IN MEMORY OF THOSE PASSED FROM
May 1, 2019 to April 30, 2020
May 1, 2019 to April 30, 2020
GLHS GRADUATES WHO HAVE PASSED
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1933
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1933
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Class of 1933
Mary Elizabeth McMullen LaBatt
August 11, 1915 -- October 6, 2019
In memory of Mary Elizabeth McMullen LaBatt, class of 1933,
who passed away at the age of 104.
Mary Elizabeth LaBatt, 104, of Big Rapids passed away Sunday, October 6, 2019. She was born August 11, 1915 in South Oneida Township, Eaton County, MI, the daughter of George Stange and Ida Faith (Otto) McMullen. After completing eighth grade at the Strange School District No. 3, Mary attended Grand Ledge High School, graduating in 1933. She entered Michigan State College where she met Dee Walter LaBatt. They married November 23, 1938 in East Lansing. Mary began her teaching career in 1951 at Dryden, Michigan where she taught Home Economics while completing her Bachelor's degree at Michigan State. She later taught at Burr Oak H.S. and Mendon Public Schools. When Dee and Mary moved to Big Rapids in 1963 she took on the newly created position of Special Education teacher with the M.O.I.S.D. While teaching for M.O.I.S.D., Mary continued to expand her Special Education knowledge, earning a Master's degree at Central Michigan University. Mary retired from teaching in 1976 after 25 years of dedication to public education.
Mary is survived by her four children, Peter (Susan) LaBatt of Grand Rapids; Walter (Judith) LaBatt of Dexter, MI; Barbara (James) Martin of Muskegon; and Elizabeth LaBatt of Big Rapids; four grandchildren; Michael (Marcie) Barton, Kimberly Ploehn MD, Philip (Angelic) Martin and Suzanne LaBatt; four great grandchildren, Alissa and Jessica Martin, Alexander Ploehn, and Jessica Barton; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was proceeded in death by her husband Dee and grandson Eric Barton. A Celebration of Mary's life will be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 12, 2019, at the Northland United Methodist Church in Stanwood, with Pastor Gary Bondarenko and Pastor Kaye Ferguson-Patton officiating. Mary's family will greet friends at the church beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday.
Memorial contributions may be made for Hospice of Michigan. Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Share a memory or express condolences at mohnkefuneralhome.com.
Mary is survived by her four children, Peter (Susan) LaBatt of Grand Rapids; Walter (Judith) LaBatt of Dexter, MI; Barbara (James) Martin of Muskegon; and Elizabeth LaBatt of Big Rapids; four grandchildren; Michael (Marcie) Barton, Kimberly Ploehn MD, Philip (Angelic) Martin and Suzanne LaBatt; four great grandchildren, Alissa and Jessica Martin, Alexander Ploehn, and Jessica Barton; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was proceeded in death by her husband Dee and grandson Eric Barton. A Celebration of Mary's life will be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 12, 2019, at the Northland United Methodist Church in Stanwood, with Pastor Gary Bondarenko and Pastor Kaye Ferguson-Patton officiating. Mary's family will greet friends at the church beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday.
Memorial contributions may be made for Hospice of Michigan. Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Share a memory or express condolences at mohnkefuneralhome.com.
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1940
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1940
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Class of 1940
Beverly J. Rouse Becker
September 5, 1922 -- September 27, 2019
In memory of Beverly J. Rouse Becker, class of 1940,
who passed away at the age of 97.
Beverly J. Becker, age 97 of Grand Ledge went home to be with her Lord on September 27, 2019. Beverly was born on September 5, 1922. As an infant, Beverly was adopted by her parents Charles Alan and Florence Christabella (Bucklin) Rouse. Beverly was predeceased by her parents, brothers, Bill and Wilbur Rouse and granddaughter-in-law, Felicia Becker. Beverly graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1940. She married Harry Becker in 1946; they were married over 51 years when he preceded her in death in 1998. Beverly was employed by Parsons Chemicals of Grand Ledge for 10 years before she was employed for 34 ½ years at Oldsmobile of Lansing, retiring as the Executive Secretary to the General Sales Manager. Bev was a longtime active member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Grand Ledge serving on various committees and the church council.
Beverly is survived by her son, Terry (Kathryn) Becker; grandchildren, David and Scott (Amber) Becker; great grandchildren, Scott (Tessa), Samantha (Harley), Sydnee and Spencer Becker, Cardin Lloyd, Bailey Lloyd and Riley Weishaupt; one great great grandson, Oliver Lee Becker along with nieces, nephews and cousins. Bev also leaves behind her Immanuel Lutheran Church family and will especially be missed by her Immanuel care giving team who assisted her in the later chapters of her life. A memorial service celebrating Bev’s life will be held Monday, October 14, 2019, 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Chuck Foerster and Pastor Richard McKenzie, officiating. Visitation will be at the church one hour prior to the service. Inurnment will follow in the Immanuel Lutheran Church Memorial Garden. In memory of Bev, memorial gifts may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, 517 S. Clinton Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
Beverly is survived by her son, Terry (Kathryn) Becker; grandchildren, David and Scott (Amber) Becker; great grandchildren, Scott (Tessa), Samantha (Harley), Sydnee and Spencer Becker, Cardin Lloyd, Bailey Lloyd and Riley Weishaupt; one great great grandson, Oliver Lee Becker along with nieces, nephews and cousins. Bev also leaves behind her Immanuel Lutheran Church family and will especially be missed by her Immanuel care giving team who assisted her in the later chapters of her life. A memorial service celebrating Bev’s life will be held Monday, October 14, 2019, 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Chuck Foerster and Pastor Richard McKenzie, officiating. Visitation will be at the church one hour prior to the service. Inurnment will follow in the Immanuel Lutheran Church Memorial Garden. In memory of Bev, memorial gifts may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, 517 S. Clinton Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
Class of 1940
Elizabeth "Betty" Rowland Rosier
August 16, 1923 -- August 3, 2019
In memory of Elizabeth "Betty" Marie Rowland Rosier, class of 1940,
who passed away at the age of 95.
Elizabeth “Betty” Marie Rosier, 95, born August 16, 1923 in Watertown Twp., Clinton Co., MI, daughter to A. Earle and Mabel (Wesseler) Rowland, passed away on August 3, 2019. Betty attended Wacousta School and then graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1940. She attended Lansing Secretarial School and then worked in the Oldsmobile office for 4 years. She married Richard Rosier in 1944 and to this union three children were born: Russell, Carolyn and Marjorie.
Betty was a secretary at Wacousta Elementary School from 1965 to 1985. She and Richard enjoyed their cottage at Chrystal Lake and later at Middle Lake near Hastings. They liked traveling in the States and also out of the country (England, Germany, Greece, Turkey, China, etc.). It was a pleasure doing activities with their family and friends, such as boating, playing games, euchre and bridge, and also enjoyed square dancing.
She was a member of Wacousta Community United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women; past matron and life member of the Wacousta Chapter #133 O.E.S.; member of Whirl-A-Way Square Dance Club; 21 year Meals on Wheels volunteer; also Red Cross Donor and volunteer.
Betty is survived by her 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; 13 great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband of 72 years, Richard (2016) and her brother Robert Rowland.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 8, 2019 – 11:00 a.m. at Wacousta Community United Methodist Church, 9180 Herbison Road, Eagle (Watertown Twp.). Interment at Wacousta Cemetery. Visitation will be held at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge on Wednesday, August 7th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., with O.E.S. services beginning 7:30 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Wacousta Community United Methodist Church or Sparrow Hospice. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
Betty was a secretary at Wacousta Elementary School from 1965 to 1985. She and Richard enjoyed their cottage at Chrystal Lake and later at Middle Lake near Hastings. They liked traveling in the States and also out of the country (England, Germany, Greece, Turkey, China, etc.). It was a pleasure doing activities with their family and friends, such as boating, playing games, euchre and bridge, and also enjoyed square dancing.
She was a member of Wacousta Community United Methodist Church and United Methodist Women; past matron and life member of the Wacousta Chapter #133 O.E.S.; member of Whirl-A-Way Square Dance Club; 21 year Meals on Wheels volunteer; also Red Cross Donor and volunteer.
Betty is survived by her 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; 13 great grandchildren, several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband of 72 years, Richard (2016) and her brother Robert Rowland.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 8, 2019 – 11:00 a.m. at Wacousta Community United Methodist Church, 9180 Herbison Road, Eagle (Watertown Twp.). Interment at Wacousta Cemetery. Visitation will be held at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge on Wednesday, August 7th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., with O.E.S. services beginning 7:30 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Wacousta Community United Methodist Church or Sparrow Hospice. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
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1941
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1941
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Class of 1941
Virginia M. Thompson Huxtable
February 10, 1923 -- February 8,2020
In memory of Virginia M. Thompson Huxtable, class of 1941,
who passed away at the age of 96.
Virginia M. Huxtable, 96, of Sevirville, TN, formerly of Grand Ledge, MI, passed away on February 8, 2020. She was born February 10, 1923 in Lansing, MI, daughter to Frank ad Hazel Irene (Church) Thompson. Virginia was a former employee of Diamond-Reo; retired employee of Delta Township, and a graduate of Grand Ledge High School, Class of 1941.
Virginia is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Nancy and Mark Graber and granddaughter, Lisa Baker, and sister, Joyce Dennison. She is preceded in death by her husband, Walter and half-brother George Althouse.
No services will be held. Inurnment will be at Delta Center Cemetery, Delta Twp., Eaton County, MI. The family has entrusted arrangements to Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
Virginia is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Nancy and Mark Graber and granddaughter, Lisa Baker, and sister, Joyce Dennison. She is preceded in death by her husband, Walter and half-brother George Althouse.
No services will be held. Inurnment will be at Delta Center Cemetery, Delta Twp., Eaton County, MI. The family has entrusted arrangements to Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
Class of 1941
Ronald C. Miller
June 16, 1923 -- June 25, 2019
In memory of Ronald C. Miller, class of 1941,
who passed away at the age of 96.
Ronald C. Miller, age 96 of rural Ovid passed away at Grace Haven Assisted Living on Tuesday, June 25, 2019. Ron was born on June 16, 1923 in Watertown Twp., MI the son of Clare and E. Pearl (Moffatt) Miller. He graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1941. On April 18, 1951 he married Mary L. Maddern in Evart, MI. Ron was a farmer all of his life. He was a member of Grove Bible Church and Farm Bureau. Ron served on the Ovid Township Board for 34 years, Ovid School Board and was on the Clinton County Board of Appeals for many years.
Surviving are his wife, Mary, sons Jon (Lynette) Miller of Elsie and Douglas (Jillaine) Miller of Traverse City, MI. , 9 grandchildren, 4 step-grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by son, Chris and brother Jack Miller and sister Violet Curtis.
The family will receive friends and relatives at Keck-Coleman Funeral Home on Thursday, June 27, 2019, 5-8P.M. and 1 hour prior to funeral services which will be held at Grove Bible Church on Friday, June 28, 2019 at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Brendan Holmquist officiating. Burial will be at Maple Grove Cemetery, Ovid, MI. Memorials are asked to be made to Grove Bible Church, 6980 E. Price Rd., St. Johns, MI 48879 or to Care Team Hospice 5409 Gateway Center, Suite C, Flint, MI 48507.
Surviving are his wife, Mary, sons Jon (Lynette) Miller of Elsie and Douglas (Jillaine) Miller of Traverse City, MI. , 9 grandchildren, 4 step-grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by son, Chris and brother Jack Miller and sister Violet Curtis.
The family will receive friends and relatives at Keck-Coleman Funeral Home on Thursday, June 27, 2019, 5-8P.M. and 1 hour prior to funeral services which will be held at Grove Bible Church on Friday, June 28, 2019 at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Brendan Holmquist officiating. Burial will be at Maple Grove Cemetery, Ovid, MI. Memorials are asked to be made to Grove Bible Church, 6980 E. Price Rd., St. Johns, MI 48879 or to Care Team Hospice 5409 Gateway Center, Suite C, Flint, MI 48507.
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1943
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Class of 1943
Helen Elizabeth Jones Robison
November 19, 1925 -- January 16, 2020
In memory of Helen Elizabeth Jones Robison, class of 1943,
who passed away at the age of 94.
Helen Elizabeth Robison, age 94, passed to the Kingdom of Heaven Thursday January 16th at her Abbey Park home surrounded by family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents Ivan and Emily Jones of Grand Ledge and by the love of her life, husband of 68 years, Robert (Robbie) Robison; and her son Bradley. She leaves to mourn her passing and celebrate her well lived life, sons David (Peggy) of Northville, Mark of Virginia Beach, grandchildren Corey (Sue) of Dallas Texas, Ryan (Susie) of Flower Mound, Texas; Amanda (Rob) of Rochester Hills with great grandchildren Grant, Pierce, Alexa, Drew, Kaitlin, Tyler, Lauren and Maddie. Helen will also be mourned by sister Millie Heslip of Northville, brother Dick Jones (Ann) of Grand Ledge, Judy Robison, Clinton, many nieces and nephews, and a host of special friends: Pat Gooch, Rosie Gregory, Jo Anne Jacob, Phyllis Burfess, and Lorraine Wiltz. A proud graduate of Albion College, Helen taught in the Linden and Flint school systems for many years. A serious bridge player, world traveler, marvelous dancer (with Jerry and Marsha assisting), and mediocre golfer, she made friends often and easily. Helen was a member for 60 plus years of First Presbyterian Church of Flint, and a recent congregant of the First Congregational Church of Grand Blanc. She was a life member of the Flint Golf Club, Alpha X Delta, The Mayflower Society, Ambassador Club, Sara's Circle, and the 2nd Monday Book Club. Helen lived a wonderful life, filled with an abiding sense of gratitude and characterized by kindness and a constant optimism.
According to her wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at Brown Funeral Home, 1480 E. Hill Road, Grand Blanc on Friday January 24th at 11 a.m. with visitation one hour prior. Reverend Paul Ytterock officiating. Helen's ashes will be inurned at the family plot in Clinton, Michigan in the spring. In lieu of flowers, please make any donation to the First Presbyterian Church or the charity of your choice. Special thanks to the Abbey Park family and the sweet angels of Abbey's Medical Team and Med Team Hospice.
According to her wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at Brown Funeral Home, 1480 E. Hill Road, Grand Blanc on Friday January 24th at 11 a.m. with visitation one hour prior. Reverend Paul Ytterock officiating. Helen's ashes will be inurned at the family plot in Clinton, Michigan in the spring. In lieu of flowers, please make any donation to the First Presbyterian Church or the charity of your choice. Special thanks to the Abbey Park family and the sweet angels of Abbey's Medical Team and Med Team Hospice.
Class of 1943
Florine A. Skiffington Wilson
December 28, 1925 -- April 25, 2020
In memory of Florine A. Skiffington Wilson, class of 1943,
who passed away at the age of 94.
Florine Alice Wilson passed away April 25, 2020 at the age of 94. Florine was born December 28, 1925 in Oakland, MI, daughter to Hugh and Florence (Rogers) Skiffington. She was retired from Ferndale Dairy and a member of the Grand Ledge First United Methodist Church. Florine was an avid reader; enjoyed traveling, and very much enjoyed spending time camping with her children.
Florine is survived by her children: David G. (Diane), Stephen J. (Jerilyn); Kevin M. (Robin), Kristin M. Maar, and Jonathon H. (Sheila), 11 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; brother, Ronald (Lilly) Skiffington; sister, Marilyn (Lee) Yates. She is predeceased by her parents; husband, George of 58 years; son-in-law, Alan Maar; daughter-in-law, Rene Wilson.
Out of respect and concern for public health and safety, the family has chosen to have a private funeral service on Thursday, April 30, 2020, 1:00 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Visitations from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Grand Ledge First United Methodist Church, 411 Harrison St, Grand Ledge, MI 48837 in memory of Florine Wilson. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
Florine is survived by her children: David G. (Diane), Stephen J. (Jerilyn); Kevin M. (Robin), Kristin M. Maar, and Jonathon H. (Sheila), 11 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; brother, Ronald (Lilly) Skiffington; sister, Marilyn (Lee) Yates. She is predeceased by her parents; husband, George of 58 years; son-in-law, Alan Maar; daughter-in-law, Rene Wilson.
Out of respect and concern for public health and safety, the family has chosen to have a private funeral service on Thursday, April 30, 2020, 1:00 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Visitations from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Grand Ledge First United Methodist Church, 411 Harrison St, Grand Ledge, MI 48837 in memory of Florine Wilson. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
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1944
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Class of 1944
Jimmie Anderson
April 2019
(NO OTHER INFORMATION WAS AVAILABLE AT THE TIME OF HIS PASSING.)
Class of 1944
Dorothy Lorraine Frederick Ford
November 16, 1925 -- October 10, 2019
In memory of Dorothy Lorraine Frederick Ford, class of 1944,
who passed away at the age of 93.
Dorothy L. Ford, 93 years old, entered into Heaven’s gates on October 10, 2019 at (Royston Ridge) an Adult Foster Care, where she lived for the last seven months. She is survived by three children, Gary (Joanne), Wayne (Carol) and Linda Schroeder (David).
A “CELEBRATION OF LIFE” will be held at the GRAND LEDGE CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE, SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2019, with visitation at 11:00 a.m., service at 12:00 noon with a lunch to follow. Dorothy is a donor to Science Care.
Arrangements by Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations be made to the Grand Ledge Church of the Nazarene 3432 W. Jefferson Avenue, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837 or McLaren Homecare and Hospice 2815 S. Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 4, Lansing, Michigan 48910.
A “CELEBRATION OF LIFE” will be held at the GRAND LEDGE CHURCH OF THE NAZARENE, SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2019, with visitation at 11:00 a.m., service at 12:00 noon with a lunch to follow. Dorothy is a donor to Science Care.
Arrangements by Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations be made to the Grand Ledge Church of the Nazarene 3432 W. Jefferson Avenue, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837 or McLaren Homecare and Hospice 2815 S. Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 4, Lansing, Michigan 48910.
Class of 1944
George V. Schraw
February 18, 1926 -- August 11, 2019
In memory of George V. Schraw, class of 1944,
who passed away at the age of 93.
George was born on February 18, 1926 in Jackson, MI the second son on John and Irene (Vining) Schraw. He passed away August 11, 2019 at the age of 93. George’s family moved to the Lansing area in the early 1930s and eventually moved to a farm near Grand Ledge and he graduated with G.L.H.S. class of 1944.
George worked for the Mill Supplies Corp. for several years after high school, in 1956 he formed a partnership with a fellow employee and operated Gilbert & Schraw Texaco Serv. On what was the S. Logan St. In 1964, George bought out the business from Mr. Gilbert but they have remained friends over the years since. When Logan St. was rebuilt in the late 1960s, the Texaco station was demolished; as a result he moved the business to the corner of Logan & Holmes Rd and operated as Schraw Mobil Service until 1981 when he liquidated the business and went to work for Bud Kouts Chevy from where he retired in 1991.
George met the love on his life, Ruth Dunnebacke, in 1946 and they were married at St. Mary Cathedral on June 7, 1947. They had one son, Christopher, but lost two daughters in infancy. George was a very active member of Holy Cross parish until it was closed in 2009. He was an usher for many years, was also a member of the Booster club and worked on the parish Bingo for several years. He was an avid Detroit Tigers fan all his life, as well as M.S.U. and Red Wings, Lions, thru good times and not so good!
He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Ruth; daughter-in-law, Dee Werner; parents; sister, Patricia; brothers, Gerald and John “Phil”. Surviving are his son, Chris Schraw; grandson, Chris (Deanna) Schraw Werner; 2 great-granddaughters, Ava and Arianna Werner; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
SERVICES ARE BEING PLANNED
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Assoc. of Michigan. Friends may visit the guest book at www.tiffanyfuneralhome.com
George worked for the Mill Supplies Corp. for several years after high school, in 1956 he formed a partnership with a fellow employee and operated Gilbert & Schraw Texaco Serv. On what was the S. Logan St. In 1964, George bought out the business from Mr. Gilbert but they have remained friends over the years since. When Logan St. was rebuilt in the late 1960s, the Texaco station was demolished; as a result he moved the business to the corner of Logan & Holmes Rd and operated as Schraw Mobil Service until 1981 when he liquidated the business and went to work for Bud Kouts Chevy from where he retired in 1991.
George met the love on his life, Ruth Dunnebacke, in 1946 and they were married at St. Mary Cathedral on June 7, 1947. They had one son, Christopher, but lost two daughters in infancy. George was a very active member of Holy Cross parish until it was closed in 2009. He was an usher for many years, was also a member of the Booster club and worked on the parish Bingo for several years. He was an avid Detroit Tigers fan all his life, as well as M.S.U. and Red Wings, Lions, thru good times and not so good!
He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Ruth; daughter-in-law, Dee Werner; parents; sister, Patricia; brothers, Gerald and John “Phil”. Surviving are his son, Chris Schraw; grandson, Chris (Deanna) Schraw Werner; 2 great-granddaughters, Ava and Arianna Werner; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
SERVICES ARE BEING PLANNED
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Assoc. of Michigan. Friends may visit the guest book at www.tiffanyfuneralhome.com
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1945
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1945
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Class of 1945
Charles Robert Brunette
November 1, 1927 -- May 19, 2019
In memory of Charles Robert Brunette, class of 1945,
who passed away at the age of 91.
Charles Robert Brunette went to heaven on May 19, 2019 at the age of 91. He came into the world on November 1, 1927 in Alpena, Michigan, the second eldest son of Lorena and Russell Brunette’s twelve children. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan, his parents, brothers Dick, Kenny, Don, Gary, Danny, sisters, MaryLu and Carol, and sister-in-law, Jean Stoner, and brothers-in-law, John Willson and Lavon Stoner. He married his beloved wife of 69 years on May 1, 1948, thus the beginning of a large and beautiful family history. Surviving to keep his memory alive are Charlie and Joan’s children, Linda (Jim) MacLean of Huntsville, Arkansas, Larry (Sheila) Brunette of Lansing, LuAnn Goerge of Lansing, Lanny (Molly) Brunette of East Lansing, Mark (Janette) Brunette of Dewitt, and Michele (Mark) Drake of Wayland, Michigan; grandchildren, Thomas (Jennifer) MacLean of Rogers, Arkansas, Marcie (Dusty) Griffin of Fayetteville, Arkansas, Shantana (Eric) Simmon of Eagle, Amanda (Benjamin) Schartow of Lansing, Sarah Wallace of Grand Rapids, Krista (Nathan) Beyer of Lansing, Rachelle (Paul) Crawford of Lansing, John (Amy) Brunette of Grand Ledge, Renee Brunette of Lansing, Raeanne Mardigian of Grand Ledge, Michael Hickman of Eaton Rapids, T’eye Troutman of Lansing, brothers Roger (Pauline), David (Linda), Mary (Floyd), Greg (Leona); sister-in-law, Barbara Willson of Lansing; and numerous other in-laws, nieces and nephews. He was called “Pappy” by great-grandchildren, Isabel, Lonah, Fenton, Reece, Gabriel, Gianna, Abigail, Jameson, Raegan, Amelia, Jayden, and Gideon. Charlie spent his young years in Alpena, Michigan. His best friend and cousin, Bill, had great times together. He attended St. Anne’s Catholic school in Alpena. His family moved to Grand Ledge from Alpena when he was 15 years old, where he attended public school. He played basketball during those years. After graduating from Grand Ledge High School at age 18, Charlie went on to the Liquor Control Commission where he worked for 36 years. Charlie was a Spartan fan through and through. Enjoying season tickets for many years, he anticipated the beginning of the Michigan State football season all the way through the basketball season and March Madness. No matter what, he was proud to be a Spartan! He enjoyed his many vacations with his wife, Joan, and the kids through the years. Favorite trips of Charlie’s was traveling out west in the United States and to England, Switzerland, Austria, and Germany in Europe. He loved going to Frankenmuth, Michigan. He was the family’s Teller-of-Cheesy-Jokes. The cheesier, the better! The family would like to express their appreciation to the love and care given to Charlie from John, Roxanne, and John Michael Moore and Ann Rosa at Moore’s Country Living in Charlotte, the warmth and tender care of Hospice nurses Christy Culham and Nurse Raina McNamara, and Chaplain Sue of the Sparrow Home Hospice Staff. The funeral service will be held on Friday, May 24, 2019 at 11 am at Mt. Hope Church. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 23, 2019 from 5-8 pm at the Palmer, Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Homes, Delta Chapel, 6020 W. Saginaw Hwy., Lansing, Michigan, and one hour prior to the service at the church. Internment is at Delta Center Cemetery. Charlie, a.k.a. Dad, Grandpa, Pappy, will be dearly missed, but we smile because he lived! In lieu of flowers, you can make donations to: Building Twentyone Youth Center, 1288 N. Cedar Rd., Mason, MI 48854. For a full obituary please visit www.palmerbush.com.
Class of 1945
Harold Henry Matz
March 19, 1927 -- September 26, 2019
In memory of Harold Henry Matz, class of 1945,
who passed away at the age of 92.
Harold H. Matz, 92 of Wacousta died on September 26, 2019. He was born on March 19, 1927 on the family farm located on Bauer Road North of Grand Ledge. He was a World War II Navy Veteran and worked as a Die Sinker at GM, Federal Drop Forge and Lindell Drop Forge.
He is survived by three daughters, Dianne (Gabriel) Matz-Rodas, Debra (Robert) Matz-Morgan and Dorene Matz; grandchildren, Jaclyn Menacher, Nathan (Nick) Menacher, Taylor and Bailie Morgan.
A funeral service will be held Monday, September 30, 2019, 12:00 p.m. at Mt. Hope Church, Garden Chapel, 202 S. Creyts Rd., Lansing, Michigan 48917. Visitation will be Monday at the church from 11-12 p.m. Interment with military honors will follow at Wacousta Cemetery. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
He is survived by three daughters, Dianne (Gabriel) Matz-Rodas, Debra (Robert) Matz-Morgan and Dorene Matz; grandchildren, Jaclyn Menacher, Nathan (Nick) Menacher, Taylor and Bailie Morgan.
