Edna Ann (Jorae) Martin
Edna Ann Martin, age 51, died peacefully at Sparrow Hospice House, St Lawrence Campus in Lansing, Michigan the evening of July 7, 2009 after six years living with Inflammatory Breast Cancer.
Born in St. John’s, Michigan on October 20, 1957, Edna was the second youngest of thirteen children of Eugene and Bernice (Plunkett) Jorae. She was baptized at St. Joseph Church in St Johns, Michigan. Edna attended St. Joseph’s Elementary School in St. Johns and Sabin Elementary School in Traverse City, Michigan. She attended St. Francis Central High School, Traverse City, Michigan, graduating in 1976. That fall she made the decision to join the United States Air force and served as a Heating Systems Specialist at Malmstrom AFB in Montana. She lived in Chillicothe, Ohio for most of her adult life. Edna lived her life for her children and grandchildren. She was, employed by the Wolford Family, owners of the Chillicothe Marathon, who gave Edna loving support. Edna had the advantage of Veterans Administration in Chillicothe and Cincinnati’s wonderful caring staff until she failed to respond to treatment. Since March, Edna lived in Lansing, Michigan. She was a member of St Peter Catholic Church in Chillicothe and Immaculate Heart of Mary in Lansing, Michigan.
Before leaving the Air Force, Edna was married to Charles Martin and had two children from that union. Her daughter, Valerie Dawn Cornelison (Brian) and grandchildren, Kristopher Martin, Zachary Leggett, Markus Justice, Damien Cornelison, and Devri Cornelison of Chillicothe, Ohio. Her son, Brian Eugene Martin (Tia) and grandson, Kannon Stanley Martin of Chillicothe, Ohio.
Edna siblings include: Brother Anthony Jorae (deceased), Gail Jorae of Lansing, Michigan, Ruth Babcock (Charles) of Sterling Hts, Michigan, Rita Engardio (Richard) of Lansing, Michigan, Pat Jorae (Carol (deceased)) of Traverse City, Michigan, Mary Jorae of Lansing, Michigan, Gloria Ann Jorae (deceased), Margaret Jorae (deceased), Michael Jorae of Traverse City, Michigan, John Jorae of Buckley, Michigan, Dennis Jorae of Santa Barbara, California and Jane Hilden (Mark) of Los Osos, California. Edna also leaves many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins and good friends.
Memorial Service will be held at Chillicothe Worship Center, 901 Toledo St, in Chillicothe, Ohio at 11:00 am on July 18, 2009 and burial at Mt Olivet Cemetery in Laingsburg, Michigan.
Warren Schwarz
Warren Schwarz St. Johns Age 62, beloved husband, father, brother and friend passed through the gates of heaven on July 11, 2009. Warren grew up working on the family orchard farm in Watervliet, Michigan. He attended Lake Michigan Community College where he met the love of his life, Karen. Together they went on to study at Michigan State University and wed in March of 1969. Together Warren and Karen adventured into buying and restoring an antique home as well as bringing three children into the world. Warren was a very gifted and talented man. He had a huge repertoire of knowledge; about everything from gardening, to home projects, to fixing cars and repairing all farm equipment. He was a continuous source of answers to his family and friends. Most importantly and most memorable was Warren’s love and dedication to his family. His happiest moments were traveling nearly every summer, tailgating at Spartan games with dear friends and playing with his grandchildren. His humor and quick wit will continue to bring smiles to the faces of all who loved him. Warren was loved dearly and will be missed.
He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Karen Schwarz; three children, Cress and husband Warner Smith, of Traverse City, John and wife DeAnn Schwarz, of Lansing, and Amanda Schwarz, of Kalamazoo; three grandchildren, Morgan, Evelyn, and Jonathan; two sisters, Donna and husband Merton Dell, Denise and husband Jeffrey Costello; and brother in-law Gordon Dell. He was preceded in death by his parents Frederick and Helena Schwarz, and sister Dianna Dell.
A graveside service will be held at 2:00 on Friday, July 17 at Mt. Rest Cemetery, St. Johns. The family will receive friends and family at the Knights of Columbus Hall immediately following services. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Diabetes Association.
Margaret C. Wyrick
Margaret C. Wyrick, 92 of Ovid died Saturday, July 12, 2009. Margaret was born May 25, 1917 in Victor Twp. the daughter of George and Nona (Bartlett) Ashley. She graduated from St. Johns High School, County Normal and received her Bachelors Degree in Teaching from M.S.U. in 1969. She taught at Grove School, Cedar Lake School, Service School, Teresa Merrill in St. Johns and East Olive School. She retired in 1982. She married Kenneth Wyrick in 1940. He preceded her in death on May 12, 2003. Margaret was a member of Shepardsville U.M. Church, MARSP, Eastern Stars, MSU Alumni, Farm Bureau and served as Secy/Treas of South Ovid Cemetery for over 40 years. Margaret was also known as one of “The Apple Ladies” at Wyrick orchard.
She is survived by sons David (Irene) Wyrick of Byron, MI, and Ken (Sandy) Wyrick of Ovid; daughters Shirley (Tom) Willard of Sterling Hts, MI and Gloria (Don) Herrington of St. Johns, MI; grandchildren, John, Kyle, Mark, Ashley, Emma, McKenzie Wyrick, Matthew and Katie Herrington, Isaak Willard, Luke (Jessica) Cole and great grandson Renin Cole. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sisters infant Elizabeth and Dorothy Ashley.
Funeral services will be held at Keck-Coleman Funeral Home, St. Johns on Thursday, July 16, 2009 at 11:00 A.M. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday, July 14, 2009, 5-8 P.M. and Wednesday, July 15, 2-8 P.M.
Edith Elizabeth Stevenson
Edith Elizabeth Stevenson, age 92, of St. Johns, MI died on Sunday, July 12th, 2009 at Clinton Memorial Hospital in St. Johns, MI. Funeral Services will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes St. Johns Chapel on Wednesday, July 15th at 11:00 A.M. Burial will take place at Collier Cemetery in Gratiot County, Michigan. Pastor Willie Iwankiw will officiate. Visitation will be held on Monday from 6-8 PM. and also on Tuesday, July 14, 2009 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. at Smith Family Funeral Homes St. Johns Chapel.
Edith was born in Campbell Twp., Michigan on October 9, 1916, the daughter of James L. and Ethel L. (Neeb) Birman. She graduated from Clarksville High School. She was married to Gaylord F. Stevenson. He preceded her in death on Aug. 7, 2000. She resided most of her life in St. Johns. Edith enjoyed gardening and bird watching. Most of all, she loved spending time with her children and grandchildren and reading her Bible. She was a member of St. Johns Seventh-day Adventist Church.
