Matthew J. Tuttle
Of Chelsea, Michigan
Age 28, died in the line of duty Thursday, April 13, 2006. He was born December 15, 1977 in Ann Arbor, Michigan the son of Thomas and Janet (Paul) Tuttle. He had lived in Chelsea all of his life. He worked for his family’s business, Tuttle Spring Designs from 1986-2000. He graduated from Chelsea High School in 1996, and received his Bachelor’s of Applied Sciences from Siena Heights in January 2006. Matt was a Captain for the Chelsea Fire Authority since April of 2006, serving since 1997, and also worked for Huron Valley Ambulance since 1998. He was also enrolled in the Police Academy for Chelsea Reserves. He was a Washtenaw Co. Medical Examiner trainee for one year. He was president and past board member of Lake LeAnne Properties Owner’s Association. Matt was also a helicopter and private plane pilot. On July 31, 2004 he married Mary K. Lisznyai in Mackinaw Island, and she survives. Also surviving are his parents of Jerome, MI, his mother-in-law Pamela, of Chelsea, grandparents Richard and Mary Kalmbach of Gregory, brother Marc Tuttle, of Chelsea, sister-in-law Kris Loucks of Chelsea, nieces Andrea and Brianna Loucks, nephews Jacob Broese and Christopher Lisznyai, niece Jessica Lisznyai, aunts Elaine (Wayne) Quick of Holt, Roberta (Gary) Hohenberger of Ann Arbor, several cousins including Trisha and J.D. Daniels of Lansing, Matt (Bonnie) Lennox also of Lansing. He also leaves behind his special search and rescue dog Blaise, and cat Snickers. He was preceded in death by his father-in-law Michael Lisznyai and sister-in-law Tammy Lisznyai, maternal grandparents Edwin ’Bo’ and Thelma Paul, and paternal grandparents Leo (Ellen) Tuttle. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, April 18, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 N. Main St., Chelsea, with Rev. Mearl Bradley and Rev. Larry Lyons co-officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Sunday from 7-9 p.m. and Monday 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the family, or the Chelsea Fire Authority Auxiliary.
Noel C. Laraway
Of Chelsea
Age 73 died at St Joseph Mercy Hospital on April 8, 2006. She was born the daughter of the late John A. and Ella S. (Peterson) McMillan on November 20, 1932 in Ironwood Michigan. Noel enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and would make them macaroni and cheese. She would also cook for other people and entertain at her house, where she was known for asking ’Are you hungry?’ She also had a long standing appointment with Carol for coffee. Noel is survived by her children Patti (John) Schick of Chelsea, Pam Laraway-Dietz of Chelsea, and John Jr. (Rose) Laraway of Howell. Also surviving are her grandchildren Sarah (Marty) Sherwood; Jay (Mindy) Schick, Margaret Schick; JT, Linda and Jacob Laraway; Gary and Sean Sabin; as well as one great grandchild, Andrew Sherwood. She is also survived by her ex husband John Sr., also survivng is her special family friend Carol Satterthwaite. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her sister Charlotte Osinski. Funeral services will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 11, 2006 at 4:00 p.m. with Deacon Tom Franklin officiating. A private burial will be held at later date. Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Jude’s Children Hospital. The family will receive friend at the funeral home on Monday from 4 to 9 p.m. and again on Tuesday from 3 p.m. until the time of service. Arrangements are by the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral home.
Of Chelsea
Age 73 died at St Joseph Mercy Hospital on April 8, 2006. She was born the daughter of the late John A. and Ella S. (Peterson) McMillan on November 20, 1932 in Ironwood Michigan. Noel enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and would make them macaroni and cheese. She would also cook for other people and entertain at her house, where she was known for asking ’Are you hungry?’ She also had a long standing appointment with Carol for coffee. Noel is survived by her children Patti (John) Schick of Chelsea, Pam Laraway-Dietz of Chelsea, and John Jr. (Rose) Laraway of Howell. Also surviving are her grandchildren Sarah (Marty) Sherwood; Jay (Mindy) Schick, Margaret Schick; JT, Linda and Jacob Laraway; Gary and Sean Sabin; as well as one great grandchild, Andrew Sherwood. She is also survived by her ex husband John Sr., also survivng is her special family friend Carol Satterthwaite. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her sister Charlotte Osinski. Funeral services will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 11, 2006 at 4:00 p.m. with Deacon Tom Franklin officiating. A private burial will be held at later date. Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Jude’s Children Hospital. The family will receive friend at the funeral home on Monday from 4 to 9 p.m. and again on Tuesday from 3 p.m. until the time of service. Arrangements are by the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral home.
James ’June’ Robert Schmidt
Dansville, Michigan
Beloved son of Richard J. and Ruth E. (Hicks) Schmidt, born July 17, 1979 in Lansing, MI. Died suddenly at home April 6, 2006. James enjoyed all sports. He was an avid Michigan and Detroit fan. He also loved boxing, weight lifting and hunting with his grandfather, uncles and brothers. James loved spending time with his family and friends, and dog celine. Besides his parents, James is survived by his brothers Jesse G. (Gina) Schmidt and Ron L. (Jessica) Schmidt. Grandparents Kenneth (Paw) and Nella (Granny) Hicks, and Richard O. and Margery M. Schmidt. Nephews: Jim, Josh, Joey and Samuel, and niece, Elaina. Aunts: Clata (Ken) Raines, Mary (David) Flannery and Christine (Bob) Rogers. Uncles: Ken (Ginger) Hicks, Ron (Amy) Hicks, Don (Heather) Hicks, Robert Schmidt, Steve (Pam) Schmidt, Lary (Jennifer) Schmidt, Eric (Edwinna) Schmidt and Uncle Ed Schroeder. Numerous cousins and dear friends. James will be missed by everyone. Funeral service will be Monday, April 10 at 11:00 a.m., at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home in Stockbridge, with Rev. Ed Roark officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday, April 9, 2006 from 6-9 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Dansville High School Football Program.
Dansville, Michigan
Beloved son of Richard J. and Ruth E. (Hicks) Schmidt, born July 17, 1979 in Lansing, MI. Died suddenly at home April 6, 2006. James enjoyed all sports. He was an avid Michigan and Detroit fan. He also loved boxing, weight lifting and hunting with his grandfather, uncles and brothers. James loved spending time with his family and friends, and dog celine. Besides his parents, James is survived by his brothers Jesse G. (Gina) Schmidt and Ron L. (Jessica) Schmidt. Grandparents Kenneth (Paw) and Nella (Granny) Hicks, and Richard O. and Margery M. Schmidt. Nephews: Jim, Josh, Joey and Samuel, and niece, Elaina. Aunts: Clata (Ken) Raines, Mary (David) Flannery and Christine (Bob) Rogers. Uncles: Ken (Ginger) Hicks, Ron (Amy) Hicks, Don (Heather) Hicks, Robert Schmidt, Steve (Pam) Schmidt, Lary (Jennifer) Schmidt, Eric (Edwinna) Schmidt and Uncle Ed Schroeder. Numerous cousins and dear friends. James will be missed by everyone. Funeral service will be Monday, April 10 at 11:00 a.m., at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home in Stockbridge, with Rev. Ed Roark officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday, April 9, 2006 from 6-9 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Dansville High School Football Program.
Jo Anne Makeever
April 7, 1929 to April 3, 2006
Age 76, died quietly Monday evening, April 3, 2006. Jo Anne was born on April 7, 1929 in St. Joseph, MO, the daughter of Henry and Hildred (Hannah) Toel. Jo Anne moved with her family to Ann Arbor, MI in 1974, then to her daughter Katherine’s horse farm in Manchester, MI after her retirement. Jo Anne was a member of Bethel United Church of Christ and the Southern Michigan McGown Rug Hookcrafters. She married Jack Edwin Makeever in 1949 in St. Joseph, Missouri. He died on September 5th, 1988. Jo Anne was preceded in death by her mother, Hildred Toel and her father Henry Toel. Survivors include her daughter Anne Toel Makeever of St. Louis, MO, daughter Katherine Toel Farr of Manchester, MI, and her son Tom Toel Makeever of Jacksonville, FL; her grandsons Travis Farr and Evan Makeever McFarland; her granddaughters Ashley Ann Farr, Kelsey Alexandra Makeever and Cameron Olivia Makeever. Jo Anne was an artist, whether her medium was acrylic paint and canvas, her large garden or her beautiful hooked rugs. Her family was the anchor of her life and she enjoyed spending time with them, whether on vacations together, visits to their homes or Christmas holidays at her home, of which she was especially fond. She enthusiastically enjoyed hunting for antiques, amassed a collection of antique stuffed bears and loved chocolate desserts. She will be missed by her dachshund, George, and those whose lives she touched. There will be a funeral service at the Bethel United Church of Christ Friday, April 7, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. Flowers are welcome or donations may be made in her memory to Bethel United Church of Christ, 10425 Bethel Church Rd., Manchester, MI, 48158. Arrangements by the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.
April 7, 1929 to April 3, 2006
Age 76, died quietly Monday evening, April 3, 2006. Jo Anne was born on April 7, 1929 in St. Joseph, MO, the daughter of Henry and Hildred (Hannah) Toel. Jo Anne moved with her family to Ann Arbor, MI in 1974, then to her daughter Katherine’s horse farm in Manchester, MI after her retirement. Jo Anne was a member of Bethel United Church of Christ and the Southern Michigan McGown Rug Hookcrafters. She married Jack Edwin Makeever in 1949 in St. Joseph, Missouri. He died on September 5th, 1988. Jo Anne was preceded in death by her mother, Hildred Toel and her father Henry Toel. Survivors include her daughter Anne Toel Makeever of St. Louis, MO, daughter Katherine Toel Farr of Manchester, MI, and her son Tom Toel Makeever of Jacksonville, FL; her grandsons Travis Farr and Evan Makeever McFarland; her granddaughters Ashley Ann Farr, Kelsey Alexandra Makeever and Cameron Olivia Makeever. Jo Anne was an artist, whether her medium was acrylic paint and canvas, her large garden or her beautiful hooked rugs. Her family was the anchor of her life and she enjoyed spending time with them, whether on vacations together, visits to their homes or Christmas holidays at her home, of which she was especially fond. She enthusiastically enjoyed hunting for antiques, amassed a collection of antique stuffed bears and loved chocolate desserts. She will be missed by her dachshund, George, and those whose lives she touched. There will be a funeral service at the Bethel United Church of Christ Friday, April 7, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. Flowers are welcome or donations may be made in her memory to Bethel United Church of Christ, 10425 Bethel Church Rd., Manchester, MI, 48158. Arrangements by the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.
Eleanor E. (’Ellie’) (Gilbert) Reynolds
Age 92, passed away peacefully in her sleep Wednesday, March 15, 2006. Ellie was born on September 16, 1913 in Highland Park, MI, the daughter of Alexander and Mary (Dearing) Gilbert. She spent much of her life in the North Lake (MI) area, which she cherished very much. Ellie was a member of the North Lake United Methodist Church since her childhood and was a member of Inverness Country Club at North Lake all of her adult life. On May 7, 1936, she married William D. (’Don’) Reynolds in Angola, Indiana. He passed away on April 6, 1985. Ellie was also preceded in death by an infant son, Alan Gilbert Reynolds; her sister, Mary Gilbert; her brother, Jack Gilbert; her mother, Mary (Dearing) Gilbert DeKarske; and her father, Alexander Gilbert. Survivors include her daughter, Cynthia (Cindy) (Reynolds) Perelman; son-in-law, Scott Perelman; and beloved grandson, Samuel Perelman, all of Monroe, MI. She is also survived by her sister, Catherine (Harold) Paul of Ann Arbor, MI; sister-in-law Sylvia Gilbert of North Lake (MI); sister-in-law Lois (Reynolds) Bush of Bakersfield, CA; as well as many loving nieces and nephews, their children and grandchildren. Ellie will be lovingly remembered for her competitive spirit, whether in golf, fishing, bowling, bingo, cards or any challenge. For many years, she was a tireless volunteer in area assisted living/nursing homes, playing the piano for residents to brighten their days. She served as the choir director and/or church organist at the North Lake United Methodist Church and served on various church committees for many years. She was a role model to many whose lives she touched. Cremation has taken place. There will be a memorial service at the North Lake United Methodist Church in the summer. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you may make a charitable donation in her memory to any of the following: North Lake United Methodist Church, 14111 N. Territorial Rd., Chelsea, MI, 48118; the Humane Society/animal shelter of your choice; or to the National Alliance for Autism Research c/o Autism Speaks, Team ’Nate the Great’, 99 Wall St., Princeton, NJ, 08054. Arrangements by the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.
Age 92, passed away peacefully in her sleep Wednesday, March 15, 2006. Ellie was born on September 16, 1913 in Highland Park, MI, the daughter of Alexander and Mary (Dearing) Gilbert. She spent much of her life in the North Lake (MI) area, which she cherished very much. Ellie was a member of the North Lake United Methodist Church since her childhood and was a member of Inverness Country Club at North Lake all of her adult life. On May 7, 1936, she married William D. (’Don’) Reynolds in Angola, Indiana. He passed away on April 6, 1985. Ellie was also preceded in death by an infant son, Alan Gilbert Reynolds; her sister, Mary Gilbert; her brother, Jack Gilbert; her mother, Mary (Dearing) Gilbert DeKarske; and her father, Alexander Gilbert. Survivors include her daughter, Cynthia (Cindy) (Reynolds) Perelman; son-in-law, Scott Perelman; and beloved grandson, Samuel Perelman, all of Monroe, MI. She is also survived by her sister, Catherine (Harold) Paul of Ann Arbor, MI; sister-in-law Sylvia Gilbert of North Lake (MI); sister-in-law Lois (Reynolds) Bush of Bakersfield, CA; as well as many loving nieces and nephews, their children and grandchildren. Ellie will be lovingly remembered for her competitive spirit, whether in golf, fishing, bowling, bingo, cards or any challenge. For many years, she was a tireless volunteer in area assisted living/nursing homes, playing the piano for residents to brighten their days. She served as the choir director and/or church organist at the North Lake United Methodist Church and served on various church committees for many years. She was a role model to many whose lives she touched. Cremation has taken place. There will be a memorial service at the North Lake United Methodist Church in the summer. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you may make a charitable donation in her memory to any of the following: North Lake United Methodist Church, 14111 N. Territorial Rd., Chelsea, MI, 48118; the Humane Society/animal shelter of your choice; or to the National Alliance for Autism Research c/o Autism Speaks, Team ’Nate the Great’, 99 Wall St., Princeton, NJ, 08054. Arrangements by the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.
Betty Thornsbury
Of Leslie
Age 56 died at Harper Hospital in Detroit on March 14, 2006. She was born the daughter of the late Charles M. and Ethel Mae (Arnett) Pugh on March 13, 1950 in Midland, Michigan. On June 8, 1968 in Bunker Hill Township she married William “Jr.” Thornsbury and he survives. Betty enjoyed going to the casinos, both in Vegas and Michigan. She also liked to read, roses of any kind and especially spending time with her family. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children Kim (Chris) Merrill of Dansville, Tonya (David) Bodell of Leslie, Nicki (Fiance Jesten Hansen) Thornsbury and a grand baby on way of Bunker Hill. Also surviving are her brothers and sisters; Mervin (Linda) Pugh of CO, Darles (Lois) Pugh of Leslie, Alex (Teresa) Pugh of Holt, Rosemary (Denny) Williams of Union City, TN and Viola (Dan) Taylor of Holt as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her brothers JB, Jasper and Charles M. Jr. Pugh and her sister Geneva Pugh. Expression of sympathy may be made at the funeral home. A Memorial Service will take place Friday, March 17 at 11:00 a.m. at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.
Of Leslie
Age 56 died at Harper Hospital in Detroit on March 14, 2006. She was born the daughter of the late Charles M. and Ethel Mae (Arnett) Pugh on March 13, 1950 in Midland, Michigan. On June 8, 1968 in Bunker Hill Township she married William “Jr.” Thornsbury and he survives. Betty enjoyed going to the casinos, both in Vegas and Michigan. She also liked to read, roses of any kind and especially spending time with her family. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children Kim (Chris) Merrill of Dansville, Tonya (David) Bodell of Leslie, Nicki (Fiance Jesten Hansen) Thornsbury and a grand baby on way of Bunker Hill. Also surviving are her brothers and sisters; Mervin (Linda) Pugh of CO, Darles (Lois) Pugh of Leslie, Alex (Teresa) Pugh of Holt, Rosemary (Denny) Williams of Union City, TN and Viola (Dan) Taylor of Holt as well as many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her brothers JB, Jasper and Charles M. Jr. Pugh and her sister Geneva Pugh. Expression of sympathy may be made at the funeral home. A Memorial Service will take place Friday, March 17 at 11:00 a.m. at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.
Shirley E. Messisco
of Chelsea, formerly of Brighton
Age 79 passed away at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital on March 13, 2006. She was born the daughter of the late Alfred and Myrtle (Chason) Sappenfield in High Point, North Carolina on July 28, 1926. On January 2, 1944 she married Daniel Messisco and he preceded her in death. Shirley enjoyed sewing making clothes and vestments; she enjoyed singing and swing dancing and was asked to travel with the USO; she was very artistic and creative as seen in her many gifts which she made for family and friends. Shirley is survived by her children; Gary (Kris) Messisco of Mt. Clemons, Daniel (Sawako) of Modesto, CA, John (Michele) of Stockbridge, Sharon (Glenn) Norris of Stuart, Florida, Donna (Don) Priebe of Pinckney, Mary Beth (Dennis) Gaetano of MN and Dennis Messisco of Brighton. Also surviving are 20 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren with one on the way as well as her sister; Kay (Ed) Norris of Red Springs NC. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her brother Gerald Sappenfield. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the American Lung Association. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home Chelsea, on Friday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. and on Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until noon.
of Chelsea, formerly of Brighton
Age 79 passed away at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital on March 13, 2006. She was born the daughter of the late Alfred and Myrtle (Chason) Sappenfield in High Point, North Carolina on July 28, 1926. On January 2, 1944 she married Daniel Messisco and he preceded her in death. Shirley enjoyed sewing making clothes and vestments; she enjoyed singing and swing dancing and was asked to travel with the USO; she was very artistic and creative as seen in her many gifts which she made for family and friends. Shirley is survived by her children; Gary (Kris) Messisco of Mt. Clemons, Daniel (Sawako) of Modesto, CA, John (Michele) of Stockbridge, Sharon (Glenn) Norris of Stuart, Florida, Donna (Don) Priebe of Pinckney, Mary Beth (Dennis) Gaetano of MN and Dennis Messisco of Brighton. Also surviving are 20 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren with one on the way as well as her sister; Kay (Ed) Norris of Red Springs NC. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her brother Gerald Sappenfield. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the American Lung Association. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home Chelsea, on Friday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. and on Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until noon.
Ricky Salyer
of Chelsea, Michigan.
Age 57, died Friday March 10, 2006 at his home. Funeral services will be Tuesday, March 14, 2006 at 11:00 AM at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea. Visitation will be Monday 3-5 and 7-9 PM. Burial will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to the Salyer family.
of Chelsea, Michigan.
Age 57, died Friday March 10, 2006 at his home. Funeral services will be Tuesday, March 14, 2006 at 11:00 AM at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea. Visitation will be Monday 3-5 and 7-9 PM. Burial will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery. Memorial contributions can be made to the Salyer family.
Buck Risner
of Gregory ,Michigan.
Age 71, passed away Friday March 10, 2006 at his home. He was born on April 8, 1934 in Magoffin County Kentucky, the son of Everett and Mary (Fitch) Risner. Buck had lived in Gregory for the past eight years and retired from Rockwell International in Chelsea after 32 years. He was a member of the Faith Baptist Church in Chelsea and enjoyed wood working, his garden and his granddaughters. On July 11, 1953 he married Frances and she survives, also surviving is one daughter Marjorie (James) Bies of Gregory; one brother Lawrence (Judy) Risner of Dexter; two sisters, Pearlie (Willard) Risner of Salyersville, KY, and Annalee Buchanan of Grayling; two granddaughters, Nicole Bies of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, and Jessica (David Klink) Bies of Waterloo. Funeral services will be Monday March 13, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Pastor Jack Story of Faith Baptist Church Chelsea officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East, Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Livingston County Hospice. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Sunday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.
of Gregory ,Michigan.
Age 71, passed away Friday March 10, 2006 at his home. He was born on April 8, 1934 in Magoffin County Kentucky, the son of Everett and Mary (Fitch) Risner. Buck had lived in Gregory for the past eight years and retired from Rockwell International in Chelsea after 32 years. He was a member of the Faith Baptist Church in Chelsea and enjoyed wood working, his garden and his granddaughters. On July 11, 1953 he married Frances and she survives, also surviving is one daughter Marjorie (James) Bies of Gregory; one brother Lawrence (Judy) Risner of Dexter; two sisters, Pearlie (Willard) Risner of Salyersville, KY, and Annalee Buchanan of Grayling; two granddaughters, Nicole Bies of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, and Jessica (David Klink) Bies of Waterloo. Funeral services will be Monday March 13, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Pastor Jack Story of Faith Baptist Church Chelsea officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East, Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Livingston County Hospice. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Sunday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.
Bennie L. Hallam, Sr.
