January 5, 2000 - No obituaries
January 12, 2000
Joseph Michael Nageldinger
Joseph Michael Nageldinger, 50, of Jackson, died Monday, January 3, 2000, at Foote Hospital in Jackson.
Mr. Nageldinger was born November 10, 1949, in Penn Yan, New York, to James P. and Dorothy J. (Gottshall) Nageldinger. He was a resident of the Calhoun County area since 1950. He was a 1968 graduate of Homer High School and served in the U.S. Marines.
Mr. Nageldinger was a supervisor at Parnall Correction Facility in Jackson for 16 years. He enjoyed softball, hunting, baseball and the outdoors in general. He was a member of the American Legion in Jackson.
Survivors include three sons, Adam, Joshua and Jacob; one daughter, Katie; his mother and stepfather, Dr. and Mrs. Russell (Dorothy) Rowan of Albion; his father and stepmother, James P. (Seu Yean) Nageldinger of Longwood, Florida; his fiancée, Kim Rose of Stockbridge; a brother, James K. Nageldinger of Seattle; two sisters, Mrs. Brian (Kathryn) Warrington of Polson, Montana, and Mrs. Andrew (Annie) McFarlane, of Leland; two stepsisters, Mrs. Russell (Diana) Hrab, of Albion, and Carol Galas, of Royal Oak; and a stepbrother, Chris (Debbi) Rowan, of LeMesa, California.
Funeral services were held Friday, January 7, at St. James Episcopal Church in Albion, with Father Ed Scully officiating. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the Albion Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels.
Memorials are suggested to Big Brothers-Big Sisters of Jackson County.
January 19, 2000
Nancy Kay Cortright
Nancy Kay Cortright, 60, of Homer, died Sunday, January 16, 2000, at her home.
Mrs. Cortright was born November 18, 1939, in Albion, to Carl G. and Marie E. (Holmes) Norton. She married Bill Cortright in Albion, October 18, 1968. He survives.
Mrs. Cortright was a life resident of the area and worked as a supervisor for Michigan Bell for 20 years. For the past 10 years she was with the alternative education program of Homer Community Schools. She was a member of the O.E.S. and the First Presbyterian Church in Homer.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Cortright is survived by a son, Tim (Melissa) Cortright of Battle Creek; a daughter, Mrs. Rob (Lisa) Ridgeway of Homer; four grandchildren, Tyler and Brock Ridgeway of Homer, and Kaitlyn and Abigail Cortright of Battle Creek, her mother, Marie Norton; three sisters, Mrs. Tom (Betsy) Tucker of Marshall, Mrs. Charles (Sharron) Edler of Homer, and Mrs. Scott (Barbara) Anderson of Coldwater; two brothers, William Carl Norton of Norfolk, Virginia, and Jim Norton of Homer.
She was preceded in death by her father, Carl G. Norton, August 15, 1982.
Visitation will be Tuesday from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels. Funeral services will be today (Wednesday) at 3:30 p.m. at the funeral home.
Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions may be made to Good Samaritan Hospice or the Homer Area Community Foundation.
Michael Gerald Smith
Michael Gerald Smith, 41, of Homer, died Monday, January 10, 2000, in Battle Creek Health Systems.
Mr. Smith was born June 2, 1958, in Battle Creek, to Richard and Mary Louise Smith. He attended East Grand Rapids High School. After enlisting in the Army in 1975, he served at several stations in the U.S. and overseas, including Germany and Turkey. He participated in Desert Storm in 1990-91, and then retired from the Army in June of 1995. He was employed by Rennco Inc., of Homer.
Mr. Smith married Kimberly Jean Lyon January 7, 1995, at St. Luke's United Methodist Church in El Paso, Texas. She survives.
Mr. Smith was a member of the Homer United Methodist Church and the Homer Lions Club. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and playing softball.
In addition to his wife, survivors include his mother, Mary Louise Hartle of Homer; two brothers, William Smith of Jenison and Richard Smith of Grand Rapids; and three sisters, Theresa Birtalan of Traverse City, Rose Lemmink of Stanwood, and Beth Hartle of Omaha, Nebraska.
He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Lloyd Smith.
Funeral services were Thursday, January 13, at the Homer United Methodist Church, with the Rev. George Luciani officiating. Burial was in Memory Gardens, Valley City, North Dakota.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels.
Kaylee Paige Reynolds-Brown
Kaylee Paige Reynolds-Brown, infant daughter of Eddie Brown and Jennovee Reynolds, of Homer, was stillborn Monday, January 10, 2000, at University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor.
In addition to her parents, she is survived by grandparents, Harley and Faye Reynolds of Homer, John and Sally Brown of Homer, and Karen Brown of Springport; great-grandparents, Boyd and Hazel Fugate of Kentucky, Glen and Shirley Murphy of Indiana and Nannie Brown of Kentucky, and several aunts and uncles.
Funeral services were held Friday, January 14, at Riverside Baptist Church in Homer with Pastor Danny McCurry officiating. Interment was in Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.
Thoburn Duane Hunsicker
Thoburn Duane Hunsicker, 87, of Marshall, died Thursday, January 13, 2000, at his home.
Mr. Hunsicker was born September 21, 1912, in McGuffy, Ohio, to Floyd and Ruby (Sinift) Hunsicker. Her married Beatrice Fickle in 1932 in McGuffy. She preceded him in death in November of 1986.
Mr. Hunsicker is formerly of Tekonsha, moving to Marshall in 1994. He retired in 1978 from the mat department of Ronan-Kunzel after 20 years. He was a member and former trustee of First Baptist Church in Tekonsha. He was a former member of the Marshall Moose and a member of the International Association of Machinists and Aero Space Workers. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, baseball, football and he loved farming.
Survivors include a son, Lamar (Elaine) Hunsicker of Ceresco; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; a special friend, Esther Keller of Marshall; and a brother, Jack Hunsicker of California.
He was preceded in death by two sons, Ronald Hunsicker and Duane Hunsicker (1994); and a brother, James Ronald Hunsicker.
Funeral services were Monday, January 17, at First Baptist Church in Tekonsha, with the Rev. James Berger officiating. Burial was in Riverside Cemetery in Tekonsha.
The Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels handled the arrangements.
Memorials may be made to the Deacon's Fund at First Baptist Church in Tekonsha.
January 26, 2000
Betty L. Smith
Betty L. Smith, 66, of Albion, died Wednesday, January 19, 2000, at her home.
Mrs. Smith was born December 28, 1933, in Darkmount, West Virginia, to Orville and Stella (Smith) Jeffrey. She married Onsby E. "Smitty" Smith February 18, 1952, in Williamston, West Virginia. He preceded her in death March 30, 1993.
Mrs. Smith had lived in Albion since 1977. She was a homemaker and attended the Baptist Church. She loved to dance and play Yahtzee.
Survivors include four sons, Onsby (fiancée Patricia) Smith, Jr. of Albion, Corbett (Thelma) Smith of Albion, Timmie (fiancée Shirley) Smith of Homer, and Carl (fiancée Tina) Smith of Homer; a daughter, Mrs. Anna Ray (fiancé Gene) Smith of Albion; 25 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren; five sisters, Madeline Frances Williams of Indianapolis, Katherine Virginia Ball of Madison, West Virginia, Rosa Mae Holstine of Nellis, West Virginia, Carolyn Jean Mulkey of Homer, and Ida Belle Marchesano, of Homer; two brothers, Robert Edward Jeffrey of Greenview, West Virginia, and Clarence Emerson Jeffrey of Columbus, Ohio.
She was preceded in death by five sisters and five brothers.
Funeral services were held Saturday, January 22, at the Albion Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, with the Rev. Clay Watkins officiating.
Burial was in Albion Memory Gardens.
Cora B. Smeltzer
Cora B. Smeltzer, 71, of Homer, died Saturday, January 22, 2000, at her home. Mrs. Smeltzer was born October 20, 1928, in Gallipolis, Ohio, to Pearly and Tressie (Myers) Edler. She moved to the Homer area in 1948.
She married Paul Smeltzer August 16, 1947. He preceded her in death in 1998.
Mrs. Smeltzer enjoyed attending the Gospel Barn, making quilts, cooking and canning, auto racing and caring for her family.
Survivors include four daughters, Diane Cline of Pana, Illinois, Dorene Love of Molino, Florida, Barbara Smeltzer of Bankers, and Cora Angell of Flushing; one son, Lawrence "Buddy" Smeltzer of Homer; 23 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Paul Smeltzer, Jr. and a brother Charles Edler.
Funeral services were Tuesday, January 25, at Riverside Baptist Church in Homer, with the Rev. Larry Fulton and Pastor Dan McCurry officiating. Burial was in Albion Memory Gardens.
The George White Funeral Home in Litchfield handled the arrangements.
Memorials are suggested to Riverside Baptist Church or Hospice of Jackson County.
Rose Mary Mulkey
Rose Mary Mulkey, 67, of Albion and formerly of Homer, died Friday, January 21, 2000, in Albion.
Mrs. Mulkey was born September 14, 1932, in McGuffy, Ohio, to Floyd and Nellie (Perkins) Cole. She married Vernon Mulkey August 18, 1972, in Partello. He survives.
Mrs. Mulkey lived in Albion the past 10 years. She was a member of the Grace Free Will Baptist Church. She volunteered at the Good Will and Albion Nursing Home. She was a peacemaker, leading onward for the Lord and a great witness. She loved to cook, garden, sing gospel music, and she collected dolls and teddy bears.
In addition to her husband, survivors include six children, Daryl Burkwalt of Albion, Diane (Burkwalt) Moore of Albion, Sherry (Lawrence) Jones of Milan, Terry (Carl) Allen of Albion, Roseda (Chad) Gray of Springport, and Kenneth Mulkey of Ionia; three stepchildren, Kay (Charles) Rochester of Eaton Rapids, Pamela Smith of Charlotte and Vernon (Kristen) Mulkey, Jr. of Eaton Rapids; seven grandchildren; seven step-grandchildren; one great-grandson; three brothers, Ralph Cole and John Cole, both of Texas, and Arthur Cole of Coldwater; and five sisters, Grace Love of Ohio, Myrtle Yates of Albion, Tressie Wriet of Georgia, Carolyn Zesoski of Coldwater and Cora Lee Bailey of North Carolina.
She was preceded in death by her parents, a child, Baby Burkwalt, a sister, Kathleen Wallace, a brother, Ollie Clifford Cole and a sister, Wanda Arlene Conley.
There will be a remembrance service today (Wednesday) at 7 p.m. at the Grace Free Will Baptist Church. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. today. Funeral services are at 1 p.m. Thursday, January 27, at the church, with the Rev. Douglas Ritchie officiating. Burial will be in Albion Memory Gardens.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the Albion Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family.
February 2, 2000
Harry E. McCone
Harry E. McCone, 76, of Homer, died Thursday, January 27, 2000, at Foote Hospital in Jackson.
Mr. McCone was born August 31, 1923, in Julesburg, Colorado, to Clarence and Edna Mae (McAdams) McCone. He married Rosetta Louise Miller September 7, 1946, in Homer. She preceded him in death December 20, 1993.
Mr. McCone was a lifelong resident of the area. He was a member of VFW Post #9411 in Homer and was active in the recycling center. His hobbies included drawing, painting and woodworking. He was employed by Service Caster, Reith Riley Construction, Homer Community Schools, Donnie Moore Meat Packing, several area gas stations and Bob Chelf gravel pit.
Survivors include three daughters, Carol Jackson of Homer, Mrs. Denise Taylor of Homer and Mrs. Byron (Sherry) Plato of Jacksonville, Florida; four grandchildren, Tammala Case, Dean Plato, Tracy Wirebaugh and Michael Wirebaugh; one great-granddaughter, Krystal Plunkett; and one brother, Clarence J. McCone.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Yvette.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, February 1, at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, Inc., with the Rev. Larry Fulton officiating.
Burial was in Cook's Prairie Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Gambro Center in Jackson.
Sue Tasker Hurley
Sue Tasker Hurley, 69, of Hammond, Louisiana and a native of Litchfield, died Friday, January 28, 2000, at North Oaks Medical Center.
Survivors include her husband, James Hurley of Hammnod; three daughters, Linda Haskell and Brenda Swafford, both of Hammond, and Twig Bousfield of Houston; one son, Rodney Hurley of Boston; one sister, Donna DuBois of Litchfield; 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Clyde and Elizabeth Juckett Tasker; a brother Ross Tasker, and a grandson.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, February 1, at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, Inc. in Hammond.
Burial was in Gatlin Cemetery.
Leon A. VanPatten
Leon A. VanPatten, 84, of Bowling Green, Kentucky, died Sunday, January 30, 2000, in Bowling Green.
Mr. VanPatten was born December 19, 1915, in Allen, to Harlow and Maude (Rainey) VanPatten. He married Cass Zeigler May 5, 1941. She preceded him in death in 1996.
Mr. VanPatten was an Allen High School graduate and graduated from Michigan State University with an engineering degree. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II in the Philippines and retired from the Army Reserves as a Lt. Colonel.
He owned and operated H. Van Patten Company in Homer and Allen for many years, then sold crop insurance for the federal crop insurance program. He was a long-time resident of Allen, a member of the Allen Methodist Church and a member of the Masonic Lodge. He served on the election board in Allen for many years.
Survivors include a son, Mark (Nancy) VanPatten of Bowling Green; two grandchildren and a great-grandchild.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by a son, David, and a sister Morna White.
Funeral services are Wednesday, February 2, at 11 a.m. at Diedrich-White Funeral Home in Quincy. Interment will be in Allen Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.
February 9, 2000
Pauline C. Riker
Pauline C. Riker, 86, of Litchfield, died Monday, January 31, 2000.
Mrs. Riker was born August 10, 1913, in Butler Township, to Guy and Margaret (Rae) Lake.
She married Zerald T. Riker August 21, 1932. He preceded her in death in 1982.
Mrs. Riker was a graduate of Homer High School. She was a lifelong resident of the area, and a cook at Litchfield schools for many years. She was a member of the WWII Mothers.
Survivors include three daughters, Mrs. James (Merlene) Hanco*ck of Lupton, Mrs. Lynn (Gail) Thompson of Litchfield and Mrs. Bruce (Pamela) Sayer of Comstock Park; one son, Russell (Molly) Riker of Homer; a sister-in-law, Ila Lambright of Litchfield; and several grandchildren, step-grandchildren, great-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by two sisters.
Funeral services were held Saturday, February 5, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating.
Interment was in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
Memorials are suggested to the American Cancer Society.
Rondal Allen
Rondal Allen, 61, of Albion, died Thursday, February 3, 2000, at his home.
Mr. Allen was born April 11, 1938, in Pikeville, Kentucky, to Edgar and Viola Babe (Boyd) Allen. He married Eliza Justice September 5, 1961. She survives.
Mr. Allen lived most of his life in the Albion and Springport areas. He was a farmer and enjoyed fishing, coon hunting and lawn care.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Allen is survived by two daughters, Mrs. John (Carolyn) Eldridge of Albion and Laura Allen and Glen Moore of Potterville; four sons, Terry Allen, Carl (Terry Lynn) Allen, Richard Allen and Judy Rowe, and Jimmy (Paula) Allen, all of Albion; two stepsons, Chester "Eugene" (Joyce) Tackett of Albion and William "Ed" (Zelmaglee) Tackett of Homer; two sisters, Mrs. Frank (Helena) Edmond of Woodhaven and Mrs. Gary (Micky) Thomas of Virginia; three brothers, James (Madge) Allen of Betsy Lane, Kentucky, Vernon (Bonnie) Allen of Albion, and Willard (June) Allen of Circleville, Ohio; 16 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.
Mr. Allen was preceded in death by his parents; a son, George Elmer Allen; and a daughter, Marylin Spencer.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, February 8, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with Pastor Doug Richie officiating. Interment followed at Albion Memory Gardens.
Memorials are suggested to the Grace Free Will Baptist Church in Albion.
Harold E. Young
Harold E. Young, 85, of Homer, died Thursday, February 4, 2000, in Jackson.
Mr. Young was born March 3, 1914, in Bismark, Illinois, to Ross and Lydia Marie (Brown) Young. He married Gertrude Miller September 1, 1940, in Chicago. She survives.
Mr. Young was a resident of Homer since 1943. He owned and operated the IGA grocery store in Homer for many years. He was an active member of the United Methodist Church in Homer and was a member of the Lions Club for more than 50 years. He was a sports enthusiast. He and his many friends enjoyed hunting, fishing, bowling and golfing.
In addition to his wife, survivors include a daughter, Joan (Bob) Vandenburgh of Toledo, Ohio; a son, Gerald (Carol) Young of Clackamas, Oregon; two granddaughters, Angela (Tom) Height of Saline, and Natalie (Trung) Doan of Ann Arbor; and a sister, Peg Kafka of Albion. He was preceded in death by a son, Donald Young.
Funeral services were held Monday, February 7, at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, with the Rev. George Luciani officiating.
Burial was in Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorials are suggested to the Homer United Methodist Church or the Homer Area Community Foundation fund.
February 16, 2000
Charles Frederick Duncan
Charles Frederick Duncan, 49, of Quincy, died Saturday, February 12, 2000, at his home.
