HOW WE DETERMINE WHAT OBITUARIES WE ACKNOWLEDGED FROM YEAR-TO-YEAR:
As a past practice the GLHS50+ Board has only listed the obituaries for GLHS graduates that had passed from one years' reunion to the next. However we have noticed we periodically come across obituaries that we have missed in the past that may have occurred in a time frame outside of the traditional one-year span we track from reunion-to-reunion. With that in mind, we have decided to list any obituary we have missed that has occurred outside of the current one-year time span as part of the list of "THOSE WHO HAVE PASSED".
If you know of someone who has passed please let us now through the "CONTACT FORM" option from the menu bar above on any page of this website or by sending an email to [email protected].
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OBITUARIES ARE LISTED IN CLASS YEAR ORDER -- WITH COMPLETE OBITUARIES FOLLOWING THE LISTING:
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------------------------1930's--------------------------
7/24/2016 Jeanette "Rose" Babbitt. . . . . . . . . 1936
11/3/2016 Jeanette "Schavey" Miller. . . . . . . . .1937
2/10/2017 Edward A. Shaw, Sr. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1938
5/13/2015 John "Jack" Bryce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1939
7/10/2015 Ruth Elizabeth "Westfall" Maguire . . 1939
4/11/2014 Virginia "Vogt" Vance . . . . . . . . . . . . 1939
12/14/2016 Wendell E. Wilkins. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1939
------------------------1940's--------------------------
1/18/2017 Mary "Dixon" Pridgeon. . . . . . . . . . 1940
12/19/2016 Richard C. Rosier. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1940
3/14/2017 Cecilia Ethel "Stevens" Stambaugh. 1940
2/4/2017 Keith "Tom" Husted . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1941
10/1/2016 Dr. Mary "Alexander" Cain . . . . . . . . .1942
1/24/2015 Dora "McDonough" Morse . . . . . . . . .1942
6/11/2016 Norma "Baxter" Marshall . . . . . . . . . .1943
9/17/2016 Trillis "Eaton" Boyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1943
3/1/2016 Margaret Louise "Green" Wetzbar . .1943
4/17/2016 Betty "Patrick" Carter . . . . . . . . . . . .1944
4/10/2017 Shirley "Millard" Dayton . . . . . . . . . . .1944
2/23/2017 Marjorie Hefflebower" Zischke . . . . . 1944
12/16/2016 Aletha Mae "Barnes Cosens. . . . . . . .1945
12/29/2016 Beverly "Kopkau" Simonds. . . . . . . . 1946
6/9/2016 James Henry Baker. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1947
4/5/2017 Norma "Thomas" Barnes . . . . . . . . . . 1947
5/28/2016 Dale J. Benjamin, Jr.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1947
4/12/2017 John Doane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1947
1/24/2016 Virginia Elaine "Brunsman" Sablain . . .1947
10/3/2016 Phylis "Parsons" Willis . . . . . . . . . . . . 1948
10/8/2016 Frances "Tegels" Baker. . . . . . . . . . . . .1949
5/28/2016 Jack L. Hankins. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1949
9/26/2016 Johanna "Abbruzzese" Parshall . . . . . 1949
------------------------1950's--------------------------
3/28/2016 Robert T. Edgar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1950
9/30/2016 Onalee Marie "Heath" Kelton. . . . . . . .1950
2/2/2017 Marilyn "Dillis" Lyons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1950
12/10/2016 Carol "Reedy" Brookman . . . . . . . . . . .1951
6/4/2016 Marilyn “Maier” Smith. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1951
2/13/2017 Meritta "Bloom" Huver . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1952
9/5/2016 Lyle L. Johnson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1952
10/16/2016 Jean "Ladd" Lonsberry. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1952
4/10/2017 Gary J. Hershoren . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1953
6/8/2015 Glenn M. Smith, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1953
3/11/2017 Lawrence Vandermoere. . . . . . . . . . . . .1953
1/24/2017 Peggy Joan "Reed" Baldwin. . . . . . . . . 1954
11/20/2016 John W. Frank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1955
1/1/2017 Hilda "Griese" Goetzka . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1955
12/21/2016 Dan E. Hankins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1955
2/24/2017 Richard Charles Northrup . . . . . . . . . . . .1955
4/25/2017 Barbara "Baker" Armstrong . . . . . . . . . . 1956
3/29/2017 Gary J. Brunette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1956
11/2/2016 Stephen Frederick Graszler. . . . . . . . . . .1956
4/12/2016 Ronald G. Peterson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1956
3/16/2017 Gerald K. Berner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1957
1/2/2017 Jerolyn "VanderMoere" Johnson. . . . . . .1957
9/19/2016 Mary Alyce "Ansley" Strieter . . . . . . . . 1957
12/4/2016 Gordon Eugene "Gene" Clark. . . . . . . . . 1958
8/21/2016 Larry Dobson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1958
2/25/2017 Richard "Dick" Love . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1958
8/31//2016 David "Skip" C. Meredith. . . . . . . . . . . . 1958
3/25/2017 James Lee Murphy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1958
9/20/2016 Janet "Hutchison" Ripley. . . . . . . . . . . . 1958
8/1/2016 Laverne Coral Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1958
10/10/2016 Garry Kenneth Hengesbaugh . . . . . . . .1959
3/22/2017 Drusilla "Thomson" Kintigh . . . . . . . . . . 1959
------------------------1960's--------------------------
1/12/2017 Paul Dean Elder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1960
3/7/2016 Carl Steven Lamb . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1960
3/25/2017 Marilyn "Provo" White. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1960
10/21/2016 Edward Ernest Bodell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1961
1/13/2017 Dennis G. Conarton. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1961
1/8/2017 Ronald Robert Fox. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1961
1/18/2017 LaVerne Richard Reed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1961
5/6/2016 Nancy "Wilcox" Skinkle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1961
1/30/2017 Linda "Finstrom" Houseman. . . . . . . . . .1962
7/16/2016 Sheila “Robinson” Packer. . . . . . . . . . . . .1962
7/8/2016 Robert Lynn Starkweather. . . . . . . . . . . .1963
11/8/2016 Gary Lee Debler. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1964
5/2/2017 Kathleen "Lear" Hasselbring . . . . . . . . . . 1964
7/21/2016 Michael W. Ballans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1965
4/4/2017 William Lloyd Trachsel, Sr. . . . . . . . . . . . .1965
5/31/2016 Michael V. Chemacki. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1966
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CLASS of 1936
Jeanette "Rose" Babbitt
May 20, 1918 - July 24, 2016
Jeanette E. Babbitt, 98, born May 20, 1918 in Riley Twp., Clinton County, MI, passed away July 24, 2016 in Charlotte, MI. Jeanette was a graduate of Grand Ledge High School; member of Wacousta Community United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, Neighborhood Society and Eagle Cemetery Society. She was a life member and past matron of Wacousta O.E.S. Chapter 133 and past officer of White Shrine of Ionia.
Jeanette is survived by her sons, Vernon and Melvin (April) Babbitt, six grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, Lewis.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, July 28, 2016 at 11:00 A.M. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, with interment to follow at Wacousta Cemetery, Watertown Twp., Clinton County. Visitation will be held at the funeral home Wednesday, July 27th from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., with O.E.S. services to be conducted at 7:30 P.M.
For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Jeanette to Wacousta Community United Methodist Church.
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CLASS of 1937
Jeanette "Schavey" Miller
August 9, 1919 - November 2016
Montpelier
Jeanette “Schavey” Miller, 97, of Montpelier passed away Monday morning at Hillside Country Living in rural Bryan. She was born on August 9, 1919 in Grand Ledge, Michigan to Archie and Mertie (Allen) Schavey. Jeanette graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1937. She earned her RN degree from St. Lawrence Hospital in Lansing, Michigan.
Jeanette was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Montpelier and a former member of the Montpelier Civic League. Jeanette worked as an RN after graduation until moving to Montpelier. She then worked alongside her husband Bill at the Leader Enterprise for 20 years, before returning to nursing at the Bryan Medical Group where she worked for Dr. Carrico and where she retired.
Jeanette is survived by her children Bob (Fran) Bryce of Whitehouse, Alan (Judy) Miller of Seattle, Washington, and Ann (Jim) Roseen of California; three grandchildren Bobbi (Brad) Miller, Christa (Mark) Pawlaczyk, and Teresa (John) Ernsthausen and eight great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, first husband Bill Bryce, second husband Keith Miller, daughter Mary Kay Bryce, son Jeff Miller, and sister Leone Turner.
A time to receive friends was held on Thursday, November 3, 2016 at the First Presbyterian Church in Montpelier with a memorial service following at the church with Reverend David Tilly. Interment was at Oakwood Cemetery in Grand Ledge, Michigan. Memorial Contributions may be given to the First Presbyterian Church of Montpelier.
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CLASS of 1938
Edward A. Shaw, Sr.
November 9, 1919 - February 10, 2017
Grand Ledge
Edward Albert Shaw, Sr., 97, went to be with his Lord and Savior, February 10, 2017. Born November 9th, 1919, in a farm house in Wacousta, MI, to Cecil and Bertha Shaw. He was the youngest of three children. He was preceded in death by his wife of 72-1/2 years, Dorothy Dick-Shaw, and his older brother, Harold Cecil Shaw. Family left behind are his older sister, Irene Krug, four Sons and Daughters-in-Law: Ronald & Nancy Shaw, Terry & Elaine Shaw, Edward Albert Jr & Cindy Shaw, James & Carol Shaw. Also left behind are seven Grandchildren, and 16 Great Grandchildren. Edward was a WWII veteran serving in the US Army Air Corp in the European Theater as an Airplane Welder & Mechanic. After 36 years of service with Industrial Welding, Inc. (Enprotech) in Lansing, MI as a welder and machinist, he retired in 1985.
Visitation will be held Sunday, February 12, 2017, from 2- 4 and 6 - 8 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, MI. Funeral services will be held Monday, February 13, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Maranatha Baptist Church, 2300 N. Waverly Road in Lansing, MI, followed by Military Graveside Service at Delta Center Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Camp Barakel or Great Lakes Caring.
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CLASS of 1939
John "Jack" Bryce
January 16, 1922 - May 13, 2015
John “Jack” Bryce, 93, of Bryan passed Monday night at Hillside Country Living in rural Bryan. He was born on January 16, 1922 in Onaway, Michigan to Frank A. and Else D. (Winkelman) Bryce. Jack graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1939. He then received his Bachelor of Science in Journalism from Michigan State University in 1948. He proudly served his country in the United States Army Air Force with the 8th Air Force as a bombardar with the 100th Bomb Group during World War II. Jack married Arleta “Lee” S. Kolbe and she preceded him in death in May of 2013.
In 1950 Jack became the co-owner and editor of the Leader Enterprise with his brother William. At that time they also purchased the Edon Commercial, the Edgerton Earth, and the Tri-State Shopping News, now known as the County Line.
Jack is survived by two sons, Geoffrey (Sharon) Bryce of LaGrange Park, Illinois and Joel (Nancy) Bryce of Bryan; three step-daughters, Pamela (Mike) Rader of Traverse City, Michigan, Vicki (Jon) Hake of Edon, Ohio and Toni (Kevin) McCourt of Montpelier; one sister-in-law Jeanette Miller of Montpelier, twelve grandchildren and several great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Lee, and a brother William in 1968.
Visitation for Jack was held on Thursday, May 14, 2015 at the Thompson Funeral Home on Main Street in Montpelier. Services were held on Thursday, May 14, 2015 with military rites provided by the Montpelier Veterans. A private interment was at Oakwood Cemetery in Grand Ledge, Michigan.
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CLASS of 1939
Ruth Elizabeth "Westfall" Maguire
December 8, 1921 - July 10, 2015
Battle Creek
Ruth Elizabeth “Westfall” Maguire, of Battle Creek passed quietly at home at Pennfield Premier Living residence surrounded by family on July 10, 2015. Ruth was born to the late Harper and Hazel (Strouse) Westfall.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Laurel LaVail Maguire, brothers, Tom and Charles Westfall, sister Fern Howe, and son-in-law, Ron Wilcox.
Along with her faith and pastoral ministry with LaVail, her greatest joy has been her 3children, Roger (Pat) Maguire, Carolyn Wilcox, Marlene (Len) Lawson, and their families: 9 grand children, Michelle, Lisa, Scott, Rodney, Carla, Cheryl, Rick, Matthew and Elizabeth. And 14 great-grandchildren: Alex, Cynthia, Madison, Brady, Baylee, Brandon, Jack, Sam, Grace, Lauren, McKenna, Stanley, D’Right, and Shaymar.
During the past 22 years Ruth actively attended Andrus Street Church of God, where she and her husband previously pastored and also attended Calvary Baptist Church with her family.
Ruth and her husband, LaVail, ministered in Michigan for over 50 years pastoring churches in Munising, Cash, Port Huron, and Battle Creek. She spent the majority of her life serving God, her family, and others.
She liked to stay busy and work with her hands, baking, cleaning, gardening, sewing, crocheting, and decorating among other activities. She loved to serve and could work circles around most people. She continued visiting and ministering to people after her husbands’ passing in 1993 until she could no longer drive. Many people have been blessed by her homemade bread and cookies.
Ruth spent the last 7 years in the care of, and surrounded by, her family. She will be greatly missed but has left a great legacy and is home now in the presence of Jesus and reunited with LaVail.
Graveside interment service at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge MI, Tuesday, July 14, 2015.
A Memorial Open House was held at CityLinC Ministries, Battle Creek, MI, Tuesday, July 14th, 2015.
Ruth's family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the phenomenal staff of Centracare, Pennfield Premier Living and the Cretsinger family, and Bronson Hospice BC, for their exceptional, compassionate care of mom and support for our family.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial donations be made to The Gideons International, Nashville, Tennessee or Andrus St. Church of God, Battle Creek, MI.
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CLASS of 1939
Virginia "Vogt" Vance
August 3, 1922 - April 11, 2014
Virginia Brett Vogt Vance, 91, long-time resident of East Jordan, died Friday, April 11, 2014 at Autumn Joy Assisted Living Facility in Hayes Township.
She was born August 3, 1922 in Grand Ledge to Harrison and Blanche (Brett) Vogt.
She graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1939 and from Michigan State College in 1943 with a Bachelor of Science degree in home economics.
On July 12, 1942 she married Bryce Vance in Grand Ledge. They made their home on the Vance family farm in Echo Township. Bryce died July 22, 1987.
Virginia was a county extension agent and asparagus grower. She taught home economics and algebra in several area schools and was also a school librarian. She will be greatly missed by family and friends.
She is survived by her brother Richard (Florence) Vogt of St. Paul, Minnesota, sisters-in-law Jane Tennant and Patricia Schloop, best friend Shelby Ziegler and many loyal nieces and nephews as well as a large group of former students. She was preceded in death by half-brothers Dale Vogt and Lynden Vogt.
The family extends special thanks to the Autumn Joy staff for their compassionate care and to Shelby Ziegler for her innumerable kindnesses.
A memorial service was held on Saturday, May 17,2014 at at the East Jordan United Methodist Church with Pastor Rap Posnik officiating. For those wishing to make memorial contributions the family suggests the East Jordan United Methodist Church.
Arrangements were made by Hastings Funeral Home in Ellsworth.
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CLASS of 1939
Wendell E. Wilkins
October 24, 1921 - December 15, 2016
Wendell E. Wilkins, 95, lifetime area resident, born October 24, 1921, passed away at home December 15, 2016. Wendell graduated from Grand Ledge High School, Class of 1939, attended Michigan State Agricultural College, and served in the U.S. Army during WWII. He was a retired farmer and retired employee with 36 years for Clark Construction Co. of Lansing. Wendell was a former mayor and councilman for the City of Grand Ledge; lifetime member of Grand Ledge Masonic Lodge #179; member of the Grand Ledge First United Methodist Church, and member of Cole-Briggs American Legion Post 48.
Survivors include his wife of 74 years, Jean, son Mark (Sandy) Wilkins, Linda (Rick) Olsen; five grandchildren: Nicole (Josh) Charter, Amy Wilkins, Adam (Hiram) Wilkins, Meredith Olsen, and Jonathan Olsen; three great grandchildren: Celia, Bailey, and Madison.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, December 20, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at the Grand Ledge First United Methodist Church, 411 Harrison St., with Military Honors to follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. Visitation will be held Monday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to the Grand Ledge First United Methodist Church Memorial Fund.
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CLASS of 1940
Richard C. Rosier
January 28, 1922 - December 19, 2016
Richard C. Rosier, 94, passed away at home on December 19, 2016. He was born January 28, 1922 in Westphalia Twp., Clinton Co., MI, son of Louis and Cora (Bentley) Rosier. Richard was a lifetime area farmer and retired from the U.S. Postal Service. He was a member of Wacousta Community United Methodist Church; past master and life member of Wacousta-Dewitt Lodge #359 F. & A.M., past patron and life member of Wacousta Chapter #133 O.E.S., 332nd Degree Mason, and member of the Shriners.
Survivors include his loving wife of 72 years, Elizabeth ‘Betty’ (Rowland), son Russell Rosier (Barbara Ryden), daughters, Carolyn (Don) Jones and Marjorie (Mark) Gober; 8 grandchildren: Andy (D’rtania) Rosier, Jason Preidis, Angela Frazier, Gabriel (Emily) White, Megan (Ryan) Keast, Chad Gober, Corri (Matt) Mooney, and Caleb Gober; 12 great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brothers Earl and Neil, sisters Helen Larson and Mildred Morris.
Funeral services will be held Friday, December 23, 2016 – 11:00 a.m. at Wacousta Community United Methodist Church, 9180 Herbison Road, Eagle (Watertown Twp.). Interment at Wacousta Cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., with Masonic Services beginning 7:30 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Memorial contributions may be made to Wacousta Community United Methodist Church or Sparrow Hospice.
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CLASS of 1940
Cecilia Ethel "Stevens" Stambaugh
January 20, 1922 - March 12, 2017
Cecilia Ethel “Stevens” Stambaugh of St. Louis formerly of Grand Ledge passed away March 12, 2017. Cecilia was born January 20, 1922 in Port Huron, Michigan to the late Theodore and Sally (Simon) Stevens. Cecilia was a retired licensed beautician and practical nurse. She enjoyed to crochet, read, and was a wonderful cook. Cecilia liked to be a host and have people over to the house and always looked forward to spending time with her family.
She is survived by her children, Darrel (Kathy) of Arizona, Marlene (Raymond) Crenshaw of Delta Twp., and Marilyn (Edward) Davis of St. Louis; 10 grandchildren; numerous great and great great grandchildren; siblings, Jerome (Lois) LaFontzee of Evart and June Ann Hazen of Grand Ledge. Cecilia was preceded in death by husband, C. Duane on October 19, 1998 along with sisters, Mary Ross and Joan Lancaster.
A memorial service will be held at a later time. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
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CLASS of 1940
Mary "Dixon" Pridgeon
July 5, 1922 - January 18, 2017
Age 94, passed away Wednesday, January 18, 2017 at Oakview Terrace. She was born in Grand Ledge, MI on July 5, 1922, the last of six children of Clayton and Elenora (Sanders) Dixon. At age 11, both parents died, but Mary Louise persevered and graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1940. She attended Parsons Business School in Kalamazoo and was Vice President of the local chapter of the Alpha Iota Sorority. Her first job after graduation was secretary at the Centerville Sanitarium in Centerville, MI. At that time, Mary met her future husband, Warren Troyer Pridgeon. They married on August 15, 1942, settling in Kalamazoo, and they were married for 73 years, until his death in 2015. For many years Mary Louise worked at the Brown Company in Kalamazoo. Over the years, Warren and Mary Louise attended Simpson United Methodist Church, Westwood United Methodist, Kalamazoo Wesleyan and Westwood Church of God (now Grace Harbor Church). Mary Louise’s passion in life was to serve the Lord Jesus in raising her children and serving the community. In the early 1960’s, she was Chairman of the Women’s Division of the Kalamazoo Safety Council and, beginning in the early 1970’s, served as a volunteer mentor for mothers receiving assistance under the Aid to Dependent Children program. She also started Bible clubs for children at Patwood, a low income housing project in Kalamazoo. For many years, she and Warren made work trips to the Southwest Indian School in Arizona. Mary Louise also made a short term mission trip to Ecuador. She served as president of the Ladies Auxiliary at the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission. She started many small prayer groups and was a prayer counselor in many evangelistic crusades that came through Kalamazoo. Toward the end of her life, she led Bible studies and craft activities at various nursing homes. Mary Louise is survived by her children, Nancy (Mike) Chase and Jim (Joy) Pridgeon; and grandchildren, Tim (Caroline), Andrew, Marie and Joanna Chase, Matthew, Emily and Michael Pridgeon.
A memorial service to celebrate Mary Louise's life was held on Saturday, January 28, 2017 at Grace Harbor Church. Visitation was held at Joldersma & Klein Funeral Home on Friday, January 27, 2017. Burial took place at Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park.
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CLASS of 1941
Keith "Tom" Husted
June 11, 1923 - February 4, 2017
Keith “Tom” Husted age 93, lifelong Wacousta resident went home to Jesus on February 4, 2017. Tom was born June 11, 1923 in Wacousta to Troy and Josephine Husted.
Tom was a Grand Ledge High School graduate Class of 1941, was a WW II Army Veteran, lifetime American Legion Cole-Briggs Post 48 member, and longtime faithful member of Mt. Hope Church. Tom was retired from Carlings Black Label Distribution. Tom along with his wife Jake and their family were blessed to celebrate seventy-one years of marriage on February 2, 2017.
Tom was preceded in death by his son, Gregory in 2009. He is survived by his loving wife of 71 years, B. Jean “Jake” Husted; daughter, Laurie (Dave) Staley; granddaughter, Brinah (Josh) Staley Cook; grandsons, Bronson Staley, Evan and Ryan Husted; great granddaughter, Delaney Cook; daughter-in-law, Sandy Husted along with several sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.
A private family military graveside service will be held at the Wacousta Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to the Capital Area Humane Society or to the family to be used according to their wishes. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
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CLASS of 1942
Dr. Mary Alexander" Cain
December 15, 1924 - October 1, 2016
Kalamazoo
Dr. Mary Alexander Cain, retired Professor Emeritus of Education at Western Michigan University, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 1, 2016 at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan, with family present. She was 91 years old. Mary was born December 15, 1924 in Lansing, Michigan, the only daughter of Ethel Rogers Alexander and Rutgers Alexander. Raised in Grand Ledge, Michigan, she was valedictorian of the Grand Ledge High School class of 1942. She graduated cum laude with a Bachelor's degree in education from the University of Michigan in 1946, with Phi Beta Kappa, Phi Kappa Phi, Phi Lambda Theta & Alpha Lambda Delta awards, and went on to earn her Master's degree in Teaching in the Elementary School from Western Michigan University in 1961, and her Ph.D. in Education Psychology and Child Development from Michigan State University in 1970. Mary retired in 1992 as Professor of Education and Professional Development after a 31 year teaching career. She taught on many areas of education including human development, learning, child-rearing, gender roles, parent education, social and political influences on the family, early childhood education, field supervision, classroom organization and management, and systems for developing pro-social behavior. She was also active in the faculty senate and chaired the committee for the development of undergraduate education. Over her career, she received a number of awards including the Woman of the Year Award (1978 & 1986), the Distinguished Service Award (1991), the Preeminent Pioneers Award (1991), from Western Michigan University; the Distinguished Faculty Award from the Michigan Association of Governing Boards (1985); the President's Award - Michigan Conference, from the American Association of University Professors (1988); and the Distinguished Teaching Award from the Michigan State Legislature (1991). Following her retirement from WMU, Mary served for over a decade as an evaluator for federally funded literacy programs. Mary spent her adult life working for justice and equal rights for all people. She was active in Action Now, chairing the committee working towards improvements in Kalamazoo public education to provide equal educational opportunity for all. A champion of equal rights for women, she developed the non-sexist education curriculum at Western Michigan University, and published the book Boys and Girls Together in 1981. She was an active member of the American Association of University Professors, serving as President 1983 through 1986, and earning the AAUP Presidential Award for outstanding service. After retirement, Mary worked with others to form the Western Association of Retired Faculty (WARF) to ensure that retired WMU faculty have a voice in decisions regarding their retirement benefits. Mary was an accomplished quilter, a member of the Log Cabin Quilters, and often presented personalized gifts of her work to family and friends. She was also interested in music and theater, frequently attending local theatrical events as well as making yearly visits to Stratford, Ontario to enjoy Shakespeare with friends.
Mary is survived by her daughter, Rachel Cain of White Bear Lake, MN; her daughter Hester Klinesteker and son-in-law Mark Klinesteker of Fair Oaks, CA; her son Gregory Cain of West Sacramento, CA; her granddaughter Sarah Davidson and grandson-in-law Alexander Baugh of Philadelphia, PA; her grandson Edward Folly of St. Paul MN; her grandson Christopher Bryant of Tallahassee, FL; her grandson Benjamin Bryant of Seattle, WA.; and her great grandson Jasper Roux Baugh of Philadelphia PA. She was predeceased by grandson Alexander Bryant of Tallahassee, FL. A visitation will be held at Langeland Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick St., Kalamazoo, Michigan, on Thursday, October 6, 2016 from 3:00 to 5:00pm. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery, 301 Oakwood St, Grand Ledge, MI 48837, Friday, October 7, 2016 at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Farmer’s Alley Theatre, Kalamazoo, Michigan or the Department of Theater, College of Fine Arts, Western Michigan University.
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CLASS of 1942
Dora "McDonough" Morse
September 19, 1924 - January 24, 2015
Holt
A loving wife, mother and grandmother passed away peacefully at home on January 24, 2015. Born September 19, 1924 in Wacousta, the daughter of H. Judd and Gladys McDonough. On December 20, 1942 she married the love of her life Russel Morse. Together they raised their three sons and two daughters in Holt.
Dora is survived by her loving husband of 72 years, Russel; children, Grant Morse, Norman (Sally) Morse, Kandace Spalding, Denise (Stanley) McLellan, daughter-in-law Karen Morse; many grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren; and her special kitty, Babe. She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Margaret and three brothers, Howard, Melvin and Lloyd McDonough; son, Brett Morse; grandsons, Freddie and Brian Morse; and daughter-in-law Sandra Morse.
A celebration to commemorate Dora's life will be held at a later time. The family wishes to thank McLaren Hospice nurses and staff for their compassionate care and support.
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CLASS of 1943
Norma "Baxter" Marshall
June 11, 2016
Donaldson, Oregon
Norma “Baxter” Marshall, 90 of Donaldson Oregon, passed away, Saturday, June11, 2016 at the age of 90.
Norma was raised in Grand Ledge, Michigan and was a graduate of Grand Ledge High School, the class of 1943.
Survivors include two children; Doug and his wife Lisa; and Pam (Nick) Napier of California; grandchildren Aron and family, of Cape Town South Africa; and Josh and family of Louisville Kentucky.
Norma also leaves behind her brother, Stanley Baxter, Larry Baxter, sister Carole Baxter Hart, and sister-in-law, Harriet Baxter; as well as six grandchildren.
A private Internment was held at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon, on Monday, June 13, 2016.