Of Howell formerly of Lansing
Age 63 passed away Monday, March 6, 2006 at Medilodge in Howell. Mr. Hallam was born Shell City, Missouri, the son of Charles and Alena F. (Hicks) Hallam. He had lived in the Lansing area most of his life. He was a self employed truck driver. He is survived by eight children, Gail (Robert) Hardy of Bath, Bennie (Diane) Hallam of Virginia, Jeanette (Joe) Hayslip of Greenville, Paul (Fawn) Hallam of Dansville, Bennie Hallam, Jr. of Lansing, Shannon (John) Hallam of Lansing, Sheri Hallam of Lansing and Shawn (Marcie) Hallam of Lansing; 29 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren; three brothers, Charles Hallam of Detroit, Daniel Curtis of Eaton Rapids, and David Curtis of Dimondale, four sisters, Alice (Jack) Luckenbill of Missouri, Sharon (Emory) Place of Dewitt, Kathy (John) McCann of Williamston, and Deborah (Elton) Swaenepoel of Jackson. Mr. Hallam was preceded in death in by his biological father and Step Father; wife Marvel Straub one son Timothy and one infant sister Charlene Hallam. Funeral services will be held Friday, March 10, 2:30 p.m. from the Millville United Methodist Church, Stockbridge with Rev. Robert J. Freysinger officiating. The family will receive friends on Thursday. March 9, 2–4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family in care of Shannon Hallam, P.O. Box 18103, Lansing, MI. 48901
Of Howell formerly of Lansing
Age 63 passed away Monday, March 6, 2006 at Medilodge in Howell. Mr. Hallam was born Shell City, Missouri, the son of Charles and Alena F. (Hicks) Hallam. He had lived in the Lansing area most of his life. He was a self employed truck driver. He is survived by eight children, Gail (Robert) Hardy of Bath, Bennie (Diane) Hallam of Virginia, Jeanette (Joe) Hayslip of Greenville, Paul (Fawn) Hallam of Dansville, Bennie Hallam, Jr. of Lansing, Shannon (John) Hallam of Lansing, Sheri Hallam of Lansing and Shawn (Marcie) Hallam of Lansing; 29 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren; three brothers, Charles Hallam of Detroit, Daniel Curtis of Eaton Rapids, and David Curtis of Dimondale, four sisters, Alice (Jack) Luckenbill of Missouri, Sharon (Emory) Place of Dewitt, Kathy (John) McCann of Williamston, and Deborah (Elton) Swaenepoel of Jackson. Mr. Hallam was preceded in death in by his biological father and Step Father; wife Marvel Straub one son Timothy and one infant sister Charlene Hallam. Funeral services will be held Friday, March 10, 2:30 p.m. from the Millville United Methodist Church, Stockbridge with Rev. Robert J. Freysinger officiating. The family will receive friends on Thursday. March 9, 2–4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family in care of Shannon Hallam, P.O. Box 18103, Lansing, MI. 48901
Frances M. Garfield
Of Munith, Mi.
Age 67, passed away March 7, 2006 at her home. She was born on November 14, 1939 in Jackson, Michigan the daughter of Raymond and Ruby (Judson) Green. Frances was the first female firefighter in the state of Michigan and fought fires for Henrietta Township for 24 years. She also sold Avon products for nearly 30 years in the area. Her favorite pastime included knitting, animalsof all kinds and supporting the Jackson North West Mounties band boosters. Surviving are two sons, John (Tren) Garfield of Albion, and Steve (fiancee Linda Harmon) Garfield of Munith, her daughter-in-law Carmen Saldivar of Homer; nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Also surviving are two brothers, Paul (Anna) Cady of Rives Junction, and Eben (Naomi) Cady of Jackson; two sisters, Pauline Cady of Jackson and Joanne (Larry) Hill of Leslie; and a life long special friend Sue Hinkley of Pleasant Lake. She was preceded in death by her husband Graydon D. Garfield and her son G. Dale Garfield. Funeral services will be Saturday March 11, 2006 at 1:00 p.m. from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge with Rev. Toby Teague officiating. Burial will take place in Munith cemetery at a later date. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Henrietta Township Fire Department or Great Lakes Hospice. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Friday from 5-8 p.m. and Saturday noon until the time of service.
Of Munith, Mi.
Age 67, passed away March 7, 2006 at her home. She was born on November 14, 1939 in Jackson, Michigan the daughter of Raymond and Ruby (Judson) Green. Frances was the first female firefighter in the state of Michigan and fought fires for Henrietta Township for 24 years. She also sold Avon products for nearly 30 years in the area. Her favorite pastime included knitting, animalsof all kinds and supporting the Jackson North West Mounties band boosters. Surviving are two sons, John (Tren) Garfield of Albion, and Steve (fiancee Linda Harmon) Garfield of Munith, her daughter-in-law Carmen Saldivar of Homer; nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Also surviving are two brothers, Paul (Anna) Cady of Rives Junction, and Eben (Naomi) Cady of Jackson; two sisters, Pauline Cady of Jackson and Joanne (Larry) Hill of Leslie; and a life long special friend Sue Hinkley of Pleasant Lake. She was preceded in death by her husband Graydon D. Garfield and her son G. Dale Garfield. Funeral services will be Saturday March 11, 2006 at 1:00 p.m. from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge with Rev. Toby Teague officiating. Burial will take place in Munith cemetery at a later date. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Henrietta Township Fire Department or Great Lakes Hospice. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Friday from 5-8 p.m. and Saturday noon until the time of service.
On March 2, 2006, the angels welcomed home their faithful servant, Billie L. Opple, as she passed from this earthly world to be reunited with her heavenly Father. She will be together with those who have gone before her; husband, Peter Opple, father William Luther Gadberry, mother Rhoda Frances Gadberry and her brother Charles Gadberry. Billie was born in Sparksville, Kentucky, but lived most of her life in the Ann Arbor/Chelsea area. She was a loving mother and grandmother. She was a homemaker for most of her life and was a member of and attended the Christian Fellowship Church of Chelsea for well over 30 years. She was a very strong woman who had survived many trials and tribulations in her life because of her faith and trust in God. She believed in the power of prayer and followed Jesus’ directions in Matthew 28:7 that states ’therefore go, and make more disciples of all nations,and teach them to obey every thing I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always to the end of the age.’ She loved to spread the Good Word to those who needed it the most. She also was blessed with a giving heart and touched many people during her stay here with us. Billie is survived by her two children who lovingly cared for her during her illness. She leaves behind her daughter Patricia Frances Opple Horton of Akron, Ohio; her son, Ronald K.(Robin) Miller of Jackson, Michigan; grandchildren, Arlo R. (Ruthe) Guttman and Sarah Ilana Guttman of Akron; Ryan K. Miller of Jackson; great grandchild, Mickey, and one on the way. She also leaves behind many friends that touched her life. The family would like to thank Great Lakes Hospice especially Cindy and Pat for their loving care, support and guidance given to Billie and her family. Funeral services will be Monday, March 6, 11:00 a.m. at the Christian Fellowship Church of Chelsea with Pastor John Dombacher officiating. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell funeral home on Saturday from 7-9 p.m. and on Sunday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m.
Vera (Hurst) Barber
of Stockbridge, Michigan
Vera Barber 95, died February 26, 2006 at Arbor Hospice in Ann Arbor. She was born January 21, 1911 in Lansing, MI, the daughter of George Hurst and Wilhelmina (Fink) Hurst. She lived in Stockbridge all of her life. On October 1, 1932 she married Wendell A. Barber and he preceded her in death. They liked to travel and were members of the Hiawatha Club spending their summers and part of the fall there. Vera enjoyed playing cards, bridge having been her favorite, and family spelling contests. She had enough credits to graduate from high school at age 15, but stayed in school because she enjoyed it so much. Vera was one of the oldest members of the Stockbridge Presbyterian Church attending there for over 50 years. She is survived by three daughters; Joan B. (Harold W. Jr.) Lynde of Lakewood, CO; Mary Barber of Stockbridge; Jane W. Marz of Stockbridge and daughter-in-law, Sharon M. Ramseyer of Au Gres, MI. Also surviving are eight grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by one son, William G. Barber in 1992; two son-in-laws; Ralph Marz and Claude Shamberelly and one brother, George J. Hurst. Funeral services will be Friday, March 3, 2006 at 2 p.m. at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home with Rev. Shannon O'Leary officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 6-9 p.m. and Thursday 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Stockbridge Presbyterian Church; Stockbridge Area Ambulance or Arbor Hospice.
of Stockbridge, Michigan
Vera Barber 95, died February 26, 2006 at Arbor Hospice in Ann Arbor. She was born January 21, 1911 in Lansing, MI, the daughter of George Hurst and Wilhelmina (Fink) Hurst. She lived in Stockbridge all of her life. On October 1, 1932 she married Wendell A. Barber and he preceded her in death. They liked to travel and were members of the Hiawatha Club spending their summers and part of the fall there. Vera enjoyed playing cards, bridge having been her favorite, and family spelling contests. She had enough credits to graduate from high school at age 15, but stayed in school because she enjoyed it so much. Vera was one of the oldest members of the Stockbridge Presbyterian Church attending there for over 50 years. She is survived by three daughters; Joan B. (Harold W. Jr.) Lynde of Lakewood, CO; Mary Barber of Stockbridge; Jane W. Marz of Stockbridge and daughter-in-law, Sharon M. Ramseyer of Au Gres, MI. Also surviving are eight grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by one son, William G. Barber in 1992; two son-in-laws; Ralph Marz and Claude Shamberelly and one brother, George J. Hurst. Funeral services will be Friday, March 3, 2006 at 2 p.m. at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home with Rev. Shannon O'Leary officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 6-9 p.m. and Thursday 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Stockbridge Presbyterian Church; Stockbridge Area Ambulance or Arbor Hospice.
L. Duane Noah
of Chelsea, Michigan.
Age 79, passed away Thursday evening February 16, 2006 at the University of Michigan Hospital. He was born on the family farm on May 27, 1926 in Lyndon Township the son of Laurence and Esther (Widmayer) Noah. Duane had lived and farmed in the same area all his life. He was a member of North Lake United Methodist Church, and enjoyed traveling up north having become a ’part time Yoopper’. He was a former 4H participant and known as a John Deere man all the way. He served on several committees and commissions for Lyndon Township which included; the Board of Review and Planning Commission for over 20 years, the Township Board for eight years and the Western Washtenaw Recycling Authority for many years. On September 1, 1992 he married Maryann Bills on the family farm and she survives. Also surviving are, 1 daughter Lisa (Joseph) Burgess of Dewitt, 1 sister Donna E. Lane of Chelsea and 1 sister in law Camilla (Camie) M. Noah of Chelsea, 7 great nieces and 2 great nephews, Caroline (Dr. Mark) Saunders, W. Chandler Lane, David (Ana) Lane, Dr. Jonathan (Dr Margaret) Lane, Mary Lynn (James Wilfong) Noah, Alicia Esther Noah (Giles) Nolan and Sara (Gary Thomas) Noah. 1 granddaughter, Gianna Marie Burgess. He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers Lloyd, and Lynwood Noah, 1 daughter Gina Marie Bills, and 1 brother in law Dr. Wilfred C. Lane. Funeral services will be Tuesday, February 21, 2006 at 11:00 AM. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Revs. Alice Sheffield, Martin Ledy and David L. Lane officiating. Burial will follow at North Lake Cemetery, Dexter Township. Expressions of sympathy may be made to North Lake United Methodist Church, Mackinac Straights Hospital, (Moses Dialysis Center). The family will receive friends at the funeral home Monday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM also Tuesday 10:00 AM until the time of service.
of Chelsea, Michigan.
Age 79, passed away Thursday evening February 16, 2006 at the University of Michigan Hospital. He was born on the family farm on May 27, 1926 in Lyndon Township the son of Laurence and Esther (Widmayer) Noah. Duane had lived and farmed in the same area all his life. He was a member of North Lake United Methodist Church, and enjoyed traveling up north having become a ’part time Yoopper’. He was a former 4H participant and known as a John Deere man all the way. He served on several committees and commissions for Lyndon Township which included; the Board of Review and Planning Commission for over 20 years, the Township Board for eight years and the Western Washtenaw Recycling Authority for many years. On September 1, 1992 he married Maryann Bills on the family farm and she survives. Also surviving are, 1 daughter Lisa (Joseph) Burgess of Dewitt, 1 sister Donna E. Lane of Chelsea and 1 sister in law Camilla (Camie) M. Noah of Chelsea, 7 great nieces and 2 great nephews, Caroline (Dr. Mark) Saunders, W. Chandler Lane, David (Ana) Lane, Dr. Jonathan (Dr Margaret) Lane, Mary Lynn (James Wilfong) Noah, Alicia Esther Noah (Giles) Nolan and Sara (Gary Thomas) Noah. 1 granddaughter, Gianna Marie Burgess. He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers Lloyd, and Lynwood Noah, 1 daughter Gina Marie Bills, and 1 brother in law Dr. Wilfred C. Lane. Funeral services will be Tuesday, February 21, 2006 at 11:00 AM. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Revs. Alice Sheffield, Martin Ledy and David L. Lane officiating. Burial will follow at North Lake Cemetery, Dexter Township. Expressions of sympathy may be made to North Lake United Methodist Church, Mackinac Straights Hospital, (Moses Dialysis Center). The family will receive friends at the funeral home Monday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM also Tuesday 10:00 AM until the time of service.
Bobby Gene Fletcher
Age 62 passed away Tuesday, February 7, 2006 at the VA Hospital in Ann Arbor. He was the son of the late Charles and Louise (Risner) Fletcher, born in Royalton, Kentucky on February 23, 1943. Bobby had lived in the area most of his life graduating from Chelsea High School in 1962. Bobby enjoyed Hunting, Fishing and playing his guitar. He had been employed at Rockwell International for many years. He is survived by his four children; Lance Fletcher of Dundee, MI, Corrine Patrick of Jackson, MI, Stephanie (Dennis) White of Munith and Jerrod W. Fletcher of Ypsilanti, MI; eight grandchildren; three sisters; Tootsie (Jim) Barth of Whitmore Lake, MI, Connie (Phil) Musolf of Chelsea, MI. and Vickie (Mike) Erskine of Stockbridge, MI and the mother of his children, Sharon P. Fletcher the love of his life of Grass Lake, MI He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Shirley Simonson and Wanda Thomas. Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 11 at 1:00 p.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Robert Castle officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea. Memorial contributions may be made to the Fletcher Family. Friends will be received on Friday, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. from the funeral home.
Age 62 passed away Tuesday, February 7, 2006 at the VA Hospital in Ann Arbor. He was the son of the late Charles and Louise (Risner) Fletcher, born in Royalton, Kentucky on February 23, 1943. Bobby had lived in the area most of his life graduating from Chelsea High School in 1962. Bobby enjoyed Hunting, Fishing and playing his guitar. He had been employed at Rockwell International for many years. He is survived by his four children; Lance Fletcher of Dundee, MI, Corrine Patrick of Jackson, MI, Stephanie (Dennis) White of Munith and Jerrod W. Fletcher of Ypsilanti, MI; eight grandchildren; three sisters; Tootsie (Jim) Barth of Whitmore Lake, MI, Connie (Phil) Musolf of Chelsea, MI. and Vickie (Mike) Erskine of Stockbridge, MI and the mother of his children, Sharon P. Fletcher the love of his life of Grass Lake, MI He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Shirley Simonson and Wanda Thomas. Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 11 at 1:00 p.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Robert Castle officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea. Memorial contributions may be made to the Fletcher Family. Friends will be received on Friday, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. from the funeral home.
Loy P. Osborne
of Gregory
Age 52 died February 6, 2006 in Lansing, Michigan. He was born the son of Lee H. and Phyllis (King) Osborne on May 13, 1953 in Jackson, MI. On June 4, 1976 he married Sandy R. Abbey and she survives. Loy liked to watch TV, and work in his yard. He also liked to build things like a swing set for his grandkids and his 350 motor-trike. Most of all he enjoyed being with his wife, children, and grandchildren. In addition to his wife, Loy is survived by his children; Tim R. (Hilary) Abbey of Gregory, Lesley (Steve Fear) Fletcher of Howell, and Nichole (Dave) Wolf of Stockbridge. Also surviving is his mother Phyllis Osborne of Stockbridge; his brothers and sisters Jerry L. (Debra) Osborne of Ypsilanti, Leon (Sarita) Osborne of MI, Judy L. (Lee) McRae of TX, Kathy Osborne of Stockbridge, and Lori Osborne of TX; his grandchildren Cassidy, Kristen, Heidi, Samantha, Dylan, Kaitlyn, Alexandra, Timothy Jr, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Lee H. Osborne and his sister Elaine Short. Funeral services will be Friday, February 10, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. at the Good Shepherd Mission with Parson Billy Allen officiating. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Mission. The family will receive friends at the Mission which is located at the corner of Brogan Rd. and M-36 in Stockbridge, on Wednesday and Thursday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Arrangements are by the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home.
of Gregory
Age 52 died February 6, 2006 in Lansing, Michigan. He was born the son of Lee H. and Phyllis (King) Osborne on May 13, 1953 in Jackson, MI. On June 4, 1976 he married Sandy R. Abbey and she survives. Loy liked to watch TV, and work in his yard. He also liked to build things like a swing set for his grandkids and his 350 motor-trike. Most of all he enjoyed being with his wife, children, and grandchildren. In addition to his wife, Loy is survived by his children; Tim R. (Hilary) Abbey of Gregory, Lesley (Steve Fear) Fletcher of Howell, and Nichole (Dave) Wolf of Stockbridge. Also surviving is his mother Phyllis Osborne of Stockbridge; his brothers and sisters Jerry L. (Debra) Osborne of Ypsilanti, Leon (Sarita) Osborne of MI, Judy L. (Lee) McRae of TX, Kathy Osborne of Stockbridge, and Lori Osborne of TX; his grandchildren Cassidy, Kristen, Heidi, Samantha, Dylan, Kaitlyn, Alexandra, Timothy Jr, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Lee H. Osborne and his sister Elaine Short. Funeral services will be Friday, February 10, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. at the Good Shepherd Mission with Parson Billy Allen officiating. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Mission. The family will receive friends at the Mission which is located at the corner of Brogan Rd. and M-36 in Stockbridge, on Wednesday and Thursday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Arrangements are by the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home.
Lloyd F. Bridges
of Chelsea MI
Age 74, died Monday morning February 6, 2006 at his home. He was born on May 29, 1931 in St. Clare Shores, Michigan. Lloyd was the son of Charles Wesley Fern Bridges Sr. and Caroline Paulina Wilhomena (Kurth). Lloyd lived and worked in the Chelsea Community since 1971. He first began his young career selling adding machines for Gerald Spencer and then sold automobiles at Taylor Chevrolet in Walled Lake, MI. Lloyd then opened his own party store (Bridges Party Shoppe) combined with a pizzeria and car sales. In 1963 he sold the party store and opened Lloyd Bridges Dodge, expanding the facility in 1964 to Lloyd Bridges Traveland (Walled Lake).
Lloyd then moved on to sell fireplace franchise products for Kings Roe. In 1971, he moved his family to Chelsea, MI. At that time Lloyd bought Spaulding Chevrolet in downtown Chelsea, and two years later moved the business to its current location which he and his two sons now operate. Lloyd gave back to others and his community through charitable donations that included St. Louis Schools, Retinitis Pigmatoses Foundation, Jerry Lewis Telethons, and educational trusts and funds to friends and family members. In 1986, he developed Bridgetown Condominiums in Chelsea. Lloyd and four of his brothers were born with Retinitis Pigmatoses, a rare eye disease which caused him to gradually loose his peripheral vision and become blind (in his 40’s). On June 29, 1957 he married Barbara E. Jackubeck of Traverse City, MI. Barbara preceded Lloyd in death on October 14, 2001. Surviving are three children, Michele (John Nelson) Bridges of Bath, MI, Gerald and Charles Bridges both of Chelsea. Also surviving are three grandchildren, Timothy, Ben and Casey Bridges and four brothers; Charles (Violet) Bridges II of Farmington, Richard (Rose) Bridges of Walled Lake, E. Nicholas (Marilyn) Bridges of Negaunee, MI, and Donald Bridges of FL. The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all of Lloyd’s care givers: Lisa Bingel, Gwen Laeder, Jenny Hampton, Kim Mc Quarrie, and Dede Scudder, especially to Jenny Hampton who extended her love in many ways. Funeral services will be held Friday February 10, 2006 at 11:00 A.M., at St. Mary Catholic Church with Rev. Fa.William J. Turner and Rev. Fa. Joseph Renaldo con-celebrating. Burial will follow at North Lake Cemetery, Dexter Township. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Foundation for Fighting Blindness, or the St. Louis Center. The Family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home Thursday, from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M.
of Chelsea MI
Age 74, died Monday morning February 6, 2006 at his home. He was born on May 29, 1931 in St. Clare Shores, Michigan. Lloyd was the son of Charles Wesley Fern Bridges Sr. and Caroline Paulina Wilhomena (Kurth). Lloyd lived and worked in the Chelsea Community since 1971. He first began his young career selling adding machines for Gerald Spencer and then sold automobiles at Taylor Chevrolet in Walled Lake, MI. Lloyd then opened his own party store (Bridges Party Shoppe) combined with a pizzeria and car sales. In 1963 he sold the party store and opened Lloyd Bridges Dodge, expanding the facility in 1964 to Lloyd Bridges Traveland (Walled Lake).