A funeral service will be held Monday, September 30, 2019, 12:00 p.m. at Mt. Hope Church, Garden Chapel, 202 S. Creyts Rd., Lansing, Michigan 48917. Visitation will be Monday at the church from 11-12 p.m. Interment with military honors will follow at Wacousta Cemetery. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
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1947
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1947
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Class of 1947
Dorothy Ilene Brace Allbert-Barto
November 15, 1930 -- September 27, 2019
In memory of Dorothy Ilene Brace Allbert-Barto, class of 1947,
who passed away at the age of 88.
Dorothy Ilene Allbert-Barto, age 88, formerly of Duluth, GA, passed away Friday, September 27, 2019. Funeral services for Dorothy will be held on Tuesday, October 1, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. in our Peachtree Corners Chapel of Crowell Brothers Funeral Homes & Crematory. Burial will follow at North Atlanta Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, October 1, 2019 from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Dorothy was born November 15, 1930 in Lansing, Michigan and was adopted at two weeks of age by Orley and Edith Brace. She graduated from Grand Ledge High School, Michigan in 1947. She moved to Georgia in 1968 and retired from Southern Company Services in 1986. She married Joseph Charles Barto, Jr. in 1993. She is preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Barto, Jr. and daughter, Renee Ramsey. Dorothy is survived by her daughter, Carole Carroll (Larry) of Rockmart, GA; son, Eric Hough (Margaret) of Belmont, NC; stepchildren, Suzanne Donino (Frank) of Highlands, NC, Linda Morrison (Rick) of Nashville, TN, Joe Barto, III (Tricia) of Poqueson, VA, Mary Kenline (Mark) of Smyrna, GA and Michael Barto (Alice) of Missouri City, TX. 18 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Dorothy was a life member of Epsilon Sigma Alpha, 4th Armored Auxiliary and Hemlock Society, USA. She was also a member of Elks Northlake Auxiliary and Atlanta Chapter of Military Officer.
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Class of 1948
William John Lehman
December 23, 1929 -- July 15, 2019
In memory of William John Lehman, class of 1948,
who passed away at the age of 89.
William J. Lehman of Eagle passed away July 15, 2019. He was born December 23, 1929 in Portland, Michigan to the late Hubert and Charlotte (Masiakowski) Lehman.
Bill is survived by his daughters, Catherine Fox, Barbara (Robert) Gross, Cynthia (Timothy) Terwilliger, Suzanne Mayhew and Caroline (Timothy) Ring; 8 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren; sister, Rosemary Harrington; brothers, Kenneth (Gail) and John (Linda) Lehman along with companion, Connie Munger and her family. He was preceded in death by wife Mary in 2013; son, William; brother and sister-in-law, Nick and Catherine Lehman and son-in-law, James Fox.
Bill graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1948, served in the U.S. Army and then went on to work at Bud Kouts Chevrolet. Bill also had a passion for farming. It was something he enjoyed and looked forward to the challenge. He enjoyed attending tractor shows and country music jams. Bill along with his late wife worked to raise money for local hospice organizations and also hosted many exchange students over the years.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, June 18, 2019, 10:00 a.m. at St. Michael Catholic Church, Grand Ledge. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday from 2-4:00 p.m. and 6-8:00 p.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Hospice House of Mid-Michigan, 1215 E. Michigan Avenue, Lansing, Michigan 48912 (https://www.sparrowfoundation.org/give) or St. Michael Catholic Church, 345 Edwards Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837
Bill is survived by his daughters, Catherine Fox, Barbara (Robert) Gross, Cynthia (Timothy) Terwilliger, Suzanne Mayhew and Caroline (Timothy) Ring; 8 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren; sister, Rosemary Harrington; brothers, Kenneth (Gail) and John (Linda) Lehman along with companion, Connie Munger and her family. He was preceded in death by wife Mary in 2013; son, William; brother and sister-in-law, Nick and Catherine Lehman and son-in-law, James Fox.
Bill graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1948, served in the U.S. Army and then went on to work at Bud Kouts Chevrolet. Bill also had a passion for farming. It was something he enjoyed and looked forward to the challenge. He enjoyed attending tractor shows and country music jams. Bill along with his late wife worked to raise money for local hospice organizations and also hosted many exchange students over the years.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, June 18, 2019, 10:00 a.m. at St. Michael Catholic Church, Grand Ledge. Interment will be at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday from 2-4:00 p.m. and 6-8:00 p.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Hospice House of Mid-Michigan, 1215 E. Michigan Avenue, Lansing, Michigan 48912 (https://www.sparrowfoundation.org/give) or St. Michael Catholic Church, 345 Edwards Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837
Class of 1948
Patricia Ann Schraw
October 13, 1931 -- March 14, 2019
In memory of Patricia Ann Schraw, class of 1948,
who passed away at the age of 87.
Patricia Ann Schraw, age 87, of Knoxville TN, passed away unexpectedly March 14, 2019 at Parkwest Medical Center.
"Pat" as she preferred to be called, kept busy with many interests and hobbies. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church where she sang in the choir as a soprano. Her love of music and singing also involved her in the "Golden Tones" singing group. An accountant by trade, Pat was a detail oriented "numbers gal". She was an avid reader and especially enjoyed history and biographies. Pat loved cats, her daily walks at the mall, volunteering, crossword puzzles, and playing Euchre with family at the holidays, and although they may not know, the Lady Vols just lost their #1 fan. Pat will be missed by many.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John P. Schraw, Sr. and Irene (Vining) Schraw; brothers, John P. Schraw, Jr. and Gerald T. Schraw; sister in law, Ruth Schraw and nephew, Gregg Schraw.
Pat is survived by her brother, George Schraw; sisters in law, Rita Schraw and Ceree Schiller; many nieces and nephews, Wayne Schraw, Bob Schraw, Linda Jacobson, Gary Schraw, Tom Schraw, Chris Schraw, Tom M. Schraw, Rita Eriksen, Cindy Schwanz, Steven Schraw, Richard Schraw, Ann Schraw and Ceree Houghton.
The family will receive friends from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Tuesday at The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus followed by a Funeral Mass with Father David Boettner officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations to local Animal Shelters would be greatly appreciated.
Arrangements provided by Rose Mortuary.
"Pat" as she preferred to be called, kept busy with many interests and hobbies. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church where she sang in the choir as a soprano. Her love of music and singing also involved her in the "Golden Tones" singing group. An accountant by trade, Pat was a detail oriented "numbers gal". She was an avid reader and especially enjoyed history and biographies. Pat loved cats, her daily walks at the mall, volunteering, crossword puzzles, and playing Euchre with family at the holidays, and although they may not know, the Lady Vols just lost their #1 fan. Pat will be missed by many.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John P. Schraw, Sr. and Irene (Vining) Schraw; brothers, John P. Schraw, Jr. and Gerald T. Schraw; sister in law, Ruth Schraw and nephew, Gregg Schraw.
Pat is survived by her brother, George Schraw; sisters in law, Rita Schraw and Ceree Schiller; many nieces and nephews, Wayne Schraw, Bob Schraw, Linda Jacobson, Gary Schraw, Tom Schraw, Chris Schraw, Tom M. Schraw, Rita Eriksen, Cindy Schwanz, Steven Schraw, Richard Schraw, Ann Schraw and Ceree Houghton.
The family will receive friends from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM Tuesday at The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus followed by a Funeral Mass with Father David Boettner officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations to local Animal Shelters would be greatly appreciated.
Arrangements provided by Rose Mortuary.
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Class of 1950
Bernard Metteer Nicholaisen
November 29, 1931 -- May 7, 2019
In memory of Bernard Metteer Nicholaisen, class of 1950,
who passed away at the age of 88.
Bernard Metteer Nicholaisen was born on November 29, 1931, and died peacefully at his Sun Lakes home on May 7, 2019.
Bernard was born to Carllye & Merle Metteer Nicholaisen in Norfolk, NE. To this union four children were born. Carol, Nan, Bernard “Buss”, and John “Jack”. Buss graduated from Grand Ledge High School and enlisted in US Navy in 1950. Buss met his bride while they both were serving in Pensacola, FL. He married Patricia Laggan in 1953. Upon discharge they settled in Denver, CO, for 53 years. To this union four children were born, Debra, Leslie, Susan, and Joan. He retired from United Airlines in 1993 after 33 years at DENCG, shortly thereafter he worked for the House of Representatives in Denver for 5 years before moving to Sun Lakes in 2000. He enjoyed his retirement playing music on the organ, church choir, golfing, carpentry, painting, and gardening. Buss volunteered his time helping many organizations. He was a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus and served as a member of Honor Guard as well as American Legion Post # 55
He is survived by his wife Patricia of 65 years, daughters Debra Woller (Ron), Sun Lakes, AZ, Leslie Revell (Bryce)Wray, CO, Susan Inman, (Jay), Sun Lakes, AZ, Joan Byrd, Castle Rock, CO, niece Tammy Laggan, Sun Lakes, AZ, his Sister-In-Law Judith Epping Nicholaisen, 8 Grandchildren, 16 Great-Grandchildren, and 7 Step-Grandchildren, & 4 Step-Great Grandchildren along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Services will be at St Steven’s Church, May 29, 2019 at 1000 AM followed by Military Honors in the courtyard. Lunch will be in the Great Hall immediately following.
Family requests no flowers, in lieu of flowers memorial can be sent to Honorflightaz.org or charity of your choice.
Bernard was born to Carllye & Merle Metteer Nicholaisen in Norfolk, NE. To this union four children were born. Carol, Nan, Bernard “Buss”, and John “Jack”. Buss graduated from Grand Ledge High School and enlisted in US Navy in 1950. Buss met his bride while they both were serving in Pensacola, FL. He married Patricia Laggan in 1953. Upon discharge they settled in Denver, CO, for 53 years. To this union four children were born, Debra, Leslie, Susan, and Joan. He retired from United Airlines in 1993 after 33 years at DENCG, shortly thereafter he worked for the House of Representatives in Denver for 5 years before moving to Sun Lakes in 2000. He enjoyed his retirement playing music on the organ, church choir, golfing, carpentry, painting, and gardening. Buss volunteered his time helping many organizations. He was a 4th Degree Knight of Columbus and served as a member of Honor Guard as well as American Legion Post # 55
He is survived by his wife Patricia of 65 years, daughters Debra Woller (Ron), Sun Lakes, AZ, Leslie Revell (Bryce)Wray, CO, Susan Inman, (Jay), Sun Lakes, AZ, Joan Byrd, Castle Rock, CO, niece Tammy Laggan, Sun Lakes, AZ, his Sister-In-Law Judith Epping Nicholaisen, 8 Grandchildren, 16 Great-Grandchildren, and 7 Step-Grandchildren, & 4 Step-Great Grandchildren along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Services will be at St Steven’s Church, May 29, 2019 at 1000 AM followed by Military Honors in the courtyard. Lunch will be in the Great Hall immediately following.
Family requests no flowers, in lieu of flowers memorial can be sent to Honorflightaz.org or charity of your choice.
Class of 1950
Meredith Rysdam Wawiernia Schelter
November 29, 1931 -- May 7, 2019
In memory of Meredith Rysdam Wawiernia Schelter, class of 1950, who passed away at the age of 87.
Meredith Wawiernia Schelter of Mulliken, age 87, died October 26, 2019.
Mrs. Schelter was born March 16, 1932 in Geddes, SD, a daughter of Lewis and Audrey (Helmey) Rysdam. She was a 1950 graduate of Grand Ledge High School, a member of Sunfield United Methodist Church and was a former secretary at Grand Ledge High School. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Paul Wawiernia, in 1981. Surviving is her husband, Ernest Schelter; daughter, Dianne (James) Vogel of Eaton Rapids; three sons, Rodney (Elaine) Wawiernia of Mulliken, David (Diane) Wawiernia of Eagle and Richard Wawiernia of Arizona; 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; brother, Douglas Rysdam of Tucson, AZ; nieces & nephews and special niece and caregiver, Linda Thelen. Services 11 A.M. Friday, November 1, 2019, at Sunfield United Methodist Church, 227 Logan St., Sunfield. Interment will follow at Danby Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 5-8 P.M. Thursday at Barker-Leik Funeral Home, Mulliken, and one hour prior to services at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace Hospice, 2205 Jolly Road, Suite C, Okemos, MI 48867.
Mrs. Schelter was born March 16, 1932 in Geddes, SD, a daughter of Lewis and Audrey (Helmey) Rysdam. She was a 1950 graduate of Grand Ledge High School, a member of Sunfield United Methodist Church and was a former secretary at Grand Ledge High School. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Paul Wawiernia, in 1981. Surviving is her husband, Ernest Schelter; daughter, Dianne (James) Vogel of Eaton Rapids; three sons, Rodney (Elaine) Wawiernia of Mulliken, David (Diane) Wawiernia of Eagle and Richard Wawiernia of Arizona; 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; brother, Douglas Rysdam of Tucson, AZ; nieces & nephews and special niece and caregiver, Linda Thelen. Services 11 A.M. Friday, November 1, 2019, at Sunfield United Methodist Church, 227 Logan St., Sunfield. Interment will follow at Danby Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 5-8 P.M. Thursday at Barker-Leik Funeral Home, Mulliken, and one hour prior to services at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace Hospice, 2205 Jolly Road, Suite C, Okemos, MI 48867.
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Class of 1951
Jacqueline Leona Abbruzzese Bratschi
August 8, 1933 -- March 26, 2020 (Aged 86)
In memory of Jacqueline Leona Abbruzzese Bratschi, class of 1951,
who passed away at the age of 86.
Jacqueline L. Bratschi, 86, went home to be with the Lord on March 26, 2020, after an abundant and fulfilling life.
Jacqueline was born on July 8, 1933 in Ionia, Michigan, daughter to Joseph and Florence (Tully) Abbruzzese. She is survived by her son Raymond “Chris” Bratschi, daughters Mary (Gordon) VanWieren and Marcia (Mike) Gresens, and her four grandchildren: Betsy and Trey VanWieren, and Gunnar and Sabrina Gresens. She was predeceased by Raymond, her husband of 59 years, as well as her five brothers and three sisters.
Jacqueline had an inherent talent for organization, as well as an eye for elegance. She used those skills to manage and improve many properties through the years - some properties for work, and some for play. Jacqueline was also a Managing Partner of Bratschi Enterprises, Inc., a property management company she founded with her husband and son. But the family home in Oneida Township, which she and her husband built, and where she lived until July 2019, was her love. She enjoyed mowing her three acre lawn without assistance until she was 85 years old, and even then was reluctant to relinquish that chore.
Jacqueline was an active parishioner at St. Michael Catholic Church in Grand Ledge, including being a member of Prayer Partners with the children at St. Michael Church. She was a former Treasurer for Oneida Township, and also volunteered on the Township’s Election Board.
Jacqueline’s favorite thing in life was spending quality time with family, especially her grandchildren, and her friends. She enjoyed crafting, painting, and playing euchre with her friends from church. Jacqueline always looked forward to family gatherings and vacations. Preparing for such gatherings was a labor of love for her, especially when the preparations involved assistance from her children and grandchildren. Sharing her talents, like her ability to make a perfect pumpkin chiffon pie, with her family was always a priority.
Vacations were always important to her. They typically included family members, extended family, and good friends. An early vacation involved a cross country trip with her three sisters and mother in a convertible to visit her brother in California. Other family trips consisted of camping and canoeing across the country - New York, Maine, Florida, and Mississippi. Later in life she and Ray fell in love with Charlevoix, Michigan. They made it their family vacation destination of choice. They enjoyed traveling up north numerous times each summer to the family compound to enjoy the peaceful quiet waters of Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan with their children, grandchildren, and friends.
Jacqueline’s sparkle and enthusiasm for life would light up the room when she entered. Always quick with a smile, or a hand to help, she had an infectious laugh that brought easy smiles to everyone. She was an inspirational role model, amazing wife, tireless mother, loving daughter, and devoted friend. Jacqueline lived a full life simply dedicated to love and generosity. She will forever remain in our hearts.
A private family service will be held at St. Michael Catholic Church in Grand Ledge.neral Home, Grand Ledge. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com.
View service online at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0cHJ0g9uMkkSu5m0qpg2OA/videos? Interment at Meadowbrook Cemetery in Mulliken. Out of respect and concern for public health and safety, the family has chosen to have a Celebration of Life service for the friends and family at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Michael Catholic Church or Bickford Assisted Living of Okemos in memory of Jacqueline Bratschi. The family has entrusted arrangements to Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com.
Jacqueline was born on July 8, 1933 in Ionia, Michigan, daughter to Joseph and Florence (Tully) Abbruzzese. She is survived by her son Raymond “Chris” Bratschi, daughters Mary (Gordon) VanWieren and Marcia (Mike) Gresens, and her four grandchildren: Betsy and Trey VanWieren, and Gunnar and Sabrina Gresens. She was predeceased by Raymond, her husband of 59 years, as well as her five brothers and three sisters.
Jacqueline had an inherent talent for organization, as well as an eye for elegance. She used those skills to manage and improve many properties through the years - some properties for work, and some for play. Jacqueline was also a Managing Partner of Bratschi Enterprises, Inc., a property management company she founded with her husband and son. But the family home in Oneida Township, which she and her husband built, and where she lived until July 2019, was her love. She enjoyed mowing her three acre lawn without assistance until she was 85 years old, and even then was reluctant to relinquish that chore.
Jacqueline was an active parishioner at St. Michael Catholic Church in Grand Ledge, including being a member of Prayer Partners with the children at St. Michael Church. She was a former Treasurer for Oneida Township, and also volunteered on the Township’s Election Board.
Jacqueline’s favorite thing in life was spending quality time with family, especially her grandchildren, and her friends. She enjoyed crafting, painting, and playing euchre with her friends from church. Jacqueline always looked forward to family gatherings and vacations. Preparing for such gatherings was a labor of love for her, especially when the preparations involved assistance from her children and grandchildren. Sharing her talents, like her ability to make a perfect pumpkin chiffon pie, with her family was always a priority.
Vacations were always important to her. They typically included family members, extended family, and good friends. An early vacation involved a cross country trip with her three sisters and mother in a convertible to visit her brother in California. Other family trips consisted of camping and canoeing across the country - New York, Maine, Florida, and Mississippi. Later in life she and Ray fell in love with Charlevoix, Michigan. They made it their family vacation destination of choice. They enjoyed traveling up north numerous times each summer to the family compound to enjoy the peaceful quiet waters of Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan with their children, grandchildren, and friends.
Jacqueline’s sparkle and enthusiasm for life would light up the room when she entered. Always quick with a smile, or a hand to help, she had an infectious laugh that brought easy smiles to everyone. She was an inspirational role model, amazing wife, tireless mother, loving daughter, and devoted friend. Jacqueline lived a full life simply dedicated to love and generosity. She will forever remain in our hearts.
A private family service will be held at St. Michael Catholic Church in Grand Ledge.neral Home, Grand Ledge. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com.
View service online at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0cHJ0g9uMkkSu5m0qpg2OA/videos? Interment at Meadowbrook Cemetery in Mulliken. Out of respect and concern for public health and safety, the family has chosen to have a Celebration of Life service for the friends and family at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Michael Catholic Church or Bickford Assisted Living of Okemos in memory of Jacqueline Bratschi. The family has entrusted arrangements to Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com.
Class of 1951
Thelma Ilene Hair Noble
June 26, 1933 -- April 22, 2020
In memory of Thelma Ilene Hair Noble, class of 1951,
who passed away at the age of 86.
Thelma Ilene Noble, longtime area resident of Grand Ledge, passed away April 22, 2020 at the age of 86. Thelma was born June 26, 1933 in Stockbridge, MI, daughter to Charles and Leota (Gauss) Hair. She was retired from the State of Michigan and a member of the Grand Ledge Baptist Church.
Thelma is survived by her children and grandchildren: Son, Douglas (Connie) Noble of Moran, parents of Amy (Matt) Morgan, Merritt (David) Gilbert, Kevin (Meagan) Noble, Mackenzie (fiancé Tom) Noble, and Kenny (Jeanette) Olinger; Daughter, Deborah (Andrew) Fanko of Perry, parents of Megan (Peter) McGowan, Drew (Becca) Fanko and Matthew (Kara) Fanko, and Daughter, Marcia (Ronald) Phinney of Lansing, parents of Amanda (Patrick) Reiterman, Nick Phinney and Alex (Sage) Payne; 13 great grandchildren, aunts, uncles, many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, brothers William, Dean and Rex Hair and son-in-law Robert Seelman.
Out of respect and concern for public health and safety, the family has chosen to postpone funeral services. A private family graveside service will be held at Wacousta Cemetery, Watertown Twp., Clinton County. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Grand Ledge Baptist Church, 1120 Willow Hwy., Grand Ledge, MI 48837 in memory of Thelma Noble. A memorial service will be held at a later date. The family entrusted arrangements to Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
Thelma is survived by her children and grandchildren: Son, Douglas (Connie) Noble of Moran, parents of Amy (Matt) Morgan, Merritt (David) Gilbert, Kevin (Meagan) Noble, Mackenzie (fiancé Tom) Noble, and Kenny (Jeanette) Olinger; Daughter, Deborah (Andrew) Fanko of Perry, parents of Megan (Peter) McGowan, Drew (Becca) Fanko and Matthew (Kara) Fanko, and Daughter, Marcia (Ronald) Phinney of Lansing, parents of Amanda (Patrick) Reiterman, Nick Phinney and Alex (Sage) Payne; 13 great grandchildren, aunts, uncles, many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, brothers William, Dean and Rex Hair and son-in-law Robert Seelman.
Out of respect and concern for public health and safety, the family has chosen to postpone funeral services. A private family graveside service will be held at Wacousta Cemetery, Watertown Twp., Clinton County. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Grand Ledge Baptist Church, 1120 Willow Hwy., Grand Ledge, MI 48837 in memory of Thelma Noble. A memorial service will be held at a later date. The family entrusted arrangements to Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
Class of 1951
Beverly J. Hershoren Haueter
May 18, 1933 -- August 20, 2019
In memory of Beverly J. Hershoren Haueter , class of 1951,
who passed away at the age of 86.
Beverly Joyce Haueter of Grand Ledge, MI passed away August 20, 2019 at the age of 86. She was born May 18, 1933, daughter to Bernard and Stella (Vezzetti) Hershoren. Beverly moved to Grand Ledge in 1936 during the city’s Centennial Celebration. She loved Grand Ledge dearly.
She was a nurse, first working for Drs. Harrod & Robinson in Grand Ledge, she then worked with the Red Cross. In the mid-1960s Bev became an industrial nurse at Oldsmobile, working primarily at Plant #3. After retiring in 1987, she moved to Fort Myers, FL, and became a Visiting Home Health Nurse.
In 1942, Beverly met her future husband Victor Haueter at a fifth-grade softball game. Ten years later, after graduating, they were married and began raising their family. She loved to cultivate roses and flowers; cherished her family and friends and many of her childhood classmates became lifelong friends, and especially loved and adored her children and grandchildren.
Beverly is survived by her sons Michael (Sherry) and David, daughters Patricia (Fred) Williams and Pamela (Julius) Rivera; 10 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren; sisters-in-law: Janet Haueter, Nancy Dankenbring, Marcy Hershoren, and was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Victor and brother Gary Hershoren and brother-in-law Robert Haueter.
A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, August 25, 2019 from 2-4 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. For those wishing, memorial contributions can be made to Michigan Premier Hospice or America Kidney Fund in memory of Beverly Haueter. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
She was a nurse, first working for Drs. Harrod & Robinson in Grand Ledge, she then worked with the Red Cross. In the mid-1960s Bev became an industrial nurse at Oldsmobile, working primarily at Plant #3. After retiring in 1987, she moved to Fort Myers, FL, and became a Visiting Home Health Nurse.
In 1942, Beverly met her future husband Victor Haueter at a fifth-grade softball game. Ten years later, after graduating, they were married and began raising their family. She loved to cultivate roses and flowers; cherished her family and friends and many of her childhood classmates became lifelong friends, and especially loved and adored her children and grandchildren.
Beverly is survived by her sons Michael (Sherry) and David, daughters Patricia (Fred) Williams and Pamela (Julius) Rivera; 10 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren; sisters-in-law: Janet Haueter, Nancy Dankenbring, Marcy Hershoren, and was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Victor and brother Gary Hershoren and brother-in-law Robert Haueter.
A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, August 25, 2019 from 2-4 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. For those wishing, memorial contributions can be made to Michigan Premier Hospice or America Kidney Fund in memory of Beverly Haueter. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
Class of 1951
Ronald K. Segerlind
July 21, 1933 - July 29, 2019
In memory of Ronald K. Segerlind, class of 1951, who passed away at the age of 86.
Ronald K. Segerlind of Dallas, TX, formerly of Grand Ledge passed away July 29, 2019. He was born July 21, 1933 in Grand Rapids, MI, son of Thorgny and Bessie (Bennett) Segerlind. Ron was a graduate of Grand Ledge High School, Class of 1951; graduated from Michigan State in 1959, served in the United States Air Force, and retired from the Army & Air Force Exchange. He enjoyed hunting and was an avid bridge player.
Ron is survived by his wife of 49 years, Joan, son Alexis Segerlind, daughter Yasmina (Ralph) Walker III; 2 grandchildren Rachel Walker, Hillary (Stephen) Clement; great grandsons Tristan Clement and Luke Clement, and brothers Larry (Donna) and Gerald (Joyce) Segerlind.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 10, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, with visitation from 10 – 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Union Cemetery, Oneida Twp., Eaton County, MI. Reception at the Community Hall at 12:00 p.m.
Those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to the Ducks Unlimited, Memorial Contribution, One Waterfowl Way, Memphis, TN 38120 or www.ducks.org
Ron is survived by his wife of 49 years, Joan, son Alexis Segerlind, daughter Yasmina (Ralph) Walker III; 2 grandchildren Rachel Walker, Hillary (Stephen) Clement; great grandsons Tristan Clement and Luke Clement, and brothers Larry (Donna) and Gerald (Joyce) Segerlind.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 10, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, with visitation from 10 – 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Union Cemetery, Oneida Twp., Eaton County, MI. Reception at the Community Hall at 12:00 p.m.
