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Obituaries 2018


Lois J. Chiesa
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 87, died Thursday, December 27, 2018 at Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born January 18, 1931 in Arma, Kansas, the daughter of Frank L. and Mary (Dugoni) Wilson.

Lois did volunteer work for many years at Bayshore Windmill Village, Freedom Village, and Beaumont Hospital. She liked to say, “Think of me with a smile or don’t think of me at all.”

On October 1, 1949, she married Benjamin J. Chiesa in Detroit, and he preceded her in death on June 9, 2008. Survivors include a son James (Janet) Chiesa of Chelsea; a daughter, Cheryl (Gerald) Brown of Swartz Creek; 6 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

A private memorial service will be held Cole Funeral Chapel. Burial will be in the Mansion Memorial Gardens in Ellenton, FL.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Leukemia Foundation.


Robert Patrick Smith
of Chelsea

“Pat”, age 76, passed away at home in Chelsea on December 27, 2018.

Born to Minerva Lorraine Hepburn and Joseph Raymond Smith on May 2, 1942 in Ann Arbor, Pat was the youngest of six children.

An independent, proud Irishman, Pat lived life fully and fiercely loved his family and friends. His larger than life smile, bright blue eyes, and sharp sense of humor drew people to him and nurtured unlikely friendships. Pat enjoyed people and proudly carried mail in Ann Arbor for more than 35 years before retiring from the USPS.

He loved playing golf and relished the time he had in retirement to enjoy golf courses around the country and in Ireland. An avid reader and history buff, Pat delighted in discovering his family’s ancestry and loved to watch old movies, especially westerns, and football.

Pat will be greatly missed by his brother Dick; son John “Jack” Smith (Jennifer); six grandchildren: Geneva (Chris Moritz), Zealand, Annabel, Grant, Lindsay, Reese; great grandson Henry and great granddaughter on the way; his faithful canine companion Hooch; many nieces and nephews; and many wonderful friends, especially Rick, Judy, Frank, and Betty.

Help celebrate Pat’s life on Saturday, January 26 from 2 to 4 pm at Chelsea Community Fairgrounds.


Lyle Tindall
Ypsilanti, MI

Age 72, died Thursday, December 27, 2018 at Superior Woods Heathcare Center, Ypsilanti, Michigan.

He was born September 14, 1946 in Ypsilanti, the son of Donald J. and  Evelyn Wilhemina (Haack) Tindall.

Lyle graduated from Ypsilanti High School, and then attended Cleary College. He served in the US Navy during the Vietnam War. Lyle worked for the UAW Ford plant in Ypsilanti. He was a proud member of Alcoholics Anonymous and the UAW Local #849, where he was chairman of the Retirees Chapter for many years. Lyle was also a member of the UAW Veterans Committee, and on the Board of Directors of People Driven Credit Union in Ypsilanti.

Lyle liked his motorcycle, and was part of the Road Warriors senior motorcycle club.

He is survived by his brother Tom (Donna) Tindall; his sisters, Dorothy Cantrell, Thelma Davis, and Faye (Phil) Weiseneuger; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and five siblings.

Private memorial services were held.

Memorial contributions may be made to your local chapter of Alcoholics Anonymous or Meals on Wheels.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Charles Wendell “Chuck” Millar
of Chelsea

Age 85, passed away December 21, 2018.

He was born June 10, 1933, in Lansing, to Charles E. Millar and Pamelia Millar and is survived by his wife of 63 years, Susan Pirnie Millar; sons, Timothy (Debra) Millar, Stephen (Sandy) Millar and Peter (Thana) Millar; daughter, Elizabeth (Tony) Sensoli; 10 grandchildren; and 6 great-grandchildren.

Chuck graduated with a BA from Albion College, a Master of Divinity from Yale Divinity School and Master of Communication from Michigan State University. After serving as an Episcopal parish priest, Chuck forged careers in consulting and public service, retiring from the State of Michigan as Director of the Michigan Public Service Commission.

What made Chuck such a special man was the exemplary life he led. His deep faith was manifest in a life of service. Active in the Civil Rights Movement, Chuck served in the front lines of Freedom Summer, the 1964 drive to register African Americans to vote in the south.

As a public servant, he was on the cutting edge in treating drug addiction and promoting energy efficiency. In his personal life, Chuck never stopped examining the human condition and devoted himself to improving it.

He was a beloved husband, father and grandfather; Chuck was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren. He was an active, engaged grandparent, giving of his time, energy and wisdom. His hobbies included music, sailing and woodworking; he loved the out-of-doors.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, Jan. 5, 2019, at 11 a.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Lansing.

A service was held at St. Clare’s Episcopal Church of Ann Arbor on Saturday, Dec. 29.

Memorial contributions may be made to Episcopal Relief and Development Fund or St. Paul’s Episcopal Church of Lansing or St. Clare’s Episcopal Church of Ann Arbor.

Online condolences may be left for his family at www.EstesLeadley.com.


Terry Allen Loomis
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 65, died Monday, December 17, 2018 at his home. He was born October 9, 1953 in Flint, Michigan, the son of Douglas LeRoy and Donna Evelyn (Lee) Loomis. Terry enjoyed golfing, shooting pool, playing his keyboard and seconds on anything to eat.

He is survived by one daughter, Teri Nicole “Nikki” (Larry) Carter of Montrose; one brother, Mark Loomis; three sisters, Kathy Loomis, Connie (Gary) Elder, Darry Chaney; his stepmother, Veronica Loomis; three stepbrothers, Dennis (Donna) Pelon, Stephen (Julia) Pelon, Mark Pelon; four stepsisters, Carolyn Norton, Cynthia (Mohammad) Jarrad, Claudette (Edward) Coughenour, Charlotte Sanchez; six beloved grandchildren, Molly, Lawrence, Natalie, Eden, Avalynn, and Lydia. He was preceded in death by both parents and stepbrother Greg.

Special thanks to the angels at Arbor Hospice; Dr. Musolf, Social Worker – Heather, Nurse – Fab, the aid – Sondra (also known as “the cleaning lady”), massage therapist -Tori, music therapist – Rachael, Spiritual care advisor – Ray. Also to special person Kate who cut his hair in our home. They all made him feel so special.

Memorial contributions may be made to Arbor Hospice, 2366 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48103.

Cremation has taken place and no funeral services are planned per Terry’s instructions.


Katherine ‘Kitty’ Randall Moore
Kitty passed away peacefully on Friday, December 7th, 2018 with many of her family members by her side.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William H. and Lena Mae Kelly as well as her three sisters: Loraine (Roy) Robine, Ruby (Fred) Andris, and Patricia (Harold) Acker.

After Kitty graduated from South Eastern High School in Detroit, she applied for employment with the State of Michigan in Ypsilanti. It was there that she met her future husband, Kenneth Bernard (Bernie) Randall. It didn’t take them long to know, they wanted to spend the rest of their lives together. They were married on December 20th, 1947.

They were blessed with three healthy and happy children, Susan (Ron) Fielder of Manchester, Kathleen Kay Ross of Woodstock, Ga., and Micheal (Beckie) Randall of Raleigh, N.C., and in time to their delight, ten grandchildren. It was a wonderful life and love that lasted thirty-five years, until Bernie’s death on February 1, 1983.

For the next six years, Kitty worked at Brides’ Showcase in Ann Arbor and spent most of her free time enjoying her family and watching her grandchildren grow into fine young adults.

In the spring of 1989, she met Wayne L. Moore and found great happiness, when they married on June 12, 1989. Her marriage to Wayne brought his three children into her life. Brian W. Moore, Maryjean (Nolan) Bailey, and Glenn Moore, as well as five more grandchildren. In the fall of 1991, Wayne was diagnosed with lymphoma. He tolerated the treatment very well, and they enjoyed visiting the continental states seeing as much of the country as possible, always stopping to see their family members, which now included 15 great grandchildren.

Kitty lost Wayne early in the morning of March 31st, 2004. After his death, she stayed at their Portage Lake cottage for three more years, until she decided it was time to make a change. She sold the house, and after searching for alternative living, she decided to move to Chelsea Retirement Community. She was happy in her Garden apartment. She enjoyed the active life style and meeting new friends. But mostly she enjoyed her independence and the freedom it offered.

More recently she lived in Manchester with frequent visits by family members and great-grand sons who kept her laughing. The family would like to thank Arbor Hospice for their loving care during Mom’s last days.

A celebration of Kitty’s life will be held on Sunday, January 6, 2019 at 12:30 at the Comfort Inn Village Conference Center in Chelsea.

Donations may be made to St. Louis Center, 16195 W Old US Hwy 12, Chelsea, MI 48118.

Kitty’s ashes will be buried in Oak Grove Cemetery in Manchester at a later date.


Jay Bradley Doyle

On Thursday, November 28, 2018, Brad Doyle, passed away unexpectedly at age 60.

Brad was born on March 12, 1958 in Camden, NJ to James Doyle and Marjorie Doyle Moore. He graduated from both the Hong Kong International School and Thomas Jefferson High School in Bloomington, MN, where he loved playing baseball. He attended the University of Michigan and made the baseball team as a walk on but later quit because it was interfering with his studies, although one of Brad’s favorite sayings was, “never let school interfere with your education!”

While studying economics, he started his own international Amway business. Brad and his former wife, Vera Lynne (Ritchie) Doyle, achieved a high level of success with Amway; and Brad went on to serve on the Amway IBO Board for several years.

Brad had a passion for building businesses and teaching leadership skills. He was known for his charismatic and compassionate spirit, and always made others feel confident and good about themselves. He was a great listener and enjoyed helping others achieve their dreams. For Brad, the glass was ALWAYS half full!

Brad is survived by his former wife, Vera Lynne (Ritchie) Doyle, his mother Marjorie Doyle Moore, Bloomington, MN, his father James Doyle and his wife Judith of Lakeville, MN, his sister, Renée Blasky, residing in Nairobi, Kenya, and his brother, David Doyle of Burnsville, MN, as well as three nephews, Mike Doyle of Livonia, MI, Paul and Desiree Doyle, of Richfield, MN, and Brandon Doyle of Minneapolis, MN.

A Celebration of Life will be held March 16, 2019. The Church 3000 Strayer Rd, Maumee, Ohio, 43537 11:00 a.m.

In Lieu of flowers please send to The Church 3000 Stayer Rd, Maumee Ohio C/O Pastor Tony Scott.


Bonnie J. Lausted
Ann Arbor, MI

At the feisty age of 97, Bonnie Jean slipped away peacefully in the night, Tuesday, December 11, 2018, at Atria Park, Ann Arbor, Michigan.

She was born November 23, 1921 in Kewanna, IN, the daughter of Don and Edna (Smith) Nafe. When her parents moved to Michigan to work in the Willow Run Bomber plant during WWII, Bonnie was in nursing school in Indianapolis, Indiana. When she graduated, she too moved to Ypsilanti where she met Gwen Carl Morhous. She was a young nurse at the old Beyer Hospital and he, the supervising architect of the new.

Bonnie was a very bright, independent woman who in some ways was way ahead of her time. She found her intellectual love as an emergency room nurse supervisor, where the excitement of a busy emergency room kept her energized and passionate about great emergency patient care.

She had amusing stories to tell and if anyone ever needed emergency care, they’d want her on their team. In another lifetime, she might have become a very successful doctor. She was very proud of her nursing career having worked at one time or another at all the local hospitals. She even worked at the Chelsea Hospital at its beginning, when it was just one building with an emergency clinic.


During her time at in the emergency room of old St. Joes, she moved to Ann Arbor, where she met Clyde Lausted. They “Bonnie & Clyde” married July 11, 1972. They soon purchased a cottage on Portage Lake as Clyde was an old sailor from Buffalo, NY. She fell in love with summer cottage life!

Nothing made her happier than (except perhaps garage sale hunting) when friends and family came to visit. Her son, Marc and his family loved to visit and sail on the lake, and she rejoiced when her Grandson Zac would come to stay.

Bonnie & Clyde moved to Chelsea from Ann Arbor in 1993.

In the last years of her life, long after Clyde died in 2003, she lived at the CRC Independent Living for a while, then moved to Atria Park Assisted Living in Ann Arbor.

Survivors include her son, Marc (Kathy) Morhous of Dexter; a grandson, Zachary Morhous of Kalamazoo; 2 sisters, Peggy Stadtmiller of Ypsilanti and Evelyn Sue Guiley of Elkhart, IN; and her loving nieces, Cindy Wicht, Sally Pakala, Susie Slagenwhite, Linda Hall, and Lisa Wade. She was preceded in death by 5 siblings.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, December 20, at 4:00 at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea. The family will receive friends from 2-4 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.


Esther Kuelske
of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Flint, Saginaw, and Rochester Hills

Age 81, died Monday, December 10, 2018 at her home in Chelsea.

She was born April 9, 1937 in Flint, Michigan, the daughter of Morris C. and Rita V. (Wiggins) Cummings.

Esther graduated from Flint Technical High School in 1955. She was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Rochester before moving to Chelsea, and was currently a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church, Chelsea.

On November 2, 1957, she married Richard Kuelske, and he survives. Other survivors include four daughters, Barbara Rubin of AZ, Kathy McVeigh of FL, Jeannine (Kevin) Canze of Rochester Hills, Andi (John Luther) Philippe of Chelsea; 8 grandchildren, Ethan Canze, Jessica Rubin, Bradley Rubin, Brenna Rubin, Aidan McVeigh, Alana McVeigh, Yves Philippe, and Indigo Philippe; a great-granddaughter, Elsie; a sister, Marion Cummings of Flushing; and a sister-in-law, Patty Cummings. She was preceded in death by her brother, Cecil Cummings.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 15 at 2:00 at Our Savior Lutheran Church, Chelsea, with Rev. Daniel Pezzica officiating.  Burial will be at Roselawn Memorial Gardens, Saginaw. The family will receive friends at the church from Noon – 2:00 before the funeral.

Memorial contributions may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church or the charity of your choice.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Dr. Robert Bruce “Bob” Glenn
Chelsea, Michigan, longtime Marquette resident

Age 91, died peacefully after several months of loving care in the Assisted Living residence of the Silver Maples of Chelsea.

Born July 9, 1927, in Kalamazoo to Winfield Church and Helen Grace (McCarty) Glenn, Robert was a 1945 graduate of Kalamazoo Central High School and the first of his family to graduate from university, having paid his own way through school as an improvisational pianist for a dance band.

He graduated from Western Michigan University in 1950 with concentrations in Chemistry, German, and English studies; that same year he married co-ed and love of his life Rosemary Ann Kent. Robert spent one year as “the Worst Chemist in the World” before enrolling at the University of Michigan for graduate studies in English Language, Literature, and Linguistics. This time his tuition was paid by Rosemary’s teaching salary, and he never forgot the debt he owed for her influence, good faith, and sacrifice toward his successes.

In 1956, Robert began a career in higher education while also pursuing his PhD at the University of Michigan. He held professorships and administrative positions at Cortland State College (now SUNY Cortland) and the University of Michigan in Flint. In 1971, the Glenn family—by then encompassing daughters Tama Delne, Minde Char, and Deri Sabra—moved to Marquette, MI (“heaven on earth”), where Dr. Glenn was named Professor of English and the Dean of Arts and Sciences for Northern Michigan University. The ‘firing dean’ kept his promises, his high standards, and his door open; within three years he was elevated to Provost and Academic Vice President, a post he maintained through 1984.

With Rosemary’s encouragement, Robert made the not-so-difficult decision to remain in his beloved Marquette rather than pursue a position of Provost at a larger university or a college presidency of his own. Instead, he served as Distinguished professor of English at NMU from 1984 until his retirement in 1997.

Robert and Rosemary spent more than 40 years in Marquette, deeply involved in the life and worship of Marquette Presbyterian Church, avid sailors, arduous supporters of local artisans and musicians, and faithful officers of many civic and philanthropic causes to benefit the city they loved. Upon retirement, they discovered the joy of travel to historic places, art galleries and museums, and beautiful landscapes. Though they loved the deep snows of the U.P., Hawaii became their perennial winter favorite.

Bringing their art collection with them, Robert and Rosemary sold their ‘big’ house and returned to the neighborhood of The Big House in 2013. Robert was delighted to attend five successive seasons of Michigan Wolverine home football games, walk the beautiful grounds of the Silver Maples Retirement Community, swim and steam at the Wellness Center, choose wines for fine dining with his wife and friends at Silver Maples, and to live in proximity to his family.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers-in-law Bill and Loren, his niece Joy, and his beloved daughter Minde (Cliff) Browning. He is survived by Rosemary, his wife of 68 years; dear daughters Tama (Andrew) Abel and Deri (David) Gray; sisters Jean (Loren) Warfield and Sallie (Jim) Platt; sister-in-law Charlene (Bill) Thompson; granddaughters Ashley and Sarah Gray; and several nieces, nephews, and their children.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 17, 2018 at Silver Maples of Chelsea, 100 Silver Maples Dr., Chelsea, MI 48118. The Rev. Jeff Crowder will officiate. Reception to follow.

Interment will take place on a future date at First Presbyterian Church, Marquette, MI.

Memorial contributions may be made to Silver Maples Silver Lining Fund or to the Marquette Symphony Orchestra.


Ihla Rosalie Donaldson
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 100, died Thursday, November 29, 2018 at Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born June 15, 1918 in Holland, Minnesota, the daughter of Horace and Myrtle (Gilfillan) Lynn.

Ihla married Paul Donaldson, a career Navy man, on Nov. 21, 1938 and they lived all over the country, as well as Guam and Puerto Rico. However, they moved from Minneapolis, MN to Cheverly, MD in 1957, and they lived there until moving to Holiday, FL in 1974.

After her husband’s passing in 1986, she remained in Florida until 1997. She then moved to Saline to be closer to two of her daughters, and lived there for 5 years, from there she moved to the Chelsea Retirement Community where she has lived until her death.

Ihla loved golf, bridge, gardening and canning. She loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Before moving to Chelsea, Ihla was very active in the Saline United Methodist Church attending bible studies, working in the fair kitchen, volunteering in the office, attending one of the Ladies Circles and Adult Sunday School.

Ihla is survived by three daughters, Lynne (Raymond) Chillano of Las Vegas, NV, Janet (James) O’Kunze of The Villages, Fl, M. Paulette (Michael) Suchy of Ypsilanti; 6 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild and 1 on the way. She was preceded in death by 1 granddaughter, 1 great-granddaughter, 2 brothers, and 3 sisters.

A funeral service will be held Monday, Dec. 3, 2 p.m. with visitation at 1:30 p.m. at the Chelsea Retirement Community Towsley Chapel, with Rev. Tina Zimmerman officiating.

Burial will be at Bay Pines National Cemetery, Bay Pines, FL.

Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Retirement Community or Arbor Hospice.


Bonnie Jean Empey Rinehart
of Tucson, AZ, formerly of Freeland, Ann Arbor, and Chelsea, MI

Age 89, passed away on November 13, 2018 in Tucson, AZ.

She was born June 23, 1929 in Midland, Michigan. Bonnie married Floyd J. Rinehart, and he passed away on October 1, 1989.

Bonnie worked for Dow Chemical, General Motors, and the University of Michigan. She was a licensed childcare giver for many years. In her later years Bonnie helped making quilts for children in need in Tucson, Arizona. She leaves behind a legacy of caring and loving for many children beyond those in her family.

Bonnie leaves behind five children, Parks Rinehart, Brandon Rinehart, Dawn Long, Barbara Wood, and Kollete Golec; one sister, Patricia Griswold; eight grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Bonnie was laid to rest with her husband in Washtenong Memorial Park in Ann Arbor.

Donations can be made in her name to The Miller Empey Natural Science Room in Freeland, MI; the Ronald McDonald House, or www.Audubon.org.

Local arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Marilyn Jane Wojcicki
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 92, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2018 at Silver Maples of Chelsea.

She was born September 16, 1926 in Ypsilanti, Michigan, the daughter of Gillman and Grace (Allison) Mullreed.

Marilyn grew up in Belleville, graduating from Belleville High School in the Class of 1944.  After attending Cleary College, she worked for Belleville Bank and the City of Ypsilanti. Marilyn was active at First Congregational Church, serving on the Board of Deacons, as Church Clerk, and on many committees, including the  Memorials Committee and Missions Committee.

She played in numerous Bridge clubs and enjoyed Euchre.  She often spent summers at Higgins Lake.      

She married Sylvester Wojcicki on November 29, 1946 in Belleville, MI, and he preceded her in death on February 26, 1988. Survivors include her 5 children, Carol (David) Baran of Higgins Lake, MI; their sons, David (Julie) and great-grandsons Levi, Hudson, and Reid, and Jim; Thomas (Susan) Wojcicki of Metamora, MI, and their children, Mike, Rob and Laura (Justin Dickey) Wojcicki; James (Jacquelyn) of Bradenton, FL their children, Matt, Mark and Rachel;  Robert (Ingrid Verhagen) of St. Paul, MN, their children, Anna and Isaac; David (Amy) of Ludington, MI, their children, Bennett, Cooper and Owen; several nieces and nephews, including her dear niece, Pamela Reitmeyer and her sons, Daniel and Michael. She was preceded in death by her sister, Phyllis Figg. Marilyn’s family expresses sincere gratitude to the staff of Silver Maples and Arbor Hospice for the care she received.

Funeral services will be held Monday, Dec. 3, 2018, 11 a.m. at the First Congregational Church in Chelsea, with Pastor Joe Jeffreys officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Sunday 3-6 p.m. and at the church Monday 10-11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Congregational Church or the charity of your choice.


Margaret “Maggie” St. Clair
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 64, passed away suddenly on Saturday, November 24, 2018.

She was born June 26, 1954 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Edmund Ernst and Joan Marie (Downey) Gunther.

Maggie graduated from Dexter High School in 1972, and is an alumnus of Eastern Michigan University. She hired into the University of Michigan in 1974. She hit her high point as the Director of Administration for the Michigan Marching Band, where for over 30 years she was very loved, appreciated, and respected, with many friends.

In Chelsea, she was very involved with her son’s activities, including Washington Street Show Choir and manager for Chelsea Varsity Hockey.

She married Gerald St. Clair in 1975, and he survives. Other survivors include her son, Craig (Julia) St. Clair of Chandler, AZ; her father, Edmund Gunther of Dexter; her brother, Paul Gunther (Jen Ripple) of Ann Arbor; two sisters, Jean (Robert) Groh of CA; Connie Conlin of Saline; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her mother, Joan Gunther; her brother, Thomas Gunther; and her aunt, Donna Downey.

