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Obituaries 2013


Smith,-Gertrude-webGertrude E. Smith
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 77, passed away at her home on Friday, Dec. 27, 2013. She was born on Oct. 13, 1936 in Ann Arbor, Michigan the daughter of William and Amalie (Wilkens) Wente.

Gert had lived around North Lake area since 1972, coming from Ann Arbor. She enjoyed playing golf, long walks, gardening, and the out of doors. She also loved traveling with her family and her sister. For nearly 40 years she and her husband ran and operated Pinnacle Engineering in Manchester.

On Nov. 2, 1953 she married M. Eugene (Gene) Smith, and he survives. Also surviving are one son Brad (Julie) Smith of Manchester, brothers-in law and sisters-in law: Robert Conlin of Pinckney, Gary (Pat) Smith, and Diane (Ken) Harrison, four grandchildren: Steve and Tim Henes, and Cory and Trevor Smith, also one great-grandchild Michael Steve Henes, and many loving nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Leslie Figg, and her sister, Hildegarde Conlin.

Funeral services will be Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2013 at 11 a.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Rev. Anna M. Moon officiating. Burial will follow at North Lake Cemetery in Dexter Township. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Arbor Hospice, the North Lake United Methodist Church or the Charity of One’s Choice.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

Steve Kiss
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 96, passed away on Saturday, Dec. 21, 2013 at the Chelsea Retirement Community.

He was born on May 23, 1917 in Detroit, MI, the son of Aaron Kiss and Barbara (Solyum). He had moved to the area from Florida and was a member of the American Hungarian Reformed Church in Allen Park. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Surviving is his son, Stephen A. Kiss of Chelsea. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Julia Sheffield, and two wives, Mary Barta and Margaret Fazekas.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 27, 2013, at the American Hungarian Reformed Church, 9901 Allen Road, Allen Park, MI 48101. Visitation will be at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will take place at South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth, FL. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the church.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Elkins,-Virginia-webVirginia M. Elkins
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 92, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 22, 2013 at Legacy Assisted Living in Jackson.

She was born on Oct. 31, 1921 in Sylvan Township, Michigan, the daughter of Clarence and Anna (Peterson) Lehman. Virginia always made everyone smile and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of her life.

She enjoyed gardening flowers and vegetables, and canning and freezing. Surviving is her son, Gary (Jill) Seitz of Grass Lake; her grandchildren, Randy (Sandy) Seitz of Chelsea and David (Emily) Seitz of Chelsea; her great-grandchildren, Jake and Ava; and her grand-dog, Jack. She was preceded in death by two husbands, William Henry Seitz in 1956 and George Elkins in 1994.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 27, 2013, at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Anthony Dickerson officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Covenant Church in Chelsea or Great Lakes Hospice. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

Joyce Salyer
Whitmore Lake, Michigan, formerly of Chelsea and Tecumseh

Age 82, died Thursday, Dec. 12, 2013 in Ann Arbor. She was born June 30, 1931 in Royalton, Kentucky, the daughter of Wiley & Fadie (Bailey) Fletcher.

Joyce was a member of the Church of Christ in Chelsea and Stockbridge. She loved to garden, paint, cook, sew, and help her husband build houses.

On July 3, 1948, she married Lawrence G. Salyer in Salyersville, KY, and he survives. Other survivors include her two daughters, Linda (Carl) Foster of Fenton, Patricia (Kevin) DeVoy of Whitmore Lake; 3 grandchildren, Tammy (David III) Goodman, Alissa (Scott) Stewart, and Thomas Lawrence DeVoy; 3 great-grandchildren, Karalyn Goodman, David Goodman IV, and Caleb Stewart. She was preceded in death by 5 brothers and 3 sisters.

Funeral services will be held Monday, Dec. 16, 2 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Thomas Lawrence DeVoy officiating. A graveside prayer will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea. The family received friends at the funeral home Sunday 1-5 p.m.

Koch,-Lorna-webLorna Annabell Koch
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 92, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 12, 2013 at home. She was born on March 29, 1921 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Tibor and Grace (Popp) Kiss. On April 23, 1949 she married Leon C. Koch in Chelsea and he preceded her in death on Nov. 28, 2003.

Lorna had lived in the area since she was 11 years old and her family had the Kiss farm at M-52 and Werkner Road. She was a charter member of the Covenant Church in Chelsea and had worked for Federal Screw for 10 years. She enjoyed sewing, stained glass, and gardening flowers, having been recognized by the Ann Arbor News as “best gardener.” She also liked to make sock monkeys, every Christmas helping to fill a pick-up truck at Palmer Ford with stuffed animals for Toys-for-Tots, and she absolutely loved the claw machine game at Polly’s.

Surviving are her children: Diane Kyte of Chelsea, Chuck (Linda) Koch of Chelsea, Leonard (Janet) Koch of Chelsea, and Cheryl (Dave) Muck of Adrian; 9 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; her brothers, Richard Kiss of Chelsea and Adrian (Fredia) Kiss of Jackson; and also several nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Grace Gardner and Rose Dorer, two brothers, Robert Kiss and an infant Lanny, and four nephews.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2013, at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Anthony Dickerson officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Covenant Church or the Arbor Hospice Foundation. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Aldrich,-Ella-2Ella M. Aldrich
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 84, a long-time resident of Chelsea, died Monday, Dec. 9, 2013 at Arbor Hospice. She was born May 1, 1929, the daughter of Russell & Ethel (Dean) VanAmberg.

She lived in the same home since 1957, moving from the Fowlerville/Howell area. Ella was a member of Chelsea First United Methodist Church, and a Charter Member of the Chelsea Community Hospital Auxiliary.

On June 17, 1954, she married William S. Aldrich in Angola, IN, and he preceded her in death on July 8, 2008. Survivors include a daughter, Stephanie (Gregory) Osborne of Chelsea; a son, Donald Aldrich of Centennial, CO; 3 grandchildren, James Osborne, William S. Aldrich III, Shawnda Aldrich; a sister-in-law, Dorothy “Dee” Rivara of Sedona, AZ; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a son, William S. Aldrich, Jr. on Nov. 6, 2010; a sister, Eva Palmerton; four brothers, Howard, Leo “Red”, Ernie, & Bob VanAmberg.

Funeral services will be held Monday, Dec. 16, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Rev. Tom Macaulay officiating. Burial will follow at Lakeview Cemetery in Howell. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Sunday noon-4 & 5-7 p.m. and Monday 10-11 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Arbor Hospice or Chelsea Community Hospital (for the new Cancer Center).

Buss,-LeRoy2LeRoy Clarence Buss
Chelsea, MI

Age 80, died Monday, Dec. 9, 2013 at his home. He was born Oct. 4, 1933 in Chelsea, the son of Clarence & Laura (Feldkamp) Buss.

LeRoy was confirmed at St. John United Church of Christ on Waters Road, and attended Zion Lutheran Church. He was a dairy farmer all of his life. LeRoy was a member of the Farm Bureau and the Tri-County Sportsmen. He enjoyed square dancing and karaoke singing.

On April 7, 1956, he married Dolores Jones, and she survives. Other survivors include a son, Darrin (Brenda) Buss of Chelsea; a daughter, Jeannie (Lewis) Gilbert of Chelsea; two sisters, Marion (Ray) Stockinger of Tecumseh and Doris (Ray) Alber of Jackson; a brother, Richard Buss; 4 grandchildren, Samantha & Steven Buss, Mark & Amy Gilbert; a great-grandson, Parker Early; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Gladys Hines; a nephew, Mike Alber; and brother-in-law, Vergil Hines.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Dec. 14, 1 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea with Pastors Stanley Eckermann and John Morris officiating. Burial will take place at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Freedom Township. The family will receive friends on Friday, Dec. 13 from 1-4 & 6-9 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel. Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church or to his family.

Swank,-DavidDavid William Swank
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 64, died Saturday, Dec. 7, 2013 in Chelsea, Michigan. He was born June 3, 1949 in Oskaloosa, Iowa, the son of Marion & Florence (Echoff) Swank.

He enjoyed gardening and was a charter member of the Chelsea Community Garden. And he delighted in his grandchildren.

On Aug. 14, 1969, he married Carol Witzenburg in Pella, Iowa, and she survives. Other survivors include a son, Michael (Robyn) Swank; two daughters, Shari (Wally) Donovan, and Monica Swank; two brothers, Bob and Ken; two sisters, Marianne O’Rourke and Bonita Hetherington; 4 grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Phillip.

A memorial service will be held Friday, Dec. 13, 2013, at 11 a.m. at Sharon United Methodist Church, Manchester, with Pastor Peter Harris officiating. The family will receive friends at 10 a.m.

Condolences may be sent to 148 Van Buren Apt. 1, Chelsea, MI 48118. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Bragalone,-Michael-webMichael “Mike” Bragalone
Age 66, passed away Dec. 5, 2013 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Michael was born the son of Italo and Marilyn (Whiteley) Bragalone on Dec. 6, 1946. On Oct. 30, 1982, he married Annette (Kamysz), who survives him.

Michael was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting pheasant with his beloved English Springer Spaniels, and cherished his time on “The Farm.” An alum of the University of Michigan, he attained multiple degrees in Engineering, as well as an MBA. He worked his full career for, and retired from, the Ford Motor Company. He managed the design team that invented the Keyless Entry FOB.

Michael is fondly remembered by the Chelsea School System as one of their “go to” substitute teachers. Michael had an unwavering support for all U of M athletics, especially the Wolverine football and basketball teams. His love of athletics could also be seen in his passion and commitment to the Golden Turkey basketball and softball teams.

Most of all he was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. In addition to his wife and parents, Michael is survived by his children, Thomas (Beth Ann) Bragalone of South Rockwood, MI, Paul (Katharina) Bragalone of Ann Arbor, MI, Joshua Bragalone of Maryland, Martin Bragalone of Tokyo, Japan, Andrea (Aaron) Rose of Ypsilanti, MI, Christina (Sean) Anderson of Seoul, South Korea, and his eight grandchildren. Also surviving are his siblings Susan Storch of Scottsdale, AZ, Amy (John) Towne, of Carlisle, PA, Andrew (Diedra) Bragalone of Kirtland, OH, and Cristina Bragalone of Chicago, IL, five nieces and nephews, as well as his sister-in-law Peggy Kamysz of Hammond, IN. He was preceded in death by his brother-in-law Robert Storch and nephew Andy Towne.

The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, in Chelsea, MI, on Thursday, Dec. 19, 2013 from 4-8 p.m. A private memorial service will take place at a later date.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the St. Louis Center (Chelsea, MI) or the Humane Society of Huron Valley (Ann Arbor, MI).

Lori-KnightKnight, Lori Richards
Dexter, MI

Age 53, died Sunday, Dec. 8, 2013 at her home. She was born Aug. 30, 1960 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Thomas & Sharon (Doletzky) Abrass.

Lori was a member of Faith Lutheran church. She loved animals, reading, gardening, bird watching and horses.
Survivors include her mother and father, her grandmother, June Doletzky, her sisters, Maria Gonzalez of Buneos Aires, Argentina and Andrea Abrass of Sarasota, FL; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother, James Richards, and her grandfather, Earl Doletzky.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Dec. 14, 1 p.m. at Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church, 9575 N Territorial Rd, Dexter, MI with Rev. Mark Porinsky officiating. Family will receive friends from 12-1 p.m. A burial will take place at Serenity Gardens Cemetery in Largo, Florida. Memorial contributions may be made to the family. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, Michigan.

parsons-raymondRaymond “Ray” Parsons
of the Dexter/Chelsea Area, Michigan

Age 87, passed away on Friday, Dec. 6, 2013 at the Arbor Hospice Residence in Ann Arbor. He was born on April 11, 1926, in Chelsea, Michigan, the son of Daniel A. and Amelia B. (Hanselmann) Parsons.

Ray was a member of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Chelsea, where he married Rita M. Gross on Aug. 27, 1949.

He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II from 1944 to 1946 in the Pacific Theater on the USS Marshall DD-676. Ray had worked at Industrial Tectonics Inc. as a grinder and repaired machines, and had over 15 years of service at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home. He was also a member of the American Legion Herbert J. McKune Post 31, and was an avid sportsman, enjoying fishing, hunting, and archery.

Surviving is his wife; children, Jeffrey A. Parsons of Pelham, Alabama, and Margery K. (Kenneth) Schiller of Dexter/Chelsea; grandchildren: Jared (Emily) Parsons, Jason Parsons, Nicole (Joel) Sprow, Brooke (Joshua) Spackey, Valerie (Andrew) Christofferson, Brian Schiller, great-grandsons Tyler, Ethan; and brother Donald (Mary) Parsons of Grass Lake, and Mesa, AZ, and sister-in-law Jutta Gross of Clayton and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and six siblings: Olive Salzgeber, Jesse Parsons, Lois Kolander, Alton Parsons, Elsie Mallette, and Doris Mann.

A Funeral Service took place on Dec. 9, 2013 at St. Paul United Church of Christ, Chelsea, with Pastor Jim Coyl officiating. Burial followed at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Paul’s United Church of Christ or the Arbor Hospice Foundation, or the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

The family received friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Florence Ludtke
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 92, died Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2013 surrounded by her family at Arbor Hospice. She was born July 14, 1921 in Chelsea, MI , the daughter of Vincent & Mary (Klepski) Koneski.

In 1953, she married Levi Ludtke, and he preceded her in death on Jan. 27, 1975. Survivors include two daughters, Jackie (Howard Flintoft) Ludtke of Chelsea and LeAnn Gustaitis of Gregory; two grandchildren, Joshua Gustaitis and Stephanie Gustaitis; and one great-granddaughter, Laurynn Kittle. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Mary Anne Ludtke.

No public services will be held. Burial will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea. Memorial contributions may be made to SPCA or the National Down Syndrome Society. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Parks, Richard webRichard H. Parks
of Munith, Michigan

Age 51, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2013 at his home. He was born on Sept. 14, 1962 in Jackson, Michigan, the son of Richard A. Parks and Freda D. (Riddle) Musolf.

On March 5, 1988, he married Carrie L. Hoover in Chelsea and she survives. Rich had lived in the area all of his life and was a dairy farmer, receiving several awards in the dairy industry. He was also a member of the National Farmers Association and enjoyed coaching varsity softball, cooking, hunting, and fishing.

In addition to his wife, surviving are three children: Justin (Christina) Parks, Colby Parks, and Taylor Parks, all of Munith; four siblings: Patricia (Gary) Clark of Lakeview, Beverly Clark of Lakeview, Barbara Mosher (Mike Sutliff) of Lansing, and Toni (Carson) Patrick of Munith; his step-mother, Mary Parks of Munith and step-father Carl Musolf of Munith; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws, Roger and Vera Hoover, and his sister-in-law, Robin Delaney.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2013, at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Craig Goodlock officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Munith.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to an educational fund for the Parks children. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

DeBusk, Gerald2Gerald DeBusk
Lincoln Park, MI

Age 65, died Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2013 with family at his side. He was born May 25, 1948 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Leo & Edith DeBusk.

Jerry graduated from Lincoln Park High School. He went on to the US Air Force, becoming a Sergeant. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, and spending time with Laurie at his cabin at Cranberry Lake.

On Dec. 15, 1989, he married Laurie Miller, and she survives. Other survivors include two grandchildren, Joe and Morgan DeBusk; two sisters, Jackie Szatan and Renee (Steve) Georgoudakis both of Lincoln Park: a brother, Bob (Darr) of Cranberry Lake; his Aunt Dee Dee Martineau; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by two sons, Daniel and Gary DeBusk.

Burial will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Waterloo, Michigan. Memorial contributions may be made to Arbor Hospice. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Reinhardt, Malcolm webMalcolm John Reinhardt
of Gregory, Michigan

Age 69, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2013 at the Regency at Bluffs Park facility in Ann Arbor, MI.

He was born on Dec. 6, 1943 in Stockbridge, MI, the son of Alvin and Rosemary (Bollinger) Reinhardt. Malcolm was a simple man and enjoyed the simple things in life. He also loved working the land.

He is survived by his brother Kenneth (Karen) Reinhardt of Gregory, nephew Jerry (Carol) Reinhardt of Colorado, niece Brigette Reinhardt of Grass Lake, grand-nieces and grand-nephew Gabriella Landini, Cadence Reinhardt, and Chace Reinhardt, uncle Paul Bollinger, and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 8, 2013 at the North Lake United Methodist Church, Chelsea. The family will receive friends from 1 p.m. until the time of service. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the North Lake United Methodist Church.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Robinson, Horace webHorace Frank Robinson
Of Grass Lake

Age 96, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2013 with his wife and loving family by his side. At the time, he was under the care of the wonderful staff at the Vista Grande retirement home in Jackson.

Horace was born to Edmund and Delia Robinson on May 26, 1917 in Grass Lake on his family’s homestead. Horace’s childhood revolved around life on the farm and family travels. As a young man he was an avid swimmer, water-skier and boxer.

He graduated from Michigan State University, studying agriculture and volunteering in the cavalry unit of the ROTC. He fell head-over-heels in love and married June Floyd of Chelsea on June 2, 1946, for whom he built a family home across the road from the Centennial farm where he was raised. It has been in the family since 1852. They went on to live there for 67 years raising a family and lovingly maintaining their land, taking pleasure in mowing the ten acre yard and gardening together up until this past year.

In addition to a lifetime of farming, Horace loved to invent and build. His inventions were even utilized by the Ford Motor Company where he worked for thirty years. He was a strong leader in the community, serving as sergeant-at-arms of the Rawsonville UAW chapter and president of the Grass Lake Lion’s Club where he led in the building of their first clubhouse. He was also an active member of the Grass Lake Federated Church and co-chaired the Grass Lake PTA with his wife June, organizing fundraisers such as the annual chuck wagon barbecue.

Horace and June spent their post-retirement winters in Naples, Florida. He loved the sunshine and was an avid watercolor painter who took great inspiration from nature. He will be remembered for his creative spirit and cheery disposition – anyone who knew him could count on him having a joke on deck and a story to share.

Horace, lovingly known as ‘Papa’, is survived by his wife June and their three children: Judy Gallagher (husband Kevin), Elaine Willett (husband Bill) and Brian (wife Tina) Robinson. He is also survived by five grandchildren Kirk, Todd and Spencer Gallagher and Christina and Eric Willett and four great-grandchildren. His loss will be mourned by all who knew him, and he will live on forever in our hearts.

A celebration of his life will be held this spring. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Grass Lake Federated church in his honor. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Green-LewisLewis “Lew” Russel Green
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 92, died Thursday, Nov, 14, 2013 at his home. He was born Dec. 8, 1920 in Dundee, MI, the son of Amos & Mary (Symington) Green.

Lew graduated from Ypsilanti High School in 1936, and from Adrian College in 1944. He attended the University of Chicago and Wayne State University. He continued his education taking graduate courses at Michigan State University and Eastern Michigan University.

After graduation from high school at the age of 15, he worked as shipping clerk for the Michigan Ladder Company in Ypsilanti. When his parents bought a farm in New York State he worked on adjacent farms to help support his family.
He did factory work in Adrian, MI while working on his undergraduate degree at Adrian College. He was a Methodist minister in Ohio, southern Michigan, and served locally at Salem Grove Methodist Church in Grass Lake, MI. He also worked at Arizona State University-Tempe as staff advisor to campus religious groups.

Lew was a tireless volunteer for the Chelsea District Library when forming the district and the new library building.
He loved the outdoors and had an inquisitive nature. Lew found joy in sharing his discoveries in nature as a middle school science teacher. He taught in the Wayne-Westland School District and Lincoln Consolidated Schools. He retired in 1987 from the Ann Arbor Public Schools, where he taught at Bach and Clague Schools.

Lew loved to dance, sing and play golf. He enjoyed the theater and he loved to read. He enjoyed all types of music, but he especially loved to attend Ann Arbor Symphony performances, and programs sponsored by the University Musical Society. He enjoyed traveling, and after his retirement he attended Elderhostel (now called Road Scholar) programs across the United States. He also realized a goal by traveling to Australia and New Zealand. Among his favorite trips were those to Vermont to attend his grandson’s Nordic skiing and cross-country meets. He was a member of the National Education Association and Friends of the Chelsea District Library.

In addition to his wife, Mary Green, Lew is survived by daughters, Sharyl Green (Peter Lackowski) of Burlington, VT and Lou Ellyn Green of Chelsea, and daughter-in-law, Connie Green; grandson, Aaron Lackowski; and sisters Hazel Discher and Virginia Parsons; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Lew was predeceased by his son Lester; 10 of his 12 brothers and sisters; Harold, Margaret Wright, Sadie Chamberlin, Gertrude Schultz, Lawrence, Bruce, Mary Walton, Merna Green, Amos, and Ruby Klein; son-in-law William Millikin, and former spouse Jean Green.

Lew’s family will receive friends at the Comfort Inn Conference Center in Chelsea on Friday, Nov. 29, from 1-3 p.m., with a brief time of sharing at 3 p.m. Donations in Lew’s memory can be made to the Chelsea District Library, 221 S. Main St, Chelsea, MI 48118 or Arbor Hospice Foundation, 2366 Oak Valley Dr., Ann Arbor, MI 48103. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

 

Lambert-RoyRev. Roy Folsom Lambert
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Waterford

Age 92, died Monday, Nov. 11, 2013 at his home in Chelsea.

He was born May 28, 1921 in Westfield, New Jersey, the only son of Harold & Ethel (Stiles) Lambert. Rev. Lambert attended Wheaton College in Illinois and then Westminster Seminary in Philadelphia. After several years each at parishes in upstate New York and western Ohio, he served as pastor of Lakeland United Presbyterian Church in Waterford, MI for 33 years retiring in 1986.

He was active in the Presbytery of Detroit, and volunteered with the Waterford Civil Service Commission for many years. After retirement, Roy and Nancy moved to Chelsea in 1992. They spent many joyous summers at their cottage on Torch Lake (Bellaire). Roy had many interests and talents. A classically trained tenor with a beautiful voice, he sang in numerous choirs over the years. He especially enjoyed touring the western United States with the Men’s Glee Club at Wheaton College and singing in the Oakland University Chorus for many years. He passed on his love of music to his children and grandchildren. He was an avid photographer and family archivist leaving his family a wonderful visual history of the many joyous occasions shared over the years. He was a very literate man, a deep thinker and philosopher. Rev. Lambert enjoyed the fellowship and community of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Ann Arbor and the Church in the Hills in Bellaire.

On Feb. 14, 1948, he married Nancy Boggs in Willis Grove, PA, and she preceded him in death on Nov. 26, 2008. Other survivors include a son, Timothy (Debbie) Lambert of Waterford; two daughters, Sara Lambert of Hamburg Township, Nancy Jean Lambert of Greenville, NC; 5 grandchildren, Nicky Havican; Nathaniel, Kimberly and Cassandra Vachon; Marta Hortobagyi-Lambert; and 4 great-grandchildren, Skyler, Alexa, Billy, and Jedediah.

A memorial service will be held Friday, Nov. 29, 2 p.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1500 Scio Church Road, Ann Arbor, with Rev. Stephen Carl and Rev. Cathi King officiating. Burial will follow at Westminster Memorial Garden, Ann Arbor. Refreshments will be served after the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to World Vision, www.worldvision.org or Westminster Presbyterian Church, www.westpresa2.org. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

MayJohn 1John May
Whitmore Lake, MI, formerly of Southgate and Alpena

Age 93, died Monday, Nov. 11, 2013 in Whitmore Lake, Michigan. He was born June 15, 1920 in Roslin, Scotland, the son of Andrew & Alison (Hervey) May.

