(Photos are only available in the paper edition for obituaries in this section which indicate a photo is available.)

​January 4, 2006

Mikey “Mike” Wheeler
Mikey “Mike” Wheeler, 49, of Albion, died Wednesday, December 28, 2005, at his home. 
He was born June 30, 1956, in Marshall, to Lester and Geraldine (Perkins) Wheeler. 
He married Wendy Prescott August 8, 1996, and she survives.
Mr. Wheeler was a commercial painter and also worked for Triple A Galvanizing in Hamilton, Indiana, and Vestal Industries in Angola, Indiana. 
He enjoyed building, craft working, fishing, restoring furniture and woodworking.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Wheeler is survived by three daughters, Tracy Miller of Tekonsha, Jodie Miller of Homer and Tammy Vanderpool of Albion; a son, Christopher Miller of Battle Creek; his mother, Geraldine Wheeler of West Liberty, Kentucky; a grandmother, Cora Perkins of Homer; a sister, Brenda Gabbart of Mt. Sterling, Kentucky; four brothers, Bill Wheeler of Woods Bend, Kentucky, Lester Wheeler of West Liberty, Kentucky, Robert Beckley of Muskegon, and James Beckley of West Liberty, Kentucky; several aunts and uncles; and seven grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his father.
​A funeral service was held Saturday, December 31, at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, Albion, with Pastor Abe Prater officiating. Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the family.

January 11, 2006

Daniel W. Freeman
Daniel W. Freeman, 89, of Rising Sun, Maryland, died January 1, 2006, in Elsmere, Delaware.
He was born November 3, 1916, in Marshall, to John and Agnes (Piper) Freeman. 
He married Ethel Kenyon, and she survives.
Mr. Freeman served in the U.S. Army during WWII.
He owned Freeman Hardware in Marshall and Homer for many years. He retired and worked for Irvin’s Hardware in Homer for several years.
Mr. Freeman enjoyed playing the trombone in Marshall and Albion city bands.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by a son, John E. (Beth) Freeman of Rising Sun, Maryland; a sister, Grace Moushey of Evansville, Wisconsin; four grandchildren, Anthony J. Freeman and Nathan Freeman, both of Homer, and Daniel W. Freeman and Emily K. Freeman, both of Rising Sun, Maryland.
Graveside services with military honors were held Thursday, January 5, at Lyon Lake Cemetery, Marshall, with Dr. James Troust officiating the services.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association. 
Funeral arrangements were handled by Putnam Funeral Home, Tekonsha. 
Online messages may be left a the funeral home’s website, www.putnamfuneralhome.com. 

Richard W. “Mort” Kline
Richard W. “Mort” Kline, 79, formerly of Litchfield, died Saturday, January 7, 2006, at Battle Creek Health Systems.
He was born February 26, 1926, in Homer, to Ralph and Rena (Porcupile) Kline. He attended Litchfield High School.
Mr. Kline owned and operated Kline Multi-Wood Products in Litchfield. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict and belonged to the Homer VFW.
He is survived by three sisters, Mildred (Loyd) Wiser of Marshall, Lulubelle (John) Allbright of Allen, and Flossie Kline of Battle Creek; a brother, Ray (Elsie) Kline of Allen; and nieces and nephews.
Mr. Kline was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Lawrence and Virgil Kline.
Funeral services will be today (Wednesday) at 11 a.m. at the George White Funeral Home, Litchfield, with the Reverend Clyde Wonders officiating. Interment will follow in Mount Hope Cemetery, Litchfield. Visitation was held Tuesday from 6-8 p.m.

January 18, 2006

Donald Ray Davis
Donald Ray Davis, 53, of Jackson, died Tuesday, January 10, 2006, under the loving care of his family and Hospice.
Mr. Davis was born May 6, 1952, in Detroit.
He enjoyed car shows, watching the Detroit Lions, working on his ‘71 Dodge Charger, and spending time with family and friends.
He is survived by Mary, his wife of 30 years; three daughters, Heather (Ben) Hurst, Lori Murphy and Regina (Dorie) Fobbs, all of Ohio; a son, Donald (Brandy) David II of Jackson; three brothers, Chris (Patty) Davis of Lansing, Mark (Trudie) Davis of Leslie and Johnny (Neatria) Bolin of Stockbridge; three sisters, Diane (Dean) Daglow of Homer, Brenda (Rick) Smith and Cathy (Daryl) Wood, both of Leslie; 12 grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Mr. Davis was preceded in death by his mother, Catherine (Kelly) Gibson; his father, Curtis Davis Jr.; a brother, Robert Davis; and a nephew, Curtis Davis.
Services were held Friday, January 13, at the Charles J. Burden and Son Funeral Home in Jackson. Burial followed at Roseland Memory Gardens. 
Those who wish may direct contributions to Great Lakes Hospice.

Charleen Kellogg
Charleen Kellogg, 63, of Albion, died Wednesday, January 11, 2006, at Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall. 
She was born September 8, 1942, in Albion, to Michael and Dorothy (Hale) Kellogg. 
Ms. Kellogg enjoyed playing bingo, fishing, mushroom hunting and word search puzzles. She also liked animals and children, and they liked her. 
She is survived by a sister, Shirley Culver of Albion; an uncle, Robert Hale of Woodbine, Georgia; a nephew, Robert (Cindy) Culver of Albion; and a grand niece, Helen Culver of Albion.
Ms. Kellogg was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Dale Kellogg.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. 
Memorial contributions are suggested to Calhoun County Humane Society.
Arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, Albion.

Vyola Collins
Vyola M. Collins, 88, of Litchfield, formerly of Homer, died Thursday, January 12, 2006, at Litchfield Nursing Care Centre in Litchfield. 
She was born May 8, 1917, in Bluffton, Ohio, to Charles Duncan and Martha Mae (Dabler) Hunt. 
She married Joseph William Collins December 25, 1942, in Homer. He preceded her in death December 9, 1983.
Mrs. Collins was formerly of Homer since the early 1950s. She was a nurse’s aide for various foster care homes in the Homer area. She was a talented musician who played the violin and piano. She enjoyed cooking and watching people.
Mrs. Collins is survived by two daughters, Sharon (Claude) Shepherd of Clarksburg, Ohio, and Emily (Richard) Wheaton of Homer; a son, Joseph (Virginia) Collins of Litchfield; eight grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and a brother, Calvin Dean Hunt of Savannah, Ohio.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a son, David W. Collins; a great-granddaughter, Cynthia Hawk; and three brothers, William H. Hunt, Charles M. Hunt and Henry L. Hunt.
A funeral service was held Monday, January 16, at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, with the Rev. Larry Fulton officiating.
Burial followed at Fairview Cemetery in Homer Township.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Litchfield Nursing Care Centre, 527 Marshall Street, Litchfield, MI 49252.

January 25, 2006

Mae E. Ziegler
Mae E. Ziegler, 85, of Litchfield Township, died Wednesday, January 18, 2006, at the McGuire Skilled Nursing Facility, Hillsdale.  
She was born August 7, 1920, in Flat Rock, to Robert and Clara (Schaefer) Oestrike and graduated from Flat Rock High School.
She married Vernon Ziegler in 1938, and he preceded her in death in 1977.  
After raising her family, Mrs. Ziegler worked at the Tip-Off, which later became the Print ‘N Post, in Litchfield.  
She belonged to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Hillsdale, where she taught Sunday school and children’s Bible classes for more than 40 years. Mrs. Ziegler was an avid reader of old classic books and enjoyed gardening and cooking.   
She is survived by three daughters, Carol Sue (George) Hawkes of Litchfield, and Mary Lee Ziegler and Patricia Ziegler, both of Jonesville; two sons, Gary R. Ziegler of Litchfield and Glen (Charlette) Ziegler of Hillsdale; a sister, Bertha Farmer of Manton; a brother, Ernest Oestrike of Gibraltar; 11 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and special friends of the family, Robert Patterson of Quincy, and Hoan and Lien Doan and children of Jackson.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Kurt, a grandson, four brothers and two sisters. 
Funeral services were held Saturday, January 21, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Hills-dale, with Pastor Dan Johnson officiating. Interment followed in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Litchfield. 
Arrangements were handled by the George White Funeral Home, Litchfield. Memorials to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church would be appreciated. 

Christiana “Chris” Wagoner
Christiana “Chris” Wagoner, 87, of Marshall, died Saturday, January 21, 2006, at home surrounded by family and loved ones. She was born August 11, 1918, in Albion, to Julius Karl and Emma Matilda (Kopp) Nass. She graduated from Albion High School and attended Kellogg Community College.
She married Russell Wagoner, and he preceded her in death.
Mrs. Wagoner worked for Calhoun Mental Health Department. She enjoyed volunteer work and received an award in 1989 for Michigan Senior Citizen of the Year. Her volunteer efforts included the American Cancer Society, domestic violence and abuse advocacy, community advisory board membership, Calhoun County Literacy, the Easter Seal Society, and she was a board member of Homer Community Foundation. She was a strong advocate of senior citizens and worked many years with the Foster Grandparent program.
Mrs. Wagoner had been a member of St. James Episcopal Church since 1925. She was an avid reader and enjoyed professional clowning and especially enjoyed crossword puzzles.
She is survived by two daughters, Susan (John) Dogan of Coldwater, Dee (Fred) Heisler of Olivet; a son, Craig Wagoner of Albion; grandchildren, Lee McNary, Jay and Mary Dogan, Sherrie Case, Mike, Tammy, Brian and Brett Heisler and Jennifer Greenman; and eight great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by seven brothers and sisters.
A memorial service will be held today (Wednesday) at 11 a.m. at St. James Episcopal Church, Albion, with Father Edward Scully officiating. Interment will follow in St. James columbarium.
Visitation was Tuesday from 5-8 p.m. at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, Albion.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Lifespan of Battle Creek.

Freeman H. “Bud” Ivey
Freeman H. “Bud” Ivey, 79, of Marshall, and formerly of Homer, died Monday, January 23, 2006, at Tendercare of Marshall. 
Funeral services will be  Thursday, January 26, at 11 a.m. at Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home in Marshall. Visitation is Wednesday from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m., with the family present from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.
A complete obituary will appear in next week’s Index.

February 1, 2006

Freeman H. “Bud” Ivey
Freeman H. “Bud” Ivey, 79, of Marshall, died Monday morning, January 23, 2006, at Tendercare of Marshall in the love and care of his family.
He was born September 23, 1926, in Tekonsha, to Vernon Reedy and Dorothy Bernice (Palmer) Ivey. He graduated from Tekonsha High School in 1944, and enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving during WWII.
Mr. Ivey married Gloria M. Jenkins June 9, 1945, in Coldwater, and she survives.
After he was honorably discharged from the Navy, he and his wife moved to Battle Creek. Mr. Ivey worked at the Ritzee Restaurant in downtown Battle Creek, and for a short time at Kellogg Company. After his return from WWII, they moved back to Tekonsha in the late 1940s and he had a milk route for Hitchcock Dairy of Union City in the Burlington-Union City area.
Mr. Ivey and his family moved to Homer in 1951, where he owned and operated the Texaco Station, and later the Standard Oil Station. He worked as a part-time deputy with the Calhoun County Sheriff Depart-ment. The Iveys lived in Homer until moving to Marshall in 1994.
He sold his service station in the early 1960s and became a full-time deputy sheriff in Calhoun County. He worked at the Albion Police Department in 1964, becoming a Detective Sergeant before returning to the Calhoun County Sheriff Department to serve as Undersheriff to Sheriff Roger Dean. He joined the Jackson County Sheriff Depart-ment in 1979, retiring in 1990. After retiring, Mr. Ivey performed lawncare for Starr Common-wealth from 1992 to 2004.
Mr. Ivey was a member of the Marshall Exchange Club, and a Life Member of the Carrick-Jarosz Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #9411 of Homer. He was a former member of Homer First Presbyterian Church.
He was very active in Masonic organizations, and was a life member of Humanity Lodge #29 in Homer, serving as Master in 1963. He was honored Mason of the Year in 1988. He was a Life Member of Homer Chapter #130 Royal Arch Masons, serving as High Priest in 1964. He served as their treasurer for many years.
Mr. Ivey was a Life Member of Marshall Commandery #17, Knights Templar, serving as Commander in 1969. He earned the Grand Commanders Service Award in 1981, and served many years as Standard Bearer. He was a Life Member of Hiram Council #14, Royal and Select Masons serving as Illustrious Master in 1972. He was a Life Member of Stella Chapter #140 Order of the Eastern Star. He was a member of Jackson York Rite College #3, serving as Deputy Grand Governor from 1989 to 1992, and was its current secretary. He was a member of Michigan Priory #22 KYCH and the York Rite Sovereign College of North America, earning the Order of the Purple Cross.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Ivey is survived by three sons, Douglas (Paula) Ivey and Ronald (Becky) Ivey, both of Marshall, and Michael “Mickey” (Brenda) Ivey of Aurora, Colorado; four grandchildren; two great-granddaughters; a brother, Terry Ivey of Marshall; a sister, Mary Ivey, and stepmother, Bessie Ivey, both of Ceresco; and nieces and nephews. 
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A Masonic Memorial Service was held Wednesday, January 25, at Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home. Funeral services were held Thursday at the funeral home with the Rev. Walt Nichols of East Eckford Community Church officiating. Interment followed in Riverside Cemetery in Tekonsha, with military honors by Carrick-Jarosz VFW Post #9411. 
Friends who wish may make memorial contributions to Marshall Mobile Meals or Starr Commonwealth. Assistance with memorials is available at Kempf Funeral Home.

Dr. R. Bruce Curry, D.D.S.
Dr. R. Bruce Curry, D.D.S., 61, of Eaton Rapids, died Saturday, January 28, 2006, in Charlotte. 
He was born June 1, 1944, in Chico, California, to Robert Kingdon and Winifred (Cobleigh) Curry. 
Dr. Curry was a graduate of Homer High School, Class of 1962, a graduate of the Universi-ty of Michigan, College of Dentistry, and a member of the U of M Alumni Association. He served as a Captain in the U.S. Army in Vietnam. 
Dr. Curry practiced dentistry in Eaton Rapids for 33 years and was a member of both the Michigan and American Dental Associations. He was president of the Eaton Rapids Rotary Club twice, and past president of the Eaton Rapids Community Hospital Board, an avid golfer and a member of the Duck Lake Country Club. 
He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Janice A. (Camburn) Curry; two sons, Scott Andrew Curry of Holland and William Robert (Regan) Curry of Galloway, Ohio; two grandchildren, Madison Rachel and Grant Douglas Curry; two brothers, Charles Curry of Oke-mos, David (Terri) Curry of San Jose, California; a sister, Carolyn (Don) Larsen of Calgary, Alberta; and numerous nieces and nephews. 
The family received friends on Tuesday, January 31, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids, with cremation to follow. 
A memorial service will be held Saturday at 10 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church, Eaton Rapids. 
Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Eaton Community Hospice, the Eaton Rapids Medical Center or Sparrow Cancer Center. (w/photo)

February 8, 2006

Doris Kuhn
Doris Kuhn, died Sunday, February 5, 2006.
Mrs. Kuhn is survived  two sons, Carl and Jeffrey, and a daughter Linda; six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
According to her wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held Wednesday, February 8,  at 1 p.m. at Homer United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Mark Mitchell officiating. 
The family will receive friends at the Homer United Methodist Church Wednesday from noon to 1 p.m.
Assistance with memorial contributions to the Litchfield Library can be made at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels.

John W. Swan
John W. Swan, 76, of Homer, died Sunday, February 5, 2006, at Select Specialty Hospital in Battle Creek.
Mr. Swan was born April 13, 1929, in Sheridan Township to Leo and Mary Etta (Tucker) Swan. He married Barbara Ann Nichols June 16, 1951. She survives.
Mr. Swan worked at various factories and spent more than 30 years at Calhoun Foundry in Homer. He was a member of St. Joe Baptist Church.
Mr. Swan enjoyed bowling, snowmobiling, camping, watching the news, The Price is Right and Wheel of Fortune. He especially enjoyed spending time with his buddy Nick.
Funeral services will be Wednesday, February 8, at 2 p.m. at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, with the Rev. David Nichols officiating.
Burial will be in West Clarendon Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the American Lung Association.

February 15, 2006

John Swan
John W. Swan, 76, of Homer, died Sunday, February 5, 2006, at Select Specialty Hospital in Battle Creek.
Mr. Swan was born April 13, 1929, in Sheridan Township, to Leo and Mary Etta (Tucker) Swan. He married Barbara Ann Nichols June 16, 1951. She survives.
Mr. Swan worked at various factories and spent more than 30 years at Calhoun Foundry in Homer, retiring August 1, 1992. He was a member of St. Joe Baptist Church, where he was a deacon for several years.
He enjoyed bowling, snowmobiling, camping, watching the news, “The Price is Right” and “Wheel of Fortune.” He especially enjoyed spending time with his buddy Nick.
In addition to his wife of 54 years, Mr. Swan is survived by a daughter, Marsha Persails of Coldwater; four sons, Robert (Peggie) Swan of Burlington, David (Bonnie) Swan of Tekonsha, Richard (Dawn) Swan of Jonesville and Douglas Swan of Homer; a daughter-in-law, Carlean Swan of Coldwater; 18 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; a brother, George (JoAnn) Swan Sr. of Marshall; four sisters, Mary (Aldin) Tesch of Litchfield, Evelyn McRae of Quincy, Jeanette (Art) Wilkinson of Quincy and Eleanor Benjamin of Coldwater.  
He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, John Swan Jr.; two sisters, Clara Mae Eagen and Juanita Maurer; and two brothers Baby Charles Swan and Leo Swan Jr.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, February 8, at 2 p.m. at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, with the Rev. David Nichols officiating. 
Burial was in West Clarendon Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association. (w/photo)

Jean Diane Heckel
Jean Diane Heckel, 56, of Litchfield, died Wednesday, February 8, 2006, at Arbor Manor in Spring Arbor.  
She was born January 5, 1950 in Hillsdale, to Leonard and Alma Lucille (Lambertson) Heckel.  
Ms. Heckel graduated from Litchfield High School in 1968 and Central Michigan University in 1972 where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Physical Education and History. She was employed at Hi-Lex Controls, Litchfield. 
She collected Cherished Teddies and loved camping and traveling, especially trips to Disney World and Sea World. She adored her nieces and nephews and attended all their sporting events. She also enjoyed taking pictures of her family, Christmas shopping, and collecting pop cans for her nieces and nephews to earn money for trips to Disney World. In keeping with her physical education interests, she walked laps at Hi-Lex and had logged nearly 1,500 miles in the past five years.  
Ms. Heckel will be sadly missed by her brothers and sisters: James (Rebecca) Heckel of Jonesville, David (Vicki) Heckel of Jonesville, Roger (Bonnie) Heckel of Bluffton, Indiana, and Lisa (Rob) Wheeler of Litchfield; and several nieces and nephews.
Her parents preceded her in death. 
Funeral services were held Saturday, February 11, at the George White Funeral Home, Litchfield, with interment in Mount Hope Cemetery.   
Her family would appreciate memorials to Hospice of Oak-lawn and Jackson, or the American Cancer Society.

