Estill Lee Shepherd
of Munith, MI

Age 76, passed away at home surrounded by his family on February 25, 2009. He was born the son of Estil and Stella (Arnett) on July 11, 1932 in Greenwich, Ohio. On June 24, 1955 he married Hessie Craft and she survives after 53 years of marriage. Estill loved the outdoors where he enjoyed hunting, fishing and finding Morel mushrooms. He also enjoyed cooking, gardening and retirement after 34 years of service to Fab Alloy. He was a Veteran of the Korean War and a member of the American Legion in Warsaw, IN. Most of all he loved his family. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children, Kim (Barb) Shepherd of Rives Junction, Rita Jewell of Jackson, as well as his grandchildren, Aaron (Angie) Shepherd, Cortney Shepherd, Jessica Jewell, Billy Jewell, and Adam Jewell. Also surviving are his great-grandchildren, Benjamin and Silas Shepherd; his siblings, Don (Bonnie) Shepherd, Ruth (Leon) Younce, Ronnie (Wanda) Shepherd, Eddie Wayne (Barbara) Shepherd. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Eva Jean Ford and Barbara Snell, his son-in-law, Billy Jewell and great-grand daughter Victoria Brower. Funeral services will be held Monday from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Robert Castle officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Munith. The family will recieve friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 2-5 and 6-8 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Jeruel Baptist Church.

Maxx Eugene Rencehausen
of Grass Lake, MI

Age 20, passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2009 at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor. He was born on December 18, 1988 in Tucson, Arizona. He is survived by his parents, Elaine and Ricky Adams of Grass Lake; his grandparents, Wanda (Rick) Adams of Chelsea and Mary Pierce of Arizona; and his great-grandparents, Bob (Jo) Duckham of Tekonsha. He is also survived by his siblings, Pharrah (Will) Rencehausen of Jackson, Cainen Ochoa, Serena Adams, Hunter Adams, and Kyahna Adams, all of Chelsea; one nephew, Brandt DuBois; and many cousins, aunts, and uncles. Visitation will be held at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea on Saturday, February 28, 2009 from 3 to 5 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family.

Joseph Paul Brady
of Stockbridge, MI

Age 81, passed away on Wednesday, February 25, 2009 at Allegiance Health in Jackson. He was born on August 28, 1927 in Gladwin, MI, the son of Thomas and Flora (Gray) Brady. On July 27, 1951 he married Dorothy Marilyn Nicholas in Howell and she survives. In addition to his wife he is survived by six children, Judy (Willard) Gould of Jackson, Robert P. (Barbara) Brady of Webberville, Sandra Akers of Jackson, Patricia A. Brady of Stockbridge, Bonnie (Jerome) St. Charles of Huntsville, AL, and Thomas A. (Rachel) Brady of Kalkaska. He is also survived by his siblings, Frank (Tommi) Brady of Indian River, Nona (Raymond) Skinner of Coldwater, Arnel (Ella) Brady of Afton, and Mona Davis of San Bernardino, CA, 14 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home in Stockbridge with Rev. Bob Freysinger officiating. Burial will follow at Plainfield Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family.

Juanita D. Smallwood
of Manchester, MI

Age 80, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2009. Juanita worked for 29 years at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital. She was an active volunteer with Meals-on-Wheels in Chelsea. In addition, she was an avid participant with the Chelsea Senior Center and had a great affinity for bowling. Juanita was a devoted and loving mother, grandmother, and a loyal friend to many others. She always lent a helping hand and truly loved her children, grandchildren, and many friends. She will be truly missed. Juanita was born in Roanoke, VA on December 16, 1928, the daughter of Frank and Dorothy Stover. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Paul D. Smallwood, and one granddaughter. She leaves behind five sons and one daughter: Doug (Nicolette) Smallwood, Patricia (Gary) Gorham, Paul (Dawn) Smallwood, Kelvin Smallwood, Bruce (Debbie) Smallwood, and Hugh Smallwood. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Jennifer, Michael, Jason, Christina, Eric, Ryan, Heather, Steven, and Matthew, and two great-grandchildren, Reagan and Saebrianna. Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 28, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 6-8 p.m. and Friday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea Senior Center, Faith In Action, or Chelsea Meals-on-Wheels.

Douglas M. Thibeault
of Chelsea, MI

Age 58, passed away Monday, February 23, 2009 surrounded by his family. He was born on August 16, 1950 in Wyandotte, MI, the son of Francis X. and Ilene K. (McMillan) Thibeault. Douglas lived a quiet life and he loved animals, especially dogs, in addition to classic car shows and restoration. In addition to his parents he is survived by one sister, Roni (Lenard) Kass of Taylor, MI. He is also survived by two nephews, Randy (Kim) and Sean (Corinne); one niece, Stefanie; one great-nephew, Bryce; and one great-niece, Bailey. Funeral services will be held Thursday, February 26, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will take place a later date at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Huron Valley Humane Society.

Dr. James Kelso Dent
of Street (formerly Bethesda), Maryland

Age 91, passed away on Tuesday, January 6, 2009 in Street, MD. He was preceded in death by his wife, Vivian Emma Kalmbach Dent. He is survived by two children, Laurel J. Dent and Paul M. Dent; one son-in-law, George Ferris Lipscomb; one daughter-in-law, Charlene L. Dent; and three grandchildren. Funeral services were held in Bethesda, MD. A graveside service will be held Thursday, February 26, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at Unadilla Cemetery. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.

William Hawks, M.D.
of Gregory, MI

"I slept and dreamt that life was joy. I awoke and found that life was service. I acted and behold, service was joy." (Rabindranath Tagore) This is the mantra that drove Dr. Bill Hawks to live his life in service to mankind.

Dr. Hawks died peacefully in comfort and grace in the home that he loved tucked deep in the woods near Chelsea. He was cared for to the end by his loving wife of 18 years, Kathryn, who is a Registered Nurse.

Bill was born to William and Virginia (Mosier) Hawks on January 11, 1934 in Buffalo, NY. He graduated from Wayne State in 1958 with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics. He found work with Chrysler at the Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama and USAFTA. He moved to southern Italy and then western Turkey and worked as the Inertial Guidance systems engineer for the Jupiter Missile program. Slowly he came to realize that he didn't want his life's work to be about aiming hydrogen bombs at Russia and so he moved from Ismir, Turkey to Ann Arbor and enrolled in U-M Medical School, graduating in 1967.

He interned at SJMH and completed his residency in Ophthalmology in 1971. Dr. Hawks served on the medical staff at SJMH for 30 years and at Chelsea Community Hospital for over 37 years where he also served on the Board of Trustees. He was a U-M Department of Ophthalmology clinical faculty member from 1972 to 1992 and sat on the U-M Medical School admissions board for 10 years.

Dr. Hawks' volunteer work spans 4 decades and he has traveled around the world seven times restoring sight to blind people in the world's poorest of the poor nations. He has been a consultant for Helen Keller, WHO and the SEVA foundation. His work took him to Morocco, Tanzania and Malawi. He had worked in Guatemala, India, the Aleutian Islands and many 2-3 month long trips to Nepal.

Bill leaves two children: Kirk (Ardella) and Karen (Jerry) Musgrave, four grandsons: Jason Musgrave, Jordan, Calvin, and Landan Hawks. A brother Ray (Cozy) resides in Florida. Bill's former wife and the mother of his children, Beverly, preceded him in death.

Two weeks before Bill died, a Celebration of Love and Life was held in his honor. 130 invited friends and family came to speak their appreciations and gratitude for his influence in their lives. As news of the Celebration event was conveyed around the world to the teams Bill has worked with from SEVA, emails began pouring in from all over the U.S., SEVA headquarters in California and from hospitals in India as well as from his local patients. Bill spent his finals days hearing messages such as:
"...your intention has always been pure and so had your heart and when the time comes, you will be able to rest secure in the knowledge that you have touched so many with such pure love that you carry our hearts and love with you wherever you go..." and "you would be proud to see the fruits of all the work you did for many years, the untold thousands who have benefited..." and "because of the talk you gave in 1980, I am now doing volunteer work" and "With sadness I hear of your illness but do not be afraid, your soul knows the way."

Visitation will be at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea on Wednesday, March 4, 2009 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Donations in Dr. Hawks' name can be made to the Patient Assistance Fund at Chelsea Community Hospital. No flowers please.

George H. Bellairs
of Chelsea, MI

Age 87, died Friday, February 20, 2009 at the Chelsea Community Hospital. He was born on August 12, 1921 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the son of George H. Sr. and Mina (Stradling) Bellairs. Mr. Bellairs had lived in the area for the past three years, coming from Pleasant Lake where he owned and operated a fiber farm with his wife. He also worked for Bell Telephone Company for 35 years, retiring in 1986. He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the Army Air Corp., being discharged on December 31, 1945. On June 20, 1941, he married Gloria Y. Gerren in Petoskey, and she survives. Also surviving are five children, Beatrice (Lowell) Fisher of Missouri, Yvonne (Eric) Jenkins of Dexter, George (Stephanie) Bellairs of Texas, Michael (Sheri) Bellairs of Munith, and Lisa (Ron) Jackson of Ann Arbor; also, five grandchildren. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, February 24, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. from the First Baptist Church in Stockbridge with Rev. Brian Johnson officiating. Private burial will take place at a later date. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Stockbridge First Baptist Church. The family will receive friends at the church Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.

Myrtle Prater
of Munith, MI

Age 88, passed away February 17, 2009 at home. She was born on March 16, 1920 in Ivington, Kentucky, the daughter of George and Mousie (Fletcher) Cole. She took pride in foster parenting more than 30 children. She enjoyed gardening, shopping, and going to church. She was a charter member of the Church of God in Stockbridge, Mich. On September 12, 1938 she married Venson Prater in Royalton, Kentucky. She is survived by two sons, Don (Kathy) Prater of Jefferson, OH and Doug (Kathy) Prater of Munith, MI, one daughter, Jean Tackett, also of Munith, seven grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, one sister, Sylvia Johnson of Marshall, MI, one sister-in-law, Pearlie Cole of Kentucky, and three brothers, Andy Cole, Ronnie Cole, and Arthur Cole of Kentucky. She was preceded in death by her husband, Venson, grandson, Timothy Ray Marshall, mother, father, and multiple brothers and sisters. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2009 at Highest Praise Worship Center in Stockbridge at 11:00 a.m. with Bishop Jeff Lambert, Rev. Jeff Howard, and Rev. George Aton officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home on Thursday from 6 - 8 p.m. and Friday from 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the church of one's choice.

