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Ann “Nee” Stephanie Poley passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on December 1, 2024, at Michigan Medicine in Ann Arbor at the age of 82.
Ann was born in St. Louis, Missouri on February 19, 1942, and lived in Chelsea, Michigan. Ann was the daughter of Stephen Harvey and Lucille (McHenry) Nicholson.
There are no words that could capture the caliber of woman that Ann was, but here is the closest one could come to doing so:
Ann was a devout Catholic, having attended Catholic school as a young girl. She attended and became an active member of Zion Lutheran Church in Chelsea after marrying her husband Howard Poley, Jr., and returned to her Catholic roots, attending St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea. Ann would always tell her friends and family she was “rolling the beads” for them when prayers were needed. Her rosary went with her wherever she went and was worn thin from use.
In her years of working, Ann was a school bus driver for Manchester Public Schools for 27 years. She also had a long list of part-time jobs. After she retired, she became an active member of the Manchester Senior Citizens where she enjoyed helping with meal preparations and striking up conversations with friends and strangers alike.
Ann was a fierce woman and as tough as they come, yet one of the most kind, compassionate, and loving women to grace this Earth. Nobody knew this more than her husband, Howard, who she loved with all of her heart and soul; and was her dearest friend in life. Howard and Ann did everything as a couple, and took on challenges as a team.
Ann thoroughly enjoyed reading and would always carry a book with her. Ann loved animals, specifically cats, of which she had a large number, and birds, which she watched on her many bird feeders. She also loved to sit in public and watch people pass by. Ann enjoyed spending time at their cabin in Oscoda, Michigan during the summer months and relaxing.
Ann married Howard R. Poley, Jr. on February 14, 1996, at Zion Lutheran Church in Chelsea, and he survives. She is also survived by her sons, Mark (Tracy) Fenelon of Tecumseh, and Timothy (Terri) Fenelon of Brighton; her stepsons, Doug (Sarah) Poley of Grass Lake, and Dan Poley of Texarkana, Texas; six grandchildren, Frances and Jack Fenelon, Lauren and Aaron Fenelon, and Austin and Logann Poley; nieces, Kim (Mike) Smith, and Karen Dulle; two great-nieces, Megan and Courtney; and great-great-nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; and sister, Mary Pat Zackiewicz.
The Funeral Mass will be held Thursday, December 5, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, with the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Zion Lutheran Cemetery, in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, Wednesday from 2-4 and 6-8 (with a vigil service at 7 p.m.), as well as at the church Thursday from 10-11 a.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Cascades Humane Society of Jackson, 1515 Carmen Dr., Jackson, MI 49202, or Faith in Action, 603 S. Main St., Chelsea, MI 48118.
Kelly Lorraine (Stebelton) Vollmar
of Chelsea, Michigan
Age 62, peacefully went to be with the Lord on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor. She was born April 3, 1962, in Detroit, the daughter of Richard Tyrone and Patricia Lorraine (Moore) Stebelton.
Kelly graduated from Chelsea High School in 1980, and attended William Tyndale College from 1980-1984. She was the office manager at Pucci Vollmar Architects from 2009-2024.
She was a very active member of Immanuel Bible Church in Chelsea. Kelly ministered to youth for 25 years, serving most recently in AWANA. She was also the Area Director for Youth For Christ. Kelly was an accomplished singer and dedicated her voice to the Lord. She was outgoing and had a dry wit. Kelly was fiercely loyal and always signed her letters that she was “in His grip.”
On October 19, 1991, Kelly married Karl Vollmar in Ann Arbor, and he survives. Other survivors include her daughter, Charis Lorraine Vollmar of Chelsea; her parents, Dick and Pat Stebelton of Grand Haven; two brothers, Michael (Linda) Stebelton of Chelsea, and Mark (Lisa) Stebelton of Grand Haven; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 7, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at Immanuel Bible Church in Chelsea. A private burial will be held at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, Friday, December 6, from 2 – 4 p.m. and 6 – 8 p.m., as well as at the church Saturday, from 10 – 11 a.m.
Flowers are welcome or you may make a memorial contribution to Youth For Christ in her name at https://lansingyfc.net/.
Doris Ann (Downer) Taylor
of Ann Arbor, MI, formerly of Chelsea
Age 93, died Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor. She was born December 28, 1930 in Chelsea, Michigan, the daughter of Darwin R. and Cora K. (Bollinger) Downer.
Doris was born and raised in Chelsea. She graduated from Chelsea High School, and went on to earn her bachelors and Masters in Education at Michigan State University. After college, Doris spent her life in Ann Arbor, becoming a Spartan and a Wolverine fan. Doris taught in the Ann Arbor Public Schools, ending at Tappan Junior High School. She left teaching to raise her children.
After her divorce, Doris restarted her career in the late ’80’s as a sales representative in the publishing industry, serving school libraries of Michigan. She loved to travel, and her sales job allowed her to travel all over Michigan, where she knew all the school librarians by name.
Survivors include her son, Stuart R. Taylor of Bloomfield Hills and her two granddaughters, Ava and Brooke Taylor, who were the light of her life. She is also survived by her brother, Butch (Laura) Downer; her sister, Jane Merkel of Naples, FL; many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Julie Taylor; her brother, Charles Downer; and her sister, Marian Boyce.
A memorial service will be held Sunday, December 8, 1:30 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea with Rev. Wallace Tatara officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends on Sunday from 12:30-1:30 pm.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Julie Ann Taylor Cancer Research Fund at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor.
John Gagern Riske
Age 76, died Thursday, November 28, 2024 at Chelsea Hospital.
He was born April 24, 1948 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Edwin A. and Gertrude E. (Gagern) Riske.
John attended Lutheran East High School and graduated in 1966. He attended EMU, and then Concordia Seminary in Springfield, IL. John was a Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod Pastor who served churches in Hale, MI, Glennie, MI, Bach, MI, and finally at St. Thomas Lutheran in Ann Arbor before retiring from ministry.
John’s passion was music. He enjoyed playing the piano, organ and singing, he also played the organ at various churches, most notably for Mt. Calvary Church in Detroit and Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea. John was currently a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church. John liked telling jokes, goofing around with his family, and playing with his grandchildren.
On June 21, 1969, John married Lois Blystone at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor, and she survives. Other survivors include his children, Michael of Manchester, Sarah (Greggory) Twietmeyer of Starkville, Mississippi, and Stephen of Manchester; seven grandchildren, Jason (Lauren) and Jordan Riske, Aaron, Luke, Elsa, Emily, and Isaiah Twietmeyer; his siblings, Ed (Karin) Riske of Chelsea, Ruth Hartwick of Storm Lake, Iowa, Grace (Dale) Rosema of Grand Rapids, Lois (John) Sullivan of Mandeville, Louisiana, and James (Theresa) Riske of Shelby Township; and many nieces and nephews. John was proceeded in death by a brother in-law Thomas Hartwick.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, December 3, 2024, Noon at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea, with Rev. Daniel Pezzica officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel on Monday from 2-4 & 6-8 pm and at the church Tuesday from 11 am- noon. Memorial contributions may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church.
Shirley Ann Luhouse (nee Wright)
from Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Dearborn Heights
Age 89, passed away November 15th, 2024 at home, with her family lovingly by her side.
A cherished individual known for their kind, loving, caring, and witty personality, lived a life filled with tremendous love for her family and faith.
Shirley married Robert John Luhouse on July 25, 1954, in Dearborn. He preceded her in death on November 29, 2010. She is survived by her son, Robert John Luhouse, Jr. of Westland; her daughters, Linda Kaye (Darrell) Spruce of Chelsea, and Karen Marie Kehoe of Milford; 4 grandchildren, Sarah (Mike), Rachel (Devon), Bobby, and Eric (Kate); 11 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great grandchildren; and 5 nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, step-father, and great-great-grandchild.
Shirley’s ancestors arrived in America from England in the late 1600’s. She was born at her grandparents farm house in Ohio. She spent much of her childhood learning about farm living by riding the horses as they pulled the plow for her grandpa and enjoying time with the barn animals. Her love of animals continued throughout her life.
After her father’s untimely passing, she moved to Michigan at the age of ten with her mother. During her teen years, she became a tap dancer and performed in several recitals. Shirley graduated in the class of 1953 from Dearborn High School, where she met her future husband and went on to have three children. In her late 20’s, she taught herself how to drive prior to taking her driver’s test. She proceeded to join a bowling league, a women’s pinochle group, participated in her children’s school functions, and enjoyed being a Sunday school teacher.
Her love of music was apparent by her album collection. Her home was filled with the sounds of her whistling and singing. Later, she worked as a ward secretary at Oakwood Hospital until she retired in 2000. In her lifetime, she cherished her family and close friends. A woman of faith, her legacy exemplified love of family. Her kind, caring, witty personality will be greatly missed.
Services will be held at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea on Tuesday, November 19th at Noon, with Reverend Douglas Campbell officiating. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 10:00am-12:00pm. Following the funeral, burial will be at Parkview Memorial Cemetery in Livonia with a succeeding luncheon.
Donald Gilbert Hay
of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Jenison
Age 94, passed away peacefully Wednesday, November 6, 2024, with family by his side. He was born August 24, 1930, in Fort Madison, Iowa, the son of Gilbert and Maxine Hay. Loving husband of the late Jacqueline “Jackie” Sigwards for 53 years.
Donald graduated from Fort Madison High School in Iowa. He then served 4 years in the US Navy during the Korean War where he was trained as an electrician. After serving, Donald worked as an electrician and maintenance foreman for Steelcase Inc. for over 35 years. Donald was a member of the Steelcase Retirement Club and an active member of the Georgetown United Methodist Church.
During retirement, he and Jackie spent their winters in Long Key, Florida with family and friends. He loved spending time with his family and enjoyed playing tennis, fishing, hunting, playing cards, and gardening.
He is survived by his children, Ken (Sharon) Hay of Bloomington, Indiana, Pamela (Peter) Lee of Milford, and Ron (Linda Hudson) Hay of Ann Arbor; his sister, Norma Jean Raymond of Oak Lawn, Illinois; seven grandchildren, Zachary, Connor, Justin; Jacob, Sammy, Isabel; and Jack; and loving nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, November 16, 2024, at Union 212, located at 212 Union St. Milford, MI from 1-4 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to UMRC Porter Hills Foundation, to the Benevolent Care Fund East, http://mybrio.org/.
Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
Craig Stephen Courtney
of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Saline and Menominee, Michigan
Age 52, passed away suddenly on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at his home. He was born March 13, 1972, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, the son of Stephen and Norma (Conrad) Courtney.
Craig graduated from Menominee High School in 1990, and then went on to Central Michigan University before earning his Master’s degree at Eastern Michigan University. He worked for Creative Solutions which became Thomson Reuters in Dexter/Ann Arbor until 2016, and then for Parishsoft.
Craig enjoyed all sports especially golfing, and he loved gambling… he would shark you any day, i.e. pool, darts, and shuffleboard, you name it. He had a sharp wit and a sarcastic sense of humor.
Craig is survived by his two sons, Ryan and Sean Courtney of Saline, Michigan; his mother, Norma Courtney of Chelsea, Michigan; sister, Sheryl (Juston) Taylor of Cheyenne, Wyoming; niece and nephew, Sydney and Liam Taylor of Cheyenne, Wyoming; ex-wife, Lisa (Hoegler) Courtney of Saline, Michigan; and her family; step-mother, Gloria Courtney; step-brother, Chad Laurent of Menominee, Michigan; and step-sister, Becky Bauer of Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin. He was preceded in death by his father, Stephen Courtney.
A celebration of his life open house will be held at the American Legion in Saline, Michigan (320 W. Michigan Avenue Saline), on Saturday, November 23 from 1-4 PM (casual attire). Memorial contributions may be made to Dawn Farms (https://www.dawnfarm.org/donate/). Arrangements were made through Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
Richard William Simmons
of Chelsea
Age 84, was called home to be with his Lord on October 19, 2024.
He was born on January 23, 1940 in Wheeling, WV, son of the late Adair C. and Lila M. (Wilson) Simmons.
Richard graduated from Belding High School with the class 1957. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering (1961) and a Master of Science in Aeronautical & Astronautical Engineering (1963) from the University of Michigan. He met his beloved wife, Karen E. Briggson of Dexter, MI on a blind date to a dance and they were married on August 27, 1960. They were blessed with 64 years of marriage and three children.
While completing his master’s program, Richard worked on multiple projects related to the early Apollo space missions. He traveled to Cape Canaveral and Ascension Island to participate in rocket launches and testing for NASA. Post-graduation he worked at Bendix Corporation in Southfield, MI for many years and then took a position at Artos Engineering in Milwaukee, WI, working until his retirement in 2005.
Richard was a man of great faith and active church member. He served as an elder for many years and loved singing in the choir with Karen. He was an accomplished trap shooter, computer guru and devoted University of Michigan football fan. He enjoyed camping and trail riding in northern Michigan when he was younger, even convincing Karen to ride a motorcycle. In retirement he treasured his many trips with Karen to Mackinaw City or down to Georgia for Thanksgiving, one of his favorite holidays.
He will be remembered as someone always there to help others in any way.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Gary, and his son David. He is survived and eternally loved by his wife Karen, daughter Pamela (Eric) Anderson of Eatonton, GA and son Rick (Kristina) Simmons of Ann Arbor, MI, five grandchildren: Evan (Erica) Anderson of Denver CO, Cameron (Janie) Anderson of Atlanta, GA, Amanda (Matthew) Oetting of Plymouth, MI, Zackary Simmons of Seattle, WA, Emma Grace Anderson of Roswell, GA; two great-grandchildren, Louise Cecilia Anderson and Everlee Grace Oetting. In honoring Richard’s wishes cremation has taken place.
The family will receive friends from 1-2 p.m. on Friday, November 8, 2024, followed by a memorial service and reception at Peace Lutheran Church, 8260 Jackson Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103 with Pastor Andy Pronsati officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a memorial donation be made to Peace Lutheran Church.
Charles Max Quandt
of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Grass Valley, CA, Garden City, MI, and Harper woods, MI
Age 92, died Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at LakeHouse Senior Living in Kalamazoo. He was born December 14, 1931, in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Wesley W. and Victoria C. (Grose) Quandt, Sr.
Charles was a Korean War Veteran, serving in the Army Corp of Engineers. He worked for many years as a Purchasing Agent for General Motors at Fisher Body in Livonia, retiring in April of 1988. He was also a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea. Charles enjoyed playing golf, skiing, hunting, and fishing in the summer. In the winter, he enjoyed building model boats and airplanes.
On January 14, 1955, he married Carol Helen Schroeder at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Dearborn, MI, and she survives. Other survivors include a daughter, Christa (Phil) Perri of Kalamazoo, MI; a son, Carl (Lorraine) Quandt of Hale, MI; 3 brothers, Wesley Quandt, Jr. of Cedar Hill, TX, Edlin Quandt of Indian River, MI, Preston Quandt of Fraser, MI; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Robert and David; a sister, Anne (Charles) Garman; Wesley’s wife, Charlotte; and Edlin’s wife, Maria.
Funeral services will be held Monday, October 28, 2024, 11 a.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea, with Rev. Daniel Pezzica officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the church Monday, from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1515 S. Main St., Chelsea, MI 48118.
Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
Deborah Jane Oakley was born at Detroit’s Henry Ford Hospital in 1937 and died at home on August 21, 2024.
She was the daughter of Kathryn Willson Hacker and George F. Hacker. They lived in Wyandotte, MI until 1945, moving to Fort Wayne, IN for the rest of her early life.
Using money saved from cleaning offices, she presaged a life of international interests by studying French at the Collège Cévenol (Haute Loire and a center of WWII French Resistance) in the summer of 1953. She graduated with high honors in political science from Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania in 1958. She married her collegiate sweetheart, Bruce Oakley, the next week and moved to Providence, RI where she received an MA degree in political science from Brown University and was the Director of Teenage and Adult Programming at the local YWCA.
The couple then spent one year in Stockholm, Sweden where Debby worked for Gunnar Myrdal and made lifelong Swedish friends. During the next two years while living in southern California, they had their first child, Ingrid (a rare native Angelino); then their second child, Brian, after settling in Ann Arbor, MI.
With encouragement from the University of Michigan’s Center for Education of Women, Debby became part of “A Dangerous Experiment” enrolling with three other married women for further study. As one of those then-considered obstreperous women, she received an MPH followed by a PhD from the U-M.
During her years as a faculty member at Michigan, she received funding from state, federal (NIH), and private sources and served as a member of federal NIH and state review and advisory panels. Her research at the U-M’s School of Nursing focused on women’s health and included ground-breaking tracking of contraceptive behaviors and institutional effects on women’s health in the U.S. and China, evaluation of delivery care by certified midwives (as compared with obstetricians), documentation of nurse-managed centers in the U.S. and China, and women’s health behaviors in Iran.
She was known as a knowledgeable and dedicated mentor to colleagues and students in her own School of Nursing, elsewhere in the university, and other countries. Debby collaborated extensively with colleagues from multiple universities and was grateful for her long-time collaborator, the late Meiyu Yu, MD, PhD. Together they established an educational and research partnership with Peking Medical University School of Nursing (as it is now known), with support from the Kellogg Foundation and the Robert DeVries Scholars. She also served on the Board of Directors of the local and national Planned Parenthood, and as an American Public Health Association member, she helped found and led what is now the Section of Sexual and Reproductive Health and APHA’s Women’s Caucus.
She attended the 1974 U.N. Conference on Population in Bucharest and represented the International Public Health Association at the 1975 United Nations meeting on women. As a delegate of the International Federation of Public Health, she attended the 1984 U.N. meeting on women in Mexico City. In her more than two decades of retirement as a Professor Emerita, she continued as a peer-reviewer for international journals, benefited from work as an ESL tutor, loved her garden, and greatly enjoyed the increased time to interact with friends. As a Political Science major, she spent countless hours working to get out the vote.
Married for more than 66 years, she traveled the world with her husband and spent time in Mexico reviving his childhood memories and making new friends. Their 20+ years of retirement together were lovingly productive. Debby was especially proud of her children and promoted their international interests: Ingrid’s two years teaching with the Peace Corps in Lesotho (Africa), and Brian’s two years with the JET program teaching in Hokkaido, Japan.
