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Obituaries 2015


Alseth-DeanWarren “Dean” Alseth
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 91, Dean died Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2015 at the Chelsea Retirement Community.

He was born in Lake Preston, South Dakota on Feb. 26, 1924, the youngest of three children born to Charles and Ida (Brooks) Alseth. Dean is survived by his wife of 57 years, Barbara; two daughters, Sharon Alseth Bartholomew (John) of Indianapolis, Indiana, Susan Wellman (Mark) of Chelsea; grandchildren Michelle, Brian and Catherine Wellman; nieces Elizabeth Heller, Martha Heller; and nephew Peter Heller. Dean was preceded in death by his devoted sister and friend Dorothy Heller, and brother Charles Alseth.

Dean was interested in learning about almost everything. As a young man, he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts organization. As an adult he followed his pursuits in the wild as a hunter and fisherman, and enjoyed golf, bowling and chess, wine and beer making, cooking and baking, oil painting and model ship building, socializing with neighbors, and taking on do-it-yourself projects. While his interests evolved over the years, one constant was his service to his church, in a number of volunteer capacities.

A 1942 graduate of Lake Preston High School, Dean went on to Yankton College in South Dakota, and served in the U.S. Navy during WWII, as a member of the esteemed Scouts and Raiders, and as an admiral’s aide. Throughout his life, Dean loved to share stories, and often reminisced about his days in the Pacific. He was a student of history – military, and genealogy, and was fascinated by tracing his family roots.

After his honorable discharge from the Navy, and his graduation from Yankton, Dean joined the U.S. Gypsum Company, where he was a dedicated employee for 40 years, retiring in 1987 as a Marketing Policy Manager. He and Barb started their family in Omaha, Nebraska, and, with a job promotion in 1968, moved to Arlington Heights, Illinois where they made their home for 29 years. In 1997, Dean and Barb moved to Chelsea, and filled their retirement years with family, new friends and community activities.

Proud, loyal, and positive are words that best describe our husband, father, grandfather and uncle. He truly was a friend to all.

The family would like to extend its heartfelt appreciation to the caregivers and companions at Towsley Village, Silver Maples Retirement Community and at home, for the professional and personal care, compassion and love they gave to Dean.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, Jan. 7, 2 p.m. at St. Paul United Church of Christ, Chelsea, with Pastor Jim Coyl officiating. The family will receive friends Thursday at the church from 1-2 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul United Church of Christ.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

taddonio-DominickDominick Anthony Taddonio
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 91, died Monday, Dec. 28, 2015 at Silver Maples of Chelsea.

He was born Jan. 1, 1924 in New York, NY, the son of John and Louise (Stolfi) Taddonio. On June 27, 1947, he married Helen Cotter, and she survives. Other survivors include four sons, Richard (Jamie) of Grass Lake, John (Ann) of Manchester, Thomas (Doris) of Manchester, Paul of Davison; three daughters, Sr. Anita Marie Taddonio of Livonia, Theresa (Shawn) McFall of Plainwell, Helen (Chuck) Taddonio-Wayner of Topeka, KS; a sister, Anita (Jim) Bonnanzio; 23 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Florian Taddonio and his parents.

Dominick was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea. He served in the US Army during WWII and Korea and retired as a Lt. Colonel in 1973. He was a university professor at Castleton Teachers College in Vermont, University of Detroit, Eastern Michigan University, University of Buffalo New York, and the University of Michigan (where he received his Ph.D).

Dominick had a love for athletics, influencing many lives as a track, cross country, tennis and basketball coach and mentor. He ran 16 marathons, including 8 Boston Marathons. Dominick had a strong love for his family, and instilled the love of the outdoors to all.

A Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, Jan. 2, 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, with the V. Rev. William J. Canon Turner officiating. Burial will be at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Friday from 2-6 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the Michigan Great Lakes Alzheimer’s Association.

Bareis,-Mary-webMary L. Bareis
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 82, passed away on Monday, Dec. 28, 2015, at St. Joseph Mercy Chelsea Hospital.

She was born on Oct. 4, 1933, in Ann Arbor, MI, the daughter of Earl and Mary (Heatley) Weinkauf. She had lived in the area all of her life and was an elementary school teacher in Chelsea, teaching third grade, and then later taught first and second grades for the East Jackson Public Schools. She was a life member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, where she was involved with the Ladies of St. Mary and was also a past-president of the Ladies. She was an avid reader, enjoyed collecting angels and longaberger baskets, golfing at Waterloo with the Dublin Dolls, and camping with the Coachman camping club.

On Aug. 14, 1954, she married Oscar Eugene Bareis in Chelsea, and he survives. Also surviving are three children: Timothy (Charlotte) Bareis of Tecumseh, Thomas (Teri) Bareis of Chelsea, and Susan Bareis of Chelsea; one granddaughter, Kayla Bareis; and three sisters: Phyllis Crawford of Burton, MI, Joan Weinkauf of Chelsea, and Judy Oates of Virginia. She was preceded in death by her parents, her extended family member Charles Montgomery, and two brothers-in-law, Robert Crawford and Michael Oates.

Mass will be held Thursday, Dec. 31, 2015, at 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with the V. Rev. William J. Canon Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Wednesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. with Rosary Service at 7 p.m., and also at church from 10 a.m. until time of service. Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church.

Shaneyfelt,-Nadine-webNadine U. Shaneyfelt
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 83, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2015, at her home.

She was born on Sept. 30, 1932, in Lexington, Kentucky, the daughter of William and Verna (Boggs) Underwood. She had lived in the area since 1955, coming from Lexington, and attended St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea. She spent her early life working for Lexington Credit Bureau and Ann Arbor Credit Bureau, which was invaluable training for her work later in life at Faith in Action, from which she retired in 2005. She spent 18 years at FIA, first as a Vista Volunteer for three years and then in 1991 she became assistant to the President, Rev. Dr. Jerrold F. Beaumont. She spent most of her life trying to keep some degree of sanity while raising six children.

In her retirement she enjoyed fishing, camping, traveling with special friends Janie and Mike Nunez, and spending time with her family. She did anything and everything for her family, of which she was the “matriarch.”

On May 5, 1979, she married Richard P. Shaneyfelt in Indiana and he survives. Also surviving are her five children: Colette (Russell) Luckhardt of Gregory, Shari Wright of Windsor, SC, Brian (Vicki) Wright of Wagner, SC, Dana (Geneva) Wright of Goodlettsville, TN, Van (April) Wright of Tecumseh; two step-children, Christine (Allen) Johnson of Howell and Beth (David) Renner of Bridgewater; 19 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; her sister-in-law, Bobbe Underwood of Florida; and her “dopted” daughter Connie “Corndoggie” Leach. She was preceded in death by her son Gary Dean Wright and her brother William V. “Bunny” Underwood.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 28, 2015, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with the V. Rev. William J. Canon Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. Visitation will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. with Vigil at 7 p.m., and also at the church on Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Faith in Action or the charity of one’s choice.

Collins,-Lynda-webLynda Marie Collins
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 68, passed away in Chelsea surrounded by her family on Dec. 19, 2015.

Lynda was born the daughter of Paul W. and Gladys (Myrand) Heathfield on April 12, 1947, in Detroit, Michigan. Lynda was a pillar of the Chelsea community. She taught preschool, was a Girl Scout Leader, and coached softball for many years.

She worked for the Chelsea Police Department for 18 years. She was a founding member and President of the Chelsea Depot Association and Founding Member of the Chelsea Historical Society.

Recently, she was honored with the Chelsea Lifetime Achievement Award, Chelsea Citizen of the Year Award and also received the Small Business Leadership Award and the Howard S. Holmes Humanitarian of the Year Award. She was involved with helping veterans and adopted many families through Faith In Action.

Lynda was the owner of Thompson’s Pizza since 2002, and was one of the most generous people the Community of Chelsea will ever know and a mentor to many.
Lynda is survived by her children: Kelly Hone (David Tiihonen), Michelle (Jon) Mykala, Kimberly Ferry (Michael Hayden), Danielle Longe, Shannon (Jeremy) Hodges, Erin (Josh) Parker, Nicole Collins (Dale Allen), Matthew Collins (Alex Doering), and Damyon Collins. Also surviving are her grandchildren: Lauren Hone, Brandon Hone, Justin Hone, Jonathon Mykala, Spencer Mykala, McKenzie Mykala, Nicholas Scripter, Carly Ferry, Hunter Ferry, Olivia Leonard, Alise Hale, Allison Hale, Ethan Fody, Dylan Hodges, Drew Hodges, Maya Parker, Sophia Parker, and Westley Collins, along with her siblings Paula (Mark) Madar and Pam (Reuben) Lesser.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Debbie Wedegartner and brother-in-law Steve Madar. Lynda is also survived by her special friend Don Steele.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2015, from St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with the V. Rev. William J. Canon Turner officiating. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. A Vigil Service will be held starting at 8 p.m.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Lynda Collins Memorial Scholarship.

Carraher_-JeanJean Betty (Caesar) Carraher
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 90, died Monday, Dec. 14, 2015 at Chelsea Retirement Community.

She was born Feb. 6, 1925 in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Elmer and Myrtle (Loger) Caesar.

Jean loved working with special education students at Garden City Public Schools. She sang with the Sweet Adelines, and was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church.

On June 23, 1951, she married James Carraher, and he preceded her in death in 1999. Survivors include two daughters, Sandra (Steve) Kiss of Chelsea, Laura (Rob) Tallman of Manchester; and a grandson, Alexander “AJ” Tallman. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Susan Carraher in 2015, and 2 brothers, Elmer and James Caesar.

Funeral services were held Friday, Dec. 18, at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea, with Rev. Dale Grimm officiating. Burial followed at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1515 S. Main St., Chelsea, MI 48118.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

Schoenberg-DonDonald Ray Schoenberg
Chelsea, MI

Age 87, passed away peacefully on, Friday, Dec. 18, 2015 in Chelsea, Michigan, and is now with his Lord. He was born Sept. 11, 1928 in Romeo, Michigan, the son of Arthur and Merle (Kimball) Schoenberg.

Don graduated from Imlay City High School in 1946. Don worked at many places over the years including; Chelsea Hardware in charge of small engine repair from 1957-1962, he owned and operated a Sinclair Gas Station in Chelsea from 1962-1966, a journeyman carpenter in the Detroit area from 1968-1976, and retired from the University of Michigan Hospital in 1987.

After retirement he was “Mr. Handyman” around town, and was known as a master woodworker. He was Sylvan Township Supervisor and Assessor for many years. Don was a longtime faithful member of Zion Lutheran Church, where he was the President of Church Council, Superintendent of Sunday School and also did a lot of the maintenance and repair work for the church. He volunteered with Habitat for Humanity for many years and was a House Leader for several of them. Don also volunteered many hours at Chelsea Community Hospital. He was a former member of Kiwanis Club. Don’s greatest joy was spending time with his family.

On April 19, 1947, he married Cheryl Sohn in Imlay City, and she survives. Other survivors include two sons, Doug (Beckie) of Chelsea, Dale (Cindy) of Stockbridge; a brother, Richard Schoenberg of Shelby Township; five grandchildren, Rachel (Joseph) Ivanowski, Corrie (Matthew Arnn) Schoenberg, Christopher (Jessica) Schoenberg, Sunni Schoenberg, Kaci Schoenberg; five great-grandchildren, Colin, Wyatt, Rhett, Dash, Anwen; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a son, Dean Schoenberg, a sister, Margaret Koch and two brothers, Carl Schoenberg and Howard Schoenberg.

Funeral services will be held Monday, Dec. 28, 11 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, with Pastor Kathy Tulman officiating. Burial will be at Vermont Cemetery, Chelsea, Michigan. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel on Sunday, Dec. 27 from 1-6 p.m. and Monday at the church from 10-11 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church, St. Jude, or Habitat for Humanity.

Craig-Robert-Jr-3Robert Eldon Craig, Jr.
Sarnia, Ontario, Canada, formerly of Tawas City

Age 69, died Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2015.

He was born Nov. 13, 1946 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Robert E. and Zelma (Howell) Craig.

Robert was a Vietnam veteran who earned a Bronze Star Medal, Distinguished Flying Cross, a Purple Heart and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry. He was a helicopter pilot, both during the war and in civilian life. Robert owned and operated the Bayview Resort in Tawas City from June 1992 to June 2011. He retired and moved to Canada to reside with his wife.

On Feb. 19, 1993 he married Diane Eileen Bowden, and she survives. Other survivors include his step-son, Wayne Philpott of Toronto, Canada; eight siblings, Donald of Naples, FL, James (Pam) of Warne, NC, Joyce (Ted) Saski of West Bloomfield, Janet (Jed) Macey of Tigard, OR, Nancy Foust of Brentwood, TN, Bonnie (Dan Sylvester) Craig of Central Lake, Corinne (John) Stolaruk of Jackson, and Michael of San Diego, CA; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Dec. 19, at noon at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, Michigan with Deacon Tom Franklin officiating. The family will receive friends Saturday 10-noon. A private burial will be held at a later date in Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea.

In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to St. Joseph Hospice, 475 Christina St. North, Sarnia, Ontario, Canada, N7T 5W3.

Figg-Cameron-2-1Cameron William Figg
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 92, died Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2015 at his home.

He was born Nov. 23, 1923 in Lake Odessa, MI, the son of Hazen and Estella Edna (Rayment) Figg.

Cameron was a draftsman, working for several architectural firms in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and Detroit. He was a member of the Covenant Church in Chelsea, and Chelsea Senior Citizens. He volunteered many hours at Chelsea Community Hospital, and was a Life Member of the auxiliary. Cameron served in the US Marines during WWII, and was a disabled veteran.

On Aug. 31, 1946, he married Earlyne H. Krapf in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and she survives. Cameron is survived by nieces Kay (Tom) Carlson of Walled Lake, Susette (Mark) Freeman of Idaho, and Deborah (Tom) Jenks of Chicago; a nephew, William (Vickie) Figg of Dexter. He was preceded in death by a son, Steven D. Figg; a daughter, Cynthia L. Figg Foster Knepper; his parents; brothers, Hazen Figg, Dean Figg, and Dennard Figg; and sisters Annette Figg and Catherine Balogh.

A memorial service will be held Monday, Dec. 28, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Pastor Anthony Dickerson officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Senior Citizens or the charity of your choice.

Gentz-Barbara-3Barbara Jean Gentz
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Howard City

Age 84, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2015 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital.

She was born Aug. 13, 1931 in Howard City, Michigan, the daughter of Reynold and Ella (Gilson) Gondre.

Barb had lived in Silver Maples for two years, coming from Howard City. She graduated from Howard City Community High School in 1949, and she still had strong connections to her graduating class. When Barbara was raising her children she attended St. Paul United Church of Christ in Pendleton, NY. She was a member of Heritage United Methodist Church in Pierson MI, and most recently attended St. Paul United Church of Christ in Chelsea.

Barbara loved her husband and children, and was very involved with her extended family in Howard City. She enjoyed gardening, bird watching, cooking, her sister Vera’s river bank, and playing cards (and having a “spirited” game).

In 1955, she married Ralph Charles Gentz in Howard City, and he preceded her in death in 1988. She is survived by her son, Steve (Judy) Gentz of Grass Lake; her daughters, Karen (Ken) Hannah of Newfane, NY, Cheryl Borner of Pendelton, NY; a brother, Max Gondre of Howard City; 7 grandchildren, Rachel, Jared, Ashley, Chris, Erin, Nicole, Michael; one great-grandchild, Beck; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Dave Borner, a grandson, Joel Gentz, and 5 siblings.

A memorial service was held Sunday, Dec. 13, 2015, 3 p.m. at Heckman Funeral Home in Howard City MI, with Steve Weinberger officiating. Burial was at Reynolds Township Cemetery.

A celebration service will be held Sunday, May 29, 2016, 1:30 p.m. at Silver Maples of Chelsea. The celebration of her life will be followed by a tree planting and reception.

Memorial contributions may be made to St Paul United Church of Christ, 14600 E. Old US Hwy 12, Chelsea, MI 48118 or Heritage United Methodist Church, 19931 W. Kendaville Road, Pierson, MI 49339.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Barb-at-Universal-Studios-headshot2Barbara Jean Lebel
Lantana, Florida, formerly of Chelsea

Age 53, passed away on Nov. 15, 2015 after a courageous and lengthy battle with cancer.

She was born July 21, 1962 and graduated from Chelsea High School in 1980. She moved to Florida in 1981 and loved it so much that she never came back! She originally worked as a hair stylist and then became a legal secretary and was a member of Journey Church in Boynton Beach.

Barb was a terrific Mary Kay Cosmetics salesperson and enjoyed motorcycle riding. She was a fun loving and adventurous person (think zip lining, and hot air balloon rides), who cherished family, which was demonstrated by planning reunion trips and keeping in contact with distant relatives in Florida.

She is survived by her parents, Michael (Bert) Sweet of Chelsea, MI and Donald (Sally) Proctor of Fairfield Glade, TN; her children, Jeremy (Kara) Lebel and Cody Lebel; one grandchild, Landon, and her significant other, Don Leighton, all of Florida; siblings, David (Lynn) Proctor of Harrison, MI, Lori Iles and Janis (Neil) Horning of Chelsea, MI, Maggy (Dave Nortley) Sweet of Jackson, MI, Phil (Keely) Sweet of San Francisco, CA, and Richard (Lara) Proctor of Orlando, FL; several nieces and nephews as well as step-siblings and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Jeanette “Jan” Sweet and sister, Julie Proctor.

A Memorial Service will be held at the First Congregational Church of Chelsea, 121 E. Middle St., on Sunday, Dec. 27, 2015 at 2 p.m. with Pastor Joe Jeffreys officiating.

Herb-HarperHerbert “Herb” H. Harper
Chelsea, MI, formerly of Ann Arbor

Age 96, died peacefully at his home, at Chelsea Retirement Community, on Monday, Dec. 7, 2015.

He was born Feb. 14, 1919 in Ann Arbor, the son of Elliott and Amelia (Clark) Harper.

Herb served in the Army Air Corp during WWII. He founded Harper Electric in 1955, and worked there until his retirement in 1981. He was an active member of IBEW Local 252. After his retirement, he and Laura bought a motorhome and traveled 3-4 months each winter for close to 30 years. He was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in Ann Arbor, serving on the building committee and as a trustee.

On Aug. 9, 1941, he married Laura M. Leuneberg in Ann Arbor, and she survives. Other survivors include a son, Richard (Karen Luse) Harper of Portland, Maine; a daughter, Mary (Philip) Borkowski of Ann Arbor; 2 grandchildren, Laura (Lauren Mier) Harper and Helen (Brian) Ayotte; 2 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Jack.

A memorial service will be Tuesday, Dec. 29, 1 p.m. at the Main Chapel of Chelsea Retirement Community, with Rev. Tina Zimmerman. A private burial will be held at Washtenong Memorial Gardens in Ann Arbor. Memorial contributions may be made to UMRC Foundation or the charity of your choice.

Arrangements are being handled by Cole Funeral Chapel.

Vincent-StahlVincent P. Stahl
of Pinckney, Michigan

92, died Monday, Dec. 7, 2015 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

He was born July 10, 1924 in Nekoma, North Dakota the son of Peter Stahl and Barbara (Spanier) Stahl. On April 1, 1944, he married Elaine Baker in Riverside California before leaving for World War II. He served in the 1st Battalion 10th Infantry in France and Germany. On Nov. 25, 1944 he was wounded in Germany and awarded the Purple Heart. He was honorably discharged November 9, 1945.

Early years working the homestead developed his hard work ethic and ability to build or repair anything. His whole work career was spent working for Stahl Manufacturing which his brother, Ben, and his many family members helped create a successful business. His developed skills help to engineer and build a basement and tunnel for his brother-in-law’s log cabin.

He loved his 10-acre farm, gardening and raising animals. He enjoyed sharing his love of fishing, camping and hunting with his family. He also shared his love of woodworking, building bird houses and feeders for his family and friends. He enjoyed making and flying Radio Controlled Airplanes with his family.

He is survived by his sister, Ethy Wilhelmi, three daughters, and six sons: Esther (Al) Nixon, Sharon (Richard) Huston, Vincent Paul Jr. (Lisa) Stahl, Wayne (Debby) Stahl, William (Andree) Stahl, Barb Stahl Beuthin, Jim (Donna) Stahl, Dave (Laura) Stahl, and Michael Stahl, 26 grandchildren, 37 great grandchildren, and 3 great great grandchildren.

Vincent was preceded in death by his beloved wife of almost 70 years, a son, Peter Stahl, grandson, Jamie Stahl, four brothers Ed, Ben, Art and Francis, and one sister Elizabeth.

Viewing and funeral mass will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church 10601 Dexter-Pinckney Road, Pinckney, on Friday, Dec. 11.

Memorial donations are suggested to Heartland Hospice Care, 3840 Packard Road, Suite 260 Ann Arbor, Michigan 48108.

Arrangements by Shelters Funeral Home.

Smits-2Ardith L. “Rusty” Smits
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of New Port Richey, FL

Age 100, went peacefully to be with the Lord on Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2015 at her grand-daughter’s home in Chelsea.

She was born May 16, 1915 in Willoughby, Ohio, the daughter of Luther Baker and Ruby Juliette (Burr) Rust.

Rusty was a Registered Nurse, and worked many years at Dr. Sydney Chapin’s medical practice in Dearborn. She moved to Chelsea in 1969 to enjoy her grandchildren and then retired to Florida. She lived in New Port Richey, FL until 2013, when she returned to Michigan to live with her granddaughter.

On July 27, 1939, she married Norman G. Smits in Painesville, Ohio, and he preceded her in death on May 27, 1984. Survivors include one son, Norman James Smits of Chelsea; a daughter, Phyllis Pulver of El Paso, TX; a son-in-law, Robert Benedict Jr. of Chelsea; six grandchildren, Michal (Bob) Enders, Bruce (Sue) Young, Robert (Carol) Benedict III, Sandra (Joseph) Lantis, Susan (Bryan) Markey, Norman (Laurie) Pulver; and 16 great-grandchildren, Tom, David (Summer), Christina, Valerie, Brian, Jason, Sarah, Peter, Luke, Sarah (Justin), Nathan, Robert, Sarah, Katie, Samantha, Emily; 6 great-great-grandchildren, Trevor, Asher, Samantha, Dylan, Ashlyn, Alexander. She was preceded in death by two daughters, Carol Benedict and Ellen Smits, a son-in-law, Robert Pulver, and a grandson, David Pulver.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Dec 4, 11 a.m. at St. Paul United Church of Christ in Chelsea, with Pastor Jim Coyl officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery in Stockbridge. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Thursday, 4-6 p.m. and at the church Friday 10-11 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Youth Haven Ranch.

Bowling,-Nancy-webNancy C. Bowling
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 72, passed away on Thursday, Nov. 26, 2015, at Allegiance Hospital in Jackson.

She was born on Nov. 4, 1943, in Milan, Tennessee, the daughter of William and Wafie (Madery) Perry. Nancy was a member of Memorial Baptist Church in Ravenna, Kentucky. She was very proud to have been a bus aide for Estill County School District in Kentucky for 12 years. She enjoyed sewing, cooking, gardening, flowers, and especially her roses.

On Nov. 23, 1961, she married George L. Bowling in Wayne County, MI, and he survives. Also surviving are five children: Judith (Kevin) Siebeneicher of Texas, Donna Whitaker of Stockbridge, Daniel Bowling of Michigan, Amy (Arron) Higgins of Grass Lake, and Jackie (Johnnie) Patrick of Irvine, KY; 14 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; and her mother-in-law Lucille Bowling of Irvine KY. She was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Chrissy Lynn; her parents; two brothers, Eugene Perry and Billy Perry; one son-in-law, Shayne Whitaker; one grandson, Jackson Patrick; her mother-in-law, Mildred Hart; and her father-in-law, Joe Bowling.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 30, 2015, at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Pastor Adam Summers officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Burial will take place at Sunset Memorial Gardens on Wednesday, Dec. 2, at 1 p.m. in Irvine, KY.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family.

VonWald-WayneWayne Von Wald
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 72, died Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2015 at his home with his family.

He was born June 7, 1943 in Crookston, Minnesota, the son of Leo Ernst and Bertha Pauline (Hanson) Von Wald.

Wayne was a member of Ann Arbor High School class of 1961. He worked as an Electronic Technician at U of M’s Cooley Lab from 1966-1986. Wayne enjoyed writing. He managed two web sites and was working on a book.

On Aug. 4, 1967, he married Karen Marie Nimke at St. Thomas in Ann Arbor, and she survives. Other survivors include two daughters, Lisa (Eric) Kruger of Mansfield Center, CT, Kara (Rob) Kellerman of Grass Lake; four grandchildren, Madelyn and Hannah Kruger, and Sydney and Connor Kellerman. He was preceded in death by a sister, Nancy Nix.

Private family services have been held. Memorial contributions may be made to a cancer society of your choice. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Lentz-HelenaHelena Emma Lentz
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 90, went to be with the Lord Monday, Nov. 23, 2015, peacefully with her family at her side.

She was born Feb. 15, 1925 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Emil and Emma (Marek) Trelenberg.

Helena graduated as Salutatorian of Romulus High School in 1942. During WWII, she worked for the Red Cross at Romulus Air Force Base. After the war, she worked as a private secretary for Great Lakes Steel and Ford Motor Company. After her children were grown, she worked in the Pharmacy and Insurance Office of Ypsilanti State Hospital for 8 years.

She has been a Missouri Synod Lutheran all of her life, and was a Sunday School teacher, member of the Alter Guild, and sang in the choir most of her life. Since coming to Chelsea in 2006, Helena and Harvey were members of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea.

On May 29, 1948, she married Harvey Lentz at St. Paul Lutheran Church in New Boston, and he survives. Other survivors include a daughter, Patricia (Charles) Hillebrand of Atlanta, GA; two sons, Paul (Alice) Lentz of Bowie, MD, Dan (Cynde) Lentz of Pinckney; her twin brother, Kenneth (Shien Hwa) Trelenberg; 5 grandchildren, Stephanie (Judson) Farmer, Kristen (Carl) Cushman; Lisa (Ty) Bosnjak, Michelle (Thomas) Weikle; Dan (Terra) Lentz; 6 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by two sisters, Ida Swantek, Esther Boswell, and a brother Walter Trelenberg.

Funeral services will be held Monday, Nov. 30, 11 a.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea, with Rev. Dale Grimm officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Sunday, Nov. 29, 1-6 p.m., and before the funeral from 10-11 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1515 S Main St., Chelsea, MI 48118.

Case-EvelyneEvelyn Case
Ypsilanti, MI

Age 84, died Monday, Nov. 23, 2015 at Glacier Hills in Ann Arbor.

She was born April 4, 1931 in Cullman, Alabama, the daughter of Herbert and Onnie (Blair) McGriff. Mrs. Case moved to Ypsilanti from Detroit in 1964. She was originally from Cullman, Alabama. She was a member of Ypsilanti Baptist Temple in Ypsilanti, and retired from U of M in 1989.

She married Dennis Case in Detroit, Michigan on Aug. 31, 1957, and he preceded her in death on Dec. 21, 2002. Survivors include one son, Richard (Cindy) of Chelsea; three daughters, Tina Moore of Auburn Hills, Dana (Bob) Davis of Stockbridge, Lisa (Bob) Greca of Ypsilanti and 6 grandchildren (David and Cassidy Case, Daniel Case, Stephanie Case, Taylor and Trevor Greca), her best friend, Fran Rousseau and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, 5 brothers (Huey, Dwaine, Roy, Charles, Junior), 2 sisters (Nell, Sue) and one son-in-law (Bob Moore).

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, Dec. 1 at 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Pastor Roger Luther and James Clay officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Monday 3-8 p.m. and Tuesday 10-11 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Michigan Heart or the American Diabetes Association.

Maurer,-Daniel-webDaniel Dean “Danny” Maurer
of Grass Lake, Michigan

Age 64, passed away at the University of Michigan Hospital on Nov. 21, 2015, surrounded by his family.

