Obituaries from Hartford Michigan

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Please email the webmaster if you have obituaries of people who 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, also 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 (or learn of the passing away of someone who lived in Hartford at one time) of a former Hartford resident from a newspaper away from the Hartford area, please send it. Past obituaries will be added as time permits. Death notices are also posted in the HHS graduate database.
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Roy L. Moore, 71, of Hartford, died Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph.
     Roy’s life began Aug. 26, 1940, in Dowagiac. Roy proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He was retired from Arnt Asphalt. When he wasn’t working, Roy enjoyed working in his yard, fishing, and playing the piano. His greatest enjoyment came in spending time with his friends and loving family which includes his wife, Shelby Moore; eight children – Roy Moore Jr., Lee Moore, Scott (Laurie) Moore, Roberta (Jim) Ellison, Edward Stump, Jim Stump, Brian Stump and Shelley Stump (Jerry Sayre); 15 grandchildren; 10 greatgrandchildren; a brother, Larry (Carolyn) Moore; two sisters, Joanne (Jack) Beers and Betty Moore; a half-sister, Louise Taylor; many nieces, nephews and cousins; and his buddy, Snoopy.
     His parents and six half brothers – Bill, George, Vick, LeRoy, Bob and Chet, precede Roy in death.
     According to Roy’s wishes, cremation has taken place. His family will gather with friends for visitation on Monday, Jan. 2, from 5 to 8 p.m., at Hutchins Funeral Home, where funeral services will be celebrated Tuesday, Jan. 3, at 2 p.m. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Watervliet.

Norma Jean Kolberg, 78, of Hartford passed away on Thursday, Dec. 29, 2011, at her home.
Norma Jean Kolbert d 12-29-2011

     Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012, at Pike Funeral Home, Boyd Chapel, 9191 Red Arrow Hwy., Bridgman, with the Rev. David Schaller officiating. Burial will be in New Troy Cemetery, New Troy. Friends may meet with the family Tuesday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be given to Redeemer Lutheran Church, Sister Lakes. Share a memory with the family at www.PikeFH.com.
     Norma Jean was born Sept. 24, 1933, in East Chicago, Ind., the daughter of the late William Robert and Nevada (Davis) Darnell. On July 22, 1954, she married Leonard A. Kolberg. Norma Jean worked at Bendix in South Bend for 30 years while living on the family owned dairy farm in Hartford.
     Survivors include her husband of over 57 years, Leonard; her children – Vicki (Robert) Sloan of Watervliet, Debra O’Neal of Hartford, Leonard (Rita) Kolberg Jr. of Bangor, Ann (Brian) Larsen of Hagar Shores and Jimmy (Lisa) Kolberg of Lawrence; 15 grandchildren; eight greatgrandchildren; and a sister, Joan Keefer of Buchanan.
     Norma Jean was also preceded in death by a son-in-law, Rick O’Neal; an infant granddaughter; a great-granddaughter; and a brother, Bobby Darnell.

Mary Sue Cheatham Thornburg, 84, of Hartford passed into her Heavenly Father’s arms Tuesday, December 27, 2011 at the home of her daughter as her family helped with her passing.
      Mary was born July 6, 1927 in Leachville, Arkansas to Lola Cheatham and James Allen Beard. She was raised by her grandparents, Ed and Emma Stephens Cheatham.
      Mary is survived by her husband of 67 years, George Washington Thornburg, who lives in Hartford. She is also survived by her children, George E. (Marilyn) Thornburg of Kalamazoo MI, Emma (Ron) Sefcik of Hartford MI, Janet (Garry) Melvin of Lawrence MI. Her beloved grandchildren, Jason (Julie) Sefcik of Aurora CO, Dana (John) Liceaga of Shelbyville MI, David (Jen) Thornburg of McCordsville IN, Ken Sefcik of Hartford, Christopher (Sarah) Thornburg of Galesburg MI, and Brandon (Dawn) Melvin of Hartford. She is also survived by her precious great-granddaughters Olivia, Mia, Ava Liceaga, Allyn Edgar, and great-grandson Dylan Thornburg, and a very special cousin, Bernice Madison (Robert) Lightner of Hartford, who Mary loved as a daughter, and their children Bobby (Sarah) Lightner of Lexington Park MD, Rebecca (Steve) Bintz of Saline MI, and Brian Lightner of Hartford.
       She was preceded in death by her grandparents, parents, and half sister, Melba Allen Rhinehart, as well as her aunt, Lillie Cheatham Madison.
       Mary was a faithful member of the Hartford Federated Church since her own children were babies. She made sure they attended church and knew about the saving grace of the Lord Jesus. After 31 years of faithful service, she retired from the Nursery & Cradle Room and then headed the Federated Church social committee and assisted many, many families with funeral, annual meeting, and wedding dinners. While raising her children, she also worked at the former Gifford Wreath Factory, as a meat wrapper at Tim’s Supermarket, and retired from Bi-Low Supermarket in So. Haven. She served her beloved Hartford faithfully on the Hartford City Council for several years, Hartford Business Association, Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce, and was the City Library Board representative. She served the City of Hartford Election Committee for several years. Mary started the Hartford Beautification Committee and made beautiful pine cone wreaths for the Main Street lights and above the old City Hall entry way. Service was so important to her and, for this, she received the Lions Club 2010 Grant Hitchcock Lifetime Achievement Award.
       Visitation for Mary will be held from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Friday, December 30, 2011 at Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford. The funeral service for Mary will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 31, 2011 at the funeral home. Pastor David Gilbert, Hartford Federated Church, will officiate. A luncheon will be served for family and friends at the Hartford United Methodist Church after the service. Memorials may be made in Mary’s memory to the Hartford Federated Church kitchen committee, Hartford Strawberry Festival, or to the Hartford Public Library

NOTE: Mary would have been Valedictorian for her class of 1945 in Arkansas. At age 17, George, the love of her life was coming to Michigan and she wanted to be with him, so she quit school. In 1982, Mary completed the Adult Education requirements and received her diploma at Hartford High School.
Click here to learn more about Mary in a special tribute written by her daughter, Emma.

I Thessalonians 4:16-17 - The Lord himself shall descend from heaven, with a shout, and the voice of an arch angel, and with the trump of God; and the dead in Christ shall be raised first; then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them to meet the Lord in the air.

Michael C. Brown, 81, of Hartford died Friday, Dec. 23, 2011, at the Lakeland Specialty Hospital in Berrien Center.
     Family services will be held at a later date, and cremation has taken place. Arrangements are by the Davidson Chapel of Florin Funeral Service in Coloma.
     Michael was born on Sept. 4, 1930, in Chicago to Chester and Mary Brown. His wife, Donna, preceded him in death July 25, 2005. He was a truck driver for Consolidated Freightways for 49 years.
     He is survived by his children, JoAnn Kline of Loveland, Colo., Michael Brown of Oswego, Ill., and William Brown of Kansas City, Mo.; his sisters, Marlene Farraro of Crestwood, Ill., and Mary Ellen Boyle of Crestwood; and his brother, James Brown of Tinley Park, Ill.

Mabel Elizabeth Ekstrom, 88, of Hartford went to be with the Lord on Dec. 23, 2011, at Royalton Manor in St. Joseph.
Mabel Ekstrom d 12-23-2011

     A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 21, at the Hartford Federated Church of which she was a member and helped in the toddler department for about 30 years. She truly enjoyed being with the children.
     Mabel was born on July 9, 1923, in Hartford to Hiram and Agnes (Tuttle) Smith. Mabel worked at several places over the years to help support her family. She was formerly employed at Auto Specialties, DuWels and the Van Buren State Bank, all in Hartford.
     Mabel is survived by her children, Neil (Carol) Schaus and Sherry Leonard, both of Lawrence, and Vickie (Ross) Efting of Bangor; six grandchildren, Laura (Michael) Mullins of San Diego, Calif., Tony (Melina) Leonard of Mattawan, Abby Leonard of Kalamazoo, Billy Leonard of Lawrence, Steve (Penny) Efting and Greg Efting, both of Bangor; four greatgrandchildren, Shana, Mark, Ben and Dan Efting; and a brother, Virgil Smith of Hartford.
     Mabel was preceded in passing by her husband, Daniel L. Ekstrom Jr. on June 5, 2007, a brother, Vern Smith on June 14, 1999, a son-in-law, Richard Leonard on Jan. 8, 2009, a granddaughter, Erin Schaus on May 26, 2010, and her parents.
     Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford has been entrusted with the arrangements.

NOTE: Mabel was a 1940 Hartford High School graduate.

Thurman Peninger d 12-19-2011 Thurman G. Peninger, age 76, of Bushnell, Florida, passed away December 19, 2011 at the Lane Purcell Hospice House in Sumterville, FL. Born on February 14, 1935 in McCoy, Arkansas to Ralph and Rowena (Hedden) Peninger.
     Thurman moved to Bushnell 30 years ago from Hartford, MI. He was a retired Truck Driver, an Air Force Veteran of the Korean War and he was a member of the Deliverance Gospel Temple in Bushnell, FL.
     Survived by his wife, Claudia H. Peninger of Bushnell, FL; four children, Troy and Holly Peninger of Bushnell, FL, Tony and Dennette Peninger of Winter Haven, FL, Doug Peninger of Bushnell, FL and Jeffery Todd Peninger, of Los Angeles, CA; two sisters, Debra Fetke of Auburndale, FL and Donna Watson of Arlington, TX; one brother Richard Peninger of Lawrence, MI; ten grandchildren; nine great grandchildren.
     Private cremation will take place under the direction of Brown Funeral Home and Crematory in Lecanto, FL. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 23, 2011 at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL.

Note: Thurman attended school in Hartford until about 1952 when he left school to join the Air Force.

Wesley Haney d 12/18/2011 Wesley Adam Haney, 31, of Hartford passed away suddenly Sunday, Dec. 18, 2011, in Kalamazoo.
     Wesley was born Jan. 31, 1980, in Paw Paw, the son of Donald and Barbara Sue (White) Haney. He was formerly employed with the Hartford Council for Recreation, the Hartford Public School District and E&S Enterprises. He enjoyed spending time with his family hunting, fishing and camping. He especially loved teasing his little brother, Tim. He was known by most as “Elvis.”
     Wesley is survived by his parents, Donald and Barbara; two brothers, Donald (Angie) Haney and Tim Haney; two nieces, Tasha and Alisha Haney; grandmother, Jacquelyn “Jacqui” Cazares; uncle, Tim (Jeronda Risenhoover) White, all of Hartford; uncle, Tom (Ina) White of Judsonia, Ark.; and aunts, Pat Provost of South Haven, Marilou Haney of California and Bobbie (Roger) Provost of South Haven.
     The family will welcome friends from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 26, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where the service to honor his memory will commence at noon. Pastor Richard Sing of the Twelve Corners Community Church, Benton Heights, will officiate. Burial will follow in Fairview Memorial Cemetery, Watervliet. Memorial donations in Wesley’s name may be made to the family.

NOTE: Wesley was a 1999 Hartford High School graduate.

Richard “Red” Anthony Chernugel, 82, of Hartford, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 8, 2011, at Tendercare of Westwood in Kalamazoo.
     Red, as he was known by most everyone, was born Sept. 3, 1929, in Chicago, Ill., the son of Anton and Mary (Starcevich) Chernugel, both of whom preceded him in passing. He was also preceded in passing by a sister, Marianne Rosenburg.
     Richard is survived by his wife, Candace, whom he married on Oct. 9, 1980; his five children – Denise (Steve) Bellagamba of Bradenton, Fla., Richard (Lynn) Chernugel of Grangeville, Idaho, Russell (Mollie) Chernugel of Hartford, Maribeth Brinton of Bradenton and Mark Chernugel of Dowagiac; two stepdaughters, Krystal and Kelly; nine grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; and a sister, Judith (Arthur) Loomis of Hartford.
     Richard worked at Watervliet Paper Mill for many years and then was employed at Hartford Public Schools as a custodian for 20 years. He loved all outdoor activities, especially those times spent with his wife and family. He enjoyed farming, hunting, fishing and bowling.
    The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to noon on Tuesday, Dec. 13, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, at which time the service to honor his memory will commence. Pastor Wayne Davis of His Place Cathedral of Faith, Covert, will officiate. As to Red’s wishes, cremation will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donation in Red’s memory be made to Hartford Public Schools.

NOTE: Richard was a 1947 Hartford High School graduate.

Velma Elizabeth Hawks, 92, of Bellevue [Michigan], died December 8, 2011 at Bronson, Battle Creek. She was born March 18, 1919, the daughter of L. J. and Minnie (Matz) Humes in Hartford, Michigan.
     Velma was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Lloyd C. Hawks in 1994; her parents, three brothers and one sister. She is survived by her son, L. Richard (Dana) Hawks of Grand Ledge; her daughter, Phyllis (Gilbert) Knight of Shelby Township; four grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.
     Velma attended West Carmel Congregational Church and was a member of the Church Circle. She enjoyed playing cards and doing needlework. She lived in Bellevue since 1981 after living in Benton Harbor for many years.
     The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 13, 2011 at Shaw Funeral Home, Battle Creek. A committal service with Pastor Darwin Kuhl will follow at Memorial Park Mausoleum, Battle Creek. Memorials may go to West Carmel Congregational Church. The family is being served by Shaw Funeral Home, Battle Creek.

NOTE: Velma was a 1937 Hartford High School graduate.

Ruby W. Page, 73, of Hartford passed away on Saturday, Nov. 19, 2011 at her home.
     Ruby was born June 6, 1938, in Sulphur Bluff, Texas, the daughter of Louie and Vera (Cannaday) Wilson, both of whom preceded her in passing. She was also preceded in passing by her husband, James Page and two sisters.
     Ruby retired from GTE after many years of faithful service. Ruby was a former member of the Keeler Church of God, but most recently attended the Hartford Church of God. She was an avid fisherman and enjoyed raising all kinds of flowers.
     Ruby is survived by two sons, Dennis Clayton of Hartford and Eddy Clayton; three daughters, Sandra (Willard) Mayville of Riverside, Calif., Debby Owens and Linda Barber, both of Hartford; 13 grandchildren, Derrick, Robert, Jennifer, Lisa, Cristena, Shawn, Tabatha, Annette, Dana, Shawn, Matt, Chuck and Bonnie; numerous great-grandchildren; and a brother, James “Buddy” Wilson of Hartford.
     The family will receive friends from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 23, at the Hartford Church of God, at which time, the service to honor her memory will commence. Pastor Eric Jackson will officiate. Ruby will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford following the service. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford with the arrangements.

Harold (Hal) Wayne Snellgrose, 73, of Dowagiac passed away on Monday, Nov. 14, 2011, at his home after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born Harold Snellgrose d 11-14-2011

June 8, 1938, in Hartford, the son of Coy and Naomi Ruth (Rucks) Snellgrose.
     Harold was a member of the Board of Realtors and sold real estate for CW & Associates in Paw Paw. He previously sold real estate for Century 21 Crosstown in Paw Paw.
     Harold was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, James W. Smith.
     Surviving are his wife of 49 years, Diane (Hoger) Snellgrose; three sons, Jeffrey Nisbet and Timothy Snellgrose, both of Naples, Fla., Harold Snellgrose II of Carmel, Calif.; and one daughter, Jill (Snellgrose) Mullins of Dowagiac; three sisters, Emily Horton of Inverness, Fla., Trena Chamness of Spring Hill, Fla., Mary Ann Masterson of Key West, Fla.; one brother, Donald Snellgrose of Joplin, Mo.; one brother-in-law, David Hoger of Dowagiac; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two aunts; nieces; nephews; cousins and countless friends spanning from coast to coast.
     Harold was a 1956 graduate of Lawton High School in Lawton, Mich., but is an honorary alumni of Paw Paw High School. After graduation, he enlisted in the Marine Corps. In 1962 he married Diane and they resided in Paw Paw. A meat cutter by trade, in 1969 he decided to pursue a career in real estate, and they moved to Middleville, Mich. In 1974, the family migrated to Naples, Fla., and he went to work for the U.S. Postal Service; 22 years later, Harold, Diane and family retired back to Paw Paw and eventually back to the post office, meat cutting and of course to real estate.
     Harold enjoyed life. His hobbies included cars, golf, bowling, fishing and most of all, church. He was an active member of the First Pentecostal Church of Edwardsburg, where he was "adopted" as a father, brother and grandfather. He truly felt part of the family there.
     Visitation will be at Adams Funeral Home in Paw Paw, from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 18. Funeral services officiated by Pastor Robert L. Geans Sr. will be held Saturday, Nov. 19, at 11 a.m. with visitation from 10 to 11 a.m. at the First Pentecostal Church, 27341 US12 West, Edwardsburg, MI 49112, with a luncheon to follow.
     In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either Hospice At Home of St. Joseph, Mich., or the First Pentecostal Church Building Fund of Edwardsburg.

James Phillips d 11-8-2011 James Edward Phillips Sr. of Hartford passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2011, at Bronson Nursing and Rehab Center in Lawton. He was 81 years old.
     “Jim” was born on Feb. 16, 1930, in Arkansas, moved to Michigan at an early age, served proudly in the U.S. Navy, and worked as a millwright at Watervliet Paper Co. from 1951 until a few years before it closed in the mid-1990s. He was an avid golfer, hunter and fisherman, and he loved baseball and football. He was loved by all who knew him, he was a strong family man, and he will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
     He is survived by his wife of more than 60 years, “Jean” Phillips, and their six children, James Jr., Ronald, Deborah, John, Denise and Wendy; his sister, Bertha White from Dowagiac, and his brother, Howard Phillips from California. He was “grandpa” to 19 grandchildren, and “great-grandpa” to 13 great-grandchildren.
     The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 11, at Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 12, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. A graveside service will follow at Maple Hill Cemetery with full military rites. A reception will be held at the church following the graveside service. In lieu of flowers, memorials in James’ name may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.
     Flowers or memorials may be sent to Calvin Funeral Home, 8 E. Main St., Hartford, MI 49057.

Winnifred Martin Welty d 11-3-2011 Welty, Winnifred "Wendy" Martin, 63, of St. Cloud, FL, peacefully went to be with the Lord on Nov. 3, 2011. She was born 9/13/48 in Watervliet, MI, and raised in Hartford, MI.
     Wendy was married to David E. Welty for 43 years. She has one daughter, Michelle L. Brooks and 2 grandchildren, Kailey and Allie Brooks. Wendy was the daughter of Lovell H. Martin (deceased) and Melissa (Bushee) Martin (deceased). She is survived by step-mother, Carolyn Martin and, one sister, Betty (Martin) Martin, one brother, Charles (Debra) Martin, also several nieces and nephews.
     She enjoyed her family and friends foremost and had a wonderful since of humor. She loved cooking, gardening, home decorating, reading, and learning new things. She had a kind heart, genuinely loved people and doing things for others. Throughout her working years, she was employed by Humana Hospital and Orlando Regional Hospital; mowed lawns and did landscaping.
     A celebration of life service will be held at the VFW Post #3227, St. Cloud, at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 6. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to Cornerstone Hospice of Orlando, 8009 S. Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32809.

NOTE: Winnie was from the 1966 graduating class of Hartford High School. The family moved in 1965 from Hartford to Fennville MI.