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CLASS of 1943
Trillis "Eaton" Boyer
September 26, 1925 - September 17, 2016
Chelsea, Michigan
A celebration of life was held to remember Donley W. & Trillis M. (Eaton) Boyer on Saturday, October 29, 2016, at 1:00 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea with their grandson, Tim Bristle, officiating. Private burial was held at Meadowbrook Cemetery in Mulliken, MI, immediately following the service. Don was born September 20, 1920 to Carl W. & Viola M. (DePew) Boyer. He lived in Mulliken, but graduated from Grand Ledge High School. He attended Western Michigan University for 2 years before World War II interrupted his studies. He spent 4 years in the Air Force during WWII. Don was a Conservation Officer for the State of Michigan in Washtenaw County for most of his career. In 1971, he accepted a promotion as District Law Supervisor of Pontiac Lake, supervising the officers of the 4 metro counties. He retired in 1980. Don passed away on October 15, 2007 at Bear Creek Assisted Living in Hudson, Florida. Trill was born on September 26, 1925 to Joseph E. & Mildred M. (McCully) Eaton. She lived in Owosso, Grand Ledge & Mulliken, graduating from Grand Ledge High School. She was a homemaker and a Dental Assistant at U of M, retiring in 1972. Trill passed away on September 17, 2016 at Golfside Hospice in Hudson, Florida. On November 9, 1943, Don & Trill were united in marriage at the Methodist Church of Mulliken. They lived in Colorado Springs during WWII, then moving to Chelsea, where they raised their 4 daughters, before moving to Milford, Michigan and retiring to Bayonet Point, Florida in 1980.
Survivors include four daughters, Doni Doering of Bedford, IN, Penny (Norman) Hannewald) of Plymouth, MI, Melody (James) Bristle of Chelsea, MI, and Terry Shoup of Riverview, MI. 8 grandchildren, Matthew (Amy) & Daniel (Brittany) Doering, Marcia, Gregory (Amy), & Mark Hannewald, Timothy (Anna) Bristle & Wendy (Scott) Carlson, Dawn Boyer-Shoup; 11 great-grandchildren, Cailey & Nicholas Doering, Branson Smoot, Natalie & Gabrielle Hannewald, Skylar & Karly Bristle, Trevor, Samantha, Matthew Carlson, Anthony Garbacz (guardian child); 3 step-grandchildren, Logan & Leslie Carlson, Stephanie (Ty) Robinson and 2 step-great-grandchildren, Maree and Merritt Robinson.
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CLASS of 1943
Margaret Louise "Green" Wetzbar
September 21, 1924 - March 1, 2016
Jackson
Margaret Louise “Green” Wetzbar, "Peggy" Louise of Jackson went home to be with the Lord Tuesday, March 1, 2016 at Allegiance Health at the age of 91. Margaret was the daughter of Vern and Claire P. (Brazee) Green, born September 21, 1924 in Grand Ledge, Michigan. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Howard T. Wertzbar; her parents; sister, Ann Selden; two brothers and sisters-in law, Jack (Joann) Green and Bert (Dorothy) Green. She is survived by two sons, Michael (Marcia) Wertzbar and Gary (Linda) Wertzbar; five grandchildren, Jeff (Julie) Wertzbar, Chris (Jeannie) Wertzbar, Michelle Wertzbar, Scott Wertzbar (Tim Philiphart), and Brian (Kathy) Wertzbar; nine great-grandchildren; brother, David Green; brother0in-law, Richard Selden. Margaret was a graduate from Grand Ledge High School. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who loved spending time with her family and friends. She enjoyed playing bingo, many games, riding snowmobiles, and Northern Michigan.
A celebration of her life was held at Watson Funeral Chapel in Jackson, Wednesday, March 9, 2016 with the Reverend Edward Ross officiating, with interment Oakwood Cemetery in Grand Ledge, MI .
Memorial contributions in memory of Margaret may be made to the American Heart Association Midwest Affiliate, 3816 Paysphere Circle, Chicago, IL 60674.
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CLASS of 1944
Betty "Patrick"Carter
September 19, 1926 - April 17, 2016
Age 89, passed away April 17, 2016. She was born September 19, 1926, in Lansing, to Merten and Clara Patrick.
Betty is survived by her 3 children, Stephen Carter, Mary (Richard) Carter Suurmeyer and Suzy (Richard) Carter Koths; 2 grandchildren, Bo Ferman and Emily (Reda) Al-Shaer; 3 great-grandchildren, Kareem, Rasha and Raneem Al-Shaer; and many nieces, nephews and other extended family members.
She was preceded in death by her husband, William H. Carter, in 2007, and her brother, Glenn Patrick.
The funeral service was held on Thursday, April 21, 2016, at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel. Interment followed in Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lansing Area Safety Council.
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CLASS of 1944
Shirley "Millard" Dayton
April 27, 1926 - April 10, 2017
Shirley Jean Dayton of Grand Ledge passed away April 10, 2017 at age 90. Shirley was born April 27, 1926 to Harrison and Christine Millard, the oldest of three daughters. She married Forrest K. Dayton and raised four children: James, Bonnie, Bill and Scott. She worked for Grand Ledge Public Schools for twenty-three years in food service at Holbrook School. She was an active member of First Congregational Church, past member of Altar Society, Congregators and Charlotte Clark group at church. She was a former member of American Legion Auxiliary Post 48. She enjoyed meeting friends at McDonald’s, playing cards and bingo.
She is survived by sons, Bill (LeeAnn) Dayton, Scott (LuAnn) Dayton; son-in-law, Dave Robertson; grandsons, Darren (Bridgit) Dayton, David (Jaime) Robertson, Andrew Dayton; granddaughters, Jill (Joseph) Fillingham, Laura (Rick) Reker; 10 great grandchildren, 1 great great grandchild along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by parents, former husband; son, James; daughter, Bonnie; grandson, Troy; sisters, Wilma and Joan.
A funeral service will be held Saturday, April 15, 2017, 11 a.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge with The Reverend Gregory J. Briggs, officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be given to the American Cancer Society, Mid-Michigan Office, 1755 Abbey Road, East Lansing, Michigan 48823 or Grand Ledge First Congregation UCC, 210 W. Saginaw Highway, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837.
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CLASS of 1944
Marjorie "Hefflebower" Zischke
September 2, 1926 - February 23, 2017
Marjorie “Hefflebower” Zischke, age 90 of Lansing, went to be with her heavenly father on Thursday, February 23, 2017, at her home. She was born September 2, 1926, in Freeport to Vernor and Ollie (Allerding) Hefflebower. Marjorie graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1944. On June 15, 1946, she married Lynden Albert Zischke. Marjorie was a loving, devoted farm wife and mother who enjoyed crafting, baking, gardening and embroidery. She was a member of Crossroads Community Church in Eagle.
Surviving are four children, Ralph (Vicki) Zischke of Lansing, Ken (Mary) Zischke of Lansing, James (Debi) Zischke of Leesburg, FL and Marlene (David) Arbour of Lansing; daughter-in-law, Julie Zischke of DeWitt; 12 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren and sister, Donna (Clifford) Stanhope of Stanton.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Roger Zischke; sisters, Arlene (Dorman) Tran, Flossie (Glenwood) Rairigh; Gladys Hefflebower and Frances (Edmund) Myer.
Visitation will be Saturday, February 25, 2017 from 4-6 pm at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home in Grand Ledge.
A funeral service will be held on Sunday, February 26, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at Grand Ledge Church of the Nazarene with Pastors Dan Cameron and Colby Hetcel officiating. For those desiring, contributions may be made to Crossroads Community Church, 13940 S. Grange Road, Eagle, Michigan 48822.
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CLASS of 1945
Aletha Mae "Barnes" Cosens
Aletha Mae Cosens (Barnes) of Eagle, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2016 at the age of 89. Aletha graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1945. She began her career working for the R.E. Olds Company. She retired from the State of Michigan Public Health Department; was a member of the Audubon Society for many years; enjoyed traveling and music.
Aletha was preceded in death by her husband John, her parents Russell and Mildred (Ike) Barnes, brothers Daniel and Carl Barnes, and sister-in-law Bennie Charlene Barnes. Aletha is survived by her three daughters: Lorie Paez of Grand Ledge, Ava (Don) Mayes of Haslett, and Susie (Mike) Herring of Eagle. At Aletha’s request, graveside services will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
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CLASS of 1946
Beverly "Kopkau" Simonds
December 9, 1928 - December 29, 2016
Kalamazoo
Beverly “Kopkau” Simonds of Kalamazoo Beverly passed away on Thursday afternoon, December 29, 2016 at Bronson Methodist Hospital. She was born on December 9, 1928 in Grand Ledge, MI, the daughter of the late Walter and Emma (Sanders) Kopkau. Beverly graduated from University of Michigan. She worked as a dental hygienist for several years. On March 26, 1955, she was united in marriage to Robert S. Simonds Jr. She was a member of First Congregational Church UCC in Kalamazoo for many years. Surviving are her husband of 61 years: Robert Simonds Jr.; their two daughters: Kathy Spilman of Kalamazoo and Carolyn (Ron) Kozlowicz of Darien, IL; five grandchildren: Elizabeth, Robert and Emily Spilman, Claire Kozlowicz and Nick (Carla) Kozlowicz; two great-grandchildren: Addison and Alex Kozlowicz; two brothers: Carl Kopkau of Englewood, FL and Gary (Sherry) Kopkau of Troy, MI; and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation was held on Tuesday, January 3, 2017 at Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 S. 9th Street, with a funeral service to celebrate Beverly's life immediately after at 1:00 PM. Interment was in Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, Loaves and Fishes or Housing Resources, Inc.
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CLASS of 1947
James Henry Baker
June 20, 1928 - June 9, 2016
James Henry Baker of Grand Ledge a loving father, grandfather and friend passed away June 9, 2016 surrounded by family. Jim was born June 20, 1928 in Grand Ledge to the late David and Wilma (McNutt) Baker. He graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1947 and went on to serve for six years in the U.S. Air Force. He retired as a tool and die maker from Demmer after thirty-seven years. Jim enjoyed working on his house, gardening, traveling and wintering in Florida. He faithfully served as an usher at St. Michael Parish and was known as Santa to his grandchildren, friends and the Grand Ledge community. Many people in Grand Ledge recognized Jim as he made his daily five mile walk.
He is survived by children, Debra (Dan) Szymanski, Chris (Scott) Vetter, Andrew (Kim), Eric (Mary), Matthew, Amy (Edwin) Kingston; grandchildren, Nick, Barbara and Joseph Szymanski, Wayne, Staci and Timothy Baker, Eddy, Cody and Susan Kingston; great grandchildren, Barry and Davis Szymanski, Emily Jones, Cheyenne, Bentley, Dakota, Hunter and Nolan Baker along with one great great grandchild on the way. He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara; son, Joseph and siblings, David Baker and Donna Shane.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, June 14, 2016, 11am at St. Michael Catholic Church, Grand Ledge by The Reverend Fr. James Eisele. Rite of Committal will follow at N. Eagle Cemetery with military honors. Visitation will be Monday from 4-8:00pm with a scripture service at 7:30pm at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. A memorial service will also be held from 2-6:00pm on July 10, 2016 at 45118 Geddes Rd., Canton, Michigan 48188.
Memorial contributions may be given to St. Michael Church, 345 Edwards Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837, National Kidney Foundation, 1169 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108 or the Memorial Honor Guard, Cole Briggs Post 48 American Legion, VFW Post 3293, 731 N. Clinton Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837.
Share your memories and condolences online at www.holihanatkin.com
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CLASS of 1947
Norma "Thomas" Barnes
August 22, 1929 - April 5, 2017
We'd like to inform everyone that Norma Barnes has decided that her work here is finished. She was born August 22, 1929 in Roxand Township, Eaton County, passed away peacefully at home Wednesday, April 5, 2017, and wants to let us all know she doesn't want anyone to make a fuss. Norma was always there for her family, which pretty much included everyone she knew. She was a farm girl and proud of the fact that she could keep up with any farmhand, never shied away from an honest day's work and enjoyed playing euchre. She was a great cook and when invited to dinner, always brought a "dish to pass". If there was a baby in the room, she would find a way to wrestle him or her away from mom for a little while. Norma was preceded by her parents, Lyle and Cassie Thomas and her sister Nelva "Sandy" Franklin. She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Harley, daughter Deb (Bill) Hansbarger, sons Randy and Greg, 8 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, sister Shirley Green, many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 13, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, with interment to follow at Union Cemetery, Oneida Township, Eaton County. Visitation will be held Wednesday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to the Ever Ready Club in memory of Norma Barnes.
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CLASS of 1947
Dale J. Benjamin, Jr.
January 19, 1930 - May 28, 2016
Dale Benjamin, Jr. Born January 19, 1930 died peacefully on May 28, 2016 from complications of a stroke at the Halquist Memorial Inpatient Hospice in Arlington, VA. Dale, and his wife Helen, were long-time residents of Delta Township and built and operated Benjamin Parking Lot Maintenance.
Dale served Eaton County for almost two decades as an elected official; first, serving on, and chairing, the County Board of Commissioners, and subsequently, as Eaton County Drain Commissioner. A lifelong Republican, Dale was Chairman of the Republican Party in Eaton County and enthusiastically campaigned with Republican Presidential Candidates John Connolly and, Gerald Ford, when he ran for re-election. Dale was a 32nd degree Mason and belonged to the Lansing Chamber of Commerce. Growing out of his upbringing as a farmer, Dale was a lifelong conservationist and chaired the Eaton County Parks and Recreation advisory board. Prior to his marriage in 1955, Dale served in the Michigan National Guard. Dale and Helen travelled extensively by motorhome and belonged to many motorhome clubs.
Dale was the youngest son of Dale Benjamin, Sr. and Evelyn Merry Benjamin. Dale was predeceased by his son, Thomas Benjamin, and is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Helen Irene Benjamin (nee Padgham) his daughter, Sharon Benjamin-Bothwell, Ph.D., son-in-law Robert Bothwell of Alexandria, Virginia and two grandsons, Matthew (and Trisha) Benjamin of Newaygo, Michigan and Marshall (Tina) Benjamin of Brohman, Michigan and many other loving family members including several great-grandchildren.
Family and friends may call after 10AM, Friday June 3, 2016 at Peters & Murray Funeral Home in Grand Ledge, MI with a funeral service to follow at 11AM and interment immediately after at Delta Center Cemetery. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com.
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CLASS of 1947
John Doane
April 12, 2017
Lowell, Michigan
At John's request no services were held. No other information was available at the time of his passing.
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CLASS of 1947
Virginia Elaine "Brunsman" Sablain
November 7, 1929 - January 24, 2016
Holt
Virginia Elaine “Brunsman” Sablain passed away on Sunday, January 24, 2016 at the age of 86.
Virginia was born on November 7, 1929 in Lansing, MI the daughter of Theoder and Catherine (Warner) Brunsman. She graduated valedictorian, from Grand Ledge High School class of 1947. She married Ronald Sablain on August 28, 1948. Virginia worked as a medical transcriptionist for Ingham Regional Medical Center, and Sparrow Hospital, retiring from both places. Most importantly Virginia was a full time pioneer servant for Jehovah’s Witnesses for over 30 years. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and grandson, Jascha Adamski.
Surviving are her daughters, Janet (Jim) Adamski, Nancy (Michael) Ayers, Rhonda (Mark) Nourse, Mary (Timothy) Sherwood; grandchildren, Jade Adamski, Jabrina Adamski, Josiah Adamski, Janell Adamski, Jasmine (Joseph) Holloway, Jalene (Christopher) Ivins, Rachel Hewitt, Steven Ayers, Brent Ayers, Angela Mcclanahan, Brandon Rigotti, Marla Becker, Dania Nourse; and many great grandchildren; and sisters, Carol (Paul) Schorendorff, and Ruth Donahue-Beigle.
Funeral services were held on Friday, January 29, 2015 at Skinner Funeral Home, Lansing Chapel. The family received friends at the funeral home on Thursday. For those desiring memorial contributions may be made to Jehovah’s Witnesses.
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CLASS of 1948
Phylis "Parsons" Willis
June 28, 1930 - October 3, 2016
Marshall
Phylis J. Willis, age 86, of Marshall, MI, passed away Monday, October 3, 2016 surrounded by her loving family. Phylis was born to the late Emory and Lena (Challender) Parsons in Grand Ledge, MI on June 28, 1930.
Phylis was raised in Grand Ledge, MI and attended Grand Ledge High School. At a young age she lost her father, and being the oldest she help raise her siblings. She met Howard Willis through mutual friends and they were married at his Uncle John Raymond's house in Charlotte, MI on December 23, 1948 in front of their Christmas tree. Phylis farmed alongside her husband from 1950 and continued for many years, until becoming a homemaker from then on. They milked 200 dairy cows, raised pigs, beef cows, and had an excellent hay business. Phylis also raised chickens and sold the eggs. In their youth, they joined the Young Farmer's Group. Phylis always looked forward to the meetings where they enjoyed playing cards, telling stories, and sharing many laughs. She was also a former president and member of the Lee Hustler's Extension Group. They enjoyed dancing at dance halls and were even members of a modern square dancing group. Phylis was excellent at baking and cooking, she was always trying new recipes and was known for her apple pie. She enjoyed collecting antiques; especially glass baskets. They even had a special wall built with shelves to display all of them. Phylis loved birds, flowers and humming birds. Most of all she loved her family.
Left to cherish her memory is her loving husband, of 67 years, Howard Willis; daughter, Mary Mogg; son, Howard R. Willis; granddaughter, Lauren Shuler; great-grandson, Matthew Shuler; sisters, Wilma Roth, Loretta Ball; brother, Ronald (Betty) Parsons; sister-in-law, Myla Layton; several nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and her cat Patches. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Family received friends at the Kempf Family Funeral Home-Marshall Chapel on Thursday, October 6, 2016. Funeral services took place Friday, October 7, 2016 at the funeral home with lay leader Tom Raymond from Gresham United Methodist Church officiating. A luncheon was held immediately following the service. Interment was held at Bosworth Cemetery in Olivet, MI after the luncheon. Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Heart & Stroke Association.
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CLASS of 1949
Frances "Tegels" Baker
January 18, 1931 - October 8, 2016
Frances J. Baker of Grand Ledge passed away October 8, 2016. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend and will be greatly missed. Fran was born January 18, 1931 in Marshall, Minnesota to the late William L. and Catherine E. (Hovland) Tegels.
Fran graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1949, was a longtime faithful member of St. Michael Parish and retired from the State of Michigan Department of Public Health. She enjoyed traveling, reading and music.
She is survived by children, Mary Jo (Gary) Kast, Jean Chapmen, Charles (Rochelle) Baker and Sara Caswell; 8 grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Anne Baker; siblings, Vivian (Norman) Kemp and Daniel (Mary Sue) Tegels. Fran was preceded in death by husband, Anthony F.; son, Peter; son-in-law, Joe Chapman; siblings, Katherine Kucsulain, Rita, Vincent and Dennis Tegels.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, October 13, 2016, 11 a.m. at St. Michael Catholic Church, Grand Ledge by The Reverend Fr. James Eisele. Rite of Committal will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday from 2-4 and 6-8 with a Rosary at 7:30 p.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
Memorial contributions may be given to Blessings in a Backpack Grand Ledge, P.O. Box 162, Grand Ledge Michigan 48837 or Sparrow Foundation, Hospice House of Mid-Michigan, 1110 E. Michigan Avenue, P.O. Box 30480, Lansing, Michigan 48909.
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CLASS of 1949
Jack L. Hankins
June 22, 1931 - May 25, 2016
Jack L. Hankins of Grand Ledge passed away May 25, 2016. Jack was born June 22, 1931 in Grand Rapids, Michigan to the late Jack and Ruby (White) Hankins. He attended Grand Ledge High School and was a veteran who served in the U.S. Navy on the USS Coral Sea during the Korean War. Jack served the majority of his career in law enforcement working for both Eaton and Jackson Co. Sheriff’s Departments and also the Michigan Department of Corrections. He was an avid deer hunter and volunteered with food donations for area seniors.
Jack is survived by siblings, Marjorie Darnell, Dan (Jayne) and David (Kathy) along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by siblings, Thomas, Joyce Cypher, Irene Plunkett and Mary Hankins.
A funeral service was held Saturday, May 28, 2016, 9:30 am at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Interment with military honors followed at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation Friday from 6-8:00pm with a Rosary at 7:30pm.
Memorial contributions may be given to Swedes Restaurant Food Donation Program, 89 W. Grand Ledge Highway, Mulliken, Michigan 48861.
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CLASS of 1949
Johanna "Abbruzzese" Parshall
January 29, 1932 - September 26, 2016
Johanna L. Parshall, 84, passed away September 26, 2016, in Lansing, MI. She was born January 29, 1932 in Ionia, MI, daughter of Joseph and Florence (Tully) Abbruzzese. Jo was a former office manager and tax preparer; also former owner of Myja’s Gray Wolf Inn in Grand Ledge.
She enjoyed playing in pool leagues with her son for over 30 years; also hunting, and cooking with her granddaughter Erin. Jo is survived by her son Marc “Bud” (Mindy) Parshall, granddaughter Erin Parshall and sister Jackie Bratschi. She was predeceased by her parents, son Michael, five brothers and two sisters.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, September 30, 2016 – 11:00 am at St. Michael Catholic Church, 345 Edwards St., Grand Ledge, with Rev. Fr. James Eisele as celebrant. Interment will follow at Meadowbrook Cemetery, Mulliken. Visitation will be held Thursday from 5-7 pm at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to GLEAP or Lansing SCI (Youth Hunt).
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CLASS of 1950
Robert T. Edgar
July 24, 1932 - March 28, 2016
Kalamazoo
Robert T. Edgar, of Kalamazoo, age 83, died March 28, 2016 at his home. He was born July 24, 1932 in Grand Ledge, the son of James and Edith (Adams) Edgar. Bob worked the sidelines at MSU Football games for 30 years, and for 28 years for the State of Michigan as a property manager.
Preceded in death by his wife Allyn "Lyn" Edgar in 2008, 2 sons: Kevin and Michael and by 5 siblings: Roberta, Edith, James, Jake and Virginia. Surviving are 5 children: Victoria (Karl) Erickson, Tim Edgar, Todd Edgar, John Edgar and Robert (Connie) Edgar; 10 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Family and friends shared food and drinks on Wednesday at the Life Story Funeral Home, Betzler-Kalamazoo, 6080 Stadium Drive; 269-375-2900. Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Thursday 10:30 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church followed by lunch in the church hall.
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CLASS of 1950
Onalee Marie "Heath" Kelton
December 1, 1931 - September 30, 2016
Onalee Marie Kelton of Grand Ledge passed away September 30, 2016. Marie was born on the farm in Eagle, Michigan on December 1, 1931 to the late Ellsworth and Beatrice (Gilbert) Heath. She graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1950, was a homemaker and went on to work numerous jobs throughout her life. Marie enjoyed and loved animals, especially cats.
Marie is survived by daughter, Stephany (Douglas) Elliott; grandchildren, Alyssa (Ron) Storms and Kevin (Casey) Snyder; great grandchildren, June Synder ,Mason, Skyler and Emily Storms; siblings, Ellen Baker, Carolyn (Charles) Volk and Robert Heath. Marie was preceded in death by son, Craig Stoicoff.
A graveside service was held Monday, October 3, 2016, 2 p.m. at N. Eagle Cemetery, Eagle twp., Clinton County, Michigan with Pastor Phillip McKinney of Believers Church, officiating. Memorial contributions can be given to the Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 W. Grand River Avenue, Lansing, Michigan 48906. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
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CLASS of 1950
Marilyn "Dills" Lyons
August 9, 1932 - February 2, 2017
Muskegon
Marilyn Audrey (Dills) Lyons, age 84, of Muskegon, MI passed away on Thursday February 2, 2017 at Trillium Woods Hospice in Bryon Center, MI. Marilyn was born in Lansing, MI, attended Grand Ledge High School and graduated from GRSBM where she also met her future husband, Charles Lyons. She and Charles (Chuck) married in 1955 and settled in Lansing where Marilyn was a homemaker raising five children before taking on the role of an elementary school teacher's aide at Bingham Street School, where all of her children attended. She loved nature, books, music ~ esp songs of faith, and enjoyed handcrafting her own cards. Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband, Charles F. Lyons; daughter, A. Renee Lyons, and sister, Gayla Schier. She is survived by her brother, Paul (Lois) Dills; daughters, Karie (Jim) Brunk and Sarah (Scott) Lingenfelter; sons, Evan (Noel) Lyons and Nathan (Jennifer) Lyons; grandsons, James and Alex Brunk, Jacob and Andrew Lyons, and Samuel Mace.
According to her wishes, Marilyn will be cremated; a memorial service will be held at a later date. Marilyn will be remembered for her heartfelt faith over the course of a life rich with experience, many lasting friendships, and a deep love for her children and grandchildren.
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CLASS of 1951
Carol "Reedy" Brookman
April 24, 1934 - December 10, 2016
Newaygo
Carol “Reedy” Brookman, age 82, of Newaygo passed away on Saturday, December 10, 2016, at Transitional Health Services in Fremont. Carol was born on April 24, 1934, in Lansing to Abraham and Alice (Mooney) Reedy. Carol was a graduate of Grand Ledge High School and the Grand Rapids School of Bible and Music where she met and married her husband, Stanley Ross Brookman on June 25, 1954, in Grand Rapids. Carol served for seven years at the missionary radio station ELWA in Monrovia, Liberia. For much of her life, Carol was a writer, publishing articles, children’s stories, Bible Club Lessons, and many “On Croton Pond” and “Healing Path” columns in the Fremont Times Indicator.
Carol is survived by her children, Karen Lee (Jeff) Conolly of Hillsdale, Michigan, and Paul Stanley Brookman of Newaygo; grandchildren, Jennifer (Tim) Ambrose, Julie (Chris) Maurer, Jeffrey (Kimberlee) Conolly, Gabe (Jill) Hulvey, and Robin Williams; several great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Stan in 2001; brother, Howard Reedy; and daughter-in-law, Dorothy Brookman in 2015.
Funeral services were held on Friday, December 16, 2016, at the Fremont Christian Church – Disciples of Christ with Pastor David Dickinson officiating. Interment was in Croton Cemetery.
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CLASS of 1951
Marilyn "Maier" Smith
June 23, 1933 - June 4, 2016
Marilyn M. Smith, 82, of Grand Ledge, MI passed away June 4, 2016. She was born June 23, 1933 in Watertown Township, MI, daughter of the late Lawrence and Ruth (Garlock) Maier. A graduate of Western Michigan University, she taught kindergarten in the Grand Ledge school district for 33 years.
Marilyn passionately pursued the preservation and promotion of Grand Ledge as the founding and sole president of Ledge Craft Lane, and noted member and advocate of the Historical Society, Opera House Authority, Grand Ledge Home Tour, and Color Cruise. Marilyn cared deeply about the Grand Ledge community, and she will be greatly missed by all. She was also a lifelong member of the Emanuel First Lutheran Church, Lansing. She enjoyed spending time with her family at their cottage in northern Michigan and attending Michigan State football games for 48 years, along with additional events on the MSU campus.
