Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday, December 22, 2002

Bailey, William C.

            William C. Bailey, 81, of Vermontville, died Tuesday morning, Dec. 10, 2002 at a Charlotte nursing home following a long illness.

            Mr. Bailey was born March 14, 1921 in Marion, a son of Benjamin and Maggie (Switzer) Bailey. During the 1930s he was a member of the Civilian Conservation Corps. He was also an Army veteran of World War II, a former Boy Scout leader, and retired from International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers in 1983.

            Surviving are his wife, Janice; six children, Donietta Ramoro of Texas, Benjamin Bailey and William Bailey Jr., both of Muskegon, Edward Bailey, Thomas Bailey of California, and Daniel Bailey of Vermontville; nine grandchildren, two sisters, three brothers, and several nieces and nephews.

            Graveside services with military honors were held Dec. 13 at Ft. Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, with Rev. James Sherman officiating.

            Arrangements were by Barker-Leik Funeral Home of Mulliken.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday December 15, 2002

Barker, Frieda

            Frieda Barker, 90, passed away Friday, Dec. 6, 2002.

            She was born Sept. 28, 1912 in Windsor Township, the youngest of five children born to George W. and Viola Oblinger Sauntmon.  She graduated from Dimondale High school in 1929 and retired from the Michigan Secretary of State Licensing Dept.  She has resided for two and a half years at New Haven Foster Care Home in Dimondale. She was preceded in death by one daughter, Judith C. Bemis; and three husbands, James E. Smith Sr., Paul DeClercq and Lauren J. Barker.

            She is survived by one son, James (Doris) Smith Jr.; three step-sons, Robert (Fran) DeClercq, Tome (Mary) Barker and Scott (Shirley) Barker; two step-daughters, JoAnn (Bob) Allman and Julie (Ed) Wood; one granddaughter, Patricia (David) Pendarvis; five grandsons, Michael (Deb) Smith, Jeffrey (Brenda) Melton, Todd Melton, Kevin Melton and Dan Melton; nine great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.  Funeral services were held Dec. 9 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Rev. Robert Palmer officiating. Interment followed at Dimondale Cemetery.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday December 15, 2002

Bidinger, Mary E.

Mary Elaine Bidinger, 62, of Charlotte, died Sunday, Dec. 8, 2002.

Ms. Bidinger was born Nov. 2, 1940 in Eaton County, the daughter of John and Thelma (Crandall) Dornan. She worked for over 20 years as the word processing coordinator for Michigan Miller Mutual Insurance Company.  She was a member of the Charlotte Assembly of God Church and very much enjoyed gardening and cats.

She is survived by sons, Thomas of Charlotte, Charles (Patty) of Athens, Ga., and Stephen of Northville; daughters, Laura Kaminski of Albuquerque, N.M. and Melinda (Pedro) Vasquez of Mesa, Ariz.; five grandchildren; and brother, Carleton (Marilyn) Dornan of Scottsdale, Ariz.

Funeral services were held Dec.12 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Pastor Mark Woodbury officiating.  Interment was at Rosehill Cemetery in Eaton Rapids.

Memorial contributions may be made to Missions Program at Charlotte Assembly of God Church.  Further information is available at www.prayfuneral.com.

The Hastings Reminder

Hastings, MI, Barry County

Tuesday, December 17, 2002

Boise, Ray A.

            Ray A. Boise, age 79, of Nashville, died Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2002 at Battle Creek Health Systems.

            He was born Oct. 17, 1923 in Nashville, the son of Harry and Etta (Rogers) Boise.  He attended school in Nashville.

            Ray worked for Eaton’s in Battle Creek for 30 years, retiring in 1980. He also operated Ray’s Auto Wreckers in Nashville from 1970 to 2000.

            He served in the United States Army during World War II. He married Phyllis H. Stambaugh Sept. 23, 1959.

            Ray hobbies were working on cars, hunting and fishing.

            He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Ray Boise Jr. in 1975; three brothers, Charlie Boise, Leo Boise, and Roy Boise.

            Surviving is his wife, Phyllis H. Boise of Nashville; daughters, Margaret Kane of Texas, Laura (Marshall) Pierson of Hastings; Karen (Paul) McClurkin of Hastings; Molly (Norman) Westrate of Hastings, Aleta (Ron) Jones of Tennessee, Lisa Boise of Hastings; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, step-children, Darwin (Kris) McIntyre of Nashville, Louise (Tom) Brundage of Springport, Del’rae Bowers of Hastings, Valarie Smith of Grand Rapids; sister, Eva Pennington of Nashville.