Those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to the Ducks Unlimited, Memorial Contribution, One Waterfowl Way, Memphis, TN 38120 or www.ducks.org
Class of 1951
Theodore F. Simmons
July 31, 1931 - October 13, 2019
In memory of Theodore F. Simmons, class of 1951, who passed away at the age of 88.
Theodore “Ted” Simmons, 88, lifelong resident of Grand Ledge, MI, passed away October 13, 2019. He was born July 30, 1931, son to Theodore and Eva (Hoffman) Simmons. He graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1951; was a proud U.S. Army Veteran of the Korean Conflict, and retired from Consumers Power Company after 42 years of service.
He is survived by his wife, Maxine (DeRousha) of 68 years, children: Claudia (Greg) Tamlyn, Luanne (Robert) Webb, Mike (Sammy) Simmons, and Penny (Tim) Diebolt; grandchildren: Amanda (Brendan) Jerome, Erik (Amy) Tamlyn, Thomas Webb, Emily Tamlyn (Thomas Manula), Travis (Vashti) Simmons, Trenton (Caitlyn) Simmons, Andrew and Sean Geahan, and great grandchildren: Lukas and Koen Jerome, Alexis and Gabriel Tamlyn, and Zane Simmons, Miles Manula.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 17, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, with military graveside services to follow at North Eagle Cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday from 12:00 p.m. until service time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the American Red Cross or Hospice House of Mid-Michigan. www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome
He is survived by his wife, Maxine (DeRousha) of 68 years, children: Claudia (Greg) Tamlyn, Luanne (Robert) Webb, Mike (Sammy) Simmons, and Penny (Tim) Diebolt; grandchildren: Amanda (Brendan) Jerome, Erik (Amy) Tamlyn, Thomas Webb, Emily Tamlyn (Thomas Manula), Travis (Vashti) Simmons, Trenton (Caitlyn) Simmons, Andrew and Sean Geahan, and great grandchildren: Lukas and Koen Jerome, Alexis and Gabriel Tamlyn, and Zane Simmons, Miles Manula.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 17, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, with military graveside services to follow at North Eagle Cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday from 12:00 p.m. until service time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the American Red Cross or Hospice House of Mid-Michigan. www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome
Class of 1952
Esther M. Bonofiglio Fabiano
February 20, 1934 -- February 29, 2020
In memory of Esther Bonofiglio Fabiano, class of 1952,
who passed away at the age of 86.
Esther M. Fabiano, 86 of Holland passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family Saturday 29 February.
Esther was born 20 February 1934 in Cosenza, Italy to Joseph and Irene (Cascarelli) Bonofiglio. She was raised in Grand Ledge, Michigan and graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1952. Esther worked as a secretary at the Grand Ledge Chair Co. until 1955. After meeting her future husband at an engagement party, she soon married Paul C. Fabiano. Esther and Paul are the proud founders of Holland Peanut Store, Downtown Holland. Working long hours side by side and raising four children, they celebrated many years of prosperity, love and beautiful memories through their hard work. Esther is a member of St. Francis de Sales Church of Holland, where she served on many committees. She was a member of the Altar Rosary Society, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Study Club, volunteered many years running Friday Night Bingo and served on the St. Francis de Sales School Board. Spending time with her beautiful, loving, loud and faithful family brought Esther the greatest joy! Her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were her greatest gifts, here on Earth. Being the nucleus and Matriarch of her large Italian family, Esther cooked her way into everyone's heart…and belly! She welcomed all. She naturally was a sassy, witty, funny and giving human being! All who knew her, know all about her fabulous "Esther-isms". Award-winning, indeed.
Esther was preceded in death by her parents Joseph and Irene Bonofiglio; sister, Rose Bonofiglio Fabiano; brother, Jerry Bonofiglio; nephew, Joey Bonofiglio and her beloved grandson Michael Thomas Stille.
Surviving Esther is her husband of 65 years, Paul C. Fabiano; her children, Celeste and John Porebski, Paula Fabiano and Dale Brown, Mary and Joel Stille and Thomas Fabiano, all of Holland; grandchildren, Sarah Porebski, Samantha and Mari von Websky, Jason and Johnny Porebski, all of Holland; Josh Brown and Dr. Katie Stahrr of Bend, Oregon; great grandchildren, Zayden Trilla, Vivian and Vincent von Websky all of Holland; sisters, Mary and Jack Ezzo of Lansing, Gloria Baird of Grand Ledge; brothers, Paul and Diane Bonofiglio, Michael and Jill Bonofiglio of Grand Ledge. Also, many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
Esther, Paul and Family want to express their everlasting gratitude to HOSPICE of HOLLAND for their selfless love, tender care and gentle kindness! Esther's care team was fondly known as "The A Team" (named by Esther, herself), rightfully earning that title each and every time they laid hands on her!
Visitation will be Thursday 05 March from 4:00pm-7:00pm at St. Francis de Sales Church, 171 West 13th Street Holland, Michigan.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday 06 March at 11am at St. Francis de Sales. Visitation will be held prior to the mass from 10:00am-11am. Father Charlie Brown Presiding.
A private interment will take place at Pilgrim Home Cemetery.
Esther, Paul and Family would most humbly appreciate your contributions to HOSPICE of HOLLAND and/or Corpus Christi Catholic School.
Esther was born 20 February 1934 in Cosenza, Italy to Joseph and Irene (Cascarelli) Bonofiglio. She was raised in Grand Ledge, Michigan and graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1952. Esther worked as a secretary at the Grand Ledge Chair Co. until 1955. After meeting her future husband at an engagement party, she soon married Paul C. Fabiano. Esther and Paul are the proud founders of Holland Peanut Store, Downtown Holland. Working long hours side by side and raising four children, they celebrated many years of prosperity, love and beautiful memories through their hard work. Esther is a member of St. Francis de Sales Church of Holland, where she served on many committees. She was a member of the Altar Rosary Society, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Study Club, volunteered many years running Friday Night Bingo and served on the St. Francis de Sales School Board. Spending time with her beautiful, loving, loud and faithful family brought Esther the greatest joy! Her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were her greatest gifts, here on Earth. Being the nucleus and Matriarch of her large Italian family, Esther cooked her way into everyone's heart…and belly! She welcomed all. She naturally was a sassy, witty, funny and giving human being! All who knew her, know all about her fabulous "Esther-isms". Award-winning, indeed.
Esther was preceded in death by her parents Joseph and Irene Bonofiglio; sister, Rose Bonofiglio Fabiano; brother, Jerry Bonofiglio; nephew, Joey Bonofiglio and her beloved grandson Michael Thomas Stille.
Surviving Esther is her husband of 65 years, Paul C. Fabiano; her children, Celeste and John Porebski, Paula Fabiano and Dale Brown, Mary and Joel Stille and Thomas Fabiano, all of Holland; grandchildren, Sarah Porebski, Samantha and Mari von Websky, Jason and Johnny Porebski, all of Holland; Josh Brown and Dr. Katie Stahrr of Bend, Oregon; great grandchildren, Zayden Trilla, Vivian and Vincent von Websky all of Holland; sisters, Mary and Jack Ezzo of Lansing, Gloria Baird of Grand Ledge; brothers, Paul and Diane Bonofiglio, Michael and Jill Bonofiglio of Grand Ledge. Also, many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
Esther, Paul and Family want to express their everlasting gratitude to HOSPICE of HOLLAND for their selfless love, tender care and gentle kindness! Esther's care team was fondly known as "The A Team" (named by Esther, herself), rightfully earning that title each and every time they laid hands on her!
Visitation will be Thursday 05 March from 4:00pm-7:00pm at St. Francis de Sales Church, 171 West 13th Street Holland, Michigan.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday 06 March at 11am at St. Francis de Sales. Visitation will be held prior to the mass from 10:00am-11am. Father Charlie Brown Presiding.
A private interment will take place at Pilgrim Home Cemetery.
Esther, Paul and Family would most humbly appreciate your contributions to HOSPICE of HOLLAND and/or Corpus Christi Catholic School.
Class of 1952
Helen I. Padgham Benjamin
August 11, 1934 -- March 17, 2020 (Aged 85)
In memory of Esther Bonofiglio Fabiano, class of 1952,
who passed away at the age of 85.
Helen Benjamin, born August 11, 1934, daughter of, William, and Margaret (Yerks) Padgham, passed away on March 17, 2020 in Alexandria, Virginia after a short illness. Helen was a long-time resident of Delta Township, where she and her husband Dale built and operated Benjamin Parking Lot Maintenance. Helen loved music and sang and toured with the Michigan-Ohio choir, and was very proud to have sung with the Russian Kremlin Capella Choir with Larnelle Harris in Moscow. Helen enjoyed traveling with her husband by motorhome.
Helen was predeceased by her loving husband, Dale of 61 years in 2016, her son, Thomas Benjamin, her sister, Neta Smith, and brother, Neil Padgham. She is survived by her daughter, Sharon Benjamin-Bothwell, Ph.D. and son-in-law Robert Bothwell of Alexandria, Virginia and two grandsons, Matthew Benjamin and his wife Trisha of Newaygo, Michigan and Marshall Benjamin and his wife Tina of Brohman, Michigan; daughter-in-law, Shelly Benjamin of Howard City, Michigan and many other loving family members including several great-grandchildren.
A private grave side service will be held. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. The family has entrusted arrangements to Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made at the American Cancer Association. www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com.
Helen was predeceased by her loving husband, Dale of 61 years in 2016, her son, Thomas Benjamin, her sister, Neta Smith, and brother, Neil Padgham. She is survived by her daughter, Sharon Benjamin-Bothwell, Ph.D. and son-in-law Robert Bothwell of Alexandria, Virginia and two grandsons, Matthew Benjamin and his wife Trisha of Newaygo, Michigan and Marshall Benjamin and his wife Tina of Brohman, Michigan; daughter-in-law, Shelly Benjamin of Howard City, Michigan and many other loving family members including several great-grandchildren.
A private grave side service will be held. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. The family has entrusted arrangements to Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made at the American Cancer Association. www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com.
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1953
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Class of 1953
Shirley I. Acker Warren
April 20, 1935 -- September 3, 2019
In memory of Shirley I. "Acker" Warren, class of 1953, who passed away at the age of 84.
Shirley I. Warren lifelong Grand Ledge resident passed away September 3, 2019 at home surrounded by her loving family. Shirley was born April 20, 1935 in Grand Ledge to the late Arey and Emma (Storm) Acker. She graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1953. She retired from U.S. Postal Service as a Rural Letter Carrier and was a longtime faithful member of Grand Ledge First Congregational UCC. She was an avid bowler and enjoyed knitting, she made lap blankets for the Grand Rapids Veteran’s Home. She looked forward to going to dinner with her friends several time each week but most of all cherished her role as a mom and grandma.
She is survived by children, Doug (Pat), Todd (Kristi) and Cheryl Warren; grandchildren, Detra (Ben) Telgenhof, Bryon (Leann)Warren, Tori Warren, Dustin Behnke, Tyler (Kaylee) Behnke, Jason (Kelly) Abfalter and Caleb Abfalter. Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Ron in 2003; grandson, Todd Warren II; siblings, Maxine Fielder and Arey “Pete” Acker.
A funeral service will be held Friday, September 6, 2019, 11:00 a.m. at Grand Ledge First Congregational United Church of Christ.
Visitation will be Thursday from 4-8:00 p.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge and Friday at the church from 10-11:00 a.m. Memorial contributions in Shirley’s name may be given to Sparrow Foundation, Hospice Services, 1215 E. Michigan Avenue, Lansing, Michigan 48912 (https://www.sparrowfoundation.org/give)
She is survived by children, Doug (Pat), Todd (Kristi) and Cheryl Warren; grandchildren, Detra (Ben) Telgenhof, Bryon (Leann)Warren, Tori Warren, Dustin Behnke, Tyler (Kaylee) Behnke, Jason (Kelly) Abfalter and Caleb Abfalter. Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Ron in 2003; grandson, Todd Warren II; siblings, Maxine Fielder and Arey “Pete” Acker.
A funeral service will be held Friday, September 6, 2019, 11:00 a.m. at Grand Ledge First Congregational United Church of Christ.
Visitation will be Thursday from 4-8:00 p.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge and Friday at the church from 10-11:00 a.m. Memorial contributions in Shirley’s name may be given to Sparrow Foundation, Hospice Services, 1215 E. Michigan Avenue, Lansing, Michigan 48912 (https://www.sparrowfoundation.org/give)
Class of 1953
Roger L. Brokob
August 26, 1934 -- August 10, 2019
In memory of Roger L. Brokob, class of 1953, who passed away at the age of 84.
Roger Lee Brokob, age 84 of Farwell, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, August 10, 2019 at his home. Roger was born the son of the late Henry and Marguerite (Sigler) Brokob on August 26, 1934 in Lansing. He had served his Country in the Marine Corp. as a Sergeant from 1952 to 1957 aboard the Aircraft Carrier, the USS Philippine Sea. Roger married the love of his life Katherine “Kate” McCrumb on February 21, 1958. They started their 61 years of life together in Eagle; having moved to Saginaw to continue his 37 year career with Michigan Bell as a Regional Telecomm Engineer. 1979 found them moving to Farwell to live on 5 Lakes where Roger would spend the rest of his life. During his long life he enjoyed many hobbies including being a volunteer Scuba Instructor, an avid hunter; having made trips to the Western United States as well as enjoying time spent with his brothers and friends. Rogers’s passion however was golfing with his wife and friends. He spent time volunteering at the MidMichigan Medical Center in Clare.
Roger is survived by his loving wife, Kate; his son William (Cynthia Grubish ) Brokob of Nashville, TN; his granddaughters Morgan Lynnae Brokob of Minneapolis, MN and Captain Kelsey (Captain Montana) Story of North Pole, AK; 2 brothers Ronald (MaryAnn) Brokob of Lansing and Reynolds (Roanne) Brokob of Eagle; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Roger was predeceased by his stepbrother Ronald Theodorski.
A Memorial Service will take place on Saturday, August 24, 2019 at the St. John Lutheran Church in Clare with Pastor Andrew Ewald officiating. Visitation will be at the church from 10 AM until the time of service at 11 AM. Military Honors will be presented following the services at the Church. Arrangements were handled by the Clare Chapel of Stephenson-Wyman Funeral Home. On-line condolences may be left at www.stephenson-wyman.com
Roger is survived by his loving wife, Kate; his son William (Cynthia Grubish ) Brokob of Nashville, TN; his granddaughters Morgan Lynnae Brokob of Minneapolis, MN and Captain Kelsey (Captain Montana) Story of North Pole, AK; 2 brothers Ronald (MaryAnn) Brokob of Lansing and Reynolds (Roanne) Brokob of Eagle; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Roger was predeceased by his stepbrother Ronald Theodorski.
A Memorial Service will take place on Saturday, August 24, 2019 at the St. John Lutheran Church in Clare with Pastor Andrew Ewald officiating. Visitation will be at the church from 10 AM until the time of service at 11 AM. Military Honors will be presented following the services at the Church. Arrangements were handled by the Clare Chapel of Stephenson-Wyman Funeral Home. On-line condolences may be left at www.stephenson-wyman.com
Class of 1953
Gary Jaynes Jarstfer
December 16, 1934 -- November 10, 2019 (Aged 84)
In memory of Gary Jaynes Jarstfer, class of 1953, who passed away at the age of 84.
Our precious husband, father, brother, grandfather and great-grandfather, Gary Jaynes Jarstfer, was called home to glory on November 10, 2019, just after 6:00 a.m.
Gary was born December 16, 1934, in Delta Mills Township, near Lansing, Michigan, to Stacy Clinton Jarstfer and Enza Lorene Howard. Gary married Marjorie Ellen Catey of Oneida Township, Michigan, on June 23, 1956. After studies at Michigan State University, Gary worked for the Massey-Ferguson Company for 24 years, in addition to being the owner/operator of Gary’s Service in Williamston, Michigan. After the tragic loss of Marjorie on August 29, 1984, Gary married Betty Ann Cross on October 18, 1985. The two of them served with Wycliffe Bible Translators full-time in several capacities until poor health forced retirement.
Gary ran the race for the glory of God his Savior. He was a hands-on man who used his mind and members to help others. Whether in the classroom teaching diesel systems, hydraulics, machining, or a host of other technical areas, or teaching a Bible Study, he sought to honor God and live for His glory by the grace found in Jesus Christ his Savior.
Gary’s great burning desire was for others to know, love, and serve his Savior Jesus Christ. To that end, he supported the work of Wycliffe Bible Translators for decades. Prior to this full-time service, he traveled twice to Columbia, S.A., as well as Ecuador and Brazil. After joining Wycliffe Bible Translators full time and moving to Waxhaw, NC; he and Mon gave 25 years to supporting Bible translation at the JAARS Center in a variety of capacities. When called upon, they spent time serving in Brazil and Kenya to help spread the Gospel.
For many decades Gary served in the church. He was a deacon for much of his adult life and became an elder and served well at Waxhaw Bible Church. He taught Bible Studies in nearly every church he was a member of for about fifty years. He frequently encouraged others to be involved in missionary endeavors according to their ability.
Our father encouraged his children to pursue a vocation where they could use their skills to serve the Lord. Although each went in different directions, all had his support. He loved his grandchildren deeply and shared the abundance of that love as the next generation arrived.
Our parents modeled a Christ-honoring marriage and were always ready to help others. Gary was generous and often given to hospitality. Our father was always in the Word and reading books; ready to gain further understanding of the truth of Scripture. His example will live on.
For many years he dealt with back pain that could not be eliminated even after five surgeries. He walked through that and the humiliation of Parkinson’s disease with grace and patience.
After nearly 85 years he fought the good fight, finished his race, and kept the faith, and finished well. This is our prayer for each of you, brothers, sisters and fellow laborers; that you will finish well! In Christ alone, live by the Faith alone, to the glory of God alone.
Gary is survived by his wife of 34 years, Betty Ann, sister Nancy Jarstfer Bump (Charles). Children: Sue Ellen Jackson (Rick) of Garland, Texas; Daniel Jarstfer (Donna) of Richmond, RI; Amiel Jarstfer (Angelia) of Ashland, OH. By marriage to Betty Ann, Gary welcomed her children as his own: Frank Cross (Julie) of Portsmouth, VA; James Cross of Lubbock, TX; Victor Cross of Portsmouth, VA; Dawn Cales (Roy) of Salem, OR; Amy Crouch (Ron) of Wesley Chapel, FL; and Tony Cross of Charlotte, NC. (15 total children and spouses).
Grandchildren: Timothy Jackson (Amy) of Seagoville, TX, Gary Jackson, of Marion, IL, Stacey Jackson of Garland, TX, Shelley Jackson, Denton, TX, Derek Jarstfer (Rachel) of Kannapolis, NC, Danelle Jarstfer Jensen (Andrew) of Charlotte, NC, Dorothy Jarstfer Dillingham (Jared) of Barnardsville, NC, Deborah Jarstfer Linton (Evan) of Barnardsville, NC, Austin Jarstfer (Amber) of Tyler, TX, Ethan Jarstfer of Ashland, OH; Lisa Cross of Portsmouth, VA; Jeremy Cross (Charlotte) of of Portsmouth, VA; Aaron Cross (Beth) of Portsmouth, VA; Brittany Coleman McCauley (Matthew) of Charlotte, NC; Cliff Coleman (Brooke) of Montgomery, AL; Abigail Coleman Alamalhodaei (Abe) of Port Orange, FL; Dara Coleman Noel (William) of Naperville, IL; Gareth Cales (Kayleigh) of Jacksonville, FL; Courtney Cales Stover (Brenton) of Salem, OR; Liam Luna of Wesley Chapel, FL; and Reina Luna of Wesley Chapel, FL. (35 grandchildren and spouses)
Great grandchildren: Audra Tackett, Cadman, Ethan, and Lorelei Jackson; Hannah and Emma Jarstfer; Samuel, Nathaniel, Caleb, and Adelaide Jensen; Marjorie, Stella, Laurel, and Wesley Dillingham; Seth Linton; Gary, Matthew, Leigha, and Lexi Cross; Issac, Josiah, and Benjamin Cross; Ava McCauley; William “Lionheart” Coleman; Evelyn Alamalhodaei; and Aemelia Cales; (26 in all) plus many nieces and nephews.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Stacy and Lorene; his first wife, Marjorie Ellen Catey; brother, Dr. Bruce Jarstfer; and daughter, Wendy Cross Coleman.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in memory of Gary Jarstfer to JAARS. https://www.jaars.org/give/ Designate for use on the JAARS Center. In the comment box you will add “In memory of Gary Jarstfer.”
Gary was born December 16, 1934, in Delta Mills Township, near Lansing, Michigan, to Stacy Clinton Jarstfer and Enza Lorene Howard. Gary married Marjorie Ellen Catey of Oneida Township, Michigan, on June 23, 1956. After studies at Michigan State University, Gary worked for the Massey-Ferguson Company for 24 years, in addition to being the owner/operator of Gary’s Service in Williamston, Michigan. After the tragic loss of Marjorie on August 29, 1984, Gary married Betty Ann Cross on October 18, 1985. The two of them served with Wycliffe Bible Translators full-time in several capacities until poor health forced retirement.
Gary ran the race for the glory of God his Savior. He was a hands-on man who used his mind and members to help others. Whether in the classroom teaching diesel systems, hydraulics, machining, or a host of other technical areas, or teaching a Bible Study, he sought to honor God and live for His glory by the grace found in Jesus Christ his Savior.
Gary’s great burning desire was for others to know, love, and serve his Savior Jesus Christ. To that end, he supported the work of Wycliffe Bible Translators for decades. Prior to this full-time service, he traveled twice to Columbia, S.A., as well as Ecuador and Brazil. After joining Wycliffe Bible Translators full time and moving to Waxhaw, NC; he and Mon gave 25 years to supporting Bible translation at the JAARS Center in a variety of capacities. When called upon, they spent time serving in Brazil and Kenya to help spread the Gospel.
For many decades Gary served in the church. He was a deacon for much of his adult life and became an elder and served well at Waxhaw Bible Church. He taught Bible Studies in nearly every church he was a member of for about fifty years. He frequently encouraged others to be involved in missionary endeavors according to their ability.
Our father encouraged his children to pursue a vocation where they could use their skills to serve the Lord. Although each went in different directions, all had his support. He loved his grandchildren deeply and shared the abundance of that love as the next generation arrived.
Our parents modeled a Christ-honoring marriage and were always ready to help others. Gary was generous and often given to hospitality. Our father was always in the Word and reading books; ready to gain further understanding of the truth of Scripture. His example will live on.
For many years he dealt with back pain that could not be eliminated even after five surgeries. He walked through that and the humiliation of Parkinson’s disease with grace and patience.
After nearly 85 years he fought the good fight, finished his race, and kept the faith, and finished well. This is our prayer for each of you, brothers, sisters and fellow laborers; that you will finish well! In Christ alone, live by the Faith alone, to the glory of God alone.
Gary is survived by his wife of 34 years, Betty Ann, sister Nancy Jarstfer Bump (Charles). Children: Sue Ellen Jackson (Rick) of Garland, Texas; Daniel Jarstfer (Donna) of Richmond, RI; Amiel Jarstfer (Angelia) of Ashland, OH. By marriage to Betty Ann, Gary welcomed her children as his own: Frank Cross (Julie) of Portsmouth, VA; James Cross of Lubbock, TX; Victor Cross of Portsmouth, VA; Dawn Cales (Roy) of Salem, OR; Amy Crouch (Ron) of Wesley Chapel, FL; and Tony Cross of Charlotte, NC. (15 total children and spouses).
Grandchildren: Timothy Jackson (Amy) of Seagoville, TX, Gary Jackson, of Marion, IL, Stacey Jackson of Garland, TX, Shelley Jackson, Denton, TX, Derek Jarstfer (Rachel) of Kannapolis, NC, Danelle Jarstfer Jensen (Andrew) of Charlotte, NC, Dorothy Jarstfer Dillingham (Jared) of Barnardsville, NC, Deborah Jarstfer Linton (Evan) of Barnardsville, NC, Austin Jarstfer (Amber) of Tyler, TX, Ethan Jarstfer of Ashland, OH; Lisa Cross of Portsmouth, VA; Jeremy Cross (Charlotte) of of Portsmouth, VA; Aaron Cross (Beth) of Portsmouth, VA; Brittany Coleman McCauley (Matthew) of Charlotte, NC; Cliff Coleman (Brooke) of Montgomery, AL; Abigail Coleman Alamalhodaei (Abe) of Port Orange, FL; Dara Coleman Noel (William) of Naperville, IL; Gareth Cales (Kayleigh) of Jacksonville, FL; Courtney Cales Stover (Brenton) of Salem, OR; Liam Luna of Wesley Chapel, FL; and Reina Luna of Wesley Chapel, FL. (35 grandchildren and spouses)
Great grandchildren: Audra Tackett, Cadman, Ethan, and Lorelei Jackson; Hannah and Emma Jarstfer; Samuel, Nathaniel, Caleb, and Adelaide Jensen; Marjorie, Stella, Laurel, and Wesley Dillingham; Seth Linton; Gary, Matthew, Leigha, and Lexi Cross; Issac, Josiah, and Benjamin Cross; Ava McCauley; William “Lionheart” Coleman; Evelyn Alamalhodaei; and Aemelia Cales; (26 in all) plus many nieces and nephews.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Stacy and Lorene; his first wife, Marjorie Ellen Catey; brother, Dr. Bruce Jarstfer; and daughter, Wendy Cross Coleman.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in memory of Gary Jarstfer to JAARS. https://www.jaars.org/give/ Designate for use on the JAARS Center. In the comment box you will add “In memory of Gary Jarstfer.”