Her life will be celebrated with a Mass Friday, November 30, 11:00 am at St. Mary Catholic Church at 14200 E Old US 12, Chelsea, with the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating.

Visitation begins at 10 a.m. Burial will follow the service at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends on Thursday, November 29 from 6-8 p.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, with a vigil service will be held at 7:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Maggie St. Clair Scholarship Fund with the Michigan Marching Band. Designation to the University of Michigan Marching Band, attention Kimberly Baumgartner, Revelli Hall, 350 E. Hoover St. Ann Arbor, MI 48104-3707.


James Kay Sommers
Dexter, MI, formerly of Fremont, IN

Age 72, died Monday, November 26, 2018 at his home.

He was born March 25, 1946 in Angola, Indiana, the son of John L. and Beulah E. (King) Sommers.

James graduated Magna Cum Laude from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 1968, and was in private practice in Dexter since 1970. He was a certified Chiropractic Sports Physician and was also certified in Chiropractic Physiological Therapeutics.

James was active in many organizations in his capacity as a Chiropractor, including the ACA Council on Sports Injuries and Physical Fitness, President of the Michigan Chiropractic Society, and Chairperson of the State of Michigan Board of Chiropractic. He also received recognition for his work with Ann Arbor Disaster Preparedness, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Boards, Michigan Palmer Alumni Association, Michigan State Police, Washtenaw County Emergency Management, and Washtenaw County Sheriff.

James was awarded Chiropractor of the Year in 2003 from the Michigan Chiropractic Society, and the Weldon S. Derifield Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005. He was also the Chiropractic Director for the US Open Professional Bowlers Association Tour in ‘94-‘95, and was Sports Board Item Writer for the American Board of Chiropractic Sports Physicians.

On September 5, 1965, he married Peggy Kling in Angola, IN, and she survives. Other survivors include his son James G. “Greg” (Myra) Sommers; his daughter, Cynthia A. (Michael Zgleszewski) Weaver; and four grandchildren, Niklas Sommers, Luke Weaver, Ethan Dunahoo, Elle Dunahoo. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Jerrie Sommers, and his sister, Mollie Dove.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Dec 1, noon at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Pastor Ray Maurer and Dr. T.J. Spencer officiating. The family will receive friends from 10-noon. A private burial will be held at Washtenong Memorial Park in Ann Arbor.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Huron Valley http://hshv.org/give/donate/ or Arbor Hospice https://www.arborhospice.org/donate/.


Jean Caroline Storey
of Chelsea, Michigan

Jean was born July 30, 1923 in Ionia, Michigan, and passed away peacefully on November 21, 2018.

She was the daughter of Robert R. and Virginia H. (Metzger) Weisgerber. Jean grew up on a dairy farm and was involved in all the activities you would expect her to be curious about.

Jean graduated from Ionia High School in 1941, and then attended business school in Lansing, Michigan. She was employed by Michigan Bell in East Lansing while Bill attended Michigan State College (now MSU) from 1946-1949. Jean and Bill moved to Chelsea in 1950, and to Jefferson Street in 1961 where they raised a family and lived for fifty-five years.

Jean was a wonderfully loving mother and homemaker. She was involved in the Girl Scouts, band boosters, and took her son’s Cub Scout Den on adventures to the Waterloo Recreation Area. Like many parents, she was the family’s driver’s training instructor, patiently coaching her children along one of the Chelsea areas gravel roads. Later, she was the receptionist at Dr. Joseph Krauss’ office in Chelsea.

Jean was a member of Chelsea First United Methodist Church, where she was active as a Sunday School teacher, a member of the Sarah Circle, Christian Home, and choir. Jean was first president of the Chelsea Garden Club. She enjoyed the birds in her own beautiful garden and instilled a reverence for nature in all her children. Jean was a devoted friend to many, of all ages.

After meeting on New Year’s Eve 1940 and corresponding with him during the war years, Jean married William F. Storey on August 31, 1946. Bill preceded her in death, passing on February 15, 2018. Jean’s survivors include three children, Sarah (Dennis) White of Onsted, James Storey of Traverse City, and John (Elizabeth) Storey of Grand Rapids; her brother, Robert “Stuart” Weisgerber of Ionia; six grandchildren, Marc (Ann) White, Peter White, Jill (Jeffrey) Blazok, Molly Storey, Camden Storey, and Anna Storey, and five great-grandchildren, June White, Nolan and Drew White, Abigail and Charlie Blazok. Alice Johnson, her sister, preceded her in death.

Jean’s life will be celebrated in a memorial service in the spring of 2019 on a date to be announced. Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to Silver Maples Silver Lining Fund, 100 Silver Maples Dr, Chelsea, MI 48118 or Arbor Hospice, 2366 Oak Valley Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48103.

Cole Funeral Chapel is managing the arrangements.


Robert Judson Calkins
Jackson, MI, formerly of Chelsea, MI

Age 86, died Friday, November 23, 2018 at Legacy Assisted Living in Jackson.

He was born September 7, 1932 in Northville, Michigan, the son of George H. and Nellie Irene (Sullivan) Calkins.

Bob graduated from Gaylord High School in 1951. After high school, he attended Lawrence Technological Institute. Robert worked for Ford Motor Company for 30 years, and was a member of the UAW.

After retirement, Ruth and Robert moved to Chelsea in 1981. He attended St. Mary Catholic Church. Bob did a lot of woodworking and loved hunting, especially deer and pheasant hunting. He was also an avid bowler.

On May 15, 1971, Robert married Ruth Marie Rossbach in Saline, and she survives. He is also survived by one sister, Judy Calkins of Plymouth, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Ronald Calkins, and a sister, Norma Davis.

A Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, November 27, 2018, 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, with the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating.

Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel on Monday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. with a Vigil Service at 7:15 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.


Sylvia Marlene Krieger
Jackson, MI, formerly of Chelsea, MI

Age 81, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, November 15, 2018 at Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice Home in Jackson, Michigan.

She was born April 30, 1937 in Cincinnati, Ohio, the daughter of James and Sylvia (Enlow) Duncan, formerly of Chelsea.

Marlene graduated from Elizabethtown High School. She worked for DANA in Chelsea and Global Dynamics in Ann Arbor. Marlene was a member of New Living Covenant Church in Jackson, where she sang in the choir and volunteered in many areas of the church.

She loved to sew and cook. She owned a ceramic shop “Pagoda Ceramics” in Chelsea for many years. She and Don were foster parents for many years.

On August 22, 1958, she married Donald Krieger, and he survives. Other survivors include two sons, Kevin Krieger of Portage Lake, Ed (Dianna) Krieger of California; and three daughters, La’Denia (Rodney) Lemmon of Florida, Dawn (Mike) Birchmeier of Lennon, Koreen Sage of Kansas; three brothers, Arlow “Ray” (Bonnie) Duncan of Florida, Jerry Duncan of Ohio, Jim Duncan of Ohio and one sister, Ruth Duncan of Ohio; several grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her son, Kelley (Dawn) Krieger, and one granddaughter, Jennifer.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, Nov. 20, 6:00 p.m. at New Covenant Living Church, with Rev. Jerry Cox officiating.  Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to New Covenant Living Church, 2405 W. Washington, Jackson MI, 49203.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Jean L. Ashley
Chelsea, MI

Age 103, died Saturday, November 10, 2018 at the Chelsea Retirement Community.

She was born November 10, 1915 in Glasgow, Scotland, the daughter of John and Ellen (Bain) Masterson.

Jean graduated from Cass Tech High School in Detroit, and was a State Swimming Champion. She was a cook at Chelsea High School for many years. She was active North Lake United Methodist Church and later Chelsea First United Methodist Church, and she was a Sunday School teacher and involved in the United Methodist Women. She enjoyed knitting and crocheting.

On April 6, 1935, Jean married Herman Ashley and he preceded her in death on September 3, 2001. Survivors include two sons, Richard (Judy) Ashley of Chelsea, John (Suzan) Ashley of Brooklyn, MI; one daughter, Mary Ellen (Henry) Douglass of Waldorf, MD; 3 grandchildren, Alan Ashley, Barbara Holiday, Kimberly White; 3 great-grandchildren, Courtney White, Ethan Holiday, and Joshua Ashley.

A memorial service will be held in the spring. Burial will be in Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to the UMRC Foundation or the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Willamina Duncan
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Belfast, N. Ireland, Warren and Roseville, Michigan

Age 86, died Thursday, October 25, 2018 at Chelsea Retirement Community.

She was born July 6, 1932 in Belfast, N. Ireland, the daughter of William Hugh and Mary Jane (Kerr) McCrea.

Willamina was a member of Erin Presbyterian Church in Roseville, Michigan.

On January 10, 1951, she married George Springer Duncan in Belfast, North Ireland, and he preceded her in death on September 25, 2011. Survivors include a son, Robert Laurence (Barbara) Duncan of Ocala, FL; a grandson, Sean Robert (Jessica) Duncan of Portage; a granddaughter, Heather Maureen (Matthew) Anderson-Duncan of Denver, CO; a great-granddaughter, Lillian Maeve Anderson-Duncan; and a sister, Charlotte Johnston of St. Catherine, Ontario. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Maureen Duncan, and a brother, Hugh McCrea.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, October 30, 10:30 am at Chelsea Retirement Community, Towsley Chapel, with Rev. Tina Zimmerman officiating. Visitation will be held Monday from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel.

Burial will be at Cadillac Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association or research.


Gunda Salyer
Jackson, MI

Age 86, died Friday, October 26, 2018 at Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice Home in Jackson.

She was born February 5, 1932 in Banburg, Germany. She retired from Camp International after 36 years.

Gunda enjoyed crossword puzzles.

She was married to Ollie Salyer for 56 years, and he survives. She is also survived by a son, Jesse Henman of Vandercook Lake; a daughter, Sharon (Mike) Schoendorf of Michigan Center; a step-daughter, Kathryn Ryan of Allegan, MI and many grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a son, Timothy Salyer, and a daughter, Karen Jordan.

No services are planned.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Dorothy Jean DeSmyther
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 81, died Wednesday, October 24, 2018 at Henry Ford Hospice Home in Jackson.

She was born February 11, 1937 in Chelsea, Michigan, the daughter of Fredrick and Vera (Hall) Young.

Dorothy was very invested in many churches, which included Chelsea Baptist Church, Immanuel Bible Church, and Mt. Hope Bible Church.  She taught Sunday School and was church treasurer for a while. Dorothy traveled extensively. She liked gardening in her flower beds, and she loved to read.

On October 28, 1956, she married Gale Ward DeSmyther in Chelsea, and he preceded her in death on June 26, 2012. Survivors include two sons, David DeSmyther, and Dan (Angela) DeSmyther both of Chelsea; two daughters, Debra (Jim) West of Robinson, TX, and Dianne (Matt) Dobos of Waterloo, MI; ten grandchildren; and 7 nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Bob and Don Young.

Funeral services will be held Monday, Oct. 29, 11:00 am at Mt. Hope Bible Church in Grass Lake, with Pastor Alan Mackey officiating.  Burial will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Waterloo.

The family will receive friends Sunday 3-6 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel.

Memorial contributions may be made to Mt. Hope Church, 12884 Trist Road, Grass Lake, MI 49240.


Donald E. Eisemann
Manchester, MI

Age 91, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, October 21, 2018.

He was born September 1, 1927 in Dexter, Michigan, the son of Otto and Leona (Sautter) Eisemann.

Don served in the Army at the end of WWII. He worked with his dad and his brother for Eisemann Oil, and later went to Chrysler Proving Grounds. Don’s real love was farming. He owned the family farm from 1962 until the end of his life. He was very good at tinkering, and fixing engines and farm machinery. Don was a member of Dexter Gospel Church.

On July 28, 1951, he married Beverly Ann Weatherwax in Chelsea, and she preceded him in death on January 27, 2012. Survivors include three daughters, Terri (Thomas) Eder of Chelsea, Jan (Scott) Tanner of Grass Lake, Karin (Tony) Rettig of Dexter; seven grandchildren, Michael (Constance) Eder, Mark Eder, Jason (Bekah) Lantis, Brian (Lauren) Lantis, Paul Weir, Jessica (Adam) Nicholl, Lindsay Rettig; eight great-grandchildren, David, Jack, and Nicholas Eder, Trevor Lantis, Asher and Samantha Lantis, Amelia, Lydia, and James Nicholl; three siblings, Willard (Bonnie) of Deering, ND, Leon of Saline, and Nancy White of Stockbridge; and several nieces and nephews.

A private funeral was held at Cole Funeral Chapel. Burial was at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to Dexter Gospel Church, 2253 Baker Rd, Dexter, MI 48130.


Jean Miriam (Seeley) Ketcham
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 98, died Monday, Oct. 15, 2018.

Daughter of Glenn Palmer Seeley and Georgina Brondige Seeley, Mrs. Ketcham was born at home in Pontiac, MI on March 4, 1920. She worked at the Pontiac Daily Press in one of its first high school apprenticeship programs before graduating from Pontiac High School. After graduating from Pontiac Business Institute, she graduated in Home Economics and Journalism from Michigan State College in 1942. She was Foods Editor of the Chicago Daily News, then worked at Kellogg’s of Battle Creek and in the Livonia schools.

She married Gilbert N. Ketcham Sept. 6, 1941, in Waterford, MI.  In 1967, they bought a Management Recruiters, Inc. franchise and moved to Charlotte, NC. She was a member of Charlotte Quilters Guild and President of Raintree Women’s Club. She was preceded in death in 2003 by her husband of 61 years.

Survivors include her children, Susan (Joel) Hickey of Ann Arbor, Mark G. (Nancy) Ketcham of East China, Matthew G. (Barbara) Ketcham of Landrum, SC; grandchildren, Sean A. Hickey of Chelsea, Dr. Georgina S. Hickey of Ypsilanti, Sarah (Jason) Schneider of Livonia, Erik M. (Jen) Ketcham of San Francisco, CA, Holly (Jason) Brock of Columbia, SC; great-grandchildren, Emma and Owen Nelson; nephews, David (Ronda Macchello) Taylor, Glenn (Ruth) Moffat, Steven (Cathi) Moffat,  David (Linda) Manning. Jean was preceded in death by sisters Evelyn Taylor and Marjorie Moffat.

Since 2007, Jean lived at Chelsea Retirement Community. She was active on several committees, Secretary of the Resident Council, and a member of Questers International.

A memorial service will be held at the main chapel of Chelsea Retirement Community on Oct. 23, 2018, at 2:00 pm.  Interment will be March 3, 2019 at Providence Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, NC, with her husband.

Memorials may be made to the UMRC Foundation, 805 W. Middle Street, Chelsea, MI 48118, Faith in Action, 603 S. Main Street, Chelsea, MI 48118, or Providence Cemetery Fund, 101 Providence Church Lane, Charlotte, NC 28277.


Darell G. Maschke
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Ann Arbor

Age 75, passed away Wednesday, October 10, 2018 at the University of Michigan Hospital.

He was born July 24, 1943 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Gustave A. and Arlene Flossie (Schumaker) Maschke.

Darell graduated from Pioneer High School in 1961. He retired from General Motors Hydra-matic Plant in Ypsilanti, where he had worked as a millwright. He also worked for Walmart as a sales associate. Darell loved to play golf and spend time with friends.

He is survived by a daughter, Rhonda Lewandowski of Dexter; his sons, Brent Maschke of Lexington, KY, Rodney Maschke of Fort Worth, TX, Clifford Maschke of Brighton; two sisters, Jan Carpenter and Robin Reynolds; 10 grandchildren; and 4 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by 2 sisters, Kay Bedard, and Cheryl Hale.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel on Saturday, Oct. 13, from 5-9 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 20450 Civic Center Dr., Southfield, MI 48076.


Victor Arnold Ross Stevens
Chelsea

Age 86, passed away at St. Joseph Mercy Chelsea Hospital on Sunday, October 7, 2018.

He was born in Detroit, MI on May 25, 1932, the son of Herbert W. and Mable (Bales) Stevens. On May 10, 1958 he married Shirley Ann Cruzen in Detroit, MI, and she survives.

Also surviving are his daughter Kerry Jayne (Christopher) Smyth of Manchester, two grandchildren Ross and Olivia Smyth, and one brother Harold (Mavis) Stevens of Livonia. He was preceded in death by four sisters Maisie Howard, Margaret Kaufmann, Felicity Lahti, Anne Kurtz, and one brother William Stevens.

Victor served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean Conflict. He then worked as an accountant for Ford Motor Company for 25 years, retiring in 1991. Victor had lived in Chelsea for the past year, but he had lived in Ann Arbor most of his life.

Victor was very active in local and national election campaigns. He helped establish the Marine Corp. League, Washtenaw County Detachment 414, and was a very active member. Victor, along with his wife Shirley, enjoyed many years of traveling around the world. He also enjoyed golfing, fishing, was a local Sierra Club member.

A Memorial Service celebrating Victor’s life will be held on Friday, October 12, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. Visitation will be held from 1-2 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Warm the Children.


Paul Clark Hughes
Chelsea MI

Age 65, passed away on October 3, 2018 at his home.

He was born January 19, 1953 the son of Paul and Jean (Clark) Brisbois. Paul married Arielle (Knapp) on December 3, 1976, and she survives along with their children Daniele (Harrison Niemann) Hughes, Trevor (Kathryn) Hughes. He is also survived by siblings Bryan (Thomma) Hughes, Robert (Leslie) Hughes, Angela (Herb) Blattenberger, Mark Brisbois, Scott Brisbois, and Karen Bornten; brother-in-law Lionel (Christine) Knapp; grandchildren Clay Hughes, and Logan McCormick; nieces and nephews Natalie Hughes, Charles Blattenberger, Katherine Hughes and Gaelle Netzer.

Also surviving is step-father Jerry Saalsaa. He was preceded in death by his grandmother Rose Clark, his adopted father Charles R. Hughes, his son Ian Hughes, and nephew Simon Knapp.

Paul enjoyed his friends and was known for his great sense of humor. He loved being with his kids and grandkids. He always provided for his family, and he was a great father, husband, brother and friend. Paul also served time in the Air Force in 1975-1978.

Funeral services will be held at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Thursday, October 11, 2018 at 6:00 p.m. with Daniele Hughes officiating. Visitation will be from 4-6 p.m. 

Contributions can be made to Mikey and Me Shelter or Delta Care Fund.


Deborah Evelyn Hill
Pleasant Lake, MI, formerly of Ida

Age 66, died Wednesday, October 3, 2018 at Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice Home in Jackson with her family at her side.

She was born January 7, 1952 in Toledo, Ohio, the daughter of Robert and Vada (Manor) Jasmund.

Deborah graduated from Ida High School in 1970. She worked for Lohr Tax Service, and upon his retirement, Deborah then started Hill’s Tax Service, which specialized in farm taxes.  She enjoyed helping the farmers of Ida.

In addition to the tax service, she operated Creative Page Designs custom printing. Deborah was a member of NATP (National Association of Tax Practitioners) and was a member of Main Street Church of Chelsea. She was choreographer for the Ida Marching Band color guard. For many years. Deborah was most proud to be a wife, mother and grandma.

On May 29, 1971, she married William Hill in Ida and he survives. Other survivors include a daughter, Jennifer (Joel) Underwood of Chelsea; a brother, Russell “Jim” (Donyce) Jasmund of Temperance; a sister-in-law, Valeri Jasmund of FL; 4 grandchildren, Kali Hill, Emilee Underwood, Zachary Underwood, and Cody Underwood. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Randall “Randy” and her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Margaret and George Hill.

The family would like to thank the staff of Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice Home.

The family will receive friends Thursday from 5-9 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.  Funeral services will be held Friday, October 5, 2018, 10:30 am at Cole Funeral Chapel, with Pastor Josh Kuck officiating.

Burial will be at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Jackson. Following the services, there will be a luncheon at Main Street Church in Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice Home.


Cass (Casey) Ketner

Cass (Casey) Ketner, 49, died unexpectedly September 13, 2018 during a brief illness.

His family and friends will miss his perseverance, wit and creativity, strong work ethic, and his love for language, cooking, comedy and nature. Even in the midst of life’s many challenges, his humor came through loud and clear.

His musical tastes and love for comedy spanned cultures, time periods and defied labels, favorites being Bob Marley, Janis Joplin, Hawaiian ukelele.

He earned a BA in Computer Science and MS from Boston University in Database Administration with an emphasis in security. There was almost nothing he couldn’t do with technology, and he was patient with family and friends as he tried to help them learn to use new technology.

He was an incredible carpenter, photographer and innovator. He could even reassemble most of the small appliances he took apart to fix, minus a spring or an extra screw or two.

His wry sense of humor brought a lot of joy to his friends and family. He had an unquenchable sense of adventure and lived his life to its fullest.

Casey was thoughtful, considerate, and complicated and overcame life’s many hurdles. May he be at peace now, free of pain.

Thank you to all who touched his spirit and colorful life with your friendship and love, or supported his efforts in whatever ways you could.

His family is heartbroken and he will be deeply missed forever. He leaves behind his mother, Annette Ketner, sister, Jamey (Colleen) Fitzpatrick, his father, Dewey Ketner, other family members, and close friends, Irene, Arash, Ralph and Dominic who shared his life. He is predeceased by Buz, Margaret, Lou, Arthur, Kristen, Carol, Leah and Ralph.

Services were already held for immediate family and close friends.

If you want to make a donation in his honor, he cared about the following organizations: Habitat for Humanity, Homeless Shelters, Humane Society, Turtle Island Restoration Network, Collie Rescue, World Wildlife Fund and educational scholarship support at any college.


Nancy Ellen Duncan
Dexter, MI

Age 65, passed away Friday, September 21, 2018 at Michigan Medicine with her family at her side.

She was born May 5, 1953 in Chelsea, Michigan, the daughter of Irwin George & Helen Agnes (Ulrich) Young.

Nancy was baptized at St. Mary Catholic Church and attended St. Mary School. She graduated from Chelsea High School in 1971. She had a grand champion steer at the Chelsea Fair. Nancy worked for Chrysler in Dexter, Adair Printing in Dexter, and Meijer on Jackson Road.

She always had a huge garden (both vegetables and flowers), and enjoyed her many pets. Nancy enjoyed canning, decorating, sewing, photography, and traveling. Nancy loved to fish from the dock. She was a “picker” who enjoyed auctions and flea markets. Most of all, Nancy loved being an imaginative grandma.

