2017 Obituaries

Week of June 18

Victor “Vic” Consolino

Victor “Vic” Consolino, 60, of South Haven passed away Saturday, June 10, 2017 at the Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo. He was born January 6, 1957 to Joseph and Dorothy Consolino in Chicago, Illinois. Vic married Judy Burrows on April 27, 1984 in South Haven and shared 33 years of marriage. He honorably served his country in the United States Navy. Vic worked in buffing and polishing for South Haven Finishing for 10 years and as a machinist for B&K for 20 years. He loved animals and enjoyed drawing and writing songs. Vic loved the Oldies and Elvis. He also enjoyed sports following the Bears and the Cubs.

He is preceded in death by a daughter – April Consolino.

Vic is survived by his wife – Judy Consolino of South Haven, three daughters – Michelle Yeager of South Haven, Amy Lokers of Bradington, Florida, and Rose (Robert) Mason of South Haven, parents – Joseph (Jane) Consolino and Dorothy (Kenneth) Karaus both of South Haven, siblings – Elizabeth and Joey Consolino both of South Haven, Nicholas Consolino of Otsego, Daniel Karaus of Grand Junction, Rachel (Rick) DuMouchelle of Kalamazoo, and Thomas Consolino of Chicago. Ten grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

A family gathering will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, June 17, 2017 at the Consolino Home, 76345 13th Avenue, 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.

Amorette Henning

Amorette Hennig, 92, of Grand Junction, passed away Friday, June 9, 2017 at the Rose Arbor Hospice Center in Kalamazoo. She was born June 24, 1924 to Eugene and Kathryn (Thompson) Plummer in Chicago, Illinois. Amorette graduated from Harper High School in Chicago with the Class of 1941. She later married Jack R. Hennig on April 22, 1947 in Chicago, Illinois. They shared 50 years of marriage before his passing in 1997. Amorette was an avid reader and worked as a librarian for several years before becoming a Bank Teller for First National Bank. She was an associate member of the Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Haven.

Amorette is survived by her sister – Marilou Waldrom of Chicago, Illinois, and several nieces, nephews, and many dear friends also survive.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 24, 2017 at the Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church with Pastor Travis Wilson officiating. In lieu of flowers, Amorette’s wishes were for you to send flowers to someone who does not normally receive flowers. Contributions may be made in Amorette’s memory to the Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church, 06321 Blue Star Highway, South Haven, Michigan 49090 or Rose Arbor Hospice, 5473 Croyden Avenue, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49009. 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.

Iva Markovich

Iva Markovich, age 65 of Breedsville

passed away Sunday, June 11, 2017 at her home surrounded by family. Iva was born June 17th 1951 in South Bend, Indiana to Walter and Ida Mary Neidlinger and lived the majority of her life in the Breedsville area. Iva loved spending time with her family, sewing, crocheting, watching her son play softball, and going with her daughter to Jared Knox concerts. She was a mom to all. Iva married Steve Markovich October 10, 1970.

Surviving are her children, Kathy (Gabe) Sparks of Bangor, Steve (Dawn) Markovich, Jr. of Breedsville; 5 grandchildren, Sierra (Shaun) Daily, Brandon (Amanda McDonald) Markovich, Stefanie (Bobby) McCaig, Jr., Eric (Breanna Hecht) Markovich, and Hunter Markovich; 7 great grandchildren, Ayden Daily, Madison McCaig, Stefan McCaig, Chandler Markovich, Josephine McCaig, Shelbi Markovich, and Taylor Markovich; 1 brother, Herb (Margurite) Neidlinger; and 1 sister, Linda (Frank) Abraham; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; great grandson, Derek Markovich-Hosier; 2 brothers, James Marks and Charles Marks; 1 sister, Alice Sisk; and 2 dogs, Chevy and Killer. The family met friends 11 AM until 1 PM Friday, June 16, 2017 at the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home,  where the funeral service was held at 1 PM. Interment followed in Breedsville Cemetery, Columbia Township. The family suggests memorials be made to the National Kidney Foundation. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.



Abram L. Guiterrez

Abram L. Gutierrez, age 43

of Bangor, passed away Sunday, June 11, 2017 at Bronson Lakeview Hospital.  Abram was born September 11, 1973 in Chicago the son of Juan and Maria Valdez and had lived in the Bangor area the past 25 years.  Abram honorably served his country as a member of the US Navy working in the communications division.  He was an adventurous man and a man of many talents.  He worked as a videographer for WWMT and operated his own photography business.  He loved his family and especially his children.  He was a kind and loving man who had an infectious laugh and an unforgettable smile.  Surviving are his children, Eliana, Zachariah and Norma Jean Gutierrez; his father Juan; his dad Antonio Valdez; siblings, Lydia (Jerry) Daniel, Maggie (Kenneth) Wojciechowski, Juan Gutierrez, Anna Gutierrez, Debora Gutierrez, Alma (Abel) Cadet, Erendira (Ricardo) Arriaga, Blanca (Matthew) Zummach, Antonio Valdez Jr., Aaron Valdez, Ruth (Israel) Acklin, Elizabeth Gutierrez, Esteban Gutierrez, Juan Pablo Gutierrez, Pablo Gutierrez, Angel Gutierrez, Martin Escobedo; his best friend brother, Arturo Serratos.  A host of  nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his mother Maria Valdez. The family met friends 2-3 PM Friday, at the Bangor Church of Christ where the funeral service was held 3:00 PM with Pastor Jeremiah Johnson officiating.  Burial will take place Monday at 2:00 PM in Ft. Custer National Cemetery, Agusta, MI.  Arrangements by, Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.  The family suggests memorial contributions be made to either the Diabetes Foundation or the family's go fund me page. 

Lydia Jean (Cloud) McShan

Lydia Jean (Cloud) McShan, 80, of South Haven passed away May 4, 2017 at Hallmark Living skilled nursing facility. She was born April 22, 1937 to Thomas F. Cloud and Icoline Ruth (Merritt) Cloud in Bangor, Michigan. Following the early death of her birth mother, Lydia was raised by her father and stepmother – Anna Belle Cloud, with whom she had a special relationship through her life. Lydia was a faithful musician, playing the organ at her family's church and neighboring churches for over sixty years. She enjoyed serving in her church and spending time with her family and friends.

She is preceded in death along with her parents by husband - David James McShan, brothers –  Fredrick Cloud and Samuel Cloud.

Lydia is survived by her daughter – Davida McShan of Portage, grand daughters - Shaniqua McShan of Arlington, Virginia and Taylor Anglin of Portage, brother - John Cloud and sister - Cliffie (Cloud) Allen. She also leaves behind a host of cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A grave side service will be held on June 21, 2017, 1:00 PM at the South Haven Cemetery with Pastor Aaron Cobbs 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.

Marion “Bud” J. Tamminga

Marion “Bud” J. Tamminga, age 85, of Fennville, MI formerly of Holland, MI, passed away at home and went to be with the Lord on Sunday, June 11, 2017. He was born in 1932 in Sioux Center, Iowa to William and Cora Tamminga.

Preceding him in death were his parents, wife Henrietta Tamminga, step mother Jessie Tamminga, brothers and sisters Willard (Connie) Tamminga, Clarence (Edna) Tamminga , Juella (Ed) Keller, Ken DeNeff, Beatrice Schutt and Jim Tamminga, in-laws Bernard (Grace) Diekevers and Merle Pluger.

He is survived by his children Beth (Daniel) Pichler, John Tamminga, and Nathan Tamminga; grandchildren Kathryn (Steven) Burmeister and David Pichler; great grandchild Jack Burmeister; brothers and sisters Henry (Joyce) Tamminga, Carla Tamminga, Alice DeNeff, Lillian (Martin) Chrispell, William (Beverly) Tamminga, Karla Tamminga, and Ray (Ann) Schutt; in-laws Wilma Pluger, Hank and Marilyn Diekevers and Don and Leslie Diekevers; many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral and committal services were held on Thursday, June 15, 2017 at 11:00 am at Lakeshore Memorial Services, 11939 James St. in Holland with Rev. Steven Smallegan officiating. Burial was at Lakewood Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Rehoboth Christian School, PO Box 41 Rehoboth, NM 87322. Please visit www.lakeshorememorial.com to leave a message or memory for the family.

Rosemary J. Jackson

Rosemary J. Jackson, age 62, of Bangor, passed away Sunday, June 11th, 2017 at her home.  Rosemary was born March 8, 1955 in Chicago, the daughter of the late Jerry and Helen Welsh and had lived the majority of her life in the Bangor area.  She enjoyed going to the beach, attending concerts, traveling and crafting.  Rosemary loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren who lovingly called her "Gran Jan".  Surviving are her son Mark (Wendy) of Bloomingdale; 7 grandchildren; 6 brothers and 1 sister.  She was preceded in death by her son Zak Jackson.  Following her wishes cremation has taken place.  A memorial service will take place at a later date.  Arrangements by, Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.



Ella May Hester

Ella May Hester, 87, of South Haven, passed away Wednesday, June 14, 2017 at her home under Hospice care. She was born May 14, 1930 to Earl and Minnie (Hoyt) Sanders in Oswego, New York. Ella worked for the City of South Haven for many years in the Parks Department before her eventual retirement.

She is preceded in death along with her parents by her husband of 63 years, Harold Hester, daughter – Linda Vining, and one grandson.

Ella is survived by her son – George Hester of Florida, grandchildren – Heather Penrod of St. Petersburg, Florida, Heidi Cuticchia of Hamilton, Ohio, William Vining of South Haven and Frank “Joe” Lind, Jr. of South Haven, siblings – Bob, Don, Jane, and Joan, eight great grandchildren – Samantha, Revecca, Amanda, Dalton, Nathan, Zackary, Aaron, and Kaitlyn, and two great-great grandchildren – Everett and Rowen.

Family services will be held 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 of South Haven, 637-0333.



Week of June 11

Beverly Jean Wyhowski

Beverly Jean Wyhowski, 86, of South Haven, passed away Friday, June 2, 2017 at the Bronson Hospital in South Haven. She was born November 17, 1930 to Herbert and Elsie (Disterheft) First in Dowagiac, Michigan. Beverly was a member of St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Haven. Beverly volunteered as a 4-H Cooking Leader. She loved spending time in her flower garden. Beverly also helped with the placement of foreign exchange students in local homes.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Leroy Wyhowski and her parents.

Beverly is survived by her children - Cheryl Overholser of South Haven, Carol (Tony) Hensley of Goshen, Indiana and Shirley (Jason) Denbow of South Haven. Eight grandchildren – Nathan, Alex and Jessica Overholser. Matthew Connors and Nicholas Hensley. Justin, Jordan and Cameron Denbow. Six step children also survive. Brothers – Harold (Karen) First and Dale (Mary) First both of Sister Lakes, and sister - Donna (Carl) Filbrandt of South Haven.

Visitation will be held from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM on Thursday, June 8, 2017 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in South Haven. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 PM at the church with Pastor Stephen Dailey officiating. Beverly will be laid to rest in Chambers Cemetery in Geneva Township. Memorials may be made in Beverly’s memory to St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church, 718 Arbor Ct., 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.

Arthur E. Andrews

Arthur E. Andrews, 98, of South Haven, passed away Sunday, June 4, 2017 at the Bronson Hospital in South Haven. He was born May 21, 1919 to Albert and Burma (Burton) Andrews in Covert, Michigan. Arthur served his country in the United States Navy during World War II aboard the Ticonderoga as an Aviation Ordnanceman First Class. He married Margaret Smith on October 13, 1947 and shared 62 years of marriage before her passing in 2009. Arthur worked for Everett Piano Company until his retirement in 1983. A life-long learner, Arthur frequently had a book in hand. He loved photography, gardening, chemistry, music, woodworking, and was especially handy with electronics. Arthur was also an avid Tigers fan.

He is preceded in death along with his parents and wife by a son – Gerald Andrews and sister – Marian Wolf.

Arthur is survived by his children – Veronica (Rich) Anderson of New Harmony, Indiana, Diane (Marc) Brinks, Susan (Mark) Hadaway, and Mary (Don) Frazier all of South Haven. Grandchildren Angie Cipolla, Matt (Kim) Anderson, Amanda (Mike) Price, Michael Brinks, Lucas Hadaway, Kate Hadaway, Teagan Frazier, Jacob Frazier, Jennifer (Gary) Gill and six great grandchildren also survive.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Thursday, June 8, 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Military honors will be held at 5:00 PM at the funeral home. Contributions may be made in Arthur’s memory to the Historical Association of South Haven, 355 Hubbard 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 of South Haven, 637-0333.



Robert “Mark” Hill

Robert “Mark” Hill, 58, of Glenn, passed away Wednesday, May 24, 2017 at his home. He was born on March 12, 1959 to Robert and JoAnn Hill in South Haven, Michigan. He grew up in Grand Junction and attended Bloomingdale Public Schools. On November 21, 1998, Mark married Chris (Rayburn) at St. Paul Lutheran Church in South Haven. Mark worked as a shipping clerk for Dr. Pepper/7 Up/Snapple in Holland for the past 20 years. He , and his wife, were owners of Farm House Glenn Antiques where he used his creative abilities and workmanship, which he enjoyed exhibiting at antique shows. He enjoyed spending time with his family and traveling. Mark also enjoyed working in stained glass, loved music especially Beatles music, playing the acoustical guitar and the bass guitar, and attending music concerts. Mark also enjoyed nature and being in the out of doors. Mark loved animals and spoiled his pet cats and cherished the time he had with his dog, Missy.

He is preceded in death by his mother and step father, JoAnn and Carl Bumpus. His grand parents – Vernon and Althea Hill and his beloved Aunt Bet.

Mark is survived by his wife of 18 years, Chris, his daughters - Jamie (William) Vieau of Hudsonville and Lyndsey (Cal) Bennett of South Haven, son, Tyler Smith of St. Joseph, Michigan, two grandchildren – Kylee and Makenna, father – Robert (Audra) Hill of Grand Junction and sister - Rhonda (Vic Ide) Fiorillo of Gobles. His aunt – Dorothy Cutshaw of Constanine, Michigan. In laws – R.T. and Audrey Rayburn of Lacota.

Funeral Services will be held at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven on Tuesday, May 30, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. with Pastor Jerry Koller officiating. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the family. 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.

Lynn (Brinks) Mischke

Lynn M. Mischke, 52, died on Sunday June 4. She was born on August 9, 1964, the daughter of Stephen Brinks and Dian (Wood) Brinks. Lynn received her elementary education at St. Paul Lutheran School and graduated from South Haven High School in 1982. Pursuing a career in computer programming, she graduated from DeVry University of Dallas, Texas, in 1985, and worked in her field both in Buchanan, Michigan, and Louisville, Kentucky.

On August 31, 1991, Lynn was united in marriage to Pastor Steven Mischke, at Louisville, Kentucky. She enjoyed being a mother and homemaker as well as a volunteer in her church. She supported the ministry of her husband at Hope Lutheran Church, Louisville, Kentucky and at Peace Lutheran Church and School, Granger, Indiana.

Preceded in death by her mother Dian Haase, and stepfather Walter Haase, Lynn is survived by her husband Steven of Granger, Indiana, daughters Rachel of West Allis, Wisconsin, and Natalie at home. Lynn is also survived by her brother, Rodney Brinks of South Haven, and her father Steve (Kathy) Brinks of Stevensville.

Funeral Service will be Saturday, June 10, at Peace Lutheran Church, 16791 Cleveland Road, Granger, Indiana, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. and service at 12:00 p.m. A private burial service will take place later in St. John’s Cemetery, Juneau, Wisconsin.

Joseph Monroe Budd

Joseph Monroe Budd, 76, of Grand Rapids, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 7, 2017. Joseph was born December 23, 1940 in Jackson, MI to Ogle and Alfreda Budd. He graduated from Stockbridge High School in 1959 and enlisted in the Army in 1966. While stationed in Hokkaido, Japan, he met and married his wife of 45 years, Noriko. Joseph raised his family in Covert, MI and retired from Consumers Energy/Palisades. He was funny, friendly, and hard-working, a loving husband and father. He loved listening to the Grand Ole Opry, playing the guitar, and riding his motorcycle. Joseph is preceded in death by his parents, wife, and brother William Budd. Joseph will be lovingly remembered by daughter Susannah (Donald) Tuuri of Ada, son Jason Budd of Potterville, grandchildren Julia, Joseph, and Abigail Tuuri and Avery Budd, brother Jerry Budd of Rives Junction, sister Betty (Gene) Ulrey of Leslie, sisters-in-law Kathleen Budd of Wylie TX and Ayako Inzerillo of Chester PA. Visitation will be held on Monday, June 12, 10-11am with a memorial service at 11am at Calvary Church, 707 E. Beltline NE, Grand Rapids, MI, Pastor Dane Bjork officiating. Interment at Hillcrest Memorial Park Cemetery in Jackson, MI. Contributions in memory of Joseph may be made to the Resident Assistance Fund at Emerald Meadows of Cascade. Arrangements by Memorial Alternatives, Grand Rapids.



Week of June 4

Leona M. Remington

Leona M. Remington age 99, of Bloomingdale passed away Wednesday, May 24, 2017, at Meadow Woods Nursing Home in Bloomingdale.  Leona was born October 28, 1917 in St. Joseph, the daughter of Julius and Mariea (Winkel) Greiffendorf and lived the majority of her life in the Bloomingdale, South Haven area. She was a member of the Eastern Star and Bloomingdale Christian Church. She always had a big flower garden, did lots of canning, freezing of vegetables and fruit, and enjoyed drawing. She loved spending time with her family. Surviving are her 4 children, Sharon (Rudy) Sauer of Bloomingdale, Bob (Kathie Miller) Remington of Bloomingdale, Gerald (Lucy) Remington of Bloomingdale, Sally Blink of Gobles; 14 grandchildren; 28 great grandchildren; 5 great great grandchildren; a sister, Nancy (Bill) Banks of Greenville; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph in 1969; daughter-in-law, Marilyn Remington; son-in-law, John Blink; 2 sisters, Jane Woodhouse, Ruth Reuschel; and 3 brothers, Walter, Julius and Alvin Greiffendorf. The family will meet friends 10-12 noon Friday, June 9, 2017 at the Bloomingdale Christian Church where the funeral service will be 12:00 Noon with Tim Remington officiating. Interment will follow in Baseline Cemetery, Cheshire Township. The family suggests memorials be made to Hospice of SW Michigan or to the Bloomingdale Christian Church. Arrangements were entrusted to the Bloomingdale Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

William “Pat” Oliver

William “Pat” Oliver of South Haven 61, died Saturday, May 27, 2017 at the Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph. He was born March 17, 1956 in Millburg, Michigan to John and June (Smith) Oliver. Pat served his country in the US Marine Corps during Veitnam. He married Debbie Henley on July 7, 1975 in Benton Harbor. They were married for nearly 42 years. Pat loved spending time with his grand children and his dog, Gigi. He enjoyed fishing and was always visiting with one of his friends.

He is preceded in death along with his parents and a sister, Lorna Leverton Howell.

He is survived by his wife – Debbie Oliver. Sons – Willie (Jennifer) Oliver of Covert, Joey Oliver and Justin Oliver both of South Haven. Eight grand children – Kurtis, Ethan, Lincoln, Reese, Alexiss, Austin, Cheyanna and Destinie. Brother – Johnny (Sherry) Oliver of Covert. Sister – Vicky (Leonard) Dean of Jackson, Mississippi.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 1, from 2 to 4 PM at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home. Veterans Honors will be presented at 4:00 PM 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.

Charles Lee Cope

Charles Lee Cope of Glenn, Michigan 74, died Saturday, May 27, 2017 at his home. He was born May 9, 1943 in Leachville , Arkansas to Cecil “Jack” Cope and Imogene Maddron. Charles was a metallurgist at National Motors, Bohn Aluminum and Hayworth which he retire from in 2008. Charles enjoyed watching sports on television. He was a Detroit Lions fan. In his younger years he enjoyed fishing and golfing.

He is preceded in death along with his parents and brothers – Wayne and Douglas Cope.

He is survived by his sons – David Cope of Glenn and Tim Cope of Holland. Two grand children. Brother – Edward (Gaye) Cope of Huntsville, Alabama. Sisters – Sharon Parrett and Brenda (Joe) Rigozzi both of South Haven and Laverle Sager of Kalamazoo. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 3, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow the visitation at 11:00 AM at the funeral home. Charles will be laid to rest at Chambers 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 of South Haven, 637-0333.



Sadie Bell Drake

Sadie Bell Drake of South Haven 87, died Saturday, May 27, 2017 surrounded by her family at Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community. She was born March 31, 1930 in Ganges, Michigan to Mina (Wilges) and Mont Conner. Sadie graduated from South Haven High School Class of 1949. Sadie worked at the Secretary of States licensing bureau in South Haven where she retired after many years of service. She liked to read and play with her grand children.

She is preceded in death along with her parents by a daughter – Denise Drake and brothers – Donald Conner and Franklin Conner.

She is survived by her son – Ron (Karen) Drake of South Haven. Daughter – Monica Drake of South Haven. Two grand children – Rachel (Steve) Burson and Vincent (Kathleen) Lira. Four great grand children – Lily Ring, Nathan Lira, Kaelynn Lira and Jordan Burson. Brother – Willis (Jean) Conner of South Haven.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 31, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home. Graveside services will take place on Thursday, June 1, at 11:00 AM at Plummerville Cemetery. Sadie will be laid to rest at Plummerville Cemetery in Ganges 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.



