; daughter, Cheryl (Bill) Cahoon of Hudson, Fla.; son, Greg (Kathy) Hathaway of Kingsport, Tenn.; 5 grandchildren; 1 great-grandson; sister, Dea Price of San Antonio, Texas; and several nieces and nephews.

   Private services were in Florida.  Interment of cremains was in Grace Memorial.

 

 

 

 

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice or the Masonic Lodge #63 in Eaton Rapids.

 

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Rosalie Haun

 

   Rosalie Haun, 82, of Phoenix, Ariz., formerly of Charlotte, died Nov. 13 at her home.

   While living in Charlotte, she was employed by Packard’s Furniture Store and Johnson’s Lumber, Co.

   She is survived by her husband, Forrest; brother and sister-in-law; and nieces and nephews.

   Services were Nov. 18 at Green Acres Chapel and burial was at the Green Acres Cemetery in Scottsdale, Ariz.

 

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Maybelle L. Hawley

 

   Maybelle Lillian Hawley, 72, of Charlotte died July 19, 1997.

   Mrs. Hawley was born Dec. 22, 1923, in Eaton Rapids, the daughter of Roy and Nellie Claflin.  She was self-employed as a housekeeper.

   She is survived by three daughters, Leslie Deutscher of Battle Creek, Bonnie (John) Adams of Charlotte, and Jolene (Bruce) Lybrand of Arkansas; one son, Wayne of Battle Creek; one sister, Lena (Gerald) Woodman of Battle Creek; one brother, Harold (Sara) Claflin of Ohio; 13 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

   She was preceded in death by her first husband, Leslie Moore; second husband, Horace Hawley; and one son, William.

   Graveside services are Saturday, Aug. 30, at the Bosworth Cemetery in Walton Township.

   Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

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Doris H. Haynor

 

   Doris Helen (Cure) Haynor, 81, died Jan. 21, 1997.

   Mrs. Haynor was born May 6, 1915, to Pearl (Griffin) and Hiram Cure at their residence in Sunfield.  She was a 1933 graduate of Sunfield High School and a partner with Maude Hanna in C&H Dry goods, Sunfield, beginning in 1941.  She bought the business in 1943 and sold it in 1947.  She married Robert Haynor of Wheeler in 1947.  In recent years, she had lived with her sons and families in Sunfield and Clarksville.

   She is survived by two sons, Kerry of Sunfield and Rodney of Clarksville; three grandchildren, Lee, Caroline, and Paul Haynor; two cousins, Harold Hanna of Sunfield and Ella (Griffin) Worrall of Phoenix, Ariz.; and many nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert in 1985.

   Services were Jan. 24 at the Rosier Funeral Home, Maples-Fisher Chapel, Sunfield, with the Rev. Earl Thomas officiating.  Interment was in the Sunfield Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

 

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Gerald B. Healey

 

   Gerald B. Healey, 64, of Dimondale died March 5, 1997.

   Mr. Healey was born March 14, 1932, in Lansing, the son of Howard and Majel Healey.  He was a 1950 graduate of Olivet High School.  He was a veteran of the Korean War Conflict where he served at the rank of staff sergeant.  He had been employed at Oldsmobile for 32 years and was a member of the U.A.W. #652.  He was a member of the Delta Haven Free Methodist Church.

   He is survived by his wife, Barbara; two sons, Michael (Kelli) of Scottsdale, Ariz., and Mark (Sue) of Parma; two daughters, Diane (Terry) Thompson of West Des Moines, Iowa, and Kimberly (Jon) Dodge of Lansing; his parents, Howard and Majel Healey of Apopka, Fla.; one sister, Mary Anne (Joe) Hines of Apopka, Fla.; one brother, David of Elkhart, Ind.; and 13 grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by one sister, Janet Wanzer.

   Services were March 8 at the Gorsline-Runciman Co. Lansing Chapel.  Interment was in the Deepdale Memorial Park.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.

 

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Margaret H. Heinze

 

   Margaret H. Heinze, 86, passed away Oct. 15, 1997, at her residence in Mulliken.

   Mrs. Heinze was born Oct. 30, 1910, in Oneida Township, Eaton County, the daughter of Ralph J. and Blanch (Drake) Lipsey.  She graduated from Grand Ledge High School and County Normal.  She taught school for many years and later was employed by the State of Michigan in Lansing, until her retirement in 1977.

   She is survived by 3 sons, Dr. Douglas (Sally) Heinze of Howell, Rodney (Linda) Heinze of Vermontville, and Philip (Peggy) Heinze of Sunfield; 4 daughters, Nancy (Ken) Lancaster of Hastings, Carolyn (Leon) Cluckey of Martin, Ohio, Janice Heinze of Panama City, Fla., and Jeanette Nevins of Charlotte; 21 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; one brother, Ralph (Jean) Lipsey of Grand Ledge; and several nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Thraves; and sister, Clarice Rhodes.

   Services were Oct. 17 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Paul Bailey officiating.  Interment followed in Benton Township Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice or to a scholarship fund of your choice.

 

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Hazel Heisler

 

   Hazel G. (Sine) Heisler, 87, of Marshall died Sept. 4, 1997, at the Michigan Capitol Medical Center, Greenlawn Campus, Lansing after an extended illness.

   Mrs. Heisler was born Dec. 16, 1909, Calhoun County, the daughter of Luey R. and Mary E. (Long) Sine.  She had been a resident of Lee Township most of her life.  She attended the Striped School, a once prominent rural school in Calhoun County, was a graduate of Marshall High School and the Calhoun County Normal.  Also, she received her Bachelor of Science Degree from Western Michigan University.  She taught in many rural schools.  Mrs. Heisler joined the faculty at Olivet Community Schools as teacher and also served as Teacher-Principal for 7 ½ years.  She retired in 1973 with 41 ½ years of service.  She was a member of the Lee Center United Methodist Church, where she did many things.  Also, she was a member of the Michigan and National Education Associations, the AARP, and many other committees of the Teachers Organizations.

   She is survived by a grandson, Jerry (Brenda) Heisler of Olivet; one granddaughter, Patricia Hodgkinson of Marshall; three great-grandchildren; sister, Peg Reed of Albion.

   She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Gerald “Jeff” Heisler; son, Luey Heisler; brothers, Lawrence Sine and Ormond Sine; and by a sister, Florence.

   Services were Sept. 8 at Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Valerie Hill officiating.  Interment was in the Lee Center Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Lee Center United Methodist Church or the Olivet Community Schools.

 

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Marion I. Heisler

 

   Marion I. (Southworth) Heisler, 86, of Charlotte, formerly of Olivet, died Sept. 7, 1997, at Hayes Green Beach Hospital, Charlotte, after an extended illness of several months.

   Mrs. Heisler was born in Eaton Township, Eaton County, the daughter of Clifton and Ruth (Creitz) Southworth.  She was a lifelong Charlotte/Olivet resident.  She was a retired employee of the Eaton County Medical Care Facility in Charlotte.  Mrs. Heisler was a member of the Olivet and Charlotte Rebekah Lodge and attended the Olivet Senior Citizens group.

   She is survived by her daughter, LeAnn (Charles) Green of Charlotte; daughter-in-law, Marjorie Heisler of Charlotte; 8 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Dorothy (Victor) Halsey of Charlotte and Eleanor Potocki of Hilton Head Island, S.C.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Cecil G. Heisler; three sons, Gary, Clifton, and Cecil Jr.; sister, Donis Lashbrook.

   Services were Sept. 11 at Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Pastor John Bookshaw officiating.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.  Memorial contributions may be made to the First Lutheran Church or the American Diabetes Association.

 

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Marian I. Hicks

 

   Marian I. Hicks, 70, of Charlotte died Jan. 29, 1997.

   Mrs. Hicks was born Nov. 14, 1926, the daughter of Clarence and Imo (Sturdevant) Sloan.  She was a rural mail carrier until her retirement in 1992.  She had also been a former realty associate and local accountant.  She was affiliated with Meals on Wheels, Helping Hands, the Wednesday afternoon bowling league, and American Legion Auxiliary.

   She is survived by her husband, Richard; one daughter, Judy Trayer of Charlotte; four sons, Richard of Charlotte, Scott (Mary Kay) of Traverse City, Larry (Kelly) of Alma, and Michael of Lansing; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; her mother, Imo Sloan of Charlotte; and three sisters, Vivian (Edward) Bobcik of Charlotte, Lillian (Ed) Smith of Kalamazoo, and Karen Bowers of Dimondale.

   Services were Jan. 31 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army.

 

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Kenneth C. Higgins

 

   Kenneth C. Higgins, 82, of DeWitt died June 28, 1997.

   Mr. Higgins was born Dec. 1, 1914, in Eaton Rapids, the son of Willard and Merle (Mellon) Higgins.  He graduated from Eaton Rapids High School in 1932 and received his master’s degree from Albion College in 1938.  He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and received the Purple Heart.

   He was a teacher and coach for Albion Public Schools, retiring in 1976.

   He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Esther (Nelson); one daughter, Genie (John) of DeWitt; one son, Kenneth (Donita) of Florida; five grandchildren; one great-grandchild; one brother, Bruce of Eaton Rapids; and one sister, Betty of Eaton Rapids.

   He was preceded in death by one brother and two sisters.

   Private services will be held in Albion.  Arrangements were made by the Osgood Funeral Home, St. Johns.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Hazel Findlay Manor, St. Johns, or First United Methodist Church in Albion.

 

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Leo J. Hitpas

 

   Leo J. Hitpas, 78, of Jackson (formerly of Charlotte) died July 11, 1997, at his home.

   Mr. Hitpas served 4 ½ years in the Air Force in the Pacific during WWII.  He retired as manager after 34 years with the G.C. Murphy Company in Charlotte.  He was part president of the Kiwanis Club in Ohio, was a member of the Knights of Columbus, and the VFW.  He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Vera K. Hitpas; son, Jim (Tina) Hitpas of Mt. Pleasant; daughter, Nancy (Jim) Halbeisen of Brooklyn; and granddaughter, Lori Halbeisen of North Carolina.  He is preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, and one sister.

   Cremation has taken place.  Memorial mass was held at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte.  Arrangements were made by the Desnoyer Funeral Home in Jackson.  Flower contributions can be made to the American Heart Association.

 

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Eveline S. Hoch

 

   Eveline S. Hoch, 79, of Apollo Beach, Fla., formerly of Eaton Rapids, died Jan. 29, 1997, at Columbia South Bay Hospital, Sun City Center, Fla.

   Mrs. Hoch was born Oct. 28, 1917, in Eaton Rapids, the daughter of Jay and Dema (Tubbs) Bush.  She was a retired bookkeeper for the National Bank of Eaton Rapids and a former member of the First Congregational Church, Eaton Rapids.  She was a 1935 graduate of Eaton Rapids High School.

   She is survived by one daughter, Nancy (James) Miller of Apollo Beach, Fla.; two grandchildren, Matthew (Kathy) Miller and Sara Miller, both of Apollo Beach, Fla.; one sister-in-law, Anne Bush of Murrell’s Inlet, S.C.; and several nieces and nephews.

   Services were Feb. 3 at the Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Carl Sundermeyer of the First Congregational Church, Eaton Rapids, officiating.  Interment was in the Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Rapids Community Hospital.

 

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Richard J. Hoisington

 

   Richard James Hoisington, 11, of Monroe, formerly of Potterville, died March 15, 1997, at the Mott Children’s Hospital, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, after a long illness.

   Richard was born in Lansing, the son of Ralph and Gina (Fry) Hoisington.  He had been a resident of Monroe since 1989, going there from Potterville.  He was in the fifth grade at Waterloo Elementary School in Monroe and was a member of Cub Scout Pack #567 in Monroe.

   He is survived by his mother, Gina; one brother, Ryan Fuller of Monroe; grandparents, Kenneth and Georgia Fry of Potterville; and several aunts and uncles.

   He was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Hoisington on April 8, 1996.

   Services were March 19 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with Pastor Stephen Shook officiating.  Interment was in the Forest Lawn Cemetery, Dimondale.

   Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.

 

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Marvin V. Holt

 

   Marvin V. Holt, 60, of Charlotte died Feb. 9, 1997.

   Mr. Holt was born Nov. 22, 1936, in Cook County, Ill., the son of Luther and Ernestine (James) Holt.  He was a member of the West Windsor United Brethren Church.  He was an Army veteran, retiring from the Michigan State Police in 1988 as detective sergeant.

   He is survived by his wife, Nellie; one daughter, Trina (David) Goble of Holland; one son, Marvin (Traci) Holt of Kalamazoo; two stepsons, James Thomas of Mason, and Lyle (Josephine) Thomas of Fremont; six grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; one brother, Aubrey (Shirley) Holt of Bronson; his mother-in-law, Aurora Devlin of Coldwater; and three sisters-in-law, Beverly (Bernard) Allen, Vicci (James) Stickney, and Lenora Stanley all of Coldwater.

   He was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Marilyn Smoker.

   Services were Feb. 11 at the West Windsor United Brethren Church with Pastor Gar Hull officiating.  Interment was in the Matteson Cemetery, Bronson.  Arrangements were made by the Field & Leik Funeral Home, Dimondale.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the West Windsor United Brethren Church or the American Cancer Society.

 

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Doris L. Hook

 

   Doris L. Hook, 59, of Charlotte died Dec. 1, 1997, at a Lansing hospital.

   Mrs. Hook was born May 3, 1928, in Lansing, the daughter of Charles and Irma (Allison) Carter. 

She was a retired cashier for Community Oil Co., Charlotte.

   She is survived by her husband, Francis; one daughter, Debra Hook of charlotte; one son, Russell of Charlotte; three grandchildren; one sister, Sue Carter of Charlotte; and one brother, Ray (Glenda) Carter of Olivet.

   Services were Dec. 4 at the Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

 

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Harry A. Hopkins

 

   Harry Allen Hopkins, 85, of Zephyrhills, Fla., formerly of Charlotte and Grand Ledge, died Feb. 9, 1997, in Zephyrhills.

   He is survived by his wife, Margaret; twin daughters, Brenda (James) Brenton of Eaton Rapids and Linda (Donald) Cowley of Mount Dora, Fla.; one son-in-law, Calvin Wilson of Hayesville, N.C.; five grandchildren, Bartt (Melanie) Brenton of Eaton Rapids, Julie (Steven) Nye of Clinton, Iowa, Jonathan (Amber) Cowley of Jackson, Susan Cowley of Westland, and Craig (Laurie) Wilson of Churchville, N.Y.; four great-grandchildren; three brothers, Edwin of Otisville, Mike of Midland, and Robert of Alamo, Texas; five sisters, Cecil (Harold) Dobbs of North Branch, Ruth (Ike) Tester of Wheeler, Alice (Norris) Cooper of Shepherd, Hazel Glazier of East Lansing, and Mable (Marshall) Mockridge of Zephyrhills, Fla.; and many nieces and nephews.

   He was preceded in death by his first wife, Elaine, in 1991; one daughter, Joyce Wilson in 1982; one sister, Mary; and four brothers, Harold Clarence, Howard, and Charles.

   Memorial services were held in Florida.  Graveside services will be held in Charlotte at a later date.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Hernando-Pasco Hospice, Modan Plaza, 7066 Fort King Road, Zephyrhills, Fla.  33541.

 

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Charles E. Horn

 

   Charles E. Horn, 75, of Battle Creek died Oct. 30, 1997, at the Battle Creek Health System, Community Site.

   Mr. Horn was born March 23, 1922, in Olivet, the son of Elmer and Irene (Gorman) Horn.  He had been a Battle Creek resident since 1966.  He had been employed by the Grand Truck Western Railroad as a supervisor of signals from Chicago, Ill. to Port Huron, having retired in 1978 after38 years of service.  He was a 1939 graduate of Olivet High School and served in the U.S. Army during World War II.  He was a member of American Legion Post #54, Battle Creek, and the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalman.

   He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Dorothy (Oxby) Horn; one daughter, Cynthia (Bill) Jones of Goodrich; one son, David (Thelma) of Cincinnati, Ohio; three granddaughters; one sister, Barbara (Theron) Stults of Battle Creek; and two brothers, Donald (Joan) of Bellevue and Clifford (Letha) of Jacksonville, Fla.

   Services were Nov. 4 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Pastor Mark Thompson officiating.  Military graveside services and interment was in the Fort Custer National Cemetery, Augusta.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or Visiting Nurse Services.

 

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Irene M. Horn

 

   Irene M. (Gorman) Horn. 93, of Olivet died Aug. 26, 1997, at the Battle Creek Health System, Community Site.

   Mrs. Horn was born at Ainger near Olivet, the daughter of Charles H. and Hazel (Bradley) Gorman.  She was a lifelong resident of the Olivet area.  She worked for the Olivet College and Olivet High School.

   She is survived by 3 sons, Charles E. (Dorothy) Horn of Battle Creek, Donald (Joan) Horn of Bellevue, and Clifford (Letha) Horn of Jacksonville, Fla.; daughter, Barbara (Theron) Stults of Battle Creek; 10 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

   She is preceded in death by her husband, Elmer E. Horn.

   Services were Aug. 29 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with Pastor Mark Thompson officiating.  Interment was in the Bosworth Cemetery, Olivet.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Visiting Nurse Services or the charity of one’s choice.

 

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Ruth Horner

 

   Ruth Horner, 88, of Potterville died Sept. 23, 1997, in Lansing.

   Mrs. Horner was born April 10, 1909, in Hartford City, Ind., the daughter of George and Margaret (Craig) Casterline.  She was a retired employee of G.T.E., former treasurer and office manager for Fire Proof Storage, and former office manager for Walter Hahn Co., Lansing.  Mrs. Horner was also a former member of the Potterville School Board and member of the Telephone Pioneers of America.

   She is survived by her son, Jack (Cynthia) of Potterville; three grandsons; one granddaughter; one great-granddaughter; and sister, Ethel Mills Kaiser of Fremont.

   Services were Sept. 26 at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.  Interment was at the Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Lansing.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Potterville United Methodist Church Memorial Fund.

 

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Donna K. Hosey

 

   Donna K. Hosey, 27, of Charlotte died Oct. 27, 1997 as the result of an automobile accident.

   Ms. Hosey was born April 7, 1970, in Lansing, the daughter of Myron and Ida (Byrd) Hosey.  She worked for Tokai-Rika in Battle Creek.

   She is survived by three sisters, Kandy (Phil) Eldred of Charlotte, Marion (Michael) Galante of Glen Burney, and Jodie (Pat) Malloy of Charlotte; two brothers, Pat (Tommy) Hosey of Charlotte and Carey (Tina) Hosey of Lansing; 14 nieces and nephews; several aunts and uncles; and boyfriend, Mike Gillison Jr. of Grand Ledge.

   Services were Oct. 30 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.  Interment was in Woodlawn Cemetery, Vermontville.

 

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Roger D. Hosey

 

   Roger D. Hosey, 60, of Nashville died March 19, 1997, at the Hospice of Greater Grand Rapids.

   Mr. Hosey was born Jan. 21, 1937, in Walton Township, Eaton County, the son of Melvin and Mary (Halsey) Hosey.  He was a 1954 graduate of Vermontville High School.  He married Kathleen Ballard March 27, 1957, in Vermontville.  He earned a journeyman status in machine repair in 1970 and was employed at Oldsmobile and McKesson Company, both in Lansing; Bliss Manufacturing in Hastings; and Rockwell Company, Battle Creek.

   He is survived by his wife, Kay; one daughter, Rae (Jeff) Murphy of Nashville; one son, Roger (Angie) of Nashville; three granddaughters, Kathryn Murphy of Memphis and Cassady and Aubrey Murphy, both of Nashville; his mother, Mary Halsey of Vermontville; his mother-in-law, Tina Ballard of Bellevue; three sisters, Ardella (George) Hall of Roscommon, Wilma (Glenn) Powers of Vermontville; and Mary Lou (Doug) Faust of Charlotte; two brothers, Melvin (Harleen) of Coopersville and William (Marilyn) Hosey of Vermontville; one brother-in-law, Alfred (Sharon) Ballard of Bellevue; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

   He was preceded in death by his father, Melvin and one sister, Audra Reynolds.

   Cremation has taken place.  Arrangements were made by the Maple Valley Chapel-Genther Funeral Home, Nashville.

   A memorial luncheon was held March 21 at the Nashville VFW Post.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

 

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Helen Howe

 

   Helen Howe, 74, of Charlotte, died Jan. 19, 1997.

   Mrs. Howe was born March 12, 1922, in Lyons, Kansas, the daughter of Emeroy and Francis Hysell.  She was formerly employed by Aluminum Extrusions and Wilcox Gay, both in Charlotte.  She was a past president and member of the VFW Post #2406 Auxiliary.

   She is survived by her husband, Garland; one sister, Lila Berschaver of Albert, Kansas; two brothers, Hiram Hysell of Elsworth, Kansas, and Richard Hysell of Lyons; and several nieces and nephews.

   Services were Jan. 22 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Arthur Salisbury officiating.  Interment was in Fort Custer National Cemetery, Battle Creek.

   Memorial contribution donation envelopes are available at the funeral home.

 

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Frances M. Hunn

 

   Frances M. Hunn, 70, of Charlotte died March 25, 1997.

   Mrs. Hunn was born Dec. 18, 1926, in Fitzgerald, Ga., the daughter of James and Catherine (Dingledine) Kerr.

   She is survived by her husband, Clifford; three sons, Thomas of Constantine, Ronald of Charlotte, and Jerry (Lisa) of Colorado Springs, Colo.; one daughter, JoAnn (Larry) Jaseph of Three Rivers; nine grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Cleo Ripley of Thornapple Lake, and Gerry Berkes of Ft. Morgan, Colo.; and half-sister, Lela Strong of Jackson.

   Graveside services were March 26 at Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Helping Hands or Eaton Community Hospice.

 

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Cynthia M. Hunt

 

   Cynthia Marie (Fedewa) Hunt, 52, of Charlotte died July 23, 1997.

   Mrs. Hunt was born June 15, 1945, in Lansing, the daughter of William and Shirley (Johnson) Fedewa.  She was a member, and past president of VFW Post #2406 Auxiliary from 1983-84 and also a member of the American Legion Post #42 Auxiliary.

   She is survived by her husband, Lemuel; one daughter, Carrie Hunt of Charlotte; one son, John of Vermontville; three grandchildren; and two sisters, Rebecca (Ronald) Hayes of Grand Ledge and Jayne (Donald) Sokoloski of East Lansing.

   Funeral services were July 25 at St. Mary Catholic Church with Fr. Thomas Nenneau officiating.  Interment was in the Ft. Custer National Cemetery, Augusta.

   Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice.

 

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Jon G. Hunt

 

   Jon G. Hunt, 57, of Eaton Rapids and Lansing died Nov. 30, 1997, in Lansing.

   Mr. Hunt was born Dec. 12, 1939 in Blaine Township, the son of John Henry and Iva (Gilbert) Hunt.  He graduated from Frankfort High School and attended the South Church of the Nazarene in Lansing.  He recently retired from the U.S. Postal Service after 30 years of service.

   He is survived by two daughters, Pamela Hyde of Minnesota and Courtney Hunt of Maine; three sons, Kirk (Lisa) of Grand Rapids, Eric of Ypsilanti, and Jonathan of Maine; five grandchildren; his mother, Iva Hunt of Bear Lake; two brothers, Rodney of Herring Lake and Charles (Debra) of Traverse City.

   Services were Dec. 3 at the Herring Lake Baptist Church, Frankfort.  Interment was in the Blaine Township Cemetery.  Arrangements were made by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Herring Lake Baptist Church.

 

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Donna Hutchison

 

   Donna Hutchison, 80, of Charlotte died Nov. 21, 1997, at the Ingham Medical Hospital, Lansing.

   Mrs. Hutchison was born in Eaton County, the daughter of George and Blanche (Litchfield) Baxter.  She was a housewife.

   She is survived by one daughter, Janet (Gary) Ripley of Charlotte; two grandchildren; two great-grandsons; and one sister, Florence (Bob) Frayer of Grand Ledge.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles, and two grandsons.

   Services were Nov. 25 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Peter Brenner officiating.  Interment was in the Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

 

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Wilma M. Huyck

 

   Wilma M. Huyck, 63, of Sunfield, died unexpectedly at home Oct. 3.

   She was born Nov. 3, 1933, in Grand Ledge, the daughter of Harrison Millard and the former Christine Giesel.  She was raised in the Grand Ledge area and was a 1952 graduate of Grand Ledge High School.  She married Hans Huyck in 1954.  She was employed in various occupations; the most important was homemaker.  She was a member of the Sunfield United Methodist Church, Friends of the Library, and the Ladies Fire Auxiliary of Sunfield.  She enjoyed reading, bowling, and spending time with family and friends.

   She was preceded in death by her father, Harrison, in 1991.

   In addition to her husband, Hans, Mrs. Huyck is survived by one son, Mark (Diane) Huyck of Sunfield; three daughters, Carol (Mike) Burch of Battle Creek, Jennifer (Ed) Walker of Gladstone, and Elizabeth Huyck of Yuma, Ariz.; her mother, Christine Millard of Charlotte; two sisters, Joan (Jack) Hine of Charlotte and Shirley Dayton of Grand Ledge; one grandson, Chad Walker; three granddaughters, Kelsey and Erin Burch and Kaili Walker; and several nieces and nephews.

   Funeral services were Oct. 6 at Rosier Funeral Home, Mapes-Fisher Chapel, in Sunfield.  Interment was in Sunfield Cemetery.

 

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Sheryl A. McPhall Imler

 

   Sheryl Ann McPhall Imler, 38, of Lansing, formerly of Eaton Rapids, died Jan. 27, 1997, as the result of an automobile accident.

   Ms. Imler was born Nov. 23, 1958, in Hillsdale, the daughter of Lyle and Iris (Michael) McPhall.  She was a 1976 graduate of Eaton Rapids High School and employed as an office administrator for Jay & Nelson Heating & Cooling of Lansing.

   She is survived by her fiancé, Jay Jenson of LaCrosse, Wis.; one daughter, Kristina Eveleth of Lansing; her mother, Iris McPhall of Potterville; her father, Lyle McPhall of Sand Lake; one sister, Connie McPhall of Stockbridge; three brothers, Alan (Susanne) McPhall of Holt, Randy (Lori) McPhall of Morristown, Ariz., and Scott (Melissa) McPhall of Potterville; four aunts; one uncle; and several nieces and nephews.

   Services were Jan. 30 at the Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Thomas Evans of the First United Methodist Church officiating.  Interment was in the Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to an educational fund for her daughter, Kristina, and her unborn grandchild, in care of Iris McPhall.

 

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Mable C. Jackson

 

   Mable Charlotte Jackson, 96, of Charlotte died Feb. 19, 1997, at the Eaton County Medical Care Facility.

   Mrs. Jackson was born in Carmel Township, Eaton County, the daughter of William and Dora (Quantrell) Harmon.  She had worked for the State Department Health as a secretary for many years and later as a reporter for the Battle Creek Enquirer and News.  She was a member of the First Congregational Church, Charlotte.

   She is survived by one stepdaughter, Mary (Kenneth) David of Lapeer and several nieces and nephews.

   Services were Feb. 21 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Duane Royston officiating.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

 

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Loraine E. Janecke

 

   Loraine E. Janecke, 84, died June 14, 1997 in Eaton Rapids.

   Mrs. Janecke was born June 6, 1913, in Lansing, the daughter of John and Bertha Amelia (Hackbart) Heil.  Loraine was a member of Emanuel First Lutheran Church in Lansing.

   She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Fred; 5 daughters, Betty J. (Keith), Pat A. (Ray), Nancy M. (Dan), Susan E., and Linda D. (Barry); 4 sons, Robert E. (Linda), Don D. (Liz), John, and Paul R.; 26 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; 3 brothers, Harold (Marge), Harry (Doris), and Elmer (Dorothy).

   She is preceded in death by her daughter, Mary Lou.

   Funeral services were held on June 16 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with Pastor John Vogt and Pastor Daniel Buske officiating.  Interment followed at Deepdale Memorial Park.

 

 

 

 

   Memorial contributions may be made to Emanuel First Lutheran or the Eaton Community Hospice.

 

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Phyllis J. Jensen

 

   Phyllis Jean Jensen, 64, of Vermontville, died May 4, 1997.

   Mrs. Jensen was born April 15, 1933, in Jackson, the daughter of Marion and Mable (Ploughman) Schultz.

   She is survived by her husband, Chris; four daughters, Christina (James) Turner of Vermontville, Susan (Jon) Vilanueva of Tennessee, Sally (Brian) Symonds of Nashville and Rebecca (Shawn) Scott of Vermontville; five sons, Charlie (Lynn) of Sheridan, Ernest (Tammy) of Gowen, and Larry, Michael, and John (Janice), all of Vermontville; 20 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; one sister, Nancy (Dean) Cogswell of Greenville; and four brothers, James (Barbara) Schultz of Gowen, Fred (Sandy) Schultz of Greenville, Gerald (Vivian) Schultz of Texas and Ronald (Lucy) Schultz of Greenville.

   She was preceded in death by two sons, Donnie and Patrick.

   Services were May 7 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte,    with    the    Rev.     Duane     Royston

 

 

 

officiating.  Interment was in the Woodlawn Cemetery, Vermontville.

 

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Brent A. Jewell

 

   Brent A. Jewell, 36, of Lake Odessa passed away Oct. 11, 1997, as a result of a car accident in Eaton County.

   Mr. Jewell was born Jan. 16, 1961, in Lansing.  He graduated from Lakewood High School.  In 1979 he enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served in the Military police and was honorably discharged.  He was presently employed at Mollers in Grand Rapids as a welder.

   He is survived by his wife, Paula; son, Spencer; daughter, Amber; brother, Todd of Okemos; mother, Evelyn Jewell; father, Robert Jewell of Sunfield; sister, Tara Clark of Sunfield; step-sister, Cindy Jewell of California; step brother, Robert Allen Jewell of Belding; grandmother, Rev. Emma Jewell of Lansing; and grandfather, Paul Dunkin of Faulmouth.

   Military services were held at the Sunfield Cemetery Oct. 15, with the Rev. Harris officiating.  Arrangements were made by the Rosier Funeral Home, Mapes-Fisher Chapel, Sunfield.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

 

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Beverly J. Jewett

 

   Beverly J. (Young) Jewett, 60, of Kansas City, Miss., formerly of Charlotte, died Dec. 22, 1997, in Kansas City.

