2019 Obituaries

Week of March 17

Karl Floyd Barden


Karl Floyd Barden, 82, of South Haven, died peacefully on March 10, 2019. Karl was born Dec. 14, 1936 in South Haven, the son of Donald and Katherine (Fletcher) Barden.

Karl enjoyed a lifelong career as a fruit farmer, regularly driving his crop to Chicago and other markets. He filled his free time playing trombone in the Casco Township Band and later became a volunteer firefighter for Casco Township where he became assistant fire chief for many years. He was a proud lifetime member of the Michigan Flywheelers as well as the Michigan State Horticulture Society, enjoyed car and tractor shows, and never passed up the chance to go to a NASCAR race.

Karl was preceded in death by his parents; son, Charlie; and brother-in-law, Michael Merchant. Surviving are his wife of 55 wonderful years, Novella; son, Brian (Claudia) Barden; daughter-in-law, Becky Barden; grandchildren: Adam, Jacob, Alex, Ben, Luke and Megan; sister, Kathleen Merchant; and several nieces and cousins.

Visitation was 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, March, 16, 2019 at First Congregational Church, 651 Phoenix St., South Haven, where a service was at 1 p.m.. A luncheon followed in the church hall. Burial took place at McDowell Cemetery.

Please visit Karl’s personal web page at www.BetzlerFuneralHome.com, where you can read his story, archive a favorite memory or photo and sign his online guestbook. Memorial contributions may be made to First Congregational Church Bell Fund or Caring Circle Hospice at Home. Special thanks to the Bodfish family, Theresa Conklin, Pam and Mike Bailey, Grace of Douglas, and Caring Circle Hospice at Home. Arrangements by Betzler Life Story Funeral Home, 6080 Stadium Dr Kalamazoo, MI 49009, (269) 375-2900.

Edward W. Bierhalter

Edward W. Bierhalter, 91, of South Haven, passed away Monday, March 11, 2019 at his home. He was born Jan. 23, 1928 to Edward J. and Marie (Babor) Bierhalter in South Haven. Ed graduated with the South Haven class of 1946.

Ed honorably served his country in the United States Navy aboard the aircraft carrier Philippine Sea during World War II. During his service, Ed traveled to the South Pole with Admiral Byrd. He married Dorothy Peterson on Feb. 13, 1954 by the Justice of the Peace in South Haven with their reception held in Kibbie. They shared 63 years in marriage before her passing in 2017.

Ed later became of a police officer for the South Haven Police Department for 12 years. He then became a fire fighter for the South Haven Fire Department for 22 years before his retirement in 1989. Ed enjoyed bowling, golfing, baseball, and spending time with all of his grandchildren.
Ed is survived by his children – Kathy (Norm) Hodges of Tulsa, Okla., Kevin (Laurie) Bierhalter of South Haven and Keith Bierhalter of South Haven; grandchildren – Aaron (Pam) Hodges, Amber (Brian) Beisly, Morgan Bierhalter, Hayley Bierhalter, Reece (Stephanie) Bierhalter and Kelsi Bierhalter; and great-grandchildren – Jordan, Dylan, Ellie, Reagan, Carly and Delaney.

A graveside service with veteran’s honors was at 11 a.m., Friday, March 15, 2019 with Rev. Jeffrey S. Dick officiating at Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven. Contributions may be made in Ed’s memory to the South Haven Area Emergency Services, 90 Blue Star Highway, South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333.

Katherine (Jewell) Dempster

Katherine (Jewell) Dempster, 83, passed away Friday, March 8, 2019 at Atria Park Assisted Living in Tucker, Ga. She was born Nov. 4, 1935 to Loyd and Marion (Sylvester) Jewell in Detroit. She graduated from Albion College and later earned a master's degree from Western Michigan University. She worked as a school teacher in Illinois, Louisiana, and Michigan and was also a a limited licensed psychologist in Southwest Michigan.   

She is preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Don Dempster. 
Kathe is survived by her daughter – Diane Dempster of Tucker, Ga.; sons – Doug (Melanie) Dempster of Andover, Mass. and Andy (Christine) Dempster of Canton; son-in-law – Dave Majchrzak of Tucker, Ga.; grandchildren – Aaron Mack, Jacob Majchrzak and Hannah Majchrzak of Tucker, Ga., Michael Dempster and Nathan Dempster of Canton and Alec Dempster of Andover, Mass.; and several nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her companion, Dick Hart of South Haven.

Kathe had a huge heart and loved to help the people in her family as well as through her career and volunteer work. Over the years, Kathe volunteered at Peace Lutheran Church, the Van Buren County CAN Council, AAUW, Beta Sigma Phi, Parents Anonymous and many other organizations. She also served on the board of directors for Lutheran Social Services of Michigan as well as the board of Alumnae for Albion College. Kathe was a fierce advocate for families, teaching parenting classes, advocating for families and children in crisis, and even after retiring, was active in the Guardian ad Litem program in both Michigan and Florida. She also enjoyed tennis, playing bridge, piano and vocal music. 

A memorial service is scheduled at noon, June 8, 2019 at Peace Lutheran Church in South Haven followed by a luncheon. Contributions may be made in Kathe’s memory to Caring Circle Hospice at Home, 05055 Blue Star Highway, South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333.

Sylvia Moskowitz Jordan

Sylvia Moskowitz Jordan passed away March 10, 2019 in Sarasota, Fla. Her son Rich and daughter-in-law Rhonda were at her side.
Sylvia was the last of the Moskowitz family of Bangor. The family founded the Moskowitz Stores of Fennville and Bangor. The stores were well known and successful for over 50 years. Sylvia was the youngest of the seven children of Louis and Eva Moskowitz. She was preceded in death by sisters Ida, Lily, Rose, and Francis and by her brother Max and Benny.
Her husband of 62 years, Ruben “Tuffy” Jordan passed in 2009.
Sylvia turned 91 on March 2 of this year and was honored by her three grandchildren and six great-grandchildren at a party in Sarasota.
Sylvia made many friends and loyal customers during her years in Fennville. Her ethical business practices and sense of style made the Moskowitz Store in Fennville a long-time shopping destination.
Sylvia’s kind words and wonderful sense of humor will be missed by all those fortunate enough to know her.
In lieu of flowers, Sylvia requested that donations be made to the Fennville High School Athletic Department. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family was helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Bette (Goodrode) Lithen

Bette (Goodrode) Lithen, 95, passed away Friday, March 8, 2019 at her daughter’s home under her and Hospice care. She was born Sept. 27, 1923 to Max and Harriet (Kendall) Goodrode in South Haven. She worked as a cosmetologist and instructor for 20 years in South Haven, Benton Harbor and Midland. She retired in 1976 to Boyne City, Michigan with her husband Gilbert Lithen. They enjoyed fishing, boating, camping, and traveling the United States. She returned to South Haven in 1988 to be near her children and grandchildren following the death of her husband. She enjoyed frequenting the casinos.

She is preceded in death along with her husband by a son – Paul Ignelzi; two sisters – Virginia Perry and Jane Pierce; and brother – Max Goodrode.
Bette is survived by her daughter – Teresa (Dennis Ott) Ignelzi of South Haven; son – Tim (Linda) Ignelzi of Mountain Home, Ark.; daughter-in-law – Gerrie Ignelzi of South Haven; grandson – Robert (Shelly) Paulson of Fennville; three granddaughters – Donna (Tim) Corbett of South Haven, Lori Ignelzi of South Haven and Nikki (Jon) Davis of Arlington, Texas; six great-grandchildren – Joshua, B.J., Hunter, Taylor, Chase and Kyle; and several nieces and nephews.
Services are not scheduled at this time. Contributions may be made in Bette’s memory to Caring Circle Hospice at Home, 05055 Blue Star Hwy., South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.





Charles “Andrew” McAlear

Charles “Andrew” McAlear, 87, of South Haven, died Tuesday, March 12, 2019 at his home. He was under Hospice care. He was born April 22, 1931 to Charles and Margaret (Ray) McAlear in Bay City. He married Robin Gross on April 27, 1963, in St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Monroe.

He honorably served his country as a corporal in the United States Army during the Korean War. He learned Chinese at the  Army Language School in Monterrey, Calif., before being deployed to Korea.  He later earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Michigan. He worked as a CPCU in the insurance industry until his eventual retirement in 1987.

In 1970  he founded McAlear Associates, a wholesale insurance brokerage firm, in Grand Rapids.  In 1975 he was a founder of the National Association of Professional Surplus Lines Offices (NAPSLO).  In 1994 he became a charter member of the Michigan Insurance Hall of Fame.  He is the author of two books,   “The Foundering Ark” and “Reappraising China Redefining Literacy.”

In 1987 he and his wife moved to New Orleans for 18 years.  They returned to Michigan and settled in South Haven in 2005.

Andrew lived well and had many interests.  He was a voracious reader, starting every day with three newspapers. He loved traveling the world with Robin, old movies that reminded him of when he was a boy, Japanese food, cool cars, his brothers and sisters, and his kids. He was endlessly curious about the world and a great conversationalist and letter writer. He is missed already by those he leaves behind.

Andrew is preceded in death, along with his parents, by a brother – Edward McAlear. 
He is survived by his wife; children – A.J.  McAlear and Beth McAlear, both of New Orleans, La. and Robert (Catherine Milian) McAlear of Sachse, Texas; siblings – Bob (Cindy) McAlear of South Haven, and Margaret Mosher, John McAlear, and Rosellen McAlear, all of Flushing; and grandchildren – Cecilia McAlear, Charles Cusac, Liam McAlear, Roma McAlear, Enzo Osores, Natalia Osores and Zoe Milian.

Visitation will be held from 3-4 p.m., Saturday, March 23, 2019 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Memorial services will begin at 4 p.m. at the funeral home.  In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Andrew’s memory to the Lake Michigan College Foundation - with a memo - Seed of Hope Scholarship. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.



Week of March 10

Leonard Alvin Cramer

Leonard Alvin Cramer, of Portage, age 85, went peacefully home to be with his Lord on Friday, March 1, 2019. Len was born July 4, 1933 in Comstock, the son of the late Albert and Jennie (Kiewiet) Cramer. On Sept. 25, 1953 he was united in marriage to Marie E. (Scarlett) Cramer.

For many years Len worked in kitchen design shops and in 1980 he opened his own kitchen design company “That Kitchen Place” in South Haven, retiring in 2005. Len was a former member of the Singing Crusaders Male Chorus and a member of Second Reformed Church. He loved to travel. Len touched many lives during his walk on earth. He loved talking and sharing his faith and made friends wherever he went.

Len was preceded in death by his loving wife of 61 years, Marie E. Cramer on June 15, 2014; and by their son, Larry Cramer in 2007. Len loved his children and grandchildren and was very proud of them. Surviving are two daughters, Julie Cramer of Portage and Caryn (Randy) Locker of South Haven; grandchildren, Adam (Leah) Locker of Zeeland, Aimee (Matthew) Johnson of South Haven and Allyse Locker (fiancé Zack Bredeweg) of Grand Rapids; great-grandchildren Harper and Maryn Locker, Bryn, Reese and Nash Johnson; sister-in-law, Joan (Donald) Stamm of Portage and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held on Monday, March 4, 2019 at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, in Kalamazoo. The service to celebrate Len’s life was Tuesday, March 5, 2019 at the Second Reformed Church in Kalamazoo. Interment was held in Mt. Ever-Rest Cemetery in Kalamazoo. Memorials in Len’s memory may be directed to Great Lakes Hospice or Second Reformed Church. Please visit Len’s personalized web page and guest book at www.langelands.com.

Denice Ann Doroff-Kelley

Denice Ann Doroff-Kelley, 63, of Lacota, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2019 at her home. She was born July 20, 1955 to George and Mary (Monniech) Doroff in South Haven.

She graduated from South Haven High School with the Class of 1973. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and being outdoors riding her bike or kayaking on Lake Michigan. She also enjoyed raising chickens, “Chi-Chi,” and bird watching and especially liked cardinals. Denice loved her flowers. She was a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church in South Haven.

She is preceded in death along with her parents by a brother – George Doroff.

Denice is survived by her companion – Shawn Brown of Muskegon; children – Sonia (EJ) McNamara of South Haven and Shadd (Katie) Kropaczewski of Grand Rapids; siblings – Carol Ann (Steve) Schewe of Pullman, Annette Doroff-Blunt of Bradington, Fla., and Aaron Doroff of Hartford; grandchildren – Conrad Doroff, BreAnna Dillavou and Jay McNamara; and nieces and nephews – Zina, Amanda, Ryan, Trevor, Patty and Tim.
Visitation was from 3-5 p.m., Sunday, March 3, 2019 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Contributions may be made in Denice’s memory to Al Van Humane Society, PO Box 421, South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Corey Lee Mashburn

Corey Lee Mashburn, 31, of South Haven, passed away Wednesday, March 6, 2019 at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo. He was born June 14, 1987 to Bill and Sarah (Elzinga) Mashburn in South Haven.

Corey loved working on cars and installing stereos. He was an outdoorsman who enjoyed tree trimming. Corey worked at Swan's Lawn Care for the past six months. Corey was a wonderful father. He loved his children and loved spending all of his time with them. His smile would light up the room. He was a member of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents – Garry and Roseanna Elzinga and Elwood Stainbrook.
He is survived along with his parents by children – Arrmond Mashburn, William Mashburn, Eva Mashburn, Trent Koenig, Corey Mashburn, Jr., and another daughter on the way; companion – Courtney Koenig; brother – Jason (Tiffany) Mashburn of Aberdeen, SD, and grandmother – Pat Mashburn. Many aunts, uncles, cousins, a niece and three nephews also survive.
Visitation will be held from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, March 10, 2019 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services will follow visitation at 4 p.m. at the funeral home. Corey will be laid to rest at Chambers Cemetery in Geneva Township at 1 p.m. on Monday, March 11, 2019. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Thomas Edward O'Bryan

Thomas Edward O'Bryan of South Haven, Michigan passed away Feb. 7, 2019. Tom, a Michigan native, was born Feb 8, 1948 to Doris J. Fagan. Tom graduated from L.C. Mohr High School in South Haven in 1966. In 1970 he graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in economics and political science. He was a graduate student at Western Michigan University from 1971 until he moved to Boulder, Colo. in 1972.

Tom was a member of the Michigan National Guard from 1970 to 1972, and the United States Army Reserve, 244th Engr. Bn., Boulder, Colorado from 1972 to 1976. He received an Honorable Discharge from the military in 1976. Tom was a member of the American Legion.

As an entrepreneur he held many positions while living in Boulder, Colo.  In 1977, he founded and was president of Scorpio Enterprises, a spa business.  For a number of years his spa provided treatment for some of the U.S. Olympic teams competing in the "Bolder Boulder" races.  His inquisitive mind brought him to the legal profession where he became a paralegal specializing in bankruptcy proceedings.  During this same time, he opened Comspec Trading House Corp. specializing in future contracts.  Tom's final company was the Thomas E. O'Bryan Real Estate firm opened in 1996.  The business community held Tom in high regard.

He was preceded in death by his mother and brother, Doris Fagan and Benjamin Fagan.  His friends in Colorado and Michigan will miss him dearly.

Visitation will be held from 10-11 a.m., Monday, March 11, 2019 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services will follow visitation at 11 a.m. with Rev. Jeffrey S. Dick officiating. A time for fellowship and light refreshments will follow funeral services at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Tom’s memory to the First Church of God in South Haven, 567 Broadway St, South Haven, MI 49090, or to the First Congregational Church We Care Food Pantry, 651 Phoenix Street, South Haven, Michigan 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Margarita Rodriguez Ochoa

Margarita Rodriguez Ochoa, 67, of South Haven, passed away Sunday, March 3, 2019 at her home under Hospice care. She was born June 7, 1951 to J. Salud Rodriguez and Virjinia Heredia in Michoacán, Mexico.

Margarita loved fishing and picking berries. She also enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren or trying her luck at the casino.

She is preceded in death by her parents and sister - Margarita.

Margarita is survived by her husband – Jesus Ochoa; children – Maria de los Angelest, Sandra, Nelida, Norma, Blanca, Marcos, Jesus and Jaime; and siblings – Ma. De Jesus, Ricardo, Graciela, Jesus, Alfonso, Rigoberto, Virjinia, Delia, Andres, Fernando and Javier.

Visitation was from 5-8 p.m., Wednesday, March 6, 2019 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home and from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Thursday, March 7, 2019 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services followed visitation at 1 p.m., Thursday at the funeral home. Margarita was laid to rest at Covert Cemetery. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.



Marion LaRue Toney

Marion LaRue Toney, 86, of South Haven, passed away Sunday, March 3, 2019 at his home under Hospice care with his family by his side. Marion was born Nov. 27, 1932 to Fax and Edna (Hudson) Toney in Berrien Center.

Marion married Betty Carter on Oct. 11, 1952 in Volinia. Marion started working on the family farm in Keeler Township at the age of nine. He graduated from Dowagiac Union High School in 1951. He received his American Farmers Award from the FFA. He later worked at Lovejoy in South Haven for 31 years, starting as a foreman and then as a project engineer. He had a gift for fixing machinery.

He loved to fish out on Lake Michigan and enjoyed riding his John Deere tractor. He was a member of the Michigan Flywheelers and was a former member of the Hartford School Board. Marion was a former Bishop of the Benton Harbor Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
Marion is survived by his wife – Betty Toney; children – Paula (Stephen) Egbert of San Diego, Calif., Michele (Gregg) Carlson of South Haven, Dale (Rene) Toney of Elkhart, Ind., Duane (Laura) Toney of Centerville, Utah, and Mark (Lori) Toney of South Haven; brother – Robert (Joan) Toney of Zephyr Hills, Fla.; 23 grandchildren and 37 great-grandchildren.
Visitation was from 9:30-11 a.m. on Saturday, March 9, 2019 at the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints in South Haven, 05272 73rd ½ street, South Haven, MI 49090. Funeral services followed the visitation at 11 a.m. with President Lincoln Osbon officiating at the church. Marion was laid to rest at Union Cemetery in Berrien Center. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Marion’s memory to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 or to the LDS Humanitarian Aid Fund. The family would like to thank Home Sweet Home and Southern Care Hospice for their kind support. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFh.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.



Week of March 3

Joe Johnson Sr.

In the early morning of Feb. 25, 2019, it pleased our heavenly Father to take away from us our dear and beloved father, grandfather and uncle, the illustrious Joe Johnson Sr. He was surrounded by his loving family as he transitioned on the birthday of his beloved wife, Dasie Mae Johnson.  What a birthday present for her!  He was 87 years and 11 months old.

We silently resign ourselves in the knowledge that God never makes a mistake.  We are grateful for all the memories we had with him and hold them with esteem.  We are not mourning without hope, we rejoice in the knowledge that we will meet again one day.

Illustrious Joe Johnson Sr. was born March 30, 1931 to Frank and Bertha (Gooden) Johnson in Wabash, Ark.  He was raised in Wabash as well as Chicago, Ill.  At the age of 19, he married his childhood friend and sweetheart, Dasie Mae Stormer on Nov. 25, 1950 in Wabash, a marriage of almost 60 years.

Soon after having their first child, Dorothy, he was drafted into the Army. Illustrious Joe was a proud military man working in the nuclear field and showed it by giving 21 years of his life to the service.  He achieved many recognitions while serving around the world.  He also served during the Korean Crisis and the Vietnam Conflict.  He retired from the Army September, 1974.  With his nuclear background he was able to get a job in 1974 at the Cook Nuclear Plant in Bridgman. There he earned awards before retiring in September, 1991.  He was also active with the Wilcox Eastman Salinas Post 160 of the American Legion where he once again earned certificates.

Once he was retired, illustrious Joe decided to start gardening along with his son Bernard.  He took pride in his garden and often gave away more than he kept to family and friends. Illustrious Joe Johnson gave his life to Christ at an early age at the Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church in Wabash, Ark.  In 1974 under the leadership of Rev. Henry Bland he joined New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church where several of his family members attended.  There he became a deacon, chairman of the deacon board, trustee, Sunday School superintendent and Bible study teacher and attended many Chain Lake meetings and conventions.  In addition, he was active in the Deacon’s Laymen organization until his health started failing.

For 29 years, illustrious Joe Johnson Sr. was a member of J. W. Hood #043 Lodge of Ralph Bunche Grand Lodge of the International Free & Accepted Modern Masons.  He loved his Masonic organization.  He attained many awards and was a 33rd degree.  Once again, he was an active member until his health started failing.

Illustrious Joe leaves to mourn:  daughters, Dorothy Coates and Marilyn Johnson of Bangor, Cynthia Johnson of Kalamazoo, Barbara Johnson of Otsego and Suzanne (Rick) Day of Yuma, Wash.; sons, Joe (Duffy) Johnson, Jr. of Benton Harbor, Carl Johnson of Muskegon, Raymond Johnson of St. Louis, Mo., Bernard (Terica) Johnson of Bangor, Kenneth (Debbie) Johnson of Allegan, Timothy (Angie) Johnson of Kalamazoo and stepson, Dusty Stormer of Cleveland, Ohio; 30 grandchildren; 44 great-grandchildren and 9 great-great-grandchildren;  two brothers-in-law, JB (Brenda) Stormer of Bedford Hts., Ohio and Theodis Stormer of Bangor; sisters-in-law, Ora Lee Stormer of Mississippi and Ann Johnson of Indiana.; many nieces and nephews including his specials Dolores Johnson of Port Huron, Annie B Dukes of Chicago, Ill. and Willie Houston of Chicago, Ill. and cousins.

He was preceded in death along with his wife and parents by grandson, Bobby Johnson and great-granddaughter, Kehlani Jonae Grace; brothers Joe, Eddie, Cleven and Edward Johnson; sisters Nesie Wright, Edna Dukes and Lillie B Nichols; sisters-in-law, Selener Stormer and Susie Mae Stormer; brothers-in-law, Johnny, Henry, Joe, Sr., Duster, Gus, Jamie, Aaron and Willie D.; and son-in-law, Willie Albert Coates.

Visitation will be held Saturday, March 9 at the New Jerusalem Baptist Church, Bangor, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. where the service will follow at 1 p.m.  Military honors will be held at 3:30 p.m. at Monks Cemetery, Geneva Township.  Arrangements entrusted to the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

Blanche Renee McGee

Blanche Renee McGee, age 53, passed away on Feb. 14, 2019 at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tenn.

Blanche Renee McGee

We honor the Father for giving us a lovely queen, mother, daughter, sister, glamma, niece, cousin and friend, Blanche Renee McGee.

“Renee,” as so many called her, was the first child born to the union of the Late Ronald McGee and Dorothy Elaine Holmes (McGee), on Sept. 25, 1965, in Watervliet.  Renee attended Lawrence Public Schools and Benton Harbor Public Schools, until her family moved to South Haven in 1975.  Renee resided with her loving parents, John Ernest and Dorothy Elaine Evans, and her siblings, Alexis Louise, James Thomas and Toyya LaVerne McGee, as well as their faithful House Security, Shababa.  Renee made many friends while attending school in South Haven, a lot of them that remained friends until her untimely passing.  Renee graduated with her GED from South Haven Public Schools, but that was not enough for her.  So, she went back to school to complete her high school courses so she could earn her high school diploma.  Renee was determined to get her high school diploma because she knew that she did not want her younger siblings to have one, and she did not.  So, in 1986, Renee earned her high school diploma, and was ready to take the “world by storm.”  When she was in high school, she was known to some, for being “the one you don’t mess with.”  But to others, she was known as “a good friend.”

Renee was the kind of friend that June Howell, Brenda “Breeze” Jordan, Jeannie Thomas, Lolisa “Lisa” Hampton, Carla Roark-Hunter and Lynette “Randi” Givhan could call on anytime they needed a friend to share their deepest, darkest secrets to.  And she knew that they were there to hear and listen to hers.  June, Randi, Brenda and Renee were known around town as the “4 musketeers,” and they had a bond that could never be broken.

One day, Renee met someone that had swept her off her feet and away from her musketeers.  But the love that she had for him could not separate the love and the memories that she had with them.  Charley Allen was the man that had come into her life to show her that her love for others could be spread amongst their children.  But, she never forgot about the memories or the love that she had for her friends.  So, Renee and Charley decided to start their own family. 

Renee gave birth to her first born son, Antwaun Demetrius Allen, who brought so much love, joy and peace to her and Charley, as well as her parents and siblings.  Shortly thereafter, they decided that they needed to expand their family, and they did.  Sierra Helen Allen was the only girl born to Renee and Charley, and she was their little princess.  And she still is their little princess!  Soon after, they were blessed with a third child, Deon JaQuan Allen.  Deon was a “ray of sun” for Antwaun, because now he knew that he was not the only boy taking on the little princess.  But, Deon had made room for a fourth sibling, Roberto Raphael Allen.  Roberto decided that he was not going to wait to make a grand appearance into the world, so he was born at his nana’s house, under the close supervision of his aunt Toyya.

Renee was a good mother to her children and a better glamma to her 13 grandchildren.  She loved spending time with her grandbabies, and she loved it when they wanted to spend time with her.  She knew in order for her children to have what they needed, she would have to work long hours to make sure that they did not go without.  Not only did she give love to her children, but she gave it to everyone else’s children too.  She showed her love by fostering at least 100 children or more.  Her heart was as big as her smile!

“Blanche,” as her Borgess Hospital family called her, always had a smile on her face that would light up any room that she walked into.  She spread her joy, her smile and her love to anyone that came in contact with her.  She made sure that she set aside time, at least once a month, to spend time with her coworkers. In her position as a PCA, she would develop friendships with the patients and their family, because she cared for the people that she took care of, and for the families that were going through it.  She made so many friends there, including adopting a couple of young ladies as her daughters.

When Renee resigned from her position at Borgess in 2017, her Borgess Family was sad to see her go, but they were happy that she was living her life.  In August 2017, Renee took her belongings, and moved to Clarksville, Tenn. to start a new position and make new friends.

Renee was living her dream, but still making sure that she stayed in contact with her loved ones and friends that she left behind.  Once she set up her home in Tennessee, then she got a position as a shift manager at Bojangles restaurant, where she had adopted a couple of her coworkers as her children.  She thought that she had left a lot of her friends in Michigan, but she found out that one of her Borgess family members was also living in Clarksville, Kristen, so she knew that is where she wanted to be.  Kristen and Steve treated her like she was a part of their family.  They made sure that she was not feeling lonely or that she was not without.  Renee was always the type of person that knew what she wanted, and would not ask anyone for it, but would go get what she wanted.  Even if it meant that she had to work even harder for it.  Renee was a fighter, when it came to getting what she wanted.  She fought all the way to the end! 