Mr. Duncan was born February 5, 1951, in Albion, to Harold and Delores (Riley) Duncan. His father survives in Homer. He married Joann LaRoe May 1, 1971. She also survives.
Mr. Duncan was employed at Dexter Axel Company in Fremont, Indiana.
In addition to his wife and father, Mr. Duncan is survived by a daughter, Cindy Duncan of Albion; a son, Charles F. Duncan II of Stockbridge; three sisters, Sharon Faye LaRoe of Homer, Lavonda Kay Wolfe of Hillsdale, and Tina Marie Avery of Homer; two brothers, Harold F. Duncan of Homer and Edward E. Duncan of Hillsdale; three grandchildren, Shawn and Anthony Duncan, and Kayla Duncan.
Mr. Duncan was preceded in death by his mother.
Funeral services will be held today (Wednesday) at 11 a.m. at the Diedrich-White Funeral Home in Quincy, with the Rev. C. Wayne Prince officiating. Interment will follow at Lakeview Cemetery in Quincy.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Heart Association or the Diabetes Fund.
Brenda Kay Cook
Brenda Kay Cook, 46, of Marshall, died Sunday, February 13, 2000, at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit.
Mrs. Cook was born December 21, 1953, in Albion, to Duane and Julie (Twichell) Gill. They survive. She married Lynn David Cook at the West Eckford Missionary Church February 7, 1971, and he survives.
Mrs. Cook was a graduate of Marshall High School and had been a resident of this area the majority of her life. She had been employed by Dr. Mark Richardson as a medical billing clerk. Prior employment included working for the City of Marshall in the financial office. During the 1980s, she and her husband owned and operated a dairy farm in the Litchfield area.
Mrs. Cook was an active member of the West Eckford Missionary Church. When her daughters were young, she volunteered as a leader for the Hillsdale County 4-H Club and also as a leader for the Brownies. In 1985, she and her husband received the District 2, Outstanding Young Dairy Couple award from the Michigan Milk Producers Association. Her life centered around her family and friends, and she enjoyed calling them to stay in touch.
In addition to her husband and parents, Mrs. Cook is survived by three daughters, Lori (Mike) Collard of Clarkston, Amy (Jaime) Beattie of Marshall and Krista Cook of Marshall; a grandson, Matthew Collard; a brother, Robert D. Gill of Charlotte; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held today (Wednesday) at 11 a.m. at the West Eckford Missionary Church. Interment will follow in West Eckford Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the National Brain Tumor Foundation or the West Eckford Missionary Church.
The Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home in Marshall handled the arrangements.
February 23, 2000
Edgar T. Morris
Edgar T. Morris, 89, of Litchfield, died Thursday, February 17, 2000, at the Hillsdale County Medical Care Facility.
Mr. Morris was born July 4, 1910, in Lenawee County and graduated from Sand Creek High School. He was employed for many years at Addison Products and was a farmer.
Survivors include two sons, Thomas (Mary) Morris of Litchfield, and Ed Morris; and 10 grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife Doris (Wotring), a daughter, a son, a brother and a sister.
Funeral services were held Monday, February 21, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.
Memorials may be made to Hillsdale County Medical Care Facility.
Samuel Neufer
Samuel Neufer, 81, of Albion, died Wednesday, February 16, 2000, at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo.
Mr. Neufer was born January 14, 1919, in Albion, to Samuel E. and Mary (Gettys) Neufer. He married Elizabeth Folk in Ajo, Arizona, December 31, 1942. She survives.
Mr. Neufer was a veteran disabled in World War II, and had been a prisoner of war in Germany. He was a member of the Albion V.F.W. Post #3672, Elks #1798, Moose #406, and a lifetime member of Eagles #1265.
He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his son and nephews, camping, and all outdoor activities, including outdoor cooking and relaxing outdoors on his deck watching the birds and squirrels. Mr. Neufer was an avid game show viewer. He enjoyed his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In addition to his wife of 57 years, Mr. Neufer is survived by two daughters, Sandra Gargans of California and Jane Neufer of Michigan; a son, Scott Neufer of Michigan; three grandchildren, Cristy (David) Fyffe of Michigan, Shawn Neufer of Washington and Nate Neufer of Indiana; two great-grandchildren, Samantha Fyffe and Jason Fyffe; a brother, Hardy (Gert) Neufer of Michigan; a sister, Hazel (Fritz) Feddersen; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Mr. Neufer was preceded in death by four sisters, Arvilla Boyer, Jeanetta Neufer (infant), Elsie Putnam and Lucille Pyle, and five brothers, Richard Neufer, William Neufer, Franklin Holibaugh (infant), Cecil Holibaugh and Harry Blair.
Funeral services were held Monday, February 21, at the Albion Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, with the Rev. James Brazell presiding. Burial followed in Riverside Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Kidney Foundation or the charity of the donor's choice.
James L. (Big Jim) Wildt
James L. (Big Jim) Wildt, 77, of Litchfield, died Saturday, February 19, 2000, at the Arbor Manor Care Center in Spring Arbor.
Mr. Wildt was born February 5, 1923, in Pulaski Township, to Leo and Marion (Bentley) Wildt. He married Valera Sue Melton June 3, 1994, in Hernando, Mississippi. She preceded him in death June 30, 1997.
Mr. Wildt was a 1941 graduate of Litchfield High School. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II as a military police staff sergeant. He was a farmer, carpenter and a maintenance worker for Litchfield Community Schools from 1968 until 1986.
Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Robert (Penny) Jump of Litchfield; two sons, James (Linda Kay) Wildt of Litchfield and Larry (Kathy) Wildt of Ada; a sister, Lois Southfield of Litchfield; a brother Donald (Eleanor) Wildt of Litchfield; and eight grandchildren, Ryan, Renee and Whitney Omo, Kyle, David, Frederick and Christine Wildt, and Nicole Jump.
Funeral services were Monday, February 21, at the Litchfield Congregational Church with the Revs. Mike Murray and Kathy Brown officiating. Interment was in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
The George White Funeral Home of Litchfield handled the funeral arrangements.
Memorials may be made to the Litchfield Congregational Church.
March 1, 2000
Lillie Myrtle Blair
Lillie Myrtle Blair, 81, of Albion, died Wednesday, February 23, 2000, at her home under the care of her family and hospice.
Mrs. Blair was born June 22, 1918, in Ivel, Kentucky, to William and Pearl (Hall) Damron. She married Granis J. Blair in Tram, Kentucky, on September 21, 1938. He preceded her in death in 1990.
Mrs. Blair moved to Michigan in 1940. She was employed for several years at Corning Glass Co. and the Pagoda Restaurant. She was a member of the Southern United Baptist Church, the Albion American Legion Auxiliary, and enjoyed playing bingo, trips to Mt. Pleasant, flower gardening, hand crafts and especially her grandchildren.
Survivors include a son, Billy Blair of Albion; four daughters, Mrs. Joe (Bobbie) Adams of Albion, Mrs. Loretta Neal of Tekonsha, Mrs. Sherwood (Brenda) Tackett of Martin, Tennessee, and Mrs. Alan (Virginia) Wilczak of Albion; a sister, Ruby Timberman of Bradenton, Florida; two brothers, Herbert Damron of Marshall and Don Gibson of Albion; 21 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Lillie Arleen Blair; two sons, Doug and Darrell Blair; three brothers; a sister; and a grandchild.
Funeral services were held Saturday, February 26, at the Grace Free Will Baptist Church in Albion with the Rev. Earl Martin officiating. Interment was in Riverside Cemetery in Albion.
Memorials are suggested to Good Samaritan (Life Span) Hospice.
Aleta M. "Sally" Hyde
Aleta M. "Sally" Hyde, 80, of Homer, died suddenly Saturday, February 26, 2000, at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo.
Mrs. Hyde was born June 14, 1919, in Homer to Lawrence R. and Iva (Hepler) Ralston. She married Max L. Hyde September 29, 1939, in Homer. He preceded her in death July 4, 1993.
Mrs. Hyde was a lifelong resident of the area. She was formerly employed by Union Steel. She was a homemaker and a charter member of VFW Post #9411 - Homer Auxiliary. She worked with Homer Caring and Sharing, was a former Cub Scout leader and enjoyed bowling.
Survivors include a son, Lawrence (Portia) Hyde of Homer; and three grandchildren, Mrs. Casey (Jessica) Hyde-Guehl of Marshall, James Hyde of Homer and Greg Lucyshyn of Homer.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Linda Lucyshyn; a sister, Helen Macky; and two brothers, Lynn and Theron Ralston.
Funeral services were Tuesday, February 29, at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels with the Rev. Donald H. Smith officiating.
Burial was in Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions may be made to the VFW Post #9411 Auxiliary or the Harry and Linda Lucyshyn Scholarship fund.
Marjorie Bain
Marjorie Bain, 84, formerly of Fenton, died Sunday, February 27, 2000, at Arbor Manor Care Center in Spring Arbor.
Mrs. Bain was born May 8, 1914, in Detroit, to Robert and Elsie (McIntyre) Stibbles. She married Albert Bain in March 1, 1941. He preceded her in death in 1998.
Mrs. Bain had been a veterans employment representative for 22 years for the Michigan Employment Securities Commission, retiring in 1979. She was a member of the first graduating class of Detroit's Mackenzie High School in 1932. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Fenton and the Litchfield United Methodist Church. She had also been a Girl Scout leader.
Survivors include two daughters Mrs. Thomas (Marge) Beckner of Litchfield and Mrs. Michael (Kathleen) Roth of Cincinnati, Ohio; and three grandchildren, Mark, Lori and Kristen Beckner.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, February 29, at the Litchfield United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Kathy Brown officiating.
Burial is today (Wednesday) at 2 p.m. at Tyrone Memorial Gardens in Fenton.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.
Memorials are suggested to the Hartland Senior Center or Make-a-Wish Foundation.
Susie H. Taylor
Susie H. Taylor, 95, long-time resident of the Litchfield area, died Saturday, February 26, 2000, at the Odd Fellows & Rebekah Home in Jackson.
Mrs. Taylor was born January 14, 1905, in Crystal, to George and Audrie (Eitner) Kast. She was a member of the Litchfield United Methodist Church and the Litchfield Rebekah Lodge. She was preceded in death by two husbands, George Yeager in 1934 and Ivan Taylor in 1969.
Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Richard (Joyce) Pitts of Litchfield; three sons, Carlisle (Mildred) Yeager of Lady Lake, Florida, George (Judy) Yeager of Citra, Florida, and Kenneth (Elaine) Yeager of Summerfield, Florida; a sister, Iris Boochard of Mecosta; a brother, Marion Kast of Mason; 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husbands, she was preceded in death by a son, Donald Taylor, and a sister, Leona Bennett.
Funeral services will be today (Wednesday) at 11 a.m. at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating.
Burial will follow in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
Memorials are suggested to the Odd Fellows & Rebekah Home in Jackson.
Leona Mae Notestine
Leona Mae Notestine, 95, a lifelong Butler Township resident, died Saturday, February 26, 2000, at her residence.
Mrs. Notestine was born March 12, 1904, in Butler Township to Winfred and Edna (Rossman) Wolf.
She married James R. Notestine September 24, 1927. He preceded her in death in 1969.
She graduated from Quincy High School in 1922 and from Ypsilanti Normal College. She was the owner of Leona's Apparel in Quincy for 27 years. At one time she taught at the Dayburg County School (K-eighth grade). She had also been an employee of Consumers Power in Jackson, Levonne Lingerie Shop in Kalamazoo, and Sears and Roebuck and Crowley Millner & Co. in Detroit.
Mrs. Notestine was past Worthy Matron of the Quincy Chapter #12 OES and a member of the White Shrine, Pythian Sisters, the Quincy American Legion Auxiliary and Farm Bureau. She was also a member of the Quincy United Methodist Church.
Survivors include nieces and nephews, Bill and Gayla Wolfe of Quincy; Barb and Chuck Sigler of Hillsdale and Harry Hudson of Coldwater; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a niece, Beverly Hudson, and a brother, William Adelbert Wolf.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, February 29, at the Diedrich-White Funeral Home in Quincy, with the Rev. Keith Walsworth officiating.
Burial followed in Whig Center Cemetery in Butler Township.
Memorials are suggested to Hospice of Branch County or the American Cancer Society.
Thomas Vernon Clay
Thomas Vernon Clay, 35, of Homer Township, died Sunday, February 27, 2000, at his home.
Mr. Clay was born June 8, 1964, in Albion, to Charles and Caroline (Nyssen) Clay.
He had been employed by Walker Manufacturing Co. and Yukon Industries in Litchfield. He also owned a landscaping business. He enjoyed auto racing as both a participant and TV spectator.
Mr. Clay is survived by his father and stepmother, Charles and Ellen Clay of Homer; two sisters, Cindy Herman of Reading and Sabrina Clay of Homer; three brothers, Chris Nickles of Colon, and Joseph Clay and Charles E. Clay, both of Homer; and two stepbrothers, Shane Girdham and Dustin Girdham, both of Homer.
He was preceded in death by his mother.
Graveside services will be held Thursday at 1 p.m. at Riverside Cemetery, Tekonsha, with Rev. Clay Watkins officiating. There will be no visitation.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice (Life Span).
Arrangements were made by George White Funeral Home, Litchfield.
March 8, 2000
Marvin D. Wade
Marvin D. Wade, 78, of Homer, died Saturday, March 4, 2000, at his home.
Mr. Wade was born January 9, 1922, in Butler Township, to C. Merrill and Florence (King) Wade. He married Dorothy Straw August 24, 1947. She survives.
Mr. Wade was a lifelong resident of the area and a farmer. He was a World War II veteran, serving in the U.S. Navy. He was a member of the Michigan Farm Bureau and Farm Bureau Oil Association, Michigan Milk Producers Association, Dairy Herd Improvement Association, Homer VFW, was a trustee of Butler Township, and was a member of the Country Couples Club and Litchfield Farmers Club.
In addition to his wife, survivors include three daughters, Mrs. Ron (Ann) Peeper of Florida, Mrs. Jerry (Ellen) Brodock of Homer and Mrs. Jeff (Lori) Butler of Homer; two sons, James (Kathy) Wade of Petoskey, and Dean (Marla) Wade of Homer; a brother, Richard (Lois) Wade of Albion, 13 grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, March 7, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield. Interment was in Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorials are suggested to Hospice (Life Span) or the Homer Public Library Building Fund.
March 15, 2000
Norma M. VanWert
Norma M. VanWert, 62, of Jonesville, died Monday, March 6, 2000, at her home.
Mrs. VanWert was born February 17, 1938, in Flint, to Alex and Geraldine (Harris) Sheerer. Her mother survives in Litchfield. She graduated from Litchfield High School in 1957. She married John M. VanWert August 23, 1958. He survives.
Mrs. VanWert enjoyed gardening, needlepoint and bird watching. She especially enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and caring for her pets.
Mrs. VanWert was co-owner of VanWert Photography. She had been an employee of Jonesville Products for more than 25 years and was a co-owner of Tastee Twirl in Litchfield.
In addition to her husband and mother, she is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Larry (Pamela Sue) Carothers, Mrs. Jim (Penny Mae) Sarles, and Mrs. Richard (Patricia Ann) Weston, all of Jonesville; one son, John D. (Teresa) VanWert of Jonesville; two sisters, Carol Fleming of Jackson and Mrs. Duane (Kitty) Bills of Litchfield; two brothers, George (Delores) Sheerer of Litchfield, and Jerry (Ruth) Sheerer of East Leroy; and 15 grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her father; a sister, Joanna Houchen, and a granddaughter.
Funeral services were held Thursday, March 9, at Litchfield United Methodist Church with the Revs. Kathy Brown and Daniel Pann officiating.
Interment followed in Mosherville Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.
Memorials are suggested to Hospice of Hillsdale County or the American Cancer Society.
Gale E. Leece
Gale E. Leece, 82, of Litchfield, died Tuesday, March 7, 2000, at the Community Health Center of Branch County in Coldwater.
Mr. Leece was born October 3, 1917, in Jackson, to Gale A. and Mathilda (Maske) Leece. He married Virginia Berlin June 16, 1940. She survives.
Mr. Leece graduated from East Jackson High School in 1937. He was retired from Simpson Industries, Inc., where he worked for 27 years. He had also been employed at Richard Brothers in Hillsdale.
He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Litchfield.
In addition to his wife, survivors include two sons, Paul Leece of Litchfield and Edward (Linda) Leece of Jonesville; two sisters, Elanor Hammond of Michigan Center and Mrs. Howard (Betty) McManus of Hanover; three grandchildren, Teresa (Jeff) Freese of Holland, Tim (Debra) Leece of Litchfield, and Laurie (Mike) Lehman of Hamilton, Indiana, and two great-granddaughters, Jasmine and Ashleigh Leece.
Mr. Leece was preceded in death by two sisters and a great-granddaughter.
Funeral services were Friday, March 10, at the First Baptist Church, with the Rev. Gerald Spoor officiating. Interment followed at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
The George White Funeral Home in Litchfield handled the funeral arrangements.
Memorials are suggested to the First Baptist Church Growth Fund.
Lou Beth Cortright
Lou Beth Cortright, 42, of Homer, died Friday, March 10, 2000, at her residence.