He was born the son of Russell and Virginia (Bender) Maurer on Feb. 5, 1951. On July 9, 1983 he married Monica Harat and she survives. Danny served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. His family meant the world to him and he would do anything for them. He was a very happy go lucky man who had a positive outlook on life. He enjoyed watching TV, listening to the radio and playing the drums. Danny loved his jeans and new Nike shoes. Danny was a man of his work and loved his job at and the people of St. Mary Catholic Church.

In addition to his wife he is survived by his children Daniel (Brooke) Maurer and Sarah (Nate Dawson) Maurer; his grandchildren Gabrielle, Lucas and Logan. Also surviving is his brother Russell (Rosemary) Maurer. Danny was preceded in death by his parents.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, on Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2015, at 11 a.m. with the V. Rev. William Canon Turner officiating. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Monday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. with a Vigil service at 7:30 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Maurer family.

Frank John Toth Jr.
Gregory, MI

Age 58, passed away Friday, Nov. 20, 2015 at his home, following a long struggle with brain cancer.

He was born March 27, 1957 in Frankfort, Germany, the son of Frank John and Edeltraut Anna (Drossler) Toth. Frank was a licensed plumber and welder with Local 190 of Ann Arbor. He enjoyed baseball, football, playing guitar, music, Nascar, and outdoor activities.

He is survived by his wife of five years, Dawn. Other survivors include two children, Frank J. Toth of Jackson and Paige Toth of Jackson, a step-son, Cameron Vasher of Grayling; a sister, Theresa (Kevin) Lewandowski; a granddaughter, Alexandria; and several nieces and nephews. A special thanks to nephew Jeffrey Picklesimer for assisting with care during Frank’s final months.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, Nov. 24, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Deacon Thomas Franklin officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea.

The family will receive friends Monday 2-4 and 6-8 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to The Hermelin Brain Tumor Center at Henry Ford Hospital.

Olson-MargaretMargaret Jane Olson
of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of E. Jordan, Michigan

Age 86, died Thursday, Nov. 19, 2015 at her daughter’s home in Chelsea. She was born Feb. 28, 1929 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the daughter of Roy and Raechel (Frick) Scott.

Margaret attended Boyne City High School with the class of 1946. She worked as a bookkeeper, and later in RV sales. Margaret belonged to the Presbyterian Church, and was baptized in Boyne City. She was a former member of the Order of Eastern Star and the Rebekah Lodge in Pinckney. Margaret loved cooking, doing crossword puzzles, playing Scrabble, and was an avid reader.

On Oct. 13, 1955, she married Donald Lee Olson in Petoskey, and he preceded her in death on March 14, 2014. Survivors include a daughter, Lynn Olson of Chelsea; a son, Jim (Karen) Wicker of Hamburg; son-in-law and daughter-in-law Doug and Phyllis “Jeannie” Sumner of East Jordan; 9 grandchildren, James, Kenneth, Jeffrey, Mindy, Jenna, Sheri, Kimberly, Jon and Krista; many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Eric Olson, and a daughter, Marjean Laws.

A memorial service will be held in the spring at her home on the Jordan River. Memorial contributions may be made to the Michigan Great Lakes Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Read,-Kerry-Shawn-webKerry “Shawn” Read
of Dexter, MI

Age 51, passed away at the University of Michigan Hospital on Nov. 14, 2015.

He was born in Corning, Arkansas on Dec. 3, 1963 the son of Jerry and Bonnie (Bolen) Read. Shawn had lived in the Dexter area for over 40 years and graduated from Dexter High School.

On June 23, 1990 he married Susan R. Spielman in Hamburg, MI, and she survives. Also surviving are two children, Cody and Amanda Read; his mother of Arkansas; two brothers, Kendall (Rhonda) Read of South Lyon and Kip (Leslie) Read of Ypsilanti; three sisters-in-law: Heather (Neal Brady) Dare of Whitmore Lake, Crissy (Dan Walters) Schrock of Dexter, and Jenny (Billy) Wentworth of Pinckney; nieces and nephews: Caitlen, Garrett, Bronc, Samantha, Jonah, Ashton, Hunter, Ashley, Jessica, Nick, Kyle, Hannah, Billy, Alexis and Adam; and parents-in-law, David and Nancy Spielman of Dexter. He was preceded in death by his father.

Shawn was a loving husband and father, who enjoyed spending time with his family, especially sharing his passion for the outdoors. Shawn’s artistic creativity showed in his “Mancave” where he enjoyed cooking and making memories for family and friends. He enjoyed spending his time hunting and fishing lakes and rivers, and he especially enjoyed his Alaska fishing trips.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 21, 2015, at the Dexter United Methodist Church with Rev. Matt Hook officiating. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Memorial contributions may be made to the family for a memorial park bench at Hudson Mills and exceeding funds to be used for College Education expenses.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Johnson_VirginiaVirginia Ann Johnson
Chelsea, Michigan

Virginia Ann (Hathaway) Johnson passed away in her home on Nov. 8 at the age of 89.

One of the “Greatest Generation,” Jinny was born Sept. 16, 1926 in Holt, MI and lived through the era of the great depression and WWII. At a post war dance in Six Lakes, her beautiful auburn hair attracted the notice of her true love, Gilford and they were married on Sept. 7, 1946.

Jinny and Gil spent their honeymoon years in Leland, an area she loved to revisit. They moved several times before finally settling in Chelsea the summer of 1968. She was an assistant sportswear buyer for Milliken’s Department store in Traverse City. She also worked several years in the Chelsea State Farm office.

Jinny was a born leader and organizer. Energetic and spirited, she served as President for several local groups including The Womens Club of Chelsea, United Methodist Sarah Circle and The Scarlett Belles Red Hat Society. Jinny was a member of the Chelsea First United Methodist Church. She acted as a Girl Scout leader for each of her daughters. She was an avid reader, a talented baker and decorator. Jinny loved watching sports, especially U of M, playing cards and above all, her family.

A true matriarch, she gathered them together for numerous reunions, holidays and retreats. Her unfailing support and lively sense of fun will be sadly missed by her family.

She is survived by five children: Nancy (Tom) Mumby of California, Sally (Steve) Miklos of Leland, Maggie (William) Miller of Linden, Perry Johnson of Traverse City and Sara (Mark) Oetting of Texas; 15 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Nov. 13, 1 p.m., at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Rev. Joy Barrett officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea. Visitation will take place at the funeral home on Thursday from 4-7 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea District Library.

Mast-Gladys-CroppedGladys Mae Mast
Chelsea, MI, formerly of Punta Gorda, FL and Ypsilanti, MI

Age 95, died Friday, Oct. 23, 2015 at Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born July 9, 1920 in Ypsilanti, Michigan, the daughter of Paul and Nellie (Casselberry) Chapman.

Gladys graduated from Ypsilanti High School in 1939, and then attended beauty school. She worked in Ypsilanti and worked at the Blue Wig in Ann Arbor for many years. Gladys and Rod built a home on Belleville Lake and had many friends there. In 1980, Gladys and Rod retired to Punta Gorda, Florida, where they enjoyed boating and fishing. Gladys loved to cook for her family and friends. She was a very active member of the Peace River Sail and Power Squadron in Punta Gorda. They left many friends when hurricane Charlie destroyed their home and sent them back to Michigan in 2004. Gladys was very close to her family who helped her through good and bad times.

On Sept. 21, 1941, she married Rodney Mast, and he preceded her in death on July 12, 2006. Survivors include her nieces and nephews, Charles (Marsha) Ash of Anchorage, AK; Steven (Masae) Ash of Billings, MT; Cynthia (Richard) Bousley of Dexter, Ralph (Nancy) Chapman of Ypsilanti, Mark (Shirlee) Chapman of Ypsilanti, Linda (Jack) Freeman of Mt Pleasant, MI, Nancy (Joe) Kooperman of Brighton, MI, Gary Wolter of MI; her sisters-in-law Jean (Fred) Wolter of Brighton, and Donna Chapman of Ypsilanti; as well as many great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother, Paul Chapman, her sister, Helen (William) Coxford, her nephew, Craig Chapman.

A memorial service will be held Monday, Nov. 23, at 11 a.m. at the Chelsea Retirement Community Chapel, with Rev. Joy Barrett officiating. The family will receive friends Monday the hour before the memorial service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Chelsea First United Methodist Church or Silver Maples of Chelsea.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Thibeault,-Francis-webFrancis Xavier Thibeault
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 90, passed away at his home on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2015.

He was born on Aug. 4, 1925, in Ecorse, MI, the son of Charles M. and Leona Thibeault. On Aug. 30, 1947, he married Ilene Kathleen McMillan in Ecorse and she preceded him in death on Aug. 25, 2015.

Francis served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was a bus driver for Taylor Schools. Francis and Ilene were members of the “Wolverine” parish. He was a straight shooter, never beat around the bush, and will be remembered for his dry sense of humor. He was everyone’s friend and “go-to man,” and was loved by all. He was a great dad and grandfather.

He is survived by his daughter, Veronica (Lenard) Kass; his grandchildren: Randy (Kim) Windham, Sean (Corinne) Kass, and Stefanie Kass; his great-grandchildren: Bailey, Bryce, Cash, Croy; his nephews, Charles and Gary, and niece Karen Kane. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his son Douglas M. Thibeault.

Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 9, 2015, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Humane Society of Huron Valley.

Clayton-LoraLora Joyce Clayton
Howell, MI

Age 81, died Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2015 at Howell, Michigan.

She was born Dec. 19, 1933 in Harlan County, Kentucky, the daughter of Robert and Nora (Anderson) Barton. Lora attended the Baptist Church. She married Charles Clayton, who preceded her in death.

She is survived by her sons, James (Kim) Szegi, of Highland, MI, Richard “Karl” (Trisha) Szegi, of Jacksonville, FL; her daughter, Nancy Jo (Dennis) Irish of Chelsea; 7 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Jerry and Johnny Barton.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Nov. 7, 1 p.m. at Letcher Funeral Home in Whitesburg, Kentucky with Rev. Steve Stamper officiating. Burial will follow at the American Legion Cemetery in Whitesburg, Kentucky. The family will receive friends on Friday, Nov. 6 from 6-9 p.m.

Local arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Rowe-David-1Duane Rowe
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 94, died Sunday, Nov. 1, 2015 at Ganton’s Countryside Care Center.

He was born Jan. 6, 1921 in Lyndon Township, Michigan, the son of Floyd D. and Selma M. Rowe.

Duane spent his working life as a farmer, well driller, and Master Plumber. He had a study group for the Masters exam at his kitchen table in 1959 with two other local plumbers, Mr. Herman and Mr. Robert Shears. Duane was a past Grand Knight of the Chelsea Knights of Columbus Council 3092. He was a charter member and served as the first full term Grand Knight after it was started in 1947.

In 1966, Duane was appointed by Governor George Romney to the Michigan Water Resource Commission, Huron Basin, Michigan Department of Public Health. In 1969-70, Duane and Virginia were co-chairs of the Michigan Well Drillers Association annual convention in Lansing and Grand Rapids. Duane and his father, Floyd, operated Rowe Plumbing, Heating and Well Drilling until Floyd’s death and Duane’s retirement in 1981. He spent his later years suffering from Lewy Body Dementia under the loving care of Ganton’s Countryside Care Center, Jackson, MI.

He married Virginia R. Burg on April 14, 1941 at St. Mary Catholic Church, and she preceded him in death on Jan. 7, 2015. Survivors include his sons, David (Joanne) Rowe, Douglas (Shirley) Rowe; his daughter, Lowene (Jeff) Hughes; son-in-law Ronald Lorenzen; all of Grass Lake; eight grandchildren, Daniel, John, Darin, Patrick, Kurt, Kelly, Rodney, Dwana; 23 great-grandchildren; 7 great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Jeannene Lorenzen, and a sister, Madelyn Bury.

A Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, Nov. 21, 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with the Very Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Waterloo. The family will receive friends from 10-11 a.m. before the funeral. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church or St. Louis Center, Chelsea.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Robbins,-Eric-photoEric James Robbins
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 17, died on Oct. 31, 2015.

He was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan on April 9, 1998, the son of James and Maura (McNally) Robbins. Eric was a senior at Chelsea High School and had lived in Chelsea his entire life. He attended St. Mary Catholic Church where he received his first communion, was confirmed, and attended youth group.

He enjoyed longboarding, playing lacrosse, and especially boating and spending time at the family cottage at Harsens Island. Eric had a deep love for all of his many friends. He also held a special fondness for animals.

He is survived by his parents of Chelsea, one sister Carolyn Robbins, his grandparents Kenneth and Carolyn Robbins of Orlando, aunts and uncles: John (Deanna) Robbins of Chelsea, Paul Robbins of Orlando, and Christopher McNally of New York, and two cousins Abigail and Greta Robbins of Chelsea, Michigan. Eric also had a loving extended family in Michigan, New York, and Florida. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Christopher and Mary McNally.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2015, 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea with V. Rev. Dr. William J. Turner presiding. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. with Vigil services at 7 p.m. Visitation also at the church on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

CraftMaryEllenMary Ellen Craft
Ann Arbor, MI

Age 74, died unexpectedly on Friday, Oct. 30, 2015.

She was born March 4, 1941 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Awbery and Ruth Elizabeth (Mattison) Whitfield.

Mary Ellen graduated from Pioneer High School in 1959. She most recently worked at Busch’s in Dexter, and previously at Lowes in Scio Township, Sarns, and the Ann Arbor Police Department. Mary Ellen loved playing cards, working puzzles, and was also an avid reader and hot air balloon enthusiast.

She is survived by three sons, Frealin (Lisa) Craft II of Augusta, GA, Randy Craft of Ann Arbor, Jeffery (Connie) Craft of Pinckney; one daughter, Tresa (John) Jex of Madison Heights; and their father, Frealin Craft of Manchester; four sisters, Patsy Hentz of Ann Arbor, Sally Peer of Washington DC, Nancy Hoxie of West Branch, Lucy (Doug) Kuligowski of MN; two sisters-in-law, Letha Atkinson, Josephine (Harold) Murphy; 15 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a brother, David Whitfield, a great-granddaughter, Natalie Rose Clair, her parents, a brother-in-law, Paul Craft, and her mother and father-in-law, Mary and Carl Craft.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, Nov. 3, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Vaughn McCoy officiating. Burial will be at Rowe’s Corner Cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday between 5-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the family to help with funeral expenses.

Duffey_GeraldGerald E. Duffey “Duff”
Chelsea, MI, formerly of Warren

Age 83, died Friday, Oct. 30, 2015 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor. He was born Oct. 12, 1932 in Detroit, the son of Edward Nicholas and Genevieve “Alice” (Boland) Duffey.

Duff was a test and field engineer for Federal Mogul for 38.5 years in Detroit and Ann Arbor before retiring in December of 1994. He was a US Army Veteran, and he served in the Korean War from 1949-1952 in the 7th Infantry, earning the Purple Heart and the Korean Service Medal with 3 bronze battle stars.

Duff spent his young days in Wolverine, MI with his grandparents, where he learned to enjoy hunting, fishing, bear watching. Duff took pride in landscaping and taking care of his home, and even won a home tour award. He loved dogs, and had more than 20 pet dogs over the years, including his current dog, Maggie

On July 4, 1953, he married Barbara Hines at Our Lady Queen-Heaven Church in Detroit, and she survives. Other survivors include his daughters, Debra Brown of Clarkston, Sheri (Mike) Cicirelli of Grass Lake; a sister, Shirley (Robert) Hall; sister-in-law, Leah Duffey; two grandchildren, Christine (Mike) Lazarecki, Michael Cicirelli; a great-granddaughter, Kayden; and several nieces and nephews, including Kim Kaminski Ilyasov who lived with them for several years. He was preceded in death by his son, John, in 2015; his brother, John; his parents; his step-mother, Lillian “Lee” (Karkota) Duffey; and his step-father, Romie Bishop.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, Nov. 5, 1 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Deacon Tom Franklin officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends Wednesday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., and Thursday from noon-1 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the family. `

Trerice_MildredMildred Sue Trerice

Born in Coble, Tennessee on Nov. 16, 1919 and passed away at Towsley Village, Chelsea, Michigan on Oct. 21, 2015.

During her almost 96 years the world was blessed with one of the kindest, gentlest souls to grace God’s earth.

She was born in a rural area to Willie C. and Sammie Dee Shepard. Life was not always easy for Mom and, being the oldest daughter, she was often given the responsibility of looking after her younger siblings. All but her youngest brother Joe are gone now, but he, brothers Norris and Pete, and sister Arlene each benefited from the loving touch of Mildred. Though these duties may have robbed her of some of her childhood, they certainly prepared her well for her own family which was to come a few years down the road.

Cooking, cleaning, and raising children became second nature to Mom, especially the cooking. Children, grandchildren, relatives and neighbors never went hungry. Favorite foods of her grandchildren and great grandchildren were spaghetti, fried chicken, huge peanut butter cookies and any kind of pie you could name. They were always served with hugs, kisses and great love.

Mom moved to the Detroit area in the early 40s as part of the migration of many southerners to the plants opening in preparation of the probable war. She lived with an aunt and uncle in Van Dyke, Michigan right across the street from a young man who, coincidentally, was living with an aunt and uncle of his own. Arthur Trerice II and Mildred must have seen something in each other they liked because they were married on Aug. 21, 1942.

Dad soon went off to war while Mom continued to work at home and save money to purchase a house.

When the war ended, Dad and Mom bought their first small home in Van Dyke, Michigan. Thomas and Arthur III were born in 1946 and 1948 respectively while they lived there. In 1950, the family moved to their long-term residences in Madison Heights, Michigan. James was born in 1951 to complete the family.

Mom continued in her role of homemaker as the 50s and 60s rolled by, though she occasionally took on seasonal work outside the home to buy Christmas presents for her little boys. We would remain her little boys for the rest of her life.
Time goes by quickly. Little boys grew up, married and moved away. Dad passed in 1982. Mom stayed at the Madison Heights home, greatly aided by her neighbor and best friend Ruth. They went on many shopping sprees and fun outings together. Both had a passion for bowling and spent many happy afternoons in a women’s bowling league.

Mom’s memory started to fade in the late 90s, which potentially gave her a second chance for the childhood she never had. At first, she moved in with her son Art and daughter-in-law Ann Marie in Dexter, Michigan, and eventually into Chelsea Retirement Community’s Towsley Village. We will always have a special place in our hearts for the Towsley angels who provided such tender care for Millie during her final years.

Surviving Mildred are her three sons, Thomas (Judy), Arthur (Ann Marie), James, brother Joe (Claudette), six wonderful grandchildren and eight beautiful great-granddaughters.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service is scheduled at North Lake United Methodist Church, 14111 North Territorial Road, Chelsea, MI 48118 on Friday, Nov. 20, 2015 at 1 p.m. A luncheon will follow in the fellowship hall.

Memorial contributions can be made to the UMRC Foundation at 805 W. Middle Street, Chelsea, Michigan 48118.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Dad's-obituary-photoLawrence Ogden of Chelsea, Michigan
Died Oct. 22, 2015, 18 days short of his 96th birthday.

The oldest of three children, he was born to Lawrence Beldon Ogden and Ruth Montgomery Ogden, Nov. 9, 1919 in Maryville, MO.

He spent 18 days short of six years in service in field artillery and signal corps, achieving the rank of Captain and earning four Bronze Stars for his time in service. He then returned to school, receiving degrees in Geology; a B.S. from University of Tulsa in 1948 and an M.S. from University of Wisconsin/Madison in 1950.

After one year as a Geologist with Continental Oil Company, he suffered through one year teaching high school math in Idaho Springs, CO. He then became an instructor at Colorado School of Mines where he received his D.S. in Geology in 1958 and continued to teach at Mines until 1963. While at the School of Mines he did extensive summer geological field work, individual projects in most of the western states for engineering firms, oil companies and governmental agencies, which included determining the location for NORAD.

He was recruited to EMU in 1963 from which he retired in 1989.

Off campus in Michigan he enjoyed traveling with his family in the western states and Europe, reading mysteries and counted cross-stitching mostly of local, colorful birds, which he designed and stitched. He will be remembered for his cryptic observations, one line zingers and “He was always at his best when he was at his worst.” “One could count on stimulating, interesting and authentic interactions. He was truly that gentle spirit with a bright mind.”

He is survived by his daughters, both of Chelsea, Marlene Dusbiber (John) and Susan Ogden (James Lancioni), granddaughters Caitlin Dusbiber, New Hudson, MI, Maggie Dusbiber, Mount Pleasant, SC, Mia Latour (Justin), Grand Rapids, MI and Rosa Lancioni, Fountain, CO. He was predeceased in death by two brothers and his beloved wife Irene Proctor Ogden.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to either Arbor Hospice or a charity of your choice. Cremation has taken place and a gathering to celebrate his life will be held at the Comfort Inn in Chelsea, MI on Nov. 8, 2015 from 1-4 p.m.

Sandra Yvonne Myer
Northville, Michigan, formerly of Chelsea, Hudson and Ann Arbor

Age 78, died Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2015 at her home surrounded by family.

She was born in 1937 in Portland, Oregon, the daughter of Harry B. and Mary Jane Eberts.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, John H. Myer, as well as six brothers, four sisters, and one grandson. Sandra is survived by her seven children: John (Heather) Myer of Rochester, Mary Bahrami of Seattle, WA, Yvonne Brinkman, Scott (Kim) Myer of Ypsilanti, Elizabeth (Mark) Earl of Hillman, Michelle (Ralph) Smith of Northville, and Sandra (Dennis) Melvin of Chelsea; one brother, Ronnie Eberts of Anniston, AL; eleven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Burial will take place in a private ceremony at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Michigan, 25200 Telegraph Road, Suite100, Southfield, MI 48033.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.

Edgar,-Karen-webKaren J. Edgar
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 59, passed away at her home on Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2015.

She was born on Feb. 14, 1956, in Detroit, MI, the daughter of Norman and Oletta (Burry) Lyon. Karen had lived in the area for the past 20 years, coming from Royal Oak, MI, and was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea where she also served as a Eucharistic Minister.

She worked as a Registered Nurse in Labor and Delivery at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor and also Pontiac, had been a Girl Scout Leader, and volunteered at Faith in Action. She loved spending time with her family and going on family vacations that included rock climbing, white water rafting, horseback riding, exploring caves, and backpacking.

On Sept. 22, 1979, she married Douglas Barry Edgar at Shrine Church in Royal Oak and he survives. Also surviving are two children, Megan (Jake) St. George of Royal Oak and Bradley Edgar (Caitlin Wolf) of Howell; her brother, Keith (Terri) Lyon of Rochester Hills; her cousin, Pam Shults; her aunt, Sandra (Leo) Petit; two brothers-in-law, Scott (Cathy) Edgar of Muskegon and Vance (Laurie) Edgar of Clarkston; and five nieces: Natalie Lyon, Erin Ricco, Lindsay Brown, Katie Edgar, and Bonnie Mazzei, and one nephew: Ben Edgar. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2015 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with V. Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Tuesday, Oct. 27, from 2-4 and 5-8 p.m. with a Vigil and Rosary Service at 7 p.m., and at the church on Wednesday from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will take place at Roseland Park Cemetery in Berkley, MI.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Faith in Action or St. Louis Center.

Fallot,-Robin-webRobin Rentschler Fallot
of Grass Lake, Michigan

Age 55, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2015.

She was born on Dec. 11, 1959, in Ann Arbor, MI, the daughter of J.F. and Dian (Hague) Rentschler. Robin loved kids and she was a school bus driver for the Stockbridge and Chelsea School Districts for many years, also helping with lunchtime at the schools. She enjoyed doing crafts and she loved her family and friends.

Surviving are her children: Shawn (Manda) Fallot of Chelsea, Kelly Fallot (Trevor Koepplinger) of Chesaning, Zach Fallot (Marissa Ledesma) of Pinckney, and Ross Fallot of Chelsea; her parents, J.F. and Dian Rentschler of Tecumseh; her sisters, Dawn (Alan) Reau of Britton and Holly Rentschler of Ann Arbor; and several nieces and nephews.

A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Thursday, Oct. 22, 2015, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Private burial will take place at a later date at Washtenong Memorial Park in Ann Arbor. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family.

Hofmeister-StevenWebsite2Steven Wayne Hofmeister
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Age 56, went to be with the Lord, Friday, Oct. 16, 2015 at his home.

He was born June 5, 1959 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Everett Wayne and Martha J. (Shanklin) Hofmeister.

Steve graduated from Huron High School in 1977, where he played football. He was a cook, at various places including Denny’s in Ann Arbor, Gina’s Cafe, and TA on Baker Road. Steve was a member of Faith Baptist Church. Even on a personal level he enjoyed cooking and making food for others. Steve was an avid U of M football and basketball fan.

Survivors include two sons, Mitchell Hofmeister of Grass Lake, Roman Hofmeister of Dexter; and their mother Jennifer Mitchell; two sisters, Janice Hofmeister, Ann (James) Hess; a granddaughter, Aubrey Hofmeister and a grandson, Ryder Hofmeister. He was preceded in death by his mother.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2015, at 11a.m. at Faith Baptist Church, 4030 Kalmbach Road, Chelsea, MI 48118, with Pastor Adam Summers officiating. Burial will be at Washtenong Memorial Park, Ann Arbor, Michigan.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel on Tuesday from 5-9 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Faith Baptist Church.

Anderson-CharlotteCharlotte Ann (Houston) Anderson
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 77, died Friday, Oct. 9, 2015 at Chelsea Retirement Community due to complications of carcinoid carcinoma.

She was born Nov. 24, 1937 in Kirksville, Missouri, the daughter of Paul and Luella (Meyer) Houston.

Charlotte was a very passionate person who always threw herself into things 110 percent. She had three main passions in life. First was helping hearing-impaired children, including her son Paul. She earned a Master’s Degree in Special Education from EMU focusing on hearing impairment. She taught deaf children at Wines School in Ann Arbor. Second, she fell in love with the American West at a young age, and especially loved the Two Grey Hills Trading Post on the Navajo Reservation in New Mexico. Third, she was very active in the Spinner’s Flock of Ann Arbor, and enjoyed encouraging young people to spin and weave natural fibers, and to carry on the craft.

Charlotte was politically active in Sharon Township, where she was instrumental in organizing the group “Stewards of Sharon”, and served as Chairman of the Zoning Board of Review. She was an expert seamstress (her Bachelor’s Degree was in Home Economics Education), she was an avid reader, and she enjoyed jewelry making as a hobby. She was a very good patient advocate for her mother, her daughter, and for herself during their final illnesses.

On June 6, 1959, she married Albert Anderson in Sedalia, Missouri, and he survives. Other survivors include two sons, Albert F. “Andy” (Margaret) Anderson, III of Muskego, WI, Paul (Faye) Anderson of Ann Arbor; a son-in-law, Dennis Higgins of Chelsea; and 5 grandchildren, Albert F. “Bert” Anderson IV, Vincent Anderson; Leela Anderson, Frank Anderson; and A.J. Higgins. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Mary Higgins, and her parents.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Oct. 31, 1 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Pastor Jim Coyl officiating. Memorial contributions can be made to the Charlotte Anderson Memorial Fund, 14689 Waldo Road, Chelsea, MI. The funds will be used to encourage and support young spinners and weavers through Two Grey Hills in New Mexico and The Spinners Flock in Southeast Michigan.

Foster,-Justin-webJustin Jamie Foster
of Brooklyn, Michigan

Age 31, passed away on Friday, Oct. 9, 2015.

He was born on June 13, 1984, in Ann Arbor, MI, the son of Jamie Michael Foster and Crystal Ann Coleman.

Justin was a hard worker and was a drywall finisher for Local 514. He liked spending time outdoors, hunting, fishing, loved animals, and he had a green thumb, enjoying his garden. He was also an artist, enjoyed drawing, and was very theatrical. Family was very important to him and he was great with kids. Justin was a warm, happy person, and he was a loving father and a great son.