   Mrs. Jewett was born in Grand Rapids, the daughter of William and Alice (Perrault) Young.  She was a 1955 graduate of Charlotte High School, she was Valedictorian of her class.  She was a telephone operator having retired from AT&T with 21 years of service.  Mrs. Jewett was previously employed by the Michigan Bell Telephone Company.

   She is survived by one son, Rob (Andrea) Jewett of Charlotte; one daughter, Kelly (Mark) Wojtysiak of Webberville; one granddaughter; one brother, Richard (Char) Young of Leslie; and two sisters, Pam Young of Lansing and Linda (Tom) Rolph of Burley, Ind.

   She was preceded in death by her parents; and brother, Rusty Young.

   Cremation took place.  Services are to be held at a later date.  Arrangements were made by Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton County Humane Society.

 

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Charles E. Johnson

 

   Charles “Charlie” Ervin Johnson, 51, of Jackson died May 22, 1997, at his home.

   Mr. John was born in Charlotte on Jan. 27, 1946, the son of Paul Revere and Bessie Loretta (Whitaker) Johnson.  He was a veteran of the Vietnam War, serving in the U.S. Army’s 25th Armored Division.

   He is survived by one daughter, Amanda of Florida; one brother, Paul (Carol) of Charlotte; several nieces and nephews; and many close friends.

   Services and interment were May 28 at Fort Custer National Cemetery, Augusta.  Arrangements were made by Burden and Son Funeral Home of Jackson.

 

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Mabel M. Jones

 

   Mabel M. Jones, 92, of Charlotte died Dec. 31, 1996, at Hayes Green Beach Hospital, Charlotte.

   Mrs. Jones was born April 22, 1904, in Nevada, MO., the daughter of William and Birdie Ann (Bratcher) Wright.  She married Harold Jones on Jan. 14, 1922.  She was a member of the First Baptist Church, Ionia, joining in 1936.  She was a member of the Queen Esther Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, member of the Rebekah Lodge, charter member and past president of the Church Women United in Ionia; and was involved in the Ionia Charter Centennial as a seamstress.

   She is survived by two sons, Meredyth “Spud” (Roberta) of Charlotte, and Richard (Betty Jane) of Dearborn; seven grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold, Nov. 22, 1975; grandson, Donald “Ike” Jones in 1996; three brothers; and one sister.

   Services were Jan. 4 at the Myers Memorial Chapel, Ionia; with the Rev. James Bennett officiating.  Interment was in the Balcom Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church or the Order of the Eastern Star.

 

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Thomas Joseph Jones

 

   Thomas Joseph Jones, 89, of Charlotte died Oct. 3, 1997.

   Mr. Jones was born May 13, 1908, in Eaton County, the son of Clinton and Eva (Shirts) Jones.  He was in the U.S. Navy during World War II.  He married Beulah Greenman Bowers on Sept. 26, 1952.  He was an electrician for Indiana and Michigan Electric Co. for 20 years.  He was a member of the VFW 720 in Phoenix, Ariz., and a 50-year member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.  He also enjoyed fishing.

   Mr. Jones is survived by his wife of 45 years, Beulah; five step-grandchildren; eight step-great-grandchildren; sister Grace Miller of Charlotte; nephew Wellington (Bill) Miller of Hastings; and several other nieces and nephews.

   Funeral services were Oct. 6 at Pray Funeral Home, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.  Interment was at Deepdale Memorial Park, Lansing.

   Donation may be made to Eaton Manor Nurses and Aides.

 

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Janice E. Joppie

 

   Janice E. Joppie, 72, of Charlotte died Nov. 18, 1997 at her residence after a short illness.

   Mrs. Joppie was born in Vermontville the daughter of Earl and Irene (Hager) Hadden.  She has been a lifelong resident of the Charlotte and Vermontville area.

   She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Russell W. Joppie; four sons, William of Vermontville, Richard (Diane) of San Antonio, TX, Ronald (Diane) of Charlotte, and Randy (Judy) of Rockford; 7 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Eloise (Lewis) Link of Wayland, Norma (John) Atanasoff of Lansing, and Mary Ochlemacher of Lansing; one sister-in-law, Mary Jean Hadden of Wayland; and numerous nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Jerry; and two brothers, Robert and James Hadden.

   Services were Nov. 21 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.  Interment was in the Maple Hill Cemetery. 

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice.

 

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Charles R. Kane

 

   Charles R. Kane, 65, of Charlotte died March 9, 1997, at Michigan Capitol Medical Center, Greenlawn Campus after a long illness.

   Mr. Kane was born in Charlotte, the son of Leo and Ola (Hutchins) Kane and had been a lifelong resident of Charlotte.  He was a furnace installer at Kane Heating and Ventilating Company in Charlotte where he had worked since 1952.

   He is survived by his wife, Beverly (Babcock); four children, Gary (Kim) Kane of Charlotte, Kathleen (Bill) Tully of Raymond, Wash., Karen (Paul) Wilson of Charlotte, and James of Honolulu, Hawaii; 11 grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; three brothers, John of Galveston, Texas, Lyle (Alice) of Phoenix, Ariz., and Francis “Frank” (Bobby) of Charlotte; two sisters-in-law, Laura Hawley of Howard City and Dora (Robert) Klaiss of Eaton Rapids; and his mother-in-law, Lena Babcock of Blanchard.

   He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Lawrence; and one sister-in-law, Metta Lee Kane.

   Services were March 13 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Eaton County Unit.

 

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Vera I. Keesler

 

   Vera I. (McFarland) Keesler, 88, of Florida, formerly of Charlotte and Guliver, died Sept. 8, 1997.

   Mrs. Keesler was born Oct. 4, 1908, in Charlotte, the daughter of Melvin and Emma (Raymond) Shaver.  She and her husband ran the Hitching Post in Guliver from 1954 to 1980.

   She is survived by her son, Bob (Ellen) McFarland of Marshall; 5 granddaughters; and 7 great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Howard McFarland.

   Private services were Sept. 11 at Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte, with the Rev. Duane Royston officiating.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

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Laurence D. Kelley Sr.

 

   Laurence D. Kelley Sr., 76, of Charlotte, died Oct. 26, 1997.

   Mr. Kelley was born June 27, 1921, in Cement City, the son of William and Feleneice (Hand) Kelley.  He married Genevieve Siple Feb. 20, 1943 in Jackson.  He was a CPL Medic in the U.S. Army during World War II; member of the First Baptist Church of Charlotte; American Legion; Brookfield F & AM Lodge #429; and Brookfield Order of the Eastern Star #352 O.E.S.  He was a lifelong farmer and had been a corrugator for Owens-Illinois.

   He is survived by his wife, Genevieve; one son, Laurence Jr. of Charlotte; one daughter, Mildred Kelley of Battle Creek; three grandsons, Michael, William, and Jeffrey Kelley; 10 great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Robert of Jackson and Paul of Brooklyn.

   Services were Oct. 29 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with Dr. Charles Moore officiating.  Interment was in the Gresham Cemetery.

 

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Robert Louis Kellogg Sr.

 

   Robert Louis Kellogg Sr. (Bee Keeper Bob), 69, of Charlotte went home suddenly to be with the Lord Aug. 12, 1997.

   Mr. Kellogg was born in Lansing, the son of Erman and Mabel (Dolton) Kellogg.  He was a Tool Room Employee of Oldsmobile and retired in 1987.  He was also a former member of the Miller Road Church, member of the First Baptist Church of Charlotte, and a beekeeper for 55 years.

   He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Laura Genevieve; daughter, Vicki Curry of Lansing; 4 sons, James E. (Kathy) Stewart of Grand Ledge, Dennis M. (Barbara) Kellogg of Eaton Rapids, Robert D. (Tina) Kellogg of Charlotte, and Richard L. (April) Kellogg of Englewood, Ohio; 13 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; and 2 brothers, Leon (Betty) Kellogg of Holt, and Jay (Elizabeth) Kellogg of Lansing.

   He was preceded in death by his parents; 2 sisters, Eleanor Smith and Doris Hawn; and brother, Charles Updyke.

   Services were Aug. 15 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Charles Moore officiating.  Interment was in the Deepdale Cemetery, Lansing.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Lansing City Rescue Mission or the First Baptist Church of Charlotte.

 

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Celia M. Kilgore

 

   Celia M. Kilgore, 96, of Bellevue died Nov. 19, 1997 in her home.

   Mrs. Kilgore was born Aug. 13, 1901, in Cass County, the daughter of Clarence and Alice (Vale) Bundy.  She married Henry M. Kilgore in 1920.  She was a member of the Bellevue First Baptist Church, Bellevue, Sr. Citizens Association and was a lifelong member of the Charlotte VFW Post #2408 Auxiliary.

   She is survived by her two sons, Thomas Kilgore of Vermontville and James Kilgore of Battle Creek; three daughters, Faye M. Siegrist of Delton, Helen N. Rogers of Battle Creek, and Sharon K. Windon of Bellevue; 21 grandchildren; 53 great-grandchildren; 12 great-great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Kathryn M. Lewis of White Pigeon and Marion Lynn of Mesick.

   She was preceded in death by her husband; three sons, Clarence W. Kilgore, Richard Kilgore, and Eston J. Kilgore; one daughter, Betty R. Starkweather; two brothers, Harold and Kenneth Bundy; and one sister, Bessie Jewell.

   Services were Nov. 21 at the Bellevue First Baptist Church, with the Pastor Don Francis officiating.

   Interment was in Little Fish Lake Cemetery, Wakelee.  Arrangements were made by Shaw Funeral Home, Lehman Chapel, Bellevue.

 

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Margaret J. (Day) Kilgore

 

   Margaret J. (Day) Kilgore, 77, of Bellevue died Sept. 24, 1997, at her residence after a lengthy illness.

   Mrs. Kilgore was born in Bellevue Township, Eaton County, the daughter of Arthur and Anna (Underhill) Day and was a lifelong area resident.  She attended the Bellevue United Methodist Church and held memberships in the 20th Century Club, Chatter Club, and Bellevue Conservation Club.  She had done volunteer work for Meals on Wheels, the former Eaton County “County Farm”, Fort Custer Home for the Retarded, and was a Red Cross volunteer at the Eaton County Medical Care Facility in Charlotte.  She had also volunteered for the March of Dimes, American Heart Association, and American Cancer Society.

   She is survived by one daughter, Jean Ann (Richard) Hall of Charlotte; one son, Dan (Sue) of Battle Creek; five grandchildren; one great-grandson; and two sisters, Georgia Smith of McAllen, Texas, and June Smith of East Lansing.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence in 1994, and by one sister, Louise Marks.

   Cremation has taken place.

   Memorial services are Monday, Sept. 29, at 4 p.m. at the Bellevue UMC with Pastor Mark Thompson and Dr. William Sanders officiating.

   Interment of the cremains will be in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Arrangements were made by the Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Bellevue UMC or Bellevue Conservation Club.

 

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Soon H. Kim

 

   Soon Hee Kim, 90, of Olivet died Nov. 27, 1997, at her residence.

   Mrs. Kim was born in Korea and had been an Olivet resident for over 25 years.

   She is survived by two daughters, Grace (Richard) Kim of Olivet and Bonnie (Edward) Kim of Grand Rapids; three grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

   Services were Nov. 30 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Se Bong Im officiating.  Interment was in the Plainfield Township Cemetery, Kent County.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Battle Creek Seventh Day Adventist Korean Church.

 

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Gladys I. King

 

   Gladys I. King, 89, of Kalamazoo, formerly of Vermontville, died Dec. 14, 1997 at the Borgess Medical Center, Kalamazoo.

   Mrs. King was born in Eaton Rapids Township, the daughter of Joseph E. and Emma J. (Sowles) Disbrow.  She has been a lifelong Charlotte and Vermontville area resident.  She was a 1927 graduate of Eaton Rapids High School and a 1928 graduate of Eaton County Normal.  Mrs. King retired as a teacher in 1973 after 33 years of teaching.  She taught many different classes.  she was a member of the Michigan Retired Teachers Association, had been active as a 4-H Leader, and enjoyed teaching Bible School in Vermontville.

   She is survived by two daughters, Bonnie (Richard) Ohm of Nashville and Diane (Robert) Stoddard of Portage; two grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; and 5 step-great-grandchildren.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Ward B. King; three sisters, Lucille Herrick, Arvilla Schance, and Lepha Hawkins; and one brother, J. Disbrow.

   Services were Dec. 18 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Lester DeGroot officiating.  Interment was in the Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Maple Valley Memorial Scholarship Fund.

 

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Dora Louise Klaiss

 

   Dora Louise Klaiss, 72, of Eaton Rapids died July 5, 1997, at the Michigan Capital Healthcare Center in Lansing.

   Mrs. Klaiss was the daughter of Loyd and Lena (Briggs) Babcock.  She was a member of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.  Dora was a former employee at A.E. Hoover, working as a secretary and later as a draftsman.

   She is survived by her husband of 31 years, Robert; sons, Robert (Gail) Klaiss of Georgia and Dennis Vale of Montana; daughters, Teresa (Mark) Fryer of Canada, Cindy Cameron of Missouri, Debora (Melvin) Crowley of Eaton Rapids, Roxy (Steven) Kellogg of Florida, and Coquette (Ernest) Carrick of Bellaire; 17 grandchildren; sisters, Laura Hawley and Beverly Kane; and several nieces and nephews.

   Visitation will be at 10 a.m. Aug. 2, at the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, with a memorial service to follow at 11 a.m.  Elders Richard Garn and Melvin Crowley will officiate.  Interment will be in Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Charlotte Library or the RLDS Special Projects Fund.

 

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Robert E. Klaiss

 

   Robert E. Klaiss, 73, of Charlotte died Oct. 19, 1997.

   Mr. Klaiss was born March 21, 1924, in Charlotte, the son of Chauncey and Rena E. (Kent) Klaiss.  He was the owner of Bob Klaiss T.V. Repair until his retirement in 1977.  He was also a volunteer fireman for the Charlotte Fire Department.  Mr. Klaiss moved to Florida in 1977 and resided there until 1990.

   He is survived by 8 children, Kathy Fisher of Flagstaff, Ariz., Robert H. (Alma) Klaiss of Georgia, Coquette (Ernie) Carrick of Bellaire, Dennis Vale of Montana, Roxy (Steve) Kellogg of Florida, Debra (Mel) Crowley of Eaton Rapids, Cindy Cameron of Missouri, and Teresa (Mark) Fryer of Canada; mother-in-law, Lena Babcock of Blanchard; 17 grandchildren; and 3 great-grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Dora.

   Services were Oct. 23 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with Elder Richard Garn officiating.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Charlotte Fire Department.

 

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Dennis W. Kloko

 

   Dennis W. Kloko, 58, of Ashland, Mass., formerly of Charlotte, died Nov. 20, 1997, at his home after a long illness.

   Mr. Kloko was born in Three Rivers, the son of Harold and Gladys (Bucknell) Kloko of Bradenton, Fla.  He graduated from Charlotte High School in 1957 and was a registered architect in Lansing; New York, N.Y.; and Boston, Mass., most recently serving as chief operating officer of Payette Associations, Inc., Boston, Mass.  He was also chairman of the Organization for Business Professionals of Architecture Firms in the greater Boston area.  Throughout his life, he had received many awards.

   He is survived by his wife, Patricia Graham; one son, Christopher Graham Kloko; and one sister, Sandra Huntley of Colorado.

   Services will be Dec. 1 at the Federated Church of Ashland.  Arrangements were made by the Matarese Funeral Homes in Ashland.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Boston Foundation for Architecture, 52 Broad St., Boston, Mass.

 

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Leora M. Knoll

 

   Leora M. Knoll, 87, of Bellevue died Aug. 27, 1997, at her home.

   Mrs. Knoll was born April 22, 1910, in Vermontville Township, the daughter of Clyde and Ervilla (Varney) Everett.  She was a 1927 graduate of Nashville High School.  For 27 years, she was an upholsterer with the Charlotte Chair Co.  She was previously employed as a Nashville telephone operator and worked at the American Legion Hospital in Battle Creek.  She married Vern Knoll June 10, 1927 in Battle Creek and served for many years as a volunteer dispatcher for the Bellevue Rescue Squad.

   She is survived by three sons, Owen of Nashville and Richard and Philip, both of Bellevue; nine grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Cleone Knoll of Nashville; and one brother, Orville “Mike” Everett of Nashville.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Vern Dec. 23, 1980.

   Graveside services were Aug. 29, at the Hicks Cemetery, Pennfield Township, with Pastor Mark Thompson officiating.  Arrangements were made by the Shaw Funeral Home, Lehman Chapel, Bellevue.

 

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Robert K. Lahr

 

   Robert K. Lahr, 76, of Convis Township died Jan. 6, 1997, at home.

   Mr. Lahr was born May 12, 1920, in Lincoln, Ill., the son of Earl and Elsie (Hindman) Lahr.  He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II from 1942-1946.  He married Audrey Carl on March 25, 1946, in Ceresco.  He was employed at Post Cereals in Battle Creek from which he retired in 1971 after 20 years of service.  He retired from farming in 1977.  He planted and took care of all the flower beds at Ideal Speedway in Springport and helped with communications at several I-94 rest stops during the holidays with “Operation Care.”

   He is survived by his wife, Audrey; two sons, Steven (Wanda) of Albion, and Robert (Nancy) of Grand Rapids; five grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; five brothers, Bill, Don, Roy, and Tony all of Illinois, and Joe of Missouri; and three sisters, Mary, Eileen, and Mildred all of Illinois.

   He was preceded in death by one son, Clyde, who died in Vietnam in 1969; one sister, Dorothy Piaseczny in 1996; and one great-grandchild.

   Services were Dec. 9 at the Shaw Funeral Home, Lehman Chapel, Bellevue, with the Rev. Darwin Kuhl officiating.  Interment was in the Hillsdale Cemetery, Kalamo.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Good Samaritan Hospice Care or Visiting Nurse Services.

 

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Charles H. Lake Sr.

 

   Charles Henry Lake Sr., 56, of Charlotte, formerly of Marshall died May 16, 1997, at his home.

   Mr. Lake was born Oct. 25, 1940, in Jackson, the son of Charles and Margaret (Sell) Lake.  He attended Marshall schools and later took numerous college courses.  He was a U.S. Navy veteran, serving from 1957-1963.  He worked at the Kellogg Company in Battle Creek for 25 years, retiring in June of 1995.  He has lived in Charlotte since 1989 after moving from Pennsylvania, where he had been transferred with Kellogg’s in 1981.  Prior to that, he lived in Marshall.  His marriage to Judy Siefke ended in divorce.  He married Doris McDonald Rose on Nov. 19, 1988, in Holt.  He was a member of the Kellogg 25 Year Club, the Astronomy Club of Lansing, and was a member of Moose Lodge #676.

   He is survived by his wife, Doris; two sons, Paul of Virginia and Charles Jr. of Marshall; one daughter, Merrie Lake of Marshall; four stepsons, Henry Siefke II of Marshall, Daniel Siefke of Battle Creek, Randy Keith of Lake Forest, Calif., and Raymond Keith of Nashville, Tenn.; two stepdaughters, Deborah Ward of Louisville, Ken., and Robin Brown of Charlotte; 16 grandchildren, Jessica Lake, Joshua, Sean, and Krystyn Daly, Jeffrey and Jamie Jessup, Erin Brown, Giovanni Maggnietti, Ashley and Randy Keith Jr., Matt Kyle and Lisa Ward, and Cory, Sara and Travis Siefke; his mother, Margaret Tucker of Marshall; one brother, Michael Lake of Paw Paw; five half brothers, Edward Lake of Jackson, Thomas Tucker, M. David Tucker, Clarence Tucker and Bryce Tucker, all of Marshall; three half sisters, Sharon Lowry and Kathleen Sutton both of Jackson and Louise Russell of Marshall; three step-sisters, Marilyn Moore of Cement City, Evelyn Southwell of Michigan Center and Diane McGulley of Jackson. one step-brother, Darold Leffler of Michigan Center; and several nieces and nephews.

   He was preceded in death by his fathers, Charles Lake and Maurice Tucker; one half sister, Nancy Tucker; and one great-grandchild, Sean Jessup.

   Services were May 20 at the Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home, with the Rev. Mark Booth officiating.  Interment was in the Oakridge Cemetery, Marshall.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Michigan Heart Association.

 

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Jimmy D. Landis

 

   Jimmy D. Landis, 64, of Coldwater died Nov. 21, 1997, at his home.

   Mr. Landis was born Sept. 9, 1933, in Fremont, Ind., the son of Harold and Ruth (Williams) Landis.  He worked for 31 years at the Oldsmobile plant in Lansing until retiring in 1987.  He moved from Charlotte to Coldwater in 1987.  He had served with the U.S. Navy and was a veteran of the Korean Conflict.  He married Jean Fisher June 30, 1956.  He was a member of American Legion Post #52 and the Coldwater Eagles.

   He is survived by his wife, Jean; three daughters, Deborah (Steve) Montgomery of Charlotte, Rhonda (Martin) Procko of Courtland, Ohio, and Shelly (Tony) Sommer of Charlotte; his mother, Ruth Landis; two sisters, JoAnn Barnes of Angola and Julie Marteen of Coldwater; four brothers, Paul, Estle, David, and Martin, all of Coldwater; and six grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by his father, Harold; and brother, John Landis.

 

 

 

 

   Services are Nov. 24 at Dutcher Funeral Home, Coldwater, with Dave Brown officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice Home Health Care, Coldwater.

 

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Pauline B. Larsen

 

   Pauline B. Larsen, 82, of Charlotte died May 21, 1997.

   Mrs. Larsen was born July 29, 1914, in Ionia County, the daughter of Thomas Edlin and Grace DeGraw.  She had worked on the line at General Motors.

   She is survived by her husband, Vincent; one daughter, Susan (Terry) Tast of Charlotte; one son, Michael (Mary) Larsen of Dowingtown, Penn.; three grandchildren; three sisters, Marjorie White and Irene Edlin both of Belding, and Ethlyn (Norman) Kimble of Ionia; and several nieces and nephews.

   Services were May 24 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.  Interment was in the Easton Cemetery, Ionia.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Kidney Foundation.

 

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Margaret E. Lavengood

 

   Margaret Elaine Lavengood, 79, of Charlotte died July 31, 1997, at Michigan Capital Medical Center, Greenlawn Campus, Lansing after an extended illness.

   Mrs. Lavengood was born in Flint, the daughter of Michael and Helen (Kokinda) Patrick and lived in Charlotte for 50 years, coming from Marshall.  She had been a secretary at the Air-Way Manufacturing Co., in Olivet from where she retired about 14 years ago.  She was a member of the Maple City VFW Post #2406 Auxiliary, Charlotte.

   She is survived by one daughter, Barbara (Ronald) LeSeney of Lansing; one son, Roger (Susan) Lavengood of Grand Ledge; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two brothers, John Patrick and Michael Patrick of Flint; and 2 sisters, Helen Dubaj of Mt. Morris and Mary Mitoraj of Flint.

   She is preceded in death by her husband, Biron “Barney”, one daughter, Sharon Wilson, and one son, Larry.

   Services were held Aug. 4 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Pastor W.J. Amundsen officiating.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

 

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Edgar W. Laverty

 

   Edgar Wheaton Laverty, 75, of Saginaw, formerly of Charlotte, died May 6, 1997, at St. Francis Home, Saginaw, following a lengthy illness.

   Mr. Laverty was born Oct. 21, 1921, the son of Clyde and LaDana Laverty in Potterville.  He grew up in Potterville and Charlotte where he lived most of his life.  He served with the U.S. Army in World War II, then was employed at Recordio Corporation, Wilcox-Gay, then retired from Owens-Illinois in 1986.

   He is survived by his wife, Jacklyn; four daughters, Michelle of Saginaw, Lisa (Roger) Kenyon of Ft. Wayne, Ind., Dana (Robert) Schrubbe of Rio Rancho, N.M., and Linda (Dan) VanDorpe of Charlotte; one stepson, Rodney Ebersole of Culver, Ore.; 11 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; one sister, Myrtle (Russell) Sparks of Frankfort, Ind.; six nieces; one nephew; and his lifelong friend, Arlie Dimond of Charlotte.

   He was preceded in death by two sisters, Ruth Saums and Irma Newman.

   He was a life member of VFW Post #2406 and American Legion Post #42.

   Services were May 10 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the VNA-Hospice Partners in Caring, Saginaw.

 

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Harley F. Lawhead

 

   Harley F. Lawhead, 88, of Pentwater, formerly of Charlotte, died Dec. 19, 1996, at his home.

   Mr. Lawhead was born June 15, 1908, in Charlotte, the son of William and Bessie (Love) Lawhead.  He was a 1925 graduate of Charlotte High School and a graduate of the Michigan State University School of Civil Engineering.  He was a member of the Pentwater Men’s Service Club, Historical Society, and Pentwater Yacht Club.  He also served on the Pentwater Zoning and Cemetery boards.

   He is survived by one daughter, Mary (Paul) Kline; two sisters, Fern (Donald) DeZeeuw and Atha Carter; 14 grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Coral (Shaw) in 1981, his wife Madora (Bieger) in 1987, three sons, Charles, Richard and William; and one grandson, John Kline and sister, Alta Rae Frace.

   A memorial service will be held June 15 in Pentwater.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Pentwater Methodist Church.

 

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Bernadine E. Leatherbery

 

   Bernadine E. Leatherbery, 81, died Dec. 29, 1996, in Lansing.

   Ms. Leatherbery was born Mar. 23, 1915, in Eaton County, the daughter of Henry and Nettie (Taylor) Peck.  She retired from Fisher Body in April 1977, working in the Quality Control and Paint Depts.  We would like to thank Haven and her girls for the exceptional love and care that mother received at Grandma’s Home Sweet Home.  Also, Becky from the visiting nurses.  You will always be very special in our hearts for your exceptional caregiving…Thank you!

   She is survived by three children, Merwin C. (Yvonne Kettner) and Sharon A. (Rodger Garnant), both of Charlotte, and Lyle E. (Alisa Elston) of Lansing; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; one sister, Mildred Larsen of Eaton Rapids; and many nieces and nephews.

   Services were Jan. 2 at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids.  Mother, your feisty spirit will live on in our hearts forever and ever.

   In lieu of flowers, we know mother would appreciate a contribution to Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 1713, Ann Arbor, MI  48106.

 

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Carl M. Lehman

 

   Carl M. Lehman, 86, of Bellevue, retired funeral director, businessman, and community leader, died Nov. 25, 1997, in Lansing after being stricken in his car in Bellevue.

   Mr. Lehman was taken to Hayes Green Beach Hospital in Charlotte and then transported to Michigan Capital Medical Center, Lansing.

   He was born Aug. 27, 1911 in Woodland, the son of Ora and Effie (Cotton) Lehman.  He graduated from Woodland High School and the Worsham Institute of Mortuary Science in Chicago, Ill.  He served in the U.S. Army in graves registration during World War II and was an embalmer in both England and France.

   He came to Bellevue from Woodland in 1940 to work for the Volney O. Johnson Funeral Home and operated it as the Johnson-Lehman Funeral Home from 1940-49.  The business was established in 1856 as the Norton H. Johnson & Sons Funeral Home (father of Volney) and is registered as a Michigan Centennial business.  It was known as the Lehman Funeral Home from 1949-75, when he sold it to Shaw Funeral Home of Battle Creek and is presently operated as the Shaw Funeral Home, Lehman Chapel.  he also concurrently operated the Lehman Furniture Store, Bellevue, retiring in 1975 and was one of the few remaining dual funeral home/furniture store operators in Michigan, which was very common earlier in this century.  He also operated an ambulance service in Bellevue for many years and later served as a volunteer on the Bellevue Rescue Squad.  He married Pauline Douse March 22, 1941, in Nashville.

   He was a member of and recognized as a 50-year Michigan Mortuary Science licensee by the Michigan Funeral Director’s Association.

   He was active in the Bellevue community, serving as a trustee on the village council for 13 years, including two years as its president.  He was a member and past president of the Bellevue Lions and commercial clubs and the chamber of commerce.  He was also a member of the Evangel Christian Church, Charlotte.

   He is survived by his wife, Pauline; two sons, Gary (Irma) of Quincy and Brian (Debbie) of Battle Creek; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; one sister, Hildred Chase of Coats Grove; and one brother, Ronald Lehman of Woodland.

   Services were Nov. 29 at the Bellevue United Methodist Church and Mark Thompson officiating.  Interment was in the Riverside Cemetery, Bellevue.  Arrangements were made by the Shaw Funeral Home-Lehman Chapel, Bellevue.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Bellevue Lions Sight Conservation Fund or Evangel Christian Church.

 

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Edward E. LePage

 

   Edward E. LePage, 87, of Naples, Fla., formerly of Charlotte, died Feb. 9, 1997.

   Mr. LePage was a native of Michigan who spent his entire business career with the Great Atlantic and Pacific Tea Company.  He started as a store clerk in 1931 and retired in 1973 as vice-chairman of the board of directors.  He managed the Charlotte A&P store from 1936 to 1946.

   He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Irene; one daughter, Margaret Ann (Lou) Denhof; four grandsons, Scott (Terri), Mark, Steven, and David; and two great-grandsons, Ryan and Nicholas.

   Memorial services were Feb. 12 in Naples.  Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Vincent DePaul Society.

 

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Ralph Lett Jr.

 

   Ralph Lett Jr., 67, of Potterville died Sept. 20, 1997.

   Mr. Lett was born July 22, 1930, in Benton Township, the son of Ralph and Mary (Shaver) Lett.  He worked at final assembly at Diamond Reo, retired from Oldsmobile in 1993, and worked on the farm.  He was a member of the Potterville United Methodist Church and had served in the US Army (during the Korean War from 1951-53) in Japan with the 382nd Hospital Unit as a Corporal Corman.  Mr. Lett was instrumental in creating the Field of Dreams Baseball Field on Island Highway.  He was the 4th generation of Letts to live on the same farm.

   He is survived by his wife, Joan; daughter, Janice Endres of Potterville; three sons, Chuck (Shirley) of Charlotte, Steven (Robin) of Potterville, and Jerry (Patty) of Lansing; seven grandchildren; one brother, Allen (Lois) of Lansing; two sisters, Ruth (Rex) Royston of Vermontville and Laura Horde of Spring Hill, Fla.; and one sister, Sue (Joe) Martinez.

   He was preceded in death by one sister, Betty Clark and Norma Martinez.

   Services were Sept. 23 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Paul Bailey officiating.  Interment was in the Benton Township Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice or Potterville Methodist Church Building Fund.

 

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Bette Lou Lewis

 

   Bette Lou Lewis, 68, of Olivet died July 14, 1997.