Survivors include her soul mate, Larry Wagner; her children, Jeremy (Melissa) Duncan, LeAnn (George) Lowe, Gena Duncan; and their father, Vernon Duncan Sr.; 11 grandchildren, Kyle, Alex, Jorja, Carson, Leanna, Sylvia, Ambrielle, Alyssa, Sophia, Breanna, and Travis; 2 sisters, Jean Haarer and Carol Walker; 2 brothers, Doug Young and Jack Young; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Jessica Coleman, a grandson, Christopher Duncan, a brother, David Young, and her parents.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, September 27, 11:00 am at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Rev. Stephen Bringardner officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends Wednesday 4-8 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to her family to help with funeral expenses.


Darlene B. Rose
Dexter, MI

Age 80, died unexpectedly Saturday, September 22, 2018 at the University of Michigan Hospital.

She was born August 11, 1938 in Milan, Michigan, the daughter of Robert & Eunice (Sylvester) Murphy.

Darlene lived in Dexter all of her life. She graduated from Dexter High School in 1956. Darlene worked for Thetford Corp., retiring after 25 years.

She was a lifetime member of St. Andrew’s Church in Dexter. Darlene enjoyed going up North to their cottage, and traveling to the UP. Her hobbies included sewing, canning, cooking and baking.

On September 19, 1959, she married Robert Rose at St. Andrews, and he survives. Other survivors include a daughter, Cheryl Masters of Dexter; and a granddaughter, Tina Masters of Dexter. She was preceded in death by her son, Jeffrey Allen Rose; her sister, Donna Jean Gregory; and her brother Terry Lee Murphy.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 29, 11:00 am at St. Andrew’s United Church of Christ, Dexter, with Rev. Kendall Brown officiating. Burial will follow at St. Andrew’s Cemetery, Dexter. The family will receive friends Saturday from 10-11 am.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Andrew’s United Church of Christ. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


David “Casey” Dayton Blair Jr
Chelsea, Michigan

David “Casey” Dayton Blair Jr., 63, gentleman, devoted husband, father, and friend was suddenly taken away from us Saturday September 15, 2018. In Casey’s professional life, it was the extended US Corporate tax deadline.

Casey cared most about people. Supportive and understanding, Casey had a deep-seated empathy always willing to share quick wit and a story around the fire, at home or in the community with a beer or glass of wine. Casey was the consummate story teller, but also an adept listener imparting a keen understanding when anyone needed advice or an opinion.

Casey, and his wife Cathy worked making their house a home. Beloved resident of Chelsea, Michigan, Casey was active in his community and supportive in his career at Thomson Reuters. Casey was an Eagle Scout throughout his life – exhibiting the same convictions of service and leadership. Casey cherished social activism, championed community music, and led neighborhood social block parties. Casey did nearly anything that could draw people together and he opened their house to many friends and family.

Loved by all but especially Cathy, 36 years of marriage; children, Sarah (Jared) and David; grandchildren, Benjamin and Luke; sister, Genie Ryan. Casey was preceded in death by his father, Dayton; mother, Barbara; and sister, Ruth Ann.

Services will be held at First Congregational United Church of Christ, 121 East Middle Street, Chelsea MI Friday at 4:00 PM. A celebration of life will follow at 5:00 PM at the Chelsea Depot, 125 Jackson Street.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Lost Voices, an organization dedicated to the hope and healing for troubled children (www.lostvoices.org), and Faith In Action, a community funded, faith-based assistance and resource center (www.faithinaction1.org).

We miss you Casey, Daddy, Pop Pop. We hear your voice in our hearts and can’t wait to tell you the stories yet to come.


Jerry Piatt, Major, USMC Ret
Chelsea, MI

Age 82, passed away Friday, September 14, 2018 at the Chelsea Retirement Community.

He was born March 30, 1936 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Kenneth R. & Harriet J. (Stofer) Piatt.

Jerry was a Naval Aviator who served in the US Marine Corps and Reserves from 1953 – 1983. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam and was awarded a Purple Heart for injuries sustained in combat. Jerry was a flight instructor at Pensacola Naval Air Station (Whiting Field) from 1968-70.

He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, and a scout leader in Cub Scout Pack 455 and Boy Scout Troop 476. Jerry was a loving grandfather. He could often be found sitting on the front porch with his dogs. Jerry enjoyed camping, going up North, and keeping in touch with his Marine Corp friends.

On Feb. 3, 1968, he married Patricia A. Blaznek in Chelsea, and she survives. Other survivors include one son, John Kenneth (Jenny) Piatt; two grandchildren, John B. and Avery Piatt, all of Chelsea; a sister, Phyllis Stepp of Howell; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his brother, Kenneth, and four sisters, Shirley Johnson, Betty Wahl, Mary Lou Brown, and Minnie Mae Erskine.

A Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, Sept. 19, 11:00 am at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, with the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating.  Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea.  The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Tuesday from 3-7 pm, and at the church from 10-11 am.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church or the Michigan Humane Society.


Sandra E. Ross
Ann Arbor, MI

Age 80, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, September 12, 2018 in Chelsea.

She was born May 1, 1938 in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the daughter of Harold Vincent & Irene Mary (Micheau) Sherrod.

Sandra graduated from Dexter High School in 1956, and went on to Cleary College. She worked at U of M while Ben completed his degree. Sandra attended Immanuel Bible Church. She volunteered at Chelsea Community Hospital for many years.

On July 13, 1957 she married Benjamin L. Ross at Dexter Gospel Church, and he survives. Other survivors include one daughter, Kathy Ammerman of Gwinn, MI; two sons, Tim (Alicia) of Chelsea and Dan of Lake; a brother, Ron (Ida) Sherrod of Hale; five grandchildren, Lindsey (Matt) Green, Ethan Ammerman, Matt Ross, Haylie Ross, Josh Ross;  and one niece and one nephew. She was preceded in death by a son, Don Ross, in 1994.

Funeral services will be held Monday, September 17, 1:00 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel, with Pastor Dominic Aquilino officiating.  Burial will follow at Vermont Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends Sunday from 1-4 pm.

Memorial contributions may be made to Immanuel Bible Church, 145 E Summit St, Chelsea, MI 48118.


Mary Lou Jury
Chelsea, MI

Age 98, died Saturday, September 1, 2018 at Chelsea Retirement Community.

She was born March 15, 1920 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Fred Palmer and Mary (Costello) Todd.

Mary Lou taught Church school, sang in the choir, led small exercise and discussion groups. She worked on many committees in the minister’s wives groups.  She worked for Blue Cross & Blue Shield and a library during her early life, then focused on being a mom and minister’s wife. She was active at Chelsea Retirement Community and volunteered in their Thrift Shop and Gift Shop.

On June 26, 1943, she married Rev. John S. Jury at the Metropolitan Methodist Church in Detroit, and he preceded her in death on Feb. 8, 2003. Survivors include two sons, Theodore John (Elaine) Jury of Utica, MI and Stephen Todd Jury of Flushing, MI; two grandchildren, Matthew and Andrew Jury of Denver, CO; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by five brothers, Stayton Todd, David F. Todd, J. Beecher Todd, Fred P. Todd, Jr., Wesley R. Todd.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, Sept 12, 10:30 am at Chelsea Retirement Community, Towsley Chapel, with Rev. Tina Zimmerman officiating. The family will greet friends from 10-10:30 am. Burial will be in the memorial garden of First United Methodist Church in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to the United Methodist Retirement Community Foundation.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Nadine Anderson

On May 18,1952, in Jamestown, New York, the world welcomed the 5th child of C. Duane Anderson and Doris (Peterson) Anderson, when Nadine A. Anderson joined her siblings on the farm on Palm Road.

She was unique from birth in many ways including a congenital heart condition that required pioneering repair surgery in 1962, when she was 10 years old. That surgery along with additional repairs in 2004 kept her heart beating until the early morning hours of August 24, 2018 in Saline, MI, when Nadine peacefully left this earthly plain.

Her final days were filled with family and friends showering her with their love and admiration for an amazing life well lived and well loved by all.

Gentle, kind and always smiling and giggling, Nadine lived her life respecting each and every person she met with grace and love. That might explain how she remained married to the same guy for nearly 44 years.  She married her “gorgeous” husband Robert (Bob) Pierce on a lark on December 7, 1974 in their wedding chapel AKA their first apartment at 901 E. Second Street in Jamestown, New York.

One of greatest moments in her life was when she and Bob brought their son Michael R. Pierce of Ann Arbor, MI into their lives in 1980. She treasured each moment they spent together especially in her final days as he held her hand and comforted her at her bedside.

Nadine’s love of family was the center to her life. She cherished spending time with Clair and Lucinda (Peterson) Anderson of Hanover, PA; Linda (Rechnagel) Anderson of Reno, NV; Jean and Bob Rahr of Nampa, ID; Valerie Pierce of Falconer, NY; Richard Pierce of Sugar Grove, PA; and Rose Marie Digirolamo of Jamestown, NY.

She deeply loved her many unique and talented nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews including Ashley Digirolamo of Jamestown, NY, who followed her into the precious career of public educator, and Amber (Matt) Littlefield of Jamestown, NY, who always took special care of her Aunt Nadine. Amber and Matt’s beautiful daughter Madeline brought great joy to Aunt Nadine when she could finally hold and kiss her in July of this year.

Also, Dale (Ed) Pierce of Huntersville, NC, Paul (Michelle Green) Anderson of Potomac, MD; David (Maria) Anderson of Los Angeles, CA.; Jon (Brooke) Anderson of Salem, OR.; Todd (Dina) Rahr of Lolo, MT; Craig (Lisa) Rahr of Monroe, WA.; and Jared Defigh of San Francisco, CA.

Nadine enjoyed her many cousins especially Charlane (Gary) Keziah of Charlotte, NC who was like a sister to her and her NASCAR buddies, Sandy (Doug) Kitts of North East, PA.

Nadine knew she would be reunited with the ones she loved who passed on during her time here. She joined her Father and Mother, her brother Bill Anderson and her beloved sister Sandra Anderson. Also waiting to greet her is her mischievous and loved brother-in-law Chuck Pierce and her wonderful sister-in-law Joann Pierce.

A lifelong educator, Nadine was an immensely proud graduate of the public education system in New York State. In 1970, she graduated from Falconer Central School. She received degrees from Jamestown Community College in 1972 and State University of New York College at Buffalo in 1979. She remained a tireless advocate for Public Schools throughout her life.

Alongside her lifelong partner Bob, she sought to take advantage of opportunities whenever and wherever they appeared. She began her teaching career in 1979 with Montgomery County Board of Mental Retardation in Dayton, OH. In 1982, she moved to Charlottesville, VA. There she taught special education at Jack Jouett Middle School for Albemarle County Schools. In 1989, she once again smiled and agreed to follow Bob to a new home in Vandalia, OH. There she taught special education at Troy City Schools. The next move in 1992 brought her to Chelsea, MI, where she taught special education and 3rd grade for Hanover Horton Schools. Exasperated and disillusioned by the direction of public education in the state of Michigan, Nadine retired from teaching in 2008.

She began a new career with Manpower of SE Michigan. Here she put all of her education skills to work as a staffing specialist. She often commented that getting a job for someone was of equal value to society as educating young people. Her time with the Manpower family was one of the bright lights in her life.

She eased into final retirement as Patient Care Coordinator at Ascent Audiology in Chelsea.

Along the way, Nadine always wanting to learn and experience new things. She joined with Bob to open Pierce’s Pastries Plus in Chelsea in 1997 where the experience of serving coffee, donuts and fun was a launching pad for goodwill and love for the people and community of Chelsea. It was during this time that the family decided to make Chelsea their permanent home.

Nadine was the inspiration for the creation of The Saturday Morning Challengers bowling program for Intellectual and Developmentally Delayed individuals. The program began in 1995 and has grown into a trusted community asset.

Reading was a passion she shared with family, students and friends. Music followed closely behind her love of the written word. She found great inspiration in songs and books that explored the human conditions of peace, love and joy. A proud child of the 60’s, she was a feminist and activist who maintained that equality of the sexes is paramount in a caring society. She often shared her frustration that she would be gone before America would elect a woman President.

The rare genetic disease, Erythropoietic Protoporphyria (EPP) that extinguished her bright light of life cannot overshadow the love she expressed for all she met. Always the educator, her heroic decision to move from this life was followed by her decision to share her body with the medical community so they could learn more about her disease.

As directed by Nadine, there will be a party held on September 15, 2018 from 4-7 p.m. at the Village Conference Center in Chelsea to celebrate all the goodness she brought to this world.

It was Nadine’s wish to designate Faith in Action as her charity of choice. Donations in Nadine’s name can be made to Faith in Action, 603 S. Main Street, Chelsea, MI 48118


Doris Staples
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Detroit

Doris Staples died peacefully Aug. 28, 2018 at the Chelsea Retirement Community (CRC).

The only child of George and Lena Tremlin, Doris was born on Feb. 15, 1922, in Pinconning, MI. Following the death of her father when she was 18 months old, Doris and her mother, a teacher, lived in Flint until Lena’s death in 1938, when Doris moved to Millington, MI to live with her grandmother Julia Egle and aunt Florence Egle.

As a teenager, Doris played piano and loved to dance. She dipped ice cream cones for 10 cents an hour at a local drug store and later, as part of America’s World War II effort, worked at a factory in Frankenmuth during summer breaks.

A graduate of Millington High School (1940) and Central Michigan College (1944), Doris taught second grade in the Saginaw Public Schools before marrying her classmate and World War II U.S. Army Air Force veteran John Staples in 1946. They moved to Detroit, where John worked as a police officer, and they raised their son John Jr. (Joanne Cwiklinski) of Clinton Township and daughter Mary Jo (Jeff ) Frank of Dexter.

Doris was devoted to her family. An accomplished homemaker, seamstress, gardener and excellent cook, she canned tomatoes, chili relish, pickles and other produce she and John grew in their backyard garden. She created many of her own clothes, knit mittens, hats and sweaters, and enjoyed painting ceramics and other crafts. She baked dozens of colorful cookies each year for her children’s school Christmas parties.

Following John’s death in 2002, Doris lived independently at CRC’s Dancey House from 2003 until 2016, when she moved to Glazier Commons assisted living. At various times, she volunteered in the CRC’s Heritage Museum and library and participated in domino and bingo games and exercise classes. An avid reader, she followed the Detroit Tigers and current events.

In addition to her children and their spouses, she is survived by grandsons Chris Frank (Jennifer Richards) and Jason Frank (Lucia Baez Carrera), great-grandchildren Abby and Ben, niece Joann (Monty) Burns, nephew Robert (Linda) Petrie, and several great nieces and nephews.

Her family would like to thank the CRC staff, Dr. Stephen Yarows at Chelsea Internal Medicine and Dr. Karen Musolf at Chelsea Family Practice for their contributions to Doris’ health and well-being, and Arbor Hospice for the compassionate care it provided during her last months.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 14 in the Towsley Village All Seasons Chapel. Visitation time with family is at 10 a.m.


Lorraine M. Periord
Dexter, Michigan

Passed away peacefully on August 27, 2018 after an extended illness.

She was born February 23, 1936 in Flint, Michigan to the late Rosalyn and Sylvester  Gumm.

She is survived by her loving husband of 64 years James Periord Sr., and her caring children Janet Hawkins, James Periord Jr. (Regina), Dave Periord, Steve Cagle, Connie McQuade (Tom), Dan Periord (Kathy), her daughter-in-law Jeanine Periord, her sister Elizabeth McDermitt, and brothers Tom (Lilly) and Bill Blackburn. Her son, Gary Periord and stepfather Neal Blackburn, proceed her in death. She was a devoted grandmother and will be greatly missed by Amanda, Josh (Krissy), Katie (Corey), Sandy (Mickey), Joe, Hannah, Lindsey, Abby, Natalie, Brandon (Madison) and Brittany, a special great grandmother to Addison, Kinsley, Deagan, Evelyn, Henry and River, and cherished aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Lorraine was proud of her career as a nurse with St. Joseph Mercy Health, where she provided tender care for hundreds of patients. After retirement, she found much satisfaction volunteering for Faith in Action in Chelsea. A lifelong learner, Lorraine enjoyed programs through the Chelsea Adult Learner Institute and Chelsea Senior Center, and made many wonderful friends at The Pines in Chelsea. She will be greatly missed.

A visitation is scheduled for Thursday, August 30 from 5 to 8 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with a Vigil Service at 7:30 pm. A Mass in celebration of her life will take place at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea on Friday, August 31 at 11:00 am.

Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Chelsea Senior Citizens or Faith in Action.


Paul E. “Bud” Hankerd
Chelsea, MI

Age 82, died Friday, August 24, 2018 at the Chelsea Retirement Community.

He was born September 6, 1935 in Chelsea, Michigan, the son of Emmett Matthew & Oleta (Hutzel) Hankerd.

Bud graduated from Chelsea High School in 1953. He worked for his dad as a young boy until his late 20’s. Bud was a member of the Chelsea Fire Department for over 50 years, and was Chief for 13 years. He retired from Dana Corporation.  Bud was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church and Knights of Columbus.

He enjoyed cutting and splitting wood, woodworking, and was famous for snow removal for the whole neighborhood.

On Sept.10, 1955, he married Jeanette Mae Bertke in Chelsea, and she preceded him in death on Dec. 7, 2001. Survivors include a son, Emmett Matthew “Matt” (Rosemary) Hankerd of Chelsea; two daughters, Lou Ann Hankerd and Cheryl (Doug) Pagliarini, both of Chelsea; 8 grandchildren, Dan Kloosterman, Sean & Mike Hankerd, Patrick, Alexis and Derek Jolly, Stephen Hunert and Samantha Pagliarini; and 3 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Sr. Helen Hankerd, OP of Chelsea, Theresa (David) Scharphorn of Chelsea, Mary Houle of Chelsea, Eileen Brooks of Jackson, Rose Anne Salvante of Florida.

The Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, August 28, 11:00 am at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Monday from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm and at the church Tuesday 10-11 am.

A private burial will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church (14200 Old US 12, Chelsea, MI 48118) or Arbor Hospice (2366 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48103).

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Alice Marie Colombo
April 15, 1937 – August 10, 2018

Alice Marie Colombo (known to most of her friends as Marie, to her children and grandchildren as Mama Bear) passed away peacefully in her sleep on the morning of August 10th, 2018 in her home in Traverse City, Michigan. She was 81.

She had battled Parkinson’s disease for the better part of the last 10 years, and did so with as much poise as someone could. Her perpetual optimism for life allowed her to live in the moment, and see the bright side of everything, which she taught us all in life and death is the best way to live.

She was born Alice Marie Autio on April 15, 1937 in Stambaugh, Michigan to parents Wilbert Autio and Edith Lund Autio. She was an only child but had many cats and kittens, as well as close cousins with whom she grew up, playing together on her grandfather’s farm in Iron River, Michigan. Her time growing up in the upper peninsula of Michigan gave her a great appreciation for nature and living in the woods.

Marie graduated from Iron River High School in 1955 and attended college at Michigan State University. She graduated in 1959 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Science and pursued a career in Medical Technology. A few years after graduating, while working in Southeast Michigan, she met Lou Colombo through mutual friends, and they married (1963) and started a life together.

They had three children, Kevin, Paula and Sharon, and settled soon after (1971) in Chelsea, Michigan, building a house just outside of town on a piece of property that allowed the entire family to appreciate nature.

Marie decided to stay home with her kids while they were little, and spent many days gardening in the summer, and in the winter, cross country skiing, baking and sewing (everything in sight, even the kids’ first swim suits!) and generally making their life comfortable, and always fun. Sharon remembers waking up from naps as a child to the sound of the sewing machine – that sound will always remind her of her mom. Keeping them all company through those years was their beloved black lab, Gus, as well as their sweet kitty cats, Muff and Bernard.

They made many lifelong friendships in Chelsea. Marie was always involved in the kids’ activities, as a room mother, or troop leader. They spent many years with their swim team, where Marie was involved in many aspects of the club, organizing, running and scoring many swim meets. She was friends with everyone – the parents, the coaches, and the kids. From Sharon: “She was always there when we swam fast or slow, supporting us and finding the fun in every event. Laughter was always the best medicine. She encouraged us, but never pushed, and taught us to make our own goals and work towards them on our own terms. In this regard, and so many others, she was the best mom.”

As the kids grew up, Marie eventually returned to work part-time as a Medical Technologist at Foote Hospital in Jackson, Michigan. She enjoyed the friendships she formed there, as well as being back at work and using her degree.

In 1996, after the kids were grown, Lou and Marie divorced, but always remained friends. Marie retired to Northern Wisconsin and built a beautiful retreat in the woods. She formed many close friends in that community with whom she has always stayed connected.

She enjoyed being close to her roots, just an hour or so from where she grew up. During these years, she returned to her love of painting, knitting, weaving and various other artistic endeavors. In her heart, Marie was an artist and craftswoman. She could knit or sew, literally anything, and did so with abandon. Her family and friends weathered many cold Midwestern winters wearing her creations (hats, sweaters, and many pairs of mittens). She also sold a lot of her art on consignment in various shops throughout Northern Michigan and Wisconsin over the years. Her kids will cherish many of these creations now, more than ever. During these years, Marie adopted two loving cats, Basil and Julius, who were her companions until just last year, when they preceded her across the rainbow bridge.

In 2007, Marie, Basil, and Julius decided to move back to Northern Michigan to be closer to Paula and her husband Curt, and their children, Drew and Reese. She settled once again, in the woods, in a lovely home she helped to design. She was once featured in the Cedar Valley Ridge News, her neighborhood newsletter.

She enjoyed many years there being close to her grandsons, with whom she loved to watch and discuss college sports. She also spent time hiking and snowshoeing out her back door, as well as painting and knitting many works of art.

While Marie knew how to be happy just about anywhere (so long as she could visit with friends and family over coffee or a beer), she did do some traveling which she very much enjoyed. Of note, she twice visited Scandinavia, once with her cousin Elaine, and once with Paula and Kevin to revisit her ancestral home and visit some cousins. She traveled often with Kevin on adventures around the west and southwest, as well as to visit him at his home in Chicago. She also made annual and sometimes semi-annual trips to see Sharon on the West Coast in Northern California, and more recently, Portland, Oregon. She especially enjoyed her visits with the most recent additions to the family, Sharon and her husband Pete’s twin daughters, Greta and Ursula (her bear namesake), who both want to grow up to be artists like their grandma.

