- EATON RAPIDS DEATHS & OBITUARIES - 2007

HELEN ELA~E PARSONS Helen Elaine.Parsons of Eaton

Rapids, age 5{i, passed away Saturday, December 23, 2006 in Lansing. Helen was born July IO, 1950 in Pikeville, Kentucky. Sbe was a member of the Grace Free

~ Will Baptist Church in Albion and retired from Eaton Intennediate Schools in 2005. Preceded in

, death by her father, Ireland ' Adkins; 6 brothers and sisters,

Sanford, Barbara Jean, Randall Lee, Patricia Ann, Bobbie Lee and Kimmie.

Helen is the loving daughter of Thelma Adkins of Eaton Rapids; the loving mother of her daughter, Dede Parsons of Eaton Rapids and son, Dean (Angie Keating) Parsons, Jr. of Springpon , and 2 grandchildren, Dakota &. Derek Keating. Also surviving are l brother, Fred (Dawn) Adkins of Eaton Rapids and 2 nieces, Miracle ·& Jade Adkir:1S.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, December 27, 2006 at the Grace Free Will Baptist Church, 16680 E. Michigan

· Albion with' Pastor Earl Martin officiating. Jntennent followed at Munger Cemetery, Eaton Rapids. Those desiring may make memo­rial contributions to tile Grace Free Will Baptist Church in mem­ory of Helen Parsons. Arrangements by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids. www.shellyodell.com. f='.l~

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VERLIE M. CURTIS-MCDONALD

Verlie M. Cunis-McDonald of Eaton Rapids, age 97, died

:. Tuesday, December 26, 2006 in Jackson. Verlie was born August 28, 1909 in Boyne City, the daughter of Roy Ackley and Evelene (Howie) Cady. She was a co-owner of Coast to Coast

· Hardware Store in Eaton Rapids and a member of the First Baptist Church, Eaton Rapids. Preceded in death by 2 -husbands, Leland Curtis and Nonnan McDonald· 4 brothers, Perry, Bill, Don ~d Joseph Cady; 3 sisters, Elizabeth Chew, Lois Winters and Mable Raymer.

Verlie is survived by 5 daugh­ters, Marjorie Hogle of East Lansing, Elenore Devers of Eaton Rapids, Nonna Chapman of Fort Meyers, FI., Kay (Ward) Page of Dover, TN, and Janice (Terry) Dean of Bradenton, FL; 2 sons, Lon (Judy) Curtis of Eaton Rapids, Dean Curlis of Phoenix AZ; 22 grandchildren; 36 grea~ grand chi ldren; numerous great great grandchildren; 1 sister, Margaret Giddings · of Eaton Rapids; 2 sisters-in-law, .Gladys Cady and Lillian Cady, both of Eaton Rapids.

Funeral services were held on December 29, 2006 at the Shelly­Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids. Interment followed at Draper Cemetery, Rives Junction. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Youth Haven Ranch Rives· Junction and envelopes ar~ available at the Funeral Home.

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.., Lester Benjamin Holley.,_ aie

78, of Eaton Rapids died SUOOily, · December 24, 2006 at the Eaton Community Hospice in Charlotte. He was born September 24, i928 in Stockbridge the son of Lester B. Sr. and Bessie I. (Best) Holley. Les was the transporation Supervisor for the V.F.W. National Home in Eaton Rapids, serving for over 37 years and was an honorary life member of the V.F.W. National Home. Following retirement Les and daughter ~e opened and operated Plains Road Small Engine Repair. Les was a motor­cycle enthusiast and was always ~ willing to help those with mechanical problems with their cycles. H was precededed in death by his parents, Lester and Bessie; granddaughter, Mindy Reed; grandson, Chad Schwanz; daughter-in-law, Sherry Schwartz; sister, Florence Vincent; 3 brothers, Rona), George and Chester Holley.

He is survivied by his wife of 40 years, Martha; 15 children, Lester "Butch" (Mary) Holley ID, Patti Holley, Joyce (Dan) Doxtader, Vicki (Jerry) Reed, Cyril Schwartz, Rhonda (Rod) Pressley, Juanita (Buck) Helfer, Cindy (Mike) Miller, Mike Schwartz, Joe Schwartz, J9an (James) Lester, Janice Schw<tf!Z, Christine (Steve) Goddard, Diane. Schwartz and April (Jay) Fro~t:31 grandchildren and 40 greatgrand­chi ldren; 2 brothers, Ottmar (Donna) Holley and Harry (Lois) Holley and many nieces and : nephews.

Mass of the Christian Burial was held December 28, 2006 from St. Peter ·Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. Ben Constantine as celebrant. Bwial followed in the Greenwood Cemetery in Aurelius Township. For those desiring memorial conuibutions may be made to either the V.F.W. National Home, The Alzheimer's

Association .or the American Cancer Society in Memory of Lester B. Holley, Jr.

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Melissa Jo Price Eaton Rapids, Mt Born October 8, 1966. Loving daughter, sister and aunt, and most recent wife passed away in her home December 301 2006 of Leukemia, with family and friends at her side. She was pre­ceded in death by her mother, Jean Tompkins in 1992. Melissa loved life, she enjoyed gardening, kayaking with her sister, and was one of Common Grounds best pa­trons, front and center everyday. She also enjoyed hunting with her brother and dad, going to ca­sinos with Cousin Joe, and dirt track races with the Circle of Life. A ceremony was held to join together Melissa and Scott Sparks on December 29, 2006. She was always looking out for others and touched the hearts of all who knew her. She will be missed by many. A Memorial • service Wiii be held Wednes • day January 3, 2007 at 2 p.m. at Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids. Contributions may be made to the family.

DAVID B. MILLER JR.

David B. Miller Jr., age 78, p~sed away January 6, 2007. He was born on Apri I 22, 1929. Son to Lois and David Miller of Eaton Rapids, MI. David was born on the fami ly farm on Canfield Rd., in Eaton County. He attended school at the Brickyard School House in Eaton County. A bit later he married Beverly Scott (later divorced). They buil t a home next to his Ma and started a fam ily. Having eight clli ldren, thirteen grandchi ldren and five .. great-grandchildren.

Dad worked mostly as a truck driver delivering sand, gravel and concrete for many years. He was also known to have laid a block or two and place some concrete in hi s day. He enjoyed a cold Drewrys from time to time, and the rich robust taste of a Lucky Strike.

Dad will be missed but never forgotten by all that knew him. Farewell for now, breathe easy my friend. We will see you soon. Love always, your entire family.

Leland E. Peck Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 91, died Sunday, January 14, 2007 in Charlotte. Leland was born April 14, 1915 in McKinley Twp, Cass County, MN, the son of Leland Lee and Mabel (Orr) Peck. He retired as a welder from Warner-Swasey in Lansing and farmed for many years. Leland al­ways had a great garden and was a wonderful story teller. On Novem­ber 21, 200~. Leland mounted a neighbor's horse and rode around the family farm. He will b~ greatly missed by all those who knew and loved him. Preceded in death by his loving · wife, Opal 0. Peck in 2000; 2 brothers, Harland and Robert Peck, Leland is survived by his 2 nieces, Donna Jean (Robert) Zentmyer of California, Terrelene (Dale) Swetland of Grass Lake; nephew, Larry (Cindy) Peck of Hillman; 2 cousins, Janet (Dick) Wendorf of Florida, Ward (Sandy) Orr of Eaton Rapids; several grand nieces and grand neehews; his best old friend "Spotty (who has joined him in heaven); and a host of friends and neighbors. There will be no services. Arrange­ments by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Raf.ids. L 3 j www.shellyodel.com \ - \'l-0/

Sue Brown Eaton Rapids, Ml

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Age 59, passed away Wednes­day, January 17, 2007 in Lansing. Sue was a mem­ber of the Ameri­can Legion Post #491 of Leslie and life member of VFW Post #7309 of Mason. She was preceded in

death by Ji.er father, Arch Rogers, Jr. and is survived by 2 daughters, Shelly (Thomas) Smith of Mason and Mindy (Brock) Spayd of Eaton Rapids; 2 sons, Todd (Theresa) Matthews of Newnan, GA and Montie (Sandra) Matthews of Eaton Rapids; her very loved 10 grandchildren, Josh and Sammi Smith, Courtney Barnett and Alys­sa Spayd, Kelsey, Nik, and Cole Matthews, Andy (Jessie) Ogston, Theresa and Codr. Matthews; and 2 great-grandchildren, Dominic Morrison and Aliza Ogston; moth­er, Maxine Miller of Eaton Rapids; 2 brothers, Harvey L. (Shirley) Rogers of Duck Lake, Arch Rogers III (Judy) of Gilbertsville, KY; half-brother, Chip; 6 steJ?brothers and sisters; and several rueces and nephews. Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Monday, January 22, 2007 at the Shelly­Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids. The family will receive friends on Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the funer­al home. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the American Legion, Leslie, Post #491 Women's Auxiliary in memory of Sue Brown. www.shellyodell.com

LORENE O. KREISCHER Lorene 0. ·Kreischer of

Springport, passed away on Friday, January 19, 2007 under the loving care of her family and hospice, at the age of 87.

She is survivied by her five children, Milo (Inez), John (Mabel), Robert (Mary), Leonard (Margaret) Kreischer, and Linda (Kenneth) Cook, 12 grandchil­dren, 23 great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, James, one sister and three brothers. Lorene was a wonderful mother and grandmother who worked for 20 years as a waitress.

Cremation has taken place and there will be no services. In lieu of flowers, memorial con-

• tributions may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice, 2675 South Cochran, Charlotte, MI 48813. Arrangements are being handled by the J.C. Adams Funeral Home, Springport Chapel , (517) 857-

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Susan Marie Perkins 'I d ?>101 Eatqn Rapids, Ml Age 49, loving daughter, mother and sister passed away unexpect­edly January 22, 2007 in Lansin~. Susan was born Atigust 2, 1957 m Lahsing, Michigan and was the daughter of Donald C. and Patricia Ann (Marx) Perkins. Susan's pa8-

. sio~ was doing extensive research into family genealogy. She devot­ed many years of her life working with Cambodian/Vietnamese post war refugees under the ausP.ices of the Catholic Church. Surviving are her daughters, Haley and Alexandra; 8 sisters; 2 brothers; 24 nieces and nephews. Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, January 23, 2007 with a Rosary 7:00 p.m. at. St. Casimir Catholic Churcli. The Funeral litel]O' is 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 24, 2007 at St. Casimir Catholic Church, 815 Sparrow Avenue, ~. · with Father Bill Lugger, officiat­ing. Rite of Committal will be St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions may be ·made to Kathy Kimbrel for Susan's daughters' education. You may visit the guestbook at www.tiffanyfuneralhome.c-0m. Arrangements with Tiffany Funeral Home.

THELMA ELIZABETH CAMERON

Thelma Elizabeth Cameron of Ealon Rapids, age 81 , passed away Friday, January 19, 2007 in Albion. Thelma was born September 8, 1925 in Paragould, ~rkansas, the daughter of Charles Albert and Edith May (Ayers) Lee. She was preceded in death by her husband, Sylvester Cameron in 1990.

She is survived by 3 chil­dren, Dee (Don) Kelly of Eaton Rapids, Darrell (Nolita) Cameron of Columbia, .TN, Jeannette Sue (Ward) Tackett of Albion; 6 grandchildren, Teresa (Randy) Auge, Allen (Angie) Kelly, Candida (Scott) Hall, Derek Cameron, Angela Cameron, John Jankovic; 5 great grandchildren, Ray & Brett Auge, Don Kelly, Chris & Nathan Hall ; sister, Violet (Simms) Martin of Williford, AR; and several nieces & nephews.

Funeral services will ~ held 1 :00 p.m. today, January 23, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids with Greg Steer of the Holt Christian Church officiating. Interment will fol­low at Munger Cemetery, Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Foundation in memory of Thelma E. Cameron. www.shellyodell,com ~/~ l-~3 -01

SUE BROWN Sue Brown of Eaton Rapids,

age 59, passed away Wednesday, January 17, 2007 in Lansing. Sue was a member of the American Legion Post #491 of Leslie and life member of VFW Post # 7309 of Mason. Preceded in death by her father, Arch Rogers, Jr.

She was the loving mother of 4 children, Shelly (Thomas) Smith •ob Mason, Mindy (Brock) Spayd of Eaton Rapids, Todd (Theresa) Matthews of Newnan, · GA and Montie (Sandra) Matthews of Eaton Rapids; her very loved IO grandchildren, Josh & Sammi Smith, Courtney Barnett & Alyssa Spayd, Kelsey, Nik, and Cole Matthews, Andy (Jessie) Ogston, Theresa & Cody Matthews; and 2 great grand­children, Dominic Morrison & Aliza Ogston; mother, Maxine Miller of Eaton Rapids; 2 broth­ers, Harvey L. (Shirley) Rogers of Duck Lake, Arch Rogers III (Judy) of Gilbertsville, KY; half brother, Chip; 6 step brothers & sisters; and several nieces & nephews. .

Funeral services were held

Monday, January 22, 2007 at

the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home,

518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids.

Those desiring may make

memorial contributions to the

American Legion, Leslie, Post

# 491 Women's Auxiliary in

memory of Sue Brown. Her

family would like to extend a

heartfelt "thank you" to all ~f the wonderful people who

helped Sue over the years.

www.shellyodell .com Fl a.o/u4. 1-J.. 3 - 0t

ANNE MARIE (GULLIVER) REED Anne Marie (Gulliver)

Reed, age 35 of Clark Lake passed away ·at W.A. Foote Memorial Hospital on January 16, 2007. Anne was' botn on July 2, 1971 in Jackson the daughter of Ted and Betty (Steward) Gulliver. ·

. An_ne is survived by her parents and sister: Katie (Rob) Clark of Clarklake, maternal grandmother: Marion Steward of FL, paternal ·grandparents: Chuck and Nina Gulliver of Eaton Rapids ; aunts and uncles: Marie Dalton of Jackson, Gary (Debbie) Gulliver of Haslett, Christine (Keith) Pople of TN and Chama (Bob) Welch of Eaton Rapids. She . was preceded in death by her maternal grandfa­ther: Henry Ford Steward. Anne was a member of DisAbility Connections and Passages both in Jackson, the Michigan Center Bible Church, and a former member of Dancing Wheels in Hampton, VA. Anne graduated from Columbia Central High School, Adrian College and attended Grand Valley State University and was a former teacher at Columbia Central High School. Anne liked being with friends and family, teach­ing, church activities, sailing, campfires, singing, attending and performing in musical the­ater. She enjoyed Clarklake "Walks" and · being with her cat. She will be remembered by her friends and family and those she would meet by her warm and bright smile. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her.

A healing farewell service for Anne was held on Saturday, January 20, 2007 at the Michigan Center Bible Church, John Tovey & Cindy Landrum officiated. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to DisAbility Connections, 409 Linden, Jackson, Mi 49203 or National Ataxia . Foundation, 2600 Fernbrook Lane, Suite 119, Minneapolis, MN 55447-4572. Please sign Anne's guest book www.borekjennings.com. f I {J.,()Jvo. I- :i. ?,- o 1

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Freddie "Mr. Maxine" West Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 70, passed away Tuesday, Janull!Y 23, 2007 at his home. Freddie was born July 11, 1936 in Waterford Twp., Oakland County, the son of John Charles and Idella Mae (Schiller) West. He retired from a

40 year career with Metalist Inter­national in Lansing, served as a volunteer at South Baptist Church and helped build the Robbins UMC fellowship hall and new

:-kitchen along with Pastor Joe Houston and B~ll England. Freddy and"his wife built the family busi­ness, Maxine's Cake & Supply Shoppe, in Eaton Rapids and he lovingly became known as "Mr. Maxine". Preceded in death by eleven brothers and sisters, he is survived by his wife of 40 years, Maxine; daughter, Tonya Zoe' (JefO Plekes of Rockford; son, Brent Frederick West of Grand Rapids; 2 grandchildren, MaKayla Zoe' and Jarrett Plekes; brother, Edgar (Mary) West ofLansing; sis­ter, Della Thompson of Levering; and many, many beloved nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. Friday, Janupy 26, _2007 at the Shelly­Odel,, Funeral Home, 518 s. Main, Eaton Rapids. Interment will follow' at Munger Cemetery, Eaton Rapids. The family will re­ceive friends and family on Thurs­day from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the Funeral Home. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to Ingham Home Health Care Hospice or "Eaton Community Hospice in memory of Freddie West. www.shellyodell.com l.S .~ \-~~~D7

JAMES R. ISHAM James R. Isham of Eaton

Rapids, formerly of Leslie, went home to be with his Lord on Monday, January 22, 2007 at the age of 56.

He is sur\rivied by his wife of 12 years, Lisa, five children, Sarah Isham, Ellen (Chad) Ankney, Paul Orta, Melissa Orta, and Maria Orta, three grandchildren, Ethan Brodberg, Emily Hicks, Alex Ankney, mother, Noreen Isham, three brothers, Gene (Peggy), Russ (Char) and Dan (JoAnn) Isham, five sisters, Martha (Roger) Ott, Kathy . (Fritz) Whitman, Ruth Thibault, Esther (Richard) Wilson, Becky (Ted) Sawyer, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles. He was preceded in death by his father, Charlie, and brother-in-

. law, David Thibault. Jim worked at Len Industry for 27 years, and was a member of the Eaton Rapids Wesleyan Church.

A service celebrating Jim's life was held at the Eaton Rapids Wesleyan Church on January 26, 2007 with Pastor Frank Klassen officiating. Interment followed at Walker Cemetery. For those who wish memorial contributions may be ma:le to the Gideon's or to the family. fl~

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F~DDIE "MR. MAXINE;' WEST

Freddie "Mr. Maxine" West of Eaton Rapids, age 70, passed away Tuesday, January 23, 2007 at his home. Freddie was born July 11, 1936 in Waterford '.fwp., Oakland County, the son of John Charles and Idella Mae (Schiller) West. He retired from a 40 year· career with Metalist International in Lansing, served as a volunteer at South Baptist Church and helped build the Robbins UMC fellowship hall and new kitchen along with Pastor Joe Houston. and Bill England. Freddy and his wife built the family business, Maxine's Cake & Supply Shoppe, in Eaton Rapids and he lovingly became known as "Mr. Maxine". Preceded in death by eleven brothers and sisters.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Maxine; daughter, Tonya Zoe' (Jeff) Plekes of Rockford; .son, Brent Frederick West of Grand Rapids; 2 grand­children, MaKayla Zoe' and Jarrett Plekes; brother, Edgar (Mary) West of Lansing; sister; Della Thompson of Levering; and many many beloved nieces & nephews.

Funeral services were held January 26, 2007 at the Shelly­Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids with Pastor Randy Umfleet of South Church officiating. Interment followed at Munger Cemetery. Eaton Rapids with his nephews, Larry (Deceased), Bud, George, Greg, Johnny, Howard, Russell, Alvin, Jeffrey, Jamie, Billie, Robbie, Terry, Jessie, and Tommy as casket bearers. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to Ingham Home Health Care Hospice or Eaton Community Hospice in memory of Freddie West www.shellyodell.com.

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LELAND E. PECK Leland E. Peck of Eaton

Rapids, age 91, died Sunday, Jan. 14, 2007 in Charlotte. Leland was born April 14, 1915 in McKinley Twp, Cass County, MN, the son of Leland Lee and Mabel (Orr) Peck. He retired as a welder from Warner-Swasey in Lansing and farmed for many years. Leland always had a great garden and was a wonderful story telltit On November 21, 2006, Leland mounted a neighbor's horse and rode around the fain­ily farm. He will be greatly missed by all those who knew and loved him. Preceded in death by his loving wife, Opal 0. Peck in 2000: 2 brothers, Harland and Robert Peck.

Leland is survived by his 2 nieces, Donna Jean (Robert) Zentmyer of California, Terrelene (Dale) Swetland of Grass Lake; nephew, Larry. (Cindy) Peck of Hillman; 2 cousins, Janet (Dick) Wendorf · of Aorida, Ward (Sandy) Orr of Eaton Rapids; several grand nieces and grand nephews; his best old friend."Spotty" (who has joined him in heave.n); and a host of friends and neigh­bors. There will be no rvices.

Arrangements were the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids. www.shellyo­dell.com. F=' l~

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Michael A. "Mike" McCune · Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 62, passed away Saturday, January 27, 2007 in Eaton Rapids. Mike was born February 21, 1944 in Moline, IL, the son of Albert Ri­chard and Donna Leah (Ryan) McCune. He and his father went in­

to partnership to help run WestW<9d Implement, which was a John Deere Dealership in Grand Ledge, Michigan in the 1960s M_ike retired in 2004 after 36 year~ with G.M., was an active Great Lakes boater, loved fishing and hunting in Texas and Wyoming and just loved the "great out-of~ d~ors". He was very involved with

· h!s _grandchildren's activities. Sur­VlVlng are his wife of 18 years Teresa A. (Crall); 4 daughters' Beth (David) Kessler of Bath' Michelle (Patrick) Sweet of Eato~ ~pids, LeAnn. Huntley of Bath, Nicalena (Kevm) Wojciechowski of Detroit; 1 son, Brandon Crall­M~Cune of Eaton Rapids; 9 p-and­children; father and mother-in­law, James and Dorothy Crall of Eaton Rapids; sister, Holly Beth McCune of Arizona; brother-in­law, Mike (Lori) Crall of Pontiac· and seve~al ni~ces an~ nephews'. The family will receive friends and family from 2:00-8:00 p.m. on Monday, January 29, 2007 at the Sh~lly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Mam, Eaton Rapids. A memorial service will tie held later, In lieu of flowers, memorial contri­butions may be made to the American .can~er Society or Spar­row Hospice m memory_ of Mike McCune. www.shellyodell.com L3.; -:f/ 2 'd/D J.

Kevin Lee Shaull Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 16, passed away Monday, January 29, 2007 in Eaton Rapids. Kevin was born October 21, 1990 in Gaylord, MI. He was a student at Eaton Rapids Public Schools, Wll$ fun loving,

. played hard and loved to make peoI?le smile Preceded in death 'by hls grandfa~ ther, Frank Towers; great-gr~df~ther, . George Wyrick. Kevm IS survived by his mother, R~th Towers; brother, Travis Michael Shaull; and sister, Gigi Shaull, all of Eaton Rapids; grand­parents, Jacque & Randy Towers of Olivet; great-grandmothers, Ruth Towers of TN, and Alma Jean Wyrick of Haslett· uncle Benjamin Towers and f~ly of Charlotte; Percy kitty and Allie puppy. Memorial services will be held 2:00 p.m. Friday, Feb­ruary 2, 2007 at the Shelly­Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to R Place Teen Club, Eaton Rapidsl in memory of Kevin Shaull. 1.. ~ ~ I / ?J l/ 0 I

Willis "Glenn" Ottinger Eaton Rapids, Ml

Surrounded by bis family, Glenn went home to be with the Lord Thursday, Febru­aJY 8, 2007 at age ~· He owned ~perated Cole oni31 Custom Homes~ Glenn en­joyed bowling ud was a real

outdoorsman who loved golfing and fishil!g. He was preceded in death by hls first wife, Janet. Sur­vived by wife Deborah; children, Kelly (Mark) Fenn, Matthew (Jame) Ottinger, Alesha (Michael) Robison; stepchildren, Kristine Jackson, Jennifer (Gabriel) Urivez, Stephanie Dobias; fourteen grand­children; parents, Willis and Beatrice Ottinger; mother-in-law, Patricia Dunn; sister, Gail (Harry) Mallory; brother, Terry (Paulette) Ottinger; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Monday, February 12, 2007 at Chapel In The Pines Funeral 8ome. Interment East Lawn Memory Gardens, Okemos, Michigan.

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KEVIN LEE SHAULL Kevin Lee Schaull of Eaton

Rapids, age I 6, passed away Monday, January 29, 2007 in Eaton Rapids. Kevin was born October 21, 1990 in Gaylord, Ml. He was a student at Eaton Rapids Public Schools, was fun loving, played hard and loved to make people smile. Preceded in death by his grandfather, Frank Towers and great grand­father, George Wyrick.

Kevin is survived by his mother, Ruth Towers; brother, Travis Michael Shaull; and sis­ter, Gigi Shaull, all of Eaton Rapids; grandparents, Jacque & Randy Towers of Olivet; great grandmothers, Ruth Towers of TN, and Alma Jean Wyrick of Haslett; uncle, Benjamin Towers & family of Charlotte; Percy kitty & Allie puppy.

Memorial services were held Friday, February 2, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be

. made to R Place Teen Club Eaton Rapids, in memory of Kevin Shaull. www.shellyo­dell.com. Fl a.,o,fl.ro

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Leon W. Elston, age 75, of Eaton Rapids died unexpectedly on Tuesday, January 30, 2007. He was born March 6; 1931 in Delhi Township, the son of Charles and Beulah (Stanley) Elston. Leon was an Eaton Rapids High School graduate, class of 1949 and a veteran of the· Korean War. He retired in 1995 from General Motors in Electrical Maintenance and was formerly employed with Diamond REO. Preceding him in death wa~ a daughter, Kathy Adams and granddaughter Rebecca Adams in 1982.

He is survivied by his wife of 52 years Renee; 3 daughters, Deb (Jim) Vincent of Mason, Jane (Steve) Wiborn of Eaton Rapids and Karen (Tim) Perkins of Eaton Rapids; 7 grandchil­dren; Brandy Wiborn, Jessica (Steve) Dyer, Corey (Carie) Vincent, Scott Vincent, Brooke (Tony) Norton, Danielle Perkins and Myia Perkins, 6 great grandchildren; Madison Norton, McKenna Vincent, Konner Dyer, Kyle Dyer, Stevie Dyer and Landon Dyer.mother, Beulah Leatherbery of Eaton Rapids; 2 brothers, Charles (Mary) Elswn of Lansing and Keith (Kathy) Elston of Eaton Rapids; sister-in-law, Theda Busley. of Mason and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services were held February 2, 2007 from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. Burial followed in the Rosehill Cemetery in Eaton Rapids: For those desiring memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Rapids Senior C-enter, 201 ·1/2 Hall St. Eaton Rapids 48827 irr memory of Leon W. El ton. Fl a/,Yfw.>

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NAOMI RUTH WILLIAMS . WARD

Naomi Ruth Williams Ward of Camarillo died January 19, 2007, at the age of !03. Naomi was born January 5, 1904, in Eaton County, Ml, and lived in Eaton Rapids until 1996. At that time sbe sold her house on Main Street and moved to California to live with her daughter and son-in-law, Geneva and Harold Ferguson. She resided with them for I 0 I /2 years, spending 3 1/2 months in a care facility just before her death. Naomi enjoyed the California sunshine and was always interested in world affairs and family affairs. She kept in touch with all her family. Almost every summer, Naomi would fly to Gresham, OR, to visit her daughter, Jeanette. Her last flight was at the age of 10 I. She was preced­ed in de:lth by her husband, Lester Ward, to whom she was married for 69 years; son, Neil Ellis Ward; and brothers, Laban, Leo and Cliftqn Williams.

She is survived by her daughters and son, Jeanette Cheatham of Gresham, . OR, Geneva Ferguson of Camarillo and Kenneth Ward of Lexington, S.C. She was Grandma to 14 grandchildren, Great-grandma to 18 and Great great-grandma to four.

Naomi will be cremated and her ashes will be buried in Eaton Rapids, MI. A private memorial service will be held at a Later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Conejo Mountain Funeral Home and Memorial Park, 2052 Howard Road, Camarillo, CA 93012.

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HORACE KEITH WHITTUM Horace Keith Whittum of

Eaton Rapids, age 83, passed away Sunday, February 11, 2007 in Chariotte. Horac~ was born March 15, 1923 in Brookfield Township, the son of Carl and Zenith (Walworth) Whittum. He graduated in the Eaton Rapids High School Class of 1941 . Horace worked with his father on the family farm and retired as a partner of Whittum Gravel Company, both of which were located on Whittum Road . . He plowed snow for over .50 years through­out Eaton Rapids, was wi ama­teur radio operator (WA8CSU), and belonged to several Ford Model A Clubs, owning a num­ber of Model A, B, and one Model C cars . Horace has been known to frequent many a cof­feeshop or two. Preceded in death by his wife, Hildred, (Feb. 14, 2005).

Horace is survived by 2 sons, James W. (Diana) Whittum of Springport and Thomas C. Whittum of Washington D.C.; 2 grandchil­dren, Jim (Rebekah) Whittum, and Jeremy Whittum, all of Eaton Rapids; 4 great grand­children, Cody, Katy, Donovan and Brittany Whittum; sister, Bethel (Roger) Kikendall of Eaton Rapids; 3 nieces, Kathy, Carolyn and Annette.

Memorial services are being planned for a later date .. Arrangements are by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.. www.shellyo­

dell.com F~

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CHARLES ELWIN MOONEY

Charles Elwin Mooney, age 92, died Saturday, February 24, 2007 at the Eaton Rapids Medical Center. He was born on December 19, 1914 in Howe, Indiana the son of George and Inez (Plank) Mooney. Mr. Mooney was a Brighton High School graduate class of 1933 and in 1936 married. Ruth Lehrt1er. They moved to Adrian shortly after World War II start­ed and had lived there for the past 65 years. Charles was a retired Machinist, serving 35 years, with Tecumseh Products

_in Adrian. He and his wife Ruth had been members of the First United Methodist Church in Adrian for the past 60 years. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth in July of 2006; a daughter, Linda Mooney in September of .2006; brother, George Mooney Jr. and sister, Evelyn Gadsen.

He is survived by a son and his wife, Norman and Jc::an Mooney of Eaton Rapids and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, February 28, 2007 at 3:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church at 1245 W. Maple Ave. Adrian, MI 49221. Family will receive friends at' the church one hour prior to service time. Burial will fonow in the Lenawee Hills Memorial Park in Adrian. For those desir­ing memorial contributions may be made to the First United

. Methodist Church in memory of Charles E. Mooney. The fam­ily is being served tlirough the­Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. for on line condolences go to w,ww.skinnerfuneral­home.com. €= l~:>

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Clarence "Clancy" L$J.

"Wimp" Robert Powers ;J/Jt,/O Eaton Rapids, Ml ~

Age 86, passed away Tuesday February 27, 2007 in Lansmg. Clar­ence was born March 2, 1920 in Burlington, Ver­mont, the son of Thomas and Mar­tha (O'Connell)

,. / Powers. He was a graduate of the

Eaton Rapids Class of 1938, served in the U.S. Army in World War II and was a membei: of the Ameri­can Le~on in Florida. Clarence re­tired m 1980 after 40 years of working as a millwright with GM. He was the oWller and operator of Power's Pool Supply in Eaton Rap­ids. Preceded in death by his wife, Alma, in 1996; brothers, Richard Powers and Howard Powers; and sister, Agnes Palk, he is survived by a daughter, Pamela (Jeff) Diet­er; son, John (Bonnie) Powers, all of Eaton Rapids; S grandchildren, Jeff, Steve and Josh Dieter, Branden Powers, · Kalob Wright; and several nieces & nephews. Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Friday, March 2, 2007. at the Shell~~~~ll Funeral Home, 518 S. Eaton Rap-ids with interment following at Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 6-8 p.m. at the Fu­neral Home. For those desiring, memorial contributions may oe made to the VFW National Home for Children in memory of Clar­ence Powers. www.shellyodell. com

KEITH J. SMITH Keith J. Smith of Eato

Rapids, age 82, died Thursday, Feb. 22, 2007 in Lansing. Keith was born June 6, 1924 in Webberville, the son o{ James Lynn and Myrtle (Pardee) Smith. Keith was the owner and operator of Smith 's Jewell' Store in Eaton Rapids for many years, ~ . former 32 Degree member ·of the Eaton Rapids Masonic Lodge #63 F&AM and past president of the Eaton Rapids Kiwanis Club. He was involved in Gideon's International and sang in the Capitol City Chords men.

Survived by his daughter, Linda Strickland of MO; son, Russell (Toni) Smith of Eaton Rapids; 5 grandchildren, Jaye, Andrew and Sammantha Smith? Tyler and Miranda Strickland; sister, Phyllis Anderson of FL; several nieces am! nephews and · an endeared & devoted nephew, Mark Collins. ·

A memorial service was held on Monday, Feb. 26, 2007 at the Eaton Rapids Church of the Nazarene with Rev. Dallas McFarland officiating. Those desiring may make contribu­tions to Gideon's International in memory of Keith Smith. Arrangements are by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids. www.shellyo­dell.com fl~

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WILLIAM FRANKLIN "BILL" HOAG ·SR.

William Franklin "Bill" Hoag Sr., 79, a lifelong resident of Springport, passed away Tuesday, February 20, at his home surrounded by his loving family. Bill was born June 9,

• f927 to William Alonzo and Velma (Myers) Hoag and was

. the oldest of their seven sons. Bill graduated from Springport High School in 1944 and went to work for Lonergan's in Albion. In 1945 he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, staying on active duty until the end of WWII and inactive duty until 1953 teaohing basic engineer­ing for the U.S. Naval Reserves in Jackson. Bill worked at McGraw-Edison in Albion as the Technical Service Supervisor until 1967 when he left to begin his own business, Hoag Enterprises. Bill served as Clarence Township Trustee from 1974 - 2000. He was a member of the Adams Rockey VFW Post #6056 and a very active member of Springport United Methodist Church. Bill was a real people person who enjoyed hunting, fishing, woodworking and especially music. At home on leave from the Navy on August 29, 1945, he married his sweetl)eart, Thelma Marie Slone, who sur­vives tum. Theirs was a life­time love, enjoying over 61 years together.

Along with his wife, Bill was blessed with three children; sons William F. (Connie) Hoag Jr. of Springport, Daniel H. (Nancy) Hoag of Clearwater FL and a daughter, Velma Sue "Suzi" (Charles) Merritt, also of Springport. Also grandsons William F. "Billy" (Becky) Hoag ill and Charles E. "Chuck" Merritt Jr. of Springport; grand­daughters, Wendy L. Hoag of Newport Richey FL, Lori Beth "Steve" Calandra of Eaton Rapids, Jenny Scavelli of Safety Harbor FL and Carisa Marie (Casey) Rawson of Albion; great-grandchildren, Tricia, Katie and Sammy Hoag of Springport, Cole Scavelli, FL, and Jude Rawson; three brothers, Jerry (Kay) Hoag, Richard (Joan) Hoag and Gene (Marion) Hoag, all of Springport; sister-in-law Yvonne Hoag of Lake Odessa and many loving nieces, nephews and special friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, Carl, Wayne and John Hoag and father and mother-in­law, Tracy and Sulla Clifton.