            Respecting his wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Dec. 21, 2002 at 2 p.m. at the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings. Pastor A. Burgett officiating.

            Memorials can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, or Barry County Commission on Aging.

            Arrangements are by the Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday December 15, 2002

Britten, Elmer G.

            Elmer Glen Britten, 83, of Howell, died Dec. 8, 2002 at Hospice House in Mid-Michigan in Lansing.

            Mr. Britten was born Feb. 17, 1919 in Eaton Township, the son of Mabel (Chapman) and Arbie Britten. He married Virginia Bradley; she preceded him in death Nov. 13, 1985. Mr. Britten retired from Brighton Tool and Die and was a member of First Baptist Church of Howell and American Legion Devereaux Post #141. He was a World War II Army veteran.

            He is survived by brothers, Floyd of Bellevue, Harold and Joseph, both of Lansing, Edward of Dimondale and Fred of Eaton Rapids; and seven nieces and nephews.

            He was preceded in death by two sisters.

            Funeral services were held Dec. 11 at MacDonald’s funeral Home in Howell, with Dr. Gary Bruland and Rev. Donald E. Williams of First Baptist Church officiating.  Interment was at Fairview Cemetery in Brighton.

            Memorial contributions may be made at First Baptist Church or American Legion Devereaux Post #141.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday December 15, 2002

Brown, Stanley A.

            Stanley Allen Brown, 48, of Bellevue, died Sunday, Dec. 8, 2002.

            Mr. Brown was born Oct. 2, 1954 in Charlotte, the son of Robert and Patricia (David) Brown.  He was a medical health technician and was in the U.S. Army.

            He is survived by daughters, Jessica Bess of Vicksburg and Laura Brown of Battle Creek; son, Benjamin Brown of Toledo; father, Robert (stepmother Susan Myers) Brown of Charlotte; mother, Patricia Brown of Charlotte; grandchildren, Breanne, Bridgette, Brooke, Dezeray, Devon, Trinity and Makenzie; twin brother Steve Brown and brother Donald (Becky) Brown, both of Charlotte; and many nieces and nephews.

            A memorial service was held Dec. 13 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with R. Raymond Rossell facilitating.

            Memorial contributions may be made to Charlotte Helping Hands. Further information is available at www.prayfuneral.com.

The Hastings Reminder

Hastings, MI, Barry County

Tuesday, December 17, 2002

Chapple, Helen A.

            Helen A. Chapple, 566 Horizon Rd., North Fort Myers, FL died Thursday, the 5^th of December, 2002 at the age of 95.

            Helen was born in Hamburg, MI on Sept. 13, 1907 and was a resident of Grand Blanc and Flint most of her life, retiring in Fort Myers, FL and Delton, MI.

            She was employed at the Fisher Body, Grand Blanc Plant for 29 years, retiring in 1972.

            She is survived by her son Richard and his wife Beverly of North Fort Myers, FL; four grandchildren including Drew Chapple of Delton, MI; eight great grandchildren; and two great great grandchildren.

            She was preceded in death by her husband Walter J. in 1961; her son, Charles W., and her grandson Raymond D.

            Those desiring may make contributions to A.L.S. Foundation or St. Stephens Episcopal Church in Hamburg, MI.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday December 15, 2002

Chase, Donald H.

            Donald H. Chase, 82, of Nashville, died early Saturday morning at Pennock Hospital, Dec. 7, 2002, from a fall he suffered earlier in the day at home.

            Mr. Chase was born Oct. 21, 1920 in Kalamo Township, Eaton County, to Ray and Mayme Chase. His parents were deceased early in his life so Lloyd and Evelyn Hill of Vermontville took him in and helped him through the balance of his school years.  Mr. Chase never forgot that huge act of kindness by the Hill family. He served in the Army Air Force during World War II, having been stationed in several European countries, but primarily in England.  He was a sheet metal worker in the 446^th Bomber Group, Eighth Air Force Division.  He especially enjoyed an opportunity to fly the “big birds” whenever they were not in active service.  After the war effort was complete, Mr. Chase returned home and went to work as a sheet metal fabricator at an Eaton Rapids factory, and later at the Owens Illinois glass plant, from where he retired 20 years ago.  He was a past member of the Vermontville American Legion.  The past two decades found him at home, enjoying the exotic pheasants and peafowl he raised and showed to anyone who visited his Maple Grove Bird Barn.  He also loved to spend as much time as he could creating small wood working projects in his basement; bird houses were a particular specialty.

