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Obituaries in 2004
Hartford Michigan |
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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.
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left menu of every page. The Obituary section was started January 30,
2008 and current obituaries will be posted as they become available.
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Catherine R. Smith,
94, of
Hartford died Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2004, at South Haven
Healthcare.
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Friday at
Davidson Chapel, Florin Funeral Service, Coloma, where visitation
began one hour prior to the service. Burial followed in Fairview
Cemetery, Watervliet.
Mrs. Smith was born July 8, 1910, in Miami, FL, to Carl
and Catherine (O'Niel) Guttchen. She lived most of her life in that
area. She loved to go flying in her friend's airplane. They
were in a club called the "Grasshoppers" and flew somewhere twice a
month. She moved here in 1992 to live with her daughter.
Survivors include: her two daughters -- Lois Vanette
and JoAnn (Harry) Berg; one granddaughter, April Berg; and a
great-granddaughter, Angela, all of
Hartford.
She was preceded in death by her parents and husband,
Hansel Smith.
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Sandra Joann Drake Engle
- BAINBRIDGE TOWNSHIP -- Sandra Joann Drake Engle, 57, passed on
Thursday,
 Dec. 16, 2004, at the Hospice at Home, The Meadows,
Buchanan.
A memorial service will be held from 2 to 5 p.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 21, at the Van Buren County Intermediate School
District's Tech Center, 250 South Street, Lawrence, Mich.
A graduate of Central
Michigan University, Sandra earned her bachelor of arts degree with
a double major in journalism and library science. She retired from
the Dowagiac Union Schools, where she taught for 28 years. Sandra
served as K-6, K-4, 5-8 and 7-8 librarian. As library department
chair for seven years, she either led or co-chaired the annual
community book fair held at Southwestern Michigan College. A Junior
Great Books advisor at Central Junior High, she was also a mentor in
the at-risk program. Upon retirement, Engle received recognition for
being the president of the Dowagiac Education Association for 21
years and 28 years as an association leader in a variety of local,
regional, state and national positions.
Engle was appointed to the Michigan Department of
Education, Office of Professional Preparation and Certification
Library Media Advisory Committee on Standards and Testing for 1997
to 1999. She also served on the school's district-wide professional
development and school improvement committees and wrote publicity
articles for the district for many years.
She was a member of the Michigan Association of Media
in Education and the American Library Association. She also served
on the Dowagiac United Way Board of Directors for two years and on
the LINK Teen Crisis Intervention Center board in St. Joseph for a
year. Engle is a past secretary of the Sister Lakes PTO and was
active in the Sister Lakes Athletic Association.
Before beginning teaching, she was a staff writer for
the Herald-Palladium newspaper, wrote for the Southwest Michigan
Tourist Council and was director of public relations for Bronte
Champagne and Wine Company.
Survivors include her husband of 35 years, Bryce; two
daughters, Tristan Engle-Maney (Michael) of Wilmington, Del., and
Meghan Engle of San Francisco, Calif.; father, Charles William Drake
(Barb) of Greenville, Ohio; half-sisters, Shannon Fleak of Delphos,
Ohio, and Denise Drake of Las Vegas, Nev.; and half-brothers,
Charles Drake of Pique, Ohio, and John David Drake of Cridesville,
Ohio.
Preceding her in death was her mother, Eleanor.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations made
to the University of Chicago in care of Dr. James Mastrianni, CJD
Research Project, 5841 S. Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637; the
Hospice at Home Inc., 4017 Chamberlain, Buchanan, MI 49107; or the
Dowagiac Education Association Scholarship Fund, in care of Patricia
Nawrocki, 575 Invicta Drive, Niles, MI 49102
NOTE: Sandra was a
1965 Hartford High School graduate
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Kenneth W. 'Casey'
Carmichael, 69, of Hartford
passed from his life on earth to eternity in heaven on Dec. 12,
 2004, at Bronson Methodist Hospital, Kalamazoo.
Ken was born Aug. 1, 1935, at Mercy Hospital in Benton
Harbor to Dean and Aletha Carmichael. His father passed away at an
early age and Ken was raised by his mother and his stepfather, Cecil
Carmichael, at their farm in Hartford.
Ken retired from the trucking industry where he was a
trucking terminal manager for JW Cartage in St. Joseph and more
recently a truck driver for GraBell Trucking in Holland, Mich.
He was a loving husband and father, enjoyed farming and
the outdoors, and a very handy man of all trades. Ken was also a
Christian man that enjoyed helping the needy by volunteering at the
Salvation Army soup kitchen in Benton Harbor, and he contributed
often to other charitable causes. He was dearly loved and respected
and will be missed by many.
The family received friends from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8
p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 15, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. Services
will be held at Hartford United Methodist Church at 11 a.m. today,
Dec. 16, the Rev. Ron Hansen officiating. Burial will be in Hill
Cemetery, Lawrence.
Immediate survivors include: his wife, Joyce Miller
Carmichael; mother, Aletha Carmichael; three daughters -- Rhonda
Wilbur of Kenosha, Wis., Karen McClay of Portage, Mich., Anita Davis
of Canton, Ga.; son, Kenneth C. Carmichael of Watervliet; stepson,
Shane Empson of St. Clair Shores, Mich.; stepdaughter, Shannon
Empson of Reno, Nev.; first wife, Shirlene Carmichael of Watervliet;
grandson, Beau Shine of Kalamazoo; two brothers, Garland Carmichael
of Huachuca City, Ariz., and David Falle of Lawrence; and sister,
Joann Wainscott of Osprey, Fla. Additional survivors include three
sons-in-law, Mike Wilbur, John McClay and Johnny Davis;
brother-in-law, Chris Wainscott; sister-in-law, Jan Carmichael;
nephew, Kevin Carmichael, and niece, Maria Duarte.
Ken was preceded in death by his father, Dean
Carmichael; and stepfather, Cecil Carmichael.
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Mary Ann Shafer Munro,
died Dec. 11, 2004 in Henderson, Nevada. Born Sept. 7, 1927, in Hartford, Mich., she was
the sixth of seven children of Del and Ruth
%20MaryAnn%20d%2012-11-2004%20.jpg) Shafer. They were the
prototype of a Midwest farm family.
In 1947, she married Nat Munro, an adventurous World
War II U.S. Army veteran, and left home heading west, where they
eventually arrived in Henderson in early 1948.
Mary Ann raised four children, and in addition, was the
accountant for Nat's construction contracting business. She later
worked in real estate and as a teaching assistant. She actively
supported the activities of Special Olympics and Opportunity
Village. She was proud of Henderson and Southern Nevada; the people,
desert, mountains and history. Her lifetime spanned from the roaring
20's through the Great Depression, through World War II, then the
birth and development of modern Henderson and Las Vegas, and into
the 21st Century. Hers was a wonderful life.
Mary Ann was vital and active right up until the final
few weeks of her life when she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
During those final weeks, she was the definition of selflessness and
courage. She is missed in every possible way.
Mary Ann is survived by Nat, her husband of 57 years;
and her children, Steve, Alick, Marsha and Bruce. She had six
grandchildren, Lindsey, Mackenzie, Haley and Graham Munro, Cameron
and Gabriel Hulsey. Her surviving siblings are, Robert, Steve, Naomi
and Ellen.
On Wednesday, Dec. 15, at Palm Mortuary, 800 S. Boulder
Highway, a visitation will be at 1 p.m., followed by a memorial
service at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to
Opportunity Village or Special Olympics.
Note:
Mary Ann was a
1945 Hartford
High School graduate.
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Myrtle Smith Squires,
95, of Hartford passed from her life on earth to eternity in heaven
on Tuesday, Nov. 23, 2004, at Rose Arbor Hospice House, Kalamazoo.
Myrtle was born on May 17, 1909, in Chicago, the
daughter of James and Annetta (Chenery) MacLeod Sr., both of whom
precede her in passing. She moved to Hartford from Chicago as a
little girl. Myrtle was a life member and a Worthy Matron of the
Benevolence Chapter OES 256.
She attended the Hartford United Methodist Church and was the
organist and pianist for a number of years. She was co-owner of the
Art Smith Paint and Appliance Store for many years.
The family will greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday,
Nov. 26, at the Hartford United Methodist Church, where an Eastern
Star service will be held at 7:30 p.m.. The service to honor her
memory will be conducted at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27, at the church.
The Rev. Ronald Hansen will officiate. Burial will follow at Maple
Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Memorials may be made to Benevolence
Chapter 256, the church or to donors' choice.