A Funeral Service was held February 23, at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, with Pastor Diane Stone officiating. Interment fol-lowed at Clarence Center Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Springport United Methodist Church. FI~

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Luella Ruth Reynolds Eaton Rapids, Ml . L. Ruth Reynolds, age 76, died Wednesday, February 28, 2007 in Lansing. Born July 18, 1930 in Ma­son, MI, the daughter of Elmer and Letha (Wright) Donaldson. Ruth was a former Ward Clerk and Practical Nurse for the Eaton Rap­fds Community Hospital retiring in 1974. She was preceded in death by her son, James Reynolds; broth­ers·, William, Clyde,· Glenn and Ike Donaldson; and sisters, June Sich and Aileen Roosa. Surviving are her husband of 58 years, E. Ray Reynolds; children, Richard Rey­nolds of Muskegon, Sharon Wiltse of Eaton Rapids, Paul (Ronda) Fotis of Dallas, TX, Debbie (Rus­ty) Simons of Eaton Rapids, foster daughter, JoAnn (Bill) Margetson of Laingsburg; 23 grandclilldren and several great-grandchildren; sister, Mary Jane (Gene) Fifield of Barryton; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral Services will be Saturday, March 3 2007 at 2:00 _p.m. from the sid'nier Fu­neral· Home in Eaton Rapids with the Rev. Scott Boles offfciat­ing. Family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. For online .condo­lences go to www.skinnerfuneral

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Wendell L. Wllbur ~~ ~/o? Eaton Rapids, Ml September 1922-March 2007 Age 84, died Friday, Marfh 2, 2007, in Lansing. Born September 10, 1922, in Perry, MI, the son of Clifford and Pearl (Cole) Wilbur. Wendell was a retired Hammerman for Lindell Prop Forge in Lansing serving nearly 40 years. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lorna, son-in-law, Carroll Richardson, and sister, M~rgaret Wilbur. Surviving are his daughter, Terry Richardson of Charlotte; granddaughter, Lori (Kyle) Fagan of Eaton Rapids; and grandson, Bill (Dana) Richardson of Charlotte; 5 · great­grandchildren, Xanna and Shane Fagan, Chase, Kaylee and Alex Ri­chardson; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be Tuesday, March ~0!007 at 1:00 p.m. from the s er Fu­neraf Home in Eaton Rapids with burial following in the Rosehill Cemetery. Family will re­ceive friends at the funeral home on Monday from 4-7 p.m. For online condolences, go ' to www.skinnerfuneralhome.com.

L Dorris M. Eschtruth Eaton Rapids, Ml Fonnerly of Grand Ledge, Ml Dorris M. Eschtruth, born to Ed­ward and Pearl Greenwood on Oc­tober 24, 1923 in St. Johns, MI, passed away March 2, 2007 at her home. She was a graduate of Rodney B. Wilson High School, St. Johns, MI. Dorris married Walter Eugene Eschtruth on June 21, 1941. In 1947 they move to Grand Ledge, once there they joined the r~and Ledge First United Metilodist Church, where Dorris began teaching Sunday School and taught for many years; an active member of the Methodist Wom­en's Fellowship and served as an Educational Assistant. She was a foriner Cub Scout Den Mother and active in the Brownie and Girl Scout program. She was t. lbllg­time member of the Grand Ledge Camera Club and a member of the Michigan State Holiness Assoc. in Eaton Rapids; enjoyed and spent countless hours domg genealogy, 1>ainting and crafts, traveling to their home in Arizona and summ­er place in Eaton Rapids. Survi­vors include her husband of 65 years, Walter; daughter, Lucille Saling of Eaton llapids; · sons, Douglas (Lynne) of Haslett and Eugene (Ricci) of Grand Ledge; 9 grandchildren; 11 great­grandchildren; and 1 great-great­grandson. She was predeceased by her parents and two infant broth­ers. Funeral services will be held Monday, March ~ 2007 -12:00 Noon at the First United Methodist Church, 411 Harri­son, Grand Lecke, MI 48837, with the Rev. MOily Turner and Tom .Evans officiating. Interment at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Bath, Ml The family will receive friends Sunday 1-3 p.m. at the Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. For those desiring, contri­butions may be made to the First United Methodist Church, Michi­gan State Holiness Assoc. or Great Lakes Hospice in memory of Dor­ris Eschtruth.

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Harvey Leon Swaim o/to/oi Eaton Rapids, Ml · Formerly of Mason Age 95, died March 11, 200?; born

, May 3, 1911 in Toledo, Ohio. Mr. Swaim retired from General Mo­tors in October of 1971. He wa'S preceded in death by his wife, Dol­ly (1994), 2 daughters, Helen Carrolt and JoAnn Barnes and son, Charles Swaim. Surviving are 1 daughter, Joyce Foss of Mason: fi . grandchildren, Carol Freer, Bo110J~,!: Valero, Rose K\lCkmuk. Rbti', Foss, Patricia @ow and DaWCI Carroll; 15 gr=dc~dr~ JS · ITTeat-great-gr dilldren. famet.. ii seivices. be held We4 nesday, March 14, 2:30"A~ .i the Gorsline-R.unclman ~: al Homes, 621 S. Jeffe~ Ma- · son. Interment in Leek Ce!Qttery, · Mason. The family will 'r~­friends at the Chapel Wedne~ 1 hour prior to···the servi~"~ desiring may make conu~ to the Chanty of their cho~ in memory of Mr. Swaim. _ :, ~

Wallace E. ~Jr. ;~Pl LLD UJI Silver Spring, MD formerly of Eaton Rapids, Ml

~~. 1 Age 96, passed

. away Saturday, . • March 10, 2007

· " in Silver Spring, MD. Wallace was born July 4, 1910, in Wichita,

Kansas. He was educated at the University of Missouri, receiving his B.A in 1934 and M.A. in 1937, both in History. He taught at The Chicago Evangelistic Institute (now Yennard College), worked at Marshall Fields and was known as their best clothing salesman~ He was awarded the honorary de~ee of Doctorate of Laws by Milligan College in 1977. Wallace was a great preacher, a "pioneer" in Eu­rope of a new idea of the "Prayer Breakfast," (a gathering of lay and e_pisCOJ?al leaders of all Christian denominations to pray together and discuss Christ in their practi­cal lives), and was involved in many of the political develop­ments of Europe following World War II. He believed in reconcilia­tiop. This was the key word of his life. Wallace reached out to Chris­tians of all denominations, and even Muslims. He believed that Uiere was always an answer in Christ. While livmg in Eaton Rap­ids, MI, Wallace was president of the Eaton Rapids Campnleeting. Preceded in death by his wife, Frances, Wallace is survived by his sons, David Irwin (Barbara) Haines of Havre de Grace, MD, Dr. Philip Conklin (Deana) Haines of Grand Rapids, and -Stephen Wallace Haines of LaVale, MD; grandsons, David Jonathan Haines of New York, Joseph Daniel Haines of Grand Rapids; grand­daug!iters, Michele Ann Haines of Brooklyn, NY, .and Sarah Elizabeth Nicole Haines of Chicago, IL; brother, Henry Lamm (Evelyn) Haines of Portland, OR; sisters, Isabelle Satterthwaite Haines Ferrell of Beaumont, KS and Sarah Ann Haines Adams of Hot Springs, AR; daughters-in-law, Barbara Ann Haines of Havre de Grace, MD and Deana Sandor Haines of Grand Rapids, Ml. A memorial service Will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 17, 2007 at the First United Meth­odist Church, 600 S. Main, Eaton Rapids. The family will re­ceive friends one hour prior to the service. Arrangements are by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids. www.shellyodell.com

Kurt "Dugan" Engler of M:lson, age 34, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, March 4, 2007 from natural causes. He was born on March 30, 1972 in Rochester, MI to Kurt D. and Ella P. (Weddington) Engler. He is survived by wife, Gina, and would . have celebrated seven wonderful years on April 27, 2007. He leaves behind two loving Weimaraners, Willow and Aspen. Kurt was an officer with the City of Jackson Police Department since April 1999.

He is also survived by: grandmother, Milly (Johnson) Engler of Tustin, MI; father and mother, Kurt and Ella Engler of Lewiston, MI; brother, Don (Kathy) Wilson and their chil­dren, Stephanie, Christ9pher, SarahJane, and Daniel of Livermore, CA~ sister, ~illy

(Mike) King and their children, Heather and Jonathon of Panama City, FL; sister, Sally (Jeff) Shull, their children, Megan, Nic!)le, Rebecca, and Gretchen of Ada, MI; sister, Ginny (Brad) Widger, their c:hil­dren, Grant and Lauren of New Hudson, MI; sister,- Vicky (David) Doubleday, their chil­dren, Erin and Richard of Jupiter, FL; sister, Shelley (Doug) Palmer, their children, Courtney, OanieUe, and Spencer of Freeport, MI; broth­er, Karl (Julie) r:ngler, their children, Jack and Grace of Grand Ledge, MI; brother-in­law anc! sister-in-law, Manuel and Angel Alfaro, their chil­dren, Leah (god-daughter) and Chris Felzke of Lansing, MI; brother-in-law and sister-in­law, Mike and Anna Rigg of Holt, MI; sister-in-law, Mary Alfaro of Eaton Rapids, MI; and father~in-law and mother­in-law, Tony and Margi Alfaro of Eaton Rapids, MI. He was preceded in death by grandfa­ther, Adolph Engler of Tustin, MI; grandfather and grand­motheJ, Addi~n and Grace Wed~n of. West Liberty, KY. ff! also leaves behind myriad friends and coworkers that he cared for deeply. Dugan loved his family, fishing, hunt­ing, traveling, and the beauty of nature,. but above all he cher­ished his wife and dogs.

A funeral service was held on Saturday, March 10, 2007 at Emanuel First Evangelical Lutheran Church at 1001 N. Capitol, Lansing, MI with the Rev. Norman Burger of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church officiating. In lieu of flowers , memori al contribu­tions may be made to the Michigan Weimaraner Rescue, Inc., 2886 Hagadorn Rd., Mason, MI 48854, in memory of Dugan. He touched many lives and will be missed, yet fond ly remembered by all. Fw~ 3 1 . /07.

DAVID EDWIN GATES Dwid Edwin Gates, age 70,

of Eaton Rapids died Friday, March 9, 2007 in Bandera) TX. He was born January l, 1937 to Frank and Esther Gates in Gaylord, MI. David was retired from GM after 42 years of service. Dave enjoyed spend­ing time with his family, as well as traveling. He was pre­ceded in death by both parents, his sister, Nancy (Gates) Young; two brothers, Charles and Ray Gates and his grand­son, Jakob Gates.

He is survived by his wife, Carol (Jedele) Gates; his chil­dren, Sheryl (Jim) Ayers of Onondaga, Brett Gates of Eaton Rapids, Kristen (Brian) Fell of Onondaga; his grand­children, Ehricka, Cody, James, Zachary and Kylea and on~ great-grandson, Damion.

A memorial service is being held on Saturday, March 24, 2007 at Holt Baptist Church at 12:00 noon, the family will greet friends at ll:OO a.m. F/cwJUJ, · 3 / ;.}D /o'J

DENNIS (DENNY) P. BROWN

Dennis (Denny) P. Brown, born in Albion, MI on June 15 1936, died in Tavares, FL o~ March 9, 2007. Denny graduat­ed from. Eaton Rapids High • School and spent 8 years in the Air Force then worked full time for the Michigan National Guard for 20 years. Denny also served as Commander and held other offices for the American Legion Post 15. He was preced-ed in death by his mother, Thelma Stevens; step-father, Robert Stevens; father, Harry Brown; step-mother, Donna Brown; brothers, Lawrence (Larry) Brown and Ronald (Ronnie) Brown.

He is survived by his wife, Constance (Connie) Brown; two daughters, Trudy Kopyc of West Gardiner, Maine, Traci Brown of Augusta, Maine; 3 brothers, Dale (Eva) Brown of FL, Donald Brown of FL Robert (Doris) Brown of Kentucky; I sister, Ruth (Ken) Cortright of Eaton Rapids; 7 grandsons and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held in Lansing on Friday, March

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SAMUEL WAYNE BYER Samuel Wayne Byer, age

73 of Holt and formerly of Eaton Rapids died Monday, March 12, 2007 following a terminal illness. Samuel was born October 21 , 1933 in Eaton Rapid& the son of Samuel Martin and Bertha Mae (Simpson) Byer. Sam was a graduate of Eaton Rapids High School and served ·and retired from the United States Air Force as an Officer. He worked for the State of Michigan and retired as Director of Data Devefopment. Sam was a member of the "First United Methodist Church, a former member of the Eaton Rapids Little Theatre and .a former member of the Eaton Rapids Barber Shop Quartet. Preceding him in death were his wife Julia (Norris) Byer; son, Christopher Byer; and 6 brothers and sisters. . Surviving are 3 sons, Jeff Byer of Holt, Craig (Tomoko) Byer of Colurribus, OH., and Scott (Fonda) Byer . of Springport; daughter, in-law, Tami Byer of Holt; 7 grandchil­dren and 2 great grandchi ldren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held friday, March 16, 2007 from the 'First United Methodist Church in Eaton Rapids. Burial followed in the Rosehill Cemetery. The family was served by the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring memorial contributions may be made to the First United Metf!odist Church in memory of Samuel Wayne Byer. For online condolences and to view the video tribute · go to www.skinnerfuneralhome.com VI a-:iil.l(). 3 ;>O/ 0'7

CONNIE M. BRASS­SPADE

Connie M. Brass-Spade of Lansing, formerly of Eaton Rapids, age 47, died Monday, March 12, 2001 in Lansing. Connie was born October 5, 1959 in Eaton Rapids.

Surviving are. her parents, Donna and Bud Ramey of Eaton Rapids; Spouse, Gary Spade of Lansing; 3 children, Cynthia Marie Spade, Erica Lynn Spade, Gary Lynn Spade, Jr. all of Lansing; 2 grandchi~ dren,, Anthony Robert Shearer, Andrea Annmarie Shearer; brother, Troy .(Lorraine) Ramey of Fowlerville; 2 sisters, Kathleen Nevins of Eaton Rapid~. · Kimberley K. (Chad) Porter of Bath; a1ld 5 nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Thursday, March 15, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids and interment followed at Rosehill Cemetery www.shellyodell.com r/Cldu..d.

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CARL W. DAVISON Carl W. Davison of Jackson,

fomally of Eaton Rapids, passed away in the presence of his family and Great Lakes Hospice on Wednesday, March 14, 2007 at the age of 86. Carl retired from Hayes-Albion Corporation after 30 years of service, wa~ a Navy Veteran of World War II, an avid outdoors­man, and a well known fisher­man. He also enjoyed golfing. He was preceded in death by his two brothers, Donald and Robert; two sisters, Genevieve and Kathryn.

He is survived by four sons, Roger Davison of Wichita Falls, TX, Bruce (Sheila) Davison of Lake Somerset, Craig (Diana) Davison of Jackson, Scott (Denise) Davison of Jackson; LO grandchildren; 3 great­grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service was held on March 17, 2007 at the Fellowhip Baptist Church, Clarklake, MI, with Pastor Daniel White officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to F~llo.wsbip Baptist Church, they would be appreci­ated. Fellowship B~ti.s t Church, 3200 Reed ·Rd.

- Clarklake, MI 49234. Arrangements by Desnoyer Funeral Home of M<:kson. F ja.a,1u4 3/"JOI01

LSJ 3/;;o/ol Elizabeth "Betty" Louise White Eaton Rapids, Ml

Ase 81, leaving frailty, family and friends behind, Elizabeth Louise White finished her gracious life among us on Sunday, March 18, 2007. No lon_ger limited by what is seen, Betty hves on in God's pres­ence, while waiting for her loved ones to follow. Entering the busy world of Fredrick and Henrietta Worgul on December 8, 1925, she, along with 11 siblings, filled their Canonsburg, PA home with action, music, and all the thin_gs children do. She was preceded m death by her brothers, Ernest, John, Fredrick "Fritz", Edward, Donald and sisters, Margaret Gray and Martha Towar. Stories will be told about her life when a child, a young bride to Harold White (of Eaton Ra_pids), a mother to David <(iilelanie) Wbite of Lansing. She is also survived by sisters, Henrietta Prether of Haslett, Dorothy Kosht of Lansing; many nieces, nephews, grand-neices, and grand-nephews who were blessed by her generous love, so typical of who she was. Her singing, her laughter, her Skip-Bo maneuvers, and her Scrabble fame will revisit many. And, of course, scents of pastries and pies will remind us of dear Betty. She touched and calmed our lives in so many ways. After fin­ishing Canonsburg School and marrying Harold, Betty worked (and loved it) among the students at The Michigan School for the Blind for more than 20 years. Ac­tively involved with Concerned Women of America, she traveled occasionally to Washington, D.C. for conferences. She also traveled to Europe with Harold, especially enjoying Scotland and Switzer­land. Her life was Cull.i her touch deep, and her love was unforgetta­ble. Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 21, 2007 at the Columbia Road Baptist Church, 5000 W. Columbia, Ma­son, with interment following at Munger Cemetery, Eaton Rapids. The family will receive family and friends on Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Shelly-Odell Funer­al Home, 518 S. Mam, Eaton Rap­ids. Those desirins may make me­morial contributions to either Gideon's International or Colum­bia Road Baptist Church in memo­ry of Elizabeth White. www.shellyodell.com

ROBERT V. RUSSELL Robert V. Russell, age 58,

passed away March 12, 2007. Bob was born in Carbsle, PA, and lived in Sahuarita for the past 12 years. He served in Vietnam in the U.S. Air Force and was a former member Q.f the American Legion. For the last nine years, Bob. ~?S employed by La Posada in.'the mainte­nance department. He enjoyed his family, the outdoors, n·ature, off-road adventures, hiking, his dogs, his roses, the Arizona Wildcats and the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Betty Russell.

He is survived by his loving . wife Judy Squires Russell; daughter Tammi (Loren) Wessel; son David (Angela) Russell; nine grandchildren; brother Mike (Barb) Russell; sister-and-brother-in-Jaw Ktithy Squires and Steve (Nadine) Squires; and many nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.

A celebration of both Bob's life and his mother-in-law's, Doris (Squires) Kimmel, was held on Friday, March 23, 2007 at the American Legion Post 66 in Sahuarita. Remembrances can be f!lade to the An.imal League of Green Valley or the charity of your choice.

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DORIS MAY KIMMEL Doris May Kimmel, age 80,

passed away March 20, 2007, at her home in · Sahuarita. Formerly from Eaton Rapids and Lake Odessa, Ml, Doris has . lived in the Green Valley/Sahuarita area for the past 18 years. She had been a member of the English Club, the American Legion Auxiliary and the Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel. She was born in London in 1926. to Albert ;ma Rose Dunn, Doris was one of 13 children. She moved to the United States in 1946 as a war bride to James Squires, who preced\:d her in death in 1951. Doris was a longtime resident of Michigan, working in the public school system in Eaton Rapids for

1 more than 20 years. She mar­ried Bob Kimmel in 1967 and spent winters in Arizona until becoming a full-time resident in 1989. She enjoyed her family, bowling and knitting. Doris was preceded in death by her hus­band, Bob .Kimmel, in 1988.

She is survived by children; Kathy Squires, Steve (Nadine) Squires, and Judy (and the late Robert Russell) Squires; her step-children, Stan (Sue) Kimmel, Dick (Sharon) Kimmel, Harold Kimmel and Pat Hearld ; 12 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life was held for both Doris and her son­i n-law Bob Russell on March 23, 2007 at the American Legion Post fi6 in Sahuarita. Remembrances can be made to Odyssey Hospice, the American Cancer Society or a charity of

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CLEO B. (HARPER) HOWER'(.WILLIS

· Cleo S .(.flatper). Howery Willis, age 86 bf Charlotte for­merly of ·~~ Rapids and Bradenton, FL, died Wednesday, March 28, 2007 in Charlotte. She was born March 29, 1920 in Jackson, MI. the daughter of Clifford and Pearl Alice (Snow) Harper. Mrs. Willis was an Eaton Rapids High School graduate class of 1938. She was formerly employed with Michigan Bell Telephone in Charlotte, Ingham Medical Hospital in Lansing and retired after 20 years with Wal mart in Bradenton, FL. Mrs. Willis was preceded in death by hel'. husbands, Clare Howery in 1971 and Ervin Willis in 1983; son, Tom Howery in 1969 and infant son, Clifford ,Clare Howery.

Surviving are 2 daughters, Barbara (Clarence) Brown of Cedar Falls, Iowa and Elaine (Richard) Woodman of Charlotte· 9 grandchildren, Mark Brown' Stasi Brown, Angela Woodman: Deeanna Woodman, Nicholas Woodman, Richard Woodman Jr., Trina Butler, Karen ~owery and Carol I:Iowery; 6 great grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Monday, April 2, 2007 at 3:00 p.m. from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids with burial fbllowing in the Brickyard.Cemetery. For those desiring memorial contributions may , h" made to the Eaton Corn' ) .1 fiumane Society in me[l)..b:y,o'r Cleo B. Willis. Fo oilhne ~vndolances go to

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!-SJ 'l/l.//D7 Ruth Arlene Benward Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 79, passed awar. Monday, April 2, 2007 m Lansing, Michi­gan. Ruth was born February 15, 1928 in Albion Michigan, th~ daughter of Clar­ence and Violet (Thompson)

. · Shannon. An ac-tive member of her local church Gospel Assembly, Ruth loved spending t~e with her g;i.:andchil­d!~n and en1oyed her daily social visits at McDonald's in Eaton Rap­ids. Preceded in death by her hus­band, Harold Benward on Decem­ber 6, 2005; her son, Philip James Benward on December 14 2005· and two brothers, Charles ~d Ri~ chard Shannon. Ruth is survived by her daughter, Bonnie (Greg) Cox of Eaton Rapids; her son, Jay (Sandy). Benward of Potterville; 9 grandchildren; 15 great­grandchildren; her brother, David L. Shannon of Grand Rapids· 4 sis­~ers, D,or<?thy Simmons of' Read­mg, Michigan, Leona Clougherty of Marshall, Leot(l Patton of Mar­sh~, Mary Lou Lutz of Phoenix, Arizona; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held 12:00 Noon on Thurs­day, April S, 2007 at the Shelly­Odell Funeral Home, 518 s. Main, Eaton Rapids. Graveside

. se~ices will f~llow at 3:00 p.m. at Albion ¥emo!1al Gardens, Albion. The family will receive family and friends on Wednesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Funeral Home. www.shell odell.com

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Eva Ward McKim Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 93, passed awax Sunday, April 1, 2007 at her home. Eva was born May 9, 1913 in Lansing, MI, the daughter of Ernest Herschel and Valerie Belle (Holley) Ward. She was proud of

belonging to a pioneer Lansing family, which settled in the area about 1842. She was a 1931 gradu­ate of Lansing Central High School, and a 1936 graduate of Michigan State College. Eva was a lifelong Spartan supporter and was recently featured on a local radio proram as "Grandma Greenblood . She loved swimming and was on swimming teams in

l'unior hi&h, high school, and col­ege. Durm~ her 20-year teachfog career, whjch began in Portland and ended in Eaton Rapids, she tau$ht homemaking to junior high seruor hi~ and adult night schooi students. She was a charter mem­ber of Eaton Rapids AAUW, life member of Eastern Star, active in Alpha Gamma Delta and past president of the Lansing Alumnae chapter. Eva was an officer in the Eaton Rapids Retired Teachers ~ssociation and Eaton County Re­tired School Personnel Associa­tion, served 2 terms on the Eaton Rapids Community Chest, 3 terms on Eaton Rapids Li~rary Board, and was a volunteer m the Eaton Rapids Community Hospital gift shop. She delivered Meals on Wheels, drove patients for kidney dialysis, was a Girl Scout organizer/leader in Sandusky, MI ana Eaton Rapids, and was a mem­ber of Greenpeace, being especial­ly concerned with the conserva­tion of American wildlife and nat­ural resources. Her hobbies in­clude.cl knitting, croc~eting, wood- ~ working, metal working, oil paint­ing, and target shooting. She was ~ ~ccomplished pllo~ographer, wmnmg several awards m mterna­tional comJ,>etitions. Eva had sev­~ral collections of antiques, rang­mg from eye cups to com and po­tato planters, and including a 1931 Model A Ford, which she helped restore, and a 1965 red Mustang convertible. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church . in Eaton Rapids. Eva enjoyed trav­eling and was a member of two travel clubs, visiting all 50 states and all Canadian provinces, usual­ly with a motor-home. She also traveled to Australia, New Zea­land, Northern Europe, and Eng­land. For some years she raised and sold apricot poodles, but her companion to the erid was a little poodle named Buffy. that came to her as a stray. Preceded in death by her h-qsband, Earl in 1976; 2nd husband, Le~s Knaggs in 1996; brother, E. Clmton Ward in 1999· sister, Edna Ward in 1917; and' great-grandson, Michael James Tinning in 1993. Eva is survived by three daughters, Sara (Sam) Oakland of Portland, OR, Martha (Bill) Marshall of Lansing, and Valera (JefO Hartnell of Westerville, OH; stepchildren, Anne (Ron) Bancroft of Buckley, David (Connie) Knaggs of East Lansing, Robert (Mirlena) Knaggs of Clarkston; 7 grandchildren, An­dy Oakland, Sasha (Michael) Tin­nmg, David (Sarah) Marshall, Col­leen (Eric) Reeve, Ben (Molly) Hartnell, Nate (Katy) Hartnell, Sarah (Joey) Ortiz; 10 great­grandchildren; sisters, Amy Wil­son and Valerie Winans, tioth of Lansing; 2 sisters-in-law, Beverly Ward ofLansing and Alice McKim of Ypsilanti; brother-in-law, George (Jean) McKim of FL; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 7, 2007 at the Shelly-Oaell Funer­al Home, 518 s. Main, Eaton Rapids with interment following at Rosehill Cemetery. The family will receive friends and family on Friday from 6-8 p.m. at the Funeral Home. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Capital Area Humane Society in memory of Eva Ward McKim. www.shellyodell.com

RUTH ARL,ENE BENWARD

Ruth Arlene Benward of Eaton Rapids, age 79, ~ away Monday, April 2, 2007 il1 Lansing; Michig RQltl was born February ~ j in Albion, Michigan, tlie:tfaugJiter of Clarence and Violet (Thompson) Shannon. An active member of her local church, Gospel Assembly, Rllth loved spei\ding time with her grandchildren and enjoyed her daily . social v1s1ts at McDonald's in Eaton Rapids. Preceded in aeath by her hus­band, Harold Benward on December 6, 2005; . her son, Philip James Benward on December 14, 2005; and two brothers; Charles and Richard Sharillon.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Bonnie (Greg) Cox of Eaton Rapids; her son, Jay (Sandy) Benward of Potterville; 9 grandchildren; 15 great­grandchildren; her brother, David L. Shannon of Grand Rapids; 4 sisters, Dorothy Simmons of Reading, Michigan, Leona Clougherty of Marshall, Leota Patton of Marshall, Mary Lou Lutz of Phoenix, Arizona; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, April 5, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids. Graveside services followed at Albion Memorial Gardens, Albion. www.shelly.odell.com Flaa..A-UL 'I /10/t'7

ETHEL BESSIE LUNG Ethel Bessie Lung, age ,91 ,

ofEaton Rapids diedThuqday, April 5, '2007 at the Eaton Community Hospice in Charlotte. She was born March 16, 1916 in Sale~ 1rkansas, the daughter of Henry and Clara (McGonigal) Stuart. Ethel married Alvin Lung on September 7, 1943 while Alvin was in the Military Service. Following the War he worked for Studabaker in Southbend and after their closing worked for General Motors and moved to Eaton Rapids. Ethel enjoyed gardening was a good cook and loved making quilts. Preceding her in death were her husband; Alvin on July 16, 1998 and her daughter, Beverly Woods on March 2, 2004.

She is survived by her grandson, Scott (Rachelle) Owen of Eaton Rapids; 2 great­grandsons, Jesse and Joshua Owen; son-in-law, Chuck Woods of Eaton Rapids, and several nieces ·and nephews.

Graveside services were held on April 9, 2007 at the · Rosehilr «::emetery in Eaton Rapids with the Rev. John Metcalf · 1Jf lhfl First Congregationaf' Church offici- · ating. . For those ,desiring memorial contn"&iilons may be made to the~ Hospice at 261S:: • Charlotte, MI 48813.·'*'lii!'.t;.W.? ly is being served througft e Skinner Funeral Home in Rapids.F~o

&.\-to- i

EVA WARD MCKIM Eva Ward Mc.Kim of Eaton

Rapids, age 93, passed" away· Sunday, April I, 2007 at her home. Eva was born May 9, , 1913 in Lansing, MI, the daughter of Ernest H

0

erschel and Valerie Belle (Holley) Ward. She was proud of belonging to a pioneer Lansing family, which settled in the area about 1842. She was a 1931 graduate of Lansihg Central High School, and a 1936 gradu­ate of Michigan State College. Eva was a lifelong Spartan sup­porter and was recently fea­tured on a. local radio program as "Grandma Greenblood". She loved swimming and was on swimming teams in junior high, high school, and college. During her 20-year teaching career, which began in Portland and ended in Eaton Rapids, she taught homemaking to junior high, senior high, and adult night school students. She was a charter member of Eaton Rapids AAUW, life member of Eastern Star, active in Alpha 1Garnrna Delta and past presi­' ient of the Lansing Alumnae chapter. Eva was an officer in I he Eaton Rapids Retired Teachers Association and Eaton County Retired School Personnel Association, served 2 terms on the Eaton Rapids CommWlity Chest, 3 terms on Eaton Rapids

. Library Board, and was a vol~ unteer in the Eaton Rapids Community Hospital gift shop.

· She delivered Meals on Wheels, drove patients for kidney dialysis, was a Girl Scout organizer/leader in Sandusky, MI and Eaton Rapids, and was a member of Greenpeace, being especially concerned with the conserva­tion of American wildlife and natural resources. Her hobbies included knitting, crocheting, woodworking, metal working, oil painting, and target shoot­ing. She was an accomplished

photographer, winning several awards in international compe­titions. Eva had several collec­tions of antiques, ranging from eye cups to corn and potato planters, and including a 1931 Model A Ford, which she helped restore, and a 1965 red Mustang convertible. She was a member of the First United Met~odist Church in Eaton Rapids. Eva enjoyed traveling and was a member of two trav­el clubs, visiting all 50 states ·.and all Canadian. provinces, usually with a motor-home. he also traveled to Australia, New Zealand, Northern Europe, and England. "For some years she raised and sold apricot poodles, but her companion to the end was a little poodle named Buffy that came to her as a stray. Preceded in death by her hus­band, Earl in 1976; 2nd hus­band, Lewis Knaggs in 1996; brother, E. Clinton Ward in 1

; J,' 1999; sister, Edna Ward in ! r 1917; and great grandson, Michael James Tinning in 1993, '

Eva i survived by three daughters, Sara (Sam) Oakland of Portland, OR, Martha (Bill) Marshall ofLansing, and Valera (Jeft) Hartnell of Westerville, OH; step children, Anne (Ron) Bancroft of Buckley, David (<:;onnie) Knaggs of East Lansing, Robert (Mirlena) Knaggs of Clarkston; 7 grand­children, Andy Oakland, Sasha (Michael) Tinning, David (Sarah) Marshall, Colleen (Eric) Reeve, Ben (Molly) Hartnell, Nate (Katy) Hartnell, Sarah (Joey) Ortiz; 10 great grandchildren; sisters, Amy Wilson and Valerie Winans, both of Lansing; 2 sisters-in­law, Beverly Ward of Lansing and Alice McKim of Ypsilanti; brother-in-law, George (Jean) . McKim of Fl.; and many nieces and nephews.·.

Funeral ·services were held Saturday, April 7, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids and interment followed at Rosehill Cemet;ry. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Capital Area Humane Society in ntemory of Eva Ward McKim. www.shellyodell .com

~ '-l/10/or

DORA "DORIE" I. KEELER

Dor.a "Dorie" I. Keeler of EatQf'l Rapids, ~~ ·85, passed away Saturc:fay: April 14, 2007 in Lansing. Dorie was born September 4, 1921 in Wheeling, West Virginia, the daughter of Roy and Irene Black. S~e was the first Pharmacy Tech at Sparrow Hospital and retired in 1985 after 33 years of service. Dorie was a member of the National Muzzleloading Association. Preceded in death by her husband, Robert L. Keeler and sister, Naomi Cotton.

She is survived by her dearest friend and "sister" of 40-plus years, Beulah (Ron) Norris of Lansing and their family, Mike (Jackie) Allred of Crystal, Monte (Brenda) Allred of Greenville, Ronda (Dave) Norris of Stanton; brother-in-law, Jim Cotton of Kent, OH; numerous nieces, nephews and "little ones".

Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 17, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids, with interment following at Greenwood Cemetery in Ingham County. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service. A special thanks to her neighbors, friends and Meals On Wheels for all of their help . . Those desiring may make memorial contributions to Tri­County Meals On Wheels in memory of Dorie Keeler. www.shellyodell.com.

f"~ t..J I 11 /07

D I "D . "K i.:s ora . one eeler 1 Eaton Rapids, Ml .._, 11 S/ C7

Age 85, passed awar. Saturday, April 14, 2007 in Lansing. Dorie was born September 4 1921 in Wheel~ ing, West Vir­ginia, the daugh­ter of R6y~ and Irene Black. She was the

first J?hannacy Tech at Sparrow Hospital and retired in 1985 after 33 years of service. Dorie was a member of the National Muzzleloadllu? , Association. Pre­ceded in deatli by her husband Rober~ L. Keeler and sister: Naomi Cotton, she is survived by her dearest friend and "sister" of 4~-plus years, Beulah (R~n) No1!1s of Lansing and their family, Mike (Jackie) Allred of Crystal, Monte (Brenda) Allred of Greenville Ronda (Dave) Norris of Stanton'. brother-in-law, Jim Cotton of Kent, OH; and numerous nieces nephews ~d "little ones." Fu~ neral sel'Vlces will be held 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, A_pril 17 2007 at the Shelly-Ocfell Fu~ neral Home, SIS s. Main Eaton. Rapids, with "1terment followmg at Greenwood Ceme­tery, Ingham County. Visitation will _be for one ~our _prior to the sei;vice. A IJ!llCial thanks to her neighbors,, mends and Meals On Wheels tor all of tbeir help Those . desiring may malC~ memorial contnoutions to Tri­County Meals On Wheels in memory of Dorie Keeler. www.shellyOdell.com

/

JAMES .HOUSTON IVEY Ill

James Houston Ivey III of East Lansing, Ml, age 70, died April 16, 2007. He was born August 9, 1936 in Troy, AL to James H. · 1vey, Jr. and Ida Glover Cross. Jim was my. Jover, best frit:nd, comforter in times of trouble. He was a true intellect and gentleman. He was respected by all who knew him for his integrity, compassion and humor. He enjoyed reading and swimming.

He is survived by his wife of 16 years, Joena; daughters, Elizabeth Bland Ivey Piper, Kimberly Jean Ivey, Adrienne Simone Ivey; sons, James Houston Ivey IV; step-daughter, Philena Beth Foote Norton; step-son, Richard John Smith; grandchildren, Joshua Ivey, Ashleigh Hampton, Courtney Ivey, Katelyn l".ey and Matthew John Norton; sister, Mary Jean Simmons.

Funeral services were held Friday, April 20, at the Gorsline-Runciman Funeral Homes, 1730 E. Grand River Avenue, East Lansing with the Rev. Albert Simmons, officiat­ing. Tho e desiring may make contributions to theit favorite charity in memQry of Mr. Ivey. ~\~~ 'LJ.l.~lol

Richard Charles Coulon Eaton Rapids, Ml

Jack L. Dickerson Eaton Rapids, Ml .