Lloyd then moved on to sell fireplace franchise products for Kings Roe. In 1971, he moved his family to Chelsea, MI. At that time Lloyd bought Spaulding Chevrolet in downtown Chelsea, and two years later moved the business to its current location which he and his two sons now operate. Lloyd gave back to others and his community through charitable donations that included St. Louis Schools, Retinitis Pigmatoses Foundation, Jerry Lewis Telethons, and educational trusts and funds to friends and family members. In 1986, he developed Bridgetown Condominiums in Chelsea. Lloyd and four of his brothers were born with Retinitis Pigmatoses, a rare eye disease which caused him to gradually loose his peripheral vision and become blind (in his 40’s). On June 29, 1957 he married Barbara E. Jackubeck of Traverse City, MI. Barbara preceded Lloyd in death on October 14, 2001. Surviving are three children, Michele (John Nelson) Bridges of Bath, MI, Gerald and Charles Bridges both of Chelsea. Also surviving are three grandchildren, Timothy, Ben and Casey Bridges and four brothers; Charles (Violet) Bridges II of Farmington, Richard (Rose) Bridges of Walled Lake, E. Nicholas (Marilyn) Bridges of Negaunee, MI, and Donald Bridges of FL. The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all of Lloyd’s care givers: Lisa Bingel, Gwen Laeder, Jenny Hampton, Kim Mc Quarrie, and Dede Scudder, especially to Jenny Hampton who extended her love in many ways. Funeral services will be held Friday February 10, 2006 at 11:00 A.M., at St. Mary Catholic Church with Rev. Fa.William J. Turner and Rev. Fa. Joseph Renaldo con-celebrating. Burial will follow at North Lake Cemetery, Dexter Township. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Foundation for Fighting Blindness, or the St. Louis Center. The Family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home Thursday, from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M.
Ernest William Wenk
of Chelsea, Michigan
Age 91, passed away Thursday January 26, 2006 at the Chelsea Retirement Community. He was born on June 9, 1914 in Freedom Township. Ernest was a life member of Zion Lutheran Church, a former member of Lutheran Brotherhood of Zion and former church council member. He and his father owned and operated a sawmill that was just north of the family farm where he enjoyed deer hunting, trapping, and fishing. On February 7, 1942 he married Edna M. Horning and she survives, also surviving are two children William (Marlene) Wenk of Denver,Colorado and Carolyn (Patrick) McNamara of Ann Arbor, Michigan; one brother Norman (Lorena) Wenk of Chelsea, three grandchildren; Brian Wenk, and Ryan and Erin McNamara. Sister and brother-in-laws, Dorothy Wenk of Chelsea, Margaret Horning of Manchester,George and Marian Pickell of Chelsea and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one son, Kenneth Wenk, two brothers, Elmer and Erwin Wenk, two sisters Rubna Loeffler and Edna Burkhardt. Funeral services will be Tuesday, January 31, 2006 at 11:00 A.M. from Zion Lutheran Church, with Rev. Doris C. Sparks officiating. Burial will follow at Zion Lutheran Church Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Zion Lutheran Church. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home Monday from 2-6 P.M. also Tuesday 10:00 A.M. at the church until the time of service.
of Chelsea, Michigan
Age 91, passed away Thursday January 26, 2006 at the Chelsea Retirement Community. He was born on June 9, 1914 in Freedom Township. Ernest was a life member of Zion Lutheran Church, a former member of Lutheran Brotherhood of Zion and former church council member. He and his father owned and operated a sawmill that was just north of the family farm where he enjoyed deer hunting, trapping, and fishing. On February 7, 1942 he married Edna M. Horning and she survives, also surviving are two children William (Marlene) Wenk of Denver,Colorado and Carolyn (Patrick) McNamara of Ann Arbor, Michigan; one brother Norman (Lorena) Wenk of Chelsea, three grandchildren; Brian Wenk, and Ryan and Erin McNamara. Sister and brother-in-laws, Dorothy Wenk of Chelsea, Margaret Horning of Manchester,George and Marian Pickell of Chelsea and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one son, Kenneth Wenk, two brothers, Elmer and Erwin Wenk, two sisters Rubna Loeffler and Edna Burkhardt. Funeral services will be Tuesday, January 31, 2006 at 11:00 A.M. from Zion Lutheran Church, with Rev. Doris C. Sparks officiating. Burial will follow at Zion Lutheran Church Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Zion Lutheran Church. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home Monday from 2-6 P.M. also Tuesday 10:00 A.M. at the church until the time of service.
Gladys M. Helek
of Grass Lake, formerly
of Chelsea, Michigan.
Age 87, passed away Thursday, January 26, 2006 at Cedar Knoll Care Facility. She was born on November 1, 1918 in Ithaca, Michigan the daughter of Charles and Myrtle (Ebright) Worden. Gladys had lived in the area since 1985 coming from Oscoda. She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea for several years. She retired from the Ann Arbor School district in 1980. Surviving are two sons, Douglas Helek of Chelsea, and Charles B. Rowe of Harrieta, Michigan. Two brothers, Ivan Welch of Bay City and Jack Welch-Garrison of Fair Grove, Michigan. Two sisters Ruby Martin of Bay City and Betty Jean Koonce of Bloomfield, Michigan and four grandchildren and two great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Russell L. Rowe and her second husband George Helek. Funeral services will be Monday 11:00 A.M. January 30, 2006 at St. Mary Catholic Church with Rev. Dr. William Joseph Turner presiding. Burial will follow at Washtenong Memorial Park, Ann Arbor. Expressions of sympathy can be made to St. Mary Catholic Church. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, Saturday from 7-9 PM. also Sunday from 3-5 and 7-9 PM. with rosary at 7:30.
of Grass Lake, formerly
of Chelsea, Michigan.
Age 87, passed away Thursday, January 26, 2006 at Cedar Knoll Care Facility. She was born on November 1, 1918 in Ithaca, Michigan the daughter of Charles and Myrtle (Ebright) Worden. Gladys had lived in the area since 1985 coming from Oscoda. She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea for several years. She retired from the Ann Arbor School district in 1980. Surviving are two sons, Douglas Helek of Chelsea, and Charles B. Rowe of Harrieta, Michigan. Two brothers, Ivan Welch of Bay City and Jack Welch-Garrison of Fair Grove, Michigan. Two sisters Ruby Martin of Bay City and Betty Jean Koonce of Bloomfield, Michigan and four grandchildren and two great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Russell L. Rowe and her second husband George Helek. Funeral services will be Monday 11:00 A.M. January 30, 2006 at St. Mary Catholic Church with Rev. Dr. William Joseph Turner presiding. Burial will follow at Washtenong Memorial Park, Ann Arbor. Expressions of sympathy can be made to St. Mary Catholic Church. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, Saturday from 7-9 PM. also Sunday from 3-5 and 7-9 PM. with rosary at 7:30.
Richard Walter Kapp
of Stockbridge
formerly of Ann Arbor
Age 74, died at Ingham Medical Hospital in Lansing on January 25. He was born the son of Walter F. and Charlotte (Voedgeding) Kapp in Manchester, Michigan on June 14, 1931. Richard graduated from Ann Arbor High School in 1949, he married Esther L. Maulbetsch in Ann Arbor on June 27, 1953 and she survives. He was a life long farmer selling his bedding plants and vegetables at the Ann Arbor Farmers Market for more than 50 years. He was also a volunteer firefighter for Ann Arbor Township for 22 years before moving to Stockbridge in 1971. Richard enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. He enjoyed teasing anyone he knew, especially his wife, by utilizing his quick wit, one liners and creative joking which he passed on to his children and grandchildren. He also enjoyed spending time at the family cabin near Clare. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren; James (Kim) Kapp of Leslie, Linda (Bruce) Rogers of Munith, Bob (Dawn Kollins, special friend) Kapp of Olivet, Walter (Carolanne) Kapp of Stockbridge, Daniel (Paula) Kapp of Jackson; 12 grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Also surviving are his sisters Agusta (Harold) Davis of Leslie, Virginia Maulbetsch of Ann Arbor Mary (Alan) Erke of Chelsea, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his youngest son Edward Kapp in 1984. Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 28 at the Jeruel Baptist Church, Munith at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Robert Castle officiating. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the church. The family will receive friends at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge on Friday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m.
of Stockbridge
formerly of Ann Arbor
Age 74, died at Ingham Medical Hospital in Lansing on January 25. He was born the son of Walter F. and Charlotte (Voedgeding) Kapp in Manchester, Michigan on June 14, 1931. Richard graduated from Ann Arbor High School in 1949, he married Esther L. Maulbetsch in Ann Arbor on June 27, 1953 and she survives. He was a life long farmer selling his bedding plants and vegetables at the Ann Arbor Farmers Market for more than 50 years. He was also a volunteer firefighter for Ann Arbor Township for 22 years before moving to Stockbridge in 1971. Richard enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. He enjoyed teasing anyone he knew, especially his wife, by utilizing his quick wit, one liners and creative joking which he passed on to his children and grandchildren. He also enjoyed spending time at the family cabin near Clare. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren; James (Kim) Kapp of Leslie, Linda (Bruce) Rogers of Munith, Bob (Dawn Kollins, special friend) Kapp of Olivet, Walter (Carolanne) Kapp of Stockbridge, Daniel (Paula) Kapp of Jackson; 12 grandchildren and three great grandchildren. Also surviving are his sisters Agusta (Harold) Davis of Leslie, Virginia Maulbetsch of Ann Arbor Mary (Alan) Erke of Chelsea, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his youngest son Edward Kapp in 1984. Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 28 at the Jeruel Baptist Church, Munith at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Robert Castle officiating. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the church. The family will receive friends at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge on Friday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m.
Leatha Norine McKay
Formerly of Port Richey, FL recently from Gregory, MI
Born on May 20, 1916 in Detroit, Michigan, Norine died on Sunday, January 22nd at Arbor Hospice Residence. She had been in declining health the past year and was very grateful for the loving care she received during her final months. Although she worked at many things during her life, in her heart she was first and foremost a dancer. Her ability in this was recognized early in life and she enjoyed many accolades and opportunities. This included being one of the original Rockettes, performing at the Fox Theater, and the chance to dance with Buddy Epsen. She was classically trained in the Cecchetti Method and passed her love of dance on to her students for many years. She was also an avid animal lover who was always accompanied by a canine friend throughout her life.
Norine was predeceased by her husband, Richard V. McKay, in August of 2003. She dearly loved her family and leaves a daughter Sharon (Frank) Pignanelli of Gregory; a son Randall (Sharon) McKay of Livonia; grandchildren Lisa (Clark) Ivey of Perry, John Pignanelli of Chicago, IL, Chris (Lolita) McKay of Corunna, CA, Matthew (Shannon) McKay, Melissa McKay and Lindsay McKay of Livonia; and eight great-grandchildren.
At her request, cremation has taken place and her remains will be moved to their final resting place at a later date. The family will greet friends on Saturday, January 28 beginning at 3 PM at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 N. Main Street, Chelsea, MI. A memorial service to be conducted by Reverend Diane Smith, Chaplain of Arbor Hospice, will follow at 5 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, your local Humane Society, or Arbor Hospice.
Formerly of Port Richey, FL recently from Gregory, MI
Born on May 20, 1916 in Detroit, Michigan, Norine died on Sunday, January 22nd at Arbor Hospice Residence. She had been in declining health the past year and was very grateful for the loving care she received during her final months. Although she worked at many things during her life, in her heart she was first and foremost a dancer. Her ability in this was recognized early in life and she enjoyed many accolades and opportunities. This included being one of the original Rockettes, performing at the Fox Theater, and the chance to dance with Buddy Epsen. She was classically trained in the Cecchetti Method and passed her love of dance on to her students for many years. She was also an avid animal lover who was always accompanied by a canine friend throughout her life.
Norine was predeceased by her husband, Richard V. McKay, in August of 2003. She dearly loved her family and leaves a daughter Sharon (Frank) Pignanelli of Gregory; a son Randall (Sharon) McKay of Livonia; grandchildren Lisa (Clark) Ivey of Perry, John Pignanelli of Chicago, IL, Chris (Lolita) McKay of Corunna, CA, Matthew (Shannon) McKay, Melissa McKay and Lindsay McKay of Livonia; and eight great-grandchildren.
At her request, cremation has taken place and her remains will be moved to their final resting place at a later date. The family will greet friends on Saturday, January 28 beginning at 3 PM at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 N. Main Street, Chelsea, MI. A memorial service to be conducted by Reverend Diane Smith, Chaplain of Arbor Hospice, will follow at 5 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, your local Humane Society, or Arbor Hospice.
Jack Pelton
Of Jackson, Michigan passed away Thursday, January 12, 2006 at the age of 81 after battling a long illness. Jack was born in Spring Arbor, Michigan on June 7, 1924 to Earl and Erma Pelton. He is survived by his loving wife, Margaret (Smith) of 56 years. They were married on February 19, 1949. Jack was a veteran of WWII having served in the United States Army in the European Theater from 1942-1946. Jack was a farmer having worked for Dixon Farms for many years. He enjoyed golfing, bowling, fishing for anything that would bite, and growing vegetables in his garden. Most of all, he loved his family. In addition to his wife Margaret, he is survived by his son Jack (Sandy) Pelton of Jackson; his grandchildren Tina (Ryan) Willbee, Tracy (Ryan) Morton, Becky (Greg) Williams; and his great grandchildren Ryley and Anna Morton and Jack Williams, of Jackson. Jack is survived by his brothers and sisters Earl (Alice) Pelton of Onondaga, Richard (Charlotte) Pelton of Florida, Rev. Robert (Marcena) Pelton of PA, Shirley Kidd of Duck Lake, Jeanne Elder of Jackson, and Jim Pelton of Hillsdale. Jack was preceded in death by his son Roger Dale Pelton in 1968. A celebration of his life will take place at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home on Monday, January 16 at 11:00 A.M. with Rev. Robert Pelton officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 2-6 P.M. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Southern Care Hospice of Jackson.
Of Jackson, Michigan passed away Thursday, January 12, 2006 at the age of 81 after battling a long illness. Jack was born in Spring Arbor, Michigan on June 7, 1924 to Earl and Erma Pelton. He is survived by his loving wife, Margaret (Smith) of 56 years. They were married on February 19, 1949. Jack was a veteran of WWII having served in the United States Army in the European Theater from 1942-1946. Jack was a farmer having worked for Dixon Farms for many years. He enjoyed golfing, bowling, fishing for anything that would bite, and growing vegetables in his garden. Most of all, he loved his family. In addition to his wife Margaret, he is survived by his son Jack (Sandy) Pelton of Jackson; his grandchildren Tina (Ryan) Willbee, Tracy (Ryan) Morton, Becky (Greg) Williams; and his great grandchildren Ryley and Anna Morton and Jack Williams, of Jackson. Jack is survived by his brothers and sisters Earl (Alice) Pelton of Onondaga, Richard (Charlotte) Pelton of Florida, Rev. Robert (Marcena) Pelton of PA, Shirley Kidd of Duck Lake, Jeanne Elder of Jackson, and Jim Pelton of Hillsdale. Jack was preceded in death by his son Roger Dale Pelton in 1968. A celebration of his life will take place at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home on Monday, January 16 at 11:00 A.M. with Rev. Robert Pelton officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 2-6 P.M. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Southern Care Hospice of Jackson.
Wayne A. Luckhardt
Of Big Rapids, formerly of Grass Lake, Age 55, died January 1, 2006 as a result of his vehicle being hit by a car driven by a drunk driver in Wexford Co., Michigan. He was born May 19, 1950 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Andrew J. and Bonolyn J. (Brown) Luckhardt. He had been a resident of Big Rapids since 1999. Wayne was a bus driver for the Mescosta County Headstart program for past two years. Mr. Luckhardt was a licensed contractor and had built two personal homes. He enjoyed woodworking, motorcycles, fishing and belonged to a bicycle club. Wayne was also a master gardener. He married Reann Drouare in Saline, MI on August 12, 1978. Surviving are his two children, Jonathan Luckhardt and Tamara Luckhardt, both of East Lansing, his father of Saline, brothers Gary Luckhardt of Saline and Russell (Colette) Luckhardt of Gregory, and a sister Judy (Duane) Fiegel of Manchester and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by mother and nephew Douglas Drouare.
Reann J. Luckhardt
Of Big Rapids, formerly Grass Lake Age 52, died January 1, 2006 as a result of her car being struck by a vehicle driven by a drunk driver in Wexford County, Michigan. She was born March 29, 1953 in Detroit, the daughter of Harold A. and Elizabeth A. (Leszczynski) Drouare. She had been a resident of Big Rapids since 1999. Reann was a member of the St. Mary Catholic Church, and was the billing director for Spectrum Health in Reed City, MI. Reann enjoyed gardening, bicycling, motorcycling, horses and her children and other family members. She is survived by her two children, Jonathan Luckhardt and Tamara Luckhardt, both of East Lansing, her mother of Grass Lake, two brothers Ralph H.(Barbara) Drouare of Commerce Township, MI. and Roger (Sharon) Drouare of Grass Lake, two sisters Rochelle Drouare of Commerce Township, MI, Rita(Edgar) Crawley of Dundee, MI. and several nieces and nephews. Reann was preceded in death by her father, infant brother Ruell, and a nephew Douglas Drouare. Funeral services for Wayne and Reann will be held Saturday, January 7, 2006 at 11:00 AM at St. Mary Catholic Church, 14200 Old US 12, Chelsea, MI. with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner and Deacon Richard Shaneyfelt officiating. The Rosary will be held Friday evening at 6:00 PM at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 North Main Street, Chelsea. Visitation will be Friday from 1:00 to 4:00 PM and 6:30 to 9:00 PM at the funeral home and at the church on Saturday from 10:00 AM until the hour of service. Burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery, Manchester, Michigan. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Luckhardt Children Scholarship Fund
Of Big Rapids, formerly of Grass Lake, Age 55, died January 1, 2006 as a result of his vehicle being hit by a car driven by a drunk driver in Wexford Co., Michigan. He was born May 19, 1950 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Andrew J. and Bonolyn J. (Brown) Luckhardt. He had been a resident of Big Rapids since 1999. Wayne was a bus driver for the Mescosta County Headstart program for past two years. Mr. Luckhardt was a licensed contractor and had built two personal homes. He enjoyed woodworking, motorcycles, fishing and belonged to a bicycle club. Wayne was also a master gardener. He married Reann Drouare in Saline, MI on August 12, 1978. Surviving are his two children, Jonathan Luckhardt and Tamara Luckhardt, both of East Lansing, his father of Saline, brothers Gary Luckhardt of Saline and Russell (Colette) Luckhardt of Gregory, and a sister Judy (Duane) Fiegel of Manchester and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by mother and nephew Douglas Drouare.
Reann J. Luckhardt
Of Big Rapids, formerly Grass Lake Age 52, died January 1, 2006 as a result of her car being struck by a vehicle driven by a drunk driver in Wexford County, Michigan. She was born March 29, 1953 in Detroit, the daughter of Harold A. and Elizabeth A. (Leszczynski) Drouare. She had been a resident of Big Rapids since 1999. Reann was a member of the St. Mary Catholic Church, and was the billing director for Spectrum Health in Reed City, MI. Reann enjoyed gardening, bicycling, motorcycling, horses and her children and other family members. She is survived by her two children, Jonathan Luckhardt and Tamara Luckhardt, both of East Lansing, her mother of Grass Lake, two brothers Ralph H.(Barbara) Drouare of Commerce Township, MI. and Roger (Sharon) Drouare of Grass Lake, two sisters Rochelle Drouare of Commerce Township, MI, Rita(Edgar) Crawley of Dundee, MI. and several nieces and nephews. Reann was preceded in death by her father, infant brother Ruell, and a nephew Douglas Drouare. Funeral services for Wayne and Reann will be held Saturday, January 7, 2006 at 11:00 AM at St. Mary Catholic Church, 14200 Old US 12, Chelsea, MI. with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner and Deacon Richard Shaneyfelt officiating. The Rosary will be held Friday evening at 6:00 PM at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 North Main Street, Chelsea. Visitation will be Friday from 1:00 to 4:00 PM and 6:30 to 9:00 PM at the funeral home and at the church on Saturday from 10:00 AM until the hour of service. Burial will follow at St. Mary Cemetery, Manchester, Michigan. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Luckhardt Children Scholarship Fund
Ellen J. McGeown
Dublin, Ohio
Mother of Jennifer E.(John-David) Alford
Of Chelsea
Age 62, died Monday, January 2, 2006 at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, OH. She was born in Philadelphia, PA to the late James and Anna (Killough) Hendrickson. Ellen was a graduate of Haverford Township High School, Haverford, PA. She married Mervyn J. McGeown on August 29, 1970 in Denver, CO. Before settling in Columbus, Ellen and Merv made their homes in Chicago, Minneapolis, and Michigan. Ellen was employed part-time at The Morgan House for the past nine years. She is survived by her husband, children; John M. McGeown of London, England and Jennifer Ellen (John-David) Alford of Chelsea, her granddaughter Isobel Lovie Alford and a grandchild due in May, 2006; her sister Joan Hendrickson of Media, PA; and many, many friends. Funeral Mass will be held Friday January 6, 2006 at 11:00 AM at St. Brigid of Kildare Church, Dublin, Ohio. Graveside services will be held Sunday January 8, 2006 at 2:30 PM at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. If they choose, friends may send expressions of sympathy to the American Heart Association, PO Box 163549, Columbus, OH 43216-3549 in Ellen’s memory. Local arrangements
are by the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, Michigan.
Dublin, Ohio
Mother of Jennifer E.(John-David) Alford
Of Chelsea
Age 62, died Monday, January 2, 2006 at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, OH. She was born in Philadelphia, PA to the late James and Anna (Killough) Hendrickson. Ellen was a graduate of Haverford Township High School, Haverford, PA. She married Mervyn J. McGeown on August 29, 1970 in Denver, CO. Before settling in Columbus, Ellen and Merv made their homes in Chicago, Minneapolis, and Michigan. Ellen was employed part-time at The Morgan House for the past nine years. She is survived by her husband, children; John M. McGeown of London, England and Jennifer Ellen (John-David) Alford of Chelsea, her granddaughter Isobel Lovie Alford and a grandchild due in May, 2006; her sister Joan Hendrickson of Media, PA; and many, many friends. Funeral Mass will be held Friday January 6, 2006 at 11:00 AM at St. Brigid of Kildare Church, Dublin, Ohio. Graveside services will be held Sunday January 8, 2006 at 2:30 PM at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. If they choose, friends may send expressions of sympathy to the American Heart Association, PO Box 163549, Columbus, OH 43216-3549 in Ellen’s memory. Local arrangements
are by the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, Michigan.