Frederick G. Grear
Frederick G. Grear, 61, of Litchfield Township, died Wednesday, February 8, 2006, at the Community Health Center of Branch County in Coldwater.  
He was born May 31, 1944, in Hillsdale, to Glenn and Elfrieda (Engelhardt) Hartnagel.
Mr. Grear graduated from Litchfield High School in 1963 and from Michigan State University in 1970.  He married April Lynn Edwards May 16, 1970, and she survives.
A former employee of Hillsdale Tool & Machine Co., Mr. Grear had also been a longtime area farmer.  He was a member and trustee of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Hillsdale, and belonged to the Litchfield Farmer’s Club. 
In addition to his wife, he is survived by a son, John (Lisa) Grear of Allen; a sister, Dora Hartnagel of Hillsdale; and a grandson, Andrew Abright.
He was preceded in death by his father, Glenn Hartnagel. 
Funeral services were held Monday at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Hillsdale, with Pastor Dan Johnson officiating.  Interment in St. Paul’s Cemetery followed. 
Arrangements were handled by George White Funeral Home, Litchfield.  
Memorials are suggested to Lutheran World Relief, St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, or Victory Junction Gang Camp.

February 22, 2006

Sterling F. Rigelman
Sterling F. Rigelman, 89, of Albion, died Sunday, February 19, 2006, at Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall.
Mr. Rigelman was born September 25, 1916, in Williams County, Ohio, to James and Edna (Miller) Rigelman. He married Rosie Anna Burger, who preceded him in death in 1968.
Mr. Rigelman was a lathe operator for Simpson’s Industry - now Metaldyne - in Litchfield for several years. He was also a coal miner at one time. He enjoyed woodworking, gardening and fishing.
Survivors include a sister, Juanita Smith of Indiana; a niece, Sue Rumsey of Indiana; and a great-niece.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by a brother, Clarence Rigelman.
Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Thursday, February 23, at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion. 
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home, with the Rev. Bob Doner officiating.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Tendercare of Albion’s activities fund. 

March 1, 2006

Howard A. Messick
Howard A. Messick, 89, of Albion, died Sunday, February 26, 2006, at Oaklawn Hospital. 
He was born May 14, 1916, in Niles, to Ross A. and Emily (Stewart) Messick. 
Mr. Messick served in the U.S. Army during WWII as a Staff Sergeant in the 42nd Heavy Weapons Division. 
He married Ardith Cleveland May 21, 1939; she preceded him in death in 1989. 
Mr. Messick was a bank manager for City Bank and Trust for more than 40 years, retiring in 1977. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Albion, Rotary, and the American Legion post for 60 years. He was a local Albion and Homer historian, active in city and community affairs, and was an avid photographer.
He is survived by two daughters, Sheryl Gardanier of Albion and Phyllis White of Hesperia; seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. 
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents and an infant sister. 
A memorial service will be held Thursday, March 2, at 11 a.m., at First Baptist Church, Albion, with Pastor Dennis Dickson officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service from 10-11 a.m. at the church. 
Memorial contributions are suggested to First Baptist Church of Albion or Albion Historical Society. Arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, Albion.

Rev. Keith A. Morrow
Rev. Keith A Morrow, 83, of Wooster, Ohio, died Friday, February 24, 2006, at Wooster Community Hospital. 
He was born July 23, 1922, in Batavia, New York, to James S. and Ruth Spaulding Morrow.  
Rev. Morrow married Alice Walter September 12, 1953. She survives.  
He graduated from high school in Wyoming, New York; attended the University of Alabama for one semester and then worked as a draftsman for Glenn L. Martin in Baltimore, Maryland, until late 1943.  
During WW II he served in the U. S. Navy (SACO) in Chungking and Shanghai, China, as an Electronic Technician’s Mate. After the war he returned to the University of Alabama to complete a degree in industrial engineering. While at Alabama, he was elected to the Freshman Honorary Society Phi Eta Sigma and in his junior year was elected to Tau Beta Pi, the National Honorary Engineering Society.
He worked as an industrial engineer for Sylvania Electric in Seneca Falls, New York, from 1949 to 1960. In 1960 he entered the Louisville Presbyterian Seminary where he earned his Masters of Divinity.  During that time, he served as a student pastor at Paint Lick, Kentucky.  From 1963 to 1984, he served pastorates in Palmyra/Holloway, Buchanan and Homer. While in Michigan he served in a number of positions in Presbytery and Synod, including Moderator of the Synod of Michigan, Member and Chairperson of the Michigan Commission for Ministries in Higher Education, and the Organizing Commission of the Synod of the Covenant. 
For many years, he served as Summer Pulpit Supply for the Western Adirondack Presbyterian Church in Cranberry Lake, New York. He later served as interim minister at Wayne Presbyterian Church, Wooster. 
In Buchanan he was a member and served as chairperson of the Buchanan City Planning Commission.  He was a 30 plus year member of Lions Clubs International, most recently with the Wooster Noon Lions. In 2001 he earned the prestigious Melvin Jones Fellowship from the Lions Club International Foundation.  
After retiring in 1984, he and his wife established a residence in Wooster and then spent 14 years traveling throughout the United States in their RV. During this time, they also spent their winters in the desert southwest of Phoenix, Arizona, and their summers at their cabin at Cranberry Lake, New York.  
In addition to his wife, Rev. Morrow is survived by a son, John Eric (Lou Ann) Morrow of New Port Ritchey, Florida; two daughters, Carol (George) Beaman of Niles, and Linda (Frank) Gilbert of Fredericks-burg, Ohio; grandchildren, Michael (Andrea) Morrow, Andrew and Brent Morrow, Jared and Matthew Beaman-Withers, Michaelle Beaman-DeVeese, Ben (Luella), Ryan (London) and Rebecca Gilbert; great grandchildren Madison Morrow, Nicholas Mangione, Jenna, Jaymes and Tyler Gilbert and Jayson Deeds; several nieces and a nephew and their families.  
He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, J. Wayne Morrow and Page Morrow; and sister, Martha “Mitsi” Stone-Churchill.
A memorial service will be held at the First Presbyterian Church of Wooster, 621 College Avenue, Wooster, Ohio, Friday, March 3, at 3 p.m.  Friends may call Thursday from 5 until 8 p.m. at the Roberts Funeral Home, 7067 Cleveland Road, Wooster, Ohio. Online tributes may be made at www.robertsfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Wayne County, 2525 Back Orrville Road, Wooster, OH, 44691, or the Viola Startzman Free Clinic, 1874 Cleveland Road, Wooster, Ohio. (w/photo)

March 8, 2006

Adis “Bud” Marshall
Adis “Bud” Marshall, 69, of Homer, died Wednesday, March 1, 2006, surrounded by his loving family at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo.
He was born October 16, 1936, in Salyersville, Kentucky, to Albert and Goldie May (Blair) Marshall. 
He married Barbara Jean Truax January 30, 1965. They were married for 38 years before her death in 2003. 
Mr. Marshall worked as a lift truck operator at Hayes-Albion for 32-1/2 years until retiring in 1988. He attended First Baptist Church of Tekonsha. 
Known as “Papa Bubbles” over the CB airwaves, Mr. Marshall enjoyed yard work, loved his family and was known for his big heart and sweet nature.
He is survived by a daughter, Laurrie (John) Talbert of Burlington; a stepson, Billy Ray Brown of Quincy; five sisters, Mournie Porter of Albion, Hazel Combs of Coldwater, Corlee “Candy” May of Ohio, Rosie Lee of Florida and Chris Zavier of Tennessee; two brothers, Albert Marshall, Jr., of Charlotte, and Cletus Marshall of Ohio; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Marshall was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Mickie; and a sister, Ethel Bennett.
Funeral services were held Saturday, March 4, at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, Albion, with Pastor Ken Wilcox officiating. Interment followed at Albion Memory Gardens. 
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Heart Association.

Judy Lee Swafford
Judy Lee Swafford, 54, of Homer, died Wednesday, February 15, 2006, at Oaklawn Hospital. 
She was born April 29, 1951, in Marshall, to George E. and Ella Louise (Kenyon) Swafford. Ms. Swafford was employed at one time with the State of Michigan, Department of Social Services in Ann Arbor. 
She enjoyed embroidery, puzzle books, handcrafts and the outdoors. 
She is survived by her mother, Ella Louise Swafford of Homer; two brothers, Ernest Swafford and Steven (Laurie) Swafford, both of Homer; a grandmother, Lillian Vincent of Tekonsha; two nieces; three nephews; and several aunts and uncles.
She was preceded in death by her father, George E. Swafford. 
A graveside service was held Friday, February 17, at 1 p.m. at West Clarendon Cemetery, with Pastor Richard Doran officiating. There was no visitation. 
Memorial contributions are suggested to the donor’s choice. Arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, Albion.

March 15, 2006

Andrea R. Craven
Andrea R. Craven, 66, of Homer, died Saturday, March 4, 2006, at South Florida Baptist Hospital, Plant City, Florida.
She was born February 15, 1940, in Albion, to A.J. and Dorothy (Andrews) Rising. 
She married Charles L. Craven December 11, 1960, and he survives.
Mrs. Craven was the secretary for Homer Public Schools for 30 years, retiring in 1998. She attended the Methodist Church in Homer. She enjoyed fishing, especially for salmon at the Soo and Rice Lake, traveling, camping and watching the wildlife in her backyard. She also enjoyed eating out with friends, shopping, cooking, baking and flower gardening. Above all, Mrs. Craven loved her family.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by a daughter, Jennifer Kuhn of Homer; two sons, John Craven of Marshall and Brian Craven of New Orleans, Louisiana; two sisters-in-law, Shirley Mees of Marshall and Joyce Cooper of Missouri; a brother-in-law, Robert Craven of Homer; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Barbara Craven.
A funeral service was held Thursday, March 9, at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, Albion, with Pastor Mark Mitchell officiating. Interment followed in Fisher Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Homer Area Community Foundation. 

Hunter Paul Hale
Hunter Paul Hale, 3 month old son of Tina Joy Miller and Kenneth V. Hale, of Litchfield, died Thursday, March 9, 2006, at home. He was born December 8, 2005 in Hillsdale. 
In addition to his parents, Hunter is survived by a brother, Kenton Hale, at home; grandparents, Troy and Heather Hewitt of Coldwater, Robert and Stacey Miller of Jackson, Barbara Hale of Jackson, and Rolland and Becky Hale of Litchfield; great-grandparents, Stan and Helen Miller of Concord, John and Joyce Bell of Allen, Beverly Bell Coldwater, and Florence McVicker of Jonesville. 
Funeral services were held Saturday, March 11, at the George White Funeral Home, Litchfield, with Reverend Alan Fenstermaker officiating. 
Interment followed in Mount Hope Cemetery, Litchfield. 

Bessie B. Smith
Bessie B. Smith, 93, of Orange City, Florida, formerly of Homer, died February 18, 2006, at Orange City Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, DeBary, Florida.
She was born March 24, 1912, in Jerome.
Mrs. Smith moved to Orange City from Homer in 2001. 
She was a bookkeeper in the Volusia/Flager area.
Mrs. Smith is survived by a son, Dan Smith of Orange City; six grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements were handled by Allen Summerhill Funeral Homes, Inc. of Daytona Beach, Florida.

March 22, 2006

Gilbert K. Butters
Gilbert K. Butters, 79, of Pulaski Township, died Monday, March 20, 2006. 
He was born March 17, 1927, in Pulaski, to Jerome and Olive Mae (Hutchins) Butters. 
He married Barbara Ann Davis June 7, 1949. She survives. 
Mr. Butters served in the U.S. Army during WWII and retired from SPX Corp. (Kent-Moore) in Jackson, after 42 years of employment.   
In addition to his wife, Mr. Butters is survived by two daughters, Ruth Ann (Jeff) Daglow of Homer, and JoDee (Andy) Thomas of Litchfield; a son, Jeffery (Kathleen) Butters of Pulaski; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; and five step-great-grandchildren. 
He was preceded in death by three brothers, Suthard, Curtis, and Wallace; and a sister, Margaret Rhodes. 
Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later date. 
Memorial contributions may be made to the Pulaski Fire Department, Interfaith Shelter, Salvation Army, or Hospice of Jackson and Oaklawn. 
Funeral arrangements were handled by the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.

Kathleen Rose Hanning
Kathleen Rose Hanning, 63, of Jackson, died Sunday, March 19, 2006, at home.  
She was born June 12, 1942, in Carey, Ohio, to Dewey and Edna (Barnett) Caldwell.  
She is survived by a daughter, LaTasha Vancise; eight sisters, Patricia Anson of Jonesville, Bobby Thorp of Litchfield, Shirley Lyons of Hillsdale, Betty Jane Thomas of Tennessee, Helen Carrel of Findlay, Ohio, Gloria Hatts of Coldwater, Carol Sloan of Litchfield, and Nonie Hall of Tennessee; and a brother, Alby Thorp of Tennessee.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Janet Caldwell; and a son, Kevin Vancise.
Funeral services will be held today (Wednesday) at 1 p.m., at the George White Funeral Home, Litchfield, with the Rev. Carl Q. Litchfield officiating. Interment will follow in Mount Hope Cemetery. Visitation is scheduled today from 11 a.m. until time of service. 

March 29, 2006

Janet Lou Burk
Janet Lou Burk, 60, of Kalamazoo, died Wednesday, March 22, 2006, at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo.  
She was born January 8, 1946, in Marshall, to Wilson and Ruth (Chamberlain) Burk.  
Ms. Burk graduated from Litchfield High School and received her bachelors and masters degrees in library science from Western Michigan University. Her career as a librarian included the Coldwater Public Library, WMU Map Repository, and Illinois College. She belonged to the First Church of Christ Scientist in Boston, Massachusetts.   
She is survived by a brother,  Keith (Darlene) Burk of Kalamazoo; a nephew, Eric Burk of Atlanta, Georgia; and a niece, Linnea (Elliott) Burk Paletz of Madison, Wisconsin. 
Her parents and an infant brother preceded her in death. 
Graveside services will be held Saturday, April 8, 2006, at Mount Hope Cemetery, Litchfield, with Reverend Mike Murray officiating. Visitation at the George White Funeral Home, Litchfield, will be held from noon until time of service. 
Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan, 222 N. Kalamazoo Mall, Suite 100, Kalamazoo, MI 49007-3882.

April 5, 2006

Ernestine Hatten Cady
Ernestine Hatten Cady, 95, former resident of Homer, died March 17, 2006, in her home at Countryside Lakes in Port Orange, Florida.  
She was born June 25, 1910, in Grand Rapids. She married Eugene Conger Cady in 1933, and he preceded her in death in 1999.
Mrs. Cady attended Olivet College and graduated from the University of Michigan. She spent her first years of marriage in Litchfield and Homer.  During those years she was active in a variety of organizations and her church. She felt honored to serve as the first woman elder in the Homer Presbyterian Church.
Later, the family moved to Lakeview, where Mr. Cady was  appointed principal of the high school. They retired in Port Orange, Florida, and also had a home in Clayton, Georgia.
In Florida, Mrs. Cady was a member of the Westminster-by-the Sea Presbyterian Church, and one of the first members of the Sand Dollar Chapter of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America.
Mrs. Cady is survived by three children, Barbara (Charles)  Nobles of Bloomington, Illinois, William Cady of Bunnell, Florida, and Stephen (Anna) Cady of Port Orange, Florida;  seven grandchildren, Beth Nobles of Van Horn, Texas,  Linda Nobles of Bloomington, Illinois, Terry (Vanessa) Cady of Ormond Beach, Florida, Gary Cady of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, Kimi Cady of Orlando, Florida, Josh Cady of Port Orange, Florida, and Tim Cady of Concord; three great-granddaughters, Paige, Kyla and Savanna Cady; a sister; two nephews; and a niece.
A celebration of life service was held at her home at Countryside Lakes in Port Orange. Interment followed at Volusia Memorial Park in Ormond Beach.
Memorial contributions may be sent to Hospice of Palm Coast, 11149 S. Ridgewood, Suite 400, Daytona Beach, FL 32114 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Julie Ann Champion
Julie Ann Champion, 65, of Scipio Township, died Sunday, April 2, 2006, at University of Michigan Hospital. 
She was born January 18, 1941, in Jackson County, to Stanford and Edith (Logan) Densmore, and graduated from Hanover-Horton High School in 1959.  
She married Lester Champion September 2, 1960. He survives.
For 23 years she raised more than 40 foster children, seven of whom she adopted. She had also worked at Raker and Sons for a short time.
Mrs. Champion was a charter member of the Pulaski Free Methodist Church. 
In addition to her husband, she is survived by five daughters, Carman (Steven) Norris of Marshall, Jean Ann (Robert) Bronson of Jonesville, Christine (Kevin) King of Litchfield, Tammy Champion of Jonesville, and Mary Ann Champion of Ohio; six sons, Edwin (Suzanne) Champion of Pulaski, Ronald, Allen and James Champion, all of Hillsdale, and Brian and Donald Champion, both of Litchfield; two sisters, Jean Thorne of Hanover and Joan (John) Rule of Spring Arbor; two brothers, Jim Densmore of Hanover and Jerry (Barbara) Densmore of Homer; and 12 grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother.
Funeral services will be held Thursday at 3 p.m. at the Pulaski Free Methodist Church, with Pastor Mike Ortell officiating.  Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, at the church, from 1 p.m. until time of service.  
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Pulaski Free Methodist Church or Cancer Research at U of M.     
Funeral arrangements were handled by the George White Funeral Home, Litchfield.

Rolland Lazarus
Rolland Lazarus, 73, of Homer, formerly of the Albion and Concord areas, died Saturday, April 1, 2006, at Laurels of Coldwater. 
He was born February 24, 1933, in Burlington, to Milo and Clara (Wagoner) Lazarus. He married Edith Rose Lighthill in 1956, and she survives. 
Mr. Lazarus was a painter for McGraw-Edison for 20 years and had worked for Mid Michigan Metal in Albion for several years. He served in the U.S. Air Force during peace time. He was a member of the Big “9” Sportsman Club and enjoyed fishing, gardening, tinkering and fixing things. 
In addition to his wife, he is survived by a son, Jerry (Vicki) Lazarus of Jonesville; two sisters, Doris McKenzie of Spring Arbor and Joyce Schultz of Parma; two brothers, Bill Lazarus of Homer and Gary Lazarus of Ohio; three grandchildren; and a great-grandchild.
He was predeceased by a son, Ronald, and sister, Donna Dearth.  
Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. today (Wednesday) at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, Albion, with Pastor Tom Merrick officiating. Visitation will be from noon until the service. 
Donations are suggested to Daughters of the American Revolution.  

April 12, 2006

Victor “Bo” Conley
Victor “Bo” Conley, 51, of Litchfield, and formerly of Homer, died Wednesday, April 5, 2006, at University of Michigan Hospital. 
Mr. Conley was born December 3, 1954, in Albion, to Duane and Norma (Cooley) Conley. He graduated from Homer High School. He married Cheryl Kimble February 20, 2004. She survives.
Mr. Conley was a master mechanic for Mike’s Body Shop in Homer for 10 years. He also worked for Nevin’s Body Shop and Trojan Heat Treat. He was an avid sports fan, a member of Fairlane Club of America, and enjoyed NASCAR and restoring cars. 
In addition to his wife, survivors include a son, Codie W.J. Conley, of Jackson; and three brothers, Nate Conley and David Conley, both of Homer, and Michael Conley of Ohio.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers, Steven and Jerry.
Funeral services were held Friday, April 7, at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion, with the Rev. Don Lee officiating. 
Memorial contributions to the family are suggested.

