Chelsea State Bank ad

Obituaries 2020


Tina Louise Moore
of Ypsilanti, MI, formerly of Auburn Hills, MI

Age 62, died unexpectedly on Friday, December 25, 2020, due to natural causes.

She was born September 12, 1958, in Detroit, MI, the daughter of Dennis and Evelyn (McGriff) Case.

Tina was a Teacher in the Detroit School District, and also worked for Kroger in the Ypsilanti area for 10 years. She attended the Ypsilanti Baptist Temple. She loved singing and traveling. She graduated from Calvary Christian Academy in 1976, earned her bachelor’s degree from Tennessee Temple University, and later earned a master’s degree from Eastern Michigan University. She was the family’s encyclopedia and knew all about her family’s genealogy.

On September 12, 2009, she married Bob Moore, and he preceded her in death on April 21, 2012. She was also preceded in death by her parents; a sister-in-law, Cindy Case; a brother-in-law, Ron Moore; her niece, Angi Dowdle; and a bonus brother, Robbie Rousseau. Survivors include her brother, Richard Case of Chelsea; two sisters, Dana (Bob) Davis of Stockbridge, Lisa (Bob) Greca of Ypsilanti; a bonus sister, Lisa Rousseau; her second mom, Fran Rousseau; three step-sons, Bobby (Michelle) Moore, Bryan (Melissa) Moore, Ken (Sherri) Moore; six step-grandchildren, Marcus, Jessica, Joe, Brody, Brayden, and Shane; three brothers- and sisters-in-law, Pat (Dan, Kelly) Kniffen, Don (Cindy, Kirsten, Shawn) Moore, Karen (Eric, Veronica) Moore; and several nieces and nephews, Daniel (Marie) Case, David (Cassidy, Grayson, Parker) Case, Stephanie (Ryan, Wyatt) Jacobs, Taylor and Trevor Greca; and her Arkansas family.

A memorial service will be held at a later date at Ypsilanti Baptist Temple. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family or a cause/charity of your choosing.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Marilyn R. Chandler
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 90, passed away Saturday, December 26, 2020 at Chelsea Retirement Community.

She was born January 9, 1930 at home in Detroit, Michigan the daughter of Earl A. and Carrie L. (Durham) Rice.

Marilyn graduated from Cooley High School in Detroit and attended Michigan State University and worked as a secretary in the Alumni Office. It was there that she met her future husband William “Bill” Chandler.

On March 14, 1953, she and Bill were married in the Alumni Chapel at MSU. They moved to Chelsea in 1954 where Bill went to work for Marilyn’s father at the Detroit Abrasives Company.

Marilyn was a charter member of the original Chelsea Co-op Nursery School that eventually converted the old Beach one room school into a co-op nursery school complete with a blue front door with white polka dots. She was a member of the Chelsea Child Study Club, Nomads Travel Group and volunteered in the Chelsea Hospital gift shop for many years.

Marilyn was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She enjoyed sewing, beading and made beautiful quilts.

She is survived by her husband of 67 years Bill, and their three daughters Cindy (Richard) Westfall of Rochester, NY, Mary Beth Chandler of Littleton, CO, Carolyn (Nick) Roopas of Ann Arbor, five grandchildren, Alyssa, Emily, Alex and Evan Roopas, Kathryn (Patrick) Westgrove and one great-grandchild Adelaide Rose Westgrove.

Due to Covid, a private graveside service will be held at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea. An in-person memorial will be held in the Summer of 2021.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Barn Sanctuary, 20179 McKernan Dr., Chelsea, MI  48118.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Jeffrey V. Weber
of Chelsea, MI

Age 75, died Saturday, December 19, 2020 at his home.

He was born April 2, 1945 in Ann Arbor, MI , the son of John “Jack” W. and Gertrude M. (Weinberg) Weber.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Jack B. Weber.

Jeff graduated from Jackson High School in 1963, and then earned a BA degree from MSU. He was a sales representative for Dan Waitz Associates in Dexter. Born and raised in Michigan, Jeff lived in California from 1971 – 1992, before returning to family land outside of Chelsea. 

Jeff was a devoted father and a coach of his kids’ sports teams. He loved to visit his kids and grandkids in CA and CO. He was fond of natural landscapes and enjoyed traveling to beautiful locations. He was a Civil War buff and landscaping aficionado. Jeff was proudly sober for 38 years and was a dedicated member of the AA fellowship. 

Survivors include: son, Matt (Connie) Weber of San Jose, CA: granddaughters Caitlin and Samantha: a daughter Jennifer (John) Cautrell of Granby, CO: grandson Camden: nephews Brooks, Steve, and John Weber.

A private celebration of his life will be held at a later time.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Yosemite Conservancy, 101 Montgomery Street, Suite 1700, San Francisco, CA 94104.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.


Shirley Gean Salow
Jackson, MI

Age 90, died Monday, December 14, 2020, at Jackson County Medical Care Facility.

She was born May 14, 1930, in Norvell, Michigan, the daughter of Everett and Adeline Agnes (Schneidenbach) Moore.

Shirley graduated from Chelsea High School in 1948. She was mother to seven children. She worked for Marzon Electric and Ruhland Electric in Howell. Shirley was a former member of Zion Lutheran Church.

Shirley married Harold Salow on March 8, 1958. He preceded her in death on January 29, 1996. Shirley is survived by three sons, Theodore (Tina) Summerland of Arkansas, Curtis (Twyla) Summerland of Nebraska, Robert (Emma) Salow of Howell; three daughters, Linda Schmidt of Bradenton, Florida, Jacqueline Cook of Rives Junction, Theresa (Ronald) Annett of Corunna; one brother, Howard of Georgia; two sisters, Fern Haas of Ann Arbor, Leona Schrader of Grandville, 18 grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Glen Summerland; a granddaughter, Sheila Summerland; 7 brothers, Harold, Arthur, Robert, Raymond, Orville, Melbourne, and Wilfred Moore; 2 sisters,  Jenette Coltson and Leila.

No public services are planned.

Memorial contributions may be made to a hospice of your choice. Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Arlene Dobberstein Harvey
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 95, died at her home in Silver Maples of Chelsea on December 14, 2020 and is now at peace, with her Lord and Savior.

The daughter of Clarence and Laura Koengeter, she was born on May 5, 1925, on a farm south of Chelsea. She enjoyed being her Dad’s helper on the farm and attended a one-room school for the first 8 years of her education.

The foundation of her faith was received at Zion Lutheran Church, Rogers Corners, where she was baptized, confirmed and married. She graduated from Chelsea High School in the class of 1942 and from Cleary College in 1943. She was a secretary at the University of Michigan for two years and then attended Capital University in Columbus, Ohio for three years.

In 1948, she married Ralph A. Dobberstein of Dayton, Ohio. He was a WWII veteran and later a US Forester. They were blessed with four children, the joys of their lives: Tom; twins: Mary and Gary; and Tim. During their married life, they lived in Rome and Newnan, Georgia; Vallonia, Indiana and Ann Arbor, Michigan. She retired after 15 years from Concordia College in Ann Arbor, as accounting supervisor.

She married Robert (Bob) L. Harvey in 1994, who she met through an Arbor Hospice support group after Ralph’s death in 1989. Arlene and Bob built a home south of Manchester and later became one of the first residents of Silver Maples of Chelsea. They enjoyed nearly 13 years of life together, traveling the entire United States, including Alaska and Hawaii. Bob passed away in 2007.

They had been active members of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor and in 2016, Arlene joined Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea. She was active in the music of the churches wherever she was a member – playing the organ at Holy Trinity Lutheran in Rome, Georgia; organizing the Choir at Trinity Lutheran in Vallonia, Indiana; singing in the choir at St. Paul Lutheran in Ann Arbor, Michigan and in later years playing for church services at Silver Maples and at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Chelsea.

She also had enjoyed being in Capital University’s a cappella Chapel Choir as well as with the University of Michigan Choral Union in Ann Arbor. She had also been the accompanist for The Nightingales of St. Paul Lutheran Church. All these volunteer jobs were such a joy and a privilege for her.

It was also a great privilege to study at Elderhostels in various locations in the United States and take classes with the Adult Learners Institute (ALI) of Chelsea MI. She and Bob had enjoyed dancing and playing cards with their various groups as well as being volunteers at the Chelsea Hospital and the Chelsea District Library.

Survivors include her brother-in-law, Ralph Baumbach of Stoughton, Wisconsin; her sister-in-law, Marilyn Dobberstein of Dayton, Ohio; and her children: Tom (Teri) Dobberstein of Fishers, Indiana; daughter-in-law, Alishe Dobberstein of Noblesville, Indiana; Mary (Dan) Ludlum of Columbus, Ohio; and Tim (Barbara) Dobberstein of Chelsea, Michigan. Also surviving are eleven grandchildren: Rachel (Nick) Bryant; Paul (Andria) Dobberstein; Jonathan (Breeshna Javed) Dobberstein; Emily (Ryan) McIntosh; Sarah (Lance) Dardeen; Seth (Megan) Dobberstein; Andrew Dobberstein; Stephen (Heziel) Ludlum; Madeline (Alexander) Goodman; Alex Dobberstein and Jacob Dobberstein; two step-grandchildren, Karen (Joe) Elmendorf, Eric (Tricia) Statler. Fifteen great-grandchildren; 6 step-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild survive, as well. Also surviving are Bob’s four children: John, Merrilie, Libby and Ken and a number of step grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Preceding her in death were her parents; her sister, Wilma Baumbach; her husbands, Ralph and Robert; her son, Gary and grandchildren, Justin Dobberstein and David Ludlum.

An online funeral service with Rev. Dan Pezzica officiating will be available at www.oursaviorchelsea.com and at www.colefuneralchapel.com beginning at noon on Saturday, December 19. A private committal service will be held at Bethlehem Cemetery, Ann Arbor. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1515 S. Main St, Chelsea MI 48118; St. Paul Lutheran Church, 420 W. Liberty St. Ann Arbor, MI 48103 or Silver Maples of Chelsea, 100 Silver Maples Dr., Chelsea MI 48118. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea MI.


Edwin E. Brown
of Chelsea, MI

Age 77, passed away from complications of COVID-19 at Henry Ford Allegiance Health in Jackson, MI on December 8, 2020.

He was born on May 7, 1943 in Dallas, Texas, the son of Albert and Mabel (Ritchie) Brown.

Ed graduated from Chelsea High School in 1961. In 1965, he earned his BA from Michigan State University, and in 1970, he earned his MA from Eastern Michigan University. Ed loved teaching welding, blueprint reading, history, and government for Jackson Public Schools, and for over 37 years, he positively impacted the lives of thousands of students. During his career, he earned numerous honors, including the Outstanding Educator of the Year Award.

Ed was a member of the Chelsea First United Methodist Church. He enjoyed watching his children, and, later, his grandchildren, participate in sporting events and musical programs and he was always their biggest supporter. Ed was an ardent fan of Michigan State University.

He enjoyed golfing and playing cards with good friends, watching movies, traveling, automobiles, current events, and making greeting cards. He was known for his ability to remember historical facts and dates with ease. A great accomplishment was the round house he designed, built, and lived in with his family for 45 years. 

On June 27, 1965, he married Barbara (Davis) and she survives. Other survivors include a daughter, Allison (Michael) Vanderspool of Chelsea; a son, Erik (Kelly Jackson) of Glenview, IL; sisters, Sue Cubberly of Milan and Dr. Kimberly Brown (Tony Glinke) of Ann Arbor; and brother-in-law, Dr. S. Amjad Hussain of Maumee, OH. His pride and joy were his four grandchildren, Drew and Kate Vanderspool and Gavin and Tyler Brown. Ed was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Dorothy Hussain. 

A virtual celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Faith in Action, 603 S. Main Street. Chelsea, MI 48118.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.


Charles A. Young
Chelsea, MI

Age 88, died Sunday, December 13, 2020 at his home.

He was born February 17, 1932 in Cookeville, TN, the son of Freeman and Betha (Loftis) Young.

Charlie served in the US Army (82nd Airborne Division) in Korea during the Korean War. He worked for Chrysler Proving Grounds as a department foreman until his retirement in 1992.  Charlie then started his own excavating company and made ponds and driveways for many people in the surrounding area.

He was a faithful member of St. Mary Catholic Church. He loved hunting, NASCAR races, and sports (especially wrestling and football). Charlie was a member of the NRA.

On Feb. 19, 1955, he married Rosemarie Parker at St. Dominic’s in Detroit, MI, and she preceded him in death on June 13, 2004. He is survived by 4 children; Mary Livingston, Lisa (Ric) Foytik, Michael (Kim) Young, and Chuck Young, all of Chelsea; 6 grandchildren, Koby (Nicole) Foytik, Corrine (Senate) Tailford, Shontay Doyle, Brent (Brandy) Young, Vanessa (Matt) David and Victoria (Aaron) Jameyfield; 13 great-grandchildren, Collin and Charlese Tailford, Max and Isaac Doyle, Ella and Leah David, Kyler Jameyfield, Ben and Derek Young, Vivian and Carson Foytik; and two brothers, David (Dorothy) and Glenn (Cheryl).

A private Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, with Rev. Dr. William Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church or the Wounded Warrior Project.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.


Clark, Barbara Ann (Mshar), 10/2/1935 – 12/6/2020

Barbara Ann (Mshar) Clark, age 85, of Hendersonville, TN passed away December 6, 2020 at her daughter’s home in Nashville, TN.

She was born in Monroe, Michigan and is the daughter of Alexander (Alex) Mshar of St. Louis, MO and Ruth Irene (Fleming) Mshar, of Monroe, MI (both were longtime residents of Chelsea, MI).

On November 7, 1953 she married her childhood sweetheart William Eugene Clark at St. Mary’s Church in Chelsea, Michigan. 

Barbara worked at The Chelsea Dime Store, Vogel’s, The Chelsea Standard, the Chelsea Medical Center as well as private doctor’s offices. She also taught 4-H.

Barbara is survived by her six children. Catherine Cantrell (Bob), Donna Stofer, Mary Jones (Rick), William Clark Jr., Elizabeth Parham (Tom) and Jenny Clark, and Barbara’s younger siblings: Donald Mshar (Becky), Joyce Shaninger (Jack), James Mshar, and Nancy Bihlmeyer (John) and brother-in-law Ronald Clark (Kathy).

Barbara was blessed with 8 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

However, these raw statistics, facts, and dates are not our mother. She was the MATRIARCH of our family and epitomized what it meant to sacrifice for family. She worked hard to take good care of us. She made sure we knew how to cook and taught most of us to sew.

She helped us set up our first homes; she enjoyed driving around to garage sales to find furniture to refinish or reupholster and “make new”. She helped us take care of and raise our kids; she loved to be the first one to teach the new mom how to give the newborn the first bath! She taught her children and grandchildren practical & life lessons & raised extremely capable adults and set the best examples ever!

She was that rare gem that you could LITERALLY bet your life on and was ALWAYS there whenever family was in need as well as for the celebrations, too! She was our biggest cheerleader and did what she could to help us realize our dreams. If a lot of this sounds familiar, it is because she was wise enough to marry a man who did much of the same as well! Together, they were an UNSTOPPABLE team!

She was passionate about genealogy and had a lot of our family history/documents from over the centuries; she said we could join the Daughters of the American Revolution! She was an incredible interior decorator. Every home she lived in could easily be in a House Beautiful type magazine!

She LOVED creating/crafting. Many people have purchased her hand-made St. Nick’s throughout the years at local craft shows; she died on St. Nicolas Day, which confirms to some of us that she really IS Santa Claus.

She was also lifelong fan of the University of Michigan and would attend the games that Bill was ushering; she’d bring along the mid-game feast and often had the section drooling over the meal. She loved to read and passed that love down to her children. She was NOT a hunter and didn’t like the taste of wild game, but would do her best to make it good for her husband, the hunter.

She was a great cook and baker and was known for making outstanding cakes and cookies and fudge to celebrate any holiday or occasion! She was a great gardener; her and Bill’s yard was typically the most beautiful in the neighborhood, perfectly manicured, lush green, with lots of various flowering plants and bushes and trees. She always thought she inherited that gardening gene from her grandfather. And, mom really loved her Schnauzers: Clover, BB, and Carrie; those little rascals were good company throughout the years!

She, too, left big shoes to fill. I doubt we can ever fill those shoes, but we will do our best to make her proud! Her life was full of love and laughter; of family and friends. She will be forever missed. Her memories will forever be treasures in our hearts. We take comfort that her and dad are together again with all the loved ones who’ve already passed.

She was preceded in death by her husband William (Bill) Clark, her parents: Alexander Mshar and Ruth Mshar, her in-laws: Raymond and Gertrude Clark, and her sisters-in-law Verta (Richard) MacDonald and Geri (Jim) Mshar.

Barbara has been cremated. No funeral services will be held at this time due to the Covid 19 pandemic. A celebration of life will take place at a later date.

The family is requesting memorial contributions to be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave. Fl.17, Chicago, IL. 60601; http://act.alz.org/donate.


Ruth Rumpf (nee Livingston), aged 99, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2020.

She was born February 26, 1921 in Elma a daughter of the late Leon and Velma Livingston.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William Rumpf of 29 years and her brother Reese Livingston, and great-grandson Coltyn Favre.

A loving and quiet woman, Ruth devoted her life to taking care of others. She served as a nurse in the Navy in World War II as a Lieutenant J.G. (junior grade) in Pearl Harbor. Her career as a nurse spanned 1941-1987 years, during which she was very conscientious in serving her patients with dignity, respect and true compassion.

Ruth was a quiet soul but her smile was warm and would light up the room. She loved her family, and was devoted to daughter Mary and her four grandsons Michael, Garrett, Alex, and Mark. She was a talented painter and her artwork will always be treasured by her family.

In 2016, Ruth moved from Elma, WA to Ann Arbor, MI with her daughter and son-in-law so that they could be closer to her great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her daughter Mary and her son-in-law Cole Favre; Four grandsons, Michael (Bridget) Favre, Garret (Rachel) Favre, Alex (Mia) Favre, and Mark Favre; and 7 great-grandchildren.

Special thanks to the wonderful doctors, nurses and staff at Kresge Center in the UMRC Chelsea Retirement Community who provided invaluable care to Ruth during her time there.


Veronica C. Paddock
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 76, passed away Monday, December 7, 2020 at her home surrounded in love by her family.

She was born October 25, 1944 in Dexter, Michigan, the daughter of William and Grace (Koch) Ledwidge. She was raised on her family’s centennial farm in Dexter, of which she was so proud and truly loved.

Veronica graduated from Dexter High School in 1962.

She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea for about 45 years. Veronica’s Catholic faith guided her soul all her life and that continues in the fabric of her family, which was so important to her. She retired from University of Michigan in 2007. After retirement she enjoyed making stained glass for her family members. She also enjoyed gardening, reading, baking and watching the blue birds and hummingbirds around her home. Veronica loved her grandkids and enjoyed following all their sports and activities.

On April 21st, 1967, she married William Donald Paddock and he survives. They shared 53 beautiful years of love and laughter together. Other survivors include her son, Brett (Cynthia) Paddock of Michigan Center, three daughters, Tina (Todd) Doering also of Michigan Center, Beth (Dean) Boote of Gregory, and Jenny (Rich) Samon of Chelsea; one surviving family member, her sister, Marie Coy of Michigan Center; her grandchildren, Alex and Dawson Doering, Grace Boote, Colin and Nathan Paddock, Logan, Ella, Ava, Garrett and Harper Samon and her great grandson, Westley Collins. Veronica was preceded in death by her grandson, Jake Boote as well as her siblings, Norman, Joseph, Edwin, Jack, Cecilia and Elizabeth.

A funeral mass will be held Friday, December 11, 11:00 AM at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, with V. Rev. Dr. William J Canon Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends before the funeral from 10-11 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Arbor Hospice, 2366 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48103. The family would like to thank Sondra, Lauren, and Becky as well as all of the wonderful hospice and care giver staff that provided loving care for Veronica during this last year.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


“Ravi” Ravindranath S. Desai
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 56, passed away unexpectedly due to natural causes on Friday, December 4, 2020 at his home.

He was born July 18, 1964 in Toledo, Ohio, the son of Shivajirao “Shiva” Govindrao and Marlene (Peters) Desai.

Ravi graduated from Swartz Creek High School in 1982. He studied Computer Science at U of M-Flint, graduating in 1986, and received his Masters in Mathematics at EMU in 1995. Ravi was a software architect at CareEvolution in Ann Arbor. He was an active and faithful member of the Chelsea Free Methodist Church.

Ravi was a member of several computer groups in Ann Arbor. He enjoyed his Thursday lunch dates with his wife, baking bread from fresh ground grain, reading science fiction, playing Dungeons and Dragons, riding bikes, doing puzzles with his family (the harder the better), and a family book club as well. Ravi was a loving and caring husband and father. He considered his children his greatest accomplishment.

Ravi met his wife, Bonnie Price, on a blind date. On Nov. 5, 1988, they were married, and she survives. Other survivors include three sons, Alexander (Amy) of Brighton, Emerson of Chelsea, Walker of Chelsea; two siblings, Lata (Erik) VonBrockdorff, and Jay (Michelle) Desai; many nieces and nephews; and his beloved in-laws in the Price family.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel on Sunday, December 13. Due to Covid restrictions, please call 734-475-1551 to schedule a time to greet the family.

In lieu of flowers, a Go Fund Me account has been set up for a college fund for their sons:  In Memory of Ravi Desai (gofundme.com)

Due to COVID, a private funeral will be held, and the video from that service will be posted on our website (colefuneralchapel.com/index.php/obits/990-ravi-ravindranath-s-desai) on Sunday, Dec. 13th.


Tressie Lea Preston
who lived at Wellbridge of Pinckney in Michigan

Passed away November 18, 2020, at Arbor Hospice in Saline, Michigan. She would have turned 93 on her December 1 birthday.

Tressie was born in Elkview, WV, to Alda and James Cooper and was the 10th of 12 children.

In 1949, she married Charles Everett Preston and they spent most of their life together in Bridgeport, WV. Simpson Creek Baptist Church was a central focus of their life and Tressie enjoyed sewing. 

Survivors are her daughter, Rebecca Preston Tisch, and husband, Randy, of Ann Arbor, Michigan, and granddaughter, Kathryn Tisch Shah, and her husband, Neal, of Rayleigh, NC. Tressie is predeceased by her husband, Charles, and daughter, Mary Sue Preston, of Charleston, WV.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Kathleen Ruth Smith-Klem
of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Trenton and Lincoln Park, MI

Age 92, passed away suddenly Wednesday, December 2, 2020 in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

She was born April 26, 1928 in Van Wert, Ohio, the daughter of Ralph and Nellie Ruth (Harrison) Armstrong.

Kathleen graduated from Lincoln Park High School, and earned her Bachelors and Masters in Education from Eastern Michigan University. She taught in the Lincoln Park School district in Elementary and for the learning disabled until 1985. Kathleen loved to golf at the Westshore Golf Club in Grosse Isle. She enjoyed Euchre, bridge, playing cards in general, and clothes shopping. Kathleen was complimented by all on her beautiful clothes. She also enjoyed spending time with her friends.

In 1950, she married Geoffrey Kester Smith, also a teacher and coach in the Lincoln Park School district, and he preceded her in death in 1984. She married Chester Klem in 1986, and he preceded her in death in 2020. She is survived by her sons, Doug (Karen Woollams) Smith of Chelsea, Ron (Laurie) Smith of Pinckney; a sister, Sylvia Gardocki of Lincoln Park; 3 grandchildren, Rose Smith-Woollams, Geoffrey Smith-Woollams, Jessica (Aaron) Chester, and a nephew, Chris. She was preceded in death by her biological parents, and her step-father, Corda Horton.