Marie will always be remembered as a bright, funny, no-nonsense mama bear who was a friend to all. She will be missed every day and held tightly in our hearts. Goodnight bear, we love you.

Marie was preceded in death by her mother Edith Lund Autio (1907 – 1976) and her father Wilbert Autio (1907 – 1962), as well as several cousins, aunts and uncles. She is survived by her son Kevin Colombo of Chicago, Illinois, her daughter Paula Colombo and son-in-law Curtis Cummins and their children Drew and Reese Cummins of Traverse City, Michigan, and her daughter Sharon Colombo and son-in-law Pete Dahlgren, and their daughters Greta and Ursula Dahlgren of Portland, Oregon. She is also survived by several cousins, nieces, nephews and many dear friends.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice. Please contribute your favorite memories of Marie in our guestbook if you’d like.


Howard William Bauer
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 91, died unexpectedly Friday, August 17, 2018 at his home.

He was born March 27, 1927 in Ypsilanti, Michigan, the son of Clarence Carl and Ethel (Schock) Bauer.

Howard lived in Chelsea for 30 years, coming from Ypsilanti.  He retired from Ford Motor Company in Ypsilanti. Howard was a long-time member of Tri-County Sportsman’s Club in Saline. He loved to visit with everyone he saw.

Survivors include a special cousin, Linda (Craig) Sayers, and their son Brian of Chelsea; his sister, Alice Dickerson of NE; his sister-in-law LaDonna Bauer of Ann Arbor; many nieces and nephews, Jackie, David, Tom, Jill Ann, Donna, Diane, Karen, John, and Kay. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Gaylord and Norman; and special cousin Margaret Bauer.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, August 21, 11:00 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Pastor Keith Worrell officiating. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery, Saline.

The family will receive friends Monday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Tri-County Sportsman’s Club or Chelsea Baseball.


Thomas Matthew Ford
Dexter, Michigan

Age 86, passed away on August 10, 2018, at the Cedars of Dexter.

He was born September 11, 1931 in Cambridge, Ohio, the son of H. Barton and Grace (Mathews) Ford.

Tom was raised in Battle Creek, MI. He attended Michigan State University and received his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1957 with a M.S. degree in 1959. Tom entered the United States Air Force flight training program in 1953 and was part of the class 55K and the Veterinary Corps.

In 1964, he became part of the University of Michigan Animal Care Unit and was granted Diplomate in Laboratory Animal Medicine status. Soon after he was hired by Abbott Laboratories in North Chicago, IL to be Manager of Animal Care and remained there until his retirement in 1995. Tom enjoyed flying, sports, and military history. He was an avid tennis player his entire life and played actively until his death.

In 1959, he married Hedwig “Heidi” Geiger, and she survives. Other survivors include a son, James M. Ford of California; a daughter, Elizabeth A. (Andy) Wolber of Ann Arbor; a granddaughter, Katie Wolber; a sister, Barbara (Roger) Miller; one niece, and two nephews.

Interment will be in Lake Forest, IL and services are private.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Robert W. Couch
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Birmingham, Royal Oak, and Spring Hill, FL

Age 99, died Saturday, August 4, 2018 at the Chelsea Retirement Community.

He was born November 25, 1918 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Walter and Grace (Arnold) Couch.

Robert graduated from Cass Tech High School with Highest Honors in the science curriculum. After high school, he graduated from Wayne State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry.

Robert worked as a research chemist for M&T Chemical, American CAN, DOW Chemical, and Union Carbide. Robert then became the Plant Manager for Henkel Corporation in Detroit. He has been a member of the American Chemical Society for 75 years.

While living in Florida, he was a tutor in math for the GED program at Spring Hill Schools. Robert was also an AARP safe driving instructor for 15 years in Florida. He was involved in Boy Scouts for 23 years in the Detroit Area Council.

On August 1, 1942 he married Janelle A. (Egge) Couch, and she preceded him in death in 2014. He is survived by his son, Keith (Libby) Couch of Brighton; a brother, Larry Couch; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death his daughter, Rev. Dr. Joanne Bartelt; two brothers, John and William Couch; and a sister, Harriette Sample.

No memorial services will be held.

A private burial will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery, Detroit.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Chemical Society, ACS Development Office Seed Program, 1155 Sixteenth St. NW, Washington, DC 20036.


Gordon D. Campbell

There will be one less funny fellow telling stories at the kitchen table.

Lymphoma may have claimed his life at 87, but laughter is his lasting legacy.

This “all around nice guy” grew from a grinning red-headed boy born in New Albany, IN to serve in the Air Force and then settle down as an optician at Monfried Optical in Lexington, KY with his wife, Betty. They joyously adopted their daughter, Pam, and Gordon raised her with the motto, “Go to college and be sure to get a job!”

Widowed in 1976, he rediscovered his joy in flying by owning a Cessna. He started his own business, Southland Optical. He loved being “Poppy” to Emily and Rosie, nearly wearing out I-75 driving to Chelsea, MI to visit. After a stint at Simpson Optical, he retired to Chelsea. He joined his son-in-law, Paul, in his quest of growing lots and LOTS of trees. He was an early morning fixture at McDonalds, enjoying breakfast with friends.

His ashes will be buried in the Campbell family plot in New Albany in 2019 at a family reunion to celebrate the lives of Gordon and his six siblings. Date/time TBD.

Memorial contributions can be made to Yankee Air Museum (c/o to Yankee Air Museum, however, please mail contributions to Cole Funeral Chapel, 214 East Middle Street, Chelsea, MI 48118).


George John Severin
of Ann Arbor, Michigan

Age 91, died Thursday, July 26, 2018 at Hillside Terrace, Ann Arbor.

He was born January 22, 1927 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of George and Ethel Severin.

George was a WWII veteran, serving in the Navy. He was a member of the Bethel Lutheran Church in St. Clair Shores, Michigan.

On November 9, 1951 he married Rhea Hayes in Detroit, Michigan, and she preceded him in death on November 19, 2006. Survivors include a son, John (Mary Lou) Severin of Gregory, MI; a daughter, Jane (Paul) Severin-Dirkse of Northville, MI; 4 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a sister, Elaine Adams.

A private service will be held at a later date.

George donated his body to the University of Michigan medical school and will later be interred at White Chapel, Troy.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Leslie Sloat
Manchester, MI

Age 49, died Friday, July 27, 2018 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital Ann Arbor.

She was born September 5, 1968 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of James and Diana (Culp) Sloat.

Leslie graduated from Manchester High School in 1986. She went to school to become a medical assistant. Leslie enjoyed providing home health care for several elderly people in Manchester. She was compassionate, patient, and empathetic to everyone she cared for.

She loved to read, and most importantly spend time with her family. Leslie had a contagious laugh, great sense of humor, and bright smile. Leslie was always willing to support anyone in need and lend a helping hand. She had a strong spiritual belief. She was a loving mother to her children, a devoted daughter, a beloved sister, and a loving spouse. She also loved spending time with her nieces and nephews.

She is survived by her mother, Diana of Manchester; her life partner, Jeff Petsch; her children, Ashley (Jacob Satterla) Sloat and Evan Petsch of Manchester; a brother, Jamie Sloat; 3 sisters, Lisa (Pat) Ridenour, Shannon (Matt) Romanoski, Marci (Duane) Hopkins; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, James Sloat.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 4, 2018, at 12:00 pm at the Manchester United Methodist Church, with a luncheon to follow. The family will receive friends at the church from 10 am to 12:00 pm before the funeral.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Beverly A. Farley
Munith, MI

Age 80, passed away Tuesday, July 24, 2018, surrounded by her family after a long battle with ovarian cancer.

She was born December 3, 1937 in Munith, Michigan, the daughter of Phillip and Lillian Rose (Hokanson) Burmis.

In 1955, Beverly graduated from Chelsea High School. She married James Brown in 1955. Beverly worked at Chelsea Milling for 30 years. She was a great mother, sister, grandma, and great-grandmother. Everyone who came into contact with her loved her. She’ll be greatly missed by her friends and family.

On April 6, 1995, she married L. Norman Farley, and he preceded her in death on December 25, 2014. She is survived by her sister, Carol (Leo) McCrum; two children, Cindy Brown of Chelsea, Timothy Brown of Munith; 9 grandchildren, Mike (Tiffany) Smith, Susan (Marcus) Maddock, Heather Rodema, Amanda Brown, Amanda (Brandon) Hall, Kayla Brown, Rebecca Brown, Ashleigh Boss, Eric (Jamie) Boss, Timmy Cole Jr.; 14 great-grandchildren, Michelle, Michael, Joshua, Lilly, and Victoria Smith, Jame Darnell, Xavier, James, and Skylur Boss; a sister-in-law Rose Mary Brown; numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by 2 children, James Brown and Lori Brown.

Funeral services will be held Monday, July 30, 1 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Rev. Jeff Crowder officiating. Burial will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends Monday 11-1 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.


Glendon F. Geer Sr.
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 91, died Tuesday, July 24, 2018 in his home.

He was born July 21, 1927 in Howell, Michigan, the son of Herbert and Hazel (Stewart) Geer.

Glen attended Howell High School. He was a WWII veteran, serving with the Army Medics. Glen worked at Hackney Hardware in Dexter for many years. He was a member of the Grass Lake VFW Post 10194, and was a member of St. Andrews United Church of Christ in Dexter.

Glen was a long-time square dance caller in the area. He was an avid Euchre player, and loved to bowl.

On November 14, 1998, he married Betty Silverthorn Kline, and she survives. He is also survived by his children, Diana (Roger) Wallace, Glendon F. Geer Jr., Michael J. (Cyndi) Geer, Robin M. Vontom; his step-daughters, Kathy Kline, Jan (Tom) Lee, Cheryl Allward, Susan (Brendan) Leonard; 23 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Marion Sulkowski-Geer; his brothers, Wayne, Melborn, and Victor; his sister, Doretha Parham, and a granddaughter.

Funeral services will be held Friday, July 27, 11:00 a.m. at St. Andrews UCC, Dexter, with Rev. Kendall Brown officiating. Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery, Dexter.

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

Memorial contributions may be made to Arbor Hospice or the family.


Luke Jethro Heydlauff

Age 2, passed away peacefully at home on July 16, 2018, with his parents, Jeff and Kate Heydlauff at his side.

Luke’s all too brief time on earth was surrounded by and epitomized by love.  Luke was born in Kampala, Uganda, on October 16, 2015. His birth mother, Winnie, not only brought him into this world but loved him enough to place him under the care of the Nafasi Orphanage.  It was there that he received wonderful care from people who truly were the hands and feet of God.

At their church on Adoption Sunday in November 2015, Jeff and Kate began the roller coaster experience associated with many international adoptions.  Even in these initial months, the Heydlauffs experienced the love of both countless friends and strangers. In June of 2016, Jeff and Kate traveled one more time to Uganda to bring Luke home to his forever family.

Luke was a happy, smiling child from the beginning. In fact, his smile was described as “contagious,” “one that lights up the world” and “big enough to fill any room.” Luke’s big, brown eyes didn’t miss a trick.  He learned to trust, with an understandable amount of trepidation, the many people who cared for and loved him unconditionally. Not only was he discerning, but Luke was a smart, gentle, kind, and most of all an extremely polite soul.

Luke was diagnosed with Pulmonary Alveolar Microlithiasis, which led to many visits to Mott Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He was the bravest hero through countless hospital appointments, procedures, tests, and admissions.

In June 2017, the Heydlauff family moved to Cincinnati, Ohio for Luke to be listed for a lung transplant. In October 2017 at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, Luke received a double lung transplant.  The family was able to return to Traverse City this past June. Luke maneuvered this journey with grace. He loved his parents, played with his siblings, listened to music and savored his Goldfish crackers and potato chips.

God doesn’t give you the people you want.  He gives you the people you need. People who will help you, hurt you, leave you, love you and make you the person you were meant to be.  Those who knew Luke will forever reflect the difference he made in their lives.

Luke’s family includes his parents, Jeff and Kate Heydlauff, his siblings, Charlotte and Jack, and his grandparents Mark and Amy Heydlauff and Rob and Cindy Pocock.  Luke is also loved by his great grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and many, many special friends.

A visitation for friends to share in the Heydlauffs’ grief will be held at Sojourn Church, 1027 McRae Hill Road, Traverse City, Michigan 49685, on Friday, July 20, from 5:00 to 7:00.

A kid-focused celebration of Luke’s life, designed to be kid-centric will be held at Sojourn at 10:00 on Saturday, July 21.

People who wish to remember Luke with a memorial contribution are asked to consider The Luke Heydlauff Fund for Children held at the Utopia Foundation to support and foster an awareness of the needs of children everywhere and promote health, education, and happiness among youth in Uganda and the world.  This fund will reflect the many ways Luke’s time with us showed the difference one person can make; the joy, pain, beauty, and fulfillment that comes from unconditional love.

Donations to the Luke Heydlauff Fund for Children may be mailed to Utopia Foundation, 111 Cass Street, Traverse City, MI 49684 or online at www.utopiafound.org.

The Heydlauff family is unable to fully express how grateful they are for the love they have received from countless friends and the many health care providers in Traverse City, Ann Arbor and Cincinnati.  Luke’s legacy will be fully realized as we share God’s love with others.

Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your memories and condolences with Luke’s family on his tribute page.

The family is being cared for by the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.


William James Darwin Sr.
Waterloo, MI, formerly of Ann Arbor and Garden City

Age 81, passed away Wednesday, July 4, 2018 in his home.

He was born February 11, 1937 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of LeRoy F. and Helen (Glushyn) Darwin.

Bill graduated from Ann Arbor High School in 1955. He was a member of Waterloo Village United Methodist Church where he was a trustee and active in the building program and development of the Fellowship Hall. Bill was an active Realtor since 1986.

Bill enjoyed gardening, croquet, morel hunting, and they hosted many large family gatherings.

On August 25, 1956, he married JoAnne M. Ramsey at Westside Methodist Church in Ann Arbor, and she survives. Other survivors include two sons, Bill (Marsi) Darwin II of Waterloo, Andrew (Christina) Darwin of Ann Arbor; three daughters, Rebecca Darwin of Ann Arbor, Lizabeth Darwin of Ann Arbor, Melanie (Tim) Zurlinden of Pinckney; a daughter-in-law, Brenda Darwin; his brother, LeRoy (Sue)Darwin of Ann Arbor; 16 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews, and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Arnold Darwin, and two children, Brian Darwin 2009 and Amy Isadora Darwin 2010.

Funeral services will be held Monday, July 9, 7:00 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Rev. Merlin Pratt officiating. The family will receive friends Monday from 3-7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to JoAnne Darwin, c/o Cole Funeral Chapel.


Earl Robert Hughes Jr.
Chelsea, MI

Age 69, died Monday, June 25, 2018 at his home.

He was born September 18, 1948 in Frostburg, Maryland, the son of Earl Robert and Thelma May (Winebrenner) Hughes.

Earl attended Chelsea High School, and was a US Navy veteran. Earl worked for the Washtenaw County Road Commission for 32 years and retired as a Foreman. Earl was a friend of Waterloo Village United Methodist Church. He enjoyed feeding birds, hunting, fishing, and playing poker. Earl loved making moonshine, cooking, and spending time with his grandkids.

On February 28, 1971, he married Nancy Dyson in Chelsea, and she survives.  Other survivors include two children, Tracy (Frank) White of Brooklyn, Christine (Todd) Mason of Grass Lake; one brother, Brian E. (Lori) Hughes of Gregory; two sisters, Ellagean (Randy) King of Security, MD, Joline (James) Reed of Security, MD; 4 grandchildren, Jessica (Kyle) Holstine, Breanna White, Jacob Earl White, Charity White; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Grace White; and his parents.

A memorial service will be held Friday, June 29, 6:00 pm at Waterloo Village United Methodist Church, with Pastor Mary Barrett officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea VFW Post 4076.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


James Richard Line
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 85, died Sunday, June 24, 2018 in South Lyon.

He was born February 19, 1933 in Island View, Lakeview, Ohio, the son of Ralph and Dorothy (Fike) Line.

He graduated from Waynesfield High School in Ohio and attended Ohio Northern University. He was a welder, machinest, and toolmaker all his life, as well as an Army veteran. He served in Hanau, Germany from 1953-1955.

Jim loved antique tractors, steam engines, and stationary engines. Mechanically he was very skilled and creative and was always willing to help his neighbors by repairing farm equipment or design some new innovative solution.

Above all, Jim loved his family, and especially his grandchildren.  For many years, Jim faithfully attended the First United Methodist Church in Chelsea.

On July 25, 1953, he married Marilyn J. Cummings at New Hampshire, Ohio, and Jim was a devoted husband and loving caring caretaker. Marilyn preceded him in death in 2009.

Survivors include a daughter, Jennifer “Dawn” Line of Grass Lake; a son, Roderick (Barbara) Line of South Lyon; 4 grandchildren, Jared (Leslie) Wacker, Jennifer “Shevaun” (Jason) Atlee, Nathan “Nate” Line, Shannon Line; 3 great- grandchildren, Colin, Elizabeth “Libby”, and Bradley “Bo”; and a brother, Rex (Nevelyn) Line.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 30, 1:00 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Rev. Jeff Ford officiating.

Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery in Waterloo. The family will receive friends Saturday from 11 am -1 pm.

Memorial contributions may be made to the MDS Foundation, The MDS Foundation, 4573 South Broad St., Suite 150, Yardville, NJ 08620.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Richard K. Borton, DDS

Died June 22, 2018

Rich died peacefully at a Hospice near his home in Venice, FL with family at his side. He was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia in 2017 and recently became acutely ill with congestive heart failure.

Rich was born December 2, 1938 in Hudson, MI, son of Ruth and Noel Borton. He attended Ypsilanti schools and Eastern Michigan University. Following his graduation from the University of Michigan Dental School in 1964 and two years in the Air Force, he practiced dentistry in Chelsea for 34 years.

After retirement in 2000, he moved to Elk Rapids, MI and spent winters at his home in Venice FL.

Rich loved his family, his friends, his children’s friends and his patients.  His fondest memories were of hosting parties and dinners, family vacations with as many kids as he could pack into a van, and hunting and fishing with his buddies. He traveled to many places, loved the outdoors and was an avid reader.

Rich was a Chelsea Village councilman for four years and a former member of Kiwanis, Chelsea Rod and Gun Club and St. Paul United Church of Christ.

Rich is survived by Rose, his wife of 37 years, and their blended family of children and grandchildren including:  Kelli Borton Anderson (Greg) and Xan, Kwon and Grace Anderson, Emma Adams Horn (Jody) and  Riley and Aidan Horn, all of Colorado; Tod Borton (Pam), Kyle and Carlie Borton of Chelsea and Josh Borton of Indianapolis; Tracy Borton Plauche (Skip) and Reese Plauche of Jupiter, Florida; Jennifer Borton and son, Jack Butcko of Saline; Kate Dilworth (Maria Webster) and Chase Rose Dilworth of Portland, Oregon; Molly Dilworth of NYC; and Kim Moore (Jan Fredrickson) of Colorado.

Rich’s survivors also include: sisters Barb Borton, Ruth Ann Cochran (Gene), Cheryl Urban (Mark) and numerous nieces and nephews; his former wife Diane Alexander; and former exchange student Ketil “Kate” Vaas of Oslo, Norway.

A Friday night gathering commemorating Rich’s life will be held August 17, 2018 at Inverness Country Club, 13893 N. Territorial Road, Chelsea, MI 48118, 5:00-9:00 p.m.


Michael George Erlacher
Inkster, MI, formerly of Lincoln Park, MI.

Age 65, died Saturday, June 30, 2018 at Garden City Hospital.

He was born June 30, 1953 in Michigan, and grew up in Dearborn Heights, Michigan. He was a son of George William and Mary Jo (Schmidt) Erlacher.

Michael grew up attending the Episcopalian Church and graduated from Aquinas High School in Southgate in 1971, where he excelled on the swim team. His love for water carried over into adulthood. He enjoyed swimming any chance he could get and often did so at the YMCA, campgrounds and water parks around Michigan with his family.

He raised his two daughters in Lincoln Park where his wife grew up and had family close by. After 30 years, he retired from General Motors at the Willow Run plant in Ypsilanti. During his career, Michael was active in the Union as a Union Steward. He was passionate about making sure everyone was treated fairly and equally in the workplace. He even participated in a few marches such as the Detroit Free Press Strike.

Michael was a kind, giving and understanding soul. He believed that everyone deserved a second chance and often times he would give someone else the last dollar he had. Michael was artistic and creative. He always thought outside the box.

When his daughters were growing up, he liked to help them with their science experiments and encouraged them to be creative, too. He had a great sense of humor and was easy going. Michael was quick to laugh at life’s nuances and find the silver lining in most situations. When his oldest daughter had a car accident just days after getting her license, he was not mad at all, just happy she was okay. He appreciated the simple things in life and forgave easily.

In March of 1983, he married Debra “Debbie” Ciotti in Ann Arbor, and she preceded him in death on March 6, 2015. Survivors include 2 daughters, Nicole (William “Will” James) Erlacher of Honolulu, Hawai’i, Michelle (Dave) Porter of Commerce City, Colorado; 1 granddaughter, Brianna Autumn; a brother, John (Marilyn Likins) Erlacher of Salt Lake City, Utah; two sisters, Mary (Jack) Phelps of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Kathy (Marc) Morhous of Dexter, Michigan; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of Michael’s life will be held Sunday, July 8, 2018, from 2-4 p.m. at the Garden City Park located at 150 Pavilion Road. Burial at Woodmere Cemetery, Detroit, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to Carrie Arnold (Homes/Treatment Center) LLC, 995 N. Pontiac Trail #801 Walled Lake, MI 48390.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Earl Robert Hughes Jr.
Chelsea, MI

Age 69, died Monday, June 25, 2018 at his home.

He was born September 18, 1948 in Frostburg, Maryland, the son of Earl Robert and Thelma May (Winebrenner) Hughes.

Earl attended Chelsea High School, and was a US Navy veteran. Earl worked for the Washtenaw County Road Commission for 32 years and retired as a Foreman. Earl was a friend of Waterloo Village United Methodist Church. He enjoyed feeding birds, hunting, fishing, and playing poker. Earl loved making moonshine, cooking, and spending time with his grandkids.

