2014 Homer Index Obituaries
(Photos from the earlier months of 2014 are only available in the paper edition.)
January 1, 2014
Rose Rita Richardson
Rose Rita Richardson, 77, of Homer, died Monday, December 23, 2013, at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor following a stroke.
Mrs. Richardson was born March 21, 1936, in Marshall to Henry P. and Mabel L. (Bellairs) Woods. She graduated from Marshall High School in 1954 and attended Elkhart Business College for dental assisting. She married Rolin L. Richardson at Saint Mary Catholic Church in Marshall November 7, 1959.
Mrs. Richardson was a homemaker - staying home and taking care of her family. She worked for a short time at the G.C. Murphy Five and Dime, State Farm Insurance Company, Woodland Metal and S.H. Leggitt Company all, in Marshall. She was a member of the Saint John Catholic Church of Albion, 4-H Club, Marshall Women of the Moose, Homer VFW Auxiliary, Child Study Club, Monday Club and the Homer Historical Society. Mrs. Richardson enjoyed sewing, cooking, working in her flower garden and crocheting scarves. She was an avid reader and enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren. One of her treasured lifetime accomplishments was raising her six children and taking care of Rolin.
She is survived by her husband Rolin of Homer and six children, Marcie (Clyde) Glass of Queen City, Texas, Diane (Tom) Marsh of South Bend, Indiana, Paul (Carol) Richardson of Verdigris, Oklahoma, Joan (Scott) Isham of Tekonsha, Jane (Richard) Sleight of Leroy, Illinois, and Angie (Kyle) Uramkin of Otsego. She is also survived by 11 grandchildren, one great-grandchild and six siblings. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Keith Woods; sister, Marie Woods; and two grandchildren.
Visitation took place at the Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home Thursday, December 26. A funeral mass took place at 10 a.m. Friday, December 27, at Saint John Catholic Church in Albion, with the Rev. Father Joseph Gray officiating. Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery in Homer, with Deacon Ken Snyder officiating.
Family gathered with friends following the committal services at First Presbyterian Church of Homer. The family requests memorial contributions be made to the Homer Library. Assistance with memorials is available at the Kempf Funeral Home. Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guest book at www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Crash kills Homer woman
by Kelly Gampel
Karen Ward, 51, of Homer, died in a single vehicle car crash early Friday morning.
Calhoun County Sheriff deputies were dispatched to L Drive South near 22 Mile Road in Clarendon Township in reference to the single car accident at approximately 7:23 a.m. December 27.
Calhoun County Sheriff Department’s Captain Steve Eddy said it appears Ward was traveling eastbound on L Drive South, lost control of her SUV due to “slushy road” conditions and struck a tree. She died at the scene.
She was not wearing her seatbelt at the time of the crash, according to Eddy. He said it is known she left for work earlier that morning.
Deputies were assisted by the Homer Fire Department.
Ward worked at CareLinc as a respiratory therapist and was an Army veteran.
Ward was a 1980 graduate of Marshall High School and a graduate of Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, where she majored in music.
She is survived by her husband, Matthew Ward of Homer; children, Paige, Devon and Clayton Ward of Homer; father, Rolland Face of Marshall; brothers, Victor (Karen) Face of Homer and Jeffery (Darcie) Face of Fremont, Indiana; and several close aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
January 8, 2014 - No Obits
January 15, 2014
Erika A. Hergert
Erika A. Hergert, 67, of Litchfield, passed away Monday, January 6, 2014, at Carelink of Jackson.
She was born February 16, 1946, in Sulzbach-Rosenberg, Germany, and retired from Fairway Products in Hillsdale after 30 years of service. She and her husband Charles, whom she married January 5, 1978, were motorcycle enthusiasts and members of ABATE of Michigan. Erika also enjoyed gardening and flowers. She was preceded in death by her mother, Margarete Bauer.
Visitation was Thursday, January 9, from 5-8 p.m. at the Eagle Funeral Home-George White Chapel, Litchfield. Memorial services were held Friday, January 10, at the Litchfield Congregational Church, with the Rev. Michael Murray officiating.
Memorials are suggested to the Litchfield Congregational Church. To view this obituary and send condolences, visit www.eaglefuneralhomes.com.
Crystal Starr LaFountain
Crystal Starr LaFountain passed into the loving arms of our Heavenly Father Saturday, January 4, 2014.
A lifelong resident of Homer, she was born in Marshall March 23, 1977, to Lana Swan and the late Doug LaFountain. She was born with health issues no child should ever have to face.
Crystal’s courage and strength from birth were an inspiration to all who knew her. Many more medical hurdles would be placed in Crystal’s path throughout her life, but her determination and will to live carried her over them. Crystal’s happiness was music - all kinds of music. Some of her favorites were KISS, Rob Thomas, Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Jackyl. She loved to share her love of a new song or new band with whomever she could, and her enthusiasm and passion were contagious. She met many of her rock n’ roll idols, collecting autographs and pictures of the stars that brought her so much happiness. In her book of poetry that was published in 2001, many of her poems were dedicated to her favorite rock stars.
She loved to travel, to see new places and meet new people. She especially loved New York City. Crystal was a loving and compassionate friend to many, many people. She was dynamic, outgoing, and loved life with all her heart. Her personality lit up any room she was in, like a thousand brilliant stars. Her infectious laugh was much like the music she loved, it brought joy to the many people who loved her.
Above all else she cherished each and every one of her family members. They were her strength and comfort. Her faith in God, His ability to heal and the power of prayer got her through many dark days and nights. She will live forever in our hearts and to all she would say “PEACE, LOVE, MUSIC.”
Crystal is survived by her mother, Lana Swan; brothers, Douglas (Sharon) LaFountain, Cody LaFountain, Shane Leiter, Brent Tackett, Adam Tackett and Ryan Tackett; sisters, Anna (Tony) Mellow and Leanna Keller; a niece, Ashley Guerrero; a nephew, Riley LaFountain; grandmothers, Joann Swan and Ruth Peters; many aunts, uncles, cousins and special friends; and her stepmother Lori LaFountain.
She was preceded in death by her father, Douglas LaFountain; grandfathers, George I. Swan and Harold LaFountain; and nephews Kaden LaFountain and Austin LaFountain.
Visitation for family and friends was held Friday, January 10, at the First Baptist Church in Marshall. The funeral service followed the visitation, with Pastor David Good officiating.
Memorial contributions may be sent to Disabled Veterans, 477 Michigan Ave., Room 1200, Detroit, Michigan 48226 or World Wildlife Fund, 1250 24th Street NW, Washington, DC 20037.
J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion will be handling the funeral arrangements. (w/photo)
Nancy Anne Schartzer
Nancy Anne Schartzer, 91, of Bryan, Ohio, passed away Thursday, January 9, 2014, in her home in Bryan.
Nancy was born February 22, 1922, in Toledo, Ohio, to the late Paul S. and Dorothy (Diebel) Mason.
She was a 1940 graduate of Defiance High School. Nancy married John William Schartzer October 13, 1945, in Defiance and he preceded her in death February 16, 2010.
The Schartzer family lived in Homer for over ten years. Nancy was a sales clerk at the former Carroll-Ames in Bryan for 25 years. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Bryan. Nancy was a volunteer for Meals on Wheels. She also assisted with outreach and the weekly free meal prepared by the Presbyterian Church. She loved to play bridge, go to auctions and garage sales. She dearly loved her cat Rusty and her friends.
Surviving is her daughter, Sue Ann Schartzer of Muskegon; daughter-in-law, Susan Schartzer of Goshen, Indiana; and one brother, Peter Mason of Sparks, Nevada. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John; her son, Joel Schartzer; and two brothers, William and Richard Mason.
A springtime gathering will be held to celebrate Nancy’s life. Interment will be made in Brown Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Oberlin-Turnbull Funeral Home, 206 North Lynn Street, Bryan, Ohio.
In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the Williams County Humane Society “Schartzer Memorial Cat Adoption Fund,” 09464 County Road 13, Bryan, OH 43506, or to the Williams County Public Library, 107 East High Street, Bryan, OH 43506.
Condolences may be sent to the family or the online guest book may be signed at www.oberlinturnbull.com. (w/photo)
January 22, 2014
Harold “Jr.” Denbrock
Harold “Jr.” Denbrock, 64, of Homer, passed away Friday, January 17, 2014, at Bronson Battle Creek.
He was born December 3, 1949, in Albion. He was the son of Harold and Elizabeth (Bartlett) Denbrock, Sr. He graduated from Litchfield High School in 1968, and was employed as a car hauler for Leaseway Motor Freight. He had also worked as a milk hauler and enjoyed farming and hauling grain with his father-in-law.
Junior was a member of the Albion Elks Lodge, Teamsters Local 580, Michigan Milk Producers Association and the Kalamazoo Antique Tractor Club.
He married Brenda Flint April 17, 1970, and she survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Penny Denbrock of Homer and Peggy (Jeff) Middleton of Jacksonville, North Carolina; three special daughters, Wendy Nantz of Galesburg, April Peck of Homer and Susan Wenderoth of Allentown, Pennsylvania; one sister, Durene Renfro of Tekonsha; one brother, Albert Denbrock of Marshall; one brother-in-law, Roger Alison of Jackson; one son-in-law, Randy Sprague of Homer; five grandchildren, Dakota, Ashley and Dylan Sprague, and Colin and Elizabeth Middleton; three special grandchildren, Jacob, Sierra and Zachary Nantz; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Karen Denbrock, Clytie Denbrock and Sharon Alison; and a son, Scott.
Memorial services were scheduled for Tuesday at 11 a.m. at the Eagle Funeral Home-George White Chapel, Litchfield, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating. Memorial visitation was Monday. Memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or University of Michigan Pediatric Oncology.
To view this obituary and send condolences, visit georgewhitefuneralhome.com.
January 29, 2014
Patricia S. Tackett
Patricia S. Tackett, 54, of Homer, passed away Sunday, January 19, 2014, at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami, Florida. She was born September 8, 1959, to Robert H. and Myrna J. (Beck) Semon in Jackson. She married Kent D. Tackett, who survives.
Patricia was a loving woman who was always smiling and enjoyed helping and talking to everyone. She enjoyed shopping, bird watching and traveling with Kent. Most of all, Patricia loved her family, especially spending time and spoiling her grandchildren. In addition, Patricia will be dearly missed by her faithful furry friend “Sadie.”
Patricia is survived by husband, Kent Tackett; sons, Kirk (Tammy) Tackett and Michael (Ashley) Tackett; daughter, Trisha (Kyle) Meeks; grandchildren, Landon Winder, Hayden Meeks, Charlie and Frankie Tackett; sister, Deedee Judy; mother-in-law, Texann Tackett; and several aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Myrna Semon; brother, Mike Semon; and father-in-law, Russell Tackett.
Visitation for family and friends was held Sunday, January 26, at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, and Monday, January 27, at noon until the time of service at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery, Homer Township. (w/photo)
February 5, 2014
Joyce Marie Cooper
Joyce Marie (Craven) Cooper, age 67, of Linn Creek, Missouri, and formerly of Homer, died Monday, January 20, 2014.
Mrs. Cooper was born August 21, 1946, in Detroit to Claude R. and Sophie (Kovacs) Craven. Joyce grew up in the Homer area, attending Homer Community Schools, and was a graduate of Homer High School, class of 1964.
In 1966, she married Darrel Cooper at the Homer United Methodist Church. The couple relocated to Chicago in 1972, where she went to work for the Crawford Department Store. During her employment there, she continued to advance her position in the company, reaching the positions of supervisor and then as corporate buyer for all Crawford stores. Her position took her to New York several times a year to meet with clothing wholesalers.
Joyce left the employment of Crawford in 1986. She soon opened her own business, Advertising Impression. Her company sold marketing and advertising materials and services to many Chicago companies. In 1999, she moved her business to the Lake of the Ozarks area in Missouri. Her company continued to grow, servicing her customers in the Chicago area as well as many new clients in Missouri. Over the last several years, Joyce slowed down her business operations.
While living in Camdenton, Missouri, she was as active member of the Chamber of Commerce, as well as other civic organizations. Joyce was an avid reader, and she loved bird watching. She had numerous bird feeders all around her home. She was well educated as to the many species of birds and enjoyed identifying the many different birds that visited her feeders.
She is survived by her two sons, Dennis (Dawn) Cooper of Crystal Lake, Florida, and David (Amy) Cooper of Nashville, Tennessee; four grandchildren, Lawrence, Rebecca, Kathleen and Jacob; brothers, Robert Craven of Homer and Charles Craven of Homer; numerous nieces and nephews; a very dear friend, Shirley Childers of the Lake of Ozarks area; and a special caregiver, Lora Morrow. Her parents; a grandson, Steven Cooper; and her sister, Shirley J. (Craven) Mees, preceded her in death.
The family received friends at the Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home January 31 from 4-8 p.m. A funeral service was held to celebrate the gift of her life the morning of Saturday, February 1, at the funeral home. Interment followed at the Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens in Battle Creek.
Friends who wish to make memorial contributions may do so to the American Lung Association. Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral home.
To leave a personal message and sign the online guest book, please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Kennith G. Walter
Kennith G. Walter, age 47 of Homer, passed away Wednesday, January 29, 2014, at his residence.
He was born August 9, 1966, to Donald and Carol (Prior) Walter in Marshall.
He married Tina Coburn August 8, 1992, who survives.
Kennith lived his entire life in Homer and Marshall. He was a 1985 Homer High School graduate. He was the owner and operator of Ken’s Carpet Installation for 30 years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing and, most of all, spending time with his family and friends.
Kennith is survived by his wife, Tina Coburn-Walter; daughter, Kaytlin; parents, Don and Carol Walter of Lewiston; a brother, Don Walter Jr. of Alabama; sisters, Nancy (Corby) Howk of Rice Creek and Amy Laupp of Marshall; and his dog, Jackie. He was preceded in death by his in-laws, Merlin and Florine Coburn.
Visitation for family and friends is scheduled for today (Wednesday) from noon until 2 p.m. at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion.
A memorial service will follow the visitation.
According to his wishes, cremation has taken place.
Memorial contributions may be made to Tina Walter in honor of Kaytlin Walter c/o J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home. (w/photo)
Mary C. Lewis
Mary C. Lewis of Homer died at Marshall Nursing and Rehab in Marshall where she has lived the last 4 years. She was surrounded by her loving family.
Mary was born July 5, 1925, to Myrtle (Foster) and William V. Schroll. She married Burdette G. Lewis November 9, 1946.
She treasured her family and grandchildren. Mary was a long time member of St. Joe Baptist Church in Homer where she often taught Sunday school.
Mrs. Lewis is survived by two sons, Terry (Carol) Lewis and Charles Lewis; and five daughters, Sandy (Troy Poe) Gillett, Sue (Bob) Sikora, Shirley (Mark) Rowbotham, Nancy (Craig) Waid and Melissa (Bob) Owens; 29 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; two sisters, Phyllis Jenkins and Wanda Lininger.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Burdette G. Lewis; three brothers, Gordon, William and Gerry; and a sister Joyce Nichols.
Visitation for family and friends will be Thursday, February 6, from 10 a.m. to noon at the First Baptist Church, 914 N. Main Street, Tekonsha.
A funeral will follow the visitation with Pastor Brian Perry officiating. Interment will be at West Eckford Cemetery, Eckford Township.
Assistance with memorial contributions may be made to Make A Wish Foundation, 2300 Genoa Business Park Drive, Brighton, MI 48114.
Arrangements entrusted to the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finely Drive, Albion.
Delores Bonogofsky
Delores Katherine Bonogofsky, 75, died Friday, January 31, 2014, in Pampa, Texas.
Liturgy of the Word will be celebrated at 2 p.m. Thursday, February 6, 2014, at Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors, with Rev. Francisco Perez, pastor of St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church, officiating. Cremation and arrangements are under the direction of Car-michael-Whatley Funeral Directors.
Mrs. Bonogofsky was born October 13, 1938, in Solen, North Dakota. Delores had been a resident of Pampa since 2004, moving from Homer.
She married Tony Bonogofsky July 21, 1955, in Mandan, North Dakota. Delores was a Catholic and a homemaker. She loved and took pride in her children and grandchildren.
Delores was preceded in death by a daughter, Laura Bonogofsky, and one sister, Eleanor Kurtz.
Survivors include her husband, Tony; a daughter, Pam Reed and husband Roger of Pampa, Texas; three sons, Tyrone Bonogofsky and Linda Gallop of Ferndale, Florida, Mark Bonogofsky and wife Traci of Homer and Brian Bonogofsky and wife Annette of Martin; a sister, Leona MacDonald and husband John of Niagara, Wisconsin; two half-sisters, Vivian Holzer of North Dakota and Laura Markel of Texas; three half-brothers, Jr. Schantz, Irvin Schantz and Randy Schantz all of North Dakota; five grandchildren, Jaimie Peach and husband Te of Chester, Oklahoma, Travis Reed and wife Kristin of Odessa, Texas, Breanne Bonogofsky of Martin, Chad Bonogofsky of Homer and Eric Hackworth of Traverse City; three great-grandchildren, Maudie Peach and Quinn Peach both of Chester, Oklahoma, and Kingsley Reed of Odessa; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be made to the March of Dimes Foundation, Amarillo Chapter, 104 W. 6th Ave., Suite 301, Amarillo, TX 79101.
Sign the on-line guest register at www.carmichaelwhatley.com.
February 26, 2014
Jason Lee Lathrop
Jason Lee Lathrop, 40, of Homer, died Friday, February 14, 2014, at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor.
Jason was born October 11, 1973, in Albion, to John and Chris (Weiss) Lathrop. He graduated from Homer High School in 1992, and earned his associates degree from Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida.
Jason was a caregiver for his family, staying home and taking care of his grandmother. He also worked as a bartender in the area for several years. He enjoyed golf, baseball and music. He also enjoyed spending time with his family and many friends.
He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Chris and Phil Beal of Homer; father and stepmother, John and Barb Lathrop of Battle Creek; sister, Chelsea Lathrop of Battle Creek; brother and sister-in-law, Philip and Christina Beal of Napoleon; niece, Madalyn Beal; maternal grandmother, Peggy Weiss of Homer; aunts and uncles, Jerry Lathrop of Battle Creek, Paula and Donny Pittelkow of Homer, Sally Weiss of Kalamazoo, Helene and Bill Korinko of Waukesha, Wisconsin, and Barb Beal of Kalamazoo; several cousins; and his four-legged friend Bam Bam. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, John Lathrop; and maternal grandfather, Don Weiss.
A memorial service will take place Sunday from 1-4 p.m. at Cascarelli’s, 103 East Main Street in Homer. The family requests memorial contributions to be made to the Humane Society of South Central Michigan.
Assistance with memorials is available at the Kempf Funeral Home. Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guest book at www.kempffuneralhome.com.
March 5, 2014 - No obits
March 12, 2014 - No obits
March 19, 2014 - No obits
March 26, 2014
Nancy Finley Bigelow
Nancy Finley Bigelow, 81, of Valdosta, Georgia, died Monday, March 17, 2014, at South Georgia Medical Center.
She was born in Albion June 1, 1932, to the late Clarence and Alta Dailey Finley, and had lived in Valdosta since 1969. Mrs. Bigelow was a Presbyterian and a veteran of the United States Air Force (WAC), serving during the Korean Conflict. She enjoyed music, arts and crafts, baking and decorating cakes for family and friends, and participating in her children’s school activities. Mrs. Bigelow enjoyed attending her grandson’s sporting activities and accompanying her husband on his golfing activities.
Survivors include her husband, John A. Bigelow of Valdosta; her son and daughter-in-law, Paul A. and Kimberly Bigelow of Austin, Texas; her daughter, Denise Bigelow Girdler of Valdosta; her grandson, Aaron P. Girdler of Valdosta; her sister, Peggy Trall of California; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by three sisters, Hope Hepler, Phyllis Daniels and Arva Wallace, all of Michigan.
Funeral services were held Saturday, March 22, in the chapel of Carson McLane Funeral Home with the Rev. Bob Willis officiating. The family received friends following the service.
Burial with military honors will be held Thursday, March 27, at Quantico National Cemetery in Triangle, Virginia. Condolences to the family may be conveyed online at www.mclanecares.com. (w/photo)
Beverly Chamberlain Ekstrom
Beverly Chamberlain Ekstrom, 93, of Holmes Beach, Florida, passed away March 1, 2014.
She was a 30-resident of the Homer area, and taught in the local elementary school for many years.
She is survived by her daughter, Vera Morgan of Fayetteville, North Carolina; and sons, Peter Chamberlain of Watersplash, Nevada, and Dr. John Chamberlain of Gainesville, Florida. Mrs. Ekstrom is also survived by eight grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held in Florida, and her ashes will be scattered at sea, per her request.
April 2, 2014 - No Obits
April 9, 2014 - No Obits
April 16, 2014
Samuel J. Lopez
Samuel J. Lopez, 61, of Homer, passed away Friday, April 11, 2014, at Spectrum Butterworth Hospital with loved ones by his side.
Sam was born June 1, 1952, to Juan and Loretta (Lerma) Lopez in Harlingen, Texas. He attended school in Homer and graduated with the Class of 1970. Sam married the love of his life, Wanda Marie Murphy, June 8, 1979. Sam felt that the sun rose and set for Wanda, and he doted on her.
Sam was a maintenance mechanic by trade. He reluctantly retired from Metaldyne in Litchfield in 2012 as a result of his illnesses. Previous to working at Metaldyne, he worked for Hillsdale Tool for more than 20 years.
When Sam became ill two years ago, he was able to focus on his family, especially his grandchildren, who were very dear to his heart. Sam enjoyed close, special relationships with his children and grandchildren during this time, after moving in together under one roof, where he often cooked for the family. Chocolate chip cookies and homemade tortillas were his specialties.
Sam had many hobbies. He enjoyed golfing, working on cars, watching television (especially Chuck Norris and Star Trek!) and attending church at Maple Grove Bible Church of Marshall. One of the many characteristics about Sam that he is remembered for was his love for babies. Any baby and every baby! He was very playful with children and “Papi” loved to pick on and instigate his grandchildren. Sam is most remembered for being a quiet and gentle man. He was loyal and dedicated to his wife, children, grandchildren, family, friends and work.
He is survived by his wife, Wanda; children, Anne (Adam) Porter and Daniel Lopez of Homer; grandchildren, Dimitri Vargas, and Lucas and Eliana Porter; sisters, Aurora (Garland) Chapman of Litchfield, Dora (Valente) Villarreal of Lansing, Norma Wharff of Lansing, Bertha (Terry) Callaghan of Sun City Center, Florida; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Sam was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Sammy Lopez, whom he was named after.
A memorial service to celebrate Sam’s life will be held today (Wednesday) at noon at Maple Grove Bible Church, 18511 L Drive South, Marshall, with Pastor Bill Cole officiating. A luncheon for family and friends will follow at the church. The family requests for memorials in memory of Sam to be made out to his family to aid with expenses. Assistance with memorials is available at the Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home, 723 US 27 North, Marshall. To leave the family a personal message and sign the online guestbook, please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Cecil B. Hayes
Cecil B. Hayes, 78, of Homer, died Wednesday, April 9, 2014, at Select Specialty Hospital in Battle Creek.
Mr. Hayes was born August 22, 1935, in Eckford Township to Ira and Marie (Shaw) Hayes. He graduated from Marshall High School in 1953. He married Gladys Ann McKiver in 1953.
Mr. Hayes farmed in the Eckford area his whole life. He also worked as a machinist for the Eaton Company in Marshall for 39 years. Mr. Hayes enjoyed the outdoors, riding in his gator and working in his yard. He also enjoyed watching RFDTV, spending time with family and especially watching his grandchildren at their sporting events.
He is survived by his wife, Gladys of Homer; children, William B. (Teresa) Hayes of Homer and Susan A. (Bruce) Dolph of Marshall; grandchildren, Jennifer (Nate) Huff of Homer, Timothy Hayes of Bronson, Chelsea Hayes of Olivet and Samantha Dolph of Marshall; great-grandchildren, Ethan and Elijah Huff and Ella Wesner; a brother, Philip Hayes, of Marshall; sisters, Della Kane of Indiana and Shirley Schmitt of Manchester.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Fred Hayes.