A memorial service will be held in the Spring of 2021. Burial will take place at Michigan Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions may be made to Faith in Action.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Richard L. “Dicky” Smith
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 76, transitioned to Heaven on Saturday, November 28, 2020 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Chelsea.

He was born January 3, 1944 in Hillsdale, MI, the son of Richard Arthur and Ethel Marie (Sanders) Smith. He had two sisters, Diane Wieland who preceded him in death, and Janet Ward, who survives.

Dicky graduated from Jackson High School in 1962. During his working life, he had various jobs, but Dicky was most proud of his career at Chrysler Proving Grounds. Dicky started that career in 1972 at various positions until he landed at the wind tunnel team as driver/mechanic. He proudly honored that position until his retirement in 2002, with the knowledge of a job well done.

He became a member of the First Congregational Church of Chelsea in 1999 and always had a smile and a handshake. He was most proud of his role as head of building and grounds. He loved working with the youth on mission trips, showing his talent, wisdom and teaching the value of hard work, always with a smile and a wink.

Dicky volunteered at Chelsea Community Hospital as a shuttle driver. He was President of Sylvan Hills Estates Property Owners Association. He designed and built the home he and Linda have resided in since 1988. He built with pride a ’32 Ford and just finished a ’41 Plymouth. He enjoyed being a car guy, woodworking, fishing, 60’s music, word finds, along with keeping his lawn immaculate. Dicky’s family and friends were incredibly important to him. His positive spirit and engaging wit improved the lives of people around him.

On December 27, 1975, he met the love of his life – his soul-mate, Linda and eight months later they were married on August 21, 1976 at the Arbor Grove Congregational Church in Jackson. Dicky and Linda, with only determination and a force of unbelievable love, became a family with 5 children, 4 girls and 1 boy who ranged in ages of 12, 11, 10, 9, and 6 years old. That union created a wonderful family.

Survivors include his wife, Linda, with 44 years of marriage; Shelley (Neal) Young of Oklahoma, Patti (Gar) Deyoe of Chelsea, Charles “Chuck” Garrison Jr. of Rapid City, Lori (Bobby) Hall of Jackson, Cindy (Dennis) Hoffman of Cement City, 14 grandchildren, Stacey (Scott), Stephanie (Kevin), Jennifer (Aaron), Christopher (Deanna), Trey (Kaitlyn), Amee (Chase), Janie (Cody), Morgan, Ashley, Olivia, Chelsey, Cameron, Collin and Sam. 14 great-grandchildren, Lyla, Elsie, June, Gabriel, Noah, Christopher, Hannah, Haley, Kaylee, Brendan, Kayden, Tucker, Callie and Bricen.

We give heart-filled gratitude to Linda’s sister, Jeanine Lasovage; and a special thank you to Dr. Rebecca Patrias, Dr. Edward Kreske, and all of Dicky’s health care team of many years.

A graveside service will be held Thursday, December 3, 1:00 p.m., at Oak Grove East Cemetery, with Pastor Joe Jeffreys officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Congregational Church, St. Joseph Mercy Chelsea ICU, or the Chelsea Area Fire Authority.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.



Sharleen Eisenbeiser
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 82, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 24, 2020 in Chelsea, Michigan.

She was born June 1, 1938 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Everett G. and Beatrice A. (Job) Seamans.

Shar graduated from Ypsilanti High School in 1956. She attended U of M Nursing school, graduating in 1960. Shar worked as a nurse at U of M for a few years, and then as a public health nurse in the Flint area.

She left nursing to raise her children, then went to work at Chelsea Community Hospital as a Unit Secretary in the early 80’s, and retired after 25 years. Shar was an active member of Chelsea First United Methodist Church for over 50 years, and worked on various committees and fund raisers.

She was a member of PEO, Adult Learning Institute, which she helped start, and Chelsea Seniors, serving on the board for several years. Shar and Bill were members of the Inverness Country Club. She was active in the U of M Nurses Alumni, and in several bridge groups.

Shar enjoyed bike riding, tennis, cross country skiing, and gardening. Shar and Bill enjoyed going to their cabin up north, and traveling, especially with their grandkids.

On August 18, 1962, she married William “Bill” Eisenbeiser and he survives. Other survivors include a daughter, Amy (Joel) Craig of Gregory; a son, Kurt (Victoria) Eisenbeiser of Virginia; a brother, Ronald (Marie) Seamans of Holland, MI; 5 grandchildren, Amanda (Jacob) Gould, Jessica (Caleb) Ford, Jennifer (Peter) Lopez, Logan Eisenbeiser, Alanna Eisenbeiser; and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of her life will be held in the Spring of 2021.

Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea First United Methodist Church or the Chelsea Senior Center.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Michael Claude Gipson
of Jackson, Michigan

Age 56, died Tuesday, November 24, 2020 in Jackson.

He was born February 27, 1964, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Claude J. Gipson and Mary Jo (Apel) Boyer.

Mike graduated from Chelsea High School in 1982, and worked at Terumo from 1988 until the time of his death. Mike enjoyed bowling at Chelsea Lanes and was an avid Playstation gamer.

Mike is survived by his daughter, Kristy Gipson of Jackson, and her mom, Kathy Gipson of Jackson; his mother, Mary Jo Boyer of Grass Lake; brother, David (Mary) Gipson of Grass Lake; nephew, Jon Gipson; niece, Jamie (Kyle) Wolf; and grand-nephew, Lukas Wolf. He was preceded in death by his father.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, November 28, 2020, 1:30 p.m. at Maple Grove Cemetery in  Sylvan Center. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel on Saturday, November 28, 2020. Due to Covid restrictions, please call 475-1551 to schedule a time to greet the family. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Susan Lynn Kruse
Jackson, MI

Age 68, died Friday, November 20, 2020 at Henry Ford Allegiance Hospital.

She was born August 19, 1952 in Adrian, Michigan, the daughter of Gerald and Shirley Jean (Thurman) Bower.

Susan graduated from Manchester High School in 1971. She ran an in-home daycare for over 25 years. When Susan and her husband, Jim, moved to Jackson, she worked for Lowes for over 10 years before she retired. Susan provided a safe, welcoming home for her girls’ friends. She was an avid crocheter, and enjoyed bingo and bowling. Susan loved animals and always had cats in the house.

On January 27, 1973, she married James Alfred Kruse in Manchester, and he survives. She is also survived by her daughters, Julie Kruse of Jackson, Diana (Zach Teitler) Kruse of Boise, ID, Donna Wahr of Jackson; 4 grandchildren, Michael Wahr, Jason Wahr, James Teitler and Cordelia Teitler. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Mark, Stanley, and Ralph.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel on Tuesday, November 24. Due to Covid restrictions, please call 475-1551 to schedule a time to greet the family. A celebration of life will be held in the Spring.


John Lewis Frank passed away November 11, 2020 in Kalamazoo, Michigan at the age of 85.

He was born August 12, 1935 in Lander, Wyoming, the eldest child of Victor and Loretta (Winchester) Frank.

John grew up in Wyoming and graduated from Dubois High School in 1952. He graduated from the University of Wyoming 1956 with a degree in Physics. His first job after graduation was in the Applied Physics Department at DuPont in Wilmington, Delaware. As an agricultural engineer, he went on to work for Barnes Engineering, John Deere, International Harvester, Clark Equipment, and in later years Thomas Group Consulting of Troy, Michigan, where he retired in 2000.

He married Darlene Sue Hill in 1964. They divorced in 1979. He married Jacquelyn Ann Montague in 1980 and remained married to her until her death in 2011.

John loved life and had such an optimistic attitude towards it. A tall, gentle spirit, he was a man of action. At a young age, John developed a life-long obsession with trains. He had several other interests throughout his life, including motorcycles and cars, farming, traveling, restoration, and the fine arts. He valued education and was a member of Mensa.

John spent many years on the racing circuit as a hobby. His biggest accomplishments were placing 1st in the Solo II Championship with his Saab Sonnet in 1973, and placing 10th in the E Production class at the SCCA National Championships at Road Atlanta 1975 with his MGB.

Together with his wife Jackie, John restored their 100-year-old Victorian home in Chelsea, Michigan, and registered it on the National Register of Historic Places. He was actively involved in his community and was President of Preservation Chelsea for many years. In 2011 he was named Chelsea Citizen of the Year.

He never missed a family reunion. Whether Wyoming or in later years South Carolina, John always insisted on driving long hours across the country to see his kin. He traveled extensively in retirement with his companion Gloria Pierce, visiting family and friends coast to coast, and even to Scotland for a wedding.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Dwain Earl Frank, a son George Victor Frank, and his wife Jacquelyn. He is survived by his two daughters Jane Frank of Oklahoma City, OK and Jennifer (Jim) Hendrixson of Portage, Michigan; 8 grandchildren: Georgia, Emily, Jonathan, and Alexander Fruendt, Austin (Ashley) Carlson, Christopher Hendrixson, Taylor (Joe) Cornelius, and Samantha (Ryan) Cook, 2 great-grandchildren, Nolan and Jordan Cornelius, a nephew Donald (Brenda) Frank, two nieces Kathy (Bob) Van Riper and Brenda (Delvin) Hyatt, plus 4 great-nephews and nieces, and 6 great-great nephews and nieces.

John’s ashes will be buried at the Linwood Cemetery in Norway, Iowa next to his beloved wife of 32 years, Jackie, and at the Mountain View Cemetery in Riverton, Wyoming, next to his parents, brother, and son.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in John’s name to the University of Michigan Saturday Morning Physics Lecture Series to help fund informative academic presentations at  https://donate.umich.edu/d5aej


Mary Ann Johnston
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 89, died Saturday, November 14, 2020 at the Arbor Hospice Residence in Saline.

She was born January 11, 1931 in Albion, Nebraska, the daughter of John “Jack” A. and Etta (Pape) Mannlein.

Mary Ann attended elementary school at St. Joseph Catholic School, and graduated from Dexter High School in 1949. On January 13, 1951, she married Norman G. Johnston at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dexter, and he survives. She was a dedicated wife and mother, she enjoyed sewing and cooking. Mary Ann was a member of the Altar Society at St. Joseph for many years. Mary Ann and Norm enjoyed vacationing at their property in northern Michigan.

In addition to her husband, Mary Ann is also survived by her children: Peggy A. Tripp of Virginia Beach; VA, Karen M. (Anderson Brown) Johnston of Ann Arbor; Diane L. Wilson of Howell; James N. (Deborah) Johnston of Ft. Myers, FL; Kenneth A. (Violet) Johnston of Chelsea; Catherine M. (James) Jackson of Ypsilanti; David L. (Theresa Street) Johnston of Norfolk, VA; and one sister JeNelda Naylor of Dexter; 11 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by one brother, Duane Mannlein and one sister, Janice L. Ano.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dexter, with Fr. Brendan J. Walsh officiating. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in Dexter. The family will receive friends Tuesday, Nov. 17 at Cole Funeral Chapel. Due to Covid restrictions, please call 734-475-1551 to schedule a time to greet the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church (Stairway to Future campaign), 3470 Dover St, Dexter MI 48130.


Shirley J. Case
Chelsea, MI, formerly of Grass Lake

Age 88, passed away Wednesday, November 11, 2020 at her home in Chelsea with her family.

She was born April 19, 1932 at her home in Waterloo, MI, the daughter of Elmo L. and Zella B. (McConnell) LeVan.

Shirley graduated from Chelsea High School. She worked at Ford Motor Company until the kids were born, and later worked at H & H Distributing for many years until her retirement. Shirley was a lifetime member of Waterloo United Methodist Church, where she was a Sunday School teacher, lead the youth group, and taught VBS for many years.

She enjoyed playing Bunco at the Pines. Shirley crocheted many afghans and played Euchre. The most important thing to her was her family.

On June 11, 1955, she married Cas A. Case and he preceded her in death on August 23, 2009. Survivors include a son, Paul (Sheila) Case of Conroe, TX; a daughter, Nancy Zander of Chelsea; two sisters, Virginia Harvey of Rochester, MI, Yvonne Adkins of Apache Junction, AZ; 11 grandchildren, Scott, Craig, Robert, Misty, Melynda, Nathan, Colleen, Nicole, Tonya, Josh, Talor; 14 great-grandchildren, Jackson, Penelope, Natalie, Dominic, Ryley, Wyatt, Mackenzie, Audrey, Matthew, Robyn, Davin, Jamare, Emily, CJ Jr.; 3 great-great-grandchildren, Bentley, Kennedy, Rylon; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by one son, Eric S. Case in 1985; a daughter Betty Watts-Milutin in 2000, her 6 year old sister, Phyllis, a sister, June Stork in 1993 and two brothers, Duane LeVan, and Alan LeVan.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel on Sunday, November 15.  Due to Covid restrictions, please call 475-1551 to schedule a time to greet the family. A private graveside service will be held Monday at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Waterloo, with Rev. Mary Barrett officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Waterloo United Methodist Church, 8110 Washington St, Grass Lake, Michigan 49240.


D. David Redic
of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Dayton, OH

Age 75, died suddenly and unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 13, 2020 at the U of M Hospital.

He was born July 18, 1945 in Long Island, New York, the son of Donald Carl and Geraldine (Semple) Redic.

Dave graduated from Mercer High School in 1963, and then Grove City College, Ohio University, and Wright State University. He had a variety of professions. Dave worked in air pollution control and environmental regulation and enforcement. He was also an entrepreneur who owned his own business. Dave valued hard work of any sort, and he was a respected manager across his many jobs.

Dave had strong values which were reflected in his loyalty to his family, and his reliability in his routine and habits. He volunteered after he retired as a way to give back and to honor his values. His volunteering included working at a food pantry, transporting senior citizens, and donating blood. Dave was an avid gardener, and loved to be outdoors, swimming, biking, and running. He enjoyed traveling with friends, playing cards, and weekly pool games at the Senior Center. Dave was full of life, humor and good cheer. He loved being a husband, father, and grandfather, where his values live on.

Dave married his high school sweetheart, Diane Miller, to whom he was devoted for 58 years of marriage. He is also survived by two daughters, Kimberly Redic of Dexter, Margaret “Maggie” (James Hicks) Redic of San Francisco, CA; three grandchildren, Emma Kill, Benjamin Kill, and Stella Kill; two sisters, Lacey (Kirk) Young of Toledo, OH, and Lynn Slater of Grove City, PA.

Private services were held.

Memorial contributions may be made to Faith in Action (Chelsea, MI), or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


David James Hammel
of Pleasant Lake, MI, formerly of Munith and Chelsea

Age 53, passed away peacefully Friday, October 30, 2020 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor following a short illness.

He was born May 28, 1967 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of James W. and Doris Jean (McKellar) Hammel. David graduated from Chelsea High School in 1985, and attended Washtenaw Community College. He worked as a Customs Compliance Specialist at Gnutti Carlo USA (formerly MS Precision) in Webberville.

David loved hunting and fishing. His biggest joy in life was fishing with his son, Russell. He played guitar, and loved family music get-togethers, campfires, and watching sunrises and sunsets. He also wrote beautiful poems. He touched the hearts of many, and will be missed.

He is survived by his father, Jim; his son, Russell; Karen Hammel; his siblings, Deidre Marie (Stephen) Emmert, Daniel Lawrence (Debra) Hammel and Karin Sue Carlson; and many nieces and nephews, Cody, Daryn, Alyssa, Katherine, Amanda, and very special friend Lorrie Paxton. He was preceded in death by his mother, Doris, in 2017.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the Spring of 2021.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Laura Mary Harper
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 102, died Tuesday, November 3, 2020, at Chelsea Retirement Community.

She was born June 29, 1918, in Dexter Township, the daughter of Gustav and Mary (Schneider) Leuneberg.

Laura graduated from Dexter High School in 1936, and Cleary College. She worked as a bookkeeper at Harper Electric until her retirement in 1980. Laura was active with the First United Methodist Church in Ann Arbor. During their retirement, Laura and her husband Herb loved to travel in their motorhome. It was very important to both of them to help other people.

On Aug. 9, 1941, she married Herbert “Herb” Howard Harper in Ann Arbor, and he preceded her in death on December 7, 2015. Survivors include a son, Richard (Karen Luse) Harper of Portland, Maine; a daughter, Mary (Philip) Borkowski of Ann Arbor; 2 grandchildren, Laura H. (Lauren Mier) Harper, Helen (Brian) Ayotte; 2 great-grandchildren, Evelyn & Florence Ayotte; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by all six of her siblings.

Memorial services will be held at a later time. Burial will be with Herb at Washtenong Memorial Gardens in Ann Arbor.

Memorial contributions may be made to UMRC Foundation, 805 W. Middle St, Chelsea, MI 48118, Arbor Hospice, 2366 Oak Valley Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48103 or the charity of your choice.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


David Edward Manning
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 76, died Sunday, November 1, 2020 at his home.

He was born July 7, 1944 in Hillman, Michigan, the son of Benjamin and Rebecca Agnes (Nichols) Manning.

David graduated from Hillman High School in 1962, and went on to Muskegon Business College to become a CPA. David served in the army in Vietnam. He worked as a CPA his whole life, until 2007, when he became CFO for Bedford Township. He retired from Bedford Township in June, 2020.

David was a member of Chelsea First United Methodist Church. He loved their hunting cabin on the Pine River, where he enjoyed hunting, 4-wheeling, and spending time with friends and family.

On September 5, 1965, he married Janice Rae Carley in Cooks, MI, and she survives. He is also survived by a daughter, Leslie Manning of Ann Arbor; a son, Benjamin (Shannon) Manning of PA; 3 grandchildren, Dante Armstrong, Elliet Manning, and Kameron Manning. He was preceded in death by his brother and sister-in-law, Edward and Donna Manning.

No services will be held due to Covid restrictions.

Memorial contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity, 618 S Creyts Rd Ste A, Lansing, MI 48917.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Helen Marie Oliver
of Ann Arbor

Age 76, died Wednesday, October 28, 2020 at Hillside Terrace in Ann Arbor.

She was born February 7, 1944, in Monroe, Michigan, the daughter of Henry and  Clara (Vanisacker) D’Haene. Helen graduated one year early from St. Mary’s Academy in Monroe in 1960. She attended EMU (where she met Jimmy) and also took accounting classes at Cleary College. She was a bookkeeper for several businesses in Ann Arbor including the Big 10 Party Store (for over 20 years), Red Bull, Paesano Resturant, and HSA Builders in Saline.

She was very active in the Ann Arbor Moose Lodge. She attended St. Andrew’s United Church of Christ in Dexter with her daughter. She liked to read, and enjoyed gardening and canning with her family. She raised several dogs over the years. Most importantly, she was a very supportive mother and grandmother, and enjoyed activities with her granddaughters.

On June 15, 1963, she married Jimmy Oliver at St. Michael Catholic Church in Monroe, and he preceded her in death on Jan 7, 2017. Survivors include her daughter Carolyn (Ray) Lowery of Dexter; a brother, Joseph D’Haene; 2 granddaughters, Alyssa (Jack) Keena, Kristin Lowery; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; 2 brothers, George and Julius; and a sister, Mary Ann Knight.

A private memorial service will be held at Cole Funeral Chapel, with Rev. Charles Bigelow officiating. Burial will be at Arborcrest in Ann Arbor.

Memorial contributions may be made to Elara Caring or the Michigan Medicine Alzheimer’s Care Center.


Nancy (Clark) Herman entered this world on December 17th, 1928 and departed for the next life on October 19th, 2020 two months shy of her 92nd birthday.

Nancy was married to Perry “Carl” Herman who preceded her in death. Together they raised daughter Michele Shannon (Tim) and sons Steve (Lysa), Dave and Eric (Helen).

A lifelong member of First Baptist Church in Jackson, Nancy was involved in the church music programs and passed her love of music on to her four children. Nancy spent years singing with Tuesday Musicale where she served as a past President. She was also a past president of the Michigan Women’s Dental Society.

Another passion of Nancy’s was genealogy. She made numerous trips across this nation and abroad in search of her “roots”. She was known for her positive spirit and welcoming heart. She was always able to maintain a positive outlook even in dire times. Her philosophy was “bloom where you are planted”. She once said, “even in its longest days, life is short”. Something for all of us to keep in mind.

Nancy is survived by grandchildren Brendan (Jen), Harlowe and Trevor Shannon (Megan), James, Ben and Aarika Herman. Great grandchildren Avery Shannon and Khari Harrison. Nancy was preceded in death by her parents Velvah and Lloyd Clark, and sisters Virginia Clark Creglow and Jane Ann Clark Keen. Even in death Nancy decided to help others after she was gone by making a tissue donation.

A celebration of Nancy’s life will take place at a later date.

Please consider donating to the charity of your choice in remembrance of Nancy and signing up to be a tissue donor. God bless!


Ramona Irene Skittenhelm
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 87, died Friday, October 23, 2020 at the Chelsea Retirement Community.

She was born December 9, 1932 in Knobel, Arkansas, the daughter of Charles Lee Shores and Freda G. Cole.

Ramona moved to Ann Arbor at 9 years old with her mother. She graduated from Ann Arbor High School in 1950. Ramona worked at Michigan Bell as an operator.

On June 11, 1952, she married John Skittenhelm in Toledo, Ohio, and later moved to Chelsea, where they raised their three children. From 1969-93, she worked at University Microfilms International, later called Bell & Howell, where she was a lead Quality Control. After retiring, Ramona and John traveled all over the US, and would spend winters in Gulf Shores, AL.

Ramona enjoyed reading, and going for walks. She loved her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include 3 children, Thomas (Ronda) Skittenhelm of Gregory, Julie Day of Chelsea, Susan (William) Callaway of Manchester; 6 grandchildren, Kelsey and Kendra Skittenhelm, Amy (Scott) Day- Yaede, Cara (Brian) Callaway-Lucier, Matthew (Tiffany) Callaway, Ian (Katie) Callaway; 3 great-grandchildren, Jack and Vivian  Callaway, Gavin Lucier; and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her husband, John in 2015.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, October 28 at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea. Due to Covid restrictions, please call the funeral home at 734-475-1551 to schedule a time to visit. A private grave side service will be held at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Arbor Hospice.


Sharon Joan (Hartman) Stillion
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 55, passed away in her sleep in the morning of Thursday, October 22, 2020 at her home.

She was born March 21, 1965 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the youngest daughter of C. C. “Cliff” and Doris Mae (Ahling) Hartman.

After graduating from Grass Lake High School in 1983, she went on to Jackson Community College where she obtained her Certified Nursing Assistant diploma. After working in assisted living communities in the Jackson, MI area, she found full-time employment at the Chelsea Hospital as a CNA. She transitioned from the patient care field into the position of Front Desk Operator and retired from the hospital with 25 years employment.

Sharon was immensely proud knowing many doctors, nurses, and other staff members through her work at the switchboard. She also set a very high standard of dependability, work ethic, and customer service at the hospital. Over the last several years, Sharon worked part-time at Stillion Industries in Chelsea. In her spare time, she enjoyed crafting, hosting big dinners, being with her family, and ordering merchandise from catalogs. We were the recipients of various gifts and gadgets through the years as Sharon saw something “she thought we should have”.

