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Obituaries in 2012
Hartford Michigan
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Click here for local library resources. |
Hazen “Fuzzy” Brownlow Jr.,
75, of Hartford, formerly of St. Joseph, passed away early Saturday,
Dec. 29, 2012, at his home.
Funeral services celebrating his life will be at 1 p.m. Thursday,
Jan. 3, at the Dey-Florin Funeral Home, 2506 Niles Ave., St. Joseph.
Burial will follow at Spring Run Cemetery in Scottdale with Military
Rites. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until the time of service
Thursday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to Hospice at
Home. Messages of condolence may be sent to www.florin.net.
Fuzzy was born Aug. 16, 1937, in St. Joseph to Hazen
Sr. and Mary Brownlow. He graduated from St. Joseph High School and
then proudly
served his county in the U.S. Army as a 101st Airborne
Ranger. He enjoyed outdoor activities, including hunting and
fishing. Fuzzy was an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers and NASCAR –
particularly of Dale Earnhardt and Tony Stewart. Fuzzy retired from
Whirlpool Corp. and was the former owner of the Grand Crossing
Tavern.
He also enjoyed golf with his “Caddy Shack” league and
hosted numerous golf charity events. The Stevensville Station was
his “home away from home,” where Fuzzy enjoyed spending time with
his many friends.
Fuzzy is survived by his children, Joseph Brownlow and
Leannette (Jeff) Garrison, both of Hartford; grandchildren, Katie,
Whitney and Josie Brownlow, Cherri McCann, Brandi Perriguey, and
Kristi and Julius Brown; stepsons, Darrell and John Howley;
stepgrandson, Greg Garrison; his sisters, Bonnie Bartz of St. Joseph
and Mary Frances Bower of Lawrence; his nephew, Bradley Berry; and
nieces, Cathy (Gordon) Johnson and Melinda Marcelletti.
In addition to his parents, Fuzzy was preceded in death
by his brother, Beverly.
|
Ellen M. Day, 88,
of Hartford died Saturday, Dec. 8, 2012, at her home unexpectedly,
but of natural causes.
She was born July 29, 1924, in Chicago to George W. and
Ethel M. (Hysell-Goodacre) Peterson. On July 12, 1941, in Benton
Harbor she married Darrell L. Day Sr., who preceded her in death on
July 17, 1982.
Ellen lived in Niles for 10 years before moving to
Hartford in 1983.
She is survived by a daughter, Patricia E. (Allen) Hill
of Hartford; a son, Darrell L. (Linda) Day Jr. of Watervliet; five
grandchildren, Mark (Amy) Hill of Coloma, Michelle (Terry) Laymon of
Stevensville, Michael Hill of Hartford, Lori Hannan of Spokane,
Wash., and Todd Day of Keeler; four great-grandchildren, Brianna
Day, Brittany Day, Katie Hannan and Brian Merritt; and a brother,
Clifford Hysell of Lawton.
Ellen was preceded in death by her husband; parents;
sister, Florence Dowlen; and brother, Donald Hysell.
Funeral services for Ellen M. Day will be held at 1
p.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012, at Halbritter Funeral Home, Niles,
with Pastor David Gilbert of Hartford Federated Church officiating.
Interment will follow at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens, Niles.
The family will receive relatives and friends beginning
at noon until the time of services on Thursday at the funeral home.
Donations in memory of Ellen may be made to the
American Cancer Society or to the organization of donor’s choice.
www.halbritterfunerals.com.
|
Edwina
Watkins, 69, of Hartford, died Wednesday, Dec. 5, at her home
after a short illness.
She was born on June 11, 1943, to Cletis and Flora Mae
Moss in Cardwell, Mo. She moved to Michigan with her family in 1952
when she was 8 years old. She worked on her uncle Oral Jones’ fruit
farm as she was growing up. Edwina was a 1961 graduate of Covert
High School. On Sept. 30, 1961, she married Jack Watkins, and she
was always an adoring, faithful and loving wife for 51 years. She
was very grateful to be a stay-at-home mom with her three children,
and she also helped her husband run their blueberry farm in the
summertime.
Edwina enjoyed going to their condo in Hilton Head
Island, S.C., and vacationing with her family there. She loved
spending time with her grandchildren and friends. Her hobbies
included baking, going to antique shops, sewing, going to lunch with
her lady friends and taking care of her yard, where she had
beautiful rhododendrons, azalea bushes and blooming iris plants. She
was a faithful member of Covert Congregational Church, where she and
Jack were married and which she had been attending since high
school. She was in the Women’s Church Club and hosted the Christmas
luncheons for many years, which brought her a lot of pride and
pleasure. She was also a member of her Secret Pal Club for many
years and enjoyed and looked forward to every gathering with her
girls. Edwina was faithful in keeping in touch with her relatives
that she left behind in the southern states and took time to go back
and visit them over the years. She also had a lot of family reunions
at her home that brought everyone back together for good food and
conversation.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Edwina is survived by her husband, Jack M. Watkins; her
children, daughter Becky Ross of Hartford and sons Jackson Watkins
of Bangor and Mark (Glenda) Watkins of Covert; a sister, Londa
(Donnie) Wines of Bangor; two brothers, Gaylon Moss of Watervliet
and Rick (Corda) Moss of Dowagiac; six grandchildren, Bethany,
Jenelle and Angelia Ross, Jenna and Dylan Watkins, and Jessica
Corona; her beloved granddog, Woody; and two great-grandchildren,
Aaliyah and Aamiyah Corona of South Haven. There are many nieces and
nephews that loved their Aunt Wina and loved spending time with her.
Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 14, at
Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven. Funeral services will
be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 15, at His Place: Cathedral of
Faith Church, 69556 CR 378, Covert, MI 49043, with Pastors Wayne
Davis and Duane Jones officiating. A luncheon will follow the
service. Contributions can be made in Edwina’s memory to the First
Congregational Church of Covert. Kindly share your thoughts and
memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
|
John Grissom,
55, of Keeler passed away suddenly on Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2012, at
his home.
John was born May 19, 1957, in Benton Harbor, the son
of John and Hannah (Baldwin) Grissom. John was preceded in passing
by his father on June 24, 2010, and by his grandparents.
John served his country proudly in the U.S. Army during
the Vietnam War. He was formerly employed as a mechanic at the
Flying J, which is now Petro in Benton Harbor. John had a love for
riding horses, going to flea markets and garage sales, and got
hooked going to the Four Winds Casino in Hartford.
John is survived by his loving family, which consists
of his children, Hope Grissom and Derek Grissom, both of Hartford,
Eric (Carrie) Grissom of Dowagiac, Cody Grissom of Reno, Nev.,
Shelby Grissom of Benton Harbor and Dusty Alsup of Covert. He is
also survived by eight grandchildren; his mother, Hannah Grissom of
Hartford; two sisters; Esther Sotelo of Knoxville, Tenn., and Hope
(Kirk) Davis of Canal Winchester, Ohio; and numerous nieces,
nephews, other family members and friends.
The family will welcome friends from 2 to 4 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where
military rites will be conducted at 3:30 p.m. by the North Berrien
Military Rites Team. The Rev. Heather McDougall of Keeler United
Methodist Church will then have John’s celebration of life service.
Cremation will follow the service. Those wishing to leave
condolences may do so http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
|
Alvin A. Rummage,
80, of Hartford passed away Saturday morning, Dec. 1, 2012, at
Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph.
Funeral services celebrating his life will be held at 11 a.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 5, at the Fairplain Chapel of Florin Funeral
Service, 1053 E. Napier, Benton Harbor, with Pastor Windle Davis
officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Sodus
Township. Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
Memorials may be made to either the American Heart
Association or to the Living Word Church of God. Messages of
condolence may be sent to www.florin.net.
Alvin was born June 9, 1932, in Jackson, Tenn., to
Charles and Bessie Rummage. He briefly worked at Whirlpool Corp.,
but most of his working career was spent pursuing his passion for
music, particularly the guitar. Alvin played guitar and later the
steel guitar for such local establishments as the Joker’s Club and
the Blue Bird Bar. He also enjoyed fishing and attending
flea-markets. Alvin was an avid reader and particularly loved
reading Westerns. He made many close friends at the Woodside
Apartment Complex in Hartford and enjoyed participating in various
activities with the residents there. Most of all, Alvin will be
remembered for being a wonderful father, grandfather and
great-grandfather.
Alvin is survived by his children, Arthur (Judith)
Beaman, Pam Williams and Sandy Morris, all of Benton Harbor, Shane
(Dawn) Rummage of Mayer, Ariz., Kelly (Rory) Dickey of Benton Harbor
and Lesa Parsons and Senan Rummage of Georgia; numerous
grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and
nephews.
In addition to his parents, Alvin was preceded in death
by his wives, May in December of 1965 and Roxie in April of 1997; by
one brother; and four sisters.
|
Donna Louise Kierstead,
62, of Watervliet began her life on March 15, 1950, in Watervliet.
She grew up in the Hartford and Lawrence areas,
graduating from Lawrence High School. In 1967 her older brother,
Doug, brought Fred Kierstead home with him while on leave from the
Air Force. Two years later, in 1969, at a Methodist Church in
Hartford, Donna and Fred married.
Donna loved caring for her family. She also enjoyed
filling her time doing genealogy, knitting, reading and working on
various crafts.
Donna’s loving family includes her husband, Fred; three
sons, Keith Allen (Virginia) Kierstead, Brian Paul Kierstead and
Craig Andrew Kierstead; one grandchild, Brianna Kierstead; five
step-grandchildren; her mother, Barbara (Turner) Miller Reck; five
brothers, Douglas (Linda) Miller, Duane (Dorothy) Miller, Dennis
Miller, Dale Miller and Dwight (Carol) Miller; her sister, Deanna
(John) Mast; and several nieces and nephews.
Donna died Tuesday, Nov. 27. Her father, Edgar Miller
Jr., preceded Donna in death.
Cremation has taken place, and the family will have a
service at Maple Hill Cemetery in the spring. Hutchins Funeral Home
in Watervliet is assisting Donna’s family with arrangements.
NOTE: Donna was
a member of the Hartford High School class of 1968. |

Robert Snodgrass - Born in Hartford on
March 26, 1923, Robert passed away Nov. 16, 2012, at his home in
Naples, Fla., and a funeral was held there.
A memorial service for Michigan family and friends to
celebrate Robert’s life will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 7, 2013,
at Hartford Federated Church, 65418 Red Arrow Highway, Hartford.
Lunch will be served after the service.
Robert is survived by his wife, Helene Snodgrass;
daughter Julie and her husband, Robert Thompson; his brother, Eugene
Snodgrass; his two grandsons, Nicholas and Alexander; and two
great-grandchildren, Maddy and Oliver.
NOTE: Bob was a
1942 Hartford High School graduate.
|
Gregoria Calderon (Sustaita),
74, of South Haven, formerly of Hartford, passed away Friday, Nov.
16, 2012, at South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Community.
Gregoria was born May 9, 1938, in Concepcion, Mexico,
the daughter of Delfina Garcia Sustaita and Rumaldo Sustaita Garcia,
both of whom precede her in passing.
Gregoria is survived by her husband, Isidiro; children,
Mariadel Carmen Calderon Sustaita, Marisela Calderon, Maria A.
Torres Calderon, Juana M. Ramon Calderon, Marina Torres Calderon,
Alma D. Rodriguez Calderon, Delfina Mendoza Calderon, Isidiro
Calderon Sustaita and Santos G. Calderon Sustaita; 26 grandchildren;
and six great-grandchildren.
The family will welcome friends 9-11 a.m. Wednesday,
Nov. 21, 2012, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in
Hartford. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 a.m. with
Father Michael Hazard as the Celebrant.
Gregoria will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery,
Hartford. Those wishing to leave a condolence may do so by visiting
our web site at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
|
Leona Bachman, 92
of Hartford, formerly of Coloma, passed away peacefully at home and
entered the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus
Christ, on Nov. 15, 2012, surrounded by her nephew, caregivers,
friends Cynthia and Abel Vasquez and a hospice nurse.
Leona was born June 2, 1920, to Charles and Frances
Bachman, who preceded her in death, along with one brother, C. Allen
Bachman.
Leona is survived by her nephew, Charles III, her niece
Donna, and a brother, Robert (Claudia) Bachman. Leona is also
survived by her extended family and caregivers, Cynthia, Abel and
Megan Vasquez; June, Tina, Marie, Lisa, Karen, Patty; many church
friends; and her friends at Heartland Hospice of Kalamazoo.
After graduating from Coloma High School in 1938, Leona
attended Moody Bible College in Chicago and studied business and
accounting through Twin Cities Business College, which was
accredited by Western Michigan University.
She soon began 34 years of a long, successful career as
a service representative with Michigan Bell Telephone (aka “Ma
Bell”) of Benton Harbor and was a member of the Pioneers of Michigan
Bell.
Leona was one of the founding members of Midway Baptist
Church, where she also retired as a Sunday school teacher. During
her “retirement” she was still doing the “work of the Lord” by being
a prayer warrior and sharing the “good news” with anyone she came in
contact with.
Friends may visit with Leona’s family from 10 to 11
a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 20, at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet,
followed by funeral services at 11 a.m.
Leona will be buried in Maple Hill Cemetery in Hartford
at a private service.
|
Frances Ilene Covey,
76, of Hartford died on Nov. 12, 2012, at
home. She was born on July 16, 1936, to Rufus and Laura (Black)
Felder in Oklahoma City, Okla.
She worked for Everett Piano Company. Frances was a
member of the 1st Missionary Baptist Church of Coloma. She will be
missed by many.
She was preceded in death by her parents and several
brothers and sisters.
Frances is survived by her children, Clayton (Jane)
Covey of Springfield, Va., Debbie Chamberlin of Grand Junction,
Laura (Steve) Maxie of Greenwood, Ind., Donna (Steve) Lawson of
Indianapolis and James (Kelly) Covey of Shepherd; 13 grandchildren;
and seven great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 17, at
Filbrandt Family Funeral Home, South Haven. The funeral service will
begin at 4 p.m., with Steven Maxie and Pastor Mark Manning
officiating. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s
online guest book at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family
Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333.
|
Pamela Williamson,
62 of Hartford, has set out on her longest trip yet, voyaging to
the world of tomorrow.
Pamela passed away Sunday, Nov. 11, at her residence. Being the
world traveler that she was, her loved ones can rest assured that it
will be smooth sailing from here forward for Pam.
Glenna [Reed] and
Harold Sanders were blessed Dec. 4, 1949,
welcoming the newest addition of their family, a beautiful redheaded
delight.
Following Pam’s
graduation from Hartford High School in 1968, Pamela and
Robert started their own family with the birth of their first son,
Robert Harold.
In 1977 the family was complete with the addition of
their second son, Michael Wayne. Pamela loved traveling north to
spend time on the lake at their cabin.
When she wasn’t traveling and fulfilling her duties as
Vice President and coowner of A&B Packing Equipment Inc., she
adored the joys brought to her from being a grandma to all six of
her exquisite grandsons. She will be greatly missed by all who were
graced with her gentle presence.
Pam is survived by her husband, Robert; two sons,
Robert H. (Denise Meyer) Williamson and Michael (Amanda Zandarski)
Williamson, both of Hartford; two sisters, Melva (Dwight) Meachum of
Hartford and Deborah Bonczkowski; her aunt, Josephine Stone of
Hartford; six grandchildren, Connor, Calvin, Holden, Collin, Rowen
and Ethan Williamson; three nephews, Eric, John and Khyle; and a
niece, Caitlyn.
She was preceded in death by her parents and
brother-in-law,
Gary Saline.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday at
Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home in Coloma. Burial will
follow at Fairview Cemetery. Visitation will take place from 5-8
p.m. Monday.
Memorials may be made to the Youth Group at the United
Church of God in Kalamazoo. Those wishing to leave an online message
or share a memory with the family may do so at
www.duffieldpastrick.com.
|

Donna Patricia Wismer
Obermesik, age 70 of Hartford, passed away on
November 6, 2012.
Donna was born on March 18, 1942 in St. Joseph MI to
Cecil and
Elva
(Jones) Wismer, who preceded her in passing.
Donna is survived by her four
children, John (Tami) Obermesik, Patricia (Dan) McKean, Linda
(Robert) Kling, and David Obermesik, all of Hartford, and one
sister, Alice (Ron) Nelson of Niles, MI.
John
Obermesik, her husband, passed away in 2008 and one brother,
Cecil Wismer, passed
away in 2009.
Cremation has taken place. There will be a memorial
service at a later date.
Donna was a
1960 graduate of Hartford High School. |
Fannie Unrath, 90, of Washington County, Tenn., formerly
of Van Buren County, went home to be with her Lord Sunday, Nov. 4,
2012, at Four Oaks Health Care Center of Jonesborough, Tenn.
Fannie was a retired registered nurse from Takoma
Regional Hospital and a member of the Greeneville Seventh-day
Adventist Church, both in Greeneville, Tenn.
Surviving are her two daughters, Maureen (Don)
Arrington and Linda (Marvin) Grindstaff; son, Wayne Unrath; two
grandchildren, Adam Unrath and Victoria Arrington; several
stepgrandchildren; several stepgreat-grandchildren; six sisters,
Florence Nick, Lily Nick, June Nafziger, Donna Matchett, Catherine
(Tom) Guthrie and Virginia Lee; three brothers, Jim (Gladys) Nick,
Jack (Margaret) Nick and Eddie (Dionne) Nick; and numerous nieces
and nephews.
She was the daughter of the late Tom and Stella Cain
Nick.
Fannie was preceded in death by her husband, Maurice
Unrath, in 1973; a grandson, Maurice William Arrington; three
sisters and six brothers.
Funeral services were held at the Kiser-Rose Hill
Funeral Home, Greeneville, Tenn. Interment will be 1 p.m. Friday,
Nov. 9, 2012, at Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Local arrangements
were cared for by the Bangor Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home.
