Pearls In Our Past   

 



 



       


Home
      
Postcard to You

Welcome Home

Business 

Cemeteries

Community Folk

Community Services      
   
Fire Department         

Churches

Famous Folk & Heroes      
                                  
Government

Historic Events
                                    
Historic Homes

Maps - Stats - Aerial Photos

Military-photos, letters &
     histories - Rev. War to present
               
Military Submit Information

Misc. History

Obituaries

Potawatomi

Scenic - Prints available

Schools-Hartford & Keeler
      • Athletics here
      • Band here
      • HHS graduate database here
      • Reunion News here

     
• Class Composites here
      • Misc. Class Photos here
      • Memorable Teachers-Staff here

Social
      • Hartford Floats
      • Hartford Royalty
      • Misc.

Tragedy

Transcripts 
   
§ Charles A. Spaulding
 A History of Hartford - 153 pg transcript now available on-line!
   
§ Katherine Minshall - Early History of Hartford and Lawrence 12 pgs.
   
§ Eli Fayette Ruggles Recollections of A Busy Life - circa 1904


Precious Pearls

Site Credits

Who are they?
 


Recollections and Jottings

Freq. Asked Questions

Email the Webmaster   
 

Search Our Site

Links of interest
                                                    

   
    
Enter your name and email   address below to receive occasional email newsletter
and notification of major changes to the site.
Use TAB key to advance to next box. ALL entries are required.
       * required fields

* 
    Your First AND Last name
                  (required)

*
      Current email address
   Show entire email address,
    including .com, .net, etc. 
                 (required)

*
  Your connection to Hartford?
            ex: grad, resident,
 former resident, summer visitor, etc.
                 (required)

               

If HHS student-grad, what class?

   
Last name during school at Hartford


   Register       Remove
      (Left-click your mouse on
   the appropriate box to select.)
               (required)


                     

 

Click on any menu icon or underlined link to find out more about a subject or individual.
Use the Search Our Site icon to find specific words or topics on the entire website.

      
       
             Obituar
ies in 2003
                                  Hartford Michigan

            Click here to return to the to Obituary Index

Please email the webmaster if you have obituaries of people who have lived in Hartford Michigan, or was active in the Hartford community, at some time during their lives. To find a specific obituary, use the  Search Our Site  feature located on the left menu of every page.  The Obituary section was started January 30, 2008 and current obituaries will be posted as they become available.  Obituaries are from the local newspapers, unless otherwise noted.  If you have an obituary notice of a former Hartford resident from a newspaper away from the Hartford area, please send it.  Past obituaries will be added as time permits. 

Many requests are made for obituary notices and this would be a good genealogical resource, as well as providing obits to extended family members who may not have an original.  Searching for obituaries from previous years (mainly prior to 2003) requires a good deal of time.  If you have found this to be a valuable resource and would like to be a sponsor toward keeping the obituaries page updated, send donations to History of Hartford Obituaries, Emma Sefcik, 59320 62nd St, Hartford MI  49057.  Since the History of Hartford website is a voluntary effort, your contribution is much appreciated.

Email the webmaster with any correction of errors that may have occurred in the original newspaper obit.

Click here for local library resources.
 

Aime Cunningham, of Hartford, died on Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2003, at her home. As to her wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no services.
     Aime was born on July 29, 1938, to Paul and Mary (Heinisch) Bundesman. After schooling at MSU, she worked as an administrative assistant to the director at the University of Chicago for eight years. She returned here and was the Hartford Public Librarian for 18 years. She retired from the Donald C. Cook Nuclear Plant in 1998. Aime was the
librarian there for 10 years.
     Aime was preceded in death by her parents. Mrs. C is survived by Robert, her loving husband of 39 years.
     The Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford is assisting the family.
Note:  Aime was a 1956 graduate of Hartford High School.

 
Waunita S. Woodruff, 96, of Dowagiac, died Saturday, Dec. 27, 2003, at Dowagiac Nursing Home.
     Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 2, at the First United Methodist Church, with the Rev. R. Paul Doherty officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30, at the Groner Funeral Home, Dowagiac. Burial will be in Bedford Cemetery, Calhoun County. Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church.
     Mrs. Woodruff was born Nov. 9, 1907 in Johnstown Township, Berry County. She was a 1925 graduate of Battle Creek High School. In 1927 she received a Life Certificate from Western State Normal College and in 1939 earned a bachelor of arts degree from Western State Teachers College. Mrs. Woodruff taught third grade in the Hartford School System from 1927 to 1946.  On Sept. 21, 1946, in Sister Lakes, she married Roe A. Woodruff and he preceded her in death on Jan. 10, 2000.
     Mrs. Woodruff was a member of the First United Methodist Church Martha Circle and Cass County Audubon Club. She enjoyed her family and friends, cooking, reading, traveling and her garden.
     She is survived by a daughter, Roberta Woodruff of Dowagiac
Note:  
Mrs. Nye's name in spelled Wauneta in each of the six HHS Yearbooks
 
Donna Ruth (Starbuck) Novak, 82, of Lawrence, Michigan passed away on Friday, November 28, 2003, at her home.
     Donna was born on November 6, 1921 and lived most of her life in the Hartford, Bangor and Lawrence area. She was formerly employed at the DuWel Corporation of Bangor and was active in the 4-H and various church activities at the Sacred Heart Catholic church in Bangor. Donna was also active in the Stevensville American Legion Post 568 Auxiliary for over 20 years. Donna also enjoyed reading all kinds of books and cooking for her children and grandchildren whom she loved.
     A funeral service to honor her memory will be held on Thursday, December 4, 2003 at 11 a.m. at the Leonard Funeral Home, Lawrence, Father Tom Seidel CSC will officiate. In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorials be made to the Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Bangor.
     Donna is survived by her children Bernard Novak of Lawrence, William Novak of Benton Harbor, Rose (Carl) Stokes of Benton Harbor and Peggy (James A.) Hester of Bangor. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and a sister, Dorothy (John D.) Kelley of Hartford.
     She was preceded in death by sons, Arthur W. Kelemen, and Robert Novak; her husband, Ben Novak; her mother, June Schmidt and a brother, William Starbuck.
 