In July, 1986, she married Keith M. Stillion, and for the past 19 years they lived on South Lake, Chelsea. In addition to her husband of 34 years, Sharon is survived by her loving  sisters,  Bonnie  Milkey-Riggs, Sandra J. Pierce, and Beverly (Bill) Paul; mother-in-law, Shirley Stillion; sister-in-law, Linda Hudson; cousins, Carol Britten and Renee Thelen; many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews, and her special friend, Missy Loring. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers-in-law, Larry Pierce and Thomas Riggs, father-in-law, Chuck Stillion, and great-nephew Charlie Paul.

Although Sharon was diagnosed at the age of 9 with Type 1 (Juvenile) Diabetes, she overcame many medical obstacles and lived a life of determination and resilience. She laughed heartily, loved deeply, and will forever be in our hearts. 

Funeral services will be private. Burial will take place in the spring at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Diabetes Association, 20700 Civic Center Dr Ste 100, Southfield, MI 48076.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Linda Sue Wilson
Manchester, MI, formerly of Southgate

Age 74, died Monday, October 19, 2020 at her home.

She was born July 7, 1946 in Tupelo, Mississippi, the daughter of Thomas Ivan and Delcie Orene (Barber) Bowles.

Linda graduated from Riverview High School in 1964. She was a proud mother, grandmother and homemaker. She was a strong Christian woman who put her faith, family and friends as her top priorities.

Linda started a Bunco club in 1972, that is still going strong today. She was an avid quilter providing beautiful heirlooms to her family and friends. She loved to travel and visited much of the United States and several national parks. Linda was a member of the Manchester Area Historical Society and of the Sharon United Methodist Church. She was a former member of the Dorcas Society

Linda married her high school sweetheart, James Kimball Wilson, Jr.  on August 19, 1964, in Riverview, Michigan, and he survives. Linda is also survived by one daughter, Shari (David) Luckey of Ann Arbor; one brother, Thomas A. (Laura) Bowles of Tupelo, Mississippi; four grandchildren, Jay (Devin), Anya, Isabella, and Luke Luckey; several nieces and nephews; and seven honorary grandchildren, Emily, Matthew and Alyssa Stark, Grace, Hannah, Jacob and Dylan LaFromboise. Linda was preceded in death by her son, James Wilson III, her parents, and her infant sister, Barbara Diane Bowles.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Oct. 24, 2:00 p.m. at the Sharon United Methodist Church hall, with Pastor Peter Harris officiating. Burial will follow at Rowes Corners Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church Friday from 3-8 p.m. and Saturday from 1-2 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Sharon United Methodist Church, 19980 Pleasant Lake Rd, Manchester, MI 48158 or the Hemophilia Foundation of Michigan, 1921 W Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti, MI 48197.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Ruth Adele Kuit Paul, longtime resident of Western Springs, Illinois, died peacefully in Chelsea, Michigan on October 11, 2020, surrounded by family.

Born in Zeeland, Michigan November 7, 1932 to parents Mabel Coburn Kuit and Henry Kuit, D.D.S., Ruth grew up surrounded by extended family. A valedictorian at Zeeland High School, she attended Hope College for two years, then completed training at Presbyterian Hospital School of Nursing in Chicago, IL. While in training, she met Dr. Harold Paul, whom she married in March of 1955.

Ruth’s calling was caring for her family as spouse, mother, and grandmother. With Harold, she raised four sons and served as matriarch, heart, and soul for the Paul family. Sustained by an abiding faith and a grateful spirit, she was a longtime member of the Western Springs Baptist Church. She volunteered tutoring children and visiting shut-in seniors, and she found joy in family gatherings, musical offerings by her children and grandchildren, and nature, especially trees, birds, and wildflowers.

Ruth told her grandchildren that there are three things in life that are very important. The first is to be kind, the second is to be kind, and the third is to be kind. She might not be the first person to say this, but she lived it every day.

Ruth was preceded in death by her husband Harold and her parents. She is survived by her sister Mary McCallum (married to John), sons James (married to Nancy Simmons, children Alison (Zachary Taylor), Mary (Aaron Hale-Dorrell), Caitlin (Patrick O’Brien) and Carolyn), Timothy, William (married to Tanya Surawicz, children Austin, Joanna, and Henry), and Mark (married to Hsin-I Chang, children Jason and Stephen), and five great-grandchildren.

The family is grateful for care provided by the dedicated staff at Plymouth Place, La Grange Park, IL, as well as Arbor Hospice, Ann Arbor, MI.

A memorial service will be arranged in Western Springs at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, consider a gift in Ruth’s memory to the Morton Arboretum in Lisle, Illinois, Blind Service Association in Chicago, Illinois, or the charity of your choice.

Above all, be kind.


Carl Ventimiglia
Chelsea, MI

Age 76, died Tuesday, October 13, 2020 at Birchwood Manor in Ann Arbor.

He was born January 11, 1944 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Carlo and Maria (Tringali) Ventimiglia.

Carl was an Engineer Technologist for Ford Motor Company in Dearborn. He was a US veteran, serving in Korea. In 1978, Carl married Nancy E. Abfalter, and she survives. Other survivors include his brother, Daniel (June) Ventimiglia, and many nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, October 24, 11:00 am at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, Michigan with Fr. Ron Jozwiak officiating.  The family will receive friends at the church from 10-11 am. Burial will be at Holy Sepulchre in Southfield.

Memorial contributions may be made to Mickey and Me in Chelsea, MI.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.


Margaret Jane (Doyle) Smith
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 72, died Tuesday, October 13, 2020 at the U of M Hospital.

She was born August 12, 1948 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Frederick J. and Winifred L. (Thornton) Doyle.

Margaret graduated from St. Thomas High School in Ann Arbor in 1966. She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea. Margaret was a happy mother and homemaker who enjoyed her mystery novels. She raised 5 kids, and enjoyed her 5 grandkids.

On June 6, 1970, she married Joseph H. Smith in Plymouth, and he survives. She is also survived by her 5 children, Joseph L. (Wendi) of Westland, Michael L. (Dr. Cara) of W. Bloomfield, Megan M. (Daniel) Long of Chelsea, Mark F. (Brooke) of Ypsilanti, Amanda J. Smith of Chelsea; her brother, Timothy (Christine) Doyle of Dixboro; her sister, Katherine “Kay” (Charles) Mida of FL; 5 grandchildren, Margaret, Natalie, Oliver, Ainsley, Padraig “PJ”; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her brother, Patrick J. Doyle.

A Funeral Mass will be held Monday, October 19, 11:00 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the church from 10-11:00 am before the funeral.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Michigan Right to Life. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Paul Anthony Daoust
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 83, died Saturday, October 10, 2020 at his home at the Pines in Chelsea.

He was born September 14, 1937 in Plymouth, Michigan, the son of John and Florence (Hebert) Daoust.

Paul was a very hard working man providing for his wife and five children. His skills as an iron worker took him across the country from the crew assembling the Seattle Space Needle, to the bridges spanning the Ohio River in Cincinnati, and finally back to Michigan.

As a proud member of the UAW, he worked for many years in Skilled Trades at the GMC transmission plant in Ypsilanti. Paul and his wife Marilyn’s home was often referred to as “The Chelsea Hotel” where they always welcomed extended family with open arms, especially during the summer.

He treated everyone as his friend. He enjoyed keeping up his yard, small garden and pool. Paul also very much love to read. Paul was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea.

In November 1960, he married Marilyn Flynn. She preceded him in death on September 14, 2020. He is survived by two sons, John (Jennifer) Flynn of Livonia, Paul F. Daoust of Lincoln Park; three daughters, Colleen (Edwin) Hettinger of Portage, Mary Pederson of Oxford, Kelly (Chris) Decerbo of Rustin, LA; a sister, Jean Hall of Leesburg, VA; 8 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by 4 brothers, 4 sisters, and one grandchild.

A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, Oct. 16, 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.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.


Nettie Esther Severn
Chelsea, MI

Age 91, died Sunday, October 11, 2020 at her home.

She was born September 2, 1929 in Saginaw, MI, the daughter of Edwin F. and Irene (Yokuty) Greenleaf.

Nettie was a member of Chelsea First United Methodist Church. She volunteered over 6,000 hours at Chelsea Community Hospital, and was Auxiliary President from 1988-1989. Nettie worked with her husband Pete in their home business.

She loved playing solitaire, reading, and traveling. Nettie liked golfing at many different courses. Every year they spent their winters on Estero Island off of Ft. Myers, FL. The most important thing in her life was her family.

On Nov. 8, 1947, she married Peter J. Severn, and he survives.  Other survivors include a daughter, Sandra (William) Kulenkamp of Chelsea; grandchildren, Kristie Centilli, James Scott Centilli (Becky Raines), Laura (Robert) Hoshaw, and Michael (Tammy) Kulenkamp; great-grandchildren, Isabella Centilli, Gavin Centilli, Dylan Raines, Max Raines, Matthew (Tammi) Miller, Christopher Miller, Evan (Catie) Hoshaw,  Joseph Richards, Laura Richards, Ashten (Adam) Metzger, Nicholas Kulenkamp, Sabrina Mckenzie and Nicholas McKenzie; four siblings, Edwin (Kathy) Greenleaf of Chelsea, Lottie “Dolly” (Walter) Moore of Ft Myers, FL, Basil (Gloria) Greenleaf of Clinton, Jeanne Shilling of Ft Myers, FL; a brother-in-law, Fred Severn; a sister-in-law, Betty Greenleaf; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a brother, John Greenleaf of Brandon, FL; a sister, Marjorie Miller; and her parents.

Funeral services will be held Friday, October 16, at the Chelsea First United Methodist Church, with Rev. Joy Barrett officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel on Thursday, October 15th. Due to COVID restrictions, please call Cole Funeral Chapel at 734-475-1551 to schedule a time for viewing or reserve a spot at the funeral.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.


Helen Michelle “Mickey” Miller
Of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 73, passed quietly, at home with her family Tuesday, October 6, 2020.

Born to parents the late Norman R. McNally and MaryAnn (Quinn) McNally, August 6, 1947 in Toledo, Ohio. Mickey graduated from Bowser High School in 1965 with life-long friends Patty Miller, Carol (Fix) Smith and Nina (Wendell) Meek.

Mickey and John were married on June 11, 1966 and renewed their vows on their 50th wedding anniversary at St. Malachy Catholic Church Rantoul, Illinois Father Dennis O’Reiley officiated both.

In 1967 they welcomed son John Andrew “John John” Miller Jr and in 1970 daughter Jennifer Lea Jimenez-Miller. They lived in Ida, Michigan for 35 years before moving to Chelsea for the last 15 years.

A wonderful mother, wife and homemaker, with a love of horticulture and a laugh you could pick out of a crowd, she will always be a true Irish lass, fierce with an immense love of family and friends.

Mickey is survived by her husband of 54 years, John Andrew Miller, daughter Jennifer Lea Jimenez-Miller, granddaughter Delaney Isobel Martin-Miller, sisters Patty Regnall, Joan Detwiler and brother Bill McNally. Predeceased by son John John, October 6, 1973.

In lieu of flowers please donate to fight Childhood Cancer https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html

Due to our current world situation, there will not be any services held. She will be buried with her mother and son at Calvary Catholic Cemetery Toledo Ohio. A Wake is pending in summer of 2021.


Judith “Judi” Allayne Willson
Grass Lake, MI

Age 65, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2020, at Henry Ford Allegiance Health Care in Jackson.

She was born Dec. 5, 1954, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and grew up in Chelsea, the daughter of Julius Emerson and Jean Allayne (Newman) Blaess.

Judi worked at Chrysler Proving Grounds in Chelsea as an administrative assistant, endurance driver and stockkeeper until her retirement in 2018.

Judi had a gift for planting ever-flowering perennial gardens, and was a fan of musicals. She acted in productions at the Croswell Opera House, and she had been a season ticket holder at the Fisher Theater, as well as attending productions at the Wharton Center. Judi loved baking, decorating for Christmas, and was an avid collector of angels. She especially loved her grandchildren.

On Jan. 22, 2000, she married Doug Willson, and he survives. Other survivors include sister Patricia (Tim) Whitesall, many nieces and nephews, four children Adam (Ann) Erskine, Amanda (Arnold) Reginaldo, Jordan (Heather) Wahl and Evan (Julie) Wahl. As part of a blended family, Judi was also loved by Nikki (Travis) Henson and Stephen Willson, and was beloved grandmother of fifteen wonderful grandchildren.

A outdoor memorial service will be held Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2:00 p.m. at St. Paul United Church of Christ, with Erik Stricklin officiating. The family will receive friends before the service from 1-2 p.m. Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Kiwanis Club. Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Eleanor Catherine Eddington
of Walled Lake, Michigan

Age 95, died Saturday, September 12, 2020 at Ascension Providence Hospice in Novi.

She was born August 10, 1925 in New York, New York, the daughter of Henry and Mary (Zoubek) Krizek. She was preceded in death by her parents and 2 brothers.

Eleanor married Kenneth M. Eddington on August 11, 1945 and he preceded her in death on January 22, 2014. Eleanor is survived by one son, Tom Eddington of Commerce Township; and one daughter, Linda Dufek (Frank) of Chelsea; 5 grandchildren: Brian Dufek (Alice), Tracy Parron (Rich), Lesley Ranney (Kirk), Eric Eddington, Jeffrey Eddington and 7 great-grandchildren.

No public services are planned.

Memorial contributions may be made in Eleanor’s name to: Youth Haven Ranch, PO Box 97, Rives Junction, MI. 49277

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Marvin “Marv” E. Fraker
of Jackson, Michigan

Age 87, died Monday, October 5, 2020 at Arbor Manor in Spring Arbor, MI.

He was born July 8, 1933 in Deerfield, MI to Irvin and Pearl (Weber) Fraker. He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister Doris, two brothers Warren and Calvin, and a step-sister, Gwen (Dave) Blackmer.

He married Beatrice Baker on August 3, 1957. She survives along with four sons: James (Marcella) Escondido, CA, Gerald (Bobbie) Apex, NC, Donald (MaryJane) Grand Rapids, MI and Daniel (Janet) Caledonia, IL. Eight grandchildren: Pamela, Kimberly; Tanya, Joel; David; Sarah, Amy and Elliot. Five great-grandchildren: Tomás; Payton, Cali; Brent & Elizabeth. One step-brother Bruce Boice (Carol), and one step-sister, Phyllis Dick. Several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Marv graduated from Ann Arbor High School in 1952. He was All-State in both football and wrestling. This earned him an athletic scholarship to Michigan State University where he played football for one season. After one semester at Michigan State University, he decided to return home to become a plumber. He received his journeyman’s plumbing license in 1957 and his Master plumbing license in 1970. Marv owned Fraker Plumbing Inc. from 1971-1985. He was a member of Plumbers/Pipefitters UA Local 190 for over 66 years.

Marv was strong as a bull, but gentle as a lamb. Marv was very active in his church. He was a trustee on the church board for many years at the Southwest Church of the Nazarene in Gregory MI. He was also the general contractor for his church, its parsonage and years later an addition to the church. If a job needed to be done at his church, he did it. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Award by his church. Highlights of his life were his family, especially his grandchildren, great-grandchildren and serving his Lord.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Oct. 9, 2020 at the Chelsea Church of the Nazarene, 12126 Jackson Rd, Dexter Twp, MI 48130 with the burial following at Washtenong Memorial Park in Ann Arbor. A viewing will be held Thursday, Oct. 8 at Cole Funeral Chapel, 214 E. Middle St. Chelsea, MI. 48118. Due to COVID restrictions, please call Cole Funeral Chapel at 734-475-1551 to schedule a time for viewing or reserve a spot at the funeral.

Donations may be made to SouthWest Church of the Nazarene, 14555 Holmes Road, Gregory, MI 48137.


Eva Joan May Bollet
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Collierville, TN

Age 90, died Wednesday, September 30, 2020 at her home.

She was born May 3, 1930 in Warren Township, the daughter of Percy D. and Corrine A (Lipscomb) Noble.

More than anything, Eva loved spending time with her family. For years, she worked in downtown Chelsea, first at Chelsea Drug Store, and then at Chelsea Card and Gift. Many new friendships were made, especially when she worked behind the soda fountain at Chelsea Drug Store.

Two of her favorite hobbies were golf and making beautiful stained glass pieces. In 1966, she was the Women’s Club Champion at Inverness Country Club. On September 8, 1994, she received a Hole in One plaque while golfing at Pine Course in Fairfield Glades, TN.

In September of 1983, she married Ronald Bollet in Chelsea, and he preceded her in death on March 22, 2017. She is survived by five sons: Mike (Jean) Policht of Gregory, MI; Mark Policht of Chelsea, MI; Roger (Ingrid) Policht of Mason, MI; Lance (Cathy) Bollet of Munford, TN; Jeff (Dawn) Policht of Chelsea, MI; a daughter, Faye (Tim) Frederick of Chelsea, MI; 13 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Along with her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and her three sisters: Alma Brown, June Kern, and Della Stockard.

A private graveside service will be held at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to Arbor Hospice.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.


Clark, William Eugene Sr., 1/29/1936 – 9/21/2020

William (Bill) Clark age 84 of Hendersonville, TN. passed away Monday, September 21 at Tri Star Hendersonville Medical Center. He was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

He is the son of Raymond Matthew Clark and Gertrude Mary (Collings) Clark of Chelsea, Michigan.

On November 7, 1953 he married his childhood sweetheart Barbara Ann (Mshar) Clark at St. Mary’s Church in Chelsea, Michigan.

Bill worked at Hoover Ball and Bearing, then Federal Mogul, where he received many patents for his work before retiring in 1998. He was also an usher for the University of Michigan football and basketball games from around 1969-2013.

Bill is survived by his wife Barbara of 66 years, and six children. Catherine Cantrell (Bob), Donna Stofer, Mary Jones (Rick), William Clark Jr., Elizabeth Parham (Tom) and Jenny Clark, and Bill’s younger brother Ronald Clark.

Bill was blessed with 8 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

However, these raw statistics, facts, and dates are not our father. He was the PATRIARCH of our family and epitomized what it meant to sacrifice for family. He worked hard to take care of us and provided for us well. He taught his children and grandchildren practical and life lessons. He raised extremely capable adults and set the best examples ever. He was that rare gem that you could LITERALLY bet your life on.

He was ALWAYS there whenever family was in need as well as for the celebrations too. He was our biggest cheerleader and did what he could to help us realize our dreams. He loved a good practical joke and really enjoyed making you laugh.

He was a lifelong fan of the University of Michigan. He thought that ushering was the Best Job Ever! (Getting PAID to watch U of M football and basketball!) He raised us all to be fans of U of M too! He was an avid hunter and he taught his kids how to safely use guns, passing the love of hunting down to his son and grandsons. He loved board games, card games, pool, and country music, especially Johnny Cash.

He wasn’t afraid to teach kids how to win by letting them lose. Yes, even to the point where the grandkids had to conspire together to try to beat him at Monopoly (I think they still lost). There are not many people who could beat him at chess, not even when we begged him to let us win just one! But on the rare occasion when one of us could beat him, it was a day of celebration!

He left big shoes to fill, and I’m not talking about his size 14 feet. I doubt we can ever fill those shoes, but we will do our best to make him proud! His life was full of love and laughter; of family and friends. He will be forever missed. His memories will forever be treasures in our hearts.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Gertrude Clark, and his sister Verta MacDonald.

Bill has been cremated. No funeral services will be held at this time due to the Covid 19 pandemic.  A celebration of life will take place at a later date.

The family is requesting memorial contributions to be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave. Fl.17, Chicago, IL. 60601; http://act.alz.org/donate

“His Wings Were Ready, But Our Hearts Were Not”


John “Ray” Steinbach
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 86, died on Friday, September 25th, after a battle with Alzheimer’s.

He was born November 5, 1933, in Chelsea, Michigan, the son of Martin Charles and Alene Constance (Schoberg) Steinbach. Ray attended and graduated from Chelsea High School in 1951. While in High School he ran track and cross country. Ray earned a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University. His major of study was geology and was always on the lookout for another great rock. Ray always loved photography and in school, took many photos for yearbook.

He was hired by Washtenaw Community College, in 1992, where he started their Photography program. Another love of his was trains, he volunteered at the Steam Railroading Institute and worked on the 1225 Steam Locomotive in Owosso for 15-20 years. He enjoyed bowling and enjoyed being on a number of leagues at Chelsea Lanes. Ray collected stamps and coins. He was a member of the Model Train Club in Chelsea and Sharon United Methodist Church in Manchester. Ray was a past president of the Manchester Historical Society.

In 1955, Ray married Alice Anna Bregger, and she survives. Other survivors include two sons, Dave (Shannon) Steinbach of Gregory, Victor (Shari) Steinbach of Allendale; one sister, Connie (Roger) Hoffer of Colorado; four grandchildren, Sean Steinbach, Tracy Steinbach, Erin (Jeremy) Huedepohl, and Amy (Tyler) Pyke, as well as three great-grandchildren.

Ray will be buried in the Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea, Michigan, near his parents. Due to the times, there will not be a service or visitation to celebrate his life and mourn his passing.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Steam Railroading Institute, PO Box 665, Owosso, MI 48867, or to Alcoholics Anonymous, General Service Office, Box 459, Grand Central Station, New York, NY 10163.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.


Andrea Lynn Kline
of Gregory, Michigan

Age 63, died Saturday, September 12, 2020, at Michigan Medicine in Ann Arbor following a brief illness.

Andrea was born January 25, 1957, in Baltimore, Maryland, the daughter of James D. and Barbara Lee (Kelly) Kline.

Andrea graduated from Baltimore’s Woodlawn High School in 1975, completed her undergraduate work at West Virginia University in 1981, and earned her Master’s Degree in Landscape Architecture from the University of Michigan’s School for Environment and Sustainability in 1985.

Throughout her professional career, Andrea channeled her passions toward land conservation, habitat restoration and preservation, landscape design and implementation, and other environmental endeavors. She achieved many noteworthy accomplishments while working at JJR, The Nature Conservancy, University of Michigan, Huron River Watershed Council, and Friends of the Detroit River.

Andrea led a very active life; she was engaged in the community volunteering her expertise and had a great love of the outdoors. Her interests included gardening, kayaking, hiking, wilderness camping, knitting and traveling to distant places.

On May 18, 1985, she married Paul S. Evanoff in Ann Arbor, and he survives. Other survivors include her brother, Kelly Kline, from Baltimore, Maryland; uncle, John Kelly, from Frederick, Maryland; aunt, Betty Kelly, from Seattle, Washington; and several cousins, nephews, and nieces.

There will be no services, but a post-COVID gathering of friends and family to celebrate Andrea’s life will be scheduled at a later time in 2021.

In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorial contributions may be made to the following:

Andrea Lynn Kline Environmental Stewardship Scholarship Fund established for graduate students at the University of Michigan who share her passions.

https://leadersandbest.umich.edu/find/#!/give/basket/fund/701597

Monterey Bay Aquarium Sea Otter Rescue Program. Andrea’s love for otters cannot be measured. Donations can be made at:

https://www.montereybayaquarium.org/join-give/support-our-sea-otter-program

Monterey Bay Aquarium
886 Cannery Row
Monterey, CA 93940
Donation helpline (831) 648-4880
Please reference Andrea Kline Memorial under the comment section.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Marjorie I. Robbins Dack
Pleasant Lake, MI, formerly of Chelsea

Age 89, died Wednesday, September 16, 2020 at Henry Ford Allegiance Hospital in Jackson.

She succumbed to the effects of COVID-19 14 days after she tested positive.