John served in the British Navy during WWII. He retired from Stroh’s brewery as a machinist.
He married Mary Garvie in Queenboro, England on March 21, 1942, and she preceded him in death on Sept. 6, 1999. Survivors include one son, Robert (Carol) May of Trenton; two daughters, Irene May of Chelsea, Jacqueline (Gary) Maveal of Chelsea; one brother, Bob (Bette) May; one sister, Jean Loasby; 9 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren and many nieces & nephews. John was preceded in death by a sister, Betty Fairgrieve; and a brother-in-law, Fred Loasby.

A memorial service will be held Nov. 23, 2 p.m. at Chelsea Depot, Chelsea, with Chaplain Dave Goldsmith. Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

King, Ronald webRonald Albert King
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 63, passed away on Monday, Nov. 11, 2013 at his home after a lengthy battle with bladder cancer. He was born on Sept. 5, 1950 in Flint, MI, the son of Harry and Letta (Steele) King.

Ron enjoyed golf, fishing, and spending time outdoors. He had worked for the University of Michigan as a Refrigeration AC Mechanic for 20 years, and was a member of Local 190, the Dexter American Legion, and Fraternal Order Eagles 2154, Ann Arbor. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and will be greatly missed by many.

In 2008, he married Mary Catherine (Gordon) in Las Vegas, Nevada, and she survives. Also surviving are his children: Shannon (Todd) Thompson of Swartz Creek, Dana (Chris) Young of Romulus, and step-son Patrick Vesper of Chelsea; his grandchildren: Kaylie, Scott, Reagan, and one on the way; his mother Letta King of Flint; his brother Rick King of Otisville; and his nieces and nephews: Sean (Michelle) King and Sabrina of Fenton, and Barbara (Hank) Rogers and Starlett and Michael of Grand Blanc. He was preceded in death by his father.

The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Friday, Nov. 22, 2013 from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., concluding with military honors. Interment will take place at a later date at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Arbor Hospice Foundation.

Sayer,-Robert-webRobert “Bob” Nelson Sayer
Of Chelsea

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle and friend, transitioned from his earthly journey on Nov. 9, 2013, one day after the 72nd anniversary of his marriage to Nancy Elizabeth Cox.

He was born Jan. 5, 1917, in Troy, NY, the son of Clifford Sayer and Jennie Louise Duke. Robert graduated from Chatham High School, Chatham, NY, class of 1935; and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, class of 1940, with a BS in Industrial Engineering. He worked 6 years as a machine tool designer and 18 years as a machine tool sales & engineering representative while living in Virgil, NY, where he served on the Virgil Central School Board, including several years as president. For 24 years, he was employed as the data processing manager for Columbia-Rensselaer Telephone Co. (later called Taconic Telephone Corp. and currently Fairpoint Communications) in Chatham, NY, retiring as VP in 1987.

Upon retirement, he and Nancy moved to Michigan to be closer to their daughters and their families, and has been a resident of Chelsea, MI since 1998. Some of Robert’s interests included photography, listening to classical music and attending performances of the Boston Symphony Orchestra at Tanglewood Music Center in Lenox, MA. He also enjoyed gardening, exploring religion, philosophy and alternative medicine. His greatest joy was spending time with his family. Robert is survived by his wife, Nancy; daughters Diane Sayer (Donald E. Brooks), Karen Sayer (Robert L. Smith) and Christine Sayer; grandchildren Jennie, Casey and Nathaniel Brooks; Maxwell and Charles Wesley; great grandson Soren Eugene Thurman; nieces Kathy Logan, Carol Pinto, Janora Stone, Ann Pinto and their families. He was preceded in death by his sister, Mary, and her husband, Kiah Maynard.

A memorial is being planned for the immediate family. Gifts in memory of Robert may be made to: Friends of Tanglewood, 301 Massachusetts Ave., Boston, MA 02115, 617-638-9260, www.tanglewood.org/contribute.

To view photos and leave condolences, please visit www.mitchellfuneral.com. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, MI.

Pam-WeinhagenPamela Kay Weinhagen
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Age 52, went to be with her Lord Jesus, Saturday, Nov. 9, 2013 at Arbor Hospice. She was born June 13, 1961 in Jackson, MI, the daughter of Ronald and Bonnie (Munro) O’Brien.

Pam graduated from Vandercook Lake High School in 1979, where she played basketball and volleyball. She graduated from Jackson Community College and later Spring Arbor University in 2005. Pam worked for 28 years at Dawn Food Products. On July 25, 1992 she married George L. Weinhagen. She attended Congregation Shema Yisrael in Bloomfield Hills. Pam loved her children and spent many hours talking with them on the phone, keeping in contact over social media and playing online games with them. She also loved to spoil and play with her grandchildren. She loved to worship Jesus, cook, bake, and travel, especially to the Middle East.

She is survived by her husband George of Ann Arbor; her mother Bonnie O’Brien of Vandercook Lake; her two daughters, Kristin (Kevin) Marshall of Leslie, and Katie (Chris) Thomas of Rockford, IL; her brother Rick (Sue) O’Brien of Clark Lake; her sister Sandy (Chris) Niemi of Jackson; and her two grandchildren Carley and Caitlyn Marshall. Pam was preceded in death by her father, Ronald O’Brien.

A Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, Nov. 13th at 2 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, with Rabbi Glenn Harris officiating. The family will receive friends from noon-2 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Congregation Shema Yisrael, 3600 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 or Under the Fig Tree, P.O. Box 1256, Holland, MI 49422. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Lorenz, James 2James Whitcomb Lorenz
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 76, died Friday, Nov. 8, 2013 at his home with his family. He was born May 8, 1937 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Fredrick & Gertrude (Whitcomb) Lorenz.

Jim graduated from Ann Arbor High School and Washtenaw Community College. He worked for Argus Camera, Hoover-Sperry, and KJ Law, before creating his own company, Michigan NDT Inc. Jim was a member of the Chelsea First United Methodist Church, where he taught adult Sunday School, led the youth fellowship for many years, was a Lay Speaker, and served on many committees. They also attended Christian Home Group. He loved playing bridge with his friends, sailing boats, and downhill skiing, in addition to being an official at the Chelsea Ice Skating Rink, a Boy Scout Leader, an author, and a licensed Ham Radio enthusiast.

On July 6, 1955, he married Frances Arlene Dibble at Westside United Methodist Church in Ann Arbor, and she survives. Other survivors include three children, Doug (Kim) Lorenz of Green, OH, Tammy Nelson of Tujunga, CA, Matt (Kathy) Lorenz of Grass Lake; a brother, Dwayne “Pete” (Linda) Lorenz of Tennessee; and three grandchildren, Courtney, Joseph, and Sarah Lorenz. Jim was preceded in death by his brothers, Dennis and Gary.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, Nov. 12, 11 a.m. at Chelsea First United Methodist Church, with Rev. Joy Barrett officiating. Burial will be at Washtenong Cemetery in Ann Arbor. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Monday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. and at the church Tuesday from 10-11 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea First United Methodist Church or the Michigan Parkinson’s Foundation.

Wurster-Todd-2Todd Charles Wurster
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 52, died Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2013 at his home, after a long struggle with renal failure. He was born July 3, 1961 in Detroit, the son of Ralph L. & Phyllis (Vogel) Wurster.

Todd graduated from Chelsea High School in 1979. He attended Jackson Community College, Lansing Community College, Eastern Michigan University and Specs Howard. He was a Stand-up Comedian. Todd enjoyed making models.

Survivors include his parents of Chelsea, a son, Jacob Wurster of Utah; a daughter, Sarah Wurster of Arizona; stepdaughter Jocelyn Wurster of California; a sister Cheryl of Homer; a grandson; and a niece and nephew.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel. Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan, 1169 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48108.

Brown,-Noel-photo2Noel Thomas Brown, Jr.
Of Dexter Twp., Michigan

Age 50, died on Sunday, Nov. 3, 2013. He was born on April 3, 1963 in Dearborn, Michigan, the son of Noel T. and Delores (Miller) Brown, Sr.

He had lived in the area since 2000, coming from Ypsilanti, and was the owner of Noel T. Brown Custom Homes, Inc. for 30 years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, motorcycles, and could fix anything. He was a member of the Moose Lodge of Ann Arbor and also the Homebuilders Society.

On Sept. 28, 1991, he married Melissa L. Connell in Ann Arbor and she survives. Also surviving are his mother Delores Theisen of Belleville; three daughters: Brittany Brown, Chelsea Brown, and Megan Brown, all of Dexter; and his father-in-law Bruce (Amy) Connell of Chelsea, mother-in-law Vicki (Richard) Geiss of Chelsea, and sister-in-law Cara Connell of Chelsea. He was preceded in death by his father, his step-father Leon Theisen, his grandmother Virginia (Mimi) Miller, his grandfather Charles (Papa) Miller, his aunt Virginia Sharon, and his brother-in-law Michael Connell.
A Funeral Service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 8, 2013 at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. Private burial will take place at a later date. Expressions of sympathy may be made to an educational fund for his daughters.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

Kennedy, Michael webMichael Dale Kennedy
of Manchester, Michigan

Age 61, passed away on Sunday, Nov. 3, 2013 at the Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit. He was born on May 13, 1952 in Geneva, New York, the son of Dale G. and Bette Kennedy.

Michael had lived in the area for over 30 years, coming from Garden City. On Nov. 3, 1979 he married Marikay Nolan in Dearborn, Michigan. Mike began driving truck at the age of sixteen and, in 1976, founded a trucking company with his father. He was very supportive of his employees and they became part of his family. Mike enjoyed cars, all types of music, and was an avid gardener. Most of all, “Papa” adored spending time with his grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by three children: Megan (Dave) Haight of Ypsilanti, Michael Ryan (Allison) Kennedy of White Lake, and Mac Kennedy of Manchester; three grandchildren: David Michael, Madison Marie, and Michael Dennis; his parents, Dale and Bette Kennedy of Manchester; and his brother Scott (Merrilee) Hill-Kennedy of Big Rapids.

A Gathering of Friends and Time of Remembrance will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 8, 2013 at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Karmanos Cancer Institute.

 

Pratt, Helen 2Helen Pauline (Frey) Pratt
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 88, died Friday, Nov. 1, 2013 at Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born July 3, 1925 in Caledonia Township, Michigan, the daughter of William F. and Elva Maude (Steeby) Frey.

Helen graduated from Middleville High School. She continued her education at the Butterworth Hospital School of Nursing and graduated as an R.N. in July of 1946. Helen was a nurse for her entire career as she also fulfilled her second full-time job as “Pastor’s Wife.” Retirement brought her back home to Caledonia for 17 years until her move to the Chelsea Retirement Community in 2004.

She married Rev. Ralph C. Pratt on March 21, 1948 at Leighton E.U.B. Church, and he preceded her in death on July 12, 2006.Survivors include three sons, Paul (Denise Chrysler) Pratt, Wayne (Karen) Pratt, Keith Pratt; two daughters, Margaret (Kevin) Lamiman, Gwen (Dale) Dunlap; 3 grandsons; and one sister, Ruth Frey French. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, her brother, 2 sisters, and a daughter-in-law.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Nov. 23, 1 p.m. at Chelsea Retirement Community Chapel, with Rev. Cathy Rafferty officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service. A private burial will be at Hooker Cemetery, Leighton Township, Allegan County.

Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Retirement Community.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Kreger,-Helen-2Helen Anna Kreger
of Chelsea, MI, formerly of Chicago, IL; Detroit, Royal Oak, Beverly Hills, and Ann Arbor, MI

Age 93, died Monday, Oct. 28, 2013 at Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born April 11, 1920 in Blanford, IN, the daughter of Ignatious and Benna (Vandis) Tomas.

Helen was a member of the Catholic church, though she attended the Lutheran church with her husband after their marriage. She was a homemaker and more. As a volunteer, Helen was active with the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts of America while her children participated in these programs; with the American Field Service, placing foreign exchange students in the Royal Oak Schools; and with Christ Memorial Lutheran Church. She and her husband were early advocates of dignified resolutions to end-of-life issues and active with what is now the Funeral Consumers Information Society from its founding in 1961.

She was an artist, working in watercolors as an Impressionist. As an early advocate of Modern architecture, Helen worked with Detroit-based architect Don Paul Young to design her home in Royal Oak that was built in 1958 and noteworthy for its butterfly roof and extensive use of glass. For Young – whose body of work is now being recognized for its importance to Michigan Mid-Century Modernism – this likely was one of his earliest designs to have been built.

On Aug. 4, 1945, Helen married Ralph E. Kreger in Detroit, MI and he preceded her in death on May 4, 2003. Survivors include a son Roderic L. (Betsy LaVier) Kreger of Satellite Beach, FL; a daughter Janet L. Kreger of Ann Arbor, MI; a niece and two nephews. Preceding her in death were her parents and her older half-brothers Ben and John Norris.

Helen’s ashes will be buried at Glen Eden Lutheran Memorial Park in Livonia. No memorial services are planned. Memorial contributions may be made to the Michigan Historic Preservation Network, www.mhpn.org.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Malcolm John Reinhardt
of Gregory, Michigan

Age 69, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 22, 2013 at the Regency at Bluffs Park facility in Ann Arbor, MI. He was born on Dec. 6, 1943 in Stockbridge, MI, the son of Alvin and Rosemary (Bollinger) Reinhardt.

Malcolm was a simple man and enjoyed the simple things in life. He also loved working the land. He is survived by his brother Kenneth (Karen) Reinhardt of Gregory, nephew Jerry (Carol) Reinhardt of Colorado, niece Brigette Reinhardt of Grass Lake, grand-nieces and grand-nephew Gabriella Landini, Cadence Reinhardt, and Chace Reinhardt, uncle Paul Bollinger, and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A private service and interment will take place at a later date.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

 

Budinger,-PennySandra “Penny” Louise Budinger
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 65, died Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2013 at her home in Chelsea. She was born March 28, 1948 in Elizabethton, TN, the daughter of Fred M. & Iva “Ruth” (Huskins) Lipford.

Penny graduated from Belleville High School in 1966. On Nov. 21, 1969, she married John P. Budinger, and he survives. Other survivors include her mother of Ypsilanti; two daughters, Angela (Andy) McKinley of Chelsea, Michelle Cabrera of Ypsilanti; one son, Michael (Kelly) Budinger of Avon, Ohio; a brother, Tony (Jo) Lipford, two sisters, Margaret “Pat” (Dan) Harju, Patricia (Nancy) Lipford; and 7 grandchildren, Zachary & Katelyn McKinley, Allison & Vincent Cabrera, Jack, Teddy & Joseph Budinger. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Fred Jr. & Tommie, and her father.

She was a terrific mother and grandmother. Penny loved attending their sporting and musical events. She helped care for her mother for many years. She worked at the Holiday Inn on North Campus for 30 years as a banquet supervisor. Penny enjoyed gardening, cooking and spending time with the family at the cottage.

The family will receive friends on Friday, Nov. 1 from 3-7 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with a service starting at 7 p.m. and Deacon Dick Shaneyfelt officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Arbor Hospice or St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea.

Bowerman-DelightDelight Bowerman
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 85, died Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2013 at the Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born Nov. 25, 1927 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Frank and Lillie (Sousa) Winkle.

In 1992, Delight retired from Powers Regulator in Niles, IL.

Survivors include a friend and sister-in-law, Nancy Scott of Chelsea; five nieces; Diana Williams, Patti Nickols, Wendy Squires, Melinda Winkle, Debbie Winkle. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Neil, Lyle, and Robert; and a sister, Florence.

A private burial will be held at Washtenong Memorial Park in Ann Arbor. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Sumner, Clyde webClyde Randall Sumner
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 75, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2013 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor.
He was born on July 24, 1938 in Central City, Kentucky, the son of Riley and Irene (Barnes) Sumner. On July 1, 1961, he married Merry Eve Grady in Canton and she survives.

Clyde had lived in the area since 1978, coming from Detroit where he was a retired sergeant from the Detroit Police Department. He was also a member of the Livingston Lodge #76 F&AM in Pinckney and enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially salmon fishing up north. Clyde loved picnics with his family and his grandsons.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son David R. Sumner, daughter-in-law Amy Sumner, and grandsons Mitchell and Riley Sumner, all of Chelsea, along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son, Riley Scott Sumner, his parents, and his siblings: Lillian Peterson, Leonard Sumner, Mary Lu Sieloff, Darrel Sumner, Joanna Sumner, and an infant brother.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2013 at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Deacon Tom Franklin officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. with a Masonic service at 7:30 p.m.

Barillas,-CarolineCaroline Mary Barillas
Chelsea, Michigan

Formerly of Flushing, age 86, died Thursday, Oct. 24, 2013 at her home in Chelsea, MI. Caroline was born on Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, 1927 in Flint, MI, daughter of David and Marguerite (Landis) Middleton.

Her parents raised Caroline and her younger brother David in a loving home in Flint’s Civic Park neighborhood. She graduated from Flint Northern High School before earning a BA in Spanish at Marygrove College and an MA in Education at the University of Michigan. In forty-three years of teaching in Flint Community Schools, mainly in elementary education, Caroline left a great legacy in the lives of her students.

She met the love of her life, Guillermo Barillas of Guatemala City, Guatemala, at a college dance in Detroit. Their courtship included a romantic year in his country, a time of dances, drives in the mountains, and socializing with his family and friends. They married in 1956 and lived first in Guatemala and then in Flint before moving to Flushing, where they raised six children, three boys and three girls, providing them with unconditional love and strong values of compassion, integrity, and striving.

Caroline was a pretty, charming lady, who loved to meet people, always telling them about her children, of whom she was very proud. She loved dancing, listening to Latin music, and attending the symphony. She was a good swimmer, a voracious reader, and a fluent speaker of Spanish. Traveling brought her great happiness, including trips with her husband to Spain, Italy, Ireland, Argentina, Peru, Australia, and other countries. Of her many qualities, what most struck people were her sweetness, humor, intelligence, courage, belief in social justice, and heartfelt Catholic faith.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Guillermo Barillas, her daughter Maria Teresa Barillas-Hinds, her brother Dr. David Middleton, her foreign exchange student daughter Roberta Duarte Neves, her special cousin Claire Curran, and earlier by her parents. Carrying on with her love in their hearts are: her surviving children, Martin (wife Alice) of Flushing, Carolina of Manchester, MI, Elena (husband, David) also of Manchester, William (wife, María) of La Crosse, WI, and Michael of Orlando, FL; her grandchildren Taylor, Bettina, Mariana, Guillermo, Maya, and Daniel; foreign exchange student sons Luis and Antonio Gonzalez de Canales; and friends around the world. We love you, Mom.

The Funeral Mass was celebrated Friday, Oct. 25, at 11:30 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, Michigan, with Fr. Tim Nelson officiating. Burial followed at New Calvary, Flint, Michigan. The family received friends Friday from 10-11:30 a.m. at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers, PO Box 304, Maryknoll, NY 10545-0304, (888) 627-9566, www.maryknollsociety.org. Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, MI.

Redpath, Therese webMrs. Therese “Tess” (Zammitt) Redpath
Of Chelsea

Age 87, went peacefully to be with her Lord on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2013. She is now in Heaven with her husband of 60 years, John “Jack” Redpath; and her son, Michael John Redpath.

Tess was a wonderful and loving mother to Nancy and John Santrock (of Jackson), Jerry and Judy Redpath (Keswick, VA), Lynne Durston (Indian River, MI), Karen Kalmbach (Vernon, CT), Mary and Phil Dascola (Chelsea, MI), Carolyn Sykes (Ypsilanti, MI), Paul and Therese Redpath (South Lyon, MI), Julie and Michael Pettys (Cave Creek, AZ).

Grandma, mostly known as “Nanna”, will be missed by her grandchildren, John William Santrock, John Jacob (Brooke) Redpath, David (Missy) Durston, Mary Lynne Durston, Justin Redpath-Dascola, Thomas and Phillip Redpath, Lara and Josh Traczynski, Andrew (fiancée, Jenn) Kalmbach, Brian (fiancée, Becca) Kalmbach, Gabriella, Elisabeth, Anthony, Kristina, Michael and Stella Marie Redpath; very special great granddaughters, Chloe Redpath and Samantha Traczynski; brother-in-law, Rev. Joseph Lang; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Tess ran her home like clockwork while raising nine children, loved to spend time on the phone catching up with her family, and never forgot an important date or birthday for any of her grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2013, 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church (14200 E. Old US-12, Chelsea, MI 48118) with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner and Rev. Joseph Lang concelebrating. Tess’ family will greet friends and relatives at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Tuesday from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. (Rosary at 7:30 p.m.). Interment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

If one wishes, memorial contributions may be made to St. Louis Center (16195 Old U.S. 12, Chelsea, MI 48118).

Wakefield, Lester webLester H. Wakefield
of Chelsea, Michigan

Passed away on Thursday, Oct. 17, 2013 at the Chelsea Retirement Community Towsley Village.

He was born on May 13, 1923, along with his twin brother, in Duluth, Minnesota, to Edward and Ella (Stuberg) Wakefield. He served in WWII as an Army Air Corps P-47 Thunderbolt pilot and flew with the Puerto Rican Air National Guard in the 1950s.

He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota and completed advanced studies at the Thunderbird School of Global Management, Phoenix, AZ. He worked for the National City Bank of New York as an inspector of the bank’s branches in Central and South America. While stationed in Puerto Rico, he met his future wife, Connie, from his home state of Minnesota. He and Connie later settled in Minneapolis, where he first worked for the Burroughs Corporation and then started his own business providing accounting, consulting and tax services. During his adult life, he became active in his home churches: Christ Presbyterian, Edina, MN, Covenant Presbyterian and New Hope Presbyterian in Ft. Myers, FL. He taught Sunday school, ushered, was active in Stephen Ministries, and served as an elder and a deacon. During his 27 years at Cross Creek Country Club in Florida, he served seven years on the condo board as president and enjoyed the great golf, neighbors, and friends.

Survivors include his wife, Connie (McGuiggan) Wakefield; his children: Gregory (Susan) Wakefield of Ann Arbor, MI, Leigh (Karin) Wakefield of Moorhead, MN, and Radleigh (Tracy) Wakefield of Union, KY; grandchildren: Elizabeth, Katherine, Patrick, Tessa, Radleigh, Paige, Jeremy and Joshua; a niece, Carolyn Idso of Arizona, and nephews, Bruce and Alvin Wakefield of Minnesota. He was preceded in death by his siblings: Chester (his twin), Charles, Olive Quigley, and William.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 28, 2013 at Silver Maples Retirement Community in Chelsea with Pastor Jeff Crowder officiating. Memorials may be made to Faith In Action, 603 S. Main St., Chelsea, MI 48118. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

 

Hollenberg, Fred webFred H. Hollenberg
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 98, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2013 at the Chelsea Retirement Community.

A life well lived, a job well done. Blessed with the time and energy to want things to be better for everyone. What a wonderful life. A lifelong learner and warrior for a better life for all, he contributed to charities locally and worldwide supporting many individuals with efforts small and large.