Renee leaves to cherish her memory; her mother, Dorothy Elaine Holmes, of Covert; her father, John Ernest (Lorraine) Evans, of Rock Hill, SC; her children, Antwaun (Samona) Allen of Kalamazoo; Sierra Allen of Kalamazoo; Deon (Athina) Allen of Kalamazoo; and Roberto Allen of Kalamazoo.  She also leaves her siblings, Alexis McGee of Covert, James (Tonya) McGee of Hartford, Toyya (Roger) Johnson of Kalamazoo, Edward Gaither of Rock Hill, SC, Maurice Crawford, of Rock Hill, SC, Crystal Crawford, of Rock Hill, SC, and John Robert Beason, Jr. of Grand Rapids: her grandchildren, Jalela Mae Carver-Allen, Avianna Pearline Allen, Ajamen Jamel Allen-Ozuzu, Jahrey James Allen, Neveah Nicole Allen, Antwaune Demetria Allen, Leilani Khalill Allen, Kairie Lee Allen, Antwaun Demetrius Allen Jr., Amarion Raphael Allen, Annalisa Leandra Allen, Osirus Tehray Allen, all of Kalamazoo, and Charlie Nicole Allen, of Atlanta, Ga.  Also surviving are her special friends Brenda Jordan, June Howell, Lynette Givhan, Charley Allen, Steve and Kristen Green, Clayton Jamar, Clayton Jamar Jr., and Khadafi Jamar.  Nieces Jaionna, Keonna and Myrqal McGee of Hartford, Erica Woods of Indianapolis, Ind., LaQuita Hickmon of Kalamazoo, Asharay Johnson of Ypsilanti and Tyler Shackelford of Detroit; nephews Kevin McIntosh of Lansing, Derek Anderson of Houston, Texas, Shiron Williams of Allegan, Kyle Roller of Detroit, Julian (Lariah) Hickmon of California, Dontre McGee of Kalamazoo, Kalieb Bowers of Kalamazoo, Eric Woods, Jr. of South Bend, Ind., and Asandre Johnson, of Westland; g reat nieces and nephews Deontae Walker of Kalamazoo, Brandon McKinstry, Madison and Apryl Hunt of Indianapolis, Ind., Mya Ledesma and Naomi Williams of Allegan, Zoe, Ishmial and Yazmine, all of Detroit; special mother Pearline Bridges of Covert; special sisters Ruthie Allen of Las Vegas, NV, Dorothy (Mike) Newell of Nebraska, Jimmie Bridges of Indianapolis, Ind., and Celestine Jeffries, of Covert; special brothers Nate Allen of Covert, Sammie Allen of California, and John Wilhite of California; special daughters Tina Clark of Atlanta, Ga. Michelle Hagan of Portage and Ferrien Nixon, of Kalamazoo; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, friends and adopted children.

Renee was preceded in death by her father Ronald McGee; maternal grandparents Eli (Lillian) Holmes and K.B. Ivory; paternal grandmother Christeen McGee; aunt LaVerne Mitchell and nephew, Trevon Thomas McGee.

A wake will be held from noon-1 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 9, 2019 at Emmanuel Community Church in South Haven. Funeral services will follow at 1 p.m. at the church with Pastor Sammie Allen officiating. Renee will be laid to rest at Hill Cemetery in Lawrence. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Thomas Edward O'Bryan

Thomas Edward O'Bryan of South Haven, Michigan passed away Feb. 7, 2019. Tom, a Michigan native, was born Feb 8, 1948 to Doris J. Fagan. Tom graduated from L.C. Mohr High School in South Haven in 1966. In 1970 he graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in economics and political science. He was a graduate student at Western Michigan University from 1971 until he moved to Boulder, Colo. in 1972.

Tom was a member of the Michigan National Guard from 1970 to 1972, and the United States Army Reserve, 244th Engr. Bn., Boulder, Colorado from 1972 to 1976. He received an Honorable Discharge from the military in 1976. Tom was a member of the American Legion.

As an entrepreneur he held many positions while living in Boulder, Colo.  In 1977, he founded and was president of Scorpio Enterprises, a spa business.  For a number of years his spa provided treatment for some of the U.S. Olympic teams competing in the "Bolder Boulder" races.  His inquisitive mind brought him to the legal profession where he became a paralegal specializing in bankruptcy proceedings.  During this same time, he opened Comspec Trading House Corp. specializing in future contracts.  Tom's final company was the Thomas E. O'Bryan Real Estate firm opened in 1996.  The business community held Tom in high regard.

He was preceded in death by his mother and brother, Doris Fagan and Benjamin Fagan.  His friends in Colorado and Michigan will miss him dearly.

Visitation will be held from 10-11 a.m., Monday, March 11, 2019 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services will follow visitation at 11 a.m. with Rev. Jeffrey S. Dick officiating. A time for fellowship and light refreshments will follow funeral services at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Tom’s memory to the First Church of God in South Haven, 567 Broadway St, South Haven, MI 49090, or to the First Congregational Church We Care Food Pantry, 651 Phoenix Street, South Haven, Michigan 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Martha E. Shinault

Martha E. Shinault, 84, of Grand Junction, passed away Friday, Feb. 22, 2019 at her home.  Martha was born Aug. 21, 1934 in Braggadocio, Mo., the daughter of Pleas and Mary (Tate) Cagle and lived in the Grand Junction area since the 1960s.

She was a member of Calvary Missionary Baptist Church of South Haven. She loved doing puzzles, sewing and especially playing with the babies.

Surviving are her 5 children, Paul (Brenda) Shinault of Grand Junction, Evelyn (David) Cripps of Grand Junction, Vickie Cripps of Grand Junction, Robert (Connie) Shinault of Grand Junction and Julie (Lance) Richmond of St. Joseph; 14 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; 2 sisters, Dian (Darnell) McPike of Grand Junction and Barbara Shelby of Caruthersville, Mo.; brother, Claudie (Wanda) Cagle of Holland; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Paul Shinault; brother, William Cagle; 3 sisters, Mary Alice Cagle, Irene Marie Phillips, Dorothy Clemons; and 1 great-grandson, Ivan Bustos.

The family met friends to celebrate her life Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2019 at Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, South Haven, where the funeral service was 1 p.m. with Paul Shinault officiating.  Interment followed in Grand Junction Cemetery, Columbia Township. The family suggests memorials be made to the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements entrusted to the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com







Week of Feb. 24

Mary Lynn Dunn (Kelly)

Mary Lynn Dunn (Kelly), 66, of South Haven, passed away on Feb. 1, 2019. Mary was a beloved wife and mother who adored spending time with her grandchildren. She enjoyed being out in nature, traveling with her husband, and taking care of her children, grandchildren and animals.  Mary had an adventurous spirit and no one would be surprised to see her covered in clay after a long day at the beach with her children or trampling through the woods, kids in tow, behind their home on one of her nature hikes.

Her proud Irish blood was always on display as she dressed up as a leprechaun, dancing the jig with her sisters on Saint Patrick’s Day.  Mary served as President of her children’s Swim Club for many years, founded and led a women’s Bible study group where she developed several deep friendships that lasted through the years and her water aerobics class was the highlight of the week for many. She hosted several successful bike tours, cooking spaghetti and pancakes for the 100’s, to raise money for Saint Basil’s Catholic Church and South Haven Aquatic Club (children’s swimming club).  A service celebrating Mary’s life will be held in the Spring or Summer in Michigan.

Mary is survived by her loving husband of 45 years, George Dunn; children, Mieko Dunn, Christopher (Kate) Dunn, Jennifer (Mark) Budd, and Kathryn Dunn; siblings, Robert Kelly, Christina Langkamp, Roberta Willis, Jacqueline Eckert, and Ginger Salton; and grandchildren, Jadyn Budd, Rylan Budd, Kaeden Dunn, Wilhelmina Dunn, and Ashlyn Budd.

Albert Wayne Hollis

Albert Wayne Hollis 78 of South Haven passed away Sunday, Feb. 17, 2019 at Grace of Douglas. He was born Aug. 18, 1940 to Albert and Dovie Hollis in Boonville Miss. He worked at Bohn Aluminum for 25 years then at Walmart as a greeter several years.  He was an ordained minister and loved working for our Lord. He leaves his wife of 40 years - Jerri Hollis; children Brian of Kalamazoo, Steven of Arizona and Steven Hopson of Saline; and six beloved grandchildren. He is also survived by three sisters - Christine Mobley of Holland, Faye Melton of South Haven and Barbara Ross of South Haven. Memorial service yet to be scheduled.

William “Whitey” Myrkle

William “Whitey” Myrkle, 93, of Bangor, passed away Saturday, Feb. 16, 2019 at his home.  William was born June 4, 1925 in Elgin, Ill., the son of the late Lawrence and Mary Myrkle and had lived in Bangor since 1957.

Whitey graduated from Dowagiac High School in 1943 and attended his graduation in 2013.  He honorably served his country as a member of the U.S. Navy both active and reserve for 7 years, serving during World War II.  In 1956 Whitey joined the Michigan State Police where he worked as a motor carrier officer until his retirement in 1992.

He was a lifetime member of the VFW and a member of American Legion Post 160. He was also a member of the Bangor Lions, Michigan Flywheelers, the 2-Cylinder Club and a life member of the Bangor Historical Society.

Surviving are his wife of 20 years, Sharon; 3 children, Greg (Elaine) of Bangor, Gene (Rebecca) of Rincon Ga., and Tina (Craig) Mitchell of Bangor; 2 stepchildren, William (Jill) Delor of Uniontown Pa. And Anne (David) Webster of Saugatuck; grandchildren, Andy (Sabrina) Graves of Burton, William Gregory Jr. of Bangor, Dawn Eisner of Paw Paw, Nichole Myrkle, Kelly Myrkle and Shawn Myrkle, all of Rincon Ga., Melodi Rigozzi of South Haven, Emily Webster of South Dakota, David Webster of Indianapolis, Ind., Emily Keith of Pittsburgh, Pa., and Daniel Keith of Uniontown, Pa.; 5 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a daughter Mary Kay Myrkle CSM of Alabama; his first wife Kathryn Myrkle; and 3 siblings, Larry Myrkle, Phyllis Hemenway and Ralph Myrkle.

The family met friends from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., Monday Feb. 18, 2019 at Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.  Funeral services took place at 1 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2019 at Bangor Church of Christ.  The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Bangor Historical Society Building Fund, Bangor Lions Club, Railroad Renegades or Heartland Hospice.





Week of Feb. 17

Glenn William Pietenpol

Glenn William Pietenpol, 76, of South Haven, passed away Monday, Feb. 11, 2019 at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo. He was born March 6, 1942 to Archie and Irene (TenHaken) Pietenpol in Sheboygan Falls, Wis.

Glenn earned his bachelor of arts degree from Hope College, his master's degree in Chemistry from the University of Notre Dame, and his National Graduate Trust degree from Northwestern University. He taught high school chemistry and algebra at Sparta High School and later became a senior vice president and trust officer for Chemical Financial Corp.
He leaves his wife of 52 years – Mary (Harmens) Pietenpol; children – Steven (Lisa) Pietenpol, David (Laura) Pietenpol, and daughter-in-law – Jody (Troy) Jennings; three beloved grandchildren – Ella, Ashlee, and Gage Pietenpol; a sister, Carol Debbink and a brother Dale (Sarah) Pientenpol; a brother-in-law Jack (Joan) Harmens; and many wonderful nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by a son – Brian, grandchildren – Mitchell and Abigail Pietenpol and also by his parents and a sister Ione Heinen.
“Big G’s” true joy was spending time watching his children and grandchildren. He was their biggest supporter at their athletic events, encouraged them in their academic pursuits, and was their biggest fan. One of his favorite pastimes was watching his beloved Green Bay Packers during the football season. One of his other passions was his commitment to the community, whether a Kiwanian in Midland or a Rotarian in South Haven. He always took time to “give back.” His service will be missed especially at the annual pancake breakfasts.
In that spirit, contributions may be made in Glenn’s memory to the Pietenpol Family Scholarship c/o Hope College, PO Box 9000, 141 East 12 Street, Holland, MI 49422 or to the South Haven Community Foundation, PO Box 507, South Haven, Michigan 49090.
A private family service will be held at a later date. The family would like to thank all of Glenn’s friends and family for celebrating his life with him in the last two months with their visits, calls, cards, emails, and texts. It was truly a special time for Glenn. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Week of Feb. 10

Winalee Kay Dickson

Winalee Kay Dickson passed away peacefully at home Friday, Feb. 1, 2019 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Winalee was born Nov. 30, 1951 to Elizabeth and Glenn Hamblin.

She married Michael Dickson in 1974 in Jackson. Win is survived by her husband Michael Dickson of South Haven and sibling Theodore Hamblin of Jackson, along with sisters-in-law Pam Stanberry of Wichita, Kansas, Debi (Richard) Wagner of Adrian, Molly Dickson of Tennessee, Pam (Al) Dickson of Waldron, and several nieces and nephews.

Win owned Graham Travel in South Haven for many years and was an avid traveler herself. Win had unconditional love for animals and volunteered for Al-Van Humane Society. Over the past few years she enjoyed perennial gardening and designed lovely flower beds at her home. Her Christian faith was strong and she was a member of St. Basil Catholic Church.

Special thanks go to Cathy Whitfield, Kimosha Smith, and Monica Rice who tirelessly provided excellent and loving care to Win during her final days. Known for her sense of humor and strong sense of independence, Win will be greatly missed by her friends and family.

Visitation was from 6-8 p.m., Monday, Feb. 4, 2019 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home. Funeral mass was at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2019 at St. Basil Catholic Church with Fr. Jim Morris officiating. Contributions may be made in Win’s memory to Al-Van Humane Society, P.O. Box 421, South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Marion I. Kansier

Marion I. Kansier, age 94, of Eastpointe, went home to be with our Lord on Jan. 31, 2019. 
She joins Claire, her beloved husband of 56 years, parents Elsa and Carl Rehahn, and sister Ruth (Charles) Stapleton.

Loving mother of Leah Kansier Simonsen, wonderful grandmother of Kaitlyn, Stacia and Jamison. Also survived by sister-in-laws Cara and Dolores, many nieces and nephews, very dear cousins, and Rodney Simonsen.

Preceded in death by sisters- and brothers-in-law,  Eleanor (Allan) Loding, Roger Kansier and William Standbridge.

Marion lived her life almost on the same block.  She was born in Erin Township which incorporated into the Village of Halfway, then the City of East Detroit and now Eastpointe.  She was a successful career woman as an office manager in downtown Detroit for 17 years until becoming a homemaker when her daughter was born.  She was always very involved in her church. Marion was very kind at all times, and very wise, yet had a keen wit.
Above all, Marion was a faithful woman, entirely devoted to loving her husband, daughter, and her three granddaughters, in whom she took incredible pride and joy. 
Family received friends from 2-9 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2019 at the A.H. Peters Funeral Home, 32000 Schoenherr at Masonic, in Warren. Instate Wednesday 10 a.m. until time of service 11 a.m. at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, 23000 Gratiot Ave., Eastpointe. 
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter's Lutheran Church Foundation or Samaritas, formally Lutheran Social Services of Michigan. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.



Ronald Dal Vochaska

Ronald Dal Vochaska, 82, of South Haven, passed away in his sleep on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2019 at his home at River Ridge Retirement Community under Hospice care. He was born April 20, 1936 to Dal and Millie (Lesk) Vochaska in Chicago, Ill.

Ron married Leeanne Schabbel on Jan. 13, 1954 in South Haven. They shared 65 years in marriage. Ron was a self-employed mechanic who raced cars his entire life including his No. 61 stock car and Ruff ‘n’ Ready at the drag strip. Ron raced at Martin Dragway, Berlin, Kalamazoo, Galesburg, and M-40 speedways in Michigan and South Bend and Plymouth speedways in Indiana among many others. Ron also enjoyed his CB radios and playing cribbage.

He is survived by his wife – Leeanne Vochaska of South Haven; children – Vern (Paula) Vochaska, Jeff Vochaska, and Vicki Vochaska Tripp all of South Haven; and grandchildren – Alan (Erin) Vochaska, Josh Vochaska Tripp, Caleb Vochaska, and Isabella Vochaska.

The family would like to thank Southern Care Hospice and River Ridge Retirement Community for their unwavering care and compassion. The family also asks that donations to Southern Care Hospice be made in Ron’s name in lieu of flowers.
Services are not scheduled at this time. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Week of Feb. 3

Rosemary Ann Insidioso

Rosemary Ann Insidioso, 81, of South Haven and formerly of Bangor, passed away peacefully Tuesday, January 29, 2019 at Rose Arbor Hospice Residence with family by her side.  Rosemary was born July 23, 1937 in South Haven, the daughter of the late Alfred and Maurine Andrus, and had lived the majority of her life in the Bangor area.

Rosemary was a graduate of Nazareth College and had worked for many years as a social worker.  Surviving are her 2 daughters, Barbara (John Dentzman) Insidioso and Nancy Insidioso; 2 grandchildren, Maya and Emmanuel Insidioso-Tucker; 3 sisters, Kathleen Selivanoff, Margaret (Robert) Carretta and Patricia Andrus; a sister-in-law Eugenie Insidioso; nieces and nephews, Julie Hernan, Beth Golden, Jenny Sullivan, Bob Carretta, Jim Carretta, Kira Shaw, Rochelle Palanca and Julie Insidioso; and several great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Robert, whom she married May 6, 1961, a brother-in-law, Richard Insidioso, and a nephew, Michael Insidioso.  Tentative services follow, please check www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com for any updates.  The family will meet friends from 5-7 p.m., Friday, Feb. 8, 2019 with a Rosary service at 6:30 p.m. at the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home.  Mass of Christian burial will take place at 11 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 9, at St. Basil Catholic Church.  The family suggests memorial contributions be made to either St. Basil Catholic School or Al Van Humane Society.

Clayton E. Myers Jr.


Clayton E. Myers Jr., 87, of Bloomingdale, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2019 at Medilodge of Holland. Clayton was born on Oct. 22, 1931 in Kalamazoo, the son of Clayton (Sr.) and Hulda Myers. Clayton worked for Rockwell International for over 30 years before retiring in 1989. He enjoyed his time working on old classic cars, traveling, attending auction sales and spending time with his family. He was a member of the American Legion Post #49, the Kalamazoo Antique Auto Restorers Club, Model A Ford Club of America and a life member of Bloomingdale Hudson Lodge #221 of the Free and Accepted Masons. Clayton lived in the Bloomingdale area most of his life.

He is survived by his children, Gail Munn of Gobles, Bruce Myers of Lake Linden, Linda (Roger) Latham of Allegan, Brian (Lucia) Myers of Gobles, Ronda (Fred) Robinson of Hamilton and Karla Schackow of Holland; grandchildren, Tammy Bauer, Jimmy Munn Jr., Tracy Kernodle, Ryan Munn, Richard Myers, Brian Myers, Hayley Serdel, Ashley Burmeister, Mallory Blacksten, Alex and Garrett Palmer, and Jimmy and Matthew Schackow; 17 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death  by his wife, Carol Myers; son-in-law, Larry Burke; son-in-law, Jim Munn; a sister, Maxine Myers; and grandson, Kelly Myers.

The family will meet friends from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 4, 2019 at the Bloomingdale Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home with a Masonic Service and Military Honors to begin at 1 p.m. Cremation to follow.  Burial will be in Mallory Cemetery at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to the Bloomingdale Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com



Ruth V. Stein

Ruth V. Stein, 103, of South Haven, passed away Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019 at South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Community. She was born Jan. 30, 1915 to Ross and Gail (Maxfield) Dilley in Parma, Idaho.

She married Ivan Stein on May 5, 1932 in South Haven. They shared 64 years in marriage before his passing in 1996. Ruth owned and operated Marinello Beauty Salon in South Haven for over 40 years. She was an avid reader and golfer and also prided herself on her investment strategies and success. Ruth and Ivan had many travel adventures that took them to all parts of the world and they were both involved in local and state government. She was honored by the South Haven Rotary Club with the Paul Harris Fellow Award.

She was preceded in death along with her parents and husband by a son – Charles “Chuck” Stein and siblings – Varnum Dilley, Louise Prange, Eilleen Wood and Jacqueline Trainor.

Ruth is survived by her daughter – Julie (Tom) Taylor of Venice, Fla., daughter-in-law – Jean Stein of South Haven, five grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, four great-great grandchildren, and loving caregiver – Rhonda Bradford.
Visitation will be held from 10-11 a.m. on Saturday, June 8, 2019 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Memorial services will follow visitation at 11 a.m. with Rev. Jeffrey S. Dick officiating at the funeral home. Contributions may be made in Ruth’s memory to We Care INC, 06321 Blue Star Hwy, South Haven, Michigan 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.



Week of Jan. 27

Dorothy (Dol) Rose Freed Christison

Dorothy (Dol) Rose Freed Christison passed away Monday, Jan. 21, 2019 just hours after her 102nd birthday at Bronson Hospital in South Haven. She was born Jan. 21, 1917 to Elmer and Julia Rose (Zimmerman) Freed in South Bend, Ind.

Dol’s passion for life and dance never faded from her life. She learned her first tap steps from her father and mother who were competitive ballroom (waltz) dancers. She became a champion ballroom dancer herself later in life, winning many competitions in New York. She opened her first dance studio soon after graduating from Elgin High School, Elgin, Ill. in 1935, teaching ballet and tap in Moline, Ill. Her first date with George Lee Christison was a ride in an open cockpit bi-plane and was love at first sight for her. She married George Christison July 10, 1938 at St Mark's Lutheran Church in Davenport, Iowa.

They started their married life in Tucson, Ariz.. where Dol taught at Potter School for Girls and Greenfields School while George continued his career as a broadcaster for KVOA. They also owned and operated a chicken ranch, “Esperanza,” adjacent to the Sequoia National Forest.

She was an active volunteer for the Red Cross and USO. They returned to Moline following World War II and operated the Christison Pharmacy and Dol taught dance at her own studio and at St. Katherine's in Davenport, Iowa. George’s career move to McKesson and Robbins took the couple to Burlington, Iowa where Dol continued teaching ballet, tap and now ballroom. She choreographed Oklahoma and Bells Are Ringing for the Civic Theater in Burlington.

After a move to Wilton, Conn., Dol expanded her interests to include real estate, which led to a 53-year career and her own office. She kept her real estate certification active until 2018.

She was a founding member of the Wilton Arts Council and Young Horizons which brought professional artists from various fields to perform and share their art with the Wilton School students. She was an avid supporter of Ballet Etudes and continued her commitment to the arts by becoming a board member for the Connecticut Council for the Arts and the Council on Aging. She volunteered many hours over the years to the Yankee Fair for the Wilton Congregational Church, The Wilton Garden Club and was lifelong Girl Scout and leader.

Dol performed for six years in the Florida Follies in Boca Raton, Fla. Performances benefited under-privileged children in Florida.

Dol was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Thomas Freed (World War II prisoner of war) her husband George, grandson Paul and grandson Travis Stivers.

Dorothy is survived by her daughters Julie (Jerry) Portman of South Haven and Pamela Stivers of Cuenca, Ecuador; 5 grandchildren Stephanie (Rob) Surns, Jennifer (Dave) Kindt, Brenda (Rob) Kindt, Nicole Portman and Geory Stivers; her 11 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

Memorial services were at 2 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 26, 2019 with Deacon John Lohrstorfer at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Dorothy will be laid to rest at the Riverside Cemetery in Moline, Ill. The family is grateful for the compassionate and loving care Dol received at Bronson South Haven Hospital. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Dorothy Marie Russell

Dorothy Marie Russell, 97, of South Haven, passed away Thursday, Jan. 17, 2019 at Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community in South Haven. She was born May 3, 1921 to Clyd W. and Lillian (Dickens) Winkleblec in Jacksonville, Fla.

She married Milan Russell on Aug. 15, 1942 at the Naval Air Station Chapel in Corpus Christi, Texas. They shared 52 years of marriage before his passing in 1994. Dorothy was a devoted home maker with her primary concern being raising her family. She did work as a school secretary and for Sears and Robuck in Howell. She enjoyed playing bridge and loved singing in the church choir and Fun chorus. She was a member of St. Basil Catholic Church in South Haven and Saint Francis of Assisi Church in Englewood, Fla.
She is survived by her son – Ray (Lucia) Russell of South Haven and grandchildren – Andy (Stef) Russell of Bangor and Paul (Alicia) Russell of South Haven. Nine great-grandchildren also survive.
Visitation was from noon-1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2019 at St. Basil Catholic Church in South Haven. Funeral Mass was at 1 p.m. at the church with Fr. Jim Morris officiating. Contributions may be made in Dorothy’s memory to St. Basil Catholic Church, 513 Monroe Boulevard, South Haven, MI 49090 or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Helen Reinhardt

Helen Reinhardt, 97, of Bangor, passed away Friday, Jan. 18, 2019 in South Haven.  Helen was born Sept. 15, 1921 in Sodus, the daughter of the late William and Pauline Zwar and had lived in the Bangor area since 1950.

Helen was a farmer's wife and was truly proud of her 6 children.  She loved gardening as well as going to several auctions over the years.  Helen was also a wonderful baker and later in life became an avid quilter. She was also a dedicated long-time member of Bangor Church of Christ. 

Surviving are her children, Lee (Luanne), Candis (Bill) Yankovich, Chris (Rick) Jarvis, Billie (Randy) Pitcher and Tom (Barbara); 14 grandchildren; several great- and great-great-grandchildren; 2 sisters in law, Vera Zwar and Arbutus Zwar; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Fred whom she married Dec. 6, 1940; a son, Fred Edward Jr.; a grandson, Timothy Collins; her parents as well as 3 brothers and a sister.

Funeral services were Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2019 at Bangor Church of Christ.  Interment followed in Arlington Hill Cemetery.  The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Bangor Church of Christ.  Arrangements entrusted to the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com. 

Robert Edward Oden

Robert Edward Oden, 72, of Casco Township, passed away Friday, Jan. 18, 2019 at the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville, Tenn. He was born Nov. 2, 1946 to Paul Edward and Zula Mae (Green) Oden in Nectar, Ala.

Robert served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam conflict. He worked at Everett Piano Factory and retired from Request Foods in Holland. He enjoyed working in his garden.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife - Lida (Ridley) Oden in 2005, brother – Wayne, and sister – Nellie.

He is survived by his wife – Judy Oden; sons – Paul (Toni) Oden of Radcliffe, Iowa and Michael (Jennifer) Oden of Greenwood, Ind.; grandchildren – Jessica, Kaitlynn and Erica; great-grandchildren - Briceon, Logan, Kingsley and MaryJane; brother – William Oden of Blountsville, Ala., and sister - Thelma Sayler of Sallis, Miss.
Visitation was from 6-8 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 21, 2019 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral Services were at 2 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 22 at Casco United Methodist Church with Pastor Don Graham officiating. Robert was laid to rest in McDowell Cemetery, Casco Township. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333.

John V. Mercado

John V. Mercado, 88, of South Haven, passed away Sunday, Jan. 20, 2019 in South Haven. He was born Aug. 7, 1930 to Raymond and Juanita (Valencia) Mercado in Arecibo, Puerto Rico.

John loved to bowl and enjoyed walks on the pier. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family and reading the Bible.
He is preceded in death along with his parents by three sons – John Jr., Ray and Mathew Mercado, and siblings – Phillip, Carmelo, Emmett, Lin, and Rosie Mercado.
John is survived by his children – James Mercado of Bangor, Lawrence Mercado of Bangor, Michael (Gayle) Mercado of South Haven and Juanita Mercado of South Haven, and siblings – Tony Mercado of Puerto Rico, and Josephine Mercado of Connecticut. Nine grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren also survive.
Visitation was from noon-1 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 24, 2019 at First Church of God in South Haven. Memorial services followed visitation at 1 p.m. with Pastor Steve Stark officiating at the church. Contributions may be made in John’s memory to First Church of God, 567 Broadway St., South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Dawn Michele Meister

Dawn Michele Meister, 41, of Battle Creek, passed away at her home on Jan. 22, 2019. She was born on Aug. 17, 1977 in Columbus, Ohio. Dawn cherished her time with her children and family. She loved the outdoors, nature, and animals. Family trips to the family cottage in Canada were some of her happiest times. She graduated from Hillsdale High School in 1995. She recently began college courses to earn a degree in pharmacology.