She was born April 28, 1931 in Salem Township, Michigan, the daughter of Kenneth S. and Irene D. (Bennett) Proctor.

Marj truly wanted God’s light to shine through her life. She cared about people so much that for many years she opened her home to families of patients being treated at the headache clinic in Chelsea.

She was committed to Campus Crusade for Christ (now known as Cru) and through them performed courageous acts of service. For 7 weeks in 2005 following Hurricane Katrina, she helped feed thousands of displaced people at God’s Katrina Kitchen in Pass Christian, Mississippi. She also made two trips to Afghanistan to help widows learn sewing to support themselves, and to share the message of Jesus.

Marj loved helping people and was known for her hospitality. She enjoyed interacting with students during the 6 years she worked at the Chelsea High School media center. She also worked 13 years providing hospice care through Individualized Home Nursing Care. She loved helping and being with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She cherished the times she and Phil spent square dancing, traveling, and visiting with friends.

While raising their family, she and Bob attended the First United Methodist Church in Chelsea. Later she attended Trinity Ev. Presbyterian Church in Plymouth. Most recently she and Phil attended Northwest Baptist Church in Jackson.

On December 2, 1950, she married Robert “Bob” Robbins in the Salem Grove Methodist Church, and he preceded her in death on Oct. 9, 2001. On Jan. 11, 2008, she married Phillip L. Dack, and he survives. Other survivors include two daughters, Darlene (Marty) Straub of Chelsea and Denise (Michael) Murphy of Newark, CA; two sons, Dale Robbins of Chelsea and Duane Robbins (Sandy Pepper) of Maricopa, AZ; 7 grandchildren, Stephen (Stephenie), Peter (Amanda), David, Jonathan (Sara), & James (Alexandra) Straub and Eryn and Heather Murphy; 5 great-grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Noah, Owen, Langdon, and Charlotte Straub; two step-children, Marty (Karen) Dack of Mason and Denise (Andy) Green of New Port Richey, FL; 3 step-grandchildren, Leah and Quinn Dack and Nathan Nevills; two siblings, Jayne Bauer of Williamston and Don (Sally) Proctor of Chelsea. She was preceded in death by a brother, Kenneth and his wife, Kay; a brother-in-law, Walt Bauer; her parents, and her step-mother Ina Proctor.

A private graveside service will be held at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Cru, P.O. Box 628222, Orlando, FL 32862-8222. (www.cru.org)

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Melvin Lee Underhile Sr.
Grass Lake, MI

Age 79, died Friday, September 18, 2020 at Henry Ford Allegiance Hospital in Jackson, after a long illness.

He was born November 4, 1940 in Olmsted, Illinois, the son of Melvin F. and Barbara A. (Caswell) Underhile.

Melvin graduated from Marion High School in Illinois, then served in the US Marine Corp for 4 years. He worked for Johnson Control in Manchester for 25 years. Melvin enjoyed bowling, golf and Euchre.

On December 7, 1974, he married Crystl Barbara Menge at her parents’ home in Chelsea, and she survives. Other survivors include his children, Lee (Stacey) Underhile Jr. of Grass Lake, Christopher (Crystal) Underhile of Battle Creek, Jeremy Underhile of Jackson, Samantha (Beau) Tucker of South Lyon, Emily (Chad) Webb of Vandercook Lake; 12 grandchildren, Justin, Kelsey, Shaina, Alexandra, Angelina, Zachery, Haley, Beau, Oliver, Wyatt, Carter, Cason; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Bruce, and his sister, Linda.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel, Sunday, September 20. Please call the funeral home at 734-475-1551 to schedule a time to visit. A celebration of his life will be held Monday, September 21, 5:00 pm at Lee’s home, 919 E. Michigan Ave., Grass Lake.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family.


Marilyn Ann Daoust
of Chelsea, Michigan formerly of Seattle, Illinois, Indiana, and Plymouth, MI

Age 86, died Monday, September 14, 2020 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor.

She was born December 3, 1933 in Sterling, Illinois, the daughter of Elbert and Effie May (Dickey) Regan.

Marilyn was a member at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea. She was a secretary in Plymouth for 5 years and then stayed home with her 5 children. She loved having family and friends at their Chelsea home where all were greeted with open arms, enjoying cook outs, swimming, hanging out on the deck and sleepovers. Marylin had a very special way of making sure that those close to her were loved unconditionally. She also enjoyed crocheting and watching the Detroit Tigers on TV.

In November 1960, she married Paul Daoust in Plymouth, and he survives. She is also survived by two sons, John (Jennifer) Flynn of Livonia, Paul F. Daoust of Lincoln Park; three daughters, Colleen (Edwin) Hettinger of Portage, Mary Pederson of Oxford, Kelly (Chris) Decerbo of Rustin, LA; two sisters, Marlene Harvey of Chelsea, Mary Regan of Sterling, IL; a brother, Tim Regan of Sterling, IL; 8 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a grandchild.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, September 21, 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, with the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating. Immediately following, burial will take place in Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Virginia Dzengeleski
Virginia Dzengeleski passed away at home on September 14, 2020.

She was born, one of five children, to Leonard and Irene Pappas on February 24,1952 in Detroit.

Ginny, as she was known to friends and family, graduated from Cooley High School in Detroit in 1970. She married her husband James in 1974 and moved to Allen Park, MI where they raised their daughter, Samantha. In 1995, the family moved to Manchester, MI where they were active members of the community.

She loved to read, especially mysteries, volunteering at the Manchester Library in retirement. In 2011, the couple moved to Brighton, MI before settling in Grass Lake, MI in 2013.

Ginny was known for her incredible warmth, welcoming anyone to her kitchen table. She never lost her characteristic cheerful disposition, facing her illness with a remarkable strength that inspired her many close friends and family.

She is survived by her husband James, daughter Samantha, granddaughter Faye, and son-in-law Tim Hollosy of Williamston, MI.

A private memorial service will be held in the Spring of 2021.

Please sign Ginny’s guest book at sherwoodfh.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Sherwood Funeral Home, Grass Lake.


Judith Lynn Grau
of Chelsea

Age 66, passed away on September 14, 2020 peacefully at the home of her Uncle James Grau.

She was born on July 13, 1954 in Detroit to Alton and Arlene (Koebbe) Grau. Judith lived in this area her entire life. She loved to sew, help around the farm, and just care immensely for others, in general. She was an excellent cook and kept a neat and tidy home.

She is survived by her children, Emily (Chris) Orlandi of Chelsea, Laura (Frank) Richards of Utah, Mellissa (Josh) Fraker of Fenton, MI, Jacob Carty of Waterloo, MI, Joshua (Nicole Gotte) Carty of Whitmore Lake, MI; mother, Arlene Grau of Chelsea; siblings, Cheryl (Samuel) Dimon of Rye, NY, Susan (Alan) Cohen of Princeton, NJ, Michael (Lynne) Grau of California, Timothy (Debra) Grau of Kentucky, Christopher Grau of Chelsea; uncle, James Grau of Chelsea; and former spouse and dear friend, Ken Carty.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, as well as her father in April of this year, Alton Grau.

A private Graveside Service is planned.

Expressions of sympathy may be made in Judith’s name to Arbor Hospice.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.


James (Jim) Lyle Utsler
of Chelsea, MI

Quietly passed away on Saturday, September 12, after a long- and well-lived life.

Born in Dexter, MI, on July 9, 1931, to Lyle and Beulah (Betty) Utsler. He served along with his twin brother Jerry in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War, retired from a management position at General Motors and subsequently became a real estate agent serving the Chelsea/Dexter area.

Jim never failed to find adventure in life, whether going on an African safari; zip-lining in Costa Rica; piloting planes and sailing boats; daring rickety train rides in Mexico (a trip he often ruefully joked about); exploring Europe with his wife; rebuilding his and Janet’s cottage on Joslin Lake; cycling on backroads; cutting up while playing euchre; barking out “Go Blue!” during U-M football games (and razzing his MSU family and friends when the Wolverines beat the Spartans); or sneaking off to a dive bar for a cold beer. It was moments such as these—both large and small—that he enjoyed so much.

This kind and warm-hearted, gentle person who couldn’t tell a joke without laughing before reaching the punchline—if he ever reached it at all—hasn’t so much passed as left everyone he touched with fond memories, reasons for hope, a profound sense of wonder and curiosity, and, most importantly, love.

Jim’s survived by his wife of 63 years, Janet (Atkinson); daughters Kimberly Towne, Pamela Utsler, Cheryl Utsler Snyder, and son James Jerrold Utsler; son-in-laws Stephen Towne, Robert Hurst, Edward Snyder, and daughter-in-law Deanna Utsler (otherwise known as “the outlaws,” and who he also embraced as his children); grandchildren Andrew, Matthew (Amelia), Lyndsey (Steve), Pamela (Rafa), Brandon (Gabrielle) and David; and great grandchildren Penelope, Gavin, Zelda, Corbin, Austin and Nadia.

An informal celebration of Jim’s life will be held at a suitable time in 2021, and his burial will take place at St. Andrew’s Cemetery in Dexter, MI.

Memorial contributions may be made to Doctors Without Borders USA or the National Audubon Society.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Barbara Kline passed away peacefully at her home in the Chelsea Retirement Community on August 14, 2020.

She was born on August 5, 1929 to Clifford and Naomi Kelly in Frederick, MD.

She married James D. Kline on November 23, 1950; he preceded her in death in 2003. She is survived by her daughter Andrea and son-in-law Paul Evanoff of Gregory, Michigan, her son Kelly of Baltimore MD, grandson Joseph Kline of Red Lion, PA, and several nieces and nephews.

Although she was an excellent student, Barbara’s father discouraged her interest in higher education since it would be “wasted on a housewife”. But, as soon as her children were old enough, Barbara began taking community college classes eventually earning Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Early Childhood Education and Administration. She worked at the Milford Mill Church Child Development Center for 27 years where she eventually served as Executive Director. A scholarship fund was established upon her retirement in recognition of her service.

Barbara was an accomplished musician, performing as organist for many church services and choir practices. And she loved gardening, toiling countless hours in her flowerbeds.

Cremation has taken place; a ceremony will be held at the family cemetery in Lewistown at a later date.

In lieu of flowers the family wishes that contributions be made to the following charitable organizations:

Barbara Kline Scholarship Fund

Milford Mill Church Child Development Center

915 Milford Mill Road

Pikesville, MD 21208

(please make check payable to Milford Mill Church with BKline Scholarship Fund on memo line)

United Methodist Retirement Communities Foundation

Barbara was a long-time resident of Chelsea Retirement Community and greatly appreciated the care and love she received from her neighbors and the staff. Memorial gifts can be sent to:

UMRC Foundation

805 W. Middle Street

Chelsea, MI 48118

or online at https://umrc.com/umrc-foundation/


Gene Louis Ahrens
Grass Lake, MI

Age 90, died Friday, September 11, 2020 at his home in Grass Lake. He was born September 16, 1929 in Davenport, Iowa, the son of Rudolph Henry and Edna Elinor (Hein) Ahrens.

Gene joined the US Army in September, 1947, and was a Medical Tech in the 8th Army, 24th Infantry, being stationed in Korea, Japan, Germany as well as Fort Knox, TN; Camp Kilmer, NJ; Fort Riley, KS and Fort Wayne in Detroit. Gene stayed in the Detroit area working for several different concrete companies. He was a medical tech at the Ford Rouge plant and head of production control at Hoskins Manufacturing Co.

Gene and his family moved to Chelsea in 1969. He was a member of the Herbert J. McKune post of the American Legion. Gene was also an Iowa Hawkeyes fan. He coached little league in Chelsea for several years and was a Scoutmaster.

On Sept. 6, 1958, he married Irene Olga Sviatko at Holy Cross Church in Delray/ Detroit, and she preceded him in death on April 2, 2008. Survivors include three children, Theresa “Terri” (Danny) Lancaster of Chelsea, Andrew (Lisa) Ahrens of Grass Lake, and Mark Ahrens of Grass Lake; 4 grandchildren, Kimberley (Chris) Potocki, Thomas Lancaster, David (Cindy) Ahrens, and Ashley Ahrens; great-grand children, Evelyn, Josephine, and Henry Potocki, Maya Ahrens, and Kendall Lancaster; brother-in-law, Andrew (Margaret) Sviatko; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by 2 grandchildren, Kathryn Lancaster and Justin Ahrens; brothers, Wesley (Sylvia) Ahrens, Dallas (Ruth) Ahrens; sister, Janice (Delvin) Lemke; brother-in-law, Frank (Stella) Sviatko.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel Monday, September 14. Please call the funeral home at 734-475-1551 to schedule at time to pay your respects. Private graveside services will be held Tuesday, September 15, at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Waterloo.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Herbert J. McKune Post of the American Legion or Cascades Humane Society.


Patricia Anne Lawrence
of Ann Arbor, Michigan

Age 92, died Friday, September 4, 2020 at her home.

She was born March 4, 1928 in Flat Rock, MI, the daughter of Henry Christian and Alice L. (Osmun) Anderson.

Patricia attended Flat Rock High School, where she enjoyed playing basketball. She lived in many different areas, including Iowa, Grayling, in a remote area near Mio, Dexter, and finally Ann Arbor. Pat worked at Head Start in Dexter, and later at TJ Max, JC Penney, Meijer (all in Ann Arbor). She attended Dexter Gospel Church.

On Nov. 2, 1946, she married William Henry Lawrence Jr. in Ohio, and he preceded her in death on May 19, 1983. Survivors include 2 sons, Orrin “David” Lawrence of Ann Arbor, Steven Lawrence of Ann Arbor; 4 daughters, Linda (Ivan) Laraway of Ann Arbor, Laura Southwell of Pinckney, Alice Lawrence of Ann Arbor,  Nancy Lawrence of Ann Arbor; 9 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandsons; and many nieces and nephews. Patricia was preceded in death by a son, Bill; 2 brothers, Robert and Harry “Daniel” Anderson.

A private service will be held at Dexter Gospel Church.

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

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Geraldine (Geri) Mae White
of Jackson, Michigan, formerly of Chelsea, MI and Sarasota, FL

Age 95, died September 5, 2020 at Hospice House in Jackson, MI, with her daughter by her side.

She now resides in the house of her Lord and Savior. She was born April 8, 1925 in Buffalo, New York, the daughter of Harold and Elizabeth (Spangenburg) Roth.

Geri loved fashion and shopping. She was shy until she got to know someone. Geri enjoyed her years at Weber’s Restaurant as a cashier. She and Guy owned two motels in Sarasota, FL. Geri engaged with her guests, many of whom became friends and returned every year.

Sunshine and the beach were things she liked very much. Geri enjoyed the old hymns and scripture and attending church services with family and friends.

On Sept. 11, 1945, she married Guy William White Jr, and he preceded her in death on March 22, 1990. Survivors include two daughters, Deborah (Douglas) Mohl of Morganton, North Carolina, Marcia White of Chelsea; former son-in-laws, John Kipfmiller and Larry Parker; sister-in-law, Bethel White; 3 grandsons, Christopher (Jennifer) Mohl, Justin (Erin) Mohl of North Carolina, and Trevor Kipfmiller; great-granddaughter, Kendell Mohl; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by four siblings, Gil and Will Roth, LaVera Schipple, and Ruth Nycki.

A private graveside service was held at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea, with Rev. Jeff Crowder officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Nazarene Church, PO Box 389, Chelsea, MI, or Henry Ford Allegiance Health Hospice Home, 2150 Kingsbrooke Dr., Jackson, MI 49202.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Roberta “Bobbie” (Gerlach) Sanderson
of Chelsea, Michigan

Age 73, died Tuesday, September 1, 2020 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor.

She was born March 5, 1947 in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Robert and Josephine Gerlach.

Bobbie graduated from Sandwich High School in 1965. She married Roy George Sanderson in Aurora, Illinois, in 1967. They lived in Illinois until 1980, when they moved to Michigan. Bobbie and Roy went to Arizona in the winters. They attended the Chelsea Kingdom Hall.

Bobbie worked for the US Postal Service in Millington, IL, and then the Grass Lake Post Office, where she retired. Friends and family were very important to Bobbie, and the grandchildren and great-grandchildren were a large part of her life.

She is survived by her son, Joel (Allison) Sanderson of San Tan Valley, AZ; daughter, Johanna Sanderson of Gold Canyon AZ; son-in-law Charles Vogt; 5 grandchildren, Jacob (Chelsea) Vogt, Joshua (Kylie) Vogt, Molly (Corey) Gorecki, Max and Meghan Sanderson; 3 great-grandchildren, Kasey, Ellie and Isaac Vogt; 3 sisters, Kathy (Gregg) Saewert, Deborah (Sean) O’Callaghan, Margaret (Mark) Richmond; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Roy (9/1/1942-3/5/2020), her daughter, Amy Vogt, her sister, Victoria Gerlach, and her parents.

A memorial service will be held at a later date, please watch www.ColeFuneralChapel.com for updates.

Memorial contributions may be made to Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Shirley Ann Schultz
of Gregory, MI

Age 80, died due to pancreatic cancer on Tuesday, August 25, 2020 at her home with her family at her side.

She was born April 25, 1940 in Garden City, Michigan, the daughter of Norbert and Eveline Gladys (Kline) Schultz.

Shirley was proud that she went back to Stockbridge High School and graduated in 1987. She worked at Chelsea Retirement Community for over 30 years as a receptionist. When she wasn’t at CRC, she was at home enjoying her pond.

Survivors include her three children, Michael (Lisa) Taylor of Flat Rock, Sherry (Donald Morris) Taylor of Gregory, Troy (Lori) Taylor of TX; 11 grandchildren, Heather Reppert, Sara Denton, Collin Grissom, Codie Grissom, Tanner Taylor, Jensen Taylor, Troy “TJ” Taylor Jr, Jylian Taylor, James Taylor, Jennifer McCallum, Johnny Gearin; 3 brothers, Russel Schultz, Paul Kline, Gordon Kline; 18 great-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews; and her Chelsea Retirement Community family.

The family will receive friends Saturday, September 12, at Veterans Park in Chelsea, 1-4 p.m. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. with Rev. Dr. Julie J. Kilmer officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to a Go Fund Me for Pancreatic Cancer: https://www.gofundme.com/f/4k8zy-pancreatic-cancer-awareness?fbclid=IwAR3AIJI-QCod_ZuAln2piwGg_TY-EBfO5aVPvM-2T_s-6emDasqDPqQhN7Q.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Katherine Staffan Wagner was born in Chelsea, Michigan on September 17, 1915 and died August 23, 2020.

Her father was the owner and mortician of the Staffan Funeral Home. She enjoyed outdoors activities with her two brothers George and Frank and was the captain of the Chelsea High School girls’ basketball team.

In 1937, Kate married Fredrick J. Wagner who was from Dexter, Michigan and served in the Navy during World War II. They had three children, Fredrick (Fritz) Wagner, who resides in Seattle, Washington with his wife Margaret, Stephanie (Sis) Wagner Kanten (deceased) and John P. Wagner of the Phoenix, Arizona metro area. She is survived by her three grandchildren, Kellie, Melanie and Ryan: four great grandchildren Bria, Kaya, Aydin, Ada and her niece Kandie Kay Waggoner.  She had a special relationship with each of her dogs (Puddles, Peppie Lamoko, Buffy, Daisy and Willow).

Kate and her husband owned and operated the Dexter Cider Mill for years. Kate loved to read. Her aunt Katie donated the house that became the Chelsea Library and Kate served on the library board for many ears. Kate was an active bridge player in the community and hosted numerous afternoon card parties. A favorite activity was watching TV, especially the Detroit Tigers and westerns of which John Wayne was her favorite. Her trips to Florida started with her mother and continued with husband, family and friends.

Kate was adventuresome and in her eighties she went for a hot air balloon with Pat Merkel and white water rafting in Virginia. She enjoyed living at Crooked Lake and purchased a float boat, which is still in operation. She would organize family and friends to make breakfast on the pontoon boat and she would bring the coffee. She took a ride on her boat a few days before her 103rd birthday.

Kate spent the last few years of her life with the Silver Maples community. Her driver and companion Irene would take her to breakfast at Big Boy where she would greet the servers and ask others to join her for breakfast. Neighbors, friends and her family will remember the bracelets that jangled on her wrist and eating her sugar cookies.

She will be missed.


Elvira Hahn
of Ypsilanti, MI, formerly Gregory, MI, and Livonia, MI

Age 92, died Saturday, August 22, 2020 at Arbor Hospice Residence in Saline.

She was a rare soul befitting of her birthday, February 29, leap year, 1928. In fact, 2020 was just the 23rd year she actually had a birthday. Born in Detroit, the daughter of Gaetano (Guy) and Carmela (Romano) DiCicco, 1st generation Italian immigrants, she attended Detroit public schools and later, University of Detroit where she achieved a Bachelor of Fine Arts.

She was a basketball player, fluent in Italian, Spanish, and English. She started a career in Public Relations before retiring to raise an ever-growing family.

Loving wife of William J. Hahn for 68 years, until his passing a short time ago on April 18, 2020. Sister of Marie (Frankie) Nido. Survived by her children, Paul (Jennie) Hahn of Ann Arbor, Mary (Marshall) Bice of Naperville, IL, Thomas (Sandra) Hahn of Ann Arbor, John (Rain) Hahn of AZ; her grandchildren, Brian (Sarah) Kuzma, Laura Kuzma, Angelina Bice, Spenser Bice, Jonathan (Amanda) Hahn, Christopher Hahn, Alexandra (Jacob) Kearly, Brianna Labelle-Hahn and Allana LaBelle-Hahn; great-grandchildren, Brendan Kuzma, Miles Kuzma, Annie Lynn Alexandra Hahn, Thia Whitler, and Emma Cash. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Katherine Bantom (Louis); and son William Jr.

She was a proud member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Dexter. In later years, she returned to work at UofD, and spent hundreds of volunteer hours committed to Faith in Action of Chelsea, Friends of the Chelsea Library, numerous women’s rights groups, and writers’ groups.

A private burial will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Dexter, on Saturday, August 29 — a brief recognition of an extraordinary life of a giving, loving wife, mother and grandmother.

A more deserving celebration service will be held for both Bill and Elvira once it is safer for public gatherings.

Memorial contributions may be made to Faith in Action, 603 S. Main St, Chelsea, MI 48118.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Margaret Emma Rink
of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Royal Oak and Howell

Age 98, died Tuesday, July 28, 2020, at Chelsea Community Hospital.

She was born Feb. 10, 1922, in Detroit, the daughter of J. Wesley and Alice J. (Bryan) Dennis.

Margaret graduated from Central High School in Detroit in Jan 1940. She worked in accounting with Bell Telephone for 2 years. She then studied Social Studies at Adrian College, where she met Donald. She later earned her Master’s Degree in Guidance Counseling from MSU. She taught at Utica School District and later Howell School District where she retired in 1985. Margaret attended Chelsea United Methodist Church.

On August 2, 1947, she married Donald E. Rink in Detroit. The late Judge Rink preceded her in death in 1998. She is survived by her son Donald “Lee” Rink of Bloomfield Township; two sisters, Alice Louise “Allie Lou” Paterson of Adrian and Janet Douglass of Farmington Hills; a sister-in-law, Katherine Suydam; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, August 25, at the First United Methodist Church in Adrian, with Rev. Eric Stone and Rev. Julie Kilmer officiating. Due to Covid restrictions, please call Cole Funeral Chapel at 734-475-1551 if you would like to attend.