Loretta Marie Poker, of Dowagiac, formerly of Hartford, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, Oct. 29, 2011, at The Timbers of Cass County, Dowagiac.
     Loretta was born June 29, 1924, in Chicago, the daughter of Frank and Victoria (Biedak) Szewczyk, both of whom preceded her in passing. She was also preceded in passing by two brothers, Eddie and Chet Szewczyk.
     Loretta owned and operated the former Texaco Station in Hartford and the Panel Room Restaurant, also in Hartford. She worked in the pediatric ward at Watervliet Community Hospital, DeJanco’s Restaurant in Paw Paw and the Lakes Bowl in Sister Lakes for more than 20 years, as well as working at Goldblatt’s in Benton Harbor. Loretta was a member of the Mother’s Club and the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Hartford.
     Loretta was extremely proud of her family, which consists of her daughter, Chris (Rocky) Gulliver, grandsons, Danny (Robin) Gulliver and David Gulliver, a granddaughter, Victoria Grote, all of Sister Lakes, great-grandchildren, Erika, Amelia, Gwen and Erich. She is also survived by a great-great-granddaughter, Rachel, a stepgreat-greatgranddaughter, Paige, a sister, MaryAnn (Bill) Bullard of Grand Blanc, and several nieces, nephews and other family members.
     The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. with a Rosary at 8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 2, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The Mass of Christian Burial to honor Loretta’s memory will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 3, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Hartford, with Father Fabio Garzon as the celebrant. Loretta will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. The family has requested memorials in Loretta’s name be made to Great Lakes Caring Hospice, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Lovone Curl, 72, of Hartford, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 27, 2011, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph.
     Lovone was born Nov. 15, 1938, in Bradford, Ark., the son of Joseph and Gertrude (Dorse) Curl, both of whom precede him in passing. He was also preceded in passing by: a daughter, Bonnie Glisson; a great grandson, Wyhatt Murphy; a sister, Elizabeth Woods; and two brothers, Raymond Curl and Eddie Curl.
     Lovone was a faithful employee for DuWel in Hartford for thirteen years. Even though in the last few years he had to spend his time in a wheel chair, he was able to drive and spend precious time with his family which consists of: two daughters, Wanda Curl of Coloma and Rebecca Curl of Covert; three sons, Don Curl of Tennessee, David Curl of Hartford, and Michael Curl of Tennessee. Lovone also cherished: his nineteen grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; a brother; Lester (Sue) Curl of Arkansas; and his three sisters; Pauline Curl and Ruby Stone, both of Arkansas; and Marge Curl of Texas.
     The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to noon Tuesday, Nov. 1, at the Keeler Church of God. The service to honor his memory will commence at noon with Pastor Boyd Saylor officiating. Following the service, Lovone will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Those wishing to make a memorial in Lovone’s name made do so to the family. The Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford has been entrusted with handling the arrangements.

Arys Beauton Shockey (Rice), 81, of Hartford passed away on Thursday, Oct. 20, 2011, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph, surrounded by her adoring family.
     Arys was born on May 6, 1930, to Raymond and Josephine (Brooks) Almy in Lakeview, Mich. She was preceded in passing by her husband, Claude and her sons, Scott and Terry Rice.
     Arys is survived by a son, Douglas Shockey, and a daughter, Jacqueline (Michael) Johnson, both of Hartford; as well as her grandchildren – John Fleeman, Laura Sinclair, Jolynn Johnson, Michael Johnson, Trena Rice, Scott Rice Jr., Jessica Michael, Michelle West, Kim Ryan, Tiffany Allmon and Shawn Rice; 31 great-grandchildren; and three great-great grandchildren. Arys was considered a grandmother to many others in the community that loved her as their own.
     An avid sports fan, Arys spent several years on the Hartford Council for Recreation and was a fixture at the ball fields. She enjoyed watching the Detroit Lions and Tigers on TV, but took the most pleasure at attending the sporting events of her grandchildren. You could find Arys on 90-degree days or in sleet and rain to watch her grandchildren’s games.
     The family will receive friends from 3 to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 25, at Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford. The service to honor Arys’ memory will commence at 4 p.m. on Oct. 25 with Pastor Eric Jackson of the Hartford Church of God officiating. As per Arys’ wishes, cremation will follow and her ashes will be inurned at Maple Hill Cemetery in Hartford. Memorials in Arys’ honor can be made to Calvin Funeral Home.

Tod Efting passed away Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2011, at home with his family at his side after a courageous battle with cancer.
     Tod was born June 8, 1940, in Roseland, Ill. He moved to Bangor at the age of 4. He graduated from Bangor High School in 1959 and was a member of the 1959 State Champion football team. He married his wife of 24 years, Linda, on Jan. 9, 1987. He was a member of the Hartford Fire Department and an EMT for 18 years. He established many businesses over the years, most recently Tod Efting Construction and Applewood Mobile Home Estates. He held the office of Hartford city treasurer for a few years. He loved to winter in Florida, fishing the oceans, along with sailing and skiing throughout Europe. He spent much of his time working hard and being with his family and friends.
     Tod was known for his generosity and willingness to teach others. He was a big fan of his grandchildren and cheered them on at their many sporting events. He looked forward to his trips to the coffee shop with his many friends, where he will be greatly missed.
     He is survived by his wife and best friend, Linda; her children, whom he thought of as his own, Lynette (Larry) Earls-Berger of Hartford, Bobby (Sue) Smith of Paw Paw and Janellen (Gregory) Rausch of Buchanan; his sons, Eric Efting and Chris Efting, both of Hartford; his beloved grandchildren, Phillip, Jessica, Bryan, Heather, Alyssa, Matthew, Elizabeth and William (Amy) Efting and their very special great-grandchild to be; brothers, Jay (Alice) Efting of Baldwin, Mich., Ross (Vickie) Efting of Bangor; and numerous special nieces, nephews and friends; special friends, Tim Mattimore, Rich Cipri, Dale Childs and Bob Moore; and his beloved cats, Joey and Lila.
     He was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and Wilverd Efting, and a brother, Danny, along with his beloved dog, Freckles.
     Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at Hartford United Methodist Church. Burial will take place at Maple Hill Cemetery following services. Memorial contributions may be made to Hartford Fire Department or Hospice of Southwest Michigan.

Lester “Les” Tuberville, 80, of Lake Panasoffkee, Fla., formerly of Lawrence and Hartford, passed away Sunday, Oct. 9, 2011, at Leesburg Regional Medical Center in Leesburg, Fla. He was born May 19, 1931, in Hickory Flats, Miss.
     Les retired from Holland Motors in Holland, Mich., after 20 years of employment. He enjoyed his career as a truck driver and made lifetime friendships. After retiring, Les made his home and many new friends in Florida. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Lawrence. Les never met a stranger and had “buddies” from the North to the South. Les and his brother Paul spent many happy retirement hours working together in Les’ backyard repairing lawn mowers, and it became a gathering place where all were welcome.
     Les was loved by many and will be dearly missed. He was a good man.
     He is survived by his daughters, Susan Knight and Julie (Stephen) Scheid; grandchildren, Scott Prouty of Carrboro, N.C., Chad Prouty of Benton Harbor, Eric Prouty of Kalamazoo and Zachary Scheid of St. Joseph; great-grandchild, Ellie Hogan of Carrboro, N.C.; brother, Paul (Louise) Tuberville of Lake Panasoffkee; and nephews, Michael Tuberville and David (Teresa) Tuberville of Lake Panasoffkee.
     He was preceded in death by both parents, Thomas Tuberville and Claudia Tuberville Luster; his wife, Estella Christine Tuberville; and son, Victor Tuberville.
     Family and friends will gather at the Purcell Funeral Home in Bushnell, Fla., on Wednesday, Nov. 23, from 10 to 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Rising Sun Lodge Number 119, 110 West St. Joseph Street, Lawrence, MI 49064. Online condolences may be left at www.purcellfuneralhome. com. Per his request, Les was cremated and he will return home to Michigan to be placed next to his wife in the Keeler Cemetery in Keeler, Mich. Arrangements to be announced at a later date.

Ralph Burlison Brown, 66, of Hartford Township passed away Friday, Oct. 7, 2011, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph.
     Ralph was born Jan. 19, 1945, in West Point, Miss., the son of Delbert and Mildred (Tyler) Brown, both of whom precede him in passing. Ralph is also preceded by a son; Jimmy Brown, two brothers; Mike and Hoyle Tyler and three sisters; Myra Starrett and Sheila and Fay Brown.
     Ralph is survived by his children; Peggy Brown, Tammy Brown, Ralph Junior Brown and Stephen Brown, six grandchildren, four great grandchildren, and two sisters; Sandra (Ernie) Pitts-Glasgow and Deborah Tyler.
     Family and friends will gather at 11:30 a.m. for a graveside service to honor Ralph’s memory at noon on Wednesday at Keeler Cemetery. The Rev. Eugene French will officiate. Those wishing to make a memorial may do so with Sandra. Calvin Funeral Home, 8 E. Main St., Hartford is assisting the family.

John Brissaud Jr. of Flushing, age 82, died Wednesday, October 5, 2011 at McLaren Regional Medical Center. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, October 8, 2011 at the Flushing United Methodist Church. Rev. Jeff Jaggers will officiate. Burial will follow at the Flushing Cemetery. Visitation will be 10 a.m. until time of the service Saturday at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Flushing Community Schools Athletic Department.
John was born in Forrest Park, IL on January 19, 1929, the son of John and Mary (Ravel) Brissaud. He married Loretta J. Darling in Rochester, MI on February 9, 1952. John was a graduate of [1947] Hartford High School and Western Michigan University. He received his Post Graduate Degree from Michigan State University and Eastern Michigan University. He was a former member of the Genesee County Principal Association of Michigan, the Secondary Principal Association, Big "9" Athletic Conference, Flushing Lions Club, and the Flushing United Methodist Church Pastor Parish Committee. He was also a former member of the Flushing Board of Education and had served as a Trustee, Secretary, and President.
John is survived by: his wife, Loretta; daughter, Ruth Ann and husband Christopher Gunther of Flushing; two grandchildren, Jeffrey and wife Jamie Jozwiak, Jennifer and husband Jeffery Fuller; four great-grandchildren, Marin, Ella, Chloey, Casey; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother.

John Jacob Wagner, 85, of Keeler passed away Sunday, Oct. 2, 2011, at the home of his daughter, surrounded by his loving family.
     The family will greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 7, 2011, at Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford. A memorial service will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Oct. 8, at Glenwood Seventh-day Adventist Church with Pastor Ben Orian officiating.
     John was born Aug. 15, 1926, in Waupaca, Wis., the son of the late Albert and Odelia (Kindschy) Wagner. He served in World War II, where he received the Victory Medal, American Theater Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal and Meritorious Unit Award.
     John was a member of the Glenwood Seventh-day Adventist Church. He was preceded in passing by his parents, his brother, and by his wife of 57 years, Alice Darlene (Coffin) Wagner.
     Survivors include two sons, Jerry (Rita) Wagner of Crown Point, Ind., and Ron Wagner of Watervliet; a daughter, Kathy (David) Hill of Keeler; seven grandchildren; one step grandchild; five great-grandchildren and three step great-grandchildren.
Memorial donations may be made to Adventist Development Relief Agency

Fred Haight, 81, of Ionia, passed away September 28, 2011 at his home. Fred was born in Allegan,, Michigan on April 5, 1930 to Harold and Esther Haight. He was preceded in death by his parents, older brother George, and brothers-in-law Larry Peirce and Dr. Murray Koorhan. Fred is survived by his wife of 56 years, Nancy (Peirce) Haight. He is also survived by his two daughters, Robin Haight Robinson and Wendy Haight, and two grandchildren, Matt Robinson (fiancé Amanda Solomon) and Erin Robinson; brother Wallace (Carol) Haight of Hartford, MI; sisters Camilla (Martin) Diebold of Hartford, MI and Shirley Koorhan of Mason, Arizona., and many nieces and nephews.
     Fred served in the Navy and was a Korean War veteran. He started his own business Fred Haight Insurance Agency, in 1965 at a card table in his dining room. It grew to employ three agents and several office assistants by the time he retired in 1992. Fred thoroughly enjoyed his profession, and loved his morning coffee chats with the area farmers. He was also and Eagle Scout and very proud of that accomplishment. Fred and Nancy were avid travelers, visiting many countries over the years. They enjoyed collecting souvenirs, which they used to decorate their sunroom. Fred dearly loved high school sports, and with his partner Larry Dowsett, filmed the Ionia High School football games for 31 years. He loved woodworking in his shop, and was a great fan of the Detroit Tigers.
     Fred was an active member of the Ionia Masonic Blue Lodge for 60 years, serving as Worshipful Master five times.
    Fred adored his two grandchildren, Matt and Erin, and was so proud of all their accomplishments. He enjoyed watching them play sports and hearing about all their adventures. When Erin went to South Korea to teach, he gave her several tips and taught her some Korean phrases. Matt is currently an active duty Army Specialist in training for deployment, and his grandpa was extremely proud of him. Fred thoroughly enjoyed life and was a friend to everyone he met. He taught his family to live life with joy and not to “sweat the small stuff”.
     Services are scheduled for Tuesday, October 4, 11:00 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Ionia with Rev. Larry Brown officiating. Visitation will be held at Lake Funeral Home in Ionia from 4:00 to 7:00 on Monday, October 3, with Masonic services following. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First United Methodist Church or to the Ionia County Animal Shelter. Online condolences may be made at www.lakefuneralhomes.com.

Note: Fred was a 1949 Hartford High School graduate.

Dorothy Louise (Penn) Haugard, age 84, of Haslett (formerly of Lawrence, MI) died September 26, 2011 at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. Dorothy was born in

Detroit on April 14, 1927. She was a graduate of Cooley High School, Michigan State University and Western Michigan University. Dorothy taught reading in the Hartford and Bloomingdale school districts and completed her working career as the librarian of the Lawrence Branch of the Van Buren District Libraries.
     Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband Henning Haugard in 2004; by her parents J. George and F. Alona Penn; and by her sisters Alice Kurth, Marion Stow and Mary Beth Cook. Surviving her are five children: David (Kim) Haugaard, Mark Haugard, Eric Haugaard, Kristine Haugaard and Kurt Haugard; two grandchildren, Nathan (Blair) Haugaard and Jessica (Joshua) Cox; and four great-grandchildren, Tiller and Rivers Haugaard and Jalen and Sierra Cox.
     A Celebration of Life will be held at the Hartford United Methodist Church on October 16, 2011 at 1 pm, with a meal to follow. Dorothy joined the HUMC in 1956 and was a member of the choir and United Methodist Women. Memorials may be made to the Hartford United Methodist Church, 425 East Main Street, Hartford, MI 49057.
     Please visit Dorothy’s personal website at http://avinkcremation.com where you can post a remembrance and share a photo.

Ronald Glynn Spangler, 68, of Paw Paw [formerly of Hartford] passed away Sunday, Sept. 25, 2011, at home.
     Ronald was born July 30, 1943, in St. Louis, Mo., the son of Walter and Reva (Nash) Spangler, both of whom preceded him in passing. Also preceding him in passing are four brothers, Charles Spangler, Barry Spangler, Frankie Spangler and Ricky Spangler, and three sisters, Janet Morris, Joyce Spangler and Donna Beaman.
     Ronald was self-employed as a truck driver and also worked for Ron’s Auto in Sister Lakes. In his spare time, he loved listening to country music, watching westerns and enjoyed cookouts with his family.
    Ronald is survived by five children, Ronald Spangler Jr. of Carson City, Lorie (Steve) Carlock of Paw Paw, Billy Sr. (Shannon) Spangler of Hartford, Sheila (Dale) Gaston of Benton Harbor and Glynn (Melissa) Blanchard of Bangor. He is also survived by four stepchildren; 27 grandchildren and 13 greatgrandchildren; a brother, Gerald (Wanda) Spangler of Douglas, Ga.; and two sisters, Nina (Mark) Posthuma of Allegan and Judy (Larry) Thompson of Martin.
     The family will welcome friends from 6 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with the service to honor his memory commencing at 7 p.m. Pastor Jeffrey Williams of the Hartford United Methodist Church will officiate. Burial will follow at a later date in Hill Cemetery, Lawrence.

Charles Edward Winslow, 90, of Spring Lake, Mich. [formerly of Hartford], passed away Sunday, Sept. 25, 2011, at Robinswood Assisted Living, Grand Haven.
     Charles was born May 18, 1921, in Bangor Township, the son of Ned and Phyllis (Kemp) Winslow, both of whom preceded him in passing. Also preceding him in passing were his wife, Joyce (Disbrow) Winslow; a brother, Leland Winslow; sister-in-law, Evelyn Winslow; and a brotherin-law, Jerry Sarno.
     Charles graduated from Hartford High School in 1939 and earned his B.S.M.E. from the University of Michigan in 1944. He retired from New Products of Benton Harbor after 20 years of service. He was a former member of the Watervliet United Methodist Church.
     Charles is survived by his son, Allen (Linda) Winslow of Spring Lake; two grandsons, Christopher Winslow of Grand Rapids and Timothy Winslow of Spring Lake; a greatgrandson, Lucas Own Pietrak-Winslow; a sister, Elda Sarno of Covert; and numerous nieces and nephews.
     The family will welcome friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 28, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service to honor his memory will commence at 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 29, at the funeral home, with the Rev. Mark Erbes of the Lake Harbor United Methodist Church of Muskegon officiating. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Memorial donations in Charles’ name may be made to the Coloma United Methodist Church.

Lloyd “Tiny” Frerichs, age 92. Lloyd’s life began Oct. 14, 1918, in Eagle Bend, Minn. He spent most of his lifetime in Southwest Michigan. He worked as a mechanic and service manager for Rogel’s, drove trucks and farmed.
     His loving family includes a son, Roger Frerichs of Oswego, Ill., six grandchildren, 16 greatgrandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.
     Lloyd died Saturday, Sept. 24, 2011. He was preceded in death by his wife, Willimia; parents, Henry and Mary (Virregge) Frerichs; and three sisters, Dorothy, Minnie and Ann.
     A memorial service will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, at Salem Lutheran Church in Coloma. Hutchins Funeral Home, Watervliet, is assisting Lloyd’s family with arrangements.

On Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2011, DiAnn Macie Birmele, 58, of Hartford, saw the face of her Lord Jesus Christ.
     DiAnn was born Nov. 29, 1952, in Battle Creek, the daughter of Ralph and Joyce (Ward) Coss. Ralph has since passed away, as have two brothers, David and Douglas, and her stepfather, Virgil Prince.
     DiAnn was a loyal employee for 34 years with the Social Security Administration, where she worked in both Benton Harbor and Kalamazoo. Her greatest love was her children and grandchildren, as she devoted most of her free time to activities with them. She loved sewing, quilting, knitting and traveling, especially the trips to Las Vegas.
     DiAnn married Raymond Birmele on June 7, 1970. He survives, along with their two daughters, Andrea Birmele and Candace Birmele, both of Hartford; six grandchildren, Logan, Andrew, Austin, Alexis, Zachary and Sophia; her mother, Joyce Prince of Battle Creek; and a brother, Donald Coss of Battle Creek.
     As per DiAnn’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service to honor her memory will commence at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 8, at the Hartford United Methodist Church with Pastor Jeffrey Williams serving as officiant.
     Memorials may be made to the Hartford United Methodist Church or to a fund for her grandchildren’s education. All checks are to be payable to Hartford UMC, indicating Church of Education.
     The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangements.

Note: DiAnn was a 1970 Hartford High School Graduate.

Peggy Haynes Rose, age 82 of Holland OH [formerly of Hartford], passed away on Monday, September 12, 2011. Further information will be posted as it becomes available.

Note: Peggy was a 1946 Hartford High School graduate.