Russell Dale Winslow Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 79, passed away

:::::::::::Saturday, April 28,

Age 76, passed e 74, passed 2007. He was awax on Friday, ·~ay Saturday, born May 27, Apnl 27, 2007 M>ril 28, 2007 1927 m Alma, Michigan, the son to be with his m Eaton Rap- of Russell K and Kittie M Lord and Sav- ids. Jack was (Caruss> Winslow. Russeli ior, Jesus born February served m the U.S. Air Force for Christ. He was 24, 1933 in 4 years and was stationed in Ja-bom in Adrian, Potterville, MI, pan during .the Korean War. In

MI on June 9, 1930 the son the son of Silas L~ and Ber- 1984, he retired ·from the Motor George and Bernice (Zemlo) II · k • Wh l C _.r. Coulon deceased. Dick ~adua.t- nice Be e (Lyons Die erson- ~e orp. 11Iter 40 years of ed fro~ Adrian High School m Taylor. He was a veteran of the service. He also farmed for over 1948 where he was named U.S. Army, serving in the Kore- 50 years.and lived on the family

· h s h l Athlete of an War, and a member of VFW c.ente~al Farm. Sutviving are Adrian Hig c 00 p " 2406 · Ch 1 J k his wil'.e of 52· .i.ears, Nori'ne·, 2 the Year. He grad~ated. fro!D o:.t m ar otte. ac re- 11 ,

Michigan State University m tired as Dock Controller for GM sons, Dan E. (Sharlene) Winslow 1952 and later did post graduate Parts Wareho~ after 31 years of. Eaton Rapids, Don c. studies at Illj.nois Institute. of of service, ~l his life.fassi<?n WlilSlow of Evanston, IL; daugh-Technology. Aftet graduat!on, was farming. He was an aVId ter~ Donna E. (Mike) Pettit of Dick was appointed second lieu- bowler and President of Top of OVI~, MI; 3 grandchildren, Kelly tenant .Jn the U.S. Army and the Hill Bowling League in Char- ~arie, Troy "Bubba" and served with distinction m the lotte. Preceded in death by his Kimberly Winslow; 2 step-Korean War and was dis~harg~d three sisters, Vivian, Norma and grandsons, Dennis, Jr. (Karen) as a captain. Upon bemg dis- Helen, Jae-~.~ 'ved by his and John .<Jennifer) Desgran~e; charged, he joined Consume~s wife of 52 t. Dicker- and . a sister, Anne <DaVId) Power as a graduate student m son; 4 c , Debbie (Ri- Cantme of Eaton Ra~ids. Pri-training, and retired as Corpo- chard) Dre13ot:'<>f Virginia, J~k vate graveside services will rate Senior Gas Consultant (Gas (Montse) DfCierSon of Virgmfu, be held. Arrangements are by Utilization) after 39 years of Shelly • Waidelicli of the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home service. Dick was also. v.ery ac- Eaton • Richard Dickei- Thos. e desirin. g may make me~ tive in numerous c1v1c and ~- and al b church activities. He served as son of Eato• Dilpids; 13 gr - mo~ con~i utions to your fa-the Lansing President of the In- children; ~ treat-grandchildren; vonte charity in memory of Rus-

. Cl b M brother, Don (Sandra) Taylor of sell Dale Winslow dustrial Executives u ; ason Eaton Rapids; brother-m-law, www.shellyodell.com .~ S~ · City Councilman and Mayo~ D Mill f p rvill -i - 30- 01 Pro-Tero; President of the.N~V)S on er o otte e; ~~r-Lake Home Owners Assoc1atiop; al nieces and nephews; ancrlils Victor George Heal, Sr. VFW All State Post Commander "best friend" Ben1aniin. Fu:Deral for the state of Michigan; Mason services will be held 200p.m. Eaton Rapids, Ml Kiwanis Club; and n~e:ous Wednesday, May 2, 200f at Age 81, passed away Friday, other service orgaruzat1on.s. the Wesleyan Church, 6044 April 27, 2007 in Charlotte. Vic-Dick was also a member of the S. Clinton Trail, Eaton lblp- tor was born July 9, 1925 in First Baptist Church of Eaton ids, with interment to follow at Davison, MI, the son 0£ George Rapids, where he foun~ great Brickyard Cemetery, Eaton Rap- and Adaline Adelia (Hall) Heal. salvation. He was also preceded ids. 'rhe familr, will receive He retired in 1987 after 17 years in death by his wife, Beverly friends and family on Tuesday with the Department of Trans-Coulon in 2005, and aunts and from 2-4 and 6~8 p.m. at the portation, State of Michi~· an. uncles Mike and Stan Zemlo, Shelly-Odell · Funeral Home, 518 j Viet"•' was pa•t presi'dent o the Alfred' Coulon, all of Adrian. He '"' iii " is survived by his daughte~, Ann ~ir~~~~~t~~~~~~~ec~~: ~~~u~~~h:n~fo~~ (Len) Bean of East Lansing; 1 tribq~ons to the Eaton Rapids volU'lffeer for the American Red sons, Craig (Robbyn) . 0k Wesleyart C~urch in memory of Cross for many years. He is sur-Noblesville, IN and Ric Jack Dickerson. www.shelly vived by his wife of 58 years, (Sherri) of Cummings, GA; 8 odell.com L ~J .1 -3o· -bl Lois E. (Williams); 4 children, grandchildren and .1 ~eat- 'i v· G (Ka h ) al f grandchild; 6 stepchildrelli 16 ictor . t ,y He I n 0 step~andchildren; ~ -~h t- Albion. Peggy (Bob) Smith of grandchildren; an :" ~ther, Munith, Penny Williams of Jack-Donald Coulon of Amana, IA. son, Patty (Ken) Brier of Sterling Funeral services will be Heights; 8 grandchildren; 11 Tuesday, May 1~7 at the great-grandchildren; brother, First Baj)tist C 9220 Gene (Pearl) Heal of Davison; Kfnnevllle ltd. Rapids sister, Joan Coe of Crystal; sev-at 11:00 a.m. Burial will fo1lo~ eral nieces and nephews; and 2 at the Rosehll! C~etery, m dogs, ~tormy and Gunner. Me-Eaton Rapids with Fttll Military monai services will be held Honors provided by the ~ 2:00 p.m. Monday, April 30, Post #6986 Onondla. Famµy 2007 at the Eaton Rapids will receive friend~ the Skin- Wesleyan Church, 6044 S. ner Funeral Home i aton Rap- Clinton Trail, Eaton Rapids. ids on Monday eve~g f~om ?-9 Arrangements are by the Slielly-p.m. and 1 hour pnor to servi~e Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Ra:Ei-time at the church. Memo~1al gifts may be made to the Frrst ids. Those desi!lllg may m e Baptist Church. or the u of ¥ memorial contributions to the Cancer Center m Memory of~- Eaton CoD!JP\lllity Hp. in chard c. Coulon. For o.nline ......_ _______ ==~ memory of Victor G. Sr.

-----------===-condolences go to www.skinner www.sheilyodell.conf'~ _ 0 .-o• eralhome.com. 1 S-.i-----

VIOLETTA "VI" FINLEY Violetta "VI" Finley of

Eaton Rapids, age 72, passed away Monday, April 16, 2007 in Lansing. Vi was born July 25, 1934 in Topeka, KS. Vi was chosen as plant #3's Employee of the Month in December 1988 at Eaton Stamping. She worked for 2 . years in ihe late 70's and then · again in 1983 until she retired in 1999 after 21 years 9f serv­ice. Vi alway11 ..went in early, stayed late and wore a smile as she worked as a dipper in the paint and ma.chining area and loved her work. Vi ~Ways help~d new. employees and cared for. others around her. She will be missed deeply and the families love and lhoughts will be with her forever, God bless. Preceded in death by her grandson, Anthony Dumas in 2000.

She is survived by two daughters, Shirley "Gerb" Finley of Hollywood, FL, Margaret "Maggie" Owens of Fefqniak Springs, FL; two

:

Rick Cady of TX and .Finley of FL; 11 grand­en; 4 great grandchil-

6n; and two sisters, Mary ~.ales of KS, and Betty

sma of MO. There will be to services at this time.

Memorial contributions may be made to Sparrow Hospice in memory of Vi Finley. www.shellyodell.com. r:: I ~S-1 - C(

VICTOR GEQl!GE HEAL, SR . ..

Victor George Heal, Sr. of Eaton R;apids, age 81, passed away Friday, April 27, 2007 in Charlott~ .. Victor was born July 9, 1925 m Davison, MI, the son of George and Adaline Adelia (ijall) Heal. He retired in 1987 after 17 years with the Department of Transportation State of Michigan. Victor wa~ past president of the Docent Guild for the Michigan Historical Museum and former volunteer for the American Red Cross for many years.

He is survived by his wife of 58_ years, Lois E. (Williams); 4 children, Victor G.(Kathy) Heal II of Albion, Peggy (Bob) Smith of Munith, Penny Williams of Jackson, Patty (Ken) Brier of Sterling Heights; 8 grandchil­dren; 11 great grandchildren· brother, Gene (Pearl) Heal of Davison; sister, Joan Coe of Crystal; several nieces and nephews; and 2 dogs, Stormy rutd Gunner.

, Memorial services were hfld, ~fonday, April 30, 2007 at t~ Eaton Rapids Wesleyan Qturch. Arrangements are by tb!'Slrelf1-0dell Funeral Home Eatoll:. Ripids. Those desiring . '?ay. ·Olake memorial contribu­tlOns . .1~ Eaton Community Ho pice m memory of Victor G. Heal, Sr. www.shellyodell.com

,:. ( Q.& A..v.J.., ~ - - 07

-RUSSELL

DALE WINSLOW

Russell Dale Winslow of F.aton Rapids; age 79, passed away Saturday, April 28, 2007. He was born May 27, 1927 in Alma, Michigan, the son of Russell K. and Kittie M. (Caruss) Winslow. Russell served in the US AK Force for 4 years and was stationed in Japan during the Korean War. In 1984, he retired from the Motor Wheel Coq). after 40 years of service. He also farmed for over 50 years and lived on the famili"<;:entennial Farm. .,

Surviving are his wife of 52 years, Norine; 2 ·sons, Dan E. (Sharlene) Winslow of Eaton Rapids, Don C:· Winslow of Evanston, IL; daughter, Donna E. (Mike) Pettit of Ovid, MI; 3 grandchildren, Kelly Marie, Troy "Bubba" and Kimberly Winslow; 2 step-grandsons, Dennis, Jr. (Karen) and John (Jennifer) Desgrange; and a sis­ter; Anne (David) Cantine of Eaton Rapids.

Private graveside ·services will be held. Arrangements are by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home. Those desiring may make memorial .contributions to your favorite charity in memory of Russell Dale Winslow www.shellyodell.com Ft~ '5""- /-Cl

RICHARD CHARLES . COULON Richard Charles Coulon,

age 76, of Eaton Rapid$ J.)aSsed away on Friday, Apnl 27 •.'/:007 to be with his Lord and Sa\1ior, Jesus Christ. He was boJirt in Adrian, MI. on June 9, ~O the son George and Bernice (Zemlo) Coulon, deceased. Dick graduated from Adrian High School in 1948 where he was named Adrian High School Athlete of the Year. He graduat­ed from Michigan State University in 1952 and later did post graduate studies at Illinois Institute of Teclu\ology. After graduation, Dick was appointed second lieutenant in the US Army and served with distinc­tion in the Korean War and was discharged as a captain. Upon being discharged, · he joined Consumers Power as a graduate student in training, and retired as Corporate Senior Gas Consultant (Gas Utilization) after 39 years of service. Dick was also very active in numer­ous civic and church activities.

· He served as tile Lansing President of the Industrial Executives Club; Mason City

. Co!JJlcilman !llld Mayor Pro­Tem; rresident rof the Nevis Lake Home Owners As~ociati~ V.FW :I.di , ~ Post Commantler for the tlte ~ Michigan; Mason Kiwanis Club; and numerous other serv­ice organization~: Dick was also a member of the First Baptist Church of Eaton Rapids, where he found great salvation. He was also preceded in death by his wife Beverly Coulon in 2005; aunts and uncles, Mike and Stan Zemlo, Alfred Coulon all of Adrian.

He is survived by his daugh­ter, Ann (Len) Bean of East Lansing; 2 sons, Craig (Robbyn) of Noblesville, IN. and Rick (Sherri) of Cummings, GA.; 8 grandchildren and l great grandchild; 6 step-chil­dren, Barbara (Dave) Scheider of Eaton Rapids, Kim Sherman of Eaton Rapids, Joe (Sherri) Mills of Eaton Rapids, Chris (Karen) Mills of Concord, Mike Mills of Middleville, KY. and Ted Mills of Eaton Rapids; 16 step-grandchildren and 2 step­great grandchildren; one broth­er, Donald Coulon of Amana, IA.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, May 1, 2007 at the First Baptist Church 9220 Kinneville Rd. Eaton Rapids at 11:00 A. M. Burial will follow at the Rosehill Cemetery in Eaton Rapids with Full Military Honors provided by the VFW Post # 6986 Onondaga. Family will receive friends l hour prior to service time at the church. For those desiring memorial gifts may be made to either the First Baptist Church in Eaton Rapids or the University of Michigan Cancer Center in Ann Arbor, in memory of Richard C. Coulon. Fl~ S-f-07

Dale E. Ellsworth Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 76, passed away Tuesday, May l, 2007 ID Lansing. Dale was born Janu­ary 13, 1931 in F.aton Rapids,

-tbe ·. son of Clyde and Ber-

.I·' .nice Ellsworth. He was an Eaton Rapids

graduate, Class of 1949, attended Michigan State College and was a proud veteran of the U.S. Ar­my. Dale was very active in the Eaton County 4-H clubs and a leader for many years. He was a recognized member of both the State and National F.F.A Dale retired from U.S.D.A Poultry Research Lab in East Lansing in 1991 after 30 years of servtce. Since retirement, Dale enjoyed . time with his children and grandchildren, and farming on the same farm he was raised on. Preceded· in death by his sister, Roberta Gates; brothers, Hall and Dorr; and 2 grandchildren, Holli Tyler and Justin M. Ells­worth, Dale is survived by his wife of 52 years, Suianne; 7 chil­dren, Janice (Mark) O'Donnell, Jim (Theresa), Joe (Linda), Judy Bishop, John (Debbie), Jeff (Samantha), and Jill Ellsworth; sister, Mary Gates; sister-in-law, Beverly Ellsworth; very special nephew, David (Patty) Ells­worth; 22 grandchildren; and 3 great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held ll:OO a.m. Frldl!y, May_ 4, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids with in­terment to follow at Springport Cemetery, Sprin~ort. '.The fami­ly will receive friends and family on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-9 J:l.m. at the funeral home. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the First United Methodist Church, Eaton Rapids, in memory of Dale Ells­worth: www.shellyodell.com LSj 5 - 3 -07

Doris Laura Reese Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 97, passed away Saturday, May 5, 2007 m Eaton Rapids. Doris was born July 12, 1909 in Eaton Rapids Township, the dau~hterofBen­jamm Franklin and Effie Bell

• (Whipf) Keeler. She was a member o the First Congregational Church of Eaton Rapids. Doris enjoyed playing cards (Bridge, Euchre and Cribbage), golfing, watching Ti$er Woods golfmg, fishing, knitting and crocheting. Preced­ed in death by her hus5and, Har­old, in 1994, Doris is survived by her two sons, Steven (Beth) Re­ese of Dacula, GA, and Richard (Barbara Grippe) Reese of Edinboro, PA; 4 grandchildren, Sam (Donna) Reese, Joe (Mary WolO Reese, Julie (Wesley) Taylor, Melonie (GeofO Elmore; 6 great-grandchildren, Aubrey and Canedy Reese, Cory and Valerie Elmore, Skye and Laney Taylor; and sister, Betty Miller of Eaton Ra_pids. Funenil serv­ices will be held 2:00 p.m. Wednesda)', May 9, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 s. Main, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. John Metcalf officiating... Interment will follow at Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids. Her family will re­ceive friends and family on Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Those de­siring may make memorial contributions to the First Con­sregation Church, Eaton Rapids, m memory of Dons :Q.eese. <" www.shel!Yodell.com L <3..)

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JACK L. DICKERSON Jack L. Dickerson of Eaton

Rapids, age 74, passed away Saturday, April 28, 2007 in Eaton Rapids. Jack was born February 24, 1933 in Potterville, Ml, the son of Silas Lynn and Bernice Belle (Lyons) Dickerson-Taylor. He was a veteran of the l[.S. Anny, serving iri the Korean War, and a member of VFW Post 2406 in Charlotte. Jack retired as Dock Controller for GM Parts Warehouse after 37 years of #rvice, but his life passion was farming. He was an avid bowler and President of Top of the Hill Bowling League in Charlotte. Preceded.in death by his three sisters, Vivian, Norma and Helen.

Jack is survived by his wife of 52 years, Betty L. Dickerson; 4 children, Debbie (Richard) Drewyor of VA, Jack (Montse) Dickerson of VA, Shelly (David) Waidelich of Eaton Rapids, Richard Dickerson of Eaton Rapids; 13 grandchildren; 9 great grand­children; brother, Don (Sandra) Taylor of Eaton Rapids; broth­er-in~law, Don. Miller of Potterville; several nieces and nephews; and his "best friend" Benjamin.

Funeral services were held on Wednesday, May 2, 2007 at the Wesleyan Church, Eaton Rapids, with interment follow­ing at Brickyard Cemetery, Eaton Rapids. Arrangements by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids: Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Eaton Rapids Wesleyan Church in memory of Jack Dickerson. www.shellyodell.com. Fl~ S - i-o7 .

DALLAS " BOB" R. -DALRYMPLE

Dallas .. Bob" R Dalrymple of Ononda~a. passed away 0n Friday, April "2.7 2007, at the age of 66,· ·

He is ~ved by his wife of 24 years, 1'f ancy, five chil­dren, Michelle (Jerry) Weigel, Teresa Dalrymple, Annette (Jo~~ Mop~c, Laurie (Charlie) Dalrymf'le,: "Dallas (Cathy) Dalrymple, Jr., two stepchil­dren. , ~bie (LeRoy) Dowcli~~ David Sorenson, 15 grandchfldren, 14 great-grand­children, . tlu:ee sisters, Betty (Howard) Bodell, JoAnn Herrick, Joyce Croft, stepsister Debbi Corneil, stepbrother, Butch Burke and numerous nieces 8lld nephews. Jlob was preceded in death by bis par­ents, Martin and Dorothy (Smith) Dalrymple, one great­grandchild, sister, Patricia Rae and stepfather, Dawson Burke. Bob owned and ran the Dalrymple and Son Farm Service in Onondaga and was a member of the Onondaga Fire Department.

Cremation has taken place and there will be no services. In lieu of ·flowers, memorial con­tributions may be made to the Hospice Services of the Sparrow Foundation, PO Box · 30480, Lansing, MI 48909-998"6. Arrangements are being handled by th~ J.C. Adams Funeral Home. Lesli~ Cha~I. . l~ ~ .,..k':-C 'J,

DORIS LAURA REESE Doris Laura Reese of Eaton

Rapids, age 97, passed away Saturday, May S, 2007 in_ Eaton Rapids. Doris was born July 12, 1909 in Eaton· Rapids Township, _the daughter of Benjamin Franklin and Effie Bell (Whipp) Keeler. She was a member of the First Congregational Church of Eaton Rapids. Doris enjoyed playing cards (bridge, euchre & cribbage), golfing, watching Tiger Woods golfing, fishing, knitting and crocheting. Preceded in death by her hus­band, Harold, in 1994.

Doris is survived by her two sons, Steven (Beth) Re~se of Dacula, GA, and Richard (Barbara Grippe) Reese of Edinboro, PA; 4 grandchildren, Sam (Donna) Reese, Joe (M~y Wolf) Reese, Julie (Wesley) Taylor, Melopie (Geoff) Elmore; 6 great grandchildren, Aubrey & Canedy Reese, Cory & Valerie Elmore, Skye & Laney Taylor; and sister, Betty Miller of Eaton Rapids.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. \Yednesday, May 9, 2007 at the Sbelly­Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids, with Rev. John Metcalf officiating. Interment will follow at Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids. Her family will receive friends and family today from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Funeral Home. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the First Congregation Church, Eaton Rapids, in mem­ory of Doris Reese. www.shellyodell.com 'f /"'4-/1.J.,:l '5-'i- --oi

LAURA L. CATERINO Laura L. Caterino, age 96

of Eaton Rapids died Friday, May 11, 2007 at Spectrum. Health United Memorial Hospital in .Greenville, MI. Born March ·30, 1911 in Mt. Pleasant th.e.dauglucr .of.Daniel and Alice icrippcnponc~ .. Mrs. Caterino ·was a member of St. Peter Cathofic C!:\urch. Sile was preceded in death by. ber hus" band, Patsy in I 9S3 aud 2 ons, Frank and Bob. · •. '

She i~ surviw<l by a. son, Richard (Ruby) .Caterino of Stanton; 9 grandchildren and IS great grandchildren.·

Mass of the Christian Burial will be Tuesday. May 15. 2007 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Peter Catholic Church in Eaton Rapids with burial following in the Rosehill Cemetery in Eaton Rapids. Family will receive friends at the chur,ch one hour prior to Mass. Arrangements

, were through the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids.

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BERTHA JOSEPHINE BAKER

Bertha Josephine Baker of Eaton Rapids, age 7S, died Wednesday, May 9, 2007 in Lansing. Bertha was born April 19, 1929 in Lansing, the daugh­ter of Andrew Brian and Lura Jeanette (Jones) Scott. She was preceded in death by 2 children, Max and Ricky.

She is sutvived by her hus­band of 58 years, Max Jr. ~aker of Eaton Rapids: daughter, Sally Baker of Eaton Rapids; son, Bob (Karen) Baker of Eaton .Rapids; 7 grandchildren, Jenny, Robbie, Andy, Jamie, Brad and Chad Baker and Joey Reichstetter; 9 greaf grandchil­dren Xavier, Dylan and Brooke Walker, R.J. and Madison Baker, Elijah Sutton, Tony, Trysta and Ashleigh Reichstetter; I brother, Fred (Mary) Scott of Lewiston and I sister, Sally Chaplain of" Grayling.

There will be no services for Mrs. Baker. Arrangements by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids. www.shellyo­dell.com nu..sh-l()

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DALE E. ELt.SWORTH _Dale E. Ellsworth of Eaton

Rapids, age 76, passed away Tuesday. May 1, 2007 in Lansing. Dale was born January 13, 1931 in Eaton Rapids, the son of · Clyde and Bernice Ellsworth. He was an Eaton Rapids Graduate, Class of 1949, attended Michigan State College and was a proud veter­an of the U.S. Army. Dale was very active in the Eaton County 4-H clubs and a leader for many · years. He was a recognized member of both the State and National F.F.A. Dale retired from U.S.D.A. Poultry Research Lab in East Lansing in 199 1 after 30 years of serv­ice. Since retirement, Dale enjoyed time with Iii~ children , and grandchildren,- and farming on the same farm he was raised on. Preceded in death by his sis­ter, Roberta Gates; brothers, Hall and Dorr; and 2 grandchil­dren, Holli Tyler and Justin M. Ellsworth.

Dale is survived by his wife of 52 years, Suzanne; 7 chil­dren, Janice (Mark) O,Donnell, Jim (Theresa), Joe (Linda), Judy Bishop, John (Debbie), Jeff (Samantha), and Jill Ellsworth; sister, Mary Gates; sister-in-law, Beverly Elts\vorth; very special nephew, Davjd: (Patty) Eilsworth; 22 grandchildren; and 3 great grandchildren. ~

Funeral services were held Friday, May 4, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids and interment fol­lowed at Springport Cemetery, Springport. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the First United Methodist Church, Eaton Rapids, in mem­ory of Dale Ellsworth. www.shel 1 yodel! .com. f::L~ ~N---o

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CLYDE W. DAVIS Ciy,Pe W. Davis of

Onondaga, age 82, who would have tutned 83 in June, passed away Friday, May 11, 2007. Clyde WQrked as a journeyman weldef for Oldsmobile for over 35 years, retiring.in 1981, and was a lifelong farmer, celebrat­ing SO years of owning "THE FARM", H~ proudly served his count~ in the U.S. Marine Corps during WWII, was a life member of Jean R. Anderson VFW Post 7309 in Mason, Post Commander, belonged to Cootie-Pup Tent 73, and served as Posr ehaplin. He married Olive Marie Earl on July 24, 1948, and l~yy spent nearly 57 years tog.ether until her death in 2005. Preceded in death also by his parents, Elmer and Bessie

1 (Skinner) Davis; brother, George; and sisters, Gladys Maranka, Donna Goddard, and Dolly Reed ..

Clyde is · survived by his children, Carol Tibbitts of Jaokson, Jeanne (Fred) Davis, and Douglas (Connie) Davis, all of Onondaga, and Daniel

. Davis of Haslett; nine grand-children; eleven great-grand­children; sisters, Dorothy "Dot" David of Bellevue, Marion Lieberman of Live Oak, FL; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held 11 :00 a.m. Wednesday, May 16, 2007, at the Shelly­Odell Funeral Home, 5!8 S. Main, Eaton Rapids with inter­ment following at Onondaga Cemetery. The family will receive friends and family today from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Funeral Home. He often told his children that he had a full life. Memorial contribu­tions may be made to the Batlle Creek Veteran's Hospital or American Cancer Society in memory of Clyde W. Davis. www.shellyodell.com. ~

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DALE BURR BOGGS Dale Burr Boggs of Laguna

Niguel, CA, formerly of Kentwood, Ml · was born December 31, 1959 in Michigan and went to be with the Lord May 18, 2007 in Fountain Valley, California. He was· 47 years old. Dale was most recently a General Manager at the Michigan Packaging Company, where he .worked for 26 years but had moved' to California with his wife arid two youngest sons to pursue their dream of owning

· thefl" own business. Dale will be lovingly

remembered by his wife of 17 yeai:s, Dorenda Boggs; daugh­ters, Layla (Tim) Sever and Lila Boggs; sons, Benjamin Boggs, Darion Boggs and Davion Boggs; mother, Fay Boggs; sis­ters, Anita (Nelson) Wheaton, Diane (Dale) Newsome and Merry Reading ; brother, Pat (Lori) Boggs and grandchil­dren, Hailey, Tristen and Odin. Dale was preceded in death by his father, Franklin "Burr" Boggs.

A graveside service will be • held in California and a memo­rial service will be held on Saturday, May Z6, 2007, 2:00 pm at the ' Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids, MI. www.shellyodell.com.

Pennie Sue Sharp l-3 J Eaton Rapids, Ml 5{~ijo1

Age 48, died Thursday, ·May 24, 2007 as a re­sult of an auto­mobile acci­dent. Born No­vember 29, 1958 in Lansing the daughter of Wil­liam and Leaffy (Secord) Gra­ham. Mrs.

Sharp was an. employ~e of Gen­eral Motors 10 Lansing and a member of the U.A.W. Local #652. She was a member of the Michi$an Great Lakes Breeders Association and Percheron Horse Association of Michigan. Preceding her in death was her father, Bill Graham. Surviving are her husband, .Jack Sharp; son, David (Luci) Snarp of Eaton ' Rapids; daughter, Macy Lounds ~ of East Lansing;_ 6 grandsons, , Jordan, Jake, Kaleb and Grant Sharp, Lucas and Eric Lounds; motlier, Bea Graham .of Dimondale; 6 brothers and 2 sis­ters, Jay (Aggie) Graham, Jennie (Alvin) Broemer, Michael (Pam) Graham, William (Joan) Gra­ham, Nora (Mark) Williams, Bryon Graham, Kim (Rhonda) Graham and Ed (Sheila) Gra­ham· and many nieces and neIJh­ews.' Funeral services will be held OD Tuesday, May 29, 2007 at 11:00· a.in. from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids with burial fol­lowing in the Onondaga Ceme- · tery. Family will receive frien~s at the funeral home on Memori­al Day, Monday from 2-4 and 6-8. For those desiring memorial contributions may be ~ad ~o your local Humane Society 10 memory of Pennie Sue Sharp. For online condolences go to www.skinnerfuneralhome.cpm.

Carolyn J. Merrill Eaton Rapids, Ml

Loving daugh­ter and sister, passed away un­expectedly on May 24, 2007 as the result of an auto accident, at ,the age of 22. Carolyn was a 2003 graduate of Eaton Rapids High School

and was currently attending Lansing Community College. She baa a very loving heart and will be dearly missed by family and friends. Surviving are: be­loved parents, Paul and Julie Merrill of Eaton Rapids; loving brother, Matt Merrill of Grand Rapids; great-grandmother, Mar· tha Spencer; grandparents, Nor· ma Merrill, Gerald Rill, Sr., and Jack Merrill, Sr. Also surviving are her loving aunts, uncles and cousins. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m... on Tuesday, May 29, 2007 at South Church of the Nazarene, 401 W. Holmes Road, Lansina:, with the R~v. Dr. Harold M. DeMott officiat­ing. The family will receive friends from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. on. Monday at the Estes-Leadley Holt/Delhi Chapel and 1 hour prior to the service on Tuesday at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of Carolyn Merrill. '-bJ ~I C)l /o...,

Gary A. Adams Eaton Rapids, Ml Age .fl, ~d away suddenly MoP.Y• ·\lrfay 21, 2007 id' Eaton Rap~. Gary was born August 2, 1945 fi Lansing, the son of Allen and lJ<anda (Meechum) Adams. Gary :yas a bus driver for CATA for 3Q;years. Garr is survived by Vict<lna, his l~ wife of 27 year~. Also s~g are his six children, Lyne~ (Timothy) Berry, · Robin (Craig) Munson, Bobbit) (Rodney) BlSton, Sandra Ad~. Patricg Adams, Lori Adams; two miters, Nancy (Mike) Olger, :&irb Tafel; and thirteen grandcliildren. Preced­ed in death by hi$ parents. and son, ~en Adams. A memollal servWe will be held Saturday, May 26, 2007 at 2:00 p.ai. at Pallner, Bush & Jensen Fiuni­ly FUDetal H~~ 52«) :& Mt. Hope Ave., LiJISiDg Cbapel with the Deverend Steve Weinberger officiating. In lieu of flowers contributions · may be nlade to the American Diabetes Association. Condolences· can be sent to the family at www. palmerbusb.com

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Audrey E. Cleeves 1'~\) :1 l ..J Mesa, AZ 45 ~ D~ Formerly of Eaton Rapids, Ml

Loving wife, mother, grand­mother and friend went to be \vtth the Lord.on May 21, 2007 at the age of76. Born June 5, 1930 iii Eaton Rapids, the daughter of the late Allert and

Irene (Williams) Lokken. Audrey graduated from Eaton Rapids High School class of 1948. On June 4, 1949 she mar­ried the love of her life Fredrick 0. Cleeves and together they shared 57 wonderfiil years of marriage. She worked for Allied in Eaton Rapids until 1957 and spent . the next 25 years as Pur­cha~· Agent for Lansing Com­mu · College and Michigan State nivers1ty where she re­tired in 1982. After retirement Audrey and Fred made Arizona their primary residence and re­turned. summers . to their home {)n the Bake Michigan shore in Manistee, Michigan. It was one of AUdrey's favorite places. Left to grieve her passing are her husband, Fred; son, Fred Jr. of Sedona, AZ and daughter Colette of Chandler, AZ; 2 beau­tiful granddaughters she adored, Rebecca and Kierstin; 1 brother, Richard (Dianne) Lokken of Clovis, New Mexico; sister, Anita Jensen of Newark, TX; and many nieces1 !1ephews and friends. Memomu services. will be held June 4, 2007 in Mesa, AZ. For online condolen­ces and to view the video tribute of Audrey's life go to www. skinnerfurieralhome.com.

LSJ S/z?/"7 Willis Dean Spalding Eaton Rap.ids, Ml

Age 80, passed away Sunday, May 27, 2007. Dean was born

lfti•-..~ March l, 1927 in Crystal, MI, the son of Fred Adelbert and HAROLD "HARRY" C. Clara (Hatt) HOLT Spalding; He Harold ·~Harry" C. Holt, was a U.S. Na- age 74 of Dimondale and for-

' ' vy Veteran, -. serving in World War II. Dean merly . of :Shelbyville, TN died was a 57 year member of Iron- Saturday, May 26, 2007 at his workers Local #25, a member of residence roi1owing a terminal the First United Methodist illness. Born October 15, 1932 Church, Eaton Rapids, a former in Medford.- Mass. the son of member of Holt First Presbyteri-an Church, and a member of the Robert and· Velma (Bedell) Eaton Rapids Senior Center. He Holt. Mr. Holt served 10 years enjoyed sports and especially in the United States Air Force watching his grandchildren during the Korean War, he spent playing their sports. Preceded in 5 years in the restaurant bu~i­aeath by his wife, B~bara in 1997, and 10 sibli~s,.' Dean is ness in California, and retiled survived by 1 dau ter, Karen after 28 years of service -..i~ (Gary) Masarik of aton Rapids; American Airlines. Prec~&it_g 3 ·sons, William Spaldin~ of him in death was his first wife, Charlotte, David • (Eileen Lehnert) Spalding of Jackson, Shirley. Timothy (Ann Herzberg) He is survivied by his wife, Spalding of Eaton Rapids; 6 Carol Marciniak-Holt or grandcliildren, Anne and Adam Dimondale; 4 sons, · Ranljly Lehnert-Spaldi~g, . Alan . ~d (Sandy) Holt of Kiefer, OK;' eff Christopher Shiinmin, Ben1amm h -and Robert Spalding; sister, (Betty Jean) Holt of Anc ora~e. Arlene Henerfouth of Eaton Alaska, Brian (Anna) Holl of Rapids; brother-in-law, Bruce Floresvme, TX and Robin Holt (Alice) Blancher of MN; sister- of Shelbyville, TN; daughter, in-law, Polly Armistead of TN; Kimberly (Mike) Marcoulier of

'al . friend, Betty Miller of Shelbyville, TN; 6 step-chil-. . Rapids; and .many nieces,

~e'J?.! ews, and cousms. Services ·dren, Carol (Jim) Miller, Mary "8,('be held 11:00 a.m. Wed- (Steve) Groves, Annette neSday, May 30, 2007 at the Cyphert, Sal Marciniak, Lori FirSt United Methodist (Claude) Saynes and Vivian Church, 600 S. Main, Eaton · . . . ll8pids. A graveside service will _(Everett) Hillard, 14 grandchil-be beld 2:30 p.m. Wednesday at dren, 14 step-grandchildren, 14 Roseland Memorial Gardens in great-grandchildren and 6 step­Jackson, MI. His family will re- great-grandchildren and many ceive friends and family on nieces and nephews. Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. . - ld at . the Shelly-Odell Funeral Memonal services were he Home 518 S. Main, Eaton Rap- on Tuesday, May 29, 2007 from ids. Those desiring may make the Skinner Funeral Home in ~emori~ contributi~ns to the Eaton Rapids with grandson Fust Uruted ~et~od1st Church 'Rev Brian Marcoulier officiat-of Eaton Rapids m memory of · . ' w. Dean Spalding. ing. Fanuly suggest~ for those www.shellyodell.com desiring memorial gifts may be

made to the Hospice Advantage at 801 S. Waverly Rd. Lansing, MI. in memory of Harold C. Holt. For online condolences go to www.skinerfuneral­home.com. f: I~

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GLENDON H. ·GIFFORD Glendon H. Gifford of

Spring Arbor formerly of Springport, went to be with the Lord May 23, 2007 while in thei loving care of family and Arbor­Manor care-givers. He was born June 21, 1908 to Ethel (Butler) and Forrest · H. Gifford in Albion, Michigan. Preceded in death by his wife of seventy years, Ruth; on May 29, 2006; deceased siblings, Alice Griffin, Everett, Robert, James, and Thelma Gifford.