To assuage the empty nest syndrome, she worked with Chelsea teachers to develop a Sister-City program with Shimizu-cho, Hokkaido that lasted for more than 25 years. To honor her parents, Debby developed Katie’s Grove of birch trees and daffodils on their property, and an endowed George Hacker student internship at the U-M’s Clements Library. Her parents and her brother, David Willson Hacker, all now gone, were great influences.
Survivors include her patient and talented husband; her precious and beloved children and grandchildren, Ingrid (Michael) and their children Olivia and Yost; Brian (Angela) and their children Sophia and Willson; a niece, Sarah and her daughter Ellie; a nephew, Jonathan (Kristen) and children David and Maggie, and a great-nephew, Zachary.
A celebration of life will be held at the Chelsea Depot Saturday, November 2, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Planned Parenthood or National Public Radio (NPR).
Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, MI.
Edward Ivan Ball, 72, died Thursday, October 3, 2024, at the VA Medical Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan, after a battle with liver and kidney disease.
Ed was born on Aug. 28, 1952, to Norma (née Wood) Ball and Ivan J. Ball in Quantico, Virginia, where his father was stationed as a serviceman in the Marine Corps.
Norma and Ivan moved back to Iowa City, Iowa, when Ed was a baby so that they could be closer to their families. He attended public schools in Iowa City, graduating from West High School in 1971. After high school, Ed enlisted and served eight years in the U.S. Navy. Achieving the rank of Petty Officer First Class, Ed ran the jet engine test cell on the flagship aircraft carrier USS Nimitz.
He received an honorable discharge and later became a professional butcher, a career he enjoyed for many years until retirement.
Ed loved the outdoors. While he always especially enjoyed hunting and fishing, solely being in nature was a pleasure to Ed. He played harmonica and Native flute, bringing beautiful music to his family’s vacation campfires in northern Michigan over the years. He was also a skilled scrimshaw artist.
Ed was preceded in death by both of his parents. He is survived by his brothers, Richard and David, and sister-in-law Deborah Loewenberg Ball; niece Sarah Ball Hakala; nephews Joshua and Jacob Ball, and grand-nephew and nieces Owen, Emme, and Lucy Hakala; aunts Virginia (née Bross), Mary Ann (née Waldschmidt), uncles William and James, and many cousins.
Donations may be made in Ed’s memory to Huron-Clinton MetroParks (https://mihuronclintonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/donation.html) or to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Michigan State Parks (https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/giving) to invest in preserving and improving the beautiful public outdoor spaces that Ed loved so much.
A memorial service will be held later this fall in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
Raymond John Sleep was born in Detroit, Michigan on June 11th, 1931 to Alice (Neish) and John Sleep. He was the eldest of their three boys, including Richard and Ernest.
Ray’s love for literature, writing and learning began at a young age and he loved to teach himself. In childhood, he skipped school to lie on the roof of their Detroit home and read. He and his brothers had many adventures boating and swimming in the Detroit River near Belle Isle. Ray graduated from Southeastern High School in 1949 and went on to Wayne (State) University. He left Wayne University in pursuit of his dream of becoming a writer and moved to Manhattan in 1949 for six weeks, when he ran out of money and claimed, “my pen just wouldn’t write a story”.
After returning home, Ray was drafted into the US Army in 1951 to serve in the Korean War. Ray served as a Corporal with the 313th Military Intelligence Platoon and was stationed in Kornwestheim, Germany. He lived and served with his small unit in a villa where eventually he would meet a beautiful housekeeper, his future bride, Helene Magdalene Schwarzwalder. Ray always said, “It was love at first sight”. They married on March 6th, 1954. After being discharged from the Army, Ray earned college credit taking classes at the University of Maryland’s branch in Munich, Germany. Upon returning home to the United States with Helene, Ray continued classes at Wayne University and graduated in 1956 with a bachelor’s degree in English.
Ray pursued his love of writing as a news man. He worked at the Mount Clemons Monitor-Leader, Garden City Guardian, Detroit Free Press, and finally as an editor at the Ann Arbor News, where he worked for 36 years.
Ray and Helene have four children – Emily (Tim Bensette) Elliott, Bob (Julie) Sleep, Barbara (Tim) Dobberstein, and Ann (Gregg) Rosenbery; 11 grandchildren – Ryan (Amy) Elliott, Ben (Meghan) Elliott, Leslie (George) Remy, Mitchell (Keri) Sleep, Chelsea (Jason Evans) Sleep, Madeline (Alex) Goodman, Alex Dobberstein, Jacob Dobberstein, Nicholas Rosenbery, Amelia (Mason) Kaiser, Megan Rosenbery; and 14 great-grandchildren – Anna and Owen Elliott, Michael, Elizabeth, and Caroline Elliott, Evelyn, Alaina and Abigail Remy, Riley and Sawyer Sleep, Jaclyn and James Evans, and William and Gwendolyn Goodman.
Ray and Helene lived in Ann Arbor for 33 years before retiring in Chelsea in 1998. Ray loved to read. His favorite novel was Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, which he continually encouraged his family to read. He also loved to watch University of Michigan Football, attend many of his grandchildren’s events throughout the years, and watch Jeopardy with Helene. The couple was always together and celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary in March. Ray was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.
Ray passed away peacefully at home on September 28th, 2024, surrounded by family and Helene, his “curly haired girl from across the sea”.
The immediate family will be gathering for a celebration of his life to honor Ray.
Raymond Michael (Mike)Tarasow passed away August 16, 2024. He was born 12-25-47 in Detroit, Michigan, to parents George Raymond and Lorraine Carroll Tarasow. He was raised in Chelsea, Michigan, began a family with wife Lauralyn in Ypsilanti, Michigan, and later moved the family to California in1980 where they settled in San Ramon.
Mike graduated from Chelsea High School in 1966. He went to Western Michigan University for his freshman year, and then transferred to and graduated from Eastern Michigan with a degree in marketing in 1972. Mike worked at Dana Corporation from 1967 to 2000 when his division was sold to the Parker-Hannifin Corporation. He continued to work at Parker as Western District Manager until 2022, when he retired.
Mike loved sports. He was on the football, basketball, and track teams in high school and played football his freshman year at Western Michigan. In California, he played softball for many years on the Mark’s Deli Raiders that later became the Hamill’s Raiders. He coached Little League baseball and soccer. He was also a league equipment manager and served on the San Ramon Valley Little League Board. He loved to run and participated in several half marathon and 10K races in Michigan, California, Colorado, and Hawaii.
Mike traveled extensively both for work and leisure and liked to sneak in a round of golf when he could. He has been to all the states except Maine and Vermont and especially enjoyed beach vacations with his wife and family and visiting friends and family in Michigan.
Mike was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, and brother. He leaves behind his wife, Lauralyn, two sons (Ted and Tim), four grandchildren (Sam, Erin, Max, and Emily), and a great granddaughter (Charlotte), plus his daughters-in-law (Sandra and Gigi) and his brothers and sisters (Melissa, Christine, Sheila, Christopher, Dave, Denise, Marc, and Chris).
Please make any memorial donations to San Ramon Valley Little League, Chelsea District Library, or the Alzheimer’s Association.
James Henry Robbins
of Chelsea, MI
Age 90, passed away on September 16, 2024. James was born on October 17, 1933 in Luther, MI, the son of Forest and Hattie (Koch) Robbins.
He honorably served our country in the United States Army during the Korean War. On June 12, 1955, he married Betty Jane (Haimbaugh), who survives him.
In addition to his wife, Betty, he is survived by two children, Diane (Jay) Hughes of Ann Arbor and Steven (Shelly) Robbins of Grass Lake; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; and his sister, Margaret Hunerjager of Niles, MI. He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Gordon (Mary) and Donald (Phyllis), and grandson, Shelby.
Jim worked at Mallek’s gas station in Ann Arbor and the Ann Arbor Fire Department. He was a skilled electrician and a proud member of the Local 252 IBEW. He was a member of the Ann Arbor American Legion, the Post 46 Hunt and Fish Club, and the local Moose Lodge. In 1968, he and Betty built their current home in Chelsea. Jim was also a dedicated member of the Chelsea Fair Board and the First United Methodist Church for many years.
Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing, farming, playing euchre and generally puttering or tinkering on a variety of objects.
A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, September 26, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea, with Rev. Joy Barrett officiating. Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea Community Fair, to Michigan Heart, or to the Veterans Administration-Community Living Center in Ann Arbor, MI (VA-CLC).
Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.
Robert Hamel
Age 55, passed away Thursday, August 29, 2024 at his sister’s house in Chelsea.
He was born February 17, 1969 in Garden City, the son of Edward Robert and Kathleen Mae (Waun) Hamel.
Robert graduated from Chelsea High School in 1987. He was a chef at many restaurants, but was especially known for working at Thompson’s Pizza. His colorful character impacted many people. Robert loved life, enjoying time with friends and family.
Robert is survived by his father, Edward Hamel of AZ; son, Nicholas Donovan Baltzell of Ann Arbor; daughter, Lorelai Jean Houk of Saline; his brother, Todd Hamel of Chelsea; sister, Laurie (Troy) Schiller of Chelsea; step-brothers, Kevin (Sharon) Koch of Ann Arbor, Jason Koch; step-sisters, Jennifer (Doug) Groves of Grass Lake, Julie (Riley) Holtz of Adrian; 3 nephews; 6 great-nieces & nephews; and a special friend Heidi Boyer. He was preceded in death by his mother, Kitty Koch, and step-father, Gary Koch.
The family will greet friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Sunday, September 8 from 2 to 4 pm.
Memorial contributions may be made to Faith in Action.
Ben Ross
of Ann Arbor, Michigan
Age 87, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at his home. He was born November 9, 1936, in Licking, Missouri, on the kitchen table, the son of Lucious Lloyd and Opal Etta (Stair) Ross.
Ben earned his Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Michigan. He worked at Experimental Station in Palmer, Alaska, and then at Meyers Aircraft Company in Tecumseh. He then worked as an Engineer at Chrysler Proving Grounds in Chelsea for 36 years. Ben was a member of Immanuel Bible Church in Chelsea.
On July 13, 1957, he married Sandra E. Sherrod at Dexter Gospel Church. She preceded him in death on September 12, 2018. He is survived by his daughter, Kathy Ammerman of Gwinn; two sons, Tim (Alicia) of Chelsea and Dan of Lake; five grandchildren, Lindsey (Matt) Green, Ethan Ammerman, Matt Ross, Haylie Ross, and Josh Ross; two great-grandchildren, Quinten and Cole Benjamin; nieces, Yvonne, Becky, and Patty; and nephews, David and Ben. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his son, Don Ross in 1994.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, September 4, 2024, 5:00 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Dr. Lumen Strong officiating. The family will receive friends before the service from 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. A private burial will take place at Vermont Cemetery in Chelsea.
Memorial contributions may be made to Immanuel Bible Church, Attention: Treasurer, P.O. Box 250, Chelsea, MI 48118.
Sandra Lee “Sandy” (King) Bowman
of Manchester, Michigan
Age 78, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 26, 2024, at her home.
She was born February 28, 1946, in Ypsilanti, the daughter of Elmer and Ethel (Wolff) King. Sandy worked at the GM Assembly Plant in Willow Run until her retirement. Later, she worked with Billy at Time Trek Motorsports (from 1991-2001) and then for Jim Bradley from 2001-2010. She and Billy bowled at Bellville Lanes, Taylor Lanes, and Ypsi-Arbor Lanes. She shot skeet for 3 years and won many awards.
Sandy had a love for fast cars and she was right at home with Billy and his fast cars. Sandy wanted to race but women were not allowed to race in competition. Sandy went on street races with Billy and they spent their weekends at Milan Dragway in Milan. Once a year, Milan Dragway had a race for women only that was called the “Powder Puff Race.” Sandy entered each race and won every race she entered.
In 1988, Sandy raced her 1987 IROC Camaro street car in the Street Class and won the points which qualified her to go to Bristol, Tennessee, to IHRA ET Bracket Finals. Sandy managed to win 3 rounds, which was a big help in the team winning the Championship. Sandy was awarded the ROOKIE OF THE YEAR. In 1989, Sandy started racing every weekend and became one of the most consistent and feared racers in the Sportsman Class.
Sandy competed in her first, and only, National Event, the IHRA, “Northern Nationals” in 1989, and was Runner Up. Sandy’s racing friends gave her the nickname “The Granny From Ypsilanti” as she and Billy lived in Ypsilanti at the time. Sandy won 48 races, 18 runners up and 25 semifinalist finishes. Sandy was the Female Driver of the Year in 1990, 1992, 1993, and 1994; and won 2 Points Championships from 1988, to 1999. Sandy finished in the top 5 every year until she and Billy retired from racing in 1999.
On September 17, 1966, she married Billy Bowman, and he survives. She is also survived by her son, Jimmy (Becky) King of Nashua, NH; her daughter, Lisa (Phil) Bowman-Pintar of Mikado; a step-son, William Bowman of Pine Grove, KY; step-daughter, Jane (Arnie) Cadd of Newport; 10 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; a sister, Linda Bailey; sisters-in-law, Norma Jean Foley, Sharon Kay Workman; and many nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel on Thursday, August 29, from 2-8 pm.
Memorial contributions may be made to Sandy’s family (Checks to “Billy Bowman”).
Margaret Hotchkiss (Wilson) Schauer
of Ann Arbor, formerly of Chelsea
Age 75, passed away Saturday, August 24, 2024 peacefully at her home in Ann Arbor. She was born April 4, 1949 in Glasgow, Scotland, the daughter of James A. Wilson and Mary Ann (Gwynn) Wilson.
In 1967 she met the love of her life, Albert (Al) Schauer while he was stationed in Scotland at the Holy Loch with the US Navy. On September 13th, 1968 they were married in Maryhill, Glasgow Scotland. In 1970, they returned to Michigan and resided in the Cheslea area until moving to Ann Arbor in 1989.
Margaret worked at DAPCO and Colorbok in Dexter before retiring in 1997. When she was younger, she liked to volunteer at the Chelsea Community Hospital, Chelsea Retirement Center and at blood drives. Maragret also enjoyed bowling on the Chelsea Lanes Ladies team.
Margaret loved spending time with her beloved grandchildren and family. She loved animals, going to garage sales and thrift stores, camping and being an active member in her church, Covenant Church in Chelsea.
She is survived by her husband, Al; two daughters, Pam (Jesse) Brand of Napoleon; Heather (David) Heydlauff of Chelsea; six grandchildren, Jesse Jr. and Jacob Brand; Sabrina, Travis, Clifford and Ruby Heydlauff; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers (John, William and James Wilson), one sister (Lily Sutherland), and one very special friend, Mary Brooks.
Now Margaret can finally achieve one of her dreams of going to the Rainbow Bridge and be reunited with all of her beloved pets again. Per her wishes donations can be made to Cascades Humane Society, 1515 Carmen Drive, Jackson, MI, 49202.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, October 26, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at Covenant Church in Chelsea.
Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
Roslyn (Reule) Drummond Freed
of Williamsburg, Michigan
Roslyn Ann Freed (Grandma Rose), age 92, passed away July 25, 2024, surrounded with love at her daughter’s home, where she resided. Roslyn was a caring wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother who loved her family and had a great sense of humor.
Born January 25, 1932, to William and Armilla (Wolff) Reule, she grew up in the Chelsea area, attended Michigan State University and completed beauty school in Ann Arbor before moving to Plymouth where she raised her three children and lived for over 50 years, then moving to Northern Michigan to be closer to family.
Roslyn had a green thumb! While working at the University of Michigan, she spent many lunch hours at the Botanical Gardens learning about plants. She loved getting her hands in the dirt and spent years cultivating beautiful perennial gardens at her home.
She enjoyed thrifting, listening to music, hunting for rocks on Lake Michigan beaches, repairing and restoring vintage clocks and furniture with her late husband, spending time at their Manistee house, playing games with her grandkids, doing crosswords and reading the funny papers.
Roslyn was preceded in death by her husband, Plymouth L Freed, her parents, and her son, William Drummond. She is survived by her son, Walter Drummond (Dianna); her daughter, Dawn Shields (Rob), 5 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.
A private service will be held at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea, Michigan.
Memorial contributions may be made to Power Book Bags, a local non-profit she volunteered with or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.
Jennifer “Jenny” St. John
On May 19, 1976, God blessed our family with an incredible gift. Jennifer Ann St. John was born to Homer and Barbara St. John in Ann Arbor, Michigan. We had no idea the amazing journey we would be on for the next 48 years.
Jenny grew up in Chelsea, Michigan. She attended school at Washtenaw Intermediate School District and graduated from their young adult program in 2002. She had several jobs after graduation and worked at Huron River Area Credit Union for many years. In 2013 Jenny and her mom moved to Kalispell, Montana to be close to her Montana family.
Jenny had many challenges as a person with Down Syndrome, but she faced them with a lot of strength, determination and a great sense of humor which she got from her dad. Everyone she knew has a favorite Jenny story to share, and they always make us laugh.
There was no such thing as a stranger in Jenny’s world. If she thought you were hurting, she would give you a hug, tell you she loved you and that she would pray for you. Jenny had a smile that would light up a whole room. She had a very forgiving spirit and never held grudges.
Jenny could be very stubborn at times. If you asked her to do something she didn’t want to do, her answer would always be, “I Don’t think so!” Good luck changing her mind! If you were a guy and good looking, you might stand a chance. LOL
Jenny loved music, watching The Lawrence Welk Show, eating ice cream and going to church. Her favorite hymn was “Go make a difference”, and that she did! Jenny went to be with Jesus on June 19, 2024.
Jenny was preceded in death by her father Homer, her brother James and sisters Ann and Patricia. She is survived by her mother Barbara, her brothers, John and Paul, sister Ellen, and aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A funeral mass was celebrated July 5th, at Risen Christ Catholic Church in Kalispell, Montana.