Harold W. Martin
Of Lansing, Michigan.
Age 78, passed away Tuesday January 3, 2006 at the East Lansing Health Care Center. He was born on May 30, 1927 in Jackson, Michigan the son of Noble and Frankie (Howard) Martin. Harold was a veteran of World War II serving with the United States Navy and re-enlisted post war in the United States Army. During his career he worked for various companies in Jackson, Eaton, and Ingham Counties including Jet Die. He is survived by the mother of his children, Margaret Martin of Lansing; his Son Douglas C. Martin of Escanaba; three daughters, Alice (John) Albin of Fowlerville, Mi., Odette (John) Blanchard of Napoleon, and Frankie Meza of Tulsa, OK; one brother Douglas Martin of Michigan Center; and one sister, Jean Hansel of Jackson. Mr. Martin will be remembered by his eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be Friday January 6, 2006 at 11:00 AM at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge with Gary Ashby Chaplain of Hospice Advantage officiating. Burial will follow at Woodland Cemetery, Jackson. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Melorheostosis Association,6611 Clayton Rd., Suite 209, St. Louis, MO. 63117. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Thursday from 6-9 PM.
Of Lansing, Michigan.
Age 78, passed away Tuesday January 3, 2006 at the East Lansing Health Care Center. He was born on May 30, 1927 in Jackson, Michigan the son of Noble and Frankie (Howard) Martin. Harold was a veteran of World War II serving with the United States Navy and re-enlisted post war in the United States Army. During his career he worked for various companies in Jackson, Eaton, and Ingham Counties including Jet Die. He is survived by the mother of his children, Margaret Martin of Lansing; his Son Douglas C. Martin of Escanaba; three daughters, Alice (John) Albin of Fowlerville, Mi., Odette (John) Blanchard of Napoleon, and Frankie Meza of Tulsa, OK; one brother Douglas Martin of Michigan Center; and one sister, Jean Hansel of Jackson. Mr. Martin will be remembered by his eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be Friday January 6, 2006 at 11:00 AM at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge with Gary Ashby Chaplain of Hospice Advantage officiating. Burial will follow at Woodland Cemetery, Jackson. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Melorheostosis Association,6611 Clayton Rd., Suite 209, St. Louis, MO. 63117. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Thursday from 6-9 PM.
Judith A. Boyer
of Chelsea, Michigan.
Age 67, passed away Sunday, January 1, 2006 at her home. She was born on June 1, 1938 in Royal Oak Michigan the daughter of Arthur and Marjorie (Jordan) Karvel. Judy worked for 18 years at the Chelsea High School Cafeteria and retired in 1996. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Chelsea for 48 years. Judy enjoyed Knitting, flowers, watching birds and her grandchildren meant the world to her. On March 30, 1957 she married Winston E. Boyer in Chelsea and he survives, also surviving are, five children, James (Kathy) Boyer of Chelsea, Bonnie Burchett of Chelsea, Jeffery (Lisa) Boyer of Stockbridge, Joel (Betsy) Boyer of Sparta, and Heidi (Daniel) Ray of Chelsea; one brother Arthur ’Bud’ (Janet) Karvel Jr. of Dexter, two sisters; Marilyn Benson of Jonesville, MI, and Jean (Robert) Fenton of Mancelona. Also surviving are 16 grandchildren and onr great-granddaughter. Judy was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter-in-law Mary Beth Boyer, and brother-in-law George Benson. Funeral services will be Thursday, January 5, 2006 at the first United Methodist Church with Rev. Joy Barrett officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy can be made to First United Methodist Church Summer Youth Camp Scholarship Fund, American Cancer Association, or Hospice of Michigan. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 North Main Street, Chelsea on Tuesday from 7-9 p.m. and Wednesday 2-5 and 7-9p.m. and Thursday 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.
of Chelsea, Michigan.
Age 67, passed away Sunday, January 1, 2006 at her home. She was born on June 1, 1938 in Royal Oak Michigan the daughter of Arthur and Marjorie (Jordan) Karvel. Judy worked for 18 years at the Chelsea High School Cafeteria and retired in 1996. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Chelsea for 48 years. Judy enjoyed Knitting, flowers, watching birds and her grandchildren meant the world to her. On March 30, 1957 she married Winston E. Boyer in Chelsea and he survives, also surviving are, five children, James (Kathy) Boyer of Chelsea, Bonnie Burchett of Chelsea, Jeffery (Lisa) Boyer of Stockbridge, Joel (Betsy) Boyer of Sparta, and Heidi (Daniel) Ray of Chelsea; one brother Arthur ’Bud’ (Janet) Karvel Jr. of Dexter, two sisters; Marilyn Benson of Jonesville, MI, and Jean (Robert) Fenton of Mancelona. Also surviving are 16 grandchildren and onr great-granddaughter. Judy was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter-in-law Mary Beth Boyer, and brother-in-law George Benson. Funeral services will be Thursday, January 5, 2006 at the first United Methodist Church with Rev. Joy Barrett officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy can be made to First United Methodist Church Summer Youth Camp Scholarship Fund, American Cancer Association, or Hospice of Michigan. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 North Main Street, Chelsea on Tuesday from 7-9 p.m. and Wednesday 2-5 and 7-9p.m. and Thursday 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.
Earl D. Stoker
Of Chelsea, MI
Age 76, passed away Sunday, December 25, 2005 at Chelsea Community Hospital. He was born on August 25, 1929 in Grass Lake, Michigan the son of Raymond and Bessie (Katz) Stoker. Earl had worked for Crownover concrete products in Jackson for 32 plus years. He was a veteran of the Korean War serving in the United States Army. He and Madelyn Foley were married in Chelsea in 1964 and she survives. Also surviving are six children, Jim (Kaye) Taylor of Chelsea, Tom (Brenda-deceased) Taylor of Chelsea, John (Kathryn) Taylor of Chelsea, Debbie (Rev. Jim) Merrill of Florida, Lisa Bertke of Whitmore Lake, and Valerie (Kent) Mayhall of Texas. Also surviving are 12 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters, Lloyd (Pat) Stoker of Grass Lake, Don Stoker of Jackson, Bob Stoker of Grass Lake, Gary Stoker of Jackson, Marilyn (Gale) Loveland of Grass Lake, Margaret Corey of Grass Lake, Doris (Dick) Edinger of Jackson, Janet (Chuck) Ellis of Grass Lake, and Ruth Stoker of Mesa, AZ. He was preceded n death by one granddaughter, Sarah Taylor, and three brothers, Jack, Howard, and Keith Stoker also one sister, Betty Walbrook-Baker. Funeral services will be Tuesday December 27, 2005 at 11:00 A.M. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Rev. Dr. Jim T. Merrill officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy can be made to American Lung Association. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Monday from 6-8 P.M. also Tuesday from 10:00 AM until the time of service.
Of Chelsea, MI
Age 76, passed away Sunday, December 25, 2005 at Chelsea Community Hospital. He was born on August 25, 1929 in Grass Lake, Michigan the son of Raymond and Bessie (Katz) Stoker. Earl had worked for Crownover concrete products in Jackson for 32 plus years. He was a veteran of the Korean War serving in the United States Army. He and Madelyn Foley were married in Chelsea in 1964 and she survives. Also surviving are six children, Jim (Kaye) Taylor of Chelsea, Tom (Brenda-deceased) Taylor of Chelsea, John (Kathryn) Taylor of Chelsea, Debbie (Rev. Jim) Merrill of Florida, Lisa Bertke of Whitmore Lake, and Valerie (Kent) Mayhall of Texas. Also surviving are 12 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; brothers and sisters, Lloyd (Pat) Stoker of Grass Lake, Don Stoker of Jackson, Bob Stoker of Grass Lake, Gary Stoker of Jackson, Marilyn (Gale) Loveland of Grass Lake, Margaret Corey of Grass Lake, Doris (Dick) Edinger of Jackson, Janet (Chuck) Ellis of Grass Lake, and Ruth Stoker of Mesa, AZ. He was preceded n death by one granddaughter, Sarah Taylor, and three brothers, Jack, Howard, and Keith Stoker also one sister, Betty Walbrook-Baker. Funeral services will be Tuesday December 27, 2005 at 11:00 A.M. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Rev. Dr. Jim T. Merrill officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy can be made to American Lung Association. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Monday from 6-8 P.M. also Tuesday from 10:00 AM until the time of service.
Carol Jean (Bame) Hogan
Of Ann Arbor
Age 81 died at the Sunrise Ann Arbor South Assisted Living Center on Tuesday. She was born the daughter of Cloyce and Florence (Schlaak) Bame on April 10, 1924 in Bluffton, OH. Carol married Harold J. Hogan on February 24, 1952 and he preceded her in death in 1979. Carol was a kindergarten teacher for over 30 years in the Ann Arbor School system where she helped shape the lives of hundreds of children. Carol also enjoyed the outdoors, her pets, feeding birds and working in her garden. She is survived by her daughter Corky (Mac) Fraker of Chelsea; her sister Juanita Jonnie(Albert) Shock of Dayton, OH; and her niece and nephew Cathy Reigelsperger and Wes Shock. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Best Friends Animal Society . At the request of the family all services are private. Arrangements are by the Staffan-Mitchell funeral home.
Of Ann Arbor
Age 81 died at the Sunrise Ann Arbor South Assisted Living Center on Tuesday. She was born the daughter of Cloyce and Florence (Schlaak) Bame on April 10, 1924 in Bluffton, OH. Carol married Harold J. Hogan on February 24, 1952 and he preceded her in death in 1979. Carol was a kindergarten teacher for over 30 years in the Ann Arbor School system where she helped shape the lives of hundreds of children. Carol also enjoyed the outdoors, her pets, feeding birds and working in her garden. She is survived by her daughter Corky (Mac) Fraker of Chelsea; her sister Juanita Jonnie(Albert) Shock of Dayton, OH; and her niece and nephew Cathy Reigelsperger and Wes Shock. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Best Friends Animal Society . At the request of the family all services are private. Arrangements are by the Staffan-Mitchell funeral home.
Ann Lee
of Chelsea, MI.
Age 66, passed away Monday December 19, 2005 at her home. She was born on April 10, 1939 in Pittsfield, Mass., the daughter of John and Sylvia (Carpenter) Russ. Ann lived in the area since 1973 and was the First United Methodist Church Financial Secretary and Choir member for many years. She received her BA in Music Education from Skidmore College and then began teaching in Georgia. In 1995 she started her own travel agency in Chelsea called Leeward Travel Associates. On June 29, 1963 she married Richard O. Lee, who preceded her in death on June 24, 2000. Surviving are four children, Rev. Melanie (Jon) Lee Carey of Ypsilanti, Becca (Greg Whitley) Lee of Ann Arbor, Tucker (Jessica Lynn) Lee of New York, and Armando Lee of Chelsea, brothers and sisters, James (Susan) Russ of Maryland, Freddie (Brian) Jones of Vermont, Peggy (Chauncy) Varney of Vermont, Connie (Paul) Medak of California, and Trudy (Seth) Russ of New York, three grandchildren, Nick and Grace Carey and Maggie Lee. She was also preceded in death by her parents. A memorial service will be Wednesday, December 28, 2005 at 11:00 AM at the First United Methodist Church of Chelsea, 128 Park Street, with Rev. Joy Barrett and Rev. Barbara Lewis-Lakin co-officiating. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the First United Methodist Church of Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the First United Methodist Church of Chelsea on Tuesday, December 27, 2005 from 7-9 PM. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.
of Chelsea, MI.
Age 66, passed away Monday December 19, 2005 at her home. She was born on April 10, 1939 in Pittsfield, Mass., the daughter of John and Sylvia (Carpenter) Russ. Ann lived in the area since 1973 and was the First United Methodist Church Financial Secretary and Choir member for many years. She received her BA in Music Education from Skidmore College and then began teaching in Georgia. In 1995 she started her own travel agency in Chelsea called Leeward Travel Associates. On June 29, 1963 she married Richard O. Lee, who preceded her in death on June 24, 2000. Surviving are four children, Rev. Melanie (Jon) Lee Carey of Ypsilanti, Becca (Greg Whitley) Lee of Ann Arbor, Tucker (Jessica Lynn) Lee of New York, and Armando Lee of Chelsea, brothers and sisters, James (Susan) Russ of Maryland, Freddie (Brian) Jones of Vermont, Peggy (Chauncy) Varney of Vermont, Connie (Paul) Medak of California, and Trudy (Seth) Russ of New York, three grandchildren, Nick and Grace Carey and Maggie Lee. She was also preceded in death by her parents. A memorial service will be Wednesday, December 28, 2005 at 11:00 AM at the First United Methodist Church of Chelsea, 128 Park Street, with Rev. Joy Barrett and Rev. Barbara Lewis-Lakin co-officiating. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the First United Methodist Church of Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the First United Methodist Church of Chelsea on Tuesday, December 27, 2005 from 7-9 PM. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.
Thomas Wojciehowski
of Riverside, California
formerly of Chelsea
Age 55 died December 19, 2005 at his home in California. He was born in Jackson, MI the son of Francis and Catherine (Collins) Wojciehowski on October 2, 1950. Thomas had a passion for foreign cars, warm weather and the Ocean. He also loved teaching and helping special needs children. Thomas was a licensed Social Worker and Director of Family Groups Homes Inc. before moving to California. Once in California he received his PhD in Educational Administration and Behavior Modification from LaVerne University. Once he received his doctorate, Thomas was a special needs teacher at the California State Hospital, and from there he acted as the following in a long Career within the field of special needs children: Director of Special Education Teacher In-servicing for Northern California, Director of Beaumont School for Boys, Principal of Hesperia Special Needs Elementary School, Principal of Ontario, California Special Education High School, part time instructor in special education social work at California State, San Bernadino. He is survived by his sister Joanne Waller of Chelsea, and his two nephews; Charles F. Waller of Northport, FL and Edward L (Sarah) Waller of Oakland, MI. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, December 28 at the Staffan Mitchell Funeral Home at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Deacon Myra Colvin officiating. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Michigan.
of Riverside, California
formerly of Chelsea
Age 55 died December 19, 2005 at his home in California. He was born in Jackson, MI the son of Francis and Catherine (Collins) Wojciehowski on October 2, 1950. Thomas had a passion for foreign cars, warm weather and the Ocean. He also loved teaching and helping special needs children. Thomas was a licensed Social Worker and Director of Family Groups Homes Inc. before moving to California. Once in California he received his PhD in Educational Administration and Behavior Modification from LaVerne University. Once he received his doctorate, Thomas was a special needs teacher at the California State Hospital, and from there he acted as the following in a long Career within the field of special needs children: Director of Special Education Teacher In-servicing for Northern California, Director of Beaumont School for Boys, Principal of Hesperia Special Needs Elementary School, Principal of Ontario, California Special Education High School, part time instructor in special education social work at California State, San Bernadino. He is survived by his sister Joanne Waller of Chelsea, and his two nephews; Charles F. Waller of Northport, FL and Edward L (Sarah) Waller of Oakland, MI. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, December 28 at the Staffan Mitchell Funeral Home at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Deacon Myra Colvin officiating. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Michigan.
Arthur I. Randall
of Lansing, Mi.
Age 79, passed away Sunday December 18, 2005 in Lansing. He was born on March 9, 1927 the son of Pearl and Ethel (Johnson) Randall. Art had worked for Bent Tube Mfg. in Fowlerville for several years. He was preceded in death by his wife Mollie in 1986. Graveside services will be held Friday December 23, 2005 at 11:00 A.M. at the North Stockbridge Cemetery with Rev Robert Castle officiating. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Home.
of Lansing, Mi.
Age 79, passed away Sunday December 18, 2005 in Lansing. He was born on March 9, 1927 the son of Pearl and Ethel (Johnson) Randall. Art had worked for Bent Tube Mfg. in Fowlerville for several years. He was preceded in death by his wife Mollie in 1986. Graveside services will be held Friday December 23, 2005 at 11:00 A.M. at the North Stockbridge Cemetery with Rev Robert Castle officiating. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Home.
Dr. Jerald Lewis Flinn, DC
Of Dexter
Dr. Jerald Lewis Flinn passed away Thursday evening December 15, 2005 after a brief illness. He was born January 2, 1936 in Marion, Michigan, the son of William Lee and Ellen Edna (Lewis) Flinn. He is survived by his loving wife Patricia A. (Marshall) Flinn, his two children Bryce J. Flinn of Jackson and Larie Sue (Jack) Lawson of Milan. Also surviving are his grandchildren and great grandchildren Latrica Sue Lawson, William Edward Lawson, Tammy Lynn Lawson, Stephanie (Mark) Kingen, Lawrence Russell Crawford and Doug Cruz; Micah, Malachi and Matthias. One brother Glenn Arthur (Bonnie) Flinn of St. Ignance, MI and many nieces and nephewsare also survive Dr. Flinn. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers Francis and Eugene. Dr. Flinn was a graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic and had served Chelsea and the surrounding area for 32 years. He loved to travel with his wife in his 1961 Corvair automobile. He also enjoyed working on Corvairs with and for his friends. Funeral services will be held Monday December 19, 2005 at 11:00 AM at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 North Main Street, Chelsea with Rev. Larry Lyons, Pastor of the Chelsea Free Methodist Church officiating. The family will receive friends Saturday and Sunday at the funeral home from 2-5 PM and 7-9PM. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Palmer Chiropractic College of Davenport, IA, the Chelsea Free Methodist Church Building Fund or the Corvair Preservation Foundation.
Of Dexter
Dr. Jerald Lewis Flinn passed away Thursday evening December 15, 2005 after a brief illness. He was born January 2, 1936 in Marion, Michigan, the son of William Lee and Ellen Edna (Lewis) Flinn. He is survived by his loving wife Patricia A. (Marshall) Flinn, his two children Bryce J. Flinn of Jackson and Larie Sue (Jack) Lawson of Milan. Also surviving are his grandchildren and great grandchildren Latrica Sue Lawson, William Edward Lawson, Tammy Lynn Lawson, Stephanie (Mark) Kingen, Lawrence Russell Crawford and Doug Cruz; Micah, Malachi and Matthias. One brother Glenn Arthur (Bonnie) Flinn of St. Ignance, MI and many nieces and nephewsare also survive Dr. Flinn. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers Francis and Eugene. Dr. Flinn was a graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic and had served Chelsea and the surrounding area for 32 years. He loved to travel with his wife in his 1961 Corvair automobile. He also enjoyed working on Corvairs with and for his friends. Funeral services will be held Monday December 19, 2005 at 11:00 AM at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 North Main Street, Chelsea with Rev. Larry Lyons, Pastor of the Chelsea Free Methodist Church officiating. The family will receive friends Saturday and Sunday at the funeral home from 2-5 PM and 7-9PM. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Palmer Chiropractic College of Davenport, IA, the Chelsea Free Methodist Church Building Fund or the Corvair Preservation Foundation.
Ivan Gene Cowan
of Truth or Consequences, NM
Formerly of Stockbridge, MI
Age 76 died Saturday, December 10 at Metroplex Hospital, Killeen, Texas. Gene was born the son of Marion (Pete) Cowan and June (Mullins) Cowan on August 6, 1929 in McGuffy, OH. In 1948 he married Eileen Delores Carr and she preceded him in death. Gene loved spending time with the family and was always ready for a fishing trip, hunting the Rockies, cross-word puzzles, or tinkering with antique automobiles. He enjoyed prospecting, reading, and spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Gene was a retiree of DaimlerChrysler Corporation employed at the Chrysler Proving Grounds for 30-years and was a UAW member. Gene is survived by his two children; Gene Cowan of Harker Heights, Texas, and Nancy (Lon) Cooper of Harker Heights, Texas. He is also survived by his grandchildren Sean (Laura) Cowan, Darren Cowan, Denise (Paul) Cooper, Tressa (Jeff) Barnett, Danielle (Travis) Conti, Andrew (AJ) Cowan, and great grandchildren Taylor Cooper, Sydney Hill, Cami Bogdan, Nadia Cowan and Sarah Barnett as well as, many cousins, aunts and uncles. In addition to his parents and wife, Gene was preceded in death by his brother Donald Glenn Cowan, and his grandchildren Merilee Kim and Robert Gene Cooper. Funeral services will be held Friday, December 16, at 11:00 a.m. at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge. Expressions of sympathy can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The family will receive friends Wednesday for 7-9 p.m. and Thursday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. at the Funeral Home
of Truth or Consequences, NM
Formerly of Stockbridge, MI
Age 76 died Saturday, December 10 at Metroplex Hospital, Killeen, Texas. Gene was born the son of Marion (Pete) Cowan and June (Mullins) Cowan on August 6, 1929 in McGuffy, OH. In 1948 he married Eileen Delores Carr and she preceded him in death. Gene loved spending time with the family and was always ready for a fishing trip, hunting the Rockies, cross-word puzzles, or tinkering with antique automobiles. He enjoyed prospecting, reading, and spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Gene was a retiree of DaimlerChrysler Corporation employed at the Chrysler Proving Grounds for 30-years and was a UAW member. Gene is survived by his two children; Gene Cowan of Harker Heights, Texas, and Nancy (Lon) Cooper of Harker Heights, Texas. He is also survived by his grandchildren Sean (Laura) Cowan, Darren Cowan, Denise (Paul) Cooper, Tressa (Jeff) Barnett, Danielle (Travis) Conti, Andrew (AJ) Cowan, and great grandchildren Taylor Cooper, Sydney Hill, Cami Bogdan, Nadia Cowan and Sarah Barnett as well as, many cousins, aunts and uncles. In addition to his parents and wife, Gene was preceded in death by his brother Donald Glenn Cowan, and his grandchildren Merilee Kim and Robert Gene Cooper. Funeral services will be held Friday, December 16, at 11:00 a.m. at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge. Expressions of sympathy can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The family will receive friends Wednesday for 7-9 p.m. and Thursday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. at the Funeral Home
Maxine Virginia Ferguson
of Jackson
Formerly of Stanwood, MI
Age 83 died Tuesday at Foote Hospital. Maxine was born the daughter of Lloyd and Jennie (Brice) Dickenson on February 16, 1922 in Applegate, MI. In 1961 she married Arnold Ferguson and he preceded her in death. Maxine loved parties with the family and was always ready for a good time. She enjoyed reading, and spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Maxine is survived by her four children; Judith (Bob) Herndon of Stanwood, Janet (Ralph) Turco of Gregory, Jackie (Michael) Robertson of Taylor and Arnold (Tracey) Ferguson of Dearborn Heights. She is also survived by her brother Kenneth Dickinson of Port Huron, 14 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren as well as, many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, Maxine was preceded in death by her brothers Donald and Amos Dickinson and her sister Dorris Lindsey. Funeral Services will be held Friday, December 9, at 1:00 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Hospice of Jackson at Oaklawn. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. A private burial will take place at Hillside Cemetery in Bellville at a latter date.
of Jackson
Formerly of Stanwood, MI
Age 83 died Tuesday at Foote Hospital. Maxine was born the daughter of Lloyd and Jennie (Brice) Dickenson on February 16, 1922 in Applegate, MI. In 1961 she married Arnold Ferguson and he preceded her in death. Maxine loved parties with the family and was always ready for a good time. She enjoyed reading, and spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Maxine is survived by her four children; Judith (Bob) Herndon of Stanwood, Janet (Ralph) Turco of Gregory, Jackie (Michael) Robertson of Taylor and Arnold (Tracey) Ferguson of Dearborn Heights. She is also survived by her brother Kenneth Dickinson of Port Huron, 14 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren as well as, many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, Maxine was preceded in death by her brothers Donald and Amos Dickinson and her sister Dorris Lindsey. Funeral Services will be held Friday, December 9, at 1:00 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Hospice of Jackson at Oaklawn. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. A private burial will take place at Hillside Cemetery in Bellville at a latter date.