The family suggests memorials be made to the
Alzheimer’s Association; PO Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com
|
Almiron
“Bud” Robinson,
age 84 of Portage, passed away November 1, 2012 in Michigan.
He was retired truck driver for the Teamsters Union and
a member of Hobart Assembly of God Church. Bud spent winters in
Plant City, FL.
He was preceded in death by his wife Alberta in 2011.
Bud is survived by daughters Carol Cogswell of Jackson, KY and Judy
Robinson of Valparaiso; son Michael (Susan) Robinson of Hartford,
MI; step-children Robert Danford of Merrillville, Sharon (Robert)
Carreras of Park Forest, IL, Carol (Robert) Rainey, Judith Danford
Rogers and Gloria (Timothy) Briesacher all of Portage; numerous
grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Friends may visit with Bud’s family on Monday, November
5, 2012 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., time of Funeral Service at Burns
Funeral Home, 701 E. 7th St., Hobart. Rev. Ryan McDowell,
officiating. Burial at Ridgelawn Cemetery. www.burnsfuneral.com
|
Janyce Baugh Dudash,
of Portage MI, was granted eternal rest on October 30, 2012. Janyce was born in Keeler,
Michigan on September 30, 1935 to C. Clifford Baugh and Florine Yund Baugh who preceded her in death; along with a sister
Wanda Lindeman. Remaining is a sister, Zabel Dwan in Arizona and
brother Ronald (Petrina) Baugh in Utah.
Raised in Watervliet, she graduated high school in
1953. She played Varsity Girls Basketball as a freshman, was on the
cheerleading squad that won the Little Eight Championship in
1951,1952,1953 giving them the honor to cheer at a University of
Michigan game. Chosen by the faculty, she attended Girls State at U
of M learning about local and state government. In her senior year
1953, she was given the God and Country award and was on the
National Honor Society. She attended WMU school of Education
1953-1954.
As an adult, she was active in many things. She was a
member of the green group Red Hatters and the Portage Garden Club.
She enjoyed the Chinese form of Tai Ji at the Portage Senior Center
for years and was in a weekly Bible study group for 32 years.
Her biggest accomplishment was marrying Michael R.
Dudash on July 16. 1955. He passed away January 22, 2007. They
enjoyed many years of travel to European countries, Caribbean and
Hawaiian Islands, Ireland, Egypt, Israel, and Greece. After his
passing, she and her daughter, Deon traveled. Her last trip being
Spain and Portugal which she had never been. They had three
children, Deon (Scott) Campbell, Michael (Cheryl) Dudash and Mark
(Lorraine) Dudash. Through them she became Nana to Austin Campbell,
Angela (David) Curry, Chad Campbell, Michael N. and Alex Dudash, and
Nathan, Sarah, Isaac, Abigail, and Leah Dudash; along with two great
grandchildren, David Curry Jr. and Valerie Campbell.
Upon her request, cremation has taken place. A
Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. We would like to
thank the Bronson staff and Hospice who cared for our mother.
Contributions can be made to Hospice or the Portage Senior Center.
Please visit Janyce's memory page at www.Lifestorynet.com.
|
Arlene Lucille Fast,
81, of Hartford passed away on Saturday, Oct. 27, 2012, at her home.
Arlene was born Oct. 5, 1931, in Benton Harbor, the
daughter of Vernon and Carrie (Phillips) Shoff, both of whom precede
her in passing.
Arlene graduated from Spring Arbor Junior College. In
her younger years, she was employed in many different offices, where
she learned numerous skills. As she grew wiser and a little older,
her passion turned to helping others and so she became a foster
mother to numerous young children. The times she spent with these
children and raising her own children were the best years of her
life.
Arlene leaves behind to cherish her memory her husband,
Jerry, whom she married on Oct. 21, 1966; her children, Karen Fast
of Hartford, Don (Joan) Harris of Silver City and Carrie (Jerry)
Caulder of Winter Haven, Fla.; eight grandchildren, Brad Fast,
Kristy (Harris) Lavalle, Francine Harris, Carla (Harris) Loeffler,
Erin Harris, Candy Hall, Billy Caulder and Austin Caulder; three
greatgrandchildren, Andrea Fast, Kyle Fast and Amelia Lavalle; a
sister, Bonnie Schmalbach; and a brother, Vernon E. Shoff Jr.
A service to honor Arlene’s memory will commence at 1
p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 31, 2012, at the Free Methodist Church in
Watervliet. The family will welcome friends 30 minutes prior to the
service. Pastor Brian Hall will officiate. Arlene will be laid to
rest in North Shore Memory Gardens, Coloma. In lieu of flowers, the
family is asking that memorial donations be made to either the
church or Hospice at Home. The family has entrusted the Calvin
Funeral Home, Hartford with the arrangements. Those wishing to leave
condolences may do so by visiting our web site at
www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
|
Mary
M. Jarvis began her life Dec. 8, 1930, in Keeler. She was
a lifelong area resident.
Mary and her husband Charles made their home in
Pipestone Township, where Mary found great joy in taking care of her
family and home. She enjoyed canning, cooking and her and Charles’
weekly lunch at Farmer’s Country Club on Saturdays.
Mary’s loving family includes her husband, Charles; two
sons, Richard C. (Michele) Jarvis and Kevin (Nancy) Jarvis, both of
Benton Harbor; six grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; a brother,
Howard (Marilyn) Mundt of Watervliet; and many nieces and nephews.
Mary died Tuesday, Oct. 23, at Lakeland Specialty
Hospital in Berrien Center.
She is preceded in death by a daughter, Karen
Pendleton; a sister, Agnes Renner; and two brothers, Lester and
Eugene Mundt.
Friends may visit with Mary’s family from 6-8 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 25, at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet. Funeral
services will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 26, at St.
Paul’s United Church of Christ in Bainbridge Township. Burial will
follow in St. Paul’s Cemetery. Memorials may be made in Mary’
memory to St. Paul’s United Church of Christ.
|
Gail McNitt, 88,
of Niles passed
away at Brentwood Assisted Living with his family by his side on
Wednesday, October 17, 2012.
He was born on May 18, 1924
in Keeler, Michigan to the late William Sylvester and Wava (Parmer)
McNitt.
After graduating from high school Gail served his country proudly in
the United States Army. Upon returning home from WWII, Gail's heart
was stolen by a young, beautiful Joan Alspaugh. On April 12,
1947 he wed Joan at a ceremony in South Bend and this year they
celebrated 65 years of marriage.
Gail was first and foremost a
husband, father and grandfather and he took these roles very
seriously. He was an excellent provider and wonderful father. Gail
spent many years at Bendix, where he was part of the team that
designed the Talos Missile and at Magnavox where he worked as an
electrical engineer. He was a skilled carpenter, even building his
own boats, and was always tinkering; many inventions were brought to
life because they solved a problem for Gail or made something
easier.
He was
preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers
Orlo and James
McNitt.
He is survived by his wife Joan
McNitt of Niles, three sons; Brian (Mary Jean) McNitt of East
Lansing, Terry (Linda) McNitt of Niles and Timothy (Amy) McNitt of
Bellingham, Washington. He is also survived by his daughter Kathleen
Lowe of Linton, Indiana, four grandchildren; James (Jennifer) Lowe,
Kendra (Rob) Lasley, Sarah McNitt and Steven Lowe and his eight
great-grandchildren; Ariel, Taylor, Jarika, Meagan, Patty, Jason,
Jakob and Noah.
Those
wishing to make a memorial donation may do so to the American Heart
Association or Southern Care Hospice. Photos,
memories, or condolences may be left for the family at
www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com or
www.Facebook.com\brownfuneralhomeniles.
A time
of visitation will be held on Sunday, October 21, 2012 from 4:00
p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Brown Funeral Home. Funeral services will be
Monday, October 22, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at Brown Funeral Home.
Note:
Gail was
a
1942
of Hartford High School graduate.
|
Harlan Fredericks
, Kalamazoo, age 87, died October 16, 2012 in Allegan. Harlan was
born on December 25,
1924 in Hartford, the son of George and
Margaret (Lamb) Fredericks.
Harlan was a United States
Army veteran serving in the Pacific during WWII. Harlan worked at the Kalamazoo Gazette for over
30 years as a system technician.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years,
Frances "Fran" Fredericks in 2011. Surviving are his four children: Jef (Janet) Fredericks, Gail (Mike) Wambach, Holly Fredericks and
Charley (Rebecca) Fredericks; 10 grandchildren; seven
great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews and dear friends.
Memorial donations may be directed to Wings Home, 330
Linn Street, Allegan, MI 49010.
Life Story Funeral Home, Betzler-Kalamazoo; 6080 Stadium Drive,
375-2900.
NOTE: Harlan was a
1943 Hartford High School graduate.
|
Hershel Hosford,
53, of Hartford passed away Thursday, Oct. 11, 2012, at Lakeland
Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph.
He was born on Oct. 14, 1958, in Chicago. He worked at
Cast-Matic Corporation in Stevensville.
Hershel loved spending time with his family and friends
and going to the beach and to lighthouses.
He is survived by his mother, Wilma (Jerry) Fritz; a
son, Joshua Hosford of Sodus; a daughter, Lisa Hosford of Sodus; a
brother, Richard Hosford of Benton Harbor; a stepbrother, Ed Fritz
of Texas; a sister, Nora “Sis” Hosford of Benton Harbor; three
stepsisters, Loretta Clayton of Texas and Shelby and Diane Fritz,
both of New Troy; and two grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his father, Hershel Hosford.
Services will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 19, at
Bright Star Tabernacle, 5130 Old Pipestone Road, Eau Claire. Pastor
Mike Fields is officiating. Memorial donations may be made to the
church for a memorial fund to help with expenses.
Arrangements are being handled by Hoven Funeral Home,
Buchanan, 695-2363.
|
Lorene Opal Moss, 83, of
Hartford died Friday, Oct. 12, 2012, at home. She was born Dec. 24,
1928, in Providence, Ark., to William and Lillian (Harvey) Selvidge.
Lorene was a member of the Church of Christ of Benton Harbor.
Lorene loved to cook. For more than two decades she was
a nurse’s aide who cared for patients at Watervliet Community
Hospital. In her spare time she enjoyed caring for her
grandchildren.
Mrs. Moss is survived by four children, Harold (Alice)
Ryan of Watervliet, Lois (Lemon) Pruitt of Hartford, Larry (Gloria)
Ryan of Hartford and Peggy (Harvey) Strong of Hartford. Also
surviving are members of her second family, Galen Moss, Londa (Don)
Wines, Edwina (Jack) Watkins and Rick Moss. Also surviving are a
sister, Elsie Skaggs of Tuscon, Ariz.; a brother, Bill Selvidge of
Coloma; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and one
great-great-granddaughter.
She was preceded in death by her husbands, J.B. Ryan
and Cletus Moss; one sister, Frances Ferrin; and four brothers,
Cecil, Vernon, Lloyd and Wesley Selvidge.
Visitation will take place Wednesday, Oct. 17, from
10-11 a.m. at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven.
Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with
Rusty Stark officiating. Mrs. Moss will be laid to rest at North
Shore Memory Gardens in Hagar Shores. Memorials may be made to the
Parkinson Foundation. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the
family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family
Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333.
|
Margaret Helen [Colman]
Martens, 83,
of Hartford, passed away Wednesday, October 10, 2012
at her home.
Margaret was born September 24, 1929 in Hartford, the
daughter of Franklin and Frances (Hicks) Colman, both of whom
preceded her in passing. Also preceding her in passing was her
husband – Charles on November 29, 1986, three brothers – Robert
“Bob” Colman, James “Jim” Colman and Franklin “Bud” Colman as well
as two sisters – Mable Nelson and Joan Treat.
Margaret graduated from Hartford High School in
1947
and she returned to the Hartford Public Schools in her adult work
life, where she was employed as a cook. She was a loving mother,
grandmother and great-grandmother, who had a deep satisfaction for
helping others in need.
Margaret is survived by two sons – Charles (Kay)
Martens of Lansing and Douglas Martens of Hartford, four
grandchildren – Amanda Tenison, Nic Martens, Muzimal Khan and Lauren
Sherman, one great grandchild and two more on the way, a brother –
Clyde (Gail) Colman of Berrien Springs and numerous nieces, nephews,
other family members and friends.
As to Margaret’s wishes, cremation has taken place and
no public services will be held. The family has entrusted the Calvin
Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangements. Those
wishing to leave condolence notes for the family may do so at
http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
|
Marillyn [Dunn]
Imbordino-Melvin-Piper, 83, of Newnan, Ga., formerly of Hartford, passed away on
Sunday, Oct. 7, 2012, at Avalon Health and Rehabilitation in Newnan.
Marillyn was born May 8, 1929, in
Lawrence, the daughter of Lytle and Elizabeth (Greter) Dunn, both of
whom preceded her in passing. She was also preceded in passing by
her husbands, Ernie Imbordino, Alvin Melvin and Russell Piper.
When Marillyn lived here in Michigan she enjoyed her employment at
the Panel Room Restaurant in Hartford and the many friends she made
working there. Marilllyn will be truly
missed by her family, which consists of her two daughters, Loralei
(Tommy) Perry of Newnan, Ga., and Jamie (Dale) Martin of Paw Paw;
her five grandchildren, Jennifer (Kevin) Beckman, Shelly Lhotka,
Chris (Emily) Hamilton, Leanne (Brian) Rowe and John Thomas Perry;
her four great-grandchildren, Myke, Evan, Keegan and Hannah; her
sister, Judy (Al) Lallinger; and her many nieces and nephews.
As to Marillyn’s wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be a
memorial service to honor Marillyn’s memory on Saturday, Oct. 13,
2012, beginning at 1 p.m. at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford.
Pastor Marla Thurman of New Life Harvest Ministries will officiate.
Marillyn’s ashes will be interred in Hill Cemetery, Lawrence.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorials in Marillyn’s name to “The
Wounded Warrior Project” in honor of her grandson, Lcpl. John Thomas
Perry, who is deployed in Afghanistan. Those wishing to leave
condolences may do so by visiting our website at
www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
NOTE:
Marilyn was a
1946 Hartford High School graduate.
|
Clara Edith Munson,
89, of Hartford died Sept. 29, 2012, at South Haven Community
Hospital in South Haven.
She was born on June 17, 1923, in Waterloo, N.Y. She was
married on Dec. 7, 1942, to Clifford Munson in Ossining, N.Y. He
preceded her in death.
She is survived by three sons, Clifford (Susan) Munson of St.
Joseph, Harold Munson of Dowagiac and John Munson of Hartford; two
daughters, Lillian (Scott) Turnbull of Lakeside, Calif., and Laurie
Hunt of Hartford; two brothers, Charles Alberda of Massachusetts and
John Alberda of Pennsylvania; 15 grandchildren; 28
greatgrandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
She was also preceded in death by special friend Warren Putnam.
Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. today at Keeler
Cemetery in Keeler Township. The family has been assisted by Hoven
Funeral Home in Buchanan.
|
Steven Arvil Warford,
48, of Hartford passed away on Oct. 1, 2012, at Lakeland Regional
Medical Center in St. Joseph.
Steven was born Aug. 23, 1964, in Watervliet. He was the son of
Steven and Jane (Smithley) Warford. His father preceded him in
passing.
Steven will be truly missed by his family, which consists of
his wife, Cheryl; two daughters, Janice (Josh) Snoeyink of Jenison
and Amanda Warford of Hartford; a son, Matthew Glover of St. Joseph;
a granddaughter, Madlyn Snoeyink of Jenison; his mother, Jane
(Larry) Wetzel of Hartford; a sister, Stephanie Warford of
Kalamazoo; and three brothers, Robert (Brendasue) Warford of Gobles,
Charles (Sylvia) Warford of Shipshewana, Ind., and Edwin Warford of
California, along with many other family members and friends.
As to Steven’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial
service to honor Steven’s memory will commence at 7 p.m. Thursday at
the New Apostolic Church in Watervliet, with the family receiving
friends starting at 6 p.m. until the time of service. District Elder
Mark Deifenbach will officiate. In lieu of flowers, please make
memorial donations to the family.
The Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford has been entrusted with the
arrangements.
|
Helen Elizabeth [Combes]
Willmeng,
of Coloma, passed into eternal life quietly at her home on September
25, 2012. For 97 years she
lived
her life in grace and kindness, loving all whom she came in contact
with. Most dear to her heart was her family. As the last surviving
member of “her” generation, she relished each family gathering that
often included her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren,
scores of nieces and nephews and many, many friends.
Helen was born June 18, 1915 in Bangor, Michigan, to Gail and
Letha (Stevenson) Combes.
She graduated from Hartford
High School in
1933
and was Salutatorian of her class. During her high school
years she was active in music playing, piano, cello and singing in
the Glee Club. In 1939 she married Gordon Willmeng of Watervliet and
to that union 8 children were born, 7 sons & 1 daughter. Prior to
her marriage she was employed by the State of Michigan in the
welfare department. For 50 years she and her husband lived and
worked on their family farm in Bainbridge.
Helen found time to teach knitting to 4-H girls for 30 years,
was a Cub Scout leader for 10 years and a member of the Literary
Guild for 60 years. Helen was a savvy bridge player up until recent
months and an even better golfer, acing her hole-in-one at 80 years
old. She loved to travel, enjoying many trips with her husband and
family. Upon retirement Gordon and Helen divided their time between
their home in Michigan and their sunny condo in Boca Raton, Florida.
After he husband’s death, she sold the family homestead and
moved to Coloma, building her beloved log home on the river. She was
active in the Paw Paw Lake Yacht Club and a member of St. Joseph
Catholic Church in Watervliet. Helen and Gordon were instrumental in
building the current church and school there. Her final wishes
provide for memorials to be made in her name to St. Joseph Catholic
School where her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren
were students.