Mrs. Cortright was born June 17, 1975, in Albion, to Lewis and Elizabeth (Anderson) Rogers. They survive in Homer.
Mrs. Cortright graduated from Homer High School in 1975. She married James Eric Cortright September 8, 1978. He survives.
Mrs. Cortright served as the deputy clerk for the Village of Homer for nine years. She enjoyed refinishing furniture.
In addition to her husband and parents, survivors include a daughter, Erika Beth Cortright at home; her mother-in-law, Louise Beatty, of Arizona; and her father-in-law, William Cortright, of Homer.
She was preceded in death by a sister, Kay Rogers, in 1980.
Funeral services were held Monday, March 13, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Rev. Larry Fulton officiating.
Interment was in Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorials are suggested to Life Span Good Samaritan Hospice.
Linda Winchell
Linda Winchell, 47, of Battle Creek, died Monday, March 13, 2000.
Ms. Winchell was born May 28, 1952, in Albion, to Lyman L. and Rita E. (Charameda) Winchell.
She enjoyed bowling, nature, wildlife, wild animals and her housekeeping.
Ms. Winchell is survived by her father and stepmother, Lyman L. and Judith Winchell of Albion; a brother, Tracy Winchell of Battle Creek; and two sisters, Robin Winchell of Albion and Vicki (Ben) Miles of Marshall.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Rita Winchell, and her lifelong companion, Russell Sanders.
According to the family's wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation or services. There will be a private graveside service at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society.
Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels handled the arrangements.
March 22, 2000
Shirley E. Campbell
Shirley E. Campbell, 65, of Litchfield, died Monday, March 13, 2000, at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo.
Mrs. Campbell was born September 22, 1934, in Butler Township, to Lawrence and Elizabeth (Peters) Listemann. She graduated from Reading High School. She married Floyd H. "Brownie" Campbell in 1985. He preceded her death in November, 1999.
Mrs. Campbell was a homemaker and child care provider.
Survivors include seven daughters, Patricia Cline of Litchfield, Christine (Kevin) Moran of Reading, Janette (Aaron) Staten of Homer, Sarah Pratt of Jonesville, Betty Campbell of Jonesville, Carol (Dave) Neff of Flora, Illinois, and Ferrel Speith of Jonesville; a son, Chuck (Cindy) Campbell of Milan, Tennessee; a sister, Helen Hart of Litchfield; two brothers, Lowell Lambertson of Litchfield and Donald Lambertson of Hillsdale; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Campbell was preceded in death by a son, Larry VanDorn, and a sister, Lucille Heckel.
Funeral services were held Thursday, March 16, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Rev. Larry Fulton officiating. Interment followed at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
Memorials are suggested to the donor's choice.
Rev. William A. Swihart
Rev. William A. Swihart, of Kalamazoo, died Thursday, March 16, 2000.
He was born December 22, 1912, in Three Rivers, to Charles and Alice Swihart. He attended Denver Bible Institute in Colorado to prepare for the ministry. He married Marian H. Luse on June 4, 1936.
Together they ministered to the following churches for 65 years: Packard Gospel Center, now Maple Grove Bible Church in South Haven; Covey Hill Baptist Church; North Adams Baptist Church; Hanover Church; Sycomore Street Bible Church, Jackson; Cook's Prairie Baptist Church, Homer; Bancroft Church; Berrien Center Bible Church; Watson Community Church, Watson Corners; Valley View Bible Church of Kalamazoo; and was chaplain at Friendship Village, Kalamazoo.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years; a son, Philip A. Swihart of Hawaii; three daughters, Miriam (Jay) VanderVelde of White Cloud, Mary (Phillip) Davis of South Haven and Lois Mejeur of White Cloud; 13 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, five brothers and a sister.
He was a blessing to many and will be missed by all who knew him.
Services were held Monday at the Calvary Bible Church with the Rev. Dr. John H. Munro officiating. The Langeland Family Funeral Homes handled the arrangements.
Graveside services were held Monday at Burr Oak Cemetery, Burr Oak.
March 29, 2000
Harriet P. Thomas
Harriet P. Thomas, 84, a long-time resident of the Litchfield area, died Saturday, March 25, 2000, at Tendercare in Marshall.
Mrs. Thomas was born June 15, 1915, in Harlin, Indiana, to H.O. and Mary (Applegate) Leighner. She married Max W. Thomas May 24, 1938, in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He preceded her in death in 1997.
She was retired from Hillsdale County Farm Bureau, where she was a secretary for several years.
Mrs. Thomas was a Cub Scout leader, a Branch County 4-H leader, a member of the Rebekah Lodge in Litchfield, the Litchfield United Methodist Church and the Hillsdale County Farm Bureau.
Survivors include four sons, Harry (Sandra) Thomas of Litchfield, Arthur (Kathy) Thomas of Homer, Douglas (Sharon) Thomas of Tekonsha, and Dewayne Thomas of Litchfield; one sister, Lois (Ralph) Yeager of Cincinnati; one brother, Roy (Nancy) Leighner of Rockford, Ohio; 13 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by two daughters, Donna Ruth and Rebecca Sue; one son, Kenneth; one grandson, Steven; and four brothers, Rufus, Howard, Harold and Ray Leighner.
Funeral services are today, (Wednesday), March 29, at 1 p.m. at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield. Interment will follow in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
Memorials are suggested to Tendercare Activities Fund or the Odd Fellow and Rebekah Home Activities Fund.
Warren Harding Vincent
Warren Harding Vincent, 77, of Lansing, died Thursday, March 23, 2000.
Mr. Harding was born June 13, 1922, in Calhoun County, to Fred and Martha Vincent. He was a 1939 graduate of Homer High School. He attended Michigan State University, Denison University and Iowa State University, where he received a Ph.D.
He spent his entire career, from 1948-1984, with MSU, engaged in teaching farm management. From 1967-1986 he traveled extensively teaching, consulting and doing research in South America, Europe, Africa and Asia.
Mr. Vincent served briefly in World War II in the U.S. Army Air Corps and the Chemical Warfare Service, receiving two bronze stars and attaining the rank of 1st Sergeant.
Mr. Vincent was married twice, first to Betty Helen Grossnickle and then to Toni Domingo in 1980.
Survivors include his children, Steven F. (Linda) Vincent of Atlanta, Georgia, James P. of Sydney, Australia, Jeffrey R.. Vincent of West Lafayette, Indiana, Jill Vincent of Atlanta, Georgia, Peter T. (Robin) Vincent of Mason, and Chad T. (Wendy) Vincent of Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin; three brothers, Harold Vincent of Homer, Russell Vincent of Florida and Robert Vincent of Battle Creek; two sisters, Donna Bowersox and Dorothy Taylor, both of Montana; and 12 grandchildren.
There will be a memorial service Saturday, April 22, at 1 p.m., with interment following in the Memorial Garden of University United Methodist Church in East Lansing.
Gorsline-Runciman Funeral Home of Lansing handled the funeral arrangements.
Memorials may be made to University United Methodist Church or Hospice House of Mid-Michigan.
April 5, 2000
Mabel E. Snellenberger
Mabel E. Snellenberger, 78, of Homer (formerly of Coldwater), died Monday, March 27, 2000, at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo.
Mrs. Snellenberger was born April 3, 1921, in Baldwin, Indiana, to Alonzo and Cora (Wade) Foust. She was retired from Midwest Foundry in Coldwater and had assisted at the coin-operated laundry in Homer for more than five years.
Mrs. Snellenberger loved flowers and gardening, fishing, bird watching and her dog.
Survivors include a daughter, Katrina Leggitt of Homer; three sons, Charles, Jerry and Henry Snellenberger, all of Quincy; three sisters, Irene Warner of Payne, Ohio, Mary Bromigan of Bryan, Ohio, and Esther Dodd of Coldwater; a brother, Lewis Foust of Ft. Wayne, Indiana; 14 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
According to her wishes, cremation has taken place.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.
Shirley J. VanKampen
Shirley J. VanKampen, 70, of Litchfield, died Monday, March 27, 2000, at her home.
Mrs. VanKampen was born August 3, 1929, in Homer Township, to William Frederick and Blanche (Miller) Brenner. She graduated from Litchfield High School in 1946 and attended Spring Arbor College. She was a schoolteacher at Litchfield Community Schools for many years.
She married Raymond D. VanKampen March 20, 1948. He preceded her in death in 1992.
Mrs. VanKampen was a member of the Litchfield First Baptist Church, the Litchfield Garden Club and served as part-time librarian at the Litchfield District Library. She was a former member of the Farmer's Club and was an avid gardener and crafter.
Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Glenn (Gayle) Mathues of Aiken, South Carolina, and Mrs. Timothy (Sarah) Barsuhn of Jackson; one son, Douglas (Barbara) VanKampen of Litchfield; two sisters, Grace Frost of Elmira, New York, and Oletha Kleffner of Portland, Oregon; one brother, Lewis Brenner of Homer; and seven grandchildren, Stephen and Andrea VanKampen; David, Adrienne and Evan Mathues; and Amanda and Adam Barsuhn.
Mrs. VanKampen was preceded in death by two brothers and a sister.
Funeral services were held Friday, March 31, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating.
Interment followed in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
Memorials are suggested to Litchfield First Baptist Church's organ fund, the Litchfield District Library or the Garden Club's high school landscape project.
April 12, 2000
Christopher R. Blankenship
Christopher R. Blankenship, 26, of Hillsdale, died Tuesday, April 4, 2000, at the home of his mother in Homer.
Mr. Blankenship was born August 27, 1973, in Hudson, to Carl and Darlene (Porter) Blankenship. They survive in Homer.
Mr. Blankenship attended North Adams schools and graduated from Hillsdale High School in 1992. He was a resident of the Hillsdale area his entire life.
Mr. Blankenship married Renae Beebe July 1, 1999. She survives.
Also surviving are a daughter, Shannon Blankenship of Pittsford; a stepdaughter, Ashleigh Williams; a stepson, Austin Williams; two sisters, Carla Blankenship of North Adams and Sarah Blankenship of Homer; two brothers, James (Sam) Blankenship of Hudson, and Justin Blankenship of Homer; his grandparents, Donna and Willis Howard of Osseo, and Ben and Darlene Porter of Pittsford; great-grandparents, Donovan and Ruth Bumpus of Osseo and Agnes Porter of Pittsford; and a special aunt and uncle, Robert and Jean Stover of Hudson.
Funeral services were held Friday, April 7, at the VanHorn-Eagle Funeral Home in Hillsdale, with Pastor David Morton officiating. Interment was in East Hill Cemetery in Osseo.
Memorials may be made to the family or Hospice of Hillsdale County.
Ruth "Granny" Nichols
Ruth "Granny" Nichols, 78, of Litchfield, died Thursday, April 6, 2000, at the home of her daughter.
Mrs. Nichols was born October 1, 1921, in Garrett, Kentucky, to Andy and Margaret (Jackson) Hicks. She had been a cook at Kasy's Restaurant in Litchfield for 10 years. She enjoyed playing bingo, quilting and flower gardening.
Survivors include four daughters, Florence Barnett and Rosalee Allen, both of Litchfield, Farline Carothers of Kalamazoo and Janette "Susie" Carothers of Litchfield; six sons, Robert "Bob" Rowe of Mosherville, Willard Rowe of Marion, Indiana, Shannon Rowe of Coldwater, Jerry Rowe of Waterloo, Iowa, Haskell Nichols of Jonesville, and James (Rodney) Nichols of Chesapeake, Virginia; 30 grandchildren; 51 great-grandchildren; six great-great-grandchildren; several step grandchildren and step great-grandchildren; and a special friend, Clare "Phyllis" Iles.
Mrs. Nichols was preceded in death by two husbands, James Rowe in 1949 and Ervin Nichols in 1987; two daughters; one son; and three brothers.
Funeral services were held Monday, April 10, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield. Interment followed in Mount Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
Memorials are suggested to Hospice of Hillsdale County.
April 19, 2000
Erwin Clair Green
Erwin Clair Green, 85, of rural Litchfield, died Wednesday, April 12, 2000, at his home.
Mr. Green was born July 10, 1914, in Lenawee County, to Edwin and Mary Ann (Huyck) Green. He married Helen Ebbert November 5, 1938. She preceded him in death in 1998.
Mr. Green was a farmer and sheep sheerer. He was a former member of the Grange and loved fishing.
Survivors include a daughter, Ella Hamrick of Litchfield; five sons, Clair Green of Litchfield, George (Sue) Green of Hillsdale, James (Brenda) Green of Jonesville, Ralph Green of Hillsdale, and Erwin (Patricia) Green of Homer; four sisters, Hazel Day of Jackson County, Ruth Jennings of Houston, Texas, Ruby Meyers of Titusville, Florida, and Ethel Cooley of Dundee; one brother, Henry Green of Coldwater; 16 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Green was preceded in death by a brother and a grandson.
Funeral services were held Saturday, April 15, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating. Interment followed in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
Memorials are suggested to Oaklawn Hospice of Marshall.
Roland Douglas Bowersox
Roland Douglas Bowersox, 61, of Leonidas, died of injuries received in a motorcycle accident Saturday afternoon, April 15, 2000, in Branch County.
Mr. Bowersox was born October 5, 1938, in Clarendon Township, to Lyle and Charity (Cooper) Bowersox. His parents died at a young age, and their family was raised by his maternal grandparents, John and Zoe Cooper.
He had made his home in Leonidas for the last 24 years, coming from Bronson. Mr. Bowersox graduated from Homer High School with the class of 1957, and served with the U.S. Army. He married Joanne Harvey April 9, 1960, in Colon. She survives.
Early in his life, Mr. Bowersox worked for the former Door Products of Burr Oak for 17 years, and for the last 20 years he worked for General Motors and American Axel & Mauf. Co. of Three Rivers. He was a member of U.A.W.
In addition to his wife Joanne, Mr. Bowersox is survived by a daughter, Tonya (Chad) Hagaman of Sherwood; a son, Mark D. (Julie) Bowersox of Sherwood; three grandchildren, Hayden M. Bowersox, and Austin and Emily Hagaman; two sisters, Catherine (Richard) Coriell of Tekonsha and Marilyn (Frank) Frick of Quincy; a brother, Gary L. (Dorothy) Bowersox of Sturgis; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by two sisters, Helen Bowersox and Lois Bormann.
Funeral services will be held today (Wednesday) at the Schipper Funeral Home, Ltd., Colon, at 2 p.m., with Pastor Thomas G. O'Conner of the St. Joe Baptist Church of Homer officiating. Interment will follow in Leonidas Cemetery, Leonidas. Military honors will be conferred by the Colon American Legion Post 454.
Grace C. Love
Grace C. Love, 64, of Englewood, Ohio, and formerly of Homer, died Saturday, April 15, 2000, at Hospice of Dayton, Dayton, Ohio.
Mrs. Love was born June 1, 1935, in Salyersville, Kentucky, to Floyd and Nellie (Perkins) Cole.
She was a waitress at several area restaurants and had owned and operated the Country Corners Restaurant in Leesburg, Florida. Mrs. Love was a member of the Moose Lodge Auxiliary, and the Englewood Baptist Church. She enjoyed gardening and cooking.
Mrs. Love is survived by two sons, Ron (Cindy) Frederick of Englewood, Ohio, and John (Amanda) Frederick of Homer; four sisters, Myrtle Yates of Albion, Tressy Wierts of Georgia, Caroline Zeskoski of Coldwater and Cora Lee Bailey of Tennessee; three brothers, Ralph Cole and John Cole, both of Texas, and Arthur Cole of Coldwater; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
Mrs. Love was preceded in death by two husbands, Edward B. Frederick and John Love, and by three sisters and a brother.
Funeral services will be held today (Wednesday) at 11 a.m. at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Rev. David Trammell officiating. Interment will follow at Albion Memory Gardens.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Dayton.
April 26, 2000
Robert Keith Rice, Sr.
Robert Keith Rice, Sr., 72, of Litchfield, died Thursday, April 20, 2000, at home.
Mr. Rice was born November 21, 1927, in Northwest Township, Ohio, to Ross O. and Belva (Seely) Rice. He married Hazel I. (Coats) Dickinson January 14, 1989. She survives.
Mr. Rice had been a machinist at Adwest in Hillsdale, as well as several other area shops. He was a WWII Army veteran and enjoyed membership in a motorcycle club. Mr. Rice was an avid hunter, fisherman and woodworker.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Rice is survived by two daughters, Tresia Moon of San Bernardino, California, and Laura Ann Johnson of Litchfield; a son, Robert K. Rice, Jr. of Bronson; five stepchildren, Diane Ely of Jacksonville, Florida, Doris Isaac of Westland, Esther McPherson of Marshall, Mary Dickinson of Hillsdale and Mickey Dickinson of Homer; a sister, Mildred Crawford of Camden; 16 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a sister.
Funeral services were held Monday, April 24, at the Camden Missionary Church, with Pastor Jeff Truex officiating. Interment followed at the Camden Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the family.
Arrangements were handled by the St. John-White Funeral Home in Reading.
Frederick "Fritz" Lincoln
Frederick "Fritz" Lincoln, 76, of Litchfield, died Saturday, April 22, 2000, at his home.