Esther Heitwole
of Chelsea
formerly of Newport Richey, FL
Age 93 died at Silver Maples on November 29. She was born in Carsonville, Michigan on February 23, 1912. She married Howard H. Heitwole on April 14, in 1950 and he preceded her in death. Esther enjoyed playing cards, bingo, traveling and camping. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Esther is survived by her grandchildren; Debbie (Jay Butler) Moore of Chelsea, Tony (Patti) Wisniewski of Chelsea; her great grandchildren Bobby, Shawn, Billy Vasas, Brittney More, Jessica and Daniel Wisniewski. She is also survived by her son-in-law Tony Wisniewski. In addition to her husband, Esther is preceded in death by her daughter Beverly Wisniewski; her brothers and sister Harvey and Walter Massman and Elta Schumaker. A memorial service will be held Friday, December 2, at Silver Maples at 3:30 with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. Expression of sympathy may be made to the Meadows at Silver Maples. The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff of Silver Maples for their care of Esther. Arrangements are by the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.
of Chelsea
formerly of Newport Richey, FL
Age 93 died at Silver Maples on November 29. She was born in Carsonville, Michigan on February 23, 1912. She married Howard H. Heitwole on April 14, in 1950 and he preceded her in death. Esther enjoyed playing cards, bingo, traveling and camping. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Esther is survived by her grandchildren; Debbie (Jay Butler) Moore of Chelsea, Tony (Patti) Wisniewski of Chelsea; her great grandchildren Bobby, Shawn, Billy Vasas, Brittney More, Jessica and Daniel Wisniewski. She is also survived by her son-in-law Tony Wisniewski. In addition to her husband, Esther is preceded in death by her daughter Beverly Wisniewski; her brothers and sister Harvey and Walter Massman and Elta Schumaker. A memorial service will be held Friday, December 2, at Silver Maples at 3:30 with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. Expression of sympathy may be made to the Meadows at Silver Maples. The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff of Silver Maples for their care of Esther. Arrangements are by the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.
Ray E. Knickerbocker of Chelsea, age 77, died Sunday evening November 27, 2005, in the comfort of his home and family. Born July 27, 1928, the son of Maynard L. and Ethel (Kennedy) Knickerbocker, he was a lifetime resident of Chelsea. Ray enjoyed several careers ranging from owner of Heirloom Photographic Studios in Chelsea, carpentry with Associated Builders, and machine repair at Chelsea Milling Company where he retired in 1997. He was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. He loved gatherings of family and friends, especially at Cavanaugh Lake where the Knickerbocker family has a long history. Ray was a member of St. Paul United Church of Christ where he taught Sunday School for many years and married A. Louise Salyer on August 31, 1957.
Mr. Knickerbocker is survived by his wife Louise, five children, and five grandchildren: Terri Raye Alcazar and her fiancee Bruce Wildey, Brian T. Knickerbocker and Bradley J. (Patricia J.) Knickerbocker all of Chelsea, Brett P. Knickerbocker of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Heidi A. (Ryan ) Farris of Rochester Hills, Michigan. His grandchildren are Travis Ray Alcazar, Sarah and Grace Knickerbocker, and Carter and Gavin Farris. He is also survived by a very special nephew J. Gregory (Pam) Howard of Kentucky as well as many other nieces and nephews.
Mr. Knickerbocker had six brothers and one sister. Survived by Clare Knickerbocker of Chelsea, Dorothy Collins of Jackson, David (Carole) Knickerbocker of Reno, Nevada, and Alfred (Deanna) Knickerbocker of California. He was preceded in death by George Knickerbocker of Chelsea, Stanley Knickerbocker of Arizona, and Harvey Knickerbocker of California. Survived by three sisters-in-law Elaine (George) Knickerbocker, Diane (Stanley) Knickerbocker, and Jeanne (Harvey) Knickerbocker.
Funeral services will be held at St. Paul United Church of Christ on Thursday, December 1, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. Internment will be in Chelsea at Oak Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 7-9 p.m. and Wednesday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Paul United Church of Christ in Chelsea, Michigan, or the American Cancer Society.
Mr. Knickerbocker is survived by his wife Louise, five children, and five grandchildren: Terri Raye Alcazar and her fiancee Bruce Wildey, Brian T. Knickerbocker and Bradley J. (Patricia J.) Knickerbocker all of Chelsea, Brett P. Knickerbocker of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Heidi A. (Ryan ) Farris of Rochester Hills, Michigan. His grandchildren are Travis Ray Alcazar, Sarah and Grace Knickerbocker, and Carter and Gavin Farris. He is also survived by a very special nephew J. Gregory (Pam) Howard of Kentucky as well as many other nieces and nephews.
Mr. Knickerbocker had six brothers and one sister. Survived by Clare Knickerbocker of Chelsea, Dorothy Collins of Jackson, David (Carole) Knickerbocker of Reno, Nevada, and Alfred (Deanna) Knickerbocker of California. He was preceded in death by George Knickerbocker of Chelsea, Stanley Knickerbocker of Arizona, and Harvey Knickerbocker of California. Survived by three sisters-in-law Elaine (George) Knickerbocker, Diane (Stanley) Knickerbocker, and Jeanne (Harvey) Knickerbocker.
Funeral services will be held at St. Paul United Church of Christ on Thursday, December 1, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. Internment will be in Chelsea at Oak Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 7-9 p.m. and Wednesday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Paul United Church of Christ in Chelsea, Michigan, or the American Cancer Society.
Robert Dale Ball Jr.
Of Chelsea, Mi.,
Age 43, passed away Sunday morning November 27, 2005 at the University of Michigan
Hospital. He was born on August 4, 1962 in Ann Arbor, Michigan the son of Robert D. and Margaret Alice (Simpson) Ball Sr. Robert had graduated from Chelsea High School in 1980. He worked for Sweepster Attachments in Dexter as a Product Engineer for 25 years. He enjoyed hunting , fishing, Harley Davidson motor cycles, and NASCAR races. On July 15, 1983 he married Eileen A. Stapish in Chelsea, and she survives. Also surviving are his parents, of Chelsea, two sons, Robert D. Ball III, and Tyler M. Ball all of Chelsea, one brother, William (Shasey) Ball of Chelsea, two sisters, Elizabeth Ball and Shawn (Bill) Mikkelson all of Chelsea, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Charles and Jeanne Stapish of Chelsea, two brothers-in-law Mark Stapish of Tecumseh, and Michael Stapish of Chelsea, and a special cousin Robert Gimmey of Chelsea. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Dale Hepburn, and Alberta Slane, his maternal grandparents William and Kathryn Simpson, and one brother-in-law Mathew Stapish. Funeral services will be Thursday, December 1, 2005 at 11:00 AM from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Deacon Richard Shaneyfelt officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the children’s educational fund. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Tuesday and Wednesday from 6-9PM.
Of Chelsea, Mi.,
Age 43, passed away Sunday morning November 27, 2005 at the University of Michigan
Hospital. He was born on August 4, 1962 in Ann Arbor, Michigan the son of Robert D. and Margaret Alice (Simpson) Ball Sr. Robert had graduated from Chelsea High School in 1980. He worked for Sweepster Attachments in Dexter as a Product Engineer for 25 years. He enjoyed hunting , fishing, Harley Davidson motor cycles, and NASCAR races. On July 15, 1983 he married Eileen A. Stapish in Chelsea, and she survives. Also surviving are his parents, of Chelsea, two sons, Robert D. Ball III, and Tyler M. Ball all of Chelsea, one brother, William (Shasey) Ball of Chelsea, two sisters, Elizabeth Ball and Shawn (Bill) Mikkelson all of Chelsea, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Charles and Jeanne Stapish of Chelsea, two brothers-in-law Mark Stapish of Tecumseh, and Michael Stapish of Chelsea, and a special cousin Robert Gimmey of Chelsea. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Dale Hepburn, and Alberta Slane, his maternal grandparents William and Kathryn Simpson, and one brother-in-law Mathew Stapish. Funeral services will be Thursday, December 1, 2005 at 11:00 AM from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Deacon Richard Shaneyfelt officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the children’s educational fund. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Tuesday and Wednesday from 6-9PM.
Walter ’Wally’ Reyes
of Jackson
Age 63 died at Foote hospital on November 23. He was born the son of Joseph and Ida (Hoaks) Reyes on January 31, 1942. In September of 1982 he married Hazel (Clemons) and she survives. Wally enjoyed hunting, fishing, Boating, Reading about history and Woodworking. He also enjoyed restoring antique John Deere tractors and old Cars. Most of all he enjoyed being with family, especially his special grandson Josh. In addition to his wife, Wally is survived by his children; John K. (Nichole) Salyer of Jackson, Natasha D. (Shane Jones) Jeffries of Jackson, Mary J. (Ken) Hamlin of Onodaga, and Noreen S. (Aaron) Christianson of Manitou Beach. Also Are his brothers and sisters; Linda Lounsbury, Marie George, Jill (Dennis) Price and Joseph (Leeann) Howe. He is also survived by 18 grandchildren and one great grandchild as well as many nieces and nephews. Wally was preceded in death by his parents and stepfather Harold Hoaks, best friend Ishmael Clemons and his special companion Apollo. Funeral services will be Monday, November 28 ant 2:00 p.m. at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Salvation Army. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday from 6-9 p.m. and Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.
of Jackson
Age 63 died at Foote hospital on November 23. He was born the son of Joseph and Ida (Hoaks) Reyes on January 31, 1942. In September of 1982 he married Hazel (Clemons) and she survives. Wally enjoyed hunting, fishing, Boating, Reading about history and Woodworking. He also enjoyed restoring antique John Deere tractors and old Cars. Most of all he enjoyed being with family, especially his special grandson Josh. In addition to his wife, Wally is survived by his children; John K. (Nichole) Salyer of Jackson, Natasha D. (Shane Jones) Jeffries of Jackson, Mary J. (Ken) Hamlin of Onodaga, and Noreen S. (Aaron) Christianson of Manitou Beach. Also Are his brothers and sisters; Linda Lounsbury, Marie George, Jill (Dennis) Price and Joseph (Leeann) Howe. He is also survived by 18 grandchildren and one great grandchild as well as many nieces and nephews. Wally was preceded in death by his parents and stepfather Harold Hoaks, best friend Ishmael Clemons and his special companion Apollo. Funeral services will be Monday, November 28 ant 2:00 p.m. at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Salvation Army. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday from 6-9 p.m. and Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.
John (Jack) M. Parisho
of Chelsea, MI.
Age 75, passed away Wednesday November 23, 2005 surrounded by his family at his home. He was born on August 12, 1930 in Des Moines, Iowa the son of Merlin and Ethel (McClure) Parisho. Jack had lived in Chelsea since 1972 and was a former member and trustee of North Lake United Methodist Church. He was a veteran of the Korean War serving in the United States Army. For 33 years he worked for Michigan Bell and retired as a supervisor in 1988. Gardening was a passion, his vegetable and his iris beds where incredible. He enjoyed bird watching, traveling, and had a great love for all animals. Jack also was a former Boy Scout leader. On November 11, 1950 he married Virginia J. Groomes in Ann Arbor, and she survives; also surviving are their children, John R. Parisho, James ’Jay’(Diane) Parisho, and Rebecca (Jeff) Murillo, all of Chelsea, and Dennis (Jennifer) Parisho of Gregory, 10 grandchildren, John M. Parisho II, Lisa M. ( Nick Harms) Parisho, Jayson J. Murillo, Scott J. Parisho, Jesse M. Murillo, Aaron M. Parisho, Tara N. Murillo, Shawn J. Parisho, Lindsay N. Parisho, and baby Parisho on the way, one great-grandchild, Brock R. Harms. He was preceded in death by his parents. Funeral services will be Monday November 28, 2005 at 11:00 A.M. at the First United Methodist Church, Chelsea with Rev. Joy Barrett and Rev. John Elliott officiating. Burial will follow at Washtenong Memorial Park and Mausoleum. Expression of sympathy can be made to Friends of Wildlife, Rescue, Rehabilitation, Release PO Box 1505, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48106. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea Saturday from 7-9 P.M. also Sunday from 2-4 and 7-9 P.M.
of Chelsea, MI.
Age 75, passed away Wednesday November 23, 2005 surrounded by his family at his home. He was born on August 12, 1930 in Des Moines, Iowa the son of Merlin and Ethel (McClure) Parisho. Jack had lived in Chelsea since 1972 and was a former member and trustee of North Lake United Methodist Church. He was a veteran of the Korean War serving in the United States Army. For 33 years he worked for Michigan Bell and retired as a supervisor in 1988. Gardening was a passion, his vegetable and his iris beds where incredible. He enjoyed bird watching, traveling, and had a great love for all animals. Jack also was a former Boy Scout leader. On November 11, 1950 he married Virginia J. Groomes in Ann Arbor, and she survives; also surviving are their children, John R. Parisho, James ’Jay’(Diane) Parisho, and Rebecca (Jeff) Murillo, all of Chelsea, and Dennis (Jennifer) Parisho of Gregory, 10 grandchildren, John M. Parisho II, Lisa M. ( Nick Harms) Parisho, Jayson J. Murillo, Scott J. Parisho, Jesse M. Murillo, Aaron M. Parisho, Tara N. Murillo, Shawn J. Parisho, Lindsay N. Parisho, and baby Parisho on the way, one great-grandchild, Brock R. Harms. He was preceded in death by his parents. Funeral services will be Monday November 28, 2005 at 11:00 A.M. at the First United Methodist Church, Chelsea with Rev. Joy Barrett and Rev. John Elliott officiating. Burial will follow at Washtenong Memorial Park and Mausoleum. Expression of sympathy can be made to Friends of Wildlife, Rescue, Rehabilitation, Release PO Box 1505, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48106. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea Saturday from 7-9 P.M. also Sunday from 2-4 and 7-9 P.M.
John W. Gillespie of Chelsea
Age 76, died unexpectedly Saturday afternoon at Chelsea
Community Hospital. He was born February 9, 1929 in Flint, Michigan, the son of Clifton Clay and Carolyn N.Dennington Gillespie. John had lived in the Chelsea and Dexter area since 1969 and was an entrepreneur and engineer. In 1963 with his brother Donald, he co founded Jodon Engineering Associates and was still involved with the business at the time of his death. Mr. Gillespie was very active in Boy Scout Troop 477 of Dexter for 31 years and had been assistant scout master and served as troop committee chairman. He was a veteran of WW11 serving the US Army Air Force. Mr. Gillespie was an avid pilot and loved to fly. He currently was flying a ’Swift’ and was a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association of Ann Arbor . He loved spending time at and windsurfing on Higgins Lake. John was a proud graduate of Michigan State University, class of 1952. He was also a former member of the Dexter Twp. planning commission. He is survived by his wife Virginia E. (Griffith), whom he married in Detroit on August 23, 1952. Also surviving is his son Michael J. (Cindy) Gillespie of Chelsea and four grandchildren Christina (Mark) Motsinger, Jessica Gillespie, Timothy Gillespie and Matthew A.
Krakowiak, five great grandchildren Felecia, Matthew, Brittney, Cynthia,and Samantha. Three brothers Clifton Clay ’Jack’ (Lee) Gillespie of Three Rivers, MI, George R. (Mary Lou) Gillespie of Chocktaw, Oklahoma and Donald E. Gillespie of Ann Arbor and his sister Mary Beth (Dennis) Wrubel of Canton, Michigan. Mr. Gillespie was preceded in death by his parents, a son Timothy Clay Gillespie in 1979 and a granddaughter Shawna M. Krakowiak on August 10, 2004. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, November 23, 2005 at 11:00 AM at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Rev. Dale A. Grimm of Our Savior Lutheran Church officiating. The family will receive friends Monday evening from 6-8 PM and Tuesday from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM at the funeral home. Burial will be in the North Lake Cemetery, Dexter Township. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the John and Timothy Gillespie Memorial Fund; a Boy Scout summer camp fund for those boys who show an exceptional scouting spirit.
Age 76, died unexpectedly Saturday afternoon at Chelsea
Community Hospital. He was born February 9, 1929 in Flint, Michigan, the son of Clifton Clay and Carolyn N.Dennington Gillespie. John had lived in the Chelsea and Dexter area since 1969 and was an entrepreneur and engineer. In 1963 with his brother Donald, he co founded Jodon Engineering Associates and was still involved with the business at the time of his death. Mr. Gillespie was very active in Boy Scout Troop 477 of Dexter for 31 years and had been assistant scout master and served as troop committee chairman. He was a veteran of WW11 serving the US Army Air Force. Mr. Gillespie was an avid pilot and loved to fly. He currently was flying a ’Swift’ and was a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association of Ann Arbor . He loved spending time at and windsurfing on Higgins Lake. John was a proud graduate of Michigan State University, class of 1952. He was also a former member of the Dexter Twp. planning commission. He is survived by his wife Virginia E. (Griffith), whom he married in Detroit on August 23, 1952. Also surviving is his son Michael J. (Cindy) Gillespie of Chelsea and four grandchildren Christina (Mark) Motsinger, Jessica Gillespie, Timothy Gillespie and Matthew A.
Krakowiak, five great grandchildren Felecia, Matthew, Brittney, Cynthia,and Samantha. Three brothers Clifton Clay ’Jack’ (Lee) Gillespie of Three Rivers, MI, George R. (Mary Lou) Gillespie of Chocktaw, Oklahoma and Donald E. Gillespie of Ann Arbor and his sister Mary Beth (Dennis) Wrubel of Canton, Michigan. Mr. Gillespie was preceded in death by his parents, a son Timothy Clay Gillespie in 1979 and a granddaughter Shawna M. Krakowiak on August 10, 2004. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, November 23, 2005 at 11:00 AM at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Rev. Dale A. Grimm of Our Savior Lutheran Church officiating. The family will receive friends Monday evening from 6-8 PM and Tuesday from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM at the funeral home. Burial will be in the North Lake Cemetery, Dexter Township. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the John and Timothy Gillespie Memorial Fund; a Boy Scout summer camp fund for those boys who show an exceptional scouting spirit.
Dwight C. Bingel
of Chelsea
Age 78, died Friday, November 18 in his home. He was born May 12, 1927, in Ann Arbor , Michigan. He was the son of Oswald and Genevieve(Ryder) Bingel. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Joan(Munro) and children, Dennis of Henderson, Nevada, Kevin(Carol) of Chelsea, Brian of Salt Lake City, Utah, and David(Lisa) of Chelsea. Also surviving are his grandchildren Daniel, Sarah, and Megan and his brother, Duane(Jean) of Suttons Bay, Michigan. He retired from General Motors in 1987. A memorial service will be held Monday November 21, 2005 at 2:00 P.M. from Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home with Pastor Larry Lyons officiating. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Chelsea Free Methodist Church.
of Chelsea
Age 78, died Friday, November 18 in his home. He was born May 12, 1927, in Ann Arbor , Michigan. He was the son of Oswald and Genevieve(Ryder) Bingel. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Joan(Munro) and children, Dennis of Henderson, Nevada, Kevin(Carol) of Chelsea, Brian of Salt Lake City, Utah, and David(Lisa) of Chelsea. Also surviving are his grandchildren Daniel, Sarah, and Megan and his brother, Duane(Jean) of Suttons Bay, Michigan. He retired from General Motors in 1987. A memorial service will be held Monday November 21, 2005 at 2:00 P.M. from Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home with Pastor Larry Lyons officiating. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Chelsea Free Methodist Church.