Class of 1953
Caroline Marie "Carrie" Plunkett Gunn
September 27, 1935 -- April 19, 2020 (Aged 85)
In memory of Caroline Marie "Carrie" Plunkett Gunn, class of 1953,
who passed away at the age of 84.
Carrie died in the arms of her husband on April 19, 2020. “You were the best thing that ever happened to me,” they would tell each other. Born September 27, 1935 in Lansing, MI. She was a 1953 graduate of Grand Ledge High School. She was a member of St. Gerard Church. Carrie was an avid golfer and bowler, but traveling to Arizona in winters and Grand Marais in summer were some of the best times. She was honored to throw out the first pitch at a Lansing Lugnuts game.
Surviving are her devoted husband of 41 years, Gerald “Jerry” Gunn; 6 Children Steve (Janice) Van Kirk, Cindy (Mark) Bennett, Joanie Van Kirk, Connie (Dave) Waddell, Jim (Shannon) Van Kirk, and Sharon (Dennis) Evans; her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought her great joy; 5 sisters, Marilyn (Ken) Sohn, Shirley (Stan) Smith, Pat (Mike) Thelen, Eileen (Bud) Thelen, and Lynda Plunkett; 2 brothers, Ray (Rosie) Plunkett, and Dale (Marion) Plunkett; many nieces, nephews, and friends. Carrie was preceded in death by her 2 sons, Doug and Steven Gunn; Parents, Aurelia “Jim” and Edward Plunkett; 4 brothers, Don, Phil, Pete, and Gordon Plunkett.
Private mass will be at St. Gerard Church with rite of committal at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. We would like to thank Theresa Albright, dear friend and caregiver, staff at Bookdale Senior Living, and Careline Hospice for their support and love to Carrie. Contributions may be made to St. Gerard Church or Careline Hospice in memory of Carrie. Arrangements by Tiffany Funeral Home. Friends may visit the guest book at www.tiffanyfuneralhome.com
Surviving are her devoted husband of 41 years, Gerald “Jerry” Gunn; 6 Children Steve (Janice) Van Kirk, Cindy (Mark) Bennett, Joanie Van Kirk, Connie (Dave) Waddell, Jim (Shannon) Van Kirk, and Sharon (Dennis) Evans; her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought her great joy; 5 sisters, Marilyn (Ken) Sohn, Shirley (Stan) Smith, Pat (Mike) Thelen, Eileen (Bud) Thelen, and Lynda Plunkett; 2 brothers, Ray (Rosie) Plunkett, and Dale (Marion) Plunkett; many nieces, nephews, and friends. Carrie was preceded in death by her 2 sons, Doug and Steven Gunn; Parents, Aurelia “Jim” and Edward Plunkett; 4 brothers, Don, Phil, Pete, and Gordon Plunkett.
Private mass will be at St. Gerard Church with rite of committal at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. We would like to thank Theresa Albright, dear friend and caregiver, staff at Bookdale Senior Living, and Careline Hospice for their support and love to Carrie. Contributions may be made to St. Gerard Church or Careline Hospice in memory of Carrie. Arrangements by Tiffany Funeral Home. Friends may visit the guest book at www.tiffanyfuneralhome.com
Class of 1953
Doyle Franklin Root
February 16, 1934 -- January 21, 2020 (Aged 85)
In memory of Gary Jaynes Jarstfer, class of 1953,
who passed away at the age of 84.
Doyle Franklin Root, age 85, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 21, 2020. Doyle was born on February 16, 1934 in his grandmother's house in Mulliken, Michigan to George L. and Irma F. Beck Root.
Doyle was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister Dema Wright. Surviving are his wife of 62 years Sharon, and their children; Lisa M. Root-Moore (Roger Rosentreter), Jeffrey A. Root (Staci Westjohn Robinson), and Michael D. Root. Also surviving are grandchildren; Dr. Philip W. Moore, Andy D. Moore (Katie), Sarah M. Moore Nava (Stefan) and Tyler Nicole Root, great-grandchildren; Jayden, Camden, Ethan and Eleanora Moore, Doyle's brother David L. Root (Barbara) and special friends Marvin Schultz, Dennis Reniger, Wayne Chaffee and Arthur Hartig.
A graduate of Grand Ledge High School and a veteran of the U.S. Army, Doyle was a doer of dreams, noted for his hard-working ethic, ambition, meticulous nature and resiliency. His many accomplishments included owning Root Electric, Inc. (Lansing), co-founder of the Bank of Commerce (Lansing) and developer of Willoughby Woods Subdivision (Holt). Doyle's many interests included beekeeping, fishing and raising Clydesdale horses.
Please join his family for Visitation on Friday, January 24, 2020 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes (900 East Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48912). Additional Visitation will begin at 10 AM on Saturday, January 25, 2020 until the time of his Funeral Service at 11 AM also at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Gunnisonville Cemetery.
The family would like to extend a thank you to McLaren Hospice nurses, and special volunteers at Mother Teresa House for the care shown to Doyle and his family. Memorial contributions may be made to Mother Teresa Hospice House (308 North Walnut Street, Lansing, MI) and the Capital Area Humane Society (7095 W. Grand River Ave., Lansing, MI).
Doyle was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister Dema Wright. Surviving are his wife of 62 years Sharon, and their children; Lisa M. Root-Moore (Roger Rosentreter), Jeffrey A. Root (Staci Westjohn Robinson), and Michael D. Root. Also surviving are grandchildren; Dr. Philip W. Moore, Andy D. Moore (Katie), Sarah M. Moore Nava (Stefan) and Tyler Nicole Root, great-grandchildren; Jayden, Camden, Ethan and Eleanora Moore, Doyle's brother David L. Root (Barbara) and special friends Marvin Schultz, Dennis Reniger, Wayne Chaffee and Arthur Hartig.
A graduate of Grand Ledge High School and a veteran of the U.S. Army, Doyle was a doer of dreams, noted for his hard-working ethic, ambition, meticulous nature and resiliency. His many accomplishments included owning Root Electric, Inc. (Lansing), co-founder of the Bank of Commerce (Lansing) and developer of Willoughby Woods Subdivision (Holt). Doyle's many interests included beekeeping, fishing and raising Clydesdale horses.
Please join his family for Visitation on Friday, January 24, 2020 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes (900 East Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48912). Additional Visitation will begin at 10 AM on Saturday, January 25, 2020 until the time of his Funeral Service at 11 AM also at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Gunnisonville Cemetery.
The family would like to extend a thank you to McLaren Hospice nurses, and special volunteers at Mother Teresa House for the care shown to Doyle and his family. Memorial contributions may be made to Mother Teresa Hospice House (308 North Walnut Street, Lansing, MI) and the Capital Area Humane Society (7095 W. Grand River Ave., Lansing, MI).
Class of 1953
Oleta P. Rumbaugh Koeppen
May19, 1933 -- January 7, 2020 (Aged 86)
In memory of Oleta P. Rumbaugh Koeppen, class of 1953,
who passed away at the age of 86.
Oleta Pearl Koeppen, 86, passed away at SKLD of Ionia on January 7, 2020. Oleta was born moments before her twin sister, Waneta, on May 19, 1933 to Ruby and Earl Rumbaugh. When she was 3, her mom passed away and the twins went to live with Mabel and Earl Rowland, the guardians who raised them. She attended Grand Ledge High School.
Oleta married Loile Koeppen on July 10, 1954. Farming really was their bread and butter. While her husband milked cows and worked on the farm, Oleta spent her days raising their five children: Donna, Louis, Marlene, Earl, and Mary. Oleta worked as a nurses' aide at the Ionia manor for 25 years, retiring in 1998. She always had a canine companion at her side, enjoyed going to the post office, and taking her great-grandkids to the 99-cent store. She was a member of St. Andrew's Lutheran Church in Portland.
Oleta is survived by her children: Donna (Dennis) Helmer, Louis (Kathy) Koeppen, Earl (Patty) Koeppen, and Mary (Raymond), 9 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Loile, daughter Marlene, and grandsons Frank and Scott Towers.
Memorial services will be held at Lake Funeral Home on Monday, January 13th at 2 p.m. Visitation will be at 1p.m. Those wishing may make memorial contributions to the Ionia County Animal Shelter. Online condolences may be made at www.lakefuneralhomes.com
Oleta married Loile Koeppen on July 10, 1954. Farming really was their bread and butter. While her husband milked cows and worked on the farm, Oleta spent her days raising their five children: Donna, Louis, Marlene, Earl, and Mary. Oleta worked as a nurses' aide at the Ionia manor for 25 years, retiring in 1998. She always had a canine companion at her side, enjoyed going to the post office, and taking her great-grandkids to the 99-cent store. She was a member of St. Andrew's Lutheran Church in Portland.
Oleta is survived by her children: Donna (Dennis) Helmer, Louis (Kathy) Koeppen, Earl (Patty) Koeppen, and Mary (Raymond), 9 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband Loile, daughter Marlene, and grandsons Frank and Scott Towers.
Memorial services will be held at Lake Funeral Home on Monday, January 13th at 2 p.m. Visitation will be at 1p.m. Those wishing may make memorial contributions to the Ionia County Animal Shelter. Online condolences may be made at www.lakefuneralhomes.com
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Class of 1954
Johanna Louise Beck Richardson
July 13, 1936 -- April 22, 2020
In memory of Johanna Louise "Beck" Richardson, class of 1954,
who passed away at the age of 83.
Johanna Louise Beck Richardson
July 13, 1936 -- April 22, 2020
In memory of Johanna Louise "Beck" Richardson, class of 1954,
who passed away at the age of 83.
Mrs. Johanna Richardson, age 83, passed away, April 22, 2020. She was born in Lake Odessa, MI on July 13, 1936 to William & Rosetta (Puff) Beck and married Carl L. Richardson on April 16, 1955. Johanna and Carl lived in Las Vegas for 30 years until moving back to Grand Haven. Johanna enjoyed sewing, traveling, class reunions and Keno.
SURVIVORS
Sons, Tom (Jordan), Steve (Sue); daughter, Carla (Les) Brand; 12 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren, She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Carl Richardson on February 17, 2019, son, Bill in 2019 & grandson, Scott Richardson.
SERVICE
Per Johanna's request, there will be no services. Please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com to leave a memory or sign the online guestbook. Clock Funeral Home - Muskegon.
SURVIVORS
Sons, Tom (Jordan), Steve (Sue); daughter, Carla (Les) Brand; 12 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren, She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Carl Richardson on February 17, 2019, son, Bill in 2019 & grandson, Scott Richardson.
SERVICE
Per Johanna's request, there will be no services. Please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com to leave a memory or sign the online guestbook. Clock Funeral Home - Muskegon.
Class of 1954
John Hubert Lehman
June 26, 1936 -- September 6, 2019
In memory of John Hubert Lehman, class of 1954,
who passed away at the age of 83.
John Hubert Lehman, a loving and caring, husband, father, and grandfather, of Charlotte, died Friday, September 6, 2019, surrounded by his loving family. John 83, was born June 26, 1936 in Portland, MI the son of Hubert and Lottie (Masiakowski) Lehman. After graduating from high school John joined the Army and proudly served his country. John worked at Bud Kouts Chevrolet as a Paint Technician, and later as a Truck Salesman. He also farmed his 223 acre farm and other farms around the area. When John was not farming he enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, traveling with his wife Linda, and watching Outdoor TV shows. His biggest passion in his life was his family.
John is survived by his wife, Linda; children, Karlene Lehman, Darrold (Trudy) Lehman, John (Jacquie) Lehman, Onna (Jim) Cross, Beth (Chris) Clarke, Bill (Jennifer) Sheldon, Bob (Eileen) Sheldon; 17 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren; siblings, Rosemary Harrington, Ken (Gail) Lehman. He was predeceased by his brothers, Nicholas Lehman and Bill Lehman; and his parents.
Friends are encouraged to support John’s family. Memorial services are Friday, September 13, 2019, at 12:00 Noon at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. Visitation is Friday, September 13, 2019, from 10:00 a.m. to 12 Noon. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to The American Cancer Society. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of John on his Tribute Page at www.PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
John is survived by his wife, Linda; children, Karlene Lehman, Darrold (Trudy) Lehman, John (Jacquie) Lehman, Onna (Jim) Cross, Beth (Chris) Clarke, Bill (Jennifer) Sheldon, Bob (Eileen) Sheldon; 17 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren; siblings, Rosemary Harrington, Ken (Gail) Lehman. He was predeceased by his brothers, Nicholas Lehman and Bill Lehman; and his parents.
Friends are encouraged to support John’s family. Memorial services are Friday, September 13, 2019, at 12:00 Noon at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. Visitation is Friday, September 13, 2019, from 10:00 a.m. to 12 Noon. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to The American Cancer Society. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of John on his Tribute Page at www.PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Class of 1954
Robert (Bob) Kendall Simons
December 24, 1935 -- June 20, 2019
In memory of Robert (Bob) Kendall Simons, class of 1954,
who passed away at the age of 83.
Robert (Bob) Kendall Simons of Grand Ledge, passed away July 20, 2019 at the age of 83. He was born on December 24, 1935 the son of Fred and Winifred (Chaplin) Simons. Robert retired from Olofsson Corporation after 35 years of service as a Machinist. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending winters with his wife in Mission, TX
Robert is survived by his sons: Mark (Diane) and Mitchell Simons; daughter: Margo (Emily Good) Simons; 4 grandchildren: Michelle (Dan) Hess, Rob (Amber) Simons, Brandon Griffes, and Adam (Amanda) Simons; 4 great grandchildren: Avery, Foster, Jack, and Reese and his nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Keva (Dec. 8, 2018), his parents, brother: Donald Simons; sisters: Barbara Laws, Eleanor Whiting and Freida Knisely.
Private services will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made directly to the Alzheimer’s Assoc. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
Robert is survived by his sons: Mark (Diane) and Mitchell Simons; daughter: Margo (Emily Good) Simons; 4 grandchildren: Michelle (Dan) Hess, Rob (Amber) Simons, Brandon Griffes, and Adam (Amanda) Simons; 4 great grandchildren: Avery, Foster, Jack, and Reese and his nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Keva (Dec. 8, 2018), his parents, brother: Donald Simons; sisters: Barbara Laws, Eleanor Whiting and Freida Knisely.
Private services will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made directly to the Alzheimer’s Assoc. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
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Class of 1955
Carl N. Falor
June 6, 1937 -- September 21, 2019
In memory of Carl N. Falor, class of 1955,
who passed away at the age of 83.
Carl N. Falor, age 82, passed away Saturday, September 21, 2019. He suffered several complications from being a diabetic, heart attack and even an amputation, but faced them all with no self-pity and some humor. He was a former and also worked construction, retiring from Granger Construction.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Juanita, 4 children: Carol, Jim (Kerry), Tim (Barb), and Eric, 5 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren.
Visitation will be Peters & Murray Funeral Home in Grand Ledge on Sunday, September 29, 2019 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. There will be a luncheon on Monday, September 30th at Eagle Park at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to North Eagle Cemetery Society or Hospice. www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Juanita, 4 children: Carol, Jim (Kerry), Tim (Barb), and Eric, 5 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren.
Visitation will be Peters & Murray Funeral Home in Grand Ledge on Sunday, September 29, 2019 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. There will be a luncheon on Monday, September 30th at Eagle Park at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to North Eagle Cemetery Society or Hospice. www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
Class of 1955
Dawn Gakle Custer
June 17, 2019
(NO OTHER INFORMATION WAS AVAILABLE AT THE TIME OF HER PASSING)
Class of 1955
Ralph L. Tillitson
September 17, 1934 -- December 24, 2019
In memory of Ralph L. Tillitson, class of 1955,
who passed away at the age of 85.
Ralph L. Tillitson, age 85, of Grand Ledge, MI, passed away December 24, 2019 in Lansing, MI. Born September 17, 1934 in Grand Ledge, son of Leon and Jennie (Maloney) Tillitson. Ralph served in the United States Air Force during the Korean Conflict. He retired from the City of Grand Ledge Waste Water Treatment Plant and also served the City of Grand Ledge as a volunteer fireman for 23 years, serving as Assistant Chief for a time. He enjoyed spending time at the lake, fishing and spending time with his family.
He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Lillian, their children: Kerry (Jim) Jesse, Ken (Dawn McCune) Tillitson, and Kimberly (Mel) Manning; grandchildren Shannah (Jonathan) Ashbay and Tayah Lee; great granddaughter Caroline Ashbay; brother Donald (Mary Lou) Tillitson, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister Mildred Norris.
In honoring Ralph’s request, cremation has taken place and no services will be held. Memorial contributions can be made to the Hospice House of Mid-Michigan, Grand Ledge Fire Dept., or Parkinson’s Foundation in memory of Ralph Tillitson. The family has entrusted arrangements to Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
He is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Lillian, their children: Kerry (Jim) Jesse, Ken (Dawn McCune) Tillitson, and Kimberly (Mel) Manning; grandchildren Shannah (Jonathan) Ashbay and Tayah Lee; great granddaughter Caroline Ashbay; brother Donald (Mary Lou) Tillitson, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister Mildred Norris.
In honoring Ralph’s request, cremation has taken place and no services will be held. Memorial contributions can be made to the Hospice House of Mid-Michigan, Grand Ledge Fire Dept., or Parkinson’s Foundation in memory of Ralph Tillitson. The family has entrusted arrangements to Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
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Class of 1956
Julaine Cramer Kern
May 7, 1938 -- August 2, 2019
In memory of Julaine Cramer Kern, class of 1956,
who passed away at the age of 81.
Julaine (Cramer) Kern, 81, passed away peacefully, on Friday, Aug. 2, 2019, at her home in Barryton, when her heart finally gave out after loving so many people for so long.
She was born in Grand Ledge on May 7, 1938, the daughter of Lloyd and Ilene (Fults) Cramer.
She moved to Barryton at the age of 18 to start a family and had three children. In 1967, she married Wes Kern, and had two new sons. Wes and Julaine lived out their lives together for almost 50 years.
Most of her working life was spent at Evart Products, retiring after about 30 years. Her passions, however, were music, writing and volunteering. During her life, she taught piano lessons, wrote numerous stories and shared her time and talent as a den mother, school grandma, nursing home clown and at the Barryton Historical Museum.
Julaine is survived by sons, John (Connie) Kern, of Warren, Texas, Jack (Susie) Kern, of Ashley, Don (Betsy Peterson) Kern, of Grand Rapids and Tom Kern, of Adrian; son-in-law, Brian Emmons; grandchildren, John (Stephanie) Kern Jr., Caroline Marie (Calvin) Roe, Ashley Bruguier, Janice Howell, Jason Speegle, Jeremy (Krysta) Kern, Eric Kern, Katherine Burch, Donald (Angie) Kern II, Thomas Kern Jr. and Linda (Frank) Hevel; great-grandchildren, Chase, Casey, Daniel, McKinsey, Spencer, Bradley, RaeLynn, Skyler, Tyler, Austin, Aiden, Ashley, Amber, Alexis, Integra, Owen, Annalisa, Megan, Baker and Lelia; sisters, Mary (Bob) Whinnen and Vickie (Herschel) Jensen.
Julaine was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Wes Kern and a daughter, Lauraine Emmons.
The family will greet friends from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8, 2019, at the Daggett Funeral Home, in Barryton and one hour prior to funeral services from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 9.
A celebration of Julaine's life will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, at the funeral home with Pastor Rick Lippert officiating.
She will be laid to rest with her husband, Wes, at East Fork Cemetery, in Barryton.
Memorial donations in Julaine's name can be made to Elara Caring Hospice.
Share a memory online at daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com.
She was born in Grand Ledge on May 7, 1938, the daughter of Lloyd and Ilene (Fults) Cramer.
She moved to Barryton at the age of 18 to start a family and had three children. In 1967, she married Wes Kern, and had two new sons. Wes and Julaine lived out their lives together for almost 50 years.
Most of her working life was spent at Evart Products, retiring after about 30 years. Her passions, however, were music, writing and volunteering. During her life, she taught piano lessons, wrote numerous stories and shared her time and talent as a den mother, school grandma, nursing home clown and at the Barryton Historical Museum.
Julaine is survived by sons, John (Connie) Kern, of Warren, Texas, Jack (Susie) Kern, of Ashley, Don (Betsy Peterson) Kern, of Grand Rapids and Tom Kern, of Adrian; son-in-law, Brian Emmons; grandchildren, John (Stephanie) Kern Jr., Caroline Marie (Calvin) Roe, Ashley Bruguier, Janice Howell, Jason Speegle, Jeremy (Krysta) Kern, Eric Kern, Katherine Burch, Donald (Angie) Kern II, Thomas Kern Jr. and Linda (Frank) Hevel; great-grandchildren, Chase, Casey, Daniel, McKinsey, Spencer, Bradley, RaeLynn, Skyler, Tyler, Austin, Aiden, Ashley, Amber, Alexis, Integra, Owen, Annalisa, Megan, Baker and Lelia; sisters, Mary (Bob) Whinnen and Vickie (Herschel) Jensen.
Julaine was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Wes Kern and a daughter, Lauraine Emmons.
The family will greet friends from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 8, 2019, at the Daggett Funeral Home, in Barryton and one hour prior to funeral services from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 9.
A celebration of Julaine's life will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, at the funeral home with Pastor Rick Lippert officiating.
She will be laid to rest with her husband, Wes, at East Fork Cemetery, in Barryton.
Memorial donations in Julaine's name can be made to Elara Caring Hospice.
Share a memory online at daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com.
Class of 1956
David Arthur LaCombe
December 7, 1937 -- November 22, 2019
In memory of David Arthur LaCombe, class of 1956,
who passed away at the age of 81.
David Arthur LaCombe was born to Russell & Eileen L. (Putnam) LaCombe on December 7, 1937 in Wayne County, Michigan. His dad was a weekly newspaper owner and his mother was an office manager for General Telephone in Grand Ledge.
David passed from this life on November 22, 2019 in New Braunfels, Texas at the age of 81.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Peggy LaCombe and his son, Bryan Michael LaCombe.
After losing his first wife, he finally met Diane.
David is survived by his wife, Diane LaCombe of New Braunfels; daughter, Jody Wynn of San Antonio, TX; son, David S. LaCombe, Jr. & wife, Deborah Lynn of Yakima, WA; his brother, Donald LaCombe was 4 years younger; sister-in-law, Dolly of South Lyon, MI; eleven great-grandchildren; twelve great-great-grandchildren and eight step-children.
A bit of a daredevil, he tried his skill at skiing off the garage roof at 9 or 10 years old and got his driver’s license at 14 years old. His favorite yearbook saying was “Why walk when your car runs?”
He joined the U.S. Air Force at 18 years of age in his senior year. He was sworn in January 1956. He spent 20 years in fighter aircraft maintenance while at San Antonio, Phoenix, Victorville, CA, Rome, NY, Michigan, Kansas City, MD, Mountain Home, ID, Lubbock, Vietnam, Germany and Greenland. After retirement he continued to work on LSI (Lear Siegler Int) for almost 30 years.
David had an interest in the sport of golf, sports cars and was President of the San Antonio Sports Car Association from 1972-75. He also was a Vestryman at St. Frances by the Lake Episcopal Church in Canyon Lake.
Memorial Services will be at 2:00 PM on Saturday, November 30, 2019 at St. Frances by the Lake Episcopal Church, 121 Spring Mountain Drive, Canyon Lake, TX 78133. Interment, with full military honors, will be held at 10:45 AM on Monday, December 2, 2019 at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to: The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation.
David passed from this life on November 22, 2019 in New Braunfels, Texas at the age of 81.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Peggy LaCombe and his son, Bryan Michael LaCombe.
After losing his first wife, he finally met Diane.
David is survived by his wife, Diane LaCombe of New Braunfels; daughter, Jody Wynn of San Antonio, TX; son, David S. LaCombe, Jr. & wife, Deborah Lynn of Yakima, WA; his brother, Donald LaCombe was 4 years younger; sister-in-law, Dolly of South Lyon, MI; eleven great-grandchildren; twelve great-great-grandchildren and eight step-children.
A bit of a daredevil, he tried his skill at skiing off the garage roof at 9 or 10 years old and got his driver’s license at 14 years old. His favorite yearbook saying was “Why walk when your car runs?”
He joined the U.S. Air Force at 18 years of age in his senior year. He was sworn in January 1956. He spent 20 years in fighter aircraft maintenance while at San Antonio, Phoenix, Victorville, CA, Rome, NY, Michigan, Kansas City, MD, Mountain Home, ID, Lubbock, Vietnam, Germany and Greenland. After retirement he continued to work on LSI (Lear Siegler Int) for almost 30 years.
David had an interest in the sport of golf, sports cars and was President of the San Antonio Sports Car Association from 1972-75. He also was a Vestryman at St. Frances by the Lake Episcopal Church in Canyon Lake.
Memorial Services will be at 2:00 PM on Saturday, November 30, 2019 at St. Frances by the Lake Episcopal Church, 121 Spring Mountain Drive, Canyon Lake, TX 78133. Interment, with full military honors, will be held at 10:45 AM on Monday, December 2, 2019 at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to: The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation.
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Class of 1957
Sally Kaye Hayes Culy
June 1, 1939 — December 20, 2019 (Aged 80)
In memory of Sally Kaye Culy, class of 1957,
who passed away at the age of 80.
Sally Kaye Culy, 80, of Mt. Pleasant, formerly of Mecosta, passed away Friday, December 20, 2019 at home with her daughter Amy and Amy’s partner Brenden by her side. She was born June 1, 1939 in Grand Ledge, MI the daughter of Leon and Barbara (Smith) Hayes. Sally graduated from Grand Ledge High School then attended Michigan State University for elementary education. Sally worked in the accounting department for the State of Michigan, then was the office manager and accountant for Gilbert & Ingalls Well Drilling Inc., and lastly worked at Evart Products. She was extremely talented, and did very well in whatever she tried her hand at, be it painting, crocheting, sewing, wood working, and the list goes on. Sally is survived by her daughter Amy Cantrell (Brenden McConkey) of Mt. Pleasant; seven grandsons, Justin (Annie) Kobus, Matt Cantrell, Corey Culy, Tyler Cantrel, Casey Culy, Jesse Cantrell, and Nick Culy; step grandchildren, Nick, Christopher, Nathan, and Anna McConkey; and thirteen great-grandchildren, Hunter, Mikayla, Logan, Preston, Callan, Mattilynn, Blaine, Kyris, Romi, Atlas, Sean, Miley, and Phoenix on the way. She was preceded in death by her husband Rodney in 2012 and her son Blaine William Culy. No services are planned at this time.
Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids.
A celebration of Sally’s life will be held at a date in the Spring or Summer of 2020.
Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids.
A celebration of Sally’s life will be held at a date in the Spring or Summer of 2020.
Class of 1957
Larry Lewis Rogers
July 20, 1939 -- October 15, 2019
In memory of Larry Lewis Rogers, class of 1957,
who passed away at the age of 80.
Mr. Rogers passed away at his home on Tuesday October 15, 2019 following a lingering illness. At his wishes his body has been donated to medical research to help others.
FROM HIS DAUGHTER: "Well everyone, it is with a very very heavy heart that I let you know my dad Larry passed away this morning. I ask that you all keep my son Russ Putvin and my brother Charles L. Rogers and dad's wife Sheila in your prayers.
My dad truly loved being a part of Manton and everybody in it. He especially liked going to the ball games to watch his grandchildren! We all thank you very very much for all the love and support you have shown my dad over the last 30 some years! We can't thank you enough!
There will be a memorial in the near future for my dad and I will keep you all updated as to when that will be. Thank you so very much!"
FROM HIS DAUGHTER: "Well everyone, it is with a very very heavy heart that I let you know my dad Larry passed away this morning. I ask that you all keep my son Russ Putvin and my brother Charles L. Rogers and dad's wife Sheila in your prayers.
My dad truly loved being a part of Manton and everybody in it. He especially liked going to the ball games to watch his grandchildren! We all thank you very very much for all the love and support you have shown my dad over the last 30 some years! We can't thank you enough!
There will be a memorial in the near future for my dad and I will keep you all updated as to when that will be. Thank you so very much!"
Class of 1957
Jerry Dean Waldrop
August 21, 1939 -- September 25, 2019
In memory of Jerry Dean Waldrop, class of 1957,
who passed away at the age of 80.
Jerry Dean Waldrop of Eagle passed away September 25, 2019 in Lansing, MI. He was born August 21, 1939 in Rockville, Indiana and raised by the late Virgil and Arizona (Floyd) Waldrop. Jerry graduated with the Grand Ledge High School Class of 1957 and went on to receive a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering from the University of Michigan. He began his career at McNamee Porter & Seely before working as a Project Manager at Clark Construction Co. for 23 years. Always a community supporter, Jerry spent many years coaching and promoting high school athletics. He volunteered for Ann Arbor Pioneer High School concessions before moving back to Grand Ledge. At Grand Ledge High School he announced freshman and JV football games, took tickets during many athletic events and was an announcer and past President of GLAYF Football. It was not uncommon to hear Jerry’s enthusiastic voice booming out of the PA and down the streets Thursday nights and weekends. Jerry was also an avid golfer, woodworker and die-hard University of Michigan Football fan.
He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Shirley J. (Hamill); children, Ginny (Ricky) Anglin, Kim Waldrop, Eric (Ann), Debbie (Mickey) Fearon, Jeff (Jen), Bill (Jen), Jason (Stacey), Mike (Henry) and Doug (Carly): daughter-in-law Donna Waldrop; grandchildren, Kyle, Chris, Jenna, Jesse, Sam, Tyler, DJ, Kelly, Robbie, Ben, Jake, Cali, Gabe, Sydney, Will, Kaitlyn, Cady, Jesse, Brooklyn and Mallory; great grandchildren, Willhemina, Amelia, Sebastian, Mary, Joe, Charlotte and Landon; siblings, Katherine Thompson, Dwayne (Barb), Nancy (Ken) Spencer and Martha Waldrop; brothers-in-law, Rick (Lynda) Hamill and Patrick Hamill; along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Jerry was preceded in death by son, Joe, siblings, Bob, Earl, Don, Raymond, Norman, Eva Feazel, Naomi Sunderman.
The funeral service will be held Tuesday, October 1, 2019, 11:00 a.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge with Pastor Roy Atherton, officiating. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday from 4-8:00 p.m. and Tuesday 1 hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions in Jerry's name may be given to Ledge Craft Lane, 120 S. Bridge Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837, American Diabetes Association, 20700 Civic Center Drive 100, Southfield, Michigan 48076 (https://www.diabetes.org/donate) or Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation, 17932 Sky Park Circle, Suite E, Irvine, California 92614
https://cure.pcrf-kids.org/give/231187/#!/donation/checkout
He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Shirley J. (Hamill); children, Ginny (Ricky) Anglin, Kim Waldrop, Eric (Ann), Debbie (Mickey) Fearon, Jeff (Jen), Bill (Jen), Jason (Stacey), Mike (Henry) and Doug (Carly): daughter-in-law Donna Waldrop; grandchildren, Kyle, Chris, Jenna, Jesse, Sam, Tyler, DJ, Kelly, Robbie, Ben, Jake, Cali, Gabe, Sydney, Will, Kaitlyn, Cady, Jesse, Brooklyn and Mallory; great grandchildren, Willhemina, Amelia, Sebastian, Mary, Joe, Charlotte and Landon; siblings, Katherine Thompson, Dwayne (Barb), Nancy (Ken) Spencer and Martha Waldrop; brothers-in-law, Rick (Lynda) Hamill and Patrick Hamill; along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Jerry was preceded in death by son, Joe, siblings, Bob, Earl, Don, Raymond, Norman, Eva Feazel, Naomi Sunderman.
The funeral service will be held Tuesday, October 1, 2019, 11:00 a.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge with Pastor Roy Atherton, officiating. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday from 4-8:00 p.m. and Tuesday 1 hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions in Jerry's name may be given to Ledge Craft Lane, 120 S. Bridge Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837, American Diabetes Association, 20700 Civic Center Drive 100, Southfield, Michigan 48076 (https://www.diabetes.org/donate) or Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation, 17932 Sky Park Circle, Suite E, Irvine, California 92614
https://cure.pcrf-kids.org/give/231187/#!/donation/checkout
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Class of 1958
John Richard Black
May 20, 1940 -- June 15, 2019
In memory of John Richard Black, class of 1958,
who passed away at the age of 79.
John Richard Black, age 79, of Mason, Michigan passed away Saturday, June 15, 2019 at Burcham Hills Retirement Community in East Lansing under the loving care of his family and Michigan Premier Hospice. He was born on May 20, 1940 in Lansing, Michigan to parents Frederick William Black and Thelma Gladys Wooten.
John grew up in Wacousta and graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1958 and shortly thereafter enlisted in the Navy, serving on the tank landing ship USS Suffolk County until his Honorable Discharge in 1963 and the beginning of his dedicated 36 year career at the General Motors Lansing Oldsmobile Assembly Plant.
A General Motors co-worker introduced him to Kay (Powers) of Mason and they have been married since 1986. Together they enjoyed traveling, gardening and attending basketball and baseball games. John was a devoted fan of Tiger baseball, Lions football and MSU Spartan athletics and a talented amateur photographer (for someone that didn’t particularly care to have his photo taken).
John is preceded in death by both of his parents and nephew Brian Becker. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife Kay, sisters Pat Lund and Vicky (Dale) Stelwagen, stepdaughters Tammy (Keith) Scott and Jenna (Jim) Patterson, grandchildren Ken Westervelt, Kristin (Nate) Lilly, Andrew Westervelt and Devin Nault, great grandchild Greyson Westervelt and several loving nieces and nephews.
In keeping with John’s wishes, no visitation/funeral service is planned. Burial will occur during a private family ceremony at Wacousta Cemetery in Watertown Township.
Memorial donations may be directed to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or the Lewy Body Dementia Association.
John grew up in Wacousta and graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1958 and shortly thereafter enlisted in the Navy, serving on the tank landing ship USS Suffolk County until his Honorable Discharge in 1963 and the beginning of his dedicated 36 year career at the General Motors Lansing Oldsmobile Assembly Plant.
A General Motors co-worker introduced him to Kay (Powers) of Mason and they have been married since 1986. Together they enjoyed traveling, gardening and attending basketball and baseball games. John was a devoted fan of Tiger baseball, Lions football and MSU Spartan athletics and a talented amateur photographer (for someone that didn’t particularly care to have his photo taken).
John is preceded in death by both of his parents and nephew Brian Becker. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife Kay, sisters Pat Lund and Vicky (Dale) Stelwagen, stepdaughters Tammy (Keith) Scott and Jenna (Jim) Patterson, grandchildren Ken Westervelt, Kristin (Nate) Lilly, Andrew Westervelt and Devin Nault, great grandchild Greyson Westervelt and several loving nieces and nephews.
In keeping with John’s wishes, no visitation/funeral service is planned. Burial will occur during a private family ceremony at Wacousta Cemetery in Watertown Township.
Memorial donations may be directed to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or the Lewy Body Dementia Association.
Class of 1958
Lyle E. O'Boyle
November 13, 1939 -- August 1, 2019
In memory of Lyle E. O'Boyle, class of 1958,
who passed away at the age of 79.
Lyle E. O’Boyle, 79, of Grand Ledge, MI, born November 13, 1939 in Lansing, MI, passed away at home on August 1, 2019. He was retired from Roberts-Sinto Corp., served in the United States Army and Army National Guard of Michigan, and was a professional dog watcher. He enjoyed spending time with his loving family, wonderful friends, and walking his neighbor’s dogs.
Lyle is survived by his son Todd (Melanie) O’Boyle, daughter Lori (Dan) Demitroff; 7 grandchildren: Austin, Zachary, Amanda, Jordan, Katelyn, Haley and Nicholas; sister-in-law Valarie (Ken) Dabrowski, several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Kathleen (2018), brothers Duane (Carol) and Larry O’Boyle, and sister Darlene Berghorst.
A memorial service will be held Wednesday, August 7, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. Peters & Murray, Grand Ledge. Military Honors will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. For those wishing, memorial contributions can be made to the Capital Area Humane Society. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com.
Lyle is survived by his son Todd (Melanie) O’Boyle, daughter Lori (Dan) Demitroff; 7 grandchildren: Austin, Zachary, Amanda, Jordan, Katelyn, Haley and Nicholas; sister-in-law Valarie (Ken) Dabrowski, several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Kathleen (2018), brothers Duane (Carol) and Larry O’Boyle, and sister Darlene Berghorst.
A memorial service will be held Wednesday, August 7, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. Peters & Murray, Grand Ledge. Military Honors will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. For those wishing, memorial contributions can be made to the Capital Area Humane Society. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com.
Class of 1958
Gordon Leo “Flash” Shepard
March 9, 1940 -- November 19, 2019
In memory of Gordon Leo “Flash” Shepard, class of 1958,
who passed away at the age of 79.
Gordon Leo “Flash” Shepard passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 19, 2019, at his home in Petoskey, Michigan. He was 79 years old. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Rita Gasco Shepard in 2008. He is survived by his daughters Carrie (Tony) Kerns; Michelle (Peter) Hernek, parents of Stephen, Robert, Sergei, and Jenah; and son, Gordon (Angela) Shepard II, parents of Madison, Kaitlyn and Gordon, III. Also surviving are sisters Sally Page and Rebecca Shepard Fenrick, brother Bill Shepard, and Rita's children Vicki (Chris) Lynn, Regina (Brian) Carver, Stella (Dave) Kay and Harvey Brubaker, as well as several grand and great grandchildren. In addition to his wife, Flash was preceded in death by his parents, and three siblings, Nancy, Tuff and Jim.
Gordon was born on March 9th, 1940 in Owosso, Michigan and was one of seven children of Marion and Lola (Koivuniemi) Shepard. He grew up in Grand Ledge, Michigan and graduated from GLHS in 1958. After graduation he joined the Navy and flew missions as a submarine spotter. He served tours of duty in Hawaii, Japan and Key West.
After leaving the Navy, Gordon went to work for Dudley Paper Company, later Copco Paper, and Unisource until he retired. If you were a customer, you could set your calendar to his route schedule. He traveled up and down the State of Michigan and had the same customers over his forty plus years before his retirement.
Flash loved motorcycles and loved taking trips on his road bike. In 1981, Gordon renamed himself “Flash Gordon” after surviving being struck by lightning while driving his motorcycle on I-75 after his Finnish family reunion in the U.P. Flash was like a cat with nine lives. He kept beating the odds. He was SISU. A doctor in a car that was following him administered first aid, and he was taken by ambulance to the hospital. The lightning actually improved his eyesight. He was told he couldn't play golf for the rest of the year because he had to stay out of the sun. Possessed of a delightful quirkiness and more than enough ingenuity, and not one to let anything interfere with his golf game – he lived and breathed golf – he bought himself a good covering beach umbrella and played on.
Seems like golf was always a connector. He met the love of his life, Rita Gasco Brubaker in 1991 and they later married. Their first blind date was as partners in a charity golf tournament in Harbor Springs, Michigan. Perfect. What could be better? They fulfilled each other's needs, were both bargain shoppers, and best of all, Rita was a really good golfer. They played golf as much as possible, and she beat him as much as possible. They had a small miniature doberman named Duke, and he was often seen on the golf course in St. Ignace running the fairways and chasing the geese away. Duke became Flash's connection to Rita after her death from cancer in 2008. You never saw Flash on the golf course without Duke walking with him or riding in the cart.
Flash was a bird lover. He prided himself in being "the bird man" of Petoskey. He had a balcony loaded with bird feeders, bird houses, tons of seed, and devices to chase away the squirrels while his birds were hanging out. He had five bird clocks that tweeted the quarter hour, half hour and hour. All different bird calls, and he knew them all.
As a widower, Flash kept very busy doing volunteer work of all kinds. He loved people, and they loved him. A greeting always required a hug. He volunteered at the Friendship Center in Petoskey, delivered blood all over the State of Michigan for the Red Cross, and drove the Elder's bus for the Little Traverse Bay Band of Odawa Indians. He was a recycler. He kept any highway he drove clean by picking up bottles and cans that people threw out of their cars.
The word quirkiness describes Flash and his many wonderful idiosyncrasies. A flyswatter was always within reach. This inspired his daughter to present him with a unique flyswatter bouquet for Father's day. He was loved by anyone who knew him. He was mostly a man of few words, but if compelled, the expletives would give George Carlin a run for his money.
Food: He loved pasties, he was a Finn, but his greatest love was …... peanut butter. He ate it on everything. He kept an emergency jar in his car in case he was having dinner where there might not be PB for his hamburger, or even his ice cream for dessert. It was for Flash that the peanut butter lappan, a Hungarian dessert was invented. Apple lappan, blueberry lappan, cherry lappan – and now peanut butter lappan.
He will be missed by many people whose lives were made better by knowing him. Rest in Peace, Flash. Charitable donations in memory of Flash are asked to please be directed to the Harbor Hall Treatment Center in Petoskey.
Gordon was born on March 9th, 1940 in Owosso, Michigan and was one of seven children of Marion and Lola (Koivuniemi) Shepard. He grew up in Grand Ledge, Michigan and graduated from GLHS in 1958. After graduation he joined the Navy and flew missions as a submarine spotter. He served tours of duty in Hawaii, Japan and Key West.
After leaving the Navy, Gordon went to work for Dudley Paper Company, later Copco Paper, and Unisource until he retired. If you were a customer, you could set your calendar to his route schedule. He traveled up and down the State of Michigan and had the same customers over his forty plus years before his retirement.
Flash loved motorcycles and loved taking trips on his road bike. In 1981, Gordon renamed himself “Flash Gordon” after surviving being struck by lightning while driving his motorcycle on I-75 after his Finnish family reunion in the U.P. Flash was like a cat with nine lives. He kept beating the odds. He was SISU. A doctor in a car that was following him administered first aid, and he was taken by ambulance to the hospital. The lightning actually improved his eyesight. He was told he couldn't play golf for the rest of the year because he had to stay out of the sun. Possessed of a delightful quirkiness and more than enough ingenuity, and not one to let anything interfere with his golf game – he lived and breathed golf – he bought himself a good covering beach umbrella and played on.
Seems like golf was always a connector. He met the love of his life, Rita Gasco Brubaker in 1991 and they later married. Their first blind date was as partners in a charity golf tournament in Harbor Springs, Michigan. Perfect. What could be better? They fulfilled each other's needs, were both bargain shoppers, and best of all, Rita was a really good golfer. They played golf as much as possible, and she beat him as much as possible. They had a small miniature doberman named Duke, and he was often seen on the golf course in St. Ignace running the fairways and chasing the geese away. Duke became Flash's connection to Rita after her death from cancer in 2008. You never saw Flash on the golf course without Duke walking with him or riding in the cart.
Flash was a bird lover. He prided himself in being "the bird man" of Petoskey. He had a balcony loaded with bird feeders, bird houses, tons of seed, and devices to chase away the squirrels while his birds were hanging out. He had five bird clocks that tweeted the quarter hour, half hour and hour. All different bird calls, and he knew them all.
As a widower, Flash kept very busy doing volunteer work of all kinds. He loved people, and they loved him. A greeting always required a hug. He volunteered at the Friendship Center in Petoskey, delivered blood all over the State of Michigan for the Red Cross, and drove the Elder's bus for the Little Traverse Bay Band of Odawa Indians. He was a recycler. He kept any highway he drove clean by picking up bottles and cans that people threw out of their cars.
The word quirkiness describes Flash and his many wonderful idiosyncrasies. A flyswatter was always within reach. This inspired his daughter to present him with a unique flyswatter bouquet for Father's day. He was loved by anyone who knew him. He was mostly a man of few words, but if compelled, the expletives would give George Carlin a run for his money.
Food: He loved pasties, he was a Finn, but his greatest love was …... peanut butter. He ate it on everything. He kept an emergency jar in his car in case he was having dinner where there might not be PB for his hamburger, or even his ice cream for dessert. It was for Flash that the peanut butter lappan, a Hungarian dessert was invented. Apple lappan, blueberry lappan, cherry lappan – and now peanut butter lappan.
He will be missed by many people whose lives were made better by knowing him. Rest in Peace, Flash. Charitable donations in memory of Flash are asked to please be directed to the Harbor Hall Treatment Center in Petoskey.
Class of 1958
Patricia A. Westrick Rueckert
June 20, 1942 -- April 19, 2020 (Aged 77)
In memory of Patricia A. "Westrick" Rueckert", class of 1958,
who passed away at the age of 78.
Patricia A. Rueckert of Grand Ledge passed away April 19, 2020. Pat was born August 27, 1939 in Beal City, Michigan to the late Cyril S. and Ruth P. (Martin) Westrick. She graduated from Grand Ledge High School and retired from the State of Michigan after working many years as an Administrative Assistant.
She is survived by her loving husband, Gordon; son, Robert; son-in-law, Herb Seymour; 8 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; brother, Dale (Doris) Westrick; sister-in-law, Kay Westrick. Patricia was preceded in death by daughters, Barbara Seymour and Debra Beers ; brothers, Gerald and James Westick.
A private family memorial will be held at a later time. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
She is survived by her loving husband, Gordon; son, Robert; son-in-law, Herb Seymour; 8 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; brother, Dale (Doris) Westrick; sister-in-law, Kay Westrick. Patricia was preceded in death by daughters, Barbara Seymour and Debra Beers ; brothers, Gerald and James Westick.
A private family memorial will be held at a later time. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
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Class of 1960
Lucille Eschtruth Saling-Gatzke
June 20, 1942 -- July 26, 2019
In memory of Lucille "Eschtruth" Saling-Gatzke, class of 1960,
who passed away at the age of 77.
Lucille was born to Walter E. and Dorris [Greenwood] Eschtruth on June 20, 1942, at Clinton Memorial Hospital in St. Johns Michigan.
Her first home was on the west side of DeWitt Road in the farm home originally build by her maternal grandfather, where her mother grew up. The Greenwood family…Great grandparents [both Green & Greenwood], grandparents, an aunt, an uncle and cousins all lived in homes on the east side of DeWitt Road. The Greenwood school was built on family property and is where Dorris attended grades 1-8 all within a mile of what was now the Eschtruth farm.
Her family lived on this farm until September 1946, when her uncle, Frank Eschtruth, asked her father to come to Grand Ledge to help him at his appliance store [Eschtruth Electric Company]. The decision was to make the move. The family who purchased the farm had two houses in Grand Ledge one on Union Street and one on Kent Street as a down payment. Lucille and her father commuted from St. Johns to Grand Ledge daily for a few weeks until a house on Union Street in Grand Ledge had been vacated. They lived on Union Street for less than a year before moving to Kent Street once remodeling was completed.
In the spring of 1953, her parents bought an old farm house on Willow Highway, remodeled it and the family moved shortly before the school year and rode the school bus for the first time. Lucille was in the sixth grade at that time and graduated from high school in 1960.
Lucille participated in church and school choirs from the time she was 5 and always enjoyed music; learning to play the piano and organ. 1960 was an eventful year...she met Kurt Saling and became engaged, the high school choir director chose her as the lead soprano in the musical “Down in the Valley”, this performance was one week before graduation and one week later on the 15th of June she was married in a small family ceremony at their Willow Highway home.
The couple lived in the Lansing area, first in an apartment until the house they were building was completed; they did this two more times, the last house was in Grand Ledge. They had their first son, Albert in 1961 and second son, Timothy in 1964. Between 1966 and 1991 the family lived in Grand Rapids 3½ years, East Lansing 2½ years, Birmingham 9 years, Brighton 5 years, Farmington Hills 5 years before divorcing in the spring of 1991.
She was an artist and painted from 1973 until 2007 producing abundant artwork and winning several awards for paintings entered in various competitions.
In 1979 she moved to Eaton Rapids and was a caregiver for her parents. She spent three winters in Mesa, AZ, working for Kelly Services temp agency during the time there. In 2000, she began working for the VFW National Home for Children in Eaton Rapids. Retiring from there in May of 2004 to go to England to marry her fiancé, which ended up not happening due to international red tape.
She had been searching for a church home and eventually found and began attending the fellowship at the Assembly of Yahweh in 2002 where she learned about Yahweh’s (God’s) feasts in scripture. Le 23:21 And ye shall proclaim on the selfsame day, that it may be an holy convocation unto you: ye shall do no servile work therein: it shall be a statute for ever in all your dwellings throughout your generations. Shortly afterward she began playing the piano for services and in the autumn of 2008 she began helping with correspondence in the office at AOY.
AOY hosts the Feast of Tabernacles each year and in 2006, Fred and Beth Gatzke attended. Beth and Lucille enjoyed each other’s company and looked forward to seeing each other when they traveled from the Upper Peninsula for various functions at the Assembly. In 2009 they moved to Eaton Rapids to help at the Assembly; Beth passed away in December of that year; Fred remained at AOY to help.
Fred and Lucille became better acquainted as the time progressed and in November announced to Lucille’s family that they were going to marry on December 2, 2010. She felt very blessed, after 20 years of single life to find a man of faith and love of the Heavenly Father. Both continued working at AOY until October 2012, when they moved to Eaton Rapids Campground because her father needed more assistance. Lucille’s vision was becoming problematic and she found it challenging to read music and to do regular office work so made the difficult decision to resign.lences online in Marilyn 's Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com.
Her first home was on the west side of DeWitt Road in the farm home originally build by her maternal grandfather, where her mother grew up. The Greenwood family…Great grandparents [both Green & Greenwood], grandparents, an aunt, an uncle and cousins all lived in homes on the east side of DeWitt Road. The Greenwood school was built on family property and is where Dorris attended grades 1-8 all within a mile of what was now the Eschtruth farm.
Her family lived on this farm until September 1946, when her uncle, Frank Eschtruth, asked her father to come to Grand Ledge to help him at his appliance store [Eschtruth Electric Company]. The decision was to make the move. The family who purchased the farm had two houses in Grand Ledge one on Union Street and one on Kent Street as a down payment. Lucille and her father commuted from St. Johns to Grand Ledge daily for a few weeks until a house on Union Street in Grand Ledge had been vacated. They lived on Union Street for less than a year before moving to Kent Street once remodeling was completed.
In the spring of 1953, her parents bought an old farm house on Willow Highway, remodeled it and the family moved shortly before the school year and rode the school bus for the first time. Lucille was in the sixth grade at that time and graduated from high school in 1960.
Lucille participated in church and school choirs from the time she was 5 and always enjoyed music; learning to play the piano and organ. 1960 was an eventful year...she met Kurt Saling and became engaged, the high school choir director chose her as the lead soprano in the musical “Down in the Valley”, this performance was one week before graduation and one week later on the 15th of June she was married in a small family ceremony at their Willow Highway home.
The couple lived in the Lansing area, first in an apartment until the house they were building was completed; they did this two more times, the last house was in Grand Ledge. They had their first son, Albert in 1961 and second son, Timothy in 1964. Between 1966 and 1991 the family lived in Grand Rapids 3½ years, East Lansing 2½ years, Birmingham 9 years, Brighton 5 years, Farmington Hills 5 years before divorcing in the spring of 1991.
She was an artist and painted from 1973 until 2007 producing abundant artwork and winning several awards for paintings entered in various competitions.
In 1979 she moved to Eaton Rapids and was a caregiver for her parents. She spent three winters in Mesa, AZ, working for Kelly Services temp agency during the time there. In 2000, she began working for the VFW National Home for Children in Eaton Rapids. Retiring from there in May of 2004 to go to England to marry her fiancé, which ended up not happening due to international red tape.
She had been searching for a church home and eventually found and began attending the fellowship at the Assembly of Yahweh in 2002 where she learned about Yahweh’s (God’s) feasts in scripture. Le 23:21 And ye shall proclaim on the selfsame day, that it may be an holy convocation unto you: ye shall do no servile work therein: it shall be a statute for ever in all your dwellings throughout your generations. Shortly afterward she began playing the piano for services and in the autumn of 2008 she began helping with correspondence in the office at AOY.