Edna Alta Nielan
of Stockbridge, MI

Age 95, passed away on February 16, 2009 surrounded by her family. She was born on September 20, 1913 in Highland Park, MI, the daughter of Benjamin and Ida J. (Measel) Moore. On August 15, 1935 she married John E. Nielan in Detroit and he preceded her in death on September 15, 1990. Edna had lived in the area since 1995, coming from Bloomfield Hills. She enjoyed gardening, knitting, reading, and cooking. She is survived by two children, Patricia Simons and John (Diane) Nielan; five grandchildren, Christine Nielan, Jonathan Nielan, Patrick Johnson, Mark Johnson, and John Simons; and six great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, February 19, 2009 at 3:00 p.m. from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home. Expressions of sympathy may be made to either Great Lakes Hospice or Mason Meals-on-Wheels.

James Arnold
of Pinckney, MI

Age 66, passed away on February 15, 2009 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born the son of Rudolph and Martha (Chedrick) Arnold on March 29, 1942 in Harrisburg, PA. On June 15, 1963 he married Georgia M. Alder and she survives. Jim loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing and chopping wood. He loved sports of all kinds, especially football and baseball. Jim could fix anything that was not working properly. He was a friend to everyone and would give anyone the shirt off his back. In addition to his wife, Jim is survived by his children, Martha (Ron) Ehmann of Indian River, MI and Leslie (Pastor Jerry) Gould of Stockbridge; his mother, Martha Norton of Bloomfield Hills; and a brother, Michael D. (Vickie) Arnold of Bloomfield Hills. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Justin James, Danielle Marie, Jacob Spencer, Rebecca Lauren, Andrew Benjamin, Thomas James, and Hanna Linsey. A memorial service will be held Saturday, February, 21, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until the hour of service. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Arbor Hospice Foundation.

Samuel Tolken DeCamp
May 18, 1938
February 13, 2009

Samuel Tolken DeCamp, 70, of Dexter MI, passed away February 13, 2009 at University of Michigan Hospital from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Sam was born May 18, 1938, in Detroit to Donald and Edythe Tolken DeCamp. He received his undergraduate and Masters in Physics degrees from Dartmouth College. During his 30 years in the aerospace industry, he was internationally recognized for his contributions to the discipline of precision navigation and track guidance. He authored 12 invited international papers on the subject as it applied to aerial application, photogrammetry, and geophysical survey. In 1993, he founded his own business, AgriTrack Systems, Inc. to develop guidance systems for crop dusters, using the emerging GPS technology. In his semi-retirement, he and his wife Martha Drouyor (Belknap) DeCamp moved to Dexter, where he enjoyed performing in the Dexter Community Orchestra, Livingston Symphony Orchestra, and Ypsilanti Symphony Orchestra, as a member of the double bass section. Music on both his bass and piano was his passion! He is survived by his wife Martha; sons: Eric Donald DeCamp and Gregory Lester DeCamp and wife Tina; one daughter, Kristin Lorraine McAllister; their mother, Jacquelyn Wollard DeVall; grandchildren: Heather, Jeffrey, Megan, Ryan, Brittany, Lauren, Kathleen, Matthew and Joel; step-sons: Ralph Belknap, John Belknap and wife Kelly Belknap. Memorial contributions may be made to any of his orchestras or to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dexter, MI. Arrangements are being handled by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 North Main Street, Chelsea. Cremation has taken place. Private burial will be later in Spring Grove Family Cemetery in Cincinnati OH. Visitation will be from Noon to 2 p.m. followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 2 p.m. on Thursday, February 19, 2009 at St. Joseph Church, at the corner of Mast and Territorial Roads in Dexter, with Father Brendan J. Walsh celebrating.

Richard L. Gilloz
of Munith, MI

Age 66 passed away at Allegiance Hospital in Jackson, MI on February 12, 2009. He was born the son of Allen G. and Evelyn N. (Gilbert) Gilloz on July 24, 1942. On November 24, 1993 he married Arlene Paxton and she survives. Dick had a passion for the outdoors where he enjoyed hunting, fishing, riding snowmobiles, and chopping wood. Most of all he was a loving husband, father and grandfather. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children Scott (Leigh) Gilloz of Greenville, OH, Marie (Bill) Chambers or Lawrenceville, GA, Jodi (Charles) Drainville of Las Vegas, NV, Cristy (Ernie) Kovath of Brighton and 13 grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Kevin (Kathy) DuBois of Temperence. In addition to his parents, Dick was preceded in death by his son-in-law Brian Kovath and his daughter Susan Kimber. At the request of Dick and his family cremation has taken place and a private memorial service will take place at a later date. Arrangements are by the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

William G. MacMain
of Pinckney, MI

Age 58, passed away on Thursday, February 5, 2009 while traveling in Munster, Indiana. He was born on April 17, 1950 in Highland Park, MI, the son of William J. and Ruth H. (Hansen) MacMain. On March 5, 2000 he married Connie Fay Manley in Ohio and she survives. Bill loved to hunt deer, turkey, and rabbit. He also enjoyed sports, especially baseball, coaching Little League, and watching his daughter's sports. In addition to his wife, he is survived by their children, Billy (Renee) MacMain of Westland, Jessie R. MacMain of Stockbridge, and Justin Kenyon of Garden City, and three grandchildren, Billy III, Joe, and Kelly. There are no formal funeral services planned. The family will receive friends at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home in Stockbridge on Wednesday, February 11, 2009 from 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family.

Rita Versailles Collins
of Chelsea, MI

Age 95, passed away on Friday, January 23, 2009 at Chelsea Retirement Community, Towsley Village. She was born on July 16, 1913 in Lake Linden, MI, the daughter of Alfred and Mary (Eggelston) Versailles. She was a graduate of Northern State Teacher's College in Marquette, MI. She married William John Collins on August 15, 1934 and he preceded her in death on May 28, 1999. She was also preceded in death by two brothers, James of Chelsea and Allan of Tomaqua, PA, and one sister, Sr. M. J. Vianney of Milwaukee, WI. She is survived by one sister, Mary (Walter) Carlson of Merrillville, IN. She is also survived by one daughter, Barbara (Robert) Merkel of Ann Arbor, two sons, David (Patricia) of Poland, OH and James (Florence) of Chelsea, nine grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and fifteen nieces and nephews. Rita and William (Bill) moved to Chelsea from Stockbridge in 1946. In later years, Rita taught fourth grade at St. Mary’s Elementary School in Chelsea, and also worked in the Dietary Kitchen at Chelsea Community Hospital. She was a gifted piano player, playing entirely by ear. She loved to cook and sew. She and Bill were avid square dancers, many years ago. A funeral mass will be held Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. The family will receive friends at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Memorial contributions may be made to the UMRC Towsley Village Heritage Foundation, St. Mary Catholic Church Building Fund, or Silver Maples Endowment Fund. Interment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Ernest Graf
of Dansville, MI

Passed away on February 6, 2009 in Lansing, MI. He was born on January 12, 1915 in Louisville, KY to Gottfried and Anna (Dapp) Graf. He was a lifelong dairy farmer and a member of Millville United Methodist Church where he was recently honored as one of the oldest long time members. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Rosalie (Harold) Paul, G. C. (Gwen) Graf, John (Esther) Graf, and Elizabeth Lytle. He is survived by a brother, Fred (Theda) Graf, a sister-in-law, Irene Graf, and a brother-in-law, Elmer Lytle. Ernest is also survived by the following nieces and nephews: Carol (Harvey) Fanson, David (Wendy) Fanson, Dennis (Shelly) Fanson, DeeAnn (Bob) Picken, Roger (Joan) Graf, Aaron (Kelly) Graf, Ethan (Stephen Lott) Graf, Anna Graf, Kathleen Young, Missy (Dave) Humphries, Chris (Scott) Below, Marilyn (Dean) Katz, Debbie (Pat) Feeney, Mike (Michelle) Katz, Jerry (Sue) Lytle, John (Jamie) Lytle, Brian Lytle, Nancy (Darren) Young, Glenn (Diane) Graf, Renee Galbreath, Jeff (Elizabeth) Graf, Lance (Erin) Graf, Dorene (Charles) Smith, Craig (Laura) Smith, and Curt Smith. A funeral service will be held Monday, February 16, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at the Millville United Methodist Church. The family will receive relatives and friends at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home in Stockbridge on Sunday from 4:00-8:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Millville United Methodist Church in memory of Ernie.

Larry E. Dunlap
of Leslie, MI

Age 64, passed away Thursday, February 5, 2009 at Allegiance Health in Jackson. He was born on March 25, 1944 in Jackson, MI, the son of Lawrence and Theselene (McCaslin) Dunlap. Larry had lived in the area all his life and liked cars, drag racing, and spent a lot of time at the American Legion Post 491 of Leslie. For 30 years he worked for General Motors Car Company in Lansing, retiring in the mid 1990's. Surviving are one son, Larry (Tracy) Baldwin of Stockbridge; two sisters, Janet Dalrymple of Kalkaska and Carolyn Dalrymple of Onondaga; and one granddaughter, Katelyn Baldwin. A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 28, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at the Leslie American Legion. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Allegiance Health System. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.