Myrtle is survived by her children -- Myra (Gale)
Weberg of Hartford, Sandy (Gary) Curtiss of Mattawan and Richard
(Mary Jo) Smith of Lawrence; stepchildren -- Donald (Janet) Squires
and Mildred (Bruce) Bradley; grandchildren -- Steven Smith, Nancy
Baker, Mark Smith, Debra Kiser, Scott Weberg, Brian Weberg, Kevin
Weberg, Sharyl Freeman, Judi Kingsbury and Steve Curtiss; 17
great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Besides her parents, Myrtle was preceded in death by
her first husband, William (Art) Smith in 1971; her second husband,
Mackey Squires in 1982; a brother, James MacLeod Jr.; two sisters,
Hazel Shymkus and Elizabeth (Bess) Barkell; and a stepson, James
Squires.
Note:
Click here to
view photo of Myrtle when she worked at the Hartford Telephone
Office in the early 1930s.
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Gail Dankert Knapp
died peacefully November 4, 2004 in Davis, California after a long
illness.
She was proud to have been a successful secretary, first for
Roosevelt's Emergency Relief Administration, then for Michigan Civil
Service Commission, for the Louisville and Nashville Railroad and,
finally in the History Department of Central Michigan University for
over twenty years.
She was born on April 14, 1915 in Norwegian Tabitha
Hospital, Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Frank Dankert of
Chicago and Sadie Dillman Dankert of Bangor, Michigan. An avid
family genealogist and amateur historian, she liked especially to
recall that she had sat on the knee of a man who was born when
Andrew Jackson was President -- her grandfather, Adam Dillman. Her
family moved frequently when she was a child, bringing her finally
back to southwestern Michigan where her mother's family lived.
She graduated as
Valedictorian in a class of nineteen from Hartford High School in
1932. Certified by the Royal Typewriter Company, she began
her life-long dedication to making offices run smoothly and
efficiently by working for the Emergency Relief Administration. In
the depths of the Depression, she supported her mother and siblings
on the $60 a month salary.
She moved to Lansing in 1937 to work for the new
Michigan Civil Service Commission and there in 1941 she met Austin
Knapp of Clare, Michigan. They were married in 1942 and remained
devoted to each other for sixty two years. In 1946 they moved to Mt.
Pleasant, Michigan, where Austin had a position at Central Michigan
University, there she made life-long friends among faculty and
"faculty dames", as well as managing the History Department.
She was a loving mother who always sought the best for
her children. She is survived by her husband, two sons, Robert C. of
Oakland, California and Charles W. of Carson City, Nevada; younger
sister, Carol Kime of Battle Creek, Michigan; younger brother, Roger
Dankert of Aurora, Colorado; two grandchildren, Abigail Knapp Cruz
and Hannah Mary Knapp; and also five nieces and nephews.
An avid reader all her life, her books were only
slightly less dear to her than her family. She instilled in her
children and her nieces a love of reading, one of her greatest
gifts. After a brief family service, her remains will be laid to
rest in Cherry Grove Cemetery, Clare, Michigan.
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James
Leslie Colman passed away peacefully at home on
Saturday, Oct. 23, 2004 at 5:55 p.m. Jim was born April 8, 1927, in
Hartford, Michigan, the son of
 Franklin S. and Frances Colman.
He was a
1944
graduate of Hartford High School, where he was active in
sports and Boy Scouts, becoming one of Hartford's first Eagle
Scouts.
After serving in the U.S. Navy during WWII, he went on to
graduate from Western Michigan University and University of Michigan
School of Law. While earning his degree at Western he, also served
there as an instructor.
Jim married Patricia B. Frazier, also of Hartford, on
Sept. 23, 1950, in Keeler, Michigan. Following graduation from
University of Michigan, Jim and Pat moved to a home on Paw Paw Lake,
where they raised five children. Jim was Watervliet's only
practicing attorney and an integral part of the Waterv1iet community
for the next sixteen years. He was an active member of the First
Methodist Church, Lions Club and the Masonic Lodge, of which he is a
lifetime member. He was also a longtime member of the Waterv1iet
Board of Education, serving numerous years as President and was
instrumental in the creation of the present Watervliet High School
and Stadium.
After moving the family to Florida in the 1970's, Jim
was able to return to his first love of teaching, serving as an
instructor at Manatee Community College, University of South Florida
and Jacksonville Community College.
Following Pat's death in 1984, Jim was re-introduced to
childhood mend and former Hartford resident Jeanette Morton
Satterfield. They married April 1, 1991, and have made their home in
Elkhart, Ind.
Jim is survived by his wife Jeanette, children Patty
Colman Ausdenmore of Seneca, SC, Jim Colman of Spring Hill, FL,
Steve (Kitty) Colman of Satellite Beach, FL, Tom (Lori) Colman of
Watervliet, MI, Mike Colman of Key Largo, FL, grandchildren David (Jenn)
Colman of Satellite Beach, FL, Jennifer Colman of Tallahassee, FL,
Caitlin Colman of Spring Hill, FL, great-grandson, Anthony James
Colman of Satellite Beach, FL, Jeanette's children Jim (Doris)
Satterfield, Dianne (Doug) Satterfield Osborne, Kathy Satterfield
Dardis and Jeanene (Bud) Satterfield Konanz, all of Elkhart, IN, and
numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Brothers Bud Colman
of Hartford, MI, Clyde (Gail) Colman of Berrien Springs, MI, sister
Margaret Colman Martens of Hartford, MI, brother-in-law Jack Treat
of Grand Haven, MI, Art (Jan) Frazier of Eau Claire, MI, Penny
Colman-Crandal of Brevard, NC, and many loving relatives also
survive Jim.
Preceding Jim in death were his parents, first wife
Pat, brother Bob Colman, sisters Mabel Colman Nelson and Joan Colman
Treat, sister-in-law Shirley Colman, brother-in-law Charles Martens
and son-in-law Bill Ausdenmore.
Jim was well known for his quick wit, wonderful
stories, lively sense of humor and irrepressible spirit. All of
those traits were in evidence at a recent reunion held October 10th
at his home in Elkhart where many friends and relatives traveled to
spend time with him. He was well loved and will be deeply missed but
fondly remembered by those who were blessed to be a part of his
life.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that
contributions be made to Elkhart General Hospice, 2020 Industrial
Parkway, Elkhart, Ind. 46516. A graveside memorial service will be
held in Hartford, MI at Maple Hill Cemetery on Nov. 13, 2004, at a
time yet to be decided. Billings Funeral Home, Elkhart, Ind., is in
charge of arrangements. Online memorials may be emailed to the
family at www.billingsfuneralhome.com.
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Donna L. Hoover,
69, of Bangor passed away Sunday, Oct. 17, 2004, at her home.
The family will meet friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday
at the Bangor Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home (www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com).
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at Trinity Evangelical
Lutheran Church, Bangor, with Pastor John Kenyon officiating.
Interment will follow in North Shore Memory Gardens. The family
suggest memorials to Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church or South
Haven Area Hospice.
Donna was born June 27, 1935, in Watervliet, the
daughter of Donald and Alice (Seibert) Rush. She had lived most of
her life in the Bangor-Hartford areas and was a member of Trinity
Evangelical Lutheran Church. Donna enjoyed doing crossword puzzles
and shopping for her grandchildren, which were the highlight of her
life; but first and foremost, she was always a lady.
Surviving are her husband, Murl, whom she married Jan.
19, 1957, in Hartford; three children -- Diana (Bruce) Bagnell of
Nashua, N.H., Gail (Randy) Gumpert of South Haven and Bruce (Ranee)
Hoover of Stevensville; eight grandchildren; her mother, Alice Rush
of Hartford; four sisters -- June Walker of South Bend, Ind., Jean
Walker of Hartford, Ruth Malling of Temecula, Calif., and Denise
Fuller of Hartford; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a son, Mitchell; her
father, Donald Rush; and a sister, Karen Rush.
Note: Donna was
a
1953 graduate of Hartford High School.
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Robert S.
Heuser, of Lawrence died suddenly on Oct. 15, 2004, in Grand
Junction, Color., at the age of 70.
Robert was born on Jan. 25, 1934, to Eugene Jerome and Marjorie
Pauline (Rush) Heuser in Hartford. He married Georgia Ann Sousley on
Sept. 8, 1956.
Robert is survived by his beloved wife Georgia;
four children --Marjorie of Kalamazoo, Marcia (Gerold) Hoke of
Lawrence, Bruce of Lawrence and Melanie Henderson of Lawrence; five
grandchildren -- Meghan, Kristen and David Reed; Charles and Katlyn
Henderson. Robert is also survived by brothers --Wallace (Laura)
Heuser of Lawrence, Kenneth (Marqueda) Heuser of Kalamazoo, Earl
Heuser of Hesperia; and numerous nieces and nephews. Robert
was preceded in death by his mother, Marjorie; his father, Eugene;
stepmother, Pauline; a sister, Joan; and a brother, David.