Fred was born on April 17, 1915 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the son of Frederick H. and Emma D. (Illi) Hollenberg. On July 13, 1940 he married Catherine Dentzer in Philadelphia and she preceded him in death on August 7, 2002. Fred had lived in the area since 1998 and was a former member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea. Fred had been active in the church and numerous committees at the CRC. He was also very active and held numerous leadership positions in many organizations including the Cleveland Society of Paint, Boy Scouts, the Optimist Club, and prison ministries.

Surviving are his children: Paul (Emily) Hollenberg of Ann Arbor, David (Pat) Hollenberg of Surry, Maine, and Ginny (Jeff) Edleman of Hershey, Pennsylvania; seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren; and five nieces and three nephews. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his brother, Walter Hollenberg, and his sisters: Esther Van Horn, Edna Hahn, and Helen Cunningham.

He was a very kind and gentle man. He will be remembered with love for his sense of humor and his very positive outlook by all who knew him. A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2013, at the Chelsea Retirement Community Chapel with Rev. Beth Foster officiating. The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the United Methodist Retirement Communities Heritage Foundation. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Trachet,-Ronald-webRonald Nicholas Trachet
of Grass Lake, formerly of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 80, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2013 at his home. He was born on Jan. 1, 1933 in Butler, Pennsylvania, to John Henry and Mary (Sysnoski) Tkaczyk, the youngest of 17 siblings.

Ron had lived in Grass Lake since 2000, coming from Chelsea, and was a member of the Federated Church of Grass Lake. He had worked as a meat cutter for several companies including IGA, Kroger, and Packards, and was retired from O & S Bearing Manufacturing Company.

On April 7, 1951 he married Doris Jean Hagadon in Ann Arbor and they had four children: Mary Catherine (James) Bredernitz of Chelsea, Ronna Jean (William) Clement of Gulliver, MI, Janice Leslie (Rick) Snyder of Tecumseh, and Samuel John Trachet of Jackson. On May 16, 2003, Doris preceded him in death. He then married Sally Ann Leffler on March 20, 2004, and she survives along with her daughter, Becky (Rocky) Heinrichs of Paris, KY. Also surviving are 17 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, and two sisters: Katherine (James) Smith of Erie, PA and Helen (George) Isovitch of Tenessee.

A Funeral Service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 20, 2013 at the Federated Church of Grass Lake with Rev. Chuck McNeil officiating. Private interment will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Federated Church of Grass Lake or Arbor Hospice Foundation. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Saturday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. and at the church on Sunday from 1 p.m. until the time of service.

Bartzdorfer_Ellen2Ellen Florence Batzdorfer
formerly of Chelsea, MI

Age 95, died Friday, Oct. 11, 2013 at Legacy Assisted Living in Jackson. She was born Sept. 21, 1918 in Bellaire, Ohio, the daughter of Joseph & Louise (Getrost) Jeffers.

Ellen worked at Malloy Lithographing in Ann Arbor. She volunteered at Chelsea Retirement Community. Ellen was a homemaker, a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother.

On Feb. 1, 1939, she married Ross Batzdorfer, and he preceded her in death in 1984. Survivors include a son, Eric (Cynthia) Batzdorfer of Gregory; two daughters, Judy (Jim) Rice of North Ridgeville, OH, Linda Ori of Salt Lake City, UT; a sister, Elizabeth Bennington of Bellaire, OH; nine grandchildren, Aaron Batzdorfer, Megan (Brian) Jackson, Jimae (Doug) Hubert, Jimmy Ori, Randy Ori, Pam (Bob) Williamson, Bryan Rice, Eric (Mary) Rice, Becky Rice; 14 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by 5 sisters, Garnet, Edna, Mildred, Evelyn and Rosaleen; and two brothers, Floyd and Charles.

A private burial will be held at Powhatan Point Cemetery, Powhatan, OH. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

 

Patrick,-Pearlie-webPearlie Patrick (formerly Whitaker)
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 96, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2013 in Brooklyn, MI, with her family by her side.

She was born on Nov. 5, 1916 in Magoffin County, Kentucky, the daughter of Came and Margaret (Wireman) Bailey. Pearlie came from Kentucky in the late 1930s and worked for Rockwell Standard at the Chelsea Spring Plant, retiring after over 30 years of service. She was a member of the Church of Christ in Stockbridge and enjoyed cooking, canning, and making quilts.

Surviving are two children, Mitchel Whitaker of Brooklyn, MI, and Vivian (David) Kessler of Indiana; four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Dollie Neeley of Ypsilanti and Irmy Minix of Indiana. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Kinnie Whitaker in 1952, and her siblings: brother Archie Bailey, sisters Tellie, Frances, Lindy, Evy, and Bertha, and also two infant siblings.

A Graveside Service will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 14, 2013, at the Oaklawn Cemetery in Stockbridge with Larrel Whitaker officiating. Immediately following the service there will be a dinner at the Church of Christ in Stockbridge.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Church. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

 

Kalmbach, Flora webFlora May Kalmbach
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 81, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2013 at her home. She was born on June 3, 1932 in Jefferson Co., Alabama, the daughter of Lucian and Elsie (Miller) Smith. On March 20, 1954 she married Robert Edward Kalmbach in Ann Arbor and he preceded her in death on Feb. 12, 2001.

Flora had been a Girl Scout and Cub Scout leader, enjoyed flowers and gardening, and she especially loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Surviving are her children: Chryle (Doug) Adams of Chelsea, Robert (Debbie) Kalmbach Jr. of Grass Lake, Terri Kalmbach of Chelsea, and Kim (Diane) Kalmbach of Stockbridge; six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; and two siblings, Mona Louise Kelley of Bessemer, AL, and Jake William (Margaret) Smith of Ypsilanti. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a grandson, Steven, and eight siblings.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 12, 2013 at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Frederick Hatfield officiating. Burial will follow at Washtenong Memorial Park in Ann Arbor.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Arbor Hospice Foundation in Ann Arbor or the Alzheimer’s Association in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

 

Fleming,-Dorothy-webDorothy A. Fleming
of Dexter, Michigan

Age 97, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2013 at the Saline Evangelical Home.

She was born on Sept. 24, 1916 in Dexter Twp., the daughter of Harry and Elsie (Schultz) Walsh. On Feb. 10, 1940 she married Clyde D. Fleming and he preceded her in death on May 1, 1959.

Dorothy had lived in the area her entire life and was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dexter. She was a 1935 graduate of Dexter High School and she loved bowling and traveling.

Surviving are her daughters, Betty K. Mull of Ann Arbor and Mary Jo (Thomas) Barlow of Kalkaska; her grandchildren: Tom Mull of Ann Arbor, Mark Mull of Stockbridge, and granddaughter-in-law Darcy Barlow, and great-grandchildren: Rebecca, Zachary, and Gavin Barlow; and several nieces, nephews, friends, and caregivers. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a grandson, Scott Barlow, and her siblings: Lenore Baker, Virginia Lawrence, Mary Stephens, and Louis Walsh.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be prayed at 11 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 14, 2013, at the St. Joseph Village Church, 3430 Dover St., Dexter, with Fr. Brendan J. Walsh presiding. Burial will follow at the St. Joseph Cemetery in Dexter. The family will receive friends on Sunday from 4-8 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, and on Monday at the church from 10 a.m. until the start of mass.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Humane Society of Huron Valley, the Arbor Hospice Foundation, or Saline Evangelical Home.

Reeves, Paul webReeves, Paul D.

Died Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2013 after a long battle with lung cancer.

Paul was born in Pitman, Arkansas on July 25, 1935 to Ulric and Lena (Redwine) Reeves and was the last of five children. An infant brother died before Paul was born, but his sisters survive: Juanita Welchel, Glenda Crafton, and Maxine Crafton.

Paul attended Ann Arbor High School and joined the Navy in 1953. He married Carol Sue Schneeberger on Dec. 23, 1954 and they remained married and devoted to each other until his death. Together, they had four children: Debra Burmeister, Teresa (Bruce) Szcodronski, Barbara (Alan) Sutton, and Betsy Bos. He was teased frequently about the trials and tribulations of living with five women, but found himself surrounded by love. Paul is also survived by ten grandchildren: Stacey (Burmeister) Gingras, Lisa and Brad Burmeister, Kay, Carly, and Jay Szcodronski, Christopher and Alana Sutton, Derek Sievertsen, and Erica Bos, and one great-grandson, Jacob.

Paul spent most of his career as a sales manager for Ervin Industries, retiring in 1997 after almost 40 years of service. Paul was an avid reader and was especially interested in Native American culture. He was a horseman, enjoyed traveling, and was fond of western movies. He was a cowboy at heart.

The Gathering of Family and Friends will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2013 from 4-7 p.m. with a Time of Remembrance at 7 p.m. Interment will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, MI.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Joseph Mercy Hospice or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Becker Forrest 3Forrest Paul “Frosty” Becker II
of Chelsea, MI, formerly of Dexter

Age 77, died Saturday, Sept. 28, 2013 at the University of Michigan Hospital. He was born April 22, 1936 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Forrest & Ruth (Condon) Becker.

Forrest graduated from Pioneer High School. He was an Analyst for Ford for 35 years in Saline and Dearborn. Forrest had been a Youth League baseball coach when his boys were young. He never missed one of his kid’s sporting events. Forrest loved to fish, hunt, and being outdoors at his cottage up North. In the 1950’s he served in the Army. Forrest was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church. He was well-read, and was a contemplative man. Forrest was a loving husband and father.

On Nov. 5, 1965 he married Elizabeth Ann Swiecicki in Ann Arbor, and she survives. He is also survived by a daughter, Julie (James) Gregory of Chelsea; three sons, Paul Becker of Cadillac, Forrest Becker III of Chelsea, Mark (Jennifer) of Pinckney; a sister, Sally Jo (Dick) Barth of Everett; five grandchildren, Hayden, Gabby, Katie, James, and Samantha.

A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, Oct. 4, 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel, Thursday from 6-8 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Michigan Trout Unlimited, PO Box 442, Dewitt, MI 48820 or St. Mary Catholic Church, 14200 Old US-12, Chelsea, MI 48118.

Boyer-DuaneDuane Hale Boyer

Age 83, died Sept. 26 in Jackson at Arbor Woods Assisted Living Community.

He was born Sept. 2, 1930, in Mulliken, Michigan, to Fremont Lee and Ruby Louise (Huffman) Boyer. He moved to Chelsea in 1948 where he resided until April of 2013. Duane served in the Army during the Korean Conflict where he drove a Sherman tank.

He worked as a machine repairman for Central Fiber and Chelsea Industries and retired in 1995. He also worked for Heydlauff’s Appliance for many years. He was active in the Chelsea VFW Post .

Duane enjoyed his 14 trips to Las Vegas and visiting casinos whenever possible. His hobbies included playing cribbage and bingo; watching wildlife especially birds, deer, and squirrels; deer hunting; and spending time with family.

Duane was married to Eileen (Hankerd) Brooks from 1954-1974. Duane married Virginia (Rumph) Schirrmacher in 1983 in Las Vegas, and she preceded him in death in 2009. Survivors are Cindy (Jeff) Williams, Jackson; Pamela Boyer, Colorado; Mike Boyer, Jackson; Wanda (Brian) Owings, Bay City; Lisa (Frank) Johnson, Ann Arbor; Laura (Rob) Gillow, Jackson; William (Peri) Schirrmacher, Georgia; Harvey (Carolyn) Schirrmacher, Virginia; Christine (Skip) Head, Virginia; Carolyn (Dennis) Sheppard, Chelsea; Candace Hadley, Missouri; 29 grandchildren; and 38 great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his brothers Floyd Boyer, Keith Boyer, and Fremont Boyer; sister Eulahlee Packard; grandson Jake Kaidan; and granddaughter Veronica Schirrmacher.

Visitation is Monday, Sept.30, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, Michigan. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, Oct. 1, at 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, Michigan, with Duane’s son-in-law, Jeffery Williams, of the Westwood Church of God officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Great Lakes Caring Hospice, 900 Cooper St., Jackson, MI 49202.

Hadley, BrockBrock Joseph Hadley
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 48, died Sunday, Sept. 22, 2013. He was born April 1, 1965 in Wayne, Michigan, the son of Robert Tek & Kathleen Edith (Lillibridge) Hadley.

Brock graduated from Chelsea High School Class of 1983, and worked for Chelsea Industries for 18 years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, anything outdoors and spending time with his dog.

On Dec. 14, 1984 he married Candace Schirrmacher in Chelsea, and she survives. Other survivors include three sons; Benjamin Hadley of Norwood, MO, Jacob ( Kimberly) Hadley of Rodgersville, MO and Austin Hadley of Norwood, MO; his father, Robert and step-mother, Donna Bernard; a special friend Cynthia Bowen of Chelsea; a brother, John McBlain of Grass Lake; two sisters, Leah (Kevin) Kunzelman of Chelsea and Laurie Sutherland of Chelsea; 3 grandchildren, Riley, Trece and Jaiden; and many nieces and nephews. Brock was preceded in death by his mother.

Burial of his ashes will be in Rural Hill Cemetery, Northville. Memorial contributions may be made to Cole Funeral Chapel to help with funeral expenses.

Foster,-Charles-webCharles J. Foster
formerly of Detroit, Michigan

Age 83, passed away on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2013 at the Chelsea Retirement Community Towsley Village in Chelsea, MI.

He was born on June 21, 1930 in Detroit, the son of Frank and Jean (Harkness) Foster. He enjoyed playing piano and organ, exercise and used to walk 6 to 7 miles per day. He loved cats. Survivors include five nieces and a nephew, eight great-nieces and -nephews, one great-great-niece, and three great-great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Sarah Jean Kossick and Daniel Foster.

A Funeral Service will be held at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2013 at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. Visitation will be held from 2 p.m. until the time of service. Expressions of sympathy may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

Mullen, Mark webMark Joseph Mullen
of Ypsilanti, Michigan

Age 53, passed away on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013 in Ann Arbor, MI.

He was born on Jan. 20, 1960 in Garden City, MI, the son of Joseph Thomas Mullen and Shirley Ann (Klempert). On Sept. 5, 1987 he married Marcia Suanne Peck in Ann Arbor and she survives.

Mark received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Michigan. He loved hunting, fishing, and golf, and coached baseball for 15 years, including service at Huron and Pioneer High Schools.

In addition to his wife, surviving are his son, Bryan Douglas Mullen of Ann Arbor, his mother, Shirley Ann (Daniel) Calcaterra of Gaylord, and his brother Brian (Michelle) Morell of Melbourne, FL.

Visitation will be at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2013 from 10 a.m. until a time of reflection on Mark’s life at 3 p.m. Private burial will take place at Mount Hope Cemetery, Freedom Twp.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Ducks Unlimited Western Washtenaw County Chapter.

DeGalan-HennyPenny A. DeGalan
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 91, died Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2013 at Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born Feb. 9, 1922 in Germany, the daughter of Albert & Elisabeth (Trabant) Amelang. Penny immigrated to the United States in 1929 and lived in Detroit until she was a young adult. She became a US Citizen in 1931.

Penny lived in Grosse Pointe Farms for 55 years. She was a longtime member of the Grosse Pointe Farms Boat Club and was active in the Grosse Pointe SOC (Services for Older Citizens).

On July 5, 1944, she married William V. DeGalan in Georgia, and he preceded her in death on Nov. 2, 1996. Survivors include two sons, Dean (Cynthia) DeGalan of Dexter and Brian (Leslie) DeGalan of Grand Rapids; three grandchildren, Lauren DeGalan, Shelby DeGalan, Elizabeth (Brennan McDonough) Matthews; two great-grandchildren, Ella and Sophie; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by four sisters, Melitta Bauer, Hertha Gruenkorn, Minerva Hintzen, and Katchen Werner.

A memorial service will be held Monday, Oct. 14, 2 p.m. at Chelsea Retirement Community’s Main Chapel, with Rev. Cathy Rafferty officiating. Her ashes will be placed at the columbarium of St. Paul on the Lake Catholic Church in Grosse Pointe Farms, MI. Memorial contributions may be made to UMRC Heritage Foundation, Development Office 805 West Middle St., Chelsea, Michigan 48118.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

Neff,-Louise-webLouise Marie Neff
of Ann Arbor, Michigan

Age 98, passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2013 at the Sacred Heart Care Home in Gregory.

She was born on June 16, 1915 in Appleton, Wisconsin, the daughter of William H. and Anna H. (Kleinschmidt) Henning. Louise was a devoted mother and caregiver to her family. She liked to putz, work on puzzle books, sew, play cards, and fish.

Surviving are her sons: Richard (Sandie) Neff of Gregory, Ronald (Sandy) Neff of Dexter, and Robert Neff of Chelsea; her grandchildren: Teri (Tom) Bareis, Mark (Kristin) Neff, Susie (Joey) Long, Scott Neff, and Shane Neff; and her great-grandchildren: Daniel, Cody, Iain, Corbin, Addison, Hunter, and Jessica Neff, and Emma and Hayden Long. She was preceded in death by her husband Floyd William Neff in 2003, her sisters Erma, Elsie, Ida, and Bertha, her parents, and her great-grandson Colton Neff.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 15, 2013 at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. Private burial will take place at Bethlehem Cemetery, Ann Arbor. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from noon until the time of service.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the St. Louis Center, Chelsea.

Gillikin,-Susan-webSusan Martha Gillikin
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 64, passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2013 at her home. She was born on June 3, 1949 in Detroit, the daughter of Warren and Marianne (Plappert) Glinn.

On Dec. 18, 1971 she married Gerald J. Gillikin Jr. in Dearborn and he survives. Sue had lived in the area since 1987, was a paraprofessional for Chelsea schools, and a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea. She enjoyed spending time with her family, cooking, camping, baking, and going snowmobiling.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children, Nathan (Kayla) Gillikin of Canton and Aaron (Cecilia) Gillikin of Manchester; grandson Tristan; father Warren Glinn of Traverse City; and brothers, Daniel (Lynn) Glinn of Calumet and Timothy Glinn of Dearborn. She was preceded in death by her mother.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2013 at Our Savior Lutheran Church, Chelsea, with Rev. Dale Grimm officiating. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Thursday from 6-8 p.m. and Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Burial will take place at Glen Eden Lutheran Memorial Park, Livonia.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to an education fund for grandson Tristan in care of TCF Bank.

Mildred V. Carty
Of Jackson, Michigan

Age 96, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 5, 2013 at the Ridgecrest Health Campus in Jackson. She was born on Aug. 24, 1917 in Lyndon Twp., Michigan, the daughter of Alva and Helen (Collins) Beeman.

She graduated from Chelsea High School in 1934 and was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jackson ward. Mildred enjoyed birds, rocks, trees, gardens, and antiques. On Jan. 23, 1938, she married Kenneth G. “Pete” Carty and he preceded her in death on Nov. 25, 1965.

Surviving are her son, Kenneth G. Carty Jr. of Waterloo Twp., five grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews including Orson Jr. “Sonny” (Mary Ann) Beeman of Grass Lake and Marlaine Beeman of Florida. She was also preceded in death by her daughter Mildred “Kay” Carty, brothers Norman Beeman and Orson Beeman, Sr., and sister H. Luella Beeman.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 9, 2013 at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Bishop Jerry L. Larsen and Bishop Allen Hicken speaking. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery in Waterloo Twp.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Ridgecrest Health Campus. The family will receive friends on Sunday at the funeral home from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

Bradbury,-Rosella-couch-croppedRosella I. Bradbury
Of Ann Arbor, MI

Age 90, died Monday, Sept. 2, 2013 at Whitehall Healthcare Center in Ann Arbor. She was born Dec. 20, 1922 in Toledo, Ohio, the daughter of Floyd B. & Marie P. (Purkey) Flaugher. Mrs. Bradbury was a resident of the Chelsea/Dexter area most of her life.

She was active in Chelsea Senior Citizens and was an active volunteer for Chelsea Community Hospital. She married Richard A. Bradbury in Dexter, MI on Sept. 25, 1942, and he preceded her in death on Jan. 6, 1995. Survivors include two sons, Mark Bradbury of Bessemer and Martin Bradbury of VA; one daughter, Martha Blanton of Ann Arbor; 6 grandchildren; one great-grandson, Drew; one great-granddaughter, River; 1 sister, Eloise Schulz of Waterloo. She was preceded in death by her sister, Virginia Hinderer and a brother, Norman Flaugher.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Sept. 6, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Rev. King Hanna officiating. Burial will follow at Clements Cemetery on Jackson Road. The family will receive friends Thursday from 5-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Senior Citizens.

Lois Geneva Bolton
Of Elk Rapids, Michigan

Age 95, passed away at home on Monday, Sept. 2, 2013 with her family by her side.

She was born in Bardwell, KY on Oct. 31, 1917 to Jeff and Emily Briney. Geneva spent most of her life in Chelsea, MI.

She is survived by her daughter Jennifer (Jim) Lawrence of Elk Rapids, nephew Edward Bolton of Symsonia, KY, niece Barbara Golbinec of Toledo, OH, and son-in-law Charles Wenk of Chelsea. Geneva was predeceased by her daughter Lois (Bolton) Wenk and husband Clifford E. Bolton.

Geneva enjoyed her many years of work, hospital volunteering, and travel. She enjoyed jogging, sewing, and cooking into her 90s. She often remarked that she had a full life blessed with many friends. Her friends were of different ages and backgrounds – a testament to her ability to be a great, non-judgmental, accepting friend to all.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2013 at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea. Visitation will be from noon until the time of service. Burial will take place at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to Hospice of Michigan who made her final days comfortable and peaceful.

Higgins,-MaryMary Anderson Higgins
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Mary’s three-year battle with cancer ended peacefully Thursday, July 18 at her home, surrounded by family. She was born to Albert and Charlotte Anderson, on Sept. 25, 1964, in Des Moines, Iowa, a little sister to “Andy” and Paul. Her family has resided in Sharon Township since 1972.

Mary graduated from Chelsea High in 1982. She went on to earn her BS degree in biology from the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. She worked in quality control and FDA compliance for several companies that manufactured medical devices in Ohio, Florida, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. Most recently she had her own firm providing consulting and training in regulatory affairs to businesses across the US and around the world.

In addition to her love for family and friends, Mary loved animals. The most spectacular animal in her life was Rufus, a Malamute-Timber Wolf hybrid and canine genius. Through Rufus, she met Dennis Higgins. Mary and Dennis were married April 22, 1998, on the beach at Ocho Rios, Jamaica. They adopted their son, Andrew Jacob “AJ” at two days old in October of 2003.

Along with her family, Mary’s other love in life was working with fiber and textile arts. She won many awards as a member of the Terrific Tailors 4-H Club and was a long-time member of the Spinner’s Flock in Chelsea. Her passion for fiber and costume also grew as a member of the Society for Creative Anachronism, a medieval recreation organization. In the SCA her vibrancy and enthusiasm made her many friends within the group and across the country.

In this world of givers and takers, Mary was a generous giver. Beyond sharing her material goods and time, she gave unconditional love. She was tolerant, forgiving & nonjudgmental, especially toward those who were most in need of approval. Mary lived with rare inflammatory breast cancer just as she lived lifebefore cancer, without fear and eager for her next adventure. She viewed death as an integral part of life and believed in many wonders yet to be revealed.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Paul and Luella Houston from Missouri, and A.F. “Frank” and Agnes Anderson from Iowa. She will be greatly missed by her husband and son, along with her parents, her brothers’ families, cousins and many, many more friends and family all over the world.