Allie Jr. McClurg
Allie Jr. McClurg, 70, of Mesa, Arizona, formerly of Litchfield, died Tuesday, April 4, 2006, at Banner Hospice, Mesa.  
He was born June 2, 1935, in Eifort, Ohio, to Allie and Laure (Evans) McClurg, Sr.  
He married Lois Baker December 16, 1967. She survives.
Mr. McClurg had been employed at Hayes-Albion Corp.; Yardman Co., Jackson; Flint Trucking Co., Litchfield; and retired from the Litchfield Community Schools where he was the maintenance supervisor. He belonged to the Michigan Club in Arizona and loved fishing, gardening, and family activities. While in Michigan, he enjoyed residing at Lighthouse Village. 
In addition to his wife, Mr. McClurg is survived by four sisters, Geneva McClurg and Helen Watson, both of Ohio, Judy Kelly of New Mexico, and Lucille Preston of West Virginia; a brother, Jennings McClurg of Ohio; a grandson, Stephen Robert McClurg of Alabama; nieces, Amy Jurmu of Wyoming, Michigan, and Dusty Shillings of Albion; a nephew, Brandit Newman of Albion; godchildren Tammy Signor, David Lucas, and John Paul Estep; his mother-in-law, Donna Baker of Arizona; brothers-in-law, Charles (Brenda) Vanderpool of Litchfield and Cecil (Linda) Kilbourn of Marshall. 
He was preceded in death by a son, Stephen; a daughter DeAnna Lynn; and a brother, Stephen. 
Funeral services were held Monday, April 10, at the George White Funeral Home, Litchfield, with Reverend Earl Martin officiating.  Interment followed in Albion Memory Gardens.  
Memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society are suggested.

Ruth A. Hamilton
Ruth A. Hamilton, 78, of Allen, formerly of Homer, died Saturday, April 8, 2006, at Hillsdale Community Health Center. 
She was born September 8, 1927, in Eckford, to Henry J. and Bernice (Pierce) Hoffman. 
She married Gale Hamilton in April 1953, and he preceded her in death in 1983. 
Mrs. Hamilton was a seamstress for Harvard Industries in Litchfield for 20 years. She enjoyed sewing, baking bread, cooking, reading and taking care of her family.
She is survived by a daughter, Jane (Dale) Boulis of Allen; two sons, Greg (Ruth) Hamilton of Homer and Larry (Sally) Hamilton of Wyoming, Michigan; two sisters, Marian (Richard) Lozon of Marshall and Eleanor (Tom) Carey of Sun City, Arizona; and five grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a brother, Elmer Hoffman; and two sisters, Elsie and Jane Dye.
A graveside service will be held Thursday, April 13, 2006, at 1 p.m. at Fairview Cemetery in Homer. Visitation will be today (Wednesday) from 5-8 p.m. at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, Albion.
Memorial contributions are suggested to American Lung Association or Hospice of Hillsdale County. 

Harry “Pork” Weiss
Harry “Pork” Weiss, 79, of Homer, died Sunday, April 9, 2006, at Foote Hospital. 
He was born April 26, 1926, in Albion, to Harry E. and Teresa L. (Chapman) Weiss. 
He married Irene Bowser in 1948, and she preceded him in death in 1974. He married Betty DeWater in 1976, and she preceded him in death in 2004. 
Mr. Weiss worked in the plating department at Union Steel for 15 years. He also ran a milk route with his brother Don. He served his country in the U.S. Navy on the U.S.S. Suffolk during WW II. He attended every annual Navy reunion of the ship’s crew and was a member of the local VFW. 
Mr. Weiss was a member of Homer Lion’s Club and its secretary for 46 years. For many years he worked with Fred Vanderlip to form and run the early summer Little League program. He was on the Adult Fast Pitch Softball League. He was active in high school football programs and interested in all local sports. In fact, he was awarded the Most Dedicated Fan for Homer Sports. He was a member of Homer Coffee Group.   
Mr. Weiss is survived by a daughter, Sherry Weiss of California; a stepdaughter, Julie McLish of Union City; four sons, Chuck (Fraya) Weiss of Homer, John (Sandy) Weiss of South Haven, and Greg (Delores) Weiss and David Weiss, both of Battle Creek; a stepson, Randy Guilt of Pennsylvania; a sister-in-law, Peg Weiss of Homer; 13 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
In addition to his wives, he was preceded in death by a brother, Don; a sister, Pat Newell; and a grandson, Tim Weiss.
A funeral service will be held Thursday, April 13, 2006, at 11 a.m. at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, Albion, with the Rev. Margaret Jorgensen officiating. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery. 
Visitation will be today (Wednesday) from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. 
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Homer Athletic Boosters Club are suggested. 

Armed Litchfield man fatally shot by county officers 
by Darby Cornelius
An armed Litchfield man was fatally shot Sunday at approximately 3 a.m. at 9400 Herring Road, following a confrontation with law enforcement officers. 
Max J. Seely, 22, was initially treated by the Reading Emergency Unit and later taken to the Hillsdale Community Health Center, then transferred by air to Borgess Hospital where he was taken into surgery and later pronounced dead.
According to Hillsdale County Sheriff Stan W. Burchardt, Seely threatened to kill himself or any police officer, before pointing a shotgun directly at officers, who responded by shooting the armed suspect to reduce the possibility of injury or death to police officers or the public.
Hillsdale County 911 received a call Sunday at approximately 2:39 a.m. from a distraught female who told dispatchers a male subject at her Litchfield Township residence was carrying around a gun stating he was going to kill himself or the police.
911 immediately dispatched law enforcement officers to the Herring Road residence, with assistance provided by the Litchfield Police Department. Officers arrived on the scene at 2:49 a.m., and brought the woman who called 911 out of the residence and into a patrol car where she was questioned about the events. 
Officers were told the male subject who lived at the residence was pacing in and out of the house for some time and was threatening to kill himself or any police officer.
According to the sheriff’s report, “Shortly after the female fled from the residence and went  with police, the armed suspect walked outside and began waving a shotgun in the air directly in front of the law enforcement officers and shouted profanity and vulgar slurs. On numerous occasions, the deputies attempted to end the armed subject’s suicidal attempt and armed standoff by asking the suspect to peacefully put the gun down, allowing them to talk and that the Sheriff’s Office could get him some professional help. The armed suspect refused to comply with any request while continuing to pace outside and quickly brought his firearm up in his arms, at which time he began to point it at the police officers.”
The deputies verbally commanded him to put the weapon down, but he did not comply and continued pointing it directly at officers. At that time deputies fired the shots that eventually ended his life.
In compliance with Sheriff’s Office policy regarding on-duty shootings involving deputies, the incident and investigation was immediately turned over to the Michigan State Police for a detailed investigation, comprehensive follow-up and crime scene investigation.
Crime scene technicians were at the scene, and conducted an autopsy Monday. Officers’ weapons were taken to the Lansing crime lab.
Detective Sergeant Cyndi Gochanour of the Michigan State Police - Jonesville Post was in charge of the investigation. 
The three deputies who were involved in the shooting are on paid administrative leave.

Max J. Seely
Max J. Seely, 22, of Litchfield Township, died Sunday April 9, 2006, in Kalamazoo.
He was born November 16, 1983, in Hillsdale, and graduated from Jonesville schools in 2001.
He was employed at Ritz Craft Homes in Jonesville. His hobbies included hunting, fishing, golfing and 4-wheeling. 
He is survived by his mother, Virgie Houchen and Gary Croad of Litchfield; two brothers, Mikel Howard (Joann) Seely of Hubert, North Carolina, and Matthew Don (Patrisha Sullivan) Seely of Jonesville; and several aunt, uncles and cousins.
His grandparents preceded him in death.
Visitation is scheduled for today (Wednesday) from 6-8 p.m. at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.  
Funeral services will be held Thursday at 1 p.m., at the funeral home, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating. Interment in Mount Hope Cemetery will follow.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the charity of one’s choice. 

April 19, 2006

Suzanne G. Bonogofsky
Suzanne G. Bonogofsky, 72, of Litchfield, died Saturday, April 15, 2006, at the Hillsdale County Medical Care Facility. 
She was born September 14, 1933, in Homer, to Colon and Vera (Kelly) Brockway.
She married Edwin Bonogofsky in 1951, and he preceded her in death.
Mrs. Bonogofsky was a graduate of Homer High School, and later went on to become an LPN working at Sheldon Memorial Hospital in Albion for many years. She lived in Homer until 1977, when she moved to Litchfield. She was very active in volunteering, as she was a driver for the Hillsdale Senior Center, worked at the Salvation Army, and was active in the Moose Heart.
Mrs. Bonogofsky is survived by four daughters, Karen (John) Bartley of Homer, Coleen (Rusty) Cole of Osseo, Shirley (Frank) Duncan of Quincy, and Deborah (Keith) Ely of Jackson; 15 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Alan Brockway and G. Michael Brockway, both of Homer.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; an infant son Frankie; and two brothers, Willard and Lynn Brockway.
Cremation has taken place and there will be no service or visitation at Mrs. Bonogofsky’s request. Funeral arrangements were handled by the VanHorn-Eagle Funeral Home, Hillsdale.
Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to make a donation to the Hillsdale Senior Center. To view this obituary and leave condolences, visit the funeral home’s website at www.eaglefuneralhomes.com.

April 26, 2006

Shirley J. Trader
Shirley J. Trader, 83, of Tucson, Arizona, formerly of Homer, went to be with the Lord Friday, April 14, 2006, in Tucson. 
She was born December 26, 1922, in Homer. She married Vern W. Trader who preceded her in death. 
Mrs. Trader is survived by her children, Karl (Gail) Trader, Lois (Robert) Titus and Kent (Lynda) Trader; grandchildren, Japheth and Scot Trader, Skyler and Tracy Titus, Travis Trader, and Ryan, Amanda and Kristen Taskila. 
A graveside service was held Friday, April 21, at Albion Memory Gardens with Pastor Mark Mitchell officiating. Visitation was at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion.  

Frances Lucille Andrus
Frances Lucille Andrus, 92, of Jackson, died Saturday, April 22, 2006, at Arbor Manor Care Center in Spring Arbor.
She was born September 3, 1913, in Homer, to Francis and Leora Hayner. 
Mrs. Andrus was a life member of Eastern Star Chapter #140. She was a Gray Lady in Paw Paw Hospital for 11 years, a part-time telephone operator in Homer for several years, and shuffle board secretary in Tavares, Florida.
She loved to garden, travel and spend time with her family and friends. She was a homemaker.
Mrs. Andrus is survived by two daughters, Nola Lee Andrus and Carole (Horst) Behncke; five grandchildren, Kirk Smith, Kelly (Linda) Warner, Kari (Scott) Kerstetter, Lynn (Laurie) Smith and Kevin (Angela) Warner; 11 great-grandchildren; a brother, Walter (Evelyn) Hayner; several nieces and nephews; and many special friends.
Mrs. Andrus was preceded in death by her husband of 69 years, Lloyd W. Andrus; a grandson, Tate Lee Warner; a sister, Louise Muncie; and a stepbrother, Thomas Hayner.
According to Mrs. Andrus’ wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, in Homer, with the Rev. Charles Krueger officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Great Lakes Hospice, 103 S. Jackson St., Jackson MI 49201.
Arrangements were handled by J. L. Watson Funeral Chapel, Jackson. (w/photo)

May 3, 2006 - No Obituaries

May 10, 2006

Gerald D. Hammontree
Gerald D. Hammontree, 70, of Homer, died Saturday, May 6, 2006, at Tendercare in Marshall. 
He was born June 17, 1935, in Petoskey, to Leon and Inez Hammontree. 
He married Shirley Draeger August 13, 1955, and she preceded him in death January 29, 2004.  
Mr. Hammontree was in the U.S. Army and served his country during the Korean Conflict. He worked in maintenance at Starr Commonwealth for more than 30 years. He was a member of the V.F.W in Homer and enjoyed woodworking and gardening. 
He is survived by a son, Gerry (Teresa) Hammontree of Marshall; five sisters, Marcia Butters, Doris McWatters, Betty Parker and Phyllis Winnick, all of Homer, and Margaret Carolan of West Branch; a brother, Bill (Margaret) Hammontree of West Branch; two grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers.
A funeral service will be held today (Wednesday) at 11 a.m. at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, Albion, with Pastor Mark Mitchell officiating. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Homer. Visitation was Tuesday from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to Homer V.F.W. 

May 17, 2006 - No Obituaries

May 24, 2006

Clarence M. “Duke” Tyszko
Clarence M. “Duke” Tyszko, 40, of Litchfield, died Saturday, May 13, 2006, at the Hillsdale Community Health Center.  
He was born June 25, 1965, in Albion. He married Dawn Marie Gunst February 14, 1999, and she preceded him in death in 2005. 
Mr. Tyszko was employed at the Wal-Mart Distribution Center in Coldwater.
He was an avid Nascar fan and collected Nascar memorabilia. He also generously donated two bicycles to a children’s charity every year.   
He is survived by his father, Thomas F. Tyszko of Sebring, Florida; his mother, Grace M. Hose of Albion; a stepdaughter, Kala Robinson, of Bronson; a sister, Suzanne (Brian) Shimkus, of Albion; two brothers, Thomas (Candy) Tyszko Jr. of Springport and Michael (Nona) Tyszko of Muskegon; five nieces; five nephews; a great-niece; and five great-nephews.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Tyszko was preceded in death by a niece. 
Funeral services were held Saturday, May 20, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating.
Interment followed in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Litchfield. 
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Hillsdale County Humane Society or American Cancer Society. 

May 31, 2006

Marjorie A. VanHeerde
Marjorie A. VanHeerde, 61, of Homer and formerly of Mosherville, died Thursday, May 25, 2006, at Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall.
Mrs. VanHeerde was born March 23, 1945, in Albion, to Russell and Hope (Finley) Hepler. She served in the U.S. Air Force from 1964-66, and retired after 20 years as postmistress in Mosherville.
Mrs. VanHeerde belonged to the Mosherville Community Church, where she taught Sunday school. She enjoyed reading her Bible, playing cards with friends and spending time with her grandchildren
Survivors include two sons, James (Crystal) VanHeerde of Hillsdale and Troy (Andrea) VanHeerde of Ypsilanti; a sister, Joyce (Dennis) Miller of Battle Creek; a brother, Raymond (Yon) Hepler of Homer; and six grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by he parents and a daughter Melissa.
Funeral services were Tuesday, May 30, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield. Interment followed at Fisher Cemetery in Homer Township.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the family.

Margaret Helen Franzen
Margaret Helen Franzen, 96, of Jackson, died Saturday, May 13, 2006, at Countryside Care Center in Jackson.
Mrs. Franzen was born May 22, 1909, in Homer, to James and Olevia May (Benham) McCulley. She was a 1927 graduate of Homer High School and a 1930 graduate of Foote School of Nursing. 
She married Clarence L. Franzen in 1936 in Mackinaw City. He preceded her in death in 1952. 
She was a descendant of Robert and Harriet (Harris) McCulley, and Eliakim and Polly Ann (Sanford) Benham, early settlers of Albion and Homer townships.
Survivors include a daughter, Olevia Ann (Vernon) Williams of Lincoln, Nebraska; a son, James M. Franzen of Jackson; a grandson, Eric F. Williams of Lincoln; a granddaughter, Kathleen B. Williams of Lincoln; two sisters-in-law, Rose Mary Ratzloff of Shattuck,Oklahoma, and Barbara McClure of Jackson; and several nieces and nephews.
Burial was in Fairview Cemetery in Homer.

June 7, 2006

Mamie Mae Dawson
Mamie Mae Dawson, 81, of Mosherville, died Monday, May 29, 2006, at the Hillsdale County Medical Care Facility.  
Mrs. Dawson was born August 15, 1924, in Summerlee, West Virginia, to Bert and Julia (Wells) Lewis. 
She married Clarence Dawson July 27, 1946, and he preceded her in death.
Mrs. Dawson previously belonged to the Mosherville Ladies Aid. She and her husband enjoyed handcrafts and woodworking projects, and they traveled to many area craft shows.  
She is survived by two daughters, Sue (Dennis) Smith of Jonesville and Linda (Mike) Kennedy of Cantonment, Florida, and two granddaughters, Melissa and Amber.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Dawson was preceded in death by her parents, three sisters and a brother. 
Funeral services were held Thursday, June 1, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with Pastor Don Harkey officiating. Interment in Mosherville Cemetery followed. 
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society. 

Sam Pratt
Sam Pratt, 60, of Albion, died Monday, May 29, 2006, at his home. He was born January 24, 1946, in Pine Top, Kentucky, to Girvin and Myrtle (Slone) Pratt. 
He married Louise Kracko August 19, 1967, and she survives. 
Mr. Pratt was a molder for Hayes-Albion and also worked at Starr Commonwealth, Addison Products and Midwest Foundry. He enjoyed hunting, especially coon hunting, fishing and gardening, and liked good humor. He was a dedicated family man who especially loved his grandchildren. 
In addition to his wife, Mr. Pratt is survived by two sons, Christopher Pratt of Marshall and Jeffery Pratt of Albion; four sisters, Evelena Sturgill of Marshall, Monnie (Clo) Hackworth of Homer, Wanda (Richard) Goble of Albion, and Marie Rewa of Marshall; six brothers, Wayne (Frona) Pratt of Sturgis, John Pratt of Jackson, Edgar (Sammie) Pratt of Homer, Mirle Pratt of Naples, Florida, Irvin Pratt of Marshall and Clyde (Barb) Pratt of Marshall; four grandsons; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Mae (Eli) Sparks. 
A funeral service was held Thursday, June 1, at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion, with the Rev. Earl Martin officiating. Interment followed at Riverside Cemetery. 
Memorial contributions are suggested to Calhoun County Humane Society.

Barbara Ann Butters
Barbara Ann Butters, 75, of Pulaski Township, died Tuesday, May 30, 2006, at home. She was born April 15, 1931, in Jackson,  to Clarence and Rachel (Waldron) Davis and graduated from Hanover-Horton High School in 1949.  
She married Gilbert Kenyon Butters June 7, 1949, and he preceded her in death in March 2006.
Mrs. Butters had worked at the Jackson Country Club as a waitress and hostess.   
She is survived by two daughters, Ruth Ann (Jeff) Daglow of Homer, and Jo Dee (Andy) Thomas of Litchfield; a son, Jeffery (Kathleen) Butters of Pulaski; a sister, Mary K. Lycke of Virginia; 12 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and a special friend, Jo Waldron of Florida.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents.
Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. 
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Pulaski Fire Department, Salvation Army-Interfaith Shelter, or Hospice of Jackson and Oaklawn.
Arrangements were handled by George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.

Norma J. Hasbrouck Holliday
Norma J. Hasbrouck Holliday, 70, of Allen, formerly of Litchfield, died Tuesday, May 30, 2006, at her daughter’s home in Alliance, Ohio.  
Mrs. Hasbrouck Holliday was born November 28, 1935, in Hillsdale County, to Milton and Wilma (Evans) Bliss. She graduated from Hillsdale High School in 1953.   
She married Eugene Hasbrouck in 1956, and he preceded her in death in 1999. She married Robert Holliday in 2001 and he survives.  
Mrs. Hasbrouck Holliday had worked as a nurse’s aide at Albion Community Hospital and was an avid bowler, belonging to leagues at Litchfield-Jonesville Lanes and Hillsdale Lanes. 
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Hasbrouck Holliday is survived by a daughter, Cynthia (Rick) Hasbrouck-Johnson of Alliance, Ohio; four sons, Michael (Debbie) Hasbrouck of Prescott, Arizona, Neil (Debbie) Hasbrouck of Quincy, Milton Scott Hasbrouck of Litchfield, and Todd Hasbrouck of Germany; two stepdaughters, Sheila (Scott) McMullen of Allen, and Julie (Rick) McNair of Hillsdale; a sister, JoAnn (John) Owens of Reading; 19 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
In addition to her first husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and a brother.
Funeral services were held Saturday, June 3, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with Pastors Cathy Bartles and J.J. Hodshire officiating.  
Memorial contributions to the family would be appreciated.