Marilyn is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, Norman, and many nieces and nephews and their children. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Arlene Brinkey and Loraine Kelsey.
A funeral service will be held Wednesday, June 8, 2016 at 11:00 A.M. at the Emanuel First Lutheran Church, 1001 N. Capitol Ave., Lansing, MI 48906, with Pastor Paul Lindloff as officiant. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. Visitation will be held Tuesday, June 7 from 2¬-4 and 6¬-8 P.M. at the Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice House of Mid-¬Michigan or Emanuel First Lutheran Church. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com.
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CLASS of 1952
Meritta "Bloom" Huver
July 18, 1934 - February 13, 2017
Meritta “Bloom” Huver, 82, born July 18, 1934, went home to the Lord on February 13, 2017. Meritta was a graduate of Grand Ledge High School, Class of 1952; member of St. Michael Catholic Church, where she enjoyed singing in the choir for many years; former member of the Sweet Adeline’s and Lioness Club, and an avid bowler.
Meritta is survived by her eight sons: James, William (Nancy), Michael (Darlene), Joseph (Sindy), John, Richard, David, and Daniel; four daughters: Loritta (Gary) Richey, Frances Martinez, Teresa (Jerry) Ballard, and Pamela (David) Shakespeare; 29 grandchildren, and 17 great grandchildren; three brothers-in-law: Norman, Thomas and Lyle Huver; four sisters-in-law: Agnes Cranson, Marie Atwell, Helen Huver, and Carol Huver. She was predeceased by her husband of 49 years, Leo F. Huver in 2001.
Funeral Mass will be held Friday, February 17, 2017 – 11:00 a.m. at St. Michael Catholic Church, 345 Edwards St., Grand Ledge, with Rev. Fr. James Eisele as celebrant. Rite of Committal will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. Visitation will be held at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, Thursday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.,with a liturgy service and rosary beginning at 7:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice House of Mid-Michigan or St. Michael Catholic Church.
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CLASS of 1952
Lyle L. Johnson
July 15, 1933 - September 5, 2016
San Antonio, TX
Lyle L. Johnson, passed away September 5, 2016 at the age of 83. Lyle was born July 15, 1933 in Ithaca, MI to Leonard and Verna (Sellon) Johnson. Lyle was a graduate of Grand Ledge High School in 1952. He served in the Army during the Korean War. He married Dorothy Henrietta Bishop December 14, 1957.
He was very dependable, a hard worker, big tease and was of the old school and to the point. He was a member of Lighthouse Baptist Church in San Antonio, TX.
He was preceded in death by his parents. Surviving is his wife, Dorothy; daughter, Deborah Johnson; brother, Harold Johnson; sisters, Linda Kloepfer and Cheryl Johnson and several nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held Tuesday, September 13, 2016, 11:00 a.m. at East Lawn Memory Gardens, 2400 Bennett Road, Okemos, MI.
In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions in memory of Lyle to the Alzheimer's Association , 225 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60601.,
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CLASS of 1952
Jean "Ladd" Lonsberry
December 26, 1933 - October 17, 2016
Jean E. Lonsberry, loving mother and grandmother passed away October 17, 2016 at the age of 82. She was born December 26, 1933 in Lansing, MI, daughter of Porter and Marjorie (Chriss) Ladd. Jean was a graduate of Grand Ledge High School and a former florist. She was an avid bowler; enjoyed horseback riding all her life; motorcycling with her husband, Ed and dancing along with him and his dance band; also cherished her friends at StoryPoint of Grand Ledge. She enjoyed boating the Great Lakes, especially her favorite spot…Point Betsy, and her greatest joy was spending time with her family at the family cottage on Lake Missaukee.
Survivors include her son Scott (Judy) Lonsberry, daughters Kim (Richard) Whitacre and Sherry (Thomas) Graham; 6 grandchildren: Michael (Allison) and Matthew Lonsberry, Taylor and Ryan Whitacre, Nicole and Kelsey Graham, brother-in-law James Lonsberry, and sister-in-law Kathy Turner. She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Edward, brother Arnold Ladd, sisters-in-law Nola Lonsberry and Joyce Ladd.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 20, 2016 – 2:00 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, with interment to follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home. The family thanks the girls at StoryPoint for their friendships and caring hearts for Jean. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Heartland Hospice.
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CLASS of 1953
Glenn M. Smith, Jr.
June 8, 2015
Petoskey
Glenn M. Smith Jr., 80, of Petoskey and Rotonda, FL, passed away Monday, June 8, 2015.
Glenn was born and raised in Grand Ledge, Mich., He then received his degree from the General Motors Institute and had a long career at Oldsmobile and Pontiac Motor Divisions in the sales area.
Glenn enjoyed his time on Walloon Lake with his family and friends. He loved traveling and was an avid sports fan. He spent many, many days playing his favorite golf courses.
He was loved by all.
Glenn is survived by his wife, Nell Oakley-Smith; his children, Debbie (Bob) Maples of Colorado, Greg (John Gehringer) Smith of Maryland, Gary (Brenda) Smith of East Lansing and Robert Oakley of California; his grandchildren, Heather, Jason, Ian, Grey, Gage, William and Eliza; great-grandchildren, Jasik, Adalei, Aksel and Ryder; and his sisters, Mary Ann (Don) Garlock of Grand Ledge and Marlene (John) Saum of Florida.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Glen and Thursa Smith; and sisters, Donna and Bonna Smith.
A gathering to share the joys of Glenn's life will be held at a later date in Petoskey.
Those wishing to remember Glenn with a charitable contribution are asked to consider the Little Traverse Bay Humane Society.
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CLASS of 1953
Gary J. Hershoren
April 10, 2017
Farmington, MI
Gary J. Hershoren, a resident of Farmington, died on April 10th, 2017 at the age of 82. Funeral services arranged by The Dorfman Chapel.
Location of Service: The Dorfman Chapel- main chapel (map to our Chapel)
Date of Service: Friday April 14th, 2017
Time of Service: 10:00AM
Broadcast of Service: A live broadcast of the service will be broadcasted on Friday April 14th, 2017 at 10:00AM. Please check back at that time.
Interment at: None: Just a memorial service will be held
Officiant: Rabbi Joshua Bennett
Shiva Information: The family will be gathering through Saturday evening at the residence of Ilene Harris 7160 Suncrest West Bloomfield, MI 48322 Phone: 248-432-7417
No religious services will be held.
Charitable contributions to:
Yad Ezra
2850 W. 11 Mile Rd.
Berkley, MI 48072
Phone: (248) 548-3663 or
Animal Aid Foundation- Email [email protected] Address P.O. Box 70033, Rochester Road, Rochester Hills, Michigan 48307 or A charity of one's choice.
Family Members: Beloved companion of Ilene Harris. Dear father of Mark (Deborah Donovan) Hershoren and Joel (Kathleen Ann Arnold) Hershoren. Dearest brother of Beverly (Vic) Hauter. Also remembered by many loving nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.
http://www.thedorfmanchapel.com/deceasedinfoR.php?rownum=3533
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CLASS of 1954
Peggy Joan "Reed" Baldwin
January 23, 1936 - January 24, 2017
Peggy Joan Baldwin, loving mother, grandmother, sister and dear friend of many passed away at home on January 24, 2017. She was born January 23, 1936 in Lansing, MI, daughter to Lawrence and Ethel (Wilson) Reed. Peggy was a daycare provider for many years. After her late husband, Richard’s retirement, she enjoyed six months of the year in Punta Gorda, Florida and also enjoyed 30 years at their cottage on Gun Lake. Peggy was very giving; kind, compassionate and caring soul, always putting others before herself. She enjoyed playing the piano and organ; above all loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Survivors include her daughters: Cheryle (Randy) Kemp, Penny Bensinger, Brenda Baldwin and Lori Kidd; seven grandchildren, nine great grandchildren; sister Shirley Pierce; many loved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 60 years, Richard ‘Dick’ in 2014, grandson Cole Brown, son-in-law Tim Bensinger, three sisters and two brothers.
Funeral services will be held Friday, January 27, 2017 – 12:00 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Thursday 4-8 p.m. and also one hour prior to service time. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society or Compassus Hospice & Palliative Care.
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CLASS of 1955
John W. Frank
April 5, 1937 - November 20, 2016
John W. Frank, 79, of Charlotte, died November 20, 2016 after a lengthy illness. John was born on April 5, 1937 in Charlotte, the son of Oscar and Helen (Worden) Frank. He was a Grand Ledge High School graduate and had served his country in the United States Marine Corp. On March 4, 1961, he married Collette Rose, daughter of Harold and Nancy (Farrier) Rose. He retired after 32 years at the GM-Oldsmobile plant in Lansing, starting out working on the engine block floor and retiring as a supervisor there. John loved cars, music, woodworking, and having coffee with friends at Willie’s Restaurant.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Jamie; and sister, Darlene Briskie.
John is survived by his wife of 55 years, Collette; son, Jeffrey (Linda) Frank; daughter, Marcie Julson; and four grandsons.
Services will be held Monday, November 28, 2016 at 11 a.m. at Burkhead-Green Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Pastor John Bailey officiating. Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 27, 2016, from 3 to 5 p.m. Interment will be in Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte.
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CLASS of 1955
Hilda "Griese" Goetzka
May 22, 1937 - January 1, 2017
Goetzka, Hilda M. Hilda M. Goetzka, age 79, went to her Lord on January 1, 2017. She was born May 22, 1937 to Frank and Flora Griese. She was baptized as an infant and confirmed into her faith in 1950. She graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1955. She then attended Henry Ford Nursing School in Detroit from 1955 -1958 where she received her RN degree. After her graduation, she continued to work there for 6 months. Hilda met her future husband Donald Goetzka in 1955 while attending her home church, Immanuel Lutheran of Grand Ledge. They married in 1959 and moved to Grand Rapids and then settled in Sparta where they started their family. Hilda was a registered nurse for many years eventually serving as director of nursing for Luther Home for 12 years. She continued her career into her seventies performing vaccinations for the Kent County Health Department. She learned how to play the piano at age 4 from her mother who played organ for the church and taught music. Hilda was steadfast in her Christian faith and used her musical talent as church organist for 47 years at Mamrelund Lutheran Church of Kent City. Hilda, her sister Lucille, and her mother Flora would all be church organists for their own respective churches. Her mother played organ at Immanuel Lutheran in Grand Ledge for 55 yrs. Her sister played organ at Calvary Lutheran in Lansing for 25 years until her death. Hilda's family had a long history of serving the church starting with her great-grandfather Pastor John Klindworth who immigrated from Germany and established St. Matthews Lutheran church in Galena, Il. where he presided for 50 years. Both of his sons became pastors, one of which was Hilda's grandfather, Gustave Klindworth. She was preceded in death by her Father, Mother, Sister Lucille, and daughter Susan, who passed away suddenly Nov. 14th, 1967 at the age of 7 years old. She will be deeply missed by her loving husband of 57 years, Donald; her three children; David (Tsering), John (Julia), James (Margo) and five grandchildren; Matt, Grace, Katja, Jaegar and Fiona.
Funeral services were held on Wednesday January 4, 2017 Mamrelund Lutheran Church located at 4085 Lutheran Church Rd, Kent City, MI 49330. Visitations was on Tuesday January 3, 2017 Hessel-Cheslek Funeral Home in Sparta . Any donations as a memorial to Hilda Goetzka can be sent to the Helping Hands Fund in care of Mamrelund Lutheran Church.
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CLASS of 1955
Dan E. Hankins
1937 - December 21, 2016
God called home one of his most faithful and loving Servants, Dan E. Hankins. A graduate of Grand Ledge High School in 1955, Dan went on to serve his country in the Marine Corps (1957 1959). Upon returning, Dan found a passion for the law, first as a Sherriff's deputy with Eaton County and then with the Michigan State University Department of Public Safety (1960 1969), where he founded the Tri-county metro squad. Dan took his passion for law one step further by attending Detroit College of Law (1969 1972) where he was the recipient of the Ben Probe Memorial Moot Court Competition award. While an attorney, Dan specialized in labor law and worked tirelessly to advocate for the unions of the hardest workers in the state until his retirement in 2014. In 2007, Dan felt a new calling--to serve the people of his community who needed help the most. Dan used his faith in God to found Manna's Market, a food, clothing bank and baby pantry which grew from Dan buying all the food himself, to serving an average of 800 people per month as a United Way charitable partner. Dan's belief in God was the foundation for which he lived his life, built his family, guided his marriage and propelled him to serve others using all of his talents. Dan was always there to encourage, support, and offer his hand to walk with you when you needed him the most and had a unique love of animals. Dan has been reunited in heaven with his Mother and Father, Jack and Ruby (White) Hankins; his brothers Jack and Thomas; his sisters Joyce (Ron-deceased) Cypher and Irene (Phil- deceased) Plunkett; his nephew, Chad Hankins; and father-in-law, Roger Flanigan. He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Jayne (Flanigan) Hankins, loving father of Elizabeth (Trish) Hankins and Jessica (Paul) Melson, beloved Papa to Audrey and Maura Melson, dear brother to Marjorie (Jim-deceased) Darnell and David (Kathy) Hankins, and his mother-in-law Janice Flanigan. He was a husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was the one that we all could count on. He will be profoundly missed by his family and his community, but we all take comfort in knowing that Dan had answered every call from us and has now answered his final call, the call home from his Lord. May we honor his memory by continuing his legacy of service to others in the name of Christ. God be with you till we meet again.
Visitation was held on Tuesday, December 27 at the Koops Funeral Chapel in Lake Odessa with the Rosary. His celebration of life was held at the Lakewood United Methodist Church at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 28, officiated by Randall Bertrand, Pastor of the Woodgrove Brethren Christian Parish, and John Waite, Assistant Pastor of the Lakewood United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family asks you consider honoring his memory by contributing to Manna's Market, PO Box 18, Woodland, MI 48897.
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CLASS of 1955
Richard Charles Northrup
December 23, 1936 - February 24, 2017
East Lansing
Richard Charles Northrup, age 80 of East Lansing, was born December 23, 1936, and passed away February 24, 2017.
Visitation will be Friday, March 17, 2017, from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. and from 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 1730 East Grand River Avenue, East Lansing, Michigan.
The Funeral Service will be held Saturday, March 18, 2017, at 3:00 pm at the Okemos Community Church, 4734 Okemos Road, Okemos, Michigan.
Arrangements under the direction of Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home, East Lansing, MI.
NO OTHER INFORMATION WAS AVAILABLE AT THE TIME OF THIS POSTING.
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CLASS of 1956
Barbara "Baker" Armstrong
August 12, 1938 — April 25, 2017
The Armstrong Family would like to announce that Barbara Anne (Baker) Armstrong, their beloved mother, has passed through the heavenly gates of Glory from her daughter’s home in Lansing, Michigan. Her brother Steven, several children, grandchildren, and former husband of 30+ years Douglas D. "Pink" Armstrong were at her side. Barb embarked on her glorious journey at 6:06 pm on the 25th of April 2017, and a graveside service will be held at Oakwood Cemetery in Grand Ledge, MI on Monday, the 1st of May at 11:00 am.
Barb was born in Grand Ledge, MI on August 12, 1938 to Elmer F. and Dorothea "Dorothy" (Bohr) Baker. She is survived by four brothers Richard (Dick) Baker of Enolia, MO; Harry Baker of Grand Ledge, MI; Daniel Baker of Lake City, MI; and Steven Baker of Lansing, MI.
Barb's greatest achievement is being the proud mother of nine children, Eric J. (Akiko) Armstrong stationed in Wiesbaden, Germany; Edward D. (Lot) Armstrong of Lansing, MI; Anne T. (Carl) Cranson of Grand Ledge, MI; Beth L. Armstrong of Lansing, MI; Aaron M. Armstrong of Lewistown, MT; Brenna A. Armstrong (pre-deceased 1972); Brent T. Armstrong of Three Forks, MT; Douglas E. Armstrong of Bozeman, MT; and Noah A. Armstrong (pre-deceased 1976). She has also basked heavily within the love and joy of her 13 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.
Her love of babies and children is evident by the many years she spent assisting young women with their pregnancies while working at Hannah's House, Inc. Her family asks that donations in Barbara's name be sent to Hannah's House (www.Hannahshouselansing.org) to continue their work helping young adults and their babies through difficult times.
The Armstrong family also wishes to send a special Thank You to the staff of Senior Community Care of Michigan PACE for their professional medical and in-home End of Life assistance provided during this sensitive period. Their level of experience, hard work and humorous attitude made this transition a smooth experience for both Barb and her entire family. Immediately following the graveside service there will be a reception at the Log Jam in Grand Ledge. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
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CLASS of 1956
Gary J. Brunette
January 12, 1938 - March 29, 2017
Gary J. Brunette of Grand Ledge went to be with the Lord March 29, 2017 after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Gary was born January 12, 1938 in Alpena, Michigan and was one of twelve children born to the late Russell and Lorina (Richard) Brunette. Gary graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1956 and went on to serve his country in the United State Marine Corps. He was a Golden Gloves Boxer, an avid golfer and huge MSU fan. He also enjoyed reading God’s word and playing the guitar where his first performance was playing in the high school auditorium. Gary retired from Michigan State University as a print press operator.
He is survived by children, Amy (Robert) Crawford, Karen (Timothy) Backus, Kelly (Dean) Austin, Gary Jr. (Alice) , Kristina (James) Vernon, Kevin (Amy) and Jodi (Cesar Guzman) Brunette; 20 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; siblings, Charles (JoAnne), Roger (Pauline), John (Linda), Mary Ann (Floyd) Reid, Danny (Mercedes) and Greg (Leona). Gary was preceded in death by wife, Dianne; siblings, Carol O’Boyle, Mary Lou, Kenneth, Richard and Donald Brunette.
A funeral service will be held Thursday, April 6, 2017, 11 a.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery with military honors. Visitation will be Wednesday from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be given to The National Parkinson Foundation, 1501 NW 9th Avenue/Bob Hope Road, Miami, Florida 33136 or Great Lakes Caring Hospice, 900 Cooper Street, Jackson, Michigan 49202.
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CLASS of 1956
Stephen Frederick Graszler
November 28, 1937 - November 2, 2016
Stephen Frederick Graszler of Grand Ledge passed away November 2, 2016, while surrounded by his loving family. Steve was born in Portland, Michigan on November 28, 1937 to the late Francis Harold and Helen Elizabeth (Humphrey) Graszler. He was a long time member of the Grand Ledge community and a graduate of Grand Ledge High School in 1956. Steve served in the Michigan Army National Guard in Grand Ledge and worked for Servomation for over 20 years.
Steve has always had a great passion for music, listening and performing. He was a vocalist and guitarist for the “Stardusters” band for many years. When he retired, he opened up the “50’s and Such” malt shop in a couple of different locations in Grand Ledge. In doing so, he was not only able to share his talents as an entertainer, but help others develop their skills as well. Steve’s priority was his family. He was very fortunate to have also acquired a community family and many special friendships along life’s path throuagh his many community involvements including Color Cruise, Island Art Fair and Mudge’s Follies. For these activities and others, he will surely be missed.
His love of music has been passed down to his family. Memories of Steve’s hobbies of motorcycles, admiration of classic cars, photography, family camping and boating, will be cherished as well.
Steve was an earlier parishioner of St Michael Church where he and his wife, Patricia G (Jenerou) Graszler were married over 56 years ago. He is also survived by his four children, DeAnna L. (Rick) Sheren, Stephanie G. Beals, Stephen J. (Carolyn) Graszler, and Bethany A. (Jack) Pahl; seven grandchildren, Lelia Thomas, Stephen Sheren, Stacey Rice, Phil Graszler, Shelbey Sheren, Emma Pahl, and Olivia Pahl; he was blessed with seven great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sister, Mary (Dan) Backus. Steve was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Lawrence H. Graszler.
A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 8, 2016, 1:00 PM at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, with the Reverend Fr. James Eisele officiating. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitations will be on Monday from 4:00 - 8:00 pm and Tuesday noon to 1:00 PM, both at the funeral home. There will be a luncheon held at St Michael Church Parish Hall after the burial.
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CLASS of 1956
Ronald G. Peterson
August 6, 1938 - April 12, 2016
Little River, South Carolina
Ronald G. Petersen, 77, of Little River, passed away Tuesday, April 12, 2016, at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, GA., due to complications following surgery. He was born August 6 1938, in Lansing, Michigan, to Albert Frank Petersen and Esther Georgia Monro.
He graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1956, and Western Michigan University in 1960. Ron was very active on campus, President of his fraternity, Delta Chi, a member of the Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society, the ROTC, and President of The Men's Union Board of Student Government.
In 1962 he served as a Lieutenant Commander with Army Intelligence and Security as in Intelligence Research Officer during the Korean Conflict. He was decorated and honorably discharged from active duty in 1964.
Ron owned and operated several successful automotive dealerships in Canton, Ohio. His persistence and his deeply held work ethic was the basis of his success. He was a voracious military and history buff and lived by the Nietzche's quote: "That which does not kill us, makes us stronger." He felt strongly about mastering your fears and because he was afraid of heights and flying he obtained his pilot's license, he also obtained more advanced licenses which allowed him to fly by instruments and in twin-engine aircraft. Ron sold his dealerships and moved to Little River in 1992 where he decided to become a real estate developer and finished completion of Lightkeepers Village and the Marina. He owned and operated Waterway Properties and Waterway Business Center. He served on the Board of Directors of the Little River Chamber and was a Paul Harris Fellow with the North Myrtle Beach Rotary. He also served on the board of several local HOA's. He enjoyed piloting his own plane, sailing on the Great Lakes and fishing in the King Mackerel tournaments on the Atlantic. He was an advanced horseman and competed in dressage and cross-country events. He enjoyed woodworking, riding his Harley and spending time with his grandchildren. Ron was a lifelong, diehard fan of University of Michigan football, the Detroit Lions and the Detroit Tigers.
Ron is survived by his daughter, Julie Beth Petersen (Stephen Babik) of Aiken, SC; his son Eric Geoffrey (Ora) Petersen and Granddaughter Alma, of Anacortes, WA; and a daughter Kristen L Boulter, of Little River as well as two Grandsons, Carson and Holden Boulter. He is also survived by his brother Jim (Brenda) Clark of Okemos, Michigan; sisters Nancy Petersen and Janet (Phil) Hobbs of Tucson, Arizona.
He was preceded in death by his parents and Grandson Cameron J Boulter.
A "Celebration of Life" service will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family has asked that donations be made to the North Myrtle Beach Humane Society.
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CLASS of 1957
Gerald K. Berner
March 16, 2017
Gerald K. Berner, 77 of Nashville, Arkansas passed away on Thursday, March 16, 2017 in Nashville, Arkansas. He was born on October 11, 1939 the son of the late Karl and Orma Thornbury Berner.
Mr. Berner was a Major in the United States Air Force, a member of the Howard Emergency Amateur Radio Club. He attended the First United Methodist Church in Nashville, and truly loved remote control airplanes.
Survivors include his wife Claudia Hayhurst Berner, children and spouses Kris (Don) Hagwell, Kevin (Kimmie) Berner, Ellen (Steven) Pitt, Tabitha McMickle, Cynthia (Will) Jackson. Eleven grandsons Sean Hagwell, Cory Hagwell, William Berner, Alex Berner, Justin Russell, Charles Frantz, Robert Frantz, Chesli Jackson, Scott Shamrock, Brandon Shamrock, Alec Jackson. Six granddaughters Miranda Berner, Kayla Pitt, Lacy Pitt, Stephanie Dusza, Angela Rowe, and Jessica Moore. Three great-granddaughters Mylie Hagwell, Kynadie Shamrock, and Kinsley Simmons. As well as three brothers James (Sharon) Berner, Richard Berner, and Roger Berner.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Benevolence Fund at the First United Methodist Church in Nashville.
Cremation services are under the direction of Latimer Funeral Home in Nashville.
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CLASS of 1957
Jerolyn "VanderMoere" Johnson
January 2, 2017
Jerolyn “VanderMoere “ Johnson, age 77, of Bishop, Georgia passed away on January 2nd.
Survivors include her husband, Gordon Johnson; daughter Janice Johnson Madden; Sons Christopher Johnson and Ian Johnson; her brother Lawrence VanderMoere, nine grandchildren, other relatives and friends.
A celebration of her life will occur in Salisbury, Connecticut in the Spring of 2017.
Contributions may be made in her memory to the Alzheimer's Association (alz.org) or Highland Hills Memory Care of St. Mary's Hospital in Athens, Georgia. Lord and Stephens, West is in charge of arrangements.
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CLASS of 1957
Mary Alyce "Ansley" Strieter
December 29, 1939 - September 19, 2016
Indian River, MI
Mary Alyce “Ansley” Strieter, artist, counselor, wife, mother, grandmother and forever true friend passed away blissfully on September 19, 2016 at the Hiland Cottage of Hospice of Little Traverse Bay in Petoskey. She was born December 29, 1939 in Lansing, Michigan to Dorothy (Bester) of Harbor Springs, Michigan and Cecil Ansley of Reading, Ohio. Mary grew up on a 40 acre farm near Wacusta, Michigan and graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1957. Then in 1959, she met the love of her life and best friend, beloved husband Keith J. Strieter and married in 1960 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Lansing, Michigan. Due to Mary’s husband career at General Motors the family was able to reside in Antwerp Belgium for a period of time then returned to the states and resided in Shelby Township, Michigan till 1990, when Keith retired. They then spent time in Kansas City, Missouri before retiring in Harbor Springs Michigan.
Mary is the proud mother of four children, Johann Christ 1961, Teresa Ann 1964, Mary Louise 1967, and Susanne Elizabeth who was nurtured in at age 17 in 1986.
Mary Alyce attended college later in life and graduated Magna Cum Laude in 1981 with a Bachelors in Religious Education and a minor in psychology from St. Mary’s College in Orchard Lake, Michigan. She then worked in religious education for the Archdiocese of Detroit. She returned to college in 1987 and acquired a Master of Arts degree in guidance and counselling from Oakland University in 1989. She worked as a professional licensed counselor working in substance abuse inpatient and then moved to Harbor Springs, Michigan and worked at Northern Michigan Community Mental Health where she learned she had a gift for positively impacting troubled children. Mary retired in 2002.
Throughout her life, Mary was a gifted artist. She was extremely creative and talented with her sewing, knitting, crocheting, painting, quilting and jewelry making. Creating some of the most beautiful, blankets, sweaters, gloves, scarves and hats. Her quilts and paintings will be treasured family heirlooms for at least the next century. She was rarely seen without some project or book in her hands.
She will always be remembered as the fun Mom and Grandmother who made everyone smile. She had a way of making those in her life feel very special and loved unconditionally.
Mary is predeceased by Johann’s wife Pamela Ann and survived by her husband Keith, their 4 children, Johann, Teresa, Mary, and Susanne, Susanne’s husband Roger, 9 grandchildren, and 7 great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of Little Traverse Bay, 1 Hiland Drive, Petoskey, Michigan, 49770.
A memorial life celebration for Mary Alyce Strieter’s was held on Sunday, October 2nd, 2016 at Transfiguration Episcopal Church in Indian River.