Cremation has occurred. A Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, Sept. 1 with visitation from noon to 1p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea. A memorial service will begin at 1 p.m. with a committal service to follow in Oak Grove East Cemetery, with Pastor Jim Coyl officiating.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Mary Higgins Memorial Fund, 1342 Armstrong Dr., Chelsea, MI 48118.

John Richard Strahler
Chelsea, Michigan

Passed away Friday, Aug. 16, 2013. He was 70 years old. John was born June 12, 1943 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the son of Richard and Ann (Kovalcheck) Strahler.

John earned his Ph.D from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1974, and spent his career as a Biochemist at the University of Michigan and Michigan State University. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed whitewater kayaking, bow hunting, and cross country skiing. He worked with stained glass and loved to start projects and confuse people with elaborate puzzles. In his retirement, he indulged his passion for research and pursued the genealogical history of his family.

John leaves a loving family including his wife of 37 years, Carol (Pototzki); a son Erik and partner Elizabeth Jesien of Madison, Wisconsin; a son Christopher and daughter-in-law Emily (Leidner), and grandson Daniel of Fryeburg, Maine; and siblings Mary Ann Yeager, Louise Spithaler, Dolores Manfredo, Bernice Strahler, and Lawrence Strahler and their families. He was preceded in death by his brother George and his parents.

A memorial for family took place Monday, Aug. 19 at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea. Contributions in remembrance may be made to Waterloo Farm Museum.

Charles K. Montgomery
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 61, died Friday, Aug. 9, 2013 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital. He was born Aug. 17, 1951 in Royalton, KY, the son of Hade & Vera Vivian (Arnett) Montgomery.

Charlie worked for Malloy Lithographing for 43 years. He was an avid collector of case knives, loved photography, woodworking, and solving puzzles. Charlie loved a good challenge and enjoyed helping others.

Survivors include his life companion of many years, Susan Bareis; a son Christopher and his fiancé Melody of Canton; two sisters, Dorothy (Al Hartman) of Covington, KY, Eula (Lloyd) Eddy of Chelsea; a brother, James Montgomery of Manchester; many nieces and nephews; and “the girls”, Sophie and Daisy Mae.

Funeral services will be held Monday, Aug. 12, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Rev. Ann Salyer officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends Sunday 1-4 & 6-8 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Community Hospital.

Dapprich, Mary webMary Ruth Dapprich
Chelsea, MI

Age 67, passed away at her home on Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2013.

She was a longtime resident of Tecumseh, MI, and more recently of Chelsea, MI. Mary was born on April 30, 1946, in Toms River, New Jersey, the daughter of Harry and Ruth (Davidson) Fenimore. On July 15, 1967, she married Frederick Dapprich in Ypsilanti, MI, and they celebrated a renewal of vows on July 24, 2007.

Mary was an Executive Assistant at General Motors until her retirement. She enjoyed going to garage sales and auctions, looked forward to her family’s yearly reunion trip to Seaside Heights, NJ, and loved spending time with her two grandchildren. Mary was a compassionate person, and is remembered for her generosity and patience. She made special occasions lovingly memorable.

Mary is survived by her husband and her three children: Rick Dapprich (Wendy Stuart) of West Bloomfield, Michelle (Steve) Eardley of Chelsea, and Stacy (Jason) Adams of Chelsea, grandchildren Madeline and Cooper, and siblings Jim (Pam) Fenimore of Burlington, VT, and Betty (Bruce) Teja of Toms River, NJ. Her parents and her brother, Don Fenimore, preceded her in death.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2013, at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, MI, with Mary’s nephew, Rev. Dr. James Fenimore, officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 5-7 p.m. and Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the service begins. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Arbor Hospice Foundation.

Benjamin,-Patricia-croppedPatricia Rose Benjamin
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 61, died Tuesday, July 30, 2013 at St. Joseph Mercy hospital in Ypsilanti, Michigan. She was born Feb. 29, 1952 in Ypsilanti, Michigan, the daughter of Lloyd & Frances (Glenn) Frye.

Patricia was a Ypsilanti High School graduate. She attended Washtenaw Community College where she earned a nursing degree. She was a member of the Dexter Church of Christ. Patricia worked as a RN at U of M from 1981-1995, she worked in the Holden NICU. She was a strong Christian woman who really loved the Lord and studied the Bible often. Patricia loved to craft and quilt, and truly loved spending time with her grandchildren.

She married Lyndon C. Benjamin in Ypsilanti on Oct. 20, 1972, and he preceded her in death on Dec. 31, 2006. Survivors include two daughters, Angela Benjamin of Chelsea, Rachel Benjamin of Chelsea; one sister, Christine Francher of Alpena; one grandson, Owen Benjamin; and one granddaughter, Ava Rose Benjamin. She was preceded in death by a sister, Claudine Sipe; brother, Richard Frye; and her parents.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Aug. 2, 2013, at 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, Michigan with Carl Whitelaw officiating. A private burial will be held at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea, Michigan. The family will receive friends Thursday, 3-5 & 7-9 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Dexter Church of Christ.

Cook, Ellen webEllen Jane Cook
of Gregory, Michigan

Age 74, passed away on Saturday, July 27, 2013 at her home. She was born on Sept. 23, 1938 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Martin and Alfreda (Redwanz) Maser.

On July 14, 1956, she married Ronnie Cook in Ann Arbor and he preceded her in death on Oct. 9, 2009. Ellen attended the North Lake United Methodist Church. She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandson, and living on the lake and teaching him how to waterski. Ellen also enjoyed carving songbirds, sewing, making hats, crotchet, and casino trips with anyone.

Surviving are her son Mark (Debbie) Cook of Jackson, grandson Colin Cook of Jackson, and sister Betty (Mick) Hieber of Dexter. In addition to her husband she was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Ruthie Maser.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 31, 2013 from 5-8 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea. A private burial will take place at North Lake Cemetery. Memorial Contributions may be made to the North Lake United Methodist Church.

Hibnar, Howard webHoward Hibnar

Age 72, passed away on Monday, July 22, 2013 at the Shiawassee County Medical Care Facility in Corunna, Michigan.

He was born on Sept.12, 1940 in Paw Paw, MI, the son of Carl and Edna (Smith) Hibnar. He is survived by four siblings: Verna Martin of St. Joseph, Carl Hibnar Jr. of Muskegon, Albert Hibnar of St. Joseph, and Larry Hibnar of Muskegon, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Viola Hafley and Velma Culver.

A Graveside Service will be held on Friday, July 26, 2013 at 10 a.m. at Maple Grove Cemetery in Sylvan Twp. with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Shiawassee County Medical Care Facility. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Hilliard, James webJames Russell Hilliard
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 91, passed away on Tuesday, July 23, 2013 at the Chelsea Retirement Community. He was born on Dec. 30, 1921 in Jacksboro, Texas, one of nine children of Simeon and Jessie (Johnston) Hilliard, and grew up in rural Oklahoma during the Depression.

Jim was a retired Methodist minister and had lived in Chelsea since 2000, coming from Arkansas. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II from 1942-46 in the Pacific Amphibious Force and received his Bachelor’s Degree in Social Casework from Northern Michigan University and Master of Divinity from Garrett Seminary in Evanston, IL. He became a deacon in 1966, was ordained in 1970, and served as pastor at churches in the Upper Peninsula, Houghton Lake, and the Ozark Mountains. A published author, Jim enjoyed writing poems, books, and magazine articles, and his interests also included gardening, hiking, classical music, and staying involved with many activities at the CRC.

On Jan. 18, 1969, he married Viola “Vi” (Polkky) Wallen in Ewen, MI, and she survives along with several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings. A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, July 30, 2013 at 2 p.m. at the Chelsea Retirement Community Main Chapel with Rev. Cathy Rafferty officiating. Memorial Contributions may be made to the United Methodist Retirement Communities Heritage Foundation. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Albert Edward Humphreys
Jackson, Michigan

Age 80, died Monday, July 22, 2013 at V. A. Healthcare System Ann Arbor. He was born Dec. 6, 1932 in Bellmore, Long Island, NY, the son of Albert & Agnes Humphreys.

Albert was a level 12 engineer for the United States Government located in Warren, MI. He was also a member of St. Stanislaus Kostka Chapel in Jackson MI. Albert enjoyed golfing and fishing.

He married Ruth Mildred, and she preceded him in death on June 26, 2004. Survivors include a daughter, Eileen (Jerry Huling) Humphreys; 2 grandchildren, Ashley and Austin Mason; a brother, Johnny Humphreys; and several nieces and nephews; also Albert’s longtime significant other Marion Schiele, and her children Larry Schiele and Carol (Steven) Bavin.

The family held a private service and cremation has taken place. Burial will be at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Battle Creek, MI. Memorial contributions may be made to the ALS Association. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Bristle,-Karen-webKaren Bristle
Of Ann Arbor, Michigan

Age 72, passed away at home on Thursday, July 18, 2013. She was born on May 27, 1941 to Rena and Simon Girbach. Karen is survived by her husband, Stephen Bristle; her mother, Rena Girbach; children: Kimberly (Art) Schrade, Kelly (Tom) Bristle-Ekovich, Kerri (Derek) Blakeney, and Marcus (Valisa) Bristle; sister Gail Girbach and brother Arnold Girbach; eight grandchildren: Morgan and Kennedy Ekovich, Kelsey, Nick and Sara Schrade, Raelyn and Harlee Bristle, and Kade Stephen Blakeney; as well as many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father Simon Girbach and brother Duane Girbach.

She worked as a Thrivent Financial Consultant for 30+ years, was an active member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bridgewater, MI, and served on the board of Lutheran Social Services of Michigan. She was also a 4-H leader for many years as well as a dairy quiz bowl coach.

Karen loved her family and her church and devoted countless hours and energy to them both. She led a life as God wanted, which was to serve your neighbors quietly without fanfare, lend a helping hand, and share a kind word anonymously for this is His way.

The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses, and support staff at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital for their wonderful care and kindness during her treatment and brief stay at the hospital. A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, July 23, 2013 at 11 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 8805 Austin Rd., Bridgewater, MI 48115, with Rev. Kathleen Meyers officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Monday from 2-8 p.m. Donations can be made in her memory to Lutheran Social Services of Michigan or St. John’s Lutheran Church Cemetery Fund.

Munro, Joyce webJoyce Marie Munro
of Peoria, Illinois, formerly of Chelsea

Age 81, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 14, 2013 at Methodist Hospital in Peoria. Joyce was born on Sept. 10, 1931 in Mexico, Indiana, to Eugene Malott and Mary Peters Malott. She married Loren Munro on Sept. 8, 1951 in Chelsea, MI. Joyce was a loving wife of 62 years, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother (GiGi).

She was a former resident of Chelsea where she completed high school, graduating with the class of 1949, and then attending Michigan State College. Joyce had been involved with Girl Scouts, quilting, and enjoyed retirement RV traveling around North America. In the four years, she lived in Geneva, Switzerland, she enjoyed traveling Europe, Scandinavia, and the U.K.

She is survived by her husband Loren; daughters Joan Eddy of Grapevine, TX and Carol (Mike) Sweeney of Minneapolis, MN; sons Thomas Ross of Minneapolis, MN and Ronald Ross (Jill) of Wooster, OH; grandchildren: Michael (Bekah) Eddy of Peoria, IL, Matthew Eddy of Grapevine, TX, Holly Eddy of Windsor, NH, Heather (Andrew) Acuna of Mission, TX, Anna Joyce Munro of Wooster, OH, and great-granddaughter Morgan Olivia Eddy of Washington, IL.

A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, July 20, 2013 at 11 a.m. at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea, with Rev. James Coyl officiating. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, Michigan.

Staebler,-Harold-croppedStaebler, Harold R.
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 88, died Wednesday, July 10, 2013 at Towsley Village, Chelsea, MI. He was born Dec. 19, 1924 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of the late Reuben and Clara (Luckhart) Staebler.

Harold was a custodian for Gelman Sciences in Ann Arbor. He retired in 1991. Member of Faith Lutheran Church in Dexter.

He married Irma Bollinger in Washtenaw County and she preceded him in death on Jan. 14, 2000. Surviving is a sister, Milda (Clarence) Kremkow of Shelby Township; several nieces and nephews, Allen (Joan) Kremkow, Gerald Kremkow, Eileen (Alton) Landerschier, Kathy (Paul) Frisinger, Mary Ann (Rick) Rickerman, David (Judy) Staebler, and Nicki Staebler of OR. Harold was preceded in death by a sister, Leonora Staebler and nephew, Paul Staebler.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 13, at 1 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, with Rev. Mark Porinsky officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn, Dexter. The family will receive friends Saturday 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Lutheran Church, Dexter.

Snyder, Steven webSteven Thomas Snyder
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 49, passed away at the Arbor Hospice Residence on July 4, 2013. He was born on Feb. 28, 1964 in Livonia, Michigan the son of Thomas and Claudette (Morse) Snyder.

Steven graduated from Chelsea High School in 1982. He attended Calvin College, and then went into the military, serving in the US Army, 82 Airborne from 1987-1989, and the Michigan National Guard from 1989 until he was honorably discharged in 1992 due to illness.

He graduated with honors from Eastern Michigan University in 2003 with a degree in Geography and Remote Sensing. He enjoyed golf, collecting stamps, and had a special interest in archeology, especially arrow heads. He loved the out of doors, and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was a very social and gentle natured person who especially loved his nieces and nephew.

He is survived by his parents Thomas and Claudette of Chelsea, his sister, Cynthia (Marco) Silveri and his brother, Brant (Katherine) Snyder all of Chelsea; three nieces Anacarolina, Olivia, and Marisol, one nephew Brandon; several aunts and uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Larry and Marcelle Morse, and paternal grandparents Ralph and Audrey Snyder.

A Funeral Service was held on Tuesday, July 9, 2013 at 11 a.m. from the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor with Rev. Michael Wentzel officiating. Burial was at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. Memorial contributions may be made to the Arbor Hospice Foundation or the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan (20300 Civic Center Drive, Ste. 250, Southfield, MI 48076). Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Pezzani,-Assunta-webAssunta Maria Pezzani
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 98, died Friday, June 21, 2013 at home. She was born on Aug. 10, 1914, in Ticino, Switzerland, the daughter of Giuseppe and Regina (Tamborini) Pezzani.

She had lived in the United States for 13 years, spending the last eight years in Chelsea with her daughter Bruna (Pezzani) Kieffer. A member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Assunta spoke six languages, traveled the world, and practiced nursing until she was 74.

She married Bruno Pezzani and he preceded her in death. Her second husband Dario and three of her four children (Myriam, Diana, and Enrico) also preceded her in death. Surviving are one daughter Bruna (Pezzani) Kieffer of Chelsea, two sisters, Angela Somer and Nilla Albertini, seven grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.

Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, July 3, 2013 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Interment will take place in Zurich, Switzerland. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the St. Louis Center, Chelsea. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Theodore “Ted” Allen Ewald
of Munith, Michigan, formerly of Chelsea and Manchester

Age 62, died Tuesday, June 25, 2013 at Chelsea Community Hospital. He was born June 7, 1951 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Daniel F. & Clara M. (Miller) Ewald .

Ted graduated from Chelsea High School in 1969. He attended Chelsea First United Methodist Church, and was a Munith Lions Club volunteer. Ted founded and organized the Camel Fall Golf Classic in the Jackson area. He loved golf, playing music, cooking, gardening, landscaping, and he was a published poet.

On Jan. 14, 1979, he married Beverly S. Palmer in Grass Lake, and she survives. He is also survived by two daughters, Jennifer and Rein Ewald, both of Munith; his brother, Joe (Beth) Ewald of Chelsea; three sisters, Martha Salyer of Grass Lake, Carol Ford of Chelsea, Jane Engel of Homer; one grandson, Reid Ewald, and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Sunday June 30, 3 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Rev. Joy Barrett officiating. The family will receive friends Sunday 10-12:00 and 2-3:00 before the service. Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea. Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Notten, Albert Jr webAlbert J. Notten (Jr.)
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 81, passed away on Monday, June 24, 2013 at his home. He was born on Oct. 11, 1931 in Grass Lake, MI, the son of Albert Sr. and Gladys (Sluyter) Notten.

On May 9, 1953 he married Deloris A. Walker in Chelsea and she survives. He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Navy in 1953, serving during the Korean Conflict era. Jr. had lived in the area all of his life and was a charter member of the Covenant Church in Chelsea. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially hunting coon, squirrel, rabbit, and fishing, square dancing with the Stockbridge Squares, and was also a member of the Chelsea Senior Citizens, the American Legion, and
the U.S.S. Albany Association.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter Sandra Notten of Chelsea, son Randy (Cheryl) Notten of Jonesville, grandson Brian Mazur of Toledo, sisters Carrie Dunlap of Chelsea and Evelyn (Robert) Presnell of Grass Lake, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Robert Notten, Margie York, and Marie Bryant, and Roy and Alice Miller who raised him from the age of 9 years old until he went into the service.

A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, June 27, 2013 at 2 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Anthony Dickerson and Rev. Dr. Michael Bryan co-officiating. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Sylvan Township. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Covenant Church in Chelsea or St. Joseph Mercy Hospice in Ann Arbor.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

Libero “Jack” Rubis
of Chelsea

Age 90, died on Wednesday, June 19, 2013 in Chelsea, Michigan.

Jack grew up in Collinsville, Illinois where his family operated Rubis Imported Foods. When he graduated from high school Jack went directly to work for the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression. He spoke with pride of his time spent with the natural resource conservation program, during which he planted hundreds of trees throughout the state of Illinois until he was drafted into the Armed Services in 1943 during WWII.

While stationed in Detroit, but before his deployment to Central Europe, Jack met and married Martha Grzesiak. Jack served as a Sergeant in the US Army until 1946 when he returned to Michigan. He and Martha had two children and made Allen Park, Michigan their home for over 30 years. Jack worked for the Michigan Consolidated Gas Company and then for Wayne County at the Detroit Metropolitan Airport as an electrician until his retirement in 1984 when he and Martha moved to the Chelsea area.

Though Jack battled with chronic illness most of his adulthood, he will be remembered as a stellar example of stoicism. He enjoyed the design of life; from mapping the route to fixing the motors. He was an avid lifelong student and reader. Jack loved numbers and was happiest when he was managing his books.Friends and neighbors knew him as helpful and dependable.

Jack loved his canine companions almost as much as some of his relatives. He also enjoyed playing cards and spending time fishing at the family cottage.He was active until his very last days. His family was the center of his life and his greatest legacy. We are all better for knowing him.

Jack is survived by his wife of 69 years, Martha Rubis; his sister Annette Melton of Texas; his children Annette (Don) Pacheco of Stockbridge and John (Jan) Rubis of Harrison Township; his grandchildren Joe Rubis of Pittsburgh, Jane Pacheco (Dennis Crawley) of Chelsea and Scott Pacheco of San Francisco; his great grandchildren Gavin and Kiera, several nieces and nephews; and many great nieces and nephews. Jack was preceded in death by his brother Bruno Rubis.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Arbor Hospice or your favorite charity.

Interment will take place on Tuesday, June 25, 2013 at 9:30 a.m. at Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly.

Gene-OwensGene E. Owens
formerly of Chelsea, Michigan

Lt. Colonel USAF Retired, passed away June 16, 2013, at home in San Antonio, Tx. with his beloved TiTi by his side.

Born Aug. 9, 1938, in Royalton, Kentucky, Owens grew up in Chelsea, MI, graduating in 1957 from Chelsea High School. He earned degrees at Michigan State University, University of Michigan, and Colorado University. But it was his 20-year Air Force career and status as a veteran of Vietnam combat that provided life fulfillment.

In the military, he was known as a “trouble shooter” for his ability to take on problem assignments in difficult locations. For his leadership, he was awarded the Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm, Bronze Star with “V” for Valor and the Meritorious Service Award with two Oak Leaf Unit Citation.

Preparation for his military career included graduating from the Air Force Squadron Officers School and Command and Staff College at Montgomery, Alabama. Thirteen of his 20 years with the USAF were in command positions first as Chief of Security for the 25th Air Division at McChord AFB, and as Chief Security Inspector for Pacific Air Forces at Clark Air Base, the Philippines.

For two years, he worked directly for the Secretary of the Air Force researching locations and security requirements for Air Force satellite tracking stations worldwide. During that time he was also assigned to Air Force Systems Command Headquarters at Andrews Air Force Base. He retired as Commander of the 3284th School Squadron assigned to the 3280th Technical Training Wing at Lackland AFB, San Antonio.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Judith Lynn Wagner Owens and parents John and Blanche Owens. He is survived by his brother Jack Owens, sister Lee Owens Birkey, niece Cheri Ashley, nephew James Sanderson, and several great nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, June 24, 2013, at 2 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, MI. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery, Stockbridge, MI, with full military honors provided by the Mackinder-Glenn American Legion Post 510.

To leave an online message for the family, please click here. In San Antonio, online messages for the family may be entered here.

Barbara-BlotterBarbara Clark Blotter
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 95, passed away Tuesday, June 18, 2013 at the Chelsea Retirement Community where she lived in Chelsea, Michigan. She was born in Wichita, Kansas, lived in Tulsa, Oklahoma and then Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania where she and her husband, Arthur Richard (Dick) Blotter raised their four children.

Barbara worked for North Hills High School and after retirement, she and Dick lived in Florida, Erie, PA, Virginia, and Michigan.They were avid sailors in the Great Lakes and Chesapeake Bay. Recently honored for her 70 years in P.E.O, which provides educational opportunities for women, she started 3 different chapters for the organization. Regardless of the situation, Barbara always had a smile and a kind word for everyone she met.

Barbara is survived by her children, Rick, Carol, Tom and Jim: seven grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

A service will be held at the Chelsea Retirement Community Chapel on Thursday, June 27, 2013 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers,
donations may be sent to the Arbor Hospice Foundation, 2366 Oak Valley Dr., Ann Arbor, MI 48103.

Pfitzenmaier Carl 2Carl Herbert Pfitzenmaier
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 86, died Monday, June 17, 2013 at his home. He was born April 19, 1927 in Lodi Township, the son of Herbert F. and Frieda M. (Hirth) Pfitzenmaier.

Carl was a Charter Member of Our Savior Lutheran Church. A veterinarian, he worked with U.S.D.A. for 32 years. Carl also worked on his Uncle’s dairy farm for 8 years. He was a member of Chelsea Senior Citizens and enjoyed line dancing.

He married Dorothy Joan Sackett in Plymouth, MI on Sept. 5, 1959 and she preceded him in death on Sept. 29, 2008. Other survivors include a daughter, Carla Dawn (Bronson) Ellis of Clinton; a son, Clark Carlton (Kelley) Pfitzenmaier of Manchester; three grandchildren, Christin, Katelynn, and Kayla Pfitzenmaier; a brother, Allan F. (Francine) Pfitzenmaier of Farmington Hills; a niece, Julie Pfitzenmaier – Cotant; and nephews, Eric Pfitzenmaier, and Mark Pfitzenmaier. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 20, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Pastor Brad Gee, of Hope Lutheran Church, officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends Thursday from 10-11 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Arbor Hospice.

