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Obituaries in 2005
Hartford Michigan |
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Click here to return to the to Obituary
Index
Please email the webmaster if you have obituaries of
people who have lived in Hartford Michigan, or was active
in the Hartford community, at some time during their lives.
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left menu of every page. The Obituary section was started January 30,
2008 and current obituaries will be posted as they become available.
Obituaries are from the local newspapers, unless otherwise noted.
If you have an obituary notice of a former Hartford resident from a
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Sefcik, 59320 62nd St., Hartford MI 49057.
Many requests are made for obituary notices and this
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Email the webmaster with any correction of errors that may have
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Alice G. Rush,
95, of Hartford passed away from her life on earth to eternity in
heaven on Sunday, Dec. 11, 2005, at South Haven Community Hospital.
Alice was born on Aug. 14, 1910, in Chicago, the daughter of John
and Julia (Krisan) Siebert, both of whom preceded her in death.
Alice was a member of the Hartford Senior Mother’s Club and the Van
Buren County Historical Society. In her spare time she would make
quilts of all sizes and then sell them at the annual Hartford United
Methodist Church bazaar. She would then donate her profit to the
church.
As to his wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service
to honor her memory
will take place on Thursday, Dec. 29, at 3 p.m. at the Calvin
Funeral Home; Hartford. The Rev. Ronald Hansen of the Hartford
United Methodist Church will officiate. In lieu of flowers,
donations may be made to the Hartford United Methodist Church or to
the donor’s choice.
Alice is survived by her daughter, Jean (Harold Jr.) Walker of
Hartford, June (Richard) Walker of South Bend, Ind., Ruth (Vik)
Malling of Stoughton, Wis., and Denise (Richard) Fuller of Hartford.
She is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 18 greatgrandchildren.
Besides her parents, Alice was preceded in death by her husband,
Donald Rush, in 1974; daughters, Karen Rush in 1959 and Donna
Hoover, in 2005; and one grandson.
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Mark Alan Olds,
54, of Hartford, went to be with the Lord on Dec. 1, 2005. Mark was
born on April 11, 1951, in
Watervliet.
Mark’s greatest love was his family. He was his
children’s biggest fan, attending all of their sporting events. When
he wasn’t in the stands, you could find him working in the yard or
on his next home improvement project. He was also an avid CocaCola
collector. Mark never met a stranger and his sense of humor,
kindness and concern for others made an impact on many lives. He was
a graduate of Hartford High School and Southwestern Michigan
College. He was a member
of the Hartford Federated Church.
Mark is survived by his wife, Linda, of 32 years; three
children — Lindsay, Matt and Jamin; his mother, Barbara Olds;
sister, Holly (Bill) Kays; and brother, Todd (Fran) Olds.
He was preceded in death by his father, Lawrence Olds.
A service celebrating his life will be held at 2 p.m.
on Sunday, Dec. 4, at the Hartford Federated Church with Pastor
Timothy Nyhuis officiating. As an expression of sympathy, memorial
contributions may be directed to the Mayo Foundation or the Hartford
Athletic Department. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral
Home, Hartford, in handling the arrangements.
NOTE: Mark was a 1969
Hartford High School graduate.
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Marilyn
Jeanne Rhodes, 73, of Paw Paw, passed away on Thursday
afternoon, Nov. 10, 2005, at Heartland Nursing
Home
in Kalamazoo.
Marilyn was born March 29, 1932, in Hartford, daughter
of the late Pearl and Lela (Challams) Myers.
She was a
1950 graduate of
Hartford High School. Marilyn entered Borgess School of
Nursing in the fall of 1950 and completed her nursing school in the
summer of 1953. In May 1953 she married Bill Rhodes in Long Beach,
Calif. She returned home, completed nursing school, and became the
office nurse for Dr. Paul Boothby. Upon Bill’s return, from the
Navy, they settled in Paw Paw and raised five children. Marilyn not
only raised her family, but found time to work as a nurse in Long
Beach Hospital in California, Lake View Hospital in Paw Paw and at
the Paw Paw Medical Group. She also found time to work with scouts
and sports groups in Paw Paw. No one washed more uniforms than
Marilyn did.
Marilyn is survived by her husband, Bill, of 52 years;
and children – Greg (Barb), Randy (Sue), Brent (Pam), Brad (Sue) and
Tara Lynn. This family produced the dirty dozen, twelve of the best
grandkids in town, including Katie (Will) of Indianapolis, Travis,
Sarah, Sierra, Tyler, Zach, Megan, Chelsey, Jake, Luke, Nick and
Audrey, all of the Paw Paw and Mattawan area. She is also survived
by sisters-in-law, Alleyne Myers, Mary Ann Evans and Carol Rhodes;
and brothers-in-law, Donald Drake, Gene Rhodes and Jim Evans; and
many nieces, nephews and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Joyce
(Don) Drake and Beverly Myers, and a brother, Norman Myers, all of
Hartford.
Family will receive mends from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m.
Sunday at the Adams Funeral Home, Paw Paw, where funeral services
will be held at 11 a.m. Monday with the Rev. Bob Lynch officiating.
Interment will be in Wildey Cemetery, Paw Paw. Memorial
contributions may be made to Hospice of Van Buren County, Parkinson
Disease Association, Alzheimer’s Association or the Paw Paw United
Methodist Church. Share a memory or condolence on line at:
www.timeformemory.comladams.
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William Norton Dyer, lifelong Hartford
resident, succumbed to a yearlong battle with leukemia on November 26,
2005. Bill, born to Raymond and Myrtle Dyer on
March 22, 1928, passed
away at his home on Pinery Road in Hartford Township. Virginia (Steinhauser),
his wife of 54 years, was at his side. They were married in Mishawaka,
Indiana, on October 16, 1951.
Bill
established himself as an individual with a wide variety of interests
beginning with his school years at Hartford High School. He not only
excelled as a multi-sport athlete but entered a lifetime avocation as a
talented musician, a drummer, graduating from HHS in
1946.