Robert J. ’Bobaloo’ Badenhoop
Of Munith, Michigan
Age 27, passed away Wednesday November 16, 2005 at Karmanos Cancer Center at
Harper Hospital. He was born on December 30, 1977 in Wayne, Michigan the son of Carl and Diane (James) Badenhoop. Robert had lived in the area for the past 10 years graduating from Stockbridge High School in 1997. He had worked for the Chelsea Retirement Community for 6 years. He enjoyed music, playing the keyboard, and his car, a Mustang GT. Robert had a huge heart and thought of others before himself. His sense of caring and his humor will never be forgotten. Surviving are his mother and father of Munith, his brother Brandon Badenhoop, of Munith, his sister, Angela Cogswell of Wayne, MI, maternal grandparents, Leonard (Shirley) James of Garden City, paternal grandparents, Carl (Doris) Badenhoop, also of Garden City; also several nieces and nephews and a special friend, Tammy. Funeral services will be Monday, November 21, 2005 at 1:00 P.M. from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge with Rev. Jerry Gould officiating. Burial will follow at Munith Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Leukemia Lymphoma Foundation. The family will receive friends at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home Saturday from 6-8 P.M., Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M., also Monday noon until the time of service.
Of Munith, Michigan
Age 27, passed away Wednesday November 16, 2005 at Karmanos Cancer Center at
Harper Hospital. He was born on December 30, 1977 in Wayne, Michigan the son of Carl and Diane (James) Badenhoop. Robert had lived in the area for the past 10 years graduating from Stockbridge High School in 1997. He had worked for the Chelsea Retirement Community for 6 years. He enjoyed music, playing the keyboard, and his car, a Mustang GT. Robert had a huge heart and thought of others before himself. His sense of caring and his humor will never be forgotten. Surviving are his mother and father of Munith, his brother Brandon Badenhoop, of Munith, his sister, Angela Cogswell of Wayne, MI, maternal grandparents, Leonard (Shirley) James of Garden City, paternal grandparents, Carl (Doris) Badenhoop, also of Garden City; also several nieces and nephews and a special friend, Tammy. Funeral services will be Monday, November 21, 2005 at 1:00 P.M. from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge with Rev. Jerry Gould officiating. Burial will follow at Munith Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Leukemia Lymphoma Foundation. The family will receive friends at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home Saturday from 6-8 P.M., Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M., also Monday noon until the time of service.
Delberta Whitaker
Of Munith, MI
Age 67, went to her heavenly home Tuesday, November 15, 2005 at her home. She was born on February 17, 1938 in Riceville, Kentucky the daughter of Bernie and Hazel (Scott) Jackson. She had lived in the area since the early 1950’s and attended Jeruel Baptist Church. Gardening, cooking, and shopping were her favorite pastimes. For over 30 years she worked for the Stockbridge School District retiring in 2000. On August 13, 1953 she married James Whitaker and he preceded her in death on July 6, 2003. Surviving are four children, Clyde (Mary) Whitaker of Stockbridge, Jerry (Melissa) Whitaker of Tampa, FL. Juanita (Therman) Bailey of Fitchburg, and Jennifer (Robert) Harat of Munith. Three brothers, Willis (Ann) Jackson of Stockbridge, Wendall (Sally) Jackson of Chelsea, and Leroy (Cheryl) Jackson of Stockbridge. Two sisters, Dixie (Silas) Salyer of Stockbridge, and Ermalee (Clifford) Marshall of Stockbridge. Also Surviving are 13 grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by two sisters, Barbara Collins and Lorraine Jackson. Funeral services will be Saturday November 19, 2005 at 11:00 A.M. from the Jeruel Baptist Church Munith with Rev. Robert Castle officiating. Burial will follow at Munith Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Jeruel Baptist Church or Jackson County Hospice. The family will receive friends at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home Thursday from 7-9 P.M. also Friday from 2-4 and 7-9 P.M.
Of Munith, MI
Age 67, went to her heavenly home Tuesday, November 15, 2005 at her home. She was born on February 17, 1938 in Riceville, Kentucky the daughter of Bernie and Hazel (Scott) Jackson. She had lived in the area since the early 1950’s and attended Jeruel Baptist Church. Gardening, cooking, and shopping were her favorite pastimes. For over 30 years she worked for the Stockbridge School District retiring in 2000. On August 13, 1953 she married James Whitaker and he preceded her in death on July 6, 2003. Surviving are four children, Clyde (Mary) Whitaker of Stockbridge, Jerry (Melissa) Whitaker of Tampa, FL. Juanita (Therman) Bailey of Fitchburg, and Jennifer (Robert) Harat of Munith. Three brothers, Willis (Ann) Jackson of Stockbridge, Wendall (Sally) Jackson of Chelsea, and Leroy (Cheryl) Jackson of Stockbridge. Two sisters, Dixie (Silas) Salyer of Stockbridge, and Ermalee (Clifford) Marshall of Stockbridge. Also Surviving are 13 grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by two sisters, Barbara Collins and Lorraine Jackson. Funeral services will be Saturday November 19, 2005 at 11:00 A.M. from the Jeruel Baptist Church Munith with Rev. Robert Castle officiating. Burial will follow at Munith Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Jeruel Baptist Church or Jackson County Hospice. The family will receive friends at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home Thursday from 7-9 P.M. also Friday from 2-4 and 7-9 P.M.
Andrew Russell Mackinder
Of Stockbridge
Age 19 died Saturday in Chicago, Illinois. He was born the son of Russell and Valerie (Fletcher) Mackinder on February 17, 1986 and they survive. Andrew was attending the Illinois Institute of Art, Chicago, as a student in graphic design. He enjoyed art, drawing, painting, and computer design. He also enjoyed the outdoors snowboarding, ATVing with his friends and his father. Besides his parents, he is also survived by his sisters Jamie (Chad) Flack of Jackson, Erin Mackinder of Stockbridge; his grandparents Joyce (Wilkie) Fletcher of Stockbridge and Marjorie Mackinder of Jackson. Also surviving are Nephews Alex and Evan Flack, and many aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandfather Richard Mackinder. Funeral services will be Thursday, November 17 at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home with Rev. Shannon O’Leary officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn cemetery, Stockbridge. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Stockbridge High School Art Program. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m.
Of Stockbridge
Age 19 died Saturday in Chicago, Illinois. He was born the son of Russell and Valerie (Fletcher) Mackinder on February 17, 1986 and they survive. Andrew was attending the Illinois Institute of Art, Chicago, as a student in graphic design. He enjoyed art, drawing, painting, and computer design. He also enjoyed the outdoors snowboarding, ATVing with his friends and his father. Besides his parents, he is also survived by his sisters Jamie (Chad) Flack of Jackson, Erin Mackinder of Stockbridge; his grandparents Joyce (Wilkie) Fletcher of Stockbridge and Marjorie Mackinder of Jackson. Also surviving are Nephews Alex and Evan Flack, and many aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandfather Richard Mackinder. Funeral services will be Thursday, November 17 at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home with Rev. Shannon O’Leary officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn cemetery, Stockbridge. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Stockbridge High School Art Program. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m.
Andrew Russell Mackinder
Of Stockbridge
Age 19 died Saturday in Chicago, Illinois. He was born the son of Russell and Valerie (Fletcher) Mackinder on February 17, 1986 and they survive. Andrew was attending the Illinois Institute of Art, Chicago, as a student in graphic design. He enjoyed art, drawing, painting, and computer design. He also enjoyed the outdoors snowboarding, ATVing with his friends and his father. Besides his parents, he is also survived by his sisters Jamie (Chad) Flack of Jackson, Erin Mackinder of Stockbridge; his grandparents Joyce (Wilkie) Fletcher of Stockbridge and Marjorie Mackinder of Jackson. Also surviving are Nephews Alex and Evan Flack, and many aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandfather Richard Mackinder. Funeral services will be Thursday, November 17 at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home with Rev. Shannon O’Leary officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn cemetery, Stockbridge. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Stockbridge High School Art Program. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m.
Of Stockbridge
Age 19 died Saturday in Chicago, Illinois. He was born the son of Russell and Valerie (Fletcher) Mackinder on February 17, 1986 and they survive. Andrew was attending the Illinois Institute of Art, Chicago, as a student in graphic design. He enjoyed art, drawing, painting, and computer design. He also enjoyed the outdoors snowboarding, ATVing with his friends and his father. Besides his parents, he is also survived by his sisters Jamie (Chad) Flack of Jackson, Erin Mackinder of Stockbridge; his grandparents Joyce (Wilkie) Fletcher of Stockbridge and Marjorie Mackinder of Jackson. Also surviving are Nephews Alex and Evan Flack, and many aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandfather Richard Mackinder. Funeral services will be Thursday, November 17 at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home with Rev. Shannon O’Leary officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn cemetery, Stockbridge. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Stockbridge High School Art Program. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m.
Herman L. Tanner
Of Pinckney, MI
Age 87, died at his home on November 9, 2005. He was born the son of Leroy and Eva (Blackman) Tanner on August 5, 1918 in Harrisburg, Illinois. He married Margaret Smith, and she preceded him in death in October of 1976. Herman enjoyed the art of photography, with fall being his favorite season. He also enjoyed computers, Boy Scouts, and animals, especially horses and dogs. He is survived by his children Nancy (Tim) Williams of Foresthill, CA, Laurie (Jim) Godsey of Hampton, VA and Pat (Alicia) Tanner of Dexter, MI. Also surviving are his five grandchildren Casey Morrison, Nicole Godsey, Daniel Tanner, Cheyenne Tanner and Paige Tanner. Herman was also preceded in death by his son Thomas Tanner and his brothers and sisters. Funeral services will Tuesday, November 15, 2005 at 2:00 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea With Rev Winfred French officiating, Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Pinckney, MI. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Great Lakes Hospice. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m.
Of Pinckney, MI
Age 87, died at his home on November 9, 2005. He was born the son of Leroy and Eva (Blackman) Tanner on August 5, 1918 in Harrisburg, Illinois. He married Margaret Smith, and she preceded him in death in October of 1976. Herman enjoyed the art of photography, with fall being his favorite season. He also enjoyed computers, Boy Scouts, and animals, especially horses and dogs. He is survived by his children Nancy (Tim) Williams of Foresthill, CA, Laurie (Jim) Godsey of Hampton, VA and Pat (Alicia) Tanner of Dexter, MI. Also surviving are his five grandchildren Casey Morrison, Nicole Godsey, Daniel Tanner, Cheyenne Tanner and Paige Tanner. Herman was also preceded in death by his son Thomas Tanner and his brothers and sisters. Funeral services will Tuesday, November 15, 2005 at 2:00 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea With Rev Winfred French officiating, Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Pinckney, MI. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Great Lakes Hospice. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m.
Jeffery Glenn Elliott,
Of Gregory, MI
Passed away on Wednesday 9th 2005 at the age of 43. He was preceded in death by his Mother, Jewell Allen-Warner, Father, Sam Elliott Sr., and Stepfather, Robert Warner. Jeff is survived by his three Children Dennis Elliott Sr. (Jessica), Robert Elliott and Nicole Elliott, his four grandchildren Krystal, Allysa, Dennis Jr., and Katie, who he absolutely adored. Jeff is also survived by his five Brothers, Rick (Darcey), Doug (Pam), Brian, & Sam (Wauneta) Elliott, Todd Warner (Elizabeth), special friend and companion Debbie Schenk and many Aunts, Uncles, Nieces and Nephews.
Jeff loved to be outdoors and spend time with family. He will be sadly missed by his family and many friends. Funeral services will be Tuesday, November 15 at 11:00 a.m. at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family. The family wil receive friends at the funeral home on Monday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m.
Of Gregory, MI
Passed away on Wednesday 9th 2005 at the age of 43. He was preceded in death by his Mother, Jewell Allen-Warner, Father, Sam Elliott Sr., and Stepfather, Robert Warner. Jeff is survived by his three Children Dennis Elliott Sr. (Jessica), Robert Elliott and Nicole Elliott, his four grandchildren Krystal, Allysa, Dennis Jr., and Katie, who he absolutely adored. Jeff is also survived by his five Brothers, Rick (Darcey), Doug (Pam), Brian, & Sam (Wauneta) Elliott, Todd Warner (Elizabeth), special friend and companion Debbie Schenk and many Aunts, Uncles, Nieces and Nephews.
Jeff loved to be outdoors and spend time with family. He will be sadly missed by his family and many friends. Funeral services will be Tuesday, November 15 at 11:00 a.m. at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family. The family wil receive friends at the funeral home on Monday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m.
Rolland W. ’Rolly’ Spaulding
Of Chelsea, Michigan
Age 85, passed away Monday, November 7, 2005 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on June 11, 1920 in Chelsea, Michigan the son of Harold ’Pappy’ and Marie (Whitmer) Spaulding. Rolly graduated from Chelsea High School in 1938. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the United States Army 125th Evacuation Hospital Unit, being discharged as a first sergeant. Returning home from the service he joined his father and became partners in Spaulding Chevrolet, eventually becoming sole owner. After selling the business in 1972, he joined Frank Groh’s Chevrolet in Dexter as general manager until his retirement in 1982, having sold cars to three generations of Washtenaw county residents. Rolly was a Charter member of the Chelsea Rod and Gun Club. He spent 35 years on the Boy Scouts of America Executive Board, serving as council commissioner, council president from 1970 to 1971, and popcorn chairman overseeing fund raising for council activities. Rolly had also received Scouting’s highest award, the Silver Beaver, for his years of service. Rolly was also active in the Chelsea Fair Board, helped establish Vets Park in Chelsea, and served as chairman of Chelsea’s 125th year Anniversary Celebration in 1959. On October 30, 1944 in Paris, Texas, he married Gretchen M. Burg, and she preceded him in death on January 18, 2002. Surviving are six children, Jeffrey H. (Andrea) Spaulding of Bethesda, MD, Lee S. (Art) Tremper of Chelsea, Daniel J. Spaulding of Chelsea, Shawn M. Spaulding of Chelsea, Jon W. Spaulding of Munith, and William M. (Michelle) Spaulding of Chelsea; 14 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews as well. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Virginia McClear, and a granddaughter Abigail Marie Uphaus. Funeral services will be Friday, November 11, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Deacon Timothy Renaud officiating. Burial will take place at Vermont Cemetery, Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Spaulding for Children, Chelsea Rod and Gun Club, Hospice of Michigan, and Boy Scouts of America Great Sauk Trail Council. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Thursday from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m.
Of Chelsea, Michigan
Age 85, passed away Monday, November 7, 2005 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on June 11, 1920 in Chelsea, Michigan the son of Harold ’Pappy’ and Marie (Whitmer) Spaulding. Rolly graduated from Chelsea High School in 1938. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the United States Army 125th Evacuation Hospital Unit, being discharged as a first sergeant. Returning home from the service he joined his father and became partners in Spaulding Chevrolet, eventually becoming sole owner. After selling the business in 1972, he joined Frank Groh’s Chevrolet in Dexter as general manager until his retirement in 1982, having sold cars to three generations of Washtenaw county residents. Rolly was a Charter member of the Chelsea Rod and Gun Club. He spent 35 years on the Boy Scouts of America Executive Board, serving as council commissioner, council president from 1970 to 1971, and popcorn chairman overseeing fund raising for council activities. Rolly had also received Scouting’s highest award, the Silver Beaver, for his years of service. Rolly was also active in the Chelsea Fair Board, helped establish Vets Park in Chelsea, and served as chairman of Chelsea’s 125th year Anniversary Celebration in 1959. On October 30, 1944 in Paris, Texas, he married Gretchen M. Burg, and she preceded him in death on January 18, 2002. Surviving are six children, Jeffrey H. (Andrea) Spaulding of Bethesda, MD, Lee S. (Art) Tremper of Chelsea, Daniel J. Spaulding of Chelsea, Shawn M. Spaulding of Chelsea, Jon W. Spaulding of Munith, and William M. (Michelle) Spaulding of Chelsea; 14 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews as well. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Virginia McClear, and a granddaughter Abigail Marie Uphaus. Funeral services will be Friday, November 11, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Deacon Timothy Renaud officiating. Burial will take place at Vermont Cemetery, Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Spaulding for Children, Chelsea Rod and Gun Club, Hospice of Michigan, and Boy Scouts of America Great Sauk Trail Council. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Thursday from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m.
Barbara G. Oliver
Of Chelsea, MI
Age 87, died Monday, November 7, 2005, at the Chelsea Retirement Center in Chelsea, Michigan. She was born January 29, 1918, in London, Ontario, the daughter of Paul B. and Catherine S. (Fortner) Elson. She attended the University of Western Ontario, earned a teaching certificate and became a school teacher. She married George H. Oliver in London, Ontario, on April 28, 1945. They moved to Detroit, Michigan, in 1953. After her children had grown she served for many years as a nurses aid at St. Mary’s Hospital in Livonia, Michigan. Surviving her are five sons; George Oliver of Whitmore Lake, Michigan, John Oliver of Ann Arbor, Michigan, C. Gary Oliver of Jonesville, Michigan, Wayne Oliver of Chelsea, Michigan and Robert Oliver of Kentwood, Michigan; also three daughters; Janice Nicol of El Camino Village, California, Laura Guibord of Livonia, Michigan and Carol Hasrouni of Fullerton, California; 14 grandchildren; her stepsister Loreen Taylor of London Ontario. Preceding her in death were her husband, George Oliver; her brother, Howard Elson and her sister, Muriel Lewis. She had a wide range of interests including church activities, reading, camping, traveling, taking long walks and keeping up with current events. Above all she will be remembered as a devoted and loving wife, mother and grandmother who espoused strong family values. A memorial service will be held at Newburg United Methodist Church, 36500 Ann Arbor Trail, Livonia, Michigan 48150 at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 14, 2005. Memorial contributions may be made to the church or to Chelsea Retirement Community, Towsley Village 805 W. Middle St., Chelsea, MI. 48118.
Of Chelsea, MI
Age 87, died Monday, November 7, 2005, at the Chelsea Retirement Center in Chelsea, Michigan. She was born January 29, 1918, in London, Ontario, the daughter of Paul B. and Catherine S. (Fortner) Elson. She attended the University of Western Ontario, earned a teaching certificate and became a school teacher. She married George H. Oliver in London, Ontario, on April 28, 1945. They moved to Detroit, Michigan, in 1953. After her children had grown she served for many years as a nurses aid at St. Mary’s Hospital in Livonia, Michigan. Surviving her are five sons; George Oliver of Whitmore Lake, Michigan, John Oliver of Ann Arbor, Michigan, C. Gary Oliver of Jonesville, Michigan, Wayne Oliver of Chelsea, Michigan and Robert Oliver of Kentwood, Michigan; also three daughters; Janice Nicol of El Camino Village, California, Laura Guibord of Livonia, Michigan and Carol Hasrouni of Fullerton, California; 14 grandchildren; her stepsister Loreen Taylor of London Ontario. Preceding her in death were her husband, George Oliver; her brother, Howard Elson and her sister, Muriel Lewis. She had a wide range of interests including church activities, reading, camping, traveling, taking long walks and keeping up with current events. Above all she will be remembered as a devoted and loving wife, mother and grandmother who espoused strong family values. A memorial service will be held at Newburg United Methodist Church, 36500 Ann Arbor Trail, Livonia, Michigan 48150 at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 14, 2005. Memorial contributions may be made to the church or to Chelsea Retirement Community, Towsley Village 805 W. Middle St., Chelsea, MI. 48118.
Leanne K. Chaka
of Chelsea, MI
Age 63, passed away Saturday morning November 5, 2005 at the Arbor Hospice Residence in Ann Arbor. She was born on January 27, 1942 in Flint Michigan the daughter of Wilbur and Elizabeth (Trenamen) Swartz. Leanne had lived in the area for the past 16 years and was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dexter. She was a Business Administrator for Mechanical Dynamistic Incorporated in Ann Arbor Retiring in 1997. On July 24, 1965 she married Ronald James Chaka in Flint Michigan and he survives, also surviving are her parents of Owosso,three children, Michael Chaka of Chelsea, Diane (Dr. John) Watt of Ann Arbor, and Christopher (Michelle) Chaka of Whitmore Lake, two brothers, Robert Swartz of Springfield, IL, and Gary (Diane) Swartz of Owosso. Two sisters, Debra (Bud) Caswell and Laurie (Ed) Quirk all of Owosso. Three grandchildren, Payton and Ryan Watt and Abbigail Chaka. Mass of Christian Burial will take place Wednesday, November 9, 2005 at 11:00 A.M. from St. Joseph Catholic Church, Dexter with Fa. Brendan J. Walsh Presiding. Burial will follow at North Lake Cemetery, Dexter Township. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Stairway to the Future Campaign in Care of St. Joseph Catholic Church. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home Monday, from 6-9 P.M. and Tuesday from 2-5 and 7-9P.M.
of Chelsea, MI
Age 63, passed away Saturday morning November 5, 2005 at the Arbor Hospice Residence in Ann Arbor. She was born on January 27, 1942 in Flint Michigan the daughter of Wilbur and Elizabeth (Trenamen) Swartz. Leanne had lived in the area for the past 16 years and was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dexter. She was a Business Administrator for Mechanical Dynamistic Incorporated in Ann Arbor Retiring in 1997. On July 24, 1965 she married Ronald James Chaka in Flint Michigan and he survives, also surviving are her parents of Owosso,three children, Michael Chaka of Chelsea, Diane (Dr. John) Watt of Ann Arbor, and Christopher (Michelle) Chaka of Whitmore Lake, two brothers, Robert Swartz of Springfield, IL, and Gary (Diane) Swartz of Owosso. Two sisters, Debra (Bud) Caswell and Laurie (Ed) Quirk all of Owosso. Three grandchildren, Payton and Ryan Watt and Abbigail Chaka. Mass of Christian Burial will take place Wednesday, November 9, 2005 at 11:00 A.M. from St. Joseph Catholic Church, Dexter with Fa. Brendan J. Walsh Presiding. Burial will follow at North Lake Cemetery, Dexter Township. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Stairway to the Future Campaign in Care of St. Joseph Catholic Church. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home Monday, from 6-9 P.M. and Tuesday from 2-5 and 7-9P.M.