Ballard J. Castle
of Stockbridge, MI

Age 71, passed away Saturday, February, 7, 2009 at the Eaton Community Hospice House in Charlotte. He was born on July 19, 1937 in Floyd County, Kentucky, the son of George and Lucinda (Nollan) Castle. Ballard had lived in the area for the past 60 years and was a member of the Good Shepherd Mission. He worked for Palmer Engineers of Holt for 30 years, retiring in 2001. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and his garden. On September 3, 1954 he married Elizabeth Samons in Kentucky and she survives. Also surviving are two children, Christine (Patrick) Foster and Rick (Sandy) Castle, both of Stockbridge; two brothers, William (Tressie) Castle of Stockbridge and Elbert (Nadine) Castle of Mason; one sister, Mary Ann Griffith of Mason; two sisters-in-law, Fannie Castle of Stockbridge and Easter Newsome of Marshall; and two grandchildren, Joshua and Scott Foster. He was preceded in death by one son, Kenneth Castle; three brothers, Hillard, Franklin, and Henry Castle; and two sisters Ruby Castle and Phoebe Shepherd. Funeral services will be held at the Good Shepherd Mission with Parson Billy Allen and Rev. Robert Castle co-officiating at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 10, 2009. Burial will take place at Munith Cemetery at a later date. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Eaton Community Hospice or the Good Shepherd Mission. Visitation will be at the Good Shepherd Mission on Monday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Mary Laurel Rohrer Reynolds
of Ann Arbor, MI

Age 67, passed away on Thursday, February 5, 2009 at her home. She was born Mary Ann Fox on March 3, 1941 in Kittanning, PA and was raised in Kensington and Chevy Chase, MD. She graduated from Bethesda Chevy Chase High School and attended Marjorie Webster Junior College. She was married to John Milton Parks (deceased) and leaves three sons, Brian Haines, Steven Gerhard, and Shawn C. Reynolds Parks, and a granddaughter, Ashlyn Everly Parks. Ms. Reynolds lived her life with passion and adventure and followed her dreams of owning a small farm where she successfully operated a bed and breakfast inn, "Reynolds House at Stonefield Farm," as well as creating a retreat center for women and her small antiques business, "Reynolds House Antiques." Previous to that, she worked for 12 years as a secretary at the University of Michigan. Her later years there were spent as a secretary and librarian in the Department of Economics. She also managed the health food store for several years, which was then a part of Seva Restaurant in Ann Arbor. In the year 2001 Ms. Reynolds sold her farm and followed another dream of living in Europe. She rented a flat in Italy near the Adriatic Sea for a year where her writing led her to yet another adventure as a travel writer. She wrote articles for Artshowcase, a magazine based in Ann Arbor. Following her year in Italy she moved to Annapolis, MD for two years, but missing Ann Arbor led to her return in 2005, where she continued writing and took up painting. Her life was full and richly rewarded in loving friendships. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, February 8, 2009 at 12:00 noon at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 N. Main St., Chelsea, MI. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Ms. Reynolds will be buried with her ancestors in Kittanning Cemetery, Kittanning, PA. In lieu of flowers, donations are requested to be given to Dr. Diane Simeone's Research in Pancreatic Cancer.

Douglas R. Johnsen
of Gregory, MI

Age 58, died at home unexpectedly on February 1, 2009. He was born to Raymond and Loretta (Johnson) Johnsen on April 10, 1950 in Redwing, MN. Doug was known around the Gregory area as "The Water Guy." He enjoyed golfing and building things with his hands. He also liked being with his family, especially his grandchildren. Doug is survived by his daughters, Erika Johnsen of Gregory, Teresa Johnsen of AZ, and Laura Johnsen of Ann Arbor. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Libby Johnsen, Caleb Chimenti, and John Douglas Fillinger, as well as his siblings, Karen (Gary) Langer of Ellsworth, MI, Diane Hauschildt of CO, Karla Linhart of Ellsworth, WI, Larry Erickson of Redwing, MN, Frances Peterson, Anoka, MN, and Betty Wiff of Balsam Lake, WI. Doug was preceded in death by his parents. A memorial service will be held at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home on Wednesday, February 4, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Larry Rubingh officiating. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family.

James C. Bradbury
of Chelsea, MI

Age 70, died at home on January 26, 2009. He was born the son of Paul and Dorothy (Gillespie) Bradbury on October 19, 1938. He married Sharon Ann (Burke) Talley on May 16, 1980 and she preceded him in death in 2007. He served in the United States Navy. James loved to be outdoors hunting and fishing. Most of all Jim loved being around people and going out to eat. Jim is survived by his children, Jennifer (Geo) Sticks of CA, Kellie (James) Snider of OR, John M. Bradbury of AZ, and Paul J. (Patricia) Bradbury of OR. Also surviving are nine grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife and parents he was preceded in death by a sister, Paula J. Presley, and his brother, James L. Bradbury. Funeral services will be Friday, January 30, 2009 from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home with Deacon Richard Shaneyfelt officiating at 1:00 p.m. Burial will take place at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the American Cancer Society.

John Carl Schutte
of Pleasant Lake, MI

Age 82, passed away Saturday, January 24, 2009 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Superior Township. He was born on August 17, 1926 in Mason, MI, the son of John Carl and Nina (Scott) Schutte Sr. John had lived in the area all his life and was a welder for Acme Industries in Jackson for nearly 20 years. Favorite pastimes were going to auctions and tending to his vegetable garden. He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the United States Army, being discharged on November 22, 1946. On January 23, 1965 he married Judith A. McComb in Jackson, and she survives. Also surviving are two sons, John (Heidi Heimbach) of Kalamazoo, and Joseph Schutte of Jackson; two grandchildren, Tia and Taylor Schutte; and two sisters, Marjorie Peters of Jerome, MI, and Mabel Kranz of Lansing. He was preceded in death by one brother, Ernest Schutte, and six sisters, Marguerite Bunker, Virginia Larner, Frances Kraft, Nora Lardie, Alice Graves, and Joyce Vann. Private services will be held at a later date. Burial will also be private at Fitchburg Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Chelsea Community Hospital. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.

Dorothy M. Henes
of Dexter, MI

Age 89, passed away Thursday, January 22, 2009 at the Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born on March 12, 1919 in Chelsea, Michigan, the daughter of Edward and Mary (Nordman) Koch. Mrs. Henes had lived in Dexter and was a member of St. Joseph Catholic church all her life and was an altar society member for many faithful years. Sunday and holiday dinners brought her great joy. She owned and operated her own catering business for 35 years. Summers at Baseline Lake with her grandchildren she adored. Watching humming birds and her garden she truly loved. Surviving are five children, Kenneth Henes, Mary (Nick) Heller, and Linda (Floyd) McMichael, all of Dexter, Ruth Ann Allerton of Grand Rapids, and James Henes of California; 19 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Margaret Longthorne and Mary Vasher, both of Harrison; and several loving nieces and nephews. Dorothy and her family appreciate the many acts of kindness and support from Bob and Karen Murphy, Ann Dahman and the Dexter Senior Center. She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth E. Henes; two sons, Frederick and Edward Henes; one infant son, Kenneth; one great-grandchild; one brother, Edward Koch; and two sisters, Ruth Oppenhuizen and Gertrude Scammon. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Sunday, January 25, 2009 at 2:30 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Village Church, 3430 Dover Street, Dexter, with Father Brendan J. Walsh presiding. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Church Cemetery, Dexter. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Leader Dogs for the Blind. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 N. Main Street, Chelsea on Saturday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. with Rosary at 7:30, and also at church on Sunday from 1:30 until the time of service.

Howard Cole Sr.
of Heneritta Township, Michigan

Age 64, passed away Tuesday, January 20, 2009 at Allegiance Health in Jackson, Michigan, the son of Beecher and Roberta (Fletcher) Cole. Howard had lived in the area for the past 20 years and owned and operated H and H Excavating Company. On January 31, 1962 he married Arista Thomas and she survivies. Also surviving are two sons, Howard Cole Jr. of Dimondale and Shannon (Janet) Cole of Jackson; two daughters, Loretta (Jeffery) Wright of Munith and Marie (Scott) Roach of Jackson; 11 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren; three brothers, Carmel Cole of Jackson, Joseph (Ginger) Cole of Dimondale, and Joe (Nani) Cole of Dixon, TN; and four sisters, Thelma (Don) Nowlin of Diamondale, Jean Bush of Dixon, TN, Connie Lutman of Dixon, TN, and Wendy (Henry) Key of NC. Also, one sister-in-law, Esta Fay Cole of Lansing. He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant daughter, Detta Cole, one brother, Johnny B. Cole, and one daughter-in-law, Melissa Cole. Funeral services will be Friday, January 23, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge. Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery, Henrietta Township. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Cole Family. Friends may call Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

Glenn C. Clippert of Grass Lake, MI
formerly of Gladwin, MI

Age 80, passed away on January 19, 2009, surrounded by his family. He was born on October 29, 1928 in Rochester, MI, the son of Alvin John and Lily Mae (Olson) Clippert. On July 29, 1950 he married Angelina B. DiFabbio and she survives. Glenn loved to drive and would go across the entire country only stopping for gas and food. He was a loving husband father and grandfather. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children Cindy (Michael) Lucas of Chelsea, Janice (DeWayne) McClendon of Dundee. Also surviving are his siblings Emory (Ruth) Clippert of FL, Lili Mae (Phil) Weaver of Oscoda as well as his grandchildren Glenn D. Clippert, Angie Cook, Andrea Holman, Daniel Clippert, Kevin Cook and Michael McClendon and nine great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his daughters Linda Marie Clippert and Susan Eileen Cook. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Joseph William (Bill) Ames

Of Manchester, MI



Age 71, died unexpectedly at his home of an apparent heart attack on Sunday, January 18, 2009. Bill was born on January 10, 1938 in Sunfield, MI to Herbert W. and Sarah (Smith) Ames. He married Linda Halsey on September 11, 1958. Bill was employed as a Vocational Agricultural Teacher for four years at Springport High School and for four years at Vicksburg High School. In 1968, he left the teaching he loved to become the MSU Agricultural Extension Agent for Washtenaw County, a position he held for 28 years until his retirement in 1995. In the mid 1980s, Bill began portraying Abraham Lincoln for the farm community which was undergoing a depression. Upon retirement, he expanded his portrayals each year as he participated in more and more events: Project Red, Civil War re-enactments, Historical Museum presentations, school presentations, etc. He was a member of the Association of Lincoln Presenters, and was Abraham Lincoln of the Year in 2003. During the past few years, he began working Mondays at the United Producers (formally Michigan Livestock Exchange) in Manchester so that he could continue to have contact with ’his farmers’. Bill was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Ann Arbor, being the first person most people saw at the back door. He also helped with the homeless ministry. Bill has received numerous honors and awards throughout the years for his dedication to those he loved to serve.