Burial of her ashes will occur at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, 2028 Baker Road, in Dexter Michigan, on Tuesday August 13th, 1:00 p.m. There will be visitation and reception after at St. Mary’s Catholic Church Parish Hall, 14200 E Old US 12 in Chelsea.
Thank you God for giving us Jenny. She taught us far more than we could ever teach her. We love and miss you Jen!
Ruth Ann Koch
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Dexter
Age 84, died Friday, August 2, 2024 at The Willows at Howell, where she received excellent care for the last 3 months. She was born April 16, 1940 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Harold and Lucille (Thorpe) Sjostrom.
Ruth graduated Ann Arbor High School in 1958. She retired as a bookkeeper for Ann Arbor Carpets. Ruth grew up attending St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor, and helped start Peace Lutheran Church.
She and Bill were part of a “Hi-Lo” Camping Group. She enjoyed meeting up for coffee in Dexter Saturday mornings with a group of friends. Ruth enjoyed living in the country, in the house she and Bill built, where she liked to grow vegetables and flowers and watch birds. Ruth was devoted to her friends and family, and especially her grandchildren.
On October 12, 1963, Ruth married William Eugene Koch at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor, and he survives. She is also survived by her son, Brian (Amy Jennings) Koch of Pinckney; her daughter, Karen (Kurt) Walworth of Chelsea; grandchildren, Matthew, Catie, Austin, Kylie, Noah, Emma (Nick), and Cori. She was preceded in death by her father, Harold Sjostrom, her step-father, Clarence Rafeld; her mother, Lucille (Thorpe) Rafeld ; her brother, Keith Rafeld; and step-brothers, Ed Rafeld, Blair Rafeld, and Clarence “Jeep” Rafeld.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, August 6, 2024, 11:00 am at Peace Lutheran Church, 8260 Jackson Road, Ann Arbor, with Pastor Andy Pronsati officiating. The family will receive friends at the church Tuesday from 9:30-11 am. Burial will be held on Wednesday at Arborcrest Memorial Park in Ann Arbor.
Memorial contributions may be made to Peace Lutheran Church. Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
Cheryl Ann Allen (Shoobridge)
Glen Arbor, Michigan, formerly of Chelsea
Age 75, Cheryl passed away peacefully on July 22, 2024, in Traverse City, Michigan, surrounded by her family. She was born on April 4, 1949, in Detroit, Michigan, to Herbert and Lydia (Schultz) Shoobridge.
Cheryl and her husband, Tom, were married in July 1969 in Livonia, Michigan. She attended Michigan State University and later earned her degree in interior design from Eastern Michigan University. Cheryl’s unique sense of style and attention to detail contributed to her successful career in both commercial and residential design. She worked in the Detroit area, Phoenix, Arizona, and for many years at Merkel’s in Chelsea, Michigan.
Cheryl was an avid reader, an artist, an excellent cook, enjoyed gardening, and loved her many dogs. Above all, Cheryl cherished time with her children, grandchildren, and friends, and went out of her way to make occasions together special. Some of her favorite memories included fires on the beach up north, hosting holiday dinners, trips to Chicago, special time with her grandchildren, Lake Michigan sunsets, and road trips with Tom.
Cheryl was a deeply involved wife, mother, and grandmother, always there to support her loved ones’ activities, sporting events, and milestones. Cheryl had an infectious laugh, was creative, thoughtful, and determined to find joy and appreciation in the little things, despite many years of living with and enduring treatments for CLL and other interrelated health issues. Cheryl will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Please remember her for the love, kindness, and laughter she shared, rather than the sadness of her passing.
Cheryl is survived by her husband of 55 years, Thomas “Tom” Allen; her children, Kimberly Allen Sareny of La Grange, Illinois, and Jason Allen (Tracy) of Troy, Michigan; her grandchildren, Elizabeth and Jacob Sareny of La Grange, Illinois; and her nieces, Sue Burkhalter of Gwinn, Michigan, and Lori Stewart of Munising, Michigan. She was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Doris Kirsch and Beverly Chatt, and brother Herbert Jr. “Buck” Shoobridge.
Cheryl will be laid to rest in Chelsea, which she always described as “home.” The family will host a private celebration of life in the fall for close friends and family. Please consider making a memorial donation in Cheryl’s honor to the CLL Society by visiting cllsociety.org.
Linda Weber
of Grass Lake, Michigan
Age 61, died Friday, July 26, 2024 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Ypsilanti. She was born October 29, 1962 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Albert L. and Helen L. (Grattan) Weber.
Linda graduated from Manchester High School in 1981. She worked at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital as an in-home helper, and ended in Billing. Linda participated in activities at Salem Grove United Methodist Church. She loved history and genealogy, and enjoyed playing cards with her family.
She is survived by her brother, Michael (Judy) Weber of Manchester; her sisters, Nancy (James) Heydlauff of Chelsea, Cathy Weber of Grass Lake; and several nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 10, 11:00 am at Salem Grove United Methodist Church, with Pastor Mary Barrett officiating. The family will receive friends from 10-11 am before the funeral. Burial will take place at Maple Grove Cemetery, Chelsea at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Mercy Hospital/Trinity Health. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.
Patience “Pat” Jean Becker
of Augusta, Michigan, formerly of San Diego, California; Chelsea, Olivet and Sherman Lake
Age 81, died Monday, July 29, 2024, at Bickford Senior Living of Battle Creek. She was born March 28, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Leroy and Helen Louise (Purcell) Myers.
Pat earned her bachelor’s degree in 1970, from Olivet College. She then took additional credit hours from Western Michigan University to get her permanent teaching certificate. Pat taught middle school mathematics and retired from Bellevue Community Schools after 30 years. Pat enjoyed traveling throughout the United States, Canada and Europe.
She loved quilting and made many quilts over the years. She was a member of the North County Quilters Association in San Diego, CA, and the Ann Arbor Quilt Guild. She also loved to play bridge with other people and online through OKbridge.
Pat married Mark Becker on June 11, 1965, in Grand Rapids, and he survives. She is also survived by her daughters, Katherine (Steve Wells) Becker of Dexter, and Anne Kristine (Larry Jay) Becker of Las Cruces, New Mexico; her son, Karl (Anna) Becker of Poland; sister, Molly (Phil) Hassing of Oshtemo Township; and five grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Funeral services will be held Friday, August 2, 2024, 1:00 p.m. at Galesburg United Methodist Church, Galesburg, Michigan with Pastor Darwin Kuhl officiating. The family will receive friends at the church before service from noon – 1 pm. Burial will be at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea.
Memorial contributions may be made to Galesburg Historical Society, 190 E Michigan Ave, Galesburg, MI 49053.
Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
Barbara E. Ullman
Born May 31, 1925 in Toronto, Canada to Minnie and J.F. Clark Whalley.
Wife of Joseph Ullman (died 1995) and long-time partner of Ronald Dean. Mother to Sara Cumming (Ian Cumming) and Katie Ullman (Daniel Wettstein), step-mother to Esther Ullman (Morley Witus) and Ruth Michelson (Paul Cockrell).
She was also proud to be the grandmother of Eli (Alex), Leah (Dennis), Dan, Leora, Megan (Duncan), Graham, Emme, Eleanor, and Kobi, and the great-grandmother to the next generation.
Barbara attended Victoria College in the University of Toronto for undergraduate studies, followed by a master’s degree from the University of Toronto’s Botany Department, and later a PhD from the University of Michigan Department of Botany.
After starting a family in Ann Arbor, she and Joe moved out to Chelsea, added a menagerie of animals, and grew a large garden. She later moved into a home of her design, where she spent many years enjoying the company of family, the surroundings of wildlife and plants, and Ron’s companionship.
Barbara’s interest in textiles led her to be a founding member of the Spinner’s Flock, a regional group with a shared interest in raising sheep and producing hand-spun wool. Barbara was also a member of the University of Michigan Faculty Women’s Antique Group for several years and an avid reader. She had a long-time interest in learning about the natural history and life of trees and she kept a sharp eye on the political front.
She is remembered by friends and family for her artistic talents as well as her good humor and kindness and patience.
Barbara died peacefully on July 25, 2024.
The family will have a private celebration of life.
Anyone wanting to make a donation in her memory could consider one of her favorite charities: Best Friends Animal Society, the Alzheimer’s Association, or the National Audubon Society.
We would like to thank Arbor Hospice caregivers and Drs. Margaret Dobson and K. Thiran Jayasundera for their care and kindness.
Joseph E. Williams
of Grass Lake, Michigan, formerly of Chelsea
Age 53, died Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice in Jackson. He was born March 22, 1971, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of James E. Williams II and Denise A. Houle.
Joe graduated from Chelsea High School, class of 1990. He earned his Associate’s Degree in Technology from Baker College of Jackson. Joe worked for Penske out of Chrysler Proving Grounds as a Metrology Engineer. Joe had a passion for the outdoors, loved his dogs, and had a great sense of humor. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating, water skiing, swimming, and riding his motorcycle. He was baptized at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea.
Joe is survived by his daughter, Emilee (Jake) Honey of Fowlerville; his fiance, Shelley Lukenich of Grass Lake; and Shelley’s children, Carly and Kassidy; his mother, Denise Houle of Chelsea; his father, James E. (Tam) Williams II of Jackson; his brother, James “Jimmy” (Kim) Williams III of Waterloo; two grandchildren, Emma Honey and Mabel Honey; aunts and uncles, Craig Houle of Chelsea, John (Tami) Houle Waterloo, Annette (Ron) Landwehr of Commerce Township, Renee (John) Allen of Commerce Township; nephews, Dillon and Luke; and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Donald and Dorothy Houle, and Betty and James Williams, Sr.
A funeral mass will be held Tuesday, July 30, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, with Fr. Satheesh of the St. Louis Center officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the church before the service from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Louis Center, 16195 W. Old US Hwy 12, Chelsea, MI 48118 or Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice, 2150 Kingsbrooke Dr., Jackson, MI 49202.
Philip Charles Musolf
Beloved father, grandfather, and brother passed away suddenly on July 16, 2024 at the age of 71.
Born on November 10, 1952 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Robert Dawson and Wilma A. (Coval) Musolf. Philip lived a life marked by love, dedication, and service to others.
Philip is survived by his loving children Sara (Rex) Nye, Myra (Greg) Sommers, his siblings Mark (Patti) Musolf, Glen Musolf, Elinor (Andy) Thomas, Elaine (Mike) Lauerman, Eileen (Alan) Augustine and his cherished grandchildren Samantha Nye, Abbie Nye, Nik Sommers, Ethan Dunahoo and Elle Dunahoo. He was a devoted family man who always put his loved ones first, providing a strong foundation of love and support.
Philip’s career was one of hard work and integrity. Philip attended St. Mary School through 8th grade, and graduated from Chelsea High School in 1970. He worked for Hydromatic, then opened Phil’s Service in 1983 where he operated his full service auto mechanic shop. Philip worked for several garages, including Harper Pontiac, Side Street Garage, and finally Haas Transmission. He was respected by colleagues and friends alike for his unwavering honesty and commitment to his work.
Phil cherished spending time with his daughters, Sara and Myra and their families. He loved attending NASCAR races or spending hours watching them on TV. The last several years he reconnected with some high school classmates and he found joy traveling around southeast Michigan listening to the Sea Cruisers play. You could find him dancing the night away in his own quirky style. Phil loved his pet cats over the years, his most recent fur baby, Willy.
He was a thoughtful, kind, do anything to help you kind of guy. He always worked on individuals’ cars that couldn’t afford to pay much; It was his act of charity. He will be missed by his family, friends and his beloved cat, Willy.
Philip was a man of deep faith. His kindness, generosity, and gentle spirit were evident in all his interactions. He touched many lives with his compassion and willingness to help others. He was truly ONE OF A KIND!
A memorial service to celebrate Philip’s life will be held on August 4, 2024 3:00 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea. The family will greet people from 1-3 pm. A private burial will take place at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Cascades Humane Society or Jackson Interfaith Shelter in Philip’s memory.
Philip Charles Musolf will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, kindness, and integrity will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to be part of his life.
Carol Ann Farabaugh
of Ypsilanti, Michigan
Age 80, passed away peacefully after a short illness on December 12, 2023. She was born in Detroit, Michigan on March 29, 1943, the daughter of Frank and Dorothy Valone.
Carol was a school bus driver for the Ann Arbor Schools and then for the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority for over 20 years. She graduated from St. Rita High School in 1961. In 2002, she moved to Ypsilanti and spent many years there with her best friend Duke (her dog). She loved spending time and caring for her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She attended the Chelsea First UMC in Chelsea for many years. She was a very spiritual person and had an unwavering trust in God.
Survivors include her sister Rochelle StAmour; three daughters, Dawn Price, Linda Fields, and Liza Gray-Jarvis (Delmar Jarvis); 5 grandchildren, Sonya Robbins, David Robbins, Lauren French (Brandon French), Austin Gray, Alyssa Gray; 5 great-grandchildren, Amira, Ari, Aniya, Elias and Evelyn.
Please join us anytime between 12-3 pm at 12894 Territorial Road, Stockbridge, 49285 on July 28 to celebrate the wonderful mom, sister, grandma, great grandma, friend, and co-worker that Carol was. She loved and cared for so many and is missed by all. Let’s share our stories. We will have a celebration of life ceremony at 12:30 with food to follow.
Beverly Ann Sager
Passed away Sunday, July 7, 2024, at her home in Chelsea, Michigan, at the age of 86.
Ms. Sager was born June 9, 1938, in Jackson, Michigan, the daughter of Stanley A. and Anna Marie (Norman) Dyer, Sr.
Ms. Sager graduated from Chelsea High School in 1956. She worked in several industries throughout her life including farming, manufacturing, food service, floral, and accounting. She retired from the accounting department at Washtenaw Community College in 2003. Returning to Chelsea in her final years, she enjoyed living at The Pines Retirement Community and was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church. Ms. Sager was a generous soul, volunteering and always ready to offer what she could to those in need.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Anna and Stanley Dyer, Sr.; her siblings, Shirley Briggs and Stanley Dyer, Jr.; and her sons, Daniel Sager and Kenneth Sager. She is survived by her daughters, Vickie (Ronald) Barnhardt and Bonnifer (Todd) Ballard; 11 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.
A funeral service will be held Friday, July 12, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church, with Rev. Daniel Pezzica officiating. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Jackson. The family will receive friends Thursday, July 11, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
Memorial contributions may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church,1515 S. Main St., Chelsea, MI 48118 or Chelsea Senior Center, 512 Washington St., Chelsea, MI 48118.
Charles “Chuck” Schauer
Chelsea, MI, formerly of Northfield Township
Age 87. Chuck was called to heaven by his Lord on July 3, 2024. Chuck was born in Dearborn on April 26, 1937, the eldest child of Harold and Doris (Martin) Schauer.
He was raised in Dixboro with his three brothers and one sister.
He was a proud graduate of Ann Arbor High School (now Pioneer) class of 1955. There is where he met his beloved and cherished wife, Charlotte. On October 7,1955, they were married at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Northfield Township. They were members there for over 40 years. They created a home at Charlotte’s family farm in Northfield Township that was in the family for three generations. Here they had a community of fellow farm families that became lifelong friends that spanned multiple generations. There they raised their three daughters and one son.
In 1994, Chuck and Charlotte moved to Chelsea, where they spent the rest of their lives. They were closely involved in the raising of their eight grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.
Chuck and Charlotte were married for 62 years and together for 65 years. They were devoted to each other until the end. They loved hosting all the major holidays for their family such as Halloween, Christmas, etc. In the end their little family of six grew to over 30 people.
In 2017, Charlotte was called to heaven to join their daughter, Sharon. Both passed due to long and courageous battles with cancer.
Chuck was an active member of the community for many years. He was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea. He worked for The Ann Arbor News from age eighteen until he retired in his early 60s. He was a member on the Lima Township board for many years. He also worked at Cole Funeral Chapel, part time, until his cancer diagnosis.
Chuck enjoyed watching the University of Michigan Hockey and Football teams and was a member of the Dekers Blue Line Club. Chuck was a proud Wolverine. He also loved bowling, euchre, sailing on cruise ships, but his greatest joy was being with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Teaching many how to ride bikes, work with tools, and how to build and woodwork in the shop in his home. He enjoyed taking them to the Chelsea Fair and for Big Boy breakfasts on school and summer breaks.
Chuck also helped the Chelsea Boy Scouts and was a proud scout leader for many years. He helped with various projects around the community including helping to build the band stand that sits outside the CHS band parking lot.
Survivors include his daughter, Linda (Patrick) Engel of Dexter; one son, Leonard Schauer of Chelsea; and his two sons-in-law; Andrew (Amy) Smith of North Carolina and Douglas Sherman of Chelsea.
Also surviving him is his eight very much loved grandchildren. His grandchildren include: Amanda Smith of North Carolina. Danielle “Danie” Engel, Cindy (David) Ahrens, Jeremy Schauer all of Chelsea, Leonard (Crystal) Schauer Jr., Brian (Christina) Leland and Tina (Steve) Cubberly all of Jackson, and Kristopher ‘Kris’ (Megan) Clow of Brooklyn, Michigan. 30 great-grandchildren and his one great-great-granddaughter were his pride and joy.
He was preceded in death by two of his daughters, Sharon Smith, Viola (Wheeler) Schauer Sherman; a son-in-law, Leon Wheeler; and his parents, Harold and Doris.
Funeral services will be held Monday, July 8, 11:00 am at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea, with Rev. Daniel Pezzica officiating. A private family burial will be held at St. John’s Cemetery in Northfield township. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Saturday and Sunday from 2-4 & 5-7 pm and at the church Monday, from 10-11 am, with service to follow.
Memorial contributions may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1515 S. Main St., Chelsea, MI 48118.
Marcia Hawker
Age 75, died Thursday, June 27, 2024, at her home in Grass Lake surrounded by family. She was born August 22, 1948, in Grand Haven, MI to Harold Rosema and Alice Dieters.
She graduated from Western Michigan Christian Highschool in Muskegon, MI in 1966.
In 1968 she married Henry TenBrink. Though this relationship was not permanent, they adopted and successfully co-parented their children Billy and Jennifer.