Before and
after a two year stint in the
U.S. Army during the Korean War, he became associated with several
area musical groups – the Melville Brothers Band, the Four Sharps Dance
Band, the Aristocrats, the Blue Aces, to mention a few. Bill was also an
important member of the Hartford Alumni Band in recent years.
After
returning from his military assignment as a supply sergeant at Camp Haugan
in Japan, he entered a lifetime employment with the U.S. Postal Service.
Bill eventually rose to the position of Postmaster in Hartford and retired
from that office in 1983.
Bill
and Virginia enjoyed traveling during their vacation times, journeying to
such faraway destinations as Mexico, Alaska, and Las Vegas. During the
last few years, the Dyers particularly enjoyed the company of their
beloved granddaughter, Krystal, on these trips. Another aspect of their
travels were memorable camping trips to Mackinaw, Pennsylvania, and other
locales. The Dyers were particularly interested in searching for covered
bridges and other historical locations.
Bill
served the Hartford community as a member of the school board, the
Hartford Township Zoning Board, Fruitbelt Credit Union Board, Cub
Scoutmaster, and Little League coach highlighting his colorful career.
One aspect of his talents were his donations of group and individual
photographs for various Hartford groups. Most recently, he has provided
assistance to Emma Thornburg Sefcik and her work with the Hartford Web
Site. Privately, he enjoyed working on the Dyer family genealogy and
collecting stamps and antiques.
In
addition to his wife, Virginia, Bill is survived by a son, Jamie John
Dyer, his daughter-in-law, Carol (Whiteman), and granddaughter, Krystal
Marie, of Portage, Michigan. He is also survived by a brother, Robert,
and sister-in-law, Eleanor, of St. Joseph, and a sister, Nancy, and
brother-in-law, George Huffman, of Hartford. He is also survived by
numerous nieces and nephews. Special mention is made of the two family
pets and companions; Shelby, a Lab-Chow mix, and Jack, a Jack Russell
terrier.
Bill’s
parents, Myrtle and
Raymond Dyer, have both passed away.
Note:
Click
here to view Bill’s military photo and picture.
Click here to view a later
picture of Bill and his family.
Bill made many contributions to the History of Hartford Military
section. Much of the information shown on this website would not
have been available so quickly (or at all) without his persistence
and legwork. We are all enriched because of his dedication to the
preservation of the History of Hartford.
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Mary "Pat" Lee,
63 of Hartford, passed away at her home on Sunday, Sept. 25, 2005,
after fighting a courageous battle against Huntington’s disease. She
was preceded in death by John Lee, her husband of 47 years.
She was born in Leoma, Tenn., on June 16, 1942, to
Ezekiel and Edna Sanders. She was wed on Jan. 10, 1958, and leaves
two children, John and Rebecca, three grandchildren, Andrew, Daniel
and Samantha, two great-grandchildren, Kayla and Gage; also a
brother, James (Betty) Sanders in Leoma; two sisters, Betty Rosson
of Leoma, and Kathrine (Gerry) Morin of New Boston.
Besides her parents and husband, she was also preceded
in death by her sister, Faye Smith, and brother, John Sanders.
A service to honor her memory will take place at 2 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 1, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford.
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Homer Andrew Jackson,
88 of Hartford passed away from his life on earth to eternity in
heaven on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2005, at Lake View Continuing Care
Center, Lawton.
Homer was born on March 12, 1917, in Rector, Ark., the
son and last survivor of six children born to William and Bessie
(Hall) Jackson, both of whom preceded him in passing. He grew up in
Holcomb, Mo., where he started as center on the local basketball
team. It was there where he met and married his wife, Thelma. They
celebrated 66 years of marriage in August.
Homer worked for
20-plus years at the Watervliet Paper Company, where he made many
lasting friendships. He
retired as Superintendent of the Public Works Department in Hartford
in 1982. He loved the City of Hartford and his home, where he
spent many hours puttering in his yard and workshop. Homer dearly
loved the many hours he spent with his grandchildren.
The family will greet friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday,
Sept. 23, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. A private graveside
service to honor his memory will take place on Saturday, Sept. 24,
at Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, the family
wishes memorials be made to Lake View Continuing Care Center, 99
Walker St., Lawton, Mich. 49065 or to the donor’s choice.
Homer is survived by his wife, Thelma; sons, Bill
(Shirley) of Hartford, Dwayne (Claudia) of Garland, Texas;
granddaughter, Amy Lynn (Aaron) Trombley of Albany, Ga.; grandsons,
Christopher, Kevin and Phillip of Wolcott, N.Y.; a lovely
great-granddaughter, Alyssa of Wolcott, N.Y.; and numerous nieces
and nephews.
Besides his parents, Homer was preceded in death by his
sisters, Virginia Brown, Marie Parker, Pauline Paskel, Nellie
Deweese; and a brother, Eugene.
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Marybelle G. Reed – A memorial service for Ms.
Marybelle G. Reed, 84, of Leesburg, Florida, who passed away
September 18, 2005 will be held at Florida National Cemetery in
Bushnell, Florida, on October 7, 2005 at 2:00 p.m.
Ms. Reed was born
in
Hartford Surname Board
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Hartford, Michigan, and came to this area from Kalamazoo,
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Michigan in 1979. She was a Catholic, registered nurse,
elementary school teacher, and a former
Lieutenant in the United States Navy.
Survivors include
one daughter, Teresa (Tim) O’Connor of Jacksonville, Florida; two
sons, James and Patrick Quade, both of Ocklawaha, Florida; one
brother, William Galbreath of Stevensville, Michigan; three
grandchildren, Sean and Erin O’Connor and Shannon Quade; one
great-grandson, Timothy O’Connor, 5 nephews and 2 nieces. She was
predeceased by her husband, M. Allyn Reed. In lieu of flowers,
please plant a shrub or flowers in her memory.
Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 9/23/2005.