She is survived by a son Gaylon and Joyce Stevenson of Ithaca, MI; daughter Norma and Carl Kilpatrick of Ashley, MI; 7 Grandchildren Monty and Becky Kilpatrick of St.Johns, MI, Mindi and David Chamberlain of Dearborn, MI, Bradley and Debi Stevenson of Port Orchard, WA, Byron and Quyen Stevenson of Bellevue, WA, Keisha Stevenson of Redmond, WA, Jennifer Azelton of Dalton, GA, and Kimberly Azelton of Ithaca, MI; 6 Great Grandchildren Zakery Kilpatrick, Mya Chamberlain, Dakota Stevenson, Dylan Stevenson, Mark Stevenson, Matthew Stevenson, and a sister Doris Haller of Saranac, MI. She was preceded in death by her parents James and Ethel Birman, husband Gaylord Stevenson, and a sister Lucille Brauher from Clarksville, MI.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to 3ABN or Seventh-day Adventist Church in St. Johns. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes St. Johns Chapel St. Johns, Michigan.
Sharleen Kapral
Sharleen Kapral passed away July 11, 2009 at the age of 70, in St. Johns, Michigan. Sharleen was born on April 7, 1939 in Sheridan, Michigan, the daughter of John and Helen (Prochazka) Kapral. She was a member of St. Joseph Parish in Pewamo, Michigan and the Alter Society. Sharleen was a retired Manager for the State Department of Health.
Surviving her is her daughter, Janine Alsbrooks of Flagstaff, AZ, and son, Chris Bower of Pewamo. Also surviving her are her grandchildren, Rachel and Lance Bower, Jack Alsbrooks and Riley Ewalt; brothers, Bill (Nina) Kapral, Jerry (Carol) Kapral and sister-in-law, Dorothy Kapral. Sharleen was preceded in death by her parents, brother, John Kapral and son-in-law, Mike Alsbrooks.
Funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Pewamo on Wednesday, July 15 at 10:30 A.M., burial at St. Joseph Cemetery with The Rev. Fr. Charlon Mason officiating. Family will receive friends 7-9 p.m. on Monday evening and from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Tuesday at the Goerge Chapel of the Osgood Funeral Homes in Fowler, with rosaries prayed at 8 p.m. on Monday and 3 p.m. on Tuesday with a vigil at 8 p.m. on Tuesday evening. Sympathy may be expressed in the form of memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society. Arrangements are being made through the Osgood Funeral Homes.
Wanda June Foreback
Wanda June Foreback, age 63, of Elsie, MI died Friday, July 10, 2009 at her home.
Funeral Services will be held at Elsie United Methodist Church Elsie, MI on Monday, July 13, 2009 at 11:00 A.M., Pastor Edwin Snook will officiate with burial at Riverside Cemetery, Elsie, MI. Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 12, 2009 from 2-8 P.M. with family present 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. at Smith Family Funeral Homes, Elsie Chapel.
Wanda was born in Stratford, OK on September 4, 1945, the daughter of Rex Leelis and Lynden Mildred (Griffin) Jackson. Wanda married Robert Foreback on January 31, 1965 in Santa Ana, California. Wanda was a first grade teacher for Ovid Elsie Public Schools, retiring after 25 years of service. She enjoyed golfing and along with her husband Bob, golfed in all 50 states and 2 Canadian Provinces and Mexico. She was a MSU season basketball ticket holder and enjoyed going to the games. Wanda was the official score keeper for years at all the O-E Basketball games, side by side with her husband as he coached. She loved traveling the country with Bob, camping and looking for deer. She was an avid baseball fan and loved the Tigers, Angels and Dodgers. Her favorite thing was spending time with her grandsons. She was a member of Elsie United Methodist Church.
She is survived by her husband Robert Foreback of Elsie, MI, daughter Vicki Foreback of St. Johns, MI, son Robert and Jami Foreback of Grand Blanc, MI, 2 grandsons; Max and Jack, 2 sisters; Sue and Garry Slate of Garden Grove, CA, Linda and James Kilman of Las Vegas, NV, and brother Larry and Diane Jackson of Riverside, CA. She was predeceased by her parents.
Memorials may be made to the O-E Community Foundation, Athletic Fund or American Cancer Society. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes Elsie Chapel Elsie, Michigan.
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For obituaries published before January, 2009 please click here.
At the bottom of that page you will find an index to obituaries dating back to July, 1989.
Douglas W. Alward, 39, died July 6, 2009 as a result of a traffic accident. Doug was born October 22, 1969 the son of Wayne l. and Nancy (Miller) Alward. Doug graduated from Madison High School in Indiana and Lansing Community College for 2 years. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and for the last 10 years was a deputy with the Clinton County Sheriff Department. On August 7, 1999 he married Alicen Brodeur in DeWitt, MI. Doug was a member of the Wart Hogs Motorcycle club.
Clarence Joseph Blasen, age 93, of Ovid, Michigan died Monday, July 6, 2009 at Hospice House of Mid-Michigan, Lansing, Michigan. 
Christopher R. Huntoon, 24 of rural St. Johns, died unexpectedly July 4, 2009. He is now at peace. Christopher was born April 21, 1985 the son of Lyle and Angela (Chiunti) Huntoon. He received his diploma from St. Johns High School. Chris worked at F. C. Mason Co., enjoyed Detroit Redwings, Detroit Tigers and U of M. football.
A loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and a man of profound Christian faith, Glenn Deisler will be remembered for his gentleness, honesty, loving heart, sense of humor, strength, and integrity. He was a true and faithful friend to all who knew him. 
Connor Michael Moinet, precious 5 month old son of Chad M. and Cynthia A. (Rhode) Moinet of St. Johns, MI, went to be with the angels Monday, June 29, 2009. Connor was born January 22, 2009 in Lansing along with his twin sister, Chelsea Ann.
Alice L. Love, 97 of rural Laingsburg MI, died Sunday, June 28, 2009 at Ovid Healthcare Center. Alice was born on March 13, 1912 in Lansing, MI the daughter of Paul and Grace (Thomas) Remus. She graduated from Eastern High School in 1930. On December 23, 1933 she married Verlin Love. Alice loved gardening, reading, needle work, playing cards and especially her family.
John Strachota, Jr., age 74, of Elsie, Michigan died Friday, June 26th, 2009 at Ingham Regional Medical Center , Lansing, Michigan. 
Madelyn A. Warren, age 95, of rural Maple Rapids, went home to be with her precious Lord and Savior on Tuesday, June 23, 2009 from Masonic Pathways in Alma, Michigan. She was born February 1, 1914 to Herman and Alma (Roberts) Smith in Lebanon Township, Clinton County, Michigan.
Norbert J. Schrauben, age 89, of St. Johns passed away June 24, 2009. He was born in Riley Twp., on June 16, 1920, the son of Christopher Schrauben and Bernita (Pung) Schrauben-Cook. He was the co-owner and manager of Rayborn True Value Hardware in Belding, MI, retiring in 1982 after 27 years. Norbert married Florence Kiskey in Belding on December 6, 1944, and she preceded him in death in 1982. He was a member of both St. Joseph Catholic Church in Belding and St. Joseph Catholic Church in St. Johns, a past member of the Belding Chamber of Commerce and a Veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard. 