Helen is survived by her five sons; Dr. Tom (Maryann) Willmeng
of Kalamazoo, Jerry (Charlene) Willmeng of Coloma, James (Allison)
Willmeng of Brandon, FL, Michael Willmeng of Coloma and David
Willmeng of Mattawan; 13 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.
In addition she leaves behind her niece Patti (George) Falkner of
Hartford, many loving nieces, nephews and faithful friends Rita
Lynch, Phyllis Bistyak and Joyce Smith.
She was preceded in death by her husband Gordon; two sons,
Stephen and John Willmeng and her daughter Mary Willmeng Coon.
A mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday
at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Watervliet with Fr. John Peter and
Fr. Don Wieber officiating. Visitation will be from 5:30-8:00 p.m.
Tuesday at Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home in Coloma with
recitation of the Rosary occurring at 7:30 p.m. Cremation has taken
place.
Those wishing to leave an online message
of comfort for the family may do so at www.duffieldpastrick.com.
|
Katie Bailey, 33,
died Wednesday morning, Sept. 19, 2012, at her mother’s residence in
Connersville, Ind.
Katie was born Oct. 29, 1978, in St. Joseph to Barbara E. McConnell.
Barbara married Vincent P. Roush in February of 1979, and Vincent
adopted Katie on Valentine’s Day of 1980.
In 1997 Katie graduated
from Hartford High School in Hartford. She continued her
education, earning a two-year degree in Child Care. Katie’s first
job was at McDonald’s at the age of 16. In her brief time on this
earth she held various forms of employment that included a
children’s day care and a preschool. She also watched other children
while raising her own two daughters.
Katie loved animals, especially cats and dogs. Whenever she
could Katie would have one or more as pets. Katie enjoyed helping
others and spending time with her family and friends. She possessed
an easygoing personality, although she could be fiercely supportive
to those she loved.
Katie married Steven J. Bailey, the father of her two
daughters, and although they divorced she continued being his friend
and also become friends with his wife, Amanda, when he remarried.
She had been for several years and still was in a relationship with
Cody Dark when she became ill.
Katie is survived by her mother, with whom she had resided; her
father, of Liberty, Ind.; her children, Elana Nicole Bailey and
Brianna Riley Bailey, both of Lawrence; her sister, Jessica Kay
Chitumalla and her husband, Venkat Vikram of Ocala, Fla.; her
maternal grandmother, Tinnie McConnell of Watervliet; and numerous
aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Katie was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Allen
James McConnell, three aunts and an uncle.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at 5 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 28, at New Life Christian Center, 6674 Paw Paw Avenue,
Coloma, with Pastor Larry Nail officiating. Memorial contributions
may be made to the American Cancer Society or to the Fayette County
Cancer Society, P.O. Box 480, Connersville, IN, 47331. For
additional information and to send condolences or memories, go to
www. ShowalterBlackwellLong.com.
|
Warren E. Lutin,
87, of Niles, went to be with his Lord on Tuesday, September 18,
2012.
He was born on February 25, 1925 in Hartford, Michigan to Clyde and
Pearl (Fredericks) Lutin.
On December 21st, 1951 Warren married Margaret Truhn at a ceremony
in South Bend, Indiana.
After serving his country in the U.S. Air Force during WWII, Warren
returned home and studied engineering at the University of Notre
Dame until he went to work for Bendix where he stayed until his
retirement. Warren enjoyed traveling, spending time with his
grandchildren, and vacationing at his family cottage at Gravel Lake
in Marcellus. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Niles and
the Niles American Legion.
He is preceded in death by his parents, a daughter Patricia Lutin,
and his siblings.
Warren is survived by his wife Margaret of Niles, two sons Richard
(Charlotte) Lutin of Indianapolis and George Lutin of Niles, a
daughter Barb Lutin of Niles, grandchildren Ann (Jeff) Bromley,
Jessica (Ryan) Glassman, Michael Lutin, Patrick Lutin, Kiera Lutin
and Estelle Lutin, a great-grandchild and several nieces and
nephews.
A memorial service will be held September 30th, 1:30 pm, at First
Baptist Church, 1446 E. Main Street in Niles.
Memorial contributions may be made in Warren’s memory to First
Baptist Church of Niles.
NOTE:
Warren was a
1942 Hartford
High School graduate. |
Marion Cobb, 70,
of Hartford passed away late on Wednesday, Sept. 5, at Lakeland
Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph.
Funeral arrangements celebrating his life will be held at 11
a.m. Saturday, Sept. 15, at the Dey-Florin Funeral Home, 2506 Niles
Ave., St. Joseph, with Rev. Franz Brandenburg officiating.
Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of the service
Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will be private at Crystal
Springs Cemetery in Benton Harbor. Memorials may be made to the
family. Messages of condolence may be sent to www.florin. net.
Bill was born on August 20, 1942, in Little River Township,
Missouri, to Frank and Nadine Cobb. He had many interests, including
training horses and attending races at the Hartford Speedway. Most
of all Bill enjoyed time spent with his family and friends –
particularly his grandchildren.
Bill is survived by his children, Beth Evelyn, Stacy and
William L. Cobb; stepchildren, Tammy, Tina, Danny and Rick
Hernandez; sister, Bertha Groszek; stepbrother, Bob Forgia;
stepsister, Diane Forgia; 11 grandchildren; and several
step-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his
wife, Jacqueline; his son, Martin Cobb; by a stepson, Sean
Hernandez; by his brother, Eugene Cobb; and by his stepbrother,
Jimmy Forgia.
|
Robert A. Frazee, 76, of
Benton Harbor passed away Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012, at Lakeland
Regional Medical Center
n
St. Joseph.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday,
Sept. 7, at Full Gospel Assembly, 55921 County Road 681, Hartford,
with Pastor Shannon Truelove officiating. Burial will follow in
North Shore Memory Gardens in Coloma. Friends may visit from 12 to 1
p.m. at the church. Memorials may be made to the Berrien County
Cancer Services. Those wishing to share a memory of Robert online
may do so at www.
starks-menchinger.com.
Robert was born on Sept. 12, 1935, in Hartford to Alonzo and
Minerva (Carol) Frazee. Robert was an accomplished truck driver,
with over a million miles driven with no accidents. He met Darleen
Gaddie in the late 1950s, and they were friends for many decades
before marrying Aug. 21, 2010. Robert loved his family and friends
very much and never met a stranger. He was always putting others
first and loved to serve them. A big supporter of MADD, he never
missed the first Tuesday-of-the-month talks his wife gave to help
others through tough times.
Robert is survived by his wife, Darleen Frazee of Benton
Harbor; sons, Robert (Cynthia) Frazee of Watervliet, James L. Frazee
of Benton Harbor; stepdaughter, Laurie (Jeff) Buesing of Buchanan;
grandchildren, Corey Robert Frazee of Stevensville, Angela Frazee of
Florida, Maya, Madison and Jamie Burke of Holland, Josh Frazee of
St. Joseph, and Lenee and Eric (Jessica) Buesing of Buchanan; and
great-grandchildren, Rylee Buesing and Ella Frazee.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Joyce
Frazee. |
Jeanne Marie Sweet,
79, of Hartford passed away suddenly Friday, Aug. 31, 2012, at
Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph.
Jeanne was born Jan. 22, 1933, in Chicago, the daughter of Leo
and Marguerite (Casserly) Carmody, both of whom preceded her in
passing. Also preceding her in passing were a brother, James Carmody
and a sister, Kathleen Mercer.
Jeanne was a graduate of Lawrence High School. She retired from
Keeler-Glasgow Greenhouses after years of loyal employment and also
worked at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Hartford. She
also enjoyed the many bookkeeping jobs she had at numerous places.
She was a great cook and loyal wife, mother, grandmother and sister
to her family, witnessed by the countless activities she attended
while her children were in school.
Jeanne married
David Sweet on Feb. 26, 1952. He survives, along
with a daughter, Shelly (Brian) Simpson of Sister Lakes; two sons,
Shaun (Julie) Sweet of Hartford and Wayne Sweet of Bangor; two
granddaughters, Emily Marie Romero and Autumn Lynn Sweet; a
grandson, Matthew Warner Simpson; a great-granddaughter, Rinoa
Isabell Romero; and three siblings, Leo (Karen) Carmody of Tucson,
Ariz., Richard Carmody of South Haven and Marguerita (Bob) Boley of
Bangor.
The family will welcome friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday,
Sept. 5, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where a rosary will
be said at 8 p.m. by Deacon Arthur Morsaw. The Mass of Christian
burial to celebrate her memory will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday,
Sept. 6, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Hartford,
with Father Fabio Garzon as celebrant. Burial will follow in Maple
Hill Cemetery, Hartford. The family requests memorial donations in
Jeanne’s memory be made to the church.
|
Brenda
Jean Pritchard, 67, of Hartford passed away on Monday,
Aug. 27, 2012, at South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Community.
Brenda was born Sept. 13, 1944, in Blytheville, Ark., the
daughter of Robert and Nova (Daniels) Benefield, both of whom
preceded her in passing. She was also preceded in passing by a
brother, Bobby Benefield, and a sister, Patricia Yeager.
On June 1, 1960, Brenda was united in marriage to Lewis
Pritchard. He survives along with their children, Debbie (Jeff)
Reeves of New Buffalo, Robert Pritchard and Ginger Tate, both of
Hartford, and Penny (Dave) Brown of Rotunda, Fla. She is also
survived by her grandchildren, Stacey Shafer of Hartford,
Christopher Drake of Rotunda, Amanda Tate of Hartford, Julie (Joel)
McGonigal of Rotunda, Jimmy Miller of Coloma; a great-grandson, Cody
Stinton of Hartford; a sister, LaVonne Streeter, and a brother,
Johnny Benefield, both of Nesbit, Miss.
Brenda not only had a great love for her husband, but also for
her Lord and her entire family. She enjoyed working with her many
friends at E.S. Enterprises in Keeler. She had a green thumb for
gardening, especially growing flowers and liked listening to country
music.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday,
Aug. 29, at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford. A celebration of
life service, to honor Brenda’s memory will be at 11 a.m. Thursday,
Aug. 30, at the funeral home. Brenda will be laid to rest in Maple
Hill Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to give a
memorial may do so to the family.
|
Patty Lou Bultema,
81, of St. Joseph passed away at Lakeland Continuing Care on
Thursday, Aug. 23, 2012. She
was
born on July 2, 1931, to the late Henry and Myrtle (Bigelow)
Courtney in Hartford.
Patty spent most of her working life in the care of the elderly
at Carson’s retirement home and later at Oles Homestead for the
aged. As a child she suffered from polio, which later led to the
disability that would cause her to retire early. She lived at
Lakeview Terrace high-rise and enjoyed watching her TV shows and
having visitors, going to weekly Bible study and her weekly outing
with friends. She was also a longtime member of Fairplain
Seventh-day Adventist Church in Benton Harbor. When she wasn’t
working she would often baby sit for others, and in that way she
became Nanny to many … and each of you knows who you are.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Mary
Bryant.
Patty is survived by her daughter, Bonnie (Scott) Lewis of
Benton Harbor; grandchildren, David and Elizabeth Lewis of Benton
Harbor; a sister, Bonnie (Bert) Rowe of Buchanan; and many other
friends and family members.
In keeping with Patty’s wishes she has been cremated, and a
memorial service will be held today, Saturday, Aug. 25, at 10:30
a.m. at Sarett Nature Center, located at 2300 Benton Center Road in
Benton Township.
Memorial donations may be made in Patty’s memory to Hospice at
Home, located at 4025 Health Park Lane, St. Joseph, MI 49085.
Those wishing to leave a message for the family or upload a photo of
Patty may do so at
www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com. Arrangements have been
entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Niles.
|
Jennie
Mayo Garrison,
92, of Hartford, passed away unexpectedly, on Thursday, Aug. 23,
2012, at her home.
Jennie was born May 3, 1920, in St. Joseph, the daughter of
James and Rose (Dana) Garlanger, both of whom precede her in
passing. She was also preceded in passing by: her first husband, J
L Garrison; her second, William (Don) Garrison; a daughter, Joan Lee
Tackett; a brother, James Garlanger; and two sisters, Rosie Burke
and Ruth Garlanger.
Jennie had a love for her family, which consists of four
grandchildren, Daryl Tackett of Covert, Kevin (Christina) Tackett of
Gobles, Michael (Helen) Tackett of Gordonsville, Va., and Donald
(Lisa) Tackett Jr. of Watervliet. She is also survived by: sixteen
great-grandchildren; a special niece, Jo Ann Hamilton-Lewis of Erie,
Pa.; and numerous other nieces and nephews. She will be missed by
several longtime friends, which includes her dear friend Irene King,
whom she has known for 85 years.
Jennie worked a number of jobs over the years which included
farming, Watervliet Paper Mill, and DuWel. Her final career move was
being the owner and operator of The Chuckwagon, a restaurant located
on the Benton Harbor Fruit Market. Jennie also enjoyed working on
sudoku puzzles, having family and friends visit, and an occasional
trip to the Senior Center or to a casino.
The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. on Monday, Aug.
27, at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford, where Jennie’s
celebration of life service will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday Aug.
28. Jennie will be laid to rest next to her first husband in
Fairview Memorial Cemetery, Watervliet Township. In lieu of flowers,
the family has requested memorials in Jennie’s name be made to
either the American Cancer Society or to the Humane Society.
|
John Merritt Robertson,
86, of Cedar Rapids [IA], passed away Aug. 18, 2012 at the West Ridge
Care Center.
Memorial
services will be held at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 22, 2012 at
Cedar Memorial Westside Chapel. Memorial visitation will take place
from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2012, also at Cedar Memorial
Westside Chapel.
Surviving are his children, Ria Jo Ghorbati and husband
Mohsen of Brooklyn Park, Minn., Leanne Gross and husband Steve of
Forest Knolls, Calif., and Merritt Robertson and wife Elizabeth of
Central City; grandchildren, John, Araizu and Kaveh Ghorbati, all of
Brooklyn Park, Minn.; his brother, Clarence Robertson and wife
Claudia of Albuquerque, N.M.; sister-in-law, Rai Ann Kramer and
husband Gary of Fairfax; as well as nieces and nephews.
John was preceded in death by his parents; and his
beloved wife Betty Lou, who passed on March 20, 2012.
John was born on June 7, 1926 in Hartford, Mich., the
son of Merritt E. and Mildred (Minshall) Robertson.
He served his
country honorably in the United States Navy during World War II. He
graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University
of Iowa. He was united in marriage to Betty Lou Martin on May 6,
1951 in Cedar Rapids. He began working at The Cedar Rapids Gazette
as a reporter. With over 41 years at The Gazette he worked his way
to and retired as the Executive Editor in 1991. He was a member of
the Iowa Newspaper Association and founded the Iowa Farmer Today
publication. He was named 1991 Master Editor Publisher by the Iowa
Newspaper Association. Through his several years in his journalism
career, John met many people, including many governors and
presidents George H.W. Bush and Jimmy Carter.
John was a member of Asbury United Methodist Church,
enjoyed playing golf at Elmcrest Country Club, and enjoyed bowling
and fishing. He was an active member of his neighborhood card club
that was established in 1954. He also was a member of the
Toastmasters Club, and was an avid reader. John enjoyed traveling
and he and Betty took many trips, including to Ireland, the Cayman
Islands and a two-week trip to Wyoming in the MG with the top down
the entire trip. He also traveled extensively with his family for
many summers.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in John’s honor
may be directed to the family or to a charity of the donor’s
choosing.
Please leave a message, tribute or memory to John’s
family on our webpage, www.cedarmemorial.com under Obituaries.
NOTE: John was a
1943 Hartford
High School graduate. |
Beulah Grice -
KALAMAZOO - went to be with the Lord Aug. 16, 2012.
She was born June 20, 1917, in Watervliet, the daughter of Frank and
Grace (Bradley) Smith.
She worked for Dr. Carl
Boothby in Hartford for 11 years. After that she and her
husband, Delvin, worked winters at Southwest Indian School in
Peoria, Ariz., for 11 years.
In Kalamazoo she did sewing for the Pregnancy Center and Cancer
Center. Later she did knitting for the hospitals and nursing homes.
Beulah was preceded in death by her husband, Delvin; her
sisters and their husbands, Genevieve and John Hiatt, Mildred and
Rodney Lynch, and
Betty and Carl Stuart; her daughter, Nancy Kass;
and grandson, Kip Kass.
She is survived by two grandchildren, Perry Kass and Korina
Kass Matthews, and two great-granddaughters, Kaitlyn and Kassandra
Matthews, all of California; several nieces and nephews; and
longtime friends, Doug and Sue Hoopingarner and family of Kalamazoo.
Friends will be received from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 26, at
Redmond Funeral Home, 4100 S. Westnedge Ave., Kalamazoo. Funeral
services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Aug. 27, at Lighthouse
Community Church, 4321 S. 11th St. in Kalamazoo, the Rev. Bruce
Howell officiating. Interment will follow in Watervliet Cemetery. In
lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lighthouse
Community Church or the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission.
|
Claudia Ruth Childs-Moor
died Saturday, Aug. 11, 2012. She passed away at White Oaks Assisted
Living Facility in Lawton, Mich.,
while
under the attention of Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan.
Claudia was born in Chicago on July 24, 1935. She
battled Alzheimer’s for many years, but through it all she had a
fantastic smile and was the most gracious person for the care and
attention that she was given. She never wished to inconvenience
anyone – to the point that she would go without before asking for
help.
Claudia started her career as a dietician but later
graduated from WMU with a degree in elementary education. She taught
in Coloma schools while finishing up her degree. She was a teacher
for four-five years in Forest Park., Ill., before settling in 1965
as a teacher for Watervliet Public Schools. She retired in 1988 from
teaching and enjoyed her gourmet cooking and many crafts that she
gave away as gifts to family and friends.