Marybelle was a
1937
Hartford High School graduate.
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Ruth
Christine Bolton, 76, of Hartford, passed away from her
life on earth to eternity in heaven, after a lengthy illness on
Sunday, Sept. 18, 2005, at Borgess Nursing Home, Kalamazoo.
Ruth was born on Sept. 4, 1929, in Nauvoo, Ala., the
daughter of Clyde and Zoda (Baughn) Crane, both of whom precede her
in passing. Ruth was a simple lady who just loved to spend time with
her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
The family will
greet friends from 1 to 3 p.m. on Thursday at the Calvin Funeral
Home, Hartford, where the service to honor her memory will take
place at 3 p.m. with Pastor Timothy Nyhuis of the Hartford Federated
Church officiating. Memorials in her memory can be made to the
Borgess Visiting Nurse and Hospice.
Ruth is survived by four grandchildren, Jeff (Rhonda)
Smallwood of Statesville, N.C., Anna (Jay) Alexander of Byron, Ill.,
Michelle (Michael) Diebold of Hartford and Christopher (Christina)
Hardy of St. Joseph. Ruth is also survived by 10
great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild; and two sisters,
Thella Kennedy of Madison, Ala., and Myra Ream of Veneta, Ore.
Besides her parents, Ruth was preceded in death by her
daughter, Martha Jo Crane on Aug. 31, 1989; three sisters, Thelma K.
Crane, Nellie Rowell and Florence Crane; and four brothers, Lester
Ray Crane, Wesley Tittle, Lawrence Crane and Albert Hollis.
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Kern Ward Fischer, 53, of Hartford, passed
away suddenly from his life on earth to eternity in heaven on
Saturday, Sept. 17, 2005, at his home.
Kern was born on July 7, 1952, in Watervliet, the son
of Warren "Buck" and Belva (Burr) Fischer, both of whom preceded
him in passing. He was formerly
employed by the City of Hartford. He enjoyed hunting,
fishing and drumming.
A memorial service to
honor his memory will take place at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 23, at
the Hartford Federated Church with Pastor Timothy Nyhuis
officiating.
Kern is survived in passing by five brothers, Louie
(Sharon) Fischer of Decatur, Clair (Carlean) Bullard of Malden,
Mo., Kirke (Jane) Roraback of Moulton, Ala., David (Joyce) Fischer
of Grand Rapids and Allen Fischer of Holland; nieces, Stacy (Phil)
Arens of Zeeland, Regina Bullard of Malden, Mo., Heather Roraback
of Moulton, Ala., Linda (John) Goff of Holland and Diane Fischer
of Hamilton; and nephews, Matthew Fischer of Decatur, Chris
Minderman and T. (Lisa) Minderman, both of Malden, Mo., Paul (Terisa)
Roraback of Moulton, Ala., John Henry Fischer of Grand Rapids, Don
Fischer of Hamilton, Jack (Jenni) Fischer of Holland and Jeff
Fischer of Comstock Park.
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Shelley
Elaine Mathis, 24, of Coloma passed
away suddenly on Saturday, Sept. 3, 2005.
Shelley was born Nov. 11, 1980, in Batesville, Ark., to
James and Dale (Ramer) Mathis. She was a
1999 graduate of
Hartford High School and enjoyed spending
time with her friends and family.
Preceding
Shelley was her father, James Mathis; and her paternal grandparents,
J.R. and Ovie Collins. Shelley is survived by her mother; her
sister, Andrea Mathis of Coloma; her brother, Jason (Jennifer)
Mathis of Coloma; her maternal grandparents, Donald and Charlotte
Ramer of Niles; her two nieces, Chloe and Hannah Mathis of Coloma;
and her nephew, James Mathis of Coloma; many aunts, uncles, and
cousins.
Services will be held at 4 p.m. today, Sept. 8, at
Mission Hills Memorial Chapel located at 61453 M-51 Niles, with
visitation one hour prior. An interment will follow at Mission
Hills. Arrangements have been entrusted to Mission Hills Memorial
Chapel, Crematory and Gardens and also Brown Funeral Home and
Cremation Services, Niles.
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Irene Minnie Ison, 92, of Hartford passed away from
her life on earth to eternity in heaven on Thursday, Sept. 1, 2005,
at Rose Arbor Hospice House, Kalamazoo.
Irene was born on Sept. 24, 1912, in Coloma, the
daughter of Albert and Ermina (Holmes) McComb, both of whom preceded
her in passing. On May 14, 1951, she married Edwin Ison and was a
loving and devoted wife for some 54 years.
As to her
wishes, there will be no visitation and a graveside service to honor
her memory will take place at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 5, at the Maple
Hill Cemetery, Hartford. The Rev. Elvin Nyhuis, visitation pastor at
the Hartford Federated Church, will officiate.
Irene is survived by her husband,
Edwin; six
nieces, Shirley Berg of St. Joseph, Carri Rhinehart of Palm Bay,
Fla., Irene Morris of Staffordsville, Ky., Sandy Miller of New
Carlisle, Ind., Evelyn Brown of Coldwater and Loretta Treadwell of
Phoenix, Ariz.; and two nephews, Richie Rhinehart of Sierra Vista,
Ariz., and Ronnie Rhinehart of Hartford.
Besides her parents, Irene was preceded by a sister,
Bertha Christensen; and four brothers, George,
Buster, Raymond and Robert McComb.
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William Joseph Tikal,
91 of Niles, formerly of Hartford, passed away from his life on
earth to eternity in heaven on Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2005, at Lakeland
Hospital, Niles.
William was born on Aug. 10, 1914, in Chicago, the son
of Joseph and Helen (Strauss) Tikal, both of whom preceded him in
passing. William served his country during World War II in the CCC,
which was a branch of the Army started in the 1930s by then
President Roosevelt. He retired from New Products Corporation of
Benton Harbor in 1979. William was an avid woodworker and loved to
go camping.