AOY hosts the Feast of Tabernacles each year and in 2006, Fred and Beth Gatzke attended. Beth and Lucille enjoyed each other’s company and looked forward to seeing each other when they traveled from the Upper Peninsula for various functions at the Assembly. In 2009 they moved to Eaton Rapids to help at the Assembly; Beth passed away in December of that year; Fred remained at AOY to help.
Fred and Lucille became better acquainted as the time progressed and in November announced to Lucille’s family that they were going to marry on December 2, 2010. She felt very blessed, after 20 years of single life to find a man of faith and love of the Heavenly Father. Both continued working at AOY until October 2012, when they moved to Eaton Rapids Campground because her father needed more assistance. Lucille’s vision was becoming problematic and she found it challenging to read music and to do regular office work so made the difficult decision to resign.lences online in Marilyn 's Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com.
Class of 1960
Judith Lynn "Fuller" Dyer
November 19, 1942 -- July 13, 2019
In memory of Judith Lynn "Fuller" Dyer, class of 1960,
who passed away at the age of 76.
Judith Lynn Dyer of Charlotte age 76, our loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother passed away on July 13, 2019. Born November 19, 1942 in Lansing, MI. Judith was a great mom and was always there for us. Caring for her family was her life. She was a life member of the V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary, and was past president of the Cooties.
Surviving are her husband of 57 years, John P. Dyer; 3 children Mary (Brian) Heightchew, Michael (Robin) Dyer, and Melinda (Pierre) Potter; 5 grandchildren, Sarah (Ryan Shipman) Heightchew, Bruce (Shelby) Heightchew, Nicole (Tim) Graham, Emilia (Austin Wilson) Potter, and Eric Potter; 4 great-grandchildren with one on the way; sister, Linda (Eleazar) Montez; and many other family members and friends. Judith was preceded in death by her parents, Bruce and Beatrice Fuller; brother, Bruce Allen Fuller.
Visitation is from 11:00 – 1:00 P.M. Thursday with the celebration of Judith’s life at 1:00 P.M. Thursday, July 18, 2019 in the Tiffany Funeral Home, 3232 W. Saginaw, Lansing. Interment Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of Judith. Friends may visit the guest book at www.tiffanyfuneralhome.com
Surviving are her husband of 57 years, John P. Dyer; 3 children Mary (Brian) Heightchew, Michael (Robin) Dyer, and Melinda (Pierre) Potter; 5 grandchildren, Sarah (Ryan Shipman) Heightchew, Bruce (Shelby) Heightchew, Nicole (Tim) Graham, Emilia (Austin Wilson) Potter, and Eric Potter; 4 great-grandchildren with one on the way; sister, Linda (Eleazar) Montez; and many other family members and friends. Judith was preceded in death by her parents, Bruce and Beatrice Fuller; brother, Bruce Allen Fuller.
Visitation is from 11:00 – 1:00 P.M. Thursday with the celebration of Judith’s life at 1:00 P.M. Thursday, July 18, 2019 in the Tiffany Funeral Home, 3232 W. Saginaw, Lansing. Interment Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of Judith. Friends may visit the guest book at www.tiffanyfuneralhome.com
Class of 1960
Roger D. Kirby
June 1, 1942 -- January 31, 2020
In memory of Roger D. Kirby, class of 1960,
who passed away at the age of 77.
Roger D. Kirby, 77, of Lincoln, passed away January 31, 2020. He was born June 1, 1942 to Clare and Mary (Woodrow) Kirby, in Lansing, MI. He graduated from from Michigan State University and then received his PhD from Cornell University.
Roger retired from the University of Nebraska Lincoln where he was Professor and (for 12 years) Chair of Physics and Astronomy. He enjoyed playing tennis with his friends at Woods Tennis Center and was a long time member of the American Physical Society.
He is survived by his wife Sue and son Steve, both of Lincoln. Preceded in death by his parents.
Memorials may be given to the UNL Foundation (Kirby Fund for Physics) or to the Food Bank of Lincoln. Cremation. Celebration of life at later date.
Roger retired from the University of Nebraska Lincoln where he was Professor and (for 12 years) Chair of Physics and Astronomy. He enjoyed playing tennis with his friends at Woods Tennis Center and was a long time member of the American Physical Society.
He is survived by his wife Sue and son Steve, both of Lincoln. Preceded in death by his parents.
Memorials may be given to the UNL Foundation (Kirby Fund for Physics) or to the Food Bank of Lincoln. Cremation. Celebration of life at later date.
Class of 1960
Janet Kay "Noecker" Grove
July 8, 1942 -- November 30, 2019
In memory of Janet Kay "Noecker" Grove, class of 1960,
who passed away at the age of 77.
Janet Kay Grove, age 77, passed away on Saturday, November 30, 2019 at MidMichigan Medical Center in Alma. She was born on July 8, 1942 in Grand Ledge to Leonard and Iva (Miles) Noecker. Janet lived in Rose City since 1976, formerly of Grand Ledge.
Janet is survived by her son, Scott L. (Chris) Grove of Rose City; granddaughters, Sarah (Andy) Zettel and Amanda (Travis) Collins; and great grandchildren, Taylin Collins, Travis Collins Jr. and Grant Zettel. She is preceded in death by her husband, Gerald Grove.
The Funeral Service will be held at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch on Wednesday, December 4, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. with visitation starting at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Lane Heights Cemetery.
Online condolences can be shared at www.steuernolmclaren.com
Janet is survived by her son, Scott L. (Chris) Grove of Rose City; granddaughters, Sarah (Andy) Zettel and Amanda (Travis) Collins; and great grandchildren, Taylin Collins, Travis Collins Jr. and Grant Zettel. She is preceded in death by her husband, Gerald Grove.
The Funeral Service will be held at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch on Wednesday, December 4, 2019 at 2:00 p.m. with visitation starting at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Lane Heights Cemetery.
Online condolences can be shared at www.steuernolmclaren.com
Class of 1960
Marilyn Kay "Shultz" Parr
April 29, 1945 -- June 7, 2019
In memory of Marilyn Kay "Shultz" Parr, class of 1960,
who passed away at the age of 77.
Marilyn Kay (Shultz) Parr, 77 of Potterville, passed quickly and peacefully into the arms of Jesus on Friday, June 7, 2019. Marilyn was born March 16, 1942 in Portland, IN, the daughter of Charles and Freda (McLaughlin) Shultz. Marilyn graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1960. Her favorite childhood memory was the time she spent with her horse Suzie. In her early years she worked for Greens Apparel, Kroger and LaBare Sand and Gravel. On June 18, 1983 she married Stanley L. Parr at their farm in Bellevue. Marilyn and Stan started driving bus in 1986 at Bellevue Community Schools. She was employed there until having to retire early, in 1995, due to a bus accident. Marilyn enjoyed driving her bus and loved taking on extra bus trips with Stan. They would drive students to their sporting/miscellaneous events. She really enjoyed life on the farm with Stan. She loved working in her flower beds and garden very much! Stan and she taught Sunday school at church. They also had a senior citizen's ministry they loved to run, called The Pioneer Kids. She was most proud of her family and would like to be remembered for Loving the Lord and her strawberry jam!
Marilyn is survived by her children, Stacie (Mark) Gay and David LaBare; grandchildren, Samantha (Kyle) Heuer, Kendra and Kimber Gay, Julia and Lacey LaBare; great-grandchildren, Rasheed and Kenan Milligan; Stan's children, Debby (Ken) Burkett, Kathy Newton, Dave (Lori) Parr, along with all their children and grandchildren; and brother, Larry (Judy) Shultz. She is pre-deceased by her parents; husband, Stan; and brothers, Paul and Dennis.
A funeral service celebrating Marilyn's life will be held at 11 am on Friday, June 14, 2019 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Rev. Rich Mitterling officiating. Visitation will be from 6 pm - 8 pm on Thursday, June 13, 2019 and 10 am - 11 am on Friday just prior to the service. Interment will take place at Riverside Cemetery in Bellevue. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions be made to Pawsibilities Rescue in Olivet. In memory of her love for pets, especially her cats that she did not want to leave behind. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte. Family and friends are encouraged to share remembrances and condolences online in Marilyn 's Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com.
Marilyn is survived by her children, Stacie (Mark) Gay and David LaBare; grandchildren, Samantha (Kyle) Heuer, Kendra and Kimber Gay, Julia and Lacey LaBare; great-grandchildren, Rasheed and Kenan Milligan; Stan's children, Debby (Ken) Burkett, Kathy Newton, Dave (Lori) Parr, along with all their children and grandchildren; and brother, Larry (Judy) Shultz. She is pre-deceased by her parents; husband, Stan; and brothers, Paul and Dennis.
A funeral service celebrating Marilyn's life will be held at 11 am on Friday, June 14, 2019 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Rev. Rich Mitterling officiating. Visitation will be from 6 pm - 8 pm on Thursday, June 13, 2019 and 10 am - 11 am on Friday just prior to the service. Interment will take place at Riverside Cemetery in Bellevue. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions be made to Pawsibilities Rescue in Olivet. In memory of her love for pets, especially her cats that she did not want to leave behind. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte. Family and friends are encouraged to share remembrances and condolences online in Marilyn 's Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com.
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Class of 1961
Thomas Clark Clay
July 22, 1943 -- April 27, 2020 (Aged 76)
In memory of Thomas Clark Clay, class of 1961,
who passed away at the age of 77.
Thomas Clark Clay a lifetime Grand Ledge resident passed away unexpectedly April 27, 2020. Tom was was one of ten children born to the late D. W. and Marguerite J. (Clark) Clay on July 22, 1943 in Lansing, Michigan. He graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1961 and went on to be a long time Parts Manager starting with Huhn Cheverolet and continuing with Sundance. Tom was a hard worker and was known by many people in Grand Ledge and near his cottage on Houghton Lake as "Mr. Fix-It". Many will miss his friendship and also the ability to pick up the phone or stop by and ask for help with a car or small engine repair, plumbing, electrical or almost any other job. Tom would almost always stop what he was doing to lend a hand and solve a problem for his family or a friend.
He is survived by his wife of over 55 years, Janet (Sedore); daughters, Kim (Scott) DeLashmit and Cindy (Les) May; siblings, Martha (Gordon) Woodman, Don (Rita) Clay, Doug Clay, Dan (Dana) Clay, Mary Deuel, Rob Clay, Theresa (Paul) Monaco, Laura Clay and Becky (Tom) Martin along with numerous nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.
A graveside service will be scheduled at Meadowbrook Cemetery in Mulliken at a later time. Memorial contributions in Tom's name may be given to Grand Ledge Area Emergency Services Authority (GLAESA), 500 N. Clinton Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837 or the Eaton County Sheriff Department, 1025 Independence Boulevard, Charlotte, Michigan 48813. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
He is survived by his wife of over 55 years, Janet (Sedore); daughters, Kim (Scott) DeLashmit and Cindy (Les) May; siblings, Martha (Gordon) Woodman, Don (Rita) Clay, Doug Clay, Dan (Dana) Clay, Mary Deuel, Rob Clay, Theresa (Paul) Monaco, Laura Clay and Becky (Tom) Martin along with numerous nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.
A graveside service will be scheduled at Meadowbrook Cemetery in Mulliken at a later time. Memorial contributions in Tom's name may be given to Grand Ledge Area Emergency Services Authority (GLAESA), 500 N. Clinton Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837 or the Eaton County Sheriff Department, 1025 Independence Boulevard, Charlotte, Michigan 48813. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
Class of 1961
Arthur William Kowalk
April 4, 1943 -- April 13, 2020 (Aged 77)
In memory of Arthur William Kowalk class of 1961,
who passed away at the age of 77.
Art passed away peacefully on April 13, 2020 at age 77 after battling many health issues. He was born in Eaton Rapids, Michigan on April 4, 1943 to Oliver Kowalk and Lillian (Lawrence) Kowalk. He attended Grand Ledge High School and served in the U.S. Army with tours in Vietnam from 1961-1963. He attended LCC on a G.I. bill and earned a computer science degree. Art worked for Auto-Owners Insurance Company for over 40 years, starting in the mailroom in 1964 and retiring as an Assistant Vice President in 2005. A-O was his second family! Arthur was preceded in death by his parents and his first wife and the mother of his children, Ann Marie (Stuckenberg) Kowalk; and his stepdaughter, Emily (Boortz) Green.
Art is survived by his loving wife, Barbara (Raymond) Kowalk, his daughter Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, his sons Richard and Robert Kowalk, his sister, Jacquelyn Kowalk, and stepsons Max and William (Wanda) Boortz. Also missing him will be grandchildren Sarah (Nate) Ashby; Jordan Suttles; Madeline (Ryan) and Quinn Green; Misha and Emilia Boortz; Kayla, Madison, and Liza Kowalk; great grandchildren Logan Younger and Dallas Ashby; and many wonderful friends including Al & Kathy Welter who often visited with Art during kidney dialysis treatments.
Art was an antique car enthusiast and member of the Capital City Old Car Club; he played fast-pitch and slow-pitch softball; he loved coaching youth football and women's softball teams; and worked hundreds of IHM & Lansing Catholic BINGOs back in the day! He enjoyed golfing with Steve, Julian, Frank and good friend Lois Scarane; he built a '57 Chevy with his buddy Art Cogswell; and traveled extensively with Barb after he retired.
Art was a proud veteran, who had a tough exterior but a heart of gold. Special thanks to the caring staff at Fresenius (dialysis), Sparrow Hospital, and Ingham County Medical Care Facility (Dobie Rd.). Art will be laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery, arrangements through Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel. A memorial service will be planned for a later date due to the current restrictions on large gatherings. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Art's name to the Boys & Girls Club of Lansing or the Old Newsboys Association.
Published in Lansing State Journal from Apr. 14 to Apr. 19, 2020
Art is survived by his loving wife, Barbara (Raymond) Kowalk, his daughter Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, his sons Richard and Robert Kowalk, his sister, Jacquelyn Kowalk, and stepsons Max and William (Wanda) Boortz. Also missing him will be grandchildren Sarah (Nate) Ashby; Jordan Suttles; Madeline (Ryan) and Quinn Green; Misha and Emilia Boortz; Kayla, Madison, and Liza Kowalk; great grandchildren Logan Younger and Dallas Ashby; and many wonderful friends including Al & Kathy Welter who often visited with Art during kidney dialysis treatments.
Art was an antique car enthusiast and member of the Capital City Old Car Club; he played fast-pitch and slow-pitch softball; he loved coaching youth football and women's softball teams; and worked hundreds of IHM & Lansing Catholic BINGOs back in the day! He enjoyed golfing with Steve, Julian, Frank and good friend Lois Scarane; he built a '57 Chevy with his buddy Art Cogswell; and traveled extensively with Barb after he retired.
Art was a proud veteran, who had a tough exterior but a heart of gold. Special thanks to the caring staff at Fresenius (dialysis), Sparrow Hospital, and Ingham County Medical Care Facility (Dobie Rd.). Art will be laid to rest at Evergreen Cemetery, arrangements through Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel. A memorial service will be planned for a later date due to the current restrictions on large gatherings. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Art's name to the Boys & Girls Club of Lansing or the Old Newsboys Association.
Published in Lansing State Journal from Apr. 14 to Apr. 19, 2020
Class of 1961
Nancy Kay Winstanley Hall
May 23, 1943 -- July 22, 2019
In memory of Nancy Kay "Winstanley" Hall class of 1961,
who passed away at the age of 76.
Nancy K. Hall of Eagle passed away July 22, 2019 after a courageous year long health battle with her family by her side each step of the way. Nancy was a loving wife, mother, grandma, sister and friend who will be missed by all the lives she touched. She was born May 23, 1943 in Lansing, Michigan to the late Homer and Rose (Bauer) Winstanley. Nancy graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1961 and went on to be a proud stay at home mom, raising her son and daughter. She looked forward to working in her flower gardens and preparing home cooked meals for her family and friends to enjoy.
She is survived by her beloved husband of 57 years, Dennis; children, Everett Hall and Katherine (Mark) Waumans; grandchildren, Lindsey, Cooper and Wyland Hall, Emerson, Braeden and Madelyn Waumans; siblings, Jim (Beverly), David, Bill (Joan), Dan (Iris) Winstanley and Ela (John) Heal, along with numerous nieces and nephews and sister-in-law, Nancy Winstanley, widow of Jerry Winstanley, Nancy Hall’s brother who preceded her in death.
A gathering to celebrate Nancy’s life will be held Sunday, August 11, 2019 from 1-4 P.M. at the Grand Ledge Opera House. Memorial contributions may be given to U of M Rogel Cancer Center, 1000 Oakbrook, Suite 100, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104 (https://www.rogelcancercenter.org/giving/). Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
She is survived by her beloved husband of 57 years, Dennis; children, Everett Hall and Katherine (Mark) Waumans; grandchildren, Lindsey, Cooper and Wyland Hall, Emerson, Braeden and Madelyn Waumans; siblings, Jim (Beverly), David, Bill (Joan), Dan (Iris) Winstanley and Ela (John) Heal, along with numerous nieces and nephews and sister-in-law, Nancy Winstanley, widow of Jerry Winstanley, Nancy Hall’s brother who preceded her in death.
A gathering to celebrate Nancy’s life will be held Sunday, August 11, 2019 from 1-4 P.M. at the Grand Ledge Opera House. Memorial contributions may be given to U of M Rogel Cancer Center, 1000 Oakbrook, Suite 100, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104 (https://www.rogelcancercenter.org/giving/). Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
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Class of 1962
David Lee Benson
DATE OF PASSING: January 11, 2020
In memory of David Benson class of 1962.
David Lee Benson passed into eternal rest on January 11, 2020 in Apoka, Florida. Dave was born on October 14, 1943 in Grand Ledge,Michigan. He was a 1962 graduate of Grand Ledge High School. After graduation he studied Political Science at Michigan State University. He was a Vietnam Veteran and a former Detention Officer at the cIty of Lansing Police Department. He is survived by his wife Judie Huhn Benson.
A memorial will be held at a later date.
( NO OTHER INFORMATION WAS AVAILABLE AT THE TIME OF HIS PASSING.)
Class of 1962
Janet May "Feldpausch" Folkens
September 8, 1943 -- July 28, 2019
In memory of Janet May "Feldpausch" Folkens , class of 1962,
who passed away at the age of 74.
Janet M. Folkens of DeWitt passed away July 28, 2019. Janet was born September 8, 1943 in Lansing, Michigan to the late John J. and Lucille M. (Lang) Feldpausch. She graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1962 and went on to attend Lansing Community College. Janet retired as a Manager for the Michigan Secretary of State. She was the matriarch of the family and was the “glue” that kept everyone together. Janet enjoyed spending time with her family and was a proud mother and grandmother. She looked forward to spending time outdoors in the sun, shopping, traveling, watching westerns, enjoying the company of her cats and eating at restaurants with friends and family.
She is survived by her loving husband of over forty-one years, Dave; children, Tracee Slack, Melanie (Nathan) Lounds and Jason (Lacie) Folkens; grandchildren, Russell and Coty Slack, Quintin, Grace and Eliana Lounds and Clara Jaye Bloom Folkens. Janet was preceded in death by siblings, George Feldpausch, Evelyn Burleson, Anna Proctor, Pauline Lycos, Pearl Longanbach and Dorothy Esckilsen.
A Funeral service will be held Friday, August 2, 2019, 11:00 a.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge with Pastor Matt Olson, officiating. Interment will follow at Wacousta Cemetery, Watertown Twp., Clinton Co., MI. Visitation will be Thursday at the funeral home from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. and Friday 1 hour prior to the service.
She is survived by her loving husband of over forty-one years, Dave; children, Tracee Slack, Melanie (Nathan) Lounds and Jason (Lacie) Folkens; grandchildren, Russell and Coty Slack, Quintin, Grace and Eliana Lounds and Clara Jaye Bloom Folkens. Janet was preceded in death by siblings, George Feldpausch, Evelyn Burleson, Anna Proctor, Pauline Lycos, Pearl Longanbach and Dorothy Esckilsen.
A Funeral service will be held Friday, August 2, 2019, 11:00 a.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge with Pastor Matt Olson, officiating. Interment will follow at Wacousta Cemetery, Watertown Twp., Clinton Co., MI. Visitation will be Thursday at the funeral home from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. and Friday 1 hour prior to the service.
Class of 1962
Barbara J. Kruger Horton
March 3, 1944 - September 21, 2019
In memory of Barbara J. Kruger Horton , class of 1962,
who passed away at the age of 75.
Barbara Joan Horton, 75, passed away peacefully at home on September 21, 2019. She was born March 3, 1944 in St. Johns, MI, daughter of Kenneth and Elaine (Kebler) Kruger. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents and sister Sharon Vaudry. She was survived by her husband of 54 years, Brian, daughter Kimberly Ann Horton of Morristown, NJ and sons, Bradley Horton of Portage, MI and Kevin Horton of St. Johns. Barbara graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1962 and worked for the Michigan Department of Social Services for 40 years and retired in March of 2006. She was an avid gardener and maintained many beautiful flower arrangements at their home in St. Johns, MI.
A funeral service will be held Thursday, September 26, 2019 – 11:00 a.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, with interment to follow at North Eagle Cemetery, Eagle Twp., Clinton Co. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to the Capital Area Humane Society. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
A funeral service will be held Thursday, September 26, 2019 – 11:00 a.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge, with interment to follow at North Eagle Cemetery, Eagle Twp., Clinton Co. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to the Capital Area Humane Society. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
Class of 1962
Patricia Ann Shockley Kelley
March 11, 1944 -- September 17, 2019
In memory of Patricia Ann Shockley Kelley , class of 1962,
who passed away at the age of 75.
Age 75 of Grand Ledge, passed away Tuesday, September 17, 2019, at her home. Patricia was born March 11, 1944 in Washington, D.C., a daughter of Walter and Lillian (Furlough) Shockley. She was a 1962 graduate of Grand Ledge High School and retired from General Motors. In retirement she pursued her love of plants and birds. Surviving is a former dear husband, Norman Kelley; son, Will (Kelli) Kelley of Ft. Storey, VA; daughter, Colleen Kelley of Lansing; grandchildren, Samatha (Taylor) Broderick, Bailey Cox, Tabitha and Hannah Storrs; great-grandchildren, Isla, Marlowe and Alba Broderick; Keith, Lillie and Karia Storrs; father, Walter Shockley of Lansing; brothers, Michael (Sherri) Shockley (her twin) of Potterville and Richard (Karen) Shockley of Lansing; nieces and nephews.
Services 1:30 P.M. Friday, September 20, 2019, at Deepdale Memorial Park Mausoleum (Lansing). The family will receive friends for 30 minutes prior to services. Arrangements by Field & Leik Funeral Home, Dimondale
Services 1:30 P.M. Friday, September 20, 2019, at Deepdale Memorial Park Mausoleum (Lansing). The family will receive friends for 30 minutes prior to services. Arrangements by Field & Leik Funeral Home, Dimondale
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Class of 1963
Carole "Finstrom" Vanetten
April 29, 1945 -- May 31, 2019
In memory of Carole "Finstrom" Vanetten, class of 1963,
who passed away at the age of 74.
Carole Ann Vanetten of Grand Ledge passed away May 31, 2019 surrounded by her loving family. Carole was a devoted mom, grandmother, sister and friend that will be missed by the many lives she touched. She was born April 29, 1945 in Riverside, California to the late Hartley C. and Delphine L. (Englehardt) Finstrom. She was a Grand Ledge High School graduate Class of 1963 and retired as an Administrative Assistant for the Michigan Catholic Conference. Carole was creative and enjoyed crafts and crocheting. She also enjoyed taking casino trips, bowling, golfing and babysitting her grandkids as they were growing up.
She is survived by daughters, Tammy (Darren) Musolff and Sabrina (Riadh) Belaid; grandchildren, Michael, Ranold, Donovan, Caden, Amir, Fares, Yassine and Rayen; sister, Hilda Finstrom along with niece Mikjell Shaw and nephew, Scott Houseman. She was preceded in death by sister, Linda Houseman and brother, Hartley Finstrom.
A funeral service will be held Thursday, June 6, 2019, 12:00 p.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge with Pastor Lori O’Dea of Grand Ledge New Life Assembly of God, officiating. Visitation will be Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 12:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. Memorial contributions may be given to Sisters of Mercy, West Midwest, 7262 Mercy Road, Omaha, Nebraska 68124 ( https://www.sistersofmercy.org/west-midwest/donate/) or the Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 W. Grand River Avenue, Lansing, Michigan 48906www.palmerbush.com.
She is survived by daughters, Tammy (Darren) Musolff and Sabrina (Riadh) Belaid; grandchildren, Michael, Ranold, Donovan, Caden, Amir, Fares, Yassine and Rayen; sister, Hilda Finstrom along with niece Mikjell Shaw and nephew, Scott Houseman. She was preceded in death by sister, Linda Houseman and brother, Hartley Finstrom.
A funeral service will be held Thursday, June 6, 2019, 12:00 p.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge with Pastor Lori O’Dea of Grand Ledge New Life Assembly of God, officiating. Visitation will be Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 12:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. Memorial contributions may be given to Sisters of Mercy, West Midwest, 7262 Mercy Road, Omaha, Nebraska 68124 ( https://www.sistersofmercy.org/west-midwest/donate/) or the Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 W. Grand River Avenue, Lansing, Michigan 48906www.palmerbush.com.
Class of 1963
Katherine Marie "Slee" Gill
July 4, 1944 -- May 26, 2019
In memory of Katherine Marie "Slee" Gill, class of 1963,
who passed away at the age of 74.
Katherine Marie Gill, Kathy, age 74, of Cedarville, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly on May 26th, 2019 while attending a family member’s wedding in Virginia. She was born into a loving family on July 4th, 1944 to Albert Enoch and Marie Helen (Sibley) Slee in Grand Ledge, Michigan. Kathy was the youngest of three children.