Richard J. Mulder, 80 died Wednesday, June 24, 2009 at his home. He was born Sept. 26, 1928 in Middlebury Twp. The son of Eugene and Ruby (White) Mulder. Richard was a farmer, avid race car driver and fan, member of the Shiawassee Farm Bureau, loved animals and his family. On March 22, 1947 he married Doris Schneider in Ovid, MI.
Wilma J. “Corky” Paradise died Monday, June 22, 2009 at the age of 74. She was born July 22, 1934 in Meadville, Missouri the daughter of Stanley and Dorothy (Selleck) Duncan. Corky was devoted to her family. She gave countless hours in attending activities and caring for her grandchildren, especially her grandson Collin. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and loved golf and playing cards. 
Michael “Mike” D. Pettigrew, age 56, of St. Johns, Michigan died Saturday June 20, 2009 as a result of an auto accident. 
Jackie Dean “Jack” Mudget, age 49, of Greenville, passed away Sunday, June 14, 2009, at home under the loving care of his family and Faith Hospice. The son of Gerald and Mable (Groves) Mudget, he was born on July 28, 1959 in St.Johns. On April 5, 1990, in St. Johns, he married the former Elizabeth Lloydeen Daniels. Jack was self-employed as a drywall contractor and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was preceded in death by his father. 
Deanna Piggott, age 60, of Fowler, passed away Tuesday, June 16, 2009, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Mrs. Piggott was born April 10, 1949 in Lansing, Michigan, the daughter of Walter and Beulah (Bishop) Dick.
Louis George Eisler, died Monday June 15, 2009 at the age of 81. He was born June 20, 1927 in St. Johns the son of Louis and Maude (Grubaugh) Eisler. Louis was a graduate of Rodney B. Wilson High School, in St. Johns, Class of 1946. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. He was an Army veteran, a member and former Commander of VFW Post # 4113, a member of American Legion Post #153 and a member of the St. Johns Honor Guard. Louis was a former board member of the Clinton County Credit Union and a retired Federal Mogul employee. On June 16, 1951 he married Virginia Pung and she survives him. 
Barbara A. Schafer passed away June 14, 2009 at the age of 76. She was born in Ionia, Michigan on September 12, 1932, the daughter of John J. and Beatrice (Stoddard) Howorth. On September 22, 1956, Barbara married Henry Schafer in Pewamo. Barbara was a member of St. Joseph Catholic parish in Pewamo, Michigan. 
Preston E. “Pres” Odette Lansing Age 62, our loving husband, father, and grandfather passed away unexpectedly June 13, 2009 at his home. Born October 25, 1946 in Clio, MI. Preston retired in 2007 as publisher at the Lansing Community Newspapers after 16 years of service. He had also worked in advertising for 20 years at the Gaylord Herald Times. He received his bachelors degree in history from Saginaw Valley State University. He served in Vietnam with the U.S. Army. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, and Great Lakes freighters; but most of all his granddaughters were his pride and joy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Preston Jr. and Margaret Odette. 
Donald W. Thelen Saginaw Twp. Beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather passed away Friday, June 12, 2009 at Covenant HealthCare Harrison Campus. Age 83 years. Son of the late Julius and Rosa (Spitzley) Thelen, Donald was born December 25, 1925 in St. Johns, Michigan. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII and a member of American Legion Post #439 and D.A.V. Donald married Anne K. Kudella, his loving wife of 56 years, on May 9, 1953. She survives him. Don had been employed at Orkin Exterminating as a branch manager for 28 years. He was a member of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church and served as an usher. He was also a member of SS. Peter and Paul Athletic Association and coached Saginaw Township North Little League Baseball. 
James D. Jakus died June 7, 2009 at the age of 69. He was born in Owosso, MI on January 17, 1940, the son of Antonine and Teresa (Hestera) Jakus. Jim married Carolyn Edwards on August 3, 1963 in St. Johns and she survives him. Jim retired from MSU, loved the outdoors, enjoyed camping and cherished the special times with his grandkids. He was preceded in death by his mother, grandparents and mother-in-law, Jeanne Edwards. 
Douglas R. Worrall St. Johns died Friday, June 5, 2009 at the age of 61. He was born September 22, 1947 in St. Johns the son of Richard and Hazel (Epkey) Worrall. Doug was a graduate of Rodney B. Wilson High School in St. Johns, Class of 1966, and is an Army veteran of the Vietnam War. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, was a Little League Baseball coach and was a retired United States Postal Service employee. On September 18, 1970 he married Brenda Barrett and she survives him. 
Craig Lewis Gardner, age 57, of Ovid, MI died Friday, June 5, 2009 at his home. 
Barbara Ingram Bull MacKinnon passed away June 4, 2009, at the age of 80. She was born in Grand Rapids, MI on March 16, 1929, the daughter of Frank L. and Kathleen (Ingram) Bull of Sparta, MI. On May 16, 1953, Barbara married A. Fraser MacKinnon in Sparta, MI. Barbara attended Ward Belmont College in Nashville, TN and graduated from Cornell University with a Bachelors Degree in Home Economics. She was a Registered Dietician, and worked at the University of Michigan Hospital, Ferguson Droste Hospital in Grand Rapids and the Clinton Memorial Hospital in St. Johns. Barbara furthered her education and was a certified instructor in Food Service Management for the Ingham Intermediate School District. 
Lynne Annette Buggs passed away on May 31, 2009 at the age of 50. Lynne was born November 18, 1958 in St. Johns, Michigan the daughter of Gerald and Mary Ellen (Gannon) Buggs. She was a member of St. John Student Center in East Lansing and was a home health nurse for many years. 
Herman J. Schneider of Westphalia, age 82, passed away on May 26, 2009 at his residence. He was born on November 23, 1926 in Fowler the son of Joseph and Antoinette (Rademacher) Schneider. Herman was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus #2890, Portland American Legion, and the U.A.W. Local #1618. He was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Elizabeth; siblings, Mary, John, Sr. Bernardis, Anthony, Esther, Rita, Rose, and Edward. 
Stuart L. Openlander died May 20, 2009. He was born near Wacousta, MI on Easter Sunday, April 7, 1912, the son of Deon (Lee) and Charles Openlander. He married Jean Anderson of St. Johns on May 19, 1936. She preceded him in death as did his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Dale and Caroline Anderson and brother, Herman Openlander. 
Penny Sue Peru, age 33, of Elsie, MI passed away Monday, May 18, 2009 at Ingham Regional Medical Center, Lansing, MI. 
Sharalyn June Monks, age 48, of Elsie, MI passed away Monday, May 18, 2009 at her home. 