Surviving is his mother Crystal Coleman (Rick Stewart) and his father Jamie Foster; his daughter Teagan Marie Foster and Teagan’s mother Nikki Wilson; his sisters, Kristin Foster and Ashley Foster; his nephew Blake Dalton; paternal grandmother Ruth Foster, maternal grandmother Sandra Coleman (George Clickner), and maternal grandfather Ronald (Mary) Coleman; his aunts and uncles: Carrie Coleman (Carmer Slocum), Joseph Ebersole, Becky Ridge, and Liz Cole; his cousins: Garrett and Quinten Ebersole, Ronnie and Adam Cole, Corey and Cody Masten, Chris Kelly, Jacob, Aaron, and Gabriel DuBoise; and special friends Natasha Robinson and Kaitlin Bragman. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather Mick Foster, aunt Amy Patania, uncle Mike Foster, cousin Levi Coleman, and best friend Jeff Ridge.

A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2015, from 1-8 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea. Expressions of sympathy may be made to an Educational Fund for Justin’s daughter Teagan Marie Foster.

Minix-Lillie-webLillie Minix
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 90, passed away on Oct. 6, 2015.

She was born on Jan. 15, 1925, in Hazard, Kentucky, the daughter of A.D. and Addie (Robinson) Minix.

Lillie enjoyed cooking, flower gardens, birds, watching westerns and television. She loved riding on the golf cart but never drove or had a driver’s license. Most of all she loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and always had sweets and popsicles around for the kids.

Surviving are her children: Paul (Karen) Fletcher, Wanda Wilks, Connie Wade, and Darvin Fletcher, 9 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, eight siblings, and her son-in-law Steven Wilks.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 9, 2015, at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Pastor Bobby Toler officiating. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery in Stockbridge. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until the time of service. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family.

Minnie Mae Erskine
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Moran, MI

Age 85, died Sunday, Oct. 4, 2015 at her home.

She was born April 14, 1930 in Monroe, MI, the daughter of Kenneth R. and Harriet J. (Stofer) Piatt.

Minnie graduated from Chelsea High School in 1948. She worked in the test kitchen at Chelsea Milling Company for many years, retiring in the early 1980s. Minnie attended the First United Methodist Church in Chelsea. After her retirement, she moved to Moran, MI, then came back to Chelsea in 2013. She was an avid reader.

On Oct. 16, 1948, she married Glenn Erskine in Toledo, and he survives. Other survivors include two sons, Ronald (Deborah) Erskine of Chelsea, Donald (Debb) Erskine of Manchester; a daughter, Bonnee Brown of Colorado Springs, CO; 11 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; 1 brother Jerry (Pat) Piatt of Chelsea; 1 sister, Phyllis Stepp of Brighton; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by 3 sisters, Shirley Johnson, Betty Wahl, Mary Lou Brown, and a brother, Kenneth Piatt.

No memorial services are planned. Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Chelsea or the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Nilsen_Kathryn

Kathryn Edith (White) Nilsen
Grass Lake, MI

Age 70, died Saturday, Oct. 3, 2015 at the University of Michigan Hospital.

She was born Dec. 28, 1944 in Chelsea, Michigan, the daughter of Arthur and Maxine (Irwin) White.

Kathy loved her family, friends her church and the Lord. She also loved history and researching things! She researched her family history, gardening tips, the Bible pretty much anything she wanted answers to. She was kept going by her loving family (especially 3 sweet granddaughters) friends and her church.

She did love the work she did at the Law Library and she always had a neat story about a book that was sent somewhere fun. She had a bit of time to travel to California and overseas to Europe the last 6 years.

She would find the good in everyone and was always kind even when she was frustrated (which wasn’t often). She would give anyone the shirt off her back and buy them two more if they needed it. She was an amazing Mother, Grandmother, friend, cousin, etc. The world is a much better place because she was here!

Even though it seemed early it was her time to go home to her Lord and savior and her beloved husband Ralph.

On April 6, 1974, she married Ralph Gunner Nilsen in San Francisco, and he preceded her in death on April 6, 2008. She is survived two daughters; Corinna A. Nilsen of Pacifica, CA and Laura K. (Kevin) Osborne of Kalamazoo, MI; and three grandchildren, Ruah, Lillian and Mariah.
A memorial service will be held Friday, Oct. 9, 2 p.m. at Chelsea First United Methodist Church, with Rev. Joy Barrett officiating. The family will receive friends at the church Thursday 6-8 p.m. and Friday 1-2 p.m. Burial will take place at North Sharon cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea First United Methodist Church.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Paula Jeanne Wilson
Belleville, MI

Age 67, died Sunday, Oct. 4, 2015 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor.

She was born May 8, 1948 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Richard William and Betty (Sadler) Wilson.

Paula was a member of the Ann Arbor Eagles #2154 for 20 years, where  she worked as a waitress and bartender.

Survivors include a son, Mark (Karen Wikman) Ely of Ypsilanti; two brothers, Charles Wilson and Rick Wilson; 6 grandchildren, Ashley (Matthew) Ely, Kyle Ely, Danielle (Curtis) Warren, Josh (Dianne) Trim, Robert Wikman, Kirk Hissong; 6 great-grandchildren, Avery, Tyler, Payton, Hannah, Ashlynn, Hailee

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Oct. 10, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with visitation from 9-11 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to her family.

Roger W. Steffens
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 70, died suddenly Friday, Sept. 25, 2015 in Jackson County due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident. He was born June 9, 1945 in Farmington, Michigan, the son of Irvin W. and Gladys (Watson) Steffens.

Roger attended Chelsea High School. He farmed with his father all his life. Roger was an avid hunter and fisherman, and belonged to several hunting associations. He was active in tractor pulling. Roger was an animal lover, and he won many awards and trophies for showing his dogs. Survivors include his mother of Chelsea; two brothers, Sherwin and Herschel, many cousins, and a special friend, Hattie Davis.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Oct. 2, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, with Rev. Tina Zimmerman officiating. Burial will follow at Vermont Cemetery, Sylvan Township. The family will receive friends Thursday from 6-8 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.

Rohde_RudolphRudolph “Rudy” Harold Rohde
Grass Lake, Michigan

Age 90, died Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2015 at his home.

He was born Nov. 25, 1924 in York Township, Michigan, the son of George and Matilda (Neebling) Rohde.

Rudy attended Salem Grove United Methodist Church. He was a member of Michigan Labor Union Local 503. In his younger years he worked as a farm hand on various farms. Rudy then went to work for Don and Warren Porath, the King Sealy Plant for 10 years, Paul Peltcs Construction, O’Hara Construction, and finally Manchester Stamping. He enjoyed farming and trapping for fur.

On Jan. 22, 1949, he married Elsie Peterson in the Parsonage at Salem Grove United Methodist Church, and she survives. Other survivors include two sons, Donald (Donna) of Grass Lake, Randy (Becky) of Grass Lake; three brothers, Robert (Avalene), Alvin, and Larry(Carolyn); a grandson, Timothy (Katie); 3 great-grandchildren, Brandon, Allie, and Dylan. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Ruben and Ernest.

Funeral services will be held Monday, Sept. 28, 1 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Pastor Amy Triebwasser officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Waterloo, Michigan.

The family will receive friends Sunday from 2-5 p.m. The family would like to thank Ashley and Eowyn from Great Lakes Caring Hospice for their care. Memorial contributions may be made to Salem Grove United Methodist Church or Great Lakes Hospice.

Valle, Joseph Anthony
Plymouth, Michigan

Age 91, died peacefully at University of Michigan Hospital on Sept. 10, 2015.

Joe was born on April 4, 1924 in Youngstown, Ohio to Floriano and Spreanza (Valentino) Valle. He was the younger brother of Theresa Williams and Frances Ameduri. Joe was a first generation American and was proud to be “full blooded Italian.”

In 1942, Joe graduated from Rayen High School in Youngstown and later from Youngstown College. He served as an Army Air Corps medic during WWII in China, Burma and India. After the war, Joe married Bette M. Funkhouser. She preceded him in death in 1975. Bette and Joe raised 3 sons as he pursued his career at Republic Rubber in Youngstown and Aeroquip Corporation in Jackson, MI.

Joe is survived by his longtime companion, Carol Mook of Plymouth; his sons, Joseph A. Valle, Jr. (Mary) of Ann Arbor, Robert Valle (Ann) of Chelsea, MI, and Jeffrey Valle of Sycamore, IL; 4 grandchildren, Laura, Nick, Alex and Maggie Valle; as well as 3 great granddaughters.

Cremation has taken place, he fought the good fight.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Deppner,-HankHenry “Hank” Deppner
Of Chelsea, MI

Age 88, passed away at his home on Sept.19, 2015.

He was born in Detroit, Michigan on Sept.2, 1927 the son of Frederick and Elizabeth (Heberling) Deppner. On Oct. 16, 1959 he married Barbara B. Dolph in Detroit.

He proudly served in the U.S. Army 82nd Airborne from 1946-1947. He had worked for the Detroit Police Department for 15 years, and then worked for the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department for 26 years, retiring in 1993. He and his wife Barb retired to Crystal River, FL and then moved back to Michigan in 2006.
He was a writer, and enjoyed bringing people’s life stories to paper. He also enjoyed racquetball and swimming, and was the proud winner of medals in the Police Olympics.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 56 years, Barbara, one son, Dennis (Julie) Deppner of Chelsea, and one daughter Denise Schultz of Middleville, MI, four grandchildren: Nicolas and Drew Deppner, and Hannah and Benjamin Keller, as well as one sister Elizabeth Ciavattone of Warren. He was preceded in death by an infant brother Fred Jr., his brother Andrew, and one grandson Evan Deppner.

A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2015 at 3 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 1-3 p.m. Memorial Contributions may be made to Great Lakes Hospice or Chelsea Boys Swim and Dive.

Willard Byron “Barnie” Pearson
of Roscommon, Michigan

Age 74, died Aug. 4, 2015, at his home.

A memorial service and celebration was held on Friday, Aug. 28, at 11 a.m. at First Congregational Church of Roscommon. Walsh Funeral Home, Roscommon, handled arrangements.

Born Oct. 13, 1940, in Chelsea, to Willard DeRoy and Juanita Faye (Blackford) Pearson, he began his musical training at an early age. Following graduation from Chelsea High School in 1958, he attended the University of Michigan where he was a member of the Symphony Band, which represented the United States on a 15-week goodwill tour of Russia and the Middle East on behalf of the U.S. Department of State.

He left the University of Michigan in 1962 and joined the Marine Corps, where he became a member of “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band where he was a featured soloist and first trumpet in the White House Orchestra performing for Presidents Kennedy and Johnson.

After discharge from the Marine Corps in 1966, he held several positions with the New Orleans Philharmonic Orchestra, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and the St. Louis Symphony. He also performed with other groups including the Ohio Chamber Orchestra and the Metropolitan Brass Quintet.

Mr. Pearson continued his education at the University of Michigan from 1975 to 1978, completing his undergraduate degree as well as the Master of Music degree in performance and the course work for his Doctorate of Music degree.

From 1979 until he retired in 1997, he was a professor at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music in Ohio and was later appointed Emeritus Professor of Trumpet. Following his retirement, he moved to Roscommon County where he was able to pursue his favorite pastimes of hunting, fishing and competitive trapshooting.

In 2011, on the 50th anniversary of the Russian Tour, he was inducted into the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre and Dance Hall of Fame. He was a member of the Grayling Sportsman’s Club, Michigan Trapshooting Association, Amateur Trapshooting Association and National Rifle Association. He was also a past member of the Masons, American Federation of Musicians and the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Aerie 3201, Houghton Lake.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Alice. Surviving are his fiancée, Julie J. Chambers of Roscommon; son, James Gilbert Pearson of Glendale, CA; daughter, Catherine J. Pearson of Springfield, MO; two grandsons, Aaron and Noah Pearson; sister, Elaine White of Hale; and a life-long friend, James Grau of Chelsea.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre and Dance Alumni Society or the American Diabetes Association.

Kathleen Mary King
Chelsea, Michigan

Died Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2015 at her daughter’s home in Chelsea.

Kathleen was born Oct. 12, 1927, in San Francisco, CA, the daughter of Clarence and Catherine ‘Kitty’ Hanlon, and lived most of her life in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Survivors include six children: Dennis, Nancy (William) Harris, John, Kathleen (Dennis) King-Reeves, Richard (Kelly), and Matthew (Marli); 7 grandchildren, Charlene, Elizabeth (Bret), Katrina, Veronica, Kelsey, Shannon, and Spencer, and 2 great-grandchildren, Hayley and Ryan.

Kathleen (Kate) graduated from St. John Ursuline of San Francisco. In 1947, she married Spencer A. King in Sonoma, CA. She worked with him at their King Insurance Agency in Los Altos until he passed away in April, 1986. She then worked in the Parks Department of the County of Santa Clara until she retired.

Kate loved family activities with her 6 children and provided childcare for two of her grandchildren, Shannon and Spencer, for many years. She also loved animals, particularly small dogs, and always had a pet. In her fifties, she took horseback riding lessons with Dennis and Nancy at Foothill College. Kathleen enjoyed talking to, feeding, and grooming the horses more than riding the horses themselves. She treasured her trips to Disneyland, Hawaii, and Ireland with her family.

Kate loved her Irish ancestry and Celtic music. She kept informed about local and national politics and loved to banter about the most current local and national issues. She enjoyed old movies, murder mysteries, and the outdoors.

A Mass was said in her memory. Kate will be buried with her husband, her parents, and other family members at Holy Cross Cemetery in Colma, California.

On Oct. 12th, (Kate’s birthdate), family members will meet in San Francisco to visit a few of Kate’s favorite spots, including walking across the Golden Gate Bridge which Kate did as a child on the opening of the bridge.

Nancy and William Harris will hold an Irish wake in celebration of her life at their Chelsea home at noon on Sept. 13th, which will follow a requiem service at St. Barnabas Church, Chelsea at 10 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society or to Hearts Community Service (at which she volunteered). Arrangements were by Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.

Cuendet,-Steven-webSteven A. Cuendet
of Manchester, Michigan

Age 50, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 3, 2015, at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor.

He was born on Aug. 21, 1965, in Ann Arbor, MI, the son of Arthur and Carolyn (Hall) Cuendet. Steve had lived in the area since he was 7 years old, coming from Ann Arbor. He enjoyed music, collecting coins, and vacationing on the Lake Michigan shoreline with his wife, Joni.

On Oct. 24, 2013, he married Joan M. Weber, and she survives. Also surviving are his children, Christopher Stevens of Munith and Ashley Cuendet of Manchester; his sister, Debi (Jack) Mitchell of Manchester; his nieces and nephews: Jamie Hadley, Lisa Martinson, Crystal Tobias, Courtney Poertner, Aaron Gates, Amanda Gates, Kelly Quinn, and Ryan Quinn; his mother-in-law, Sandy Weber of Chelsea, and his sisters-in-law: Shelly (Wayne) Welton of Chelsea, Anne (Mike) Quinn of Trenton, and Karen (Jim) Phelps of Saline; and his beloved dog, Suh. He was preceded in death by his parents, his maternal grandparents Art and Cory Hall Jr., and his paternal grandparents Amiee and Matilda Cuendet.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2015, at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Kathy Shell officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. and Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will take place at a later date at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Humane Society of Huron Valley or the University of Michigan Cardiac Rehabilitation.

Thibeault,-Ilene-webIlene Kathleen Thibeault
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 87, passed away at her home on Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2015.

She was born on Aug. 23, 1928, in River Rouge, MI, the daughter of Kenneth and Margarette (Wilkes) McMillan. She had lived the area permanently since 1982, however, she enjoyed spending time at the lake since 1960. She had worked as a school bus driver for Taylor Public Schools for 10 years. Her favorite pastimes included flowers and gardening, going on walks, and she enjoyed dinners at the Wolverine.

On Aug. 30, 1947, she married Francis Xavier Thibeault in Ecorse and he survives. Also surviving is one daughter, Roni (Lenard) Kass of Chelsea; three grandchildren: Randy (Kim) Windham, Sean (Corinne) Kass, and Stefanie Kass; four great-grandchildren: Bailey, Bryce, Cash, and Croy; one sister, Lois (Leonard) Ryan of Hackberry, Arizona; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and one son, Douglas M. Thibeault.

Mass will be Friday, Aug. 28, 2015, at 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with V. Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Thursday from 5-8 p.m. and at the church on Friday from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Humane Society of Huron Valley in Ann Arbor.

Rabbitt,-Milton-webMilton Rabbitt
of Dexter Twp.

Age 91, passed away on Aug. 17, 2015 at his home.

He was born March 8, 1924 in Providence, Rhode Island the son of Manuel (Virginia) Rabbitt.

Milton attended Brown University, completing his undergraduate degree in Engineering in two years due to World War II. He proudly served in the United States Navy as an Ensign on the USS Little Rock (CL-92), a Cleveland-Class Light Cruiser.

Commissioned in mid-1945, he was aboard the Little Rock’s initial assignment- to patrol the entire continent of South America. Upon returning, Milton obtained a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Harvard University.

He married Jocelyn A. Salt on Oct. 16, 1945, and she preceded him in death in 1988. He is survived by two sons – Bruce Rabbitt, and Jeffrey (Cheryl) Rabbitt, daughter-in-law Helen Rabbitt-Clay, and seven grandchildren: Gillian, Graham, Alex, Emily, Zach, Madison, and Carson. In addition to Jocelyn, he was preceded in death by his son, B. Christopher in 1994.

Burial has taken place at the North Lake Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the B. Christopher Rabbitt Scholarship, c/o Chelsea High School, 740 N. Freer Road, Chelsea, MI 48118 (make checks payable to Chelsea High School with “B. Christopher Rabbitt Scholarship” in the memo).

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Burgess,-Mary-Ann-webMary Ann Burgess
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 78, passed away on Aug. 20, 2015 at Legacy Assisted Living in Jackson.

She was born Oct. 19, 1936, in Detroit, MI, the daughter of Otis and Mary (Eisele) Titus.

She was a member of the Michigan Practical Nurses Association and had served as 2nd Vice President. She worked as a LPN at the Chelsea Retirement Community for 25 years, then doing home care after her retirement. She was a Cub Scout den mother for many years. She was also a member of FCE. She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church all of her life, a member of the Altar Society, and a founding member of the Washtenaw Catholic Council on Aging.

She enjoyed dancing, traveling all over the world and sea cruises. Most of all she was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother.

She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Charles; three children: Robert (Mary Helen) Burgess, Ann Marie (Clifford) Markle, and William Burgess (Dianne Kuhl); also four grandchildren: Michael, Mary Regina, Mary Anne (Lucas), and Alice.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2015, 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with V. Rev. William J. Turner celebrating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea.

The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Monday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., with a Rosary Service at 7:30 p.m., and also at the church on Tuesday from 10-11 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Louis Center in Chelsea.

Jackson,-Wendell-photoWendell Jay Jackson
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 59, passed away at home on Thursday, Aug. 20, 2015.

He was born on April 13, 1956, in Stockbridge, MI, the son of Bernie and Hazel (Scott) Jackson. Wendell had lived in the area for the past 15 years, coming from Stockbridge. He enjoyed deer hunting, gardening, fishing, watching baseball, and spending time with his kids.

On March 23, 2001, he married Sally Miller and she survives. Also surviving two sons, Bryan Nichols and Brandon Jackson; two brothers, Willis (Ann) Jackson of Stockbridge and Leroy (Cheryl) Jackson of Jackson; and his parents-in-law, Dave and Elaine Pastor, along with several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and five sisters: Delberta Whitaker, Earmalee Marshall, Barbara Collins, Dixie Salyers, and Lorren Jackson.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2015, at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. The family will receive friends from noon until the time of service. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family.

Snover-BurdetteBurdette “Burt” Junior Snover
of Rockwall, TX, formerly of Warren, MI

Age 81, passed away Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2015 at Autumn Leaves of Rockwall.

“Burt” Snover was born Oct. 11, 1933 in Royal Oak, Michigan, the son of William and Harriett (Maule) Snover.

Burt worked in Real Estate, renting and remodeling multiple homes in the Detroit area. He served in the US Marine Corps from 1953-1958, earning the rank of Sergeant. Burt was an avid archer, hunter, and fisherman and dearly loved his grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

On Nov. 22, 1958, he married Arlene Mae Kriss in Detroit, Michigan, and she preceded him in death on July 21, 2009. Survivors include his daughter, Tamra (Rev. Jeffery) Ford of Chelsea, MI; his son, Burt Snover of Dallas, TX; 4 grandchildren, Burt and Daniel Snover, Kristen and Jacob Ford; two sisters, Patricia Terbrueggen and Jacqueline Scholl; two brothers, Donald and William Snover; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Dorothy Carpenter and Wilma Snover; and two brothers, Lyle and Earl Snover.

Funeral services will be held Monday, Aug. 24, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, Michigan, with Rev. Bruce Rhodes officiating. Burial will be at Cadillac Memorial Gardens East in Clinton Township, Michigan.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home Sunday from noon until 3 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Free Methodist Church, PO Box 40, Chelsea, MI 48118.

Howell-EstelleEstelle M. (Seitz) Howell
Jackson, MI, formerly of Chelsea

Age 97, died Saturday, Aug. 15, 2015 at Allegiance Hospital in Jackson.
She was born Feb. 18, 1918 in Chelsea, Michigan, the daughter of Fred J. and Emma Marie (Visel) Seitz.

Estelle was a member of Saint John’s United Church of Christ in Jackson and the Eastern Star of Jackson. She was a homemaker, gardener, and a great cook.

Estelle is survived by two daughters, Karen (Mel) Winchell of Jackson, Judy Wellman of Jackson; a son, Charles (Sharon) Howell of Menasha, WI; as well as 6 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by two brothers and their wives, Paul (Katherine) Seitz and Walter (Marge) Seitz.

The family would like to thank the staff at RidgeCrest for their loving care over the past six years.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, Aug. 20, 1 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Rev. Jim Coyl officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea.

The family will receive friends Wednesday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s United Church of Christ, 801 S Mechanic St, Jackson, MI 49203 or St. Paul United Church of Christ, 14600 Old US 12, Chelsea, MI 48118.

Pearsall-Bea2Beatrice Victoria Pearsall
Chelsea, MI

Age 94, died Friday, Aug. 14, 2015 at her home.

She was born Sept. 8, 1920 in Brentwood, New Hampshire, the fourth daughter of William and Annie Goulden.

Bea graduated from Ann Arbor High School with the class of 1938. She worked for Montgomery Ward as a switchboard operator, as a medical clerk for Chelsea Community Hospital, and spent many years helping her husband, Fred, with his job as Sylvan Township Treasurer. Throughout the years she had been active in Cub Scouts.

Bea married Fred Warren Pearsall on Aug. 27, 1938 at St Andrews Episcopal Church in Ann Arbor, MI, and they went down the road of life together for 68 years. He preceded her in death on May 18, 2007. She was also preceded in death by her 17-year-old son, Fred E. Pearsall, and four sisters. She is survived by her dear children, James V. (Donna) Pearsall of Clinton, William C. (Linda) Pearsall of Chelsea, and Jerry W. Pearsall of Dexter; grandchildren, Jeffrey Pearsall, Todd (Lauren) Pearsall, Robert Pearsall, and Emily (Brandon) White; one great-grandson, Owen William Pearsall; and several nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Tuesday, Aug. 18, from 4-8 p.m. A private burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to Prader-Willi Syndrome Association.

Schlott-CarolineCaroline Elizabeth Sarah Schlott
Chelsea, MI

Age 85, died Sunday, Aug. 9, 2015 at Chelsea Retirement Community.

She was born June 10, 1930 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of William Lawton and Martha Louise (Schmidt) Connolly.

A graduate of Mackenzie High School, Caroline was the reunion chairperson for six years. Caroline worked for 17 years at Michigan Bell Telephone. She was a member of the Nardin Park United Methodist Church where she sang in the choir and was very active. Caroline cooked for the Nardiners Senior Citizens group. Many years ago, she served as President of the United Methodist Retirement Homes Friends, as well as an ex-officio trustee on the United Methodist Retirement Communities Board.

She is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, Glendon R. Schlott. Other survivors include a daughter, Janet (Robert) Jaeger of Jackson; a grandson, Karl (Nicole) Jaeger; three great-granddaughters, Kaitlyn, Madison, and Mackenzie; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Vera (Harry) Weitzel, Ruth (Robert) Watson; two brothers, William (Helen) Connolly and James (Blythe) Connolly; one niece, Judi Tweeten; two nephews, Phillip Connolly and Donald Connolly; and her first husband, Orville Gundlach.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Aug. 22, 2 p.m. at Chelsea Retirement Community, with the Rev. Cathy Rafferty officiating. A fellowship tea will follow. Memorial contributions may be made to United Methodist Retirement Communities Foundation.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

Hafner--LeoLeo A. Hafner
Pinckney, MI

Age 72, died Sunday, Aug. 9, 2015 at University Hospital in Ann Arbor.

He was born Nov. 12, 1942 in Chelsea, Michigan, the son of William J . and Mary B. (Honeck) Hafner. Leo was a 1962 graduate of Chelsea High School.

He worked at U of M in maintenance, retiring in 1993. Leo enjoyed cruising in his old car. He was a conservation supporter who enjoyed hunting and fishing. Leo belonged to the Pigeon Club “American Giant Homers Association” and raised rabbits.

On June 27, 1970, he married Dorothy Smith in Flint, and she survives. Other survivors include two sons, Jason Hafner of Pinckney and Frank Hafner of Dexter; one granddaughter, Mary Esther Hafner; three sisters, Barbara Lou Anderson of Bonifay, FL, Norma Hards of Dexter, Gloria Near of Saline; two brothers, Leonard and Dennis, both of Chelsea. He was preceded in death by three sisters, Josephine Hafner, Mary Ann Hafner, Clara “Jenny” Brown; and two brothers, ‘Bud’ and LaVern Hafner.

A memorial service will be held Friday, Aug. 21, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Deacon Tom Franklin officiating. The family will receive friends 10-11 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Wild Turkey Federation.

Dunn-Paul1Paul H. Dunn
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 69, died Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2015 at his home after a five-year battle with colon cancer.

He was born Oct. 24, 1945 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Jerome Howard and Lucy Kathern (Steeb) Dunn.

Paul retired from the Michigan Department of Transportation after 34 years. After retiring from MDOT, he was a delivery man for Gigi’s Flowers. He was an avid stamp and coin collector. Paul was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea where he served as an usher. He was a member of the Lyndon Township Board of Review. Paul was an active member of the Chelsea Senior Center.

On Dec. 15, 1973 he married Mary “Jean” Rodger, and she survives. Other survivors include three sons, Douglas (Royann) of Swartz Creek, Stewart (Carrie) of Augusta, and Andrew (Stephanie) of Saginaw; six grandchildren, Katherine, Celah, Bella, Eric, Emily, and Elizabeth.

Cremation has taken place. A Funeral Mass will be held Monday, Aug. 17, 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Senior Center, St. Mary Catholic Church, or WKAR-TV.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Cox-WilliamWilliam Edward Cox
Garden City, MI, formerly of Chelsea

Age 45, lost his battle with cancer on Thursday, Aug. 6, 2015 at U of M Hospital.

He was born Feb. 6, 1970 in Saginaw, the son of John L. and Mary Ellen (Moseley) Cox.

Ed graduated from Chelsea High School in 1988.He served in the US Air Force before working at iConnect, and later at Tegrit Software Ventures. Ed enjoyed culinary arts and sharing his baked goods (especially his cupcakes) with his co-workers. He enjoyed gaming, primarily Warhammer and D and D. He loved camping, traveling and seeing new places, and spending time with his kids.

He is survived by his wife of 17 years, Lynn Marie (Kujawa) Cox; his mother; a son, Jonathan; a daughter Samantha; three siblings, Jennifer (Don) Rosencrance,
ichael (Bobbie) Cox and Deb (Doug Okey) Tuohy; and eight nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father in 1989.

The family will receive friends at the American Legion Post #32, 9318 Newburg Rd., Livonia, MI 48150, on Sunday, Aug. 16, 1-4 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.