Mary E. Hobson - Mary’s life began April 18, 1929, in Nashville, Tenn. She spent her childhood growing up in Tennessee, where she met Claude Hobson. Mary and Claude married March 11, 1944, and after the war they moved to Michigan. Mary worked for many years as a nurse’s aide in the hospitals in the communities of Watervliet, Paw Paw and Dowagiac.
     Her greatest joy came in taking care of and spending time with her loving family which includes: four children Larry (Phyllis) Hobson of Tennessee, Claudann (Leon) Birmann of Portage, Claude (Marge) Hobson of Watervliet and Judy (Jamie) Shur of Wisconsin; eight grandchildren: Mark (Lisa) Clauser, Terry (Larry) Adams, Charles (Katrina) Adkins III, Mandy Hobson, Todd (Jodi) Hobson, Tanya (TJ) Ricketts, Melissa Kieft and Scott (Jennifer) Hobson; 21 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren and one more on the way; a sister Lucille Melton of Nashville and many nieces and nephews.
     Mary died Friday, Sept. 16, 2011, at Bronson Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Lawton. She is preceded in death by her loving husband Claude and her parents Jack and Mary (Trechell) Rader.
     Friends may visits with Mary’s family Tuesday, Sept. 20, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet. After cremation Mary will be laid to rest with a private family ceremony in Fort Custer National Cemetery in Battle Creek, Mich.

Warren Everhart, age 81, of Covert, passed away Wednesday, September 14, 2011 at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph, MI.
     The family will meet friends 9:30-11:00 AM Friday, September 16, 2011 at the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, where the funeral service will be 11:00 AM with Pastor Duane Jones officiating. Interment will follow in Thomas Cemetery.
     Warren was born on January 23, 1930 in Covert, MI to Chester and Erma (Loomis) Everhart. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, retiring on July 27, 1977. During his retirement, he enjoyed gardening, fishing and traveling. On September 15, 1992, Warren married the love of his life, Daliene Nutting Lucker. When Warren married Daliene, he also inherited 5 children and their families; Doug Lucker and his children Sarah (Alex) Roussakis and Phillip (Colleen) Lucker; Karen (William) Hill and her daughter Donna (Robert) Youngsma; David Lucker and his daughter Alyssa Lucker; Robert (Rose) Lucker and their son Ryan (Tori) Lucker; and Lisa (Ronald) Fairbanks. Great-Grandchildren include Alec, Briley, Brea, Braedyn and Clayton. Also surviving are his brother Lloyd Everhart and his wife Pat; sister Arlis and her husband Jim Heller; Brother-In-Law Darold (Ruth) Nutting and Sister-In-Law Dayla (Larry) MacKinder, many nieces and nephews, Kathie Lucker and one very special best friend, his dog, Katie.
     In addition to his parents, Warren was proceeded by his first wife, Mary.

NOTE: Warren was a member of the class of 1948 at Hartford High School. As a "Career Air Force", one of his later assignments was as a Gatling Gunner on an AC-47 in Vietnam. His actual plane is in the "grave yard" at Tucson, AZ. (Thanks to Larry Blyly for furnishing this additional interesting information about Warren.)

Zachariah William Zellmer, 19, of Coloma passed away Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2011, as the result of an automobile accident in Hartford.

     A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10 a.m. Monday, Sept. 19, at St. Bernard Catholic Church, 555 Delaware St., Benton Harbor, officiated by Father William Jacobs Jr., Father Don Wieber, Father Jim Morris and Father Mike Rejent, with burial to follow in North Shore Memory Gardens. Visitation will take place Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m., with a special remembrance at 5 p.m. at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph. Memorials may be made to the Humane Society of Southwest Michigan or the Lake Michigan Catholic High School Drama Department. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.starks-menchinger .com.
     Zachariah was born Oct. 15, 1991, in Southfield, Mich., to Joseph and Sheila (Wildeman) Zellmer. He graduated from Lake Michigan Catholic High School in 2010 and was currently attending Lake Michigan College. Zac was an active participant in the local theater groups, including Lake Michigan Catholic High School, Twin City Players and Lakeshore Productions, running the technical equipment or working with the stage crew. He loved animals and was a frequent volunteer at the Humane Society. Zac also was an avid reader and especially enjoyed science fiction-fantasy and manga books. Zac will always be remembered as a loyal individual who was very protective of his friends and family, and was someone always ready to listen to others.
     Zac is survived by his parents, Joseph and Sheila, a brother, Nicholas Zellmer, and a sister, Avallion Zellmer, all of Coloma; grandparents, J. Robert (Beverly) Wildeman of St. Joseph and Catherine Zellmer of Lansing; his best friend, Kevin Nelson; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
     He was preceded in death by his grandparents, William Zellmer and Nellie Wildeman.

By ANDREW LERSTEN
Herald-Palladium South Haven Bureau
Published: Thursday, September 15, 2011 1:06 PM EDT
Teen dies when train, car collide
HARTFORD - A young Coloma man's life was cut short Tuesday night when an Amtrak train struck his car on the tracks north of Hartford.
     Zachariah Zellmer, 19, the driver of the 1997 Pontiac hit by the northbound train around 9 p.m. in Hartford Township, was a 2010 graduate of Lake Michigan Catholic High School in St. Joseph.
     Zellmer was pronounced dead at the scene, near the railroad crossing on 51st Avenue just east of County Road 687, Van Buren County Sheriff's Deputy Loren Tanner said. The car was wedged under the front of the lead locomotive, he said.
     The Amtrak train, going from Chicago to Grand Rapids, had been going about 65 mph at the time of the collision.
     The train passengers were not injured and were boarded onto charter buses following the crash, Amtrak Spokesman Marc Magliari told The Holland Sentinel.
     Investigators determined all safety equipment, including the railroad crossing arms and the train's lights, bells and whistles, were in proper working condition, Tanner reported.
     In a note to Lake Michigan Catholic High School parents Wednesday, Principal John Berlin said Zellmer "was a wonderful young man, full of ambition and energy that was contagious to those he came contact with. He will be missed by all."
     Arthur Havlicek, now a sophomore at Grand Valley State University, graduated in Zellmer's class and was one of his closest friends in high school.
    "He was the best friend you could ask for. He was more generous than anyone I ever remember. Everyone would go to him with their problems," Havlicek said Wednesday. "He was an individual. He liked to be his own person, and he never cared what people thought of him. In school (drama productions), he was big into working with the stage, being the behind-the-scenes guy. He loved his family, especially his younger brother and sister."
     Havlicek added that his friend did not drink or use drugs.
     The crash remains under investigation.

Judy Ann Kublick, 59, of Covert, formerly of Hartford, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2011, at South Haven Community Hospital.
     Judy was born June 16, 1952. Her love for her children and grandchildren made her life whole. She was very active with the Hartford Public Schools and was a member of the PTA. She was instrumental in starting Santa’s workshop, was a member of the Hartford Lions Club, loved to do puzzles of all kinds and enjoyed reading a good book.
     Judy leaves behind her husband, David, whom she married on Aug. 10, 1974; a daughter, Shawna (Jose Mendez) Reyna of Covert; a son, Daniel (Margie) Kublick of Sullivan, Mo.; five grandchildren, Justin and Arin Reyna, David, Javier and Jose Mendez; seven sisters, Marsha (Bob) Foote, Agnes (Charles) Cross, Bertha (Marsh) Spaford, Nancy Anderson, Elizabeth Hernandez, Gerry Pamame and Bernice (Tony) Sineway; and two brothers, John Beaver and Fred (Darlene) Weissert.
     The family will receive friends from 6 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, followed by the service to honor her memory at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the Hartford United Methodist Church with the Rev. Jeffrey Williams officiating. As to Judy’s wishes, cremation will follow the service. The family has requested memorials in Judy’s name be made to the family.

Thomas William Gross, 92, of Winter Haven, Fla., formerly of Stevensville, passed away at home Aug. 29, 2011. According to his wishes, cremation has taken place.
    Mr. Gross was born Feb. 27, 1919, in Mayberry Township in Illinois, to Colver and Elsie Gross. He married Alinda Virkus in Benton Harbor on Feb. 28, 1948. Alinda preceded him in death on Sept. 29, 1999, in Winter Haven.
     Tom had an interesting business life. He farmed several years with his father in Keeler. He then owned a Sinclair gas station in Benton Harbor. After that he managed Twin City Chevrolet and then Ned Gates Chevrolet, where he retired after 30 years in car sales.
     He is survived by his son, William H. (Patricia) Gross of St. Joseph; his daughter, Conniemae (Bill) Bailey of Surprise, Ariz.; four grandchildren, Teresa (Paul) Santarlas, Thomas (Amy) Kesterke, William D. (Angela) Gross and Donna (John) Manobianco and five great-grandchildren; a sister, June Green, and many nieces and nephews. Tom is also survived by his special friend, Donna Heminger of Winter Haven.

    NOTE: Thomas was a 1936 Hartford High School graduate.

Michael Scott Everett, 55, of Keeler passed away suddenly Sunday, Sept. 4, 2011, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph.
     The family is to have private services. If you wish to send donations, cards, flowers, etc. you may send them to the Everett residence at 84471 County Road 687, Hartford, MI 49057.
     Michael was born Dec. 25, 1955, in Watervliet to Norma J. (Deal) and Shelby Everett, both of whom preceded him in passing.
     Michael graduated from Hartford High School and had lived in Keeler his entire life. He enjoyed outdoor activities, like fishing, camping and going on long road trips. He loved spending time with his family and grandkids. On Dec. 3, 1975, he married Debra Jean (Gammon) Everett. Michael is survived by his wife, four children – Kimberly Jean (Everett) Dumont, Scott Alvin Everett, Elizabeth Marie Everett and Christopher Lee Everett, all of Keeler; seven grandchildren – Paige, Destiny, Tristian, Alexis, Norma Jean, Cody and Brea.
     Michael had three dogs that he loved as his own kids, they were Aeriel, who passed away a year ago, but he still had Chubbs and Wally, who kept him going. He also had four sisters – Phyllis (Mike) Stielstra of Ludington, Judy Klett who has passed away, Beverly (Michael) Cheshire of New Mexico and Sheila (Don) Closson of Benton Harbor, nine nephews and four nieces.
     The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford with the arrangements.

Carol M. Kime, 93, of Battle Creek passed away Sunday, September 4, 2011 at Brenda Moore Homes. She was born January 10, 1918 in Chicago, Illinois Carol Kime d 9-4-2011

the daughter of Frank and Sadie (Dillman) Dankert.
     Carol graduated from Hartford High School [1935] in Hartford, MI. On October 1, 1938 she married Charles C. Kime in East Lansing, MI and they moved to Battle Creek in 1948. Charles preceded her in death on May 22, 1968. She was also preceded in death by her parents, sister, Gail Knapp and brother, Roger Dankert.
     Carol is survived by three daughters: Karen (Gary) Gabriel of Torch Lake, Kathy (Martin) Clark of Battle Creek and Janet Kime of Vashon, WA; one granddaughter: Christine (Jim) Lake of Marquette; one step-granddaughter: Karen Clark of Grand Rapids; and two great-granddaughters: Sydney and Lyndsey Lake of Marquette.
     Carol was a homemaker for most of her life and had many wonderful friends. She was a member of the First Congregational Church, Rose Standish Circle, and secretary at Kimball House Museum, member of the Historical Society and for 20 years a Red Cross volunteer. She enjoyed reading, quilting, gardening, and playing bridge.
     As per Carol’s request, cremation has taken place and there will be no services. Burial of ashes will be in Hartford MI. Memorial contributions may be given to the Battle Creek Historical Society or the First Congregational Church of Battle Creek.

Orville Saline, age 74, originally of Hartford, passed away suddenly on Sept. 1, 2011, at his home in Midlothian, Texas.
     Orville was born on Dec. 18, 1936, in Nebraska, the son of Ernest and Marie Saline. He was employed at Watervliet Paper Mill before working at Lane Automotive until retiring to Texas in 2001.
     Orville was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Marie Saline; his wife, Florence on Feb. 4, 2005; and his son, Robert Saline on June 13, 2004.
He is survived by his son, Joseph Saline (Leslie) of Midlothian; grandchildren Cody Saline of Midlothian, David Saline of Decatur and Jimmy Saline of Hartford.
     As per Orville’s wishes, he will be cremated and buried in Keeler, Mich. He was loved and will be missed. Arrangements are by Midlothian Funeral Home, Midlothian, Texas 76065.

Ashley Diane Buckley, 25, of Coloma passed away suddenly Saturday, Aug. 27, 2011, in Hartford.
     Ashley was born Aug. 12, 1986, in St. Joseph, the daughter of Terrance and Shirley (Smith) Buckley. She had attended Covert Public Schools and was a member of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians. Ashley enjoyed scrapbooking, karaoke and spending time with her family and friends. She often used the word “hope” and loved the color blue and liked to walk in the rain.
     Ashley is survived by her parents, Terrance and Shirley, five brothers: John Buckley of Coloma, James (Misty) Buckley of Watervliet, Keith Buckley of South Haven, Christopher Buckley and Michael Smith, both of Hartford, a sister: Amber Hurd of New Hampshire; her grandmother: Betty Smith of Coloma; the love of her life Eric Adams of Covert; and many nieces and nephews.
     Cremation has taken place and a graveside service will commence at 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 3, at Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford with Pastor Shannon Truelove as the officiant. The Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians will follow with their services to honor her memory. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to give a memorial in her name may do so to the Berrien County Cancer Society. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with the arrangement process.

Kalamazoo Gazette
by William R. Wood
August 28, 2011

Coloma woman struck and killed by train

HARTFORD — A Coloma woman was found dead near railroad tracks in Hartford early Saturday, police said.
Ashley Buckley, 23, was found at the railroad tracks near the Bernard Street railroad crossing. Police said Buckley was hit by a southbound train that was traveling about 35 mph.
Police are continuing to investigate.

Ruth I. Jingst, 88 formerly of the Iowa City area, went to be with her Lord, Tuesday, August 23, 2011.
Ruth Jingst d 8-23-2011

     Funeral services will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, August 27th at the Faith Baptist Church in Iowa City, with burial at Memory Gardens Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm Friday at Gay & Ciha Funeral Home in Iowa City. In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established in Ruth’s name. Online condolences may be sent for her family through the web at www.gayandciha.com.
     Ruth Ingram Jingst was born April 7, 1923, in Chicago, Illinois the daughter of F. Charles and Caroline (Ordemann) Ingram. She was united in marriage to the Reverend Alvin P. Jingst on May 26, 1945, in Chicago. She not only was a wife and mother to her family, but was her husband’s strongest supporter in his ministries. It was unusual to see Pastor Alvin without Ruth! They served the Lord in a number of states including Michigan, Kansas, and Illinois before their family settled in Iowa City in 1966. Even in retirement the couple continued in their ministries to many in the local hospitals and care centers. They moved to the Regency Care Center in Norwalk, Iowa several years ago.
     Ruth's family includes her son Charles "Chuck" (Sharon) Jingst of Des Moines; sister, Edith Mefferd of Joliet, IL; grandchildren, Allen (Amy) Jingst, Eric (Michelle) Jingst, Justin and Casey Patterson; great-grandchildren; and Sharon Patterson, Peter's longtime friend. Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Alvin (March 3, 2011), their son, Peter [1998]; and an infant brother, Arthur.

NOTE: Ruth's husband, Rev. Alvin Jingst, was Pastor of the Hartford Federated Church, Hartford Michigan from 1947-1956.

Barbara Ann Roy, 76, of Hartford, formerly of Arizona, passed away Thursday afternoon, August 25, 2011 at Watervliet Community Hospital. She was born March 29, 1935 in Tucson, Arizonia.
A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday at Duffield and Pastrick Family Funeral Home in Coloma. Visitation with the family will be held one hour prior to the service. Cremation has taken place. Friends may share a memory or leave a message of comfort for the family on the online guestbook at http://www.duffieldpastrick.com.
Barbara is survived by her four children, daughter Ann Williamson of Hartford, MI, son Richard Thomas of Anaheim, CA, daughter Dora Rossi of Anaheim, CA, and son Robert (Jan) Zielinski of Las Vegas, NV; her brother Ernest (Malba) Phillips of Albuquerque, NM; 13 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

Silberio Gutierrez, 51, of Hartford went to be with the Lord on Friday, Aug. 19, 2011, at his home.
     Silberio was born May 8, 1960, in Municipio de Penjamo, Guanajuato, Mexico, the son of Martin and Celia (Barajas) Gutierrez.
     Silberio was a hard worker who loved the outdoors, which was evident in his working in the fields for Berrybrook Enterprises for more than 20 years.
     Silberio is survived by his wife, Martha; and his three children, Leonardo Gutierrez, Sonia Gutierrez and Adrian Gutierrez, all of Hartford. He is also survived by his siblings – Macedonio, Guadalupe, Jose, Anotonio, Martin, Zacarias, Emilia and Trina.
     The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 23, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Hartford. Mass of Christian Burial to honor his memory will commence at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 24, at the church. Father Hernan Soto will be the celebrant. Silberio will be laid to rest in Fairview Memorial Cemetery. The family has requested memorials in Silberio’s name be made to the family. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford with handling the arrangement process.

Arthur James “Butch” Bench, 67, of Hartford passed away on Aug. 16, 2011, at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo.
Art Bench d 8-16-2011      Art was born to parents Allen and Virginia (Gleason) Bench on July 25, 1944, in Waukegan, Ill. Art graduated from Hartford High School in 1962 and he married Donna Bench (Yirchott) in 1963. He had four sons, Kenneth, twin sons Donald and Scott, and Stephen Bench. In March of 1991 he married Pamela Bench (Mattimore) and enjoyed life with his stepchildren Heather Lange (Brian Peterson) and Ryan Mattimore.
     Art was very committed to his career. His work life consisted of employment with Norton Manufacturing, Calvin Funeral Home, Haxson Dairy, Producers Dairy and McDonald Dairy. He retired as route manager at Sherman Dairy in South Haven in 2002. Art also enjoyed his weekend employment with Kellogg Hardware in downtown Hartford.
    Art was very active in his community. He was a life member, Past Master and past secretary of Florida-Coffinbury Masonic Lodge in Hartford and a current member of the Coloma Masonic Lodge No. 162. He was a member of the Berrien County Low 12 Club in Coloma and the Saladin Shrine Temple of Grand Rapids. He was a life member, past president and past secretary of the Hartford Lions Club. He was a past member of the Hartford United Methodist Church and a current member of the Wednesday night men’s group. He was a member of the Church of God in St. Joseph.
     Art was preceded in death by his parents, Allen and Virginia, and his two infant twin sons, Donald and Scott. He is survived by his wife, Pam; sisters, Lyn (Barry) Winkel of South Haven, Cindy (Craig) Pear of Grants Pass, Ore.; brother, Stuart (Melanie) Bench of Indianapolis; sons, Steve (Krista) Bench and Ken Bench; grandchildren, Sophie Bench, Audrey Bench, Niki Fisher, Derrik (Alexis) Bench, Kaitlyn Lange, Kelsea Lange and MacKenzie Mattimore; great-granchildren, Dominic Fisher and Mason Fisher. Art is also survived by several special nieces and nephews.
     Visitation will take place from 1 to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 20, at the Hartford United Methodist Church, 425 E. Main, followed directly by Masonic Rites and the funeral service at 2 p.m. Pastor Jeff Williams will be officiating. Burial will occur immediately after the funeral service at Maple Hill Cemetery in Hartford. Memorial donations in Art’s name may be made to the Hartford United Methodist Church Men’s Group or to the Hartford Lions Club. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangement process.