As to his
wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial graveside service
to honor his memory will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 27, at
the Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Father Robert Flickinger of the
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Hartford, will officiate.
William is survived by his loving wife of 68 years,
Louise of Brentwood Assisted Living in Niles; a daughter, Joann
(Spike) LaVanway of Hartford; two grandchildren, Stacey (Don) Sage
of Watervliet and Todd LaVanway of Lawrence; three
great-grandchildren, Nicholas LaVanway, Chelsea Sage and Treven
Sage; and a sister, Margaret Mashak of Hartford.
Besides his parents, William was preceded in death by
two sisters, Mary Ann McVay and Josephine Mashak.
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Archimandrite Hilary
Madison, 76, a member of the brotherhood of Saint
Tikhon of Zadonsk Monastery, South Canaan, Pa., fell asleep in the
Lord early on the morning of Sunday, Aug. 14, 2005, at MidValley
Hospital in Pennsylvania.
Funeral services were held at the Monastery Church on
Aug. 16, and the Divine Liturgy was celebrated on Aug. 17 at the
church. Interment followed in the monastery cemetery.
Archimandrite Madison was born in South Bend, Ind., in
1929, the son of Charles and Mary (Ryan) Madison. He spent his
boyhood years in Bangor Township and attended the Bangor Center
School. In
1947, he
graduated from Hartford High School and then entered St.
Benedict’s Roman Catholic Abbey, Benet Lake, Wis., in 1948. After
his conversion to Orthodoxy in June 1954, he was ordained to the
diaconate and priesthood. In 1958, he was received into the
Metropolia and took up residence at Saint Tikhon of Zadonsk
Monastery, where he
was tonsured to Monastic orders.
Father Hilary served a number of parishes in
Pennsylvania, Vermont, Texas, California, Illinois and Kansas. For
a brief period, he served at Saint John the Theologian Retreat
Center, Hiram, Ohio. In 1981, he was attached to the Midwest
Diocesan Center and also served as priest-in-charge of Saint
Matthew Mission, Green Bay, Wis. In 1988, he was elevated to the
rank of Archimandrite. He served briefly as chancellor of the
Diocese of Midwest from 1992-1993 and then served as
priest-in-charge at Holy Assumption Monastery, Calistoga, Calif.,
until his retirement in 1996, when he returned to Saint Tikhon’s
Monastery.
Surviving are his stepparents, Earle and Mary Ida
Overton of Bangor; a brother, Tom Madison, and a sister, Marilyn
McNee, and their families; and many other relatives.
A memorial service and open house will be held for
family and friends from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 15, at the
home of Murl and Debbie Weber, 25960 CR 215, Bangor
PECKVILLE,
PA [OCA Communications] — Archimandrite Hilary
[Madison], 76, a member of the brotherhood of Saint Tikhon of
Zadonsk Monastery, South Canaan, PA, fell asleep in the Lord
early on the morning of Sunday, August 14, 2005, at Mid-Valley
Hospital here.
Born in South Bend, IN, in 1929, he entered St.
Benedict’s Roman Catholic Abbey, Benet Lake, WI, in 1948. After
his conversion to Orthodoxy in June 1954, he was ordained to the
diaconate and priesthood by the late Bishop Bogdan of the
Ukrainian Orthodox Church of America. In 1958, he was received
into the Metropolia and took up residence at Saint Tikhon of
Zadonsk Monastery. He was tonsured to monastic orders by the
late Metropolitan Leonty in March of the following year.
Father Hilary served a number of parishes, including
Saint John the Baptist Church, Mayfield, PA; Holy Trinity
Church, Springfield, VT; Saint John the Baptist Church, Dallas,
TX; Holy Virgin Mary Cathedral, Los Angeles, CA; Holy Trinity
Cathedral, Chicago; and Holy Trinity Church, Kansas City, KS.
For a brief period he served at Saint John the Theologian
Retreat Center, Hiram, OH.
In 1981, he was attached to the Midwest Diocesan
Center. He also served as priest-in-charge of Saint Matthew
Mission, Green Bay, WI. In 1988, he was elevated to the rank of
archimandrite.
Father Hilary also served briefly as chancellor of the
Diocese of the Midwest from 1992 until 1993, when he was
priest-in-charge at Holy Assumption Monastery, Calistoga, CA.
Upon his retirement from active service, he returned to Saint
Tikhon’s Monastery in 1996.
Funeral services will be held at the Monastery Church
of
Saint Tikhon of Zadonsk at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 16.
The Divine Liturgy will be celebrated in the monastery church at
9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 17. Interment will follow in the
monastery cemetery.
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Franklin "Frank" H. Ison –
Mr. Ison, 70, of Charlotte, passed away on August 5,
2005 at his residence.
Frank was born April 21, 1935 in Chicago, IL to the
late Norman and Helen Martin Ison. Frank grew up in Hartford,
Michigan and received his BS Degree from Western Michigan
University in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He served as a second
Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserves for 12 years. Frank worked as
an Information Systems Manager at General Motors in Anderson,
Indiana from 1961-1985. Frank and his family moved to Charlotte in
1986. He worked for Electronic Data Systems in Charlotte from 1986
until his retirement in 1996.
Frank’s hobbies and interests included spending time
with his grandchildren, exercising at the YMCA, golfing often
(accomplished a hole in one at the Charlotte Links), playing
billiards, trap shooting, and coaching youth league basketball and
baseball for both of his sons. Frank was also a computer
enthusiast and an avid Carolina Panthers fan.
He is survived by his wife of 44 years Jan Ison; his daughter Joy
Ison Wolaver and husband Tony and their children Luke and Lacey;
his son Cory Ison and his wife Rhonda and their children Cameron,
Kevin, and Kristen; his son Curt Ison and his wife Jennifer and
their children Kate and Alexander; and his sister Marcia
VanDrasek.