Robert graduated from
Hartford High School
in
1951, and Michigan State University in 1956, with a horticulture
and wildlife management degree. He was active in the management of
the family farm, Hilltop Orchards and Nurseries Inc. in Hartford.
Robert was also active in the Boy Scouts of America as scout master
of troop 197 in Lawrence for 17 years and earned numerous leadership
awards. He also served as a school board member for the
Lawrence Public Schools. Robert was a member of the Rocky
Mountain Elk Foundation, past member of the Kalamazoo Model Railroad
Club, was a supporter of many youth organizations and a member of
the Hartford United Methodist Church. Robert recently received the
first Mentoring Champion Award from the Van Buren Mentoring
Roundtable for his contributions to youth in Van Buren County.
His passions included wildlife conservation, hunting, hiking and
woodworking. He also loved spending time with family and
friends.
The family will greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday,
Oct. 21, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. A celebration of
Robert's life will be held at the Hartford United Methodist Church
at 11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 22, with the Rev. Ronald Hansen
officiating. Burial will be in Hill Cemetery, Lawrence immediately
following the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made
to the American Diabetes Association; Lawrence Quick Response Team;
Boy Scouts of America (Troop of your choice) or the Rocky Mountain
Elk Foundation.
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Raymond
Theron Floate, 89, of
Hartford, passed from his life on earth to eternity in heaven on
Thursday, Sept. 23, 2004, at Community Hospital, Watervliet.
Raymond was born on Dec. 21, 1914, in Hartford, the son
of William and Leila (Shafer) Floate, both of whom precede him in
death. Raymond also was preceded in death by a sister, Freda Kime,
and a brother, Walter Floate. Raymond married his wife of 63 years,
Isabelle on July 11, 1941, and she survives along with a son,
William (Carole) Floate of Lake Bluff, Ill.; a daughter, Paula
(Zach) Holmes of Plymouth; a grandson, Zach G. Holmes of Colorado
Springs, Colo., and a granddaughter, Christine Holmes of Richmond,
Va.
Raymond was an agricultural teacher in both the Allegan
Public Schools and the Kaleva Public Schools and was the assistant
Allegan County agent for the MSU extension services. Raymond retired
from Michigan Fruit Canners in 1980 after 34 years of employment.
The family will greet friends from 2 to 4 p.m. on
Sunday at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. A service to honor his
memory will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday at the Hartford United
Methodist Church, of which he was a member. The Rev. Ronald Hansen
will be officiating. Burial will follow the service at Maple Hill
Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the
Hartford Public Library or Hartford United Methodist Church.
Note: Ray was a
HHS
1933 graduate.
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 Frederick Mathew Cade,
83, of Hartford, passed from his life on Earth to eternity in heaven
with his Savior Jesus Christ on Thursday, Sept. 16, 2004, at his
home.
Fred was born on June 16, 1921, in New York, the son of
the late John and Agnes (Fields) Cade, both of whom precede him in
passing.
Fred owned and operated the
Shell gas station when it was located on Red Arrow Highway in
Hartford for 20 years and then owned and operated the Sinclair/Arco
gas station for another 28 years. Fred was a loving husband,
father and grandfather, and a caring friend to many others.
He served his country during
World War II as a U.S. Marine.
As to Fred's wishes, cremation has taken place. A
memorial service to honor his memory will be held at 11 a.m. Monday
at the Hartford Federated Church. Pastor Timothy Nyhuis will
officiate. Private burial with military rites will be held at Fort
Custer National Cemetery in Augusta at a later date. In lieu of
flowers, memorials may be made to the Hartford Federated Church.
Fred is survived by his wife, Frances, whom he married
on Oct. 28, 1943; son, David (Susan) Cade of Hartford; daughter,
Virginia Munro of Denver, Colo.; son, Michael (Janice) Cade of
Coloma, and son, Christopher (Lisa) Cade of Glenwood Springs, Colo.
Fred is also survived by six grandchildren; one great-grandchild; a
brother, John (Sherrie) Cade of Trenton, N.J.; and several nieces,
nephews and friends. Besides his parents, Fred was preceded in
death by a brother, James Graves.
Note: Fred was
a
1940 graduate of Hartford High School.
Click here to view is military photo and profile. He was
instrumental in the creation of Hartford's first tennis court in the
1960s(?) down near the old dump in Hartford.
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James Thomas Kappler, aged 67, of Jackson,
passed away on September 16, 2004 at W.A. Foote Memorial
 Hospital. He was born
on September 7, 1937 in Manchester, MI to Alvin and Hazel (Eckler)
Kappler.
He was a 1959 graduate of the University of Michigan with a
Bachelor of Arts degree in education. Jim began his teaching career
at Grass Lake High School. After receiving his Master of Arts degree
in education from Eastern Michigan University, he became the high
school principal at Grass Lake. He then was
principal at Hartford High
School and Manchester High School. One of Jim's greatest joys
was helping a troubled or underachieving student to succeed.
Following a career in education, Jim began a second career as a
travel consultant at Martha Cox Travel and for the past
15 years at Lee Bisbee Travel Service. Jim's clients appreciated his
attention to detail and I ability to paint a verbal picture of their
destinations. Jim's hobbies were reading and travel. He was an avid
fan of the Detroit Tigers and Michigan Wolverines.
He is survived by his sister, Barbara (John) Beck of
Marshfield, WI; three aunts and several cousins.
Funeral services will be conducted 1:00 p.m., Tuesday,
September 21, 2004 at Sherwood Funeral Home with the Reverend Gustav
H. Kuether officiating, per his wishes, cremation will follow.
Visitation will be Monday from 4 to 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers,
memorial contributions may be made to the National Organization of
Rare Diseases designated to the Polycythemia research fund.
Note:
James was principal of
Hartford High School 1968-1977.
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Alice Meister Miller,
88, formerly of Hartford, passed away peacefully Friday, Sept. 10,
2004.
She was born in Petoskey, Mich., on Jan. 18, 1916, to Justin and
Elizabeth (Steffel) Meister.
Mrs. Miller was a paralegal
secretary for Olds & MacKinder law firm. She had been a
member of the Southwest Michigan Legal Secretaries Association,
serving as president and secretary.
She supported her husband in
establishing the chapter of the Hartford Lions Club, of which she
was a member. She had been active in the Altar Society at
Immaculate Conception Church of Hartford.
They lived in
Kalamazoo and Portage for several years. She attended Western
Michigan University. They were volunteers at Bronson Hospital Senior
Center and Portage Senior Center. Mrs. Miller had lived with her
daughter, Joyce Carmichael at Shafer Lake, for the past three years.
She will be
dearly missed by all her children, Elizabeth (VonDean) Huddleston of
St. Joseph, Carole Mayer of Ann Arbor, Herschel (Betty) Miller of
Delton, Mich., and Joyce (Casey/Kenneth) Carmichael of Lawrence.
The
grandchildren she leaves are Michael Huddleston Sr. of Burnsville,
Minn., Barbara Jenkins of North Ridgeville, Ohio, Phillip Huddleston
of Reno, Nev., Bill Mayer and Robert Mayer, both of Ann Arbor,
William Miller III of Byron, Ga., Jerome Miller of Wyoming, Mich.,
Shane Empson of Saint Clair Shores, Mich., and Shannon Empson of
Oakland, Calif. She also leaves seven great-grandchildren; and a
brother, Edward (Kathryn) Meister of Mount Pleasant, Mich.
Mrs. Miller was
preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, William Herschel
Miller; her parents; grandson, Stephen Huddleston, and
granddaughter, Mary Miller; sisters, Mildred Brown, Ruth Lustig and
Edith Brown.
There will be no
visitation, as cremation has taken place. A memorial Mass will be
celebrated at Immaculate Conception Church in Hartford, Saturday,
Sept. 18, at 11 a.m. Friends are invited to visit with the family
and share lunch after the service, in the church hall.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the
Hartford Lions Club Scholarship Fund or the Immaculate Conception
Church.
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Richard C.
Robbins -
The loving
family and many friends and acquaintances of Richard C. Robbins Jr.,
of Hartford,
Michigan,
were shocked and saddened to learn of his sudden passing on Sunday,
August 29, 2004, at Community Hospital, Watervliet.
Dick was born on August 14, 1940, to Richard C. and
Velma (Newnum) Robbins Sr., in Arlington Township, Michigan. He
graduated from Lawrence High School in 1958 and served
six years in the U.S. Navy,
both on active duty and in the reserves.
Dick married his devoted wife, Sharyn Michal (Keech) in
1961 and were subsequently the proud parents of Lisa (Tim) Morrow of
Sawyer, Michigan and Richard "Gary" Robbins of St. Joseph, Michigan.