Kenneth Loren Wilson, age 88, of Ada, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, on Friday, August 12, 2011.
Kenneth Wilson d 8-12-2011

     He grew up during the Depression Era and was a gentleman who saved everything. Ken was a 1941 graduate of Hartford High School, and then entered the US Army with combats in Normandy, Northern France, Ardennes, Rhineland, and Central Europe. S/Sgt. Wilson was honored with five Bronze Battle Stars. While in Belgium, Ken met his wife, Gisele; and they were married in 1945 in Chenie, Belgium.
     After his return from the war, he learned the refrigeration trade by working for Udell Refrigeration. In 1976 he opened his own business, North Pole Refrigeration, retiring in 1990.
     Ken and Gisele enjoyed square dancing and playing cards. He also liked to hunt and fish. Ken taught his children about fishing, the use of tools, and how to fix things. He was a member of the Clarence Schumacher Post VFW #3946.
     He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Gisele T. Wilson; children, Ronald (Mary) Wilson, Bruce (Kathryn) Wilson, Sandy Burgess, Kenneth Todd (Michelle) Wilson, Tammy (Scott) Freeland; 23 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; sister, Mrs. Betty Baldwin; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his three sisters.
     The service for Mr. Wilson will be Saturday, August 20, 2011, at 1:00 p.m. at the Pederson Funeral Home with Pastor Rick Blunt officiating. Military honors will be under the auspices of the Kent County Veterans Honor Guard with inurnment in Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Memorials: For the care given to Ken’s granddaughter, Morgan, the family has requested donations to Smile Train, PO Box 96231, Washington, DC 20090-6231.
     Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the Pederson Funeral Home from 12:00 (noon) until the time of service on Saturday.

Mary Sweet d 8-10-2011 Mary Elizabeth Sweet, 93, of Bridgman, formerly of Hartford, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2011, at Jordan’s Life Care Center, Bridgman.
     Mary was born June 12, 1918, in Tacoma, Wash., the daughter of William and Myrtle (Stroud) Ray, both of whom preceded her in passing. She was also preceded in passing by her first husband, James Drake, her second husband, Azur Sweet, and three brothers, George Ray, Billy Ray and Earl Ray.
     Mary was a hard worker, which was evident in her working for Hilltop Orchards until she reached the age of 70. During this time she was working on the farm and raising her five children, James (Kay) Drake of Paw Paw, Gerald (Mary) Drake of Bangor, Joyce (Jerry) Duncan of Clermont, Fla., Lewie (Paulette) Drake of Coloma and Mary (Skip) Gwyer of Stevensville; a stepdaughter, Pat Hall. Mary is also survived by nine grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, six great-great-grandchildren, a sister, Myrtle Stoddard of Hartford, and a sister-in-law, Bernice Ray of Medford, Ore.
     The family will receive friends from 10 to 11 a.m. Monday, Aug. 15, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, at which time the service to honor her memory will commence. Pastor Gerald C. Schroer of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Stevensville, will officiate. Mary will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. The family has requested memorials in Mary’s name be made to the St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Stevensville.

Mark Douglas Blakeman Sr., 62, of Hartford died unexpectedly on Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2011, at his residence.
Mark Blakeman Sr. d 8-9-2011

     Cremation has taken place. A memorial service followed by a time of sharing and refreshments will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 20, at the Matthew Blakeman residence, 2611 Carter Road, Coloma. Donations in memory of Mark may be given to the family. Those wishing to leave an online message of comfort for the family may do so at www.duffieldpastrick.com,
     Mark was born Aug. 17, 1949, in Benton Harbor to Jack and Margarite (Vertifeulle) Blakeman. He served in the Army during the Vietnam Era. He was a true handyman who could build or fix anything that came his way.
     Survivors include two sons, Mark (Sherrie) and Chad Blakeman, both of Hartford; three brothers, Ralph (Bonnie) Blakeman of Eau Claire, Terry (Pam) Blakeman of Benton Harbor and Dick (Linda) McEwan of Alabama; and four grandchildren, Lacie Blakeman, Nathaniel Blakeman, Whitney Blakeman and Tanner Jack Blakeman.
     He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Ron Blakeman.

Marjorie Lee Peirce, 75, of Hartford passed away suddenly on Monday, Aug. 8, 2011, at her home. Marjorie was a beloved mother, animal lover, and a friend to all who knew her.
     Marjorie was born Sept. 9, 1935, in Newton, Mass., the daughter of Charles and Frances (Elliott) Jensen, both of whom preceded her in passing. She was also preceded in passing by her two sisters, Barbara Fredericks and Phyllis Keller.
     Marjorie was formerly employed at the Hartford Public Schools in the lunch program for more than 30 years.
     Marjorie is survived by her three children, John (Shawn) Peirce and Leonard (Olivia) Peirce, both of Portage, and Shari (Michael) Whaley of Grayslake, Ill., and numerous nieces and nephews in the Boston area.
     The family will receive friends from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 17, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, at which time the service to honor her memory will commence. Marjorie’s ashes will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford at a later date. The family has requested memorials in Marjorie’s name be made to the Animals Best Friend Fund Inc. of Lawton, Mich.

Anna May “Annie” Bisbee, 76, of Hartford took Jesus’ hand and went to her heavenly home on Sunday, Aug. 7, 2011, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph.
     Annie was born Feb. 28, 1935, in Roundup, Mont., to Arthur and Ruth (Evens) Robling, both of whom preceded her in passing. Annie was also preceded by a sister, Fern Albertson. Annie moved to Chicago and then to Coloma, where she found her heavenly home on earth. Those who knew Annie knew her for her love of family, her integrity, honesty and love of all people. Her spunk was an all winning smile and a tough handshake. Her lifetime love of fishing, gardening and crocheting evolved into retirement travel with the love of her life, Nyle, her husband of 43 years.
     Annie leaves behind to celebrate her life and cherish her memories, her husband, Nyle, her children, Wayne Croft of Watervliet, Ruth (Toby) Fox of Dowagiac, Nyla (Wayne) Ebrecht of Benton Harbor and Nyle (Andy) Bisbee of Hartford. Annie also leaves behind her grandchildren, Bradly and Curtis Croft, Robbie Holder, Alexis Pflugradt, Austin, Shelby and Issac Ebrecht.
     The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 10, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where at 2 p.m. the service to honor Annie’s memory will commence. Pastor Steve Bisbee of the Hartford General Baptist Church will officiate. Annie will be laid to rest in Fairview Memorial Cemetery, Watervliet. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made in Annie’s name to any American Legion Post.

Leo C. Gratzle passed away at his Lawrence Township home on Aug. 2, 2011.
     He was born April 2, 1927, in Hartford, Mich., the second son of Joseph and Laura (Finken) Gratzle. He attended Hartford High School, Class of 1944. Leo served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1953 in Germany as a tank crewman and Jeep driver with the 40th Tank Battalion, 4th Division. He moved to Lawrence Township in 1954 and lived there until his death.
     Twice married, Leo is survived by seven children: Marian Main of Lawrence Township; Laura Crim of San Antonio; Ann Turner of Lawton, Mich.; Charles “Chuck” Gratzle of Jonesboro, Ark., Dorothy Robins of Kalamazoo, Mich., Cecelia Webb of Raleigh, N.C., and John Gratzle of Los Angeles. He is also survived by nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
     Leo worked as a machine operator, mechanic, journeyman millwright and tool and die machinist for Studebaker, the Van Buren County Road Commission, Potlatch Paper Corp., Du-Wel, Inc., and Bohn Aluminum. He retired in 1993 to enjoy traveling in his RV, visiting family and friends as well as working on farming projects. Leo was an active member of the American Legion for 53 years.
     Memorials should be sent to the Hess and Eastman American Legion, Post 174, in care of Leonard Funeral Home, P.O. Box 144, Lawrence, MI 49064, or to the charity of your choice. Leo will be interred with his parents at Maple Hill Cemetery in Hartford in a private service. A reception will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Sept. 24 at the American Legion Hall 130 E. St. Joseph St. in Lawrence. .

NOTE: Leo was from the 1944 graduating class of Hartford High School. He also served in the US Army during Korea.

Pauline V. (Wallace) Kempski, 80, Murfreesboro, Tenn., formerly of Hartford, Bangor, and So. Haven, passed away [7-27-2011] at the age of 80 as a result of an automobile accident. Pauline moved to Murfreesboro, Tenn., in 2001, where she was living at the time of her death. Pauline was born in Piggott, Ark. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert H. and Effie M. (Luff) Wallace; husband, Alexander Jr.; and son, Alexander III; brothers, William and Robert; and sister, Shirley (Maxine) Jones.
She is survived by sons, Stephen (Tracy) Kempski of Conway, S.C., W. Scott (Jill) Kempski of Bangor, Frederick (Shirley) Kempski of Ironwood, Mich., Daniel (Juanita) Kempski of Hobart, Ind., and Michael (Janie) Kempski of South Haven; a daughter, Sandra (Rex) Ellsworth of Murfreesboro, Tenn.; and several nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great-children and friends. Pauline was retired from West Michigan Savings Bank in Bangor.
Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 1, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, Mich., and the funeral will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 2, at Calvin Funeral Home. Pastor John Titwell of Lascassas Baptist Church in Tennessee will officiate. Burial will be in Maple Hill Cemetery in Hartford.

NOTE: The Kempski family lived in Hartford during the 1960s.

David Lawson, 61, of Watervliet, formerly of Bridgeport, Ill., passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, July 26, 2011, in Jackson, Mich.
David was born at home in Bridgeport, Ill., to Frank and Ruby (Croslow) Lawson on Oct. 14, 1949.
     After attending Red Hill High School, David went on to receive a degree in diesel mechanics from Wabash Valley Community College. In 1970 he relocated to Hartford, where he met and married the love of his life, Christine Pleyer, on June 24, 1975.
     David made a living as a truck driver for most of his life and was employed by Nash Finch for the past 20 years. In his spare time he enjoyed traveling, his love of camping, NASCAR and politics. But his real love was being a family man, and the love he has for his family was never mistaken.
     Mr. Lawson is survived by his wife of 36 years, Christine Lawson; three daughters, Katrina (Gary) Johnson of Hartford, Kara Prillwitz of Hartford and Erica Lawson and fiancé Roderick Kinzler of Watervliet; a son, David (Angela) Lawson of Hartford; a sister-in-law, who resided with them, Diane Pleyer; seven grandchildren, Shawn Willey, Brock Ellery, Garrod Johnson, Dylan and Devon Lawson, twins Bryson and Zoe Prillwitz and a very special little one on the way. Also surviving are a niece and nephew dear to his heart, Shanon and Laura Sinclair; three brothers, Raymond (Karen) Lawson, Tony (Heidi) Lawson and Ben Woodall; and two sisters, Lyda Mae Opal Linder and Bobbie Jean Derreck.
     Mr. Lawson was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Danny Woodall; and a son-in-law, Ronald Prillwitz.
     Although the days will be long, the memories will be unforgettable. We will always love and miss him – Husband, Dad and Papa.
     The family will welcome friends from 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, July 30, at the His Place Cathedral of Faith, Covert, where the service to honor his memory will commence at noon. Pastor Shannon Truelove will serve as officiant. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, the family has set up a memorial fund in David’s name at Fifth Third Bank. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangements.

Frances Fredericks died July 25, 2011 in Grand Rapids. She was born January 26, 1925 in Little Rock, AR, the daughter of Clarence and Louise (Paschal) Frances Fredericks d 7-25-2011

Garner.
     Learn more about Fran, view her Life Story film, and share in some refreshments with her family and friends on Thursday from 5:00 - 8:00 PM at the Life Story Funeral Home, Betzler-Kalamazoo; 6080 Stadium Drive, 375-2900. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday 11:00 AM at St. Ambrose Catholic Church. A luncheon will follow in the church hall.
     Fran was preceded in death by five brothers and three sisters. She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Harlan Fredericks; four children, Jef (Janet) Fredericks, Gail (Mike) Wambach, Holly Fredericks, and Charley (Rebecca) Fredericks; ten grandchildren; five great grandchildren; special friends, Don and Maggie Mead; many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
     Please visit Fran's personal web page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can read her Life Story, archive a memory or photo, and sign her online guestbook before coming to the funeral home. Memorial donations may be directed to the Portage Public Library.

Note: Fran was a 1943 Hartford High School Graduate.

Elaine Virginia Carlson, 90, beloved mother, grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully at home early on July 19, 2011. She was born Jan. 4, 1921, in Elaine Carlson d 7-19-2011

Lockport, Ill., to Frank and Virginia Morey of Lockport, who preceded her in death, along with her brother, Norris.
     Elaine was preceded in death by her husband, Earl, who died in 2002.
     Elaine is survived by her sister, Phyllis (Wayne) White of Mount Prospect Ill.; her four children, daughter Gail Melville of South Bend, Ind., daughter Gwen Parrish of Port St. Lucie, Fla., son Gary (Maxine) Carlson of Hartford and son Gregg (Michele) Carlson of South Haven; nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Elaine retired from Cities Service Gas Company in Hartford in 1983 with her husband. They kept busy keeping in close touch with their children and grandchildren, camping and fishing with close friends, and one could usually find her whipping up special treats in her kitchen.
     Elaine was a longtime active member of the Hartford Federated Church, secretary for the Awana Club for almost 20 years, a member of the JOY group, and a member of the Hartford Mothers Club.
     Friends are invited to visit from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 21, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. Additional visitation will commence at 11 a.m. on Friday, July 22, at the Hartford Federated Church, Red Arrow Highway, Hartford, where a memorial service begins at 12:30 p.m. Burial will be in Hartford Maple Hill Cemetery immediately following.
     The family requests any memorial contributions be made to Hospice Home Care, 4025 Health Park Lane, St. Joseph, MI 49085, or to the Hartford Federated Church, Red Arrow Highway, Hartford, MI 49057.

Richard Eugene “Dick” Root, of Hartford, 75, died of natural causes and a 30-year battle with Multiple Sclerosis on July 17, 2011, at the Plainwell LifeCare Center. Born in Hartford on Feb. 11, 1936, he came to Plainwell from Lakeland, Fla., in 2007. A recent member of Gibsonia Baptist Church, he was a lifelong member of the Hartford Federated Church. A retiree of Auto Specialties Mfg., he was a forklift driver and machinist. He loved to talk about his many friends growing up in Hartford and all the people with whom he worked. We’ll remember him for his fabulous humor and that great smile.
     He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia Louise Root, on March 9, 2003; parents, Glenn and Irene Root; sister, Betty Hadley, twin sister, Roberta Weber, brother, Donald Root, and stepson, Randal (Randy) Otte.
     He is survived by his sons, Paul Root of Sparta, Tenn., and Colonel Richard D. Root of Centreville, Va.; daughters, Cheryl Ferrier of Dowagiac and Debra Hupp of Gutherie, Okla.; brother, Jerry Root of Plainwell; sisters, Carol Woodward and Verda Wallace of Hartford; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
     Memorial services will be held at a later date at the Hartford Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (National MS Society, P.O. Box 4527, New York, NY 10163; 800-344-4867) or the Hartford Federated Church, 65418 Red Arrow Highway, Hartford, MI 49057-9723, 269-621-4521.

Margaret Alleyne Myers, 92, of Hartford passed away on Saturday, July 16, 2011, at White Oaks Assisted Living in Lawton.
     Alleyne, as she was known by everyone, was born on Sept. 13, 1918, in Hartford, the daughter of Ralph and Louise (Krohne) Markillie, both of whom preceded her in passing. She was also preceded by her husband, Norman, on Oct. 1, 2004, and two brothers, Paul Markillie on June 25, 2006, and Robert Markillie on April 6, 2007.
     Alleyne is survived by a sister, Jean Sill of Lawrence, and a sister-in-law, Bonita Markillie of Niles; nieces and nephews; good friend and caregiver, Dave Hadley; and many friends, including those who gave her such good care at White Oaks.
     Alleyne was formerly employed at the Hartford Public Schools as secretary for the superintendent for more than 60 years. She was a member of the Hartford Federated Church and the Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel.
     The family will receive friends from 3 to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, July 20, at the Hartford Federated Church, where the service to honor her memory will commence. Pastor Richard Ely will officiate. Alleyne will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford, at a later date. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to give a memorial in Alleyne’s name may do so to the Hartford Federated Church, Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan or to the Hartford Public Schools Scholarship Fund. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with the arrangements.

NOTE: Alleyne was a 1936 Hartford High School graduate. Click here to read more about her.

Manuel Celestino Estrada, 60, of Hartford, passed away Friday, July 15, 2011, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph.
     Manuel was born April 6, 1951, in Reynosa Tamp., Mexico, the son of Esteban and Basilia (Cruz) Estrada, both of whom precede him in passing. Also preceding him in passing are his first wife, Victoria, and two brothers – Guillermo Martinez and Esteban Estrada Jr.
     Manuel was formerly employed at Fruit Belt. In his spare time, Manuel loved fishing and traveling to garage sales.
     Manuel is survived by his wife, Maricela Calderon; five children – Manuel Estrada Jr., Carmelita Estrada Perez, Enedina Zapatero, Maria Elena Cantu and Jesse Cantu; stepso, Francisco Mercado; two sisters, Estela Cruz and San Juanita de la Cruz; five brothers – Lasaro Estrada, Jesus Estrada, Felipe Estrada, Juan Jose Estrada and Gilberto Estrada; and 15 grandchildren.
     The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, July 18, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, where at 7 p.m. the Mass of Christian Burial to honor his memory will commence. Father Fabio Garzon will serve as celebrant. Following the services, cremation will take place. The family requests donations in Manuel’s name be made to the family. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with the arrangement process.

Lowell Gene Story, son of the late Harley Story and Retha Story passed away July 12, 2011 in Conway Arkansas.
     He is survived by wife Jewell Dillard Story and father to seven children; Chrys, Kathy, Debbie, Joe, Theron, Gigi and Leslie, 24 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren; a brother and two sisters.
     Mr. Story graduated Cum Laude from David Lipscomb College, Peabody Vanderbilt with a Masters Degree in History with a minor in New Testament Greek.
     Our dad was an awesome man! He will be missed everyday!
     Funeral services for Mr. Story will be Monday, July 18th in West Plains, Mo., at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, where he was a Bishop for many years.

Mr. Story was History teacher at Hartford High School. Elected to the Hartford City Commission in 1971, he also served as Mayor for the City of Hartford in1975.

Paula Winchester-Geer, KEELER — Paula’s life began on Sept. 6, 1951, in Dowagiac, the daughter of Joseph R. and Joyce L. (Riggs) Winchester.
     She was a 1969 graduate of Dowagiac Union High School and a graduate of Central Michigan University with a bachelor of education degree. Paula had worked for Ameriwood Industries, the Pokagon Band of the Potawatomi Indians, the Private Industry Council and most recently for Shepard Casters in St. Joseph.
     Paula was united in marriage to the love of her life, Terry Geer, on March 22, 1997, at Sacred Heart of Mary Catholic Cemetery grounds. She loved to do anything that Terry was doing. Paula and Terry spent two-thirds of their lives together, and one was never very far from the other. She was especially fond of her nieces and nephews and was their “second mother.”
     Her loving family includes her sister, Judy Winchester, and brother, Scott (Dee Dee) Winchester, both of Sister Lakes; sisters-in-law, Sharon Geer of Sister Lakes, Judy (Mike) Baker and Carrol Sue (Joe) Bradford, both of Hartford; nieces and nephews, Kristy Bradford, Robbie Winchester, Jenna Huffman, Joe Winchester Jr., Jeanna Winchester and Tom Winchester; and great-nieces and nephews, Little Joe Winchester, Alivia Winchester and Gage Bradford. Paula passed away on Wednesday July 13, 2011, at Borgess Lee Memorial Hospital. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Terry, on Oct. 2, 2010, and her parents, Joe and Joyce Winchester.
     Her family will gather with friends from 5 to 8 p.m. on Saturday at Yazel & Clark Chapel, Dowagiac, where her funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday. She will be laid to rest in Sacred Heart of Mary Cemetery on Sunday. Memorial contributions in her name may be directed to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan. Please sign her guestbook and leave a memory of Paula at www.yazel-clark.com.