A memorial gathering took place at the Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home Reception Hall, 723 US 27 North, Marshall, Saturday, April 12, 2014.
Memorial contributions in Cecil’s memory are requested to the Humane Society of South Central Michigan. Assistance with memorials is available at the Kempf Funeral Home.
Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guest book at www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
April 23, 2014
Susan Campbell
Susan (Blonde) Campbell, 65, of Litchfield, passed away Tuesday, April 15, 2014, at home.
She was born January 28, 1949, in Albion, to Charles and Doris (Pratt) Blonde and she survives in Litchfield. A 1967 graduate of Litchfield High School, Susan worked as a postal clerk at the Litchfield Post Office for many years, a waitress at Kasy’s in Litchfield and clerk at the Litchfield Shell Station. She enjoyed painting and loved flowers and gardening.
She married Jamie Campbell February 22, 1996, and he survives. In addition to her husband and mother, she is also survived by a daughter, Jackie (Roger) Spieth of Litchfield; a son, Steven (Lori) Denbrock of Litchfield; a stepdaughter, Dana Campbell of Jackson; a stepson, Damien Campbell of Grand Rapids; four brothers, Kenneth (Iris) Blonde of Jonesville, and Keith (Linda) Blonde, Karl Blonde and Bruce (Sandy) Blonde, all of Litchfield; six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her father.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 19, at the Litchfield United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Julie Yoder Elmore officiating. Interment followed in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Litchfield.
Visitation was Friday, April 18, at the Eagle Funeral Home-George White Chapel in Litchfield. Memorials are suggested to CHC Hospice.
To view this obituary and send condolences, visit www.eaglefuneralhomes.com.
Frances B. Costianes
Frances B. Costianes, 85, of Albion, died Saturday, April 5, 2014, at her home surrounded by her loving family.
She was born August 19, 1928, in Eckford Township, and was the daughter of Ivo E. Face and Marjorie Bentley Face. She married Nicholas P. Costianes, August 26, 1951.
Frances served 12 years as Albion’s 4th precinct city council member, eight of her 12 years as mayor pro-tem. In addition to being a full-time homemaker, she spent many years volunteering with the Camp Fire Girls and Boys organization; the Festival of the Forks, including the Greek food booth for 27 years; United Way; Albion Downtown, Inc.; Chamber of Commerce; Albion Civic Foundation Ball; North (Caldwell) Elementary School P.T.A.; South Albion 4-H Club; Albion High School band boosters; 13 years as Presbyterian church Sunday school teacher; a Red Cross four gallon blood drive donor; Calhoun County Alternatives Program; Albion Ambulance Sponsor-Member Committee; Albion Health Care Alliance Benefit Ball Committee; and served six times on jury duty.
She enjoyed cooking, golfing, dancing, playing cards and watching TV.
She is survived by her husband, Nicholas; daughters, Pauline (Lou) Aronica of Canton, Christine Costianes of Fishers, Indiana, and Kathleen Costianes of Seminole, Florida; sisters, Doris Bramble of Albion, Helen Banfield of Marshall; and brother, Russell Face of Marshall. She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers Donald and Neil Face.
A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, May 3, at 11 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 305 E. Porter Street, Albion. Cremation has taken place and interment will be in Fort Custer National Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Albion or Albion Elk’s Lodge #1798 or Marshall Oaklawn Hospice.
www.jktiddfuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
April 30, 2014 - No obits
May 7, 2014
Dennis “Eddie” Wolfe
Dennis Edward “Eddie” Wolfe, age 55, of Sterling Heights, passed away April 28.
Loving husband of Jill. Dear father of Ashley (Chris) Jasper, Danielle (Cord) Buoy, Daniel Davis, Kaelyn Davis, Danica Wolfe and Zoe Wolfe. Beloved grandfather of Christopher, Cheyenne, Conner and Charleigh Jasper and also of Wave and Odin Buoy.
He is survived by his parents, Edward and Bonnie Wolfe; and siblings, Stephen (Janice) Wolfe, Kenneth Wolfe and Teresa (Jim) Schell. He was predeceased by his sisters, Karen Wolfe and Gail Boehmer. He leaves many loving nieces and nephews.
Eddie attended high school at Homer H.S., and participated in team sports, including being part of a long-lasting record in the 880 yard relay. He received his bachelor’s degree from Oakland University and further pursued his masters at Wayne State University. Eddie taught chemistry, biology and physics at East Detroit High School, and also coached track.
Eddie enjoyed music, much more than a hobby. He was a successful musician and recording engineer in the greater Detroit area, and owned and operated Black Wolfe Records and Nectarine Studio.
Visitation was Wednesday, April 30, at S. K. Schultz Funeral Home in Eastpointe, with a funeral service that immediately followed.
A local graveside service for family and friends will be announced later this summer to take place at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
May 14, 2014 - No Obits
May 21, 2014
Alan W. Brockway
Alan W. Brockway, 77, of Homer passed away Saturday, May 17, 2014, with his family by his side.
Alan was born September 23, 1936, the son of Colon and Vera (Kelley) Brockway. He was a resident of Homer his entire life. He served in the United States Army between the years of 1959-1962, while being stationed in France. After marrying Mary Ray of Litchfield, they had a son, Wayne, along with a daughter Heather. They shared 51 wonderful years of marriage. Alan was a 42-year member of the local 333 Plumbers and Pipefitters Union, retiring in 1999. After retirement, Alan enjoyed steam engine shows, woodworking and metal working along with spending time with his family and traveling in his motor home.
Alan is survived by his wife, Mary; son, Wayne of Kalamazoo; and daughter, Heather of Burlington. Alan also leaves his grandchildren, Kyle Brockway of Tennessee, Amanda and Anthony Layne of Burlington; and his brother, Michael of Homer.
Alan was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Lynn; and sister, Suzanne.
Services were held Tuesday, May 20, at 1 p.m. at the J Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, with the Pastor Jerry Noseworthy officiating. Visitation was scheduled for one hour prior to the service from noon to 1 p.m. Interment was at the Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1400 West Milham Avenue, Portage, MI 49024.
www.jktiddfuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Peggy J. Drumm
Peggy J. Drumm, age 80, of rural Marshall, passed away and joined her beloved husband, Richard O. “Junior” Drumm, Saturday, May 17, 2014, at the home of her daughter Sandra K. Drumm in Marshall where she was being cared for by her loving family.
Peggy was born September 30, 1933, in Albion to Donald F. and Agnes (Creps) Heath. When Peggy was 6 years old, her family moved to their farm on H Drive South in Eckford Township. It was then Peggy first took her place in a pew at the United Methodist Church, now being the member with the most years attending there. The church was an important part of Peggy’s life. She played the organ for church service, taught Sunday School and was a member of the choir and church board for many years.
Peggy attended Bush School in Eckford Township until entering Marshall High School to complete her education. She was a member of the 1950 graduating class. While in high school, she met Richard O. “Junior” Drumm and they became sweethearts. They both were blessed to get to marry their high school sweetheart April 14, 1951. The couple enjoyed a loving, fruitful marriage of 53 years until Junior passed away May 4, 2004, at their home where Peggy cared faithfully for him during his final illness.
Peggy and Junior created a large and loving family. Their love and consideration for each other still shows in that family legacy. Peggy and Junior always kept their marriage alive and interesting with things like Peggy’s special goodbye to Junior when he’d join his friends at the Schaffer farm for morning coffee! They vacationed with their family at Mullett Lake through their lifetime together, creating great family memories of fishing, reading and relaxing. (Junior handled the fishing part!)
She took a job at the new State Farm Regional Office in Marshall after high school graduation. When Junior left to serve in the Korean War, she was pregnant with their first child. She left State Farm to concentrate on her family.
Later in life when the children were in school, she took a job in the office of A & C Carrier in Marshall. She then clerked for the Belcher’s at their auctions for 12 years.
Peggy is well-known for her love of antiques and her store in downtown Marshall that was a dream fulfilled for her. She named it “The Little Toy Drumm Antiques And Gifts” and it was next door to Herman’s Marshall Hardware. She opened it in 1985 and ran it until 2003. She still has a presence at the Town and Country Antique Mall in downtown Marshall with her collection of antiques and collectibles, where, until her illness, she enjoyed selling antiques and chatting with friends. She was a member of Marshall’s Antique Club.
She was the speaker at several teas at the National House Inn where she enjoyed speaking about and showing examples of her collections. Peggy was known as “The Turkey Lady” because of her vast collection of turkey post cards, plates and platters! Peggy loved going to auctions and estate sales where she found many of these treasures.
She was a supporter of the Calhoun County Fair, where she judged 4-H antique and art projects. Peggy served as treasurer of the committee that successfully relocated the Maple Grove Church to the fairgrounds.
Peggy loved music and taught it in country schools. She put on nice programs at the school for special occasions with the children as her performers. Her children particularly have fond memories of the different “assignments” they were given for the programs by their mother!
Peggy bowled in leagues at Marshall Lanes, where she was a member of the Marshall Women’s Bowling Association. She served as their secretary for many years.
Peggy leaves us her legacy, her loving and beloved family - daughter, Sandra K. Drumm of Marshall; sons, Donald R. (Robin) Drumm and Daniel P. (Lori) Drumm all of Homer; grandchildren, Nicole K. (Gil Talamantez Jr.) Wright, Robert D. (Kim Gordon) Brodock, Michael R. (Heather) Drumm, Amy J. (Dino) Pelham, Staci (Travis) Tackett, Justin D. (Sara) Drumm and Jordan D. (Stacey Sager) Drumm; 12 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; sister, Mary Standley of Brighton; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Friends may call at Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home, 723 US 27 N., Marshall, Tuesday where the family will be present from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. to greet friends and share memories.
Funeral services celebrating Peggy’s life and her Lord will be held today (Wednesday) at 11 a.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. David Boedecker officiating. Interment will follow at Lyon Lake Cemetery.
The family suggests that friends who wish should make memorials to the Fountain Clinic or Oaklawn Hospice. Assistance is available at Kempf Funeral Home. To sign the online register book and leave a message for the family, visit www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
June 4, 2014
Gladys Mae Michael
Gladys Mae Michael, 100, of Hillsdale, passed away at her home Friday, May 30, 2014.
She was born in 1913 to George and Teena McAdam. She was married to Forrest Michael and Ulyss “Duly” McDowell, both of whom preceded her in death.
She resided in Homer most of her life, and she enjoyed her family, gardening and traveling.
Gladys is survived by one son, Dennis (Connie) McDowell; one daughter, Lorene Siegrist; two stepdaughters, Joyce (Donald) Frarey and Maudie (Tom) Evans; 11 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; and nine great-great-grandchildren.
Gladys was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Duly and Forrest; one son, Richard McDowell; two sisters, Wave Rice and Donna Chamberlain; three brothers, James, Robert and Arthur McAdam; one great-great-granddaughter, Angel Nichole Sparks; one son-in-law, Robert Siegrist; and one stepson, John Michael.
At her request, cremation has taken place and a private interment will take place in the Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
A memorial luncheon for family and friends will be held at the American Legion Post in Hillsdale Sunday from 1-4 p.m. Friends who wish may make memorial contributions to Great Lakes Hospice. Arrangements are entrusted to the Hampton-Kurtz Funeral Home in Hillsdale, 517-437-0605.
June 11, 2014
Kenneth Edward Cox
Kenneth Edward Cox, age 75, of Lake Alfred, Florida, passed away suddenly May 13, 2014.
Ken, Butch or Wally (as he was known to many) was born October 31, 1938, in Saginaw to Donald and Florence “Winnie” Cox.
Ken was raised in Marshall where he graduated from Marshall High School and enlisted in the United States Navy in 1956. Ken served in the Navy for 20 years before retiring and embarking on his second career with the State of Michigan Department of Corrections. While working for the state, Ken attended Jackson Community College, earning two associate degrees related to his work with the DOC. Ken’s last DOC placement was at the Florence Crane Correctional Facility in Coldwater where Ken retired in 1997.
Ken married Shirley (Watkins, Cox) Hendrick in 1958, and together they had five children, raising them in Homer. In 2000, Ken married Marjorie (Coleman, Stapley) Cox and Ken’s family grew larger to include five stepchildren. In 2004, Ken and Marge moved to Florida to live out their retirement years.
During this time, Ken served as president of the USS Arlington AGMR2 crew association and devoted much of his free time to organizing naval ship reunions, including the USS Coney and USS Arlington. In April of 2013, Ken was honored to be a part of the commissioning of the new USS Arlington where he was a platform guest and assisted in setting the first watch.
In addition to his devotion to the Navy, Ken was an avid Detroit Tiger’s baseball fan; he followed every season either watching games on TV or listening to them on the radio, and attended many games in person when possible. His love of baseball accompanied his lifelong hobby of collecting and trading baseball cards.
Ken was preceded in death by both his parents; infant daughter, Chryl; and several nieces and nephews. Ken is survived by his sister, Nancy (Bob) Ackerly of Winterville, Georgia; his brother, Donald (Rachel) Cox of Wingo, Kentucky; his sister, Pat (Bob) Bischoff of Marshall; and his sister Ruther Peters of Albion. Ken is survived by his children, Mike (Venisa) Cox of Winter Haven, Florida; Pam (Terry) Williams of Quincy; Sandy (Dan) Hammond of Battle Creek; and Michelle (Ken) Poe of Homer. Ken is survived by stepchildren Venisa (Stapley) Cox, Duane (Colleen) Stapley of Horton; Melissa Stapley of Coldwater; Dan (Amber) Stapley of Jackson; and Cecil (Christine) Stapley of Jackson. In addition, Ken is survived by his 20 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Per Ken’s wishes, a ceremony on the USS Arlington is being planned for later this summer off the coast of Virginia whereby Ken will be honored with a burial at sea. (w/photo)
June 18, 2014
Vera M. Davie
Vera M. Davie, 90, of Homer, died Wednesday, June 11, 2014, at Vista Grande Ville in Jackson after a short illness.
Vera was born May 18, 1924, in Homer, to Lawrence and Anna (Slechta) Mann. She attended Cook’s Prairie School through the 8th grade, then attended Homer High School, where she graduated from in 1942. She often recounted that she was a member of the last class to graduate from the old high school before it was destroyed by fire in 1943.
After high school, she entered the workforce. She worked in the offices at Randall’s Beans in Tekonsha, the Malleable in Albion, Pet Milk in Homer and the Homer Foundry. Her favorite job was her last, at the City Bank in Homer.
Vera was married to Robert N. Davie January 7, 1946, in Marengo. The couple farmed together on M-60 west of the village until he preceded her in death on November 16, 1994. The couple donated land from their farm to Homer VFW Post 9411 to build their building on, which has well served the community.
In 1995, Vera sold the farm and moved into Homer, where she lived until 2006. That year she moved to Leslie to be closer to her family. There she continued to enjoy the reading that had been such an enjoyable part of her life. She was joined by a stray cat that appeared at her door one day, and “Bobby” has been part of the family ever since!
Vera is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Janet and Don Vroman of Leslie; and her granddaughter Lisa Vroman. She was also preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Lawrence Keith Mann, who passed in 1987.
A graveside service at Fairview Cemetery will be announced in July. Arrangements are by Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel. A reception will follow the graveside at the Kempf Family Reception Hall at the funeral home at 303 South Hillsdale Street, Homer.
Friends who wish to remember Vera with a memorial may do so with a contribution to the Homer Area Community Foundation (to benefit Homer Community Schools). Assistance with memorials is available at Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel.
To leave a message for the family and sign the online guest register, please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com.
Betty Lou Sparks
Betty Lou Sparks, 73, of Homer, passed away Thursday, June 12, 2014, in the evening, at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo.
Betty was born April 21, 1941, in Allen, Kentucky, to Elzie and Trennie (Hall) Shepherd. She lived most of her life in Marshall and attended school there. On November 26, 1960, she married Albert Sparks in Marshall. He preceded her in death.
Betty was a homemaker and loved to take care of all of her family, especially her grandbabies! She enjoyed the family reunions, cooking for them and having impromptu cookouts and taco nights just to name a few! Betty liked to can and freeze food too. She also enjoyed cross stitching, being a part of Marshall TOPS (take off pounds sensibly) and bowling on a league at Marshall Lanes with several of her family members.
She is survived by her daughters, Dawn Sparks and Beth Gilbert of Homer; a son, Timothy (Lauren) Sparks of Connecticut; seven grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; sisters, Brenda (Dale) Schiesser of Marshall and Kathy Holtz of Indiana; a brother, James (Christine) Shepherd of Marshall; a brother-in-law, Alan Vandenburg; a sister-in-law, Margie Shepherd of Marshall; and best friends, Ruthie and Bob Mestdagh.
Betty was preceded in death by her husband; parents; brothers, Elzie Jr. and Johnnie; a sister, Carol Vandenburg; and mother-in-law, Jane Prater.
A visitation was held Monday, June 16, at the Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Home, Marshall Chapel, 723 US 27 North, Marshall. A funeral service was held Tuesday, June 17, at the Marshall Chapel with Chester “Chet” Prater officiating. Interment was held immediately following the service at Bentleys Corner Cemetery in Clarendon Township. A luncheon was held following the interment at the Presbyterian Church of Homer, 309 South Sophia, Homer.
Memorials in memory of Betty can be made out to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral home. To leave the family a personal message and sign the online guest book please visit kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
June 25, 2014 - No obits
July 2, 2014
Richard F. ‘Rick’ Van Eck
Richard F. “Rick” Van Eck, 60, of Albion passed away Sunday, June 29, 2014, at his residence.
According to his wishes, cremation has taken place and complete service arrangements will be announced later.
The family is being assisted with arrangements by Peaceful Journey Memorials, 412 South Superior Street, Albion.
Vera Davie
Vera Davie, 90, of Homer, died Wednesday, June 11, 2014, in Jackson.
A graveside service will be held Saturday, July 12, at 10 a.m. at Fairview Cemetery in Homer Township.
The funeral is being handled by Kempf Funeral Home, www.kempffuneralhome.com.
July 9, 2014
Carlen Sue Fincham
Carlen Sue Fincham, 57, of Homer, passed away Friday, July 4, 2014, at Eaton Palliative Community Care.
Carlen was born February 17, 1957, to Franklin and Josephine (Miller) Hoyt in Albion. She attended Homer schools and graduated with the Class of 1975. Carlen married Robert “Bob” Fincham at the Girard Church May 29, 1982.
Carlen worked at Hi-Lex in Litchfield for 12 years until an injury caused her to stop working. Previously, she worked on the family farm as well as at the Midwest Foundry in Coldwater.
She enjoyed the outdoors and being in the sunshine. Carlen liked to go camping, kayaking and fishing. She loved catching walleye and was known as the “Walleye Queen!” She also liked to visit lighthouses during her travels on Lake Michigan. Most of all, Carlen loved to be with her family and friends!
She is survived by her husband, Bob Fincham of Homer; mother, Josephine Hoyt of Homer; brother, Ben (Carol) Hoyt of Homer; sister, Debbie Betz of Homer; stepchildren, Wayne, Jody and Roxanne Fincham, all of Homer; nephew, Max Caldwell; nieces, Meagan Caldwell, Jacalyn and Logan Hoyt; and several aunts and uncles.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents; father, Franklin Hoyt; uncle, Charles Ray Miller; and her aunt, Kathleen Linton.
Visitation was scheduled for Tuesday, July 8, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, 303 South Hillsdale Street, Homer. The funeral service was to follow visitation, with The Rev. Earl Gear officiating. Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery.
Memorials in memory of Carlen can be made out to the Eaton Community Palliative Care. Assistance is available at the funeral home. To leave the family a personal message and sign the online guest book, please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com.
Doris Guenther
Doris Guenther, 95, died Sunday, June 29, 2014.
Doris was born October 5, 1919, and was preceded by her husband Frank Sr.
She is survived by a daughter, Janet Gallagher of Homer, and a son Frank (Linda) Guenther Jr. of Williamstown, New Jersey; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
Cremation has taken place just as she had wanted, with “no fuss or bother.” Doris lived a simple and very happy life.
Funeral arrangements were entrusted to J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion.
Dennis Edward “Eddie” Wolfe
Family and friends are invited to remember the life of Dennis Edward “Eddie” Wolfe at a graveside gathering at 6 p.m., Friday, July 11, 2014, at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
July 16, 2014
Richard “Rick” F. Van Eck
Richard F. “Rick” Van Eck, 60, of Albion, passed away in his home Sunday, June 29, 2014.
Rick was born October 19, 1953, in Albion, to Robert Eugene and DeLouise (Finnegan) Van Eck. He married Bobbie Jane Houghton June 30, 1984, in Chagrin Falls, Ohio. Together, they had two children, Eve and Michael, both of Albion.
Besides his wife Bobbie of Albion, he is survived by a daughter, Eve Van Eck of Albion; a son, Richard “Michael” Van Eck, living at home; his mother, DeLouise Van Eck of Portage; a sister, Carol (Jim) Ann Halfmann of St. Johns; and numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved very much. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert E. Van Eck; a brother, John Van Eck; and a sister, Teresa Bennett.
“Kids don’t remember what you try to teach them. They remember who you are.”- Jim Henson.
Second to the family he loved was Rick’s love of teaching and his commitment to his students. He taught for 31 years at Homer Community Schools, leaving a legacy through the students whose lives he touched, and the colleagues and friends who knew him. Rick loved the outdoors, and was an avid gardener, bird hunter and fisherman. He was also known for his baked goods, often surprising friends with his infamous tea rings and kringles.
According to Rick’s wishes, cremation has taken place and services are planned for Friday at St. John Catholic Church, 1020 Irwin Avenue, Albion, with visitation starting at 10 a.m. Rosary will be recited at 11:45 a.m., and a short funeral Mass will be held at 12:30 p.m., with the Rev. Fr. Joseph Gray officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to: The Kit Young Center, 1185 W. Parnall Road, Jackson, MI 49201.
The family is being assisted with arrangements by Peaceful Journey Memorials, 412 S. Superior Street, Albion, MI 49224. (w/photo)
Raymond J. Gooldy
SKEET, a Jackson County native and Florida retiree, passed away Thursday, July 10, 2014, at the age of 68. (Retired from Miller Brothers Mfg. - Homer, MI.)
He will be dearly missed by his family: daughter, two grandchildren, two sisters (preceded in death by one), brother, and dedicated partner, Rose.
Cremation services were done by Countryside Funeral Home of Anthony, Florida.
Memorial donations may go to ASPCA.org.
May the wings of eagles (or Harley’s) carry him to eternal rest (with a football stadium or race track close by). (w/photo)
July 23, 2014
Dewayne Gene Thomas
Dewayne Gene Thomas, 66, of Litchfield, passed away Saturday, July 19, 2014, at his home.
He was born April 21, 1948, in Quincy - the son of Max and Harriet (Leighner) Thomas. Dewayne graduated from Litchfield High School in 1966, and served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Era. He was a life member of the Albion VFW #3672 and was currently an active participant in the Litchfield Veterans Memorial project. He had been a member of the former I.O.O.F. Lodge in Litchfield and enjoyed gardening and sports.
Survivors include his daughter, Denise (Samuel) Porter and granddaughters, Kaitlyn and Cassidy Porter, all of Albion; and two brothers, Harry (Sandra) Thomas of Litchfield and Arthur (Kathy) Thomas of Homer.
He was preceded in death by his parents, son (Steven Thomas), two sisters (Donna Ruth and Rebecca Sue Thomas), and two brothers (Kenneth and Douglas Thomas).
Visitation was Tuesday from 10-11 a.m. at the Eagle Funeral Home-George White Chapel, Litchfield. Graveside services follow at noon at Mount Hope Cemetery, Litchfield.
Memorials are suggested to the Litchfield Veterans Memorial, c/o Hillsdale County Community Foundation, PO Box 435, Litchfield, MI 49252.