Gary Erskine
Of Chelsea, MI
Age 65, passed away Thurs. November 3, 2005 surrounded by his loving family. Gary was born October 8, 1940 in Ann Arbor, MI to Clayton Jack Erskine and Geneva Edick Erskine. He retired from Washtenaw County Road Commission (Chelsea Yard). He served in the U.S. Army in the Vietnam War. He was a member of the V.F.W. He married Mary (Anitra) French July 23, 1966, and she survives. Also surviving are three children, David (Marcia) Erskine of Gregory, Shari (Tim) Shaw of Gregory, and John Erskine of Chelsea; his mother, Geneva Erskine of Moran; four grandchildren, Misty, Valley, Brittany, and Melody; one brother, five sisters, many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, one brother, and a nephew. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 5, 2005 at 3:00 p.m. at the Faith in Action Building in Chelsea, with Pastor Sarah Groesser officiating. He will be laid to rest with his father in Brevort Township Cemetery, in Moran, MI. Donations may be made to his family. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.
Of Chelsea, MI
Age 65, passed away Thurs. November 3, 2005 surrounded by his loving family. Gary was born October 8, 1940 in Ann Arbor, MI to Clayton Jack Erskine and Geneva Edick Erskine. He retired from Washtenaw County Road Commission (Chelsea Yard). He served in the U.S. Army in the Vietnam War. He was a member of the V.F.W. He married Mary (Anitra) French July 23, 1966, and she survives. Also surviving are three children, David (Marcia) Erskine of Gregory, Shari (Tim) Shaw of Gregory, and John Erskine of Chelsea; his mother, Geneva Erskine of Moran; four grandchildren, Misty, Valley, Brittany, and Melody; one brother, five sisters, many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, one brother, and a nephew. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 5, 2005 at 3:00 p.m. at the Faith in Action Building in Chelsea, with Pastor Sarah Groesser officiating. He will be laid to rest with his father in Brevort Township Cemetery, in Moran, MI. Donations may be made to his family. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.
Kevin D. Owen
Of Stockbridge, MI
Age 43 , died Wednesday November 2, 2005 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Tawas Michigan. He was born on August 30, 1962 in Jackson, Michigan the son of V. Jack and Millie (Campbell) Owen. Kevin was a graduate of Stockbridge High School in 1981 and became assistant Manager of the Stockbridge Antiques Market two years ago. On May 7, 1983 he Married Kellie Marie Aller and she survives, also surviving are his parents of Stockbridge,two children, Melissa Owen of Florida, and Gary Owen of Tawas, four brothers, Rick (Jill) Owen of Lapeer, Dennis (Mary) Owen of Napoleon, David (June) Owen of Jackson, and Rod Owen of Munith, one sister Melanie Owen of Stockbridge. Also surviving are his Father and Mother in Law Gary (Kathy) Aller of Tawas, Brother and Sister in laws, Gary Jr (Christina) Aller of Tawas, Kim (Greg) Stanley of Tawas, and Peggy (Jeff) Johnson of Adrian, and Kathy (Bryan) Richmond of Tawas. He was preceded in death by one son Mathew D. Owen and his grandparents, Stub (Annibele) Owen, Jim (Mabel) Campbell, Fred Aller and Mildred Antanow. Funeral service will be Tuesday November 8, 2005 at 2:30 P.M. from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home with Rev. Shannon O’Leary and Rev. Larry Schwarck co-officiating. Burial will take place at Oaklawn Cemetery Stockbridge. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Stockbridge Area Ambulance. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Monday from 2-5 and 7-9 P.M. also Tuesday 1:30P.M. until the time of service.
Of Stockbridge, MI
Age 43 , died Wednesday November 2, 2005 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Tawas Michigan. He was born on August 30, 1962 in Jackson, Michigan the son of V. Jack and Millie (Campbell) Owen. Kevin was a graduate of Stockbridge High School in 1981 and became assistant Manager of the Stockbridge Antiques Market two years ago. On May 7, 1983 he Married Kellie Marie Aller and she survives, also surviving are his parents of Stockbridge,two children, Melissa Owen of Florida, and Gary Owen of Tawas, four brothers, Rick (Jill) Owen of Lapeer, Dennis (Mary) Owen of Napoleon, David (June) Owen of Jackson, and Rod Owen of Munith, one sister Melanie Owen of Stockbridge. Also surviving are his Father and Mother in Law Gary (Kathy) Aller of Tawas, Brother and Sister in laws, Gary Jr (Christina) Aller of Tawas, Kim (Greg) Stanley of Tawas, and Peggy (Jeff) Johnson of Adrian, and Kathy (Bryan) Richmond of Tawas. He was preceded in death by one son Mathew D. Owen and his grandparents, Stub (Annibele) Owen, Jim (Mabel) Campbell, Fred Aller and Mildred Antanow. Funeral service will be Tuesday November 8, 2005 at 2:30 P.M. from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home with Rev. Shannon O’Leary and Rev. Larry Schwarck co-officiating. Burial will take place at Oaklawn Cemetery Stockbridge. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Stockbridge Area Ambulance. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Monday from 2-5 and 7-9 P.M. also Tuesday 1:30P.M. until the time of service.
S. Anne Bumpus
Of Gregory, MI
Age 86, passed away Tuesday, November 1, 2005 at the Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born in Gregory, Michigan on February 11, 1919 the daughter of the late Milo and Mable (Caskey) Isham. Anne had lived in the area all her life and was member of Ss. Cornelius & Cyprian Catholic Church and was very active with the Christmas parties and funeral luncheons. She collected antique glass and was a member of the Heisey Glass Club. On July 5, 1941 she married Merwin ’Brownie’ Bumpus, and he preceded her in death on October 23, 1988. She worked for Rockwell International in Chelsea for 30 years. She is survived by five nephews, Sid (Pat) Smith of Sparta, MI, Gary (Annette) Smith of Winter Haven, FL, Charles (Joan) Bumpus of Stockbridge, Robert (Janet) Bumpus of Wausau, WI, and Jerry (Laura) Bumpus of Mason, MI and several great-nieces and nephews. She is also survived by special friends Joe and Vicki Gladstone of Gregory, and Lena Duer of Chelsea. She was preceded in death by one nephew Thomas Bumpus. Memorial Services will be held on Tuesday, November 8, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. from Ss. Cornelius and Cyprian Catholic Church in Bunker Hill with Rev. Fa. Michael A. Petroski presiding. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Ss. Cornelius and Cyprian Catholic Church or Stockbridge Annual Thanksgiving Dinner. Burial will follow at the Plainfield Cemetery in Unadilla Township. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.
Of Gregory, MI
Age 86, passed away Tuesday, November 1, 2005 at the Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born in Gregory, Michigan on February 11, 1919 the daughter of the late Milo and Mable (Caskey) Isham. Anne had lived in the area all her life and was member of Ss. Cornelius & Cyprian Catholic Church and was very active with the Christmas parties and funeral luncheons. She collected antique glass and was a member of the Heisey Glass Club. On July 5, 1941 she married Merwin ’Brownie’ Bumpus, and he preceded her in death on October 23, 1988. She worked for Rockwell International in Chelsea for 30 years. She is survived by five nephews, Sid (Pat) Smith of Sparta, MI, Gary (Annette) Smith of Winter Haven, FL, Charles (Joan) Bumpus of Stockbridge, Robert (Janet) Bumpus of Wausau, WI, and Jerry (Laura) Bumpus of Mason, MI and several great-nieces and nephews. She is also survived by special friends Joe and Vicki Gladstone of Gregory, and Lena Duer of Chelsea. She was preceded in death by one nephew Thomas Bumpus. Memorial Services will be held on Tuesday, November 8, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. from Ss. Cornelius and Cyprian Catholic Church in Bunker Hill with Rev. Fa. Michael A. Petroski presiding. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Ss. Cornelius and Cyprian Catholic Church or Stockbridge Annual Thanksgiving Dinner. Burial will follow at the Plainfield Cemetery in Unadilla Township. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.
Maggie (Margaret) Ruth Kramer
Loving Mother and Devoted wife, Age 78.
Ruth passed away Tuesday, October 18, 2005 with her children and grandchildren at her bedside. She was born July 10, 1927 in Fayetteville, North Carolina the daughter of Joshua and Mary Etta (Ingram) White. Ruth had lived in the Munith area since 1967. Ruth enjoyed crocheting afghans for her family and friends, playing yahtzee, solving word search puzzles and reading western novels. She is survived by her four children Elaine (Wayne) Thelen of Mason, Dale (Lori) Kramer of Pleasant Lake, Mike (Wendy) Kramer of Pleasant Lake, IN, Steve (Charlene) Kramer of Tipton, 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Also surviving Ruth are three sisters: Martha Wheeler, Helen Marie (Ray) Hinson, Lula (B.T.) Brooks, and three brothers: Billy (Sheila) White, Albert White, and Herman (Helen) White. She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Jerome F. Kramer, her parents and two sisters: Shirley Wrench and Lena King. A combined Memorial Service for Ruth and Jerry will be held on Friday, October 28, 2005, 1:00 p.m. at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge, MI with Rev. David Saglimbene officiating. Interment will be at the Munith Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the
American Legion.
Loving Mother and Devoted wife, Age 78.
Ruth passed away Tuesday, October 18, 2005 with her children and grandchildren at her bedside. She was born July 10, 1927 in Fayetteville, North Carolina the daughter of Joshua and Mary Etta (Ingram) White. Ruth had lived in the Munith area since 1967. Ruth enjoyed crocheting afghans for her family and friends, playing yahtzee, solving word search puzzles and reading western novels. She is survived by her four children Elaine (Wayne) Thelen of Mason, Dale (Lori) Kramer of Pleasant Lake, Mike (Wendy) Kramer of Pleasant Lake, IN, Steve (Charlene) Kramer of Tipton, 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Also surviving Ruth are three sisters: Martha Wheeler, Helen Marie (Ray) Hinson, Lula (B.T.) Brooks, and three brothers: Billy (Sheila) White, Albert White, and Herman (Helen) White. She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Jerome F. Kramer, her parents and two sisters: Shirley Wrench and Lena King. A combined Memorial Service for Ruth and Jerry will be held on Friday, October 28, 2005, 1:00 p.m. at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge, MI with Rev. David Saglimbene officiating. Interment will be at the Munith Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the
American Legion.
Theodore E. Faist, Jr. ’Ted’
Age 79 passed away Sunday, October 23, 2005 at the Chelsea Retirement Community. He was born on May 1, 1926 in Jackson, MI to the late Theodore E. Faist, Sr. and Agnes (Miller) Faist. The family moved from Jackson to Grass Lake when Ted was eleven. He graduated from Grass Lake High School in 1944 and enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Force Corp to serve in World War II. Working on cars was always his favorite pastime and later became his life’s work. Upon moving to Chelsea he worked for Spaulding Chevrolet/ Harper Pontiac, and Daniels Buick and Olds. Warren (Sporty) Daniels was his mentor. Ted and Graham Sprague built the current Chevrolet Buick dealership in 1968. Upon Graham Sprague’s death, Bill Morrow became his partner in 1982. Ted’s son-in-law, David Diesing became his partner in 2000 and is the current owner of the Faist-Diesing Chevrolet Buick Dealership. Ted served as president of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ during the building of the church at its present site and was also a member of Elks Lodge #325 of Ann Arbor. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Marjorie (Dunlap) Faist; two daughters, Jane (David) Diesing of Chelsea and Lynn E. Faist of Chelsea; three grandchildren, Jeffrey (Rebecca) Diesing of Chelsea, James (Mitzi Janukaitis) Diesing of Chelsea, and Jennifer Diesing of Chelsea; two great-granddaughters on the way; one brother-in-law, Duane Sawdy of Grass Lake. He was also preceded in death by his sister-in-law Genevieve Sawdy. Funeral services will be Wednesday, October 26, 2005 from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Karen Schulte officiating. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 N. Main St., Tuesday from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 and on Wednesday from noon until the time of service. Expressions of sympathy can be made to St. Paul United Church of Christ, Chelsea Community Hospital, the Chelsea Retirement Center Kresge 2 Skilled Nursing Unit, or the Chelsea District Library Capital Campaign.
Age 79 passed away Sunday, October 23, 2005 at the Chelsea Retirement Community. He was born on May 1, 1926 in Jackson, MI to the late Theodore E. Faist, Sr. and Agnes (Miller) Faist. The family moved from Jackson to Grass Lake when Ted was eleven. He graduated from Grass Lake High School in 1944 and enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Force Corp to serve in World War II. Working on cars was always his favorite pastime and later became his life’s work. Upon moving to Chelsea he worked for Spaulding Chevrolet/ Harper Pontiac, and Daniels Buick and Olds. Warren (Sporty) Daniels was his mentor. Ted and Graham Sprague built the current Chevrolet Buick dealership in 1968. Upon Graham Sprague’s death, Bill Morrow became his partner in 1982. Ted’s son-in-law, David Diesing became his partner in 2000 and is the current owner of the Faist-Diesing Chevrolet Buick Dealership. Ted served as president of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ during the building of the church at its present site and was also a member of Elks Lodge #325 of Ann Arbor. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Marjorie (Dunlap) Faist; two daughters, Jane (David) Diesing of Chelsea and Lynn E. Faist of Chelsea; three grandchildren, Jeffrey (Rebecca) Diesing of Chelsea, James (Mitzi Janukaitis) Diesing of Chelsea, and Jennifer Diesing of Chelsea; two great-granddaughters on the way; one brother-in-law, Duane Sawdy of Grass Lake. He was also preceded in death by his sister-in-law Genevieve Sawdy. Funeral services will be Wednesday, October 26, 2005 from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Karen Schulte officiating. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 N. Main St., Tuesday from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 and on Wednesday from noon until the time of service. Expressions of sympathy can be made to St. Paul United Church of Christ, Chelsea Community Hospital, the Chelsea Retirement Center Kresge 2 Skilled Nursing Unit, or the Chelsea District Library Capital Campaign.
Ruby M. Selleck
Of Chelsea
Age 97, passed away Wednesday, October 12, 2005 at the Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born October 26, 1907 the daughter of August and Maria (Johnson) Carlson in Paxton, Illinois. She is survived by a son, Rev. Richard (Eloise) Selleck of Muskegon. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd, her daughter, Joan Yoader, and a daughter-in-law, Marion L. Dadd. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, October 26, 2005 at 10:30 a.m. at the Chelsea Retirement Community, with the Rev. Beth Foster officiating. Interment will take place at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Lansing. Memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea Retirement Community. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.
Of Chelsea
Age 97, passed away Wednesday, October 12, 2005 at the Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born October 26, 1907 the daughter of August and Maria (Johnson) Carlson in Paxton, Illinois. She is survived by a son, Rev. Richard (Eloise) Selleck of Muskegon. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd, her daughter, Joan Yoader, and a daughter-in-law, Marion L. Dadd. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, October 26, 2005 at 10:30 a.m. at the Chelsea Retirement Community, with the Rev. Beth Foster officiating. Interment will take place at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Lansing. Memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea Retirement Community. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.
Joseph A. Steele Jr.
of Chelsea, Mi.
Age 58, passed away Sunday morning surrounded by his loving family at his home. He was born on January 22, 1947 in Chelsea to the son of the Late Joseph Sr. and Dorothy (Forner) Steele. Joe had worked for the postal service for nearly 35 years retiring in 2002. A veteran serving in the United States Navy from Jan 3,1967 to September 5, 1972. He was a member of St. John’s United Church of Christ and former council member as well. On October 6, 1967 he married Ruth Ann Trinkle and she survives.. He enjoyed the out of doors and especially liked Hunting and Fishing with his two boys Jeffrey (Jessica) Steele of Roy Utah, and James (Terri Mills) Steel of Grass Lake and 1 grand son Cameron. Four brothers, Richard (Margaret) Steele of Chelsea, Paul (Mary) Steele of Chelsea, Don (Hazel) Steele of Kentwood, MI, Tim (Colleen) Steele of Martin, MI. Two sisters, Mimi (Jim) Doolittle of Kalamazoo, and Keri (Tim) Johnson of Portage, MI. 6 nephews and Three nieces many cousins. He was also preceded in death by infant twin brothers, Kenneth and William Steele. A memorial services will be Thursday October 20, 2005 at 11:00 A.M. from the St. John’s United Church of Christ With Pastor Nancy Doty officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Freedom township. Expressions of sympathy can be made to St. John’s United Church of Christ or Hospice of Michigan. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 N. Main Street, Wednesday from 3-5 and 7-9 P.M.
of Chelsea, Mi.
Age 58, passed away Sunday morning surrounded by his loving family at his home. He was born on January 22, 1947 in Chelsea to the son of the Late Joseph Sr. and Dorothy (Forner) Steele. Joe had worked for the postal service for nearly 35 years retiring in 2002. A veteran serving in the United States Navy from Jan 3,1967 to September 5, 1972. He was a member of St. John’s United Church of Christ and former council member as well. On October 6, 1967 he married Ruth Ann Trinkle and she survives.. He enjoyed the out of doors and especially liked Hunting and Fishing with his two boys Jeffrey (Jessica) Steele of Roy Utah, and James (Terri Mills) Steel of Grass Lake and 1 grand son Cameron. Four brothers, Richard (Margaret) Steele of Chelsea, Paul (Mary) Steele of Chelsea, Don (Hazel) Steele of Kentwood, MI, Tim (Colleen) Steele of Martin, MI. Two sisters, Mimi (Jim) Doolittle of Kalamazoo, and Keri (Tim) Johnson of Portage, MI. 6 nephews and Three nieces many cousins. He was also preceded in death by infant twin brothers, Kenneth and William Steele. A memorial services will be Thursday October 20, 2005 at 11:00 A.M. from the St. John’s United Church of Christ With Pastor Nancy Doty officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Freedom township. Expressions of sympathy can be made to St. John’s United Church of Christ or Hospice of Michigan. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 N. Main Street, Wednesday from 3-5 and 7-9 P.M.
Catherine R. Dixon
Of Apache Junction, AZ
Formerly of Munith, MI
Age 87, passed away Thursday, October 13, 2005 at Highland Home for the Aged in Jackson. She was born December 5, 1917 in Bad Axe, MI the daughter of Carl and Bessie (Mayer) Adams. Catherine enjoyed doing crafts, sewing, knitting and crocheting. On September 3, 1936 she married Vaughn Dixon, Sr. and he survives. She is also survived by her daughter, Margaret (Glenn) Hayes of Apache Junction, AZ; and two sons, Vaughn Jr. (Delma) Dixon of Jackson and Daniel (Valeric) Dixon of Gregory; 11 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandson, also a sister-in-law Evelyn Robertson. She was preceded in death by two sisters; Maxine Stoddard and Betty Ulanowicz; 2 brothers; Robert and Edward Adams; 1 grandson, Sidney Dixon; and a nephew, Raymond Stoddard. Funeral services will be held at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home on Wednesday October 19, 2005 at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Robert Castle officiating. Burial will follow at the Munith Cemetery in Munith, MI. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 5-7 p.m. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Hospice of Jackson.
Of Apache Junction, AZ
Formerly of Munith, MI
Age 87, passed away Thursday, October 13, 2005 at Highland Home for the Aged in Jackson. She was born December 5, 1917 in Bad Axe, MI the daughter of Carl and Bessie (Mayer) Adams. Catherine enjoyed doing crafts, sewing, knitting and crocheting. On September 3, 1936 she married Vaughn Dixon, Sr. and he survives. She is also survived by her daughter, Margaret (Glenn) Hayes of Apache Junction, AZ; and two sons, Vaughn Jr. (Delma) Dixon of Jackson and Daniel (Valeric) Dixon of Gregory; 11 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandson, also a sister-in-law Evelyn Robertson. She was preceded in death by two sisters; Maxine Stoddard and Betty Ulanowicz; 2 brothers; Robert and Edward Adams; 1 grandson, Sidney Dixon; and a nephew, Raymond Stoddard. Funeral services will be held at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home on Wednesday October 19, 2005 at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Robert Castle officiating. Burial will follow at the Munith Cemetery in Munith, MI. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 5-7 p.m. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Hospice of Jackson.
Laura L. Grim
of Chelsea
Age 43, died at her home on Friday, October 7. She was born the daughter of Peter J. and Joyce (Davis) Husak on March 27, 1962. On July 24, 1981 she married Kevin D. Grim and he survives. Laura enjoyed the outdoors, she loved anything that bloomed and liked to watch the birds and deer from her window. She loved her dogs Lucky, Bear and Cheyenne. Most of all she loved her family. Laura is also survived by her three children Jason M. Grim, Jessica L. Grim and Nicholas R. Grim all of Chelsea; and one grandchild Connor Grim. Also surviving are her brothers Peter Husak of Whitmore Lake, David (Tammy) Husak of Dexter; sister-in-law Tina (Geary) Baroni, brother-in-laws Gary (Beth) Grim and Dick (Jill) Grim. She is also survived by mother and father-in-law Gary (Sharon) Grim and many nieces and nephews. Besides her parents she was also preceded in death by her grandmother Christine Davis. Funeral services will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 11 at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Beth Foster officiating. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Huntington Corea Disease Research, Michigan Chapter. The Family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday, October 9, from 7-9 p.m. and again on Monday from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m.
of Chelsea
Age 43, died at her home on Friday, October 7. She was born the daughter of Peter J. and Joyce (Davis) Husak on March 27, 1962. On July 24, 1981 she married Kevin D. Grim and he survives. Laura enjoyed the outdoors, she loved anything that bloomed and liked to watch the birds and deer from her window. She loved her dogs Lucky, Bear and Cheyenne. Most of all she loved her family. Laura is also survived by her three children Jason M. Grim, Jessica L. Grim and Nicholas R. Grim all of Chelsea; and one grandchild Connor Grim. Also surviving are her brothers Peter Husak of Whitmore Lake, David (Tammy) Husak of Dexter; sister-in-law Tina (Geary) Baroni, brother-in-laws Gary (Beth) Grim and Dick (Jill) Grim. She is also survived by mother and father-in-law Gary (Sharon) Grim and many nieces and nephews. Besides her parents she was also preceded in death by her grandmother Christine Davis. Funeral services will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Tuesday, October 11 at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Beth Foster officiating. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Huntington Corea Disease Research, Michigan Chapter. The Family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday, October 9, from 7-9 p.m. and again on Monday from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m.