Her family and friends will remember Dawn for her smile, her sense of humor and her creativity. Dawn was proud of her Native American heritage. A line from a favorite of hers, “Native American Prayer for the Grieving,” will remain with those who loved and knew Dawn. “I am with you still in each new dawn.”
She is preceded in death by her grandparents Tom and Helen Dunlap of Ohio and Herbert and Bev Meister of North Carolina.
Dawn is survived by her parents – Rev. David and Denise Meister of South Haven; children – Darian, Justice, Heaven and Stephen-Chad Meister; brother – Michael Meister of Nappanee, Ind. and his family; and her aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. She leaves behind a beloved friend Connie Remick and her family cats.

Dawn will be cremated according to her wishes. Private family services will be held at a later date to celebrate Dawn’s life. Contributions may be made in Dawn’s memory to the Al Van Humane Society, PO Box 421, South Haven, MI 49090. 

Paul J. Huffman

Paul J. Huffman, 77, of Bangor, passed away Sunday, January 20, 2019 at his home.  Paul was born June 15, 1941 in Portageville, Mo., the son of Emery and Jeanette (Durbin) Huffman and lived in the Bangor area for many years.  He was a hard worker, and very generous man. He was a great brother.  Surviving are his brother, Robert (Betty) Huffman of Bangor; sister, Judy (Dan) Coulson of Coopersville; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by 7 brothers and sisters, Betty Jean Luttral, James Huffman, Maryann Goldsmith, Catherine Simmons, Margaret Huffman, Gary Huffman and Richard Huffman.

According to his wishes cremation has taken place and there will be no services at this time. Arrangements entrusted to the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com





Week of Jan. 20

Oscar Bergstrom Jr.

Oscar Bergstrom Jr. 88 of South Haven passed away peacefully, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2019, under the care of Hospice, at his home, surrounded by his family.

Oscar was born Oct. 29, 1930 in South Haven to Oscar E. and Mary (Brown) Bergstrom. He spent his entire life in South Haven and graduated from South Haven High School in 1949. He retired in 1981 from Bohn Aluminum after 32 years.

Oscar married the love of his life, Wanda Ketchum, on July 10, 1959 at Allegan United Methodist Church. They shared 59 years of happy married life together.

He attended Glenn United Methodist Church. Oscar had a love for life and was always kind to everyone he met. He especially loved animals of any kind. Oscar enjoyed golfing, bowling, fishing, square dancing and snowmobiling.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Charles and his wife Marion, sister-in-law Marie Bergstrom, brother-in-law Edward Kozlowski, and special friend Kim Lynch.

Oscar is survived by his wife, Wanda; brother James, sisters Christine Kozlowski and Carol (Butch) Noykos. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Oscar will be lovingly missed by all.

Visitation was from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2019 at Glenn United Methodist Church. Memorial services followed at 11 a.m. at the church with Rev. Harold Filbrandt officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Glenn United Methodist Church, 1395 Blue Star Highway, Glenn, MI 49416 or Al Van Humane Society, P.O. Box 421, South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 269-637-0333.

Oswald A. Eisen

Oswald A. Eisen, 92, of Bangor, passed away Jan. 12, 2019 at his home.  Oswald was born March 21, 1926 in St. Joseph, the son of Albert and Marie (Rex) Eisen, and lived in the Bangor area for the majority of his life.

He served with the U.S. Army during World War II. He was a loving father and grandfather, was well known and well liked.

Surviving are his 2 children, Robert Eisen of Bangor and Anne Snider of Bangor; 5 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; 2 sisters, Dorothy Saltzman of Watervliet and Eleanor Fish of Watervliet; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Louise and 2 brothers, Herbert Eisen and Eric Eisen.

According to his wishes cremation has taken place, and a memorial service will be at a later time. Arrangements entrusted to the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home. The family suggests memorials be made to the family to help with services. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com   



Malcolm “Manny” James Irwin

Malcolm “Manny” James Irwin, 62, of South Haven passed away Thursday, Jan. 10, 2019 in his home. He was born Feb.11, 1956 to Frank and Mildred (Holt) Irwin in Sault Ste. Marie. He graduated from Rudyard High School in 1974.

Manny served his country in the U.S. Navy for six years. Manny married Linda (Andersen) Irwin on Feb. 25, 1978 in Lake Tahoe, Nev. He worked as an independent consultant in nuclear energy for many years. Manny loved to gamble and considered Las Vegas to be his second home. He also loved spending time with his grandchildren and playing cards with friends.

Manny is preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife, Linda and children – Steve (Heather) Irwin of Hopewell Junction, NY, Nikki (Matt) DeRosia of St. Joseph; and Heather (Jason) Vanlandingham of South Haven; grandchildren – Chloe, Mason, Silas and Amelia; siblings – Mike (Sara) Irwin of Bloomington, Ind., Mitch Irwin of Ann Arbor, Millard Irwin of Kincheloe, Moe (Angie) Irwin of Beaverton and Mia (Bill) Wheeler of Marshall.

A visitation took place from 2-4 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 13, 2019 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. A visitation was also from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., Monday, Jan. 14, at Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Haven. Funeral services followed at 11 a.m. at the church with Pastor Travis Wilson officiating. Manny was laid to rest at the Peace Lutheran Memorial Garden in South Haven. In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church at 06321 Blue Star Highway, South Haven, MI 49090 or to the American Legion Post #49, 129 Michigan Avenue, South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.



Tasha Renee Brower

Tasha Renee Brower, 27, of South Haven, passed away Sunday, Jan. 13, 2019 at her home in Geneva Township. She was born Oct. 10, 1991 to Shona Sorenson-Brower and Joseph Kohloff in South Haven. Tasha graduated with the South Haven Class of 2009. She was a certified nursing assistant. She later worked as a call center representative for Dialog Direct in Holland.
She is preceded in death by her adoptive father – Mark Brower.
Tasha is survived by her son – Elliot; mother – Shona Sorenson-Brower of South Haven; brothers – Joshua Moore of Kalamazoo, and Aydan Kohlhoff and Benjamin Jensen, both of South Haven; biological father – Joseph Kohlhoff of South Haven and grandparents – Eugene and JoAnn Sorenson of South Haven and Barbara Brower of Allegan.

Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 21, 2019 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2019 at the funeral home with Rev. Jeffrey S. Dick officiating. Tasha will be laid to rest at Monk Cemetery in Geneva Township. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Leonard J. Ulam

Leonard J. Ulam, 74, of Bangor, passed away Friday, Jan. 11, 2019 at his daughter's home in Bangor.  Leonard was born March 30, 1944 in Douglas, the son of Charles and Doris (Parish) Ulam, and had lived the majority of his life in the Bangor area. He enjoyed working on lawn mowers and was known as the lawn mower man, any small engine could be fixed. He was grandpa and dad to everybody. Surviving are his wife, Sue whom he married June 27, 1964; 5 daughters, Sherry Schultz of Bangor, Theresa (Kevin) Geary of Niles, Misty (Jonathan) Kannenberg of Missouri, Jamie (Jeremy Belin) Ulam of Bangor and Hope (Phil) Thompson of Bangor; 17 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; and many many adopted children and grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by 2 brothers and 2 sisters. The family met meet friends 5-6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 14, 2019, at Bangor Free Methodist Church, 304 W. Douglas, where there was a memorial service at 6 p.m. According to his wishes cremation has taken place.

Arrangements entrusted to the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home. The family suggests memorials be made to the American Cancer Society.   www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com



Week of Jan. 13

David Russell Fritz

On the morning of Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2019, David Russell Fritz passed away peacefully at home. 
David was born March 15, 1963 to Jerold and Nancy (Boutilier) Fritz. He spent the majority of his younger years doing construction and owned his own construction business. He also spent many years driving a cab.

He met his wife Bridget VanOrder in 1987 and they married on March 2, 1999. 

David was preceded in death by his father, Jerold Fritz, and his brother, Mark Fritz.
He is survived by his wife, Bridget; his children, Joshua, Samantha, Stephany, Jonathan and Joseph; and four grandchildren, Ann Marie Kaleff, Natalie Fritz, Knolyn Fritz and Haylie Fritz; and his mother, Nancy Anderson.

He will forever be remembered for his quick humor, his love for his family, and, of course, his ever-present mustache. 

Services are not scheduled at this time. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Erwin D. Watson

Erwin D. Watson, Sr., 79, of South Haven, passed away Friday, Jan. 4, 2019 at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo. He was born June 10, 1939 to Lloyd and Jessie Watson in Flint.  Erwin married Patricia Koblinski on Sept. 28, 1957 in Flint. They shared 40 years of marriage before her passing in 1997.

Erwin was ahead of his time as a stay-at-home dad.  He enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He had a passion for animal husbandry along with gardening. His passion for raising milk goats led him to receiving a best in state goat milking production award and his breeding of chihuahuas produced a Grand Champion (CT). Erwin was a member of St. Basil Catholic Church.

Erwin is preceded in death by his parents; his wife – Patricia Watson; and brothers – Velden and Frankie Watson, and sisters – Jeannie Wellman and Corinna Slavich.

He is survived by his children – AnnaMarie Deater (Dennis Etter) of Grand Haven,  Erwin (Vonnie) Watson, Jr. of South Haven, and Roxann (Don) Merrill of Grand Junction; brother – Allie Watson of Flint; 10 grandchildren - Mike, Jenny (Jennifer), Trina, Amanda, Debbie, Buddy (Erwin), DJ (Daniel), Carl, Alex (Alexandra) and Deena; 13 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation was from 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 8, at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home. A scripture service took place at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday. Visitation was also at 10 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 9. Mass of Christian Burial followed at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 9, at St. Basil Catholic Church in South Haven with Fr. Jim Morris officiating. Erwin was laid to rest in Stephenson Cemetery, Casco Township. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Caring Circle Hospice, 05055 Blue Star Highway, South Haven, MI 49090, or The American Heart Association, 208 LaSalle St., Suite 1500, Chicago, IL 60604-1242. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-03333.



Week of Jan. 6

Norbert Boutcher

Norbert Boutcher, 82, of Grand Junction passed away Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2018 at Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community in South Haven. Norbert was born on July 18, 1936 in Blue Island, Ill. the son of Joseph and Rose Boutcher, and lived in Hegewisch, Ill. before moving to Grand Junction in 2002.

Besides working for Ford Motor Company for over 30 years, he spent time watching television but enjoyed most working in his garden and growing his vegetables. He really enjoyed talking about how well his green beans were. Surviving are his wife, Eleanor Boutcher, whom he married July 19, 1958; six children, Steve Boutcher of Grand Junction, Adam (Roseanne) Boutcher of Dyer, Ind., Patricia(Eric) Lunde of Omaha, Neb., Geraldine(Williard) Freeman of Dyer, Ind., Anthony(Lorraine) Boutcher of Lansing, Ill. and Tim (Jackie) Boutcher of Mount Greenwood, Ill.;  and grandchildren Shirley, Samantha, Erica, Ryan, Matthew, Emily, Michael, Katie, Jason, Keith and Kevin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Maryann Boutcher; four brothers, Ray, Joe, Bob and Edward; and two sisters, Louise and Helen.

The family met friends from 2-5 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 3, 2019 with a rosary service at 4:30 PM at the Bangor Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com. A funeral mass was 11 a.m., on Jan. 4 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Monsignor Mike Hazzard officiating. According to his wishes cremation followed the mass, and burial of cremains will take place at a later date in St Francis Xavier Cemetery, Columbia Township.

Michael “Mick” Robert Kasper, Jr.

Michael “Mick” Robert Kasper Jr., 58, of Plainwell, passed away Friday, Dec. 28, 2018 at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo. He was born Dec. 5, 1960 to Michael and Barbara (Annerino) Kasper, Sr., in Chicago.

Mick married Geralyn Zawacki on June 16, 1990. They shared 28 years of marriage. He worked as a chemical operator at Albemarle for 26 years, retiring in 2016 for medical reasons. He loved riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle but most of all he loved spending time with his wife, grandchildren, family and friends. Although he struggled for years with health issues, he lived life to the fullest with a smile, laugh, or a song. He will forever be remembered for his hugs and “I love you” for everyone he knew.
He is preceded in death by his father, Micheal Kasper Sr..
Michael is survived by his wife, Geralyn Kasper; mother - Barbara (Eugene) Hopper of Statesboro, Ga.; children – Keith (Jennifer) Kasper of Plainwell, and Tiffany Kasper (Chuck) Peck of Scotts; Grandchildren – Zander Kasper, Vivian Kasper, Brianna Young, Alaina Conant, Nathan Peck and Hailey Peck; and siblings – Robert (Elizabeth) Kasper of Statesboro, Ga., Christopher (Anh) Hopper of Houston, Texas and Charles (Christin) Hopper of Statesboro, Ga. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
Visitation was from 1-2 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 5, 2019 at LifeBridge Church, 10420 M-140, South Haven. Funeral services followed visitation at 2 p.m. at the church with Pastor Milan Bittenbender officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.



Birger “Dick” Olsen

Birger “Dick” Olsen, 79, of South Haven, passed away, with his wife by his side, from Lewy Body Dementia Friday, Dec. 28, 2018 at his home under the care of Caring Circle Hospice at Home. He was born Sept. 16, 1939 to Edwin Birger and Janet (Ford) Olsen in New York City.

Dick graduated from Syracuse University with a bachelor’s degree. He worked for Fisher Body for 37 years in Pittsburgh and Kalamazoo until his retirement in 1999.

Dick married Sandra McCrath on June 23, 1962 in Utica, NY. They shared 56 years in marriage. Dick enjoyed serving on the board for the South Haven Center for the Arts. He also volunteered for the VITA program. Dick enjoyed volunteering his time helping others.
Dick is survived by his wife – Sandy Olsen of South Haven; children – Eric Olsen of Denver, Colo., Heather (Rona) Olsen of San Francisco, Calif., and Kirsten (Haig) Marino of Brooklyn, NY; twin brother – Edwin (Catherine) Olsen of Montclair, NJ, and brother - Geoffrey Olsen of Spring Valley, NY; and grandson – Thorsten Marino.
Private graveside services will be held at Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven with Rev. Donald H. Wheat officiating. The Olsen family received friends and family from 2-5 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 3, 2019 at the Olsen home in South Haven. Contributions may be made in Dick’s memory to the South Haven AAUW Scholarship Fund. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-03333.



2018 Obituaries

Week of Dec. 30

Lenetta Aldridge

Lenetta Aldridge, 58, of South Haven, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2018, at her home under Hospice care. She was born Sept. 23, 1960 to James and Samuella (O’large) Turman in South Haven. Lenetta loved to shop, spend time with her family and grow plants.
She is survived by her children – Kenneth Morrison, Jr. and La’Shawnda (Alex) Smith; siblings – David (Doris) Aldridge, Leslie Turman, Starlyn Aldridge, Michael Aldridge, George (Rosita) Aldridge, Sam Turman, Jimmy Turman and Adam Turman; and four grandchildren – Kenneth III, Ke-Shawn, Alexandria and Makela.
Wake will be held from 11 a.m.-noon on Saturday, Jan. 5, 2018 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services will follow the wake at noon at the funeral home. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333.

Barbara Karen Aviles

Barbara Karen Aviles, 70, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2018 at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo. She was born Feb. 23, 1948 to John and Alice (Omlie) Hunt in Portland, Ore.

Barbara graduated from Bloomingdale High School in 1966. She went on to earn a nursing degree from Southwestern Michigan College and worked as a registered nurse for 18 years before her retirement in 2013. Barbara enjoyed shopping on QVC and HSN. She loved her critters and scrap booking. Barbara also enjoyed flower gardening, sightseeing, dancing, swimming and reading.

She was voted best dancer in high school. Barbara was a true Trekkie and loved watching Star Trek.
She is preceded in death along with her parents and her sisters – Janice Malek and Claudia Jerek.
Barbara is survived by her children – Carl (Denise) Bodfish of Leslie, Karen (David) Barker of Grand Junction and Christopher Aviles of Citrus Heights, Calif.; grandchildren – Keirstin and Kamren Bodfish, Katie (Casey) Perkins, and Cody (Kaitlin) Farrell, Gelacio “Hal” Aviles, and Diesel and Haylee Barker; siblings – Richard and Douglas Hunt both of Albuquerque, NM and Robyn Blakeney of Tennessee, and aunt – Hazel Schmieder of Los Angeles, Calif.
Visitation will be from 11 a.m.-noon, Monday, Dec. 31, 2018 at Lacota United Methodist Church. Funeral services will follow visitation at noon with Pastor Michael Pinto officiating. Barbara will be laid to rest at the Lee Township Cemetery. A luncheon will follow services at the Pullman VFW Post, 5632 109th Ave, Pullman, MI 49450.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Barbara’s memory to Al Van Humane Society, PO Box 421, South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333.



Ruth Louise Dibble

Ruth Louise Dibble, our loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, passed away Dec. 22, 2018, at age 90, at Hanson Hospice Center in Stevensville.

Ruth was born in Breedsville on Oct. 12, 1928, to Charles Edward Fuller and Louise (Stanley) Fuller. Ruth resided most of her life in South Haven and worked for South Haven Rubber Company until retirement. She was a member of the South Haven Moose Lodge and the American Legion.

Ruth was preceded in death in 1990 by her husband, Jack Lyle Dibble.

Ruth is survived by her children Ran Dibble (Lorriane), Gail Pratt (Mike) and Bonnie Dibble (Terry Taylor) all of the South Haven area, and April Dibble Holmes (Dan Holmes) of Ventura, Calif.  She left behind a legacy of 12 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Margaret Daugherty of Muncie, Ind. 

Visitation was from noon-1 p.m., Dec. 29, 2018, at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. The memorial service was at 1 p.m., following the visitation. Ruth was laid to rest at the Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven.

Contributions may be made in Ruth’s memory to South Haven Memorial Library, 314 Broadway St., South Haven, MI 49090. Ruth was an avid reader and their help in keeping her in reading material was invaluable. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 269-637-0333 

Danny Lee Keen Sr.

Danny Lee Keen Sr., 54, of South Haven, passed away Friday, Dec. 21, 2018 at Riverview Nursing Home in Detroit. He was born Nov. 6, 1964 to Cecil and Mary Lou (Bingham) Keen in Selma, Tenn. Danny was an outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing and hunting. He also enjoyed collecting pewter figures including dragons, wizards and Bald Eagles.
He is preceded in death by his father – Cecil Ray Keen, Sr., brother – Cecil Keen, Jr., grandson – Ryan Cowgill and grandmother – Carrie Bingham.
Danny is survived along with his mother Mary Keen by children – Heidi (Anthony) Purcell of Paw Paw, Danny Keen Jr. of South Haven and Carry Keen of Covert; brothers – Gene (Melissa) Keen and Joseph Keen, both of South Haven, Tommy Garcia of Kalamazoo and David Napier of South Haven; six grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

Visitation was from 10-11 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 27, 2018 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services followed visitation at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Danny was laid to rest in Stephenson Cemetery in Casco Township. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.



Judy C. Villwock

Judy C. Villwock, 72, of South Haven, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2018 at Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation in South Haven.  Judy was born on Oct. 6, 1946 in Lacota, the daughter of Eugene and Rose (Rogalla) Cisco, and lived in South Haven all of her life.

She enjoyed sewing, knitting, crocheting, making crafts, spending time in her vegetable and flower gardens, cooking and baking; but she most enjoyed taking care of her family.

Surviving are her husband, Charles Villwock, whom she married May 21, 1971; a daughter, Victoria (Jeff) Villwock of South Haven; a son, Ed (Jennifer) Villwock of Grayling; her brothers and sisters, Eugene Cisco, Rose (Kenneth) Morrison, Ruth (Dale) Estes, Henry Cisco, and Eddie (Linda) Cisco. She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Raymond Cisco.

The family will meet friends from 10-11 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2019 at the Bangor Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com. Services will follow at 11 a.m. with Pastor Don Graham officiating.  Burial will follow in McDowell Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the family to help with expenses or Al-Van Humane Society of South Haven.

 





Week of Dec. 23

Mary Louise Bergman

Mary Louise Bergman, 77, of Bangor, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2018 at Bronson South Haven Hospital.  Mary was born March 23, 1941 in Bangor to Harry I. Avery, Sr. and Hortense (Irwin) Avery and was a lifelong Bangor resident.

She attended Lake Michigan Junior College and later ran an accounting business, Bergman Accounting, with her husband, Clayton. Mary was active in the Bangor Alumni Association and was a lifelong member of Simpson United Methodist Church and the Bangor Historical Society.

She is survived by a brother, Richard Dale Avery of Granite Falls, NC; nieces, Karen Avery Dorr of Clermont, Fla., Laura Ann Avery Drapsho of Winter Garden, Fla.; nephews, Eric S. Avery of Winter Garden, Fla., and Daniel R. Avery of Miami, Fla.

She follows in heaven above her husband, Clayton; mother and father, Harry, Sr. and Hortense and a brother, Harry, Jr., whom she lost last year.

Mary loved to knit and had donated many baby outfits for friends, family and her church. Mary was an avid reader and loved her hockey games.

According to her wishes cremation has taken place and a dedication memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to the Bangor Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

Fred Michael Echelbarger

Fred Michael Echelbarger, 95, of South Haven, passed away Sunday, Dec. 16, 2018 at Bronson Hospital in South Haven. He was born March 18, 1923 to Charles and Flora (Waters) Echelbarger in Shelby.

He honorably served his country in the United States Army Air Corps during World War II. He later worked for Kroger Grocery for 16 years and Buy Low for an additional 16 years before his retirement in 1982.

He married Erma Bucher on Dec. 31, 1946. They shared 50 years in marriage before her passing in 1996. He later remarried Barbara Goodrich in 2002. He was a member of the American Legion and First United Methodist Church in South Haven. Fred was a great story teller and enjoyed sharing about his younger years in the Upper Peninsula. He loved music and liked to sing, dance and take trips. He also enjoyed spending time outside and hunting. He will be greatly missed.

He is preceded in death along with his parents and first wife by two sons – Philip and Michael Echelbarger and brother – Theron Echelbarger.
Fred is survived by his wife – Barbara Echelbarger of South Haven; daughter – Suzanne (Phillip) Brown of Comstock Park; step-daughters – Christina Rhoades of South Haven,and Alison (Criag) VanOordt of Grand Haven; grandchildren – Nichole (Roger) Leech, Abby (Ryan) Green and Travis Brown; eight great-grandchildren, five step-grandchildren, three step great-grandchildren, and good friend – Eula Foster.
Visitation was from 10-11 a.m., Friday, Dec. 21, 2018 at First United Methodist Church in South Haven. Funeral services followed the visitation at 11 a.m. with Pastor Ron VanLente officiating at the church. Fred will be laid to rest next to his first wife, Erma, at Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.



Peter R. Homan

Peter R. Homan, 76, of South Haven, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 18, 1941 at his home. Peter was born Dec. 20, 1941 in Milwaukee, Wis., the son of Harry and Marjorie (Coolsen) Homan, and lived in the South Haven area for 12 years.

He served with the U.S. Army in Germany. He was a systems programmer for Hewlett Packard, and for many years as a subcontractor.  He was a world traveler, traveling to Europe, Afghanistan, India, Nepal and many other places. In his later years he was an organic gardener and was known for his homemade jams and sauces.

He is survived by his 3 siblings, Dan (Gail) Homan of Glendale, Calif., Mike (Paula) Homan of Edwardsville, Ill. and Carol Homan of Holland; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Jeannine Homan Graham.

According to his wishes cremation has taken place and no services are scheduled at this time. He will have his cremains scattered in the Ganges River near Rishikesh, India. Arrangements entrusted to the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com

Robert J. “Big Luke” Luchies

Robert J. “Big Luke” Luchies, 86, of South Haven, passed away Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018 at his home under hospice care with his family at his side. He was born June 12, 1932 to Elmer and Ann (Schuiteman) Luchies in Fremont.

Robert married Winifred DeGroot on Sept. 14, 1956 at the Christian Reformed Church. They shared 54 years in marriage before her passing in 2010. Robert attended Alma College before being drafted into the Army for the Korean War.

After returning from a time in Florida, Robert began work at Kalamazoo Tool and Die. He later went on to Wells Manufacturing in Three Rivers before becoming a head hunter at MSS in Kalamazoo. He last worked for Lindemulder Construction as a finish carpenter before his eventual retirement. Robert enjoyed fishing, wood working, croquet, and golf. Most of all, he loved and cherished spending time with his family.
He is preceded in death along with his parents and wife by two sons – Rodney and Russell Luchies and siblings – Eleanor VanAntwerpen and Randy “Luke” Luchies.

Robert is survived by his daughter – Rose (Jim) Lindemulder of South Haven; daughters-in-law – Sandra Luchies of Kalamazoo and Betty Luchies of Three Rivers; brother – Jerry Luchies of Hartford; 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Many in laws, cousins, nieces and nephews also survive.
Visitation was from 10-11 a.m., Saturday, Dec.15, 2018 at First Assembly of God in South Haven. Funeral services followed visitation at 11 a.m. at the church with Pastor Eric Jarvis and Rev. David Deters officiating. Contributions may be made in Robert’s memory to the First Assembly of God’s Personal Care Pantry or to Christmas Hope. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.





Lois Elaine Maxwell

Lois Elaine Maxwell, 78, of Bangor, passed away Monday, Dec. 17, 2018 at Rose Arbor Hospice Center in Kalamazoo. She was born Dec. 7, 1940 to Leo and Elaine (Hawks) Kohlhoff in St. Joseph.

Lois married Frank “Larry” Maxwell in South Haven. They shared 18 years in marriage before his passing in 2011.

Lois worked as a secretary at Add Construction, Clark-Ross Insurance, and South Haven Insurance Agency before her eventual retirement. She loved gardening and tending her plants. She loved being in nature and spent much of her time outdoors. She also enjoyed sewing.

She was a member of the Pen Dragons Calligraphy Guild and created many beautiful cards for her children and grandchildren.

She is preceded in death along with her parents and husband by a daughter – Cindy Maxwell, and sister– Donna Jarvis.
Lois is survived by her children – Eunice Durand of Holland, Terry Durand of South Haven, and Tim (Brenda) Durand of Pullman, Bob Maxwell of Kalamazoo, Ken (Kathy) Maxwell of South Haven, Kurt (Stacy) Maxwell of South Haven and Lynnsy (Betsy) Maxwell of Lawton; sisters - Joyce (John) Watts of Allegan and Jean Renzelman of Wallsenberg, Colo.; and brother – Robert Kohlhoff of Kentucky. Ten grandchildren also survive.
Private family services will be held. Lois will be laid to rest at Monk Cemetery in Geneva Township. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.



Walter Wayne Strong

Walter Wayne Strong, 67, of South Haven, passed away Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018 at Bronson Hospital in South Haven. He was born June 17, 1951 to Velma and Willie James Strong in Gary, Ind.

Walter graduated from South Haven High School with the class of 1970. Walter enjoyed singing and was known for his good voice. He was also a talented cook known for his famous potato salad. He was a champion on the Bohn Aluminum bowling league. He was a former member of Emmanuel Community Church.
He is preceded in death by his parents; wife – Joan; and son – Ryan Strong; brothers – Richard, Lowell, Charles, Emmett, and Melvin Lasenby; Ronald Strong and sisters – Marlene Williams and Charlene Lasenby; and special nieces – Donna Cunningham, Desiree Wilson, and O’Linda Lasenby.
Walter is survived by his daughters – Lisa (Barry) Strong of Chicago and Jetaun Strong of Dallas Texas; grandson Ryan; sisters – Sandra Pye of South Haven, Evelyn (Johnnie) Green of Gary, Ind., and Olivia Lasenby of Detroit. nnd a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Services are not scheduled at this time. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333.