Mr. Lincoln was born September 1, 1923, in Wayne County, to Zara Byron and Ada (Gladding) Lincoln. He owned and operated a service station in Litchfield for 17 years and was a foundry superintendent at Gale Manufacturing for more than 20 years. He was also a farmer.
Mr. Lincoln was a World War II army veteran, serving in the European Theatre, where he participated in the Normandy invasion. He received four Bronze Stars and the Purple Heart. He was a former member of the Homer American Legion, and enjoyed deer hunting, gardening and harness racing.
Survivors include a daughter, Bonnie Ament of Big Sandy, Tennessee; a son, Fred Lincoln of Reading; a companion, Betty Tervol of Litchfield; two sisters, Laura Doman of Horton and Zarena Coates of Warren; four grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, two sisters and a grandson.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, April 25, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating. Interment followed in Burlington Cemetery in Calhoun County.
Memorials are suggested to the Hospice of Hillsdale County.
May 3, 2000 - No obits
May 10, 2000
Charlotte May Merica
Charlotte May Merica, 83, of Homer, died Saturday, May 6, 2000, at Branch County Health Center in Coldwater.
Mrs. Merica was born August 18, 1916, in Walcottville, Indiana, to Franklin and Wilma (Keck) Slagle. She married Marion McVee Merica July 11, 1932. He preceded her in death in 1973.
Mrs. Merica came to the Homer area in 1936. She was a homemaker, who loved to cook and sew.
Survivors include two sons, William F. Merica of Montpelier, Ohio, and Walter L. (Annabelle) Merica of Homer; three daughters, Marjorie Robinson of Homer, Mrs. George (Joyce) Stanley of Quincy, and Mrs. Eugene (Mary) Ballinger of Homer; 17 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; and a sister, Gladys Pauline Tech of Litchfield.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Merica was preceded in death by a brother, Leroy Eugene Slagle, and two sisters, Winona Stull and Dolly Slagle.
Funeral services were Tuesday, May 9, at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, Inc., with Mrs. Teresa Bonifield leading the service. Burial was in Westside Cemetery in Colon.
Stephen Cuer
Stephen Cuer, two-month-old son of Steven Cuer and Katrina Hulbert, of Litchfield, died Saturday, May 6, 2000, at the Hillsdale Community Health Center.
In addition to his parents, he is survived by grandparents Maryann Hulbert of Homer and Gilbert and Alberta Gibbs of North Carolina; great-grandparents Mr. and Mrs. Manuel Martinez of Litchfield; great-great grandmother Providencia Serbin of Kansas; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
Graveside services will be today (Wednesday) at 1 p.m. at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Litchfield, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating. Visitation is today from 11 a.m. until the time of services at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.
John O. Smith
John O. Smith, 91, of Reading Township, died Saturday, May 6, 2000, at Community Health Center of Branch County.
Mr. Smith was born November 2, 1908, in Litchfield, to Charles Alpha and Mary Ann (Steinmetz) Smith. He married Hazel Burdorf and she preceded him in death in 1964.
Mr. Smith graduated from Litchfield High School in 1928. He was a member of the Litchfield Fire Department for 18 years, retiring as captain. He was retired from Simpson Industries and Purdy Ford. At one time he owned and operated a service station, as well as acted as sexton of Mt. Hope Cemetery in Litchfield. He was also the manager of the former Squire-Dingee Pickle Co. in Litchfield.
Survivors include three sons, Alfred (Geraldine) Smith of Higgins Lake, Max (Donna) Smith of Reading, and Edwin (Diane) Smith of Litchfield; one brother, Robert (Nona) Smith of Coldwater; six grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by two brothers and two sisters.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., May 20, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating. There will be no visitation.
Memorials are suggested to the Litchfield Fire Department or the American Heart Association.
May 17, 2000
Dale E. "Bim" Wagoner
Dale E. "Bim" Wagoner, 84, of Pierson, and formerly of Homer, died Thursday, May 11, 2000, at Transitional Health Services in Fremont.
Mr. Wagoner was born in Albion June 6, 1915, to Clinton Paul and Wilhelmina (Reichow) Wagoner. He married Joan Elizabeth Weimer August 20, 1938, in Homer. She survives in Sparta.
Mr. Wagoner graduated from Homer High School in 1934. He was employed at Calhoun Foundry, retiring in 1976 as a foreman in charge of shipping. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church in Homer and the Homer Lions Club. He served on the Homer Village Council. He enjoyed bowling, softball and golf.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Wagoner is survived by a daughter, Jane Moore of Concord; a son, William (Toni) Wagoner of Pierson; four grandson, Brent Michael and Scott (Elizabeth) Michael of Homer, and Michael Wagoner and Steven (Dawn) Wagoner of Traverse City; and three great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by four brothers, four sisters and a son, Thomas.
Funeral services were held Saturday, May 13, at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, with the Rev. Johannes Poetschner officiating. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Homer Area Community Foundation, Homer Presbyterian Church, Alzheimer's Association or to the donor's choice.
Harm "Jack" Elkins
Harm "Jack" Elkins, 67, of rural Jonesville, died Sunday, May 14, 2000, at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Ann Arbor.
Mr. Elkins was born January 3, 1933, in Pike County, Kentucky, to William and Arminta (Russell) Elkins. He married Geneva Johnson October 29, 1954, and she survives.
Mr. Elkins was retired from Corning Class in Albion, where he had been employed for 20 years. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during the Korean Conflict.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Elkins is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Dallas (Nettie) Bondsteel of Hillsdale, Susie Jordan of Osseo, and Mrs. Daniel (Kathy) Nichols of Jonesville; a son, James Elkins of Kentucky; 14 grandchildren, Jason, James, Jaclyn, Kay, Jesica, Amy, Jennifer, Dallas, James, Elizabeth, Timothy, Austin, Pat and Jody; and three great-grandchildren, Burly, Tristen and Payton.
He was preceded in death by four brothers and three sisters.
Funeral services are today (Wednesday) at 2 p.m. at the Little Marie Church, Litchfield, with interment following at Mosherville Cemetery. Visitation is any time after noon Tuesday at the Little Marie Church.
Memorials are suggested to the VA Hospital, Ann Arbor.
Arrangements were made by George White Funeral Home, Litchfield.
May 24, 2000
Mary Lee Keillor
Mary Lee Keillor, 76, former longtime resident of Hillsdale, winter resident of Fort Myers, Florida, and summer resident of Traverse City, died Wednesday, April 19, 2000, in Fort Myers.
She was born March 30, 1924, in Homer, to Richard and Louise Osborn. She graduated from Homer High School and was drum majorette of the high school band. She was a leader and charter member of Camp Fire. She worked as a telephone operator, church secretary, receptionist at Hillsdale High School and as a homemaker.
Mrs. Keillor was a lifelong member of the Hillsdale Presbyterian Church and had served as a deacon; was a member and past president of The Ladies Golf Association of Hillsdale Golf and Country Club in Hillsdale; charter member of the Myerlee Country Club, where she had six holes-in-one; and was also a member of Covenant Presbyterian Church in Fort Myers. She was a member of The Women's Golf League and, along with her husband and son, was co-owner of The Crystal Lake Golf Club in Beulah. She enjoyed traveling, especially to Scotland, Germany, Austria and Canada.
Surviving are her husband, Arthur M. Keillor whom she married in Battle Creek December 27, 1944; two children, Susan Keillor of Lake Ann, and Bruce Keillor of Beulah; grandchildren, Justin, Aaron and Kathryn Keillor of Beulah; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 10, at 11 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, Hillsdale. Memorials may be made to Hospice House or The Alzheimer Resource Center, 9470 Health Park Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908.
Bessie Louise Smith
Bessie Louise Smith, 95, of Homer, died Wednesday, May 17, 2000, at Maplewood Assisted Living Center in Marshall.
Mrs. Smith was born August 31, 1904, in Eckford Township, to Herbert and Margaret (Curry) Humphrey. She married William R. Smith October 1, 1927. He preceded her in death in 1983.
Mrs. Smith was a 1922 graduate of Homer High School. She earned a teaching certificate from Western Normal School (now WMU) and taught for many years in Tekonsha, Homer and surrounding country schools. She was a member and past Matron of Stella Chapter #140 in Homer, the OES of Michigan, and a 50-year member of the Ladies Home Extension Club. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Homer, the Faith Circle, and served in several church offices. She enjoyed 24 winters in Palmetto, Florida, and was a member of the Palmetto Trailer Club. She was also a member of the Farm Bureau.
Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Leon (Joan) Brodock of Tekonsha; three sons, Robert (Doris) Smith of Homer, Donald (Mary) Smith of Litchfield and Gareth (Karen) Smith of Brighton; two sisters, Olive Thomas of Coldwater, and Elsie Smith of Homer; 18 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Smith was preceded in death by a son, John Smith, and two brothers, Rex and Carl Humphrey.
Graveside and OES services were held Monday, May 22, at Fairview Cemetery in Homer. A memorial service followed at the First Presbyterian Church, with the Revs. Johannes and Charlotte Poetschner officiating.
Memorials are suggested to the Homer Area Community Foundation Bessie L. Smith Scholarship Fund or the Presbyterian Church.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.
Louberdia Allen
Louberdia Allen, 68, of Homer, died Friday, May 19, 2000, at Faith Haven Living Center in Parma.
Mrs. Allen was born July 19, 1931, in Greenup, Kentucky to Agur and Louverna (Duncan) Sagraves. She married Menifee Allen March 21, 1947. He survives.
Mrs. Allen was a long-time member of Bible Baptist Church, which later became Riverside Baptist Church in Homer. She enjoyed playing and singing gospel music and writing songs. Other hobbies were collecting dolls, cooking and walking.
In addition to her husband, survivors include four daughters, Verna (Lonnie) Basham, Loretta (Eddie) Perkins, Polly (Ralph) Summa and Daisy (Tom) Wright; six sons, John (Cathy), Sam (Brenda), Kindle (Karen), Lacy (LaDonna), Menifee "Jack" Jr., and Charles "Ed" (Lisa); several brothers and sisters; 17 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a daughter, Evelyn Allen.
Funeral services were held Monday, May 22, at the Grace Free Will Baptist Church in Albion, with the Revs. Earl Martin and Doug Richie officiating. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.
Memorials are suggested to the American Diabetes Association.
May 31, 2000
Earl Ray Clay, Sr.
Earl Ray Clay, Sr., 49, of Oroville, California, and formerly of Homer, died Thursday, May 18, 2000, in Chico, California.
Mr. Clay was born July 16, 1950, in Ragland, West Virginia, to Arlie Sr. and Viola (Mahon) Clay. He married Deanna Segerstrom July 5, 1979, in Marshall. She survives.
Mr. Clay moved to Homer in December 1958. He moved to Oroville in 1988.
In addition to his wife, survivors include five children, Lori Foust of Hillsdale, Earl Ray Clay II of Jackson, Gail Segerstrom of Allen, Darin Clay of Homer, and James Clay of Homer; two brothers, Robert Clay of Battle Creek and Charles Clay of Homer; one sister Delorse (Clay) Ryan of LaFayette, Tennessee; and 12 grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Christina Marie Clay; a brother Arlie Clay, Jr., and a nephew, Tom Clay.
A memorial service was held Saturday, May 27, at Fairview Cemetery in Homer. Funeral arrangements were handled by the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Homes.
Charles Laurice Gregg
Charles Laurice Gregg, 88, of Litchfield, died Wednesday, May 24, 2000, at the Litchfield Nursing Centre.
Mr. Gregg was born February 16, 1912, in Homer Township, to Charles R. and Minnie Louise (Wade) Gregg. He married Mary Cecelia Hubert September 15, 1940. She preceded him in death in 1998.
Mr. Gregg was a graduate of Homer High School and attended Michigan Agricultural College. He was a retired dairy farmer and had also been employed at Harvard of Hillsdale and the Hillsdale County Road Commission. He was a member of the Farmers Club, the Litchfield United Methodist Church and was a lifelong member of the Litchfield IOOF Lodge #555.
Survivors include three sons, John L. (Stephanie) Gregg of Eaton Rapids, Lynn H. Gregg of Columbia, Maryland, and Dean C. (Linda) Gregg of Salinas, California; a brother, Hollis (Ila) Gregg of Haslett; seven grandchildren; and one great-grandson.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Milo Gregg.
Graveside services were Tuesday, May 30, at Mount Hope Cemetery in Litchfield, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating. There was also a Service of Remembrance by the IOOF Lodge.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.
Memorials are suggested to Hospice of Hillsdale County.
Ashlee Linnabary
Ashlee Linnabary, 4, of Homer, died Monday, May 22, 2000, at home.
Survivors include her mother, Jessica Moyer; her father, William Linnabary; a sister, Abagail; a brother, William; grandparents, Dale and Becky Andrews, Doug Moyer and Vernon and Carol Linnabary; and great-grandparents, James and Edith Dun, Andy Andrews and Margaret Linnabary.
Funeral services were held Friday, May 26, at the Charles J. Burden & Sons Funeral Home in Jackson. Burial was in Hillcrest Memorial Park in Jackson.
Memorials are suggested to the Council for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect.
June 7, 2000
Robert Brian Barrington
Robert Brian Barrington, 21, of rural Jonesville, died Thursday, June 1, 2000, at the Hillsdale Community Health Center.
Mr. Barrington was born December 4, 1978, in Hillsdale. He was a 1998 graduate of Jonesville High School. He was a student and volunteer for the Host program at Jonesville schools.
He was a former member of the FFA and Boy Scouts of America, and he faithfully attended Litchfield United Methodist Church.
Survivors include his father and stepmother, Scott and Debra (Sykes) Barrington of Jonesville; his mother and stepfather, Theresa (Magda) and Mike Horn of Hillsdale; five sisters, Kristine Goodwin of Marshall, and Sarah, Anna, Carla and Amy Barrington of Jonesville; grandparents Twila Barrington of Hillsdale, and Gerald and Annette Magda of Hanover; his step-grandparents, Robert and Jean Sykes of Litchfield; and many extended family members.
Funeral services were held Monday, June 5, at the Litchfield United Methodist Church with the Rev. Kathy Brown officiating. Interment followed at the Mosherville Cemetery. Funeral arrangements were handled by the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Muscular Dystrophy Association or to the Litchfield United Methodist Church sound system fund.
Frances Jackson
Frances Jackson, 63, of Mancelona, died Monday, May 29, 2000, at Kalkaska Memorial Health Center.
Mrs. Jackson was born December 14, 1936, to Sylvester and Daisy Hissong. She married Richard Lee Jackson, Sr. August 5, 1961. He preceded her in death March 15, 1999.
Mrs. Jackson enjoyed reading, fishing and playing cards.
Survivors include five children, Richard L. Jackson, Jr. of Mancelona, Graves Lee Jackson of Colorado, Jo Arlene (Brett) Smith of Litchfield, Michelle (Sammy) Frances of Homer, and Leo Jackson of Homer; and nine grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Jackson was preceded in death by her parents, and three sisters, Marlene, Mona and Sheila.
Funeral services were held Friday, June 2, at Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in Mancelona, with the Rev. Fr. Fredrick Myers of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Elk Rapids officiating. Interment was in Chapman Cemetery, Custer Township, Antrim County.
Rita C. McQueen
Rita C. McQueen, 78, of Homer, died Saturday, May 28, 2000.
Mrs. McQueen was born September 15, 1921, in Lansing to Joseph and Anna (Tortu) Karnath.
Mrs. McQueen retired in 1983 from Oldsmobile Corporation as an inspector after 30 years. She was a member of UAW Local #652.
Survivors include two daughters, Georgia L. (Harold) Morris of Holt, and Susan K. (Kenneth) Reynolds of Homer; a stepdaughter, Charlotte (Jerry) Runyon of Portland; 12 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
She was preceded in death by her husband George W. McQueen in 1976, a son, Gary Williams, and a stepson Raymond Lynn.
Funeral services were held Thursday, June 1, at the Gorsline-Runciman Co. Neller Chapel in Portland, with the Rev, Charles D. Hall of St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Portland officiating.
The Rite of Committal was held in Portland Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Lung Association of Michigan.
June 14, 2000
Robert F. Anderson
Robert F. Anderson, 76, of Homer, died Wednesday, June 7, 2000, at Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall.
Mr. Anderson was born July 9, 1923, in Homer, to Chester Burdette and Ethel May (Benham) Anderson. He married Stella Kozbiel in Albion and later married Elizabeth Kaiser in Homer. Both marriages ended in divorce.
Mr. Anderson attended Homer High School. He was a U.S. Army World War II veteran serving in England. After leaving the service, he worked with his father and brothers in B. Anderson and Sons, delivering bulk oil and gas. He was a member of the Homer VFW and enjoyed telling stories and putting a smile on your face.
Survivors include two daughters, Kathi Hewitt of Homer and Robin Anderson of Marshall; a son, Andrew Anderson of England; 11 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one stepson, Nicholas Corey, Jr. of Columbus, Ohio; a sister, Daurel Ambler of Battle Creek; two brothers, Richard "Duane" Anderson of San Antonio, Texas, and Merle Anderson of Coldwater; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by a son Harold; a sister Bernice Slate; and a brother, Burdette "Andy" Anderson, Jr.