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CLASS of 1958
Gordon Eugene "Gene" Clark
February 7, 1940 - December 4, 2016
Gordon Eugene “Gene” Clark of Eagle passed away December 4, 2016 after a long and courageous battle with lung disease. He was born February 7, 1940 to the late Gordon and Ethel Clark. Gene retired as Captain of the Grand Ledge Fire Department in 1999 after over 30 years of service. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, and always looked forward to his many fishing trips to Oba Lake in Canada.
Surviving are his wife of 56 years, Claudia and two sons, Mark (Karen) and Dick. Also surviving are five grandchildren: Brittni, Jake, Kayleigh, Samantha, and Tyler Clark; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Mary and Ken Zischke, and special friends Rennie Brokob and Spencer Vrooman. Gene was a very loving and devoted husband, father, grandpa, and friend, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, December 8, 2016 – 11:00 a.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Visitation will be Wednesday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to Capital Area Humane Society or American Lung Association.
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CLASS of 1958
Larry Dobson
1941 - August 21, 2016
Larry Dobson, 75, of Leesburg Florida, died on Sunday morning August 21, 2016.
Larry was born in Quincy, Michigan in 1941 to Orlo and Virginia Dobson. He was the fourth of four children. He is predeceased by his brother Gene and sister Mary Ellen. He is survived by his brother Bill and many nephews and nieces.
Larry moved to Florida in 1960 to escape the bitter cold Michigan winters. He fell in love with the sun and his soon to be wife Brenda Ferguson in Leesburg, Florida and in 1961 he proposed to her after two weeks of dating. They were married on May 26, 1962. Larry and Brenda have two sons, Darryl and Kevin. Darryl lives in Draper, Utah, with his two children and Kevin lives in Edgewater, Florida, with his wife Donna.
Larry began working for Publix Supermarkets in 1960 starting in the Lakeland Warehouse. He retired from Publix as Store Manager in Gainesville Florida in 1999 after a thirty-nine year career. Larry loved working for Publix and was easily spotted in the Supermarket by listening for the sound of his whistling. He loved his customers and staff and made many great friendships over the years.
Larry’s passion outside of his family was fishing the many lakes in Central Florida. An avid bass fisherman, he loved sharing this passion with friends and family throughout his lifetime. He was a champion for the little guy and the down and out and was always quick to lend a hand to those in need without ever needing recognition for his good deeds. He had a great sense of humor, and if you found yourself on the sharp end of one of his practical jokes it was because he loved you.
If you happen to have sat in the balcony of First Baptist Church of Leesburg he attended, you might have noticed him wiping his eyes which were full of tears when the hymns were sung....the music spoke volumes to his heart every Sunday, and he always carried extra tissues as he always felt God’s presence in a special way.
Larry had been battling health issues for a number of years and finally succumbed to a heart attack. Nevertheless, he always kept a positive attitude and did his best with the cards he was dealt. He will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, August 26 at 2:30 PM with Rev. Tony Hoffman officiating at Beyers Funeral Home, Leesburg.
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CLASS of 1958
Richard "Dick" Love
February 25, 2017
Florida
Richard L. Love, 76, died Feb. 25, 2017. He is urvived by wife, Sharon; sons, Andy (Teresa) Love, Skeet Love; sister, Nancy (Junior) Jolly; grandson, Cody Brandt.
No other information was available.
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CLASS of 1958
David "Skip" C. Meredith
June 7, 1940 - August 31, 2016
David “Skip” C. Meredith, 76, passed away peacefully at home on August 31, 2016. He was born June 7, 1940 in Grand Ledge, MI, son of Verl and Grace (Sherman) Meredith. Skip was retired from Meijer Inc., served in the U.S. Navy and was a member of the American Legion Cole-Briggs Post 48, Grand Ledge. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Patricia, son and daughter-in-law, David (Jennifer) Meredith and daughter and son-in-law Suzanne (Richard) By, grandchildren: Jennifer and Christopher By, Madelyn, Lydia and Ellayna Meredith; sisters: Pearl Sealy, Marilyn Meredith and Lois Baker. He was predeceased by two sons, James and Gerald Meredith and brother Edward Meredith.
A funeral service will be held Tuesday, September 6, 2016 – 11:00 A.M. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, with visitation one hour prior to service time. Military Honors will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
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CLASS of 1958
James Lee Murphy
March 25, 2017
San Diego, California
No other information was available at the time of his passing.
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CLASS of 1958
Janet "Hutchison" Ripley
July 30, 1940 - September, 20, 2016
Charlotte
Janet L. Ripley of Charlotte, MI, age 76, passed away on Tuesday, September 20, 2016, at the Eaton Community Palliative Care with her loving family at her side. Janet was born July 30, 1940, in Charlotte the daughter of Charles W. and Donna A. (Baxter) Hutchison.
She was a 1958 Graduate of Grand Ledge High School. She had been employed in Medical Billing in the Medical Practice of Doctors Leeser and Joseph for 25 years. Prior to that had been employed for a short time at Michigan State University. She was a member of the Fraternal Order of Moose Chapter 1682 in Zephyrhills, FL, and the Charlotte Eagles Aerie #3552 in Charlotte. She was an avid reader and enjoyed traveling.
She is survived by: two daughters, Kimberly (Hal) Wheeler and Mindy (Chris) Weaver both of Charlotte; two grandsons, Tyler (Jaclyn) Ripley of Charlotte and Travis (Katie) Ripley of Texas and great-grandchildren, Max Ripley, Kylee Ripley and Beau Ripley.
She was preceded in death by 2 children, Randall Ripley and Jeffrey Ripley and her husband of 53 years, Gary A. Ripley in 2011.
Funeral services were held at 11:00 AM Friday, September 23, 2016, at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Home in Charlotte with Rev. Charles Jenson officiating. Interment will be in the Maple Hill Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may go to the Eaton Community Palliative Care in Charlotte.
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CLASS of 1958
Laverne Coral Smith
1939 — August 1, 2016.
Caledonia, Michigan
Laverne Coral Smith, "Smitty", age 76, of Caledonia, died at home Monday, August 1, 2016, surrounded by friends and family. He was born in 1939, in Lansing, MI, to Merle and Bernice Smith-McPherson. After graduating, Laverne married his high school sweetheart, Sharon Bowers, and began working for Michigan Bell. No one who met Laverne ever forgot his passion for fishing, cribbage or a lively game of euchre. His inventive nature kept him always on the lookout for his next enterprise. When not busy with his inventions, he spent time sharing his many adventurous stories with any who would listen.
He was predeceased by his parents; his brother, Bruce Smith; and sisters, Judy Smith and Leslie Crosby. He is survived by his brother, Arlen Smith; his sister, Maureen McPherson; his children, Kym Smith and his wife, Linda; Bryan Smith and his wife, Lisa; Eric Smith and his wife, Cindy; his daughter, Gwyn Smith; his grandchildren, Michael (Kelly) Smith, Melissa (Aaron) Balogh, Kymberly Smith, Matthew Smith, Rachel (Nick) Thaler, Joel Smith, Caitlin Smith, David Smith, Rachelle Smith, Benjamin Smith, Timothy Smith; and six great grandchildren.
Memorial contributions may be sent to Healing Eyes, Inc.
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CLASS of 1959
Garry K. Hengesbaugh
July 9, 1941 - October 10, 2016
Garry K. Hengesbaugh age 75 of Bancroft passed away Monday, October 10, 2016 at Sparrow Hospital. A gathering of friends was held on Saturday, October 29, 2016 at Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, Durand Chapel.
Garry was born July 9, 1941 in Lansing, MI a son of Lawrence and Leona (Harrington) Hengesbaugh. After High School he served in the Army. On January 9, 1971 he married Nanci Kramer. Garry enjoyed poetry, hunting, fishing, just being outdoors, doing different projects of all kinds, and his pole barn "man Cave". Prior to his retirement from Farm Bureau Insurance in 2007, he had been employed there for over 39 years.
Garry is survived by his wife, Nanci Hengesbaugh; children, Larry (Christine Morrow) Hengesbaugh and Staci (Shane) Wicke; grandchildren, Zachary, Jaclyn, Lauren and Tyler; mother, Leona; sister, Diane; sister-in-law, Sherry; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Lawrence; brother, Neil; and brother-in-law, Tom.
Memorial Contributions in Garry's name are suggested to the American Cancer Society.
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CLASS of 1959
Drusilla "Thomson" Kintigh
November 20, 1941 -- March 22, 2017
Here's hoping God likes BINGO because our loving, thoughtful, sincere mother will have him yelling out BINGO numbers for everyone who loves to play.
Drusilla Rose Kintigh, 75 of Lansing, Michigan passed away suddenly on March 22, 2017. She was born in Hastings, Michigan, on November 20, 1941, to Joseph P. Thomson and M. Dawn Burns (Walter).
After graduating from High School, she married her beloved husband of 56 years, Clark M. Kintigh. She spent most of her life as a meticulous homemaker and devoted wife and mother. She was preceded by his recent death, which completely broke her heart. Also preceding her death were her parents, a stepfather Walter Burns, son-in-law Brian Coates and brothers Patrick and Michael Thomson.
Surviving to cherish her memory are her children, Kamie D. Coates, Mitchell (Julie) Kintigh and Kellie (Scott) Kintigh-Witt; loving brother David (Joan) Thomson; 7 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild as well as nieces, nephews and cousins. She had many other loving family and friends, including very thoughtful neighbors. Her kindness will be missed more than words can express, but we know she is happy and healthy in her new life.
Drusilla will be remembered for her thoughtful, hospitable acts and her love for Bingo and Casino slots.
In Lieu of flowers, contributions honoring Drusilla's memory may be made to the American Lung Association.
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CLASS of 1960
Paul Dean Elder
May 10, 1942 - January 12, 2017
Paul Dean Elder of Chippewa Lake formerly of Lansing passed away January 12, 2017 in Big Rapids. Paul was born May 10, 1942 in Lansing, Michigan to the late Thomas and Mildred (Wohlford) Elder. He retired from GM and enjoyed spending time with his family at the lake. He was an avid outdoorsmen and looked forward to hunting and fishing.
He is survived by children, Gordon, Laura (Jon) Van Douser and Jean Dean; granddaughters, Ashley and Caitlin; great grandchildren, Kadin, James Jr. and Carson; siblings, Maynard (Barbara) Elder and Judy (Theron) Unrath. Paul was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon on May 6, 2014.
A funeral service will be held Thursday, January 19, 2017, 11 am at Liberty Church, Grand Ledge with Pastor James K. Roberts, officiating. Interment will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Visitation Wednesday from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Memorial contributions may be given to the American Heart Association, 2140 University Park, Suite 210, Okemos, Michigan 48864.
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CLASS of 1960
Carl Steven Lamb
March 7, 2016
Raleigh NC
Carl Steven Lamb, age 74, of Raleigh NC passed away March 7, 2016.
He is survived by his sister Linda Balzer (Dick) of Zephyrhills FL, daughter in law Eileen Lamb and grandson Turner Lamb of Poughkeepsie, NY., and his significant other Karen A. Skelton of Raleigh, NC.
He is predeceased by his parents Carl E. and Dora A.. Lamb and his son David Lamb.
Carl loved to bowl and was a member of Lake Lynn Seniors.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Carl’s name may be made to Transitions LifeCare. 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh NC 27607.
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CLASS of 1960
Marilyn "Provo" White
July 5, 1942 - March 25, 2017
Marilyn “Provo” White, 75, born July 5, 1942, passed away March 25, 2017 in Lansing, MI. Marilyn loved her family, dogs, and greatly enjoyed camping and canoeing with them. She also enjoyed gardening, crochet, knitting, and collecting watering cans. Survivors include her son Vance White and daughter Jody K. Neilsen; two grandchildren Samantha and Joseph Neilsen, three sisters: Sandra Free, Barbara Tallman, and Jessica (Mike) Bridges. She is preceded in death by her husband of 40 years, Bob White.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, March 29, 2017 at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, with interment following at Delta Center Cemetery, Delta Township. Visitation was Tuesday at the funeral home.
For those wishing, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or American Kidney Foundation.
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CLASS of 1961
Edward Ernest Bodell
August 15, 1943 - October 21, 2016
Greenville
Edward E. Bodell, age 73, died unexpectedly Friday, October 21, 2016 at his home in Greenville. He was born August 15, 1943 in Charlotte, MI, the son of Lawrence and Gertrude (Hauter) Bodell. He was a union bricklayer, and an extremely hard worker. He was quick witted with a wonderful sense of humor, and will be deeply missed, especially by his wife, Frederica; children, Darin Bodell of Grand Ledge, Stephanie (Robert) Babbitt of Perrinton, Jessica (David) Ross of Ada, Andrew (Belle) Bodell of Carson City, and James (Angela) Bodell of Midland; grandchildren, Nicole (Mike) Stafford, Lance (LeAnne) Bodell, Robert Babbitt, Jordan (Jessica) Babbitt, Hollie (David) Henry, Lacey Bodell, Misty Bodell, Sara Ross, David Ross, Gavin Collins, Deegan Bodell, Kalvin Bodell, Asher Bodell, and Seth Bodell; seven great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Vicki (Terry) Brickley.
He was preceded in death by his son, Scott Bodell; his parents; and his brother, Larry Bodell. No formal services will be held.
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CLASS of 1961
Dennis G. Conarton
August 26, 1943 - January 13, 2017
Grand Ledge
Born August 26, 1943 passed away on January 13, 2017 after a mighty 7 year battle with cancer. His daughter, Andrea, and wife, Claudia were by his side, holding his hands to send him off on his next adventure. Denny was greeted by his father Lester and his mother Helen and many other family members and friends who passed before him.
Denny spent 28 years working for and then becoming co-owner of Eckhart Associates. After retirement, he worked for Adesa Auto Auction where he and his buddies enjoyed swapping stories to see who could be the most outrageous. Denny enjoyed spending time with family and friends, traveling, fishing, golfing, and visiting casinos near and far. He was an avid MSU fan and one of the best story tellers. All who knew him loved his sense of humor.
He is survived by his wife Claudia; daughter Andrea; brother Jim (Peg); stepchildren Adam (Allison) and Laura (Jason); and grandchildren Torrian, Sam, Lydia, Thatcher, and Houghton.
A gathering to celebrate his life will be held at a later time. Those wishing to honor his life may do so by making a donation in his name to their favorite charity or Capital Area Humane Society. Arrangements by Palmer Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Homes, Delta Chapel.
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CLASS of 1961
Ronald Robert Fox
September 11, 1943 - January 08, 2017
Delta Township
Ronald Robert Fox flew to his eternal home surrounded by his wife, children, and brother on January 8, 2017 at the age of 73. Ron was born on September 11, 1943 in Lansing, Michigan to Robert and Alice (Cook) Fox. He graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1961 and then proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1961-1966. Ron worked for General Motors until retirement in 1997. Ron dedicated countless hours to his beloved St. Casimir Church where he actively volunteered and participated in many groups, councils, and dinners. Ron loved golfing, bowling, fishing, but camping with his wife, kids and grandkids and generally spending time with his family was his true passion. Ron loved spending time with his grandkids and always supported them at their activities. Ron was a friend to all he met and was always willing to lend a hand to help.
He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother James (Val) Fox. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife Susan (Ellis) Fox; his children, Steve (Leticia) Fox, Tami (Josh) Brewer, Trisha (Joel) Gerring, Stacy (Weston) Barrett; his grandchildren, Daniel, Dustin, Alex, Aidan, Jessica, Madaline, Lillian “Bug”, Maxwell, and baby girl on the way; a brother, Dennis (Lisa) Fox, along with many in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
The Funeral Mass will be Celebrated Saturday, January 14, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Casimir Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. Bill Lugger as Celebrant. The family will receive friends Friday from 1:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Palmer Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Home, Delta Chapel where the Rosary will be prayed at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue Saturday at the church at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the 2nd Sunday 100th Anniversary Celebration Fund or the Advent House in memory of Ron and his passion for both.
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CLASS of 1961
LaVerne Richard Reed
August 10, 1942 - January 18, 2017
Charlotte
LaVerne Richard "Vern" Reed, 74, of Charlotte, died peacefully on Wednesday, January 18, 2017. Vern was born August 10, 1942 in Lake Odessa, MI, the son of Elmo Elwood and Cleora Mary (Shinevar) Reed. He attended Grand Ledge high school, where he met Judy Ann Priesman. The two married on August 21, 1965 and settled in Charlotte to start their family. Vern worked over 31 years for General Motors, retiring as a Union Representative for UAW Local 602. He enjoyed his time in the outdoors, especially camping and playing golf, and was proud of his family Ojibwa heritage. Vern enjoyed woodworking and home life with Judy. Above all, he cherished time spent with his grandchildren. He will be missed as a loving husband, father, and grandpa.
Vern is survived by his wife of 51 years, Judy; son, Orlan (JoAnn) Reed of Charlotte; daughter, Lucinda (Aaron Nowland) Reed of Lansing; grandchildren, Dr. Blake Reed, Steffanie (Jeff) Hale, Jenna Reed, and Maverick (Kirsten) Reed, Tristan Reed/Morrison, all of Charlotte, and Jocelyn and Kara Nowland, Erin Rose, and Cierra Burcham, all of Lansing; great-grandson, Ivan David Reed; sister, Katherine (Rudy) Utter; brother, Lloyd (Judy) Reed; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Loren, Ron, Robert, Bill and Jim Reed and Rose Burton Enness.
A private graveside service will be held at West Carmel Cemetery with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. The family invites friends and family to a memorial service at West Carmel Congregational Church at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 21, 2017. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Eaton Community Palliative Care in care of the family.
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CLASS of 1961
Nancy "Wilcox" Skinkle
October 28, 1943 - May 6, 2016
Nancy Ann “Wilcox” Skinkle, age 72, of Perryville, Arkansas passed away Friday, May 6, 2016. She was born October 28, 1943 in Prescott, Arkansas the daughter of the late Stewart and Helen (Loe) Wilcox. In addition to her parents, Nancy is preceded by her brother Kenneth Wilcox and grandson Cody Skinkle. She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Msgt (Ret.) USAF Ronald Skinkle of Perryville; sons Marc Skinkle of Springboro, Ohio Scott (Kristy) Skinkle of Perryville; daughters Tammy (Bobby) Covington of Hampton, Virginia and Shanna (Allen) Lovell of Perryville; two brothers, John (Barbara) Wilcox of East Lansing, Michigan Steven (Karen) Wilcox of Lansing, Michigan and sister-in-law Gabriela Wilcox of Puebla City, Mexico; nine grandchildren, Brandon and Misty Covington of Hampton, Virginia, Andrew Skinkle of Pine Bluff, Allison Skinkle of Houston, Texas, Megan (Jeremy) Boughton, Emily Skinkle, Austin and Sydney Williams, and Brooke Lovell; two great grandchildren, Kinsey and Karley Boughton all of Perryville; many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.
Funeral services were held Thursday, May 12, 2016 at the Harris Chapel with Bro. Steven Schlinker officiating. The family received friends from on Wednesday at the funeral home in Morrilton. Burial was at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock, Arkansas by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Pallbearers were Brandon Covington, Megan Boughton, Andrew Skinkle, Misty Covington, Allison Skinkle, Austin Williams, Sydney Williams and Emily Skinkle. Honorary Pallbearers will be Brooke Lovell, Kinsey Boughton and Karley Boughton.
In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Arkansas Children's Hospital Foundation, Nancy Skinkle Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 2222 Little Rock, Arkansas 72203.
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CLASS of 1962
Linda "Finstrom" Houseman
October 14, 1943 - January 30, 2017
Linda M. Houseman, 73, passed away at home January 30, 2017. She was born October 14, 1943 in Riverside, CA, daughter to Hartley and Delphine (Englehardt) Finstrom. Linda retired from the State of Michigan, Riverside Correctional Facility. She enjoyed plastic canvas sewing and baking with her grandchildren. Survivors include Mikjell I. Brown, sons Dennis Shaw and Scott Houseman; 8 grandchildren, sisters Carole VanEtten and Hilda Finstrom. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother Hartley Finstrom.
In honoring Linda’s wishes, no services will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 W. Grand River Ave., Lansing, MI 48906 or American Cancer Society, 1755 Abbey Road, East Lansing, MI 48823. The family is being served by the Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
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CLASS of 1962
Sheila "Robinson" Packer
July 29, 1943 - July 16, 2016
Sheila Robinson Packer, born July 29, 1943 in Lansing, MI, passed away July 16, 2016 at the age of 72. From Lansing, Sheila moved to Ionia, then to Grand Ledge where she graduated from Grand Ledge High School; then to Virginia. She would often talk about her experiences living in Morocco, Africa and Panama, before coming back to Cadillac and finally Grand Ledge. She was a former employee of Tendercare and McDonalds; also a former waitress at Hilltop Restaurant. She liked doing puzzles, going to fairs, garage sales; watching westerns and game shows; also liked to bake, especially pies. Sheila had to have her glass of iced tea and her candy jar was always filled with mini peanut butter cups. Special thanks to her caregivers, Jan and Joan for her final days.
Sheila is survived by her daughter, Shellie (Ken) Himebaugh, grandchildren: Mallory Himebaugh, Holley (Paddy) MacDonald and Stephaney (Kelsey Pohl) Himebaugh; great grandchildren, Journey and Vada MacDonald, and sister Darla (Jack) Swan. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ordale and Phyllis (Gee) Robinson; infant son Randy and son David Packer.
A private graveside service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given in memory of Sheila Packer to McLaren Hospice or Capital Area Humane Society. The family is being served by the Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
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CLASS of 1963
Robert Lynn Starkweather
September 30, 1944 - July 8, 2016
Robert Lynn Starkweather of Delta Township passed away July 8, 2016 surrounded by his family. Lynn was a father, grandfather, brother and friend who will be greatly missed. He was born September 30, 1944 in Lansing to the late Robert A. and Meta M. (Dalius) Starkweather. He graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1963, went on to serve in the US Army and retired from GM as a press operator.
Lynn enjoyed bowling, golfing on a VFW League at Prairie Creek and meeting his “coffee club” friends at McDonald’s. His focus and source of joy came from spending time with his family, especially his grandkids.
He is survived by children, Shannon Dickinson (Starkweather) and Matt (Carmen)Starkweather; step-children, Greg (Lori) Crawford, Laura (John) Meredith-Crawford and Andrea (Scott) Harris; 10 grandchildren; siblings, Don and Donna (Richard) Mills. Lynn was preceded in death by wife, Brenda.
A funeral service with military honors will be held Thursday, July 14, 2016, 11AM at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge with Vicar Aaron Hauser of Our Savior Lutheran Church, officiating.
Visitation Wednesday from 5-8:00pm at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be given to the American Heart Association, 2140 University Park, Suite 210, Okemos, Michigan 48864 or McLaren Hospice, 1515 Cal Drive, Davison, Michigan 48423.
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CLASS of 1964
Gary Lee Debler
February 7, 1944 - November 8, 2016
Lake Odessa
Age 72, died November 8, 2016. Gary was born February 7, 1944 in Charlotte, a son of Edward J. and Rose M. (Felder) Debler. Gary was raised in Mulliken and graduated from Grand Ledge High School. He retired from General Motors, working in skilled trades.
Surviving are his wife, Colleen; son Randy Debler; step-daughters, Mandy (Scott) Jackson, Page (Scot) Neustifter and Kecia (Mike) Dillon; 8 grandchildren, Kyle Jackson, Rebecca (Tom) Prowdley, Shannon Jackson, Madison and Maison Neustifter, Ben, Megan and Nathan Dillon; 8 great-grandchildren; brothers, sister and extended family.
A celebration of Gary's life will be 3 P.M. Saturday, November 12, 2016, at Barker-Leik Funeral Home, Mulliken. The family will receive friends from 1-3 P.M. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to MacKenzie's Animal Sanctuary, 8935 Thompson Road, Lake Odessa, MI 48849.
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CLASS of 1964
Kathleen "Lear" Hasselbring
June 17, 1946 - May 2, 2017
Kathleen “Lear” Hasselbring of Grand Ledge went to be with the Lord May 2, 2017. Kathy was born June 17, 1946 in Eaton Rapids, Michigan. Kathy graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1964. After Kathy graduated from Lansing Community College she worked as a licensed practical nurse in home health care. Kathy was a longtime faithful member of Community Baptist Church and will be missed by many dear friends especially, Kathy Cook and Janice Arnold.
Kathy is survived by her husband of over thirty-years, Rick L.; children, Diane Peltier, Laura Mills, Kim (Brad) Butler, Michelle Hasselbring, James Mills and Lynn Sleeman; 13 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; brother, Tom (Peg) Lear and close friend and former daughter-in-law, Angie Mills. She was preceded in death by parents George Lear and Hattie Lear Baribeau.
A funeral service will be held Saturday, May 6, 2017, 11 a.m. at Community Baptist Church, 7832 W. Mt. Hope Highway, Grand Ledge with The Reverend Timothy W. Jackson, officiating. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. Visitation will be Friday from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge and Saturday at the church from 10-11 a.m. Memorial contributions may be given to the Community Baptist Church Faith Promise Misssions.
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CLASS of 1965
Michael W. Ballans
July 21, 2016
Michael W. Ballans, Sr., 69, of Lansing, died July 21, 2016.
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CLASS of 1965
William Lloyd Trachsel
October 22, 1947 - April 4, 2017
William Floyd Trachsel passed away at his home on Tuesday, April 4 in Englewood, Florida. A famous son of Grand Ledge, he grew up on Jefferson Street. He was a former state champion wrestler for Grand Ledge High School and a decorated Vietnam veteran.
He leaves behind a loving wife Connie, a son, William Trachsel (Monica), two daughters, Melissa Dagg (Tom), Krista Blubaum (Scott) and eleven grandchildren.
He will be greatly missed. In lieu of flowers, go have a cold one at Preston’s Bar.
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CLASS of 1966
Michael V. Chemacki
October 15, 1947 - May 31, 2016
Michael V. Chemacki passed away at home on May 31, 2016. He was born October 15, 1947 in Lansing, MI, son of the late Joseph and Betty Sue (Pennell) Chemacki. Mike served in the U.S. Air Force and retired from the State of Michigan Corrections. He was a member of the Cole-Briggs Post 48 American Legion and VFW Post 3293, Grand Ledge. Mike was an avid outdoorsman and sports fan; enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating and camping. He was a mentor to many and great friend to all who knew him.
Mike is survived by his wife of 38 years, Sylvia, sons: Seth (Tonie), Jordan (Lindsey) and Elton; three grandchildren: Aubrey, Adelyn and Tyson; two brothers John (Kathy) and George (Joan), and sister Laura Jane Chemacki (Mike) Nelson. A Celebration of Life memorial and luncheon will be held Saturday, June 11, 2016 from 2:00 – 6:00 P.M. at the American Legion Cole-Briggs Post 48, 731 N. Clinton St., Grand Ledge. Visitations will be held Friday, June 10th from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. at the Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
A Memorial Honor Guard Ceremony will commence at 3:30 P.M. Friday, June 10th. Memorial contributions may be made to VFW Post 3293. Online condolences may be shared at wwwpetersandmurrayfuneralhome.com.