Charles W. “Bill” Hickerson
Charles W. “Bill” Hickerson, 76, of Homer, died Thursday, June 1, 2006, at his home. He was born April 7, 1930, in Homer, to John and Leila (Baker) Hickerson. 
Mr. Hickerson served his country in the U.S. Army. 
He married LaVeana Vance March 27, 1952. She survives. 
Mr. Hickerson was a production worker at Eaton Corporation for 30-1/2 years, retiring in 1982. He also farmed for 50 years. He enjoyed garage sales, farming and gardening.  
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Kathy (Larry) Mills and Elizabeth Hickerson, both of Homer; two sisters, Dorothy Clark of Florida and Betty Hakes of Homer; two grandchildren, Jeremy (Chassity) Mills and Josh Mills, both of Homer; and three great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Barbara Dubert; and two brothers, Archie and Jack.
According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. No service is planned at this time.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Homer Area Community Foundation.
Arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion.  

Geneva W. (Poynter) Whaley
Geneva W. (Poynter) Whaley, 62, of Tucson, Arizona, formerly of Homer, died Monday, May 29, 2006, at her residence. 
She was born February 20, 1944, in Jackson, to Robert W. and Dorotha (Wirebaugh) Poynter.
Mrs. Whaley had been a resident of Tucson for the last 14 years. She was a patient caregiver for Hospice in Arizona for 10-11 years. She was a member of the Desert Chapel Christian Church.
She is survived by a son, Scott Robert Bronson Sr. of Conway, Arkansas; a daughter, Rachelle (fiancee Scott Sturm) of Tucson; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two sisters, Roberta Steves of Scottsdale, Arizona, and Diana Tremain of Parma.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Rosemary Poynter.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, June 6, at 11 a.m. at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, with the Rev. Jody Cox officiating. 
Burial was held in Hillcrest Memorial Park in Jackson.
Assistance with memorial contributions to the Diabetes or American Heart Association may be made at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels.

James Oda Stewart
James Oda Stewart, 77, of Midland, Texas, formerly of Homer, died Saturday, June 3, 2006.  
He was born October 5, 1928, to William David and Emily Gertrude (Hawthorne) Stewart in Caradon, Texas. 
Mr. Stewart was raised and educated in Turkey, Texas. He married Norma Lea Wilks June 22, 1947, in Ulysses, Kansas, and she survives.  
He retired from the oil and gas industry after 55 years of service.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Stewart is survived by his mother-in-law, Juanita Smith; three daughters, Vickie (Raymond) Waisner, Patsy Savage and Kim (Ed) Stewart; a son, Craig (Nora) Stewart; grandchildren, Darren Waisner, Daryl Waisner, Amber Locke, Brian Savage, Jeff Savage, Bryce Seale, Jamie Bloom, Micah Stewart, Alex Luna, Lora Ramon and Neomi Luna, Jacquelyn Jones, Jamin Jones and Jeremy Stewart; 23 great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; and a sister, Melba Patton.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Oren and Dean Stewart; and a sister, Donnie Huddleston.
Funeral services were held Monday, June 5, at Bellview Baptist Church of Midland.  Interment followed at Serenity Memorial Gardens in Midland.  Pallbearers were Darren Waisner, Brian Savage, Daryl Waisner, Bryce Seale, Jeff Savage, Alex Luna and Micah Stewart.  Arrangements were under the direction of Ellis Funeral Home, Midland. 
Memorial contributions may be directed to Hospice of Midland, P.O. Box 2621, Midland, TX  79702 or Bellview Baptist Church, 1710 N. Big Spring, Midland, TX  79701. (w/photo)

June 14, 2006

Richard E. Krohn
Richard E. Krohn, 80, of Litchfield, died Monday, June 5, 2006, at the Litchfield Nursing Centre.
Mr. Krohn was born October 28, 1925, in Chicago to Emil F. and Ruth (Kross) Krohn. He graduated from Centreville High School and Western Michigan University, where he earned both Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees. He married Beryl Alice Hitchcock June 16, 1951. She survives.
Mr. Krohn taught industrial art for 36 years at Litchfield Community Schools, and also served as a coach, assistant athletic director, class advisor and, for 41 years, taught driver’s education.
He was a member of the U.S. Navy during World War II, and was an avid golfer.
In addition to his wife, survivors include a son, Steven Krohn, of Kalamazoo;  a daughter, Janis (James) White of Litchfield; six grandchildren, Ryan, Taryn and Damon Krohn, and Stephanie, Kelly and Alex White.
He was preceded in death by a brother Kenneth.
Funeral services were held Thursday, June 8, at the George White Funeral Home, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders  officiating. Interment followed in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Litchfield Community Schools for the newly proposed golf program.

Margaret “Bridgit” Horton
Margaret “Bridgit” Horton, 86, of Homer, went to be with her Lord Saturday, June 10, 2006, surrounded by her family.
She was born October 9, 1919, to Henry and Mary Gyles.
She was raised in the Jackson area and married Glen “Slim” Horton April 20, 1940, and he survives. They belonged to St. John Catholic Church in Albion and attended St. Mary’s in Marshall in recent years.
Mrs. Horton enjoyed gardening, entertaining friends, cooking, and the morning coffee circle. Family was her first love, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother.
In addition to her loving husband of 66 years, Mrs. Horton is survived by two sons, Rodney (Mary) Horton and Roger (Carmen) Horton, both of Tekonsha; five grandchildren, Stephanie (Tim) Letbetter of Ottawa, Illinois, Shannon (Dave) Pearce of Livonia, Robert (Hope) Horton of Tekonsha, Keri (Wesley) Schmidt of Homer and Renee Katz of Marshall; and nine great-grandchildren.
A funeral service will be held today (Wednesday) at 1 p.m. at St. John Catholic Church in Albion with Father Gordon Greene officiating. Interment will follow in Fairview Cemetery in Homer. Visitation was Tuesday, June 13, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Great Lakes Hospice, St. John Catholic Church, Albion, or St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Marshall.

Barbara Jane Meyer
Barbara Jane (Hill) Meyer, 77, of Albion, died Friday, June 9, 2006, at home.
She was born in Highland Park, to William J. and Jane E. (Weston) Hill. She married Richard L. Meyer November 25, 1949, and he preceded her in death.
Mrs. Meyer was a 1950 graduate of Albion College. She was one of two students who worked for the establishment of a physical education minor, and graduated with a double major in English and history and a minor in physical education. She taught physical education in Birmingham.
She was active in tennis and field hockey and many intramural sports in college. She was voted most valuable player in field hockey in 1948. She continued her involvement in sports after college. In spite of contracting a severe case of polio, she created and ran a girls’ athletic league in softball, basketball, field hockey and volleyball, and was inducted into the Albion College Athletic Hall of Fame in 1995.
Mrs. Meyer was a member of the League of Women Voters in Pennsylvania, and produced and participated in a televised panel discussion about the Middle East political situation. She was also a member of Delta Gamma sorority and had belonged to the ELT Club and the American Association of University Women. She enjoyed doing genealogical research, which led to her membership in the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Daughters of Cincinnati, and the United Empire Loyalists. Mrs. Meyer was involved in many activities with her children, including serving as a Cub Scout den mother and a Girl Scout leader. She was an avid gardener and loved being surrounded by flowers.
She is survived by her children, Margaret “Peggy” (Conrad) Sindt of Homer, Philip (Gloria) Meyer of Holland, and Douglas Meyer of New York, New York; grandchildren Benjamin of Ann Arbor, Caitlin, and Caroline Meyer of Holland.
In addition to her husband of 55 years, she was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Jack Hill.
Visitation was held at Bellemont Manor, Albion College, Tuesday, June 13, from 3-4:30 p.m. Private interment will take place at a later date.
Donations in lieu of flowers are suggested to the Richard L. and Barbara J. (Hill) Meyer Endowment at Albion College or the Rotary Foundation Polio Plus Fund. Arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home of Albion.

Thelma G. Cunkle
Thelma G. Cunkle, 100, of Homer, died Sunday, June 11, 2006, at Litchfield Nursing Centre. 
She was born in a sod house January 25, 1906, in Tribune, Kansas, to John and Gertrude (Smith) Smith. The small town changed its name to Thelma, the first baby born there. 
She married Herschel Cunkle November 26, 1930, and he preceded her in death in November 1988. 
Mrs. Cunkle was a homemaker who also worked at the Post Office, and taught at a one-room schoolhouse which both bore her name. She moved to Milan, where she was a life member of the Milan Chapter of the Eastern Star. She moved to Homer in 1980 and was a member of the Presbyterian Church in Homer.  
Mrs. Cunkle enjoyed gardening, cooking, sewing, reading and  traveling, and was a talented piano player. 
She is survived by three sons, Harold (Mary Lou) Cunkle of Homer, Bill (Helen) Cunkle of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Richard (Carolyn) Cunkle of Saline; a sister, Mary Bevins of Oklahoma City; eight grandsons; a granddaughter; 25 great-grandchildren; and 11 great-great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Walter, and three sisters, Flossie Smith, Orpha Stinson and Helen Lindley. 
A funeral service will be held Friday, June 16, at 11 a.m. at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion, with the Rev. Don Smith officiating. Interment will take place at Fairview Cemetery in Homer. 
Visitation will be Thursday  from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to Homer Presbyterian Church. 

Virgil E. Mulkey
Virgil E. Mulkey, 67, of Three Rivers, formerly of Albion and Homer, died Saturday, June 10, 2006, at his home. He was born November 23, 1938, in Kenvir, Kentucky, to Hubert and Mattie (Norton) Mulkey.
Mr. Mulkey served his country in the U.S. Army in Germany from 1963-1965. He married Marsha Hamman August 6, 1966, and she survives. 
He was employed at Corning Glass and Harvard Industries in Albion, Lear Corporation in Mendon, Hydromatic in Three Rivers, and retired from Delphi Electronics. 
He enjoyed gardening, yard work, feeding the wildlife in the backyard, and especially his family get-togethers.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Mulkey is survived by a daughter, Melissa Dillin of Three Rivers; two sisters, Betty Saylor of Lancaster, Ohio, and Sammy Pratt of Homer; three brothers, Hubert Mulkey Jr. of Marshall, and Vernon Mulkey and James Mulkey, both of Albion; and two grandchildren.
Mr. Mulkey was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Margaret Harp; and two brothers, Delbert and Billy Ray Mulkey.
A graveside service will be held Friday, June 16, at 2 p.m. at Fairview Cemetery, Homer, with the Rev. Earl Martin officiating. Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society. 
Arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home of Albion.

June 21, 2006

Margaret Kubasczyk
Margaret Kubasczyk, 86, of Sherwood, died Monday, June 12, 2006, at Community Health Center of Coldwater. She was born October 6, 1919, in Hamtramck, to Peter and Martha (Kaczynski) Kubert. 
She married Frank Kubasczyk April 15, 1939, in Garden City. He preceded her in death November 27, 1984.
Mrs. Kubasczyk was a creative writer, and she loved cats and enjoyed spending time with her family.
She is survived by a son, Kenneth (Sandy) Kubasczyk of Sherwood; a daughter, Barbara Fogg of Charlotte; five grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. 
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a brother, Ernest Kubert, in 2003.
According to her wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to Good Samaritan Hospice. 
Arrangements were entrusted to the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels.

Duane Kenneth Cook
Duane Kenneth Cook, 64, of San Antonio, Texas, died Monday, June 5, 2006, at the Hospice Care Center in San Antonio, following a long illness.
He was born November 30, 1941, in Homer, to Kenneth and Mary (Riske) Cook.
Mr. Cook married his wife, Margit, in Germany in 1962. She survives.
Mr. Cook graduated from Marshall High School and, following graduation, joined the United States Army. He served for 20 years before his retirement at Fort Hood, Texas. After retiring, he and his family made their home in Killeen, Texas.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Cook is survived by a son, Steven Cook; a daughter, Tina (Kevin) Morales, and a granddaughter, Haley Morales, all of San Antonio; four brothers Donald (Jane) Cook of Marshall, David (Virginia) Cook of Battle Creek, Douglas (Susan) Cook of Tekonsha and Dennis (Eileen) Cook of Lander, Wyoming; a sister, Doreen (Robert) Misner of Marshall; his mother-in-law, Johanna Goergel, and sister-in-law, Gabriele Hebrig and their families, all of Germany.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Daniel Cook.
Graveside services were held Monday, June 12, at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. 

June 28, 2006

Ronald D. Thacker
Ronald D. Thacker, 53, of Albion, died Thursday, June 22, 2006, at his home. 
He was born August 25, 1952, in Pikeville, Kentucky, to Elvin and Delie (Stalker) Thacker. 
Mr. Thacker was a farm worker for Hoffman Farms for 30 years. He enjoyed fishing, growing things, playing bingo and especially friends and family. 
Mr. Thacker is survived by a daughter, Angela Howard of Hillsdale; two sons, Ronnie Thacker and Keith Ward of Springport; three sisters, Patty Marlowe, Tammy Birchfield and Rita Dodson, all of Albion; three brothers, Randy Thacker of Ocala, Florida, and Willard Thacker and Elvin Thacker, Jr., both of Albion; and three grandchildren.
Mr. Thacker was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, J. P. Thacker. 
A funeral service was held Tuesday, June 27, at Grace Freewill Baptist Church in Albion, with the Rev. Earl Martin officiating. 
Interment followed at Riverside Cemetery. 
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Heart or American Diabetes Associations. 
Funeral arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, Albion.

Philip David O’Dell
Philip David O’Dell, 53, of Three Rivers, died Friday, June 23, 2006, at Three Rivers Hospital in Three Rivers. 
He was born September 24, 1952, in Albion, to Clifford E. O’Dell Sr. and Beatrice (Bushong) O’Dell.
Mr. O’Dell married Sandra L. McVicker April 21, 1972, in Coldwater. She survives.
He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He loved to go mushroom hunting.
Mr. O’Dell was employed as a maintenance man at Eaton’s in Three Rivers. Prior to that he worked at Walker’s in Litchfield and Mid West Foundry in Coldwater.
In addition to his wife, Mr. O’Dell is survived by five children, Brian (Selinda) O’Dell of Reading, Jason (Tessa) O’Dell of Tekonsha, Sarah (Eric) Fogel of Homer, Ferron (Ben) Quiggle of Three Rivers, and Alexander O’Dell of Three Rivers; five grandsons, Michael, Timothy, Joshua, Andrew and Thomas; his father, Clifford E. O’Dell Sr. of Homer; and 10 brothers and sisters,  Jerry O’Dell, Reatha Richardson, Ronnie (Ida) O’Dell, Craig (Diane) O’Dell, Clifford E. O’Dell Jr., Clarence (Cammy) O’Dell, Robert (Vickie) O’Dell, Tisa O’Dell, Daniel (Mary) O’Dell and Mathew O’Dell.
Mr. O’Dell was preceded in death by his mother.
A service was held Tuesday, June 27, at Gillespie Funeral Home in Coldwater, with Pastor Larry Fulton officiating. Burial followed at Ft. Custer National Cemetery in Augusta.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Roy L. Cavender
Roy L. Cavender, 63, of Big Rapids, died Friday, June 23, at his residence.
He was a member of Carpenters Union #525 of Kalamazoo, retiring in 2000. He served with the U.S. Navy during Vietnam with Sea Bee Unit #128 and was a member of American Legion Post #0225. His hobbies included hunting, fishing and spending time with his grandchildren.
Mr. Cavender is survived by his wife Janey; a son, Rory Cavender of Homer; a daughter, Michelle “Missy” Cavender of Battle Creek; stepdaughter Xandria (Mark) Fatum of Reed City; four grandchildren, Mackenzie, Hannah, Emmy and Ethan; a brother, Jack; two sisters, Ann and Gloria; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 1, at 2 p.m. at the Pruitt-Livingston Funeral Home in Reed City, with the Rev. Connie Shoemaker officiating. Burial will follow at Oakdale Cemetery in Hersey.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Liver Foundation or the American Parkinson Foundation.
Mr. Cavender’s online obituary is available at www.pruittlivingston.com.

July 5, 2006

Wayne E. Hamilton 
Wayne E. Hamilton, 84, lifelong Litchfield area resident and farmer, died Tuesday, June 27, 2006, at the Community Health Center of Branch County.  
Mr. Hamilton was born August 28, 1921, in Litchfield, to William J. and Belle (Rainey) Hamilton, and graduated from Litchfield High School in 1939. 
He married Ruth E. Stanham January 14, 1945, and she survives.
Mr. Hamilton belonged to the M-99ers Square Dance Group, the Euchre Club, and enjoyed playing cards and dominos, and snowmobiling. A fan of stock car racing, he attended the races at Butler Speedway on Saturday nights.   
In addition to his wife, he is survived by a daughter, Sharon R. Conjurske of Rhinelander, Wisconsin; a son, Kenneth W. (Janice) Hamilton of Litchfield; 10 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Harold; a son, Bruce; and a son-in-law, Glenn Conjurske.  
Funeral services were held Friday, at the George White Funeral Home, Litchfield, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating. Interment followed in Mount Hope Cemetery, Litchfield.  
Memorial contributions to the Litchfield Methodist Church or Litchfield Area Historical Society would be appreciated.

July 12, 2006

Marie G. Bowers Brusatori
Marie G. Bowers Brusatori, 90, of Royal Oak and formerly of Butler Township, died Tuesday, June 27, 2006, in Florida.
She was born November 25, 1915, to John and Clara Bowers of Butler Township.
She married Charles F. Brusatori October 3, 1942, and he preceded her in death May 25, 1985.
Mrs. Brusatori is survived by a daughter, Christine Marlotti of Coral Springs, Florida; a son, Richard Brusatori of Oregon; two granddaughters; and two great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Brusatori was preceded in death by two brothers, Tony Bowers and John Bowers, and four sisters, Vera Rinderlee, Leanore Carson, Averil Wolf and Mildred Beerbower.
Mrs. Brusatori was buried in Whig Center Cemetery, Butler Township.
Local arrangements were handled by George White Funeral Home, Litchfield.

Donald Edward Horn
Donald Edward Horn, 68, of Litchfield, died Friday, July 7, 2006, at home.  
Mr. Horn was born October 14, 1937, in Moscow, to Henry Lewis and Lydia (Baker) Horn. 
He graduated from Litchfield High School in 1957, and retired from Simpson Industries/Metaldyne Corp.  
He married Marilyn (Covey) Gabbard July 9, 1977, and she preceded him in death in 2005.  
Mr. Horn is survived by seven sons, Donald E. (Judy) Horn II, Scott (Gina) Horn, Lewis (Sara) Horn, Dale Horn, Keith Horn, Bruce (Tracy) Horn and Gale Horn; seven stepchildren, Karen Fraki, Maggie (Jim) Ruff, Sandra (Denny) Strawser, Jan (Tom) Cushman, Diane (Maynard) Clark, Steve Gabbard and Robert Gabbard; two sisters, Elizabeth (Clay) Guy and Betty Boulis; four brothers, Richard (Nancy) Horn, Chuck (Diane) Horn, Harry (Tia) Horn and Harold Pitts; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Horn was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Martha Pitts; and a brother, Billy Horn.  
Funeral services were held Tuesday at the George White Funeral Home, Litchfield, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating. Interment followed in Mount Hope Cemetery, Litchfield.  
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Heart Association.