Week of May 28

Donald Eugene Sinkler

Donald Eugene Sinkler, 79, of Hartford, went to be with his Lord and Savior Friday, May 19, 2017 at his home under Hospice care. He was born July 25, 1937 to Murray and Thelma (Warren) Sinkler in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Donald honorably served his country in the United States Army. He worked as a machinist for Buck Chuck in Kalamazoo for 34 years before his retirement. He was a member of the American Legion Post # 362 in Coloma and the Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Haven.

Donald is preceded in death along with his parents by his granddaughter – Melissa Dill, brother – Robert Sinkler, sisters – Connie Sinkler, Dolly Falls, Beverly Starr, and two son-in-laws – Jeffrey Ver Sluis and Mark Nehmer.

Donald is survived by his children – Sharon Sinkler of Hartford, Ronald Sinkler of Hartford, Barbara Ver Sluis of Plainwell, Cheryl (Jeremy) Matney of Hooppole, Illinois, and Michael (Jennifer) Sinkler of Lawrence, sister – Linda Jones-Newnum, brother – Terry Sinkler, eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren. He is also survived by his former wife of 45 years, Anna Sinkler, who he remained friends with.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Thursday, May 25, 2017 at the Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Haven. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 AM at the church with Pastor Travis Wilson officiating. Donald will be laid to rest at the Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church Memorial Garden. Memorial contributions can be made to Caring Circle Hospice, 05055 Blue Star Hwy. South Haven, MI 49090 or to the American Legion Post #362, 351 E. St. Joseph St. Coloma, MI 49038. 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.

Olga Verna Lewis

Olga Verna Lewis, 85, of South Haven, passed away Friday, May 19, 2017 at the Bronson Hospital in South Haven. She was born March 9, 1932 to William and Bertha  Pristupa in Detroit, Michigan. Olga graduated from Yale High School with the Class of 1949. She continued her education at Michigan State University where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Education. She taught for South Haven Public Schools for 38 years before retiring in 1979. Olga married Dale Lewis on June 23, 1956 in Ionia, Michigan. Olga enjoyed baking, sewing, crafting and golfing. She was a member of the Garden Club and a supporter of the Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum and WeCare INC. She was a member of the Hope Reformed Church in South Haven.

She is preceded in death along with her parents by her brother – William “Bill” Pristupa.

Olga is survived by her husband of 60 years, Dale Lewis of South Haven, children, four sons, Dennis, Jeff (Lita), and Bryan (Carol) of South Haven, and Ken (Nichole) Lewis of Grandville, Michigan, seven grandchildren – Jaime Lewis Furguson, Samantha, Benjamin, Timothy, Andrew, Katelyn, and Cameron Lewis, and one great grandson – J.P. Ferguson.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Tuesday, May 23, 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, May 24, 2017 at the Hope Reformed Church in South Haven. Olga will be laid to rest in Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven. Contributions may be made in Olga’s memory to the Hope Reformed Church, 1365 Monroe Boulevard, 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.

Amy L. Putnam

Amy L. Putnam of Grand Rapids, Michigan, age 81, passed away on Friday, March 31, 2017.  She was born to Earl and Ethel (Martin) Merlau on June 23, 1935, in South Haven, Michigan.  Amy married Leonard Putnam in 1968 and was married to him for over 30 years.  She served as a pastor’s wife, a teacher, and a missionary at Red Bird Mission in Kentucky.  Amy loved to sew for herself and others.  She also enjoyed painting.  Amy is survived by her brother Martin (Ardith) Merlau; brother in law Richard Barden; 5 nieces and nephews including her special niece Kristin Amy (Greg) Rorrer; step children Ann (Henry) Tschetter, Sally (Dennis) Wigent, Karen (Scott) Singer, Martha (Lenny) Yakaboski, and Dan (Karen) Putnam; and several step grandchildren.  Amy was preceded in death by her husband Leonard Putnam, sister Mary Barden, and step son David Putnam.  The family would like to thank both the Clark Retirement Community staff and Emmanuel Hospice staff for their care and compassion.  Amy’s life was remembered with a visitation on Tuesday, April 4, 2017 at Pederson Funeral Home in Rockford, MI, and a service Wednesday, April 5, 2017, at Clark Retirement Community Chapel in Grand Rapids.  Pastor Bruce Wilson presided at this service.  An interment of ashes service took place at the Casco United Methodist Church Memorial Garden on April 23, 2017, with Rev. Don Graham and Rev. Harold Filbrandt presiding.  Those wishing to offer expressions of sympathy are encouraged to make a memorial contribution to Clark Retirement Community 1551 Franklin St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506 or Emmanuel Hospice 2161 Leonard St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504.  www.pedersonfuneralhome.com.

Donald M. Kozel

Donald M. Kozel, age 66, of Bangor, passed away Thursday, May 18, 2017 at his home. Don was born March 16, 1951 in South Haven the son of Victor and Constance (Smith) Kozel and has lived all of his life in the Bangor area. He served with the US Army from 1970-1972. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, ice fishing, hunting, trapping, riding his motorcycle, and driving his grandkids around on the tractor and UTV. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Don was a meat cutter at Hardings Market in Bangor for many years until he opened his own meat cutting business at his home. Surviving are his wife, Laurie whom he married Feb. 15, 1975; 2 children, Matt (Renee) Kozel of Paw Paw; Megan (Jamie Little) Kozel of Bangor; 6 grandchildren, Devon, Dylan, Cameron, Jaelynn, Emma, Jocelynn; 3 sisters, Vicky (Paul) Busch of Orlando, FL, his twin sister, Donna (Mike) Wilkinson of Bangor; Debbie (Jack) Titman of Bangor; many nieces and nephews and his dog Peek a boo. He was preceded in death by his 2 brothers, Mike and Tom Kozel.

Services were held May 22, 2017 at the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home. According to his wishes cremation has taken place and burial of cremains will be at a later date at Arlington Hill Cemetery, Bangor, MI. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.





Jesse L. Joines, Jr.

Jesse L. Joines, Jr., age 63 of Paw Paw, passed away Friday, May 19, 2017 at Bronson Hospital, Kalamazoo, MI. Jesse was born September 4, 1953 in East St. Louis, Illinois the son of Jesse and Lora (Hamilton) Joines, Sr. and has lived in the Paw Paw area since 1963. He was an over the road driver for Green Way, and Van Eerden's. He enjoyed working on cars and rebuilding engines. He loved his children and showed it in many different ways. He enjoyed spending time with Gilbert and Cristina his neighbors and especially loved their Mexican cooking. Surviving are his 2 children, Robert Joines of Paw Paw, Lora (Pat) Knapp II of Pullman; 5 grandchildren, Robert, Cassandra, Samantha Joines, Patrick, Jesse Knapp; mother, Lora Stanislawski; 2 brothers, Leslie Joines of Paw Paw, Robert Gregory Joines of Allegan; and other family and friends. The funeral service was held May 24, 2017 at the Bangor Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home. Interment followed in Breedsville Cemetery, Columbia Township. The family suggests memorials be made to the American Heart Association or American Cancer Society. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

David William Paull

David Paull died peacefully on May 21, 2017 with his wife, Grace Paull, and their dog, Jade at his side. Dave was at South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation where he was receiving care for complications from heart disease and diabetes. The nursing and therapy staff had become members of his extended family.

David was born in Columbus, Ohio on September 5, 1947 where he was adopted by Frank and Marjorie Paull. Frank was a civil service employee and Marjorie was an elementary school teacher. The Paull family lived in 22 different places around the country by the time David graduated from Northern Michigan University in 1967.

David married Grace M. Wank on August 20, 1970 in Garden City, MI. They came to South Haven in time to start the 1970-71 school year where David began his 31 year teaching career at Central Middle School.

Dave's son, Michael David Paull (b. 1979,) and daughter, Kate Marjorie Paull (b. 1984,) joined the household and grew up in South Haven, between the Black River and the Lake Michigan Beaches. They have since been joined by their partners, Katy Paull (nee Schepers) and Justin Mix, and their children, Hazel Grace Paull (b. 2013) and Jude Mix (b. 2015.)

Dave loved his family, his dogs, his home, and his adopted hometown, the City of South Haven.

A memorial will be held Friday, June 2, 2017 from 2-4 p.m. At South Haven City Hall, City Council Chambers, 539 Phoenix St., South Haven.

Addie Clarke

Addie Clarke was born on November 1, 1945 in New Orleans, Louisiana to the late Henry Malone and Rosella Banks.

Addie was educated in the Van Buren County School System. After graduation, Addie met and married the late Henderson (Homer) Clarke. They were young, but loved each other deeply. They later joined Trinity Baptist Church under the pastoral care of the late Reverend Sanders. Addie was as a devoted choir member and served on many committees within the church.

Addie’s first job was at South Haven Coil where she labored each day as an Operator for several years. She later discovered her passion for cooking and began her new career as the Head Cook at Countryside Nursing Home & Rehabilitation Center in South Haven where she worked for over 20 years.

Addie truly enjoyed spending time with her friends and family, especially, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She love to have fun….she enjoyed entertaining her friends, selling AVON, playing cards, and of course BINGO! She was the “life” of the party from her jokes and her laughter. Due to personal health concerns, she relocated to Cocoa, Florida to live with her daughter Angela. She remained there until her death.

Preceding Addie in death is her Father Henry Malone, Mother Rosella Banks, Husband Henderson (Homer) Clarke and
Grandchild Niquitia L. Merritt.

Addie’s sunset was on May 17, 2017. Her memories will be cherished and always remembered by her sons, Pernell Clarke (Naomi) of Nashville, Tennessee, Victor Sylvester Clarke of Nashville, Tennessee and Ronald Joseph Clarke of Benton
Harbor, Michigan her daughters, Debby Ann Merritt (Mike) of Benton Harbor, Michigan and Angela “Poo” Clarke (Mike) of
Cocoa, Florida her grandchildren, Mequesha, Fred Jr., Samantha, Angela, Victor Jr., Victoria, Kendall, Chastity, Chaniya, Chaylin, Cameron, Daeja, Isaiah and 16 great-grandchildren, one
great-great grandson and friends—Bobby King, Bobby Sanders, Joyce Ann Bailey, Mert Prewitt, Mildred Henry, and Brenda
Foster.

 Wake was held from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Saturday, May 27, 2017 at the Trinity Baptist Church in South Haven. Funeral services followed wake at 12:00 PM at the church with Pastor Andre Love 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.



Pearl J. Hennig

Pearl J. Hennig, age 96 of Bangor, passed away Wednesday, May 24, 2017 at her home. Pearl "Ma" was born December 18, 1920 in Chicago, IL, the daughter of Philip and Helen (Sarazinski) Wagner and has lived in the Bangor area the majority of her life. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church. Surviving are her 3 children, Susan (Ernest) Kappel of Marcellus, MI, Robin (Keith) Mock of Bangor, Timothy (Candy) Hennig of Chesapeake, VA; 2 daughter-in-laws, Anita Hennig of South Haven, Marjorie Hennig of Seymour, IN; 21 grandchildren; 35 great grandchildren; 7 great great grandchildren; 2 sister-in-laws, Amorette Hennig of Grand Junction, Gladys Hennig of Bedford, TX; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Herman in 1999; and 2 sons, Rev. Richard Hennig, and James Hennig. The family will meet friends Tuesday, May 30, 2017, from 11 AM until 12 Noon at Trinity Lutheran Church, 115 E. Monroe St. (M-43); Bangor,  where the funeral service will be 12:00 Noon with Rev. Matthew Reis officiating. Interment will follow in Hoppin Cemetery, Arlington Township. The Family suggests memorials be made to Trinity Lutheran Church. Arrangements entrusted to the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home.

Carter Antony

Carter Antony, 67, of Gobles, Michigan passed away suddenly on May 6th, 2017 while at home. He was born in Chicago, Illinois to Floyd and Kay Antony. Carter was married to Sharon Wrzesinski in 1969 and moved to a farm in Grand Junction, Michigan, where they had two sons: David C. Antony, and Paul A. Antony, MD (Wife – Akgul Akpinarli). He is survived by his brother, Mark Antony (Wife - Jackie Antony); granddaughter, Justine Nickel; grandson, Can Akpinarli-Antony; two great-grandsons, Calix Benjamin Morgan and Sage Cygnus Morgan; niece, Erica Antony; and many cousins, including Christina Levering (Husband - John Levering), and numerous friends and relatives. He is preceded in death by Floyd and Kay Antony his parents; Asher Huminksy, sister of his two sons; Earl Norling, a farm hand and friend of the family; and many uncles and aunts.

Carter lived most of his life in Grand Junction and Gobles, Michigan, but spent time in Chicago, managing and maintaining apartment buildings with his mother. Carter worked at Everett Piano Company in South Haven, Michigan for six years as a wood finisher. He also was self-employed for many years as a Certified Auto Mechanic and a Personal Home Health Aide. Before retiring, he worked as a laboratory technician in Plainwell, Michigan.

Carter was a passionate, eclectic, and private individual who enjoyed motorcycles, music, chemistry, reading, gardening, working on cars, collecting, and vintage automobiles. Early in life, he enjoyed the Beatles, collecting Peter Max art, and driving his white El Camino and Harley Davidson motorcycle around the country roads of Michigan. In his middle years, he settled in Gobles, Michigan and took care of his mother. Later in life, he enjoyed his classic 1950’s Buick and adding to his many collections. Carter also had a passion for learning and put himself through school, receiving an Associates Degree in Chemistry from Kalamazoo Valley Community College (KVCC), where he was on the Dean’s List, and was part of the National Honor Society. At KVCC, he had a perfect attendance. He will be deeply missed.

Arrangements by the Bloomindale Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com. Carter was cremated, which was in accordance with his philosophy in life. There will be a memorial service in September 2017, which will be announced on the D.L. Miller website. In lieu of flowers, the family asks to please post memories on the website or send condolences to cartermemorial@icloud.comPlease contact cartermemorial@icloud.com, if you need more information. 

Vixi, et, quem dederat cursum Fortuna, peregi - Virgil, The Aeneid, Book IV, Line 642.

I have lived and completed the course that Fortune has given.

Week of May 21

Frances L. Wolff

Frances Lucille Wolff, age 87, died Friday, May 12, 2017 at her residence in Goldsboro, NC. Born in South Haven, MI, she was the daughter of the late Albert Carl Labz and Edith Smith Labz, wife of the late Donald Wolff and mother of the late Douglas Wolff. Frances attended The Bridge Church and was an avid bowler. At the age of 69, she defeated her two oldest sons in bowling in what would be their last match. She attended Elvis' last live concert and was a world traveler. She traveled through Europe, Greece, Turkey, Mexico, Canada, most of the United States, and most recently visited Kenya at the age of 86.

According to her wishes, a celebration of life cookout was held Sunday, May 14 in Goldsboro. Burial with her husband will be held at a later date in Lake View Cemetery in South Haven.

Frances is survived by her children, David Wolff and wife, Diane, Connie Tinder and husband, Jim, and Paul Wolff; her daughter in law, Cathie Wolff, grandchildren, J.R. Tinder and wife, Ashley, Stephanie Ward and husband, Jon, James Thornton and wife Raigan, Tyson Wolff, and Stephen Wolff, great grandchildren, Benjamin, Mason, Rhyder, Renlee, Rheya and Rhoan; and cousins, Gary Smith and Marc Smith.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be directed to St. Joseph's Indian School, P.O. Box 326, Chamberlain, SD 57325-0300.

Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home of Goldsboro is serving the Wolff family, and online condolences may be sent through www.shumate-faulk.com.

Daniel Stephen Mezak

Daniel Stephen Mezak, known by many as “Pops” died peacefully at the Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in South Haven on May 13th at the age of 94.

Dan is survived by his best friend Linda LaRocque; his children, Daniel Jr. (Brenda) and Carol of South Haven, John (Mei) of Houston; his grandchildren Samantha and Kevin of Chicago, Thomas of Seattle, Harrison of Grand Rapids, Katelin of Stevensville, Nanette, John Jr., and Benjamin of Houston; and great grandchildren Evelyn, Samantha and Joseph. He is preceded in death by his parents, Steven and Louise; sister Dorothy and beloved wife Kathryn nee Overton.

Daniel was born on July 23, 1922 in Kalamazoo, MI to Steven Mezak and Louise Marshall. He attended the University Wisconsin where he taught a class on Communications. He married Kathryn, a nurse in 1952. The couple welcomed their daughter and later twin boys into their home. 

Dan began his working career for the Bell Telephone Company of Michigan before entering the Army to serve his country during WWII as a Sergeant in the Communications division. After his marriage to Kathryn, he began working for the S.E. Overton Company where he eventually became Vice President.

Dan was on the South Haven city council for over 30 years stepping up as Mayor Protemp as needed. He was also a member of the South Haven Yacht club for many years. One of his many contributions to the city of South Haven was the creation of the All Seasons Marina with his partner Ray Holden.

Dan was very proud to have raised his family on the lakes of Michigan providing them with an outdoor life of fishing, golfing and water sports. He prided himself on designing and building properties from the ground up with the help of his whole family.

He made a strong impact on anyone who knew him as a dedicated family man, specifically as a lifelong caregiver to his beloved wife of 36 years, Katie. His family and friends remember him as a generous, devoted and witty man who never lost his sense of humor. He encouraged his family to pursue their goals and was proud of every accomplishment no matter how small.

The family would like to thank Linda LaRocque for her friendship and care of Dan for nearly 30 years.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Sunday, May 21, 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. A funeral is scheduled for 11:00 on Monday May 22nd at St. Basil’s Catholic Church, where he was a dedicated member and parish leader. A luncheon will follow in the church’s basement. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Dan’s life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the St. Basil’s Endowment Fund at 94 Superior St. South Haven, MI 49090 or the Brain Injury Association of Michigan at 7305 Grand River Suite 100 Brighton, MI 48114. Condolences can be sent to Carol Mezak 44 Apache 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.

Anna Ruth Smith

Anna Ruth Smith, 87, of Zeeland, MI, passed away Thursday, May 11, 2017 at Providence Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Zeeland, MI. She was born Nov. 11, 1929 in Lacota, MI, to David H. Britt and Anna Laura Orpha Hoag.

Anna was a dedicated career woman at a time when women traditionally stayed at home. She worked for the Bell Telephone Co. and GTE for a total of more than 50 years. She was the last remaining telephone operator in the state of Michigan when phone companies eliminated the position.

She enjoyed painting landscapes, visiting with friends and going to the racetrack with girlfriends, reading the Bible and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She married Norman J. Sisson on Dec. 23, 1948 in Kalamazoo, MI. She married Ernie Smith on Sept. 11, 2002 at the Calvary Baptist Church in South Haven, MI.

She’s survived by three children: Norman W. (Joan) Sisson of Portland, OR, Stephen R. (Cathy) Sisson of Pullman, and Frank O. (Sarah) Sisson of South Haven; four grandchildren: Sabrina Sisson of Grand Rapids, Amanda Sisson of Pullman, Barbara Sisson of Dover, TN and Holly Sisson of Hancock, MI; three great-grandchildren: Stephen M. Sisson of Pullman, and Emma M. Fielding and Robert J. Sears, both of Dover, TN; 7 stepchildren, 24 step-grandchildren, 40 step-great-grandchildren and 1 step-great-great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, David H. Britt, Jr.; first husband, Norman J. Sisson; two infant sons; and her second husband, Ernie Smith.

A remembrance ceremony will be held 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 of South Haven, 637-0333.



Leslie Ingham

Leslie Ingham, 75, of South Haven, passed away May 13, 2017 peacefully at her home under Hospice care. She was born May 17, 1941 to Charles and Gertrude (Dodds) Ingham in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Leslie graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism. She started a career in advertising which spanned the course of twenty years with companies that included Sears, TRW, and Rand McNally. She later embarked on a far reaching, much loved new career in real estate selling properties in Chicago and Briarcliff Manor, New York for over two decades. Having a natural eye for interior design, Leslie loved buildings and architecture. She helped rehabilitate several houses through the years. Leslie married Gary Gross on June 16, 1984 in Chicago, Illinois. She enjoyed traveling and was drawn back to the Jersey Shore where she spent her childhood. Also, a talented artist, Leslie enjoyed painting with oil and water colors.

Leslie is survived by her husband – Gary Gross of South Haven, and siblings – Sheila Alsterda of Chicago and Scott Ingham of San Diego.

A small celebration of life has been held with family and friends. Contributions may be made in Leslie’s memory 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 of South Haven, 637-0333.



Mary Ann Stout

Mary Ann Stout, 64, of South Haven, went home to be with her Lord on Thursday, May 18, 2017. She was born May 30, 1952 to Howard and Mary Arty (Taylor) Welch in Caledonia, Mississippi.
Mary is preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her children – Sherry (Danny) Wright of Benton Harbor, Susan McCoy of Chicago, Illinois, and Troy and Leonard Rodgers both of South Haven, siblings – Glenda Stout, Donnia Howell and Lonnie Welch, and seven grandchildren.

Private family services will be held 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 of South Haven, 637-0333.



 Week of May 14

Brett Hartenbach

Brett Hartenbach, 58, of Sommersworth, New Hampshire, died Saturday, April 15, 2017, of brain cancer. He was born on August 18, 1958 to Charles and Arden (Birbeck) Hartenbach in East Liverpool, Ohio. Brett is survived by his wife, partner in creative crime, and best friend Dawn Boyer of Somersworth; step-grandchildren Mikaela Boyer and Jamison Boyer of Dover, NH; sisters Amy (Steve) Hartenbach Mabbott and Sarah (Jay) Duffy Crago; brothers Mark Hartenbach and Robert Duffy; and stepfather Bob Duffy, all of East Liverpool, OH; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Brett was an immensely talented guitarist and singer/songwriter who spent most of the 1980s living in South Haven. He went on to tour the world accompanying independent artists from small clubs to the Newport Folk Festival to the Hollywood Bowl. Because of his accomplishments in music, Brett was awarded the 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award by his alma mater, Kent State University, where he graduated with a degree in journalism in 1981.