On December 30, 1986, Marica married Henry (Hank) Hawker. Through this loving union they had two sons, Zachary and Landon. They lived in Ann Arbor for several years until they finally settled in Grass Lake, MI where they have resided for 30 years.
Marcia was an active member of the Waterloo Methodist Church. She held many roles, participating and organizing many successful church activities, including mission trips.
As a wife and mother, she exemplified strength and grace. Her selflessness extended beyond just those closest to her; it touched the lives of countless individuals who were fortunate enough to have been under her care.
Marcia dedicated herself professionally to healthcare. She received her Emergency Medical Technician certifications from Washtenaw Community College and Grand Valley State University. She later became a State of Michigan licensed EMT and Advanced EMT/Paramedic. Marcia was also a nationally registered EMT.
As an EMT, Marcia worked for Horne Vincent Ambulance in Washtenaw County, AMCare Ambulance in Wayne County, and Suburban Ambulance in Oakland County. She also worked in the Endocrinology Department at the University of Michigan, Physician’s Clinical Lab in Ann Arbor, for Dr. Eugene Parnell in Ypsilanti, and 8-10 years doing home care for the elderly in which she affectionately cared for many Alzheimer’s patients.
Marcia not only cared for people, but she loved animals, too. This was evident in the variety of animals she cared for over her lifetime; whether it was providing comfort or rescuing those in need—her heart overflowed with empathy towards all creatures great and small. Marcia also had a passion for baking, crafting, quilting and especially lighthouses. She also had a good sense of humor.
Marcia you are loved more than words can express—and your legacy will continue through the countless lives you’ve impacted during your time here on earth.
She leaves behind to cherish her memory, her husband of 37 years, Henry of Grass Lake; her three sons, William (Jean) TenBrink of Rosharon, TX, Zachary Hawker of Flowerville, and Landon Hawker of Grass Lake; her daughter, Jennifer (Kwame) McKinnon of Detroit, MI; her brother, Norman Rosema of Fremont and niece, Heather Rosema of Grand Rapids; and four grandchildren, Brianna , Myah, Leah TenBrink of Rosharon, TX and Nia McKinnon of Detroit. She also had a special bond with her bonus daughter, Pat Self of Ypsilanti.
She is preceded in death by her parents, sister-in-law Donna Rosema and nephew Todd Rosema.
A graveside service will be held at Spring Lake Cemetery in Spring Lake, Michigan.
Mary T. Elliott (MacDougall)
Passed away July 1, 2024 in Chelsea, Michigan at the age of 93 years.
Born October 29, 1930 in Detroit, Michigan to the late Bridget Agnes (Farrell) and Ronald Stephen MacDougall. Brothers were the late Daniel (deceased in infancy), Ronald and Daniel MacDougall. Preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, John E. Elliott, she is mourned by her six children: Mary Therese McElyea (Charles) of Bluffton, SC; John E. Elliott, Jr.(Jane) of Plymouth, MI; Anne Marie Simsarian (Gregory) of Laguna Hills, CA; James G. Elliott( Laura) of Yardley, PA; Mary Grace Smith ( Matthew) of Plymouth, MI and Charles J.P. Elliott (Jacqueline)of Grosse Pointe, MI.
Grandmother to 14 grandchildren: Clayton Elliott (Sterling); Aris and Douglas Simsarian; Alyssa and Ashley Elliott; Charles (Chloe)and J.P. McElyea; C.J., Libby and Christopher Elliott as well as Barbara, Jack, Peggy and Teresa Smith. Great-Grandmother to Maggie and Liam McElyea.
Mrs. Elliott was the daughter of an Irish immigrant Mother (County Leitrim) and her Father was born in Nova Scotia, Canada. She graduated from St. Agnes High School (1948) in Detroit. As a young woman, Mrs. Elliott worked as a secretary for the former MacManus (D’Arcy MacManus) advertising agency (Detroit), prior to marriage.
Mrs. Elliott and her family were members of the Holy Name Catholic Church and residents of Birmingham, Michigan for 35-years. Mrs. Elliott dedicated her entire life to raising her six children, caring for her husband and looking after her grandchildren when they were very young. She was devoted to the needs of each of her six children and faced life’s challenges with realism, good humor and unconditional love for her entire family.
Her love and encouragement provided her family with the foundation for their happiness and success in life and she will be greatly missed.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Chelsea Retirement Community Benevolent Care Fund East.
Madeline “Mickey” (Magroot) Romero
of Chelsea, formerly of Bowling Green, Ohio
Age 93 died Sunday, June 16, 2024, at the home of her daughter. She was born on July 5, 1930, in Sugar Ridge, Ohio, the daughter of Marion and Caroline (Foster) Magroot.
Madeline managed apartments in Bowling Green, Ohio. She also worked in the house cleaning department at Bowling Green State University, Marathon Products, and Cain’s.
She absolutely loved spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Madeline spent many wonderful years with her spouse, Antonio, and he preceded her in death on June 1, 2004. She is survived by her son, Larry (Bonnie) Hudspeath of Wauseon, OH; daughter, Frances Romero of Chelsea; daughter-in-law, Sheila Romero of Bowling Green, OH; stepsons, Tom Romero of Livonia, MI, and Tony Romero (Phyllis) of Lantana, FL; sister, Lulu Montalvo of Bowling Green, OH; 15 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. In addition to Antonio, she was preceded in death by her son, Gary Romero.
A grave site service will be held at Wood County Memorial Gardens, 15360 Liberty Hi Rd., in Bowling Green, Ohio on Friday, July 19th at 2:30PM with a Celebration of Life immediately following at the Eagles, 1163 N. Main St., in Bowling Green, Ohio. Memorial contributions can be made to Faith in Action, Chelsea, MI, or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, MI.
Thomas W. Goodman
of Chelsea, Michigan
Age 80, died Saturday, June 15, 2024, at Chelsea Hospital.
He was born August 19, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Walter F. and Lorraine (McGinnis) Goodman.
Tom graduated from Plymouth High School in 1962. He joined the US Air Force, serving in Viet Nam. Tom worked for GM for more than 20 years at Willow Run Assembly, and later worked for AVFuel in Ann Arbor for over 10 years. Tom was a big University of Michigan and Penn State football fan. He and Shirley used to serve bologna sandwiches at the Chelsea Fair Parade and Tom loved to taste test Shirley’s German potato salad.
On October 3, 1970, Tom married Shirley Lou Pfaus at Bethel Church in Manchester, and she survives. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Gerald Goodman.
A casual memorial service will be held Wednesday, June 19, 2024, 2:00 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Rev. David Bucholtz officiating. The family will receive friends on the day of the service from 1-2 p.m. A private burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea.
Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Hospital, Trinity Health Office of Philanthropy – Southeast Michigan Trinity Health, PO Box 995, Ann Arbor, MI 48106-9736 or https://giving.trinityhealthmichigan.org/chelsea.
James “Jim” Stevens
Age 80, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, June 11, 2024 at Wellbridge of Pinckney. He was born July 19, 1943 in Manistee, Michigan, the son of Joseph A. and Alice B. (Swanson) Stevens.
Jim graduated from Buckley High School in 1961, and then served in the United States Air Force from 1961-1965, in Italy and Crete. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Owosso Bible College.
Jim and Judy fostered 32 boys between 1965-1980. He was very involved with serving within the Church of the Nazarene. He served as youth pastor from 1972-1974, at the Lansing South Church of the Nazarene and was a Sunday School teacher over the years in many locations. He later attended Chapman Memorial Church in Vicksburg, and most recently was a member of the Chelsea Church of the Nazarene. Starting in 1974, Jim worked for the Federal Prison System in: Marion, Illinois; Oxford, Wisconsin, Lake Placid, New York; Oakdale, Louisiana, and retired as a Safety Manager in Milan.
On July 10, 1965, he married Judy Brenner in Perry, Michigan, and she survives. Other survivors include his son, Jeff (Anne) Stevens of Lowell; his daughter, JoEllen (Matthew) Barnes of Chelsea; three grandchildren, Blake, Sydney, and Sara Barnes; and his brother, Alan (Roberta) Stevens of Buckley; grand step-children, Tanner and Hunter; and 2 step-great granddaughters. He was preceded in death by a brother, Ed Stevens and sister, Joanne Wheeler.
Funeral services will be held Friday, June 14, 2024, 11:00 am at Chelsea Church of the Nazarene, 12126 Jackson Road, Dexter MI 48130, with Rev. Jeff Crowder officiating. The family will receive friends Friday from 10-11 am.
Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Church of the Nazarene. Burial will be at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan on Monday, June 17, 2024 at 10 am.
Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
Noal James BrownNoal worked at the University of Michigan for 42 years, as a Supervisor for the University stores. He was the President of the Chelsea Rod and Gun Club for 2 years. Noal enjoyed golfing and played at Radrick Farms Golf Course in Ann Arbor every Wednesday. He made bluebird feeders and houses and sold them at the Chelsea Farmer’s Market.
Noal married Janet Margaret Likovich Hegadorn on January 15, 1983, in Ann Arbor, and she survives. He is also survived by his daughters, Michelle (Paul) McCormick of Florida, and Lynn (Keith) Stevens of Willis; step-children, Steve (Minh) Hegadorn of Virginia, and Christine Jalynski of North Carolina; sisters, Sharon (Will) Leino of Brimley, Dee Dee (Dave) Trembly of Alto, New Mexico, Debbie (Ken) Jones of Adrian, and Becky (Rick) Boone of Willis; brother, Tony (Ginger) Brown of Onsted; grandchildren, Mitchell McCormick, Erin McCormick, Corey Stevens, and Sara Stevens; step-grandchildren, Jeremi Hegadorn, Devan (John) Hegadorn, Tyler (Sydney) Hegadorn, and Cailin Jalynski; step-great-grandchildren, Jackson Hegadorn, and Colton and Madeline Hegadorn; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Jack Brown, Norman Brown, Jerry Brown, and Gary Brown; sister, Joyce Henderson; and step-son, Keith Hegadorn.
A graveside service was held Friday, May 17, 10:00 am at Highland Cemetery in Ypsilanti.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea Rod & Gun Club, 7103 Lingane Rd., Chelsea, MI 48118.
Julia Katharine Luckritz
of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Solomans Island, Maryland, and Mountain Lakes, New Jersey
Age 77, passed away Sunday, May 19, 2024, at her home in Chelsea.
She was born October 12, 1946, in St. Louis, Missouri, the daughter of Arthur J. and Jessalyn D. (Cairns) Walters. She was a loving wife and mother who was dedicated to her children.
Julia and her husband were founding members of the Malignant Hyperthermia Association of United States (MHAUS) in 1981. She was a volunteer for the National Association for Child Development in Mountain Lakes, NJ, where she raised her two children. Julia was a home room mom for both of her children, as well as a Girl Scout troop leader and Den mother. She was a volunteer EMT with both of her children for the Boonton Kiwanis Ambulance in Boonton, NJ for nearly 10 years. Julia was an avid dog lover, breeding and showing Samoyeds.
On September 24, 1971, Julia married Robert Thomas Luckritz, and he survives. She is also survived by her daughter, Kera Elizabeth Luckritz (Mike) Drake of Chelsea; son, Robert Aric (Gerard Bradley) Luckritz of Austin, Texas; and brothers, John (Sue) Walters of Lexington Park, Maryland, Peter (Karen) Walters of Waynesboro, PA, and William Walters of Temple Hills, MD. She was preceded in death by her parents.
The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Wednesday, May 22 from 6-8 pm. Burial will be at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan. Memorial donations can be to Ozone House in Ann Arbor https://ozonehouse.org/support-us/volunteer/ or the Malignant Hyperthermia Association of the US https://www.mhaus.org/about/donation-options/honorifics/.
Larry Bean
On May 17, 2024 Larry Bean of Chelsea, Michigan, 64, took his last breath and peacefully passed into the world of endless Caves, Rocks and Coke.
What an amazingly special person he was in so many ways! Even on his deathbed, he had that sweet, calm, Larry smile that always warmed the hearts of those around him. I didn’t just lose my husband but truly my best friend and partner in life! He was an amazing man and lived every day of his life to the fullest. I do rejoice in the fact that he will no longer suffer, which he has tremendously in the last 3 years, from the cancer beast that moved into our home. Our son Jasper and I shared his last moments together and it was so good to see him finally out of pain. My heart is broken but I am so blessed that he gave me Jasper, and 33 years of endless love and fun!
Larry grew up in the shadow of the Shrine of the Little Flower Church in Royal Oak and attended the Catholic schools there. He acquired a Master’s degree in his passion in life, Geology, from Wayne State and used that to hold a 34-year career with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, where he regulated landfills as a dual district supervisor. We met at the State District Office, married in 1991, traveled for 10 years and had our son Jasper (named after a Michigan rock of course) in 2001 who has been the complete joy of our life.
The Fisher Ridge Cave System that is one of the longest caves in the world was discovered, explored and mapped by Larry and several other cavers. This was the love of his life before he met me! He loved rock collecting and even collected rare copper crystals in Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula with other geology friends. The rock theme continued into Rock Climbing, and teaching Geology as an adjunct professor at the University of Michigan Dearborn and Eastern Michigan University. He taught many local people, young and old alike, a love of rocks at the Waterloo Geology Eddy Center for many years.
He loved reptiles and snakes and cared for several box turtles as pets for over 30 years which gave him the name “Uncle Turtle” by his many nieces and nephews. Larry and I shared a love of all things old and found our dream 1870 historic home in Chelsea and filled it with antiques from our hobby of going to auctions. Trains of all sizes were another passion of his and he held the position of President of the Chelsea Depot Association for several years.
Larry was a one in a million person who had an infectious lifelong childlike wonder of everything around him. He was a little boy in a man’s body and he made life fun for all around him. He never had a mean thing to say about anyone and was very loving, forgiving and patient. I will carry him in my heart forever and look for him at the rainbow bridge in paradise!
Funeral will be held at the Chelsea Depot on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. with viewing from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Larry would not have wanted flowers, but for donations to go to the Chelsea Depot Association which he loved dearly!
Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.
Kirk Pitman Hansen
of Ann Arbor, Michigan, formerly of Lake Isabella
Age 49, passed away on May 14, 2024. He was born August 5, 1974, in Columbia, Missouri, the son of John Christian and Elizabeth Ann (Hornyak) Hansen.
Kirk graduated from Chippewa Hills High School in Remus in 1994. He earned his bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature from Central Michigan University in 1998. In 2000, he received a Master of Fine Arts in Writing and Poetics from Naropa University in Boulder, Colorado. In recent years, he lived in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and did contract technical writing.
Kirk was focused on creative pursuits. A poet, writer, musician and artist, he carried a deep appreciation for fine art, music, dancing, writing, and, especially, poetry. He was the lead guitar player in the band “Proud.” He met Rebekah when he was twenty years old. They shared a spiritual connection and had many adventures together. Kirk was reverent about life and had a unique presence that drew people to him. Kirk often said his greatest accomplishment was his daughter Anya, who was his world. He was a kind, gentle and devoted father to her.
Kirk is survived by his wife, Rebekah Bissell Hansen of Ann Arbor; his parents, John and Elizabeth Hansen of Chelsea; his daughter, Anya Hansen of Ann Arbor; his brother, Keith (Jennifer) Hansen of Jackson; uncle, Mike Hornyak of Ypsilanti; and nephews Ray Davis and Kyle Hansen of Jackson.
A memorial service will be held Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Rev. Mandy Beal from the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Ann Arbor officiating. The family will receive friends before the service Tuesday, from 4-6 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the college fund for Anya. (Checks to Michigan Education Savings Program.)
Winnie Parker
of Chelsea, MI
Passed away May 12, 2024 due to Lewy Body Disease.
She was born Winifred Suzane O’Haver on November 29, 1937 in Terre Haute, IN to Emma O’Haver. She was known as Winnie-Sue until she shortened her name to Winn. But to her family, Winnie always fit her best.
In her early years, she lived with her Grandmother and grew up with cousins and extended family nearby. During her junior year of high school, her beloved Grandmother passed and Winnie moved to Clarkston, MI to live with her mother and step-father. It was there that she met her first love, Jim Hagen. They married in 1955 and had three sons. She enjoyed being home with the boys and they kept her quite busy. But the young family suffered a life-changing loss when Jim tragically died in an auto accident.
Winnie and the boys moved in with relatives until she was able to find a way to support her family. Due to her endless determination, she secured a job as a secretary and rented a house for her and her boys, in Detroit, MI.
In 1964, she went on a blind date and met the second love of her life, Joseph Parker. They were married a year later and eventually added a daughter to the family. They moved to Chelsea when Joe took a job in Human Resource at the Chelsea Proving Grounds. Winnie went back to taking care of her family for many years until she returned to work as a secretary, also at the Chelsea Proving Grounds.
At the age of 35, one of the greatest moments in her life occurred – she met her biological father, John Roe. The instant connection they had was a valuable missing piece in Winnie’s life. She and her father had many similarities and they clearly enjoyed each other during the few years they had together. She also happily gained a sister and step-mother.
Winnie and Joe made a lot of wonderful friends through the years and enjoyed hosting their friends and family for dinners as well as boating, playing billiards, euchre and pinochle, dancing and watching movies.
She nurtured her own hobbies too and for years she roller-skated weekly, rode her bicycle and went cross-country skiing. Her crocheting and knitting skills were excellent and her family benefitted from her creations. She was also an avid reader, craft painter and maintained a strong spiritual faith.
When you spent time with Winnie, you would first notice her beautiful smile and sweet, quiet nature. But she also had an excellent sense of humor and the gift of perfect timing. She always enjoyed a good laugh-either with you or at your expense.
Winnie was a grandmother to eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She adored them all!
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Joseph Parker, her son Barry Hagen, and infant grandson Jeffrey Allen Hagen.
She is survived by her sons: Daniel Hagen (Pam Greenleaf-Hagen), Michael Hagen (Daniela), daughter: Dianna Kause (Jeff) all of Chelsea and daughter-in-law, Margie Hagen of Dearborn.