Bill is survived by his wife of 50 years, Linda; four daughters, Stacey Ames, Vanessa (Phil) Albee, Theresa Ames, Stephanie (Bruce) Carlton; five grandchildren, Ben (Stephanie) Carlton, Matt (Danielle) Carlton, Chett Albee, Megan Carlton, and Ryan Albee; and two great-grandchildren, Madison Rose and Hunter Elias Carlton. Bill is also survived by brother, Herbert (Connie) Ames; and cousins, Janet (Kendall) Baughman and Clif (Susan) Schultz; and mother-in-law, Rhea Halsey. Bill was preceded in death by parents, Herbert and Sarah Ames; sister, Susan Ames; granddaughter, Angela Luree Daniels; and father-in-law, Robert Halsey. Bill leaves behind many friends and associates. Funeral services will be held Friday, January 23, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Paul Simpson Duke officiating. Interment will take place at Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte, MI. Contributions in Bill’s memory may be made to the First Baptist Church of Ann Arbor for ministries to the homeless, or the Charity of One’s Choice. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Wednesday from 6-8 p.m., and Thursday, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., also Friday from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service.

Lucy Grosch
of Jackson, MI

Age 83, passed away Sunday, January 18, 2009 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital. She was born on September 14, 1925 in East Palestine, Ohio, the daughter of James and Marie Louisa (Guisappa) Ricardo. Mrs. Grosch had lived in the area for the past couple of months, coming from Arizona. She liked to decorate her house and enjoyed her family. On November 28, 1945 she married Frank A. Grosch and he survives. Also surviving are four children, Daniel (Paula) Grosch of St. Louis, Steven (Sharon) Grosch of California, Barbara (Chuck) Sullivan of Grass Lake, and Matthew (Tricia) Grosch of Lewood, Kansas; ten grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, one infant son, two brothers, Pete and Nicholas, and three sisters, Carolina, Mary, and JoAnn. A Memorial Service will be Saturday, January 24, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. from St. Mary Catholic Church with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Expressions of sympathy can be made to St. Joseph Mercy Hospice. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

John Paul Yuhas
of Unadilla Township, MI

Age 63, passed away January 13, 2009 at his home. He was born on November 6, 1945 in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, the son of John A. and Anna L. (Ero) Yuhas. John had lived in the area since 1972 and was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Pinckney. Hunting, model trains, horses, and breeding dogs he truly enjoyed, but his last employment at Cabela's was a dream come true. He was also a veteran of the Vietnam War serving in the United States Navy. On December 3, 1966 he married Dianne M. Metro in Pennsylvania and she survives. Also surviving are one daughter, Renee (Dan) Boik of Fenton; one grandson, Hunter Paul Boik; one sister, Joe Ann Obusek of Pennsylvania; and several nieces and nephews and wonderful friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Geraldine Yuhas. Funeral services will be Saturday, January 17, 2009 at 11:00 from St. Mary Catholic Church, 14200 Old US-12, Chelsea, with the Rev Dr. William J. Turner presiding. The family will receive friends at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, 424 E. Main St., Stockbridge on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. with Rosary at 7:30.

Keith H. Mitchell
of Dexter, MI

Age 39 died unexpectedly on January 13, 2009 at Chelsea Community Hospital. He was born the son of Harold and Bonita (Shoulders) Mitchell on November 18, 1969. On September 3, 1994 in Ann Arbor, Michigan he married Christina M. Flores and she survives. Keith was a man on a mission to complete tasks whatever they may be. He was a hard worker that could be counted on to get the job done. He could fix anything and he would not rest until the job was complete to his satisfaction. His work ethic extended to his talent as a gifted guitar player and music writer. He was a laid back person with a favorite saying ’I’m not worried about it’regardless of the situation. He was a natural leader that always had
a smile on his face since the day he was born. Most of all he was a loving son,husband, father and brother. In addition to his wife and parents, he is survived by his sons Michael Andrew Champagne, and Sebastian Keith Mitchell as well as his siblings Cindy M. Wilhelmsen of Pinckney, and Jarrod B. Mitchell of Dexter. He is als o survived by Christina’s parents Andy (Sally) Flores of Dearborn Heights, as well as her siblings, Sandy (Mark) Oakley of Allen Park, Gilbert (Kim) Flores of Allen Park, and Natalia (Martin) Flores of Dearborn Heights and his nieces Lauren, Andrea and Ciana and nephews Kyle, Ryan and Emilio; along with many cousins. Funeral services will be Saturday from the Shalom Lutheran Church in Pinckney, MI with Pastor Kurt Hutchens officiating at 1:00 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Mitchell education fund. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell funeral home on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. and again at church on Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until the hour of service.

Angie (Stevens) Sommers of Dundee, MI
Formerly of Munith

Age 40 passed away at her home surrounded by her family on January 10, 2009. She was born the daughter of Delbert and Willma (Hyden) Stevens on July 23, 1968 in Jackson, MI. On July 30, 1994 in Stockbridge, MI she married Greg Sommers and he survives. Angie was a huge fan of Michigan Hockey, she enjoyed volunteering at her son’s school and fishing. She was a loving wife, mother and sister, Angie loved her family and they were her world.In addition to her husband Greg, Angie is survived by her son Niklas, and her siblings Janet (Ken) Sanders of Munith, Roger Stevens of Pleasant Lake, Delbert (Krissa) Stevens of Jackson, Trisha (Bruce) Klingbeil of Stockbridge and Ray (Patty) Stevens of Jackson. She is also survived by Greg’s parents Dr. James K. (Peggy) Sommers and his sister Cindy (Kelly) Sommers Weaver, as well as, many nieces and nephews. Angie was preceded in death by her parents. Funeral services will be Wednesday, January 14, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. from the Caskey-Mitchell funeral home with the Rev. Robert Castle officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove cemetery in Munith. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Niklas Sommers education fund. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

William C. Dittmar
of Chelsea, MI

Age 96, passed away January 6, 2009 at the Chelsea Retirement Community. He was born on February 16, 1912 in Wayne, MI, the son of Herman and Amelia (Janner) Dittmar. William had been coming to Cavanaugh Lake in Chelsea since the late 1920’s. He attended Immanuel Bible Church in Chelsea. At the age of 95 for the 2007 firearms season, Bill managed to successfully take a buck. He also enjoyed fishing also at Cavanaugh Lake. Beginning in 1970 he owned and operated Cavanaugh Lake Store and he sold the business in 1980. William retired as a Lieutenant from the Wayne Fire Department after 25 years. On July 25, 1936 he married Hazel M. Smith and she preceded him in death on March 28, 1996. Surviving are four daughters, Janet (Robert) McPherson of Howell, Joan Dittmar of Wayne, Judy (Larry) Fidh of Gladwin, and Jean (Phil) La Joy of Canton; ten grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife he was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Arthur Dittmar and Edward Dittmar; one sister, Esther Crowley; and his son, James Dittmar. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2009 from the Uht Funeral Home in Westland, MI. The family will receive friends at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. and at Uht Funeral Home on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Immanuel Bible Church or the Old Betsy Fund at Wayne Fire Department.

Nora A. Blanchard
June 17, 1919 - January 4, 2009

Chelsea, MI - Nora Arvilla (White) Blanchard, 89, died quietly on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2009 while enjoying a peaceful afternoon reading in her room at the Chelsea Retirement Community (CRC). Mrs. Blanchard was born June 17, 1919 in Schenectady, NY to James White and Alice (Priddle) White, one of five siblings. She married Robert Durrell Blanchard on Feb. 22, 1941 at Trinity Methodist Church with her sister Margaret Kilfoyle attending. Mr. Blanchard died Feb. 11, 1999 in Albany, NY. She also was preceded in death by a son, Robert D. (Bud) Blanchard, Jr. on May 30, 2000. Surviving are three daughters: Susan Jane (Gillespie) Moore (Harold) of Chelsea, MI; Beverly Alice Miller (James) of Farmington Hills, MI; and Sally Jeanne Snell (Douglas) of Blanchard, MI. Mrs. Blanchard is also survived by eight grandchildren: Lisa Rowe, Nancy Stine, James Snell, Eric Gillespie, Tania Schriptsema, Fred Miller, Alice Bailey, and Robyn Tacci, and 16 great-grandchildren. In addition, Mrs. Blanchard is survived by her sister, Avis Puchalski, Schenectady, NY and Clifford White, Scotia, NY as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Mrs. Blanchard will be remembered fondly for her quick wit, interest in others, knitting and crocheting, organ playing, travel, and zest for life. A Celebration of Life service will be held at the Chelsea Retirement Community Chapel, 1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 11. A graveside service will be held at a later date in Memory Garden, Niskayuna, NY. It was Mrs. Blanchard's wish that contributions be made to the Memorial Garden, CRC, 805 W. Middle St., Chelsea, MI 48118, (734) 475-8633. Arrangements are being handled by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Inc., 901 N. Main St., Chelsea, MI 48118, (734) 475-1444.

Amelia Mildred (Toma)Townsend
of Dexter, MI

Age 83 passed away at the Chelsea Community Hospital on January 1, 2009. She was born the daughter of Joseph and Olivia (Gerdan) Toma on May 4, 1925 in Dexter Township . On October 6, 1951 she married Allan Townsend and he survives. Millie loved her family and was a strong force to every one that knew her. She volunteered over 6000 hours at the Chelsea Community Hospital , played golf and enjoyed fishing. She was an outdoor woman who loved gardening and bird watching. She was a musician’s wife that always listened to Al’s music wherever he was playing. Most of all she was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. In addition to her husband, Millie is survived by her children Lynne (Daniel) Raglin of Ypsilanti and Steven (Kathy) Townsend of Pinckney, as well as her grandchildren Emma, Olivia, Ryan, Jenna, Kimberlee and Stefanee, along with her great-grandchildren Colin, Elizabeth, KaVMil and Dae’sJa. Also surviving are her siblings Joe Toma of Dexter, Barbara Bultman of Ann Arbor , George (Barbara) Toma of Dexter and Jim Toma of Whitmore Lake . In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter Diana Louise Townsend, and her sisters Sophie and Mildred Toma. Also surviving are her two feline friends, Benny and Beezer. A memorial service will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Wednesday, January 7, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. with the Rev. David Caswell officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 11:00 a.m. until the hour of service. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the American Red Cross.