Chambers-DonnaDonna F. Chambers
of Manchester, formerly of Chelsea

Age 71, died Monday, Aug. 10, 2015 at her home with her family.

She was born May 26, 1944 in Hudson, Michigan, the daughter of Donald and Florence (Huff) Murphy. Donna graduated from Hudson High School in 1962, and earned her Associates Degree from Siena Heights in 1985. After graduation, she started working for the University of Michigan in 1986, until her retirement in 2009.

Donna was an active member of Sharon United Methodist Church. She and Dan were very involved in the Ann Arbor Ski Club. Donna’s hobby was jewelry making, and she derived great joy spending time with her grandchildren and attending their various events.

On May 1st, 1993, she married Daniel Chambers in Ann Arbor and he survives. Other survivors include a son, Donald (Helen) Cheney of Vandercook Lake; two daughters, Debbie Gillen of Dearborn Heights, Coelina (Glen) Byers of Adrian; 7 grandchildren, Josh Clark, Devin Cheney, Danielle Cheney, Erika Cheney, Andrew Cheney, Brandon Byers, Brittnee Byers; and two great-grandchildren, Mason and Kenton Clark.

She was preceded in death by her parents; an infant son, Clifford Cheney; three siblings, Eulah Passmore, Marion Michaels, Bob Hunt; and a step-brother, Paige Hunt.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Aug. 14, at noon at Sharon United Methodist Church, 19880 Pleasant Lake Road, Manchester with Pastor Peter Harris officiating. Burial will follow at Rowe’s Corner Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church Thursday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. and Friday 10 a.m. until noon. Memorial contributions may be made to Sharon United Methodist Church. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

 

Otto,-David-web2David L. Otto

Age 78, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 28, 2015, at his home in Pinehurst, North Carolina.

He was born on July 23, 1937, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Willis and Josephine (Smith) Otto. Dave grew up in Dexter and after completing his military service with the famed 82 Airborne Division’s Red Devil Brigade, he returned to Michigan and married Marilyn G. Forest on July 17, 1965.They lived in Whitmore Lake, MI, until 1979 when they moved to North Lake just outside Chelsea, MI.

Upon retirement in 1998, Dave and his wife Marilyn moved to Pinehurst, NC, where they lived for the past 15 years. Dave spent his entire career as an operating engineer in commercial construction. Even after retirement, he put his construction skills to work volunteering his time helping to build Habitat for Humanity homes.

Dave enjoyed playing golf, traveling, volunteering and spending time with family and friends. He had a smile for all and will be missed by many.

Dave is survived by his wife Marilyn; sons David Otto and Doug Otto (Susan); grandchildren James, Megan, Anna, Rachel, Lauren and Ben; sister Carol Buatti; and sister-in-law Carol Otto, along with several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother Jim, grandson Nolan Otto, and his great-granddaughter Elizabeth Otto.

A Memorial Service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2015, at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Joy Barrett officiating. Remembrances may be made in the form desired by friends. The International Myeloma Foundation, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, and Habitat for Humanity are favorite organizations of the Otto family.

Aldrich-Clotine-Bobbie-1Clotine “Bobbie” Aldrich
Grand Rapids, MI, formerly of 250 Wilkinson St., Chelsea

Age 79, died Thursday, Aug. 6, 2015 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

She was born May 11, 1936 in Salyersville, Kentucky, the daughter of Amos and Frances (Bailey) Auxier.

Bobbie was a member of Faith Baptist church for many years. She also attended Dexter Gospel for several years.

On Jan. 13, 1956, she married John Henry Aldrich, and he preceded her in death on Sept. 3, 1988. Survivors include two sons, Robert Aldrich of Homer, MI, Kenny Aldrich of Catlettsburg, KY; one daughter, Mrs. Joe (Kathy) Armbruster of Monroe, OH; and many grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held Monday, Aug. 10, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Pastor Edgar “Pete” Miller officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Sunday 1-5 p.m.

Lester-ElizabethElizabeth “Betty” Lester
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Ann Arbor

Age 86, died unexpectedly Sunday, Aug. 2, 2015 at Silver Maples of Chelsea.

She was born Aug. 9, 1928 in Berwyn, Illinois, the daughter of Paul Leander and Bessie (Boileau) Bates.

Betty graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in vocal Music Education of Arts from Cornell College in Iowa, and received her Master’s in Music from the University of Michigan. She taught vocal music while in college. Betty sang in the choir at the First United Methodist Church in Ann Arbor for over 45 years, where she and Jim were long-time members.

Betty was a member and former State President of the Ann Arbor PEO. She played the organ for the Sunday service at Silver Maples in Chelsea, where she had lived for twelve years. She also performed recitals with the violinist Lajos at Silver Maples.

On Aug. 28, 1954, she married James W. Lester in Oak Park, Illinois, and he survives. Other survivors include two sons, David (Rebecca) of Spring Hill, TN, Jamie (Shannan) of Coldwater, MI; two grandchildren, Eric and Drew Lester; a brother-in-law, Thomas (Brenda) Lester of La Jolla, CA. She was preceded in death by her brother, George Bates.

A memorial service will be held Friday, Aug. 7, 1:30 p.m. at Silver Maples of Chelsea, with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. A private burial will be at Ann Arbor First United Methodist Church Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made to Silver Maples Scholarship Fund. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Ouendag_MargaretMargaret Ann Ouendag
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Grand Rapids

Age 93, died Thursday, July 30, 2015 at Chelsea Retirement Community.

She was born Sept. 27, 1921 in Williamson, WV, the daughter of Charles Clendennin and Charma Leota (Fulton) Parsons.

In 1939, she married Jack Franklin Davidson Sr. and she is survived by their two children, Jack (Georgeanna) Franklin Davidson Jr. of Sparta, MI and Charma Kay (Robert D. Dick) Shoemaker of Chelsea, MI, and two grandchildren, Harley Davidson and Scott-Paul Shoemaker.

In 1970, she married Verne Ouendag, bringing into her family his seven children, Cheryl (Roger) Davis, Sandy Ouendag, Wendy (Paul) Davison, Dale (Meri) Ouendag, Pat (Larry) DeGrande, Connie Ouendag, Bonnie Cooper; his grandchildren, Chris (Liz) Davis, Marc Davis, John (Teresa) Ouendag, Dustin (Lauren) Davison, Kelly (Pete) Piotrowski, Casey (Stacy) Davison, Kristi (Jim) Inman, Doug (Kim Dung) Ouendag, Sadi (Jeff) Huttinga, Brit (Matt) Brown, Ian VanSpronsen, Andy Cooper, Brian (Melanie Star) Cooper, and his great-grandchildren Cierra and Alayna Davis, Stephanie Godlewski, Sydnie,Sienna and Savanna Ouendag, Drew and Blake Davison, Madilyn and Carson Piotrowski, Taber Davison, Zac, Bryce and Elle Inman, Ann Nguyen, Ryan Ouendag, Cayden and Kylie Huttinga, Kayleigh Brown, Keegan and Mackenzie Cooper.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, Aug. 12, 4 p.m. at Chelsea First United Methodist Church, with Rev. Joy Barrett officiating. Burial will be at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Retirement Community or the Parkinson’s Foundation. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Baker_Leila_SkipLeila “Skip” Elizabeth Baker
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 98, died Sunday, July 26, 2015 at Chelsea Retirement Community.

She was born May 2, 1917 in Flint, Michigan, the daughter of Edward and Olga (Ernst) McCallum. She was the oldest of 4 children. She has been preceded in death by her siblings Glendora Rodriquez, Beatrice Letsis and Duane McCallum.

On Nov. 14, 1936, she married Sheldon “Bake” Baker in Saline, MI, and he preceded her in death on March 2, 1995. They lived in Plymouth, MI until 1958 when they moved to Rogers, AR with the Daisy Manufacturing Company. Skip returned to Michigan in 2006.

They had 3 children, David (Nancy) of Fayetteville, AR, Dennis (Ann) of Minneapolis, MN and Christine (Sam) Tramontin of Ann Arbor, MI. They had 9 grandchildren, Michael (Tammy) Baker, Debbie (Gary) Vandermade, Robert (Shannon) Tramontin, Julie (Bryn) Morrison, Jay (Amy) Baker, Jeff Baker, Jennifer Baker, Beth (Shane) McDougal, Aleata (John) Brigance, and Rhonda McKinney; 19 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren.

“Skip” had a love for Girl Scouting and was a Girl Scout volunteer for over 50 years serving as troop leader in Plymouth, MI, Fayetteville, AR, and Springdale, AR. She also served on Noark Girl Scout Board of Directors several times and as a Volunteer Trainer for Outdoor Leadership. She and Sheldon were very involved in the development of Camp Noark in Huntsville, AR and had a tree planted in their name on the grounds. In 2008, Skip was named “Woman of Distinction” for the Girl Scouts of Noark Council.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, July 30, 2 p.m. at Chelsea Retirement Community (Towsley Village Chapel), with Rev. Cathy Rafferty officiating.

Graveside services will be at Fairview Memorial Gardens, Fayetteville, Arkansas at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to, The Chelsea Music and Memory Project, Chelsea Retirement Community, 805 W. Middle Street, Chelsea, MI, attention: Kori Rochefort.

Local arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Lesser-NorwinNorwin A. Lesser
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 87, died Tuesday, July 21, 2015 in Chelsea surrounded by his family.

He was born Aug. 1, 1927 in Dexter Township, Michigan, the son of Ezra and Edna (Mast) Lesser.

Norwin graduated from Dexter High School in 1945. He was a farmer all of his life. Norwin attended Faith Lutheran Church. He was a former member of St. Andrew’s United Church of Christ in Dexter, and Salem Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor.

On Aug. 18, 1951 he married Carol L. Jedele at Salem Church in Ann Arbor, and she survives. Other survivors include four sons, Dale of Dexter, Douglas of Santa Clara, CA, David (Sharon Burgett) of Chelsea, Thomas of Dexter; 5 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchild, a brother, Carl; and a sister, Arlene Honbaum. He was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Burmeister.

Funeral services will be held Monday, 11 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church in Dexter, with Rev. Mark Porinsky officiating. Burial will follow at St. Andrew’s Cemetery in Dexter.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Saturday 6-8 p.m. and Sunday 2-8 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Faith in Action, or Faith Lutheran Church, 9575 N. Territorial Road, Dexter, MI 48130.

Preville,-Michael-webMichael Frank Preville

Died July 18, 2015, at his home at North Lake near Chelsea, Michigan.

Mike was born in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, to Elizabeth Ferguson and Ademar “Ed” Preville. In 1977, he married Judith Gilbert, and they made their home in Livonia before moving to North Lake.

A graduate of Michigan State University, Mike worked in journalism for Hometown Newspapers in Howell for many years. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and hanging out with his sons at their annual “Camp Crusty” retreat in the UP. He was happiest when spending time with his dogs, currently Belle, and barbequing for the family.

Mike is survived by his wife Judy; sons Eric (Barb) and Joel (Amy), and daughter Lauren Gilbert (Mike Casey); grandchildren Jessica (Clint), Jordan (Nicholas), Nicholas, Johnathan, Jocelyn, Jamie, and Jack; great-grandchildren Nicholas and MacKenzie; sisters-in-law Pat Gilbert (Jim Froehlich) and Wendy Gronbeck; brother-in-law John Gilbert; nieces and nephews Chrisopher, Ingrid, Jake, Anthony (Emily), and Erin (Scott), and their children Nathan, Zachary, Ellie, Aila, and Cici.

There will be no formal service. Memorials in Mike’s honor may be directed to the Humane Society of Huron Valley, 3100 Cherry Hill Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48105, or Brimley Area Education Foundation, M-221, Brimley, MI 49715, or Arbor Hospice, 2366 Oak Valley Dr., Ann Arbor, MI 48103.

Grannis,-Evelyn-webEvelyn Lois Grannis
of Jackson, formerly Dexter, Michigan

Age 88, passed away on Wednesday, July 15, 2015, at Legacy Assisted Living in Jackson.

She was born on March 27, 1927, in Ypsilanti, MI, the daughter of Elmer and Eda (Lidke) Rutherford. On Sept. 8, 1945, she married Norton Junior Grannis in Ypsilanti and he preceded her in death on July 24, 2011. Evelyn was a member of the Dexter United Methodist Church and her hobbies included quilting, bowling, crafts, cooking, baking, gardening flowers and vegetables, and playing cards with family and friends.

Surviving are her children: Richard (Nellann) Grannis, Ronald Grannis, Kathy Morrison, Cynthia (Dan) Mosley, and daughter-in-law Caroline Grannis, along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her daughter Sharon Bradford, son Jerry Grannis, son-in-law Joel Morrison, and her siblings: Leroy Rutherford, Carl Rutherford, Marilyn Horton, Shirley Urbaniak, and Melvin Rutherford.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 18, 2015, at the Dexter United Methodist Church with Rev. Stephen Bringardner officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Dexter.

The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Friday from 4-8 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Dexter United Methodist Church.

Ron-BordersGene “Ron” Borders
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 76, died Tuesday, July 14, 2015 at his home.

He was born May 23, 1939 in Ashland, KY, the son of Eltia and Anna (Roark) Borders Sr.

Ron was a member of the Chelsea High School class of 1958. He worked at Chelsea Milling for 42 years. Ron liked woodworking, was an avid gun collector and shot on a pistol team. He was a member of the Chelsea Rod and Gun Club.

On Sept. 6, 1958, he married Patricia Dvorak, and she survives. Other survivors include a brother, Eltia (Debra) Borders of Chelsea; a sister, Sheila (Byron) Gay of Traverse City; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Leo Borders, and his parents.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, July 16, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends Wednesday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Historical Society.

BeGole,-Bernard-webBernard Lee BeGole
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 70, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 11, 2015, at his home with his daughter and son-in-law by his side.

He was born on Feb. 11, 1945, in Ann Arbor, MI, the son of Lee and Helen (Schmid) BeGole. He had lived in the area for nearly all of his life, moving from Ann Arbor to Chelsea in the late 1970’s.

Barney served in the United States Air Force from 1967-1971 as an Aircraft Mechanic. Upon returning from Vietnam, he began his career as a prototype machinist working for Sarns/3M for nearly 30 years, retiring in 2000.

In his retirement, he spent two years in Alaska with family and enjoyed traveling to Whittier from Anchorage. Why? Just for the halibut. Upon his return to Chelsea he enjoyed carpentry as well as working in the yard with his Deere and caring for his critters. Barney was a strong, Christian man who was not ashamed of his love for the Lord. Above all, his favorite pastime was simply spending time with his daughter and her family. Nothing made him light up like hearing his name “Daddy” and “Granddaddy” come from his girls.

He is survived by his daughter, Heidi (Buddy) Guy of Chelsea; three beautiful granddaughters: Shawna, Jaclyn, and Lizzie; one like-daughter, Marci (Herb) Rowsey of Ann Arbor, and one like-son, Brett Wales of Ypsilanti; one sister, Eileen Rohraff of Belleville; two aunts, Nancy Trotter of Dixboro and Arlene Schmid of Ann Arbor; and two nieces and one nephew.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 18, 2015, at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Pastor Jeff Bradley officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 6-8 p.m.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Huron Valley Humane Society.

Couchman-Susan-1Susan “Jean” Couchman
Grass Lake, MI

Age 75, died peacefully Sunday, July 5, 2015 in her home surrounded by her family.

She was born Aug. 11, 1939 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Gerald and Blanche (Julien) Garrow.

Susan attended St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea. She was a member of the Chelsea Senior Center. Susan was a special needs bus driver for Dexter Community Schools for 30 years. She was very active, and enjoyed camping, listening to music, and playing cards. Susan liked to travel and spend winters in Florida with family and friends. She enjoyed going to Native American pow-wows.

Survivors include three sons, Joseph (Rhonda) of Hamburg, Timothy (Ron) of White Lake, Gerald of Chelsea; two daughters, Lisa Stahl of Pinckney, Angela Valliere of Grass Lake; their father, Joe Couchman; a sister, Joyce Mauck of Grass Lake; 12 grandchildren, Joseph, Connie, Robert, Daniel, Karmen, Brandon, Jason, Jacob, Holly, Derek, Emily, Jaime; 10 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Marlene Skrip.

A Funeral Mass will be held Thursday, July 9, 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Burial will take place at a later date. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Wednesday from 3-9 p.m., with a vigil service at 8 p.m., and Thursday, 10 a.m. at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Castro-Gwendolyn-2Gwendolyn May Castro
of Ann Arbor, MI formerly of Wild Goose Lake

Age 91, died Tuesday, June 30, 2015 at Glacier Hills of Ann Arbor. She was born Dec. 24, 1923 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Clarence and Leona (Norris) Grayer. On April 7, 1942, she married Coleman Martin Castro, Sr. in Detroit, MI and he preceded her in death on Feb. 20, 2007.

Survivors include three sons, Thomas Michael (Kaye) Castro of Naples, FL, Joseph Angelo (Patricia) Castro of Michigan Center, and Coleman Martin (Gail) Castro, Jr., of Ferndale; nine grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; a sister, Barbara Burnett of Kalamazoo; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a brother, Clarence Grayer.

A funeral service will be held Tuesday, July 7, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea. The family will receive friends Monday 3-5 and 7-9 p.m. A private burial will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea.

Burbank-LauranceLaurence W. Burbank
Laurence William Burbank passed away peacefully after a battle with cancer on Jan. 15, 2015.

He leaves behind his wife Sandy, of almost 54 years, their three sons, Scott (Laura) Burbank, Todd Burbank, Marc (Karyn) Burbank; six grandchildren, Jacquelynn, Brandon, Ashley, Kaitlyn, Ryan and Derek Burbank; two great granddaughters, Abbie and Lexi; a brother Stanley (Sarah) Burbank; and a sister Sally (Jerry) Cousino; a nephew Stanley H. Burbank III; and nieces Dawn (Jason) Frederick, Heather (John) Hebling, Leslie (Paul) Chandler.

Larry was a devoted husband and father, who served his country in the Coast Guard. He worked hard all is life providing for his family making it his top priority. His John Deere was his favorite toy ever where I’m sure he worked out many a business transaction as he mowed the lawn.

A memorial service will be held Monday, July 6, 11 a.m. at Salem Lutheran Church of Ann Arbor, with Rev. Douglas C. Hartley Sr. officiating. Memorial contributions can be made to Arbor Hospice, or a cancer research charity of your choice.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

KeezerMarlene M. Keezer
Chelsea, MI

Age 83, went home to be with the Lord on June 24, 2015.

She was born Oct. 8, 1931 in Chelsea, Michigan, the daughter of John C. and Esther E. (Page) Schneider.

Marlene graduated from Chelsea High School in 1950 and Hamilton Business College in 1952. She was a member of Mt. Hope Bible Church. Marlene loved being outdoors and enjoyed God’s beautiful creation.

On Nov. 25, 1967, she married Walter “Joe” Keezer, and he preceded her in death on March 9, 1998. Survivors include her children, Peggy (Dan) Nutt, Carolyn (Richard) Pichea, Judy (Steven) Shepherd; her grandchildren, David, Daniel, Jason, Holly, Lisa, and Steven Ray; 16 great-grandchildren; a great-great grandson; two brothers, Robert Schneider and Donald (Shirley) Schneider, both of Chelsea, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, an infant brother, Christian J. Schneider and her sister-in-law, Billie Schneider.

A private graveside service was held at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea, with Rev. Joseph O’Neill officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Hope Bible Church, Grass Lake, MI.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Skittenhelm_JohnJohn Gottfried Skittenhelm
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 85, died Thursday, June 25, 2015 at his home with his family at his side.

He was born Jan. 30, 1930 in Grass Lake, Michigan, the son of Walter J. and Norma Mary (Sluyter) Schittenhelm.

John was a heavy equipment operator at Chrysler Proving Grounds, and was a member of UAW Local 1284. He served in the US Army during the Korean War, stationed in Germany. John loved to hunt and fish, and he especially enjoyed time with his grandchildren.

On June 11, 1952, he married Ramona Cole in Toledo, OH, and she survives. Other survivors include 3 children, Thomas (Ronda) Skittenhelm of Gregory, Julie Day of Chelsea, Susan (William) Callaway of Manchester; 6 grandchildren, Kelsey and Kendra Skittenhelm, Amy (Scott) Yaede, Cara (Brian) Callaway-Lucier, Matthew Callaway, Ian (Katie) Callaway; 1 sister, Mary (Robert) Bauer; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister, Ruth (Leroy) Bristle.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Wednesday, July 1, from 2-4 and 6-9 p.m. A private memorial service will be held. Burial will be at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to U of M Melanoma Research or Arbor Hospice.

Cordell-SmallCarl Leonard Cordell
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 94, died Friday, June 19, 2015 at Chelsea Retirement Community.

He was born November 13, 1920 in Pikeville, TN, the son of James Rankin and Gertrude May (Rutledge) Cordell. He attended school in Chattanooga and served in the US Army in World War II.

On July 8, 1945, he married Harriet Peterson in Greenville, SC. In 1948, they moved to Belleville, MI, where he was employed by the United States Postal Service in Ypsilanti, MI. He retired in 1978 as Manager of Customer Service. They both loved travel and retirement gave them more opportunities for this and visiting their many relatives. They also spent their winters in Leesburg, FL, with their RV.

Harriet Cordell preceded him in death on June 4, 1990. On August 3, 1991, he married Mary Jo (Sherburne) Lawson of Ypsilanti and they established their home in Chelsea. In November, 2013, they moved to the Chelsea Retirement Community, where he became a member of the Building and Grounds Committee. Carl was central in the establishment of St. Mark Evangelical Lutheran Church in Ypsilanti, serving many terms on the church council.

After moving to Chelsea, he and Mary Jo belonged to Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church. Over the years he was active in the Boy Scouts of America and the National Association of Retired Federal Employees. He and Mary Jo enjoyed world travel and visited every continent except South America.

He is survived by three sons: James Allen (Nancy) Cordell of Springfield, MO; William Carl (Denise) Cordell of Boulder Creek, CA; and Charles Ernest (Cheri) Cordell, of Davison, MI. In addition, he is survived by three stepsons: Bradford (Cheryl) Lawson, of Bremerton, WA; Theodore Lawson, of Lansing, MI; and Andrew (Megan) Lawson, of Ypsilanti, MI. He is also survived by two grandsons, Matthew Morgan and Mark Cordell, one granddaughter, Carol Cordell, several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, George Cordell, of Chattanooga, TN. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Louise Cordell and Ruth (Knox) Owen and his brothers, Ernest, James Loy, Glenn, and Leslie Howard Cordell.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 25, 10:30 am at Chelsea Retirement Community Main Chapel, with Rev. John Morris officiating. Burial will follow at Washtenong Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends before the funeral at 9:30 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church, Chelsea. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Kennedy,-Dale-web2Dale G. Kennedy
of Manchester, MI

Passed away on May 23, 2015.

A celebration of Dale Kennedy’s life will be held in the afternoon of Sunday, June 28, 2015, from 1-4 p.m. on Dale and Bette’s farm at 7870 Eisman Road, Manchester, Michigan 48158.

A brief presentation/eulogy about Dale’s life will occur at 2 p.m.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Obituary here.

Rogacki-WalterWalter John Rogacki
Jackson, MI

Age 87, died peacefully Monday, June 15, 2015 at Bethany Care Home in Jackson, Michigan.

He was born June 20, 1927 in Buffalo, New York, the son of Valentin and Wladyslava (Krzyrzaniak) Rogacki.

Walter was a member of the Catholic Church. He served in the South Pacific in the United States Navy during WWII. He also served in the Korean Conflict. Walter was a former member of the DePew VFW Post. He was a laborer in the steel industry. Walter’s biggest hobby was art, he continued to sketch and paint throughout his whole life.

On Oct., 27 1956, he married Wanda Wierzbic and she preceded him in death on July 16, 2005. Survivors include a son, Steven (Mary) Rogacki of Chelsea; a daughter, Susan Rogacki of Buffalo, NY; a grandson, Adam (Haley) Rogacki; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a sister, Dorothy; and two brothers, Edward and Al, and a cousin, Peter Imbicrowski.

A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, June 19, 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, Michigan with Rev. Dr. William Turner officiating. The family will receive friends Friday 10-11 a.m. at the church. Burial will be Monday at St. Adalbert’s Cemetery, Lancaster, New York.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church or Bethany Care Home and Hospice.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

McGuire,-Maudie-webMaudie M. McGuire
Age 85, passed away on Friday, June 12, 2015, at Legacy Assisted Living in Jackson, surrounded by her daughters and granddaughter.

She was born on March 6, 1930, in Pikeville, Kentucky, the daughter of Maynard and Gracie (Bartley) Case. Maudie loved to cook, bake, and garden, and always had enough for anyone that might stop by.

She was a Charter member of the Senior Bowlers and bowled her last game in January 2014. She was a caretaker for her mom for over 20 years. She was a loving mother and grandmother and was a beloved resident of the Legacy Home.

Maudie is survived by her daughters, Brenda (Mike) Bauer of Chelsea and Linda (Michael) Purdy of Chelsea; her grandchildren: Kansey Bauer, Warren (Nicole) Bowen, Tony (Sarah) Brown, Erika Purdy, and Michael Purdy III; her great-grandchildren: Cayden, Cameron, Skylur, Matthew, and one on the way; and her sister Ella Branham.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husbands, Warren McGuire and Chester Branham, and her siblings: Nellie, Verna, Katherine, Easter, Caroline, Edna, Finis, Dennis, Cas, Charles, Milford, and Ben.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, June 16, 2015, at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Thomas Macaulay officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday from 6-8 p.m. Burial will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Chelsea Senior Center or Chelsea First United Methodist Church.

Koengeter_FlorenceFlorence Sophie Koengeter
Chelsea, MI

Age 97, died Monday, June 8, 2015 at the Chelsea Retirement Community.

She was born June 16, 1917 in Ft. Madison, Iowa, the daughter of Ralph and Bertha (Bragonier) Voigt.

Florence attended Christian College in Columbia, MO and Eden Seminary in Webster Groves, MO, and was commissioned in the Evangelical and Reformed Church. She served as an organist and Christian Educator at churches in Monroe, WI and Ann Arbor, MI (Bethlehem Church). She served with her husband, Alton, in Prescott, AZ, Andover, IA, Tripoli, IA, and Burlington IA, before retiring in Chelsea.

On June 26, 1955, she married Alton C. Koengeter in Fort Madison, IA and he preceded her in death on January 24, 2002. Survivors include two cousins Carol Anderson of Prescott AZ, D.J. Bragonier of Altoona, PA; and many great-nephews and great-nieces; and many friends. She was preceded in death by her brother-in-law and his wife, Wilbert and Elsie Koengeter; a sister-in-law and her husband, Edna and Edwin Haab; a nephew, Loren Koengeter; and two nieces Dorene Sullivan, Grace Baker.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 11, 1:30 p.m. at Chelsea Retirement Community Towsley Village Chapel, with Pastor Kathy Tulman officiating. Burial will follow at Zion Lutheran Church Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the Towsley Village Chapel from 12:30 p.m. until the time of service.

Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Nickel,-Grace-web2Grace Elberta (Hinchey) Nickel
of Dexter, MI

Age 97, passed away Saturday, June 6, 2015 at the Legacy Assisted Living Center in Jackson.

Born in 1917, Grace was a lifelong and the oldest living resident of Dexter Township. She attended the country school at the corner of Dexter Townhall Road and North Territorial Road through the 8th grade and graduated from Pinckney High School in 1935.

She married Ernest N. Nickel in June of 1945 in Pinckney, MI. She loved nature, flowers, roses, and all kinds of animals. She also loved her second home in Lake St. Helen, MI.

She is survived by one son, Norman L. Nickel of Dexter, one daughter Patricia (Chris) Bennett of Chelsea, and a granddaughter Christina (Richard) Seyfried of Dexter. She was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Grace (Lamborn) Hinchey, her brothers: Reginald of Florida, and Lambert of Virginia, as well as her husband Ernest.

Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, June 10, 2015 at 11 a.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. Burial will take place at Pinckney Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 5-8 p.m., and on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, please give to the Washtenaw County 4-H Youth Programs or the Huron Valley Humane Society.

Kerry John Gauss
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 62, passed away on Monday, June 1, 2015, at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor.

He was born on April 8, 1953, in Ann Arbor, the son of Melvin and Rosemary (Messner) Gauss. He was an electrician for Local 252 Ann Arbor for 35-plus years. He was an avid outdoor enthusiast and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and shooting sporting clays. He also enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife Tamia A. (Cochran) Gauss, sons Kevin Gauss of Escanaba and Nathan (Mackenzie) Gauss of Marquette, and two brothers, Kim Gauss of Ann Arbor and Kris Gauss of Texas.

Visitation will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Saturday, June 6, 2015, from 5-8 p.m.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the St. Joseph Mercy Cancer Center in Chelsea.

Marilyn A. Hinckley
Ann Arbor, MI

Age 85, died peacefully on May 31, 2015 at Towsley Village in Chelsea, MI.

She was born Feb. 11, 1930 to Arthur H. and Mabel (Davis) Becht in Detroit, MI and married Marinus Hinckley Jr. on July 22, 1950 in Saline, MI. Marilyn was a beloved wife, mother and grandmother. She dedicated her life to her family.

She is survived by her three children Roger (Debbie) Hinckley of Parma, MI Mark (Judy) Hinckley of Saline, MI and Becky (Rick) Rybarsyk of Ann Arbor, MI and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She will be cremated with no services scheduled and buried at Lodi Cemetery in Saline, MI.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Biberdorf,-Donald-webDonald E. Biberdorf
of Chelsea, formerly of Plymouth, Michigan

Age 81, died Friday, May 29, 2015, at the Residence of Arbor Hospice in Ann Arbor.

He was born on Oct. 10, 1933, in Trail, British Columbia, Canada, the son of Ernst and Helen (Koehler) Biberdorf. Don served in Germany during the Korean War in the U.S. Army. Prior to his retirement, he worked for Dow Chemical Company in the automotive industry.

In retirement, he filled his time volunteering as a driver with Meals On Wheels and FISH of Plymouth. He enjoyed spending time with his family, gardening, maintaining the perfect lawn, keeping the memorial garden at Silver Maples weed-free, watching sports, playing pool with his fellow sharks at Silver Maples, listening to Rush Limbaugh and ranting about liberals.

Surviving are his wife, Janet (Jan); his daughters Ann (Tim) Smith of Ypsilanti and Lynn Carter of Kirksville, Missouri; his brothers and sisters: Roy (Valerie) Biberdorf of Knoxville, TN, Joan (Charles) Nenow of Wilkesboro, NC, Ralph (Carole) Biberdorf of Florrisant, MO, and Marilyn (Allen) Hellwege of Valparaiso, IN; in-laws: Kathy and Dennis Simbirski of Calgary, Alberta, and John and Esperanza Nauss of Brentwood, CA; and his beloved grandchildren: Ethan Smith, and Nolon and Rosie Carter.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2015, at The Meadows of Silver Maples in Chelsea with Pastor Jeff Crowder officiating.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Arbor Hospice or the Silver Maples Employee Scholarship Fund.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Hodder,-Robert-webRobert George Hodder
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 75, passed away on Monday, June 1, 2015, in Adrian, MI, after a brave battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.

He was born on March 31, 1940, in Detroit, to Amelia Bailey Hodder and Charles Hodder, DVM. He attended St. James Grade School in Ferndale and graduated from St. James High School in 1959. He then graduated from Michigan State University where he was a member of the Delta Chi Fraternity. He graduated as a First Lieutenant in the Infantry and immediately went to Fort Hood, Texas, where he trained troops for hand to hand combat in Viet Nam. He received a Master’s Degree from the University of Detroit and then went to work for the Department of Corrections. He was a probation officer for Washtenaw County for 30 years with a short stint at Cassidy Lake as Director of Treatment and a two year position at Jackson Community College as Assistant Dean of Criminal Justice.

He married Daphne Jacques Treado on Feb. 23, 1974, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Ypsilanti and happily became the step-father to her five children. His hobbies were many – he earned a black belt in Judo and Aikido, was an accomplished amateur magician, built many electrical remote control boats, took up woodworking, and not to mention his love of war gaming.

Bob was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea since 1974 and he taught religious education there for four years and ushered for 20 years. He was very happy to help Dr. Tony Sensoli in coaching the U of M Boxing Team which he did for two years after his retirement. After retirement he also worked part-time for Circuit Court Security and then as a bailiff for Judge Cedric Simpson in 14-A District Court.

The Civil War was an interest that Bob and Daphne shared, visiting almost every battle site except for Bull Run. Their favorite was Shiloh. Another mutual interest was the theatre, and they attended all of the Purple Rose productions in Chelsea as well as attending the Shakespeare Festival in Canada for 35 years. Bob was very proud of his Native American background – he was 40 percent Ottawa Indian and a member of the Little River Band based in Northwestern Michigan.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son William Hodder of Petoskey, his five step-children: Howard Treado (Denise), Reatha Tweedie (Mark), Tim Treado (Becky), Anne Mann (John), and Kathleen Daniels (Jeff); 13 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by siblings Charles Hodder (Mickey), Richard Hodder (Sharon), and Patricia Bussell (Charles). He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters.

The family would like to thank the staff of MagnumCare and Great Lakes Hospice of Adrian for their wonderful care of Bob.

Cremation has taken place and the family will greet friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea on Sunday, June 7, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., with Vigil at 7:30 p.m. Mass will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, June 8, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with visitation at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of mass.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or Great Lakes Caring of Adrian.

Robinovitz-StewartStewart Henry Robinovitz
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 75, died Sunday, May 31, 2015 at University of Michigan Hospital surrounded by family.

He was born Nov. 10, 1939 in Bridgeport, Connecticut, the son of Isadore “Izzy” and Rose G. (Zalkind) Robinovitz.

Stewart graduated from Emerson College of Boston with a degree in Theater, and he earned his Masters from the University of Michigan in Radio and Television. He worked at U of M’s Institute of Social Research, and later in information technology, retiring in 2001.

Stewart was a committee member of the Haehnle Audubon Sanctuary. He was also on the Waterloo Farm Museum Board. Stewart worked as a Lyndon Township Election Judge and Board of Review member. He was an active member at Temple Beth Emeth, were he served on the finance committee. He worked on the web sites of all the organizations above. Stewart loved nature, and recently enjoyed fly fishing with his friend, Charlie. He enjoyed hiking, downhill and cross country skiing, was an avid bicyclist, and loved animals. Above all else, he was a loving and devoted father and husband.

On Feb. 6, 1976, he married Helena Marie Hodgson in Ann Arbor, and she survives. Other survivors include a son, Isaac (Annemarie) of Chicago; a daughter, Miriam of Chicago; and several cousins whom he was close to since childhood.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, June 2, 11 a.m. at Temple Beth Emeth, 2309 Packard St, Ann Arbor, Michigan with Rabbi Robert D. Levy officiating. Burial will follow at Arborcrest Memorial Park, Ann Arbor.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Jackson Audubon Haehnle Sanctuary, Michigan Heart of St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, or Temple Beth Emeth of Ann Arbor. No flowers, please.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Radcliffe,-Pamela-webPamela Harbison Radcliffe

Age 69, died peacefully at her home on Friday, May 29, 2015 after a courageous battle with ALS.

Pam was an active member of the Chelsea community and a former assistant director of the Chelsea Chamber of Commerce. Prior to that, Pam fed her love for fashion as a buyer of women’s clothing for Jacobson’s department store.

After Pam’s retirement, she used her extra time to serve as a founding member of the Board of Directors for the Adult Learners Institute of Chelsea, and to shower love on her gardens, birds, friends and family—especially her grandchildren.

Born July 20, 1945, Pam was the widow of her first love, Jack C. Radcliffe, Jr., and is survived by her best friend and loving companion of 16 years, Richard Dice; her children, Kevin Radcliffe and Shana (Radcliffe) Fisher, and their spouses, Michelle Radcliffe and Jeremy Fisher; her grandchildren, Sophia Fisher, Jack Radcliffe, Corinne Fisher and Blake Radcliffe; her dear friend and cousin, Marcia White; her cherished aunts, Bethel White and Geri White; and her friends and siblings by marriage, Tom and Barb Radcliffe and Randy Hellman. Pam was also preceded in death by her mother, Ruth (Robert) Peabody, and father, Keith (Florence) Harbison.

A celebration of Pam’s life will take place Friday, June 5, from 3-6 p.m. at the Village Conference Center in Chelsea, MI, with a toast to occur at 5 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Pam’s memory may be made to Adult Learners Institute of Chelsea, Michigan, the National Audubon Society, or a charity of your choice.

Kennedy,-Dale-webDale G. Kennedy – A Life Well Lived

Dale G. Kennedy, Bette’s spouse of nearly 64 years, passed away peacefully on his beloved Manchester Farm on a still, warm, blue-skied day, May 23, 2015.

Dale loved Bette, loved his family, and loved his friends, colleagues, community, and animals. He is and will be missed very much.

No matter how sick Dale was over the latter part of his life, he constantly exuded warmth and love for Bette. On their 50th Wedding Anniversary Dale proved to be a challenging customer for the local florist as he ordered a different beautiful flower for all 52 weeks of that anniversary year, picking up the latest special flower and delivering it with love to Bette each-and-every week of that entire year.

Nothing made Dale happier than being with and supporting his family. He constantly spoke with pride and love about his sons Michael and Scott, his daughter-in-laws Marikay and Merrilee, his grandchildren Megan and her spouse David, Michael and his spouse Allison, Seth, Abigail, and Mackenzie, and his great grand-children Madison, David, and Michael. They all loved him very much.

Dale was a good brother to his brothers Jack and Keith and to his sister Sue, and they were good brothers and a sister to him. They were all hard-working, highly principled, and talented business-people, which they learned from their parents Margaret and John Kennedy.

Dale benefited from the love and care of several talented and dedicated care-givers. They provided great comfort and support to Dale and Bette over the last several years.

Dale thrived in his nearly 70 years in the trucking industry, loving his work—competing for business, serving his customers, and enjoying the comradery as he worked hard with his many work colleagues over the years. He began his tenure with his father John as a very young teenager, his father being a respected trucking industry leader. Dale owned and/or managed many trucking companies—Shippers and Receivers Delivery Service, Ace Doran, Eck Miller, and El Toro amongst others—and Dale G. Kennedy and Sons Warehouse, a steel warehousing and handling operation near Metro Airport. His greatest business joy was partnering with his son Michael, who eventually became an accomplished trucking business owner of his own.

Dale was involved in community activities over his lifetime too numerous to count, but had a special place in his heart for his work, along with that of Bette, in Garden City’s St. David’s Episcopal Church, as a leader in Detroit MacKenzie’s Alumni Association, in Manchester’s Community Resource Center, and with Bette in the Humane Society of Huron Valley. He fondly recounted when he coached his Garden City Federal League All-Star Team to the runner-up slot in the Michigan state tournament, falling just short of the team’s goal of a slot in the Little League World’s Series, and his time bowling with his transportation pals in the Detroit Traffic Club league.

Dale served with distinction in the United States Air Force during the Korean War.

Dale and Bette moved from Garden City to their beloved farm in Manchester in 1974, which allowed their love of animals of all shapes and sizes to blossom. They rescued too many animals to count. Those who know Dale and Bette likely recall them walking their many dogs across their farm fields, curled up on the couch with a dog, or two, or three, or feeding and attending to their many indoor and outdoor animals—dogs (sometimes more .than a dozen at a time), cats (often six or more at a time), horses, ponies, burros, goats, sheep, pigs, steers, geese, ducks, and peacocks. Many a visitor remembers the chorus of barks and howls as they approached the Kennedy Farm. All the animals were very well cared for and fortunate to be the object of Dale and Bette’s affection.

It is hard to describe what we all intuitively knew about Dale, besides his strong love for Bette. We knew or sensed that Dale was unwaveringly and constantly generous to all he encountered irrespective of how well they knew Dale or their life circumstances. Only with Dale’s passing did we learn from those we have encountered how often and how constantly Dale helped others.

Dale Kennedy’s life is a life well lived. He is and will be missed very much.

A celebration of Dale Kennedy’s life will be held in the afternoon of Sunday, June 28, 2015, on his Manchester farm. Details will be provided in this same publication once confirmed. You may contact Scott at 231-796-1649 for further information.

Westcott,-Jay-webJay R. Westcott
of Munith, Michigan

Age 39, passed away on Sunday, May 17, 2015. He was born on Dec. 29, 1975, in Ann Arbor, MI, the son of Richard and Linda (Hale) Westcott.

Jay worked in construction for several years for the Local 499 Union in Ann Arbor. He had lived in the area for the past five years and enjoyed treasure hunting, metal detecting, hunting for morel mushrooms, listening to music, attending his kids’ sporting events, and watching all kinds of sports.

He is survived by his father Rick Westcott of Munith; four children: Jonathan Westcott (age 19), Romell Westcott (age 18), Loretta Westcott (age 16), and Luther Westcott (age 13); his grandmother Priscilla “Tootsie” Hale of Chelsea; the mother of his children, Theresa Royce of Manchester; and his loving companion, Diane Monroe of Munith.

Also surviving are his siblings, Shasey Ball of Chelsea and Rick Jr. (Meagan) Westcott of Chelsea, his aunts and uncles: Dianna (David) Roberts of Manchester, AJ (Belinda) Hale of Marshall, Alan (Linda) Hale of Chelsea, Cathy (Bob) Wren of Whitmore Lake, Chris Collinsworth of Chelsea, and Anita (Mike) Spears of Chelsea, along with several cousins, two nieces, and two nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother Linda Westcott, grandparents AJ Hale and Richard and Mary Lou Westcott, and two cousins, Andrew Roberts and Michael Spears.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 3, 2015, from 5-8 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea. Private interment will take place at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to an education fund for Jay’s children.

Moore,-Charles-webCharles R. Moore
of Grand Blanc, MI, formerly of Chelsea

Age 85, died Saturday, May 23, 2015 at the Genesys Convalescent Center in Grand Blanc.

He was born April 11, 1930 in Adrian, MI the son of William F. and Beulah (Stoltz) Moore. He was an active member of the Chelsea Free Methodist Church and loved his family.

On Aug. 19, 1961 he married Suzanne Field in Detroit, MI and she preceded him in death in 2008. Surviving are two daughters: Kim (Tony) Verardi of Chelsea, and Pam (Andy) Verardi of Grand Blanc; three grandchildren Danielle, Dominic, and Alicia, and one great-grandson, Zeke. He was also preceded in death by two brothers and one sister.

Memorial Services will be held Friday, May 29, 2015 at 11 a.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home with Pastor Jeff Ford officiating. Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Chelsea Free Methodist Church. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Benedict-Carol2Carol Ann Benedict
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 74, died peacefully Friday, May 22, 2015 with her family at her side.

She was born Aug. 11, 1940 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Norman G. and Ardith L. (Rust) Smits.

Carol was a member of the Chelsea First United Methodist Church, where she was involved in the Christian Home Group, Chancel Choir, and Creative Play. She enjoyed belonging to the United Methodist Bridge Club, “Sit and Stitch”, and Quilting Club.

On Nov. 11, 1961, she married Robert F. Young, and he preceded her in death on April 10, 1968. On Dec. 27, 1970 she married Robert Benedict Jr., and he survives. Other survivors include her mother, Ardith Smits; two sons, Bruce (Sue) Young of Texas, Robert (Carol) Benedict III; three daughters, Michal Ann (Bob) Enders of Middleville, Sandra (Joseph) Lantis of Chelsea, Susan (Bryan) Young-Markey of Illinois; a brother Norman Smits; a sister, Phyllis Smits; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her first husband, she was preceded in death by her father, Norman Smits.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, May 27, 11 a.m. at Chelsea First United Methodist Church, with Rev. Joy Barrett officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea.

The family will receive friends Cole Funeral Chapel Monday 6-8 p.m. and Tuesday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., and at the church Wednesday 10-11 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea First United Methodist Church or the Rafiki Foundation.

Hochrein-EdwinErwin George Hochrein Jr.
Dexter, Michigan

Age 85, died Wednesday, May 20, 2015 at his home.

He was born April 18, 1930 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Erwin George and Alma (Kalmbach) Hochrein Sr.

Erwin was a Charter Member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea, where he was active as a trustee and usher, and was also on the kitchen committee and in Silver Streaks. He was a plumber his whole life, and a member of Local 190.He was a Korean War Veteran who earned a Bronze Star and Purple Heart, and was a member of the American Legion in Dexter. He was also a Charter Member of the Dexter Lions.

Erwin enjoyed hunting and fishing at the family cabin in Lewiston, MI. On Sunday afternoons, he played softball for St. Paul Lutheran Church with other teams in the league. He was active with his sons with their Boy Scout activities and sporting events. Erwin and Barb lived in the same house since the day they were married.

On June 16, 1956 he married Barbara Seitz at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor, and she survives. Other survivors include three sons, Bruce (Lucinda) of Ann Arbor, Brian (Laurie) of Milan, and Bradley (Michelle) of Dexter; 8 grandchildren, Isaac, Daniel, Nicholas, Aidan, Brennan, Tyler, James, and Katherine. He was preceded in death by an infant brother, Neil.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 23, 10:30 a.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church, with Rev. Dale Grimm officiating. Burial will follow at Bethlehem Cemetery in Ann Arbor. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Friday 2-4 and 6-9 p.m. and at church Saturday 9:30-10:30 am.

Memorial contributions may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1515 S. Main St., Chelsea, MI 48118.

Rowe_Virginia-cropped_edited-1Virginia R. (Burg) Rowe
of Chelsea, MI

Age 93, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2015 at Jackson Countryside Care Center, with her children at her side. She was born Dec. 2, 1921 in Chelsea, Michigan, the daughter of J. Vincent and Mary (Spirnagle) Burg.

Virginia graduated from Chelsea High School in 1939 and married her high school sweetheart Duane Rowe on April 14, 1941 at St. Mary Catholic Church. She began her work career as a short order cook at her father’s pharmacy, Burg’s Corner Drug Store, as a teenager. In the early fifties, she started working at the Chelsea Spring Plant. She was a camp cook at the Mill Lake outdoor center in the mid-fifties and also managed the small diner in the Sylvan hotel.

In the summer of 1958 and ‘59, she ran the Chelsea Dairy Queen, which was owned by her father. In the sixties, she decided to learn to play the organ, and so impressed the store owner that he hired her to manage the Nalli Music Store in Chelsea for many years. She and Duane also had a working farm while raising their four children.

Virginia was fortunate to be able to retire to Florida with Duane in her early sixties where they spent over twenty winters as proud owners at Saddlebag Lake Resort in Lake Wales, Florida, where they made many friends. The last couple of years of her life she was very well cared for by the staff at Countryside Care Center in Jackson. She was also very fortunate to have a very close family, including her siblings.

Survivors include her husband, Duane; her sons, David (Joanne) Rowe, Douglas (Shirley) Rowe; her daughter, Lowene (Jeff) Hughes; son-in-law Ron Lorenzen; all of Grass Lake; a brother, Vince (Shirley) Burg; a sister, Pat Burg Dietz; eight grandchildren, Daniel, John, Darin, Patrick, Kurt, Kelly, Rodney, Dwana; many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and many loving nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Jeannene Lorenzen in December, 2014; four sisters, Mary Jane Lanning, Louise Guirey, Angeline Foster and Gretchen Spaulding.

A Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, May 23, at 11a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea. Family will receive friends at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Waterloo, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to Waterloo Natural History Association, St. Louis School in Chelsea, or St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

KemmishRosemaryCroppedRosemary June Kemmish
Chelsea, MI

Age 81, passed away Monday, May 4, 2015 after having a bowl of ice cream at her home.

She was born June 4, 1933 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Alexander and Jennie (Harper) Ewen.

Rosemary was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor. She was a secretary in the Mathematics Department at The University of Michigan, and worked for Ford Motor Co. before that, where she met her husband Jim.

On Nov. 27, 1965, she married James V. Kemmish, and he preceded her in death on Feb. 3, 2014. Survivors include a daughter, Corrine Kemmish of Ann Arbor; three sons, Kenneth of Southfield, Kyle of Pierson, and Lee (Erin) of Livonia; five grandchildren, Kayleigh, Ashton, Briana, Rylee, and Baylee; and a nephew, Kevin Schaeffer. She was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter-in-law, Katherine, and a sister, Ellen Schaefer.

Committal service will be held at Zion Lutheran Memorial Gardens in Ann Arbor. Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church, 1501 W. Liberty St, Ann Arbor, MI 48103.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

DoletzkyJuneJune Teckla (Aiken) Doletzky
Dexter, MI

June went to be with her Lord May 7, 2015. She was at home with her family at the time of her death.

June was born in Iron River, MI on February 24, 1918. She was the sixth of nine children to William and Teckla (Helstrum) Aiken. She moved to the Dexter area in 1937 and worked as a ward helper at the U of M Hospital for two years. She met her husband Earl when he was working in the U.P. with the U of M Forestry School. They married in 1939 and resided on the Dexter Township family farm for the rest of their lives.

June worked for Dexter Community Schools in the food service department for eight years. She was a charter member of the Dexter American Legion Auxiliary Post 557 serving as President and Past President for many years. She was also an active volunteer at the VA hospital. She also enjoyed 35 years on a local bowling league at the Dexter Bowling Alley. June was a longstanding member of Faith Lutheran Church and active in Faith Ladies Aid.

June’s summer activities included camping at Riker and Four Mile Lake. She also enjoyed traveling with her sister and the Senior Citizens’ group to Scandinavia, Egypt, Hawaii, Venezuela and Alaska. Canning home grown fruits and vegetables and baking traditional Swedish coffee cakes with family members were a favorite pastime. June always took great pride in her appearance and fashion. She had a love for flowers and bird watching. June spent many years enjoying her grandchildren, setting examples of graciousness, kindness, and love of family and life. She was the family matriarch and will be missed terribly.

She is survived by siblings Bob Aiken and Carmen Brey; daughters, Sharon Abrass, Terry (Ed) Stacey and Julie Knight; 10 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband; siblings Clyde “Dutch”, Marge, Earl, Roy, Bill, Ruth; 2 grandchildren, Lori and James Richards; and son-in law James Knight.

A memorial service will be held at Faith Lutheran Church, 9575 N. Territorial Rd, Dexter, MI on Monday, May 18 at 11 a.m. The family will receive friends at the church from 10-11 a.m. A luncheon will follow at the Dexter American Legion Hall. A private interment will take place at Forest Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials contributions may be made to the American Legion Post 557, American Cancer Society or Faith Lutheran Church.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

Patoros,-John-webJohn Lewis Patoros
of Ann Arbor, Michigan

Age 82, passed away on Monday, May 4, 2015, at the Saline Evangelical Home.

He was a lifelong resident of Ann Arbor and was born on March 30, 1933, the son of Louis and Mary Patoros. John graduated from Ann Arbor High School in 1951 and two years later married the love of his life, Patricia “Patty” Pateck.

John served in the military from 1953 to 1955 and was a veteran of the Korean War. In 1956 he was hired by Michigan Consolidated Gas Company as a service installer and later became a supervisor of service and meter reading, retiring in 1988 after 32 years. He also was owner of and operated J.P. Vending Business in those same years. He was also a retired member of the Law Enforcement and Industrial Security Association of Washtenaw County where he received the highest award in 1992 for valor.

John was also an amateur radio operator and for 11 years took messages from soldiers in the Vietnam War to their parents. He spent many hours at this. John was a very caring man who was always there to help anyone in need. He liked to play cards and board games as well as having coffee with his friends at Meijer on Jackson Road. He was a die-hard Wolverine football fan and his last sentence stated how much he loved being at Washtenaw Dairy hanging out with the gang.

Surviving are four children: Mary A. Patoros of Ann Arbor, Jerret L. Patoros of Ann Arbor, Dianna R. Cok (Tom) of Pinckney, and John S. Patoros (Lori) of California, and two grandchildren, Nelson M. Guenther of Ann Arbor and Briana R. Patoros of North Carolina. Also surviving is a lifelong friend, Ms. June Parker, who in later years became an important person in his life.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 8, 2015, at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. Burial will follow at Bethlehem Cemetery in Ann Arbor. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 6-8 p.m. Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Joseph Mercy Chelsea Hospital Behavioral Health.

Elkins,-Shirley-webShirley Jean Elkins
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 73, passed away at home on Thursday, April 30, 2015.

She was born on May 1, 1941, in Lake, Kentucky, the daughter of Creed Russell Howard and Irene (Roberts). On Feb. 11, 1962, she married Bobby Joe Elkins in Wayne, MI, and he preceded her in death on March 3, 2014. Shirley had lived in the area since 1977, coming from Westland. She enjoyed coaching softball, horses, and was involved with the Brownies and Girl Scouts.

Surviving are three children: Lynn (Mark) Hanson of Chelsea, Chuck Elkins of Chelsea, and Patty (LaVern) Corser of Jackson; six grandchildren: Douglas (Casey) Demory, Stephanie (Brandon) Pratto, Tracie Elkins, Shawn Elkins, Chase Elkins, and Bobby Corser; three great-grandchildren: Norah Demory, Braxson Pratto, and Blake Demory; her brother Harold Roberts of Chelsea and sister Mae Peters of Ohio. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her son Dwayne Elkins and two brothers, Russell and Charles.

A Funeral Service will take place at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 4, 2015, at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Pastor Toby Teague officiating. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery (Grass Lake West). The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Joseph Mercy Chelsea Hospital or the Wounded Warrior Project.

Weiner,-Raymond-III-web2Raymond John Weiner III
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 38, passed away following a brief illness on Tuesday, April 28, 2015, at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor.

He was born on March 23, 1977, in Ann Arbor, MI, the son of Raymond J. and Janet Ann (Haab) Weiner II. Ray was a lifelong Chelsea resident and graduated from Chelsea High School in 1995. He worked as a front desk supervisor at Webers Inn in Ann Arbor. He is remembered for his great sense of humor and ability to make everyone laugh. He was a people person, enjoying entertaining, cooking, and bartending. He also enjoyed playing disc golf, flower arranging, magic, poker, video games, music, Wednesday night “South Park” parties, and spending time with his many friends. He loved his cat Toker.

Surviving are his parents, Ray and Janet Weiner, his sister Ann (Tim) Hall, his grandmother Tema Haab, his god parents Jim and Diane Haab, and his girlfriend Melissa Sayer. He was preceded in death by his grandparents Raymond and Golda Weiner Sr. and Waldemar G. Haab.

A Funeral Service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 2, 2015, at St. Thomas Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor. Burial will follow at St. Thomas Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Friday from 3-8 p.m.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Thomas Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor or Friends of Michigan Animals Rescue in Belleville.

Samborn,-Marguirete-webMarguirete Eunice “Mick” (McPhall) Samborn

Age 90, wife of Albert Samborn, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 21, 2015, at the Chelsea Retirement Community Glazier Commons in Chelsea, Michigan.

Born Oct. 16, 1924, in Clare, MI, she was the youngest daughter of the late Albert and Lulu (Davis) McPhall. Marguirete graduated from Clare High School in Clare, MI, in 1944. She was married on Dec. 21, 1946, and moved with her husband Al, who was attending the University of Michigan on the GI Bill, to Dexter, MI, where she lived the rest of her life.

Marguirete never lost the “Mc” from her maiden name, and was lovingly called Mick by friends and family. She was a stay at home mom to her two children, Jim and Cheryl, and was always active in their school endeavors, teaching sewing classes and serving as monitor at many school functions. She was active in Red Cross, Girl Scouts, and PTA. Although she weathered battles with breast cancer, open heart surgery, two broken hips and pelvis, Parkinson’s disease, and broken bones from osteoporosis, one never heard her complain.