To view this obituary or send condolences, visit www.eaglefuneralhomes.com.
July 30, 2014
Dennis Craig Esterline
Dennis Craig Esterline, age 58, of Blissfield, and formerly of Homer, passed away Wednesday, July 23, 2014, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born September 16, 1955, to CD and Eleanor (Mahrle) Esterline in Marshall.
He was a 1973 graduate of Homer High School. He was a very proud employee of Enbridge Energy for the last 10 years, and he had worked his whole career in the pipeline industry.
He loved watching his son play football at Michigan, going up north, boating, fishing, hunting and working on his cars. His main love in life was spending time with his family.
Dennis is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Renee; four children, Asha (Justin) Wilson, Lexi Esterline, Ari Esterline and Dylan Craig Esterline; a grandson, Wyatt Wilson; his mother, Eleanor Esterline; two brothers, Darrell (Sharon) Esterline of Kalamazoo and Donald (Nancy) Esterline of Marshall; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, and several aunts and uncles.
Visitation for family and friends was held Saturday, July 26, at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home. A funeral service was held Sunday, July 27, at the funeral home.
Family requests casual attire for all who attend visitation or the service. (w/photo)
Melvin K. Hakes
Melvin K. Hakes, 89, of Homer, died Friday, July 25, 2014.
He was born December 1, 1924, in Albion, to William and Ethel Hakes. He married Betty A. (Hickerson) Hakes August 11, 1951, in Homer.
Melvin attended Homer High School. He was a World War II veteran, serving in the United States Navy from October 1942 until he was honorably discharged in February 1946. He was trained at Jim Miller’s machine shop and retired from Eaton Corp. in Marshall in 1987. He was also a volunteer fireman, an avid hunter and fisherman, an accomplished golfer, and enjoyed gardening.
Melvin was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Richard; and sisters, Mildred, Linda, Pauline and Nancy.
He is survived by his wife; brother, Paul; daughters, Dianna (William) Porter and Pamela Thomas; grandchildren, Julia (Kyle Wurtzel) Porter, Jennifer (Adam) Tilley, Jackie Porter, Dustin Thomas, Sarah Thomas and Natasha Summerfield; a great-granddaughter, Linley; and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation took place at the Craig Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, 303 South Hillsdale, Homer, Sunday, July 27, from 3-5 p.m. A memorial service took place Monday, July 28, at the Craig Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel at 11 a.m., with the Rev. Timothy Marvil officiating.
A luncheon followed at the First Presbyterian Church of Homer. A private interment took place at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions are requested to the Kathy Hickerson-Mills Scholarship Fund. Assistance with memorials is available at the Craig Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, 303 South Hillsdale Street, Homer.
Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guest book at www.kempffuneralhome.com.
Marlin A. Dow
Marlin A. “Red” Dow, 77, of Litchfield, passed away Sunday, July 27, 2014, at home.
He was born September 7, 1936, in Hillsdale, to Owen and Vera Bell (Schultz) Dow. He graduated from Hillsdale High School in 1955 and attended Hillsdale College. Red served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict and retired from Albion Malleable Iron Foundry.
Survivors include his wife, Cindy (Buchin) Dow, whom he married February 14, 2002; two daughters, Kelly Cattaneo of Orlando, Florida, and Nichole (Chris) Isaac of Jonesville; two sons, Bradley (Sandy) Dow of Litchfield and Matt (Mandi) Kurpenski of Rives Junction; a brother, Alger (Ann) Dow of Bridgman; grandchildren, Joshua (Courtnee) Dow, Zachary Dow, Max Helm, Tayler Dow, Kalyssa Taylor, Korbin and Kaleb Grider, and Karter Isaac; and four great-grandchildren, Kylee Holbrook, Austyn Dow, Izabella Dow and Audreeona Dow.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, Duane and Wendall Dow.
Visitation is scheduled for today (Wednesday) from 5-8 p.m. at the Eagle Funeral Home-George White Chapel, Litchfield. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home Thursday at noon, with Pastor Daniel Buchin officiating. Cremation will follow. Memorials are suggested to the American Heart Association.
Mr. Dow’s family would like to extend sincere thanks to their loving and supportive neighbors who helped greatly.
To view this obituary or send condolences, visit www.eaglefuneralhomes.com. (w/photo)
August 6, 2014
Hargis Back
Hargis Back, age 72, of Eckford, passed away Sunday, July 27, 2014, at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo surrounded by his family.
He was born June 15, 1942, to Cletis and Ethel (Williams) Back in Big Woods, Kentucky. On June 3, 1963, he married Dixie Coburn whom he loved for 51 years.
He loved old westerns, the outdoors, fishing, deer hunting, and spoiling his dogs and grandchildren.
Hargis is survived by his wife of 51 years, Dixie Back; children, David Back, Carl (Julie) Back, Penny (Jimmy) Johnson and Berl (Amy) Back; 13 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; brothers Manford Back, Kelly Back and David (Marilyn) Back; and his beloved boxer, Joey.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Juanita, Vernie and Faye; and his granddog, Zeus.
Visitation for family and friends was Thursday, July 31, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home. A funeral service followed the visitation. Pastor Ralph McCarty officiated. Interment was held at East Eckford Cemetery in Eckford Township.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family for future discretion.
www.jktiddfuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
James F. Reichow
James F. Reichow, 88, of Albion, passed away Wednesday, July 30, 2014, at the Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice Residence in Battle Creek.
James was born April 27, 1926, at home in Albion to Charles A. and Clara (Cuatt) Reichow. He attended Albion schools and graduated with the Class of 1944. James attended the Agricultural Short Course at Michigan State University after graduating from high school. He met Margaret Jean Bayn and they were married April 15, 1950, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Albion. They had four children together and celebrated 64 years together this year!
James farmed on his family farm all of his life as well as on land of several neighbors. Some of these areas included Jackson County and Concord Township. He retired in 2006, but continued to help out on the farm doing what he loved to do.
James was very involved in his community. He was a member and deacon of the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Albion as well as their Friendship League. He was also a member of Farm Bureau, Progressive Farmers, South Albion Community Club, 4-H, and he was on the school board for the one-room schoolhouse where three of his kids attended and on the Albion Township board for several years.
James and Jean liked to play cards with their friends. One of his favorite games was Pedro. They also loved to travel together. Over the years, they took road trips to various areas. After their daughter Elaine moved to Seattle, that became their destination, and they would drive a different route each time to explore new areas!
He is survived by his wife, Jean Reichow of Albion; sons, Fred (Deb) Reichow of Homer and Doug (Pam) Reichow of Albion; daughters, Elaine Ervin and Dave Campbell of Seattle and Linda (Greg) Hicks of Rockford; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Leona Bormann.
Visitation was Friday, August 1, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, 303 S. Hillsdale Street, Homer.
A funeral service took place Saturday, August 2, at 11 a.m. at the Homer Chapel, with Pastor Dennis Matyas of St. Paul Lutheran Church of Albion officiating the service.
Interment followed the service at Riverside Cemetery of Albion. A luncheon was held following the burial at the St. Paul Lutheran Church of Albion, 100 Luther Blvd., Albion.
Memorials in memory of James can be made out to the St. Paul Lutheran Church or Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice Residence.
Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral homes. To leave the family a personal message and sign the guest book, please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
August 20, 2014
Mazie Foltz
Mazie Foltz, age 73, of Phoenix, Arizona, and formerly of Homer, passed away Sunday, July 20, with her children by her side.
She was born in Kentucky and moved to Homer at the age of 17, where she met and married Thomas Foltz. She worked and retired from Manchester Plastics/Collins & Aikman after 26 years.
She enjoyed spending time with her children, gardening, trips to Laughlin and weekly bingo sessions. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas, and is survived by her two children, Mike (Cheryl) Foltz and Debbie (Butch) Eldred. (w/photo)
Theresa Idell Woods
Theresa Idell Woods, 44, of Homer, became an angel to watch over her family and friends August 11, 2014, after a short but courageous fight with cancer.
Theresa was a 1988 graduate of Homer High School. She worked as a clerical associate at A & J North Butler Store for several years, being a loving mother to her children, Mary, Daniel and Kevin, and loving fiancée to Kevin Thacker, the love of her life.
Theresa loved going to garage sales; riding four wheelers in the mountains of Kentucky; watching her kids play football, basketball and ride their four wheelers. Soaking up the sun by the pool, canning her garden bounty, visiting with her family and taking care of her dogs were the small things in life that made her happy.
Born October 26, 1969, in Albion, to Daniel Woods (Hyden, Kentucky, formerly of Homer) and Mary Woods (Hazard, Kentucky and Homer). Her father survives her.
She leaves behind her fiancée, Kevin Thacker Sr.; her daughter, Mary Cronkite; and two sons, Daniel Cole and Kevin Thacker Jr.; a stepson, Dominick Frazier; along with a sister, Cindy (Ron) Fredericks of Englewood, Ohio; two brothers, James Gibson of Coldwater and Sherman Woods of Homer; as well as many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends to mourn her loss.
Visitation for family and friends was held Thursday, August 14, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, MI, 49224.
A funeral service was held Friday, August 15, at 11 a.m. with visitation at 10 a.m., prior to the service, with Pastor Allen Henson officiating. (w/photo)
August 27, 2014
Charles Franklin McDaniels
Charles Franklin McDaniels, 45, of Battle Creek, died August 23, 2014, after a long battle with cancer.
Charlie was born November 1, 1968, the son of Charles Franklin (Pete) and Charlene Phyllis (Tackett) McDaniels of Homer.
Charles graduated from Homer High School, Kellogg Community College and Nuipe School of Steam Plant Operations.
He was employed by Graphic Packaging of Battle Creek. He also worked at American Axle and Harvard Industries.
Charlie was an avid fisherman and hunter. He enjoyed bowling and spending time with his family and friends.
Charlie was married to Lori Ann Steffka White. She survives.
He leaves behind a son, Jeffrey Charles McDaniels; a daughter, Heather Marie McDaniels of Battle Creek; his father, Charles Franklin (Pete); his stepmother, Ivoleve Joyce McDaniels, of Homer; stepchildren, Merissa and Chris White, and a step granddaughter, Marcella Clemons, all of Battle Creek; sisters, Patricia (Wayne) Martin of Albion and Melinda (Brian) O’Connor of New Paris, Indiana; a stepbrother, Timmy Ray Robinson; stepsisters Dewanna (Bill) Rogers and Amanda (Leonard) Roberts, all of Pikeville, Kentucky; special friend and cousin Tonya Keifer of Homer, along with nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends.
Charlie was preceded in death by his mother Charlene Phyllis McDaniels; grandparents, Charlie and Ora (Golden) McDaniels, and Columbus and Lillie (Little) Tackett.
Visitation took place at the Homer Chapel of Craig Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, Tuesday, August 26, from 2-8 p.m., with family present to greet friends from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.
Funeral services celebrating his life will take place at noon on today (Wednesday, August 27) at the funeral home, with Pastor Earl Martin officiating.
Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Family will gather with friends following the committal services at the Craig Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel reception hall.
Memorial contributions are requested to the family, with checks payable to Lori McDaniels. Assistance with memorials is available at the Kempf Funeral Home.
Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guest book at www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
September 3, 2014 - No obits
September 10, 2014 - No obits
September 17, 2014 - No obits
September 24, 2014
Wayman L. Rossman
Wayman L. Rossman passed away August 28, 2014, after a valiant battle with cancer.
This was a man raised a farmer, put himself through college, created a successful company and was a good father and husband who always stayed true to his roots.
He was born September 18, 1921, in Litchfield, the son of Rex and Mabel Rossman. He grew up on a dairy farm, which instilled a strong work ethic along with a love of the land and outdoors that stayed with him his entire life.
He graduated from Michigan Technological University in 1946 and began a long and successful career as a civil engineer. He wed Donna Jean Gallant in 1952 and they spent most of their lives in Saginaw. They were married for 47 years and had four children. Wayman built Michigan Gypsum Company from scratch for Sargent Sand Company, and the mine never had an unprofitable year under his leadership.
He enjoyed hunting and fishing, gardening, including growing beautiful roses, dancing, golf, cards and was a life master at bridge. Wayman led his children by example, such as the importance of giving your best effort for a day’s wage and that your word is your bond.
He was preceded in death by his parents; nine siblings; wife, Jean; and daughters, Jill and Bethany Rossman. He is survived by his wife of the past 10 years, Margaret Rossman, whose love and companionship made Wayman very happy. He also is survived by his son, Bruce Rossman and beloved daughter-in-law, Linda; son, Rex Rossman; grandchildren, Peter, Sam (Heather) and Molly Rossman; and many nieces and nephews.
Friends and family will gather at Litchfield Greens in Litchfield, Saturday, September 27, for a celebration of Wayman’s life.
An hour of socializing begins at 11 a.m., followed by lunch and a time of sharing memories and tributes. (w/photo)
C.J. “Doc” Howe, Jr.
Dr. C. J. “Doc” Howe, Jr. of Homer, formerly of Hillsdale, passed away Saturday, September 20, 2014, to his eternal home in Heaven in the arms of his loving wife, Connie, just like he wished. He is with his Savior now, free of pain.
He was born August 4, 1926, in Hillsdale, the son of Chauncey J. and Wilma Irene (Grant) Howe.
He is survived by his loving and caring wife of 26 years, Connie Howe, whom he married on September 17, 1988; one daughter, Cynthia (Roy) Meyer of Indiana; granddaughters, Jennifer (David) Danic, Stephanie (Ashley) Swanson and Ashley (Jordan) Eldridge all of Indiana; great-grandchildren, Jude and Shepard Swanson, Jesse Danic and Kenzie Eldridge, all of Indiana; stepdaughters, Dawn (Rob) Green of Homer, Laurie (Randy) Nevins of Concord and Lynette Carr of Homer; stepgrandchildren, Ryan Nevins (fiance’ Brittany Mosher), Donovan Green, Mackenzie Green, Karley Nevins, Marissa Green, and Aubrey and Avery Carr; his father-in-law, Richard Ackerman of Hanover; and two sisters-in-law, Colette (Butch) Lyons of Horton and Annette (Denny) Wellman of Parma. He was preceded in death by his parents; one infant sister, Phyllis Jean Howe; one son, Conrad Jeffrey Howe; and his mother-in-law, Barbara Ackerman.
Doc Howe will sadly be missed by his four-legged friends, “Ginger” and “Spinx”
The family wishes to thank the Oncology Department of Allegiance Health, Doctors Clark, Axelson and Trimble after being a patient for 29 years, they were like family. Thank you to the RNs and the staff there for their care and friendship. He looked forward to going there to see everyone. Thank you to Dr. Aaron VanWagnen and his nurse, Beth Miller, for their care and friendship, and thank you to his most recent hospice nurse, Lisa. The family wishes to express a special thank you to Fred King, Tom Norris and Tracey Faurot who assisted not only as caregivers to Doc, but friendships to Doc which he thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated.
Dr. Howe attended Hillsdale College for pre-optometry and graduated from Northern Illinois College of Optometry in Chicago, with a doctor degree February 4, 1949. He was a member of the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity at Hillsdale College and a member of Omega Delta Professional Optometric Fraternity in Chicago.
Dr. Howe practiced “Professional Optometry” in Hillsdale for 33 years and in Homer for 17 years until his retirement in 1999, thus completing 50 years of practice. After retiring from optometry, he enjoyed being the daycare assistant at his wife, Connie’s, daycare. He was a life member of the Michigan Optometric Association and the American Optometric Association, a former member of the Homer Lions Club and a member of Anchor Baptist Church in Homer.
A funeral service to honor the life of Dr. C. J. “Doc” Howe, Jr. will be held at the Hampton-Kurtz Funeral Home in Hillsdale Thursday, September 25, beginning at 1 p.m., with Pastor Brian Walker and Pastor Robert Marston officiating. Interment will take place in the Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
The family will receive friends for visitation Wednesday from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home in Hillsdale.
Friends who wish may make memorial contributions to Anchor Baptist Church, Homer Firemen’s Association or to RBM Ministries Branch and Calhoun Counties c/o Al and Chris Ross. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit hamptonkurtzfuneralhomes.com to sign the guest book and/or send a condolence to the family.
Hampton-Kurtz Funeral Home, 3380 W. Carleton Road, Hillsdale, MI, 49242. Please call, 517-437-0605.
October 1, 2014
Dennis M. Brigham
Dennis M. Brigham, 66, entered into Heaven August 21, 2014. He passed peacefully with loved ones by his side.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Dowayne J. Brigham and Dona Mae Brigham (Gilmore). He is survived by his brothers, Don and David Brigham; sister, Dona Michelle Hetherwick (Brigham); along with many family and friends.
Cremation services have taken place and burial will be at the convenience of the family.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. October 11 at the Big 9 Sportsman Club, 12000 Folks Road, Concord, MI 49237.
Eagle Funeral Home-George White Chapel, Litchfield.
To view this obituary or send condolences, visit www.eaglefuneralhomes.com.
Sharon Earl Booth
Sharon was born April 23, 1933, at the Booth homesteaded farm in Homer. Sharon was one of the first deliveries made by Dr. R. K. Curry. His parents were Norman and Berniece Booth.
He is survived by his son, Earl of Jackson; brother Jerry and his wife, Susan, of The Villages, Florida; three grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.
Sharon’s death came September 25, 2014, after four bouts with colon cancer over four years. He was predeceased by his wife of 55 years, Marilyn; two sons, Douglas and Leonard; and his sister, Nancy Lowder.
Sharon graduated from Homer in 1950 and attended college in Minnesota. He was employed with Clark Equipment for over 35 years. A special tribute goes to Jeannie Dowding, his companion and caregiver for the past two years.
A memorial service will be held at the Masonic Temple in Homer at 1p.m. Friday.
In lieu of flowers, Sharon requested that memorials/donations be given to the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Sharon’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.michigancremation.com. 616-452-3006.
Edward Walter “Walt” Keller
Edward Walter “Walt” Keller Jr., age 57, of Marshall and formerly of the Homer area, died unexpectedly Thursday, September 18, 2014, at his home.
Mr. Keller was born April 8, 1957, in Kalamazoo to Edward W. and Barbara (Lubic) Keller Sr.
He was a graduate of Homer High School and continued his education attending classes at Kellogg Community College. He had been employed by Tenneco in Litchfield for over 24 years. He retired early due to a disability. Walt served in the Army National Guard in Albion for over 22 years. He was called into active duty and served a tour in Honduras.
Walt enjoyed gambling and going to the area casinos. He also collected baseball cards and was a strong supporter of Josh Collmenter and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Walt was an avid bowler and had bowled in several leagues at the L & J Lanes. His friends at the bowling lanes affectionately called him “Dog.”
He is survived by a sister, Arlene Kay Coburn of Homer; his father, Edward W. Keller Sr. of Burlington; special adopted son, Steve (Melissa Craven) Martinez of Homer; grandchildren, Haley, Adalyn and Matthew Martinez; and eight nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Keller; and a brother, Kim Keller-Lubic.
The family received friends Thursday, September 25, at the Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, 303 S. Hillsdale Street, Homer from 2-4 p.m. A funeral service followed at 4 p.m. at the funeral home.
Friends who wish may make memorial contributions to the Walt Keller Memorial Fund to assist with funeral expenses. Checks should be made payable to Steve Martinez. Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral home.
To leave a personal message and sign the online guest book, please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com.
October 8, 2014
Henry Vest
Henry Vest went to be with the Lord Sunday, September 28, 2014.
He was a man of God, loving father and grandfather, Army veteran and a Red Cross Clown.
He was preceded in death by wife, Mary; is survived by his mother, Mable Otto; seven siblings; children, Donna, Daniel and James; and grandchildren. You will be missed.
Visitation for family and friends was held Wednesday, October 1, from noon to 1 p.m. at the Christ Apostolic Church, 503 N. Superior Street, Albion.
Funeral Service was held Wednesday, October 1, at 1 p.m. at the church, with Pastor David Trammel officiating.
Interment was at Albion Memory Gardens.
Arrangements are entrusted to J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, MI. www.jkevintiddfuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Keith M. Klingaman
Keith M. Klingaman, 84, of Homer, died Sunday, September 28, 2014, peacefully at his home.
Mr. Klingaman was born December 18, 1929, in Tekonsha to Myrl and Helen (Warrington) Klingaman. He graduated from Tekonsha High School in 1947.
He was drafted in the US army during the Korean Conflict and was honorably discharged in 1954. He married Mary Lou Evy October 23, 1951. She preceded him in death in September 1997. In 2002, he married Rebecca Hoaglin, and she preceded him in death in 2011.
Mr. Klingaman was an electrical contractor, starting Klingaman Electric in 1963, and later would buy Albion Electric in 1979 with his son John, and he retired in 2000. He also farmed in the Homer area the majority of his life.
Keith was an avid outdoorsman enjoying hunting, fishing, camping and riding his four-wheeler. He especially enjoyed his hunting trips out west, camping in Alaska and spending time with his children and grandchildren.
He is survived by his children, Judy (Jim) Peters of Sparta, Tennessee, Lois (Bill) Barnes of Monroe, Pam Klingaman of Milford and John (Sheila) Klingaman of Marshall; five grandchildren, Luke McColgan, Brian (Samantha) Barnes, Renee (Trent) Doren, Tyler Klingaman, and Derek (Chloe) Klingaman; and 14 great-grandchildren and one on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents; wives; two grandchildren, Marty and Melissa Isaac; and a sister, Mary Tanner.
Visitation was held at the Craig Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, 303 South Hillsdale Street, Homer, Wednesday, October 1, from 2-8 p.m., with family present to greet friends from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.
Funeral services celebrating his life took place at 11 a.m. Thursday, October 2, at the Craig Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, with the Rev. James Codde officiating. Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery with military honors.
Family gathered with friends following the committal services at the Kempf Funeral Home Reception Hall, Homer Chapel.
Friends who wish to make a memorial contribution in Keith’s memory may do so to the Homer VFW or to the Homer Community Foundation. Assistance with memorials is available at the Kempf Funeral Home, Homer Chapel. Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guest book at kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Millard Lee Dillion
Millard Lee Dillion, 58, of Homer, died Thursday, October 2, 2014, at Allegiance Health System in Jackson.
Millard was born October 28, 1955, in Marshall, to Charles and Zellaree (Sparks) Dillion. He graduated from Homer High School in 1973.
Millard worked for Thorez Company in Jackson for 23 years. He retired in 2002. After his retirement, he worked for Nagels Meats in Homer for the past several years. Millard enjoyed gardening, canning, cooking, playing bass guitar and riding his motorcycle.
He is survived by his children, Jennifer Dillion and Jason Dillion, both of Homer; two grandchildren, Alyssa and Gaige Keller both of Homer; siblings, Evelyn Dillion-Raza, Ronnie (Ilene) Dillion, Charlie Dillion and Rickie Dillion. He was preceded in death by his parents; and sisters, Donna Spencer and Charity French.
A memorial service will take place at 3 p.m. Sunday, October 12, at the Homer VFW Hall 23672 West M-60, Homer.
Memorial contributions are requested to the family. Assistance with memorials is available at the Craig Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, 303 South Hillsdale Street, Homer. Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guest book at www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
John Henry Carr
John Henry Carr Jr., of Homer, went to be with the Lord October 1, 2014.
John was born January 3, 1935, in Allen, Kentucky. John was preceded in death by his parents, John Henry Carr and Lucinda Carr Bentley also from Kentucky. John had four brothers, Kit Carr, Vernard Carr, Joe Carr and Charles Carr; and five sisters, Peggy Kilgore, Maggie Leonard, Elizabeth George, Nova Mulkey and Mary Ellen.
John met and married his lifelong sweetheart and soul mate, Ada Sue Roberts from Pikesville, Kentucky, in October 1953. Their 61-year union blessed them with four daughters, Brenda (Ray) Wirebaugh of Homer, Wanda (William) Weston of Horton, Rose (Chris) Bouldney of Concord and Melissa (Dave) Marshall of Homer.