Memorial contributions may be made to Dennis/Rink Scholarship Fund at Adrian College or the United Methodist Retirement Community Foundation.


Warren J. Mayer
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 88, died Friday, July 31, 2020, at Michigan Medicine in Ann Arbor.

He was born September 13, 1931, in Three Rivers, Michigan, the son of John and Lucile (Collyer) Mayer.

Warren graduated from Three Rivers High School in 1949, then attended Western Michigan University for his undergraduate degree. He received his Masters degree from the University of Iowa. Warren was in the U.S. Army where he served during the hydrogen tests at Eniwetok Atoll.

He was a band director and guard at the Ft. Leavenworth Disciplinary Barracks. Warren was band and choir director in Kingsley/Pierson School District in Iowa for 13 years, then spent 25 years as a band director in the Chelsea School District. He was very involved with the Michigan State Band and Orchestra Association, played clarinet in the Dexter Community Band, and Ann Arbor Civic Summer Band. Warren was a member and choir director of Zion Lutheran Church, Assistant Scoutmaster at Troop 425, and a member of Chelsea Kiwanis for many years. He also volunteered at Chelsea Retirement Community.

On Dec. 23, 1966, he married Linda L. Weiandt in Three Rivers, and she preceded him in death on Sept. 19, 1985. On Oct. 4, 1997, he married Linda (Weidemier) Wickre, and she survives. Other survivors include two sons, David (Kim) Mayer of Ypsilanti, Timothy (Amy) Mayer of Galion, OH; a step-son, Jay Wickre of Hill City, SD; his twin sisters, Donna (Ed) Elder and Diane Butler; 13 grandchildren, Julia, Gloria, Melody, Grant, Nathan, Elliot, Joe, Katie, Michael, Addie, Elli, Grace, and Emma; 6 step-grandchildren, Leah Wytosick, Kaylin Wickre, Jayson Wickre, Andrew Wickre, Yolanda Elrod, Carrie Angulo; 6 step-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his first wife, he was preceded in death by his brother, Roger.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Aug. 7, 11:00 am at Zion Lutheran Church, 3050 S Fletcher Rd, Chelsea, MI 48118, with Rev. Kurt Hutchens officiating. Burial will follow at Zion Lutheran Cemetery, Chelsea. The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel on Thursday, August 6. Please call 734-475-1551 to schedule a time to greet the family. There will also be visitation and viewing on Friday from 10-11 am at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church, to establish a music scholarship fund, or the Parkinson’s Foundation.


Patricia Arline McCarthy
of Grawn, Michigan

Age 70, passed away on Tuesday, July 28, 2020, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer in Traverse City, Michigan.

She was born January 2, 1950 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Joseph John and Bertha Arline (Wallace) Zitney.

Patricia graduated from Warren Woods High School in 1967. She went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Western Michigan University and then her Masters in Educational Leadership from Central Michigan University. Patricia was a well-respected educator for more than 30 years. She loved kids, especially her grandchildren. 

Patricia is survived by her husband Daniel of 50 years, two sons, Matthew (Tina) McCarthy of Joliet, Illinois, and Daniel “DJ” (Sara) McCarthy of Chelsea; six grandchildren, Addison, Colbie, Brennan, Christian, Ariana, and Ryker; two sisters, Barbara (Russell) Bednarz of Bluffton, South Carolina, and Susan (Walter) Baran of Clarkston. She was preceded in death by her parents. 

The Funeral Mass will be held Monday, Aug. 3, 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 Sunday, Aug. 2.  Please call 475-1551 to schedule a time to greet the family. 

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


Ann Ellen Feeney
of Chelsea

Passed away in the early morning of July 27, 2020, in Chelsea, MI.

She had spent the previous 10 days in Hospice care at home, sharing time, talk, and gardening adventures with her husband, Michael, and their six children.

Ann was born on January 12, 1935, in Detroit, MI, to Harold Walter and Helen Beatrice (Ryan) Moore. She graduated from St. Mary’s of Redford High School in Detroit in 1953, and received her bachelor’s degree from Marygrove College in 1957. She married Michael Feeney in 1958. They remained married for 62 years until Ann’s death.

In 1972, Ann and Michael moved their family from Detroit to Chelsea. Ann loved her adopted hometown, where she built an inspiring legacy of civic and community service. Not long after arriving in Chelsea, Ann started volunteering at the St. Louis School for Children and Adults with Disabilities, and driving several times a week for Meals on Wheels. She drove for Meals on Wheels for 43 years. She was also a long-time volunteer at Spaulding for Children and the United Methodist Retirement Home. She served on the Board of Directors for St. Joseph Mercy Hospital-Chelsea, WAVE, Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Washtenaw County, the Chelsea Community Foundation, Helpsource, Chelsea Community Kitchen, the UMRC Heritage Foundation, the Purple Rose Theater, and many others.

Ann held many civic roles in Chelsea for years. She was elected to the Chelsea Board of Education in 1976. She served on the School Board from 1976 to 1986, and from 1987 to 1991. In 2002, she was elected to the Chelsea City Charter Commission, which oversaw the Village of Chelsea’s incorporation as a city. She was elected the City of Chelsea’s first mayor in 2004. She served as mayor until 2009, when she was elected to the Chelsea City Council, on which she served until 2013.

In 1994, the Village of Chelsea began awarding a Citizen of the Year award. Ann was its inaugural recipient. Her Alma Mater, Marygrove College in Detroit, named her its Distinguished Alumna for 2003.

Ann loved her 15 grandchildren, who loved her back with fierce and tender devotion (her two great-grandchildren were just getting to know her when she passed away). She loved gardening, and she maintained a beautiful set of gardens around her Chelsea home. She could be seen on every sort of day walking about her yard with a gardener’s focus—pruning, digging, planting, and picking.

Ann Feeney lived a whole life, which for her, was not a matter of amassing experiences and maximizing enjoyments, but of understanding her purposes in this world and realizing them, through tireless, joyful effort and loving indifference to her own ego. She was an example of the personal fulfillment that comes from serving other people and serving God. She was a deep, steady source of inspiration and advice for family, friends, and colleagues. A committed Christian, she was baptized into the Catholic Church as an infant and remained a devoted servant of the Church for her entire life. St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea was her spiritual home for 48 years.

Ann is survived by Michael Feeney, her husband of 62 years; their six children, Peter (Patti), Marc (Julianna), Matthew (Juliet Arechiga), Cara Drenth (Walter), Molly, and Michael (Hyo Kyung); 15 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her five siblings, Mary D. Hubbell, Katie Galli, Helen Therese Perry, Denise Evan, and Bernie Moore.

Our thanks to Joanne Randall, Karen Ruhlig, Tina Bednarski-Lynch, and to the staff of St. Joseph Mercy Hospice and Comfort Keepers. And special thanks to Becky and Diane for going above and beyond during Ann’s final days.

Private services have taken place with burial at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in honor of Ann may do so to Faith In Action, the St. Louis Center, or Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.


Richard Bruce Bailey

Age 85, passed away Saturday, July 25, 2020 in Ann Arbor.

He was born January 5, 1935 in Alpena, Michigan.

He is the beloved husband of Eleanor and the loving father of Sheryl Cyr of South Lyon, Laura Giuffrida of Ann Arbor, Jeffrey Bailey of Culpeper, Virginia; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

The Lord is our shepherd.

Go Blue!

A celebration of life will be held at a different time.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


John Edward Laraway
Grass Lake, MI

Age 91, died Tuesday, July 14, 2020, at Country Side Manor Assisted Living in Jackson.

He was born April 5, 1929 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Dwight H. and Ida Mae (Thurston) Laraway.

John was raised on a farm in Dexter, but lived in Chelsea most of his life. John was the 3rd oldest of 9 boys. He served in the US Army in Korea during the Korean War. He retired from Ford Motor Company in Saline. John loved snowmobiling and going to his cabin in Harrison.

Survivors include three children, Patti (John) Schick of Chelsea, Pam Dietz of Grass Lake, John (Rose) Laraway, Jr. of Howell; 8 grandchildren, Sarah (Marty) Sherwood, Jay (Mindy) Schick, Margaret Schick, John “JT”; Laraway, Gary (Amanda) Sabin, Linda (Chris) Bowen, Jacob (Aubrey Furlong) Laraway, Sean Sabin; 11 great-grandchildren, Drew, Ashley, Addison, Reese, Hank, Natalie, Norell, Noden, Grayson, Ben, Zayden; three brothers, Carl, Hascal, Ivy; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his children’s mother, Noel; and five brothers, Bill, Guy, Norman, Harold, and Leo.

No public services will be held. Burial will be at Leland Cemetery in Ann Arbor.

Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Michael George “Spider” Wynn
Chelsea, Michigan

Spider, age 77, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, June 30, 2020 surrounded by his family.

He was born June 10, 1943 in Ypsilanti, Michigan. He graduated from Whitmore Lake high school in 1961. Rumor has it that he got his nickname from the football team he played on.

After attending college for a couple years, he discovered the music scene in Ann Arbor. Spider was well known in the Ann Arbor music scene. He played in numerous bands in and around the Ann Arbor area for over 50 years. Many musicians, local and touring, bought their instruments from Spider.

He married Angela Lance on October 28, 1972. She survives as well as his three children Michael L. (Renee) of Ann Arbor, Heather (Kevin) Blakeman of Grass Lake, Stephanie Wynn (Mike Conely) of Dexter.

He adored his four grandkids Michael C. Wynn, Elise and Maxwell Blakeman, and Addison Conely.

He was an avid reader, enjoyed golfing, repairing instruments, going out to lunch with his bandmates and getting together and ” jamming” with them.

He will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him. His sense of humor, modesty, and calm demeanor will be remembered.

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of his life hosted by his musician friends will take place at a later date

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Barbara Jean Egeler
Grass Lake, Michigan

Age 87, died Monday, June 22, 2020.

She was born August 28, 1932 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Garnett and Marguerite (Krontz) Weir.

Barbara attended Chelsea schools and was a runner in high school. She worked at Gaunts gladiola farm, and did childcare. Barbara was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Chelsea. She was an artist who loved to paint and draw.

On Nov. 22, 1950, she married Douglas F. Egeler in Angola, Indiana, and he preceded her in death on July 27, 2012. Survivors include her son, Douglas A. (Sandra) Egeler of Chelsea; three grandchildren, Derek Egeler, Adam Egeler, and Mandie (Zach) Porter; 2 great-grandchildren, Carter Porter, Abbie Jean Porter, and a 3rd on the way; a sister, Mary (Eugene) Alber. Barb was preceded in death by one son, Richard Egeler, her brother, Robert James Weir, and her sister, Jacqueline Riethmiller; and several nieces and nephews.

Burial will take place at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to Pura Syndrome Foundation.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Sharon Marie (Dancer) Owings

Age 81, passed away suddenly Friday, June 12, 2020, in McAllen, Texas where she had been living.

The daughter of Donald James Dancer and Betty Jane Casterline, she was born on Nov. 22, 1938 in Chelsea, MI.

She was voted the 1954 Chelsea Community Fair Queen. Sherri graduated from Chelsea High School in 1956 as Salutatorian and was involved in many activities in high school then attended the School of Nursing at the University of Michigan, graduating from the Carnegie Institute of Detroit in March of 1956 as a medical assistant.

She was employed in the Kresge Medical Research at the University of Michigan, specializing in Thyroid Study. Sherri and Ralph Lee Owings were married on Jan. 24, 1959.  He was also a graduate of Chelsea High School.

Surviving is Ralph and their two sons, Scott Bradley (Nora) Owings of Mission, Texas, James Edwin (Shipla) Owings of Lake Orion, Michigan and a daughter, Lee Anne Vipond of New Braunfels, Texas; six granddaughters, 4 Great Grandsons, 3 Great Granddaughters and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by a sister, Carol Ann (Dancer) Collins and her parents.

A private service was held on Sunday, June 14, 2020 with her immediate family attending. 

Sherri was a kind and caring person, always smiling and had a great sense of humor. She will truly be missed by all who knew her.


Frank Anthony Cianciolo Sr., “Pop”
Chelsea, MI

Age 78, of Chelsea, Michigan died unexpectedly on Tuesday, May 19, 2020 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Chelsea.

He is survived by three sons, Frank (Karie) Jr. of Manchester, Robert of Jackson, David (Janette) of Manchester; six grandchildren, Vincent, Samantha, Victor, Olive, Gino and Julian; two great-grandchildren, Daniel and Ember; sisters, Maryann McShane, Peggy (Robert) Foster; brother, Tom (Kim) Cianciolo; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, father and sister, Toni Ann Cianciolo.

Frank was born May 18, 1942 in Detroit, the oldest son of Anthony Frank and Esther (Hankins) Cianciolo. He was known to most as a cabinet maker/wood-worker. He created and repaired all manner of hand-made furniture and wooden items. He owned his own wood-working business for the past 35 years.

Frank started out as a truck driver. Fiercely independent, he bought his own truck and found his own work. He eventually owned and ran a fleet of fuel trucks, which he sold to buy a lazy little furniture refinishing shop. This is where his love for wood and wood-work began. He longed for a simpler and more natural life. He loved his woods and cursed those who disrespected their own property and nature.

A private memorial service will be held for the family. Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Phillip A Heymann (1952 – 2020)

On Sunday, May 10, 2020, Phillip Andrew Heymann, beloved brother, cousin and friend died at the age of 67. The cause was stage 4 stomach cancer that had metastasized to his liver by the time it was discovered in late February of this year.

Shortly after his diagnosis, Phil regretfully left Chelsea, Michigan to spend his last weeks in Southern California where his sister, Kathy could care for him in her home.

Born on July 18, 1952 in Corning, New York, Phil was the first boy and third child of six born to James and Helen Heymann. As a child, Phil was a quiet, tow-headed boy who loved turtles and was the best student in the family. At a young age, he discovered that he loved golf, which he played as often as possible, nearly all his days. He worked as a caddy during his teen years, competed on his high school golf team, studied golf course management after graduating high school and spent his working life employed at various golf courses until he retired early due to a disabling accident.

Many folks in Chelsea knew Phil only as the guy who rode his bike around town all day, but there were some who knew his story. Phil confided that while his pet pot-bellied pig was alive, he was a homebody who didn’t socialize much. But when his parents and his pet died a few years apart, Phil said those were dark days for him. He decided that if he wanted to have any enjoyment in life, he had to get out of his house as much as possible. As he began to routinely bicycle, the streets of Chelsea, meeting different Chelsea folks, he found his spirits rising and he began to have a sense of satisfaction in his days.

As Phil liked to put it: “The people of Chelsea saved my life.”

Those who knew him well enjoyed Phil’s dry sense of humor. A family story from nearly 30 years ago went like this:  Phil appeared in the kitchen one morning to find a group of adult family members watching Phil’s two-year-old nephew throwing a temper tantrum.  In his usual low-key manner, Phil asked, “What’s wrong with him?”.  Informed that that his nephew was angry because his mother would not give him chocolate Teddy Grahams for breakfast,  Phil looked around and asked, “Why can’t he just  have a cup of coffee and a cigarette like the rest of us?”

Phil is survived by three sisters and two brothers.


Bob Gene Ford
of Chelsea

Age 86, passed away peacefully with his family Thursday, June 11, 2020.

He was born August 7, 1933, in Caraway, Arkansas, the son of Bill and Kathryn (Staples) Ford.

Bob served in the US Army, in Germany, from 1953-1955. He worked at General Motors Hydromatic. Bob did Intarsha (woodworking with different colors of wood). Bob loved growing cacti and watching John Wayne movies. He liked to feed the birds, gardening, and most of all, spending time with his family.

He married Babette J. Batchelor in Ann Arbor on October 10, 1981, and she survives. Other survivors include four daughters, Betty Ford of Saline, Joyce (Larry) Kaas of Dexter, Anna Sakcriska of Kansas, Mariette Purslow of Chelsea; one sister, Shirley Judy of Ann Arbor; 7 grandchildren, Michelle, Melissa, Matthew, Christina, Daniel, Carrie, and Amy; 13 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, James Ford.

The family will receive friends on Monday, June 15, at Cole Funeral Chapel.

Due to Covid restrictions, please call the funeral home at 734-475-1551 to schedule a time to pay your respects. A private burial will take place Tuesday, June 16, at Washtenong Memorial Park in Ann Arbor.

Memorial contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation or a charity of your choice.


Ralph Richard Cook, MD, MPH
Dexter, MI, formerly of Detroit, Midland, Ann Arbor, Trout Lake

Age 81, died peacefully at home of natural causes on Monday, June 8, 2020.

He was born February 21, 1939 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of George R. and Florence Irene (Armstrong) Cook.

Ralph graduated from Hope College and Wayne State University Medical School.  He served in the US Army from 1962-64, working in a Medical Research Lab. He went on to study at U of M School of Public Health, and studied epidemiology at University of N. Carolina.

He was employed at Dow Chemical and Dow Corning for 32 years.

In May of 1969, he married Joann Kovack in Detroit, and she survives. Other survivors include two children, Eric C. (Amy Weimer) Cook and Kara A. (Derek) Cudini, both of Ann Arbor; a brother, Robert (Carla)  Cook of Almont; 4 grandchildren; and 1 niece and 1 nephew.

No services are planned at this time.

Memorial contributions may be made to the UMRC Foundation, 805 W. Middle St., Chelsea, MI 48118 or Arbor Hospice, 2366 Oak Valley Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48103.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Joyce Evon Weir

Age 79, died peacefully Wednesday, June 3, 2020 at her home with her family around her.

She was born November 8, 1940 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of John William and Alta “Blanche” (Manor) Andress.

Joyce was a former member of Chelsea First United Methodist Church and later attended Immanuel Bible Church.

Early in her career she worked as a stenographer for the Social Security Administration. Joyce also ran a daycare from the late 70’s to early 2000’s.

She loved her cats and donated to the Humane Society and other animal organizations. She and Glenn were members of the Jaycees. She attended the Chelsea Wellness Center for many years and enjoyed going to events at the Senior Center. 

Joyce had many collectibles, she also enjoyed a weekly game of Chinese Train with her family. Joyce loved to travel and take her family with her, spending precious moments with her grandchildren.

On Oct. 23, 1965, she married Glenn Gordon Weir in Ann Arbor, MI, and he preceded her in death on April 28, 2014. Survivors include four children, Tim (Marie) Weir of Michigan Center, Daniel (Kim) Weir of Chelsea, Jennifer (Ryan) Hudson of Jackson, Amy (Matt) Majeske of Chelsea; 7 grandchildren, Geoffrey, Rileigh, Ayden, Will, Gauge, Morgan, Madison, and Lucas Weir expected in July; a sister, Carol Palluth of CA; a brother, Lyle (Marcia) Andress of Ann Arbor; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by an infant grandson, Caleb Weir, a sister-in-law, Shirley, and brother-in-law Bill Palluth.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel on Tuesday, June 9. Due to Covid restrictions, please call the funeral home at 734-475-1551 to schedule a time to pay your respects.

Private funeral services will be held on June 10.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of your choice.


Norma M. Barker
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 95, died Saturday, May 30, 2020 at her daughter’s home in Grass Lake.

She was born July 20, 1924 in Shepherd, MI, the daughter of Carl and Edna “Irene” (Struthers) Girven.

Norma graduated from Shepherd High School. She was a resident of Chelsea since 1956. Norma was a devoted wife and mother, involved in her kid’s lives and she loved seeing their photos.

She had a green thumb and loved to garden. Norma enjoyed euchre, scrabble, and doing crossword puzzles. She also enjoyed the social activities at The Pines. Norma followed her beloved Detroit Tigers and watched all of the games.

On July 8, 1946, she married Dale Barker in Lansing, Michigan, and he preceded her in death on July 23, 2008.

Survivors include two sons, Douglas (Sheila) Barker of Jackson, Dennis (Melinda) Barker of The Villages, FL; a daughter, Debra (Robert Henderson) Barker of Grass Lake; 4 grandchildren, Dawn, Denise, Robert III, Thomas; 6 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; one brother, Carl (Paula) Girven; one sister, Marcia (Walt) Lueth; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by 8 siblings.

The family will receive friends at Cole Funeral Chapel in the evening of June 4th. Please call the funeral home at 734-475-1551 to schedule a time to pay your respects. Burial will be at Salt River Cemetery, Shepherd, Michigan.

Memorial contributions may be made to Arbor Hospice.


Earnest Delbert “Frank” Lawson
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 70, died Tuesday, May 26, 2020 at his home due to natural causes.

He was born May 19, 1950 in Louisville, Kentucky, the son of Walter William and Julia Irene (Barefield) Lawson.

Earnie attended Wayne Memorial High School, then served in the US Army during the Vietnam war from June 1968 to June 1971. He worked as an independent carpet installer.

Earnie loved fishing and was often seen riding his scooter around Chelsea in the last few years.

Survivors include his brothers, Wendell (Cindy) of Manchester, Wayne (Debbie) of Lima, OH, Ronnie (Debbie) of Marquette, and Donald (Pamela) of Belleville; three daughters, Julia Lawson of Garden City, Jamie Lawson of Westland, and Amy Martin of Ohio; two sons, Jacob and Adam, both of West Bloomfield; and several grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Duane.

A private visitation was held at Cole Funeral Chapel on Friday, May 29.


William Leslie “Les” Rogers
“No Les, no more”

of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Ann Arbor, age 86, died peacefully on Sunday, May 17, 2020 at Chelsea Retirement Community, of Alzheimer’s Disease.

He was born March 27, 1934 in Boston, MA, the son of William Llew and Persis (Worcester) Rogers.

Les graduated from Pleasantville High School, Pleasantville, NY in 1951. He graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University in 1955, and earned an MS and Ph.D. in nuclear Physics from Case Western Reserve University. In 1968, Les moved his family to Ann Arbor to start his career at Bendix Aerospace, where he worked on a project to design a Life Detector Module for the Mars Lander.

In 1970, he was recruited as a research scientist in the Division of Nuclear Medicine at the University of Michigan, where he not only had a very distinguished career, but also found a home. During his career he held appointments as a Professor and Research Scientist in the Departments of Internal Medicine and Biomedical Engineering. He served as an academic advisor for graduate students and was a grant reviewer for the National Institutes of Health.

Les was an outstanding researcher and scientist, a creative problem solver, a patient teacher and mentor. He held several patents and authored many publications, scientific presentations and several book chapters. In 1998, he was awarded the IEEE Edward J Hoffman Medical Imaging Scientist Award. He retired in 2000.

Although he made significant contributions to medical imaging technology what he loved most were the human connections. Having colleagues, collaborators and students all over the world gave him immense pleasure and enriched his life greatly. When his Alzheimer’s had progressed to a stage where he could no longer explain the work he did, he was still able to express the joy he received from the relationships he’d made.

Outside of work, Les enjoyed keeping busy with home improvement projects, camping, fishing, canoeing, photography and building sets for Burns Park Players. He loved exploring the Upper Peninsula, searching for the perfect campground, hiking to a secluded waterfall.

One of his proudest achievements was the design of a vacation home in Big Bay, MI. He spent 10 years carefully planning, revising and perfecting every detail of the house. It started as a modest vacation cottage and ended as a 2,400 sq ft., 3-bedroom, 3-bath winterized house on the shore of Lake Superior.

Les was meticulous in every phase of every project that he undertook. He never met a grade 2000 sandpaper that he didn’t like, never left a seam unspackled, a fence rail unlevel, a martini unstirred, or an olive unskewered. He exemplified the phrase “If you’re going to do it, do it right.”