In addition to his immediate family, Dick is survived
by his mother Velma Robbins of South Haven, Michigan and
step-mother, Danna Robbins of Hartford, Michigan. Dick will be
dearly missed by the light-of-his-life, granddaughter Jayme Woodward
of Sawyer, Michigan, a student at River Valley High School. Dick is
also survived by two brothers, Thomas (Gail) Robbins of Zionsville,
Indiana and Spence "Wally" (Anne) Robbins of Statesville, North
Carolina, two brother-in-laws Jim (Ruth) Keech of Keeler, Michigan
and Richard (Barbara) Keech of Berrien Springs, Michigan along with
several nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews. His father,
Richard Cecil Robbins Sr., preceded him in death in 2003.
Dick spent most of his working career in the
construction industry as both a driver and a master mechanic. He
helped to set up the agriculture/diesel department of the Van Buren
Vo-Tec Center and taught there for one year. Dick was
an active member of the
Hartford Fire Department for many years. He served the community of
Hartford as a councilman and was currently a member of the Hartford
Township Zoning Commission. Dick most recently retired and worked
part time at Kellogg Hardware in Hartford.
Dick's "farm" was his passion where he also
collected antique farming equipment. He loved the country life as it
afforded him many opportunities to feed and observe birds, deer and
local wildlife. Dick was always ready to lend a helping hand to his
many good friends and neighbors, putting to use his years of
experience to fix what had been broken, and improve what was
lacking.
The family will receive friends from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M.
on Wednesday September 1 at the Calvin Funeral Home Hartford. The
memorial service to honor Dick's memory will be held at 11 A.M. on
Thursday at the funeral home. Pastor Timothy Nyhuis of the Hartford
Federated Church will officiate. Private burial of his ashes will be
held later in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Those wishing to make a
memorial in Dick's name may do so with the organization of their
choice.
|
James Z. Byers, 81, of
St. Joseph, passed away Thursday, Aug. 26, 2004, at his home.
 A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at
10 a.m. Monday at the First Presbyterian Church, 475 Green St.,
Benton Harbor, with the Rev. Douglas Petersen officiating.
Friends may call one hour prior to the service at the church.
Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church. Those
wishing to share a memory or sign the guest book online may do
so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
Mr. Byers was born Jan. 4, 1923, in Kalamazoo to George
and Huldena (Krieger) Byers. He grew up in Hartford,
graduating from Hartford
High School in
1940.
Jim was a retired USN Lieutenant, serving his country during
World War II and the Korean War. He was
an avid aviator for over sixty-five years and a charter
member of the EAA. Jim was a flight instructor for over twenty
years at Ross Field in Benton Harbor. Jim's trumpet playing was
enjoyed by area music lovers for over three decades. On April
20, 1977, he married Virginia Glupker Ozeran in Benton Harbor.
Jim was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Benton
Harbor, St. Joseph Elks 541, and VFW Post 1137 in Benton Harbor.
Mr. Byers is survived by his wife of twenty-seven
years, Virginia; two sons, Michael (Penny) Byers of Brockton,
Mass., and Scott (Alice) Byers of Lower Burrell, Pa.; five
grandsons; and a great-granddaughter, Sarah Ann Byers.
He was preceded in death by his father, George Byers;
and his mother and stepfather, Huldena and Edison Harley.
|
Dale E. Kooi,
Kalamazoo, died Sunday,
August 22, 2004 at Borgess Medical Center. He was born
September 6, 1928 in Kalamazoo, son of the late Daniel
 and
Katie
(Molhoek) Kooi.
Dale graduated from Western Michigan University with a
B.S. in music. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force,
serving in Hawaii and Salt Lake City, Utah. Following his
military service, Dale married Jean Davis on August 8, 1958. He
had a passion for music.
Dale was employed as a band director for 35 years, working at
both Hartford High School [1965-1968] and Delton High School, until
his retirement. For 21 years, Dale and Jean would travel to
Switzerland, where they would vacation for the month of August.
He was also a member of the Kalamazoo Concert Band and the
Singing Crusaders, where he sang and directed the orchestra.
While in the Air Force, Dale was in the Mormon Tabernacle Choir
in Salt Lake City.
Surviving are one sister, Maurine (Jim) Wolford of St.
Petersburg, Florida; one brother, Ray (Jane) Kooi of Dunedin,
Florida; three nephews, Blair Kooi of Western Springs, Illinois,
and Brian (Norma) Kooi of Palm Harbor, Florida, and James
Wolford of Oakland, CA; and two nieces, Pamela (John) McLuckie
of Jefferson, Maryland, and Bonnie (Greg) Buntz of Grinnell,
Iowa. Preceding him in death are his wife, Jean Kooi; and
his parents, Daniel and Katie Kooi.
Funeral services and interment for Mr. Kooi will be at
2 o'clock on Friday at Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park, with Rev.
Stephen M.G. Charnley, of Gull Lake United Methodist Church,
officiating. Friends may visit on Friday from 1 p.m. until the
time of services. As an expression of sympathy, memorial
contributions may be directed to a charity of choice. The family
is being served by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial
Chapel, 622 S. Burdick St.
Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 8/25/2004.
|
Donald
Harvey Rhinehart, 74, of
Hartford
passed away unexpectedly from his life on earth to eternity in
heaven on Friday, Aug. 20, 2004, at his home.
Donald was born on Dec. 28, 1929, in Watervliet, the
son of Harvey and Bertha (McCombs) Rhinehart, both of whom
preceded him in death.
Donald served
his country in the U.S. Army Air Force, was a lifetime
member of the Henry Chamberlain Lodge 308 F&AM, the American
Legion Stoddard Post 93 and a member of Moose Lodge 1570 of
Benton Harbor.
As to his wishes, cremation has taken place. A
graveside memorial service to honor his memory was held at 11
a.m. Thursday, Aug. 26, 2004, at Maple Hill Cemetery,
Hartford.
The Chamberlain Coffinbury Lodge 308 performed Masonic rites and
VFW Post 1137, VFW Post 6803 and American Legion Post 362 and
auxiliary conducted military rites. In lieu of flowers,
memorials may be made to the family.
Donald is survived by a son, Ronald Rhinehart of
Hartford;
two daughters -- Carri Rhinehart of Palm Bay, Fla., and Irene
(David) Morris of Staffordsville, Ky.; two grandsons -- William
(Kristi) Bennett and Donald Bennett; two great-granddaughters --
Carri Bennett and Lily Schultz; two sisters -- Loretta (Tom)
Treadwell of Arizona and Evelyn Brown of Coldwater, Mich.; and a
brother, Richard (Rosa) Rhinehart of Arizona.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by
a son, Donald Charles Rhinehart; and two grandsons, Michael
Bennett and Vern Bennett III.
Note:
Donald was a
1947 Hartford High School graduate.
|
Evelyn Cook Dorkoski,
75, of
Hartford passed away on Monday, Aug. 16, 2004, at
Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community, South Haven.
Evelyn was born on June 15, 1929, in Bangor, the
daughter of L. Reed and Mary (Boyer) Cook, both of whom preceded
her in death. A brother, Roger Cook, also preceded Evelyn in
death.
The family received friends from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday,
Aug. 20, with the service to honor her memory being held at 11
a.m. Friday, Aug. 20, at Calvin Funeral Home,
Hartford.
Pastor Tim Sipes of the Bangor Church of Christ officiated the
services. Burial followed the service at Arlington Hill
Cemetery, Bangor. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to
the Bangor Church of Christ.
Evelyn is survived by her brother, Duane (Lois) Cook of
Hartford;
sister-in-law, Mary Cook of Kalamazoo; nephews -- Gary (Tammy)
Cook of Kalamazoo and Fred (Lisa) Cook of
Hartford;
and nieces -- Diane (John) Bussema of Kalamazoo, Linda (Bill)
Bechtel of Denver, Colo., Terry Cook of Battle Creek, Rhonda
(Chuck) Wiersma of Scotts, Mich. Evelyn is also survived by
great-nieces and nephews, Aimee and Josh Cook, Christopher,
Shelby and Corey Cook, Tonya and Sara Bussema, Levi and Dana
Bechtel, Julie and Jackie Leske, Greg Skitt and Alex and Sydney
Wiersma
|
Billy
Eugene Williams
70, of
Hartford
passed from his life on earth to eternity in heaven on Sunday,
Aug. 1, 2004, at Lakeland Hospital, St. Joseph.
Billy was born on Jan. 18, 1934, in Hornersville, Mo.,
the son of John and Mamie (Patterson) Williams. Billy was a
member of the
Hartford
United Methodist Church. He worked for Krogers as meat manager
from 1958 to 1980. In 1981 he became meat manager and meat
supervisor for Harding's West until his retirement.
The family received friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday,
Aug. 3, at Calvin Funeral Home,
Hartford.