On February 28, 1971, he married Nancy Dyson in Chelsea, and she survives.  Other survivors include two children, Tracy (Frank) White of Brooklyn, Christine (Todd) Mason of Grass Lake; one brother, Brian E. (Lori) Hughes of Gregory; two sisters, Ellagean (Randy) King of Security, MD, Joline (James) Reed of Security, MD; 4 grandchildren, Jessica (Kyle) Holstine, Breanna White, Jacob Earl White, Charity White; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Grace White; and his parents.

A memorial service will be held Friday, June 29, 6:00 pm at Waterloo Village United Methodist Church, with Pastor Mary Barrett officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea VFW Post 4076.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


James Richard Line
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 85, died Sunday, June 24, 2018 in South Lyon.

He was born February 19, 1933 in Island View, Lakeview, Ohio, the son of Ralph and Dorothy (Fike) Line.

He graduated from Waynesfield High School in Ohio and attended Ohio Northern University. He was a welder, machinest, and toolmaker all his life, as well as an Army veteran. He served in Hanau, Germany from 1953-1955.

Jim loved antique tractors, steam engines, and stationary engines. Mechanically he was very skilled and creative and was always willing to help his neighbors by repairing farm equipment or design some new innovative solution.

Above all, Jim loved his family, and especially his grandchildren.  For many years, Jim faithfully attended the First United Methodist Church in Chelsea.

On July 25, 1953, he married Marilyn J. Cummings at New Hampshire, Ohio, and Jim was a devoted husband and loving caring caretaker. Marilyn preceded him in death in 2009.

Survivors include a daughter, Jennifer “Dawn” Line of Grass Lake; a son, Roderick (Barbara) Line of South Lyon; 4 grandchildren, Jared (Leslie) Wacker, Jennifer “Shevaun” (Jason) Atlee, Nathan “Nate” Line, Shannon Line; 3 great- grandchildren, Colin, Elizabeth “Libby”, and Bradley “Bo”; and a brother, Rex (Nevelyn) Line.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 30, 1:00 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Rev. Jeff Ford officiating.

Burial will follow at Mount Hope Cemetery in Waterloo. The family will receive friends Saturday from 11 am -1 pm. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the MDS Foundation, The MDS Foundation, 4573 South Broad St., Suite 150, Yardville, NJ 08620.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Ronald Henry Kraska
Dexter, MI

Age 83, died Wednesday, June 20, 2018 at Chelsea Retirement Community.

He was born October 31, 1934 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Matthew and Ann (Wilczynski) Kraska.

Ron attended Ford Trade School and worked 40 years with Ford Motor Company. He loved fishing and hunting. Ron enjoyed spending his time at his cottage on Halfmoon lake.

In 1959, he married Katherine Hendricks, and she preceded him in death in 1986. On February 6, 1988, Ron married Patricia O’Hagan, and she survives.  Other survivors include his son, Mark Kraska, daughter, Victoria (Neil) Lezotte of Garden City; step-children, Kevin (Anne) O’Hagan of Lincoln Park, James (Beth) O’Hagan of Livonia, Christine (James) Davis of NC; brother, Ed (Nancy) Kraska of Waterford; grandson, Patrick Lezotte; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a sister, Sandra Austin.

A funeral mass will be held Tuesday, July 3, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, Michigan with the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to UMRC Foundation, 805 W. Middle St, Chelsea, MI 48118.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.


Mary Ann Barill
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 91, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 21, 2018 with her family at her side.

She was born April 14, 1927 in Osage, West Virginia, the daughter of John and Antionette (Barberio) Scotchell.

Mary grew up in Star City, WV, the youngest of 7 children. She was an avid Tigers and Red Wings fan. Mary loved St. Mary Church and loved to play bingo. She had many friends at The Pines, and her friends and her grandchildren were the focus of her life.

Survivors include a daughter, Mary Jo (Joe) Sinelli of Brighton; a son, Samuel (Dawn) Barill of Mars, PA; a sister, Jeanette Marra of Star City, WV; 4 grandchildren, Andrew, Tony, Lauren, Randi; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Samuel Barill; and 5 of her siblings, Russell, Joseph, Frank, Louis, and Antonio.

A Funeral Mass will be held Monday, June 25, 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea.

A private burial will take place at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Southfield, Michigan.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel on Sunday from 3-7 p.m., and at the church from 10-11 a.m. on Monday.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church of Chelsea, or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.


Anita Frances Pateck
Chelsea, MI, formerly of Ann Arbor

Age 101, died Monday, June 18, 2018 at the Chelsea Retirement Community.

She was born August 9, 1916 in Festus, Missouri, the daughter of Stephen Andrew and Carrie Louise (Bradley) Boyer.

Anita loved playing cards and bingo, reading magazines, crossword puzzles, watching television, and getting her hair and nails done. Her son-in-law, John Patoros, took care of her in his home for many years until her later years after losing his wife.

Anita loved living in her retirement home, Chelsea Retirement Community. The residents and staff were just wonderful to her. She was a kind-hearted lady and will be missed by all.

Survivors include her four grandchildren, John S (Lori) Patoros of California, Jerret L. Patoros of Ann Arbor, Mary A. Patoros of Ann Arbor, and Dianna (Tom) Cok of Pinckney; two great-grandchildren, Briana (Evan) Johnson, Nelson Michael (Pam) Guenther; 4 nephews, and 2 nieces. She was preceded in death by her husband Charles Pateck; a daughter, Patricia Patoros; a son-in-law, John Patoros; 2 sisters, May and Barbara.

No funeral services will be held. Burial will be at Bethlehem Cemetery in Ann Arbor.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Nels R. Mickelson Jr.
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Ypsilanti

Age 78, went to be with the Lord Friday, June 15, 2018 at Chelsea Retirement Community.

He was born September 13, 1939 in Adrian, MI, the son of Nels R. Mickelson Sr., and Helen L. (Stage) Mickelson.

Nels attended the Chelsea Free Methodist Church. He was a Life Member of the Masons. Nels owned a grocery store in Rawsonville, MI, and later worked as a drywall finisher. He lettered in many sports in High School, and later enjoyed watching sports, especially football and basketball. Nels loved the outdoors and hunting. Later in life, he became an avid reader.

On April 8, 1961, he married Edna E. Hudson at Forest Ave Baptist Church in Ypsilanti, and she survives. Other survivors include their children; Nels Walter “Wally” Mickelson of South Lyon, Karen Elizabeth (Mark) Bogarin of Chelsea, Kristen Carol (Ray) Rickman of Chelsea; 7 grandchildren, Jacob, Jonah, Hailey, Bryce, Natalie, Jillian, and Mackenzie; a sister; Carol L (Don) Bragg; a sister-in-law, Suzanne Mickelson; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Robert G. Mickelson.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, June 21, 4:00 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with visitation Thursday from 2-4 pm.  Burial will be at Palestine Church Cemetery in Paris, TN.

Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Free Methodist Church or the Huron Valley Humane Society.


Viola Eleanor Welshans
Chelsea, MI

Age 93, died Wednesday, June 13, 2018 at the Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born April 22, 1925 in Roseville, MI, the daughter of Carl F. and Meta E. (Schuldt) Schoenberg.

Viola graduated from Eastland High School in Roseville in 1944. She worked for 11 years for Briggs, which became Chrysler. She has been a member of St. Jacob Evangelical Lutheran Church in Grass Lake since 1955, and belonged to WINGS (“Women in God’s Service”) mission group at church.

Most of all, Viola was a loving mother to her four children.

On June 18, 1955, she married Raymond C. Welshans in Macomb Township, MI, and he preceded her in death on January 8, 1988. Survivors include two sons, Douglas (Robin) Welshans of Ann Arbor, Timothy (Deanne) Welshans of Dexter; two daughters, Cynthia (Bradley) Fischer of Dexter, Sandra (Kenneth) Valentine of Pinckney; a brothers-in-law, William Welshans; 12 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother, Carl Schoenberg; a sister, Eleanor Inwood a sister-in-law, Jean Bailey; and a brother-in-law, Donald Welshans.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 16, 11:00 am at St. Jacob Evangelical Lutheran Church in Grass Lake, with Pastor Kurt Uhlenbrauck officiating. Burial will follow at St. Jacob Cemetery.

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

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jacob Evangelical Lutheran Church,12501 Riethmiller Road, Grass Lake, MI 49201.


Robert Peter Houle
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 93, died Monday, June 11, 2018 at Brittany Manor in Midland.

He was born November 18, 1924 in Escanaba, Michigan, the son of Peter F. and Lillian A. (Benette) Houle.

Bob was the 5th of 7 siblings. He served in the US Army during WWII, and was a POW, earning 3 Bronze Battle Stars. Bob became a Millwright/Electrician for Rockwell International, and retired from there. He was very devout in his faith. Bob was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church; the Franciscan Third Order for several years, and the Knights of Columbus.

He toured the Midwest with the Shroud of Turin. Bob was President and caretaker of Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea for many years. He loved fly-fishing, camping, golfing, and enjoyed watching his grandchildren play sports.

On January 20, 1948, he married Colleen T. Rappette in Gladstone, MI, and she survives. Other survivors include four sons, Gary (Liz) of Ann Arbor, Rodney (Kathy) of Mississippi, Anthony (Cathy) of South Lyon, and Kevin (Mary) of Midland; two daughters-in-law, Annette and Rachel; 12 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by two sons, Daniel and Lynn, and all of his siblings, Al, Gladys, Reynold, Donald, Irving, and Raymond.

A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, June 15, 11:00 am at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating.  Burial with military honors will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Thursday from 6-8 p.m. with a Rosary at 8 p.m., and at the church Friday 10-11 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church, 14200 E Old US Hwy 12, Chelsea, MI 48118, St. Louis Center, 16195 W Old US Hwy 12, Chelsea, MI 48118, or the Alzheimer’s Association, 25200 Telegraph Road, Suite 100, Southfield, MI 48033.


Ronald Carl Lorenzen
of Grass Lake, MI, formerly of Chelsea

Age 79, died Friday, June 8, 2018 at Henry Ford Allegiance in Jackson, Michigan.

He was born February 16, 1939 in Dearborn, MI, the son of Harry Paul and Cynthia (Daugherty)  Lorenzen.

Ron served in the US Army as a cook from 1961-63. He retired from the Chelsea Post Office after 25 years. He loved working in his yard, which he took a lot of pride in. Ron enjoyed playing cards with his friends and family.

On July 22, 1961, he married Ava L. Bulson in Plymouth, Michigan, and she preceded him in death on June 15, 1995. On July 1, 1997, he married Jeannene Marie Rowe in Toledo, Ohio, and she preceded him in death on December 18, 2014. Survivors include two children, Ronald P. (Linda) Lorenzen of White Lake, MI; Sheila Lorenzen of Grass Lake; 3 grandchildren, Robert Lorenzen, Alisha Lorenzen-Brooks, Amber Lorenzen; 7 great-grandchildren; a brother, Tony Lorenzen of TN; a sister, Joan (Joe) Santoro of TN; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister, Barb Perry.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel on Tuesday, June 12, from 3-5 and 7-9 p.m.

Private burial will take place at Vermont Cemetery in Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 20450 Civic Center Dr, Southfield, MI 48076.


Jack Tower Anderson
of Chelsea

Age 61, passed away on June 7, 2018 in Ann Arbor, MI surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on January 6, 1957 in Lansing, MI the son of David and Edythe (Tower) Anderson. On May 3, 1980 he married Kathy Hopkins, and she survives. He is also survived by his children Chad Anderson of Grass Lake, and Kelly Anderson of Farmington, mother-in-law Inez Hopkins in Chelsea, brother and sister-in-law Garry (Nancy) Hopkins, two nephews Todd and Scott Hopkins, and extended family Vonda “Skip” Huck, and Ken (Cindy) Beauchamp. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his father-in-law Silas Hopkins.

Jack had worked for the Cedars of Dexter where he was a maintenance foreman and appreciated taking care of anyone’s needs. He enjoyed history, and loved traveling and classic rock, and going to the beach.

Private graveside services will be held at Oak Grove East Cemetery at a later date.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Jackson Humane Society or the University of Michigan Cancer Center.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.


Armilla A. “Jo” Reule
Chelsea, MI

Age 106, passed away peacefully Sunday, May 20, 2018 in her home.

She was born March 28, 1912 in Cloverdale, Ohio, the daughter of Joseph and Frances (Langhals) Wolff.  Jo resided in Chelsea or the Chelsea area for 103 of her 106 years of life.

On March 10, 1931, she married William (Bill) R. Reule. During WWII she was a Rosie the Riveter at Federal Screw Works. She was an active member in the South Sylvan Extension Club and served as a judge for many food and craft categories at the Monroe and Chelsea Community Fairs. She and Bill shared a love of reading. They read 2 newspapers cover to cover daily and, at 106, Jo was still reading her favorite Westerns. They were avid gardeners well into their 80’s, growing vegetables from seed to harvest then sharing the bounty with family and friends. Jo enjoyed canning, cooking and baking. She was always making something, if she wasn’t in the garden or cooking, she was working on projects like basket weaving, copper tooling, china painting and so much more.

One of Jo’s greatest passions was Chelsea Senior Citizens. She was the third member to join the group and worked tirelessly to create a place for seniors to gather to meet old friends and make new ones, to provide meals, create a program for arts and crafts and opportunities to travel the country. In 2000, she was honored to be the Senior Queen of the Chelsea Community Fair.

Jo will be remembered for her zest for life and dedication to her husband, family and friends. We will always remember her beautiful oil paintings and especially the delicious pies and cookies she made for all of us through the years.

Jo was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill, grandson, William Drummond, her parents, 6 brothers and 3 sisters. She is survived by her daughter, Roslyn Drummond-Freed of Williamsburg, MI; 2 grandchildren, Walter Drummond II and Dawn Shields; 5 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; nieces and nephews.

A private service was held at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Senior Citizens, 512 Washington St., Chelsea, MI 48118.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.


Mildred Myra Huehl
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 91, passed away peacefully in her home in Chelsea on Thursday, May 24, 2018.

She was born August 5, 1926 in Manchester, Michigan to Clyde and Hazel (Barnes) Gieske.

Mildred graduated from Manchester High School as Valedictorian and attended Ypsilanti Normal College (EMU) obtaining a teaching certificate. She taught school in several one-room school houses in the Manchester area. She has maintained contact and a friendship with many of her original students throughout her years.

On August 21, 1954 she married Earl Conrad Huehl and lived at the homestead farm on Fletcher Road. Mildred has been a life-long member of Sharon United Methodist Church holding many leadership positions, but most noted for her many years as a Sunday School Teacher. She was an active member of the Rogers Corners Farm Bureau and Women’s Extension groups. Mildred also volunteered her time to the Chelsea Senior Center. In her leisure time, Mildred enjoyed needlework projects, gardening, and playing cards or games with her many friends, family and neighbors.

She was always available to help her friends and neighbors tackle projects or lend a helping hand. She retired from Unit Packaging in Ann Arbor.

She is survived by her two sons, Dennis and Carol (Clark) and Gerald “Jerry” and Susan (Dowhal) all of Chelsea; 5 grandchildren, Kate and Derek Huffman of Novi, Robert and Melany Huehl of Chelsea, Stephanie and Adam Little of Alma, Thomas and Heather Huehl and Nicholas Huehl of Chelsea; along with her 5 great-grandchildren, Connor and Emma Huffman, David and Penelope Little, and Amelia Huehl.

She was preceded in death by her husband Earl on March 30, 1972, her parents, Clyde and Hazel, and her much loved and missed sister and brother-in-law Marian and Lynn Voegeding.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 26, Noon, at Sharon United Methodist Church in Manchester with Pastor Peter Harris officiating. Burial will follow at Rowes Corner Cemetery in Manchester. The family will receive friends at the church social hall on Friday, 2-5 p.m. and 6-9 p.m., and Saturday at the church from 10-12 p.m.

Donations in her memory may be made to Sharon United Methodist Church Memorial Fund or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Julie Ann (Eschelbach) Bolgos
Pinckney, MI, formerly of Ann Arbor

Age 68, died Monday, May 21, 2018 in her home.

She was born February 6, 1950 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Neil Alfred and Mary J. (Thurow) Eschelbach.

Julie graduated from Ann Arbor High School in 1968. On September 12, 1970, she married the love of her life, William Jeffrey Bolgos in Ann Arbor. He preceded her in death on October 26, 2008. Julie and Jeff lived in Virginia Beach, Virginia and Clearwater, Florida before returning to Ann Arbor to raise their daughters.

Julie was a voracious reader and news watcher, known for her phenomenal memory and arcane knowledge about any number of subjects. She loved the outdoors and when not working on a landscaping project or doing some sort of household cleaning or maintenance she enjoyed spending her days on the lake or thumping friends and family in horseshoes and cornhole.

Julie considered herself to be shy and one of her greatest traits was to create an environment that made everyone comfortable. No matter where they lived, Jeff and Julie had a stop by, open door policy in their home for family, friends, neighbors and their children’s friends. Julie was a great listener and a loyal friend and the home she created was one of comfort and solace to anyone who came by. Her wisdom, wit, strength and loyalty will be missed by many.

Julie is survived by her daughters, Jessica Pantano of Pinckney, and Johanna (Aaron) Andersen of Manchester; siblings James (Linda) Eschelbach, Patricia (Michael) Staebler, Dr. Michael (Emily) Eschelbach; sisters-in law Gale (Tom) Godfrey and Linda Bolgos; two grandchildren, Grace and Ivan Andersen; and beloved nieces and nephews Chad (Courtney) Godfrey, Alicia (Barry) Haith,  Corey Parker, Christi (Jim) Johnston, Julie (Mike) Wolber, James (Stephanie) Eschelbach, Scott Eschelbach, Ashley (Chris) Whitt, Leigha (Tim Rezaie) Staebler, Dr. Elizabeth (Alec) Wollensak, David Eschelbach, Abby (Derek) Lorenzen and Susan Eschelbach.

The family will receive visitors at Cole Funeral Chapel on Wednesday, May 30 from 3-8 p.m. A private service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Laughing Duck, Inc., 8789 McGregor Road, Pinckney, MI 48169.


Sandra Ann Brown
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 77, died Friday, May 18, 2018 at Arbor Hospice Residence.

She was born July 7, 1940 in Herkimer, New York, the daughter of Ziggy and Vera (Vespi) Cwalenski.

Sandra was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church of Chelsea. She worked as a legal secretary for McLaughlin Law Firm for 28 years. Sandra was a member and past president of the Chelsea Jaycees/Jaycettes. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and aunt.

Sandra enjoyed spending time with her family. She loved reading, keeping in touch with her friends through Facebook, and following her grandchildren in sports and daily activities. Sandra was an avid fan of U of M football and their marching band.

On October 17, 1959, she married Walter Brown in Little Falls, New York, and he survives. She is also survived by a son, Walter James Brown III of Chelsea; three daughters, Linda Marie Mollison of Ft. Myers, FL, Katherine Ann (John) Scott of Chelsea, Pamela Ann (Todd Ferry) Brown of Chelsea; a sister-in-law, Johan Greene; 8 grandchildren, Anthony Mollison, Ryan Scott, Shawn (Crystal) Scott, Joe Scott, Maddie Kemp, Chase Kemp, Carly Ferry, Hunter Ferry; 2 great-grandchildren, Theodore Scott, Riley Scott; a niece, Deborah (Joe) Green; a nephew, Shawn (Alycia) Spraker; and grand-niece and nephew, Sawyer and Evelyn Spraker. She was preceded in death by her parents, and a sister, Barbara Spraker-Angelicchio.

A celebration of Sandra’s life will be Sunday, June 3, from 2-5 p.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, 14200 E Old US Hwy 12, Chelsea, MI 48118, in the social hall. Private burial will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Athletic Boosters.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Marshall F. Carr
of Chelsea

Passed away May 15, 2018 after a short illness.

Born February 14, 1933 in Louellen, KY to Nathan and Willie Mae (McClendon) Carr, the eldest of five children.

He is survived by his wife, Janice; children, Marshall Jr., Marsa W. Garcia and Mary G. Davis; two sisters, Genene Meeks and Mary Frances (Harold) Hall, and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place.

A private memorial will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.


Dean Frederick Fox
Ann Arbor, MI

Age 73, went to be home with Jesus, his Lord and Savior, on Thursday, May 17, 2018, following a two-year courageous battle with cancer.

He was born December 12, 1944 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Robert Edison and Mildred (Steyer) Fox. On May 31, 1969 he married Christel Johnson of Princeton, New Jersey, and was a loving and faithful husband and father.

Mr. Fox accepted Christ as his Savior as a child and was a long-time member of Dexter Gospel Church where he served on the Welcome Team, as well as assisting with Daily Vacation Bible School.

He was an Eagle Scout at the age of 13 and graduated from Grosse Pointe High School. He received an MBA degree in Accounting from the University of Michigan. Mr. Fox was a US Army veteran and served in Vietnam in 1970 and 1971. He was a CPA, having passed the exam on his first attempt. After working as a CPA for five years with a Big 4 CPA firm, he joined a predecessor of CitiMortgage. He retired from CitiMortgage, Farmington Hills, in 2000 as a Corporate Vice President. He previously served as Director of Audit and Controller.

During his 25 years in mortgage banking, he was selected to be chairman of several committees of the Mortgage Bankers Association of America, and he was a member of the Governor’s Michigan Efficiency Task Force in 1976. Mr. Fox enjoyed traveling and visited all 50 states and more than 50 countries. While a college student, he was an exchange student to France. He also enjoyed playing golf with his family.

He is survived by Christel, his wife of nearly 49 years, their twin sons, David Fox of Ann Arbor and Peter (Deena) Fox of Southfield, his brother Robert E. Fox II, nephew Rob (Alena) Fox, niece Heather (Rodney) Williams, and cousins Christine (Jim) Profeta, Wayne Steyer, Rick (Kathy) Fox, Jim (Cathy) Fox, Tom Fox, and Linda Bauer.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 26, at 11:00 am at Dexter Gospel Church with Pastor Dan Robelen officiating. The family will receive friends on Friday, May 25, 5:00-9:00 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea and on Saturday, May 26, 10:00-11:00 at Dexter Gospel Church. A luncheon will follow the service.

A private burial will be held at Harwick Cemetery, a family cemetery in Mattawan, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Dexter Gospel Church, 2253 Baker Road, Dexter, MI 48130.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Dale L. Maurer
Chelsea, MI, formerly of Dover, OH

Age 83, passed away Thursday, May 17, 2018 at his home in The Pines.

He was born April 15, 1935 in Dover, OH, the son of A. Frank and Hazel (Henderson) Maurer.