Les was known for his great sense of humor. He loved practical jokes and had an inherent ability to make puns. He was able to retain his skill with words well into his cognitive decline. Once, recently, when asked if he wanted to visit a yarn store he replied, “I am not a knitwit.”

The worse the pun, the louder the groan, the happier he was. When he learned that turkey buzzards returned annually to Hinckley, Ohio on the Ides of March he decided it was a fitting cause for celebration and every year a Buzzards Day Party occurred complete with a buzzards leap contest and a call for scientific papers.

On March 4, 1962, he married Ann Wood in Alliance, OH, and she survives. Other survivors include three daughters, Virginia (Kevin Curnow), Helen (Ted) Lardner, Katherine (Tim Peitsch), grandchildren, Trevor and Owen Curnow, Isabel and Caleb Lardner, siblings John (Barbara), Persis (Richard) Granger, nieces and nephew Robin and Laurel Granger and Lisa and Richard Wood.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his stepmother Virginia Rogers, and his sister, Nancy Bonsal.

A celebration of life will be held at a later time.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the charity of your choice. Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.

True to his sense of humor and love of puns, Les was known to proclaim that his epitaph should read, “No Les, no more”.


Lauri JoAnne Robertson
Chelsea, MI, formerly of Detroit and Canton

Age 69, died peacefully Tuesday, May 19, 2020 at her home.

She was born April 1, 1951 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Richard and Geneva “Monell” (Nix) Moore.

Lauri graduated from Henry Ford High School in Detroit in 1969. Family was everything to Lauri, and she especially loved watching her grandkid’s sporting events. She was crafty, and enjoyed shopping. Lauri enjoyed sporting events, the Detroit Tigers and Red Wings were her favorite teams.

On June 19, 1970, she married Wally Robertson in Hamtramck, and he survives. Other survivors include a son, Scott (Kristi) Robertson of Plymouth; three daughters, Heather (Ryan) Valik of Chelsea, Tracy (Trevor) Brewster of Dexter, Beth Anne (Michael) Stofer of Chelsea; a sister, Vicki (Robert) Rodriguez; 10 grandchildren, and a nephew. She was preceded in death by her parents.

A private graveside service will be held Thursday, May 21, 2020, at Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to Arbor Hospice.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.


Donald “Bud” L. Davis, Jr.
Milan, MI, formerly of Gregory, MI

Age 73, died Sunday, May 3, 2020 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Chelsea. He was born March 11, 1947 in Altoona, PA , the son of Donald L. and Ida Belle (Daughenbaugh) Davis, Sr.

Don attended Wayne High School, then join the US Army during the Vietnam war, serving in Korea.  He was a member of the American Legion #570 in Stockbridge.

Don and his first wife, Marcia, owned “Don’s Snack Shack” in Stockbridge. He also worked for Paramount Coffee for over 20 years. He loved boating and lived on Woodburn Lake in Gregory for many years. He attended Crossroads Community Church in Stockbridge, and after they moved to Milan, attended Calvary Baptist in Ypsilanti.

On October 25, 1969, he married Marcia M. Himmelein in Las Vegas, NV, and she preceded him in death on April 15, 2008. On July 21, 2012, he married Sharon (Wolff) Pritt, and she survives. Other survivors include a son, John (Michelle) Davis of Unadilla; a daughter, Jamie (Mike) Lewis of CA; 4 grandchildren, Jacob, Madyson, Dakota, John Jr.; 4 great-grandchildren, Tyler, Brody, Alex, Brooklyn; his siblings, Judith Stewart, Mary Wilkins, Katherine (Kevin) Stress, James Davis, Donna (Andy) Anastasia, Patrick (Teresa) Davis; his step-children, Stephan (Robin) Pritt, Michelle (Richard) Getchell, Jacqueline (Stephen) Ardrey; step-grandchildren, Paige, Emily, Riley, Madeline, Carson, Elizabeth, Sawyer, Philip; and 3 step-great-grandchildren, Arabella  Eleanor and Rowan.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Wendy Davis of Unadilla; a grandson, Bradley; and a brother, Sam Davis.

Bud (Don) had a stroke in June of 2013. Sherry cared for him from that day forward. They moved from the lake in 2018 to a handicap accessible home in Milan so he could be at home. He had many problems, but she was always at his side to fight for him. He wasn’t always able to be home but whenever possible she had him there.

When he wasn’t able to be home, she spent long hours sitting with him. She took him to every family event that she could. He wanted to go to Charlies in Perry for burgers whenever possible. He will be missed by all of us but the biggest heartache is with his wife and family. When the covid virus prevented visits, she called several times a day. He has many friends to mourn his loss, also. Don’s family would like to thank Sherry for the love and care she gave to Don during his last years.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea Retirement Community, 801 W. Middle St, Chelsea, MI 48118; or to Huron valley PACE, 2940 Ellsworth Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Helen F. Brainerd
Munith, MI

Age 95, died Friday, May 1, 2020 at the Chelsea Retirement Community due to complications from COVID 19.

She was born October 20, 1924 in Brownville, Minnesota, the daughter of Matt and Francis (Hartel) Mollner. Helen was best known as the “Garage Sale Lady”. Everyone will miss her freezer jam her cakes, and especially her cereal cake.

On Dec. 23, 1945, Helen married Hiram Brainerd in Ecorse, Michigan and he preceded her in death in 1967. In addition to her husband, she was also preceded in death by a son, Michael, and ten brothers and sisters.

She leaves behind three daughters, Sherry Orrell, Collette Sprenkel, and Annette Stiers. She also leaves behind eight grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

There will be no public services. A private burial will be held at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Waterloo, Michigan.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Katherine Rose Purdy
Ann Arbor, Michigan, formerly of Whitmore Lake and Mancelona

Age 95, died Thursday, April 30, 2020 at Brookdale Senior Living in Ann Arbor.

She was born January 10, 1925 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Frederick and Daisy (Edwards) Altenbernt.

Katherine worked at Dapco in Dexter, Ulrich’s Bookstore in Ann Arbor, the IGA in Dexter, and she also cleaned houses. She was a member of the Dexter Seniors and was part of several card game groups with the Chelsea Seniors. Katherine enjoyed sewing and gardening; and drove a lot as she liked to travel and go camping with her family.

Katherine is survived by two sons, Dale (Wendy) Purdy of Pinckney, Rick Purdy of Mancelona; one daughter, Gayle (Gary) Mosher of Dexter; one sister, Gloria Altenbernt; five grandchildren, Jason (Melisa) Mosher, Daryl (Anne) Mosher, Lisa (Ryan) Fuqua, Justin Dentel and Jacob Dentel; 11 great-grandchildren, Alexandria (Colton) Fodor, Taylor Mosher, Cheyenne Mosher, Makayla Miller, Brody Miller, Gracin Miller, Kara Steinaway, Haile Steinaway, Alex Steinaway, Kevin Rinderknecht, and Chloe Fuqua; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Charles Purdy; 3 brothers, Nelson Altenbernt, Noble Altenbernt, Elmer Altenbernt; and 4 sisters, Beatrice Barth, Delma Dempsey, Daisy Raje, Florence Miller.

Burial will be at Forest Lawn in Dexter, Michigan. 

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Gerald Joseph Tartoni

Gerald “Jeri/Jerry/Jere” Tartoni was born on September 9, 1941, to Helen (Lazzeri) and Guiseppe “Joe” Tartoni. 

He took his final bow on April 21, 2020.

In his life, Jeri took the road less traveled. After graduating from Bentley High School in Livonia in 1959 he married and started his family at the same time as he pursued his college education. He graduated from Eastern Michigan University majoring in political science and philosophy and earned an accelerated fellowship at Wayne State University.

Jerry had a brilliant mind. He loved to challenge his oldest daughter, Natalie, to logic games at a very early age, which he regretted when she became a teenager.

Jerry was a great teller of stories and cultivated the imagination and creativity of his children and grandchildren. He loved literature, music, and poetry. He was an original foodie, but he would also eat anything his young children made for him, including a beautiful sugarless grape Kool-aid pie his daughter Leah made and saltine pancakes his daughter, Nicci, made when they were young. He ate his children’s creations with a smile on his face (no matter how disgusting it was) to encourage their culinary creativity. 

He loved to write obscure poems with skewed spelling and doodles of cubes. He would share these poems with anyone, but especially his children, who often thought it was a form of punishment or torture.

Jerry enjoyed philosophical conversations. He often did this on long hikes or over a game of chess with his son, Joe, teaching him how to think analytically by looking at any topic from a variety of angles.

Jeri introduced his family to his life partner and best friend, Beth, at his nephew’s wedding in 1994. Her love, support, and guidance made him a better man, father, and grandfather/Nonno. She became the bridge between the past and the present and an integral part of the entire family.

Jere will be remembered and missed by his soulmate, Beth Yaroch, his four children: Natalie (Ed) Masha, Leah (Mark) Hilty, Nicci (Wade) Rosted, Joe (Erin) Tartoni, and his eleven grandchildren: Cody Masha, Dustin Masha, Courtney Hilty, Matthew Hilty, Keelie Rosted, Kacy Rosted, Averi Rosted, Caden Rosted, Max Tartoni, Mia Tartoni, and Evelyn Tartoni. He will also be missed by his former wife and friend, Nancy Tartoni, his siblings, Don (Jan) Tartoni, Sylvia (Larry) Tengel, Linda (Jay) Lindsey, and many nieces, nephews, and friends. And also by his beloved cats, Mylez and Potter. 

A celebration of life will happen at a later date when we can be all together.


Huxol, Ann Scannell

Age 93 of Chelsea, MI, formerly of Edina, MN, Big Rapids, MI and Brookings, SD, passed away on April 18 of COVID 19 and complications from multiple falls.

She was born in Waterloo, IA on July 23, 1926. She attended school in Center Point and Iowa City, Iowa. She married Donald Scannell on Dec. 20, 1946. Ann was preceded in death by husband, Don, daughter Kay Scannell and Sister Ellen Brannaman.

She is survived by daughters Vicki (Andrew) Erdmann, of Minneapolis and Gale (Paul) Marcoux of Munith MI, grandchildren Rebecca and Robert Erdmann, and Brother Robert Holloway.

Ann was a wicked scrabble player. She played to win, and usually did! She also enjoyed bridge, euchre, book club and outings with friends.

She will be forever missed for her big heart, and sassy personality.

Due to COVID 19, services will be scheduled at a later date.

Memories may be directed in Ann’s name to the Chelsea Senior Center, 512 Washington St., Chelsea MI 48118.


Elaine Hope Joseph Bonwit
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 98, died Monday April 27, 2020, at Chelsea Retirement Community.

She was born December 23, 1921, in Hempstead, New York, the daughter of Morris and Gertrude (Silberstein) Joseph. Elaine was raised on Long Island, New York.

She graduated from her all-girls high school as Valedictorian at age 15 1/2, enrolled briefly at City College of New York, and then moved to Washington, DC, at age 19. There, Elaine attended George Washington University, earning a degree in Accounting. On July 10, 1943, she married fellow GW grad Stuart Bonwit.

In later years, Elaine became a computer analyst, working for the Federal Government for more than 20 years. She and Stuart lived in Silver Spring, Maryland, for 60 years, where they raised their children, before moving to Chelsea in 2010.

Elaine played tennis into her 70’s, and enjoyed her “adopted” shelter dogs into her 80’s. She was very devoted to her family.

Stuart preceded Elaine in death in 2016. She is survived by her two daughters:  Karen (Mark) Slutsky of Natick, MA, and Judy (Bill) Brown of Dexter; three grand-children: Simon (fiancée Mollie) Slutsky, Deborah (Ben) Sherwin, Dan (fiancée Danielle) Blethen; and two great-grandsons: David and Oren. She was preceded in death by her older sister, Marion Schoen.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Retirement Community to be used for the staff.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


John William (Jack) Merkel

John William (Jack) Merkel, age 90, died Sunday April 19, 2020 at Silver Maples Retirement Community, in Chelsea, MI with family present.

He was born in Chelsea, MI on December 23, 1929, one of four siblings and son of Mary Estelle Young and Ferdinand W. Merkel.

Following graduation from Chelsea High School (Class of 1947), he studied Business at Ferris State University and then Philosophy and Theology at Assumption College (now University of Windsor).

He met the love of his life, MaryAnn Gabel, on a blind date in Ann Arbor, and they were married on September 13, 1952. Shortly thereafter, he was called to military service in the Korean War, where he saw combat in the 7th Division as a 2nd Lieutenant infantry platoon leader.

Returning from service in 1954, Jack joined his father and uncle in business at Merkel Brothers Hardware Store, and he and MaryAnn built a home in Chelsea where they raised five sons and were active community members for the next 67 years. 

In 1956, Jack’s brother and future business partner, Bob Merkel, joined the business. For 56 years, they grew and evolved the business into the present-day Merkel Furniture and Carpet One, which is now owned and operated by Jack’s son and grandson, along with Bob’s son.

Jack understood the importance of service in the community. He served as Village President and as a member of the Chelsea Planning Commission. His service on boards of directors included the Chelsea Library, Chelsea United Way Chelsea Chamber of Commerce, Chelsea Community Hospital, Chelsea State Bank, and Silver Maples. He and MaryAnn were lifelong members of St. Mary Church, where Jack read at Sunday mass for 53 years.

Jack was honored with the “Citizen of the Year” award for his leadership of a Chelsea Village Council committee to upgrade and strengthen Chelsea’s government from village to home rule city, a difficult, complicated, and litigious process that lasted over ten years. Following this, he led the committee that wrote Chelsea’s home rule city charter.

Jack enjoyed reading, travel, theatre, music and loved playing bridge. He could often be found on the tennis courts, golf course, or ski slopes all of which he enjoyed until late in his life. He especially enjoyed the many trips to the family deer camp in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan with his brother, sons, grandchildren and friends.

He is survived by his sons, John, Tim (Anne), Dan (Candace), Matt (Elise), and Richard (Christine); his grandchildren, Brian, George, Charlie, Daniel, Molly, Lauren, Lucy, Helen, and Tomas, and great-grandchildren, Gunnar and Baz. He is also survived by brothers, Robert (Barbara), and Patrick (Sandra), sister in-law, Jane, and many nieces and nephews. Jack was predeceased by his wife, MaryAnn, his sister, Gertrude (Dot), and daughter in-law, Sayra.

Visitation and Memorial Service will take place at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Faith in Action and Saint Louis Center. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.


William J. Hahn
Ypsilanti, MI, formerly of Chelsea

Age 93, died Saturday, April 18, 2020 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital.

He was born June 27, 1926 in Jackson, Michigan, the son of William C. and Sophie (Krygowski) Hahn.

Renaissance man. World War II veteran. Beloved Teacher. Loving husband.

Bill graduated from Jackson High School in 1944. He served in the Army Medical Corp stateside during WWII after many failed attempts to enlist due to poor eyesight. He graduated from the University of Detroit (where he met the love of his life) and the University of Michigan with a double Masters.

Bill taught at Cody High School in Detroit (10 years) and Churchill High School in Livonia (22 years) until his retirement in 1990. After retiring, he lived in his dream home in Gregory, MI.

Bill ran the entertainment stage at the Michigan State Fair during the 60s. He was an Apiarist, selling honey at the Ann Arbor Farmer’s Market. Bill was a former president and glider pilot with the Sandhill Soaring Club in Chelsea. He was a proud member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Dexter.

His grandchildren have many fond memories of Grandpa’s delightful hayrides.

Loving husband of Elvira DiCicco for 68 years. Other survivors include a sister, Marianne Hahn of IL; his children, Paul (Jennie) Hahn of Ann Arbor, Mary (Marshall) Bice of IL, Thomas (Sandra) Hahn of Ann Arbor, John (Lori,Rain) Hahn of AZ; his grandchildren, Brian (Sarah) Kuzma, Laura Kuzma, Angelina Bice, Spenser Bice, Jonathan (Amanda) Hahn, Christopher Hahn, Alexandra (Jacob) Kearly, Brianna LaBelle-Hahn and Alana LaBelle-Hahn. Great-grandchildren, Brendan Kuzma, Miles Kuzma, Annie Lynn Alexandra Hahn, Thia Whitler and Emma Cash. He was preceded in death by his brother, Robert; daughter, Katherine (Steve Kuzma, Lewis Bantom) and son, William Jr.

A private burial will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Dexter, Michigan. Memorial contributions may be made to the Friends of Chelsea District Library, 221 S. Main St, Chelsea, MI 48118.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Ann Lucille Crispell
Of Chelsea, MI, formerly of Bloomfield Hills, MI.

Ann passed away peacefully at age 91 on Sunday, April 19, 2020, at the Evangelical Home in Saline.

She was born October 4, 1928 in Canton, OH, the daughter of Louis and Mary (Contini) Schiavone.

Ann studied fashion design at Pratt School of Design and worked as a fashion illustrator in Canton until she met and married Roger Lloyd Crispell. After a start in Ithaca, New York, they spent most of their married life in Bloomfield Hills.

Throughout her life as an artist, wife, mother and grandmother, she used her creative abilities and outstanding memory in countless generous ways. She was an avid reader, member of the “Red Hats” of Chelsea, as well as a member of a Chelsea book club.

She and Roger were founding members of the Ithaca Art Association and after moving to Michigan brought their experience and ideas with them. Ann and Roger were founding members of the Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center. They were also active members of the Crispell Family Association located on Historic Huguenot Street in New Paltz, NY.

After seeing their children established, Ann and Roger moved to Chelsea, MI in 1998 to enjoy condominium life, retirement, and being near family.

Ann was very outgoing, making friends wherever she went. She was always an available “Mom” and “Grandma” to her family including her four children: Kray Crispell of Ann Arbor, MI,  Gar (former wife, Linda Summerfield) Crispell of Chicago, IL, Janice (Paul) Olejniczak of Chelsea, MI, Tracie (William) Christie of Chelsea, MI; and eight grandchildren: Sean, Madeline, Benjamin, Bryce, Kyrt, Drake, Ellen and Katie. Ann was preceded in death by her husband Roger on May 22, 2016; as well as her two brothers, Joseph and Lawrence Schiavone.

Private funeral arrangements were made with Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, MI. Burial will be in Oak Grove Cemetery in Chelsea.

Memorial donations can be made to Historic Huguenot Street to benefit Crispell Memorial Church, 88 Huguenot Street, New Paltz, NY 12561.


Charles M. Stillion
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 80, passed away Saturday, April 18, 2020.

He was born March 31, 1940 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Clarence Ira and Dorothy Stillion.

Chuck graduated from Pioneer High School in 1958, and attended Washtenaw Community College to become a machinist. He was the owner of Stillion Industries from 1971 – 2007.

Chuck was the former secretary of the Machining Association. He was a loving husband for 60 years. Chuck was also a loving and caring Dad and Grandpa, who will be sadly missed by his family.

On June 4, 1960, he married his childhood sweetheart, Shirley Mae Hogan, and she survives. Other survivors include his son, Keith (Sharon) Stillion of Chelsea; his daughter, Linda Hudson of Chelsea; 2 brothers, William (Judy) Stillion of Alpena, Robert (Marlene) Alexander of Whitmore Lake; 2 grandsons, Andrew (Bridget) Harwood, Jacob Hudson; a great-granddaughter, Brooklyn Rose Harwood; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence Stillion, his mother, Dorothy Alexander, and a grandson, Neil Harwood.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel.


Kenneth E. Johnson
of Chelsea, MI, formerly of Bloomington, MN

Age 91, died Saturday, April 4, 2020 at the Chelsea Retirement Community.

He was born January 21, 1929 in St. Paul, MN, the son of Edwin B. and Helen (Larkey) Johnson.

Kenneth served in the Army National Guard from 1951 to 1952, during which time he married Vionne E. Formo, also of his hometown of Granite Falls, MN. Kenneth’s 32-year career in sales and marketing management with Northwestern Bell/AT&T entailed transfers to New Jersey, Iowa, Minnesota, and Kansas City. Throughout his career, and later in retirement, he and Vi enjoyed extensive travel around the U.S. and Europe.

Ken was a member of Dexter United Methodist Church, and formerly a member of Hope Presbyterian Church in Richfield, MN where he was a Deacon and an Elder, as well as an avid choir member.

Ken and Vi moved to Chelsea in 2012 where they have greatly enjoyed being near family and living in a vibrant small town community. Most recently they moved to the Chelsea Retirement Community, expanding their network of friendships.

The family is deeply grateful for the excellent caretaking of Ken at the CRC, St. Joseph Mercy Chelsea Hospital, and Arbor Hospice.

The well-loved head of a devoted family, Ken leaves behind his wife, Vionne; daughter Wendy (Bill Smith) of New York City; son Scott (Tamra) of Chelsea; daughter-in-law Laurie Clark of Providence, RI; and seven grandchildren: Joseph (Marelly), Daniel (Leslie), Natalie, Matthew (MaryAnn), Andrew, Ben, and Mabel. Ken was preceded in death by his son, Dr. David Johnson.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to Dexter United Methodist Church or the charity of your choice in Kenneth’s name.


John “Fred” Griffith
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Ann Arbor, Michigan

Age 92, died Wednesday, April 8, 2020 at Silver Maples Retirement Neighborhood.

He was born January 5, 1928 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Edwin Amsden and Alene Margarete (Gerstner) Griffith.

He leaves his wife of 71 years, Bonnie (Bergren) Griffith; his daughter Linda, and son-in-law Terry Hurst of Dexter; granddaughters Julie Hurst of San Diego and Laurie Corcoran (William) of Brunswick, GA; two great-grandchildren; and many friends.

Fred grew up in Ann Arbor and graduated from Ann Arbor High School in 1946. He served in the US Merchant Marines, Michigan Air National Guard, and US Air Force. Fred retired from the Detroit Edison in 1990, following a 31-year career in appliance repair and customer service.

Fred designed and built his family’s home on Dexter-Ann Arbor Road in 1960. He and Bonnie lived there happily until moving to Silver Maples in 2015. Over the years, Fred spent many happy hours at home, working in the yard, extensive gardens, and his workshop.

A memorial service will be planned for later this year.

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

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.


Richard Harold Bandrofchak, Jr.
April 26, 1960 – April 9, 2020
of Munith, MI

Rich died early Friday morning under the loving care of his daughter, Aireal. He lost his short battle with cancer.

He is survived by his precious daughter Aireal and 2 step-daughters Amber and Andrea. He is also survived by a sister, Malissa. He was preceded in death by his mother, father, and brother.

Rich graduated from Ann Arbor Pioneer High School. He was a painter at U of M until his retirement. He loved working with wood and was very proud of making Aireal’s first highchair with his own hands.

Rich will be cremated with no services.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family, with checks made out to “Aireal Bandrofchak” and mailed to Cole Funeral Chapel, 214 E. Middle St, Chelsea, MI 48118.


Patricia Ann Robards
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 83, died Thursday, April 2, 2020 at Chelsea Retirement Community.

She was born March 17, 1937 in Waterloo Township, the daughter of Joseph S. and Geraldine B. (Curry) Siegrist.

Pat graduated from Grass Lake High School in 1955 and remained in contact with many of her childhood friends through the years. Pat was a beloved mother and grandmother.

As a mother, she was always there to help her children in any way possible. As a grandmother, she never missed a grandchild’s special day. She was special to each one of her grandchildren and was affectionately known among the grandkids as “Grandma Grape”, as she always had frozen grapes for a snack in the freezer.

Pat was a life-long volunteer in the Chelsea community. She gave countless hours of service to the schools, to the community and to her church. She volunteered as President of the Chelsea Athletic Boosters and was a devoted member of the First Congregational Church. She was an example of selfless service to all.