The service to honor his memory was held at 11 a.m. Wednesday,
Aug. 4, at the
Hartford
United Methodist Church. The Rev. Ronald Hansen officiated at
the service. Burial followed the service at Keeler Cemetery. In
lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the church.
Billy is survived by his wife, Carol, whom he married
on Aug. 12, 1956; five daughters -- Kathie Lhotka, Nancy (Gene)
Larsson, Pam Williams and Karen Williams, all of
Hartford;
and Lisa Williams and her fiancé, Lenny Mechino of Holland; four
sons -- Doug (Karen) Williams of Coloma, Craig Williams of
Hartford,
Michael (Adrienne) Williams and Robert Williams of Dowagiac.
Also surviving are granddaughters -- Amy (Joe) Gerhold of
Decatur and Stacy Raines of Coloma; and great-grandson, Blade
Williams of Dowagiac.
Billy was preceded in death by his parents; 16 brothers and
sisters; and numerous nieces and nephews.
|
Julius Albert Goldamer,
85, of
Hartford passed from his life on earth to eternity in
heaven on Saturday, July 31, 2004, at Lakeland Hospital, St.
Joseph.
Julius was born on Sept. 23, 1918, in Neillsville,
Wis., the son of William and Rose (Zimmerman) Goldamer, both of
whom preceded him in death.
Julius was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.
He served his country in
the U.S. Army during World War II. He retired from Bendix
Corporation after numerous years of employment. Being a body
man, Julius had a love for collecting and restoring old
Mustangs.
The family received friends from 6 to 8 p.m.,
Wednesday, Aug. 4, at the Calvin Funeral Home,
Hartford.
A service to honor his memory was held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Aug.
5, at the
Hartford
Church of God. Pastor Lonnie Truelove officiated at the service.
Burial followed the service in North Shore Memory Gardens,
Coloma. The VFW Post 1137; VFW Post 6803; and American Legion
Post 362 and its auxiliary conducted military rites. In lieu of
flowers, memorials may be made to the American Kidney
Foundation.
Julius is survived by his wife, Esther, whom he married
in October of 1964; his son, Jack Goldamer of Wisconsin;
daughter, Sharon (Kirk) Daniel of Lawrence; daughter, Shirley
(Ronald) Vance of Dowagiac; and son, Robert Petty of Florida.
Also surviving are 11 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and
sisters--Geneva Bachman of
Hartford
and Alice Bowden of Clio, Mich.
|
Bobbie Edward Summerhill,
62, of Hartford passed suddenly from his life on earth to
eternity in heaven on Saturday, July 17, 2004 at Lakeland
hospital, St. Joseph. Bobby was born on Dec.
8, 1941, in Kennett, MO., the son of Walter and Vernon Jonell
(Goldsmith) Summerhill.
Bobbie was a
1960 graduate of Hartford High School. He
formerly was employed at the Watervliet Paper Mill for more than
27 years and then worked for over six years at the Bowater NuWay
Paper Company of Benton Harbor.
The family will
receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, July 22, at Calvin
Funeral Home, Hartford. A service to honor his memory will be
held at 1 p.m. on Friday, July 23, at Hartford Federated Church.
Pastor Timothy Nyhuis of Hartford Federated Church and Pastor
Wayne Davis of His Place, Cathedral of the Faith of Hartford, will
officiate. As to his wishes, cremation will take place following
the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Berrien
Community Foundation/Oncology Care Patient Support Fund.
Bobbie is survived by
his wife, Claudia; a son,, Bobbie Summerhill of Hartford; son,
Anthony (Virginia) Summerhill of Holland, Mich.; son, Timothy
(Lisa) Summerhill of Hartford; son, Jeffrey Summerhill of
Hartford; daughter, Tammy (Jeff) Bond of St. Joseph; daughter,
Tina (Neal) Reid of Apopka, Fla.,; daughter, Lisa (Rodney) Harris
of Twin Lakes, and son, Walter Summerhill of Portage. He is also
survived by 18 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; his
mother-in-law, Earlene Rea of Hillman; brother, Terry (Linda)
Summerhill of Hartford; sister, Marsha Summerhill of Omaha;
sister, Linda (Jim) Parkhurst of Del Ray, Calif.; brother, Randy
(Lois) Summerhill of Kalamazoo; twin brothers, Ron (Linda)
Summerhill of Phoenix and Don (Jennifer Summerhill of Omaha; and
sister, Annette (Rick) Huffman of Pullman.
Bobbie
was preceded in death by his father, Walter; and a sister,
Patricia.
|
Munson Ulysses Robinson
passed away peacefully on June 25, 2004 at
Lakeland Memorial Hospital in St. Joseph, MI. He was born August 10,
1921 in Hartford to
 Ulysses
and Nell Robinson.
Munson was a graduate of Valparaiso Technical College,
where he studied radio engineering. After working in radio for 2
years in Charleston, West Virginia, he joined the FBI and was
assigned to Havana, Cuba. There, he met and married Ivelise Boynton
and returned with her to Hartford.
In 1944 Munson
enlisted in the
Merchant Maries and served as a radio operator. After the
war, he helped build and run WHFB as the Chief Radio Engineer, where
he worked for fifteen years. In the 60's he owned and operated
Background Music Company. Shortly before retirement, he married
Florence Burns who preceded him in death in January of this year.
Munson was a lifetime member of the Benton Harbor Elks
Club, the American Legion, and the U.S. Navy Armed Guard. He enjoyed
travel, golf, electronics, woodworking and working on his computer.
Munson is survived by two daughters, Sandra Robinson of
Kalamazoo and Janice Robinson of Berrien Springs. Two
grand-daughters, Ryann Goergen and Cara Farnsworth; and a niece and
nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Ruth
Harper.
In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken
place. A memorial service will be held at Kerley-Starks & Menchinger
Family Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph, Michigan, at 11:00
A.M. Saturday, July 3, 2004 with Rev. Randy Doyle officiating. A
committal service will be held at the Hartford Maple Hill Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to the Berrien County Cancer Service.
Guest wishing to send the family a condolence on line or sign the
guest book may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
NOTE:
Munson was a
1938 Hartford High School Graduate.
|
|
Kenneth
M. Allen Sr., 61, formerly of Hartford, who was living in
Winnie, Texas, passed away Thursday, June 3, 2004, following an
automobile accident in Michigan City, Ind.
The family and close friends gathered for a private
memorial at the home of David Allen, his brother. Those wishing to
share a memory online may do so at BigKautopro@CS.com .
Kenneth "Ken" was born June 26, 1942, the son of Marion
and Lena (Bouma) Allen. He
attended Hartford High School until
enlistment into the Navy.
He was honorably discharged in 1962. Ken's passion was working on
cars as a mechanic and auto body repairman.
Kenneth will be remembered as a loving husband, father
and friend. His love of NASCAR, "DW" and "Dale" will be carried on
by his friends and family. His laugh will be truly missed.
Surviving are his wife, Carolyn of Winnie, Texas; his
brother, David Allen of Watervliet; two sons -- Kenneth Jr. (Jamie)
of Winnie and Timothy (Mandy) of Georgetown, Ala.; three daughters,
"the twins," Tammy Leger (David) and Michelle Hoyt (Butch), both of
Winnie, and "The Baby," Lena Bishop (Chris) of Georgetown; one
nephew, Micheal Allen of Hartford; 14 grandchildren; and one
great-grandson who was born the morning Ken passed; one great-niece;
and a close family friend, Lis Clement. He was preceded in
death by a sister, Susanne Kaye; his mother, Lena (Bouma) Allen; and
his father, Marion Allen Jr.
Note:
Click here to view Ken's military profile and photo on the History
of Hartford website.
|
 Raoma
R Sloan - born Aug 20, 1927, died May 31, 2004. |
|
Cheryl L.
Wiersema, 59, of South Bend, IN., died at 6 p.m. Tuesday,
June 29, 2004, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center, South Bend, of
cancer.
Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. (Michigan
time) on Saturday, July 3, at Paul E. Mayhew Funeral Home,
Edwardsburg. Cremation has taken place. Friends may call one hour
prior to the memorial service at the funeral home. Memorial
donations may be made to Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Cheryl was born Jan. 13, 1945, to George H. Ross and
Eileen 0. Hamill Ross in Plainwell. She moved to South Bend in
August of 1973 from Kalamazoo. Cheryl was the former owner of Every
Bloomin’ Thing, Edwardsburg (a florist and gift specialist).
She had attended Southwestern Michigan College of Dowagiac and St.
Mary’s of the Woods in Terre Haute. She was an LPN, having worked
for Borgess Hospital, Kalamazoo, and LakeView Hospital, Paw Paw, as
well as Dr. Wayne Boyd’s office in Decatur. She studied floral
design, working for Avenue Floral, South Bend: Flower Cart of Niles
and Martin’s Floral Department at Northpoint, Elkhart, lnd., as well
as owning her own florist shop, Town Hall.