Dorothy A. Dlouhy, 79, of Coloma, died Tuesday, November 25, 2003, at Community Hospital, Watervliet.
     Mrs. Dlouhy was born June 17, 1924, in Paw Paw to Naomi (Hambidge) and Howard Warren. She graduated from Hartford High School in 1941. Dorothy married her husband of 56 years, Raymond, on June 11, 1947. She was a bookkeeper for the family business, Dlouhy Electric, since 1951. When she wasn't helping out at the business, she loved spending time with her granddaughters. Dorothy loved to dance and enjoyed eating out.
Private funeral services will be held Saturday. Visitation was held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the Davidson Chapel, Florin Funeral Service, Coloma. Burial was in Coloma Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Coloma Ambulance Service or to the North Berrien Senior Center.
     Survivors are her husband, Raymond; one son, Brad (Nancy) Dlouhy of Watervliet; and two granddaughters, Lindsay Ann Dlouhy of Chicago and Nicole Marie Dlouhy of Kalamazoo.  She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Jean Scott.
 
Rev. Charles F. Davis, 62, of Hartford passed away on Sunday, November 9, 2003, at Cherokee Village Regional Health System in Arkansas, following a tragic car accident.
     Rev. Davis was born on March 1, 1941, the son of Sarah Rachel and the late Chester Davis. He was a lifelong resident of Hartford. He previously was the pastor of the Keeler General Baptist Church, for more than 20 years, and spent his life serving God and helping others. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
    Rev. Davis was pastor at Yore Avenue General Baptist Church, Benton Harbor. He also was a talented carpenter, better known as 'Charlie Fixit'.  He loved old cars and was a member of the Van Buren county Historical Society.
Rev. Davis is survived by his mother, Sarah Rachel; a daughter, Kathy Snyder; and two sons, Alan and James and their mother, Renee. Also surviving is Alice and her two children and six grandchildren, Brandon, Sarah, Taylor, Connor, Sidney and Lauren.
     The family will greet friends from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, November 13, at the Yore Avenue General Baptist Church in Benton Harbor, where the service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, November 14. Burial will follow in Keeler Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Yore General Baptist Church Building Fund. Arrangements are by Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford.

 
Mariam Alice Sydlik, 71, of Hartford passed away November 6, 2003, at Community Hospital, Watervliet.
She was born July 11, 1932, in Eau Claire, the daughter of Frank and Kathaleen Voit. She was a 1951 graduate of Benton Harbor High School.
    She leaves a husband, Joseph Sydlik, and daughter, Joye Rathgeb of Hartford; three sons -- Floyd Lewis of Harrison, Arkansas, Bob Lewis of Holland, Michigan, and James Lewis of Hartford; and several grandchildren. Also surviving, one brother, William Voit of South Bend, Ind.; and one sister, Frances Otte of Coloma.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother, Franklin "Tom" Voit.
    Cremation followed.
 
Darrell Neil Phillips, 71, of Hartford, passed away on Thursday, November 6, 2003, at his home.
     Darrell was born May 22, 1932, in Glouster, Ohio, the son of Loren and Ida (Jewell) Phillips. Darrell retired from farming in 1996 after many years of tending his farm. He was a former police officer for Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. Darrell loved tending to his garden along with being an avid fisherman and hunter. He served his country during the Korean Conflict in the U.S. Army and then in the National Guard.
     As to Darrell's wishes, cremation has taken place. The family is following Darrell's wishes by not having any public service. Military rites will be conducted at his home by VFW Post 6803, VFW Post 1137, American Legion Post 362 and Auxiliary. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the family.
     Darrell is survived by his wife, Charlotte, whom he married August 29, 1951; three sons, Rodney (Sandra) Phillips of Watervliet, Darrell (Theresa) Phillips of Watervliet and Randy (Sharon) Phillips of Hartford; a daughter, Brenda (Howard) Parker of Hartford; eight grandchildren; 16 great-grand-children; his mother, Ida Phillips of Glouster, Ohio; two brothers, David (Judy) Phillips of Ohio and Ralph (Marie) Phillips of North Carolina; three sisters, Sharma (Robert) Weedy, Sharon Fairclough and Gertrude (Jerry) Fraber, all of Ohio.
     Darrell was preceded in death by a grandson, Shane Phillips; his father, Loren Phillips; and a brother, Billy Joe Phillips.
 
Catherine Rose Bishop, 63, of Hartford, passed away on Thursday, November 6, 2003, at South Haven Community Hospital.
     Catherine was born May 19, 1940, in Thornapple Township, Michigan, the daughter of Leslie and Emily (Dzierska) Davis. She was a neighborhood mother to many. She loved to bake and decorate the home for the holidays.
     The family received friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, November 10, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. A service to honor her memory was held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, November 11, at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Salem Township Cemetery, Burnips, Michigan. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.
     Catherine is survived by her six children, Cecil (Aaron) Bishop of Holland, Randall (Debra) Bishop of Grand Junction, Faith Renee Bishop of Hartford, Lestie Bishop of Grand Junction, Shawn (Cynthia) Bishop of Burnips and Meggin Bishop of Hartford. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren; four great-grand-children; a brother, Michael (Suzzane) Davis of Stevensville; a brother, Leslie (Sandy) Paul Davis Jr. of Pablo, Colorado; a sister, Beverly (John) Meyer of Benton Harbor; and a brother, Marvin Davis of California.  Catherine was preceded in death by her parents.
 
Dorothy Correll Sears of Otsego MI passed away Oct 30, 2003. 
NOTE:  Dorothy is from the 1954 graduating class of Hartford High School, where she was the class Valedictorian and Treasurer.
 