A memorial service will be held Sunday August 7, 2005
at 2:00 pm at McEwen Funeral Service, Pineville Chapel, 10500 Park
Road, Charlotte, with Msgr. McSweeney of St. Matthew Catholic
Church officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to
the St. Matthew Catholic Church, PO BOX 49349, Charlotte NC 28277,
Attention: Memorial. McEwen Funeral Service, Pineville Chapel is
assisting the Ison family.
Published in the Charlotte Observer on 8/6/2005.
NOTE:
Frank was a
1954 Hartford High School graduate
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Logan Witt – went
to be with the
Lord and other family members on Saturday; July 30, 2005 at
Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community.
Logan was born on September 17, 1926 in Rosemond, Ill.,
the first son of Howard and Grace
Witt. The family moved to
Hartford in 1927. Logan
graduated from Hartford High School in
1944.
He served two years in the
United States Army during the Korean War.
On January 30, 1954, he married Leota Fearnley and they
raised two sons: Jim (Diane)
Witt of Naperville, Ill. and John (Chris)
Witt of
Covert. They survive along with his 6 grandchildren: Sarah,
Logan, Adam, Cody, Annie and
Keenan, all of
Covert and a brother: Robert (Frances)
Witt of Urbana, Ill.
He was preceded in passing by his wife, Leota, on
November 11, 2004 and a brother, Harold
Witt.
Logan was a live stock farmer for most of his working
life. He also spent 42 years as a professional auctioneer. He was a
member of the
Hartford Federated Church and Gideon’s International, a past
member of both the
Michigan and National Auctioneers Association, as well as
several national live stock associations. Memorials may be made to
the
Hartford Federated Church, Gideon’s International, South
Haven Area Hospice or donor’s choice.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 P.M.,
Monday, August 1 at the Calvin Funeral Home,
Hartford. Services will be held at 11 A.M., Tuesday, August 2 at
the
Hartford Federated Church with
Pastor Timothy Nyhuis officiating. Burial will take place in
Maple Hill Cemetery,
Hartford.
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Wilford Paul
Day, 97, of Otsego, formerly of
Hartford, passed away from his life on earth to eternity in heaven
on Tuesday,
July
26, 2005, at the home of Sherri Brazill and Pattie McCreary, his
friends and caregivers with whom he resided for the past few years.
Paul, as he was known, was born Sept. 11, 1907, in
Hartford, the son of William and Katherine (Rice) Day, both of whom
preceded him in passing. He served in the Civil Air Patrol during
and after World War II as a search-and-rescue pilot. He was a
partner in Hilltop Orchards and Nursery. Paul won many awards,
including a national award for his excellence in trap shooting. He
even shot in competitions with competitors such as Roy Rogers. Paul
was a humble man who had a smile that lit up his whole face and was
contagious to everyone in the room.
As to Paul’s wishes,
cremation has taken place, and a service to honor his memory will
take place at 11 a.m. Friday July 29, at the Hartford Federated
Church. Pastor Timothy Nyhuis will officiate. Burial will be in
Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Memorials may be made to Wings of
Hope Hospice and Palliative Care Inc. of Allegan. The Calvin Funeral
Home, Hartford, is assisting the family.
Paul is survived by a son, Tom (Linda) Day of Fort
Lauderdale, Fla.; a daughter, Jean Ellen Day of Hartford;
grandchildren, Lynette, Ruth-Ann, Kimberly and Heather. Paul is also
survived by numerous great-grandchildren, one
great-great-granddaughter; and two sisters, Alene Dent of Fort
Myers, Fla., and Betty Bressman of Pine Island, Fla.
Besides his parents, Paul was preceded in death by his
wife, Dorthea "Dodie," on April 9, 1995; two sisters,
Katherine
Thompson and Frances Day; and a brother, Carl Day.
NOTE:
Paul was a
1927 Hartford High School graduate.
|
Margaret Alice Avery,
90, of Hartford passed away from her life on earth to eternity in
heaven on Monday, July 11, 2005, at South Haven Nursing and
Rehabilitation Community, South Haven.
Margaret was born on Sept. 25, 1914, in Hutchinson,
Kan., one of three girls and two boys of John and Dairy Payne, both
of whom preceded her in passing. She was a former cook for the
Hartford Public Schools and numerous other area restaurants.
The family will
greet friends from 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday, July 14, at Calvin
Funeral Home, Hartford, where the service to honor her memory will
take place at 11 a.m. The Rev. Richard Avery of the Kentwood
Community Church will officiate. Burial will follow in Maple Hill
Cemetery, Hartford.
Margaret is survived by a son, Richard Avery of St.
Joseph; a daughter, Suzan Lachman of Flushing, Mich.; five
grandchildren, Mike, Jennifer, Mark, Richard and Keith; and numerous
great-grandchildren.
Besides her parents, Margaret was preceded in death by
her husband, Jim, on Jan. 25, 1997; and a daughter, Bobby Bean, on
July 12, 1984 |
Loretta Louise Mesick
– Three Rivers– Loretta Louise Mesick, 63, of Three Rivers,
died Saturday, June 25, 2005, at Heartland Health Care, Three
Rivers.
Loretta was born Oct. 5 1941, in Arkansas, the daughter of Allen
James and Tinnie Lou (Miller) McConnell.
She graduated from
Hartford High school with the class of
1960. She moved to Three
Rivers from Keeler in 1967. She worked for 25 years for GTE
and Verizon.
Loretta was a volunteer at the Three Rivers Hospital, the
building blocks pre-school at New Hope Assembly of God, and
volunteered at Three Rivers Middle School, worked with 4-H
sewing projects and was a member of the Missionetts-Daises-Rainbows
at New Hope Assembly of God.
She is survived by her husband, Rodney William Mesick of Three
Rivers; one son, Todd William Mesick of Three Rivers; daughter,
Cheryl Lynn Cooper of Columbus, Ohio; her mother, Tinnie Lou
McConnell of Keeler; brothers, Tom James McConnell and Charles
Ray McConnell; five sisters, Anita Spring, Cindy Lynn Glenn,
Betty Ann Bitley, Barbara Roush and Sue Hand; and five
grandchildren, Joe Cooper III, Jesica Cooper, Jacob Cooper,
Matthew Cooper and Jonathon Cooper.