As Cheryl L. Ross, she married Nicklos J. Wiersema, on
Sept. 13, 1969, in Hartford. He survives along with a son, Matthew
Wiersema of South Bend; daughter, Melissa Wiersema of Ann Arbor,
Mich., and Melissa’s friend, Tom Beverly of Ann Arbor, Mich.;
brother, Robert (Kathy) Ross of Benton Harbor.
Note:
Cheryl was a
1963 Hartford High School graduate. |
Jeffrey Jon Flemming,
47, of Hartford passed from his life on earth to eternity in heaven
on Saturday, May 29, 2004,
 at his home. Jeffrey was born on
July 27, 1956, in Kalamazoo, the son of George and Minnie (Warman)
Flemming.
Jeff was
a 1975 graduate of Hartford High School. After graduating he joined
the U.S. Navy. Jeff returned to Hartford after his service to
his country and worked for NCR of Kalamazoo. He was with the
security at Wings Stadium in Kalamazoo where he received an award
for his 15 years of service.
Jeff worked for Hartford High School and was Junior Class and
Year Book Advisor and Technology Supervisor. Jeff also had his own
business, JR Electronics. He helped restore and worked at the
Hartford Race Track. Jeff was on the Medic 1 Board and a proud
member of the Hartford Fire
Department where he was acknowledged as the Fireman of the
Year in 2003.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 9 p.m.
on Tuesday, June 1, at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford. A
service to honor his memory will be conducted at 3:30 p.m. on
Wednesday June 2, at the Hartford United Methodist Church. The Rev.
James Terry will officiate. Jeff will be escorted by the Hartford
Fire Department to his burial in Maple Hill Cemetery Hartford, where
military rites will be performed by VFW Post 1137; VFW Post 6803;
American Legion Post 362 and Auxiliary. In lieu of flowers memorials
may be made to the donor's choice.
Jeff is survived by his two sons -- Jeremy and Ryan
Flemming of Hartford; stepbrother, Wayne (Louise) Nelson of Gobles;
and aunts -- Mary Cottier and Joyce Rzoszut, both of Coloma.
Jeff was preceded in death by his parents; and his
stepfather, Norb Nelson
Note: Click
here to view Jeffrey's photo and military profile on the History of
Hartford website.
|
John William Hampton, Jr
of Gainesville, FL died Tuesday May 4, 2004. He was 89.
Mr. Hampton was born in Hartford, Michigan, and moved
to Gainesville from Jacksonville in 2001. He lived in
Jacksonville for 30 years, where he worked for the U.S. Department
of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service.
He was a U.S. Army veteran
of World War II and the Korean War, and retired from the Army as a
lieutenant colonel. He worked as a District Soil Conservationist for
the USDA in North Florida for over 30 years and retired in 1978. He
was a Unitarian, and enjoyed long-distance running. He competed in
more than 40 marathons, including Marine Corps Marathons, London,
and Pike's Peak, which he ran at 81 years old.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Meta
Elizabeth Hampton; brother, Ken Hampton, and sister, Carol Sigel.
Survivors include daughters Candace Meta Bowman of Houston, TX and
Dr. Sue Langham of Gainesville, FL; son, John William Hampton III of
Crofton, MD; brother Rex Hampton of Colorado Springs, CO; sister,
Doris Moore of Sturgeon Bay, WI; nine grandchildren; and five
greatgrandchildren.
Memorial Services for Mr. Hampton will be held in July
in Buena Vista, Colorado. In lieu of flowers the family requests
that contributions be made to the Ronald McDonald House; 1600 SW
14th Street, Gainesville, Florida 32608. Arrangements are under the
care of WilliamsThomas Funeral Home; (352) 3767556.
|
Janis A. (Bailey) Meyer,
age 75, of Wyoming, Mich., passed away on Thursday, April 29, 2004.
Janis was born July 10, 1928, in Hartford, to George
and Neva Garrett Bailey.
After graduating from Hartford High School [class of
1946],
she worked at Sears in Benton Harbor. After her mother's death, she
moved to Grand Rapids to live with her aunt, Treva McIntyre, and her
family. It was there she met and married Richard Meyer, the love of
her life. They traveled extensively, seeing much of the world.
Ireland was their favorite place; they returned there many times.
They once considered retiring there, but decided there really is no
place like home.
Jan enjoyed working at Sheldon's because of her
customers. Her husband died of a heart attack in 1997, leaving a
shattered, grieving Janis. She mourned, but finally with the help of
loving family and dear friends pulled her life together. She became
an enthusiastic gardener, feeding the birds and squirrels through
the winter as she eagerly awaited the coming of spring. She became a
collector of Americana. Her home and garden were charming. She
acquired a beautiful cat, Toby, that she joked owned her. She was
also one of the last great letter writers and eagerly awaited the
mail.
Janis leaves a loving family and old cherished friends
-- a sister,
Donna
(Phil) Bailey Pullins; nephews -- Phil G. (Randy) Pullins and
Ronda of Morley, Mich., Randy (Barb) and Ben Pullins of Jackson,
Tenn., Chris, Cornelia and Mary Pullins of Hendersonville, Tenn.; a
niece, Debra (Jon) Hermann and their children, Bailey and Eric of
Benton Harbor; sister-in-law, Margaret (Ron) Woodburn of Walker,
Mich.; nephew, Richard Woodburn of California; cherished friends,
Dean LaFontsee, Mr. and Mrs. John Schutt of Wyoming, Mich., and
Toby, who is living in the country with Ronda, a catnip patch, and
PJ and Stumpy. Everyone who knew Jan knew exactly how she regarded
them. She would say "In memory of me, be kind to each other."
As Janis wished, cremation has taken place and there
will be no service. At a later date, Janis will be laid to rest
beside her husband, Richard Meyer, in the family plot at Pioneer
Cemetery, Hartford. God love her, she is in our hearts.
|
Martin Russell Winder Sr.,
44, a resident of Bogalusa LA, passed away Wednesday [April 28,
2004] as a result of a motor vehicle accident. He was a member of
 New Life Pentecostal Church and was employed by the House of
Seafood.
He is survived by his wife, Debbie M. Winder of
Bogalusa; two sons, Martin Russell Winder Jr. of Bogalusa, and Mike
Davis of Bogalusa; two daughters, Rhiannon Winder of Bogalusa and
Amie Davis Passman of Franklinton; his mother, Maxine Creel and
stepfather, Leroy Creel Sr. of Bogalusa; a brother, Leroy Creel Jr.
and family of Bogalusa; sisters, Deborah J. Winder of Bogalusa,
Renee W. Smith and family of Mandeville, and Michelle Creel Jenkins
and family of Jackson, MS; four grandchildren, Ashley Davis of
Bogalusa, Riley Passman of Franklinton, Isabella Winder of Bogalusa,
and T.J. Rester of Bogalusa; his mother and father-in-law, I.L. and
Brenda Moore of Bogalusa; and special friends, Gertie Adams and
Keith Gorum of Bogalusa.
Preceding him in death were his father, Clyde R.
Winder; and grandparents, Moses and Jewel Winder, and Howard ad
Guyzell Phelps.
Visitation will be held today at New Life United
Pentecostal Church in Bogalusa from 6 p.m. until the funeral service
at 2 p.m. Saturday by the Revs. Wesley Quave, Shane Giadrosich and
Charles Ray Creel. Burial will be in Ponemah Cemetery.
Published in
The Daily News,
Washington Parish LA.
NOTE: Martin was a
1977 Hartford High School graduate. |
Bert
Francis Sine,
76, of
Hartford,
formerly of Chicago, passed away on Monday, April 26, 2004 at South
Lake Care
 Center
in Merrillville, Indiana.
Bert was born on February 24, 1928 in Chicago, Illinois
the son of Lawrence and Bertha (DeKoker) Sine both of whom preceded
him in passing. Bert was a former truck driver at Signal Delivery in
Chicago, was a member of the
Hartford
United Methodist Church in
Hartford
Michigan and as everyone who knew him knows, he was a real comedian.
The family will greet friends from 2 to 8 p.m. on
Thursday, April 29 at the Calvin Funeral Home,
Hartford.
A service to honor his memory will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, April
30 at the
Hartford United Methodist Church. The Reverend Ronald Hansen
will officiate. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery,
Hartford
where Military Rites will be conducted by the VFW Post 1137, VFW
Post 6803, and the American Legion Post 362 and it’s auxiliary.