Dale was a member of St. Johns United Church of Christ in Dover, OH. He was a United States Army Veteran, who served in Germany as a Spec 4 at the Headquarter Company 6 Transportation Battalion. Dale was a member of the Masonic F and AM Lodge 57 in Dover, receiving his 32nd Degree from Valley of Canton, OH.

He worked for Firestone Tire for 30 years, and then for Dexter Schools for 15 years. Dale volunteered at the Chelsea Community Hospital for over 6,000 hours.

On July 8, 1967, he married Eleanor Brock at the Trinity United Church of Christ in Wooster, OH, and she survives. Other survivors include a son, Timothy (Jessica) Maurer of Columbus, OH; a daughter, Elizabeth Maurer of Alexandria, VA; two sisters, Mabel Maurer of Dover, OH, Marlyn (Chuck) Schroder of Candor, NY; five grandchildren; and many nephews, nieces, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, MI on Thursday, May 24 from 7-9 p.m. A Masonic service will be held Saturday, May 26, 1:30 p.m. at Toland-Herzig Funeral Home in Dover, OH.

Burial with military honors will follow at Dover Burial Park, Dover, OH.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Mercy Hospital – Chelsea Cancer Center, 775 S. Main Street, Chelsea Michigan 48118.


Richard “Dick” Loftis
Jackson, Michigan

Age 66, died Sunday, May 13, 2018 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor. He was born February 27, 1952 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of John H. and Audrey (Harris) Loftis.

Dick was a member of the Stockbridge High School class of 1970. He worked at Central Fiber, QED Environmental Systems, and in many aspects as a handyman, in lawn care, and in the building trades until he had a major stroke 13 years ago. He was an active member of Chelsea First Congregational Church, where he helped with the building and grounds, and enjoyed visiting with the congregation.

Dick loved people, and church was one of the highlights of his week. He loved spending time outdoors, including hunting, fishing and attending gun shows. Dick also liked American history, war movies, and woodworking.

On June 10, 1978, he married Nancy Hepburn in Gregory, and she survives.  Other survivors include his mother, Audrey Loftis of Pinckney; his children, Michael of Chelsea, Damon (Melissa) of Clinton, Kristy (Phillip) Pinter of Ida; one sister, Linda Loftis of Pinckney; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father in February, 2007, and his brother, David Loftis.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 17, noon, at First Congregational Church, 121 E Middle St, Chelsea, MI 48118, with Pastor Joe Jeffreys officiating.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel on Wednesday, 5-8 p.m., and at the church from 11 a.m.-noon before the funeral.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to his family or the First Congregational Church of Chelsea.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Annberta Margaret Gasieski
Jackson, Michigan

Age 84, died Friday, May 11, 2018 at home.

She was born April 8, 1934 in Wood-Ridge, New Jersey, the daughter of Lambert H. and Mary F. (Benz) Keull.

Annberta graduated from Poughkeepsie High School in New York. She was a homemaker and raised 4 children. Annberta attended St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea from 1977-1989 before moving to Alpena.

Ann loved her family more than anything. She was a dedicated Roman Catholic who lived life to the fullest. She enjoyed gardening, bird watching, crocheting, knitting, and cooking. Her health did not stop her from roller skating, riding bikes, and traveling to Alaska. She loved to read and embraced everyone she met.

On July 22, 1956, Annberta married Edward “Ed” Gasieski, and he survives. Other survivors include 4 children, Daniel (Dawn) Gasieski of Livonia, Steven (Cathy) Gasieski of Chelsea, Mark (Sue) Gasieski of Stockbridge, Lizbeth (Rick) Balzer of Ocala, Florida; 9 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by 2 sisters, Sister Mary Lambert Keull and Viola Rogers.

Her Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, May 15, 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea with the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Monday, May 14, 4-8 p.m. and at the church Tuesday 10-11 a.m. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Franciscan Sisters of Allegany, 115 East Main Street, Allegany, NY 14706.


Lynne Ellen Marxson
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 78, died Wednesday, May 9, 2018 while in the loving care of Arbor Hospice Residence, Saline, MI.

She was born December 19, 1939 in Crawfordsville, Indiana, the daughter of Fred R. Marxson and Mary Margaret (Andrew) Marxson.

Lynne was retired from ATT and from her work at several churches as church secretary. Lynne lived at the Chelsea Retirement Community and attended church services there.

Survivors include one sister, Mariemma (Robert) Yousey of Gregory; brother Phillip (Sonnie) Marxson of Brookville, OH; nephews Robert Munker of Northville, Samuel (Holly) Munker of Dexter, Ernest (Shawntay) Munker of Farmington Hills; nieces, Lisa (Todd) Fetters of Huntington, IN, Kristen (Rick) Matzke of Englewood, OH; also survived by several great nieces and nephews. Lynne was predeceased by one nephew, Michael Frederick Marxson, Huntington, IN.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 9, at 11:00 a.m. at the Main Chapel at Chelsea Retirement Community with Rev. Tina Zimmerman officiating. 

In lieu of Flowers, please make contributions to Arbor Hospice 2366 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, MI  48103.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Clarence “Glenn” Erskine
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Moran, MI

Age 94, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 9, 2018 at his home.

He was born July 26, 1923 in Allenville, Michigan, the son of John and Violet (Ringler) Erskine.

Glenn graduated from St. Ignace High School in 1942. He served in the Army from 1943-46. Glenn was an auto mechanic and driver for Chrysler for 20 years. After his retirement, Glenn and Minnie moved to Moran, MI, and returned to Chelsea in 2013.

Glenn was an avid sportsman who loved hunting and fishing. He was a member of the Sault Ste Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians.

On Oct. 16, 1948, he married Minnie M. Piatt in Toledo, and she preceded him in death on Oct. 4, 2015. 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; his brother, Vern of Moran, MI; his sister, Laraine Wiggins of Newberry, MI; and several nieces and nephews.

No memorial services are planned. Burial will take place in Brevort Cemetery, Brevort, MI.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, or the American Heart Association.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Larry V. Gonyer
Manchester, MI

Age 82, died unexpectedly Friday, May 4, 2018 at his home.

He was born September 9, 1935 in Erie Township, Monroe, Michigan, the son of Raphael “Ray” and Mary Louise (Browne) Gonyer.

Larry graduated from Manchester High School in 1954. He joined the Marines in 1954-1956. Larry worked for the Ford dealership in Manchester for 35 years and managed their body shop. He enjoyed working on cars during his retirement, including a 1957 Ford Retractable and 1968 Mustang.

Larry was a member of the International Ford Retractable Club Michigan/Ontario Chapter. He also liked woodworking and enjoyed auctions and antiquing.

On June 14, 1958, he married Elizabeth Annie Oates in Manchester, and she survives. Other survivors include four children, Lynn Gonyer of Manchester, Mark D. (Brenda) Gonyer of Kalamazoo, Lori (Daniel) Capal of North Platte, Nebraska, Robb (Amy) Gonyer of Davenport, Iowa; 1 brother, Conrad Gonyer; 1 sister, Delores (Jim) Bauer; 9 grandchildren, Stephen, Jeffrey, and Megan Capal; Sarah, Rebekah, Matthew, Andrew, Josiah, and Joshua Gonyer; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Ronald Gonyer; sister, Barbra Frey; and Uncle, Conrad Browne.

Memorial services will be held Tuesday, May 8, 11:00 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, Michigan with Rev. Ron Clark officiating.  Private burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery, in Manchester. The family will receive friends Tuesday, May 8, from 9 a.m. until the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Manchester Public Schools.


John Warren Eisenbeiser
June 17, 1940-April 25, 2018

Born to Warren and Caroline (Konkle) Eisenbeiser. John was preceded in death by his wife Bonnie (Sheren) Eisenbeiser and sister Sue.

Surviving children are James, Sam (Karen) and Lucy (Paul) Beauchamp; grandchildren Rillian and Max Eisenbeiser, Josephine and Xavier Beauchamp; Brother William (Sharleen).

John graduated from Chelsea High School and M.S.U. with a degree in Animal Husbandry. Happiest outdoors, he worked most of his life as a builder and landscaper around Chelsea.

Donations in memory of John Eisenbeiser may be made to St. Louis Center, 16195 Old U.S. 12, Chelsea, MI 48118


Richard “Dick” Bouton
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Harbor Springs, MI

Age 80, passed away peacefully Friday, April 27, 2018 at his home, surrounded by his family.

He was born February 12, 1938 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Franklyn Loomis and Helen (Hartwell) Bouton.

Dick graduated from Cranbrook High School in 1957. He studied architecture, then art, at the University of Michigan. Dick taught art at Southfield High School.

He earned a degree in education and became a counselor in Lake Orion in 1975, then went into administration and was principal at Waldon Middle School in Lake Orion and at Harbor Springs High School from 1991-1996. He belonged to Chi Psi U of M Fraternity. Dick was a long-time member and Clerk of Session at First Presbyterian Church in Harbor Springs.

A professional sailor on Scaramouche, Dick did many long distance ocean races, as well as sail on the Great Lakes and compete in numerous Mackinac races. His passions were sailing, woodworking, building boats, driving fun cars and of course his family. Dick loved the University of Michigan, especially Michigan football.

On July 8, 1978, he married Sally Marie Penette, and she survives. Other survivors include a son, Adam of Ferndale; and a daughter, Robin (Harrison) Buberniak of Temperance; a sister, Mary (Bob) Howe of Grosse Ile; and he was a doting “Papa” to his granddaughter, Cora Buberniak. He was preceded in death by an infant brother, Tommy Bouton.

There will be two celebrations of Dick’s life at a later time, one in Harbor Springs and one in Grosse Ile. Memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation, with the hopes of finding the cure Dick was so optimistic about. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.

“He is now up in the ocean in the sky where the wind blows free and you always sail eased sheets.”


Betty Marshall
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 98, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 27, 2018 at her apartment at Silver Maples Retirement Community in Chelsea, Michigan.

She was born on April 15, 1920 in Cleveland, Ohio to Hilma (Wieck) and John Henry Rowse. She graduated from Shaw High School in Cleveland in 1938. On October 1, 1940 she married Harry Robert Marshall and they were married fifty-one years until Harry’s death in 1991.

Betty worked in her younger years at the F.W. Woolworth Company in Cleveland, Ohio and then for Black Industries also in Cleveland, a machine shop making machined parts for the war effort during WWII.

After time off to raise her family she entered the work force again, first working in retail sales for the Higbee Department Stores in Cleveland and then later as a Supervisor for Ardac, Inc. in Eastlake, Ohio as a line supervisor making money changing equipment, where she retired from in 1999 at the age of 79. 

Betty loved to travel and traveled extensively visiting such places as Tahiti, Fiji, Australia, New Zealand, England, Scandinavia, and other places around the globe with her daughter Karen. She also traveled with her son and daughter-in-law to Hong Kong, the Cayman Islands, Hawaii, and to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, where she loved to watch the massive freighters on Lake Superior.

Betty always enjoyed trips including ones to Minnesota and the West Coast where she could spend time with her daughter, son-in-law, grandsons, and later with the grandsons’ families including her two great grandchildren. Trips to Las Vegas were also favorite activities for Betty including one trip with her family to celebrate her 75th birthday.

Really anywhere there was a casino there she was happy.

She spent many summers helping her parents run a tourist resort of 10 cabins in Port Elgin, Ontario, Canada, which she also provided wonderful summer vacations for her children and nieces Debbie and Penny, creating for all, wonderful lifelong memories. 

At age 90, she moved to Silver Maples Retirement Community from Kirtland, Ohio where she had lived for 44 years.

She was a wonderful in all her roles as wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, grandmother, great grandmother, friend, and honorary Grandma Betty to many.   She was a sincerely compassionate, independent and giving woman who was always interested in others and their needs and willing to help anyone she could.   She was absolutely adored by the staff and caregivers at Silver Maples and Arbor Hospice, who took wonderful care of her.

A joyous 98th birthday celebration was recently held for her at Silver Maples and it was obvious that Betty was loved by many. She also loved to have visits from all of her grand dogs, six of them over many years, most recently Bella and Nugget who were with her when she passed. All the grand dogs loved Grandma immensely and their visits gave her great joy and comfort.

She is survived by her son:  Paul (Barbara) Marshall of Chelsea, Michigan; daughter:  Karen (Tom) Kempke of Northfield, Minnesota; grandsons:  Chris (Lisa) Kempke of Albany, Oregon and Sean (Ivy) Kempke of Duluth, Minnesota; niece:  Debbie (Richard) Bass of Gates Mills, Ohio and many other friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brothers: Bud and Bob, and son Roger who died at age 8 of leukemia.

One of Betty’s greatest joys was to know that the type of leukemia that took Roger now has a very high cure rate. She always said she wanted to live long enough to see this and she did.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 1, 2018 from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Nie Family Funeral Home, 3767 West Liberty Road, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48103.

The funeral service will be held Wednesday, May 2, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home with visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Burial will take place in Mayfield Heights, Ohio on Thursday, May 3, 2018 at 12:00 Noon at Acacia Park Cemetery, 1880 SOM Center Road.

In lieu of flowers memorials are per Betty’s request, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to one of the following charities:

St. Jude Children Research Hospital, P.O. Box 50, Memphis, Tennessee 38101-9929

Arbor Hospice, 2366 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48103

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162. (734) 384-5185.

Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.


Rev. James Simmons
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Ann Arbor

Age 90, passed away peacefully at his home in CRC (Chelsea Retirement Community) on Tuesday, April 24th, 2018.

James, the loving husband of Charlotte Graves Wint Simmons, was born to George James and Florence Ella (McPhearson) Simmons on March 28,1928 in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

James is survived by his loving wife Charlotte, who he married 68 years ago in Ann Arbor. He is also survived by his three daughters Mary (Brian) Hughes of White Lake, Judi (Richard) Trenton of Roscommon, and Pamela Simmons of Ypsilanti: eight grandchildren Brie (Matthew) LaLone, Cheryl Taylor, Erin (Ben) Stevenson, Melissa Trenton, (fiance Todd Hohauser), Rachel (Brandon) Evans, Matthew Garza and 8 1/2 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and younger brother, Wayne.

James life work focused on serving others. He served his country in the US Navy at the end of World War II. This service was followed by many years as a minister for the Detroit Conference of the United Methodist Church. He served many communities including, Clinton, Ferndale, Highland, Carleton, Linden, Weston, Hartland, and Willoughby Hills, Ohio. James served Adrian College as a reference librarian. He was Chaplin for CRC, and served as Archivist for the United Methodist Church Detroit Conference.

After James and Charlotte moved to CRC, he was asked to serve as CRC’s librarian. He and his wife valued serving their community through numerous charities and causes including Meals on Wheels and LEAHC (Lenawee Emergency and Affordable Housing Corporation). He was active in the Rotary Club and received several honors including the Adrian College Alumni Service Award which he was co-awarded with Charlotte, and the J.A. Baughman Church History Award.

A memorial service will be held in his honor, Thursday, May 3rd at 3:00 p.m. It will be held in the Chelsea Retirement Community Chapel with Reverend Tom Macaulay and Reverend Tina Zimmerman officiating.

All are welcome to come and celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to UMRC (United Methodist Retirement Community) Foundation or to the Chelsea United Methodist Church.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Donald L. O’Dell
of Chelsea, MI

Age 84, passed away on Saturday, April 21, 2018 at St. Joseph Mercy Chelsea Hospital.

He was born October 15, 1933 in McGuffey, Ohio the son of William and Maude (Minix) O’Dell.

Don lived in Chelsea his entire life. He proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corp during the Korean War and remained active as a life member of the American Legion Herbert J. McKune Post 31, also serving as Post Commander. If you’ve ever noticed the American flags marking the Veteran’s graves at the local cemeteries, Don was the one who ensured that every Veteran was honored with a flag marker.

He participated in countless parades and was honored in 2006 as Chelsea Citizen of the Year. He worked as a driver/mechanic for Chrysler Proving Grounds for 30 years, retiring in 1985. He also worked part time for Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home. He had a cottage north of Manistee where he enjoyed deer hunting. He also enjoyed golfing and was a life member of the Chelsea Rod and Gun Club as well as the Masonic Lodge # 156.

On May 13, 1962 he married Margaret M. Stapish, and she survives. Also surviving are one sister Joanne Moore of Chelsea, nieces and nephews: Mike Moore, William Moore, Karen Moore, Maria Stapish, Thomas Pawlowski, and Sherri Nadeau. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother-in-law Robert Moore, and sister-in-law Helen Stapish.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, April 25, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea with Rev. Kathy Schell officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday, April 24, 2018 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. as well as Wednesday from noon until the hour of service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion Herbert J. McKune Post 31 or Faith in Action.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.


Sheridan W. Springer

Age 83, of North Lake/Dexter Township, MI, passed away at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ypsilanti, MI on April 20, 2018.

He was surrounded by his loving wife and daughters.

Sheridan was born on June 30, 1934, in Ann Arbor, MI, the son of Walter W. and Ruth (Forshee) Springer. Sheridan was raised in Ann Arbor. He met Sallie Wilson, his wife to be, when he was 11 years old at Slauson Junior High School. They were high school sweethearts at Ann Arbor High School and were married on August 31, 1954.

Sheridan graduated from the University of Michigan with his business administration degree in 1956. He served as a commissioned officer in the United States Army from 1956-1958 in Frankfort, Germany. Sheridan and Sallie raised their family in Ann Arbor until 1976, when they relocated to North Lake where they currently reside.

Sheridan joined his father Walt, in the family business, Springer Insurance Agency, later Springer-Kleinschmidt Agency in Ann Arbor. He purchased a second insurance agency in Chelsea in 1975, which he sold in January 2016. He was a licensed insurance agent for 59 years.

Sheridan was active in many community service endeavors. He served on the Ann Arbor Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, as President of the Ann Arbor Insurance Association, President of the Chelsea Chamber of Commerce, and Chairman of the Chelsea Downtown Development Authority. He also served on the Dexter Township Planning Commission and the Tax Board of Review for many years.

Sheridan joined the Kiwanis Club of Ann Arbor in January of 1960. He served as President of the Club in 1967. He was elected the Lieutenant Governor of Division 10 in 1971. “Sherry” as he was fondly known in Kiwanis, achieved the longest perfect attendance record in club history, at 58 years.

Sheridan and Sallie were long time members of the University of Michigan’s Victor’s Club and were season ticket holders for football, hockey and basketball for many years.

They also enjoyed traveling and achieved their bucket list item of visiting all seven continents. Sheridan and Sallie’s favorite get-a-way was Murph’s Camp, the deer hunting cabin in the Upper Peninsula. In recent years, they have enjoyed warm weather during the winter months in Pharr, TX.

Sheridan is survived by his adoring wife, Sallie W. Springer, his daughters, Sherrie Springer of Chelsea, MI, Shelly (Curt) Kessler of Springboro, OH and Shannon (David) Steinbach of North Lake, MI; his treasured grandchildren Sean and Tracy Steinbach, Katie, Mitchell and Julie Kessler, and Christopher Boyd; also nieces, nephews and cousins, and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws, Elgin “Bud” S. and Helen I. Wilson, his sister, Suzanne Springer Holland, and brother-in-law John M. Holland.

The family would like to acknowledge the wonderful care provided by Sheridan’s primary care physician and friend, Rebecca Patrias, MD.

The family will receive friends from 5:00-8:00 pm on Monday, April 23, 2018, at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 North Main Street, Chelsea, MI 48118.

The Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 pm on Tuesday, April 24, 2018 at the First Congregational Church at 608 E. William Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104. The Rev. Robert K. Livingston will be presiding.

Visitation at the Church will be held prior to the service from 2:00-3:00 pm. Parking is available at the Thompson/Maynard Street Parking Structure.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy can be made to: Kiwanis Club of Ann Arbor Foundation, 100 N. Staebler Road, Suite C, Ann Arbor, MI 48103 or the First Congregational Church, 608 E. William Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.


Helen Francis Rigg
Manchester, MI

Age 99, passed away Sunday, April 15, 2018 in her home.

She was born April 23, 1918 in Mosquito Twp., IL, the daughter of Walter B. and Freda F. (Elder) Butterfield. Helen moved to Michigan 59 years ago from Niantic, IL. She worked for Double A Products.

Helen was a member of the Manchester United Methodist Church, Life Member and Past Matron of Eastern Star Chapter #311 in Saline, and member and Past President of American Legion Auxiliary Emil Jacob Post. She was a Civil Service Award recipient.

On Sept. 1, 1940, she married John B. Rigg in the Berea Christian Church, Mt. Auburn, IL, and he preceded her in death on Aug. 28, 1995. Survivors include two sons, Richard J. and Mary Lou Rigg of Chelsea and Ronald Rigg of Volcano, Hawaii; four grandchildren, Sara Rigg Leblanc, Dan Rigg, Mary Rigg Oesterle, John Rigg; 5 great-grandchildren; a sister, Shirley Rager of Latham, IL; and a brother, John Butterfield of Decatur, IL.  She was preceded in death by two sons, James and Robert; a sister, Virginia Hawley; three brothers, Dean, Robert, and Ralph Butterfield.

On Sunday, April 22nd, friends and family will visit and gather for food and celebration from 12-1:30 in the Social Hall of Manchester First United Methodist Church. A memorial service for Helen will directly follow in the sanctuary of the church.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Manchester First United Methodist Church or The American Legion Auxiliary Emil Jacob Post.

Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery, Manchester.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Leo W. Geisler III
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Pittsburgh, PA

Age 88, died peacefully in his sleep on Monday, April 16, 2018 at his home.

He was born March 2, 1930 in Plainfield, New Jersey, the son of Leo W. and Florence E. (Hatch) Geisler.

Leo and Eileen moved to Chelsea in 2006, coming from Bethel Park, PA. He was an Elder at the John McMillen Presbyterian Church in PA. He worked for Pittsburgh Plate Glass for 13 years, and the Heinz Corporation in plant maintenance for 22 years, retiring in 1992.

Leo was active with Boy Scout troop 476, and the Chelsea Senior Center computer club.

On Feb. 4, 1956, he married Eileen M. Zentz in Milan, MI, and she survives. Other survivors include one son, David (Theresa) Geisler of Virginia Beach, Virginia, three daughters Stephanie (James) Monagham of Laplata, Maryland, Elizabeth (Tom) Girard of Chelsea, and Nancy Geisler of Richmond, Virginia; a brother, John Geisler of Hilton Head, SC; 10 grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Leo was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial service will be held Friday, April 20, 1:00 pm at Chelsea United Methodist Church, with Rev. Joy Barrett officiating. Burial will be at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Troop 476.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.