Brett was a kind soul who had a way of bringing out the best in those he touched. He was known for his passion, his playful, sharp wit and quick laugh. The love shown by family and so many friends across the country during the seven years of his illness is testimony to the richness of his life.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, June 3, 2017, at First Parish Federated Church in South Berwick, ME, followed by a celebration-of-life music party at Spring Hill in South Berwick.

View his guest book at http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/seacoastonline.

James G. Jurkaites

James G. Jurkaites, 75, of South Haven, passed away May 8, 2017 at Rose Arbor Hospice residence, Kalamazoo.

He was born in South Bend, Ind., Feb. 27, 1942.

Jim served in the U.S. Navy for 4 years. After the Navy, he worked for General Telephone for almost 30 years.

His favorite hobbies were building wooden, R.C. Model boats, fishing on the “big lake,” and classic cars. He was a former member of the River Bend Boat club and Michigan Steelheaders.

Jim is survived by his wife, Shirley Ann, of 46 years. They married May 8, 1971.

He has one sister of Patricia Karkiewicz, South Bend, Ind.; one brother Frank (Kathy) Jurkaites of South Bend, Ind.; and one son, Joseph (Stacy) Jurkaties of Mishawaka, Ind.; four stepsons, Randal (Linda) Jacob of Thomaston, Ga., Kirby (Beth) Jacob of Lebanon, Ind., Mark (Connie) Jacob of Lafayette, Ind., and Henry Jacob of Reynolds, Ind.; 14 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, friends may make a memorial contribution to the family or Al-Van Humane Society.

Private family graveside services will be held in LaPorte, Ind. at a later date.

Ethel Marie Bronson

Ethel Marie Bronson, 95, of Portage, passed away Sunday, May 7, 2017 in Kalamazoo. She was born March 10, 1922 to James and Ethel (O’Reilly) Ganter in Detroit, Michigan. She married Russell J. Bronson on January 30, 1947 in Detroit and shared 69 years of marriage before his passing in September of 2016.

Ethel is survived by her children - Russell (Kay) Bronson of Portage, Kevin (Sheila) Bronson, and Dennis Bronson, both of Kalamazoo and grandchildren; Russ Bronson, James Bronson, Lindsay Larrabee, Dustin Bronson, Evan Bronson, Aaron Bronson, and brother, Carl Ganter of Denver, Colorado. She is also survived by five great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Friday, May 12, 2017 at the St. Catherine of Siena Church, Portage, Michigan. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 4:00 PM at the church. Ethel will be laid to rest in Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven, Michigan. Contributions may be made in Ethel’s memory to Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes, 901 Portage Street, 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.

Curtis Reed Parker, Jr.

Curtis Reed Parker, Jr, was born March 7, 1928 in Bloomington, Illinois and grew up in South Haven, Michigan. Passed away May 11, 2017 in Glenview, Illinois. He was the cherished son of Curtis Reed Parker Sr. and Virginia Ogan Parker.  He met the love of his life, Catherine Harriet Westphal and they were married in France on October 4, 1953.  They were married for 55 years.  They were longtime residents of Northfield and Glenview where they raised their family.  He was the loving father of Mark (Dolores) Parker of Cody, WY, David (Sandy) Parker of Omaha, NE and Mary (Rome) Yount of Bloomington, IL; proud grandfather of Alexia Parker and Judi (Sheldon) Leong, Jason (Brienn) Parker, Andrew (Breanne) Parker, Brian (Brooke) Yount, Sarah, Curtis and Tish Yount; great grandfather of Jackson Reed Leong and Charles David Yount; dear brother of Ginnie Boucher; fond uncle of 2 nieces and 1 nephew.  He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and niece, Julie Boucher. 

Mr. Parker was a graduate of Dartmouth where he graduated Phi Beta Kappa and also received his MBA.  He received his JD from Chicago Kent University. He also has an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Illinois College.  He was a US Army veteran serving as a translator during the Korean War in Fontainebleau, France.   Mr. Parker started work at the Harris Bank and then as a Financial Analyst for Duff & Phelps, Chicago.  He was active with many organizations including being a Chartered Financial Analyst, a member emeritus of the Board of Trustees for Illinois College, a board member for the Bright Futures Foundation and a longtime member of Northfield Community Church where he was also in the choir.  He generously thought of others.  His faith and his family were most important.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Memorial Service will be held Monday, May 15 at 3pm at Northfield Community Church, 400 Wagner Rd., Northfield, IL. Interment private. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the First Congregational Church, 651 Phoenix St. South Haven, MI 49090 or Michigan Maritime Museum, 260 Dyckman Ave. South Haven, MI 49090. Funeral information 847-998-1020.

Week of May 7

Donald Ross Woodhams

Donald Ross Woodhams, 89, of South Haven, passed away Monday, May 1, 2017 at the River Ridge Retirement Community in South Haven. He was born September 24, 1927 to Irving T and Cora (Lammon) Woodhams in Kalamazoo. Don grew up on the Austin Lake Airport, and was a natural with stick and rudder. He loved flying, cars, Florida, and his family. As a certified flight instructor he taught many to fly including his future wife Dormah Gingery. He married Dormah on June 13, 1948 at the First Methodist Church in Kalamazoo. He was later hired by one of his students as a salesperson at a Kaiser automobile dealership in Vicksburg, MI. This became the Ford Mercury Dealership. Donald opened his own Ford Mercury dealership in South Haven in 1972, adding Lincoln in 1980, and retired in 1991. Going back to aviation, he created Great Lakes Aircraft Sales in South Haven as a retirement hobby, and developed an antique car enthusiast “car condo”, in Naples FL. He was an avid aviation enthusiast, instrumental in improving the South Haven Airport, a national senior judge in the Antique Automobile Club of America, a Mason, a member of the South Haven Rotary Club, and the First United Methodist Church in South Haven. Don loved and supported his community and his Country.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his step mother, Dorothy, and by four siblings – Ted (Betty) Woodhams, June (Chuck) Rybnikar, Hazel (Bill) Davis, and Sharon (John)Thomasma.

Donald is survived by his wife and best friend of nearly 69 years, Dormah Woodhams of South Haven, children – Ross (Debbie) and Mark (Michele) Woodhams both of South Haven, grandchildren – Haley, Anna, Jonathon (Katie), and Christopher, and great grandchildren – Rhonin and Roy.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Friday, May 5 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 6, 2017 at the First United Methodist Church of South Haven with Pastor Virginia Heller officiating. Donald will be laid to rest at Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Donald’s memory to South Haven Airport Project Fund and the University of Michigan Alzheimer’s Center. 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.



Barothy (Abernathy) Pickett

Barothy (Abernathy) Pickett, age 98 of Bangor, passed away and ascended to meet her Heavenly Father April 26, 2017, at the South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Community, which has always been her goal.

Barothy was born March 3, 1919 the daughter of Eli and Ada (Hogmire) Abernathy. She was an active member of the Senior Center, worked at the A&P Store in South Haven for over 30 years and was a long time member of the ARC. She loved to play bingo and was loved by all whom met her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William Pickett, Nov. 22, 1996; 3 sisters and one brother. She is survived 2 nephews, Virgil and Jack Thornton.

A special thank you goes out to neighbors Kirby and Leanna Rice for the many years she lived with them and then the daily care, love and devotion they gave Barothy by continuous selfless care when she moved to the nursing home.

The family greeted friends 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM Monday, May 1, 2017 at the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home where the funeral service will followed at 1:00 PM. Interment followed in Arlington Hill Cemetery, Bangor, MI. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

Charles “Chuck” Hutson, Jr.

Charles “Chuck” Hutson, Jr., 71, of South Haven, passed away Thursday, April 27, 2017 peacefully at his home under Hospice care. He was born December 13, 1945 to Charles and Delores (Belic) Hutson in Anthony, Kansas. He earned his bachelor’s degree in education from Central Michigan University. Chuck’s teaching career spanned 36 years teaching U.S. government and math, 21 of those years teaching at South Haven High School where he coached boys and girls basketball, baseball, and boys and girls golf before retiring in 2006. Chuck also coached football while teaching in Muskegon. He married Mary Ann Szubinski on May 29, 1981 at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Spring Lake. Chuck was an avid golfer and a member of the St. Basil Catholic Church.

He is preceded in death by his parents and sister – Patricia Kiefer.

Chuck is survived by his wife – Mary Ann Hutson of South Haven, children – David (Bobbi) Hutson of Kalamazoo, Megan (Andrew) Buller of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, Alissa (Steven) Chmielewski of Poulsbo, Washington, Aimee Swidorski of Alpharetta, Georgia, and Amanda (Austin) Yelvington of Palm Coast, Florida. Seven grandchildren also survive.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Monday, May 1, 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, May 2, 2017 at the St. Basil Catholic Church in South Haven. Chuck will be laid to rest at Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Chuck’s memory to Caring Circle Hospice at Home, 05055 Blue Star Highway, South Haven, Michigan 49090 or the West Michigan Spina Bifida Association of Michigan, 4823 Turtle Wood Court, Commerce Township, Michigan 48382. 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.



James T. Small

James T. Small, age 72, of South Haven passed away Saturday, April 29, 2017 at South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.  James was born September 13, 1944 in Chicago and had lived in the South Haven area for the past 20 years.  James honorably served his country as a member of the US Army.  He enjoyed fishing, camping and woodworking. 

Surviving is his wife Dianne; 2 sons, James Small Jr and Steve Small; a sister Judith Manuel; 2 step daughters, Suzanne (Ron) Craft and Shannon (Michael) Smith; 7 grandchildren, Christine, Deanna, Dustin, Danielle, Deven, Cody and Gavin; 2 great grandchildren, Emery and Koda; several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, a stepson Bill Johnson. 

Following his wishes cremation has taken place.  A memorial service will take place at a later date.  Arrangements by Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.



Tracy Gail Greenman

Tracy Gail Greenman, 50, of Marshall, Michigan, passed away peacefully Sunday, April 30, 2017 surrounded by loved ones. She was born November 11, 1966 in South Haven, Michigan. She is survived by wife Karen Gremillion of Marshall, Michigan, step-daughter Tabatha (Chris) Nedelkos of Columbus, Ohio, Mother Barbara Konrad of South Haven. Siblings – Timothy Greenman of Battle Creek, Michigan, Ted Greenman of Golden, Colorado, Tristan Greenman of South Haven, Tiffany Greenman of Lansing, Michigan, as well as Mama Kitty, Bailey, Wink, Dino and Bam-Bam.

Tracy was preceded in death by her father, Danny Greenman, step-father Robert Konrad, grandparents Austin and Nellie Drake and Dee and Mary Greenman.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 Am on Friday, May 5, 2017 at Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Haven. Services will begin at 11:00 AM. at the church with Pastor Rod Hill officiating. Memorial services will also take place in Battle Creek on Monday, May 8, at 4:00 PM at the Farley-Estes and Dowdle Funeral Home. Friends wishing to make a memorial contribution may make them to the Humane Society of South Central Michigan, 2500 Watkins Rd., Battle Creek, Michigan or Hospice of Holland, 270 Hoover Blvd., Holland, MI, 49423. 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.

Frances D. Otto

Frances D. Otto, 94, of South Haven, passed away Thursday, November 10, 2016, at the Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community in South Haven. She was born March 3, 1922 to Charles and Harriet (Smith) Polansky in Suffolk, Massachusetts. Frances married Richard “Bud” Otto on May 18, 1942 in South Haven and shared 46 years of marriage until his passing in 1988. Frances worked for Bohn Aluminum as an inspector for 35 years until her retirement in 1983. After her retirement, Frances volunteered at the Warren Center for over 10 years until the age of 90. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and a lifelong member of the VFW.

She is preceded in death by her son – Richard Otto.

Frances is survived by her children – Donald (Bette) Otto of South Haven, Charlan Otto of Belding, Michigan, and Janet Carlson of South Haven, four grandchildren – Michael Strebeck, Bo Strebeck, Christyn Forrest, and Laramie Otto, and nine great grandchildren whom she played with, adored, and loved deeply.

Memorial services will be held Saturday, May 13, 2017 at 2:00 PM at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven with Chaplain Lori Timmer officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Frances’ memory to 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 of South Haven, 637-0333.



Elmer John Huberty

Elmer John Huberty, age 90, of Bloomingdale passed away April 28, 2017. He was born in Kalamazoo on October 25, 1926 to the late John and Helen (Wyruchowski) Huberty.

Elmer is survived by his daughter, Patricia (Richard McBride) Huberty of Grand Junction as well as many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Naleta, and his brother, Wayne “Bud” Huberty.

Elmer served his country in the Navy on a destroyer during the Pacific Theater of World War II. Following his service in the Navy, Elmer went to college on the GI Bill earning his degree as an Electrical Engineer. He started his career in electrical design and patented his design. He later went to work in the paper mills as project manager where he would oversee installation of new equipment. Following retirement, Elmer went on to enjoy his main hobby of blueberry farming. In addition to blueberry farming he enjoyed working on his tractor. There will be no public services for Elmer. Burial of his cremains will take place at Arlington Hill Cemetery in Bangor. Share a memory, photo or sign the online guestbook at: www.adamspawpaw.com.







Week of April 30

Thomas Earl Hoke

A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Thomas Earl Hoke, 66, of South Haven, passed away Tuesday, April 25, 2017 at his home. He was born March 21, 1951 to Jack and Dorothy (Anderson) Hoke in Plainwell, Michigan. A lifelong learner, Tom graduated from Hastings High School in 1969 and would go on to earn his Bachelor’s degree from Alma College in 1974, Master’s Degree in Education from Michigan State University in 1975, and Educational Specialist degree from Western Michigan University in 1985. Tom married Sheryl Ann Esterly on August 21, 1976 in Jackson, Michigan. 

Tom came from a long, celebrated line of teachers and educators. He taught middle school and elementary school for Manistee Public Schools, then became the principal for Bloomingdale Middle School. He then went on to serve as the superintendent for Bloomingdale Public Schools for close to twenty years. A dedicated and skilled educator, Tom was passionate about raising up generations of students and caring for their families. He believed in building up his colleagues and united everyone around him in striving for excellence in their work. 

A lover of nature, Tom enjoyed fishing, gardening, and spending time outdoors. He loved being close to Lake Michigan and enjoyed many summers with his family on its shores. In his younger years, Tom was a competitive athlete and early in his career served as a varsity wrestling and football coach. Throughout his life he enjoyed watching college basketball and football, especially MSU. 

Tom found his greatest joy in his family and his legacy lies in his wife, children, and granddaughter. He cherished time spent with them, including shared meals, holiday celebrations, memorable travel adventures, and lots of laughter as Tom had a very unique and memorable sense of humor. His faith in God was also a cornerstone for his life and he was a member of Hope Reformed Church in South Haven.

Tom's competitive drive, persistence, and stubborn positivity lead him to persevere through many difficult life challenges, which he met with courage and hope.

Tom is survived by his loving, nurturing wife of 40 years, Sheryl Hoke, treasured children – Ryan (Jacqui) Hoke, Janna (Charlie) Hoke, and Jordan Hoke, beloved granddaughter – Imogen Hoke, caring brothers – Stephen (Kitty) Hoke and Jeff Hoke, and mother-in-law – Mae Esterly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Dorothy of Hastings, MI, his father-in-law, Fredrick Esterly, and his brother-in-law, Steven Esterly both of Jackson, MI. 

Visitation will be held from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Thursday, May 4, 2017 at Hope Reformed Church in South Haven. Funeral services will follow visitation at 4:00 PM at the church with Pastor Steve Smallegan officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Tom's memory to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (https://pulmonaryfibrosis.donorpages.com/Tribute/TomHoke). 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.

Nelson J. Geisler

Nelson J. Geisler, 77, of South Haven, Michigan passed away Thursday, April 20, 2017. He was born December 16, 1939 to Nelson and Ruth (Manthe) Geisler in Benton Harbor, Michigan. Nelson married Donna Quattrin on June 17, 1961. Known by many as “Butch”, he retired from the Palisades Nuclear Power Plant as the Director of Buildings and Grounds in 2001. His love for his family, children, and grandchildren was boundless and he was loved equally in return. He cherished being with his children and grandchildren. He also enjoyed camping on North Manitou Island (Windingo!), shopping at Menards for bargains-especially the free stuff, attending Notre Dame football games, and watching his chickens for all the life lessons and good eggs they provided. He could fix anything broken with almost nothing but a Leatherman.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years – Donna Geisler of South Haven, children – Alan (Gail) Geisler of Noblesville, Indiana; Kristyn (Daniel) Diekema of South Haven, Michigan; Juliann (Kyle) Caldwell of Rockford, Michigan; Amy (Matthew) Monte of Houghton, Michigan; and David (Jennie) Geisler of Coloma, Michigan; siblings – Donna Owen of Louisville, Kentucky and Lois Hoyt of Benton Harbor, Michigan; and 17 grandchildren who know him as Papa – Alyssa & Megan, Jesse & Kirsty, Danika, Ryker, Callen, Brennan, Emma, Zac, Nelson, Kyla, Logan, Camdon, Devin, Ella, and Brayden.

The family will be holding a private gathering at a future date and would prefer not to receive gifts or flowers. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFh.com.



Spencer Roggow

Spencer Roggow, age 24 of Bangor passed away Sunday, April 23, 2017 at the Bronson Hospital, Kalamazoo, suddenly from cardiac arrest. Spencer was born April 15, 1993 in Niles, the son of Allen and Tina (Brown) Roggow and has lived in the Bangor area for the past 10 years. He was attending school to become a minister, was a member of the Bangor Church of Christ, and was a loving father.  Spencer loved hunting and spending time with his family. Surviving are his wife, Amanda whom he married in August 2015; 2 sons, Liam and Isaiah; mother, Tina (Curt) Grier of St. Joseph; father, Allen (Judy) Roggow of Bangor; 8 siblings, Vicki Blackmore, Steven (Yolanda) Blackmore, Sarah (John) Remelts, Courtney (Michael) Rooding, Danielle Roggow, Andrea Grier, Mitchel Grier, Brandan Baker; grandparents, Grant and Jacqueline Payne, Marilyn Brown, Mary Grier, Edwin and Joyce Wondergem; several aunts, uncles, cousins and many nieces and nephews.

The family met friends Thursday, April 27, 2017 at the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home where the funeral service was held at 11:00 AM Friday, with Rev. Robert Wondergem officiating. Interment followed in Hoppin Cemetery, Arlington Township. The family suggests memorials be made for his sons, Liam and Isaiah. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.



 Week of April 23

Ruth E. Hagger

Ruth E. Hagger,age 86, of South Haven went to be with her Lord Thursday, April 13, 2017 at Wings Home in Allegan.  Ruth was born August 25, 1930 in South Haven, the daughter of the late Wilfred and Juanita Durand and had lived in South Haven her entire life.  Ruth attended the Church of the Branches in Lacota for the past several years.  She loved animals and was always willing to take in strays.  Ruth enjoyed art and was always willing to lend a helping hand to someone in need.  Ruth loved going to the beach, antiques and reading a good book.  Surviving are her children, Virginia (Lester) Tesmer of Zeeland, Rebekah (Doug) Hambley of Pullman and Stephen (Tammy) Hagger of South Haven; 15 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; a brother, William Durand of South Haven; a half sister, Mary Durand of Union, MI.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Hagger; a son, Daniel Hagger; a grandson, Benjamin Hambley.  A memorial service was held Monday, April 17, 2017 at the Pullman Bible Church. The family suggests memorials be made to Wings of Hope Hospice of Allegan.  Arrangements by the Bloomingdale Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com. 

Thomas N. Robinson

Thomas N. Robinson, 91, of South Haven, passed away Saturday, April8, 2017 in the comforts of his home. Tom was born April 29, 1925 to Thomas and Gertrude (Boot) Robinson Sr., in Holland, Michigan. Following graduation from St. John's Catholic HS in Benton Harbor, Tom served his country in the US Navy during World War II. After his service, Tom attended and graduated from the University of Detroit Law School, and joined his father in practicing law in the Benton Harbor area. Tom later opened the law practice of Robinson, Ford & Swanson Law , until his retirement in 1983. Tom married Audrey A. Kroll on May 7, 1955, raising 6 children, and sharing 53 years of marriage before her death in 2008.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Audrey, and two sons – William K. Robinson, and Gerald E. Robinson; Grandson - Jonathon Robinson; Siblings - William Robinson, Margaret Howard, Ruth Ford, Mary McGee, Nan Schwedler, and Sally Tucker; Son-in-law - David Weichhand.

Tom is survived by his children – Elizabeth (William) Steere of South Haven, Richard (Tess) Robinson of St. Joseph, Thomas (Cindy) Robinson of DeWitt, Michigan, and David (Sharon) Robinson of Portage, Michigan, Daughter-in-law Deidre, of Commerce Township, Michigan; Siblings - Gertrude Preble of Fremont, Michigan, John (Betty) Robinson of St. Joseph, and Dorothy Ludlam of Illinois; 13 grandchildren – Sarah, Becky, Laura, Josh, Alyssa, Jessica, Michael, Katie, Nicholas, Maggie, Matthew, Zachary and Stephanie; and seven great-grandchildren

Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Friday, April 28, 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Mass will be held at 12:00 PM on Saturday, April 29, 2017 at the St. Basil Catholic Church with Rev. Father Robert Flickinger officiating. Tom will be laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery in Benton Harbor. In lieu of flowers, friends may make a memorial contribution to St. Basil Restore the Glory. 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.