Donald Pradon, 68, of Hartford passed away on Sunday, October 19, 2003, at Lakeland Hospital in St. Joseph
     Donald was born on May 24, 1935, in Chicago, the son of Sam and Katherine (Goida) Pradon. Both preceded him in passing.
     Donald retired from the Watervliet Paper Mill in 1984 after 30 years of employment. He was instrumental in forming the first workers' union at the mill. He was a life member of the Van Buren County Sportsman's Club; an avid hunter and fisherman and was especially a good cook.
     The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, October 23, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Friday, October 23, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Hartford, with Father Robert Flickinger as the celebrant. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford.
     Donald is survived by his wife, Ramona, whom he married on January 17, 1985; a son, Donald R. (Nikki) Pradon of Watervliet; two daughters, Violet (Gary) Jewell of Coloma and Rhonda (William) Brumley of Hartford; grandchildren, Stacy (Zeb) Deitrich, Clint Jewell Ramona Jewell, Jessica Brumley, Micahel Brumley, Jennifer Brumley, William Brumley, Katie Brumley and Lisa Sullivan; great-grandchildren, Brittany and Brooke. Also surviving is a brother, Paul (Donna) Pradon of Hartford; a sister, Mary Miller of Hartford; numerous nieces and nephews; many wonderful friends and especially his fishing buddies.
     Besides his parents, Donald was preceded in death by a brother, George Pradon; and sisters, Ann Pleyer, Josephine Rdzak and Eleanor Wilkens.
 
Margaret Taylor Puhrman, 81, of Hartford passed away Saturday, October 18, 2003, at Borgess Medical Center, Kalamazoo.
     Margaret was born on March 10, 1922, in Hamilton, Scotland, the daughter of Alexander and Margaret (Soutar) Brown. She formerly owned and operated with her late husband, the Puhrman Trailer Park in Hazel Crest, Ill. She also loved to travel.
     The family received friends from 2 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, October 21, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where the funeral service took place at 7 p.m. The Rev. Ron Hansen of the Hartford United Methodist Church officiated. As to her wishes, cremation followed the service.
     Margaret is survived by her son, Robert Puhrman of Hartford; and two brothers, Thomas Brown of Coal City, Ill., and David (Carol) Brown of Naperville, Illinois.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Marshall Puhrman on December 12, 1998; a daughter, Sandra Lynn Puhrman on January 21, 1988; and by her parents.
 
John Avon Babcock, 91, of Hartford passed away on Saturday, October 18, 2003, at his home.
     John was born on September 30, 1912, in Silver Creek Township, the son of Avon and Nina (Green) Babcock. John graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1928. He was a graduate of The International Business College in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He married the former Evelyn (Born) on March 4, 1944, in Chicago.
     John was a farmer in Keeler for 65 years. He was president of the State Soil Conservation Association, president of the State Horticultural Society and received several awards for his accomplishments in agriculture. John was a member of the Keeler United Methodist Church for more than 60 years. He was a lay leader for the West Michigan Conference of the United Methodist Church and was very involved in the work of the church both locally and conference wide.
     John was also involved in the community, having served as president of the Hartford Public School Board, a member of the Van Buren State Bank Board and the military draft board.
     John is survived by his wife of 59 years, Evelyn; two daughters, Nancy (David) Parsons of Grand Haven and Nina (Michael) Jason of Denver; four grandchildren, Erik and Emily Parsons, Heather (Darren) Bennett and Kristin (Kevin) Morton; three step-grandsons, Robert, Michael and Nicholas Jason; five great-grandchildren, Roy, Shailey and Caleb Bennett, Ryann and Jon Morton.  John was preceded in death by his parents; and his great-grand-daughter, Lillian.
     John has donated his body to science at the University of Michigan. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Keeler United Methodist Church or to South Haven Area Hospice.
Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford is serving the family.
 
Pearl A. Kerr, 93, of Medinah, Illinois passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2003, at Glen Oaks Hospital in Glendale Heights, Illinois.
     Pearl was born on January 1, 1910, in Chicago, the daughter of Orrie and Elizabeth (Bollback) Graff. Both preceded her in passing.
     Pearl was formerly employed at Auto Specialties of Hartford for 25 years.  She was a member of the Church of Christ in Bangor.
     The family received friends from noon until 1 p.m. on Monday, October 20, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where the service was held at 1 p.m. Pastor Tim Sipes of the Church of Christ of Bangor officiated. Burial was in North Shore Memory Gardens, Hagar Shores.
     Pearl is survived by her daughter, Betty (Jess) Ballard of Medinah; her son, James (Joyce) Kerr of Lawrence; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Roy, on December 24, 1992, and by a brother, Howard.

 
Rev. James W. Kelley, 73, of Hartford, died October 15, 2003 at Borgess Medical Center, Kalamazoo.
     Rev. Kelley was born November 1, 1929 in Kenneth, Missouri, to Bert and Ollie Kelley. James was a minister for the Church of God for 52 years, retiring in 1995. Rev. Kelley pastored many churches. The last Church he served before retirement was in Leachville, Arkansas.
     Visitation was held from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home, South Haven. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Hartford Church of God with Pastor Lonnie Truelove officiating. Burial is in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home, South Haven.
     He is survived by his spouse, Rosita Kelley; daughters -- Anita (Rev. Don) Turner of Grand Haven, and Shirley (James) Brooks of Watervliet; son, Cecil (Pam) Kelley of Pullman; sisters, Alma Williams of Jonesboro, Arkansas, Willie Bea Jones of Dyess, Arkansas, and Marie Shaver of Elyria, Ohio.
     He was preceded in death by his sons; James Wayne Kelley and Rondall Kelley; a granddaughter, Angela Kelley; three brothers; and one sister.
 
Audelia Saavedre, 62, of Hartford passed away on Tuesday, October 14, 2003, at Borgess Medical Center.
Audelia was born on April 10, 1941, in St. Rosa GRO, Mexico, the daughter of Jose and Fabiana (Montoya) Saavedra.
     The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, October 17, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with the service being held at 1 p.m. Pastor Arturo Acosta of the First Hispanic Midway Baptist Church of Hartford will officiate. Burial will follow in Keeler Cemetery.
     Audelia is survived by her husband, Alfredo Soto; children-daughter, Irma (Romaldo) Ortiz of Decatur; son, Melvin (Rosa) Ortego of Mexico City; son, Martin (Sandra) Soto; son, Alfredo (Elsa) Soto; son, Arturo (Juana) Soto; son, Guadalupe (Maria) Soto; daughter, Matilde (Raymundo) Ordonez; son, Jose R. (Maria) Soto; and son, Jose F. Soto, all of Keeler. She is also survived by 25 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; her mother; seven sisters and four brothers.  Audelia was preceded in death by a daughter, Mercedes Soto; her father and a brother, Raul Saavedre.
 