George Carl Freymuth

Died January 26, 2018 at the age of 76 years old.

He is survived by his wife, Sheila, of 47 years, daughter Kim (Scott) Beloskur, son Carl (Norma) Freymuth, grandchildren Jonathon, Jordan, Ashley, Devin, Alyssa, Bentley, Lincoln, Taylor and Bradley. Also his sister Linda Sue Proctor and her children. He was preceded in death by his parents Lou and Madge Freymuth and grandson, Cody Freymuth.

George was a man who, first and foremost, loved God. That foundational characteristic of him spilled into every area of his life. He was a man who loved his family unconditionally.

He was a man of peace, someone you could trust, and he loved to serve people. He was a humble man and would stand in the background unless he shared one of his stories that made everyone laugh.

Memorial service for George is April 28, 2018 at Peoples Church, Pinckney, MI with a luncheon at 1:00 p.m. and a time of celebration of his life 2:00 p.m.


William Frederick “Bill” Storey
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 95, died Thursday, February 15, 2018 in Chelsea, Michigan.

He was born December 21, 1922 in Ionia, Michigan, the son of William C. and Lena M. (Knight) Storey.

Bill, a retired Marine Corps pilot and WWII veteran, was a devoted husband to Jean, his wife of 71 years. His interest in national and local politics and current events led to many lively discussions with his children, grandchildren, friends and neighbors. His wise counsel was respected and appreciated by many. Bill was also a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was proud of his family’s accomplishments and always showed interest in their lives.

Bill graduated from Knox High School in Indiana in 1940. He served as a Naval Aviator in the Marines during WWII, eventually retiring as a Major in the Marine Corps Reserve. He graduated from Michigan State College in 1949 using the GI Bill.

He began his career as an installer for Michigan Bell Telephone, quickly moving up to their data-communication group. He was a pioneer in early computer development and marketing, with clients including MSU, WSU, U of M, and Consumers Power. He moved, with Jean, to Chelsea in 1950, and retired in 1981.

Bill was a member of Chelsea United Methodist Church since 1950, and was also a member of the Chelsea School Board, the Navy League in Ann Arbor, and the Kiwanis Club of Chelsea. He served as Treasurer for the Village of Chelsea, member of the Village Council, and director of Chelsea’s Civil Defense in the 1950s.

On August 31, 1946, Bill married Jean C. Weisgerber. Other survivors include children, Sarah (Dennis) White of Onsted, James Storey of Fredericksburg, VA, and John (Elizabeth) Storey of Grand Rapids; six grandchildren, Marc (Ann) White, Peter White, Jill (Jeffrey) Blazok, Molly Storey, Camden Storey, Anna Storey; five great-grandchildren, June White, Nolan and Drew White, Abigail and Charlie Blazok. Bill was preceded in death by his older brother, Gerald Storey.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, April 8, 2:00 pm at Chelsea First United Methodist Church, with Rev. Tom Macaulay officiating. Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society or the United Service Organization (USO).
Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.


Sandra Suzanne Gasiewski

Age 73, of The Villages, Florida, formerly of Chelsea, Michigan, passed away on March 25, 2018, in Leesburg, Florida.

She was born on January 18, 1945, in Delray, Michigan, the daughter of Joseph William and Irene Regina (Klein) Griffin. Sandra graduated in 1963 from Trenton High School in Trenton, Michigan, and went on to attend Grand Rapids Community College for Interior Design.

Her greatest joys were her family, her home, and her pets. Sandra lived for many years on Clear Lake in Grass Lake, Michigan, where she enjoyed kayaking, boating, and lake life. She took great pride in cooking for her beloved family and friends and making a beautiful and cozy home.

After retiring five years ago, Sandra and Norman moved to The Villages, Florida, where she became an active member of The Giving Dolls Club, Shag Dance Club, and also enjoyed golfing and socializing with friends.

She is survived by her husband, Norman J. Gasiewski, of The Villages, Florida, her daughter Jamie (Brian) Tucker of Chelsea, Michigan, her three sisters Cori (Gene) Burrell, of Trenton, Michigan, Janet Griffin, of Lincoln Park, Michigan, and Lisa (Zip) Lucidi, of Prescott, Arizona. She is also survived by her grandchildren Stephanie (Bryan) Neville-Cannon, of Marietta, Georgia, Joshua, Claire, and Kendall Tucker, of Chelsea, Michigan, as well as many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her daughter, Deborah Neville, and her brother, Jeffrey Griffin.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, March 31, 2018, from 1-5 p.m. and Monday April 2, from 10-11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, Michigan. Funeral services will be held at Cole Funeral Chapel on Monday, April 2, at 11:00 a.m. with Rabbi David Nelson officiating. Burial will follow at Michigan Memorial Cemetery, Flat Rock, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family or the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Wilma (Farley) Picklesimer
Brooklyn, MI, formerly of Chelsea, MI

Wilma (Farley) Picklesimer, a long-time Chelsea resident, went to be with the Lord March 22, 2018 after a short illness.

She was born in Loyall, Kentucky, Jan. 6, 1927, the eighth and last child of Nancy (Bingham) and Carter Howard Farley.

She attended and was a member of Immanuel Bible Church in Chelsea, Michigan for many years. She won Homemaker of the Year at Chelsea Community Fair in 1990 and 1991. She was a life-time member of and volunteered with Chelsea Community Hospital Auxiliary for several decades in the gift shop and sewing circle.

She was a life-time member of VFW Ladies Auxiliary Post 423 and former member of Post 4076. Additionally, she was a home-health aide for Individualized Home Care Services.

In 1995, she and her husband, Mitchell Picklesimer, Sr., received the Volunteer of the Year award from Faith in Action, in Chelsea. Wilma volunteered at Chelsea Retirement Community.

She grew up in Harlan County, Kentucky and met her future husband, Mitchell, at a dinner hosted by her brother, Lawrence. When introduced, she laughed at Mitchell’s last name. They married on May 23, 1942, in Covington, KY. Thus, she always said not to laugh at another person’s last name “because you just might wind up with it.”

She was an avid reader of Christian novels, especially those authored by Grace Livingston Hill. Her family enjoyed her kind spirit of faith and fabulous cooking that included freshly baked bread, cornbread and butterscotch pies. Friends and family benefited from her crocheted afghans, doilies and baby items.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, two infant children, Eda and Carter, her parents, four brothers and three sisters. She leaves behind five children: Sandra Aldrich of Colorado Springs, Colo., a son, Mitchell, Jr., (John Thompkins) of Phoenix, Ariz., Nancy (Bill) Bevins of North Ridgeville, Ohio, Thea Picklesimer of Brooklyn, Mich., and Greta Picklesimer of Jackson, Mich., eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Sunday, March 25, 3:00 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea with Ronald Clark officiating. The family will receive friends Sunday from 2-3 p.m. Burial will follow in the family plot at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Immanuel Bible Church, Community Bible Church, or the charity of your choice.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Ermil Jones
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Monroe and Belleville

Age 88, passed away Saturday, March 17, 2018 at Chelsea Retirement Community.

He was born March 3, 1930 in Owosso, Michigan, the son of Alvin and Edith Mary (Green) Jones.

Ermil graduated from Monroe High School in 1948, and from Adrian College in 1952 with a history major and political science and math minors, earning his Secondary School Teaching Certificate. He earned two Master’s degrees from the University of Michigan, one in 1954 (History) and one in 1972 (School Administration).

He spent 23 years at Van Buren Public Schools in Belleville and 10 years at Jefferson Schools in Monroe. In addition to teaching, Ermil sold life insurance for Columbus Mutual Life Insurance Company, did custodial and maintenance work for four summers for Van Buren School District, spent two summers at Ford Motor Company, and worked for Sears in the credit department and customer service.

He was a member of the Michigan Council for the Social Studies (Past President), Van Buren Education Society (Past President), Monroe County Purchasing Association, and served three years on the Adrian College Alumni Board.

Ermil was active in the Lions Club for over 40 years, in the Belleville Lions (Charter Member and President), Monroe Lions (President and Lion of the Year), Dundee Lions and Huron Valley Sunrise Lions Club.

Ermil was a member of the Monroe Masonic Lodge 27. He was an Eagle Scout, and was involved in scouting for 30 years, including Committee Chair for Boy Scout Troop 544, and serving as both Program Director and Camp Director in the Wolverine Council.

He served as Chairman for the Belleville City Planning Commission and was a member of the Board of Appeals. He was an active church member at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Ypsilanti (Sunday School teacher), Belleville United Methodist (youth group leader, Chair of Christian Education, and choir), St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Monroe (Choir, Liturgist, and Executive Board member), and finally at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Ann Arbor (lead usher, choir, ordained Deacon, Treasurer, and several committees).

He was a Liturgist and certified Lay Speaker for the United Methodist Church.

Survivors include 2 daughters, Linda (Keith) Carnahan of Wyoming, Sheryl (Ken) Gaynor of Oak Park; a son, Kenneth Jones of Wyoming; four step-children, Jennifer (Ted) Baker, Eric (Geesook) Baker, Dave (Loretta) Baker, and Ted (Karen) Baker; four grandchildren, Shawn (Kelly), Paul (Mrianna Skorcz), Sarah, and Caitlin (Sean); two great-grandchildren, Melody and Zoey. He was preceded in death by two wives, Sally (Mayo) Jones and Beverly (Lyons) Baker.

Funeral services will be held Friday, March 23, 2:00 p.m. at the Chelsea Retirement Community Dancey House chapel, with Rev. Tina Zimmerman officiating. The family will receive friends Friday from 1-2 p.m. Burial will be at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Owosso.

Memorial contributions may be made to Lions International.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Robert “Bob” Wallace Rice
Of Lamar, Colorado – formerly of Grass Lake, Michigan

Age 77, passed away after a hard fight against a glioblastoma brain tumor, Saturday, March 17, 2018 in Chelsea, Michigan. His kindness and mild demeanor was maintained until the end.

Bob is survived by his wife, Cathy, his three daughters, Brenda (Bryan), Carrie (Jason), Dawna; seven grandchildren, Amanda, Jacob, Carly (Cameron), Cassidy, Lydia, Paige, and Caden; and four great-grandchildren, Brailynn, Owen, Landon and Bennett. He is also survived by his sisters, Eleanor (Robert) and Carolyn and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister, Marjorie, and his brother Edwin. He will be missed very much by his family and friends.

Bob was born November 24, 1940 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Walter and Alice Rice. He lived in the area most of his life raising his family and working at Chrysler Proving Grounds for 30 years.

He moved to Colorado 2 1/2 years ago. Bob had a unique sense of adventure that usually involved one or more of the following:  car, boat, snowmobile, train, RV, horses or mountains. He was mechanically talented and could fix anything. He cared about people and regularly participated in Bible education as Jehovah’s Witnesses are known for. He touched the lives of many.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 24th at 1:00 p.m. at Chelsea Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 17690 West Old US 12, Chelsea, Michigan 48118. Private burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery in Dixboro, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, or the the American Brain Tumor Association, 8550 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. Ste. 550, Chicago, IL 60631.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Patricia Louise Sanford Brown
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 86, died Monday, February 26, 2018 at Chelsea Community Hospital.

She was born December 13, 1931 in Lansing, Michigan, the daughter of Leonard Holbrook and Thelma Elizabeth (Haite) Sanford.

Patricia attended Lansing public schools, graduating from J.W. Sexton High School in 1949. She was graduated with a BA from Albion College, Albion, MI in 1953 with a major in Biology and minors in Chemistry and Spanish. In 1978, Albion College honored her with a Distinguished Alumna Award.

She worked in the Virus Research Department of Parke Davis in Detroit from 1953-55 with the title of Research Virologist, spending the first year doing secondary screening in mice of substances with possible anti-neurotropic virus qualities. The second year, she transferred to the Salk Polio Vaccine Department at Parkedale Farms, Rochester, MI and safety-tested in small animals, individual strains of polio viruses.

Patricia married her college sweetheart, Tom Brown II on August 27, 1955 in Lansing, MI. She was employed at various secretarial jobs from 1955 until February 1957 when their first child was born in Boston, MA.

Patricia was active in many organizations, including President of the Detroit Conference UMC Board of Equitable Salaries 1975-79, member of the Executive Committee of National Association of Commissions on Equitable Salaries of the UMC from 1975-1994, and National Treasurer 1984-1994. She served continuously as officer or committee member of Church Women United in Michigan, and State President 1979-82.

Patricia was first violinist and charter member with the St. Clair Shores Symphony, Mt. Clemens Symphony, and Allen Park Symphony. She was a member of several choirs, including the Midland Music Society Chorale, soloist with the Madrigal Chorale of Southfield, performing member with the St. Cecilia Society of Flint, and the Albion College Concert Choir (1953 and 2000-2004).

In 1981-82, she was a member of the steering committee for the Consultations of the Future of Ecumenism in Michigan, which led to the organizing of the Michigan Ecumenical Forum. Patricia was a member of the ELT club of Albion, Albion First United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, National Association of Teachers of Singing, Palatines to America, Michigan Oral History Association, Chemo Buddy, and Michigamme Methodist Church Family Camp charter lead family.

Patricia and her husband have hiked extensively in Alberta, British Columbia and Yukon Territory of Canada, and in Alaska from 1985-2001. She self-published two books: “A Charge to Keep” in 1959, and “Seasons for Growing, Diaries of Lizzie Dravenstaat” in 1992.

Patricia and Tom lived in Boston and Malden, MA, and returned to Michigan to live in Dearborn, St. Clair Shores, River Rouge, Iron Mountain, Roseville, Hemlock, Warren, Flint, and Albion.

Patricia was a caring and creative person, a wonderful wife to Tom and mother to their children. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her three children, Steven Brown of Albion, MI, Peter (Lori) Stephens-Brown of Skandia, MI, Mary Lenardson of Albion, MI; 4 grandchildren, Luther (Cassie) Snow, Lara Stephens-Brown, Noah Stephens-Brown, Julie Lenardson; 3 great-grandchildren, Christian, Abigail, and Brooke Snow.

A memorial service will be held in Albion on Saturday, March 24, 1 p.m. at Albion College Goodrich Chapel. A memorial service will be held in Chelsea on Sunday, March 25, 1 p.m. at Chelsea Retirement Community.

Contributions in her memory may be made to the Sanford-Brown Music Scholarship fund at Albion College (611 E. Porter St., Albion, Michigan 49224) or the UMRC Foundation (805 W. Middle St., Chelsea, MI 48118).

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Betty Helen Plasterer
Pinckney, MI

Age 77, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, March 12, 2018 at her daughter’s home.

She was born September 5, 1940 in Dansville, Michigan, the daughter of Emil and Minnie (Serenson) Zaske.

Betty was a selfless mother who always put others before herself. She was a consummate peacemaker who was always smiling and always positive, with a sense of humor that would never stop. Betty worked behind the scenes, never seeking glory.

Betty took care of many people, from babies to hospice. She enjoyed gardening and the outdoors, square dancing, sewing, traveling, and driving the church bus. She was the cool grandma who took her grandchildren on new adventures.

Survivors include her children, Vicki (David) Ribar, Erik Booker, Joseph Booker, Linda Booker; Donna Plasterer, Nancy (Mark) Zachos, John (Carolyn) Plasterer; a brother, Bob Zaske; a sister, Norma (Bob) Rolhoff; 5 grandchildren, Kris Ribar, Megan (David) Lang, Joellyn Plasterer, Morgan Plasterer, Anne Zachos; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by two husbands, Charles Booker and Donald Plasterer.

Funeral services will be held Monday, March 19, 1 p.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church, Chelsea, with Rev. Dale Grimm officiating. The family will receive friends noon to 1 p.m. before the funeral.

Burial will be held Tuesday, 11 a.m. at Glen Eden Memorial Park, Livonia, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to Concordia Lutheran School in Redford. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Edith “Edie” Mary Knapp-Willoughby
of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Ypsilanti

Edie passed away peacefully at home on Friday March 9th, 2018. She was born Nov. 8th, 1924 in Traverse City, MI, daughter of John J. Sutton and Susan Bradford Sutton.

After graduating from West Branch High School in 1943, Edie worked for the Bell Telephone Co. She later graduated from Western Union Business School in Crawfordsville, IN. She moved to Ypsilanti, MI and worked at the Western Union office and soon met and married Donald Knapp.

Don passed away on April 1st 1985. In 1999, she married Dr. Robert Willoughby, he passed in August of 2011. Edie was also preceded in death by her parents, her brother John Sutton Jr. and infant twin sons John and James Knapp.

Edie was an accomplished artist working mainly in oils and pastels and taking up watercolors in her 80’s. She learned the art of coloring photographs and tinted many from 1946-1977 for HA Powell Studios of Detroit, MI.

Edie enjoyed many years volunteering at the First United Methodist Church of Ypsilanti where she was a Sunday school teacher, as well as singing in the church choir for over 30 years. She also volunteered at Beyer Hospital, Gilbert Residence and for the Thrift Shop in Ypsilanti for over 21 years. She also sang in Ypsilanti Community Choir for over 21 years, she served as Regent of The Ypsilanti Chapter of the DAR and PEO. Edie loved God’s beautiful world and was fortunate to get to travel to 25 countries and 49 states.

She is survived by 3 sons, David K. (Janice) of Middleville, MI, Steven D. (Debra) of Appleton, WI, and Douglas M. (Kathy) of Manchester, MI. Also surviving are her grandchildren Krista, Joshua (Emily), Olivia, Kalena (Shaun) Mefford, all of Wisconsin. Caleb and Holden of Manchester, MI; and 3 great grandchildren Gina, Kirra and Catlin of WI.

A Celebration of Her Life will be held at Silver Maples of Chelsea on Saturday March 24th at 11:00 a.m, with Rev. Jeff Crowder officiating. Her family will receive visitors starting at 10 a.m.

Memorial contributions can be made to St. Joseph Mercy Hospice of Michigan or the First United Methodist Church of Ypsilanti, MI.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Barbara Ann Bourdeau McAuley
East Lansing, MI

Age 84, died Thursday, February 15, 2018 at Medilodge of East Lansing.

She was born April 13, 1933 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, the daughter of Joseph G. and Marquerite (Keeler) Bourdeau. Barbara was a Registered Nurse, graduating from the Royal Victoria Hospital in Montreal in 1956.

Survivors include her son, Terence J. McAuley of Ann Arbor; her sister Judith (Steve) Wilgar of Toronto; and many cousins in Chatham, Ontario.

At Barb’s request, no services will be held. Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to her son Terry, c/o Attorney Susan Zale, 134 West Middle St, Ste. D, Chelsea, MI 48118.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Shirley Joan Smith
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Manchester and Gregory

Age 89, passed away peacefully Tuesday, March 6, 2018 in her home.

She was born May 29, 1928 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Jack Vincent and Rosina Domatilla (Schillinger) King.

Shirley was raised in Detroit during the Depression. After her marriage, she traveled with her husband while he was in the Army, and later they lived in Manchester, and on a farm in Gregory. She has lived in Chelsea for over 30 years. She was physically active, mowing with a push mower until she was 80, and she enjoyed exercise, especially aerobics. She had many friends, and enjoyed a special group of friends that met every Friday night for 25 years.

She married Edwin Frank Smith in 1950, and he preceded her in death on May 31, 1992. Survivors include two daughters, Leslie J. Gallop of Chelsea, Kathy A. (Brian) Conley of Ft. Meyers, FL; her son, Gregory D. Smith of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; a brother, William King of Clinton Township; 3 grandchildren, Brian, Sarah, Crystal; 5 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, Shirley was preceded in death by a daughter, Michelle Smith and two sisters, Olive Bruckman and Norma King. She had many dogs in her life whom she loved dearly and is survived by her very special companion, Dude.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Friday, March 9, from 4-8 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Huron Valley Humane Society, 3100 Cherry Hill Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105.


Mary Elizabeth “Betty” DeRouchie
Jackson, Michigan, formerly of Dearborn

Age 88, went to be with her Lord Thursday, February 22, 2018 while living at her daughter’s home.

She was born March 23, 1929 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of John and Cecelia (Hanratty) Dillon.

Betty attended Immanuel Bible Church in Chelsea. She stayed home to raise her children, but also worked as a cook in the Dearborn Schools.

On January 11, 1947, she married Donald DeRouchie in Detroit, and he preceded her in death on Aug. 7, 2005. Survivors include five children, David (Bonnie) DeRouchie of Philipi, WV, Michael (Carolyn) DeRouchie of Monroe, Ken DeRouchie of Portland, OR, Linda (David) Parham of Jackson, Donna DeRouchie of Gregory; a daughter-in-law, Angie DeRoucie; 21 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a son, Douglas DeRouchie, her parents; all of her siblings, Tom, John, Cliff, Ray, Hubert, Phyllis, Margaret, Stella, Alice, and two siblings who died in infancy.

A memorial service will be held 1:00 pm on March 23rd (Betty’s birthday) at Immanuel Bible Church, 275 N. Freer Road (Pierce Lake Elementary School), Chelsea, MI 48118.

Memorial contributions may be made to Immanuel Bible Church, 145 E. Summit St., Chelsea, MI 48118.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Douglas Robert Cooper

Age 69, died peacefully in his sleep at home on February 26, 2018.

Doug was born on September 20, 1948, in Detroit to Dolores and Robert E. Cooper (deceased).

He is survived by his wife Nancy, his sister Deborah (Leonard Williams) Moffat, niece Lesley Moffat, sister-in-law Kathy (Dr. Harry) Von Ert felda, nephews Matthew and Eric Von Ert felda, and many close friends.

Doug grew up in Detroit and attended Denby High School where he was an All-American football player. He went on to play football at Arizona State and Eastern Michigan University until a serious injury ended his football career and pro dreams.  Doug was an outstanding athlete in other sports as well, excelling in golf over the past 30 years. He was passionate about playing and spending time with his close group of golfing buddies.

Doug was proud to be a teacher of high school students with mental impairments for 32 years, working for the Washtenaw Intermediate School District. He and Nancy still stay in contact with many of their former students, now adults, who fondly remember Doug for his wonderful sense of humor and for believing in them.

Doug and Nancy were lifelong partners in pursuing fitness activities themselves and involving students in Special Olympics sports since the organization began. Doug coached athletes in a wide variety of Special Olympics sports. As an Area Director for Washtenaw County, he began the soccer and wrestling programs for the state of Michigan. The annual Coopers Fitness Fun Run, now in its 35th year, was started by Doug. This wonderful event draws 1,200 participants from across Washtenaw County together, celebrating fitness and spending time in the outdoors.