Kathy grew up in Grand Ledge and graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1963. Following her grandmother’s footsteps and her love for style, she attended Murphy School of Cosmetology in Lansing, graduating in 1963. Her professional career started in Carmen Neair’s beauty salon in Lower Michigan. A skiing trip to Cedarville changed her path; she met the love of her life, James R. Gill.
Kathy and Jim married August 21st, 1971 at Grand Ledge Methodist Church. They built a life together in Cedarville, MI and had two beautiful children, Rick and Tammy. Professionally she continued her career at Country Curl beauty salon, where she then took ownership, placing her style in the business. Her personal life was also very rich, juggling motherhood with her love for wood carving, painting, knitting, gardening, boating and air-sledding.
In the year 2000, Kathy and Jim made the decision to retire. This gave them the opportunity to have all the time in the world to enjoy many fun and exciting activities they loved. Air-sledding was a regular in the winter, gliding on ice through the Les Cheneaux Islands as far reaching as Ontario, Canada. She belonged to the Les Cheneaux Air Sled Club.
In the summer, boating was their other passion. Boat trips were a routine. They cruised up and down the lakes, from Lake Michigan to Lake Huron and in between. They also enjoyed the Caribbean. First traveling there with friends, exploring many islands. Later visiting Puerto Rico, where they found a second home base, together with their son Rick and his wife, and their two children. In Puerto Rico, Kathy and Jim spent their winters, enjoying the hot sun, the warm sea and beachcombing for sea-glass and shells.
Kathy was a fun person, enjoyed dressing-up for Pirate Day, but also loved the quiet walks and spending time with her friends at Lady’s Lunch. She also belonged to VFW Women’s Auxiliary.
Kathy is survived by her husband, James Gill; son, Rick (Valeria Ciccone) Gill of Naguabo, Puerto Rico; daughter, Tammy (Hobie) Kirsch of Topinabee, Michigan; granddaughters, Joelyanis and Joelys; sister Sue (Stanley) Kimmel of Bellaire, Michigan.
Kathy is preceded in death by her parents Marie and Albert Slee; and brother, Jerry Slee.
A Memorial Gathering will be held on Friday, June 7th, 2019 from 10:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M at R. Galer Funeral Home in Pickford, Michigan. Memorial Service will follow at 11:30 A.M.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Chippewa Animal Shelter or Mackinac Animal Shelter
Kathy grew up in Grand Ledge and graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1963. Following her grandmother’s footsteps and her love for style, she attended Murphy School of Cosmetology in Lansing, graduating in 1963. Her professional career started in Carmen Neair’s beauty salon in Lower Michigan. A skiing trip to Cedarville changed her path; she met the love of her life, James R. Gill.
Kathy and Jim married August 21st, 1971 at Grand Ledge Methodist Church. They built a life together in Cedarville, MI and had two beautiful children, Rick and Tammy. Professionally she continued her career at Country Curl beauty salon, where she then took ownership, placing her style in the business. Her personal life was also very rich, juggling motherhood with her love for wood carving, painting, knitting, gardening, boating and air-sledding.
In the year 2000, Kathy and Jim made the decision to retire. This gave them the opportunity to have all the time in the world to enjoy many fun and exciting activities they loved. Air-sledding was a regular in the winter, gliding on ice through the Les Cheneaux Islands as far reaching as Ontario, Canada. She belonged to the Les Cheneaux Air Sled Club.
In the summer, boating was their other passion. Boat trips were a routine. They cruised up and down the lakes, from Lake Michigan to Lake Huron and in between. They also enjoyed the Caribbean. First traveling there with friends, exploring many islands. Later visiting Puerto Rico, where they found a second home base, together with their son Rick and his wife, and their two children. In Puerto Rico, Kathy and Jim spent their winters, enjoying the hot sun, the warm sea and beachcombing for sea-glass and shells.
Kathy was a fun person, enjoyed dressing-up for Pirate Day, but also loved the quiet walks and spending time with her friends at Lady’s Lunch. She also belonged to VFW Women’s Auxiliary.
Kathy is survived by her husband, James Gill; son, Rick (Valeria Ciccone) Gill of Naguabo, Puerto Rico; daughter, Tammy (Hobie) Kirsch of Topinabee, Michigan; granddaughters, Joelyanis and Joelys; sister Sue (Stanley) Kimmel of Bellaire, Michigan.
Kathy is preceded in death by her parents Marie and Albert Slee; and brother, Jerry Slee.
A Memorial Gathering will be held on Friday, June 7th, 2019 from 10:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M at R. Galer Funeral Home in Pickford, Michigan. Memorial Service will follow at 11:30 A.M.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Chippewa Animal Shelter or Mackinac Animal Shelter
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Class of 1964
Robert Malcolm Austin
April 2, 1946 -- June 13, 2019
In memory of Robert Malcom Austin, class of 1964,
who passed away at the age of 73.
Robert Malcolm Austin 73 of Grand Ledge, Michigan; a loving husband, father, brother and friend went to be with the Lord on June 13, 2019. Robb was born April 2, 1946 in Lansing, Michigan to the late Robert and Frances (Huyser) Austin. He graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1964. Robb was self-employed through Acme Sliding Door and then Countryside in Dewitt. Robb enjoyed playing cards and games with family and friends! He enjoyed traveling across the world over the years, highlights being the Holy Land and trips out West with his family. He loved to spend time with people and could sit and talk for hours.
Robb was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley, his parents and niece, Becky Welch. He is survived by his son, Chris Austin and daughter, Kacy (Dan) Goeckel; grandchildren, SGT. Robert Austin USMC, MacKenzie Austin, Darragh and Regan Goeckel; sister, Janis Boling and Cindy Cheger; brother, Rick (Karen) Blevins along with nephews, John Nyboer and Robert Boling. A Celebration of Robb’s life will be held Friday, June 28, 2019, 12:00 p.m. at the Portland United Methodist Church, 310 E. Bridge Street, Portland, MI 48875 with The Reverend Tish Bowman, officiating. Visitation will be at the church on Friday from 10:30 until the time of the service at 12:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be given to No More Sidelines of Central Michigan, 4334 N. Wacousta Road, Fowler, Michigan 48835 (http://www.nmscentralmi.com/index.php).
Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge
Robb was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley, his parents and niece, Becky Welch. He is survived by his son, Chris Austin and daughter, Kacy (Dan) Goeckel; grandchildren, SGT. Robert Austin USMC, MacKenzie Austin, Darragh and Regan Goeckel; sister, Janis Boling and Cindy Cheger; brother, Rick (Karen) Blevins along with nephews, John Nyboer and Robert Boling. A Celebration of Robb’s life will be held Friday, June 28, 2019, 12:00 p.m. at the Portland United Methodist Church, 310 E. Bridge Street, Portland, MI 48875 with The Reverend Tish Bowman, officiating. Visitation will be at the church on Friday from 10:30 until the time of the service at 12:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be given to No More Sidelines of Central Michigan, 4334 N. Wacousta Road, Fowler, Michigan 48835 (http://www.nmscentralmi.com/index.php).
Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge
Class of 1964
Robert Douglas Barker
May 24, 1946 -- March 4, 2020
In memory of Robert Douglas Barker, class of 1964,
who passed away at the age of 73.
Robert “Bob” Douglas Barker, age 73, of Middleville, MI, passed away on March 4, 2020 in Rifle, Colorado. Bob had battled for years with Diabetes, Congestive Heart Failure, and Kidney Disease.
Bob was born May 24, 1946 and lived most of his life in Grand Ledge, Michigan. He was the son of George Archibald Barker and Maxine Gates Barker. Bob attended Grand Ledge Schools where he played basketball, football, and tennis. He then went on to Central Michigan University where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in teaching and longed to go back to his hometown to teach and coach. He got his wish and was hired in 1969 at Sawdon Middle School to teach and coach. Bob also taught Math and Phys Ed at Beagle Middle School and Grand Ledge High School.
He met his wife, Darlene, while volunteering at a Chrisitan Bible Camp in Shephard, MI. They were married June 9, 1973. Bob earned his Master's Degree from Michigan State University in 1978. They had three wonderful children Rebekbah, Robby, and Randy. Bob was a long-time member of the Grand Ledge Baptist Church and taught Sunday School to young people for many years. Bob continued his teaching career for 34 years and loved being able to teach and coach in the community where he grew up. Bob touched so many young lives with his countless, selfless hours especially with his coaching of basketball and tennis teams. He always strived to be a positive influence in their lives. His greatest joy was to be able to coach his three children in their different sports.
After he retired in 2003, Bob continued to coach with his lifetime friend Robert Byinston for the next few years. Bob and Darlene moved to their cottage at Gun Lake after retirement and wintered in Florida for several years. The last two winters they have lived with their daughter, Rebekah, and her family in the beautiful Colorado mountains.
Bob is survived by his wife, Darlene, of nearly 47 years; daughter Rebekah (Paul) Downing of Rifle, CO; sons Robby Barker and Randy(Srar) Barker of Midland, MI; four grandsons, Luke Downing, Preston Barker, Jason Downing, and Jesse Downing; brother George G. Barker; mother-in-law Polly Becker; sister-in-law Tammy (Keith) Bobenmoyer; nieces Krsitina Barker, Karyn (Josh) Newton, Casey (Neal) Hyde; nephews Jeff Barker and Ryan (Danielle) Mahaffy; and many cousins on the Barker and Gates side. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister-in-law Katherine Barker, and many precious aunts, uncles and cousins.
Visitation will be held from 2-4pm and 5-8pm on Wednesday, March 11th at Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home in Grand Ledge, MI and from 12pm until the time of the Funeral service at 1:00pm on Thursday, March 12th at Grand Ledge Baptist Church in Grand Ledge, MI. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge, Michigan.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be set up in his honor for his four grandsons that he loved so dearly for their school and sports endeavors (Please make checks payble to Darlene Barker).
Bob was born May 24, 1946 and lived most of his life in Grand Ledge, Michigan. He was the son of George Archibald Barker and Maxine Gates Barker. Bob attended Grand Ledge Schools where he played basketball, football, and tennis. He then went on to Central Michigan University where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in teaching and longed to go back to his hometown to teach and coach. He got his wish and was hired in 1969 at Sawdon Middle School to teach and coach. Bob also taught Math and Phys Ed at Beagle Middle School and Grand Ledge High School.
He met his wife, Darlene, while volunteering at a Chrisitan Bible Camp in Shephard, MI. They were married June 9, 1973. Bob earned his Master's Degree from Michigan State University in 1978. They had three wonderful children Rebekbah, Robby, and Randy. Bob was a long-time member of the Grand Ledge Baptist Church and taught Sunday School to young people for many years. Bob continued his teaching career for 34 years and loved being able to teach and coach in the community where he grew up. Bob touched so many young lives with his countless, selfless hours especially with his coaching of basketball and tennis teams. He always strived to be a positive influence in their lives. His greatest joy was to be able to coach his three children in their different sports.
After he retired in 2003, Bob continued to coach with his lifetime friend Robert Byinston for the next few years. Bob and Darlene moved to their cottage at Gun Lake after retirement and wintered in Florida for several years. The last two winters they have lived with their daughter, Rebekah, and her family in the beautiful Colorado mountains.
Bob is survived by his wife, Darlene, of nearly 47 years; daughter Rebekah (Paul) Downing of Rifle, CO; sons Robby Barker and Randy(Srar) Barker of Midland, MI; four grandsons, Luke Downing, Preston Barker, Jason Downing, and Jesse Downing; brother George G. Barker; mother-in-law Polly Becker; sister-in-law Tammy (Keith) Bobenmoyer; nieces Krsitina Barker, Karyn (Josh) Newton, Casey (Neal) Hyde; nephews Jeff Barker and Ryan (Danielle) Mahaffy; and many cousins on the Barker and Gates side. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister-in-law Katherine Barker, and many precious aunts, uncles and cousins.
Visitation will be held from 2-4pm and 5-8pm on Wednesday, March 11th at Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home in Grand Ledge, MI and from 12pm until the time of the Funeral service at 1:00pm on Thursday, March 12th at Grand Ledge Baptist Church in Grand Ledge, MI. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge, Michigan.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be set up in his honor for his four grandsons that he loved so dearly for their school and sports endeavors (Please make checks payble to Darlene Barker).
Class of 1964
Catherine Marie "Cody" McFee
February 18, 1946 -- August 2, 2019
In memory of Catherine Marie Cody McFee, class of 1964,
who passed away at the age of 73.
Catherine Marie McFee has gone home to be with her Lord and her husband Michael. Catherine was born February 18, 1946 and adopted by Thomas P. and Edith M. (Blassier) Cody. Cathy passed with family by her side August 2, 2019 at Sparrow hospital in Lansing.
Cathy graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1964 and went on to receive a degree in Business. Catherine retired from the State of Michigan where she worked in the Treasury department for 30 years. She will be remembered as a BeFriender at St. Gerard Parish and her role as Grandmother dancing on stage at the Wharton Center’s performance of The Nutcracker. Her thoughtfulness, love of animals especially her dog Chloe, and her kind heartedness will forever be remembered.
Catherine lived in Mason with her daughter Michelle(Josh) Johnson and 5 year old grandson James Michael. She also has a son Michael Sean that she loves greatly. A private family ceremony will be held at Lake Michigan at a later date. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
Cathy graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1964 and went on to receive a degree in Business. Catherine retired from the State of Michigan where she worked in the Treasury department for 30 years. She will be remembered as a BeFriender at St. Gerard Parish and her role as Grandmother dancing on stage at the Wharton Center’s performance of The Nutcracker. Her thoughtfulness, love of animals especially her dog Chloe, and her kind heartedness will forever be remembered.
Catherine lived in Mason with her daughter Michelle(Josh) Johnson and 5 year old grandson James Michael. She also has a son Michael Sean that she loves greatly. A private family ceremony will be held at Lake Michigan at a later date. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
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Class of 1965
Jerry Leon Gillett
May 16, 1947 -- June 22, 2019
In memory of Jerry Leon Gillett, class of 1965,
who passed away at the age of 72.
Jerry L. Gillett, 72, lifelong area resident of Grand Ledge, MI, passed away on June 22, 2019 in Lansing, MI. Jerry was born May 16, 1947, son of Leon and Mildred (Haueter) Gillett. He was a retired school teacher for the Holt Public Schools, where he taught social studies and was the boys cross country and track and field coach for over 30 years, and was a former Adjunct Professor at Michigan State University. Jerry’s greatest joy was spending time with his family.
Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Joyce, son Aaron (Rebecca) Gillett, daughter Judy Newman-Bale; 4 grandchildren: Emma, Sophie, Casandra, and Evelynn, and was preceded in death by his parents and sister Judith Ann.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, June 26, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 411 Harrison St., Grand Ledge. Visitations will be Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice House of Mid-Michigan. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.
Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Joyce, son Aaron (Rebecca) Gillett, daughter Judy Newman-Bale; 4 grandchildren: Emma, Sophie, Casandra, and Evelynn, and was preceded in death by his parents and sister Judith Ann.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, June 26, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 411 Harrison St., Grand Ledge. Visitations will be Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice House of Mid-Michigan. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.
Class of 1965
Richard “Rick” R. Jensen
July 29, 1947 -- October 31, 2019
In memory of Richard "Rick" Jensen, class of 1965,
who passed away at the age of 72.
Richard “Rick” R. Jensen, 72, of Janesville, WI, passed away on Thursday, October 31, 2019. Born July 29, 1947 in Rockford although raised in Grand Ledge, MI, the son of Ralph W. and Wauneta (Carlson) Jensen. Rick graduated from Guilford High School in 1965. He also was a member of Broadway Covenant Church for many years. Rick married Shirlee Holmberg in Rockford on April 23, 2005. He worked in sales at House of Lindberg, Lindman’s Carpet Manor, Rockford, IL and Carpet One in Janesville, WI. Rick was a member of the Muscular Dystrophy Association. He enjoyed watching the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears. Rick was an avid fisherman. He made sure to go fishing every year for his birthday. Rick and Shirlee enjoyed many travels after retirement as well as driving the school bus in Milton, WI.
Survived by his wife, Shirlee; children, James (Shelby) Jensen, Emily (Steven) Wiezorek, Laura Jensen and stepchildren, Nick (Gina) Holmberg, Heather Czosnek, & Alex Holmberg; fourteen grandchildren; siblings, Mimi Rodriguez, Dan (Barb) Jensen, and Bruce Jensen; and mother of his children, Kathy Dearth and many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents; son, Randy (1986); niece, Kirsten Jensen (2013); brother in law, Joe Rodriguez (2012) and infant granddaughter, Gabrielle (1997).
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, November 7, 2019 at Central Christian Church, 2460 Milwaukee Rd., Beloit, WI, 53511. Visitation will be from 10:00 am to 11:00 am prior to the service. Burial in Sunset Memorial Garden, Machesney Park, IL. Memorials may be made to The Muscular Dystrophy Association. To share a memory or condolence, visit olsonfh.com.
Survived by his wife, Shirlee; children, James (Shelby) Jensen, Emily (Steven) Wiezorek, Laura Jensen and stepchildren, Nick (Gina) Holmberg, Heather Czosnek, & Alex Holmberg; fourteen grandchildren; siblings, Mimi Rodriguez, Dan (Barb) Jensen, and Bruce Jensen; and mother of his children, Kathy Dearth and many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents; son, Randy (1986); niece, Kirsten Jensen (2013); brother in law, Joe Rodriguez (2012) and infant granddaughter, Gabrielle (1997).
Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, November 7, 2019 at Central Christian Church, 2460 Milwaukee Rd., Beloit, WI, 53511. Visitation will be from 10:00 am to 11:00 am prior to the service. Burial in Sunset Memorial Garden, Machesney Park, IL. Memorials may be made to The Muscular Dystrophy Association. To share a memory or condolence, visit olsonfh.com.
Class of 1965
Douglas E. Shaw
February 27, 1947 -- April 15, 2020 (Aged 73)
In memory of Douglas E. Shaw, class of 1965,
who passed away at the age of 73.
Douglas E. Shaw, Eaton Rapids -- After a courageous battle with lung cancer and with his family by his side, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, April 15, 2020 at the age of 73. Born February 27, 1947 to Herbert and Arlene (Smith) Shaw in Owosso, Michigan. Doug honorably served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He went on to work in downtown Lansing for a bank before going to work as a machinist for both Olofsson’s and later for the Lear Corporation. Doug was a member of the First Congregational Church of Eaton Rapids for many years. Doug was an avid sports fan. He was always loyal to Eaton Rapids, the Michigan State Spartans and all of the Detroit teams. In his younger years he played football, basketball and tennis and later coached boys youth soccer and basketball. He enjoyed golf and played most of his life. As a grandfather he loved spending time with his grandchildren and watching them grow. Doug was a loving husband, father, grandfather, son and brother who will be dearly missed by all. Preceding him in death were his sister, Sandra Byrd; father, Herbert Shaw and two infant children.
Surviving are his wife, Susan Shaw; daughter, Jessica Shaw; son, Ryan (Melissa) Shaw; grandchildren; Ethan Morales, Sophia Morales, Micah Gaston, Greyson Gaston, Isabella Gaston, Grace Shaw, Thomas Shaw and one more on the way; mother, Arlene Shaw; brother, Richard “Dick” (Barb) Shaw; sister, Diane (Neal) Gee; brother-in-law, Mike Byrd as well as many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Doug’s life will be held at a later date. To share memories and condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com
Surviving are his wife, Susan Shaw; daughter, Jessica Shaw; son, Ryan (Melissa) Shaw; grandchildren; Ethan Morales, Sophia Morales, Micah Gaston, Greyson Gaston, Isabella Gaston, Grace Shaw, Thomas Shaw and one more on the way; mother, Arlene Shaw; brother, Richard “Dick” (Barb) Shaw; sister, Diane (Neal) Gee; brother-in-law, Mike Byrd as well as many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Doug’s life will be held at a later date. To share memories and condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com
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Class of 1966
Terry Martin Bopp
June 28, 1948 –- December 14, 2019
In memory of Terry Martin Bopp, class of 1966,
who passed away at the age of 71.
Terry Martin Bopp, 71, passed away unexpectedly and peacefully on Saturday, December 14, 2019 in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Born June 28, 1948 to Robert Martin and Mildred Rae (Hamp) Bopp, He was preceded in death by his parents, oldest brother Robert L Bopp and his wife, Monica Bopp.
Terry worked for and retired from the State of Michigan Department of Transportation, designing, planning, and inspecting the roads and bridges of Michigan. He took particular pride in keeping contractors honest, and the projects he worked showed it. Terry was a lifetime hunter and fisherman with a love of black labs and beagles. Hunting with his son-in-law and grandsons in his later years made him happier than they probably ever will know. Terry was first married to Deloris (Farley), the mother of his two daughters. Their marriage was not meant to be, yet in later in life they re-found friendship. Terry met the love of his life, Monica, a soft-spoken and strong woman who knew exactly how to deal with Terry. He loved it and doted on her. Together they spent their retirement visiting his parents in Florida while they lived, gardening, golfing, and square dancing. They were active in their church and in the families of their children. Monica left to be with the Lord less than a year ago; in her absence life in a big empty house in the country was not for Terry. He moved in with his eldest daughter for a time in the transition. He particularly liked Christina's chickens and hobby farm life along with late nights with his grandson Christopher watching western movies. She and Rick and the boys are grateful to have had that time with him.
Those who knew Terry as a young man knew a man that lived hard, hunted hard, and could be hard, but was also quick to laugh and always ready with a joke or something witty. He loved to eat raw lemons. He took trips to the boundary waters with his brother in law to fish and never missed a deer camp. Winter Saturdays were always filled with the baying of beagles. He could make a pickup truck last half a million miles. Time and Monica softened him up over the years, and these last few decades Terry was known as a family man who liked people, loved to spend time with his family, brightened a conversation with his stories, charm, and wit, and truly loved Monica.
He will be lovingly remembered by his daughters, Rebecca (Jan) Sabin and Christina (Rick) Barnes; his stepson, Kevin (Kim) Schultz; his grandchildren, Micheal and Christopher Barnes, Elliot and Kennedy Sabin, Ashley (David) Hughes, and Jessica (Chris Kunkel) Zeitz; his great-granddaughter, Abigail Hughes; and his brother, Dale (Gary Kerr) Bopp.
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, December 21, 2019 at 10 am at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes East Chapel, 1730 E. Grand River Ave., in East Lansing. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, and on Friday, December 20, 2019 from 4 pm until 7 pm at the funeral home.
Interment will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery in Mason along with a lunch at Eden United Brethren Church in which the family welcomes everyone to please join them at.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Eden United Brethren Church, 1938 Eden Rd, Mason, MI 48854.
Born June 28, 1948 to Robert Martin and Mildred Rae (Hamp) Bopp, He was preceded in death by his parents, oldest brother Robert L Bopp and his wife, Monica Bopp.
Terry worked for and retired from the State of Michigan Department of Transportation, designing, planning, and inspecting the roads and bridges of Michigan. He took particular pride in keeping contractors honest, and the projects he worked showed it. Terry was a lifetime hunter and fisherman with a love of black labs and beagles. Hunting with his son-in-law and grandsons in his later years made him happier than they probably ever will know. Terry was first married to Deloris (Farley), the mother of his two daughters. Their marriage was not meant to be, yet in later in life they re-found friendship. Terry met the love of his life, Monica, a soft-spoken and strong woman who knew exactly how to deal with Terry. He loved it and doted on her. Together they spent their retirement visiting his parents in Florida while they lived, gardening, golfing, and square dancing. They were active in their church and in the families of their children. Monica left to be with the Lord less than a year ago; in her absence life in a big empty house in the country was not for Terry. He moved in with his eldest daughter for a time in the transition. He particularly liked Christina's chickens and hobby farm life along with late nights with his grandson Christopher watching western movies. She and Rick and the boys are grateful to have had that time with him.
Those who knew Terry as a young man knew a man that lived hard, hunted hard, and could be hard, but was also quick to laugh and always ready with a joke or something witty. He loved to eat raw lemons. He took trips to the boundary waters with his brother in law to fish and never missed a deer camp. Winter Saturdays were always filled with the baying of beagles. He could make a pickup truck last half a million miles. Time and Monica softened him up over the years, and these last few decades Terry was known as a family man who liked people, loved to spend time with his family, brightened a conversation with his stories, charm, and wit, and truly loved Monica.
He will be lovingly remembered by his daughters, Rebecca (Jan) Sabin and Christina (Rick) Barnes; his stepson, Kevin (Kim) Schultz; his grandchildren, Micheal and Christopher Barnes, Elliot and Kennedy Sabin, Ashley (David) Hughes, and Jessica (Chris Kunkel) Zeitz; his great-granddaughter, Abigail Hughes; and his brother, Dale (Gary Kerr) Bopp.
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, December 21, 2019 at 10 am at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes East Chapel, 1730 E. Grand River Ave., in East Lansing. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, and on Friday, December 20, 2019 from 4 pm until 7 pm at the funeral home.
Interment will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery in Mason along with a lunch at Eden United Brethren Church in which the family welcomes everyone to please join them at.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Eden United Brethren Church, 1938 Eden Rd, Mason, MI 48854.
Class of 1966
Joel Corbin
May 2019
(NO OTHER INFORMATION WAS AVAILABLE AT THE TIME OF HIS PASSING.)
Class of 1966
Mirriam L. Dixon Storey
December 30, 1947 - August 21, 2019
In memory of Mirriam L. "Dixon" Storey, class of 1966,
who passed away at the age of 71.
Mirriam Lee Storey (Dixon) of Grand Ledge, MI, passed away August 21, 2019 at the age of 71. She was born on December 30, 1947 in Lansing, MI, daughter to Arnold and Wilma (Hoose) Dixon. Mirriam was a teacher’s aide for 30 years at Delta Center Elementary. She is beloved by many Grand Ledge Graduates. She was an avid bowler; enjoyed softball, fast cars, boats, listening to the Beach Boys and above all spending time with her family.Mirriam enjoyed many wonderful years at their cottage on Morrison Lake, fishing, racing around the lake and pulling tubers behind the speed boat.