            Donald and Dora raised four sons between Vermontville and Charlotte.  Surviving are David (Ginny) of Vermontville, Danny (Ann) of Columbia, Tenn., Dallas (Shirley) of Nashville and Donald (Barbara) of Bellevue; nine grandchildren, two step-grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and sisters, Guest “Eddie” Traister and Leota Bradley of Battle Creek.  Donald was preceded in death by his wife of 41 years, Dora; she was his one true love until his death.  One grandchild, Mayme Jean, passed away in 1988, and nephew Larry Anderson was lost in action during the Korean Conflict.  Funeral services were held Dec. 11 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Rev. Kenneth Vaught officiating.  Interment was at Kalamo Cemetery.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday December 15, 2002

Cotton, Helen J.

            Helen Jean Cotton, 77, of Mulliken, died Sunday, Dec. 8, 2002.

            Mrs. Cotton was born Dec. 26, 1924 in Evart, the daughter of Harry and Beatrice (Montgomery) Custer.

            She is survived by daughter, Helene (David) Larson of Eaton Rapids; sons, Harry (Brenda) Cotton of Montpelier, Ohio, and Howard Cotton of Mulliken; granddaughter, Michelle Larson; sisters, Norma Rice of Rodney and Betty Pederson of Evart.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold; grandchildren, Dale, Becky and Susan Cotton; sister Kathleen Bingham; and brother, Forest Custer. Funeral services were held Dec. 11 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Pastor Brian Sheen officiating.  Interment was at Woodlawn Cemetery in Vermontville.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or Woodlawn Cemetery.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday, December 22, 2002

The Hastings Reminder

Hastings, MI, Barry County

Tuesday, December 17, 2002

Croff, Gary L. Jr.

            Gary Lee Croff Jr., 17, of Eaton Rapids, formerly of Vermontville, died Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2002 in Charlotte.

            Gary, son of Gary Lee Croff Sr. and Peggy Jo Sanders, was born in Hastings on Oct. 27, 1985. He attended and enjoyed Maple Valley schools. His hobbies included jet skiing, wrestling, hunting and fishing.

            Surviving are his father, Gary (Tina) Croff Sr. of Ionia; mother, Peggy (Art) Maurer of Eaton Rapids; sisters, Amber Croff of Vermontville and Elisabeth Lincoln of Nashville; grandparents Kenneth and Velma Croff of Ionia, Carol Croff and Clifford VanDeusen of Vermontville and Kathryns Munchbach of Charlotte; great-grandmothers, Mary Kerr of Ionia and Ruth Carrier of Vermontville; aunts and uncles, Kenneth (Wilma) Croff of Marshall, Dennis (Janet) Croff of Vermontville, Brian (Julie) Croff of Nashville, Janet (Cal) Riker of Petoskey, Mark (Nora) Sanders, Joe Sanders, CoCo (Bruce) Davis, Tanya Sager (Terry Harper) and Julie (Jimmy) Moonyham, all of Charlotte; and many cousins.

            No services were held. Interment was at Woodlawn Cemetery in Vermontville Township.

            Memorial contributions may be made to the family. Arrangements were by Maple Valley Chapel in Nashville.

The Hastings Reminder

Hastings, MI, Barry County

Tuesday, December 17, 2002

Deardorff, Bernice W.

            Bernice W. Deardorff, age 93, of Clarksville, passed away Monday morning, Dec. 9, 2002.

            She was born in Campbell Township on Aug. 29, 1909 to Gustave and Minnie (Blough) Deardorff.

            Bernice graduated from Clarksville High School in 1929.

            For many years, Bernice cared for her mother in their home.

            Bernice loved her garden and spent many enjoyable hours tending her flowers and vegetables. She had been a long-time member of the Brethren Church. For the past ten years Bernice had reside din Bear Creek Villa in Clarksville.

            Bernice is survived by several cousins and friends.

            The funeral service was held on Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2002 at the Koops Clarksville Memorial Chapel. Burial was in Bowne Mennonite Cemetery.

            Memorial contributions may be made to the Bear Creek Villa.

            Arrangements were made by Koops Clarksville Memorial Chapel.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday December 15, 2002

DeBolt, Laura

            Laura DeBolt, 68, of DeWitt, formerly of Vermontville, died Thursday, Dec. 5, 2002.

            Miss DeBolt was born Dec. 31, 1933 in Kalamo Township, the daughter of Clarence and Esther (Kellogg) DeBolt.  She worked at Transitions North for the past 8 years.