July 19, 2006

Dr. Derrick P. Reagle
Dr. Derrick P. Reagle, 34, died unexpectedly Thursday, July 13, 2006, in Mt. Vernon, New York.
Dr. Reagle was born May 4, 1972, in Albion, to Peter and Pamela K. (Macaluso) Reagle. He was valedictorian of the Class of 1990 at Homer High School. He was a graduate of Notre Dame University, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude. He received his doctorate from Vanderbilt University.
Dr. Reagle married Elizabeth Anne Butler February 6, 1993. She survives. 
He was an associate professor and Dean of the Economics Department for eight years at Fordham University in New York City. He dedicated his time to teaching economics, global financial markets and strategic financial markets. He wrote numerous academic publications and books. 
Dr. Reagle was a member of St. John Catholic Church, where he served as an altar boy. He was a good father, and his children were extremely important to him.
In addition to his wife and parents, survivors include two sons, Maxwell Alexander Reagle, and Jackson Tyler Reagle, both of Connecticut; a sister, Stacey (Matt) Russell of Battle Creek; a brother, Gregory (Leslie) Reagle of Homer; and grandmothers Rita Reagle of Spring Arbor and Erma Merritt of Homer.
Visitation will be Thursday, July 20, from 4-8 p.m., with a rosary at 7 p.m., at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion.
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, July 21, at St. John Catholic Church in Albion, with Father James Barrett officiating. 
Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions are suggested to an educational trust fund for Dr. Reagle’s children. 

E. Marie Coxon
E. Marie Coxon, 89, of Homer, died Sunday, July 16, 2006, at Oaklawn Hospital.
Mrs. Coxon was born August 20, 1916, in Albion, to Lyle Day and Edythe L. Wilson (Pennock) Bostwick. She married Edward DeVere Coxon May 7, 1938. He preceded her in death in 1974.
Mrs Coxon was a licensed  practical nurse for Albion Community Hospital, working in the intensive care unit. She also worked at Lakeview Hospital before retiring in 1985.
Mrs. Coxon enjoyed gardening, crocheting, birds and the outdoors. She spent most of her life in the Homer and Battle Creek areas. 
Survivors include two daughters, Jane Marie (Roger) Leonard of Battle Creek and Ruth Ann (Doug) Warner of Homer; special friends Mike and Carol Moss of Marshall; a sister, Betty Rogers of Oregon; and eight grandchildren, Rachele Beyerlein, Brent Leonard, Brad Leonard, Bart Leonard, Brian Warner, Dusty Warner, Diane Bishop and Christine Miller.
In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Coxon was preceded in death by two brothers, Kenneth and George; and a great-grandson.
Visitation will take place from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 19, at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion, and from noon until 1 p.m., Thursday, July 20, at the Albion Free Methodist Church. 
Funeral services will be at 1 p.m., Thursday, July 20, at the church, with the Rev. Ralph Bramley officiating.
Interment will follow at Spring Arbor Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Albion Free Methodist Church.

Barbara J. Butler
Barbara J. Butler, 73, of Homer, died Monday, July 17, 2006, at her home.
Mrs. Butler was born June 22, 1933, in Marshall, to Arthur and Martha (Booth) Avery. She married Delyle R. Butler August 12, 1950. He preceded her in death November 7, 2002.
Mrs. Butler worked for Gehrig Dime Store, Spring Arbor Plastic, Don Moor’s Meat, K-mart, Litchfield Thriftway and Nagle Meat in Homer. 
She enjoyed her grandchildren, sports, baking and the outdoors.
Survivors include four daughters, Susan (Ray) Ladd, Karen (John) Zimmerman, Cindy (Brent) Chamberlain, and Kathy (Steve) Lowder, all of Homer; two sons, Terry (Sue) Butler of Hanover and Mike Butler of Jackson; 17 grandchildren; and 28 great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Stewart and Alvin Avery, and a sister, Bonnie Klingeman.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, July 19, at Albion Memory Gardens, with the Rev. Mark Mitchell officiating. 
Memorials are suggested to the Homer Trojan Athletic Club.

July 26, 2006

Loretta Francis
Loretta Francis, 69, of Litchfield, died Wednesday, July 19, 2006, at the Community Health Center of Branch County, Coldwater.  
Mrs. Francis was born January 27, 1937, in Huntington, West Virginia, to Woodrow and Virgie (Smith) Hampton.  
She married David Frances in 1954, and he preceded her in death in 2000. 
Mrs. Francis retired from the former Mark I Plastics Co. in Jonesville. 
She is survived by three daughters, Penny (Chad) Vonderleigh of Hillsdale, Janet Francis of Litchfield and Tess (Ed) Dunning of Litchfield; four sons, David E. Francis and Paul Francis, both of Litchfield, Curtis (Kathy) Francis of Hillsdale and Sammy (Michelle) Francis of Homer; a brother, Woodrow (Betty) Hampton of West Virginia; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. 
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, a sister and a great-grandchild. 
Funeral services were held Monday, July 24, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating. Interment followed in Mount Hope Cemetery.

Okie Elmer Garrett
Okie Elmer Garrett, 71, of Albion, died Thursday, July 20, 2006, at his home. 
He was born December 20, 1934, in Prestonsburg, Kentucky, to George and Lila (Jerrell) Garrett. 
Mr. Garrett married Myrtle E. Woods in 1956, and she preceded him in death in 1972.
He was employed by Corning Glass from 1952 until 1975. 
Mr. Garrett enjoyed gardening, fishing, playing the guitar and boxing. He liked repairing small engines and could fix anything. He especially enjoyed watching his grandchildren play sports.
He is survived by three daughters, Mary (Jerry) Cundiff and Juanita (Terry) Compton, both of Albion, and Cibble (Jesse) Bryant of Homer; two sons, Elmer G. (Tammy) Garrett and Bob (Shawn) Garrett, both of Albion; two stepsons, Kenny (Peggy) Jerrell and James Clyde Jerrell, both of Prestonsburg, Kentucky; longtime companion Pearline Reed of Albion; her daughters, Sherry McCoy of North Carolina and Renee McCoy of Albion; and her son, J.R. Reed of New Jersey; 12 grandchildren; and 26 great-grandchildren.
Mr. Garrett was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Margaret Campbell; and three brothers, Junior, Bart and Fred Garrett.
A funeral service was held Monday, July 24, 2006, at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion. Interment followed at Chapel Cemetery in Parma.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society, National Kidney Foundation or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. (w/photo)

August 2, 2006

Evelyn R. McRae
Evelyn R. McRae, 69, of Quincy Township, died Friday, July 28, 2006, at home. She was born October 6, 1936, in Homer,  to Leo and Mary Etta (Tucker) Swan, and graduated from Litchfield High School in 1955.  
She married Ronald A. McRae January 8, 1956. He preceded her in death in 1994.
Mrs. McRae had been employed for more than 25 years at Acorn Building Components where she was a quality control supervisor. She belonged to the Quincy Union Church, serving as an elder and deacon, Sunday School teacher and member of the women’s society. She also belonged to the Red Hat Lady Sassy Classy Club, had been a Cub Scout den mother, and hostess for BIHN families. 
Mrs. McRae loved working with youth in 4-H. She was a horse club leader for many years, superintendent of horse shows at the Branch County Fair for 10 years, a member of the Michigan 4-H State Horse Show Committee 12 years and, along with her husband, was awarded the Knapp Memorial 4-H Horse Leadership Award in 1987. 
She is survived by two daughters, Teresa Brewer and Rachel (Mike) Hard, both of Quincy; three sons, Tom McRae and Jeff (Mary) McRae, both of Coldwater, and Joe McRae of Annandale, Virginia; a son-in-law, Randy Zabonick of Coldwater; three sisters, Jeanette (Art) Wilkinson of Quincy, Ellie Benjamin of Coldwater and Mary (Aldin) Tesch of Litchfield; a brother,  George (Joann) Swan of Marshall; 15 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. McRae was preceded in death by a daughter, Rhonda Zabonick; two sisters, Clara Mae Eagen and Juanita Maurer; three brothers, Charles Swan, Leo Swan Jr., and John Swan; and a granddaughter, Amber Zabonick. 
Funeral services were held Tuesday at the George White Funeral Home in Quincy, with Pastor Mark Case officiating. Interment followed in Mount Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Branch County 4-H Foundation.

Amanda L. Frederick
Amanda L. Frederick, 53, of Homer, died Saturday, July 29, 2006, at her home. 
She was born July 13, 1953, in Jackson, to Floyd and Ina (Winchell) Hulbert.
She married John Frederick July 21, 1978. He survives.
Mrs. Frederick was a homemaker and also worked for Crotty Corporation in Quincy and Quincy Laundromat. She enjoyed camping, cooking, family gatherings and especially her grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by two daughters, Christian Frederick of Litchfield and Cheryl Frederick of Homer; a son, David Hulbert of Quincy; two sisters, Ila Ballz and Linda Lambright, both of Hillsdale; a brother, Donald Hulbert of Homer; and four grandchildren.
Mrs. Frederick was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Ella Mae Marshall.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. today (Wednesday, August 2) at Lakeview Cemetery in Quincy.
Arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society.

Harriett Louise Woodliff
Harriett Louise Woodliff, 92, of Grand Rapids, died Friday, July 28, 2006, at Spectrum Hospital - Blodgett Campus, in Grand Rapids.
She was born near Homer November 5, 1913, the oldest of five children, to Russell C. and Verna (Carman) Mills.  
Mrs. Woodliff graduated from Homer High School in 1932 and from Eastern Michigan University in 1963 where she earned a B.A. degree.  
She spent 27-1/2 years teaching in Litchfield and Homer Community Schools, starting her teaching career in a nearby country school. She retired from teaching in 1976.  
Mrs. Woodliff belonged to the Michigan Education Association (MEA) and was a life member of the National Education Association (NEA).  
She married Roy S. Woodliff December 28, 1935.  They lived on a family farm northeast of Litchfield until his death in March 1991. During their life together, they shared a love of traveling and spent many winters in the Harlingen and Brownsville areas of Texas.  They were members of the Elkhart Travelers and Fireflies travel clubs, and Charter Members of the Sun Seekers and Yesterday and Today Threshers Club.   
Mrs. Woodliff had a strong faith, and was a member of the Litchfield United Methodist Church. After moving to Three Rivers in 1991, she transferred her membership to the First United Methodist Church of Three Rivers and was active in the Bethany Circle. Since 1998 she has resided at Clark Retirement Community in Grand Rapids. She enjoyed learning about and feeding the birds and promoted their protection through the Audubon Society. She was always thinking of others and sharing her gift of wisdom and understanding with others. 
She is survived by two daughters Verna (John) Kruse of Three Rivers; Hazel (Robert) Mains, of Grand Rapids; a son, Edward (Frances) Woodliff, of Lapeer; nine grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; and nine step-great-grandchildren; a brother, Carl Mills of Homer; a sister, Barbara Self of Valrico, Florida; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.  
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Woodliff was preceded in death by two sisters, Jaunita Bender and Edna Shoulders; and an infant grandson, Stephen Kruse.  
Funeral Services were held Tuesday, August 1, at the Litchfield United Methodist Church. Burial in Mount Hope Cemetery in Litchfield followed. A memorial service will be held at Clark Retirement Community Chapel Wednesday at 2 p.m. 
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Benevolent Fund at Clark Retirement Community, 1551 W. Franklin, Grand Rapids, MI 49506, or to a church of one’s choice.

Rachael E. Dooley
Rachael E. Dooley, 34, of Grand Rapids, died Sunday, July 30, 2006.
Mrs. Dooley graduated from Central Michigan University with a masters degree in physical therapy. 
She worked at Mary Free Bed as a physical therapist. She enjoyed volleyball, waterskiing, reading and she especially loved her pets. 
She is survived by her husband Gary; father Gary (Lynn) Gauger; mother, Jane (Gary) Gosling; brother Aaron (Heather) Gauger; stepbrother Maxwell Gosling; grandfather Adrian (Betty) VanderStoep; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.
Her husband is the son of John and Marguerite Dooley and a 1985 graduate of Litchfield High School.
A memorial service will be held Thursday at 3 p.m. at Knapp Street Reformed Church, 4025 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Corporate Angel Network at Westchester County Airport One Loop Road, White Plains, New York 10604. Corporate Angel Network arranges free medical flights worldwide for cancer patients.

Patricia J. “Davis” Lewis
Patricia J. “Davis” Lewis, 60, of Homer, died Sunday, July 30, 2006, at her home.
Mrs. Lewis was born June 14, 1946, in Detroit, to William and Helen Juanita (Lee) Bullock. She married Charles L. Lewis August 15, 1986. He survives.
Mrs. Lewis was a beautician in the Detroit area before relocating to the Homer/Quincy area in 1980. She attended St. Joe Baptist Church and enjoyed gardening, flowers and animals.
She especially enjoyed her children and grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, survivors include a daughter, Jerry Davis of Quincy; three sons, Jamie Bullock of Bronson, Terry (Johnna) Bullock of Tekonsha, and Shawn (Carolynn) Davis of Coldwater; a brother, Doug (Judy) Baker of Westland; 14 grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Mrs. Lewis was preceded in death by her parents, and two brothers, Jerry and Jim Bullock.
Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., Thursday, August 3, at the George White Funeral Home in Quincy. Funeral services will follow visitation at 1 p.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. Mike Hicks officiating.
Interment will follow in West Reading Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the family to offset funeral expenses.

August 9, 2006

James Estep
James E. Estep, 78, formerly of Mosherville and Litchfield, died Monday, July 30, 2006, at the McGuire Skilled Nursing Facility in Hillsdale.
Mr. Estep was born October 11, 1927, in Pike County, Kentucky, to Jake and Victoria (Mullins) Estep. He married Elmira Johnson August 2, 1943. She preceded him in death in 1998.
Mr. Estep belonged to the Little Marie Old Regular Baptist Church in Litchfield. He had been employed by Corning Glass Co. in Albion, and Addison Products in Jonesville. 
Survivors include two daughters, Fannie Jordan of Jonesville, and Betty Swander of Summerfield, Florida; a son, Thurman Estep of Hillsdale; 11 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by a daughter and two sons.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, August 2, at the Little Marie Old Regular Baptist Church, with elders Arvid Blevins and Edward Howell officiating.
Interment followed in Mosherville Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.

Elizabeth “Betty” Parker
Elizabeth A. “Betty” Parker, 83, of Homer, died Tuesday, August 1, 2006, at Oaklawn Hospital. She was born September 2, 1922, in Frankfort, to Leon Clyde and Inez Gertrude (Hoxie) Hammontree. 
She married Ora Vernon “Orrie” Parker November 11, 1939. He preceded her in death April 24, 1987.
Mrs. Parker was a homemaker and also worked at the M-60 Take-Out in Homer. She was a member of the V.F.W. Auxiliary Post #6985 in Central Lake.
She enjoyed crocheting, handcrafts, especially Christmas ornaments, and flower gardening. She also loved to play bingo.
Mrs. Parker is survived by four daughters, Dina (Jim) Schnaitman of Fife, Washington, Trudy Kemp of Puyallup, Washington, Geri Parker of Homer and Denise (Brent) Peters of Battle Creek; two sons, Butch (Marion) Parker of Central Lake and Dennis Parker of Oxford, Florida; five sisters, Jean Rausch and Margaret Carolan, both of Boyne City, and Marcia Butters, Doris McWatters and Phyllis Winnick, all of Homer; a brother, Bill Hammontree of Boyne City; nine grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a sister and two brothers.
A funeral service was held Friday, August 4, at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion. Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Jackson.

Susan Marie Howard-Cole
Susan Marie Howard-Cole, 52, of Litchfield, went to be with the Lord Thursday, August 3, 2006, in Clanton, Alabama.  She was born July 29, 1954, in Jackson, and graduated from Coldwater High School in 1972. 
She married Timothy Cole April 21, 1992, and he survives.
Mrs. Howard-Cole had worked in the janitorial and health care fields, both residential and commercial.    
In addition to her husband, she is survived by her mother, Joanne (Youse) Streeter of Coldwater; four children, Billie Sue Blanchard of Litchfield, and Karreem Howard, Ericka Lynn Blanchard and Kacee Ann Napier, all of Coldwater; two sisters, Diane Council and Michelle Baker, both of Coldwater; two brothers, Russell (Vicky) Streeter of Coldwater and Eric (Shelly) Streeter of Battle Creek; eight grandchildren, Kelsey, Morgan, Logan, Kenzie, Maycee, Alexis, Bo Hunter and Emma.
Mrs. Howard-Cole was preceded in death by her father, William Howard, and her step-father, Russell Streeter. 
Funeral services were held Monday, at Riverside Baptist Church, Homer, with Pastors Jimmy Collins and Angel Rojas officiating. Interment followed in Mount Hope Cemetery, Litchfield.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for funeral expenses, c/o George White Funeral Home, Litchfield. (w/photo)

Mildred M. Schaberg
Mildred M. Schaberg, 84, of Homer, died Saturday, August 5, 2006, at Battle Creek Health System.
She was born September 18, 1921, in Eaton Rapids, to Alfred and Jennie (Livingston) Hilliard.
She married Robert O. Schaberg February 14, 1948, and he preceded her in death August 19, 1996.
Mrs. Schaberg was a homemaker who in later years worked as a saleswoman for Hoky Sweepers. She also was a cook for Head Start and a volunteer at Homer Caring and Sharing. She attended Homer United Methodist Church. 
She enjoyed sewing, knitting, craft-related work, cooking and family gatherings. She especially enjoyed spending time with her nieces and nephews.
Mrs. Schaberg is survived by a daughter, Karen (Steve) Wells of Litchfield; a son, Ron Schaberg of Battle Creek; two sisters, Evelyn Arquette of Albion and Thelma Wayward of Marshall; and a grandson, Scott Schaberg.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Emily Pettibone.
A funeral service will be held today (Wednesday) at 11 a.m. at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Homer. Visitation was held Tuesday (August 8) from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Homer United Methodist Church, Oaklawn Hospital or the Homer Area Community Foundation. (w/photo)

Dolores J. “Dot” Waid
Dolores J. “Dot” Waid, 74, of Homer, died Saturday, August 5, 2006, at her home.
She was born April 22, 1932, in Quincy, to Cecil LeRoy and Aretta (Cain) Fowler.
She married David Waid September 7, 1948, and he survives. 
Mrs. Waid lived in her present home in Homer since 1954. She was a waitress at the Knife and Fork Restaurant as well as the A & W in Spring Arbor. She was also a nurse’s aide at both Foote and Oaklawn hospitals. She was a member of West Eckford Church, where she was treasurer, a Sunday School teacher since 1964, and nursery leader.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by a daughter, Deborah (Rudy) Orozco of Homer; two sons, David (Ruth) Waid of Cassopolis and Jeff (Linda) Waid of Homer; her mother, Aretta Fowler of Homer; a foster child, Shawna G. (Ed) Wagoner of Jackson; nine grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. 
She was preceded in death by her father and two brothers, Cecil and Lloyd Fowler.
A funeral service was held Tuesday at West Eckford Church, with the Rev. Floyd Veith officiating. Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Lung Association or West Eckford Missionary Church. Arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home of Albion.

Zelpha I. Whiting
Zelpha I. Whiting, 95, of Bronson, formerly of Homer, died Sunday evening, August 6, 2006 at Maple Lawn Medical Care Facility in Coldwater. 
She was born May 22, 1911, in Jackson, to Gordon and Cloe (Town) Nickloy and lived most of her adult life in Homer. She  lived in Bronson during her later years to be near her son. 
Mrs. Whiting first worked as a nurse’s aide for a few years, then as an Amway distributor. She enjoyed crafts. 
She is survived by a son, Marvin Lindsey of Bronson; a daughter  and son-in-law, Kay and Tom Lockard of Washington, Illinois; 14 grandchildren; at least 36 great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; and a sister, Lucy Wright of Jackson.  
Mrs. Whiting was preceded in death by her first and second husbands; a son, Herbert Lindsey in 1995; and a granddaughter. 
The family will receive friends at the Kolcz Funeral Home in Bronson from 11 a.m. today (Wednesday) until the time of service at 1 p.m., with the Rev. Jim Dyke of the Lane Boulevard Church in Kalamazoo officiating. Interment will follow in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Litchfield.