Glendon is survived by six children, Neil (Sonja) Gifford, Wayne (Sandra) Gifford, Janet (Dan) Mergener, Rose (Robert) Moore, Kaye (Fred) Heniff, David (Carol) Gifford; siblings, Gerald and Donald Gifford and Doris Deadman; 20 grandchil­dren; 41 great-grand children; 3 great great:grandchildren; brother-in-laws, He'hry Linn, and Bruce (Patricia) Klett; and many' nieces, nephews, and cousins. Aftef graduation from Sprittgport High School he attended Western Michigan

. College in Kalamazoo, where. he earned a provisional teachiqg certificate and later earned a BS. and MA from WMU. Glendon retired from Harper Cree Schoof s, Battle Creek, after 30 years in education. He is a life­time member of MEA-NEA-R, Michigan Association Retired School Personnel, and Calhoun CoUJlty Association Retired Sch~! Personnel. He was an acfrv member of the Sprh\gport United Methodist Chlll'Ch, loved to do woodwork­ing and was a handy do-it-your­selfer. Glendon was a very avid reader and encouraged his grandchildren to read. He enjoyed a good political discus­sion, followed world events w.ith great enthusiasm, was interested in genealogy, and was a contributing writer for the book, History of Clarence Township: Then and Now, pub­lished in 1994. Glendon was loved by his family and many friend!<, he will be truly missed by many.

Services were held on Saturday, May 26, 2007 at Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main St., Eaton Rapids. l1Jterment followed at Clarence Center Cemetery. Memorial dQnat:ions may be made in his mem­ory to Springport United Methodist Church, P.O. Box E. Springport, Ml 49284. www.shellyodell.com.

HAROLD BARTON Harold Barton, age 97 of

Onondaga died Wednesday, May 23, 20~7 at Eaton Community Hospice 'in Charlotte. Boni August. 28, 1909 in Parma Townsbjp the son of Ira and Eva (Bardon) Barton. Harold was a li.re long farmer in the Onondaga area. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, f,!lfming or any activity outside. Harold also enjoyed Harness Racing. Preceding him in death was his wife Rose; daughter-in-law, Doris Bienz; 2 brothers, John and Lester Barton and a sister, Rumina Barney.

He is survivied by his step­son, DeWaine Bienz of Eaton Rapids; grandchildren, Diane Bienz of Eaton Rapids, Susan (Jim) Gray of Onondaga, Carl (Jill) Bienz of Eaton Rapids; 3 great grandchildren; great nephew, Gari (Margaret) Calhoun of Jackson and great niece Lori (Shane) Snavley of Albion.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, May 30, 2007 at 1 :00 p.m. from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids with burial following in the Oakwood Cemetery in Eaton Rapids. Family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 11:00 a.m . until service time. For onlinecondolences go to www.skinnerfuneralhome.com

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WiLLIS DEAN SPALDING Willis Dean Spalding of

Eaton Rapjds, age 80, passed away Sunday, May 27, 2007. Dean was born March I, 1927 in Crystal, MI, the son of Fred Adelbert and Clara · (Hatt) Spalding. He was a U:S. Navy Veteran, serving in World War II. Dean was a 57 year member of lronworkers Local #25, a member of ·the First Uruted

-Methodist Church, ··Eaton Rapids, a former member of Holt First Presbyterian Church, and a member of th~ Eaton Rapids Senjor Center. He enjoyed sports and especially watching his grandchildren playing their sports. Preceded in death by his wife, Barbara in 1997 and 10 siblings.

Dean is survived 'by 1 daughter, Karen (Gary) · Masarik of Eaton Rapids; 3 sons, William Spaldiug of Charlot~, David (Eileen Lehnertrspalding of Jackson, Timothy (Ann Herzberg) Spaldi11g of Eaton Rapids; 6 grandchildren, Anµe & Adam Lehnert-Spalding, Alan & Christopber Shimmin, Benjamin & Robert Spaliling; sister, Arlene Henerfouth of Eaton Rapids; brother-in-law, Bruce (Alice) Blancher of MN; sister-in-law, Polly Armistead of TN; special friend, Belly Miller of Eaton . Rapids; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Services will be held 1 I :00 a.m. today at the First United

Methodist Church, 600 S.

Main, Eaton Rapids. A grave­side service will be held 2:30 p.m. today at Ros land Memorial Gardens in Jackson, MI. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the First United Methodist Church of Eaton Rapids in memory of W. Dean Spalding. www.shellyodell.com. F(c:t sh l.-5

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DICK SCOTT Dick Scott, age 77 of Eaton

Rapid~ died Saturday, May 26'. 2007 in Lansing. Born Septembe~ 3, 1929 in EaCon Rapids the son of Allan and Dacia (Kelly) Scott. Dick was an Eaton Ritpids High School an.d· JviiChigan State University gradua17. He served as a mer­chant Marine during World War ll, and retired after 30 years of service from General Motors in Lansing. Following retirement

. Dick and his wife Esther enjoyed several years at their home in Florida. Preceding him in death was. his wife Esther (Twichell). .

He is survjvied .by his 2 daughters, Tracy (Sheldon) Freeman of Eaton Rapids and Sally Scott of Clev_eland, OH; 4 grandchildren, John (Kim) :Freeman of Eckert, CO, Jill .\Rick) Trierweiler of Charlotte, Benjamin and Bridgette Scott

·' both of Cleveland; 2 .great­! grandchildren, DaniellC and

Courtney Freeman, ·several ' nieces and nephews. ,.. lt was Mr. Scott's ·request ' that there be no services and

that cremation take place. The family in being served through Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Lansing at 6035 Executive Dr. Suite 103 Lansing, MI. 48911 in memory

., 1 of D)ck Scott. Fla.sh~ '5(30/0·1

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Fla.Sh~ Wednesday; May 30, 2007

GRETCHEN ANN HOLWIG Gi-etctien Ann ·flt>lwig, age

83 f9rmerly of Eat~ Rapids and Livonia, Michig1m rued Saturday, May 26th '1.0Cf7 after a long respiratory inttess: Born to LI~~ L. and Iva E. (Wilcox) Carr at Fort Dodge in D.odge City Kansas on August. 9,. i923. Orphaned at the age ·of. ll, she ·and her brothers, 'Sill. Benrue and Briice Carr telocaied to the Vet~r;ms of Foreign Wars National Home . i.n Eaton . " .. Rapids, After graduating from Eaton Rapids lligh SchoOl c1ass of 1941 she attend.ell the University of Kansas School of Meilicine graduating in' 1946 and returned to work at the VFW Hospital and the local Eaton Rapids Hospital. She met and married Guy M. Holwig of Brookfield Twp., Eaton Rapids on August 6, 1949. Her and Guy with their two children relocated to Livonia where she continued her 40 year career as a Registered Nurse at St. Mary's Mercy and Garden City Hospitals where she managed the kidney dialysis uruts and worked in surgery. She was

· preceded in death by 11':r hus­band of 52 years, Guy H. Holwig in 2001 with whom she enjoyed life to the fullest and experienced travels throughout the U.S., Canada, Hawaij, Cruna and Amazon jungles of' Venezuela. She and Guy were active in the Livonia· Community as original found­ing members of the Livonia YMCA and team nurse for the Livorua Juruor Athletic League

. along with her husband during hjs I 6 year tenure as UAL league President as well as members of the Livonia Elks Club. They both were avid out­door enthusiasts enjoying snow­mobiling, fishing and golfing as members of the Alpena Country Club. After retirement in 1986 they moved to their home on Beaver Lake, Michigan.

Gretchen is survived by her two sons and daughter-in-law, -================i William Martin (Christine Carol) Holwig, Bennie Paul (Colleen Ann) of Livonia, her grandchildren, William Guy Holwig, Julie C. Potvin and Michael E. Potvin. She was deeply loved by many friends and family and she will be missed by all of us.

Funeral Services will be . held at the Skinner Funeral home at 315 S. Rjver Street,. Eaton Rapids, Mi. Visitation will be Wednesday May 30 from 2-4 and 6-8. Funeral s.erv­ices will be Thursday May 31 at l:OO PM. Internment will fol­low at the Oak.wood Cemetery in Eaton Rapids. For online condolences go to www.skin­nerfuneralhome.c m .

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JAMES MYRON CLARKE James Myrt>B. Clarke of

Onondaga Ml, · age 91 died Saturday, June 16, 2007. He was born February 20, 1916 in Aurelius Twp. to William J. and Minnie E. (Bateman) Clarke. James was a full-time farmer fol­lowing the path of his father and grandfather. Reluctant to retire, he continued to do field work until this year when his health forced him to slow down. He · was very active in his communi­ty serving on many boards and organizations, including; Eaton County Farm Bureau, Eaton Farm Bureau Co-op (18 yrs.), Tri-County Electric Co-op (23 yrs .), Mich. Electric Co-op Association (10 yrs.), Mich. Farm Bureau Services, Onondaga Twp. Board of Review, as well as a 4-H Community and Handicraft leader (20 yrs.) and 4-H Council. In his younger days he loved to fish, hunt and trap. He enjoyed playing Dominoes with family and friends. He was preceded in death by his sisters Aletha Clarke, Mary (Raymond) Stanke, and brother Herbert (Shirley) Clarke.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 69 years, Dorothy M. (Towns), daughter Carol (Kenneth) Janousek of Olivet, sons Carl (Rebecca) Clarke of Alpena, and Robert (Denise) Clarke of Eaton Rapids, 10 won­derful grandchildren; Debra (Steve) GraeVS, · Mark (Rose) Janousek, Sandra (Joe) Costello, Chris -'(Beth), Theresa, John, Geoffrey, Leigh (Max) Sprauer, Joseph, and Alexander; 16 exceptionaf great-grandchildr~n; l sister, Lita (Saniuel) Gillett of Eaton Rapids aria many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday June 20, I :00 p.m. at Griffith U.M. Church with inter­ment following at Griffith Cemetery with Jack Fugate offi­ciating. The family will receive friends Tuesday June 19 from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m. at the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids, and at the church prior to the funeral. Donations in his honor may be made to the Griffith

ROBERT "ROB" JAY FINCH

Robert "Rob" Jay Finch of J3aton Rapids, age 45, passed ~away Wednesday, June 13, 2007 ·"in.Eaton R~. Robert was

l>c>m May 22,'.1:962, the son of Richard and Patricia Finch. He graduated from DeWitt High School and owned .and operated the R & K Small Engine in

-Eaton Rapids. Preceded in death by his brother, Rick Finch.

Robert is survived by his wife of 14 years, Kendra L. (Anderson) Finch of Eaton Rapids; 4 children, Kent Planck (serving in Iraq), Betsy Planck, Casandra Planck and Lyndsey

• Finch, all of Eaton Rapids; step­father, Pete (Bev) Pascalenos of Holt; mother and father-in-law, Sandra & Ken Anderson of Wyoming; sister, Shelee (Ash) Padhiar of PA; and several aunts, uncles, nieces & nephews.

Funeral services are being held I J :00 a.m. Tuesday, Jun~ 19, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids with Rev. Kenneth Anderson officiating. Those desiring may make contributions to either the American Cancer Society or the VFW National Home for Children in memory of Rob. www.shellyodell.com FiaM-Lt4-

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RAENEE MARIE P.IERCE Raenee Marie Pierce, age 47

of Jackson and formerly of Eaton Rapids died Sunday, June 17, 2007 at Foote Hospital in Jackson following a · long ill­ness. She was born April 12, 1960 in Howell,· Mich.lgan the daughter of Robert and Carol (Johnson) Pierce. Raenee for­merly worked in the health care field as a Nurse's Aid for Jarvis Acres and a convolesant home in Stockbridge. She was pre­ceded in death by her parents, Robert and Carol; 2 brothers, Brad and Daryl Pierce.

She is survived by her life partner, Larry Stac~ of Jackson; daughter, ' Venus Pierce of Jackson; brother, Rob Pierce o( Eaton Rapids and sister, Denise (Darcey) Miller of Springport; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, June 21, 2007 at 1.:00 p.m. with visitation start­ing at 11 :00 a.m. at the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids.

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Mary Jean Francisco Eaton Rapids, ~I

Age 65, died Thursday, June 21, 2007 in Eaton Rapids. Born March 31, 1942 in ·Lansing. MlfrY · was an Underwritler's Assistant for Michigan Mill­ers Mutual In­surance Co. in

Lansing and had formerly worked at Akemi Plastics in Eaton Rapids. M;rry was a very giving person. always there to help others, and her Jife re­volved around her grandchil­dren. Surviving are her husband of 20 years, Barry Francisco; 3 children, Renee (Craig) Briggs of Eaton Rapids, Grant (Michell) Goodnoe of Springpo~t and Re­gina Bollin of Marshall; 12 grand­children, Crystal, Shannon and Brandan Goodnoe, Ben and Sara Theisen, Jenna and Justin Briggs, Ashley Curtis, James and Robert Giffen, Jacob Stapleton and Bryant Lautzenheiser; sister, Sandy Lickert of Lansing; and several nieces and nephews. A memorial celebration of Mary's Life will held on Mon­day, June 25th at 3:00 p.m. &Om the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton ids with the Rev. Stephen officiat-ing. For online ndolences please visit SkinnerFuneral Horne.com. 1-Sj lt/a.~0 7

U.M. Church building fund" or r--============="""'----------m:.:===================:i the American Heart Association.

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DOLORES "DEE" A.McGE~

Dolores "Dee" A. McGee age 71 of Eaton Rapids died Wednesday, May 30, 2007 at.the Eaton Community Hospice with family at her bedside. She was

· born September 5, J 935 in Charlotte the daughter of Etiiest and Aletha (Nichols) Palmer. Dee was a. former waitress ~lhe Keg Bar rn Eaten Rapi~ .She enjoyed going r() -garage sales with her sister and loved -coffee time with her friends. Sh ;was most happy · during hunting s~a­son cooking wild game for her boys. Preceding her in death was a son, Bugsy and daughter, YoYo; sister Irene Vlick and brother, Robert Palmer.

She is survivied by her hus­band of 28 years, Chuck McGe~; 7 sons, Frank (Renee) Cervantes of Caruthersville Missouri, Tony (Linda) Cervantes of Eaton Rapids, Rick (Cheryl) Cervantes of Cottage Grove, Tennessee, Marc (Julie) Cervantes of Phoenix, Nick Cervantes of Owosso, Tino Cervantes of Charlotte and Paul (Beverly) Wandel o.f Mulligan; 39 grand­children and numerous great and1'18rem great-grandchildren· sister hittine Eaton of Charlott; an4s4:veralnieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held on June 2, 2007 from the Sl\inner .Funeral Home In Eaton R~~ • with the Rev. Ben Cotl"stantine, officiating. Burial follo~ed< in the Rosehill Cem<atery jn Eaton Rapids with her sons as pallbearers. For those desiring memorial contri­butions may ·be made to the · Eaton Community Hospice at 2675 S. Cochran Rd. Cliarlotte MI 48813 in memory of De; McGee. f \0.. <; \'v:-..-S lQ l SI en

HAROLD OTIS BARTON .. Harold 0. Barton, age 97 of

Onondaga died Wednesday, May 23, 2007 at the · Eaton Community Hospice in Charlotte. He was b&m August 28, 1909 in Parma Township the son of Ira and Eva (Bardon) Barton. Harold was a life long farmer in the Onondaga area. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, farming or any activity outside and enjoyed Harness Racing. Preceding him in death was his wife Rose; daughter-in-law, Doris Bienz; 2 brother$, John and Lester Barton and a sister Rumina Barney. '

He is survivied by his step­son, DeWaine Bienz of Eaton Rapids; grandchildren, Diane Bienz of Eaton Rapids, Susan (Jim) Gray of Onondaga, Carl (Jill) Bienz of Eaton Rapids; 3 great-grandchildren; great nephew, Carl (Margaret) Calhoun of Jackson and great niece Lori (Shane) Snavley of Albion and long time compan-10n, Tess Dunlap of Onondaga.

Funeral services were lield on May 30, 20t>7 from the S1'inner Funeral Home in Eaton Rf(lids. Burial followed in the Olk.wood Cemetery in Eaton Rapids . Flci.sh .~ l.o.l~l"l

KENNETH RAYMOND EAVES

Kennet.B ~mond Eaves of Deming, N~ formerii of Lansing-, · age· 66, went to be with the L?rd on ianuary 27, 2007:ffb \tjaS l>6rnAugust 12, 1940jRJ}etroit ~eth was a graphic ;u-tist ' at All Star Printing Comp.any ID; Lansing, was a g~smith,: a.-Oh~mpion at target ., P~stol . shootiflg and an avid•fisberman and: hunter. He and hi partner .. de\feloped a special target pistol ~un ~ight which sotd in the . USA and intem~ti6nally . . IS:en !fa· been a resiqeit~ ~i oelniqg f6r app~ox­imatdy 2 years and ,was a member of the )).emblg Moose Lod~e No. 2088. He will be

. greatl_Y . mi~se~ ·bi Jl.i ~y' bt<lo'flci.\Jri'. fio~ng and~ ~.a'U· ~ w him. ~e W,~~~~ in death by his w~I:~ Sue in 1999. ~ . . .

. He.is '-in~~a~-.bis . par-. ents, Dorotby and Bill Al!en of Goshen, IN~ Jq.rmt;rly of Eaton Rapids; son l'f)c,holas (Tera) K. Eaves of Holt; 2 grandchildren Brooke and ]3rianna Eaves.

A memorial graveside serv­ice will be held on June 9 2007 , 2:00 p.m. at Rosehi lj Cemetery, Eaton .'. Rapids. Arrangements by the Shelly­Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids. www.shellyodell.com.

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DAVID K. ROSSELL David K. Russell, age 61 of

Lake Odessa passed away Wednesday, May 30, 2007 unexpectedly while enjoying a trip at bis cottage with his wife in Stonington, Ml. '

David is survived by his loving wife, best friend and companion Kim Russell, along with his seven children; Dawn Russell-Osterhout of Hastings, Keith (Marcie) Russell of Lake Odessa (both active in the Army Natiotml Guard), Stephanie (Walter) Church of Hastings, Stacey (Steve) Skinner of Plainwell, Autumn Russell of Lake Odessa, PFC David A. Russell active Marine stationed in Iraq, Danielle Russell of Lake Odessa, and ten grandchildren. David is also

, survived byliis brother William (Cindy) R\issell of Eaton Rapids, Si·~!~r Laurie (Erv) Lub1tz of Sunfield, the son of the late William and Betty Russell of 13alon Rapids, and son-in-law of Guy and Sharon Gunder of Eaton Rapids. David enjoyed hunting, fishing, gar­dening, and most of all spend­ing time with his family and friends. David never allowed the 11 year battle with cancer interfere with living life to the fullest. He will · be deeply missed. · The family will receive friends and relatives on June 9th, 2007 from 3 to 6 at 14126 · :Becker Rd. Lake Odessa. · MI (Tupper Lake Resort). F'la..o-1~ v I'S/ OI

Roxie -. of Eaton Rapids, age passed away Thursday, M~ 2007. Roxie was born Au 22, · 1922 in Breathitt CO~ KY, the daughter of lJ~. and Vada (Howar~) Ci:a , ~eded in death hi ~er ~tet, Elaine Craft, alld son, Rbnoie Criit\,

Roxie is su~ffed bY her bu ;8l'd of 62 ars, C~de Craft; 4 daugl{; , Paulette (B~b Swartout, :ta"nie (Th,~y) Eaton, Judy CrM( and Dolores Craft, all of Eaton Rapids; 3 grandchildren; 4 '.great .gµm.d­children; and ·sister, !;olma Boatwright of Flor~. ,

Graveside services were held on June 4. 7,. at Oakwood Cemetecy, ~, on Rapids . Ttmse ·<:Mslfint· may make memol'i!l1..coottibuti6ns to the Faith Assembly of God • Church, Leslie, MI, in memory of Roxie Craft. F \~tu.a

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Dou~as Frank \-~ ~ Henderson \>(c:::,f D1 Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 79, ·passed away Monday, June 4; 2007 m Lansing. Doug­las was born September 25, 1927 in Lansing, Ml, the son of Gleri and Millicent (Up­h o l d ) Henderson. He was a veteran

of the U.S. Navy, seIVing in World War II. Douglas retired from Centrifugaj Fusing in 1982 after 38 yeai:s of service and en­joyed wor~ for 20 more years with Rapids fool & Engineering. Preceded in death by his son, Larry Henderson; grandson, Zane Gardner; 3 brothers; and 2 sisters, Doug is survived by his wife of 28 112 years, Delphine "Buffy" (Stewart); son, Darrell "Kirk" (Barbara) Henderson of Marshall; · daughter, Judith Gibson of;· Eaton Rapids; 12 grandchildren; 21 great­grandchi~- sister, Dawn (Thomas) Beachnau of tansing; sister-in-law, Freda Henderson of Berrian . Springs; and man nieces, h~s, and .cousins._ ~rvices' Will lte · held ll:OO a.m. TbQnc)ay, June 7; 2007

· at the ShellY-Odell Funeral Home1 . • S. Main, Eaton R.apias, .with interment to fol­low at Deepdale Memorial Gar­dens, Lansmg. The fa:;f O. will receive friends and f: y on Tuesday and Wednesday from 6-8 J?.m. both evenings. Those

· desirmg may make memorial contributions to the First Lu­theran Church of Charlotte. www.shellyodell.com

DOUGLAS FRANK HENDERSON

Douglas Frank Henderson of Eaton Rapids, age 79, pass().I away Monday, June 4, 2007 in Lansing. Douglas was bo1: September 25, 1927 in Lansing, MI, the· 'son of Glen an: Millicent (Uphold) Henderson: ' He was a veteran of the U.S : Navy, serving in World War II. Douglas • retired from Centrifugal Fusing in 1982. after 38 years of service aQd : enjoyed working for 20 mory . years with Rapids Tool & Engineering. Preceded in death by his first wife, Phyllis (Merlington) Hl$derson; son, · Larry Henderson, great-grand­son, Zane Gardner; 3 brothers; and 2 sisters.

Doug is survived by his wife of28 l/2 years, Delphine ''Buffy" (Stewart); son, Darrell "Kirk" (Barbara) Henderson of Marshall; daughter, Judith Gibson of Eaton Rapids; daugh­ter-in-law, Lorene (Payne)Henderson of Eaton Rapids; 12 grandchildren, Lori (Chad) Jones, Sheila (Bill) Poland, Lynette (Todd) Gardner, Tony (Kate) Henderson, Sandra Henderson Brewbaker, Nick (Anita) Henderson, Andrew (Andrea) Henderson, Kirnerly Morgan, Adam Henderson, Shannon (Mark) Martin, Josh (Akemi) Struble, Caitlin Gibson; 21 great grandchildren; sister, Dawn (Thomas) Beachnau of Lansing; sister-in-law, Freda Henderson of Berrien Springs; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services were held Thursday, June 7, 2007 at the SheUycOdell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with interment to following at Dee pd ale Memorial Gardens, Lansing. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the First Lutheran Church of Charlotte. www.shellyodell.com. Fletaltv.J

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REX A. TYLEfl Rex A. Tyler of Eaton

Rapids, age 56, passed away Tuesday, June 5, 2007 at hi s residence. Rex was born November 15, 1950 in Lansing, the :wn of Ivan Keith and Nancy Lee-(Hubbard) Tyler. He retired as. an ·engineer with Pasco Motofli in Eaton Rapids. Rex was ·,n_~ avid sportsman, enjoying hl;iuting, fishing, motocrOS$, f4lll(d completed the Dalmac i(W:tal times. He also loved muSic and was an excel­lent guiianst:'Preceded in death by his fathet, Ivan , and brother, Forrest Tyler ..

Rex is syt\'ived by his wife of 38. ye~ Virginia (Perez); daughter, Edla {Nathan Bogo) Tyler of Dimondale; son, Rick (Tiffany) Tyler of Tennessee; grandchildren, Jakob and Isaak Bogo, Cody Tyler, Payton Lyndsey; parents, Nancy and De Wayne Tyler of Charlotte; 3 brothers,• Keith Tyler, Donald Jyler, both of Reed City, Rockey Tyler of Eaton Rapids; 2 sisters, Toni (Dave) Kiss of Cheboygan, Penny (Dave) Wendie of Grand Ledge; and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service was held Saturday, June 9, 2007 at the Eaton Rapids Kingdorri

- Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses. Arrangements are by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids. www.shellyo­

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LOREN RICHARD SMITH Loren Richard Smith, age

58, of Port Orange, FL, passed away June 5,. 2007. He was born December 3, 1948, in Chicago, the son of the late George H. and Mary Smith of Eaton Rapids. He was raised in Michigan where he graduated from Niles Senior High in 1967. He enlisted in the Anny and served as a Military

. Policeman. Following his dis­charge, he moved to, Daytona Beach in 1974. Loren's father was a Michigan State Trooper. He followed in his father's footsteps in law enforcement in 1976 when he was hired with the Volusia County Sheriff's Department. During his service he was awarded the Medal of Valor and the Merit Medal for his service to the department and citizens of Volusia County. He was a member of the Honor Guard for over ten years, and the SWAT team for 23 years, in which he received two unit commendations for actions taken during high stress SWAT responses. The SWAT team members have lost a friend and a brother. After 30 years of service, he retired with the ra,nk of Sargeant. Loren loved being a dedicated and loving father. He enjoyed the beach and sail­boarding. His most special times were with his family, camping at Disney World or spending time at the family cot­tage on Fishers Lake in Three Rivers, Michigan.

He will be sadly missed by his wife, Shirley; children, Kristen Bies and 12 year-old son, Loren M. Smith (Buddy); his three brothers, George (Maureen) of Daytona Beach, Dan (Kim) of Eaton Rapids and Mike (Julie) of Lansing.

There was a celebration of his life on June 11, in Daytona Beach. A trust fund has been established to benefit his son "Buddy", c/o Landis Graham & French, 444 Seabreeze Blvd., Suite 1001, Daytona Beach, FL 32118.

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LEO ALLEN KINYON Leo Alleij-.Kinyon, age 81,

wenl lo be ~ his Lora on Sunday, June IO, 2007. Leo was . born on December 19, 1925 to Benjamin and Mabel (DeMann) Kinyon in Eaton Rapids, Michigan. He was preceded in dealh by his son, Randy Kinyon in 1983. Leo \Y()rked on the family farm and was employed by General Motors for over 34 years, retiring in 1982. He also served in the United States Army during World War II. Leo enjoyed spending time with family, supporting his kids and grandkids by attending various sporting events, working in his garage, NASCAR, Tigers base­ball and mowing bi~ lawn.

Leo is survived by his lov­ing wife, Marilyn, of 54 years, 2 daughters, Sue (Steve) Nobach of Eaton Rapids, Kate (Marv) Payne of Grand Rapids, MI; son, Tim (Randi) Kinyon of Charlotte, NC, 9 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren and sev­eral nieces and nephews.

The family will be served through Skinner Funeral Home 315 S. River Street in Ealo~ Rapids. Visitation for family will be loday from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Open visitation will be from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be . held Wednesday, June 13, at 1:00 p.m. at lhe First Baptist Church located at 9220 Kinneville Road in Eaton Rapids. Internment will be at the Oakwood Cemetery. www.skin­nerfuneralhome.com. J/l,,.. ,,LU4-~ /1..l ftry ~·

Thomas A. Taylor Eaton Rapids Ml

Age 71. ~~ssed away on Thurs­day, }uQe; 14, 2007 at home, surrounded by · lot~ fami­

lyi ~· was com Jilly 26, 1935 in Bellvue, PA, the son of Benjamin and Katherine

(Waldinger) Taylor. As a small boy, Tom began his passion for woodworking, beginning with the Soapbox Derby and contin­ued to build fine furniture heir­looms throughout his life. He and his life-partner Patricia con­tinued a family seasonal tradi­tion by working the apple trees on the family farm at Granny's Orchard in Eaton Rapids. Tom was employed with General Mo­tors for 37 years, wearing many hats: tool designer, supervisor, and senior engineer. He was also an avid Ohio State Buckeye fan. Of all Tom's accomplishments, he would say that his family was the most imJ;>ortant, with Patri­cia firmly by his side. He was an extremely honest, generous, and loyal person. Tom was very lov­ing, caring, and assionate in all he did, espe · towards his family. He VI .truly coura-ge01.~. spitjt strong man. H~ • lov y and will be y Tom loved, h ~ shed his wife of s, Pa ia. Also surviv-in bis. children, Chris (Michael~ Chapman, Thomas, Jr. (Kim), and Jennifer (Jeffrey) Higel; 8 granclChildren, Erin, Ab­by, Ben, Brandy, Kyle, Samara, Lmdsey, and Zachary; his great­granddaughter, Kaitlyn; brother, Paul (Karen), and sister, Nancy (Dameron) Miller; faithful com­panion Sara; special friends Howard and Cheryl Baldwin. A Celebration of Tom's life will be held Monday, June 18th at , 11:09 a.m., at the Palmer,· Bush&: Jensen Family Funer­al Homes, Holt/Delhi Chapel, with Pastor Andy Croel officiat­ing. ltlterment will follow at Deepdale Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Sun-

. day, June 17th from 6-8 p.m. at the funeral home. The family \VOUld like to especially thank the staff of the Breslin Cancer Center and Sparrow Hospice Services for their compassion and the care they gave to not on­ly Tom, but to the entire Taylor · family. For those wishing, me­morials may be sent to the the Breslin Cancer Center or Spar­row Hospice Services. Friends may sign Tom's guestbook at: www.palmerb~sh.com. )...~

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Walter Martin Mulkey Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 97, passed away Saturday, June 16, 2007 m Lansing. Born in Oklahoma on September 12, 1909, Walter Mulkey farmed with his family and neighbors before traveling to Michigan

where he. worked many jobs be-fore opening a used car lot which quickly pro~essed into ~ new car lot, selling Plymouth and DeSoto cars. Soon he ex­panded his. business to include farm machinery, home applian­ces, real estate, etc. After many years of successful business he sold. the business and bec;m;_e a

. Stock· Broker in Lansing. Walter retired to his farm in Eaton Rap­ids where he continued to divide and sell property. Our beloved father ana grandfather will be dearly missed. Preceded in death by his son, Gene Mulkey 0994); brother, Joe Mulkey; and sister, Eunice Selvey-Mulkey Walter is survived by 1 daughte; (with Ruby), porothy Mulkey, M.,P. of Flushingj l sbn (with Joyce), Jeff MUikey of East Lansing; and . Z gandchildren, Dauglas and Charlie Mulkey of Eaton Rapids. '11Deral services will be held · 12:00 Noon,

thWednesda_y, June 20, 2007 at

e Shelly-Odell Funeral Homez 518 S. Main, Eaton ltapias, with the Rev. Marty DeBow officiating. Interment will follow at Brickyard Ceme­tery,· Eaton Rapids. The family will receive friends and family on Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. at the Funeral Hom~. 1www~helly odell.com l.S.) " l~l "'1

WALTER MARTIN MULKEY

Walter Martin Mulkey of Eaton Rapids, age 97, passed away Saturday,.June 16, 2007 in Lansing. Botn in Oklahoma on September 12, 1909, Walter Mulkey farmed with his family and neighbors before traveling to Michigan where he worked many jobs before opening a used car lot, which quickly pro­gressed into a new car lot, sell­ing Plymouth and Desoto cars. Soon he expanded his business

_to include farm machinery, home appliances, real estate, etc. After many years of suc­cessful . business, he sold lhe business and became a Stock Broker in Lansing. Walter retired to his farm in Eaton Rapids where he continued to divide and sell property. Our beloved father and grandfalher will be dearly missed. Preceded in death by his son, Gene Mulkey (l 994); brother, Joe Mulkey; and sister, Eunice Selvey-Mulkey. -

Walter is survived by l daughter (with Ruby), Dorothy Mulkey, M.D. of Flushing; 1 son (wilh Joyce), Jeff Mulkey of East Lansing; 2 grandchil­dren, Dooglas and Charlie Mulkey of Eaton Rapids.

Funeral services will be held 12:00 Noon; Wednesday, June 20, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids, with Rev. Marty DeBow officiating. Interment will follow at Brickyard Cemetery, Eaton Rapids. The family will receive friends and family on Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. at the FuneraJ Home .• www.shellyodell.com. FlM/tu

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LEON JACK GEMALSKY Leon Jack Gemalsky, age

66 of Eaton Rapids died Monday, June 18, 2007 at his resi<knce fol1owing a ·terminal illness. Born Septeinber 15, 19401n Aurelius Township one ot'9 children born to" Julius and Emma ·(Keehn) Gemalsky. Leon was an Eaton Rapids HighiSchool Graduate, class of 1958 and served in the Army during the . Viet Nam War .. He was. a retired Optician for Lansing Cooperative Society. Leon enjoyed yard work, golf­ilig,' and going to the casino. Preceding him in death were 7

. brothers and sisters. He is -surviv~d by his wife

of 43 years, . Judith; daughter, Lorraine (James) Larder of Eaton R(\pids and sister, Gertrude N"rris of Eaton Rapids; numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial services were held June 25th at from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids with Rev. Stephen Klink, officiating. Burial of cre­mains will follow at the Rosehill Cemetery. For thqse desiring memorial contribu­tions may be made to either the American Diabetes Association or Sparrow Home Hospice in memory of Leon J. Gemalsky. For online condolences please visit skinne ne al

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GLENDA S. COOPER Glenda S. J Cooper of

Springport went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on June 23, 2007 under the lov­ing care of her family and Visiting Nurse Services of Michigan Hospice. Glenda was born on Seplember 17, 194 7. Glenda is survived by Alton, her husband of 43 years; daughter, Theresa (John) Bennett of Fowlerville; son, Randy (Angie) Cooper of Eaton Rapids; nine grandchil­dren; brother, Michael (Sue) Robertson of Lansing; and many nieces and nephews. Glenda was an active member of the Capitol City Baptist Church Deaf Ministry and was a loving and devoted wife and mother. She cherished her home and family and commit­ted her life to their care. She

· loved the outdoors, gardening, tending her lawn and flower beds, camping and walking in the woods. i]od blessed her family with·.an angel , and we now release ·ber back into the arms of her 1oving Savior. We are ndl saying goodbye, but see you sbon when Jesus returns to take His children home to Heaven. God bless her sweet spirit. She.wj!l al\\{ays be in our hearts with golden memories of times gone by.

"Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her. Many daughfers have done virtuously, b~t tho.u : excelles.t them all. Give 'her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates." Rest now, my love, in the arms of Jesus until we. meet again.