As a past practice the GLHS50+ Board has only listed the obituaries for GLHS graduates that had passed from one years' reunion to the next. However we have noticed we periodically come across obituaries that we have missed in the past that may have occurred in a time frame outside of the traditional one-year span we track from reunion-to-reunion. With that in mind, we have decided to list any obituary we have missed that has occurred outside of the current one-year time span as part of the list of "THOSE WHO HAVE PASSED".
If you know of someone who has passed please let us now through the "CONTACT FORM" option from the menu bar above on any page of this website or by sending an email to [email protected].
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OBITUARIES ARE LISTED IN CLASS YEAR ORDER -- WITH COMPLETE OBITUARIES FOLLOWING THE LISTING:
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------------------------1930's--------------------------
7/24/2016 Jeanette "Rose" Babbitt. . . . . . . . . 1936
11/3/2016 Jeanette "Schavey" Miller. . . . . . . . .1937
2/10/2017 Edward A. Shaw, Sr. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1938
5/13/2015 John "Jack" Bryce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1939
7/10/2015 Ruth Elizabeth "Westfall" Maguire . . 1939
4/11/2014 Virginia "Vogt" Vance . . . . . . . . . . . . 1939
12/14/2016 Wendell E. Wilkins. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1939
------------------------1940's--------------------------
1/18/2017 Mary "Dixon" Pridgeon. . . . . . . . . . 1940
12/19/2016 Richard C. Rosier. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1940
3/14/2017 Cecilia Ethel "Stevens" Stambaugh. 1940
2/4/2017 Keith "Tom" Husted . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1941
10/1/2016 Dr. Mary "Alexander" Cain . . . . . . . . .1942
1/24/2015 Dora "McDonough" Morse . . . . . . . . .1942
6/11/2016 Norma "Baxter" Marshall . . . . . . . . . .1943
9/17/2016 Trillis "Eaton" Boyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1943
3/1/2016 Margaret Louise "Green" Wetzbar . .1943
4/17/2016 Betty "Patrick" Carter . . . . . . . . . . . .1944
4/10/2017 Shirley "Millard" Dayton . . . . . . . . . . .1944
2/23/2017 Marjorie Hefflebower" Zischke . . . . . 1944
12/16/2016 Aletha Mae "Barnes Cosens. . . . . . . .1945
12/29/2016 Beverly "Kopkau" Simonds. . . . . . . . 1946
6/9/2016 James Henry Baker. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1947
4/5/2017 Norma "Thomas" Barnes . . . . . . . . . . 1947
5/28/2016 Dale J. Benjamin, Jr.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1947
4/12/2017 John Doane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1947
1/24/2016 Virginia Elaine "Brunsman" Sablain . . .1947
10/3/2016 Phylis "Parsons" Willis . . . . . . . . . . . . 1948
10/8/2016 Frances "Tegels" Baker. . . . . . . . . . . . .1949
5/28/2016 Jack L. Hankins. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1949
9/26/2016 Johanna "Abbruzzese" Parshall . . . . . 1949
------------------------1950's--------------------------
3/28/2016 Robert T. Edgar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1950
9/30/2016 Onalee Marie "Heath" Kelton. . . . . . . .1950
2/2/2017 Marilyn "Dillis" Lyons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1950
12/10/2016 Carol "Reedy" Brookman . . . . . . . . . . .1951
6/4/2016 Marilyn “Maier” Smith. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1951
2/13/2017 Meritta "Bloom" Huver . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1952
9/5/2016 Lyle L. Johnson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1952
10/16/2016 Jean "Ladd" Lonsberry. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1952
4/10/2017 Gary J. Hershoren . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1953
6/8/2015 Glenn M. Smith, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1953
3/11/2017 Lawrence Vandermoere. . . . . . . . . . . . .1953
1/24/2017 Peggy Joan "Reed" Baldwin. . . . . . . . . 1954
11/20/2016 John W. Frank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1955
1/1/2017 Hilda "Griese" Goetzka . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1955
12/21/2016 Dan E. Hankins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1955
2/24/2017 Richard Charles Northrup . . . . . . . . . . . .1955
4/25/2017 Barbara "Baker" Armstrong . . . . . . . . . . 1956
3/29/2017 Gary J. Brunette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1956
11/2/2016 Stephen Frederick Graszler. . . . . . . . . . .1956
4/12/2016 Ronald G. Peterson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1956
3/16/2017 Gerald K. Berner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1957
1/2/2017 Jerolyn "VanderMoere" Johnson. . . . . . .1957
9/19/2016 Mary Alyce "Ansley" Strieter . . . . . . . . 1957
12/4/2016 Gordon Eugene "Gene" Clark. . . . . . . . . 1958
8/21/2016 Larry Dobson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1958
2/25/2017 Richard "Dick" Love . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1958
8/31//2016 David "Skip" C. Meredith. . . . . . . . . . . . 1958
3/25/2017 James Lee Murphy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1958
9/20/2016 Janet "Hutchison" Ripley. . . . . . . . . . . . 1958
8/1/2016 Laverne Coral Smith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1958
10/10/2016 Garry Kenneth Hengesbaugh . . . . . . . .1959
3/22/2017 Drusilla "Thomson" Kintigh . . . . . . . . . . 1959
------------------------1960's--------------------------
1/12/2017 Paul Dean Elder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1960
3/7/2016 Carl Steven Lamb . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1960
3/25/2017 Marilyn "Provo" White. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1960
10/21/2016 Edward Ernest Bodell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1961
1/13/2017 Dennis G. Conarton. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1961
1/8/2017 Ronald Robert Fox. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1961
1/18/2017 LaVerne Richard Reed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1961
5/6/2016 Nancy "Wilcox" Skinkle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1961
1/30/2017 Linda "Finstrom" Houseman. . . . . . . . . .1962
7/16/2016 Sheila “Robinson” Packer. . . . . . . . . . . . .1962
7/8/2016 Robert Lynn Starkweather. . . . . . . . . . . .1963
11/8/2016 Gary Lee Debler. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1964
5/2/2017 Kathleen "Lear" Hasselbring . . . . . . . . . . 1964
7/21/2016 Michael W. Ballans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1965
4/4/2017 William Lloyd Trachsel, Sr. . . . . . . . . . . . .1965
5/31/2016 Michael V. Chemacki. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1966
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CLASS of 1936
Jeanette "Rose" Babbitt
May 20, 1918 - July 24, 2016
Jeanette E. Babbitt, 98, born May 20, 1918 in Riley Twp., Clinton County, MI, passed away July 24, 2016 in Charlotte, MI. Jeanette was a graduate of Grand Ledge High School; member of Wacousta Community United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, Neighborhood Society and Eagle Cemetery Society. She was a life member and past matron of Wacousta O.E.S. Chapter 133 and past officer of White Shrine of Ionia.
Jeanette is survived by her sons, Vernon and Melvin (April) Babbitt, six grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, Lewis.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, July 28, 2016 at 11:00 A.M. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, with interment to follow at Wacousta Cemetery, Watertown Twp., Clinton County. Visitation will be held at the funeral home Wednesday, July 27th from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., with O.E.S. services to be conducted at 7:30 P.M.
For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Jeanette to Wacousta Community United Methodist Church.
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CLASS of 1937
Jeanette "Schavey" Miller
August 9, 1919 - November 2016
Montpelier
Jeanette “Schavey” Miller, 97, of Montpelier passed away Monday morning at Hillside Country Living in rural Bryan. She was born on August 9, 1919 in Grand Ledge, Michigan to Archie and Mertie (Allen) Schavey. Jeanette graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1937. She earned her RN degree from St. Lawrence Hospital in Lansing, Michigan.
Jeanette was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Montpelier and a former member of the Montpelier Civic League. Jeanette worked as an RN after graduation until moving to Montpelier. She then worked alongside her husband Bill at the Leader Enterprise for 20 years, before returning to nursing at the Bryan Medical Group where she worked for Dr. Carrico and where she retired.
Jeanette is survived by her children Bob (Fran) Bryce of Whitehouse, Alan (Judy) Miller of Seattle, Washington, and Ann (Jim) Roseen of California; three grandchildren Bobbi (Brad) Miller, Christa (Mark) Pawlaczyk, and Teresa (John) Ernsthausen and eight great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, first husband Bill Bryce, second husband Keith Miller, daughter Mary Kay Bryce, son Jeff Miller, and sister Leone Turner.
A time to receive friends was held on Thursday, November 3, 2016 at the First Presbyterian Church in Montpelier with a memorial service following at the church with Reverend David Tilly. Interment was at Oakwood Cemetery in Grand Ledge, Michigan. Memorial Contributions may be given to the First Presbyterian Church of Montpelier.
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CLASS of 1938
Edward A. Shaw, Sr.
November 9, 1919 - February 10, 2017
Grand Ledge
Edward Albert Shaw, Sr., 97, went to be with his Lord and Savior, February 10, 2017. Born November 9th, 1919, in a farm house in Wacousta, MI, to Cecil and Bertha Shaw. He was the youngest of three children. He was preceded in death by his wife of 72-1/2 years, Dorothy Dick-Shaw, and his older brother, Harold Cecil Shaw. Family left behind are his older sister, Irene Krug, four Sons and Daughters-in-Law: Ronald & Nancy Shaw, Terry & Elaine Shaw, Edward Albert Jr & Cindy Shaw, James & Carol Shaw. Also left behind are seven Grandchildren, and 16 Great Grandchildren. Edward was a WWII veteran serving in the US Army Air Corp in the European Theater as an Airplane Welder & Mechanic. After 36 years of service with Industrial Welding, Inc. (Enprotech) in Lansing, MI as a welder and machinist, he retired in 1985.
Visitation will be held Sunday, February 12, 2017, from 2- 4 and 6 - 8 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, MI. Funeral services will be held Monday, February 13, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Maranatha Baptist Church, 2300 N. Waverly Road in Lansing, MI, followed by Military Graveside Service at Delta Center Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Camp Barakel or Great Lakes Caring.
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CLASS of 1939
John "Jack" Bryce
January 16, 1922 - May 13, 2015
John “Jack” Bryce, 93, of Bryan passed Monday night at Hillside Country Living in rural Bryan. He was born on January 16, 1922 in Onaway, Michigan to Frank A. and Else D. (Winkelman) Bryce. Jack graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1939. He then received his Bachelor of Science in Journalism from Michigan State University in 1948. He proudly served his country in the United States Army Air Force with the 8th Air Force as a bombardar with the 100th Bomb Group during World War II. Jack married Arleta “Lee” S. Kolbe and she preceded him in death in May of 2013.
In 1950 Jack became the co-owner and editor of the Leader Enterprise with his brother William. At that time they also purchased the Edon Commercial, the Edgerton Earth, and the Tri-State Shopping News, now known as the County Line.
Jack is survived by two sons, Geoffrey (Sharon) Bryce of LaGrange Park, Illinois and Joel (Nancy) Bryce of Bryan; three step-daughters, Pamela (Mike) Rader of Traverse City, Michigan, Vicki (Jon) Hake of Edon, Ohio and Toni (Kevin) McCourt of Montpelier; one sister-in-law Jeanette Miller of Montpelier, twelve grandchildren and several great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Lee, and a brother William in 1968.
Visitation for Jack was held on Thursday, May 14, 2015 at the Thompson Funeral Home on Main Street in Montpelier. Services were held on Thursday, May 14, 2015 with military rites provided by the Montpelier Veterans. A private interment was at Oakwood Cemetery in Grand Ledge, Michigan.
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CLASS of 1939
Ruth Elizabeth "Westfall" Maguire
December 8, 1921 - July 10, 2015
Battle Creek
Ruth Elizabeth “Westfall” Maguire, of Battle Creek passed quietly at home at Pennfield Premier Living residence surrounded by family on July 10, 2015. Ruth was born to the late Harper and Hazel (Strouse) Westfall.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Laurel LaVail Maguire, brothers, Tom and Charles Westfall, sister Fern Howe, and son-in-law, Ron Wilcox.
Along with her faith and pastoral ministry with LaVail, her greatest joy has been her 3children, Roger (Pat) Maguire, Carolyn Wilcox, Marlene (Len) Lawson, and their families: 9 grand children, Michelle, Lisa, Scott, Rodney, Carla, Cheryl, Rick, Matthew and Elizabeth. And 14 great-grandchildren: Alex, Cynthia, Madison, Brady, Baylee, Brandon, Jack, Sam, Grace, Lauren, McKenna, Stanley, D’Right, and Shaymar.
During the past 22 years Ruth actively attended Andrus Street Church of God, where she and her husband previously pastored and also attended Calvary Baptist Church with her family.
Ruth and her husband, LaVail, ministered in Michigan for over 50 years pastoring churches in Munising, Cash, Port Huron, and Battle Creek. She spent the majority of her life serving God, her family, and others.
She liked to stay busy and work with her hands, baking, cleaning, gardening, sewing, crocheting, and decorating among other activities. She loved to serve and could work circles around most people. She continued visiting and ministering to people after her husbands’ passing in 1993 until she could no longer drive. Many people have been blessed by her homemade bread and cookies.
Ruth spent the last 7 years in the care of, and surrounded by, her family. She will be greatly missed but has left a great legacy and is home now in the presence of Jesus and reunited with LaVail.
Graveside interment service at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge MI, Tuesday, July 14, 2015.
A Memorial Open House was held at CityLinC Ministries, Battle Creek, MI, Tuesday, July 14th, 2015.
Ruth's family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the phenomenal staff of Centracare, Pennfield Premier Living and the Cretsinger family, and Bronson Hospice BC, for their exceptional, compassionate care of mom and support for our family.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial donations be made to The Gideons International, Nashville, Tennessee or Andrus St. Church of God, Battle Creek, MI.
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CLASS of 1939
Virginia "Vogt" Vance
August 3, 1922 - April 11, 2014
Virginia Brett Vogt Vance, 91, long-time resident of East Jordan, died Friday, April 11, 2014 at Autumn Joy Assisted Living Facility in Hayes Township.
She was born August 3, 1922 in Grand Ledge to Harrison and Blanche (Brett) Vogt.
She graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1939 and from Michigan State College in 1943 with a Bachelor of Science degree in home economics.
On July 12, 1942 she married Bryce Vance in Grand Ledge. They made their home on the Vance family farm in Echo Township. Bryce died July 22, 1987.
Virginia was a county extension agent and asparagus grower. She taught home economics and algebra in several area schools and was also a school librarian. She will be greatly missed by family and friends.
She is survived by her brother Richard (Florence) Vogt of St. Paul, Minnesota, sisters-in-law Jane Tennant and Patricia Schloop, best friend Shelby Ziegler and many loyal nieces and nephews as well as a large group of former students. She was preceded in death by half-brothers Dale Vogt and Lynden Vogt.
The family extends special thanks to the Autumn Joy staff for their compassionate care and to Shelby Ziegler for her innumerable kindnesses.
A memorial service was held on Saturday, May 17,2014 at at the East Jordan United Methodist Church with Pastor Rap Posnik officiating. For those wishing to make memorial contributions the family suggests the East Jordan United Methodist Church.
Arrangements were made by Hastings Funeral Home in Ellsworth.
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CLASS of 1939
Wendell E. Wilkins
October 24, 1921 - December 15, 2016
Wendell E. Wilkins, 95, lifetime area resident, born October 24, 1921, passed away at home December 15, 2016. Wendell graduated from Grand Ledge High School, Class of 1939, attended Michigan State Agricultural College, and served in the U.S. Army during WWII. He was a retired farmer and retired employee with 36 years for Clark Construction Co. of Lansing. Wendell was a former mayor and councilman for the City of Grand Ledge; lifetime member of Grand Ledge Masonic Lodge #179; member of the Grand Ledge First United Methodist Church, and member of Cole-Briggs American Legion Post 48.
Survivors include his wife of 74 years, Jean, son Mark (Sandy) Wilkins, Linda (Rick) Olsen; five grandchildren: Nicole (Josh) Charter, Amy Wilkins, Adam (Hiram) Wilkins, Meredith Olsen, and Jonathan Olsen; three great grandchildren: Celia, Bailey, and Madison.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, December 20, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at the Grand Ledge First United Methodist Church, 411 Harrison St., with Military Honors to follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. Visitation will be held Monday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to the Grand Ledge First United Methodist Church Memorial Fund.
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CLASS of 1940
Richard C. Rosier
January 28, 1922 - December 19, 2016
Richard C. Rosier, 94, passed away at home on December 19, 2016. He was born January 28, 1922 in Westphalia Twp., Clinton Co., MI, son of Louis and Cora (Bentley) Rosier. Richard was a lifetime area farmer and retired from the U.S. Postal Service. He was a member of Wacousta Community United Methodist Church; past master and life member of Wacousta-Dewitt Lodge #359 F. & A.M., past patron and life member of Wacousta Chapter #133 O.E.S., 332nd Degree Mason, and member of the Shriners.
Survivors include his loving wife of 72 years, Elizabeth ‘Betty’ (Rowland), son Russell Rosier (Barbara Ryden), daughters, Carolyn (Don) Jones and Marjorie (Mark) Gober; 8 grandchildren: Andy (D’rtania) Rosier, Jason Preidis, Angela Frazier, Gabriel (Emily) White, Megan (Ryan) Keast, Chad Gober, Corri (Matt) Mooney, and Caleb Gober; 12 great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brothers Earl and Neil, sisters Helen Larson and Mildred Morris.
Funeral services will be held Friday, December 23, 2016 – 11:00 a.m. at Wacousta Community United Methodist Church, 9180 Herbison Road, Eagle (Watertown Twp.). Interment at Wacousta Cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., with Masonic Services beginning 7:30 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Memorial contributions may be made to Wacousta Community United Methodist Church or Sparrow Hospice.
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CLASS of 1940
Cecilia Ethel "Stevens" Stambaugh
January 20, 1922 - March 12, 2017
Cecilia Ethel “Stevens” Stambaugh of St. Louis formerly of Grand Ledge passed away March 12, 2017. Cecilia was born January 20, 1922 in Port Huron, Michigan to the late Theodore and Sally (Simon) Stevens. Cecilia was a retired licensed beautician and practical nurse. She enjoyed to crochet, read, and was a wonderful cook. Cecilia liked to be a host and have people over to the house and always looked forward to spending time with her family.
She is survived by her children, Darrel (Kathy) of Arizona, Marlene (Raymond) Crenshaw of Delta Twp., and Marilyn (Edward) Davis of St. Louis; 10 grandchildren; numerous great and great great grandchildren; siblings, Jerome (Lois) LaFontzee of Evart and June Ann Hazen of Grand Ledge. Cecilia was preceded in death by husband, C. Duane on October 19, 1998 along with sisters, Mary Ross and Joan Lancaster.
A memorial service will be held at a later time. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
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CLASS of 1940
Mary "Dixon" Pridgeon
July 5, 1922 - January 18, 2017
Age 94, passed away Wednesday, January 18, 2017 at Oakview Terrace. She was born in Grand Ledge, MI on July 5, 1922, the last of six children of Clayton and Elenora (Sanders) Dixon. At age 11, both parents died, but Mary Louise persevered and graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1940. She attended Parsons Business School in Kalamazoo and was Vice President of the local chapter of the Alpha Iota Sorority. Her first job after graduation was secretary at the Centerville Sanitarium in Centerville, MI. At that time, Mary met her future husband, Warren Troyer Pridgeon. They married on August 15, 1942, settling in Kalamazoo, and they were married for 73 years, until his death in 2015. For many years Mary Louise worked at the Brown Company in Kalamazoo. Over the years, Warren and Mary Louise attended Simpson United Methodist Church, Westwood United Methodist, Kalamazoo Wesleyan and Westwood Church of God (now Grace Harbor Church). Mary Louise’s passion in life was to serve the Lord Jesus in raising her children and serving the community. In the early 1960’s, she was Chairman of the Women’s Division of the Kalamazoo Safety Council and, beginning in the early 1970’s, served as a volunteer mentor for mothers receiving assistance under the Aid to Dependent Children program. She also started Bible clubs for children at Patwood, a low income housing project in Kalamazoo. For many years, she and Warren made work trips to the Southwest Indian School in Arizona. Mary Louise also made a short term mission trip to Ecuador. She served as president of the Ladies Auxiliary at the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission. She started many small prayer groups and was a prayer counselor in many evangelistic crusades that came through Kalamazoo. Toward the end of her life, she led Bible studies and craft activities at various nursing homes. Mary Louise is survived by her children, Nancy (Mike) Chase and Jim (Joy) Pridgeon; and grandchildren, Tim (Caroline), Andrew, Marie and Joanna Chase, Matthew, Emily and Michael Pridgeon.
A memorial service to celebrate Mary Louise's life was held on Saturday, January 28, 2017 at Grace Harbor Church. Visitation was held at Joldersma & Klein Funeral Home on Friday, January 27, 2017. Burial took place at Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park.
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CLASS of 1941
Keith "Tom" Husted
June 11, 1923 - February 4, 2017
Keith “Tom” Husted age 93, lifelong Wacousta resident went home to Jesus on February 4, 2017. Tom was born June 11, 1923 in Wacousta to Troy and Josephine Husted.
Tom was a Grand Ledge High School graduate Class of 1941, was a WW II Army Veteran, lifetime American Legion Cole-Briggs Post 48 member, and longtime faithful member of Mt. Hope Church. Tom was retired from Carlings Black Label Distribution. Tom along with his wife Jake and their family were blessed to celebrate seventy-one years of marriage on February 2, 2017.
Tom was preceded in death by his son, Gregory in 2009. He is survived by his loving wife of 71 years, B. Jean “Jake” Husted; daughter, Laurie (Dave) Staley; granddaughter, Brinah (Josh) Staley Cook; grandsons, Bronson Staley, Evan and Ryan Husted; great granddaughter, Delaney Cook; daughter-in-law, Sandy Husted along with several sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.
A private family military graveside service will be held at the Wacousta Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to the Capital Area Humane Society or to the family to be used according to their wishes. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
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CLASS of 1942
Dr. Mary Alexander" Cain
December 15, 1924 - October 1, 2016
Kalamazoo
Dr. Mary Alexander Cain, retired Professor Emeritus of Education at Western Michigan University, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 1, 2016 at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan, with family present. She was 91 years old. Mary was born December 15, 1924 in Lansing, Michigan, the only daughter of Ethel Rogers Alexander and Rutgers Alexander. Raised in Grand Ledge, Michigan, she was valedictorian of the Grand Ledge High School class of 1942. She graduated cum laude with a Bachelor's degree in education from the University of Michigan in 1946, with Phi Beta Kappa, Phi Kappa Phi, Phi Lambda Theta & Alpha Lambda Delta awards, and went on to earn her Master's degree in Teaching in the Elementary School from Western Michigan University in 1961, and her Ph.D. in Education Psychology and Child Development from Michigan State University in 1970. Mary retired in 1992 as Professor of Education and Professional Development after a 31 year teaching career. She taught on many areas of education including human development, learning, child-rearing, gender roles, parent education, social and political influences on the family, early childhood education, field supervision, classroom organization and management, and systems for developing pro-social behavior. She was also active in the faculty senate and chaired the committee for the development of undergraduate education. Over her career, she received a number of awards including the Woman of the Year Award (1978 & 1986), the Distinguished Service Award (1991), the Preeminent Pioneers Award (1991), from Western Michigan University; the Distinguished Faculty Award from the Michigan Association of Governing Boards (1985); the President's Award - Michigan Conference, from the American Association of University Professors (1988); and the Distinguished Teaching Award from the Michigan State Legislature (1991). Following her retirement from WMU, Mary served for over a decade as an evaluator for federally funded literacy programs. Mary spent her adult life working for justice and equal rights for all people. She was active in Action Now, chairing the committee working towards improvements in Kalamazoo public education to provide equal educational opportunity for all. A champion of equal rights for women, she developed the non-sexist education curriculum at Western Michigan University, and published the book Boys and Girls Together in 1981. She was an active member of the American Association of University Professors, serving as President 1983 through 1986, and earning the AAUP Presidential Award for outstanding service. After retirement, Mary worked with others to form the Western Association of Retired Faculty (WARF) to ensure that retired WMU faculty have a voice in decisions regarding their retirement benefits. Mary was an accomplished quilter, a member of the Log Cabin Quilters, and often presented personalized gifts of her work to family and friends. She was also interested in music and theater, frequently attending local theatrical events as well as making yearly visits to Stratford, Ontario to enjoy Shakespeare with friends.
Mary is survived by her daughter, Rachel Cain of White Bear Lake, MN; her daughter Hester Klinesteker and son-in-law Mark Klinesteker of Fair Oaks, CA; her son Gregory Cain of West Sacramento, CA; her granddaughter Sarah Davidson and grandson-in-law Alexander Baugh of Philadelphia, PA; her grandson Edward Folly of St. Paul MN; her grandson Christopher Bryant of Tallahassee, FL; her grandson Benjamin Bryant of Seattle, WA.; and her great grandson Jasper Roux Baugh of Philadelphia PA. She was predeceased by grandson Alexander Bryant of Tallahassee, FL. A visitation will be held at Langeland Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick St., Kalamazoo, Michigan, on Thursday, October 6, 2016 from 3:00 to 5:00pm. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery, 301 Oakwood St, Grand Ledge, MI 48837, Friday, October 7, 2016 at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Farmer’s Alley Theatre, Kalamazoo, Michigan or the Department of Theater, College of Fine Arts, Western Michigan University.
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CLASS of 1942
Dora "McDonough" Morse
September 19, 1924 - January 24, 2015
Holt
A loving wife, mother and grandmother passed away peacefully at home on January 24, 2015. Born September 19, 1924 in Wacousta, the daughter of H. Judd and Gladys McDonough. On December 20, 1942 she married the love of her life Russel Morse. Together they raised their three sons and two daughters in Holt.
Dora is survived by her loving husband of 72 years, Russel; children, Grant Morse, Norman (Sally) Morse, Kandace Spalding, Denise (Stanley) McLellan, daughter-in-law Karen Morse; many grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren; and her special kitty, Babe. She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Margaret and three brothers, Howard, Melvin and Lloyd McDonough; son, Brett Morse; grandsons, Freddie and Brian Morse; and daughter-in-law Sandra Morse.
A celebration to commemorate Dora's life will be held at a later time. The family wishes to thank McLaren Hospice nurses and staff for their compassionate care and support.
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CLASS of 1943
Norma "Baxter" Marshall
June 11, 2016
Donaldson, Oregon
Norma “Baxter” Marshall, 90 of Donaldson Oregon, passed away, Saturday, June11, 2016 at the age of 90.
Norma was raised in Grand Ledge, Michigan and was a graduate of Grand Ledge High School, the class of 1943.
Survivors include two children; Doug and his wife Lisa; and Pam (Nick) Napier of California; grandchildren Aron and family, of Cape Town South Africa; and Josh and family of Louisville Kentucky.
Norma also leaves behind her brother, Stanley Baxter, Larry Baxter, sister Carole Baxter Hart, and sister-in-law, Harriet Baxter; as well as six grandchildren.
A private Internment was held at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon, on Monday, June 13, 2016.