Lenard Eugene Barnett, Sr.
Lenard Eugene Barnett, Sr., 53, of Camden, formerly of Litchfield, died Sunday, August 6, 2006, at CareLink of Jackson. 
He was born June 19, 1953, in Concord, to Eugene and Haley Rose (Nichols) Barnett, and graduated from Homer High School in 1972.
He married Treasa Kleinhardt March 8, 2005. She survives.
Mr. Barnett served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam conflict and was employed 13 years at Recon of Litchfield. 
In addition to his wife, Mr. Barnett is survived by a daughter, April (A.J. Hoard) Barnett of Angola, Indiana; a son, Lenard E. (Christina) Barnett, Jr. of Camden; a step-mother, Florene Barnett of Litchfield; a sister, Onalee Waite of Bronson; three brothers, James Barnett of Coldwater, Thomas Barnett of Litchfield, and Daniel Barnett of Reading; and five grandchildren.
His parents preceded him in death.
Funeral services will be held Friday at 1 p.m. at the George White Funeral Home, Litchfield, with the Rev. Paul Bailey officiating. Interment will follow in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Litchfield.
Visitation is scheduled for Thursday from 4-7 p.m.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society.

August 16, 2006

Douglas C. Searls
Douglas C. Searls, 67, of Albion, died of complications from lung cancer Tuesday, August 8, 2006, at his home. 
Mr. Searls was born May 17, 1939, in Sioux City, Iowa, to Dwight and Gladys Searls. He served in the United States Marine Corps. 
He was an entrepreneur in a number of technology-related businesses, and he was a deacon in the First Presbyterian Church of Albion.
Mr. Searls was known locally as the husband of Maggie LaNoue, who survives.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Searls is survived by her children Charlie and Linda; his two sisters, Barbara Dyer and Virginia Weaver; and a brother, Rodney Searls.
A memorial service was held Saturday, August 12, at First Presbyterian Church, Albion. 
The family appreciates all of those who have offered prayers, cards and kind thoughts during their time of trouble. 
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the First Presbyterian Church Searls Memorial Fund.
Arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home of Albion. (w/photo)

Joyce M. Eplee
Joyce M. Eplee, 74, of Springfield, died suddenly at her home Monday, August 7, 2006.
Mrs. Eplee was born January 2, 1932, in Homer, to Clarence and Myrtie (Brown) Wilson. 
She married Netam K. Eplee February 10, 1951. He preceded her in death January 11, 1987.
Mrs. Eplee was a graduate of Homer High School and moved to the Battle Creek area in 1949, working for the Eaton Corporation in Springfield for five years. 
She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Springfield and a bowling league treasurer for 10 years. She enjoyed mushrooming, traveling on motorcycles and, above all, spending time with her family.
Mrs. Eplee is survived by three children, Michael (Sandy) Eplee of Marshall, Kathy (Gil) Lewis of Kalamazoo, and Dawn Eplee of Beloit, Wisconsin; her mother, Myrtie Wilson; six grandsons; a granddaughter; three great-grandchildren; and four brothers, Clarence Wilson, Jr., and Lloyd, Irvie and Bill Wilson.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a sister, Dodie Smith, and her father, Clarence Wilson.
In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place.
Visitation was held Tuesday, August 8, at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home. A memorial service was held Thursday, August 10, at the funeral home, with Pastor Glenn Huisinga of Faith Baptist Church officiating.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Heart Association or the American Lung Association. (w/photo)

Howard L. Lehmoine
Howard L. Lehmoine, 88, of Battle Creek, died Sunday, August 13, 2006, at Heartland Health Center of Battle Creek. 
Mr. Lehmoine was born April 27, 1918, in Battle Creek, to Leonard and Mary (Ashley) Lehmoine. 
He married Dorothy Frederick in 1973, and she preceded him in death in 1996. He was presently married to the former Flora Shores, who survives. 
Mr. Lehmoine was a 1938 graduate of St. Philip Catholic High School and was a veteran, serving in the U.S. Navy during WWII.  
He was employed as a tool grinder at Eaton Manufacturing Company for 31 years, retiring in 1980. He moved to Florida in 1980, but spent his summers in Battle Creek. 
He was a former member of the VFW #8715, was active in Bonny Shores mobile home park and enjoyed playing shuffle board.  
A graveside service will be held Friday, August 18, at 11 a.m. at Fairview Cemetery in Homer, with the Rev. Fr. Charles H.  Fischer of St. Philip Catholic Church officiating.  
Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Heart Association.

August 23, 2006

Florine G. “Flo” Coburn
Florine G. “Flo” Coburn, 52, of Homer, died Thursday, August 17, 2006, in the loving care of her family and friends at her home. 
Ms. Coburn was born July 30, 1954, in Concord, to Victor and Ernestine (Stiltner) Tackett.
She worked for Metaldyne in Litchfield as a CNC machinist for 13 years. She also worked for Albion Industries, Litchfield Nursing Centre and Erie House in Albion. 
She attended Grace Freewill Baptist Church. She enjoyed many things - games of chance, traveling, the outdoors, animals, and collecting porcelain dolls and angels - but most of all her children and grandchildren. 
Ms. Coburn is survived by two daughters, Tina (Ken) Walter of Homer and Shawn (Chris) Peters of Homer; two sons, Michael (Katrina) Coburn of Albion and Merlin Coburn of Homer; a special companion, Richard Miller of Homer; a sister, Linda Griffiths of Homer, a special friend, Kay Tackett of Homer; her godmother Sue Stiltner of Jonesville; and six  grandchildren. 
Ms. Coburn was preceded in death by her parents and a special aunt and uncle, Phyllis McDaniels and Russell Tackett. 
Funeral services were held Monday, August 21, at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion. Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society or Calhoun County Humane Society.

Sally J. Wagner
Sally J. Wagner, 67, of Litchfield, died Friday, August 18, 2006, at home.
She was born July 6, 1939, in Litchfield, to Harold and Zella (Gephart) Wade.  
She married Merle Wagner July 11, 1958. He preceded her in death.
Mrs. Wagner belonged to the Litchfield Congregational Church and was a former Rebekah Lodge member. She was also a very active “sports mother and grandmother” who enjoyed watching her children and grandchildren in school sporting activities. 
She is survived by a daughter, Andrea (Kevin) Fox-Collins of Litchfield; a son, Michael (Tracy) Wagner of St. Joseph; two sisters, Virgalee (Bob) Van Arsdalen of Litchfield and Ardith Hawley of Boyne City; four grandchildren, Jordan Fox and Sydney, Simon and Sophie Wagner; and two step grandchildren, Derek and Amanda Collins.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Wagner was preceded in death by a sister, Judy Abright. 
Visitation was scheduled for Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield. Graveside services will be today (Wednesday) at 11 a.m., at Mount Hope Cemetery in Litchfield, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating. 
Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Hillsdale County, the American Cancer Society, or the American Heart Association.

Harry Leon Richards
Harry Leon Richards, 69, of Homer, died Wednesday, August 2, 2006, at Foote Hospital in Jackson.
He was born December 16, 1936, in Parma, to William C. and Louise (Miller) Richards.
Mr. Richards married Lilly Mae Dougherty March 22, 1969, and she survives.
He worked at General Motors for 22 years as a machinist. He served his country for one year in the U.S. Navy and for nine years in the National Guard. 
Mr. Richards was a member of the Elks Lodge. He enjoyed bingo, euchre, camping, hunting and fishing. He especially enjoyed ice fishing and having dinners with the family.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by four daughters, Rebecca Joann Robinson of Allen Park, Patricia Sue Benore of Albion, Diana Bommarito of Jacksonville, Florida, and Dawn Brodie of Wayne; two sons, John Grady of Jackson and Jimmy Richards of Homer; three sisters, Lorraine Parrett of Parma, and Winifred O’Dell and Elizabeth Wonus, both of Homer; a brother, Russell Richards of Albion; 12 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Mr. Richards was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Clifford Hall; and a sister, Joyce Richards.
A memorial service will be held Tuesday, August 29, at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion, with the Rev. David Cornwell officiating. Interment will follow at Albion Memory Gardens. There will be no visitation.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Diabetes Association. (w/photo)

Ada L. George
Ada L. George, 49, of Homer, died Saturday, August 19, 2006, at Lifespan Hospice in Battle Creek.
She was born July 25, 1957, in Tazwell, Tennessee, to Lillian (Robbins) and Clifford Owens.
Ms. George was a homemaker. She really enjoyed her grandsons and enjoyed playing pool on a league for Jay’s. 
She is survived by a daughter, Tiffany LePeak of Homer; a son, Danny George of Homer; a son-in-law, Toby LePeak of Jackson; two sisters, Brenda (Sam) Allen and Rhonda (Greg) Hawley, both of Homer; a brother, Doug (Tammy) Owens of Marshall; and two grandsons, Taylen LePeak and Codee George.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
A funeral service will be held today (Wednesday) at 1 p.m. at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion, with Pastor Dennis Dickson officiating. 
Interment will be at Riverside Cemetery. Visitation was held Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. 
Memorial contributions are suggested to Lifespan Hospice.

August 30, 2006

Marie E. Norton
Marie E. Norton, 87, of Homer, died Wednesday, August 23, 2006, at Colonial House in Marshall. 
Mrs. Norton was born October 27, 1918, in Homer Township, to Charles I. and Lula (Bayn) Holmes. 
She married Carl Norton May 21, 1938. He preceded her in death in August 1982. 
Mrs. Norton was a homemaker and lifelong resident of Homer. She was a member of Stella Chapter #140 of Eastern Star, Homer Firebelles and Homer Presbyterian Church, where she ran the nursery for six years. She enjoyed sewing, quilting and collecting salt and pepper shakers. 
She is survived by three daughters, Sharron (Charles) Edler of Homer, Betsy (Tom) Tucker of Marshall, and Barb (Scott) Anderson of Coldwater; two sons, William (Judy) Norton of North Carolina and James (Nancy) Norton of Black Lake; a son-in-law, Bill Cortright of Homer; three sisters, Dorothy Avery and Shirley Gregg, both of Homer, and Marjorie Bunnell of Canton; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her daughter Nancy Cortright; four sisters, Marguerite, Ruth, Grace and Doris; and two brothers, Kenneth and Gerald. 
Funeral service was held Saturday, August 26, at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion, with Pastor Mark Mitchell officiating. 
Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery in Homer. 
Memorial contributions are suggested to Southern Care Hospice or donor’s choice. 

September 6, 2006 - No Obituaries

September 13, 2006

Melvin Elmer Cheney
Melvin Elmer Cheney, 96, of Litchfield, died  Wednesday, September 6, 2006, at his home.
Mr. Cheney was born June 8, 1910, in Gobles. He married Letha Switzer in 1938, and she survives.
Mr. Cheney was a retired automobile machinist, specializing in a hobby of restoring model A engines. He had owned Cheney’s Cities Service Station in Jackson through the World War II era.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons, Rohn Cheney of Litchfield and Clarence (Alice) Cheney of Gaylord; a daughter, Sandra (Robert) Newcomer of Kalama-zoo; nine grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.
A graveside service was held Saturday, September 9, at the Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci, with Pastor Steven Read officiating. 
Funeral arrangements were handled by George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the First Baptist Church of Hillsdale.

Robert D. Vincent
Robert D. Vincent, 78, of Battle Creek and formerly of Homer, died Sunday, September 10, 2006, after a one  year battle with cancer.
Mr. Vincent was born on February 8, 1928, in Homer. He and his wife Kathleen Estelle Vincent were married for 59  years, and she survives.
Mr. Vincent retired as vice president of the Industrial Lift Truck Service. He received numerous sales awards during his tenure. Prior to that employment, he worked for Battle Creek Motor Parts as an independent service station owner.
Mr. Vincent was a member and former president of the Lakeview Lions Club, and was named the 1975 Lion of the Year. He was also a former president of the Homer Community Alumni School Banquet.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by a daughter, Deborah V. Collins of New York; a son, Richard B. Vincent of Colorado; five grandchildren, Michel L. Vincent, Michael R. Vincent, Danielle K. Vincent, Paige E. Collins and Kathleen P. Vincent; three great-grandchildren, Jessica, Carlena and Corey; two sisters, Donna Bowersox and Donna Taylor; and a brother, Russell Vincent.
He was preceded in death by a son, Dennis R. Vincent; and three brothers; Richard, Harold and Warren Vincent.
Visitation is Wednesday from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home in Battle Creek.
Funeral services will be held Thursday at 11 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Homer.
Interment will follow at the Cooks Prairie Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial Contributions are suggested to the Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice Residence in Battle Creek. (w/photo)

September 20, 2006

Reverend Larry L. Fulton
The Rev. Larry L. Fulton, 67, of Bedford Township, died Wednesday, September 13, 2006,  in Wheat Ridge, Colorado.
Rev. Fulton was born  October 14,  1938, in Lansing, to George and Lucile (Barker) Fulton.
He married Betty Williams on November 2, 1961, and she survives.
Rev. Fulton worked as a printer in Lansing for 15 years. He graduated from Grand Rapids School of Bible and Music in 1969. He was the pastor of Cook’s Prairie Baptist Church in Homer for 15 years. 
Currently, he was pastor of Bedford Bible Church, where he had been for 19 years. Rev. Fulton was a volunteer with Good Samaritan Hospice and worked in jail ministry. He enjoyed stamp and coin collecting, hunting, fishing, morning coffee groups and sharing humor. Most of all he loved helping people.
He is survived by three sons, Joel (Elizabeth) Fulton  and Jared (Vicki) Fulton, both of Battle Creek, and John (Adine) Fulton of Denver, Colorado; brother Jack (Renee) Fulton of Grove-spring, Missouri; and six grandchildren,  David, Blake, Tristin, Carsten, Ethan  and Eryn.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, September 19, at the Bedford Bible Church in Bedford Township, with Pastor Kevin McCarty officiating. Interment followed at the Bedford Township Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Bedford Bible Church or Good Samaritan Hospice.

Donna Mae Sprague
Donna Mae Sprague, 78, of Litchfield, died Sunday, September 17, 2006, at home.
Mrs. Sprague was born February 21, 1928, in Alger, Ohio to Rollie and Bertha (Newland) King. 
Her hobbies included knitting, bird watching, flowers and nature.
Survivors include two daughters, Linda (Rene) Miller of Homer, and Julia (Ron) Shaw of Tennessee; three sons, Ronnie (Carol) Sprague of Quincy, Kenneth Sprague of Concord and David (Della) Brewer of Colorado; three sisters, Helen Drake and Ruth Lee, both of Ohio, and Beverly (Joe) Wingenback of Florida; two brothers, Robert (Pat) King of Eaton Rapids and Joseph Richter of Florida; 16 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents and three brothers, Melvin, Lewis and Eldon King.
Visitation is scheduled for today (Wednesday) at 11 a.m. until the time of service at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield. Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday at Maple Grove Cemetery in Concord.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Lung Association.

September 27, 2006

Earl Hunt
Earl Hunt, 75, of Homer, died Monday, September 18, 2006, at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo.
Mr. Hunt was born August 27, 1931, in Edo, Kentucky, to Irland and Nona (Ward) Hunt.
He married Vercie Bishop  October 14, 1948, in Pikeville, Kentucky, and she survives.
Mr. Hunt was  a member of the Church of Christ in Marshall and enjoyed gardening and hunting.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by a son, Craig Hunt of Homer; three daughters, Connie (Joe) Shaw and Jo Anne (Dennis) Johnson, both of Jonesville, and Rebecca (Mike) Tackett of Homer; three sisters, Gayrene May of Bidwell, Ohio, Brookise Stem of North Adams,  and Doris Ball of Columbus, Ohio; five brothers, Steeril Hunt of Columbus, Ohio, John F. Hunt of Atlanta, Georgia, Troy Hunt of Kimper, Kentucky, Jack Hunt of Ewington, Ohio, and Ireland Hunt Jr. of Bidwell, Ohio; two half brothers, Raymond Hunt of Kentucky and Bud Hunt of Albion; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Viola; a sister, Sarah; and a half sister, Hazel Hunt.
Funeral services were held Thursday, September 21, at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, with Pastor John Torrey officiating. Interment followed at Bentley Corners Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the organization of the donor’s choice.

Blanche E. Allen 
Blanche Eileen Allen, 98, died Monday, September 18, 2006, at her home in Homer.
Mrs. Allen was born January 12, 1908, in Gregory, to Henry and Christine (Denton) Howlett. She graduated from Kalamazoo College in 1931, and began her first teaching job in Gregory Township, a one room, rural schoolhouse, teaching kindergarten through eighth grade.
 She went on to teach at Wright School and then in Fowlerville. In 1957, she returned to teaching in Homer and loved every moment.
She married  A.E. (Al) Allen in 1935. Soon after their marriage they  managed the Dancer Department store in Elsie. They were then offered a management position at a larger Dancer store in Durand, where they stayed until buying George Court Men’s and Ladies’ Ready-Wear in Homer with her brother Clifford in 1942. It became Howlett and Allen’s and later Allen’s Department Store.
Mrs. Allen was a strong supporter of her family, her school, the Homer community and the First Presbyterian Church. She was a charter member of the Homer Caring and Sharing and the Child Study Club. She was the first cancer drive chairperson for Homer and taught financial management to 4-H groups. 
She was on the board and worked for Oba-Oka Campfire Girls. In later years, she assisted with the food bank and senior citizens’ lunch and delivery program. Mrs. Allen served as an elder and in many capacities for her church until recently.
She was a lively and loving parent, grandparent, and, more recently, great-grandparent. She was a source of constant strength and support for most everyone who knew her, especially her family. She adored her friends, and she and Al spent many happy days, evenings and trips with them.
Reading and following sports (Trojans, Tigers, Lions, and University of Michigan Wolverines) were great fun for her. Mrs. Allen kept up to date with all the current events and was interested in learning every day of her life.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Al in  1996; two sisters, Daisy (Rob) Dancer and Charlotte (Stanley) Knight; and two brothers, Tom (Leanna) Howlett and Dan (Frances) Howlett.
She is survived by a daughter, Jane (Jerry) Gilbert; two brothers, Clifford (Gertrude) Howlett and Dick (Mayrene) Howlett;  two grandchildren, Allen (Kristi) Slater and Sarah (Mike) Isham; four step-grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and six step-great-grandchildren.
A celebration of her life will be held  today (Wednesday, September 27) at the Homer First Presbyterian Church at 1 p.m., with a light lunch following. Interment will be at the Oaklawn Cemetery in Stockbridge.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Homer Presbyterian Church, the Homer Area Community Foundation or the Homer Public Library.