A memorial service will be conducted for family and friends at the Capitol City Baptist Chur<:h Deaf Chapel, 5100 Willoughby, Holt, Michigan on Saturday, June 30th at 10:00 a.m. with the Rev. Erwin Robertson officiating. In

. lieu of flowers, memorial dona­tions may be made in Glenda's memory to the Capitol City Baptist Church Deaf Chapel. Arrangements by the Shelly-

JACK J~ PAQU.i;TTE Jack Jerome·p;aqll;ite, 69, of

Traverse City, formerly of Eaton Rapids and Wolverine went to be with his Lord and savior, Jesus Christ, Thursday, May 17, 2007, at Tendercare in Traverse City. He lived a very courageous life, battling many serious health issues. Jack was the son of Edwin Francis and Leona May (Dillingham) Paquette, born December 23, 1937 in Eaton Rapids. Jack answered tlie call of duty serv-

· ing in the United States Military. lie .was a long time resident of. the Lansing area until relocating to Wolverine, MI were he was a police officer for Tuscarora Township. From a young age Jack had a passion for the outdoors, spending time hunting, trapping and fishing. He continued his enjoyment with nature, camping for many years with his family and more recently traveling in his RV. Jack was a gunsmith and avid gun collector. He had a wonder­fully unique sense of humor that has :~secl on through the fam~lr .. . Ht; . will be greatly miss~ . · •

J;~1S:'survived by his two sons, Ed (Chantel) Paquette of Gaylord, ~ch. Paquette of · Traverse Ciry, his daughter, Shelly (Dave) Guernsey of Traverse City, his fom1er wife, Irene · (RoySton), his mother, Leona Cadge{ of Eaton Rapids, a sister, Shirley Johnson of Eaton ~apids, an aunt, Neola Paquette of P-etoskey, eight .grandchildren, three great­grandchildren, and several other loving family members and friends and his little dog Peanut. Jack was preceded in death by his father, Edwin and two infant grandchildren.

··Memorial services were held on June 24, '2007 at New Hope Community Church with Rev. Tim Manzer officiating. Memorial Contributions may be directed to Cherryland jlumane Society. The family is being served by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. www.reynolds­jonkhoff.com Pl~.i.-

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ROBERTA H.TIDD Roberta Ji."¥ridd, age 93 of

'ijolt, form1{t~~ent ~n~r· and C<Aowtter, M1ch1gan p~ssed awa·{Wednesday; June: 20 2007 an.he Courts of Holt', .H~lt Ml. :sti.C·:was bont March 29 1914. ilri- Hardin County, Ohlo to C~J 'C. and F. Nelle (Ford) .H~am. On September 19 -19351nAOit. Ohio she mar­ried RBymon<! t:. Tidd who pre­ceded her iil death February 25, 1990. R~a graduated from Alger Ohio High School in 1932, she 3ttended Ohio Northern University · and Western Michigan 411iversity. She came_ to Michigan from Ohlo in 1937 and taught school in Homer and Litchfield before taking a teaching position at the_ ColdwateE.- State .Home & Training School. She retired June 28 · 1975 .Uter 44 years of service 'there. 1loberta was a member:of the Homer United Methodist Church.

She is survived by two sons, James W. (Shirley) Tidd of Springport, R. "Gene" liugene (Pat) Tidd. of; Eaton Rapiqs; four grandchildren; nine great­grandchildren; eleven great great-grand<'.hildren; a sister, Wilda L. (Fpmk M.) Mench of Galesburg. She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers and a sister.

Funeral se(Vil:es were held on June 24,' 2007 at the Homer Chapel of Tid~-Williams Funeral Chapels with the Rev. Mark Mitchell ·:.officiating. Burial followed at ~-Fairview Cemetery, Hom!!f '{i>woship, Michigan. Assistance· with the memorial contributio1,1s f9r the United Methodist Church of Homer or In-House . Hospice Solutions are available at the funeral home. Arrangements Entrusted to the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, 303 S. Hillsdale, Homer, Michigan. www.tid­dwilliams.com Fl 0-.4.lua.

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Odell Funeral Home, Eaton ~=,,,.--====,,,--~----.---------------------= !*---------===='""""': 0_~_;_d ,._.___. ,._..__... 1- ,.._u~--1-- 11

Albert William Spmce Eaton Rapids, Ml

Albert was born in Baraga, Michigan on Ju-

... l~MA ly 10, 1912. He 11'.!.o..>f!l''~·"f' went to be with

the Lord on June 26, 2007 at the age of 94. His wife Gladys, . his daughter Patr~-

w cia Porter, his sons Albert F. Spruce and Ron Spruce preceded Al in death. Surviving are his daughters, Bet­ty Dotts of Lansing and Linda Austin of Flint. He had many grandchildren, great­grandchildren and great-great­grand children. He worked for General Motors in. ~ansing for 30 years. Upon retmng, he en­joyed writing for the Ona~ay, Michigan newspaper, huntmg, fishing, bowling and playing the viollil u4 saxophone. At the age of 85,.he wrote a book abou! his life when he was {o~g, titl~d "The Early Years. His. famµy and his many fnends will 1!1~ss his love, humor an:Jtod ~l'mts very much. The f tmUY will re­ceive friends on Saturday, July 7, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. at t.he United Methodist Church in Zeba, Michigan followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. A memo­rial service will be held in Lans­ing at a later date. Special thanks and '!Ppreciation to all who cared Jor him. LS..) '1 j \ I 1:>1

Beverly Ruth Bodell Cove, AR . Formerly of Eaton Rapids, Ml Age 77, passed away June 27, 2007 in ArkanSBS. Beverly Wll;S born in St. JoseJ_Jb County, Indi­ana, the d;tught,er of Floyd and Martha (Maftins) Athony. She was ·a ( onner member of the American led cross, foster par­ent to 53 !Ya~~ and vo~unteer at Lansing Geneial lf~spital. Bev­erly was preceded m death by her hus'band ·. •&f 53 years, Wallace aha son, Dennis Bodell (1999). 'she jj. survived by 1 daughter, Miu'.~ (Thomas) Ba­ker of Arkansas: son, Wallace J. R. (Cherry) Bobell of Albion; 5 grandchildren; 10 great­grandchildren; 1 great-great­granddaughter; and aunt, Janette Joseph of Nashville. Services Will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 3, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Ho~e, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids with interment following at East Lawn Memory, Gardens, Okemos. Her fanuly will receive friends and family on Monday from 4-6 p.m. at the Funeral Home. w\\TW.shellyodell.com i.~..l l/~/01

Ruth Arlene Higbie L/~ Eaton Rapids, Ml 1 gjo7

Age 80, passed l'eacefully into the arms of Je­sus on Friday, July 6, 2007. Botn March 22, 19'1f1 Ruth was a lifelong · resi­dent' of Eaton Rapids. She married Robert Randall Higbie

on June 21, 1945 and was a mem­ber of the Eaton Rapids Church of the Nazarene. Preceded in death by her mother Doris (Jol).es) Smart and father Edward Smart and sisters, Evelyn Brazill, Ellen Reasoner, Norma Satterlee, Betty Marquardt. Her life revolved around her hus­band of 62 years and her five daughters, Sonia (John) Oatley of Lansing, Claudia (Dwight) Payne of South Carolina, Nanette Doxsie (Terry Ranshaw) of Chai:lotte, MI, Theresa (Phil) Treadwell of Flushing, MI, Sherrel (Kevin) Crawley of Davidson, MI; three sisters, Vera (Tom) Belen of 1

Westphalia, Ml, Helen (Jim) , Harris of Swartz Creek, Leota (Bob) Strobel of Eaton Rapids; and two brothers, David (Mar­tha) Smart of Holt, Robert (Ro­sie) Smart of The Village!_s, FL. Funeral services · will be Tuesday, July 10 at 1;00 p.m. from the Church of the Nazarene at 2225 S. Michigan Rd., Eaton ltapfds. Family will receive friends at the church Monday evenin~ from 6-9 p.m. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Church of the Nazarene. For online condolences please visit SkinnerFuneralHome.com

LEONE BALDWIN Leone Baldwin, age 90 life

resident of Onondaga died Thursday, June 28, 2007 at the Eaton Community Hospice in Charlotte. - She was born Nove~i; 16, · 1916 in Onondaga_ Township the-daugh­ter of .Qwles and Florence (Andress): ~ark. Mrs. Batawin worked 'at~iigside her bUsband Ralph on the family Centennial farm. She was a member of the Onondaga Community Church, Eaton County Farm Bureau and the Order of tQe Eastern Star formerly of Onondaga. She enjoyed bird watching and her cats and was. ll doting grand­mother. Prece<lln,g her in death was her husband in 1995, Ralph Baldwin.

She is survived by her 2 daughters, Carol Buxton of Onondaga and Patricia Connell of Ft. Wayne, IN; 6 grandchil­dren, Kara Sue Buxton of Leslie, Darcy (Ernie) Thilo of Onondaga, Jeffery Edward (Trasey) Buxton of Poquoson, VA, Brent Lee Connell of Ft. Wayne, IN, Tedd Timothy (Stephanie) Connell of Carmel, IN, and Beth Lynn (Roland) Mader of Maricopa, AZ; 7 great-grandchildren; and spe­ci.ail friend, Rose Casler of Oaondaga.

Funeral services were held Monday, July 2 from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton ~pids with Rev. William

·Muller, officiating. Burial fol-lowed in the Onondaga Cemetery. Pallbearers were Herb Poleski, Warren Nobel, Bud Smith, Neil Sanford, Howard Haven and Robert Collins. f= IMJ~ / J 3/Dl

IDA MAY (LAWTON) STOUFFER

Ida May (Lawton) Stouffer of Onondaga, passed away on Friday, June 29, 2007 at Ingham Regional Medical Center after a short battle with cancer, she was 76 years old. Ida wa ' a life member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Springport VFW. She loved the outdoors, hunting and fishing and was a tomboy through and through. She was preceded in death by her par­ents, Edgar and Jane Lawton; 2. sisters and 2 brothers.

She is survived by John, her husband of 52_years; six daugh­ters, Gledt)a (David) Fugate of Tompkins, Jane Stouffer -of Jackson, Tere11a (Jeff) Brown of Springport, Sue (Carl) Hoag of Springport, Kathy (Bob) Harris of Albion and- Diana (Corky) Helm of Springport; ten grand­children, Matthew (Paula) Fugate, Richard Fugate, Angela (Chris) Brock, Alliso'n Hamilton. icofe _ Fitch, Kaitlynd pd Lucas Helm, Carlee, John and Jerry Hoag; a great~grandson, Chance Brock; a sister, Nancy Yahn.ka; and a brother, Don Lawton, both of Springport, and numerous .nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at the Springport VFW on Tuesday, July 3 at 11 :00 a.m. with Pastor Bob Doner officiat­ing. Interment will follow at Tompkins Cemetery. For those who wish, memorial contribu­tions may be made to the Adams-Rockey Post 6056 Ladies Auxiliary. P/~

"11~/07

BEVERLY RUTH BODELL Beverly Ruth Bodell of

Cove, AR, fonnerly of Eaton

Rapids, age 77, passed away

June 27• 2007 in Arkansas. Beverly was born in St. Joseph

County, Indiana, the daughter of Floyd and Martha (Martins)

Athony. She was a former

member of the American Red

Cross, foster parent to 53

babies and volunteer at Lansing

General Hospital. Beverly was

preceded in death by her hus­

band of 48 years, Wallace, and son, Dennis Bodell (1999).

She is survived by I daugh­ter, Marilyn (Thomas) Baker of

Albion; son, Wallace J.R.

(Cherry) Bodell of Albion; 5

grandchildren; Jo great-grand­

children; I great great-grand­daughter; aunt, Janette Joseph of Nashville.

Services were held Tuesday July 3, 2007 at the SheIJy-Odeli

Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids.

Interment followed at East

Lawn Memory Gardens Okemos. www.shel~odell .com' F [~ I //t>/C>']

~ ELMER F. REYNOLDS . Elmer F. Reynolds of Leslie

pas~ed away at home under th~ loving care of his family and

2h00osp7ice, on Thursday, July 5, . , at the age of 77.

He is survived by his two ~augh~.ers,. Bernice (Karl G~be ) Gibbs of Leslie, Floria

(Mike) Franklin, daughter-in­la~, Tina Cotton, seven grand­c~ldren, Cinnamon, Michael, Tiffany, Solomon, Samantha (Russell), Shane, and Trish eight great-grandchildren, fou; brothers, John, David, Harley, and Kenneth, two sisters, Betty Mulkey and Jaydine Studer, and numerous nieces and nephews. H~ was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Lou Reynolds and

·one son, Floyd Henry Reynolds. Funeral services were held

at the J. C. Adams Funeral Home on July 9, 2007 with Pastor Mark Eckert officiating. Cremation will follow. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the family to

Jielp with the final expenses. rl~ 1f1e>/01

It

ROBERT J. HILLARD Robert J. Hillard of

Lansing, age 47, passed away after losing his battle with leukemia on June 28, 2007. Robert was born July 5, 1959, the son of Thomas and Leona (Disbrow) Hillard. He graduat­ed from Eaton Rapids High Schoo·( and Michigan State University. Robert was the Food Service Manager at Otto Middle School and was a member of Riverview Community Church. He loved to read.

He is survived by his wofe, Brenda (Young), married in Grand Rapids in 1983; 3 chil­dren, Lindsey of Jackson, Kelli and Eric of Lansing; his father, Thomas (Brenda) Hillard of Lansing; mother, Leona (Bob) Barker of Eaton Rapids; 2 brothers, Everett and Wiilia·1; 3 sisters, Janice Lambrix, k , Garcia and Erin Hillard; many nieces and nephews.

Services were held Tuesday, July 3, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funderal Home in Eaton Rapids, and interment followed at Greenwood Cemetery, Aurelius. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to American Cancer Society or Ingham Hospice in memory of Robert Hillard. Fl~

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MARY LOU BUGBEE Mary Lou Bugbee of

Mason, MI, age 56, died Wednesday, June 27, 2007. Mary Lou was born September . 19, 1950 in Jackson, the daugh­ter of Lewis and Elsie (Chatfield) Bugbee. She was an EMT for Hayes Green Beach ambulance and later worked as an orderly at Ingham Medical Center.

She is survived by her moth­er, Elsie Bugbee of Mason; sis­ter, Julie (Michael) Brandt of Eaton Rapids; brother, Wilbam (Marion)Bugbee of Mason; 2 nephews, Mike and Hi I Brandt· and several aunts, rn cl ·s. imd cousins.

Services were held !o 1 lay, July 2, 2007 at the Shu h ')dell Funeral Home, Eaton •1 1<.ls, with Rev. Steve Ai • 111 of Aurelius Baptist Church 1lfici­ating. Memorial contrihutions may be made to A urelius J?aptist Church in memory of Mary Lou Bugbee. F/aa,Jt.I..()..

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RUTH ARLENE HIGBIE

Ruth Arlene Higbie, age

80 of Eaton Rapids passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on Friday July 6, 2007. Born March 22, 1927 Ruth was a life long resident of Eaton Rapids. She married Robert Randall Higbie on June 21, 1945 and was a member of the Eaton Rapids Church of the Nazarene. Preceded in death by her mother Doris (Jones) Smart and father Edward Smart; sisten-. Evelyn Brazill, Ellen Reasoner, Norma Satterlee, Betty Marquardt.

Her life revolved around her husband of 62 years and her five daughters, Sonja (John) Oatley of Lansing, Claudia (Dwight) Payne of S.C. , . Nanette Doxsie (ferry Ranshaw) of Charlotte, MI. , Theresa (Phil) Treadwell of Flushing, MI., Sherrel (Kevin) Crawley of Davidson, Ml.; 13 grandchildren and 30 great grandchildren; Three sisters, Vera (Tom) Belen of Westphalia, Ml., Helen (~im) Harris of Schwartz ~reek,

· Leota (Bob) Strobel of Eaton Rapids. Two brothers, David (Martha) Smart of Holt, Robert (Rosie) Smart of The Villages, FL.

Funeral services will be Today, July 10 at I :OOPM from the Church of the Nazarene at 2225 S. Michigan Rd. Eaton " Rapids. Visitation was held at the church Monday evening from 6pm-9pm. For those desiring, memorial contribu­tions 111ay be made to the

•Church of the Nazarene. For online condolences please visit SkinnerFuneralHome.com ~ '1/1.,{D7

•

BEATRICE ALINE MCCARTHY-MORLEY

Beatrice Aline McCarthy­

Morley went to be with her Lord and Savior July 2, 2007 just 27 days before her 96th birthday. She was born July 29, 1911 to Edwin Earl and Hattie Aline (Angell) Wheeler . in Battle Creek, Mich. She was married to Ross W. McCarthy in 1928. She resided from 1937 on a farm Northwest of Leslie, MI. with her husband and girls.

She is survived by 3 daugh­ters, June (James) Swan of Eaton Rapids, MI. Loraine (Walter) Murphy of Dandridge, Tenn. and Carol (Donald) Vandeventer of Michigan Center, Ml. Eight Grandchildren, twenty Great Grandchildren and twelve Great Great Grandchildren. One brother, Edwin Earl Wheeler Jr. of Traverse City, MI. Also many nieces and nephews. She worked 23 years for the state of Michigan and retired in 1967. Then worked

. for Dart National Bank until -\973. Preceded in death by her parents, one brother, Richard Dale Wheeler, and one sister, Donna Marie Chadwell. Husband Ross \: . McCarthy in 1969 arid husb<:.nd Robert L. Morley in 1976 also two infant grandsons. ·she was a life member of the Order of The Eastern Star Mason Chapter #150. A member of the South Lansing Christian Church. She loved all types of cards, bingo and dancing and received many trophies and plaques for ball room dancing. She spent 18 happy winters in Mesa, Arizona. She loved her large

I family. • Services were held at

Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids on Thursday. The Reverend Steve Klink gave the service. Iu · lieu of flowers, make donations to the Eaton Community Hospice of Charlotte, MI. or any organiza­tion of your choice. F/ tt.S/1.,vJ,

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MARION PAULINE SMITH Marion Pauline Smith of

Eaton Rapids, age 91, passed away June 25, 2007 in Battle Creek. Marion was born September 3, 1915 in Barry County, Michigan, the daughter of Frank and Clara A. (Warner) Wilkes. She worked as a clerk in retail sales. Marion was pre­ceded in death by her husband, Milford C. Smith (1987); broth­er, Clare F. Wilkes (1988); infant sister, Frances Wilkes; and step-son, Lloyd Smith.

She is survived by 1 step­son, Clare Smith; sister-in-law, Rhea Wilkes of Bellevue; and nephew, Chris Wilkes of Bellevue.

Funeral services were held on June 28. 2007 at the Shelly­Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids with Rev. Darwin Kuhl officiating. Interment followed at Rosehil I Cemetery, Eaton Rapid . Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one's choice in memory of Marion Pauline Smith. www.s_hellyodell.c r: [ a,o.,JJA.-

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DUANE ERIC GAULT Duane Eric Gault, age 48 of

Eaton Rapids, died Monday July 9, 2007. He was born November 30, 1958 in Saginaw, the son of Robert and Nancy (Harley) Gault.· Duane was a Leslie High School graduate, class of 1977. He served his country in the Navy during the Iran/Contra Conflict. Duane was. a Tool & Die Maker for Edsha Manufacturing for the past 15 years in Jackson. He was an avid out-doors-man who loved fishing, had a good sense of humor and was an excellent cook. Preceding him in death was his mother, Nancy; and a brother Danny.

Surviving are his wife of 27 years, Laurie; 2 children~ Jessica (Justin) Wright of Eaton Rapids and Eric (Andrea Brewer) Gault of Eaton Rapids; 2 grandchildren, Alyssa and Logan; father, Robert (Kathy) Gault of Wellston, MI; 4 broth­ers, David (Tammy) Gault of Leslie, Dennis (Dawn) Gault of Colorado, Ray (Sandy) Gault of Eaton Rapids and Gary Gault of North Dakota; sister, Robin Lohrke of Leslie; several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces anµ nephews.

Funeral services were held Friday, July 13, 2007 at 11 :00 A.M. from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring memorial contri- . butions may be made directly to the family in memory of Duane E. Gault. For online condo­lences please visit SkinnerFuneralHome.com FltwN.4 '7/17/0/

1...SJ l /11/cn Duane Eric Gault Eaton Rapids

Age 48 of Eaton Rapids died Monday, July 9, 2007. Born Novem­ber 30, 1958 in Saginaw, the son of Robert and Nancy (Harley) Gault. Duane was a Leslie High School

graduate, class o' 1977. He seryed his country in the Navy dunng the Iran/Contra Conflict. He was a member of UAW Local 670. Duane was a Tool & Die Maker for Edsha Manufacturing for the past 15 years in Jackson. He was an avid out-doors-man who loved fishing, had a good sense of humor and was an ex­cellent cook. Preceding him in death was his mother, Nancy; and a brother Danny. Surviving ar~ his wife of 27 years, Laurie; 2 children, Jessica (Justin) Wright of Eaton Rapids and Eric (Andrea Brewer) Gault of Eaton Rapids; 2 grandchildren, Alyssa and Logan; father, Robert (Ka­thy) Gault of Wellston, MI; 4 brothers, David (Tamlhy) Gault of Leslie, Dennis (Dawn) Gault of Colorado and Ray (Sandy) Gault of E~ton Rapids, Gary Gault of North Dakota; sister, Robin Lohrke of Leslie; several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. Funeral services will be Friday July 13, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. Family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday evening from 7-9 p.m. For those desiring memorial contributions mar, be made di­rectly to the family in memory of Duane E. Gault. For online condolences please visit SkinnerFuneral Home.com

George Albert Lambert Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 83, died Tuesday,' July 10, 2007 at his residence fol­lowing a termin­al illness. Born August 15, 1923 in Eaton Rapids the son of Hen­ry and Evelyn (Parks) Lambert.

George served in the Army dur­ing World War II and retired

· from Fisher Body in Lansing after 42 years of service. He was a member of the U.A.W. Local #602 and a member of the A.Jfl.erican Legion Post #15. George was an avid fisherman and bowled on many different leagues in Eaton Rapids. Preced­ing him in death were 3 sisters, Rose Marie, Maxine and Lucille and a brother, Roland. Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Beverly; 4 children, Stanley Lambert of Bellevue, David (Patricia) Lambert of Nashville, Kathy (William) Oakley Sr. of Onondaga and Brenda Richard­son of Eaton Rapids; 18 grand­children and 18 great­grandchildren; brother, Robert (Rena) Gillett of Eaton Rapids; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be Sa­turday, July 14, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. from the Skinner Funer­al Home in Eaton Rapids with burial following at Rosehill Cemetery. Family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. For online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHome.com LSJ fl/IUD_./,_

GEORGE ALBERT LAMBERT

George Albert Lambert, age 83 of Eaton Rapids, died Tuesday, July IO, 2007 at his residence following a terminal illness. He was born August 15, 1923 in Eaton Rapids the son of Henry and Evelyn (Parks) Lambert. George served in the Army dur- · ing World War II and retired from Fisher Body in Lansing after 42 years of service. He was a member of the U.A.W. Local #602 and a member of the American Legion Post #15. George was an avid fisherman and bowled on many different leagues in Eaton Rapids.

Preceding him in death were 3 sisters, Rose Marie, Maxine and Lucille and a brother Roland . Surviving are his wif~ of 53 years, Beverly; 4 children, Stanley Lambert of Bellevue, David (Patricia) Lambert of Nashville, Kathy (William) Oakley Sr. of Onondaga and Brenda Richardson of Eaton Rapids; 18 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren; brother, Robert (Rena) Gillett of Eaton Rapids and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Saturday, July 14, 2007 at 2:00 P.M. from the Skinner Funeral Home.in Eaton R~pids with bur­ial following 'at Rosehill Cemetery. For online condo­lences please v1s1t www.SkinnerFuneralHome.com Fl~ 1/1_1 loJ

LILLIAN MOFFITT Lillian Moffitt, age 85 of

Eaton Rapids, passed away Saturday, July 14, 2007 in Lansing. Lillian was born August 27, 1921 in Jackson, Michigan, the daughter of Charles and Margaret (Raymer) McGilvra. She was a member of the Eaton Rapids Nazarene Church and a mem­ber of the Eaton Rapids Senior Center.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Russell E., Sr.; 2 grandchildren, Tim Squires and Cindy Jones. Lillian is sur­vived by 3 daughters, Deanna (Darrell) Alldaffer of Eaton Rapids, Carol (Earl) Jones of Eaton Rapids, and Bobbie Felkey of Howell ; son, Russell, Jr. (Ruth) Moffitt of Eaton Rapids; 16 grandchil­dren; 29 great-grandchildren; 3 great- great-grandchildren; and sister, Maxine Miller of Eaton Rapids.

Funeral services will be held at 11 :00 a.m. Tuesday, July 17, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids, with Pastor Dallas McFarland officiating. Interment will follow at Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids. T~ose desiring may make memorial contributions to the Nazarene Church of Eaton Rapids, in memory of Lillian Moffitt. www.she)lyo-dell .com ( LCl/.YtV/.J \

I 1'1/{)'7

KEVIN D. FREEMAN Kevin D. Freeman, age 42

of Eaton Rapids, died Thursday, July 12, 2007 at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. Mr. Freeman was born April 15, 1965 in Lansing, a son of Roger D. and Joyce K. (Closson) Freeman.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Joyce in 200 I. Surviving are his wife, Cara; 3 children, Corey (Jennifer) Freeman, Curtis Freeman and Christine Freeman, all of Eaton Rapids; a grandson, Dominic Freeman; his father, Roger (Kelly) Freeman of Charlotte; 3 sisters, Kim (Dan) Rugg, Kelly Jo Freeman and Faith Freeman, all of Charlotte; his brother, Garrett Freeman of Charlotte; several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Memorial services were held Monday at Crossroads Church of the United Brethern in Christ in Charlotte with Rev. DeAnn Dobbs officiating. Arrange-ments were handled by Barker-Leik Funeral Home,

Mulliken. fl~n lo'1

LSJ '7/n I 01

Patrick Mitchell "Pat" Wojtacha Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 32, passed away Saturday, July 14, 2007 lil Eaton Rapids. Patrick was born in Detroit, Michigan on January 17, 1975, was a graduate of Holt High School, Class of · 1993, and was

emJ.>loyed as a journeyman elec­tr!c1~ with the .Lansmg School D1stnct. Patrick was a m~ber of IBEW Local 665 .and AFSCME Local 1390. Pat was a bicyclist an avid hunter, fisherman and outdoorsman. He loved animals. Preceded in death by his mother, Bernadette; he is survived by his fath.er, Mitchell (Brenda) Wo1tacha of Eaton Rapids· bro~her, Robert (Shari Goodwin) Wo1tacha of She~by Township; stepbrpther, TraV1s Hill of Eaton Rapids; girlfriend, Laura Reyes of Eaton Rapids; grandfather, Robert Mazurek of Washington Township; grandmother, Doro­thy W ojtacha of Hazel Park; and several aunts, uncles and cou­sins. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 19, 2007 at the Shelly­Odell Funeral Home, 518 s. ~' .Eaton . Rapids. His fa­mily will receive friends and family on Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. and Wednesday from 3-8 p.m. at the Funeral Home. Those desir­ing may make memorial contri­butions to the Capital Area Hu­mane Society in memory of Pa­trick W ojtacha. www.shelly odell.com

. . S) ~I\ Betty Ann Stlidel ~-'\ \ l 1

\

Eaton Rapids, Ml Age 61, passed away Sunday, July 22, 2007 in F.aton ~pidS. Betty was born December 14, 1945 in New Iberia, Louisiana, the daughter of Dale James and Betty Ann (Delcambe) Excell. She especially loved her family and enjoyed planting flowers. Betty is survived by her husband of 1S years, Sherman Spidel, of Eaton Rapids; da\lidlter, Judy Preston and son, Rooert (Missy) Preston, both of Eaton Rapids; 2 1 grandchildren, Beth Barker and Marissa (Johnny) Wyatt; mo­ther, Betty A Excell; and ex­husband, Robert Preston, Sr., all of Eaton Rapids. Services wW be held lliOO a.m. Wednes• dayh July 25 ~ at the · 1

· She y-Ocleft ome, 518 S. MalDi latill In-terment will follow Forest Lawn Memomd Gardens, Dimondale. The faaUll'~ re­ceive friends and family on Tuesda_y from 2-8 p.ni. at the Funeral Home. ~e desiring may make meJl)Qrial contribu -tions to the Bresllii Cancer Cen­

·ter in memory of Betty A. Spidel. www.shellyodell.com . · ·

WALTER D. WHALEN Walter· D. ~alen, age· 70,

of .ijaton Rapiis', - formerly of

N.ew'?en): ... di~d Jul¥ 9, 2007 at his ht?rne . .surroJJnded by his fami!y . . Mr ... W}J!llen was born Mar.oh 15, -1937 m Ashton Mlc!ligan, . son of .. ryde and Marion (Sly) Wl\alen.' Walter 'enjo.y~d lu~nti~ .and fishing and bad a g~t love for the out­doors. He Willi ~ret-ired carpen­ter with the Stale of Michigan and a member ·of the American Legion at Newbefiy.

He is survivdd ·oji. bit wife, Nancy; four children, Debra Jones of .Wellsville, Pennsylvania, Louanna (Jay) Hovorka of Charlotte, Walter "Buck" (Cheryl-) <Whalen and Richard (Nancy,) Whalen, both of Eaton Rapids~ JO giandchil­dren; 2 great-gr$tdlildren; four brothers, Wayne ;md Al Whalen, JIWJCS "JQ{f' Erickson and Richard HllQlmenl>erg; four sisters, Linda Stanaway, Cheryl Lotz, Gabriele~ Gaskins and Jackie Almay; n(eces and nephews.

A celebratiqn of his life will be held at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to Field & Leik Funeral Home

Dimondale. ry /3/ /CfJ "F{a.~ -

f \CL~ lu/.V Tuesday,. .f'fly 24, 2007

BETTY ANN SPIDEL Betty Ann Spi~ of Eaton . 6 " Rapids, age 1, d away

Sunday, July22,. ·-Charlotte. Betty was··~, ber 14,

1945 in New.'JP,fria, ·ana, the daughter of 0Me ·and Betty Ann (Delcaml>e).a8:ell. She espe­cially loved ~ylUld enjoyed planting flow'°'ers. t·

Betty is sfuviv• by her hus­band of 15 years, Sherman Spidel of Eaton Rapids; daughter, Judy Preston; and son, l_Wbert '(Missy) Preston, both of .Baton Rapid; 2 grandchildren, Beth Barker of Olivet and Marissa (Johnny) Wyatt of TN; mother, Betty A. Excell; and ex-husband, Robert Preston, Sr., all of Eaton Rapids.

Services will be held 11 :00 am. Wednesday, July 25, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids. Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, Dimondale. The family will . receive friends and family on Tuesday . from 2-8 p.m. at the Funeral Home. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Breslin Cancer Center in mem~ry of Betty A. Spidel. www.shellyodell.com.

Pl\Jlette "Polly" (O'Byme) R()(jgers Eaton Rapids, Ml

_, A.ge . 64, passed away Weqnes­day, July 2S: '2gQ7 m Eaton Rapids. Polly WP. born July 10, 1943 in Lan­sing, MI, the dau~ter of Harold Hiram and Pauline (Valleau) Hall.

She was the adored wife of Ro­bert, her husband of 18 years; the dearly loved methk of 3 daugh­ters, Galla Snyaer ·of Texas, Kel­ly O'Byrne of Florida, and Jennifer Johnson of Michigan; special "Mimi" to 10 grandchil­dren and 3 great- grandchildren; is known as a gracious and gen­erous sister to Betty Hill and brother, Delbert (Mercy) Hall of Michigan; and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her broth- . er, Donald Hall. Polly retired from General Motors in 2003 after 28 years of service. Mem­orial services will be held 6:00 p.m. Thursday, August ~L2~07 at her home, 200 I.an­smg St., Eaton Rapids. WWV{.shellyodell.coll)

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PAU~TTE "POLLY" (O'BYRNE) RODGERS

Paulette "Polly" (O'Byrne) Rodgef+.'J:J'Eaton Rapj$, age 64, pi:\SSed µway Wednesday, July-25.2007 in Eaton ~ids. Polfy' ~,ii()ln July 10, 1~3 in Lansjngi.. Mt. the dauglter of Harold- Hiram and Pauline (Vall~all.

She wat'tl!e adored wife of Robert, her h~sband or 18 years; the d¢arly loved mother of 3 daughtJrs, Gaila Snyder of TX, Kelly O 'Byrue of fL,' and Jennifer Johnson of MI; special . "Mimi" l9 lO ~11¥ldcltildten & 3 great grandchildren; is known as a gracious lmd' generons sis-ter to Betey-· :.and bcother, Delbert ( ~l of MI; many beklt nieces · & nephews. She was preceded in death by her l>r9ther, Donald Hall. Polly retired from General Motors in 2003 ·~er 28' years of service. ..

Memorial ser\>ices wi11 be held 6:00 1>.111.; Thursday, August 2, 2007 at- .her Jtome, lOO Lansing St, Eaton Rapids.

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SCOTT MUSIC Scott Music of Litcfttfcid,

MI formorly of Springport, age 79; passed away Saturday, August 04, 'JJJ07 in Mallihall. Scott was bliru September 20, · 1927 in Boo~ KY, the son

of Je.8se - Ooic teigh . (Whitaker}~ He gpei:ated

his own auto ]Jody ·shop in Brunsw~ck, GA., and. later worked for R.ed' Body Shop in Litchfield. J>redi)ed in death by his wife, Ruth Ann (Gibbons), and son, Larry Scott Music.

He is survived by l daughter, Brenda Kay Jolin of Litchfield; l son, Terry Lee Music of Coldwater; 5 grand­children, Jason and Angie Music, Michelle Music, ·Phillip Music and Darwin Eubank, III; 9 great-grandchildren; broth­ers, George Music of Eaton Rapids, Jeff (Henrietta) Music of Marshall; sister, Genoia "June" Lawson of Clifford, Ml; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Monday, August 6, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids. · lntCflllent followed at Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids. w~.shellyodell.com

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VICTOR E. MOSS V r Earl Moss, age ,

of ~· died ~ July 20, 26f[1 m Wildw was born in Springport, MJ~"ll~

a farmer in agricultur and worked at Eafop StampiDJJ-

He is SVJiived byil~ Marjorie.Gf ~s of B~I; son, Ronat'jt~ Kent (Cheryl) Moss of nell ; daughter, Lauraf i Kajt Dack of Hickory Corners, Mlt five grandchil­dren and .two great-grandchil­dren.

Arrangements by Purcell Funeral Home, Bushnell. Fla~ ~I o7

youilj~~ playing Hall ilf enjoye9 fisft rdlll.;.;,o;i;i, attending Aue riding motorcfeles, dra~ solving crossword puir.les aa.l travel­ing. SOll!e of Ray's numerous occupations included: meat cutctr, working for Wamer­Swazy, John Bean and Century 21. He wa& a driver for Michigan National Bank and for Neighbor Care .Pharmacy in Lansing. He also owned and operated a camp ground in Ludington, Michigan. Ray was preceded in death by his par­ents Nelson and H11ttie Hutchings who were known in the Eaton IUpids Community for their future business (Hutchings Furniture Co.).