   Mrs. Lewis was born Feb. 16, 1929, in Monroe, the daughter of Jonathan Levi and Bertha Ellen (Leeds) Pilgrim.  She enjoyed flowers, nature, and camping.

   She is survived by her son, John Michael (Beverly) Lewis of Olivet; daughter, Pamela Sue (Norman Douglas) Cline of St. Louis; two grandchildren; and sisters, Ellen Whitehead of Houghton Lake and Christine Evans of Otisville.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Paul E. Lewis.

   Visitation was on Wed., July 16 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte.  There will be no services.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice.

 

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Darwin L. Lilly

 

   Darwin Leroy Lilly, 52, of Charlotte died June 23, 1997, at a Lansing hospital.

   Mr. Lilly was born March 28, 1945, in Lansing, the son of Harry and G. Esther (Warner) Lilly.  He was a lifelong farmer and a 25-year employee of General Motors’ Service Parts Operation, Lansing.

   He is survived by his wife, Irene; three children, Rob Lilly, Cheryl (Gregg) Worden and Jason Lilly; four step-children; eight grandchildren; and two brothers, Duane Lilly and Doug Lilly.

   Services were June 25 at the Needmore Bible Church, Charlotte, with Pastor Darryl Johnson officiating.  Interment was in the Needmore Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 416 Frandor Ave., Suite 104, Lansing MI  48912-5294.

 

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Ion William Link

 

   Ion William Link, 85, of Charlotte died Aug. 7, 1997.

   Mr. Link was born March 22, 1912, in Kalamo Township, the son of William and Clemata (Frey) Link.  He worked as an electrician for A.E., retiring March 11, 1977.

   He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Doris; son, Earl (Marjorie) Link of Battle Creek; 4 grandchildren; and 3 great-grandchildren.

   He is preceded in death by his 7 brothers and sisters.

   Services were Aug. 11 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Duane Royston officiating.  Interment was in Kalamo Cemetery, Eaton County.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice.

 

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Beulah A. Losey

 

   Beulah “Connie” A. Losey, 88, of Sturgis died May 3, 1997.

   Mrs. Losey was born Oct. 17, 1908, in Eaton County, the daughter of John and Lois (Bradley) McConnell.  She was a 1926 graduate of Charlotte High School and a 1929 graduate of the Battle Creek School of Nursing.  She married Milo Losey in Angola, Ind., June 2, 1934.  She had been employed by the Nichols Hospital and the office of Drs. Mustard, Stiefel, Brainard, and Kingsley in Battle Creek and for 17 years by the Sturgis Hospital before retiring in 1971.  She was a member of the First United Methodist church, Morning Friendship circle, a former Shephard at First United Methodist, member of the survivors’ group of retired hospital workers, and one of 15 who won an opportunity to attend a workshop at Western Michigan University in 1991.  She was a long time member of the National League of Nursing Education, American Nurses Association, and Battle Creek and Nottawa District Nurses’ Association.

   She is survived by twin daughters, Penny (Kenneth) Cast of White Pigeon and Susan (Roger) Decker of Burr Oak; one son, William (Arvilla) Losey of Las Vegas, Nev.; 14 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; one sister-in-law, Arlene McDonnell of Canandaigua, N.Y.; and several nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Milo; her parents; two sisters, Flossie Holden and Zella LeVan; one brother, Russell McConnell; and one son-in-law, Kenneth Cast.

   Services were May 7 at the First United Methodist Church, Sturgis, with the Rev. Richard Morrison officiating.  Interment was in the White Pigeon Cemetery, White Pigeon.  Arrangements were made by the Rosenberg-Schipper Funeral Home, Sturgis.

 

 

 

   Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church, Sturgis, or Three Rivers Hospice.

 

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John C. Lothamer

 

   John C. Lothamer, 78, of Bellevue died March 19, 1997, at his farm home.

   Mr. Lothamer was born May 24, 1918, in Allen County, Ind., east of Fort Wayne, on his immigrant grandfather’s farm.  He moved to the Coldwater in the early 1920s.  During the Depression, he lived with his uncle, the Rev. Fr. Jesse Lothamer in Indiana, though he graduated from St. Charles High School in Coldwater in 1936.  He was a lifelong farmer and well known to farmers in south-central Michigan as a dealer in commercial fertilizers and seed corn.  In 1965, he and his family moved to Bellevue.  In order to provide summer employment for his large family, he operated several fruit and vegetable markets in Bellevue, Charlotte, and Battle Creek.  After his family had grown, he continued selling fresh fruits and vegetables until 1996 at a street-side market in Charlotte.  He took great pride in providing his customers with quality fresh produce.  He married Helen Marie Cox on Dec. 26, 1939.  He was a member of St. Charles Catholic Church, Coldwater, and St. Ann Church, Bellevue.

   He is survived by his wife, Helen; children, R. Susanne (Jerome) Colligan of Traverse City, Rev. James W. of Adrian, Sharon (Tom) Harrington, Danos of Palmas del Mar, Puerto Rico, Peter (Micki) of Bellevue, Rose (Gary) Bonvillain of Sunset, La., Jesse of Okemos (and Linda of Lansing), Timothy of Bellevue, Simon (Gayle) of Ann Arbor, Helen Mary (Don) Malinowski of Bellevue, Joseph (Linda) of Williamston, Patrick of Bellevue, R. Gerald (Kathy) of Bellevue and Christopher (Mary) of Petersburg, Va.; 45 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and one brother, James.

   He was preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Mary Elizabeth; one son, John “Jack”; one grandson, Benjamin Lothamer; three sisters, Clarice Linder, Helen Templin, and Jean Linehan; and two brothers, Don and Jesse P.

   Services were March 22 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Charlotte, with the Rev. Fr. James Lothamer officiating.  Interment was in the Riverside Cemetery, Bellevue.  Arrangements were made by the Shaw Funeral Home-Lehman Chapel, Bellevue.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Ann Church or the Bellevue Youth Basketball program.

 

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Elsie L. Love

 

   Elsie Lee Love, 61, of Eaton Rapids died Aug. 25, 1997, in Lansing.

   Mrs. Love was born Jan. 30, 1936, in Kentucky, the daughter of Elliott and Gertrude (Whitaker) Risner.  She retired from Eaton Stamping in 1984 after 20 years of service.  After retirement Elsie especially enjoyed waitressing at Kris’s Kitchen in Eaton Rapids.

   She is survived by her husband of 44 years, Bill; three sons, Roger Love, Brian (Pam) Love, and Timothy (Dee) Love all of Eaton Rapids; 7 grandchildren; 5 sisters, Irene (Alfred) Wittman, Jewelene Anderson, Lorene (Ed) Jecks, Mae (Bill) Locke, Joyce (Jim) Byron, all of Eaton Rapids, and Esther Risner of Lansing; two brothers, Alden (Beverly) Risner and Mark (Jan) Risner all of Eaton Rapids.

   She is preceded in death by her brother, Chalmer Risner.

   Services were Aug. 28 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Stephen Klink officiating.  Interment followed at Rosehill Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Michigan Capital Medical Center.

 

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Lucile F. Love

 

   Lucile Frances Love, 71, of Vermontville died March 18, 1997.

   Mrs. Love was born Feb. 20, 1926, in Eaton County, the daughter of Lloyd and Edith (Smith) Case.  She was a Korean War veteran.

   She is survived by two sisters, Frances Shetenhelm and Flossie Corey both of Vermontville; and several nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence in 1982; and three brothers, Allen Case, Colon Case, and Robert Case.

   Cremation has taken place.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton County Humane Society or the Maple Valley Memorial Scholarship Fund.

 

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Marian J. Love

 

   Marian J. Love, 82, of Mulliken, died Saturday, Oct. 4, 1997, in a Crossville, Tenn. hospital.

   Mrs. Love was born June 22, 1915, in Mancelona, Mich., the daughter of Frank and Gladys (Thompson) Lesher.  She was a member of the Mulliken Order of Eastern Star #363 and farm bureau, and attended the Mulliken United Methodist Church.

   She is survived by three daughters, Joyce (Larry) Rolfe of Sunfield, Judy (Thomas) Smith of Crossville, Tenn., and Audrey Langley of Redford; nine grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

   Services were Oct. 8 at Barker-Leik Funeral Home, Mulliken, with Pastor Don Woolum officiating.  Interment was in Meadowbrook Cemetery.

 

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Verland C. Love

 

   Verland Clarence Love, 64, of Charlotte, died Dec. 22, 1996.

   Mr. Love was born Sept. 112, 1932, the son of Clarence and Luella (Bauer) Love.  He was a heavy press operator in auto management for Buick-Olds-Cadillac Plant #3, Lansing, until his retirement in 1995.  He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Charlotte, where he was head usher for 20 years and served on the board of trustees.

   He is survived by his wife, Charlene; one daughter, Laura (the Rev. Christopher) Thomas of Mansfield, Ohio; two sons, Kent and Kirke (Deborah), both of Charlotte; one brother, Douglas (Mary Lou) of Glendale, Ariz.; five grandchildren, Courtney and Andrea Love, Stephen, Nathaneal, and Micah Thomas; his mother-in-law, Donna Deuel of Charlotte; and uncle Dorr (Martha) Love of Tucson, Ariz.; aunt Marie Carter of Charlotte.

   He was preceded in death by one sister, Ardith, and one brother, Mark.

   Services were Dec. 26 at the First Baptist Church.

   Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church.

   Pray Funeral Home handled arrangements.

 

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Margarette E. Lovell

 

   Margarette E. Lovell, 83, of Sunfield died March 12, 1997, at Moore’s Adult Foster Care, Charlotte.

   Mrs. Lovell was born April 22, 1913, in Sebewa Township, the daughter of Edward and Emma (Scheel) Yager.  She married Gordon Lovell June 17, 1933, and was the office manager and bookkeeper for Lovell Implement Co. in Charlotte for over 25 years.  She was a member of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union and Vermontville United Methodist Church.

   She is survived by her husband, Gordon; one daughter, Donna Jeanne (Donald) Tirrell of Charlotte; one son, Kendall (Joanne) Lovell of Portland; six grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; one sister, Bernice Trask of Lake Odessa; and one brother, Theo Yager of Lake Odessa.

   She was preceded in death by one sister, Beatrice Daniels of California.

   Services were March 14 at the Rosier Funeral Home, Mapes-Fisher Chapel, Sunfield, with the Rev. Charles Moore officiating.  Interment was in the Woodlawn Cemetery, Vermontville.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Hayes Green Beach Hospital, Charlotte, or the Sunfield Area sponsors of programs for youth, also known as SPYs.

 

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Coral “Slim” Lundstrum

 

   Coral “Slim” Lundstrum, 72, of Lewiston, died Aug. 6, 1997, in Gaylord after a long illness.

   Mr. Lundstrum was born May 27, 1925, in Eaton County, the son of Victor and Winnie (Robinson) Lundstrum.  He attended school in Vermontville and moved to Coldwater in 1954 from Charlotte, living there until moving to Lewiston in 1990 due to ill health.

   He retired in 1985 from the REW Powdered Metal Co. of Coldwater after 17 years of service.

   He is survived by his wife, Elaine; two sons, Mark of Bronson and Lynn (Sharon Atwood) of Ann Arbor; two daughters, Diana Kelly of Coldwater and Ann (Will) Rowland of Lewiston; and three grandsons, Justin Lundstrum of Bronson and Jeb and Jake Bailey of Gaylord.

   Cremation has taken place.

   Graveside services were Aug. 11 at the Mason Cemetery, Coldwater, with the Rev. John Benham officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Otsego Area Hospice or Gaylord Evangelical Free Church Elders Fund.

 

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Lawrence H. McClintock

 

   Lawrence H. McClintock, 86, of Charlotte died Jan. 9, 1997.

   Mr. McClintock was born Sept. 18, 1910, in Eaton County, the son of Howard and Myrtle (Tirrell) McClintock.  He owned and worked his own farm in the Charlotte area.

   He is survived by one sister, Ella (Roy) Nevins of Charlotte; three nephews, Dale, Raymond, and Pat McClintock; and five nieces, Theresa Crouse, Mary Arnold, Elizabeth McClintock, Myrna Maynard, and Michelle Nevins.

   He was preceded in death by his parents; stepmother, Elsie McClintock; and two brothers, Marion and Ivan McClintock.

   Services were Jan. 13 at the First Baptist church, Charlotte, with Pastor Charles Moore officiating.  Interment was in the Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice or the First Baptist Church, Charlotte.

 

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Christopher J. McClurkin

 

   Christopher Jerome McClurkin, six-week-old infant son of Shannon Bennett of Hastings and Eric McClurkin of Charlotte died Jan. 14, 1997.

   Christopher was born Dec. 2, 1996, at Pennock Hospital, Hastings.

   He is survived by his mother and father; grandparents, Robin and Jeff Bennett of Hastings, Ira McClurkin of Charlotte, Margaret McClurkin of Eaton Rapids; great-grandparents, Nancy and Clarence Pomeroy of Hastings, Debbie and Maurice Eaton of Nashville, and Genevieve and Roger Bennett of Dowling; great-great-grandparents, Eula and Charles Cooley of Clearwater, Fla., and Alice Eaton of Nashville; aunts and uncles, Brook and Michael Bennett of Hastings, and Cheryl and Chris McClurkin of Hawaii; and many great-aunts, great-uncles, and cousins.

   Services were Jan. 17 at the Wren Funeral Home, Hastings, with Pastor Lester DeGroot officiating.  Interment was in the Hastings Riverside Cemetery Babyland.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

 

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Charles D. McCuaig

 

   Charles D. McCuaig, 88, of Marshall died Oct. 31, 1997, at Jacob’s Foster Care Home, Marshall.

   Mr. McCuaig was born March 2, 1909, in Detroit, the son of Charles and Pearl (Alexander) McCuaig.  He received his bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University and worked for Upjohn in Kalamazoo for 12 years, then came to Marshall to work at Eaton Manufacturing Company.  He then became self-employed, working as a cement contractor.  He later worked at Ronan and Kunzl, from which he retired in 1975.  He was a member of the Lyon Lake United Methodist Church, Calhoun County Fire Fighters Association, St. Albans Lodge #20 F&AM, Order of the Eastern Star Chapter #385, and Tau Kappa Delta Fraternity.  He married Myrtle Day May 23, 1942.

   He is survived by his wife, Myrtle; one grandson; one great-grandson; and one niece.

   Services were Nov. 2 at the Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home, Marshall, with the Rev. Linda Burston officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Lyon Lake United Methodist Church.

 

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Alvin “Al” E. McCulloch

 

   Alvin “Al” Edward McCulloch, 52, of Ocala, Fla., formerly of Charlotte, died Nov. 22, 1997, as the result of an accident in Barber, Fla.

   Mr. McCulloch was born July 31, 1945, in Mt. Clemens, the son of Lois Grihorash and the late Edward McCulloch.  He was a 1963 graduate of Charlotte High School.  Before moving to Ocala, he was the former owner of Charlotte Tire, McCulloch Lawn and Garden, and had been a salesman for Al Hirt Ford and Martin Jeep.

   He is survived by his wife, Cheri, of Ocala; one daughter, Cheri Kiplinger of Charlotte; four sons, Sean of Ocala, Steven of Kingsland, Ga., Todd of Charlotte, and Sean Greene of Lansing; six grandchildren; his mother, Lois Grihorash of Ocala; two sisters, Carol Kraai of Vermontville; one sister, Julia McPherson of Ocala; two brothers, John of Lansing and Dick Grihorash of Ocala; and several nieces and nephews.

   Cremation has taken place.

   A memorial service was held Nov. 26 at the Fellowship Baptist Church, Fellowship, Fla.

 

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Donald Richard McFarland

 

   Donald Richard McFarland, 68, of Temple passed away Aug. 10, 1997, at Mid-Michigan Regional Medical Center, Claire.

   Mr. McFarland was born March 22, 1929, in Lansing, the son of Frank and Hazel (Peterson) McFarland.  He resided in Temple since 1986, moving from Eaton Rapids where he retired from Fisher Body, Lansing, after 35 years of employment.  Mr. McFarland was a veteran of the Korean Conflict, serving in the U.S. Army.  He was a member of the American Legion Post 404, Harrison and a member of Clare County 40 et 8 Voiture 767.

   He is survived by his wife, Dorothy of Temple; son, Donald (Norma) McFarland Jr. of Indianapolis, Ind.; daughter, Patricia DeBoer of Lansing; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; two brothers, Samuel (Ruth) McFarland of Eaton Rapids, and Jack McFarland of Florida; sister, Lorraine Powers of Lansing; and other friends and relatives.

   Services were Aug. 12 at Stocking Funeral Home, Harrison, with Elder Dale Beavers officiating.  Interment was in Fernwood Cemetery, Temple.

   Military honors were performed by officers and members of the American Legion Post 404, Harrison.

 

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Edith J. Malipsey

 

   Edith J. Malipsey, 68, of Vermontville, died Oct. 5, 1997.

   Mrs. Malipsey was born April 16, 1929, in Louisiana, to William and Ruth (Brown) Lakoda.  She was a kind and compassionate lady who worked as a nurse’s aide in home health care for many years.  She was a member of the Nashville VFW Auxiliary and a 40-year member of Hastings Loyal Order of Moose.

   She is survived by her husband, Leonard; son, Chester (Carol) Gasik of California; one granddaughter; brothers, Jesse Lakoda of Texas and Gerald Lakoda of Illinois.

   She was predeceased by son Leonard in 1977.

   Funeral services were Oct. 8 at Pray Funeral Home, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte.

 

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Alice L. Mann

 

   Alice Lura Mann, 79, of Vermontville died May 7, 1997, in Charlotte.

   Mrs. Mann was born April 3, 1918, in Leslie, the daughter of John and Dora (Smith) Haines.

   She is survived by her husband, Denzel; two sons, James (Bette) Hemstreet of Brutus and John (Mary) Hemstreet of Dansville; two step-sons, Leslie (Grace) Mann of Lansing and Harry (Carol) Kelley of Charlotte; two step-daughters, Sharlene (Terry) Thuma of Potterville and Joyce Pierpointe of Charlotte; 17 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

   Services were May 10 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Windle Davis officiating. Interment was in the Woodlawn Cemetery, Leslie.

 

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W. Harvey Mapes, Jr.

 

   W. Harvey Mapes, Jr., 83, died July 11, 1997.

   A native of Glen Ridge, N.J., he lived in Tequesta 25 years, served on the Village Council for over six years, and served as Mayor from 1980-1983.  Retiring from Munster, Ind. as Sr. Vice President of Packaging Corporation of America, a Division of Tenneco.  He attended Lehigh University, as a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity and Mercersburg Academy, Mechanicsville, Pa.  He was awarded the Army’s Silver Star in Attu during WWII and has actively volunteered in the Emergency Room at Jupiter Medical Center.

   He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Mary Woolford Mapes of Tequesta; daughter, Mary Bishop of Nevada; two sons, Reed Mapes of Florida and Stephen Mapes of Lansing; eight grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

   In lieu of flowers, consider donations to Hayes Green Beach Hospital, Charlotte.

 

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Alice M. Marshall

 

   Alice M. (Lahr) Marshall, 83, of Charlotte died Feb. 15, 1997, at Pennock Hospital, Hastings, following a long illness.

   Mrs. Marshall was born in Nashville, the daughter of Fred and Sadie (McGinnes) Fuller and had been a lifelong resident of the Charlotte and Nashville areas.  She had been employed at the former Richey’s Store and Wilcox-Gay in Charlotte, and most recently at Bosworth Veterinary Hospital.  She was a member of the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church.

   She is survived by two sons, David (Barbara) Lahr and Michael (Arletta) Lahr, both of Charlotte; two stepdaughters, Janet (Charles) McMillen of Versailles, Ken., and Delores (Jim) Knoll of Nashville; 16 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Wilma (Doug) DeCamp and Mary (Lawrence) Jarrard both of Nashville.

   She was preceded in death by her first husband, Allen Lahr in 1966; second husband, Vern Marshall in 1986; and one stepdaughter, Nancy Johncock in 1992.

   Services were Feb. 19 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. George Fleming and Elder Richard Garn officiating.  Interment was in the Gresham Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church, Charlotte.

 

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Bernadene R. Marshall

 

   Bernadene Roberta Marshall, 87, of Charlotte, formerly of Flint, died Feb. 8, 1997, in a Lansing hospital.

   Mrs. Marshall was born Aug. 15, 1909, in Charlotte, the daughter of Glen and Ida (Baisel) Saums.  She had been a resident of Flint since 1931 and had recently returned to Charlotte in 1991 to be near her family.  She graduated from Charlotte High School and attended Eaton County Normal School and Western Michigan University, earning a bachelor’s degree at Eastern Michigan University.

   She taught school for 38 ½ years in Eaton County, Mt. Morris, and the Dye schools in Genesee County, then retired from Longfellow Junior High in the Flint Public School system in 1969.  She then volunteered as a tutor in the Laubach Adult Literacy Program.  She had been a member of Calvary United Methodist Church in Flint since 1946 and its Chancel Choir for 20 years, member of United Methodist Women and Priscilla Circle, served on the Social Concern Commission, acting as chairman for three years, and a Sunday school teacher.  She was a former member of the Administration Board of the Greater Flint Council of Church, Church Women United, an associate member of Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church, Charlotte, and a member of the Flint Community Chorus, participating in several operas.  She was also a member of the National Retired Teachers Association, Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel, and Flint Retired Teachers Association.

   She is survived by two brothers, Max (Marcella) Saums of Roseville, Minn., and Howard (Wilma) Saums of Charlotte; one sister, June (Ed) Fremody of Charlotte; three nieces, Lois (Jess) Smith, and Lori (David) Brown all of Charlotte, and Joan (David) Brown of Leland; and one nephew, Ronald (Marilyn) Saums of Columbia, Mo.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, William, in 1978.

   Services were Feb. 11 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.  Interment was in the Maple Hill Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Calvary United Methodist Church, Flint, of LAUMC, Charlotte.  Envelopes are available at the funeral home.

 

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Catherine Mason

 

   Catherine Mason, 88, of Mason, formerly of Charlotte, died Nov. 23, 1997.

   Mrs. Mason was born Oct. 10, 1909, in Crestline, Ohio, the daughter of Charles and Cara (McMahon) Trick.  She married Harlon Mason May 20, 1966, and was a former owner of an adult foster care home in the Charlotte area for several years.  She was a member of the St. James Catholic Church, Mason.

   She is survived by two daughters, Shirley England of Holt and Connie Sharp of Grand Ledge; one stepson, Harlon (Janet) Jr. of Marshall; one stepdaughter, Norma Davis of Battle Creek; six grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Harlon.

   Services were Nov. 25 at the St. James Catholic Church, Mason, with the Rev. Fr. Kenneth McDonald officiating.  Interment was in the Gresham Cemetery, Chester Township.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice.

 

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Esther E. Masters

 

   Esther E. Masters, 83, of Olivet died Dec. 12, 1997, at the Borgess Medical Center, Kalamazoo.

   Mrs. Masters was born in Benton Harbor, the daughter of Jakob and Myrtle Schweikert.  She had been an Olivet resident for about 47 years.  She was a 1930 graduate of Benton Harbor High School and a 1934 graduate of Olivet College.  She retired as director of the Emily Andrus Home and was also director of Northside Manor, both in Battle Creek.  She also managed the former Marks Store in Charlotte and former Burkhead Furniture Store in Olivet.  She was grand marshall of the 1996 Olivet College Homecoming Parade and received the college’s Distinguished Alumni Award in 1994.  She was an Olivet City Council member and took part in many clubs and organizations.

   She is survived by her three sons, Preston (Glenda) Masters of Alexander City, Ala., Geoffrey Masters of Tucson, Ariz., and H. David (Ilene) Masters of Battle Creek; one daughter, Barbara (James) Brummel of Grand Haven; 12 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

   She was preceded in death by two granddaughters.

   Services were Dec. 15 at the Klock Commons in Dole Hall on the Olivet College Campus, Olivet, with the Rev. Clark Hock officiating.  Interment was in the Olivet Cemetery, Olivet.  Arrangements were made by Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Olivet College or the Olivet Congregational Church.

 

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Francis J. Masters

 

   Francis J. “Bud” Masters, 70, of Olivet died Dec. 10, 1997, at his residence.

   Mr. Masters was born in Marshall the son of Roland and Edna (Stults) Masters.  He was an Olivet area resident most of his life.  He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II and has been employed by the Kellogg Co. in Battle Creek from where he retired after 35 years of service.  He was a life member of the Nashville V.F.W., and a member of the Marshall Moose Lodge #676 and Fraternal Order of Eagles.

   He is survived by one daughter, Suzanne (Darrel) Shrontz of Elgin, Ill.; two grandsons; and four sisters, Janice L. Place of Bellevue, Marjorie Cushman of Marshall, Valdean Willoughby of Olivet, and Bernadine Cole of San Antonio, Texas.

   He is preceded in death by his wife, Estella (Magoon); son, Mark; one daughter, Pamela; one sister, Madeline Havens; and two brothers, Melvin and Keith Masters.

   Services were Dec. 13 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Clark A. Hock officiating.  Interment was in Bosworth Cemetery, Olivet.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Nashville V.F.W. Post, Marshall Moose Lodge, or the Fraternal Order of Eagles.

 

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Linda L. Mathis

 

   Linda L. Mathis, 55, of Charlotte, died Jan. 15, 1997.

   Mrs. Mathis was born Oct. 22, 1941, in Hastings.  She was a member of the Charlotte Church of Christ and employed at Owens-Brockway Glass Co. for 25 years.

   She is survived by three daughters, Cindy Crabtree and Tammy (Ross) Telfer, both of Charlotte, and Jody Gilbert of Maple Rapids; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and three sisters, Darlene (Maynard) Sixberry of Nashville, Joan (Don) Lockwood of Eaton Rapids, and Charlene (Dick) Young of Leslie; and one brother, Richard Lamie of Mecosta.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth in 1989, one daughter, Kim Mann in 1982, one son, Kenley Mathis in 1976, and her father, George Lamie in 1974.

   Services were Jan. 18 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Thomas Haynie officiating.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

 

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Emily B. Meader

 

   Emily B. Meader, 84, of Lansing, formerly of Olivet, died Oct. 28, 1997 at Tendercare Nursing Home, Marshall after an extended illness.

   Mrs. Meader was born Oct. 23, 1913, in Detroit, the daughter of William and Hattie (Niekhart) Pohl.  She was a retired self-employed beautician.  She was a member of the Lansing South Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

   She is survived by one daughter, Carol (LaWayne) Emerson of Olivet; one son, Donald A. Reid of Miami, Ariz.; 4 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; and one sister, Dorothy Tatro of Chandler, Ariz.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, John Meader.

   Services and interment were Oct. 30 at the Bosworth Cemetery, Olivet, with Larry Marlin officiating.  Arrangements were made by Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions can be made to the charity of one’s choice.

 

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Gartha L. Melaragni

 

   Gartha L. (Ball) Melaragni, 89, of Lansing, died Aug. 18, 1997, at Sparrow Hospital, Lansing, after an extended illness.

   Mrs. Melaragni was born in Charlotte, the daughter of George and Occa (Rush) McDonald.  She attended Lansing Business University and had been employed as a computer operator for the Kellogg Co., Battle Creek, retiring in the early 1970s after 20 years of service.  She had also lived in Nashville, Battle Creek, and New Port Richey, Florida, before returning to Lansing in 1991.

   She is survived by one son, Gary (Nancy) Ball of Haslett; step-son, Kenneth (Linda) Melaragni of East Lansing; four grandchildren, Pamela (Patrick) Heller, Mark (Debra) Ball, Timothy (Linda) Ball, and Peter Melaragni; eight great-grandchildren, Alina, Mary, Daniel, Cynthia, Michael, Stephen, Lisa, and Pam; six great-great-grandchildren, Niashe, Deshawn, Christian, Brittany, Tabatha, and Daniel; former daughter-in-law, Dorothy (Donald) Mahon; one brother, Howard McDonald; and many relatives, friends, and helpers.

   She was preceded in death by her husbands, Leon Ball in 1978 and John Melaragni in 1990; her great-granddaughter, Camryn Heller; and three brothers, Verl, Roscoe, and Alton “Pete” McDonald.

   Services were Aug. 21 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with Pastor Bob Homan officiating.  Interment was in the Bosworth Cemetery, Olivet.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Visiting Nurse Private Care, 1122 W. Holmes Rd., Lansing MI  48910.

 

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Bill Merriott

 

   Bill Merriott, 59, of Eaton Rapids died Sept. 11, 1997, in Lansing.

   Mr. Merriott was born May 25, 1938, the son of Walter F. and Dorothy M. (Barker) Merriott.  He was a former employee with Green Bay Foods in Eaton Rapids and of Diamond Reo, he was currently employed with Delta Electrical Contractors in Lansing.

   He is survived by his three daughters, Becky Armstrong of Okla., Julie Piper of Haslett, and Melissa (Carl) Geiger of Saranac; two sons, Robert (Stacey) Merriott of Okla., and John (Theresa) Higdon of Eaton Rapids and their mother, Betty Merriott of Eaton Rapids; 15 grandchildren; brother, Rex (Vivian) of Lansing; sister, Mary; his significant other, Joan Janecke and her four children; and two granddaughters.

   Services were on Sept. 15 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the VFW National Home.

 

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Tanya Michalcewicz

 

   Tanya Michalcewicz, 22, of Charlotte died Feb. 22, 1997.

   Ms. Michalcewicz was born May 30, 174, in Salt Lake City, Utah, the daughter of Barbara and William Michalcewicz.

   She is survived by her mother, Barbara Michalcewicz of Charlotte; her father, William Michalcewicz of South Dakota; one brother, Mark (Kimberly) Michalcewicz of Silver Lake, Wis.; one nephew, Samuel Michalcewicz; and her grandparents, George and Mary Ellen Mortimer of Springport.

   Services were Feb. 25 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Mark Booth officiating.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

 

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Marlene V. Milbourn

 

   Marlene V. Milbourn, 59, of Bellevue died July 12, 1997, at the Hayes Green Beach Hospital, Charlotte.

   Mrs. Milbourn was born in Battle Creek the daughter of Leo and Zelma (Fox) Green.  She was a lifelong Bellevue area resident.  She was a 1957 graduate of Bellevue High School.

   She is survived by her husband, Robert D. Milbourn; two daughters, Brenda (David) Kemerling of Battle Creek, and Melanie Milbourn of Bellevue; 5 grandchildren; and 1 brother, Arthur Green of Bellevue.  She is preceded in death by her parents and sister, Arlene Green.