In addition, John and Sue have 10 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by siblings, Vernard Carr, Charles Carr, Peggy Kilgore and Elizabeth George; sisters-in-law, Betty Brown and Kay Johnson; and a special niece Geraldine Caddock.
John loved the outdoors and took extreme pride in his garden. His hobbies included watching the Detroit Tigers, attending flea markets, traveling and spending time with his family.
John had been employed by the Union Steel Products Company in Albion for 33 years. He retired in 1995. John and Sue have made Homer “home” for 25 years.
A funeral service to celebrate the gift of his life was held at 1 p.m. Monday, October 6, at the Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, with Pastor Jimmy Collins officiating. Interment followed at the Spring Arbor Cemetery.
A luncheon was held following the committal service at Riverside Baptist Church, Homer. Serving as pallbearers were Travis Penza, Chris Bouldrey, Bill Weston, Dave Marshall, Charlie Fisher, Ray Wirebaugh and Jeremiah Judd.
Friends who wish may make memorial contributions to the Great Lakes Hospice. Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral home.
To leave a personal message and sign the online guest book, please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
October 15, 2014
Harold D. Elston
Harold D. Elston, age 87, of Eckford and Homer area, passed away Wednesday, October 8, 2014, at Marshall Nursing & Rehab.
He was born February 26, 1927, in Pleasant Lake, Indiana, to George F. and Elva E. (Timmons) Elston. He married Doris L. Koons August 20, 1949, who preceded him in death July 27, 2014.
He was employed with Willow Run School District for 30 years where he retired as a teacher’s assistant. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952-1954, and was a member of the American Legion in Marshall.
Harold is survived by sons, Kevin (Valerie) Elston of Raleigh, North Carolina, and Erik (Jessica) Elston of Albion; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Doris.
Visitation for family and friends will be held Thursday, October 16, from 5-8 p.m. at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, Michigan 49224.
A funeral service will be held Friday, October 17, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home, with Pastor Mike Peters officiating. Interment will follow at West Eckford Cemetery, Eckford Township.
Memorial contributions can be made to West Eckford Missionary Church, 19697 F Drive, Marshall, MI 49068.
www.jkevintiddfuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Betty Ann Hakes
Betty Ann Hakes, 87, of Homer, died Friday, October 10, 2014.
She was born September 30, 1927, in Albion, to Leila Pearl Evans and John Hickerson. She married Melvin K. Hakes on August 11, 1951. He preceded her in death Friday, July 25, 2014.
Betty was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Homer. She enjoyed spending time with family, including her daughters and their families.
She worked hard her whole life to put others first. Her excellent cooking will be missed by all.
She graduated from Homer High School in 1945, and worked at State Farm Insurance in Marshall, retiring in 1988. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the First Presbyterian Etta Prentiss Circle.
She was preceded in death by her husband; siblings, Archie Hickerson, Jack Hickerson, Charles (Bill) Hickerson, Dorothy (Dot) Clark and Barbara Dubert; stepfather, Herb Evans; and a niece, Kathy A. Mills.
She is survived by her daughters, Dianna Porter (William) and Pamela Thomas; grandchildren, Julia (Kyle Wurtzel) Porter, Jennifer (Adam) Tilley, Jackie Porter, Dustin Thomas, Sara Thomas and Natasha Summerfield; great-granddaughter, Linley; and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, October 16, at Craig Kempf Funeral Home, Homer Chapel, 303 S. Hillsdale Street, Homer.
A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. Friday, October 17, at the funeral home. A luncheon will follow at the First Presbyterian Church of Homer.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Kathy Hickerson-Mills Memorial Scholarship Fund through the Homer High School Alumni Association.
October 22, 2014
Virginia A. Sweet
Virginia A. Sweet, age 88, of Bonita Springs, Florida, and formerly of Marshall, died Friday, October 10, 2014, at Kiva at Canterbury Assisted Living.
Mrs. Sweet was born April 16, 1926, in Nashville to Lee A. and Gertrude L. (Thorstinson) Clutter. She was a homemaker.
A marriage to William “Bill” Holden ended in divorce. She married Cecil L. Sweet January 25, 1957. He preceded her in death May 8, 1997.
Virginia was a former member of the Marshall Moose Lodge #676, the Michigan Milk Producers Association and the Michigan Harness Horse Association. She is remembered by her family as a hardworking farmer’s wife, and was a loving mother and grandmother.
She is survived by daughters, Lucretia (Walter) Adams of Litchfield, Rose Marie Huckfeldt of Homer, Beverly (Clarence) Hammel of Coldwater, Shirley (Glenn) Brail of Marshall, Barbara (John) Townsend of Bellevue and Sandra Kelly of Battle Creek; sons, Edwin T. Holden of Quincy, James (Carol) Sweet of Zephyrhills, Florida, Douglas L. (Anna) Sweet of Bonita Springs; 16 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by sisters, Lela Thorn and Madeline Dubois; brothers, Paul Clutter, Stanley Clutter, Clyde Clutter, Leroy Clutter and Karl Clutter; three grandsons; a granddaughter; a great-great-grandson; and a son-in-law.
The family will receive friends Friday, October 24, from 6-8 p.m. at the Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, 723 Old US Hwy 27 North, Marshall.
A funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, October 25 at the funeral home, with the Rev. Brandon Crawford officiating. Interment will follow in Bentley Corners Cemetery, Clarendon Township, Homer.
Friends who wish may make memorial contributions to the Vitas Community Connections, 4980 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, FL 34108.
Assistance with memorials is available at the Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes.
To leave a personal message and sign the online guest book, please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
October 29, 2014 - No obits
November 5, 2014 - No obits
November 12, 2014 - No obits
November 19, 2014
Mary Lee Ziegler
Mary Lee Ziegler, 65, of Litchfield, passed away at home Saturday, November 15, 2014.
She was born February 25, 1949, in Albion, to Vernon and Mae (Oestrike) Ziegler. Mary Lee graduated in 1967 from Litchfield High School and from Central Michigan University. She became a paralegal and worked for Glen Ziegler Attorney at Law.
She was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hillsdale. Mary Lee devoted her life to others and loved spending time with her family, reading and working jigsaw puzzles.
Survivors include two sisters, Carol Sue (George) Hawkes; and Patricia Lee Ziegler, both of Litchfield; two brothers, Gary R. Ziegler of Litchfield and Glen Ziegler of Hillsdale.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Kurt; and a nephew, Derick.
Visitation is scheduled for Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. at the Eagle Funeral Home - George White Chapel, Litchfield, and Thursday from 10-11 a.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, in Hillsdale.
Funeral services will be held Thursday at 11 a.m. at the church, with the Rev. Dan Johnson officiating.
Interment will follow in St. Paul’s Cemetery in Hillsdale.
Memorials are suggested to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.
To view this obituary or send condolences, visit www.eaglefuneralhomes.com.
November 26, 2014 - No obits
December 3, 2014
Ezra Shepherd
Ezra Shepherd, 74, of Litchfield, died November 19, 2014, at his home.
Mr. Shepherd was born June 12, 1940, in Floyd County, Kentucky, to Joe and Mary Jane (Reffitt) Shepherd. He married Magdalene Ratliff in Kentucky December 23, 1959. Their marriage ended in divorce.
Mr. Shepherd worked as a coal miner in Kentucky before moving to Michigan, after which time he worked at McGraw-Edison in Albion for 15 years, then retired to open used furniture stores in Litchfield and Albion.
He was also a musician, playing in several bands with his brothers, and raced cars at a local track for several years. Mr. Shepherd enjoyed a life-long passion for music, and could always be found tinkering with his numerous computers, music equipment and electronics he had acquired.
He is survived by his children, Ricky Shepherd of Marshall, Sherry (Jim) Maurer of Coldwater, and Randy (Annette Newsome) Shepherd of Homer; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and siblings, Isola Prater of Litchfield, Mae Watkins of Burlington, Fred Shepherd of Albion; Colleen March, Earl Shepherd, Teresa Vest and Faye Woodman, all of Battle Creek. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Estelle Shepherd, and sister, Vicki Sneed.
Visitation took place at the Craig K Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, 303 South Hillsdale Street Monday, November 24, from 10-11 a.m., with a funeral service taking place at 11 a.m., with Pastor Jim Snyder officiating.
Interment of cremated remains followed at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
Assistance with memorials is available at the Kempf Family Funeral Homes. Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guest book at www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Roscoe James Corey
Roscoe James Corey, 85, of Litchfield, passed away Wednesday, November 26, at Arbor Manor in Spring Arbor.
He was born December 28, 1928, in Litchfield, to Lester and Anna (Meiser) Corey.
Roscoe graduated from Litchfield High School in 1947, and served in the U.S. Army. He was employed at Simpson Industries until retirement, and was a member of the Litchfield United Methodist Church.
Survivors include his son, Craig (Elise) Corey of Florence, South Carolina; two grandchildren, Adam and Rachel Corey-Smith; two step-children, Steven and Cindy; a sister-in-law, Mary Corey of Toledo; and nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Janice (Worden); two brothers, Darrel and Raymond Corey; and two sisters, Miriam Smith and Thelma Larson.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at the Eagle Funeral Home-George White Chap-el in Litchfield, with the Rev. Julie Yoder Elmore officiating. Interment will follow in Mount Hope Cemetery, Litchfield. Visitation is scheduled Friday from noon until time of service.
Memorials are suggested to the Litchfield United Methodist Church or a charity of one’s choice.
The Corey family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff at Arbor Manor for their excellent care and dedication to Roscoe during this difficult time.
To view this obituary or send condolences, visit Eaglefuneralhomes.com.
December 10, 2014
Jean Marian Whaley
Jean Marian Whaley, 73, of Homer, passed away Monday, December 1, 2014, at Marshall Nursing and Rehab.
She was born March 6, 1941, in Homer, to Jerry and Mary (Aldridge) Cevela. She graduated from Litchfield High School in 1959, and served in the U.S. Navy. Jean worked many years in retail sales and industrial companies. She loved crocheting, hand crafts and sponsoring the Boy Scouts.
Survivors include two daughters, Sherry (Rodney) Baldwin of Corona, California, and Teresa Raymond (Rob Gallo) of Parma; two sons, Ray (Crystal) Whaley of Texas City, Texas, and David (Katrina) Whaley of Osseo; two sisters, Jerilyn (Chuck) Estep of Homer and Judy (Lyndy) Hunt of McLeod, Montana; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Jim Cevela.
Funeral services were 11 a.m. Saturday, at the Eagle Funeral Home-George White Chapel, Litchfield, with the Rev. Thomas Hollowood officiating. Interment will follow in Mount Hope Cemetery, Litchfield. Visitation was Friday from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.
Memorials are suggested to the Boy Scouts of America or Breast Cancer Society.
To view this obituary or send condolences, visit eaglefuneralhomes.com.
December 17, 2014
Willis Miller
Willis Miller, of Homer, passed away Wednesday, December 10, 2014, at home with his loving family by his side.
He was born in Gapville, Kentucky, to Fred and Minerva (Prater) Miller. In 1971 he married Doris Huff.
Willis went into the Army in 1969 to serve his country. He worked the first few years of his adult life on the Floyd Lynn Farms and Factories until 1981. He then moved to Kentucky for 13 years and worked for the Kentucky Department of Transportation, where he retired on disability in 1995, and moved back to Michigan.
In the 1970s, Willis was a member of Bible Baptist Church, later, First Baptist in McDowell, Kentucky, Level Park Baptist in Battle Creek and was currently a member of First Baptist Church in Albion.
He loved to hunt, fish, garden, tend to his horses, and the last 10 years enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.
Willis is survived by his wife, Doris Miller, of Homer; a daughter, Melissa Fouts; sons, Michael (Ericka) Miller and Matthew (Tammy) Miller; grandchildren, Molly, Leeanne, Christopher, Lucas, Alexis, Ruthie and Carter; siblings, Josephine Hoyt, Thomas (Minnie) Miller, Washington (Shirley) Miller and Barbara (Lance) Bodner, all of Homer, Janice (Dalice) Williams of Litchfield, Willard (Mary) Miller of Jackson, Glenna (Tilden) Elkins of West Liberty, Kentucky, Dallis (Linda) Miller of Murfreesboro, Tennessee; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Kathleen Litton and Charles Ray Miller.
Visitation for family and friends was Sunday, December 14, from 5-8 p.m. at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, MI 49224. A funeral service was held Monday, December 15, at 10:30 a.m. at the First Baptist Church, 980 Haven Road, Albion, with Pastor Thomas Hollowood and Pastor Ronald Kinzel officiating.
Interment was at 2:30 p.m. Monday at Ft. Custer National Cemetery, Augusta.
Memorial contributions can be made to Great Lakes Hospice and American Cancer Society. (w/photo)
December 24, 2014
John D. Bartley
John D. Bartley, age 64, of Homer, passed away at Borgess Hospital Wednesday, December 10, 2014, while in the loving care of his family.
John was born September 26, 1950, in Hellier, Kentucky, to Robert and Helen Ruth (Osborne) Bartley. The family moved to Clarendon Township in 1954, and John has lived on the same land since then. He was a 1968 graduate of Homer High School.
After high school graduation, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, starting a 41-year career of service to his country. He served in Germany and was honorably discharged from the regular Army December 20, 1971, and entered service in the U.S. Army Reserve and Army National Guard. In 1985, he was awarded The Army Achievement Medal for Meritorious Achievement consistently exceeding his superior’s expectations, for his motivation and technical competence, and espirit de corps while serving as a Sergeant in B Battery, First Battalion 119th Field Artillery. He was honorably discharged from the Army National Guard March 31, 1995, and retired from the U.S. Army September 26, 2010.
While home on leave, his brother Randy kept after John telling him, “I’ve got the perfect girl for you!” John overcame his skepticism of his little brother’s choices and agreed to meet Karen Lee Bonogofsky at the Homer Grill. The couple started dating, fell in love and were married September 29, 1972, at her parent’s home. They have enjoyed a loving and fruitful marriage since.
John worked for over 20 years as a truck driver for Litchfield Grain, a job he loved. He particularly enjoyed delivering to the Amish, who looked forward to the box of suckers he carried for them! He retired in 2010. Prior to that, he worked at Kelsey-Hayes in Jackson, and Farley Brother’s Nursery in Albion.
He was a member of St.Catherine Catholic Church in Concord and their Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed participating in the K of C Tootsie Roll drive, and had sent a box of Tootsie Rolls to his grandson “D,” where he was serving with the Marine Corps!
John was a spiritual man who enjoyed reading the Gospel. He was a member of the American Legion. He had volunteered at the Hillsdale County Medical Care Facility, where his wife has worked for several years at Christmas time. He actually had come to enjoy taking on the role of Santa after he grew a beard that gave him great resemblance to the jolly fellow! He liked to hand out candy canes to children and share the real story of St. Nicholas with them. He was a charitable and giving man, always remembering Caring and Sharing in Homer with a pickup truck of food at Christmas, and by dropping in to say hi on a regular basis.
John enjoyed deer, squirrel and rabbit hunting. He was a people person, who loved to tease and laugh with family and friends. Regular stops for coffee and conversation at Gale’s Barber Shop were the norm! He loved his life as a husband, father and grandfather. He gave all of his grandchildren a nickname and their own special song! When friends and family visited John and Karen’s home, they were treated John’s favorite foods, as he displayed the “southern hospitality” he grew up with. He collected old walking sticks, and would often take one with him as they were great conversation pieces. He was a hobby farmer and enjoyed Bluegrass music.
Surviving are his wife, Karen; their children Tanya R. Kilgore of Homer, Peter M. (Amanda) Bartley of Hanover and Joel E. (Jaimie) Bartley of Homer; 13 grandchildren; his brother, Randy (Debi) Bartley of Springport; sisters, Mary Schwark of Union City, Dorothy (Ray) Smith of Tekonsha and Dianne Parsons of Burlington; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation was held at Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel Monday. Funeral services were held at the Homer Chapel Tuesday, December 16, at 10:30 a.m. with deacon Ken Snyder officiating. Committal services with military honors were held at Ft. Custer National Cemetery at 1 p.m. A fellowship followed at the Kempf Family Funeral Homes Homer Chapel’s Reception Hall.
The family suggests memorials be made to Homer’s Caring and Sharing. Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral home.
To leave family a message and sign the online guest register, visit kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Dale E. Willis
Dale E. Willis, age 73, of Marshall, died Tuesday, December 16, 2014, at Oaklawn Hospital after a brief illness.
Dale was born January 25, 1941, in Marshall, to Frank R. and Donna C. (Masters) Willis. He was raised in Marshall, the second oldest of his parents’ eight children. Dale attended Marshall Schools and was a member of the Marshall High School graduating class of 1961. Dale was a talented athlete, playing football, basketball and baseball for the Marshall Redskins.
He attended Kellogg Community College and played basketball for the KCC Bruins. Dale started his 31 year career with Eaton Corporation in Marshall in 1963, using his earnings to help support all of his family. Dale retired from Eaton’s in 1994, where he was a supervisor in the differential division.
But that was only his first retirement. Dale, ever active, then worked at numerous jobs, including with his friend Woody Dunham at Caleb Dunham Cheese, and for 10 years at the Kitchen Outlet Shop, from where he again retired in January of 2014.
Dale was married to Connie Blue in Homer in 1962. Their marriage ended in divorce in 1995.
Dale found love again, and was married to Jacqueline S. “Jackie” (Heddon) Warsop January 26, 2000.
He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. Dale remained very active with his son’s families and loved every minute of it. The grandchildren got to experience Dale’s legendary sense of humor, with all getting nicknames and adequate teasing! He was very proud of all of them.
Dale lived all of his life in Marshall and Homer. He continued with his love of athletics during his lifetime. He refereed both high school and collegiate basketball games for 25 years, and umpired girl’s softball for eight years. Dale played softball and basketball in both Homer and Marshall adult leagues for many years. Dale religiously read the sports pages in the newspaper and retained what he read. He could tell you who played for who, when and their stats, if asked! He enjoyed watching all sports but in particular he liked Tiger baseball and MSU sports.
He loved to golf, and never turned down a chance for a golf outing! He played at Alwyn Downs in the Moose League and B & E League. He was a member of Marshall Moose Lodge #676 for many years. While living in Homer, he was a member of the Homer United Methodist Church and had served as a trustee on the church board. Dale was a member of the Homer Athletic Boosters Club, where he will be remembered for his design of unique baseball uniforms for one season that his sons Tony and Nick wore proudly!
Dale is survived by his wife, Jackie; his sons and daughters-in-law, Tony and Kim Willis and Nick and Rebecca Willis, all of Homer; and Mitchell and Amie Willis of Midland; his seven grandchildren, Anna, Erin, Joey, Hayden, Devin, Garrett and Savanna Willis; his mother, Donna C. Willis of Marshall, his sister, Marilyn Hess of East Grand Rapids; and six brothers and sisters-in-law, Milford and Janice Willis of Newport News, Virginia, Larry and Betty Willis of Pennfield, Arnold and Patricia Willis of Lee Lake, Frank D. and Bobbi Willis of Paw Paw, Gene and Michele Willis of Coldwater, and Michael and Colleen Willis of Marshall; and many nieces and nephews.
Visitation was held at Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Marshall Chapel FRIDAY, December 19, with family will be present to greet friends and share memories. Services celebrating Dale’s life were held Saturday, December 20, at 11 a.m. at the Marshall Chapel. Cremation followed. A post-funeral reception followed in the funeral home’s reception hall.
Dale’s family would prefer that people remember him with a contribution to the Corporal Christopher Kelly Willis Foundation that provides for children of veterans who lost their lives or were disabled serving in Afghanistan or Iraq. This fund was very special to Dale and all of his family, as it was established in his nephew’s memory after his accidental death. For more information, visit Willisfoundation.net.
To leave a message for the family and sign the online guest register, please visit kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Boston Lee Blair
Boston Lee Blair, 31, of Jonesville, passed away Sunday, December 21, 2014, at his home.
He was born June 9, 1983, in Marshall, Michigan, to Billy Blair and Amber Beattie.
Boston graduated from Jonesville High School in 2001 and received a specialized Harley-Davidson mechanic degree from Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in Phoenix, Arizona. He was employed in the Tool Room at Tenneco in Litchfield. Boston served his country in the United States Marine Corps Reserve from 2001-2009 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was an avid Harley-Davidson enthusiast who also enjoyed hunting, country music and karaoke. Boston loved spending time with his family and friends, especially his boys.
Survivors include the love of his life for 12 years, Courtney Amrhein of Jonesville; two sons, Brennen and Branson Blair of Jonesville; mother, Amber Beattie and Glenn Timpe of Ann Arbor; father, Billy (Becky) Blair of Concord; sister, Amanda (Zach) Hubbard of Hudson; paternal grandparents, Bill and Sue Blair of Concord; mother- and father-in-law, Oralie Jo and Gary Amrhein of Jonesville; two sisters-in-law, Laurie (Jeremy) Knepfler of Jonesville and Brianna (Brent) Calligan of Hillsdale; step-grandfather, Steve Morgan of Litchfield; several extended family members; and his Blue Angel M.C. Brothers.
Boston was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents.
A celebration of life memorial visitation for Boston Blair will be Saturday, December 27, from 5-8 p.m. at the VanHorn-Eagle Funeral Home in Hillsdale.
Memorial donations are suggested to the family. Online condolences at www.eaglefuneralhomes.com. (w/photo)
Tyler Ball
Tyler Ball, 18, of Homer, died December 20, 2014.
Friends may call at Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel Friday from 2-8 p.m., with family present from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.
Services will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. at the Homer Chapel.
Memorials may be directed to the family, with checks made out to Melanie Ball.
A full obituary will appear in next week’s Index. www.kempffuneralhome.com.
December 31, 2014
Tyler Ball
Tyler Ball, 18, of Homer, passed away Sunday, December 21, 2014, at his home.
Tyler was born June 24, 1996, in Marshall, to Tracy Fred Ball and Melanie Ann (Wagner) Ball. He has lived in Homer all of his life and graduated from Homer High School in 2014. He ran track for one season for the Trojans until he tore a ligament in his leg.
While attending high school, Tyler started working construction jobs with his uncle Jim Wagner’s company, Ronald J. Wagner Construction. He has held this job the past five years and planned on it being his career. Recently, he worked on the store renovation project in downtown Homer.
If Tyler wasn’t working, you’d find him with a fishing pole in his hand at area fishing spots, especially his and his father Tracy’s favorite “honey spot” even sometimes at 2 a.m.! He always kept a pole in his car in case time and location permitted wetting his line!
He was a talented sketch artist and enjoyed drawing. Tyler enjoyed hanging out with his buddies, especially his very special cousin Shannon Wagner, with whom he grew up and graduated high school with. His parents noted that what Tyler didn’t think of, Shannon would! He liked all types of music, but especially classic rock and roll. Tyler just finished putting up a garage at the family home with his father, where the two looked forward to working together on cars.
He is survived by his parents, Tracy and Melanie Ball of Homer; his brothers, Cody and Blake Ball, both at home; maternal grandparents, Jim and Mary Worthington of Homer, and Ronald Wagner of Parma; his paternal grandmother, Ida Lorenz of Homer; and maternal great-grandmother, Marlene Semon of Homer; his uncles, Jim Wagner, Travis (Bliss) Baker, Nathan (Amanda) Baker, Dave Ball, Mike Ball, Chris Ball, Brian Lorenz, Matthew Wagner and Tim Semon; his special cousin with whom he was “joined at the hip” during their life together, Shannon Wagner of Homer; and many other cousins.
Tyler was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Fred Ball; paternal step-grandfather, Jack Lorenz; his great-grandparents, Leola and Will Lather; his great-grandfather, David Semon; and his aunts, Sarah Wagner and Deborah Perkins.
Family received friends at the Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, 303 S. Hillsdale Street, Friday and shared memories.
Services were held at the Homer Chapel Saturday, with Pastor Mark VanValin officiating. Cremation followed services.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family at the funeral home with checks made out to Melanie Ball.
To sign the online guest register and leave family a message, please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
January 1, 2014
Rose Rita Richardson
Rose Rita Richardson, 77, of Homer, died Monday, December 23, 2013, at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor following a stroke.