She was preceded in death by her father.
The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the
Hohner Funeral Home, Three Rivers. Services for Loretta Louise
Mesick will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 29, from the
Hohner Funeral Home, with Pastor Steve Miller officiating.
Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery. Memorials may be
directed to the American Diabetes Foundation. Envelopes are
available at the funeral home.
|
Imogene Straw, 85, born June 6, 1920, died June 5, 2005.
Her first husband, George Huffman preceded her in death. Her
husband,
Donald Straw, and son, George (Nancy) Huffman Jr., survives. |
Lilah J. Jordan, 88, of Hartford died Monday, May 30,
2005, at home.
She was born March 20, 1917, in Glendale, Mich., to
Wallace and Lena Clark. On Oct. 13, 1934, she married
Joseph Jordan,
and they shared 51 years of marriage until his death in 1986.
She is survived by four sons and their spouses,
Kenneth
"Pete" and Judy Jordan of Hartford, Roger and Laurel Jordan of
Bridgman, Thomas and Lois Jordan of Coloma and William and Darlene
Jordan of Hartford; also three daughters and their spouses, Shirley
and Larry Anchor of Hartford,
Patricia and Larry Rinehart of
Mattawan and Betty Jordan of Hartford.
In addition, she was the very proud grandmother of 14
grandchildren — Deborah (Rich) Swigart, Lisa (Fred) Cook, Jeff
(Kathy) Anchor, Michael (Carol) Anchor, Bryan "BJ" (Erin) Jordan,
Karyn Jordan Snyder, all of Hartford; Lynda (Roger) Hiler of
Dowagiac, Lorinda Freemyer of Benton Harbor, Roger (Francine) Jordan
Jr., and Andrew (Melisa) Jordan, all of Coloma; Timothy (Dawn)
Rinehart of Mattawan, Dawn Jordan of Porter Ranch, Calif., Amy
(Jeff) Dill of Lawton, and Anthony (Kathy) Jordan of Watervliet. She
also leaves behind 23 great-grandchildren and three
great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by a brother,
Richard Clark of Bloomingdale; a sister, Lucile Sargent of
Kalamazoo; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death
by a brother, Raymond Clark; infant brother, Ralph Clark; and infant
sister, Louise Clark.
Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at
Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford. Funeral services will be held at 10
a.m. Thursday, June 2, at Calvin Funeral Home. Burial will be in
Maple Hill Cemetery in Hartford. In lieu of flowers, memorials may
be made to Hospice of South Haven, P.O. Box 990, South Haven, Mich.
49090.
|
Florence L. Patterson,
also fondly known to many as "Grandma Pat," 95, of Hartford,
passed away from her life on earth to eternity in heaven on
Tuesday, May 10, 2005, at Lake View Continuing Care Center in
Lawton, where she resided since 2000.
Services will be held at noon Saturday at the Calvin
Funeral Home, Hartford, with Pastor Timothy Nyhuis of the Hartford
Federated Church officiating. Friends may visit with the family
from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will
follow in Keeler Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be
made to the Hartford Federated Church, the Van Buren Youth Camp or
the charity of one’s choice.
Florence was
born on Aug, 24, 1909, in Porter Township (Lawton), the daughter
of Selah and Ida (Crippin) Upham. Because of her father’s early
passing in 1909, she was raised by her parents, Alfred and Ida
Upham McCowen. She lived her entire life in the Lawton, Keeler and
Hartford areas.
She graduated from Hartford High School in 1927.
Florence was a member of the Hartford Federated Church, Southwest
Hartford Thursday Club, Hartford-Keeler Extension Group, was a 4-H
sewing leader for 35 years and a member of the Van Buren County
Farm Bureau, which honored her as Woman of the Year for her years
of service.
Florence is survived by three sons — Donald (Marge)
Patterson of Monticello, Ind.,
Louis Patterson of Fayetteville,
Ohio, and Ralph (Darlene) Patterson of Grand Junction; two
daughters — Lois (Larry) Blyly and
Sue (Stan) Dowd, both of
Hartford; 20 grandchildren; 46 great-grandchildren;13
great-great-grandchildren; one brother, Alfred E. McCowen of
Marion, Ohio; and several nieces and nephews.
Florence was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence
D. Patterson in 1978; one daughter, Wanda Patterson in 1935; one
son, Dale Patterson in 1931; one foster son, Charles Hill in 1991;
one granddaughter, Jamie Patterson in 2001; and two sisters —
Dorothy McCowen Goodrich and Gertrude McCowen Palmer.
|
V. Joenell Summerhill-Williamson, age
81, of Omaha, Nebraska, passed away Thursday, May 12, 2005, at
Midland Hospital, Papillion, Nebraska.
The family will meet
friends on Tuesday from 6-8 PM at the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller
Funeral Home, where funeral services will be at 10:00 AM
Wednesday. Interment will follow at North Shore Memory Gardens.
www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.
Joenell was born July 7, 1923 in Kennett, Missouri
the daughter of Turner and Ada (Sutfon) Goldsmith and has lived in
the Omaha area for past several years.
She was a long time
resident of the Hartford, Lawrence, and Bangor areas. She retired
in 1977 from the Watervliet Paper Company, attended Keeler General
Baptist Church, enjoyed gardening and quilting, and was a big
family person.
Surviving are 7 children, Terry (Linda) Summerhill
of Hartford, Marsha Summerhill of Bellevue, NE, Linda (Jim)
Parkhurst of Phoenix, AZ, Randy (Lois) Summerhill of Kalamazoo,
Donald (Jennifer) Summerhill of Bellevue, NE, Ronald Summerhill of
Phoenix, AZ, Annetta (Richard) Huffman of Pullman; a
daughter-in-law, Claudia Summerhill of Hartford; 3 step-children,
Mavis Pankey of Milburg, Darryl Williamson of Bangor, Robert
Williamson of Hartford; 29 grandchildren, 33 great grandchildren,
6 great great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews.