She set the example for gracious acceptance, and always mentioned how blessed she was. She will be fondly remembered as a loving mother and grandmother, loyal friend to many, and a devoted wife to her doting husband, who loved her dearly.

Marguirete is preceded in death by her sisters, Grethel McPhall Eisenhower and Evelyn McPhall Weadle. She is survived by her loving husband, Albert of Dexter, MI, her sister, Lucelia “Pat” McPhall McDonald of Clare, MI, her children, James Samborn of Ann Arbor, MI, and Cheryl Dell’Anno of Rancho Santa Margarita, California, her three grandchildren, Alison Samborn Uher, Lara Gino, and Anthony Dell’Anno Jr., and great-grandchildren, John and Henry Gino, and Kaeley, Max, and Annelise Dell’Anno.

The family will receive friends and family at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea on Friday, April 24, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or the Chelsea Retirement Community.

Rice_Jennifer_2_croppedJennifer D. Rice
Grass Lake, MI

Age 74, died Monday, April 20, 2015 at home with her family.

She was born Feb. 28, 1941 in Livonia, Michigan, the daughter of Joseph D. and Belvidera D. (Walter) Hibbs.

Jennifer grew up in Waterloo, and was a graduate of Chelsea High School Class of 1959. She was a member of the Chelsea Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Jennifer loved her grandchildren and the Detroit Tigers. She also enjoyed painting, quilting, and bird watching.

Rice_Jennifer_1_croppedOn June 21, 1958 she married Jerry D. Williams, and he preceded her in death in August 1977. On Nov. 20, 1982, she married Robert W. Rice in Grass Lake, and he survives. Other survivors include 3 children, Debbie (Dave) Brady, Diane (John) Letcher, Jeffrey (Sara) Williams; three stepchildren, Brenda (Bryan) Little, Carrie (Jason) Braun, Dawna Rice; 15 grandchildren, Amanda, Jeremy, Jake, Dana, John, Carly, Savanna, Cassidy, Lydia, Caden, Paige, Quintin, Aiden, Alba, Brody; 3 great-grandchildren, Brailynn, Owen, Landon; 5 siblings, James (Gloria), Jacqueline Koehler, Jan Dean, Joe (Beverly), Joline (Jim) Monaghan and brother-in-law, Dick Moore. She was preceded in death by a sister, Diette Moore and grandson Keagan Williams.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 25, 2 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 17690 W. Old US 12, Chelsea. Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

PerrineKarenKaren Joy Perrine
of Ann Arbor, MI

Age 74, died Saturday, April 18, 2015 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital.
She was born Nov. 4, 1940 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Donald and Martha (Stevens) Clark .

Karen retired from Ann Arbor Schools in 1993 as a school bus driver. She was a tribal member of The Choctaw Nation. Karen enjoyed getting together with family and friends.

On June 10, 1962, she married William Perrine in Whitmore Lake, and he preceded her in death on Aug. 16, 2012. Survivors include a son, Jerry (Lynnette) Perrine of Brighton; two grandchildren, Laura and Joshua Perrine; a sister, Patsy Riggs of Whitmore Lake; two brothers, Tim Clark and Michael Clark, both of Oklahoma; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, May 3, 3 p.m. at Ann Arbor First Church of the Nazarene, with Rev. Ann Salyer officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to First Church of the Nazarene, 2780 Packard Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

PiersonMarionMarian May Pierson
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 90, died Friday, April 17, 2015 at her home.

She was born May 3, 1924 in Chelsea, the daughter of Julius L. and Alma K. (Eschelbach) Eisele.

Marian was a Chelsea High School Graduate class of 1942. She served in WAVES during WWII. Marian worked for John Keusch and Pete Flintoft for many years. She was a lifetime member of St. Paul United Church of Christ.

She met John C. Pierson in the service and they were married on Dec. 7, 1945 in San Diego. He preceded her in death on July 22, 2007. Survivors include a brother Eldean Eisele of Chelsea; her God-children, Jeanine Frey and Brian Arnett; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A memorial service will be held Friday, April 24, 11 a.m. at St. Paul United Church of Christ, Chelsea with Pastor Jim Coyl officiating. The family will receive friends Friday at the church from 10-11 a.m. A private burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul United Church of Christ. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

 

Fox_Randy_cropped2Randall “Randy” G. Fox
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 63, died unexpectedly Saturday, April 11, 2015 at his home. He was born Aug. 23, 1951 in Big Rapids, Michigan, the son of Clayton Graham and Isabelle A. (Newell) Fox.

Randy graduated from Fremont High School in 1969. He attended Ferris State University, until he was drafted into the U.S. Army. Randy served as an MP in Vietnam. He graduated from ITT with a degree in Computer Programing. Randy worked as a supervisor in Automation Services at U of M for the last 20 years. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, where he and Lynn were head ushers for many years. Randy was a member of Inverness Country Club, and also active in the Dexter Knights of Columbus and worked for Habitat for Humanity and National Relief Network trips for disaster relief. He coached soccer, T-Ball, and Little League in Chelsea. Randy participated in Boy Scouts with his son, including a trip to Philmont. He enjoyed hunting and his annual fishing trips to Canada with friends and family. Randy ran many marathons and recently earned his Scuba Diving License.

On April 4, 1975 he married Lynn A. Hoyt, in Fremont, MI, and she survives. Other survivors include a son, Jason (Holly) Fox of Lansing; four siblings, Barb (the late Larry) Corbusier of Minnetonka, MN, Steve (Suzy) of Long Island, NY, David (Becky) of East Lansing, Bruce (Deb) of Stockton, NY; many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Katherine Fox in 2002 and his parents.

A mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, April 17, 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Country Church, Dexter, with Fr. Brendan J. Walsh presiding. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea, Michigan. The family will receive friends at St. Joseph Country Church Thursday 1-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. (with a Scripture Service at 7:30 p.m.) and Friday 10-11 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity Catholic House, Huron Valley Humane Society, or the Dexter K of C.

Smith,-Herbert-webHerbert Jerome Smith Jr.
of Grass Lake, Michigan

Age 78, passed away at his home on Sunday, April 12, 2015, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

He was born on July 25, 1936, in Wyandotte, MI, the son of Herbert J. Sr. and Fannie Mae (Hill) Smith. On July 4, 1987, he married Judith Kay Sturm in South Lyon; she survives.

Herb lived in the area for the past 30 years, coming from Ann Arbor. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving during the Korean War, was a member of the American Legion Herbert J. McKune Post 31 in Chelsea, and had worked as an electrician for 25 years at Ford Motor Co. for UAW Local 892, retiring in 2001. Herb loved the outdoors.

In addition to his wife, surviving are their children: Jeff (Annette) Smith of Mt. Pleasant, Jason (Stacey) Smith of Brighton, Jeremy (Samantha) Smith of Ypsilanti, Jennifer (Brendan) Smith of Whitmore Lake, Josh (Erin) Smith of Clinton Twp., Thomas (Denise) Nowatzke of Ann Arbor, Jennifer (Darryl) Spicher of Grosse Pointe Woods, and Jill Nowatzke (Matthew Katon) of Unadilla Twp.; his grandchildren: Dalton Spero, Eric Spero, Vincent Nowatzke, Matilda Seagraves, Brock Spicher, Gianna Nowatzke, Brynn Spicher, Delaney Bachman, Charlotte Bachman, Ava Nowatzke, Elinor Bachman, and Chloe Smith; and extended family member, Linton Prieskorn of Ann Arbor. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2015, at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea with Rev. Dale Grimm officiating. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Wednesday from 6-8 p.m., and also at the church on Thursday from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Michigan Humane Society, Alzheimer’s Association, or Our Savior Lutheran Church, Chelsea.

LantisJohnJohn Murray Lantis
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Napoleon

Age 77, died Sunday, April 12, 2015 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital – Chelsea, after a long illness.

He was born Oct. 13, 1937 in Chelsea, Michigan, the son of Robert R. and Agnes Emeline (Pitts) Lantis.

John graduated from Napoleon High School in 1955. He operated the family grocery business, AandB IGA in Napoleon, and later worked at the IGA in Brooklyn. John enjoyed going to the Napoleon Cafe with his friends. He loved to play and watch basketball.

He is survived by two sons, Eric (Raquel) Lantis of Chelsea, David Lantis of Hesperia, CA, and their mother, Charlene Johnson of Jackson; two brothers, Jay (Rickie) Lantis, Duane (Nita) Lantis; a sister, Mary Merkel; six grandchildren, Gabrielle, Lillian, Harrison, Henry, Kristen, Jenifer. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Dena Lantis in 1990.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 18, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Rev. Jeff Bradley officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Jackson County Medical Care Facility.

Little,-Dorothy-webDorothy Mae “Dottie” Little
of Jackson, Michigan

Age 81, passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2015, at Legacy Assisted Living in Jackson.

She was born on March 17, 1934, in Kevil, Kentucky, the daughter of James Owen Stewart and Eva M. (Long) Little. She had lived in the area since 2010, coming from Saline and previously Amelia Island in Florida. Dottie had worked as a rental property manager. Her hobbies included reading, dancing, watching TV, and she loved dogs, especially her “Sissy.”

Surviving are her children: G. Randall Misner of Georgia, Penny (Dave) Guenther of Saline, Gerald (Tina) Misner of Lafayette, Indiana, and Robin (Brian) Freed of Lafayette, IN; six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; and her siblings: William (Brenda) Little of Illinois, Betty Kinkle of California, and sister-in-law Michelle Little of Florida. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son Robbie Misner and her brother Thomas Little.

A Memorial Service will be held at 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2015, at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. David Bucholtz officiating. Visitation will be from 2 p.m. until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to the Humane Society of Huron Valley in Ann Arbor.

SavageCarolCarol Mae Savage
Manchester, MI

Age 88, died Saturday, April 4, 2015 at the University of Michigan Hospital. She was born May 15, 1926, the daughter of Arthur and Olga (Zeman) Heyn.

Carol was a daughter, sister, niece, aunt, great-aunt, wife, mother, sister-in-law, grandmother, mother-in-law, Sunday school teacher, 1st grade public school teacher, “Grandma Story”, choir member, Girl Scout leader, Cub Scout den leader, Stephen’s minister, and friend.

Carol was born in Saginaw, and shortly thereafter moved to Toledo, Ohio with her two sisters and mother to live with her grandparents, Joseph and Florence Zeman. Besides her family, the church was the center of Carol’s life, and became a second home. She was nurtured and confirmed in the faith at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Toledo. Both the pastoral and musical staff guided her closely. Carol has sung in church choirs for over 70 years, starting when she was 12 years old and was active at Zion Lutheran Church until her death.

When she was in high school and in the chancel choir at St. Paul’s in Toledo she was selected to sing the 7th verse of From Heaven Above To Earth Below all alone on the stage at the Paramont Theater. She also sang in the Methodist Church in the foyer before Christmas Eve services as people were entering. In addition, she sang in weddings and recitals. Carol attended the University of Toledo, and received her Bachelors and Masters degrees from Siena Heights University.

She taught 1st grade in Manchester for 17 years. Her children in school were taught to enjoy singing and the love of reading. In the words of her grandson, “She was the most selfless person I’ve ever met.”

In 1953, she married John A. Savage in Toledo, OH, and he survives. Other survivors include a son, John F. (Jeannie) Savage of Irvine, CA; a daughter, Jan (Steve) Hannah of Ann Arbor; a sister, Dr. Ruth Heyn of Ann Arbor; three grandchildren, Madison Savage, Zachary and Luke Hannah; and a nephew, Alan Kahl of WI. She was preceded in death by her sister, Betty Kahl; and two nephews, Michael Moon and Douglas Kahl.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 11, 3 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, Chelsea, with Pastor Kathy Tulman officiating. Disposition of ashes will take place at a later date. The family will receive friends Friday 2-4 and 6-8 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel, and Saturday from 1-3 p.m. at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church, UMRC Foundation, or Lutheran Social Services of Michigan.

Jenice Allen Kopczynski
of Chelsea, MI

Age 70, passed away on Monday, March 30, 2015 at her residence.

Born in Ironton, Ohio, she was the daughter of the late James and Sara Allen.

Jenice had lived in the Chelsea area for the past eight years, coming from Indianapolis, where she lived for nearly 40 years.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 36 years, James Joseph Kopczynski, her twin brother James Richard Allen, Jr. and her nephew Brian Barrett Cox.

Left to cherish her memory are her two daughters: Allison Kopczynski Brueckner (Sven) of Harrisonburg, VA and Teresa Kopczynski Middleton (James) of Greenwood, IN; sisters, Patty Allen Harcum (Jesse), Christine Allen Stacy (Scott) and Suzanne Allen Schroeder (Steve); grandchildren, Elise Middleton and Katarina Brueckner; nieces and nephews, Amy Stacy, Sean Allen, Michelle Allen, Carl Stacy III, Shep Stacy, Jennifer Myers and Damon Carroll.

She attended St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, MI.

There will be a private memorial service to be scheduled in Virginia. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church, 14200 E. Old US Hwy. 12, Chelsea, MI 48118.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

GerardKatie1Katie Gerard
Grass Lake, MI

Age 18, died Thursday, March 26, 2015 due to an automobile accident.

She was born July 26, 1996 in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, the daughter of Jean-Louis Gerard and Lindy (DuBois) Williams.

Katie was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She graduated from Beacon Day Treatment/Annapolis High School and was currently attending Jackson College, and working at Country Market in Chelsea. Katie loved making jewelry with beads, reading, and walking in natural areas. She had a sharp wit and was fun to be around. Katie aspired to be a social worker and help kids.

Survivors include her mother, Lindy Williams and step-father, Edward Williams of Grass Lake; her father, Jean-Louis Gerard of Belle River, Ontario; her grandparents, Gilbert and Maxine DuBois; her brother, Todd Heslop; her sisters Darlene Greenbird, Alyssa Gerard; step-sisters, Carolyn and Michael Fetner, Kristen Williams; aunts and uncles, Michelle and Mark Wrubel, Jennifer and Andy Zalinski, Vicki Allison and Staci Loszewski; cousins, Jack and John Zalinski, Destiny and Skyler Sparks; a niece, Aubrey, and a nephew, Brayden. She was preceded in death by her grandmothers, Sandy Storms and Mary DuBois.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, March 31, 11 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1330 N. Freer Rd, Chelsea. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Sunday 2-6 p.m. and Monday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

CookNicholas1Nicholas Eugene Cook
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Redwood, NY, Cheboygan, Dearborn, Dearborn Heights and Westland

Age 84, died Monday, March 16, 2015 at Chelsea Retirement Community.

He was born March 11, 1931 in Redwood, New York, the son of Henry John Albert and Theresa Bertha Helen (Trapp) Cook.

Nicholas graduated from Dearborn Fordson High School. He was in the US Army and stationed in Korea for 9 months. Nicholas retired from the Detroit Edison after 41 years. He was a longtime member of Atonement Lutheran Church in Dearborn. Nicholas belonged to the AMVETS, American Legion Post 31, and various clubs at Detroit Edison. He enjoyed bowling, golfing, hunting, gardening, and the Detroit Lions.

On June 14, 1952, he married Gloria Maryann Gombkoto at Atonement Lutheran Church in Dearborn, and she survives. Other survivors include a son, Scott Nicholas (Bonnie) Cook of Chelsea; a daughter, Lisa Ann (Joan Smart) Cook of Provincetown, MA; a brother, Dale (Karen) Cook of Brooklyn; a sister, Floreine (late James) O’Brien of Jenson Beach, FL; a sister-in-law, Velma Gombkoto of Chelsea; two grandchildren, Ryan Nicholas (Monica) Cook and Ashley Cook; 3 great-grandchildren, Landry, Hudson and Portia Cook; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and in-laws.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Burial will be at Glen Eden Memorial Park in Livonia. Memorial contributions may be made to American Legion Post 31 in Chelsea or the Salvation Army.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Watkins,-Charles--webCharles Watkins
of Dexter, Michigan

Age 88, passed away on Sunday, March 22, 2015, at St. Joseph Mercy Chelsea Hospital in Chelsea, MI. He was born on Sept. 19, 1926, in Hamtramck, MI, the son of Fred and Flora (Smith) Watkins. On Nov. 29, 1947, he married Dorothy June Mearnic in Wayne Co. and she preceded him in death in January 2007.

Charles was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during World War II. He worked in masonry for over 40 years and was a partner with his son for 32 years as Charles Watkins and Son. His hobbies included many outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, and finding mushrooms. He loved his homestead and raising Whitefaced Hereford cattle, and he enjoyed people.

Surviving are his children: Judith (Dennis) Ferrell of Dexter, Guy (Roxanne) Watkins of Indian River, Patricia Watkins of Dexter, Deborah (Robert) Giggey of Brighton, Kathy (John) Carroll of Manchester, and Constance (Marc) Toma of Dexter; 17 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren; his sisters, Marian (Jerry) Gautz of Florida and Peggy Mount of Plymouth; his sisters-in-law: Lois Watkins of Tawas, Marilyn (Jim) Knofski of Gregory, and Shirley (Jim) Gibson of Tecumseh, along with many nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his brother Frederick, daughter-in-law Paula Watkins, and great-grandson Hayden.

A Funeral Service will be held at 12 noon on Thursday, March 26, 2015, at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. Interment will take place at Washtenong Memorial Park in Ann Arbor. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 5-8 p.m.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Disabled American Veterans.

Hehr,-A-Jerree-webA. Jerree Hehr
of Chelsea, formerly Ann Arbor, Michigan

Age 89, passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2015, at the Chelsea Retirement Community Towsley Village.

She was born on June 4, 1925, in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Howard Mott and Eleanor (Anderson) Herbert.

She enjoyed golf, playing bridge, crafts, and her grandchildren. In 1946, Jerree became one of the first women to graduate from Iowa State University with a business degree. On Aug. 8, 1953, she married Paul W. Hehr in Cleveland, Ohio. He preceded her in death in 2004.

Surviving are two children, Heidi (Richard) Klinske of Dexter and Daniel (Wendy) Hehr of Chicago, three grandchildren: Matthew, Christopher, and Kathleen, and two sisters-in-law, Holly Herbert of Des Moines, Iowa, and Joyce Herbert of Nebraska. She was also preceded in death by three brothers: Howard, Dick, and Frank, and an infant sister, Eleanor.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 25, 2015, from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Cathy Rafferty officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the UMRC Heritage Foundation. Visitation will be at the funeral home on Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

Beatrice A. Musolf
of Wausau, Wisconsin

Age 84, passed away on Monday, March 16, 2015, at St. Joseph Mercy Chelsea Hospital in Chelsea, Michigan.

She was born on May 17, 1930, in Chippewa Falls, WI, the daughter of William and Agnes (Meyer) Harck.

On Aug. 16, 1958, she married Gene E. Musolf in Chippewa Falls, who survives. Beatrice had a long career as a registered nurse, including working with the Head Start program in Wausau. She lived in Wisconsin all of her life and was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Wausau for 53 years. Her hobbies included sewing, knitting, and volunteering for the Girl Scouts, the Elks and the Friends of Rib Mountain State Park where she was a member of their board of directors.

In addition to her husband, surviving are her children: Karen (Richard) Musolf-Mortensen of Dexter, MI, Wayne (Micky) Musolf of Chula Vista, CA, Janet (David) Guyette of Santa Monica, CA, and Gail (Del) Hansen of St. Paul, MN, seven grandchildren: Brett and Marc Musolf, Alex and Christine Mortensen, Sam and Jake Guyette, and Evelyn Beatrice Hansen, and special niece Eloise (Randy) Anding. She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, James and Merlin.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial Contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church in Wausau or the Friends of Rib Mountain State Park.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

dupuis-david-philip-webReverend David Philip Dupuis

Reverend David Philip Dupuis entered eternal life on March 13, 2015 at the age of 87.

He was born Sept. 9, 1927 in Jackson, Michigan to Harry and Adah (Mullinix) Dupuis. He received a BA from Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit. He also attended the North American College in Rome and received his STL from the Gregorian College in Rome. He was ordained to the priesthood on Dec. 8, 1951 at Our Lady of Humility at the North American College by the Most Reverend Martin O’ Conner.

After his ordination, Father Dupuis served as Associate Pastor for the parishes of St. Michael in Flint, St. Mary in Mt. Morris and St. Mary in Flint. He became the Acting Pastor for St. Mary in Flint in 1960. In 1961, he was appointed Pastor for St. Joseph Parish in Gaines and St. Augustine Parish in Deerfield. In 1971, he also became Pastor for St. Mary Parish in Chelsea. He retired to Senior Priest Status in 1998. He became the Sacramental Minister for Holy Redeemer Parish in Vanderbilt on Aug. 1, 1999 and served there lovingly and faithfully until his death.

Father Dupuis is survived by his sister, Harriet (Ted) Bachelder; nieces and nephews, Teresa Irelan, Theodore (Penny) Bachelder, Kristen Smrekar, David (Livia) Bachelder, Deborah (Kenneth) Avery, Catherine (Flip) LeFere, Denise (Larry) Rider, Philip (Sandra) Dupuis, Paulette (Mark) Burgess and Angela (Jeffrey) Henry; many great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, John Anthony and Paul Daniel Dupuis and great niece, Natalie LeFere.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 16, 2015 from 4- 8 p.m. with a vigil service at 6 p.m. at Holy Redeemer Church in Vanderbilt. Visitation will continue on Tuesday, March 17, at 9 a.m. at St. Mary Cathedral in Gaylord until the Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. with the Most Reverend Steven J. Raica presiding.

Visitation in Chelsea will take place on Wednesday, March 18, 2015 at St. Mary Catholic Church (14200 Old US 12) from 4-8 p.m. with a Rosary at 7:30 p.m. and Thursday from 10 a.m. until the hour of Mass. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11 a.m. with the Most Reverend Earl Boyea presiding. Burial will follow at Mt Olivet Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Covenant House, Food for the Poor or to your local animal shelter, through the Nelson Funeral Home, PO Box 1548, Gaylord MI 49734.

Arrangements by Nelson Funeral Home in Gaylord and Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him;
may he and all the souls of the faithful departed,
through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Amen.

Elizabeth Swift Groves

Age 90, passed away on Feb. 11, 2015, at the Kresge Rehabilitation Center at Chelsea Retirement Community in Chelsea, Michigan.

Born in Ann Arbor to Byron W. and Inez (Selesky) Swift, she grew up in the Burns Park area. She attended the University of Michigan School of Business and graduated in 1945 with a BBA degree. After graduation she worked at the School of Business.

In 1952, she married William A. Groves and had two daughters. When the daughters became independent, she returned to work, and retired from the University of Michigan School of Nursing where she had been Assistant to the Dean.

Betty was active in a number of volunteer organizations throughout her life, including the Margaret Waterman Alumnae Group and the Ann Arbor Figure Skating Club, where she was Treasurer while her daughters were active in the club. After leaving Ann Arbor and moving to Chelsea, Michigan, she became active in the Adult Learners Institute where she served as a Board Member for several years.

Loving travel, Betty visited numerous countries on five continents, as well as 49 states. Her interest in reading, history and world affairs contributed to the enjoyment of these trips.

She is survived by her husband, Bill; daughter Ann Groves; daughter Carol Freeman; son-in-law Michael Freeman; and grandson Jeffery Freeman. Her brother, Douglas Swift also survives her as well as her sister-in-law, Jane Swift and five nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, April 18, 2015, at 1:30 p.m. in the Maples Room at the Silver Maples Retirement Community in Chelsea.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the charity of your choice.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral home, Chelsea.

KochHaroldHarold W. “Hal” Koch
Formerly of Iowa City, IA, and Dexter, MI.

Age 92, died Thursday, March 5, 2015, at New Aldaya Lifescapes in Cedar Falls, Iowa.

Harold William Koch was born May 19, 1922, in Lima Township, Washtenaw County, Michigan, the son of Albert and Mabel (Coe) Koch. He graduated from Dexter, Michigan high school in 1939, and attended Michigan Normal College (now Eastern Michigan University) for 3 years before being called to active service in the United States Army during WWII. He served his country for nearly two years in Europe and in the Battle of the Bulge.

Returning to Michigan, he married Margaret Schoenberg on June 24, 1943 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Capac, Michigan. The couple raised their family in Dexter, MI where Hal worked in the Lyndon Color Labs as a photographer and supervisor of the color printing department for over 39 years before his retirement. Hal and Margaret moved to Iowa in 1986 to be nearer to family, to California in 1999, and back to Iowa in 2001, residing in Iowa City. Hal enjoyed photography, building miniature furniture and model cars.

His family includes his daughter and her husband, Kathy Mundt and Jerry of Cedar Falls, IA; son and his wife, Keith Koch and Sue of Oxnard, CA; daughter-in-law, Cathy Divine-Koch of Iowa City; six grandchildren, Ben Koch and his wife, Paula of The Colony, TX, Jeff Koch of Portland, OR, Cory Mundt of Austin, TX, Anthony Casello-Koch of Atascadero, CA, Sharon Hembree of Ventura, CA, and Anna Ellenberger of Ames, IA; great-grandchildren, Vincent Koch, Morena Koch, and Maya Koch; and a brother-in-law, Donald (Cheryl) Schoenberg. Hal was preceded in death by his wife of over 62 years, Margaret; son, Karl Divine-Koch; sister, Dorothea, and brother, Walter.

Graveside services will be held Saturday, March 14, 10:30 a.m. at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Cedar Valley Hospice or New Aldaya Lifescapes. Online condolences may be sent for his family through the web here.

Local arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

KrummBettyBetty J. Krumm

Born July 27, 1928 in Detroit, Michigan. Died March 5, 2015 in Mt. Clemens, Michigan at the age of 86.

Her husband, Robert, preceded her in death Oct. 21, 1996. She was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses for over 75 years. She was a resident of Pleasant Lake and Grass Lake, Mich. for over 45 years before moving to Mt. Clemens with her daughter.

She is survived by her children, Kathryn A. (Barak) Wyne of Mt. Clemens, Jay B. (Patricia) Krumm and Jerry L. (Rhonda) Krumm, both of Chelsea; four grandchildren, Nathan, Jordann, Jenay, and Ian; and two great-grandchildren, Ellie and Emry. She has one sister, Joan (Donald) Powers in Lauderhill, FL, and one nephew, Larry Powers in Margate, FL.

There will be a private burial in Vermont Cemetery in Chelsea.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Maureen Kay Griffin
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 65, passed away on March 6, 2015. She was born on March 15, 1949, in Detroit, MI, the daughter of Richard C. and Sarah (Maloney) Griffin.

She had lived in the area since 2002, coming from Las Vegas, and was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea. She enjoyed spending time with her nieces and nephews, family vacations in Port Austin, MI, playing poker, and Red Wings hockey.

Surviving are her siblings: Nancy Ward of Chelsea, Susan Roney of Lowell, Cathy (Mark) Slezak of Commerce Twp., MI, Patty Jo (Walt) Herndon of Chelsea, Vincent (Sherril) Griffin of Redford, Dennis Griffin of Macomb, Sean (Dawn) Griffin of Redford, Michael (Kristi) Griffin of Redford, brother-in-law Brian Sullivan of Chelsea, and sister-in-law Laura Griffin of Ferndale, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Linda Miceli and Ellen Sullivan, brother Richard Griffin, and nephew Jason Griffin.

Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 10, 2015, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea on Monday from 2-8 p.m. with Rosary at 7:30 p.m., and at the church on Tuesday from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Private interment will take place at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Southfield.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to The Michigan Donor Family Council, 250 Helen St., Trenton, MI 48183.

SocksAnneAnne H. Socks
Dexter, MI

Age 96, passed away on March 4, 2015, at home after a lengthy illness surrounded by family.

She was born on Nov. 11, 1918 (Armistice Day) in Detroit, MI to Michael and Anna (Najalowach) Holowach. They were Ukrainian immigrants (1913) who owned and operated a neighborhood grocery store. When she was a young child her family purchased a farm in Clinton, MI (1927). She graduated in 1937 from Clinton High School.