According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. A graveside memorial service was held Monday, June 12, at Fairview Cemetery in Homer, with the Rev. Charlotte Poetschner officiating.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels.
Memorial contributions may be made to the donor's choice.
Ruth L. Vagg
Ruth L. Vagg, 87, of Litchfield, died Sunday, June 11, 2000, at the Branch County Community Health Center.
Mrs. Vagg was born January 14, 1913, to Frederick and Louise (Hartwig) Sandow. She married Orson R. Vagg October 10, 1934. He preceded her in death in 1998.
Mrs. Vagg was a homemaker and was retired from the Coldwater Regional Center. She attended the Litchfield United Methodist Church, and was a former member of the Farmers Club and Home Extension Club.
Survivors include a daughter, Joanette Carey of Waldorf, Maryland; a son, Gene Vagg of Jackson; a brother, Howard Sandow of Rockport, New York; eight grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Jerry; a sister; and a brother.
Funeral services will be private and are being handled by the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield. Interment will be in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
Memorials are suggested to the Litchfield District Library.
Hazel M. Hamilton
Hazel M. Hamilton, 85, of Grand Rapids, and formerly of Homer, died Sunday, June 4, 2000, at her son's home in Marshall.
Mrs. Hamilton was born May 22, 1915, in Battle Creek, to Frank and Nadine (Treadwell) Myers. She graduated from Tekonsha High School.
Mrs. Hamilton married Haskell D. Hamilton in LaGrange, Indiana, in 1938. He preceded her in death in July of 1978.
Mrs. Hamilton was an avid homemaker. She loved working with her hands sewing, crocheting, doing ceramics and making crafts.
Survivors include a son, Boyd (Judy) Hamilton; two grandchildren, Lisa Cook of Marshall and Kevin Cleveland of Charlotte; great-grandchildren Kayla Dunn and Ethan Crouch of Marshall; and a sister, Helen Bartolotti of Grand Rapids.
A memorial will be held Friday, June 16, at 2 p.m. at Albion Memory Gardens Chapel in Albion.
June 21, 2000
Mabel A, Lucas
Mabel A. Lucas, 92, of Jonesville, died Friday, June 16, 2000, at the "Mac" McGuire Skilled Care Facility in Hillsdale.
Mrs. Lucas was born June 29, 1907, in Cook County, Illinois, to Leslie and Edna (McCormick) Smith. She married Wayne A. Lucas September 8, 1931. He preceded her in death in 1994.
Mrs. Lucas was a long-time resident of the area and was a homemaker. She was a member of the Litchfield Congregational Church and was a former member of the Rebekah Lodge in Jackson.
Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Gayle (Lillian) Stimer of Jackson and Mrs. Dean (Dorothy) Lovitt of Concord; two sons, James (Sue) Lucas of Odessa, Florida, and Leslie "Pete" (Bonnie) Lucas of Jonesville; 15 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Lucas was preceded in death by a brother, two sisters and a grandson, David Lovitt.
Funeral services were Monday, June 19, at the Congregational Church, with the Rev. Michael Murray officiating. Interment followed in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
The George White Funeral Home in Litchfield handled the arrangements.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Juvenile Diabetes Fund or the Litchfield Congregational Church.
Maurice David Tucker
Maurice D. "David" Tucker, 49, of Marshall, died at Oaklawn Hospital Thursday, June 15, 2000, where he was taken after being stricken at home.
Mr. Tucker was born October 20, 1950, in Marshall, to Maurice D. and Mary (Sell) Tucker. He married Laurie P. "Pam" Johnson August 1, 1970. Their marriage ended in divorce. He married Sheri L. (Eldred) McCullough March 3, 2000, in Battle Creek. She survives him.
Mr. Tucker attended Marshall Schools, and had lived there all his life. He served in the U.S. Army in the late 1960s, serving in Korea. He was honorably discharged in 1970, and returned to Marshall. He had worked for the Marshall City Water Department for more than 20 years, serving as foreman for a number of years. He had also worked on the Neal Shaffer farm for a time.
He was a member of Claude E. Hale Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #4073, and was a former member of Moose Lodge #676. He enjoyed trips to the casino in Mt. Pleasant, and to northern Michigan, particularly Mackinac Island. He was known as the family "grass farmer", taking great pride in mowing and caring for his yard. He loved his family, and liked to be the first awake on Christmas morning to awaken his family. He particularly enjoyed time with his grandchildren.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by three daughters, Lynsey K. (Steve) Zoss and Laurie A. (Chris) Harris of Marshall, and Leslie (Patrick) Shaffer of Tekonsha; two step-sons, Joshua L. McCullough and Matthew S. McCullough, both at home; four grandchildren, Megan K. Zoss, Bailey A. Harris, Ryan C. Harris and Ryleigh E. Shaffer; his mother, Margaret Mary Tucker of Marshall; four brothers, Thomas D. Tucker of Marshall, Bryce E. Tucker of Homer, Clarence E. Tucker of Marshall and Mike Lake of Paw Paw; a sister, Louise M. Russell of Marshall; and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Maurice D. Tucker; a grandson, Blake David Tucker; a brother, Charles Lake; and a sister, Nancy Tucker.
Funeral services were held Tuesday at the Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home in Marshall. Interment followed at Oakridge Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to an educational fund for his grandchildren.
June 28, 2000
Robert Allen March
Robert Allen March, 46, died Wednesday, June 21, 2000, at Foote Hospital in Jackson.
Mr. March was born June 14, 1954, in Marshall, to Alva Allen and Leona (Davenport) March. They preceded him in death.
Mr. March lived in Jackson since 1985 and was formerly of Homer. He worked at various farms in the area. He loved working outdoors. He was a member of Page Avenue Baptist Church in Jackson. He worked with stained glass and enjoyed all types of music.
Survivors include a son, Simon Ray March of Jackson; a daughter, Karri March of Battle Creek; three brothers, James Davenport of Union City, Ronald March of Tekonsha, and Alva March, Jr. of Jackson; and three sisters, Shirley Miller of Concord, Belva Simpkins of Michigan Center, and Mary Ross of Jackson.
Graveside services were held Monday, June 26, at Fairview Cemetery in Homer, with Pastor Stacy Britt officiating.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels.
Memorial contributions may be made to the children.
Pearl Anna Green
Pearl Anna Green, 91, formerly of Allegan, and Litchfield and Homer areas, passed away Sunday, June 25, 2000, at Hillsdale County Medical Care Facility.
Mrs. Green was born January 27, 1909, in Allegan County, Michigan, to James and Mary (Jacobs) Clawson.
She married Frank Green September 22, 1964. He preceded her in death in 1988.
Mrs. Clawson was a member of the Litchfield United Methodist Church and Farm Bureau.
She is survived by three stepdaughters, Wilma Gregg of Homer, Anita (Pat) Smith of Litchfield and Charlene Rogers of Green Valley, Arizona; nine step-grandchildren, 20 step-great-grandchildren, nine step-great-great-grandchildren; and three nephews, Carl Collier and Earl (Sue) Collier, both of Allegan, and Don (Judy) Collier of Hopkins.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Green was preceded in death by two sisters, Pansy Collier and Mabel Clawson.
Funeral services will be held today (Wednesday) at 11 a.m. at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Rev. Kathy Brown officiating. Interment will be at Poplar Hill Cemetery, Allegan County, at 3:30 p.m. today.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Hillsdale County Medical Care Facility - activities fund.
July 5, 2000
Cecil J. Fowler
Cecil J. Fowler, 69, of Homer, died Monday, June 26, 2000, at his residence.
Mr. Fowler was born August 11, 1930, in Union City, to Cecil and Aretta (Cain) Fowler. He was a graduate of Homer High School. He married Shirley Bartlett April 16, 1949. She survives.
Mr. Fowler was a painter for Dave Semon and Son Painting in Homer for 18 years, and had been employed at Game Time, Inc. in Litchfield. He was a member of the Big 9 Sportsmans Club and managed the trap-shooting range for five years. In addition, he enjoyed yard work, gardening, playing cards, fishing and hunting.
In addition to his wife, survivors include his mother, Aretta Fowler of Homer; two daughters, Mrs. Kent (Connie) Litchard of Rock and Amy Fowler of Albion; three sons, William Fowler of Homer, Roger (Sharon) Fowler of Coldwater, and C.J. (Debbie) Fowler of Homer; a sister, Mrs. David (Delores "Dot') Waid of Homer; 18 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his father and a brother, Lloyd Fowler.
Funeral services were held Thursday, June 29, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Rev. Larry Fulton officiating. Interment followed in Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorials are suggested to the Hospice-Lifespan or the Big 9 Sportsmans Club.
July 12, 2000 - No obituaries
July 19, 2000
Retha M. Cutler
Retha M. Cutler, of Litchfield, died Wednesday, July 12, 2000.
Mrs. Cutler was born in Boyne City to Burton and Bessie (Miner) Drayton. She was a court reporter at the Hillsdale County District Court from 1971-85. She had also worked at Starr Commonwealth in Albion and at Mercy Hospital in Jackson.
Mrs. Cutler was a member and president of the Legal Secretaries Association, the Litchfield Business and Professional Womens Association, the Hillsdale and Branch County Historical Societies and the Hillsdale Garden Club.
Mrs. Cutler enjoyed flower gardening, traveling, crocheting, her family and her dog.
Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Don (Lynn) Hoffman of Burlington; a son, Charles Cutler of Weidman; eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Harvey L. Cutler, in 1985; two daughters, Ann Crew and Joyce Tesch; and two sisters, Violet Becker and Frances Boger.
Funeral services were held Monday, July 17, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating. Interment was in Mount Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
Memorials are suggested to the Humane Society or the Lupus Foundation.
Ronald L. Dodes
Ronald L. Dodes, 59, of Homer, died Tuesday, July 11, 2000, at his residence.
Mr. Dodes was born January 26, 1941, in Albion, to Dale and Dolores (Pell) Dodes. He graduated from Albion High School. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, HO model trains, his grandchildren and tinkering.
Mr. Dodes had been employed at Seiler Tank Service, Calhoun County Road Commission, Jackson Iron and Metal, and Steel Products of Homer.
He married Sandra Beatty July 8, 1967. She survives.
In addition to his wife, survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Lloyd (Lorrie) Mosher of Homer and Natalie Dodes of Homer; two sons, Scott (Debbie) Dodes of Portage and Ross (Heather) Dodes of Arlington, Texas; his mother, Dolores Dodes of Albion; and grandchildren Brittany, Bryan and Tyler Mosher; and Josh and Ryan Powers.
He was preceded in death by his father.
Funeral services were held Saturday, July 15, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Rev. Larry Fulton officiating. Interment was in Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorials are suggested to the family.
Estella Homan
Estella Homan, 95, of Marshall, and formerly of Homer, died Monday, July 10, 2000, at Marshall Manor in Marshall.
According to her wishes, cremation has taken place and memorial graveside services will be announced later.
Memorials are suggested to the Homer First Presbyterian Church or the Homer Senior Center. Assistance with memorials is available at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels.
John C. Hawkins
John C. Hawkins, 78, of Tekonsha, died Friday, July 14, 2000, at his home.
Mr. Hawkins was born September 6, 1921, in Rockford, Illinois, to Jack and Buford (Engle) Hawkins.
He served four years with the U.S. Marine Corps and was a veteran of World War II. He was a life member of the VFW. Mr. Hawkins was retired from Graff Trucking in Kalamazoo.
He married Virginia J. Moor December 24, 1947, in Marshall. She survives.
Also surviving are a daughter Linda (David) Allen of Portage; a daughter-in-law, Patty Hawkins of Homer; four grandsons, Jeffrey S. Johnson of Racine, Wisconsin, and John J. (Holly) Hawkins, Donald V. Hawkins and Michael A. Hawkins, all of Homer; two granddaughters, Lorrie (Bill) Bonczyk of Portage and Rosemarie (Dr. Ted) Glynn of San Antonio, Texas; three great-grandchildren, Samantha, Elizabeth and Jessica; a sister, Anna (Truman) Gordnier of Morena Valley, California; and a brother, Adrian (Betty) Hawkins of Tucson, Arizona.
Mr. Hawkins was preceded in death by a son, Larry M. Hawkins, and a sister, Mae Shaffer.
A memorial service will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery at a later date. The Putnam Funeral Home in Tekonsha handled the arrangements.
Memorial contributions, in lieu of flowers per Mr. Hawkins' wishes, may be made to Lifespan Hospice or the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
Rex W. Chapman
Rex W. Chapman, 82, of Union City, died Saturday, July15, 2000, at his home.
He was born October 16, 1917, in Homer, to Homer and Estella (Howard) Chapman.
During World War II, he served in the U.S. Army in the European theater.
Mr. Chapman was employed by the U.S. Postal Service for 35 years before retiring. He was a member of the Masons, American Legion, Royal Oak United Methodist Church and Avon Park (Florida) Presbyterian Church.
On August 31, 1941, he married Irene Connelly in Boulder City, Nevada. She died in 1989.
Surviving are two sons, Richard Chapman of Lake Orion and Larry Chapman of Berkley; two daughters, Linda Feldbusch of Rochester Hills and Mary Ann Blosser of Union City; nine grandchildren; 11great-grandchildren; two brothers, Ray Chapman of Portage and Bob Chapman of East Leroy; and three sisters, Mary VanMiddlesworth of Climax, Marcia Longman of North Adams and JoAnne Lambert of Avon Park, Florida.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Chapman also was preceded in death by a granddaughter.
Services will be held today (Wednesday) at 10:30 a.m. at First Baptist Church, Coldwater. Burial will be in Fort Custer National Cemetery.
Memorials contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or to the Shriners.
The Gillespie Funeral Home in Coldwater handled the arrangements.
July 26, 2000
Clara Schmidt
Clara Schmidt, 84, of Litchfield, died Sunday, July 23, 2000, at the Litchfield Nursing Centre.
Mrs. Schmidt was born June 25, 1916, in Floyd County, Kentucky, to John and Sarah Mandy (Williams) Adams.
Mrs. Schmidt was retired from McGraw-Edison Co. in Albion.
Survivors include a daughter, Christine Cronk of Homer; a son, Herbie Holbrook of Homer; 25 grandchildren; 64 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by two husbands, Albert Holbrook in 1959 and Julius Schmidt in 1981; four sons; four sisters and four brothers.
Funeral services are today (Wednesday), July 26, at 1 p.m. at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with Pastor Tom O'Connor officiating.
Interment will follow in Whig Center Cemetery in Butler Township.
August 2, 2000
Estella Homan
A memorial service for Estella Homan, 95, will be held Sunday, August 6, at 1:30 p.m., at Fairview Cemetery in Homer. The Rev. Johannes Poetschner will officiate.
Ms. Homan of Marshall, and formerly of Homer, died July 1, 2000, at Marshall Manor in Marshall. She was born August 18, 1904, in Evart to Allen and Rose (Elmore) Homan. She never married.
Ms. Homan came to Homer in the 1940s. She kept house for the Highland family before taking care of Edward Janes for 20 years. She was a member of Homer First Presbyterian Church and the Homer Senior Center.
Survivors include three foster sons, Robert Janes of Dowling, George Janes of Horton, and William Janes of Battle Creek; and a foster daughter, Edith Stit* of Riverside, California.
Memorials are suggested to the Homer First Presbyterian Church or the Homer Senior Center. Assistance with memorials can be made through the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels.
Martha Avery
Martha Avery, 92, of Homer, died Thursday, July 27, 2000, at Tendercare in Marshall.
Mrs. Avery was born August 7, 1907, in Calhoun County to Edson and Bertha (Rogers) Booth. She married Arthur Avery December 17, 1925. He preceded her in death in 1969.
Mrs. Avery was a homemaker as well as helped her husband on the farm. She also drove truck on his milk route for several years. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Homer and its Women's Circle. She was also a member of the Eastern Star Stella chapter in Homer. She enjoyed handcrafts.
Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Delyle (Barbara) Butler of Homer; a son, Stewart (Patty) Avery of Tekonsha; a daughter-in-law, Fran Avery of Homer; a son-in-law, LaVon Klingaman of Tekonsha; 17 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Bonnie Klingaman in 1988; a son Alvin Avery in 1989; and a brother, Norman Booth.
Graveside services were held Monday, July 31, at Fairview Cemetery in Homer, with the Rev. Johannes Poetschner officiating.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.
Memorial contributions are suggested to First Presbyterian Church in Homer.
Avis "Flavilla" Littebrant
Avis "Flavilla" Littebrant, 89, of Concord, died Sunday, July 30, 2000, at the Litchfield Nursing Centre.
Mrs. Littebrant was born in Concord August 21, 1910, to Walter and Lydia Ethel (Buchanan) Ariss. She married Floyd H. Littebrant July 23, 1941, in Albion. He preceded her in death on March 14, 1984.
Mrs. Littebrant was a resident of the Homer-Concord area all of her life, and helped her husband on their farm. She was a 79-year member of the Concord Presbyterian Church, a member of the Willing Workers in the Fisher area, and also a member of the Home Extension Group in the same area. She enjoyed helping others and baking for other people.