She was
preceded in death by her first husband Walter, a daughter,
Patricia Summerhill; a son, Bobbie Summerhill; her second husband
Virgil Williamson, a grandson and great granddaughter.
|
Ernest
Neff – Ernest’s life began Jan. 20, 1914, in
Hartford.
Ernest proudly served his country during World War II in the United
States Army. Ernest was a retired truck driver and mechanic. He
drove for many years for Michigan Fruit Canners. In his spare time
Ernest enjoyed the race car he owned and was a member of the
Hartford American Legion.
Ernest’s loving family includes his son, George and his
wife, Vivian Neff of Coloma; three grandchildren — Kenneth and his
wife Iris of Las Vegas, Kerry of Palm Beach, Fla., and Tom and his
wife Kandi of Niles; three great-grandchildren — Amber Neff, Kelly
Neff and Ciara Williams; and one great-great-grandchild, Jadan
Rosser; and a sister, Elizabeth and her husband Raymond Rogers of
Hartford.
Ernest died
Thursday, April 14, 2005, at Community Hospital, Watervliet.
His wife, Leora Neff, preceded him in death.
Friends may visit with Ernest’s family Saturday, April
23, from noon to 2 p.m. at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet,
where a memorial service will follow visitation at 2 p.m. Ernest’s
remains will then be interred in North Shore Memory Gardens on
Monday, April 25.
|
|
Ruth Marie
(Keillor) Keech –
After waging a determined sixteen month
battle against pancreatic cancer, Ruth Marie (Keillor) Keech, 67,
passed away at the Community Hospital in Watervliet on April 6,
2005.
Funeral services are slated for 11:00 a.m., Saturday, April 9,
2005, at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford with the Reverend Wayne
Babcock officiating. A luncheon will follow the service in the
cafeteria at Hartford High School. Visitation with the family will
be held at the Calvin Funeral Home, 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., on
Friday, April 8, 2005. The Order of the Eastern Star will conduct
their memorial service at 7:30 p.m. during the visitation.
Ruth was born in Gonzales, Louisiana, on December 18, 1937, to
Frank and Marie Keillor. The family moved to Michigan and settled
in the Hartford-Lawrence area. Ruth graduated from Hartford High
School in
1956 and continued her education by taking several classes
furthering her medical education. At the time of her passing, she
had been associated with the staff at the Coloma Medical Clinic
serving Dr. Rodolfo Quion as his assistant. Her career in the field
of medicine spanned over 40 years and she was praised for her strong
work ethic and professionalism while at the same time earning a
widespread reputation for her friendliness and caring approach to
the patients of the clinic.
Another important aspect of her life was her devotion and
industry exhibited in her lifelong association with the Benevolence
Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star in Lawrence, Michigan.
Ruth served this chapter as Worthy Matron for eighteen years. In
addition to her local leadership, she served the county association
and the state organization in various capacities.
Ruth was married to James Keech in November of 1957. In
addition to her husband, she is survived by four grown children –
Timothy Sean Keech of Kennewick, Washington; Matthew Shannon Keech
of Benton Heights, Michigan; Christopher Shea Keech of St. Joseph,
Michigan; and Rachel Shelagh Keech, also of St. Joseph. There are
six grandchildren; Dylan, Mahlon, and Mariah, of Kennewick,
Washington; James and Andrew of Watervliet, Michigan; and Colin Daly
of St. Joseph, Michigan. Ruth has a brother, James Keillor, who
lives in Omaha, Nebraska.
Preceding her in death were a prematurely born son, Kiplan, her
parents, two brothers, John and Daniel, and two sisters, Margaret
Nuzzo and Patricia Cogswell.
Memorials may be made in Ruth’s name to the Benevolence
Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, Lawrence, or to the American
Cancer Society.
|
John R. Pomeroy –
John died Sunday, April 3, 2005, at Community Hospital, Watervliet.
His father, Clarence Pomeroy, preceded him in death. John’s life began Aug. 15, 1948, in
Watervliet. He was one of four sons born to Clarence and Betty
(Wood) Pomeroy. John spent his lifetime in Hartford, graduating from
Hartford High School.
He
proudly served his country in the United States Army during the
Vietnam War. John worked as a shipping supervisor for ICG
Castings. Outside of work, John spent time enjoying life through his
hobbies which included — playing softball, he was umpire for the
Coloma Lanes softball league for 14 years; golfing, bowling, fishing
and playing cards.
John’s greatest love was his family, which includes his
wife, Sharon; son, Marshall and his wife Diana of Hartford;
grandchildren — Taylor and Kelsey; his mom,
Betty and her husband
George Busse of Niles; three brothers, Mike of Tennessee, Randy
(Donna) of Portage and Clarence (Glenna) of Stevensville; and his
dogs, Priscilla and Elvis.
Friends may visit with John’s family from 5 to 8 p.m.
Wednesday, April 6, at Hutchins Funeral Home, Watervliet. Mass of
Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, April 7, at
St. Joseph Catholic Church in Watervliet, with Father Don Wieber
officiating. Burial will follow in Fairview Memorial Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Animal Aid or West Michigan Cancer Center.
Note: John was
a
1966 Hartford High School graduate.
|
Walter B. "Walt" Hess,
83, formerly of Hartford, passed away at the Grand Rapids Home for
Veterans on Sunday afternoon, April 3, 2005.
He was preceded in death by the love of his life, his
wife Peg, in 1986; two brothers and one sister.
He is survived by five
sons and two daughters — Anna (Leon) Hudson of Hartford, Paul
(Barbara) Hess of Wilmington, N.C., Robert Hess of Wyoming, Mich.,
John (Mavis) Hess of Kentwood, Don (Gladys) Hess of Howard City,
Laura Eisner of Hartford, Vince (Tori) Hess of Lisbon Falls, Maine;
14 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; his sister-in-law,
Patricia McCombs; many nieces, nephews and friends.