Thomas Irving Aemisegger

Thomas Irving Aemisegger, 74, of Grand Junction, passed away Monday, April 17, 2017 at his home under Hospice care. He was born January 28, 1943 to Donald and Margaret (Burns) Aemisegger in Detroit, Michigan. Thomas served his country during the Vietnam war in the United States Army. He married Ruth Ann Foss on July 2, 1983 in Grand Junction. Thomas worked as a metallurgist for Bohn Aluminum for 29 ½ years and later worked at Mamouth Inc. in Holland for ten years before his eventual retirement in 2001. Thomas loved to be outdoors camping, fishing, or working on trucks. He especially enjoyed time spent with his family and grandchildren.

He is preceded in death along with his parents by a brother – Robert Aemisegger.

Thomas is survived by his wife – Ruth Ann Aemisegger of Grand Junction, children – Ronald Aemisegger of Kalamazoo, Shelly (Bob) Davis of Decaturville, Tennessee, Mitchell Detlefsen of Grand Junction, David Aemisegger of Illinois, and Kenneth Aemissegger of Kalamazoo, siblings – Donald Aemisegger of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Janice Carter and June Aemisegger both of North Carolina. Six grandchildren – Alicia and Heather Aemisegger, Nick, Cheyenee, Chelsea, and William Davis and three great grandchildren – Anilice, Sophia, and Olivia also survive.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 22, 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services will follow visitation at 11:00 AM with Rev. Sarah Farkas officiating at the funeral home. Thomas will be laid to rest at Grand Junction 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 of South Haven, 637-0333.

Week of April 16

Cheryl Bender

Cheryl Bender passed away on Sunday, April 2nd 2017. Cheryl was born in Allegan, Michigan on June, 5th 1951, the daughter of the late Alexander and Marilyn Joyce.  After high school Cheryl was married briefly and then moved to Los Angeles where she met her second husband, Craig Bender, with whom she had two sons, Craig and Jacob Bender.  Cheryl completed her Bachelors of Nursing in 1994 as a single mother of two going on to work tirelessly as an operating room nurse for 22 years.  Not only as a nurse, but also in her personal endeavors, Cheryl selflessly dedicated her life to faith in God and to caring for others. Cheryl was an avid quilter who loved all things involving nature and wildlife.  She also enjoyed gardening, cooking, and traveling.  Cheryl’s greatest pleasure in life was not to receive but to give to others. 

Surviving are her 2 sons: Craig Bender and his wife Hyoshin Kim of Dallas, Texas; and Jacob Bender and his wife Amanda Bender of Gobles Michigan, and her three grandchildren, Rayshawn Hiner, Owen Bender, and Glenn Bender. Also surviving are her two sisters: Sandra Copenhaver and Alexandra Joyce; her nieces: Shannon Wagoner and Ashley Cousins; her nephew Joe Cousins; her great nieces: Alaysia Allen, Kylee Cousins, Mackenzie Cousins, Mason Cousins; her great nephew Caden Jefferies. She was preceded in death by her father Alexander, her mother Marilyn, and her sister Marilyn.  

A memorial service was held Friday, April 7th at the Bloomingdale Christian Church.  The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Bloomingdale Christian Church.    Arrangements by the Bloomingdale Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

Donald Gerald Holzhueter

Donald Gerald Holzhueter, 84, of South Haven, passed away Friday, April 7, 2017 at the Metro Health Hospital in Wyoming, Michigan. He was born August 18, 1932 to Otto and Lydia (Lemke) Holzhueter in Watertown, Wisconsin. He married Suzanne Gaertner on July 27, 1958 and shared 58 years of marriage. Don was a 1955 graduate of Dr. Martin Luther College. He taught school at Redeemer Lutheran in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and St. John Lutheran in Westland, Michigan. Don then moved to South Haven and taught at the St. Paul Lutheran School for 25 years. He taught a total of 42 years before his retirement. Following retirement Don taught one year in the Czech Republic. He was also a long time organist and choir director. He was a member of the St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Haven. Don loved to travel with family and close friends. He also enjoyed reading, gardening and watching sports on television,. especially the Green Bay Packers.

He is preceded in death along with his parents by two infant children – Mark and Kate Holzhueter, brothers – Elmer, Clarence, Irvin, Lester, Melvin, Carlton and Leonard, and two sisters – Hilda Fischer and Lorraine Kiesow.

Don is survived by his wife – Suzanne Holzhueter of South Haven, children – Kurt (Donna) Holzhueter of Lowell, Michigan and Karl (Lori) Holzhueter of Jenison, Michigan. Two grand children – Kallie and Katie Holzhueter.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, April 12, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Haven. Memorial services will follow at 11:00 AM at the church with Pastor Stephen Daley officiating. In luie of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Paul 40 Weeks of Focus – Matching Fund. Don will be laid to rest at Highland Memorial Park in Appleton, Wisconsin. 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.

Marshall E. Springett

Marshall E. Springett, age 86 of Bangor, God called his dedicated servant home Saturday, April 8, 2017 surrounded by his family and friends. Marshall was born Dec. 12, 1930 in Bangor, the son of Merle and Flora (Whiteman) Springett, and lived the majority of his life in the Bangor area.  Marshall was a long time member of the Bangor Church of Christ, Oakland Church of Christ and Comstock Church of Christ. His passion was serving the Lord, his family and working on cars, which he enjoyed taking the cars apart and sometimes putting them back together. Surviving are his wife, Louise whom he married Nov. 25, 1961; 3 children, Pam (Martin) Brock of Shepherd, Peter (Becky) Springett of Bangor, Kathy (Sam) Wrisley of Muncie, IN; daughter-in-law, Lisa Springett; 10 grandchildren, Mark Yager, Chris Yager, Mathew Yager, Andrea Springett, Allison (Kevin) Watson, Shelby Springett, McKinley Springett, Taylor Wrisley, Silas Paul Wrisley, Mason Wrisley; brother Clair (Janet) Springett of Bangor; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a son, Paul Andrew Springett; 3 sisters, Marion Horton, Naleta Huberty, Leora Gruetzmacher; and a brother, Gerald Springett.

The family will meet friends from 2-4 and 6-8 PM Monday, April 17, 2017 at the Bangor Church of Christ, 214 N. Walnut, Bangor, where the funeral service will be at 10:30 AM Tuesday, with Sam Wrisley and Jeremiah Johnson officiating.  Interment will follow at Mount Everest Cemetery, Kalamazoo, MI. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials be made to the Caring Circle/Hospice at Home of South Haven, the Bangor Church of Christ, or to Hope 2 Liberia, 1010 E. Centennial Ave., Muncie, IN 47303.  Arrangements entrusted to the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

Richard “Dick” Sandstrom

Richard "Dick" Sandstrom 90, of South Haven, passed away Sunday April 9, 2017 at Grace of Douglas Nursing Home in Douglas , Michigan. He was born March 11, 1927 to Arthur and Gwendolyn (Ireland) Sandstrom in South Haven, Michigan. 

Dick honorably served his country in the U.S. Navy as a firemen aboard the USS Edgecomb during World War II. Upon his return, he worked briefly at Everett Piano before going into business with his grandfather as a bricklayer.  He was a lifelong member of Bricklayer and Allied Craftsman's local #17. 

He married Lucille Beatty in November 23, 1953 in St. Joseph, Michigan and shared 51 years of marriage with her before her passing in 2004.  Dick was an avid golfer and loved spending time with his friends at the American Legion Post # 49 and the VFW. He was also a member of St Basil Catholic Church. 

He is preceded in death by his parents and his wife Lucille

Dick is survived by his daughters, Carol (Gene) Schaeffer of Frisco, TX and Jean Sandstrom of South Haven. Grandchildren, Conner and Colin Schaeffer, Brittany Schaeffer Meyers, Allison Zemanek and great grandchildren Max, Liam and Isabella

Private family services will 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 of South Haven, 637-0333.

Edward “Eddie” Menear

Edward “Eddie” Menear, age 50, of Allegan, passed away April 8, 2017 at his home. Eddie was born April 20, 1966 in Douglas, the son of David and Catherine (Jones) Menear, and has lived in the Allegan area for the past 23 years. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, working on cars, building things and loved playing with  his grandchildren. Surviving are his wife, Debra, whom he married memorial weekend 2000; 2 daughters, Heather (Mike Logue) Goodrich of Tifton, Georgia; Aneasha (David) Masters of Potterville; son, Edwin (Nichole) Strickfaden of Princeton, NC; 6 grandchildren, Joey and Carter Ratulowski, Cheyanna Strickfaden, Alayzah Masters, Valerie and Natalie Strickfaden; 2 step-grandchildren, Cory and Christy Masters; 3 sisters, Kathy (Danny) Williams of Gobles, Brenda (Larry) Norman of Allegan,  Debbie (Don) Wheeler of Hamilton; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Carl Menear. According to his wishes cremation has taken place and no services are scheduled at this time, and a eulogy was shared by his granddaughter for Eddie. Arrangements entrusted to the Bloomingdale Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.



Louis Lawnin Crawford

Louis Lawnin Crawford (Sr) died peacefully on 4/08/2017, at the Rose Arbor Hospice Care Center in Kalamazoo. Lou was born in St. Louis, MO, on 3/12/1926. He attended St. Louis Country Day School and Princeton University, where he received a chemical engineering degree. He earned an MBA from the University of Chicago. His first career was spent in selling meat packing equipment and designing rendering plants, first for the Allbright Nell Company in Chicago, and subsequently, for his own firm, International Food Engineering.

For 30 years he traveled to over 80 countries, mostly in third-world settings, to set up food processing plants. His second career was as owner of Square Root Farms in Grand Junction, MI. His passion for farming blueberries lasted nearly 40 years. He lived in South Haven from 1976 to the present, most recently at River Ridge Retirement Community. He was a prolific artist, producing hundreds of paintings, mobiles, and wood carvings.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Joan Ashley, and his second wife, Courtney Coolidge.

He is survived by three children (Rebecca Gray, Constance C. Schmitz, and Louis Lawnin Crawford, Jr.), seven grandchildren, five step-children, twelve step-grandchildren, and numerous great-grand children from both families.

Services will be held at the South Haven Church of the Epiphany, 410 Erie Street, South Haven, Michigan 49090 on April 29 at 1:00 PM. Flowers and donations may be sent to the Church. 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.

Lucille M. Hall

Lucille M. Hall, age 81, of Grand Junction passed away Wednesday, April 12, 2017 at her home.  

Lucille was born March 22, 1936 in Paris Tennessee, the daughter of the late Joe and Birdie Mathis.  She loved to spend time bowling and was know as a wonderful cook.  She loved her family and especially all of her children and grandchildren.  Surviving are her children, Linda Ellis, Sandra Hargett, Cecil Luttrell, Brenda Adams, Tommy Luttrell, Susie Stainbrook, Harold Lee; 9 step children; many great and great grandchildren; a brother JD Mathis; a sister Becky Whitehead; many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her husband Jim Hall, her parents, 2 sons Frank and Jerry Lee, a sister Paulette Hastings, brothers, Robert Mathis, Joey Mathis, Bobby Mathis and  RL Lee.  Following her wishes cremation has taken place.  A memorial service will take place at a later date. Arrangements by, Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

Ronald Lee Dannenberg

Ronald Lee Dannenberg, 77, of South Haven, went to be with his Lord on April 11, 2017 at home. He was born September 2, 1939 to Harley and Winnie (Timmer) Dannenberg in Holland, Michigan.  Ron graduated from Zeeland High School in 1958 and later went to Davenport College.  After high school Ron enlisted in the army serving from 1958-1965.  He married Mary (Van Noord) on May 26, 1961 at Vriesland Reformed Church in Vriesland , Michigan.  Ron was the Personnel Director of Holland Die Casting and Gulf and Western in Grand Rapids before moving to South Haven in 1971.  He then became a co-owner of McKimmies where he ran the Shoe Store until he bought out McKimmies Shoes in 1983 and renamed the business Dannenberg’s Shoes which it remained until 1990.  Ron then began working for Golden Brown Bakery as their sales manager.  He worked for them for 26 years. Ron loved meeting people and talking with them.  His family meant everything to him.  He enjoyed all the sporting events and concerts his children and later his grandchildren were involved in.   He  also enjoyed coaching little league baseball when his children were younger.  He liked doing yard work and being outside.  He also enjoyed golfing and fishing and spending his winters in Florida.  Ron served as the chairman of the Blueberry Festival in 1974 and was an active member of South Haven Chamber of Commerce.  He was also an active member of Hope Reformed Church and served on the Board numerous times.  Ron also served on the Hospice Board for 6 years.  

Ron was preceded in death by his parents.

Ronald is survived by his wife Mary, children Mike (Paula) Dannenberg of Zeeland, Nancy (Charlie) Kelley, Karen (Tony) Brush, and Paul (Amy) Dannenberg all of South Haven, his brother Allen (Barb) Dannenberg of Zeeland and sister Norma (Bill) Bruinsma of Holland, Grandchildren – Taylor and Abigail Dannenberg, Travis & Shannon Kelley, Ryan, Chris and Sarah Brush and Holli and Brady Dannenberg.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Friday, April 21, 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home.  A memorial service will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, April 22, 2017 with Pastor Steve Smallegan officiating at Hope Reformed Church on Monroe Blvd in South Haven, MI.   Memorial contributions may be made to Hope Reformed Church Memorial Fund or Hospice at 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.





Susan Beam Webster

Susan Beam Webster, 75, of South Haven, passed away Sunday, March 26, 2017 at the Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community in South Haven. Susan was born July 12, 1941 to Jim and Edna (DuFresne) Webster in Chicago, Illinois. She graduated from the Roosevelt University in Chicago and earned her RN from Lake Michigan College. Susan taught Elementary School in Chicago before becoming a registered nurse. As a nurse, Susan worked at the Martin Luther Memorial Home, Countryside Nursing, and South Haven Hospice. She enjoyed crocheting, knitting, and sewing and loved to read in her spare time.

She is preceded in death along wither her parents by her first husband – Phil Chitister.

Susan is survived by her children – Angie Franks of Holland, Michigan, Roy (Danielle) Nuismer of Grand Junction, Christine (Gary) Lewis of Texas, and Tony Nuismer of South Haven, siblings – Bill Webster of North Carolina and Mike Webster of Chicago, Illinois, grandchildren – Daniel, Raben, Kendra, Lindsay, Terryn and one great granddaughter.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Friday, April 21, 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home 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 of South Haven, 637-0333.

Donald LaVerne Wycoff

Donald LaVerne Wycoff, 86, of South Haven, passed away Monday, April 10, 2017 at the Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo. He was born October 9, 1930 to Cecil and Josie (Harris) Wycoff in Eau Claire, Michigan. Donald married Naida Sisson on September 22, 1951 and shared 44 years of marriage before her passing in 1995. Donald worked for Controlled Rubber for 30 years before retiring in 1982. He began working as a sales clerk at WalMart in 1997. He married Edna Lents on November 11, 2001. A farmer at heart and an avid gardener, Donald enjoyed spending time outside. He also enjoyed fishing. He was a member of the United Pentecostal Church of South Haven.

He is preceded in death along with his parents and wife by a brother – Larry Wycoff and sister – Idola Lawrey.

Donald is survived by his wife – Edna Lents, children – Joni (Mike) Plochocki of Covert, Carol (Allan) Ulen of Grand Junction, and Donald A. Wycoff of South Haven, Edna’s son – Dewayne (Sandy) Lents, and siblings – Josie Valleria, Joann King, and Fermon (Bev) Wycoff. Six grandchildren and six great grandchildren also survive.

Memorial services will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, April 18, 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven with Rev. Brian DeLong and Rev. Philip Haner officiating. Donald will be laid to rest next to his wife Naida in Lakeview Cemetery. Contributions may be made in Donald’s memory to the United Pentecostal Church of South Haven 617 Kalamazoo 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 of South Haven, 637-0333.





2017 Obituaries

Week of April 9

Cheryl Bender

Cheryl Bender passed away on Sunday, April 2nd 2017. Cheryl was born in Allegan, Michigan on June, 5th 1951, the daughter of the late Alexander and Marilyn Joyce.  After high school Cheryl was married briefly and then moved to Los Angeles where she met her second husband, Craig Bender, with whom she had two sons, Craig and Jacob Bender.  Cheryl completed her Bachelors of Nursing in 1994 as a single mother of two going on to work tirelessly as an operating room nurse for 22 years.  Not only as a nurse, but also in her personal endeavors, Cheryl selflessly dedicated her life to faith in God and to caring for others. Cheryl was an avid quilter who loved all things involving nature and wildlife.  She also enjoyed gardening, cooking, and traveling.  Cheryl’s greatest pleasure in life was not to receive but to give to others. 

Surviving are her 2 sons: Craig Bender and his wife Hyoshin Kim of Dallas, Texas; and Jacob Bender and his wife Amanda Bender of Gobles Michigan, and her three grandchildren, Rayshawn Hiner, Owen Bender, and Glenn Bender. Also surviving are her two sisters: Sandra Copenhaver and Alexandra Joyce; her nieces: Shannon Wagoner and Ashley Cousins; her nephew Joe Cousins; her great nieces: Alaysia Allen, Kylee Cousins, Mackenzie Cousins, Mason Cousins; her great nephew Caden Jefferies. She was preceded in death by her father Alexander, her mother Marilyn, and her sister Marilyn.  

A memorial service was held Friday, April 7th at the Bloomingdale Christian Church.  The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Bloomingdale Christian Church.    Arrangements by the Bloomingdale Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.



Ann Clayton

Ann Clayton, age 78, of Bangor, passed away Saturday, April 1, 2017.  Ann was born February 26, 1939 in Plainwell, the daughter of the late Carl and Mildred Wahmhoff and had lived in the Bangor area since 1961.  Ann was very involved in her church where she volunteered for Christian Service, St. Vincent De Paul, Daughters of Mary and many other programs.  She had worked for Bangor Public Schools as the Food Service Manager where she became famous for her chocolate chip cookies.  Ann also volunteered for hospice and the South Haven Hospital coffee shop. 

Surviving is her husband Frank "Butch" of 37 years; 4 children; Scott Roe  of League City TX, Cathy Kimbler of Bangor, Jenny Ford of Portage, Jeff (Laura) Roe of Bangor; 2 step daughters Shelley (Rob) Allen of Hartford, Julie Clayton - Fristick; 15 grandchildren; siblings, Carl (Shirley) Wahmhoff; sisters, Marie Walker, Gerry (Fran) Wahmhoff, Ellie (Dan) Krezenski, Lucy (Gerry) Remington, Joe (Linda) Wahmhoff, Rita Wahmhoff, Barb (Bill) Maury;  sisters in law, Carol Roe and Deena Hay; numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her 1st husband Dale Roe, a son Brian Roe, brother Fr. Andrew Wahmhoff, sister Joni Detzler, Brother Bob Wahmhoff, brothers in law Harold Roe and Frank Hay and her parents.

Mass of Christian Burial took place Friday, April 7th, 11 AM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Fr. Robert Flickinger Celebrant.  Interment followed in Arlington Hill Cemetery.  The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Christian Service or St. Vincent De Paul. 

Diane Marguerite (Overzat) Klokke

Diane Marguerite (Overzat) Klokke was born on April 8, 1951 in Brooklyn, NY to her parents, Albert and Beatrice Overzat. She was the youngest of 6 children: Albert, Jimmy, Frederick, Vincent, and Dolores. She lived in New York until vacationing in Florida and deciding to make that her new home. She met the father of her children and raised them on Saddle Lake in Grand Junction, Michigan: James, Janis, and Karl. She worked at Bloomingdale Public Schools for 15 years before retiring. After raising her children, she met her forever mate, Steve Lipka. They resided in Three Rivers and loved to travel, go to NASCAR events, go to garage sales, and work their hot dog cart at summer festivals. She always made new friends. She loved her 9 grandchildren with all her heart, and was so proud of each and every one of them: Cassidy, Darius, Andrew, Samantha, Matthew, Kathleen, Anson, Arlo, and Charlotte. They brought her so much joy! She was always an animal lover and often found herself with new furry family members. She had 4 dogs and 2 cats that loved her dearly. Always ready to help anyone in need, she had a smile on her face and gave joyfully, putting their needs before her own. She has brought so many smiles and laughter to everyone she met. Her one of a kind personality will never be forgotten. She passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side. Her last words were, “I am happy.” Mom, Sister, Girlfriend, Ommie, and Grandma: You will always be missed and will be forever loved!  According to her wishes, cremation has taken place.  A memorial service was held Sunday, April 2.  Arrangements by the Bloomingdale Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

Amy L. Putnam

Mrs. Amy L. Putnam, age 81, the widow of Rev. Leonard C. Putnam passed away on Friday, March 31, 2017. Funeral arrangements will be published at a later date by Pederson Funeral Home of Rockford, MI.



Ryan Edward Cowgill

Ryan Edward Cowgill, 14, of Lawton, passed away Tuesday, April 4, 2017 peacefully at his home surrounded by his family. He was born December 14, 2002 to Brian Cowgill and Carry (Keen) Avery in Watervliet. Ryan attended Lawton Public Schools where he played football. Ryan enjoyed playing video games in his free time.

He is survived by his parents – Carry (Wayne) Avery of Lawton and Brian (Ashleigh) Cowgill of Havana, Arkansas, siblings – Michael and William Cowgill of Lawton and Nichole Cowgill of Arkansas, grandparents – Danny Lee Keen, Sr., Therina Reynolds, Sherry James, and Edward Cowgill, and great grandparents – Mary Keen and Roberta and Clarence Cowgill. Several aunts, uncles, cousins, and his dog “Bud” also survive.