Knickerbocker, Brian webBrian Timothy Knickerbocker
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 53, passed away suddenly of natural causes on Thursday, June 13, 2013. He was born on May 22, 1960 in Ann Arbor, MI, the son of Ray E. and Anna Louise (Salyer) Knickerbocker.

Brian was employed at Weber’s Inn for many years. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his mother; his sisters, Terri Alcazar (Bruce Wildey) and Heidi (Ryan) Farris; his brothers, Brad (Tricia) Knickerbocker and Brett Knickerbocker; his nephews: Travis, Carter, Gavin, and Nolan; his nieces: Sarah, Grace, and Sophie; and his loving dog Gulliver. He was preceded in death by his father.

A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, June 17, 2013 at 1 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. James Coyl officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 6-8 p.m. and on Monday from noon until the time of service. Expressions of sympathy may be made in honor of his niece Grace who is the team “hero” for Wish-A-Mile “Team Grace.” (Click here to visit the donation webpage)

Keusch,-John-web1John Philip Keusch
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 103, died on Sunday, June 9, 2013. John was born on Dec. 25, 1909, in Chelsea, Michigan, to Edwin J. Keusch and Ellen “Nell” (Walsh) Keusch. John attended St. Mary’s school, Chelsea, class of 1927. An athlete, John excelled in all sports, and was a member of St. Mary’s 1926 High School Basketball Champion squad, for “Class D” schools. He initially entered Eastern Michigan, with the idea of being an athletic coach, but changed direction and transferred to the University of Michigan. There he took the combined courses from the Literature, Science and Arts College onto the Michigan Law School, receiving his Bachelor of Arts in 1931, and his Law Degree in 1933. He was admitted to the Bar Oct. 10, 1933, at the age of 23.

In the depth of the Great Depression, there were no positions open to young lawyers and John took cases and appointments wherever he could. In 1934, he accepted an appointment as a United States Attorney, Department of the Interior, assigned to the creation of the National Forests and State Recreation Areas. Traveling by train throughout Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota for three years, John obtained tremendous expertise in real estate and public works law. In 1937, John returned to Chelsea where he assumed practice with John P. Kalmbach who founded his office in 1905.

On Oct. 5, 1940, John married Madeleine Lucia Boillore. A daughter, Ellen, was born on Oct. 25, 1941. With the coming of World War II John took a commission as Lieutenant, Judge Advocate, U.S. Navy. He, Madeleine and Ellen then made their home in Evanston, Illinois, where Madeleine provided occasional dinners for fellow judge advocates, including a bachelor attorney-officer from Michigan, Gerald R. Ford.

Keusch,-John-web2Returning to Chelsea in 1945, John’s law practice expanded. He became President of the Washtenaw County Bar in 1961 and was a member of the Federal and Michigan State Bar. John served long tenures as Chelsea City Attorney, Director of the Chelsea State Bank, member of the Chelsea Rod and Gun Club, American Legion Post #31, Chamber of Commerce, U of M Club, Knights of Columbus, Inverness Country Club and Kiwanis. He and Madeleine were faithful members of St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea.

Avid sports fans, John and Madeleine attended some 65 years of U-M football and basketball, including 8 Rose Bowl trips, the Olympics in Mexico City, Montreal and Munich, and more than 30 other U-M overseas trips. John and Madeleine had a huge circle of friends in the community and participated in many functions, even hosting parties through Christmas 2011.

In 1969, Peter C. Flintoft, and in 1998, Patrick J. Conlin, Jr., along with associates Diana R. Newman and Jeffrey D. Alber joined him in the Chelsea law practice. John formally took emeritus status with the Michigan State Bar in 2012, being not only its oldest member but also the Michigan lawyer with the longest tenure of practice.

Keusch,-John-web3Preceding John in death, daughter Ellen Keusch Rowan died Dec. 1, 1997. Wife Madeleine died Jan. 27, 2012 at 104 years of age. John is survived by niece, Mary (George) Condy of Ft. Wayne, Indiana, nephews Robert (Jan) Weber, McCordsville, Indiana, and Edwin (Theresa) Weber, Brighton, Michigan, eight great and ten great great nieces and nephews, and four honorary granddaughters, Anna E. Flintoft, Carrie M. Flintoft, Rebecca J. Flintoft, and Jessica Madeleine Flintoft.

Funeral arrangements are by the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 N. Main St., Chelsea, Michigan 48118. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church, 14200 E. Old US-12, Chelsea, at 11:00 a.m., on Monday, June 24, 2013, with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Burial will take place at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday, June 23, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. with Rosary at 7:30 p.m., and also at church on Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church or to a charity of your choice.

“Stay strong!” ~ J.P. Keusch

O'Neil, Darlene webDarlene O’Neil
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 73, passed away on Friday, June 7, 2013 at her home surrounded by her family. She was born on April 22, 1940 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Dominic and Florence (Behrendt) Morrell.

On Oct. 27, 1958 she married Joseph G. “Mickey” O’Neil in Detroit and he preceded her in death on April 4, 2012. She worked at the D and C store in Chelsea until it closed and also worked many other jobs in the area including the Perky Pantry. She enjoyed reading, crotchet, and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Surviving are her brother, Anthony Morrell of Allen Park; children: Cathy (Randy) Carpenter, Keith (Sabrina) O’Neil, and Kelly (Doug) Paul, all of Chelsea; grandchildren: Michele (Shawn) Proko, Megan (Mark) Taylor, Shaun Carpenter, Amanda O’Neil, Kevin O’Neil, Cara Paul, Brandon Paul, and Adam Paul; great-grandchildren: Amanda, Kylie, Hailey, Dominik, Kaeley, Gabriel, and Kain; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to her husband she was also preceded in death by her sister-in-law Frances Morrell.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, June 14, 2013 at 11 a.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea. The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Private interment will take place at a later date at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family.

Gilbert JacquelynJacquelyn “Jackie” L. Gilbert
Chelsea, MI

Age 59, died Thursday, June 6, 2013 at her home. She was born Aug. 21, 1953 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Jack L. and Eileen J. (Crowley) Housewright.

Jackie graduated from Stockbridge High School, and earned a nursing degree from Jackson Community College. She worked for 18 years at U of M, and was on the original heart transplant team there. She volunteered at Faith in Action. Jackie had a big heart, and loved her grandchildren and dogs.

She is survived by two sons, David & Rachel Kunzelman of Leetonia, OH, Anthony Kunzelman of Monroe; four grandchildren, Matthew, Hailey, Grant, & Emily; and her brother Russell D. Housewright of Chelsea. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Steven Housewright.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, June 12, 2 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Deacon Tom Franklin officiating. The family will receive friends Wednesday noon – 2 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Jon T. Hansen
of Chelsea

Age 68, formerly of Ann Arbor, passed away on June 1, 2013. He was born in Three Rivers, MI on Sept. 3, 1944 to Hans and Ida Mae Hansen.

Jon worked in the HVACR field for over 40 years and taught the same at WCC for nearly 30 years.

He is survived by beloved wife Sandy (Peach), children Christopher and Wayne Hansen, and Todd and Cari Thurkow, grand children Spec. Jon Tyler Hansen stationed with the US Army in Okinawa, Brittany, Mason and Sidney, brothers-in-law Dan Peach (Robin) and John Peach (Pam). He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Dick-JohnJohn Lawrence Dick
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Onsted

Age 95, died Friday, May 31, 2013 at Chelsea Retirement Community. He was born Feb. 21, 1918 in Bristol, PA, the son of Michael & Eva (Piskor) Dick.

John graduated from Bristol High School in Bristol, PA in 1936 where he was a star baseball player for the now defunct Bristol Bunnies. He also played baseball for the Rohm and Haas Company in Bristol. He was a salesman for Detroit Stoker Company, a job that gave him the opportunity to travel extensively around the world.

He was an expert woodworker, and he enjoyed fishing, hunting, clock repair, and traveling around the country with his wife, Betty, after he retired. He was a loving husband and father and excelled at being a grandfather. He was adored by his grandchildren with whom he spent countless happy hours.

In 1940, he married Elizabeth “Betty” Smoyer, and she preceded him in death on Oct. 19, 2010. Survivors include a son, John (Nancy) of Monument, CO; two daughters, Susan (James Pence) Smoyer of Amity, OR, and Elizabeth (Timothy) Polk of Manchester; four grandchildren, James Polk, Anna Polk, Jennifer Wegher, and Stephanie Dick; and his brother, Joseph Dick of NJ. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Raymond and Stanley; four sisters, Mary Krempeke, Kathryn Sedor, Annie Kurko, and Helen Dick. John was also preceded in death by his faithful cat, Pumpkin, who died only two weeks ago. He is survived by his cat, KC, who remains in residence at Chelsea Retirement Community. He also leaves behind his loving adopted family who are the staff at Towsley Village and Chelsea Retirement Community.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 8, 2 p.m. at the Chelsea Retirement Community Main Chapel, with Rev. Cathy Rafferty officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lenawee County Humane Society, 705 W Beecher St. Adrian, MI 49221. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Draper,-Robert-webRobert Andrew Draper
Of Jackson, Michigan

Age 76, passed away on Sunday, May 26, 2013 at his home. He was born on Feb.15, 1937 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Cecil and Edith (Scully) Draper.

Robert had lived in the area since 2000 and was a member of the Federated Church of Grass Lake. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1953 to 1956, being discharged as Seaman. On Feb.14, 1984 he married Jennie A. (Hall) Robbins in Chelsea and she survives. He worked for the University of Michigan as a truck driver and was also a volunteer for the Chelsea Fire Department for 25 years, retiring in 1998. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, going to flea markets, and taking walks on the beach.

Also surviving are his children, Terry (Yvette) Draper of Chelsea, Sherry (Bob) Wiltfong of Kentucky, Linda (Bruce) Geer of Jackson, Ronnie (Tina) Robbins of Michigan Center, Judy (Victor) Dennis of Jackson, and Mary (Martin) Reyes of Texas; 28 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren with one on the way, and two great-great-grandchildren; and his sister, Annajean Graves of Texas, and two half-brothers, David (Minnie) Draper and Jean (Kathy) Draper, both of Ann Arbor. He was preceded in death by two brothers, his twin Richard Draper and James Draper.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, May 31, 2013 at 11 a.m. at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Pastor
Chuck McNeil officiating. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family.

Kenneth Allen Joseph Sr.
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Age 74, died Sunday, May 26, 2013 at Arbor Hospice. He was born June 22, 1938 in Portsmouth, Ohio, the son of John & Stella (Smith) Joseph.

Ken worked at Michigan Seamless Tubing (Now Quanex) in South Lyon for 37 years. He was a member of Pittsfield Senior Citizens. Ken enjoyed model trains, light construction, sports (especially U of M), and parking cars for football games.

He married Sheila Ruth Wineman, and she survives. He is also survived by two sons, Kenneth Allen Joseph Jr. of Campton, KY, Gregory Taylor Joseph of Fort Worth, TX; a daughter, Miranda Jean Rader of Winchester, KY; a step-daughter, Dawn; 8 grandchildren, Christopher, Eric, Rebecca, Greg Jr., Elizabeth, Seth, D.J., Taylor; 3 step-grandchildren, Lauren, Sean, Lindsey; 5 step-great-grandchildren, Sebastian, Malichi, Isla, Lennon, Nolan; and 4 siblings, Bob, Bonnie, Helen, and Norma. He was preceded in death by siblings George, John, Marion, David “Bud”, Genevieve, and Mary.

A graveside service will be held Wednesday, May 29, 10 a.m. at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea with Pastor Steve Yarrow of North Ridge, Saline, officiating. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, May 29, 1 p.m. at First Baptist Church, South
Lyon.

Memorial contributions may be made to Arbor Hospice, 2366 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48103. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

David D. Harat
Of Jackson, formerly of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 52, died Saturday, May 18, 2013. He was born on Dec.3, 1960 in Dearborn, Michigan, the son Henry and Kathyrine (Bresko) Harat. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, working on cars and landscaping.

Surviving are three siblings, Monica (Daniel) Maurer of Grass Lake, Anita (Rodger) Stewart also of Grass Lake, and Linda (Bruce) Dygert of Pleasant Lake; nine nieces and nephews, and eight great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and three brothers, Henry, Donald, and Matthew.

A Memorial Service will be Thursday, May 30, 2013 at 11 a.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home with Rev. Dr. William
J. Turner officiating. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the family. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Thursday from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Nalli, Remegia croppedRemegia (Angelocci) Nalli
Jackson, Michigan

Age 98, died Friday, May 17, 2013 at RidgeCrest in Jackson. She was born Oct. 4, 1914 in Sibley, MI (now Trenton, MI), the daughter of Alexander “Angelo” and Agatha (Cima) Angelocci.

Remegia lived in the down river area most of her adult life, and in Birmingham, Michigan, from 1985 until 2006, when she moved to Chelsea. She moved to Jackson in November 2011. Remegia was a bookkeeper for Hungerford, Cooper, Luxon & Co. in Wyandotte. She was a member St. James Episcopal Church in Birmingham. Remegia graduated from A.E. Smith High School in 1932. She was active in many sports, including Tennis, Basketball, Softball, Bowling, and Golf.

On June 1, 1940, she married Alvin Dietz and he preceded her in death on July 24, 1958 . She then married Anthony Nalli on Jan. 6, 1968 and he preceded her in death on Jan. 22, 1980. Survivors include one daughter, Shiela Dietz of Chicago, Illinois; one granddaughter, Melissa Benham of Chicago; one brother Angelo Angelocci of Chelsea; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Kelly Cottage and Frances Willett, and three brothers, Samuel, Lawrence, and John Angelocci.

A memorial service will be held Friday, June 14, 11 a.m. at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in Chelsea, with Fr. David Glaser officiating. Burial will be at the Memorial Garden at St. James Episcopal Church in Dexter, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

Shepherd_PeggyPeggy Sue (Marshall) Shepherd
of Stockbridge, MI

Age 43, died Sunday, May 12, 2013 at her home. She was born July 2, 1969 in Lansing, Michigan, the daughter of Magaline Marshall Watkins Bedell.

Peggy spent the majority of her life as a stay-at-home-mother to her five children. She loved spending time with her family and friends. She was known for her spunky attitude and goofy personality. She wasn’t afraid to say how she felt and that’s what everyone loved so much about her. She was so honest, caring, and outspoken. She was fun-loving and had a heart of
gold. Peggy also had a strong love for animals, especially dogs. But above all else, Peggy adored her five children. They were her pride and joy.

Survivors include three sons, Tyler Marshall of Louisville, KY, Alex Shepherd of Mount Sterling, KY, Joshua Shepherd of Plano, TX; two daughters, Andrea (Zachariah) Marshall Conley of Ridgecrest, CA, Tamara Shepherd of Morehead, KY; their father and Peggy’s husband of 18 years, Douglas Shepherd;a brother, Robby Watkins; a sister, Patty Watkins (Micky) Dunaway; 2 grandchildren, several nieces & nephews, and her partner of several years, Dan Lovely. She was preceded in death by her mother, Magaline Marshall Watkins Bedell; and her maternal grandparents, Walter & Alta Marshall.

Funeral services will be held Friday, May 17, 1 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea. The family will receive friends Friday 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Albert Logelin
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Al Logelin was born Jan. 17, 1925 in Minneapolis and raised in Winona, MN. He served in the United States Navy during World War II, on a destroyer stationed in the Philippines. He earned his degree in physics from Wabash College in Crawfordsville, IN and the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

Al was a well-known businessman around Ann Arbor, owning and operating audio and electronic shops for over 50 years. He was a long-time member of the Ann Arbor Schwaben (German- American) Club, and most enjoyed times spent at The Old German restaurant where he often prepared early morning breakfasts for Chef Dettling and the kitchen staff. Al enjoyed good times in the company of his many friends, good food and wine, computers and the internet.

He is preceded in death by his very best friends Bud Metzger and Joan Otis, both of Ann Arbor, (and of course, Sammy, his bull dog), and parents, Joseph and Catherine (Widmer) Logelin of Winona; sisters Jeanette Schuh of Rolingstone, MN and Lucille Cichanowski of Winona. He is survived by two brothers, Joe (Helen) Logelin of Ann Arbor and Don (Lois) of La Crosse, WI; two sisters, Kathryn (John) Degnan of La Crosse, WI and Clarice Bidney of Shoreview, MN; along with 23 nieces and nephews, all who mourn his loss.

A memorial gathering will be held at The Grotto, 2070 W. Stadium Blvd. on June 1, from 3-6 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Voluntary Service Office, Main Hospital Building, Room AB-28, 2215 Fuller Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

Quigley, Leonard webLeonard D. Quigley
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 86, passed away on Monday, May 13, 2013 Heartland Health Care Center in Jackson.

He was born on Aug. 12, 1926 in Chelsea, the son of T.B. and Nellie (Price) Quigley. Leonard had lived in the area most of his life and graduated from Chelsea High School. He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the U.S. Army, and was employed at Chrysler Proving Grounds for 33 years. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, managing his properties, masonry work and general contracting, and he wrote several short stories that were published anonymously.

On Aug.23, 2003 he married Janet E. (Peterson) Stull, and she survives. Also surviving are five children: Robin (Charles) Dixon, David (Jenny) Quigley, Robert (Pam) Peterson, Mary Stull, and James (Rebecca) Stull, all of Jackson, 13 grandchildren, and 10.5 great-grandchildren. He was the last of 12 brothers and sisters. He was also preceded in death by his first wife, Ardis Quigley, and his second wife, Betty Messman.

A Gathering of Friends and Family will be held on Saturday, May 18, 2013 from 10 a.m. until noon at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Heartland Hospice of Mason. Private burial will take place at Vermont Cemetery, Chelsea.

Jones DonaldDonald Earl Jones
Whitmore Lake, MI

Age 85, died Friday, May 10, 2013 at the Residence of Arbor Hospice. He was born May 14, 1927 in Lincoln, Nebraska, the son of Paul W. & Gwendolyn (Baldwin) Jones. Don was a proud Marine Corps Veteran and Ford Motor Company retiree.

On Aug. 7, 1949, he married Eva Louise Hall in Lincoln, Nebraska, and she survives.Other survivors include two daughters, Deborah (Carey) Strykowski of Zeeland, Carol (Timothy) Carr of Dexter, 6 grandchildren; and 9 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 14, 11 a.m. at Dexter Gospel Church, with Rev. John O’Dell officiating. Burial will follow at Bethlehem Cemetery in Ann Arbor.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Monday, May 13, from 4-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Dexter Gospel Church Building Fund.

Newsted, Donald webDonald L. Newsted
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 80, passed away Sunday, May 5, 2013 in Ann Arbor. He was born Oct. 24, 1932 in Detroit, MI, the son of Jack and Beatrice Newsted.

He resided in Chelsea, MI. Don retired from the Ann Arbor Public Schools in 1986 after almost 30 years of teaching Math at the high school level for Pioneer and Huron High Schools.Don received his undergraduate degree from Central Michigan University and a Master’s degree from the University of Michigan.He introduced computers to the Ann Arbor Public Schools.

He was former President of the Ann Arbor Teacher’s Association. While at Huron High School he was a department chair of Mathematics for 5 years. Don invented many math teaching and learning aids and founded Lano Company to sell them nationwide. Don participated in sports and played in several men’s golf leagues, bowling league, and the faculty softball team. He was avid golfer that loved to travel over many continents with his wife, playing golf. They also shared a passion for antiquing.

He is survived by his wife, Margaret, who he married on June 11, 1954, and his three children: Don (Beth) Newsted, Kathryn (Tony) Nelson, and Gary Newsted. He has five grandchildren: Tricia (Jeff) Carter, Adam (Brynn) Newsted, Lauren Newsted, Aaron Newsted, Shelby Newsted, and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Marvin, and grandson Nick.

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, May 10, 2013 at 2 p.m. at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Robert J. Freysinger officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea.The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

Lawrence “Larry” N. Lup
Ann Arbor, MI

Age 77, died Sunday, April 28, 2013 at Arbor Hospice.He was born July 25, 1935 in Highland Park, Michigan, the son of Nicholas S. & Elva “Pat” V. (Strong) Lup.

Larry graduated from Hope College, the University of Michigan, and the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. Larry has practiced dentistry in Ann Arbor since 1966.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A Memorial Mass will be held Friday, May 17, 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. A private burial will be at Holy Cross Cemetery in Detroit.

Memorial contributions may be made to Food Gatherers, P.O. Box 7971, Ann Arbor, MI 48107-7971 or Arbor Hospice, 2366 Oak Valley Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48103-8944. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Risdon-Thomas-2Thomas Joseph Risdon
Dexter, MI

Age 73, died peacefully at his home after a long battle with lung cancer and leukemia, on Tuesday, April 30, 2013. He was born Sept. 22, 1939 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Walter Joseph & Mary Virginia (Hitchcock) Risdon.

Tom graduated from Cooley High School in Detroit in 1957, and earned a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Detroit in 1962. He worked summers delivering laundry for his family’s business in downtown Detroit, and started working for Climax Molybdenum Co. in 1963. He founded Solid Lubricants Solutions consulting company in 2000. Tom was a world renowned expert in the field of solid lubricants, and wrote & presented numerous papers on the subject area of greases and molybdenum disulfide containing greases. He was a member of Society of Automotive Engineers, Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (Fellows Award), National Lubricating Grease Institute (Fellows Award & served 3 years on the Board of Directors). Tom was a faithful member of Faith Ev. Lutheran Church since 1979, serving on the church council as Secretary, President, and Elder and sang in the church choir. He also was a faithful attendee of Dexter Community Band concerts from their beginning, watching his wife play trumpet.

On May 5, 1979, he married Phyllis Jedele, and they moved into their current home in Dexter. Other survivors include his two children, Dan (Sara) of Roseville, CA, Lori of Ellicott City, MD; brother- and sisters-in-law, James & Nancy Jedele, Carol Tunningley; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his twin brother, Richard W. Risdon.

His children were the joy of his life. He was proud of Dan’s graduation from Kettering University, and Lori’s graduation from the US Air Force Academy. He was blessed by Dan & Sara’s wedding and was anticipating the birth of his first grandchild due in September.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 4, 5 p.m. at Faith Evangelical Lutheran Church, Dexter, with Rev. Mark Porinsky officiating. Burial will be Monday at Lodi Cemetery, Saline.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Friday 3-5 & 7-9 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Ev. Lutheran Church or St. Joseph Cancer Care Center.

Hopkins, Sola webSola B. Hopkins
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 97, passed away on Tuesday, April 30, 2013 at her home surrounded by her family.

She was born on June 23, 1915 in Swampton, Kentucky, the daughter of Farmer and Emma (Salyer) Holiday. On Dec. 20, 1934 she married Malcolm Bruce Hopkins and he preceded her in death on March 17, 1996. Sola had lived in the area since 1942, coming from West Virginia, and was a member of North Sharon Baptist Church in Grass Lake.She enjoyed crochet, knitting, quilting, canning, and cooking for her family.

Surviving are her children: Silas K. Hopkins of Chelsea, Karen F. Lentz of Chelsea, and Coyne Holiday of Dexter; four grandchildren: Kenneth S. Hopkins, Kim T. (Wes) Treaster, Lynette D. Mepyans, and Kristi (Michael) Moody; three great-grandchildren: Lindsey Hopkins, Maegen Hopkins, and Haleigh Mepyans; and extended family members Sharon Hopkins of Fowlerville and James (Madelyn) Craft of Chelsea. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Paul Hopkins in 1957, and 11 siblings.