Ray was a very gentle and caring individ bo will be missed greatly hii. family: si ter, Beverly Hutchmgs, nieces Julie (Eugene) Sharp

.and Tami (Steve) Senger; great nephew, Phil Sharp; great nieces, Jessica Shftil> and. Alys~ Senger, a8 w.~~ many friends from sch ~t~ and fellow neigh

A me ervice is planned . for' Sunday August 19th at 2pm at Rosehill Cemetery in Eaton Rapids. For online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHome.co m. Ff.a.g/U/.J B Jio7

Russell E. Gimmey L 3.) Eaton Rapids, Ml 'iS / 7 / 61

Age 70 of Eaton Rapids, passed away Saturday, Au­gust 4, 2007. Born August 20, 1936 the son of John and Helen (Hollenbeck) Gimmey. Rus­sdll worked 37

· years before c retiring from · General Motors,

was a carpenter, and also worked at Ed's Refinery for 20 years. Russ,llit...:. also enjoyed wood.wot~ p~~ding him in deatli are; ~ wi,fe, Ruth Ann (Casnet) ~. daughter,

· Laurie WellS{ .p nts; brother, Donald; s~ .Emlinger and Geral~i!ey. Survtv­in are 1iiS en, Audrey ctlm) Ritter, c .. tinalGimmey, Russell G~ey ,Jr.; 'gtandchil­dren, Willl~ iii.id wcas Ritter, Cory ~imm,~ ·~.andy Wells; brotht!r, Gerald; sisfer1 ~Margaret Weston; 8 great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews. For online condolences please visit www. SkinnerFuneralHome.com

JULIA MAE DA EV Julia Mae Dawley, age 85,

of Eatotl' Rapicjs Q_ied Saturday, Augtl$t_ l l, 2~~t a Lansing hospital. Born Juiy 4, J 922 in Aurelius Township the daugh­ter of Joseph Henry and Ev~rlioe (RathbuY.l Owen. Julia ret1red from' Lijnsirf!f' General tfospilat _ii:Y ~ping. She was ,a_ ~t;llllbe.( ~ ,f.ssembly of God 6.iurch in Eaton RapidJ» Pr~qg-h~i; in death .was ~er . h~~ of}.6 years, teo Dawly: · • · •

SM· is ' S'l'ifriVlld by her nieces and ,11~ws, Cheryl (Tom) Hanlijl of Eaton Rapids, Dick Dawley of California, Sandra (Ward} Oir of Eaton Rapids, Beverly (Leroy) Bouts of Eaton Rapids, Saundra (James) Scott'Of Baton Rapids, Lorra}c\e (Nathan) Clip-k of Eaton ~iu?ids alid J~net ~ent of Granct1titpiCl9; -sev~""great niec~~ nephews.

Funei-al services will be Wedn .Au&MStl5~ at 2:00 frotn ·tlie Sllhner Fune me in alton Itapids. Buriaf ~ill follow in the Munger· Cemetery in Eaton Rapids.. Otsket bearers will be Jeff Sanders, Ward Orr, John Sanders, Leroy Bouts, Robert Schultz and Dick Dawley. Family will- receive friends at the funeral home on 'Tuesday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. For those desiring memoriai contribu~ tions may be made to either the Assembly of God Churt:h or Gideons in memory of Julia M.

Dawley. 'J/1(/IJl /1ttr~

born·.,BmW Rap,~~~)n -~_,__,....

Mil . ij;*~--~lr. grad ;/iitn . High School, Class o and from MSU in 1976 with aB.A. Degree in Fine Arts. Tom con­tinued his love of art and paint­ing his whole life with his pri­vate collections throughout Michigan, Penns lvania and Florida. Re was. of the U.S. Navy, servt .. ng the Vietnam era. Tom retired from the City of . Lansing Public Service and retired from Eaton Rapids Public Schools in 2005. Thomas, "'ost :ol all loved his family, was an avid MSU Spartan fan, enjoyed music, movies, sports al'ld · . Ceding and watching Qf his ds. He was a member'(;f th~ United Metho<llsf • Eaton Rapids.

Tom is survived by his wife of almost 41 years, Rachel (Canedy); 2 daughters, Erin (Thomas) Simpson of Eaton Rapids and Lindsey (Ken Tripp) Spel)Cer of Charlotte; 5 gra~dchildren, Collin Spencer, Maiya Simpson , Dominic Simpson, Allison Simpson and Wynter Tripp; 2 sisters, Shirley Watkins of Eaton Rapids and Nanc¥~<f Mason; brothers and siSt'eh'-fo law, Bob and Sue Allen of Eaton Rapids, Richard R~ese of PA, Sally Canedy of Dimondale; and several nieces and nephews.

~lo..S~a ~f 21101 DONALD BLACKWELL

Donald Blackwell, age 80 of Eaton , Rapids died Monday, August 13, 2007 at a Lansing hospital with family present. He was born September 12 1926 in Benton Harbor, Mi~higan, the son of Herbert and Alice (Hemiscey) Blackwell. After gr~duating from Eaton Rapids High · School in 1944, he worked many years at Oldsmobile an der, and reti 1992 from LanDalet M ring. Don enjoyed huntidg, ri ing, read­mg, coin and pl collecting, and spending time with his family and friends. His mother and father, sister Jeannice Banks, brother Jim,· and son Alan preceded hiru in death.

He is survived by his sister Jeannette of Buchanan Michigan, sons Gayle (Marty) of Eaton Rapids and Don (Deb) of Battle Creek, grandchildren Steve (Julie) of DeWitt, Jeff of Missouri, Rob (JJ) of Virginia, Sara of Battle Creek, Jason (Kellie) of Lansing, Andy of Jackson , and - Amy of California, as well as 6 great grandchildren (Alex, Rachel, Evan, Austin , Katelyn and Jenna) and several nieces and nephews.

. Arrangements by the Ski~ner Funeral Horve in Eaton Rapids. There will~ no funer­al service. For th~e who so desire, · memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Rapids Public Library in mem­ory of Donald Gene Blackwell.

ANTHONY PETRAKOVITZ ithony Petrakovitz aoe

83, passed away Wedne~da"y August 15 in a Veteran; Hospital. He was born May 31 1924 in Craswell MI d, . , an resided in Eaton Rapids Township. He was preceded in death by h. . rs parents Vmcent and Francis Petrakovitz, 4 brothers and 2 sisters.

Tony served our country as a S. Sgt. of the Co ·1 21st A~y Infintry and received vanous medals and badges.

The funeral was held at the Veterans Hospital, 3000 Monroe Street Grand R .d Ml . , ap1 s,

. Donations can be sent to the National VFW Ho 35735 S. Waverly Rd. Ea%~ Rapids, MI. fl a..iku>

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Service w'!'ll be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, ~ugust 23, 2007 at the Sheffy-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with Rev. Marty DeBow of Robbins UMC of'.liciatin@.. The family will receive frterids ahd family on Wednesday from 12 noon until 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Robfiins United Methodist Church in memory of Thomas Spence~ ...................................... _,.~~~~====::='.~~~~~~

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DORIS MAY KIMMEL Doris May Kimmel, age 80,

passed away March 20, 2007 at her residence in Sahuarita, Arizona. She was born in 1926 in London, England one of 13 children born to Albert and Rose Dunn. She was formerly of Eaton Rapids and Lake Odesa and had lived in the Green Valley/Sahuarita area for the past 18 years. She moved to the United States in 1946 as a war bride to James Squires, who preceded her in death in 195 l. Doris was a longtime res­ident of Michigan, working as a Secretary for the Eaton Rapids High School for more than 20 years. She married Bob Kimmel in 1967 and spent win­ters in Arizona until becoming a full-time resident in 1989. Doris enjoyed her family, bowling and knitting. Preceding her in death were her husband Bob Kimmel in 1988.

She is survived by her chil­dren; Kathy Squires, Steve (Nadine} Squires and Judy Squires; step-children, Stan (Sue) Kimmel, Dick (Sharon) Kimmel, Harold Kimmel and . Pat Hearld; 12 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, Septmeber l, 2007 at the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids with the Rev. Stephen Klink, officiating. Family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to service time. Burial of cre­mains will take place at a later date in Meadowbrook Cemetery in Mulligan next to her husband Bob. For those desiring memorial contribu­tions may be made to the Odyssey Hospice, the American Cancer Society or to a char!!x, of your choice . ./,

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HELEN (CUPP) WHITTEMORE

Helen (Cupp) Whittemore of Tempe, Arizona passed away on July 25, 2007 at the age of 95. Helen was born in Eaton Rapids on May 5, 1912 to Don and Myrtie (Freer) Cupp. She mar­ried Merle W. Whittemore on May 23, 1931 and he preceded her in death on July 29, 1995. Helen and Merle were the origi­nal owners of the Whittemore Restaurant in Eaton Rapids. They moved to Arizona in 1952.

Helen is survived by her lov­ing children, Betty (Don) Bothwell of Sun Lakes, AZ and Merle W. (Glee) Whittemore, Jr. of Vallecito, CA.; her 6 grand­children; 12 great-grandchil­dren; I great great-granchild; brothers, Donald and Edmund Cupp; sister, Doris Long and sister-in-law, Rosamond Cupp all of Eaton Rapids. Her grand­daughter Wendy (Whittemore) Hunt, and brother Roy Cupp preceded her in death.

Interment will be in Vallee~ CA. 'bl ;;J.~/ 01

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JUANITA M. STRATTON Juanita M. (Adams-Wilson)

Stratton, age 98, formerly of Wyoming, was called to her heavenly home on Saturday, August 25, 2007. She was pre­ceded in death by her husbands, Walter Wilson of 32 years, and Ray Stratton of 22 years; her children, Jean Marie, Carolyn June, Herbert Edward; two sis­ters and one brother. Juanita was a longtime member of the Rebecca's.

She will be lovingly remem­bered by her daughter,_Juanita (Roger) Mansfield of Grand Rapids; her grandchildren, Mike Mansfield, Susan & Scott Deprez, Dennis & Tammy Mansfield, Roger Jr. & LuAnne Mansfield, Richard & Michele Mansfield; her great-grandchil­dren, James, Michael, and Christine Deprez, Amber and Megan Mansfield, Kathryn and Jordan Mansfield, Joshua Mansfield, Michael and Jake Mansfield; her great great­granddaughter, Alora Follet; her sister, Arabelle Minor of Detroit

At Juanita's request, crema­tion has taken place. The family will be having private services at Oakwood Cemet~ in Eaton R.!i11ids, Michig_an. F/a.sh;a ~i~-c-. /07

GINA ELLEN BELFIORI Gina Ellen Belfiori of Eaton

Rapids, age 48, passed away as the result of an auto accident. Gina was born September 9, 1958 in Detroit, Ml, the daugh­ter of Joseph Francis and Helen Louise (Palmer) Belfiori. ·She was the owner and operator of Bel-Fiori's Rose Shoppe in Eaton Rapids. Gina was a proud, kind and generous mem­ber of our Eaton Rapids com­munity. Preceded in death by her parents; 2 sisters, Evelyn Belfiori and Louise Ahlteen,

Gina is survived by her daughter, Evelyn Grace Streeter; and son, Dolan Joseph "DJ" Waters, both of Eaton Rapids; brothers, Carl Belfiori and Joseph Belfiori, both of Eaton Rapids; sisters, Valerie (Thomas) Kunkel of Eaton Rapids and Maria- (Paul) Clos of White Lake; and several nieces & nephews.

Funeral services will be held at I :00 p.m. Friday, August 31, 2007 at the Shelly­Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids. The fami­ly will receive friends and fam­ily on Wednesday and Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Funeral }iom~.

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Thomas E. Spencer ~SJ Eaton Rapids, Ml iJ ;;J/i> 1

Age 64, passed away Sunday, August 19, 2007 in Eaton Ra­pids. 'fhoIDas was born July 11, 1943 in Eaton Rapids, the son of Edward and Mildred (For"

· ward) Spencer. He graduated

froID Eaton Rapids High School, Class of 1961 and froID MSU in 1976 with a B.A. Degree in Fine Arts. ToID continued his love of art and painting his whole life with · his private collections throughout Michigan, Pennsyl­vania and Florida He was a ve­teran of the U.S. Navy, serving during the VietnaID era. ToID re­tired froID the City of Lansing Public Service and retired froID Eaton Rapids Public Schools in 2005. ThoIDas, IDost of all loved his family, was an avid MSU Spartan fan, enjoyed IDusic, IDO­vtes, sports and the feeding and watching of his birds. He was a IDeIDber of the Robbins United Methodist Church, Eaton Ra­pids. Tom is survived by his wife of almost 41 years, Rachel (Canedy); 2 daughters, Erin ('fhoIDas) SiIDpson of Eaton Ra­pids and Lindsey (Ken TripJ>) Sp~ncer of Charlotte; 5 granCl­children, Collin Spencer, Maiya SiIDpson, DoIDinic . SiIDpson, Allison SiIDpson and Wynter Tripp; 2 sisters, Shirley Watkins of Eaton Rapids and Nancy Dean of Mason; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Bob and Sue Al­len of Eaton Rapids, Richard Re­ese of Pennsylvania, Sally Canedy of DiIDondale; and sev­eral nieces and nephews. Servi­ces will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, August 23, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Marty DeBow of Robbins UMC officiating. 'fhe faIDily will receive friends and faIDily on Wednesday from 12 noon until 2p.ID. and 6-8 p.ID. at the Funeral Home. MeIDorial contributions IDay be IDade to the Robbins Umted Methodist Church in meIDory of 'fhoIDas Spencer. www.shellyodell.c.;.;om~--

LSJ Gina Ellen Belfiori B(JS/6l Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 48, passed away as the re­sult of an auto accident. Gina was born Sep­tember 9, 1958 in Detroit, MI, the daughter of Joseph Francis and Helen Louise (Pal-IDer) · Belfiori.

She was the owner and operator of Bel-Fiori's Rose Shoppe in Eaton Rapids. Gina was a proud, kind and generous meIDber of our Eaton Rapids coIDIDunity. Preceded in death by her par­ents; 2 sisters, Evelyn Belfiori and Louise Ahlteen, Gina is sur­vived by her daughter, Evelyn Grace Streeter; and son, Dolan Joseph "DJ" Waters, both of Eaton Rapids; brothers, Carl Belfiori and Joseph Belfiori, both of Eaton Rapids; sisters, Valerie (Thomas) Kunkel of Eaton Ra­pids and Maria (Paul) Clos of White Lake; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. Friday, Au~ 31, 2007 at the Shelly­Odell Funeral Home, SIS S. Main, Eaton Rapids. The fa­mily will receive friends and fa­IDily on Wednesday and Thurs­day from 2-4 and 6-8 J>.ID. at the Funeral HoIDe. MeIDorial contri­butions IDay be made to the Belfiori Family Fund in IDeIDory of Gina Belfiori. www.shellyodell.com

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Helen (Cupp) Whittemore Tempe, AZ Helen passed away on July 25, 2007 at the age of 95. He en was born in Eaton Rapids on May 5, 1912 to Don and Myrtie (Freer) Cupp. She IDarried Merle W. WliitteIDore on May 23, 1931, and he preceded her in death on July 29, 1995. Helen and Merle were the original owners of the WhitteIDore Restaurant in Eaton Rapids. 'fhey IDoved to Arizona in 1952. Helen is survived by her loving children, Betty (Don) Bothwell of Sun Lakes, AZ and Merle W. (Glee) WhitteIDore, Jr. of V allecito, CA. Also surviving are 6 ~andchildren; 12 great­grandchlldren; 1 great-great­grandchild; brothers, Donald and EdIDund Cupp, sister, Doris Long, and sister-in-law, RosaIDond Cupp, all of Eaton Rapids. Her granddaughter

·Wendy (WhitteIDore) Hunt, and brother Roy Cupp preceded her in death. Interment will be in Vallecito, CA.1.-.SJ ,"1 ~ ._ ~{~ tp/O~

. t..SJ Ronald H. Veltman q ) ·3}c 1 Eaton Rapids, Ml · Ronald, age 79, passed away September 2, 2007. He was born March 21, 1928 in Muskegon, MI. He grew up on a farm in Big Rapids with seven brothers and sisters. Surviving are his wife of 58 years, M~; three children, Jackie (Pat) Tnmmer, Tom Velt­man, Joanne Cleeves; four grandchildren, Justin Cleeves, Kelly (Tom) DeLind, Jennifer Trimmer and Bob Trimmer; brothers, Robert Veltman and Gordon Shepard; and sister, Pearl Shepard. Ronald was pre­ceded in death by his parents: father, Harry Veltman, mother, LaMoine Shepard, and stepfa­ther, Bruce Shepard; sisters, Marjorie, Mary Alice and Mar­tha; and brothers, Edgar and George. Ronald retired from Motor Wheel after 35 years of service in 1981. Funeral serv­ices will be Wednesday, Sep­tember S at I p.m. from the Skinner Funeral Home in Ea­ton Rapids. Family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 2-4 p.m. and from 7-9 p.m. In lieu of flowers, con­tributions may be made to the Eaton Rapids Senior Center or the Eaton Community Hospice.

Donald (Don) A. Barningham Eaton Rapids, Ml. Donald, age 89 passed away on Tuesday, September 4, 2007 in Eaton Rapids. Don was born Oc­tober 31, 1917 in Vermontville, MI. Don was preceded in death by his lovmg wife, Joan (Bradley) Bamingham; his pa­rents, Arthur and Alice Barningham; brother, Walter Barningham; sister, Katie Culp. Don is survived by his sons, Michael L. (Rhea) Barningham of Boulder, CO., Douglas A. (Cyndi) Barningham of Green Valley, AZ., and Scott D. Barningham of Eaton RaJ;>ids; his grandchildren Eric Bammgham, Julie Brennan, Toni (Chris) Da­vis, David (Tara) Barningham Jenna Bamingham, Bradley Barningham and great-grandchildren, nieces and neph­ews. Don was in the U.S. Army and proudly served his country in World War II, receiving sev­eral honors during his service. After the passing of his wife Joan on September 6, 1962, Don focused his life on raising his 3 sons. He was an extremely dedi­cated father and grandfather. Don was very generous in mak­ing sure his family was always first priority. Don enjoyed being outdoors, woodworking, and camping with his familf. Don's love of the outdoors wil contin­ue as his children and grandchil­dren share his same enjoyment. Funeral services will be Sat­urday, September 8, 2007 at 1:00 p.m. from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rap­ids with Pastor John W. Metcalf of the First Congre~ational Church, officiating. Family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour rrior to service time. Burial wil follow in the Rosehill Cemetery in Eaton Rap­ids. For online condolences go to www.skinnerfuneralhome

RODNEY WILLIAM KLINK Rodney William Klink of

Eaton Rapids, age 51, a long time resident of Eaton Rapids, passed away peacefully this day in the year of our Lord, August 21, 2007. Words cannot express the sadness and joy that comes with saying goodbye to this father, brother, and friend to all who had the privilege of mak­ing his acquaintance. Sadness in saying goodbye and never agam being able to sit and talk on a quiet summers night. J.oy in knowing that the commitment he made in giving his life to the one who is able to save, will indeed give him an eternal peace that "will pass all under­standing".

Rodney.was an excellent ath­lete who truly loved playing the sport of baseball and softbal l. This talent was seen at an early age with his being elected to the Little League Hall of Fame in Georgia in 1968. Rodney 's love of playing ball continued throughout the years playing in various softball leaoues in the Eaton Rapids are~ with both family and friends. Those that had the pleasure of playing with Rodney will always be able to reflect and think on what a great player he was, but also on what a wonderful example he was for sportsmanship to those he was in opposition. If you dtd not have the pleasure of playing ball with Rodney, you surely must have been a partaker in his profession of cooking.

For many years Rodney could be found early in the morning cooking and serving to many of the Eaton Rapids residents at various eating establishments throuohout the area. Having

b ' been a partaker of Rodney s cooking, he was always eager to inform that he had "added something new to the menu!" It was all good. Not only did he serve in the kitchen, he also served others when he started his own painting business a number of years ago. One could always be assured that if you hired Rqdney to paint you were going to get a'fair :-irice and was ooino to be done to the best of o o .,, his ability. Rodney's 1!1e was a life exemplary of service tooth­ers in all that he did. His life of humility and kindness would be a hard act to follow.

He is survived by l daughter, Frankie Lynn Reynolds of Eaton Rapids; step-mother, Rose Klink of Lansing; brothers and sisters, Sherry King of Eaton Rapids, Michael (Beth) Klink of Middletown CT, Randy Klink of Eaton Rapids; step-brothers and sisters, Darrell Gamsay of Narrow Lake, Dorothy Garnsay of Eaton Rapids, Jason (Amy) Gamsay of Eaton Rapids, Bud Garnsay of Enid, OK, Curt (Linda) Gamsay of Nashville. TN; and several nieces & nephews.

Memorial services were held Saturday, August 25, 2007 a: the Robbins United Methodis Church, Eaton Rapids. In clos­ing, Rodney's family would like to express their deep and heart­felt thanks to all who helped giving of their time and e~ort during his brief, but devastatmg illness. It is hard to fathom what the family would have done without the unselfish love and concern given to one who only cared about doing for others. A special thanks goes out to one young woman that brought an enormous amount of joy to Rodney these past years. That woman is his daughter, Frankie. If Rodney were to be able to write one final goodbye to anyone, it would be to Frankie. So Frankie, this writer, based on past conversations with Rodney, wants you to know that your father says goodbye to you and he loves you with an eternal love. He thanks you for doing the very best that you could in his time of need and only hopes the best for you. You were, and are, the love of his life. Arrangemenrs were by the Shelly-O~el! Funeral Home, Eaton Rapid>. www.shellyodell.com l=/ti,S/(l.t) q ~10...._ __ _

RONALD H. VELTMAN Ronald H. Veltman of Eaton

Rapids, age 79 passed away September 2, 2007. He was born March 21, 1928 m Muskegon, MI. He grew up on a farm in Big Rapids with seven brothers and sisters.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mary; three children, Jackie (Pat) Trimmer, Tom Veltman, Joanne Cleeves; four grandchildren: Justin Cleeves, Kelly (Tom) DeLind, Jennifer Trimmer and Bob Trimmer; brothers. Robert Veltman and Gordon Shepard and sister, Pearl Shepard. Ronald was pre­ceded in death by his parents; father, Harry Veltman, mother, LaMoine Shepard and step­father Bruce Shepard; sisters, Marjorie, Mary Alice and Martha, and brothers, Edgar and George. Ronald retired from Motor Wheel after 35 years of service in 1981.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, September 5 at I :00 p.m. from the Skinner Funeral Ho1 m Eaton Rapids . In I ieu of flo " "rs, contributions may be made to the Eaton Rapids Senior Center or the Eaton Community Hospice. For online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHome.com

JUNE ANN MCGEACHY Jll! e Ann McGeachy of

Eaton Rapids, Ml. July 19, 1923- Aug. 31, 2007. June was born to the parents of Wilma and Robert Simpson. She was a fantasdc person that lived life to the tullest. A wonderful wife, mother, grandma, aunt, and true friend with great wit and opti­mistic views that made every­one want to be around her. Her cinnamon rolls , fun and laugh­ter will always be remembered, and she will be missed by all. The lord knows he has a beauti­ful angel.

She is survived by her hus­band Bud (Harold) of 61 years. Children Jill McGeachy, Jan Lynch, . Gail (Raymond) Thompson, grandchildren Micah (Erica), Luke McLaughlin, Vanessa, Garrison Thompson, Great grandson Asher.

A memorial service will be at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, ~eptember 6th, 2007 at Robbins United _ Methodist Church in Eaton Rapids Ml. Minister Marty Debow officiating. Family wi ll .receive friends at the church l hr. prior to memo­rial. In lieu of flowers memori­al gifts may be made to Robbins Un ited Methodist women's society at 6419 Bunker Rd. Eaton Rapids, Ml 48827. For online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHome.com Fl a.s lv4.. q lst en

JASPER "JAP" L. GRAHAM

Jasper "lap" L. Graham of Springport, age 78, passed away Tuesday, August 28, 2007 in Jackson. Jasper was born March 20, 1929, the son of Jasper Arthur and Welthia Eliza (Webber) Graham. He was a member of Operating Engineers #324, life member of the Parma Outdoor Club, and very loyal NASCAR fan. Preceded in death by his infant son, Douglas; and brother, Richard Graham.

Jasper is survived by his wife of 60 years, Joyce (Taylor) Graham; daughters, Linda (David) Higelmire and Teresa (Bob) Hobbins, all of Onondaga; sons, Larry (Carleen) Graham of Springport and David (Sandy) Graham of Olivet; 10 . grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; 3 great great grandchildren; 2 brothers, Gerald "Jake" (Barbara) Graham of Parma, Robert "Bud" (Christine "Jeannie") Graham of Holt; sister, Margaret (Francis) Artz of Parma; sister-in-law, Nancy Graham of Springport; many nieces & nephews; and best friends, Ron and Susie Jakubas.

Memorial services were held Friday, August 31, 2007 at Pope Church, Springport. Arrangements are by the Shelly­Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids. Memorial contributions may be made to Relay for Life in honor of Brandy Hobbins and Sandy Graham, and in memory of Jasper Graham. www.shelly­odeI.co F OSA-c.4 C//SJo;

t::SJ June Ann McGeachy 914/IJJ Eaton Rapids, Ml

July 19, 1923-Aug. 31, 2007 June was born to the parents of Wilma and Robert . Simpson. She was a fantastic person that lived life to the fullest. A won­derful wife, mo­

ther, grandma, aun~. and t~e friend with great wit and opti­mistic views that made everyo?e want to be around her. Her cin­namon rolls, fun and laughter will always be remembered, and she will be missed by all. 1!1e lord knows he has a beautiful angel. Surviving are her husb~d Bua (Harold) of 61 years; chil­dren, Jill McGeachy, Jan Lynch, Gail (Raymond) . Thomp~on; grandchildren, Micah (Enca), Luke McLaughlin, Vanessa, Gar­rison Thompson; great-g:andson Asher. Memorial servtce will be I p.m. Thursday SeP-tember 6, 2007 at Robb~ Umted Methodist Church m -Eaton Rapids Ml, Minister Marty Debow officiating. Family will receive friends at ~he church 1 hour prior to m~mor~al. In lieu of flowers memorial gifts

' may be made to Robbins pmted Methodist Women's Society at 6419 Bunker Rd. Eaton Rapids, MI 48827. For online condol~~­ces please vlSlt www.SkinnerFuneralHome.com

Alyce E. Brown i.. ~) Eaton Rapids, Ml q ! 1~/01

Age 80, died Wednesday, September 12, 2007 at the Eaton Commu­nity Hospice with her falllily by her bedside. Born October 8, 1926 in Eaton Rapids, the daughter of

, Claude and Maude (Bowers) Dillingham. Alyce retired in 1982 from the General Motors Cor­poration, Oldsmobile Division in Lansing. She was a member of the U.A.W. Local #652, Fraternal Order of Eagles Ladies Auxili­ary, Michigan Womens Bowling Association and USBC, Life member of the V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary Local 2406 Charlotte and a Volunteer for the Eaton Community Hospice. Preceding her in death were her husband Victor and 2 brothers, Ashley and Richard Dillingham. Surviv­

. ing are her 2 children, Larry (Neva) Brown of Charlotte and Tamra (Rick) Hover of Hanover; 4 grandchildren, Jennifer (Tim) Aylor, Jill (Jason) Moore, An­drew Guizar and Jared Brown; 5 great-grandchildren; sister, Leona Cadger of Eaton Rapids; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be Mon­day, September 17, 2ocp at 11:00 a.m. from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids with the Rev. Bobbie J. Weller of the Sunfield United Brethren Church, officiating. Fa­mily will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. For those desiring memorial gifts may be made to the V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary Lo­cal #2406. For online condolen­ces, please visit www.Skinner Funera!Home.com

t..SJ a},,/ Lawrence L. Schoepp 1 h/dl Eaton Rapids, Ml Age 79, died Monday, Septem­ber 17, 2007 at the Hospice of Lansing. Born February 20, 1928 in Eaton Rapids the son of Leo­nard and Helen (Baumer) Schnepp. Lawrence was owner and operator of Schnepp Refrig­eration for over 40 years. He met Mary Decook from Marquette, Ml., through mutual friends, and they were married in 1957. He served in the Army during the Korean War, earned a Degree from Cogne Electrical School, Chicago in 1947 and was formerly an avid airplane pilot. Preceding him in death was his wife, Mary (Decook) Schnepp in 2006; brother, Dale and sister, Jeanette Grimes. Surviving are 4 children, Kathy (Rick) Carpen­ter of Eaton Rapids, Patt}' (Dan) Davis of Hemlock, Steven (Lori) Schnepp of Eaton Rapids and Susan (Robert) Szedlak of Morrice; 6 grandchildren, Ben and Zachary Davis, Kelli, Rebecca and Joshua Schnepp and Justin Carpenter; and sever­al nieces and nephews. Funeral Services will be held on Friday, September 21, 2007 at 2:00 p.m.. from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. Burial with full military honors will be at the Fowler Cemetery in Aurelius Township. Family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice of Lansing at 3411 Stoneleigh · Dr. Lansing, MI. 48910. For online condolences go to www.skinnerfuneralhome

Billy Lee snow Billy Lee Snow passed away

at the age of 67 after a long ill­ness on September 4, 2007 · He is survivied by his wife of 45 years, Polly.

In addition to his wife, he is also survived by his children, Connie Miller (Frank Moreno) of Jackson, Dawn (Mike) Benn of Rives Junction, and Robert Steven Snow of Rives Junction; grandchildren, Michael, Kristi, Jeffery, and Abbey; four great­grandchildren; siblings, Joyce Favero, Evelyn Sisco, Flora (Dick) Alwood and Sam (Jane) Snow; mother-in-law, Gerogia Pulver; sisters-in-law, Carol (Jerry) Phelps, Phyllis Pulver; brother-in-law, Robert (Judy) Pulver; and many nieces and nephews. We cannot forget his special girls at Zimmermans Trading Post. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Esta Snow; three brothers; and l sister. Bill retired from Hayes Albion after 33 years. He was an avid fisherman, hunter, and enjoyed going to the casi­nos. He also loved his Michigan Wolverines.

Per his wishes, he has been cremated. Memorial services were at the Wetherby Chapel in Jackson on September 8, 2007. · Friend's may view Billy's obit­uary and send condolences to the family at wetherbyfuneral-

home.com. F/asfu.a., ''-f 1tjo7

Donald A. Barnlngham Donald A. Barningham, age

89 passed away on Tuesday, September 4, 2007 in Eaton Rapids. Don was born .October 31 1917 in Vermontville, MI. ~n was preceded in death by his loving wife, Joan (Bradley) Bamingham; his parents, Arthur and Alice Bamingham; brother, Walter Bamingham; sister, Katie Culp. .

Don is survived by his sons, Michael L. (Rhea) Barningham of Boulder, CO, Douglas A. (Cyndi) Bamingham of Green Valley, AZ, and Scott . D. Barningham of Eaton Rapid~; his grandchildren, Enc Bamingham, Julie Brenna~, Toni (Chris) Davis, David (Tara) Barningham, Jenna Ban;iingham, Bradley Barningham and great grand­children, nieces and nephews. Don was in the U.S. Army and proudly served his country. in World War II, receiving several honors during his service. After the passing of his wife Joan on September 6, 19~~· £?on focused his life on ra1smg his 3 sons. He was an extremely ded­icated father and grandfather. Don was very generous in mak­ing sure his fami~ was al_ways first priority. 4~9, enJo~ed being outdoorll~d>dworki~1g, and camping with his family. Dons love of the outdoors will continue as hi'~ children and orandchildren share his same " enjoyment.

Fµneral services were held ~ September 8, 2007 from the

kinner Funeral Home in Eaton ' apids with Pastor John .w. ~etcalf of the Fir~t Cpngregational Church, ?ffici­atlng. Burial followed m the Rosehill Cemetery in Eaton Rapids. For online condolences gQ. to www.skqiperfuneralhome r,;../q.S/u.a9tl~/D7

Alyce E. Brown Alyce E. Brown, age 80 of

Eaton . Rapids died Wednesday, September 12, 2007 at the Eaton Community Hospice with her family by her bedside. She was born October 8, 1926 in Eaton Rapids the daughter of Claude and Maude (Bowers) Dillingham. Alyce retired in 1982 from the General Motors Corporation, Oldsmobile Division in Lansing. She was a member of the U.A.W Local# 652, Fraternal Oder of Eagles Ladies Auxiliary, Michigan Womens Bowling Association and USBC, Life member of the V.F.W Ladies Auxiliary Local 2406 Charlotte and a Volunteer for the Eaton Community Hospice. Preceding her in death were her husband Victor; and 2 brothers , Ashley and Richard Dillingham.

She is survived by her 2 children, Larry (Neva) Brown of Charlotte and Tamra (Rick) Hover of H.anover; 4 grandchil­dren, Jennifer (Tim) Aylor, Jill (Jason) Moore, Andrew Guizar and Jared Brown; 5 great­grandchildren; sister, Leona Cadger of Eaton Rapids and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held on September J 7, 2007, from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids with the Rev. Bobbie J. Weller of the Sunfield United Brethren Church, offici­ating. For those desiring memo­rial gifts may be made to the V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary Local #2406 Charlotte, in memory of Alyce E. Brown. For onJ ine condolences please visit

www.S~n/J~~~ome.com

LAWRENCE L. SCHNEPP Lawerence L. Schnepp, age

79 of Eaton Rapids died Monday, September 17, 2007 at" the Hospice of Lansing. Born February 20, 1928 in Eaton Rapids the son of Leonard and Helen (Baumer) Schnepp. Lawrence was owner and oper­ator of Schnepp Refrigeration for over 40 years. He met Mary DeCook from Marquette, MI, through mutual friends, and they were married in 1957. He served in the Army during the Korean War, earned a Degree from Cogne Electrical School, Chicago in 1947 and was for­merly an avid airplane pilot. Preceding him in death were his wife, Mary (DeCook) Schnepp in 2006; brother, Dale and sis­ter, Jeanette Grimes.

He is survived by his 4 chil­dren, Kathy (Rick) Carpenter of Eaton Rapids, Patty (Dan) Davis of Hemlock, Steven (Lori) Schnepp of Eaton Rapids and Susan (Robert) Szedlak of Morrice; 6 grandchildren, Ben and Zachary Davis, Kelli,

· Rebecca and Joshua Schnepp and Justin Carpenter; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services were held • on September 21, 2007 from the

Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. Burial followed with full military honors at the Fowler Cemetery in Aurelius Township. For those desiring memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice of Lansing at 3411 Stoneleigh Dr. Lansing, MI. 48910. For online condo­lences go to www.skinnerfuner-

alhome. H~C\i"}~

JUDITH "JUDI" E. HAITE-GEROW

Judith "Judi" E. Haite­Gerow, age 56 of Onondaga and fonnerly of Eaton Rapids died Thursday, September 20, 2007 at a Lansing hospital. Born Januaq• 23, 1951 in Eaton Rapids the daughter of Rollo and Virginia (Kenyon) Haite. Judi lived in . Eaton Rapids growing up and spent her senior year and graduated from the Charlotte High School. She went on and received a Bachelor's Degree in Business Management. Judi worked for the Felpausch Food Stores in Leslie. Preceding her in death were her parents, and step­mother Beatrice Freeman­Haite.