Grandchildren: Leslie Hagen (Kevin Doyne and great-grandson Oren) of Hayward CA, Julie Hagen of Ypsilanti, Kelly Hagen (Tony Franklin and great-grandson Enzo) of Pensacola, FL, Vincent Kause (Maggie Seifert) of Lansing, Julia Kause of East Lansing, Isabella and Ava-Reese Hagen of Chelsea.
Sister: Jennifer Ellison (Jeff) of Westfield, IN.
Plus, many nieces and nephews.
The family of Winnie Parker would like to thank the staff and volunteers at Chelsea Retirement Community and Towsley Village for the wonderful care of Winnie and support to the family.
A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In honor of Winnie, donations may be made to Ele’s Place, a center for grieving children and teens. www.Elesplace.org
“How lucky am I to have something that makes saying good-bye so hard?”
-Winnie the Pooh
Jason “J” Andrew AtLee
of Ypsilanti, Michigan
Age 43, died Monday, May 13, 2024, from injuries due to a motorcycle accident.
He was born August 7, 1980, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Cyrus “Cy” and Rowena May (Beebe) AtLee.
Jason graduated from Chelsea High School in 1999. He worked for 17 years as Zingerman’s Mail Order Manager. Jason earned his motorcycle mechanics license and was looking forward to starting his own business. He loved dogs, enjoyed photography, pinstriping, playing in several bands, and especially found joy in motorcycle riding. He considered the Washtenaw Alano Club his family. J always made himself available to help others with an open hand and loved to be funny and make people laugh.
In addition to his parents, Jason is survived by two brothers, Brian (Rebecca) AtLee of Marion, Ohio, Aaron (Kate) Dunigan AtLee of Ft. Collins, Colorado; a sister, Sarah (Wesley) Saulsbury of Pittsburgh; several nieces and nephews; and his ex-wife, Shevaun Wacker, and her son Colin Wacker. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Cyrus York and Megan AtLee, and Allen and Donna Marie Beebe.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 18, 2024, 3:00 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Pastor Mark Hendricks and Nate Perkins officiating. The family will receive friends Friday, May 17, from 2 – 4 p.m. and 6 – 8 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, and Saturday, before the service from 2 – 3 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Washtenaw Alano Club, 995 N. Maple Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48103.
Noah David Siewertsz van Reesema
Accomplished student and athlete, curious reader and traveler, loving family member and trusted friend, passed away to the next life on April 20, 2024.
Noah was born on December 8, 1997, in Northville, Michigan.
From an early age, Noah loved spending time with his extended family “up north” at the lake cottage skiing in the winter, boating in the summer, and relaxing with his books in the evening or playing strategy board games with his family. He especially cherished making new friends at the YMCA Storer Summer Camp in Jackson.
As he grew, he was able to ski out west and travel with his family throughout Europe. His early love for soccer turned to football and track in high school. Noah graduated from Chelsea High School in 2016. He made deep friendships competing as a teammate in sports. Playing football as a wide receiver and running track in 300-meter hurdles and high jump gave him the opportunity to experience State finals competitions in both sports with his friends.
Noah enjoyed playing saxophone and participated in “Company C,” a singing and dance ensemble, as well as finding peace in playing the piano at home. Noah was baptised at New Life Lutheran Church in Northville, MI and he was confirmed at St. Paul United Church of Christ in Chelsea, MI where he was a lifelong member.
Noah followed in his parents’ footsteps by attending Michigan State University, graduating in 2020 (his sister, Julia, also graduated from MSU in 2023). He was invited to join the Honors College and received a B.S. in Applied Engineering with a concentration in Supply Chain Management. Noah continued his track career by running the 400-meter hurdles on the MSU track team. He was also an active member of the Psi Upsilon fraternity (Philanthropy Chair) and Vice President of the Internal Relations Interfraternity Council. He was a proud Spartan and became a campus tour guide.
He enjoyed volunteering by helping to build homes for Habitat for Humanity through his fraternity. As part of an MSU student abroad program, he worked supporting children at a refugee camp in Greece.
After college, Noah moved east to Massachusetts and Connecticut, eventually landing back in the Midwest in Chicago, which he loved like a second MSU home. He worked as a global product manager in the life science industry, which allowed him to blend his engineering and business skills.
Noah had a lifelong passion for reading and travel, immersing himself in new people and cultures. His interest in foreign places took him to around 20 countries providing adventuresome memories and fun stories from travels with family or new friends. In middle school, Noah earned a trip to Japan to attend the Chelsea-Shimuzu Sister City Exchange Program. He traveled to South Africa with fellow incoming freshman MSU classmates, where he met some of his closest friends. His family hosted exchange students from Greenland, Japan and Vietnam. He liked to stay in contact and even took his sister Julia to Iceland to meet up for a visit. He traveled to Egypt where he rode camels while seeing the pyramids.
Noah is survived by his parents, Willem and Kristin S. van Reesema; sister, Julia S. van Reesema; Oma Carole S. van Reesema; aunts and uncles, Fred and Marelvi S. van Reesema, Martine and Craig Blogin, Bryan and Jamie S. van Reesema, Minta and Dave Hissong, and Curtis and Shannon Dobler; cousins, Kylie, Erin, Cameron, Fred, Peter (Rosie), Derek (Angelina), Nick (Lindey), Lauren (Jordan), Willem (Peyton), Alex, Lucas, Martine, Desmond, Bode and Feyre; and many great friends and family in Michigan and across the globe. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Opa Frederik “Peek” S. van Reesema; Gordon and Margaret Dobler, and Janis Wetherbee.
There will be a celebration of Noah’s life for family and friends at St. Paul United Church of Christ in Chelsea, MI, with the Rev. Eric M. Stricklin on Saturday, May 25, 2024. The service will be in the sanctuary from 10-11 am with a reception immediately following from 11 am – 1 pm.
If you would like to make a donation in remembrance of Noah, please consider YMCA Storer Camp in Jackson, Michigan, or your favorite charity or summer YMCA camp.
From your family and friends, Noah, thank you for your kindness, curiosity, and smiles. We wish you the peace and love that you shared with so many.
Janice Carol Moore
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Pinckney
Age 88, died Monday, May 13, 2024, at the Chelsea Retirement Community.
She was born April 7, 1936, in Plymouth, Michigan, the daughter of Russell Henry and Virginia (Berner) VanGilder.
Jan graduated from Fenton High School in 1954, earned her Bachelors degree in education from Eastern Michigan University, and a Master’s degree from University of Michigan. She taught Physical Education and English at Garden City East High School, and later was a counselor. She coached basketball, softball, and track, and was Michigan’s first woman High School Athletic Director.
She taught for 38 years before her retirement in 1994. After her retirement, she enjoyed riding her bicycle, and was a member of the Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society. She has been active at Faith Baptist Church in Chelsea, since 2005, including traveling on overseas missions.
In 1961, Jan married Blake Harrison Moore. He preceded her in death on May 26, 1995. Survivors include her son, Blake (Kimberly) Moore of Fowlerville; three grandsons, Robert, Ethan, and Lucas Moore; three brothers, Russell (Shirley) VanGilder, Jim (Jan) VanGilder, and Paul VanGilder; three sisters, Betty (Gordon) Marshall, Mary (Dave) Lenzi, and Pauline (Hank) Carabelli. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Tracy Moore in 2012; and a sister-in-law, Nina VanGilder.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 18, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at Faith Baptist Church in Chelsea, with Pastor Adam Summers officiating. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Plymouth. The family will receive friends before the service from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International (www.jdrf.org).
Robert Lee Rose
of Dexter, Michigan
Age 89, died Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at Trinity Health in Ypsilanti.
He was born June 25, 1934, in Milford, Michigan, the son of Cleo G. and Leola (Sackett) Rose.
Bob lived in Dexter all of his life. He graduated from Dexter High School in 1952. He served in the U.S. Army in Korea. Bob worked for Federal Screw Works in Chelsea for many years, retiring in 1989. Bob also worked along-side his in-laws, Robert and Eunice Murphy, at the Dexter Food Lockers (which was located on Main Street where the Painted Trout is located) where they butchered and packed meat for local farmers.
He was a lifetime member of St. Andrew’s United Church of Christ in Dexter. He was a lifetime Freemason with the Dexter Lodge, and later with Ann Arbor.
Bob loved spending time on Houghton Lake, at their cottage that his father built and traveling to the UP. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, and most recently, going to Cheryl’s summer house in Paradise, to watch freighters. Bob loved his UP adventures especially to the Keweenaw Peninsula. He especially loved the pasties from Toni’s Country Kitchen in Laurium.
On September 19, 1959, he married Darlene B. Murphy, and she preceded him in death on Sept. 22, 2018. He is survived by his daughter, Cheryl Masters of Dexter; and granddaughter, Tina Masters of Dexter. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his son, Jeffrey Allen Rose.
Funeral services will be held Monday, May 13, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at St. Andrew’s United Church of Christ, 7610 Ann Arbor St., Dexter, MI 48130, with Rev. Larry Van Slambrook officiating. Burial will follow at St. Andrew’s United Church of Christ Cemetery, also in Dexter. The family will receive friends at the church before the service from 10:00 -11:00 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the church.
Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
Mary Ann Whitford
of Jackson, MI, formerly of Gladwin
Age 86, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, May 4, 2024, peacefully with her family at her side at Legacy Assisted Living in Jackson.
She was born September 5, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Joseph and Marguerite (Zummo) Agrusa.
Mary graduated in 1954 from Nativity of Our Lord High School in Detroit. She did bookkeeping for Lee Wholesale Supply in New Hudson, MI. Mary attended Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Gladwin, MI. She was active with the Lion’s Club, White Cane Society, and pro-life activities. Mary taught Catechism for many years.
She enjoyed golfing, cross stitch, and making stained glass. Mary was a very giving person. Her family remembers her sense of tradition, family gatherings at their log home in Gladwin, golf tournaments on their par 3 golf course in their backyard, sitting together on their back porch in the morning and watching the deer and wild turkeys, our walks down their picturesque lane through their woods during each of the seasons, picking apples from their apple trees and making apple blue-berry cobbler, and apple pies. But we especially treasure our memories of Christmas family gatherings; making Christmas tree ornaments with all the grandkids, sleeping on any couch, chair or space we could find, cutting down our Christmas trees on their property, one to take home and one to decorate for grandma and grandpa to put all of our home-made ornaments on. Not to mention our special “Christmas Dinner” and enjoying her delicious wreath and macadamia nut-chocolate chip cookies. And then when our family got too big and not enough room, our fun Christmas celebration weekends at the Riverwalk Place in town.
In 1975, she married Gale Whitford, and he preceded her in death on September 9, 2023. She is survived by her children, William (Bobbie) Riley, Barbara (Rob) Kivett, Paula (Gary) Marken, Jeannie (John) Drew; a son-in-law, Henry Hogben; step-children, Sandra (Michael) Gale Bostwick, Deborah (Ken) Kanyo, Wendy Christian; a sister, Ann (Russ) Augusta; a brother, Pietro “Peter” Agrusa; 11 grandchildren; many step-grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by a daughter, Lee Ann Hogben; a brother, Salvatore “Sam” Agrusa; a sister, Josephine “Jo” Agrusa Kallioinen; and a step-daughter, Nancy Mullins.
No services are planned.
Memorial contributions may be made to Sacred Heart Mission for Gladwin County, 220 James Robertson Dr., Gladwin, MI 48624.
Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.
Sally M. Proctor
of Chelsea, Michigan
Age 86, passed away Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at her home. She was born February 9, 1938, in Chelsea, Michigan, the daughter of Robert A. and Jeannette E. (Corbiel) Wheeler.
Sally graduated from Dexter High School in 1956, and attended Cleary College. She worked for the Chelsea School District, starting as a bus driver, then as a secretary at North Elementary School, and eventually as Transportation Supervisor. Sally was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea. She enjoyed sports and spent a lot of time attending Chelsea sporting events. She also enjoyed cooking, and golfing at Inverness.
On June 11, 1971, she married Don Proctor, and he survives. She is also survived by her children, Erin Headrick of Virginia, Dale (Linda) Headrick of Portland, Oregon, Kelly Headrick of Plymouth, Eric (Kris) Headrick of Livonia; Lisa (James) Townsend of Ann Arbor, and Kristi of Chelsea; step-children, Dave Proctor of Harrison, Lori Iles of Chelsea, Janis (Neil) Horning of Chelsea and Rick (Lisa) Proctor of Florida; 23 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Joan Jeffreys; sons, Thomas and Todd; and step-daughters, Julie and Barb.
A Funeral Mass will be held Monday, May 6, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, with the V. Rev. Dr. William Canon Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, Sunday, May 5, from 2-5 pm, and at the church on Monday from 10-11 am.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church or Faith in Action.
John Andrew Miller
Of Chelsea
Age 78, passed away unexpectedly on April 5, 2024. He was the son of Stanely R. Miller and Bernice M (Sangbush) Miller.
Raised in Michigan, he graduated from Ida High School, Ida Michigan, a guitar player in “The Sandstones” ‘64, deemed small enough to fit in the nose cone, he repaired aircraft in the Philippines during the Vietnam war.
John and Mickey (Helen Michelle McNally) happily married in June of 1966. John had a successful career as a car salesperson, working for Lakeport VW, and Jim Yark in Toledo, Ohio and retired from Dunning Toyota, Ann Arbor.
John and Mickey moved to Chelsea in 2004.
He is survived by his daughter Jennifer Jimenez-Miller, her spouse Carol Jimenez-Miller, granddaughter Delaney Isobel Martin-Miller, of Columbus, Ohio and his best man/friend and trusted advisor, Dale Cummings of Munising, Mi.
Loretta A. Eder
Lifetime resident of Chelsea, Michigan
Age 95, died Friday April 26, 2024 at the Chelsea Retirement Community.
She was born April 1, 1929 in Chelsea, Michigan, the daughter of G. Alfred and Rose M. (Moeckel) Lindauer. Loretta graduated from Cleary College with a diploma in bookkeeping. She worked in finance for Chelsea Hospital, and did the bookkeeping for her husband’s business.
After retiring, she volunteered at Chelsea Community Hospital. Loretta was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea. She enjoyed working outside in the flowers, playing cards, and time with family and friends.
On April 25, 1953, she married Donald Eder, and he preceded her in death on September 22, 2007. Survivors include a son, Douglas (Marleyn) Eder of Chelsea; a grandson, Adrian “Ace” Eder; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Angeline Eder, a brother, Arthur Lindauer, and a niece, Tina Foster.
The Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, May 1, 11:00 am at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, with the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel on Tuesday from 5-7:30 pm, with a Rosary at 7:30 pm, and at the church Wednesday from 10-11 am.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church.
Viola Schauer Sherman
Chelsea, Michigan
Age 66, died Thursday, April 18, 2024 at Michigan Medicine (U of M) in Ann Arbor.
She was born May 20, 1957 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Charles Harold and Charlotte Ann (Sell) Schauer.
Viola graduated from Whitmore Lake High School in 1975. She retired after 32 years from the Washtenaw County Road Commission. After retiring, Vi drove truck for 3 years with her husband, Doug. She loved camping at Six Lakes, fishing, playing with her grandchildren, and spending time with her husband.
On May 20, 1992, she married Leon Wheeler and he preceded her in death on July 24, 1999. On July 19, 2003, she married Douglas L. Sherman, and he survives. Other survivors include her father, Chuck Schauer; six children, Brian (Christina) Leland of Jackson, Tina (Steve) Cubberly of Jackson, Cindy (David) Ahrens of Chelsea, Jed (Diana) Sherman of Ithaca, Jennifer Earl of Stanton, Sabrina (Earl) Kirk of Alma; a brother, Leonard Schauer of Chelsea; a sister, Linda (Patrick) Engel of Dexter; brother-in-law, Robert E. (Sharon) Sherman; sisters-in-law, Terri (Lyle) Voigt, Laureen Bobzein; 20 grandchildren, Meghan, Doug, Courtney, Josh, Chris, Earl Jr., Stephanie, Hannah, Thad, BayLee, Ellie, Quint, Isabella, Moryssa, Kylie, Mya, Amanda, David, Xantra, Ethan; 9 great-grandchildren, Dawson, Aurora, October, Brynley, Elizabeth, Madilynn, Ava, Angela, Jason; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a sister, Sharon Smith, her mother, Charlotte Schauer, a son-in-law, Larry Earl, a step-son, Douglas Thad Sherman, her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Francis and Vesta Jean Sherman.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, April 24, 11:00 am at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea, with Rev. Daniel Pezzica officiating. The family will receive friends Tuesday, April 23, 1-4 and 6-9 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, and at the church before the funeral from 10-11 am. Burial will take place at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to The Vasculitis Foundation.
Richard Emil Kuelske
of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Flint, Saginaw, and Rochester Hills
Age 87, died Wednesday, April 17, 2024, under the care of Arbor Hospice.
He was born March 5, 1937, in Saginaw, Michigan, the son of Emil August and Catherine “Elizabeth” (Gross) Kuelske.
Richard attended Jordan Elementary and Christ Lutheran Schools in Saginaw, and then graduated from Arthur Hill High School in 1955. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from General Motors Institute (now Kettering). Richard retired in 2001, after 45 years with General Motors working in Saginaw and Flint, and then Detroit and Warren, where he was promoted to manage power plants across the country.
He was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Rochester before moving to Chelsea, and then Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea since 2011. Richard belonged to Jaycees and was on the County Commission for Saginaw County. Richard enjoyed photography, and had a wedding photography business. He also enjoyed bike riding, fishing, hunting, playing basketball, and woodworking.
On November 2, 1957, Richard married Esther E. Cummings, and she preceded him in death on Dec. 10, 2018. He is survived by his daughters, Barbara Rubin of WA, Kathy McVeigh of TN, Jeannine (Kevin) Canze of Rochester Hills, and Andi (John) Philippe of Chelsea; 8 grandchildren, Ethan Canze, Jessica Rubin, Bradley Rubin, Brenna Knowles, Aidan McVeigh, Alana McVeigh, Yves Philippe, and Indigo Philippe; great-granddaughter, Elsie, and one more on the way; brothers, Kenneth (Diane) Kuelske, Emil (Lori) Kuelske; and sister, Norma Delucia. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, John Kuelske; and brother-in-law, Gary Delucia.