Mrs. Richardson was born March 21, 1936, in Marshall to Henry P. and Mabel L. (Bellairs) Woods. She graduated from Marshall High School in 1954 and attended Elkhart Business College for dental assisting. She married Rolin L. Richardson at Saint Mary Catholic Church in Marshall November 7, 1959.
Mrs. Richardson was a homemaker - staying home and taking care of her family. She worked for a short time at the G.C. Murphy Five and Dime, State Farm Insurance Company, Woodland Metal and S.H. Leggitt Company all, in Marshall. She was a member of the Saint John Catholic Church of Albion, 4-H Club, Marshall Women of the Moose, Homer VFW Auxiliary, Child Study Club, Monday Club and the Homer Historical Society. Mrs. Richardson enjoyed sewing, cooking, working in her flower garden and crocheting scarves. She was an avid reader and enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren. One of her treasured lifetime accomplishments was raising her six children and taking care of Rolin.
She is survived by her husband Rolin of Homer and six children, Marcie (Clyde) Glass of Queen City, Texas, Diane (Tom) Marsh of South Bend, Indiana, Paul (Carol) Richardson of Verdigris, Oklahoma, Joan (Scott) Isham of Tekonsha, Jane (Richard) Sleight of Leroy, Illinois, and Angie (Kyle) Uramkin of Otsego. She is also survived by 11 grandchildren, one great-grandchild and six siblings. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Keith Woods; sister, Marie Woods; and two grandchildren.
Visitation took place at the Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home Thursday, December 26. A funeral mass took place at 10 a.m. Friday, December 27, at Saint John Catholic Church in Albion, with the Rev. Father Joseph Gray officiating. Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery in Homer, with Deacon Ken Snyder officiating.
Family gathered with friends following the committal services at First Presbyterian Church of Homer. The family requests memorial contributions be made to the Homer Library. Assistance with memorials is available at the Kempf Funeral Home. Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guest book at www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Crash kills Homer woman
by Kelly Gampel
Karen Ward, 51, of Homer, died in a single vehicle car crash early Friday morning.
Calhoun County Sheriff deputies were dispatched to L Drive South near 22 Mile Road in Clarendon Township in reference to the single car accident at approximately 7:23 a.m. December 27.
Calhoun County Sheriff Department’s Captain Steve Eddy said it appears Ward was traveling eastbound on L Drive South, lost control of her SUV due to “slushy road” conditions and struck a tree. She died at the scene.
She was not wearing her seatbelt at the time of the crash, according to Eddy. He said it is known she left for work earlier that morning.
Deputies were assisted by the Homer Fire Department.
Ward worked at CareLinc as a respiratory therapist and was an Army veteran.
Ward was a 1980 graduate of Marshall High School and a graduate of Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, where she majored in music.
She is survived by her husband, Matthew Ward of Homer; children, Paige, Devon and Clayton Ward of Homer; father, Rolland Face of Marshall; brothers, Victor (Karen) Face of Homer and Jeffery (Darcie) Face of Fremont, Indiana; and several close aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
January 8, 2014 - No Obits
January 15, 2014
Erika A. Hergert
Erika A. Hergert, 67, of Litchfield, passed away Monday, January 6, 2014, at Carelink of Jackson.
She was born February 16, 1946, in Sulzbach-Rosenberg, Germany, and retired from Fairway Products in Hillsdale after 30 years of service. She and her husband Charles, whom she married January 5, 1978, were motorcycle enthusiasts and members of ABATE of Michigan. Erika also enjoyed gardening and flowers. She was preceded in death by her mother, Margarete Bauer.
Visitation was Thursday, January 9, from 5-8 p.m. at the Eagle Funeral Home-George White Chapel, Litchfield. Memorial services were held Friday, January 10, at the Litchfield Congregational Church, with the Rev. Michael Murray officiating.
Memorials are suggested to the Litchfield Congregational Church. To view this obituary and send condolences, visit www.eaglefuneralhomes.com.
Crystal Starr LaFountain
Crystal Starr LaFountain passed into the loving arms of our Heavenly Father Saturday, January 4, 2014.
A lifelong resident of Homer, she was born in Marshall March 23, 1977, to Lana Swan and the late Doug LaFountain. She was born with health issues no child should ever have to face.
Crystal’s courage and strength from birth were an inspiration to all who knew her. Many more medical hurdles would be placed in Crystal’s path throughout her life, but her determination and will to live carried her over them. Crystal’s happiness was music - all kinds of music. Some of her favorites were KISS, Rob Thomas, Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Jackyl. She loved to share her love of a new song or new band with whomever she could, and her enthusiasm and passion were contagious. She met many of her rock n’ roll idols, collecting autographs and pictures of the stars that brought her so much happiness. In her book of poetry that was published in 2001, many of her poems were dedicated to her favorite rock stars.
She loved to travel, to see new places and meet new people. She especially loved New York City. Crystal was a loving and compassionate friend to many, many people. She was dynamic, outgoing, and loved life with all her heart. Her personality lit up any room she was in, like a thousand brilliant stars. Her infectious laugh was much like the music she loved, it brought joy to the many people who loved her.
Above all else she cherished each and every one of her family members. They were her strength and comfort. Her faith in God, His ability to heal and the power of prayer got her through many dark days and nights. She will live forever in our hearts and to all she would say “PEACE, LOVE, MUSIC.”
Crystal is survived by her mother, Lana Swan; brothers, Douglas (Sharon) LaFountain, Cody LaFountain, Shane Leiter, Brent Tackett, Adam Tackett and Ryan Tackett; sisters, Anna (Tony) Mellow and Leanna Keller; a niece, Ashley Guerrero; a nephew, Riley LaFountain; grandmothers, Joann Swan and Ruth Peters; many aunts, uncles, cousins and special friends; and her stepmother Lori LaFountain.
She was preceded in death by her father, Douglas LaFountain; grandfathers, George I. Swan and Harold LaFountain; and nephews Kaden LaFountain and Austin LaFountain.
Visitation for family and friends was held Friday, January 10, at the First Baptist Church in Marshall. The funeral service followed the visitation, with Pastor David Good officiating.
Memorial contributions may be sent to Disabled Veterans, 477 Michigan Ave., Room 1200, Detroit, Michigan 48226 or World Wildlife Fund, 1250 24th Street NW, Washington, DC 20037.
J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion will be handling the funeral arrangements. (w/photo)
Nancy Anne Schartzer
Nancy Anne Schartzer, 91, of Bryan, Ohio, passed away Thursday, January 9, 2014, in her home in Bryan.
Nancy was born February 22, 1922, in Toledo, Ohio, to the late Paul S. and Dorothy (Diebel) Mason.
She was a 1940 graduate of Defiance High School. Nancy married John William Schartzer October 13, 1945, in Defiance and he preceded her in death February 16, 2010.
The Schartzer family lived in Homer for over ten years. Nancy was a sales clerk at the former Carroll-Ames in Bryan for 25 years. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Bryan. Nancy was a volunteer for Meals on Wheels. She also assisted with outreach and the weekly free meal prepared by the Presbyterian Church. She loved to play bridge, go to auctions and garage sales. She dearly loved her cat Rusty and her friends.
Surviving is her daughter, Sue Ann Schartzer of Muskegon; daughter-in-law, Susan Schartzer of Goshen, Indiana; and one brother, Peter Mason of Sparks, Nevada. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John; her son, Joel Schartzer; and two brothers, William and Richard Mason.
A springtime gathering will be held to celebrate Nancy’s life. Interment will be made in Brown Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Oberlin-Turnbull Funeral Home, 206 North Lynn Street, Bryan, Ohio.
In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the Williams County Humane Society “Schartzer Memorial Cat Adoption Fund,” 09464 County Road 13, Bryan, OH 43506, or to the Williams County Public Library, 107 East High Street, Bryan, OH 43506.
Condolences may be sent to the family or the online guest book may be signed at www.oberlinturnbull.com. (w/photo)
January 22, 2014
Harold “Jr.” Denbrock
Harold “Jr.” Denbrock, 64, of Homer, passed away Friday, January 17, 2014, at Bronson Battle Creek.
He was born December 3, 1949, in Albion. He was the son of Harold and Elizabeth (Bartlett) Denbrock, Sr. He graduated from Litchfield High School in 1968, and was employed as a car hauler for Leaseway Motor Freight. He had also worked as a milk hauler and enjoyed farming and hauling grain with his father-in-law.
Junior was a member of the Albion Elks Lodge, Teamsters Local 580, Michigan Milk Producers Association and the Kalamazoo Antique Tractor Club.
He married Brenda Flint April 17, 1970, and she survives. Also surviving are two daughters, Penny Denbrock of Homer and Peggy (Jeff) Middleton of Jacksonville, North Carolina; three special daughters, Wendy Nantz of Galesburg, April Peck of Homer and Susan Wenderoth of Allentown, Pennsylvania; one sister, Durene Renfro of Tekonsha; one brother, Albert Denbrock of Marshall; one brother-in-law, Roger Alison of Jackson; one son-in-law, Randy Sprague of Homer; five grandchildren, Dakota, Ashley and Dylan Sprague, and Colin and Elizabeth Middleton; three special grandchildren, Jacob, Sierra and Zachary Nantz; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Karen Denbrock, Clytie Denbrock and Sharon Alison; and a son, Scott.
Memorial services were scheduled for Tuesday at 11 a.m. at the Eagle Funeral Home-George White Chapel, Litchfield, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating. Memorial visitation was Monday. Memorials are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or University of Michigan Pediatric Oncology.
To view this obituary and send condolences, visit georgewhitefuneralhome.com.
January 29, 2014
Patricia S. Tackett
Patricia S. Tackett, 54, of Homer, passed away Sunday, January 19, 2014, at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami, Florida. She was born September 8, 1959, to Robert H. and Myrna J. (Beck) Semon in Jackson. She married Kent D. Tackett, who survives.
Patricia was a loving woman who was always smiling and enjoyed helping and talking to everyone. She enjoyed shopping, bird watching and traveling with Kent. Most of all, Patricia loved her family, especially spending time and spoiling her grandchildren. In addition, Patricia will be dearly missed by her faithful furry friend “Sadie.”
Patricia is survived by husband, Kent Tackett; sons, Kirk (Tammy) Tackett and Michael (Ashley) Tackett; daughter, Trisha (Kyle) Meeks; grandchildren, Landon Winder, Hayden Meeks, Charlie and Frankie Tackett; sister, Deedee Judy; mother-in-law, Texann Tackett; and several aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Myrna Semon; brother, Mike Semon; and father-in-law, Russell Tackett.
Visitation for family and friends was held Sunday, January 26, at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, and Monday, January 27, at noon until the time of service at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery, Homer Township. (w/photo)
February 5, 2014
Joyce Marie Cooper
Joyce Marie (Craven) Cooper, age 67, of Linn Creek, Missouri, and formerly of Homer, died Monday, January 20, 2014.
Mrs. Cooper was born August 21, 1946, in Detroit to Claude R. and Sophie (Kovacs) Craven. Joyce grew up in the Homer area, attending Homer Community Schools, and was a graduate of Homer High School, class of 1964.
In 1966, she married Darrel Cooper at the Homer United Methodist Church. The couple relocated to Chicago in 1972, where she went to work for the Crawford Department Store. During her employment there, she continued to advance her position in the company, reaching the positions of supervisor and then as corporate buyer for all Crawford stores. Her position took her to New York several times a year to meet with clothing wholesalers.
Joyce left the employment of Crawford in 1986. She soon opened her own business, Advertising Impression. Her company sold marketing and advertising materials and services to many Chicago companies. In 1999, she moved her business to the Lake of the Ozarks area in Missouri. Her company continued to grow, servicing her customers in the Chicago area as well as many new clients in Missouri. Over the last several years, Joyce slowed down her business operations.
While living in Camdenton, Missouri, she was as active member of the Chamber of Commerce, as well as other civic organizations. Joyce was an avid reader, and she loved bird watching. She had numerous bird feeders all around her home. She was well educated as to the many species of birds and enjoyed identifying the many different birds that visited her feeders.
She is survived by her two sons, Dennis (Dawn) Cooper of Crystal Lake, Florida, and David (Amy) Cooper of Nashville, Tennessee; four grandchildren, Lawrence, Rebecca, Kathleen and Jacob; brothers, Robert Craven of Homer and Charles Craven of Homer; numerous nieces and nephews; a very dear friend, Shirley Childers of the Lake of Ozarks area; and a special caregiver, Lora Morrow. Her parents; a grandson, Steven Cooper; and her sister, Shirley J. (Craven) Mees, preceded her in death.
The family received friends at the Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home January 31 from 4-8 p.m. A funeral service was held to celebrate the gift of her life the morning of Saturday, February 1, at the funeral home. Interment followed at the Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens in Battle Creek.
Friends who wish to make memorial contributions may do so to the American Lung Association. Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral home.
To leave a personal message and sign the online guest book, please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Kennith G. Walter
Kennith G. Walter, age 47 of Homer, passed away Wednesday, January 29, 2014, at his residence.
He was born August 9, 1966, to Donald and Carol (Prior) Walter in Marshall.
He married Tina Coburn August 8, 1992, who survives.
Kennith lived his entire life in Homer and Marshall. He was a 1985 Homer High School graduate. He was the owner and operator of Ken’s Carpet Installation for 30 years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing and, most of all, spending time with his family and friends.
Kennith is survived by his wife, Tina Coburn-Walter; daughter, Kaytlin; parents, Don and Carol Walter of Lewiston; a brother, Don Walter Jr. of Alabama; sisters, Nancy (Corby) Howk of Rice Creek and Amy Laupp of Marshall; and his dog, Jackie. He was preceded in death by his in-laws, Merlin and Florine Coburn.
Visitation for family and friends is scheduled for today (Wednesday) from noon until 2 p.m. at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion.
A memorial service will follow the visitation.
According to his wishes, cremation has taken place.
Memorial contributions may be made to Tina Walter in honor of Kaytlin Walter c/o J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home. (w/photo)
Mary C. Lewis
Mary C. Lewis of Homer died at Marshall Nursing and Rehab in Marshall where she has lived the last 4 years. She was surrounded by her loving family.
Mary was born July 5, 1925, to Myrtle (Foster) and William V. Schroll. She married Burdette G. Lewis November 9, 1946.
She treasured her family and grandchildren. Mary was a long time member of St. Joe Baptist Church in Homer where she often taught Sunday school.
Mrs. Lewis is survived by two sons, Terry (Carol) Lewis and Charles Lewis; and five daughters, Sandy (Troy Poe) Gillett, Sue (Bob) Sikora, Shirley (Mark) Rowbotham, Nancy (Craig) Waid and Melissa (Bob) Owens; 29 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; two sisters, Phyllis Jenkins and Wanda Lininger.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Burdette G. Lewis; three brothers, Gordon, William and Gerry; and a sister Joyce Nichols.
Visitation for family and friends will be Thursday, February 6, from 10 a.m. to noon at the First Baptist Church, 914 N. Main Street, Tekonsha.
A funeral will follow the visitation with Pastor Brian Perry officiating. Interment will be at West Eckford Cemetery, Eckford Township.
Assistance with memorial contributions may be made to Make A Wish Foundation, 2300 Genoa Business Park Drive, Brighton, MI 48114.
Arrangements entrusted to the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finely Drive, Albion.
Delores Bonogofsky
Delores Katherine Bonogofsky, 75, died Friday, January 31, 2014, in Pampa, Texas.
Liturgy of the Word will be celebrated at 2 p.m. Thursday, February 6, 2014, at Carmichael-Whatley Funeral Directors, with Rev. Francisco Perez, pastor of St. Vincent dePaul Catholic Church, officiating. Cremation and arrangements are under the direction of Car-michael-Whatley Funeral Directors.
Mrs. Bonogofsky was born October 13, 1938, in Solen, North Dakota. Delores had been a resident of Pampa since 2004, moving from Homer.
She married Tony Bonogofsky July 21, 1955, in Mandan, North Dakota. Delores was a Catholic and a homemaker. She loved and took pride in her children and grandchildren.
Delores was preceded in death by a daughter, Laura Bonogofsky, and one sister, Eleanor Kurtz.
Survivors include her husband, Tony; a daughter, Pam Reed and husband Roger of Pampa, Texas; three sons, Tyrone Bonogofsky and Linda Gallop of Ferndale, Florida, Mark Bonogofsky and wife Traci of Homer and Brian Bonogofsky and wife Annette of Martin; a sister, Leona MacDonald and husband John of Niagara, Wisconsin; two half-sisters, Vivian Holzer of North Dakota and Laura Markel of Texas; three half-brothers, Jr. Schantz, Irvin Schantz and Randy Schantz all of North Dakota; five grandchildren, Jaimie Peach and husband Te of Chester, Oklahoma, Travis Reed and wife Kristin of Odessa, Texas, Breanne Bonogofsky of Martin, Chad Bonogofsky of Homer and Eric Hackworth of Traverse City; three great-grandchildren, Maudie Peach and Quinn Peach both of Chester, Oklahoma, and Kingsley Reed of Odessa; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be made to the March of Dimes Foundation, Amarillo Chapter, 104 W. 6th Ave., Suite 301, Amarillo, TX 79101.
Sign the on-line guest register at www.carmichaelwhatley.com.
February 26, 2014
Jason Lee Lathrop
Jason Lee Lathrop, 40, of Homer, died Friday, February 14, 2014, at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor.
Jason was born October 11, 1973, in Albion, to John and Chris (Weiss) Lathrop. He graduated from Homer High School in 1992, and earned his associates degree from Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida.
Jason was a caregiver for his family, staying home and taking care of his grandmother. He also worked as a bartender in the area for several years. He enjoyed golf, baseball and music. He also enjoyed spending time with his family and many friends.
He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Chris and Phil Beal of Homer; father and stepmother, John and Barb Lathrop of Battle Creek; sister, Chelsea Lathrop of Battle Creek; brother and sister-in-law, Philip and Christina Beal of Napoleon; niece, Madalyn Beal; maternal grandmother, Peggy Weiss of Homer; aunts and uncles, Jerry Lathrop of Battle Creek, Paula and Donny Pittelkow of Homer, Sally Weiss of Kalamazoo, Helene and Bill Korinko of Waukesha, Wisconsin, and Barb Beal of Kalamazoo; several cousins; and his four-legged friend Bam Bam. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, John Lathrop; and maternal grandfather, Don Weiss.
A memorial service will take place Sunday from 1-4 p.m. at Cascarelli’s, 103 East Main Street in Homer. The family requests memorial contributions to be made to the Humane Society of South Central Michigan.
Assistance with memorials is available at the Kempf Funeral Home. Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guest book at www.kempffuneralhome.com.
March 5, 2014 - No obits
March 12, 2014 - No obits
March 19, 2014 - No obits
March 26, 2014
Nancy Finley Bigelow
Nancy Finley Bigelow, 81, of Valdosta, Georgia, died Monday, March 17, 2014, at South Georgia Medical Center.
She was born in Albion June 1, 1932, to the late Clarence and Alta Dailey Finley, and had lived in Valdosta since 1969. Mrs. Bigelow was a Presbyterian and a veteran of the United States Air Force (WAC), serving during the Korean Conflict. She enjoyed music, arts and crafts, baking and decorating cakes for family and friends, and participating in her children’s school activities. Mrs. Bigelow enjoyed attending her grandson’s sporting activities and accompanying her husband on his golfing activities.
Survivors include her husband, John A. Bigelow of Valdosta; her son and daughter-in-law, Paul A. and Kimberly Bigelow of Austin, Texas; her daughter, Denise Bigelow Girdler of Valdosta; her grandson, Aaron P. Girdler of Valdosta; her sister, Peggy Trall of California; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by three sisters, Hope Hepler, Phyllis Daniels and Arva Wallace, all of Michigan.
Funeral services were held Saturday, March 22, in the chapel of Carson McLane Funeral Home with the Rev. Bob Willis officiating. The family received friends following the service.
Burial with military honors will be held Thursday, March 27, at Quantico National Cemetery in Triangle, Virginia. Condolences to the family may be conveyed online at www.mclanecares.com. (w/photo)
Beverly Chamberlain Ekstrom
Beverly Chamberlain Ekstrom, 93, of Holmes Beach, Florida, passed away March 1, 2014.
She was a 30-resident of the Homer area, and taught in the local elementary school for many years.
She is survived by her daughter, Vera Morgan of Fayetteville, North Carolina; and sons, Peter Chamberlain of Watersplash, Nevada, and Dr. John Chamberlain of Gainesville, Florida. Mrs. Ekstrom is also survived by eight grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held in Florida, and her ashes will be scattered at sea, per her request.
April 2, 2014 - No Obits
April 9, 2014 - No Obits
April 16, 2014
Samuel J. Lopez
Samuel J. Lopez, 61, of Homer, passed away Friday, April 11, 2014, at Spectrum Butterworth Hospital with loved ones by his side.
Sam was born June 1, 1952, to Juan and Loretta (Lerma) Lopez in Harlingen, Texas. He attended school in Homer and graduated with the Class of 1970. Sam married the love of his life, Wanda Marie Murphy, June 8, 1979. Sam felt that the sun rose and set for Wanda, and he doted on her.
Sam was a maintenance mechanic by trade. He reluctantly retired from Metaldyne in Litchfield in 2012 as a result of his illnesses. Previous to working at Metaldyne, he worked for Hillsdale Tool for more than 20 years.
When Sam became ill two years ago, he was able to focus on his family, especially his grandchildren, who were very dear to his heart. Sam enjoyed close, special relationships with his children and grandchildren during this time, after moving in together under one roof, where he often cooked for the family. Chocolate chip cookies and homemade tortillas were his specialties.
Sam had many hobbies. He enjoyed golfing, working on cars, watching television (especially Chuck Norris and Star Trek!) and attending church at Maple Grove Bible Church of Marshall. One of the many characteristics about Sam that he is remembered for was his love for babies. Any baby and every baby! He was very playful with children and “Papi” loved to pick on and instigate his grandchildren. Sam is most remembered for being a quiet and gentle man. He was loyal and dedicated to his wife, children, grandchildren, family, friends and work.
He is survived by his wife, Wanda; children, Anne (Adam) Porter and Daniel Lopez of Homer; grandchildren, Dimitri Vargas, and Lucas and Eliana Porter; sisters, Aurora (Garland) Chapman of Litchfield, Dora (Valente) Villarreal of Lansing, Norma Wharff of Lansing, Bertha (Terry) Callaghan of Sun City Center, Florida; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Sam was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Sammy Lopez, whom he was named after.
A memorial service to celebrate Sam’s life will be held today (Wednesday) at noon at Maple Grove Bible Church, 18511 L Drive South, Marshall, with Pastor Bill Cole officiating. A luncheon for family and friends will follow at the church. The family requests for memorials in memory of Sam to be made out to his family to aid with expenses. Assistance with memorials is available at the Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home, 723 US 27 North, Marshall. To leave the family a personal message and sign the online guestbook, please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Cecil B. Hayes
Cecil B. Hayes, 78, of Homer, died Wednesday, April 9, 2014, at Select Specialty Hospital in Battle Creek.
Mr. Hayes was born August 22, 1935, in Eckford Township to Ira and Marie (Shaw) Hayes. He graduated from Marshall High School in 1953. He married Gladys Ann McKiver in 1953.
Mr. Hayes farmed in the Eckford area his whole life. He also worked as a machinist for the Eaton Company in Marshall for 39 years. Mr. Hayes enjoyed the outdoors, riding in his gator and working in his yard. He also enjoyed watching RFDTV, spending time with family and especially watching his grandchildren at their sporting events.
He is survived by his wife, Gladys of Homer; children, William B. (Teresa) Hayes of Homer and Susan A. (Bruce) Dolph of Marshall; grandchildren, Jennifer (Nate) Huff of Homer, Timothy Hayes of Bronson, Chelsea Hayes of Olivet and Samantha Dolph of Marshall; great-grandchildren, Ethan and Elijah Huff and Ella Wesner; a brother, Philip Hayes, of Marshall; sisters, Della Kane of Indiana and Shirley Schmitt of Manchester.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Fred Hayes.