Jeanette Wilderine Roderick

Jeanette Wilderine Roderick, 85, of South Haven passed away Dec. 18, 2018.

Jeanette lived her life to the fullest, following the example of her favorite Bible verse, “Today is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24).

Jeanette was a life-long resident of South Haven, and she dearly loved her home town. She was born here March 30, 1933 to Herbert and Sadie Geraldine Buelow, who preceded her in death.

Jeanette attended school in South Haven and developed close friendships that lasted her life time.

Jeanette was married at age 20 to Jack M. Seiler. They had four children who were all raised in their home on Ravinia Drive. Jeanette loved to entertain, and held countless pool parties in the summers (when she and her children were not at the beach). She taught her children to appreciate the beauty in the world. They recall many a summer eve, stopping by Sherman’s for ice cream cones, then driving to the beach to view the beautiful sunsets.

Jeanette attended Peace Lutheran Church (formerly First English Evangelical Lutheran Church) for her whole life, serving at special events, and on a variety of committees. Jeanette loved her church and church members. She was a third-grade Sunday School teacher for many years. She felt it was a privilege to teach the word of God to children. Jeanette has always been fond of young ones, and especially enjoyed her great-grandson, Brady, in her later years.

Jeanette married Art Roderick in August of 1993. They traveled extensively together, enjoying numerous trips in various parts of the world. Art was a tour guide and enjoyed planning many of the trips. But Jeanette was always happy to return to her beloved home and family in South Haven. She felt fortunate that most of her family lived nearby, and wonderful memories of numerous holiday and birthday gatherings provide comfort for all of her family. Jeanette was a stay-at-home mom for many years, enjoying being a room mother every year in her children’s classrooms.

As her children grew, she delved into a new career in the world of real estate. She first became an agent, and loved meeting new people and matching the right person to the right home. Jeanette was a top agent in South Haven for a number of years. She later became a broker and owner of her own real estate company in South Haven, retiring in 2002.
She is preceded in death along with her parents by a brother-in-law, Douglas Wattrick.

Jeanette is survived by her loving husband, Arthur “Art” Roderick; her four children, Laurie (Chuck) Palanca of Kalamazoo, Linda (Carl Baker) Davies of South Haven, Richard (Beth) Seiler of Holland, and Ronald (Joy Lynn) Seiler of South Haven; her sister, Lorraine Wattrick of South Haven; eight grandchildren, Claire, Ariel, Jacob, Hannah, Sarah, Joey, Sadie and Luke; a ninth grandchild, Devin, who resides in Heaven; and 4 great-grandchildren, Reece, Knox, Flynn and Brady. She is also survived by numerous beloved cousins, nieces and nephews.
Visitation were from 10-11 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 22, 2018 at Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Haven. Memorial services followed visitation at 11 a.m. at the church with Pastor Travis Wilson officiating.  Jeanette's children invited people to a luncheon in the church Fellowship Hall after the service. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

William Wright

William Wright, 79, of South Haven, passed away Monday, Dec.17, 2018 at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo. He was born March 1, 1939 to Edward and Lola (Smith) Wright in Chicago, Ill.

William honorably served his country in the United States Armed Forces during peace time. He married Kelley J. Wright May 18, 1985 in South Haven. They shared ten years of marriage before her passing in 1995. He retired in 2001 from South Haven Health Care where he worked as a cook for 12 years. He was a member of the Kingdom Hall in South Haven.
He is preceded in death along with his parents and wife by a brother – Edward F. Wright, Jr.
William is survived by his children – Anthony Wright Taylor, Ron Howe and Bobbi Sue Howe, and two grandchildren.
Memorial services were at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 22, 2018 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in South Haven, 07225 Blue Star Hwy., South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.







Week of Dec. 16

Sarah Marie Bray

Sarah Marie Bray, 69, of Pullman, formerly of South Haven, passed away Thursday, Dec. 6, 2018 in Charlevoix, Michigan. She was born April 22, 1949 to Paul and Isabelle (Wabinimkee) Kenwabikise on Beaver Island where she was raised.

She lived in the South Haven area for many years where she drove bus for the South Haven, Fennville, and Bloomingdale school districts. She enjoyed camping, star gazing, and hunting.
She is preceded in death along with her parents by siblings – Leonard, John, Robbie, Stevie, and Doris Kenwabikise and Margaret Way.
Sarah is survived by her children – Edwin and Chris (Debra) Harris both of Pullman and Melissa (Ryan) Woodley of Grand Junction; grandchildren – Shelby and Hannah Harris and Reece and Mirra Woodley; and siblings - Caroline (Buck) Ramey, Nancy (Denney) Harris, Pauline (George) Anthony, Diane (Sonic) Smith, Mary Kenwabikise-Halpen, Joey Kenwabikise, and Jimmie (Barb) Kenwabikise.

Visitation was from 1-2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 15, 2018 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Memorial services followed visitation at 2 p.m. at the funeral home. A luncheon followed services at the American Legion Post #49, 129 Michigan Avenue, South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Edward “Ed” Gus Heinze

Edward “Ed” Gus Heinze, 71, of South Haven, passed away Friday, Dec. 7, 2018 at his home. He was born Oct. 17, 1947 to Edward and Ruth E. (Till) Heinze in South Haven.

Ed was a 1966 graduate of South Haven High School.  Ed married Dorothy Brinks on Sept. 20, 1969 at First English Lutheran Church in South Haven. He owned along with his father and grandfather, Heinze Farms where he enjoyed working his entire life.

Ed was a member of Peace Lutheran Church in South Haven. He enjoyed ice fishing, hunting, bowling, snowmobiling and Nascar races. His favorite places were Sault Sainte Marie, where he liked watching the locks, and trips to Disney with his family. Most of all he loved spending time with his grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents and two sons, Michael and Joseph Heinze.

Ed is survived by his wife - Dorothy Heinze; daughter – Shawn Heinze of South Haven; sons – Vincent (Tracy) Heinze of South Haven and Jason Heinze of Grand Rapids; grandsons – Logan, Reed and Caleb Heinze; and sister – Rita (David) Butler of South Haven.

Visitation was from 6-8 p.m., Monday, Dec. 10, 2018 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Memorial services were at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Dec. 11, at Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Haven with Pastor Travis Wilson officiating. Ed was laid to rest at Monks Cemetery in Geneva Township. In lieu of flowers friends wishing to make a memorial contribution could do so to Peace Lutheran Church or Great Lakes Caring Hospice. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333.

Constance Jewell

Connie Jewell our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister was received into the arms of the Lord Dec. 2, 2018 at age 75 surrounded by her loving family. Born June 10, 1943 in Omaha Neb., Connie met the love of her life Bill Jewell while working at Mr. C’s Steakhouse and attending North High School. Connie and Bill were married in 1961 and were an inseparable couple for 49 years until Bill’s passing in 2010.

Surviving are their two sons and their wives: Bill Jewell (Carolyn Jewell) of Jackson and Lonnie Jewell (Lori Jewell) from Kalamazoo. Connie was a proud grandmother of four grandchildren: Bill Jewell (Janelle Jewell), Ashley Jewell (Andrew Blalock), Aaryn Jewell, and Shanyn Jewell; great grandmother to baby Billy, and beloved sister to Jean Andrew of Phoenix Ariz.; aunt to Laura Andrew of Phoenix, Robert Andrew (Malinda Andrew) of Houston Texas as well as many other loving family and friends.

Connie is preceded in death by her husband Bill Jewell of South Haven; father Melvin Thurber of Omaha; mother Gloria Thurber of Omaha and brother Ronald Thurber of Omaha.

In Omaha is where Connie and Bill raised their two children. Connie was actively involved in Cub-Scouts, L’l Vikes football, Pioneer Days, and the Ponca Hills Archery Club. Connie worked at several restaurants in North Omaha through the years. She created a wonderful home environment with a revolving open door of children coming and going day and night with never a dull moment. She not only was a mother to her own children, but to many neighborhood children as well.

Connie and Bill relocated from Omaha, Neb. to Somerset Michigan in 1982 setting their sights high on new adventures and greater opportunity for their family. While Bill worked at Gilbert Commonwealth in Jackson, Mom went back to school to become a nurse assistant. Mom and dad loved Lake Somerset and being on the lake. So, in 1989 the two relocated to the shores of South Haven on Lake Michigan. Members of South Haven Yacht club for many years, they were avid boaters and enjoyed lake life. Mom was employed by State Farm, Mcdonald Drug, and Ichabod’s. Mom had the greenest of green thumbs which resulted in a beautiful flowering garden at her home in South Haven. She was an awesome cook who collected hundreds of cook books and an avid craft maker. Her and dad would frequently have guests over so dad could, unknowing to mom, show off mom’s cooking to neighbor friends. She always made a home a home and made guests feel special. But mom’s greatest accomplishment was the children she raised to be honorable adults, the grandchildren that she spoiled, and the wonderful memories that are forever engrained in our memory. You will truly be missed by all. According to her wish’s cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be at a later date. Arrangements by Watson Funeral Chapel, Jackson.

Barbara Jean (Dostie) Thorne

Barbara Jean (Dostie) Thorne, 88 of Gobles and formerly of Grand Junction, passed away peacefully in her sleep Dec. 5, 2018.  Barbara was born Aug. 26, 1930, in Richland. She attended Cheshire Township School in Allegan County and Bloomingdale High School.

Barbara married Russell Earl Thorne on Sept. 18, 1948, and remained married until Russell’s death 65 years later.  They lived most of their lives together on the centennial family farm near Grand Junction.  They also had a winter home in Lakeland, Fla.

For 41 years they produced and sold maple syrup and maple candy together on their farm as Thorne’s Maple Syrup.

Barbara was a lifelong member of the Order of the Eastern Stars, holding most offices at one time or another. Barbara and Russell traveled all over the United States, including Hawaii and Alaska, plus the countries of Canada, Mexico, England, Scotland, France, Israel and Egypt.

Barbara is survived by her children, Cheryl Ladd (Bill Potter), Frances (Ken) Zecklin, Edwin (Nanci) Thorne, Grace (Rod) Smith, and Ruth (Rick) Cripps; 14 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; 13 great-great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; her sister, Dorothy Miller of Plainwell; brother, Carl (Peggy) Dostie of Newaygo; and her brother-in-law, Maurice Thorne of Cary, NC.

She was preceded in death by her sister and brother-in-law, Louise and Daniel Lindsley; brothers, Jimmy and Robert Dostie; sister-in-law, Phyllis Thorne; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Maryella and Paul William; brother-in-law, Merton Miller; foster brother-in-law and foster sister-in-law, Rolland and Mallie Griffin; and foster sister-in-law and foster brother-in-law, Genevieve and John Keller.

Services were held Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2018 at the Bloomingdale Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com. Interment followed at Grand Junction Cemetery.

Jerry (Jerome Joseph) Wroblewski

Jerry (Jerome Joseph) Wroblewski of Chicago, Ill., passed away at the age of 85, at his home in South Haven, on the evening of Nov. 5, 2018. He died of a broken heart, just over two months after the death of his dearly departed wife of over 60 years, Betty (Elizabeth Marie) Wroblewski.

Jerry and Betty grew up in the same Polish community on Chicago’s South Side and started dating in their early 20s.  Jerry was an Army Veteran of the Cold War who attended night school at the Illinois Institute of Technology for 10 years while supporting a young family in order to earn a bachelor of science degree in Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering that led to a career in the heavy-duty machine tool industry for many years, largely in the Midwest.  
Jerry and Betty retired to their home in Glenn Shores over 20 years ago, and were grateful for the beauty and fun of the Lake, and the wonderful sense of community they enjoyed there among dear friends and neighbors.  
Jerry is survived by three children, Celeste Wroblewski (Les Orenstein), Gregory Wroblewski and Roberta Wroblewski Brenza; and three grandsons, Celeste’s son, Eli Orenstein, and Roberta’s sons, Xavier and Gabriel Brenza.

Jerry was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who always provided for his family with great warmth and care and a very dry sense of humor. Jerry was a compassionate individual who felt strongly about the rights of the disadvantaged and very much enjoyed following politics and reading, especially about the Civil War.
Sports were also a focus of Jerry’s as an avid golfer who played in the Glenn Shores Bohn Golf League for many years and enjoyed score-keeping much of that time. Watching baseball and attending games with his family was always a pleasure for Jerry. Deeply sentimental, Jerry was profoundly proud of his children and three grandsons and was overcome with grief over the loss of his dear Betty.  
Jerry will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
Visitation will be held from 10-11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 22, 2018 at St. Peter Catholic Church in Douglas. Funeral mass will follow visitation at 11 a.m. with Father Fabio Garzon officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Jerry's memory to the Haiti Medical Education Project at HMEProject.org. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.









Week of Dec. 9

Richard C. Buck

Richard C. Buck, 71, of Grand Junction, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2018 at his home.  Richard, who was referred to as “Buck,” was born April 2, 1947, the son of the late Richard and Irene Buck and had lived in Grand Junction since 1969.

Richard honorably served his country as a member of the U.S. Army where he served in Vietnam as a combat engineer.  He loved to fish, hunt, golf and work in his garden.  Richard began his career of public service working as an EMT in South Haven and then went on to become a registered nurse where he worked for 31 years in the South Haven Community Hospital emergency room.  After retirement he served 5 years as a traveling nurse. 

Surviving is his wife of nearly 50 years Margie Jean; 3 children, Carrie McKeever, Rita Buck and Richard Buck; 4 grandchildren, Briauna, Chelsea, Brenden and Brittny; 2 great-grandchildren, Keenai and Meadow; siblings, Kathe (Allen) MacCune, Cindy Newberry and Jim (Adrienne) Hutton; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and 3 sisters, Dorothy, Ruth and Mary.

 The family will meet friends today (Sunday, Dec. 9, 2019) from noon until time of sharing service at 2 p.m., at the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to either Caring Circle Hospice or the family to assist with expenses. 

Melba (Lolita) Nelson

Melba (Lolita) Nelson was born Sept. 4, 1946 and went home to be with her Lord, Dec. 2, 2018, surrounded by her family at home in Plainwell. Melba met her shipmate for life (Clovis) while he was stationed in her homeland of the Philippines in 1971. They married in 1972 and celebrated 46 years of marriage including a very dear to her heart surprise vow renewal for their 44th anniversary.

Melba was preceded in death by her beloved mother, father and brother, all of the Philippines; and her much cherished father in law.

Melba is survived by her husband Clovis; mother in law Juanita; children, Natalie (Will) Bradley and Jennifer (Keith) Kasper; and four grandchildren, Dominic Annerino, Kai Bradley, Zander and Vivian Kasper, who all were the lights of her life. She also leaves behind a large extended family here in the States as well as 3 sisters and family members in the Philippines who will carry her in their hearts forever.

In younger years Melba could always be found hard at work on the family blueberry farm, volunteering at her children’s school or in her beloved community of Bangor or donating to a multitude of charities. Her values centered around her faith and instilling those values in her children. She was the epitome of kindness and giving to all who knew her.

As her life transitioned into retirement she enjoyed playing golf in Florida or riding behind Clovis on his motorcycle. The most recent joys of her life revolved around her grandchildren: babysitting daily, cheering on their many sports achievements, watching dance recitals, preparing them special Filipino foods to try and the most important to her, just spending time watching them grow and pursuing their dreams.

Melba loved to laugh and the family invites you to share your funniest or most memorable to you story involving Melba in the online guestbook as a cherished memory for her family.

Christmas was Melba’s favorite time of the year, celebrating her faith and gathering family around her. In lieu of flowers Melba would love that you either donate to Hope Lutheran church or choose this time to gather your loved ones close and celebrate each other in her honor.

Melba has chosen cremation: Visitation and funeral service was held at Hope Lutheran Church (290 12th Street Plainwell, MI 49080) on Saturday Dec. 8, 2018. Visitation was from 1-2 pm, service at 2 p.m. immediately followed by refreshments and fellowship.

Eugene Keith Pensinger

Eugene Keith Pensinger, 91, of South Haven, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2018 at Bronson Hospital in South Haven. He was born July 15, 1927 to Loren and Mary (Jensen) Pensinger in South Haven.

Eugene honorably served his country in the United States Army during World War II. Eugene enjoyed nature walks, family dinners and fond memories of Jericho and Central schools. He enjoyed growing zucchini and strawberries on the same family farm he was born on and resided on during his long and happy life.

He is preceded in death along with his parents by siblings Harry and Bob Pensinger, Grace Drexler, Virginia Gilbreath and Irene Bennett.

Eugene is survived by his brothers, Loren, Sr., George, LaVerne, and Glenn Pensinger as well as many nieces and nephews.

Visitation was from 10-11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services followed visitation at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Eugene was laid to rest at Chambers Cemetery in Geneva Township. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations in Eugene’s name be made to the Al-Van Humane Society of South Haven. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333.





Week of Dec. 2

Ruth Marion Hedlund

Ruth Marion Hedlund, of South Haven, passed away Monday, Nov. 19, 2018 at the Boulder Creek Assisted Living Center in Rockford, surrounded by her loving family. She was born Sept. 29, 1932 to Edgar and Winnifred (Gooding) Miller in Swartz Creek.

Ruth married Eddie Hedlund on Jan. 19, 1951 in Hartford. She said it was love at first sight when she saw him working on an apartment building. They shared 59 years of marriage before his passing in 2010.

After Eddie’s death, Ruth suffered a broken heart but stayed strong because her children still needed her. She lived independently until just one week before her passing. Ruth helped run the family business, located in their home, in the days before computers or cell phones. She enjoyed reading, baking, motorcycling and driving small aircraft around in the family’s backyard.

She was always the room mother, never forgot a birthday, drove her middle daughter to kindergarten in one of the first Mustang convertibles, allowed various pets to be brought home (there is a rumor that a pony came home in the backseat of a Cadillac), made all the meals and changed all the diapers.

She endured countless cross-country motor home road trips with screaming kids, numerous college moves, paid thousands of dollars of tuition and beat cancer twice. She went back to high school to receive a diploma after having all of her children to set a good example about the importance of education. She was truly a strong woman and will be dearly missed.
She is preceded in death along with her parents and husband by siblings – Edgar, William, Glynn, Leland, Henry, and Thomas Miller, and Dorothy Flores and also hundreds of nieces and nephews.
Ruth is survived by her children – Valerie Ridley of Bangor, Gary Ridley of Bangor (OK, he is married to Valerie but more like a son than a son-in-law. He was at all family gatherings and separated all fights), Vicki (Fred) Reeves of New Port Richey, Fla., Carolyn of California, Arthur (Andrea) Hedlund of Rockford and Nancy (Pat) Connor of Grand Rapids; brother – Raymond (Rita) Miller of Kalamazoo (Uncle Ray and Aunt Rita are adopting all 6 of Ruth’s children); six grandchildren and three great-grandsons.
Private Family Services will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Kindred Hospice of Grand Rapids to whom the family is grateful.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Genaro Alcaraz Mejia

Genaro Alcaraz Mejia, 50, of Bangor, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2018 at the Bronson Hospital in South Haven. He was born Dec. 1, 1967 in Michoacán, Mexico to Nicolas and Oliva Alcaraz. Genaro married Raquel Barajas. They shared 8 years of life together.
He is preceded in death along with his parents by a sister – Maria.
Genaro is survived by his wife – Raquel of Bangor; children – Citlali “Cicy,” Roxana, and Marcos Alcaraz; siblings - Pilar, Guadalupe, Margarito, Wilfredo, Leopoldo, Trinidad, Magdalena, Jose D. Jesus, Cleotilde, Elfega, Maria Del Pilar and Nicolas Alcaraz, Jr.

Visitation will be held from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 7, 2018 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral mass will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2018 at St. Basil Catholic Church with Father Fabio Garzon officiating. Genaro will be laid to rest at Monk Cemetery in Geneva Township.

Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Donna J. Gumpert-Revilla


Donna J. Gumpert-Revilla, 95, of South Haven, went home to be with the Lord on Nov. 26, 2018. She was born Nov. 28, 1922 in Ann Arbor, the daughter of Lawrence and Esther (Newton) Harris.

Donna grew up on various farms in Van Buren County. Her family was a very close-knit family, and she was especially close with her sisters. Donna is remembered for her patience and love taking care of her sisters and brothers.

Donna graduated from South Haven High School in 1939. She married Edward G. Gumpert on June 24, 1949 and later settled down on a farm in Lacota. There they started a family and had four very active boys. Donna held various jobs while raising her family; she was a hairdresser, worked at Fischel's Style Shop and Gown Shop as a retail clerk, and as a South Haven Schools bus driver. Donna also helped her husband raise chickens and handled the egg route.

Her sons loved their mother and said she was the best mother in the world. Donna was known for her baking skills and cooking. She made wonderful rolls, bread, pies and cakes. Everyone loved her cinnamon rolls and couldn't wait for them to come out of the oven. She loved to garden and read. She had many beautiful flowers that she would share with others and how to grow them.

Donna remarried in November 1978 to Thomas Revilla and spent 8 happy years in Johnson City, Tenn. Donna was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Johnson City, Tenn. and then became a member at Peace Lutheran Church in South Haven and participated in the ladies Priscilla Circle.

Donna loved the family get togethers and especially the Harris-Newton reunion every summer. She would start baking goodies early for the reunion and everyone loved her pies and rolls.

Donna is preceded in death by her first husband, Edward G. Gumpert; second husband, Thomas Revilla; brothers, Larry Harris, Robert Harris, Leighton "Dutch" Harris, Eugene Harris, Everett Harris; and sister, Charlotte Harris.

Surviving are her 4 sons, Edward (Lisa) Gumpert of Aztec, NM, David (Debbie) Gumpert of South Haven, Mark (April) Gumpert of Grand Junction and Bret Gumpert of Grand Junction; 17 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; sisters, Martha Carpenter, Betty Hinz, Mary (Ron) Holden-Hart and Judy (David) Thar; and a brother, Alan (Lois) Harris.

The service was held Friday, Nov. 30, 2018 at the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home with Pastor Mark Congrove officiating. Interment followed in Chambers Cemetery, Geneva Township. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com

Joyce Ann Wauchek

Joyce Ann Wauchek, age 60, of Grand Junction, passed away Nov. 22, 2018 at Bronson Hospital with her family by her side. She was born on Dec. 25t 1957 in South Haven, the daughter of Wesley and Sylvia (MacCune) Gibson.

She graduated from Bloomingdale High School in 1975, she went on to Davenport College, getting her associate degree in accounting. She lived in the Grand Junction area for most of her life and was a store clerk working at Mr. Grocery most of her life. Joyce enjoyed her free time by spending time with family and friends and cooking for them whenever she was able to.

Surviving is her husband, Richard; two sons, Brian Gibson of Charleston, SC and Joshua Gibson of Grand Junction; a sister Bonnie (John) Neiman of Lacota; brothers Glenn (Jill) Gibson of Grand Junction, and Paul (Julie) Gibson of Grand Junction; brother-in law and sister-in-law John (Diane) Wauchek of South Haven and Paul Wauchek of Grand Junction; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by brothers Moe Gibson and Steve Gibson.

She will be missed by her family and friends very much. According to her wish’s cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to D.L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com



Gary David Wishon

Gary David Wishon, 66, of South Haven, passed away Monday, Nov. 26, 2018 at Bronson Hospital in South Haven. He was born Feb. 20, 1952 to Guy and Elsie (Felder) Wishon in War Eagle, Ark.

Gary married Barbara Caldwell on Dec. 24, 1979 in South Haven. They shared 33 years in marriage before her passing in 2012. Gary retired from the City of South Haven Street Department after many years of service.

He loved all types of music, collected model cars and marbles, and enjoyed watching movies. Gary loved his family dearly.
He is preceded in death along with his wife and parents by siblings – Richard McClellan, Harold “Doc” Wishon, Ronald Wishon, Joyce Summers, Floyd Wishon, Sharron Mcintosh, Howard Wishon, Lillian Ellrod, and four still-born siblings.
Gary is survived by his children – Shelly (Edmund Morgan) McCauley of South Haven and Robin Bell of Fort Pierce, Fla.; grandchildren – Mitchell Donahue, Michelle Bennett, Jessica and Jamie Taylor, siblings – Jill Crockett of Oklahoma City, Okla., Elsa Hemphill of Bangor, and Leon (Carlene) Wishon of South Haven. Eight great-grandchildren also survive.
Memorial services were held at noon on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018 at Bangor Baptist Church in Bangor with Pastor Tony Moore officiating. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.



Week of Nov. 25

Lorna Jean Duncan

Lorna Jean Duncan, 91, of South Haven passed away Thursday, Nov. 15, 2018 at Bronson South Haven Hospital. She was born July 12, 1927 to Arthur W. and Meta (Lawrence) Olson in South Haven. Lorna married Brenice Duncan on Nov. 14, 1945. They shared 58 years of marriage. Lorna also enjoyed watching TV westerns and wrestling.

She is preceded in death along with her parents by her husband – Brenice Duncan (2003), son – Roger A. Duncan (1995) and her half-brother, Lawrence O’Neil.

Lorna is survived by her children – William (Roberta) Duncan of Covert, Donna Duncan of North Carolina, Mary (Matt) Tomsic of South Haven, Karen (Butch) Duncan of South Haven, Nancy (Lawrence) Bigda of Grand Junction, Darlene (Gary) Masterson of Covert, Brenice (Rita) Duncan of Holland, Mark (Tammie) Duncan of South Haven and John (Dana) Duncan of California; 24 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren.

Visitation was from 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 20, 2018 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home. Funeral services were at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 21 at the funeral home. She was laid to rest at North Shore Memory Gardens, Coloma. Thoughts and memories can be shared on Lorna’s online guestbook at FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 269-637-0333.

Vivian LaVon Shelton

Vivian LaVon Shelton was born on June 22, 1935 to Thomas Jerry Sanders and Bessie Mae Stewart in Madison, Ark. Vivian was the middle child of three. The oldest, Deloris Delrio Sanders and the youngest, Thomas Cornelius Sanders. She lived in Madison until age 18.

On July 18, 1952, Vivian married Herman Eugene Shelton, also from Madison, Ark. They began their life and family together in Chicago, Ill. In 1960, Herman and Vivian relocated to South Haven, where they established the Shelton Farm.

Together, Vivian and Herman raised a family of eight children: Herman Eugene Jr., Johann Sebastian, Charles Byron, Harold Czyswon, LaWanna Charisse, Jay Donathan, Sheila(h) LaVon and Eric Christopher. In July 2017, Herman and Vivian celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. Vivian was a homemaker, farmer, and factory worker at the Michigan Fruit Canners and Bohn Aluminum.
Vivian is preceded in death by her brother, Thomas C. Sanders, and two sons, Charles B. and Jay D. Vivian leaves to morn her passing her devoted husband of 66 years, Herman Sr., sons, Herman Jr. (Pam), Johann (Earline), Harold, and Eric and daughters, LaWanna and Sheilah.    

Wake was from noon-1 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 24, 2018 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services followed wake at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Vivian was laid to rest at Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a plant be donated for the creation of a small memorial garden on the Shelton Farm in memory of Vivian. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.



Ronald Stansberry

Ronald Stansberry, 75, of Evanston, Ill., passed away on Nov. 10, 2018.

A Memorial Service will be held 1 p.m. Saturday Dec. 8, 2018 at Greater Faith Community Church - 3219 Co. Road 687 South Haven, Bernice Thomas – pastor.