Mrs. Littebrant is survived by a sister, Mrs. Russell (Bernadine) Luttenton of Concord; four nephews, Kevin (Renee) Luttenton of Concord, Mark (Teresa) Luttenton of Grand Haven, Blain (Priscilla) Luttenton of Tallahassee, Florida, and Brian (Sydney) Ariss of Marshall; numerous great-nieces and nephews; and a brother-in-law, Edwin (Arleatta) Littebrant of Homer.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Littebrant was preceded in death by a brother, Everett Ariss.
Visitation will be held Friday, August 4, from 1-5 p.m. at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, and Saturday, August 5, from 11 a.m. to the time of service, 2 p.m., at the Concord Presbyterian Church. The Rev. Dale Hartwig will officiate the 2 p.m. service. Burial will be in Fisher Cemetery in Homer Township.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Concord Presbyterian Church or Hillsdale County Hospice.
Robert Bolton Warner
Robert Bolton Warner, 78, of Washington D.C. and formerly of Homer, died.
Mr. Warner, a retired U.S. Information Agency foreign service officer, died of a brain tumor at Washington Hospice.
The Homer High School graduate joined the State Department in 1950, transferred to USIA in 1961, and retired in 1984. His early years with State included postings in Britain and Germany.
With the USIA, Mr. Warner served in Yugoslavia, and as public affairs counselor at the U.S. embassy in Prague from 1965 to 1968. He also had been chief of the European division of the Voice of America. His last assignment was senior inspection officer in USIA's Inspections Office.
He was a 1968 recipient of USIA's Meritorious Service Award for his work in Czechoslovakia during and after the historic "Prague Spring" of that year. He helped develop contacts with such rising intellectuals as the writer Vaclav Havel, a future president of Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic.
In retirement, Mr. Warner had done consulting work promoting private investments in the Czech Republic. He did volunteer work in Washington at St. Luke's Methodist Church's homeless shelter, where he became known as "King of the Meatloaf Dinner." During the 1988 presidential campaign, he was a full-time volunteer staffer at Bush-Quayle Republican presidential campaign headquarters.
Mr. Warner, who was born in Chicago and grew up in Homer, served with the Army in Europe during World War II. A graduate of Western Michigan University, he received a master's degree in international relations and a certificate in Eastern European Studies from Columbia University.
Survivors include his wife, Iza G. Warner of Washington; two daughters, Daphne Anne Warner of New York and Barbara W. Arnold of Washington; and three grandchildren.
Milford D. "Joe" Dunn
Milford D. "Joe" Dunn, 63, of Quincy, died Sunday, July 30, 2000, at his home.
Mr. Dunn was born January 19, 1937, in Jackson County, to William Milford and Elizabeth (Freer) Dunn. He married Jane Miller May 29, 1957. She survives.
Mr. Dunn graduated from Marshall High School. He was a dairy farmer for more than 30 years, and was also a carpenter and a commercial truck driver. He enjoyed playing horseshoes and pool, and fishing, hunting, and traveling to Florida. He was a member of the NRA, MMPA, Farm Bureau and AARP.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Dunn is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Ron (Kim) Carlisle of Quincy; two sons, Timothy (Kathy) Dunn and Joseph (Dana) Dunn, both of Quincy; his mother, Elizabeth Dunn of Homer; three sisters, Mrs. Rolland (Dorthea) Face of Marshall, Mrs. Galen (Doris) Lautenslager of Homer, and Mrs. Mike (Diana) Hopkins of Albion; two brothers, Dwight (Robin) Dunn of Homer and Dennis (Sharon) Dunn of Marshall; 10 grandsons; and five granddaughters.
He was preceded in death by his father; a brother, Jerry Dunn; and a daughter, Pamela Dunn.
Visitation will be held today (Wednesday) at the Deidrich-White Funeral Home in Quincy from 4-8 p.m. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with the Rev. David Minocko officiating. Interment will follow at Shooks Prairie Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Branch County Hospice.
August 9, 2000 -No obituaries
August 16, 2000
David D. Herlan
David D. Herlan, 49, of Hillsdale, died Tuesday, August 8, 2000, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident.
Mr. Herlan was born June 15, 1951, in Gladwin County, to Clyde and Alice (Eddy) Herlan. He graduated from Quincy High School and was employed as an oil field worker with Houseknecht Oil Co.
Mr. Herlan enjoyed drawing, yard work, the outdoors, and was a fan of Tiger baseball and Lion football.
Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Danny (Tammy) Neelis of Allen; a special friend, Marie Alleger of Hillsdale; two sisters, Mrs. Art (Karen) Smith of Homer, and Mrs. Fred (Betty) Trost of Gladwin; two brothers, Randall Herlan of Grand Rapids and Kenneth Herlan of Jackson; and three grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Gene Herlan.
Funeral services were Friday, August 11, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with Rev. Alan Fenstermaker officiating.
Interment was in Allen Cemetery.
Marvin Cline, Jr.
Marvin Cline, Jr., 72, of Albion, died Sunday, August 13, 2000, at Trillium Hospital in Albion, after an extended illness,
Mr. Cline was born November 28, 1927, in Pike County, Kentucky, to Marvin and Virgie (Bowling) Cline, Sr. He married Miggie Jean Hamilton September 24, 1973, and she survives.
Mr. Cline worked as a coal miner and also at Corning Glass Co. and Hayes-Albion Corp., retiring in 1985. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, where he obtained his pilot's license and developed a love for flying. In later years, he spent time with his grandchildren and enjoyed woodworking. He attended Riverside Baptist Church in Homer.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Cline is survived by three daughters, Debbie Ann Goode of Houston, Texas, Patty Jo Copley of Lexington, Ohio, and Glynis Marie Miller of Prestonsburg, Kentucky; a son, Donald Lee Cline of Livonia; two stepdaughters, Lori Ann (Watkins) Simmers and Mary Lou Watkins, both of Albion; a stepson, Jamie Michael Watkins of Albion; two brothers, James Cline of Litchfield and Virgil Cline of Varney, Kentucky; two sisters, Edna Mae Stanley of Ecorse and Jacqueline Beane of Springport; and 14 grandchildren.
Mr. Cline was preceded in death by a sister and two brothers.
Funeral services will be held today (Wednesday) at 1 p.m. at Riverside Baptist Church in Homer, with the Revs. Dan McCurry, Lewis Copley and Jerry Copley officiating. Interment will follow in Albion Memory Gardens.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the church.
Arrangements were made by J. Kevin Tidd, George White Funeral Home, Litchfield.
August 23, 2000
Elsie Rockwell
Elsie Rockwell, of Homer, passed away Monday, August 21, 2000, in Anchorage, Alaska.
Funeral arrangements are pending at George White Funeral Home in Litchfield. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Homer Area Community Foundation.
August 30, 2000
Elsie I. Rockwell
Elsie I. Rockwell, 75, of Homer, passed away Monday, August 21, 2000, at Providence Hospital, Anchorage, Alaska.
Mrs. Rockwell was born October 5, 1924, on the Hardt family farm in Albion Township, to Ralph and Ella (Hardt) Hakes.
She attended Benham School, and graduated from Homer High School in 1943. She worked in the war effort in Jackson, where she was also a member of the Jackson Women's Zouaves Drill Team. On her 20th birthday she was sworn in and reported for duty in the Women's Army Corps, assigned to mechanic training.
Mrs. Rockwell married Benjamin T. Rockwell February 2, 1946. He preceded her in death in 1997.
She had been employed at several Homer area grocery stores, including Bascom's, Felpausch, R & D and Lonny's. She was a charter and life member of the Ladies Auxiliary of VFW Post #9411, serving in various offices. She was a former president and officer of the Homer Alumni Association, and she was very dedicated to other community activities.
Mrs. Rockwell is survived by a daughter, Luanna (Phil) Miller of Homer; two sons, Randy Rockwell of Marshall and Ricky (Karen) Rockwell of Twining; three grandchildren, Daniel, Brent and Aaryn; three step-grandchildren; and four step-great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Rockwell was preceded in death by an infant daughter.
Funeral services were held Friday, August 25, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with Pastor Rick Rockwell officiating. Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery, Homer.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Homer Community Foundation.
Ellen C. Hull
Ellen C. Hull, 82, of Litchfield, passed away Tuesday, August 22, 2000, at her home.
Mrs. Hull was born April 7, 1918, in Jackson, to Morris and Helen (Anderson) Mason.
She married George H. Hull September 10, 1939. He preceded her in death in 1991.
At one time, Mrs. Hull was a nurses aide at Foote Hospital, and she had also been a cook in the Jackson Public Schools and worked for the Salvation Army in Jackson. She especially enjoyed crocheting.
Mrs. Hull is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Louis (Judy) Vargo of Litchfield and Mrs. Raymond (Sharon) Sackrider of Fayetteville, Ohio; two sons, A. Duane Hull of Ormond Beach, Florida, and John Hull of Litchfield; a sister, Virginia Morrisey of Jackson; a brother, Morris Mason of Jackson; 10 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Hull was preceded in death by a son, Terry, and a sister.
Funeral services were held Saturday, August 26, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield. Interment followed at Roseland Park Cemetery, Jackson.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lifespan Hospice, 166 E. Goodale Ave., Battle Creek, MI 49017-2728.
Donald E. Drumm Sr.
Donald E. Drumm Sr. 60, of Homer, died Sunday, August 27, 2000, at Tendercare Nursing Center in Battle Creek.
Mr. Drumm was born March 4, 1940, in Marengo Township to George and Gladys (Roarke) Drumm. He married Patsy Armstrong June 20, 1959. She preceded him in death December 17, 1999.
Mr. Drumm worked at Union Steel Products in Albion for more than 30 years. He was a former member of the Homer Conservation Club, and enjoyed camping, fishing, tractor pulls, county fairs and card playing.
Survivors include five daughters, Mrs. David (Sheila) Frost of Mt. Home, Arkansas, Mrs. Mike (Wendy) Wheeler of Litchfield, Sheryl Fulton of Angola, Indiana, Mrs. David (Louise) Boehlke of Albion, and Julie Jeffrey of Tekonsha; two sons, Donald E. Drumm, Jr. of Homer, and Michael (Paula) Drumm of Homer; two sisters, Iris Camp of Marshall, and Joanne Kelly of Georgia; one brother, Douglas Drumm; 16 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
Funeral services are today (Wednesday) at 1 p.m. at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Rev. Harris Hoekwater officiating.
Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
September 6, 2000
Belinda Gail Hunnaman
Belinda Gail Hunnaman, 38, of Litchfield, died Wednesday, August 30, 2000, at her residence.
Mrs. Hunnaman was born January 4, 1962, in Martin, Kentucky, to Dallas and Isola (Shepherd) Prater. They survive in Homer. She married Thomas R. Hunnaman in 1985 in Homer. He also survives.
Mrs. Hunnaman was a resident of Calhoun County and Litchfield for most of her life. She worked at Manchester Plastics in Homer and was a member of the Riverside Baptist Church in Homer.
In addition to her husband and parents, survivors include a son, Bobby Carl Johnson, Jr. of Litchfield; a daughter, Brandi Jo Hunnaman of Homer; her maternal grandmother, Mary J. Shepherd of Homer; three brothers, Dallas (fiancé Amy) Prater, Jr., Danny Joe (Carla) Prater, and Lonnie Darrell (Marti) Prater, all of Homer; two nieces; and three nephews.
She was preceded in death by a son Isaiah in August 1999; a daughter Monica Leann in February, 1986; and her maternal grandfather Joseph Shepherd.
Funeral services were held Saturday, September 2, at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, Inc., with the Rev. Doug Ritchie officiating.
Interment followed in Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
September 13, 2000
David J. Semon
David J. Semon, 63, of Homer, died Tuesday, September 5, 2000, at his residence.
Mr. Semon was born February 9, 1937, in Jackson, to Forrest and Mary (Hague) Semon. He married Marlene Easton June 18, 1955. She survives.
Mr. Semon was a lifelong resident of Homer. He was a self-employed commercial painter for 40 years. He was a former member of the Elks, Moose and Eagles, all of Albion. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting, fishing and watching deer. His family and friends were an important part of his life. He was a member of the Big 9 Sportsman Club of Pulaski. At one time he was a volunteer fireman in Homer.
In addition to his wife, survivors include two daughters, Mary (Jim) Worthington and Jodie (Tim) Anderson, both of Homer; a son, Tim (Pam) Semon of Wilmington, North Carolina; a brother, John Semon of Florida; six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
Three brothers, Bill, Bob and Danny preceded him in death.
Graveside services were held Friday, September 8, at Fairview Cemetery in Homer with the Rev. Johannes Poetschner officiating.
Funeral arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd of George White Funeral Homes, Inc. in Litchfield.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Jackson or the donor's choice.
Clara J. Wiegand
Clara J. Wiegand, 44, of East LeRoy, died Friday, September 8, 2000, at her home.
Mrs. Wiegand was born February 24, 1956, in Union City, to Russell and Viola (Fleming) Sechler. She married Raymond Wiegand May 20, 1989. He survives.
Mrs. Wiegand owned and operated a floral shop in Homer and Clare's Creations in Mendon. She also worked as a custodian and bus driver for Homer Public Schools. She enjoyed animals, fishing, bicycling, being outdoors, good friends, camping and her dog.
In addition to her husband, survivors include her mother and stepfather, Viola and Basil Sunday of Girard; two daughters, Michelle Freeburn of Jackson and Amy Miller of Athens; a sister, Mrs. Dan (Connie) Anderson of Florida; three brothers, Jim Sechler, Donnie (Carol) Sechler of Coldwater and Michael (Lois) Sechler of Girard; four stepsisters, Synda (Jim) Stauffer of Bronson, Lyn Outman of Ashley, Indiana, and Trudy (Kevin) Hahn and Tammie (Cregg) Mahoney, both of Burr Oak; a stepbrother Rodney (Jodi) Sunday of Tennessee; two granddaughters, Jordan and Brianna Freeburn; and many loving nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her father, Russell Sechler.
Funeral services were Tuesday, September 12, at the North Athens Baptist Church, with the Revs. Marvin Savola and Carol Sue Borkholden officiating.
Interment followed in North Athens Cemetery.
The George White Funeral Home in Litchfield handled the funeral arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family.
September 20, 2000
Leland D. Murphy
Leland D. Murphy, 76, of Homer, died Tuesday, September 12, 2000, in Albion.
Mr. Murphy was born April 2, 1924, in Decatur, Illinois, to James E. and Mary L. (Stonesifer) Murphy. He married Alma June Dolph August 26, 1945, in Albion. She preceded him in death.
Mr. Murphy lived in the Albion area most of his life. He worked for Decker Manufacturing for 38 years, retiring in 1986. He enjoyed camping, model airplanes and old movies. He loved and enjoyed his family, including his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Survivors include two sons, Leland D. (Sarah) Murphy Jr. of Homer, and Steven D. Murphy of Holland; a daughter, Susan (Harry) Armistead of Homer; six grandchildren, Sammanthia Brower of Zeeland, Dawayne A. Murphy of Homer, Trisha A. Nelson of Homer, S. Todd Murphy of Grand Rapids, Melinda Younglove of Albion and Jason Armistead of Homer; three step-grandchildren, Jennifer Christer, Michele Armistead and Ricky Armistead; three great-grandchildren, Gage Brower, Carter Brower and Kelsee Younglove; and two step-great-grandchildren, Kaitlyn and Braden Christer.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Murphy was preceded in death by a sister, Junice Kalmbach.
Funeral services were held Friday, September 15, at the Albion Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, with Pastor Greg Martin officiating.
Burial was in Albion Memory Gardens.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Emphysema Foundation.
September 27, 2000
Shannon Rowe
Shannon Rowe, 56, of Coldwater, died Friday, September 22, 2000, at the Community Health Center of Branch County, Coldwater.
Mr. Rowe was born June 8,1944, in Garrett, Kentucky, to James and Ruth (Hicks) Rowe. He married Linda Sines February 24, 1983 and she survives.
Mr. Rowe was a U.S. Army veteran, serving in Germany and Vietnam. An area industrialist, entrepreneur and businessman, Mr. Rowe was the owner and operator of Oneway Plastics in Reading and Edon, Ohio. He was also the owner of J.E.M.S. of Litchfield, Shannon's Classics of Jonesville, Shannon & Associates of Jonesville, Allen's Excavating, co-owner of Arnold's Racing Engines, and former owner of North Adams Molds.
Mr. Rowe was a member of the Eagles Lodge in Jonesville, Hillsdale Moose Lodge, Hillsdale Elks Lodge, Quincy American Legion, Hillsdale Chamber of Commerce and the Jonesville Athletic Boosters. He loved classic cars.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Rowe is survived by three stepchildren, C. Matthew Bearden and Andrew D. Bearden, both of Jonesville, and Paul A. Bearden of Litchfield; four sisters, Florence Barnett and Rosalee (Nay) Allen, both of Litchfield, Earline Carothers of Kalamazoo, and Janette "Susie" (Butch) Carothers of Litchfield; five brothers, Robert (Ruth) Rowe of Mosherville, Willard (Mary) Rowe of Marion, Indiana, Jerry (Margaret) Rowe of Waterloo, Iowa, Haskell (Cheryl) Nichols of Jonesville, and James "Rodney" (Kris) Nichols of Chesapeake, Virginia.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, two half sisters and his stepfather.