            She is survived by brother, Louis (Judy) DeBolt of Vermontville; sister, Eleanor (Gary) Kinnie of Dover, Tenn.; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and caregivers at the DeWitt Home.  She was preceded in death by brother Wesley in 2001.  Funeral services were held Dec. 7 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Pastor Wes Emerson officiating.  Interment was at Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte.

            Memorial contributions may be made to the family. Further information is available at www.prayfuneral.com.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday, December 22, 2002

Dilger, Marian

            Marian Ruby Dilger, 86, of Charlotte, died Dec. 10, 2002.

            Mrs. Dilger was born Jan. 26, 1916 in Benton Township, the daughter of John and Ruth (Hale) McDaniel.

            She is survived by several nieces and nephews, and dear friend Joyce Webber.

            She was preceded in death by her husband Peter in 1974.

            Funeral services were held Dec. 16 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with R. Raymond Rossell officiating. Interment was at Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday, December 22, 2002

Dodgson, Kathryn

            Kathryn L. Dodgson passed away peacefully Tuesday morning, Dec. 3, 2002.

            She was raised in Charlotte, the daughter of Addie Belle and Gordon Van McConnell, attended Olivet College and the Lansing Conservatory of Music.

            She moved with her husband Glenwood Dodgson to Grand Rapids in 1936 and had been a member of Park Congregational Church since then, where she was a member of the Dregg Ten, and played piano for the kindergarten.  She was also a member of the Sallie Bender Guild of Butterworth Hospital and the Women’s City Club. She and Glen wood were also founding members of the GR Western Horse Club.

            She was preceded in death by her husband, Glenwood Dodgson, owner of the Dodgson Beauty Salons; sisters, Mildred Perry of Houston Texas, and Melverna Warren of Potterville.

            She is survived by her children, Jack (Sue Harnick) Smith, Michael (Alice) Dodgson, Yvonne Dodgson, John (Leslie) Dodgson and Gregory Dodgson; grandchildren, Gordon, Larry, David and Kathy Smith, Bill, JoAnn, Steve Dodgson, Susan Appenzeller, Katie Southwell, Jenny Cook, Dane Smith, Brett Dodgson, Liz Fetkenhour, Meg Clark and Ryan Dodgson; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

            Funeral services were held Dec. 6 at Metcalf & Jonkhoff Chapel in Grand Rapids.

            Memorial contributions may be made to Park Congregational Church.

The Hastings Reminder

Hastings, MI, Barry County

Tuesday, December 17, 2002

Dorsey, Samuel E.

            Samuel E. Dorsey, age 46, of Hastings, died Sunday, Dec. 8, 2002 as a result of an automobile accident in Ionia.

            He was born Nov. 6, 1956 in Defiance, Ohio, the son of Virgil and Wilma (Hensley) Dorsey. He attended Hastings area schools.

            Sam worked most of his life in construction. He enjoyed various art projects and will be remembered for his quick wit and gentle spirit.   

            He was preceded in death by his father.

            Surviving is a daughter, Susan E. Dorsey, of Hastings, son, Mariah Dorsey of Hastings, mother, Wilma Carothers of Hastings, step-children, Ran Craven, James Bagley, and Maranda Craven, all of Freeport, brothers, Robert Smith of Hastings, Clinton Carothers of Nashville, Sumner Dorsey of Lafayette, IN; and sister Martha Jean Miller.

            Respecting his wishes, cremation has taken place and a remembrance gathering will be held Sunday, Dec. 15, 2002 from 12-4 p.m. at 2915 Wing Rd., Hastings.

            Memorials can be made to the family.

            Arrangements were made by Girrbach Funeral Home in Hastings.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday December 15, 2002

Dull, Richard B.

            Richard Bruce Dull, 59, of Sturgis, passed away Dec. 9, 2002 at University Hospital in Ann Arbor.

            Mr. Dull was born Sept. 24, 1943 n Sturgis, a son of Thomas (Dick) and Dorthy (Brown) Dull and had been a lifelong resident.  He was a graduate of Sturgis High School, class of 1962. Mr. Dull was a plan manager for Skyline Homes in Howe, Ind. For several years and most recently was a carpenter for the Church of the Nazarene.  He was a part of the family of the church, loved working with students, driving bus for special outings, running the scoreboard for sporting events, liked stock car races and loved spending time with his grandkids.  He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, and was a member of Sturgis Eagles Lodge #1314, a former member of Meridian Sun Eagle Lodge #49 F. & A.M. of Sturgis, Saladin Temple of Grand Rapids, and the Loyal Order of the Moose #574.  He was proud that the Sturgis Christian School dedicated its yearbook to him in 2001-02.  Mr. Dull also enjoyed driving a tractor and working on the farm of his son-in-law.