Delmont Preston La Fountain went home to be with his Lord, May 15, 2009 at the age of 75. Born in Marshall, MI, July 9, 1933, the son of Clarence and Goldie (Cottle) La Fountain. He was a Carpenter by trade and was a member of the Carpenter’s Union Local #1004. He loved his family, enjoyed fishing, gambling and making others laugh. 
Daale E. Maier, 76, of East Lake, died December 1, 2008 at home. 
Frank J. Karek Jr., 63 of Elsie, MI went peacefully to his heavenly home on May 4, 2009. Frank was born Sept 4, 1945 in St. Johns, the son of Frank J. and Stella (Gurski) Karek. He graduated from St. Johns High School and had worked as store manager for Kroger’s, owned and operated K’s Market in Laingsburg and later was a real estate broker for Caldwell-Banker Real Estate. Frank married Elaine Glanz on August 11, 1994 in Las Vegas. He enjoyed reading the Enquirer paper, Fox News, playing poker, being in Las Vegas and his Exotic Animal Farm, especially his Scottish Highland Cattle.
Margaret Ann McKay of Lansing, born July 13, 1928 to John and Louise Bashore, died May 3, 2009 at the age of 80. Margaret was an avid MSU sports fan. She enjoyed golfing, fishing, and working in her yard. She was an active member of the Dewitt Moose Lodge where she liked playing in euchre tournaments as well as playing shuffle board with her friends. She also enjoyed dancing, polka was her favorite. She cherished spending time with her family, especially when she was able to prepare wonderful meals and baked goods for them. Margaret was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jay F. McKay; brothers, Donald (Leatha), Galen (Lorine), Max R. (Alma), John Jr. (Elaine); and her sister, Jean Bashore. 
Dennis LeVeck died Friday, May 1, 2009, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, at the age of 55. He was born June 13, 1953 in Lansing, Michigan the son of Clarence and Evelyn (Pierce) LeVeck. Dennis was a graduate of St. Johns High School, Class of 1972, was an avid golfer and sports fan, especially the MSU Spartans and any of the professional Detroit teams. Dennis is the owner/operator of LeVeck’s Small Engine Sales and Service which he opened in the spring of 1983. On November 24, 1973 he married Suzanne Horcha in Owosso, Michigan and she survives him. 
Richard “Rick” M. Cascaddan, age 67, of Ashley, MI died Wednesday, April 29, 2009 in Gratiot County, Michigan.
Bernice I. Coleman, age 92, of Elsie, MI died Monday, April 27, 2009 at Ovid Healthcare Center, Ovid, Michigan. 
Judith Keyes Jones of St. Johns, Michigan died Saturday, April 25, 2009 at the age of 56. She was born March 12, 1953 in St. Johns the daughter of Ivan and Hazel (Ennis) Keyes. Judy was a graduate of St. Johns High School, Class of 1971 and a retired data processor for the State of Michigan. On December 1, 1984 she married Kenneth Jones and he survives her. 
Alma Marie Green, age 88, of Loveland, Colorado, formerly of St. Johns, MI entered her heavenly home April 23, 2009. Alma was a Registered Nurse, graduating from Saint Mary’s Healthcare Nursing School in Grand Rapids, MI. She and Tim traveled extensively throughout the United States and abroad, particularly in Ireland. She was preceded in death by her husband, Judge Timothy M. Green, daughter Ellen Green, and her parents Leonard and Irene Weber of Higgins Lake, MI. 
Raymond Henry Irvin Meehling, age 76, of Eureka, MI died Thursday, April 23, 2009 at Spectrum Health System, Grand Rapids, MI. 
Perry H. Fillmore, age 65, of Elsie, MI passed away Wednesday, April 22, 2009 at Memorial Healthcare, Owosso, MI. 
Donald E. Evitts, loving son, brother, uncle and friend, died suddenly Wednesday, April 22, 2009 at the age of 55. He was born October 2, 1953 in St. Johns, the son of Marvin and Ellomae (Cassady) Evitts. Don was a graduate of St. Johns High School, Class of 1971, had been a volunteer at Carson City Hospital, enjoyed gardening, working crossword puzzles and spending time with his dog Milton. 
Arnold Edward Feher Lansing Age 84, died April 21, 2009; born December 19, 1924 in St. Johns, Michigan. 
Jeannine B. Van hecke passed away April 17, 2009 at the age of 79. Born in Ronse, Belgium on July 22, 1929, she was the daughter of Louis and Maria (Roman) Martens. Jeannine married Ernest Van hecke on January 6, 1949 and he preceded her in death on September 26, 1988. Jeannine loved to sew, knit , bead and make porcelain dolls. She cared deeply for the wellbeing of her family. 
R. Irma Fowler, 87, died April 16, 2009 in Owosso. Irma was born on May 6, 1921 in Perrinton, MI the daughter of Earl and Aphra (Hooker) Pixley. She graduated from Ovid High School in 1939 and attended Western University for a year. On May 15, 1942 she married George Fowler. He preceded her in death in 1992. Irma worked as a Medical Associate at The Owosso Medical Group for 20 years. Irma was a member of the Burton Community United Methodist Church, Women’s Fellowship, a 4-H leader, Guardian of Jobs Daughters, Life member of Ovid Eastern Stars, and had served as president of Ovid VFW-American Legion Auxillary.
Agnes Lillian Bensinger (Cotes), born January 24,1910 passed away to join the Lord April 12, 2009 in Kenosha, Wisconsin. She was preceded in death by her parents David and Anna (Husted) Cotes and her four siblings Bruce, Clarabelle, David and Ruth. 
Gerald V. Thelen died April 14, 2009 at the age of 88. Born December 23, 1920 in Fowler, MI the son of Arnold and Irma (Bauer) Thelen. He was a faithful member of Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, past Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus, a member of the 4th Degree and a proud member of the Farm Bureau. He married his loving wife of 64 years, Odelia Fedewa on June 7, 1944 and she preceded him in death on April 12, 2008. 
Joseph J. Beno, Sr., our dear father and grandfather left this world on Sunday, April 12, 2009 at the honorable age of 92. He will be greatly missed by his family. Joe was born on January 11, 1917 in Ashley, Michigan, the son of Frank and Teresa (Rice) Beno. The family moved to Snover, Michigan, where he lived his young life. He married Anna Fabus on May 22, 1943. She preceded him in death on November 2, 1992. Joe lived at his homestead since 1948. He was a Navy Veteran of WW II. He was a factory worker as a tool and die maker and a farmer. He was a member of St. Cyril Catholic Church and the First Catholic Slovak Union. He loved polka dancing, watching WWE wrestling, fishing, hunting and was a member of the American Legion Post #502. He was predeceased by his parents and all of his eleven brothers and sisters and his very special companion and friend, Marie Schreiner. 
Robert J. Platte, age 71, loving husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 10, 2009. He was born on September 24, 1937 in Westphalia the son of Robert and Adeline (Bohr) Platte. Bob farmed his entire life in Westphalia where he loved to fish at the pond, golf, and play cards. What he loved to do most was spend time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, the Westphalia Knights of Columbus St. Jude Thaddeus Council, and the Catholic Order of Foresters. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Paul Platte. 