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CLASS of 1943
Trillis "Eaton" Boyer
September 26, 1925 - September 17, 2016
Chelsea, Michigan
A celebration of life was held to remember Donley W. & Trillis M. (Eaton) Boyer on Saturday, October 29, 2016, at 1:00 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea with their grandson, Tim Bristle, officiating. Private burial was held at Meadowbrook Cemetery in Mulliken, MI, immediately following the service. Don was born September 20, 1920 to Carl W. & Viola M. (DePew) Boyer. He lived in Mulliken, but graduated from Grand Ledge High School. He attended Western Michigan University for 2 years before World War II interrupted his studies. He spent 4 years in the Air Force during WWII. Don was a Conservation Officer for the State of Michigan in Washtenaw County for most of his career. In 1971, he accepted a promotion as District Law Supervisor of Pontiac Lake, supervising the officers of the 4 metro counties. He retired in 1980. Don passed away on October 15, 2007 at Bear Creek Assisted Living in Hudson, Florida. Trill was born on September 26, 1925 to Joseph E. & Mildred M. (McCully) Eaton. She lived in Owosso, Grand Ledge & Mulliken, graduating from Grand Ledge High School. She was a homemaker and a Dental Assistant at U of M, retiring in 1972. Trill passed away on September 17, 2016 at Golfside Hospice in Hudson, Florida. On November 9, 1943, Don & Trill were united in marriage at the Methodist Church of Mulliken. They lived in Colorado Springs during WWII, then moving to Chelsea, where they raised their 4 daughters, before moving to Milford, Michigan and retiring to Bayonet Point, Florida in 1980.
Survivors include four daughters, Doni Doering of Bedford, IN, Penny (Norman) Hannewald) of Plymouth, MI, Melody (James) Bristle of Chelsea, MI, and Terry Shoup of Riverview, MI. 8 grandchildren, Matthew (Amy) & Daniel (Brittany) Doering, Marcia, Gregory (Amy), & Mark Hannewald, Timothy (Anna) Bristle & Wendy (Scott) Carlson, Dawn Boyer-Shoup; 11 great-grandchildren, Cailey & Nicholas Doering, Branson Smoot, Natalie & Gabrielle Hannewald, Skylar & Karly Bristle, Trevor, Samantha, Matthew Carlson, Anthony Garbacz (guardian child); 3 step-grandchildren, Logan & Leslie Carlson, Stephanie (Ty) Robinson and 2 step-great-grandchildren, Maree and Merritt Robinson.
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CLASS of 1943
Margaret Louise "Green" Wetzbar
September 21, 1924 - March 1, 2016
Jackson
Margaret Louise “Green” Wetzbar, "Peggy" Louise of Jackson went home to be with the Lord Tuesday, March 1, 2016 at Allegiance Health at the age of 91. Margaret was the daughter of Vern and Claire P. (Brazee) Green, born September 21, 1924 in Grand Ledge, Michigan. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Howard T. Wertzbar; her parents; sister, Ann Selden; two brothers and sisters-in law, Jack (Joann) Green and Bert (Dorothy) Green. She is survived by two sons, Michael (Marcia) Wertzbar and Gary (Linda) Wertzbar; five grandchildren, Jeff (Julie) Wertzbar, Chris (Jeannie) Wertzbar, Michelle Wertzbar, Scott Wertzbar (Tim Philiphart), and Brian (Kathy) Wertzbar; nine great-grandchildren; brother, David Green; brother0in-law, Richard Selden. Margaret was a graduate from Grand Ledge High School. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who loved spending time with her family and friends. She enjoyed playing bingo, many games, riding snowmobiles, and Northern Michigan.
A celebration of her life was held at Watson Funeral Chapel in Jackson, Wednesday, March 9, 2016 with the Reverend Edward Ross officiating, with interment Oakwood Cemetery in Grand Ledge, MI .
Memorial contributions in memory of Margaret may be made to the American Heart Association Midwest Affiliate, 3816 Paysphere Circle, Chicago, IL 60674.
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CLASS of 1944
Betty "Patrick"Carter
September 19, 1926 - April 17, 2016
Age 89, passed away April 17, 2016. She was born September 19, 1926, in Lansing, to Merten and Clara Patrick.
Betty is survived by her 3 children, Stephen Carter, Mary (Richard) Carter Suurmeyer and Suzy (Richard) Carter Koths; 2 grandchildren, Bo Ferman and Emily (Reda) Al-Shaer; 3 great-grandchildren, Kareem, Rasha and Raneem Al-Shaer; and many nieces, nephews and other extended family members.
She was preceded in death by her husband, William H. Carter, in 2007, and her brother, Glenn Patrick.
The funeral service was held on Thursday, April 21, 2016, at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel. Interment followed in Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lansing Area Safety Council.
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CLASS of 1944
Shirley "Millard" Dayton
April 27, 1926 - April 10, 2017
Shirley Jean Dayton of Grand Ledge passed away April 10, 2017 at age 90. Shirley was born April 27, 1926 to Harrison and Christine Millard, the oldest of three daughters. She married Forrest K. Dayton and raised four children: James, Bonnie, Bill and Scott. She worked for Grand Ledge Public Schools for twenty-three years in food service at Holbrook School. She was an active member of First Congregational Church, past member of Altar Society, Congregators and Charlotte Clark group at church. She was a former member of American Legion Auxiliary Post 48. She enjoyed meeting friends at McDonald’s, playing cards and bingo.
She is survived by sons, Bill (LeeAnn) Dayton, Scott (LuAnn) Dayton; son-in-law, Dave Robertson; grandsons, Darren (Bridgit) Dayton, David (Jaime) Robertson, Andrew Dayton; granddaughters, Jill (Joseph) Fillingham, Laura (Rick) Reker; 10 great grandchildren, 1 great great grandchild along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by parents, former husband; son, James; daughter, Bonnie; grandson, Troy; sisters, Wilma and Joan.
A funeral service will be held Saturday, April 15, 2017, 11 a.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge with The Reverend Gregory J. Briggs, officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 5-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be given to the American Cancer Society, Mid-Michigan Office, 1755 Abbey Road, East Lansing, Michigan 48823 or Grand Ledge First Congregation UCC, 210 W. Saginaw Highway, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837.
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CLASS of 1944
Marjorie "Hefflebower" Zischke
September 2, 1926 - February 23, 2017
Marjorie “Hefflebower” Zischke, age 90 of Lansing, went to be with her heavenly father on Thursday, February 23, 2017, at her home. She was born September 2, 1926, in Freeport to Vernor and Ollie (Allerding) Hefflebower. Marjorie graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1944. On June 15, 1946, she married Lynden Albert Zischke. Marjorie was a loving, devoted farm wife and mother who enjoyed crafting, baking, gardening and embroidery. She was a member of Crossroads Community Church in Eagle.
Surviving are four children, Ralph (Vicki) Zischke of Lansing, Ken (Mary) Zischke of Lansing, James (Debi) Zischke of Leesburg, FL and Marlene (David) Arbour of Lansing; daughter-in-law, Julie Zischke of DeWitt; 12 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren and sister, Donna (Clifford) Stanhope of Stanton.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Roger Zischke; sisters, Arlene (Dorman) Tran, Flossie (Glenwood) Rairigh; Gladys Hefflebower and Frances (Edmund) Myer.
Visitation will be Saturday, February 25, 2017 from 4-6 pm at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home in Grand Ledge.
A funeral service will be held on Sunday, February 26, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at Grand Ledge Church of the Nazarene with Pastors Dan Cameron and Colby Hetcel officiating. For those desiring, contributions may be made to Crossroads Community Church, 13940 S. Grange Road, Eagle, Michigan 48822.
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CLASS of 1945
Aletha Mae "Barnes" Cosens
Aletha Mae Cosens (Barnes) of Eagle, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2016 at the age of 89. Aletha graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1945. She began her career working for the R.E. Olds Company. She retired from the State of Michigan Public Health Department; was a member of the Audubon Society for many years; enjoyed traveling and music.
Aletha was preceded in death by her husband John, her parents Russell and Mildred (Ike) Barnes, brothers Daniel and Carl Barnes, and sister-in-law Bennie Charlene Barnes. Aletha is survived by her three daughters: Lorie Paez of Grand Ledge, Ava (Don) Mayes of Haslett, and Susie (Mike) Herring of Eagle. At Aletha’s request, graveside services will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
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CLASS of 1946
Beverly "Kopkau" Simonds
December 9, 1928 - December 29, 2016
Kalamazoo
Beverly “Kopkau” Simonds of Kalamazoo Beverly passed away on Thursday afternoon, December 29, 2016 at Bronson Methodist Hospital. She was born on December 9, 1928 in Grand Ledge, MI, the daughter of the late Walter and Emma (Sanders) Kopkau. Beverly graduated from University of Michigan. She worked as a dental hygienist for several years. On March 26, 1955, she was united in marriage to Robert S. Simonds Jr. She was a member of First Congregational Church UCC in Kalamazoo for many years. Surviving are her husband of 61 years: Robert Simonds Jr.; their two daughters: Kathy Spilman of Kalamazoo and Carolyn (Ron) Kozlowicz of Darien, IL; five grandchildren: Elizabeth, Robert and Emily Spilman, Claire Kozlowicz and Nick (Carla) Kozlowicz; two great-grandchildren: Addison and Alex Kozlowicz; two brothers: Carl Kopkau of Englewood, FL and Gary (Sherry) Kopkau of Troy, MI; and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation was held on Tuesday, January 3, 2017 at Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 S. 9th Street, with a funeral service to celebrate Beverly's life immediately after at 1:00 PM. Interment was in Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, Loaves and Fishes or Housing Resources, Inc.
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CLASS of 1947
James Henry Baker
June 20, 1928 - June 9, 2016
James Henry Baker of Grand Ledge a loving father, grandfather and friend passed away June 9, 2016 surrounded by family. Jim was born June 20, 1928 in Grand Ledge to the late David and Wilma (McNutt) Baker. He graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1947 and went on to serve for six years in the U.S. Air Force. He retired as a tool and die maker from Demmer after thirty-seven years. Jim enjoyed working on his house, gardening, traveling and wintering in Florida. He faithfully served as an usher at St. Michael Parish and was known as Santa to his grandchildren, friends and the Grand Ledge community. Many people in Grand Ledge recognized Jim as he made his daily five mile walk.
He is survived by children, Debra (Dan) Szymanski, Chris (Scott) Vetter, Andrew (Kim), Eric (Mary), Matthew, Amy (Edwin) Kingston; grandchildren, Nick, Barbara and Joseph Szymanski, Wayne, Staci and Timothy Baker, Eddy, Cody and Susan Kingston; great grandchildren, Barry and Davis Szymanski, Emily Jones, Cheyenne, Bentley, Dakota, Hunter and Nolan Baker along with one great great grandchild on the way. He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara; son, Joseph and siblings, David Baker and Donna Shane.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, June 14, 2016, 11am at St. Michael Catholic Church, Grand Ledge by The Reverend Fr. James Eisele. Rite of Committal will follow at N. Eagle Cemetery with military honors. Visitation will be Monday from 4-8:00pm with a scripture service at 7:30pm at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. A memorial service will also be held from 2-6:00pm on July 10, 2016 at 45118 Geddes Rd., Canton, Michigan 48188.
Memorial contributions may be given to St. Michael Church, 345 Edwards Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837, National Kidney Foundation, 1169 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108 or the Memorial Honor Guard, Cole Briggs Post 48 American Legion, VFW Post 3293, 731 N. Clinton Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837.
Share your memories and condolences online at www.holihanatkin.com
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CLASS of 1947
Norma "Thomas" Barnes
August 22, 1929 - April 5, 2017
We'd like to inform everyone that Norma Barnes has decided that her work here is finished. She was born August 22, 1929 in Roxand Township, Eaton County, passed away peacefully at home Wednesday, April 5, 2017, and wants to let us all know she doesn't want anyone to make a fuss. Norma was always there for her family, which pretty much included everyone she knew. She was a farm girl and proud of the fact that she could keep up with any farmhand, never shied away from an honest day's work and enjoyed playing euchre. She was a great cook and when invited to dinner, always brought a "dish to pass". If there was a baby in the room, she would find a way to wrestle him or her away from mom for a little while. Norma was preceded by her parents, Lyle and Cassie Thomas and her sister Nelva "Sandy" Franklin. She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Harley, daughter Deb (Bill) Hansbarger, sons Randy and Greg, 8 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, sister Shirley Green, many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 13, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, with interment to follow at Union Cemetery, Oneida Township, Eaton County. Visitation will be held Wednesday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to the Ever Ready Club in memory of Norma Barnes.
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CLASS of 1947
Dale J. Benjamin, Jr.
January 19, 1930 - May 28, 2016
Dale Benjamin, Jr. Born January 19, 1930 died peacefully on May 28, 2016 from complications of a stroke at the Halquist Memorial Inpatient Hospice in Arlington, VA. Dale, and his wife Helen, were long-time residents of Delta Township and built and operated Benjamin Parking Lot Maintenance.
Dale served Eaton County for almost two decades as an elected official; first, serving on, and chairing, the County Board of Commissioners, and subsequently, as Eaton County Drain Commissioner. A lifelong Republican, Dale was Chairman of the Republican Party in Eaton County and enthusiastically campaigned with Republican Presidential Candidates John Connolly and, Gerald Ford, when he ran for re-election. Dale was a 32nd degree Mason and belonged to the Lansing Chamber of Commerce. Growing out of his upbringing as a farmer, Dale was a lifelong conservationist and chaired the Eaton County Parks and Recreation advisory board. Prior to his marriage in 1955, Dale served in the Michigan National Guard. Dale and Helen travelled extensively by motorhome and belonged to many motorhome clubs.
Dale was the youngest son of Dale Benjamin, Sr. and Evelyn Merry Benjamin. Dale was predeceased by his son, Thomas Benjamin, and is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Helen Irene Benjamin (nee Padgham) his daughter, Sharon Benjamin-Bothwell, Ph.D., son-in-law Robert Bothwell of Alexandria, Virginia and two grandsons, Matthew (and Trisha) Benjamin of Newaygo, Michigan and Marshall (Tina) Benjamin of Brohman, Michigan and many other loving family members including several great-grandchildren.
Family and friends may call after 10AM, Friday June 3, 2016 at Peters & Murray Funeral Home in Grand Ledge, MI with a funeral service to follow at 11AM and interment immediately after at Delta Center Cemetery. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com.
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CLASS of 1947
John Doane
April 12, 2017
Lowell, Michigan
At John's request no services were held. No other information was available at the time of his passing.
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CLASS of 1947
Virginia Elaine "Brunsman" Sablain
November 7, 1929 - January 24, 2016
Holt
Virginia Elaine “Brunsman” Sablain passed away on Sunday, January 24, 2016 at the age of 86.
Virginia was born on November 7, 1929 in Lansing, MI the daughter of Theoder and Catherine (Warner) Brunsman. She graduated valedictorian, from Grand Ledge High School class of 1947. She married Ronald Sablain on August 28, 1948. Virginia worked as a medical transcriptionist for Ingham Regional Medical Center, and Sparrow Hospital, retiring from both places. Most importantly Virginia was a full time pioneer servant for Jehovah’s Witnesses for over 30 years. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and grandson, Jascha Adamski.
Surviving are her daughters, Janet (Jim) Adamski, Nancy (Michael) Ayers, Rhonda (Mark) Nourse, Mary (Timothy) Sherwood; grandchildren, Jade Adamski, Jabrina Adamski, Josiah Adamski, Janell Adamski, Jasmine (Joseph) Holloway, Jalene (Christopher) Ivins, Rachel Hewitt, Steven Ayers, Brent Ayers, Angela Mcclanahan, Brandon Rigotti, Marla Becker, Dania Nourse; and many great grandchildren; and sisters, Carol (Paul) Schorendorff, and Ruth Donahue-Beigle.
Funeral services were held on Friday, January 29, 2015 at Skinner Funeral Home, Lansing Chapel. The family received friends at the funeral home on Thursday. For those desiring memorial contributions may be made to Jehovah’s Witnesses.
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CLASS of 1948
Phylis "Parsons" Willis
June 28, 1930 - October 3, 2016
Marshall
Phylis J. Willis, age 86, of Marshall, MI, passed away Monday, October 3, 2016 surrounded by her loving family. Phylis was born to the late Emory and Lena (Challender) Parsons in Grand Ledge, MI on June 28, 1930.
Phylis was raised in Grand Ledge, MI and attended Grand Ledge High School. At a young age she lost her father, and being the oldest she help raise her siblings. She met Howard Willis through mutual friends and they were married at his Uncle John Raymond's house in Charlotte, MI on December 23, 1948 in front of their Christmas tree. Phylis farmed alongside her husband from 1950 and continued for many years, until becoming a homemaker from then on. They milked 200 dairy cows, raised pigs, beef cows, and had an excellent hay business. Phylis also raised chickens and sold the eggs. In their youth, they joined the Young Farmer's Group. Phylis always looked forward to the meetings where they enjoyed playing cards, telling stories, and sharing many laughs. She was also a former president and member of the Lee Hustler's Extension Group. They enjoyed dancing at dance halls and were even members of a modern square dancing group. Phylis was excellent at baking and cooking, she was always trying new recipes and was known for her apple pie. She enjoyed collecting antiques; especially glass baskets. They even had a special wall built with shelves to display all of them. Phylis loved birds, flowers and humming birds. Most of all she loved her family.
Left to cherish her memory is her loving husband, of 67 years, Howard Willis; daughter, Mary Mogg; son, Howard R. Willis; granddaughter, Lauren Shuler; great-grandson, Matthew Shuler; sisters, Wilma Roth, Loretta Ball; brother, Ronald (Betty) Parsons; sister-in-law, Myla Layton; several nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and her cat Patches. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Family received friends at the Kempf Family Funeral Home-Marshall Chapel on Thursday, October 6, 2016. Funeral services took place Friday, October 7, 2016 at the funeral home with lay leader Tom Raymond from Gresham United Methodist Church officiating. A luncheon was held immediately following the service. Interment was held at Bosworth Cemetery in Olivet, MI after the luncheon. Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Heart & Stroke Association.
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CLASS of 1949
Frances "Tegels" Baker
January 18, 1931 - October 8, 2016
Frances J. Baker of Grand Ledge passed away October 8, 2016. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend and will be greatly missed. Fran was born January 18, 1931 in Marshall, Minnesota to the late William L. and Catherine E. (Hovland) Tegels.
Fran graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1949, was a longtime faithful member of St. Michael Parish and retired from the State of Michigan Department of Public Health. She enjoyed traveling, reading and music.
She is survived by children, Mary Jo (Gary) Kast, Jean Chapmen, Charles (Rochelle) Baker and Sara Caswell; 8 grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Anne Baker; siblings, Vivian (Norman) Kemp and Daniel (Mary Sue) Tegels. Fran was preceded in death by husband, Anthony F.; son, Peter; son-in-law, Joe Chapman; siblings, Katherine Kucsulain, Rita, Vincent and Dennis Tegels.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, October 13, 2016, 11 a.m. at St. Michael Catholic Church, Grand Ledge by The Reverend Fr. James Eisele. Rite of Committal will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday from 2-4 and 6-8 with a Rosary at 7:30 p.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
Memorial contributions may be given to Blessings in a Backpack Grand Ledge, P.O. Box 162, Grand Ledge Michigan 48837 or Sparrow Foundation, Hospice House of Mid-Michigan, 1110 E. Michigan Avenue, P.O. Box 30480, Lansing, Michigan 48909.
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CLASS of 1949
Jack L. Hankins
June 22, 1931 - May 25, 2016
Jack L. Hankins of Grand Ledge passed away May 25, 2016. Jack was born June 22, 1931 in Grand Rapids, Michigan to the late Jack and Ruby (White) Hankins. He attended Grand Ledge High School and was a veteran who served in the U.S. Navy on the USS Coral Sea during the Korean War. Jack served the majority of his career in law enforcement working for both Eaton and Jackson Co. Sheriff’s Departments and also the Michigan Department of Corrections. He was an avid deer hunter and volunteered with food donations for area seniors.
Jack is survived by siblings, Marjorie Darnell, Dan (Jayne) and David (Kathy) along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by siblings, Thomas, Joyce Cypher, Irene Plunkett and Mary Hankins.
A funeral service was held Saturday, May 28, 2016, 9:30 am at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Interment with military honors followed at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation Friday from 6-8:00pm with a Rosary at 7:30pm.
Memorial contributions may be given to Swedes Restaurant Food Donation Program, 89 W. Grand Ledge Highway, Mulliken, Michigan 48861.
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CLASS of 1949
Johanna "Abbruzzese" Parshall
January 29, 1932 - September 26, 2016
Johanna L. Parshall, 84, passed away September 26, 2016, in Lansing, MI. She was born January 29, 1932 in Ionia, MI, daughter of Joseph and Florence (Tully) Abbruzzese. Jo was a former office manager and tax preparer; also former owner of Myja’s Gray Wolf Inn in Grand Ledge.
She enjoyed playing in pool leagues with her son for over 30 years; also hunting, and cooking with her granddaughter Erin. Jo is survived by her son Marc “Bud” (Mindy) Parshall, granddaughter Erin Parshall and sister Jackie Bratschi. She was predeceased by her parents, son Michael, five brothers and two sisters.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, September 30, 2016 – 11:00 am at St. Michael Catholic Church, 345 Edwards St., Grand Ledge, with Rev. Fr. James Eisele as celebrant. Interment will follow at Meadowbrook Cemetery, Mulliken. Visitation will be held Thursday from 5-7 pm at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to GLEAP or Lansing SCI (Youth Hunt).
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CLASS of 1950
Robert T. Edgar
July 24, 1932 - March 28, 2016
Kalamazoo
Robert T. Edgar, of Kalamazoo, age 83, died March 28, 2016 at his home. He was born July 24, 1932 in Grand Ledge, the son of James and Edith (Adams) Edgar. Bob worked the sidelines at MSU Football games for 30 years, and for 28 years for the State of Michigan as a property manager.
Preceded in death by his wife Allyn "Lyn" Edgar in 2008, 2 sons: Kevin and Michael and by 5 siblings: Roberta, Edith, James, Jake and Virginia. Surviving are 5 children: Victoria (Karl) Erickson, Tim Edgar, Todd Edgar, John Edgar and Robert (Connie) Edgar; 10 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Family and friends shared food and drinks on Wednesday at the Life Story Funeral Home, Betzler-Kalamazoo, 6080 Stadium Drive; 269-375-2900. Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Thursday 10:30 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church followed by lunch in the church hall.
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CLASS of 1950
Onalee Marie "Heath" Kelton
December 1, 1931 - September 30, 2016
Onalee Marie Kelton of Grand Ledge passed away September 30, 2016. Marie was born on the farm in Eagle, Michigan on December 1, 1931 to the late Ellsworth and Beatrice (Gilbert) Heath. She graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1950, was a homemaker and went on to work numerous jobs throughout her life. Marie enjoyed and loved animals, especially cats.
Marie is survived by daughter, Stephany (Douglas) Elliott; grandchildren, Alyssa (Ron) Storms and Kevin (Casey) Snyder; great grandchildren, June Synder ,Mason, Skyler and Emily Storms; siblings, Ellen Baker, Carolyn (Charles) Volk and Robert Heath. Marie was preceded in death by son, Craig Stoicoff.
A graveside service was held Monday, October 3, 2016, 2 p.m. at N. Eagle Cemetery, Eagle twp., Clinton County, Michigan with Pastor Phillip McKinney of Believers Church, officiating. Memorial contributions can be given to the Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 W. Grand River Avenue, Lansing, Michigan 48906. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
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CLASS of 1950
Marilyn "Dills" Lyons
August 9, 1932 - February 2, 2017
Muskegon
Marilyn Audrey (Dills) Lyons, age 84, of Muskegon, MI passed away on Thursday February 2, 2017 at Trillium Woods Hospice in Bryon Center, MI. Marilyn was born in Lansing, MI, attended Grand Ledge High School and graduated from GRSBM where she also met her future husband, Charles Lyons. She and Charles (Chuck) married in 1955 and settled in Lansing where Marilyn was a homemaker raising five children before taking on the role of an elementary school teacher's aide at Bingham Street School, where all of her children attended. She loved nature, books, music ~ esp songs of faith, and enjoyed handcrafting her own cards. Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband, Charles F. Lyons; daughter, A. Renee Lyons, and sister, Gayla Schier. She is survived by her brother, Paul (Lois) Dills; daughters, Karie (Jim) Brunk and Sarah (Scott) Lingenfelter; sons, Evan (Noel) Lyons and Nathan (Jennifer) Lyons; grandsons, James and Alex Brunk, Jacob and Andrew Lyons, and Samuel Mace.
According to her wishes, Marilyn will be cremated; a memorial service will be held at a later date. Marilyn will be remembered for her heartfelt faith over the course of a life rich with experience, many lasting friendships, and a deep love for her children and grandchildren.
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CLASS of 1951
Carol "Reedy" Brookman
April 24, 1934 - December 10, 2016
Newaygo
Carol “Reedy” Brookman, age 82, of Newaygo passed away on Saturday, December 10, 2016, at Transitional Health Services in Fremont. Carol was born on April 24, 1934, in Lansing to Abraham and Alice (Mooney) Reedy. Carol was a graduate of Grand Ledge High School and the Grand Rapids School of Bible and Music where she met and married her husband, Stanley Ross Brookman on June 25, 1954, in Grand Rapids. Carol served for seven years at the missionary radio station ELWA in Monrovia, Liberia. For much of her life, Carol was a writer, publishing articles, children’s stories, Bible Club Lessons, and many “On Croton Pond” and “Healing Path” columns in the Fremont Times Indicator.
Carol is survived by her children, Karen Lee (Jeff) Conolly of Hillsdale, Michigan, and Paul Stanley Brookman of Newaygo; grandchildren, Jennifer (Tim) Ambrose, Julie (Chris) Maurer, Jeffrey (Kimberlee) Conolly, Gabe (Jill) Hulvey, and Robin Williams; several great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Stan in 2001; brother, Howard Reedy; and daughter-in-law, Dorothy Brookman in 2015.
Funeral services were held on Friday, December 16, 2016, at the Fremont Christian Church – Disciples of Christ with Pastor David Dickinson officiating. Interment was in Croton Cemetery.
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CLASS of 1951
Marilyn "Maier" Smith
June 23, 1933 - June 4, 2016
Marilyn M. Smith, 82, of Grand Ledge, MI passed away June 4, 2016. She was born June 23, 1933 in Watertown Township, MI, daughter of the late Lawrence and Ruth (Garlock) Maier. A graduate of Western Michigan University, she taught kindergarten in the Grand Ledge school district for 33 years.
Marilyn passionately pursued the preservation and promotion of Grand Ledge as the founding and sole president of Ledge Craft Lane, and noted member and advocate of the Historical Society, Opera House Authority, Grand Ledge Home Tour, and Color Cruise. Marilyn cared deeply about the Grand Ledge community, and she will be greatly missed by all. She was also a lifelong member of the Emanuel First Lutheran Church, Lansing. She enjoyed spending time with her family at their cottage in northern Michigan and attending Michigan State football games for 48 years, along with additional events on the MSU campus.
Marilyn is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, Norman, and many nieces and nephews and their children. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Arlene Brinkey and Loraine Kelsey.