A memorial gathering took place at the Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home Reception Hall, 723 US 27 North, Marshall, Saturday, April 12, 2014.
Memorial contributions in Cecil’s memory are requested to the Humane Society of South Central Michigan. Assistance with memorials is available at the Kempf Funeral Home.
Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guest book at www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
April 23, 2014
Susan Campbell
Susan (Blonde) Campbell, 65, of Litchfield, passed away Tuesday, April 15, 2014, at home.
She was born January 28, 1949, in Albion, to Charles and Doris (Pratt) Blonde and she survives in Litchfield. A 1967 graduate of Litchfield High School, Susan worked as a postal clerk at the Litchfield Post Office for many years, a waitress at Kasy’s in Litchfield and clerk at the Litchfield Shell Station. She enjoyed painting and loved flowers and gardening.
She married Jamie Campbell February 22, 1996, and he survives. In addition to her husband and mother, she is also survived by a daughter, Jackie (Roger) Spieth of Litchfield; a son, Steven (Lori) Denbrock of Litchfield; a stepdaughter, Dana Campbell of Jackson; a stepson, Damien Campbell of Grand Rapids; four brothers, Kenneth (Iris) Blonde of Jonesville, and Keith (Linda) Blonde, Karl Blonde and Bruce (Sandy) Blonde, all of Litchfield; six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her father.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 19, at the Litchfield United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Julie Yoder Elmore officiating. Interment followed in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Litchfield.
Visitation was Friday, April 18, at the Eagle Funeral Home-George White Chapel in Litchfield. Memorials are suggested to CHC Hospice.
To view this obituary and send condolences, visit www.eaglefuneralhomes.com.
Frances B. Costianes
Frances B. Costianes, 85, of Albion, died Saturday, April 5, 2014, at her home surrounded by her loving family.
She was born August 19, 1928, in Eckford Township, and was the daughter of Ivo E. Face and Marjorie Bentley Face. She married Nicholas P. Costianes, August 26, 1951.
Frances served 12 years as Albion’s 4th precinct city council member, eight of her 12 years as mayor pro-tem. In addition to being a full-time homemaker, she spent many years volunteering with the Camp Fire Girls and Boys organization; the Festival of the Forks, including the Greek food booth for 27 years; United Way; Albion Downtown, Inc.; Chamber of Commerce; Albion Civic Foundation Ball; North (Caldwell) Elementary School P.T.A.; South Albion 4-H Club; Albion High School band boosters; 13 years as Presbyterian church Sunday school teacher; a Red Cross four gallon blood drive donor; Calhoun County Alternatives Program; Albion Ambulance Sponsor-Member Committee; Albion Health Care Alliance Benefit Ball Committee; and served six times on jury duty.
She enjoyed cooking, golfing, dancing, playing cards and watching TV.
She is survived by her husband, Nicholas; daughters, Pauline (Lou) Aronica of Canton, Christine Costianes of Fishers, Indiana, and Kathleen Costianes of Seminole, Florida; sisters, Doris Bramble of Albion, Helen Banfield of Marshall; and brother, Russell Face of Marshall. She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers Donald and Neil Face.
A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, May 3, at 11 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 305 E. Porter Street, Albion. Cremation has taken place and interment will be in Fort Custer National Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Albion or Albion Elk’s Lodge #1798 or Marshall Oaklawn Hospice.
www.jktiddfuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
April 30, 2014 - No obits
May 7, 2014
Dennis “Eddie” Wolfe
Dennis Edward “Eddie” Wolfe, age 55, of Sterling Heights, passed away April 28.
Loving husband of Jill. Dear father of Ashley (Chris) Jasper, Danielle (Cord) Buoy, Daniel Davis, Kaelyn Davis, Danica Wolfe and Zoe Wolfe. Beloved grandfather of Christopher, Cheyenne, Conner and Charleigh Jasper and also of Wave and Odin Buoy.
He is survived by his parents, Edward and Bonnie Wolfe; and siblings, Stephen (Janice) Wolfe, Kenneth Wolfe and Teresa (Jim) Schell. He was predeceased by his sisters, Karen Wolfe and Gail Boehmer. He leaves many loving nieces and nephews.
Eddie attended high school at Homer H.S., and participated in team sports, including being part of a long-lasting record in the 880 yard relay. He received his bachelor’s degree from Oakland University and further pursued his masters at Wayne State University. Eddie taught chemistry, biology and physics at East Detroit High School, and also coached track.
Eddie enjoyed music, much more than a hobby. He was a successful musician and recording engineer in the greater Detroit area, and owned and operated Black Wolfe Records and Nectarine Studio.
Visitation was Wednesday, April 30, at S. K. Schultz Funeral Home in Eastpointe, with a funeral service that immediately followed.
A local graveside service for family and friends will be announced later this summer to take place at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
May 14, 2014 - No Obits
May 21, 2014
Alan W. Brockway
Alan W. Brockway, 77, of Homer passed away Saturday, May 17, 2014, with his family by his side.
Alan was born September 23, 1936, the son of Colon and Vera (Kelley) Brockway. He was a resident of Homer his entire life. He served in the United States Army between the years of 1959-1962, while being stationed in France. After marrying Mary Ray of Litchfield, they had a son, Wayne, along with a daughter Heather. They shared 51 wonderful years of marriage. Alan was a 42-year member of the local 333 Plumbers and Pipefitters Union, retiring in 1999. After retirement, Alan enjoyed steam engine shows, woodworking and metal working along with spending time with his family and traveling in his motor home.
Alan is survived by his wife, Mary; son, Wayne of Kalamazoo; and daughter, Heather of Burlington. Alan also leaves his grandchildren, Kyle Brockway of Tennessee, Amanda and Anthony Layne of Burlington; and his brother, Michael of Homer.
Alan was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Lynn; and sister, Suzanne.
Services were held Tuesday, May 20, at 1 p.m. at the J Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, with the Pastor Jerry Noseworthy officiating. Visitation was scheduled for one hour prior to the service from noon to 1 p.m. Interment was at the Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1400 West Milham Avenue, Portage, MI 49024.
www.jktiddfuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Peggy J. Drumm
Peggy J. Drumm, age 80, of rural Marshall, passed away and joined her beloved husband, Richard O. “Junior” Drumm, Saturday, May 17, 2014, at the home of her daughter Sandra K. Drumm in Marshall where she was being cared for by her loving family.
Peggy was born September 30, 1933, in Albion to Donald F. and Agnes (Creps) Heath. When Peggy was 6 years old, her family moved to their farm on H Drive South in Eckford Township. It was then Peggy first took her place in a pew at the United Methodist Church, now being the member with the most years attending there. The church was an important part of Peggy’s life. She played the organ for church service, taught Sunday School and was a member of the choir and church board for many years.
Peggy attended Bush School in Eckford Township until entering Marshall High School to complete her education. She was a member of the 1950 graduating class. While in high school, she met Richard O. “Junior” Drumm and they became sweethearts. They both were blessed to get to marry their high school sweetheart April 14, 1951. The couple enjoyed a loving, fruitful marriage of 53 years until Junior passed away May 4, 2004, at their home where Peggy cared faithfully for him during his final illness.
Peggy and Junior created a large and loving family. Their love and consideration for each other still shows in that family legacy. Peggy and Junior always kept their marriage alive and interesting with things like Peggy’s special goodbye to Junior when he’d join his friends at the Schaffer farm for morning coffee! They vacationed with their family at Mullett Lake through their lifetime together, creating great family memories of fishing, reading and relaxing. (Junior handled the fishing part!)
She took a job at the new State Farm Regional Office in Marshall after high school graduation. When Junior left to serve in the Korean War, she was pregnant with their first child. She left State Farm to concentrate on her family.
Later in life when the children were in school, she took a job in the office of A & C Carrier in Marshall. She then clerked for the Belcher’s at their auctions for 12 years.
Peggy is well-known for her love of antiques and her store in downtown Marshall that was a dream fulfilled for her. She named it “The Little Toy Drumm Antiques And Gifts” and it was next door to Herman’s Marshall Hardware. She opened it in 1985 and ran it until 2003. She still has a presence at the Town and Country Antique Mall in downtown Marshall with her collection of antiques and collectibles, where, until her illness, she enjoyed selling antiques and chatting with friends. She was a member of Marshall’s Antique Club.
She was the speaker at several teas at the National House Inn where she enjoyed speaking about and showing examples of her collections. Peggy was known as “The Turkey Lady” because of her vast collection of turkey post cards, plates and platters! Peggy loved going to auctions and estate sales where she found many of these treasures.
She was a supporter of the Calhoun County Fair, where she judged 4-H antique and art projects. Peggy served as treasurer of the committee that successfully relocated the Maple Grove Church to the fairgrounds.
Peggy loved music and taught it in country schools. She put on nice programs at the school for special occasions with the children as her performers. Her children particularly have fond memories of the different “assignments” they were given for the programs by their mother!
Peggy bowled in leagues at Marshall Lanes, where she was a member of the Marshall Women’s Bowling Association. She served as their secretary for many years.
Peggy leaves us her legacy, her loving and beloved family - daughter, Sandra K. Drumm of Marshall; sons, Donald R. (Robin) Drumm and Daniel P. (Lori) Drumm all of Homer; grandchildren, Nicole K. (Gil Talamantez Jr.) Wright, Robert D. (Kim Gordon) Brodock, Michael R. (Heather) Drumm, Amy J. (Dino) Pelham, Staci (Travis) Tackett, Justin D. (Sara) Drumm and Jordan D. (Stacey Sager) Drumm; 12 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; sister, Mary Standley of Brighton; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Friends may call at Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home, 723 US 27 N., Marshall, Tuesday where the family will be present from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. to greet friends and share memories.
Funeral services celebrating Peggy’s life and her Lord will be held today (Wednesday) at 11 a.m. at the funeral home, with the Rev. David Boedecker officiating. Interment will follow at Lyon Lake Cemetery.
The family suggests that friends who wish should make memorials to the Fountain Clinic or Oaklawn Hospice. Assistance is available at Kempf Funeral Home. To sign the online register book and leave a message for the family, visit www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
June 4, 2014
Gladys Mae Michael
Gladys Mae Michael, 100, of Hillsdale, passed away at her home Friday, May 30, 2014.
She was born in 1913 to George and Teena McAdam. She was married to Forrest Michael and Ulyss “Duly” McDowell, both of whom preceded her in death.
She resided in Homer most of her life, and she enjoyed her family, gardening and traveling.
Gladys is survived by one son, Dennis (Connie) McDowell; one daughter, Lorene Siegrist; two stepdaughters, Joyce (Donald) Frarey and Maudie (Tom) Evans; 11 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; and nine great-great-grandchildren.
Gladys was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Duly and Forrest; one son, Richard McDowell; two sisters, Wave Rice and Donna Chamberlain; three brothers, James, Robert and Arthur McAdam; one great-great-granddaughter, Angel Nichole Sparks; one son-in-law, Robert Siegrist; and one stepson, John Michael.
At her request, cremation has taken place and a private interment will take place in the Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
A memorial luncheon for family and friends will be held at the American Legion Post in Hillsdale Sunday from 1-4 p.m. Friends who wish may make memorial contributions to Great Lakes Hospice. Arrangements are entrusted to the Hampton-Kurtz Funeral Home in Hillsdale, 517-437-0605.
June 11, 2014
Kenneth Edward Cox
Kenneth Edward Cox, age 75, of Lake Alfred, Florida, passed away suddenly May 13, 2014.
Ken, Butch or Wally (as he was known to many) was born October 31, 1938, in Saginaw to Donald and Florence “Winnie” Cox.
Ken was raised in Marshall where he graduated from Marshall High School and enlisted in the United States Navy in 1956. Ken served in the Navy for 20 years before retiring and embarking on his second career with the State of Michigan Department of Corrections. While working for the state, Ken attended Jackson Community College, earning two associate degrees related to his work with the DOC. Ken’s last DOC placement was at the Florence Crane Correctional Facility in Coldwater where Ken retired in 1997.
Ken married Shirley (Watkins, Cox) Hendrick in 1958, and together they had five children, raising them in Homer. In 2000, Ken married Marjorie (Coleman, Stapley) Cox and Ken’s family grew larger to include five stepchildren. In 2004, Ken and Marge moved to Florida to live out their retirement years.
During this time, Ken served as president of the USS Arlington AGMR2 crew association and devoted much of his free time to organizing naval ship reunions, including the USS Coney and USS Arlington. In April of 2013, Ken was honored to be a part of the commissioning of the new USS Arlington where he was a platform guest and assisted in setting the first watch.
In addition to his devotion to the Navy, Ken was an avid Detroit Tiger’s baseball fan; he followed every season either watching games on TV or listening to them on the radio, and attended many games in person when possible. His love of baseball accompanied his lifelong hobby of collecting and trading baseball cards.
Ken was preceded in death by both his parents; infant daughter, Chryl; and several nieces and nephews. Ken is survived by his sister, Nancy (Bob) Ackerly of Winterville, Georgia; his brother, Donald (Rachel) Cox of Wingo, Kentucky; his sister, Pat (Bob) Bischoff of Marshall; and his sister Ruther Peters of Albion. Ken is survived by his children, Mike (Venisa) Cox of Winter Haven, Florida; Pam (Terry) Williams of Quincy; Sandy (Dan) Hammond of Battle Creek; and Michelle (Ken) Poe of Homer. Ken is survived by stepchildren Venisa (Stapley) Cox, Duane (Colleen) Stapley of Horton; Melissa Stapley of Coldwater; Dan (Amber) Stapley of Jackson; and Cecil (Christine) Stapley of Jackson. In addition, Ken is survived by his 20 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Per Ken’s wishes, a ceremony on the USS Arlington is being planned for later this summer off the coast of Virginia whereby Ken will be honored with a burial at sea. (w/photo)
June 18, 2014
Vera M. Davie
Vera M. Davie, 90, of Homer, died Wednesday, June 11, 2014, at Vista Grande Ville in Jackson after a short illness.
Vera was born May 18, 1924, in Homer, to Lawrence and Anna (Slechta) Mann. She attended Cook’s Prairie School through the 8th grade, then attended Homer High School, where she graduated from in 1942. She often recounted that she was a member of the last class to graduate from the old high school before it was destroyed by fire in 1943.
After high school, she entered the workforce. She worked in the offices at Randall’s Beans in Tekonsha, the Malleable in Albion, Pet Milk in Homer and the Homer Foundry. Her favorite job was her last, at the City Bank in Homer.
Vera was married to Robert N. Davie January 7, 1946, in Marengo. The couple farmed together on M-60 west of the village until he preceded her in death on November 16, 1994. The couple donated land from their farm to Homer VFW Post 9411 to build their building on, which has well served the community.
In 1995, Vera sold the farm and moved into Homer, where she lived until 2006. That year she moved to Leslie to be closer to her family. There she continued to enjoy the reading that had been such an enjoyable part of her life. She was joined by a stray cat that appeared at her door one day, and “Bobby” has been part of the family ever since!
Vera is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Janet and Don Vroman of Leslie; and her granddaughter Lisa Vroman. She was also preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Lawrence Keith Mann, who passed in 1987.
A graveside service at Fairview Cemetery will be announced in July. Arrangements are by Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel. A reception will follow the graveside at the Kempf Family Reception Hall at the funeral home at 303 South Hillsdale Street, Homer.
Friends who wish to remember Vera with a memorial may do so with a contribution to the Homer Area Community Foundation (to benefit Homer Community Schools). Assistance with memorials is available at Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel.
To leave a message for the family and sign the online guest register, please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com.
Betty Lou Sparks
Betty Lou Sparks, 73, of Homer, passed away Thursday, June 12, 2014, in the evening, at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo.
Betty was born April 21, 1941, in Allen, Kentucky, to Elzie and Trennie (Hall) Shepherd. She lived most of her life in Marshall and attended school there. On November 26, 1960, she married Albert Sparks in Marshall. He preceded her in death.
Betty was a homemaker and loved to take care of all of her family, especially her grandbabies! She enjoyed the family reunions, cooking for them and having impromptu cookouts and taco nights just to name a few! Betty liked to can and freeze food too. She also enjoyed cross stitching, being a part of Marshall TOPS (take off pounds sensibly) and bowling on a league at Marshall Lanes with several of her family members.
She is survived by her daughters, Dawn Sparks and Beth Gilbert of Homer; a son, Timothy (Lauren) Sparks of Connecticut; seven grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; sisters, Brenda (Dale) Schiesser of Marshall and Kathy Holtz of Indiana; a brother, James (Christine) Shepherd of Marshall; a brother-in-law, Alan Vandenburg; a sister-in-law, Margie Shepherd of Marshall; and best friends, Ruthie and Bob Mestdagh.
Betty was preceded in death by her husband; parents; brothers, Elzie Jr. and Johnnie; a sister, Carol Vandenburg; and mother-in-law, Jane Prater.
A visitation was held Monday, June 16, at the Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Home, Marshall Chapel, 723 US 27 North, Marshall. A funeral service was held Tuesday, June 17, at the Marshall Chapel with Chester “Chet” Prater officiating. Interment was held immediately following the service at Bentleys Corner Cemetery in Clarendon Township. A luncheon was held following the interment at the Presbyterian Church of Homer, 309 South Sophia, Homer.
Memorials in memory of Betty can be made out to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral home. To leave the family a personal message and sign the online guest book please visit kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
June 25, 2014 - No obits
July 2, 2014
Richard F. ‘Rick’ Van Eck
Richard F. “Rick” Van Eck, 60, of Albion passed away Sunday, June 29, 2014, at his residence.
According to his wishes, cremation has taken place and complete service arrangements will be announced later.
The family is being assisted with arrangements by Peaceful Journey Memorials, 412 South Superior Street, Albion.
Vera Davie
Vera Davie, 90, of Homer, died Wednesday, June 11, 2014, in Jackson.
A graveside service will be held Saturday, July 12, at 10 a.m. at Fairview Cemetery in Homer Township.
The funeral is being handled by Kempf Funeral Home, www.kempffuneralhome.com.
July 9, 2014
Carlen Sue Fincham
Carlen Sue Fincham, 57, of Homer, passed away Friday, July 4, 2014, at Eaton Palliative Community Care.
Carlen was born February 17, 1957, to Franklin and Josephine (Miller) Hoyt in Albion. She attended Homer schools and graduated with the Class of 1975. Carlen married Robert “Bob” Fincham at the Girard Church May 29, 1982.
Carlen worked at Hi-Lex in Litchfield for 12 years until an injury caused her to stop working. Previously, she worked on the family farm as well as at the Midwest Foundry in Coldwater.
She enjoyed the outdoors and being in the sunshine. Carlen liked to go camping, kayaking and fishing. She loved catching walleye and was known as the “Walleye Queen!” She also liked to visit lighthouses during her travels on Lake Michigan. Most of all, Carlen loved to be with her family and friends!
She is survived by her husband, Bob Fincham of Homer; mother, Josephine Hoyt of Homer; brother, Ben (Carol) Hoyt of Homer; sister, Debbie Betz of Homer; stepchildren, Wayne, Jody and Roxanne Fincham, all of Homer; nephew, Max Caldwell; nieces, Meagan Caldwell, Jacalyn and Logan Hoyt; and several aunts and uncles.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents; father, Franklin Hoyt; uncle, Charles Ray Miller; and her aunt, Kathleen Linton.
Visitation was scheduled for Tuesday, July 8, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, 303 South Hillsdale Street, Homer. The funeral service was to follow visitation, with The Rev. Earl Gear officiating. Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery.
Memorials in memory of Carlen can be made out to the Eaton Community Palliative Care. Assistance is available at the funeral home. To leave the family a personal message and sign the online guest book, please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com.
Doris Guenther
Doris Guenther, 95, died Sunday, June 29, 2014.
Doris was born October 5, 1919, and was preceded by her husband Frank Sr.
She is survived by a daughter, Janet Gallagher of Homer, and a son Frank (Linda) Guenther Jr. of Williamstown, New Jersey; five grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
Cremation has taken place just as she had wanted, with “no fuss or bother.” Doris lived a simple and very happy life.
Funeral arrangements were entrusted to J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion.
Dennis Edward “Eddie” Wolfe
Family and friends are invited to remember the life of Dennis Edward “Eddie” Wolfe at a graveside gathering at 6 p.m., Friday, July 11, 2014, at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
July 16, 2014
Richard “Rick” F. Van Eck
Richard F. “Rick” Van Eck, 60, of Albion, passed away in his home Sunday, June 29, 2014.
Rick was born October 19, 1953, in Albion, to Robert Eugene and DeLouise (Finnegan) Van Eck. He married Bobbie Jane Houghton June 30, 1984, in Chagrin Falls, Ohio. Together, they had two children, Eve and Michael, both of Albion.
Besides his wife Bobbie of Albion, he is survived by a daughter, Eve Van Eck of Albion; a son, Richard “Michael” Van Eck, living at home; his mother, DeLouise Van Eck of Portage; a sister, Carol (Jim) Ann Halfmann of St. Johns; and numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved very much. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert E. Van Eck; a brother, John Van Eck; and a sister, Teresa Bennett.
“Kids don’t remember what you try to teach them. They remember who you are.”- Jim Henson.
Second to the family he loved was Rick’s love of teaching and his commitment to his students. He taught for 31 years at Homer Community Schools, leaving a legacy through the students whose lives he touched, and the colleagues and friends who knew him. Rick loved the outdoors, and was an avid gardener, bird hunter and fisherman. He was also known for his baked goods, often surprising friends with his infamous tea rings and kringles.
According to Rick’s wishes, cremation has taken place and services are planned for Friday at St. John Catholic Church, 1020 Irwin Avenue, Albion, with visitation starting at 10 a.m. Rosary will be recited at 11:45 a.m., and a short funeral Mass will be held at 12:30 p.m., with the Rev. Fr. Joseph Gray officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to: The Kit Young Center, 1185 W. Parnall Road, Jackson, MI 49201.
The family is being assisted with arrangements by Peaceful Journey Memorials, 412 S. Superior Street, Albion, MI 49224. (w/photo)
Raymond J. Gooldy
SKEET, a Jackson County native and Florida retiree, passed away Thursday, July 10, 2014, at the age of 68. (Retired from Miller Brothers Mfg. - Homer, MI.)
He will be dearly missed by his family: daughter, two grandchildren, two sisters (preceded in death by one), brother, and dedicated partner, Rose.
Cremation services were done by Countryside Funeral Home of Anthony, Florida.
Memorial donations may go to ASPCA.org.
May the wings of eagles (or Harley’s) carry him to eternal rest (with a football stadium or race track close by). (w/photo)
July 23, 2014
Dewayne Gene Thomas
Dewayne Gene Thomas, 66, of Litchfield, passed away Saturday, July 19, 2014, at his home.
He was born April 21, 1948, in Quincy - the son of Max and Harriet (Leighner) Thomas. Dewayne graduated from Litchfield High School in 1966, and served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Era. He was a life member of the Albion VFW #3672 and was currently an active participant in the Litchfield Veterans Memorial project. He had been a member of the former I.O.O.F. Lodge in Litchfield and enjoyed gardening and sports.
Survivors include his daughter, Denise (Samuel) Porter and granddaughters, Kaitlyn and Cassidy Porter, all of Albion; and two brothers, Harry (Sandra) Thomas of Litchfield and Arthur (Kathy) Thomas of Homer.
He was preceded in death by his parents, son (Steven Thomas), two sisters (Donna Ruth and Rebecca Sue Thomas), and two brothers (Kenneth and Douglas Thomas).
Visitation was Tuesday from 10-11 a.m. at the Eagle Funeral Home-George White Chapel, Litchfield. Graveside services follow at noon at Mount Hope Cemetery, Litchfield.
Memorials are suggested to the Litchfield Veterans Memorial, c/o Hillsdale County Community Foundation, PO Box 435, Litchfield, MI 49252.
To view this obituary or send condolences, visit www.eaglefuneralhomes.com.