Funeral services will be held Monday, April 22, 2024, 2:00 p.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea, with Rev. Daniel Pezzica officiating. A reception will follow at the Chelsea Depot. The family will receive friends Noon – 2:00 p.m. before the funeral. Burial will be at Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Saginaw, Michigan.
Memorial contributions may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1515 S. Main St., Chelsea, MI 48118.
Kathleen “Kitty” Koch
of Chelsea, Michigan
Age 78, went to be with the Lord Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at Chelsea Hospital. She was born June 30, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Gaylord J. And Mildred Amy (Haan) Waun.
Kitty graduated from Parochial High School in Detroit. She moved to Chelsea in 1976. Kitty was a Bus Driver for the Chelsea School District for many years, and then drove for High Point School. After retiring, Kitty provided respite care for the handicapped and traveled extensively with Gary. She was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Chelsea, and loved spending time with her family and friends.
Kitty married Gary Koch on August 30, 1997. He preceded her in death on December 16, 2020. She is survived by her sons, Todd Hamel of Chelsea, Robert Hamel of Chelsea; daughter, Laurie (Troy) Schiller of Chelsea; step-sons, Kevin (Sharon) Koch of Ann Arbor, Jason Koch; step-daughters, Jennifer (Doug) Groves of Grass Lake, and Julie (Riley) Holtz of Adrian; and nine grandchildren, Kyle, Cody, and Chad Schiller, Nicholas Baltzell and Lorelai Houk, Ryan and Alyssa Groves, Emmalee Koch, William Holtz, and another on the way; and sister, Diane Dillard. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; and nine siblings.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, April 17, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, 3050 S. Fletcher Rd., Chelsea, MI 48118, with Pastor Kurt Hutchens officiating. Following a luncheon at the church, burial will be at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends Sunday, April 14, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, and on Wednesday, before the service from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church.
Shirley Ann Muir
Shirley Ann Muir passed away on April 10, 2024 at her home in Chelsea, Michigan.
She was born in Ann Arbor on April 6, 1941, the first of five children born to Leona (Allen) Mayzes and Charles Mayzes. Her brothers Richard and Frank preceded her in death. Her brothers Charles and Tim survive.
Her first marriage did not last, but it produced her beloved daughters Mary and Linda. Mary provided her grandchildren Kathryn and Jonathan and her great grandchildren Rayen and Hendricks. Linda provided her grandchildren Ashley and Makenzie.
She was married to Harold (Hank) Muir from October 25, 1986 until her death.
There will be no memorial service.
Alice Catherine Walz
Chelsea, Michigan
Age 95, died Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at University Living in Ann Arbor.
She was born June 6, 1928 in Dexter, Michigan, the daughter of J. Arthur and Hannah (Dewell) Lovell.
Alice graduated Valedictorian from Dexter High School in 1946, then attended Michigan State Normal College earning her bachelor’s degree in Special Education for deaf and hard of hearing. She spent 10 years teaching in Kalamazoo and Jackson. Alice then worked for her husband Bob at his Marathon Oil distribution company.
She was active in St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in Chelsea. Alice was a member of the Eastern Star. She enjoyed crossword puzzles.
On July 5, 1960, she married Robert “Bob” Allen Walz, and he preceded her in death on February 3, 2019. She is survived by her daughter, Janet (David Gesswein) Walz of Bethesda, MD; along with several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Dorothy (Harold) Stein, Jean (Gordon) Da Costa; and brother John (Ellen) Lovell.
A memorial service will be held Friday, April 19, 2024 at 10:00 am at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Chaplain John Warnshuis officiating. A private burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea, Michigan. The family will receive friends from 9 to 10am before the funeral.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Arbor Hospice or the Chelsea Area Fire Authority.
Edward A. Stankevich
of Chelsea, Michigan
Died Sunday, March 31, 2024, at his home in Chelsea. He was born October 10, 1947, in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Vincent Edward and Renee Louise (Lauthier) Stankevich.
Ed went to Emerson Elementary-Middle School in northwest Detroit, then to Redford High School also in Detroit. After high school, he served for the U.S. Navy for 5+ years. After his service he went to Oakland Community College for four years, then to Central Michigan University for two years.
On April 29, 1976, Ed married Deborah Sue Petro in Ann Arbor. He then earned his bachelor’s degree in Geology after four years at the University of Michigan. Ed told jokes and stories for much of his life. He worked for Digital Equipment Corporation for five years, then U of M Hospital for 24 years. While he was in the Radiology department, he was the Hall Monitor and brought many smiles. Dialysis brought a medical retirement in 2004, that started a 19-year fight with medical problems. Finally, the problems from all the comorbidities became too much.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughters, Sara (Andrei) Rusea of Plymouth, and Beth Stankevich of Oakland, California; and his grandchildren, Sebastian Rusea and Viviana Rusea. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A visitation will be held Thursday, April 4, 2024, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
Memorial contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan.
Beatrice May (Baker) Fraker
Jackson, MI
Beatrice “Bea” Fraker, age 91, passed away Monday, March 25, 2024 at Legacy Assisted Living in Jackson.
She was born July 26, 1932 in Coleman, Michigan to Carl and Rhuey (Alberts) Baker. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.
Bea married Marvin Fraker on August 3, 1957 who she was married to for 63 years. She is survived by their four sons and their wives: James (Marcela)-Oceanside, CA., Gerald (Bobbie)-Roanoke VA, Donald (MaryJane)-Grand Rapids MI, and Daniel (Janet)-Manitowoc WI. Eight grandchildren: Tanya, Joel, Pamela, Kimberly, David, Sarah, Amy and Elliot. Six great grandchildren: Payton, Cali, Brent, Elizabeth, Tomas and Gabriel. Several nieces, nephews’ cousins and friends.
Bea graduated from Coleman High School in 1950 and St. Mary’s School of Nursing in Saginaw MI, in 1953. She was a participant in the Nurses Health Study at Harvard Medical School. She was active in her church-Southwest Church of the Nazarene in Gregory, MI, she taught Sunday School, was on the Board of Stewards, was missionary president and treasurer for many years.
She was awarded the Queen of the District & Distinguished Service Award from the Nazarene Eastern Michigan District Missionary Society and the Doris Dicky Award.
Highlights of her life were her family, especially her grandchildren, great grandchildren and serving her Lord.
Funeral services will be Monday, April 1, 11:00 am at Southwest Church of the Nazarene, 14555 Holmes Rd, Gregory, MI, with Rev. Jeff Crowder officiating. The family will receive friends from 10-11 am at the church. Following a luncheon at the church, burial will be at Washtenong Memorial Park in Ann Arbor.
In lieu of flowers, make donations to Southwest Church of the Nazarene Missionary Society in Gregory MI.
Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.
Kenneth Rice
Of Chelsea, Michigan
Age 82, died Sunday, March 24, 2024 at Trinity Health in Ypsilanti, Michigan. He was born July 9, 1941 in Detroit, MI, the son of Harold R. and Mildred M. (Kidel) Rice.
After graduating high school, Kenneth attended the Center for Creative Studies. When he was young, he enjoyed racing cars, and later got involved with various car clubs, including: a Jaguar club, Rolls Royce club, and a Camaro club. Ken later opened a custom cabinet shop in Ann Arbor called “Cabinets by Kenneth”.
He worked for GM in Romulus for many years. After his retirement, he traveled extensively in his RV. Ken was very active at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, and also loved the Chelsea Senior Center. He was a quiet, and reserved man, but could also be very humorous.
Ken is survived by his son, Dean (Jessica) Rice of Plymouth; daughter, Justine Myers of Farmington; and his sisters Barb (John) Phillips, Fran Rice.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday, April 1, 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, with the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:00 – 11:00 at the church.
Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.
William “Bill” Doyle Chandler
Chelsea, Michigan
Age 95, died Friday, March 22, 2024, at his home in Sliver Maples of Chelsea with his daughters by his side. He was born August 6, 1928, in Akron, Ohio, the son of Hervey D. and Lois W. (Wood) Chandler.
Bill served during the Korean War in the United States Air Force, as a 1 Lt. (Class of 49-C) He loved flying and flew C 52 (Cargo Transport) planes between the US, Japan and Korea. He was discharged from the Air Force in 1952 and followed his brother to Michigan State College where he met his wife, Marilyn Rice. They were married in 1953 in East Lansing, MI. In 1954, they moved to Chelsea where they raised 3 daughters.
Bill was part-owner and manager for the Detroit Abrasives Company, an abrasive reclaiming business that his father-in-law had started. He sold the business in 1968 and returned to school to become a teacher. He taught for a couple years at Milan High School, then was invited to come to Chelsea High School to establish and operate the Work-Study and Co-op Programs. He also taught business education and business law classes.
Bill was very active in the Chelsea Community. He served as a Trustee for the Congregational Church, was elected and served on the Chelsea Village Council, was appointed to the Chelsea Village Planning Commission, served on the Chelsea United Way; helped establish the Chelsea Help Line (now 211), served on the McKune Memorial Library Board, the Mill Creek Research Council (for over 30 years). He was a charter member of the Chelsea Co-op Nursery School. Bill received the 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce for his dedication to serving the City of Chelsea.
He loved trains and also served on The Chelsea Depot Board Association for over 20 years. Bill was the Recipient of the 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award from The Chelsea Depot Board of Directors.
Bill was an avid swimmer at the Chelsea Wellness Center a hobby that he thoroughly missed when he had to stop two years ago. He enjoyed woodworking, photography, and puttering around in the yard. He loved spending time with his family, camping in their AirStream, trips to Colorado to visit his brother and later his daughter Mary Beth, canoeing with his daughters and their friends, spending time in Florida in the winters, and spending time on Clear Lake sailing, boating and relaxing. He and Marilyn also enjoyed traveling with the Nomads Club visiting various places around the world.
Bill is survived by two daughters Cindy (Richard) Westfall of Rochester, NY, Carolyn (Nick) Roopas of Ann Arbor, five grandchildren, Alyssa (Jason) Roopas-Houle, Emily, Alex and Evan Roopas, Kathryn (Patrick) Westgrove; and two great-grandchildren, Adelaide Rose and Ryan Westgrove. He was preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn, his daughter, Mary Beth Chandler, brother, John Chandler, and infant sister, Marjorie Chandler.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 30, 2024, 1:00 pm at Silver Maples of Chelsea, with Rev. Jeff Crowder officiating. The family will receive friends before the service from Noon-1:00. A private burial will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea.
Memorial contributions may be made to Barn Sanctuary, 20179 McKernan Dr., Chelsea, MI 48118.
Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.
Thomas Joseph McGaw, Jr.
of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Punta Gorda, Florida
Age 94, passed away Wednesday, March 20, 2024, after a brief illness.
He was born May 9, 1929 in Norwood, Ohio, the son of Thomas Joseph McGaw and Dorcas Elizabeth (Ballard) McGaw.
Thomas (Tom) and his six siblings grew up in Norwood. It was there that he met his wife of nearly 76 years, Phyllis. They were married on November 10, 1947 and raised their three children in Chelsea, Michigan and they survive. Son Thomas (Hazel) McGaw III of Grass Lake; daughters Janice (Larry) Gaken of Chelsea, and Patricia (Brad) McGibney of Temperance as well as six grandchildren Erin Knott, Evan (Ann) Chiumino-Knott, Adam (Marina) Knott, Thomas McGaw IV, Catherine (Kelly) Richmond, Michael McGibney; six great-grandchildren Alexis, Alivia, Helen, Lauren, Seamus, and Philip; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Phyllis, six siblings, and grandson Philip.
Tom was a veteran and studied mechanical engineering at the University of Cincinnati. He completed an 8,000-hour machine tool apprenticeship through Cincinnati Milacron, where he went on to work in their Detroit office for 17 years as a sales and serviceman, with Ford Motor Company being his primary account. In 1964, Tom and his family moved to Chelsea, Michigan where he began working for Chelsea Grinding Company, which he purchased in 1975.
In 1965, Tom began taking flying lessons, obtained his pilot’s license and was eventually instrumented rated. As a private pilot, he owned three different airplanes before eventually giving them up in favor of boats, which he enjoyed up and down the Florida coastline.
Tom and Phyllis built and enjoyed a cottage for several years on Indian Lake at the Nazarene Campground in Vicksburg, Michigan. In their retirement years in Florida, he and Phyllis enjoyed boating, fishing and hosting family and friends. Prior to retiring, Tom served as the Sunday School Superintendent at the Church of the Nazarene in Jackson, Michigan, and was on the Village of Chelsea’s Planning Commission.
A funeral service will be held Saturday, March 23, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at the Chelsea Retirement Community Chapel, with Rev. Jeff Crowder officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea, Michigan. The family will receive friends Saturday, at 10:00 a.m. until the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association 25200 Telegraph Rd Suite 100 Southfield, Michigan 48033.
Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
William Carl Rosentreter
of Indianapolis, Indiana, formerly of Chelsea, Michigan
Age 60, died Monday, February 26, 2024, at the Community Hospital East in Indianapolis, Indiana.
He was born January 4, 1964, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of John and Irla M. (Scripter) Rosentreter.
Will was a maintenance worker at Hillside Terrace in Ann Arbor and Indiana.
Will graduated from Chelsea High School in 1982. He enjoyed online gaming and loved debating. Will was a great friend who looked out for people.
Will is survived by his brother, John Rosentreter of Chelsea, his “sister,” Michelle Dye of Adrian; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Daniel Rosentreter and Robert Rosentreter.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 23, 2024, 2:00 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Pastor Christy Shaw officiating. The family will receive friends before the service from 1 – 2 p.m. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Community MD Anderson Cancer Center – North, 7979 N. Shadeland Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46250, or to a cancer or diabetes organization of your choice.
Bobbie Jeffers Ralph
formerly of Norman, Oklahoma
Died February 21, 2024, in her apartment at Chelsea Retirement Community in Chelsea, Michigan. She was 98.
Bobbie was born in Pineville, Missouri in 1925. She was the only daughter, with two older brothers, Edward (d.) and Joe (d.), and one younger brother in her family. The family lived in several southwest Missouri towns before she first attended Drury University in Springfield, Missouri, for one year. She then took a teaching appointment in a two-room school for a year, to help support her family.
She resumed her studies at Drury for a second year before transferring to Oklahoma State University where she completed her bachelor’s degree in music. There she met Damon Ralph (d.) whom she married in 1949. The couple had three children, daughters Alice and Nancy, and son Gary.
As the children grew, Bobbie continued playing piano and organ for church services, singing and directing young choirs. When the family moved to Norman, Oklahoma, she resumed classroom teaching in grade schools. She spent summers and evenings studying for a master’s degree and, ultimately, received her Doctor of Music Education degree from Oklahoma University in 1970. These achievements led to an appointment at the University of Central Oklahoma as a professor of music.
Upon retirement, Bobbie traveled extensively and developed new interests in Tai Chi, Yoga and writing. In 2013, she moved, with her grand piano, to Chelsea, Michigan, near her daughter Alice.
A vibrant and generous spirit, a talented musician and mother of three, Bobbie was fearless in her observations, loved a good laugh and had a bold fashion sense. All who knew her loved her smile. She sparkled.
She will be remembered for her enjoyment of life, her spontaneity, her deep understanding of music, and her appreciation of beauty. She was remarkable in her ability to play piano and in the quality of her soprano singing voice well into her nineties. Bobbie had a rich inner life, yet she was able to be the life of the party; dancing solo was both a joy and a reflection of her personality.
Bobbie is survived by her children, her brother Hugh, his wife Dorothy and their daughter Margaret, and many nieces and nephews across the country.
In lieu of flowers, donations to a secular non-profit of your choice are encouraged.
Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
Gary Lee Bice
of Waterloo, MI
Age 79, died unexpectedly Saturday, March 2, 2024 at his home in Waterloo. He was born February 8, 1945 in Cullman, Alabama, the son of Wilburn and Sarah (Giles) Bice.
Gary attended high school in Lincoln Park, and then was drafted into the US Army, serving from 1965 to 1967. After returning from the Army, they moved to Waterloo where they raised their children. Gary owned American International Rental Car agency until 1991. He worked as a real estate appraiser after that. He loved being on the water, and was an avid Lions fan.
On Feb. 4, 1967, he married Diane Lawrence, and she survives. Other survivors include three children, Michael Bice of Waterloo, Jennifer (Brian) Bohnsack of Perrysburg, OH; Erica (Scott) Outhwaite of Waterloo; 14 grandchildren, Michael, Megan, Logan, Gavin, Luke, Jude, Sarah, Milan, Blake, Olivia, Savanna, Dylan, Justin, Amanda; 6 great-grandchildren, Lilly, Kai, Laurissa, Leo, Ella, Ian; his siblings, Ray (Sue) Bice, Vicky (Tim) Baynes, Jan (Gary) Toporek, Tammi (John) Scott, Tony (Courtney) Byers; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a son, Doug Becker in 2021, and a brother Joe.
A public viewing will be held at Cole Funeral Chapel Wednesday, March 6, from 2-4 & 6-8 pm. A graveside service will be held Saturday, March 9, at Noon, at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Waterloo.
Memorial contributions may be made to Isaiah117house.com (please put “in memory of Gary” in the comment box).
Bethel Ann White
of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Plymouth
Age 92, died Thursday, February 29, 2024, at Chelsea Hospital. She was born July 3, 1931, in Garden City, Michigan, the daughter of Guy William and Alma (Steinhauer) White, Sr.
Bethel graduated from Fordson High School in Dearborn. She worked at Williams Department Store in Garden City, and in a nursing home in Plymouth. She was a member of the Plymouth Church of the Nazarene and the Chelsea Church of the Nazarene. Bethel never drove anywhere; she walked and was very independent.
Bethel is survived by her nieces, Marcia White of Chelsea, and Deborah Mohl of Morganton, North Carolina; her great-niece, Shana Fisher; great-nephew, Kevin Radcliffe; and great-great-nephews, Trevor Kipfmiller, Christopher and Justin Mohl, Jack and Blake Radcliffe, and Sophia and Corrine Fisher. Bethel was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Guy White, Jr.; sister, Ruth Peabody; and niece, Pam Radcliffe.