Dorothy Yeoman
of Stockbridge, MI

Age 94, passed away on January 1, 2009 at Towsley Village in Chelsea. She was born on February 15, 1914 in Washington D.C., the daughter of John R. and Edith A. (Taylor) Chamberlain. On April 29, 1933 she married John A. Yeoman and he preceded her in death. Dorothy liked to sew and grow plants. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her daughter, Janice (Gerald) Salow of Stockbridge, six grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband she was preceded in death by her son, Jeffrey A. Yeoman; three brothers, Harold, Cecil, and Harman Chamberlain; and two sisters, Frances Ives and Ruth Rogers. Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 3, 2009 from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home with Rev. Larry Rubingh officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Stockbridge United Methodist Church.

Doris J. Richmond
of Gregory, MI

Age 77, passed away December 25, 2008 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor. She was born on January 6, 1931 in Jackson, the daughter of Howard and Sarah (Wright) Feldpausch. On June 23, 1950 she married Jack R. Richmond and he survives. Doris loved sewing and crafting and always loved to make a new recipe for her family to try. She was an avid bird watcher and liked to do puzzles. She was a loving sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. In addition to her husband she is survived by her children, Carol Furtney of Munith, Jim (Pat Prietz) Richmond of Gregory, Judy (Russ Levack) Buckner of Old Fort, NC, Beverly Outwater of Marion, NC, Amy (Steve) Drow of Stockbridge; 9 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; brother, Louis Feldpausch of Jackson; sisters, Lois McGauley, Mary Feldpausch, and Donna Feldpausch, all of Jackson. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her brother, William Feldpausch, and one son, Robert Richmond and one sister Margaret Cranna. Funeral services will be Monday, December 29, 2008 at 1:00 P.M. fronm the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge with Rev. Robert Freysinger officiating. Burial will follow at Unadilla Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Gregory Fire Works. The family will receive friends at the funeral; home Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M.

Thomas Morawiec
Of Gregory, MI

Age 57, passed away on Wednesday, December 24, 2008 at his home. He was born on February 12, 1951 in Hamtramck, MI the son of John and Anna (Jaremski) Morawiec. Tom had lived in the area since 1978, moving from Detroit. He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Pinckney. He was an outdoor person and enjoyed fishing, boating, and working outside in his yard. He worked as a mechanic for Ford Motor Company for 39 ½ years. On November 19, 1987 he married Lorraine A. ’Lori’ (Kosikowski) Lyson, and she survives. Also surviving are one daughter, Ashley Morawiec, of Gregory; three brothers, John (Barbara) Morawiec of Weidman, MI, Steve (Donna) Morawiec, of Wixom, MI, and David Morawiec of Florida; and one sister, Diane (Phil) Doyle of Kissimmee, FL. He was preceded in death by his parents. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, December 29, 2008, from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea. Burial will take place at St. Hedwig Cemetery in Dearborn Heights, MI. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to an educational fund for Ashley Morawiec.

Deborah C. Schuyler
of Chelsea, MI

Age 52, passed away unexpectedly on December 23, 2008. She was born October 7, 1956, the daughter of Justin and Diana (Bailey) Quinn. Deborah had lived in Washtenaw County all of her life, graduating from Dexter High School in 1974. She had worked as a seamstress for Chris Roberts-Antieau in Manchester for the past ten years. She had an extremely creative personality. She was especially talented with working with fabric and wood. She adored her family and is survived by her husband of 34 years, Ronald Schuyler; two daughters, Candice (and her fiance, Ryan Kush) Schuyler of Clinton, MI and Shannon Schuyler of Chicago; her mother, Diana (Dallas) Bachelder of Winter Haven, FL; a very special friend of the family, Leah Thompson of Grand Rapids; one brother, Michael (Sandy) Quinn of Durham, N.C. and one sister, Bonnie Quinn of Florida; and her faithful dog of 16 years, Dakota. She was preceded in death by her father and her grandmother, Margaret Bailey. A memorial service will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Saturday, December 27, 2008 at 3:00 p.m. with Ronald W. and La Vonne M. Harris co-officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans or the charity of one's choice. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

Dawn M. Young
Of Chelsea, MI
Formerly of Wyandotte, MI

Age 83, passed away at the Chelsea Retirement Community, Towsley Village on December 21, 2008. She was born the daughter of George B. and Mildred L. (Warner) Lemmen on July 16, 1925 in Flint, MI. On March 29, 1944 she married L. Bruce Young, and he preceded her in death. Dawn was a loving mother of four that could be counted on to help anyone that was in need. She was involved in the PTA, Girl Scouts, worked as a seamstress for many years, taught dancing, enjoyed making arts and crafts, and was a teacher and dance instructor. Dawn was a perfectionist in everything she did. She is survived by her children, Rebecca Young of Birmingham, MI, Gail (Robert) Jackson of Chelsea, Brooke (T.J.) Spencer of Chelsea, Todd (Charlotte) Young of Houston, TX, and her sister Sherry (Milton) Lutchansky of NJ. Also surviving are her grandchildren, Kelly Jackson, Olivia Nelson, and Benjamin Spencer, and her great-grandchild, Scout Nelson, as well as her sister-in-law, Mildred White of MN. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her son, Duane Young in 2005, and her brothers, Reese, Murray and Dallas Lemmen. Funeral services will be held on December 24, 2008 from the Chelsea Retirement Community, Towsley Village Chapel with the Rev. Beth Foster officiating at 10:00 a.m. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Tuesday, December 23, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the American Diabetes Association.

Jeweline "Jewel" Hale
of Stockbridge, MI

Age 81, passed away Sunday, December 21, 2008 at her home. She was born on August 28, 1927 in Royalton, Kentucky the daughter of Sherman and Darkey (Fletcher) Marshall. Jewel had attended many churches in the area including Heeney Road Baptist Church. She loved shopping and giving everything she could to others. Grandchildren and great-grandchildren she truly cherished. On December 31, 1960 she married Buck E. Hale and he survives. Also surviving are three sons, Ronald (Linda) Arnett of Kentucky, Donald Arnett of Dansville and Mark (Mary Ellen) Hale of Stockbridge, 14 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and 1 great- great-grandson. She was preceded in death by her parents, her first husband, Roger Arnett, three brothers, four sisters, and 2 infant siblings. Funeral services will be Tuesday, December 23, 2008 at 1:00 P.M. from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge with Rev. Ronald Arnett and Rev. Robert Castle co-officiating. Burial will follow at Munith Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the charity of one's choice. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 11:00 A.M. until the time of the service.

Viola Green Fisher
of Stockbridge, Michigan
formerly of Fredericksburg, Virginia

Age 82, died at the University of Michigan Hospital on December 18, 2008. She was born the daughter of Pasquale and Genevieve (Rubino) Scallo on February 21, 1926 in Asbury Park, New Jersey. Viola was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother that helped raise a wonderful blended family. On May 4, 1947 she married John W. Green, and he preceded her in
death. She then married Wayne Fisher on September 3, 1983, and he also preceded her in death. Viola is survived by her two biological daughters, Susan (John) Wamback of Stockbridge, and JoAnn Adcock of Virginia, as well as her step-children Kathleen (Greg) Haysen of TX, Susan Pennypacker of TN, Nancy (William) Anderson of PA, David (Evelyne) Fisher of IL, and Tracey
(Christopher) Ruff of Virginia. Also surviving are her grandchildren, John A. Wamback, Kelly Ann Miller, and Michael S. Braxton, as well as many great-grandchildren. In addition to her husbands and parents, she was preceded in death by two sisters and four brothers. The family will receive friends at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home on Monday from 6-8 p.m. At Viola’s request cremation has taken place and a private burial will take place at Arlington National Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Arlington National Cemetery.

Todd Brent Lee
of Scottsdale, Arizona

Age 49, passed away at his home on October 25, 2008. He was born on October 13, 1959 the son of Wilbur and Donna (Pickell) Lee. He graduated from Stockbridge High School in 1978, and had lived in Scottsdale, AZ for the past 14 years, moving from Gregory. On March 5, 1988 he married Connie Stephens, and she survives. He is also survived by his mother, of Whitefish, MT, one sister Dawn (Mark) Gregory, also of Whitefish, MT, 16 nieces and nephews, his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Ima Jean (Velton) Stephens, of Munith; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Richard (Laura) Stephens of Texas, Velton Jr. (Susie) Stephens, Sondra (Pat) Clark, Margie (Dan) Clark, all of Munith, and Carrie (Billy Jr.) Heeney of Stockbridge. He was preceded in death by his father, two nephews Brian Heeney, and Brad Clark. A graveside service will be held on Friday, December 19, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at Oaklawn Cemetery in Stockbridge. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Stockbridge Presbyterian Church. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Mark E. McKernan
of Chelsea, Michigan.

Age 89, passed away December 3, 2008 at the Chelsea Community Hospital. He was born on January 19, 1919 on the corner of Waterloo and Mester road, the son of Eugene and Stella (Conlan) McKernan. Mr. McKernan was a rural mail carrier for 28 years. A life member of St. Mary Catholic Church, charter member of the Chelsea Rotary, a veteran of World War II, life member of American Legion, Herbert McKune Post of Chelsea , and V.F.W. post of Chelsea as well. Life member of Disabled American Veterans, and former founder and owner of McKernan Reality. Mark enjoyed farming, talking with people, and truly loved being a Chelsea person. On October 9, 1948 he married Virginia R. Liebeck and she survives. Also surviving are two children, Dr. Thomas Mckernan of Chelsea and Anne Marie (Dr.Chris) Theodoran of Lancaster, PA. Six grandchildren, Matthew, Katherine, Christopher, Daniel, Thomas, Michael also several cousins including Katherine Lixey of Chelsea. He was preceded in death by 1 brother John McKernan, and three sisters Terese Bauer, Ruth Braun, and Monica LeFevre. Funeral services will be Monday December 8, 2008 at 11:00 A.M. from St. Mary Catholic Church with Rev. Dr. William Joseph Turner and Rev Fr. Joseph Rinaldo officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy can be made to St. Mary Catholic Church, St. Louis School or Chelsea Rotary Club. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. with rosary at 7:30.