Ron was born in Chicago, Ill. to (George Stansberry Sr. and Lois Carnell (Jewell) on March 5, 1943. In 1944 his family moved to South Haven where he graduated from South Haven High School in 1963. Ron served in the Air Force at Vandenberg AFB California for 4 years and was top of his class in basic Training (Amarillo, Texas). He worked as an Administrative Specialist in the Strategic Air Command (SAC) and felt very privileged to be part of the Armed Forces.

After the Air Force he married his childhood sweetheart Juanita Flournoy in 1966 and celebrated 52 years of marriage this past October.

Later Ronald worked for J.D. Marshall International, Export Directors, as a sales coordinator and enjoyed traveling overseas for the company, as he did with his next job with ATM America.

Ronald is preceded in death by his father George Stansberry Sr., his brother George Stansberry Jr. and his sister Sandra Harris.

Ronald is survived by his mother Lois Jewell, his wife Juanita Stansberry, his son, Roman Stansberry (Favi) and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. As a proud veteran, he will be buried in the Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Ill.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Greater Faith Community Church.

Veronica Sue (Ely) Yankovich

Veronica Sue (Ely) Yankovich passed away at her home on Wednesday Nov. 14, 2018 after bravely battling cancer. She was preceded in death by her parents Vern and Irene (Hutton) Ely of Casco Township, an older sister Shirley Mae Costello, and a younger sister Verene.

She is survived by her husband Walter Yankovich; her son Vern Michael David “Gorby” Yankovich; her identical twin sister Verna Lee Hutton-Ely; three nephews; five nieces; eight great-nephews, and six great-nieces.

She attended Crow School in Casco Township, kindergarten through eighth grade and graduated from L.C. Mohr High School in South Haven in 1965. She retired from the U.S. Post Office in Grand Junction after 36 years of service.

Visitation was at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018 from 5-7 p.m. Funeral services were at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home Monday, Nov. 19 at 11 a.m. with interment following at Stephenson Cemetery in Casco Township. In lieu of flowers, Sue requested that donations be made to Michigan Special Olympics, Area 17, 29000 64th Avenue Lawton MI 49065. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Week of Nov. 18

James “Jim” Stephen Ellmer

James “Jim” Stephen Ellmer,  60, of Mt. Pleasant, Mich. died Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018 at the McBride Christian Adult Foster Care Home.  Jim was born Aug. 6, 1958 in South Haven to Irene (Samardak) and Stephen Ellmer.  Jim liked all types of cars especially the Chevy El Camino.  He also enjoyed collecting key chains. 

He is survived by his parents – Stephen and Irene Ellmer of South Haven; his sister – Lori Ellmer of Paw Paw; niece – Mckenzie Ellmer of Murfreesboro, Tenn. and a nephew – Jacob Voss of Paw Paw.  Many aunts, uncles and cousins also survive.

Visitation was 10 a.m.-11 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 17 at Casco United Methodist Church.  The funeral service began at 11 a.m. at the church with Pastor Don Graham officiating.  Jim was laid to rest at Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven.  Friends wishing to make a memorial contribution can do so to the Casco United Methodist Church or the Al Van Humane Society. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333.





Glenn William (Bill) Gunterberg

Glenn William (Bill) Gunterberg passed away Nov. 5, 2018 at the age of 96 in Sun City, Ariz.

Bill was born in South Haven in 1922, and was the youngest of 6 children of Fred and Ethel Gunterberg. After high school graduation, Bill attended Michigan State University, but left to enlist in the army. In July of 1944, he entered France and spent the rest of World War II as a sergeant in the 7th Army, 102nd Division, 548th Anti-Aircraft Battalion. Bill was awarded the Bronze Star and other medals for his service. Upon return, he completed his education at Michigan State with a degree in horticulture. While at MSU Bill also met his wife, Anne, and they married in the chapel on campus shortly after graduation.

Bill spent his entire adult working life as an employee of FMC Corp. Transfers came often but Bill and Anne spent many years in their beloved Medina, NY where they raised three children. Bill was very active in the First Presbyterian Church in Medina, serving as Deacon and Elder. Upon retirement, they moved to Arizona where Bill spent much of his time volunteering for the VA and planting trees and clearing brush for the Nature Conservancy. Bill and Anne were also travelers, having visited every state in the country and many overseas destinations as well. Those lucky to know Bill will remember him for his dry wit, prompt habits and practical, thrifty nature.

He was predeceased by his parents, his wife Anne, and his siblings, Gladys, Geraldine, Wilderine, Donald and Ray.

Bill is survived by his children, Barbara (Michael) Cook, Patricia (Neal) Hermann and John; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Christian Cook, Cameron (Jessica) Cook and Ruby Le Cook; Dr. Leanne (Nicholas) Olshavsky, Emma and Lucas; and Kathryn (Chris) Fischer, Caden and Colton; and many nieces and nephews.

Per Bill’s wishes, there will be no services.

Memorials may be sent to Women in Military Service for America, Dept. 560, Washington, DC, 20042-0560; or the First Presbyterian Church, PO Box 213, Medina, NY 14103.

Dewue “Doug” Harrison Sr.

Dewue “Doug” Harrison, age 69, of Breedsville passed peacefully away on Nov. 12, 2018 at home. He was born on July 9, 1949, the son of Joe and Rosie (Durant) Harrison in Battles Wharf, Ala.

Doug worked at Do-it Cooperation in South Haven for the past 21 years. Doug enjoyed spending time singing and playing with grand kids, always tinkering on unfinished projects, spending time in the kitchen cooking homemade recipes including piss cake, white chili and no-bake baked beans but mostly helping out anybody that would ask him.

Doug is survived by his wife, Mary (Harden) Harrison; children, Dewue “Doug” Harrison, Jr., Nic (Charlotte) Harrison, Rob (Shannon) Gibson, Sharon (Michael) Harrell, TJ (Lydia) Huff, Mike (Nikki) Lambrix, Bo (Nikki) Guy and Kimmii Guy; grandkids, Anthony H, Jacob, Karri, Dylan, Codie (Amanda), Mary, Darrian (Justin), Lewis, Seth, Owen, Ryan (Chelsey), Amelia, Colorado, Aden, Tyler, Cosette, Alissa, Caydenn, Anthony M, Brayden, Jack, Sophia, Kynzie, Milo, Jayce and Rowdy; and great grandkids, Navaya, Amariah, Analisia, Zyonn and Dominic.

Doug was preceded in death by brothers Alfred Harrison and Frankie Harrison and his late wife Joanie Harrison. Donations can be made to the family. Visitation was held on Friday, Nov. 16, at the Bangor Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home. Burial followed in Lee Township Cemetery. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com





Donald Roy Hixson

Donald Roy Hixson, 82, of South Haven, passed away Friday, Nov. 9, 2018 at Ascension Borgess – Pipp Hospital in Plainwell. He was born July 11, 1936 to Donald and Sarah (Armstrong) Hixson in Chicago, Ill.

He married Marion Quarrell on June 30, 1956 and shared 62 years in marriage. He honorably served his country in the United States Army from 1958 to 1965 when he was discharged as captain. Donald earned his a master of business administration degree from Michigan State University. Donald worked in sales and marketing for several oil companies and most recently was the president at Fujimi Corp. before his retirement in 2002.

He was a member of SHOUT, the Michigan Maritime Museum, South Haven Center for the Arts, Bailey Museum, and the South Haven Health System and Bronson Hospital foundations. He was a past president of the South Haven Rotary Club and a past commodore of the South Haven Yacht Club. He was a member of Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Haven.

Donald loved antique cars and enjoyed attending car shows and belonged to Mustang and Buick car clubs.

He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother – David W. Hixson.
Donald is survived by his wife – Marion Hixson of South Haven; children – David (Julie) Hixson of Oswego, Ill., Dwight (Laurie) Hixson of Bolingbrook, Ill., Debbie Hixson of Bolingbrook, Ill. and Melissa (Robert) Webb of Bolingbrook, Ill.; eight grandsons – Connor, Ross, Sean, Robert, Payton, Timothy, Kenneth and Vincent; and four great-grandchildren – Roy, Terra, Maggie and Titania.
Visitation was from 2-3 p.m., Friday, Nov. 16, 2018 at Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Haven. Memorial services followed the visitation at 3 p.m. at the church with Pastor Travis Wilson officiating.

Contributions may be made in Donald’s memory to Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church, 06321 Blue Star Highway, South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

James O. Phoenix

James O. Phoenix, 83, of Bangor, passed away Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018 at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo.  James was born Aug. 24, 1935 in Chicago, Ill., and had lived in Bangor for 46 years.  He married Georgianna “Chee Chee”  L. Long on Sept.14, 1974 at Free Methodist Church.

He was a maintenance man at DuWel and Barber Packaging.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Lavina (Thomas) Phoenix, and sister Patricia Phoenix.

He is survived by his wife, Georgianna; 5 children, Jimmy, Debbie, Patricia, Barbara and Susan; 8 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

According to his wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial gathering will be held at a later date.  Arrangements by the Bangor Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com





Week of Nov. 11

Gereta Jane Consolino

Gereta Jane Consolino, age 70 of South Haven, passed peacefully away on Nov. 3, 2018 at home after a brief battle with cancer with her family at her side. She was born on March 2, 1948 the daughter of Grover and Joy Johnson in Heber Springs Ark.

Jane devoted her life to her husband of 40 years, Joseph Consolino, who survives her. Jane graduated from L.C. Mohr High School in South Haven in 1968. She attended Harding College in Searcy, Ark. and earned an associate’s degree in law enforcement at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. She earned a rank of lieutenant with Burns security before her marriage to Joe. Jane and Joe went on to work for Burt Hybels for over 20 years. When not working Jane loved to garden and preserve homegrown goods.  The highlight of her life ( she would tell you) was being a wife and mother.

Jane is survived by her children, Beth Consolino of South Haven, Joey Consolino of South Haven, Nick Consolino of Bangor, Rachel (Rick) DuMouchel of Kalamazoo and Thomas Consolino of Chicago.  Also surviving, sister Virginia (Marvin) Francisco of Leavenworth, Kansas; brothers  Roy (Mary) Johnson of South Haven and Jimmie Johnson of Grand Junction. Many grandchildren, nieces and nephews will mourn her as well.

Jane was preceded in death by a son Vic Consolino and a brother Delbert Johnson. She will be missed by all who knew her and ate at her table. The family asks that in lieu of flowers a donation be made to the local food pantry, as feeding people was one of Jane’s great joys in life. A private graveside service took place on Tuesday Nov. 6, 2018. Arrangements entrusted to D.L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

Jay W. Efting

Jay W. Efting, 82, of Bangor passed away on Nov. 1, 2018 with his family at his side. Jay has joined his heavenly family and is now home with the Lord.  Jay was born on Dec. 3, 1935 in Chicago, Ill. to Sonny and Dorothy Efting. 

He moved to Bangor with his family when he was 7 and lived in the VanAuken Lake area most of his life.  He married Alice (Hills) Efting in 1956, and they have been married for 62 years.

Jay was the quintessential cowboy.  Rough and sometimes gruff, but always caring passionately about his family, his friends, his animals and especially his horses.  It was their mutual love of horses that brought he and Alice together.  Their first date was attending a horse auction. It is not surprising that his life and his family’s revolved around his love and passion for his horses.

Jay was a farrier (blacksmith) for most of his adult life and well into his '70s.  He loved visiting with horse friends while caring for their horses.  He trained and rode racehorses, was a life member of the Van Buren Sheriff’s Posse and later the Osceola Sheriff’s Posse after he and Alice moved to Baldwin.  Later in life, Jay learned the joy of driving horses.  He and Alice loved to hitch Jara and Sis to their wagonette and drive the backroads in the Baldwin area. They drove several times on Mackinac Island and even attended a couple of national driving events around the county.

He was also a farmer. Jay was raised and lived on a farm all but the first seven years of his life.  Together with his dad, his brother Ross and nephews, Steve and Greg, Jay was an owner and operator of Efting’s Eggery from 1972 until he retired in the late 1980s.  

In 2005, Jay and Alice moved from their home in Bangor to their beloved Whitetail near Baldwin in Lake County.  Jay literally built a little piece of paradise, which Alice named Running Whitetail, mostly with his own hands.  Yes, it was set up for horses, and the family will always have Whitetail as a monument to the man, husband, father, uncle, brother and friend to many that was Jay Efting.

Jay was preceded in death by his in-laws, Bert and Ester Hills; his brothers, Todd and Danny Efting; and a special friend, Maryann Smith.

Jay leaves behind his wife, Alice; his children, Diane (Terry) Ficorelli, Scott (Judy) Efting, Amy Post and Jay (Beth) Efting; 9 grandchildren, Lori, Ken, Kelly, Kaleb, Paige, Claire, Jayce, Tyler and Travis;  great-granddaughters, Anabelle, Noelle, Linda Rose and Elenore; bonus kids, Lynn Sawyer and Katy Otton; many nieces and nephews; and his beloved beagle, Spike.

A celebration of Jay’s life was conducted at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018 at First Congregational Church, 125 Charles St.; Bangor. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to Caring Circle Hospice (05055 Blue Star Hwy; South Haven, MI 49090) or the First Congregational Church in Bangor. Arrangements entrusted to the Bangor Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

Robert Edward Martin

Robert Edward Martin, 80, of South Haven, passed away Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018 at his home under Hospice care. Robert was born Jan. 13, 1938 to Raymond and Voleta (Higby) Martin in Belding. Robert honorably served his country in the United States Air Force from 1955 to 1958. He later worked for Woodland International in Grand Rapids for 32 years before his retirement in 2005. Robert and his wife Carole moved from Belding to South Haven in 2006 where they were members of the Bethel Baptist Church.
He is preceded in death by his parents – Raymond and Voleta Martin.
Robert is survived by his wife – Carole Martin of South Haven; son – James (Amy) Botsford of Newcomerstown, Ohio; grandchildren – Shelbie (Steven) Eckelberry of Coshocton, Ohio, Falon Botsford of Coshocton, Ohio, Taylor Botsford of Newcomerstown, Ohio, Jessica (Evan) Roberts of Niles and Melynda (Ed) Shane of Newcomerstown, Ohio; ten great-grandchildren; brothers – Chuck (Joyce) Martin of Clarkesville and Harold Martin of Belding; and sister – Shirley (Doug) Ruedinger of Taylors, SC. Several nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive.

Services will be scheduled for the Spring of 2019. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Robert’s memory to Caring Circle Hospice at Home, 05055 Blue Star Highway, South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Joyce Otten

Joyce Otten, 97, of Glendale, passed away Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018 peacefully in her sleep at the Meadow Wood Nursing Home in Bloomingdale. Joyce was born March 24, 1921 to John S. and Pearl (Lockwood) Davis in South Haven where she lived the majority of her life in addition to the Glendale area.

She worked at Bohn Aluminum in South Haven for several years. Joyce was a talented pianist and began playing the piano at the age of five. She would play with her brother Claude on the violin at community dances and parties. Joyce later lived out on the farm and took care of her grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her first husband – Crawford Davis and her last husband – Claude R. Otten. Also preceding are her three brothers – Richard, Claude and Gerald Davis.

Joyce is survived by her sons – Michael and Greg Davis and Claude and Jeff Otten, daughter – Sally Anderson, 15 grand- and step-grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
Family and friends are invited to a memorial event scheduled for early in the summer of 2019. Friends may contact Joyce’s children for further details. Contributions may be made in Joyce’s memory to any organization of the donor’s choice. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.





Charles “Chuck” Edward Satkey

Charles “Chuck” Edward Satkey, 90, of South Haven, passed away Sunday, Nov. 4, 2018 at his home under Hospice care. He was born Sept. 22, 1928 in Rush, NY and raised by John and Angeline (Gallas) VanWynen.

He honorably served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War as a paratrooper. Chuck married June Haines on October 18, 1952. They shared 66 years in marriage. Chuck was a carpenter by trade and built homes in the South Haven area along with Marty Strebeck. He enjoyed fishing. Chuck was a member of the First Church of God.

He is preceded in death along with his parents by a step-sister – Joanne.
Chuck is survived by his wife – June Satkey, children – Wanda Blackbear of South Haven, Charles (Sonda) Satkey of Bangor, Douglas Satkey of South Haven, and John (Elanor) Satkey of South Haven; grandchildren – Josh Satkey, Ethan Robertson, Holly Widdis and Douglas Satkey, and great-grandchildren – Cameron and Aubrey Satkey.

Memorial services were at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018 at the First Church of God with Pastor Steve Starks officiating. Chuck was laid to rest at Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven. Contributions may be made in Chuck’s memory to the First Church of God, 567 Broadway St, South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Mary Lou Schepers

Mary Lou Schepers, age 95, of South Haven, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018 at the River Ridge Assisted Living Center.

Mary Lou was born Sept. 11, 1923 in Grand Rapids to Donald and Lucy (Bookwalter) Colborn.

She married Bob Schepers on Dec. 15, 1945 in McBain and he preceded her in death in 2012.

Mary Lou was a graduate of McBain High School and became a registered nurse. She trained at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids and went on to work at the Olin Health Center at Michigan State University.

Mary Lou was a lifelong lover of dogs. She loved listening to music; especially classical and jazz guitar. She enjoyed singing and playing the piano.

She had been a member of the McBain United Presbyterian Church and attended the Faith Reformed Church in Traverse City.

Mary Lou was the devoted and loving mother of Jim (Nancy) Schepers of South Haven, and Ginny (Rollin) Sanders of Sharon, Mass.; beloved grandmother to Rob (Stacey) Schepers of Grand Rapids, Katy (Michael) Paull of Columbus, Ohio and James (Sarah) Sanders of Guilderland, NY and loving great-grandmother to Alice, Cora and Hazel. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews and the many friends she has acquired throughout the years from Zeeland, McBain, Jackson, Muskegon, Elk Rapids, Traverse City and South Haven.

A time of gathering was from 1-3 p.m., Friday, Nov. 9, 2018 at Young-Holdship Funeral Home in Lake City with burial following in Mount View Cemetery in McBain.

Memorial contributions may be directed to an animal shelter of choice.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family online at www.Young-Holdship.com







Week of Nov. 5

Steven L. Bristol

Steven L. Bristol, age 73, of Bloomingdale, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 30, 2018 in Bloomingdale, with his family by his side. Steve was born May 28, 1945 in Traverse City, the son of Richard and Helen (Cox) Bristol, and lived in Bloomingdale the last 30 years.

He retired from the Department of Mental Health after 32 years of service and was also a veteran of the United States Army. He loved spending time just being outside, listening and playing music, especially on his guitar with his family or anyone else that was around. His greatest joy was spending time with his family.

Surviving is his wife of 30 years, Lou Ann (Flinn) Bristol; his son, Tony (Debbie) Bristol of Jackson; his daughter, Emily (Max) Bristol of Plainwell; his grandchildren, Billy and Kristy; his great-grandsons, Landon and Simmy; his mother-in-law, Rosie Flinn; and a special friend, Marty.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a son, Eric.

The family will meet friends from 10 a.m.-11 a.m., Friday, Nov. 9, 2018 at the Bloomingdale Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com,  where the service will follow at 11 a.m. Burial will follow the service at Fort Custer National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to: Alzheimer’s Association, the Southwest Region.

Shirley Marie Burrous

Shirley Marie Burrous, 82, of South Haven, went to her new Home, Oct. 29, 2018 to be with her husband Don. She was born Dec. 22, 1935 to Gordon and Gertrude (Lamp) Butler in South Haven.

She married Donald Burrous on Oct. 12, 1952. They shared 65 years of marriage before his passing in 2017. Her children and grandchildren hope to see her again in the future when they will have her famous potato salad, pies, cinnamon rolls and whatever else she’ll surprise them with. They will have a huge family reunion. What a life she has lived by touching so many that she loved. There is a hole in our heart that only she can fill.
She is preceded in death along with her husband by her sister – Lillian Hall.

Shirley is survived by her children – Don (Kathy) Burrous of South Haven and Bonnie (Randy) Schultz of Watervliet, brother – Roger (Susan) Butler of South Haven, four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Visitation was from 10:30-11 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Memorial services followed visitation at the funeral home with Pastor Douglas Clayton officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Shirley’s memory to Caring Circle Hospice at Home, 05055 Blue Star Highway, South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.



Week of Oct. 28

Bobby Joe Tanner

Bobby Joe Tanner, 70, of Bangor, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2018 at Watervliet Hospital. Bobby was born Dec. 27, 1947 in Benton Harbor, the son of Carl and Madaline (Robertson) Tanner, and lived the majority of his life in the Bangor area.

He was a member of the South Haven Wellness Center and New Day Church in Watervliet. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle, his Thursday morning breakfast club, reading and hanging with his grand- and great-grandchildren and family.  Bobby was a very giving person, who never met a stranger.

Surviving are his wife Linda, whom he married May 25, 2013; 3 daughters, Leisa (Les) Hankins of Bangor, Leann (Kirby) Rice of Bangor and Peggy (Robert) Dalecki of South Haven; 2 step-sons, William Slayton of Bangor and Dustin Roberts of Hartford; 8 grandchildren, Jessica, Samantha, Randy, Breanna, Catilyn, Kristen, Meaghan and Bryan; 6 great grandchildren; 2 brothers, Donny (Oneeta) Tanner, Jerry Tanner; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Loraine Tanner and 2 brothers Jimmie and Ray Tanner.

The family will meet friends from 5-8 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 30 at the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home where the funeral service will take place at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 31 with Pastor Scott Saylor officiating. Interment will follow in Thomas Cemetery, Bangor Township. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com



Harry Guy Rouse

Harry Guy Rouse, 80, of South Haven, succumbed to cancer at the Hanson Hospice Care Center in Stevensville on Oct. 23, 2018.

Harry is survived by his wife Elizabeth (Linderman) of 60 years; daughter Chris Greene; sons Scott Rouse and Kevin (Sheryl) Rouse; brother Kenneth (Syd) Rouse; sisters Virginia Terrell and Lorna (Fred) Walters; 6 grandchildren, Sarah Johnson, Somer Johnson, Clay Johnson, Scott Rouse, Walter Rouse and Joshua Hasty; 9 great-grandchildren along with many loved nieces, nephews and extended family.

Harry was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend to everyone. He was preceded in death by his parents William Rouse (father), Bertha Marks (mother), and James Marks (stepfather) and sisters Betty LaMerrell and Barbara Collins.

Harry worked for the State Highway Department for 29 years, a job he loved. After retirement from the state he was employed at Overisel Lumber and Tractor Supply. He enjoyed fishing and hunting and did so until his health no longer allowed it. Harry was always there to help relatives and friends with household projects, coached baseball, was a Boy Scout leader and Awana Commander when his children were growing up and enjoyed his bowling league. He was an active member of the Midway Baptist Church, loved the Lord and was always there to lend a helping hand.

A special thank you to everyone at the Hansen Hospice Center for their loving care and support during his final days.

Visitation will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018 at the Midway Baptist Church, Watervliet, with a memorial service following at 11 a.m. Afterwards there will be a luncheon. Memorial donations may be made to Midway Baptist Church, 7517 Red Arrow Highway, Watervliet, MI 49098 and the Hanson Hospice Center, 4382 Cleveland Ave, Stevensville, MI 49127.

.

Weed of Oct. 21

Patricia Jean Brucki

Patricia Jean Brucki, 82, of South Haven, passed away Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018 at her home with her family by her side. She was born Sept. 12, 1936 to Samuel and Agnus (Taveirne) Patterson in Peru, Ill.

Patricia worked for Yellow Freight in Joliet, Ill. before retiring in 1999. She enjoyed gardening, making rosaries from rose petals, and sailing aboard her “Dragon Lady” sailboat. She most of all cherished her time spent with her children and grandchildren. She was a member of the St. Basil Catholic Church in South Haven.

She is preceded in death along with her parents by children – Sue Anne and David Brucki, brother – James Patterson, and former husband – Jerry Brucki.
Patricia is survived by her children – Paul Brucki, Mary (Jon Isom) Marr, Margie (Terry) Walsh, Kris (David) Sheehy, and Katia (Skiff) Skiffington; brother – William (Betty) Patterson; and twin-sister – Pamela Miller. Eleven grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren also survive.
Private family services have been held. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Robert Charles Mason, Jr.

Robert Charles Mason, Jr., 23, of South Haven, passed away Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018 at his home. He was born Aug. 8, 1995 to Robert Sr. and Angela Samuel in Allegan.

Following his high school graduation, Robert worked as a handyman, a millwright, and a cook. He enjoyed fishing and hiking in the woods and loved spending time with his son, Levi. 
Robbie was a loving son, father, brother, grandson, nephew, uncle and cousin to many. He is survived by his parents – Robert (Rose Marie) Mason, Sr. of South Haven and Angela Samuel of Hartford; grandparents – Robert and Mary Ann Mason and Jerry and Laverne Meyer; son – Levi Mason; expecting son – Hunter Mason who is due in January; the love of his life – Shannon Caldwell, and siblings – Brooklyn and Katelyn Mason, Kyle Till, Charity Hopkins, Dawn Henderson, Brenden Buck, and Adam and Ayden Johnston. 

A celebration of life is being planned for a later date. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com. 
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333. 
 

Julie Ann McGhan

Julie Ann McGhan, 72, of Elkhart, Ind., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018 at her home, surrounded by God’s love and her family. Julie was born on July 25, 1946 in South Haven to the late Irving W. and Ruth (Bryant) Willis.

She married Ken D. McGhan on Jan. 11, 1975 in South Haven, Ken survives, as well as 7 children - Kimberly McGhan, Brad (Melissa) Willis, Brian (Elaine) Willis, Michael (Connie) Benner, Carrie Ann (Marvin) Dausman, Adam McGhan and Abby (Brad) Bell; 21 loving grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren; and her sister Lurline (Kingsley) Sears. She was preceded in death by 2 brothers, Phillip and Jerry.

Julie was a loving wife, mother and grandma. Her life was caring for her family and heart for all children. She was a member of Calvary Assembly of God Church, where she was active in the children’s ministry and programs; she also sang in the choir and played piano. She also enjoyed traveling and visiting new places with Ken. A special thank you to her nurse Mary from Goshen Hospice for taking such wonderful care of our mom.

Services celebrating the life of Julie Ann McGhan will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018 at Calvary Assembly of God Church. 1010 east Mishawaka Road. Elkhart, Ind. Pastor Brian Whidden will officiate. Per her wishes, cremation was chosen. Arrangements are under the care of Billings Funeral Home, Elkhart.

Grace Josephine Taylor

Grace Taylor, age 86, of Bangor, passed away on Oct. 11, 2018 at her home with her loving family by her side. She was born on Sept. 8, 1932 in Casco Township, the daughter of Anthony and Evelene Janosky.

She graduated from South Haven High School. She lived in the Bangor area for most of her life and was retired from Haworth. Grace, aka “lawnmower lady,” enjoyed spending time mowing lawns, spending time doing crafts with her family, but most of all spending time making memories with her family.

Surviving are her children, Jim (Sundra) Taylor of Grand Junction, Valerie Veller of Peru, Ind., Vicki (Bill) Rupczynski of South Haven and Jeff Taylor of Bangor; 12 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren. Also surviving are sister Dorothy Stacy of Galesburg; sister-in-law Peggy Yeider of Bangor and brother-in-law Don Taylor of South Haven.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James, whom she married on July 17, 1954, and many brothers and sisters.

Visitation was Sunday, Oct. 14, 2018 from 5-7 p.m., and Monday Oct. 15 from 10-11 a.m. with a funeral service that followed at 11 a.m. at D.L. Miller Funeral Home in Bangor. Memorials can be made to Hospice at Home of South Haven in lieu of flowers.