She resided in Hartford
until her retirement and moved to South Haven until her final
move to White Oaks five years ago. Claudia had the greatest
affection for children of all ages. She never greeted a child
without a smile, and many without a hug.
Claudia was preceded in death by her parents, Claude
Noble Childs and Ruth Edna Childs (Balmer).
Claudia is survived by a son, Russell (Maria) Moor; two
grandsons, Miller and Ernesto Moor; brother, Dale Childs; two
nieces, Mona Goatley and Roxanne Childs; and two longtime friends,
Amy Munjoy and Linda Podlin.
A celebration of Claudia’s life will be held at
Hutchins Funeral Home, Watervliet, at 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 18. Her
cremation will take place at Hoven Funeral Home, Buchanan. Memorials
in Claudia’s honor may be made to Alzheimer’s research.
NOTE:
Claudia was Valedictorian of the
1953 class of Hartford High School. She was also 1st
runner-up to Miss Hartford
1953.
|
Betty
Jean Yeske,
59, Watervliet, passed away Thursday, Aug. 9, 2012,
at her home.
Betty was born June 20, 1953, in Watervliet, the daughter of
Earl and Maxine (Ruple) Burg.
She worked at SBI Industries, where she was employed for five
years. Previously, she was employed with Modern Plastics for 34
years. In her spare time, she loved making crafts, cooking, sewing
and loved animals. But her most important times were in her personal
life, as she was a beloved and dedicated wife, mother and sister to
her family.
Betty was preceded in passing by her father, Earl.
Betty married Gregg Yeske on June 7, 1980. He survives, along
with two children, Melissa Burg Seymour of Laguna Niguel, Calif.,
and Rebecca Yeske of Hartford. Also surviving are her mother, Maxine
Burg of Hartford; two brothers, Robert (Eileen) Burg of Mountain
Home, Ark., and Donald Burg of Hartford; two nephews; and five
great-nieces.
The family will welcome friends from 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 14
at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service to honor her
memory will commence at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 15 at the funeral
home with Hans Frank officiating. The family requests memorial
donations in Betty’s name be made to the West Michigan Cancer Center
in Kalamazoo or Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan.
NOTE:
Betty was a 1971 Hartford High School graduate.
|
Barbara Ella Clark,
71, of Hartford died Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2012, at her home. Calvin
Funeral Home, Hartford, 621-4101. |
Harrell William “Bill”
Sorensen Sr., age 82, of Decatur passed away Saturday,
July 28, 2012, in Rose Arbor Hospice, Kalamazoo.
Bill was born Feb. 21, 1930, in Daytona Beach, Fla., the son of
Albert and Louise (Robinson Chase) Sorensen. He was a self-employed
farmer in Decatur for several years. He had sold Christmas trees in
Hinsdale, Ill., since 1959.
Survivors include four daughters, Cindy English of Niles, Judy
(Rufo) and Bob Christmas of Portage, Louann (Rufo) and Larry Queen
and Kristine Sorensen, both of Decatur; three sons, John Sorensen,
Harrell William “Billy” (Laruen) Sorensen Jr., and Tom (Heather)
Rugo, all of Decatur; 15 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and
two expectant; one great-great-granddaughter; four sisters, Grayce
(John) Walker of South Bend, Beverly (Melvin) Davis of Hartford,
Janet Sorensen of Oregon and Mittie Lower of Indianapolis; and a
brother, Kenneth (Pat) Sorensen of Tennessee.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Jack
Sorensen.
Friends may call from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday in the Newell Funeral
Home, Decatur, where funeral services will be held at 11 a.m.
Wednesday, with Pastor Eric Jackson officiating.
Burial will be in Hamilton Cemetery, Decatur. Memorials may be
made to West Michigan Cancer Center or Hospice of Southwest
Michigan.
|
George S. Pipkins, 67, of Hartford passed away July
23, 2012, at his home surrounded by his family.
Services celebrating his life will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at
Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral home in Coloma, where visitation
will be from 5-8 p.m. Thursday. Burial with military honors will be
in Fairview Cemetery in Watervliet. Donations in memory of George
may be made to Hospice at Home. Those wishing to leave an online
message of comfort for the family may do so at
www.duffieldpastrick.com.
George was born July 12, 1945, in Benton Harbor to Paul and
Imogena (Nix) Pipkins. He was employed by International Student
Exchange for 23 years and also Mann Metal for an additional 23
years.
He was also a veteran of the Army, serving during the Vietnam era.
George enjoyed spending time with his kids, grandkids and
great-grandkids, traveling and music, playing in his own band for 25
years.
Survivors include his wife, Pauline (Moore), whom he married
May 2, 1984; children, Charlie (Theresa) Broadhurst of Watervliet,
Joe (Tammy) Diehl of Hartford, Jamie (Cindy) Diehl, Paul (Tanya)
Pipkins of St. Joseph, Laurie Pipkins, Heather (Nacer) Tag, and Dawn
and Tracy Cooley, all of Hartford. Also surviving are two sisters,
Anna (Pete) Bizzle of Ripley, Tenn, and Belinda (Chuck) Sherman of
South Haven; 12 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and 45
foreign children.
In addition to his parents George was preceded in death by a
sister, Patsy Poole; two brothers, Leonard and Paul Pipkins; and a
granddaughter, Marinda Leisure.
|
June Barbara Bohle,
86, of Hartford passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 22, 2012, at
her home.
June was born May 27, 1926, in Oak Park, Ill., the daughter of
Charles and Blanche (Kosthka) Hybl, both of whom preceded her in
passing. June was also preceded by her husband, Ernest, on Feb. 14,
1993.
June will be missed dearly by her family, which consists of her
children: Daniel (Patricia) Bohle of Hartford, and their children,
Emily, Daniel Jr. and Jessica, and a great-grandson, Alden;
Elizabeth (Eric) Buford of Jones and their children, Antionette,
Mark, Vincent and Erica, and great-grandchildren, Niki, Sam,
Stephan, Kaylan, Elijah, Sidney, Isaiah, Taegan, Karsen and Arriona;
Georgette (Mark) Harrison of Helena, Mont., and their children,
Samantha and Cameronj; and Christine (Mark) Schroeder of
Mechanicsville, Va., and their children, Matthew, Ryan and William.
June is also survived by two brothers, Charles of Chicago and her
twin, Jack, of San Francisco.
June was a devoted member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic
Church of Hartford. Her love of people led her to organize and host
the Catholic members of the high school senior class breakfast for
twenty five years. She was formerly employed at Community Hospital
in Watervliet as a Registered Nurse, the Van Buren County Health
Department and the Martin Luther Nursing Home in South Haven.
Her family will welcome friends at the family farm from 6-8
p.m. Thursday, July 26, at 51960 County Road 681, Hartford. On
Friday, July 27, at 11 a.m. the Mass of Christian Burial will take
place at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Hartford. June
will be laid to rest in Hill Cemetery, Lawrence, followed by a
luncheon at the church. In lieu of flowers the family has asked that
memorials be made to the church. The Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford
has been entrusted with the arrangements.
|
Patricia Mack,
age 74, of Keeler, passed away at Lakeland Regional
Medical Center on Friday July 20, 2012.
Patricia's life began on October 13, 1937 in Herron,
IL, the daughter of Harold and Rose (James) Webb.
She was a 1955 graduate of Elkhart Central High School and a
graduate of the South Bend Business School.
Patricia also earned her bachelor's
degree from Indiana University. Following graduation from business
school, she worked for several Elkhart area businesses including
Wells Cargo. After earning her teaching degree at University of
Indiana, Patricia taught both
elementary and high school science in Libertyville, IL, Jimtown High
School, Cedar Rapids, IA, and Kohler, WI. She also worked as an
administrative assistant in the pediatric ward of the University of
Iowa Medical Center and for the emergency medical services in Iowa
City. After leaving the professional world,
Patricia cared for her mother in
her home for several years. Patricia
was united in marriage to Jeffery Mack
on June 7, 1970 in Elkhart. She loved to fish, play scrabble and
cards. Patricia was an excellent
cook that made everything taste good. She loved the six Irish
Setters she adopted from shelters over the last 35 years and was
always on the hunt for a good bargain at Goodwill's all over the
area. Patricia was a member of the
Keeler United Methodist Church.
Her loving family includes her husband of 42 years, Jeffrey
Mack of Keeler, her brother Harold (Donna) Webb of
Indianapolis, and nephews Jim Webb of Tennessee, Kevin Webb of
Indianapolis, Dennis Webb of Indianapolis, Kenneth Webb of Ohio, and
Roger Webb of Indianapolis.
She is preceded in death by her parents. Her family will gather
with friends on Tuesday from 10-11 a.m. at Keeler United Methodist
Church where her memorial service will be conducted at 11 a.m. led
by Pastor Heather McDougall. She will be laid to rest in Keeler
Cemetery. Memorial contributions in her name may be directed to
Hospice at Home. Yazel & Clark Chapel is serving the family. Please
sign her guestbook and leave a memory of
Patricia at www.yazel-clark.com.
|
Lance
Allan Coburn,
Hartford, was born on April 8, 1962, and passed away on July 12,
2012, at the age 50.
He was a very special person who had a very rough and rocky
road ahead of him since the day he was born, but also had good days
and good times. He was very caring and a generous person and would
help anyone in need when he could. He truly was a blessing to us.
He loved animals, his Bible, and loved to fish and enjoyed the
flea markets. In his earlier years, he worked at McDonald’s and a
printing shop in St. Joseph before he became disabled. He had a
wonderful since of humor and could make us laugh.
He knew his Lord and Savior and was ready to see him and loved
ones. He is free from sickness and pain and very much alive – never
more to die.
Lance will be very much missed by those who loved him.
He is survived by his mother, Judy Coburn, and his aunts and
cousins. His father, Allan Coburn, preceded him in death.
A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 3, 2012,
at Yore Community Church, 2690 Yore Ave., Sodus (off Napier Avenue).
|
Gary Wayne Heffington,
65, of Hartford passed away on Tuesday, July 10, 2012, at Lakeland
Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph.
Gary was born June 20, 1947, in Morley, Mo., the son of Cubie and
Thelma (Finney) Heffington, both of whom preceded him in passing. He
was also preceded in passing by three brothers, Junior, Leeroy and
Alvin Heffington; three sisters, Lois Doberstein, Katherine Rogers
and Joyce Ann Heffington; two sisters-in-law, Betty and Sally
Heffington; and two brothers-in-law, Gerald Fuller and Herbert
Doberstein.
Gary was a family man by nature and loved spending time with
his family, especially his grandchildren. He was a loving husband
to his wife, Jackie, who survives along with his two daughters,
Tamara (Gary) Ackerman and Tonya (Cory) Gargus, both of Hartford,
and his grandchildren, Brittany, Jade, Hunter, Macey, Trey, Andrew
and Rylee. He is also survived by three brothers, Gene Heffington,
Donnie Heffington and Tommy Joe (Mary) Heffington; four
sisters-in-law, Stella Heffington, Charlene Heffington, Roberta
Heffington and Barbara Layer; six brothers-in-law, Harry (Liz)
Fuller, Tom (Cathy) Fuller, David Fuller, John (Patsy) Briggs, Allen
(Shirley) Briggs and Michael Wilds; and numerous other family
members and friends.
Gary enjoyed working on old motors of all kinds, watching
westerns and listening to gospel music.
Gary’s family will receive friends from noon to 1 p.m. Monday,
July 16, 2012, at the Full Gospel Assembly in Hartford, where his
celebration of life will begin at 1 p.m. Pastor Tommy Fuller will
officiate. Gary will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery in
Hartford. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to do a memorial may do
so to the family. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home
in Hartford with the arrangements.
|
Erwin
(Butch) George Hildebrand, 81, former resident of Watervliet
and Hartford, died on Monday, July 9, 2012, at Lakeland Continuing
Care
Center in St. Joseph. Arrangements have been entrusted with Starks &
Menchinger Family Funeral Home of St. Joseph.
Erwin was born Oct. 15, 1930, in St. Joseph to Gustav and
Katherine (Ryll) Hildebrand. He graduated from St. Joseph High
School in 1948. Erwin served his country while in the U.S. Army
during the Korean War. He was a parts manager over 20 years at
Rogel’s in Watervliet. Erwin was a member of Salem Lutheran Church
in Coloma and a former member of the VFW. He enjoyed golf, bowling,
casinos, helping on the farm and fixing cars.
Erwin is survived by his four children, Timothy (Darcel)
Hildebrand of Hartford, Tom (Sarah) Hildebrand of Plainwell, Cathy
(Ray) Dalrymple of St. Joseph and Connie (Mitchell) Hirsch of St.
Joseph; two grandchildren, Hillary and Bradley Dalrymple; a sister,
Alberta Kettlehut of Benton Harbor; his caregiver and friend, Tammy
Rodgers; and his beloved Max, who he loved to house sit for.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Art and
Harold, and two sisters, Dorothy and Hildegard.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 10 a.m. on
Friday, July 13, at Starks & Menchinger Family Funeral Home, 2650
Niles Road, St. Joseph, with Pastor Andrew Menz officiating.
Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, July 12, at the
funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Salem Lutheran
Church of Coloma or to the Athletic Department at St. Joseph High
School. Friends wishing to leave a message of condolence may do so
at www.starks-menchinger.com.
|
Dorothy I. Bond,
73, of Gobles, formerly of Hartford, passed away Wednesday, July 4,
2012,
in Bloomingdale.
Dorothy was born January 30, 1939, in Benton, Ark., the
daughter of Alvin and Cora (Miller) Hester and had lived in the
Hartford, Bangor and Gobles areas the majority of her life. She was
an avid reader and enjoyed writing and bicycling.
Surviving are two children, Tim (Diane) of Mattawan, and Vicki
(Joseph) Maxa of Fennville.
She was preceded in death by her parents and an aunt, Zola.
Following her wishes, cremation has taken place. Private burial
will take place at a later date in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford.
The family suggests memorial contributions to the American Red Cross
or Paws for a Cause, Wayland. Arrangements by Bloomingdale Chapel,
D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.
NOTE: Dorothy
"Pat" was a
1956 Hartford High School graduate.
|
Van
Moore,
68, of Coloma passed away at home, Saturday, June 30, 2012.
Per his wishes burial has taken place in Coloma Cemetery. A private
family memorial service will be held at a later date. Those wishing
to leave an online message of comfort for the family may do so at
www.duffieldpastrick.com. Donations in memory of Van may be made to
the Salvation Army or the Soup Kitchen.
Van was born June 3, 1944, in Coloma to Dave and Roena (Shafer)
Moore. He grew up in Hartford, Mich., where he farmed Van-O-Farms
for 20 years. He was also a volunteer fireman and EMT for Hartford
Township. For the past 29 years he has worked in the fruit sales
business working for Hilltop Nurseries, then becoming self employed
as the Nursery Connection.
Survivors include his wife, Jan, whom he married Feb. 14, 1984;
six children, Terri Moore of Hartford, Sandi Werner of Phoenix,
Brian (Terri) Riemland of Coloma, Wendy (Marc) Cole of Louisville,
Ky., Shannon (Michael Myers) Rauner of Kalamazoo, and Tony (Angela)
King of Allegan. Also surviving are two brothers, Gary Moore of
Hartford, Ross Moore of St. Joseph, nine granddaughters, one
grandson and one great-granddaughter.
Note: Van was from
the
1963 Class of Hartford High School.
|
Evelyn “Winnie” Hagen,
99, died June 30, 2012, at South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation,
where she had been a resident for the past eight years.
She was born Feb. 9, 1913, in Benton Harbor, the daughter of
Robert and Edythe Capen. She attended Benton Harbor High School.
In 1934 she married Edward E. Hagen and they continued to live in
Benton Harbor until 1947,
when they purchased a grocery store in Keeler, Mich. In 1965 they
sold the Keeler store and moved to Riverside. Mrs. Hagen
worked for several years in the offices of the Boy Scouts of America
and also for the American Cancer Society. Later, Mrs. Hagen resided
in Encinitas, Calif., until illness forced her to return to Michigan
to be closer to family.
Mrs. Hagen was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters,
her husband and two granddaughters.
She is survived by her three children, Edward R. Hagen of
Lawrence, Sue Cobianco of Kalispell, Mont. and Marilyn Willenbrink
of Bluffton, S.C.; two sisters, Florence Saltzman of Spring, Texas,
and Fern Hull of Laguna Hills, Calif., as well as nine
grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, one great-great-granddaughter
and numerous nieces and nephews.
Services will be private at a later date. Memorials can be made
to a charity of your choice.
|

Maxine Ziemek,
90, of Paw Paw, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 27, 2012
at her residence with her family by her side.
Maxine Ziemek was born on November 1, 1921 in Kalamazoo to the
late Arthur and Vena (Belle) Haney.
Maxine is survived by her husband Steve Ziemek of Paw Paw, two
sons, James (Patricia) Empson Jr. of Traverse City, Michigan and
John A. Empson of Hartford, Michigan, daughter Joan (John) Duncan of
Lawrence, Michigan, six grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren
and one great-great-grandchild.
She was preceded in death by her first husband, James Clifton
Empson; her granddaughter,
Leane Kellogg;
five brothers and one sister.
In keeping with Maxine’s wishes cremation has taken place and
there will be a private family memorial at a later date.
|
Opal
Rhinehart Thompson,
of Dothan AL, passed away Wednesday, June 27, 2012, at Flowers
Hospital after a short illness. She was 90.
Funeral services will be held at 2 P.M. Sunday, July 1,
2012, at the Denton Road United Methodist Church with Reverend John
Baxter officiating. Burial will follow in Gardens of Memory Cemetery
with Ward Wilson Funeral Home directing. The family will be
receiving friends at the funeral home from 6 to 8 P.M. Saturday,
June 30, 2012. In lieu of flowers, the family request that
contributions be made to the Denton Road United Methodist Church or
to the Humane Society.