Visitation will be held 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Saturday, April 8, 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services will follow visitation at 12:00 PM with Pastor G. Ben Bowater 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.



 Week of April 2

Cheryl Fritz

Cheryl Fritz, 62, of Kalamazoo formerly of South Haven passed away Friday, March 24, 2017 at Borgess Medical Center, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She was born September 3, 1954 Gerald and Ethel (Nienhuis) Brinks in South Haven, Michigan. Cheryl was a graduate of South Haven High School and Western Michigan University. She worked as an accountant out of her home.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Robert, and her parents.

Cheryl is survived by her son – Ryan (Amy) Fritz of Kalamazoo, grandchildren – Clair and Lucy. Siblings – Tim (Gail) Brinks and Geraldine Ignelzi of South Haven, Michigan, Carolyn (Clayton) McNeal of Las Vegas, Nevada. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

Memorial services will be held Thursday, March 30, 2017 at 12:00 p.m. at the American Legion Post # 49 in South Haven with Rev. Dennis Goodrich officiating. Cheryl will be laid to rest in Lakeview Cemetery, South Haven, Michigan. 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.

Lee Harold Soergel

Lee Harold Soergel , 74, of South Haven, Michigan passed away Saturday, March 25, 2017 at Bronson South Haven Hospital in  South Haven. He was born August 22, 1942 to Lester and Anne (Mielke) Soergel in South Haven .  Lee worked as a Supervisor for many years at Lovejoy, Inc. in South Haven.

He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Loren Soergel.

Lee is survived by his wife - Gratia (Nower) Soergel, brother - Les (Sue) Soergel,  Children – Ron Young of Goshen, Indiana, Gregory (Dawn) Young of Lawrence and Missy (Toby) Dornan of South Haven,  Five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren also survive.

Lee enjoyed golfing, bowling and weekly card games with his friends.  Lee had many good times with his brother.  He was a very special man to his family.  He lived his life exactly the way he wanted  As his brother always said., “If you couldn’t get along with Lee, you couldn’t get along with anybody!”

Celebration of Life will be held Friday, March 31 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00p.m. at Peace Lutheran Church in South Haven.  Funeral Services will follow at 12:00 p.m. at the church.  Memorial contributions may be made to Al Van Humane Society.  For all who love Lee, the family would like you to memorialize him with one random act of kindness.   

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.

Jerry Allen Martin

Jerry Allen Martin, 67, of South Haven, passed away Sunday, March 26, 2017 at the Lakeland Regional Hospital in St. Joseph. He was born June 7, 1949 to Reed and Viola (Tesmer) Martin in Allegan, Michigan. Jerry married Diane Wheeler on February 17, 1968 at the Maple Grove Bible Church in South Haven. He worked for the South Haven Rubber Company for 26 years as well as other factories in and around South Haven before his retirement. He was a skillful mechanic who enjoyed tinkering in his garage and working on automobiles. He also loved to go to the lake.

He is preceded in death along with his parents by a brother – Claude Martin.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 49 years – Diane Martin of South Haven, children – Shelly (Lincoln) Clark of Dowagiac, Thomas (Amanda) Martin of Cassopolis, and Timothy (Tracy) Martin of Holland, brother – Reed Martin, Jr. of Pullman, and grandchildren – Emily, Landon, Gracie, Justin, Jacob, Kayla, and Jessica.

Visitation will be Saturday, April 8, 2017 at Bethel Baptist Church from 10:00 to 11:00 AM. Memorial services will follow at 11:00 AM at the church with Pastors Mark Congrove and Dale Byers 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.

Pal T. Shinault

Pal T. Shinault, age 77 of Grand Junction was called home to be with the Lord Tuesday, March 28, 2017 at Bronson Hospital of South Haven. Pal was born July 22, 1939 in Marked Tree, Arkansas the son of Joseph and Luvicie (Phillips) Shinault and has lived the majority of his life in the Grand Junction area. Pal was a member of the Bangor Free Methodist Church, where he was active on the board and did the general maintenance. Pal was baptized at the Maple Grove Bible Church in 1976 by Pastor Jack Oliver. He enjoyed Tigers baseball, motorcycling, snowmobiling, dune buggies, his old truck, and fixing everything, and was an avid Jeff Gordon fan. He was loved by everybody, was the favorite uncle, and never met a stranger. Pal loved his family more than anything. Surviving are his wife, Eva whom he married in 1982; 3 sons, David (Rhonda) Shinault of Coloma, Rusty (William) Shinault of Lakeland, FL, Danny (Lauri) Shinault of Kalamazoo; 3 step-children, Kim (Hank) Klok of Otsego, Kevin (Mica) Garrett of Longmont, CO, Dawn Distefano of Indian Rocks Beach, FL;  56 grandchildren including great grandchildren; 4 sisters, Rachel Maynard, Bertha Truelove, Judith Kennedy, Dola Murphy; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Shinault, Luvicie Menieur; step-father, Harper Menieur; sister, Gladys Ashlock; brother, Deloyd Stipes, James Shinault; and step-son, Gary Garrett; grandson, Gage Jenkins. The family met friends Thursday at the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home. The funeral service was held Friday at the Bangor Free Methodist Church, with Pastor Daniel Stout officiating. Interment followed in Arlington Hill Cemetery.  The family suggests memorials be made to the Bangor Free Methodist Church. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

Mother Denice Brown

Mother Denice Brown, our beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, aunt and cousin was born in Chicago, IL to the late Rev. Hardy D. Preston and Mother Learntean Love on August 24, 1949. She was affectionately called "Niecy". She enjoyed spending time with her father and moved with him to Sumrall, Mississippi. There, she started the first gospel choir convening at Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church along with her sister, Dorothy.

In 1966, she returned to Chicago, IL and organized the Inspirational Choir at Greater Christian Fellowship Church. She always encouraged each individual to embellish their gifts to sing. The services were vibrant and fulfilling as the spirit of the Lord anointed her and the people of God in the ministry.

In 1970 Denice was joined in holy matrimony to Chester Lee Gavin. Chester and Denice nurtured four beautiful children, Xavier, Valdimir, Kenya and Marcus. Denice was also known for her blessed hands. She was creative, a prolific seamstress, and she enjoyed sewing various garments. Denice was known for being the vibrant, jubilant and at times comical.

In 1984, she transitioned to Covert, MI with her family where she continued to utilize her gifts and birthed a youth choir at Gospel Tabernacle Church, where The Late Rev. Willie Lewis was the Pastor.

In 2003, she married Odell Brown and continued to enjoy life with Odell and her family. Denice wasn’t a millionaire but she was altruistic and sowed plenty of love, joy and wisdom in others’ lives. On any given day she would provide food and shelter for various teenagers from the city of Covert and South Haven, Michigan. She was affectionately known as “Ma” to many young adults.

Denice transitioned from this life on Thursday, March 24, 2017 surrounded by her posterity. She was proceeded in death by her parents a Father, Rev. Hardy D. Preston, a Mother, Learntean Love; a husband, Odell Brown, three brothers, Charles Love, Cleo Preston, Charles Tyrone, and special mother/friend, Mary Preston.

She leaves to cherish her memories with three devoted sons, Xavier, Valdimir and Marcus, one daughter, Kenya (Amere), eight siblings, Dorothy Morris, Valetta, Joseph, Tony (Melanie), Hardell (Raynard), T. Deane, Scottie, and Nicole (Larry); thirteen grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; aunties, her dear cousins, Caroline Easterling, Bobbi McGee, Patricia Lee, one god-sister Nellie Cox, one god-daughter LaShan Styles and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Wake was held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Saturday, April 1, 2017 at the Gospel Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church in Covert. Funeral services followed wake at 11:00 AM with Elder Valdimir Gavin officiating. Denice 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 of South Haven, 637-0333.



Susan Beam Webster

Susan Beam Webster, 75, of South Haven, passed away Sunday, March 26, 2017 at the Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community in South Haven. Susan was born July 12, 1941 to Jim and Edna (DuFresne) Webster in Chicago, Illinois. She graduated from the Roosevelt University in Chicago and earned her RN from Lake Michigan College. Susan taught Elementary School in Chicago before becoming a registered nurse. As a nurse, Susan worked at the Martin Luther Memorial Home, Countryside Nursing, and South Haven Hospice. She enjoyed crocheting, knitting, and sewing and loved to read in her spare time.

She is preceded in death along wither her parents by her first husband – Phil Chitister.

Susan is survived by her children – Angie Franks of Holland, Michigan, Roy (Danielle) Nuismer of Grand Junction, Christine (Gary) Lewis of Texas, and Tony Nuismer of South Haven, siblings – Bill Webster of North Carolina and Mike Webster of Chicago, Illinois, grandchildren – Daniel, Raben, Kendra, Lindsay, Terryn and one great granddaughter.

Services will be announced 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 of South Haven, 637-0333.



Velta Galens

Velta Loze Galens of Covert, MI, was born March 20, 1914 in Drusti, Latvia to Arturs Loze and Veronika (Zenks) Loze and went to be with her eternal Lord on March 26, 2017. Both her parents and brother, Indulis Loze, preceded her in death as did her husband, Janis Galens. Velta graduated in 1936 from the Teacher’s Institute in Latvia with a degree in teaching music and choir directing and taught in Riga, Latvia until WWII interrupted her work and she was forced to flee her beloved homeland. She spent a number of years in various displaced persons’ camps in Germany. Velta never saw her parents or her brother again and that was one of the most painful twists of fate that she had to live with.

Velta immigrated to the United States in 1949 and settled in South Carolina but then moved to Chicago, IL where she could be closer to other Latvians. Music was a large part of her life so she joined the local Latvian mixed choir where she met her husband. The family raised three children: Dace Galens Copeland (Tom), Mara Galens Tomsons (Zigfrid) and Karlis Galens (Jody) who survive. Velta was also very active with the Gaidas (Latvian Girl Scouts) while in Chicago. She also continued using her teaching skills at the Chicago Latvian School and at later at the Kalamazoo Latvian School. The family moved to Covert, MI in 1957 where Janis pursued blueberry growing near his parents’ farm. Velta was a great support to her husband’s business often working alongside him in the fields. They both were active in the Latvian community in Kalamazoo, singing in the mixed choir “Dziesmu Vairogs.” When the choir’s director passed away, Velta took over conducting the choir. Velta drove their children to the Kalamazoo Latvian Saturday School and the Latvian Evangelical Lutheran United Church of Kalamazoo and they attended other Latvian functions in Kalamazoo as well.

Handicrafts were a passion for Velta and she tried her hand at many different types, including cross-stitch, weaving, drawing, etching, sewing, knitting and crocheting. She hand-made an altar cloth inscribed with the words: Svetits lai top Tavs vards (Hallowed be Thy name) which can still be seen adorning the altar at the Latvian church today. Quilting also became a passion for Velta. Many beautiful quilts still adorn her children’s and grandchildren’s beds. While she was still able, she crocheted lap robes to be distributed to nursing homes and other facilities.

Velta kept in touch with her 7 grandchildren, Aleks Copeland, Anna Copeland Francisco (Zachary), Larissa Galens, Marga Galens Dejongh (Matthias), Natalija Galens, Andrejs Tomsons, and Dagnija Tomsons and two great-grandchildren Ethan Copeland and Isaac Francisco. She enjoyed their company immensely and would always send them birthday cards. She imparted great wisdom when asked her opinion regarding challenges in their lives. Velta often reflected on the abundant variety of things that she had experienced in her 103 years and the memories she had. She was most proud of her family and leaves them with many wonderful memories to cherish.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, March 31, 2017, beginning at 11:00 AM with a visitation one hour prior, at the Latvian Evangelical Lutheran United Church, 122 Cherry Hill St., Kalamazoo, MI 49006, Rev. Aija Graham officiating. Interment at Riverside Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Latvian church, c/o the funeral home. Family and friends may share a condolence message online at www.joldersma-klein.com.



Week of March 26

Gladys (Mickey) Hollins Bennett

Gladys (Mickey) Hollins Bennett died Sunday, March 19, 2017, in her home in Coloma, MI. She was born in Chicago, IL on August 28, 1917 to Sidney and Della (Green) Mickey. “Glad” accepted Christ as her personal savior at an early age and was baptized at Greater Bethesda Baptist Church in Chicago IL. Her family moved to Robbins, IL where Gladys and her siblings, Dorothy and Sidney Jr., attended grade school. Gladys is preceded in death by her parents, her sister Dorothy, her first husband Harvey Sr. (Jan. 3, 1975), her brother Sidney Mickey Jr., and her daughter Betty (Jan. 2, 2010).

She leaves to honor and cherish her loving memory, her husband Willmon, her one and only son Harvey Hollins Jr. (June) Las Vegas, NV; Bill’s four children that she loved like her own: Renee Wright (George), of South Haven, MI; Sharon L. Bennett of Allen, TX; Mia S. Bennett of Oak Park, MI; and Michael Bennett of Avondale, AZ; two granddaughters: Dorothy Cooper (John) of San Bernardino, CA; Jaime Hollingsworth (Tory) of Las Vegas, NV; five grandsons: Marcus A. Crockett of Miami, FL; the Rev. Harvey Hollins III of Belleville, MI; Sean M. Hollins (Sonya) Kalamazoo, MI; Chad A. Hollins, Las Vegas, NV; George Wright III, Oak Park, IL.; thirteen great grand children, and three great-great grandchildren; two nieces: Patricia Collier of Broken Arrow, OK; and Cynthia Rowan (Rev. Steven) of Richmond Heights, OH, and several great nieces and nephews.

Wake will be held from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Saturday, March 25, 2017 at the Covert Community Church. Funeral services will follow wake at 12:00 PM at the church. Gladys will be laid to rest at Fish Cemetery in Covert 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.

Brenda Lee Fall

Brenda Lee Fall, 57, of South Haven, passed away Monday, March 20, 2017 at the Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community in South Haven. She was born August 19, 1959 to Curtis and Beverly (Goodrich) Lawson in South Haven. Brenda graduated from South Haven High School with the Class of ’77 and later earned an Associate’s Degree from Lake Michigan College. Brenda married David Fall on June 6, 1992 in Bangor and shared 24 years of marriage. She worked as a patient registration specialist for South Haven Health System for the past five years and loved her work. She enjoyed spending her time with her grandchildren.

She is preceded in death along with her parents by her brother – Frank Lawson.

Brenda is survived by her husband – David Fall of South Haven, children – Steven (Rachel) and David Burson both of South Haven, siblings – Mona (Robert) Nail of South Haven and Rodney (Linda) Lawson of Keeler, Michigan. Four grandchildren also survive -Jordan, Teagan, Lily, and Paige.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday, March 23, 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, March 24, 2017 at the funeral home with Steven Burson officiating. Contributions may be made in Brenda’s memory 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 of South Haven, 637-0333.

Mother Georgia Louise Cunningham

Mother Georgia Louise Cunningham, our beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, aunt and cousin was born on July 16, 1934 to the union of the late James Franklin and Lillie Lou Cunningham in Egypt, Mississippi. Her family relocated to South Haven in 1946.

Mother Cunningham was easy to talk to while she generously shared pearls of wisdom. She possessed strong family values that were inspired by her deep love for Christ Jesus. She instilled the Cunningham family heritage of discipline and respect into her six sons. Mother Cunningham transitioned from this life on Friday, March 17, 2017. She was preceded in death by her parents, co-pastor James Franklin II and Mother Lillie Lou Cunningham; three brothers – James Franklin Cunningham III, Morris Cunningham, and Bishop Fred L. Cunningham; one son – Morris Sallis and granddaughter – Angela Young.

Mother Cunningham leaves to cherish her memories and carry her legacy, five devoted sons – Co-Pastor Telesma (Quilla), Co-Pastor Joseph (Epi) of South Haven, Keith (Carolyn) of Santa Fe Springs, California, William of South Haven, and Shelby (Temeeka) of Gary, Indian, one loving brother – Bishop Joe (AuGusta) Cunningham of South Haven, nineteen grandchildren, twenty-three great grandchildren, and five great-great grandchildren. She will also be missed by a host of family and friends.

Wake will be held from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 25, 2017 at the Lily of the Valley Church in Covert. Funeral services will follow the wake at 11:00 AM with Bishops Joe Cunningham and Darryl Williams officiating. Mother Cunningham 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.



Ilene Seale Lyman

Ilene Seale Lyman, born March 8, 1937, died March 18, 2017 at West Calcasieu-Cameron Hospital. She is survived by her sons, Guy Kent, his wife Shez and daughter Jessica, and Lawrence William and his wife Andrea. Other family includes her brother, Dr. A. Kent Seale and wife Cathy; niece Shelly Newton and family niece Dr. Mary Churchman and family; nephew Charles Seale and family; nephew Dr. W. Devin Seale and wife Molly; nephew W. Collin Seale and many dear friends.

Ilene was born in Sulphur, the daughter of Dr. W.A.K. and Ilene Seale. She attended Newcomb College at Tulane University where she was a proud member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. While there, she met Lawrence G. Lyman. They were married in 1959 and remained together until his death in 2014. Ilene and Larry returned to Sulphur upon his retirement from the United States Navy. She was an active member of Henning Memorial United Methodist Church and in the greater Sulphur community.

At her request, there is no formal memorial planned. Donations in memory of Ilene Seale Lyman may be made to: W.A.K. Seale Museum at McNeese State University (MSU Foundation, Box 91989, Lake Charles LA, 70609-9982), Lagniappe Fund at Sulphur High School (100 Sycamore St., Sulphur LA, 70663), W.A.K. Seale Fellowship at Tulane University (PO Box 61075, New Orleans, LA 70161-9986).



Week of March 19

Larry S. Tripp

Larry S. Tripp, age 63 of Bangor, passed away Friday, March 10, 2017 at the South Haven Hospital. Larry was born Nov. 10, 1953 in South Haven the son of Thomas and Betty (Gurn) Tripp and has lived his whole life in the Bangor area. Larry loved working on cars, motorcycles, and anything with a motor. Surviving are 3 sons, Michael Tripp of Douglasville, GA, Jason (Kitty) Tripp of Temple, GA, Erik (Kelly Reeves) Tripp of Bremen, GA; several grandchildren; a long time partner, Luanne Tait; a nephew, Robert Tripp. He was preceded in death by his 2 brothers, Richard and David Tripp.

According to his wishes cremation has taken place and burial of cremains has taken place in Arlington Hill Cemetery. Arrangements were entrusted to the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home.

Bill Crosby

Bill Crosby, age 61, of Three Oaks, formerly of South Haven, passed away peacefully, Friday, March 10, 2017, in his home in the presence of his family.

Bill was born December 16, 1955 in South Haven, Michigan, the son of Robert and Clara (Pratt) Crosby.

He married Donna Swain April 24, 1976 in Harbert, Michigan.  Bill worked for Nylen Products in Bridgman for 20 years, at Qualitone in Sawyer for 12 years as well as several other employers over the years.  Bill loved fishing with his son Todd.  He enjoyed going to the casino and playing all the slots.  Bill enjoyed spending time with his family especially his grandchildren.  Bill enjoyed riding his bicycle all over Southwest Michigan.  Bill will always be remembered for being a hard worker and always lending a hand to those in need.

Bill will be greatly missed by family and friends.  He is survived by his beloved wife Donna; his children: Todd Crosby and Jayme (Bobby Clemons) Crosby; his grandchildren: Jasmine, Jaylin, Ronnie; his brother Robert Crosby Jr; his sister Brenda Crosby; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents; his daughter Jessica Crosby; his brother Dale Crosby.

Family and friends will gather Thursday, March 16, 2017 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Pobocik Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, 106 Ash Street East, Three Oaks, Michigan 49128.  The Funeral was held on Friday, March 17, 2017, also at Pobicik Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, 106 Ash Street East, Three Oaks, Michigan 49128. 

Bill was laid to rest in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Three Oaks Township, Michigan.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Pobocik Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, Three Oaks, Michigan  49128.

Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.

James R. Lewis

Born July 27, 1957 in South Haven, James was the son of our city’s past mayor, Richard W. and Loris (Porter) Lewis. His death occurred March 14th at 59 years of age. Cremation has taken place and the family will be honoring his life privately in a memorial celebration.

James was preceded in death by his grandparents, Charles and Hazel Lewis in Detroit and his father (2017). Survivors include his former wife and friend Linda Lewis of Zeeland, three children – Sara (Brian) Weiderman of Zeeland, Katelyn (Anthony) Ysquierdo of Jenison, and Ryan (Holly) Lewis of Mt. Pleasant, grandchildren – Braden, twins – Carter and Mason and Tanner Weiderman, Jackson Ysquierdo, and Zoey, brother – Richard W Jr. (Christine0 Lewis of Palm Coast, Florida, and children Amy, Richard W. III, Michael, and Gordon, sister – Lisa (Martin) Capaccio and Joel of Kalamazoo and Jena (Chris) Hodge of Kentwood, and mother – Lorie Lewis of South Haven.

A graduate of South Haven High School, James participated in swimming, tennis, and golf and played the trombone in the high school band. It is no exaggeration in listing his numerous talents and extraordinary accomplishments. While still in high school, he owned the area’s first CB sales business, operating from the basement in his family home. After graduation, his love of electronics led to the building of his own computer from a Heathkit and a year’s construction. This resulted in his keeping of records for several large companies in St. Joe. He owned and operated Lewis Electronics retail firm in the Lewis building, formerly South Haven Laundry on Kalamazoo Street, which he, his brother, and father remodeled into space for four other firms. In addition, James was a skilled sailor and helped his dad to charter a sailboat for cruises on Lake Michigan. This experience resulted in ownership of his own sailboat to operate on Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan.