A graveside service will be held at Riverside Cemetery in Plymouth, Michigan at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea Church of the Nazarene, P.O. Box 389, Chelsea, MI 48118. Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
Frederick C. “Fred” Petsch
of Chelsea, Michigan
Age 86, died Sunday, March 3, 2024, at his home. He was born December 15, 1937, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Adolph Ronald and Ruth Dolly (Leffler) Petsch.
Fred worked at Hilltop Plumbing when he was young as well as in landscaping. He worked 22 years as a Superintendent for Public Works in Chelsea, and retired from Johnson Control in 2001. Fred enjoyed crafts, woodworking, and masonry work. He built furniture and was a Master Clockmaker, repairing cuckoo clocks and grandfather clocks.
On February 16, 1957, he married Georgette E. “Marie” Cavadas, and she preceded him in death on December 28, 2016. Survivors include his children, Denise Jordane of Tecumseh, Dennis (Linda) Petsch of Stockbridge, Dale Petsch of Ann Arbor, Dede Wampler of Adrian; 9 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and one on the way, three brothers, Roy of Ann Arbor, David of Brooklyn, and Ellsworth of Chelsea; one sister, Marilyn Denhart of Grass Lake; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by four brothers, Adolph Jr., Donald, William, and Jimmy; one sister, Mildred Fish; and a daughter, Deanna Petsch.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, March 7, 2024, 4:00 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Pastor Tom Humphreys officiating. The family will receive friends on Thursday, from 1:00-4:00 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family.
Jean Kay (Begole) Satterthwaite
of Chelsea, Michigan
Age 83, died Thursday, February 29, 2024, at Legacy Assisted Living.
She was born April 13, 1940, in Saline, Michigan, the daughter of Newland Henry and Neola Catherine (Bachman) Begole.
Jean graduated from Saline High School, class of ’58. She received a one year secretarial certificate from Central Michigan University. She worked as a secretary at U of M in Ann Arbor, Fortune Industries in Chelsea, and 22 years at the Washtenaw Intermediate School in Ann Arbor. Jean was a member of the First Congregational Church in Chelsea. She loved garage sales, Taco Bell, word searches, casinos, and baking pretzels with Ron.
On October 6, 1962, she married Ronald Satterthwaite and he survives. Other survivors include three sons, Rodney (Julia) Satterthwaite of Palo Alto, California, Curtis (Emily) Satterthwaite of Howard City, and Lance (Amy) Satterthwaite of Grass Lake; sister, Barb Roble of Plymouth; many good friends; niece, Erin Crisp; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Jean adored her grandchildren, Hunter, Jordan, Henry, Liam, Maggie, Micah, Jonah, and Ryli. She was preceded in death by her parents; twin sister, Joan Rendel; brothers-in-law, Raymond Roble and Harland Rendel; and grandson, Richie.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, March 5, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Rev. Dr. Barbara Edema officiating. Burial will follow at Vermont Cemetery, Chelsea, Michigan. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Monday, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. and Tuesday, from 10-11 a.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Meals on Wheels, with checks made to Chelsea Senior Center, 512 Washington St., Chelsea, MI 48118, Heartland Hospice, 1300 Eisenhower Place, Ste. 1390, Ann Arbor, MI 48108, or to For the Boys – CO Awareness https://fortheboysdkr.com.
Larry Grant Foster
of Chelsea, Michigan
Age 82, passed away on February 25, 2024, at St. Joseph Hospital in Ypsilanti, Michigan, with his wife and son by his side.
He was born in Marion, Ohio, on December 28, 1941, to Elizabeth (Stubs Dyer Stewart) and Harlan Foster.
Larry is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Rotha Foster, of Chelsea, Michigan; his son, Stephen Foster, and daughter-in-law, Heather Sayer; grandchildren, Alex Foster, and Samantha Foster, all residing in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Wilma (Charles “Chip”) Winans of Chelsea, Michigan, and Sharon Fitzpatrick of Albuquerque, New Mexico; brother-in-law, Paul (Helen) Fitzpatrick of Munith, Michigan; and nephews, Adam Winans of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Robert Dieter of Tecumseh, Michigan.
Surviving siblings include Ronald Wren of Del Ray, Florida, Jan (Joyce) Wren of Ocala, Florida, and Elizabeth (Nick) Foster Kopsolias of Clinton, Michigan. Larry was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Robert Wren, and Harold “Bill” Wren.
Larry dedicated many years of his life to a successful career in Executive Management with Polymer Development and Processing, retiring in 2001. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work and dedication.
In accordance with Larry’s wishes, there will be no public services.
Larry Grant Foster will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. May he rest in peace.
Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice. Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, Michigan.
Elaine Marie (Killey) Winton passed peacefully into our good Lord’s hands on February 23, 2024.
She was 83 years old. She loved deeply, and she was truly loved.
Elaine’s smiling presence was legendary. It lit up anyone who paused to notice, and it drew them back to her just to see it again. And if you were lucky, that smile would melt into an indelible ‘I love you’, which were the enduring words she shared openly to everyone near her in her final days.
Her love was imbued by calm, abiding, and graceful presence. She loved nurturing and giving tours of her beautiful gardens. She made the best Christmas sugar cookies on the planet. She delighted in traveling all over the world with her loving husband, and she savored boat cruising as the ultimate first mate.
And above all, she loved our Creator very deeply and unfailingly. She is now smiling and dancing in heaven, making a place for anyone to join her.
Elaine is survived by her loving husband of 62 years, W. Patrick Winton, her son Brian (Vicki) Winton, her son Craig (Susan) Winton, her daughter Deanna (Steve) Hoffman, and 7 grandchildren, Patrick, Jared, Wade, Mackenzie, Zachary, Audrey (Hoffman), and Vivianna (Hoffman).
All are welcome at a celebration of her life on Friday, April 19, 2024, at Huron River Methodist Church, 7643 Huron River Drive, Dexter, MI 48130. 10:00am Visiting / Open House, 11:00am Service, Lunch after the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to any of the following:
- Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Michigan Chapter https://www.alz.org/gmc
- UMRC Porter Hills Foundation https://foundation.mybrio.org/donate-online/
- Huron River Methodist Church https://www.huronrivermethodist.org/donate
An interment will be planned at a later date in the Upper Peninsula’s Riverside Cemetery in Ontonagon, MI.
Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, Michigan
O give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; For His lovingkindness endures forever.
1 Chronicles 16:34 AMP
Helena Marie Robinovitz
of Chelsea and more recently of Glenview, IL
Age 79, died peacefully and surrounded by loved ones on February 23rd, 2024.
A lover of wildlife, nature, gardening, and animals, she had recently moved from her home in the countryside in Michigan to be near family. As was her typical fashion, she had made several new and dear friends almost instantly.
Helena was born in Riverside, CA, but spent most of her childhood in the Detroit metro region. She is survived by her brother Joel (Anne) Hodgson and her dear cousins Polly and Mary Ann.
On February 6, 1976, she married her beloved husband, Stewart Henry Robinovitz, and he preceded her in death. Children Isaac (Annemarie) and Miriam (Victor) survive.
Helena was active in her many communities, and she had a gift of bringing people together. For several years she was an educator at the Waterloo Recreation Center and later contributed to talent development in Chelsea Public Schools. She was the director of religious school for several years in Temple Beth Israel of Jackson, MI, and later was an active volunteer at the Back Door Food Pantry and Alpha House of Ann Arbor, MI.
She also volunteered with Jackson Audubon Society, Haehnle Sanctuary, and the Waterloo Farm Museum. She was a recent congregant of Makom Solel Lakeside of Highland Park, IL, and was previously a member at Temple Beth Emeth and Congregation Beth Israel, both of Ann Arbor, MI.
Helena was a beloved friend to many. She was a devoted and loving wife and mother. Her light, strength, and enthusiasm for life will be treasured always.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, February 27, 2024, 1:00 pm at Congregation Beth Israel, 2000 Washtenaw Ave, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Helena will be buried beside her husband, Stewart, in Arborcrest Memorial Park of Ann Arbor, Michigan. Rabbi Nadav Caine of Congregation Beth Israel will officiate. Shiva will be observed at the home of Harvey and Deborah Juster in Ann Arbor, MI.
Donations in her memory can be made to Alpha House, Back Door Food Pantry, Congregation Beth Israel of Ann Arbor, Chelsea Cancer Center, Unity Hospice, and Haehnle Sanctuary. No flowers please.
Mary Katherine “Kack” Powers
Age 72, passed away on February 6, 2024, in St. Petersburg, Florida.
She was born on August 11, 1951, in Darby, PA, to Mary and Robert Powers.
Kack, as she preferred to be called, was a beloved daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother.
Kathy studied fashion merchandising at Michigan State University and enjoyed a successful career as a purchasing agent for Jordan Marsh in Miami, FL, and Winkleman’s in Ann Arbor and Detroit. She had a keen eye for fashion and creativity. She was known for her impeccable taste.
Kathy’s passion for communication, planning and organization was evident in the many ways she was willing to listen, take charge, and help others.
Kathy was a principled person and had a strong sense of duty to the obligations of her family and career. She was also very compassionate and outspoken on social issues.
She is survived by her loving daughter, Stacy Delmar (Christopher), and her cherished grandson, Fitz. Kathy is also survived by her siblings: Robert (Jane), Mike (Mary), Dave (Deborah), Janice, Jim, Judy, Patrick, and Phil (Carla). She held a special place in the hearts of her family and will be deeply missed by all.
A memorial service will be held in Chelsea, MI, in the summer of 2024 to honor and celebrate Kathy’s life. The details of the service will be announced closer to the date.
Mary Katherine Powers was a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Dianne Kelley-Sanchez
of Chelsea, Michigan
Age 76, died Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at the Chelsea Retirement Community in Towsley Village. She was born May 22, 1947, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Bill and Eva (Smith) Kelley.
Dianne attended the University of Michigan where she earned her Masters Degree in Education. She taught for 30+ years as an Elementary Teacher in the Ann Arbor School District, mostly at Logan Elementary and High Point School. She loved all animals, particularly horses and cats, hiking, and adventure. Dianne also enjoyed crafts, basket making, painting, quilting, and traveling. She was a member of the Chelsea First United Methodist Church.
Dianne is survived by her sons, Kevin (Jae Gerhart) Sanchez of Manchester, and Joshua Sanchez of Butte, Montana; her brother, Bill Kelley of Harbor Beach; her sisters, Patricia Bancroft of Tecumseh, and Nancy Chew of Discovery Bay, California; grandchildren, Huemac and Kyrian; five nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; her cats Toby and Merlin; and her dog, Penny. She was preceded in death by her parents. Dianne loved her family very much.
A memorial service will be held Friday, February 23, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea. The family will receive friends from 10 – 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place at Green Cemetery in Howell.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Huron Valley, www.hshv.org or Starry Skies Equine Rescue and Sanctuary, www.starryskiesequinerescueandsanctuary.com.
Robert Glenn Dunlap
of Munith, Michigan
Age 59, died unexpectedly on Friday, February 16, 2024.
Bob is survived by his wife, Amy, who he lovingly referred to as his “little one”. He and Amy had been inseparable since 1982 when they were officially “going together”, and married June 22, 1985.
Bob is also survived by his two children, Jessica Lynae (Cody Wayne) Deladurantaye of Stockbridge; Nathan Andrew Dunlap of Kalamazoo; two amazing grandchildren, Aiden Layne and Melody Lynn; sister-in-law, Kathy Lynn and Charles Douglas Mullins; brother-in-law William Randal and Maureen Sword; and many nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father and mother-in-law, William and Norma Sword; and the people who treated him like a son, Allyn and Lois Thurston. His family meant everything to him.
Bob worked briefly at Guardian Alarm, followed by NSK, where he was awarded a steamfitter/pipefitter apprenticeship. Prior to NSK closing, Bob moved to Ford Visteon before moving to the University of Michigan Hospital for over 12 years.
He also obtained his plumbing license and worked at the U of M campus, where he has worked ever since. His work buddies were like a second family to him, along with several salt water tank customers, especially Mike Kinnaird, Phil Duncan, and Jeff Gallatin.
Bob was an incredibly loving and devoted husband, father, and papaw. His generosity was second to none, and his work ethic, high morals, and love of God were evident to all who met or knew him.
A memorial service will be held Thursday, February 22, 4:00 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, MI, with Rev. Jeff Crowder officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family.
Larry Ledebur (1940-2024)
Larry Ledebur was a quiet man with a strong sense of community and a passion for righting social injustice. Educated as an economist, his professional strength was thought leadership in policies and strategies for regional economic collaboration. However, his greatest personal strength was his ability to recognize potential in people – students, young colleagues, grandchildren – and then help them nurture that potential. He was a beloved friend, grandfather, father, husband, colleague, educator, and mentor. He approached life with kindness, humor, and generosity.
Larry was born in Big Spring, Texas, and was raised in Midland and San Antonio. He graduated from Austin College, in Sherman, Texas, and earned a master’s and doctorate in Economics from Florida State University. He began his career as Assistant Professor at Denison University. In 1970 he became Dean of Students.
Throughout his forty-year career he applied analytical tools to address urban and economic development issues. His research sought solutions for discord and inequality, and promoted equity. The formative events of the 60s and 70s inspired articles and books with his colleague and mentor, Bill Henderson: Economic Disparity: Problems and Strategies for Black America and Urban Economics: Processes and Problems.
He had a significant impact on national urban policy as Visiting Scholar for the U.S. Economic Development Association’s Office of Economic Research, and as Senior Economist and Associate Director of Research of President Carter’s White House Conference on Balanced National Growth and Economic Development. Strategies for regional collaboration and development evolved from his research. His work emphasized regional cooperation as an effective economic development strategy – a concept unheard of at that time.
His work at The Urban Institute as a Senior Research Associate and Director of its Economic Development Program continued to address national issues through entrepreneurial research and guiding state and local governments to implement effective economic development programs. During this time as a consultant he met Bill Barnes, Research Director at the National League of Cities. For three decades, they co-authored groundbreaking research on regional economies and about the interdependency of the welfare of cities and suburbs. Their contributions catalyzed the vision of the United States as a national system of economic regions.
As professor and Director of the Center for Urban Studies at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan and as professor and Director of The Urban Center at Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio. Larry was a strong proponent of building partnerships and collaborations among public, private, and nonprofit community sectors, and was frequently a key speaker – locally, regionally, and nationally.
At Cleveland State University’s Urban Center from 1995 until his retirement in 2010, Larry and colleagues researched and wrote prolifically, with a special focus on the adaptive reuse of sacred landmarks. Larry’s efforts to develop human capital within the Levin College and Urban Center had enduring impact. He had an uncanny ability to identify undergraduate and Ph.D. students with promise and help them achieve their goals. Many now hold leadership roles in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
He served as Editor of Economic Development Quarterly (EDQ) for 10 years overseeing a substantial transition of the journal from a manual publication to an online format.
After his retirement he and his wife, Susan, moved to Chelsea, Michigan. He enjoyed visiting his children and grandchildren, fishing, and touring baseball fields with his brothers-in-law. He served his local community by chairing the Chelsea Planning Commission.
Larry died peacefully at home on February 5, 2024. He is survived by his wife, Susan Whitelaw, his daughters, Kathryn Ledebur, of Cochabamba, Bolivia, and Lara Sprenger (Steven), of Islamorada, Florida, and his stepchildren, Guy Downs (Shonnie Becker) of Ypsilanti, Michigan, Shelley Brenner (David) of Chelsea and by eight grandchildren: Elisa Meruvia, Nicholas Radley, Gabriel Downs, Christopher Radley, Sebastian Reinicke, Mia Brenner, Eva Brenner, and Amelia Downs. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clinton Willard Ledebur and Dencey Alice Noxon Ledebur, and by his sister, Jill Ledebur Mills.
The family will hold a memorial later. Memorial contributions can be sent to Planned Parenthood of America, the League of Women Voters, and the Scholarship Fund at the Silver Maples Retirement Community of Chelsea, Michigan.
Sally Morley Dickinson, a resident of Chelsea, Michigan, passed away surrounded by family on February 1, 2024 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ypsilanti.
Born in Saginaw, Michigan on April 30, 1939, Sally was the oldest daughter of Simon and Wilda (Simonton) Fisher. Sally grew up in Bay City and graduated from Bay City Central High School. After graduation, she attended Antioch College in Yellow Springs, Ohio before transferring to Wayne State University to complete her bachelor’s degree in business administration.
After college, Sally worked as an event planner for the McGregor Memorial Conference Center at Wayne State before deciding to stay at home to raise her sons, Scott and Tim. In later years, Sally worked in fund development for Saginaw General Hospital and Saginaw Valley State University. She also converted her love for cooking, sewing, and knitting into a couple of small businesses in Saginaw.
Sally was an avid quilter who created numerous wall hangings and quilts for her family and for charitable causes. She was also a tremendous cook and enjoyed preparing healthy meals and teaching others how to cook. More than anything, she loved her family and family gatherings, especially at Christmas. Her family will miss her dearly.
Sally was preceded in death by her first husband, Scott and Tim’s father, Leonard See, Jr.; her second husband, Edward (Ted) Morley, Jr.; and her parents, Simon and Wilda Fisher.
Sally is survived by her beloved husband, Fred Dickinson, of Chelsea; her sisters, Barbara Fisher of Bay City and Nancy Fisher of Madison, Wisconsin; her sons Scott (Deborah) See of Houghton and Timothy (Katherine) See of Ann Arbor; niece, Amy Miles of Bay City; and her grandchildren, Russell, Christine, Sam, Ellen, Cameron, Lauren and Cassidy.
The family will hold a private memorial at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Sally’s name to the Chelsea Senior Center or the Chelsea District Library.
Suzanne Evelyn Tracy
of Manchester, Michigan
Age 84, passed away Saturday, February 3, 2024. She was born June 30, 1939, in Lambertville, Michigan, the daughter of Harry Frederick and Anna Margaret (Kwiatkowski) Hetzel.