Irene Jarrell
of Munith, MI

Age 85 died at the Jackson Hospice Home on December 1, 2008. She was born the daughter of William and Catherine M. (Woods) Bentley in Floyd County, Kentucky on July 19, 1923. Irene married her lifetime freind, Robert Joseph "Joe" Jarrell in 1946, and they were married for 50 years prior to his passing in 1997. Irene enjoyed quilting and crocheting, and made Afghan blankets for anyone that wanted one (and her entire family of 24!). She enjoyed gardening and planting flowers in her gardens, especially White Lillies in the Mother Mary Garden. She loved creating and tending the home that she and her husband built in Munith in 1976, and loved to cook, feeding everyone that came to her home. She had a tremendous sense of humor and loved to play tricks, tell jokes and stories. Most of all she loved spending time with her family, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Irene is survived by her children, Duane C. Jarrell of Gainesville, FL, Kathrine F. (Larry Mattingly) Myers of Hampshire, IL, and Libby (Dave) Wilson of Munith. Also surviving are ten grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, as well as one sister and three brothers. In addition to her husband "Joe", she was preceded in death by one son, SP4 Wendall Joseph Jarrell, who died while serving in Viet Nam on 7/7/70. Also preceding her were one sister and eight brothers. Funeral services will be Thursday, December 4, 2008 from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home with the Rev. Robert Castle officiating. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 11:00 a.m. until the hour of service at 2:00 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Jackson Hospice Home.

George J. Csendes
of Ann Arbor, MI

Age 80, died at his home on November 26, 2008 after a 10 year battle with cancer. He was born the son of George and Pearl (Kundrat) Csendes on July 9, 1928 in Toledo, Ohio. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Amy (Myers). George is also survived by his children Georgette Csendes of CA, Michael (Edrie) Csendes, Stephanie (David) Eckley, Andrea Csendes all of Washington State, and Scott Csendes of Ann Arbor, step children Jens Myers of NC, Beth (Tom) Collins of Dundee, Kim Myers of Saline, and Shelly Krueger of Petersburg, MI. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren, his brother Frank (Dorothy) Csendes of Temperance, MI and his sister Helen of Toledo, OH. George served in the Navy, was a ballroom dance instructor for many years, and later on managed a resale business (Garage Sale Gallery). He liked to work with people and always put a smile on those he met. He loved woodworking and was very artistic. He was an avid auction goer and collected many things including old radios. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family and all his grandchildren. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, December 3, 2008 from the Staffan-Mitchell funeral home in Chelsea, Rev. Robert J. Freysinger officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 5-8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Arbor Hospice Foundation.

Luada Marshall
of Unadilla Twp., MI

Age 98, passed away Thursday November 27, 2008 at the Chelsea Community Hospital. She was born on October 23, 1910. Luada lived in the area most of her life and was a member of the Gregory Community Church. She graduated from Stockbridge High School in 1928, and played basketball on the first women's team. Favorite pastimes were crocheting, crossword puzzles, and reading the Jackson Citizen Patriot every day from front to back. Luada enjoyed watching the crops grow from her living room window. She discussed how much the corn had grown everyday with her neighbor, Mr. Howlett, until it was time for it to be harvested. Surviving is one sister, Evelyn Titus of L'Anse, Michigan, three grandchildren, six great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband George, daughter Jean M. Watters, and an infant daughter, Ann Marshall. Funeral services will be Monday December 1, 2008 at 2:00 P.M. at the Gregory Community Church with Rev. Heidi Demott Shanes officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery, Stockbridge. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Gregory Community Church or S.A.E.S.A. The family will receive friends at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge, Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M.

Sara J. Charlton
of Dearborn Heights, MI

Age 64 passed away at Oakwood Hospital in Taylor on November 26, 2008. She was born the daughter of Austin and Ethel (Hughes) Woodward on February 7, 1944 in Mt. Vernon, Ohio. On June 11, 1966 in Columbus, Ohio she married Rodney J. Charlton and he survives. Sara enjoyed sewing, quilting, collecting cups and saucers and baking. Most of all she enjoyed being with her family especially her grandchildren. In addition to her husband, Sara is survived by her children Rodney J. Charlton II of Dearborn Heights, Brian P. (Tracy) Charlton of Dexter, Kimberly M. (Troy) Johnson of Owasso, OK, and Stuart (Janice) Charlton of Ypsilanti; her grandchildren Sarah and Jonah Charlton, Haley, Avery and Brady Johnson and Drake Charlton. Also surviving is her brother Raymond (Paula) Woodward of Columbus, OH, her sister Susan Woodward of Lewis, Delaware, Annette Bruney of Lancaster, OH, Beverly Eisel of Columbus, OH and Barbara (David) Wollenberg of Normal, IL. Funeral services will be Monday, December 1 at 11:00 a.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea, MI. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 6-8 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to your favorite charity in memory of Sara.

Arlyn James Kennedy
of Munith, Michigan

Age 80, passed away Tuesday November 25, 2008 at his home. Born on March 17, 1928 in Irving, New York, Jim had lived in the Munith area since 1966. Jim retired from the United States Navy in July 1966 after a 21 year career serving in WWII, Korea, and Vietman. Upon retirement, Jim worked for the Stockbridge School District as Maintenance Supervisor for 20 years. On July 12, 1954 he married Mary E. Medley in Indiana and she survives. Also surviving are three children, Thomas (Mary) Kennedy of Leslie, Rodney (Dawn) Kennedy of Phoenix AZ, and Jodi (Frank) Ashe of Chelsea, and six grandchildren, Kyle and Katelyn Kennedy, Emily Kennedy, Adam Small, and Ella and Claire Ashe. He was preceded in death by his parents. A visitation will be held on Saturday, November, 29 2008 from 10:00 A.M. until 12:00 Noon at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge. Private burial will take place at Munith Cemetery at a later date. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Southern Care Hospice, Juvenile Diabetes, or you can take a friend or a loved one out to lunch.

Emil Albert Klink
Of Chelsea, MI

Age 85 died at the Chelsea Community Hospital on November 24, 2008. He was born the son of John George Sr. and Matilda (Keck) Klink on September 14, 1923 in Lyndon Township, MI. Uncle Al as every one called him loved to play jokes on people and had a wonderful sense of humor. He was a quite man that was very friendly and would help anyone that was in need. Al was a man that cared for his land and loved to farm. Most of all he loved his nieces and nephews as his own children. Uncle Al is survived by his nieces Mary Ann (Duane) Walz of Munith, Donna Payne of Santa Barbara, Alice (Eugene) Wahl of Grass Lake, Esther (Gordon) Whitaker of Waterloo; Nephews Fred (Sue) Klink of Chelsea, John (Lynn) of Waterloo, Gary Klink of Chelsea, Phil Klink of Bush Road, David (Gena) Klink of Waterloo. He is also survived by his sister Pauline Hawkins of Ann Arbor Bill (Sandy) Altenbrendt of Chelsea, Mark (Jean) Hawkins of Ann Arbor, and Roland (Vera) Klink of Chelsea., as well as many great and great-great and great-great-great nieces and nephews along with lifelong friend Dean Clark . In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by Fred Klink Sr. William Klink, John George Klink Carl Klink, Louise Altenbrendt and Nephew George Klink. Funeral services will be Saturday, November, 29 from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral home at 11:00 a.m. with his niece Chaplian Wendy Walz officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Chelsea Meals on wheels.

Vivian A. Lantis
of Stockbridge, MI

Age 87, passed away November 25, 2008 at the Jackson County Care Facility. She was born on March 22, 1921 in Battle Creek, MI, the daughter of Harry C. and Ivy F. (Green) Woods. She had worked for Mason General Hospital and then retired from Sparrow Hospital in 1984. Vivian had lived in the area most of her life. She liked to sew, crochet, camp, cook , and can. On March 7, 1938 she married Harold W. Lantis and he preceded her in death in June of 1993. Surviving are four children, Robert (Sally) Lantis of Stockbridge, Barbara (Edward) Huyghe of Jackson, Ralph Lantis of Stockbridge, and daughter-in-law, Edna Lantis of Bay, AR. Also surviving are 11 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by five brothers, four sisters, one son, William Lantis, and one granddaughter, Penny Crandall. Graveside services will be held at Oaklawn Cemetery, Stockbridge. Expressions of sympathy can be made to charity of one's choice, the Henrietta Fire Department, or SAESA. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.

Minnie Clemons
Of Stockbridge

Age 101 passed away at her home on November 22, 2008. She was born the daughter of Fred and Lillian (Wheeler) Williams on September 5, 1907, in Peck, MI. She married Walter Meister and after his death married Charles Clemons of Detroit. Minnie is survived by her son, David Meister. Also surviving are her grandchildren Randy, Scott, Terry and her great-grandchildren, Kiara and Devon. She is also survived her step daughter, sister-in-law, nieces, nephews and hundreds of wonderful friends. Minnie has resided in Stockbridge over 30 years and is a member of the First Presbyterian Church. A memorial service will be held at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home in Stockbridge on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Shannon O’Leary officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Minnie’s church or SAESA.

Michael P. Smith MS, PhD
Of Chelsea, MI
Formerly of Mattawan, MI

Age 47 died at his cabin on November 19, 2008 in Reed City, Michigan. He was born the son of E. Patrick and Eleanor (Keeshan) Smith on August 30,1961 in Johnson City, New York. As an undergraduate at Cornell University he met Sue Dynan. On April 6, 1985 in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, they were married and she survives. Mike was an outdoorsman that loved to hunt and fish and took great pride passing on his passion of the outdoors to his children. He was the parent that took pictures at his children's sporting events and also of everyone else as well. Mike was also very handy; he could fix anything and even built his own cabin in Reed City. Mike also had a passion for science and higher education as seen by his Masters from Western Michigan University and PhD from the University of Notre Dame. Mike touched everyone he came in contact with and took great pride in being known as "Rudy". He was employed at deCODE Genetics as the Director of Toxicology and was a Founder of Great Lakes Drug Development Company. In addition to his parents and wife Sue Dynan Smith, he is survived by his son Brendan Michael Smith and his daughter Meghan Ariana Smith both of Chelsea. He is also survived by his brothers Ed (Cheryl) Smith of Fairfield, CT; Pat (Debbie) Smith of Cary, NC and Matthew Smith of Woodstock, IL as well as his nieces Emma Grace Smith, Rebecca Lee Smith and Gwendolyn Hope Smith. Mike is also survived by Sue's parents Hal and Jacqueline Dynan. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Sunday, November 23 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. At the request of the family, the funeral and burial for Mike will be private. Expressions of sympathy may be made to a Scholarship for Chelsea High School students in Mike's name and memory.