A funeral service will be held Wednesday, June 8, 2016 at 11:00 A.M. at the Emanuel First Lutheran Church, 1001 N. Capitol Ave., Lansing, MI 48906, with Pastor Paul Lindloff as officiant. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. Visitation will be held Tuesday, June 7 from 2¬-4 and 6¬-8 P.M. at the Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice House of Mid-¬Michigan or Emanuel First Lutheran Church. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com.
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CLASS of 1952
Meritta "Bloom" Huver
July 18, 1934 - February 13, 2017
Meritta “Bloom” Huver, 82, born July 18, 1934, went home to the Lord on February 13, 2017. Meritta was a graduate of Grand Ledge High School, Class of 1952; member of St. Michael Catholic Church, where she enjoyed singing in the choir for many years; former member of the Sweet Adeline’s and Lioness Club, and an avid bowler.
Meritta is survived by her eight sons: James, William (Nancy), Michael (Darlene), Joseph (Sindy), John, Richard, David, and Daniel; four daughters: Loritta (Gary) Richey, Frances Martinez, Teresa (Jerry) Ballard, and Pamela (David) Shakespeare; 29 grandchildren, and 17 great grandchildren; three brothers-in-law: Norman, Thomas and Lyle Huver; four sisters-in-law: Agnes Cranson, Marie Atwell, Helen Huver, and Carol Huver. She was predeceased by her husband of 49 years, Leo F. Huver in 2001.
Funeral Mass will be held Friday, February 17, 2017 – 11:00 a.m. at St. Michael Catholic Church, 345 Edwards St., Grand Ledge, with Rev. Fr. James Eisele as celebrant. Rite of Committal will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. Visitation will be held at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, Thursday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.,with a liturgy service and rosary beginning at 7:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice House of Mid-Michigan or St. Michael Catholic Church.
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CLASS of 1952
Lyle L. Johnson
July 15, 1933 - September 5, 2016
San Antonio, TX
Lyle L. Johnson, passed away September 5, 2016 at the age of 83. Lyle was born July 15, 1933 in Ithaca, MI to Leonard and Verna (Sellon) Johnson. Lyle was a graduate of Grand Ledge High School in 1952. He served in the Army during the Korean War. He married Dorothy Henrietta Bishop December 14, 1957.
He was very dependable, a hard worker, big tease and was of the old school and to the point. He was a member of Lighthouse Baptist Church in San Antonio, TX.
He was preceded in death by his parents. Surviving is his wife, Dorothy; daughter, Deborah Johnson; brother, Harold Johnson; sisters, Linda Kloepfer and Cheryl Johnson and several nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held Tuesday, September 13, 2016, 11:00 a.m. at East Lawn Memory Gardens, 2400 Bennett Road, Okemos, MI.
In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions in memory of Lyle to the Alzheimer's Association , 225 N. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60601.,
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CLASS of 1952
Jean "Ladd" Lonsberry
December 26, 1933 - October 17, 2016
Jean E. Lonsberry, loving mother and grandmother passed away October 17, 2016 at the age of 82. She was born December 26, 1933 in Lansing, MI, daughter of Porter and Marjorie (Chriss) Ladd. Jean was a graduate of Grand Ledge High School and a former florist. She was an avid bowler; enjoyed horseback riding all her life; motorcycling with her husband, Ed and dancing along with him and his dance band; also cherished her friends at StoryPoint of Grand Ledge. She enjoyed boating the Great Lakes, especially her favorite spot…Point Betsy, and her greatest joy was spending time with her family at the family cottage on Lake Missaukee.
Survivors include her son Scott (Judy) Lonsberry, daughters Kim (Richard) Whitacre and Sherry (Thomas) Graham; 6 grandchildren: Michael (Allison) and Matthew Lonsberry, Taylor and Ryan Whitacre, Nicole and Kelsey Graham, brother-in-law James Lonsberry, and sister-in-law Kathy Turner. She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Edward, brother Arnold Ladd, sisters-in-law Nola Lonsberry and Joyce Ladd.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 20, 2016 – 2:00 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, with interment to follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home. The family thanks the girls at StoryPoint for their friendships and caring hearts for Jean. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Heartland Hospice.
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CLASS of 1953
Glenn M. Smith, Jr.
June 8, 2015
Petoskey
Glenn M. Smith Jr., 80, of Petoskey and Rotonda, FL, passed away Monday, June 8, 2015.
Glenn was born and raised in Grand Ledge, Mich., He then received his degree from the General Motors Institute and had a long career at Oldsmobile and Pontiac Motor Divisions in the sales area.
Glenn enjoyed his time on Walloon Lake with his family and friends. He loved traveling and was an avid sports fan. He spent many, many days playing his favorite golf courses.
He was loved by all.
Glenn is survived by his wife, Nell Oakley-Smith; his children, Debbie (Bob) Maples of Colorado, Greg (John Gehringer) Smith of Maryland, Gary (Brenda) Smith of East Lansing and Robert Oakley of California; his grandchildren, Heather, Jason, Ian, Grey, Gage, William and Eliza; great-grandchildren, Jasik, Adalei, Aksel and Ryder; and his sisters, Mary Ann (Don) Garlock of Grand Ledge and Marlene (John) Saum of Florida.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Glen and Thursa Smith; and sisters, Donna and Bonna Smith.
A gathering to share the joys of Glenn's life will be held at a later date in Petoskey.
Those wishing to remember Glenn with a charitable contribution are asked to consider the Little Traverse Bay Humane Society.
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CLASS of 1953
Gary J. Hershoren
April 10, 2017
Farmington, MI
Gary J. Hershoren, a resident of Farmington, died on April 10th, 2017 at the age of 82. Funeral services arranged by The Dorfman Chapel.
Location of Service: The Dorfman Chapel- main chapel (map to our Chapel)
Date of Service: Friday April 14th, 2017
Time of Service: 10:00AM
Broadcast of Service: A live broadcast of the service will be broadcasted on Friday April 14th, 2017 at 10:00AM. Please check back at that time.
Interment at: None: Just a memorial service will be held
Officiant: Rabbi Joshua Bennett
Shiva Information: The family will be gathering through Saturday evening at the residence of Ilene Harris 7160 Suncrest West Bloomfield, MI 48322 Phone: 248-432-7417
No religious services will be held.
Charitable contributions to:
Yad Ezra
2850 W. 11 Mile Rd.
Berkley, MI 48072
Phone: (248) 548-3663 or
Animal Aid Foundation- Email [email protected] Address P.O. Box 70033, Rochester Road, Rochester Hills, Michigan 48307 or A charity of one's choice.
Family Members: Beloved companion of Ilene Harris. Dear father of Mark (Deborah Donovan) Hershoren and Joel (Kathleen Ann Arnold) Hershoren. Dearest brother of Beverly (Vic) Hauter. Also remembered by many loving nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.
http://www.thedorfmanchapel.com/deceasedinfoR.php?rownum=3533
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CLASS of 1954
Peggy Joan "Reed" Baldwin
January 23, 1936 - January 24, 2017
Peggy Joan Baldwin, loving mother, grandmother, sister and dear friend of many passed away at home on January 24, 2017. She was born January 23, 1936 in Lansing, MI, daughter to Lawrence and Ethel (Wilson) Reed. Peggy was a daycare provider for many years. After her late husband, Richard’s retirement, she enjoyed six months of the year in Punta Gorda, Florida and also enjoyed 30 years at their cottage on Gun Lake. Peggy was very giving; kind, compassionate and caring soul, always putting others before herself. She enjoyed playing the piano and organ; above all loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Survivors include her daughters: Cheryle (Randy) Kemp, Penny Bensinger, Brenda Baldwin and Lori Kidd; seven grandchildren, nine great grandchildren; sister Shirley Pierce; many loved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 60 years, Richard ‘Dick’ in 2014, grandson Cole Brown, son-in-law Tim Bensinger, three sisters and two brothers.
Funeral services will be held Friday, January 27, 2017 – 12:00 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Thursday 4-8 p.m. and also one hour prior to service time. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society or Compassus Hospice & Palliative Care.
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CLASS of 1955
John W. Frank
April 5, 1937 - November 20, 2016
John W. Frank, 79, of Charlotte, died November 20, 2016 after a lengthy illness. John was born on April 5, 1937 in Charlotte, the son of Oscar and Helen (Worden) Frank. He was a Grand Ledge High School graduate and had served his country in the United States Marine Corp. On March 4, 1961, he married Collette Rose, daughter of Harold and Nancy (Farrier) Rose. He retired after 32 years at the GM-Oldsmobile plant in Lansing, starting out working on the engine block floor and retiring as a supervisor there. John loved cars, music, woodworking, and having coffee with friends at Willie’s Restaurant.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Jamie; and sister, Darlene Briskie.
John is survived by his wife of 55 years, Collette; son, Jeffrey (Linda) Frank; daughter, Marcie Julson; and four grandsons.
Services will be held Monday, November 28, 2016 at 11 a.m. at Burkhead-Green Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Pastor John Bailey officiating. Visitation will be held on Sunday, November 27, 2016, from 3 to 5 p.m. Interment will be in Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte.
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CLASS of 1955
Hilda "Griese" Goetzka
May 22, 1937 - January 1, 2017
Goetzka, Hilda M. Hilda M. Goetzka, age 79, went to her Lord on January 1, 2017. She was born May 22, 1937 to Frank and Flora Griese. She was baptized as an infant and confirmed into her faith in 1950. She graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1955. She then attended Henry Ford Nursing School in Detroit from 1955 -1958 where she received her RN degree. After her graduation, she continued to work there for 6 months. Hilda met her future husband Donald Goetzka in 1955 while attending her home church, Immanuel Lutheran of Grand Ledge. They married in 1959 and moved to Grand Rapids and then settled in Sparta where they started their family. Hilda was a registered nurse for many years eventually serving as director of nursing for Luther Home for 12 years. She continued her career into her seventies performing vaccinations for the Kent County Health Department. She learned how to play the piano at age 4 from her mother who played organ for the church and taught music. Hilda was steadfast in her Christian faith and used her musical talent as church organist for 47 years at Mamrelund Lutheran Church of Kent City. Hilda, her sister Lucille, and her mother Flora would all be church organists for their own respective churches. Her mother played organ at Immanuel Lutheran in Grand Ledge for 55 yrs. Her sister played organ at Calvary Lutheran in Lansing for 25 years until her death. Hilda's family had a long history of serving the church starting with her great-grandfather Pastor John Klindworth who immigrated from Germany and established St. Matthews Lutheran church in Galena, Il. where he presided for 50 years. Both of his sons became pastors, one of which was Hilda's grandfather, Gustave Klindworth. She was preceded in death by her Father, Mother, Sister Lucille, and daughter Susan, who passed away suddenly Nov. 14th, 1967 at the age of 7 years old. She will be deeply missed by her loving husband of 57 years, Donald; her three children; David (Tsering), John (Julia), James (Margo) and five grandchildren; Matt, Grace, Katja, Jaegar and Fiona.
Funeral services were held on Wednesday January 4, 2017 Mamrelund Lutheran Church located at 4085 Lutheran Church Rd, Kent City, MI 49330. Visitations was on Tuesday January 3, 2017 Hessel-Cheslek Funeral Home in Sparta . Any donations as a memorial to Hilda Goetzka can be sent to the Helping Hands Fund in care of Mamrelund Lutheran Church.
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CLASS of 1955
Dan E. Hankins
1937 - December 21, 2016
God called home one of his most faithful and loving Servants, Dan E. Hankins. A graduate of Grand Ledge High School in 1955, Dan went on to serve his country in the Marine Corps (1957 1959). Upon returning, Dan found a passion for the law, first as a Sherriff's deputy with Eaton County and then with the Michigan State University Department of Public Safety (1960 1969), where he founded the Tri-county metro squad. Dan took his passion for law one step further by attending Detroit College of Law (1969 1972) where he was the recipient of the Ben Probe Memorial Moot Court Competition award. While an attorney, Dan specialized in labor law and worked tirelessly to advocate for the unions of the hardest workers in the state until his retirement in 2014. In 2007, Dan felt a new calling--to serve the people of his community who needed help the most. Dan used his faith in God to found Manna's Market, a food, clothing bank and baby pantry which grew from Dan buying all the food himself, to serving an average of 800 people per month as a United Way charitable partner. Dan's belief in God was the foundation for which he lived his life, built his family, guided his marriage and propelled him to serve others using all of his talents. Dan was always there to encourage, support, and offer his hand to walk with you when you needed him the most and had a unique love of animals. Dan has been reunited in heaven with his Mother and Father, Jack and Ruby (White) Hankins; his brothers Jack and Thomas; his sisters Joyce (Ron-deceased) Cypher and Irene (Phil- deceased) Plunkett; his nephew, Chad Hankins; and father-in-law, Roger Flanigan. He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Jayne (Flanigan) Hankins, loving father of Elizabeth (Trish) Hankins and Jessica (Paul) Melson, beloved Papa to Audrey and Maura Melson, dear brother to Marjorie (Jim-deceased) Darnell and David (Kathy) Hankins, and his mother-in-law Janice Flanigan. He was a husband, father, grandfather and friend. He was the one that we all could count on. He will be profoundly missed by his family and his community, but we all take comfort in knowing that Dan had answered every call from us and has now answered his final call, the call home from his Lord. May we honor his memory by continuing his legacy of service to others in the name of Christ. God be with you till we meet again.
Visitation was held on Tuesday, December 27 at the Koops Funeral Chapel in Lake Odessa with the Rosary. His celebration of life was held at the Lakewood United Methodist Church at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 28, officiated by Randall Bertrand, Pastor of the Woodgrove Brethren Christian Parish, and John Waite, Assistant Pastor of the Lakewood United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, the family asks you consider honoring his memory by contributing to Manna's Market, PO Box 18, Woodland, MI 48897.
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CLASS of 1955
Richard Charles Northrup
December 23, 1936 - February 24, 2017
East Lansing
Richard Charles Northrup, age 80 of East Lansing, was born December 23, 1936, and passed away February 24, 2017.
Visitation will be Friday, March 17, 2017, from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. and from 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 1730 East Grand River Avenue, East Lansing, Michigan.
The Funeral Service will be held Saturday, March 18, 2017, at 3:00 pm at the Okemos Community Church, 4734 Okemos Road, Okemos, Michigan.
Arrangements under the direction of Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home, East Lansing, MI.
NO OTHER INFORMATION WAS AVAILABLE AT THE TIME OF THIS POSTING.
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CLASS of 1956
Barbara "Baker" Armstrong
August 12, 1938 — April 25, 2017
The Armstrong Family would like to announce that Barbara Anne (Baker) Armstrong, their beloved mother, has passed through the heavenly gates of Glory from her daughter’s home in Lansing, Michigan. Her brother Steven, several children, grandchildren, and former husband of 30+ years Douglas D. "Pink" Armstrong were at her side. Barb embarked on her glorious journey at 6:06 pm on the 25th of April 2017, and a graveside service will be held at Oakwood Cemetery in Grand Ledge, MI on Monday, the 1st of May at 11:00 am.
Barb was born in Grand Ledge, MI on August 12, 1938 to Elmer F. and Dorothea "Dorothy" (Bohr) Baker. She is survived by four brothers Richard (Dick) Baker of Enolia, MO; Harry Baker of Grand Ledge, MI; Daniel Baker of Lake City, MI; and Steven Baker of Lansing, MI.
Barb's greatest achievement is being the proud mother of nine children, Eric J. (Akiko) Armstrong stationed in Wiesbaden, Germany; Edward D. (Lot) Armstrong of Lansing, MI; Anne T. (Carl) Cranson of Grand Ledge, MI; Beth L. Armstrong of Lansing, MI; Aaron M. Armstrong of Lewistown, MT; Brenna A. Armstrong (pre-deceased 1972); Brent T. Armstrong of Three Forks, MT; Douglas E. Armstrong of Bozeman, MT; and Noah A. Armstrong (pre-deceased 1976). She has also basked heavily within the love and joy of her 13 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.
Her love of babies and children is evident by the many years she spent assisting young women with their pregnancies while working at Hannah's House, Inc. Her family asks that donations in Barbara's name be sent to Hannah's House (www.Hannahshouselansing.org) to continue their work helping young adults and their babies through difficult times.
The Armstrong family also wishes to send a special Thank You to the staff of Senior Community Care of Michigan PACE for their professional medical and in-home End of Life assistance provided during this sensitive period. Their level of experience, hard work and humorous attitude made this transition a smooth experience for both Barb and her entire family. Immediately following the graveside service there will be a reception at the Log Jam in Grand Ledge. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
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CLASS of 1956
Gary J. Brunette
January 12, 1938 - March 29, 2017
Gary J. Brunette of Grand Ledge went to be with the Lord March 29, 2017 after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Gary was born January 12, 1938 in Alpena, Michigan and was one of twelve children born to the late Russell and Lorina (Richard) Brunette. Gary graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1956 and went on to serve his country in the United State Marine Corps. He was a Golden Gloves Boxer, an avid golfer and huge MSU fan. He also enjoyed reading God’s word and playing the guitar where his first performance was playing in the high school auditorium. Gary retired from Michigan State University as a print press operator.
He is survived by children, Amy (Robert) Crawford, Karen (Timothy) Backus, Kelly (Dean) Austin, Gary Jr. (Alice) , Kristina (James) Vernon, Kevin (Amy) and Jodi (Cesar Guzman) Brunette; 20 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; siblings, Charles (JoAnne), Roger (Pauline), John (Linda), Mary Ann (Floyd) Reid, Danny (Mercedes) and Greg (Leona). Gary was preceded in death by wife, Dianne; siblings, Carol O’Boyle, Mary Lou, Kenneth, Richard and Donald Brunette.
A funeral service will be held Thursday, April 6, 2017, 11 a.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery with military honors. Visitation will be Wednesday from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be given to The National Parkinson Foundation, 1501 NW 9th Avenue/Bob Hope Road, Miami, Florida 33136 or Great Lakes Caring Hospice, 900 Cooper Street, Jackson, Michigan 49202.
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CLASS of 1956
Stephen Frederick Graszler
November 28, 1937 - November 2, 2016
Stephen Frederick Graszler of Grand Ledge passed away November 2, 2016, while surrounded by his loving family. Steve was born in Portland, Michigan on November 28, 1937 to the late Francis Harold and Helen Elizabeth (Humphrey) Graszler. He was a long time member of the Grand Ledge community and a graduate of Grand Ledge High School in 1956. Steve served in the Michigan Army National Guard in Grand Ledge and worked for Servomation for over 20 years.
Steve has always had a great passion for music, listening and performing. He was a vocalist and guitarist for the “Stardusters” band for many years. When he retired, he opened up the “50’s and Such” malt shop in a couple of different locations in Grand Ledge. In doing so, he was not only able to share his talents as an entertainer, but help others develop their skills as well. Steve’s priority was his family. He was very fortunate to have also acquired a community family and many special friendships along life’s path throuagh his many community involvements including Color Cruise, Island Art Fair and Mudge’s Follies. For these activities and others, he will surely be missed.
His love of music has been passed down to his family. Memories of Steve’s hobbies of motorcycles, admiration of classic cars, photography, family camping and boating, will be cherished as well.
Steve was an earlier parishioner of St Michael Church where he and his wife, Patricia G (Jenerou) Graszler were married over 56 years ago. He is also survived by his four children, DeAnna L. (Rick) Sheren, Stephanie G. Beals, Stephen J. (Carolyn) Graszler, and Bethany A. (Jack) Pahl; seven grandchildren, Lelia Thomas, Stephen Sheren, Stacey Rice, Phil Graszler, Shelbey Sheren, Emma Pahl, and Olivia Pahl; he was blessed with seven great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sister, Mary (Dan) Backus. Steve was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Lawrence H. Graszler.
A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 8, 2016, 1:00 PM at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, with the Reverend Fr. James Eisele officiating. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitations will be on Monday from 4:00 - 8:00 pm and Tuesday noon to 1:00 PM, both at the funeral home. There will be a luncheon held at St Michael Church Parish Hall after the burial.
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CLASS of 1956
Ronald G. Peterson
August 6, 1938 - April 12, 2016
Little River, South Carolina
Ronald G. Petersen, 77, of Little River, passed away Tuesday, April 12, 2016, at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, GA., due to complications following surgery. He was born August 6 1938, in Lansing, Michigan, to Albert Frank Petersen and Esther Georgia Monro.
He graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1956, and Western Michigan University in 1960. Ron was very active on campus, President of his fraternity, Delta Chi, a member of the Omicron Delta Kappa Honor Society, the ROTC, and President of The Men's Union Board of Student Government.
In 1962 he served as a Lieutenant Commander with Army Intelligence and Security as in Intelligence Research Officer during the Korean Conflict. He was decorated and honorably discharged from active duty in 1964.
Ron owned and operated several successful automotive dealerships in Canton, Ohio. His persistence and his deeply held work ethic was the basis of his success. He was a voracious military and history buff and lived by the Nietzche's quote: "That which does not kill us, makes us stronger." He felt strongly about mastering your fears and because he was afraid of heights and flying he obtained his pilot's license, he also obtained more advanced licenses which allowed him to fly by instruments and in twin-engine aircraft. Ron sold his dealerships and moved to Little River in 1992 where he decided to become a real estate developer and finished completion of Lightkeepers Village and the Marina. He owned and operated Waterway Properties and Waterway Business Center. He served on the Board of Directors of the Little River Chamber and was a Paul Harris Fellow with the North Myrtle Beach Rotary. He also served on the board of several local HOA's. He enjoyed piloting his own plane, sailing on the Great Lakes and fishing in the King Mackerel tournaments on the Atlantic. He was an advanced horseman and competed in dressage and cross-country events. He enjoyed woodworking, riding his Harley and spending time with his grandchildren. Ron was a lifelong, diehard fan of University of Michigan football, the Detroit Lions and the Detroit Tigers.
Ron is survived by his daughter, Julie Beth Petersen (Stephen Babik) of Aiken, SC; his son Eric Geoffrey (Ora) Petersen and Granddaughter Alma, of Anacortes, WA; and a daughter Kristen L Boulter, of Little River as well as two Grandsons, Carson and Holden Boulter. He is also survived by his brother Jim (Brenda) Clark of Okemos, Michigan; sisters Nancy Petersen and Janet (Phil) Hobbs of Tucson, Arizona.
He was preceded in death by his parents and Grandson Cameron J Boulter.
A "Celebration of Life" service will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family has asked that donations be made to the North Myrtle Beach Humane Society.
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CLASS of 1957
Gerald K. Berner
March 16, 2017
Gerald K. Berner, 77 of Nashville, Arkansas passed away on Thursday, March 16, 2017 in Nashville, Arkansas. He was born on October 11, 1939 the son of the late Karl and Orma Thornbury Berner.
Mr. Berner was a Major in the United States Air Force, a member of the Howard Emergency Amateur Radio Club. He attended the First United Methodist Church in Nashville, and truly loved remote control airplanes.
Survivors include his wife Claudia Hayhurst Berner, children and spouses Kris (Don) Hagwell, Kevin (Kimmie) Berner, Ellen (Steven) Pitt, Tabitha McMickle, Cynthia (Will) Jackson. Eleven grandsons Sean Hagwell, Cory Hagwell, William Berner, Alex Berner, Justin Russell, Charles Frantz, Robert Frantz, Chesli Jackson, Scott Shamrock, Brandon Shamrock, Alec Jackson. Six granddaughters Miranda Berner, Kayla Pitt, Lacy Pitt, Stephanie Dusza, Angela Rowe, and Jessica Moore. Three great-granddaughters Mylie Hagwell, Kynadie Shamrock, and Kinsley Simmons. As well as three brothers James (Sharon) Berner, Richard Berner, and Roger Berner.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Benevolence Fund at the First United Methodist Church in Nashville.
Cremation services are under the direction of Latimer Funeral Home in Nashville.
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CLASS of 1957
Jerolyn "VanderMoere" Johnson
January 2, 2017
Jerolyn “VanderMoere “ Johnson, age 77, of Bishop, Georgia passed away on January 2nd.
Survivors include her husband, Gordon Johnson; daughter Janice Johnson Madden; Sons Christopher Johnson and Ian Johnson; her brother Lawrence VanderMoere, nine grandchildren, other relatives and friends.
A celebration of her life will occur in Salisbury, Connecticut in the Spring of 2017.
Contributions may be made in her memory to the Alzheimer's Association (alz.org) or Highland Hills Memory Care of St. Mary's Hospital in Athens, Georgia. Lord and Stephens, West is in charge of arrangements.
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CLASS of 1957
Mary Alyce "Ansley" Strieter
December 29, 1939 - September 19, 2016
Indian River, MI
Mary Alyce “Ansley” Strieter, artist, counselor, wife, mother, grandmother and forever true friend passed away blissfully on September 19, 2016 at the Hiland Cottage of Hospice of Little Traverse Bay in Petoskey. She was born December 29, 1939 in Lansing, Michigan to Dorothy (Bester) of Harbor Springs, Michigan and Cecil Ansley of Reading, Ohio. Mary grew up on a 40 acre farm near Wacusta, Michigan and graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1957. Then in 1959, she met the love of her life and best friend, beloved husband Keith J. Strieter and married in 1960 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Lansing, Michigan. Due to Mary’s husband career at General Motors the family was able to reside in Antwerp Belgium for a period of time then returned to the states and resided in Shelby Township, Michigan till 1990, when Keith retired. They then spent time in Kansas City, Missouri before retiring in Harbor Springs Michigan.
Mary is the proud mother of four children, Johann Christ 1961, Teresa Ann 1964, Mary Louise 1967, and Susanne Elizabeth who was nurtured in at age 17 in 1986.
Mary Alyce attended college later in life and graduated Magna Cum Laude in 1981 with a Bachelors in Religious Education and a minor in psychology from St. Mary’s College in Orchard Lake, Michigan. She then worked in religious education for the Archdiocese of Detroit. She returned to college in 1987 and acquired a Master of Arts degree in guidance and counselling from Oakland University in 1989. She worked as a professional licensed counselor working in substance abuse inpatient and then moved to Harbor Springs, Michigan and worked at Northern Michigan Community Mental Health where she learned she had a gift for positively impacting troubled children. Mary retired in 2002.
Throughout her life, Mary was a gifted artist. She was extremely creative and talented with her sewing, knitting, crocheting, painting, quilting and jewelry making. Creating some of the most beautiful, blankets, sweaters, gloves, scarves and hats. Her quilts and paintings will be treasured family heirlooms for at least the next century. She was rarely seen without some project or book in her hands.
She will always be remembered as the fun Mom and Grandmother who made everyone smile. She had a way of making those in her life feel very special and loved unconditionally.
Mary is predeceased by Johann’s wife Pamela Ann and survived by her husband Keith, their 4 children, Johann, Teresa, Mary, and Susanne, Susanne’s husband Roger, 9 grandchildren, and 7 great grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of Little Traverse Bay, 1 Hiland Drive, Petoskey, Michigan, 49770.
A memorial life celebration for Mary Alyce Strieter’s was held on Sunday, October 2nd, 2016 at Transfiguration Episcopal Church in Indian River.