Week of Oct. 14

Marion (Bennett) Farrell

Marion Celeste Farrell (neé Bennett) passed away peacefully Oct. 10, 2018 in South Haven at the age of 93.

Her children Dan (Mary) Farrell and Kim Farrell; brother Art Bennett; grandsons Earl (Billie Jo) Kohlhoff, Curt Farrell and Jason Farrell; and great-grandson Brendan Farrell survive Marion.

Her parents, Wilbur and Celeste Bennett; her brothers, Lorne and Erwin; her sister Bea (Bennett) Funk; and her daughter Ellen (Farrell) Kohlhoff, preceded her in death.

Marion was born on Dec. 8, 1924 in South Haven. She worked at South Haven Rubber Company and Holly’s Restaurant. Over the years, she enjoyed traveling with her sister Bea, splitting wood for her fireplace, and playing Bingo regularly for miles around. She had a keen eye for finding even the most elusive morel mushrooms every spring.

Marion was a member of St. Basil’s Catholic Church of South Haven. Of all her accomplishments in life, most of all Marion will be remembered as a feisty, strong woman and a devoted single mother who lovingly raised three rambunctious children who always were her first priority.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Marjorie Lucille Frost

Marjorie Lucille Frost, 99, of South Bend, formerly of Benton Harbor and South Haven, passed away Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018 at her home with her children by her side. She was born March 22, 1919 to Fritz and Lillie May (Baker) Buttleman in Montague.

Marjorie moved to Benton Harbor in 1951 with her husband John and four children. She helped with her husband’s business, the Frost Funeral Home, for many years while working at VM Corp. She was active in many organizations including Eastern Star, White Shrine, Girl Scouts and the PTA. After moving to South Haven, Marjorie became an avid golfer and was active in the garden club. Following the death of her husband, Marjorie moved to North Muskegon where she became a champion shuffle boarder. She lived a full life and will be greatly missed by her family.

She is preceded in death along with her parents and husband by a great-granddaughter.
Marjorie is survived by her children – Ralph (Ann) Frost of South Haven, Carol (Gary) Ward of Watervliet, Constance Harrold of South Bend, and Joanne McMuller of Crozet, Va. Eleven grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and five great-great grandchildren also survive.
Private family services have taken place. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

Eugene Everett Johnson

Eugene Everett Johnson, 79, of South Haven, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2018 at his home. He was born April 5, 1939 to Everett and Ella (Garner) Johnson in Forest City, Ark.. Eugene married Leona Sellers on Dec. 21, 1957. They shared 60 years of marriage.
He is preceded in death along with his parents by a brother – Ervin Johnson.
Eugene is survived by his wife – Leona Johnson of South Haven, children – David Johnson of Paw Paw and Judy (Jason) Moore of Bangor, brother – Alton (Jean) Johnson of South Haven, sister – Mary Helmes, five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, Oct. 15, 2018 at McDowell Cemetery in Casco Township with Pastor Mick Schmid officiating. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333.

Emmigene Long

Emmigene Long, of Grand Junction, assed away Saturday, Oct. 6, 2018 at home surrounded by her family.  Emmigene was born April 4, 1937 in Ida Ark., the daughter of the late John and Susie Winfrey and had lived in Grand Junction since 1954.  She was an avid gardener, bicyclist, hiker and walker.  Emmigene truly loved nature and cherished time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren and the many vacation trips over the years.  She also enjoyed camping, animals and her many pets.  Surviving is her husband Robert whom she married in 1960; 2 daughters Kathy (Renee Couey) Haynes and Karen (Mark) Taylor; 2 grandchildren, Starr Long and Christopher Taylor; a brother Delmar (Virginia) Decker; many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents and a son, Kenneth Long.   

Funeral services were held  Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2018 at the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com, with pastor Dan Spicer officiating.  Interment took place in Grand Junction Cemetery.  The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Al-Van Humane Society of South Haven. 

Callie Lee Starks-Mister

Our beloved Callie Lee Starks-Mister was born on July 13, 1934 to the late Donnie and Willie Starks in Grenada Miss. She was loving-natured, had an enormous heart, and a fierce eye for fashion. The love she embraced for her family made her the “heart, soul and matriarch” of the Mister family. On Oct. 4, 2018, she quietly carried her soft-lit torch and closed a huge chapter of her life story in which we all are here as a family - immediate or extended, and friends from near or far to celebrate her beautiful soul.

Callie accepted Christ at an early age, and throughout her life journey, she continued to spread the love of the Lord and encouraged others who had problems and could not solve them to “Turn it over to Jesus - He’ll work it out! While living in Covert, Callie fellowshipped with Trinity Baptist Church under the guidance of the late Noble Sanders - later on fellowshipping with Gospel Tabernacle Baptist Church. Her message was always “One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism!” Callie worked and retired from Covert Public Schools for which she gave her expertise in culinary. She had a Ph.D in cooking and helping others; furthermore, church was her number one mission, she wanted to assure that all the people she loved knew the Lord.

Callie was united in matrimony to Orlander Mister who precedes her in death, and to this union they both gained an amazing family together - sons David (Theresa) Starks, Co-Pastor Mac (Margie) Mister and Robert W. (Pearlie – preceded in death) Mister; daughters Missionary Erma Brown, Missionary Maggie (Elder William) Atkinson, Barbara (Lee – preceded in death) Lewis and Missionary Alberta Self. Jointly, they shared 3 sons - Maurice Mister, Donald Anthony Mister and Orlander Manzell Mister, and daughter Carol Lee Mister.

Callie and Orlander Mister had a mission sent to them from God (becoming foster parents) and this truly was their calling which was to save children and provide a safe haven for them. Callie would care for granddaughters Dorothea Jones and Shemeki Woody throughout their childhood, and gracefully to this family union the Lord sent daughter Shelia Mister. Within a few months, they received daughters Michelle, Rhonda, Shenita Edwards, and one son James Edwards who precedes her in death. Continuing to spread the love of Jesus, daughters Patrice, Santasha, and Willenna Williams were added to this beautiful union. Although this task was very challenging at times, she reminded us that when you’re covered by the “Blood of Jesus” anything is possible! Callie later adopted daughter Shaquana Simpson, and son Jermaine Crockett, also caring for Bituin Arcinas, La’Quita McGowan-Wallace, Shanika Lewis and many other children until her retirement.

Callie has five brothers who precede her in death - Joe, Randolph, D.J., George and Thomas Starks, and one sister Donnie Lee Wilson. She leaves to mourn one sister Eula Neal of Athens Georgia. Callie Mister has an enormous family which are too numerous to name; however, she also leaves to mourn 83 grandchildren, 116 great-grandchildren, 120 great-great grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, other relatives and friends.

Wake was held from noon-1 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018 at the Gospel Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church in Covert. Funeral services followed wake at 1 p.m. at the church. Callie will be laid to rest at Covert Cemetery. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Norman Popp

Norman Popp, 87, of South Haven, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Oct. 4, 2018 with his family at his side. Norman was born Oct. 26, 1930 to Loren and Myrtle Popp in Bangor. Norman married Lillian Richards on Nov. 25, 1950 in South Haven. He belonged to the Operating Engineers Local 324 for 65 years.

Norman enjoyed the family gatherings with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and next couple of months, two more great grand babies. His greatest joy came from being with his family at any occasion. Some of Norman’s happiest moments in life came from the many family vacations and cruises and all of the Great RV Camping trips. He was on the Board of Directors for Van Buren County Youth Fair for 46 years and had the greatest dedication to the youth program. Norman was an avid bowler for over 60 years.

Norman is survived by a son: Dale Popp; three daughters: Sandra (DeWayne) Lents, Christine Westerfield and Deborah (Tracy) Burrows, all from South Haven; 6 grandchildren: Jason and Jamie Popp, Sarah (Brian) Sholes, Cory Burrows, Casey (Robin) Burrows and Matt (Kate) Lents; 2 great-grandchildren: Tyler and Noah Sholes; great-great granddaughter Eleanor Sholes; and his brother: Milford (Penny) Popp of Bangor.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Lillian; a sister, Reva Kuhn; and daughter-in-law, Sandi Popp.

Visitation was noon-2 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 9, at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home. Funeral services began at 2 pm at the funeral home with Rev. Jeffrey S. Dick officiating. Burial took place at Monks Cemetery, Geneva Township. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Norman's memory to the Van Buren County Youth Fair, PO Box 271, Hartford, MI 49057 or to Caring Circle Hospice at Home, 05055 Blue Star Highway, South Haven, MI 49090.

Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com. The family is being assisted by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven.







Week of Oct. 7

Joseph Bournay

Joseph Bournay, age 81, of Bangor, passed away Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018 at Hanson Hospice Center in Stevensville. Joe was born on May 5, 1937 in Niles, the son of Jacob and Elizabeth Raab, and grew up in Dowagiac and lived in Bangor for the majority of his life.

Joe was a manager for the State Liquor Commission in South Haven. Joe spent two years in the Army as a unit armorer fixing small arms weapons. He was an avid sportsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing and trapping. When he wasn’t hunting or fishing he enjoyed playing horseshoes and was an avid bowler in the Bangor and South Haven bowling leagues. He enjoyed spending time camping and fishing at Ottawa Lake near Iron River. He was an all-around handy man and builder, as he helped his sons build their houses.

Surviving is wife, Wanda (Huston); two sons, Bruce Bournay, of Augusta and Steve Bournay of South Haven; one granddaughter Alexis Bournay, and his dog, Shadow. Also surviving are two brothers, James Bournay of LaPorte, George Bournay of Dowagiac; one sister, Betty Tomczak of Dowagiac; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Fred, Bernard and Conrad; and sisters, Maryann and Adaline.

According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. Memorials can sent to Hanson Hospice Center. A private inurnment will take place with a memorial service to be announced at a later date. Arrangements by the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com

Leon Hough Brush

Leon Hough Brush went home to be with the Lord on Sept. 30, 2018, at River Ridge Retirement Village in South Haven. He was born on July 3, 1930 in South Haven. His parents were Forrest W. and Flora Brush of Casco Township.

Leon attended the Hadaway School and then graduated from South Haven High School in 1948. He then married the love of his life, Patsy Diane Lilly, in 1950 and soon after settled down to raise a family and pursue his passion of farming. He was said to have farming in his blood. They also loved the Lord and served in several area churches. They were able to travel around the country in their later years with their large fifth-wheel trailer in tow. Many winters were spent in Florida and later in Texas where they increased their number of friends and enjoyed being away from the cold winter months. They retired and sold the farm in 1996 and then built a new home on the original farm right next to the house they had built for themselves when they first married.

Patsy survives along with their children, Sherry and Tom Barnes, Arnold Brush, John and Lou Ann Brush, and Debbie Brush Crane (John), along with 10 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren.Three brothers also survive, Alan (Kay) Brush of Holland, Ronald (Patricia) Brush of South Haven and Roger (Eunice) Brush of Zeeland.

He is preceded in death by his parents, one sister, Arlene, and two brothers, Raymond (Betty) Brush and William (Helen) Brush and daughter-in-law Pam (Arnold) Brush.

Visitation was from 5-7 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services were at 11 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 4, 2018 at the funeral home with Rev. David Meister officiating. Leon was laid to rest at McDowell Cemetery in Casco Township.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Leon’s memory to Caring Circle Hospice at Home, 05055 Blue Star Hwy., South Haven, MI or to the Truth Skate Ministries, 05251 CR 689 South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Hilda Burza

Hilda Burza, age 84, passed away Sept. 30, 2018 at her home with her family by her side. She was born May 29, 1934 in Paw Paw, the daughter of Irwin and Alice DeWaters.

She graduated from Lawrence High School. She lived in the Paw Paw area for most of her life and was a homemaker raising her three sons. Hilda enjoyed taking care of animals, including her beloved cat, Suzie, deer watching, spending time with family and friends and going up North to the Mackinac Bridge.

Surviving are her sons, Vince Burza (Paw Paw) and Jeffrey Burza (Gobles); four grandchildren, Justin (Bethany) Burza, Danielle (Nick) Burza-Smith, Staci (Cornelius) Donald  and Brittany (Steve) Papierz; and seven great-grandchildren, Eliana, Trevyn, Kamryn, Brielle, Kaia, AJ and Amelia.

She was preceded in death by her son, Eric Burza; parents, Irwin and Alice; younger sisters, Martha Twardowski and Alice Mae; and brother, Irwin Jr.

Services were held Thursday, Oct. 4, 2018 at the Gobles Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.



Mary Leona Knarian

Mary Leona Knarian, 81, of Bangor, passed away Thursday, Sept. 27, 2018 at Bronson Commons with her family by her side. She was born Dec. 17, 1936 to Harold and May (Roser) Brearley.

Mary was an only child raised in Covert where her father Harold drove bus. Her mother passed away when Mary was seven. Mary’s aunt Irene would become a second mother to her. Mary worked as a waitress for many years at Holly’s in South Haven. At home, Mary always had a fresh pot of coffee brewing to greet visitors.
She married Vahee Knarian June 30, 1956. They shared 58 years of marriage together before his death in 2015. Mary and Vahee were always very proud of their children and grandchildren. Mary and Vahee enjoyed going out for meals, especially with family and friends during their retirement years. They always took the scenic route wherever they went and enjoyed stopping at road-side sales along the way. After Vahee’s passing, Mary’s grandson Steven chauffeured her to appointments and shopping. Mary treasured their time together.
Mary’s last four months were spent living comfortably at Bronson Commons in Mattawan where the loving and caring staff were a blessing to her and her family.
She is preceded in death along with her parents and husband by her uncle and aunt – Harry and Irene Bearley.
Mary is survived by two daughters – Virginia Roe of South Haven and Barbara (James) Bollnow of Bangor; grandchildren – Amy Roe, Ashlee (Nick) Matteo, Dylan Roe, and Steven and Nicole Bollnow; brother-in-law – Vahakn Knarian of Kalamazoo; and sisters-in-law – Bergouhi McNutt of Kentucky; Margaret Baber of Portage and Barbara Knarian of Otsego.
Visitation was from 10-11 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2018 at St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Haven. Funeral services followed visitation at 11 a.m. at the church with Pastor Stephen Daley officiating.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Mary’s memory to St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church, 718 Arbor Court, South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

William M. Purk

William M. Purk of Grand Junction left this earth for his heavenly home on Thursday, Sept. 20, 2018. He was born Jan. 19, 1947 in Kalamazoo.

He was the oldest of six children born to Raleigh and Ruth (Beach) Purk. He graduated from Bangor High School in 1965. He served his country during the Vietnam War era. He married Kathrine Siboloski on July 3, 1982 and resided in Grand Junction the remainder of his life.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents and younger brother James Purk.

Bill is survived by his wife; four sisters – Barbara Johnson of Glendale, Julie Purk of Bangor, Gail Horton of Bangor and Nancy (Donald) Landeau of Georgia. He is also survived by four sons – David Siboloski, Timothy Purk, Michael (Catrina) Siboloski and Scott (Heather) Purk and a special daughter by heart, Jennifer Hayes; 14 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Bill worked at Everett Piano Co. for 18 years until its closing and then he worked at Magna Mirrors until retirement nine years ago.

A memorial service will be held at noon, Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 115 E. Monroe St., Bangor with Rev. Matthew Reis officiating. A luncheon will follow.

In lieu of flowers the family is requesting memorials be made to Trinity Lutheran Church.

Julie A. Rogers

Julie A. Rogers, age 86, of Gobles, passed away Monday, Oct. 1, 2018 at her home surrounded by her family.  Julie was born March 29, 1932 in South Haven, the daughter of the late Jack and Naomi Goodrode and had resided in Laurel, Miss. for many years prior to moving to Gobles in 2013.

She enjoyed traveling, especially to California.  She also enjoyed crocheting and had worked as a telephone operator for many years.

Surviving are her 2 daughters, Cheryl (Jim) Winfield and Denice (Terry) Mason; grandchildren, Cheryl Swan, Angie Burgett, Jessica Mason, Amy Mason and Maccius Mason; great-grandchildren, Ericka, Mikey, Corey, Freddie, Gage, Elijah, Raven, Xeriouse, Patience Alisa, and Lazarah; a sister-in-law Kathy Goodrode; many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

She was preceded in death by a son Gerald Ignelzi, her parents, brothers Alfred and George, a sister, Sarah Teske and her former husband Anthony Ignelzi.

Following her wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are being scheduled.  Arrangements entrusted to the Bloomingdale Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.     

James “Jim” Byron Ward

James “Jim” Byron Ward, 66, of South Haven, passed away peacefully Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018 at home. He was born April 18, 1952 to Byron Ward Sr. and Elizabeth (Maans) Ward in South Haven and later graduated from South Haven High School with the Class of 1970. He married his better half Connie Haygood on May 15, 1976 in South Haven.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Connie Ward of South Haven; children, Jamie (Mike) Gross and Amy (Daniel) Benfield, both of St. Joseph; granddaughters Kennedy and Reagan Gross; brother, Byron (Kathleen) Ward of Hamilton and many nieces and nephews.

Jim was known by all as a tireless worker and retired as maintenance superintendent at Louis Padnos Iron and Metal. He loved to golf, fish, tinker, was the “resident gadget guy” and enjoyed traveling with his family. He especially enjoyed being “papa” to his sweet little granddaughters, they were the most recent joy in his life.

Jim was the rock for his entire family and a friend to many, he will be dearly missed by all!

Visitation was from 6-8 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 4, 2018 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services were at 1 p.m., Friday, Oct. 5, 2018 at LifeBridge Church with Pastor Milan Bittenbender officiating.

Contributions may be made in Jim’s memory to The Gross Children College Fund via Filbrandt Funeral Home or LifeBridge Church, 10420 M140 Hwy., South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333.



Week of Sept. 30

Leona Irene Bunch

Leona Irene Bunch died on Sept. 26, 2018 at Countryside Nursing Home in South Haven.  She was bornSept. 9, 1927 at home in Casco Township.  Her parents were Leo and Lillian (Hutton) Decker.

As a child, Leona attended Crow School, liked to ride horses, and farmed with her father.  She graduated from South Haven High School in 1943, and then worked at McGuire Coffee Company, and later at Vic Nolan Tax Service.  Leona enjoyed singing with a barbershop quartet called the Step Sisters.

She married and had son Jeff in 1951.  She later married Jack Bunch and had son Brian in 1960.  She was an Air Force wife, and they lived in many places including Kansas City, Mo. and Livonia.

After military life, they retired to South Haven and their blueberry farm. She loved nothing more than driving the blueberry harvester, and did that until she was 70.  Leona was an active member of Michigan Blueberry Growers Association from 1946 to 1998. 

Leona and Jack were members of the South Haven Country Club.  Leona was active in the women's league, and in June of 1998 achieved the golfer's dream of a hole in one.  She also enjoyed dancing at Shriner events and participating in Air Force Thunderbird activities.  Leona was also a member of the Casco United Methodist Church and sang in the choir.

Surviving are her sister Roberta Newton; sons: Jeff (Linda) Bunch of Allegan and Brian (Jane) Bunch of Grosse Pointe Woods; grandchildren: Justin (Brittany), Nick (Jessica), Matt, Eric, and Andrew; great-grandchildren: Mason and Jaxton; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and her faithful dog Honey.

She was preceded in death by her husband and love of her life Jack Bunch and her brother Robert Decker.

Visitation was from 3-7 p.m., Friday, Sept. 28 at Filbrandt Funeral Home in South Haven.  A viewing was held from 10-11 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 29 at Casco United Methodist Church, 880 66th St., South Haven. A service followed visitation. Burial occurred at Stephenson Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in Leona's memory are asked to consider South Haven Al-Van Humane Society or Casco United Methodist Church.  Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven 269-637-0333.

Carol Marie (White) Hodgman

On Sept. 6, 2018 at the age of 95, Carol Marie (White) Hodgman was called home to be with her Lord. She passed quietly from this life to her reward in heaven at her home in Bangor, where she had lived her entire life.

Carol was born on March 6, 1923 to Zell and Helen (Manthei) White. She was valedictorian of the graduating class of 1939 at Bangor High School. On Oct. 23, 1943, she married William (Bill) Hodgman at Bangor Church of Christ. They had celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary before Bill passed.

Carol had worked all her life on a farm. First she worked on her parents' farm, and then Bill and hers. She ran the family fruit stand on M- 43 Highway until she inherited her parents' blueberry plantation in 1971. She retired from active farming in 2004.

Carol was a member of Bangor Church of Christ, where she participated in many ways. She played the piano for Sunday School opening, and taught Sunday School classes and Vacation Bible School. She helped with youth activities until she had a stroke. Carol was a member of the Willing Workers' Guild; which later became Women In Flux.

Carol also had time to help with community events. She belonged to Farm Bureau, Community Helping Hands group, Geneva Women's Club, Cub Scouts, and was a "Band Grandma."

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a dear daughter-in-law, Anne Hodgman, a dear "adopted" daughter, Elizabeth Cain, and a dear "adopted" granddaughter, Bethany Cain.

Carol managed to rear four sons who survive: Robert (Lynn) Hodgman of Muskegon, Richard (Karen) Hodgman of Kalkaska, Ronald Hodgman of Bangor, and Russell (Kathy) Hodgman of Bangor. Also surviving are six grandchildren: Marcia (Tony) Kafkakis, Mary Deb (Dean) Rabourn, Matthew Hodgman, Michael (Beki) Hodgman, Rachel (Bill) Edmondson, and David (Rebecca) Hodgman; 13 great-grandchildren, and many other loved ones and friends.

Carol was an example to all who met her. She served in whatever way she could her entire life.

A memorial service will celebrate her entrance into heaven at 2 p.m., Oct. 6 at Bangor Church of Christ. Visitation with the family will begin at 1 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Carol's name to Bangor Church of Christ.  Arrangements entrusted to Bangor Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com

Carla Ann (Wilkinson) Youngblood

Carla Ann (Wilkinson) Youngblood was born to Carl and Wilda Wilkinson on Oct. 5, 1958 in Allegan and passed away peacefully at her home in Hayesville, NC on June 28, 2018.

Carla graduated from Bangor Public Schools after having spent a few years in Alanson, Mich.  She worked at Everett Piano Co. in South Haven after high school and then moved to Bonita Springs, Fla. where she met her husband, Jay Youngblood.  Carla and Jay owned and operated Bamboo Marina in Bonita Springs for many years before moving to Hayesville, NC where they have owned and operated Chatuge-Cove Marina for the past 18 years.

Carla loved fishing, traveling and her sweet dog “Ruby,” but most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family and her dear friends.

She is survived by her husband of 29 years, Jay Youngblood; her two sisters, Joyce (Hector) Wilkinson and Rhonda (Dave) Wilkinson; and her two brothers, Mike (Donna) Wilkinson and Ike (Kathy) Wilkinson.  She is also survived by her Aunt Marigene Henry, many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, great-great nieces and many cousins.

She is preceded in death by her brother, Chad (Kay) Wilkinson and her parents, Carl and Wilda Wilkinson.

The family is planning a celebration of Carla’s life and appreciates your thoughts and prayers at this time.





Week of Sept. 23

Jerry Jan Hull

Jerry Jan Hull, age 78, of Marion, NC formerly of Bangor, passed away Monday, Sept. 10, 2018 at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Mr. Hull was born March 6, 1940 in Niles to the late Luther Hull and Willow Reid Sanders. He was the owner/operator of Jerry Hull & Ray Sanders Well Drilling for over 50 years. He was a hard worker and a good provider and he never complained. Mr. Hull was a quiet, kind man. He found enjoyment after his retirement by spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by his stepfather, Ray Sanders.

Those left behind to cherish Mr. Hull’s memories are his beloved wife of 40 years, Iris Mida Hull; five children, Jerry “Junior” Hull, Ty Hull, Rene’ Becker, Scot Duverney and Leticia Cape; six grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and three sisters.

A private service was held at McDowell Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in Mr. Hull’s memory are asked to consider, Care Partners Hospice & Palliative Care McDowell, PO Box 25338, Asheville, NC 28813 or Cancer Care of WNC, 21 Hospital Drive, Asheville, NC 28801.

Beam Funeral Service & Crematory is assisting the Hull family. For further information and/or to sign the online guestbook, please visit our website,www.beamfuneralservice.com , or by calling (828) 559-8111.

Doris Statler

May 31st, 1931 an only child was born to the couple who resided at 32 Chestnut Street in the Cereal City, Battle Creek, Michigan. Little Doris Statler would grow up during World War II and help her mother with the boarders that the family took in to their cavernous house with doors leading off in all directions, concealing countless closets and attics. When her favorite Uncle Bill would pass through town on the train she and her mother would meet him at the train station where he would deliver dresses and other gifts to his niece before continuing on to his rooms at the Palmer House Hotel in Chicago where he resided. She would often times see the white linen clad figure of Dr. John Harvey Kellogg pedal by on his bicycle, practicing what he preached; fresh air and exercise, along with his vegetarian diet and treatments.

Doris’s mother Ruth and father Rotch, a mechanic at a Chevrolet garage in town, were able to build a small cottage on Gull Lake where she first found the freedom of a little boat with an outboard motor. She explored Gull Lake and could never get enough of Lover’s Lane, Idlewild and the Island. She would

share her love of the water with her children and friends throughout her entire life.

Doris would spend time in one of the great cereal factories of Battle Creek as a tour guide, explaining the different stages of manufacturing and the history of the Post Cereal company. She enrolled in Western College for Women but would transfer and graduate from the University of Michigan, no small accomplishment in the day. Always interested in literature, art and travel she certainly was inspired by her mother Ruth who took young Doris to Europe for an extended 6-week trip in the early '50s.

She made the long trip to Kalamazoo to establish her family with husband Peter Curtenius Statler, experience all of the joys and sorrows of raising a family and dedicate years of her life to community service with the Junior League, the Kalamazoo Art Center, Pretty Lake Camp, the Service Club and others. An avid bridge player, tennis player and later, platform tennis, she was also an accomplished and graceful skier carving up the hills of Boyne Mountain with Stein, “bend zee knees,” Eriksen, as well as Mont-Tremblant and Aspen.

In the early '80s she made straight for the family home on Lake Michigan following her divorce where she spent countless hours enjoying the peace and quiet, beautiful sunsets and the songs of the local birds whose calls were always outside the house and on the Audubon bird call records from her collection. Friends would worry that she was lonely and she would always say that she knew exactly where to find company whenever she felt the need. Independent from the start, as I suppose an only child would be, she relished the solitude and beauty of Glenn Shores. Well in to her 60s Doris showed that windsurfing was not about size and strength but grace and balance. Many an aspiring young windsurfer learned some tips from her.

A high school reunion at Battle Creek Central would reunite her with her old boyfriend and she and Richard “Dick” Kriner would go on to spend many happy years traveling the country, visiting Dick’s children, passing several months with friends in the area surrounding Venice, Fla. and playing golf, both in Florida and around Michigan. They maintained close ties with their Battle Creek friends from high school days and cheered on their college teams during football season. The Michigan – Michigan State game was always a little tricky as Dick was a graduate of MSU.

Doris never lost her optimism and appreciation of the beauty of life in spite of the loss of her daughter Laura Sue Statler and her partner Dick. Her small frame carried a mighty soul and she was a mother and friend to many. She loved the music of Jimmy Buffett and his words sang her on the way to the next adventure the evening of Sept. 15, 2018 at the Hanson Hospice Facility.

She is survived by her son Timothy H. Statler, granddaughters Carley E. Statler and Olivia H. Statler, all of

Petoskey, and Julia R. Statler of Kalamazoo.