Most recently, she was a resident at The Pines Apartments in Chelsea where she had many dear friends. She enjoyed being involved in the on-site activities and playing euchre on Monday evenings.

Patricia was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Joan; her parents, Joseph and Geraldine (Curry) Siegrist and her siblings, Richard, Barbara and Bernita. She is survived by her children: Dawn Robards, Tony (Donna) Robards, Becky Clark, Shari Robards and Joyce (Jason) Pierson, along with eight grandchildren: Nathan Clark, Joshua Clark, Zachary Pierson, Jennifer Pierson, Wesley Pierson, Alex Pierson, Adam Robards, and Melissa Robards and seven great grandchildren. Our family thanks all those who have loved our mother through the years. She loved her community and all those who surrounded her. She will be greatly missed.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Please check www.ColeFuneralChapel.com for updates.  Burial will be in Oak Grove Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Congregational Church, 121 E Middle St, Chelsea, MI 48118.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.


Dorine Francis Congdon
Mattawan, Michigan

Age 85, passed away suddenly of natural causes Tuesday, March 31, 2020 in Sun City West, Arizona.

She was born January 14, 1935 in Wyandotte, Michigan, the daughter of Anthony and Jessie (McMillan) Mendis.

Dorine graduated from River Rouge High School in 1953. She earned a bachelor’s degree in teaching from Eastern Normal. Dorine was a bookkeeper for Congdon’s Ace Hardware in Ypsilanti until 1980, and worked in real estate in Traverse City from 1981-2000.

She enjoyed winter in her home in Surprise, AZ. Dorine loved the Southwest, and collecting Native American art. She loved reading, traveling, and spending time with her family.

In 1956, Dorine went on a blind date with Alfred Congdon, and they were married on September 1, 1957. She is survived by her husband, Alfred R. Congdon Sr., a son, Alfred R. (Lilli) Congdon Jr. of Paw Paw, and  a daughter, Jessie E. Burley of Mattawan; six grandchildren, Philip R. (Jess) Parsons, Erin Congdon, Abby (Cory) Hatcher, Emma (Cameron) Kiesgen, Courtney Congdon, Elizabeth Congdon; one great-grandchild, Sutton Kiesgen; and a niece and nephew, Linda Hertz and Don R. Congdon.

A celebration of her life will be held in the future when possible. She was buried at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea, MI.

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

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Lois Marie Lehtinen
Chelsea, MI, formerly of Midland, TX

Age 77, died Friday, March 27, 2020.

Her family sang “Blessed Assurance” and prayed her into the presence of Jesus. She was born January 4, 1943 in Antigo, Wisconsin, the daughter of Frank and Lenore (Emerich) Charles.

Lois graduated from Antigo High School in 1961 and she attended teacher’s college after that. Her greatest joy working was as the administrative assistant for St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Church in Spring, TX. She also really enjoyed working with special needs students.

After she retired, Lois moved to Midland, TX to be near her daughter Laura, where she attended the First Christian Church, sang in the choir, volunteered with the SHARE program helping families and children with special needs, folding bulletins and visiting members.

In the summers, she attended the Chelsea Free Methodist Church where her son pastored, and she mentored the “Rest & Refresh” program, modeled on SHARE. She enjoyed knitting, loved sports (she played basketball in college), and was always amazed by God’s creation. She enjoyed time with her family, and had a great love for the Lord and for people. Lois will be remembered for her infectious laugh and smile.

Survivors include three children, Linda (Emmanuel) Rafla of Louiville, KY, Laura (Brian) Sales of Midland, TX, Larry (Dawn) Lyons of Chelsea, MI; 10 grandchildren, Andrew, Rebecca and Matthew Rafla; Joshua Sales, Angela Sales, Kimberly Hartman and Joseph Sales; Lauren, Sean, and Tim Lyons; 8 great-grandchildren; a brother David (Linda) Charles of Milwaukee, WI; a sister, Gale Demlow of Antigo, WI; as well as extended family and many friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald “Jeff” Lehtinen in 1985; her parents; a sister, Jean Ann DeBot (who died a month ago), and two brothers-in-law, Jerry Demlow and John DeBot.

Burial will be with her beloved husband Jeff at Forest Hill Cemetery in Aurora, Minnesota.

Memorial contributions may be made to UMRC Foundation, 805 W. Middle St, Chelsea, MI 48118, where she enjoyed the joy, love and laughter with her CRC family.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Gail Margaret Starr
of Pinckney

We are saddened to announce the death of Gail Margaret Starr of Pinckney, MI, formally of Chelsea, MI of the Hoffman Family.

Gail was 72 years young and died too soon on Wednesday, March 18, 2020 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Chelsea following a long battle of illness.
She was born August 26, 1947 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, she was one of eleven daughters and one brother of Maurice and Lucille Emma (Barnhardt) Hoffman.

In 1952, an article in the Citizens Patriot titled “GIRLS GALORE” was posted about a family in Chelsea MI with eleven girls and a single son. The article stated there was “a man in Chelsea, MI with enough daughters for a baseball team”. Gail’s father, Maurice Hoffman, promptly phoned the newspaper and said “That’s nothing, we’ve got enough girls for a football team, with a son left over to coach”. Gail and all of her siblings attended St. Mary’s grammar school and Chelsea High school.

Gail married in the late 60’s and was a homemaker and loving mother and wife on a horse farm in Gregory, MI. She and her sister Debbie started Clean Sweep, a house cleaning business in the 80’s which she continued to work for almost 40 years until her death.

Gail remarried and loved to line dance with her late husband Art.She had a passion for planting her flower garden every spring. She enjoyed visiting with her friends on early evenings in the summer to watch the boaters on Portage lake, and of course, talk gossip. But most of all, she loved her family and friends wholeheartedly and without pause. She was someone that you could always count on. But she could NEVER cook potatoes all the way through.

Survivors include her two children, daughter, Lorrie Ann Paxton of Michigan Center; son, Chad Paxton of Pinckney, MI; two remaining sisters, Mary Glazier of Kalamazoo, Barbara Glazier of Kansas; her only brother, Fred Hoffman of Chelsea, MI; five grandchildren, Amber Main, Andrew Ewing, Brandon Fox and Mikayla Olson of Michigan Center and Jessica Sweeny of Pinckney, MI; three great grandchildren, Brycen Fox, Briella Fox and Kaydence Fox; four stepchildren, Debbie Starr-Garrett, Mike Starr, Tammy Starr-Boggs, Cindy Starr-Belville; along with hundreds of cousins, nieces and nephews including Alisha Dorow of New York and Tamara Kearney Schieberl of Texas.

She was preceded in death by both her parents, Maurice & Lucille Emma Hoffman of Chelsea, MI; eight sisters, Phylis Dalton, Maurine Kohler, Joanne Hoffman, Yvonne Minick, Rose Ann Osinski, Carol Sutfin, Sally Higgins and Deborah Kearney; her first husband and father of her children, Gary George Paxton, who also passed away just four months prior on December 23rd, 2019, in Jackson, MI; and her second husband, Arthur Starr, who passed away on March 12th, 2013.

Due to the COVID-19 virus issues within our communities and across our country, memorial service will be held at a future date when family and friends can travel and gather together to remember this remarkable woman. Please check www.ColeFuneralChapel.com, along with Facebook for updates. Her family will post updates on Gail’s Facebook home page that can be found by searching “Starr Gail”.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Barbara H. “Babs” Carroll
1940-2020

Age 80, died Friday, March 27, 2020 at the Chelsea Retirement Community.

She was born January 8, 1940 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Frydryk Yemans and Jane (Thompson) Henkel.

Babs was a longtime member of the recovery community, known and loved by many of us. She was an artist, and being serious about “giving back”, she returned to college (Wayne State) at the age of 60, getting her Masters in Art Therapy. She came back to Ann Arbor and was a prime mover in founding the Art Therapy program at Dawn Farm.

Babs was a member of the Washtenaw Alano Club. She was a Master Gardener, and an artist (painter).

She went to High School at Kingswood School in Bloomfield Hills and got her BFA from Goddard College in Vermont.

Her husband recently deceased, Babs was shocked one day to get a letter from her long-lost teenage sweetheart. He had always wanted her back, and after a long internet search offering many names, he sent a letter to the likeliest one. She replied at once, they talked on the phone for the first time in 48 years, and started visiting by train between his home in Boston and hers in Ann Arbor.

They married in 2009 and lived in Dexter until Babs was moved permanently to Chelsea Retirement Center, where she was treated for vascular dementia. She died of blood deficiencies on March 27th.

Sad as this is, it does fulfill an overriding wish. Pooh says it best to Christopher Robin:  If you live to be a hundred, I want to be a hundred minus one day, so I never have to live without you.

Babs never lost her game, loving spirit, joking and laughing to the last with all she met, and thanking them just for wiping her nose.

She leaves her husband, David; a son, Sasha Bambas; a grand daughter Chloe DeLoach; and two daughters. We’ll miss you, Babs –– may you enjoy your new life with our Ultimate Sponsor. 

Have fun coloring the rainbows…

A viewing will be held at Cole Funeral Chapel, 214 E. Middle St., Chelsea on Saturday, April 4th in the afternoon. Due to Covid 19 situation, please call the funeral home at (734) 475-1551 and we will schedule at time for you to speak with the family and pay your respects. We will follow social distancing protocol at the visitation for everyone’s safety.

Donations in Babs’ name to: Washtenaw Alano Club, 995 N. Maple Rd, Ann Arbor 48103 (734) 668-8138 or Dexter Animal Clinic, 9500 N. Territorial Rd., Dexter 48130 (734) 426-4631 or Towsley Village of Chelsea Retirement Ctr, 805 W Middle St, Chelsea, MI, 48118 (734) 433-1000.


Angelo Alexander Angelocci

Age 93, died Tuesday, March 17, 2020 at Silver Maples of Chelsea.

He was born October 16, 1926 in Trenton, MI, the son of Alexander “Angelo” and Agatha (Cima) Angelocci.

Angelo graduated from Slocum Truax High School, in June of 1944. From there he was inducted into the United States Army infantry in World War II. He served both in the United States and in Japan.

He enrolled at Eastern Michigan University in 1947, where he met Joyce Gladys Hartung. He received his BS degree from Eastern Michigan University, in 1950, his MA from the University of Michigan in 1951 and his PhD from Wayne State University in 1962.

Angelo’s teaching career began at Seaholm High School in Birmingham, MI, 1951-1958. He then continued teaching at Western Washington State University in Bellingham, WA, 1962-1965 and taught at Eastern Michigan University 1965-1988. He was a professor in the Department of Special Education and a member of the Arm of Honor Fraternity at Eastern Michigan University. Professional affiliations included: life membership in the American Speech, Language and Hearing Association; member of the Michigan Speech, Language and Hearing Association; High Scope Educational Foundation; State Career Education Advisory Council; Washtenaw County United Way Board, and the People’s Community Hospital Authority. Other community interests included active participation in the Dexter Community Players and volunteering at the Chelsea Senior Center and ALI in Chelsea.

Pastimes included travel, music, reading, theater, playing bridge, dining out and the company of his many friends. Church affiliations were with St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Ypsilanti, St. James Episcopal Church, Dexter and most recently St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, Chelsea. First and foremost, Angelo was devoted to his wife and family.

On Feb. 9, 1951, he married Joyce Gladys Hartung at St. Luke Episcopal Church in Ypsilanti, and she preceded him in death on December 26, 2005. Survivors include three sons, Keith (Catherine) of Northville,  Mark (Lily) of San Diego, Bradley (Roxanne) of Chelsea; one daughter, Lisa Argenziano of Burbank, CA; 10 grandchildren, Nicholas (Anna) Angelocci, Timothy Angelocci, Jillian (William) Chaklos, Nicole (Casey) Pope, Marie (Rocky) Wiltsey, Blake Angelocci, Kristin Angelocci, Mia (Addam) Farmer, Joseph Argeniano and Anthony Argenziano; seven great-grandchildren, Theo, Ruby, Olivia, Kenley, Finley, Tatum, and Lyla.  He was preceded in death by three brothers; three sisters; a grandson Mark Angelocci; and son-in-law Carmen Argenziano.

A memorial service will be held at a later date at Silver Maples of Chelsea.  Burial will be at St. James Memorial Garden in Dexter.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in Chelsea or St. James Episcopal Church in Dexter.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.


Gene G. Burnett

Age 89. Born November 14,1930, passed away March 3, 2020.

He lived in Grass Lake, but his roots were firmly planted in Nebraska where he was born and raised. He served his country in the Air Force during the Korean War. He was an avid bowler and golfer in Chelsea for many years.

He was a very talented woodworker and could make anything from beautiful dining room tables and chairs to lamps in the barn workshop his son Mark set up for him.

He was loved by his 4 children: Lorena (Keith) Wenger of Ann Arbor, Elaine Steeves of Arkansas, Vicki (Jerry) Craft of Chelsea and Mark (Kitty) Burnett of Grass Lake. He was truly the BEST PA to his 10 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and 3 great great granddaughters. He is survived by 1 brother Wallace (Henrietta) Burnett of Lincoln, Nebraska.

He is proceeded in death by his parents Harry and Nellie Burnett of Florida, 1 sister Loraine Hollenbeck and 2 brothers Harry Burnett and Gordon Burnett.

Per his wishes, there will be no services.

He donated his organs to Science Care for research and his ashes will be scattered at the places he loved to visit.


Gail Ruth Bauer
of Chelsea, MI

Age 80, died Saturday, March 14, 2020.

She was born Gail Ruth Provance on April 25, 1939 in Clarkton, Missouri, the daughter of Elson and Edna (Dunscomb) Provance.

Gail moved to Michigan after graduating from high school, and had several jobs before she joined the Chelsea State Bank in 1968 as a bookkeeper. She was placed in charge of the bookkeeping department in 1975 and was appointed Assistant Vice President and Auditor in 1986. In 1994, she was promoted to Vice President, and she retired in 2000 after a total of 32 years of service.

Gail was an active community member and served on a number of boards and projects, including the Chelsea District Library Capital Campaign Committee.

Gail was a PEO, Daughter of the American Revolution, and a member of the Ann Arbor Women’s City Club. She was a member of St. Paul United Church of Christ, where she served as President of the Church Council.

Gail was an avid supporter of Chelsea athletics and promoted the arts in the area. She was a founding member of Chelsea Area Players and of the Purple Rose Theatre Company, where she held the position of Vice President of the Executive Board for many years. Since retirement, Gail spent as many hours as possible at the bridge table in multiple groups in Chelsea and Ann Arbor.

On May 18, 1957, she married Norman Bauer in Chelsea. He preceded her in death on January 17, 2013.

Survivors include two sons, Dennis (Susan) of Chelsea, Bartley (Alisa) of Chelsea, a daughter, Gayla (Tor) Bauer Blaisdell of Ellensburg, WA; also surviving are sister-in-law, Jayne Bauer, two brothers-in-law, Robert (Mary) Bauer and Donald (Leila) Bauer, a sister-in-law, Barbara (Charley) Fredette, a brother, W.F. “Buck” (Liz) Provance, and two sisters, Barbara “Bobby” (Bob) Tallarico and Margaret (Jerry) McFarland.

Gail was “Grammy” to seven grandchildren: Darl (Carly) Bauer, Cal (Amber) Bauer, Adam Bauer, Devyn Bauer, Nathan Bauer, Tristan Blaisdell, and Lydia Blaisdell; and two great-grandchildren, Gigi Kay Bauer and Boone Cavanaugh Bauer (children of Darl and Carly). She was a special aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Gail was preceded in death by a sister, Betty Ann King, and brothers-in-law, Bob King and Walt Bauer.

A memorial service will be held at St. Paul United Church of Christ on a future date.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul United Church of Christ or the Purple Rose Theatre Company, noting in the memo section: In Honor of Gail R. Bauer. Donations may be mailed to Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 North Main St., Chelsea, MI 48118.


Kelly Love

Age 61, died on March 11th, 2020 at the University of Michigan Hospital with her family by her side.

Kelly grew up in Dexter, Michigan on a farm on Scully Road. She always loved animals and they were a huge part of her life for its entirety. Growing up Kelly participated in 4-H activities showing horses. Aside from the horses, Kelly loved and cared for many other animals on the farm.

Throughout her life Kelly rescued many animals, caring for them like she cared for people, deeply. Her most recent dog, Gracie, was her pride, her joy, and her best friend. Gracie came to her from the Humane Society of Huron Valley from a severe abuse case. Only Kelly was able to give enough patience and compassion to be able to nurse her back to health against all odds.

Professionally, Kelly dedicated her life to her nursing career, helping people in need of care as well. She spent many years working at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in both Ann Arbor and Chelsea. A favorite period in her adult life was during the years that she moved to Fairbanks, AK to work as a nurse there and explore the beautiful wilderness. She had so many adventures and treasured memories from her time there.

Kelly’s love for animals and her family was unwavering. For those who were in her life, Kelly was a constant cheerleader and support system. Helping and caring for others, putting them before herself, is what she truly lived for. She thrived as a caretaker and had such a big heart full of love.

Kelly is survived by her parents, Jim and Pat Love, her siblings, Jim and Kammy, and her nieces and nephews James, Rick, Briana and Eden.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Michigan Medicine trauma team, specifically the Neurology ICU for their exceptional care during her last days.

A visitation will take place on Monday, March 16, 2020 from 5-7 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel at 214 E Middle St. Chelsea, Michigan 48118 followed by a Celebration of Life at 7:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers please make charitable donations in Kelly’s name to Humane Society of Huron Valley, 3100 Cherry Hill Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105.

The Light Remains

There are some who bring

A light so great to the World

That even after they have gone

The Light Remains


Roy George Sanderson
Of Chelsea

Age 77, died Thursday, March 5, 2020, in Novi.

He was born September 1, 1942, in Chelsea, Michigan, the son of George Edward and Lucille May (Hoover) Sanderson. Roy graduated from Chelsea High School in 1962.

He married Roberta (Gerlach) in Aurora, IL in 1967. Roy retired from Ann Arbor Public School System in 2004.

He is survived by his wife, Roberta; son, Joel (Allison) Sanderson of San Tan Valley, AZ; daughter, Johanna Sanderson of Gold Canyon AZ; son-in-law, Charles Vogt; 5 grandchildren, Jacob (Chelsea) Vogt, Joshua (Kylie) Vogt, Molly (Corey) Gorecki, Max and Meghan Sanderson; 2 great-grandchildren, Kasey and Ellie Vogt; his siblings, Lola (Troy) Lewis, Carol Sanderson, Gary (Gayl) Sanderson, Tom Sanderson; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Amy Vogt.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 14, at 2 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Chelsea, MI. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Roy’s life at the Grass Lake Depot after the service from 3-5 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.


Sandra Shapiro

Sandra Shapiro eldest daughter of Archimede and Alma “Pat” (Logan) Marni, sister of Andrea L. Marni (deceased), and dear wife of Stanley Shapiro, died February 21 at Towsley Village in the Chelsea Retirement Community.

She was 84 years old; cause of death was complications of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.

She was a devoted friend of all animals, especially dogs, cats and birds. And she was a lover of the natural world as well, flowers and trees in particular.

A Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of Cincinnati, she went on to collect M.A.s at Indiana University, the University of California, Berkeley, and Eastern Michigan. For some half dozen years she was a historic preservationist at the Ohio Historical Society.

She will be sorely missed by her husband.

Donations may be made to any of the following: Humane Society of Huron Valley, Planned Parenthood, Environmental Defense Fund or Doctors Without Borders.

A gathering in her honor will be held at her home in the near future.


James “Jim” Dean Tallman
of Chelsea

Was born on December 14, 1945. He left our world and his illness behind on Sunday, February 16, 2020.

Jim was a loving, caring, likeable guy who knew no enemies.

He made lasting impressions wherever he went, whether it was out on the water fishing, enjoying 18 holes on the golf course, or spending time at the beach with his family. After graduating from MSU in 1969, Jim spent 34 years teaching and coaching at Chelsea High School, then retired to spend winters at Quail Run Resort, in Wesley Chapel, Florida.

He traveled the US with his wife and family taking memorable camping and fishing trips throughout his life.

Remembering him with love are his wife, Geraldine Tallman (Eddy); his brothers Delbert Tallman of Arlington, Texas, his twin Robert (Patricia) Tallman of Interlochen, and brother-in-law Tom (Brenda) Eddy of Climax. He will be especially missed by his children Christine (Rick) Morton of Garden City and Jimmy (Jill) Tallman of Ada. Also surviving are his grandchildren Kylie Morton, Katelyn Morton, Ryan Tallman, Allison Tallman, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Delbert and Laveta Tallman, his sister Lorraine Handy and in-laws John and Alice Eddy. His family will miss his good nature, love and laughter.

A memorial service will be held on March 6, 2020, at 1:00 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel, with visitation at noon prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, Jim would prefer to have donations made to the family, for a memorial at the Ludington State Park, where his family enjoyed annual trips for more than 40 years.


Elaine Jeanette Boyce
of Ann Arbor

Age 93, died Monday, February 17, 2020, at her daughter’s home.

She was born December 18, 1926, in Chelsea, the daughter of Norman Harold and Lenore Eva Margarita (Kalmbach) Schmidt.

She was a graduate of Chelsea High School, class of 1944. She earned her RN from Deaconess Hospital. She was a nurse for both Dr. Joseph Fisher and Dr. Charles Krausse for many years. Elaine was a longtime member of the Order of Eastern Star.

Elaine married Ellis Boyce on March 11, 1961. At that time, she had a son, Charles Fredette. Ellis had two sons, Alan and Floyd Boyce. After Ellis and Elaine joined the families, they were blessed with two daughters, Kimberly Ann Boyce and Carol Lisa Boyce. Kim and Carol lovingly cared for both parents for many years. For that gift our families are eternally thankful. Thanks also to Ronen Sherman, Kim’s husband, for his assistance with Ellis and Elaine.

Ellis and Elaine loved spending time at their Betsie River Cottage and mushrooming. They also enjoyed traveling together. They made two trips together to Omaha Beach for D-Day anniversary events. They also attended events at the D-Day Museum in New Orleans (Ellis was a D-Day survivor). Elaine was a diehard Michigan fan (that’s an understatement!)

Elaine is survived by five children, Charles (Barbara) Fredette of Chelsea, Alan Boyce of Dexter, Floyd (Mary) Boyce of Gregory, Kimberly (Ronen) Sherman of Ann Arbor, and Carol Boyce of Ann Arbor; sister, Eleanor Hall of Pinckney; 8 grandchildren, Shannon Fredette, Aaron Fredette, Lindsay Boyce, Jordan Boyce, Rachel Boyce, Samuel Boyce, Joel Boyce and Elizabeth Boyce; 4 great-grandchildren, Marissa Fredette, Brer Boyce, Cecelia Boyce, Theoan Boyce; and many nieces and nephews. Elaine was preceded in death by her husband, Ellis Boyce; brother, Richard Schmidt, who died 10 days before Elaine; and brother-in-law, Duane Hall.

Sincere thanks to her first caregiver Dayna Clayborn, the staff at Arbor Hospice and a special thank you to Jill Whyte who lovingly cared for her in her final years.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 22, 2020, 11:00 am. at Cole Funeral Chapel, with Pastor Anthony Dickerson officiating. The family will receive friends Friday from 4-7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Covenant Church, 50 N Freer Road, Chelsea, MI 48118 or the National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA 70130.