Brian Edmonds d 7-4-2011 Brian Edmonds, 40, of Blairsville, Ga., formerly of Hartford, passed away suddenly on July 4, 2011.
     Brian was born March 30, 1971, in Kalamazoo and resided in southwestern Michigan for the majority of his life.
     Brian is survived by his mother, Cathy Ontiveros of Hartford; and siblings, Peter Aranda of Kalamazoo, Maria Bailey of Coloma, Jose Ontiveros of Loretto, Pa., Mark Ontiveros of Stevensville, Teresa Collins and Miguel Ontiveros of Hartford, Victor Aranda of Eau Claire and Pedro Aranda of Niles; numerous nieces and nephews; and a close friend, Shelly Lhota of Blairsville, with whom he shared a special bond.
     Brian was preceded in death by his grandparents, George and Jean Edmonds, and uncle, Randy Edmonds.
     During Brian’s time with us he touched many lives and made many good friends. He had a special sense of humor and loved teasing those he cared for.
     Brian was always willing to lend a helping hand to all, but did not ask for help when he needed it most. His passing has left a tremendous void in the lives of those who loved him. He will be missed more than he ever knew.
     Cremation has taken place. Please join his family to share your memories of Brian from 2 to 4 p.m. on July 16 at the Hartford Community Center in Hartford.

NOTE: Brian was from the class of 1990 from Hartford High School.

Kerry William Ulrath, 38, of Bangor passed away suddenly on Monday, July 4, 2011, as a result of an accidental drowning. Kerry was born Jan. 5, 1973, to Kerry Ulrath d 7-4-2011

David and Mary Ulrath. He was the youngest of six children.
     Kerry was an avid hunter and fisherman who loved nothing better than being in the woods or in his boat on Van Auken Lake, where he lived. When his children were young he coached their softball and baseball teams, as well as shared his love of the outdoors with them.
     He is survived by a daughter, Kelsey Ulrath (Kyle Norden), 20, of Hartford; a son, Dakotah Ulrath, 17, of Hartford; a stepdaughter, Maranda (Jeremy) Dill of Hartford; three grandsons whom he loved very much, Kollen Norden of Hartford and Phillip and Joseph Dill of Hartford. He is also survived by his mother, Mary (Mike) Mooney of Hartford; two sisters, Teri (John) Mumaugh of Niles and Brenda Rodriguez of Oklahoma City; two brothers, David (Anna) Ulrath of Bangor and Don (Kathy) Schock of California; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
     He was preceded in death by his father, David Ulrath, and a sister, Renea Schock. Kerry will be greatly loved and missed by all who knew him.
     A memorial dinner will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 9, at the Hartford Fire Station to celebrate his life. The family is asking everyone who knew him to come join them for this.
     A visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, July 11, with a short service to follow at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, a memorial can be made to the family.

Tiffany Nicole Williams Stineman, 18, of Watervliet passed away suddenly on Sunday, July 3, 2011, in Bangor Township as the result of an automobile accident.
     Tiffany was born on Dec. 28, 1992, in Kalamazoo. She attended Berrien Springs Public Schools until her senior year, at which time she attended and graduated from Hartford Public Schools. While in school she was on the cheerleading squad and was a volunteer helper with the Rocket Cheerleaders. Tiffany loved working for her father in the construction business. In her spare time she enjoyed doing gymnastics, playing volleyball and going fishing with her father.
     Tiffany is survived by her father and mother, Richard and Cinnamon Stineman of Watervliet; her adoptive mother, Robyn Quin; her siblings, Richard (Jenny) Westberry of Covert, Cody Westberry, Carrie Gardner, Shane Stineman and Hayley Williams, all of Hartford; a niece, Kayla Westberry; and two nephews, Daniel Westberry and Seth Faultersack.
     The family will greet friends from 2 to 3 p.m. Thursday, July 7, at the Full Gospel Assembly, Hartford, followed by the service to honor Tiffany’s memory at 3 p.m. Rev. Shannon Truelove will officiate. Burial will follow in Fairview Memorial Cemetery, Watervliet. Those wishing to give a memorial in Tiffany’s name may do so to the family. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with the arrangement process.

John S. Cade, of Hamilton NJ, passed away on Saturday [June 25, 2011] at Capital Health Systems at Fuld, Trenton, NJ. Born in Astoria, New York, he was a lifelong resident of Hamilton Township.
     A Marine Corp Veteran of WWII, he served in Guadalcanal, New Zealand and most of the Pacific area from 1941-1945. He was a [1941] graduate of Hartford High School, [Hartford MI] and attended Michigan State University. John was vice president of Gilbert and Mott for 32 years. He later owned and operated Cade Motor Company in Lawrenceville.
     Mr. Cade was an active member of Our Lady of Sorrow-St. Anthony's Parish, their PTA, Past President of Fathers Club at Notre Dame High School, former member of Hamilton Township Elks, lifelong member of Knights of Columbus Council #355, where he earned the designation of Fourth Degree Knight. He also enjoyed playing golf and was a member of both the Trenton Country Club and former member of the Boca Raton Country Club, Florida.
     Son of the late John and Agnes Cade, and brother of the late Fred Cade, he is survived by his wife of 62 years, Josephine K."Sherri" Cade; his daughter and son-in-law, Madeline and Edward Davis; his son and daughter-in-law, John S., Jr. and Michele Cade; and his grandchildren Amanda and Madeline Cade.
     Funeral services will be held Wednesday 8:30 a.m. at the Saul Colonial Home, 3795 Nottingham Way, Hamilton Square, NJ. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Sorrows RC Church, 3816 East State Street Ext, Mercerville, NJ. Interment will follow in St. John's Cemetery, Allentown, NJ.
Relatives and friends may call Tuesday evening from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Colonial Home.
     In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Animals in Distress or APAW, 102 Winding Way, Trenton, NJ 08620.

Robert A. Brooks of Paw Paw, MI passed away on June 19th, 2011. Bob, as he was known to most everyone, was born Dec. 8, 1933 the son of the late John and Robert Brooks d 6-19-2011 Thelma Brooks of Covert.
     Bob graduated from Covert High School in 1952. He served in the US Navy from 1955 to 1957, followed by four years of inactive reserves. He was honorably discharged from the United States Navy in November of 1961.
     Bob attended Greens Barber College in Detroit, followed by a two-year apprenticeship at various barbershops in the area. He passed the Michigan State Boards and obtained his master barber license in 1962. Bob purchased and operated a barbershop in Marcellus for over 30 years, along with a barbershop in Lawton for 21 years. He then barbered part time for Chuck's Barbershop in Paw Paw for a number of years.
     His hobbies included gardening, growing vegetables and flowers. He was an avid fishermen, he especially loved fishing for bluegills. He had a great appreciation for nature and wildlife. He loved spending time with his grandchildren. For many years he enjoyed spending winters in Florida with his wife Bev. Bob and Bev also attended the Paw Paw United Methodist church.
     Rev. Alvin Jingst married Bob to Beverly Pompey in Hartford at the Federated Church on July 3, 1954. Together they enjoyed traveling on many trips through the U.S., Canada, Eastern and Western Caribbean. He resided in Covert during his school years. After his marriage they settled in Paw Paw where they raised three sons.
     In addition to his wife of 57 years, he is survived by his sons, Bryan (Maureen) Brooks of Defiance, OH, Barry Brooks of Lynden, WA. and Bradley (Michelle) Brooks of Lawton; six Grandchildren, Sarah, Jackie, Brandy, Seth, Brandon and Levi. Also surviving are brothers John Brooks of Schoolcraft, Richard (Larue) Brooks of Mountain Home, AR, Franc (Betty) Brooks, of Schoolcraft, MI., Harold (Luann) Brooks of Edwards burg, MI; sisters, Jean (Bill) Connell of South Bend, IN., Wanda (Herb) Story of Buchanan, MI.; a sister-in-law Marcia (John) Molter of Watervliet; a brother-in-law Keith (Cheryl) Pompey of Lawrence; many nieces and nephews.
     In keeping with Bob's wishes cremation has taken place. Visitation will be Saturday, June 25th at 10:00 a.m. at the Adams Funeral Home in Paw Paw, with the memorial service following at 11:00 am. Burial of cremains will be at the Oak Grove Cemetery in Lawton. Following burial, family and friends are invited to share in a fellowship luncheon at the Paw Paw United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Paw Paw United Methodist Church or the American Cancer Society.

Note: Bob lived in Hartford during the 1950s. His wife, Bev, graduated from Hartford High School in 1954.

Flossie Dentler, 92, of Sister Lakes passed away Saturday evening, June 18, 2011 at her daughter’s residence.
Flossie Dentler d 6-18-2011

     Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday at Keeler General Baptist Church in Keeler. Burial will follow in Keeler Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. and 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home, 6548 Paw Paw Avenue, Coloma. Memorials may be made to Lakeland Hospice. A message of comfort may be left at www.duffieldpastrick.com.
     Flossie was born Oct. 23, 1918, in Steele, Mo., to John and Emily Robertson. She married Jarold Wilson on Jan. 24, 1934 and together raised seven children in the Berrien County area. In 1952, Flossie went to work at Heath Company, where she retired as a group leader after 28 years. She and Jarold were long time members of Keeler General Baptist Church and were active members of the Card and Visitation Ministries. Flossie loved to sew, making many of the children’s clothes as they grew.
     Flossie is survived by five daughters, Alice (Charles) Flowers of Decatur, Betty (Bill) Howard of Sister Lakes, Fritz (Glen) Flowers of Benton Harbor, Marjory Blaylock of Sister Lakes and Lucille (Wayne) Kerby of South Bend, Ind.; two sons, J.W. (Sandy) Wilson of Perrinton, Mich., and Larry (Debbie) Wilson of Bitely, Mich.; two halfbrothers, Jack and Henry Robertson, both of Tennessee; 22 grandchildren; 42 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren; three stepdaughters; eight stepgrandchildren and 15 stepgreat-grandchildren.
     She was preceded in death by her first husband, Jarold Wilson in 1993, her second husband, Henry Dentler, in 2005; and three sisters, Florence Williams, Alice Bennett, Alberta Hollingsworth, and a son-in-law, Billy Blaylock.

Eleanor Francis Martin, born Sept. 21, 1925, in Hollywood, Fla., died June 14, 2011, in Peoria, Ariz. Eleanor died peacefully after many years with multiple Eleanor Martin d 6-14-2011

sclerosis.
    Eleanor married Wendell Irwin Martin on Aug. 30, 1947. Together they had five children, Daniel, Susan, Sandra, David and Elizabeth.
    Eleanor worked in the Cadet Nursing Corps for the Indian Health Service, became a registered nurse and spent many years working in the ICU at Watervliet Community Hospital.
     Eleanor was an active member of the Hartford United Methodist Church, and after moving to Arizona in 2004 became a member of the Dove of the Desert United Methodist Church.
     Surviving Eleanor are her five children, along with their families: Daniel Martin, married to Alice, their seven children: Peter married to Marianne, Rebecca, Benjamin married to Heather, Jon married to Jennifer, Lindsey, married to Jacob Russell, Todd, and Laurel. Along with 10 great-grandchildren: Christopher, Hayden, Ethan, Danae, Ian, Violet, Penelope, Andrew, Elizabeth and Eli. Susan Raymond married to Stephen, their two children: Aubrey and Nicholas. Sandra Martin. David Martin married to Kathleen, their daughter Olivia. Elizabeth Pierotti married to Joseph, their five children: Lynn, Gina, Katherine, Andrew and Mark.
     In addition, she is survived by four sisters, Betty Brown, Laura Brown, Marian Liston and Linda Knaupe, and one brother, Niles Brown.
Preceding her in death were her parents, Orville and Susan Brown, her husband, Wendell Martin, her granddaughter, Allyson Martin, as well as her brothers, Charles, Dan and Lynn Brown.
     Eleanor is remembered as a supportive parent and grandparent, a prayer warrior and a positive influence in many people’s lives. She was known for her love of collecting bears and loons.
     A memorial service will be held in Arizona at 2 p.m. on Monday, June 20, at the Dove of the Desert United Methodist Church in Glendale, Ariz. A second memorial service will be held in Michigan at 10 a.m. on Friday, July 8, at the Hartford United Methodist Church, followed by burial of her urn in the Kings Cemetery in Devereaux, Mich., at 4 p.m. The family has requested that donations be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society in lieu of flowers. Please visit www.hansenmortuary.com to send online condolences.

Calvin Sadler - Cal’s life began Oct. 20, 1923, in Arkansas. He was one of six children born to Eddie and Ollie Sadler. His family moved around while he was growing up finally settling in Michigan.
     Cal proudly served in country in the United States Air Force during World War II. In 1947 Cal married Minnie Heuermann. Cal worked at the Watervliet Paper Mill and Whirlpool. He also farmed and was the owner of CR Sales and Sadler’s Trucking. Cal was an active member of Faith Lutheran Church in Coloma and Southwest Michigan Horse & Buggy Club.
     Cal’s loving family includes his wife, Minnie, of Hartford; two sisters, Mabel Kessler of Arizona and Sarah Hiler of Georgia; a special niece, Dawn Melvin of Hartford; and many nieces and nephews.
     Cal died Sunday, June 12, 2011, at Lakeland Community Hospital, Watervliet.
     Friends may visit with Cal’s family from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 15, at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet. Funeral services will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 16, at Faith Lutheran Church in Coloma, with Pastor Thomas Schuetze officiating. Burial will follow in Watervliet Cemetery, where the North Berrien Military Rites team will honor Cal for his service. Memorials may be made in Cal’s memory to Faith Lutheran Church in Coloma.

Brenda C. Scott, 59, of Hartford went to be with her Lord on Friday, June 10, 2011.
Brenda Scott d 6-10-2011

    Services celebrating her life will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 14, at the Red Arrow General Baptist Church, 3207 Red Arrow, in Benton Township. Burial will follow in Penn Yan Cemetery in Bainbridge Township. The family will receive friends and relatives from 5 to 7 p.m. today at the Fairplain Chapel of Florin Funeral Service in Benton Harbor. Memorials may be made to the Red Arrow General Baptist Church. Please share memories or photos at www.florin.net.
     Brenda was born June 21, 1951, in Phelps, Wis., to Walter and Barbara Feldten. She was a registered nurse who worked with InterCare for 10 years and Dr. Stafford for six years. Brenda was a member of the Red Arrow General Baptist Church and a member of the Secret Sisters Group at the church. She enjoyed reading, traveling, gospel music and loved to garden. She also loved the water and being outdoors. Brenda enjoyed laughing and had a sense of humor. She was always helpful to others. Brenda was a good mother and a precious person.
      She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Ronnie; her children, Barbara Scott of Hartford and Wayne (Linda) Scott of Watervliet; her mother, Barbara Kelley of Hartford; her brother, Robert Feldten of Benton Harbor; her sister, Kathy Terry of Hartford; her grandson, Joshua, and her two special friends, Sherry Still and Shelia Howarth.
     She was preceded in death by her father, Walter; her son, Steven; and her sister, Candice Krouse.

Myrtle M. Congdon Haney Dehority, 92, Booneville, Miss., formerly of Hartford, went to be with her Lord June 5, 2011, in Booneville, surrounded by her family. Myrtle was born Nov. 23, 1918, in Hartford to Clyde and Fannie Fay Butcher Hammond.
     She is survived by three children, Pat Baker, Jerry (Jeri) Congdon and Mike (Linda) Congdon. Also surviving is her brother, Clyde (Barb) Hammond; eight grandchildren; 14 greatgrandchildren; four greatgreat-grandchildren; and a large extended family.
     She was preceded in death by two husbands, Lewis Congdon and Wes Haney; six brothers, two sisters, a grandson, a great-granddaughter and a great-greatgrandson.
     Myrtle loved camping, playing bingo, quilting and family gatherings.
     Per her wishes cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name may be made to your local food bank or the charity of your choice.
     A graveside service will take place at 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 29, at North Shore Memory Gardens, Hagar Shores.

Luella Madonna (Wesaw) Lewis, 93, of Hartford passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, June 5, 2011, surrounded by her loving family.
     Luella was born Aug. 6, 1917, to Louis and Mary (Pamp-to-Pee) Wesaw. She was the ninth of 12 children and the last remaining survivor of the following siblings: Francis (Speed), John, Florence Augusta, Stella, Sylvester, Levi, Joseph, Matilda Shagonaby, Martin, Earl and Nelson.
     She was a devoted mother and grandmother who enjoyed spending time with her family, especially to her many nieces and nephews. A member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Luella loved to travel across the United States to attend the Kateri Tekakwitha conferences with other native elders. A respected member of the Pokagon Band of the Potawatomi Indians, Luella was one of the fluent speakers of the Potawatomi language.
     She grew up in Hartford near the Toquin area. She attended the Mount Pleasant Indian School and spent her late teens as a cook in the Chicago area. Luella retired from Midwest Timer Inc. in 1979. During her retirement she enjoyed going to garage sales, watching game shows and listening to music. She also enjoyed cooking.
     Luella married Morris Lewis Sr. and raised five children. She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Paul Dahlke; and four grandchildren, Donald, Michael, Patrick and Steven Tate.
     Luella is survived by her remaining children: Darlene (Dahlke) Tate, Mary (Lewis) Drake, Morris Lewis Jr. and Bonita (Lewis) Drake. Also surviving are grandchildren: Paula Vanlandingham, Mary Jane (Dan) Herron, Leanne Tate, Robert Drake, David Drake, Shelly (Steve) Smedberg, Susan Drake Scherer, Russell (Jenna) Drake, Tama Lewis, Rebecca (Sam) Richards and Holly (Michael) Weinhart; and 18 great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren.
     The family will welcome friends from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 8, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Hartford, where a rosary will be celebrated at 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial to honor her life will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 9, at the church, with Father Robert Flickinger as celebrant. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangements.

Johnny G. Morse, 76, of Keeler, passed away Friday, June 3, 2011, at his home with his family around him. Mr. Morse was born Oct. 16, 1935, in Sikeston , Mo. Johnny Morse d 6-3-2011

He was the son of John and Flora (Hodges) Morse, both of whom preceded him in passing. He was also preceded in death by a son, Timothy; two sisters, Irene Neal and Dorothy McClellan; and a nephew, Thomas “Tootie” Neal.
     Johnny retired from Burnette Foods of Keeler after 48 years of loyal employment. Outside of the workplace, he loved to elk hunt, watch John Wayne movies and spend time with his favorite little dog, Jack.
     Johnny is survived by his wife of 57 years, Jannie (Thomas) Morse of Keeler; a son, Larry Morse, at home; a daughter, Patricia Morse of Keeler; a son, Roger (Terri) Morse of Sister Lakes; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Donald (Dorothy) Morse of Keeler, and Bill (Wanda) Morse of Hartford.
     The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, June 6, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service to honor his memory will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 7, at the funeral home. Pastor Steven Bisbee of the Hartford General Baptist Church will officiate. Johnny will be laid to rest in Keeler Cemetery. Those wishing to give a memorial in Johnny’s name may do so to the family.

Craig A. Councell, 48, of Richland, passed away unexpectedly June 2, 2011, at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo.
Craig Councell d 6-2-2011

     He was born Jan. 29, 1963, in Kalamazoo, the son of Kenneth and Sondra (Beznoska) Councell. Craig was a 1981 graduate of Hartford High School and was employed by Air Technology in Grand Rapids. He was a gentleman farmer, loved horses, was a soccer coach for three years, and was reserve deputy for the Kalamazoo County Sheriff's Department. Craig was very generous with his time, helping his family and friends whenever needed. He was a loving husband, father, son, brother and friend to many and will be greatly missed.
     On March 27, 1999, Craig was united in marriage to Brenda Hill, who survives. Also surviving are his parents, Ken and Sondra Councell of Hartford; three children, Brandon, Zachary and Kory; brother, Kevin Councell of Lawrence; niece, Kaytlyn Councell; nephew, Kristopher Councell; three uncles, Russell Councell of Otsego, James Beznoska of Comstock and Rick Beznoska of Richland; father-in-law, William Hill Jr. of Comstock; mother-in-law, Effie Hill of Cooper Twp.; and four sisters and a brother-in-law.
     Funeral services for Craig will be at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, June 8 at Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick Street, Kalamazoo. Interment will follow in Prairie Home Cemetery, Richland. Friends may visit with the family from 5 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 7 at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be directed to the family. Please visit www.langelands.com to sign, view, or print Craig's online guestbook or leave a condolence to the family.