Robert N. Gilroy died April 9, 2009 at the age of 84. Born in Sault Ste. Marie on February 10, 1925, he was the son of Nelson and Ida Gilroy. Bob was a member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church in St. Johns, the Ushers Club, Knights of Columbus and a Navy veteran of WWII. He retired from the Engineering Dept. of Oldsmobile in 1979 after 31 years of service. Robert married Catherine Charles on June 3, 1947 and she preceded him in death on February 21, 1970. 
Florence M. Koenigsknecht passed away April 8, 2009 at the age of 89, in St. Johns, Michigan. Florence was born on January 11, 1920 in Pewamo, Michigan, the daughter of Anthony and Mary (Klein) Miller. She was a member of Most Holy Trinity Parish as well as Christian Mothers and Daughters of Isabella. On April 29, 1946 Florence married Raymond Koenigsknecht in Pewamo and he preceded her in death on July 21, 2002. 
Harold E. Martin died April 8, 2009 at the age of 86. Born April 6, 1923 in Westphalia, MI he was the son of Oscar and Philomena (Schafer) Martin and live most of his life in the Fowler and Perrinton areas. He was a member of St. Martin DePorres Catholic Church, a WWII veteran and a member of the VFW Post #3733. On June 16, 1956 he married Frances J. Lengo and she preceded him in death. 
Esther Elizabeth Pung, age 93, beloved wife of the late Lewis John Pung, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 7, 2009. She was born on August 8, 1915 in Westphalia Township , the daughter of Peter H. and Clara (Pohl) Smith. Esther was a member of St. Mary Parish, The Christian Mothers, Companions of Mother Pauline and the Westphalia Historical Society. She is remembered by hundreds for her 55 years of service as a 4-H leader. She primarily taught sewing but also baking, gardening, canning and knitting. Esther was awarded Outstanding Michigan Volunteer, Knights of Columbus Woman of the year and Westphalia Citizen of the year. Esther was an avid reader of the daily and local newspapers, frequently sat down at her piano to relax and enjoyed attending P-W Girls and Boys sporting events. She loved to travel (“have bags will travel”) on a moment’s notice, dancing, looking at photos, family gatherings and will truly be missed by all of her family, friends and those she touched. 
Edwin W. George, 73, of St. Johns passed away April 7, 2009. Born March 4, 1936 in Owosso, Edwin was the son of Stanley and Nellie (Ferman) George. He retired from General Motors in Lansing in 1991 and served in the Army for two years. He was married for 47 years to Carole Miller, who survives him. 
Nelda R. Orr of Lansing, age 84, passed away April 6, 2009. She was born May 16, 1924 in St. Johns, Michigan the daughter of Howard D. and Gladys Louise (Grubaugh) Rhines. Nelda married her high school sweetheart, Robert K. Orr, on April 26, 1943, and they enjoyed 47 years of marriage. She was retired from Sears’s drapery department. She had a passion for quilting and made and donated quilts to various charitable organizations.
Doris M. King, 81 died Sunday, April 5, 2009. Doris was born May 13, 1927 in Lansing, MI the daughter of Fred and Marie (Thompson) Funnell. She graduated from Mt. Pleasant High School in 1976. Doris was a homemaker, enjoyed golf, softball, bowling, sports and her family. 
Gordon L. Willyoung died Saturday, April 4, 2009 at the age of 93. He was born December 14, 1915 in Fowler, Michigan the son of Louis and Ruby (Parks) Willyoung. Gordon was a graduate of Fowler High School and after graduation he moved to Lansing and became the chauffeur for R.E. Olds and was privileged to live with the family at the Olds Mansion. Gordon served in the U.S. Navy during WWII, enjoyed hunting and fishing and was an avid sports fan. He was a member of Redeemer United Methodist Church in DeWitt, was a life member of the St. Johns Lions Club, the Wacousta-DeWitt Masonic Lodge # 359 F. & A.M. and was a member of Mt. Moriah American Legion Post # 460. On September 16, 1937 Gordon married Virginia Thedford and together they operated the Green Acres Motel in DeWitt Township. His interest in collecting and selling antiques led them to many shows and to operate an antique shop out of the motel. Gordon’s career in the justice system began in 1959 when he became a Justice of the Peace. In 1963 he was appointed by Governor Romney to be Friend of the Court in Clinton County and was later appointed the first Magistrate of the 65th District Court, a position he held until his retirement. 
Josephine R. Vanderhoof, passed away April 4, 2009 at the age of 91. Josephine was born October 26, 1917 in White Lake Township, Michigan, the daughter of Forest and and Ruth (Leek) Brendel. On July 6, 1933 she married Floyd Vanderhoof in Angola, IN he preceded her in death on February 8, 1993. 
Louis T. Moritz died April 2, 2009 at the age of 88. He was born April 10, 1920 in Dallas Township, the only child of Edward and Amelia (Sudrow) Moritz. He was a Fowler High School graduate. Louis was a farmer and also worked for USDA in poultry research. He was a lifetime member of St. Paul Lutheran Church where he served as president, elder and various offices for several years. Louis married Mary Ellen Damon on May 14, 1941, and she survives him. 
Joseph F. Ralph Jr. died Thursday, April 2, 2009 at the age of 68. He was born May 4, 1940 in Cleveland, Ohio the son of Joseph F. Sr. and Catherine J. (Thorne) Ralph. He was a graduate of St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland and served in the United States Marine Corps from 1958 to 1960. After an honorable discharge from the Marines Corps he became manager of the Public Square Office for Household Finance in Cleveland. A short time later Joe became Vice President of Credit Card Operations for Continental Bank in Cleveland. In 1969 Joe moved to Michigan and entered the furniture business. He was with Riverside Furniture for the majority of his career and achieved the President’s Award for Salesman of the Year during his tenure. Joe was an assistant Boy Scout Leader, enjoyed horseback riding, was an avid reader of the classics and loved to walk with his dog Harley Ann. On February 16, 1985 he married Sally Watkins and she survives him. 
Doug P. Eldridge died April 2, 2009, at the age of 62. Doug was born to Paul and Pansy (Hearl) Eldridge on May 22, 1946 in St. Johns, MI. On November 21, 1989 Doug married Carol Koenigsknecht in St. Johns. Doug was an Essex Township Trustee and served on the Clinton Farm Service Agency county Committee, he also loved farming and drag racing. 
Richard Alan Micka, age 45, of Bannister, MI died Tuesday, March 31st, at his home due to an accident. 
William A. Russell, age 93, of St. Johns, MI passed away Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at his home. 
Sonja “Corky” Goscinski Plamondon joined her grandparents in heaven Sunday, January 18, 2009 at Munson Hospital in Traverse City, Michigan.