Leonard Michael Blaznek
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 85, died Saturday, February 15, 2020 at Chelsea Retirement Community, surrounded by family and friends.

He was born April 28, 1934 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of John Michael and Eleanor Helen (Kozlowski) Blaznek.

The family moved to Chelsea in 1949 and Leonard graduated from Chelsea High School in 1952. Leonard enlisted in the United States Army upon graduation from high school, serving for two years. He was deployed to Japan and honorably discharged.

Leonard served as a City of Ann Arbor firefighter for five years, and then worked for the Dana Corporation for 31 years as a machinist. During his 36 years of employment, he remained on the family farm and assisted his father in farming.

Survivors include a sister, Patricia Ann Piatt of Chelsea; one nephew John (Jenny) Piatt, great nephew and niece, John and Avery Piatt of Chelsea; one niece, Susan Price of Powder Springs, great nieces and nephews, Samantha, Cydney and Ethan, of Powder Springs Georgia, and a special friend, Loretta Douglass of Chelsea. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, John F. Blaznek; and his brother-in-law, Jerry Piatt.

Leonard enjoyed many trips to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and especially the Straights area and crossing the Mackinac Bridge. Leonard was always known for his generosity, and always willing to help.

A Funeral Mass will be held Friday, February 21, 2020, 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 the church Friday 10-11 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Church, of Chelsea.


Elizabeth “Beth” Ann (Harris) Ledwidge
Dexter, MI

Age 73, died Friday, February 7, 2020 at her home.

She was born November 3, 1946 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Walter S. and June May (Young) Harris.

Beth graduated from Chelsea High School in 1965. She worked at the Chrysler Proving Grounds and then retired from Malloy Lithographing on Jackson Rd. in Ann Arbor. Beth was a member of the Ann Arbor Litho Club. She enjoyed sewing and making quilts.

She attended the Christian House of Prayer with her son and daughter. She was a wonderful and very caring mother and grandmother.

In 1973, she married Paul Henry Ledwidge in Webster United Church of Christ, and he survives. Other survivors include her son, David (Monica) Ledwidge of Unadilla; three daughters, Angela (David) Readmond of Tennessee, Jennifer (Tom) Carlson of Chelsea, Sarah (Cory) Beardsley of Indian River; 7 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and one brother, Virgil (Sally) Harris of Grand Blanc. She was preceded in death by a sister, Ernestine “Norma” Penix of Dansville.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, April 25, 11:00 a.m. at the Christian House of Prayer in Pinckney, with George and Carolyn White officiating. A private burial will be at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to Christian House of Prayer, 9949 McGregor Road, Pinckney, MI 48169.

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


Richard “Dick” D. Schmidt
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 94, died Friday, February 7, 2020 in Chelsea.

He was born March 6, 1925 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Norman Harold and Lenore Eva Margarita (Kalmbach) Schmidt.

Dick lived at North Lake for many years, then lived in Manchester for 17 years, returning to Chelsea in ‘95. Dick graduated from Chelsea High School in the class of 1942. Following graduation, Dick enlisted and served with the US Navy in the Pacific during WWII. Upon discharge he was employed by Michigan Bell Telephone for 36 Years.

Dick was a member of St. Paul UCC, where he was a Council Member. He was also a life-long member of the Chelsea Rod and Gun Club and the VFW. Dick had a love for the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, and enjoyed gardening for many years.

On Jun 23, 1951, he married Jean Eisenbeiser in Jackson, and she survives. Other survivors include his children, Joan Schmidt of Ann Arbor and Jeff Schmidt of Chelsea; two sisters, Eleanor Hall and Elaine Boyce; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, Feb. 12, 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul United Church of Christ in Chelsea, with Rev. Eric Stricklin officiating.The family will greet friends from 10-11 am prior to the service. Burial at Oak Grove Cemetery will be held at a later time.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul United Church of Christ, 14600 E Old US Highway 12, Chelsea, MI 48118. 

Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.


Robert “Bob” G. Shepherd
Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of West Farmington, Ohio and Detroit

Age 78, died unexpectedly Saturday, February 1, 2020 at his home.

He was born August 24, 1941 in Warren, Ohio, the son of Robert “Leonard” and Velma (Rathburn) Shepherd.

Bob graduated from W. Farmington High School in 1961, and did his lineman apprenticeship right out of school. Bob started in 1965 in Southfield, MI working for Harlan Electrical Construction. He left there in 1969 and worked for Detroit from 1969-1992.

Bob was the Superintendent of Chelsea Electric from August 9, 1992 until his retirement on January 1, 2003. He had a substation named in his honor.

Bob was a member of the Chelsea Car Club, and the Packard Club. He was proud of his Packard, and his Edsel that he recently restored. Bob was a former member of Redford Free Methodist Church. He loved fishing Muskie with his grandson in Lake St. Clair, and fly-in fishing in Canada. Bob played French horn, acoustic guitar, and recently bought a bass guitar. Bob was a patient person and an avid animal lover.

In 1961, he married Karen Rose McIntosh in West Farmington, OH, and she survives. Other survivors include two daughters, Kelly (Jack) Carvalho of Clarkston, Kayla Shepherd of Chelsea; 2 grandchildren, Ashtyn and Camryn Carvalho; a sister, Lesta Shepherd-Lynch of TX. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his half-brother, Ken Love.

Funeral services will be held Friday, February 7, 1:00 pm at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Jack Carvalho officiating. The family will receive friends Thursday from 2-4 and 6-9 p.m. Burial will be at Hillside Cemetery, West Farmington, OH.

Memorial contributions may be made to Sasha Farm Animal Rescue, PO Box 222, Manchester, MI USA 48158.


Virginia “Ginny” Sayers
Chelsea, Michigan

Age 94, died Wednesday, January 29, 2020, at Silver Maples of Chelsea.

She was born August 19, 1925, in Des Moines, Iowa, the daughter of Lyle and Beulah (Baker) Utsler.

She graduated from Dexter High School, then went to St. Joseph nursing school. Ginny worked as an RN at King-Seeley, then Ann Arbor Family Practice. She retired from the Ann Arbor VA Hospital. Ginny liked playing scrabble and “words with friends” on the internet. She also enjoyed euchre.

She married Edward L. Sayers, Sr., and he preceded her in death on February 23, 1996. Survivors include three sons, Craig (Linda) Sayers of Chelsea, Mark (Liz) Sayers of Richardson, TX, Edward “Mickey” Sayers, Jr. of Chelsea; a daughter, Susan Sayers of Plano, TX; grandchildren, Brian Sayers, Mike (Laura) Sayers, Allison Morvant, Tony (Melissa) Sayers, Richard Parker, Ashlee (Nick) Zboch, Mark Jr. (Jordan) Sayers; 11 great-grandchildren; a brother, Jim (Janet) Utsler of Chelsea. She was preceded in death by a daughter-in-law, Debra Sayers; brothers, William and Gerald Utsler; and a sister, Nancy Aiken.

A memorial service will be held Thursday, February 20, 11:00 am at Silver Maples of Chelsea, with Jeff Crowder officiating. A private burial will be held at Bethlehem Cemetery in Ann Arbor.

Memorial contributions may be made to Silver Maples Endowment Fund or Arbor Hospice. Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel.


Donna Esther (Noah) Lane
of Chelsea

Donna Esther (Noah) Lane, 86, of Chelsea, MI, died peacefully in Chelsea on January 29, 2020.

Donna was born on October 29, 1933 at home near North Lake, the daughter of tenant farmers Laurence Eugene and Esther Mabel (Widmayer) Noah. Donna was baptized at North Lake United Methodist Church. She attended a one-room school, Pumpkin College, through the eighth grade. She then matriculated and graduated from Chelsea High School in 1951 and Henry Ford School of Nursing in 1954. Donna was head nurse at the VA Hospital in Ann Arbor.

On April 8, 1961, she married the love of her life, Wilfred Chandler Lane DVM, at St. Paul United Church of Christ. “Doc“ preceded her in death in 1996. For 35 years, they worked side-by-side seven days a week at Lane Animal Hospital while raising their four children.

Donna was born, raised, married, lived, and died in her beloved hometown of Chelsea. Donna and “Doc” were active in the Chelsea Area Historical Society. Donna became a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, and she especially loved spending time with her grandchildren.

Survivors include their four children, Caroline E. (Mark MD) Saunders of Williamsburg, W. Chandler (Jamie) Lane II of Chelsea, Rev. David L. (Ana) Lane of Cutler Bay, FL, and Jonathan DVM (Margaret DVM) Lane of Chelsea; 10 grandchildren: Chelsea Caroline Saunders, Benjamin Chandler Saunders, Margaret Mary Lane, Caroline Anne Lane, Isabel Esther Lane, Eric Ellis Saunders, Elizabeth Daisy Lane Saunders, Grace Laurence Lane, Elizabeth Mabel Lane, and Richard David (Christina) Seyfried; one great-grandson, Cody Richard Seyfried; sisters-in-law, Frances Lane of Tampa, FL, Camila Noah of Gregory, Mary Ann Noah; as well as five nieces and a nephew. Donna was preceded in death by brothers, Lloyd Noah, Lynwood Noah, and L. Duane Noah; brother-in-law, Charles H. Lane; and one niece.

A Catholic Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, February 8, 11:00 a.m., at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating. Graveside service immediately following with Rev. David Laurence Lane officiating. Visitation will be on Friday, February 7, 2020, 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. (Rosary at 7:30 p.m.) at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, as well as Saturday at the church, 10 a.m. until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to the Chelsea Area Historical Society, St. Mary Catholic Church, or St. Paul United Church of Christ.


John “Dave” Scriven

John “Dave” Scriven, age 80, of Chelsea, MI, passed away on January 7, 2020 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital-Chelsea.

Born on January 20, 1939 in Pontiac, MI. Dave is the son of Clare Albert and Eleanor J. (Riker) Scriven.

He grew up and went to school in Pontiac, MI but spent his summers at his family cottage on Riker Lake in Chelsea. His roots were deep in both areas with buildings, roads, and lakes named after his family. Dave graduated Cum Laude from University of Detroit Mercy with a degree in Marketing and Accounting.

After starting his family, he moved permanently to the Chelsea area and built a home with his wife (Valerie) and children (Laura, Barbara) next door to the cottage where he grew up.

Shortly after moving to Chelsea, he became a charter member in the Chelsea Lions Club where he served as Tail Twister, President, and in other capacities. The Lions were a huge part of his life and the charity work was a passion. He was looking forward to the re-launch, and was formulating ideas to improve and to make it relevant again.

Dave started a local chapter of YMCA-Indian Princesses as Chief Big Bear. He also worked with other local organizations over the years such as the St. Louis School, Masons, the Men’s Golf League at Inverness, CATS bus service, Special Olympics, and he was a Trustee for Dexter Township.

Sports were always a priority to Dave, from lettering in tennis and basketball at Pontiac High, coaching his children’s T-ball and softball teams, serving as assistant coach for freshman and JV basketball at Chelsea High School, to being a season ticket holder for years at U of M men and women’s basketball with his good friends, Bill and Shar Eisenbeiser.

Most of his travel involved sports-related events, championships, and play-offs. Highlights of his later life: being kidnapped by his daughters for his 70th birthday and taken to the sports Halls of Fame around the country; and his 75th-and-a-half birthday celebration at the Classic Game in Cooperstown, NY, where he met most of the living Hall of Famers at a special event.

After retiring as a merchandiser from Ford Motor Company, he continued to be very active in a variety of ways. For 12 years, he ran the pro shop at Inverness Country Club where he got to talk to people all day, exchange sports stories, and do and receive a little harassing. He golfed in many different leagues, enjoyed putzing around the family cottage, took trips with friends, and worked with charities and organizations.  

He is survived by his children, Laura and Barbara Scriven; their mother, Valerie Scriven; sister, Connie O’Donnell; niece, Kathleen, and nephew, Michael; as well as many cousins and other very special friends.

In accordance with his wishes, a memorial service is planned for Saturday, April 25, 2020, 11:00 am, at Inverness Country Club of Chelsea, with an optional round of golf to follow.

He had a huge soft spot for animals and had many rescues (cats, dogs, and even horses) over the years. The family requests expressions of sympathy be made in his name to Mikey & Me, 465 S. Freer Rd. Chelsea, MI 48118, a local dog rescue organization. They take dogs from high kill shelters and give them a place to be loved until they find a home.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, MI, www.mitchellfuneral.com


David Albert Pressly Frisinger

Passed away on January 7th, 2020 in Eugene, OR at the age of 72.

David was born February 28th, 1947 in Ann Arbor, MI to George and Eloise (Schrier) Frisinger. He had three siblings, Paul, Sherry and Roger.

He loved the performing arts and graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelors in Theater.

David married Katharine (Kit) Pressley on January 22nd, 1988 in San Francisco, CA, and they moved to their home in Eugene together on August 8th that same year. He worked as a carpenter, realtor, and was the Head of Maintenance for the First Christian Church in Eugene. He played football, sousaphone, coronet and French horn, and was one of the top academic students in his class.

As an adult, David became interested in social justice and active in peace work. He learned to play the piano as a child and developed a lifelong love for classical music. David also enjoyed Blues and Jazz and was an enthusiastic singer.

David is survived by his spouse, Kit (Pressly) Frisinger of Eugene, OR; his children Carolyn Range of Las Vegas, NV, Janet Range of Portland, OR, Chester Hartsough of San Francisco, CA and Andrea Hartsough San Francisco, CA; his brothers Paul Frisinger of Chelsea, MI and Rodger Frisinger of Albany, OR; and eight grandchildren in Las Vegas, Nashville, Portland, San Francisco, and Santiago, Chile.

A memorial service will be held at First Christian Church, located at 1166 Oak St, Eugene, OR 97401, on January 18th, 2020 at 2PM.

The family asks that contributions be made to First Christian Church or Women’s Action for New Directions (WAND).

Arrangements in the care of Sunset Hills Funeral Home in Eugene, OR.


Cora Johnson Bell
of Ann Arbor

Age 85, died Monday, January 13, 2020, at her home. She was born August 6, 1934, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the daughter of William Arthur and Ida Mae (Word) Brown.

Cora attended the Madonna Parish in Detroit, where she served for many years. She worked for the school district of Highland Park for 34 years. Cora enjoyed bowling and loved spending time with her family and friends. She had a joyful spirit, and everyone loved to be around her. Cora told the truth in a direct, yet loving way.

Cora married Absalom Johnson in 1956, and he preceded her in death in 1966. She later married Eddie Bell, who survives. She is also survived by her sons, Anthony Brown Sr. of Detroit, Andre Johnson of Flint, Miles Johnson of Ann Arbor, Marcus Johnson of Ann Arbor; a daughter, Alice Johnson of Lawrenceville, GA; a sister, Inora Wellington of Chattanooga, Tennessee; 11 grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Michelle Johnson.

A graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 16, 2020, at Chattanooga National Cemetery, Chattanooga, Tennessee, at 10:00 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to her family.

Arrangements by Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea.  


Jeannette Winans
Our community, family, and friends have sadly lost Jeannette Winans, age 94, on January 7, 2020.

She calmly and peacefully slipped away, in the presence of her beloved family, after graciously dealing with dementia for way too long, while staying at Towsley Village, Chelsea Retirement Community of Chelsea, MI.

Jeannette May was born in her Aunt Marie and Uncle Steve’s home in Rockford, OH to Bert and Esther May on May 25, 1925. Jeannette’s early life was spent with a family on the move, following a road-building father, OG May. They lived all over the upper Ohio, Indiana, southern Michigan, and Pennsylvania region (moving too often for Jeannette) to where the jobs were, which were steady during the Depression and WW2.

She was taught to make her own clothes by her mother, Esther, and they raised animals, grew vegetables, canned, swept dirt yards and plank floors in their rented houses, and walked “miles” or rode buses to school. She was always clever about having learned to drive a pickup with the “3-on-the-tree.”

As her family grew older, they ended up in Chelsea, whereupon her mother laid down the law, and there was to be no more moving. Then the girls and brother Leroy could stay in one place and go to high school. That was that.

Jeannette graduated from Chelsea High, proceeded to Chicago for business school, and returned to the area to work in offices at the U of M, Bauser, and Federal Screw Works in Chelsea.

After the war, she met George Winans (her husband, George, of 70 years) in Chelsea, and they enjoyed one another’s company with family and friends alike. Giving the gift of life to three sons, being an integral part of owning and operating the very successful Winans Jewelry Store, assisting with Village of Chelsea clerk’s duties for 10 years, and being a devoted, loving, encouraging, attentive mother of those boys was the stuff that fueled her life. Jeannette was centered and grounded in her values of what makes up a family, and she tirelessly supported all the things that would make her kids well-rounded individuals.

She has been respected for her compassion and love for her oldest son John, who was developmentally disabled and needed an extraordinary amount of guidance, love, and direction. She and George rose to whatever needed to be done so that John could be solid, relatively self-sustaining, kind, and secure. They, as a couple, never, ever let up in their pursuit of all things in his best interest. And he prospered because of them.

Jeannette enjoyed reading, cooking, driving, traveling to 49 states with George, laughing, discussing, and relaxing. She excelled at being an extraordinarily outstanding mother and wife. She loved creating needlepoint projects, cooking, and making all those around her feel joyful and carefree in her companionable presence. Jeannette was respected and very well liked in our small community, and she served it well by helping to set the foundation for the nursery school on Dexter-Chelsea Road and volunteering at Chelsea Community Hospital.

Jeannette is survived by her children, Curt (Menuka) Winans of Chelsea, Rob (Lori) Winans of Chelsea; two grandchildren; and her beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her dear husband, George, son, John, sisters Ruby Strieter and Mary Hoelzer, and her brother, Leroy May.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 18, 3:00 p.m., at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, with Tina Zimmerman, Chaplain of Chelsea Retirement Community, officiating. Visitation will be 1-3 p.m. at the funeral home the day of service. Expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Joseph Mercy Chelsea.


Betty M. (Mast) Denton Parmer
of Jackson, MI, formerly of Dexter

Was born April 25, 1929, in the second house ever built on Buena Vista St. in the Old West Side of Ann Arbor, daughter of Walter and May Anne (Kleinschmidt) Mast.

She attended Bach Elementary School until she, her mom, dad and big brother Glen moved out to Webster (Cottonwood Farm) when she was about 12. She then went to a one-room schoolhouse on the corner of Webster Church Rd. and Farrell Rd. and attended Webster Church, as has four generations of her family.

As she grew older, she headed into town to attend Dexter High School, where she was a cheerleader and Homecoming Queen.

She married Paul Denton and they had four children: Charlie, Paula, Laura and Tommy and raised them in the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti area. She was the quintessential homemaker. She sewed beautiful dresses (for the girls as well as their Barbies), made great Sunday dinners, baked delicious pies, cookies, and cakes (she was an expert cake decorator), threw wonderful birthday parties, and sometimes she even made homemade noodles.

She sang in the church choir and gave the neighbor ladies perms.The Denton home was the go-to spot for all the neighborhood kids.

She married Bob Parmer in 1978, and helped to raise his three daughters Deborah, Michele, and Wanda.They relocated to Upstate New York for a while, moved back to Michigan to live in Napoleon and eventually settled back home in Dexter.

Her last days were spent at Legacy Assisted Living in Jackson. She stayed very active socializing and joining in on all the available activities (bingo!) and she loved attending the weekly church services and singing along to all the good old hymns. Everyone who met her loved her and agrees that she always lit up the room with her smile and cheery disposition. She was a giver and not a taker … and a great mom and grandma.

Along with her four children and three stepchildren, she is survived by four grandchildren, Jeremy Paul Denton, Megan Mae Denton Krull, Kyler Thomas Denton-McHardy, and Paul Andrew Denton; and four step-grandchildren, Alexandra (Alex) Cosimeno, Randall (RJ) Cosimeno Jr, Jonah Ussery and Robert (Robbie) Allman.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert “Bob” Parmer on March 31, 2018.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2:00 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Rev. Lynn Finkbeiner officiating.The family will receive friends from noon-2 p.m. A private burial will be at Webster Church Cemetery in Dexter.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association or National Kidney Foundation.


Albert Floyd Monroe
of Battle Creek, formerly of Chelsea

In the early morning hours of January 4,2020, Albert Floyd Monroe, loving husband, father, grandpa and brother, passed away at Bronson Battle Creek Hospital at the age of 76.

Al was born on June 24, 1943, in Pontiac, MI to Floyd and Marion Monroe. He was employed at General Motors for 30 years, working in skilled trades as a pipe-fitter, and finished his career traveling internationally, serving on a Quality Control team. He loved listening to and singing Barbershop music. Al was a member of the Big Chief Barbershop Chorus of Waterford, MI, and sang for many years as a tenor with the Four Wheel Drive Barbershop Quartet.

He found great joy watching his daughters and grandchildren perform in musical and athletic events over the years. He was an avid sports fan. He loved watching all sports, but especially Red Wings hockey and U of M football.

On August 22, 1964, Al married his first love, Gari Foster of Lake Orion, MI. Along with his loving wife, Al will be greatly missed by his daughters Julie (Dennis) Deppner, Carrie (Chris) Phillips, grandchildren Kendrick Goodge, Taryn (Matthew) Giniat, Nicholas Deppner, Drew Deppner, Chloe Phillips, and sister Sharron Santala-Greenwald. He was preceded in death by daughter Shelley Goodge, grandson Evan Deppner and his siblings Suzanne Monroe and David Monroe.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, January 13, 11:00 am at Ottawa Park Cemetery in Clarkston, Michigan, with Rev. Rick Dake officiating. The family will receive friends at the cemetery from 10-11 am.

Expressions of sympathy may be provided to Lakeview Middle School in Battle Creek to assist with theater and musical productions or to the family. Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.

More News

Chelsea City Notice: Public Hearing for 511 Congdon Rezoning Request

March 25, 2024

April 4: Ballet Storytime at Chelsea District Library

March 25, 2024

Mary Lee Penney Named 2024 Woman of Chelsea State Bank Award Winner

March 24, 2024

Chelsea’s Jordan Braman Inducted into Phi Kappa Phi

March 24, 2024

April 18: Father Enzo Addari Retirement Celebration

March 24, 2024

March 31: Easter Events at Zion Lutheran Church

March 24, 2024

No City of Chelsea Meetings This Week

March 24, 2024

Chelsea Kiwanis Club Hears From the Chelsea Area Fire Authority

March 23, 2024

Great Showing for Chelsea Girls Track and Field at SEC Indoor Invitational

March 23, 2024

Chelsea Boys Track and Field Achieves Goals at SEC Indoor Invitational Meet

March 23, 2024

This Week’s Washtenaw County Road Commission Planned Road Projects

March 23, 2024

Washtenaw County Health Department Releases Annual Report

March 23, 2024

WCC Summer, Fall Registration Open

March 23, 2024

Chelsea School District March Students of the Month

March 22, 2024

Carley Grabarczyk Signs Letter of Intent to Purdue Northwest

March 22, 2024

Adult Learners Institute Announces April Schedule

March 22, 2024

Take a Journey Through Holy Week at Zion Lutheran Church

March 22, 2024

March 22: Final Lenten Fish Fry at St. Mary Church

March 22, 2024

Reminder: Spring Fling Craft Show from Fishville Farms at Chelsea Fairgrounds March 23

March 22, 2024

Recent Obituary: Thomas Joseph McGaw, Jr.

March 22, 2024

Jim Bristle and Loren Heller Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award Recipients

March 21, 2024