Norma L. Rice, 90, of Plymouth, Michigan, formerly of Sun City, Arizona, passed away on Tuesday, October 14, 2003, at St. Mary's Hospital in Livonia, Michigan.
    Norma was born on May 1, 1913, in Hartford, the daughter of Walter H. and Lena B. (McDowall) Rice. She graduated from Hartford High School and attended South Bend College of Commerce.  Norma worked as a legal secretary with Pacific Gas and Electric in San Francisco, retiring in 1978 and relocating to Sun City, Arizona.
     As to her wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service was held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 18, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. Pastor Timothy Nyhuis of Hartford Federated Church officiated. Internment was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford.
     Norma is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; and a sister-in-law, Mrs. LaVern (Mary) Rice of Paw Paw.  Norma was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Lena Rice; brothers, Glen and LaVern Rice; and a sister, Neva Rice Wagner.
Note: Norma was a 1930 graduate of Hartford High School.
 
Arden Carlyle Winkel -  Arden died Sunday, October 12, 2003, at Countryside Nursing Centre, South Haven.
     Arden's life began June 1, 1918, in Bangor. He spent his childhood growing up in Southwest Michigan and graduated from Eau Claire High School. On November 7, 1943, Arden married Luella Margaret Wendzel. Arden made his living being a fruit farmer. He was a lifelong member of Salem Lutheran Church in Coloma and a life member of the Michigan State Horticultural Society.
     In Arden's spare time he was an avid woodworker and enjoyed bee keeping and gardening. Arden's greatest love was spending time with his family which includes; his wife, Luella; three sons, Rodney (Jeanette) of Watervliet, Barry (Lyn) of South Haven and Kevin (Roxanne) of Hartford; a daughter, Ardene (Steve Martin) of Mattawan; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; a brother, Willard (Laura) Winkel of Hartford; and many nieces and nephews.
   
Friends visited with Arden's family from 4:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, October 15, at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet. Funeral Services were held at 11 a.m. Thursday, October 16, at Salem Lutheran Church, Coloma, with Arden's nephew, Pastor Linden Wendzel, officiating. Burial followed in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford.
Memorials may be made to the Lutheran Child and Family Services or Salem Lutheran Church.
 
Carol Ann Reese, 57, of Hartford passed away on Tuesday, October 7, 2003, at her home.
     Carol was born on December 16, 1945, in St. Joseph, the daughter of Frank and Thelma (Struble) Moneau; both preceded her in passing.
     As to Carol's wishes cremation has taken place and the family gathered together from 6 to 7 p.m. on Monday October 13, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, followed by a celebration of her life at 7 p.m.
     Carol is survived by her six children, Theresa Crest of Covert, Tina Newton of Hartford, Duane Newton of Kentucky, Debbie Newton of Mississippi, Kevin Wilson of Benton Harbor and Scott Gardiner of Niles. She is also survived by 15 grandchildren; a sister, Kathy Norwood of Arizona; and a special friend, Bob Elmore of Hartford.
 
Betty Jean Stowell, 81, of Westland, Michigan, formerly of Hartford, passed away Monday, evening, October 6, 2003, in St. Mary's Hospital, Livonia, Michigan.
     Betty was born March 22, 1922, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She was the daughter of LeRoy and Bessie (Rathbun) Osborn. Betty graduated from Hartford High School in 1939. She married Eldon D. Stowell on September 24, 1946. Betty loved living on Paw Paw Lake, golfing and painting.
A private service was held.  She is survived by her son David; daughter-in-law, Adrienne; three grandsons, Travis, Brian and Jeff; and a great grandson, Hayden.
   Betty's husband, Eldon, preceded her in death on September 25, 2000.

 
William K. Shattuck, 74, of Hartford died Monday, October 6, 2003, at Gilead Elder Care in St. Joseph from complications of Huntington's disease.
     Mr. Shattuck was born April 11, 1929, in South Haven to Velda (Farrer) and Karl Shattuck, who preceded him in death.
     He was a member of the Covert Congregational Church. Bill was a Covert volunteer fireman for a number of years and then went full time in 1978 as fireman and EMT, retiring in 1994.
     There will be a memorial service at a later date. Cremation has taken place. Interment of cremains will be in Covert Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Huntington's Disease Society of America, Mid-Michigan Chapter, 601 N. Waverly Road, Lansing, Michigan 48917, or to Gilead Elder Care 4790 Scottdale Road, St. Joseph. Davidson Chapel, Florin Funeral Service, Coloma, is serving the family
     He is survived by his wife, Jewel, whom he married in 1974; stepson, David Fritz of Pearland, Texas; stepdaughter, Deborah (Tom) Deja of Omaha, Nebraska; three step grandchildren; and a sister, Marylea (Chester) Benedix of Benton Harbor.
 
Robert J. Sibr Sr., 58, died at his home in Oak Forest, Illinois, on September 29, 2003.
     A Mass in his memory was said on Sunday, October 12, 2003 at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Hartford. Cremation has taken place. Memorial donations may be made to the Cancer Support Center, 2028 Elm Road, Homewood, Illinois 60430.
     Bob was born on August 15, 1945 to the late Larry and Marie Sibr. He spent his childhood summers on Van Auken Lake in Hartford.
     Bob is survived by his wife, Sharon (Gatz); his sons, Robert (Jessica) Sibr, Jr., Andrew Sibr, and Edward Sibr; daughter, Christa (Kevin) Hogan; and Papa to Ailee and Joshua; brother to Lawrence (Lisa) Sibr, Rose Brown, Cathy (Art) Morsaw, Barbara Prosser, Judy (Edward) Santillan, and Patricia (Jon) Kuchy; and fond uncle of many nieces and nephews.