She is survived by her Fiancee, Donald Kidd Sr. of Onondaga; 5 sons, Eric (Tracy) Haite of Webberville, Chad Gerow of Onondaga, Paul (Tina) Gerow of Onondaga, Don (Yvonne) Kidd Jr. of Eaton Rapids, and James Kidd of Onondaga; 12 grandchildren; 2 brothers, Richard Haite of Charlotte and Stepben (Deborah) Haite of Eaton Rapids; 7 step-brothers and sis­ters, Della Carpenter, John (Gloria) Freeman, Roger (Kelly) Freeman, Milton (Patricia) Freeman, Sharon (Danny) Copeland, Sheldon (Tracy) Freeman and Dennis (Dale) McNabb; many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held on Monday, September 24, 2007 from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids with Rev. Frank Klassen, officiating. For those desiriqg memorial contri­butions may be made to the American Cancer Society at Capital Area Service Center 3100 West Rd. Bldg. B-Ste 110 East Lansing, ML 48823. For online condolences go to www.skinnerfuneralhome. <l/-,s/01

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DONALD K. "BUC.Kv" HARRIS

Donald K. "Bucky" ' Harris fonnally. of Eaton Rapids, MI, • age 86 died Monday eptember · 24, 2007 in Lansing Born i~ Belding, MI August 22, 1921 to Donald V. and Neva L. (Kelly) Hams. Married to Betty Jane (Isbell) Harris in l ()39 in Cleveland, OH. In February 2004 after over sixty fou r years Betty ascended to that celestial city in heaven to make a home for them. He had one brother Robert George Harris, deceased'.

Bucky is survived by their four. children Katheryn (Duane) Dav1.dson, Michael (Mary) Harns, Donna Johnson and Nancy Cherry. All of whom he ~as very proud and enjoyed unm~nsely. Along with their children they were blessed with 9 grandchildren, 17 great grand­ch~dren and 2 great great grand­children. Next to the love of his li~e Betty and spending time with their family, Bucky en3oyed traveling, meeting peo­pl~, hunting and fishing, along with the great outdoors. They were members of the First Congregational Church in Eaton Rapids. Bucky was retired from Michigan Bell Telephone

. Company in 1979 after 38 years of service. He attended the Citizen Military Training Camp at Camp Custer, MI. In 1937 and 1939 he was assigned to the 25th Infantry Division, Southwest Pacific Theater of operation during WWII. He was a member of the Michigan . National Guard for 24 years before retiring from the United States Army in 1981. Some of his civic activities encompassed el~ction to the Eaton Rapids City Council, elected to the Charter Commission · and chaired the fire department study committee. His fraternal affiliations where; a life member and Past Master of Eaton Rapids Masonic Lodge #63 F.&A.M. A life member and high priest of. the Royal Arch Masons chapters 24 and 100, a life member and past Worthy Patron of the Order of the Eastern Star 'chapters 241 and 352. A member of the Elks Lodge #548, and a life member of the honorable order of !<entucky Colonels. P.lf kY was interested in the wware and care for all veterans who served honorably in the -armed forces. He was active in several veter­~ns ' organizations. An Honorary life member of the American Legion Post #15 and in 1984-85 was state commander for the Department of Michigan. An honorary life member of Voiture # 1332, the Society of the Forty & Eight and in 1980 was nation-al Chef de Chemin de Gare. Life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars posts 1243 and 2406. A life member of Amvets post 120. An associate member of the Royal Canadian Legion, branch 109. A life member of the Anny, Navy & Air Force

I. Veterans jn Canada, United

States Unit. Funeral services for Bucky

were held September 28, 2007 from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of ones choice in honor of Bucky. For online condo­lences please v1s1t www.SkinnerFuneraJHome.com

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CHERYL RENEE ROCKAFELLOW

Cheryl Renee Rockafellow, age 38 passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at her borne in Harrison, Ml. She was born June 16, 1969, and graduated from Eaton Rapids High School in 1987.

She is survived by her son, Keith Mickeal; daughter, Kali both of Georgia; mother, Anita (Bob) Warner of Eaton Rapids; father, Keith (Carol) Rockafellow of Georgia; broth­er, Keith D. Rockfellow II of Texas; grandparents, Max and Viola Lefevre of Eaton Rapids, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. \

Cheryl is dearly missedi7 [//q_ $N~ 10/z./O_/

Donald K. "Bucky" Harris Formally of Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 86 died Monday Sep­tember, 24, 2007 in Lan­sing. . Born in Belding, MI Au­gust 22, 1921 to Donald V. and Neva L. (Kelly) Harris. Married

to Betty Jane (Isbell) Harris in 1939 in Cleveland, OH. In Febru­ary 2004, after o.ver sixty four years, Betty a~nded to that ce­lestial city in heaven to make a home for them. He had one brother, Robert George Harris, deceased. Bucky is survived by their four children, Katheryn (Duane) Davidson, Michael (Mary) Harris, Donna Johnson and Nancy Cherry. All of whom he was very proud and enjoyed immensely. Along with their children, they were blessed with 9 grandchildren, 17 great­grandchildren and 2 great-great­grandchildren. Next to the love of his life, Betty, and spending time with their family, Bucky en­joyed traveling, meeting people, hunting and fishing, along with the great outdoors. They were members of the First Congrega­tional Church in Eaton Rapii:l.s. Bucky was retired from Michi­gan Bell Telephone Company in 1979 after 38 years of service. He attended the Citizen Military Training Camp at Camp Custer, MI. In 1937 and 1939 he was as­signed to the 25th Infantry Divi­sion, Southwest Pacific Theater of operation during WWII. He was a member of the Michigan National Guard for 24 years be­fore retiring from the United Stated Army in 1981. Some of his civic activities encompassed election to the Eaton Rapids City Council, elected to the Charter Commission and chaired the fire department study committee. His fraternal · affiliations were; a life member an!l Past Master of Eaton Rapids Masonic Lodge #63 F.&A.M. A life member and high priest of the Royal Arch Masons chapters 24 and 100, a life member and past Worthy Patron of the Order of the Eastern Star chapters 241 and 352. A member of the Elks Lodge #548, and a life member of the honorable order of Ken­tucky Colonels. Bucky was inter­ested in the welfare and care for all veterans who served honor­ably in the armed forces. He was active in several veterans' organizations. An Honorary life member of the American Legion Post #15 and in 1984-85 was state commander for the Department of Michigan. An honorary life member of Voiture # 1332, the Society of the Forty & Eight and in 1980 was national Chef de Chemin de Gare. Life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars posts 1243 and 2406. A life member of Amvets post 120. An associate member of the Royal Canadian Legion, branch 109. A life member of the Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans in Canada, United States Unit. Funeral services for Bucky will be Friday, September 28 at 1:00 p.m. from the Skinner Funer-81 Home in Eaton Rapids. Visitation will be held Thursday from 2-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. with an Eastern Star and Masonic Memorial service starting at 6:00 p.m. Memorial contribu -tions may be made to a charity of one's choice in honor of Bucky. For online condolences please visit: www.SkinnerFuneral Home.com J...S.J q h .. IJ D4

Charles "Chuck" E. Van Noller

· Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 55, died September 23, 2007 as the re­sult of an acci­dent; born Sep­tember 17, 1952 in Lansing, MI. Chuck was em­plofed at Gen­era Motors for 30 years and was an avid Mi­

chigan State football fan. He had a passion for fishing, hunt­ing and spending time with his family. He also enl'oyed riding his quad, snowmobi e and boat­ing. He was preceded in death by his father, Charles; brother, John and sister, Evelyn. Surviv­ing are his wife of 34 years, Sus­an (Ellis); loving father to Charles (Lonnie); very special PaPa to Tyler Van Noller; mo­ther, Mary Reed of Bar City; and sister, Hazel Brown o Bay City. Funeral services will be held Saturday, ~ember 29, 2:00 p.m. at the Gorsline-Itunc­iman Funeral Homes, 900 E. Michigan Avenue, LansinK. The family will receive frienos at the Chapel Friday from 2-4 and6-8p.m .... S....1 'i/Z~/01

RACHAEL K. COLE Rachael K. Cole, age 71 of

Allendale was called _home by her Lord and Saviour. She was preceded in death by her broth­ers Perry and Jim and sister Roxie.

She is survived by her lov­ing husband of 46 years, Clifford Cole; her children, Katie & Bruce Harkness of Eaton Rapids, Mike & Kim Cole of West Olive, John & Julia Cole of Ravenna, Loretta & Dan Searles; 12 grandchil­dren, Michael, Rebecca, Chesney, Alicia, Bethany, Brittnay, Trenton, Candice, Nathan, Daniel, John & Benjamin; brother, Don (Marilyn)"Waldron; sister Mary Hoffman; many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held on Sunday at Ottawa Center Chapel, Coopersville with Rev. Robert Porterfield and Rev. Robert Searles officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Ottawa Center Chapel , 8991 Leonard Rd. Coopersville, MI 49404 or Gideons

. Int;mational. Ff qJ;y/v..a-l 0 ( d-/D(

CurtisiLee V anDeoBerg, Sr. Eaton Rapids, Ml Formerly of Grand Rapids, Ml

Age 62, died from a heart at­tack on the air­plane while re­turning 'from Italy. Curt was born May 26, 1945 in Grand Rapids) Ml, the son 01 Charles Jay and ·Jennie

~ (Veenstra} Van­DenBerg. He was a graduate of Kentwood High School, class of 1963 and attended Michigan Stat~ University. Curtis was a 1st Lieutenant with the Michigan State Police, retiring in 1993. H:e was a very active musician and vocaliSt in the Eaton Rapids First l:Tftited MethOdi!rt Church c~~~ltand," Choir, Bell CbOtr Orchestra, and 4-Tell Quartet. He had many hobbies, was an avid J;>hotographer and enjoyed restoring old cars. C~ developed and operated the Mi­chigan State Police Vehicle DY,­natnics Program, and was J>res1-dent of Independent Testmg & Consulting, Inc. He was a mem­ber of the Eaton Rapids Planning Commission and numerous other comtnittees. Preceded ~n death by his dauliliter, Cathie V anDenBerg, in 19i°Jl, and broth­er Art VanDenBerg, in 2005, Cl~rtis is survived by his wife of 26 years, Linda (Shelly) Van­DenBei-g of Eaton Rapids; son, Curtis VanDenBerg, Jr. of East Lansing; 2 grandchildren, Whitney and Casey VanDen­Berg; 2 brothers, Charles "Chuck" VanDenBerg_ and Jack (Pat) VanDenBerg, all of Grand Rapids; sister-in-law, Cindy VanDenBerg of Rockford; mother-in-law, Doris Shelly; and several nieces and nephews. Funeril services will be held 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 8, 2007 at the First United Methodist Ciarda, Eaton lla­pids, with interment following at R.osehill Cemetery, Eaton ~-

ids. The family Will receive Friends and family on Saturday and Srinday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home 518 S. Main, Eaton Ra· pids. ' Memorial coptributions may be made to ~ither the Eat~n RaJ?ids First · Umted Methodist Churc]) or Haslett liigh School Choir Boosters in w.emory of Curtis VanDenBerg, Sr. www .shellyodell.com ~SJ In/ 5 /Cfl

Samuel Ira Tink Eaton Rapids, Ml Formerly of Leslie, Ml

Age 36, passed away October 3, 2007 in Lan­sing. Sam was bom March 17, 1971 in Lansing, MI, the son of Lewis and Ju­dith (Kelley) Tink. He was a member of the

· Eaton Rapids United Methodist Church and a former member of Faith United Methodist Church. Sam gradu­ated from Heartwood School, and was a Special Olymi>ian in floor ·hockey, basketball and frisbee. He "directed" every marching band, musician or mu­sic group he was around. He was preceded in death by grandpar­ents, Barbara Duesterbeck, Ira ad Thehb.a Tink and several aunts and uncle5. Sam is sur­vived bl Alis ~Ju,dy and Dan Tilik of Eaton RapidS; sib-

, lings, Steve (Sue) Tink of Battle Creek, Lisa (Steve) Ulman of Eaton Rapids, Laura Rempher of Mason, and Scott (Julie) Tink of Florida; 1 stepbrother and 3 stepsisters; and numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Satur­day, October 6, 2007 at the Fiist United Methodist Church, 600 S. Main, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. Daniel Hofmann officiatin~. Interment will follow at Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids. The familY. will receive mends and fatnily on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Shelly-Odell Funeral liome, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids. Mem­orial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church Music Department in memory of Sam Tink. www.sttg~ell.com 10 I 'S/rJl

·----·----

SAMUEL IRA TINK Samuel Ira Tink of Eaton

Rapids, formerly of Leslie, age 36, passed away October 3, 2007 in Lansing. Sam was born March I 7, 197 1 in Lansing, Ml, the son of Lewis and Judith (Kelley) Tink. He was a mem­ber of the Eaton Rapids United Methodist Church and a former member of Faith United Methodist Church. Sam gradu­ated from Heartwood School , and was a Special Olympian in floor hockey, basketball and

. fri sbee. He "directed" every marching band, musician or music group he was around. Preceded in death by grandpar­ents, Barbara Duesterbeck, Ira & Thelma Tink; and several aunts & uncles.

Sam is survived by his par­ents, Judy and Dan Tink of Eaton Rapids; siblings, Steve (Sue) Tink of Battle Creek, Lisa (Steve) Ulman of Eaton Rapids, Laura Rerripher of Mason, and Scott (Julie) Tink of FL; 1 step- ' brother and 3 step-sisters; and numerous nieces & nephews.

Funeral services were held Saturday, October 6, 2007 at the First UJlited Methodist Church, Eaton Rapids, with Rev. Daniel Hofmann officiating. Interment follow~d at Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids. Arrangements by the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids. Memorial contri­butions may be made to the First United Methodist Church Music Department in memory of Sam Tink. www.shellyo­dell.com F/ C(j hv:l.

1<)19/07

CAROL WANDA HECTOR Carol Wanda Hector, age 86,

of Eaton Rapids passed away Sunday, October 7, 2007 at Eaton Community Hospice in Charlotte. Born February 2, 1921 in Eaton Rapids the daughter of Roy and Minnie (Perkins) Corbin. Carol graduated from the Eaton Rapids High School class of 1938, became a certified teacher, and taught for 2 years at the one-room Boody School west of Eaton Rapids. She worked at Davidson Woolen Mills, then Fisher Body in Lansing where she retired after 34 years of serv­ice. She always loved the peace­fulness of the country and aspired to be a farmer after retir­ing from the factory. She pur­chased a farm north of Springport where she enjoyed watching the deer and birds from her front porch. She was a great listener and always found time to listen to you and discuss any issues. A big passion of hers was attending farm auctions ai1 over the st.ate to find a new treasure to buy, and driving her Ford truck to wherever she felt like she wanted to go. She will be remembered for her generosity and giving of flowers, plants and other items to famil members in need. She is preceded in death by her sister Mary Dieon Corbin, brother, David Elwood Corbin and first husband Ronald William Hector.

She is survived by-her chil­dren Gary (Ava) Hector, Carolyn (Jim) Eaton, Danny (Wendy} Hector, and Steven_ (Jo Ann) Hector, all of Eaton Rapids, a sis­ter, Hannah , Beth .. l;I._1,rn ~er o~ Jackson,- 13 grandchildr~n ,' t ls' great-grandchildren, 2 great­great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Arrangements by Skinner Funeral Home in. Eaton Rapids, services will be Thursday, October 11 at 11 :00 a.m. and visitation Wednesday, October 10th from 2-4 and 6-8. Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice House of Eaton County or the Eaton Rapids Medical Center/

F/ ctS ftv.2._., ID I q ( {? 7

t.~..) I \C\C\ 01 Carol Wanda Hector Eaton Rapids, Ml Age 86, o Eaton Rapids, passed away Sunday, October 7, 2007 at Eaton Community Hospice in Charlotte. Born February 2, 1921 in Eaton Rapids the daughter of Roy and Minnie (Perkins) Corbin. Carol graduated from the Eaton Rapids High School class of 1938, became a certified teacher, and taught for 2 years at the one-room Boody School west of Eaton Rapids. She worked at Davidson Woolen Mills, then Fisher Body in Lan­sing where she retired after 34 years of service. She always loved the peacefulness of the country ana aspired to be a farmer after retiring from the factory. She purchased a farm north of Springport where she enjoyed watching the deer and birds from her front porch. She was a great listener and always found time to listen to you and discuss any issues. A big passion of hers was attending farm auc­tions all over the state to find a new treasure to buy, and driving her Ford truck to wherever ·she felt like she wanted to go. She will be remembered for her gen­erosity and giving of flowers, plants and otlier items to family members in need. She is prece­ded in death by her sister, Mary Dieon Corbin, brother, David El­wood Corbin, and first husband,

' Ronald William Hector. Sur­vived by her children, Gary (Ava) Hector, Carolyn (Jim) Eaton, Danny ,(Wendy) Hector, and Steven (Jo Ann) Hector, all of Eaton Rapids; a sister, Hannah Beth Hunter of Jackson; 13 grandchildren; 18 great­grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; and several nie­ces and nephews. Funeral Ar­rangements by Skinner Fun­eral Home in Eaton Rapids, services will be Thursday, October 11 at 11:00 a.m. and visitation Wednesday, October 10 from 2-4 and 6-8. Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice House of Eaton County or the Eaton Rapids Medical Center. For online con­dolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHome.com

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Reverend Paul N. Mergener Eaton Rapids, Ml Age 95, died Tuesday, October. 9, 2007 at the Eaton Commuruty Hospice in Charlotte. Born March 26, 1912 in Grand Haven, MI the son of Joseph and Maude (Shen\rood) Me~g~ner. Paul served as the numster at t~e First Congregational Church m Eaton Rapids for many years and was currently the Past~r Emeritus. He was preceded !n death by his wife, Dorothy, !n 1983 and daughter S~ly H?ag m 1979. surviving are his children, Richard (Della) Mergener, Judy (Dan) Parsons and Dan (Ja~et! Mer~ener, all of Eaton Rapids, son-m-law, Vernon . Hoag of Grayling; 12 gr~dchildren and 25 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and many, many friends. Visitation for PaUl

. will be Friday, October 12th from 2-4 and 6-8 P·lll: at the Skinner Funeral Home m Eaton Rapids. Private family funeral services will follow. For those desiring memorial gifts may .be made to the Eaton Commuruty Hospice or th~ First Congreg?­tional Church m memory<'and m honor of the Rev. Paul N. Mergener. For online condolen­ces go to www.SkinnerFuneral Home.com. ~,3J lb/ll{o?

VAUGHN A. ZENKER Vaughn A. Zenker, age

78 of E!lton Rapids died Sunday, October 7, 2007 at a Lansing hospital. Born July 24, 1929 in Lansing, the son of Albert and Elsa (Warner) Zenker. Vaughn worked at Motor Wheel for 5 years, REO for 3 years and retired after 30 years of service for Jet Die and Engineering in Lansing. He loved his family, and enjoyed cutting fire wood. Vaughn fought a long hard fight with hi s illness and will be deeply missed by family and friends. Preceding him in death were his parents; and brothers, Basil and Bruce Zenker.

He is survivied by his wife of 60 years, Maxine; son, Steve (Shay) Zenker of Eaton Rapids; daughter, Jill (Torn) Paine of Bath; 3 grandchildren, Nicki Zenker, Kiersten and Andrew Paine; sister, Lynne Eglon of Springport and several nieces and nephews.

Vi sitation will be Wednesday, October 10, 2007 from 6-8 P.M. at the Skinner Funeral Horne in Eaton Rapids. Private family graveside servic­es will follow. For those desir­ing memorial gifts may be made to either the National Kidney Foundation or to Eaton Community Hospice in memo­ry of Vaughn A. Zenker.

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I L $ ..l Vaughn A. Zenker tol ttlo1 Eaton Rapids, Ml Age 78, of Eaton Rapids, died Sunday, October 7, 2007 at a Lansing hospital. Born July 24, 1929 in Lansing, the son of Al­bert and Elsa (Warner) Zenker. Vaughn worked at Motor Wheel for 5 years, REO for 3 years, and retired after 30 years of service for Jet Die and Engineering in Lansing. He loved his farilily, and enjoyed cutting fire wood. Vaughn fought a long hard fight with his illriess and Will be dee­ply missed by family and fnends. Preceding him in death were his parents, and brothers, Basil and Bruce Zenker. Surviv­ing are his wife of 60 years, Maxine; son, Steve (Shay) Zenker of Eaton Rapids; daugh· ter, Jill (Tom) Paine of Bath; 3 grandchildren, Nicki Zenker, Kiersten and Andrew Paine; sis­ter, Lynne Eglon of Springport, and several rueces and nephews. Visitation will be Wednes­day, October 10, 2007 &om 6-8 p.m. at the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton llapids. Pri­vate family_ gravesfde servi­ces will follow. For those de· siring memorial gifts may be made to either the National Kid­ney Foundation or to Eaton Community HosIJice in memory of Vaughn A. Zenk.er. For online condolences please . visit www.SkinnerFuneralHome.com.

CURTIS LEE VANDENBERG, SR.

Curtis Lee VanDenBerg, Sr. Eaton Rapids, age 62, died from a heart attack on the airplane while returning from Italy. Cutt was born May 26, J 945 in Grand Rapids, Ml, the son of Charles Jay and Jenn ie (Veenstra) VanDenBerg . . He was a graduate of Kentwood High School, class of 1963, and . attended Michigan State University. Curtis was a 1st Lieutenant with the Michigan State Police, retiring in 1993. He was a very active musician and vocalist in the Eaton Rapids First United

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Methodist Church Chalice "Praise Band", Choir, Bell Choir Orchestra, and 4-Tell Quarte~. He had rn~y hob­bies, was an avid photographer and enjoyed restoring old cars. Curt developed and operated the Michigan State Police. Vehicle Dynamics Program, and was president of Independent Testing & Consulting, Inc. He was a member of the Eaton Rapids Planning Commission and numerous other commit­tees. Preceded in death by his daughter, Cathie VanDenBerg, in 1981, and brother, Art VanDenBerg in 2005.

Curtis is surv~ved by hjs wife of 26 years, Linda (Sh~lty) VanDenBerg of Eaton Rapids; son, Curtis VanDenBerg, Jr. of East Lansing; 2 grandchildren, Whitney and Casey VanDenBerg; brother, Charles "Chuck" (Donna) VanDenBerg and Jack (Pat) VanDenBerg, all of Grand Rapids; sister-in-law, Cindy VanDenBerg of Rockford; mother in law, Doris Shelly; and · several nieces and

nephews. Funeral services were held

Monday, October 8, 2007 at the First United Methodist Church, Eaton Rapids. Interment fol­lowed at Rosehill Cemetery, Eaton Rapids. Memor.ial contri­butions may be made to either the Eaton Rapids First United Methodist Church or Haslett High School Choir Boosters in memory of Cuf!is VanDenBerg, ._ __________________________ ...,"""'"""'==,,,,...... Sr. www.shellyodell.com ------------1£1

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Tuesday, October 16, 2007

REVEREND PAUL N. MERGENER

Paul N. Mergener, age 95 of Eaton Rapids died Tuesday, October 9, 2007 at the Eaton Community Hospice in Charlotte. Born March 26, 1912 in Grand Haven, Ml. the son of Joseph and Maude (Sherwood) Mergener. Paul served several churches in the surrounding area which includes; West Olive, Paris, Shepard, Bath, South Bath, Potterville, Robbins, West Benton, Grovenberg, Lee Center, Springport, Onondaga and Vermontville. Paul was the minister at the First Congregational Church in Eaton Rapids for many years and was currently the Pastor Emeritus. He was also a teacher and principle at Eaton Rapids. Paul was preceded in death by his wife Dorothy in 1983 and daughter, Sally Hoag in 1979.

Surviving are his children; Richard (Della) Mergener, Judy (Dan) Parsons and Dan (Janet) Mergener all of Eaton Rapids; son-in-law, Vernon Hoag of Grayling; 12 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and many, many friends.

Visitation for Paul was October 12th at the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids with a private family funeral service Saturday. For those desiring memorial gifts may be made to the Eaton Community Hospice 2675 South Cochran, Charlotte, Michigan 48813 or the First Congregational Church 300 S. Main St. Eaton Rapids, Ml. 48827 in memory and in honor of the Rev. Paul N. Mergener. For online condo­lences please v1s1t www.Skin erFuneralHome.com

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GERTRUDE M. HOPCRAFT

Gertrude M. Hopcraft of Onondaga, age 93, passed away Thursday, October 4, 2007 in Jackson. Gertrude was born September 2, 1914 in Springport, Ml, the daughter of Gerald and Maude (Orrison) Osmun. She was a member of the Parma Rebekah Lodge #430, a 4-H leader for many years, and a member of the neighborhood Cackle Club. Gertrude was preceded in death by her husband, J.C. Hopcraft in 1992 and son, Jim Hopcraft in 2004.

She is survived by 2 daugh­ters, Sharlene Hopcraft and Mary Ellen (Frank) Andrews, all of Springport; son, Jerry (Carolyn) Hopcraft of Springport; 9 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; 2 great great-granddaughters; sister, Minnie LaVerne Nichols of Jackson; sister-in-law, Ruth Cockroft of Springport; and 1 niece and 1 nephew.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, October 9, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids. Interment followed at Tompkins

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FRANK J. DRYER Frank J. Dryer of Lansing,

MI, age 66, passed away Wednesday, October 17, 2007 in Dayton, Ohio. Frank was born August 1, 1941 in Jackson, Ml, the son of Allen J. and Mary Evelyn (Howe) Dryer. He retired from Fisher Body and was a member of Local 602. For 17 years Frank was very active at the "GreenHouse" (the Local 602 Substance Abuse Center) which was dedicated to Frank for his loyalty and long hours. Preceded in death by his sister, Clara Mae Fillmore; and 4 brothers, Bob, Duane, Richard, and Phillip Dryer.

Frank is survived by his son, Clint Ray Parsons of Lansing; 3 brothers, Harley (Marilyn) Dryer of Clarksville, Bill (Carma)_Dryer of Harrison, Melvin (Carol) Dryer of AZ; 5 sisters, Helen Sm.ith of Jackson, Lois (Stan) Allen of AZ, Shirley (Gayle) Parsoi:is of Eaton Rapids, Martha (Tom) Schwalbe of TN, Linda (Allen) Steele of Eaton Rapids; and many nieces & nephews.

Services were held -Monday, October 22, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids, with Rev. Stephen Klink officiating. Memorial coritributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the charity of your choice in memory of Frank D~er. \\/ww.shell)'odell.com

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Harold D. Hollicker ~ ) Eaton Rapids, Ml \lj ~101 Age 75, died Wednesday, Octo­ber 31, 2007 at the Eaton Com­munity Hospice in Charlotte. Born January 3, 1932 in Eaton Rapids the son of Vern and Grace (Summers) Hollicker. Harold was a veteran of the Kor­ean War and a member of the American Legion and the V.F.W. He retired from General Motors Oldsmobile Division as a truck driver and was a member of the U.A.W. Local #652. Harold was a member of the Eaton Rapids Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Wit­nesses and was very supportive of local charities, includmg the Humane Society. Preceding him in death was bis father, Vern. Harold is survived by cousins, Doris Adams, Mary Cluney and Donald Bunnell, and special friends, Shirley Smith, Julia Gen­tile, Sally Taylor, Janette Sibley and Richard Gulliver. Funeral services will be Monday, No­vember Sth at 11:00 a.m. from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids with the Rev. Stephen KliDk. officiating. Burial will follow with Military Honors at the Tompkins Cemetery in Tompkins Center. Visitation will be Sunday evening from 6-8 p.m. For those desiring memor­ial contributions may be made to a charity of one's choice in memory of Harold D. Hollicker. For online condolences please visit SkinnerFuneralHome.com.

~ 1.;.sl"'.? 1 1 /0~1 DOUGLAS L. CRANDAll

Douglas L. Crandall loving husband of Leona; father of Suzanne (Bill), Timothy (Leslye), Tod (Susan) & Phyllis; 6 grandchildren & 3 great­grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial was held on October 15, 2007. All services at Archdiocese of Denver Mortuary. Entombment to follow, Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

JIMMY HALL Jimmy Hall,. age 53, died

Thursday, November 1, 2007 in Springport. Jimmy was born, February 24, 1954 in Drift, KY the son of Arthur and Magaline (Newsome) Hall. He was pre­ceded in death by his sister, Ethel Mae Adams.

He is survived by his broth­er, "Peanut" Elliott of Springport; 3 aunts, Ellen Arnold of Springport, Vinne Cooper, Mary (Will) Henson both of Indiana; 2 uncles, Dewey (Phyllis) Newsome of Kentucky, Estill (Thelma) Newsome of Springport; sister­in-law, Kathy (Greg) Moore of Springport; brother-in-law, Jerry Adams of Leslie; 3 nephews, Curtis, Michael and Christopher Moore and a spe­cial friend, Bruce Arnold.

The family received friends on Sunday, November 4, at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids. There was no service. www.shellyodell.com

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r;;; HAROLD D. HOLLICKER ~ Harold D. Hollicker, age :: 75 of Eaton Rapids died ~ Wednesday, October 31 2007 ...... ' '-'l at the Eaton Community C: Hospice in Charlotte. Born

January 3, 1932 in Eaton Rapids the son of Vern and Grace (Summers) Hollicker. Harold was a veteran of the Korean War and a member of the American Legion and the V.F.W. He retired from General Motors Oldsmobile Division as a truck driver and was a mem­ber of the U.A.W. Local #652. Harold was a member of the Eaton Rapids Kingdom Hall of the Jehovan Witnesses and was very supportive of local chari­ties, including the Humane Society. Preceding him in death was his father, Vern.

Harold is survived by cousins, Doris Adams, Mary Cluney and Donald Bunnell· close relatives, Denise Adam~ and June, special friends, Shirley Smith, Julia Gentile, Sally Taylor, Janette Sibley and Richard Gulliver.

Funeral services were held Monday, November 5th at 11 :00 a.m. from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids with the Rev. Stephen Klink, officiating. Burial followed with Military Honors at the Tompkins Cemetery in Tompkins Center . For those desiring memorial contribu­tions may be made to a charity of one's choice in memory of Harold D. Hollicker. For online condolences please v1s1t SkinnerFuneralHome.com ·

JAMES ROBERT CRALL James Robert Crall of

Eaton Rapids, age 83, passed away Tuesday, October 30, 2007 in Eaton Rapids. James was born June 21, 1924 in Hillsdale, Ml, the son of Charles H. and Emma (Salisbury) Crall. He was a Master Sgt. with the U.S. Army during WWII and Korea and later a member of Charlotte VFW Post# 2406. James retired from G.M. in 1986 after 33 years of service. He enjoyed cutting, splitting and selling firewood. Preceded in death by his son-in-law, Mike McCune; 3 brothers; and l sister.

James is survived by his wife of 53 years, Dorothy J. (Cowles); daughter, Teresa "Terri" McCune of Eaton Rapids; son, Michael (Lori) Crall of Pontiac; 7 grandchil­dren, Brandon McCune, Molly Crall, and Mindy Crall, Beth Kessler, Michelle Sweet, Leann Huntley, Nicolena Wojciechowski; 9 great-grand-

children; 2 brothers, Ed Crall of Litchfield, George (Hazel) Crall of Homer; 2 sisters, Grace Brink of Hillsdale, Nina Wood of Jonesville.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, Nov. I , 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids with Rev. Marty Debow, Pastor of the Robbins United Methodist Church, Eaton Rapids, offici­ating. Those desiring may make contributions to either the Eaton Rapids Medical Center or the American Cancer

Society in memory of James R. Cra1

11. www.shellyodell.com

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Noel N. Wells LSJ Eaton Rapids, Ml n/15 /01 Age 56, of Eaton Rapids died Monday, November 12, 2007 at Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall. Born July 6, 1951, the son of Edwin and Vilona (Fisher) Wells. Noel was an Eaton Ra­pids High School graduate, class of 1969, and had worked for the Ford Motor Co. Noel enjoyed race cars and was an avid NASCAR fan. Preceding him in death were his parents. Surviv­ing are 4 children, Shane, Amy Reynolds, Jeremy and Scott; 6 grandchildren; 2 sisters, Imogene (Charles) Rankin and April Wells; brother, Lester Wells; and 2 nieces. Funeral services will be Saturday, No­vember 17 at 11:00 a.m. from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids with burial fol­lowing in the Oakwood Ceme­tery. Family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 6-8 p.m. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Children's Miracle · Network in memory of Noel N. Wells. For online condolences please visit www. SkinnerFuneralHome.com

Age 75, Bill died peacefully at home on Novemoer 14, 2007 after a long and courageous bat­tle with diabetes. He was born in Eaton Rapids to Clarence and Ruth Locke. Bill enlisted in the U.S. Navy at 17 (during the Kor­ean War) and went aboard the

1 destroyer USS Warrington DD843, the type of ship he would come to love (with others

_ to follow). After one tour, he re­turned to Eaton Rapids to finish his education and worked at Al­lied Products for several years. Bill reenlisted in the Navy, and,

1 along with his wife and children, spent the rest of his 20 year ca­reer at various locations: the fa­

- vorite being the Naval Air Sta­f tion, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

While there, he was promoted to 1 Machinist Mate Chief and fin­

ished his military career at Great Lakes Naval Station, IL, teaching

r propulsion engineering. Gradu­ating from LCC with a degree in HV AC, he went on to work at

3 the VA Hospital in Battle Creek 'r- for 10 years, which completed 30 0 years of federal service. Most i people knew Bill for his love of i rocks (and his pipe, which he re­f luctantly gave up). All the staff _ at the Ann Arbor VA Hosrital,

who took such great care o him for many years, knew him as ·

' their beloved "rock man". Their names are too many to mention,

1 but the greatest is his endocrinologist, Dr. RoBer Grekin. With his unending VIgi­lance, compassion and profes­sionalism over the last decade, Bill was able to enjoy much

1

more of life than otherwise. Many, many thanks also go to the Visiting Nurses who so com­passionately helped care for him, especially his RN, Joan, and aide, Missy. Constantly at Bill's side for prayer and comfort has been his beloved "Chaplain" Re­verend Tim Olson, First Luther­an Church, whose support has been immeasurable. Preceded in death by his sister, Mary Jane Terwilliger (Navy Wave), Bill is survived by his wife, Mae; 2 chil­dren, son, Paul (Korina) Locke and their children, Ashley, Shane (and his little daughter Ella), and Matthew; and daugh-ter, Sonja (JefO Stoner and their children, Cody, Nicholas, and Katelin; 2 brothers, Dick and Larry Locke; sister, Nadine Ol-ney, and many nieces and ne-phews. Services will be held

L~.J Nelson Raymond , q 1 ~J zq DeFord Eaton Rapids, Ml Formerly of Holt and Ann Ar­bor, age 96, died on Saturday, November 17, 2007. He was born in Au Gres on September 16, 1911. His former wife, Geraldine, preceded him in death in 1994. He was also preceded in death by his son, Peter Deford in 2004 and by his ~andson, Jose.Ph Ri­chard Conlm in 2007. His pre­sent wife, Marilyn, whom he married in 1995, survives him, as does seven children, James (No­reen) Deford, Thomas (Susan) Deford, Mary (James) Doll, 1 Anne (Charles) Haskin, John (Denecia) Deford, E. Jean (Ri­chard) Conlin, and Paul (Chris­tine) DeFord; and daughter-in­law, Deborah Deford. He is also survived by two stepchildren, Shawna (Roger) Martin and Michael Friel; thirty-nine grand­children, and forty-eight great­grandchildren. Nelson was ac­tive in family, church, commu­nity, and busmess affairs. He de­lighted in fundraising work for charitable and service organiza­tions. He also headed trade and service groups, United Ways, Chambers of Commerce, and Retail Trade Associations. He was active in Kiwanis, Boy Scouts, American Red Cross, St. Louis Center, Knights of Colum­bus, Catholic Education, and H<;>_sj>ital Boards. Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, November 20, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter's Catholic Church, SIS E. Knight Street, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev Fr. Geoffrey Rose and the Rev. Fr. Ben Constantine, co-celebrants. Interment will follow at St. Jo­seph Catholic Cemetery. The fa­mily will receive friends at St. Peter's Catholic · Church on Monday from 3-8 p.m. and at the church on Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Mass. A rosary will be prayed Monday at 7:00 p.m. at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Louis Center in Chelsea, a home for developmentally disabled boys, St. Peter's Catholic Church Building Fund, or Eaton Com­munity Hospice in Charlotte. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.palmerbush.com. Arrangements by Palmer, Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Homes, Lansing Chapel.