Br. Anthony Eugene Jorae, C.S.C., age 67, died peacefully at Hospice of the Western Reserve in Cleveland, Ohio the morning of March 10, 2009. He was born in St. John’s, Michigan on August 12, 1941, the eldest of eleven children of Eugene and Bernice (Plunkett) Jorae. He was baptized at St. Isadore Church in Laingsburg, Michigan on August 24, 1941 and attended St. Joseph’s Elementary School in St. John’s. He studied at St. Joseph’s Seminary, Grand Rapids, Michigan, graduating in 1960. That summer he made the decision to join the Brothers of Holy Cross and entered Sacred Heart Juniorate in Watertown, Wisconsin. 
Joyce E. Russell died March 20, 2009 at the age of 70. Born January 24, 1939 in St. Johns, the daughter of Lawerence and Irene (Ley) Henning. Joyce was a member of the Holy Family Catholic Church in Ovid. Joyce married Kenneth “Skip” Russell in St. Johns on July 20, 1957 and he preceded her in death February 9, 2009. 
Norbert R. Feldpaush died March 18, 2009 at the age of 92. He was born May 8, 1916 the son of William C. and Amelia (Fink) Feldpausch and lived most of his life in Fowler. He was a member of Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church and retired from Federal Mogul in 1977. On July 15, 1941 he married Juliana L. Thelen and she preceded him in death on August 30, 2005. 
Alice M. Crell, age 83, of Elsie, MI died Monday, March 16, 2009 at Hazel I. Findlay Country Manor, St. Johns, Michigan. 
June L. Byrnes died March 16, 2009 at the age of 89. Born June 5, 1919 in Ovid, the daughter of Walter and Jennie (Clark) Hamp. She was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church and the Altar Society. June married Floyd Byrnes on May 28, 1954 in Laingsburg and he preceded her in death on December 10, 1988. She worked for Vaughns Seed Company. She and Floyd then purchased Floyd’s Bar in Laingsburg. June also worked for the ceramic shop in Ovid and last but not least she LOVED bingo. 
Doris C. Savage of Holt, went to be with the Lord Monday, March 16, 2009 at the age of 95. She was born August 2, 1913 the daughter of George and Mary (Ayres) Myers. Doris married Fredrick Savage on September 20, 1936 in Angola, IN and he preceded her in death on June 26, 1977. She was a member of Olivet Baptist Church in Holt. 
LolaMae Wieber died March 15, 2009 at the age of 77. Born December 13, 1931 in Fowlerville, the daughter of Harold and Ruth (Yelland) Emery. She was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Ovid, loved her grandchildren and great grandchildren, enjoyed shopping and Christmas was her favorite time of year. LolaMae married Arnold Wieber in St. Johns on June 21, 1950 and he survives her. 
Charles J. Olson, Jr. of Ovid died March 14, 2009 at the age of 79. He was born April 25, 1929 in Clinton Co. the son of Charles and Ruth Olson. Charles served in the Army and was a member of the American Legion Post #153 in St. Johns. He loved the land and farmed for numerous years, and was an avid hunter. 
Rose Valista Day, age 90, of Elsie, MI died Sunday, March 8, 2009 at Ovid Healthcare Center.
Agnes T. Arens, age 92, loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2009. She was born on September 1, 1916 in Fowler the daughter of John and Anna (Schneider) Thelen. Mrs. Arens was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the Christian Mothers. She married Joseph Arens on June 27, 1939 and he preceded her in death in 1992. She was also preceded in death by sisters, Elizabeth Thelen, Martha Schafer, Sister Catherine, Hilda Bengel, Rose Ann Bengel, Pauline Martin, and Irene Pohl; brothers, Herman and Louis Thelen. 
Genevieve M. Bengel, age 84, passed away on Friday, March 6, 2009. She was born on May 4, 1924 the daughter of Herman and Hildegard (Platte) Fandel. Jean was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, the Christian Mothers, and enjoyed cooking, baking, and quilting. On May 8, 1946 she married Bernard Bengel, Jr. and he survives her. 
Billie Hettler Knaup passed away peacefully at age 91 in Fort Myers, Florida on January 21, 2009 after a lengthy illness. She was a Lansing resident until 1989 when she moved to Fort Myers. 
Iola Pearl Adair, age 82, of Elsie, Michigan died Friday, March 6, 2009 at Sparrow Health Systems, Lansing, Michigan. 
John E. Panik Sr., age 66, of Elsie, MI passed away Tuesday, March 3, 2009 at his home. 
Frances Mary (Woodbury) Greene, 81, died on Friday, Feb. 27, 2009 after a brief struggle with cancer.
Jean Pohl Westphalia Age 93, passed away on March 1, 2009. She was born on January 23, 1916 in Lorain, OH the daughter of Joseph and Mary (Mohar) Kuburcik. Mrs. Pohl was a member of St. Mary’s Church in Westphalia and the Christian Mothers Society. She loved and enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Roman in 1995, and her son Ron’s fiancee, Kim Jones in 2008, as well as 4 sisters and 2 brothers.
Vincent J. Brown, 86, of Muir, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, February 26, 2009. Vincent was born on March 2, 1922 in Westphalia, Michigan the son of Peter and Eleanor (Fandel) Braun. Vincent married Lillian Elvert on April 3, 1964 and she preceded him in death on July 7, 1987. Vincent was a member of St. Peter and Paul Parish in Ionia and V.F.W. Post 3733 in Fowler.
Helen Elizabeth (Mayer) Ward, age 85, passed away on Tuesday, February 24, 2009. Helen was born in Parma, Michigan on March 10, 1923, the daughter of Anna (Smith) and Arthur Mayer. She attended Parma High School and graduated from Jackson High School, class of 1940. In 1941, she was a student at Jackson Junior College. Helen graduated from the Grace Hospital School of Nursing in Detroit, class of 1944 and was a Senior Cadet in the United States Cadet Nurse Corps. Her unconquered spirit and strong determination helped her overcome infantile paralysis (polio), with which she was stricken while in nursing school, and she became an inspiration to others fighting the same disease.
George “Ira” Hayes, Jr. died February 19, 2009 at the age of 43. Born in Hawaii on December 8, 1965, the son of George and Vitolinga (Fola) Hayes. George was a welder working in furniture manufacturing and loved to study the Bible. He married Julie Braeutigan in Clinton County on April 6, 2007, as she survives him. 
James A. “Jim” Gross, age 83, passed away Friday, February 20, 2009. He was born in Maple Grove, Michigan on June 12, 1925, the son of John and Elizabeth (Constine) Gross. Jim married Bertha Cordrey on December 15, 1952 in Flint. He retired from Olsmobile in Lansing. Jim enjoyed his family and his Boston Bull Terriers that were like his children. He and his wife, Bertha spent many wonderful times fishing in various lakes throughout Michigan and Florida. They also traveled in many motor homes and spent time in the U.P. visiting their daughter and son-in-law. Jim took pride in his nice lawn and loved baling hay for his friends and neighbors. 