            Surviving are one daughter, Kary (Gary) Parr of Charlotte; son, Craig Dull of Sturgis; three grandchildren, Nicholas and Emily Parr of Charlotte, and Erica Dull of Sturgis; parents, Dick and Dorthy Dull of Okeechobee, Fla.; one brother, Gene (Sandra) McCurry of Sturgis; aunt, Beverly Frohriep of Sturgis; and several cousins.

            Cremation has taken place.  Religious services were held Dec. 12 in the Sturgis Church of the Nazarene, with Rev. John Shoup officiating.

            Memorial contributions may be made to the Sturgis Christian School or online at www.rosenbergschipper-funeralhome.com  Arrangements were by Rosenberg-Schipper Funeral Home Ltd. in Sturgis.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday December 15, 2002

Gardner, Ruth E.

            Ruth Elaine Gardner, of Maple City, passed away Dec. 10, 2002 at the home of her daughter, surrounded by her family.

            Mrs. Gardner was born in Flint on Feb. 23, 1924 to Roy and Fern Woodrow Ormond.  On Oct. 25, 1946 she married Paul M. Gardner in Travers City.  Together they had three children.  She served as a WAVE during World War II and was stationed at the U.S. Naval Hospital in San Diego.

            She is survived by her children, Michael, Thomas (Barb Zupin) and Katie (Dave) Taberski, affectionately known as Mully, Bit and Kitty; and sisters, Barbara Ormond and Ann Engebretsen.  At her request, there will be no services and cremation has taken place.  Memorial contributions may be made to Cherryland Humane Society, 1750 Ahlberg Road, Traverse City, MI 49686, where she found her loyal companion, Buttercup. Arrangements were by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home in Traverse City.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday December 15, 2002

Hawkins, Elwood R.

            Elwood Raymond “Duke” Hawkins, 88, of Grand Ledge, passed away Monday, Dec. 2, 2002 in his residence.

            Mr. Hawkins was born Sept. 19, 1914 in Vermontville, the first child of Ray and Hattie (Bale) Hawkins. He was a World War II veteran, serving in the Army Air Forces in the Pacific.  He was a lifetime member of VFW Post 8260 in Nashville, and retired in 1974 after working more than 30 years at Motor Wheel Corp. in Lansing.  He was a farmer in Grand Ledge for many years as well.  After retiring, he enjoyed 19 years of fishing every day possible.  He was known as a loving and devoted husband and father.

            He was preceded in death by his wife of 59 years, Idabelle (Graham); his brother, Lawrence; and recently his sister, Anna Mae (Hawkins-Schaub) Antico.  Surviving are two sisters, Lucille Carroll of Portland and Eleanor Rawson of Grand Rapids; daughter, Gloria McCoy (Gerald Fay); grandson, Pat (Tina) McCoy of Lansing; and many nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors.  Funeral services were held Dec. 9 at Rosier Funeral Home, Mapes-Fisher Chapel, in Sunfield.  A military graveside service followed at Sunfield Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be made to the cancer or Alzheimer’s fund, c/o Rosier Funeral Home, P.O. Box 36, Sunfield, MI 48890.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday, December 22, 2002

Hisler, Blanche L.

            Blanche L. (McDonald) Hisler, 99, of Springport, died Saturday, Dec. 14, 2002 at Eaton Manor Nursing Home in Charlotte.

            Mrs. Hisler was born Jan. 22, 1903 in Charlotte, the daughter of Thomas and Susan (Ferris) McDonald, and was a lifelong Eaton County resident. She attended Eaton County Normal School and taught school at the Ver-Plank and Butterfield Rural schools.

            Surviving are three daughters, Kathryn Stevens of Bellevue, Charlotte Dowding and Virginia (Darrell) Hicks, both of Charlotte; daughter-in-law, Dorma Hisler of Spring port; 13 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren.

            She was preceded in death by her husband, Harry Hisler on Oct. 28, 1950 and her son, Harry “Bud” Hisler Jr. on July 31, 1999.

            Funeral services were held Dec. 18 at Burkhead-Green Funeral Chapel in Charlotte, with Jerry Carpenter, Minister of The Gospel, officiating. Interment was at Clarence Center Cemetery.

            Memorial contributions may be made to the Charlotte District Library, Hayes Green Beach Hospital or Eaton County Meals on Wheels.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday, December 22, 2002

Hudson, Paul J.

            Paul (Skip) Joseph Hudson, Jr., 64, of Charlotte, died Saturday, Dec. 14, 2002.