Bert is survived by his beloved wife, Theresa, whom he
married on June 23, 1991. Also surviving are his children, Chuck
(Trish) Marsh, Ed (Rose) Marsh, Judy (Emil) Priesol, Karen
Marsh-Bulmer, Tim (Rhonda) Marsh and Peggy Graziani, his
grandchildren Daryl, Jamie, Kevin and Ryan Marsh, Brian (Sharon)
Marsh, Becky (Dennis) Morales, Jessica Marsh, Valerie, Mry Therese
and Brianne Priesol, Steve (Terri) Priesol, Greg Marsh-Bulmer,
Timothy Marsh and Mallory Graziani, and greatgrandchildren,
Elizabeth, Victoria, and Dennis Morales. A brother, Jake Sine also
survives.
Note:
Bert served in the military during
WW11 and the
Korean Conflict.
|
Lloyd Jacob Urick, the son of Mary
Urick Barber and the late Lloyd Solomon Urick, was born in Paw
Paw, Mich., on
 April 19, 1955, and died at his home in Dexter
MO on
Wednesday, May 19, 2004, at the age of 49.
Mr. Urick was a former resident of Michigan and
had resided in Dexter the last nine years. He was a welder and had
served in the U.S.
Marines.
On April 8, 1999, he was married to Melissa
Diane Futch Moore at Bloomfield.
Surviving are his wife, Melissa Urick of Dexter;
two daughters, Ashley and Tina Urick, both of Michigan; his
mother, Mary Barber of Hartford, Mich.; three sisters, Vicky Davis
and Diane Cowgill, both of Hartford, Mich., and Nancy Urick of
Watersmeet, Mich.
Visitation will be held after 9 a.m. Friday, May
21, 2004, at Watkins & Sons Funeral Home in Dexter. Services will be conducted at10 a.m., with full
military honors at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Bloomfield on
Friday, May 21, 2004. Interment will follow in the Missouri Veterans
Cemetery in Bloomfield with Watkins & Sons Funeral Service of
Dexter in charge of arrangements.
|
|
Gordon D.
Robinson, 87, of Hartford died April 1, 2004, at the Lakeview
Continuing Care Center.
Gordon was born May 7,
1916, in Berlamont, Mich., the son of
Alfred and Linnie (Hampton) Robinson. He had been a self employed
farmer, owned Jays Donut House in Benton Harbor, and was a custodian
at Hartford Public Schools and the Panel Room in Hartford.
Gordon was preceded in death by his wife, Wilma in
1998, and his sister, Janette Stowe.
Surviving are two sons, David: (Stacy) Robinson of
Hartford. and Nathan (Angela) Robinson of Grand Junction; four
grandchildren - David Jr., Sarah, Melissa, and Amanda; his sister,
Evelyn Husek of Benton Harbor.
There will be no service. His body will be donated to
the University of Michigan Medical School.
NOTE: Gordon was a
1934 Hartford High School graduate.
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Bill Rhinehart,
71, of Bitely, Mich., formerly of Hartford, passed away Monday, Feb.
23, 2004, at Countryside Nursing Center, South Haven.
Bill was born Nov. 9, 1932, in Hartford, the son of
Victor and Mary (Jones) Rhinehart. He retired from Watervliet Paper
Mill. Bill also served his
country for three years in the U.S. Army.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and three
brothers, Jim, Bob and Jack; and a sister, Betty.
Survivors include: two daughters -- Susan (Alfred)
Button of Kismet, Kan., and Vickie (John) Loomis of Covert; son,
Scott Rhinehart of Guthrie, Okla.; six grandchildren; and five
great-grandchildren.
As per Bill's wishes, no services will be held and
cremation has taken place. Memorial contributions may be made to the
charity of the donor's choice. Friends wishing to sign the register
online, leave a message for the
family or share a story about Bill may do so at
www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family
Funeral Home of South Haven.
Note:
Click here to view Bills
military photo and profile on the History of Hartford website at
www.hartfordmichigan.com. Bill attend Hartford High
School.
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John Levi Wesaw Jr.,
72, of Hartford passed from his life on earth to eternity in heaven
on Sunday, Feb. 15, 2004, at his home.
Junior was born on Sept. 23, 1931, in Silver Creek Township, the son
of John and Julia (Alexis) Wesaw, both of whom preceded him in
passing. He was a graduate of Hartford High School, where he helped
his basketball team reach the state semi-finals. He retired from the
Watervliet Paper Mill, in 1990, after 20 years of employment.
He was an elder in the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians and he
served his country as an Army Corporal during the Korean Conflict.
The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. on
Wednesday, Feb. 18, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where a
prayer service will be held at 7 p.m. with Deacon Arthur Morsaw
conducting the service. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated
at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 19, at the Immaculate Conception
Catholic Church, Hartford, of which he was a member. Father German
Perez-Diaz will be the celebrant. Burial will be in Rush Lake Indian
Cemetery, Hartford, with military rites conducted by VFW Post 1137,
VFW Post 6803 and American Legion Post 362 and auxiliary. In lieu of
flowers, memorials may be made to the family.
Junior is survived by his four daughters -- Norma
Wesaw-Sprague, Julia Johnson, Loretta Wesaw, all of Hartford, and
Rhonda (Phil) Hansen of Kentwood. Also surviving are grandchildren
-- Levi, Tara, Judd, Felicia, Joe, Jackson and Nicole;
great-grandchildren, Danny, Andrea and Pedro; brother, Samuel Wesaw
of Hartford; a very special cousin, Jackie Genereaux of Watervliet;
and a special aunt, Ella; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces,
nephews and cousins.
Junior was preceded in death by a son, Francis Jay Wesaw, on
Nov. 21, 1990.
Note:
John was a
1951 Hartford
High School graduate.
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Lois
Lucille Day, 86, of
Hartford,
formerly of Watervliet, passed away on Sunday, February 8, 2004 at
Countryside Nursing Centre in South Haven.
Lois was born on April 13, 1917, in Lawton, Michigan,
the daughter of George and Alva (Wilson) Gibson, both of whom
precede her in passing. She was a member of the Watervliet First
United Methodist Church.
As to her wishes cremation has taken place and a
private family memorial service will take place at a later date.
Those wishing to make a memorial in her name may do so to the
Watervliet First United Methodist Church.
Lois is survived by her husband Carl whom she married
on October 5, 1947; a son, David (Sheila) Day of St. Joseph; a
daughter, Susan (Dennis) Martell of Douglas; two granddaughters,
Christen (Steve) Hopkins of Benton Harbor and Kelly (Mark) Gardner
of Grand Rapids, and two great-grand-daughters, Natalie and Rachel
of Benton Harbor.
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Betty Lou
Kuehnle, 85, of
Hartford
passed away on Sunday, February 8, 2004, at Community Hospital,
Watervliet.
Betty was born March 23, 1918, in Chicago, the daughter of Joseph
and Catherine (McKnight) Bingham. She was a loving wife and mother
who simply liked to cook and bake. Betty also worked for many years
in the family egg business in Chicago.
The family greeted friends on Tuesday, February 10, at
Calvin Funeral Home,
Hartford.
A service to honor her memory was held at
Hartford
United Methodist Church on Wednesday, February 11. The Rev. Ron
Hansen officiated. Burial followed in Maple Hill Cemetery,
Hartford.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Alzheimer's
Association.
Betty is survived by her husband, Robert Kuehnle Sr.,
whom she married on July 3, 1942; three sons, Rod (Jackie) Kuehnle
of Valparaiso, Indiana, James (Anne) Kuehnle of Elmhurst, Illinois,
and Robert (Lisa) Kuehnle of
Hartford;
nine grandchildren, Doug (Osena) Kuehnle, Valerie (Mike) Pearce,
James (Brooke) Kuehnle, Jill (Ryon) Hennessy, Regan (Tom) Cronin,
Patrick Kuehnle, Jason (Elizabeth) Kuehnle, Kurt (Oauna) Kuehnle and
Holly Kuehnle; 16 great-grandchildren, Jason, Olivia, Evan, Jimmy,
Jack, Callie, Alexandra, J.J., Caroline, Anne-Claire, Jilly, Tamsen,
Tommy, Regan, Alexie and Nicolas. Also surviving are two sisters,
Gloria Westlund of Chicago and Lorraine Kettman of Pallos Park,
Illinois; two sisters-in-law, Bertha Ann Flynn and Alice Kuehnle;
and numerous nieces and nephews; and a host of other family members.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents; and a
sister, Norma Lovelle.
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Robert
Venus Merrick, 84, of
Hartford
passed away on Friday, February 6, 2004, at the home of his
grandson, Gary.
Robert was born on August 10, 1919, in Sikeston, Missouri, the son
of David and Nancy (Cotton) Merrick. He retired from Auto
Specialties in 1981.
As to his wishes, cremation has taken place. There will
be a memorial service to honor his memory at 2 p.m. on Thursday,
February 12, at the Full Gospel Assembly Church,
Hartford.