Jerome T. Fischer
of Grass Lake, Michigan

Age 80, passed away on Thursday, November 20, 2008 at the Chelsea Community Hospital. He was born on June 27, 1928 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of August and Florence (Daigle) Fischer. Jerome had lived in the Grass Lake area for the past 40 years. He was employed at Chrysler Proving Grounds in Chelsea, retiring in 1991. Surviving are three sisters, Mae Rita "Sis" Hathaway of Rochester Hills, Althea "Pat" Fischer of South Lyon, and Kathryn F. (Wilbur) Christopher of Fenton; 20 nieces and nephews; and numerous great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and 4 brothers. Funeral services will be Sunday, November 23, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea. Burial will take place at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Southfield. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the American Cancer Association or the Cascade Humane Society. The family will receive friends the funeral home Sunday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Doris Louise Marshall
of Stockbridge, Michigan

Age 61, died Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at her home. She was born on October 22, 1947 in Standish, MI, the daughter of John R. and Wanda L. (Dunn) McTaggart. On September 6, 1969 she married Robert E. Marshall in Sterling, MI. In addition to her husband she is survived by her mother; her children, Aaron (Jamie Snow) Marshall of Mason and Sarah K. (Dean) Fishel of Tyrone, PA; her grandchildren Brenna and Britt Marshall; her sister-in-law, Beverly McTaggart of Sterling; sister-in-law Elaine (Phil) Fanson; her brother-in-law Dorwin (Rose) Marshall; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her father and her brother, John A. McTaggart. Louise was an EMT for Stockbridge Area Emergency Services Authority (SAESA) and a member of the Millville United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 22, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at the Millville United Methodist Church with Rev. Robert Freysinger officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery in Stockbridge. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home in Stockbridge and also on Saturday at the Millville U. M. Church from 10:00 until the hour of service. Memorial contributions may be made to SAESA.

Richard B. Reid
of Stockbridge

Age 58 passed away at his home on November 17, 2008. He was born the son of Richard M. and Arlene M. (Maas) on January 11, 1950 in Ypsilanti, Michigan. On February 22, 1991 in Toledo, Ohio he married Deborah A. Reid and she preceded him in death on July 10, 2007. Rick loved to listen to baseball games on the radio, he enjoyed playing cards with his friends, he also gave every one nicknames and enjoyed going to the family cottage. He was also a leader on the Emergency Response Team at the Ford Motor Co. Rick is survived by his children Richard B. (Felcia) Reid Jr. of Avon Lake, OH, Christopher Michael (Ashley) Reid of Westland, MI, Amy Denise (Todd) Caldwell of South Lyon, MI, Breanna M. Reid of Stockbridge and John M. Reid of Stockbridge. Also surviving is his sister Denise A. Reid, AZ, along with his grand children Christopher M. Reid Jr., Hailey L. Reid, Austin B. Reid, Melodie P. Reid, Brooklyn J. Reid. In addition to his wife Rick was preceded in death by his parents. A memorial service will be held at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home on Friday at 1:30 p.m. with Fr. Michael A. Petroski officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday form 11:30 to the time of service. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family.

Janice L. Welch
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 71, passed away Saturday November 15, 2008 at Faith Haven Nursing home in Jackson, Michigan, the daughter of Lavern and Rachel (West) Welch. Janice had lived most of her life in Washtenaw County and worked for Michigan Bell (ATT now) for 35 years retiring in 1998. She enjoyed quilting, traveling, and spending time with her three grandson's , John Cameron, Timothy Shoemaker, and Christopher Shoemaker. Also surviving are one daughter Anita (David) Shoemaker of Grass Lake, two sisters Audrey (Marion) Lautermilch of Camden, Michigan and Linda Alder of Grass Lake. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother. Lyle Welch and one brother in law Ivan Alder. Funeral services will be Wednesday November 19, 2008 at 11:00 A.M. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the charity of one's choice. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M.

James (Jim) M. Branham
Of Chelsea, MI

Age 74, passed away November 13, 2008 with his wife and sons by his side. Jim was born August 5, 1934 in Martin, Kentucky. He is survived by his loving wife, Ella of 54 years, and sons, Rodney (Dorothy) Branham of Chelsea, and Joe Branham of Gregory. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Earcie Branham and one brother, Ralph, who passed at the age of 2. Jim had six grandkids, James E., Catherine, Ryan, Barbara, Garrett, and Lynnae, and two great-grandkids, Gavin and Hailey, all of whom loved him very much. Jim retired from Chrysler Proving Grounds in 1991, after 32 years of employment. Jim will be best remembered for his jovial and friendly manner with everyone around the town of Chelsea. No one was a stranger to him! Jim spent about 25 years being Santa Claus to all the kids in Chelsea, and even to some of their kids later on! He was always willing to give his time to all the local businesses, Mott Children’s Hospital, Chelsea Hospital, and the V.A. Hospital in Ann Arbor for the sake of a smile and to make another one happy. Jim spent about 45 years supporting the boy scouts in Chelsea. He was very involved with the Wolverine Council. He was always willing to assist the kids for their merit badges, eagle projects, and board of reviews no matter where or when, even right up to three weeks before his passing. Jim was also a member of the Masonic Lodge #156 in Chelsea, for the past 45 years where he was once the Worshipful Master. Friends will be received at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Sunday from 1-3 and 5-8 p.m. There will be a Masonic Service for Jim at 5:00 p.m. Funeral Services will be on Monday, November 17, 2008 at 1:30 p.m. Contributions in lieu of flowers can be made to Boy Scout Troup 425 of Chelsea.

James R. Jacobs
of Dexter, Michigan

Age 48, passed away November 13, 2008 in the comfort of his home. He was born on February 16, 1960 in Ann Arbor, MI. He married Kimberly S. Risner on June 25, 1983 and she survives. James took much pride in the care of his property, as well as fixing up his home with his wife. He was a manager for Country Market in Dexter for 4 and a half years. In addition to his wife he is survived by his daughters, Amanda Jacobs of Dexter and Sherry Ellison of Nashville, TN, and three grandchildren. Funeral services will be held Monday, November 17, 2008 from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home at 11:00 a.m. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Burial will take place at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family.

Wilford "Jake" Adams
of Pleasant Lake, MI, formerly Munith

Age 93, passed away surrounded by his loving family on November 12, 2008. He was born June 25, 1915 in Camden, MI. Jake loved his family, hunting, fishing, and golfing. He retired from the DNR in 1977 after 17 years of service. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Thelma (Stanfield) Adams; his sons, Robert (Verna) Adams of Norway, MI, James (Patt) Adams of Saline, MI, Duane (Laura) Adams of Chester, AK, Russell (Kathy) Adams of Pleasant Lake, MI; his daughter, Linda (Tim) Snyder of Fowlerville, MI; his sisters, Genevera Altenbernt, Evelyn Altenbernt, and Donna Cagney; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers, one sister, and three granddaughters. A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 15, 2008 at 4:30 p.m. from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home in Stockbridge, MI. Private burial has taken place at Munith Cemetery. Those who wish to make memorial contributions should make them to the Salvation Army Community Pantry in Jackson, MI.

Lawrence W. Hunt

Larry Hunt was born September 25, 1910, the son of Eliphalet and Elenora Hunt. He died on November 7, 2008. He is survived by his brother, Wilson H. Hunt of Valley Park, Missouri and special friends Stan Bidlack, Dave Hoffman, Ann Markovits, and Jack and Friedelle Winans. He also leaves a legion of friends, colleagues, and admirers across the nation who greatly mourn the end of his long and extraordinary life. He served in the Merchant Marine and the U.S. Navy during WWII. He was a master-craftsman, builder and outdoorsman, and an inspiring leader of youth. His intelligence and wealth of knowledge, information and experience were awesome. Those who had the pleasure of his company and the benefit of his talents will ever cherish his memory. As Larry wished, cremation has taken place and there will be no formal services. Special thanks must be given to the many caregivers at Silver Maples and CRC who cared for him over the past several years. Those who would like to express their appreciation of his life are encouraged to contribute to the Forever Woodcraft Foundation, Adirondack Woodcraft Camps, Box 219, Old Forge, New York 13420. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Jacqueline Katherine Schwarzkopf
of Georgia

Age 58, of Lake Breeze Court, Villa Rica, GA died Thursday, November 6, 2008 at Piedmont Hospital following a brief illness. She was born in Jackson County, Michigan on November 22, 1949, the daughter of the late Arthur Richard Wetzel and the late Betty Louise Cowan Wetzel. She served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War and retired from the banking profession where she worked for twenty-five years, making her way to President of the Bank. She had lived in the Atlanta area for seven years after moving from Valparaiso, Indiana. She attended the First United Methodist Church of Villa Rica, was a member of the Red Haute Mamas, (also served as their Queen Mother), spoke as a Children's Voice CASA and was a trainer for CASA volunteers. She served as a board member for the Villa Rica Housing Authority and for the DDA Economics, and was also a member of the SERTOMA Cluba, served as President of the Villa Rica Optomist Club, Vice President of West Lake Home Owner's Association, and worked diligently with the Villa Rica Main Street Promotion Committee. In addition, she was a dedicated wife, mother, homemaker and a 'professional volunteer' for any worthy cause that came along. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Judy Wetzel, and a brother, Bob Wetzel. Survivors include her husband of twenty-three years, Dale Schwarzkopf of Villa Rica; a daugher and son-in law, Katie and Steve Slocum and their children, Alex, Aaron, and Shawn, all of Newton, Massachusetts; two sons and daughters-in-law, David and Dawnn Schwarzkopf of San Antonio, Texas and Christopher and Taylor Schwarzkopf and their daughter Riley, all of Valparaiso, Indiana; two sisters, Jill and Bill Marienfeld of Parma, Michigan; Jan Dryer of Jackson, Michigan; one brother, Rod and Connie Wetzel of Lithia, Florida; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, November 11, 2008, at 1:00 P.M. from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home with Rev. Larry Rubingh officiating. Members of the Red Hautes and Children's Voice CASA will serve as an honorary group. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Children's Voice CASA, 8700 Hospital Drive, 3rd Floor, Douglasville, GA 30134. Interment will follow on Tuesday, November 11, 2008, in Munith, Michigan.