 
Thomas Richard Treder, 66, of Hartford passed away on Sunday, September 28, 2003, at Lakeland Hospital, St. Joseph.
     Thomas was born on September 6, 1937, in Grand Rapids, the son of John and Virginia (Sherman) Engler, both of whom preceded him in passing.
     Thomas formerly was employed at Industrial Rubber and retired from DuWel of Hartford, after many years of service.
     The family received friends from 10 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, October 1, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where the funeral service followed at 11 a.m. Pastor Lonnie Truelove Sr. of Hartford Church of God, of which Thomas was a member, officiated. Interment is in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford.
     Thomas is survived by his wife, Bethel, whom he married on March 26, 1983; a son, Timothy (Mendy) Treder of Coloma; daughter, Tamara (Ozzie) Huff of Watervliet; son, Randall W. (Kelly) Springer of Coloma; son, Tommy E. Springer of Coloma; and son, Gary M. Springer of Watervliet. Also surviving are his seven grandchildren, Nicholas Benton, Karissa Treder, Matthew Treder, Hannah Springer, Emma Springer, Ethan Springer and Aidan Springer.

 
Oliver "Nin" Furlan, 87, of Stevensville, died September 26, at Fair Oaks Nursing Home, South Beloit, Illinois.
     Oliver was born October 3, 1915, in Chicago, to Joseph and Emma (Voltarel) Furlan. He married Mildred Canadeo on April 26, 1941, in Chicago. He was the former owner of Furlan Brothers Car Dealership in Benton Harbor. Oliver was a member of St. John's Catholic Church and was a 3rd and 4th degree in the Knights of Columbus.
     Mass of the Resurrection was celebrated at 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, October 1, at St. John's Catholic Church, Benton Harbor, with Reverend William J. Jacobs, Jr. as celebrant. Inurnment is in North Shore Memory Gardens, Hagar Shores. Memorials may be made to St. John's Catholic Church, or Hospice at Home.
     Survivors include: brothers -- William Furlan of Watervliet, and Arthur "Tootie" Furlan, Sr. of Riverside, California; and many nieces and nephews.  Oliver was preceded in death by his wife, Mildred; his parents; two sisters, Ida Kozelink and Marcella Cafferata, and a brother, Charles Furlan.
 

Rodney L. Lynch Sr., 92 of Hartford passed away on Thursday, September 4, 2003, at Countryside Nursing Centre, South Haven.
     Rodney was born March 28, 1911 in Hartford Township the son of Walter and Carrie (Manchester) Lynch. Rodney was a member of the Van Buren Historical Society, the Kalamazoo Rock and Gem Club and was a collector of many gems and rocks.
     Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. on Monday September 8, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. Pastor Timothy Nyhuis of Hartford Federated Church officiated. Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the donor's choice.
     Rodney is survived by a son, Rodney (Ellen) Lynch Jr. of Coloma; two grandchildren - Rodney Lynch of Coloma and Laurie (Michael) Hurst of Watervliet; two great-grandsons: Zachary Bambrick and Jordan Hurst, both of Watervliet; nephew Wade Lynch of Watervliet, along with sisters-in-laws, nieces and nephews.
     Rodney was preceded in death by his wife, Mildred; his parents, and a brother, Milford.
Note:  Rodney worked for the Calvin Funeral Home for a number of years prior to his death and was considered one of Hartford's great historians.
 

Lawrence E. "Sid" Adams, age 94, of Hartford, passed away Sunday, August 3, 2003, at Country Nursing Centre, South Haven.
     Sid was born December 13, 1908, in Toquin, the son of Seymour and Jane (Stewart) Adams at the family homestead, where he had lived all of his life. On December 21, 1934, he married Eileen Jane Waters of Chicago, in South Bend, Indiana. She preceded him in death on September 30, 1958. Sid worked in construction and was a fruit farmer.
     The family met with friends on Wednesday at the Bangor Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home where funeral services were held with the Reverends Charles and Sandra McNary officiating. The family suggests memorials to American Cancer Society.
     Surviving are three sons:  Thomas Adams, William Adams both of Hartford, and Richard (Emma) Adams of Muldrow, Oklahoma, 12 grandchildren; 14 great-grand-children; and one great-great-grandchild.
Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by a grandson, Michael Adams; two brothers, Wayne and Carl Adams; three sisters, Eleanor Abbott, Alma Weberg and Bea Lovell; and a special friend, Alberta Darling.

 
Veronica "Bonnie" Snodgrass, 71, of Hartford passed away on Sunday, August 3, 2003, at her home.
     Bonnie was born March 8, 1932, in Allegan, the daughter of Chester and Luella (VanRiper) Swisher, both of whom preceded her in passing. She married Eugene Snodgrass on March 13, 1950, and he survives.
     She owned and operated Bonnie's Stuff and Sew Upholstery Shop for many years in Hartford. Bonnie was a surrogate mother and friend to many.
     The family greeted friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, August 6, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. A service to honor her memory was held at 2 p.m. Thursday, August 7, at the funeral home. The Rev. Charles Davis of the First General Baptist Church of Benton Harbor officiated. Burial followed in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford.
     Besides her husband of 53 years, Eugene, Bonnie is survived by two daughters -- Connie (Frank) Yerington and Michelle (Dave) Rittase; three sons -- Eugene Snodgrass Jr., Ron (Jean) Snodgrass and Larry (Deborah) Snodgrass, all of Hartford. Also surviving are 12 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; six sisters -- Opal, Josephine, Ethlyn, LuBelle, Audrey and Deanna; and three brothers, Chester, Arthur and Jerry.  Besides her parents, Bonnie was preceded in death by three sisters and five brothers.

 
Robert James O'Leary, 77, died July 13 in a local Hospital.
     Robert was born February 27, 1926 in Portsmouth, N.H. to Arthur and Maimie O'Leary. He married Muriel Kennedy White on July 1, 1950 and then moved back to New England. He later returned to Michigan where he continued teaching and coaching at Sand Lake and Hartford.
     Friends visited with the family on Thursday at the Rupert, Durham, Marshall & Gren Funeral Home, Plainwell Chapel. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, July 19, at 11 a.m. at St. Margaret's Catholic Church in Otsego, with Reverend Father Donald Klingler officiating.
     Memorial contributions may be mad to The Jack O'Leary Scholarship Fund or the Plainwell Community Schools Swimming Program. Share a memory with the family at www.lifestorynet.com.
     He is survived by his children; Colleen (Alex) Mills, Wichita Falls, TX; Dennis (Charmane) OLeary, Farmersville, TX; Maureen (Donald) Morin, Houghton, MI; Mary Knecht (Jim), Richland, MI; Kevin (Debbie) O'Leary, Galesburg, MI; seven grandchildren; sisters-in-law; Catherine O'Leary, Anna O'Leary and many beloved nieces and nephews, and his dearest life-long family friend, Kay Manning.
     Robert was preceded in death by his wife, Muriel, his brothers, Joe and Jack.