            Mr. Hudson was born Sept. 25, 1938, in Milwaukee, Wis., the son of Paul Earl Hudson and Mary Portia (Hutting) Hudson.  He grew up in the Lansing area and was employed at B.O.C. in Lansing until his retirement in November 1999.  He was a member of St. Mary’s Church in Charlotte, U.A.W. Local 652, and a driver for the Meals On Wheels program.  He was interested in photography and genealogy.

            He is survived by his wife, Diane; son, Alex of Charlotte; daughters, Mary (Pete) Hudson-Mack of Holland, Chris (Timothy) Pratt of Grand Rapids, Stephanie (Scott) Hall of Grand Rapids, and Carrie (Rae) Dennison; five grandchildren, Lauren, Ethan and Ryan Pratt, and Ellis and Tate Mack; sister, Janet (Bob) Schuster of Little River, S.C.; brothers, Dick of Greenville, Bill of Sun City, Fla., John (Debbie) of Cadillac, and Mike (Carolyn) and Martin (Judy) both of Lansing.

            Rosary service was held Dec. 17 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. The funeral mass was held Dec. 18 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Charlotte, with F. Denis Spitzley as celebrant. Interment was at Maple Hill Cemetery.

            Further information is available at www.prayfuneral.com.

The Hastings Reminder

Hastings, MI, Barry County

Tuesday, December 17, 2002

Knight, Edward L.

            Edward L. Knight, age 60, of Woodland, passed away unexpectedly Monday morning, Dec. 9, 2002.

            Eddie was born in Mecosta County on March 27, 1942 to E. H. and Marian (Smith) Knight.

            He graduated from Muskegon Catholic Central High School and went on to serve with the U.S. Army for three years in the early 1960’s.

            Until his retirement, Ed had worked for Fisher Body in Lansing for 30 years.

            He was married to Lucretia Marie Lindloff on June 9, 1967.

            Ed was an avid hunter and enjoyed fishing, camping and traveling.

            Ed loved life and was proud to be in the middle of many jokes.  To his family, he was known as “Mr. Maytag” because he loved to agitate everyone.

            Ed was also a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Woodland.

            Ed is survived by his wife, Lucretia Marie; his daughter, Connie and Ken Shanks; his “grandbrats,” Cori and Kyle Shanks; his mother, Marian Knight; his sister, Elizabeth (Clyde) Bluhm; his brothers, Larry (Ann) Knight and Richard (Sue) Knight; and many other relatives and friends.

            He was preceded in death by his father, E.H. Knight.

            In keeping with Ed’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no funeral service.

            Arrangements were made by Koops Funeral Chapel in Lake Odessa.

The Hastings Reminder

Hastings, MI, Barry County

Tuesday, December 17, 2002

Lancaster, Alberta E.

            Alberta E. Lancaster, age 88, of Hastings died Saturday Dec. 14, 2002 at Thornapple Manor.

            Mrs. Lancaster was born on Feb 3, 1914 in Delton, Mich., the daughter of Guy and Rena (Holbrook) Higgins.

            She was raised in the Delton/Prairieville areas and attended schools there.

            She was married to Richard E. Lancaster on Jan. 14, 1931. She lived in the Hastings area all of her married life.

            She was employed at Hastings Manufacturing Company from 1947 until she retired in 1976.

            She was a member of Grace Wesleyan Church, an avid sportswomen enjoying hunting with her family. A life member of Barry County Conservation Club and Barry County Sportswomen’s Club.

            Mrs. Lancaster is survived by sons, Clarence (Joellen) Lancaster of Hastings, Kenneth (Nancy) Lancaster of Hastings and Allen (Elizabeth) Lancaster of Hastings; 17 grandchildren; several great grandchildren; brother, James Higgins of Grand Rapids; sisters, Lucile Higgins of Wellston and Rose Guernsey of Hastings; nieces and nephews.

            Preceding her in death were parents; husband, Richard on March 6, 1977; brothers, Donald, Albert, Charles and Guy; ½ sisters, Beatrice and Bernice.

            Services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2002 at Hastings’ Grace Wesleyan Church with Pastor Alvin C. Yates. Burial will be at Barryville Cemetery.

            Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Disease Foundation or Barry Community Hospice.

            Arrangements are being made by Wren Funeral Home of Hastings.

The Hastings Reminder

Hastings, MI, Barry County

Tuesday, December 17, 2002

Meyer, Florence Marie

            Florence Marie Meyer, age 86, formerly of Sunfield, passed away early Saturday morning, Dec. 14, 2002.