Tammy A. Garrett
Tammy A. Garrett, 46, of Albion, died Wednesday, September 20, 2006, at her daughter’s home.
Mrs. Garrett was born September 13, 1960, to Stanley and Emo Jene (Robinette) Meeks. She married Elmer G. Garret  January 10, 1976, and he survives.
Mrs. Garrett was a homemaker and enjoyed working for Oaks Property Management in Albion. She also had worked for Parma Products, Team One Plastics, and D.C. Products.
She was a former member of the Southern United Baptist Church. Mrs. Garrett enjoyed fishing, horseshoes and especially her grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by a daughter, Steancy Garrett of Albion; three sons, Elmer Gene (Michelle) Garret, Henry (Nicole Austin) Garrett, and Scotty (Tneasia) Garrett, all of Albion; her mother, Emo Jene Meeks of Albion; five sisters, Diane (Tom Nelson) of Homer, and Ellen (Calvin) Riddle, Debbie Ingiosi, Robin Fisher, and Tina Meeks, all of Albion; two brothers, Stan Meeks of Homer and Ted Meeks, of Tekonsha; and 15  grandchildren.
She was proceeded in death by her father.
A funeral service was held Saturday, September 23, at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion, with Reverend Earl Martin officiating. Interment followed at Riverside Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Larry D. Peters
Larry D. Peters, 68, of Burlington and formerly of Homer, died Friday, September 22, 2006, at Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo.
Mr. Peters was born September 6, 1938, in Homer, to Roy E. “Pete” and Darlene Agnes “Dot” (O’Dell) Peters. He married Kay M. Shrontz in Homer.
Mr. Peters was a lifelong resident of southern Michigan. He was a U.S. Army veteran, and was formerly employed at Union Steel in Albion. He later worked at Eaton’s in Marshall for 30 years as a machinist, retiring in 2000. 
He was a former member of the Albion Elks Lodge #1798 and Albion Moose Lodge. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, cards, keno and board games.
He is survived by his ex-wife,  Kay; a son, Mike (Kathy) Peters of Marshall; two daughters, Lori Duke of Homer and Melinda (Jay) Weaver of Marshall; six grandchildren, Jonathan Holbrook, Branden Holbrook, Emily Peters, Bryar Peters, Bryce Weaver, and Arlena Weaver; two brothers, Duane (Ruth) Peters of Albion and Frank (Edna) Peters of Homer. 
He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter; a son-in-law, Tom Duke; and three brothers, Merle, Earl and Charles Peters.
Funeral service were held  at 1 p.m. Tuesday, September 26, at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, with Pastor Otis Lang officiating. Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

October 4, 2006

Leo R. McMillen
Leo R. McMillen, 85, of Litchfield, died Wednesday, September 27, 2006, at his home.
Mr. McMillen was born May 4, 1921, in Lansing, to Fred and Melissa (Conn) McMillen.
He married Mary Cox May 18, 1946, and she survives.
Mr. McMillen graduated from Hanover High School in 1939. He was a farmer and an employee of Simpson Industries and Union Steel Company.
He belonged to the Moose Lodge of Marshall, Sons of the Revolution, Jackson Teamster Retiree’s Club Chapter 5, Litchfield United Methodist Church and the Litchfield Farm Bureau.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Ann (Mike) Mate of Coldwater and Lois (Mike) Pittsley of Mt. Pleasant; two sons, Fred (Lorna) McMillen of Homer and Ray (Pat) McMillen of Jackson; 12 grandchildren, Kristen (Dawayne) Murphy, Karen and Rick McMillen, all of Homer, Melissa Mate of Angola, Indiana, and Rob  and Adam Mate of Coldwater, Matthew and Jamie McMillen of Jackson, Joshua, Marissa, Nathan, and Kaley Pittsley, all of Mt. Pleasant; four great-grandchildren; special cousins, Gayle and Louella Adams of Litchfield; and special friends, Tim and Tricia Masarik of Litchfield.
He was preceded in death by a foster sister, Barbara Crowley.
Funeral services were held Saturday, September 30, at the Litchfield United Methodist Church, with the Reverend Carl Litchfield officiating. Interment followed at Mount Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
Funeral arrangements were handled by George White Funeral Home of Litchfield.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Litchfield United Methodist Church or a charity of one’s choice.

October 11, 2006

Barbara Jean LaRoe
Barbara Jean LaRoe, 76, of Pulaski Township, died Sunday, October 8, 2006, at her daughter’s home under the loving care of her family and hospice.
Mrs. LaRoe was born June 16, 1930, in Detroit, to  Howard H. and Ida M. (Ross) Warner of Homer. She married Robert Gene LaRoe September 4, 1948, and he survives.
She is survived by her parents; three daughters, Joann (Jim) Hawkins of Quincy, Sherry (Dennis) Frasier of Litchfield and Kathy A. LaRoe and James E. Newsome of Coldwater; four sons, Robert W. (Sandy) LaRoe of Hillsdale, John P. (Laura) LaRoe of San Antonio, Texas, Danny G. (Kathy S.) LaRoe of Homer and Howard E. (Laurie) LaRoe of Quincy; 31 grandchildren, 45 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by  a son, Michael LaRoe; a  daughter Diana LaRoe; and five grandchildren.
Visitation will be Thursday from noon until 2 p.m. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 2 p.m., at the George White Funeral Home, in Litchfield, with Reverend Carl Litchfield officiating. 
 Interment in  King Cemetery, Pulaski Township, will take place at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to Great Lakes Hospice.

Lonza Burke, Jr.
Lonza Burke, Jr., 68, of Litchfield, formerly of Albion, died Monday, October 9, 2006, in Coldwater Hospital.
Mr.. Burke was born October 29, 1938, in Pike County, Kentucky, to Lonza and Maxie (Casebolt) Burke. 
He owned Superior Florist in Albion and also owned a greenhouse. He was active in foster care at the Erie House. 
Mr. Burke  enjoyed hunting and fishing.
He is survived by a sister, Fontella Mann of Homer; four brothers, Gary Newsome of Homer, Grover (Betty) Burke of Coldwater, Garner Burke of Quincy and Craig Mullins of Litchfield; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by four brothers, Orville, Dempsey, Nolan and Jerrel  Burke; and two sisters, Patsy Bryant and Annie Izzard.
Visitation will be today (Wednesday) from 4-8 p.m at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion. Funeral services will be held Thursday, at 1 p.m., at the funeral home, with Pastor Walter H. Nichols, Jr. officiating. 
Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery.

October 18, 2006

Mornie Porter
Mornie Porter, 65, of Jackson, formerly of Albion, died Tuesday, October 10, 2006, at her home with her family by her side.   
Mrs. Porter was born July 11, 1941, in Ivyton, Kentucky, to Albert and Goldie (Blair) Marshall. 
She married Kenneth D. Porter  in Tekonsha in 1968. He preceded her in death on July 18, 2002.
Mrs. Porter came to Michigan in 1944. She was a member of Church of Christ in Albion, a former employee of Albion Manor and a citizen band radio operator. Her handle was “Moon Kitten.”  
She was an avid crocheter, giving afghans to family and friends, and donating them to Albion Manor and Hospice.  She especially enjoyed crocheting red, white and blue afghans, an expression of her love and devotion to her country.
She is survived by a son, David Hamilton of Tekonsha; four daughters, Karen Sue (Jimmie) Ward of Springport, Rebecca Jean Hamilton of Portage, Brenda Lee Smith of Jackson and Tammy Marie Davis of Homer; a special son-in-law, Rob Huckfeldt; eight grandchildren, Keith, Ray, Travis, Jennifer, Bobby, Ben, C.J. and Shimar; a great-grandson, Matthew; three sisters, Candy, Hazel and Chris; and three brothers, Albert, Cletus and Junior.  
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a brother, Adis “Bud”; a sister, Ethel; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held Friday, October 13, at the Albion Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, with Pastor Jerry Cox officiating. Interment followed at Riverside Cemetery.  
Memorials contributions may  be made to the family. (w/photo)

Edna M. Demaris
Edna M. Demaris, 94, of Litchfield, died Wednesday, October 11, 2006, at Country Meadows AFC Home in Montgomery.
Mrs. Demaris was born October 15, 1911,  in Cairo, Illinois, to Edward and Jorena (Steagala) Bambrick.
She graduated from high school in Cairo, Illinois, and resided in Auburndale, Florida, for 32 years.
She is survived by two sons, James Stewart, of Alton, Illinois and Phil (Barbara) Stewart of Litchfield; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by two husbands, John Stewart (1961) and Douglas Demaris (1998); a brother, Bill Bambrick; and a sister, Gail Ritchie.
Funeral services were held Saturday, October 14, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with Father Brian Stanley officiating. Interment in Winter Haven, Florida, will be at a later date.

October 25, 2006

Maurine Sinclair
Maurine Sinclair, 98, of Marshall, formerly of Homer, died Sunday, October 22, 2006, at her residence.
Mrs. Sinclair was born November 22, 1907, in Grand Rapids, to Floyd and Georgia Cilley. 
She married Paul Sinclair in East Lansing in 1930. He preceded her in death in 1963.
Mrs. Sinclair had been a resident of Marshall since 1989. She had resided in Switzerland for 28 years. 
She was a graduate of Homer High School and of Eastern Michigan University.
Mrs. Sinclair taught in Milford Public Schools for 20 years. She was an organizing guardian for the Oba-Oka Campfire Girls of Homer and supervised the building of the Oba-Oka Camp Fire Building in Homer.
She is survived by two nephews, Wayne (Nancy) Chapman of Battle Creek and David (Kellyn) Chapman of Rocklin, California; two nieces, Pauline (George) Glance of Brigham City, Utah and Kay Vanderford of Homer.
According to her wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation or services.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels.

November 1, 2006

Duane A. Christophel
Duane A. Christophel, 66,  of Homer, died  Tuesday, October 24, 2006, at Tendercare in Marshall.
Mr. Christophel was born June 23, 1940, in Calhoun County, to Frederick and Doris (Blakeman) Christophel. 
He married Grace Bradley June 20, 1964, and she survives.
He served his country in the U.S. Army. He was a computer programmer and data processor who worked for several years at  Calhoun Foundry, retiring due to ill health. He also had worked at Albion Industries and Starr Commonwealth.
He enjoyed hunting and fishing and was a member of the N.R.A., North American Hunt Club, Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever and was vice president of Save Homer Lake Foundation. Mr. Christophel also enjoyed farming and sports, especially bowling.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by a daughter, Marie (Randy) Castle, of Litchfield; two sons, Duane (Beverly) Christophel, Jr. and William Frederick (Patti) Christophel, both of Homer; five step-grandchildren; and 10 step-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Frederick W. Christophel, and a grandchild.
A graveside service was held Saturday, October 28, at Cook’s Prairie Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Homer Area Community Foundation.

Danny L. “Frosty Dan” Earl
Danny L. “Frosty Dan” Earl, 70, of Albion, died Thursday, October 26, 2006, at his home.
Mr. Earl was born March 22, 1936,in Homer, to Milo Kenneth and Helen (Hardt) Earl.
He married Naomi Mae McDonald June 12, 1954, in Coldwater. She preceded him in death March 6, 1983.
Mr. Earl had been a resident of the area all his life. He was a butcher in Albion for National, and later meat manager for Felpausch in Albion, then becoming assistant manager.
He built Frosty Dan’s Ice Cream Store on Eaton Street and also ran The Dairy Bar on Superior Street, running both locations at the same time.
After retiring, he was a message therapist in Marshall at the Design Studio East. His hobbies included his yard, gardening, fishing and going to Butler Motor Speedway every weekend.
 He is survived by a son, Dan (Ann) Earl of Marshall; three daughters, Denise L. Earl of Albion, Dan (Deanna) LaFleur of Marshall, and Tom (Kimberly A.) Claringbold of Clare; 10 grandchildren, Amanda (Aaron) Zienert, Ashley Markovich, Emily and Elizabeth LaFleur, Dylan, Dalton, Katie and Kelly Earl, and Tom and Carys Claringbold; a great-granddaughter, Callie Case; a brother, Doug (Karen) Earl of Marshall; three sisters, Norma Lautenslager of Marshall, Joyce Norton of Lake Odessa and Allen (Sherie) Buckingham of Bedford. 
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by a brother, Kenneth; and his parents.
Graveside services will be held Thursday at 1 p.m. at the West Eckford Cemetery, with Pastor Walter Nichols, Jr. officiating.
Friends and family may call today (Wednesday) at the Albion Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Albion Community Foundation.

November 8, 2006

Debra (King) Hayward
Debra (King) Hayward, 53, of Litchfield, died Monday, October 30, 2006, at the Hillsdale Community Health Center. 
Mrs. Hayward was born July 3, 1953, in Hillsdale, to Arthur B. and Cleo G. (Chamberlain) King.
She married Paul. E. Hayward July 31, 1971, and he survives.
She graduated from Litchfield High School in 1971. Mrs. Hayward had worked at Harvard Clothing Company in Litchfield.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by two daughters, Kristine (John) Blakley of Hanover and Nichole Hayward of Homer; four grandchildren, Kayla Argyle and Courtney, Emilee and Jenna Blakley; her mother, Cleo G. King of Litchfield; mother-in-law, Lucie Hayward of Coldwater; three brothers, Arthur W. King and Loren E. King, both of Litchfield, and Philip (Sue) King of Ann Arbor.
She was preceded in death by her father and grandparents.
Funeral services were held Friday, November 3, at the George While Funeral Home in Litchfield, with Pastor Michael Murray officiating.
Interment followed at the Mount Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Litchfield District Library.

Hazel Sturgill
Hazel Sturgill, 78, of Albion, died Thursday, November 2, 2006, at Oaklawn Hospital.
Mrs. Sturgill was born August 20, 1928, in Sampson County, North Carolina, to Estel and Mary (Daniel) Hairr.
She was first married to Harry Purucker. She then married Arthur Sturgill September 11, 1958. He preceded her in death November 17, 2002.
Mrs. Sturgill was a homemaker who also worked as an inspector at Corning Glass for 22 years. She was a member of Riverside Baptist Church in Homer and had attended many area churches.
Mrs. Sturgill enjoyed crocheting, sewing, yard work, gardening and helping on the family farm.
She is survived by two daughters, Joan (Kent) Sadger and Paulette (John) Gillis, both of Albion; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Teresa Purucker Paugh; and a brother, Clebert Hairr.
Funeral services were held Monday, November 6, at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion, with Pastor Jimmy Collins officiating.
Interment  followed at  Albion Memory Gardens. 
Memorial contributions may be made to the Riverside Baptist Church in Homer.

David A. Perkins
David A. Perkins, 47, of Homer, died Friday, November 3, 2006, at Foote Hospital in Jackson.
Mr. Perkins was born December 20, 1958, in Marshall, to Millis and Cora (Harper) Perkins.
He married Renee Duke June 29, 2002, and she survives.
Mr. Perkins worked at Union Steel in Albion as a welder. He had also worked at Yukon & Jessco in Litchfield and Dexter Axle in Fremont, New Jersey.
He enjoyed the outdoors, bicycling and construction projects. Mr. Perkins also enjoyed spending time with his family.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by two daughters, Jessica (Jason) Miller of Quincy and Jennifer Perkins of Homer; two sons, Jeremy Perkins of Homer and Keith (Melody) Duke of Camden; his mother, Cora Perkins of Homer; four sisters, Roberta Ratliff of Homer, Geraldine Wheller of West Liberty, Kentucky, Mureline Fletcher of Angola, Indiana and Debbie Timberman of Homer; four brothers, James Perkins, Orval Perkins and Carles Perkins, all of Homer,  and Richard Perkins of Albion; and eight grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his father.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, November 7, at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion, with the Reverend Abe Prater officiating.
Interment followed at Oak Grove Cemetery in Coldwater.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Clarence F. Wolfe
Clarence F. Wolfe, 85, of Litchfield, died Saturday, November 4, 2006, at Hillsdale County Medical Care Facility. 
Mr. Wolfe was born October 23, 1921, in Litchfield, to Jud and Queen Wolfe.
He served his country during World War II as a staff sergeant of the 119th Field Artillery. He returned to the U.S. with his Dutch bride, Hendrika (Annie) van de Weerd, and they made their home in Litchfield.
He served as a Litchfield volunteer fireman and was a long-time Rotary Club member. Mr. Wolfe established Wolfe Lumber Company and owned Wolfe Construction Company, providing employment to many men in the community.
Mr. Wolfe brought his wife’s family - mother, father and younger brother, Johan van de Weerd, to the United States to complete their family circle.
American Central Corporation recognized Mr. Wolfe’s negotiating ability and his land development skills by promoting him to Vice President of Acquisition and Development.
He and his son Harry started a family farm known as C & H farms. Mr. Wolfe volunteered on the Litchfield City Council and served as city manager and Director of the Litchfield TIFA board.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Hendrika (Annie) Wolfe; two daughters, Betty Leinbach and Peggy Tracy; a son, Harry (Julie Smith) Wolfe; three grandchildren, Pete Wolfe, Caroline Wolfe and Kurt Leinbach, a great-grandchild, BreAnna Leinbach; two sisters, Vivian (George) Crist and Joyce (Walt) Carlson; and a brother, Jud (Marian) Wolfe.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Robert (June) Wolfe.
Visitation was scheduled for Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.
Funeral services will be held today (Wednesday) at 1 p.m. at the Litchfield United Methodist Church. Interment will follow in Mount Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Hillsdale County Medical Care Facility.

Michael W. Cunkle
Michael W. Cunkle, 50, of Ft. Wayne, Indiana, and formerly of Homer, passed away Sunday, November 5, 2006, at his home.
Mr. Cunkle was born in Albion November 17, 1955, to Harold L. and Mary Lou (Miller) Cunkle. 
He married Bonnie Moyer March 24, 2001, and she survives.
Mr. Cunkle was a 1974 graduate of Homer High School. He worked for Fisher Body in Kalamazoo since 1974. He then worked at General Motors in Fort Wayne, Indiana, from 1987 until the present.
Mr. Cunkle was a member of the U.A.W. He enjoyed fishing, camping, vacations and bird watching, and he loved to play guitar with his brothers.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by five daughters, Michelle Dykstra of Battle Creek, Angela Mills of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Sonny Cunkle of Homer, Victoria Cunkle of Coldwater and Valerie Burns of Spring Arbor; two sons, Michael Cunkle and Kurtis Cunkle, both of Coldwater; his parents Harold and Mary Lou Cunkle of Homer; four brothers, Jim (Terri) Cunkle of Homer, Steve Cunkle of Fremont, Indiana, Dan (Terri) Cunkle of Jonesville and David (Lisa) Cunkle of Homer; and eight grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents.
Visitation was held Tuesday from 5-8 p.m. at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion.
Funeral services will be held today (Wednesday) at 3 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family. (w/photo)

November 15, 2006

Helen M. Hakes
Helen M. Hakes, 74, of Jackson, formerly of Homer, died Tuesday, November 7, 2006, at Foote Hospital in Jackson.
Mrs. Hakes was born August 11, 1932, in Quincy, to Lloyd F. and Ruth Alice (Manchester) Sowles. 
She married Carlton Hepler Hakes June 1, 1969, in Homer. He preceded her in death September 26, 1988.
Mrs. Hakes worked for 18 years at Blue Ribbon Laundry in Battle Creek and at the Jackson prison office. She was a member of Westwood Church of God.
She is survived by a son, Jahn Karl Hakes of Albion, and a sister-in-law, Donna Crofoot of South Lyon. 
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a brother, Lester Mac Sowles.
A graveside funeral service was held Friday, November 10, at Bentley’s Corners Cemetery in Clarendon Township, with Pastor William Redman officiating.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels.
Memorial contributions may be made to the donor’s choice.