She is survived by her husband of 43 years, E. C. (Tom)
Thompson; her daughter, Marcia Rhinehart; her son, Jimmy Rhinehart;
and her Grandson, Captain Robert Allen and his wife Kristy and many
of her sisters and brothers. She was preceded in death by her
parents, Luella and Chet Swisher and her first husband,
Major James W. Rhinehart who was killed in a helicopter accident
in 1965.
Opal loved working in her yard and taking care of her
beautiful flowers. She had many friends and family members both here
in the Dothan area, Michigan, and throughout the United States. One
thing many did not know was that she worked on assembly lines during
World War II as one of the original "Rosie Riveters" assembling
parts for aircraft. She will be greatly missed by all.
Ward Wilson Memory Hill Funeral Home, Cemetery &
Crematory, (334) 792-4194, is in charge of arrangements. Visit us at
www.wardwilson.com. Sign the guest book at www.dothaneagle.com.
|
Frank
Edward Cotman Sr., 90, of Hartford, passed away
Sunday, June 24, 2012, at his home.
Frank was born Aug. 22, 1921, in Chicago, the son of Frank and
Jenney (Music) Cotman, both of whom preceded him in passing. Also
preceding him in passing was his wife, Lucy, on March 9, 1999.
Frank honorably served his country in the United States Army Air
Force during World War II. He was formerly employed with Auto
Specialties at its Hartford plant, Clark Equipment of Benton Harbor
and Gast Manufacturing of Benton Harbor, from where he retired. He
was a member of the American Legion Stoddard Post 93 of Hartford.
Frank is survived by a daughter, Angie (Tommy) Campanaro of
Glendale, Ariz.; a son,
Frank Jr. (Virginia) Cotman of Hartford;
three grandchildren – Frankie, Dustin and Andy; and a great
granddaughter, Kaleia.
As per Frank’s wishes, cremation has taken place. The family
will welcome friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 29, at the Calvin
Funeral Home, Hartford. Military rites will be performed at 7 p.m.
by the North Berrien Military Rites Team. In lieu of flowers, the
family requests memorial donations in Frank’s name be made to
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.
Note: Frank was a
1940 Hartford High School graduate.
|
Alma B. Canada-Neal,
94, a Berrien Springs resident since 1968, died Saturday, June 23,
2012, at her home.
Funeral
services will be at noon Monday, July 2, at Pioneer Memorial Church
on the campus of Andrews University, where she was a member. Friends
are invited to call from 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday, July 1, at the Allred
Funeral Home in Berrien Springs, and to leave online messages at
www.allredfuneralhome. com. Alma will be laid to rest in Elm Ridge
Memorial Park, Muncie, Ind. Memorial contributions may be made to
Andrews Academy, Indiana Academy, 3ABN or Friends in Faith Community
Church. She was born Aug. 26, 1917, in Muncie, the daughter and only
child of Marion and Ruth (Hosier) Harman.
She taught school for more than 20 years and worked with her
husband, Orvel Canada, in church evangelism ministry for 38 years.
An accomplished organist, Alma played locally for the Watervliet
Plymouth Congregational Church for 22 years and for the Friends In
Faith Community Church in Eau Claire. In addition, she owned and
operated the Canada AFC Homes in Berrien Springs for 32 years before
her retirement. Alma is survived by a son, Byron Canada;
stepdaughter, Marilyn (David) Bender of Berrien Springs; 14
grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and two
great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her first
husband,
Orvel Canada, on Feb. 21, 1970; her second husband, Donald Neal,
on Oct. 11, 1987; her son, Vernon Canada, on June 25, 2001; and her
daughter, Norma Jean Putnam, on April 21, 2003.
NOTE:
Alma was an elementary teacher in Hartford during the late 1960s and
1970s.
|
John Loren Skeans,
79, of Bangor passed away on Thursday, June 21, 2012, at Borgess
Medical Center, Kalamazoo.
John was born April 11, 1933, in Mackville, Ky., the son of
John and Ethel (Roney) Skeans, both of whom precede him in passing.
John was also preceded in passing by his wife, Norma.
John’s surviving family consists of his daughter, Paula
(Richard) Brand of Munster, Ind., his son, Loren Michael (Cynthia)
Skeans of Leesburg, Fla., and his daughter, Joy Skeans of
Chesterton, Ind.; four grandchildren, Nicole, Michael, Ashley and
Nikki; three great-grandchildren, one brother and two sisters.
John retired from Kaiser Aluminum after 35 years of faithful
employment. John enjoyed his retirement to the fullest and loved
working in his garden.
The family will receive friends from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday,
June 25, at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford, where at 1 p.m. the
service to honor his memory will begin. The Reverend Wayne Babcock
will officiate. John will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery,
Hartford.
|
Dina L. Rajzer,
58, of Decatur passed away Wednesday, June 20, 2012, in Bronson
Lakeview Hospital, Paw Paw. Dina was born
Jan.
25, 1954, in Blue Island, Ill., the daughter of Dino and Louise (DeRossi)
Rigoni.
She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Education
from Michigan State University in 1977, and a Masters in Business
Management from Western Michigan University in 1987.
She formerly taught at
Davenport College and Hartford Public Schools.
She was in business with her husband Chris and was co-owner of
Rajzer Farm Market and Greenhouse and Rajzer Farms LLC.
She married Chris Rajzer on Aug. 18, 1973 and he survives. Also
surviving, daughter, Julie Rajzer of Gross Pointe Woods., Mich.;
son, Brian (Emelee) Rajzer of Decatur; grandson, Brandon Rejzer of
Decatur; mother, Louise Rigoni of Decatur; father, Dino Rigoni of
Decatur; two sisters Maryann Rigoni of Portage, Mich. and Janet
(Chris Campbell) Rigoni of Virginia and brother Steve (Sue) Rigoni
of Paw Paw.
Friends may call from 4-8 p.m. Friday in the Newell Funeral
Home, Decatur where a rosary will be recited at 7:30 p.m. Mass of
Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, in Holy Family
Catholic Church in Decatur, of which she was a member, with Father
Patrick Craig, celebrant. Burial will take place in Lakeside
Cemetery in Decatur. Memorials may be made to Holy Family
Scholarship Fund.
|
Linda L. (Griffith) Hester,
64, of Hartford died peacefully at home June 14, 2012. A memorial
service will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, June 22, at Red Arrow General
Baptist Church, 3207 E. Euclid, Benton Harbor. Dinner will follow
the service. Cremation has taken place.
Linda was born July 14, 1947, in Benton
Harbor. She loved spending time with family and friends,
crocheting and fishing. She was an avid Nascar fan.
Survivors include her loving partner and
best friend of 17 years, Daniel Ruple Sr. of Hartford; three sons,
Bob Miller of Benton Harbor, Rick (Monica) Miller of Baroda and
Terry Baker Jr. (Karen Taylor) of Watervliet. She had 13
grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and
nephews.
She was preceded in death by her mother,
Lilian Roberts Griffith; father, Lee Griffith; sister, Lois
Whitaker; and brothers, Loren Griffith and Larry Griffith. Hoven
Funeral Home in Buchanan has taken care of the family arrangements.
|
Diana Renee Blair,
73, of Hartford died on Wednesday, May 23, 2012, surrounded by her
caring family at the home of her
daughter
in Marshall after a two-year, hard fought battle with CNS lymphoma
(brain cancer).
Diana was born on March 25, 1939, in South Bend, Ind.,
to Keith and Esther (Miller) Crowder Sr. She graduated from Benton
Harbor High School in 1957. Diana began work at the age of 14 for
the state Senate (a work program provided through Benton Harbor
Schools) to support her family when her mother was paralyzed from
polio. She ended a 25-year career with the state of Michigan at the
Benton Harbor unemployment office.
Diana will be remembered for her involvement and
service to her community of Hartford, donating her time and money to
the Hartford Public Schools, local food pantry, board of review and
anyone who was in need. Many of her years in Hartford were spent as
a foster mom. She enjoyed going out to support the local band and
theater productions and was always there for the important events in
her children’s and grandchildren’s lives. In addition to community
service, Diana enjoyed reading, gardening, traveling and especially
spending time with her grandchildren.
She is survived by her children, Sue (Phil) Deitrich of
Marshall, David (Aimee) Blair of Edwardsburg and Steve (Kim)
Glowacki of Niles; her grandchildren, Zach, Ariel, Micah and Drew
Deitrich; a brother, Keith (Kathy) Crowder; and several nieces and
nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother,
Barry Crowder.
Per her request, a Celebration of Life Party will be
held on June 23, 2012, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Hartford Federated
Church, 65418 Red Arrow Highway in Hartford. Memorial contributions
may be made to the Hartford High School Band Boosters or the
American Cancer Society.
|
Grace
Bosker Craik Wagner, a longtime Lake Leelanau summer
resident, died May 5. She was 97.
Grace was the daughter of Peter and Alice Bosker of
Kalamazoo. She was an alumna of Kalamazoo College, Western Michigan
University and the University of Michigan and
taught Latin and English in
Hartford [1936-1938] and Ann Arbor, Mich. She was famous for taking her
high school Latin scholars to Rome for spring break.
She lived in Naples, Fla. from 1972 to the present and
traveled to Lake Leelanau in the summers as long as she was able.
Grace was preceded in death by her first husband Roy
Alton Craik, her second husband Edwin Richard Wagner, her brother
Peter Bosker and three sisters: Alyce Bosker Squibb, Anne Bosker
Trimpe and Fred Bosker VanderSalm.
She is survived by her daughter Nancy Craik (Stephen)
Beights.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent
to: Habitat for Humanity, 11145 Tamiami Trail E., Naples, Fla. or
the Grace and Edwin Wagner Memorial Fund.
|
Darlene
Horton was born April 18, 1937, to
Fred and Loretta (Parshall) Winans, both of whom preceded her in
passing on June 11, 2012..
She was also preceded in passing by her sister, Karen Winans;
brothers, Gene, Duane and Larry Winans ; daughter, Dawn Howley; and
stepchildren, Greg Horton and Debbie Horton.
Survivors include her husband, Donald Horton; children, Denise
Daniel, Dara Daniel and Douglas Daniel; stepchildren, Darrell and
John Howley; sister, Phyllis Kling; brothers, Fred and Don Winans;
loving sisters-in-law, Peggy and Gloria Winans; grandchildren,
Briana Melanson and Beau Daniel; and stepgrandchildren, Jordan and
Danielle.
Darlene and Don Horton owned and operated D&D Grill in
Watervliet for six years. Prior to that, Darlene was a school bus
driver, and before that worked at Gran Tran. Darlene was a people
person and always had love in her heart and laughter to share with
her friends and family. Her pride and joy in life were her children,
grandchildren and family. Her passion was cooking and baking cakes,
pies and cookies and sharing her creations with friends and family.
She never complained when times were hard, and made the best out of
everything. She had joy in her heart to reunite with those who had
passed before her. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and
loved her.
Cremation was requested, and no services will be held at this
time.
|
Steven
B. MacGowan of
Sodus, formerly of Hartford, passed away at his home on June 12,
2012, at the age of 58.
He is survived by his wife of 33
years, Angelika (Skale); son, Sean; sister, Janet (Stan) Langston of
Waterford; sister-in law, Hildegard Krueger of Niles;
brothers-in-law, Erich (Marie) Skale of Elkhart, Ind., and Arthur
(Linda) Skale of St. Joseph; also many cousins, nieces, nephews and
loving friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter,
Samantha, and his parents,
Carmen and
Shirley
MacGowan of Hartford.
Steve was born July 20, 1953, and
graduated from Hartford High School in 1971.
He attended Lake Michigan College before moving to Glendale, Ariz.,
in 1973, where he pursued his passion for music. Upon returning to
Michigan on 1976, he worked at Bangor Cooler in Hartford while
studying and perfecting his artistic talents. Steve had been an
accomplished wood relief artist for more than 30 years and his works
had appeared in galleries and museums throughout Michigan as well as
cities such as New York, Philadelphia, Chicago and Saugatuck.
In addition to his career, Steve was an avid golfer, a skilled
guitarist and an enthusiastic collector of antiquities. Even during
the course of his illness, his unique sense of humor was enjoyed by
all who knew him. A visitation will be held at Starks &
Menchinger Chapel, Friday, June 15, from 5 to 8 p.m. A Celebration
of Life Eternal will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at St. Matthew’s
Lutheran Church, Colfax and Kline avenues in Benton Harbor. In lieu
of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church.
Those wishing to sign Steve’s Memory Book online may do so at
www.starks-menchinger.com.
|

Peggy Ann Trowbridge, 66, of Hartford passed away
suddenly Monday afternoon, June 11, 2012. Peggy was born in
Hamilton, Ala.
She was preceded in death by her
father, Grover Townley; mother, Quillie Mae Hurst; and brother,
Bill. Surviving are her daughters, Lisa
(Christopher) Isfort and Hope (Scott) Ritts; grandchildren – Kelsey,
Nathan and Hannah; her stepfather, Gerald Hurst; brothers, Bob
Townley and Jerry Hurst; and several nieces and nephews.
There will be no visitation. A memorial gathering will be held at a
later date. Memorials may be directed to the American Cancer
Society. Arrangements are by Langeland Family Funeral Homes,
Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick, Kalamazoo. Please visit Peggy’s
personalized guestbook at www.langelands.com
|
Carl “Dusty” Druskovich,
84, of Decatur passed away Monday, May 28, 2012, at home.
Carl was born April 6, 1928, in Bainbridge Township, the son of
Steve and Susie Druskovich. He farmed in Decatur for several years.
He was a member of the Decatur Lions and a life member of Decatur
Lodge No. 99 F&AM.
He married Nellie Young on July 18, 1953, in Decatur and she
survives. Also surviving are two daughters Sandy (Doug) Athey of
Decatur and Dr. Sally Orr of Ahmeek, Mich.; three sons, Dr. Carl
(Amy) Druskovich of Decatur, Dr. Gary (Nancy) Druskovich of
Kalamazoo and Dan (Judy) Druskovich of Traverse City, Mich.; eight
grandchildren; three great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Pauline
Sila and Olga Rudar, and two brothers, Steve and Emil Druskovich.
Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. today at the Newell Funeral Home,
Decatur, where funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday with
Mr. James Abshagen officiating. Burial will be in Hamilton Cemetery,
Decatur.
Memorials may be made to Webster Memorial Library in Decatur or
Decatur High School Willis C. Bates National Honor Society.
NOTE: Carl was from
the
1945 class of Hartford High School.
|
Mike "Beard" Kelley,
58, of Hartford passed away Friday, May 25, 2012, after a heroic
battle with cancer.
Mike was born April 1, 1954, in Watervliet to John Doyle (JD)
and Dorothy (Starbuck) Kelley.
He was from the 1973 class
of Hartford High School and lived in Hartford most of his
life. His working years were spent with Conrail Railroad based out
of Kalamazoo.
Mike is survived by his loving wife of 22 years, Marcia
(Culbertson) and the daughter he was so proud of, Chelsea Lynn
Kelley of Kalamazoo. Also surviving are his mother, Dorothy Kelley
of Hartford; sister, Betty (David) Owens of Kentucky; sister, Linda
(Mike) Ahles of West Olive; sister, Donna Jean McGowan of Hartford;
and brother, John Kelley of Interlochen; brother-in-law, Richard
Culbertson of Tennessee, sisters-in-law, Robin (Mark) Heminger of
Hartford, Toni (Eugene) Ormond of Las Vegas and Vickie (Jerry) Kirby
of Hartford.
He was uncle to many and known by most as “Big Mike.” He will
be greatly missed.
Mike was preceded in death by his father, JD Kelley, his
mother-in-law, Dorothy Culbertson and sister-inlaw, Janet
Culbertson.
Mike loved his family, walking, motorcycle riding, The Grateful
Dead, and doing for others. He had too many friends to mention by
name for fear of leaving someone out but through these last tough
months Mike was befriended by a someone who went way above and
beyond, Bruce Flowers.
Visitation will be held at the Hartford United Methodist Church
from 11 a.m. until the start of the funeral service at 1 p.m.
Donations may be made to the Alvan Humane Society or the Hartford
United Methodist Church food pantry in lieu of flowers.
The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home with
arrangements.
|

James Jefferson Davis,
67, of Dowagiac passed away April 27, 2012, at Borgess Medical
Center in Kalamazoo. Hoven Funeral Home, Buchanan, 695-2363.
A family memorial service will be held at a later
date.
NOTE: James was a
1962 Hartford High School graduate. He served in the
US Army during VietNam.
|
Harry Allen Shumaker,
55, of Hartford passed away on Friday, April 27, 2012, at Borgess
Medical Center, Kalamazoo. Harry was born on Sept. 30, 1956, in
Elkhart, Ind., the son of Roy and Arlene (Freehling) Shumaker. His
father preceded him in passing, along with a son, Clinton Stockton.
Harry married Sherrie Brant on March 3, 1980. She survives,
along with his four daughters, Amy Johnson of Riverside, Kimberly
Stockton of Coloma, Dianne (Leslie) Haff of Buchanan and Kristia
(Scott) Eastman of Hartford; 12 grandchildren, Specialist Samuel
Melton, Eric, Candace, Brandon, Leann, Brittany, Rhea, Clinton,
Omar, Fantasia, Kaniya and Tori; a great-granddaughter, Avahea; his
mother, Arlene of South Haven; a sister, Laurie (Richard) Bailey of
Arkansas; and a brother, Dennis (Lynette) Shumaker of Sawyer.
Harry was a truck driver by trade and was formerly employed by
Motycka Trucking of Lawton until his health prohibited him from
working.
There will be a memorial celebration at the family home at
52664 67 1/2 Street in Hartford at 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 6, 2012.
The Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford has been entrusted with the
arrangements.
Those wishing to give a memorial in Harry’s name may do so to
the family.
|
Naomi Zook
passed away Wednesday, April 25, 2012, at her
home. Naomi was born Dec. 11, 1929, in Chicago, the daughter of Adam
and Marie Czajkowski, and had lived in this area the majority of her
life.
She enjoyed archery, for which she earned the title of Champion
in the South West Michigan Archery League in 1953. She also enjoyed
reading and worked at Standard Coil in Bangor.
Surviving are three children, Mark (Jeanette) of West Virginia,
Becky (Larry) Woodley of Hartford and Peggy (Randy) Ruppel of
Hartford; and a granddaughter, Heather (Brian Tibbs) Ruppel.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Warren, a grandson,
Jason, and her parents.
The family will meet friends 3-7 p.m. on Sunday at the Bangor
Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home (www.dlmillerfuneralhome. com),
where funeral services will take place at 11 a.m. on Monday, with
Pastor Marla Thurman officiating. Memorial contributions may be made
to the family to assist with funeral expenses.
|
Tommy Junior Johnson,
65, of Hartford passed away Monday, April
23, 2012, at home. He was born Aug. 1, 1946, in Braggadocio, Mo.
Survivors include two sons, Tommy Johnson and David Johnson;
one daughter, Melissa Johnson; and one stepson, Jay Kemp; his
mother, Wanda Cummings; four sisters, LaWanda Webb, Mary Jenkins,
Gloria Sexton, Patricia Edwards; one brother, Johnny Johnson; many
grandchildren, nieces and nephews; and his girlfriend, Wanda Drake.
He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Johnson, infant
brother, Billy Ray Johnson, and one son, Steven Johnson.
Tommy had a big heart. He would help anyone.
At his request, no services were held. Cremation has take
place.
|
Joann Louise LaVanway,
73, of Hartford passed away on Thursday, April 19, 2012, at her
home.
Joann was born Feb. 16, 1939, in Lawrence, the daughter of William
and Louise (Campbell) Tikal, both of whom preceded her in passing.
Joann was a
1957
graduate of Hartford High School and was employed by the
Hartford Public Schools as a head cook for many years. She was
united in marriage to LaVon “Spike” LaVanway on March 8, 1958, and
he survives. Joann enjoyed the precious time she spent with her
children, Stacy (Don) Sage of Watervliet and Todd LaVanway of
Lawrence. She was often seen watching her grandchildren, Nicholas
LaVanway, Chelsea Sage and Treven Sage, at their sporting events.
The neighbors would always see her walking her beloved dogs, Bella
and Maddie. The family camping trips were very special times,
especially when they would travel to the Smoky Mountains of
Tennessee.
As to Joann’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a memorial
service will be held at 4 p.m. on Friday, April 27, 2012, at the
Hartford United Methodist Church, of which she was a member.
Reverend Jeffrey Williams and Chaplain Johnny Groda will officiate.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorials in
Joann’s name be made to the humane society of your choice. The
family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford with the
arrangements.
|
Brian
Joseph Maurig, Sr., age 76
of Paw Paw, passed away suddenly Wednesday evening, April 11, 2012
at his home.
Brian was born March 17, 1936 in South Haven, MI the
son of the late Joseph A. and Eunice C. (Beatty) Maurig. He was
employed at Kalamazoo Valley Community College as a computer
specialist until his retirement in 2005. He was a member of the S.W.
Michigan Council for Tourism, and the Hartford Alumni Board. He had
many friends, was a practical joker who had a great sense of humor.
Brian was very mechanical and enjoyed tinkering (Mr. Fixit),
animals, photography, and computers.
On December 8, 1955 in Bangor, Brian was united in
marriage to Phyllis M. Wiles who preceded him in death on January
17, 2006. He was also preceded in death by a grandson, Kenneth
Staunton; 3 brothers, John, David and Tommy Munjoy, and 1 sister,
Sue Ellen Munjoy. Surviving are a son, Brian Maurig, Jr. of Garrett,
IN; 3 daughters, Marian Maurig of Kalamazoo, Connie Maurig of Paw
Paw and Christine (Daniel) Staunton of Lawrence; 8 grandchildren,
Nicole, Brian, Aimee, B.J., Jeff, Stephen, William and Martin; 3
great grandchildren, Lilly, Jackson and Brody; sister, Vickie
Peterson of Kansas City, KS; many nieces and nephews.
There will be no visitation as per his request,
cremation has taken place. A memorial service for family and friends
will be announced at a later date. Memorial contributions may be
made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation or directed to the family.
NOTE: Brian was
a
1954 Hartford High School graduate.
A Celebration of Life for Brian will be held from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00
p.m. on May 19, 2012 at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. An
open house will be held after the Celebration of Life. KVCC is
located one half mile south from I-94 exit 72 at Oshtemo. Use the
cafeteria entrance.
|
Ward W. LaPorte of
Cassopolis died Monday, April 9, 2012, in Bronson Hospital, Battle
Creek, one day before his 87th
birthday.
He was born in Hartford on April 10, 1925, to George and
Carrie (Pearson) LaPorte. He married Dorothy May Edmunds in Dowagiac
on March 13, 1948. He was preceded in death by his parents; one son,
Bruce LaPorte on June 22, 2010; four sisters and four brothers.
Ward proudly served in the U.S. Army as a Military Policeman at
Governor’s Island, New York City. He was a hard worker. He and
his wife owned a farm implement business west of Cassopolis for more
than 16 years. Ward farmed and enjoyed everything about red antique
tractors, including tractor pulling. He participated in the first
Annual Tractor Crossing of the Mackinac Bridge and in the 50-mile
Half Century of Progress Tractor Drive in Rantoul, Ill., with his
son, Bruce, and several nephews. He always talked about his Buicks.
As far as he was concerned, if it didn’t say B-u-i-c-k it wasn’t
worth owning. He is survived by his wife of more than 64
years, Dorothy (Edmunds) LaPorte of Cassopolis; two daughters,
Carrie (Todd) Butler of Paw Paw and Mary (Tim) Brown of Cassopolis;
one son, Douglas LaPorte of Cassopolis; six grandchildren, Nicole
(Travis Hepler) LaPorte of Buchanan, Elizabeth (Clint Wernlund)
LaPorte of Dowagiac, Katie (Will) Hammond of Dowagiac, Joseph
LaPorte of Dowagiac, Shannon Brown of Cassopolis and Kristen Brown
of Cassopolis; four great-grandchildren, Madison Stout, Mason Hepler,
Claire Hammond and Evan Hammond; and one sister-in-law, Jean LaPorte
of Cassopolis, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Family and friends will gather from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, April
12, at Connelly Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, 202 North Broadway
St., Cassopolis. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday at the
funeral home led by his greatniece, Gail Hertsel, and
great-great-nephew, Michael Hertsel. Mr. LaPorte will be laid to
rest in South Wayne Cemetery, Wayne Township, beside his late son,
Bruce LaPorte. The family prefers memorial contributions to
the donor’s choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to
Connelly Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, Cassopolis. Online
condolences may be sent to:
wagnercares.com.
|
Linda
Louise Norden,
65, of Hartford passed away suddenly on Tuesday, April 3, 2012, at
home.
Linda was born July 19, 1946, in Chicago, the daughter of Chester
and Louise (Jackson) Murphey, both of whom preceded her in passing.
Linda graduated from
Hartford High School in 1965, then attended LMC. She worked
at Roses Drug Store, then as a bookkeeper at the former First
National Bank in Watervliet and finished her career at the Van Buren
County Health Department.
She was active in the Hartford Federated Church, serving as the
financial secretary for 20 years. She was also involved in the
church’s Awana program and served on the decorating committee.
Linda will not only be missed by her husband, David Norden,
whom she married on Sept. 10, 1966, but also by their children,
Kellie (Tim) Hakken of Grand Junction and Kyle (Kelsey) Norden of
Hartford and her grandchildren, Dylan and Troy Vance and Kollen
Norden. Linda is also survived by a brother,
Richard (Carol) Murphey
of Cadillac; her mother-in-law, Helen Norden of Hartford; many
nieces, nephews, other family members, her loving church family and
many friends.
The family will welcome friends from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday,
April 7, at the Hartford Federated Church, where at 4 p.m. the
service to honor Linda’s memory will take place. Pastor David
Gilbert will serve as officiant. As per Linda’s wishes, cremation
will follow the service. The family requests memorial donations be
made to the Hartford Federated Church or Visiting Nurses. The family
has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the
arrangement process.
|
Holly
Lynn Alburtus Owens, 39, of
Lawrence died Friday, March 30, 2012, at Oakwood Annapolis Hospital
in Wayne, Mich.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 10, at
the Paw Paw Seventh-day Adventist Church, with a luncheon
immediately following. Burial will be at 3 p.m. in Hill Cemetery,
Lawrence. Friends are invited to visit with the family from 6 to 9
p.m. Monday, April 9, at the church. Online messages may be left at
www.allredfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial
contributions may be made to her parents to help defray expenses.
Holly was born Nov. 15, 1972, in Paw Paw, the daughter of
Patton and Joyce (Haney) Alburtus. She held the honor of being
chosen Miss Lawrence 1990, and she graduated with the Class of 1991
from Lawrence High School. As a licensed beautician she had operated
her own salon in Paw Paw, “Holly’s Hairitage House.” She later was
regional sales manager for Momentum Payment Systems, and currently
was general manager of
Arrowhead Bar and Grill in Hartford. Holly’s leisure
enjoyments included time spent with her family in boating and
swimming, cooking and barbecuing, and she took pride in keeping her
yard and garden.
Survivors include her three children, Cody, Cory and Carli; her
parents, Pat and Joyce Alburtus; and her brother, Fred (Deb)
Alburtus, all of Lawrence. Many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends
will remember Holly for the special way she had of lighting up their
lives with her warmth and her beautiful smile.
|
Vivian
June Watt Kasischke,
85, of Bridgman passed away on Friday, March 30, 2012, at Jordan’s
Life Care Center, Bridgman surrounded by her loving family.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11 a.m.
Thursday, April 5, at Starks & Menchinger Funeral Home, 2650 Niles
Road, St. Joseph, with Pastors Kyle and Lindsay Small of the Harbert
Community Church officiating. Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m.
Wednesday at the funeral home. She will be buried at North Shore
Memory Gardens, Coloma. Memorials may be made to the Jameson Gargano
Fund at Berrien Community Foundation, Hospice at Home, or the
activities department at Jordan’s Life Care Center. Friends may send
a condolence to the guest book at www.starks-menchinger. com.
Vivian was born on June 13, 1926, in Hartford to Carl
E. and Mabel D. (Kittell) Phillips. She first married Harry “Duke”
Watt, who preceded her in death, and later married Edward P.
Kasischke on April 18, 1987. Vivian worked at Whirlpool for 21
years. June enjoyed golfing, bowling, and especially her family and
friends.
Vivian is survived by her daughter, Nancy (Charles)
Gargano of Stevensville; stepson, Paul (Marilyn) Watt of St. Joseph;
stepdaughter, Laura (Bill) Abernethy of Chelsea, Mich.;
grandchildren, Joel Gargano, Jill Elder, Jack Abernethy, Kima Watt,
Paul Watt Jr., Shawn Unruh, Marcee Schplapak; 12
great-grandchildren; two great-greatgrandchildren; two sisters,
Raina (Sperbeck) Witkowski of Stevensville, Margie Lange of Berrien
Springs and brother, Richard (Ruth) Phillips of Virginia Beach, Va.;
and sister-in-law, Barbara Phillips of Stevensville.
Vivian was preceded in death by her parents, first
husband, Duke, second husband, Ed, a grandson, Jameson Gargano, and
brother, Donald Phillips.
|
Joan
June Tanner, 69, of Hartford passed away
peacefully on Wednesday, March 28, 2012.
Joan was born on June 26, 1942, in Chicago, Ill., the daughter of
Joseph and Anne (Pradon) Pleyer.
Joan is survived by her husband, Jerry; a son, Troy Nevins; and
a daughter, Nicole (Gary) Birkhead, all from Hartford; stepsons,
Donnie Tanner and Josh Tanner; grandchildren, Drake and Josie
Nevins, Luke, Cole and Ryder Birkhead, Noah and Chloe Tanner,
Nathaniel, James and Jacob Tanner, Heather and Dylan Tanner, Kyle,
Jake and C.J. Milliken. She is also survived by nine siblings:
brothers, Ronald (Judy) Pleyer, of Lowell, Ind., James (Marilyn)
Pleyer of Watervliet, Wayne (Linda) Pleyer of Lawrence, and Bruce
Pleyer and Paul Pleyer, both of Hartford; sisters, Diane Pleyer,
Christine Lawson and Darlene (Al) Giganti, all of Watervliet, and
Kathy (Robert) Sinclair of Hartford.
She was preceded in death by her parents, a stepson, Ric
Tanner, and brother-in-law, David Lawson.
Joan enjoyed her winter visits to Florida, annual Baldwin
camping reunions and being with her special friends and family. She
will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, April
2, 2012, at Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford. The service to honor
Joan’s memory will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, April 3, at the
funeral home. Pastor Shannon Truelove of Full Gospel Assembly Church
of Hartford will officiate. Joan will be laid to rest in Maple Hill
Cemetery, Hartford.
|
Tom
Rider,
Galien. Tom’s life began Aug. 12, 1960, in St. Joseph, the son of
Jim Rider and Vada (Wheeler) Keesler. He was the owner of Tom Rider
Heating and Cooling in Galien.
His loving family includes his mother, Vada (Harold) Keesler of
Dowagiac; sons, Justin and Jason Rider of Coloma; brother, Tim Rider
of Kalamazoo; companion, Jeannine Daniel of Galien and her children,
Travis and Russell Kittleson and Lucas and Trenton Prentice;
grandchildren, Alexander and Lucian Kittleson; two stepbrothers,
Michael and Kenny Keesler; and former wife, Jan Rider of Coloma.
Tom passed away as a result of a motor vehicle accident on
Tuesday, March 20, 2012, near Galien. He was preceded in death by
his father.
A private family gathering will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions in his name, may be directed to St. Jude’s
Children’s Hospital. Yazel & Clark Chapel, Dowagiac is serving the
family. Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of Tom at
www.yazel-clark.com.
In memory of Thomas Ray Rider a memorial
gathering will be held from 2 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, April 14, at
the Hartford American Legion, off Red Arrow Highway in Hartford
MI. A light luncheon will be served.
Tom passed away March 20, 2012. Memorial contributions
in his name may be directed to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital,
care of Yazel & Clark Chapel, Dowagiac.
NOTE: Tom was a 1978
Hartford High School graduate.
|
Lola Mae Barr,
67, of Hartford passed away Tuesday afternoon, March 20, 2012, at
Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph. The Davidson Chapel
of Florin Funeral Service, Coloma, has been entrusted with the
arrangements. Burial will be private. Messages of condolence may be
sent to www.florin.net.
Lola was born on Jan. 4, 1944, in Trumann, Ark., to Dill and
Elsie Hammons. She enjoyed going to the casino, was an avid Bingo
player, and enjoyed playing cards – particularly the game “Phase
10.” Lola also enjoyed going to yard sales. She had a heart of gold
and would do anything for anybody, and she never met a stranger.
Most of all, Lola will be remembered for her love of family and
particularly enjoyed family gatherings. Lola appreciated Roy Nichols
for all his help and guidance.
Lola is survived by her children, Tony Bailey of Springdale,
Ark., Robert Bailey of Arcadia, Fla., Melissa Jackson of
Springdale, Sherry Coburn of Hartford, Darren (Julie) Bailey of
Monticello, Ark., Mary (Roy Nichols) Bailey of Covington, Ga., and
Kimberly Bailey of Paw Paw; grandchildren, Jennifer, Terry, Cody,
Sabrina, Jonathan, Misty, April, Rebecca, Amber, Vachary and Dustin;
one greatgrandchild, Kardee; her siblings, Shirley (Jewell) Mann of
Hartford, Danny (Judy) Hammons of Bangor, Troy (Estell) Hammons of
Watervliet, Reba Daisy of Watervliet, and Bob (Diane) Wayne of
California, Bobbie Mills of Tennessee, John Hammons of South Bend,
Ind., and Noma Kring of Michigan City, Ind.; and by her best friend,
Jackie Cardwell.
In addition to her parents, Lola was preceded in death by her
sisters, Janice, Helen and Martha; and by her brother, Bobby.
|
 Kenneth Lowe, 52,
of Mattawan passed away Saturday, March 10, 2012.
Kenny was born May 24, 1959, in Watervliet, the son of the late
Earnie and Verna (Blackburn) Lowe. Kenny has worked for Pepsi for
the last 15 years. He was truly a family man and loved spending
every spare moment with his wife and kids.
In May 1989, Kenny married his loving wife, Lisa (Strefling),
who survives. Also surviving are four children, Meg, Michael, Molly
and Maggie; four siblings, Randy (Jill) Lowe, Tom (Nita) Lowe,
Valerie (Marvin) Lowe and Sherry (Mark) Miller; mother-in-law and
father-in-law, Don and Barb Strefling.
Kenny was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Lowe. Family
received friends from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday at the Adams Funeral Home,
Paw Paw. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. today at the Lawrence
United Methodist Church. Interment will follow in Hill Cemetery,
Lawrence. Arrangements are by the Adams Funeral Home, Paw Paw. Share
a memory or condolence online at www.adamspawpaw.com.
NOTE: Ken was a 1977
Hartford High School graduate.
|
Myrtle
Mae Damaske
- passed away Friday,
March 10, 2012. Myrtle was born June 10, 1922 in Hartford, MI.
Myrtle and her late husband Richard served as missionaries in
Bolivia, South America amongst the Ayore’ Indians for 5 years.