July 30, 2014
Dennis Craig Esterline
Dennis Craig Esterline, age 58, of Blissfield, and formerly of Homer, passed away Wednesday, July 23, 2014, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born September 16, 1955, to CD and Eleanor (Mahrle) Esterline in Marshall.
He was a 1973 graduate of Homer High School. He was a very proud employee of Enbridge Energy for the last 10 years, and he had worked his whole career in the pipeline industry.
He loved watching his son play football at Michigan, going up north, boating, fishing, hunting and working on his cars. His main love in life was spending time with his family.
Dennis is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Renee; four children, Asha (Justin) Wilson, Lexi Esterline, Ari Esterline and Dylan Craig Esterline; a grandson, Wyatt Wilson; his mother, Eleanor Esterline; two brothers, Darrell (Sharon) Esterline of Kalamazoo and Donald (Nancy) Esterline of Marshall; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, and several aunts and uncles.
Visitation for family and friends was held Saturday, July 26, at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home. A funeral service was held Sunday, July 27, at the funeral home.
Family requests casual attire for all who attend visitation or the service. (w/photo)
Melvin K. Hakes
Melvin K. Hakes, 89, of Homer, died Friday, July 25, 2014.
He was born December 1, 1924, in Albion, to William and Ethel Hakes. He married Betty A. (Hickerson) Hakes August 11, 1951, in Homer.
Melvin attended Homer High School. He was a World War II veteran, serving in the United States Navy from October 1942 until he was honorably discharged in February 1946. He was trained at Jim Miller’s machine shop and retired from Eaton Corp. in Marshall in 1987. He was also a volunteer fireman, an avid hunter and fisherman, an accomplished golfer, and enjoyed gardening.
Melvin was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Richard; and sisters, Mildred, Linda, Pauline and Nancy.
He is survived by his wife; brother, Paul; daughters, Dianna (William) Porter and Pamela Thomas; grandchildren, Julia (Kyle Wurtzel) Porter, Jennifer (Adam) Tilley, Jackie Porter, Dustin Thomas, Sarah Thomas and Natasha Summerfield; a great-granddaughter, Linley; and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation took place at the Craig Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, 303 South Hillsdale, Homer, Sunday, July 27, from 3-5 p.m. A memorial service took place Monday, July 28, at the Craig Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel at 11 a.m., with the Rev. Timothy Marvil officiating.
A luncheon followed at the First Presbyterian Church of Homer. A private interment took place at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions are requested to the Kathy Hickerson-Mills Scholarship Fund. Assistance with memorials is available at the Craig Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, 303 South Hillsdale Street, Homer.
Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guest book at www.kempffuneralhome.com.
Marlin A. Dow
Marlin A. “Red” Dow, 77, of Litchfield, passed away Sunday, July 27, 2014, at home.
He was born September 7, 1936, in Hillsdale, to Owen and Vera Bell (Schultz) Dow. He graduated from Hillsdale High School in 1955 and attended Hillsdale College. Red served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict and retired from Albion Malleable Iron Foundry.
Survivors include his wife, Cindy (Buchin) Dow, whom he married February 14, 2002; two daughters, Kelly Cattaneo of Orlando, Florida, and Nichole (Chris) Isaac of Jonesville; two sons, Bradley (Sandy) Dow of Litchfield and Matt (Mandi) Kurpenski of Rives Junction; a brother, Alger (Ann) Dow of Bridgman; grandchildren, Joshua (Courtnee) Dow, Zachary Dow, Max Helm, Tayler Dow, Kalyssa Taylor, Korbin and Kaleb Grider, and Karter Isaac; and four great-grandchildren, Kylee Holbrook, Austyn Dow, Izabella Dow and Audreeona Dow.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, Duane and Wendall Dow.
Visitation is scheduled for today (Wednesday) from 5-8 p.m. at the Eagle Funeral Home-George White Chapel, Litchfield. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home Thursday at noon, with Pastor Daniel Buchin officiating. Cremation will follow. Memorials are suggested to the American Heart Association.
Mr. Dow’s family would like to extend sincere thanks to their loving and supportive neighbors who helped greatly.
To view this obituary or send condolences, visit www.eaglefuneralhomes.com. (w/photo)
August 6, 2014
Hargis Back
Hargis Back, age 72, of Eckford, passed away Sunday, July 27, 2014, at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo surrounded by his family.
He was born June 15, 1942, to Cletis and Ethel (Williams) Back in Big Woods, Kentucky. On June 3, 1963, he married Dixie Coburn whom he loved for 51 years.
He loved old westerns, the outdoors, fishing, deer hunting, and spoiling his dogs and grandchildren.
Hargis is survived by his wife of 51 years, Dixie Back; children, David Back, Carl (Julie) Back, Penny (Jimmy) Johnson and Berl (Amy) Back; 13 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; brothers Manford Back, Kelly Back and David (Marilyn) Back; and his beloved boxer, Joey.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Juanita, Vernie and Faye; and his granddog, Zeus.
Visitation for family and friends was Thursday, July 31, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home. A funeral service followed the visitation. Pastor Ralph McCarty officiated. Interment was held at East Eckford Cemetery in Eckford Township.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family for future discretion.
www.jktiddfuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
James F. Reichow
James F. Reichow, 88, of Albion, passed away Wednesday, July 30, 2014, at the Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice Residence in Battle Creek.
James was born April 27, 1926, at home in Albion to Charles A. and Clara (Cuatt) Reichow. He attended Albion schools and graduated with the Class of 1944. James attended the Agricultural Short Course at Michigan State University after graduating from high school. He met Margaret Jean Bayn and they were married April 15, 1950, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Albion. They had four children together and celebrated 64 years together this year!
James farmed on his family farm all of his life as well as on land of several neighbors. Some of these areas included Jackson County and Concord Township. He retired in 2006, but continued to help out on the farm doing what he loved to do.
James was very involved in his community. He was a member and deacon of the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Albion as well as their Friendship League. He was also a member of Farm Bureau, Progressive Farmers, South Albion Community Club, 4-H, and he was on the school board for the one-room schoolhouse where three of his kids attended and on the Albion Township board for several years.
James and Jean liked to play cards with their friends. One of his favorite games was Pedro. They also loved to travel together. Over the years, they took road trips to various areas. After their daughter Elaine moved to Seattle, that became their destination, and they would drive a different route each time to explore new areas!
He is survived by his wife, Jean Reichow of Albion; sons, Fred (Deb) Reichow of Homer and Doug (Pam) Reichow of Albion; daughters, Elaine Ervin and Dave Campbell of Seattle and Linda (Greg) Hicks of Rockford; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and several nieces and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Leona Bormann.
Visitation was Friday, August 1, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, 303 S. Hillsdale Street, Homer.
A funeral service took place Saturday, August 2, at 11 a.m. at the Homer Chapel, with Pastor Dennis Matyas of St. Paul Lutheran Church of Albion officiating the service.
Interment followed the service at Riverside Cemetery of Albion. A luncheon was held following the burial at the St. Paul Lutheran Church of Albion, 100 Luther Blvd., Albion.
Memorials in memory of James can be made out to the St. Paul Lutheran Church or Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice Residence.
Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral homes. To leave the family a personal message and sign the guest book, please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
August 20, 2014
Mazie Foltz
Mazie Foltz, age 73, of Phoenix, Arizona, and formerly of Homer, passed away Sunday, July 20, with her children by her side.
She was born in Kentucky and moved to Homer at the age of 17, where she met and married Thomas Foltz. She worked and retired from Manchester Plastics/Collins & Aikman after 26 years.
She enjoyed spending time with her children, gardening, trips to Laughlin and weekly bingo sessions. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas, and is survived by her two children, Mike (Cheryl) Foltz and Debbie (Butch) Eldred. (w/photo)
Theresa Idell Woods
Theresa Idell Woods, 44, of Homer, became an angel to watch over her family and friends August 11, 2014, after a short but courageous fight with cancer.
Theresa was a 1988 graduate of Homer High School. She worked as a clerical associate at A & J North Butler Store for several years, being a loving mother to her children, Mary, Daniel and Kevin, and loving fiancée to Kevin Thacker, the love of her life.
Theresa loved going to garage sales; riding four wheelers in the mountains of Kentucky; watching her kids play football, basketball and ride their four wheelers. Soaking up the sun by the pool, canning her garden bounty, visiting with her family and taking care of her dogs were the small things in life that made her happy.
Born October 26, 1969, in Albion, to Daniel Woods (Hyden, Kentucky, formerly of Homer) and Mary Woods (Hazard, Kentucky and Homer). Her father survives her.
She leaves behind her fiancée, Kevin Thacker Sr.; her daughter, Mary Cronkite; and two sons, Daniel Cole and Kevin Thacker Jr.; a stepson, Dominick Frazier; along with a sister, Cindy (Ron) Fredericks of Englewood, Ohio; two brothers, James Gibson of Coldwater and Sherman Woods of Homer; as well as many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends to mourn her loss.
Visitation for family and friends was held Thursday, August 14, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, MI, 49224.
A funeral service was held Friday, August 15, at 11 a.m. with visitation at 10 a.m., prior to the service, with Pastor Allen Henson officiating. (w/photo)
August 27, 2014
Charles Franklin McDaniels
Charles Franklin McDaniels, 45, of Battle Creek, died August 23, 2014, after a long battle with cancer.
Charlie was born November 1, 1968, the son of Charles Franklin (Pete) and Charlene Phyllis (Tackett) McDaniels of Homer.
Charles graduated from Homer High School, Kellogg Community College and Nuipe School of Steam Plant Operations.
He was employed by Graphic Packaging of Battle Creek. He also worked at American Axle and Harvard Industries.
Charlie was an avid fisherman and hunter. He enjoyed bowling and spending time with his family and friends.
Charlie was married to Lori Ann Steffka White. She survives.
He leaves behind a son, Jeffrey Charles McDaniels; a daughter, Heather Marie McDaniels of Battle Creek; his father, Charles Franklin (Pete); his stepmother, Ivoleve Joyce McDaniels, of Homer; stepchildren, Merissa and Chris White, and a step granddaughter, Marcella Clemons, all of Battle Creek; sisters, Patricia (Wayne) Martin of Albion and Melinda (Brian) O’Connor of New Paris, Indiana; a stepbrother, Timmy Ray Robinson; stepsisters Dewanna (Bill) Rogers and Amanda (Leonard) Roberts, all of Pikeville, Kentucky; special friend and cousin Tonya Keifer of Homer, along with nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends.
Charlie was preceded in death by his mother Charlene Phyllis McDaniels; grandparents, Charlie and Ora (Golden) McDaniels, and Columbus and Lillie (Little) Tackett.
Visitation took place at the Homer Chapel of Craig Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, Tuesday, August 26, from 2-8 p.m., with family present to greet friends from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.
Funeral services celebrating his life will take place at noon on today (Wednesday, August 27) at the funeral home, with Pastor Earl Martin officiating.
Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Family will gather with friends following the committal services at the Craig Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel reception hall.
Memorial contributions are requested to the family, with checks payable to Lori McDaniels. Assistance with memorials is available at the Kempf Funeral Home.
Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guest book at www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
September 3, 2014 - No obits
September 10, 2014 - No obits
September 17, 2014 - No obits
September 24, 2014
Wayman L. Rossman
Wayman L. Rossman passed away August 28, 2014, after a valiant battle with cancer.
This was a man raised a farmer, put himself through college, created a successful company and was a good father and husband who always stayed true to his roots.
He was born September 18, 1921, in Litchfield, the son of Rex and Mabel Rossman. He grew up on a dairy farm, which instilled a strong work ethic along with a love of the land and outdoors that stayed with him his entire life.
He graduated from Michigan Technological University in 1946 and began a long and successful career as a civil engineer. He wed Donna Jean Gallant in 1952 and they spent most of their lives in Saginaw. They were married for 47 years and had four children. Wayman built Michigan Gypsum Company from scratch for Sargent Sand Company, and the mine never had an unprofitable year under his leadership.
He enjoyed hunting and fishing, gardening, including growing beautiful roses, dancing, golf, cards and was a life master at bridge. Wayman led his children by example, such as the importance of giving your best effort for a day’s wage and that your word is your bond.
He was preceded in death by his parents; nine siblings; wife, Jean; and daughters, Jill and Bethany Rossman. He is survived by his wife of the past 10 years, Margaret Rossman, whose love and companionship made Wayman very happy. He also is survived by his son, Bruce Rossman and beloved daughter-in-law, Linda; son, Rex Rossman; grandchildren, Peter, Sam (Heather) and Molly Rossman; and many nieces and nephews.
Friends and family will gather at Litchfield Greens in Litchfield, Saturday, September 27, for a celebration of Wayman’s life.
An hour of socializing begins at 11 a.m., followed by lunch and a time of sharing memories and tributes. (w/photo)
C.J. “Doc” Howe, Jr.
Dr. C. J. “Doc” Howe, Jr. of Homer, formerly of Hillsdale, passed away Saturday, September 20, 2014, to his eternal home in Heaven in the arms of his loving wife, Connie, just like he wished. He is with his Savior now, free of pain.
He was born August 4, 1926, in Hillsdale, the son of Chauncey J. and Wilma Irene (Grant) Howe.
He is survived by his loving and caring wife of 26 years, Connie Howe, whom he married on September 17, 1988; one daughter, Cynthia (Roy) Meyer of Indiana; granddaughters, Jennifer (David) Danic, Stephanie (Ashley) Swanson and Ashley (Jordan) Eldridge all of Indiana; great-grandchildren, Jude and Shepard Swanson, Jesse Danic and Kenzie Eldridge, all of Indiana; stepdaughters, Dawn (Rob) Green of Homer, Laurie (Randy) Nevins of Concord and Lynette Carr of Homer; stepgrandchildren, Ryan Nevins (fiance’ Brittany Mosher), Donovan Green, Mackenzie Green, Karley Nevins, Marissa Green, and Aubrey and Avery Carr; his father-in-law, Richard Ackerman of Hanover; and two sisters-in-law, Colette (Butch) Lyons of Horton and Annette (Denny) Wellman of Parma. He was preceded in death by his parents; one infant sister, Phyllis Jean Howe; one son, Conrad Jeffrey Howe; and his mother-in-law, Barbara Ackerman.
Doc Howe will sadly be missed by his four-legged friends, “Ginger” and “Spinx”
The family wishes to thank the Oncology Department of Allegiance Health, Doctors Clark, Axelson and Trimble after being a patient for 29 years, they were like family. Thank you to the RNs and the staff there for their care and friendship. He looked forward to going there to see everyone. Thank you to Dr. Aaron VanWagnen and his nurse, Beth Miller, for their care and friendship, and thank you to his most recent hospice nurse, Lisa. The family wishes to express a special thank you to Fred King, Tom Norris and Tracey Faurot who assisted not only as caregivers to Doc, but friendships to Doc which he thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated.
Dr. Howe attended Hillsdale College for pre-optometry and graduated from Northern Illinois College of Optometry in Chicago, with a doctor degree February 4, 1949. He was a member of the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity at Hillsdale College and a member of Omega Delta Professional Optometric Fraternity in Chicago.
Dr. Howe practiced “Professional Optometry” in Hillsdale for 33 years and in Homer for 17 years until his retirement in 1999, thus completing 50 years of practice. After retiring from optometry, he enjoyed being the daycare assistant at his wife, Connie’s, daycare. He was a life member of the Michigan Optometric Association and the American Optometric Association, a former member of the Homer Lions Club and a member of Anchor Baptist Church in Homer.
A funeral service to honor the life of Dr. C. J. “Doc” Howe, Jr. will be held at the Hampton-Kurtz Funeral Home in Hillsdale Thursday, September 25, beginning at 1 p.m., with Pastor Brian Walker and Pastor Robert Marston officiating. Interment will take place in the Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
The family will receive friends for visitation Wednesday from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home in Hillsdale.
Friends who wish may make memorial contributions to Anchor Baptist Church, Homer Firemen’s Association or to RBM Ministries Branch and Calhoun Counties c/o Al and Chris Ross. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Please visit hamptonkurtzfuneralhomes.com to sign the guest book and/or send a condolence to the family.
Hampton-Kurtz Funeral Home, 3380 W. Carleton Road, Hillsdale, MI, 49242. Please call, 517-437-0605.
October 1, 2014
Dennis M. Brigham
Dennis M. Brigham, 66, entered into Heaven August 21, 2014. He passed peacefully with loved ones by his side.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Dowayne J. Brigham and Dona Mae Brigham (Gilmore). He is survived by his brothers, Don and David Brigham; sister, Dona Michelle Hetherwick (Brigham); along with many family and friends.
Cremation services have taken place and burial will be at the convenience of the family.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. October 11 at the Big 9 Sportsman Club, 12000 Folks Road, Concord, MI 49237.
Eagle Funeral Home-George White Chapel, Litchfield.
To view this obituary or send condolences, visit www.eaglefuneralhomes.com.
Sharon Earl Booth
Sharon was born April 23, 1933, at the Booth homesteaded farm in Homer. Sharon was one of the first deliveries made by Dr. R. K. Curry. His parents were Norman and Berniece Booth.
He is survived by his son, Earl of Jackson; brother Jerry and his wife, Susan, of The Villages, Florida; three grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.
Sharon’s death came September 25, 2014, after four bouts with colon cancer over four years. He was predeceased by his wife of 55 years, Marilyn; two sons, Douglas and Leonard; and his sister, Nancy Lowder.
Sharon graduated from Homer in 1950 and attended college in Minnesota. He was employed with Clark Equipment for over 35 years. A special tribute goes to Jeannie Dowding, his companion and caregiver for the past two years.
A memorial service will be held at the Masonic Temple in Homer at 1p.m. Friday.
In lieu of flowers, Sharon requested that memorials/donations be given to the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Sharon’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.michigancremation.com. 616-452-3006.
Edward Walter “Walt” Keller
Edward Walter “Walt” Keller Jr., age 57, of Marshall and formerly of the Homer area, died unexpectedly Thursday, September 18, 2014, at his home.
Mr. Keller was born April 8, 1957, in Kalamazoo to Edward W. and Barbara (Lubic) Keller Sr.
He was a graduate of Homer High School and continued his education attending classes at Kellogg Community College. He had been employed by Tenneco in Litchfield for over 24 years. He retired early due to a disability. Walt served in the Army National Guard in Albion for over 22 years. He was called into active duty and served a tour in Honduras.
Walt enjoyed gambling and going to the area casinos. He also collected baseball cards and was a strong supporter of Josh Collmenter and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Walt was an avid bowler and had bowled in several leagues at the L & J Lanes. His friends at the bowling lanes affectionately called him “Dog.”
He is survived by a sister, Arlene Kay Coburn of Homer; his father, Edward W. Keller Sr. of Burlington; special adopted son, Steve (Melissa Craven) Martinez of Homer; grandchildren, Haley, Adalyn and Matthew Martinez; and eight nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Keller; and a brother, Kim Keller-Lubic.
The family received friends Thursday, September 25, at the Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, 303 S. Hillsdale Street, Homer from 2-4 p.m. A funeral service followed at 4 p.m. at the funeral home.
Friends who wish may make memorial contributions to the Walt Keller Memorial Fund to assist with funeral expenses. Checks should be made payable to Steve Martinez. Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral home.
To leave a personal message and sign the online guest book, please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com.
October 8, 2014
Henry Vest
Henry Vest went to be with the Lord Sunday, September 28, 2014.
He was a man of God, loving father and grandfather, Army veteran and a Red Cross Clown.
He was preceded in death by wife, Mary; is survived by his mother, Mable Otto; seven siblings; children, Donna, Daniel and James; and grandchildren. You will be missed.
Visitation for family and friends was held Wednesday, October 1, from noon to 1 p.m. at the Christ Apostolic Church, 503 N. Superior Street, Albion.
Funeral Service was held Wednesday, October 1, at 1 p.m. at the church, with Pastor David Trammel officiating.
Interment was at Albion Memory Gardens.
Arrangements are entrusted to J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, MI. www.jkevintiddfuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Keith M. Klingaman
Keith M. Klingaman, 84, of Homer, died Sunday, September 28, 2014, peacefully at his home.
Mr. Klingaman was born December 18, 1929, in Tekonsha to Myrl and Helen (Warrington) Klingaman. He graduated from Tekonsha High School in 1947.
He was drafted in the US army during the Korean Conflict and was honorably discharged in 1954. He married Mary Lou Evy October 23, 1951. She preceded him in death in September 1997. In 2002, he married Rebecca Hoaglin, and she preceded him in death in 2011.
Mr. Klingaman was an electrical contractor, starting Klingaman Electric in 1963, and later would buy Albion Electric in 1979 with his son John, and he retired in 2000. He also farmed in the Homer area the majority of his life.
Keith was an avid outdoorsman enjoying hunting, fishing, camping and riding his four-wheeler. He especially enjoyed his hunting trips out west, camping in Alaska and spending time with his children and grandchildren.
He is survived by his children, Judy (Jim) Peters of Sparta, Tennessee, Lois (Bill) Barnes of Monroe, Pam Klingaman of Milford and John (Sheila) Klingaman of Marshall; five grandchildren, Luke McColgan, Brian (Samantha) Barnes, Renee (Trent) Doren, Tyler Klingaman, and Derek (Chloe) Klingaman; and 14 great-grandchildren and one on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents; wives; two grandchildren, Marty and Melissa Isaac; and a sister, Mary Tanner.
Visitation was held at the Craig Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, 303 South Hillsdale Street, Homer, Wednesday, October 1, from 2-8 p.m., with family present to greet friends from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.
Funeral services celebrating his life took place at 11 a.m. Thursday, October 2, at the Craig Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, with the Rev. James Codde officiating. Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery with military honors.
Family gathered with friends following the committal services at the Kempf Funeral Home Reception Hall, Homer Chapel.
Friends who wish to make a memorial contribution in Keith’s memory may do so to the Homer VFW or to the Homer Community Foundation. Assistance with memorials is available at the Kempf Funeral Home, Homer Chapel. Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guest book at kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Millard Lee Dillion
Millard Lee Dillion, 58, of Homer, died Thursday, October 2, 2014, at Allegiance Health System in Jackson.
Millard was born October 28, 1955, in Marshall, to Charles and Zellaree (Sparks) Dillion. He graduated from Homer High School in 1973.
Millard worked for Thorez Company in Jackson for 23 years. He retired in 2002. After his retirement, he worked for Nagels Meats in Homer for the past several years. Millard enjoyed gardening, canning, cooking, playing bass guitar and riding his motorcycle.
He is survived by his children, Jennifer Dillion and Jason Dillion, both of Homer; two grandchildren, Alyssa and Gaige Keller both of Homer; siblings, Evelyn Dillion-Raza, Ronnie (Ilene) Dillion, Charlie Dillion and Rickie Dillion. He was preceded in death by his parents; and sisters, Donna Spencer and Charity French.
A memorial service will take place at 3 p.m. Sunday, October 12, at the Homer VFW Hall 23672 West M-60, Homer.
Memorial contributions are requested to the family. Assistance with memorials is available at the Craig Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, 303 South Hillsdale Street, Homer. Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guest book at www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
John Henry Carr
John Henry Carr Jr., of Homer, went to be with the Lord October 1, 2014.
John was born January 3, 1935, in Allen, Kentucky. John was preceded in death by his parents, John Henry Carr and Lucinda Carr Bentley also from Kentucky. John had four brothers, Kit Carr, Vernard Carr, Joe Carr and Charles Carr; and five sisters, Peggy Kilgore, Maggie Leonard, Elizabeth George, Nova Mulkey and Mary Ellen.
John met and married his lifelong sweetheart and soul mate, Ada Sue Roberts from Pikesville, Kentucky, in October 1953. Their 61-year union blessed them with four daughters, Brenda (Ray) Wirebaugh of Homer, Wanda (William) Weston of Horton, Rose (Chris) Bouldney of Concord and Melissa (Dave) Marshall of Homer.
In addition, John and Sue have 10 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by siblings, Vernard Carr, Charles Carr, Peggy Kilgore and Elizabeth George; sisters-in-law, Betty Brown and Kay Johnson; and a special niece Geraldine Caddock.