Following surgery at Holland Hospital, Jim met and fell in love with Linda, his skilled and attractive surgical nurse whom he later married and moved to Holland. With the help of his father-in-law, James and Linda built their own home. Jim drove daily back to South Haven. An employee at Palisades Nuclear Power Plant as an electrical planner for twenty years after which, in Holland, he operated a computer business of restoring and then selling these units at a bargain.

Approximately ten years ago, life for Jim changed dramatically. His beloved father, with whom he shared so many interests, died. Plus an illness previously diagnosed flared up and as his doctors had predicted would be progressive in time. Soon his mobility diminished. Ina short time, pain increased, and for the past six years, narcotics were the only relief available and these drugs “ruled his life!” Then, a fall causing a broken hip, combined with the side effects of the drugs, forced him into a wheelchair. After exhaustive testing showed the diagnosis of MS, he became more disabled and physically challenged. Finally, after many falls, he was bed-ridden. He had been living in South Haven in a basement apartment at his mother’s home where she had been his caretaker.

Jim’s sister, Lisa, caring about his well-being and ability to heal, and after extensive research, became a licensed care giver in the use of medical marijuana capsules for severe pain relief. For the past year, James has had very little discomfort. He died peacefully and his other family members are especially appreciative of Lisa’s devotion, efforts and dedication. In addition, there have been many friends and neighbors who assisted Jim whenever needed – the family thanks you!

All of us can benefit from observing Jim’s never complaining, characteristic courage and his continual determination to go Scuba diving and sailing again...



Week of March 12

Tiffany Lynn Glidden

Tiffany Lynn Glidden (47) of Grand Junction, MI was taken from us all too soon on March 1, 2017.  She leaves behind her loving husband, Eric Ott; her “sunshine,” Samuel (Sammy) Glidden-Fry; her beloved stepchildren, Tegan, McKenzie, and Connor Ott; her parents, Terry and Coralynn (Corky) Glidden; brothers, Trevor and Corbin Glidden; sister-in law, Kim Glidden (nee Cano); nieces, Breanna and S. Glidden; nephew, A. Glidden; father-in-law, William (Bill) Ott; sister-in-law, Karla Figueroa (nee Ott); brother-in-law, Miguel Figueroa; in-laws, John and Judy Fry; and cherished extended family of aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her partner, Jeffrey Allen Fry. 

Tiffany was a lifelong resident of the Bangor community graduating from Bangor High School in 1987 before attending college at Ferris State University where she received an associate’s degree in Marketing and then proceeded to Grand Valley State University where she received her Bachelor’s degree in Communications.  She spent over 20 years working in Holland at Prince Manufacturing which became Johnson Controls Automotive and had worked on her MBA at Western Michigan University.  She had recently gone back to her first love of teaching and was enjoying the joys and challenges of being a substitute teacher primarily in Bangor but had also worked in that capacity throughout Van Buren County.  Tiffany also served in a volunteer capacity of Finance Secretary and Director of Christian Education at Bangor Simpson United Methodist Church where she and her family are also members, and she served for many years as a Sunday School teacher.

Tiffany was a beautiful, vibrant, loving and caring woman whose greatest joy in life was to make other people happy.  She always placed the well-being of others before herself, and she was all about family.  She enjoyed spending time with her parents and helping care for them and perhaps made more than occasional use of their pool.  She and Eric were finally married just last August after having spent 9 years building their family together.  In that time the family has taken two trips to Disney, a summer cross-country camping vacation out west to Mt. Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial, the Grand Tetons, Yellowstone Park and white water rafting on the Snake River in Wyoming. They had taken trips to the Gulf of Mexico several times visiting the Alabama/Pensacola area and the Mississippi/Louisiana area including New Orleans.   They also took a camping vacation out east to white water raft in the Poconos, and visited Philadelphia, Washington, DC, Williamsburg, and Virginia Beach.  All of these trips were by car with 4 kids so, while a little nuts, she loved spending time with her family and traveling.  Tiffany cherished her friends, enjoying many good times traveling with them, holidays and other gatherings at the lake, BT, and at many campouts and gatherings in people’s homes.  She had a great love of animals, dragonflies, sea turtles, the outdoors, working in her garden, the sun (to her occasional detriment), the beach, the water, and especially scuba diving and even made the most out of Michigan winters with a love of skiing.

Due to Sammy’s hospitalization, a formal celebration of her life will be held at a later date to be announced.  As Tiffany would have wished, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Al Van Humane Society or to Sammy’s college fund at Sturgis Bank in Bangor under her husband and Sammy’s guardian’s name, Eric Ott.



Charles Elmer Shaffer

Charles Elmer Shaffer, 85, of South Haven, passed away Monday, March 6, 2017 at the Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community in South Haven. Charles was born November 2, 1931 to Lyle and Ollie (Shaffer) Benson in Terra Alta, West Virginia. Charles worked in the transportation industry driving truck for years until his retirement. He honorably served his country as a Corporal in the United States Army during the Korean War.

He is preceded in death along with his parents by his siblings – Gloria Craze and Harry Shaffer.

Charles is survived by his close friend and care giver – Eula Foster.

The family would like to thank Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community, Bronson Hospital, and the Caring Circle Hospice at Home for the care they have provided Charles.

Charles will be laid to rest at the Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, Michigan. 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 Charles Nixon

William Charles Nixon of Dune Acres, IN passed away at the age of 83 in Naples, FL February 27, 2017 of natural causes.

He is survived by his wife Lois L. Nixon, a sister Marian Schrah of Wayzata, MN, and his five children by his first wife Judith E. Nixon of Burlington, VT, – Terri Brennan (Terry) of Grapevine, TX – Cindy Rios (Jim) of West Dundee, IL – Greg Nixon of Burlington, VT – Becky Nixon of Chicago, IL – Jennifer Mathis (Erik) of Dedham, MA. He also had two stepsons, Cary Allen (Trang) of Portland, OR and Terry Allen (Kim) of Valparaiso, IN. Four grandchildren – Caitlin Brennan, Greyson Shropshire, Catie Rios and Jake Rios. He is also survived by a large extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack C. and Rosalind R. Nixon, and his older brother Jack.

Bill was born in Adrian, Michigan in 1933. His family lived in Wamplers Lake, Brooklyn MI and in South Haven Michigan where Bill graduated from Central High School in 1951.

He graduated from Western Michigan University in 1955 with a degree in Engineering and was commissioned as a Quartermaster into the U.S. Army. He served 2 years at Fort Lee, VA and 3 years in Ansbach, Germany. He was honorably discharged in 1960.

He worked for the Trane Co, General Foods Corp and Grand Union, where he rose to senior management before retiring in 1998. He moved back to South Haven, MI, where he was elected to the city council. In 2002 he moved to Dune Acres, IN where he was involved in the town council and where he resided through his final days.

Memorial services will be private.

Donald B. Ridley

Donald B. Ridley passed away at his home on March 7, 2016.  

He was born October 13, 1935 in South Haven to Bert and Fern Ridley who preceded him in death.  After graduating from the University of Michigan, he worked as the manager for Oakland, CA Coliseum and then lived and performed in Europe.  He returned to the family farm to care for his father and continue the family farm selling fruit at the Eastern Market in Detroit.  Late in life, he converted to Catholicism learning and embracing all he could of his faith.  

He is survived by his sister Connie and family and by his adopted family Joseph Jessup and family.  His funeral will be at St. Peters Catholic Church, Douglas with interment to follow at McDowell Cemetery at a later date.  Donald requested that memorials be made to an organ fund for St. Peters Catholic Church.

Week of March 5

James LeRoy Morrison

James LeRoy Morrison, 77, of South Haven, passed away Tuesday, February 21, 2017 at the South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Community under Hospice care. He was born September 25, 1939 to Roy and Jannie (Newell) Morrison in Oklahoma. James graduated from South Haven High School with the Class of 1959. He worked as a die maker for DuWell, National Motors and Pemco before his eventual retirement.

He is preceded in death along with his parents by daughter – Brenda Goodrich, grandson – Derrick Goodrich and sisters – Betty Phaneuf and Imogene Hogle.

He is survived by his children – James (Michelle) Morrison of Coloma, Bonnie Fowler of Coloma, and Barbara Duis of Holland, five grandchildren – Kristen Gruetzmacher, Emily, Alexandra, Ava, and Olivia Morrison, and siblings – Jay Morrison of Arkansas, Ken (Rose) Morrison of South Haven, Kyle (Trish) Morrison of Lawrence, and Audrey Mathias of St. Johns, Michigan.

Family services will 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 of South Haven, 637-0333.

Judy Margaret James

Judy Margaret James, 78, of South Haven, formerly of Dowagiac, passed away Tuesday, February 28, 2017 at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born August 15, 1938 to Leo and Edith Rasmussen in Chicago. Leo moved his family to Dowagiac before Judy started elementary school. Although they were friends in high school, she had her first date with Frank James while both were home from college between their freshman and sophomore years. They enjoyed a play at the Sister Lakes Playhouse followed by a thrilling midnight ride on Magician Lake in the “Flying Flivver.” She married Frank on March 28, 1959 and shared 58 years of marriage.

As a Registered Nurse, she had a rewarding caregiving career. But her nurturing nature went far beyond people. As a licensed DNR Animal Rehabilitator, she nursed back to health just about every animal native to Southwest Michigan. Her home was filled with children, (three of her own as well as neighborhood kids), dogs, cats, deer, opossum, racoons, and birds of all sorts. She quietly and continuously gave to Al Van Humane Society through donations, gifts and adopting animals into her own home. Her love of people and animals lives on in her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Judy was an artist. She would choose a medium and work at it until she had it mastered and then move on to a new medium and master that. Although she sold some of her creations she found the most joy in giving her work away to the people she loved. We will all cherish the sweaters, slippers, drawings, cement leaves, sculpture and gourds we have collected over the years.

She was a lover of nature and the outdoors. Judy loved to fish with her children and grandchildren. Our photo albums are filled with pictures of her with a grandchild holding a stringer of fish. She loved to be outside digging in the dirt and planting little seedlings of hope. She taught her kids and grandkids to appreciate Mother Earth and to be kind and gentle to all living things. Any visit with her would always include a stroll through the gardens discussing the wonder all around us and how we can share it with others.

Judy spent her life nurturing nature and people. Subtly teaching her family this important skill. We are all thankful we were able to apply these skills to her over the past couple of years as her health declined. Her gift to us became our gift to her.

Her family would like to thank the health care professionals who cared for her as well as Hospice. These people came into our lives and home and made this difficult time a little more manageable.

She is survived by her husband – Frank James of South Haven, children – Vicki Wardlaw, and Edward James both of South Haven and Andy James of Cedarville, Michigan, four grandchildren – Leo and Harry James and Christopher and Zachary Wardlaw, two great grandchildren – Frank and Ivan James, and one sister – Betty McWilliams (Jim) of Dowagiac.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM on Sunday, March 5, 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven. Memorial services will follow visitation at 2:00 PM at the funeral home with Tom Janssen officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Judy’s memory to the Al Van Humane Society, PO Box 421, South Haven, Michigan 49090. Judy will join her mother and father at South Wayne Cemetery near Dowagiac. 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.



Robert G. Wood

Robert G. Wood, age 93 of Lacota,

passed away Monday, February 27, 2017 at White Oaks in Lawton.  Robert was born April 10, 1923 in South Haven, the son of Caius and Marie Wood and had lived the majority of his life in the area.  Robert honorably served his country as a member of the US Army serving during WWII in the European Theater.  He worked until retirement as a mail carrier.  He also raised blueberries and enjoyed playing cribbage.

Surviving are his 3 children, Steven (Anne) of Apex NC, Mark of Allegan, Erin (Jim) Shek of Allegan; grandchildren, Jason, Justin, Ryan, Dana, Jacob, Jenna; a special niece Kathy (Jerry) Thibeault.

He was preceded in death by his wife Zona who passed in 1983, a son Robert "Scott", 4 brothers and special friends Joe and Darlene Palumbo.

The family met friends on Friday where funeral services were held at the Bangor Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home with Chaplin Kevin Brintnall officiating, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.  Interment followed in Stephenson Cemetery.  The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Grace Hospice of Kalamazoo. 

Bonnie Jean McGowan

Bonnie Jean McGowan, 50, of Kalamazoo, passed away February 20, 2017 at her home in Kalamazoo. She was born February 27, 1966 to Autry and Gloria (McFadden) McPeak in South Haven. Bonnie worked a variety jobs at Pinnacle Foods in Fennville and Dean’s Foods in Wayland. She also worked at Countryside Nursing Home in South Haven and for Summit Polymers, Inc. in Portage. Bonnie enjoyed collecting KISS and The Walking Dead memorabilia.

She is preceded in death along with her parents by a brother – Jerry McPeak and nephew – James Mitchell.

Bonnie is survived by her siblings – Annette (Bruce) Evans of Pullman, Patrick McPeak of Pullman, Raymond (Terri) McPeak of Niles, and Scott McPeak of Mason City, Iowa. Two nephews, a niece, and two great nephews also survive.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, March 7, 2017 with Pastor Mick Schmid officiating at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Bonnie will be laid to rest at Chambers 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.

Ralph Edgar Till

Ralph Edgar Till, 85, of South Haven passed away Monday, February 20, 2017 at Bronson of South Haven. He was born December 21, 1931 to Leonard and Madge (Treat) Till, Sr. in Bangor. Living most of his life in the Bangor/South Haven area and attending area country schools and Central High. Ralph honorably served his country in the United States Army between the years of ’52 to ’54. During the Korean War, he earned the rank of Sargent First Class. Ralph married Joann Lieske on May 21, 1955 at the First English Lutheran Church.

After returning from the Army, Ralph worked for LaVern Rice exc. until in 1965 he started Ralph “PeeWee” Till Excavating, Inc. which he owned and operated for twenty five years before going to work for Horan Redi Mix and later Consumers Concrete driving their double gravel trains until his retirement in ’96. After his retirement, he still loved to drive dump trucks and bulldozers on occasional jobs.

Ralph was an active member at the Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church where he served ushering and counting collections. He was a member of the American Legion, life member of the VFW, and past member and administrator of the Loyal Order of the Moose in South Haven. He was a member of the Flywheelers where he always took his 1957 John Deere tractor for the shows. He also enjoyed dancing with his wife Joann and together they were part of square and round dancing clubs in Bangor in the ‘60s and ‘70s.

Ralph’s hobby was his work, but he enjoyed watching the NASCAR and Sprint races on TV all the time. The Big Boy restaurant in South Haven was his favorite place to hang out after retirement where he loved telling jokes and his many life stories to his friends and the staff over a cup of coffee. He loved his family dearly and devoted his life to them. He will be greatly missed.

He is preceded in death along with his parents by his siblings Ruth Heinze, Leonard Jr., and Dallas Till, his great grandson Brylen Glossip, and three beloved cousins; Bernarde & Richard Thomas and Jack Treat.

Ralph is survived by his wife of 61 years, Joann Till of South Haven, his sons Tom Till of Benton Harbor and Marc Till of South Haven, seven grandchildren – Mary Till of Paten, Colorado, Leslie Higgins and Kari Till of Holland, Michigan, Jennifer Glossip of Springfield, Missouri, Lacey Wines Till of South Haven, and Matthew and John Till of South Haven, six great grandchildren, Chad, Justice, Aidan, Jemma, Foster, and Deklyn, as well as second cousins, many nieces, nephews, and their families, special neighbors, and good friends.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Saturday, March 11, 2017 at the Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church in South haven. Memorial services will follow visitation at 11:00 Am with Pastor Travis Wilson officiating at the church. Military honors will follow the church service. Burial will take place a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church, the American Legion Post # 49 or the VFW Post #667 all of South Haven.

The family would like to thank the staff at South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Community and the Heartland Hospice team for the care they provided Ralph over this past year.



Jeri Ann Burton

Jeri Ann Burton, 44, of Kalamazoo, passed away Sunday, February 26, 2017 at the Mercy health St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Rapids. She was born August 3, 1972 to Jewell Burton in Chicago, Illinois. Jeri enjoyed singing and spending time with her family. She was a member of the True Knowledge Church of South Haven.

She is preceded in death by her grandmother – Rev. Dorothy Burton, aunts – Betty and Ella Mae Burton and uncle – Timothy Burton.

Jeri is survived by her children – Jasmine and Shaquille Burton both of Kalamazoo, mother – Jewel Burton of Kalamazoo, siblings – Theodis Burton of Kalamazoo and Deanna (Edward) Robinson of Galesburg, aunts – Diane Burton-Smith and Elder Darlene Kennebrew, three uncles – Willie Earl, Victor, and Jerry Burton, and a host of cousins.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, March 4, 2017 at the True Knowledge Church, 15886 M-140 Highway, South Haven, Michigan 49090 with Pastor Jeff Terry 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.

Christina Adams - Singer

Christina Adams- Singer, age 37, of Grand Junction passed away suddenly Thursday, March 2, 2017 in South Haven.  Christina was born December 18, 1979 in South Haven, the daughter of Richard and Brenda Adams and had lived in the area her entire life.  She enjoyed playing Bingo and watching movies. 

Surviving is her husband, Gary Singer; 2 sons, James Michael Atteberry III and Vance Ray Hambley; a stepson, Gary Singer, Jr; 3 grandchildren; a brother, Richard Adams II; a sister, Amy Michelle Mortensen; her parents, Richard and Brenda Adams. 

The family will meet friends on Tuesday from 12:30 PM until time of funeral services at 1:30 PM at the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.  Interment will follow in Breedsville Cemetery.  Memorial contributions can be made on Christina's Go Fund Me page.   





Week of Feb. 26

Lillie Marie Bustos

Lillie Marie Bustos, age 2, of Bloomingdale left this world on angel's wings, on February 17, 2017, but in our hearts she will always stay.  Lillie was a beloved beautiful little soul.  To know her was to love her.  She was taken too soon, and she will never know how much her life impacted others.  She will be forever loved and missed.  Surviving is her mother, Vanessa McDonald; brother, Aiden Bustos; grandmother, Sheila Johnson; several cousins and friends.  Private services have taken place.  Arrangements by, Bloomingdale Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com. 

Brian Lee Szymczak

Brian Lee Szymczak (Laughing Boy) passed away in South Haven on Saturday, February 18, 2017 surrounded by friends and family who love him and will miss him very much. He led a big colorful life.
Brian was born in South Haven on September 27, 1947. He joined the United States Navy at 17 and became a radio man. He received three Bronze Stars for three tours of duty in Vietnam. He was a milkman for Sherman Dairy when you still had to shovel ice over the milk. He later worked as a bartender and on a shrimp boat in Florida before becoming a cable splicer. His work took him all over the country. Brian split his time between Michigan and California where he was an excellent Northern California farmer. He loved the outdoors and hiked the Lost Coast.
He was a very politically active Progressive. His travels and stories are treasured and will be remembered by all who enjoyed his telling them.
He is preceded in death by his parents – Helen and Edmund Szymczak, brother- Stewart, and his two beautiful dogs. Brian is survived by his brothers – Denis and Roger, sister – Edye, and three children – Josh, Breanna, and Julia. Four grandchildren also survive.

Live every day like it is your last, Brian Szymczak did!

A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 PM on Sunday, February 26, 2017 at the home of the Greens, 15170 77th 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 of South Haven, 637-0333.

Bernadine Struble

Bernadine Struble, 100, of South Haven, departed this earth for her heavenly home on Tuesday, February 21, 2017 at the South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Community. She was born March 19, 1916 to Henry and Lydia (Dimmig) Stamm in Peoria, Illinois. Bernadine married Wilson Struble on March 19, 1938 at the First Church of God in South Haven and shared 62 years of marriage before his passing in 2000. Bernadine worked as a forelady at the Michigan Fruit Canners in South Haven and ran Wilson’s Bait Shop on 16th Avenue for many years alongside her husband; her faith, family, and friends were always at the forefront of her life. She enjoyed sculpting her ceramic treasures and sewing quilts, sharing her beautiful creations with family and friends. Bernadine loved spending time tending to her flower gardens and watching cardinals return every spring. She was a long time member of the First Church of God in South Haven.

She was preceded in death along with her parents and husband by her siblings – Fred, Howard, Joe, Henry and Ernest Stamm, and Verna Beiers.

Bernadine is survived by her son, who was her pride and joy – Ron (Cherie) Struble of Findlay, Ohio, grandchildren – Roger Armstrong, Brent and Michael Struble, Kristi (Tim) Kigar, and Bethany (Sean) Egler, five great grandchildren – Alycia, Alexis, Tyler, Jade, and Elohna, and her dear friends and devoted caretakers – Mildred and Merlin Woods, and their extended family, whom Bernadine loved like her own. The family would also like to thank the staff at the South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Community for the care they provided during Bernadine’s extended stay.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, February 23, 2017 at the Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven with Pastor Steve Starks officiating. Bernadine will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband Wilson. Contributions may be made in Bernadine’s memory to the First Church of God in South Haven, 567 Broadway, 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.



Arthur Ray Overhuel

Arthur Ray Overhuel, 70, of South Haven, passed away Tuesday, February 21, 2017 at his home under Hospice care. He was born October 1, 1946 to Raymond and Shirley (Underwood) Overhuel in South Haven. Art graduated from South Haven High School with the Class of 1965. He married Janet Krieger on May 20, 1972 at the Methodist Peace Temple in Benton Harbor and shared 44 years of marriage. Art was a former General Manager for Betten Chevrolet in Muskegon and was a third-generation owner of Overhuel Motor Sales which was established in 1946. Although Art was interested in classic cars, his pride and joy was his Corvette, “Sharky”. He especially enjoyed traveling with Corvette Coventry of Southwestern Michigan, who he considered his second family. Art honorably served his country in the United States Air Force. He was a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose, Elks Club, VFW, American Legion, Corvette Coventry of Southwestern Michigan and was an avid fan of University of Wisconsin football.