An open house and celebration will take place on the shores of Lake Michigan from 1-4 p.m., on Saturday Oct. 13, 2018 at 1155 Edgewater Terrace, South Haven, MI 49090, where friends and family are welcome to arrive to share memories and enjoy lunch. Please RSVP via email to timoteostatler@gmail.com or via phone (231) 348-8620. Casual Lake Michigan dress, Parrothead attire entirely appropriate. Should you wish to make a donation in memory of Doris to your local Hospice angels please feel free to do so.

Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.



Week of Sept. 16

Betty L. Byrd

Betty L. Byrd, 88, of South Haven, died Saturday, Sept. 1, 2018 at South Haven Bronson Hospital.  She was born March 26, 1930 in Allegan to Elva (Harrington) and Jack Tripp.

She married Bernard Byrd on Feb. 5, 1954 in South Bend, Ind.  Betty was a member of the M-43 Church of Christ in South Haven.  Betty had a strong faith and was not able to get out to church, but found comfort in watching and worshiping on television.  When she was out, she enjoyed eating at Cracker Barrel restaurants.  She also liked sitting at the beach and the McDonalds at Walmart visiting with friends. She loved her grandchildren.   
She is preceded in death by her husband - Bernard Byrd, son - Richard Byrd, brother – Jack Tripp, sister – Nancy Wauchek, and son-in-law – James Martin.
Surviving are her children – Patricia Martin, Jerry Byrd and Robin Ramsey, all of South Haven; five grandchildren – Ed (Paula) Martin, Allen (Christie) Martin, Tricia (Jake) Finkbeiner, Heather Ramsey and Jason (Casey) Byrd; 11 great-grandchildren – Samantha, Cameron, Warren, Joy, Jaron (Nikki), Chelsie, Carleigh, Hailey, Kaitlyn, Elijah and Raven; great-great grandson, Kyler; brother Pete (Kerry) Tripp of Powell, Ohio;  and special niece Sherry Marr.   
Visitation will be from 2-3 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 23 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Memorial services will begin at 3 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Jeffrey S. Dick officiating.  Betty will be laid to rest at Chambers Cemetery in Geneva Township.

Friends wishing to make a memorial contribution can do so to Al Van Humane Society, P.O. Box 421 South Haven, MI 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FIlbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Anna Frances Cobb

Anna Frances Cobb, 88, of South Haven, passed away Thursday, Sept. 6, 2018 at the Amber Place Heritage Center in Kalamazoo. She was born Aug. 20, 1930 to John and Mary (Mistretta) Maggiore in Grand Haven.

Anna married Leo Maihofer in 1951. They shared 23 years in marriage before his passing in 1974. She later remarried Vincent Cobb and shared 24 years before his passing in 1999. She was a member of St. Basil Catholic Church and active with South Haven Community Hospital Auxiliary and the Scott Club.
She is preceded in death along with her parents and husbands by a son – Michael R. Maihofer and three brothers.
Anna is survived by her son – Tom (Anne) Maihofer of Kalamazoo; stepdaughters – Anne (Steve) Wessling of Fremont and Susan (Don Collom) Johnson of Novi; grandchildren – Jennifer Hewitt, Christine Lighthart, Amy Smith, Mellisa Harris, Joanna Venezia, Stephanie Weber and Sara and Laura Maihofer, and 16 great-grandchildren.
Mass will be held at noon on Monday, Sept. 17, 2018 at St. Basil Catholic Church in South Haven with Fr. Jim Morris officiating. Anna will be laid to rest at Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven. Contributions may be made in Anna’s memory to St. Basil Catholic Church, 513 Monroe Blvd., South Haven, MI 49090 and/or to Heritage Community of Kalamazoo, 2400 Portage St., Kalamazoo, MI, 49001. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333.

Jacqueline M. Eldred

Jacqueline M. Eldred, 85, of Grand Junction, passed away Wednesday, Sept. 12, 2018 at home surrounded by her family.

Jacqueline was born March 24, 1933 in Benton Harbor, the daughter of the late Neil and Margaret Starbuck and had lived in the area for the majority of her life. She enjoyed crocheting, hummingbirds and going to the casino.

Surviving are her children, Rose Eldred, Robert Eldred, Debbie Foune, Wendy Eldred and Melissa Eldred; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great grandson; a sister Mary Rupczynski; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Muryl "Babe" Eldred, a son Frederick Eldred, a sister Beverly Anderson and her twin sister Joanne Ellison.

Following her wishes cremation has taken place.  The family will meet friends from 5-8 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 18 at the Bloomingdale Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

Interment will take place at Ft. Custer National Cemetery.  Arrangements entrusted to the Bloomingdale Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home.

Cynthia Jordan

On Thursday, Sept. 13, 2018, "Cindy" Cynthia Jordan, 60, of Holland, went to go live in heaven.

She joined her husband Paul, once again walking hand in hand, as they greet many members

of the family and live for eternity pain free.

 Surviving is her son, Byron Jordan, his wife Heather and daughters Josie and Zoey;

her daughter Carrie Gilliland; her husband Frank and their children Frankey and Autumn.

Also left behind are several brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews who she loved so dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Byron and Wilma Goodrich.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to those who were supportive through this journey.

 A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Sept. 19, 2018 at Allegan Bible Church, with Pastor John Gruss officiating. Inurnment will follow in Lindsley Cemetery.

 Arrangements were entrusted to the Bloomingdale Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.   

Larry James Lammert

Larry peacefully passed away on Sept. 8, 2018 surrounded by his loved ones. Larry was born on Feb. 15, 1953 in Decatur, Ind.

He was a proud Army veteran. Larry lived in Colorado for 30 years, moving to Terra Haute Indiana in 2011 working for NCR as ATM Technician.. After retiring Larry moved to the Sister Lakes area, and worked part time for Four Winds Casino as a valet. In life he was strong willed and had an energetic personality. He loved to play competitive sports such as softball, darts and pool. His all time favorite past time and where he found peace was out on the lake or a dock fishing.

Larry was determined to never give up during his two-year battle with throat cancer, as his heart was becoming weak. He lived life to the fullest.

He is survived by his daughter Sara (Tony) Baez, grandson Damien Baez of North Carolina, father John Lammert, sister Cheryl (Robert) Molter, brother Edward (Cathy Moore) Lammert, and nieces Laura Long and Lisa Lockhart. He was preceded in death by his mother, Norma J. Lammert.

Arrangements have taken place at Purely Cremation in Benton Harbor per his request. The family will have a private gathering. Run free Night Wolf, run free. 

Lester Warner Otto

Lester Warner Otto, age 83, a lifelong resident of South Haven entered into eternal peace with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, Sept. 6, 2018 surrounded by family. Lester was born July 14, 1935, the son of the late Archibald and Vanna Otto.

Lester loved and cherished his family and friends and was especially proud of all his children and loving wife Dorothy. Lester was a member of Kibbie Christian Reformed Church, Michigan Travel Club and the Retreads Motorcycle Club. During Lester’s 39-year working career he worked for National Motors Castings and Haworth.

Lester was married to his sweetheart Dorothy for 61 years. Together they raised their 5 children and enjoyed their retirement years motorcycling, camping and spending winters at their home in Florida. Surviving are their 5 children: Dennis Otto, Steve (Kate) Otto, Mark (Sue) Otto, Doreen Bartholomew and Brenda (Rob) Victor, brother James (Pat) Otto and cousin Belvalu (Joe) Krizan. Lester cherished his 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
Preceding him in death are wife Dorothy Otto, son-in-law David Bartholomew, and cousins Ray Lockwood, and Hiram Lockwood.

Contributions may be made in Lester’s memory to Kibbie Christian Reformed Church or Al-Van Humane Society. Visitation was Saturday Sept. 15, 2018 at Kibbie Christian Reformed Church, 479 County Road 687, South Haven, MI from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m, with a memorial service immediately following at 11 a.m.











Week of Sept. 9

William Harris, Jr.

William Harris, Jr., 73, of Grand Junction, passed away Thursday, Aug. 30, 2018 at the Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community in South Haven. He was born March 26, 1945 to William Harris, Sr. and Maude Swift Tarbon in Chicago, Ill. William honorably served his country in the United States Army as a Paratrooper from 1967 to 1969 during the Vietnam War. William at one time enjoyed horse back riding and enjoyed spending time at the Simpsarosa Stables in Grand Junction. He was an avid Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears fan.

William at one time enjoyed horse back riding and enjoyed spending time at the Simpsarosa Stables in Grand Junction. He was an avid Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears fan.
William is survived by his wife – Jodi Harris of Covert, son – William Aaron Harris of Covert, special sister – Cynthia McNeil of Grand Junction, and a host of nieces and nephews.
Memorial services will be held at 4 p.m., Saturday, Sept.15, 2018 at Kibbie Christian Reformed Church with Pastor Ken Kruithoff officiating. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Katherine Delores Kelemen

Katherine Delores Kelemen, 63, of Pullman, passed away Monday, Sept. 3, 2018 at Bronson Hospital in South Haven. She was born Dec. 27, 1954 to Steve Kelemen and Shirley (Ingraham) Barnes in South Haven.

She worked for SE Overton, American Twisting, and Taylor Controls before her health kept her from working. In her youth, Katherine enjoyed playing softball and bowling. She also enjoyed completing puzzles, reading books, and playing electronic poker.
She is preceded in death by siblings – Steve Kelemen, Jr. and Sheryl Whitker.
Katherine is survived by her siblings – Pat Kelemen of Pullman, Mike (Pat) Kelemen of South Haven, John (Wilma) Kelemen of Benton Harbor, and step-sister – Debbie Davis of Alabama.
Services are not scheduled at this time. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Charles Levering

Charles Levering, age 72, of Grand Junction passed away Monday, Sept. 3, 2018 at Bronson Hospital, Kalamazoo. Charles was born on Dec. 22, 1945 in Kalamazoo, the son of Charles and Martha (Zweedyk) Levering and lived in Grand Junction the majority of his life.

He served in the U.S. Army during Vietnam.  He enjoyed working, fishing and spending time with his family. His family will miss time talking politics and religion.

Surviving are his children, Theresa Levering of Kalamazoo and Edward Levering of Gobles; brother, Jon and Kris Levering of Grand Junction, whom he spent most of his time with; two grandchildren, Krystal and Edward; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Tom; and a nephew, Jim.

According to his wishes cremation has taken place with a private inurnment in Grand Junction Cemetery.  Arrangements by Bloomingdale Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhomecom.

Melvin Tim Marr

Melvin Tim Marr, 85, of Zeeland passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family after a short battle with AML Leukemia Saturday, Aug. 18, 2018. Melvin was born May 25, 1933 in South Haven. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Milton Marr, and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Melvin served in the Korean War from 1954 to 1956. After serving in the Army, he married the love of his life, Etta Mears on Aug. 18, 1957 at Lacota Methodist Church. Melvin spent many years at DuWel Aluminium in Dowagiac, Everett Piano in South Haven, Chris Craft in Holland, and was a firefighter in Dowagiac and Lee Township for more than 20 years. He was also JC Exhausted Rooster in Dowagiac.

After retirement, he enjoyed road trips, driving his antique Case tractor, and fixing anything brought to him. He also loved picnics and family gatherings, especially with a good potato salad and baked beans. He loved his boys - Yoda and Yuck Yuck.

Melvin is survived by his wife of 61 years, Etta; 2 children: Deeon Marr and Tim (Beverly Smith) Marr; 9 grandchildren: Emmalee (Jacob Lee) Marr, Jennifer (Jerome Adair) Marr, Sarah Martinez, Colin Marr, Tim (Keisha) Marr Jr., Kaitlin Brandt, Martha Brandt, Anna Smith, and Joselyn Smith. One brother, Ivan and 14 great-grandchildren also survive.

There will be a celebration of Melvin's life at Bravo Christian Reformed Church, 5587, 113th Ave., Fennville on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, with a service at 1 p.m. and a luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Bravo Christian Reformed Church, or donate blood in his honor. The family was able to spend more time with Melvin thanks to the generosity of blood donations.

Marzie Pearson

Marzie Pearson was born on Oct. 1, 1924, the second daughter of Walter Crook and Annie Belle Thompson in Memphis, Tenn. Marzie passed away Aug. 30, 2018 at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo.
Marzie at the age of 56 years old earned her high school diploma on May 7, 1980 from South Haven High School – Adult Education.
Marzie was married to Junie George Maddox and later William P. Pearson.
Marzie was a faithful member of Emmanuel Community Church since 1945. She was a member of the adult choir, Senior Usher (former president), life long member of the trustee board, Vacation Bible School leader/teacher, and Boy Scout leader.
Marzie confessed Christ in 1934 when she was 10 years old.
Marzie worked many places – for the Hamlin, the Nook, and the Green families in addition to DuWel and South Haven Rubber Company from where she retired.
Marzie loved cooking big meals, bowling, partying with her friends, and of course, talking on the phone with her friends.
Marzie is preceded in death by her parents, step-mother, beloved sister – Beatrice Price, son – William R. Pearson, Jr., and niece – LaWanda Russ.
Marzie leaves to mourn her children – Cubie L. Maddox, Dorothy M. Maddox, Claudia O. Maddox, and Laura E. White; nephews – Robert (Lanette) Garrison; grandchildren – L’Tonya (Andre) Anthony, Terri Sharpp, Chaneca White, Walter Maddox, Sherrese White, Rachel White, and Tempest Maddox; great-grandchildren – Asia Maddox, Amber Maddox, Aaron White, Diamond Anthony, Talia Sharpp, Troi Sharpp, Trevaughn White, Nataijah White, Azariyah White, and Enijah White; great-great grandchild – Azarie Anthony; and a host of friends and relatives.
Wake was from 10-11 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018 at Emmanuel Community Church in South Haven. Funeral services followed the wake at 11 a.m. at the church with Bishop Amere May, Sr. officiating. Marzie was laid to rest at Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family's online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Nancy L. Phillips

Nancy L. Phillips of Kalamazoo passed away Friday morning, Aug. 31, 2018. Nancy was born Nov. 6, 1933 in Cleveland, Ohio, the daughter of the late William and Margaret (Snyder) Levering.

Prior to her retirement she was the owner of the Hidden Room Book Shoppe in South Haven for several years. Nancy was a world traveler and enjoyed meeting and talking to people. She enjoyed volunteering and was just an overall good person.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Robert F. Smith; and her second husband, Claude Phillips.

Nancy is survived by her children, Karen Phyllis Smith (Donald Haack Sr.) and Mark Levering-Smith; and a sister, Jane P. Levering (Lyle) Barhitte of Longview, Wash.

There will be no visitation. A memorial gathering will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association. To view Nancy’s personalized guestbook please visit www.langelands.com.



John Ivan Taylor III

John Ivan Taylor III, age 41, of Bloomingdale passed away Saturday, Sept. 1, 2018 in Wayland. John was born on March 25, 1977 in Kalamazoo, the son of John and Nancy (McClurg) Taylor, and lived in Bloomingdale all of his life.

He loved spending time playing music, especially on his drums, and his greatest joy was spending time with his daughter, Sierra. He was happiest when taking care of her and making her laugh. Their special bond was obvious to everyone.

Surviving is his daughter Sierra; his mom, Nancy (McClurg) Taylor; his best friend, brother Tommy Taylor of Comstock; and his sister, “the Boss,” Dawn Taylor of Caledonia. His love for his family was second to none.  He believed in family first.

Also surviving are his nieces, Lacey, Emily, Tracey, Makayla, Mary and Kaylee Sue; his nephews Walker, Dillion, Kayden, Tommy and Trent; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his dad, John Ivan Taylor Jr. and his grandparents.

The family met friends on Wednesday and  Thursday, Sept. 5 and 6, 2018 at the Bloomingdale Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.  Burial followed at Tucker Cemetery.  



Week of Sept. 2

Melvin Tim Marr

Melvin Tim Marr, 85, of Zeeland, MI passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family after a short battle with AML Leukemia Saturday, Aug. 18, 2018. Melvin was born May 25, 1933 in South Haven. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Milton Marr, and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Melvin served in the Korean War from 1954 to 1956. After serving in the Army, he married the love of his life, Etta Mears on Aug. 18, 1957 in Lacota Methodist Church. Melvin spent many years at DuWel Aluminium in Dowagiac, MI, Everett Piano in South Haven, Chris Craft in Holland, MI, and was a firefighter in Dowagiac, MI and Lee Township for more than 20 years. He was also JC Exhausted Rooster in Dowagiac, MI.

After retirement, he enjoyed road trips, driving his antique Case tractor, and fixing anything brought to him. He also loved picnics and family gatherings, especially with a good potato salad and baked beans. He loved his boys- Yoda and Yuck Yuck.

Melvin is survived by his wife of 61 years, Etta; 2 children: Deeon Marr and Tim (Beverly Smith) Marr; 9 grandchildren: Emmalee (Jacob Lee) Marr, Jennifer (Jerome Adair) Marr, Sarah Martinez, Colin Marr, Tim (Keisha) Marr Jr., Kaitlin Brandt, Martha Brandt, Anna Smith, and Joselyn Smith. One brother, Ivan and 14 great-grandchildren also survive.

There will be a celebration of Melvin's life at Bravo Christian Reformed Church, 5587, 113th Ave., Fennville on Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, with a service at 1 p.m. and a luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Bravo Christian Reformed Church, or donate blood in his honor. The family was able to spend more time with Melvin thanks to the generosity of blood donations.

Mattie Lee Tice

Mattie Lee Tice, 92, of Covert, passed away Monday, August 27, 2018 at the South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Community. She was born September 26, 1925 to James and Rosa Belle Salter in Sardis, Mississippi. Mattie was baptized in 1935 at ten years of age. Her family later moved to Chicago, Illinois in 1946. She married Peter Tice in 1960 before moving to Covert, Michigan a year later. She joined the Gospel Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church in Covert, Michigan in 1995.
She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter – Rose Webb, grandson – Donnell Doll, siblings – Ernestine Harris and James Salter, Jr., and daughter-in-law – Theresa Johnson.
Mattie is survived by her step-son – Erick (Ronda) Johnson of Hartford, grandchildren – Darrick Jones of Hartford, Ericka Williams of Jonesboro, Georgia, Trivenna (Arnold) Baber of Hartford, Tyrita (Thomas) Maeder of Hartford, Elkia (Darnell) Tisby of Greenwood, Indiana, Ashley (Christopher) Bolles of Crestline, Ohio, Andrea Terry of Crestline, Ohio, and James Terry of Hartford, 19 great grandchildren, 10 great-great grandchildren, nieces – Barbara Jean (Robert) Wilson of Forest Park, Illinois and Mattie Harris of Batesville, Mississippi, nephews – Richard (Boone) and Henry Harris both of Batesville, Mississippi, great niece – Ernestine (Sugg) Harris, great nephews – Steve, Anthony, Michael, and Twins Harris, and great-great nephew – Walter Harris.
Wake will be held from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM on Tuesday, September 4, 2018 at the Gospel Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church in Covert. Funeral services will follow wake at 2:00 PM with Pastor Henry Allen officiating at the church. Mattie will be laid to rest at Covert Cemetery. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Lovella “Sussie” Sherrell

Lovella “Sussie” Sherrell, 83, of South Haven, passed away Sunday, August 26, 2018 at her home. She was born March 22, 1935 to Joseph and Nellie (Kilgore) Williams in Coleman, Alabama. Sussie worked as a migrant worker for many years. She was also a devoted mother who loved to sew and cook. Her biscuits and gravy were simply the best.
She is preceded in death by her husband – Louis Sherrell who passed in 2008 and children – Georginna and Edward Eugene Sherrell.
Sussie is survived by her children – Michael Sherrell of Attala, Alabama, Billy Sherrell of Holland, Edna (Randy) Green of Holland, Julie Steinburg of South Haven, Wanda Sherrell of Covert, Betty Johnson of South Haven, Glenda Sherrell of Templeton, Pennsylvania, and Joanne (Gene) Sorenson of South Haven, siblings – George Williams of South Haven and Marvin Williams of Pullman, twenty grandchildren, and many great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Wednesday, September 5, 2018 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, September 6, 2018 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Sussie will be laid to rest at Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Elizabeth “Betty” Marie Wroblewski

Elizabeth “Betty” Marie Wroblewski, 81, of Glenn Shores, formerly of Chicago, passed away Sunday, August 26, 2018 at her home under hospice care with her family by her side. She was born July 8, 1937 to Frank and Leona (Dondzila) Babinski in Chicago, Illinois. She married Jerome “Jerry” Wroblewski on October 12, 1957 at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Chicago, Illinois. Betty graduated from St. Bernard’s Nursing Program in 1957 and worked as a registered nurse, but she took her role as a mother first. She enjoyed quilting, antiquing, and cooking. She was especially fond of her traditional Polish recipes.
Betty is survived by her husband of more than 60 years – Jerry Wroblewski of Glenn Shores, children – Celeste (Leslie Orenstein) Wroblewski, Roberta Wroblewski Brenza, and Gregory Wroblewski, all of Chicago, Illinois, as well as grandsons – Eli, Xavier, and Gabriel, whom she treasured most dearly. She will be greatly missed, especially for her loving sense of humor.
Services will be announced at a later date. Betty will be laid to rest at McDowell Cemetery in Casco Township. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Betty’s memory to the Haiti Medical Education Project at HMEProject.org. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.





David Mark Evans

David Mark Evans, 49, of South Haven, passed away Friday, August 24, 2018 at his home. He was born May 3, 1969 to Alan and Elizabeth (Connolly) Evans in Chicago, Illinois. David worked as a runner and phone clerk at the Board of Trade in Chicago for fifteen years. He enjoyed playing video games, taking trips and visiting with friends and family, and spending time with his mother.
He is preceded in death along with his father by a brother – Keith Evans.
David is survived by his mother – Elizabeth Evans of South Haven and sister – Kathryn Anderson of Copperas Cove, Texas.
Visitation will be held from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM on Saturday, September 1, 2018 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services will follow visitation at 3:30 PM at the funeral home with Rev. Jeffrey S. Dick officiating. David will be laid to rest at Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.



Week of Aug. 26

Leslie Grays

Leslie Grays, was born on August 7, 1933 to Oscar and Cora (Alice) Grays in Gilmore, Arkansas. He was the 2nd of 13 children. He was a faithful member of Blue Star Church of God Christ in South Haven where he became a Deacon in 2003. He married his devoted wife Althea Gray in 1978 in South Haven, MI. Leslie worked for National Motors for 27 years, and later for the Watervliet Paper Mill for five years. He later worked as a transportation driver for DHS from which he retired with over 20 years of service. He enjoyed bowling and softball in his younger years playing for the Local Union #90 team. Leslie was an avid bowler and was awarded several trophies and awards while doing so. One of his favorite pastimes with his wife was watching the New York Yankees defeat the Detroit tigers. However, what he enjoyed most was watching his children and grandchildren play baseball and other sports. With his wife and children at his bedside, on Thursday August 16, 2018, at the age 85, Leslie Gray went home to be with the Lord.

He is preceded in death along with his parents by two sons – Lester and Duncan Grays, sisters – Maxine Alexander and Juanita Hinton brothers – Oscar and Ivory Grays - and grandchildren Termaine Cunningham and Harmonie Reign Grays.
Leslie leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 40 years – Althea Grays of South Haven, MI, children – Vanessa Willis of Tucson, AZ, Mary (Ricky) Norwood of Benton Harbor, MI, Leslie Grays, Jr. of Grand Rapids, MI, Cynthia (Charles) Watson of Madison, AL, Allen Grays of Grand Rapids, MI, and Chris Grays of Grand Rapids, MI, siblings – Millie Mae Hodges of Arkansas, Mary Della Williams of Memphis, TN, Geneva Allen of Joliet, IL, Margaret Bruno of Oklahoma City, OK, Jeannette(N.T.) Genous Sr. of Memphis, TN, Terri (Chester) Williams of Gilmore AK, Ronnie (Ella) Grays of Calumet City, IL, and Clay Grays of Memphis, TN. Host of grandchildren, great grandchildren family and friends.
Wake will be held from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM on Wednesday, August 22, 2018 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services will follow wake at 2:00 PM with Reverend Aaron Cobb officiating at the funeral home. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 269-637-0333.

The family would like to take this opportunity to say thank you and express their appreciation to all the friends family and loved ones who have supported us. Thanks for your prayers and your kind words of encouragement during this time of bereavement.

Leonard Michael Kenwabikise

Leonard Michael Kenwabikise, 66, of South Haven, passed away Thursday, August 16, 2018 at the Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo. He was born June 7, 1952 to Paul and Isabelle (Wabanimkee) Kenwabikise in Beaver Island, Michigan. He married Peggy McNees on August 29, 1970 at the First Church of God in South Haven. Leonard worked at Lovejoy Manufacturing in South Haven for 44 years before his retirement in 2015. Leonard was a member of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. He enjoyed hunting, golfing, and fishing. He especially cherished his time spent with his grandchildren. Leonard had many friends.
He is preceded in death along with his parents by his great granddaughter – Annabelle Kenwabikise and siblings – John, Robbie, Stevie, and Doris Kenwabikise and Margaret Way.
Leonard is survived by his wife of 48 years – Peggy Kenwabikise of South Haven, children – Tony (Gail Gumpert) Kenwabikise of South Haven and Tracy Kenwabikise of South Haven, grandchildren – Austin Kenwabikise, Michael Stephens, and Riley and Kyle King, great grandchildren – Kaedin and Chayton Kenwabikise, and siblings – Caroline (Buck) Ramey, Nancy (Denney) Harris, Pauline (George) Anthony, Sarah Bray, Diane (Sonic) Smith, Mary Kenwabikise-Halpen, Joey Kenwabikise, and Jimmie (Barb) Kenwabikise.
Visitation will be held from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM on Monday, August 20, 2018 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services will follow visitation at 4:30 PM with Pastor Gary Guthrie officiating at the funeral home. A Native American Sacred Fire Burning is taking place at the family home until the time of services. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Judith L. Milo

Judith L. Milo, age 81, of South Haven

passed away Monday, Aug. 20, 2018, at the South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Community, South Haven. Judy was born July 31, 1937 in Holland, the daughter of Harry and Edna (Vandenberg) Houtman. She was an RN and worked with Yale University Hospital, and was a longtime member of the Calvary Missionary Baptist Church of South Haven. She enjoyed being an artist, gardening and spending time with family.  Surviving are her 4 children, Jeffery Moore of South Haven, Bridgette Gumpert of South Haven, Shayne Moore of South Haven, Shannon (Kathy) Moore of Bangor; 11 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; and many other nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband, Albert Milo. The family met friends Saturday, August 25, 2018 at the Calvary Missionary Baptist Church 419 Cherry Street; South Haven where the memorial service was 11:00 AM with Pastor Michael Schmid officiating. According to her wishes cremation has taken place. The family suggests memorials be made to Hospice Cares, or to the Church. Arrangements entrusted to the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

John Arthur Wagner

John Arthur Wagner, 70, of South Haven, passed away Thursday, August 23, 2018 at the Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo after losing his battle with cancer. He was born January 14, 1948 to Adolph and Elizabeth (Sawyer) Wagner in South Haven. John graduated from South Haven High School with the Class of 1967. After the passing of his father Adolph in 1971, John “took over” Wagner’s Plumbing and Heating in South Haven which was founded in 1963. John worked with his brother Michael serving the South Haven Community until his passing. He married Lesley Lynn Stephens on August 3, 1968 at the Methodist Church in Bangor. They shared 43 years of marriage before her passing 2011.
John is survived by his children – Todd (Holly) Wagner of Allegan and Kim (Frank) Aldana of South Haven, grandchildren – Maddison, Carter, Carson Wagner, and Talon and London Pirsein, step-grandchildren – Lissy, Tori, Lexy, and Zia Aldana, siblings – Mike (Joyce) and Richard (Alyson) Wagner both of South Haven, niece and nephew – Tiffany and Roger Wagner, and significant other and best friend - Julie Wood. He also leaves behind many dear family members and close friends.
John was a Licensed Master Plumber. He was also licensed as an ASSE International Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester, Certified Training Institutes General Contractor, Mechanical Contractor, and a Boiler Contractor. He was a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose and had been a member of the Rotary Club, a past president of the South Haven and Bangor Men’s Bowling League/Men’s Industrial League. He also belonged to the Pipe Fitters Union.
Visitation will be held from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Tuesday, August 28, 2018 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, August 29, 2018 at the First United Methodist Church in South Haven with Pastor Ron VanLente officiating. John will be laid to rest at the Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven. A benefit dinner will be held on Saturday, September 22, 2018 at the South Haven Moose Lodge to help with John’s lost wages, business, and medical expenses. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FIlbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

 Week of Aug. 19

Shannon Danae Crider

Shannon Danae Crider, 63, of South Haven, passed away Sunday, August 12, 2018 at her home. She was born February 8, 1955 to James and Dolly (Barksdale) Baxter in Poplar Bluff, Missouri Shannon graduated with the South Haven High School Class of 1973. Shannon married Tim Crider on July 2, 1983. She worked at Baseline Middle School in South Haven for 16 years.
She is preceded in death along with her parents by a sister – Jamesetta Campbell.
Shannon is survived by her husband – Tim Crider of South Haven, two sons – Aaron (Gabriela) Cody Crider and Adam Brody Crider both of South Haven, grandchildren – Abigail, Joaquin, and Jamesetta, and sisters – Melody Postle of Shipshewana, Indiana and Barbara Burris of Kokomo, Indiana.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM on Friday, August 17, 2018 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Memorial services will follow visitation at 2:00 PM at the funeral home. Shannon will be laid to rest at McDowell Cemetery in Casco Township. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Ronald Daehn Norman

Ronald Daehn Norman, 80, of Tarpon Springs, FL, passed away Wednesday, August 1, 2018, under Hospice care. He was born February 24, 1938, in South Haven to Margaret and Perry Norman. Ron graduated with the South Haven High School Class of 1957. After four years in the U. S. Navy, he began his career with Mobil Oil Co., working in both New York and Texas. After retiring to Florida, Ron found his dream job as a volunteer coach for the Girls Track Team at Palm Harbor High School. Coach Norman was well liked and respected as a coach and was proud of each and every one of his students. He was especially pleased when he was able to play a role in helping a student apply and be accepted into a college of choice.