She married Leonard Socks Oct. 1, 1938, in Clinton, MI. They were married for 63 years and were long time Dexter, MI residents and members of the Dexter United Methodist Church.

She is survived by three sons; James (Evelyn), Jerry (Joyce) both of Dexter and Donald (Tammy) Socks of Chelsea; seven grandchildren Christine Sherman of Tecumseh, MI, Michael (Susan) Socks of Cabot, VT, Matthew Socks of Burlington, VT, Kelly (Gary) Colon of Naples, FL, Jennifer (David) Lambers of Otsego, MI, Melissa (Robert) Hambrock of Suamico, WI, Mark Socks of Mason, MI; and a godson Hal Rudnianin; eight great grandchildren, Ethan and Jonah Socks, Genevieve and Alexander Sherman, Derek and Kara Colon, Katie and Allison Lambers.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Leonard (2002), beloved daughter Darlene Hoey, brother Matthew (Eleanor) Holowach and an infant sister; and a special cousin John (Anna) Brelish.

Anne worked for Lyndon Color Labs of Dexter for several years and enjoyed tole painting, ceramics, cooking and her vast collection of cookbooks.

In accordance with her wishes a private family service and interment were held at Riverside Cemetery in Clinton, MI.

Memorial donations may be made to Dexter United Methodist Church, 7643 Huron River Dr., Dexter, MI 48130; Arbor Hospice, 2366 Oak Valley Dr., Ann Arbor, MI 48103; or the charity of your choice.

Gladstone-Bob-webRobert R. Gladstone
Of Stockbridge, MI

Age 86, passed away Wednesday, March 04, 2015 at the Chelsea Retirement Community.

He was born on Dec. 5, 1928 in Lansing Twp., MI the son of Roy and Marion Holmes Gladstone.

He had lived in the Ingham Co. area most of his life, retiring in 1979 from Central Fiber as Plant Manager after almost 25 years. He attended Kalamazoo College, set the clock at the Chelsea Tower, flew Cessna 172’s, and was a member of Inverness Country Club for 25 years. He was also a founding member of Smith’s Airport, now known as Howlett Airport. He was a Veteran of the United States Army, serving from 1950-1952, and was a member of the American Legion Mackinder-Glenn 510 Post of Stockbridge.

On Sept. 13, 1953 he married Rowena Lou Lentz, and she preceded him in death on Dec. 22, 1998. Surviving are four children: Margene Gladstone of Stockbridge, Philip (Karen) Gladstone of Layton, UT, Mark (Mariann) Gladstone of Spring Arbor, and Jeff (Lynda) Gladstone of Chelsea; six grandchildren, one brother Joe (Vicki) Gladstone of Gregory, one brother-in-law Garth Richard of Three Rivers, MI, and one sister-in-law Joyce Raychuck of Florida. He was preceded in death by one sister, Janet Richard, and three half siblings: Donna Williams, Faye Roberts, and Floyd Leach.

Funeral Services will be Saturday, March 7, 2015 at 1 p.m. from the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the American Legion Mackinder-Glenn 510 Post, Stockbridge.

The family will receive friends at the Funeral Home on Friday from 6-8 p.m.

DonovanDavidDavid A. Donovan
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 83, died Sunday, March 1, 2015 at his home at Silver Maples of Chelsea. He was born May 5, 1931 in Highland, Michigan, the son of Alvin and Martha (Temperley) Donovan.

David had lived in Chelsea since 1972. He was a member of the Detroit Society of Engineers. David was a former Kiwanis club member, serving as President of the Chelsea Kiwanis club from 1988-89. He retired from Ford Motor Company as a manufacturing research engineer.

He is survived by a son, Bruce (Kathy) Donovan of Brighton; two daughters, Kathleen (Donald) Canham of Pinckney, Sharon Donovan of Ann Arbor; a grandson, Kelly Donovan; and nephew and niece, David and Linda von Walthausen. He was preceded in death by his sister and brother-in-law, Jill and Rudolph von Walthausen.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 7, 11 a.m. at Silver Maples, Chelsea, with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the Salvation Army.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

BowenTony02aMichael Anthony “Tony” Bowen
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 77, died peacefully Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015 after a long brave battle. He died in his home surrounded by his family and with his pastor at his side. He was born Aug. 10, 1937 in Belmont, North Carolina, the son of George Alexander and Katie Frances (Featherstone) Bowen.

Tony grew up in Belmont, NC, attended college in Ft Wayne, IN, and has lived in Chelsea since 1960. Tony loved his family. He loved golfing, fishing, and canoeing. His hobby was carving Santa Clauses. Tony was a member of St. Paul United Church of Christ. He retired from Chrysler Corporation as an Engineering Manager. Tony was a long-time member of the Inverness Country Club, President of St. Paul United Church of Christ for many years, long-time member of JC’s, and past President of the Chelsea Recreation Department.

Tony married Shirley Krichbaum in Servia, Indiana, 58 years ago this past December, and she survives. Other survivors include three sons, Steve (Michelle) in Charlevoix, Mike (Sue) and Doug (Risa) in Chelsea; one daughter, Cyndi Bowen of Chelsea; 9 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Dawn Cobb, Joanne Brown; grandson Alex Kussurelis; and great-granddaughter Natalie Bush.

Funeral services will be held Monday, March 2, 11 a.m. at St. Paul United Church of Christ, Chelsea, with Pastor Jim Coyl officiating. Burial will follow at North Lake Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel on Sunday, March 1, 2-6 p.m. and 10-11 a.m. at the church on Monday.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul United Church of Christ or the American Cancer Society.

Earlacher_MaryJo1Mary Jo Erlacher
Chelsea, MI, formerly of Dexter

Born March 6, 1929 in Adrian, Michigan the daughter of John and Viola (Grubbs) Schmidt, she died at age 85 on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2015 at the Chelsea Retirement Community.

Mary Jo was a smart, creative woman, a veracious reader, an artist, writer, and lover of animals and nature. She never wavered in her efforts to make our world a better place. A loving, kind person, she always championed the underdog, teaching us that everyone brought something special to the table.

Busy raising 4 children, she worked as a Sunday school teacher, room parent, Girl Scout leader, and crossing guard. Later she served our high school, Robichaud, first as the library clerk, then secretary to the principal, and lastly secretary to the district’s special education department in the Westwood school district in Dearborn Heights.

Upon retirement in 1992, she moved to Dexter, MI to be close to her youngest grandchild, Zac. With her other children in Utah and Colorado, she became a lover of the red rock country and mountains in the west. Despite the distances that spread out her family, she found a way to bring us together every summer. Family vacations were very important to her and her family. She loved us so much and let us know every day by her actions and words. Her exit on Valentine’s Day is the perfect setting for all who she wanted us to remember. She will be missed enormously by her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. What she valued will live on through all of us.

Survivors include two sons, John (Marilyn Likins) Erlacher of Utah, Michael (Debbie) Erlacher of Lincoln Park; two daughters, Kathy (Marc) Morhous of Dexter, Mary (Jack) Phelps of Colorado; 6 grandchildren, Michael (Lauren) Erlacher, Nicole (Will) James, Michelle (Dave) Porter, Zachary Morhous, Jeffery (Ronda) Kulas, Kelly Kulas; and 6 great-grandchildren, Rowan Erlacher; Tiffany, Taylor, Kalista, and Kahla Kulas, and Trever Chapa. She was preceded in death by her husband, George William Erlacher; and two sisters, Helen Garthwait and Marilyn Alexander.

A memorial service will be held Friday, Feb.20, 1 p.m. at Chelsea Retirement Community Towsley Chapel, Chelsea, with Rev. Dr. Ray Maurer officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association or the Huron Valley Humane Society.

Knutson,-Donald-photoDonald Charles Knutson
of Brooklyn, Michigan

Age 77, passed away on Friday, Feb. 13, 2015, at the Chelsea Retirement Community. He was born on Aug. 12, 1937, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the son of Donald C. Knutson and Harriet K. (Thomas) Ledwein.

Don spent most of his life as a used car manager. He loved his old cars, and he also enjoyed watching NASCAR races, hunting, and occasional trips to the casino. He enjoyed having all of his children around him – whenever we left his house he would always say, watch out for the Bear! Don will be remembered for his great sense of humor. Our Big Bear is now watching over all of us!

Surviving are his children: Becky (Pat) Norkey, Barb (Dan) Minzey, Mary Jo Wright, Karen (Tom) Hampel, and Donnie (Andee) Knutson, ten grandchildren, one great-granddaughter, and his beloved dog Fella. He is also survived by his brother Jim (Janet) Knutson, sister Barb Wiegand, three step-brothers, and one step-sister.

He was preceded in death by his wife Margaret Mary (Murphy), daughter Joel Knutson, father Donald Knutson, mother Harriet Ledwein, step-father Frank Ledwein, and brother Tommy Knutson.

No services are planned at this time. Memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea Retirement Community-Kresge Rehabilitation Center.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Hungerford,-Thomas-webThomas Dale Hungerford
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 62 passed away at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital on Feb. 13, 2015.

He was born the son of Harry H. and Helen (Smith) Hungerford on Sept. 15, 1952 in St. Johns, Michigan.

On Sept. 8, 1978 he married Susan Marie Brady and she survives.

Tom enjoyed bowling, basketball, fishing and camping. He loved spending time with all his grandchildren. He was very active in the St. Joseph Parish where he was a Knight of Columbus and taught Catechism.

In addition to his wife he is survived by his children Jessica (Todd) Moilanen of Ann Arbor, Thomas (Sara) Hungerford II of Belleville, Dan (Kelly) Hungerford of Grand Rapids, Liz (Robert) Irwin of TX, and Henry H. Hungerford, four grandchildren with one on the way. Also surviving are his siblings, Mary Joe (Luke) Webber of Fowler, Don (Adele) Hungerford of AL, Jan Hungerford of Holt, and sister-in-law Helen Hungerford of Fowler. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Ken Hungerford.

Mass of Christian Burial will be prayed at the St. Joseph Country Church, 6805 Mast Road, Dexter with Fr. Brendan J. Walsh presiding on Tuesday 11 a.m. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Monday from 3-8 p.m. with a Scripture Service at 7 p.m.

Expressions of Sympathy may be made to Prader-Willi Syndrome Association (PWSA) or the Dexter Knights of Columbus #2959.

HofmeisterMarthaMartha J. Hofmeister
Chelsea, MI

Martha J. Hofmeister, born to Maurice and Jessie Shanklin on Oct. 14, 1933, went peacefully home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Friday, Feb. 13, 2015 at age 81.

Martha was a faithful member of Faith Baptist Church until her health declined over the past two years. She loved taking care of people and routinely filled every need that she could. She tutored voluntarily in a couple different schools giving children some much needed individual help and offering some extra love to their lives. She loved to crochet and provided wedding and baby gifts to many people. She loved her Lord, her family, and her church family very much and will be sorely missed by so many.

On Aug. 31, 1958, she married Everett “Wayne” Hofmeister, and he survives. Other survivors include a son, Steve Hofmeister; daughters, Janice Hofmeister, Ann (James) Hess; two grandsons, Mitchell and Roman Hofmeister; one great-granddaughter, Aubrey; one expected great-grandson; nieces Terry (Dave) Davis, and Pat (Mike) Ellington, great-nieces, Katrina Davis and Christeena Divine; great nephew, Michael Lacy; and great great niece Carman (Travis) Roach as well as many, many cousins and “honorary children” that called her Mom or Grandma.

She was greeted in Heaven by her parents, Maurice and Jessie Shanklin; sister and brother-in-law, Mary Ann and Richard Gullion; great niece, Jennifer Lacy; great nephew, Richard Duviver; many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins and beloved friends.

Memorial services will be held Thursday, Feb. 19, 11 a.m. at Faith Baptist Church, Chelsea, with Pastor Adam Summers officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Baptist Church, 4030 Kalmbach Road, Chelsea, MI 48118.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Bentley,-Gary-photoGary Dean Bentley
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 70, of Chelsea, Michigan, passed away on Friday, Feb. 13, 2015, surrounded by his family.

He was born on April 1, 1944 on Left Fork of Rockhouse Creek, Kentucky. He was the son of Ell and Easter (Case) Bentley, the sixth of seven children.

After high school graduation, he moved to Chelsea, Michigan, where he followed a girl home one day. Her name was Charlotte Harris. Four months later, on March 7, 1964, they were married. They raised three children – Jon (Denise) Bentley, Mark (Jessica) Bentley, and Sarah (Biff) Bunten, and have nine grandchildren: Tim, Courtney, Elizabeth, Caleb, Paige, Ethan, Richie, Ashleigh, and Hayley. All survive. In addition to his immediate family, Gary is survived by two brothers, Paul (Donna) Bentley of Farwell, MI and Harold (Jackie) Bentley of Rockhouse Creek, KY; two sisters, Lena (Ival) Coleman of Ashcamp, KY and Lucretia Hylton of Westland, MI, a sister-in-law Patty Bentley Coleman (Clifford) of Rockhouse Creek, KY, and brother-in-law Stephen F. Harris of North Port, FL, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Randall Bentley and Jimmie Bentley.

He retired from Chelsea Milling Company in 1999 after 30 years of service. He was a man who had many talents. In addition to being a master of the trades including plumbing, electricity, and construction, he could fix about anything. He loved being outside more than anywhere else, whether on his back porch in Florida, front porch on Left Fork, or backyard in Chelsea. He was an avid gardener, a love that he passed on to his children. He spent a lot of hours on his tractor, either in his garden or anywhere else he could find something to do with it.

He was a member of First Congregational Church of Chelsea where he held many leadership roles throughout the years such as trustee, deacon, and moderator. He served as a trustee on the Chelsea Village Council. He was a member of Chelsea Rod and Gun Club and Moose Lodge 1253. He spent years on the golf course as a member of Inverness Country Club. Most recently, his favorite pastime was watching his grandchildren perform in athletics, music, dance, and theater.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 16, 2015, at First Congregational Church of Chelsea. Burial will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive visitors at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Sunday from 12-8 p.m. and at the church on Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the First Congregational Church of Chelsea, in care of the Grossman Renovation Phase II Project.

Bovee_Christophera1Christopher “Chris” DeLoss Bovée
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Redford Township

Age 95, died Friday, Jan. 16, 2015 at Chelsea Retirement Community.

He was born May 1, 1919 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the son of Christopher DeLoss and Georgia (Gorrell) Bovee.

Christopher attended Redford High School. During WWII, he served in the Army as a mechanic and MP. He worked for the Detroit News/Free Press in printing and distribution. Christopher owned Silver Bell Ranch at Plymouth and Telegraph, and helped his mom at Fenrock Confectionary in Detroit. He owned Christy’s Service Center in Detroit from 1952-2003. Chris loved boating, motorcycles, golf and horses.

On April 9, 1948, he married Nancy Joan Anderson in Detroit, and she preceded him in death on May 18, 1981. Survivors include a daughter, Laura (Les) Jackson of Brooklyn, MI; a son, Bruce (Debi) Bovee of Livonia; four grandchildren, Danielle (Andy) Domzalski, Katelin Bovee, Amy (Jeff) Miller, Christina (Marty) Beck; and four great-grandchildren, Ava, Brielle, Alana, and Brayden. He was preceded in death by a brother, Stewart, and a half-brother, Howard.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Feb. 21, 11 a.m. at Chelsea Retirement Community with Rev. Cathy Rafferty officiating. Burial will be at Evergreen Cemetery in Detroit. Memorial contributions may be made to Arbor Hospice or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

PankowMcClain,Dawn1Dawn Kelly Pankow-McClain
Jackson, Michigan

Age 50, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, Feb. 7, 2015 in Jackson, Michigan.

She was born May 14, 1964 in Northville, Michigan, the daughter of Sheila Ruth Joseph and Robert Pankow.

Dawn graduated from Pioneer High School in 1982. She formerly worked at the pharmacy at Meijer in Jackson. Dawn loved crafts, and was fortunate enough to be able to work at JoAnn’s Fabrics in Jackson. She loved her parrots and her dogs that she referred to as her “4-legged grandchildren.”

Survivors include her mother; a son, Sean (Chelsea) McClain of Jackson; two daughters, Lauren (Michael) Patterson of Jackson, Lindsey McClain of Jackson; their father, Brian McClain; a sister, Diane (James) O’Dell of Northville; four grandchildren, Sebastian, Malachi, Lennon, and Nolan. She was preceded in death by her father.

A memorial service will be held Monday, Feb. 16, 2015, 4 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, Michigan with Justin Powell officiating. The family will receive friends Monday from 3-4 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Cascades Humane Society.

McNamara,-Opal-web2Opal M. McNamara
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 84, passed away on Monday, Feb. 9, 2015, at Emeritus at Brighton.

She was born on May 23, 1930, in Chelsea, MI, the daughter of Hurshel B. and Gertrude O’Dell.On Feb. 15, 1947, she married Thomas K. McNamara, and he preceded her in death on April 5, 2012. She had lived in the area all of her life and had worked as a custodian for the Chelsea School District. Opal was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea.

She enjoyed being involved with the Brownies and Girl Scouts, and ran a daycare with her husband Tom and they were also foster parents. She also enjoyed bowling, being involved with T.O.P.S. (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly), camping, cooking, and especially the holidays and baking Christmas cookies.

Surviving are her daughters, Patricia (Gregg) Keller of Whitmore Lake and Sandra Truax of Manitou Beach; 7 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren; her sisters, Janet Fletcher of Brighton and Geneva (Jim) Walkow of Manchester, sister-in-law Jackie O’Dell of Florida, and Tom’s siblings: Marian, Anna, Joan, Elise, John (Joy), Susan, and Dorothy, along with many cousins. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her daughter Linda Lietz and her brothers, Carl O’Dell and Howard O’Dell.

Funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2015, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. The family will receive friends at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Disabled American Veterans (DAV). Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

SmithGeorge1aGeorge H.J. Smith
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Age 96, died Saturday, Feb. 7, 2015 at his home.

He was born March 7, 1918 in Menominee, Michigan, the son of Frank and Edna (McDonald) Smith.

George resided in Ann Arbor (Scio Township). He was a home building contractor, a self-employed accountant, and owned Smith Village Insurance in Dexter before retiring. He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, and a former Scio Township Clerk. George was a life-time member and active supporter of the Dexter Knights of Columbus, and managed and assisted in building the K of C Hall on Dexter-Chelsea Road.

On June 19, 1943, he married Ella May Alber in Saline, Michigan, and she preceded him in death on June 13, 2009. Survivors include 7 sons, Joseph (Margaret) Smith of Chelsea, H. Vernon (Lynn) Smith of Saline, Alfred (Mary Lee) Smith of Ann Arbor, Daniel Smith of Ann Arbor, Patrick (Deneen) Smith of Ann Arbor, Russell (Mary Ann) Smith of Pinckney, James (Mona) Smith of Beaux Bridge, Louisiana; 3 daughters, Ella May Ann (William) Tarrier of Ann Arbor, Joanne (William Hill) Rogucki, of Green Valley, AZ, and Betty (Chuck) Raab of Ann Arbor; 18 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren. George was preceded in death by a grandson, Jeff Smith.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, Feb. 14, 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea, Michigan. The family will receive friends Friday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, with a vigil service at 7:30 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church.

Arnold,-Georgia-webGeorgia Mae Arnold
of Pinckney, Michigan

Age 70, passed away Saturday, Feb. 7, 2015 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital.

She was born June 13, 1944 in Detroit, MI the daughter of James and Gertrude (Thorne) Alder. She had lived in the Pinckney area since 1978 coming from Garden City. She enjoyed cooking, her grandchildren, and conversation on her front porch.

On June 15, 1963 she married James R. Arnold in Detroit, and he preceded her in death on Feb. 15, 2009.Surviving are two daughters, Martha Ann (Ron) Ehmann of South Carolina, and Leslie (Jerry) Gould of Stockbridge; seven grandchildren, and one great-grandchild; also her twin brother, George Alder, and two sisters Jennie Stackable and Jerri (Bo) Bollotte.

A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2015 at noon from the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea where friends may call from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Faith Baptist Church of Chelsea.

Dora E. Homestead
of Chelsea, MI

Age 99, passed away Friday, Feb. 6, 2015 at Silver Maples of Chelsea.

She was born May 12, 1915 in Passaic, New Jersey the daughter of Albert and Anna (Brower) Klapmust. She had lived at Silver Maples for the past 17 years coming from New Jersey. She was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Ann Arbor. She enjoyed crocheting and reading.

On May 18, 1937 she married Floyd Homestead and he preceded her in death in February of 2004. Surviving are three children: June (Jimmie) Wright , Thomas (Elaine) Homestead, and Susan (George) teVelde; also eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; one brother, Matthew Klapmust, one sister, Agnes Cairnes, and one sister-in-law Phyllis Klapmust. She was also preceded in death by two brothers, Jacob and Albert Klapmust, and two sisters, Edna deHaas and Marion McConnaughey.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2015 at Silver Maples with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Faith in Action or the Silver Maples Employee Scholarship Fund.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Lyjak,-Robert-webRobert F. Lyjak
Age 85 of Ann Arbor, Michigan, passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2015, at the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor.

He was born Oct. 1, 1929, in Hamtramck, MI, the son of Roman and Salome Lyjak. He earned a B.S. in mathematics from Wayne State University (1951), an M.A. (1953), and a Ph.D. (1962) from U-M. He joined the University of Michigan as an instructor in mathematics in 1953. He retired from the University in 1986 and was named Professor Emeritus of Mathematics and Computer and Information Sciences. In addition to inspiring generations of math and computer science students, he participated in research projects in the fields of satellite tracking, air traffic control, computer image processing and its application to robotics.

In 1960, he became interested in applying principles of mathematics and physics to aerobatic flying and learned to fly. He began flying airshows professionally and in 1964 purchased a 1930 Waco Taperwing with the strength and power needed to translate his ideas into reality. Developing maneuvers such as the “Centrifuge” he thrilled millions of spectators during hundreds of airshow performances across the United States and Canada before his retirement from flying in 1999. His role in the 1970 Public Broadcasting documentary ‘Affair In The Air’ is often cited by pilots as articulating their love of flying and the special bond often felt within the aviation community.

He is survived by his children: David (Leslie) Lyjak of Marietta, Georgia, Jeff (Janis) Lyjak of Ann Arbor, and Chris Lyjak of Saline, and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lorraine E. Lyjak, and his siblings: Wanda Paruch, Chester Lyjak, Ted Lyjak, and Emily Christina.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in honor of Lorraine.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Arthur Howard Clemes Jr.
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 80, passed away at his home on Monday, Feb. 2, 2015.

He was born on March 23, 1934, in Detroit, MI, the son of Arthur H. Sr. and Viola Mae (Mitchell) Clemes. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving from 1956 to 1958.

Arthur loved to spend time outdoors, especially hunting, fishing, and playing golf, and he also enjoyed playing the Lotto. He was a member of the Zal Gaz Grotto, the Masonic Lodge of Chelsea (Olive Lodge), the American Legion, and Inverness Country Club.

He is survived by his wife Verna, his children: Edward Clemes of Chelsea, Allison Clemes of Chelsea, and Lynn (Bill) Maitland of Dansville, and his cousin, Jerry Makielski. He was preceded in death by his brother, Lance Clemes.

At Arthur’s request, no services will be held. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the family.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

van-der-Schalie,-Annette-webAnnette van der Schalie

Died February 3, 2015, at the Chelsea Retirement Community in Chelsea, Michigan, at the age of 102.

Annette was born on March 7, 1912, in Cooksville, Illinois, the daughter of Gustav Rudolphi and Fanny Brooks Rudolphi.

She lived in Illinois and Minnesota with her parents and two sisters, Mary Ellen and Aline (both deceased), before settling in Detroit, where her father was a physician for the Veterans Administration.

Annette attended the University of Michigan, earning Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees with a special interest in botany. After graduation in 1934, she taught high school science and Latin in Illinois. She later worked for the US Treasury Department in northern Michigan. But it was at the U of M where she met and married Henry van der Schalie in 1936.

The couple settled in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where Henry was a professor of zoology and Curator of Mollusks at the University of Michigan. She became a life-long friend to many of his colleagues and students over the years and a surrogate mother to a number of his international students. Henry’s work took him to many countries in the world including Egypt, where Annette and the family accompanied him in 1952, staying for a year. While her children were young, Annette worked part-time as an administrative secretary at the Ecumenical Campus Center for foreign students in Ann Arbor and later as a research assistant at the Museum of Zoology. The couple remained in Ann Arbor until retiring to a country home near Manchester, Michigan, in 1976.

After Henry died in 1986, Annette continued to live in Manchester, pursuing her hobbies of gardening, swimming, and volunteering as a docent at the University of Michigan’s Matthaei Botanical Gardens. She had a lifelong interest in botany, particularly wild flowers and native plants and algae. Annette will be remembered for her ready smile, cheerful manner, love of cooking, passion for travel, and sense of adventure. Evidence of the latter was her scuba-diving trip to the Caribbean at the age of 89.

She is survived by her four sons: Arnold (Julie) of Huntsville, AL, Eric (Franci) of Manchester, MI, Robert (Julie) of San Diego, CA, and William (Barbara) of Point of Rocks, MD, six grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

A time and place of a celebration of her life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the University of Michigan Biological Station.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

SmithVirginiaVirginia Margaret Smith
Chelsea, MI

Age 94, died Saturday, Jan. 31, 2015 at Whitehall in Ann Arbor.

She was born July 4, 1920 in Milan, Michigan, the daughter of James and Edna (Boldt) Taylor.

Virginia loved bingo and planting flowers. The focus of her life was her family. She helped raise her grandchildren while her daughters worked.

On May 17, 1940, she married Harry L. Smith, and he preceded her in death on Dec. 8, 2002. Survivors include 2 daughters, Kathy (Elliezer) Freyre of Chelsea, Wendy Gerstler of Chelsea; two sons-in-law, Bill Redfern of Dundee, Daniel Gerstler of Chelsea; 5 grandchildren, Chad (Kristie) Freyre, Nicole (Kevin) Hirzel, Adam (Cara) Gerstler, Scott Redfern, and Steve (Laurie) Redfern; 7 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by two daughters, Sharon Redfern, Dianne Smith, and her brother, Elwood Taylor.

A memorial service will be held Friday, Feb. 6, 2 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Rev. Joe Jeffreys officiating. The family will receive friends from noon until the service. Burial will be at Maple Grove Cemetery in Dundee in the spring.

Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.

Omer,-Harold-James-webHarold James Omer
of Jackson, formerly Grass Lake, Michigan

Age 68, passed away on Friday, Jan. 30, 2015, at the John George Home in Jackson.

He was born on April 29, 1946, in Detroit, MI, the son of Harold and Mary (Stewart) Omer. On Nov. 17, 1966, he married Mary K. Schlaff in Ann Arbor, and she preceded him in death on Oct. 13, 2012.

He enjoyed going to the casinos, especially Motor City Casino, and playing Texas Hold’em. He also enjoyed horse racing and the WWF. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and loved being with all his grandkids.

He is survived by his children: Harold J. Omer Jr. of Dexter, Debbie (Joe) Shreves of Grass Lake, Dennis (Dena) Omer of Leslie, and Cooter Omer of Unadilla; his grandchildren: Tiffany, Jordan, Trevor, Dawson, Olivia, Addison, and great-grandson Drake; and his sister Barb Kacharski. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Sharon and Debbie.

A Gathering of Friends and Family will take place at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Tuesday, Feb. 3, from 2-6 p.m. Private burial will take place at St. Joseph Cemetery in Dexter at a later date.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the John George Home in Jackson.

Denton_Patricia_croppedPatricia “Patty” June Denton
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Age 82, died Thursday, Jan. 29, 2015 at the Residence of Arbor Hospice.

She was born June 27, 1932 in Jackson, MI, the daughter of Paul F. and Florence G. (Boyd) Denton.

Patty moved to Dexter with her family in 1940. While going to school there she participated in sports (she loved basketball) and graduated in 1950.Then in later years she lived in Chelsea and Ann Arbor.