 
Henry Gustov Zass, 75, of Hartford passed away on Saturday, July 12, 2003, at South Haven Healthcare Centre.
     Henry was born Nov. 11, 1927, in Coloma, the son of Adolph and Pauline (Oxner) Zass, both of whom preceded him in passing.
     Henry retired from Menasha Corporation after 26 years of service. He was a member of Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hartford, where he was a trustee. He also was a United States Army veteran.
     The family greeted friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 15, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. A service to honor his memory was held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 16, at Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church, Hartford. The Rev. John Weaver-Hudson will officiate. Burial followed in Hill Cemetery, Lawrence. Memorials may be made to Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church Building Fund.
     Henry is survived by a brother, Albert R. Zass of Hartford; sister, Eleanor H. Rhodes of Lawrence; nephew, Michael (Julienne) Rhodes of Mattawan; and cousins in Michigan and Colorado.

 
Joanna "Jo" Smith, 89, of Hartford, died Tuesday, July 8, 2003, at Countryside Nursing Centre, South Haven.
Joanna was born April 22, 1914, in south Boardman, Mich., the daughter of Everett and Minnie (Gildea) Vliek, both of whom precede her in passing.
     Joanna was the cafeteria supervisor for the Hartford Public School for 28 years. She was a member of the Hartford United Methodist Church and the Methodist Church W.S.C.S.
     Also preceding her in death were her husband Durwood on Dec. 18, 1986; a sister, Jennie; and brothers- Willis, Lawrence, John, Edward Donald and Kenneth.  Joanna is survived by her children Gary (Judy) Smith of Portage, Mich., Shirley (William) Jackson and John (Janice) Smith both of Hartford; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; a sister, Cora (Kenneth) Collins of Cassopolis, and a brother, Gordon (Barbara) Vliek of Paw Paw.
     The family will great friend from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 10, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where services will be held at 2 p.m. Fri-day, July 11. The Rev. Virginia Heller of Keller United Methodist Church will officiate. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Memorials may be made to the Old Rugged Cross Church, Niles, The Hartford United Methodist Church of the American Diabetes Association.

 
James Emil Remus, 85, of Merced, Calif., formerly of Hartford and Lawrence, passed away Sunday, July 6, 2003, in Merced.
     James was born Jan. 1, 1918, in Michigan, the son of Paul and Bessie (Goodrich) Remus, both of whom precede him in passing.
     James loved farming and being outdoors. James was a former director for the Youth of Christ of Southwestern Michigan. He was a lay minister and Sunday school teacher for the Church of God in numerous locations and served the church in many other capacities. He attended the Warner Camp in Grand Junction for over 70 years.
     After services in Merced, James will be brought back to Michigan where visitation was held from 2 to 7 p.m. Sunday, July 13, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. A celebration of his life was held on Monday, July 14, at the funeral home. The Rev. Larry Avery will officiate. Interment will follow in Grand Junction Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the donor's choice.
    James is survived by his wife of 26 years, Thelma Remus of Merced; their children - Virginia Johnson of Leverne, Calif., Joyce Lander of Kalamazoo, Carol (Larry) Avery of Anderson, Ind., Don (Nancy) Remus of Stow, Ohio, Roger (Sharon) Fragulia of Merced, Judith (Harry) Dias of Atwater, Calif., and Nancy Fragulia of Merced; 14 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
     Besides his parents, James was preceded in death by two brothers - Robert and Gordon.

 
Esther I. Hathaway, 70, of Hartford, passed away Thursday, June 26, 2003, at Borgess Medical Center, Kalamazoo.
Esther was born July 15, 1932, in South Bend, the daughter of Frank and June (Millbrath) Tillotson, both of whom precede her in passing.
     Esther was a graduate of Watervliet High School. She loved flowers of all kinds and especially enjoyed spending time with her family. Esther retired from Goldblatt's in 1971.
     The family greeted friends from 4 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, June 29 at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, and then again from 10 a.m. till the time of the service at 11 a.m. on Monday, June 30 at the funeral home. Burial was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford.
     Esther is survived by her son, Paul D. Hathaway Jr. of Hartford; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Esther was preceded in death by her husband, Paul D. Hathaway Sr. on September 22, 2000; and a sister, Bonnie Hirsch.

 
Jean Rademacher Veide - A Memorial Mass was celebrated at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 17, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 63559 60th Avenue, Hartford, for Jean Rademacher Veide, 56, of Westlake, Ohio, formerly of Hartford, who died May 10, 2003.
Note:  Jean was a 1965 Hartford High School graduate.

 
Leroy Walter Sherman, 75, of Hartford, passed away Friday, June 13, 2003, at Lakeland Hospital in St. Joseph.
     Leroy was born February 22, 1928, in Blue Island, Ill., the son of Roy and Elizabeth (Carter) Sherman.
He moved to Hartford at the age of 14. Leroy was a 1946 graduate of Hartford High School and a graduate of Lake Michigan College in 1990.
     He married Dona Chidester on November 29, 1947, and together they owned Dona Sherman Realty.
     A memorial service to honor his memory was held at 4 p.m. Tuesday, June 17 at the Hartford United Methodist Church. The Rev. Ron Hansen officiated. Interment was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford.

 
Loren Edward Alsup Jr., 39, of Hartford, passed away suddenly Thursday, June 12, 2003, at his home.
Loren was born February 18, 1964, in Berrien Springs, the son of Loren and Georgiana (Morseau) Alsup Sr.
     He was a member of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians and loved to hunt, fish and especially spend time with his family and friends.
    The family greeted friends from at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford with traditional Native American service being held at the funeral home. Burial followed in Sacred Heart of Mary Cemetery, Silver Creek Township.
Loren is survived by his children -- Todd Miller of Hartford, Dakota Alsup, Alyssa Alsup and Alexis Alsup, all of Benton Harbor; step-children -- Chasity Ezell and Rodney Miller, both of Benton Harbor; his parents; sisters -- Theresa Alsup and Missy Furgeson-Sirrine, both of Hartford, and Susan Keller of Benton Harbor; and a brother, Bart Alsup of Hartford.
 