   At her request, no services will be held.  But there will be visitation on July 14.  Arrangements were made by Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

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H. Elizabeth Miller

 

   H. Elizabeth Miller, 86, of Eaton Rapids died Jan. 3, 1997, in Eaton Rapids.

   Mrs. Miller was born Dec. 8, 1909, in Postle, Okla., the daughter of Arthur and Maude (McEwen) Bentley.  She was a seamstress and had worked for Horner Woolen Mills and later for Ide’s Clothing Store and Swan Cleaner’s all in Eaton Rapids.  She was a member of the Rebekah Sunshine Lodge #142 of Eaton Rapids.

   She is survived by one son, Kenneth (Patricia) of Westerville, Ohio; four grandchildren, Tari, Betsy, Randy, and Dan; nine great-grandchildren; and one brother, Howard Bentley of Washington.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Harry, in 1988.

   Services were Jan. 6 at the Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with the Revs. Carl Sundermeyer and John Metcalf officiating.  A Rebekah memorial service was also conducted by Lodge #142.  Interment was in the Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Rapids First Congregational Church.

 

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Homer Miller

 

   Homer Miller, 83, of St. Johns formerly of Eaton Rapids died July 29, 1997, in St. Johns.

   Mr. Miller was born on July 7, 1914 in Gladwin County, the son of Gilbert and Inez (Wing) Miller.  Homer was a retired Tool & Die Operator for the Lansing Drop Forge in Lansing.  A member of the First Congregational Church in Eaton Rapids, the F & AM Lodge #63 of Eaton Rapids, Royal Arch Chapter #100 Leslie, and a member of the Grand Valley Consistory in Grand Rapids, and an Eaton County Shriner.

   He is survived in death by his wife, Maurice Casler of St. Johns; two daughters, Ardis (Pete) Bates of Eaton Rapids and Sue (David) Johnstone of Charlotte; step-daughter, Pat (Vern) Schneider of Ovid; 5 sisters; several grand and great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

   He is preceded in death by his first wife, Marian, and son, Arden.

   Services were Aug. 1 at the Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Stephan Weinberger of the First United Methodist Church in St. Johns officiating.  Interment was in the Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to either “The House of Ruth” or the F & AM #63, Eaton Rapids.

 

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John U. Miller

 

   John U. Miller, 87, of Vermontville died July 10, 1997, in his home.

   Mr. Miller was born on Jan. 12, 1910, in Indiana, the son of Urias and Rebecca (Yoder) Miller.  He was a self-employed repairman having operated a repair and leather shop.  He was a member of the Old Order Amish Mennonite Faith.

  He is survived by his 6 sons, Emanuel of Missouri, Ezra of Indiana, Amos of Indiana, Andy of Arkansas, John Jr. of Vermontville, and Joni of Indiana; 19 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.  He is preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Susana E. Bontrager; 2 sons; a daughter; his parents; a sister; and brothers.

   Services were on July 12, with the Bishop Ray Hochstetler.  Interment was in the Meadowview Cemetery, Missouri.

 

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Eleanor Marie Mitchell

 

   Eleanor M. Mitchell, 91, of Charlotte, formerly of Potterville, died Dec. 26, 1996.

   Ms. Mitchell was born Mar. 4, 1905, the daughter of Charlie and Estella (Arnold) Whitaker.  She worked as a Teacher’s Aide from 1974 until 1982 in the Lake Odessa School system, and also worked in food service at Oldsmobile.

   She is survived by two daughters, Veralee Heinze of Potterville, and Shirley Staton of Iowa; and five grandchildren.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, John, in 1947.

   Services were Dec. 28 at Pray Funeral Home with the Rev. Robert Coen officiating.  Interment was in Benton Township Cemetery, Potterville.

 

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Lowell C. Mitchell

 

   Lowell C. Mitchell, 83, of Eaton Rapids died Jan. 2, 1997, in Albion.

   Mr. Mitchell was born April 5, 1913, in Edmore, the son of Carl and Mabel (Sheets) Mitchell.  He retired from General Motors as a tool and die maker after 30 years of service and was a barber in the Aurelius and Eaton Rapids area.  He was Past Master of the Eaton Rapids Masonic Lodge #63 F&AM.

   He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Roberta; one son, Richard (Marilyn) Lyons of Eaton Rapids; and three grandchildren, Kimberly Lyons of Eaton Rapids, Jennifer Lyons of Barrington, Ill., and Christopher Lyons of Chicago, Ill.

   Services were Jan. 6 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Stephen Klink, pastor of the Eaton Rapids Community Christian Church officiating.  A Masonic memorial service was Jan. 5, presented by the Eaton Rapids Masonic Lodge #63 F&AM.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson Disease Association.

 

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Albert C. Mohr

 

   Albert C. (Jack) Mohr, 76, of Hastings, Minn., died Dec. 14, 1997.  He was a graduate of Sherwood High School and Michigan State University.  He was a veteran of World War II.  Mr. Mohr was a life member of Sherwood Lodge #421 F&AM and of the Michigan State Alumni Association.  He worked for the Federal Land Association (FLBA) in St. Johns and Charlotte.  He served in several executive positions and was president from 1973 to retirement in 1982.

   He is survived by his wife, Viola (Grace); son, Robert (Linda) Mohr of Mattawan; daughters, Nancy (Glen) White of Lawrence, Kan., and Susan (Marlin) Nelson of Minneapolis, Minn.; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

   He was preceded in death by his sisters, Lela Murrey and Mildred Leatherbury.

   Private interment will be in the Sherwood Cemetery.

 

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Doyle E. Montgomery

 

   Doyle E. Montgomery, 68, of Inglis, Fla., died Jan. 3, 1997, at Seven Rivers Hospital, Crystal River.

   Mr. Montgomery was born in Lansing, and moved to the Inglis, Fla., area nearly 11 years ago from Clearwater, Fla.  He was employed as a general manager for Jacobson Mobile Home Manufacturing, Clearwater, Fla.  He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the U.S. Navy.

   He is survived by his wife, Ann; one son, Doyle Montgomery II of Homosassa, Fla.; one stepson, Charles Higdon Jr. of Chiefland, Fla.; three daughters, Monica Baldwin of St. Petersburg, Fla., Sheila Murphy of Oldsmar, Fla., and Debra Guth of Clearwater, Fla.; two brothers, Joe of Nashville, and Gene of Charlotte; three sisters, Dorothy Swarthout of Eastlake, and Helen Fast and Barbara both of Charlotte; seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

   Arrangements were made by the National Cremation Society, Brooksville, Fla.

 

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Robert J. Montgomery

 

   Robert J. Montgomery, 38, of Charlotte died Nov. 20, 1997, after seven years of battling cancer.

   Mr. Montgomery was born Aug. 8, 1959, in Wayne, the son of John and Stella (Morgan) Montgomery.  He worked for 18 years at the Felpausch Food Center, Eaton Rapids, and was a member of the First Baptist Church, Charlotte.

   He is survived by his parents; one brother, Jeffrey (Karen) of Dearborn; two nephews; one niece; and his grandmother, Martha Morgan of Westland.

   Services were Nov. 24 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Dr. Charles Moore officiating.  Interment was in the Bosworth Cemetery, Walton Township.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Wayne State University Brain Tumor Research or First Baptist Church Building Fund.

 

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Elizabeth Nemeth

 

   Elizabeth Nemeth, 75, of Potterville died Aug. 4, 1997, at the St. Lawrence Dimondale Center.

   Mrs. Nemeth was born Jan. 10, 1922, in Detroit, the daughter of Steve and Mary (Santa) Mayor.  She was a member of the First Assembly of God Church in East Lansing.

   She is survived by her husband, Eugene; one daughter, Betty (Rich) Bosowski of Charlotte; three sons, William (Mary) Nemeth of Lansing, Richard (Brenda) Nemeth and Robert (Twyla) Nemeth, both of Potterville; eight grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; and one sister, Margaret Meszaros of East Jordan.

   Services were Aug. 7 at the First Assembly of God Church, East Lansing, with Pastor Curt Dalaba officiating.  Interment was in Dimondale Cemetery.  Arrangements were handled by Field & Leik Funeral Home, Dimondale.

 

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Mary Ellen Ness

 

   Mary Ellen Ness, 69, of Eaton Rapids died Nov. 22, 1997, as the result of an automobile accident.

   Mrs. Ness was born Feb. 22, 1928, in Wabash, Ind., the daughter of Kenneth and Amanda Almeda (Shoemaker) Thompson.

   She is survived by her husband of 49 years, Lloyd; two daughters, Debra (the Rev. Michael) Long of Summerset Center and Jodie (David) Slaton of Eaton Rapids; two sons, Robert (Nancy) Ness of Potterville and Todd (Kathy) Ness of Lyons; 12 grandchildren; and two brothers, Gene (Georgia) Thompson of Cassopolis and Max Thompson of Eagle Lake.

   Services were Nov. 26 at the Robbins United Methodist Church, Eaton Rapids, with Pastor Marty DeBow officiating.  Interment of cremains followed at Deepdale Memory Gardens, Lansing.

   Arrangements were made by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.

 

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Teresa M. Newland

 

   Teresa M. Newland, 33, of Charlotte died April 14, 1997.

   Mrs. Newland was born Nov. 27, 1963, in Lansing, the daughter of Homer and Marilee (Satterlee) Frazier.  She was manager at the Subway restaurant in Charlotte and enjoyed playing softball with the Sharon’s Café team in Charlotte.

   She is survived by her husband, David; sons, Matthew and David; parents, Homer Frazier of Port Charlotte, Fla., and Marilee Herman of Charlotte, Mich.; brothers, Terry Frazier of Charlotte and Troy Frazier of Charlotte; half-sister, Janice Anderson of Lansing; two half-brothers, Larry Frazier of Lansing and Gary Frazier of Kalamazoo.

   No memorial services is planned, if desired, memorial contributions may be made to the family.

 

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Betty Lou Newland-Smith

 

   Betty Lou Newland-Smith of Olivet died May 14, 1997.

   Mrs. Newland-Smith was born in Ft. Scott, Kan., the daughter of Thomas and Minna (Seato) Nichols.  She was a cashier at Wrigley’s and A&P in Charlotte.  She had been a steward in the Commercial Food Handlers Union.  She married LaVern Smith June 9, 1993, in Louisville, Ken.

   She is survived by her husband, LaVern; one son, John McFarland of Olivet; one granddaughter, Cindy Moorehouse of Maryland; one nephew, Tommy; two nieces, Mickey and Gloria; step-family, Pat Smith and Melody Sowers both of Lansing, Joene and Peter Herr of Cincinnati, Ohio, Lila and Jack Smith of Alabama, and Peggy and Wayne Smith of Texas; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

   Services are Saturday, May 31, at 1 p.m. at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Arthur Salisbury officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton County Humane Society.

 

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Betty J. Norris

 

   Betty Jane Norris, 70, of Charlotte died July 18, 1997, at her residence.

   Mrs. Norris was born May 23, 1927, in Clarkston, the daughter of Ralph and Mary (Yeager) Mong.  She had been employed at Aluminum Extrusions in Charlotte for 30 years, until retiring in 1989 as a quality control inspector.

   She is survived by her husband, LeRoy; one daughter, Lynda Norris of Lansing; three sons, George (Susan) of Jackson, David W. (Ronda) of Stanton, and Jerry (Maxine) Green of Charlotte; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; one sister, R. Jean Hynd of Johanesburg; one brother, Ralph LeRoy (Elizabeth) Mong of Metamora; uncle, James (Jeanette) Mong of Franklin, Tenn.; and several nieces and nephews.

   No services were held.

   Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

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Max D. Norris

 

   Max D. Norris, 68, of Lansing, formerly of Eaton Rapids, died Aug. 21, 1997, in Lansing.

  Mr. Norris was born Sept. 3, 1928, in Loda, Ill., the son of Leo and Gertrude (Turner) Norris.  He was formerly employed with Balcom Plumbing and Heating in Eaton Rapids and retired from Oldsmobile in 1986 after 21 years of service.

   He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Mary of Lansing; one daughter, Nancy (James) Emery of Charlotte; two sons, James Norris of Arkansas, and Joseph (Debbie) Norris of Jackson; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by all of his brothers and sisters.

   Services were Aug. 23 at Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. James Cooley officiating.  Arrangements were made by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.  Military honors were presented by Eaton Rapids American Legion Post #15 and VFW Post #1283.

 

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Walter J. Obrinski

 

   Walter J. Obrinski, 53, of Olivet died March 4, 1997, as a result of an automobile accident.

   Mr. Obrinski was born in Marshall, the son of Walter and Florence (Custer) Obrinski and was a lifelong Clarence Township resident.  He was a 1961 graduate of Olivet High School, served in the U.S. Air Force from 1962-66, was a member of Charlotte American Legion Post #42, Charlotte Eagles Aerie #3552, and Eaton County Buck Club.  He was a mechanic, having worked for Wertz Implement in Charlotte and was co-owner of the W&W Sport Shop, Duck Lake.

   He is survived by one son, James of Olivet; four sisters, Helen (Steve) McNeese of Arkansas, Julia Crammond of Florida, Cecelia (Charles) Browning of Olivet, and Susan (William) Zimmer of Kalamazoo; two brothers, Russell of Olivet and Donald of Tekonsha; and several nieces and nephews.

   Services were March 8 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Robert Doner officiating.  Interment was in the Clarence Center Cemetery, Clarence Township, Calhoun County.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Association.

 

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William S. Olney

 

      William Samuel Olney, 90, formerly of Charlotte, died May 19, 1997.

   Mr. Olney was born May 15, 1907, on his parents farm in Clarendon Township Calhoun County.  He attended the Local District Born School for eight grades then entered the Homer High School where he graduated in June of 1924.

   In November of 1924 he went to work in the shipping and receiving department of the Advaria-Rumely Co. of Battle Creek.  During slack periods, he was laid off and employed as billing and demurrage clerk for the Michigan Central and Grand French Western Railways.

   In December of 1928, he married, Ruthella Deming.  He worked a short time in the traffic department of Parks Davis and Company where sickness forced him to resign.  He moved to a farm south of Homer during the Second World War, worked nights at the Simpson Mfg. Company as a machine operator, machine repairman, tool maker, production control supervisor and purchasing agent.

   In 1954, he was employed as a weigh master for the State of Michigan, was promoted to permit clerk for the Detroit District and later transferred to Lansing as permit clerk of the entire State.  He later transferred to the maintenance division where he was in charge of the state-wide electrical and mechanical crews, the guard rail straightening crew, the hot powered rubber crew and the mud jack crew, as well as liaison between the maintenance division, construction and testing and research division and testing and research division and the Army Corps of Engineers.

   He retired from the state in 1975 and in 1978 moved to Oregon where he delivered meals for eight years.  He worked for the Albany Police Department (in his 80’s he was the oldest police officer in Oregon), Linn Benton County Senior Services and Oregon Council of Government.  He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  In his later years, he was president of Sid Stevens Jewelers Corporation and actively participated in the remodeling of the Bickman Building.

   He is survived by one daughter, Cecelia Gray of Albany, Ore.; one son, Herbert of Zeeland; six grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Ruthella, Sept. 8, 1985.

   Services were May 21 at the Aasum Funeral Home Autumn Chapel, Albany, Ore.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Evergreen Hospice, 1046 6th Ave., SW, Albany, Ore., 97321; St. Mary’s Soup Kitchen, 728 SW Ellsworth, Albany, Ore., 97321; or Meal on Wheels.

 

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Gustave H. Olson

 

   Gustave H. Olson, 86, of Charlotte died Nov. 3, 1997.

   Mr. Olson was born Feb. 19, 1911, in Escanaba, the son of Victor and Freida (Nelson) Olson.  He had been employed by Herman R. Wilson Construction and Johnson Iron, both of charlotte, until 1982.  He was recognized for his contributions at the Eaton County 4-H Fairgrounds and was a life member of Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #1008, Escanaba.

   He is survived by one daughter, Vicki (Wayne) Hankins of Charlotte; two sons, Ronald (Sharon) of Charlotte and Harold (Deana) of Spring Lake; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; three step great-grandchildren; one sister, Lillian Larson of Rapid River; one brother, Roy (Red) of Escanaba; and several nieces and nephews.

   He is preceded in death by his wife, Edythe; two brothers; and one sister.

   Services were Nov. 6 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Arthur Salisbury officiating.  Interment was in the Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Charlotte Public Library.

 

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Thomas P. O’Neill

 

   Thomas Paul O’Neill, 20, died Jan. 12, 1997, as the result of a motorcycle/automobile accident at the corner of Washington Ave. and Elm St. in Lansing on Aug. 6, 1996.  The automobile involved left the scene and was not apprehended.

   Mr. O’Neill was born July 11, 1976, in Lansing and graduated from Eaton Rapids High School in 1995.  He was employed by Carpet Remnant Outlet in Lansing, while attending Lansing Community College.

   He is survived by his mother, Thelma Yando-Schultz (Larry) of Lansing; his father, Richard T. O’Neill and fiancée, Marianne Oresik, both of Eaton Rapids; one sister, Julie Ann O’Neill, and her fiancée, Bryan Clevenger, both of Charlotte; two half-sisters, Brea and Alaina O’Neill, both of Eaton Rapids; one half-brother, Cameron of Eaton Rapids; his grandfather, Thomas O’Neill of Jackson, Neb.; 11 paternal aunts and uncles; two maternal uncles; seven great-aunts and great-uncles; and many cousins.

   Mass of the Christian Burial was celebrated Jan. 16 at the St. Casimir Church, Lansing.  Arrangements were made by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Thomas O’Neill Reward Fund in care of Catherine A. Jacob, Attorney.

 

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Herman M. Osborne

 

   Herman Motor Osborne, 64, of Potterville died May 13, 1997.

   Mr. Osborne was born March 5, 1933, the son of Ernest and Sylvia Osborne.  He served in the Army during the Korean War.  He retired from Fisher Body in 1990 after 40 years of service.  He was a member of Potterville VFW Post #6034.

   He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Dorothy; two daughters, Kathy (Ric) Spitzley of Mulliken and Tammy (Larry) Landers of Charlotte; one son, Michael of Potterville; six grandchildren, Audrie, Richard, Chris, Jenny, Chan and Dena; two great-grandchildren, Katie and Sharee; three sisters, Lillian Fulton of Florida, Roseann (Evert) Welch of Lansing and Nancy (Robert) Lautzenheiser of Saranac; two brothers, Curtis (Clara) Osborne and James (Jean) Osborne both of Saranac; and several nieces and nephews.

   He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Marrion Osborne and Dorothy Blodgett; one sister-in-law, June Osborne; one brother, Richard; and one brother-in-law, George Fulton.

   Services were May 16 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Thomas Peters officiating.  Interment was in the Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Lansing.

 

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Doris N. Otto

 

   Doris N. Otto, 83, of Howell died July 30, 1997, in Howell.

   Mrs. Otto was born July 23, 1914, in Crystal and had been a resident of Michigan all her life.

   She is survived by two sons, John (Nancy) Otto of Howell and Richard (Lynda) Otto, both of Olivet; daughter, Patricia (Al) Young of Milford; 10 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren.

   Services were Aug. 2 at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel, Lansing, with the Pastor Scott Brood officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

 

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Russell M. Owen

 

   Russell M. Owen, 90, of Olivet died Feb. 7, 1997, at the Eaton Manor, Charlotte, after an extended illness.

   Mr. Owen was born Feb. 7, 1907, in Aurelius Township, the son of Martin and Eva (Linsley) Owen, and had been a resident of Olivet for 61 years.  He had been employed by Oldsmobile Division, General Motors, Lansing, retiring in 1967, after 33 years of service.  He was a member of the Olds Quarter Century Club.

   He is survived by one son, Marvin (Burdeena) Owen of Charlotte; three daughters, Nancy (Wes) Lambert, and Sally (Robert) Jensen all of Bloomfield Hills, and Connie Owen of Olivet; five grandchildren, Heidi and Heather Lambert, Jennifer Jensen, Martin Owen, and Lynn Garrison; one great-grandson, Cody Garrison; one brother, George (Alice) Owen of Irons; and three sisters, Shirley Norton and Betty (Joe) Beck all of Charlotte, and Mary Partridge of Texas.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Donnis (Gifford) Owen on June 12, 1990; two brothers; and six sisters.

   Services were Feb. 11 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Lester DeGroot officiating.  Interment was in the Olivet Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

 

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Agnes P. Pardee

 

   Agnes P. Pardee, 90, of Charlotte died June 1, 1997.

   Mrs. Pardee was born July 8, 1906, in Grand Ledge, the daughter of Benjamin and Ora Sweet.  She worked for the State of Michigan.  She was a member of the First Baptist Church, Mary Murray Circle and the State Employee Retirees Association.

   She is survived by two sons, T. John of Charlotte and Reginald “Bud” of East Jordan; five grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, George, in 1981.

   Services were June 4 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with Dr. Charles Moore officiating.  Interment was in the Chapel Hill Cemetery, Lansing.

 

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Lois O. Peacock

 

   Lois O. Peacock, 68, died June 29, 1997.

   Mrs. Peacock was born Sept. 11, 1928. She has been a resident of Okemos since 1963.  She retired from M.S.U. in 1991 after 25 years of employment.  Mrs. Peacock was a former member of Pine Lake County Club.

   She is survived by her two daughters, LoAnn (Jeffrey) of Eaton Rapids and Laura (Mason) of St. Johns; son, William (Pamala) of Perry; 6 grandchildren; brother, Mark (Lucille) of Flushing; sister, Byrnece (Clayton) of Clio; and 3 sisters-in-law, Marge of Flint, Mary of Flint, and Frances of Chelsea.

   She is preceded in death by her husband, Robert; and brother.

   Services will be held on July 3, at the Gorsline-Runciman Co. East Chapel, East Lansing, with the Rev. Joseph Spackman officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society of Lansing.

 

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Kenneth L. (Peck) Pember

 

   Kenneth L. (Peck) Pember, 88, of Vermontville died Sept. 13, 1997, at Tendercare of Hastings.

   He was born March 3, 1909, in Vermontville, the son of Albert and Eva (Jarrett) Pember.  He graduated from Vermontville High School in 1928 and from Augabrights Business College in Battle Creek.  He married Josephine Cowell in December 1954 in Angola, Ind.; she died in 1960.  He married June Kunde on Aug. 14, 1961, in Vermontville; she died June 3, 1007.  He farmed all his working life and raised sheep.  He enjoyed fishing, hunting, growing flowers, antiquing, and traveling to Ireland and Alaska.

   Surviving are stepsons Paul (Joyce) Kunde of Jenison, and Henry (Charlotte) Cowell of Vermontville; six step-grandchildren; seven step-great-grandchildren; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Norm and Joyce Noviskey of Hastings; and several nieces and nephews.

   He was preceded in death by his sister, Ilah Leeser; half-sister, Georganna Griffin; and half-brother, Earl Hadden.

   Funeral services were Sept. 16 at the Maple Valley Chapel with the Rev. Jeff Bowman officiating.  Interment was in Woodlawn Cemetery, Vermontville.

   Memorial donations may be made to the Vermontville Boy Scouts.

 

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Donna C. Perrine

 

   Donna C. Perrine, 90, of Olivet and formerly of Lansing, died Sept. 12, 1997.

   She was born at Rives Junction in Jackson County, the daughter of Frank and Mary (Smith) Perrine, and had been an Olivet resident since 1975, coming from Lansing.  She was a retired librarian, having served from 1931-35 in the Utica, N.Y., Public Library, from 1935-43 in the Madison, Wisc., Elementary School Library, and from 1946-72 in the J.W. Sexton High School Library in Lansing, from which she retired.  She had attended the Pilgrim Congregational Church in Lansing, the Olivet Congregational Church and the Onondaga Community Church.

   Surviving are two nieces, Diann Roebuck of Lansing and Trudy Vanaman of El Paso, Texas; and one nephew, Brian Greener of Milwaukee, Wisc.

   Funeral services were Sept. 1 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral  Chapel, with  the Rev.  Clark Hock

 

officiating.  Interment of cremains will be in the Draper Cemetery at Rives Junction.  Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

 

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Jamie D. Peters

 

   Jamie Donald Peters, 27, of Eaton Rapids died Feb. 16, 1997, as the result of leukemia.

   Mr. Peters was born Aug. 16, 1969, in Eaton Rapids, the son of Dean and Carleen (Langtry) Peters.  He was a 1987 graduate of Eaton Rapids High School and graduate of Lansing Community College.  He was employed at Number One Graphics of East Lansing.

   He is survived by his wife, Angela (Wyckoff); his parents, Dean and Carleen Peters of Eaton Rapids; one brother, Ron (Suzanne) Peters of Lansing; one niece, Jenelle; his mother and father-in-law, Don and Carolyn Wyckoff of Eaton Rapids; brother-in-law, Matthew Wyckoff of Eaton Rapids; his grandparents, Scotty and Eileen Langtry of Lakewood, and Richard and Mary Marietta of Eaton Rapids; and several other family and friends, including Gerry (Tammy) Hawkins and namesake, Jamie Nicole.

   Services were Feb. 20 at the First Baptist Church,  Eaton  Rapids.  Arrangements were made

 

 

 

by the Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.  Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, ER.

 

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Mary Peters

 

   Mary Peters, 79, of Eaton Rapids died Feb. 28, 1997, in Charlotte.

   Mrs. Peters was born Aug. 20, 1917, in Mecosta County, the daughter of James and Leah (Campbell) Buchner.

   She is survived by one daughter, Rosemary (Dan) Norton of Eaton Rapids; one son, Tom Peters of Olivet; one daughter-in-law, Janice Peters of Eaton Rapids; nine grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Harold (Earlene) Buchner and Lloyd (Isabell) Buchner all of Lansing; three sisters, Wilma (Lewis) Evans of Bellevue, Idabel (Leon) Smith of Lansing, and Leta (Joe) Fillingham of Texas.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Delmer Peters in 1990 and two sons, Doug Peters in 1996, and LeRoy Peters in 1943.

   It was her wishes that there be no visitation and no funeral service.  Arrangements were made by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Tri-County Office on Aging Meals on Wheels program.

 

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Trina S. Walker Peters

 

   Trina Sue Walker Peters, 29, of Charlotte died May 3, 1997, following a lengthy battle with cancer.

   Ms. Peters was born June 25, 1967, in Lansing, the daughter of Larry and Roxanne (Pruden) Walker.

   She is survived by her parents; one brother, Chad (Carol) Walker; two nephews, Benjamin and Christopher; her grandparents, Jack and Oral Pruden and Leona Walker all of Charlotte.

   Services were May 6 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Charles Moore officiating.  Interment was in the Bosworth Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice.

 

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Dorothy M. Pier

 

   Dorothy M. “Dottie” Pier, 78, of Abilene, Texas, formerly of Charlotte died May 13, 1997, in Abilene, Texas.

   Mrs. Pier was born Feb. 10, 1919, in Marshall, the daughter of Earl and Blanche Stevens.  She graduated from school in Charlotte and attended business college in Chicago, Ill.  She married Walter Pier in Abilene, Kan., on May 15, 1943.  They had lived in Abilene since 1963.  She was a homemaker and attended Zion Lutheran church.

   She is survived by her husband, Walter; three sons, William of Loveland, Ohio, Daniel of Arlington, Texas, and Edward of Buda, Texas; four grandchildren, Kimberely, Steven, Nicholas, and Christopher Pier.

   She was preceded in death by her parents; and one brother, Lester Stevens.

   Services were May 16 at the Zion Lutheran Church, Abilene, Texas, with Dr. Timothy Rosenthal officiating, directed by Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home.  Entombment will be at Elmwood Mausoleum, Abilene, Texas.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 149 N. Willis, Abilene, Texas, 79603.

 

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Hazel J. Pifer

 

   Hazel J. Pifer, 95, of Charlotte died Oct. 8, 1997.

   Mrs. Pifer was born Sept. 1, 1902, in Eaton County, the daughter of George W. and Myrta Mae (Harmon) Hicks.  She was a rural elementary school teacher and music teacher.

   She is survived by her two daughters, Phyllis J. Webb and Janice J. Griffin both of Charlotte; 13 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank; son, Wayne; and 2 grandchildren.

   Services were Oct. 11 at Chester Gospel Church, Charlotte, with the Rev. Lester DeGroot officiating.  Interment was in Gresham Cemetery.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home.

 

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Deloris C. Pinch

 

   Deloris C. Pinch, 67, of Charlotte died June 15, 1997, at Hayes Green Beach Hospital, Charlotte, after a short illness.

   Mrs. Pinch was born in Boyne City, the daughter of Oral and Catherine (Kasbohm) Barber, and had been a Charlotte resident since 1948.  She was employed in the food service department of Charlotte Public School, retiring in 1995 after 25 years of service.

   She is survived by two daughters, Carol Seager and Janis (Jake) VanGelder; one son, James (Lori) of Colorado Springs, Colo.; five grandchildren; one sister, Henrietta (Mitchell) Hansel of Lansing; and numerous nieces and nephews.

   She is preceded in death by her husband, Richard, and one grandson, Chance.

   Services were June 17 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Thomas Ball officiating.  Interment was in the West Windsor Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the family or the charity of one’s choice.

 

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Gertrude E. Powers

 

   Gertrude E. Powers, 84, of Charlotte died Aug. 24, 1997, at the Michigan Capitol Medical Center, Greenlawn Campus after a short illness.

   Mrs. Powers was born in Ahmeek, Keweenaw County, in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the second daughter of John and Edith (Hocking) Hutchens.  She had been a Charlotte resident since 1936.  She had moved with her family in 1919 to Lansing, where she was later employed by Capitol National Bank and Oldsmobile Division of General Motors.  She was a member of the First Congregational Church United Church of Christ and its Blanche Moyer circle and the Charlotte Sunshine Club, and had been an active volunteer in many community activities.  She had also been active in Republican Party Politics where she had served as Campaign Chairperson for Elly Peterson when she was a candidate for the U.S. Senate in 1964.

   She is survived by her husband of 60 years, William; one daughter, Linda (David) Smith of Duck Lake; two sons, John (Peg) Powers of Springfield, Ill., and David (Chrissy) Powers of Charlotte; 12 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; three brothers, Roy (Hope) Hutchens, Robert (Helen) Hutchens and Paul (Carol) Hutchens, all of Lansing; and two sisters, Mildred Harrington of Long Lake and Betty (Pat) Wade of Ludington; and many nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by one sister, Margaret Milner, and two brothers, John Hutchens and Charles Hutchens.