Patty worked for Key Bank, Ann Arbor Commerce, and Michigan Visiting Nurses Association. She attended Chelsea Christian Fellowship when she was young, and attended Grace Bible Church in Ann Arbor for many years.

Patricia is survived by a sister, Werdna “Polly” Basler and a brother; Paul G. Denton, both of Ann Arbor; and several nieces and nephews in the area, Charlie, Paula, Laura and Tommy Denton, Randy and Jimmy Scherdt, and Judy Pherson.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, Feb. 3, 1 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Rev. Tyson Lemke officiating. The family will receive friends Monday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Burial will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea.

Hachey-obit-photoAlice Marie Hachey
Manchester, MI

Age 71, passed away Thursday, Jan. 29, 2015 at her home with her husband at her side.

She was born Aug. 1, 1943 in Lakeview, Michigan, the daughter of John Russell & Margaret Mae (Foss) Culp.

Alice graduated from Manchester High School in 1961. She worked for Roberts Precision Products for 22 years as shipping clerk, then Domino Farms where she retired in 2009. Alice attended Manchester United Methodist Church, where she took part in the shawl ministry. She was an avid movie goer, and was the popcorn queen of the movies. Alice was dearly loved by her family and friends, who called her whenever they needed help, and she made sure to always be there.

On Feb. 24, 1990, she married Louis Hachey in Chelsea, and he survives. Other survivors include a son, Richard (Janice) Winnick of Pleasant Lake, Manchester; a daughter, Margo Sable of Phoenix, AZ; two step-children, Rebecca (Mike) Trester of Chelsea, Roland Hachey of Traverse City; many grandchildren, including Nicole Keaton, Kylie Yenkel, Carson Yenkel, Devyn Trester, Mckenzie Trester, Zachary Trester, Amie (Jeff) Branch, Christopher (Cary) Hatch; a brother, John (Nancy) Culp of Cadillac; four sisters, Charlene (Gordon) McNutt of FL, Linda Krashowetz of TX, Diana Sloat of Manchester, Sherri (George) Major of Marion; six great-grandchildren, Madison & Logan Keaton, Elizabeth and Brady Branch, James and Kennedy Hatch. She was preceded in death by a sister, Barbara Eisenhauer, and her parents.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Jan. 31, 1 p.m. at the Manchester United Methodist Church, with Tina Zimmerman officiating. The family will receive friends from noon until the time of the service. Burial will be at Manchester United Methodist Church Memorial Garden. Memorial contributions may be made to Manchester United Methodist Church.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

DuffeyJohnJohn Richard Duffey
Jackson, MI

Age 55, died unexpectedly of natural causes on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2015 at his home. He was born Jan. 30, 1959 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Gerald and Barbara (Hines) Duffey.

John graduated from Chelsea High School in 1978. He served in the Marines for 8 years. During his two tours of duty, he was based at Camp Pendleton, CA, Camp Lejeune, NC, and Okinawa, Japan. John worked at Malloy Lithographing in Ann Arbor, and was manager of School House Apartments in Chelsea. He belonged to American Legion Post 324 in Jackson, and the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Michigan Center. He had a compassionate heart and a great sense of humor. He loved animals and people, often taking in strays and giving to those in need. He had a strong faith and an optimistic outlook. John enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Survivors include his parents of Chelsea; his sisters, Debra Brown of Clarkston, Sheri (Mike) Cicirelli of Grass Lake, a niece, Christine (Mike) Lazarecki; a nephew, Michael Cicirelli; a great-niece, Kayden Lazarecki; and a special cousin, Kim Ilyasov.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Feb. 7, 12:30 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea. Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

BrownAgnesAgnes Brown
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 98, died Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2015 at Chelsea Retirement Community.

She was born Sept. 1, 1916 in Oakley, Michigan, the daughter of Alphonse and Agnes (Kuchar) Caudy.

Agnes worked for her dad at St. Johns Laundry. She was a member of the Sisters of the House of the Good Shepherd, first in Dearborn Heights, then at St. Gerard in Detroit. Agnes attended St. Joseph Church in St. Johns when she was young, and St. Mary in Chelsea. She moved to Chelsea Retirement Community 14 years ago, where she spent a lot of time helping people in the nursing center. Agnes was always caring for others. She was kind and loving to her entire family.

Survivors include a step-son, Kent (Pamela Byrnes) Brown of Chelsea; step-daughter Vicki (Dan) Webster of Pinckney; a brother, Joseph (Bernice) Caudy Sr.; two sisters, Therese (Bill) Van Wormer and Margaret (Peter) Klein. She was preceded in death by three husbands, Victor Stephens, Lyman Ringle, Victor Brown; her step-son, Bruce; three brothers, John, Alphonse, Vincent; and three sisters, Mary Fox, Anna Kusnier, and Rose Wilson.

A Funeral Mass will be held Thursday, Feb. 5, 10:30 a.m. at Chelsea Retirement Community, Chelsea, with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. A graveside service will be held in the spring at Mt. Rest Cemetery, St. Johns, Michigan. Memorial contributions may be made to United Methodist Retirement Community Foundation.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

Ewald,-Daniel-photoF. Daniel “Dan” Ewald
of Chelsea, Michigan

Dan Ewald, age 91, peacefully passed away at home, with his family, on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2015.

He was born on Nov. 17, 1923 in Detroit, MI and was raised in Chelsea, MI. The son of Fred and Martha (Schenk) Ewald. On Nov. 1, 1947, he married his love, Clara (Miller) Ewald.

Dan was a World War II Veteran, who served as a US Marine from 1942-1946. He flew on the VMTB-131 Torpedo Bombing Squadron, on an A4 Skyhawk Aircraft. He was also a gunner, on the SB2C Hell Diver. Dan retired after 33 years from Dana Corp, as a Field Service Engineer. He was known to bring two pieces of paper to a meeting – one with the problem and one with the solution. He had a passion for: Fishing, Hunting, Golfing, and all things relating to nature and the outdoors, which he loved to share with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Dan was also a great Artist and attended Saginaw Art School after returning home from the Service. He used his talent for many of his work presentations, community and family events. He was also an active member of the First United Methodist Church.

Dan leaves his children: Martha Salyer of Chelsea, Carol Ford of Chelsea, Jane Engel (Jay Wade) of Homer, Joseph (Beth) Ewald of Chelsea, and daughter-in-law Beverly Ewald of Chelsea; grandchildren: Jennifer Ewald, Rein Ewald, Sarah (Tim) VanSchoick, Gregory (Bethann) McKeighan, Brett (Mike Jones) Salyer, Ryan Ford, Leah Ford, Daniel (Kristy) Engel, Valerie (Scott) Steele, Lisa (Jacob) Eby, Linda (Jonathan) Streeter, Josie Ewald, and Preston Ewald; great-grandchildren: Reid Ewald, Max Daniel VanSchoick, Lucy Steele, Elliott Steele, Owen Eby, Gwen Eby, Parker Streeter and Odin Streeter.

He was preceded in death by his wife Clara (Miller) Ewald, son Theodore Ewald, son-in-law Robert Salyer, his parents Martha and Fred Ewald, sister Gene, and brothers Roland, Jim (Jasper), and Vern.

He will be missed and remembered, for the quality time he spent with his family. He was a selfless, kind, and honorable man.

A Memorial Service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 6, 2015, at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Rev. Tom Macaulay officiating. The family will receive family and friends at the funeral home on Thursday, Feb. 5, from 5-8 p.m. and Friday, Feb. 6, from 1-2 p.m. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Chelsea Athletics or Inverness Country Club.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

We love because He first loved us. ~John 4:19

Edick,-Janice-webJanice L. Edick
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 77, passed away at home on Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2015.

She was born on Nov. 22, 1937, in Manchester, MI, the daughter of Nathan and Inez (Whipple) Brown.

Janice was a graduate of Manchester High School and had lived in the area her entire life. She enjoyed bowling, sold Avon for close to 30 years, and loved her grandson. On June 21, 1957, she married Rubin Edick Jr., and he survives.

Also surviving are her children: Timothy Edick of Chelsea, Brian (Sheryll) Edick of Stockbridge, Kevin Edick of Jackson, and Mark (Wendy) Edick of Texas; her grandson, Aaron; and her siblings: James Brown, Preston Brown, Nathan Brown, Norma Tripp, and Audrey Cory, along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Evelina Cooper, and brother Edison Brown.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 26, 2015, at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea. Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery in Waterloo Twp. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 5-8 p.m., and on Monday from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Hospice Compassus in Farmington Hills.

PetschConnieConstance Pearl Petsch
Howell, MI

Age 68, went to be with our Lord on Monday, Jan. 19, 2015 at her home, after a courageous battle with cancer.

She was born Oct. 15, 1946 in Tecumseh, MI, the daughter of James and Jeanette (Trolz) Evilsizer.

Connie graduated from Manchester High School in 1964. She was a dentist assistant for Dr. Dixon in Clinton, MI then worked for Kate and Company Hair Salon and Shine Salon, both in Brighton. Connie liked to read, cook and garden. She enjoyed her family, friends and pets. Connie had a great smile and her laugh was contagious.

Survivors include a daughter, Carrie (Kevin) Alder of Brighton; a son, Jeff (Leslie) Petsch of Manchester; three grandchildren, Ashley (Jacob) Satterla , Evan Petsch, and Lance Cpl. Kurt Alder; her twin sister, Candace “Candie” Sussex of Adrian; and one niece, Jennifer Butler. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her stepfather, Richard Gilmore. She will be loved and missed by all who knew her.

A memorial service will be held Friday, Jan. 30, 2 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea. Burial will be at Maple Grove Cemetery in Grass Lake in the spring.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Center.

Zenz,-Billie-webBillie Jane Zenz
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 87, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2015, on her birthday.

She was surrounded by family and friends. Billie was born Jan. 20, 1928 at home in Detroit, MI, the daughter of William and Clara (Keahl) Lipski. As a youth she enjoyed singing and was active in her church youth fellowship. She graduated from Chadsey High School, Detroit, in 1945. On Feb. 7, 1947, she married her high school sweetheart, Clifford Zenz. They adored each other, enjoying 34 years of marriage. Their favorite song was “I’ll Be Seeing You.”

Billie was a 30-year resident of Dearborn, MI, where she loved to bowl and play pinochle with neighbors. In 1980, Billie and Clifford moved to Chelsea, MI. Billie continued to bowl and became a great aficionado of bridge, playing on five separate teams. She sang in the St. Paul Church choir and was an active member. Billie was a lifelong friend to Fred and Yvonne Kukla of Farmington, MI. Her irrepressible character, independent spirit, and zest for life will be missed by all who knew her.

Survivors include her children, Gary Zenz (Carole) of Chelsea and Laura Wall (Anthony) of Woodhaven, MI; grandchildren: Clifford Salvatore (Jana) of Cheseapke, VA, Clint Wall (Jodi) of Satellite Beach, FL, Larry Wall of Battle Creek, MI, Paul Zenz (Anna) of Jackson, Jeffrey Zenz and Sarah Zenz of Chelsea, MI; and great-grandchildren: Aiden and Hadley Salvatore, Logan and Tucker Wall, and Charlotte Zenz. Billie was preceded in death by her husband Clifford Zenz and sister Loretta (Lipski) Marano.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2015, at St. Paul United Church of Christ, Chelsea, with Rev. James Coyl officiating. The family will receive friends at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Following the service, a celebration of Billie’s life will be held at the Chelsea Comfort Inn Village Conference Center. Private burial will take place at Glen Eden Memorial Park in Livonia. Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Paul United Church of Christ, Chelsea.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Day,-George-Roger-photoRoger Day

Age 74, passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2015, at his home in The Villages, Florida.

He was born on March 27, 1940, in Ann Arbor, MI, to George and Sara (Goss) Day. Roger grew up in Willis, MI, and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1959, after which he attended Ferris State University. Roger joined the Michigan National Guard in 1962.

He married his beloved wife, Claudia (Miller) Day, of Ann Arbor, in 1963. Roger was accepted into the electrical workers apprenticeship program in 1963. He completed his apprenticeship in 1967 and worked as an electrician until retiring from Dunn Electric in 2003. He was a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 252 for over 50 years. He was a member of the American Legion Post 0117 – Manchester, MI, and of the Knights of Columbus Council 4354 – Manchester, MI. His hobbies included farming, traveling, and remodeling.

Claudia and Roger were married for 51 years. In 1976, they moved to a farm in Manchester, MI. With gratitude and fond memories, the extended family recalls the annual reunions held at the “Day” farm for 31 years, along with Roger’s warm embrace and the hay rides he pulled with one of his John Deere tractors. In 2010, Roger and Claudia retired from the farm to The Villages, FL.

Roger was preceded in death by his brothers, Joseph Day of FL and George Liam Day of Charlotte, MI, and his granddaughter Jennifer Young of Chelsea, MI. Roger is survived by his spouse Claudia; his daughters, Dawn (Tony) Iannelli of Chelsea, MI, and Tracy (David) Boruta of Lexington, MA; his sons, Roger (Laura) Day of Pinckney, MI, and William (Jae Yeon Jun) Day of Daejeon, South Korea; his sisters: Marie Laskey, Barbara Carpenter, June Hutting, and Rose (Richard) Recchia; and eleven grandchildren.

Funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 22, 2015, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, MI, with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea.

The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Wednesday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., with Vigil at 7:30 p.m., and at the church on Thursday from 10 a.m. until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Marion County, P.O. Box 4860, Ocala, FL 34478-4860, or to St. Mary Catholic Church, 14200 E. Old US-12, Chelsea, MI 48118.

Haselschwardt,-Howard-webHoward Ray Haselschwardt
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 93, died peacefully at home on Monday, Jan. 12, 2015.

Son of Reuben and Hazel (Comstock) Haselschwardt, he was born at the family farm in Sharon Township, June 17, 1921. Howard, a true renaissance man, was a farmer, natural engineer and craftsman, able to fix or build anything. His kids and grandkids have all benefited from spending time with him in the woods, sawing lumber at his sawmill, working in the workshop, hunting, fishing, having fun at North Lake or on the golf course.

Howard loved airplanes and flying. He left U of M Aeronautical Engineering School to enlist in the Air Force in WWII, but was called back to the farm for service. After selling the farm, he was a bus driver, co-founded H and H Distributing, and finished his career at O and W Distributors as a salesman.

Wherever he lived, there was a huge garden to feed extended family, friends, and neighbors. He took great pride in producing the best vegetables. Outgoing, fun-loving and equally hard-working, Howard loved to help others. He greeted everyone in town by name, with a firm handshake and a grin. Always community minded and a natural leader, Howard was Sharon Township Clerk, Farm Bureau Member, Chelsea Village Council Member, mayor of Chelsea, and served as both Chelsea School Board member and president.

Survivors include his wife, Agnes (Romsek) of 62 years, his children Jeanne (Darryl) Christensen, Liz Haselschwardt (Tim Reed), and Sarah Haselschwardt (Fred Vasquez), son-in-law Tom Bailey, daughter-in-law Sarah L. Haselschwardt, grandkids Molly Boyle, Joe Welton, John Bailey, Sally and Scott Haselschwardt, Ben and Max Reed, and Alex and Madeleine Vasquez and great-granddaughter Hazel. He was preceded in death by his beloved children, Jane Bailey and Howard J. Haselschwardt.

Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 16, 2015, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with Rev. Dr. William J. Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Thursday from 5-8 p.m.

George H. Vantine
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 73, passed away at home on Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015.

He was born on June 25, 1941, in Ithaca, New York. On April 4, 1977, he married Frances M. (Olschewske) in Waterloo, NY. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force, serving during Vietnam. George lived in the area for the past 10 years and was a member of the Dexter United Methodist Church. He enjoyed time on the computer, reading, seeing movies with his wife, and especially spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Frances Vantine; his children, Kirk (Aimee) Vantine of Dexter and Cheryl (Tom) Taber of New York; his grandchildren: Emma, Lindsey, and Brandon; his brother, Ronald Vantine of Texas; and his mother-in-law, Alberta Olschewske of New York. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2015, at the Dexter United Methodist Church with Dr. Matthew Hook officiating. The family will receive friends at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will take place at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Dexter United Methodist Church.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Rowe_VirginiaCroppedVirginia R. (Burg) Rowe
of Chelsea, MI

Age 93, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2015 at Jackson Countryside Care Center, with her children at her side. She was born December 2, 1921 in Chelsea, Michigan, the daughter of J. Vincent and Mary (Spirnagle) Burg.

Virginia graduated from Chelsea High School in 1939 and married her high school sweetheart Duane Rowe on April 14, 1941 at St. Mary Catholic Church.

She began her work career as a short order cook at her father’s pharmacy, Burg’s Corner Drug Store, as a teenager. In the early fifties, she started working at the Chelsea Spring Plant. She was a camp cook at the Mill Lake outdoor center in the mid-fifties and also managed the small diner in the Sylvan hotel. In the summer of 1958 and 59 she ran the Chelsea Dairy Queen which was owned by her father. In the sixties, she decided to learn to play the organ, and so impressed the store owner that he hired her to manage the Nalli Music Store in Chelsea for many years.

She and Duane also had a working farm while raising their four children. Virginia was fortunate to be able to retire to Florida with Duane in her early sixties where they spent over twenty winters as proud owners at Saddlebag Lake Resort in Lake Wales, Florida, where they made many friends. The last couple of years of her life she was very well cared for by the staff at Countryside Care Center in Jackson. She was also very fortunate to have a very close family, including her siblings.

Survivors include her husband, Duane; her sons, David (Joanne) Rowe, Douglas (Shirley) Rowe; her daughter, Lowene (Jeff) Hughes; son-in-law Ron Lorenzen; all of Grass Lake; a brother, Vince (Shirley) Burg; a sister, Pat Burg Dietz; eight grandchildren, Daniel, John, Darin, Patrick, Kurt, Kelly, Rodney, Dwana; many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and many loving nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Jeannene Lorenzen in December, 2014; four sisters, Mary Jane Lanning, Louise Guirey, Angeline Foster and Gretchen Spaulding.

A Funeral Mass will be held at a later date at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea. Burial will be at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Waterloo, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to Waterloo Natural History Association or St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

Heldt_Carl_CroppedCarl A. Heldt
Grass Lake, MI

Age 89, died Thursday, Jan. 8, 2015 at Jackson, Michigan.

He was born July 28, 1925 in Azalia, Michigan, the son of Harrison R. and Elvira M. (Featheringill) Heldt.

Mr. Heldt lived in Chelsea since 1977, coming from Ann Arbor. Carl was a WWII veteran, serving in the Navy on Okinawa where he earned the Purple Heart among other medals. He was the Director of Veterans Affairs in Washtenaw County for 27 years, retiring in 1979.

He also worked at Seitz Tavern for 30 years. Carl was a member of the Chelsea Olive Lodge #156, Order of the Eastern Star #122, Ann Arbor Golden Rule #159, American Legion, VFW, DAR, Zal Gaz Grotto, and Chelsea Senior Citizens. He volunteered many hours at Chelsea Community Hospital.

Carl was past Commander of the Washtenaw County Council of Veterans, past President of the Michigan Association of Veterans Counselors. Carl was also a member of the Elks Lodge #325, Ann Arbor Moose Lodge, Marine Corps League in Washtenaw Co., Military Order of Purple Heart Chapter #37, Lansing.

On Dec. 21, 1947, he married Sarah Jane (Sally) Banks in Dumont, NJ, and she preceded him in death on Sept. 20, 2003. On Dec. 10, 2005, he married Audrey (Musolf) Satterthwaite in Chelsea, and she survives. Other survivors include one daughter, Denise Martell of Chelsea; 3 grandsons, Jason (Adrian), Daniel, and Douglas Martell; two great-grandchildren, Katelyn and Joshua; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He also leaves three step-children and their families, Dawn (Tim) Clark, Lynsey Clark, and Matthew Chrisinske, Mark (Suzanne) Bucholz, Sarah Bucholz, Rev. Kyle (Loren) Bucholz, Claudette (GH) O’Dell, Mark Kindy, Molly (John) Durham and Grant Durham. He was preceded in death by one son, Paul in 1967, three brothers, Russell in 1974, Delbert in 1987 and Warren in 2014; his sister Ruth Hansen in 2004; and his parents.

Funeral services will be held Monday, Jan. 12, 1 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Rev. Joy Barrett and Rev. Kyle Bucholz officiating. The family will receive friends Sunday, 1-5 p.m., with a Masonic Service at 5 p.m.

A private burial will be held at Washtenong Memorial Park in Ann Arbor. Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

Hommel_MaryMary Everista (Graham) Hommel went to be with our Lord on Jan. 8, 2015.

The long-time resident of Midland was living in Chelsea, Michigan. “Evie” was the daughter of James Henry Graham and Mary Ellen (Sheridan) Graham. She was born on April 14, 1915 in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. She met Maurice C. Hommel after his family moved to Windsor from Montreal, Quebec. They both worked and saved during the depths of The Depression.

They were married on Oct. 28, 1939 and moved to Detroit. Evie was extremely proud of her new U.S. citizenship but retained strong ties to her Canadian heritage. They soon relocated to Bay City and then to Midland to be part of the newly formed Dow Corning Corporation.

Evie raised six children and was very active in the growth of Blessed Sacrament Church and school. She was one of the very early members of the Newman Club, a Catholic women’s organization. Both Evie and her husband were active in establishing Regina High School. The Depression had made advanced education too costly in the Thirties but Evie always retained her desire for learning. While in her 60s, after the demands of raising six children finally diminished, she took time for herself to earn her Associates Degree from Delta College. She also began her work in retail sales at “the Hallmark” store, gradually decreasing her working hours as she and her husband spent more time in Myrtle Beach.

Everista was predeceased by her husband, Maurice C. Hommel, her brother Donald Graham, her daughter-in-law Judith Hommel, nephew Tony Graham, and her lifelong friend Frances Reaume. She is survived by her six children, Jacqueline (Jeff) Hartman, Penelope (Jim Bergman) Hommel, Ralph (Bonnie), John (Margaret), Mike, and Mark (Phoebe). She is also survived by 15 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held in Chelsea, Michigan at the Chelsea Retirement Community’s main chapel on Sunday Jan. 11, 2015 at 1 p.m., with visitation from 12-1 p.m. Burial will be at Midland Calvary Cemetery in Midland, Michigan on Monday, Jan. 12, 11 a.m. Memorial donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

 

brownMelinda Kay Brown (Mindy)
59 years old from Chelsea died Thursday the 18th of December, 2014 at the University of Michigan Hospital after a long illness.

Mindy was born July 6, 1955 in Jackson, MI.

She was preceded in death by her father, William Fall Sr., mother Charleen Kurtz and step father Robert Kurtz. She is survived by her husband Robert Brown, sons Bruce (Francis) Goodin, Jeremy and Jason Goodin, sister Darlene Firtj and brother William (Robyn) Fall, step daughter Joane (Brown) and her husband Vaughn Mills, grandchildren Christopher and Donna Goodin, Breanne Bushlin, Matthew, Mitchell and Nathan Mills. She also had a special place in her heart for Jacob Richerman who she loved like a grandson. Mindy had several nieces and nephews who she loved dearly.

She was an amazing loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother (Nana) and aunt.

Lewis,-Allen-photoRev. Allen J. Lewis
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 97, died Jan. 1, 2015 at his home in Chelsea Retirement Community after a short illness.

He was born Oct. 4, 1917 in Toledo, OH, the son of Bradley and Ellen (Franks) Lewis.

Allen moved to Chelsea in 1998 after a long career as a United Methodist minister, high school English teacher, and farmer. He was an active leader in Boy Scouts for many years and received the Wood Badge and Silver Beaver award. He enjoyed the outdoors, baseball and softball, church camp, and spent many summers at the cabin he built on Spider Lake near Traverse City, MI.

On Aug. 10, 1941, he married Kathleen Thurman and she preceded him in death in 1999. He is survived by two sons, Rev. Kendall Lewis of Battle Creek, MI and James (Marilyn) Lewis of Vermillion, OH; one daughter, Carole (Peter) DeHart of Ann Arbor; 6 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and one brother, Ted (Betty Mae) Lewis. He was preceded in death by one sister, Betty Jean Droessler; and one brother, Robert Lewis.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015 in the Chapel at Chelsea Retirement Community in Chelsea, with the Rev. Nancy Lynn officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Benevolent Fund of the United Methodist Retirement Communities Foundation. Cremation has taken place and his ashes will be interred at a later date.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Sodt,-Elizabeth-webElizabeth (Brown) Sodt
Of Manchester

Died Jan. 1, 2015 in Tecumseh, Michigan at the age of 91.

She was born the daughter of Albert and Louise (King) Brown on Dec. 11, 1923 in Redford, Michigan.

On Sept. 20, 1947 she married Louis Dean Sodt and he preceded her in death. She enjoyed camping with her husband in their trailer. She was an avid card player and enjoyed the game of bridge and also playing the penny slots at the casino. Growing up near Detroit, she enjoyed watching the Tigers. She was a nurse for over 40 years starting at Foote Hospital where she met her husband and finishing with 15 years of service at Chelsea Hospital.

Elizabeth is survived by her children Martha (Ron) Evilsizer of Manchester, Mary LaMarre of Yardley, PA, Kristin (Bob) Smith of Las Vegas, NV, William (Nancy) Sodt of Manchester, Dianne (Gregory) Davitt of Durham, NC, Brenda (Chuck Marshall) Foster of Ann Arbor, also surviving are 16 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Thomas, Milner, and William Brown as well as her grandson Bill Sodt.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, on Saturday, Jan. 10 at 11 a.m.

The family will receive friends at the church from 10 a.m. until the hour of Mass. Expressions of Sympathy may be made to Hospice of Lenewee.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Steinaway,-Waldo--webWaldo B. “Wally” Steinaway IV
of Waterloo Twp., Michigan

Age 35, passed away at home while holding his wife’s hand on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2014.

He was born on Oct. 31, 1979, in Ypsilanti, MI, the son of Waldo B. and Cheryl (Manier) Steinaway III. On March 23, 2013, he married Carrie L. Harris in Grass Lake, and she survives.

Wally had battled fiercely for two years with cancer. Numerous rounds of chemo, radiation, and trial drugs never kept him down. He always said that at the end of his battle he wanted to do something that would make a difference, whether that meant being a police officer, firefighter, or paramedic, but in the end he chose to donate himself to science in the hope of finding a cure for the late relapse of cancer that he experienced.

Wally graduated from Chelsea High School in 1999. He liked working on computers, trying to fix them. He loved working on cars and his favorites were Chevys. He also loved working on projects around the house. He was one who couldn’t sit still. He was the biggest kid at heart and this was reflected through his love for Optimus Prime from his favorite childhood cartoon, Transformers. Wally had worked as a binder operator for Malloy, which is now Edwards Brothers Malloy. He was a very likable guy and a good friend to all he met. He was helpful and giving, never turning away anybody who asked for help. He was a jack of all trades, the handy man. He was a fighter, hero, and angel for his family. He was a good brother and son, and a loving husband and father.

He is also survived by his children: Kara M., Haile R., Alex B., and Ryleigh L. Steinaway; his parents, Waldo (Beth) Steinaway III and Cheryl Steinaway; his sisters, Susan (Joe) Martinez and Sabrina Booth; and his in-laws, Michael and Constance Harris (Carrie’s parents).

A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Friday, Jan. 9, 2015, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Online contributions may be made to “Team Wally” on the GoFundMe website by visiting the following link.

Renz,-Raymond-webRaymond L. Renz
of Ann Arbor, Michigan

Age 98, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2015, at Brookdale Senior Living in Ann Arbor.

He was born on May 15, 1916, at the family farmhouse in Lima Twp., MI, the son of German immigrants, Lewis and Sarah (Gross) Renz. He graduated from Ann Arbor High School in 1934. He was a farmer all of his life and was a lifelong member of Salem Evangelical Lutheran Church, Ann Arbor.

Private graveside services were held at Salem Evangelical Lutheran Church Cemetery, Ann Arbor.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Chelsea Community Fair.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

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