John loved the outdoors and took extreme pride in his garden. His hobbies included watching the Detroit Tigers, attending flea markets, traveling and spending time with his family.
John had been employed by the Union Steel Products Company in Albion for 33 years. He retired in 1995. John and Sue have made Homer “home” for 25 years.
A funeral service to celebrate the gift of his life was held at 1 p.m. Monday, October 6, at the Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, with Pastor Jimmy Collins officiating. Interment followed at the Spring Arbor Cemetery.
A luncheon was held following the committal service at Riverside Baptist Church, Homer. Serving as pallbearers were Travis Penza, Chris Bouldrey, Bill Weston, Dave Marshall, Charlie Fisher, Ray Wirebaugh and Jeremiah Judd.
Friends who wish may make memorial contributions to the Great Lakes Hospice. Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral home.
To leave a personal message and sign the online guest book, please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
October 15, 2014
Harold D. Elston
Harold D. Elston, age 87, of Eckford and Homer area, passed away Wednesday, October 8, 2014, at Marshall Nursing & Rehab.
He was born February 26, 1927, in Pleasant Lake, Indiana, to George F. and Elva E. (Timmons) Elston. He married Doris L. Koons August 20, 1949, who preceded him in death July 27, 2014.
He was employed with Willow Run School District for 30 years where he retired as a teacher’s assistant. He served in the U.S. Army from 1952-1954, and was a member of the American Legion in Marshall.
Harold is survived by sons, Kevin (Valerie) Elston of Raleigh, North Carolina, and Erik (Jessica) Elston of Albion; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Doris.
Visitation for family and friends will be held Thursday, October 16, from 5-8 p.m. at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, Michigan 49224.
A funeral service will be held Friday, October 17, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home, with Pastor Mike Peters officiating. Interment will follow at West Eckford Cemetery, Eckford Township.
Memorial contributions can be made to West Eckford Missionary Church, 19697 F Drive, Marshall, MI 49068.
www.jkevintiddfuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Betty Ann Hakes
Betty Ann Hakes, 87, of Homer, died Friday, October 10, 2014.
She was born September 30, 1927, in Albion, to Leila Pearl Evans and John Hickerson. She married Melvin K. Hakes on August 11, 1951. He preceded her in death Friday, July 25, 2014.
Betty was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Homer. She enjoyed spending time with family, including her daughters and their families.
She worked hard her whole life to put others first. Her excellent cooking will be missed by all.
She graduated from Homer High School in 1945, and worked at State Farm Insurance in Marshall, retiring in 1988. She was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the First Presbyterian Etta Prentiss Circle.
She was preceded in death by her husband; siblings, Archie Hickerson, Jack Hickerson, Charles (Bill) Hickerson, Dorothy (Dot) Clark and Barbara Dubert; stepfather, Herb Evans; and a niece, Kathy A. Mills.
She is survived by her daughters, Dianna Porter (William) and Pamela Thomas; grandchildren, Julia (Kyle Wurtzel) Porter, Jennifer (Adam) Tilley, Jackie Porter, Dustin Thomas, Sara Thomas and Natasha Summerfield; great-granddaughter, Linley; and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, October 16, at Craig Kempf Funeral Home, Homer Chapel, 303 S. Hillsdale Street, Homer.
A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. Friday, October 17, at the funeral home. A luncheon will follow at the First Presbyterian Church of Homer.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Kathy Hickerson-Mills Memorial Scholarship Fund through the Homer High School Alumni Association.
October 22, 2014
Virginia A. Sweet
Virginia A. Sweet, age 88, of Bonita Springs, Florida, and formerly of Marshall, died Friday, October 10, 2014, at Kiva at Canterbury Assisted Living.
Mrs. Sweet was born April 16, 1926, in Nashville to Lee A. and Gertrude L. (Thorstinson) Clutter. She was a homemaker.
A marriage to William “Bill” Holden ended in divorce. She married Cecil L. Sweet January 25, 1957. He preceded her in death May 8, 1997.
Virginia was a former member of the Marshall Moose Lodge #676, the Michigan Milk Producers Association and the Michigan Harness Horse Association. She is remembered by her family as a hardworking farmer’s wife, and was a loving mother and grandmother.
She is survived by daughters, Lucretia (Walter) Adams of Litchfield, Rose Marie Huckfeldt of Homer, Beverly (Clarence) Hammel of Coldwater, Shirley (Glenn) Brail of Marshall, Barbara (John) Townsend of Bellevue and Sandra Kelly of Battle Creek; sons, Edwin T. Holden of Quincy, James (Carol) Sweet of Zephyrhills, Florida, Douglas L. (Anna) Sweet of Bonita Springs; 16 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by sisters, Lela Thorn and Madeline Dubois; brothers, Paul Clutter, Stanley Clutter, Clyde Clutter, Leroy Clutter and Karl Clutter; three grandsons; a granddaughter; a great-great-grandson; and a son-in-law.
The family will receive friends Friday, October 24, from 6-8 p.m. at the Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, 723 Old US Hwy 27 North, Marshall.
A funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, October 25 at the funeral home, with the Rev. Brandon Crawford officiating. Interment will follow in Bentley Corners Cemetery, Clarendon Township, Homer.
Friends who wish may make memorial contributions to the Vitas Community Connections, 4980 Tamiami Trail N., Naples, FL 34108.
Assistance with memorials is available at the Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes.
To leave a personal message and sign the online guest book, please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
October 29, 2014 - No obits
November 5, 2014 - No obits
November 12, 2014 - No obits
November 19, 2014
Mary Lee Ziegler
Mary Lee Ziegler, 65, of Litchfield, passed away at home Saturday, November 15, 2014.
She was born February 25, 1949, in Albion, to Vernon and Mae (Oestrike) Ziegler. Mary Lee graduated in 1967 from Litchfield High School and from Central Michigan University. She became a paralegal and worked for Glen Ziegler Attorney at Law.
She was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Hillsdale. Mary Lee devoted her life to others and loved spending time with her family, reading and working jigsaw puzzles.
Survivors include two sisters, Carol Sue (George) Hawkes; and Patricia Lee Ziegler, both of Litchfield; two brothers, Gary R. Ziegler of Litchfield and Glen Ziegler of Hillsdale.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Kurt; and a nephew, Derick.
Visitation is scheduled for Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. at the Eagle Funeral Home - George White Chapel, Litchfield, and Thursday from 10-11 a.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, in Hillsdale.
Funeral services will be held Thursday at 11 a.m. at the church, with the Rev. Dan Johnson officiating.
Interment will follow in St. Paul’s Cemetery in Hillsdale.
Memorials are suggested to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.
To view this obituary or send condolences, visit www.eaglefuneralhomes.com.
November 26, 2014 - No obits
December 3, 2014
Ezra Shepherd
Ezra Shepherd, 74, of Litchfield, died November 19, 2014, at his home.
Mr. Shepherd was born June 12, 1940, in Floyd County, Kentucky, to Joe and Mary Jane (Reffitt) Shepherd. He married Magdalene Ratliff in Kentucky December 23, 1959. Their marriage ended in divorce.
Mr. Shepherd worked as a coal miner in Kentucky before moving to Michigan, after which time he worked at McGraw-Edison in Albion for 15 years, then retired to open used furniture stores in Litchfield and Albion.
He was also a musician, playing in several bands with his brothers, and raced cars at a local track for several years. Mr. Shepherd enjoyed a life-long passion for music, and could always be found tinkering with his numerous computers, music equipment and electronics he had acquired.
He is survived by his children, Ricky Shepherd of Marshall, Sherry (Jim) Maurer of Coldwater, and Randy (Annette Newsome) Shepherd of Homer; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and siblings, Isola Prater of Litchfield, Mae Watkins of Burlington, Fred Shepherd of Albion; Colleen March, Earl Shepherd, Teresa Vest and Faye Woodman, all of Battle Creek. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Estelle Shepherd, and sister, Vicki Sneed.
Visitation took place at the Craig K Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, 303 South Hillsdale Street Monday, November 24, from 10-11 a.m., with a funeral service taking place at 11 a.m., with Pastor Jim Snyder officiating.
Interment of cremated remains followed at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
Assistance with memorials is available at the Kempf Family Funeral Homes. Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guest book at www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Roscoe James Corey
Roscoe James Corey, 85, of Litchfield, passed away Wednesday, November 26, at Arbor Manor in Spring Arbor.
He was born December 28, 1928, in Litchfield, to Lester and Anna (Meiser) Corey.
Roscoe graduated from Litchfield High School in 1947, and served in the U.S. Army. He was employed at Simpson Industries until retirement, and was a member of the Litchfield United Methodist Church.
Survivors include his son, Craig (Elise) Corey of Florence, South Carolina; two grandchildren, Adam and Rachel Corey-Smith; two step-children, Steven and Cindy; a sister-in-law, Mary Corey of Toledo; and nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Janice (Worden); two brothers, Darrel and Raymond Corey; and two sisters, Miriam Smith and Thelma Larson.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at the Eagle Funeral Home-George White Chap-el in Litchfield, with the Rev. Julie Yoder Elmore officiating. Interment will follow in Mount Hope Cemetery, Litchfield. Visitation is scheduled Friday from noon until time of service.
Memorials are suggested to the Litchfield United Methodist Church or a charity of one’s choice.
The Corey family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff at Arbor Manor for their excellent care and dedication to Roscoe during this difficult time.
To view this obituary or send condolences, visit Eaglefuneralhomes.com.
December 10, 2014
Jean Marian Whaley
Jean Marian Whaley, 73, of Homer, passed away Monday, December 1, 2014, at Marshall Nursing and Rehab.
She was born March 6, 1941, in Homer, to Jerry and Mary (Aldridge) Cevela. She graduated from Litchfield High School in 1959, and served in the U.S. Navy. Jean worked many years in retail sales and industrial companies. She loved crocheting, hand crafts and sponsoring the Boy Scouts.
Survivors include two daughters, Sherry (Rodney) Baldwin of Corona, California, and Teresa Raymond (Rob Gallo) of Parma; two sons, Ray (Crystal) Whaley of Texas City, Texas, and David (Katrina) Whaley of Osseo; two sisters, Jerilyn (Chuck) Estep of Homer and Judy (Lyndy) Hunt of McLeod, Montana; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Jim Cevela.
Funeral services were 11 a.m. Saturday, at the Eagle Funeral Home-George White Chapel, Litchfield, with the Rev. Thomas Hollowood officiating. Interment will follow in Mount Hope Cemetery, Litchfield. Visitation was Friday from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home.
Memorials are suggested to the Boy Scouts of America or Breast Cancer Society.
To view this obituary or send condolences, visit eaglefuneralhomes.com.
December 17, 2014
Willis Miller
Willis Miller, of Homer, passed away Wednesday, December 10, 2014, at home with his loving family by his side.
He was born in Gapville, Kentucky, to Fred and Minerva (Prater) Miller. In 1971 he married Doris Huff.
Willis went into the Army in 1969 to serve his country. He worked the first few years of his adult life on the Floyd Lynn Farms and Factories until 1981. He then moved to Kentucky for 13 years and worked for the Kentucky Department of Transportation, where he retired on disability in 1995, and moved back to Michigan.
In the 1970s, Willis was a member of Bible Baptist Church, later, First Baptist in McDowell, Kentucky, Level Park Baptist in Battle Creek and was currently a member of First Baptist Church in Albion.
He loved to hunt, fish, garden, tend to his horses, and the last 10 years enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.
Willis is survived by his wife, Doris Miller, of Homer; a daughter, Melissa Fouts; sons, Michael (Ericka) Miller and Matthew (Tammy) Miller; grandchildren, Molly, Leeanne, Christopher, Lucas, Alexis, Ruthie and Carter; siblings, Josephine Hoyt, Thomas (Minnie) Miller, Washington (Shirley) Miller and Barbara (Lance) Bodner, all of Homer, Janice (Dalice) Williams of Litchfield, Willard (Mary) Miller of Jackson, Glenna (Tilden) Elkins of West Liberty, Kentucky, Dallis (Linda) Miller of Murfreesboro, Tennessee; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Kathleen Litton and Charles Ray Miller.
Visitation for family and friends was Sunday, December 14, from 5-8 p.m. at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, MI 49224. A funeral service was held Monday, December 15, at 10:30 a.m. at the First Baptist Church, 980 Haven Road, Albion, with Pastor Thomas Hollowood and Pastor Ronald Kinzel officiating.
Interment was at 2:30 p.m. Monday at Ft. Custer National Cemetery, Augusta.
Memorial contributions can be made to Great Lakes Hospice and American Cancer Society. (w/photo)
December 24, 2014
John D. Bartley
John D. Bartley, age 64, of Homer, passed away at Borgess Hospital Wednesday, December 10, 2014, while in the loving care of his family.
John was born September 26, 1950, in Hellier, Kentucky, to Robert and Helen Ruth (Osborne) Bartley. The family moved to Clarendon Township in 1954, and John has lived on the same land since then. He was a 1968 graduate of Homer High School.
After high school graduation, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, starting a 41-year career of service to his country. He served in Germany and was honorably discharged from the regular Army December 20, 1971, and entered service in the U.S. Army Reserve and Army National Guard. In 1985, he was awarded The Army Achievement Medal for Meritorious Achievement consistently exceeding his superior’s expectations, for his motivation and technical competence, and espirit de corps while serving as a Sergeant in B Battery, First Battalion 119th Field Artillery. He was honorably discharged from the Army National Guard March 31, 1995, and retired from the U.S. Army September 26, 2010.
While home on leave, his brother Randy kept after John telling him, “I’ve got the perfect girl for you!” John overcame his skepticism of his little brother’s choices and agreed to meet Karen Lee Bonogofsky at the Homer Grill. The couple started dating, fell in love and were married September 29, 1972, at her parent’s home. They have enjoyed a loving and fruitful marriage since.
John worked for over 20 years as a truck driver for Litchfield Grain, a job he loved. He particularly enjoyed delivering to the Amish, who looked forward to the box of suckers he carried for them! He retired in 2010. Prior to that, he worked at Kelsey-Hayes in Jackson, and Farley Brother’s Nursery in Albion.
He was a member of St.Catherine Catholic Church in Concord and their Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed participating in the K of C Tootsie Roll drive, and had sent a box of Tootsie Rolls to his grandson “D,” where he was serving with the Marine Corps!
John was a spiritual man who enjoyed reading the Gospel. He was a member of the American Legion. He had volunteered at the Hillsdale County Medical Care Facility, where his wife has worked for several years at Christmas time. He actually had come to enjoy taking on the role of Santa after he grew a beard that gave him great resemblance to the jolly fellow! He liked to hand out candy canes to children and share the real story of St. Nicholas with them. He was a charitable and giving man, always remembering Caring and Sharing in Homer with a pickup truck of food at Christmas, and by dropping in to say hi on a regular basis.
John enjoyed deer, squirrel and rabbit hunting. He was a people person, who loved to tease and laugh with family and friends. Regular stops for coffee and conversation at Gale’s Barber Shop were the norm! He loved his life as a husband, father and grandfather. He gave all of his grandchildren a nickname and their own special song! When friends and family visited John and Karen’s home, they were treated John’s favorite foods, as he displayed the “southern hospitality” he grew up with. He collected old walking sticks, and would often take one with him as they were great conversation pieces. He was a hobby farmer and enjoyed Bluegrass music.
Surviving are his wife, Karen; their children Tanya R. Kilgore of Homer, Peter M. (Amanda) Bartley of Hanover and Joel E. (Jaimie) Bartley of Homer; 13 grandchildren; his brother, Randy (Debi) Bartley of Springport; sisters, Mary Schwark of Union City, Dorothy (Ray) Smith of Tekonsha and Dianne Parsons of Burlington; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation was held at Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel Monday. Funeral services were held at the Homer Chapel Tuesday, December 16, at 10:30 a.m. with deacon Ken Snyder officiating. Committal services with military honors were held at Ft. Custer National Cemetery at 1 p.m. A fellowship followed at the Kempf Family Funeral Homes Homer Chapel’s Reception Hall.
The family suggests memorials be made to Homer’s Caring and Sharing. Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral home.
To leave family a message and sign the online guest register, visit kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Dale E. Willis
Dale E. Willis, age 73, of Marshall, died Tuesday, December 16, 2014, at Oaklawn Hospital after a brief illness.
Dale was born January 25, 1941, in Marshall, to Frank R. and Donna C. (Masters) Willis. He was raised in Marshall, the second oldest of his parents’ eight children. Dale attended Marshall Schools and was a member of the Marshall High School graduating class of 1961. Dale was a talented athlete, playing football, basketball and baseball for the Marshall Redskins.
He attended Kellogg Community College and played basketball for the KCC Bruins. Dale started his 31 year career with Eaton Corporation in Marshall in 1963, using his earnings to help support all of his family. Dale retired from Eaton’s in 1994, where he was a supervisor in the differential division.
But that was only his first retirement. Dale, ever active, then worked at numerous jobs, including with his friend Woody Dunham at Caleb Dunham Cheese, and for 10 years at the Kitchen Outlet Shop, from where he again retired in January of 2014.
Dale was married to Connie Blue in Homer in 1962. Their marriage ended in divorce in 1995.
Dale found love again, and was married to Jacqueline S. “Jackie” (Heddon) Warsop January 26, 2000.
He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. Dale remained very active with his son’s families and loved every minute of it. The grandchildren got to experience Dale’s legendary sense of humor, with all getting nicknames and adequate teasing! He was very proud of all of them.
Dale lived all of his life in Marshall and Homer. He continued with his love of athletics during his lifetime. He refereed both high school and collegiate basketball games for 25 years, and umpired girl’s softball for eight years. Dale played softball and basketball in both Homer and Marshall adult leagues for many years. Dale religiously read the sports pages in the newspaper and retained what he read. He could tell you who played for who, when and their stats, if asked! He enjoyed watching all sports but in particular he liked Tiger baseball and MSU sports.
He loved to golf, and never turned down a chance for a golf outing! He played at Alwyn Downs in the Moose League and B & E League. He was a member of Marshall Moose Lodge #676 for many years. While living in Homer, he was a member of the Homer United Methodist Church and had served as a trustee on the church board. Dale was a member of the Homer Athletic Boosters Club, where he will be remembered for his design of unique baseball uniforms for one season that his sons Tony and Nick wore proudly!
Dale is survived by his wife, Jackie; his sons and daughters-in-law, Tony and Kim Willis and Nick and Rebecca Willis, all of Homer; and Mitchell and Amie Willis of Midland; his seven grandchildren, Anna, Erin, Joey, Hayden, Devin, Garrett and Savanna Willis; his mother, Donna C. Willis of Marshall, his sister, Marilyn Hess of East Grand Rapids; and six brothers and sisters-in-law, Milford and Janice Willis of Newport News, Virginia, Larry and Betty Willis of Pennfield, Arnold and Patricia Willis of Lee Lake, Frank D. and Bobbi Willis of Paw Paw, Gene and Michele Willis of Coldwater, and Michael and Colleen Willis of Marshall; and many nieces and nephews.
Visitation was held at Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Marshall Chapel FRIDAY, December 19, with family will be present to greet friends and share memories. Services celebrating Dale’s life were held Saturday, December 20, at 11 a.m. at the Marshall Chapel. Cremation followed. A post-funeral reception followed in the funeral home’s reception hall.
Dale’s family would prefer that people remember him with a contribution to the Corporal Christopher Kelly Willis Foundation that provides for children of veterans who lost their lives or were disabled serving in Afghanistan or Iraq. This fund was very special to Dale and all of his family, as it was established in his nephew’s memory after his accidental death. For more information, visit Willisfoundation.net.
To leave a message for the family and sign the online guest register, please visit kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)
Boston Lee Blair
Boston Lee Blair, 31, of Jonesville, passed away Sunday, December 21, 2014, at his home.
He was born June 9, 1983, in Marshall, Michigan, to Billy Blair and Amber Beattie.
Boston graduated from Jonesville High School in 2001 and received a specialized Harley-Davidson mechanic degree from Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in Phoenix, Arizona. He was employed in the Tool Room at Tenneco in Litchfield. Boston served his country in the United States Marine Corps Reserve from 2001-2009 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was an avid Harley-Davidson enthusiast who also enjoyed hunting, country music and karaoke. Boston loved spending time with his family and friends, especially his boys.
Survivors include the love of his life for 12 years, Courtney Amrhein of Jonesville; two sons, Brennen and Branson Blair of Jonesville; mother, Amber Beattie and Glenn Timpe of Ann Arbor; father, Billy (Becky) Blair of Concord; sister, Amanda (Zach) Hubbard of Hudson; paternal grandparents, Bill and Sue Blair of Concord; mother- and father-in-law, Oralie Jo and Gary Amrhein of Jonesville; two sisters-in-law, Laurie (Jeremy) Knepfler of Jonesville and Brianna (Brent) Calligan of Hillsdale; step-grandfather, Steve Morgan of Litchfield; several extended family members; and his Blue Angel M.C. Brothers.
Boston was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents.
A celebration of life memorial visitation for Boston Blair will be Saturday, December 27, from 5-8 p.m. at the VanHorn-Eagle Funeral Home in Hillsdale.
Memorial donations are suggested to the family. Online condolences at www.eaglefuneralhomes.com. (w/photo)
Tyler Ball
Tyler Ball, 18, of Homer, died December 20, 2014.
Friends may call at Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel Friday from 2-8 p.m., with family present from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.
Services will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. at the Homer Chapel.
Memorials may be directed to the family, with checks made out to Melanie Ball.
A full obituary will appear in next week’s Index. www.kempffuneralhome.com.
December 31, 2014
Tyler Ball
Tyler Ball, 18, of Homer, passed away Sunday, December 21, 2014, at his home.
Tyler was born June 24, 1996, in Marshall, to Tracy Fred Ball and Melanie Ann (Wagner) Ball. He has lived in Homer all of his life and graduated from Homer High School in 2014. He ran track for one season for the Trojans until he tore a ligament in his leg.
While attending high school, Tyler started working construction jobs with his uncle Jim Wagner’s company, Ronald J. Wagner Construction. He has held this job the past five years and planned on it being his career. Recently, he worked on the store renovation project in downtown Homer.
If Tyler wasn’t working, you’d find him with a fishing pole in his hand at area fishing spots, especially his and his father Tracy’s favorite “honey spot” even sometimes at 2 a.m.! He always kept a pole in his car in case time and location permitted wetting his line!
He was a talented sketch artist and enjoyed drawing. Tyler enjoyed hanging out with his buddies, especially his very special cousin Shannon Wagner, with whom he grew up and graduated high school with. His parents noted that what Tyler didn’t think of, Shannon would! He liked all types of music, but especially classic rock and roll. Tyler just finished putting up a garage at the family home with his father, where the two looked forward to working together on cars.
He is survived by his parents, Tracy and Melanie Ball of Homer; his brothers, Cody and Blake Ball, both at home; maternal grandparents, Jim and Mary Worthington of Homer, and Ronald Wagner of Parma; his paternal grandmother, Ida Lorenz of Homer; and maternal great-grandmother, Marlene Semon of Homer; his uncles, Jim Wagner, Travis (Bliss) Baker, Nathan (Amanda) Baker, Dave Ball, Mike Ball, Chris Ball, Brian Lorenz, Matthew Wagner and Tim Semon; his special cousin with whom he was “joined at the hip” during their life together, Shannon Wagner of Homer; and many other cousins.
Tyler was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Fred Ball; paternal step-grandfather, Jack Lorenz; his great-grandparents, Leola and Will Lather; his great-grandfather, David Semon; and his aunts, Sarah Wagner and Deborah Perkins.
Family received friends at the Craig K. Kempf Family Funeral Homes, Homer Chapel, 303 S. Hillsdale Street, Friday and shared memories.
Services were held at the Homer Chapel Saturday, with Pastor Mark VanValin officiating. Cremation followed services.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family at the funeral home with checks made out to Melanie Ball.
To sign the online guest register and leave family a message, please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com. (w/photo)