Suzanne graduated from Bedford High School, in Lambertville. Suzanne worked for Automatic Sprinkler and Chrysler Corporation. She was a member of the Rug Hookers and Red Hatters. She had a passion for sewing and baking. Suzanne was a member at St. Mary Catholic Church of Manchester for 40 years. She then attended St. Mary Catholic Church of Chelsea, for 15 years.
In 1961, she married Clifford Albert Tracy, he has passed (2018). Survivors include her sons, Clifford Anthony (Hope) Tracy of Ann Arbor, and Patrick Andrew (Lesley) Tracy of Ann Arbor; her grandchildren, Victoria Alese Tracy, Clifford Ashton Tracy, Bernice Louise Tracy, Jakob Donald Tracy, and her bother D.P. Hetzel of Taylor. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her brothers, R.L. Hetzel and H.W. Hetzel.
A Memorial Mass will be held Thursday, February 8, 2024, 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Roman Catholic Church in Manchester. The family will receive friends from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place at St. Mary Cemetery in Manchester this summer.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Roman Catholic Church of Manchester.
Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.
Barbara Wrobleski
Of Grass Lake, MI
Age 75, died peacefully on Sunday, February 4, 2024 at Chelsea Hospital.
She was born March 10, 1948 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of David Owen and Lela (Kroh) Hughes.
Barb worked as a legal secretary for Plunkett & Clooney Law Firm in Detroit, and for the University of Michigan. She attended Trinity Lutheran Church in Jackson, and was active in their quilting group. Barb was President of the Women’s Guild, and was a Stephen Minister. She was always positive and was very social. Barb loved deeply and family was everything to her.
On July 10, 1970, she married Nicholas Wrobleski in Trenton, MI, and he survives. She is also survived by her daughter, Kim (Kelley) Munn of Saline; her son, Kyle (Tracy) Wrobleski of Lincoln Park; a sister, Pam Dillon of CT; 5 grandchildren, Matthew, Courtney and Amanda Wrobleski, Ellie and Grace Munn; and 3 great-grandchildren, Shilo, Shelbie, and Penelope.
A memorial service will be held Friday, February 9, 2024, at 11 am at Trinity Lutheran Church, Jackson, with Rev. Derek Riddle officiating. Burial will take place at Michigan Memorial Park, Flat Rock.
Memorial contributions may be made to Cascade Animal Shelter in Jackson. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.
David (Dave) Staebler
Age 86, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 2, 2024, at the Chelsea Retirement Community.
He was born June 9, 1937, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of William and Lenora (Staebler) Staebler.
Dave spent his early years working with horses and cattle, which led him to a career on ranches in several states. Upon returning to Michigan, he worked at Halliburton, Chrysler Proving Grounds. Finally, he retired from the University of Michigan after 22 years in various roles such as trucking, campus courier, and working directly with the President. He was a member of the First Congregational Church of Chelsea.
Dave was a passionate individual who loved horses and cattle. He would often enjoy a cup of coffee and share some wild and crazy stories about his past, such as when he rode his horse into the V.I. in Grass Lake! Dave was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it.
He would have achieved 40 years of sobriety in June and knew the importance of AA meetings and mentorship. Dave was devoted to helping others in the program.
On Aug. 26, 1960, he married Judy Kay Crain in Ann Arbor, and she preceded him in death on February 20, 2014. Survivors include two sons, Adon (Laura) of Bonita Springs, FL, and Jeffrey (Robyn) of Munith; two sisters, Kathrine (Paul) Frisinger and MaryAnn (Rick) Rickerman; six grandchildren, Britt, Kali, Elsa, Andy, Garrett, and Mikayla; three great-grandchildren, Oliver, Elsie Kay and Carson; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Paul Staebler, a granddaughter Gabrielle, and a brother-in-law Paul Frisinger.
A public visitation will be held at Cole Funeral Chapel on Tue, February 6th, from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM. A private memorial for family members only will follow.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Washtenaw Alano Club in honor of David Staebler.
Donations/memorial contributions can be made to:
Washtenaw Alano Club
995 N. Maple Rd
Ann Arbor, MI 48103
*Memo line to include “David/Dave Staebler”
Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.
Carol S. Mills
of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Plymouth
A woman of immense love, wisdom, and compassion left this world on January 28, 2024, after 101 years of spreading her love and joy of life to everyone around her.
She was born November 11, 1922, in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Albe and Ida Christine (Scholberg) Salmonson.
Carol graduated from Dearborn High School in 1940, acquiring a thirst for knowledge and learning that lead her to obtain a Bachelor of Science degree in Library Science in 1946 from Michigan State Normal College (now EMU) and a Master’s Degree in Reading at age 60!!
She worked as a Switchboard operator during WWII to pay for college, and after graduation worked as a librarian in Port Huron High School for 1 year. She was a librarian at Plymouth High Schools and the University of Michigan, and taught English as a Second Language as part of a Community Education Program.
She loved to travel with family and friends and was able to travel around the world including visiting 40 states here in the United States. She was a member of the Methodist Church in Dixboro, Plymouth, and Chelsea over the course of her life.
Hebrews 13:2 “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares” was displayed at the entrance to all of her homes and was lived out by her actions throughout her life. A framed saying: “When we lose someone we love, we must learn not to live without them, but to live with the love they left behind” was displayed in her apartment as a reminder to all of us who loved her so dearly.
On August 23, 1947, Carol married Hoyt D. Mills in Dearborn, Michigan. He preceded her in death on May 8, 2003. She is survived by sons, Don (Sue) Mills of Madison, Mississippi, and Paul (Maribeth) Mills of Altoona, Pennsylvania; daughters, Maribeth (CJ Mantz) Mills of Afton, Virginia, Jane Mills of Palm Springs, California, and Susan (Michael) Gabler of San Jose, California; son-in-law, Tom Fahlstrom of Ypsilanti; sister, Sally Warner of Traverse City; 11 grandchildren; and 8 great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Ann Fahlstrom; and brother, Keith Salmonson.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024, 1:00 pm at the Chelsea Retirement Chapel, with Rev. Dr. Julie J. Kilmer officiating. The burial will be at Cadillac Memorial Gardens West, Westland, Michigan.
Memorial contributions may be made to the UMRC Foundation.
Walter Friedrich Hahn
Chelsea, Michigan
Walter was born March 17, 1937, in Stuttgart, Germany to Emma (Seyfert) and Fritz Hahn.
His life’s journey came to an end on January 28th, 2024, as a result of a years’ long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
As a young man, Walter studied to be a mechanic, earning a master mechanic certificate from Porsche in Germany. Seeking adventure, he secured a job in Thun, Switzerland, where he lived for five years. Craving more adventure, applied for a job at a German auto dealer in Kenya in the mid-1960s. Due to civil war there, his plans changed. He arranged a job at a dealership in Flint, Michigan with the help of a friend, planning to spend a year experiencing America. In 1985, he became a proud US citizen.
Many will remember him as the owner of Hahn’s Service Center in Ann Arbor. He never lost his love of his native country. He and his wife, Linda, made many trips to Germany, as well as many trips to his beloved DeTour Village, Michigan.
Walt happily served many years as secretary of the Schwaben Verein in Ann Arbor. He was also an avid fan of Michigan Football and German Soccer. He thwarted Linda’s requests to get Internet in the home in the ‘90s until she mentioned she could get reports of the Stuttgart Kicker’s games minutes after they ended. He was also a very spiritual man and spent time reading religious themed books. He converted to Catholicism at the age of 52.
He is survived by his wife, Linda, his son, Michael Hahn of Adrian, his son, Christopher (Cathy) Hahn of Cheboygan, his two granddaughters, Christina and Gabriella Hahn of Cheboygan, a stepson, Christopher (Melody) Montgomery, as well his beloved Labradors, Abby and Mandy.
Special thanks to Katie Garvey and Lisa Klinkman and the staff at the Ease the Day program and Chat to Heal program.
A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, February 2nd, 11 a.m. at St. Mary Church in Chelsea, the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner presiding, with visitation at the church from 10 – 11 a.m. that morning. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to St. Mary Church, Chelsea or to the Ease the Day Program at the Chelsea Senior Center for the benefit of dementia patients and their caregivers.
Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.
G. Paul Frisinger II
Paul passed away Tuesday, Jan 23 at his home surrounded by family.
He was born in Ann Arbor, the son of George Paul and Eloise Schrier Frisinger. He married Kathrine (Staebler) in 1967 and she survives along with his sons Scott of Chelsea and Eric (Stacey) of Brighton; three grandchildren, Jackson, Luke and Ashley; and one brother Roger Frisinger of Albany, Oregon.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother David, sister Sherry Lawton, and daughter-in-law Mary Berridge Frisinger.
Paul graduated from Chelsea High School and Michigan State University. He owned Frisinger Realty and was named Realtor of the Year by the Ann Arbor Board of Realtors in 2003 retiring in 2008.
He worked as the Lima Township Zoning Administrator for 7 years. Paul was active in his community serving as VP St Paul UCC, Saint Louis Center Citizens Advisory Board, Lima Township Planning Commission, Ann Arbor Board of Realtors, Chelsea Chamber of Commerce. Paul was President of – Chelsea United Way, Chelsea Community Fair, Chelsea Downtown Development Authority, and the Chelsea Kiwanis Club.
Paul was a loving husband, father, grandfather and brother. In his spare time, he was a farmer and also enjoyed gardening and woodworking projects for his friends and family. He was an avid “car guy” and was a member of the Livingston A and Spartan Horn Model A club and the NOMO Mini Club. Paul shared his love of cars and woodworking with his grandsons – teaching them to drive around the back field and how to use power tools while still in grade school.
Ultimately, Paul would want to be remembered as a good person who was always there for his family and friends.
A memorial service will be held Saturday Feb 3 at 3:00 pm at St Paul United Church of Christ, with visitation from 2:00-3:00 pm. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions to St. Louis Center, Arbor Hospice, or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.
Mildred “Micki” Crawford
Of Saline, Michigan,formerly of Freedom Township, Ypsilanti, Flushing, Ann Arbor
Micki was a member of Salem Lutheran Church where she was active with the Ladies’ Missionary Society and Salem Historical Committee. She was also a member of the Chelsea Senior Citizens. She retired from the Washtenaw County Clerk’s office after 36 years. Micki and Parky enjoyed traveling, being a vendor at the Ann Arbor Art Fair, spending time with and spoiling the grandchildren. She was an avid gardener and loved feeding the wildlife.
On September 12, 1947, she married Bernard J. “Parky” Crawford at Salem Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor, MI and he preceded her in death on September 14, 2008. Survivors include a daughter, Donna (Daniel) Schmidt of Ann Arbor; a son-in-law, Michael Thornton of Milan; three grandchildren, Jason (Sheena) Schmidt, Joe (Sophia) Schmidt, Kresten (Breanna) Sakstrup; four great-grandchildren, Aedan, Emma, Tara, and Kol; and other extended family. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Judy Thornton; and a sister and brother-in-law, Arlene and Arnold Naebeck.
Funeral services will be held Friday, January 26, 11:00 am at Salem Evangelical Lutheran Church, 7474 Scio Church Rd, Ann Arbor, with Pastor Paul Jansen and Staff Minister Jason Petoskey officiating. Burial will follow at Salem Lutheran Cemetery. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Thursday from 2 – 4 pm & 6 – 8 pm, and at the church Friday, from 10 – 11 am.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Salem Lutheran Church.
Darcy Stielstra
Our beloved Darcy Stielstra, 77, passed away on January 15th, 2024, surrounded by close family.
He loved the rivers and forests of Michigan and the mountains and waves of Alaska, especially Kodiak Island, where he watched the sun come up over his boat for twenty-eight years.
Darcy lives on in his wife, Marilyn Kreta; his daughter, Megan; his sons Tim, Greg, and Tom; and his grandchildren Caleb, Olive, Nico, Elijah, and Isabel. He counted himself lucky to be part of two large, close-knit families, and cherished his brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews, cousins and dear friends.
Darcy was born on February 25, 1946, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, to Peter and Marian Stielstra, and grew up in Hartford, Michigan, with his siblings Patricia, Mike, Sally, Chuck, and Scott. After graduating from Central Michigan University, he served his country as an officer in Germany and Vietnam before settling back in Michigan to raise his daughter, who remembers many weekends flipping over canoes on the Shiawassee River.
A lifelong educator, he taught sixth grade while earning a Master’s in public school administration and served for over a decade as the principal of Beach Middle School in Chelsea, a community he dearly loved.
After his daughter left for college, he packed up his truck and drove across the country to follow a longtime dream of living in Alaska. A hunter and fisherman since childhood, he scaled mountains for goats and tracked moose on the tundra with his brother and nephews, and built a 28-foot fishing boat with his friend Tom Emerson, all while continuing to support kids and their teachers as the principal of Peterson Elementary School.
After arriving on Kodiak, he fell in love with Marilyn and her sons, and their two unique families turned into one. After twelve years on Kodiak, he said that his life on the island was the longest he’d lived anywhere—he’d found his home—and he was a dedicated member of the community as an educator, fisherman, and storyteller (his performance as Daddy Warbucks in Annie earned the headline: “Kodiak Man Shaves 40-Year Moustache for Art”).
He took on his battle with pancreatic cancer the same way he took on his life: fiercely and fully, with deep thought and reflection. The first present he gave his kids—the boys as teenagers, and Megan at age five—was a copy of Walden, and he strived to follow his favorite words of Thoreau: “Live in each season as it passes; breathe the air, drink the drink, taste the fruit, and resign yourself to the influence of each.”
Breathe the air today.
Watch the sun come up.
A memorial service will take place at 4 pm AKST on January 24th at St. James the Fisherman Episcopal Church, 421 Thorsheim Street, Kodiak.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Island Trails Network, which Darcy hiked three mornings a week. You could also consider a donation to your local public library or community arts organization in his honor.
Ruth Mary Ann Kummer
of Adrian
Age 93, passed away peacefully at Gaslight Village on Saturday, January 6, 2024.
She was born in Wyandotte, Michigan on July 27, 1930, to the late Archibald J. and Anna L. (Copp) Lambrix.
Ruth was a congregation member of the Adrian Dominican Sisters, as Sister Ann Clare, from 1947 until 1970. She later married Dr. Joseph T. Kummer, and he preceded her in death on June 27, 1997.
Visitation for Ruth will be held on Monday, January 15, 2024, at St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church in Saline, from 9:30 – 10:30 AM. Funeral Mass will follow at 10:30 AM, with Father John Linden officiating. Interment will follow at a later date in Our Lady of Hope Cemetery in Brownstown, Michigan.
Online condolences to the family may be offered at www.andersonfuneralservices.com.
Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be given to the Adrian Dominican Sisters in the name of Ruth Kummer (Sister Ann Clare).
The Anderson-Marry Funeral Home in Adrian is handling arrangements.
Robert Douglas Race
of Chelsea, Michigan
Passed away at 93 on January 3, 2024 at his home in Chelsea, Michigan.
He was husband to Thressa Race for over 70 years, a mentor to many, and at the center of accomplished family of sons, daughters, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. His family, friends and colleagues will miss Doug’s dry sense of humor and sage advice.
Accomplishments
Doug mentored thousands of students and athletes in his career at Jackson Community College (JCC) (1966-92), Farmington High School (1954-65), and Saline High School (1953-54). He loved football both as a player and a coach. Doug was an offensive guard on Grand Rapids Central’s 1947 state championship football team and later played for Grand Rapids Community College. He coached football in Saline and later was the head coach in Farmington before moving to Jackson to coach community college track, teach, and be the academic advisor for athletes. While in Jackson, he assisted Dave Driscoll at Jackson Parkside High School the offensive line coach and team scout.
Doug was head track coach in Farmington where he gained a state-wide notoriety as a pole vaulting and field-event coach. His Farmington team included Rex Cawley, 1964 Tokyo Olympic gold medalist in the 400M hurdles. The JCC Jets track team routinely finished in the top 10 community college teams in the U.S.
As a high school and community college athlete, he was known for his leg speed. Doug took up distance running in his 50s and became a national masters class runner and an aspiration for his daughter Carrie Schupbach (University of Illinois) and granddaughter Kristina Olsen (University of Alabama, Birmingham), both national-class distance runners.
Doug strived to improve his ability to help others. He graduated from University of Michigan in 1953 and went on the earn master’s degrees from University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University. He developed a well-known reading lab at JCC where students gained critical reading and communications skills, geared to their academic and professional goals. Here, Professor Race was a life coach and academic advisor to many student athletes and others, assisting them in selecting and applying for universities matching their professional aspirations.
Later Years
Doug retired from Jackson Community College in 1992. Thressa and Doug enjoyed living at Browns Lake, spending winters in Florida, and visiting grandchildren in California, Illinois, and Michigan. His 10 grandchildren could count on him to help with homework, for advice, and stories.
In 2018, Doug and Thressa moved to Silver Maples retirement community in Chelsea where they continued an active and engaging life into their 90s enjoying exchanging stories with other UM grads. At 79, Doug took up watercolors and sold and presented his work at juried shows in Jackson and Chelsea.
Family
Robert Douglas Race was born February 20, 1930 in East Grand Rapids. He was preceded in death by his parents Buryl and Hazel (Neely) Race, and stepfather Peter Buursma; brother Dick Race and sister Susan Race. Doug is survived by his wife of 70 years, Thressa Rea Race (Switous); children Bruce Race (Vera) of Houston, TX, Tim Race (Maria) of Ann Arbor, Carrie Schupbach (Dave) of Jackson, and Meg Martin of Jackson; grandchildren Ryan Race (Danny Fleischer) of Oakland, CA, Grant Race of Richmond, CA, Kristina Olsen (Jurgen Runschke) of Traverse City, Hanna Boyd (Mike) of Leetsdale, PA, Sydney Martin of Kalamazoo, Erin Martin of Grand Rapids, Ian Race of Evanston, IL, and Julian Race (Jamie Gordon) of St. Louis, MO, and step grandchildren Austin Van Der Karr of Elmhurst, IL and Mitzi Van Der Karr of, Elmhurst, IL; great-grandchildren Aiden Fleischer of Oakland, CA, and August Boyd of Leetsdale, PA.
A private celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