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, May 3, 2013 at 11 a.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Pastor Bobby Toler officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to North Sharon Baptist Church or the Arbor Hospice Foundation.

Rooke_NellNell Louise Rooke
Chelsea, MI

Age 83, died Thursday, April 25, 2013 in Chelsea, Michigan. She was born Nov. 26, 1929 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Hubbard Hoyt & Virginia (Bennett) Moore.

She resided in Chelsea since November of 1952. Nell was a member of Chelsea First United Methodist Church, where she had also served as church secretary for many years. She was also a secretary at Webster United Church of Christ. Nell was a beloved mother and grandmother. She enjoyed life, independence, reading, and group Bible studies with friends.

She married William Nelson Rooke in Detroit on June 25, 1949, and he preceded her in death on Oct. 8, 1991. Survivors include a son, James (Rosse Marie) of Florida; one daughter, Debby Cicchella of Kansas; two grandsons, Bryan & Ethan Rooke. She was preceded in death by two sons, Glen in 2001 and David in 2002.

A Memorial Service will be held Thursday, May 9, 2013, at Noon, at the First United Methodist Church, 128 Park Street, Chelsea. A private burial will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Schlegelmilch_BruceBruce Kevin Schlegelmilch
Jackson, Michigan

Age 52, passed away peacefully with his family present on Saturday, April 27, 2013 at U of M Hospital.He was born Jan. 14, 1961 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Ralph Bernard & Barbara Jean (Green) Schlegelmilch.

Bruce graduated from Huron High School in 1979. He worked at Thompson Shore in Dexter and Sheridan Books in Chelsea. Bruce was an active volunteer with Boy Scouts.

Survivors include his parents of Dexter; his son, Dylan Seeger of Michigan Center, and Dylan’s mother, Debbie Ledwedge; his siblings, June Schlegelmilch of Tom’s River, NJ, Tom Schlegelmilch of Ypsilanti, Ron (Bev) Schlegelmilch of Chelsea, Renee (Keith) Hafner of Ann Arbor, Kathy Schlegelmilch of Saline, Kris (Bill) McCarthy of Charlotte, NC; several nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Timothy, and his grandparents.

To celebrate Bruce’s life, the family will receive friends Thursday, May 2, 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to his son’s college fund.

Koch Michael 2Michael Jennings Koch
Brooklyn, MI, formerly of Dexter

Age 48, died Monday, April 22, 2013 due to an accident in Dexter. He was born May 25, 1964 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Paul C. & Rosemary (Birchmeier) Koch.

Mike graduated from Dexter High School in 1982. He was a member of Local 190. He could fix or build anything. Mike spent all of his free time with his wife and kids. He enjoyed golfing and riding his bike, and loved to fix cars.

On March 26, 1988, he married Susan Bell in Pinckney, and she survives. Other survivors include his mother of Dexter; three daughters, Katherine (Ian) Parish of Brooklyn, Elizabeth (Joshua) Clemet of Washington, Melissa Koch of Brooklyn; one son, Dylan Koch of Brooklyn; three brothers, Christian, Paul (Anne), and Daniel (Caitlin) Koch; one granddaughter, Natalie Clemet; sisters/brothers-in-law, Linda Fenlon of Cheboygan, Roger (Ginger) Fenlon of Salida, CO, Gail Robillard of Litchfield, Cheryl (Don) Spies of Cheboygan, Cathy Bell of Bend, OR; and several wonderful nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his father, a sister, Julie Koch, and loving in-laws, James & Theresa Bell.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 27, 1 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Rev. Kerry Snyder officiating. The family will receive friends Friday 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the family for his children’s college funds.

Delano,-Glendora-Pennie-webGlendora L. “Pennie” Delano
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 64, passed away on Sunday, April 21, 2013 at her home surrounded by her family.

She was born on Nov.27, 1948 in Meadville, Pennsylvania.She had lived in the area since 1983, coming from California.
She married Clarence T. Delano on Jan. 28, 1984 in Jackson, MI, and he survives.

Pennie enjoyed sewing, crafts, making jewelry, and spending time with her grandchildren. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children, Tina (Randy) Dale and Ronald (Elizabeth) Stacy, Jr., both of Chelsea, and five grandchildren: R.J., Paige, Corrine, Ty, and Cal. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Ronald G. Stacy, Sr. in 1983.

A private family service will be held at later date. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Arbor Hospice Foundation. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

 

Pyle,-Robert-photoRobert W. Pyle
Of Manchester, Michigan

Age 54, passed away Friday, April 19, 2013, at the University of Michigan Hospital. He was born on Dec. 27, 1958, in Ypsilanti, Michigan, the son of Thomas and Beverly (Hoekstra) Pyle.

Robert had lived in the area since he was nine years old. He graduated from Manchester High School in 1977 and worked for the Washtenaw County Road Commission for 27 years, retiring in 2005. To all he was known as Mr. International, and at age 14 he received first place at the Autumn Harvest Festival Tractor Pull at Henry Ford Greenfield Village. His passion was traveling the United States Tractor Pulling, and being a member of Michigan Tractors Pulling Association.

On Oct. 26, 1996, he married Janet Lynn Schenk and she survives; also surviving are his parents of Belleville, five children, Thomas (Amy) Pyle of Manchester, Julie Shopshear of OK, Timothy (Barbie) Pyle of SC, Suzanne Pyle age 14 and Carl Pyle age 12, both of Manchester; one sister, Bonnie (Ted) Kowalski of Pittsfield Twp., five grandchildren and four nieces and two nephews. He was preceded in death by grandparents, Frederick (Gertrude) Hoekstra and Abe (Irene) Pyle, also father-in-law Albert Schenk.

Funeral services will be Wednesday April 24, 2013, at 11 a.m. from Zion Lutheran Church, Chelsea. Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Freedom Township. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Suzanne and Carl’s educational fund. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Monday from 6-8 p.m. and Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

 

Smith_Julia1Julia Ann Smith
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Lake Leelanau and Muskegon

Age 79, died of pulmonary fibrosis on Wednesday, April 17, 2013 under the wonderful care of the staff at the Arbor Hospice Residence. She was born Oct. 30, 1933 in Muskegon, Michigan, the daughter of Abraham S. & Dorothy M. (Edick) St. Amand.

Julia was very active in the Greek Orthodox Church in Muskegon. She was politically active, and worked many elections in Cedar, MI. Julia loved music. She was the first female drummer in the Muskegon High School Band. She also loved boating, fishing, reading and ceramics. Julia was a very loving grandmother.

She married John J. Courtis on Jan. 25, 1959, and he preceded her in death on May 6, 1974. She married Chuck Smith on Feb. 12, 1977, and he survives. Other survivors include a son, John (Brenda) Courtis of Cedar, MI; two daughters, Francine (Timothy) Egeler of Dexter, Marina (Bill) Kaufman of Dexter; 5 grandchildren, Katy, Jacob, Julia, Madelyn, Zachary; 4 step-grandchildren, Danielle, Nicole, Dayna, Brandon; and 4 step-children, Debbie, Katherine, Sharon, Charles Jr., and their children and grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held Monday, April 22, 11:00 am at Silver Maples with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation or Arbor Hospice. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Stanfield,-Bill-webKenneth “Bill” Stanfield
Of Chelsea, formerly Stockbridge, Michigan

Age 100, passed away on Wednesday, April 17, 2013 at Silver Maples Retirement Community in Chelsea. He was born on Sept. 14, 1912 in Stockbridge, MI, the son of Oland and Clara (Neithammer) Stanfield. He had lived in the area all of his life and was a 1932 graduate of Stockbridge High School.

Bill was co-owner of Stanfield Brothers Grocery Store in Stockbridge for 33 years, retiring in 1969, and was a member of Stockbridge United Methodist Church for over 75 years. He enjoyed gardening, garage sales, senior dinners at the town hall, hunting, and fishing, and was also a member of the Stockbridge Lions Club and the Stockbridge Masonic Lodge.

On Nov. 23, 1935, he married Doris E. (Walz) and she preceded him in death on Jan. 28, 2012. Surviving are three daughters: Barb (Wayne) Malcho of Dansville, Beverly Basore of Stockbridge, and Delores Buege of Ann Arbor; seven grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren; and his brother, Neil Stanfield of Napoleon. He was also preceded in death by two sons-in-law, Bob Basore and Lynn Buege, and two brothers, Maynard “Tom” Stanfield and David Stanfield.

A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, April 22, 2013 at 1 p.m. at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge, with Rev. Robert J. Freysinger and Rev. Kathy Schell co-officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery, Stockbridge. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Stockbridge United Methodist Church or the Arbor Hospice Foundation. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 3-7 p.m. with Masonic service at 6:30 p.m.

 

Koch, Carl webCarl F. Koch
Of Dexter, Michigan

Age 80, passed away on Tuesday, April 16, 2013 at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor.

He was born on Feb. 12, 1933 in Chelsea, MI, the son of George and Louise (Haarer) Koch. Carl had lived in Washtenaw County all of his life and was a life member of St. John’s United Church of Christ in Chelsea. He enjoyed hunting when he was younger, tinkering, gardening, and was a rug binder for years. He was a former police officer for Chelsea, Ann Arbor, and Washtenaw County, and then retired from Merkel’s Furniture Store in 2004 after over 30 years. He had also been involved with the Cemetery Board for Mount Hope Cemetery in Freedom Township.

Surviving are his children: Susan Koch of Dexter, Nancy (David) Broxholm of Pinckney, Gary (Debra) Koch of Dexter, Amy (Brett) Bishop of Nebraska, Michael (Trisha) Koch of Dexter, and daughter-in-law LuAnn Koch (widow of Brian) of Chelsea. His children’s mother is Janice L. Ano (Mannlein). He is also survived by 14 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and his brother Norman (Barb) Koch of Ann Arbor. In addition to his son, Brian, he was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Koch.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, April 20, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s United Church of Christ, Chelsea, with Pastor Lynn Finkbeiner officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery, Freedom Twp. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Friday from 3-7 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. John’s United Church of Christ, 12376 Waters Road, Chelsea, MI 48118.

LeFurge, Russell croppedRussell D. “Rusty” LeFurge
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 64, died peacefully Monday, April 15, 2013 at his home. He was born July 12, 1948 in Tecumseh, MI, the son of Donald I. and Violet A. (Haight) LeFurge.

Rusty graduated from Pioneer High School. He was a US Army Veteran, serving in Vietnam. Rusty was a union carpenter in Lansing and Detroit. He was an antique collector, who especially enjoyed Massey-Harris tractors, farm equipment, his ’69 Chevy C-10 and 1982 Harley-Davidson Motorcycle. He enjoyed NASCAR, gardening, farming and riding mules. Rusty was a member of St. Paul United Church of Christ.

On May 16, 1970, he married Kay E. Buss at St. Paul United Church of Christ. Other survivors include a son, Eric (Amy) LeFurge of Jacksonville, NC, a daughter, Melissa LeFurge of Sacramento, CA; 2 grandchildren, Andrew and Elizabeth LeFurge; his siblings, Donna (Richard) Spears, Dale LeFurge and Rita Morgan all of Ann Arbor; also many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 18, 11 a.m at St. Paul United Church of Christ, Chelsea, with Pastor Jim Coyl officiating. Burial will follow at Zion Lutheran Cemetery. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Wednesday 3-5 and 7-9 p.m. and at the church Thursday 10-11a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or St. Paul United Church of Christ.

Johnston, Edna web2Edna A. Johnson
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 84, passed away on Sunday, April 14, 2013 at her home surrounded by her family.

She was born on Feb. 2, 1929, in Hudson, MI, the daughter of George H. and Lily Fern (Frisbee) Snyder. She married Roy W. Johnston in October 1948 and he preceded her in death in December 1993.

EJ had lived in the area for the past 17 years, coming from Northville, and was a member of St. Paul United Church of Christ. She was also an artist, interior decorator, horse enthusiast, a patron of the Chelsea District Library, and enjoyed antiques and traveling.

Surviving are her children: Kay (Bruce) Johnston-McClurg of AuGres, MI, Kenneth (Marsha) Johnston of Lewistown, MT, and Kirk (Nancy) Johnston of Vanderbilt, MI, granddaughter Corrine, and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, and four sisters.

Private services and interment will take place at later date. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Chelsea District Library or the Chelsea Community Hospital Cancer Center. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Bieske,-Christopher-webChristopher Carl Bieske
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 49, died in Tecumseh, MI on April 12, 2013. He was born the son of Daniel Carl Bieske and Susan (Hultz) Luther on July 8, 1963 in Elyria, OH.

Chris was an avid outdoorsman and he loved to hunt and fish. He enjoyed writing and cooking especially cheesecake and wild game. The outdoors was where he was most comfortable and turned his passion into a Taxidermy business.

In addition to his mother and father, he is survived by his children Amanda Celia Bieske of Reno, NV, Hollie Nicole Bieske of Grass Lake, MI, and Hunter Christin Danielle Bieske of Tecumseh, and grandson Raiden Layne Going of Reno, NV. Also surviving are his siblings Susan (Andy) Steele of Elyria, OH, Carl A. (Sandra) Bieske of Tecumseh, and Carrie (Keith) Neibauer of Grass Lake, as well as his step mother Paula Bieske, and stepfather Lawrence Luther, along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. Chris was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Gerald and Margret Hultz, paternal grandparents Carl A. and Jean Bieske, one nephew Tyler C. Hallauer and his best friend Cliff Williams.

A Memorial Service will take place on Wednesday, April 17, 2013, at 11a.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, MI. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family.

William S. Yukich
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 92, passed away at the Chelsea Retirement Community on Sunday, April 14, 2013. He was known as a quiet soul that enjoyed the peace and quiet of his home. William proudly served his country in the North African Theater in the United States Army during World War II.

He is survived by his daughter, Sharon M. Galardi of Brighton, and grandchildren Coby Cubic of Denver, CO, Tony Galardi of Denver, CO, and Andy (Jennifer) Galardi of Grand Rapids and their son Luca. Also surviving is his sister, Madeline Anderson of Chicago, IL, and former spouse and close friend, Helen Yukich of Jackson. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister.

A private burial and service will take place at a later date. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Rosalyn Shari Wolff Skidmore
May 21, 1951 ~ April 13, 2013

Rosalyn Shari Wolff Skidmore was truly an amazing woman who finally succumbed to the cancer that she so valiantly fought.

She was born to Russell and Delores Mahrle Wolff in Jackson, Michigan on May 21, 1951. She was raised and went to school in Manchester, Michigan. She attended Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. She lived and worked in Orem, Utah, and later moved to California for several years. Later she moved back to Michigan, and married Ronald Roy Skidmore July 26, 1996 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Temple in Chicago, Illinois.

Rosalyn’s love for her family and wide circle of friends will be sorely missed. They will all remember her for her unconditional love, and her unwavering strong faith. She was an incredibly strong woman, and was an inspiration to all that knew her.
Rosalyn loved life and enjoyed many things such as snow skiing, dancing, swimming, boating, gardening with her mother, going to the flea market in Shipshewana, and the Jackson Fair. She was a master at painting the interior and exterior of people’s homes. She enjoyed the challenge of rehabbing homes. Her latest desire was learning the art of interior design. She was attending Lawrence Tech University, and her latest accomplishment was designing a Cancer Center.

She was preceded in death by her father Russell Emanuel Wolff, and her husband Ronald Skidmore. She is survived by her mother Delores Wolff, her sister Markeita Wolff, her brother Delruss Wolff (Rhonda). She also has one niece Tamar Murphy (Kevin), and two nephews Seth Wolff and Joshua Wolff (Shelby). She is survived by three grandnieces Noelle and Eva Murphy and Ellie Wolff.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, April 16, at 11 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1330 Freer Rd., Chelsea, MI 48118. The viewing will be held on Monday, April 15, from 4-8 p.m. at the church and also one hour before the funeral. Expressions of Sympathy may be made to the family. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

 

Hawker, Elaine webElaine Rosamond Hawker

Elaine Rosamond Hawker was born on April 27, 1912 in Laingsburg, Michigan the daughter of Earl and Mabel (Stone) Finch. She passed away quietly on March 16, 2013, at her home in Chelsea Retirement Community with loving family members by her side.

Elaine graduated from Lincoln High School in 1930 and then attended Michigan State Normal College in Ypsilanti. In 1932 she married Neil Leonard Hawker and began her teaching career. She taught in the school districts of Flint, Romulus and Taylor during which time she furthered her own education by attending U of M. and graduating with a Masters of Education in Administration. Elaine spent 15 years in the Taylor school district in which she taught elementary school and also became the Director of Special Education. She then moved to the district of Oak Park where she was a principal and retired from after 13 years.

Elaine and Neil had two sons, Larry N. Hawker and Lynn Hawker, both of which have preceded her in death. Elaine was also preceded in death by her loving husband Neil, her parents, two sisters, daughter-in-law Antoinette (Passafiume) Hawker and many close friends.
Elaine is survived by her six grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren: Lori (Robert) Mitchell, Michael (Kati Dakin) Mitchell, Stephanie Mitchell, Tracy Santure, Jacob Santure, Jenna Santure, Jessica Santure, Steven (Christine) Hawker, Kelsey Hawker, Alyssa Hawker, Gail (Fred) Greal, Nicole Greal, Justin Greal, Kelly (Thomas) Hickey, Tommy Hickey, Megan Hickey and Matthew (Anna) Hawker.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 20, 2013 at 11 a.m. at the main chapel at the Chelsea Retirement Community with Rev. Cathy Rafferty officiating. Memorial contributions can be made in Elaine’s honor to Arbor Hospice or the American Heart Association. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

 

Fehr ArthurArthur O. Fehr
Manchester, Michigan

Age 95, died Wednesday, April 10, 2013 at his home. He was born March 26, 1918 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Arthur H. and Jennie B. (Osborne) Fehr.

Arthur was a hard working dairy farmer for over thirty years. He loved his animals and was honored as Farmer of the Week from WPAG, Ann Arbor. He was a member of the Washtenaw County Farm Bureau and the Sharon United Methodist Church.

He married Gertrude A. Huesman on Oct. 11, 1941 and she survives. They celebrated 71 years together. Also surviving is a daughter, Joan (Will Wright) Schindler; and a grandson, Patrick Schindler, all of Ann Arbor. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Harold.

Funeral services will be held Monday, April 15, 11 a.m. at Sharon United Methodist Church with Pastor Peter Harris officiating. A private burial will be held at Oak Grove Cemetery, Manchester. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Sunday 2-4 p.m. and at the church Monday 10-11 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Sharon United Methodist Church or the Manchester Fire Department.

 

Woodfruff, Connie web2Connie A. Woodruff
Chelsea, MI

Age 53, passed away Monday, April 8, 2013 at home after a courageous fight with cancer, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born June 13, 1959 in Saginaw, MI, to Fred and Patricia (Schnepf) Birnbaum. On Aug. 7, 1982, she married Christopher Woodruff in Saginaw and he survives. Connie was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dexter and was a realtor in the Ann Arbor area for over twenty years. Connie lived life to the fullest and was a loving wife, mother, and friend to all. She was kind hearted, wrapped with energy and capable of lighting up a room with laughter.

In addition to her devoted husband Chris of 30 years, she is survived by a daughter, Emily of Lansing, a son, Lee (Amanda) of Baltimore, MD; mother, Patricia (Dick) Redifer of Freeland, MI; father, Fred (Jan) Birnbaum of Linwood, MI; one sister, Beth (Dave) Blank of Saginaw, two brothers, Mark (Suzanne) Birnbaum of Linwood and Steve (Jennifer) Birnbaum of Freeland; several nieces and nephews and her adorable sidekick, Lucy.

Visitation will be held at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea on Thursday from 2-8 p.m. where a vigil will be held at 7 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be prayed at the new St. Joseph Church, 6805 Mast Rd., Dexter, 11 a.m. Friday, April 12, 2013 (visitation at 10 a.m.) with Fr. Brendan Walsh officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea. Contributions in her memory may be made to Arbor Hospice or St. Joseph Catholic Church. Please sign her guest book at www.ochalekstark.com.

 

 

Connell, Mildred webMildred L. Connell
Of Jackson, formerly Chelsea, Michigan

Age 99, passed away on Friday, April 5, 2013 at Heartland Health Care Center in Jackson.

She was born on Nov. 3, 1913 in Detroit, MI, the daughter of Clyde and Pearl (Neff) Trombley. She loved to play the piano, crossword puzzles, travel, cook, be the neighborhood doctor and nurse, and plan their family parties.

Surviving are three children: Clyde (April) Connell of Ann Arbor, Doug (Patricia) Connell and Bruce (Amy) Connell, all of Chelsea; three sisters: Florence of Milford, June of Livonia, and Thelma of Clinton; nine grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and one great-grandchild; and also many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Hector Connell; two brothers, Ray and Robert Trombley; one sister, Gladys Gaddey; one grandson, Michael Connell; and one great-grandson, Josh McCalla.

A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, April 10, 2013 at 3 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Cathy Freeman officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy can be made to Heartland Hospice. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 2 p.m. until the time of service.

 

Ruhlig, Madonna croppedMadonna Helen Ruhlig
Dexter, MI

Age 89, died Friday, April 5, 2013 at Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born June 4, 1923 in Monroe, Michigan, the daughter of Paul A. and Minnie C. (Muehleisen) Guhl.

Madonna was employed at Monroe State Savings Bank from 1940 to 1948. She was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church of Chelsea, where she was a past Sunday School Teacher and Junior Bible Class Leader. Madonna was a member of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League since 1952 and served as Michigan President, Treasurer, and Parliamentarian. She served on several Boards and Committees of the Synodical and Michigan District Lutheran Church. Madonna was a member of the Board of Regents of Concordia College, Ann Arbor, from 1982 to 1991, and served as Vice-President and President of the Board. She was the recipient of the Christus Primus Award from Concordia College (now Concordia University) in 1975. She had previously been active in Farm Bureau Women, Washtenaw Women’s Extension, and the Republican County Committee. She was a member of the Dexter Antiquarians. Madonna enjoyed genealogy and was the family historian.

On April 17, 1948, she married Albert F. Ruhlig at Trinity Lutheran Church in Monroe, Michigan, and he survives. Other survivors include three sons, Mark (Marcia)Ruhlig of Sharpsville, IN, John Ruhlig of Chelsea, and David (Lori) Ruhlig of Dexter; eight grandchildren, David (Kristen), Clare, Aaron, Betsy, Brian, and Scott Ruhlig, Roman (Mila) Kisz and Kasie (Ryan) Cousino; two great-grandchildren, Hunter Ruhlig and Avery Cousino; a sister, Marian (Harold) McConnell of Monroe; many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, April 16, 11 a.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church, Chelsea, with Rev. Dale Grimm officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel, Sunday 12:30-6 p.m. and at the church Tuesday 10-11 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Lutheran Women’s Missionary League or Our Savior Lutheran Church.

 

Craft-Paul-3Paul J. Craft
Whitmore Lake, MI

Age 69, died unexpectedly on Saturday, March 30, 2013 at University of Michigan Hospital. He was born July 15, 1943 in Carey, Ohio, the son of Carl & Mary (Montgomery) Craft.