            Marie was born in Comstock, MI on Aug. 5, 1916 to William and Florence (Halstead) Loftus.

            She moved to Sunfield with her parents when she was a small girl, and except for several years during World War II when she worked in Battle Creek, had lived on the same homestead her entire life.

            Marie had also worked as a nurses’ aid at Pennock Hospital for a number of years.

            She loved gardening and found much contentment caring for her flowers.

            Marie is survived by her children, Rosemary (Randy) Hewitt, Bill (Jean) Meyer, Dan Meyer, Dave (Diane) Meyer, and Ron Meyer; 10 grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.

            She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Arthur Meyer; and her sister, Wilma Loftus.

            In keeping with Marie’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A committal service will be held in the spring at Woodland Memorial Park.

            Arrangements are being handled by the Koops Funeral Chapel in Lake Odessa.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday, December 22, 2002

Misener, Robert

            Robert Misener, 80, of Ocala, Fla., formerly of Vermontville and Lansing, died Sunday, Dec. 8, 2002 at his residence.

            Mr. Misener was born May 20, 1922 in Grand Ledge, the son of Elmer Sr. and Liddie (Griswald) Misener. He was a brick mason for many years with Bricklayers Local #31.

            He is survived by sons, Robert L. (Doreen) Misener, Jr. of Marshall and James (Helen) Misener of Lansing; daughters, Gloria Gilding (Rod) of Bellevue and Rosiland (Richard) Emery of Albion; 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; brother, Elmer Misener Jr. of Grand Ledge; sister, Mary Kelly of Grand Ledge; companion of many years, Kay Billis and daughters Bev and Dorothy and families.

            He was preceded in death by his wife Avis in 1976.

            Funeral services were held Dec. 17 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Dr. Roy Backus officiating. Interment was at Woodlawn Cemetery in Vermontville.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday December 15, 2002

Murray, Cathleen D.

            Cathleen Diane Murray, 63, of Charlotte, died Sunday, Dec. 8, 2002.

            Ms. Murray was born May 8, 1939 in Charlotte, the daughter of Reynold and Thelma (Wright) Beals.  She had been employed by Hayes Green Beach Hospital for 22 years, retiring in June 2000.  She is survived by daughters, Cathleen (Bruce) Carmoney of Ionia and Lynn Redfield of Charlotte; son, Alfred (Annie) Murray of Decatur, Miss.; six grandchildren; brothers and sisters, Shirley (Amos) Ellsworth of Eaton Rapids, Reynold (Joyce) Beals of Florida, Bruce (Elaine) Beals of California, Roger (Yvonne) Beals, Raymond (Mary Ellen) Beals, Stanley (Leetha) Beals and Linda (Ray ) Winters, all of Charlotte, Judy (Len) Wisinski of Haslett; and sister-in-law, Beverly (Russell) Beals of Potterville.  She was predeceased by her brother Russell Beals, and sister Rosemary Gould.  Memorial services were held Dec. 12 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Rev. Hugh Burger officiating.  Interment was at Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte.  Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer society or Hospice House of Mid Michigan.  Further information is available at www.prayfuneral.com.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday, December 22, 2002

The Hastings Reminder

Hastings, MI, Barry County

Tuesday, December 17, 2002

Roberts, James D.

            James Dale Roberts, 60, of Nashville, passed away at home Saturday, Dec. 14, 2002.

            Mr. Roberts was born Jan. 22, 1942, the son of the late Charles and Laura (Huffmon) Roberts.  He married Mary Louise Ledbetter on Sept. 20, 1964 in Aikin, S.C. Mr. Roberts spent his last few years with Myrt Hager. He loved country music and had a great passion for songwriting and singing, especially at Prairiville.

            He is survived by three children, Kathryn (Jeremie) Modine of Columbia, Tenn., Teresa Roberts of Witchita Falls, Texas, and Terry (Julie) Johnson of Ionia; grandchildren, Scott and Amber Hamilton, and Rayven Modine; two sisters, Kathy Roberts of Greenville and Dana (Tim) Estep of Sunfield; and two brothers, Herb (Barb) Roberts of Hastings and Chuck Roberts of New Paris, Ind.

            Memorial services were held Dec. 18 at Nashville Baptist Church in Nashville, with Pastor Lester DeGroot officiating.  Inurnment was at North Eagle Cemetery in Eagle.

            Arrangements were by Maple Valley Chapel of Nashville.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday December 15, 2002

Trachsel, Nylla A.