Ron is survived by his wife of 57 years, Marian of Tarpon Springs; their sons Thomas (Lisa) of Indiana and David (Rhonda) of Texas; grandchildren Alana, Dana and Josh; great granddaughter Emma Rose; sisters Margie Norman and Renita Larkin both of South Haven; and numerous nephews and nieces.

A memorial service for family and close friends honoring Ron's life will be held October 27 in Florida.

Week of Aug. 12

George Austin Carpenter IV

George Austin Carpenter IV, 82, of Lawrence passed away Saturday, Aug. 4, 2018 at his home. He was born March 25, 1936, to George A. Carpenter III and Frances (Goss) Carpenter in Bangor.

George graduated from Bangor High School in 1953.  He married Dorothy Lamoreaux on Feb. 24, 1973 at the Church of Christ in Bangor.  George operated Carpenter Farms since the age of 18. In 1995, he went to work for Cornerstone Ag Enterprises. He also worked as the night shift supervisor at DuWel Manufacturing.  Most recently he delivered the Van Buren Reminder and Paw Paw Flashes. George loved to read about farming and was a history buff..

He is preceded in death by his parents George and Frances Carpenter III and brother – Joel Carpenter.

George is survived by his wife - Dorothy Carpenter of Lawrence; daughter - Becky (Randy) Gargus of Bangor; grandchildren – Morgan (Jamie) Summerville, Zack, Elijah and Mikaela Gargus; great-grandchildren – Ellie Summerville and Addilyn Gargus; and sisters – Joyce (Richard) Freestone of Bangor and Carolyn (Terry) Fulk of Muskegon.  Several nieces and nephews also survive.

Visitation was from 5-8 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2018 at Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven.   Funeral services was at 11 a.m., on Wednesday, Aug 8 at the funeral home with Rev. Terry Fulk officiating. George was laid to rest at Southard Cemetery, Bangor Township.

Friends wishing to make a memorial contribution can do so to Simpson United Methodist Church, 507 Joy St., Bangor, MI 49013. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Char Nicholson

Char Nicholson, 90, passed away on August 2, 2018. She was preceded in death by her loving husband Ted Nicholson, parents Waldemar and Elsie Radtke, and brother Jack Radtke.
She will be lovingly remembered by her sister Ruth Foglesong, children Rob and Nan Witte, Jeff Nicholson, and Tim and Sissie Nicholson. Her grandchildren Matt and Erin Hitzelburger, Jamie and Amanda Nicholson, Josh Nicholson and Lorin Baum. Her great-grandchildren Tessa Hitzelburger, Max and Sam Nicholson, Logan, Hannah, and Gunnar.
Char was an active member of Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church. She was one of the founding members of the Loyals and was a member of Priscilla Circle.
Char worked as secretary for the Drug and Alcohol Abuse division of Van Buren County Health Services and Palisades Power Plant Information Center in South Haven, Michigan. She was an avid reader, averaging two to three books per week. She was warm-hearted, generous, and caring, excelling in hospitality – planning holidays and get-togethers for family and friends and helping others.
She was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis over 30 years ago, however with her strong and positive attitude, she didn’t let it slow her down. Her strength and bravery to keep going was amazing.
Take comfort in knowing that Char is now joyfully walking and dancing in Heaven and that she brought wonderful love, laughter and happiness to others. The family would also like to thank everyone at Faith Hospice-Trillium Woods for their excellent care, love, and kindness.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 25, 2018 at the Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Haven. Memorial services will follow visitation at 11:00 AM with Pastor Travis Wilson officiating. Contributions may be made in Charlotte’s memory to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, P.O. Box 4527 New York, NY 10163, Faith Hospice, 2100 Raybrook St. SE, Suite 300 Grand Rapids, MI 49546, and Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church, 06321 Blue Star Highway, South Haven, Michigan 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com. The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven, 637-0333.

Hattie M. Cattenhead

Hattie M. Cattenhead, age 85, of Grand Rapids, formerly of Grand Junction

 passed away Tuesday, August 7, 2018 in Grand Rapids.  Hattie was born April 24, 1933 in Alamo Tennessee, the daughter of the late N. C. and Hallie Swift.  Hattie had lived in the Grand Junction area for 55 years prior to moving to Grand Rapids 8 years ago.  Hattie was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and volunteered in several charity programs.  She enjoyed puzzles and had been a member of the Bravo Community Church for many years.  Hattie  especially enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.  Surviving are her 4 daughters, Donna Cattenhead of Grand Rapids, Patricia Cattenhead of Chicago, Cheryl Cattenhead of Atlanta and Daphne Cattenhead of Grand Rapids, and a grandson, Spencer Copeny of Atlanta.  She was preceded in death by her husband Oliver Cattenhead, a son Maurice Cattenhead and her parents.  The family will meet friends on Monday, August 13th from 11 AM until time of funeral services at noon at the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.  Interment will follow in Grand Junction Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the family to assist with funeral expenses.



Arthur Szceepkowski

Arthur J. Szczepkowski, 92, of Grand Junction, passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, August 8, 2018. He was born October 25, 1925 to Adam and Sophie (Lesnikowski) Szczepkowski in Indiana Harbor, Indiana. Arthur met Theresa “Tess” Nowicki when they both worked at Nash-Kelvinator and were married on October 15, 1949 in Chicago, Illinois. He honorably served his country in the United States Army during World War II. He later worked at Garlock Packing, Link Belt and then as a supervisor in the Engineering department at Pullman Standard in Chicago for many years. He was a skilled wood worker and loved the lake and his pontoon boat. Arthur was a proud Chicago Cubs fan and on his 91st birthday finally saw his Cubbies get into and go on to win the World Series. He also liked football and watching the Chicago Bears. Arthur enjoyed family gatherings, listening to music, watching old westerns and comedies and was known for building his elaborate Christmas Village which he proudly displayed in his home every year. He had a good sense of humor which he had to the end. His family was his life. He was much loved and will be deeply missed.

He is preceded in death by his siblings and their spouses Ann (Stan) Szpejnowski, Alfred (Esther) Szczepkowski , Albin (Mary) Szczepkowski, Richard (Vivian) Szczepkowski, and Edward Szczepkowski.

Arthur is survived by his wife of 68 years, Theresa Szczepkowski, children – Mark (Wanda) Szczepkowski of Grand Junction, and Laura Szczepkowski of Cedar Lake, Indiana, grandchildren – Jason (Randi) Szczepkowski of Fountain Hills, Arizona and Carrie (Scott) Earl of Kalamazoo, two great grandchildren – Nadiya and Ishara, and siblings – Adeline (Robert) Dobis and Sophie Kluever, sisters-in-law, and many nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 11th at 10:00 am Central Time at Holy Name Catholic Church with Mass following at noon. Holy Name Catholic Church is located at 11000 W. 133rd Avenue, Cedar Lake, Indiana. Arthur will be laid to rest at a later date at the Veterans Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Joliet, Illinois. Contributions may be made in Art's memory to Allegan Wings of Hope Hospice or Parkinson's Foundation. The family would like to extend their special thanks to all the caregivers who have cared for Arthur the past 2 years. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 269-637-0333.







Week of Aug. 5

Vincent E. Fritz, Jr.

Vincent E. Fritz, Jr., age 74

of Bangor, passed away Tuesday, July 24, 2018 at Care Community in Battle Creek, MI. Vinny was born December 25, 1943 in South Haven, MI the son of Vincent and Harriet (Burlingame) Fritz. He lived the majority of his life in Bangor.  He was a life time member of the First Congregational Church of Bangor, bowled on a bowling league, worked on the family farm, enjoyed driving tractors at the Michigan Flywheelers Museum Parade, and taking long walks around Bangor. Vinny was a kind and gentle man.  Surviving are his brother, Paul (Undine) Fritz of Bangor; niece, Lory (Tom) Shaw; nephews, Russel (Abby) Pliley, David (Melissa Williams) Golden, Jason (Dani Ryskamp) Fritz, Eric (Debra) Fritz, Carl (Ashley) Fritz; and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister, Karen Pliley. The family will meet friends 10-11 AM Monday, August 6th at the First Congregational Church of Bangor where the funeral service will be 11:00 AM with Pastor David L. Markel officiating. Interment will follow in Arlington Hill Cemetery, Bangor. The family suggests memorials be made to the Church. Arrangements entrusted to the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

Frances Drucilla Cagle

Frances Drucilla Cagle, 90, of South Haven, passed away Friday, July 27, 2018 at the South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Community. She was born July 8, 1928 to Joseph and Ethel (Smith) Rayburn in Hackleburg, Alabama. Frances married Earl Cagle on March 30, 1945. They were married 51 years before his passing in 1996. Frances loved her family, her pets, and gardening. Frances was an avid reader and a great cook who loved to feed everyone.
She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and son – Joe Cagle, six brothers – Lonnie, George, Ed, JE, LV, RT Rayburn. Great granddaughter – Madeliene Scruggs, and son-in-law – Dan Kelley.
Frances is survived by her children – Gail Peterson, Barbara Kelley, Robert (Donna) Cagle, Darcy (Joe) Quinnan, Jim (Sandi) Cagle, and Debbie (Gary) Waite, daughter-in-law - Carla Cagle. Twelve grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, and one great-great grandson.
Visitation will be held from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Thursday, August 2, 2018 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services will follow visitation at 12:00 PM at the funeral home with Pastor Jerry Koller officiating. Frances will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband, Earl at Monks Cemetery in Geneva Township. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 269-637-0333.



Week of July 29

Vincent E. Fritz, Jr.

Vincent E. Fritz, Jr., age 74, of Bangor

passed away Tuesday, July 24, 2018 at Care Community in Battle Creek, MI. Vinny was born December 25, 1943 in South Haven, MI the son of Vincent and Harriet (Burlingame) Fritz. He lived the majority of his life in Bangor.  He was a life time member of the First Congregational Church of Bangor, bowled on a bowling league, worked on the family farm, enjoyed driving tractors at the Michigan Flywheelers Museum Parade, and taking long walks around Bangor. Vinny was a kind and gentle man.  Surviving are his brother, Paul (Undine) Fritz of Bangor; niece, Lory (Tom) Shaw; nephews, Russel (Abby) Pliley, David (Melissa Williams) Golden, Jason (Dani Ryskamp) Fritz, Eric (Debra) Fritz, Carl (Ashley) Fritz; and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister, Karen Pliley. The family will meet friends 10-11 AM Monday, August 6th at the First Congregational Church of Bangor where the funeral service will be 11:00 AM with Pastor David L. Markel officiating. Interment will follow in Arlington Hill Cemetery, Bangor. The family suggests memorials be made to the Church. Arrangements entrusted to the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.



2018 Obituaries

Week of July 22

Emmett Larry Ridley

Emmet Larry Ridley passed away peacefully at the age of 81 on January 15, 2018 with his children at his side in his Green Valley, Arizona home. Larry was born to Emmet and Fey Ridley on July 23, 1936 and spent his childhood years in South Haven, Michigan. As a member of a farming family, Larry enjoyed the comradery of six siblings: Wayne, Chuck, Bonnie, Carol, Betty and Eldon. While in high school, Larry courted Dixie Lee Sherwood, and the two attended Michigan State University before marrying. Together they experienced the joy of raising three children: Brent (Patricia), living in Colorado; Rick (Debra), living in Arizona; and Cynthia (Mike), living in California – all of whom graduated from their parents’ alma mater of MSU. Larry took enormous pride in being their father and remained involved in their lives until his expiration. Larry’s four grandchildren (Mason, Kylie, Avery and Callie) enjoyed his stories and humor during family reunions and holidays. Upon earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Horticulture from MSU in 1958, Larry embarked on a fruitful career in the food processing industry. In the early 1990’s, Larry utilized his horticulture expertise and family-farm upbringing to create and develop Dixie Lee Plantations, a successful blueberry production operation in Bangor, Michigan. When Larry and Dixie decided to retire full time, he sold the company, and he and his wife settled permanently in Green Valley, Arizona in 2010.

Larry’s life was gratifying, purposeful, ambitious, dedicated and adventuresome. His generosity, wisdom and leadership were widely recognized and received by his family, friends and employees. Memories of his strong and warm character will be remembered fondly by his children, grandchildren, family and friends. A private memorial service for family and close friends honoring Larry’s life is set for later this month.

Dorothy Elaine “Dot” Swanson

Dorothy Elaine ‘Dot’ Swanson passed from this life  on July 5, 2018, at home in South Haven, Michigan. She was born July 18, 1943, in Junction, West Virginia, to Guy and Margaret (Corbin) Hartman, one of nine children. She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Nels Peter Swanson of South Haven, Michigan; her daughter Erika and and son-in-law Lucas Sponsler of Parma, Michigan, and their children Stella and Hart; son Fritz Swanson and daughter-in-law Sara and their children Oscar and Abi of Manchester, Michigan; two brothers, Donald Hartman and Ralph Hartman of Keyser, West Virginia; one sister, Margaret “Sallie” Wingate of Richmond; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Dot taught school for four years in Mineral County, West Virginia, and then four more years in South Haven, Michigan, before moving to Parma, Michigan, and working as a librarian for the Jackson District Library from 1982 to 2002. Upon “retirement” and a return to South Haven, she worked from 2003 to 2017 at Glenn Public School. She loved working with children and volunteered with her own children’s teachers and continued to be involved in their later teaching careers. Dot especially enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s various events and activities. 

Donations can be made in her name to any of the above school systems, to the Friends of Parma Library, or to the cancer research charity of your choosing, as Dot was a 25-year cancer survivor.

At her request, no services will be held as she chose the gift of anatomical donation to the University of Michigan Medical School. Special thanks to Caring Circle Hospice, and to all the medical professionals over the years who helped Dot work to live a life of vibrant enthusiasm. Interment will take place at a later date at Elijah High Cemetery in Purgitsville, West Virginia.

Macel Lenora Johnson

Macel Lenora Johnson, of Cadillac and formerly of Bangor, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 18, 2018 at Samaritas Senior Living. She was 94.

Macel was born on February 11, 1924, in Kalamazoo to George and Ethel (Race) Wheaton. She entered into marriage with Wilmer A. Johnson on November 19, 1945, at the First Christian Church in Bangor, MI. Wilmer preceded her in death following 41 years together in June of 1986.

In earlier years Macel spent time bowling and gardening, as well as enjoying many wonderful vacations traveling with family and friends.  She could often be found passing time crocheting or reading one of her many paperback books. She had an undeniable sweet-tooth and made certain her birds stayed well fed.  Macel will be deeply missed by all who had the opportunity and pleasure in knowing her.

Macel is survived by her loving family; her daughters, Carol L. Hall of Cadillac, and Diane (James) BIRNER of Breedsville, MI; five grandchildren, Gary Johnson of Bangor, Melissa (Mike) Whipple of Kalamazoo, Robert (Tiffany) BIRNER of Breedsville,  David (Bree) Hall of Cadillac, and Jennifer (Rob) Anderson of Marquette; nine great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; as well as many other loving family members and friends.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Wilmer; a son-in-law, Doug Hall; her parents; two sisters, Darlene and Velma; and a brother in infancy, Melvin.

Funeral services were held at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Cadillac on Saturday July 21, 2018, with Rev. Joel Hess officiating. Interment and committal services will take place at the Arlington Hill Cemetery in Bangor, at 10:30 am on Monday, July 23rd. Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association or Emmanuel Lutheran Church of Cadillac. 

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family online at www.Hitesman-Holdship.com

The family is being served by the Hitesman-Holdship Funeral Home.  

Andrew J. Gorenz

Andrew J. Gorenz, 58, of South Haven, passed away Thursday, July 12,2018 at his home under Hospice care. He was born July 21, 1959 to Edward and Ruth (Silingo) Gorenz in Alsip, Illinois. Andrew worked various jobs in maintenance. He married Lisa Caudill in August of 1986. They shared 31 years in marriage. Andrew enjoyed the outdoors fishing and gardening. He also cherished spending time with his daughter, helping others, enjoyed giving out hugs, and cooking.
He is preceded in death by his father – Edward Gorenz, a brother – Edward Jr. and sister - Diana.
Andrew is survived by his wife – Lisa Gorenz of South Haven, daughter – Hahna Gorenz of South Haven, mother - Ruth Gorenz, and sisters – Arlene Donnelly of Manteno, Illinois and TeriAnn Wippo of St. John, Indiana.
Visitation was held fon Friday, July 20, 2018 at the St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Haven. Funeral services followed, with Pastor Stephen Daley officiating. Contributions may be made in Andrew’s memory to the family for an education fund for Andrew’s daughter Hahna. 

South Haven, Michigan 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Week of July 15

Karen C. Barnett

Karen C. Barnett, age 65 of Bangor, passed away Monday, July 9, 2018 at the South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Community, South Haven.  Karen was born October 29, 1952 in Chicago, IL the daughter of Virgil and Joan (White) Barnett and has lived the past 9 years in the Bangor area.  She loved playing pool and played on the APA and was a member of the Bangor VFW. She had many friends and family in Bangor, South Haven, Illinois, and Florida.  Surviving are her mother, Joan D. Panfil of South Haven; 3 sisters, her loving sister Peggy (Margaret) A. Coomer of Coloma, Kathy L. Kline of Kalamazoo, Cindy Clegg-Kline of Parchment; 2 brothers, Tim Panfil and Todd Panfil (and their families) both of Lockport, IL;  nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews; and many other family and friends. According to her wishes cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later time. The family suggests memorials be made to the West Michigan Cancer Center. Arrangements entrusted to the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

Edward Joseph Kozlowski

Edward Joseph Kozlowski, 92, of South Haven, passed away Sunday, June 8, 2018 at the Lakeland Regional Medical Center surrounded by his family. He was born in Chicago, Illinois on February 4, 1926 to Paul and Mildred Kozlowski. Ed was a veteran of World War II, serving honorably in the US Navy in the Atlantic and Pacific Theater on a Mine Sweeper from 1944 to 46.
He graduated from South Haven High School in 1944. Ed worked for the City of South haven Water Works Department for many years and later became part owner of B & K Machin Products with his brother Bruno until his retirement. He was a lifetime member of the BPOE (Elks), the American Legion, and the VFW. He was a member of the Sacred Heart Parrish in Bangor and then transferred to St. Basil Parrish in South Haven where he worshipped faithfully for many years.
In his early years, Ed was an avid golfer and bowler, with a hole-in-one and a 300 game to his accomplishment. On April 30, 1994 he married Christy Bergstrom Smith. He would say, “It was the best thing I ever did.” His favorite times were spent enjoying and experiencing life with his family. He loved going to all his grandchildren’s activities and sporting events. Ed had a great sense of humor, a huge heart, and enjoyed sharing both with his loving family.
He is survived by his wife - Christy, brother - Bruno (Barbara) Kozel of Glouster, Massachusetts, nieces - Lisa LeVasseur, Laura Calcheras and nephew Rob Kozel, children – James Smith Jr. and Laurie (Tom) Tanczos, brother-in-laws – James and Oscar (Wanda) Bergstrom, sister-in-law – Carol (Duane) Noykos, cherished grandchildren – Kristin (Phill) Reinink, James (Rachel) Smith III, and Taylor Tanczos, great grandchildren – Reese Christine and Crue Charles Reinink, and many nieces and nephews – Sandy (Bill) Warren, Karen (Jeff) Dombrowski, Matt (Sonja) Noykos, Cheryl (Dave) Ondrias, Aaron (Tara) Tanczos, and Megan (Nate) Shank.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother – Joseph Kozlowski, sister-in-law – Marie Bergstrom, brother-in-law and wife – Charles and Marion Bergstrom, life-long friend – Ron Kozlik, and beloved dog “Buddy” who passed away seven days before Daddy Ed.
Visitation will be held from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday, July 12, 2018 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Friday, July 13, 2018 at the St. Basil Catholic Church with Father Jim Morris officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Ed’s memory to the St. Basil Catholic Church, 513 Monroe Boulevard, South Haven, Michigan 49090 or to the Al Van Humane Society, PO Box 421, South Haven, Michigan 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Josh William Spencer

Josh William Spencer, 57, of Kentwood, formerly of South Haven, passed away Wednesday, July 11, 2018 at the Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. He was born November 7, 1960 to Robert and Violet (Baker) Spencer in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Josh worked as a customer service representative for Change Health for the past five years. He was an excellent photographer and especially skilled in photographing cars. He graduated from Davenport College where he was a member of Alpha Kappa Psi. He enjoyed collecting jackknifes and was a fan of Battle Star Galactica and Star Trek. He was a member of the St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Grand Rapids.
Josh is preceded in death by his father - Robert Spencer Sr. and sister – Rachel Spencer.
Josh is survived by his mother – Violet Spencer of South Haven, siblings – Robert Spencer, Jr. of Cape Canaveral, Florida and June (Tony) Tranker of Troy, Illinois, nephews – Derek and Collin Tranker, and many cousins.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM on Sunday, July 15, 2018 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Memorial services will follow visitation at 3:00 PM with Pastors Travis Wilson and Dave Blank officiating. Contributions may be made in Josh’s memory to the St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, 3215 Four Mile Road, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49525 or Caring Circle Hospice at Home, 05055 Blue Star Highway, South Haven, Michigan 49090. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.



Alice Keeny

Alice Keeny, 78, departed this world to heaven on Tuesday July 3rd, 2018. Her devotion to her family and her belief in God supported her in her struggle and ultimately gave her peace.
Alice was born on August 8th, 1940 to Arthur and Millie Selles in Benton Harbor, Michigan. She was proceeded in death by both of her parents and her five siblings, Arthur, Hellen, Jean, Jane and Donald.
In 1958 Alice graduated from South Haven High School. After graduation she went on to be a dental assistant at a local dental office. 
On June 2nd, 1962 she married the love of her life, James (Jim) Keeny, also of South Haven. Jim and Alice built a wonderful life in South Haven Michigan where they lived till July of 2018. Alice was a devoted wife and mother, her time revolved around caring for her family. She always made sure she was at every ball game, choir concert, wrestling match and band concert for each one of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Sometimes traveling hundreds of miles to sit in the stands. Alice was her family's biggest cheerleader. 
She leaves to cherish her memory: her husband Jim and their three children, Tracey Keeny (David Hester), Lori German (Bob German), Scott Keeny (Margaret Browne). Along with her seven grandchildren, Matthew, Jaime, Leann, Dustin, Jill, Bradley, John, Sara and 16 great-grandchildren. 

A memorial service will be held in South Haven at later date, time and location to be announced.



Harriett Adell Alfieri

Harriett Adell Alfieri, 90, passed away Oct. 9, 2017 in Kalamazoo, MI. She was born near Grand Junction, CO on April 15, 1927.

There will be a Memorial Celebration to honor Harriett's life on Saturday, July 21, 2018 at 2 p.m., at South Haven Moose Lodge, 1025 E. Wells St., South Haven.





Week of July 8

Dorcas Marie Privett

Dorcas Marie Privett, 88, of Inverness, FL passed away July 2, 2018 at Highland Place in Inverness. She was born in Braggadocio, MO on November 11, 1929 to the late Jesssie W. and Mary (Wilburn) James. Marie was a homemaker and arrived in this area in 1983, coming from Bangor, MI. She attended the First United Methodist Church in Inverness, and enjoyed Bible Study, and participating in Church activities. She also enjoyed sewing, crafts, gardening, loved her 4 children, her grandchildren, as well as loved her dog “Baby Girl”.  Marie was preceded in death by her loving husband of over 50 years, Harry Lloyd Privett in 2000, and one brother, Jessie James, Jr. She is survived by her children, Shirley Dilts and her husband Jackie of South Daytona, FL, Archie E. Privett and his wife Mary of South Haven, MI, Mary Petro and her husband Eric of Albion, MI, and Debbie Chandler and her husband Rich of Inverness; sister Mary Francis Viscuso of Pittsburg, CA; 10 grandchildren, Regina, Heather, Tonya, Stacie, Kara, Rob, Chad, Kathleen, Shannon, and Richard, Jr.; 22 great-grandchildren; and 2 great great-grandchildren. A Celebration of Marie’s Life is scheduled for Saturday, June 7, 10:00 A.M. at the Chas. E. Davis Funeral Home with Crematory, Inverness. The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Marie’s memory to the Diabetes Foundation or the Alzheimer’s Foundation.

Emma Jean Barnett

Emma Jean Barnett, 86, of South Haven, passed away Thursday, July 5, 2018 at the Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo. She was born May 5, 1932 to James and Sarah (Hanks) Burson in Alabama. Emma worked for Camsco Mushroom Company for over twenty years before retiring in 1994. She enjoyed gardening, crocheting, and quilting. She was a member of the Miracle Harvest Church in South Haven.
She is preceded in death along with her parents by children – Chuck Barnett and Kathleen Lawson, and several brothers and sisters.

Emma is survived by her children – Annette (Jim) Kasishke of South Haven, Jack (Kathy) Barnett of St. Petersburg, Florida, and Janette (Brent) Leffel of Birch Run, and sister – Eula of California. 70 grandchildren also survive.
Services may be scheduled at a later date. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.