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CLASS of 1958
Gordon Eugene "Gene" Clark
February 7, 1940 - December 4, 2016
Gordon Eugene “Gene” Clark of Eagle passed away December 4, 2016 after a long and courageous battle with lung disease. He was born February 7, 1940 to the late Gordon and Ethel Clark. Gene retired as Captain of the Grand Ledge Fire Department in 1999 after over 30 years of service. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, and always looked forward to his many fishing trips to Oba Lake in Canada.
Surviving are his wife of 56 years, Claudia and two sons, Mark (Karen) and Dick. Also surviving are five grandchildren: Brittni, Jake, Kayleigh, Samantha, and Tyler Clark; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Mary and Ken Zischke, and special friends Rennie Brokob and Spencer Vrooman. Gene was a very loving and devoted husband, father, grandpa, and friend, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, December 8, 2016 – 11:00 a.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Visitation will be Wednesday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to Capital Area Humane Society or American Lung Association.
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CLASS of 1958
Larry Dobson
1941 - August 21, 2016
Larry Dobson, 75, of Leesburg Florida, died on Sunday morning August 21, 2016.
Larry was born in Quincy, Michigan in 1941 to Orlo and Virginia Dobson. He was the fourth of four children. He is predeceased by his brother Gene and sister Mary Ellen. He is survived by his brother Bill and many nephews and nieces.
Larry moved to Florida in 1960 to escape the bitter cold Michigan winters. He fell in love with the sun and his soon to be wife Brenda Ferguson in Leesburg, Florida and in 1961 he proposed to her after two weeks of dating. They were married on May 26, 1962. Larry and Brenda have two sons, Darryl and Kevin. Darryl lives in Draper, Utah, with his two children and Kevin lives in Edgewater, Florida, with his wife Donna.
Larry began working for Publix Supermarkets in 1960 starting in the Lakeland Warehouse. He retired from Publix as Store Manager in Gainesville Florida in 1999 after a thirty-nine year career. Larry loved working for Publix and was easily spotted in the Supermarket by listening for the sound of his whistling. He loved his customers and staff and made many great friendships over the years.
Larry’s passion outside of his family was fishing the many lakes in Central Florida. An avid bass fisherman, he loved sharing this passion with friends and family throughout his lifetime. He was a champion for the little guy and the down and out and was always quick to lend a hand to those in need without ever needing recognition for his good deeds. He had a great sense of humor, and if you found yourself on the sharp end of one of his practical jokes it was because he loved you.
If you happen to have sat in the balcony of First Baptist Church of Leesburg he attended, you might have noticed him wiping his eyes which were full of tears when the hymns were sung....the music spoke volumes to his heart every Sunday, and he always carried extra tissues as he always felt God’s presence in a special way.
Larry had been battling health issues for a number of years and finally succumbed to a heart attack. Nevertheless, he always kept a positive attitude and did his best with the cards he was dealt. He will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, August 26 at 2:30 PM with Rev. Tony Hoffman officiating at Beyers Funeral Home, Leesburg.
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CLASS of 1958
Richard "Dick" Love
February 25, 2017
Florida
Richard L. Love, 76, died Feb. 25, 2017. He is urvived by wife, Sharon; sons, Andy (Teresa) Love, Skeet Love; sister, Nancy (Junior) Jolly; grandson, Cody Brandt.
No other information was available.
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CLASS of 1958
David "Skip" C. Meredith
June 7, 1940 - August 31, 2016
David “Skip” C. Meredith, 76, passed away peacefully at home on August 31, 2016. He was born June 7, 1940 in Grand Ledge, MI, son of Verl and Grace (Sherman) Meredith. Skip was retired from Meijer Inc., served in the U.S. Navy and was a member of the American Legion Cole-Briggs Post 48, Grand Ledge. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Patricia, son and daughter-in-law, David (Jennifer) Meredith and daughter and son-in-law Suzanne (Richard) By, grandchildren: Jennifer and Christopher By, Madelyn, Lydia and Ellayna Meredith; sisters: Pearl Sealy, Marilyn Meredith and Lois Baker. He was predeceased by two sons, James and Gerald Meredith and brother Edward Meredith.
A funeral service will be held Tuesday, September 6, 2016 – 11:00 A.M. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, with visitation one hour prior to service time. Military Honors will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
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CLASS of 1958
James Lee Murphy
March 25, 2017
San Diego, California
No other information was available at the time of his passing.
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CLASS of 1958
Janet "Hutchison" Ripley
July 30, 1940 - September, 20, 2016
Charlotte
Janet L. Ripley of Charlotte, MI, age 76, passed away on Tuesday, September 20, 2016, at the Eaton Community Palliative Care with her loving family at her side. Janet was born July 30, 1940, in Charlotte the daughter of Charles W. and Donna A. (Baxter) Hutchison.
She was a 1958 Graduate of Grand Ledge High School. She had been employed in Medical Billing in the Medical Practice of Doctors Leeser and Joseph for 25 years. Prior to that had been employed for a short time at Michigan State University. She was a member of the Fraternal Order of Moose Chapter 1682 in Zephyrhills, FL, and the Charlotte Eagles Aerie #3552 in Charlotte. She was an avid reader and enjoyed traveling.
She is survived by: two daughters, Kimberly (Hal) Wheeler and Mindy (Chris) Weaver both of Charlotte; two grandsons, Tyler (Jaclyn) Ripley of Charlotte and Travis (Katie) Ripley of Texas and great-grandchildren, Max Ripley, Kylee Ripley and Beau Ripley.
She was preceded in death by 2 children, Randall Ripley and Jeffrey Ripley and her husband of 53 years, Gary A. Ripley in 2011.
Funeral services were held at 11:00 AM Friday, September 23, 2016, at the Burkhead-Green Funeral Home in Charlotte with Rev. Charles Jenson officiating. Interment will be in the Maple Hill Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may go to the Eaton Community Palliative Care in Charlotte.
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CLASS of 1958
Laverne Coral Smith
1939 — August 1, 2016.
Caledonia, Michigan
Laverne Coral Smith, "Smitty", age 76, of Caledonia, died at home Monday, August 1, 2016, surrounded by friends and family. He was born in 1939, in Lansing, MI, to Merle and Bernice Smith-McPherson. After graduating, Laverne married his high school sweetheart, Sharon Bowers, and began working for Michigan Bell. No one who met Laverne ever forgot his passion for fishing, cribbage or a lively game of euchre. His inventive nature kept him always on the lookout for his next enterprise. When not busy with his inventions, he spent time sharing his many adventurous stories with any who would listen.
He was predeceased by his parents; his brother, Bruce Smith; and sisters, Judy Smith and Leslie Crosby. He is survived by his brother, Arlen Smith; his sister, Maureen McPherson; his children, Kym Smith and his wife, Linda; Bryan Smith and his wife, Lisa; Eric Smith and his wife, Cindy; his daughter, Gwyn Smith; his grandchildren, Michael (Kelly) Smith, Melissa (Aaron) Balogh, Kymberly Smith, Matthew Smith, Rachel (Nick) Thaler, Joel Smith, Caitlin Smith, David Smith, Rachelle Smith, Benjamin Smith, Timothy Smith; and six great grandchildren.
Memorial contributions may be sent to Healing Eyes, Inc.
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CLASS of 1959
Garry K. Hengesbaugh
July 9, 1941 - October 10, 2016
Garry K. Hengesbaugh age 75 of Bancroft passed away Monday, October 10, 2016 at Sparrow Hospital. A gathering of friends was held on Saturday, October 29, 2016 at Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, Durand Chapel.
Garry was born July 9, 1941 in Lansing, MI a son of Lawrence and Leona (Harrington) Hengesbaugh. After High School he served in the Army. On January 9, 1971 he married Nanci Kramer. Garry enjoyed poetry, hunting, fishing, just being outdoors, doing different projects of all kinds, and his pole barn "man Cave". Prior to his retirement from Farm Bureau Insurance in 2007, he had been employed there for over 39 years.
Garry is survived by his wife, Nanci Hengesbaugh; children, Larry (Christine Morrow) Hengesbaugh and Staci (Shane) Wicke; grandchildren, Zachary, Jaclyn, Lauren and Tyler; mother, Leona; sister, Diane; sister-in-law, Sherry; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Lawrence; brother, Neil; and brother-in-law, Tom.
Memorial Contributions in Garry's name are suggested to the American Cancer Society.
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CLASS of 1959
Drusilla "Thomson" Kintigh
November 20, 1941 -- March 22, 2017
Here's hoping God likes BINGO because our loving, thoughtful, sincere mother will have him yelling out BINGO numbers for everyone who loves to play.
Drusilla Rose Kintigh, 75 of Lansing, Michigan passed away suddenly on March 22, 2017. She was born in Hastings, Michigan, on November 20, 1941, to Joseph P. Thomson and M. Dawn Burns (Walter).
After graduating from High School, she married her beloved husband of 56 years, Clark M. Kintigh. She spent most of her life as a meticulous homemaker and devoted wife and mother. She was preceded by his recent death, which completely broke her heart. Also preceding her death were her parents, a stepfather Walter Burns, son-in-law Brian Coates and brothers Patrick and Michael Thomson.
Surviving to cherish her memory are her children, Kamie D. Coates, Mitchell (Julie) Kintigh and Kellie (Scott) Kintigh-Witt; loving brother David (Joan) Thomson; 7 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild as well as nieces, nephews and cousins. She had many other loving family and friends, including very thoughtful neighbors. Her kindness will be missed more than words can express, but we know she is happy and healthy in her new life.
Drusilla will be remembered for her thoughtful, hospitable acts and her love for Bingo and Casino slots.
In Lieu of flowers, contributions honoring Drusilla's memory may be made to the American Lung Association.
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CLASS of 1960
Paul Dean Elder
May 10, 1942 - January 12, 2017
Paul Dean Elder of Chippewa Lake formerly of Lansing passed away January 12, 2017 in Big Rapids. Paul was born May 10, 1942 in Lansing, Michigan to the late Thomas and Mildred (Wohlford) Elder. He retired from GM and enjoyed spending time with his family at the lake. He was an avid outdoorsmen and looked forward to hunting and fishing.
He is survived by children, Gordon, Laura (Jon) Van Douser and Jean Dean; granddaughters, Ashley and Caitlin; great grandchildren, Kadin, James Jr. and Carson; siblings, Maynard (Barbara) Elder and Judy (Theron) Unrath. Paul was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon on May 6, 2014.
A funeral service will be held Thursday, January 19, 2017, 11 am at Liberty Church, Grand Ledge with Pastor James K. Roberts, officiating. Interment will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Visitation Wednesday from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Memorial contributions may be given to the American Heart Association, 2140 University Park, Suite 210, Okemos, Michigan 48864.
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CLASS of 1960
Carl Steven Lamb
March 7, 2016
Raleigh NC
Carl Steven Lamb, age 74, of Raleigh NC passed away March 7, 2016.
He is survived by his sister Linda Balzer (Dick) of Zephyrhills FL, daughter in law Eileen Lamb and grandson Turner Lamb of Poughkeepsie, NY., and his significant other Karen A. Skelton of Raleigh, NC.
He is predeceased by his parents Carl E. and Dora A.. Lamb and his son David Lamb.
Carl loved to bowl and was a member of Lake Lynn Seniors.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Carl’s name may be made to Transitions LifeCare. 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh NC 27607.
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CLASS of 1960
Marilyn "Provo" White
July 5, 1942 - March 25, 2017
Marilyn “Provo” White, 75, born July 5, 1942, passed away March 25, 2017 in Lansing, MI. Marilyn loved her family, dogs, and greatly enjoyed camping and canoeing with them. She also enjoyed gardening, crochet, knitting, and collecting watering cans. Survivors include her son Vance White and daughter Jody K. Neilsen; two grandchildren Samantha and Joseph Neilsen, three sisters: Sandra Free, Barbara Tallman, and Jessica (Mike) Bridges. She is preceded in death by her husband of 40 years, Bob White.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, March 29, 2017 at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, with interment following at Delta Center Cemetery, Delta Township. Visitation was Tuesday at the funeral home.
For those wishing, memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or American Kidney Foundation.
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CLASS of 1961
Edward Ernest Bodell
August 15, 1943 - October 21, 2016
Greenville
Edward E. Bodell, age 73, died unexpectedly Friday, October 21, 2016 at his home in Greenville. He was born August 15, 1943 in Charlotte, MI, the son of Lawrence and Gertrude (Hauter) Bodell. He was a union bricklayer, and an extremely hard worker. He was quick witted with a wonderful sense of humor, and will be deeply missed, especially by his wife, Frederica; children, Darin Bodell of Grand Ledge, Stephanie (Robert) Babbitt of Perrinton, Jessica (David) Ross of Ada, Andrew (Belle) Bodell of Carson City, and James (Angela) Bodell of Midland; grandchildren, Nicole (Mike) Stafford, Lance (LeAnne) Bodell, Robert Babbitt, Jordan (Jessica) Babbitt, Hollie (David) Henry, Lacey Bodell, Misty Bodell, Sara Ross, David Ross, Gavin Collins, Deegan Bodell, Kalvin Bodell, Asher Bodell, and Seth Bodell; seven great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Vicki (Terry) Brickley.
He was preceded in death by his son, Scott Bodell; his parents; and his brother, Larry Bodell. No formal services will be held.
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CLASS of 1961
Dennis G. Conarton
August 26, 1943 - January 13, 2017
Grand Ledge
Born August 26, 1943 passed away on January 13, 2017 after a mighty 7 year battle with cancer. His daughter, Andrea, and wife, Claudia were by his side, holding his hands to send him off on his next adventure. Denny was greeted by his father Lester and his mother Helen and many other family members and friends who passed before him.
Denny spent 28 years working for and then becoming co-owner of Eckhart Associates. After retirement, he worked for Adesa Auto Auction where he and his buddies enjoyed swapping stories to see who could be the most outrageous. Denny enjoyed spending time with family and friends, traveling, fishing, golfing, and visiting casinos near and far. He was an avid MSU fan and one of the best story tellers. All who knew him loved his sense of humor.
He is survived by his wife Claudia; daughter Andrea; brother Jim (Peg); stepchildren Adam (Allison) and Laura (Jason); and grandchildren Torrian, Sam, Lydia, Thatcher, and Houghton.
A gathering to celebrate his life will be held at a later time. Those wishing to honor his life may do so by making a donation in his name to their favorite charity or Capital Area Humane Society. Arrangements by Palmer Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Homes, Delta Chapel.
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CLASS of 1961
Ronald Robert Fox
September 11, 1943 - January 08, 2017
Delta Township
Ronald Robert Fox flew to his eternal home surrounded by his wife, children, and brother on January 8, 2017 at the age of 73. Ron was born on September 11, 1943 in Lansing, Michigan to Robert and Alice (Cook) Fox. He graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1961 and then proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1961-1966. Ron worked for General Motors until retirement in 1997. Ron dedicated countless hours to his beloved St. Casimir Church where he actively volunteered and participated in many groups, councils, and dinners. Ron loved golfing, bowling, fishing, but camping with his wife, kids and grandkids and generally spending time with his family was his true passion. Ron loved spending time with his grandkids and always supported them at their activities. Ron was a friend to all he met and was always willing to lend a hand to help.
He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother James (Val) Fox. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife Susan (Ellis) Fox; his children, Steve (Leticia) Fox, Tami (Josh) Brewer, Trisha (Joel) Gerring, Stacy (Weston) Barrett; his grandchildren, Daniel, Dustin, Alex, Aidan, Jessica, Madaline, Lillian “Bug”, Maxwell, and baby girl on the way; a brother, Dennis (Lisa) Fox, along with many in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
The Funeral Mass will be Celebrated Saturday, January 14, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Casimir Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. Bill Lugger as Celebrant. The family will receive friends Friday from 1:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Palmer Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Home, Delta Chapel where the Rosary will be prayed at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue Saturday at the church at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the 2nd Sunday 100th Anniversary Celebration Fund or the Advent House in memory of Ron and his passion for both.
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CLASS of 1961
LaVerne Richard Reed
August 10, 1942 - January 18, 2017
Charlotte
LaVerne Richard "Vern" Reed, 74, of Charlotte, died peacefully on Wednesday, January 18, 2017. Vern was born August 10, 1942 in Lake Odessa, MI, the son of Elmo Elwood and Cleora Mary (Shinevar) Reed. He attended Grand Ledge high school, where he met Judy Ann Priesman. The two married on August 21, 1965 and settled in Charlotte to start their family. Vern worked over 31 years for General Motors, retiring as a Union Representative for UAW Local 602. He enjoyed his time in the outdoors, especially camping and playing golf, and was proud of his family Ojibwa heritage. Vern enjoyed woodworking and home life with Judy. Above all, he cherished time spent with his grandchildren. He will be missed as a loving husband, father, and grandpa.
Vern is survived by his wife of 51 years, Judy; son, Orlan (JoAnn) Reed of Charlotte; daughter, Lucinda (Aaron Nowland) Reed of Lansing; grandchildren, Dr. Blake Reed, Steffanie (Jeff) Hale, Jenna Reed, and Maverick (Kirsten) Reed, Tristan Reed/Morrison, all of Charlotte, and Jocelyn and Kara Nowland, Erin Rose, and Cierra Burcham, all of Lansing; great-grandson, Ivan David Reed; sister, Katherine (Rudy) Utter; brother, Lloyd (Judy) Reed; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Loren, Ron, Robert, Bill and Jim Reed and Rose Burton Enness.
A private graveside service will be held at West Carmel Cemetery with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. The family invites friends and family to a memorial service at West Carmel Congregational Church at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 21, 2017. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Eaton Community Palliative Care in care of the family.
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CLASS of 1961
Nancy "Wilcox" Skinkle
October 28, 1943 - May 6, 2016
Nancy Ann “Wilcox” Skinkle, age 72, of Perryville, Arkansas passed away Friday, May 6, 2016. She was born October 28, 1943 in Prescott, Arkansas the daughter of the late Stewart and Helen (Loe) Wilcox. In addition to her parents, Nancy is preceded by her brother Kenneth Wilcox and grandson Cody Skinkle. She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Msgt (Ret.) USAF Ronald Skinkle of Perryville; sons Marc Skinkle of Springboro, Ohio Scott (Kristy) Skinkle of Perryville; daughters Tammy (Bobby) Covington of Hampton, Virginia and Shanna (Allen) Lovell of Perryville; two brothers, John (Barbara) Wilcox of East Lansing, Michigan Steven (Karen) Wilcox of Lansing, Michigan and sister-in-law Gabriela Wilcox of Puebla City, Mexico; nine grandchildren, Brandon and Misty Covington of Hampton, Virginia, Andrew Skinkle of Pine Bluff, Allison Skinkle of Houston, Texas, Megan (Jeremy) Boughton, Emily Skinkle, Austin and Sydney Williams, and Brooke Lovell; two great grandchildren, Kinsey and Karley Boughton all of Perryville; many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.
Funeral services were held Thursday, May 12, 2016 at the Harris Chapel with Bro. Steven Schlinker officiating. The family received friends from on Wednesday at the funeral home in Morrilton. Burial was at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock, Arkansas by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. Pallbearers were Brandon Covington, Megan Boughton, Andrew Skinkle, Misty Covington, Allison Skinkle, Austin Williams, Sydney Williams and Emily Skinkle. Honorary Pallbearers will be Brooke Lovell, Kinsey Boughton and Karley Boughton.
In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Arkansas Children's Hospital Foundation, Nancy Skinkle Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 2222 Little Rock, Arkansas 72203.
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CLASS of 1962
Linda "Finstrom" Houseman
October 14, 1943 - January 30, 2017
Linda M. Houseman, 73, passed away at home January 30, 2017. She was born October 14, 1943 in Riverside, CA, daughter to Hartley and Delphine (Englehardt) Finstrom. Linda retired from the State of Michigan, Riverside Correctional Facility. She enjoyed plastic canvas sewing and baking with her grandchildren. Survivors include Mikjell I. Brown, sons Dennis Shaw and Scott Houseman; 8 grandchildren, sisters Carole VanEtten and Hilda Finstrom. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother Hartley Finstrom.
In honoring Linda’s wishes, no services will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 W. Grand River Ave., Lansing, MI 48906 or American Cancer Society, 1755 Abbey Road, East Lansing, MI 48823. The family is being served by the Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
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CLASS of 1962
Sheila "Robinson" Packer
July 29, 1943 - July 16, 2016
Sheila Robinson Packer, born July 29, 1943 in Lansing, MI, passed away July 16, 2016 at the age of 72. From Lansing, Sheila moved to Ionia, then to Grand Ledge where she graduated from Grand Ledge High School; then to Virginia. She would often talk about her experiences living in Morocco, Africa and Panama, before coming back to Cadillac and finally Grand Ledge. She was a former employee of Tendercare and McDonalds; also a former waitress at Hilltop Restaurant. She liked doing puzzles, going to fairs, garage sales; watching westerns and game shows; also liked to bake, especially pies. Sheila had to have her glass of iced tea and her candy jar was always filled with mini peanut butter cups. Special thanks to her caregivers, Jan and Joan for her final days.
Sheila is survived by her daughter, Shellie (Ken) Himebaugh, grandchildren: Mallory Himebaugh, Holley (Paddy) MacDonald and Stephaney (Kelsey Pohl) Himebaugh; great grandchildren, Journey and Vada MacDonald, and sister Darla (Jack) Swan. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ordale and Phyllis (Gee) Robinson; infant son Randy and son David Packer.
A private graveside service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given in memory of Sheila Packer to McLaren Hospice or Capital Area Humane Society. The family is being served by the Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
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CLASS of 1963
Robert Lynn Starkweather
September 30, 1944 - July 8, 2016
Robert Lynn Starkweather of Delta Township passed away July 8, 2016 surrounded by his family. Lynn was a father, grandfather, brother and friend who will be greatly missed. He was born September 30, 1944 in Lansing to the late Robert A. and Meta M. (Dalius) Starkweather. He graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1963, went on to serve in the US Army and retired from GM as a press operator.
Lynn enjoyed bowling, golfing on a VFW League at Prairie Creek and meeting his “coffee club” friends at McDonald’s. His focus and source of joy came from spending time with his family, especially his grandkids.
He is survived by children, Shannon Dickinson (Starkweather) and Matt (Carmen)Starkweather; step-children, Greg (Lori) Crawford, Laura (John) Meredith-Crawford and Andrea (Scott) Harris; 10 grandchildren; siblings, Don and Donna (Richard) Mills. Lynn was preceded in death by wife, Brenda.
A funeral service with military honors will be held Thursday, July 14, 2016, 11AM at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge with Vicar Aaron Hauser of Our Savior Lutheran Church, officiating.
Visitation Wednesday from 5-8:00pm at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be given to the American Heart Association, 2140 University Park, Suite 210, Okemos, Michigan 48864 or McLaren Hospice, 1515 Cal Drive, Davison, Michigan 48423.
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CLASS of 1964
Gary Lee Debler
February 7, 1944 - November 8, 2016
Lake Odessa
Age 72, died November 8, 2016. Gary was born February 7, 1944 in Charlotte, a son of Edward J. and Rose M. (Felder) Debler. Gary was raised in Mulliken and graduated from Grand Ledge High School. He retired from General Motors, working in skilled trades.
Surviving are his wife, Colleen; son Randy Debler; step-daughters, Mandy (Scott) Jackson, Page (Scot) Neustifter and Kecia (Mike) Dillon; 8 grandchildren, Kyle Jackson, Rebecca (Tom) Prowdley, Shannon Jackson, Madison and Maison Neustifter, Ben, Megan and Nathan Dillon; 8 great-grandchildren; brothers, sister and extended family.
A celebration of Gary's life will be 3 P.M. Saturday, November 12, 2016, at Barker-Leik Funeral Home, Mulliken. The family will receive friends from 1-3 P.M. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to MacKenzie's Animal Sanctuary, 8935 Thompson Road, Lake Odessa, MI 48849.
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CLASS of 1964
Kathleen "Lear" Hasselbring
June 17, 1946 - May 2, 2017
Kathleen “Lear” Hasselbring of Grand Ledge went to be with the Lord May 2, 2017. Kathy was born June 17, 1946 in Eaton Rapids, Michigan. Kathy graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1964. After Kathy graduated from Lansing Community College she worked as a licensed practical nurse in home health care. Kathy was a longtime faithful member of Community Baptist Church and will be missed by many dear friends especially, Kathy Cook and Janice Arnold.
Kathy is survived by her husband of over thirty-years, Rick L.; children, Diane Peltier, Laura Mills, Kim (Brad) Butler, Michelle Hasselbring, James Mills and Lynn Sleeman; 13 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; brother, Tom (Peg) Lear and close friend and former daughter-in-law, Angie Mills. She was preceded in death by parents George Lear and Hattie Lear Baribeau.
A funeral service will be held Saturday, May 6, 2017, 11 a.m. at Community Baptist Church, 7832 W. Mt. Hope Highway, Grand Ledge with The Reverend Timothy W. Jackson, officiating. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. Visitation will be Friday from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge and Saturday at the church from 10-11 a.m. Memorial contributions may be given to the Community Baptist Church Faith Promise Misssions.
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CLASS of 1965
Michael W. Ballans
July 21, 2016
Michael W. Ballans, Sr., 69, of Lansing, died July 21, 2016.
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CLASS of 1965
William Lloyd Trachsel
October 22, 1947 - April 4, 2017
William Floyd Trachsel passed away at his home on Tuesday, April 4 in Englewood, Florida. A famous son of Grand Ledge, he grew up on Jefferson Street. He was a former state champion wrestler for Grand Ledge High School and a decorated Vietnam veteran.
He leaves behind a loving wife Connie, a son, William Trachsel (Monica), two daughters, Melissa Dagg (Tom), Krista Blubaum (Scott) and eleven grandchildren.
He will be greatly missed. In lieu of flowers, go have a cold one at Preston’s Bar.
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CLASS of 1966
Michael V. Chemacki
October 15, 1947 - May 31, 2016
Michael V. Chemacki passed away at home on May 31, 2016. He was born October 15, 1947 in Lansing, MI, son of the late Joseph and Betty Sue (Pennell) Chemacki. Mike served in the U.S. Air Force and retired from the State of Michigan Corrections. He was a member of the Cole-Briggs Post 48 American Legion and VFW Post 3293, Grand Ledge. Mike was an avid outdoorsman and sports fan; enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating and camping. He was a mentor to many and great friend to all who knew him.
Mike is survived by his wife of 38 years, Sylvia, sons: Seth (Tonie), Jordan (Lindsey) and Elton; three grandchildren: Aubrey, Adelyn and Tyson; two brothers John (Kathy) and George (Joan), and sister Laura Jane Chemacki (Mike) Nelson. A Celebration of Life memorial and luncheon will be held Saturday, June 11, 2016 from 2:00 – 6:00 P.M. at the American Legion Cole-Briggs Post 48, 731 N. Clinton St., Grand Ledge. Visitations will be held Friday, June 10th from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. at the Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
A Memorial Honor Guard Ceremony will commence at 3:30 P.M. Friday, June 10th. Memorial contributions may be made to VFW Post 3293. Online condolences may be shared at wwwpetersandmurrayfuneralhome.com.