Doug enjoyed life. He and Nancy loved spending time together at home on the lake. Doug supported Nancy in creating her elaborate gardens, often serving as a very entertaining tour guide for garden club visits.

Visitation will be at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 North Main Street in Chelsea from 3:00-7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 6.

Doug loved animals of all kinds, especially cats. His most recent rescue was a feral cat named Hisser. Nancy requests that no flowers be sent but that those who wish to contribute in Doug’s memory make a donation to the Huron Valley Humane Society or an animal rescue agency of your choice.


Katharina Dietlinde Pool
Chelsea, Michigan

Passed away on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 at Silver Maples of Chelsea at the age of 89.

She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Katharina was born October 4, 1928 in Bous/Saar, Germany, the daughter of Johann and Maria (Schramm) Pink.

Katharina grew up in Germany. She married Alfred Ritz on June 28, 1948 in Germany, and he preceded her in death in 1985. In 1990, Katharina married Milton Pool of Ann Arbor. They enjoyed 10 years together before his passing on November 10, 2001.

In 2008, Katharina moved to Silver Maples. She loved gardening, traveling, cooking, baking, and entertaining for family and friends. Her home was always open to share life. Katharina also enjoyed community service to local organizations to which she belonged, GBU 630, Schwaven Verein, and German Park.

She is survived by her children, Waltraud (Dieter) Laubach and Wolfgang (Irmi) Ritz of Germany; her grandchildren, Sabiene (Stefan) Pancelet and Alexander Ritz of Germany; great-grandchildren, Daniel, Lucas, and Marco Pancelet of Germany; brother-in-law, Clair (Peggy) Griffen; niece, Barb (Will) Penpraze and family; brother-in-law, Willis Porter and Anneliese Schubert; niece, Rose (Richard) Walker; nephew, John (Diane) Porter and family; and all of her friends, especially Marianne and Hans Rauer.

The family would like to thank Silver Maples for the beautiful years of great care, love, and friendship. Thanks to Arbor Hospice for their great support, concern, and care. Thank you Rev. Jeff Crowder and Rev. Vicki Lovell for their spiritual care.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, February 28, 2018, at 2 pm at Silver Maples, Chelsea, Michigan with Rev. Jeff Crowder officiating.

Interment will be at Forest Hill Cemetery, Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to Silver Maples Silver Lining Fund (100 Silver Maples Drive, Chelsea, MI 48118), Kaleidoscope Concert Series (100 Silver Maples Drive, Chelsea, MI 48118, Checks made to Silver Maples, Kaleidoscope in memo), or Arbor Hospice (2366 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48103).

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


William Frederick “Bill” Storey
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 95, died Thursday, February 15, 2018 in Chelsea, Michigan.

He was born December 21, 1922 in Ionia, Michigan, the son of William C. and Lena M. (Knight) Storey. Bill, a retired Marine Corps pilot and WWII veteran, was a devoted husband to Jean, his wife of 71 years. His interest in national and local politics and current events led to many lively discussions with his children, grandchildren, friends and neighbors. His wise counsel was respected and appreciated by many.

Bill was also a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was proud of his family’s accomplishments and always showed interest in their lives.

Bill graduated from Knox High School in Indiana in 1940. He served as a Naval Aviator in the Marines during WWII, eventually retiring as a Major in the Marine Corps Reserve. He graduated from Michigan State College in 1949 using the GI Bill. He began his career as an installer for Michigan Bell Telephone, quickly moving up to their data-communication group. He was a pioneer in early computer development and marketing, with clients including MSU, WSU, U of M, and Consumers Power. He moved, with Jean, to Chelsea in 1950, and retired in 1981.

Bill was a member of Chelsea United Methodist Church since 1950, and was also a member of the Chelsea School Board, the Navy League in Ann Arbor, and the Kiwanis Club of Chelsea. He served as Treasurer for the Village of Chelsea, member of the Village Council, and director of Chelsea’s Civil Defense in the 1950s.

On August 31, 1946, Bill married Jean C. Weisgerber. Other survivors include children, Sarah (Dennis) White of Onsted, James Storey of Fredericksburg, VA, and John (Elizabeth) Storey of Grand Rapids; six grandchildren, Marc (Ann) White, Peter White, Jill (Jeffrey) Blazok, Molly Storey, Camden Storey, Anna Storey; five great-grandchildren, June White, Nolan and Drew White, Abigail and Charlie Blazok. Bill was preceded in death by his older brother, Gerald Storey.

A spring memorial service is being planned.

Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea is handling the arrangements. Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society or the United Service Organization (USO).


Michael Kelly Mullens
of Kalamazoo, Michigan, formerly of Southfield, Michigan

Age 49, died unexpectedly of natural causes Wednesday, February 14, 2018 at his home.

He was born November 2, 1968 in Livonia, Michigan, the son of Harold L. and Susan C. (Wilson) Mullens.

Michael graduated from Southfield High School in 1986. He served in the US Army. Michael worked at entertainment clubs, doing everything from security to management. He was a body builder, going to Gold Gym in Kalamazoo often. Michael enjoyed his time with friends.

Survivors include his mother and father of Napoleon; his sister, Michele Mullens (Greg DeGraff) of Chelsea; and their 4 children, Douglas Zygner, Maxie, Luke, and Noah DeGraff.

Funeral services will be held Monday, Feb. 19, 11 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea. The family will receive friends Sunday 1-3 and 4:30-6 p.m. and Monday 10-11 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family.


Mary Alice Rykert
of Ovid, MI, formerly of Chelsea and Owosso

Age 82, died Tuesday, February 13, 2018 at Ovid Healthcare Center in Ovid, Michigan.

She was born August 3, 1935 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the daughter of Charles and Fannie (Mawby) Rykert.

Survivors include a nephew, Charles (Judy) Koenn, and a niece, Marsha Rulert.  She was preceded in death by her sister, Louise Koenn; a brother, Glenn Rykert; and a niece, Laura Castle.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, February 21, 10:00 a.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, Michigan with Fr. Joseph Rinaldo officiating. Burial will be at Garfield Park Cemetery in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Louis Center, 16195 Old U.S. 12, Chelsea, MI 48118.


Jane B. Korth
of Chelsea

Jane Cornelia Blackman Korth passed away on Sunday, Feb. 11, 2018 in Chelsea, Michigan at the age of 88.

She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Jane was born on Nov. 16, 1929 in Bridgeton, New Jersey, the daughter of Paul and May (Smith) Blackman. She grew up and attended high school in Alexandria, Virginia. After receiving a B.A. degree from Lynchburg College in Lynchburg, Virginia, she worked as a secretary at the Pentagon.

Jane married Merrill Walter Korth in 1955 and they shared 58 wonderful years together. Before retiring in 1989, she worked at Johnson Controls in Manchester, Michigan for ten years.

Jane was an avid walker, an enthusiastic reader and a lover of puzzles. She was fond of camping and enjoyed being surrounded by nature. Jane was a proud member of Manchester United Methodist Church, the United Methodist Women and the Shakespeare Reading Club.

She helped create and maintain the tranquil meditation/memorial garden at Manchester United Methodist Church and her ashes will be placed there beside the ashes of her devoted husband, Merrill.

Jane was preceded in death by her husband, Merrill. She is survived by her four children: David (Sherie Defranceschi) Korth of Northville, Michigan; Susan (Ian) Macpherson of Richmond, Virginia; Barbara Shepler (Tony Black) of Golden, Colorado and Richard (Leah) Korth of Manchester, Michigan. Also surviving Jane are six grandchildren: Sydney Korth, Vanessa Macpherson, Jeremy Macpherson, Logan Shepler, Nathan Korth and Daniel Korth. In addition, Jane is survived by her brother Robert S. Blackman of Lake City, Florida and her cousin Ethalinda Blackman of Midland, Michigan.

Jane’s life will be celebrated at a private family ceremony in the spring.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Marion Katherine Seel Hackley

Marion Katherine Seel Hackley was born on July 20,1926, in Mineola on Long Island, New York, to Louis Seel and Emma Ida (Schultz) Seel, immigrants from Germany.

Her first language was German. In the public schools, she learned to speak, read, and write English. Her father was a manager of A and P grocery stores, and in the 1930’s he moved the family to Tunbridge, Vermont, to run a small grocery store. Marion walked a mile to a two-room schoolhouse.

She remembered her mother becoming a U. S. citizen, wearing a dress she had sewn of red, white, and blue. The family regarded themselves as Americans with a German background.

They returned to Long Island, and Marion graduated from Glen Cove High School in 1943. She attended Cornell University on a scholarship, graduating in 1946 with a degree in Home Economics. Her mother wanted her to have a practical college education so, she could support herself. She went to work for Doubleday and Company, a publisher just outside New York City, and a co-worker introduced her to George Hackley, an electrical engineer working in radar. They were married at the Episcopal Church of the Advent, Westbury, New York, on June 6, 1948.

Soon after, he was offered a job in Redwood City, California to work for Varian Associates, one of the first electronic firms in what has become Silicon Valley.

Marion loved California with its abundance of fruits, vegetables, and sunshine. They soon had three children, Laura, Robert (Bob), and Brian, and settled in 1951 in a new ranch home in Los Altos, California, then a town of orchards and farms. They enjoyed camping in the Sierras and at Lake of the Woods, Oregon.

Marion was a good cook, gardener, enjoyed sewing and reading, especially mysteries and history, and enjoyed theater, opera and Frank Sinatra. They belonged to Christ Episcopal Church in Los Altos. In 1966, she went to work for Wells Fargo Bank in Mountain View and credited the women’s movement with encouraging her in the 1970’s to seek more challenging roles in the bank system. With her work, she saw the rise of the computer industry.

She retired in 1988 to take care of her mother and enjoyed traveling and her grandchildren. A great sadness was the passing of her son Robert due to a brain tumor in 1997. In 2013, she moved to Chelsea, Michigan, to be closer to family.

She leaves Laura (Clifford) Craig of Ann Arbor, Michigan, Mary Hackley of Edmonds, Washington, Brian (Wendy) Hackley of Seneca, S.C., grandchildren Steve (Jennifer) Hackley, Paul (Cori) Craig, Julie Craig, and granddaughter Lilian Craig. The family is grateful to the staff at Towsley Village at Chelsea Retirement Community for her care.

Marion’s memorial service will be held Saturday, Feb. 10, 11:00 am at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church with Rev. Alan Gibson officiating.

Donations in her memory may be made to the UMRC Foundation, 805 West Middle Street or Christ Episcopal Church, 1060 Border Rd., Los Altos, CA, 94024.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Barbara Morrison Springborn
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 93, passed away Sunday, February 4, 2018 at StoryPoint Memory Care in Saline, Michigan.

She was born June 28, 1924 in Ann Arbor, Michigan and was the daughter of Thomas and Minnie (Stimson) Morrison. Barbara also lived in both Charlevoix, MI and Miami, FL as a child. She graduated from Miami High School and joined the WAVES in the US Navy during World War II.

Barbara attended the University of Michigan for 1 year and then graduated from Michigan State University in 1949 on the GI Bill. On September 29,1949, she married Frederick Springborn at New York Avenue Presbyterian Church in Washington, DC, and he preceded her in death on November 7, 2009. They were married for 60 years.

Barbara lived with her family in Washington D.C., Germany, 1954-1959, and then Silver Spring, MD. She moved with her husband Fred, to The Pines Apartments in Chelsea, MI in 2005. While at the Pines, she was blessed by a special friendship with Charlene Taylor, who then became her dear caregiver.


Barbara was a member of New York Avenue Presbyterian Church in Washington D.C. and then Northwood Presbyterian Church in Silver Spring. She was actively involved in her church as well as volunteering at the Friends Nursing Home. She enjoyed her family, playing golf, games, horses, dogs, puzzles, and summer vacations in Michigan.

Survivors include a son, James (Martha) Springborn of Monroeville, PA; a daughter, Linda (Paul) Jamieson of Saline; four grandchildren, Amanda Jamieson of Boulder, CO, Kelly Jamieson of Edinburgh, Scotland, Kristina (Christopher) Nesensohn of Pottstown, PA, Jennifer Springborn of Monroeville, PA; and 2 great-grandchildren, Arianna and Danica Nesensohn.

Barbara adored her granddaughters and they brought her such joy. She was over the moon to be a great-grandma. Her love for her family was boundless.

Barbara’s memorial service will be held Saturday, February 10, 11:00 am at the First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor with Rev. Melissa Anna Rogers officiating. Private burial will be at Forest Hills Cemetery in Ann Arbor.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, 1432 Washtenaw Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48104.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


John Francis Blaznek
of Jackson, formerly of Ann Arbor and Hanover

Age 85, passed away Wednesday, January 31, 2018 in Jackson, Michigan.

He was born August 24, 1932 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of John Michael and Eleanor Helen (Kozlowski) Blaznek.

John graduated from Chelsea High School in 1951. He worked numerous jobs including Boeing Aircraft of Seattle, Washington, he flew a Piper single engine plane from Washington to Michigan, and was a pilot for Zantop International Airlines and Universal Airlines in Willow Run Airport.

John spent 5 years as a police officer for Ann Arbor Police and 2 years as a Washtenaw County Deputy. His last job was hauling steel for Capital Cartage in Detroit. He was a member of St. Stanislaus Kostkas in Jackson. John enjoyed camping with his daughter at D.H. Day Campground in Glen Arbor.

Survivors include one daughter, Susan Price of Powder Springs, Georgia; one brother, Leonard Blaznek of Chelsea; one sister, Patricia (Jerry) Piatt of Chelsea; 3 grandchildren, Samantha, Sydney, and Ethan Price; and 1 nephew, John K. (Jenny) Piatt. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A funeral mass will be held Tuesday, February 6, 11:00 am at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating. The family will receive friends at the church from 10-11 a.m.  Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Stanislaus Kostkas, 608 S Elm Ave, Jackson, MI 49203.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Robert Ralph Merck
Livonia, MI

Age 82, died Wednesday, January 24, 2018 at University of Michigan Hospital.

He was born December 23, 1935 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Rolf Nils and Evelyn Louise (Neibert) Merck.

Robert attended high school at Cass Technical in Detroit and then worked for Chrysler as an electrician for over 45 years.

On September 7, 1967, he married Helen Marozi in Detroit, and she preceded him in death on Feb. 24, 2001. Robert is survived by a daughter, Doreen Herrin, a grandchild, John Edward Gilbert, and 2 great-grandchildren Matthew and Gracie. He was preceded in death by his sister, Marilyn Brown.

No funeral services will be held. Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to the USO.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Geoffrey Moore Savage
Ann Arbor, Michigan

Geoffrey Moore Savage, of Ann Arbor, Michigan, died of cancer at Saint Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor on January 17, 2018. He was 65.

Geoff was born December 27, 1952, in Pontiac, Michigan, to the late Philip John Savage, Jr., and Justine Angela (Brady) Savage, 95, of Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.

Geoff was raised in Bloomfield Hills, where he played elaborate childhood games with his siblings, battled the family goat, and generally caused mischief. He graduated from Brother Rice High School and earned his bachelor’s degree in communications from Michigan State University in 1976.

Geoff’s great passions were people, small businesses, and play. He started his career working with the late James “Pete” Hamilton at Regal Feed and Supply in Drayton Plains, Michigan, in 1975. From there, he worked at Rochester Elevator and Shemin Nurseries before starting Frontier Distributing, Inc., with Mark E. Smith in 1986. Geoff later went on to own and operate Eva Marie’s Harbor Key restaurant in Lapeer, Michigan, and Oxford Home Garden and Pet in Oxford, Michigan, before moving to Ann Arbor in 2006.

In recent years, Geoff split his time working at Ace Barnes Hardware and pitching in at the Annex of Paredown, a vintage and interior decor shop owned and operated by his partner, Brenda Brown, of Ann Arbor.

In addition to his mother Justine and partner Brenda, Geoff is survived by his daughter Mary Savage and her husband Matthew McCarty, of Royal Oak, his daughter Christine Savage and her wife Colleen Anderson, of Cambridge, Massachusetts, their mother and his second wife, Susan Savage of Waterford, as well as his siblings Peter (Sandra) Savage, Laura (J’nise Ramsey) Saylor, Timothy Savage, Brian Savage, Philip John Savage, III, and many beloved nieces and nephews. Geoff is preceded in death by his first wife, Georgia “Gigi” Carlos

A memorial to celebrate Geoff’s life will take place in the coming weeks. Details will be forthcoming.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Marilyn Joyce Mark
Chelsea, MI

Age 81, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at her home.

She was born July 12, 1936 in Cameron, Illinois, the daughter of William Albert and Anna Linnea (Johnson) Hawkins Sr.

Marilyn has resided in Washtenaw County since 1957.  She was the owner and operator of Marilyn Mark’s Hair Stylists in Ann Arbor from 1958 up until her death. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star in Muskegon.

On March 2, 1957, she married David Lewis Mark in Muskegon, MI, and he preceded her in death on April 4, 2001. Survivors include her son, Damon (Cynthia) Mark of Chelsea; a grandson, David Mark of Chelsea; one sister, Marthea Brewer of Grand Rapids; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by 1 brother, William A. Hawkins Jr.; and 2 sisters, Patricia Repo and Barbara Underwood.

A memorial service will be held Monday, January 22, 11 am at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.

The family will receive friends 9-11 a.m. at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Epworth Methodist Church in Brethren, MI.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Richard Kenneth Hartman
Jackson, Michigan

Age 90, took his last breath Saturday, January 13, 2018 at Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice in Jackson.

He was born January 14, 1927 in Ypsilanti, Michigan, the son of Cornelius Clifton and Marian Emily (Wakefield) Sr.

Richard served in the Army in Japan during World War II. He retired from the Ann Arbor Fire Department in 1983 after 25 years of service. Richard was an avid square dancer and danced for Disney in Florida. He was a member of the Kissimmee Square Dancing Club, and a field director for the National Camping and Hiking Association. Richard was a member of Brookside Methodist Church in Jackson where he served as a Trustee. He enjoyed woodworking and built his own grandfather clock. Richard loved playing cards and didn’t know how to pass when it came to euchre.

On September 30, 1959, he married Dessie Furman in Indiana and she survives. Other survivors include 2 sons, James Hartman of Arizona, William (Cindy) Hartman of Harrisville; 2 daughters, Janice (Jeff) Mace of Dexter, Sherry (Art) Paul of Jackson; 1 step-son, Robert (Mary Jo) Gurk of Kentucky; 7 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Robert Hartman, Cornelius Hartman Jr., Mildred Duncan; a step son, Thomas Gurk; and 2 granddaughters, Laura and Lisa.

A memorial service will be held Monday, January 22, at 11 a.m., at Brookside Methodist Church, 4000 Francis St, Jackson, MI 49203, with Pastor Ron Brooks officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Huntington’s Disease Society of America. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Wendy Jean Davis
Boise, Idaho

Age 52, died Thursday, January 11, 2018 at home in Boise, Idaho.

She was born March 5, 1965 in Los Angeles, California, the daughter of Donald LeRoy and Marcia Marie (Himmelein) Davis, Jr.

Wendy graduated from Stockbridge High School in 1985. She served in the US Army for 8 years. Wendy enjoyed nature walks, spending time at the lake, and spending time with her niece and nephews.

Survivors include her father, Donald of Gregory; a brother, John (Michelle) Davis of Chelsea; a sister, Jamie Lewis of CA; niece, Madyson Davis; Nephews, Jacob Raymond, Dakota Lewis and John Davis J.  She was preceded in death by her mother in 2008 and nephew, Bradley Birchfield in 2015.

No funeral services will be held.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family of Wendy Davis (checks made out to John Davis).

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Betty Ruth Damren
Chelsea, MI, formerly Ann Arbor, MI

Age 99, passed away Friday, January 5, 2018 at the Chelsea Retirement Community.

She was born July 19, 1918 in Ames, Iowa, the daughter of Frank and Florence (Wilcox) Jessup, and grew up on a farm near Adrian, Michigan. Betty was a retired educator, living at the Chelsea Retirement Community. Her undergraduate degree was from Eastern Michigan University. After Pearl Harbor, she volunteered for the Red Cross and was stationed in London during some of the perilous times of World War II.

She and her husband Samuel N. Damren married after the war and moved to Ann Arbor.  She received graduate degrees from the University of Michigan and worked at the University’s Children’s Psychiatric Hospital and the Ann Arbor Public Schools as a reading specialist during her career. She was a long-time volunteer with Arbor Hospice and Friends in Need.

Survivors include her son, Sam (Jane) Damren of Grosse Pointe; 3 grandchildren, Samantha (Steven Stanton) Damren of Ann Arbor, Nathaniel Damren of New York City, Todd (Caroline) Damren of Washington, DC; two great-grandchildren, Naomi and Alastair Stanton.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Samuel.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 27, 2:00 pm at the Towsley Chapel at Chelsea Retirement Community.

Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Retirement Community Foundation.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Charles Edgar “Chuck” Lilly
Chelsea, Michigan

Charles Edgar “Chuck” Lilly of Chelsea, MI, age 86, died January 2, 2018 at Chelsea Retirement Community, Chelsea, MI.

Charles was born in Macon, IL the son of E. B. Spurgeon Lilly and Beulah Mae Lanter. He was a Veteran of the Korean Conflict serving as a Cryptographer in Alaska. Chuck was a Past President and Life Member of the Decatur, IL Jaycees and a JCI Senator for IL.  He was a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator in six states and a member of The American College of Nursing Home Administrators.  In retirement Chuck was a Gold Member of SCORE Chapter #296 Decatur, IL and SCORE Chapter # 493 Osage Beach, MO.

Chuck is survived by his wife of 47 years, Sharon R. Stewart Lilly Chelsea, MI, daughter, Denise J Goss, Saline, MI, and her mother, Dorothy Pride, Granddaughter, Dr. Heather Schuyler, and 2 Great Grands Penne and Tad Schuyler of Tecumseh, MI, sister, Norma J Nichols (Duane), Evansville, IN, sister-in-law, Karen Kay (Mike) Wisdom, Decatur, IL, nieces, Janine Nichols Goodin (Larry), Evansville, IN and their extended families, Kimberly Kay Hofer and extended family, Oakridge, TN , nephew, Kurt Alexander and extended family, Decatur, IL.

Charles has donated his body to the University of Michigan Anatomical Donation Program, Ann Arbor, MI.

A private family memorial service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.

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