Paul graduated from Manchester High School, class of 1965. He worked for Craft Appliance as an appliance technician since he was a teenager. Paul was a volunteer fireman for Whitmore Lake. He loved fishing, roller skating, dancing and playing cards.

Survivors include a son, Steve (Sonia) Craft of Nottingham, VT; a brother, Frealin (Mary Ellen) Craft of Manchester; two sisters, Josephine (Harold) Murphy of Brighton, Letha Atkinson of Chelsea; several grandchildren; and many nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by a son, Paul A. Craft; two wives, Cheri Mitchell and Cathy Florida; a brother, JW Craft, a brother-in-law, Warren B. Atkinson, and his parents.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 4, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with burial following at Rowe’s Corners Cemetery, Manchester. Visitation will be Wednesday, 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the family for funeral expenses.

 

 

Donovan, Francis obit webFrancis L. Donovan
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 80, passed away on Friday, March 29, 2013 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor.

He was born on Nov. 2, 1932 in Grass Lake, Michigan, the son of James and Lottie (Haas) Donovan. Francis had worked for the University of Michigan Hospital for 35 years, retiring in 1993. He was a life member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea. He was a veteran of the Korean War, serving in the United States Army, and being discharged in November of 1954. He was a jack of all trades, loved music and history, and was also a member of the Sons of the American Revolution.

On June 14, 1958, he married Constance Cassort in New York, and she preceded him in death in January of 2001. Surviving are one son, Brian (Kimberly) Donovan of Whitmore Lake; three sisters: Doris Gaynor of California, LaVonda Cameron of Wisconsin, and Charlotte DeBoe of Grass Lake; three grandchildren: Sean, Grace, and Maeve; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by an infant daughter, Ellen, and two brothers, Lyle and Ralph Donovan.

Mass will be at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 4, 2013, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Parkinson Foundation or St. Mary Catholic Church. Visitation will be at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Wednesday from 2-8 p.m. with Rosary at 7:30 p.m.

 

 

Howard, Kelly webKelly Renee Howard
Of Dexter Township, Michigan

Age 37, passed away on Tuesday, March 26, 2013 at her home.

She was born on April 7, 1975 in Royal Oak, Michigan, the daughter of Douglas and Shirley (Brzezinski) Brown, Jr.

She had lived in the area all of her life and graduated from Chelsea High School in 1993. She was also a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, and thoroughly enjoyed shopping, fashion, decorating, and cooking.

On Nov. 27, 1999, she married M. Eric Howard in Whitmore Lake, and he survives. Also surviving are her parents of Chelsea; one daughter, Taylor Nicole Howard (age 11); brother, Daniel Brown of Belleville; two sisters, Nikole (Kevin) Laube of Rochester Hills and Colleen (Daryl) Lohrer of Commerce Twp.; grandmother, Mary (Judson) Beckwith of Livonia; two aunts, one uncle, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Richard and Helen Brzezinski, and paternal grandfather, Douglas Brown Sr.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, March 30, 2013 at 10 a.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery, Dexter. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Taylor Howard’s education fund. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. with Vigil Service at 7:30 p.m.

 

Staffan, Kathryn webKathryn A. Staffan

Kathryn A. Staffan, a life-long resident of Chelsea, MI, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday, March 19, 2013 at the age of 101 at the Bay Bluffs Emmet County Medical Care Facility in Harbor Springs, MI.

Kathryn was born on Jan. 2, 1912, to A.G. and Agnes (Farrell) Hindelang. Kathryn graduated from Chelsea High School in 1929 and received her Bachelor’s Degree from Eastern Michigan University. On Nov. 28, 1932, she married George L. Staffan who preceded her in death in January 2007.

She worked by her husband’s side at the Staffan Funeral Home and taught school for 35 years, retiring from Jackson City Schools in 1970. She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea and the Ladies of St. Mary, serving on many committees when it was St. Mary’s Altar Society. She was a former member of the Child Study Club and served many years as a volunteer at the Chelsea Community Hospital. She was a life-member of both the Michigan and National Education Associations.

Kathryn is survived by her son, George A. Staffan; sister, Gertrude Hindelang; sisters-in-law, Katherine Wagner and Dorothy Hindelang; daughter-in-law, Joanne Ingles; granddaughters: Susan Staffan, Kristin (Paul) Rossi, and Andrea (Christopher) Dolinsky; great-grandchildren: Forrest, Anders, and Everett Lundgren, Lucia and Jack Rossi, and Wyatt and Samuel Dolinsky; many nieces and nephews including Frederick “Fritz” (Margaret) Wagner, John Wagner, Nancy Mae Whitmire, Patricia (Frank) Woods, and Charlene (Richard) Schoeder; many cousins, including John Keusch; and special friend, Josephine Bennett. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; three siblings: Victor Hindelang, Noreene Paton, and Helen Stoinski; niece, Stephanie “Sis” Kanten; and cousin, Madeleine Keusch.

Mass will be celebrated on Monday, March 25, 2013 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church or Chelsea Community Hospital. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

 

Donald R. Young
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 84, died peacefully Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2013 at the Evangelical Home in Saline. He was born Dec. 8, 1928 in Edon, Ohio, the son of Earl L. & Clara H. (Walz) Young.

Don graduated from Edon High School in 1946. He served in the Air Force during the Korean War. Don earned his Bachelors in Business Administration and a Bachelors in Education from Bowling Green State University. He went on to earn his Master’s in Education from Bowling Green, and did additional work at DePauw University in Greencastle, IN. Don was a teacher for 33 years, most recently at Beach Middle School, retiring in 1991. He worked on numerous school committees and projects, and was an active member and Vice President of MESSA. Don belonged to Zion Lutheran Church

On Dec. 24, 1950, he married Betty E. Foust, and she survives. Other survivors include a daughter, Pat (Stanley) Parr of Manchester; two sons, John “Randy” Young of Chelsea, Thomas (Joan) Young of Canton, OH; two sisters, Donna Stickney and Gloria (Willie) Anderson; 4 grandchildren, Emily (Jeff) McHale, Zachary (Jenna) Young, Stephanie and Nicholas Young; one great-granddaughter, Aranka McHale. He was preceded in death by a brother, Lloyd, and a sister, Mary Jane Sinclair.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 2, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Rev. Stanley J. Eckermann officiating. Burial will follow at Zion Lutheran Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends Friday, 3-5 & 6-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church or Parkinson Foundation.

 

Marjorie Ellen Rosentreter
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Age 77, died suddenly Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2013 at her home in Ann Arbor. She was born March 31, 1935 in Howell, the daughter of James “Frank” & Thelma (Hecox) Burke.

Marjorie was a graduate of Ann Arbor High School. She retired as a phlebotomist after 27 years, from St. Joseph Hospital. Marjorie loved animals, enjoyed playing cards, bowling and was an avid Longaberger Basket collector. She loved to visit with family and friends. Marjorie was extremely proud of her grandsons, and great granddaughter.

Survivors include two children, Randy (Janet) Rosentreter of Chelsea, and Cindy (Bill) Seets of Clinton; their father Albert Rosentreter of Chelsea; 3 grandsons, Joel (Evelyn) Rosentreter, Kevin Rosentreter, Tim Rosentreter; a great granddaughter, Savanah Rosentreter; her aunt, Lois Hecox; a nephew and several nieces and cousins, along with many friends. Marjorie was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Gordon Burke.

A memorial service will be held Monday, March 4, 2013, at 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Pastor Joe Jeffreys officiating. A private burial will be held at Sanford Cemetery, Cohoctah, Michigan at a later date. The family will receive friends Sunday from 2-6 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to American Diabetes Association.

 

Frederick Stinnett, Jr.
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 87, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 24, 2013 at the Chelsea Retirement Community. He was born on Aug. 23, 1925 in Louisville, Kentucky, the son of Fred and Anna Mae (Holiday) Stinnett. On April 13, 1956 he married Glenda Doreen Ebert in Jackson, MI.

He had lived in the area since the 1960s, coming from Dearborn, and had worked for the Ford Motor Company for 30 years, retiring in 1980. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during World War II. In addition to his wife, he is survived by several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister, Argery Mae Rowe.

A Graveside Service will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2013 at 11 a.m. at Mount Hope Cemetery in Waterloo Twp. with Rev. Cathy Rafferty officiating. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the United Methodist Retirement Communities Heritage Foundation. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

 

Raymond Paul Chlebek
Of Dexter, Michigan

Age 67, passed peacefully on Monday, Feb.25, 2013 at his home in Dexter.

Ray was born on May 29, 1945, in Uniontown, PA to Anna and Stanley W. Chlebek. He was a beloved husband to Cathy, loving father and father-in-law to Jennifer and Robert (Bob) Flisher, and proud, dedicated grandfather of Chasen and Alexander (Xan) Flisher. He was the brother of Stanley, Edward, Thomas, Vincent, and Theresa. He is preceded in death by both parents and a brother, Henry.

Ray was an industrial arts teacher at Monroe Public Schools for 33 years until he retired in 2002. He was passionate about sports, coaching football, community activism, and most importantly, family. He was a member of the Dexter Lions Club.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2013 at 11 a.m. at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Joy Barrett officiating. A memorial gathering will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Dexter Lions Club.

 

 

Robert “Bob” Alan Salyer
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 60, died Thursday, Feb. 21, 2013 at his home. He was born Feb. 5, 1953 in Jackson, Michigan, the son of Role Salyer Jr. and Roma Jean (Vaughn) Salyer.

Bob graduated from Chelsea High School in 1971, where he excelled in sports and music. After graduation, he was in the US Army, serving in Germany. Bob attended Washtenaw Community College, worked for Chrysler Proving Grounds in Chelsea during the 80s, and later went into sales, working as a Sales Manager for Harley-Davidson. He coached and played softball in many leagues, and was a member of the American Legion Post 31. He enjoyed riding his Harley, traveling to warm beaches, and he loved to grill and entertain.

On May 15, 1993, he married Martha Kay Ewald in Chelsea, Michigan, and she survives. Other survivors include his children, Brett (Mike Jones) Salyer of Alameda, CA, Sarah (Tim) VanSchoick of Chelsea, Gregory McKeighan of Brooklyn, NY; his sisters, Wanda (Don) Koengeter of Chelsea, Brenda (Annette Tector) Salyer of East Hampton, MA; and his brothers, Rodney (Ann) Salyer of Chelsea, Howard (Patricia) Salyer of Salem, OR, and Mike (Adi) Sullivan of Rockford, IL; many nieces & nephews; aunts & uncles, numerous cousins; and many loving friends who have assisted during Bob’s illness. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, Feb. 27, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Rev. Ann Salyer officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea, with military honors by American Legion Post 31.

The family will receive friends Tuesday 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Great Lakes Hospice, 900 Cooper St, Jackson, MI 49202 or American Legion Post 31, PO Box 293, Chelsea, MI 48118.

 

Bethke, Helen Vantika (Rayment)
Of Chelsea, formerly of Ann Arbor, Michigan

Age 103, Helen went to live in Heaven with her Lord on Friday, Feb. 15, 2013. She was born to William and Minnie Rayment on April 8, 1909, in Ann Arbor, where she lived her entire life. She grew up on Gott Street, spending her youth ice-skating at West Park and watching her four brothers play ball there. She worked at King Seeley and Argus in her younger days, and was a full-time homemaker after her marriage to Emil.

On Aug. 31, 1930, Helen married Emil Carl Bethke, and after 64 years of marriage, he preceded her in death in June of 1995. They built their Sears kit home in 1931, and raised their children in that old West Side home on Koch Street. They loved to camp and trailer in Northern Michigan. Living so close to the stadium, parking cars on football Saturdays was a favorite fall event at their house.
Helen was a lifetime member of Bethlehem United Church of Christ where she taught Sunday School for years, was a member of the Auxiliary Group and Bible Study. She was an avid Wednesday night bowler, Girl Scout leader at Bach School and worked the voting polls at Angle School for many years.

Helen enjoyed traveling to Frankenmuth and Lake Columbia to watch the water activities and wildlife. She loved family reunions, visiting with her friends at Tiara Beauty Shop, receiving cards from traveling friends. Most recently, Helen enjoyed her new friends and the wonderful staff at Silver Maples in Chelsea. Many thanks to the staff, aids, and dining room helpers at Silver Maples.

They had three children: Bill (Nancy), Nancie (Gary) Dresselhouse, and Judi (Jack) Erwin. Also surviving are six wonderful grandchildren, Bob (Carlin) Dresselhouse, Becky (Bob) Nauss, Carrie (Jay) Barosso, Jenny (J.C.) Campbell, Brad Erwin and Derek Erwin; 12 great-grandchildren, Andy (Amanda) Dresselhouse, Danny Dresselhouse, Courtney and Alex Bertoia, Morgen and Erik Barosso, Spencer and Blake Campbell, Tyler Erwin and Kaelyn Erwin. She has many loving nieces and nephews, including a special niece, Lois Bethke Brown, who was a part of Helen’s household and spent vacations at Otsego Lake in Gaylord with the family. Helen was preceded in death by all her siblings, Percy (Edna), Merrill (Vie), Donald (Marge), Thurlow (Betty, sister-in-law survives), Estella (Hazen ) Figg, Nettie (Gunnell) Parks and Mable (Joseph) O’Donnell.

At Helen’s request, cremation has taken place. A private family service will be held. Donations in Helen’s memory may be sent to the Sunday School Fund at Bethlehem United Church of Christ. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

 

Brett Allen Martzolff
Of Ypsilanti, formerly Dexter, Michigan

Age 54, passed away on Monday, Feb. 11, 2013. He was born on March 30, 1958 in Detroit, MI, the son of Sturrel and Joyce (Lavasseur) Martzolff.

Brett grew up in Dexter and loved to be outdoors, especially fishing and working on cars. He also enjoyed Nascar and University of Michigan football.

Survivors include four sons: Jeremy Allen Martzolff of Ludington, Joshua Allen Martzolff of Manistee, Samuel Allen Martzolff of Ludington, Matthew Allen Martzolff of Ann Arbor, and partner Jane Elliott of Ypsilanti; his grandchildren: Krystal Mari, Scylla Kye, and Alixandir Allen; his father; and his brother, Norman (Karen) Martzolff of Dexter. He was preceded in death by his mother and his brother John Emerson.

A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held on Monday, Feb. 18, 2013 from 11-1 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family.

 

Virgil Leon Clark
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 78, died Wednesday, Feb. 13, 2013 at his home. He was born April 24, 1934 in Lyndon Township, the son of Carroll E. and Loretta (Slane) Clark.

Virgil graduated from Chelsea High School with the class of 1953. He worked at Rockwell International in Chelsea. Later he owned Virgil Clark Construction.

On Nov. 19, 1966, Virgil married Gail Lynn Tengman in Grass Lake, and she survives. Other survivors include their two sons, Clayton (Jessica) Clark of Gregory, and James (Kristin) Clark of Stockbridge; children from his previous marriage, Phyllis Vasas of Jackson, Richard Clark of Chelsea, Elizabeth Turner of Whitmore Lake, Anthony (Paula) Clark of Chelsea; three brothers, Carroll (Linda) Clark Jr., Myron (Ruby) Clark, and Fred Clark; a brother-in-law, Ray Peebles; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Donna Jean Peebles.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, Feb. 19, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Pastor Jeff Howard officiating. A private burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea.

The family will receive friends Monday from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association.

 

Maryjane Alice Buck
of Dexter, Michigan

Age 92, passed away on Monday, Feb. 11, 2013 at the Arbor Hospice Residence in Ann Arbor.

She was born on June 5, 1920 in Grayling, Michigan, the daughter of Augusto G. and Ardis C. (Wilburt) Wendt. She had lived in the area since 1979, moving from Dearborn. She enjoyed working on rug looms, sewing, needlepoint, candy making, and playing the organ and piano.

She married Merril F. Buck on Feb. 14, 1943. She is survived by two children, Patricia A. (David) Pieper of Texas and Charles M. Buck of Florida; her siblings: Richard Wendt, George Wendt, William Wendt, Karl Wendt, and Gwen Smith; and many grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, and a handful of great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Sandra Duym, and her sisters Betty Priebe, Jan Morrison, Pat Miller, and Barbara Conway.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, Feb. 15, 2013 at 11 a.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. Private interment will be held in Grayling at a later date. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Huron Valley, Ann Arbor.

 

 

 

Sharon Elizabeth Roehm
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 66, died Sunday, Feb. 10, 2013 at her home. She was born Sept. 22, 1946 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Norman & Cassie (Rowland) MacLeod.

Sharon graduated from Manchester High School in 1964. She retired from Thompson Reuters in 2011. Sharon was a member of Bethel United Church of Christ, Manchester.

On Aug. 17, 1968, she married David N. Roehm in Manchester, and he survives. Other survivors include two daughters, Tracy (Richard) Slater of Manchester, Tara (Dave) Stone of West Bloomfield; a brother, Norm (Linda) MacLeod of Jacksonville, FL; three grandchildren, Sophia, Noah, Braedon Stone; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Feb. 15, at 2 p.m. at Bethel United Church of Christ, Manchester, with Rev. David Bucholtz officiating. Burial will follow at Bethel Cemetery, Manchester. The family will receive friends Friday from noon until the time of the funeral. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

 

Brian Carl Koch
Chelsea, Michigan

Brian, age 55, passed away on Thursday Feb. 7, 2013 at the University of Michigan Hospital.

He was born on Oct. 19, 1957 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Carl and Janice (Mannlien) Koch. Graduating in 1975 from Dexter, Brian moved to Chelsea in 1981 where he was employed at the Chelsea Proving Grounds. During his 30 years, he was Stewart of the Local UAW 1284 for several years. He also had his business, Brian Koch Heating & Cooling, loved farming, tractors and showing sheep with his kids.

On June 26, 1982, he married LuAnn Strieter and she survives. Also surviving are his mother of Pinckney, his father of Dexter, five children: Christie (Joe) Combs of Minn., Tara (Jeff Knirk) Koch of Coldwater, Melissa (Andy) Vainner of Grass Lake, Jeff Koch of Chelsea and Amanda Koch of Brookings, SD; siblings, Gary (Debbie) Koch, Mike (Trish O’Brien) Koch, Susan Koch all of Dexter, Nancy (David) Broxholm of Pinckney, and Amy (Brett) Bishop of Nebraska; a sister-in-law Sally Strieter of Chelsea; three grandchildren Joey, Allison, and Clint; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Monday from 2-6 p.m. Private burial will take place at a later date. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Clint Brian Vainner Educational Fund.

 

Bertha “Betty” Louise Schultz
Dexter, MI

Age 101, died peacefully Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2013 in her home with her family at her side. She was born Oct. 22, 1911 in Grape, Michigan (in Monroe County), the daughter of Friedrich & Louise Augusta (Fischer) Colvia.

Betty has lived in Dexter since 1946, coming from Detroit. She was the Mid-Michigan Circuit Secretary for the Lutheran Women’s Mission Society. As an active member of Faith Lutheran Church, Betty mailed cards to church visitors, and sent birthday cards and letters to church members.

On Oct. 26, 1929, she married Brenton W. Schultz in Taylor, Michigan, and he preceded her in death on March 22, 1986. Survivors include a son, Brenton (Marcella) Schultz of Petoskey; a daughter, Marielayne Tenpenny (Raymond) Newell of Dexter; 12 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; 24 great-great grandchildren; and several nieces & nephews. In addition to her husband, Betty was preceded in death by Brenton Jr.’s twin, Robert; and grandson, Jessie; and three sisters, Elva Johnsen, Clara Ferry, and Elma Dove.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Feb. 9, 10 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, 9575 N Territorial Road, Dexter, with Rev. Mark Porinsky officiating. Burial will be at Washtenong Memorial Park in Ann Arbor.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Friday 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. and at the church Saturday 9:30-10 am. Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Lutheran Church.

 

Verglinda Stephens-Hoppe
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 88, passed away on Monday, Feb. 4, 2013 at her home surrounded by her family.

She was born on Jan. 19, 1925 in Salyersville, Kentucky, the daughter of Kern and Willie (Bailey) Patrick. On July 19, 1941 she married Charles William Stephens and he preceded her in death on June 28, 1996.

Verglinda had lived in the area since 1946, coming from Prestonsburg, Kentucky, and was a member of Faith Baptist Church, Chelsea. She enjoyed quilting, reading, canning, and spending time with her family and friends.

Surviving are three daughters: Glinda Katheryn (Charles) Kocsis of Texas, Janice (Robert) Taylor of Chelsea, and Joyce Policht of Chelsea; one step-son, Danny Hoppe of Saline; seven grandchildren: James Policht, Scott Policht, Stephen Dault, Sheryl Lancaster, Susan Rodriguez, Stacie (Roger) Manning, and Elizabeth (Jamie) Curran; eight great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren; her sister, Cassie Allen of Prestonsburg; her sister-in-law, Nola Stumbo of Prestonsburg; and several special nieces and nephews. She was also preceded in death by her parents; two infant great-grandchildren, Jack and Curran, and one great-granddaughter, Kayanna Jeanes; her siblings: Edgar Patrick, Norvell Patrick, Alta Patton, Lucy McElone, Virgie Harrety, Edith Smith, an infant brother, and an infant sister; a son-in-law, Brian Policht; and her second husband, Douglas Clifford Hoppe.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, Feb. 9, 2013 at 11 a.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Pastor Adam Summers and Pastor Jack Story co-officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. with Hymn Sing at 7:30 p.m. and on Saturday from 10-11 a.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Faith Baptist Church, Chelsea.

 

 

 

Geraldine “Gerry” C. Blackwell

Age 82, of Jasper, Alabama, formerly of Chelsea, Michigan, died on Sunday, Jan. 13, 2013, at her home.

She was born on June 26, 1930, in Nauvoo, Alabama, the daughter of Clarence and Nellie Gilbreath Cheatham. Her siblings were Clara Nell (Ray Henson), Imogene (Owen Glass), Carl (Faynell), Charles (Maud), Ramona (Clifford Cain), Sylvia “Faye” (Ferrell Keeton), and Dwight (Dorothy).

Gerry lived in Chelsea, Michigan most of her adult life. She worked at University Microfilms as she raised her children, Sherry Anda Baibak (Donald) of Chelsea, MI, Larry Richard (Marie) of Florida, Donna Ann Rodriguez (Randy) of Westland, MI and Pamela Kay Browning (Rocky) of Jasper, AL.

She was a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church in Chelsea. After retirement, she volunteered for the Chelsea Community Hospital Auxiliary for many years before moving back to Alabama.

Gerry was the mother of four children, 10 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Andy; son-in-law Randy; grandson Matthew; great-granddaughter McKenzie; sister Ramona; and brothers Charles, Carl, and Dwight.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, Feb. 16, 2013 from 1-2 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel with a brief memorial service at 2 p.m. Burial will be at Vermont Cemetery at a date and time to be determined. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea First United Methodist Church, 128 Park St., Chelsea, MI 48118.

 

 

John Rudolf Peyser
Ann Arbor, MI

Age 89, died Wednesday, Jan. 30, 2013 in Chelsea, Michigan. He was born Aug. 18, 1923 in Eschwege, Germany, the son of Otto & Antonie (Martin) Peyser.