Pastor John Criswell will officiate. Burial of ashes will be in
Maple Hill Cemetery,
Hartford.
Calvin Funeral Home,
Hartford,
is assisting the family.
Robert is survived by a daughter, Judy Stoddard of
Lancaster, Kentucky; brother, Arthur (Virginia) Merrick;
stepchildren, Gary (Bonnie) Ackerman of
Hartford,
John (Mary) Ackerman of Lawrence, Don (Susan) Weckwerth of Eau
Claire, Carol (Raymond) Shubinski of East Point, Kentucky;
grandchildren, Gary (Tammy) Ackerman, Jeanne (Bill) Thornton, Kim
(Chris) Oldham, Steve Ackerman, Bill Irman, Tom Ackerman, Travis
(Chris) Johnson, Bria.
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Lucille
McClain, 82, of
Hartford
died February 4, 2004, at Lakeland Hospital, St. Joseph.
Mrs. McClain was born March 31, 1921, in Lula, Mississippi, to the
union of Dennis McDowell and Indor (Martin) McDowell. She was a
loving wife, mother and homemaker and was a member of First Baptist
Church, Covert, for 42 years.
Funeral services were held at noon Saturday at First
Baptist Church in Covert, where visitation began at 11 a.m.
Saturday. Burial is in Lawrence Hill Cemetery. Robbins Brothers
Funeral Home, Benton Harbor, is in charge of arrangements.
Survivors include: her husband, the Rev. Sherman
McClain of
Hartford; sons, Sherman (Nora) McClain Jr. of New York, and
Bobby McClain of South Haven; daughter, Eunice Yvonne Orr of St.
Lucia, Florida; 22 grandchildren; 88 great-grandchildren; 16
great-great-grandchildren; sister, Edith McClain of Chicago;
brother-in-law, Davis (Beverly) McClain of Markham, Illinois;
sisters-in-law, Martha Montgomery of Blue Island, Illinois, Mary
(Joe) Crafton of Collinville, Mississippi, Eula Mae (Willie) Tangle
of Newton, Mississippi, and Lucille McClain of Union, Mississippi.
She was preceded in death by her mother and father; and
three brothers.
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Randy Lee Edmonds
of New Blain, Ark., formerly of Hartford, passed away unexpectedly
in Somerville, Tenn., on Jan. 30, 2004.
Born Dec. 17,1955, in Watervliet to George and Jean (Stuckum)
Edmonds. Randy attended
Hartford Public Schools and had been employed as a truck
driver for the last 30 years for various companies.
Randy enjoyed calling his family to share his many
experiences along the road. He loved hunting and fishing and was
anxiously anticipating returning to Michigan to share these
activities with his beloved father, George.
God created Randy large in stature to encompass his
huge heart. His greatest pleasure was helping others and he freely
offered anything he possessed. To Randy, there were no strangers,
only friends he had not yet met. His smile and laughter will always
be remembered.
Cremation has taken place and a memorial service to
celebrate Randy' life will be scheduled at a later date.
Randy is survived by his father,
George Edmonds;
sister, Cathy (Pedro) Ontiveros; stepbrother, David (Norma) Bulat;
and step sister, Linda (Mark) OIds, all of Hartford; a stepsister,
Sheryl (Steve) Ferguson of Lawton; and numerous nieces and nephews;
and a large group of friends that were family in Randy's heart.
Randy was preceded in death by his mother, Jean; stepmother
Betty;
one sister and four brothers.
Randy's passing leaves a huge void in our lives that no
one will ever fill, but his life has left us with memories that will
always make us smile. Surely he is again on a Harley, seeking new
friends.
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Lois M. (Phillips)
Klimach, 81, of Sodus, went to be with the Lord on
Thursday, Jan. 15, 2004, at the South Haven
 Health
Care Centre, South Haven.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan.
20, at the Benton Heights Church of God, Benton Harbor, with the
Rev. Wayne Bell officiating. Burial will follow at the Lincoln
Township Cemetery, Stevensville. Visitation is Monday, Jan. 19, from
5 to 8 at the Davidson chapel of Florin Funeral Service, Coloma.
Memorial may be made to South Haven Hospice at Home or Berrien
County Cancer Society, c/o Davidson Chapel, Coloma.
Lois was born on Feb. 7, 1922, in Benton Harbor to Earl
and Vida (Roberts) Dodd. She
graduated from Hartford High School in
1940. Lois married
Roland Francis Phillips on March 21, 1942, at the Keeler United
Methodist Church; it was the first and perhaps the only double
wedding performed at the church. Roland died on Feb. 8, 1979. Lois
married Martin W Klimach on Feb. 9, 1984, in St. Joseph. She retired
from Mercy Hospital, Benton Harbor. with 27 years of service. Lois
was a very loving and caring wife, mother, and grandmother who will
be dearly missed.
Lois is survived by two sons
Robert (Sharon) Phillips of Grand Rapids and
Michael (Marlene) Phillips of Cedarburg, Wis.; one daughter, Carol
(Jay) Myers of Soddus; six stepchildren; one sister, Marjery
Churchill of Yuma, Ariz.; two sisters-in-law, Eleanore Dodd of South
Haven, and Madeline Miller of Watervliet; six grandchildren; six
step grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; several nieces and
nephews.
Lois was preceded in death by her parents; first
husband, Roland; second husband, Martin, on Nov. 23, 1999; brother,
Robert Dodd, and sister, Olive Dodd.
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Ruth Mildred Haney, 88, of
Lawrence passed from her life on earth to eternity in heaven on
Monday, Jan. 12, 2004, at LakeView Continuing Care Center, Lawton.
Ruth was born
Jan. 18, 1915, in Hartford, the daughter of Clyde and Fae
(Butcher) Hammond. She was a member of the Immaculate Conception
Catholic Church. Ruth loved to do craft work, crocheting, traveling,
and especially loved her grandkids.
The family will greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday,
Jan. 16, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. Mass of Christian Burial
will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, at Immaculate
Conception Catholic Church, Hartford, with Father German Perez-Diaz
as the celebrant. Burial will be in Southard (Smiley) Cemetery,
Bangor Township.
Ruth is survived by a son, LeRoy (Dianne) Haney of
Lawrence; granddaughter, Dawn (Steve) Brady of Lawrence; three
grandsons -- David (Deborah) Haney and Robert (Cindy) Haney, both of
North Carolina, and James (Nancy) Haney of Georgia; 10
great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; a brother,
Clyde Hammond of Hartford; and two sisters, Myrtil DeHority of
Indiana and Florine Traver of Hartford.
Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Louis Haney,
on Jan. 4, 1992; her parents; and six brothers, Chancy Hammond,
Vance Hammond, Ralph Hammond, Harold Hammond, Tharold Hammond and
Roger Hammond.
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Mildred Chambers, 86, of
Hartford passed away Friday, Jan. 9, 2004 at Watervliet Community
Hospital.
She was born January 29, 1917 in Hornersville, MO. the
daughter of Ruth (Helton) Stone and Robert Lee Stone. She
married Oscar B. Chambers Sept. 27, 1942, in Missouri and they moved
to Michigan.
She is survived by three children - Verna Sue Tucker of
Auburndale, Fla., Kenneth D. Chambers of Hartford, Paula A. Pool of
Colorna; grandchildren - Sherrie Tucker of Florida, Brenda Clugston
and James A. Tucker of Oklahoma, Corey (Kim) Chambers of Riverside,
Benjamin (Kim) Chambers and Andrew Chambers both of Hartford.
Great-grandchildren Rashonda, Megan and Mike Clugston of Oklahoma,
Cassie and Heath Smith of Florida, MiKenzie Chambers and Casidy
Wilson of Hartford; sister-in-law, Josephine Stone of Hartford and
her faithful companions Rosco and Patch.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Oscar in
1986; a son, Russell; her parents; a brother, Marvin "Stoney" Stone;
a sister, Olean Dean; and a son-in-law; John Pool.
She was formerly employed at Giffords Wreath Factory in
Hartford; at Duffy Motts in Hartford from opening until the plant
closed, and retired from Nylon Extruders, formerly of Lawrence.
Her greatest job was that of wife, mother, and grandma.
She was the anchor that held us steady through many storms. Her home
was always open and she was "grannie" to many. She will be
remembered always as a woman of great strength and courage and
capacity to love; She was always there with good food, advice,
encouragement, and love. She leaves a hole in our lives that can
never be filled, but leaves us with memories and special times we
will never forget. She is safe and secure now.
The family Will greet friends on Monday, Jan. 12 from 6
to 8 p.m. at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. A service to honor
her memory will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 13 at the
funeral home. Pastor John Bird will officiate. Burial will be in
Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Memorials may be made to the American
Lung Association.
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