Myrtle graduated from South Western Michigan College where she
earned her LPN certificate and worked for a number of years as a
licensed LPN. She was involved in the local political parties for
many years, assisted with Sunday School and youth ministry programs
and loved spending time with her family and friends.
She is survived by 5 children, Linda (Barney) McVey of
Sanford FL, Martha Damaske Snearly M.D. of Broad View Heights OH,
Pearl (Randy) Bouwens of Wayland, David (Judy) Lima OH, Robert
(Karen) of Climax; 11 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; 2
sister-in-laws, Edna and Beatrice Kimmel, several nieces and
nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband Richard, a
son-in-law Roland Glenn Snearly, M.D., a grandson Randall, and 3
brothers. The family will meet friends on Tuesday, March 13th from
6-8 PM at the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home,
www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com. Funeral services will take place
Wednesday, March 14th, 11 AM at East Arlington Baptist Church, 40040
48th Street Lawrence, MI. Interment will follow in Arlington Hill
Cemetery, Bangor MI.
|
Frank Groth,
75, of Coloma passed away Thursday, March 8, 2012, at Borgess
Medical Center in Kalamazoo.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday ,
March 13, during National Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Week, at
Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph, with Deacon
Michael Gallagher officiating. Burial will follow in Coloma
Cemetery, with military rites conducted by the North Berrien
Military Rites Team. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to
the National Multiple Sclerosis Society – Michigan Chapter. Those
wishing to sign Frank’s Memory Book online may do so at
www.starks-menchinger.com.
Frank was born Jan. 20, 1937, in Bangor to Wheeler and Rose (Pikal)
Dibble. He graduated from
Hartford High School [class
of 1955] and
enlisted in the U.S. Army, stationed at White Sands Missile
Range, New Mexico. On Sept. 30, 1961, he married Lydia Sarabia of
Las Cruces, N.M. After discharge they returned to Michigan, where
Frank worked as an electrician at Modern Plastics, Dynac, Gast
Manufacturing and Whirlpool Corp. until he was diagnosed with
multiple sclerosis in 1971.
Frank is survived by his wife, Lydia; three daughters – Deborah
(Tim) Johnson and Marianne (Ray Cox) Groth of St. Joseph and Stacy
(Matt) Renner of Washington, D.C.; his granddaughter, Kiri Groth of
St. Joseph; his aunt, Frances Pikal of Bangor, who was his loving
and faithful caregiver in the latter years of his illness; brothers
– Ron (Jackie) Groth of Dowagiac, William (Lisa) Dibble of San
Diego, and Fred Hampton of Lauderhill, Fla.; sisters – Carole
Butterfield of San Antonio, Lori (Mike) Enders of Benton Harbor and
Roberta Dibble of San Diego; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews;
and his faithful caregivers, Josie Davis and Fannea Levora.
He was preceded in death by his father and stepmother, Wheeler
and Jewel Dibble; his mother, Rose Groth; his stepfather and
stepmother, Alfred and Lillian (Hampton) Groth; and his uncle and
aunt, Bernard and Lillian Allen.
Frank enjoyed bowling and hunting and was able to fix or repair
just about anything around the house or with cars. He enjoyed
driving as his daughters can undoubtedly remember the long, long
Sunday afternoon drives when they were growing up. Frank managed to
maintain a good outlook on life even after his illness left him a
quadriplegic and dependent on others for his care. He maintained a
great sense of humor and always enjoyed a joke or funny story. He
will be missed, but now he is in the House of the Lord where once
again he is whole and healthy.
|
Fred Reinhardt -
BANGOR — Fred was born on March 1, 1923,
and raised on farms in the South Haven area. He married Helen Zwar
on Dec. 6, 1940. After living in several places they bought a farm
in Toquin (Hartford), where they lived until 1951. In 1950 they
bought their present farm, where they raised their six children,
animals and crops. Fred really enjoyed farming. He worked at Auto
Specialties in Hartford in the late 1940s and early 1950s. He
enjoyed hunting and fishing all of his life, and in his “mature”
years restored old tractors and engines that he took to the Hartford
Old Engine and Tractor Show. He was a longtime member of that club
and the Bangor Church of Christ, where he was baptized. What Fred
really loved was his family, especially Helen. He liked telling
people about how long they had been married. Fred actively farmed
until about 10 years ago. At one time he also built and remodeled
houses in the Bangor area. Fred also liked making fine furniture. In
his latter years one of Fred’s pleasures in life was watching, with
Helen, deer and turkeys on their property. Fred also enjoyed his
many friends.
He is survived by his wife, Helen; five children, Lee (Luanne),
Candis (Bill) Yankovich, Chris (Rick) Jarvis, Billie (Randy) Pitcher
and Tom; 14 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and a sister,
Marion Hoffman.
He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, a son,
Fred Edward Jr., and a grandson, Timothy Collins.
The family will meet friends on Sunday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the
Bangor Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home,
www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com. Funeral services will be held Monday at
11 a.m. at the Bangor Church of Christ. Interment will follow in
Arlington Hill Cemetery. The family suggests memorial contributions
to either the Bangor Church of Christ or the Covert Congregational
Church.
|
Wilma
Edith Weston, 90, of Lawton, formerly of Kentwood, Mich.,
passed away on Tuesday, March 6, 2012, at White Oaks Assisted Living
in Lawton with her family by her side.
Wilma was born March 18, 1921 in Hartford, the daughter of
Leland and Edith (Merrill) Davis, who preceded her in passing. She
was also preceded in passing by her husband, Ronald, in 1983.
Wilma is survived by her children, Suzanne Weston of Lawton,
Carol and David Ross of Wyoming, Mich., and Mike and Kathy Weston of
LaPorte, Ind.; her grandchildren, Brenda Atkinson, Todd (Tammy)
Warn, Melanie Ross, Dana (Randy) Norton, Marcae Ross, Neil Weston,
Carin Weston; six great-grandchildren; one brother, Roy (Marion)
Davis of Hartford, and many special nieces, nephews, and friends.
Wilma and Ron owned and operated Weston Greenhouse in Grand
Rapids for many years. Sunday pizza nights with her family were
special times. Wilma enjoyed many winters in Florida with family and
friends. Her favorite pastimes were to comb the beaches of Sanibel
and Captiva in search of shells and to dig for fossils in the
quarries of Florida. She was also an avid reader.
The family will receive friends from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, March
11, at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford. A celebration of life
service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, March 12, at Hartford
United Methodist Church, with Pastor Jeffrey Williams officiating.
Wilma will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery in Hartford. Those
wishing to make a memorial in Wilma’s name may do so to Hospice of
Southwest Michigan.
NOTE: Wilma was a
1938
Hartford High School graduate.
|
Donna Marie Thiel,
74, of Allegan passed away peacefully at Allegan County Medical Care
Community on March 2, 2012.
She was born in Bryan, Ohio, April 23, 1937, to Melvin and Ruth
(May) Thiel. A graduate of Florence-Edon High School and Hillsdale
College, she taught
elementary school in Hartford from 1969 to 1994. She will be
remembered for her sense of humor, her generous spirit and her love
of music.
Donna is survived by her sister, Doris of Reading; her
sisters-in-law, Lois Thiel of Wharton, Ohio, and Susan Thiel of
Allegan; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by
two brothers, Gene Melvin Thiel and Jackie Hugh Thiel.
At her request, her body was donated to University of Michigan
for medical research on multiple sclerosis, and there will be no
visitation or services. The family will gather in the spring to
share memories of her life.
Donna truly appreciated the staff at Allegan County Medical
Care Community for the excellent care they gave her for the past 14
years.
Arrangements by Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel,
www.gordenfuneral.com.
|
Delia Elizabeth Thurber,
of Hartford passed away on Saturday, March 3, 2012, at South Haven
Community Hospital.
Delia was born June 17, 1932, in Falmouth, Maine,
the daughter of Henry and Dorothy (Currier) Tuttle, both of whom
preceded her in passing. She was also preceded in passing by her
husband, Robert Donald Thurber, her twin children and eight brothers
and sisters.
When Delia lived in Maine she worked at a local fish
factory. After moving to Michigan she was a homemaker for her
husband and their five sons. She loved the outdoors, especially the
times spent camping with the family. She had what many folks call a
green thumb. She enjoyed reading the Bible and attending church when
she was able to do so.
Her family consists of her five sons, Robert (Vivian)
Thurber, Richard Thurber, Steven Thurber, Wayne (Janice Yanez)
Thurber, all of Hartford, and Dennis Thurber of Coloma. Also
surviving are grandchildren, Robby Thurber, Jennifer Thurber, Ricky
Thurber and Delia Thurber; three great-grandchildren; and two
brothers and two sisters.
As to Delia’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a
private family service was held at the Calvin Funeral Home in
Hartford. Delia’s ashes will be laid to rest in Wayne County
Memorial Gardens next to Robert in Waynesboro, Tenn.
|
Gerald Arthur Fuller,
68, of Hartford passed away
suddenly Friday, Feb. 24, 2012, at his home.
Gerald was born May 5, 1943, in Lawrence, the son of Allie and
Catherine (Davis- Briggs) Fuller, both of whom preceded him in
passing. He was also preceded in passing by a brother, Harold
Fuller, and a sister, Betty Heffington.
Gerald was formerly employed with the Duffy-Mott Corporation of
Hartford, Burnett Farms and Hartford Farm Supply. His greatest love
was family, with whom he enjoyed spending time and the family
gatherings.
Gerald is survived by four siblings, Harry (Elizabeth) Fuller
of Hartford, Jackie (Gary) Heffington of Hartford, Tom (Cathy)
Fuller of Watervliet and David Fuller of Hartford, and numerous
nieces and nephews.
The family will welcome friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday,
Feb. 29, at the Hartford General Baptist Church. The service to
honor his memory will commence at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 1, at the
Hartford General Baptist Church, of which Gerald was a member.
Pastor Steve Bisbee will officiate. Burial will follow in Maple Hill
Cemetery, Hartford. The family requests memorial donations in
Gerald’s name be made to the church.
|
Theresa
C. (Kozlowski) Marsh-Sine, 82, of Hartford went
to be with the Lord on Thursday, Feb. 23, 2012, at Lakeland Regional
Medical Center, St. Joseph. Theresa was born Jan. 23, 1930,
in Chicago, the daughter of Casmir and Stella (Cieszynski)
Kozlowski, both of whom preceded her in passing. She was also
preceded in passing by her husband,
Bert, on April
26, 2004; a great-grandson, Dennis Morales Jr.; five sisters, Carrie
Zawacki, Cecelia Malkowski, Genevieve Hansen, Marion Koziarski and
Elizabeth Bingman; and three brothers, Edward, Jerome and Sylvester
Kozlowski. Theresa loved spending time with her family,
which consists of her children, Charles (Trish) Marsh of Crown
Point, Ind., Edward (Rose) Marsh of Lansing, Ill., Judith (Emil)
Priesol of Crown Point, Karen Bulmer of Hartford, Timothy (Rhonda)
Marsh and Peggy Graziani, both of Crown Point. She also enjoyed her
grandchildren, Daryl Marsh, Kevin Marsh, Jamie Marsh, Ryan (Rachel)
Marsh and Brian (Sharon) Marsh, Rebecca (Dennis) Morales, Jessica
Marsh, Valerie (Justin Petyko) Priesol, Steven (Terri) Priesol,
MaryTherese (Don) Bean, Brianne (Tim) O’Rourke, Greg (Tracy Houart)
Bulmer, Tim Marsh Jr. and Mallory (Luke) Raab; and her
great-grandchildren, Logan Hauser, Emmitt and Leighton Marsh,
Elizabeth and Victoria Morales, Emma and Carter Priesol, Patrick and
Caitlin O’Rourke and Keegan Raab. Theresa retired from
Trinity Hospital in Chicago and in her retirement went to work for
Kellogg Hardware in Hartford. She was a member of the Immaculate
Conception Catholic Church in Hartford and worked many church
funeral luncheons. The family will receive friends from 5 to
8 p.m., with a Rosary at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 26, at the Calvin
Funeral Home, Hartford. Mass of Christian Burial, to honor her
memory, will commence at 10 a.m. Monday, Feb. 27, at the Immaculate
Conception Catholic Church. Father Fabio Garzon will be the
Celebrant. Theresa will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery,
Hartford. The family has requested memorials in Theresa’s name be
made to the church.
|
Roy
Smithley, 74, of
Benton Township went home to be with his Lord on Wednesday, Feb. 22,
2012. He was born Feb. 8, 1938, in Benton Harbor to Melvin and Agnes
(Harreld) Smithley. He was married to Kaye Shimer on Nov. 14, 1959,
at Shaw A.F. Base, Sumter, S.C. Roy is survived by his loving
family, which includes his wife, Kaye; children, Wayne (Kay) of
Reno, Nev., and Jeffrey (Kelly) Smithley of Staples, Minn.; five
grandchildren and six greatgrandchildren, who brought him a lot of
joy. Roy is also survived by his brother, Ronald, and sister, Jane
(Larry) Wetzel, both of Hartford.
He spent 20 years in the Air Force, retiring in February 1975.
He was proud to serve in the Vietnam conflict from 1965-66. He later
was transferred to Elmendorf A.F. Base, Anchorage, Alaska, where he
retired and started a janitorial business. Roy and Kaye remained in
Alaska an additional 23 years and enjoyed the grandeur of the
mountains, moose in the backyard, glaciers and many other amazing
sights over the years. In 1998 they moved back to Michigan to be
closer to family. Roy enjoyed gardening, working in his
workshop, enjoying the many clocks that he collected and working for
10 years on the Chicago markets for Ellis Farms. He
accepted the Lord as his personal savior in 2010 and enjoyed
fellowship with members of Midway Baptist Church in Watervliet and
listening to messages from Senior Pastor Mark Cowell. Church
attendance was the highlight of his Sundays.
Donations may be made to Midway Baptist Church, 7517 Red Arrow
Highway, Watervliet, MI 49098 or Gideons International, P.O. Box
323, St. Joseph, MI 49085. A celebration of his life will
be held at a later date.
NOTE: Roy lived in Hartford
prior to entering the Military. Roy's brother,
James, died
in a car-train accident while still in service. Another brother,
Edward Smithley,
died while serving in the Korean War. |
Jerry
Merle Noble Sr., 73, of
Hartford passed away on Monday, Feb. 20, 2012, at Lakeland Regional
Medical Center, St. Joseph. Jerry was born March 17, 1938,
in Kalamazoo, the son of Carl and Delephine (Postelwaite) Noble,
both of whom preceded him in passing. He was also preceded in
passing by a daughter, Christine, and a brother, Carlin.
Jerry married Betty Branch on Jan. 24, 1958, and she survives, along
with their children, Jerry (Carol) Noble Jr. and Douglas (Connie)
Noble, both of Hartford. They are also survived by five
grandchildren, Jamie, Doug, Christopher, Tiffany and Tabitha; four
great-grandchildren, Chase, Autumn, Julius and Savannah; a brother,
Duane Noble; a sister, Crystal; a halfsister, Sue (Tom) Flick; and
many other family members and close friends who were thought of as
family. Jerry was formerly employed at National Copper,
which was formerly known as Rudy’s and Sunstrand in Dowagiac. He
loved to tinker in the garage with his cars and take long rides.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. today, Feb.
23, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service to honor
Jerry’s memory will commence at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 24, at the
funeral home. Pastor Jack Midkiff of Grace Apostolic Lighthouse of
Decatur will officiate. Jerry will be laid to rest in Prospect Hill
Cemetery, Paw Paw. Those wishing to make a memorial in Jerry’s name
may do so with the family.
|
Frances
Arlene Cade,
91, of Hartford went to be with her Lord on Sunday, Feb. 19, 2012,
at Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation
Community,
South Haven. Frances was born May 17, 1920, in Hartford, the
daughter of Walter S. and Mina Louise (Anderson) Hartman, both of
whom preceded her in passing. She was also preceded in
passing by her husband,
Frederick
on Sept. 16, 2004, a daughter-in-law,
Susan Cade on
March 31, 2010; and five brothers and sisters. Frances and Fred were
married on Oct. 28, 1943. They became owners
of the Shell Gas Station when it was on Red Arrow Highway and the
Sinclair/Arco Station near I-94, both in Hartford. Although
that took much of their time, they still raised four children, David
Cade of Hartford, Cindy Munro of Colorado Springs, Color., Michael
(Janice) Cade of Coloma and Christopher (Lisa) Cade of Glenwood
Springs, Color. In her later years, Frances was able to enjoy her
six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. As to
Frances’ wishes cremation has taken place. The family will receive
friends on Saturday, March 3, at the Hartford Federated Church at 11
a.m. at which time, the memorial service to honor Frances’ memory
will commence, with Pastor David Gilbert officiating. Frances’ ashes
will be placed next to Fred’s at Fort Custer National Cemetery in
Augusta. The family has requested memorials in Frances’ name be made
to Hartford Federated Church. The Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford
has been entrusted with the arrangements.
|
Teresa Kay Johnson
- Teresa’s life began Feb. 21, 1966, in Double Springs, Ala.
When she was a young girl her family moved to Michigan, where she
attended school in Bangor. Teresa enjoyed being a mom to her kids,
spending time with her loved ones and playing bingo and cards.
Her loving family includes her companion, Thomas Ford Moody;
three children, Teresa Sue Clark, Dennis Ray Clark Jr. and Keegan
Thomas Ford Moody; two grandchildren, Landin Ray Christopher Osburn
and Luke James Christopher Osburn; her parents, Velma Louise King
and Billy Carl Johnson; three siblings, Billy Carl Johnson Jr.,
Charlotte “Sis” Johnson and Maria (Tim) Owens; and several nieces
and nephews.
Teresa died Monday, Feb. 13, 2012, at Lakeland Specialty
Hospital in Berrien Center. She was preceded in death by a son,
Dennis Ray Clark Jr., and a sister, Mary Faye Johnson.