He is preceded in death along with his parents by a brother – Kris Overhuel and bother-in-law – Bob Teske.

Arthur “Stub” is survived by his wife – Janet Overhuel of South Haven, siblings – Kathy (Roger) Acerra and Diana Teske both of South Haven, aunt – Katherine Kirchner of South Haven, and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life with Military Honors will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, February 25, 2017 at the American Legion Post #49, 129 Michigan Avenue, South Haven, Michigan 49090. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Art’s memory to Hospice at Home, 05055 Blue Star Highway, South Haven, Michigan 49090 or 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.

Ronell Phillips

Ronell Phillips (Booth) passed away peacefully on February 13, 2017 at Largo Medical Center in Largo, Florida. She is survived by her husband, Robert Phillips of Redington Shores, FL; brother and sister-in-law Monte and Blanche Booth of South Haven, Michigan; brother, Van Booth of Lawrence, Michigan; sister and brother-in-law, Julia and Robert Shumaker of Hamilton, Michigan; step-daughter and husband Lisa and Bruce Underwood of Colorado, and many loved grandsons, nieces and nephews. Ronell worked for Raytheon for 30 years in St. Petersburg, FL during which she traveled extensively including working and living Germany for two years. Ronell truly enjoyed meeting new people and making new friends. She will be greatly missed by family and friends. No services are planned at this time.  Please visit and sign the online guestbook at www.grassofuneral.com.

Tyrone Whitfield

Tyrone Whitfield, 62, of Grand Rapids went home to be with our Lord on February 20, 2017. Tyrone was born August 9, 1954 to Howard Sr. and Cora Mae (Blunt) Whitfield in Crystal Springs, Mississippi.

Tyrone graduated from South Haven High School in 1972. He worked at National Motors Castings Co. in South Haven, MI until the company closed in 1983. Tyrone owned his own auto detail shop on Kalamazoo Street in South Haven, MI. Tyrone went on to work at Haworth in 1983 for 32 years until his retirement in April 2016. Tyrone also retired from the Michigan National Guard after serving 21 years of active duty.

Tyrone was preceded in death by his parents, his brother James and daughter Rosetta Mae “Baby Rosa” Whitfield.

Tyrone’s living sibling include: Lewis of Teri, MS; Howard of Colon, MI; Willie, Larry, Terry and Ben all of South Haven, MI and Sally of Battle Creek, MI along with a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Tyrone leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 20 years Diane (Jackson) Whitfield, daughters Tysha (John) Gill, Juanita Foth and Mioshi Whitfield (Curley) all of South Haven and Ebony (Joe) McCants of Cincinnati, OH as well as thirteen grandchildren: Keysharri, Jonbrielle, John Thomas, Deontae, Tatyana, Zamarieah, Neshyiah, Geovante, Cortez, Curley Jr., Mya, Leah and Brie.

Tyrone loved traveling, his Vette, fun and spending time with family.

A memorial service will be held at 11am on Saturday, March 4, 2017 at Solomon’s Temple Ministries, 4805 Blue Star Highway, South Haven, MI 49090.

Ida Beatrice Middleton

Ida Beatrice Middleton of Bangor, MI, passed away at home on February 19, 2017. She was surrounded by her loved ones. Ida "Beatrice" was born on November 6, 1924, in Dickson, TN to Era and Sim Kimbro. She had nine siblings. In 1944, Beatrice with her parents, moved to Detroit, MI. She married Martin Adcock and gave birth to 4 children. She worked for Chrysler's from 1949 - 1956 where she helped design Chrysler car interiors, specializing in car seating. In 1959 Beatrice remarried and gave birth to her 5th child. She became involved with farming in Florida as well as Michigan. She bought her first blueberry farm in Grand Junction, MI and was very active in the farming community. She worked hard as a farmer and equally hard for migrant workers making sure that they were paid and treated fairly. She met Cesar Chavez and worked with him to create The National Farm Workers Association. She was instrumental in the UFW signing a contract with the Coca Cola Co. covering the Minute Maid citrus workers in Florida. These workers became the United Farm Workers of America. Beatrice is survived by her loving husband, Willie Middleton of 43 years; sister, Lucille Hix of Dickson, TN; her daughters, Sandra Williams of Hartford, MI, and Jean Szatkowski (Greg) of Jupiter, FL; her son, Robert Kakarian of Grand Junction, MI; devoted friend and caregiver, Deborah Day; grandchildren, Jamie Szatkowski of Grand Blanc, MI, Richie Swan, and Britani Campbell of Jupiter, FL,   Robert Damian Kakarian of Kalamazoo, MI,  Amanda Kakarian of Kalamazoo, MI, Chris Kakarian. Christopher Kakarian, Tony Kakarian, of South Haven, MI, and Bangor, MI, Katelynn Grace Williams of Sacramento, CA; and 12 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by two sons, William "Bill" Kakarian, and Michael Kakarian. Visitation will be held on Monday, February 27, 2017 from 12:00-1:00 PM at the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home where the service will follow at 1:00 PM.  www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.



Week of Feb. 19

Shirley Jean Parker

Shirley Jean Parker passed away on February 8, 2017. Shirley was an intrepid and inspirational woman- a partner to her husband Mardell for 65 years, a mother to five daughters, Grandmom to 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Shirley was born November 10, 1927 to Meta and Albert Briere. She grew up in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and later moved to Moline Illinois. After she and Mardell were married, they lived in Park Forest and Homewood, Illinois, moving to South Haven, Michigan in 1985. In 1999, Mardell and Shirley moved to Tierra Verde, Florida where they enjoyed fishing, biking, the beautiful environment and fun times with family and friends. Shirley loved learning and was tenacious in earning a degree in Education from the University of Illinois during difficult times. She later earned a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from U of I. She continued her love of learning with several Osher Institute courses at Eckerd College. Shirley was a master teacher and educational leader- whose gifts helped hundreds of children, teachers and administrators to realize their own potential as learners, teachers and leaders. All who knew Shirley were blessed to experience her deep caring, her curiosity and drive to keep learning and exploring, her love of language, sense of humor, appreciation of nature and her keen wit. Most of all, Shirley was unfailingly positive, devoted to God’s plan and filled the world with laughter and fun.

She will be sorely missed, but always present in laughter and inspiration, by her husband, Mardell Parker, daughters Susan (Gale England) of Salem, Missouri, Shana (Tom Benson) of Bloomington, Illinois, Stacy (Charlie Fisher) of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Sally of Homewood, Illinois and Sarah (Frank Melchiore) of Tierra Verde, Florida, grandchildren Zach, Isaac, Seth, Joel, Ross, Lucas and Stacy, and great grandchild Maia. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Dorothy and two great grandchildren, Maks and Luka, with whose spirits she is now joined. She has been cared for at home with love and warmth by Kathy Nirschel and Debra Linney, and has enjoyed a lifelong special friendship with Shirley Guffey of Tampa. Thank you, Lord, for Shirley Jean Parker!

A celebration of Shirley’s life is planned for March 9th, at Fort Desoto Park, Tierra Verde, Florida in Pavilion 2, from 4-6pm.  Bring a memory or special story to share! Condolences can be made through Stacy Parker-Fisher at sparkerfisher@gmail.com.

Don L. Bregger

Don Leonard Bregger, 89, passed away peacefully Wednesday, February 8th, 2017 at home in Bangor.  He was born August 23rd, 1927 on the family farm that he eventually owned and operated until his retirement.  He also worked as a rural route mail carrier, in his later years.  He received his degree in horticulture in 1948 at Michigan State University.  He loved bowling, golfing, playing cards, and watching all sports.  He was an avid fan of the Spartans as well as Chicago Bears and Cubs.  He was fortunate to be able to follow his beloved Cubbies to a World Series championship.  Other interests included Civil War history and music.  His musical tastes ranged from classical to country and bluegrass.  Don and Martha were in frequent attendance at the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra. Don was an extremely social person and loved to engage in a good argument with all his friends.  He was a member of the People’s Unitarian Church in Kalamazoo as well as many civic organizations, including: Jaycees, Lions, Elks, Moose and the Bangor Historical Society.

He is survived by his wife Martha (Watkins) of 60 years, daughters Lisa (Allen Janusz) Bregger of Hopland, CA, and Vicki (Rob) Seth of Plainwell, MI; sons Louis Bregger of Bangor and Rob (Linda) Bregger of Muskego, WI; Sisters Doris Finn of Midland, MI, Alice (Ray) Steinbach of Chelsea, MI, and Lois (John) Verdonk of Bangor, MI. As well as seven grandchildren: Nia, Sonja, Arjuna, Aaron, Alex, Hannah and Steven and four great grandchildren: Ocean, River, Forrest, and Fiona. He was preceded in death by his brother Allan (Betty) Bregger and his brother-in-law Jack Finn.

Don (and Martha) received extensive support from the caring staff of hospice.  The family suggests those wishing to honor Don’s memory, make a donation in his name to the Great Lakes Caring Hospice Foundation (www.GreatLakesCaring.com). Arrangements were handled by Avink Funeral Home in Schoolcraft.  Kindly share your thoughts and memories of Don on Avink’s online guest book at www.avinkcremation.com.

Deante Otis Stormer

Deante Otis Stormer, age 35

of Bangor passed away Sunday, February 12, 2017 at his home in Flint. Deante "Dee" was born March 15, 1981 in Pomona, CA and spent his early years in Riverside and Moreno Valley, CA the son of Theodis Stormer and Beverly Walker. He moved to Bangor during middle school and graduated from Bangor Public Schools in 2000. He took pride in his job at Menards in South Haven and Flint  and received many awards including manager of the year in 2016. Dee is an example of how you can turn your life around and become a role model for others that face adversities. He loved his kids, playing Madden Football and the Indianapolis Colts. Surviving are his 5 children, Calisa, London, Deante Jr., Desirae, and Savannah Stormer; father, Theodis Stormer of South Haven; brother, Emmanuel Simmons of Pomona, CA; 3 sisters, Lakevia Stormer of Phoenix, AZ, Sharonda Stormer of Las Vegas, NV; special sister, LaToya (Terre) Haywood of Kalamazoo; 2 uncles, Joe Johnson Sr. of Bangor, JB Stormer of Cleveland, OH; and many other cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. The family will meet friends Friday, February 24, 2017 from 11 AM  until time of funeral service at 12:00 Noon at the New Jerusalem MB Church in Bangor with Pastor Dwayne Johnson officiating. Interment will follow in Monks Cemetery, Geneva Township. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

Robert N. Madison

Robert N. Madison, age 76, of Grand Junction, passed away Tuesday, February 14, 2017 at South Haven Health Systems.  Robert was born January 31, 1941 in Chicago, the son of Robert and Ruth Madison and had lived in the area for the past 51 years.  Robert enjoyed fishing and deer hunting.  Surviving are his 4 children, John Madison of South Haven, Jeanine (Richard) Langdon of Shallotte, NC, April Madison of South Haven and Dawn (Allen) Parsell of Paw Paw; grandchildren, Ryan Frisbie, Tracy Esparza, Jeremy Madison, Heather Budner, Megan Jelsomeno; great grandchildren, Kiara, Lily and Luke. 

He was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years Marlou. 

Following his wishes cremation has taken place.  No services are being scheduled at this time.  Arrangements by Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com. 



 

Week of Feb. 12

Jessica Elise Morris

Jessica Elise Morris, 39, of Holland, formerly of South Haven, passed away Saturday, February 4, 2017 at her home. She was born March 12, 1977 in West Palm Beach, Florida. Jessica graduated from South Haven High School with the class of 1995 where she was active in the high school band playing clarinet and later becoming drum major. She most recently worked as a waitress at Russ’ in Holland.

She is survived by her biological daughter – Chloe McNicholas of South Haven, parents – John (Yvonne) Morris of Florida and Sharon (Ken) McNicholas of South Haven, and sister – Jennifer (Guy) Eltzroth of South Haven.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 PM on Thursday, February 9, 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home with Rev. Jeffrey S. Dick officiating. Contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, 2451 Crystal Drive, Suite 900, Arlington, VA 22202. 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, 637-0333.

Carl E. Soristo Jr.

Carl E. Soristo Jr., age 79 of South Haven passed away Saturday February 4, 2017 at Serenity of South Haven.  Carl was born August 13, 1937 in South Haven, the son of Carl and Faye Soristo and had lived in South Haven his entire life.  Carl honorably served his country as a member of the US Navy.  He worked until retirement as a machinist for the Whirlpool Corporation. 

Surviving are his 2 sons, Carl and Chuck (Maria); 3 grandchildren, Charles, Ashley and Nicolas; sister, Carolyn Brinks and sister, Pat.

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Billy, Alice, Donna and Wava.

Following his wishes cremation has taken place.  Inurnment will take place in Lakeview Cemetery at a later date.  Arrangements by, Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com. 

John Driver

John Driver, age 91, passed away at his South Haven home Feb. 5, 2017. He was born Dec. 13, 1925 in Missouri.

John worked for Whirlpool as a painter for 36 years from 1981 to 2014. John and his wife, Carole, were co-owners of Phoenix Inn.

Early in life, John spent time with family and friends working on cars, playing pool and softball, building, gardening, traveling and going to casinos. Later, he loved to bird watch and play with his cats.

Best of all, he loved the grandkids visiting so he could teach them to drive tractor, race the mule against the golf carts, garden, play pool and ball, and cook.

Surviving John is his wife, Carole; sister Violet McBride of Flint; children: Loretta (Bruce) Weidler of St. Joseph, Dan (Vickie) Driver, Brenda (Mike) Main of Florida and Marilyn Dodson of South Haven. Also, seven grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren survive.

He was preceded in death by his son, Phil Driver; sister, Mary Blair and brother, Tom Mitchell.

Friends can join in a celebration of life to be held at the Scott Club, corner of Phoenix and Pearl streets in South Haven, Mich., on Feb. 18 from 11 a.m. To 3 p.m.

William "Bill" George Sutter

William “Bill” George Sutter, age 73 of Grand Junction, passed away Tuesday, February 7, 2017 at his home. Bill was born Aug. 7, 1943 in Oak Park, IL, the son of Jacob "Jack" and Lillian (Bargeman) Sutter, and has lived the majority of his life in the Grand Junction area. He loved camping and feeding the animals. Surviving are his wife, Donna, who he married June 14, 1980; 3 sons, Richard Sutter of Muskegon, Craig (Adrienne) Wood of Kalamazoo, Scott (Linnea) Wood of Portage; 4 grandchildren, Devon, Sylvia, Nia, Leara; sister, Dorothy Lux of South Sioux City, NB; brother, Robert (Carrie) Sutter of Grand Junction; many nieces and nephews; and his best buddy Jack. According to his wishes, cremation has taken place and no services will be held at this time.  Arrangements by the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home.

George Norman “Norm” Love

George Norman “Norm” Love, 85, of South Haven, passed away Monday, February 6, 2017 at his home surrounded by his family, under Hospice care. He was born November 11, 1931 to George and Nora (Willerton) Love in Berlamont, Michigan. Norm married Shirley Banaszak on August 1, 1964 in South Haven and shared 51 years of marriage before her passing in 2015. Norm worked in tool and die at DuWel for many years before his eventual retirement in 1988. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting just about anything and fishing wherever they were biting. He especially loved his hunting and fishing trips to Canada. Norm also enjoyed watching westerns, NASCAR and boxing.

He is preceded in death along with his parents and wife, by a daughter – Laurie Ann Love who passed in 1967 and sister – Sarah Jewell.

Norm is survived by his children – Linda (Bud) McElyea of Kennett, Missouri, Randy (Kim Rhives) Love of Richwoods, Missouri, Pam (Ken) Goff of South Haven, and Kim (Gil Logan) Love of Coloma. Twelve grandchildren and two great grandchildren also survive. And his trusty companions, Ivory and Puss-Puss, who were always by his side.

A graveside memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, March 7, 2017 with Pastor Eric Jarvis officiating at the Grand Junction Cemetery. Contributions may be made in Norm’s memory to the 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 of South Haven, 637-0333.

Wilbur “Wib” Vickrey Lynam

Wilbur “Wib” Vickrey Lynam, 95, of South Haven, passed away Tuesday, February 7, 2017 at the Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community in South Haven. He was born May 26, 1921 to Wilbur and Glenna (Vickrey) Lynam in Renssealaer, Indiana. Wilbur served his country in the Army Air Corps during World War II. Wilbur married Dorothy Westergren on January 25, 1947 and shared 68 years of marriage before her passing in 2015. Wilbur worked for Hilltop Orchards and then for South Haven’s Board of Public Utilities as a Utilities Comptroller. At one time, Wilbur was the acting city manager. He worked for the city for many years before retiring in 1987. He loved sitting on his front porch and meeting new people. Wilbur was an avid reader and loved finishing jigsaw puzzles. He was a member of the First Congregational Church in South Haven and the South Haven Rotary Club where he was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow.

He is preceded in death along with his parents and wife by a grandson – Alex Lynam and sister – Dorothy Stevens.

Wilbur is survived by his children – David (Janet) Lynam of South Haven and Ken (Nancy) Lynam of Dunedin, Florida, grandchildren – Eric, Jaime, and Jessica (Andrew Cifaldi) Lynam, and five great grandchildren – Aiden Lynam, Tyus and Laina Panek, and Xander and Remy Cifaldi.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Sunday, February 12, 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Memorial services will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday, February 13, 2017 at the funeral home with Rev. Jeffrey S. Dick officiating. Wilbur will be laid to rest in Lakeview Cemetery. Contributions may be made in Wilbur’s memory to the First Congregational Church, 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, 269- 637-0333.
1076 S. Bailey Ave. South Haven, MI 49090.



Week of Feb. 19

Shirley Jean Parker

Shirley Jean Parker passed away on February 8, 2017. Shirley was an intrepid and inspirational woman- a partner to her husband Mardell for 65 years, a mother to five daughters, Grandmom to 7 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Shirley was born November 10, 1927 to Meta and Albert Briere. She grew up in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and later moved to Moline Illinois. After she and Mardell were married, they lived in Park Forest and Homewood, Illinois, moving to South Haven, Michigan in 1985. In 1999, Mardell and Shirley moved to Tierra Verde, Florida where they enjoyed fishing, biking, the beautiful environment and fun times with family and friends. Shirley loved learning and was tenacious in earning a degree in Education from the University of Illinois during difficult times. She later earned a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from U of I. She continued her love of learning with several Osher Institute courses at Eckerd College. Shirley was a master teacher and educational leader- whose gifts helped hundreds of children, teachers and administrators to realize their own potential as learners, teachers and leaders. All who knew Shirley were blessed to experience her deep caring, her curiosity and drive to keep learning and exploring, her love of language, sense of humor, appreciation of nature and her keen wit. Most of all, Shirley was unfailingly positive, devoted to God’s plan and filled the world with laughter and fun.

She will be sorely missed, but always present in laughter and inspiration, by her husband, Mardell Parker, daughters Susan (Gale England) of Salem, Missouri, Shana (Tom Benson) of Bloomington, Illinois, Stacy (Charlie Fisher) of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Sally of Homewood, Illinois and Sarah (Frank Melchiore) of Tierra Verde, Florida, grandchildren Zach, Isaac, Seth, Joel, Ross, Lucas and Stacy, and great grandchild Maia. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Dorothy and two great grandchildren, Maks and Luka, with whose spirits she is now joined. She has been cared for at home with love and warmth by Kathy Nirschel and Debra Linney, and has enjoyed a lifelong special friendship with Shirley Guffey of Tampa. Thank you, Lord, for Shirley Jean Parker!

A celebration of Shirley’s life is planned for March 9th, at Fort Desoto Park, Tierra Verde, Florida in Pavilion 2, from 4-6pm.  Bring a memory or special story to share! Condolences can be made through Stacy Parker-Fisher at sparkerfisher@gmail.com.

Don L. Bregger

Don Leonard Bregger, 89, passed away peacefully Wednesday, February 8th, 2017 at home in Bangor.  He was born August 23rd, 1927 on the family farm that he eventually owned and operated until his retirement.  He also worked as a rural route mail carrier, in his later years.  He received his degree in horticulture in 1948 at Michigan State University.  He loved bowling, golfing, playing cards, and watching all sports.  He was an avid fan of the Spartans as well as Chicago Bears and Cubs.  He was fortunate to be able to follow his beloved Cubbies to a World Series championship.  Other interests included Civil War history and music.  His musical tastes ranged from classical to country and bluegrass.  Don and Martha were in frequent attendance at the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra. Don was an extremely social person and loved to engage in a good argument with all his friends.  He was a member of the People’s Unitarian Church in Kalamazoo as well as many civic organizations, including: Jaycees, Lions, Elks, Moose and the Bangor Historical Society.

He is survived by his wife Martha (Watkins) of 60 years, daughters Lisa (Allen Janusz) Bregger of Hopland, CA, and Vicki (Rob) Seth of Plainwell, MI; sons Louis Bregger of Bangor and Rob (Linda) Bregger of Muskego, WI; Sisters Doris Finn of Midland, MI, Alice (Ray) Steinbach of Chelsea, MI, and Lois (John) Verdonk of Bangor, MI. As well as seven grandchildren: Nia, Sonja, Arjuna, Aaron, Alex, Hannah and Steven and four great grandchildren: Ocean, River, Forrest, and Fiona. He was preceded in death by his brother Allan (Betty) Bregger and his brother-in-law Jack Finn.