Jean Howard died Friday, February 20, 2009 at the age of 72. She was born June 8, 1936 in St. Johns, Michigan the daughter of Ellsworth and Edith (Stevens) Stockwell. She was a graduate of Rodney B. Wilson High School in St. Johns, Class of 1954, a former Farm Bureau member and loved spending time with her family. On February 27, 1955 she married Gordon Howard and he survives her. 
Arlynn George Gantz, age 72 of Ithaca, died Tuesday, February, 17, 2009 at Woodland Hospice in Mt. Pleasant. 
Mary Ann (Schwab) Gorsline died Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at the age of 92. She was born October 18, 1916 in Peoria, IL to Ludwig Schwab and Anna Madill Schwab. Mary grew up in Charlevoix, MI, calling it “home” for her large family of siblings and cousins. As a young woman, Mary attended business school and worked for the Federal Government in the Farm Security Administration in Michigan, as a traveling auditor and organizer of regional offices. In 1944 she married Rex J. Gorsline who served in the U.S. Army in Europe during WWII. Following the war they settled in Lansing to continue their married life. A devoted wife, homemaker, mother and dear friend, Mary loved baking, reading, travel, good conversation over a cup of tea, and a brisk game of Scrabble. “Matriarch” of her extended family, Mary kept track of birthdays, anniversaries, and celebrations for all of us. She devoted much time and energy documenting family genealogy, leaving a treasure of information for us to share. A disciplinarian, yet kind-hearted, Mary instilled in others a sense of responsibility, dispensing words of wisdom and advice, and offering a ready ear. 
Hulda L. Bleis passed away on Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at the age of 99. She was born in Millington, MI September 3, 1909, the daughter of the Rev. George and Anna (Bettinghaus) Moehring and she lived in Riley Township and Haslett most of her life. Hulda married Herbert Bleis, November 21, 1929 and he preceded her in death on June 13, 1974. 
Virginia Jean Weber died in Lansing, Michigan, Monday, February 16, 2009 at the age of 57. Virginia was born in Detroit, Michigan on August 11, 1951, the daughter of James and Lois (Lombard) McWilliams. At the age of three her family moved to Ithaca where Virginia went to school. She graduated from Ithaca High School in June of 1969. On August 23, 1969 she married Richard “Dick” Weber at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Ithaca. To this union was born three daughters, Kimberly Jean in 1971, Karen Sue in 1974 and Kathy Ann in 1975. Virginia enjoyed it when her grandchildren came to visit. They were the apple of her eye. She loved to spend summer mornings and evenings out on any lake that had fish in it with her husband. She also liked to go for Gator rides with her friends in the, “Riley Gator Brigade”. 
Willa E. Luttig died February 15, 2009 at the age of 85. Born September 10, 1923, in Gratiot County, the daughter of Guy and Laurel (Beardsley) Woodbury. Willa was a member of Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Fowler. She married Ray Luttig in Fowler on April 10, 1948 and he preceded her in death on February 19, 2006. 
Helen Ellanore Post of Greenbush Township died February 13, 2009 at the age of 100. She was born on September 10, 1908 in Greenbush Township, Clinton County, MI. Helen was preceded in death by her father, Edgar Daniel Post, and mother, Katherine Serena (Goddard) Post, her sister, Katherine Elizabeth Ward, and her brothers, William Earl Post, Frederick Burton Post, Richard Goddard Post, Miron Edward Post, and his son Robert Miron Post, and grandson, William Michael Post. 
Mary Lou (LeFevere) Hogan died Wednesday, February 11, 2009 at the age of 55. She was born May 17, 1953 in Flint, Michigan the daughter of Albert and Eleanor (Blakeley) LeFevere. Mary was a member of United Church of Ovid, and was a graduate of St. Johns High School, Class of 1971 and Davenport Business School. 
Maxine B. Smit, age 88, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 7, 2009, in DeWitt, with her loving family by her side. Maxine was born October 13, 1920 in Dewitt, MI to Francis J. and Mina A. (Bixby) Locher, and graduated from Rodney B. Wilson High School with the class of 1938.
Thomas E. Mahar, age 94, of Haslett, MI passed away Sunday, February 8, 2009 at Serenity House, Bancroft, MI. 
Kenneth S. “Skip” Russell died February 9, 2009 at the age of 71. Born January 15, 1938 in St. Johns the son of Kenneth and LeOna (Purvis) Russell. Kenneth was a member of the Holy Family Catholic Church in Ovid, the U.A.W. Local 925 and Great Lakes United. He served in the United States Marine Corps. Skip married Joyce Henning in St. Johns on July 20, 1957 and she survives him. 
Doris A. Martens died Saturday, February 7, 2009 at the age of 94. Doris was born in Riley Township, Michigan on December 3, 1914, the daughter of John F. and Freida (Tiedt) Schumaker. She married Lorenz Martens in Riley Township and he preceded her in death on December 3, 1996. Doris was a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church. Doris retired as a secretary from the State of Michigan. 
Darrell H. Pope, age 78, of Pensacola , FL , went to be with his Lord and Savior on February 6, 2009. He was born September 27, 1930, in St. Johns , Michigan , the son of Gerald Howard and Violet Mae Pope. Darrell was the oldest of 4 siblings. His many experiences while growing up on his family’s centennial farm in Clinton County, provided countless lessons and memories that he loved to share with his children and grandchildren. He graduated from St. Johns High School in 1948. Darrell served as a Special Agent in the office of Special Investigations in the United States Air Force. He also served during the Korean War with service in Japan . Darrell enlisted in the Michigan State Police in October of 1956.
Jeffrey J. Wieber died suddenly Friday, February 6, 2009 at the age of 47. He was born December 6, 1961 in Ionia, Michigan the son of Leon and Geraldine (Braun) Wieber. He was a member of Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church and a graduate of Fowler High School, Class of 1980. Jeff loved to hunt and fish, was an active volunteer at the Fowler Public Schools, especially at track meets and was a tool and die maker at General Motors. He was selected “Father of the Year” in 204 from an essay contest entered by his daughter and sponsored by Kositchek’s. On April 12, 1986 he married Julie Pung and she survives him. 
Philip Ray McKeachie, age 73, of Dewitt, MI died Wednesday, February 4, 2009 at Eaton County Hospice.
Our beloved mother died Sunday, February 1, 2009 at the age of 83. She was born in Ionia, Michigan on January 4, 1926 the daughter of Alvin and Beryl Moore. Connie lived in St. Johns all of her adult life before moving to Arizona on November 1, 2008. Connie married Lyle James Leonard in 1948. He preceded her in death in 1953. In 1956 she married William J. Kinney who preceded her in death in 1995. 
Joe M. Micka, age 94, of Elsie, MI died Sunday, February 1, 2009 at Carson City Hospital, Carson City, Michigan. 