Funeral services were Monday at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with Al Foust and Gary Freese officiating. Interment followed at Mount Hope Cemetery, Litchfield.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Cancer Center of Community Health Center of Branch County or the Shannon Rowe Tool & Die Memorial Scholarship Fund, in care of Southern Michigan Bank and Trust.
October 4, 2000
Myrtle M. Anderson
Myrtle M. Anderson, 73, of Coldwater, died Friday, September 29, 2000, at Community Health Center of Branch County in Coldwater.
Mrs. Anderson was born April 15, 1927, in Albion, to Henry A.F and Myrtle Alice (DeForest) Kreger. She married on February 23, 1946, in Albion. The marriage ended in divorce.
Mrs. Anderson was a former resident of the Albion and Homer area. She graduated from Washington Gardner High School in 1945. She enjoyed bowling, cards, sewing and crocheting. She also enjoyed her family.
Survivors include a son, Rex Anderson of Homer; two daughters, Linda (Curt) Shaffer of Tekonsha and Janet Seiler of Battle Creek; five grandchildren; and a sister, Dorothy Kellogg of Homer.
She was preceded in death by two sisters, Gladys Wirebaugh and Mildred Smith.
A memorial service was held Tuesday, October 3, at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, with the Rev. James Brazell officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association.
Arlene D. Anderson
Arlene D. Anderson, 87, of Litchfield, died Thursday, September 28, 2000, at Arbor Hospice in Ann Arbor.
Mrs. Anderson was horn December 30, 1912, in Butler Township, to Artemus and Alta (Wolfe) Crandall. She graduated from Litchfield High School and attended Litchfield United Methodist Church.
She married Floyd Anderson, and he preceded her in death in 1980. Mrs. Anderson at one time was employed at Litchfield Dairy.
Survivors include two sons, Brett (Brenda) Anderson of Hillsdale and Greg Anderson; three sisters, Iowa Darling of Wills, Aura O'Mealy of Marshall, and Helen (Wayne) VanPatten of Jonesville; two brothers, Carl (Barbara) Crandell and Loren (Bernita) Crandall, all of Litchfield; and two grandchildren, Branden and Bree Anderson.
She was preceded in death by a sister.
Funeral services were Monday, October 2, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating. Interment was in Mt Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
Memorial contributions may be made to Arbor Hospice of Ann Arbor or Hospice of Hillsdale County.
Morris Watson
Morris Watson, 65, of Jackson, died Sunday, October 1, 2000, at Jackson County Medical Care Facility following a long illness.
Mr. Watson was born August 14, 1935, in Carver, Kentucky, to Dudley and Malla (Bailey) Watson. He grew up in the Homer area and moved to Jackson in 1964. He had been employed by Clark Equipment Company in Jackson.
In July of 1964, he married the former Madeline Millet. She survives.
Mr. Watson was a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Jackson. He enjoyed playing the guitar and singing.
In addition to his wife, survivors include a daughter, Gail Marie Watson of Jackson; a grandson, Kody Lee Watson of Jackson; sisters, Ivory Mink of Lafayette, Indiana, Dee Kelley of Pleasant Lake, and Inez Koyl of Olivet
Funeral services were held Tuesday, October 3, at the Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home in Marshall. Interment followed in Lee Center Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Diabetes Association. Assistance with memorials is available at the funeral home.
October 11, 2000
Lennagene Stratton
Lennagene Stratton, 82, of Marquette, died Saturday, September 23, 2000, at the Norlite Nursing Center in Marquette following a lengthy illness.
Mrs. Stratton was born December 27, 1917, in Homer, to Don and Kathryn (Whitcomb) Rossman, and attended Homer High School. She received her degrees from Michigan State University and Central Michigan University, obtaining her master's in education from Michigan State University.
She taught in rural schools in Hillsdale and Calhoun counties, and served as supervisor of rural teachers in St. Clair County for several years. Following World War II she moved to Japan to teach children of U.S. occupational forces. Later, she became principal of the Palms Elementary School in St. Clair County.
In 1957, she married Robert E. Stratton in Marysville. He survives. The couple moved to the Upper Peninsula in 1975, residing in Negaunee, Rockland and Marquette.
In addition to her husband, survivors include a sister, Priscilla Osborn of Defiance, Ohio; a brother, Darwin (Emmagene) Rossman of Charlottesville, Virginia; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a brother Edward Rossman.
Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held in the future at Fassbender Funeral Home in Marquette at a later date.
October 18, 2000
Clare C. Saunders
Clare C. Saunders, 80, of Jackson, died Wednesday, October 11, 2000, at Foote Hospital in Jackson.
Mr. Saunders was born June 24, 1920, in Clarendon Township, to Charles and Stella (Pickett) Saunders. He first married June L. Hulbert, then married Wanda Myers in Litchfield. She survives.
Mr. Saunders was a graduate of Homer High School, and went on to serve in the Army during World War II. He was a lifetime member of the Carrick-Jarosz VFW Post 9411. After the service, he worked for Jacobson's for five years as a display manager. Then he worked for Rackley Shoes as store manager for 16 years. He later became a real estate broker and owned Saunders Real Estate in Jackson.
Mr. Saunders and his wife, Wanda, wintered in Arizona since 1986, where he was active in a theater group. He also enjoyed dancing and helping other people, and caring for stray animals.
In addition to his wife, survivors include three daughters, Deborah Glandorf of Jackson, Dawn Salas of Arizona and Darcy A. Saunders of Washington D.C.; a son, Kevin C. Saunders of Grand Rapids; 14 grandchildren; two great-granddaughters; a stepdaughter, Debra (Timothy) Grau of Marion, Kentucky; two stepsons, Harold (Shelley) Jones of Jackson and Garry (Janet) Jones of Frostproof, Florida; a son-in-law, Dan Glandorf of Jackson; and two sisters, Mildred (Carl) Seifert of Homer and Marybelle (Harold) Austin of Jackson.
Funeral services were held Saturday, October 14, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield with the Rev. Mike Murray officiating. Funeral arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd. Interment was in Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Cascades Humane Society.
Grace Kelly Crane
Grace Kelly Crane, infant daughter of Jeffery and Amy (Ladd) Crane, of Homer, was stillborn Friday, October 13, 2000, at Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall.
Other survivors include two sisters, Abbi and Sara Hunt of Homer; two brothers, Justin and Daniel Hunt of Homer; grandparents, Jack and Cindy Ladd of Sherwood and Lowell and Denise Crane of Coldwater; great-grandparents, Eileen Ladd of Homer, Marshall Sebalg of Coldwater and Geraldine Bailey of Florida.
Graveside services were held Monday, October 16, at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Litchfield. Funeral arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd of George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.
Graciela Teresa Edmonds
Graciela Teresa Edmonds, infant daughter of Jermaine L. and Erika A. (Gutierrez) Edmonds, of Albion, was stillborn Saturday, October 14, 2000, at Foote Hospital in Jackson.
Other survivors include grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. LeRoy Smith of Albion, and Mr. and Mrs. Fidel (Grace) Gutierrez of Homer; great-grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. LeRoy Amos of Jackson and Edna Edmonds of Albion; and many uncles and aunts.
Graveside services were held Tuesday, October 17, at Riverside Cemetery in Albion.
Funeral arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion.
October 25, 2000
Robert D. Knauer
Robert D. Knauer, 69, of Litchfield, died Monday, October 16, 2000, at the Veterans Hospital in Battle Creek.
Mr. Knauer was born October 3, 1931, in Jackson County, to Bill and Shirley Knauer. He married Maxine Gardner in 1973. She survives.
Mr. Knauer graduated from Concord High School in 1950. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and was a founding member of the Big 9 Sportsman's Club of Concord. He was self-employed installing windows and siding.
In addition to his wife, survivors include five children, Julie, Jeane, Carl, Ellen and James; a stepdaughter, Connie Smith of Hanover; a stepson, Rick Gardner of Coldwater; a step granddaughter, Nicole Smith; numerous other grandchildren; and his stepmother, Joyce Knauer of Concord.
A sister, Marge, preceded him in death.
A memorial service was held Monday, October 23, at the Big 9 Sportsman's Club in Concord, with the Rev. Dale Hartwig officiating.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.
Memorials are suggested to the family.
Mark Phillip Justice
Mark Phillip Justice, 46, of Albion, died Wednesday, October 18, 2000, at Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall.
Mr. Justice was born June 8, 1954, in Concord, to Virgil and Chelcie (Hackworth) Justice.
He started working at an early age at the family-owned service station and held various other positions, including working at the Pony Express, driving the elder bus in Albion, and was employed at Walker Manufacturing for 10 years. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and loved sailing, spending time with his family, designing things or processes, reading, laughing and being helpful to others.
Survivors include his mother, Chelcie Justice of Albion; two brothers, David (Deborah) Justice of North Carolina and Larry (Shirley) Justice of Texas; a sister, Sandra Justice of Albion; two stepsons, Rusty Morgan of Eaton Rapids and Charlten Morgan of Albion; a stepdaughter, Rhonda Morgan of Lansing; three step grandchildren, Andrew Morgan of Jackson, Savannah Morgan of Eaton Rapids and Gallas Morgan of Albion; and several nieces, nephews, great-nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father Virgil; a brother, Steven; his grandparents; and several aunts and uncles.
Funeral services were held Saturday, October 21, at Christ Apostolic Church in Albion, with the Rev. David Trammell officiating. Interment was in Cook's Prairie Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, Albion.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Christ Apostolic Church.
November 1, 2000
Hugh Melville Simmons
Hugh Melville Simmons, 88, of Holland, died Tuesday, October 24, 2000, at his residence.
Mr. Simmons was born April 14, 1912, in Clarendon Township, to Hugh Thurston and Merta (Stiles) Simmons. He married Evelyn Warley in Pulaski in 1935. She survives.
Mr. Simmons graduated from Homer High School in 1929. He was an industrial engineer with Union Steel of Albion for 43 years. He was a member of the United Methodist Church of Holland, president of the West Michigan Chapter of Industrial Management Society, a charter member of the Barbershop Society of Albion, and a former member of the Elks. Mr. Simmons was an avid fisherman and also enjoyed boating and square dancing.
In addition to his wife, survivors include two sons, Bob (Christine) Simmons and Dick (Ruthann) Simmons of Holland, seven grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services were held Friday, October 27, at the Homer United Methodist Church, with Rev. Mark Mitchell officiating. Interment was at the Cook's Prairie Cemetery.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 4, at 2 p.m. at the Fountain View Retirement Village in Holland.
Funeral arrangements were handled by the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Hospice of Holland or the Homer Library.
November 8, 2000
Helen Irene Froh
Helen Irene Froh, 82, of Jonesville, died October 30, 2000, at The Laurels of Coldwater.
Mrs. Froh was born August 13, 1918, in Burlington, to James and Viola (Stuck) Guilford. She married Frederick (Bill) William Froh in 1939. He preceded her in death in 1982.
Mrs. Froh attended Marshall High School. She was a member of Countryside Bible Church, where she was a member of The Not-So-Young Group. She enjoyed flowers, crocheting, needlework and community involvement.
Survivors include four sisters, Shirley Wood of Albion, Doris Willowbrandt, Gladys Clark and Ethel Castillo all of Marshall, and two brothers, Lorence Guilford of Lutz, Florida, and George Guilford of Charlotte.
She was preceded in death by two brothers, Frank and Edward, and three sisters, Georgia Guilford, Betty Mills and Joanne Neblo.
Funeral services were held Friday at the Countryside Bible Church in Jonesville, with Rev. John Little officiating. Interment followed at Mt. Hope cemetery. The George White Funeral Home in Litchfield handled the arrangements.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Countryside Bible Church.
Robert Allen Siegrist
Robert Allen Siegrist, 74, of Sun City Center, Florida, died Sunday, October 29, 2000, at his residence.
Mr. Siegrist was born in Bay City and moved to the Sun City Center area in 1980.
He was a retired attorney, member of the Michigan and American Bar Associations, Trial Lawyers Associations, a WW II U.S. Army Veteran and a Baptist.
He is survived by his wife, Lori McDowell; sons, Robert Jr. of Gibsonton, Florida, and Joshua A. of Rodney; daughters, JoDee Teller of DeLand, Florida, Janene Shaw of Litchfield, Tammy Wagner of Parma and Martha Ann Siegrist of Eaton Rapids; a brother Edward Siegrist of Traverse City; sisters Thelma Priser of Punta Gorda, Florida, Marion Kerr of Bay City, Betty Naffie of Manistee and Marie Case of Lansing; 10 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
Graveside services were held Monday, November 6, at the Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Lewers Funeral Home in Ruskin, Florida, handled the arrangements.
Robert J. Mestdagh
Robert J. Mestdagh, 77, of Homer, died Thursday, November 2, 2000, at the Battle Creek Health System.
Mr. Mestdagh was born March 8, 1923, in Jackson, to Hector and Emilie A. (Speybrouch) Mestdagh. He married Virginia Vancalbergh on June 12, 1948, and she survives.
Mr. Mestdagh was a farmer since the age of six. He also worked at McGraw Edison in Albion for 10 years and retired in 1985 from Airmasters of Jackson.
He was a member of St. John Catholic Church. He and his wife enjoyed camping and were members of Rainbow Chasers #256. Mr. Mestdagh also enjoyed woodworking, fishing, hunting and evening drives watching for deer.
Also surviving are three sons, Robert (Ruth) Mestdagh, Roger (Joyce) Mestdagh and Rodney (Jill) Mestdagh, all of Homer; a brother, Edward (Lee) Mestdagh of Marshall; seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Kenneth, and a sister, Mary.
Funeral services were held Monday, November 6, at St. John's Catholic Church in Albion, with Father Gordon Greene officiating. Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Battle Creek Kidney Dialyses Unit or Lifespan.
Arrangements were made by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion.
Barry A. Kandell
Barry A. Kandell, 49, of Concord, died Friday, November 3, 2000, at his home.
Mr. Kandell was born May 10, 1951, in Jackson, to Martin and Dorothy (Schemmel) Kandell. He earned his master's degree at Michigan Tech. He was employed as a metallurgist at Walker Manufacturing in Litchfield, Lindberg Heat Treat in Lansing and Kline Tool Co. in Jonesville. He attended Redeemer Lutheran Church in Jackson.
Survivors include his mother, Dorothy Kandell of Litchfield; a brother, Martin (Pat) Kandell of Homer; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Neela Kandell.
Graveside services will be held Friday, November 10, at East Rives Cemetery in Jackson County.
Funeral arrangements were handled by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion.
Viola G. Cooper
Viola G. Cooper, 90, longtime Homer/Albion area resident, died Sunday, November 5, 2000, at the Albion Care Center.
Mrs. Cooper was born April 5, 1910, in Jackson, to Emanuel and Susie (Peters) Truax. She was employed at Corning Glass for 15 years.
Mrs. Cooper was formerly a member of the Albion Moose Lodge and she enjoyed reading, camping, sewing and spending time with her family.
Survivors include three daughters, Jean Peters and Mary Jane Hayes of Albion, and Linda Farrel of Gladstone; three sons, Howard C. Worden of Sheridan, Harry D. Worden of Albion and F. Bruce Worden of Marshall; a sister, Florence Woods of Homer; a brother, Clayton Truax of Homer; and several grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by two husbands, Floyd Worden in 1977 and Lennis Cooper in 1991; a daughter, Joyce Worden; three brothers, Louie, Bill and Buster Truax; and three sisters, Lena Sprague, Ladonna Riker and Alletta Whalen.
Graveside services will be Thursday, November 9, at 1 p.m., at Riverside Cemetery in Albion. There will be no visitation.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Children's International.
Howard G. Gatlin
Howard G. Gatlin, 59, of Homer, died Thursday, November 2, 2000, at his home.
Mr. Gatlin was born October 26, 1941, in Tremble, Tennessee, to Howard and Lessie (Harrison) Gatlin. He married Edith Southern March 28, 1970, in Grosse Pointe. She survives. He was a resident of Homer for 10 years.
In addition to his wife, survivors include a daughter, Amy Gatlin of Albion; a son, Ray Gatlin of Homer; two grandchildren, Travis and Kristen; a brother, John Gatlin of Alabama; two sisters, Flora May Church of Mississippi and Wanda Maness of Pontiac; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral services were Monday, November 6, at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels. Burial was in Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Ola M. Putnam
Ola M. Putnam, 100, of rural Tekonsha, died Sunday, November 5, 2000, at her home.
Mrs. Putnam was born July 6, 1900, in Butler Township, to John and Majesta (McWain) Pell. She married Harrison O. Putnam September 10, 1919. He preceded her in death in 1972.
Mrs. Putnam graduated from Western County Normal, where she received her teaching certificate. She taught at the Moore Road School in Butler Township.
Mrs. Putnam was a member of Bentley's Corner Farm Bureau, S.E. Clarendon Extension Group, and enjoyed baking, reading, gardening, crossword puzzles, her gift of memory, and especially her family. She was also an avid dancer in her younger days.