Ian Charles Hughes
Of Chelsea, MI

Age 18, died on November 8, 2008. He was born the son of Paul C. and Arielle C. (Knapp) Hughes on April 16, 1990 in Superior Township, Michigan. Ian attended Chelsea High School before transferring to Ann Arbor, Stone School and had hoped to attend Washtenaw Community College. Ian was a natural athlete and could do any sport with very little effort as shown by his ability to swim on the Varsity Swim team as a freshman. Ian loved to spend time with his family, especially his sister and his twin brother Trevor. He also loved traveling to Florida to visit his grandmother, and he loved all his pets. His favorite saying before he left to go any where was "I love you". He loved his family with all his heart. Ian is survived by his parents, his twin brother, Trevor, sister, Daniele, grandmother, Jean Hughes-Telgen of Brooklyn, grandfather, Paul Brisbois of Guyman, Oklahoma. Also surviving are his aunts and uncles, Bryan (Thomma) Hughes, of Willis, MI, Angela (Herb) Blattenberger, of Whitmore Lake, Robert (Leslie) Hughes, of Tecumseh, Lionel (Christine) Knapp, of France, and his cousins, Simon (Gaille) Knapp, Natalie J. Hughes, Charles R. Blattenberger, and Katherine Hughes. Funeral services will be Thursday from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home at 4:00 p.m. with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 1:00 p.m. until the hour of service. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family.

Anna Rose Ruchika Herter

of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 16, died Saturday, November 8, 2008. She was born on January 20, 1992 in Hyderabad, India, the daughter of Bruce and Sherry (Vogel) Herter. Anna was a Junior at Chelsea High School and worked for Polly's Country Market. Anna was a beautiful girl with a stunning smile and wonderful personality. Surviving is her father, Bruce (Janis) Herter of Honolulu; her mother, Sherry Herter (Larry Kettinger) of Chelsea; three brothers, Chris (Katie) Herter of Stockbridge, Tim Herter and Michael Herter, both of Grass Lake; aunts and uncles, Jeff (Patti) Vogel of North Lake, Bryan (Anita) Herter of Chelsea and Boyce and (Dorothy) Herter of Stockbridge; maternal grandparents, Milo (Lois) Vogel of North Lake; one nephew, Max Herter; and her best friend, Alisha Jozwiak. She is also survived by her friends, Danielle Mafarlan, Heather Owsley, Flora Hay, Chelsea Vincent, Devyn Trester, Amanda Zelinski, Annie VanCooley, Becca Duke, Shayna Warfield, Felicia Strong, and Misty Carpenter. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Leon (Audrey) Herter. Funeral services will be Wednesday, November 12, 2008 at 3:30 p.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea with Rev. Douglas Hartley from the Salem Lutheran Church officiating. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Americans for International Aid and Adoption. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

Todd Brent Lee
of Scottsdale, Arizona

Age 49, passed away at his home on October 25, 2008. He was born on October 13, 1959 the son of Wilbur and Donna (Pickell) Lee. He graduated from Stockbridge High School in 1978, and had lived in Scottsdale, AZ for the past 14 years, moving from Gregory. On March 5, 1988 he married Connie Stephens, and she survives. He is also survived by his mother, of Whitefish, MT, one sister Dawn (Mark) Gregory, also of Whitefish, MT, 16 nieces and nephews, his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Ima Jean (Velton) Stephens, of Munith; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Richard (Laura) Stephens of Texas, Velton Jr. (Susie) Stephens, Sondra (Pat) Clark, Margie (Dan) Clark, all of Munith, and Carrie (Billy Jr.) Heeney of Stockbridge. He was preceded in death by his father, two nephews Brian Heeney, and Brad Clark. A graveside service will be held on Friday, December 19, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at Oaklawn Cemetery in Stockbridge. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Stockbridge Presbyterian Church. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Ronald Kolter Ziegler
October 12, 1942 -November 4, 2008

Ron died suddenly on November 4th in an accident working on land near his Lima Township home. Ron is survived by his wife, Caren (Como), his daughters Amy (Bill) Lamb of Chelsea, Dr. Charlotte (Colby) Skelton of Saint Paul, Minnesota, and Meghann (Michael) Zellen of Los Angeles, granddaughters Madeleine, MacKenna, and Molly Lamb of Chelsea, and sister Jane (Joe) Ringer of Deephaven, Minnesota. Born on October 12, 1942 to Jake and Claudine (Jones) Ziegler in Flint, Michigan, Ron graduated from Bentley High School. He attended the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, completed his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering in 1965, and later earned a Professional Engineer license. In college, Ron met the love of his life, Caren, and they were married in 1964. They have lived in Chelsea since 1974, save for three years spent working in Saudi Arabia and exploring the world with their young family. Ron retired in 2006 from the Chelsea Proving Grounds. Ron did everything with limitless enthusiasm and passion. He never did anything half-way, he never sat around waiting for life to happen to him. Even in retirement, Ron worked tirelessly. He tackled projects for family and friends, and still made time for motorcycles, horses, bird-hunting, and training his beloved dog, Chloe. On the day he died, Ron and Chloe were enjoying a beautiful Indian Summer afternoon cutting wood on a nearby farm. Ron also had made plans for a motorcycle ride with friends and a family dinner party later that evening. This day was like so many others, symbolic of the mix of hobbies, friends, and loved ones that made up his life. Funeral services will be Saturday, November 8, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Ron will be remembered as a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the March of Dimes.

Kevin Allen
of Pleasant Lake, Michigan

Age 44, passed away at his home on November 1, 2008. He was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan on November 28, 1963. Kevin enjoyed being with friends, family, and his two children. He also liked having a good time while playing his guitar. Kevin is survived by his mother Jean (Fletcher) Minix of Pleasant Lake, father Howard Allen, of Pleasant Lake, daughters Amber Dumond and Alana Raye Allen, as well as his brother Kim (Patti) Allen of Jackson. Funeral services will be Wednesday, November 5, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Pastor Brian Johnson officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 11:00 until the hour of service. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family.

Forrest W. Leasure
Of Georgetown, SC

Age 71, passed away Saturday, November 1, 2008 at his residence with his family at his side. He was born on December 15, 1936 in Columbus, OH, the son of Alfred and Ida Mae (Froelich) Leasure. Forrest lived in Georgetown for the past 15 years, coming from Lansing, MI. He was the Division Manager for the Coca Cola Bottling Company serving the Columbus, Lansing, and Jackson areas for 35 years. He truly loved his family, drag racing, street rods, salt-water fishing, and traveling with his wife, Linda. He served in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War and was honorably discharged on January 25, 1957. On June 14, 1975 he married Linda M. DeYarmond in Brooklyn, MI and she survives him. Also surviving are three daughters, Kim (David) Lambert of Georgetown, Karen (Russell) Bratcher of Georgetown, and Jeri Sue Leasure of San Diego; one brother, Norbert (Sandra) Leasure and one sister, Karen Arms, both of Ohio; three grandchildren, Amy Lambert, Russell Bratcher, and Olivia (Michael) Atkinson. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Delbert Leasure, and two sisters, Lillian Winger and JoAnn Leasure. Funeral services will be held Friday, November 7, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge, MI with Rev. Larry Rubingh officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Burial will follow at Fitchburg Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Fitchburg Cemetery Association.

Kenneth R. Kunzelman
of Albion, Michigan

Age 55, passed away Sunday, November 2, 2008 at the Tender Care nursing facility. He was born on July 22, 1953 in Jackson the son of Dwight Sr. and Norma (Geisch) Kunzelman. Ken graduated from Stockbride High School in 1971. He enjoyed model cars and was a self employed painter for several years. Surviving are two children, Z. Lynn (Kris) Kane of North Caroline and Michael Kunzelman of Jackson, the children’s mother Zandra Kunzelman of Jackson. One sister, Pamela (Richard) Burton of Rives Junction and one sister in law Alice Kunzelman of South Dakota. One grandchild, Madilyn Stevens as well as two and nephews, also his step mother Jane Kunzelman of Munith. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother Dwight ’Buddy’ Kunzelman Jr. Funeral services will be Thursday, November 6, 2008 at 11:00 A.M. from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge with Rev. Larry Rubingh officiating. Burial will follow at Munith Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Christ Centered Homes. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Thursday from 10:00 A. M. until the time of service.

Marian Ruth Collier
Of Stockbridge, Michigan

Age 93, passed away Friday, October 31, 2008 at the Chelsea Community Hospital. She was born on January 9, 1915 in Waterloo Township the daughter of Herbert and Ardie (Hubbard) Collins. Marian was a faithful member of the Stockbridge Presbyterian Church for 80 years. She served as the organist, choir director, choir member and was active in Sunday School, youth activities and the Women's Club. Music played a large part in her life. She taught piano lessons for many years to the young people of the area. She graduated from Stockbridge High School in 1932, not leaving her fond hometown. Marian will be missed by "the ladies," her wonderful care givers for a long time. On November 7, 1936 she married Wayne A. Collier, and together they shared their lives for 66 years. Wayne preceded her in death on November 6, 2002. Surviving are three children, Dennis (Kay) Collier of Lake Wylie, South Carolina, Diane (Jim) Gesler of Crystal Lake, Ill., and Deborah Collier of Carbondale, Colorado; ten grandchildren Michael (Gail), Gregory (Joanne), Geoffrey (Janis), Andrew (Angela) Collier, Michael (Danette) Gesler, Lisa (Jerry) Hasse, Sara (Eric) Prather, Nathan (Leah) Gesler, Jenee Gesler, and Claire Collier; and 14 great-grandchildren as well; her sisters-in-law, Grace Collins and Norine Collins, also several nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was also preceded in death by three brothers, David, Loren and Jack Collins, one sister, Phyillis Collins, and her sister-in-law, Margaret Collins. Funeral services will be Wednesday, November 5, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge with Rev. Michael A. Gesler officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery, Stockbridge. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Stockbridge Presbyterian Church or S.A.E.S.A. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.