Vernon Eugene Austin Sr., 69, of Hartford passed away on Monday, June 9, 2003, at Community Hospital, Watervliet.
     Vernon was born on Oct. 21, 1933, in Grand Rapids, the son of Niegel and Nellie (Steele) Austin. He owned and operated his own welding shop in Hartford for many years. Vernon served his country in the United States Navy.
In following his wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no services.
     Vernon is survived by his children - daughter, Michelle Austin of Hartford; son, Arvid Austin of Brandon, Fla.; daughter, Lisa Austin of Tuscumbia, Ala.; daughter, Valerie (Ron) Owen of Bourbonnais, Ill.; son, Vernon (Julie) Austin Jr. of Hartford; son, Brad Austin of Lawrence; son, Rick Austin of Hartford; daughter, Nellie (Brian) Wilcox of Gobles; son, Niegel Austin of Kalamazoo; and daughter, Angela Austin of South Haven. He is also survived by numerous grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a brother, Pete (Mary) Austin of Hartford.
Vernon was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Joanne; and a brother
 
Jewel Lee Tate-Krieger, 84, of Hartford passed away on Monday, June 9, 2003, at Community Hospital, Watervliet.
Jewel was born on Aug. 14, 1918, in Ben, Ark., the daughter of Floyd and Arkie (Cannon) Davis. She was known to many as "Jewelie Pearl". 
     She retired from Auto Specialties after 18 years of service. With the passing of her husband at an early age she became to Billy, her son, not only a mother but also a father and his best friend.
     The family greeted friends on Thursday, June 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service to honor her memory was held at 2 p.m. on Friday, June 13, at the funeral home. The Rev. Charles Davis of the First Baptist Church of Benton Harbor officiated. Burial followed in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Anyone wishing to make a memorial contribution may do so to the Keeler General Baptist Church.
     Jewel is survived by her son, Billy (Shirley) Tate of Covert; numerous grandchildren and great-grand-children; a brother, James Hester of Bangor; an aunt, Leona Liles of Watervliet; and special friend, Sue Hopson of Hartford.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Don Tate; two sons, James Tate and Tom Tate; a daughter, Barbara Giles; three grandsons, Donnie Tate, Pat Tate and Steven Tate; and her parents.
 
DeLisle Fredrick "Whitey" Melville, 89, of Hartford passed away Tuesday, May 27, 2003, at Blodgett Memorial Medical Center, Grand Rapids.
     DeLisle was born on Sept. 23, 1913, in Keeler Township, the son of Fred and Bertha (Flowers) Melville. He graduated from Western Michigan University and the Art Institute of Chicago. He holds a teaching degree with a master's in art. DeLisle retired from Auto Specialties after many years of service.
     The family will greet friends from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 31, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. Pastor Timothy Nyhuis of Hartford Federated Church will officiate. Burial will follow in Hamilton Cemetery, Hamilton Township, where Masonic Rites will be conducted by the Henry Chamberlain Lodge 308 of which he was a member. The family requests memorials be made to the Henry Chamberlain Lodge.
     DeLisle is survived by his children, daughters -- Connie (Carl) Zirk of Grand Rapids and Bonney (Douglas) Meachum of Hartford; sons -- Fredrick (Sandra) Melville of Middleville and Thomas (Nancy) Melville of Keeler; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; brothers, Leslie "Stub" (Lucille) Melville and William John (Doris) Melville, both of Marcellus.
     DeLisle was preceded in death by his first wife, Eleanor, on Sept. 12, 1974; his second wife, Florine, on Jan. 12, 1991; and his parents.
 
Dale R. Jones, 71, of Coloma, formerly of Hartford, passed away on Tuesday, May 6, 2003, at his home.
     Dale was born on March 7, 1932, in Plankington, S.D., the son of John and Frances (Comp) Jones, both of whom preceded him in death.
     Dale married his first wife, Joanne, on Oct. 23, 1954. Joanne passed away suddenly on July 5, 1994. Dale retired from Shepherd Products in February of 1996. He also worked faithfully for the Veterans Administration until the time of his death.
     The family will greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, May 9, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where a funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, with the Rev. Ron Hansen of Hartford United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, where military rites will be conducted by the VFW Post 1137, VFW Post 6803, American Legion Post 362 and its Auxiliary. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to South Haven Area Hospice or to the American Cancer Society Relay for Life, c/o Hartford High School.
     Dale is survived by his wife, Cynthia, whom he married on Sept. 7, 1996; his four children - Darcel (Tim) Hildebrand of Hartford, Barry Jones of Dowagiac, Dorinda (Ross) Safro of St. Petersburg, Fla., and Decima (Richard Jr.) Fuller of Hartford; his five grandchildren - Andrew Scheid, Sarah and Tyler Fuller, Steven and Amanda Jones; and a sister, Sharon Kabel of Benton Harbor.
Note:  Dale is a 1950 Hartford High School graduate.

 
Lillian A. Rice, 83, of Hartford, died Saturday, April 5, 2003, at LakeView Community Hospital, Paw Paw.
Visitation was held from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, April 7, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where a celebration of her life was held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, with Mark Manning and Pastor Kenneth Manning officiating. Burial followed in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford.
     Lillian was born August 31, 1919, in Tuckerman, Arkansas, the daughter of James and Nellie (Rodgers) Robbins. She was a member of Hartford Church of God, loved to sew, and just liked to be social with everyone.
     Survivors include: her husband, Lee Roy Rice; her daughter, Shirlene (Kenneth) Manning of Hartford; one son, Samuel (Barbara) Hill of Salem, Missouri; grandchildren Rebecca (Jack) Traughber, Michael (Terri) Manning, Mark (Cheryl) Manning, David (Angela) Hill, Jeff (Denise) Hill, and Chrystal Hill; 12 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by: her parents, James and Nellie Robbins; her first husband, Milton Hill; one daughter, Peggy Ann Hill; a great-granddaughter, Kendra Micheal; and a brother, Lonnie Robbins.