Survivors include a daughter-in-law, G. Arlene Rowbotham of Homer; a granddaughter, Mrs. Gary (Linda) Hammontree of Homer; three grandsons, Larry (Lisa) Putnam and Curtis (FiFi) Putnam, both of Virginia, and Leland (Patricia) Putnam of Homer; 10 great-grandchildren; and six great-great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a son, Max Putnam.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, November 8, at 11 a.m. at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with the Rev. James Berger officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in Coldwater.
Memorials are suggested to First Baptist Church of Tekonsha or the Homer Public Library.
November 15, 2000
George Orza Stanley
George Orza Stanley, 58, of Butler Township, died Friday, November 10, 2000, at his home.
Mr. Stanley was born April 10, 1942, in Scott County, Virginia, to John Clinton and Stella (Shoupe) Stanley. He married Joyce Merica June 23, 1977, in Wise, Virginia. She survives him in Quincy.
Mr. Stanley lived in the area for 20 years. He worked in the coal mines in Virginia and also worked in the construction industry. He also drove a semi for a number of years. He enjoyed playing softball and football.
In addition to his wife, survivors include four sons, James Orza Miller of Wise, Virginia, Charles Gaines of Quincy, Mark Gaines of Coldwater and Robbie Gaines of Homer; two daughters, Tina Landis of Litchfield and Sheila Gaines of Coldwater; 11 grandchildren; four brothers, Jake Stanley, Jessie "Knot" Stanley, Donny Stanley and Ray Stanley, all of Virginia; and three sisters, Hazel Hall of Wise, Virginia, Debra Phillips of South Carolina, and Sue Kilgore of Wise, Virginia.
Mr. Stanley was preceded in death by two brothers, Clyde and James.
Funeral services were held Monday, November 13, at the Homer Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels, with the Rev. Clay Watkins officiating.
Burial was in Mt. Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
Bobby Lee Smith, Sr.
Bobby Lee Smith, Sr., 40, of Albion, died Saturday, November 11, 2000, at Trillium Hospital in Albion.
Mr. Smith was born October 13, 1960, in Paintsville, Kentucky, to Helen Jeffrey. He married Brenda Davis in Jackson, April 15, 1988. She survives in Albion.
Mr. Smith was a resident of the Albion and Homer area most of his life. He loved spending time with his family and children; fishing; hunting; cars; football; and basketball. He also enjoyed playing cards and was an active C.B.er.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Smith is survived by three children, Jennifer, Bobby Lee, Jr. and Benjamin; three brothers, Jake (Tracy) Jeffrey of Albion, Tracy (Stacey) Jeffrey of Homer and Freddie Jeffrey of Standish; a sister, Stella (Carl) Hall of Albion; his mother, Helen Jeffrey of Albion; 12 nieces and nephews; and several aunts and uncles.
He was preceded in death by a brother and his grandparents, Glen and Anna Baldridge.
Visitation will be today (Wednesday) from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Albion Chapel of Tidd-Williams Funeral Chapels. The service will follow, also at the funeral home, at 1 p.m., with the Rev. William Steere officiating. Burial will follow in Riverside Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family.
November 22, 2000 -No obituaries
November 29, 2000
Lorraine B. (Lynn) Showers
Lorraine B. (Lynn) Showers, 70, a long-time Homer resident, died Wednesday, November 22, 2000, at her home in Clovis, California.
Mrs. Showers was born June 27, 1930, in Jackson County. She and her first husband, Robert Lynn, (who preceded her in death) owned and operated Lynn Chevrolet in Homer for 25 years. They also owned Lynn Stables and Harness Racing in Homer.
Mrs. Showers was a member of the Monday Club in Homer and was an active member of the American Cancer Society.
Survivors include her husband, Wayne Showers, of Clovis; a daughter, Marla VanderGeest of Clovis; a son, Robert (Lynn Rae) Lynn of Marshall; and two grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a brother, Pete Larkin.
The family will receive friends at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion from noon until 1 p.m. Friday.
A memorial service is scheduled for Friday, December 1, at the funeral home, with the Rev. Larry Fulton officiating.
Memorials are suggested to hospice or the American Cancer Society.
December 6, 2000
Robert L. Eding
Robert L. Eding, 63, formerly of North Adams, passed away Friday, December 1, 2000, in Jackson, Tennessee.
Mr. Eding was born December 5, 1936, in Hillsdale, to Robert H. and Anna Marie (Buelow) Eding.
He served in the U.S. Army. Mr. Eding had been employed at Teku*mseh Products for 17 years and was an avid horseman, training and racing both thoroughbred and harness horses at D.R.C. and Hazel Park Raceway.
Mr. Eding is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Paul (Millie) Van Kampen of Litchfield, Laura Jane Eding of Grand Rapids and Lisa Marie Dieterle of Reading; five sons, Barry Eding of Jackson, Steven Lynn Eding of Belmont, Stanley Lee Eding of St. Petersburg, Florida, Scott Lamar Eding of Hillsdale and Eugene Dwight Eding of Lansing; two sisters, Vianna Huggett of Zephyrhills, Florida, and Sue Ann Greenamyer of Coldwater; and eight grandchildren.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, December 5, at the Diedrich-White Funeral Home in Quincy with the Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating. Interment followed at Allen Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Lung Association.
Harold R. "Whitey" Cortright
Harold R. "Whitey" Cortright, 72, of Homer, passed away Friday, December 1, 2000, at Trillium Hospital, Albion.
He was born March 7, 1928, in Albion, the son of Howard P. and Frieda (Rutz) Cortright. On September 27, 1953, he married Elizabeth Crisp, and she survives.
Mr. Cortright attended Homer High School. He retired in 1990 from Calhoun Foundry, where he had been employed for 39 years. He enjoyed camping and fishing in the Upper Peninsula, and working on his computer. Mr. Cortright was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Albion.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Cortright is survived by two daughters, June M. Cortright and Mrs. Joseph (Gloria) LaForce, both of Battle Creek; a sister, Elaine Ralston of Homer; a brother, William Cortright of Homer; an uncle, Max Cortright of Battle Creek; and two granddaughters, Ambra Jo LaForce and Geneva Rose LaForce, both of Battle Creek.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 9, at 11 a.m., at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion, with Rev. James Waddell officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday from 10 a.m. until the time of service.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Homer Area Community Foundation.
December 13, 2000
Albert V. Vorce
Albert V. Vorce, 60, of Litchfield, died Saturday, December 2, 2000, at Foote Hospital in Jackson.
He was born September 6, 1940, in Coldwater, the son of Victor and Jessie (Mosher) Vorce.
He was employed as a factory worker and enjoyed woodworking, mechanical work and racing (especially sprints).
Mr. Vorce is survived by three sons, Joseph Vorce and William Vorce, both of Homer, and Charles (Nancy) Vorce of New Boston; two daughters, Annette (James) Musgrove of Union City and Barbara Vorce of Litchfield; three sisters, Loretta Gigowski of Coldwater, Anna Burrows of Union City and Jean Crandall of Huntsville, Texas; 15 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Graveside services were held Friday, December 8, at Matteson Cemetery in Bronson, with Rev. Hal Nottingham officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the American Lung Association.
Arrangements were handled by Putnam's of Tekonsha.
David Francis
David Francis, 71, of Litchfield, died Tuesday, December 5, 2000, at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo.
He was born September 25, 1929, in Pike County, Kentucky.
Mr. Francis married Loretta Hampton September 23, 1954. She survives.
He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served during the Korean Conflict. He was retired from Brooks Foundry in Albion.
Other survivors include three daughters, Penny K. Francis, Janet S. Francis and Mrs. Ed (Tess) Dunning, all of Litchfield; four sons, David E. Francis, Paul D. Francis and Curtis Francis, all of Litchfield, and Sam (Michelle) Francis of Homer; three sisters, Mahala Borton of West Virginia, Ellie Church of North Carolina and Lucy Justice of West Virginia; a brother, James A. Francis of West Virginia; and five grandchildren.
Funeral services were held Friday, December 8, 2000, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield with Rev. Clyde Wonders officiating. Interment followed at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Litchfield.
Grace A. Aber
Grace A. Aber, 54, of Battle Creek and formerly of Homer, died Monday, December 4, 2000, at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo.
Mrs. Aber was born September 30, 1946, in Battle Creek, to Richard and Lillion (Mathews) LeBoeuf.
She married Donald G. Aber April 18, 1964. He survives.
Mrs. Aber graduated from Lakeview High School and had been employed for 10 years at Archway Cookie Company and for three years at Big Boy Restaurant in Marshall. She enjoyed sewing, crossword puzzles and spending time with her grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Aber is survived by a son, Steven (Misty) Aber of East Leroy; two daughters, JoLynn (Scott) Winchell of Homer and Gina (Todd) Newton of Montgomery; nine grandchildren, Bryan, Anthony, Kayla and Russell Aber of East Leroy, Rachele, Ryan and Tory Winchell of Homer, and Paige and Kourtney Newton of Montgomery; her father, Richard Leboeuf of Battle Creek; a brother, Douglas LeBoeuf of East Leroy; and her grandmother, Priscilla Burlingame of Battle Creek.
Mrs. Aber was preceded in death by her mother, and daughters Sonya, Robin and Lisa Aber.
Funeral services were held Thursday, December 7, with Rev. Ron K. Kinzel Sr. of Level Park Baptist Church. After cremation there was a private service at Memorial Park Cemetery of Battle Creek.
Richard A. Henry Funeral Home handled the arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made to Binder Park Zoo.
Marylee Petersen
Marylee Petersen, 62, of Clarendon Township, died Friday, December 8, 2000, at her home.
Mrs. Petersen was born December 1, 1938, in Fredonia Township, to Ervin and Laura (Lake) Herrick. She graduated from Homer High School in 1957. She married H. Dale Petersen September 25, 1960, and he survives.
Mrs. Petersen had been an Avon representative for 30 years and had been employed at Wal-Mart in Coldwater for 11 years. She had also worked at Butler Motor Speedway in the concession stand for 15 years and was a member of the Homer Women's Bowling Association. She loved her cats.
In addition to her husband, survivors include two daughters, Carmen Petersen of Wisconsin and Mrs. Charles (Cheryl) McKean of Tekonsha; a son, Terry Petersen of Tekonsha; two sisters, Joyce Fairchild of Homer and Anna O'Conner of Albion; one grandchild, Alexis McKean of Tekonsha; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Funeral services were held Monday, December 11, at the George White Funeral Home in Litchfield, with arrangements made by J. Kevin Tidd.
Interment was in West Clarendon Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Heart Association or the Humane Society.
December 20, 2000
Mary Louise Jones
Mary Louise Jones, 70, of Ypsilanti Township, died Monday, December 11, 2000, at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor.
She was born January 25, 1930, in Ross County, Ohio, the daughter of John W. and Rena (Moore) Yates.
Mrs. Jones was a homemaker. She was a member of the Church of Christ and enjoyed singing, fishing and cooking. She married Ernest Eugene Jones November 18, 1968. He survives.
In addition to her husband, survivors include two daughters, Linda I. Cooper and Judy A. Rice, both of Springfield, Ohio; five sons, Robert (Ramona) Keeton of Springfield, Ohio, Lonnie Lee (Patti) Keeton of West Lake, Ohio, Bill (Debra) Keeton of Ypsilanti, Geno (Brandi) Jones of Ypsilanti and Earl (Terry) Keeton of Springfield, Ohio; six brothers, Paul (Janibe) Yates of Albion, Charles (Louise) Yates of Albion, Clyde (Diane) Yates of Ocala, Florida, Homer (Linda) Yates of Tennessee, Dale (Val) Yates of Allen and Don (Ruby) Yates of Detroit; a sister, Mrs. Roger (Carol) Salyer of Springport; a sister-in-law, Myrtle Yates of Albion; 23 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by two daughters, Janet and Susie; three brothers, John, Arnold and Ben Yates; and one sister, Bernice Skaggs.
Funeral services were held Friday, December 15, 2000, at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion. Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Diabetes Association.
Helen Jeffrey
Helen Jeffrey, 63, of Albion, died Tuesday, December 12, 2000, at her residence.
She was born May 19, 1937, in Paintsville, Kentucky, the daughter of Glen and Anna (Smith) Baldridge. She moved to the Albion area in 1962.
Mrs. Jeffrey was a member of the Apostolic Powerhouse of Jesus Christ, Albion. In 1963 she married Barney Jeffrey. He preceded her in death in 1996.
Survivors include a daughter, Stella Hall of Albion; three sons, Barney "Jake" Jeffrey of Albion, Tracy Jeffrey of Homer, and Freddie Jeffrey of Standish; a sister, Marty Prater of Homer; four brothers, Glen Baldridge, Jr., Danny Baldridge and George "Don" Baldridge, all of Homer and James "Lanny" Baldridge of Parma; and 12 grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by two sons, Bobby and Glen.
Funeral services were held Friday, December 15, 2000, at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion with Rev. Thomas Mann officiating. Interment followed at Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Jeffrey family.
Lyla Bly
Lyla Bly, 75, of West Unity, Ohio, died Wednesday, December 13, 2000, at her residence.
She was born March 10, 1925, the daughter of Marjorie (Hershiser) and Clifton Hartman.
Mrs. Bly married Lewis Bly August 25, 1946. He survives.
She was a 1943 graduate of West Unity High School and a 1946 graduate of Fort Wayne School of Cosmetology.
She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Litchfield from 1952 until 1969, where she was the organist and choir director. She also was involved in many other church activities. She was Past Worthy Matron of the Franklin Eastern Star Chapter #260 in Litchfield.
In 1969 she became a member of the West Unity United Methodist Church where she served as organist, former choir director and a member of the United Methodist Women. She was past president of the American Legion Auxiliary #669 in West Unity, a member of the Women of the Moose #270 in Montpelier, a board member of the Cancer Assistance of Williams County, a Carnation Literary member, a member of the former Merry Mixers Extension Homemaker Club and the Town and Country Garden Club.
In addition to her husband, survivors include three daughters, Mrs. Craig (Teresa) Taylor of Radford, Virginia, Mrs. David (Andrea) JoHantgen of West Unity, Ohio, and Mrs. Rodney (Amy) Nafziger of Archbold, Ohio; two brothers, Ronald (Marcene) Hartment of Astatula, Florida and Neal (Sharon) Hartman of Wolcott, Indiana; a sister, Mrs. Larry (Doris) Nissen of Lake Merry, Florida; five grandchildren, Michelle and Matthew JoHantgen, Kiley Nafziger, Mitchell and Bethany Taylor; and nieces and nephews.
Services were held Saturday, December 16, 2000, in the West Unity Methodist Church with Rev. Sue Babb officiating. The family then had graveside services at Floral Grove Cemetery, West Unity.
Memorial contributions may be made to Cancer Assistance of Williams County, Community Hospitals of Williams County, Hospice or the United Methodist Church.
Arrangements were made by Hollingshead Funeral Home in West Unity.
Betty L. Redmond
Betty L. Redmond, 72, of Homer, died Thursday, December 14, 2000, at Foote Hospital in Jackson.
Mrs. Redmond was born July 5, 1928, to Mack and Wava McCoy. She married Harold Redmond. He preceded her in death in 1996.
She lived in Homer for the last 22 years after moving from Jackson. Mr. Redmond loved flower gardening and her pets.
Survivors include a daughter, Christine Ashley of Jackson; a stepson, William Randolf of Alabama; three grandchildren, Mr. and Mrs. Kevin (Tammy) Collins of Homer, Mr. and Mrs. Keith (Teri) O'Daniel of Minnesota, and Sandy Reeser of Jackson; and seven great-grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Redmond was preceded in death by a brother, Lou Maxwell.
Funeral services were held Monday, December 18, 2000, at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion. Interment followed in Albion Memory Gardens.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Kidney Foundation.
Helen A. Tesch
Helen A. Tesch, 86, a lifelong Homer resident, died Monday, December 18, 2000, at Tendercare in Marshall.
Mrs. Tesch was born May 24, 1914, in Homer Township, to Walter J. and Grace (Downs) Mansfield. She married Theodore F. Tesch April 2, 1936. He preceded her in death in 1981.
Mrs. Tesch was employed for 20 years as a receptionist at the Westbrook-Tidd Funeral Home in Homer. She was a past president of the American Legion Auxiliary, past president and secretary of the Bouton Aid Society, a life member of the VFW Auxiliary, a member of the Homer Senior Citizens Group and Homer United Methodist Church.
Survivors include two sisters, Mrs. Floyd (Ethel) Hazel of Marshall and Mrs. Rex (Clarabelle) Katz of Cereso; a brother, Robert J. Mansfield of Florida; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband, Mrs. Tesch was preceded in death by two sisters, Mrs. Howard (Louise) Dunham, and Ruth Ella Willaert; and a brother, Gerald Mansfield.
Visitation will be today (Wednesday) from 2-4 p.m. and from 6-8 p.m. at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home in Albion.
Funeral services will be Thursday, December 21, 2000, at 1 p.m. at the funeral home with the Rev. Mark Mitchell officiating.
Interment will be in Fairview Cemetery in Homer.
Memorials are suggested to the Homer United Methodist Church of the Homer Senior Citizens Group.
December 27, 2000 - No obits