Harold E. Shouse Sr., 72, of Hartford died June 2 at Community Hospital in Watervliet. Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Coloma, 468-6000.
Harold was born, May 24, 1939 in Danville, Illinois.

Arthur Eugene Laskey, 83 of Hartford, died Saturday, May 28, 2011 at home. Leonard Funeral Home, Lawrence, 674-8131.

Joe H. Bunn, 78, of Belleview, Fla., passed away on Friday, May 27, 2011, at his residence.
     Joe was born in McKenzie, Tenn., and moved to Belleview in 1991 from Hartford, and was the owner of Joe’s Bar in Hartford from 1972 until his son (Joe) took over in 1988 – selling in 2002. He was an Army veteran of the Korean War and past member of the American Legion in Hartford. Joe left behind many friends from the VBSC Hartford, and the “Offices” in Belleview. He was also an avid NASCAR fan.
     Mr. Bunn is survived by his spouse, Janet Bunn; daughters, Pam Brown of Coloma, Julie Smith of Hartford, Shelly (Freddie) Nelson of Rockwood, Tenn.; sons, Rob (Paula) Bunn of Paw Paw, Joe (Michelle) Bunn of Summerfield, Fla., William (Mary) Bunn of Clarkesville, Tenn.; 12 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; brother, Wayne Bunn – Lawton/Hartford; sister, Betty (Jerry) Steenwyk of Hartford; and many nieces and nephews.
     He was predeceased by his father, Charlie Bunn, mother, Gladys Bunn; and brother, Charles L. Bunn of Hartford.
     A memorial service will be held at a later date with no viewing.
     Donations may be made to Hospice of Marion County, P.O. Box 4860, Ocala, FL 34478-4860.

Update: A memorial gathering for Joe H. Bunn, formerly of Hartford, who died May 27, 2011, in Florida, will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, July 16, at the Van Buren Sportsmans Club in Hartford, at 687 North.

Jack C. Sinclair, 91, of Hartford, former newspaper man, died on Friday, May 27, 2011. He was born on Nov. 20, 1919, in Gladstone, Mich., to George and Leafy Sinclair.
     Married for nearly 70 years, he is survived by his wife, Helen; two sons, Pete (Judy) of Hartford and David (Debbie) of Fort Myers, Fla.; grandchildren, Mike Sinclair, Kelly (Randy) Springer, Scott (Kim) Sinclair and Robin Sinclair; along with five great-grandchildren.
    Sinclair started his newspaper career at the Delta Reporter while attending Gladstone High School. He continued at Michigan State University serving as editor of the State News. He went on to work at the Ann Arbor News and then became state editor of the Detroit Free Press.
     In 1945 he and his wife formed Sinclair Publications (now Sinclair Graphics) and purchased the Day Spring weekly newspaper in Hartford. In later years he taught journalism at Southwestern Michigan College and was managing editor of the Niles Daily Star and sold printing for Sinclair Graphics.
     Sinclair was very active in local and state organizations. He was a past president of the Michigan Press Association, a member of the Michigan Press Photographers Association and a life member of the Masonic Lodge of Ann Arbor. He belonged to the Clan Sinclair Society of North America.
     He was a charter member of the Hartford Lions Club and a longtime member of the Niles Lions Club. He was a founding member of the Hartford Combined Appeal and served on the Community Hospital Board of Directors. An American Red Cross supporter, he was a multi-gallon blood donor. He was chairman of Hartford’s first Charter Commission and an honorary member of the Hartford Fire Department.
     Private services are being held. Memorial donations may be given to the Hartford Lions Club Sight Fund or the Hartford Fire Department. Those who would like to leave the family a message of comfort or share a memory in the online guestbook may do so at www.duffieldpastrick.com. Arrangements are entrusted to Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home in Coloma.

Arthur Warren Frazier, 76, of Eau Claire passed away Saturday, May 21, 2011 at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph.
Arthur Frazier d 5-21-2011

     A Celebration of Life Eternal will be held 10 a.m. Thursday at Trinity Lutheran Church, Court and Market streets, St. Joseph. Burial will follow at Riverview Cemetery, St. Joseph. Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Starks and Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph. Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church-St. Joseph or the Donor’s Choice. Those wishing to sign Art’s Memory Book online may do so at www. starks-menchinger.com.
     Art was born Oct. 9, 1934, in Keeler, Mich., to Henry & Daisy (Monger) Frazier. He was raised by Ed and Sadie Jaffke in Coloma and graduated from Coloma High School – class of 1952. Art served his country in the United States Army, stationed in Germany.
     On Feb. 24, 1984, he married the former Janet Dasse Schmal in St. Joseph. He retired in 1995 after 30 years as a route salesman with Oven Fresh Bakeries, Grand Rapids. Art’s front license plate on his car read “Retired Breadman – Just Loafin’.” Following retirement, he and Janet enjoyed winters in Sarasota, Fla., at the Sun-N-Fun RV Park. In his spare time, Art enjoyed watching his grandchildren’s sporting events and rooting for his favorite sports teams – the Cubs, Lions, Notre Dame and Tennessee women’s basketball.
     Art is survived by his wife Janet; his children – Mark Frazier of Detroit, Vicki (Joe) Hanko of Comstock Park, Mich., Christopher Frazier of Denver, Colleen (Ray) Morlock of Coloma, Brett (Marie) Frazier of Berrien Springs, Tracy Thommen of Bristol, Pa.; step-children Jeffery Schmal of Buchanan, Kristine (Colin) Gavin of Naperville, Ill.; 10 grandchildren – Stephanie (Joe) Golden, Kylee Morlock, Bailey Evans, Kyle, Kaylie and Dylan Thommen, Ronald Schmal, Nicole (Navah) Hurt, Bradley Hattenbach and Luke Gavin; two sisters-in-law – Eleanor Frazier of Watervliet and Marge Frazier of Illinois; and numerous nieces and nephews.
     He was preceded in death by six brothers and sisters – infant Francis Frazier, Daisy (Fred) Aldrich, Elmer Frazier, Pat (Jim) Colman, Eva (Charles) Muvrin, Henry Frazier and his step-son Michael Schmal in 1989.

Patricia Ann Rinehart, Mattawan MI, was born May 24, 1945, in Lawrence, Michigan, the daughter of the late Joseph and Lilah (Clark) Jordan and passed away May 20, 2011, in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
    Pat grew up in Hartford, MI, and was a 1963 graduate of Hartford High School. She married Larry Rinehart on September 18, 1965 and was a longtime area resident of Mattawan MI. For the past 20 years, she was employed at the Antwerp Sunshine Library in Mattawan.
     Pat enjoyed being a homemaker, flower gardening and loved spending time with her family, especially with grandchildren.
     Surviving are her husband, Larry Rinehart of Mattawan; two children, Timothy (Dawn) Rinehart of Mattawan and Amy (Jeff) Dill of Lawton; four grandchildren, Andrew and Allison Rinehart, Hannah and Nicholas Dill; six siblings, Kenneth (Judy) Jordan, Shirley (Larry) Anchor, Roger (Laurel) Jordan, Thomas (Lois) Jordan, William (Darlene) Jordan, Betty Jordan and many nieces and nephews.
     The family will receive friends on Monday from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 South 9th Street where a service to celebrate Pat's life will be held 11:00 AM Tuesday with Pastor James Dyke officiating. Interment will follow in Mattawan Maple Grove Cemetery. Memorials in Pat's memory may be directed to West Michigan Cancer Center or Hospice Care of SW Michigan. An online guestbook, memories, and condolences for the family are available at www.langelands.com.

Kenneth James Staunton, 28, of Lawrence passed away peacefully on May 22, 2011, with his beloved wife, Amanda, and his parents by his side following a Kenneth Staunton d 5-22-2011 lifelong battle with cystic fibrosis.
     Kenneth was born on Jan. 26, 1983, in Kalamazoo, the son of Daniel and Christine (Maurig) Staunton. Ken graduated from Hartford High School in 2001. He was chosen Marketing Technology Student of the Year from the Van Buren Technology Center, earned two business degrees from Kalamazoo Valley Community College and a bachelor’s degree in business from Miller College.
     He was blessed to have met the love of his life eleven years ago, who later became his wife. Amanda (Gable) Staunton never left his side during his courageous battle with C.F. and his double-lung transplant.
     Kenneth was very proudly a member of the Masonic Lodge in Lawrence, Battle Creek Shriners, 32nd Degree Scottish Rite of Grand Rapids and the Knights Templar. Ken also had a passion for animals of all species, photography and the film industry – playing parts in movies, writing screenplays and producing short films. He had a wonderful sense of humor and an inner strength that inspired all who were lucky enough to meet him.
     Kenneth is survived by his wife, Amanda; parents, Daniel and Christine of Lawrence; grandfather, Brian Maurig of Paw Paw; grandmother, May Staunton of Lawrence; greatgrandmother, Elsie Maurig of St. Joseph; sisters, Nicole (Mathew) McCamman of Parchment and Shelley Staunton of Los Angeles; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.
     In keeping with Ken’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be a celebration of his life at 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 19, at the Lions Club in Lawrence. Memorials may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation or to the family. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangement process.

Orville ‘Artie’ Goss, South Haven - Artie’s life began on Jan. 26, 1951 in Hartford, the son of Orville and Mildred R. (Lewis) Goss.
     He served his country in the United States Army during Vietnam, earning a Purple Heart amongst other medals and citations. Artie worked as an excavator. He was a member of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians.
     He is survived by his sister Marlene Bradley of South Haven, Charlotte Gunter of Arkansas, Colleen Frost of Detroit and brother Roger Frost of Fowlerville, Mich. Children Angel Morseau of Baraga and George Morseau of Hartford. Nephews Ryan, Thomas, Mark and Roger Smith, significant other Lori Ruiz and many good friends.
     Artie passed away on May 19, 2011 at his home. He is preceded in death by sister Cheryl Moore and brother Kenneth Frost.
     His family will gather with friends today from 3 to 6 p.m. at Yazel and Clark Chapel where his funeral service will be held on Monday at 11 a.m. He will be laid to rest at Sacred Heart of Mary Catholic Cemetery (Silver Creek) following the service. Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of Artie at www.yazel-clark.com.

Beverly Mable Hammond Russell was born on May 23, 1928, in Hartford, to Burnham and Dola Hammond. She passed away in Clermont, Fla., on May 15, Beverly Hammond Russell d 5-15-2011

2011, just short of turning 83. Beverly was mostly a home maker, but she also worked for Red’s Real Estate, and earlier for insurance and Hartford Fruit Exchange. She worked at the Fruit Exchange during World War II to help with the shortage of men. One kind, redheaded man, Charles “Red” Russell, had not been drafted and they met in the orchard, fell in love, were married and had two precious boys, Cameron Russell and Sheldon Russell. Sadly, Beverly was preceded in death by Charles and Sheldon.
     Beverly was kindhearted, generous and always cheerful. She was a dedicated woman in service for the Lord. She volunteered teaching Cradle Roll, kindergarten and other children’s classes in her church for 25 years. She and Red were Pathfinder Leaders in their church’s co-ed scouts group for many years.
     She loved singing, birding and lady bugs. She was creative and artistic. When younger she was in a synchronized swimming group, Glee Club, Triple Trio singing group and played clarinet in the marching band.
     Beverly is survived by her sister and brothers: Marilyn Armstrong, Charlene “Dut” Hammond and Newell Hammond. She is also survived by her son, Cam Russell, and his three daughters, Jennifer Matoske, April Mundall (and her four boys Moses, Zadok, Marcus and Clayton), and Kami Harris.
     The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, May 20, at Hartford S.D.A. Church. Beverly will then be laid to rest at the Maple Hill Cemetery waiting in the grave until Jesus comes. The Calvin Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

NOTE: Beverly was a 1946 Hartford High School graduate.

David Wayne Burgh, age 51 of Rockford, Illinois, formerly of Hartford, passed away suddenly on Monday, May 9, 2011 at home.
David was born on January 26, 1960 the son of Richard and Dorothy (Wilson) Burgh Sr. His father passed away on March 24, 2007. David is survived by his mother; Dorothy, a brother; Richard Burgh Jr. of Hartford; a sister; Dorothy (Reinaldo) Lopez of Aurora, Illinois., and their children, Tina, Sandy, Rey, Edward, Randy, Robert, Danny and Lisa. He is also survived by an aunt; Waneta Skipper of Hartford, two uncles; Kenneth Wilson of Hartford and Ralph (Opal) Wilson of Streamwood, Illinois.
The family will greet friends from 6 to 8 P.M.; Friday; June 3 at Calvin Funeral Home; Hartford. The memorial service to honor David's memory will commence at noon; Saturday, June 4 at the funeral home. David's ashes will be inurned with his father in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Those wishing to give a memorial in David's name may do so to the family.

James M. Mayhak, 69, of Bangor passed away Sunday, May 8, 2011, in Ansted, W.Va.
     The family will meet friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 12, at Bangor Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Friday at the Bangor Free Methodist Church, with Pastor Daniel Stout officiating. The family suggests memorials be made to the Bangor Free Methodist Church, American Diabetes or Kidney Foundation. Interment will follow in Arlington Hill Cemetery.
     Jim was born Nov. 24, 1941, in Lawrence, the son of Justus and Helen (Abernathy) Mayhak and was raised in the Hartford area. He was a member of the Free Methodist Church, where he was Lay Delegate and a member of the Church Board.
     Surviving are his wife, Karen, of 42 years; three children, Melissa (Lee) Olger of Euless, Texas, Seth Mayhak of Bangor and Monica (John) Mulac of Toledo, Ohio; four grandchildren, Holly and MacKenzie Olger, and Mya and Taylor James Mulac.
     He was preceded in death by two infant sisters.

NOTE: James was a 1960 Hartford High School graduate.

Edna E. Barden, 89, of Clermont, Fla., formerly of Hartford, passed away on May 7, 2011, in Clermont. Burial will be in Watervliet at a later date.
Mrs. Barden was preceded in death by her husband, Don H. Barden Sr.; brothers, Norman Elsner and Leonard Elsner; and a sister, Dorothy Spitzer.
She is survived by a daughter, Dorothy J. Brown; son, Don H. Barden Jr.; granddaughter, Donna S. Brown; great-grandson, Mason A. Bowman; and great-granddaughter, Hillary D. Bowman.

Richard Melvin ‘Red’ Thomas Sr. , Watervliet, died Thursday, May 5, 2011, at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo.
     Red’s life began on Nov. 17, 1934, in Bangor. He grew up in Hartford. While on a double date, Red met Wathada and the first words he said to her were, “Hello, Sunshine.” They married Sept. 12, 1953. They began their life together in Bangor, where Red worked for 21 years, most of that time as a die cast engineer and salesman for Du-Wel Metal Products. Seeking a better climate, Red and Wathada moved to southern California, where he worked for Die Cast Products for 19 years in Gardena, Calif. In July of 1997 they retired and came home to Michigan and settled in Watervliet. As teenagers, Red and Wathada loved to dance ballroom style, winning every contest they entered. Red was a wonderful wood worker and enjoyed hunting, fishing and golfing. When he lived in California, Red was a member of the Elks Lodge and after moving back here he joined the Moose Lodge in South Haven.
     Red’s greatest enjoyment came in spending time with his family, which includes: his wife, Wathada; three children – Dianne (Alan) Kessler of Fairhope, Ala., Richard “Rick” (Polly) Thomas Jr. of Decatur and John “JT” (Lorri) Thomas of Watervliet; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two very dear cousins, Jack Treat of Grand Haven and Ralph Till of South Haven; and three nephews.
     His parents, William and Christie (Treat) Thomas; a brother, Bernarde Thomas; and a great-granddaughter, Josaline, preceded Red in death.
     Friends may visit with Red’s family Tuesday, May 10, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, May 11, at 11 a.m., at the funeral home, with burial following in Watervliet Cemetery. Memorials may be made in Red’s memory to Bangor Church of Christ.

NOTE: Richard was from the class of 1952 at Hartford High School.

Rindfield, Arthur F., Lawrence, MI, died on Wednesday evening, May 4, 2011, in Kalamazoo, MI. He was born July 13, 1929, in Berrien Springs, MI the Rindfield, Arthur d 5-4-2011 youngest of 24 children to David and Mary (Bomgard) Rindfield.
     He lived most of his life in Lawrence where he worked in farming and construction. On March 4, 1950, Arthur was united in marriage with the former Delores Greening, who preceded him in death on September 4, 1995. Arthur was also preceded in death by a son, Kimm Scott Rindfiled, his parents and 21 siblings.
     Surviving are: three daughters, Cindy Kuehl of Paw Paw, Valerie (Rich) Crosbie of Paw Paw and KeVen (Ed) Riley of Hartford; three sons, Rowdy Rindfield, Todd Rindfield and David (Tracie) Rindfield all of Lawrence; 12 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Lydia Blosser of Berrien Springs and Lila Saper of Chicago, IL; and many, many nieces and nephews.
     A gathering of family and friends will be held Saturday afternoon at Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 S. 9^th Street from 2:00 until 3:00, when an informal celebration of Arthurs life will be led by Greg Alburtus.
     Interment in Hill Cemetery in Lawrence will follow. Please visit www.langelands.com to sign Arthur’s online guest book or leave a condolence to his family.

Grace Ann Smith, 50, was born Dec. 23, 1961, in Eudora, Ark. She passed away May 3, 2011, at the age of 50, at Lakeland Community Hospital, Watervliet.
      Grace was a resident of Hartford. She was well known for being a fun, caring and giving person. She worked as an adult foster caregiver in Bangor.
      She is survived by her longtime companion, Boyd Brock; her two sons, Stevie and Willie Smith; her daughter, Victoria Smith; three uncles, Eddie, Wilbert and JD Smith; two aunts, Gloria House and Louise; and two cousins, Jeannine and Pier Smith. She was predeceased by her mother, Earlene, in January 2006.
      A memorial service for Grace will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 14, at the Calvin Funeral Home, 8 East Main Street, Hartford. Any donations towards this memorial can be given to the funeral home.

Forrest E. Wessendorf, 68, of Eau Claire passed away Monday, April 25, 2011, in the comfort of his family.
Forrest Wessendorf d 4-25-2011      A Celebration of Life service will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 28, at Starks & Menchinger Family Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph, with Pastor Stephen Small officiating.
     Burial will be held at 11:30 a.m. Friday, April 29, at Fort Custer National Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Hospice at Home. Those wishing to sign the memory book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger. com.
     Forrest was born Jan. 23, 1943, in St. Joseph to Albert Jr. and Virgil (Shire) Wessendorf. Forrest served his country in the United States Navy and retired as Lieutenant Commander and Chaplain in 1994. He was a member of the VFW in Watervliet. Forrest loved and served the Lord. He also loved spending time with his family.
     Forrest is survived by his siblings, Shirley (John) Strawbridge of Eau Claire, William Wessendorf of South Bend, Ind., Jean Wessendorf of Keeler and David (Rosellen) Wessendorf of Rio Rico, Ariz.; and numerous nieces and nephews.
     Forrest was preceded in death by his parents.

NOTE: Forrest was a 1961 Hartford High School graduate.