   Services were Aug. 27 at the First Congregational Church, Charlotte, with the Rev. Z. William Colson officiating.  Interment was in the Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.  Arrangements were made by the Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.  Memorial contributions may be made to the First Congregational Church of Charlotte Public Library.

 

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Mable Powers

 

   Mable (Mater) Powers, 87, of Charlotte died June 25, 1997, at the Battle Creek Health System, Community Site, after a short illness.

   Mrs. Powers was born in Nashville, the daughter of Elmer and Effie (Spitler) Mater.  She had been a Charlotte resident since 1958.  She was a 1927 graduate of Nashville High School.  She was a registered nurse, graduating in 1930 from the Bronson School of Nursing, Kalamazoo.  She worked for the American Red Cross in Ann Arbor during the 1930s while her husband attended the University of Michigan Law School.  she was a former member of the Nashville School board, Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church, where she served as president of its United Methodist Women, a member of the Charlotte Country Club, Altruistic Club, Charlotte Women’s Club, and the Charlotte Friends of the Library.

   She is survived by one daughter, Martha (Kenneth) Schimmelpfenneg of Battle Creek; one son, Joseph (Linda) of Ohio; five grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and two sisters-in-law, Gertrude of S.C. and Florence of Marcellus.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Horace; one brother, John; and one sister, Dorothy.

   Services were June 28 at the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.  Interment was in the Lakeview Cemetery, Nashville.  Arrangements were made by the Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Charlotte Public Library.

 

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Royce E. Pugh

 

   Royce (Roy) E. Pugh, 51, of Eaton Rapids died Oct. 31, 1997, of a heart attack.

   Mr. Pugh was born Aug. 7, 1946, Lansing, the son of Leon and Rama (Gray) Pugh.  He graduated in 1964 from Everett High School, Lansing, and was a veteran of the Vietnam War, serving in the Navy Seabee’s.  He was employed by the state of Michigan and retired from the city of Lansing’s Development and Planning Division in 1994, and had been currently employed by H&R Block as a tax preparer.  He was also an assistant building inspector for Aurelius Township.  He was a member of the Robbins United Methodist Church, Eaton Rapids, and had been a member of the Miller Road Bible Church, Lansing.  He was a volunteer coordinator with the American Red Cross, Tri-County Meals on Wheels, and was very active in the Boy Scouts.

   He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Terri; one daughter, Michelle (Chris) Rockhold of Leslie; two sons, Shannon Pugh and Chris Pugh, both of Eaton Rapids; one sister, Ruth A. Pugh of Lansing; one niece, Kiersten Pugh of Lansing; several aunts, uncles, and cousins; and his very special extended family, Tom and Billie Hodson of Lansing.

   He was preceded in death by one daughter, Amy, and his parents.

   Services were Nov. 4 at Robbins United Methodist Church with the Pastor Marty Debow officiating.  Interment was in the North Cemetery, Lansing.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Boy Scouts of America or the American Red Cross.

 

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Virginia V. Pulliam

 

   Virginia V. Pulliam, 70, of Bellevue died March 12, 1997, at the Battle Creek Health System.

   Mrs. Pulliam was born May 23, 1926, in Detroit, the daughter of Wallenty and Phillomena Sieczkowski.  She married Richard Pulliam Sr. Dec. 15, 1945, in Detroit.  She was a homemaker, and active in the Disabled American Veterans’ Auxiliary.

   She is survived by one daughter, Catherine (Ronald) Anderson of Comstock Park; one son, Richard (Shelley) of Bellevue; one grandson, Eric Anderson; and three brothers, Theodore Sieczkowski of Schevenus, N.Y., valentine Sieczkowski of Warren, Ohio, and Thomas Sieczkowski of Port St. Lucia, Fla.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard in July 1995.

   Services were March 14 at Fort Custer National Cemetery.  Arrangements were made by the Shaw Funeral Home, Lehman Chapel, Bellevue.

 

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Nellie M. Ramsey

 

   Nellie Marie Ramsey, 79, of Potterville died March 21, 1997.

   Mrs. Ramsey was born Nov. 13, 1917, in Wabash, Ind., the daughter of John and Mabel (Brown) Weck.  She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Charlotte and its Mary Murray Circle.

   She is survived by three daughters, Linda (John) Jane of Potterville, Charlotte (Raymond) Carmony of Nashville, and Phyllis (Larry) Belcher of Vermontville; two sons, Everett Eldridge of Sacramento, Calif., and Ernest (JoAnn) Ramsey of Charlotte; one step-daughter, Iva Lee (Bill) Robison of Holt; 10 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; five sisters, Gladys Taylor, Elizabeth Taylor, Mary Reed, Dorothy Dickinson, and Adella Scott; and five brothers, John Weck, Robert Weck, Charles Weck, Richard Weck, and Albert Weck.

   She was preceded in death by her first husband, Clarence Eldridge in 1948; her second husband, Eddie Ramsey in 1977; and two grandsons, Jason and John.

   Services were march 25 at the First Baptist Church, Charlotte, with the Rev. Charles Moore officiating.  Interment was in the Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, Charlotte, or American Diabetes Association.

 

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Wells Henry Rauser

 

   Wells H. Rauser, 83, of Charlotte died June 27, 1997, in Highlands Park, Ill.

   Mr. Rauser was born in Charlotte, the son of Henry and Leara (Wells) Rauser.  He was a member and senior warden of St. John’s Episcopal Church, Charlotte.  He had also been a member of the Charlotte Rotary Club for over 30 years.  He was a co-owner and publisher of the Charlotte Republican Tribune, retiring in 1973.  He had been a correspondent for the Lansing State Journal, Battle Creek Inquirer, Jackson Citizen Patriot, Grand Rapids Press, Detroit Free Press, Detroit News, Kalamazoo Gazette, Associated Press, and United Press International for 35 years.  He was a 50-year member of the Charlotte County Club, served on the Charlotte City Council in the early 1950s, and was a member of the Charlotte Library and the Charlotte Cemetery boards for many years.

   He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Joyce (Moore) Rauser; one daughter, Wendy (Mike) of Wash.; one son, Chris (Christine) Rauser of Illinois; four grandchildren; and one brother, Robert.

   Services were July 2 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.  Interment was in the Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

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Donald M. Raymond

 

   Donald M. Raymond, 86, of Union City died Oct. 28, 1997, at the Battle Creek Health System after a short illness.

   Mr. Raymond was born May 24, 1911, in Eaton County, the son of Earl and Maud May (Hatch) Raymond.  He married Dorothy Bauer on April 14, 1934.  He graduated from Charlotte High School in 1931.  He and his wife operated Circle Café in Charlotte until 1941.  Mr. Raymond had many jobs between the 40’s and 70’s.  He was a member of Our Lady of Fatima parish in Union City.

   He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Raymond of Union City; two sons, Russel Charles Raymond of Union City and Darrel Raymond of St. Louis, Mo.; two grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and a brother, John Raymond.

   He is preceded in death by two sisters and one brother.

   Services were Oct. 31 at the Our Lady of Fatima, Union City, with the Rev. Fr. Robert Creagan officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made out to the Our Lady of Fatima Music Fund.

 

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Mary E. Rearick

 

   Mary E. Rearick, 90, of Charlotte died Sept. 28, 1997 at the Eaton County Medical Care Facility, Charlotte, after a long illness.

   Mrs. Rearick was born Jan. 4, 1907, in Millstone, W. Va., the daughter of James A. and Margaret (Moore) Shafer.  She has been a Charlotte resident for four years.

   Services were Oct. 2 at the Hopkins-Lawver Funeral in Akron, Ohio.  Burial was in Hillsdale Memorial Park  in  Akron.   A   memorial   service

 

 

will be Oct. 8 at the Eaton County Medical Care Facility, Charlotte, with the Rev. George Fleming.  Arrangements were made by Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

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Elizabeth L. Rebhan

 

   Elizabeth L. Rebhan, 91, of Eaton Rapids died June 11, 1997, in Eaton Rapids.

   Mrs. Rebhan was born on Jan. 13, 1906, in Leslie, the daughter of Fredrick G. and Henrietta (Fuhrmann) Rebhan.

   She is survived by her niece, Norma; 3 nephews, Gary, Ronald (Joan), and William (Marge); 3 grand nephews, Martin (Diane), Gary (Michelle), and David; 2 grand nieces, Sandy (Tim) and Debbie; several great grand nephews; great grand nieces; and life long friend, Louisa Hoffman.

   Services were held on June 14.  Arrangements were done by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.

 

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Michael J. Reid

 

   Michael James Reid, 28, of Eaton Rapids died May 27, 1997.

   Mr. Reid was born Feb. 7, 1969, in Lansing, the son of Michael and Kathi (Forman) Reid.  He was a recycling and refuse handler for Baldwin Brothers Material Handling.  He married Rebecca VanVleet in 1993.  He is survived by his wife, Rebecca; one son, Thomas; his mother, Kathi (Dennis) Swan; his father, Michael (Willodean) Reid of Tennessee; one sister, Angela Reid of Eaton Rapids; nieces and nephew, Shawna and Donald; half brother, Mathew Reid of Tennessee; mother and father-in-law, Shirley and Gerald VanVleet of Charlotte; brother-in-law, Jeremy VanVleet of Coldwater, niece and nephew, Samantha and Jake Smith; grandfather, Lawton Swan of Eaton Rapids; and great-grandfather, Bennie Townsend of Tennessee.

   Services were May 30 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Geri Litchfield officiating.  Interment was in the Perry Cemetery, Eaton County.

 

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Evelyn Amanda Reist

 

   Evelyn Amanda Reist, 71, of Charlotte died July 14, 1997.

   Evelyn was born Dec. 11, 1925, in Lansing, the daughter of Samuel and Lillian Pearl (Forbes) Reist.  She worked in Title Revue for the Secretary of State and was a member of the First Congregational Church in Charlotte.

   She is survived by her nephew, Howard (Christine) Reist of Charlotte; niece, Charlene Mooney of Kansas; uncle, Leslie (Pat) Forbes of Holt; aunt, Mildred Pekrul of Ironwood; cousins, Marlene (Ron) Furman of North Carolina; four great nephews; and five second cousins.

   Funeral services were on July 16 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Rev. Peter R. K. Brenner officiating.  Interment will be in Deepdale Cemetery, Lansing.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.  Memorial contributions may be made to the First Congregational Church Bell Choir.

 

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Naomi I. Reynolds

 

   Naomi I. Reynolds, 77, of Charlotte died Dec. 11, 1997.

   Mrs. Reynolds was born February 7, 1920, in Charlotte, the daughter of Leo and Martha (Baker) Goodrich.  She married Wells A Reynolds Jan. 4, 1940.  She was an Eaton County 4-H Leader for the Millerburg sewing group.

   She is survived by her daughter, Karen (Milo) Wright of Charlotte; daughter-in-law, Helen Cleeves of Charlotte; eight grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandson; two sister-in-laws, Geneva Leonard of Eagle and Arvilla Hacker of Trufant.

   She is preceded in death by her husband, Wells; son, Gerald’ daughter, Pamela; and granddaughter, Sally.

   Services were Dec. 15 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Joseph Haney officiating.  Interment was in Gresham Cemetery, Eaton County.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton County Home Health Care Nurses.

 

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Howard J. Richter

 

   Howard J. Richter, 91, of Grand Ledge, formerly of Lake Odessa, died Oct. 4, 1997, at Moore’s Adult Foster Care Home, Charlotte.

   Mr. Richter was born Nov. 27, 1905, in Dorr, the son of Joseph and Jessie (Brown) Richter.  He was a retired General Motor’s employee and life member of the Lake Odessa Masonic Lodge.

   He is survived by his wife, Mildred; one daughter, Muriel (Don) Shinaver of Fenwick; one son, John (Carol) Richter of Utica; nine grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; two stepdaughters, Betty (Harold) Buchholz of Grand Ledge and Barbara (Neal) Riggs of Grand Haven; five step-grandchildren; 15 step-great-grandchildren; and two half sisters, Mildred Miller of White Cloud and Marcella Swifink of Grand Rapids.

   Services were Oct. 6 at the Barker-Leik Funeral Home, Mulliken, with the Rev. Frank Lyman officiating.  Masonic graveside services followed at the Lakeside Cemetery, Lake Odessa.

 

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Orval Ripley

 

   Orval “Tom” Ripley, 77, of Marshall, died Sept. 11, 1997, at the Marshall Manor Nursing Home after a long illness.

   Mr. Ripley was born in Walton Township, Eaton County, the son of Harry and Olive Carrie Mae (Anderson) Ripley.  He was a life long Lee Township resident.  He had worked at the Air Way Mfg. Co., Olivet, G. O. Lewis Construction Co. and DeBruin Produce Farms, as well as being a farmer.

   He is survived by his son, Walter Ripley of Marshall; 3 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; a brother, Oral Ripley of Marshall; and 3 sisters, Pauline Ordiway of Kingsley, Joliet Sebastian of Charlotte, and Julia Cox of Albion.

   He is preceded in death by his daughter, Thelma M. Hatton; his parents; 4 sisters, Georgia Pierce, Virginia Long, Dorothy Aumick, and Maxine Goodnoe; 2 brothers, Arlo Ripley and Aaron Ripley.

   Services and interment were Sept. 15 at the Lee Center Cemetery, Lee Township, with the Rev. Valerie Hill officiating.  Arrangements were made by Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

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Lucy E. Rise

 

   Lucy E. Rise, 96, of Sunfield died April 11, 1997.

   Mrs. Rise was born Jan. 2, 1901, in Sunfield, the daughter of Jacob and Frances Hoover, and was the oldest of seven children.  She married Ralph Rise in 1918.  She was a devoted Christian and a member of the Sunfield United Methodist Church.

   She is survived by her sister, Virginia Roberts of Lake Odessa; one son, Zack; four grandsons, Jack Estep of Saranac, Douglas Rise of Bay City, Michael Rise of Sunfield and Brian Rise of Midland; four granddaughters, Janice Bingaman of Syracuse, N.Y., Joanne Hodges of Midland, Bonnie Foltz of Sunfield and Carla Smith of Nashville; 17 great-grandchildren; and 13 great-great-grandchildren.

   She was preceded in death by one son, Neil; daughter, Louise; husband, Ralph; one brother, and five sisters.

   Services were April 14 at the Rosier Funeral Home, Mapes-Fisher Chapel, Sunfield.  Interment was in the Dale Cemetery, Beaverton.

 

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Doris P. Roach

 

   Doris P. Roach, 83, formerly of Onondaga, died June 7, 1997, after a 10-year battle with leukemia.

   Mrs. Roach was born Feb. 25, 1914, the daughter of Earl and Mary Short of Morrice.  She worked at the Goodyear Rubber and Tire Co. of Jackson during World War II and was a retired licensed practical nurse from Lansing General Hospital.

   She is survived by one daughter, Delores (Rodger) Burnett of Mesick; three sons, Roger Steele of Georgia, James (Marilyn Joan) Steele of Charlotte, and Thomas (Sheila) Roach of Leslie; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; two sisters, Lenore (Arthur) Reed of Jackson and Florance (Floyd) Hoose of Perry.

   Services were June 10 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Morrice, with Fr. Matthew Fedewa officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Leukemia or Diabetes associations.

 

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Kenneth P. Robinson Sr.

 

   Kenneth Paul Robinson Sr., 60, of Potterville died March 22, 1997.

   Mr. Robinson was born Dec. 17, 1936, in Browning, Mo., the son of Archie and Agnes Robison.  He was retired from B.O.C. in Lansing.  He was a veteran of the Air Force.  He was the mayor of Potterville since January 1995, and had served on the council since August 1981.  He was a long-time active member of the Potterville Lions Club.

   He is survived by his wife, Ruth; two sons, Thomas (Donna) Robinson of Charlotte and Ken Robinson Jr. of Potterville; one daughter, Mary (Jamie Graf) Robinson of Hesperia, Calif.; six grandchildren, Jennifer, Jessica, Jacob, Gracie, Kaitlyn and Caleb; three brothers, John, Don, and Jim Robison; and two sisters, Carol Billings and Ruth Cole.

   He was preceded in death by his mother, father, and a brother, Roscoe.

   A memorial service is planned for Saturday, April 5, at 10:30 a.m., with a luncheon following, at the Potterville United Methodist Church, Potterville, with the Rev. Paul Bailey officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Potterville Lions or Lioness Club.

 

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Alice M. Rochester

 

   Alice M. Rochester, 86, of Eaton Rapids, died April 23, 1997, in Charlotte.

   Mrs. Rochester was born March 8, 1911, in Manteno, Ill., the daughter of Frank and Agnes (Cadieux) Paquette.

   She is survived by two daughters, Eliose Bainbridge of Holt and Loreen (Warren) Bertram of Lansing; three sons, Robert (Bertha) of Yellville, Ark., and Merle (Daisy) and Wilson (Marilyn), both of Eaton Rapids; 32 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; one sister-in-law, Gladys Burns of Charlotte; and several cousins.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Arlo, in 1991.

   Services were April 26 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Charles Herrick officiating.  Interment was in the Oakwood Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

 

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M. Douglas Rockwood

 

   M. Douglas Rockwood, 75, lifelong resident of Eaton Rapids, died Aug. 25, 1997, as a Lansing hospital.

   Mr. Rockwood was born June 14, 1922, in Hamlin Township, Eaton County, the son of Clare and Flossie (Colestock) Rockwood.  Doug was an Army Veteran of World War II and was a retired employee of General Motors in Lansing.  He was a member of the First United Methodist Church, Eaton Rapids.  Mr. Rockwood was an active member of the F&AM Lodge #63 and the O.E.S. Lodge #241 both of Eaton Rapids.  A 50-year member of the American Legion Post #15, Eaton Rapids.  He served in all offices of the Post.  He was also a member of many other clubs, where he held other positions.  Mr. Rockwood was instrumental in forming and implementing the Legion and V.F.W. Ritual Teams.

   He is survived by his three children, Steven (Christine D.) Rockwood of Harper Woods, Christine A. (Timothy) Maher of Eaton Rapids, and Lori S. Rockwood of Holt; special friend, Bob Cross of Holt; 3 grandsons, stepmother, Letha (Merle) Knickerbocker of Eaton Rapids; aunt, Lucille Colestock of Eaton Rapids; and several cousins.

   He is preceded in death by his wife, Vinita; and grandson, Matthew Maher.

   Services were Aug. 28 at the First United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Thomas Evans officiating.  A military graveside service was provided by both the American Legion and the V.F.W. Posts at the Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to either the Eaton Rapids Community Hospital, the First United Methodist Church, or the American Lung Association of Michigan.

 

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Anita Rodebaugh

 

   Anita Rodebaugh, 59, of Potterville died April 15, 1997.

   Mrs. Rodebaugh was born May 25, 1937, in Lansing, the daughter of Otto and Ethel (Huffman) Pifer.  She worked on carton assembly at Owens-Illinois in Charlotte for 25 years, until her retirement in 1992.

   She is survived by her husband, Gerald; one daughter, Desiree Hayes of Olivet; one son, Douglas (Jodi) Rodebaugh of Lansing; seven grandchildren, three brothers, Leslie (Dorothy) Pifer of Saranac, Ira “Bud” (Loretta) Pifer of Alabama and Larry (Paula) Pifer of Delton; and one sister, Celora “Tootie” (Mike) Shilling of Charlotte.

   Services were April 19 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with Kathryn Baughman officiating.  Interment was in the Chapel Hill Cemetery, Lansing.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Lansing Hospice.

 

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Madonna J. Rolfe

 

   Madonna J. Rolfe, 70, of Charlotte died Oct. 9, 1997, in Ocala, Fla.

   Mrs. Rolfe was born June 1, 1927, in Ingham County, the daughter of Clifford Ernest and Carrie Melinda Stanley.  She was a cook in various local restaurants, including The Town House, Jim’s, The Coffee Cup and Mom’s.

   She is survived by her three daughters, Jerri Mastren of Long Beach, Miss., Laura Howe of Charlotte, and Linda Rolfe of Ocala, Fla.; 8 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Mary Esther Moore of Anchorage, Alaska and Phyllis Clapper of Lakeland, Fla.

   She is preceded in death by her husband, Harry Arthur Rolfe.

   Services were Oct. 12 in Ocala, Fla.

 

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Benjamin E. Ruhf

 

   Benjamin E. “Ben” Ruhf, 85, of Lansing died March 20, 1997.

   Mr. Ruhf was born Nov. 13, 1911, in Eaton County, and had been a lifelong resident of Lansing.  He worked for Oldsmobile for 38 years, retiring in 1972.

   He is survived by one daughter, Dawn (Richard) Brochu of Lansing; two grandchildren, Mark (Lori) Brochu and Michele (Todd) Gill, both of Potterville; three great-grandchildren, Stephanie and Justin Gill and Stephanie Perdue; and two sisters, Aileen Gokey of Lansing and Maude McCullum of West Branch.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Pauline in 1989.

   Private services were held with the Rev. Rae Franke of Trinity United Methodist Church.  Arrangements were made by Estes-Leadley.  Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association.

 

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Stuart John Rule

 

   Stuart John Rule, 78, of Charlotte died June 18, 1997.

   Mr. Rule was born Nov. 30, 1918, in Highland Park, the son of Arthur and Winifred (Rogers) Rule.  He worked as a life insurance agent most of his life.  He was former city clerk for the city of Eaton Rapids, member of Charlotte VFW 2406, member of FOE Aerie 3552, and former employee of the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund.

   He is survived by daughters, JoAyn Dunlap of Indianapolis, Susan B. (Steven) Greskowiak of Haslett, Candace K. (Dennis) McMaster of Eaton Rapids; sons, W. Keith, Jack E. and Michael S., all of Colorado; 10 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; sisters, Bonnie Provencher and Phyllis (Ivan) Atkinson, of Florida; brother, James (Phyllis) Rule of Grand Blanc.

   Funeral services will be Monday, June 23, at 11:30 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home with George Howe officiating.

   Interment will be in Ft. Custer National Cemetery, Battle Creek.

   Visitation will be Sunday, June 22, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

 

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Robert E. Rumfield

 

   Robert Edwin Rumfield, 66, died Jan. 19, 1997, at his resident in Ionia County.

   Mr. Rumfield was born March 9, 1930, in Hastings, the son of Verd and Anna (Mallory) Rumfield Sr.  He was a lifelong Sunfield resident and farmer, retiring from Oldsmobile in 1988 as a power sweeper operator after 23 years of service.  He received the FFA’s American Farmer Award, was a member of the American agriculture movement, and drove school bus for Sunfield and Lakewood schools.

   He is survived by two daughters, Robin Brace and Susan (Mike) Roper; one son, Tim (Julie); seven grandchildren, Eric and Aaron Brace, Michelle and Leanna Roper; and Jeff, Nick, and Danny Rumfield; former son-in-law, Keith Brace; one sister, Elizabeth (William) Hunt; and one brother, Verd (Sally) Rumfield Jr.  He was formerly married to Joan (Jones) Austin.

   He was preceded in death by both his parents and one daughter, Denise Marie Rumfield.

   Services were Jan. 22 at the Rosier Funeral Home, Mapes-Fisher Chapel, Sunfield.  Interment was in the Welch Cemetery, Sunfield.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Ionia Hospice, SPY’s, or American Cancer Society.

 

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John H. Rundle

 

   John H. Rundle, 94, of Stuart, Fla. died Dec. 18, 1997, at his home.

   Mr. Rundle was a native of Calhoun County, he lived in Stuart for 32 years.  Before moving to Florida, he owned and operated a radio business in Lansing.  He often spent his summers in the Charlotte area.  He was a member of Jehovah Witnesses Kingdom Hall in Stuart.

   He is survived by four daughters, Audrey R. Jones of Stuart, Fla., G. Shirley St. Clair of Van Nuys, Calif., Jean S. McPeck and Avonne Maran Dosey both of Lansing; one brother, Alba E. Rundle; one sister, Marjorie Steves, both of Onsted; nine grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; and nine great-great-grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Doris Rundle; and son, H. James Rundle.

   Memorial contributions may be made to your local hospice.

 

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Floyd D. Rush, Jr.

 

   Floyd (Wayne) D. Rush, Jr., 70, of Charlotte died Aug. 25, 1997.

   Mr. Rush was born Oct. 12, 1926, in Lansing, the son of Floyd D., Sr. and Clara (Adams) Rush.  He worked as a forklift repair operator for Meijer Thrifty Acres, retiring in 1991.  He was a member of the VFW Maple City Post 2406; Kalamo Lodge #327 F&AM; member of the Faith Bible Church of Lake Odessa.  Mr. Rush served with the U.S. Navy during the Korean conflict.  He enjoyed amateur radio and woodworking.

   He is survived he his wife, Patricia; 3 sons, David (Whynell) Rush of Florida, Terry (Judy) Rush of Ionia, and Charles Wright of Colorado; 6 daughters, Laura Laurich of California, Sue Rush of Lake Odessa, Sandy (Robin) Reed and Linda (Vernie) Nichols both of Charlotte, Lucille (Donald) Shick of Arizona, and Nanette (Chuck) Stockes of Arkansas; 29 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; 3 sisters, Beatrice Fuller, Beverly Bennett, and Delores (Bob) McGee; mother, Clara Rush of Charlotte.

   He is preceded in death by two sons and two grandsons.

   Services were Aug. 25 at Faith Bible Church, Lake Odessa, with Pastor Shane Lewis officiating.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Assoc., or the Mid-Michigan Dialysis Center.

 

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Derek D. Sadler

 

   Derek D. Sadler, 19, of Olivet died Nov. 24, 1997, as the result of an automobile accident.

   Mr. Sadler was born Oct. 4, 1978, in Lansing, the son of Paul and Sharon (Colbath) Sadler.  He worked as a loader for Bill Knapp’s Warehouse in Battle Creek.  He attended the Nashville Baptist Church and attended Maple Valley Schools.

   He is survived by his father, Paul (Linda) of Olivet; his mother, Sharon (Rodger Craft) Sadler of Charlotte; one sister, Paula Sadler; and his grandmothers, Bernice Colbath of Mason and Betty Sadler of Ashley.

 

 

 

 

   Services were Nov. 28 at the Nashville Baptist Church with the Rev. Lester DeGroot officiating.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

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Elaine W. Sage

 

   Elaine W. Sage, 81, of Eaton Rapids died May 30, 1997, at her residence.

   Mrs. Sage was born Oct. 13, 1915, in Lansing, the daughter of Stewart and Rhea (Klatt) Byle.  She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Eaton Rapids, the Order of the Eastern Star Lodge #241 Eaton Rapids, Duck Lake Country Club, Lansing Elks, a volunteer for the Eaton Community Hospice and an active member of the Eaton Rapids Senior Citizens where she was on the advisory council board, craft committee and a member of the “Sit and Be Fit” group.

   She is survived by two sons, Brad (Mary) Sage of Tamarac, Fla., and Jeff (Jacque) Sage of Charlotte; one daughter, Rhea (Mike) Barningham of Castle Rock, Colo.; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Ivan “Sam” Sage in 1988.

   Services were June 2 at the Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Tom Evans officiating.  Interment was in the Deepdale Memorial Park, Lansing.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Rapids First United Methodist Church or the Eaton Rapids Senior Citizens.

 

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Gerald A. Salisbury

 

   Rev. Gerald A. “Jerry” Salisbury, 84, of Eaton Rapids died March 15, 1997, in Eaton Rapids.

   Rev. Salisbury was born Jan. 9, 1913, in Lebanon Township, Clinton County, the son of Willis and Effie May (Falor) Salisbury.  He was a graduate of Albion College Class of 1940 and attended Garrett Theological Seminary.  He was a pastoral member of the West Michigan Conference of the United Methodist Church serving in Marengo, Rick Creek, Lyon Lake, Newaygo/Oak Grove, the Springport Larger Parish including Lee Center, Pope, Charlesworth and Griffith.  He also served Center Eaton/Gresham, Brookfield, Bath/Chapel Hill, Grovenburg/Robbins, Mulliken, and Vermontville/Gresham.

   He retired as an active pastor in 1978.  Rev. Salisbury was a charter member and treasurer/manager of the Wesley Credit Union.  He received the United Methodist Church Conference Torch Award for 65 years of service to Scouting and Youth.  He was a member of the Rotary Club for 35 years and a founding member of the Springport Lions Club.  He was a member and officer of the Eaton Rapids Conservation Club for many years and served as director of the Michigan United Conservation Clubs.  He was a life member of the Eaton Rapids Masonic Lodge #63 F&AM.

   He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Maxine; one daughter, Mary Ann (Bob) Osborn of Eaton Rapids; four sons, Stephen (Joan) of Muskegon, Michael (Rebecca) of Eaton Rapids, David (Debra) of Eaton Rapids; 13 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; two brothers, Howard (Ellen) of Bannister, and Lloyd (Louise) of St. Johns; one sister, Bonna (Richard) Davidson of Dryden; and several nieces and nephews.

   He was preceded in death by his brother, Gordon; five sisters, Wilma Wright, Joan Devereaux, Donna White, Martha Salisbury and June Salisbury; grandson, Lucas Osborn; and granddaughter, Emily Salisbury.

   Masonic memorial services were March 17 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.  Funeral services were March 18 at the Eaton Rapids First United Methodist Church, Eaton Rapids, with Pastors Tom Evans and Dr. David Evans officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the United Methodist Church Conference Camp Endowment Fund.

 

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Viola F. Sampsel

 

   Viola F. Sampsel, 74, of Charlotte died Feb. 19, 1997.

   Mrs. Sampsel was born March 31, 1922, in Kalamo Township, the daughter of Arthur and Kathleen (Paine) Hall.  She had been an inspector for Nash-Kelvinator.  She was a member of the South Kalamo Church and former member of the Charlotte Assembly of God.

   She is survived by two daughters, Patsy (Larry) Hynes of Vermontville and Suzanne (Larry) Thompson of Phoenix, Ariz.; two sons, Dennis (Susan) Lea of Traverse City and Max (Nancy) Sampsel of Charlotte; 11 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; one sister, Edith (LaVern) Enquist of Lake; one sister-in-law, Sophie Hall of Charlotte; and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd in 1983; one brother, Wayne Hall in 1996; and her great-grandson, Corey Hynes.

   Services were Feb. 22 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Randy Smith officiating.  Interment was in the Kalamo Township Cemetery.

 

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Janet Sanders

 

   Janet Sanders, 58, of Eaton Rapids, died Dec. 21, 1996.

   Janet was born Sept. 6, 1938, in Charlotte.  She was a member of the South Cochran Church of God.