®

NOEL N. WELLS

Noel N. Wells, age 56 of Eaton Rapids died Monday, November 12, 2007 at Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall. Born July 6, 1951, the son of Edwin and Vilona (Fisher) Wells. Noel was an Eaton Rapids High School graduate, class of 1969, and had worked for the Ford Motor Co. Nod enjoyed race cars and was an avid NASCAR fan. Preceding him in death were his parents.

He is survivied by his 4 children, Shane, Am Reynolds, Jeremy and Scott; grandchildren; 2 sisters, Imogene (Charles) Rankin and April Wells; brother, Lester Wells and 2 nieces.

Funeral services were held November 17, 2007 from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. Burial followed in the Oakwood Cemetery. For those desiring memorial contri­butions may be ma~e to the Children's Miracle Network in memory· of Noel N. Wells. For online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHome.co m f/t£Sit.J4_ tf /.)C/O-":/

1:00 p.m. Saturday, Novem-

===============--' ber 17, 2007 at fhe Shelly- --------------------­Odell Funeral Home, SIS S. Main, Eaton Rapids with the Rev. Tim Olson officiating. The family will receive friends and family on Friday from 2-5 p.m. at the funeral home. Those desir-ing may make memorial contri-butions to Disabled American Veterans "DAV" in memory of Bill Locke. www.shellyodell.com

CPT(R)RE~MERTON

WILSON LEAK Merton Wilson Leak of

Webberville, MI, formally of Lansing, has been greeted by those who passed before him and Jesus, his friend.

Wilson and his wife of 61 · years Lois Leak (deceased July

20, 2007), have 5 amazing chil­dren, Ruth Heuer (Rob Jones), Millie (Roger) Fortin , and Denise (SGT Gary (~aq)) Oller, Larry H. Leak (deceased) and Tony L. Leak (deceased). He also had 13 grandchildren, 29 Great. Grandchildren, and 1 Great Great Grandchild, and many nieces and nephews. Wilson was a 6 year World War II South Pacific Army Veteran with the 639 Quarter Master, plus 20 years in the Michigan National Guard with the 119th Field Artillery, a retired State of Michigan Employee, and a member of the following: Capitol City Lodge, Pride of Ingham Rebekahs Lodge, Grand Lodge, Grand River Valley Encampment #31, Grand Encampment Past Grand Patriarch, VFW Sheridan ~ost

#5065 Life Member, Captain C.U.T.T. for the Lansing Police Department, R.S.V.P., NUIA, Spiritual Episcopal Church, and the Circle of Light Church.

Memorial Services will be held on Monday, November 26th · at 2:00 p.m. at the Dansville United Methodist Church, 1317 Mason Street, Dansville to cele­brate his passage into a new life. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. In Lieu of flowers, memorial con­tributions and condolences may be made to Hospice or Circle of Light Church, P.O. Box 285, WebbeJ;".ille, MI 48892.

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Gail F. Prin~e Eaton Rapids, Ml

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. Age 87, died Tuesday, Novem­ber 20, 2007 at a Lansing Nur­sing Home. Born April 26, 1920 in Lansing, the oldest son of nine childi'en born to I. 0. and Inez (St. Clare) Pringle. Gail re­tired from the Lansing School District and formerly worked as a sheet metal worker for Allied Products in Eaton Rapids. He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Betty, and a daughter, Marlene Garcia. Sur­viving are 4 children, Darleen (Theodore) Huff of Charlotte, Diana Uhl of Eaton Rapids, Jack (Jody) Prin~le of Coldwater, and · Gene (Leshe) Pringle of Eaton Rapids; 12 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; 3 great­great-grandchildren; sisters and brother, Elaine (Leonard) Bums, Joann Butler, Linda (Julian) V anDenAble and Larry Pringle; and numerous nieces and ne­phews. Funeral services will be Friday, November 23, 2007 at 1:00 p.m. from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids, with burial fol­lowing in the Rosehill Cemetery in Eaton Rapids. Family will re­ceive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday evening from 6-9 p.m. For online condolences go to www.SkinnerFuneralHome.com.

Ronald L. Crosby Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 64, died Sunday, No­vember 18, 2007 in Lansing. Ron was born May l, 1943 in Lan­sing, MI, the son of Milo Emmerson and Rosaline Caroline (La-F ever) Crosby.

Ron was retired from the Olofsson Corporation in Lansing after 33 years of service. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and member of the Onondaga VFW Post #6986; a member of the Eaton Rapids · Const:rvation Club, and the ~- Ron _espe­cially enjoyed his association with the Mid-Michigan Streetrod Association. Preceded in death by his son, Ronald Lee Crosby, Jr. and brothers, Donnie and Dennis Crosby, Ro­nald is survived by his wife of 44 years, Paulette (Jones) Crosby; daughter, Michelle Marie (Da­vid) Crosby-Wood of Eaton Ra­pids; son, Milo John Crosby of Marshall; 7 · grandchildren, Mathew (Rachael), Michael (Sarah), Ronnie and Taylor Wood, Jessica, Randy, and Shelby Crosby; great-grandson, Cameron Wood; sister, Cheril}'!l (Kevin) Kleinau of Howell; brother, Randy ~Tina) Crosby of Eaton Rapids; several nieees and nephews, including his nephew, Tommy Henderson, whom he thought of as a son; and his 2 furry best friends, "Toro and Rosie." A special thank you to Dr. VanDerjagt and the staff at Ingham Medical C.I.C.U. Funer­al services will be held 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 21, 2007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids. Interment will follow at Delta Center Ceme­tery. The family will receive friends and family on Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. and for one hour prior to the service on Wednes­day at the funeral home. Memor­ial contributions may be made to either the American Heart Asso­ciation or the American Cancer Association in memory of Ro­nald Crosby. www~shelly-odell.com t.- S .) II/ ZI ID l ------

EARL F. HEINTZ Earl F. Heintz, age 77 of

Eaton Rapids died Friday, November23, 2007 in Lansing. Born December 4, 1929 in Lansing to John and Dora (Canfield) Heintz. Earl was a veteran serving in the Army, a member of the V.F.W. and the American Legion Harold Teeter Post #15 . He retired as a Millwright for General Motors in the Oldsmobile Division with over 40 years of service and was a member of the U.A.W. local #652. Earl was also a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge in Lansing and the Fraternal Order of Eagles lodge# 3552 .. Earl was a faithful Lions fan, he enjoyed bowling and golfing and was an avid hunter and fisherman as well as a member of the Eaton Rapids Conservation Club. Preceding him in death was his parents; and a brother, Kenneth.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Mildred; 6 children, Terrell Heintz of Eaton Rapids, Annette (Mert) Spayd of Eaton Rapids, Jeffrey (Doreen) Heintz of Eaton Rapids, Debra (Brian) Waters of Eaton Rapids, Stephanie (Dan) Wright of Eaton Rapids, and Susan (Donald) Root of Mulligan; n grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren; 2 brothers, Dean Heintz of Grand Junction, CO. and Merton (Beverly) Heintz of Jackson; l sister, Doris (Albert) Ferrier of Lansing and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, November 28, 2007 at 1 :00 P.M. from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. Family will receive friends at the funeral borne on Tuesday between 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. For those desiring memo­rial contributions may be made to either the American Cancer Society or National Kidney Foundation in memory of Earl Heintz. For online condolences please v1s1t www. SkinnerFuneralHome.com

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WILLIAM "B" LOCKE William ·"B" Locke of

Eaton Rapids, Age 75, died peacefully at home on November 14, 2007 after a long and courageous battle with dia­betes. He was born in Eaton Rapids to Clarence and Ruth Locke. Bill enlisted in the U.S.

Hospital in Battle Creek for 10 years, which completed 30 years of federal service. Most people knew Bill for his love of rocks (and his pipe, which he reluctantly gave up). All the staff at the Ann Arbor VA Hospital , who took such great care ·Of him for many years, knew him as their beloved "rock man". Their names are too many to mention, but the greatest is his endocrinologist, Dr. Roger Grekin. With his unending vigilance, compas­sion and professionalism over the last decade, Bill was able to enjoy much more of life than otherwise. Many, many thanks also go to the Visiting Nurses who so compassionately helped care for him, especially his RN, Joan and aide, Missy. Constantly at Bill 's side for prayer and comfort has been his beloved "Chaplain" Reverend Tim Olson, First Lutheran Church, whose support bas been immeasurable. Preceded

Navy at 17 (during the Korean in death by his sister, Mary War) and went aboard the Jane Terwilliger (Navy Wave). destroyer USS Warrington Bill is survived by his DD843, the type of ship he wife, Mae; 2 children, son, Paul would come to love (with oth- (Korina) Locke and their chil­ers to follow). After one tour, dren, Ashley, Shane (and his lit­he returned to Eaton Rapids to tie daughter Ella), and finish his education and worked Matthew; and daughter, Sonja at Allied Products for several (Jeff) Stoner and their children, years. Bill re-enlisted in the Cody, Nicholas, and Katelin; 2 Navy, and, along with his wife brothers, Dick and Larry and children, spent the rest of Locke; sister, Nadine Olney, his 20 year career at various and many nieces and nephews. locations: the favorite being the Services were held Naval Air Station, Guantanamo Saturday, November 17, 2007 Bay, Cuba. While there, he was at the Shelly-Odell Funeral promoted to Machinist Mate Home, Eaton Rapids with Rev. Chief and finished his military Tim · Olson officiating. Those career at Great L!J.kes Naval desiring may make memorial Station, IL, teaching propulsion contributions to Disabled engineering. Graduating from American Veterans "DAV" in LCC with a degree in HVAC, memory of Bill Locke. he went on to work at the VA www.shellyodell.com

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t..Sj ''\2q)01 Barbara N. VanAken Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 83, died Tuesday, No­vember 27, 2007. Born Sep­tember 2, 1924 in Lansing, the daughter of Leon and Hazel (Potter) Battley. Barb was an Eastern High School

graduate, class of 1943. She mar­ried Herb V anAken on the 18th of April in 1947 and began her lifetime career as a farm hand on the VanAken Farm. She retired from the Eaton Stamping Co. in Eaton Rapids. She bowled on Tuesday nights with the Eaton Stamping Bowling Team for nearly 40 years, and was a mem­ber of the Moose Lodge #288 in Lansing. Surviving are her hus­band of 60 years, Herb; daugh­ter, Marilyn (Kip) Sorlie of S. Dakota; sons, Robert V anAken and Bruce (Deb) VanAken all of Eaton Rapids; 9 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren; 3 sis­ters, June Greenhoe, Ruth Hettinger and Nelda Tingay; brother, Dale (Mary) Battley· and several nieces and nephews'. Funeral services will be Sa­turday, December I, 2007 at 1:00 p.m. from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Ra­pids. Family will receive friends at the funeral home Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. For those desir­ing memorial gifts may be made to the Eaton Rapids Senior Cen­ter in memory of Barb VanAken.

LS.) \\\i"ttrn Geraldine Knapp East Lansing, Ml Formerly of Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 96, died Tuesday, No­vember 27, 2007 in Lansing after a long and fruitful life. Geraldine was born Septem­ber 27, 1911 in Windsor Town­ship, Michigan. She graduated

from Eaton Rapids High School as Valedictorian in 1929. With honors she earned her AB de­gree from Albion College in English, French and Speech. She was involved in the East Lansing Child Study Club as treasurer and president, Women of Peo­ples Church as ,President and treasurer of her Circle; Universi­ty Club and Faculty Folk of MSU as treasurer. Gerry will be re­membered for her loving and kind ways and her thoughtful­ness. Preceded in death by her husband, Gerald "Gerry" Knapp on January 28, 1993, she is sur­vived by her 2 daughters, Linda Schnake and Willa (Norm) Kersten; grandchildren, David (Michele) Schnake, loy (J Ed­ward) Knowles, Lisa (John) O'Keefe, Steve (Carolyn) Kersten; and 13 great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at the fa­mily home (923 Linden St., East Lansing, Ml) on Sunday, December 2, 2007 at 3:30 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the Peoples Church En­dowment Fund. www.shelly odell.com

RICHARD MARSHALL KELLY

Richard Marshall Kelly, born December 13, 1916 in

· Charlotte, the son of Frank Max and Bessie (Loveland) KeUy, went home to be with his Lord on November 28, 2007. Richard (Dick) attended Charlotte High School graduating in 1936. Activities he participated in were wrestling, boxing, basket­ball, baseball, and varsity foot­ball. He received "All State and All Conference" honors in foot­ball in 1936. Dick was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying fishing and hunting since he was a teenager. He hunted in Newfoundland bagging 3 Moose, and successfully hunted Bull Elk and Mule deer in Idaho and Antelope in Montana. He also enjoyed Pheasant hunting in South Dakota. Richard mar­ried the love of his life, Verna Thuma in 1940, he was a devot­ed husband and father, he worked their 80 acre farm at Duck Lake while also working for Eaton Corporation in Battle Creek until retiring in 1975. He was ~receded in death by his wife of 63 years Verna in 2004 and his daughter Norma (Kelly) Smith in 1986, parents, 3 broth­ers, Frank Jr., Elwood, Jack and one sister Esther Gould.

He is survived by his sons Larry of Jackson, Rick (Denise) of Victoria, TX, daughter Sharyn (Jim) Eaton_ of Duck Lake; 16 grandchildren and 29 great grandchildren; and o~e great great granddaughter; sis­ter, Kate (Ed) Priesman of Bellevue and sisters-in-laws, Audrey Kelly of _Bellevue, Arlene Towns of Jackson, Betty Thuma of Eaton Rapids and special friend Grace Pierce.

Funeral Services were held Monday, December 3, 2007 from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. Burial will fol­low in the Oakwood Cemetery in Eaton Rapids. F/ Cl.J:.IULl

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GAIL F. PRINGLE Gail F. Pringle, age 87, of

Eaton Rapids died Tuesday, November 20, _2007 at a Lansing Nursing Home. He was born April 26, 1920 in Lansing the oldest son of nine children born to I. 0. and Inez (St. Clare) Pringle. Gail retired from the Lansing School District and formerly worked as a sheet metal worker for Allied Products in Eaton Rapids. He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years Betty and a daughter Marlene Garcia.

He is survived by his 4 chil­dren, Darleen (Theodore) Huff of Charlotte, Diana Uhl of Raton Rapids, Jack (Jody) Pringle of Coldwater and Gene (Leslie) Pringle of Eaton Rapids; 12 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren and 3 great great grandchildren; sisters and brother, Elaine (Leonard) Bums, Joann Butler, Linda (Julian) VanDenAble and Larry Pringle; numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Friday, November 23, 2007 from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids with burial foIJowing in the Rosehill Cemetery in Eaton Rapids. For online condolences go to www.skinnerfuneralhome.com

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Robert "Bob" V. Towns Eaton Rapids, Ml

Age 87, died Monday, De­cember 3, 2007. Born Novem­ber 9, 1920 in Eaton Rapids, the son of Vern and Pearl (Gruesbeck) Towns. · Bob had formerly ·

. worked in the Milk business and had retired as manager from the Felpausch Food Stores Frozen Food and Dairy Dept. in Hastings. He was preceded in death by his par­ents, brother, Theo; and sisters, Arlene McConnell and Myrtle Colestock. Surviving are his wife of 63 years, Shirley; son, Lynn Towns of Holt and daughter, Marsha (Ken) Nicholas of Eaton Ra12ids· 6 grandchildren, Laura (Jeffrey) Spradlin of Kansas, Ja­son (Zoila) Towns of El Salva­dor, Joshua Towns of. T~xas, Arin Towns of Michigan, Bethany (Ruben) Pena of Texas, and Caryn Nicholas of ~aton Ra­pids; 7 great-grandchildren; 2 sisters, Esther Stark of Caro and Ruth Tank of Eaton Rapids; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be Fri­day, December 7at1:00 p.m. from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids wi~h burial following in tlie Rosehill Cemetery. Family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to either the Alzheimer's Associa­tion or the Eaton County Medi­cal Care Facility in memory of" Bob Towns. For online condo-ti lences go to www.S · er FuneralHome.com i..:S J l ;i ::,{

Louise B. "Susie" Samson Eaton Rapids, Ml Age 78, died Thursday, Decem­ber 6, 2007 at the Eaton Commu­nity Hospice. She was preceded in death by parents, Robert ai:id Lillian Smith; husband, Norris; daughter, Penny Bonita; son, Douglas; grandson, Nathan Dygert; and brother, R.C. Smith. She is survived by grandsons, Ja­son and Loren Dygert, Joshua Samson and granddaughter, Rebecca Samson; brothers and sisters-in-law, Lewis (Nellie) Samson, Clarence (Evelyn) Sam­son Eleanor Samson and Pau­line' Samson; and several nieces and nepJlews. Graveside servi­ces will be Monday, Decem­ber 10th at 1:00 p.m. at the Onondaga Cemetery in Onondaga, with the Rev. Wil­liam Muller officiating. Arrange­ments are through the Skiniier Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. Family suggests memorial con­tributions be made to the Eaton Community Hospice at 2673 S. Cochran Rd., Charlotte, MI. 48813 in memory of Louise B. Samson. For online condolences go to www.SkinnerFuneral Home.c~m. l SJ i Z / 'iio 7

LOUISE B. "SUSIE" SAMSON Louise B. "Susie"

Samson, age 78 of Eaton Rapids died Thursday,

December 6, 2007 at the Eaton Community Hospice. She was preceded in death by parents, Robert and Lillian Smith; hus­band, Norris; daughter, Penny

Bonita; son, Douglas; grandson, Nathan Dygert; and brother, R.C. Smith.

She is survived by grand­son's, Jason and Loren Dygert,

Joshua Samson and grand­daughter, Rebecca Samson; brothers and sisters-in-law, Lewis (Nellie) Samson, Clarence (Evelyn) Samson, Eleanor Samson and Pauline Samson; several nieces and nephews.

Graveside services were held December 10, 2007 at the Onondaga Cemetery in Onondaga, with Rev. William Muller, officiating. Arrangements are through the Skinner funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. Family suggests memo­rial contributions be made to the Eaton Community Hospice at 2673 S. Cochran Rd. Charlotte, MI. 48813 in memo­ry of Louise B. Samson. For online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHome.com

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JANET KAY ALLMAN Janet Kay Allman, age 64

of Narrow Lake, Michigan died Thursday, November 6, 2007.

Janet fought a hard battle till the end, but lost to an overwhelm­

ing force. Born April 3, 1943 in Eaton Rapids, the daughter of Joseph and Esther (Gardner) Twichell. Janet loved her

grandchildren she enjoyed laughter, decorating for the hol­idays, making cakes and col­lecting angels as well as fishing

off her back deck and the love of her 2 cats.

She is survived by her hus­band, Robert; 5 children, Chris

Smith of Lansing, Cindie (Allan) Owen of Holt, Connie (Michael) Dow of Haslett,

Richard Scott Smith of Williamston, Kirt (Deann) Smith of Williamston; 3 step­

children, Carol Coats. and Nore,en Allman both of Eaton Rapids and Suzanne Merganhagen of Eagle; 15 grandchildren and 1 great­grandchild; sister, Joyce Yerxa of Illinois and brother, Ron Twichell of Springport; sisters­in-law, Shirley Bryson and Phillis Whidden; several ·nieces

and nephews. Funeral services were held

on December 9, 2007 from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids with the Rev. Douglas Bradshaw, officiating. In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be made to Special Olympic for Area 8 in memory of Janet K. Allman. For online condo­lences please visit www.

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ROBERT "BOB" V. TOWNS Robert "Bob" V. Towns, age 87

of Eaton Rapids died Monday, December 3, 2007. Born November 9, 1920 in Eaton Rapids, the son of Vern and Pearl (Gruesbeck) Towns. Bob had for­merly worked in the Milk busi­ness and had retired as manager from the Felpausch Food Stores Frozen Food and Dairy Department in Hastings. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Theo; and sisters, Arlene McConnell and · Myrtle Colestock.

He is survivied by his wife of 63 years, Shirley (Woodworth) Towns; son, Lynn Towns of Holt and daughter, Marsha (Ken) Nicholas of Eaton Rapids; 6 grandchildren, Laura (Jeffrey) Spradlin of KS, Jason (Zoila) Towns of El Salvador, Joshua Towns of TX, Arin Towns of Ml, Bethany (Ruben) Pena of TX, and Caryn Nicholas of Eaton Rapids; 7 great grandchildren; 2 sisters, Esther Stark of Caro and Ruth Tank of Eaton Rapids; several nieces anCI nephews.

Funeral services were held December 7th from the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. Burial followed in the Rosehill Cemetery. For those desiring memorial contributions may be made to either the Alzheimer's Association or the Eaton County Medical Care Facility in memory of Bob Towns. For online condo­lences go to www. SkinnerFunera!Home.com / FI a.s./1l~ 1:J-/ 11 tD7

Bertha Belle (Lasley) Bullen Holt, Ml Formerly of Eaton Rapids and Mason, Ml Age 91, died December ll, 2007. Born in Omaha, NE, on October 14, 1916, Bertha was the eld~st child of William H. and Bermce B. (Humphrey) Lasler. Follow­ing her father's death, Bertha and her 4 sisters came in 1928 to live at the VFW National Home for Children in Eaton Rapids, MI. Bertha held a life-long grati­tude to the VFW for their role in keeping the five Lasley sisters together. Bertha graduated from Eaton Rapids High School in 1936, and after receiving nurses training in Omaha, returned to Michigan to marry Fred E. Bullen of Mason in 1938. Bertha and Fred were in love for life, and shared this love with their five children. Bertha practiced nursing at Eaton Rapids Com­munity HosJ?ital for over 15 years. She will be remembered most for the love she gave her family, the care she gave her pa­tients, and the warmth and hu­mor she shared with everyone she met. Bertha was preceded .in death by her parents, two sis­ters, Ruth Johnson and Wilpia Davison, both of Eaton Rapids, her. beloved husband Fred, and their son Fred Lewis. She is sur­vived by two sisters, Josephine Rodosovich of Williamsburg, VA, and Wanda Price of Omaha, NE; four children, Joseph E. (Agnes) Bullen of Charlotte, Rex E. (Ruth) Bullen of Ontonagon, Bernetta (Michael) Olin of Wacousta, and Bertha Bullen (James Kruse) of Okemos; six grandchildren; four great­grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Family will re­ceive friends on Friday at the Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m. Funeral service will be Satur­day, December 15th at 1:00 p.m. at the Skinner Funeral Home, followed by interment at the Bunker Cemetery in Eaton Rapids. In lieu of flowers, family and friends may honor Bertha's memory with a donation to the VFW National Home for Chil­dren in Eaton Rapids, the Courts of Holt Nursing and Rehabilita­tion Center in Holt, or In-House Hospice Solutions in Southfield. LSj l J/1310·7

Merwin Grimes, Ph.D. Eaton Rapids, Ml Formerly of Califon, NJ

Age 83, passed away peaceful­ly Thursday, December 13, 2007 in Eaton Rapids, after a brief struggle with cancer. Merwin was born in Jackson County, grew 1

up on a farm in Eaton Ra{'ids, graduated from Eaton Rapids High School (~lass of 1940), and pursued. a higher education in biochemistry. He graduated with his Bachelor's degree from Western Michigan University, married an~ began .a family. Merwin rece1".ed h~s Master's from Vanderbilt Uni­versity (Nashville), anq Php. from Michigan State Umvers1ty where he became a professor and researcher. He moved to University of Montana (Missoula) and was a pr~fessor of Biochemistry. Merwin left academe in 1961 ·and moved !O New Jersey to follow a career m research with Ortho Pharmac~u­ticals. He lived in SomerVIlle and Bridgewater, later moved to Califon where he bec~e the Mayor for 13 }'.ears .. During . re-

. tirement Merwm en1oyed pamt­ing houses. He returned home to Eaton Rapid~ in . Mar~h of 2007 and resided m Riverview Apart­ments. Preceded in death by his parents, David and Lela (Sova) Grimes; brothers., Anson . '!fld Max Grimes; sister, y1VIa_n (Grimes) Parsons; Merwm 1s survived by 1 daughter, ~eggy (Patrick) Wolf of East Lans~ng; 1 son, Jim (Roberta M~rtme.z) Grimes of Pasadena, Cal1forma; 4 grandchildren, Thomas and Theresa "Terry" Wolf, Kate (Matt) Eide, and Matthew Martinez-Grimes; 1 great­granddaughter, Liliana Eide; brothers, Alfred Grimes of _Lan­sing, Donald (Delores) qr~~s ofEaton Rapids; sisters, V1rgu;ua (Leo) Gruesbeck of Perry, Mip- . nie Klink of Saranac; SP,ec1al niece "daughter", Hope Grimes; many other nieces and nephews; and former wife, Marya (Dzialowski) Gripies of ~ast Lansing. Memonal sel'Vlces will be held 1:00 p.m. Sunday, December 16, Z007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 s. Main, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. SteP.hen ~ink offi­ciating. The f~ly will receive friends and family for one hour prior to the sery1ce. on Sunday. Memorial contributions may be made to "Friends of the Island Park" c/o Donald Grimes 1305 West St, Eaton Rapids in I!lem­ory of Merwm Grimes. www.shellyodell.com L 3 J

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Merwin Grimes, Ph.D.~) " Eaton Rapids, Ml \~ Fonnerly of Califon, NJ \'>~\!1\

Age 83, passed away peaceful-ly Thursday, December 13, 2007 in Eaton RaJlids, after a brief struggle with cancer. Merwin was born in Jackson County, grew up on a farm in

Eaton Ra{'ids, graduated from Eaton Rapids High School (~lass of 1940), and pursued. a higher education in biochemistry. He graduated with his Ba~he~or's degree from western Michigan University, married an~ began .a family. Merwin rece1".ed ~ Master's from Vanderbilt Um­versity (Nashville), anq Php. from Michigan State Umvers1ty where he became a professor and researcher. He moved to University of Montana (Missoula) and was a pr~fessor • of Biochemistry. Merwin left

1 academe in 1961 and moved !O New Jersey to follow a career ID research with Ort~o Phartnac~u­ticals. He lived m Somerville and Bridgewater, later moved to Califon where he becal!le the Mayor for 13 years .. DurIDg . re­tirement Merwin en1ored pamt­ing houses. He returned home to Eaton Rapid~ in . Mar~h of 2007 and resided ID RiverVIew Ap3f!­ments. Preceded in death by his parents, David and · Lela (Sova) Grimes; brothers.. Anson . '!fld Max Grimes; sister, y1Vla_n (Grimes) Parsons; Merwin is survived by 1 daughter, ~eggy (Patrick) Wolf of East Lans~ng; 1 son, Jim (Roberta M~IDe.z) Grimes of Pasadena, Cal1forma; 4 grandchildren, Thomas and Theresa "Terry" Wolf, Kate (Matt) . Eide, and Matthew Martinez-Grimes; .. 1 gr~at­granddaughter, L~1ana Eide; brothers, Alfred Grimes of ,Lan­sing, Donald (De~ores) qr~~s of Eaton Rapids; sisters, Vrrgil?la (Leo) Gruesbeck of Perry, Mip­nie Klink of Saranac; SP,ec1al niece "daughter", Hope Grimes; many other nieces and nephews; and former wife, Marya (Dzialowski) Grimes of East Lansing. Memorial services will be held 1:00 p.m. Sunday, December 16, Z007 at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Ho~e, 518 S. Main, Eaton Rapids, with the Rev. SteP.hen ~in!C offi­ciating. The family will receive friends and family for one hour prior to the serVIce on Sunday. Memorial contributions may be made to "Friends of the Island Park" c/o Donald Grimes 1305 West St, Eaton Rapids in I!lem­ory of Merwm Grimes. www .shellyodell.com

William "Bill" Wells s) ~ Barrett \, · l~~ Eaton Rapids, Ml Age 47, our loving ~usband, fa­ther brother and fnend, passed away December 17, 2007. Bo~n June 3, 1960 i~ Lan~ing, Ml. Bill loved his family, fnends, M.S.U. Hockey, and his dog, Duke. He I was a machinist for many year~. Bill was preceded in death by h!s parents, Mary Jane and pen~s P. Barrett. Surviving are ?is wife, Jean Barrett; his son, ~illy ~ar­rett; brothers and therr ~ves, Patrick (Nancy) Barrett, Richard w. (Cristy) Brandt., and Charles B. (Janet) Brandt; sister, S~aron L Brandt-Bahl· and many meces ~d nephews; 'and special father and mother-in-law, Frank and Kay. Webb. The family will re­ceive friends fr~m 1:00 to 2:90 p.m. Thursday with a Memonal service 2:00 p.m. Thursday, December 20, in the Tiffany Funeral Home, 3232 W. Sag1-naw, Lansing with t~e .Rev. Jeffery Williams offic1atmg. Contributions to the Eaton Com­munity Hospice, 2675 S. Cochran Rd, Charlotte! MI 48813 in memory of Bill. Friends may visit the guest book at www.tiffanyfuneralhome.com.

Steven A. Hector 'i\ ''\ Eaton Rapids, Ml ')UJ

L.-~) Steven A. Hec­tor, age 63, of Eaton Rapids died sunaay, December 16, 2007 at the Uni­versity of Michi­gan hospital in Ann Arbor after a coura-

A 1 geous battle ,w_ against leuke-

mia. Steve, our dearly loved hus­band, father, and grandfather, went to be with the Lord early in

· the mor~~H while surrounded by his £ y. Steve was born October 25, 1944 in Eaton Ra­pids, the son of Ronald and Car­ol (Corbin) Hector. Steve was a Springport High School gradu­ate, ana went on to receive a Ba­chelor's Degree and a Masters Desree from Michigan State· University, where he became an ?vid MSU SJ?Orts fan. He served m the Marme Reserve during the Vietnam War, but was not called up for active duty. A member of the First Congrega­tional Church in Eaton Rapias, he served on several special committees as well as Chairman for Board of Trustees. Preceding him in death were his parents, Ron and Carol Hector. Surviving are his wife of 40 years, Jo Ann; 3 children, Thomas (Michelle) Hector of Eaton Raf ids, Andrew (Sarah) Hector o Grandville, and Rebecca Rector of Eaton Rapids; 5 grandchildren, Ashlea and Brendon Hector, Katie, Joshua and Jacob Hector; 2 brothers, Gary (Ava) Hector of Springport, Danny (Wendy) Hector of Eaton Rapids; sister, Carolyn (Jim) Eaton of Eaton Rapids; half-sisters and brothers, Jean Jackson, Joyce (Herb) Sign­or, Don (Chris) Hector and Barry Hector; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be Thursday, December 20 at 11:00 a.m. from the First Congregational Church in Eaton llapids with the Rev. John Metcili and the Rev. Steven Klink co-officiating. Bur­ial will follow at the Rosehill Cemetery in Eaton Rapids. Fa­mily will receive friends at the Skinner Funeral Home on Wed­nesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. For those desiring, memorial gifts may be made to either the Eaton Community Hospice or the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Michigan in memory of Steven Hector. For online condolences please go to www.SkinnerFuneral Home.com "We will meet you in the morn­ing just inside the eastern gate."

Vera Belle (De Waters) McMann L~) Eaton Rapids, Ml I 2-( )blD'

Age 82, died Tuesday, De­cember 18, 2007 in Charlotte. · Vera was born October 18, 1925 in Eaton Rapids Township, the daughter of Melvin Curtis and Margarette Gertrude

(Brininstool) Dewaters. She re­tired from Eaton Rapids School System in 1982 after 20 years as a cook. Vera touched many lives by opening her door to anyone at anytime. Preceded in death by her husband, Alvin C.; 2 sons, Alvin Jr., and Rickie; 4 brothers, Melvin, Marion, Floyd and Les Dewaters; Vera is survived by 2 daughters, Vicki (David) Mathews of Sparta, TN, Barbara Richardson of Eaton Rapids; son, Les (Beatrice) McMann of Eaton Rapids; 17 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; 16 great­great-grandchildren; brother, Homer (Phyllis) Dewaters of Potterville; sister, Louise (John) Cousino of Olivet; 2 sisters-in­law, Helen Dewaters of Eaton Rapids, Dorothy Dewaters of Lansing; and many nieces and ne.Phews. Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m. on Fri­day, December 21, 2007, at the Shelly-Odell Funeral Home, 518 S. Main, Eaton Ra­pids, with the Rev. Jim Riley of­ficiating. The family will receive friends and family at the Funeral Home on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Those desiring may make contributions to Eaton Community Hospice in memory of Vera Belle McMann. www.shellyodell.com

Karen Ann Rabideau. ,~ Eaton Rapids, Ml \. S) \Y.'

\'). . Born m Bozeman, Mon­tana on Decem­ber 17, 1960 to Donald and Carol (Erdahl) Christenson. She went to be with the Lord on December 24, 2007. Karen graduated from

Haslett High School in 1979 and attended both Lansing Commu­nity College and Oakland Uni-versity. She married Joe Rabideau on January l, 1987. After graduatmg from high school she studied physical ther­apy and nursing, and later went on to work with her husband in his kitchen design studio, Wil­liamston Cabinets. Karen's pas­sion was serving Jesus Clirist alongside her husband at Bikers' Church in Mason, Michigan and previously at Mount Hope Church in Lansing. She loved her church family as much as her own. She was a most selfless person and gave generously .of her time, her heart and her spir­it. She had a passion for people and was truly a servant-hearted person. Karen is survived by her husband, Joe; daughter, Melissa; parents, Don and Carol; sisters, Laurie (Rick) Osmun and Beth (Rob) Bienvenu; loving ne­phews, Tyler and Joshua Osmun; father-in-law, Gordon Rabideau; mother-in-law, Rita (Homer) Warden; as well as nu­merous relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by an infant son, Adam. She loved her family and was a committed wife and mother. She also en­joyed Scooter, her Basset, flow­ers, the new home she and her husband built and riding motor­cycles with her biker dude hus­band. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 28 at Mount Ho~ Church, 202 s. Creyts Road, Lansing with the Rev. Dave Williams officiating. The family will receive friends at Gorsline­Runciman Funeral Homes, 900 E. Michigan Ave., Lansing on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. and one hour prior to the ser­vice at the church. For those de­siring, donations may be made to the Rabideau Family.