Don (and Martha) received extensive support from the caring staff of hospice.  The family suggests those wishing to honor Don’s memory, make a donation in his name to the Great Lakes Caring Hospice Foundation (www.GreatLakesCaring.com). Arrangements were handled by Avink Funeral Home in Schoolcraft.  Kindly share your thoughts and memories of Don on Avink’s online guest book at www.avinkcremation.com.

Deante Otis Stormer

Deante Otis Stormer, age 35

of Bangor passed away Sunday, February 12, 2017 at his home in Flint. Deante "Dee" was born March 15, 1981 in Pomona, CA and spent his early years in Riverside and Moreno Valley, CA the son of Theodis Stormer and Beverly Walker. He moved to Bangor during middle school and graduated from Bangor Public Schools in 2000. He took pride in his job at Menards in South Haven and Flint  and received many awards including manager of the year in 2016. Dee is an example of how you can turn your life around and become a role model for others that face adversities. He loved his kids, playing Madden Football and the Indianapolis Colts. Surviving are his 5 children, Calisa, London, Deante Jr., Desirae, and Savannah Stormer; father, Theodis Stormer of South Haven; brother, Emmanuel Simmons of Pomona, CA; 3 sisters, Lakevia Stormer of Phoenix, AZ, Sharonda Stormer of Las Vegas, NV; special sister, LaToya (Terre) Haywood of Kalamazoo; 2 uncles, Joe Johnson Sr. of Bangor, JB Stormer of Cleveland, OH; and many other cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. The family will meet friends Friday, February 24, 2017 from 11 AM  until time of funeral service at 12:00 Noon at the New Jerusalem MB Church in Bangor with Pastor Dwayne Johnson officiating. Interment will follow in Monks Cemetery, Geneva Township. www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

Robert N. Madison

Robert N. Madison, age 76, of Grand Junction, passed away Tuesday, February 14, 2017 at South Haven Health Systems.  Robert was born January 31, 1941 in Chicago, the son of Robert and Ruth Madison and had lived in the area for the past 51 years.  Robert enjoyed fishing and deer hunting.  Surviving are his 4 children, John Madison of South Haven, Jeanine (Richard) Langdon of Shallotte, NC, April Madison of South Haven and Dawn (Allen) Parsell of Paw Paw; grandchildren, Ryan Frisbie, Tracy Esparza, Jeremy Madison, Heather Budner, Megan Jelsomeno; great grandchildren, Kiara, Lily and Luke. 

He was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years Marlou. 

Following his wishes cremation has taken place.  No services are being scheduled at this time.  Arrangements by Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com. 



 Week of Feb. 12

Jessica Elise Morris

Jessica Elise Morris, 39, of Holland, formerly of South Haven, passed away Saturday, February 4, 2017 at her home. She was born March 12, 1977 in West Palm Beach, Florida. Jessica graduated from South Haven High School with the class of 1995 where she was active in the high school band playing clarinet and later becoming drum major. She most recently worked as a waitress at Russ’ in Holland.

She is survived by her biological daughter – Chloe McNicholas of South Haven, parents – John (Yvonne) Morris of Florida and Sharon (Ken) McNicholas of South Haven, and sister – Jennifer (Guy) Eltzroth of South Haven.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00 PM on Thursday, February 9, 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home with Rev. Jeffrey S. Dick officiating. Contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, 2451 Crystal Drive, Suite 900, Arlington, VA 22202. 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, 637-0333.

Carl E. Soristo Jr.

Carl E. Soristo Jr., age 79 of South Haven passed away Saturday February 4, 2017 at Serenity of South Haven.  Carl was born August 13, 1937 in South Haven, the son of Carl and Faye Soristo and had lived in South Haven his entire life.  Carl honorably served his country as a member of the US Navy.  He worked until retirement as a machinist for the Whirlpool Corporation. 

Surviving are his 2 sons, Carl and Chuck (Maria); 3 grandchildren, Charles, Ashley and Nicolas; sister, Carolyn Brinks and sister, Pat.

He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Billy, Alice, Donna and Wava.

Following his wishes cremation has taken place.  Inurnment will take place in Lakeview Cemetery at a later date.  Arrangements by, Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com. 

John Driver

John Driver, age 91, passed away at his South Haven home Feb. 5, 2017. He was born Dec. 13, 1925 in Missouri.

John worked for Whirlpool as a painter for 36 years from 1981 to 2014. John and his wife, Carole, were co-owners of Phoenix Inn.

Early in life, John spent time with family and friends working on cars, playing pool and softball, building, gardening, traveling and going to casinos. Later, he loved to bird watch and play with his cats.

Best of all, he loved the grandkids visiting so he could teach them to drive tractor, race the mule against the golf carts, garden, play pool and ball, and cook.

Surviving John is his wife, Carole; sister Violet McBride of Flint; children: Loretta (Bruce) Weidler of St. Joseph, Dan (Vickie) Driver, Brenda (Mike) Main of Florida and Marilyn Dodson of South Haven. Also, seven grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren survive.

He was preceded in death by his son, Phil Driver; sister, Mary Blair and brother, Tom Mitchell.

Friends can join in a celebration of life to be held at the Scott Club, corner of Phoenix and Pearl streets in South Haven, Mich., on Feb. 18 from 11 a.m. To 3 p.m.

William "Bill" George Sutter

William “Bill” George Sutter, age 73 of Grand Junction, passed away Tuesday, February 7, 2017 at his home. Bill was born Aug. 7, 1943 in Oak Park, IL, the son of Jacob "Jack" and Lillian (Bargeman) Sutter, and has lived the majority of his life in the Grand Junction area. He loved camping and feeding the animals. Surviving are his wife, Donna, who he married June 14, 1980; 3 sons, Richard Sutter of Muskegon, Craig (Adrienne) Wood of Kalamazoo, Scott (Linnea) Wood of Portage; 4 grandchildren, Devon, Sylvia, Nia, Leara; sister, Dorothy Lux of South Sioux City, NB; brother, Robert (Carrie) Sutter of Grand Junction; many nieces and nephews; and his best buddy Jack. According to his wishes, cremation has taken place and no services will be held at this time.  Arrangements by the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home.

George Norman “Norm” Love

George Norman “Norm” Love, 85, of South Haven, passed away Monday, February 6, 2017 at his home surrounded by his family, under Hospice care. He was born November 11, 1931 to George and Nora (Willerton) Love in Berlamont, Michigan. Norm married Shirley Banaszak on August 1, 1964 in South Haven and shared 51 years of marriage before her passing in 2015. Norm worked in tool and die at DuWel for many years before his eventual retirement in 1988. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting just about anything and fishing wherever they were biting. He especially loved his hunting and fishing trips to Canada. Norm also enjoyed watching westerns, NASCAR and boxing.

He is preceded in death along with his parents and wife, by a daughter – Laurie Ann Love who passed in 1967 and sister – Sarah Jewell.

Norm is survived by his children – Linda (Bud) McElyea of Kennett, Missouri, Randy (Kim Rhives) Love of Richwoods, Missouri, Pam (Ken) Goff of South Haven, and Kim (Gil Logan) Love of Coloma. Twelve grandchildren and two great grandchildren also survive. And his trusty companions, Ivory and Puss-Puss, who were always by his side.

A graveside memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, March 7, 2017 with Pastor Eric Jarvis officiating at the Grand Junction Cemetery. Contributions may be made in Norm’s memory to the 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 of South Haven, 637-0333.

Wilbur “Wib” Vickrey Lynam

Wilbur “Wib” Vickrey Lynam, 95, of South Haven, passed away Tuesday, February 7, 2017 at the Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community in South Haven. He was born May 26, 1921 to Wilbur and Glenna (Vickrey) Lynam in Renssealaer, Indiana. Wilbur served his country in the Army Air Corps during World War II. Wilbur married Dorothy Westergren on January 25, 1947 and shared 68 years of marriage before her passing in 2015. Wilbur worked for Hilltop Orchards and then for South Haven’s Board of Public Utilities as a Utilities Comptroller. At one time, Wilbur was the acting city manager. He worked for the city for many years before retiring in 1987. He loved sitting on his front porch and meeting new people. Wilbur was an avid reader and loved finishing jigsaw puzzles. He was a member of the First Congregational Church in South Haven and the South Haven Rotary Club where he was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow.

He is preceded in death along with his parents and wife by a grandson – Alex Lynam and sister – Dorothy Stevens.

Wilbur is survived by his children – David (Janet) Lynam of South Haven and Ken (Nancy) Lynam of Dunedin, Florida, grandchildren – Eric, Jaime, and Jessica (Andrew Cifaldi) Lynam, and five great grandchildren – Aiden Lynam, Tyus and Laina Panek, and Xander and Remy Cifaldi.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Sunday, February 12, 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Memorial services will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday, February 13, 2017 at the funeral home with Rev. Jeffrey S. Dick officiating. Wilbur will be laid to rest in Lakeview Cemetery. Contributions may be made in Wilbur’s memory to the First Congregational Church, 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, 269- 637-0333.
1076 S. Bailey Ave. South Haven, MI 49090.



Week of Jan. 22

Stefan “Steve” Brenner

Stefan “Steve” Brenner, 86, of South Haven, passed away Thursday, January 12, 2017 at the South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Community. He was born October 15, 1930 to Anton and Veronica (Schuventer) Brenner in Yugoslavia. Steve honorably served his country in the uNited States Army. Steve married Phyllis Prim on June 5, 1954 at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Chicago, Illinois. They shared 53 years of marriage until her passing in May of 2007.
He is preceded in death by his parents, wife – Phyllis Brenner, and siblings – Anton Brenner, Anna Savich, Rose Jovanic, and Frank Brenner.

Steve is survived by his children – Linda (Randy) Granber of South Haven and John (Amy) Brenner of Middletonn, Delaware, five grandchildren – Amanda (Rob) VanLoenen, Stephanie (John Barker) Grabner, Randall (Lindsay) Grabner, Johnny (Kelli) Brenner, and Jared Brenner, and four great grandchildren – Abigail, Benjamin, Aiden, and Raylind.
Visitation was held with a scripture service on Monday, January 16, 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 17, 2017 at the St. Basil Catholic Church. Steve was laid to rest next to his wife Phyllis at Monk Cemetery in Geneva Township. Contributions may be made in Steve’s memory to the Disabled American Veterans, P.O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, Ohio 45250, or the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8517 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.

Marsha Marie Uplinger

Marsha Marie Uplinger, 67, of Bangor, passed away Saturday, January 14, 2017 at the Bronson Methodist Hospital South Haven Campus. She was born February 13, 1949 to Ramona (Barringer) Schultz in South Haven. Marsha worked at Controlled Rubber and S.E. Overton in South Haven for several years before retiring to take care of her grandchildren. She enjoyed being with her grandchildren, playing the lotto, and going to yard sales. Marsha also enjoyed reading and finishing puzzles.

She is preceded in death by her father – Ellis Schultz, life-long companion – Robert McKinven, daughters – Kathy Marie Hood, Tracy Rene Sego, and Jodi Dawn Funk, and great grandson – Jonathon.

Marsha is survived by her children – Billie Jo Washegesic of Bangor, and Ronda (Bill) Lockwood of South Haven, mother – Ramona Shultz of South Haven, siblings – Lee (Sue) White, Kim (Brenda) Schultz, Clint (Kristin) Schultz, Jeanie (David) Cox, Beauton (Chris) Wark, and Peggy (Marty) Farrell all of South Haven. Ten grandchildren, thirteen great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews also survive.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Tuesday, January 17, 2017 at the Miracle Harvest Church in South Haven. Memorial services will follow visitation at 5:00 PM at the church with Pastor Tony Kuenzli 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.

James “Jim” Edward Carroll

James Edward Carroll “Jim”, 88, of Elgin, was born on August 10, 1928 in Chicago to James and Josephine (nee Kopfer) Carroll. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Monday, January 16, 2017 in Elgin.

Jim loved his family, dogs, driving a school bus, cowboy songs and the Wizard of Oz. In his spare time, he enjoyed EAA and travelling. Jim worked for United Airlines in aircraft maintenance at Midway and O’Hare airports until his retirement in 1987. He was loved and will be missed dearly.

He is survived by his wife, Janice (nee Wagenknecht) Carroll; his children, Jeannette (Dick) Hernacki, Pat (Debbie) Carroll, Sharon (Kevin) Hall, Todd (Michelle) Carroll, Mike Carroll, Bernadean Carroll, and Kelly Carroll; his grandchildren, Tammy, Pat, Jr., Renee, Chris, Jennifer, Hannah, Emma, and Tiffany; and six great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his son, Tim Carroll; and his parents.

Memorial visitation, 1pm until time of memorial service at 4:30pm, Sunday, January 22, 2017 at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave., Crystal Lake., IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Anderson Animal Shelter, 1000 S. LaFox, South Elgin, IL 60177 www.andersonanimalshelter.org or to a charity of your choice.

For information, please contact Davenport Family Funeral Home 815-459-3411. Online condolences can be given at www.davenportfamily.com.

Karen Sophia Bonin

Karen Sophia Bonin, born September 7, 1941 in Niles, Michigan, passed away peacefully in her Washington home on January 17, 2017. She was predeceased by her parents Kathryn and Ernest Barth and her daughter Shelley Bonin. She is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, Albert Bonin, her children, Susan (John) Olley of Washington Township, and Andrew Bonin of Chicago, Illinois. Also survived by her twin brother Carl Barth of Grover City, California. She is a treasured grandmother of Dominic, Breanna and Alyssa. Karen was a teacher in Romeo Community Schools for 27 years.  A memorial service in her memory will be held at a later date. 



Barbara Diane Urist Dakin

Barbara Diane (Urist) Dakin, 74, of Los Angeles, CA, passed away Friday, January 6, 2017, at her Silver Lake residence after a hard fought battle with pancreatic cancer. Born November 14, 1942, in South Haven, MI, she was the daughter of the late Dr. Martin J. Urist and Pearl Urist of South Haven, MI. She is survived by her three children, daughter Ruth Rabinowitz of Santa Cruz, CA; daughter Shauna Rabinowitz and son-in-law Tor Berg of Berkeley, CA; and daughter Diana Dakin of Los Angeles, CA. She will also be remembered by her two grandchildren whom she loved dearly: granddaughter Dakota Rabinowitz-Berg and grandson Ezra Rabinowitz-Berg. She was the loving big sister to surviving brothers Stewart Urist of Boston, MA, John Urist of Hawaii and George Urist of Tully, NY.

She is predeceased by her husband of 26 years, Robin M. Dakin, who passed away in December 2005. He was the yin to her yang and her partner on any dance floor that presented itself.

Inspired by her mother’s piano playing, she learned to play the piano starting at the age of four, and started cello lessons in junior high. Exceedingly bright and talented, she was the valedictorian of her class of 1960 at South Haven High School. Her love of music took her to the University of Michigan where she studied cello and graduated with a Bachelor’s in Music. After graduating she married David C. Rabinowitz of Camden, NJ, moved to Detroit and spent three years teaching inner-city children to play stringed music, until she became a mother to her baby girl, Ruth, born in 1968. In 1969, she moved with her new family to Phoenix, Arizona where they made newspaper headlines for their backyard organic garden. In 1970, she gave birth to her second daughter, Shauna. As her daughters grew, she grew, too, seeking spiritual fulfillment and finding a religion that struck a chord in her.

Barbara moved to Los Angeles in 1976, opening a new chapter in her life.

She dedicated herself to aiding in the spiritual health of friends and strangers alike using the principles of Scientology. In 1979, she met and married Robin Dakin, a church member and British-born mechanical engineer. In 1982 she welcomed her third daughter, Diana.

In 1989, Barbara and Robin founded the Silver Lake Improvement Association (SLIA) to take action against the gang activity that was flaring up in the Silver Lake area. She devoted herself full time to cleaning up the streets and building a coalition against drugs, crime and gangs. The SLIA exists to this day owing much gratitude to the hard work that she put into the now affluent neighborhood.

Barbara was presented with many awards in her lifetime for her outstanding work in the community. They include the 1990 Pioneer Woman of the Year by the City of Los Angeles, L.A. Pearls Senior Citizen of the Year in 2006 from the City Attorney’s Office and many more.

She was always many steps ahead of the rest of us – her pace was quick and tireless. She loved to garden and recently rekindled that love after removing her lawn and putting in California natives in the face of the drought. She had such pride in the lovely native plants that she grew in her front yard along with the birdbath she placed for the birds to enjoy.

She will be sorely missed by her community, her friends, and, most of all, her family who knew her stubborn strength, endless optimism and boundless energy. Her spirit continues to shine in all who found inspiration in her will.

A memorial service was held on January 21, 2017, in Los Angeles. Donations in Barbara’s memory can be made to Theodore Payne Foundation (www.theodorepayne.org) or the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (www.pancan.org) in her honor.

Alvin Everett Sisson

Alvin Everett Sisson, 85, of South Haven, Passed away Tuesday, January 17, 2017 at the Hanson Hospice Center in Saint Joseph Michigan. He was born August 25, 1931 to Cecil and

Linda (Burnham) Sisson in South Haven. Alvin worked at Epworth, Lovejoy, and Duwell for many years before his retirement. Later he worked as a security guard at Palisades Nuclear Plant. He was a skilled carpenter who built the home where he lived & retired, doing the work himself. He was also a skilled handyman who regularly repair cars and watches.

Alvin was very protective of his time. ‘His time’ was the time when he wasn’t working, taking care of family or doing errands. His time was best spent in his garage, his private little work shop, where he piddled with this and that; fixing this or that. He puttered with his many well used lawn mowers. The mowers were in constant state of repairing, rebuilding or, in some cases, ‘recycling.’

He always seemed to have time to ‘drown’ a worm as he called it. And in his earlier years many an inland lakes ‘called’ him often and he went often too. Some days there were fish to be had, sometimes a lot of fish, and other days, none. That didn’t matter; he was fishing.

Alvin had an ever abiding love for rabbits. He especially liked those wild Cotton Tails that seem in endless supply flooding Michigan fields. He loved rabbits the most on the stove quietly simmering away on a cold winter afternoon.

Ma would ask, “Rabbit for supper?”

Alvin would look up for his ever present, dog eared western paper back and say, “I guess.”

And so it was.

On gloomy winter days a favorite past time was reading. Some of his favorite authors were Louis

L’Amour, Luke Short and Zane Gray. Their books were scattered around the house. Didn’t matter to him if he had read them once or twenty times, they were still good.

Country western music was a favorite of his too. Not the modern ‘rock a billy’ stuff but the older, more nostalgic variety. To the end he loved Johnny Cash’s “I walk the line.” But Hank Williams senior was OK, too, along with Slim Whitman, Gene Autry and the rest who never seem to go out of style with the folks. As for other music he would say he could take it or leave but mostly leave it.

He is preceded in death by his parents and Irene, his loving wife of 40 years. He is also preceded in death by his siblings; Ellen Rohn, Norman, Ward, Juanita McCune, Marion Harris, Cecil, Naida Wycoff.

Alvin is also survived by James his last surviving sibling, his children; Cecil and Cecilia (Crawford) Sisson of Liberty, Missouri; Micheal and Marian (Long) of South Haven; Eric and Irene (Sisson) McQueen of South Haven. Alvin is survived by five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held sometime in the Spring. Alvin will be laid to rest a Lakeview Cemetery in South Haven, MI next to his beloved wife, Irene. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

Christine Holling

Christine Holling was born to the late Moses and Betty Armstrong, on March 25, 1934 in Senatobia, Mississippi. She moved to Covert, MI, where she attended Covert High School and met James Holling Jr.. On August 8, 1957 they were married. Christine committed 26 years of hard work to the South Haven Rubber Company, until retirement.

Christine devoted her life to God at a very young age, and his presence in her life was always evident. She became an Eastern Star in 1955. Christine was a kind, gentle, and caring woman who loved to cook and feed anyone possible. A nurturing mother and a sweet and funny grandmother, Christine was adored by her family. In addition to their own, Mr. and Mrs. Holling were foster parents who loved, cared for, and helped raise more than 70 young people. Their heartfelt compassion for others was amazing!

In 2006 Christine moved to Detroit, MI and then to Louisville, KY in 2014. Everyone who met Ms. Holling loved her!

She is preceded in death by her husband, James Holling Jr., parents Mr. and Mrs. Armstrong, three sisters Mary Lou, Erna Mae, and Maggie Ester, and three brothers Beamie, Eugene, and Melvin.

Christine leaves to cherish her memories two sisters, Pattie Mae Newell and Estella Young, three sons; James (Dawne) Holling of New Mexico, Kevin (Rebecca) Holling Sr. of Oklahoma, and Rocky Holling of Michigan, two daughters; Blanche Renee’ (Tony) Foster of Kentucky, and Deborah Wilson of Louisiana. Respected as son Andre’ (Shanna) of California, grandchildren; LaTisha, LaQuita, Christopher (Shantel), Tameka (Otis II), James (Shondeen), Nakesha (Christopher), Nacoya, Ciara, Tony, Anthony, Tashawna, D’Anthony, Kevin Jr. (Marcy), Natasha, Kareesha, Tekiya, Karrisa, 22 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and beloved friends.

Wake was held from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM on Friday, January 20, 2017 at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home and from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Saturday, January 21, 2017 at the Trinity Missionary Baptist Church in South Haven Township. Funeral services followed the wake on Saturday at 12:00 PM with Pastor Andre Love II officiating. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.