John moved to the United States in 1936, and served in Japan in the US Army during World War II. He graduated from Wayne State University with a degree in Pharmaceutical Science. John worked as a pharmacist at St. Joseph Mercy in Hamtramck. He loved music, nature, canoeing, hiking, painting, and was a voracious reader. He traveled throughout the world throughout his lifetime. He enjoyed living in downtown Ann Arbor for the last 20 years, and attended many lectures, especially enjoying the ones about philosophy and science research. He enjoyed many live classical music performances there.

Survivors include a son, Mike (Tina) Peyser of Hoffman Estates, IL; three daughters, Lisa (Dave Buckley) Peyser of Waterford, Ruth (Curt) Walker of Rochester Hills, Anita (Pete) Kapelke of Chelsea; a sister Gabrielle (Hellmuth) Kornmueller of Sault Ste Marie; 7 grandchildren, Dylan Buckley, Aaron & Elise Walker, Keaton & Kyla Peyser, Hugo & Tess Kapelke.

A private graveside service was held at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea. Memorial contributions may be made to Detroit Symphony Orchestra. A memorial service will be held in the spring. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

 

Thomas C. Palmer
Bellevue, MI, formerly of Dexter, MI

Age 60, died Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013 at his home in Bellevue, Michigan. He was born May 22, 1952 in Ann Arbor, the son of Thomas H. & Kathleen R. (Crosby) Palmer.

He was a piano tuner & pianist, who also enjoyed playing the guitar.

Thomas is survived by two brothers; William John (Sandra) Palmer of Grass Lake, and Sean Rieno Palmer of Michigan Center. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Kelly Thomas; and a sister, Elizabeth Helen.

A private burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery in Dexter at a later date. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

 

Bertha M. Clemons

Bertha M. Clemons, age 87 years, of Wauseon, passed away Monday morning, Jan. 28, 2013, at the University of Toledo Medical Center. She was born July 15, 1925 at Liberty Center, the daughter of Carl and Helen (Corwin) Kruger. She married Roy Clemons on Aug. 24, 1946 and he preceded her in death on May 1, 2010.

A resident of the Wauseon area since 1999, she was a homemaker. She enjoyed her family, flowers and listening to music. She was a member of the Eagles Point Worship Center in Wauseon, and the Gideons International Auxiliary.

She is survived by six children, Rebecca (Gary) Tuttle of Adrian, MI, Vickie (Ernest) Hinderer of Chelsea, MI, Tonya Short of Grand Ledge, MI, Rev. Charles Clemons of Ypsilanti, MI, Thomas (Patricia) Clemons of Chelsea, MI, and Charity (Keith) Frank of Saline, MI; 12 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; one brother, Charles Kruger; and two sisters, Betty Snyder, and Lois Newcomer.

Services will be held on Friday at 10 a.m. at Eagles Point Worship Center located at 1075-3 North Shoop Ave. in Wauseon, with Pastors Michael Lulfs assisted by Chuck Clemons officiating.

Interment will be at 2 p.m. on Friday at Washtenong Memorial Park in Ann Arbor, MI. Friends may call at Eagles Point Worship Center from 3-7 p.m. on Thursday. The family suggests that memorials be given to Eagles Point Worship Center.

 

Junie Carpenter

Of Jackson, Michigan

Age 93, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2013 at home surrounded by her family.

She was born on Sept. 11, 1919 in Salyersville, Kentucky, the daughter of Sam and Fannie (Minix) Salyer. In March 1939, she married Zephyr Carpenter in Salyersville and he preceded her in death in April 1977.

Junie was an excellent cook, enjoyed candies and baking, and she never had to measure her ingredients; she will be especially remembered for her corn bread and beans. Most of all, she was a loving mother to her children and grandchildren.

Surviving are nine children: Dennis R. (Barbara) Carpenter of Daytona Beach, FL, Sam (Ramona) Carpenter of Harrison, AR, Jimmie (Cathy) Carpenter of Dansville, Vickie (Randy) McClelland of Pampa, TX, Helbert Lynn Carpenter of Clearwater, FL, Joyace Ann Carpenter of Ann Arbor, Jerry Lee (Kathy) Carpenter of Sarasota, FL, Kathy (Ben) Kincer of Grass Lake, and Doug Carpenter of Jackson; many grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her son, Kenneth Carpenter.

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, Feb. 1, 2013 at 2:30 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Rev. Paul Arnold officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family.

 

Arlene Louise West
Of Ypsilanti, formerly Sylvan Twp., Michigan

Age 89, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, Ann Arbor.

She was born on Aug. 5, 1923 in Sylvan Township, the daughter of Fred and Louise (Straub) Hafley. Arlene graduated from Chelsea High School. On Nov. 29, 1947, she married J.D. West at St. Paul Lutheran Church. He preceded her in death in 1985.

Arlene worked for the Huron Valley Child Guidance Clinic in Ypsilanti for 46 years. She also worked for the Ypsilanti Thrift Shop and was a former member of the Ypsilanti Business and Professional Women’s Club. She also liked to volunteer at Zion Lutheran Church.

Surviving are one son, James West of Dexter, three grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and one sister-in-law, Bernadine Hafley of Chelsea. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her siblings: Meryl Hafley, Pearl Hartman, Veryl “Tobe” Hafley, Glenn Hafley, Don Hafley, Duane Hafley, and Earl Hafley.

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, Feb. 1, 2013 at 11 a.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery, Sylvan Township. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 5-8 p.m. Expressions of sympathy can be made to St. Joseph Mercy Health Care Systems.

 

Richard “Dick” L. Davis
Dexter, MI

Age 68, died peacefully on Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2013. He was born Sept. 1, 1944 in Park Rapids, MN, the son of Leroy “Jack” & Lucille (Mackey) Davis.

On Aug. 25, 1961, he married Joy M. Hazard, and she preceded him in death on Aug. 14, 2012.

Dick went to work for Ford Motor Company in 1962. After becoming a Tool & Die Journeyman and obtaining a degree in Engineering, he left Ford in 1971 to pursue a career as a Design & Sales Engineer representing tool manufacturers to Ford. He started Davis Equipment Co., Inc. in 1981 and worked independently until he retired in 1992. He was a member of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, the Society of Carbide Engineers, and a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association. Dick enjoyed NASCAR Racing, U of M football, and entertaining his customers, colleagues & friends.

He was also preceded in death by his Father, Leroy “Jack” Davis in 1985, his brother, Maynard Davis in 1987, and his son, Rick Davis in 2008. Survivors include two daughters, Rhonda (Phillip) Miller and Helen Hergott; two grandchildren, Mitchell Granet and Jillian (Bill) Poteracki; his Mother, Lucille Davis; two brothers, Michael (Sue) Davis, Milton (Kay) Davis; and one sister, Marilyn (Mark) Parraghi.

A memorial service will be held Jan. 30, 2013, 4 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Deacon Tom Franklin officiating. Family will begin receiving guests at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Arbor Hospice.

 

 

Roy “Mike” Cupps
Gregory, MI, formerly of Garden City

Age 62, died peacefully Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013 at his home with his loving wife by his side. He was born Nov. 6, 1950 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Eugene Stanley & Joan Rita (Lane) Cupps.

Mike graduated from Crestwood High School in Dearborn Heights. He served as an aircraft mechanic in the US Naval Reserves. Mike worked for CSX Railroad as a conductor until May 2009. He volunteered with the Shriners. He loved gardening, fishing, cooking and baking, and he worked on cars and motorcycles.

Survivors include his wife, Janice Marie (Kochanowski) Cupps; his mother, Joan Rantala; a son, Michael Ryan Slavens of Milford; three daughters, Shelly (Jeffrey) Hayes of Gregory, Christine Cupps of Gregory, April Cupps of Novi; a brother, Geoffrey Rantala of Carleton; 4 grandchildren, Danielle Hood, Christopher Gordenier, Drew & Jon Hayes, and a grandson expected in May. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Rick Cupps and David Cupps, and his father.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Jan. 26, 3 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Rev. Suzanne Walls officiating. The family will receive friends on Saturday from 1-3:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

 

Joesph Martin Merkel
of Chelsea, MI

Age 66 passed away at the St. Joseph Mercy Hospital on Jan. 18, 2013. He was born the son of Joseph E. and Betty M. (Smith) Merkel Sr. on Sept. 21, 1946.

After attending Junior High School in Chelsea his family moved to Owosso where Joe attended high school and met his wife Judy V. Pazzi. Joe and Judy were married at St. Paul Catholic Church in Owosso on May 14, 1966.

Joe was a member of the National Guard and served with the 146 Military Police Company for six years and was activated for the Detroit Riots. In 1968, he purchased the Wolverine Food and Spirits Restaurant. Joe enjoyed hunting and fishing, going to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. He was always willing to help, he served as a Knight of Columbus, a member of the Fair Board, Police Commissioner, Construction Captain for Timber Town, Village Council, American Legion, Citizen of the year in 1996. Joe was a long-time member of the Chelsea Rod and Gun Club, a committee member of Fallen Heroes, and received a citizenship award from St. Louis Center in 2000 and received recognition from D.A.R.E. for contributions and support. Family was most important to Joe especially his six grandchildren.

In addition to his wife Judy, Joe is survived by his father Joseph E. Merkel Sr. of Owosso, his children Joseph A. (Tina) Merkel of Chelsea, Michael (Michelle) Merkel of Canton and Christina (Jason) Scripter of Chelsea. Also surviving are his grandchildren Nicholas, Lauren, Elise, Branden, Ava and Landon, as well as his siblings Sharol Haskins of Owosso, Mark (Mary) Merkel of Commerce Twp. and Lisa (Jack) Phillips of Bath Twp. Joe was preceded in death by his mother Betty M. Merkel.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2013 from St. Mary Catholic Church at 11 a.m. with The Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. The family will receive friends at the Staffan Mitchell Funeral Home on Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church or the St. Louis Center.

 

 

Clifford Henry Peterson
Grass Lake, MI

Age 94, died Friday, Jan. 18, 2013 at Chelsea Community Hospital. He was born Nov. 7, 1918 in Waterloo Township, Michigan, the son of Nelson C. & Rhoana M. (Ortbring) Peterson.

Cliff has lived in Grass Lake all of his life. He was a WWII Navy Veteran who served in the Pacific. Cliff attended Salem Grove United Methodist Church. He was a member for many years of the Michigan Steam Engine & Threshers Club, was a founding member & Secretary/Treasurer of Charlton Park Antique Engine Club, and a founding member of the Alpena Tractor & Steam Engine Club. Cliff had helped many, many people with building & re-building engines, model oil pulls (pup) and other projects. He was a tool & die maker in New Jersey with Rockwell from 1950-1957, retiring from Manchester Stamping in 1980.

On June 1, 1940, he married Marcella “Sally” Catherine Schultz at Salem Grove Methodist parsonage, and she preceded him in death on Jan. 2, 2000. Survivors include one sister, Elsie (Rudolph) Rohde of Grass Lake; 3 nephews, Donald (Donna) Rohde, Randy (Becky) Rohde, Ronald Peterson; 2 nieces, Vivian (Lee) Boobier, Dee (Darren) Heltahidel ; a special grand-nephew, Tim (Katie) Rohde; and many great-nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Donald, Norman, & Raymond.

Funeral services will be held Monday, Jan. 21, 1:30 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Rev. Carolyn Harris officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Waterloo, Michigan. The family will receive friends Sunday 1-6 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Salem Grove United Methodist Church, or a charity of your choice.

 

Lester Ernest Miller
Of Holly, Michigan
Formerly of Ann Arbor, St. Helen, and Chelsea, MI

Age 95, passed away at Wynwood of Grand Blanc, Senior Living on Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2013. He was born the son of Ernest and Marie (Goldner) Miller on Aug. 25, 1917, in Detroit, MI. He graduated from Southwestern High School in 1937. He worked with his good friend, Gene Butman, at Bob Ford in Dearborn for several years, and again in 1963, retiring as General Manager of Gene Butman Ford, Inc., Ypsilanti, in 1982.

He took great pleasure in playing golf and he was an avid Detroit Tigers fan. He also enjoyed playing cards, Wii bowling, reading, and dining with his friends, but he would give up any of those activities if the Tigers were playing. Lester was an active member of the Knights of Columbus, 3rd and 4th degree in Roscommon County, Michigan. Most of all, Lester loved spending time with his family.

He is survived by his children: Claudia (Roger) Day of The Villages, FL, Sandra (Michael) Glance of Anaheim, CA, Bill (Maggie) Miller of Fenton, MI, and Pam (Paul) Mazmanian of Crozier, VA, as well as eleven grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren. Les was preceded in death by his wife of 71 years, Evelyn Grace Miller; son, Matthew (Duke) Miller OSB; grandson, Soren Miller; and great-granddaughter, Jennifer Young.

Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2013 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Visitation will be at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea on Monday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association.

 

 

Norman Harold Bauer
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 79, died Thursday, Jan. 17, 2013 at his home. He was born Feb. 2, 1933 in Chelsea, the son of George F. & Ruby M. (Hadley) Bauer Jr.

Norm was a member of the Chelsea High School class of 1953. While at CHS, he placed 4th in the state in the 440 yard dash. Norm served in the US Air Force in Korea. He owned Norm’s Body Shop for many years. Norm was a member of the Chelsea Police Auxiliary, Chelsea Kiwanis Club, and Chelsea Rod & Gun Club. He was a member of St. Paul United Church of Christ, where he served on the Church Council and sang in the choir. Norm was an avid supporter of Chelsea athletics and music. He was a founding member of Chelsea Area Players and the Purple Rose Theatre. Norm was a farmer all of his life, and was the 3rd generation on his homestead.

On May 18, 1957, he married Gail Provance in Chelsea, and she survives. Other survivors include two sons, Dennis (Susan) of Chelsea, Bartley (Alisa) of Chelsea, a daughter, Gayla (Tor) Bauer Blaisdell of Ellensburg, WA; three brothers, Walter (Jayne), Robert (Mary), Donald (Lelia); one sister, Barbara (Charley) Fredette; he was “Granddad” to 7 grandchildren, Darl (Carly) Bauer, Cal Bauer, Adam Bauer, Devyn Bauer, Nathan Bauer, Tristan Blaisdell, Lydia Blaisdell; and many extended family members.

Funeral services will be held Monday, Jan. 21, 11 a.m. at St. Paul United Church of Christ, Chelsea, with Pastor Jim Coyl officiating. Burial will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery at a later date. The family will receive friends Sunday from noon – 5 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, and Monday 10-11 a.m. at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to St Paul United Church of Christ or the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System.

 

Viola Estella Lundell
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Saline, Southfield, and Detroit

Age 87, died Sunday, Jan. 6, 2013 at Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born Feb. 1, 1925 in Lansing, Michigan, the daughter of Robert & Bertha (Emmenheiser) Richter.

Viola attended Highland Park Baptist Church in Southfield, and Grace Bible Church in Ann Arbor. She was a Registered Nurse, earning her degree from Henry Ford, working with the Dearborn Public Schools, as a school nurse. She earned a Master’s Degree from U of M.

On Aug. 14, 1948, she married James G. Lundell, in Detroit, Michigan. James preceded her in death on Nov. 30, 2004. Survivors include three children, Paul James (Ilene) Lundell of Okemos, Mark Lundell of Chicago, IL, and Esther (Derek) Hitchcock of Jackson, and Jean Hodgson Lundell; 9 grandchildren; and 5 great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by a son, Timothy Robert Lundell.

Viola was a loving, devoted mother, grandmother, wife and avid Christian. She devoted her love to the care of others, as a nurse, a Sunday school teacher, and Bible study leader. She attended her children’s, and grand children’s activities, sport events, and performances. She worked many a summer as a camp nurse for each of her children’s summer camp experiences. She had an interest in music and encouraged her children and grandchildren to follow their musical interests.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, Jan. 27, 2 p.m. at Chelsea Retirement Community, with Rev. Cathy Rafferty officiating. Burial will be at Bethlehem Cemetery in Ann Arbor. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

 

Samuel Lee Hoover
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 61, died Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2013 in his home. He was born June 10, 1951 in Stockbridge, Michigan, the son of Warren M. & Anna (VanBlaircum) Hoover.

Sam graduated from Chelsea High School in 1969. He worked for Dana Corp. for many years. Later he worked for Bookcrafters, and more recently, Polly’s in Chelsea. Sam was confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church in Chelsea. He was a member of the Chelsea Rod & Gun Club.

Survivors include a daughter, Kym Parker of Jackson; a son, Eric (Carissa) Hoover of Jackson; 7 grandchildren, Kyle & Skylar, Caleb, Cody, Kaitlyn, Audrey, & Jeremy; two brothers, Bruce Hoover of Sumpter, OR, Daniel (Janet) Hoover of Chelsea; two sisters, Jaqueline (Roy) Wentz of Chelsea, Elizabeth Kalmbach of Chelsea; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Jan. 18, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea with pastors Stanley Eckermann and John Morris officiating. The family will receive friends Thursday 3-7 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

 

 

Keith Eric Bragg

At age 51, Keith Eric Bragg passed away Friday, Jan. 11, 2013 at his home.

He was born on Nov. 7, 1961 in Ypsilanti, MI, the son of Dennis and Rosie (Dulin) Bragg. Keith lived in the area of Chelsea for the last 12 years and owned and operated K E B Inc. /AACHEN Auto in Ypsilanti.

Keith enjoyed water skiing, collecting monopoly games, cuckoo clocks, hunting, building and working on cars, raising German Shepherds, and spending time with family and friends.

On June 30, 2007 he married Dawn M. Terrazas. They had been together 21 years, and she survives; also surviving are their five children, Tomasa (Wesley) Baldwin of Ann Arbor, Eric 18, Killian 14, Leif 12, and Kyle Emm 11; his mother Rosie Williamson of Ypsilanti, one brother, Danny (Diane) Bragg of Saline, one sister Sheila (Bill) Dorsey of Mississippi; and one granddaughter, Izabella Baldwin; also several aunts and uncles, and several nieces and nephews as well.

He was preceded in death by his father Dennis Bragg, a baby brother Tracy Bragg, his sister Cherie Ray, his granddaughter Payge, as well as two infant children.

A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, Jan. 17, 2013 at 1 p.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Pastor Donald R. Viers officiating. Expressions of sympathy can be made to the Bragg Children’s Educational Fund. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 5-8 p.m. and also on Thursday from noon until the time of service.

 

Kenneth Ryan Patrick
Jackson, Michigan

Age 49, died Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013 at his home. He was born March 14, 1963 in Ann Arbor, MI, the son of Bishop Russell & Lou Jean (Eastep) Patrick.

Kenneth attended Chelsea High School. He worked in landscaping with his brother Lanny. Kenneth enjoyed computers and the CB Radio.

Survivors include a son, Keith Patrick of Napoleon; 3 daughters, Angela (Joe) Shankland of Jackson, Heather (Greg) Bird of Columbia, Missouri, Karlee Patrick of Napoleon; 2 grandchildren, Morgan and Mollie; a sister Judith (Tim) Ehnis of Grass Lake; a brother Lanny (Kathie) Patrick of Manchester; several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family will receive friends Friday, Jan. 11, from 6-8 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel. A private burial will be at Maple Grove Cemetery, Chelsea. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.

 

 

Gladys Spike
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Ypsilanti

Age 96, died Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2013 at Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born Dec. 13, 1916 in Knox County, Kentucky, the daughter of Henry & Minnie (Tye) Young.

Gladys moved from Kentucky to Ann Arbor in 1937. She lived her entire married life in Ypsilanti until she moved to the Chelsea Retirement Community in 2007. She graduated from Willow Run High School in 1969, earned an Associate’s Degree from Washtenaw Community College, then attended the University of Michigan. She was a charter member of Forest Avenue Baptist Church in Ypsilanti.

She married G. Wayne Spike in 1941, who preceded her in death in May of 1998. Survivors include a daughter, Ruth (Mark) Theobald of Bloomfield Hills; three sons, Rev. Daniel Spike of Algonquin, IL, Fred (Karen) Spike of Wilmington, NC, Paul (Susan) Spike of Ypsilanti; 6 grandchildren, Paul Bell, Kathie (Darryl) Turner, Scott (Martha) Spike, Jess (Nan) Spike, Rachel Spike, and Ben (Kristen) Spike; and; 7 great-grandchildren, Preston & Julian Spike, Nathaniel & Joanna Turner, Otis & Nevis Spike, and Elijah Spike; and many nieces & nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and stepfather, Embie Fore; a daughter, Dr. Mary Elizabeth “Skippy” Bell, one sister, and 4 brothers.

A private graveside service was held at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea. A private memorial service will be held in the Spring. Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Retirement Community, 801 W. Middle St., Chelsea, MI 48118 or Reading Is Fundamental, Attn: Development Department, P.O. Box 33728, Washington, DC 20033. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

 

William A. Maier
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 80, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2013 at Legacy Assisted Living in Jackson.

He was born Sept. 16, 1932 in Ann Arbor, MI the son of Walter and Elizabeth (Benz) Maier. On July 23, 1967, he married Minnie E. Moss, and she survives. He worked as an electrician for Local Union 252 in Ann Arbor for 44 years, retiring in 1994. He loved to duck hunt, deer hunt, and steelhead and salmon fishing as well.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by five children: Ross (Corrine) Maier of Chelsea, Robert (Cheri) Maier of Virginia, Richard (Delores) Maier of North Carolina, Randall (Jodee) Maier of Westland, and Ronald (Kay) Maier of North Carolina; one sister Margaret (Larry) Hough of California; also fourteen grandchildren and one great-grandson.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, Jan. 11, 2013 at 10 a.m. from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 9 a.m. until the time of service. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or Legacy Assisted Living.

 

Ruth Louise Bristle
Of Dowagiac, formerly of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 84, passed away on Monday, Jan. 7, 2013 at the Timbers of Cass County in Dowagiac.

She was born on Dec. 19, 1928 in Grass Lake Twp., the daughter of Walter and Norma (Sluyter) Schittenhelm. On Sept. 2, 1949, she married Leroy E. Bristle in Chelsea and he preceded her in death on May 9, 2003.

Ruth had resided in the Dowagiac area since February 2003 and was also a longtime member of Zion Lutheran Church in Chelsea. She enjoyed cooking, canning, and baking.

Surviving are three children: Elaine (Ronald) Falcone of Beavercreek, OH, Eileen (Charles) Rubino of Dowagiac, and Ernest (Karren) Bristle of Royal Oak; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and two siblings, John (Ramona) Skittenhelm and Mary (Robert) Bauer, both of Chelsea.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013 at 11 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, Chelsea with Pastor Stanley J. Eckermann officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. The family will receive friends on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or to the church.

 

Emerson Arthur “Skip” Wheeler
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 77, passed away on Monday, Jan. 7, 2013 at the Foundation Park Alzheimers Care Center in Toledo, OH.

He was born on March 15, 1935 in Dexter, MI, the son of Harold and Agnes (Bell) Wheeler. On Oct. 29, 1960, he married Eva K. Trinkle in Chelsea. Skip had lived in the area his entire life, was a longtime member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, and had worked for the Washtenaw County Road Commission for over 40 years. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and taking rides with his friends.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter-in-law, Viola (Doug) Sherman of Chelsea; granddaughter, Cindy Wheeler; sister, Betty Hough of Florida; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son, Leon Wheeler, and two sisters, Lorine Ellenwood and Mary Ann Eder.

Mass will be held on Thursday, Jan. 10, 2013 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea. Private interment will take place at a later date at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea on Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church or Heartland Hospice.

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