Geral D. Buchanan
Geral D. Buchanan, 71, of Albion, died Sunday, November 5, 2006, at her home.
Mrs. Buchanan was born June 17, 1935, in Arkansas, to Howard and Beulah (Staley) Kemp.
She married James Buchanan, who preceded her in death in 1996.
Mrs. Buchanan worked as a secretary and timekeeper for Lonergan’s in Albion. She also worked for Montgomery Ward and State Farm Insurance in Marshall.
She was a member of the Albion Assembly of God and enjoyed painting pictures, reading and dining out.
She is survived by a son, Lance (Barbara) Bodner of Homer; three sisters, Glenda (Richard) Sheeks and Jeannie Holden, both of Albion, and Sue (Larry) Hatch of Olympia, Washington; a brother, Howard Kemp of Wingo, Kentucky; six grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Rebecca Bieske; a sister, Gertude Seals; and a brother, Bill Kemp.
A memorial service was held Monday, November 13, at Grace Freewill Baptist Church in Albion, with the Reverend Earl Martin officiating.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Olga I. Collmenter
Olga I. Collmenter, 70, of Homer, died Tuesday, November 7, 2006, at her home.
Mrs. Collmenter was born January 2, 1936, in Albion Township, to Egnat and Anna (Silvoskey) Egnatuck.
She married Harold Collmenter June 23, 1956, and he survives.
Mrs. Collmenter was a teacher at Homer Elementary School for 25 years. She also taught at an Arkansas Air Force base for 11 years.
She was a member of Cook’s Prairie Baptist Church, the Retired Teachers Association of Calhoun County and Eckford Township Neighborhood Watch.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by two daughters, Deborah Ruth Collmenter of Homer and Mary Elizabeth (Daniel) O’Dell of Tennessee; a son, Jacob (Melissa) Collmenter of  Homer; two sisters, Katie Carl and Dorothy Peacock, both of Homer; two brothers, Mike (Carol) Egnatuck of Albion and Tony (Jennie) Egnatuck of East Lansing; and five grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Mary Ann; and three brothers, George, Paul and Alex.
Funeral services were held Friday, November 10, at Cook’s Prairie Baptist Church in Homer, with Pastor Tom Merrick officiating.
Interment followed at Albion Memorial Gardens.
Funeral arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Cook’s Prairie Baptist Church Building Fund or the American Cancer Society.

Dorothy Mae (Wooten) Waid
Dorothy Mae (Wooten) Waid, 96, of Homer, died Tuesday, November 7, 2006, at Tendercare in Albion.
Mrs. Waid was born March 4, 1910, in Latty, Ohio, to Calvin and Etta Mae (Cokonougher) Wooten.
She married Edwin Lyal Waid February 19, 1927, in Lansing. He preceded her in death March 24, 1964.
Mrs. Waid worked at Corning Glass in Albion. She also ran a nursing home in Tekonsha. She was a home mother most of her life and an active member of the West Eckford Church as a Sunday school teacher.
Mrs. Waid enjoyed the times she spent with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. 
After the death of her husband, she traveled north with her youngest daughter, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, which she enjoyed doing.
She is survived by a son, Edwin David Waid of Homer; three daughters, Lois. L. (Robert) Donley of Onondaga, Etta Mae Ballentine of Homer and Linda L. (Paul) Ashba of Albion; a daughter-in-law, Mary Waid; a stepbrother, Joe (Sarah) Nevean; a sister-in-law, Louise Wooten; 27 grandchildren; 87 great-grandchildren;  50 great-great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by three sons, Richard Waid, Frank Waid and Leon Wooten; a daughter, Mary Ann Truax; a brother, Guy Wooten; and two sisters, Clestas Furgala and Tressa Wilkins.
Funeral services were held Friday, November 10, at the West Eckford Church in Marshall, with the Reverends Jeff Waid and David Waid officiating.
Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery in Homer Township.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the Homer Chapel of Tidd Williams Funeral Chapels.
Memorial contributions may be made to West Eckford Church.

Mildred A. Siefert
Mildred A. Siefert, 92, of Homer, died Wednesday, November 8, 2006, at Tendercare in Albion.
Mrs. Siefert was born April 11, 1914, in Clarendon Township, to Charles and Stella (Pickett) Saunders.
She married Steven M. Moor  November 29, 1933; this marriage ended in divorce. She later married Carl F. Siefert February 26, 1953, and he preceded her in death February 19, 1997.
Mrs. Siefert was a homemaker and a lifelong resident of Homer. She was a former member of the Homer Garden Club and Eastern Star Stella Chapter.
She enjoyed gardening, especially flowers, cooking and canning, sewing, quilting and crafts.
Mrs. Siefert was also fond of crossword puzzles, playing cards, bird watching and writing poetry.
She is survived by three daughters, Sandra (Lyle) Stratton of Litchfield, Colleen (Joe) Streets of Homer and Carlene (Greg) Clock of Albion; a sister, Mary Austin of Alpena; 11 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Lloyd; her first husband, Steven Moor; and a brother, Clare Saunders.
Funeral services were held Friday, November 10, at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion, with the Reverend Michael Murray officiating.
Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Calhoun County Humane Society.

November 22, 2006

Hazel V. Rice
Hazel V. Rice, 95, longtime area resident, died Wednesday, November 15, 2006, at her home in Butler Township.
Mrs. Rice was born January 4, 1911, in Morley, to Charles Percy and Dala Angeline (Greenberg) Willmer.
She married Herbert Rice December 19, 1926, and he preceded her in death in 1993.
Mrs. Rice had been an Amway sale representative at one time and a member of the Howard City Grange.
She is survived by five daughters, Helen (Charlie) Reefman of Whitehall, Marian (Jud) Wolfe of Jerome, Rosemary (Andy) Bailey and Elaine (Henry) Rockey, both of Allen, and Kathleen (Raymond) Bender of Homer; three sons, Herbert (Clara) Rice of Lowell, Dan (Violet) Rice of Midland and John (LeMoyne) Rice, Sr. of Quincy; a brother, Robert Willmer of Grand Rapids;  33 grandchildren; 69 great-grandchildren; and 40 great-great- grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Carol Matheson; an infant son, Tommy; four grandchildren, Ronald Rice, Edward Bell, Steve Tasker and Sally Sousa; and eight siblings.
Funeral services were held Monday, November 20, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Reverend Bill Wilson officiating.
Interment followed at Mount Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
Memorial contributions may be made to CHC Home Health Care, the American Cancer Society or  the Muscular Dystrophy Association. (w/photo)

Emmett Ora Marsh
Emmett Ora Marsh, 72, of Litchfield Township, died Saturday, November 18, 2006, at his home.
Mr. Marsh was born December 9, 1933, in Algansee Township to Ora Frank and Esther B. (Buhr) Marsh.
He married Iva Thompson September 1, 1946, and she survives.
Mr. Marsh was a lifelong farmer. He enjoyed being outdoors, hunting, fishing and traveling. He especially loved spending time with his wife and grandchildren.
Mr. Marsh served in the U.S. Army for two years and continued in the Army Reserves for four years. He had belonged to the Hillsdale American Legion.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by three daughters, Elaine (Tom) Warner and Michelle (Dave) Schmittou, both of Litchfield, and Melissa (Bill) Moor of Homer; a son, Randy (Janet) Marsh of Litchfield; a brother, Gerald (Carol) Marsh of Quincy; two sisters, Gearldine (LaVern) Spieth of Litchfield and Maurine (Duane) Tesch of Jonesville; two grandchildren; and a great-grandson.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother.
Graveside funeral services will be held today (Wednesday) at 10 a.m. at the Allen Cemetery, with Pastor Robert Montgomery officiating.
Funeral arrangements were handled by George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.

Ruth Ann Elmore
Ruth Ann Elmore, 68, of Jackson, died Wednesday, November 15, 2006, with her family by her side after a short but brave battle with cancer.
Mrs. Elmore was born July 15, 1938, to James Robert and Elnona (Sanders) Cary.
She married Marion Elmore Jr. June 2, 1956, and the marriage ended in divorce in 1983. She then married Louis Palmer October 27, 1998, and he survives.
Mrs. Elmore lived in the Albion and Eckford areas for several years before moving to Jackson in 1993. 
In addition to being a homemaker, she worked for Eaton Corporation in Marshall and Tekonsha Engineering.
Mrs. Elmore had many interests that included camping, the casinos, reading and using her “green thumb” with all her beautiful plants.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by two daughters, Mary Jane Ingraham and Rebecca Lynn (Brien) Hutchins, both of Homer; six grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Mary Jane Kimball; and a son, James Robert Elmore, who died in 1960.
Funeral services were held Monday, November 20, at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion, with Pastor Mark Mitchell officiating. Interment followed at Albion Memorial Gardens.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. (w/photo)

Wendel E. Clark
Wendel E. Clark, 88, of Lakeland, Florida, formerly of Homer, died Thursday, November 16, 2006, at his home.
Mr. Clark was born March 31, 1918, in Calhoun County to Edward H. and Mabel (Pratley) Clark.
He married Marjorie B. Hayes April 16, 1939, and she preceded him in death in 1995.
Mr. Clark lived in Homer most of his life where he owned and operated Clark Grain and Clark Farm Supply.
He was an avid supporter of FFA and county fairs. Mr. Clark was a staunch supporter of the Democratic party. He spent his winters in Florida for the last several years.
He is survived by three daughters, Linda (David) Wydendorf of Lakeland, Florida, Sharon Clark of Marshall and Kathy (Don) Conley of Homer; a son, Edward (Karen) Clark of Homer; 10 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by a sister, Marie Hoffman, and a half sister, Donna Buskirk.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, November 21, at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion, with the Reverend Bob Doner officiating. Interment followed at West Eckford Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Fund. (w/photo)

Janet “Kim” Cooper
Janet “Kim” Cooper, 49, of Coldwater, formerly of Homer, died Wednesday, November 15, 2006, in Battle Creek.
Mrs. Cooper was born June 19, 1957, in Albion, to Kermit and Janet (Sprague) Linscott.
She married Richard Cooper May 22, 1982, in Coldwater, and he survives.
Mrs. Cooper enjoyed being a homemaker and mother. She was a member of the Coldwater  Eagles and enjoyed shopping and babysitting.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by a son, Gregory (Becky) Cooper of Coldwater;  a daughter, Nicole Cooper of Coldwater; father and stepmother Kermit and Doris Linscott of Coldwater; a brother, Barry Linscott, of Battle Creek; a sister, Kelly Malakoff of Coldwater; and a grandson, Kameron Cooper.
She was preceded in death by her mother and a brother.
Funeral services were held Saturday, November 18, at the Dutcher Funeral Home. Interment followed at Mason Cemetery in Coldwater Township.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family or the Southwest Michigan ALS Association.

November 29, 2006

Richard “Dick” W. Marshall
Richard “Dick” W. Marshall, 82, of Homer, died Friday, November 24, 2006, at his home.
Mr. Marshall was born February 26, 1924, in Albion Township, to George E. and Edith Pearl (Cuatt) Marshall. He graduated from Albion High School and attended Michigan State University. He married Beverly A. Elmer October 26, 1946. She survives.
Mr. Marshall was a lifelong beef cattle farmer in the area. He served in the U.S. Navy Seabees during World War II. He served many years as a board member of Farm Credit and Albion Elevator,  was a 4-H Beef Club leader, and a member of Farm Bureau, Progressive Farmers Group and Progressive Farmers Sportsmen’s Club. He also belonged to the Masonic Lodge.
In addition to his wife, survivors include three daughters, Ruth (Doug) Hunt of Albion, Barb (Joe) Poprawa of Lansing, and Pattie (Wayne) Jarvis of Concord; a son, Kent (Loretta) Marshall of Reading; four sisters, Arlene (Maurice) Hill of Virginia, Bernadine Crandall of Battle Creek, Carol Davison of Vicksburg and Phyllis Filler of Tennessee; a brother, Edward Marshall of Litchfield: and five grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by two sons, Keith and Roger, and a brother Lorriane.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, November 28, at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion, with the Rev. Mark Mitchell officiating.
Interment followed in Riverside Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the B.E. Henry Building or Homer United Methodist Church.

Willis Edward Skelly
Willis Edward Skelly, 73, of Montgomery, died Saturday, November 25, 2006, at Foote Hospital in Jackson.
Mr. Skelly was born March 18, 1933, in Pioneer, Ohio, to William and Mary (Sprang) Skelly. He graduated from Litchfield High School in 1951, and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict. He married Kathleen C. Shilling July 30, 1954. She survives.
Mr. Skelly was a retired farmer who also worked for 26 years at Jackson State Prison as farm superintendent. He worked the past 10 years as a carrier for the Hillsdale Daily News.
Mr. Skelly was a former member of the Litchfield IOOF Lodge, and served as president of the Rebeck-Pottawatomie Lake #2 Association. He supported the youth in the community, serving as a 4-H leader, gun safety instructor, and umpire for softball and baseball leagues for many years. The holiday season was very special for Mr. Skelly because he loved creating an enormous Christmas lighting display for all to see and enjoy.
In addition to his wife, survivors include four daughters, Yvonne (Gordon) Smith of Seguin, Texas, Deborah (James) Seales of Azle, Texas, Carol (William) Graham of Justin, Texas, and Kathy (Jeffery) Binkley of Pittsford; two sons, Douglas (Vickie) Skelly and James (Tina) Skelly, all of Litchfield; a sister, Phyllis (Carroll) Wells of Ft. Myers, Florida; 36 grandchildren; and 34 great-grandchildren.
Visitation was held Tuesday, November 28, from 6-8 p.m. at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.
A graveside memorial service will be held Thursday, November 30, at 1 p.m. at Mount Hope Cemetery in Litchfield, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Foote Hospital or the Leukemia Foundation.

Danny Baldridge, Sr.
Danny Baldridge, Sr., 59, of Marshall and formerly of Homer, died Wednesday, November 22, 2006, at his home.
Mr. Baldridge was born November 23, 1946, in Paintsville, Kentucky, to Glen and Annalee (Smith) Baldridge.
Mr. Baldridge worked as a security guard for Viper Security in Kalamazoo, and at Watkins Distributing in Marshall. He also worked for Walker Manufacturing and Jesco in Litchfield. 
Mr. Baldridge enjoyed games of chance, working on cars, hunting and fishing. He was a former member of the BushWhackers C.B. Club.
Survivors include three daughters, Tina Johnson of Kentucky, Melissa Walker of Marshall, and Heather Bodette of Ohio; a son, Danny (Jennifer) Baldridge, Jr. of Toledo, Ohio; a sister, Mary Whit of Homer; three brothers, Don Baldridge and Glen Baldridge, both of Homer, and Lanny James Baldridge of Parma; and 12 grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Helen Jeffrey.
Visitation will be today (Wednesday) from 3-6 p.m at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion. 
Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for funeral expenses.

Kathryn A. Mosher
Kathryn A. Mosher, 92, a longtime Litchfield resident, died Monday, November 27, 2006, at the Hillsdale Community Health Center.
Mrs. Mosher was born June 14, 1914, in West Unity, Ohio, to Jesse and Alma (Beal) Double.
Mrs. Mosher was an active partner on the family farm with her husband Raymond Mosher, who preceded her in death in 1971.
Survivors include a sister, Verta Arnold, of Pittsford; six grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by four brothers, four sisters and her son, Carl Timberman.
Visitation will be held Thursday from noon until 2 p.m. at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield. Funeral services will be Thursday at 2 p.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating.
Interment will follow in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.

December 6, 2006

Marjorie Ann Gunst
Marjorie Ann Gunst, 68, lifelong Litchfield resident, died Saturday, December 2, 2006, at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor.
Mrs. Gunst was born September 11, 1938, in Litchfield, to Edward “Bud” and Dora (Cole) Brown.
She attended Litchfield Schools. She married Donald Gunst September 11, 1965. He preceded her in death in 1986.
Mrs. Gunst enjoyed playing bingo in her leisure time.
She is survived by a daughter, Dora (Tim) Fraley of Litchfield; a son, Wesley (Bernina) Lorenz of Tennessee; a brother, Charles Brown of Carnegie, Oklahoma; a stepfather, Edward Crall of Litchfield; 11 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.
In addition to the her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; a stepdaughter, Dawn Tyszko; two brothers, Eugene Barnett and James Brown; and a sister, Molly Neil.
Funeral services were held today (Wednesday) at 11 a.m. at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield. Interment was to follow at Mount Hope Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

December 13, 2006 - No Obituaries

December 20, 2006

Lora McMaster
Lora McMaster, 46, of Litchfield, died Wednesday, December 13, 2006, at Foote Memorial Hospital in Jackson.
Ms. McMaster was born May 10, 1960, in Toledo, Ohio, to Lloyd and Iris (Willey) McMaster.
She graduated from Bedford High School in Temperance in 1978. Ms. McMaster had been employed at the Hillsdale Community Health Center in the admitting department for 20 years.
She is survived by her mother, Iris McMaster, of Litchfield, and a sister, Lynda McMaster of Ann Arbor.
She was preceded in death by her father, Lloyd McMaster, in 1994.
Funeral services were held Saturday at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield. Interment followed at the Allen Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Hillsdale County Humane Society or Trinity Lutheran Church.

Barbara Jane Ackerman
Barbara Jane Ackerman, 78, of Hanover died Tuesday, December 12, 2006, at Foote Hospital in Jackson. 
Mrs. Ackerman was born April 23, 1928, in Jackson, to Lester Sr. and Linnie (Foust) Sherer. She married Richard Ackerman 58 years ago, and he survives. 
Mrs. Ackerman worked 28 years in the Hanover-Horton School District as cafeteria manager. She was a member of the Jackson County Food Association, the Pulaski Friendship Club and the Golden Anniversary Club. She also served as treasurer, Sunday school teacher and church steward at Pulaski Free Methodist Church.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Ackerman is survived by three daughters, Connie (Doc) Howe of Homer, Colette (Butch) Lyons of Horton, and Annette (Denny) Wellman of Parma; seven grandchildren, Dawn (Rob) Green, Laurie (Randy) Nevins, Lynette (Gavin) Carr, Kerry (Jeff) Redman, Richie Betts, Aaron (Libbi) Dodd and Jeff (Lauren) Dodd; 13 great-grandchildren; seven step-grandchildren; 11 step-great-grandchildren; a brother, Lester (Carolyn) Sherer, Jr. of Ohio; four sisters-in-law and their families; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and a son-in-law, Raymond Dodd.
Funeral services were held Saturday, December 16, at Pulaski Free Methodist Church, with the Rev. Michael Ortell officiating. Burial followed in Pulaski Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements were handled by Hampton-Kurtz Funeral Home of Hanover.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Pulaski Free Methodist Church.

December 27, 2006

Shirley E. Gray
Shirley E. Gray, 75, of Homer, died Wednesday, December 20, 2006, at Hospice House of Mid-Michigan in Lansing.
Mrs. Gray was born March 6, 1931, in Orange Township to Burton and Bessie Hurdlebrink. She married Leon Gullitt in 1947, and Richard Gray in 1965. Both marriages ended in divorce.
Mrs. Gray lived most of her life in the Albion/Marshall area. She owned and operated Del Ray Clothing Store in Marshall. She also managed Grist Mill Apartments in Homer for 10 years. 
Mrs. Gray attended St. Paul Lutheran Church in Albion. She enjoyed sewing, cooking, crocheting and taking care of her house. She loved nature, especially birds and flowers. Although very independent, she loved her family deeply.
Survivors include four sons, Gary (Susan) Gullett of Sturgis, Russ (Diane) Gullett of Lansing, Mickey (Rosa) Gullett of Indiana, and Jerry Gray of Homer; a sister, Doreen Fritz of Albion; a sister-in-law, Delores Manthei of Albion; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and a brother, Bill Hurdlebrink.
Funeral services were held Saturday, December 23, at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion, with Pastor Winford Collins officiating.
Interment followed at Albion Memory Gardens.
Memorials are suggested to Hospice House of Mid-Michigan.  

Thomas F. Foltz
Thomas F. Foltz, 74, of Congress, Arizona, and formerly of Homer, died Sunday, December 17, 2006.
Mr. Foltz and his wife Mazie had been married for 47 years, spending their first 40 years in Homer. 
Mr. Foltz was a veteran of the Korean War. He held many jobs during his life, retiring from Folk Oil in 1999 after 31 years with the company. The couple retired to Congress to be closer to their children.
Mr. Foltz was known as a handyman,who enjoyed helping people in need. 
In addition to his wife, survivors include a son, Mike (Cheryl) Foltz and a daughter, Debbie (Butch) Eldred, all of Phoenix, Arizona; two sisters; and five brothers.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister and two brothers.
According to his wishes, no memorial service was held.