   She is survived by her husband, James E. Sanders; son, James M. Sanders of Eaton Rapids; and sister, Joyce (Robert) Alling of Charlotte.  She is also survived by her adopted family, Martin, Lee and Laura Owen, Rob, Tonya, and Bobby Insko; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

   She was preceded in death by her two children, Jack and Jodie Sanders; her parents, Jack and Helen; and a brother, Thomas R. Beals.

   Services were Dec. 24 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Rich Mitterling officiating.  Interment will be in Springport Cemetery in Springport, Michigan.

   If desired, fund donation envelopes are available at Pray Funeral Home.

 

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Marjorie Sanderson

 

   Marjorie Sanderson, 77, of Charlotte, died Aug. 17, 1997.

   Ms. Sanderson was born Nov. 19, 1919, in St. Charles and had worked for Hayes Green Beach Hospital in Charlotte as a licensed practical nurse for 24 years until retiring in 1981.

   She is survived by one sister, Dorothy (Richard) Stegenga of Charlotte; one brother, Ralph (June) Sanderson of Cave City, Ore.; and many nieces and nephews.

   Services were Aug. 20 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Duane Royston officiating.  Interment was in St. Charles Riverside Cemetery, St. Charles.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Charlotte Church of the Nazarene or American Cancer Society.  Envelopes are available at the funeral home.

 

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Marcella F. Saums

 

   Marcella Feller Saums, 75, of Roseville, Minn., died Aug. 5, 1997.

   Mrs. Saums was born Aug. 9, 1919, the first child of Joseph and Martha Feller of Escanaba.  She attended Franklin Grade School in Escanaba, Escanaba Junior High School, and graduated in 1937 from Escanaba High School.  She received further education at Badger Business College in Green Bay, Wis., and was employed by the Farmer’s Home Administration, Escanaba, and Social Security Administration, in both Escanaba and Minneapolis, Minn.  She married Max Saums in 1940 in Escanaba.  She retired from the SSA in Minneapolis in December 1978.

   She is survived by her husband, Max (formerly of Charlotte and Escanaba); one son, Ronald of Columbia, MO.; two granddaughters, Kerry McDonald of Columbia and Molly Sharp of Owatonna, Minn.; two great-granddaughters, Kaitlyn and Claire McDonald of Columbia; one brother, Donald Feller of Escanaba; and several nieces and nephews.

   Memorial services were held Aug. 9 at the Roseville Memorial Chapel, 2245 N. Hamline Ave., Roseville.

   Memorial contributions may be donated to the American Red Cross for cancer research.

 

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George A. Schad

 

   George Anthony Schad, 88, of Eaton Rapids died Jan. 11, 1997, at his residence.

   Mr. Schad was born April 18, 1908, in Mansfield, Ohio.  He moved to Eaton Rapids from the Detroit area in the late 1920’s to work at Horner Woolen Mills.  He met and married his wife, Corrine Palmer, in 1932, the same year Tony opened Tony’s Radio and Electric in Eaton Rapids.  He had worked at the VFW National Home in Eaton Rapids, and retired from the Ingham Medical Hospital’s maintenance department at the age of 80.  He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Eaton Rapids, a life member and Honorary Tyler of the F&AM Lodge #63, and a member of the DeWitt Clinton Consistory of Grand Rapids.

   He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Corrine; two sons, Charles of Ionia, and Ronald (Pam) of Flint; one daughter, Wendy (Danny) Hector of Eaton Rapids; five grandchildren, Jamie Hector, Kim Hector, Tracie Hector, Stacey Bradley, Toni (Steve) Bolin, and Bruce Koch; two great-grandchildren, Amanda and Zack Bradley; three sisters, Theresa, Betty, and Ann; and several nieces and nephews.

   Services were Jan. 15 at the First United Methodist Church, Eaton Rapids, with Pastor Tom Evans officiating.  Masonic memorial services were Jan. 14 at the Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.  Interment was in the Roseville Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church, the F&AM Lodge #63, or the Alzheimer’s Association.  Envelopes are available at the funeral home.

 

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Ira W. Scott Jr.

 

   Ira Warren “Scotty” Scott Jr., 70, of Eaton Rapids died Aug. 3, 1997, in Eaton Rapids.

   Mr. Scott was born Jan. 30, 1927, in Battle Creek, the son of Ira and Myrtle (Huffman) Scott.  He spent most of his life in and around Eaton Rapids and was a World War II veteran, having served as a paratrooper.  He worked several different jobs, including those at Michigan State University and Trimble Oil Co., and was also self-employed as a bricklayer.

   He is survived by one son, Tom (Linda) of Eaton Rapids; one daughter, Deborah Lord of Charlotte; four grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; three brothers, James (Saundra) and Gerald (Sandra), both of Eaton Rapids, and Edward (Gretchum) of Fountain; four sisters, Marilyn (Leo) Kinyon, Phyllis (Hap) Love, Beverly (David) Miller, all of Eaton Rapids, and Ruth Ann Wilbur of Fountain; one sister-in-law, Linda Scott of Eaton Rapids; and many nieces and nephews.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Madeline (Redfield); one daughter, Kim; his parents; one brother, Robert; and one nephew, Randy Kinyon.

   Services were Aug. 7 at the Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Sharon Wozencraft officiating.

 

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Woodrow “Woody” Scheidt

 

   Woodrow “Woody” Scheidt, 80, of Eaton Rapids died April 28, 1997, after a lengthy battle with emphysema.

   Mr. Scheidt was born Sept. 24, 1916, in Lake Odessa, the son of Glendon and Gertrude (Rubedeaux) Scheidt.  He began his musical education at age five on soprano saxophone.  He first played in public standing on a box to reach the microphone.  Eventually, he joined his father’s orchestra, playing alto and tenor saxophones and clarinet.  He learned his lifetime vacation in hardware, plumbing and heating at his grandfather’s business in Lake Odessa.

   He graduated from Lake Odessa High School in 1935 where he participated in all sports and band.  He was a salesman for Schaberg-Dietrich, owned and operated “Woody’s Hardware” on South Washington, was a manager at Builder’s Plumbing Supply and a manager at Hedlund Plumbing in Lansing prior to retirement.  He was a charter member of Local 303 Musicians’ Union.  He played in several prominent jazz bands in the Lansing area, Fort Custer during WWII and Lansing Country Clubs.  He was a member of the First Methodist Church in Eaton Rapids.

   He is survived by his wife, Elaine; one son, James (Barbara) of Santa Paula, Calif.; two daughters, Sally (Dennis) Churchill of Lansing and Susan (Jack) Backofen of Eaton Rapids; grandchildren, Catherine, Christina and Jared (Melanie) Churchill, Lt. Jeffrey Scheidt and fiancée Carrie Turner, Jeanine (Michael) Hollebrands, and Jessica and Jason Backofen; great-grandchildren, Naser and Jordanne AbuDalboh and Alicia LePage; two brothers, Winston (Trudy) of Safety Harbor, Fla., and Wendell (Loraine) of Ionia; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

   Services were May 2 at the First United Methodist Church, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Thomas Evans officiating.  Arrangements were made by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Playground of Dreams, First United Methodist Day Care Center or Eaton Community Hospice.

 

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Betty J. Schrum

 

   Betty Jane Schrum, 70, of Charlotte died June 5, 1997.

   Mrs. Schrum was born on May 20, 1927, in Oil City, Penn., the daughter of William and Pearl (Lockhart) Aaron.  She was a foreman at Owens-Brockway for 27 years before retiring in 1992.  She was a member of the West Carmel Congregational Church and its Ladies Circle.

   She is survived by her husband, Howard; two sons, Daniel and Rick; two brothers, William and James; two sisters, Ellen and Dorothy; one sister-in-law, Dorothy; one step-sister, Jean; and four grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her brother, Richard.

   Services were June 9 at the Pray Funeral Home with Rev. Darwin Kuhl officiating.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Ladies Circle of West Carmel Congregational Church or to the church.

 

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Freda A. Sebastian

 

   Freda Alice Sebastian, 76, of Vermontville died April 26, 1997, at Hayes Green Beach Hospital, Charlotte.

   Mrs. Sebastian was born Oct. 20, 1920, in Boston Township, Ionia County, the daughter of Chris and Mabel (Heator) Fahrni Jr.  She graduated from Clarksville High School and married Julius “Joe” Sebastian on Feb. 23, 1946 in Ionia.  He died Aug. 18, 1995.  She farmed with her husband in Charlotte and Vermontville.  She belonged to the Vermontville Garden Club, the Club 50 Senior Citizens Group, the Michigan Bear Hunter’s Association and the Lake Odessa VFW Ladies Auxiliary #4461.

   She is survived by one son, Roy (Linda) Sebastian of Nashville; two daughters, Suzanne (Randy) Martin of Perry and Lois (Marvin) Stewart of Lansing; two grandchildren, Jeffrey and Glen Sebastian; three great-grandchildren, Robbie, Justice and Hunter Sebastian; one sister, Beulah Blough; and several nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Joe; four brothers, Stanley, Gerald, Wayne and Chris; and one sister, Leatha.

   Services were April 29 at the Maple Valley Chapel-Genther Funeral Home, Nashville, with the Rev. Jeff Bowman officiating.  Interment was in the Woodlawn Cemetery, Vermontville.

 

 

 

 

   Memorial contributions may be made to D.A.V. of Michigan, Club 50 Group, or Woodlawn Cemetery Association.

 

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Donald Graham Sebolt

 

   Donald Graham Sebolt, 81, died June 17 at Trillium Hospital in Albion.

   He was born July 4, 1915, in Clarence Township, Mich., the son of Almon Marion and Pearl Belle (Graham) Sebolt.

   He was employed for 40 years as a foreman at Albion Malleable Iron Co.  He was the first man from Clarence Township and first married man from Albion to answer the call to arms for his country after the bombing of Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941.  A volunteer in the Navy, he served throughout World War II, beginning as a volunteer in motor torpedo boats.  His battle honors include the battle of Midway Island, North African invasion, Sicilian invasion, Italian invasion, invasion of the Philippines, and the battle of Leyte Gulf.  After the war, he married his present wife, Frances (Collier) Cooper.

   Survivors include his wife, Frances; sons, Donald (Polly) Sebolt of Hart, Mich., and Winston (Edith) Sebolt of Burton, Mich.; half-brothers, Almon Marion and Earl Eldon Sebolt of Charlotte; half-sister, Alma Baker of Olivet; step-brother, Robert Richardson; and several grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by his sons, Darrel Cooper, and great-grandson, Stephen Cooper.

   Funeral services were June 20 at Albion Chapel with the Rev. Stanley Fenner officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

 

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Francis Senko

 

   Francis (Frank) Senko, 73, of Lansing died Oct. 29, 1997.

   Mr. Senko was born July 11, 1924, in Indianapolis, Ind., the son of Joseph and Rose (Dumbrovon) Senko.  He married Betty J. on July 24, 1943.  He worked for Monumental Life for many years and retired on Jan. 1, 1987, from Lansing Board of Water and Light.  He was a member of Elks #196 of Lansing, and VFW Dads Post #286 of Charlotte.  He enjoyed traveling to Europe and the Mediterranean for many years.

   He is survived by his wife, Betty; one daughter, Carolyn F. (Tommy) Mahon of Charlotte; three sons, Gary (Yvonne) of Eaton Rapids, Lon of Charlotte, and Robert (Denise) of Boulder City, Nev.; 11 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; brother, Donald (Judee) of Plymouth.

   Services were Nov. 1 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Noel Hall Nieman officiating.  There will also be a service by the VFW Dads Post #286 Oct. 31.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Greater Lansing Hospice.

 

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Carl L. Shafer

 

   Carl L. Shafer, 72, of Charlotte died April 29, 1997.

   Mr. Shafer was born Dec. 5, 1924, in Morgantown, W. Va., the son of Thomas and Maude (Howell) Shafer.  He was a resident of La Junta, Colo., until 1971, and El Paso, Texas, until 1990 before moving to Charlotte with his wife, Audrey.  He co-owned a lumber company and had worked as manager of three other lumber companies, (most of those years at Taylor Lumber Company in La Junta, Colo.) until 1971.  Being a talented artist, he designed and drew plans for many homes and businesses in La Junta.  He was instrumental in starting the Colorado Boy’s Ranch as well as a member of the board of directors.  He was extremely active in civic affairs such as the Lions Club, Chamber of Commerce, president of the Gold Club, Exalted Ruler and District Deputy of Elks Lodge #701.

   He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Audrey (Butcher); two daughters, Sandra Ballas of Albuquerque, N.M. and Pamela Buffenbarger of Charlotte; one son, Gerald Shafer of El Paso, Texas; one brother, Thomas Shafer; two sisters, Jean Adams and Maude Turner all of West Virginia; five grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

   Services were May 3 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Arthur Salisbury officiating.

 

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Gloria G. Shafer

 

   Gloria G. Shafer, 64, of Battle Creek died July 1, 1997, at her home.

   Mrs. Shafer was born Jan. 28, 1933, in Charlotte, the daughter of Charles and Hattie (Briskie) Sealock.  She attended the Pennfield and Battle Creek schools.  She joined the Battle Creek Inquirer staff in 1950 and retired in 1987 after 37 years with the paper.  She started in customer service, then moved to the photo department, and former Women’s Department.  She contacted over 30 area funeral directors prior to 9 a.m. for information about deaths, and wrote engagements, weddings, and anniversaries.  Mrs. Shafer also wrote “Kitchen Corner” for 30 years.  Her special sections included “Gloria’s Choice” and “Gloria’s Holiday Cookbook” for the Inquirer.

   She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Ralph; her parents, Hattie and Clarence Freeburn of Battle Creek; brothers, Robert (Louann) Sealock of Battle Creek and Daniel Sealock of Florida; and sisters, Barbara (Jack) Rouse and Pamela (Eddie) Jones, both of Bellevue, Betty (Ed) Granfors of Battle Creek, Judy Crane of Battle Creek,  Doris (Bob) Lichty of Battle Creek, and Carol Cheslog of Eagan, Minn.; step-brothers, James (Darlene) Freeburn of Battle Creek, Robert Freeburn of Battle Creek, and Ronald (Terri) Freeburn of Texas.

   Services were July 5 at the Richard Henry Funeral Home, Battle Creek, with the Rev. Dr. David Young officiating.  Arrangements were made by the Richard Henry Funeral Home.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Good Samaritan Hospice Care.

 

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Gregg A. Sharp

 

   Gregg A. Sharp, 23, of Mulliken died July 1, 1997, in Dimondale as a result of a traffic accident.

   Mr. Sharp was born January 27, 1974, in Lansing, the son of Jerry and Verle Sharp.  She was a 1992 graduate of Lakewood High School and was employed by C&N Supply Company.

   Surviving are his parents, Jerry and Verle Sharp; brother, Brian (Cammy) Sharp, all of Mulliken; grandparents, Allen Sharp of Mulliken, and Ernest and Ima Vosberg of Ada; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

 

 

 

 

 

   Services were held on July 7 at Barker-Leik Funeral Home, Mulliken, with the Pastor Don Woolum officiating.  Interment was in Meadowbrook Cemetery.

 

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Jessie M. Sharp

 

   Jessie M. Sharp, 87, of Olivet died March 25, 1997, at the Eaton Manor in Charlotte after a long illness.

   Mrs. Sharp was born in Homer, the daughter of Fred and Myrtie (Caldwell) Heisler and was a lifelong Olivet area resident.  She had been employed by Olivet College in the late 1950’s, was a former member of the Olivet Rebekah Lodge and had belonged to the Palmetto Mobile Home Club.

   She is survived by five daughters, Jane (Orlen) VanDriessche, Joan (Joseph) Harmon, Ilene (William) Mott and Mary (Richard) Midlam all of Olivet, and Barbara (John) Henry of Marshall; one daughter-in-law, Joyce Sharp of Olivet; 15 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; six step-grandchildren; three step-great-grandchildren; one sister, Delia Key of Olivet; and one brother, Donald (Marion) Heisler of Olivet.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Murl, in 1969; one daughter, Elaine, in 1940; two sons, Gene in 1934 and Kenneth in 1988; three sisters, Sylvia Wilbur, Freda Murphy and Carrie Oberlin; and four brothers, Cecil, Andrew, Gerald and Kenneth Heisler.

   Services were March 28 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Valerie Hill of Lee Center United Methodist Church officiating.  Interment was in the Bosworth Cemetery, Olivet.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

 

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Edward Bennett Shaw

 

   Edward Bennett Shaw, 79, of Olivet died July 29, 1997.

   Mr. Shaw was born May 17, 1918, in Lansing, the son of Ira T. & Weltha Ann Shaw.  He worked as an auto repair mechanic and enjoyed auto racing and had built several race cars.

   He is survived by his two daughters, Pamela Kay Smith, and Sharon (Bill) Dodge both of Lansing; four sons, Gary (Lucy) Shaw of Olivet, Charles Bennett Shaw of Lansing, Gerald Edward Shaw and Patrick (Sherry) Shaw both of Eaton Rapids; ten grandchildren; and a sister, Ruby Belle Grandy of Florida.

   He is preceded in death by his brother, Thomas.

   Services were July 31 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with Rev. Dale Leaman officiating.  Interment will be in Bosworth Cemetery in Olivet.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice or Eaton-Barry Home Health Care.

 

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John A. Siltanen

 

   John A. Siltanen (Arnie), 68, of Eaton Rapids died Nov. 9, 1997 in Eaton Rapids.

   Mr. Siltanen was born April 28, 1929 in E. Chicago, Ind., the son of Martti J. and Clara V. (Gaither) Siltanen.  He retired from Federal Forge in 1982 after 13 years of service.

   He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Joan; three daughters, Brenda (Jack) Stohr and Terri (Larry) Wicker all of Eaton Rapids, and Cindy Seriani of Colorado; two sons, Martti Siltanen of Lansing and Mark (Angie) Siltanen of Ariz.; 12 grandchildren; brother, Wayne (Ann) Siltanen of Ala.; and sister, Josephine (Bob) Sailer of Colorado.

   Services were Nov. 12 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, with the Rev. David Maier officiating.

 

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Jack H. Sims

 

   Jack H. Sims, 75, of Vermontville died Dec. 11, 1997.

   Mr. Sims was born June 20, 1922, in Lansing, the son of Chriss and Hazel (Hart) Sims.  He was a veteran of the U.S. Army 40 Engineers in Europe during World War II.  He was a truck driver for 26 years, working for Ellis Trucking and Odgen-Moffitt.  He was a teamsters union member of Local #580 and the Michigan Fiddlers’ Association.  He married Naomi Monroe July 5, 1946, in Angola, Ind.

   He is survived by his wife, Naomi; two daughters, Barbara Norris of Grand Ledge and Jackie Norris of Mulliken; three grandchildren; one sister, Sandra (Duane) Randall of Lawrenceville, Geo.; and two brothers, Olin Sims of Florida and Richard (Leona) Sims of Mount Pleasant.

   Services were Dec. 15 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with Richard Garn officiating.  Interment was in the Sunfield Cemetery, Eaton County.

 

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Barbara K. Skinner

 

   Barbara K. Skinner, 84, of Charlotte died Oct. 15, 1997, at her residence.

   Mrs. Skinner was born in Roxand Township, Eaton County, Dec. 16, 1912, the daughter of George and Bertha (Semrau) Kelly.  She lived most of her life in Eaton County.  She has been employed by the State of Michigan Corporation and Securities Div. retiring in 1968, after 17 years of service.  She was a member of the First Lutheran Church and its Elizabeth Guild and Choir.  Also, she was a member of the Hayes Green Beach Hospital Auxiliary, the Northend Mothers Club and an Eaton County Extension Homemaker.

   She is survived by her six children, Kenyon (Betty) Sherman and Douglas (Sue) Sherman both of Charlotte, Duane (Bobbi) Sherman of Traverse City, Bruce (Carla) Sherman of Mt. Pleasant, Texas, Joy (Dick) Hunt of Stuarts Draft, Va., and Dennis (Jane) Sherman of Powell, Ohio; 21 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and brother, Clifton Kelley of White Lake.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Skinner; mother, Bertha Kelly; sister, Beverly Rzonka; and brother, Max Kelly.

   Cremation has taken place.  Services were Oct. 19 at the First Lutheran Church, Charlotte, with the Pastor John Bookshaw officiating.  Arrangements were made by Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the First Lutheran Church Elizabeth Guild or the building fund.

 

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Imo L. Sloan

 

   Imo Lillian Sloan, 92, of Charlotte died March 18, 1997.

   Mrs. Sloan was born Oct. 22, 1904, in Hillsdale County, the daughter of Andrew and Lillian (Lesnet) Sturdevant.  She had worked as a country school teacher and was a member of the Center Eaton United Methodist Church.

   She is survived by three daughters, Lillian (Edwin) Smith of Florida, Vivian (Edward) Bobcik of Charlotte, and Karen Bowers of Dimondale; one sister, Florence Williams of Hillsdale; one son-in-law, Richard Hicks of Charlotte; 14 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence, in 1969; and one daughter, Marian Hicks on Jan. 29, 1997.

   Memorial services will be Monday, March 24, at 1 p.m. at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Charlotte Library or the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church.

 

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Charles W. Smallwood

 

   Charles W. Smallwood, 95, of Charlotte died Monday, Nov. 3, 1997.

   Mr. Smallwood was born Oct. 17, 1902, in Gladwin, the son of Els and Sophia (Strokirch) Smallwood.  He married Dolores VanValkenburg Aug. 15, 1926.  He owned and operated the Charlotte Hardware Store.  He was the recipient of the Silver Beaver Award.  He served two terms as mayor of Charlotte, and also the city manager and city engineer for many years.  He was a member of the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church, serving as Sunday School Superintendent and teacher.

   He is survived by his wife Dolores; two daughters, Phyllis Straight and Carolyn (Jack) Hazel, both of Charlotte; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and one sister, Alta (Richard) Lumby of Rockford, Ill.

   Services are Monday, Nov. 10, at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.  Interment is in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church.

 

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Dorothy P. Smith

 

   Dorothy Pauline Smith, 83, of Charlotte died March 21, 1997, at the Eaton County Medical Care Facility, where she had resided for the last 10 years.

   Mrs. Smith was born Dec. 4, 1913, in Vermontville, the daughter of Lloyd and Glyda (Conley) Hitt.  She was a life member of the Order of Eastern Star.

   She is survived by one son, Jerry (Margaret) of Comstock; two daughters, Joy (Jerry) Mogg and Rosalie (Larry) Bazzett, both of Charlotte; 10 grandchildren, Bob Stroud, JoDean (Mike) Snyder, Jeff Mogg, Alan Smith, Don Smith, Kimberly (Mike) Harris, Amy Betts, Jayne (Kermit) Smith, Jim Smith, and Rob Betts; four great-grandchildren, Stephanie Stroud, Jordan Smith, Alyssa Brashaw, and Grant Snyder; one brother, Lloyd (Marie) Hitt of Lake Odessa; one sister, Helen Rickle of Charlotte; and special friend, Bertha Malcuit.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Don in 1975.

   Services were March 24 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Edna Fleming officiating.  Interment was in the Gresham Cemetery, Eaton County.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

 

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George E. Smith

 

   George E. Smith, 76, of Narrow Lake, Springport, died Oct. 14, 1997, at his residence.

   Mr. Smith was born Feb. 24, 1921, in Greenville, the son of Albert and Blanche (Fleming) Smith.  He has been a lifelong Eaton County area resident.  He was a 1940 graduate of Dansville High School, was a member and past president of the Fifty Plus Club in Lewiston, and the Red Oak Club of Red Oak.  Also a former member of the Calvary Baptist Church of Charlotte.  He had been employed as a heavy equipment operator for the city of Charlotte retiring in 1978, after 23 years of service.  Prior to that, he had been employed by the Fowler Farms near Charlotte.

   He is survived by two sons, Terry K. (Cindy) Smith of Narrow Lake and Gregory G. (Mistel) Smith of Columbia City, Ind.; 9 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Leona Densmore and Alberta Noecker both of Charlotte.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Robert M. (Baker) Smith; son, Larry Smith; and sister, Jennie Baxter.

   Services were Oct. 18 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with Minister John Coney officiating.  Interment was in the Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton County Hospice.

 

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Irene Hannah Smith

 

   Irene Hannah (Fast) Smith, 87, died Dec. 22, 1996.

   Irene was born Feb. 6, 1909, in Paxton, Illinois, the only daughter of Frank and Hannah (Swanson) Fast.  Her family later moved to Michigan and purchased a farm on Stahl Road.  She attended Charlotte High School, graduating in 1927.  She married Murl Smith in 1929.  Together they started a small grocery business on Prairie Street in 1941.  In 1943, they built a new store on Henry Street which combined groceries and a lunch counter.  The owned it until 1956.  Murl went to work for the City Fire Department while Irene worked for the Charlotte School system in the cafeteria until her retirement in 1975.  She was a member of The Clover Club, Eastern Star Chapter #218, the Rebecca Lodge #68, and has been a lifelong member of the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church in Charlotte.

   She is survived by a daughter, Marilyn L. Smith of Battle Creek; a son, Lynn M. Smith of Frankfurt, Kentucky; four grandchildren, Valerie K. Campbell, Trent (Cheryl) L. Smith, Greg (LeeAnn) L. Smith, and Kermit (Jayne) L. Smith; and 7 great-grandchildren.

   She was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Murl, in 1987; and 4 brothers, Kenneth Fast, 1912, Earl Fast, 1949, Wilbur Fast, 1982, and Albin Fast, 1987.

   Services were Dec. 26 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made in Irene’s name to Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church.

 

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Jack S. Smith

 

   Jack Sterling Smith, 74, of Sunfield Township, Eaton County, died April 9, 1997, at a Lansing hospital.  He was afflicted with a respiratory ailment.

   Mr. Smith was born Oct. 18, 1921, in Lansing, the son of Arthur and Lola (DePue) Smith.  His schooling carried him through Walter French Junior High, Lansing Eastern High School and formally concluded with a degree in agriculture from Michigan State College, now Michigan State University, in 1943.  He had four years of reserve officer’s training corps while he was a M.S.C.  He was immediately called into the United States Army, Calvalry Division, as a 2nd Lieutenant.  He attended Fort Benning, near Columbus, Ga., for a concentrated refresher course before being assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Riley, Kansas, as a line officer.  He soon became a 1st Lieutenant.  He was recognized at that time as being the youngest company commander in the United States Army.  His service in that unit continued to the ends of World War II, after being a participant in the lessening of battle action in the Philippine Islands.  His final assignment was in Japan as part of the occupation force.

   During his tour of duty, he met and married Dorothy Pierce of Upland, Kan., in 1944.  To this union was born Jacqueline, Raymond and Phillip.

   After leaving the Army in 1946, he and his father combined their efforts and farmed acreage near Sunfield on Round Lake and Sunfield roads.  At the death of his father, and his son Phillip’s reaching adulthood, Jack and Dorothy continued to farm the acreage with Phil until shortly before Jack’s death.  Just weeks earlier, both Jack and Phil decided to retire from farming, have a sale, and then to proceed – Jack to retirement and Phillip to other endeavors.

   Mr. Smith’s life time community involvements and accomplishments included:  teaching agriculture to returning World War II veterans through the Grand Ledge School system, member of the Sunfield School Board, Sunfield Township Treasurer, manager of Sunfield Farmer’s Elevator, driver’s training teacher for Sunfield High School, Justice of the Peace for Sunfield Township, president of Eaton County Township Association, member of the Eaton County Drain Commission, member of Eaton County Planning Commission, and chairman of the Eaton County Farm Bureau.  He also spearheaded a project to construct the Veteran’s Memorial in the Sunfield Cemetery.  At the time of his death, he was a member of the Eaton County Parks and Recreation Committee and had been Sunfield Township’s Supervisor and Assessor for 25 years.  He was a member of the Sunfield United Methodist Church and served as board chairman, finance chairman, building chairman, choir director, and Sunday school teacher.

   He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Dorothy; his children, Jackie (Kendall) Carr of Lake Odessa, Ray of Dallas, Texas and Phil (Sheryl) of Sunfield; grandchildren, Kendra, Sara, and Amanda Carr, Brandy Smith, Jeffrey Sterling Smith and Marlene Smith; one brother, Robert Smith of Hayward, Calif.; one sister, Mary Jane Huxtable of Lincoln, Neb.; and several nieces and nephews.

   Interment was in the Sunfield Cemetery April 12 beside his father, mother, and nephew, Jeffrey Smith.

 

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Jack A. Southern

 

   Jack A. Southern, 83, of Phoenix died Sept. 2, 1997, at Sisters of Providence Hospital, Medford, Ore.

   Mr. Southern was born March 4, 1914, in Vermontville.  In 1933 he graduated from Charlotte High School.  Before moving to Oregon in 1989, he retired as plumbing and heating supervisor of the Riverdale, California Unified School District.  He was a member of the United Methodist Church, Talent.  His Masonic affiliations included a 50-year membership in Riverside, California Order of the Eastern Star with dual membership at Adarel Chapter #3 Jacksonville, Ore.  Mr. Southern was a member of the Knights Templar of California and an officer and charter member of White Shrine Lodge in Riverside.

   He is survived by his wife, Shirley Mrozek Southern; daughter, Sarah Mudgett of Ashland; sister, Elizabeth Stowe of Ionia; brother, Samuel Southern of Charlotte; and granddaughter, Susan Mudgett of Eugene.

   He was preceded in death by his first wife, Ruth; two brothers, Shirley and William Southern.

   Services were Sept. 6 at Hillcrest Chapel, with the Rev. Bill and Mary Ellen Hare officiating.  Interment was in Hillcrest Memorial Park.

 

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Dennis E. Spear

 

   Dennis E. Spear, 77, of Lansing died Feb. 23, 1997, at Michigan Capital Medical Center, Greenlawn Campus, Lansing.

   Mr. Spear was born in Backus, Minn., the son of Clyde and Mable Spear and had been a Lansing resident for 72 years, coming from Minnesota.  He was a retired truck driver, having worked for Ellis Truck Lines, Navajo Freight Lines, and Symonds Brothers Grocers.

   He is survived by his wife, Kathryn (Baird) Spear; one stepdaughter, Janet (Charles) Wright of Charlotte; one stepson, Clair Ferris Jr. of Lansing; six grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; one brother-in-law, Rex Whipple of Lansing; and several nieces and nephews.

   Services were Feb. 25 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with George Blanche officiating.  Interment was in the Gresham Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

 

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June E. Spear

 

   June E. Spear, 76, of Potterville died March 1, 1997, at Michigan Capital Medical Center, Greenlawn Campus, Lansing.