 
Mary (Martin) Stockwell, 99, of Hartford, died Wednesday, March 19, 2003, at Community Hospital in Watervliet.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service was held at 1 p.m. on Monday, April 14, at Hartford Federated Church, with Pastor Timothy Nyhuis officiating. Burial of cremains was in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, was in charge of the arrangements. Memorials may be made to Hartford Federated Church or to the donor?s choice.
     Mrs. Stockwell was born May 9, 1903, to William and Nellie (Crawford) Martin, in Lawrence Township. She graduated from Hartford High School in 1921 and attended Western Michigan Teachers College (now Western Michigan University) in Kalamazoo. She taught school until her marriage in 1926 to Rollo E. Stockwell. They farmed in the Hartford area. She was a member of Hartford Federated Church and a charter and life member of Van Buren County Historical Society.
     Survivors include: a nephew, David Milner of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas; his sons, Scott and Steven, and his daughter, Kelly Ewers; several of her husband's nieces and nephews, especially dear niece Jane Palmer McGuire; a longtime friend, Kathleen Stockwell; and a loving church family and good neighbors. She was preceded in death by: her parents; a sister, Dorothy Milner; a nephew, Edward Stoddard Jr.; and her husband, Rollo, on September 6, 1982.
 
Patricia Root, formerly of Hartford, died Sunday, March 9, 2003, at her Lakeland, Florida, home after a long fight with leukemia and cancer.
     Services were held Wednesday afternoon, March 12, at the family residence. Memorial donations may be made to: National Cancer Society, c/o Judy Root, 23998 Shurte St., Cassopolis, MI 49031.
     Born in Kurtz, Indiana, on October 30, 1934, she came to Hartford in 1981, where she wed Richard "Dick" Root and reared their five children. For a number of years, she was a cashier for Harding's Market in Hartford before moving to Lakeland. She later retired from Publix, where she was a cashier, office clerk and demo lady.
     Survivors include: her husband, Dick Root of Wedgewood Health Care Center, Lakeland; sons- - Randall Otte of Globe, Arizona, Paul Root of Sparta, Tennessee, and Major Richard D. Root in Fort Hood, Texas (now stationed in Iraq); daughters-- Cheryl (Otte) Ferrier of Dowagiac and Debra (Root) Hupp of Guthrie, Oklahoma; sisters--Rose Prutsman of Winter Haven, Florida, Faye Ludeman of Seymour, Indiana, and Evelyn Stogdill of Lakeland; 17 grand-children; four great-grandchildren; many area friends and associates; and the families of Donald and Carol Woodward, Mrs. Thomas (Verda) Wallace, Chris (Weber) Roush, Charles Hadley and David Hadley, all of Hartford, Mrs. Donald (Cecilia) Root of Paw Paw, and Jerry and Judy Root of Cassopolis. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Robert W. Otte.

 
Kenny Lee Reed Jr., 43, of Vacaville, California, formerly of Hartford, Michigan, died Sunday, March 2, 2003, in Fairfield, California, following a long illness.
     Cremation has taken place. A private memorial service will be held in Watervliet at a later date for the family.
Mr. Reed was born April 4, 1959, in Shelby, Michigan. He resided in Hartford and then moved to Chicago, Illinois. He had lived in Vacaville for the last 13 years.
     He had been a furniture salesman for 15 years. After leaving sales, he helped his parents with their furniture business in Fairfield for many years. He enjoyed sports, especially baseball. His favorite pastime was fantasy baseball or going to a baseball game. He loved animals and especially enjoyed the time he spent with his family and friends.
     Survivors include: his parents, Ken and Judy Reed of Vacaville; three brothers--Kevin (Sandi) Reed of Hartford, Scott (Tammy Reeves) Reed of Coloma, and Steven Reed of Fairfield; a nephew, Ryan Reed of Hartford; two nieces and one nephew--Meghan, Kristin and David Reed of Lawrence; his grand-mother, Mimi of Muskegon; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
 
Edward John Szewczyk, 76, died January 9, 2003, at his home in Orlando, Florida, from congestive heart failure.
Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford.
     Mr. Szewczyk was born Jan. 25, 1926. He was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran of World War II, life member of American Legion Post 93 of Hartford, Council member and volunteer fireman in Hartford, and retired after 43 years from Ausco Manufacturing Company.
     Survivors include: his wife, Jacqueline L. Szewczyk; daughters--Susan A. (Don) Jobe of Kalamazoo, Karen K. (Timothy) Henselin of Orlando, and Jill L. (Steven) Wilkens of Watervliet; sons--John E. (Mary Sue) Szewczyk of Macomb, Michigan, Steven A (Kelly) Szewczyk of Orlando, and Kevin M. (Karen) Szewczyk of Orlando; 14 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and two sisters--Loretta Poker of Sister Lakes and MaryAnn Bullard of Grand Blanc, Michigan. He was preceded in death by: his mother, Victoria Szewczyk; his father, Frank Szewczyk; and his brother, Chester Szewczyk.
 
Return to top

Information for this web site was gathered from personal interviews, newspaper articles, scrapbooks, personal photo albums, and other documented materials - many available to the public at the Hartford Public Library or Van Buren County Historical Museum.  Please report any typographical errors, updated information, or incorrectly stated information to the webmaster for correction.  Reprinting for personal and instructional purposes is permitted, however, unauthorized commercial reprinting of this information or unauthorized linking to photos-pictures on this site is strictly prohibited without written permission from the webmaster. 



Pass the word on to your friends and family about this site
It's easy...right click on this icon,
COPY
and PASTE it into an email to them.

Click on the icon to go directly to the website.
HartfordHistory Icon - Hartford MI

Pearls In Our Past - Hartford Michigan
© 
A Pictorial History of Hartford, Michigan
Emma Thornburg Sefcik,
Competent Secretarial Service
Copyright © 2000 - All rights reserved.


Revised: May 09, 2008