William M. “Uncle” Stumpf, age 85, of Chesterton passed away Saturday April 23, 2011 at the Waters of Duneland Nursing Center. He was born February 2, 1926 in Hartford, MI to William and Marion (Ainsworth) Stumpf.
     His family moved to Chesterton in 1933 and he has been an area resident ever since. He was a veteran of the US Navy, US Marine Corps, and the US Army completing over twenty years combined service. He was a life member of the Valparaiso VFW Post, a member of the Chesterton American Legion Post, and the Chesterton Loyal Order of the Moose. He was an avid bowler and volunteered to work the Pit Gate at Illiana Motor Speedway for several years. He was also a member Faith Mission Church.
     He is survived by one sister Laura Wise of Chesterton, several nieces and nephews, and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, and three sisters Maybelle Burden, Hattie Stumpf, and Margaret Hollis.
     Funeral services will be 11:00 am Friday April 29, 2011 at Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home 517 Broadway Chesterton, Indiana 46304 with Rev. Kenneth Dishman officiating. Burial will follow at Furnessville Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4-8 pm on Thursday April 28, 2011 at the Funeral Home. Memorial gifts are preferred to the Faith Mission Church 818 N. 500 W. Valparaiso, IN 46383. Online condolences may be submitted at www.ee-fh.com.

Jacob Edward Hastings, Bangor, 3-month-old son of Cody Hastings and Pamela Drane (HHS 2004), was called home by the Lord on Friday, April 15, 2011, at South Haven Community Hospital.
Jacob was born Jan. 19, 2011, in Kalamazoo. He was such a joy to his parents, his sister, Isabella Hastings, his brother, Cameron Hastings, his grandparents, Anita and Rick Drane, Sandra and Paul Hastings, and the many aunts, uncles, cousins and other family members.
There will be a private family gathering at a later date. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with the arrangement process.

Josef Paul Heinisch, 77, of Hartford, passed away on Wednesday, March 30, 2011, at Royalton Manor, St. Joseph.
Josef Heinisch d 3-30-2011

     Josef was born June 18, 1933, in Jabing Burgenland, Austria. He moved to this country at an early age. He enlisted in the United States Air Force and served proudly during the Korean War.
     Josef married Rosemary Gustavson on Oct. 27, 1962, and she survives, along with two sons, Joseph (Cheryl) Heinisch of Hartford and James (Patricia) Heinisch of Edwardsburg; a daughter, Christine Heinisch of Tucson, Ariz.; and five grandchildren, Matthew Heinisch, Lisa Heinisch, Ryan Heinisch, Emily Heinisch and Michael Heinisch. He is also “Grampa Hi-Hi” to Sula Nguyen; sister-in-law, Bette Reed; and a brother, Frank (Denise) Werderitsch.
     Josef retired from the United States Postal Service in Saint Joseph in 1996 after 31 years of loyal service. He was a faithful member and enjoyed attending the Hartford United Methodist Church. He loved going out for coffee with family and friends at both Cross’ Corner and the Panel Room. But his most treasured times were spent in the company of his family, as he loved his wife, children and grandchildren so much.
     Josef was preceded in passing by his parents.
     As per Josef’s wishes, cremation has taken place. The family will welcome friends from 3:30 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 3, at the Hartford United Methodist Church, where a memorial service to honor his memory will commence at 4 p.m. The Rev. Ronald Hansen will serve as officiant. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations in Josef’s name be made to the church. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangement process.

Alice Davis - Alice’s life began March 25, 1918, in Riverside. She grew up on the family farm in Riverside. After high school she continued her education at Nazareth College and Borgess School of Nursing. Upon completing her nursing degree she went to work at Watervliet Community Hospital. Alice also helped her husband, William, run their dairy farm in Hartford.
     Alice’s loving family includes her daughter, Nanette Light of Hartford; three grandsons, Benjamin, John and Jamie; a great-granddaughter, Natalle; three sisters, Margaret Foulkes of St. Joseph, Agness Greiner of Hart, Mich., and Helen Herman of Watervliet; and many nieces and nephews.
     Alice died Tuesday, March 29, 2011, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph. Her husband William, a son John Edward, two daughters, Mary Alice and Margaret, her parents, William and Mary (Heffron) Daley, two brothers, and two sisters preceded Alice in death.
     Friends may visit with Alice’s family from 5 to 7 p.m. today, March 31, with a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Friday, April 1, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Watervliet. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Watervliet. Memorials may be made in Alice’s memory to Hospice.

Carla Marion Empson - born Feb. 17, 1948, Carla M. Empson passed away at Bronson Hospital on March 26, 2011, with her loving husband, John A. Empson, at her side. Her cremains will be honored in a garden celebration of her life on Saturday, April 2, between 2 and 5 p.m. at the Empson residence, 64203 CR 372 in Hartford.
     Previously married, Carla raised four children, worked her way through college and became a respected special education teacher. She married John on Dec. 3, 1994. Her successful teaching career ended in 2006 when she retired from Hartford Public Schools after 28 years. Carla’s talents in crafting and gardening are well known by her many friends and family. She loved to read and adored her pets.
     Carla is survived by her husband, John; two sons, Brian and Brad Keech of Otsego; a daughter, Kelly Keech of Slidel, La.; a stepdaughter, Shannon Empson; a stepson, Shane Empson; several grandchildren, one brother, and three sisters; her mother and stepfather, Kip and Pat Taylor of Traverse City; and her stepmother, Alice Deem of Portage.
     Carla was preceded in death by her father, Carl Deem, and son, Scott Keech. She was loved dearly and will be greatly missed.

Evelyn Marie Winslow, 92, of Hartford, passed away on Thursday, March 10, 2011, at Bronson Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Lawton, Mich.
Evelyn Winslow d 3-10-2011

     Evelyn was born Jan. 16, 1919, in Dorr, Wis., the daughter of Walter and Mary (Bable) Sanders, both of whom preceded her in passing. Evelyn married Leland Winslow, who also preceded her in passing, along with a daughter, Gloria Morris; five brothers, Ed, Earl, Wesley, Harold and Robert; and two sisters, Margaret and Emily.
     Evelyn is survived by three daughters, Mary Wildt of South Haven, Ruth (Wayne) Reynolds of Lawrence and Lanita Winslow of Williamston. She is also survived by eight grandchildren, Dawn (Rick) Berbert, Cheryl (Mark) Horowitz, Diane (Cecil) Wismer, Vance (Sharlon) Wildt, Wylie Wildt, Wynn (Charles) Madgyesi, Robin (Robert) Lancaster and Eric (Shylah) Reynolds; 12 greatgrandchildren, Joshua, Benjamin, CJ, Trevor, Cheyenne, Levi, Stephene, Alexis, Erica, Devin, Lanna and Emerald; and numerous nieces and nephews.
     Evelyn was formerly employed at Adams Electronics in Bangor, Auto Specialties in Hartford, the Paper Mill in Kalamazoo, and was retired from DuWell Corporation in Hartford.
     The family will receive friends on Monday, March 14, from noon to 1 p.m. at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Hartford, where at 1 p.m. the Mass of Christian Burial to honor her memory will commence. Father John Ambrose of the St. Joseph Catholic Church of Watervliet will be the celebrant. Evelyn will be laid to rest in Hill Cemetery, Lawrence. In lieu of memorials, the family has asked that you plant a flower or tree in Evelyn’s memory. The family is being helped by Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford.

Shirley Lois Bouma passed quietly on March 5, 2011. She was born Dec. 20, 1927, to Adolf and Gertrude Burmeister in Chicago. Her family moved to Hartford in 1942.
She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Willis Bouma. Together they had three children, Richard (Millie) Bouma of Subiaco, Ark., Sandra (Terry) Clark of Cherokee Village, Ark., and Lori Ann (James) Whorton of Blaine, Ark.; nine grandchildren, and three greatgrandchildren; her cousin Lois (Leo) Latus resides in Hartford.
Friends may visit with Shirley’s family from 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 9, with funeral services following at 11 a.m. at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet. Memorials may be made in Shirley’s memory to North Berrien Senior Center or VFW.

NOTE: Shirley was a 1946 Hartford High School graduate.

Reverend Alvin P. Jingst, 90, formerly of Iowa City, went to be with his Lord, Thursday, March 3, 2011.
Rev. Alvin Jingst d 3-3-2011

     Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, March 7, 2011, at the Faith Baptist Church in Iowa City, with burial to follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service in Iowa City. In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established in Alvin’s name. Online condolences may be sent to his family through the web www.gayandciha.com.
     Alvin Paul Jingst was born August 15, 1920 in Warsaw, Illinois; the son of Cecil and Clara (Limkemann) Jingst. He graduated from high school in Warsaw and went on to attend Moody Bible Institute and Northern Baptist Seminary both in Chicago. In May of 1945 Alvin married Ruth Ingram. He served the Lord preaching in Michigan, Kansas and Illinois before moving to Iowa City in 1966. Here he continued to preach and work for the University of Iowa General Stores for over 16 years. After retirement from the University he continued preaching at local care centers and hospitals. Alvin was a long time member of Faith Baptist Church in Iowa City. He and his wife have resided in Regency Care Center, Norwalk, Iowa, for the last several years.
     Alvin’s family includes his wife, Ruth; son Charles “Chuck” (Sharon) Jingst of Des Moines; grandchildren, Allen (Amy) Jingst, Eric (Michelle) Jingst, Justin and Casey Patterson; sister, Pauline Kimble of Jerseyville, IL; sister-in-law, Esther Jingst of Sebring, FL and Sharon Patterson, Peter’s longtime friend. Alvin was preceded in death by their son, Peter [1998]; 2 brothers and 2 sisters.
     Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service in Iowa City is caring for Alvin’s family and his services. Visitation will be Sunday, March 6, 2011, 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Gay & Ciha Funeral Home, 2720 Muscatine Ave, Iowa City IA. Funeral service will be Monday, March 7, 2011, 1:00 p.m. at Faith Baptist Church, 1251 Village Rd, Iowa City IA 52240.

NOTE: Rev. Jingst was Pastor of the Hartford Federated Church, Hartford Michigan from 1947-1956.

Charles J. Hanko passed away Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2011, at his home.
     Chuck was born June 15, 1938, in Hartford, the son of Joe and Betty (Buskirk) Hanko, and had been a lifelong resident of the Bangor area. Chuck had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone. He enjoyed fishing, golf, auto racing, his dogs, and time spent with his family. He retired from Consumers Concrete in 2002 and most recently drove bus for Gobles Public Schools.
     He is survived by his wife, Karen, four children, Tony (Ann Marie) Lahndorf, Michelle (Joe) Bunn, Becky (Mike) Stone and Shannon (Chad) Hanko; four stepchildren, Vila (Steve) Massey, Jim (Missy) Abbott, Doug (Brenda) Abbott and Tom (Diana) Abbott; 16 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandson, one brother, five sisters and many nieces and nephews.
     He was preceded in death by his parents, one stepson, Frank Abbott, and a bother, Mike Edwards.
     According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will take place at 1 p.m. March 5, the Simpson United Methodist Church in Bangor with the Pastor Peter Cook officiating.

Ruth Naomi Steele, of Keeler, passed on Saturday, Feb. 19, 2011, at Blodgett Hospital in Grand Rapids.
     She was born in Keeler on May 15, 1919, to Charles and Gertrude (Steinhoff) Bailey, early settlers in the Hartford area.
     She was preceded in death by her husband, Alfred M. Steele of Lawrence.
     Survivors include three daughters, Helen Sullivan of Holland, Mich., Catherine Campos of San Antonio, Texas, and Sherie Kosten (Ken) of Gowen, Mich.; five grandchildren, four great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
     Upon her request, cremation has taken place and a family memorial service is planned in the spring. Memorials may be made to the Hartford Public Library in Hartford, or a charity of choice. Arrangements by Bliss-Witters & Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs, Mich. www.blisswitterspike.com.

William W. Traver, 68, of Hartford went to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, Feb. 20, 2011, at home, surrounded by his family.
William W. Traver d 2-20-2011

     Wally, as he was known by most everyone, was born Dec. 21, 1942, in Lawrence to William and Florine (Hammond) Traver, both of whom preceded him in passing. Wally was also preceded by his brother, James Davis Traver.
     Wally lived in Hartford his entire life. On June 29, 1963, he married the love of his life, Nancy Lynne Stock. Wally and Nancy brought into this world two sons, Brian (Becky) Traver and Jeff (Heidi) Traver, both of Hartford, and a daughter, Holly (Rob) Hoadley of New Buffalo. They in turn made the Traver family grow by giving Wally and Nancy nine grandchildren, Krista, Audrey, Luke, Madison, and Skyler and Riley Traver, Dylan, Evelynn and Traver Hoadley, and one great-grandson, Gavin Collins. Wally is also survived by three sisters, Arletta Meachum of Hartford, Muriel Fellows of Coloma and Margaret (James) Lindsey of Texarkana, Ark.
    Wally and Nancy owned and operated Travers Archery Range for 15 years. He was involved in giving back to the community kids through his love of coaching sports. He coached baseball at all levels for 20 years and ninth-grade basketball for 10 years. If he wasn’t coaching from the bench, he would definitely be giving “instructions” from the stands.
     Wally also had a love for the outdoors. He took several of his friends and family on elk hunting trips to Colorado each September, guiding the new elk hunters in the mountains. He instilled in his grandchildren a love and respect for all things in the outdoors. He was also an avid fisherman, and after he retired from Bosch with 30 years of service as an electrician he was able to spend winters in Avon Park, Fla., allowing him to continue his passion for fishing year-round.
     Wally loved to build anything and everything. If it could be made out of wood or metal, he could build it. If you couldn’t find him, he was probably out in the wood shop working on his next project. In addition to his own house, he helped his two sons build their homes.
    His love for his savior led him on two missions to the Dominican Republic, building churches for fellow Christians. He loved to share with others his love of the Lord. Through writing and singing Christian music he was able to touch and influence many lives. It was nothing for him to sit down and an hour later have a new song telling others about the love of Jesus Christ. His strong faith enabled him to face his six year battle with cancer with courage knowing that he would have eternal life.
     The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 24, at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford. A service to honor Wally’s memory will commence at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 25, at His Place Cathedral of Faith in Covert. Pastor Wayne Davis will officiate. Wally will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations in Wally’s name be made to the West Michigan Cancer Center in Kalamazoo.

NOTE: Wally was a 1961 Hartford High School graduate.

Thomas John Kendzior, 61, of Hartford, passed away suddenly on Friday, Feb. 18, 2011, at Bronson Methodist Hospital, Kalamazoo.
     Tom, as he was known by many, was born Dec. 21, 1949, in Watervliet, the son of John and Mary (Walker) Kendzior. Tom formerly owned and operated the Mattawan Quik Shop, located just off the Mattawan exit on I-94. He also drove truck, hauling hazardous material for a number of years.
     Tom is survived by his wife, Vivian, whom he married on April 16, 1977; two sons, Eric Kendzior of Colorado Springs, Colo., Daniel and Feiyan Smith of Paw Paw; a daughter, Lisa Smith of Kalamazoo; a granddaughter, Kennedy Smith of Kalamazoo; his mother, Mary Kendzior of Hartford; and a brother; William Kendzior of Hartford. Tom is also survived by a sister-in-law, Gloria Kendzior of Hartford; his nieces and nephews, Jaclyn Csonka of Dearborn Heights, Robert Kendzior Jr. of Louisiana, Jean Hoeckleberg of Hartford, Jerry Kendzior of Hartford; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.
     Tom was preceded in death by his father, John, and his older brother, Robert, and niece, Kimberly, all of Hartford.
     As to Tom's wishes, cremation has taken place. The family will greet friends from noon to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 26, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where at 1 p.m. the service to honor Tom's memory will commence. Tom's ashes will be buried in Maple Hill Cemetery at a later date.

NOTE: Tom was a 1968 Hartford High School graduate.

Frank Pokrzywa, 72, of Rush Lake in Hartford, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2011, at home.
     Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Watervliet, of which he was a member. Burial will take place at 12 p.m. Monday (Michigan time) at St. Casimir Catholic Cemetery in Chicago. Visitation will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday at Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home in Coloma with Prayers being recited at 7 p.m. Those wishing to sign the online guest book or leave a message of comfort for the family may do so at www.duffieldpastrick.com.
     Frank was born in Chicago on Sept. 28, 1938, to John and Angelina (Storino) Pokrzywa. He retired as a bus driver for Hartford Public Schools in 2009. Frank was an avid golfer, hunter and fisherman who loved living on Rush Lake and socializing with his many friends. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Van Buren Sportsmen’s Club.
     He is survived by his six children, John (Debbie) Pokrzywa, Denise Pokrzywa, Cynthia (Mark) Hammon, Angelina Matheson, Natalie Matt and Ronn (Tina) Matt; eight grandchildren; and his sister, Joann (Roman) Gajewski.
     Frank was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Patricia.

David Lee Baldwin, 48, of Hartford passed away Monday, Feb. 14, 2011, at home.
     David was born Jan. 26, 1963, in Benton Harbor, the son of Earl Higgins and Linda Baldwin. He enjoyed the outdoors, where he loved to sit on the swing and play with all sorts of different balls. He also enjoyed watching television and listening to music, especially Christian music.
     David is survived by his father, Earl Higgins of Hartford; three sisters, April (Dan) Blevins of Hartford, Linda (Donald) Fisher and Cheryl (Richey) Carlyle, both of Coloma; a brother, Joe Higgins of Hartford and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
     David was preceded in death by his mother, Linda Baldwin, and grandfather and grandmother, Orvil and Esther Baldwin.
     The family will welcome friends from 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 17, at the Full Gospel Assembly Church, Hartford, where the service to honor his memory will commence at 7 p.m. Pastor Shannon Truelove will officiate. Following the services, cremation will take place. Memorial donations in David’s name may be directed to the family. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford with handling the arrangements.

John Allen Obrig, 67, of Grove City, Ohio, died Sunday, Feb. 13, 2011, of ALS at Crown Pointe Care Center.
John Obrid d 2-13-2011

     John was born May 18, 1943, in Oberlin, Ohio. He was a 1966 graduate of Michigan State University. (“Go Green!”) He was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army and was a Vietnam veteran. John married the former Judi Roberts of Columbus, Ga., on Feb. 28, 1970. He received his MBA from Michigan State in 1971 and continued his service to his country in the U.S. Army Reserves, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel after 28 years. He was also retired from Sears and John Obrig’s Tax and Accounting Service.
     John was a member of the Central Ohio MSU Alumni association, Reserve Officers Association, The National Society of Accountants, Ohio Society of Certified Public Accountants, Ohio Society of Enrolled Agents, Northwest Kiwanis, the VFW and American Legion.
     He was preceded in death by his parents, Nicholas and Beulah Dague Obrig.
     He is survived by wife, Judi; daughter, Nicki Obrig; brother, Richard (Kathe) Obrig; nephew, Matthew (Heidi) Obrig; niece, Lindsey (Brad) Felix; aunt, Louise Hostetler; uncle, Howe (Bev) Obrig; as well as numerous cousins. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 18, at Schoedinger Grove City Chapel, 3920 Broadway, where family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday. Interment will be in Grove City Cemetery.
     To share memories or condolences, please visit www.schoedinger.com.

NOTE: John was a 1961 Hartford High School graduate.

William Frank Gerencser died at his home on Lake Van Auken, near Hartford, on Feb. 6, 2011, after a brief but intense battle with cancer.
William Gerencser d 2-6-2011      Bill was born on Feb. 19, 1930, in his parents’ farmhouse in Benton Harbor and graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1948.
     While he worked at several local factories, at heart Bill was a farmer and entrepreneur who owned and operated several small businesses, including for many years Mickey’s Place and Mickey’s Pub of St. Joseph, as well as Dix Antenna Service. He loved to hunt, garden, fish and play bags with his friends and family.
     He was preceded in death by his parents, Helen and John Gerencser, his brother, John V. Gerencser, and his daughters, Elaine Case and Susan Gerencser.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia; her children, Pam (Camilo) Lucero and Mike (Marissa) Chappell, and grandchildren, Kirsten and Kyle Wright, Jessica and James Lucero, and Christopher, Matthew and Paul Chappell; by his sisters, Eleanor Hildebrand and Velma Lillegard, and sistersin-law, Connie Gerencser and Marion Jensen. Also surviving are Bill’s children JoAnn (Ronald) Klug, John (Linda) Gerencser and Steven Gerencser. Bill’s grandchildren are Samuel Fields, Michal (David) Frazee, Margrette (Jay) McWilliams, Suzannah (Alex) Deneau, Lillie (Vinod) Ponnusamy, John Klug, Alexandra Klug, Steven Gerencser, Susan Gerencser and Nicholas Gerencser; and his great-grandchildren are Koba Fields, Claire McWilliams and William Frazee.
     Visitation will be held at from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the Calvin Funeral Home, 8 East Main Street, Hartford, and a memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday at the same location.