   Mrs. Spear was born in East Liberty, Ohio, the daughter of Victor and Alto (Wood) Inskeep.

   She is survived by one daughter, Patricia (Thomas) Ray of Wills Point, Texas; two sons, Arthur Ketchum of Indianapolis, Ind., and Gerald Ketchum of Denver, Colo.; 14 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and one sister, Joyce (John) Gunder of Jackson.

   She was preceded in death by one daughter, Shirley LaFountain; her husband, Cecil Spear in 1973; and one sister, Jean Wiles.

   Cremation has taken place.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.  Interment was in the East Lawn Cemetery, Saginaw.

 

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Kenneth G. Spotts

 

   Kenneth George Spotts, 77, of Charlotte died March 3, 1997.

   Mr. Spotts was  born July 14, 1919, in Brookfield Township.  He was a sanitary engineer at Fisher Body until his retirement in 1980.  He was also involved with farming.

   He is survived by his wife, Ozell; two sons, Nolan (Jacqueline) and Michael, both of Charlotte; one stepdaughter, Ray (Harold “Bucky”) Lucas of Battle Creek; one brother, Clifford (Frances) Spotts of Charlotte; 12 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

   He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Pearl Spotts.

   Services were March 5 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of Michigan.

 

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Leo E. Stambaugh

 

   Leo E. Stambaugh, 70, of Nashville died April 16 at Mercy Pavilion, Battle Creek.

   He was born in Vermontville on May 19, 1926, the son of Earl and Arlie (Wilcox) Stambaugh.  He graduated from Vermontville and was a World War II veteran, serving in the Army in the Philippines.  He married Roberta “Bert” Woolston in Hastings on April 4, 1947.  She died Oct. 2, 1995.

   He was a supervisor for General Motors in Lansing, and enjoyed fishing and traveling to fishing spots.

   Surviving are son, Gary (Marie) Stambaugh of Nashville; brother, Lyle (Bonnie) Stambaugh of Nashville; sister, Dorla (Glen) Betts of Nashville; mother, Arlie Shaffer of Hastings; grandchildren, Mike, Ron, and Sandy; great-grandchildren; Jessica, Logan, K.C., and Sadie Michelle; and several nieces and nephews.

   Funeral services were Friday at Genther Funeral Home, Nashville, with the Rev. James Hynes officiating.  Interment was a Lakeview Cemetery.  Memorial donations may be made to the family.

 

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Joseph S. Stanley

 

   Joseph S. Stanley, 76, of Charlotte died Nov. 11, 1997.

   Mr. Stanley was born Dec. 1, 1920, in Cleveland, Ohio, the son of Joseph and Katie (Kepes) Stanley.  He was a World War II veteran, serving with the U.S. Army.  He worked as a handyman most of his life.

 

 

 

 

   Military honors will be Nov. 17 at Ft. Custer National Cemetery, Augusta.  Arrangements were by Pray Funeral Home.

 

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Susan J. Stanley

 

   Susan J. Stanley, 57, of Continental, Ohio, died May 5, 1997, in Ottawa, Ohio.

   Ms. Stanley was born July 31, 1939, in Cincinnati, Ohio, the daughter of Arthur and Mary Jane (Chapel) Zimmerman.  She was a member of the Defiance Church of Christ.

   She is survived by two daughters, Melissa Stanley of Continental, Ohio, and Janey Moore of Charlotte; five grandchildren; Christopher and Ashley Stanley of Continental, Ohio, and Nicole, Benjamin and Emily Moore of Charlotte; and one sister, Judy Stanley of Rosedale, W.V.

   She was preceded in death by her parents; and one sister, Nancy Zimmerman.

   Services were May 8 at the Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Continental, Ohio, with the Rev. Bob Sheppard officiating.  Interment was in the Monroe Cemetery, Monroe Township, Ohio.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

 

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Clara F. Starkweather

 

   Clara F. Starkweather, 92, of Alma, formerly of Charlotte, died Jan. 16, 1997.

   Mrs. Starkweather was born Jan. 26, 1904, in Charlotte, the daughter of George and Daisy (Kingman) Goodnoe.  She was an accountant for the state of Michigan in the 1930’s, then a secretary with Oldsmobile.  She was a member of the Maple City Chapter #128 OES; former member of the Phythian Sisters, Manatee Ladies Shrine, All States Club OES; and the Sunshine Club, and a member of the First Congregational Church, Charlotte.

   She is survived by two daughters, Phyllis (Douglas) Fletcher of Farwell and Beverly Howard of Ocala, Fla.; four grandchildren, Mark (Joanne) Fletcher of Mulliken, Cheryl Wilkie of Traverse City, David (Laura) Fletcher of Flint; and Patty Howard of Indiana; seven great-grandchildren; and one sister, Lucille Strickland of Hillsdale.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence.

   Services were Jan. 18 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Thomas Ball officiating.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

 

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Inolene A. Steiner

 

   Inolene A. Steiner, 82, of Charlotte died Jan. 16, 1997.

   Mrs. Steiner was born June 15, 1914, in Searcy, Ark., the daughter of Divella and Grace (Bloyd) Harris.  She was a clerk for J.J. Newberry 5 & 10 Store and Richey’s, both in Charlotte.

   She is survived by two daughters, Dorothy Jean (Edward) Steiner, and Evelyn Montague both of Charlotte; one son, James (Diane) Willis of Robbinsville, N.C.; nine grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; two half-brothers, Travis (Velma) Harris and Bill (Betty) Harris, both of Arkansas; and three half-sisters, Berry Jo (Carroll) Owens, Joyce (Byrum) Ahart, and Shirley (Euell) Davis all of Arkansas; and several nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by her first husband, Forrest Willis; and her second husband, Albert Steiner.

   Cremation has taken place.  Memorial services were Jan. 20 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.  Interment was in the Kalamo Cemetery, Eaton County.

 

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Cynthia D. Stevens

 

   Cynthia D. Stevens, 75, of Olivet died Jan. 5, 1997, at her residence after a long illness.

   Mrs. Stevens was born in Winsted, Conn., the daughter of Frank and Martha (Harrison) DeMars and had resided in Olivet since 1956.  She was a graduate of Winsted High School Class of 1939 and Tufts College, MA Class of 1943.  She was a remedial reading teacher in the elementary grades of the Olivet Public Schools retiring in 1982 after 22 years of service.  She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma Society and the Olivet Congregational Church UCC and it’s Cora Sexton Circle.

   She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Arthur; four children, Margaret (Robert) Giles of Granby, Conn., Arthur (Joann) Stevens of Woodbury, N.J., James Stevens of Olivet, and Gregory (Diane) Stevens of Midland; seven grandchildren, Aimee and Michael Giles, Todd, Andy, and Greg Stevens, and Shelley and Adam Stevens; one sister, Martha Richards of Winsted, Conn.; and one brother, Frank DeMars of Winsted, Conn.

   Cremation has taken place.  Memorial services were Jan. 11 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Clark Hock of the Olivet Congregational Church officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Olivet Congregational Church.

 

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Hadley J. Stone

 

   Hadley J. (Stoney) Stone, 78, of Charlotte died Oct. 17, 1997.

   Mr. Stone was born June 19, 1919, in Towanda, Penn., the son of Joseph and Laura (Weaver) Stone.  He worked for Oldsmobile as a Custodial Engineer and retired in 1980.  He served in the Army Air Corp in World War II.

   He is survived by his two daughters, Cheryl (Mike) DeFrates and Connie (Dean) Peters both of Charlotte; one son, Tom of Charlotte; brother, Edward (Eleanor) Stone of Syracuse, N.Y.; seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

   Services were Oct. 20 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Pastor Robert Betts officiating.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

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John J. Strang

 

   John J. Strang, 42, of Holt died Nov. 14, 1997.

   Mr. Strang was born July 1, 1955, in Walla Walla, Wash.  He graduated from Mount Hope Church Bible Training Institute in 1944 in Pastoral Studies.  He was a member of the Mount Hope International Outreach and he served his church in many areas.  Mr. Strang worked for General Motors for 20 years.

   He is survived by his wife of 5 years, Rebecca; two sons, Anthony (Sarina) Strang and Matthew Strang both of Lansing; two daughters, Jessica and Amy Cooley; one grandchild; three brothers, Don Underwood of Texas, Darwin (Sue) Underwood of Oregon, and Dell (Pat) Strang of Colorado; three sisters, Hannah (Richard) Nelson of Lansing, Mary (Edwin) Kohler of Bath, and Starla Underwood of Washington; and many other relatives and friends.

   He is preceded in death by his first wife, Linda; and father, Charles.

   Services were Nov. 17 at Mount Hope International Outreach, Lansing, with the Rev. Edward Sans Gillis III officiating.  Interment followed at Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice of Lansing, Inc. or the Mount Hope International Outreach.

 

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Barbara I. Strank

 

   Barbara I. (Myers) Strank, 71, died Aug. 14, 1997, at her residence.

   Mrs. Strank was born Jan. 10, 1926, in Concord, the daughter of Harold and Pearl (Klopp) Myers.  She was a school bus driver for the Eaton Rapids Public Schools, retiring in 1986 after 18 years of service.

   She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Wendell; three sons, Gary (Carol) Strank of Iowa and David (Gail) Strank and Barry Strank, both of Eaton Rapids; and six grandchildren, Rebecca, Shannon, Laura, Daniel, Peter, and Alicia Strank.

   She was preceded in death by her parents; one grandson, Wayne; and one granddaughter, Wendy.

   Services were Aug. 18 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with Elder David Downie officiating.  Interment was in the Plains Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Michigan Capitol Visiting Nurse and Hospice in memory of Barbara Strank.

 

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Howard F. Streeter

 

   Howard F. Streeter, 86, of Charlotte died Aug. 7, 1997, at Hayes Green Beach Hospital, Charlotte after an extended illness.

   Howard was born Sept. 2, 1910, in Courtland Twp., the son of Harmon D. and Lucy (Howard) Streeter.  He has been a resident of Charlotte for 52 years, coming from Grand Rapids.  He had been employed as a Feed Mill Manager for Minor-Walton Bean Co. in Grand Rapids and Charlotte retiring in 1976 after 44 years of service.  Also, he served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was a 50-year member of Greenwalt-Flaherty Post #42 American Legion in Charlotte.  He was a life member of the Charlotte Lodge #120 F&AM, past high priest of #82 R.A.M., and life member of #37 Knights Templar (Commandery).  He was also a member of the Saladin Shrine Temple, Grand Rapids, and the Eaton County Shrine Club.

   He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Dagmer (Kucera) Streeter; brother, Lloyd Streeter of Rockford; sister, Eunice Sovereign of Decar Springs.  He was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Glenn Streeter.

   Services were Aug. 11 at Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. A. William Colson and Charlotte Lodge #120 F&AM officiating.  Interment was in Woodlawn Cemetery, Grand Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, the American Diabetes Association, or the Alzheimer’s Association.

 

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Judy M. Strickland

 

   Judy Miller Strickland of Tallahassee, Fla., died May 14, 1997, in Tallahassee.

   Mrs. Strickland was a member of the Faith Presbyterian Church.

   She is survived by her husband of 38 years, Sylvan; one daughter, Jill Gilliard of Tallahassee, Fla.; one son, Tim (Pam) Strickland of Charlotte; five grandchildren; and two sisters, Velma Miller and Marie Brady, both of Thomasville, Ga.

   Services were May 16 at the Faith Presbyterian Church, Tallahassee.  Interment was in the Roselawn Cemetery, Tallahassee.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 241 John Knox Rd., Suite 100, Tallahassee, Fl  32303 or the Diabetes Center at TMRMC 1221 Hodges Dr., Tallahassee, FL  32308.

 

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Tommy P. Stubblefield

 

   Tommy P. Stubblefield, 46, of Charlotte died March 20, 1997.

   Mr. Stubblefield was born Oct. 28, 1958, in Martin, Tenn., the son of Jarrett and Mae (Pierce) Stubblefield.  He was a forklift driver for Oldsmobile in Lansing.

   He is survived by his wife, Linda; two daughters, Angela (Marc) Gonzael and Melissa Stubblefield, both of Charlotte; two granddaughters, Morgan and Marissa; one sister, Sharon (Bill) Christiansen of Potterville; one niece, Cheri; and one nephew, Billy; and his parents of Higgins Lake.

   Visitation is Sunday, March 23, from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Services are Monday, March 24 at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home with the Rev. Thomas Peters officiating.

 

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Dennis F. Stump

 

   Dennis F. Stump, 51, of Potterville died Aug. 16, 1997.

   Mr. Stump was born Oct. 18, 1945, in Lansing, the son of Willard and Margaret Stump.  He worked in the construction business.

   He is survived by his wife, Joan; his mother and stepfather, Margaret and Duane Mulholland, of Potterville; one daughter, Carrie, of Texas; one brother, Gary of Norco, Calif.; and two sisters, Lori Rock and Amy Mulholland, both of Potterville.

   Graveside services were Aug. 17 at the Benton Township Cemetery, Potterville, with the Rev. Paul Bailey officiating.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

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Doc E. Summers

 

   Doc E. Summers, 79, of Vermontville died Oct. 12, 1997 in Hastings.

   Mr. Summers was born Aug. 17, 1918, in Chicago, Ill., the son of Arthur and Helen (Shay) Summers Sr.  He was a farmer in the Sunfield and Portland area for many years.  He was a World War II veteran serving in the Navy, a former 4-H leader, and a member of the Vermontville United Methodist Church.

   He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Ruth Ann Summers; 8 children, Rachel Speck of Lansing, Sue (Howard) Holloway of Houghton Lake, tom J. Summers of Mason, Stephen (Sharon) Summers of Vermontville, Frances Dillard of Charlotte, Catherine (Robert) Brown of Bellevue, Richard (Kathryn) Summers of Charlotte, and Marjory Brunette of Wyoming; 16 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; sister, Florence Sandborg of Portland; and Aunt, Dorothy (Russell) Blackman of Portland.

   Services were Oct. 16 at the Rosier Funeral Home, Mapes-Fisher Chapel, Sunfield, with the Rev. Jeff Bowman officiating.  Interment was held in the Sunfield Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Vermontville United Methodist Church.

 

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Mary F. Sumner

 

   Mary F. “Aunt Mary” Sumner, 100, of Eaton Rapids died Aug. 23, 1997, in Holt.

   Mrs. Sumner was born Feb. 9, 1897, in New York, the daughter of Jerome and Clara Eve (Hutchinson) Sumner.  She was a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Charlotte.  She retired as a Registered Nurse and Physical Therapist after being employed in California, Maryland, Oregon, Washington, and Michigan.

   She is survived by her brother, C.J. “Jerry” (Millie) Sumner of Eaton Rapids; three nieces, Georgene (Howard) Krenrich, and Miladean (Ben) Leifermann all of Florida, and Lorene (Larry) Henderson of Eaton Rapids; and grandnephew, Dr. Scott Krenrich of Texas.

   She is preceded in death by her two sisters, Ollie Walling and Iva Furnival.

   There will be no services.  The family was served by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.

 

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Brianna SueAnn Suntken

 

   Brianna SueAnn Suntken, infant daughter of Courtney and Melissa (Kikendall) Suntken of Charlotte died April 1, 1997.

   Brianna was born at Sparrow Hospital.

   She is survived by her parents; one sister, Samantha; grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Kikendall of Charlotte, Mr. and Mrs. Doug Klont of Eaton Rapids and Mr. and Mrs. LaVern Suntken of Olivet; great-grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Suntken, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Beck and Jeannette Kikendall all of Charlotte.

   She was preceded in death by her brother, Garrett, in 1994.

   Graveside services were April 4, at the Bosworth Cemetery, with the Rev. Michael Knauff officiating.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

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Harry M. Sutton

 

   Harry M. Sutton, 97, died June 13, 1997 in Eaton Rapids.

   Mr. Sutton was born Sept. 18, 1899, in Dexter, Mo., the son of Henry James and Clara (Grove) Sutton.  He retired from Diamond Reo in 1968.

   Mr. Sutton was preceded in death by his first wife, Annabelle, in 1971; son, James, in 1950; seven sisters; one granddaughter, Ruth Williams, in 1983, and two other grandchildren.

   Surviving are his wife of 24 years, Glory; four daughters, Dorotha (Max) Williams of Eaton Rapids, Reba (Dewey) Fuller of Mason, Alice Miller of Eaton Rapids, and Shirley Cude; one son, Marvin M. (Sylvia) Sutton Sr. of Eaton Rapids; one step-daughter, Patricia Christmas of Lansing; two step-sons, Glen (Jeri) Pettit of Williamston and Jon (Mae) Pettit of Traverse City; 14 grandchildren, Steve (Jacqueline) Fuller of Haslett, Tom (Bette) Fuller and Dewey (Sandra) Fuller of Lansing, Barbara Payne of Eaton Rapids, Jayne (Jan) Stucky of Georgia, the Rev. Max (the Rev. Louise) Williams Jr. of Ohio, Harry (Judy) Sutton, Marvin (Christine) Sutton, Beatrice (Les) McMann, Sybil Sutton and Mark (Cathy) Kirkey of Eaton Rapids, the Rev. Marcia Sutton of Oregon, Melissa (Keith) Goodman of Pennsylvania and Dale Miller of Eaton Rapids; 26 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and one sister, Jewel South of Illinois.

   Funeral services were June 17 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home with the Rev. Max Williams Jr. and the Rev. Marcia Sutton officiating.  Interment followed at Rosehill Cemetery in Eaton Rapids.

   Contributions may be made to Eaton Rapids Community Hospital in memory of Harry M. Sutton.

 

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Nancy I. Taylor

 

   Nancy Ida Taylor, 66, of Sunfield died Nov. 16, 1997, at Butterworth Hospital, Grand Rapids.

   Mrs. Taylor was born Dec. 27, 1930, in Alma, the daughter of Guy and Maxine (Linhart) Taylor.  She was a lifelong resident of Sunfield and had been a meat cutter for many years.

   She is survived by three sisters, Joyce (Gene) Klotz of Lansing, Patricia (Irv) Kananen of Plymouth, and Kay (Ron) Bodenmuller of Woodland; one brother, Jack (Yvonne) of Tucson, Ariz.; and many nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by her parents, and one brother, Gordon.

   Services were Nov. 19 at the Rosier Funeral Home, Mapes-Fisher Chapel, Sunfield, with the Rev. Harris Hoekwater officiating.  Interment was in the Sunfield Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Sunfield    Sponsors    of    Programs    for    Youth

 

 

 

Scholarship Fund, Lakewood Ambulance Service, or Sunfield Fire Department’s First Response Unit.

 

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Timothy A. Tennant

 

   Timothy A. Tennant, 23, of Ferndale, formerly of Eaton Rapids, died Oct. 13, 1997.

   Mr. Tennant was born May 10, 1974, in Eaton Rapids, the son of Ernest and Rozena (Hoffman) Tennant.  He graduated from Olivet High School and in the spring of 1997 graduated from Michigan Tech University.  He was working as an engineer for Chrysler Corp.  He was a member of the society of Manufacturing Engineers and an Eagle Scout from Troop 647 in Olivet.

   He is survived by his parents; two brothers, Troy (Casey) Tennant of Eaton Rapids and Kyle Tennant of Detroit; one sister, Tracy Tennant of Detroit; grandmother, Helen Hoffman of Grasslake; partner, Greg Hayter of Detroit; aunts and uncles; niece; and nephew.

   Services were Oct. 18 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with Rev. Clark Hock officiating.  Interment of cremated remained was in Perry Cemetery, Brookfield Township.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

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Ann Virginia Tennes

 

   Ann Virginia Tennes, 59, of Charlotte died June 10, 1997.

   Mrs. Tennes was born Dec. 22, 1937, in Memphis, Tenn., the daughter of James Edward and Louise C. (Carson) Stalls.  She had been co-owner/manager of the Country Mill since 1971, a psychiatric social worker with a master’s degree in psychiatric social work from St. Louis University, and a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Georgian Court College in Lakewood, N.J.  She was also a member of St. Mary Catholic Church and the Michigan Horticultural Society.

   She is survived by her husband, Bernard; son, Michael R. (Diana) of Colorado Springs, Colo.; daughter, Eunice (Casey) Gragg of Reston, Va.; sons, Christopher R. and Stephen R. of Charlotte; five grandchildren; mother, Louise C. Stalls of Memphis, Tenn.; and brothers, James R. Stalls Jr. of Baton Rouge, La., and Robert Stalls of Memphis, Tenn.

   Funeral Mass was June 13 at St. Mary Catholic Church with the Rev. Thomas Nenneau officiating.  Interment was in Benton Township Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Ann Tennes St. Mary School Scholarship Fund.  Envelopes are available at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte.

 

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Roy L. Thornton

 

   Roy Lee Thornton, 76, of Three Notch, Ala., formerly of Olivet, died Nov. 25, 1997.

   He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth of Three Notch; one son, Raymond (Becky) of Union Springs, Ala.; three sisters, Beall (Richard) Ropers and Martha Thornton, both of Montgomery, Ala., and Lois (Roger) Morgan of Manchester, Conn.; three brothers, Clifford (Mary Nell) of Centre, Ala., and William (Frances) of Waverly, Tenn., and Cleta Thornton of Olivet; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

   Graveside services were Nov. 29 in Belle Eagle, Tenn.

   Memorial contributions have been made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or the American Heart or American Cancer Associations.

 

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Margie M. Tow

 

   Margie Mildred Tow, 92, of Onondaga, formerly of Charlotte died March 29, 1997.

   Mrs. Tow was born April 21, 1904, in Isabella County, the daughter of John and Alta Landes.  She was a homemaker in her own home.

   She is survived by one son, James; three grandchildren, James, Jeff, and Annette; and one sister-in-law, Ruth Landes.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Glenn, in 1990.

   Services were April 1 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. William Muller officiating.  Interment was in the Needmore Cemetery, Needmore.

 

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Sarah V. Tracy

 

   Sarah Velma Tracy, 87, of Eaton Rapids died Jan. 29, 1997.

   Mrs. Tracy was born Jan. 12, 1920, in Sault Ste. Marie.  She retired from the Eaton Stamping Company in 1975.  She had previously been employed at Motor Wheel and R.O.E. Motors in Lansing.

   She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Harry; one daughter, Sharen Jo (Larry) Schneider of Lowell; three sons, James (Ethelda) Cataline of Eaton Rapids, Richard (Shirley) Cataline of Eaton Rapids, and William (Marilyn) Cataline of East Tawas; one daughter-in-law, Gladys Cataline of Eaton Rapids; 15 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; several brothers and sisters, including Leighton (Pat) Proctor of Middleville; and several nieces and nephews.

   She was preceded in death by one son, Ronald Cataline.

   Services were Feb. 2 at the Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Paul Frederick of the Mt. Hope United Methodist Church of Lansing officiating.  Interment was in the Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

 

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Elbert C. Travis

 

   Elbert C. Travis, 77, of Vermontville died March 11, 1997.

   Mr. Travis was born Oct. 5, 1919, in Nashville, the son of Guy and Eva (Seaman) Travis.  He married Alice Harry on Aug. 31, 1940.  He worked for General Foods for 32 years, retiring in 1979.  He was a member of the 25 Year Club, Kalamo Historical Society, and a board member of the Kalamo Methodist Church, where he attended.  He moved to Kalamo in 1954 where he farmed cattle as a hobby.

   He is survived by his wife, Alice; two daughters, Mary (Roy) Weldon of Albion, and Beverly (Robert) Hendershot of Climax; and four grandchildren, Rex Weldon, Scott Weldon, Holly Weldon, and Lori Hendershot.

   Services were March 14 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Mark Thompson officiating.  Interment was in the Riverside Cemetery, Bellevue.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Kalamo United Methodist Church.

 

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Donald A. Trumley

 

   Donald A. Trumley, 92, formerly of Charlotte, died Aug. 1, 1997, in San Antonio, Texas.

   Mr. Trumley was born May 1, 1905, in Charlotte, the son of Elmer and Maude Trumley.  He was the second of seven children.  He retired from the General Accounting Office, Washington, D.C.

   He is survived by his wife, Jeanette; one sister, Elizabeth Hunt; one brother, Richard; and several nieces and nephews.

   He was preceded in death by one son, Francis; three brothers, Ernest, Elton, Darrell, and Robert; and one sister, Grace La Parl Rudisell.

   A memorial service was held in San Antonio.

   Memorial contributions may be made to Hayes Green Beach Hospital, Charlotte.

 

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Fredrick Allen Van Antwerp Sr.

 

   Fredrick Allen “Fred” Van Antwerp Sr., 77 of Grand Ledge, formerly of Sunfield, passed away Aug. 25, 1997, in Charlotte.

   Mr. Van Antwerp was born Dec. 1, 1919, in Sunfield, the son of Elmer E. and Belle E. (Lockwood) Van Antwerp.  He is a Veteran of WW II serving in the Army.  He ran an insurance business in Sunfield for 25 years and was Emergency Services Director for Eaton County for 23 years, retiring in 1985.  He was a longtime member of the Sunfield Lions Club, working on many Farmers Picnics.  Mr. Van Antwerp was also a Volunteer fireman and a member of the F & AM Sunfield Lodge.

   He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Mary M. Van Antwerp; three children, Fredrick Allen (Marilyn) Antwerp Jr. of Laingsburg, Christopher P. (Jill) Van Antwerp of Lowell, and Louann (Ed) Woodman of Charlotte; 8 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; brother, Elmer (Virginia) Van Antwerp of Lake Odessa.

   Services were Aug. 28 at the Rosier Funeral Home, Sunfield, with the Rev. Clinton J. Galloway officiating.  Interment was in the Meadowbrook Cemetery, Mulliken.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Sunfield Area Sponsor or Programs for Youth Scholarships Fund aka S.P.Y.’s Rosier Funeral Home, P.O. Box 36, Springfield, MI  48890.

 

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Diane Kay Vance

 

   Diane Kay Vance, 47, of Bellevue died Oct. 7, as a result of an automobile accident.

   She was born March 1, 1950, in Lansing, the daughter of Lawrence and Mary (Umbler) Humbarger.  She was a corrections officer in Coldwater for Camp Branch Women’s Facility.  She was a member of the Assembly of God Church in Charlotte and a member of the Moose Lodge 676 in Marshall.

   She is survived by four daughters, Crystal (Thomas) Rice of Eaton Rapids, Tammie (John) McKinney of Mulliken, Heather (Brian) Moore of Charlotte, Tricia (Kevin) Mahan of Vermontville, and her son, Sherwood (Karie) Jones of Charlotte; 14 grandchildren; former husband, Sherwood Jones of Weidman; three brothers, David Humbarger of Oklahoma, Larry Humbarger and Don Humbarger, both of Ohio; and sister, Batty Geisler of North Carolina.

   Funeral services were Oct. 11 at Pray Funeral Home with the Rev. Mark Woodbury officiating.

 

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Marian H. (Johnson) VanDerBos

 

   Marian H. (Johnson) VanDerBos, 79, of St. James City, Fla., formerly of Eaton Rapids, died Oct. 30, 1996, in Florida.

   Mrs. VanDerBos was born Oct. 29, 1917, in Gladwin, the daughter of Carl and Rose (Boyer) Lange.  She had been employed with Hart’s Gamble Store, VFW National Home, and Eaton County Medical Care Facility.

   She is survived by her husband of 21 years, Fred; four daughters, Randi (Donald) Colestock of Eaton Rapids, Cheryl (Kent) Moss of Springport, Penny Carris of Eaton Rapids, and Susan (Tom) Wilson of Las Vegas, Nev.; one son, Thomas Johnson of Eaton Rapids; two stepsons, Ross VanDerBos of Carson City and Brian (Evie) VanDerBos of Lansing; 13 grandchildren, Becky Wood, Jeff, Tim and Misti Horton, Ron and Steve Moss, Cathy Wood, Heather and Alex Carris and Bob, Jessica, Jarod, and Adam Wilson; five great-grandchildren, Jennifer, Gregg, and Matt Wood, and Mychel and Alysa Horton; three sisters, Janet Strohkirch, Doris (Donald) Shell, all of Gladwin, and Pat (Ronald) Umphrey of Clare; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

   She was preceded in death by her first husband, Roy Johnson in 1968; two sons, Bob Johnson in 1978 and Jim Johnson in 1987; and one sister, Dorothy Burdick in 1995.

   Graveside services are Saturday, May 17, at 1 p.m. at the Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.  Arrangements were made by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.

 

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Sara “Sally” Vander Ploeg

 

   Sara “Sally” Vander Ploeg, 62, of Jenison, formerly of Charlotte, died Dec. 11, 1997, as the result of an automobile accident.

  She is survived by two daughters, Laura (Darin) Wilbur of Saranac and May Vander Ploeg of Lincoln, Neb.; two sons, David (Lori) of Mancelona and John (Judy) of Highland; four grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Karyn, Randy, and Alexandra; three sisters, Jane Tharpe of Charlotte, Helen (Jack) Snedeker of Dixboro, and Sue (Gale) Trimble of Alma.

   Services were Dec. 15 at the Cook Memorial Chapel with Pastor Nat Carter officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Moyer Brown Scholarship or Morning Star in Jenison.

 

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Stephen Vanderpoorten

 

   Stephen Vanderpoorten, 88, of Dearborn died June 21, 1997, at Heartland Healthcare, Dearborn Heights, after an extended illness.

   Mr. Vanderpoorten was born in Martin, Ill., the son of Stephen and Florence (Meinhard) Vanderpoorten.  He was a retired fire protection engineer.

   He is survived by his wife, Janet (Landon) Vanderpoorten (formerly of the Olivet/Springport area).

   Private services were held.  Interment was in the Springport Cemetery.  Arrangements were made by the Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions are suggested to the Leader Dog School, Rochester, MI.

 

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Allyn F. Van Dyke

 

   Allyn F. Van Dyke, 75, of Almont died March 10, 1997, at his home.

   Mr. Van Dyke was born Oct. 22, 1921, in Eaton County, the son of Azell and Agnes (Badger) Van Dyke.  He was a graduate of Michigan State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in 1943, and master’s degree in animal husbandry from Iowa State University in 1949.  He was a veteran of World War II, having served as a captain in the Army with H.Co 309th Infantry Regiment, Second Battalion, 78th Division.  He was awarded two Purple Hearts and two Bronze Stars.  He was a life member of VFW Post #2492, having been Post Commander for two years.  He served on the Almont Township Zoning Board and Board of Appeals for a total of 39 years.  He was president of the Lapeer Co. Intern School District Board of Education for 29 years and a board member for 30 years.  He was a 4-H club Council member for many years.  After retiring from farming, he volunteered as an assistant with the Almont High School track and cross-country teams.  He attended the First Congregational Church, Almont.  He married Ada Hough, March 8, 1947.