Mirriam was a person of grace and patience, whom will be greatly missed. She is survived by her husband of 62 52 years, Darl, children: Daniele Storey, Lisa Storey, Sherry Storey, Scott (Tracy) Storey; Desirae (Eric) Smidt, 9 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, sister Lorraine (Clare) Courtier, and was predeceased by her daughter Nicole Storey, parents, Arnold and Wilma Dixon, sister Dawn Grove and brother Ed Dixon.
A Celebration of Life will be held September 7th 2019 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Log Cabin Inn Banquet Center, 6484 E. Bluewater Hwy., Muir, MI 48860.
As most of you know Mike was an avid U of M fan; so in her honor, feel free to wear your U of M gear. Please bring your favorite pictures and memories to share. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Kidney Foundation or Ele’s Place in memory of Mirriam Storey. The family has entrusted arrangements to Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Visit www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com to post memories for the family and for further information.
Mirriam was a person of grace and patience, whom will be greatly missed. She is survived by her husband of 62 52 years, Darl, children: Daniele Storey, Lisa Storey, Sherry Storey, Scott (Tracy) Storey; Desirae (Eric) Smidt, 9 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, sister Lorraine (Clare) Courtier, and was predeceased by her daughter Nicole Storey, parents, Arnold and Wilma Dixon, sister Dawn Grove and brother Ed Dixon.
A Celebration of Life will be held September 7th 2019 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Log Cabin Inn Banquet Center, 6484 E. Bluewater Hwy., Muir, MI 48860.
As most of you know Mike was an avid U of M fan; so in her honor, feel free to wear your U of M gear. Please bring your favorite pictures and memories to share. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Kidney Foundation or Ele’s Place in memory of Mirriam Storey. The family has entrusted arrangements to Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Visit www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com to post memories for the family and for further information.
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Class of 1967
Judith Kaye Jacobs
June 21, 1947 -- January 13, 2020
In memory of Judith Kaye Jacobs, class of 1966,
who passed away at the age of 72.
Judith Kaye Jacobs, age 72, of Grand Ledge, Michigan, entered her heavenly home on January 13, 2020. She was born June 21, 1947 in St. Johns, MI, daughter to the late Rev. Harold and Winifred (Irwin) Jacobs. She is survived by her dear sister, Janet Jacobs.
Judy was a graduate of Grand Ledge High School, Class of 1967. She was a member of the Grand Ledge First United Methodist Church, volunteered for forty years at the Sparrow Volunteer Office, and very proudly knitted cat and dog blankets for the Capital Area Humane Society. Judy always strived to be at her best living with her disability. She loved spending time with family, taking many trips over the years with her mother and sister, and enjoyed time with her friends at Serenity Place.
A funeral service will be held Friday, January 17, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 411 Harrison St., Grand Ledge, with Pastor Cynthia Skutar officiating. Interment will be at Gresham Cemetery, Chester Twp., MI. Visitation will be Thursday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Grand Ledge FUMC or Capital Area Humane Society. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com.
Judy was a graduate of Grand Ledge High School, Class of 1967. She was a member of the Grand Ledge First United Methodist Church, volunteered for forty years at the Sparrow Volunteer Office, and very proudly knitted cat and dog blankets for the Capital Area Humane Society. Judy always strived to be at her best living with her disability. She loved spending time with family, taking many trips over the years with her mother and sister, and enjoyed time with her friends at Serenity Place.
A funeral service will be held Friday, January 17, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 411 Harrison St., Grand Ledge, with Pastor Cynthia Skutar officiating. Interment will be at Gresham Cemetery, Chester Twp., MI. Visitation will be Thursday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Grand Ledge FUMC or Capital Area Humane Society. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com.
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Class of 1968
Sue Ann Dormer Figel
December 29, 1949 -- September 30, 2019
In memory of Sue Ann Dormer Figel class of 1968,
who passed away at the age of 69.
Sue Ann (Dormer) Figel of Ionia passed away at the young age 69, September 30, 2019, after losing her battle to pancreatic cancer. She was born on December 29, 1949 in Lansing, the daughter of Leon and Leah (Maurer) Dormer. She graduated from Grand Ledge High School with the class of 1968. Sue married her loving husband, George Figel on February 21, 1976 in Lansing. Her true passion and love was for her children and grandchildren; they could always count on her to be in their cheering section. She was a dedicated General Motors employee for 38 years as an inspector. Sue was a Women’s Chairperson for Local Union 602,1618. She was very involved in community support and activities within the plant including Rosie the Rivitar, golf outings, breast cancer awareness, Children’s Miracle Network, United Way and Toys for Tots. She also coordinated Halloween and Christmas holiday parties for the plant co workers and their families.
Sue will be greatly missed by the love of her life and best friend George Figel of Ionia; son Kurt (Darlene) Figel of Charlotte; daughters Kari (Ron) McCloud of Saranac, Lisa (Matthew) Chapko of St Johns, Jenifer (Kevin) Pogodzinski of Dorr and Carrie (Ray) Hall of Dewitt; grandchildren who adored her; Alexandria Fry, David Gonzales, Crystal Gonzales, Alexandria Winkler, Markus Gonzales, Tena (Jordan) Harnish, Jacob McCloud, Marcus McCloud, Monica Weber, Lindsay (Dale) Spitzley, Michael Weber, Joshua Pogodzinski, Aleah Hall, Quenten Hall, Jaden Hall and Ella Hall and 17 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother Leah Dormer, dad and step mom Leon and Maxine Dormer, brother and sister-in-law Bill and Dixie Dormer, sister and brother-in-law Pat and John Smith, grandson Derek Figel, great granddaughter Charlotte McCloud-Harnish, father and mother-in-law Lester and Louise Figel and brother-in-law Jan Wesley Figel.
Funeral services for Sue will be held 1:00 PM, Thursday, October 3rd at Lake Funeral Home in Ionia with Pastor Randy Cherpes officiating. Interment Balcom Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday from 11AM-1PM. Those wishing may make memorial contributions to Sparrow Hospice or Ionia Community Awareness. Online condolences may be made at www.lakefuneralhomes.com
Sue will be greatly missed by the love of her life and best friend George Figel of Ionia; son Kurt (Darlene) Figel of Charlotte; daughters Kari (Ron) McCloud of Saranac, Lisa (Matthew) Chapko of St Johns, Jenifer (Kevin) Pogodzinski of Dorr and Carrie (Ray) Hall of Dewitt; grandchildren who adored her; Alexandria Fry, David Gonzales, Crystal Gonzales, Alexandria Winkler, Markus Gonzales, Tena (Jordan) Harnish, Jacob McCloud, Marcus McCloud, Monica Weber, Lindsay (Dale) Spitzley, Michael Weber, Joshua Pogodzinski, Aleah Hall, Quenten Hall, Jaden Hall and Ella Hall and 17 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her mother Leah Dormer, dad and step mom Leon and Maxine Dormer, brother and sister-in-law Bill and Dixie Dormer, sister and brother-in-law Pat and John Smith, grandson Derek Figel, great granddaughter Charlotte McCloud-Harnish, father and mother-in-law Lester and Louise Figel and brother-in-law Jan Wesley Figel.
Funeral services for Sue will be held 1:00 PM, Thursday, October 3rd at Lake Funeral Home in Ionia with Pastor Randy Cherpes officiating. Interment Balcom Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday from 11AM-1PM. Those wishing may make memorial contributions to Sparrow Hospice or Ionia Community Awareness. Online condolences may be made at www.lakefuneralhomes.com
Class of 1968
David L. Engel
June 13, 1949 -- December 3, 2019 (Aged 70)
In memory of David Engel, class of 1968,
who passed away at the age of 70..
David L. Engel, age 70, of Sunfield, died December 3, 2019. Mr. Engel was born June 13, 1949 in Ionia, a son of James and Ethel (DuBois) Engel. He was a truck driver and a commercial artist. David was preceded in death by his wife, his parents and all but one of his brothers & sisters. Surviving are two daughters, Michelle Nyhus of Owosso and Melinda Engel of Ionia; grandchildren and sister, Debra Engel of Mulliken. Memorial services will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Barker-Leik Funeral Home, Mulliken.
Class of 1968
Kristina Guyer Webb
DATE OF PASSING: October 19, 2019
In memory of Kristina Guyer Webb, class of 1968, who passed away on October 19, 2019.
(NO OTHER INFORMATION WAS AVAILABLE AT THE TIME OF THEIR PASSING.)
Class of 1968
Elon Timothy "Tim" Iiams
October 1, 1949 -- November 5, 2019 (Aged 70)
In memory of Elon Timothy "Tim" Iiams, class of 1968,
who passed away at the age of 70.
Elon Timothy Iiams lifelong resident of Grand Ledge passed away November 5, 2019 in Lansing. Elon was born October 1, 1949 in Carson City, Michigan to the late Elon A. and Rachel L. (Randall) Iiams. He attended Grand Ledge High School and proudly served his country in the United State Army during Vietnam and retired from GM after 37 years of service. Elon enjoyed camping, fishing, and hunting, especially bow hunting. He also enjoyed watching Gunsmoke which was one of his favorite television shows. He is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Rebecca A (Campbell); daughters, Autumn Iiams, Angela Iiams and Amber (Timothy) Barnhart; grandchildren, Shemar Glover, Timar Iiams, Brennan, Maddison and Colby Barnhart; siblings, Mike (Kay), Sue (Jack) Kellogg and Kevin. A private family service will be held.
Memorial contributions may be given to the Disabled American Veterans. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Share your memorials and condolences online at www.holihanatkin.com
Memorial contributions may be given to the Disabled American Veterans. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Share your memorials and condolences online at www.holihanatkin.com
Class of 1968
Diane Lea Myers Fisher
May 21, 1950 - September 2, 2019
In memory of Diana Lea Myers Fisher, class of 1968,
who passed away at the age of 69.
Diane Lea Myers (Fisher) of Beaver Falls, PA, formerly of Grand Ledge, MI, passed away on September 2, 2019 at the age of 69. She was born May 21, 1950 in Lansing, MI, daughter to Richard and Ettie (Sullivan) Myers. Diane worked as the office manager of her husband’s company, Blackhawk Mechanical. Above anything else in life, family was most important to Diane. She loved them all dearly, enjoyed spending time with them, especially her beautiful grandchildren.
She will be greatly missed by her life partner of 25 years, Theodore “Ted”, children, Jody (Alan) Barnes and Greg (Linda) Fisher, grandchildren: Melanie, Madison, Amanda, and Tyler; brother Rick (Ida) Myers, sister April Lynn (Melvin) Babbitt, nieces and nephews: Lucas, Lori, Tina, Tammi, and Anthony, and was preceded in death by her parents Richard and Ettie Myers and brother Denny Myers.
A funeral service will be held Saturday, September 7, 2019 – 11:00 a.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Interment at Wacousta Cemetery, Watertown Twp., Clinton County. Visitation will be held Friday from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home. For those wishing, contributions made to any charity of choice will be greatly appreciated. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
She will be greatly missed by her life partner of 25 years, Theodore “Ted”, children, Jody (Alan) Barnes and Greg (Linda) Fisher, grandchildren: Melanie, Madison, Amanda, and Tyler; brother Rick (Ida) Myers, sister April Lynn (Melvin) Babbitt, nieces and nephews: Lucas, Lori, Tina, Tammi, and Anthony, and was preceded in death by her parents Richard and Ettie Myers and brother Denny Myers.
A funeral service will be held Saturday, September 7, 2019 – 11:00 a.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Interment at Wacousta Cemetery, Watertown Twp., Clinton County. Visitation will be held Friday from 5-7 p.m. at the funeral home. For those wishing, contributions made to any charity of choice will be greatly appreciated. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
Class of 1968
Gary Allen Richey
August 29, 1950 - August 13, 2019
In memory of Gary Allen Richey, class of 1968,
who passed away at the age of 68.
Gary A. Richey, born August 29, 1950 in Lansing, MI, passed away on August 13, 2019 at the age of 68. Gary was a union carpenter; well known as Tonto of Tonto and the Renegades, and together the band was inducted into the Michigan Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013.
Gary is survived by his wife of 43 years, Loritta, sons Jason (Tracy) Richey and Mark (Tonya) Richey; 6 grandchildren: Taylor, Everett, Rylen, Koah, Asher, and Zuriel; his loving mother, Beverly Vogel, stepmother Donna Richey; brothers: Dave (Jean), Ron Richey, Doug (Lynn), Larry (Patricia), stepsister Michelle Twitchell, stepbrother Mark Twitchell; many nieces and nephews, and was preceded in death by his father Gerald Richey.
Funeral services will be held Monday, August 19, 2019 – 1:00 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Visitations will be Sunday from 4-7 p.m. and Monday one hour prior to service. For those wishing, memorial contributions made to Lansing Teen Challenge will be greatly appreciated. Online condolences may be made at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
Gary is survived by his wife of 43 years, Loritta, sons Jason (Tracy) Richey and Mark (Tonya) Richey; 6 grandchildren: Taylor, Everett, Rylen, Koah, Asher, and Zuriel; his loving mother, Beverly Vogel, stepmother Donna Richey; brothers: Dave (Jean), Ron Richey, Doug (Lynn), Larry (Patricia), stepsister Michelle Twitchell, stepbrother Mark Twitchell; many nieces and nephews, and was preceded in death by his father Gerald Richey.
Funeral services will be held Monday, August 19, 2019 – 1:00 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Visitations will be Sunday from 4-7 p.m. and Monday one hour prior to service. For those wishing, memorial contributions made to Lansing Teen Challenge will be greatly appreciated. Online condolences may be made at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
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Class of 1969
Curtis W. Babb
November 28, 1951 - July 16, 2019
In memory of Curtis W. Babb, class of 1969,
who passed away at the age of 67.
Curtis W. Babb, 67, passed away at home, in Menomonee Falls, WI on July 16, 2019. Although he moved numerous times, Curt considered Grand Ledge his home town. On July 2, 2014 – Curt received the gift of life, in the form of a double lung transplant. After the blessing of four additional years, his body was affected by the anti-rejection medications. He served in the National Guard, and had a successful career as a packaging engineer. He was inducted into the Michigan State University and the PMMI Packaging Halls of Fame in 2012. Curt retired from active work in 2011 and afterwards, operated a successful consulting business for several years. He actively gave back to society by serving on numerous boards, and associations. Active in scouts, he was a scout master, and received, the Order of the Arrow. Curt loved the outdoors, and was an avid golfer. Always thrilled, when achieving a “hole in one”.
Curtis is survived by his wife, Paula (Tiedt) of 48 years, son Jeremy Babb, daughter Melisa (Kevin) Housel, 4 grandchildren; sister, Christine Ingalls, brothers: Carleton (Linda), Craig (Corine), Casey (Sue), and M. David (Nancy) Tiedt, and was preceded in death by his parents Carleton and Betty (Bannon) Babb and brother-in-law James Ingalls.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, July 25, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. at the Grand Ledge First United Methodist Church, 411 Harrison St., with interment to follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. Visitation will be Wednesday, July 24th from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mayo Transplant Center, 200 1st St. SW, Rochester, MN 55905 or Gift of Life Transplant House, 705 2nd St. SW, Rochester, MN 55902. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
Curtis is survived by his wife, Paula (Tiedt) of 48 years, son Jeremy Babb, daughter Melisa (Kevin) Housel, 4 grandchildren; sister, Christine Ingalls, brothers: Carleton (Linda), Craig (Corine), Casey (Sue), and M. David (Nancy) Tiedt, and was preceded in death by his parents Carleton and Betty (Bannon) Babb and brother-in-law James Ingalls.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, July 25, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. at the Grand Ledge First United Methodist Church, 411 Harrison St., with interment to follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge. Visitation will be Wednesday, July 24th from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mayo Transplant Center, 200 1st St. SW, Rochester, MN 55905 or Gift of Life Transplant House, 705 2nd St. SW, Rochester, MN 55902. Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com
Class of 1969
Darwin LeRoy Greenhoe
December 19, 1949 -- February 9, 2020
In memory of Darwin LeRoy Greenhoe, class of 1969,
who passed away at the age of 70.
Darwin LeRoy Greenhoe, age 70, formerly of Grand Ledge, passed away Sunday evening, February 9, 2020 at the Michigan Masonic Home in Alma.
The son of Rollie & Goldie (Husted) Greenhoe, he was born on December 19, 1949 in Lansing and worked for over 30 years at Federal Forge as a crane and press operator.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Darrell.
Surviving are his sons, Daniel & Meghan Greenhoe of Grand Ledge, and Darrell & Jessica Greenhoe of Lansing; a granddaughter, Nola Moon Greenhoe; his sons’ mother, Veronica Ann (Rafol) Greenhoe; a sister, Diane & James Briggs of Stanton; and several nieces.
No services are planned at this time. To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Darwin’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com
Cremation arrangements were entrusted to Christiansen’s Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Greenville, (616) 754-5638.
The son of Rollie & Goldie (Husted) Greenhoe, he was born on December 19, 1949 in Lansing and worked for over 30 years at Federal Forge as a crane and press operator.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Darrell.
Surviving are his sons, Daniel & Meghan Greenhoe of Grand Ledge, and Darrell & Jessica Greenhoe of Lansing; a granddaughter, Nola Moon Greenhoe; his sons’ mother, Veronica Ann (Rafol) Greenhoe; a sister, Diane & James Briggs of Stanton; and several nieces.
No services are planned at this time. To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Darwin’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com
Cremation arrangements were entrusted to Christiansen’s Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Greenville, (616) 754-5638.
Class of 1969
Scott William Horrocks
February 1, 1950 -- January 18, 2020
In memory of Scott William Horrocks, class of 1969,
who passed away at the age of 69.
Scott William Horrocks of Grand Ledge passed away peacefully January 18, 2020. Scott was born February 1, 1950 in Ionia, Michigan to Jerald and Patricia (Reimer) Horrocks. Scott graduated from Grand Ledge High Scholl Class of 1969 and attended the Robert J. Flaherty School of Cinema and Mark Hopkins College for 1 year each. He went on to work as a Brick Mason who was sought after for the professionalism and detail in his work. As a young man, Scott was a talented athlete who could play any position in baseball and was almost always brought in as a closer. Scott enjoyed to fish and loved to golf. He was a Golf Pro at Centennial Acres Golf Course. Scott was a great story teller and always brought an element of humor in a way only he could do.
He is survived by his children, Brandon (Alison) and Abby (Joseph) Kenney; grandchildren, Jack, Jane, Emily, Easton and Everett; brothers, Kim (Ana) and Kirk (Kay) Horrocks; niece, Autumn (Ryan) Horrocks-Trierweiler and nephew, Adam (Mallory) Horrocks. He was preceded in death by his dad, Jerald.
A memorial gathering will be held Saturday, January 25, 2020, 2-4:00 p.m. at Bridge and Main, 219 Bridge Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Scott’s memory may be given to Lansing Central AA, 1915 E. Michigan Avenue, Suite D, Lansing, Michigan 48912. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
He is survived by his children, Brandon (Alison) and Abby (Joseph) Kenney; grandchildren, Jack, Jane, Emily, Easton and Everett; brothers, Kim (Ana) and Kirk (Kay) Horrocks; niece, Autumn (Ryan) Horrocks-Trierweiler and nephew, Adam (Mallory) Horrocks. He was preceded in death by his dad, Jerald.
A memorial gathering will be held Saturday, January 25, 2020, 2-4:00 p.m. at Bridge and Main, 219 Bridge Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Scott’s memory may be given to Lansing Central AA, 1915 E. Michigan Avenue, Suite D, Lansing, Michigan 48912. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
Class of 1969
Thomas Leon Huhn
October 11, 1950 -- March 23, 2020
In memory of Thomas Leon Huhn, class of 1969,
who passed away at the age of 69.
Thomas (Thom) Leon Huhn of Potterville, Michigan passed away March 23, 2020 surrounded by his loving family. Thom was born October 11, 1950 in Lansing to the late Leon and Marguerite (Zynda) Huhn. He graduated from Grand Ledge High School, Class of 1969, and worked in sales at Sundance Chevrolet. Thom’s 54 years in the auto business started as a teenager in the family business, Huhn Chevrolet. He was soon promoted to new car sales and later to General Manager. He stayed on with the dealership as it transitioned to Sundance Chevrolet, keepinghim in the “family business.” His love of automobiles started as a young child and he was a car man through and through. He enjoyed restoring cars, attending classic car shows, and was a fan of all types of auto racing. Friends and family enjoyed rides in the many restoration projects Thom completed, a favorite of which was a dune buggy he built the summer following his high school graduation and had lovingly maintained to this day. Thom had an infectious smile and a heart of gold. He was an amazing man!
He is survived by his wife of over 19 years, Mary (Rodocker); sons, Robert (Michelle), Clint (Carol), Greg (Hannah) Rodocker, Geoff (Heather) Rodocker; 8 grandchildren; sisters, Nancy Huhn, Susan (Thomas) Kage, Diane (Carolyn) Huhn; brother, Phillip (Kim); and aunts, Jane Huhn, Georgia Fry, and Joyce (Ralph) Morr; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, his uncle Lyle (Bettie) Huhn, and his aunt Wilma (Gene) Moyer.
A public memorial service will be planned when it is safe to do so. Memorial contributions may be given to the Grand Ledge Historical Society. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
He is survived by his wife of over 19 years, Mary (Rodocker); sons, Robert (Michelle), Clint (Carol), Greg (Hannah) Rodocker, Geoff (Heather) Rodocker; 8 grandchildren; sisters, Nancy Huhn, Susan (Thomas) Kage, Diane (Carolyn) Huhn; brother, Phillip (Kim); and aunts, Jane Huhn, Georgia Fry, and Joyce (Ralph) Morr; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, his uncle Lyle (Bettie) Huhn, and his aunt Wilma (Gene) Moyer.
A public memorial service will be planned when it is safe to do so. Memorial contributions may be given to the Grand Ledge Historical Society. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge.
Class of 1969
Darlene Sue "Misner" Kerr
October 9, 1950 -- May 28, 2019
In memory of Darlene Sue "Misner" Kerr, class of 1969,
who passed away at the age of 69.
Darlene Sue Kerr of Delta Township a loving mother, grandma, sister and friend passed away May 28, 2019. Darlene was born in Grand Ledge on October 9, 1950 to the late Elmer and Mary (Adams) Misener. Darlene graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1969 retired from UPS at the Capital Region Airport in Lansing. She will be remembered by her family and friends for her great sense of humor, quick wit and someone who easily made friends. She cherished and always looked forward to spending time with her great grandson, Noah.
She is survived by her children, Terissa Kerr, Robert (Wendi) Kerr, Barbara Kerr and Carie (Tony) McClellan; grandchildren, Chelsea, Jarrid, Michael, Gabriel, Jayden, Logan, Jordan and Patrick; great grandson, Noah; siblings, Terry (Donna) Misener, Edward (Denise) Misener, Ruth Ann Wells, Katherine Vannortrick and Marlene Lewis along with numerous nieces and nephews. Darlene was preceded in death by husband, Robert J.; sister, Dorothy Garrett and brother, Elmer Misener.
A Celebration of Darlene’s life will be held at a later time. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Memorial contributions may be given to the family to be used according to their wishes.
She is survived by her children, Terissa Kerr, Robert (Wendi) Kerr, Barbara Kerr and Carie (Tony) McClellan; grandchildren, Chelsea, Jarrid, Michael, Gabriel, Jayden, Logan, Jordan and Patrick; great grandson, Noah; siblings, Terry (Donna) Misener, Edward (Denise) Misener, Ruth Ann Wells, Katherine Vannortrick and Marlene Lewis along with numerous nieces and nephews. Darlene was preceded in death by husband, Robert J.; sister, Dorothy Garrett and brother, Elmer Misener.
A Celebration of Darlene’s life will be held at a later time. Arrangements by the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Memorial contributions may be given to the family to be used according to their wishes.
Class of 1969
Wanda A. Skinner
May 2019
(NO OTHER INFORMATION WAS AVAILABLE AT THE TIME OF HIS PASSING.)
Class of 1969
Marsha Ann Weir
October 20, 1950 - August 23, 2019
In memory of Marsha Ann Weir, class of 1969,
who passed away at the age of 69.
Marsha Ann Weir, a lifelong Grand Ledge resident, passed away in Lansing with her family by her side. Marsha was born October 20, 1950 in Lansing, Michigan to the late Eldon A. and Marguerite A. (Miles) Weir. She graduated from Grand Ledge High School Class of 1969. Marsha was an old soul and matriarch of the family. Spending time with her family was something she always looked forward to and made a priority.
She is survived by grandchildren, Devyn (Phillip) Socha, Keegan Waldecker and Breanna Cierlik, sister, Sandra (John) Hart; brother, David Weir along with several nieces and nephews. Marsha was preceded in death by daughter, Shannon L. Waldecker and son, Chad A. Cierlik.
A funeral service will be held Tuesday, August 27, 2019, 3:00 p.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge with The Reverend Spring M. Hobbs, officiating. Visitation will be Monday from 6-9:00 p.m. and Tuesday from 2-3:00 p.m at the funeral home. Memorial contributions in Marsha's name may be given to the Cole Briggs Memorial Honor Guard, 731 N. Clinton Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837
She is survived by grandchildren, Devyn (Phillip) Socha, Keegan Waldecker and Breanna Cierlik, sister, Sandra (John) Hart; brother, David Weir along with several nieces and nephews. Marsha was preceded in death by daughter, Shannon L. Waldecker and son, Chad A. Cierlik.
A funeral service will be held Tuesday, August 27, 2019, 3:00 p.m. at the Holihan-Atkin-Barclay Funeral Home, Grand Ledge with The Reverend Spring M. Hobbs, officiating. Visitation will be Monday from 6-9:00 p.m. and Tuesday from 2-3:00 p.m at the funeral home. Memorial contributions in Marsha's name may be given to the Cole Briggs Memorial Honor Guard, 731 N. Clinton Street, Grand Ledge, Michigan 48837