            Nylla Allyn Trachsel, 77, of Charlotte, died Dec. 10, 2002.

            Mrs. Trachsel was born March 29, 1925 in Charlotte, the daughter of Gerald and Thelma (Miller) Parish.

            She is survived by sons, Robert Proctor of Gaylord and Robin Trachsel of Durand; daughter, Sharon Bonnier of Sault Ste. Marie; nine grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

            She was preceded in death by her husband, James Trachsel in 1988. Funeral services were held Dec. 13 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Mark Woodbury officiating.  Interment was at Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte.

            Memorial contributions may be made to the family.  Further information is available at www.prayfuneral.com.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday, December 22, 2002

Trainor, Leota Hisler

            Leota Hisler Trainor passed away Friday, Dec. 13, 2002.

            Mrs. Trainor was 97 years old and had been a resident of Sun Terrace Facility in Sun City Center, Fla. for a few months. Prior to this she resided at the Coach House Mobile Home Park in Palmetto, Fla. For over 30 years. She was born Sept. 6, 1905 in Schoolcraft, the daughter of Frank and Patti (Calvert) Schroth.  When she was young, her parents moved to Eaton County where she later met and married Floyd Hisler in 1926. They lived on a farm on Springport Road from 1937 until Floyd preceded her in death in 1969.  She married Kenneth Trainor in 1973, and he preceded her in death in 1990. She was also preceded in death by her parents and three brothers, two sisters and two grandsons. She was a member of Palmview First Baptist Church in Palmetto, Fla.

            Surviving are two daughters, Marilyn (Richard) McCormick of Sun City Center, Fla., Norma (Fred) Harkness of Lakeland, Fla.; son, Howard (Dorothy) Hisler of Eaton Rapids; 14 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

            Cremation has taken place and a graveside service will be held at a later date, with burial in Rosehill Cemetery in Eaton Rapids.

Charlotte Shopping Guide

Charlotte, MI, Eaton County

Sunday, December 22, 2002

The Hastings Reminder

Hastings, MI, Barry County

Tuesday, December 17, 2002

Whipple, Joy M.

            Joy M. Whipple, 66, of Nashville, died Friday, Dec. 13, 2002 at Hayes Green Beach Hospital in Charlotte.     

            Mr. Whipple was born Dec. 21, 1935 in Saranac, the daughter of John and Rachel (Fischer) Marker. She loved cooking and enjoyed having friends and family to her house for meals. She enjoyed fishing and loved spending time with her family and was very affectionate toward them all, although she was extremely outspoken and known to be stubborn at times.

            Surviving are her significant other, Dennis Harwood of Nashville; four daughters, Mona Reid of Nashville, Shanon Whipple and Tara Whipple, both of Hastings, and Linda Curry of Wyoming; one son, Craig (Rhonda) Whipple of Texas; six stepchildren, Diana (Vaughn) Reid, Dennis Harwood Jr. and Marcia (Chris) Ruedisueli, all of Nashville, Patty Musser and Sara Harwood (Brent Martin), both of Vermontville, and Laura (Steve) Blakney of Marshall; 27 grandchildren, including special granddaughter, Jordanna; and seven great-grandchildren.

            Services were held Dec. 16 at Maple Valley Chapel in Nashville. Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

The Hastings Reminder

Hastings, MI, Barry County

Tuesday, December 17, 2002

Zech, Gary R.

            Gary R. Zech, age 53, of Niles, formerly of Berrien Springs, died Friday morning, Dec. 13, 2002, at Pennock Hospital, Hastings, Mich.

            Gary was born Aug 16, 1949, in Benton Harbor, the son of Richard R. and Aldythe (Trapp) Zech. He had been employed as a semi driver for D&J Trucking of Niles. Gary liked to laugh, and one of his leisure enjoyments was gardening.

            He is survived by his daughter, Heidi Zech of St. Joseph; his son, Gary Robert “Bobby” Zech of Berrien Center; his mother, Aldythe Zech of Stevensville; two brothers, Norman Zech of Berrien Center and Neal A. Zech of Berrien Springs; and his partner, Sue Starkweather of Hastings, Mich.; and her two daughters, Jennifer (and her son Jacob) and Nicole Starkweather, also of Hastings.

            He was preceded in death by a son, Matthew, in 1972, and by his father in 1990.

            Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2002 at Allred Funeral Home, Berrien Springs, with Rev. Walt Rothfuss officiating. Burial will follow in Rose Hill Cemetery, Berrien Springs.

            Memorials in Gary’s name may be given to the Michigan Heart Association, the Humane Society, or to Hospice at Home.