Jeffrey Richard French
of Chelsea
Jeffrey died October 6, 2005 at his home from complications of a work related injury that happened several years ago. Jeff was born on April 1, 1957 in Ann Arbor. When he was a year old his family moved to Dexter and then 1.5 years later moved to Brighton where he grew up and graduated from Brighton High School. Jeff loved sports and excelled in track and football. In 1979, he moved to Chelsea with his parents. He worked for Chelsea Lumber Co. and then Fingerle Lumber in Ann Arbor. He enjoyed working outdoors and interacting with the customers. After a serious injury at work and subsequent surgeries he retired on disability. Jeff loved nature, animals and the outdoors. He especially enjoyed fishing and hunting with his Dad. He also enjoyed his dog, Lady, and his parent’s three small dogs. Jeffrey also enjoyed playing the guitar from the time he was 10 years old and took lessons until his teacher stated ’I have taught you all I know’. Jeff is survived by the children he adored, daughter Stefanie (Joe Brenner) French, and son, Ryan (Jessica) French, granddaughter Hailey and a grandson due in December. He is also survived by his parents Richard and Vivian French, his brother James, and nephew, Christopher, all of Chelsea as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 11, 2005 at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home with Deacon David Rosenberg officiating. Visitation will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea Monday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. expressions of sympathy may be made to the World Wildlife Federation and the Huron Valley Humane Society.
of Chelsea
Jeffrey died October 6, 2005 at his home from complications of a work related injury that happened several years ago. Jeff was born on April 1, 1957 in Ann Arbor. When he was a year old his family moved to Dexter and then 1.5 years later moved to Brighton where he grew up and graduated from Brighton High School. Jeff loved sports and excelled in track and football. In 1979, he moved to Chelsea with his parents. He worked for Chelsea Lumber Co. and then Fingerle Lumber in Ann Arbor. He enjoyed working outdoors and interacting with the customers. After a serious injury at work and subsequent surgeries he retired on disability. Jeff loved nature, animals and the outdoors. He especially enjoyed fishing and hunting with his Dad. He also enjoyed his dog, Lady, and his parent’s three small dogs. Jeffrey also enjoyed playing the guitar from the time he was 10 years old and took lessons until his teacher stated ’I have taught you all I know’. Jeff is survived by the children he adored, daughter Stefanie (Joe Brenner) French, and son, Ryan (Jessica) French, granddaughter Hailey and a grandson due in December. He is also survived by his parents Richard and Vivian French, his brother James, and nephew, Christopher, all of Chelsea as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 11, 2005 at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home with Deacon David Rosenberg officiating. Visitation will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea Monday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. expressions of sympathy may be made to the World Wildlife Federation and the Huron Valley Humane Society.
Jack M. Rose
of Stockbridge, MI
Age 72 died at the Chelsea Community Hospital on October 4. He was born in Grand Ledge, Michigan the son of Clifford M. and Minnie L. (Pillars) Rose on March 2, 1933. On May 31, 1957 he married Ruth A. Gaines in Angola, Indiana and she survives. Also surviving are his children Jackie (Rob) Wood of Virginia, and James (Kathryn) Rose of Saline. He is also survived by Five grandchildren; Jessica Wood, Dustin Wood, Julie Rose, Amanda Rose, Tyler Rose and one brother; Clifford J. (Rose) Rose of Houghton Lake. He was preceded in death by a brother Gene Rose and his two sisters Marilyn and Mildred. A memorial service will be held Friday, 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church with the Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Stockbridge Ambulance, Hospice Memorial Fund (care of HCR Manor Care Foundation 333 N. Summit St. Toledo, OH 43699-0086) or the Chelsea Community Hospital. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge. If you would like to send the family your condolences you may send then to mike@mitchellfuneral.com.
of Stockbridge, MI
Age 72 died at the Chelsea Community Hospital on October 4. He was born in Grand Ledge, Michigan the son of Clifford M. and Minnie L. (Pillars) Rose on March 2, 1933. On May 31, 1957 he married Ruth A. Gaines in Angola, Indiana and she survives. Also surviving are his children Jackie (Rob) Wood of Virginia, and James (Kathryn) Rose of Saline. He is also survived by Five grandchildren; Jessica Wood, Dustin Wood, Julie Rose, Amanda Rose, Tyler Rose and one brother; Clifford J. (Rose) Rose of Houghton Lake. He was preceded in death by a brother Gene Rose and his two sisters Marilyn and Mildred. A memorial service will be held Friday, 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church with the Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Stockbridge Ambulance, Hospice Memorial Fund (care of HCR Manor Care Foundation 333 N. Summit St. Toledo, OH 43699-0086) or the Chelsea Community Hospital. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge. If you would like to send the family your condolences you may send then to mike@mitchellfuneral.com.
William ’Bill’ R. Ramsey
Of Ann Arbor, Mi.
Age 63, went to be with the Lord on Sunday October 2, 2005. He was born on May 14, 1942 in Clay West Virginia, the son of George and Ona (Brady) Ramsey. Bill was a member of Dexter Gospel Church and loved Gardening, Fishing, Mushroom Hunting, his cabin up north, but most of all he loved his family and they came first. He owned and operated RTD Manufacturing in Jackson and held title of president for the past 21 years. On July 30, 1965 he married Donna K. Pustay and she survives, also surviving are six children, Billy Ramsey of Ann Arbor, Bryant (Sarah) Ramsey of Grass lake, Jackie (David) Smith of Ann Arbor, Jodi (Rob) Bergman of Chelsea, Angela (Steve) Pallister of Ann Arbor, and Kari (Gary) Kircher of Grass lake. 12 grandchildren Savannah, Sierra, Joey, Danielle, Austin, Halee, Amy, Nathan, Bradlee, Gary Dean, Nolan, and Kristen. Brothers and sisters, Corrine Hamrick of WV, Norvall (Frieda) Ramsey of Brightom, Tiny Macklin of Brighton, Lee (David) Minix of Stockbridge, Del (Brenda) Ramsey of Brighton, Dorm Hime and Linda (Jeff) Hime all of Howell, and Marlene (Dennis) Baldwin of FL. Father-in-law, Joseph (Loraine) Pustay of Dexter, Sister in Laws, Judy (Larry) Risner of Dexter, and Sandra (Dennis) Denkhaus of Brighton, many nieces and nephews and cousins. He was also preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, Delford, Marvin, Larry, and Wilburn Ramsey, his mother-in-law, Bonnie L. Pustay and brother-in-laws, Doug and Richard Pustay. Funeral services will be Thursday October 6, 2005 at 1:00 P.M. from the Dexter Gospel Church with Pastor John M. O’Dell officiating. Burial will follow at Bethlehem cemetery, Ann Arbor. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, Tuesday from 6-9 P.M., Wednesday from 2-5 and 7-9 P.M. and also Thursday at Church from Noon Until the time of service.
Of Ann Arbor, Mi.
Age 63, went to be with the Lord on Sunday October 2, 2005. He was born on May 14, 1942 in Clay West Virginia, the son of George and Ona (Brady) Ramsey. Bill was a member of Dexter Gospel Church and loved Gardening, Fishing, Mushroom Hunting, his cabin up north, but most of all he loved his family and they came first. He owned and operated RTD Manufacturing in Jackson and held title of president for the past 21 years. On July 30, 1965 he married Donna K. Pustay and she survives, also surviving are six children, Billy Ramsey of Ann Arbor, Bryant (Sarah) Ramsey of Grass lake, Jackie (David) Smith of Ann Arbor, Jodi (Rob) Bergman of Chelsea, Angela (Steve) Pallister of Ann Arbor, and Kari (Gary) Kircher of Grass lake. 12 grandchildren Savannah, Sierra, Joey, Danielle, Austin, Halee, Amy, Nathan, Bradlee, Gary Dean, Nolan, and Kristen. Brothers and sisters, Corrine Hamrick of WV, Norvall (Frieda) Ramsey of Brightom, Tiny Macklin of Brighton, Lee (David) Minix of Stockbridge, Del (Brenda) Ramsey of Brighton, Dorm Hime and Linda (Jeff) Hime all of Howell, and Marlene (Dennis) Baldwin of FL. Father-in-law, Joseph (Loraine) Pustay of Dexter, Sister in Laws, Judy (Larry) Risner of Dexter, and Sandra (Dennis) Denkhaus of Brighton, many nieces and nephews and cousins. He was also preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, Delford, Marvin, Larry, and Wilburn Ramsey, his mother-in-law, Bonnie L. Pustay and brother-in-laws, Doug and Richard Pustay. Funeral services will be Thursday October 6, 2005 at 1:00 P.M. from the Dexter Gospel Church with Pastor John M. O’Dell officiating. Burial will follow at Bethlehem cemetery, Ann Arbor. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, Tuesday from 6-9 P.M., Wednesday from 2-5 and 7-9 P.M. and also Thursday at Church from Noon Until the time of service.
Larry K. Howard
Of Stockbridge, MI.
Age 67, passed away Saturday September 24, 2005 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital. He was born on October 3, 1937 in Bradley, Kentucky the son of Wick and Elsie (Minix) Howard. Larry had lived in the area since 1941 and was a charter member of the Family Tabernacle of Gregory. He graduated from Stockbridge High School in 1956. He enjoyed playing music, gardening and was locally known as the Ground Mole to all his CB buddies. On November 20, 1965 he married Barbara Ousley in Stockbridge and she survives, also surviving are his 2 children, Pastor Jeff (Tracey) Howard and Scott (Amy) Howard all of Stockbridge. Brothers and sisters, Rolla Fetterly of Salyersville, Madge (Walter) Ottoman of Chelsea, Calvin (Ruby) Howard of Eaton Rapids, Mareda O’Brien of Lansing, Bethelene Nawrock of Stockbridge, Mary (James) Fletcher of Stockbridge, Linda (JR) Clark of Stockbridge and Judy (Dale) Leach of Hanover-Horton. Three grandchildren also survive, Lucas, Kristen and Aidan Howard. He was preceded in death by his sister Annette Siegler, a brother Clyde Howard and a nephew Kevin Clark. Funeral services will be Tuesday September 27, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge with Pastor Doug Prater officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Monday from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m. Burial will take place at Pleasant Grove Cemetery Munith. Contributions may be made to The Family Tabernacle of Gregory.
Of Stockbridge, MI.
Age 67, passed away Saturday September 24, 2005 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital. He was born on October 3, 1937 in Bradley, Kentucky the son of Wick and Elsie (Minix) Howard. Larry had lived in the area since 1941 and was a charter member of the Family Tabernacle of Gregory. He graduated from Stockbridge High School in 1956. He enjoyed playing music, gardening and was locally known as the Ground Mole to all his CB buddies. On November 20, 1965 he married Barbara Ousley in Stockbridge and she survives, also surviving are his 2 children, Pastor Jeff (Tracey) Howard and Scott (Amy) Howard all of Stockbridge. Brothers and sisters, Rolla Fetterly of Salyersville, Madge (Walter) Ottoman of Chelsea, Calvin (Ruby) Howard of Eaton Rapids, Mareda O’Brien of Lansing, Bethelene Nawrock of Stockbridge, Mary (James) Fletcher of Stockbridge, Linda (JR) Clark of Stockbridge and Judy (Dale) Leach of Hanover-Horton. Three grandchildren also survive, Lucas, Kristen and Aidan Howard. He was preceded in death by his sister Annette Siegler, a brother Clyde Howard and a nephew Kevin Clark. Funeral services will be Tuesday September 27, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge with Pastor Doug Prater officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Monday from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m. Burial will take place at Pleasant Grove Cemetery Munith. Contributions may be made to The Family Tabernacle of Gregory.
Donald W. Williams
Donald W. Williams, 66, of Ann Arbor died Thursday September 22 at Chelsea Retirement Center, Chelsea, Michigan, following a seven-month battle with cancer. He is survived by his father, Joel Williams, 97, of Marietta, Georgia. He was preceded in death by his brother, Joel Williams, Jr., and by his mother, Opal.
Dr. Williams received his bachelor ’s degree (1961) and master ’s degree (1962) in music from Peabody College in Nashville, Tennessee, where he studied with Scott Withrow. In 1979 he received the Doctor of Musical Arts in Organ Performance from the University of Michigan, where he studied with Dr. Marilyn Mason. At Michigan, he was given the prestigious Palmer Christian Award by the Organ Department of the School of Music in recognition of his outstanding accomplishments in teaching, performing, and choral conducting. Dr. Williams was a dedicated and lifelong church musician. He was Organist-Choirmaster at Zion Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor from 1963 until 1995, when he became Organist-Choirmaster at Chelsea First United Methodist Church, a position he held until his death. He was founder and conductor of the American Chorale of Sacred Music, a group formed in 1995 to sing and promote sacred repertoire.
An active recitalist, Dr. Williams performed at churches and cathedrals in this country and abroad, including the National Cathedral and the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., St. Thomas Episcopal Church in New York City, St. Joseph ’s Oratory in Montreal, and various European venues. From 1981 to 1985 he performed as a member of Principal VI, a group of professional organists from the greater Ann Arbor area. In 1986, he was given the honor of performing the world premiere of composer Vincent Persichetti ’s last composition, Give Peace, O God.
Dr. Williams was a mentor to many students and considered teaching to be a highly important part of his professional life. He was a member of the Organ Faculty of the National Music Camp in Interlochen, Michigan, from 1966 to 1970. He was Adjunct Lecturer in Organ at the University of Michigan in the early 1970s. His principal college-level teaching association, over many years, was with Concordia University in Ann Arbor, where he taught organ performance and church music (1976 to 1995, 1999 until his death). He was co-founder of the Ann Arbor Youth Chorale, which he directed with Richard Ingram and Ruth Datz from 1987 to 2001.
Dr. Williams ’ many professional affiliations included various positions held in the Ann Arbor chapter of the American Guild of Organists. He was Chair of the Alumni Board of the School of Music, University of Michigan, from 1975 to 1978. He was Chair of Worship Standards and Repertoire of the American Choral Directors ’ Association (1995-2001), and a member of the Board of the Boy Choir of Ann Arbor from 2000 until his death. He was a life member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia.
Dr. Williams touched many lives, both with his music and with his outgoing and generous personality. His stated personal and professional goal was ’to grow spiritually and musically and always to strive for excellence. ’ He was a vital member of the music community in Ann Arbor and Chelsea, as well as enjoying national standing as an organist and choral conductor. Donald will be greatly missed by his many friends and colleagues and by the hundreds of students and young people he taught.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home of Chelsea. Visitation will be at Chelsea First United Methodist Church (128 Park Street, Chelsea) on Sunday, September 24, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor (1432 Washtenaw Avenue) on Monday, September 26, at 1:30 p.m., preceded by organ preludes. Officiating clergy for the service are Reverend Joy Barrett, Reverend Richard Dake, Reverend Fred Harms, Reverend Doctor Anne-Marie Kidder, Reverend Barbara Lewis-Lakin, and Reverend Doctor Eugene Nissen. Those wishing to participate in the service as part of the choir are requested to arrive by 12:30 p.m. for rehearsal. Interment will be in Anniston, Alabama.
Memorial contributions can be made to Chelsea First United Methodist Church, the Organ Department of Concordia University, and the Organ Department of the School of Music, University of Michigan. On Dr. Williams’ behalf, his friends wish to acknowledge the attentive and sensitive care he received from the staff and health aides of Chelsea Retirement Center and from the staff of Hospice of Michigan.
Donald W. Williams, 66, of Ann Arbor died Thursday September 22 at Chelsea Retirement Center, Chelsea, Michigan, following a seven-month battle with cancer. He is survived by his father, Joel Williams, 97, of Marietta, Georgia. He was preceded in death by his brother, Joel Williams, Jr., and by his mother, Opal.
Dr. Williams received his bachelor ’s degree (1961) and master ’s degree (1962) in music from Peabody College in Nashville, Tennessee, where he studied with Scott Withrow. In 1979 he received the Doctor of Musical Arts in Organ Performance from the University of Michigan, where he studied with Dr. Marilyn Mason. At Michigan, he was given the prestigious Palmer Christian Award by the Organ Department of the School of Music in recognition of his outstanding accomplishments in teaching, performing, and choral conducting. Dr. Williams was a dedicated and lifelong church musician. He was Organist-Choirmaster at Zion Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor from 1963 until 1995, when he became Organist-Choirmaster at Chelsea First United Methodist Church, a position he held until his death. He was founder and conductor of the American Chorale of Sacred Music, a group formed in 1995 to sing and promote sacred repertoire.
An active recitalist, Dr. Williams performed at churches and cathedrals in this country and abroad, including the National Cathedral and the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., St. Thomas Episcopal Church in New York City, St. Joseph ’s Oratory in Montreal, and various European venues. From 1981 to 1985 he performed as a member of Principal VI, a group of professional organists from the greater Ann Arbor area. In 1986, he was given the honor of performing the world premiere of composer Vincent Persichetti ’s last composition, Give Peace, O God.
Dr. Williams was a mentor to many students and considered teaching to be a highly important part of his professional life. He was a member of the Organ Faculty of the National Music Camp in Interlochen, Michigan, from 1966 to 1970. He was Adjunct Lecturer in Organ at the University of Michigan in the early 1970s. His principal college-level teaching association, over many years, was with Concordia University in Ann Arbor, where he taught organ performance and church music (1976 to 1995, 1999 until his death). He was co-founder of the Ann Arbor Youth Chorale, which he directed with Richard Ingram and Ruth Datz from 1987 to 2001.
Dr. Williams ’ many professional affiliations included various positions held in the Ann Arbor chapter of the American Guild of Organists. He was Chair of the Alumni Board of the School of Music, University of Michigan, from 1975 to 1978. He was Chair of Worship Standards and Repertoire of the American Choral Directors ’ Association (1995-2001), and a member of the Board of the Boy Choir of Ann Arbor from 2000 until his death. He was a life member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia.
Dr. Williams touched many lives, both with his music and with his outgoing and generous personality. His stated personal and professional goal was ’to grow spiritually and musically and always to strive for excellence. ’ He was a vital member of the music community in Ann Arbor and Chelsea, as well as enjoying national standing as an organist and choral conductor. Donald will be greatly missed by his many friends and colleagues and by the hundreds of students and young people he taught.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home of Chelsea. Visitation will be at Chelsea First United Methodist Church (128 Park Street, Chelsea) on Sunday, September 24, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor (1432 Washtenaw Avenue) on Monday, September 26, at 1:30 p.m., preceded by organ preludes. Officiating clergy for the service are Reverend Joy Barrett, Reverend Richard Dake, Reverend Fred Harms, Reverend Doctor Anne-Marie Kidder, Reverend Barbara Lewis-Lakin, and Reverend Doctor Eugene Nissen. Those wishing to participate in the service as part of the choir are requested to arrive by 12:30 p.m. for rehearsal. Interment will be in Anniston, Alabama.
Memorial contributions can be made to Chelsea First United Methodist Church, the Organ Department of Concordia University, and the Organ Department of the School of Music, University of Michigan. On Dr. Williams’ behalf, his friends wish to acknowledge the attentive and sensitive care he received from the staff and health aides of Chelsea Retirement Center and from the staff of Hospice of Michigan.
Archie Jr. Coleman
Of Stockbridge
Age 78 passed away at Ingham Regional Medical Facility on September 5. He was born the son of William and Mary (Haskell) Coleman on September 20, 1926 in White Oak Township. Archie loved the outdoors fishing, hunting, hunting for mushrooms and mowing lawns. In 1980 he retired from the Dana Corporation where he worked for many years. Surviving are his two children Archie G. Coleman of Stockbridge, Teresa R. Coleman of Stockbridge; special friend Shirley A. Corwin of Webberville; nephew Delbert Corwin of Stockbridge; many grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his sister Edith Shirley of Blissfield and his brother William Coleman of Adrian. Archie was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters; Fern Wright, Bertha Hodge, Gladys Corwin; and one brother John Coleman. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 8, 11:00 a.m. at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home. Expressions of sympathy maybe made to the Coleman family. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m.
Of Stockbridge
Age 78 passed away at Ingham Regional Medical Facility on September 5. He was born the son of William and Mary (Haskell) Coleman on September 20, 1926 in White Oak Township. Archie loved the outdoors fishing, hunting, hunting for mushrooms and mowing lawns. In 1980 he retired from the Dana Corporation where he worked for many years. Surviving are his two children Archie G. Coleman of Stockbridge, Teresa R. Coleman of Stockbridge; special friend Shirley A. Corwin of Webberville; nephew Delbert Corwin of Stockbridge; many grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his sister Edith Shirley of Blissfield and his brother William Coleman of Adrian. Archie was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters; Fern Wright, Bertha Hodge, Gladys Corwin; and one brother John Coleman. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, August 8, 11:00 a.m. at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home. Expressions of sympathy maybe made to the Coleman family. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m.