Funeral services will be celebrated at 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb.
16, at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet with visitation taking
place one hour prior, from 12 to 1 p.m. Burial will follow in
Fairview Memorial Cemetery, Watervliet.
|
James Joseph Gammon Sr.,
81, of Keeler passed away on Monday, Feb. 6, 2012, at his home.
James was born July 24, 1930, in Perry, Okla., the son of
Joseph and Grace (Myers) Wisell, both of whom preceded him in
passing.
James was a hard worker, which was evident in his working for
numerous area farmers. He was an avid fisherman, spending many
weekends camping with his family at the many area lakes. He also
like hunting, but especially liked looking for mushrooms.
James is survived by his wife, Joyce of Hartford; three
children, James (Wilma) Gammon of Benton Harbor, Beverly Bloomer and
Debbra Everett, both of Keeler; eight grandchildren, Lindsey,
Joseph, Ray, Brittany, Kimberly, Scott, Liz and Chris and 10
greatgrandchildren.
As to James’ wishes, cremation has taken place and there will
be no services. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home in
Hartford with the arrangements.
|
Geraldine Mae
(Conklin) Kowerduck, 91, passed away Friday, Feb. 3,
2012, in Zephyrhills, Fla.
Geri was born Aug. 23, 1920, in Hartford to Roscoe and Waite
(Wheaton) Conklin and lived most of her life in St. Joseph. She
studied nursing but remained at home to take care of her daughters.
Her hobbies included bingo, needlework and reading. Geri
married Walter (Rush) Kowerduck July 3, 1937, together for almost 75
years. They met as teenagers roller skating at their local rink.
Together they operated two businesses, Higman Park Roller Rink and
Robinson’s Marina. Geri was the accountant and party planner.
She had a soft spot in her heart for children of all ages. She
had foster children before the term was known, taking into her home
babies and young girls from the “orphanage” on South State Street
later known as The Link. She instituted a “Ladies Day Out” program
at the local YWCA in the 1950s before opening her own day care,
Little Bo Peep nursery and later helping her daughter start The Toy
Box Child Care Center. She then became known as “Gramma Duck.” She
loved to dance, had made friends wherever she went and will truly be
missed. Geri is survived by her husband, Rush, and four
daughters, Nancy (Jim) Hogerheide of Grand Rapids, Judy (Rick)
Granger of Gladstone, Mich., Shirley Kowerduck of Lansing, Mich.,
and Mary Jane (Bill) of Sebring, Fla. Her “fifth” daughter was Jutta
Rohde, a German exchange student from Braunschweig, Germany. She
leaves behind four grandchildren, Christine, Charlene, Renee and
Steven; three great-grandchildren, Tom, Justin and Alyssa.
She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers and one
sister, Carl, Lester and Harold Conklin and June Wagner and
“adopted” son, Ron Conklin. Her brother, Gerald, expired 15 days
later on Feb. 18, 2012. Services were held in Florida.
Memorial contributions be made to HPH Hospice Foundation, 12107
Majestic Blvd., Hudson, FL 34667-2455. |
Judith M. Stahl,
69, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her children on
Feb. 3, 2012.
She was born on June 6, 1942, in Watervliet, Mich., as the daughter
of Michael and Ruth (Gilbert) Duffy, both of whom preceded her in
death. Judy was married to Kenneth R. Stahl on Nov. 10, 1962, and
widowed on Dec. 23, 1999.
She is survived by her children – Amy (Patrick) Cotter, Jean
Stahl, Andrew (Caroline) Stahl and Lynn (Wayne) Bothe; seven
grandchildren; siblings – Michael (Sue) Duffy, Walter (Jill) Duffy,
Rosemary (Andy) Nuhfer, Barbara (George) Bray and John (Kara) Duffy;
her cousin, Kathy Killeen; sister-in-law, Karen (Stahl) Walker; and
the Buller children.
She was preceded in death by her sister, Joan Duffy; and
favorite aunt, Margery (Gilbert) Killeen.
Judy enjoyed sewing, gardening and bird watching. She was a
faithful and long-time member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church,
leading the adult Bible study group for many years.
Before retirement, Judy enjoyed working in the food service at
Whirlpool Corp. in Benton Harbor.
Adhering to her wishes, cremation has taken place, and a
memorial mass will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the
family requests any memorials go to Hospice at Home, 4025 Health
Park Lane, St. Joseph, MI 49085. Kindly share your thoughts and
memories on the family’s online guestbook at AvinkCremation.com.
NOTE: Judy was a
1960 Hartford High School graduate. |
Kevin Wayne Colter,
50, of Keeler passed away on Thursday, Feb. 2, 2012, at home.
Kevin was born Dec. 3, 1961, in St. Louis, Mo., the son of
Hiram and Anna (Reynolds) Colter, both of whom preceded him in
passing. He was also preceded in passing by a sister, Theresa Colter.
Kevin was formerly employed at Shafer Lake Fruit. He liked to
hunt, fish and have his coffee in the morning while sitting outside
on the deck and watching the birds and all the animals. Kevin loved
all the times he spent with his family and friends and just having a
good time.
Kevin was a loving father, grandfather, brother and uncle to:
his four children, Jody (Mike) Rogers of Watervliet, Irene Colter of
Hartford, and Michael Colter and Steven Colter, both of Keeler; his
five grandchildren; three brothers, David Colter of Keeler, Donald
Colter of Elgin, Ore., and Robert (Debra) Colter of St. Paul, Minn.;
a sister, Linda (Dallas) Watson of Hartford; and his numerous nieces
and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 7 p.m. Monday, Feb.
6, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. As per Kevin’s wishes,
cremation will follow this time of fellowship. In lieu of flowers,
those wishing to make a memorial in Kevin’s name may do so with the
family.
|
Barbara Ann Vermilyer, 67, passed away Monday.
She lived in LaPorte, Indiana for the last 20 years. She was
a laborer in a factory and was a member of Full Gospel Apostolic in
Paw Paw, Michigan.
Survivors include her sons, James Luben of LaPorte, IN, and
Daniel Luben of Westville, IN; her daughter, Jody (Bobby) Wade of
Hartford, Michigan; her step-daughters, Tonya Pennington of LaPorte,
IN, and Tulonna (Stacy) Jones of Delton, Michigan; her sisters,
Marie Hoops of Baytown, TX, and Betty Ash of LaPorte, IN; 13
grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.
She is preceded in death by both parents, Austin and Hallie
Denney, Three brothers, Homer McCall, Joe McCall and James Denney,
and two grandchildren, Jamie Danyell Luben and Michael Gabriel Wade.
Services are 11:00 am Thursday, Feb. 2, 2012 at Full Gospel
Apostolic in Paw Paw, Michigan- 32560 56th Ave. Friends may call
10:00 am – 11:00 am Thursday at Full Gospel Apostolic in Paw Paw,
Michigan.
|
Paul Blake Hopson Sr.,
74, of Hartford passed away on Friday, Jan. 27, 2012, at Lakeland
Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph.
Paul was born Dec. 15, 1937, in Pikeville, Ky., the son of
Willie and Goldie (Bartley) Hopson, both of whom precede him in
passing. He was also preceded in passing by a sister, Myrtle May;
and three brothers – Harold Hopson, Kenneth Hopson and L.D. Hopson.
Paul was formerly employed at the Friday Tractor Co. in
Hartford and Keeler Glasgow in Keeler.
Paul is survived by his four sons – Mikie (Joanne) Norris of
Haleyville, Ala., Rickie Hopson and Paul (Glenda) Hopson, both of
Hartford, and Joseph (Nicole) Hopson; nine grandchildren; 12
great-grandchildren; two sisters, Launa (Don) Woofter of Akron,
Ohio, and Nina Sue Childs of New Ellenton, S.C.; and his special
loving former wife, Sue Hopson of Hartford.
The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan.
29, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service to honor Paul’s
memory will commence at noon Monday, Jan. 30. Pastor Richard Kiser
of Red Arrow General Baptist Church of Benton Harbor will officiate.
Paul will be laid to rest in Keeler Cemetery, Keeler Township. The
family has requested memorials in Paul’s name be made to the family.
|
James
C. Bower, 76, of Watervliet, passed away Wednesday
evening, January 25, 2012 at his home surrounded by his loving
family.
Jim was born July 1, 1935 in Benton Harbor, MI to Sam and Marie
(Peters) Bower. After attending Benton Harbor High School he served
his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War. In his
younger days he farmed. Jim was a tool & die maker by trade and
had been employed with Auto Specialties in Hartford and
General Motors in Kalamazoo before retiring.
Jim was very handy around the house. He enjoyed being outdoors,
whether it was tending his vegetable garden, mowing, or simply doing
yard work. Jim also liked airplanes and visiting the airports and
attending air shows. He will be missed by his family and friends.
Jim is survived by his wife Arlene whom he married in 1957; two
sons, Frank (Donna) Bower of Kalamazoo and Fred Bower of Watervliet;
three daughters, Dixie (Wayne) Gilbert of Queen Creek, AZ, Audrey
(Michael) Heater of Coloma, and Marilyn (Scott) Taylor of
Schoolcraft; two brothers, Jake (Dolores) Bower of Monett, MO and
Charles Bower of Climix, MI; a sister Mary Lotsbaich of Buchanan;
ten grandchildren, one great grandchild and a son-in-law Tom Morlock.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his daughter Virginia
Morlock in 2000, a brother Sam Bower and his sister Marie Polstin.
Visitation will be held Monday from 4-7 p.m. with a Memorial
Service beginning at 7 p.m. at Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral
Home in Coloma. Cremation has taken place. Those wishing to share a
memory or leave a message for the family may do so at
http://www.duffieldpastrick.com.
Memorial donations may be made to Hospice at Home or Berrien
County Cancer Service. |

Michael Ray Blanshan, 54 of Hartford passed away Monday,
January 23 at his residence. He was born January 25, 1957 in Benton
Harbor MI.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held by
the family at a later date.
Survivors include his daughter Michelle Congdon of Jonesboro,
Arkansas; two step daughters Pamela Tatro of Watervliet and Cynthia
Tatro of Covert. Also surviving is his brother Joseph Craft of
Kalamazoo, sister Katherine Michelle Jones of Eau Claire, six
grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and his girlfriend Susan Coe
of Leonidis, Michigan. |
Stephen R. Deckard,
after a hard fought battle with cancer, passed away peacefully at
his rural Lawrence home January 17, 2012.
He leaves his wife Nicole (Wiler) Deckard, son Ryan Deckard,
daughters Darcy Deckard and Courtney Deckard all of Lawrence, mother
and stepfather Jean and Dan Burlingham of Bangor, brother Gary “Joe”
(Becky) Deckard and sisters Katrina Johnson and Felicia Scott all of
Hartford, stepbrother Daniel Burlingham III of Hartford, and
stepsister Shawntelle Adler of Las Vegas NV.
His father Charles R Deckard and a brother Charles
“Tim” Deckard proceeded him in death.
Steve was a
1980 graduate of Hartford High School. He was an avid sports
fan and was active in Hartford sports. He had many interest which
included anything about nature, birds, plants and hunting. An avid
reader his taste were varied, but he was fascinated with the
complexity of Stephen King novels.
Steve's life journey started June 27, 1962 at his rural
Hartford home were he lived at the family farm. He was a particular
favorite of his Grandfather George Deckard from whom he inherited
his sense of humor. Steve's path was some times rough and narrow
with a lot of twists and hard to follow, but he came to realize that
some parts of the road were better lighted and easier to follow. As
he followed this road he found guidance at the Freshwater Community
Church, where he became a member. Appropriately, on Easter Sunday
2011, Steve was baptized. Ironically, after starting his new
journey, he was diagnosed with cancer which ended his life with us.
His suffering was eased by many family and friends, he was guided
and supported by Pastor Jason Bull.
Services in Steve's memory will be at the Calvin
Funeral home in Hartford, January 21, 2012 at noon. Visitation will
be Friday the 20th, from 6 until 8:00 pm at the funeral
home. A luncheon in his honor will follow the service at the
Hartford Methodist Church. Please attend and share his memory.
|
Rodney Edward Sloane,
79, of Bangor, Mich., died on January 14, 2012, at home. He was born
on Jan. 19,1932, to Charles and Ruth (Stiff) Sloane in Chicago, Ill.
Rod worked as an engineer for many years.
Rod served his country in the U.S. Navy. He attended St.
Basil Catholic Church in South Haven.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, John
Sloane.
Rod is survived by his daughter, Ruth M. Sloane of South Haven;
his sisters, Tonda Fistel of Los Angeles, Theresa Rosenberger of
Wisconsin and Mary (Jeff) Mack of Downers Grove, Ill.; and one
brother, Tony Jacobozzi of Downers Grove.
A funeral service will be on Monday, Jan. 23, at 10:30 a.m. at
the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home, with Father Robert Flickinger
officiating. Burial with military honors will take place at Ft.
Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, Mich.
Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online
guest book at www.FilbrandtFFH.com. The family is being helped by
the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven.
NOTE:
Rod
attended Hartford High School for about 2 years and was from the
Class of 1950 and played football for 2 seasons. He was a
close friend of Sam and John Wesaw and participated in many
local Native American functions. (Note about connection to
Hartford was from Larry Blyly HHS 1946.) |
Dennis Eugene Sheppard,
71,
passed away on Saturday [January 14, 202] at Lakeland
Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph.
He was born in Benton Harbor, lived in Florida for 15 years,
and had lived in the Hartford area for 5 years.
He is survived by son, Herb (Cindy) Sheppard of Decatur;
sisters, Sonya, Rosetta and Lyndall; 3 grandchildren and 2
great-grandchildren.
No services will be held.
|
Keriann
Danielle Robertson, 35, of Hartford passed away
unexpectedly Friday, Jan 13, 2012, at Lakeland Community Hospital,
Watervliet.
A service celebrating her life will be held at 11 a.m. Friday,
Jan 20, at Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home in Coloma where
visitation will be Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. Cremation will take
place following the service. Donations in memory of Keriann may be
made to the family to further the education of Alivea and Taiya.
Those wishing to leave an online message of comfort for the family
may do so at www.duffieldpastrick.com.
Keriann was born May 7, 1976, in St. Joseph to Gary and Karen (Cripe)
Robertson. She was currently employed by Michigan Gas Utilities. She
enjoyed playing softball, riding motorcycles, four-wheeling, and
going off-roading. Keriann was a wonderful person who was loved by
everyone and will sadly be missed by all that knew her.
Survivors include her daughter, Alivea Kirkwood of Hartford;
mother, Karen Robertson of Watervliet; father, Gary Robertson of
Coloma; grandmother, Wanda Robertson of Watervliet; brother, Tyrone
Robertson of Watervliet; and niece, Taiya Cole of Watervliet. Also
surviving is her fiancé, Gregory Schultz of Hartford, cousins,
Robbie DuMont of Wisconsin, Sarah Dumont of South Haven, and many
other friends and relatives.
|
Phyllis Diane Curtis,
63,
passed away on Wednesday, January 11, 2012 at Lakeland
Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph, Michigan.
Diane was born January 23, 1948 in Benton Harbor, the daughter of
James and Rose (Jinkins) Christopher Sr., both of whom precede her
in passing. She was also preceded in passing by her grandfather,
Loris Jinkins.
Diane formerly worked at the Watervliet Community
Hospital as a dietary manager and retired from the Merriott Hotel in
Benton Harbor as a food manager. On February 17, 1968, Diane married
Larry Curtis, who survives. Diane became a stay at home mother while
raising her five children, Mark (Susie) Curtis of Lawrence, Laura
(Barry) Hall of Kalamazoo, James Curtis of Hartford, John (Kristen)
Curtis and Darrell (Tiffany) Curtis both of Paw Paw. Phyllis loved
her nine grandchildren, Sara, Megan, Logan, Brandi, Arianna, Gemeni,
Kellen, Gibson and Kendra. She also leaves behind five brothers,
James (Betty) Christopher Jr., Ron (Darnell) Christopher, Mike
(Becky) Christopher, Dan (Susie) Christopher and James Butch
Christopher and a sister, Cora (Gary) Igert and numerous nieces and
nephews that loved her dearly.
The family will receive friends from 3 to 5 P.M.;
Sunday, January 15 at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service
to honor her memory will commence at 11 A.M. Monday, January 16.
Pastor Shannon Truelove of the Full Gospel Assembly Church in
Hartford, of which she was a member will officiate. Diane will be
laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. The family has
requested memorials in Diane's name be made to Caretel Inns of
Lakeland in St, Joseph, Michigan or to the American Cancer Society.
|
Beverly M. Friday, 95, Hartford, died Jan. 9 at
Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community, South Haven.
Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, 621-4101.
|
Beverly
Jean Greene, born Sept. 27, 1940, as
Beverly Jean Cheney in Lawrence, lived in Hartford. She passed away
the evening of Jan. 1, 2012, in Long Beach, Calif. She was 71.
Graduating from
Hartford High School [in
1959], Bev later attended Western Michigan University and
Lake Michigan College, graduating with a bachelor of arts degree in
art education. In later years she also completed courses in
astronomy and ceramics at Lake Michigan College, then private pilot
training at Andrews University in Berrien Springs.
Bev married Frederick C. Greene in 1963 at the First
Congregational Church in St. Joseph, where they lived until moving
to Long Beach in 1979. Beverly, spontaneous and creative, enjoyed
taking education and artistic courses and was outgoing and helpful
to friends and acquaintances. In later life Beverly became afflicted
with illness, gradually withdrawing from friends and the outside
world. Still, Beverly remained loving, caring and dear to her
husband of more than 48 years together.
Bev will be missed dearly by the ones left behind.
Please sign the guestbook at www.luybenfamilyd-m.com. Luyben
Family Dilday-Mottell Funeral Home, Long Beach, is serving the
family.
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