   He is survived by his wife, Ada; five children, David (Elizabeth) of Viroqua, Wis., Linda (Donald) Eppelheimer of LaCrescent, Minn., Julene Van Dyke of Lapeer, Sylvia (Louis Horvath) Van Dyke of Princeton, N.J., Steven (Kimberly) of Almont and foster son, Andrew (Felicia) Davis of Fremont, Calif.; 12 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

   Services were March 12 at the First Congregational Church, Almont, with the Rev. Larry Rieck officiating.  Interment was in the Fort Custer National Cemetery, Battle Creek.  Arrangements were made by the Muir Brothers Funeral Home. 

   Memorial contributions may be made to the McLaren Hospice Service, Lapeer, or the First Congregational Church in Almont.

 

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Jacob Van Vessem

 

   Jacob Van Vessem, 92, died July 2, 1997.

   Mr. Van Vessem taught at Charlotte High School, served in WWII with the United States Army Air Corp, worked with the Post-War Veterans Administration, and many years as a Social Services director at the former Sunshine Hospital.

   He is survived by his sister, Gertrude Van Tuinen of Wisconsin; and many nieces and nephews.  He is preceded in death by his wife, Vivian.

   A gathering to honor the memories of Jack and Vivian was held at the Ten Have-Tuck cottages on Clear Bottom Lake on July 6.  Cremation has already taken place.  Arrangements were done by the Memorial Alternatives.

 

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Wilma R. Vedder

 

   Wilma R. Vedder, 91, of Olivet died June 9, 1997, at the Tendercare Nursing Home after a lengthy illness.

   Mrs. Vedder was born in Avon, Ohio, the daughter of William and Oma (Cornell) Barrett.  She has been an Olivet resident since 1943 coming from Cleveland, Ohio.  Mrs. Vedder has been employed by Olivet College in the cafeteria, from which she retired in 1973 after 25 years of service.  She was a member of the Olivet Congregational Church and it’s Amy Storr/Emma Jo Circle.

   She is survived by two daughters, Phyllis and Lois; two sons, Thomas and Richard; 12 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and one brother, Roy.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Sherman, and three brothers, Richard, Carl, and Barrett.

   Graveside services were June 12 at the Olivet Cemetery with the Rev. Clark Hock officiating.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Olivet Congregational Church.

 

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Dr. Kenneth G. Volz, Jr.

 

   Dr. Kenneth G. Volz, Jr., 54, of Okemos died Dec. 22, 1997.

   Mr. Volz was born Oct. 15, 1943, in Ann Arbor.  He was a resident of Okemos for 25 years and was in practice there since 1972.  He graduated from the University of Michigan Dental School.

   He is survived by his wife, Carolyn L.; children, Shannon Lee (Bob) Bohl of San Diego, Calif., Nikki Lyn Volz of Okemos, Lacy Jo (Christopher) Lowry of Story City, Iowa, and Ryan C. Volz of Okemos; parents, Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth G. Volz, Sr. of Saline; sister, Beth Ann Spatz of Cincinnati, Ohio; and one niece and nephew.

   Services were Dec. 24 at the Gorsline-Runciman Co. East Chapel, East Lansing.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

 

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Harry V. Walker

 

   Harry V. Walker, 79, of Charlotte died Nov. 24, 1997, at Michigan Capital Medical Center, Pennsylvania Campus, Lansing.

   Mr. Walker was born in Olivet, the son of Otis Vern and Carerie (Van Orman) Walker and had been a life resident of Eaton County.  He was a 1936 graduate of Olivet High School, member of the First Congregational Church, Charlotte, life member of Olivet Lodge #267 F&AM, and the Eaton County Farm Bureau.  He had been a mail clerk at Michigan State University from 1946-82.  Prior to that, he worked for the former Blue ribbon Creamery in Charlotte.

   He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Marjorie (Williamson); one daughter, Carol Ann Harter of Yorba Linda, Calif.; one son, Larry of Holt; five grandchildren; and one sister, Florence Ledyard of Charlotte.

   Services were Nov. 26 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Peter Brenner and Olivet Lodge #267 F&AM officiating.  Interment was in the Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

 

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Mary Jane Ward

 

   Mary Jane (Brunette) Ward, 52, of Sault Ste. Marie, formerly of Grand Ledge, died Dec. 5, 1997.

   She is survived by one daughter, Rebecca (Rory) Goodwin of Gaylord; two sons, Michael (Wendy) of Sault Ste. Marie and Brian of Portage; six grandchildren; her father, Richard Brunette of Charlotte; two sisters, Bonnie Evart of Ionia and Denise Pate of Texas; one brother, Michael Brunette of Eaton Rapids; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

   Mass was held Dec. 9 at St. Michael Catholic Church, Grand Ledge, with the Rev. Fr. Robert McGraw as celebrant.  Interment was in the Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge.  Arrangements were made by Holihan-Atkin Funeral Home.

 

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Frances E. Warner

 

   Frances E. Warner, 97, of Charlotte, formerly of Mulliken, died Sept. 19, 1997, at the Maplewood Adult Foster Care.

   Mrs. Warner was born July 10, 1900, in Bowne Township, the daughter of David and Lydia (English) Holcomb.  She was a member of the Mulliken United Methodist Church and the Girls of Yesterday.

   She is survived by one son, James (Edna) Warner of Charlotte; six grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Paul Holcomb of Florida and Gaylord Holcomb of Middleville.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Alva, and one daughter, Marie.

   Services were Sept. 22 at the Barker-Leik Funeral Home, Mulliken, with Pastor Don Woolum officiating.  Interment was in the Meadowbrook Cemetery.

 

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James R. Warner

 

   James R. Warner, 73, of Charlotte died Nov. 24, 1997, at his residence after an extended illness.

   Mr. Warner was born in Berlin Township, Ionia County, the son of Lewis and Frances Holkomb) Warner and had been a Charlotte resident since 1965.  He had been employed at Motor Wheel Corp., Lansing, retiring in 1980 after 36 years of service.  He served in the U.S. Army during World War II, was a life member of Maple City VFW Post #2406, Charlotte, Charlotte Eagles Aerie #3552, and the Oddfellow and Rebekah lodges, both of Charlotte.

   He is survived by his wife, Edna Mae (Maggard); one son, James (Kay) of Lansing; two daughters, Sharon (Tom) King of Onondaga and Bobbi (John) Voorhees of Colorado Springs, Colo.; two stepsons, Carroll (Nancy) Combs of Neon, Ken., and Harold Combs of Rodney; 17 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and one daughter-in-law, Dawn Combs of Olivet.

   He was preceded in death by his parents, one stepson, Darrell Combs, and one sister, Inez Marie Warner.

   Services were Nov. 28 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Jeffrey Nunham and the Charlotte Oddfellow and Rebekah lodges officiating.  Military graveside services and interment were in the Bosworth Cemetery, Olivet.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice.

 

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Gary A. Watling

 

   Gary A. Watling, 50, of Eaton Rapids died Jan. 14, 1997.

   Mr. Watling was born Aug. 11, 1946, in Battle Creek, the son of Howard and Mary Emeretta (Rice) Watling.  He was a 1965 graduate of Charlotte High School and attended the Eaton Rapids Wesleyan Church.  He was a member of the Capital Area Sportsman’s League and was formerly employed at the VFW National Home, Eaton Rapids.

   He is survived by his wife of 27 years, Charlene; son, James Watling of Lansing; brother, Glen Watling of Graham, WA; sister, Phyllis (Jon) Bodoly of Coldwater; father and mother-in-law, Anthony and Betty Proctor Sr. of Eaton Rapids; and several nieces and nephews.

   He was preceded in death by one brother, Wayne Watling, and one sister, Doris Smith.

   Services and tribute were Jan. 18 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Dennis Perkins officiating.  Interment was in the Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Wesleyan Church Future Building Fund.

 

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John W. Weber

 

   John W. Weber, 90, of Olivet died Nov. 30, 1997, at the Twin Creeks Adult Foster Care, Olivet, after an extended illness.

   Mr. Weber was born in Henrico, Va.; the son of John and Rosa (Clark) Weber.  He has been a resident of Lee Township, Calhoun County, since 1915.  He was a lifelong dairy and grain farmer.  He attended the former Lee Center School, had been a member of the Methodist church where he had served as Sunday School treasurer, and had been a member of the former Olivet Grange and Eaton County Pomona Grange.

   There are no immediate survivors, but a host of close friends and caregivers.

   Services were Dec. 3 at the Burkhead-Green Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. Valerie Hill officiating.  Interment was in the Lee Center Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made directly to the charity of one’s choice.

 

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Martha Wellman

 

   Martha Wellman, 76, of Vermontville died Aug. 15, 1997, at Sparrow Hospital.

   Mrs. Wellman was born June 10, 1921, the daughter of William and Mildred Worstell (Melbrain) in Uniontown, Penn.  She married Keith Wellman of Sunfield in 1992.

   She is survived by one daughter, Charlene King; two sons, Richard (Joyce) Buckley and Robert (Ruth) Buckley; 21 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

   She was preceded in death by her first husband, Marvin Buckley, and one son, Roger Buckley.

   Services were Aug. 19 at the Sunfield United Methodist Church with the Rev. Harris Hoekwater officiating.  Interment was in the North Eagle Cemetery.

   Arrangements were made by the Rosier Funeral Home Mapes-Fisher Chapel, Sunfield.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Sunfield United Methodist Church or the family.

 

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Lois I. Wesh

 

   Lois Irene (Carpenter) Wesh, 94, of Charlotte died March 14, 1997.

   Mrs. Wesh was born Aug. 25, 1902, in Marshall, the daughter of Edwin and Margaret (McInroy) Carpenter.  She attended school in Marshall and Battle Creek and was employed for 25 years with the former American-Marsh Pumps and then worked with her husband at Wesh Tax and Accounting Service until his death.  She married Lester Wesh Jan. 21, 1934, in Angola, Ind.  She was a member of the Marshall Women’s Club.

   She is survived by her daughter, Jeanne (Albert) Sidnam of Charlotte; one granddaughter, Irene Sidnam of Lansing; five great-grandchildren, Mary Margaret Hall of Potterville, Steve (Alicia) Courtright and Lorraine Cady of Lansing, Tammy Courtright of Missouri, and Amy Powell of Florida; two great-great-grandchildren, Ashli Hall and Sara Courtright; and one nephew, Thomas Parkinson of Detroit.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Lester; one granddaughter, Margaret Caruthers; and two sisters, Mabel Buckinham and Janet Parkinson.

   There will be no services.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

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Robert E. West

 

   Robert E. West, 77, of Eaton Rapids died Jan. 29, 1997, at his residence.

   Mr. West was born Dec. 1, 1919, in Eaton Rapids, the son of Alva and Vera (Decker) West.  He was a lifelong resident of Eaton Rapids, served with the 63rd Army Infantry during World War II, and retired from Teamster’s Union Local #580.  He was an active volunteer in the community; a life member of the F&AM Lodge #63 and life member of OES #241, both of Eaton Rapids; member of American Legion Harold Teeter Post #15 Eaton Rapids; past president of the Eaton Rapids Rotary Club; and member of the Eaton Rapids Wesleyan Church.

   He is survived by two sisters, Norabelle Reese of Eaton Rapids and Darlene (Roger) Sederlund of Charlotte; goddaughter, Natascha Ferguson of Gaylord; four nieces and nephews, Ann (Jack) Seger of Springport, Donaldine (Leonard) Fulcher of Eaton Rapids, Rick (Donna) Sederlund, and Stacy (Joe) Edick all of Charlotte.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Maxine (Swartz) in 1988.

   Services were Feb. 1 at the Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Dennis Perkins officiating.  Masonic services were Jan. 31, conducted by Eaton Rapids F&AM #63 with Kenneth Spencer as Chaplin.  Graveside military services were conducted by the Harold Teeter Post #15 at the Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Rapids Wesleyan Church.

 

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Abraham C. Wheeler

 

   Abraham “A.C.” Cowles Wheeler, 95, of Charlotte died Jan. 31, 1997.

   Mr. Wheeler was born Sept. 14, 1901, in Bloomingdale, the son of Obiadiah, and Lula (Conn) Wheeler.  He was a streetcar operator in Lansing while in college, worked for many years in the transportation department, and had been a bus supervisor for the Potterville School System until his retirement.  He was a member of the Potterville United Methodist Church.

   He is survived by two sons, James of Nashville, and Paul of Detroit; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; three sisters, Clara Tessman of Traverse City, Esther (Earl) Randall of Grand Rapids, and Marguerite Zimmerman of Dimondale; and one daughter-in-law, Mary Wheeler of Dansville.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret, and one son, Gardner.

 

 

 

   Services were Feb. 4 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with Pastor John Buker officiating.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

 

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Harold G. Whitaker

 

   Harold George Whitaker, 86, of Charlotte died March 21, 1997, at his residence after a short illness.

   Mr. Whitaker was born in Eaton Township, Eaton County, the son of George and Nellie (Andrews) Whitaker and had been a lifelong Eaton County resident.  He was a lifelong farmer and had been employed by the Eaton County Road Commission retiring in 1975 after 22 years of service.

   He is survived by his wife, Irene (Tyler); children, Steve (Diane) of Bellevue, Connie (Herb) Ames and Rodney (Vicki) all of Charlotte, Dan (Michelle) of Potterville, Jacqueline (David) Ames of Charlotte, and Virgil (Pat) Carter of Flint; 15 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Laura Little of Charlotte and Myrtle Hillard of Eaton Rapids.  He was preceded in death by daughter Jean Carter Fuller, in 1983.

   Services were March 24 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with grandson Pastor Michael Fuller and Pastor Scoot Brood officiating. 

 

 

 

Interment was in the Center Eaton Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

 

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Alta L. White

 

   Alta L. (Peterson) White, 91, of Eaton Rapids, died Aug. 15, 1997.

   Mrs. White was the daughter of Darius Harold and Gertrude Ellen (Huntington) Peterson.  She was a member of the Griffith United Methodist Church and very active in Rebekah Sunshine Lodge #142.

   She is survived by one sister, Helen Eglon of Springport; two sisters-in-law, Beatrice Soderberg of Lansing and Doris Peterson of Florida; several nieces, nephews, and one grand niece, Kimberlee (Dan) Lindeman of Onstead.

   She was preceded in death by three brothers, Harold, Lyle, and Elmer Peterson.

   Services were Aug. 18 at the Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Robert Krauss officiating and memorial tribute by the Eaton Rapids Rebekah Sunshine Lodge.  Arrangements were made by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.

 

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H. Rhuel Wickham

 

   H. Rhuel Wickham, 86, of Charlotte died June 29, 1997, at the Tendercare Nursing Home, Marshall, after an extended illness.

   Mr. Wickham was born in Charlotte, the son of Warren and Inah (Weaver) Wickham.  He lived most of his life in Charlotte and Benton, Ken., for several years after retiring, returning to Charlotte about five years ago.  He had been a milk carrier for the farmer Orchard Grove Dairy, school bus driver for the Charlotte schools, and had also been employed by the Callender Sign Co., Charlotte.  He was also a member of the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church, Charlotte, and while living in Benton, attended the First Methodist Church there.

   He is survived by one daughter, Joyce Bearden of Kentucky; one granddaughter; two grandsons; and one sister, Ruth Laubaugh of Hastings.

   He was preceded in death by his wife, Doris; one daughter, Sharon Lee; and one brother, Glen.

   Services were held on July 1 at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel, Charlotte, with the Rev. George Fleming officiating.  Interment was in the Maple Hill Cemetery.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church.

 

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Florence I. Wilbur

 

   Florence I. Wilbur, 63, of Vestaburg died unexpectedly July 4, 1997, in her home.

   Mrs. Wilbur was born January 7, 1934, in Belolt, Wisconsin, the daughter of Alexander and Katherine (Wolff) Felder.  She retired from the telephone company and enjoyed various handicrafts, paintings, quilting, and doll collecting.

   She is survived by her husband, Wayne; daughter, Sharon (Leslie) Eaton of Schoolcraft; three grandchildren; sister, Dolores Young of Lansing; brothers, Henry Felder of East Tawas, John Felder of Alabama, and Alex Felder, Jr. of N.J.

   Services were July 9 at Barker-Leik Funeral Home, Mulliken.  Interment in Meadowbrook Cemetery, Mulliken.

 

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Joslyn E. Wiles

 

   Joslyn Evaline Wiles, 57, of Palm Springs, Calif., died May 29, 1997, of a heart attack at Eisenhower Hospital in Palm Desert, Calif.

   Mrs. Wiles was born May 22, 1940 in Evansville, Ind., the daughter of O. Joshua and Hazel (Burge) Wiles.  She graduated from Charlotte High School and studied piano at Oberlin Conservatory in Ohio and liberal arts at Olivet College.  She also studied ballet for 13 years at the Virgiline Simmons Studio, was a member of the Charlotte Oriole Band, and was a member of Job’s Daughters Bethel #1 in Charlotte.  She had been a legal secretary, executive secretary, and piano teacher until being totally disabled by kidney disease in 1976.  She remained on hemodialysis for 21 years.

   She is survived by her mother, Hazel; one daughter, Jacqueline; and two grandsons, A.J. and Josh.

   She was preceded in death by her father, Oliver Joshua.

   A private memorial gathering for friends and family is to be held in Desert Hot Springs.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Kidney Foundation.

 

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George R. Willard

 

   George Ramsdell Willard, 71, of Charlotte died March 19, 1997.

   Mr. Willard was born Nov. 22, 1925.  He was a World War II  veteran, serving with the Army Air Corps.  He was the retired owner of McGrath-DeFoe Printing Co. in Charlotte and past publisher of the Charlotte Republican Tribune.  He was a past president of the Charlotte Kiwanis Club, member of the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church, former Scoutmaster of Troop #46, and a life member of Charlotte Lodge #120 F&AM and Maple City Chapter #218 OES.

   He is survived by his wife, Irene; two daughters, Karen Willard of Wyoming and Susan (Dennis) Willard-Wages of Charlotte; two sons, Steven (Patricia) and Kenneth, both of Charlotte; three grandchildren, Erik, Stacey, and Alex; and two sisters, Lois (Ben) DeWitt of Nacogdoches, Texas, and Joanne (Robert) Mohre of Charlotte.

   Services were March 22 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Vern Summers officiating.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church, Charlotte.

 

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Dorothy M. Williams

 

   Dorothy M. Williams, 75, of Eaton Rapids died Sept. 2, 1997, in Eaton Rapids.

   Mrs. Williams was born April 18, 1922, in Marion, Ill., the daughter of Harry and M. and Annabelle (Crane) Sutton.  She was a member of the Eaton Rapids First United Methodist Church and the Order of Eastern Star #241, Eaton Rapids.  Mrs. Williams had been past president of the Eaton Rapids Tuesday Musicale.  She was formerly employed with the Olivet College in the Registrar’s Office and retired from the State of Michigan, Insurance Bureau in 1987.

   She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Max; two daughters, Barbara Payne of Eaton Rapids, and Jayne (Jan) Stucky of Georgia; son, Max (Louise) Williams, Jr. of Ohio; 6 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Reba (Dewey) Fuller of Williamston, Alice Miller of Eaton Rapids, and Shirley Cude.

   She is preceded in death by her daughter, Ruth; and her brother, Jimmy.

   Services were Sept. 5 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with the Pastor Tom Evans officiating.  Interment followed at Oakwood Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church, Music Program.

 

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Keith D. Williams

 

   Keith Douglas Williams, 48, of Charlotte died March 21, 1997.

   Mr. Williams was born June 16, 1948, in Lansing, the son of Fred and Winifred Field.  He had been employed by Motor Wheel in Lansing for 15 years and Wyeth/Ayerst in Mason for 10 years.

   He is survived by his wife, Marta; one son, John Williams of Lansing; one daughter, Laura Williams of Lansing; one granddaughter, Jalen Hauser of Lansing; his parents, Fred and Winifred Field of Mecosta; one step-daughter, Kelly (Scott) and grandchildren, Jenna, Delaney and Hunter; one step-son, Russell; one brother, Gale (Diane) Williams of Mt. Pleasant; one uncle, John Parish of Clare; two nieces, Kathy (Kenneth) Packholka and son, Kenny of Oscoda, and Debie (Don) Cunningham and children, Shelby and Nathan of Stuttgart, Germany.

   He was preceded in death by his brother, Gary Williams; and one grandson, Eric Hauser.

   Services were March 26 at the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Peter R.K. Brenner officiating.  Interment was in the Glendale Cemetery, Okemos.

 

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Emesteen E. Windon

 

   Emesteen E. Windon, 63, of Charlotte, formerly of Battle Creek and Lake Odessa, died March 11, 1997, at Community Hospital, Battle Creek, after a long illness.

   Mrs. Windon was born in Gip, W.Va., the daughter of William and Gertrude (Atkinson) Holcomb and had been a Charlotte resident for nine years, coming from Lake Odessa.

   She is survived by her husband of 46 years, Buddy; one daughter, Mary (John) Gearhart of Charlotte; two grandchildren; two sisters, Geraldine Stutler of Bedford, Ohio, and Kathleen Kus of North Carolina; and two brothers, Terry Holcomb of Colbert, Ga., and Johnny Holcomb of Enterprise, W.Va.

   She was preceded in death by one son, Douglas in 1960.

   Graveside services were March 14 at the Memorial Park Cemetery, Battle Creek.  Arrangements were made by the Burkhead-Green Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

 

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Irene Wittman

 

   Irene Wittman, 71, of Eaton Rapids died Oct. 30, 1997.

   Mrs. Wittman was born Nov. 26, 1925, in Salyersville, Ken., the daughter of Elliott and Gertrude (Whitaker) Risner.  She was a charter member of the Calvary Lutheran Church (WELS), Eaton Rapids.

   She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Alfred; two sons, Ronnie Wittman of Eaton Rapids, and Jerry (Tammy) Wittman of Charlotte; five sisters, Jewelene Anderson, Lorena (Ed) Jacks, May (Bill) Locke, and Joyce (Jim) Byron, all of Eaton Rapids, and Esther Risner of Lansing; and two brothers, Alden (Beverly) Risner and Mark (Jan) Risner, all of Eaton Rapids.

   She was preceded in death by one brother, Chalmer Risner, and one sister, Elsie Love.

   Services were Nov. 3 at the Calvary Lutheran Church with the Rev. Craig Korth officiating.  Interment was in the Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Calvary Lutheran Church Organ Fund.

 

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Ruth J. Wolcott

 

   Ruth Jane Wolcott, 73, of Charlotte died Sept. 7, 1997.

   Mrs. Wolcott was born Dec. 10, 1923, in Charlotte, the daughter of Bruce and Esther (Howard) Barrett.  She retired from the Eaton County District Court in 1973.

   She is survived by her daughter, Rocksan (Bill) Kelly of Eaton Rapids; son, David Wolcott of Charlotte; 6 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; sisters, Jeannette (Bud) Tinkey of Charlotte, and Donna (Oscar) Face of Charlotte; sisters-in-law, Phyllis Barrett and Virginia Barrett.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas; son, Douglas; brothers, Jack Barrett and Tom Barrett.

   Services were Sept. 12 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with Charles Jenson officiating.  Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery.  Arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.  Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.

 

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Wesley R. Wood

 

   Wesley “Wes” R. Wood, 32, of Vermontville, formerly of Nashville, died March 16, 1997, at Hayes Green Beach Hospital, Charlotte.

   Mr. Wood was born Nov. 17, 1864, in Hastings, the son of Robert and Mary (Hummel) Wood.  He graduated from Maple Valley High School in 1983 and from Michigan State University in 1986 with a degree in electrical technology.  His employment includes Hickey Electric in Nashville and was currently employed at Union Pump in Battle Creek as an electrician.  He married Kim Roush Sept. 12, 1987, in Charlotte.

   He is survived by his wife, Kim; two children, Angie and Kelly at home; parents, bob and Mary Wood of Nashville; two brothers, Ken (Debbi) of Nashville, and Bob Jr. (Carleen) of Vermontville; one sister, Robbin Glass of Nashville; grandparents, Joel and Gladys Hummel of Vermontville, and Viola Wood of Hastings; mother and father-in-law, Ray and Marilyn Roush of Nashville; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

   He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Clara Belle Hummel; and grandfather, Lawerance Wood Sr.

   Services were March 19 at the Maple Valley Chapel-Genther Funeral Home, Nashville, with the Rev. Rob VanEngen officiating.  Interment was in the Lakeview Cemetery, Nashville.

 

 

 

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Wood children.

 

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Gerald O. Woodman

 

   Gerald O. Woodman, 77, of Battle Creek died Aug. 2, 1997.

   Mr. Woodman was born Jan. 13, 1920, in Eaton Rapids, the son of Charlie Anderson and Beulah Woodman.  He owned a service gas station.

   He is survived by his wife, Lena; two sons, Gerald (Charlene) and Danny of Battle Creek; one daughter, Penny Ann Wilke of Battle Creek; two brothers, Robert (Marles) of Colorado and Bud (Mike) of Ohio; one sister, Jean Walter of Colorado; and six grandchildren.

   Services were Aug. 8 at the Bosworth Cemetery.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   In lieu of flowers, the family requests fund donation be made to Borgess Intensive Care Unit or Visiting Nurses of Battle Creek.

 

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Fred T. Wright

 

   Fred Thomas Wright, 81, of Charlotte died Sept. 12, 1997.

   Mr. Wright was born May 6, 1916, in Chester Township Eaton County, the son of Fred Thomas and Emma (Zimmerman) Wright.  He worked as a truck driver for Johnson Lumber co. for 27 years.  He was a member of the Conservation Corp.

   He is survived by his daughter, Doris (Thomas) Moran of Eaton Rapids, Dorothy (Robert) Bennett of Battle Creek, and Dorene Bearndt of Eaton Rapids; two sons, Dick (Stephanie) Wright of Eaton Rapids and Phillip Thomas of Detroit; 12 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Vivian Meeder of Eaton Rapids and Catherine Brown of Charlotte.

   He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary.

   Services were Sept. 15 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with the Rev. Steve Erkel officiating.  Interment was at Gresham Cemetery, Charlotte.

   Funeral arrangements were made by Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

 

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Betty J. Young

 

   Betty J. Young, 70, of Venice died May 18, 1997.

   Mrs. Young was born June 23, 1926 in Bath.  She retired in 1968 as an assembly line worker for the Eaton Stamping Corp. after 10 years.  She worked and volunteered as a caregiver in Venice.  She was a Lutheran. 

   She is survived by her three daughters, Carol Lemm of Englewood, Ellen Pruden of Charlotte, and Bonnie McCoy of Battle Creek; son, Oswin Haines of Olivet; two sisters, Meg Barnhart of Holt and Genevieve Dear of Nokomis; 19 grandchildren; 43 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

   She is preceded in death by her daughter, Batty Grant (Haines).  Graveside service will be at Chapel Hill in Lansing on July 23, 1997.

 

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Dale Arden Youngs

 

   Dale Arden Youngs, 62, of Potterville died July 6, 1997.

   Mr. Youngs was born March 11, 1935, in Lansing, the son of Alan King and Delores Leila (Davidson) Youngs.  He worked in parking and security at the State of Michigan Management and Budget.  He also served in the Marines from 1953-1955.

   He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Janice; daughters, Anita (Larry) Ruffner of Vermontville, and Amy (Marty) Whitehead of Stockbridge; 2 granddaughters; mother, Dolores Youngs of Elk Rapids; sisters, LaCorda (Richard) Smith of Elk Rapids, and Ardis (William) McLellan of Charlotte, N.C.

   He is preceded in death by his father, Alan; brother, Royce; and sister, Joyce.

   Services were July 9 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, with Rev. Paul Bailey officiating.  Interment will be in Deepdale Cemetery in Lansing.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Hayes Green Beach Hospital.

 

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Betty Lou Ziegler

 

   Betty Lou (Speyer) Ziegler, 82, of Fernwood Manor Trailer Park, Bolton, died April 15, 1997.

   Mrs. Ziegler was born Dec. 16, 1914, to Edward and Eva (Bailey) Speyer of Toledo, Ohio.

   She is survived by her husband, Philip; two daughters, Diane (Paul) Hudson and Roxanne (William) Wolcott; one son, Greg (Judy) Ziegler; ten grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

   She was preceded in death by two brothers, Howard and Edward Speyer.

   Services were April 19 at the Gifford Funeral Home, Richmond.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Friends of Waterbury Village Public Library, 28 N. Main St., Waterbury, Vt.  05676.

 

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Pauline M. Zima

 

   Pauline Madaline Zima, 84, of Charlotte died May 10, 1997.

   Mrs. Zima was born in Gary, Ind., the daughter of Andrew and Victoria Michalski.  She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Charlotte and its Altar Society.

   She is survived by three daughters, Carolyn of Charlotte, Margaret Johnson of Eaton Rapids and Shirley (George) Melvin of Albion; three grandchildren, Todd Burford and Stacey and Aaron Johnson; two step-grandchildren, Melissa and Travis Melvin; one brother, Matthew (Ella Mae) Michalski; one sister-in-law, Rhoda Michalski; and several nieces and nephews. During her lengthy illness she had a devoted and loving home care nurse, Maxine Collard, and other devoted care givers.

   She was preceded in death by her husband, Albert; two sisters; and three brothers.

   Services were May 14 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Charlotte.  Interment was in the West Carmel Cemetery.  Arrangements were made by the Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

   Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s or the Tri-County Office on Aging.

 

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Grietje (Grace) Zomerman-Luxema

 

   Grietje (Grace) Geessientje Zomerman Luxema, 88, of East Lansing and formerly of Potterville, died Oct. 4, 1997 in Burcham Hills.

   She was born Sept. 15, 1909, in The Netherlands, the daughter of Willem and Aaltje (Dontje) Luxema.

   She is survived by sons, Tonnis (Tonny) (and Bernadine Kay) Zomerman of Potterville and Willem (Bill) (and Judith Irene) Zomerman of Grand Ledge; a sister, Ge’ Lenting Luxema; and a brother, Harm Jan (Jopie) Luxema, both of The Netherlands; grandchildren, Irene, Joan, and Edd; and great-grandchildren, Courtney, Alex, and Catherine.

   She was predeceased by her husband, Siverdinus Zomerman, in 1972.

   Funeral services were Oct. 8 at Pray Funeral Home, with the Rev. Art Salisbury officiating.

 

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Obituaries compiled by Marlena Arras

From the Charlotte Shopping Guide

April 2000