Dean L. Somers, age 63, of Elsie, MI died Sunday, February 1, 2009 at Sparrow Health Systems Sparrow Campus, Lansing, Michigan. 
Mary Ann Salters died February 1, 2009 at the age of 81. She was born in St. Johns on December 18, 1927, the daughter of Floyd and Florence (Henning) Eiseler. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and V.F.W. Post #4113 Womens Auxilliary. Mary Ann married Stewart Salters in St. Johns on June 22, 1946 and he preceded her in death on March 15, 2002. 
Rosella A. Hyde died January 22, 2009 at the age of 93. Born in Bingham Township on July 31, 1915 the daughter of Frank and Anna (Doyle) Desprez and lived in St. Johns all of her life. Rosella worked as a secretary and bookkeeper most of her adult life as well as being a homemaker. She married R.G. Hyde in Maple Rapids, November 2, 1935, and he preceded her in death on December 21, 1997. 
Max Allen Noonan, age 55, of Elsie, MI Died Tuesday, January 20th, 2009 at his home. 
Tina Louise Goodwin, age 33, of Corunna, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 20, 2009. Tina worked for Autozone and was a volunteer for the Venice Township Fire Department. 
Sandra “Sandy” Lee Doyen age 69 of Ellenton, Florida formerly from Manistee Lake and Elsie, MI left to be with her Lord on December 30, 2008 after a long and courageous battle with AML (leukemia).
Mildred C. "Millie" Scranton died Monday, January 12, 2009, at the age of 93. She was born in Tittabawassee Township in Saginaw County, Michigan on January 4, 1916, the daughter of Jay and Helena (Forster) Hemingway. She lived in Baldwin, Michigan before moving to St. Johns in 1998. Millie was a member of the St. Johns Lutheran Church and a former member of Grace Lutheran Church in Baldwin. She married Harry Scranton July 2, 1939 and he preceded her in death February 22, 1998. 
Daniel Lee Sabo, age 54, of Ovid, MI died Saturday, January 10, 2009 at his home. 
Kenneth W. Goodknecht of Ovid, MI. 86, died Wednesday Jan. 7, 2009 at Hospice House-Mid Michigan. He was born on April 17, 1922 in Owosso, MI the son of Frederick W. and Gladys D. (Varco) Goodknecht. Ken worked at Universal Electric in Owosso for several years retiring in 1986. He married Elizabeth Chrysler on Jan. 17, 1948. She preceded him in death March 6, 1973. On Nov. 3, 1989 he married Rita Rann in Owosso, MI. She preceded him in death on March 19, 2008. Ken enjoyed watching sports, the Detroit Tigers in particular, and music.
Dolores E. Johnson died Sunday, January 4, 2009 at the age of 56. She was born September 19, 1952 the daughter of Marvin and Ellomae (Cassady) Evitts. She was a 1970 graduate of St. Johns High School and enjoyed to crochet. She retired from the Department of Environmental Quality after 37 years of dedicated and loyal service to the State of Michigan. Dolores always felt fortunate to work with such a great group of people whose friendship she valued. She married Don Johnson in October 1977 and he survives her.
Clifford C. Carey, 87 of St. Johns, MI died Sunday, Jan. 4, 2009 at Clinton Memorial Hospital. Clifford was born on March 26, 1921 in Lansing, Mi the son of Henry and Grace (Bale) Carey. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving as a flight engineer and worked at General Motors as a skilled tradesman in small truck repair for 31 years retiring in 1979. In 1944 he married Agnes Prebes and she passed in 1981. In 1983 he married Esther Ritter in St. Johns, MI.
Lyle E. “Red”, “Cobby”, Onstott, 71 of St. Johns, MI died January 3, 2009 at Sparrow Hospital. Lyle was born on June 13, 1937 in Lansing, MI the son of Ralph and Anna (Sipka) Onstott. He graduated from St. Johns High School, was a veteran of the U.S. Army and worked at Federal Mogul, retiring in 1999. On July 17, 1982 he married Emily Gibbs in St. Johns. He will miss seeing his friends at the “Watering Hole” and will look forward to seeing them again someday. He enjoyed watching sports on TV, attending High School Sports and working in his yard.
Lillian Beulah Luckhardt, age 76, of St. Johns, MI Died Friday, January 2nd, 2009 in Lansing, Michigan.
We have lost a husband, a father, a grandfather, a brother, a friend and a teacher. Albin L. Hengesbach, age 70, son of Anthony and Marcella (Fedewa) Hengesbach born on December 15, 1938 in Westphalia Township, passed away on Friday, January 2, 2009. Al lived his entire life in Westphalia Township. He worked for 23 years for Westphalia Builders as a carpenter. In 1980 he established Albin Hengesbach Carpentry and Custom Cabinets and owned and operated it for 28 years. He was joined in business by his four sons. He had been a member of several business organizations, the Westphalia Knights of Columbus St. Jude Thaddeus Council, TPA, ABC, and an usher for St. Mary’s Catholic Church where he was also a member. As he enjoyed semi-retirement his favorite pastime was his grandchildren, golfing, gardening, renewing and maintaing old and new friendships with everyone he met. Al was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Sharon; sister, Evelyn Smith; brothers, Charles, Paul, and James Hengesbach; brother-in-law, Clarence Schafer; several brothers and sisters-in-laws.
Homer “Bud” Michels, 80, of St. Johns, MI, went to Heaven Saturday, November 29, 2008 at Blake Hospital in Bradenton, Florida. Family members were at his side. Bud was a loving husband and father. He dearly loved his sweetheart, Phyllis. They were married for 62 years.
Robert W. Moon of St. Johns Michigan, died Wednesday, December 31, 2008 at the age of 88. He was born June 4, 1920 in Cadillac, Michigan the son of Morton and Lydia (Brehm) Moon. He was a member of First Baptist Church in St. Johns and a former Sunday school teacher. Robert was an Army veteran of WWII an avid hunter and fisherman and a retired drywall contractor. On July 3, 1942 he married Marion “Jeannie” Yerly and she preceded him in death July 5, 2002. He was also predeceased by a sister, Dorothy McMullen and a brother Art.
James C. Hengesbach Westphalia Age 54, loving husband, father, and brother, passed away on Tuesday, December 30, 2008. He was born on May 7, 1954 in Westphalia the son of Anthony and Marcella (Fedewa) Hengesbach. Jim farmed his entire life on the farm he was born and raised on and worked for Albin Hengesbach Trim as a carpenter. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Westphalia, the Catholic Order of Foresters and the TPA. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Charles and Paul Hengesbach; sister, Evelyn Smith; brother-in-law, Clarence Schafer.
William Emerson Chalmers, 80, of Melbourne, Fla., and formerly of St. Johns, passed away peacefully at home Dec. 27, 2008, with family members by his side following a lengthy struggle with congestive heart failure.Bill enjoyed cooking and sharing recipes with family and friends. Ever the jovial host, he loved entertaining guests and spirited conversation.