Jessica Bassett Sikes - Jessica’s life began on July 2, 1983, in St. Joseph, the daughter of Rhonda Bassett and Ronald “Buck” Fuller. She was a 2001 graduate of Jessica Bassett Sikes d 2-5-2011 Hartford High School. Jessica enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, writing poetry and shopping.
     Her loving family includes her daughter, Destiny Sikes; her mother, Rhonda (Scott Heppler) Bassett; her father, Ronald “Buck” Fuller; sister, Irene Colter; brother, Jared (Veronica) Teeters,; husband, Jerry Sikes; nieces, Breanna and Alyssa; stepfather, Roger Fisher; mother-in-law, Diane; grandmother, Gail Fuller; and grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and loved ones too numerous to mention.
     Jessica passed away on Saturday, Feb. 5, 2011, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph. She was preceded in death by her infant daughter Hope, grandmother Fay and papa Ronald Fuller Sr.
     Her family will gather with friends from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday at Yazel & Clark Chapel, Dowagiac, where her funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, led by Pastor Ernie Riggs. She will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Memorial contributions in her name may be directed to her family in care of her mother. Please sign her guestbook and leave a memory of Jessica at www.yazel-clark.com.

Harry D. "Pat" Kelley Jr., Jackson MI, 88, passed into Eternal Life on January 28, under the loving care of Allegiance Hospital and Hospice.
     Pat is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jean; brother Phil (Marilee) Wiles of Bangor, MI; daughters Linda (Ron) Kretel of Charlotte, NC and Patty (Dick) Alexander of Berthoud, CO; son Brian (Karen) Kelley of Jackson; four grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and a large extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents and four brothers.
    Pat was a veteran of the US Navy, serving in World War II aboard the USS Alabama. A devoted husband and father, he was employed by Yardman in Jackson, was a member of First Congregational Church and in later years attended Westminster Presbyterian Church.
     A Memorial Service will be held at Westminster, 2301 Ridgeway Rd., Jackson, at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 1, the Reverend Wendy S. Pratt officiating. Visiting from noon until the time of the service. Memorials may be given to Westminster Presbyterian or First Congregational Church of Jackson. Chars. J. Burden & Son Funeral Home 1806 E. Michigan Ave, Jackson MI.

NOTE: Pat was from the 1940 Hartford High School graduating class.

Joseph Thomas Avery, 51, of Hartford passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2011, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph.
     Joseph was born April 25, 1959, in Denver, the son of Wallace and Edna (Simmons) Avery, both of whom preceded him in passing. Joseph was also preceded by two sisters, Linda Brown and Shirley Franklin.
     Joseph worked numerous jobs throughout his life with his most resent being at the Panel Room in Hartford.
     Joseph is survived by a brother, Robert Avery of Hartford; and two sisters, Mary Ledford of Waynesville, N.C., and Connie Roberts of Canton, N.C.
     As to Joseph’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service to honor Joseph’s memory will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations in Joseph’s name be made to the family. The Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Amy Sue Henslee, 30, of Hartford went to be with the Lord tragically on Monday, Jan. 24, 2011, in Bangor Township. Amy was born May 1, 1980, in St. Joseph, Amy S. Henslee d 1-24-2011 the daughter of Robert and Brenda (McCoy) Miston.
     Amy Sue Henslee had a love for the great out of doors and the beauty of nature. She enjoyed fishing, loved camping trips, traveling, long rides, and the result of quality time spent with her family. She enjoyed walks on the beaches of Lake Michigan, particularly South Haven. As this would stir up her childhood memories of seemingly endless walks with her grandparents. The beauty of any water’s edge would comfort her. Amy graduated from Hartford High School in 1999. She continued her education some years later at SMC and LMC for three years in total. She had received a certificate in phlebotomy from SMC, and the rest was stolen from her.
     Amy also enjoyed strolling through the stores with her family. Grocery shopping with her grandmother brought her great joy. Reporting back all the great things they had found for the rest of the family. Amy’s mother says she had the art of shopping down. She could turn a dollar into ten. Some of Amy’s hobbies were anything to do with Precious Moments Pieces, and scrapbooking with her favorite music on in the background. Scrapbooking to her meant remembering all the good memories in life and compiling those moments, in hopes they would never be forgotten. Those glimpses of history would lay the foundation for memories to be built on in the future. In passing time she also enjoyed watching “Regis and Kelly,” and another show called “The View.”
     Amy loved to be involved with any activities with her boys. Sports was a family event in the Henslee household. Husband James and their two sons knew that mom was supportive in all there activities, no matter what the sport or job. James will always reminisce of her daily ritual of sending the kids to school and him to work, standing at the window in her pink robe with a dab of toothpaste on her lip waving him good bye with that look, that look of “I miss you already, and please come home soon.” She was a true Minnesota Viking fan, but would allow her husband to adorn her in the black and gold colors of the Steel Curtain. James knew she would sit by his side among friends and cheer for the Steelers in the upcoming big game, and in some ways she still will.
     Because her time was so unfairly cut short, she had dreams and goals she had not yet accomplished. From simply trying ice fishing this winter to mothering just one more new child. She loved life and wanted to bring more into it. She had her sights set on becoming a caring nurse to everyone she could, and in a way was a caring nurse by being mommy to her children and a dear to her husband.
     Amy Sue Henslee was an inspiring nurse. She was very proud of her family as a whole, and the one she created with James. She was a servant to others, a confidant to friends, she was a hug when you would need it. She had a listening ear, a big heart, and a strong mind. Amy was the best daughter a parent could ask for, a caring grandchild, a loving mother, and a loyal, caring, loving wife. She was a light to any room, and she was a great smile to everyone that new her. She had this infectious giggle that she passed on to her children.
     Often she was compared to dynamite, little and full of boom, but all were better by knowing her. She also loved and cared for animals, but her yellow lab Odey and her cat Snoopy held a special spot in her heart.
     Her family and friends will miss her dearly, and she will be a light in our memories forever.
     On Sept. 16, 1999, Amy married James Henslee and he survives along with their children, Jared and Jonah Henslee, all of Hartford. Amy is also survived by her parents, Robert and Brenda Miston of Dowagiac; two grandmothers, Louise Mc-Coy of Dowagiac and Sue Miston of Watervliet; a brother, Bobby Miston of Millburg; special cousin, Katy Lindt of Kalamazoo; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, other family members and friends.
     Amy was preceded in passing by her two grandfathers, L.T. McCoy and Robert Miston, and a cousin, Mike McCoy.
     The family will receive friends on Wednesday, Feb. 2, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at the Hartford Federated Church. The service to honor Amy’s memory will commence at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 3, at the church by invitation ONLY. Pastor Bruce Dunford of the First Baptist Church in West Bend, Wis., will officiate. Amy will be laid to rest in Hill Cemetery, Lawrence. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations in Amy’s name be made to the Henslee Family Memorial Fund at any Chemical Bank. The Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Kalamazoo Gazette
January 28, 2011
By Ed Finnerty

Amy Henslee, Tonya Howarth are dead; Junior Lee Beebe charged with murder
PAW PAW — The search for a missing mother has ended in double tragedy, as officials announced this morning that the bodies of Amy Sue Henslee and another woman were unearthed. Both died of multiple gunshot wounds, authorities said.
     The man accused of murdering them, 34-year-old Junior Lee Beebe, is to be arraigned today on two open counts of murder.
     Van Buren County Prosecutor Juris Kaps said at a news conference in Paw Paw this morning that Henslee and Tonya Howarth, 36, were found buried in a wooded area behind a mobile home in the 42000 block of County Road 687 in Bangor Township.
     Howarth was believed to have been a girlfriend of Beebe's and was living in the mobile home on the property, Kaps said.
     The prosecutor said both women are believed to have gone willingly with Beebe on Monday, and both are believed to have been killed that day. He declined to discuss a motive.
     Henslee had been missing since Monday. Her husband of nearly 12 years, James, said he last saw her at 7:30 a.m. when he left for work and first became alarmed when he could not reach her by phone at 10 a.m. The stay-at-home mom had two sons, ages 8 and 10, and after she failed to meet them when they got off the school bus, he called police at about 4 p.m.
     The bodies were found a few miles from her home, just east of Van Auken Lake in Bangor Township.

Other on-line articles and videos are available at:

Kalamazoo Gazette www.mlive.com or through search results at http://topics.mlive.com/tag/Amy%20Henslee/posts.html
Herald Palladium www.heraldpalladium.com or through search results http://www.heraldpalladium.com/shared-content/search/?search=go&l=25&q=hartford&s=recent&Submit=Go
WWMT-TV www.wwmt.com or through search results http://www.wwmt.com/search/?q=hartford&fistype=site&x=24&y=16
WOOD-TV www.woodtv.com or through search results http://www.woodtv.com/dpp/news/local/sw_mich/Tonya-Howarth-was-a-great-person
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            In Loving Memory: Amy Henslee
           In Loving Memory: Tonya Howarth (Nelson)

Jane E. (Kozelink) Weirman, age 79, of Englewood, FL, passed away Saturday, January 22, 2011 in Mesa, AZ following an extended illness.
Jane Kozelink Weirman d 1-22-2011

     Born December 21, 1931 in Lawrence Michigan, Jane attended Hartford High School and Western Michigan University. She enjoyed music and socializing and could light up a room with her smile. Jane met her future husband, Chuck, at the old Crystal Palace ballroom on Paw Paw Lake and together they raised three daughters.
     During their first years together, they resided in numerous places around the state due to Chuck's transfers with the Michigan State Police but eventually settled in Lansing where Jane was very active in the community. She was a Charter member of the Lansing Women's Civitan Club and was the first woman appointed to the Capital Region Airport Authority.
     Jane was always very politically active and attended the National Republican Convention as a delegate for both Michigan and later for Louisiana, when she and Chuck relocated to Baton Rouge, LA in 1979.
     In 1984 the couple moved to Jacksonville, FL where Jane earned her real estate license and was elected President of the Jacksonville Beach Women's Real Estate Club.
     After Chuck fully retired in 1993 they moved a final time to Englewood, FL where they enjoyed watching manatees and a wide variety of birds from their condo on the water.
     One of Jane's greatest pleasures was to attend Mardi Gras in New Orleans with her daughters and then share the treasures she'd gathered there with friends.
     Jane is survived by her husband and daughters Karn, Krista, and Jana, and her son-in-law Larry.

NOTE: Jane was co-valedictorian for the class of 1949 at Hartford High School. Jane's mother, Evelyn Cook Kozelink, was a long time 6th grade teacher at Hartford.

Viola Mainente Baron passed away on Jan. 22, 2011, in Charlotte, NC.
Viola Baron d 1-22-2011

     Viola was born to Maria Naletto and Adrian Mainente on June 24, 1914, in Chicago. In 1939, she married Tulio Baron. In 1952, they bought and farmed a large farm in Hartford and 10 years later moved to Stevensville. In 1992, Viola and Tulio made their home in Florida and later in North Carolina.
     Viola's early days of working at S.S. Kresge in Chicago and then on the Hartford farm demonstrated her strong work ethic and that she was a careful manager of family finances. Her Italian heritage was kept alive with her speaking Italian, visits to Italy, lifetime connections with Italian relatives and friends, and her Italian cooking. Viola was a proud member and last survivor of the Gay Brunettes, a group of 12 Italian women friends from Chicago who loved to have a good time and nurture one another in life.
     As a proud American, Viola was a member of the American Legion. She kept informed of national issues and was an avid reader of the daily newspaper. Viola and Tulio enjoyed square dancing and became longtime participants in the Village Squares. They loved to travel and made many trips to Salt Lake City and surrounding areas as well as a trip of a lifetime to Guam and other Pacific Islands.
     Viola was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Tulio, brother, Florindo, sisters, Ida Spiller, Emma Granato and Elena Zapparoni.
     Two children survive Viola: Bruce (Rosemary), Salt Lake City and Kathleen, Charlotte. Additionally she is survived by three grandchildren: Kathryn Hunter (Robert), Boise, Idaho, Mary Ellen Nackos (Milo), Seattle and Peter Baron of Stuttgart, Germany, and three great-grandchildren.
     A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Saturday, March 19, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 211 Church Street, in St. Joseph with Fr. Jim Morris officiating. Burial will follow in Lincoln Township Cemetery in Stevensville. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Viola may be made to St. Joseph Church, 211 Church Street, St. Joseph, Mich. The Dey-Florin Funeral Home in St. Joseph has been entrusted with the local arrangements. Messages of condolence may be sent to www.florin.net.

Melton “Ray” Cole, 63, passed away on Monday evening, Jan. 17, 2011, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph surrounded by his loving family.
     Services celebrating his life will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 21, at the Dey Florin Chapel of Florin Funeral Service in St. Joseph. The family will receive friends and relatives beginning at 1 p.m. until service time on Friday. Cremation has taken place. Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice.
     Ray was born on Oct. 1, 1947, in Braggadocio, Mo., to Howard and Hazel (Murphy) Ward. Ray married Beverly Atherton on Sept. 13, 1969, and together they have celebrated 41 years of marriage. Ray loved construction and operated for the last 10 years Cole Construction Co. He enjoyed building things, golf and hunting. Ray was a kindhearted, generous and honest person who was giving and helpful to anyone who knew him.
     Ray is survived by his wife, Beverly; his sons, Dan (Janice) Cole and Rob (Jennifer) Atherton; his daughters, Pat (Dan) McCrery and Corey (Mike) Hoffman; his seven grandchildren; his five great-grandchildren; his brother, Steve (Bernie) Cole; his three sisters, Sue (Mike) Duffy, Lynn (Tim) Melvin, and Darlene (Jim) Henderson; and his many nieces and nephews. Ray was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Gloria Miller.

Note: Ray was from the Class of 1966 at Hartford High School.

On Jan. 17, 2011, Betty Ann (Douglas) Brawley went on to meet her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and was reunited with her husband and daughter. Betty passed away with her family by her side.
     Betty was born on May 21, 1926, to Hugh and Anna (Ward) Douglas in Poplar Bluff, Mo. She was the thirdeldest of 12 children. She married Denver “Curly” Brawley on June 29, 1945. In 1950 they moved to the Benton Harbor and Hartford area. Betty worked at the Williams Bros. Box Factory and Grand Transformer and retired from Quality Packaging.
     Betty is survived by a daughter, Sharon (Larry) Nail of Coloma, and seven grandchildren – Greg Campbell of Benton Harbor, Diana Buzzank of San Antonio, Texas, Lindie (Patrick) Delk of Coloma, Tanya Pepple of Huntington, Ind., Joe (Karla) Pepple Jr. of Benton Harbor, Ricky Nail of Watervliet and Tiffany (Jesse) Hughes of Coloma. Betty is also survived by 11 greatgrandchildren and one greatgreatgrandchild. Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Denver Lee Brawley, in 1997, and her daughter, Peggy (Sam) Clayton, in 2010.
     Betty was an avid reader. She loved to fish and hunt with her husband, as well as gardening and cooking. She loved her family very much, as well as her church family at New Life Christian Center in Coloma.
     Betty spent the last two years of her life at Sunset Shores Assisted Living in Benton Harbor, where the staff quickly became her extended family. Per Betty’s wishes, no funeral services will be held. A graveside service at the Maple Hill Cemetery in Hartford is planned for 11:30 a.m. on Jan. 21. Everyone is encouraged to meet at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, prior to 11:30 a.m. for a procession to the cemetery.

Sinaida Jacenko, BRIDGMAN — Sinaida’s life began Oct. 6, 1915, in Riga, Latvia.
     She grew up in Latvia where she became a schoolteacher. While in a German displaced person’s camp Sinaida taught the children of the camp and met Vladimir “Wally” Jacenko, another teacher, and they married Sept. 23, 1946. In 1950 Wally and Sinaida emigrated to the United States where they settled in Chicago, and Sinaida went to work as a meat packer until she retired in 1971. After her retirement she joined Wally in Hartford on their dream farm. She found great pleasure and was well known for her gardening, both vegetable and flower; Sinaida could grow anything.
     Sinaida found her greatest joy in spending time with her loving family, which includes: her daughter, Galina and her husband Thomas Sundberg of St. Joseph; grandchildren, Kathleen Aspenns and her husband Ron of California, Glenn and his wife Marsha Aspenns of Cincinnati, Amy and her husband Todd Jeffery Merrill of Mount Pleasant, Mich., and Katherine Sundberg of St. Joseph; a greatgranddaughter, ZoeAspenns of Cincinnati; and a daughter- in-law, Cindy and her husband Harry Curley of California.
     Sinaida died Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2011, at Jordan’s Nursing Home in Bridgman. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Wally, in 2004, and her son, Val John Aspenns, in 1988.
     Friends may visit with Sinaida’s family from 9:30 to 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan.15, at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet, where services celebrating her life will be held at 10 a.m. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery in Hartford. Memorials may be made in Sinaida’s memory to Jordan’s Life Care Center.

Jane Boze, 98, of South Haven, formerly of Hartford, passed away peacefully Monday, Jan. 10, 2011, at South Haven Community Hospital.
     Jane was born Aug. 31, 1912, in Stickney, S.D. Jane very much enjoyed her life growing up on the family farm with her parents, five brothers and five sisters. She moved to Hartford as a young woman, where she met and married Elmer Boze on Oct. 27, 1934. He preceded her in passing on Oct. 20, 1994, after nearly 60 years of marriage.
     Jane worked at the Gifford Wreath Factory, Auto Specialties and the Hartford Fruit Exchange. Jane was energetic and full of life. No one she met was a stranger for long. She was very active throughout her life and attended many sporting and musical events. She volunteered with the Hartford Band Boosters. She prepared wonderful food and hosted many funfilled family gatherings.
     Jane was especially proud of her two granddaughters and held dear to all of her nieces and nephews. She is survived by a daughter, Pam (Ron) Ward of Hartford and granddaughters, Leslie Ward of Chicago and Kimberly Ward of Los Angeles.
     Jane was preceded in passing by her parents, James and Jane (Parkins) Jones; her five sisters, Mary Rhinehart, Lois Criffield, Nellie Helmer, Bessie Calhoun and Hazel Polmanteer and her five brothers, Frank Jones, John Jones, George Jones, Lloyd Jones and Donald Jones.
     As per Jane’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service honoring her memory will commence at 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 13, at the Hartford Federated Church, of which she was a member. Burial will follow at a later date in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Jane’s name be made to Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community Activities Fund or the Hartford Fire Department. The Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, is assisting the family in the arrangement process.

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By ANDREW LERSTEN
Herald-Palladium South Haven Bureau

Kalamazoo Gazette
January 28, 2011
By Ed Finnerty

Amy Henslee, Tonya Howarth are dead; Junior Lee Beebe charged with murder

By ANDREW LERSTEN Herald-Palladium South Haven Bureau

Kalamazoo Gazette January 28, 2011 By Ed Finnerty

Amy Henslee, Tonya Howarth are dead; Junior Lee Beebe charged with murder

By ANDREW LERSTEN
Herald-Palladium South Haven Bureau

Kalamazoo Gazette
January 28, 2011
By Ed Finnerty