Walt honorably
served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. A Mass of Christian Burial with
committal services will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 6, at 1
p.m. at Grand Rapids Home for Veterans Chapel, 3000 Monroe Ave., NE,
49505. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery. Relatives and
friends may meet his family at the Veterans Home Chapel on Wednesday
from noon until the start of Mass. In lieu of flowers, please make a
contribution to the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. Alt & Shawmut
Hills Chapel-Heritage Life Story Funeral Homes, Grand Rapids.
|
Yvonne Leone Leonard,
"Vonnie", 67, of Hartford passed away from her life on earth to
eternity in heaven on Wednesday, March 23, 2005, at Community
Hospital, Watervliet.
Vonnie was born on Dec. 28, 1937, in Dowagiac the
daughter of Ormond and Maude (Parish) Goodrich. Vonnie graduated
from Paw Paw High School in 1956. She worked as a pharmacy
technician at LakeView Community Hospital in Paw Paw for a number of
years. She’s a former co-owner, with her
husband Dale, of the Calvin and Leonard Funeral Homes. She
was also a member of the Hartford United Methodist Church, former
past president and held other offices within the Hartford Business
Association. In her spare time she always enjoyed bowling and was a
member of the Thursday Tea League and the Hit and Miss League at
Lakes Bowl in Sister Lakes.
Vonnie was a
loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and
mother-in-law, who gave more than what she ever asked in return.
She was united in marriage to Dale D. Leonard on Feb.
12, 1956. Dale survives along with daughters —
Penny (Jim)
Patterson and Cindy (Jerry) Birmele, both of Hartford and son
Richard (Sherry) Leonard of Lawrence. Vonnie is also survived by
grandchildren — Shawn (Aubrey) Patterson of Portage, Crystal
(Chris) Cowgill of Hartford, Janell Birmele of Hartford, Abby
Leonard of Lawrence, Tony Leonard of Lawrence, Jerrod Birmele of
Hartford, Billy Leonard of Lawrence, Jenna Birmele of Hartford; and
great-grandson Elijah Cowgill of Hartford. Vonnie is also survived
by a brother, Ronald Goodrich of Stanton; sisters-in-law, Eva
Goodrich of Gobles, Donna Goodrich of Shelbyville; and numerous
other relatives.
In addition to her parents, Vonnie was preceded by two
brothers, Robert Goodrich Sr. and Frederick Goodrich; and two
nephews, Dale Goodrich and Marvin Goodrich.
The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m.
Friday, March 25, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service
to honor her memory will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 26, at
the funeral home with the Rev. Ronald Hansen of the Hartford United
Methodist Church and the Rev. Carl Wright of the First Baptist
Church of Decatur officiating. Burial will be in Maple Hill
Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that
memorials be made to either Borgess-Visiting Nurse and Hospice or to
the Hartford United Methodist Church.
|
Theodore
Stewart Scott, 83, of Siloam Springs, Ark., died March 7,
2005 at Northwest Medical Center of Washington County in Springdale,
Ark. Born April 2, 1921 in Hartford, Mich., he was the son of
Henry S. Scott and Zoa Kiddler Scott.
Scott was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War ii and a
former resident of Coldwater, Mich. He attended Emmanuel
Missionary College, a Seventh-day Adventist College, in Berrien
Springs, Mich. In 1983, he retired from the State Hospital in
Quincy, Mich. Shortly thereafter, he moved to Arkansas. He
married Gertrude B. Cottman in 1947.
Survivors include his wife, Gertrude of the home; one
daughter, Teresa Regal of Siloam Springs; five grand children; and
six great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. March 11 at
the Gentry Seventh-day Adventist Church in Gentry, Ark. Burial
will follow at 2 p.m. in Fayetteville National Cemetery in
Fayetteville, Ark. To sign the guestbook, visit
www.wassonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the
direction of Wasson Funeral Home, Siloam Springs.
NOTE: Theodore was a
1942 Hartford High School graduate.
|
Anthony Gerald "Jerry" Cheshire, 72, of Hartford passed away
peacefully from his life on earth to eternity in heaven on
Tuesday, March 1, 2005, at his residence.
Jerry was born on Feb. 24, 1933, in New Hope, Ky., the son of
Thaddeus and Bessie (Williamson) Cheshire, both of whom preceded
him in death.
Jerry served his country in the Korean War
and
recently was recognized by Governor John Engler through special
commendation for his sacrifice. Jerry was employed through Coloma
Community Schools as its Transportation Supervisor and Grounds
Superintendent. He was also a local farmer for several years.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 8
p.m. Friday, March 4, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with a
rosary beginning at 7 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be
celebrated to honor his memory at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 5, at
the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Hartford. Father Robert
Flickinger will be the celebrant. Burial will follow in Maple Hill
Cemetery, Hartford, where military rites will be performed by VFW
Post 1137, VFW Post 6803 and American Legion Post 362 and its
auxiliary. Memorials may be made to South Haven Area Hospice.
Jerry is survived by the love of his life, Luella Moore, whom he
married on Aug. 14, 1954. Also surviving are four sons — Tony
Cheshire of Lawrence, Mike (Beverly) Cheshire of Hartford, Don
(Kathy) Cheshire of Harbor Springs and Jeff (Theresa) Cheshire of
Heber City, Utah; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren;
and three brothers — Kenneth (Doris) Cheshire, Jim (Ann) Cheshire
and Stan Cheshire.
Besides his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by two brothers,
Francis and Joe Cheshire; and a sister, Freda Harbin.
|
Charles Duane
Livingston, 64, of Hartford passed suddenly from his life on
earth to eternity in heaven on Saturday, Feb. 26, 2005, at his
residence.
Charles was born on June 25, 1940, in Brownwood, Mo.,
the son of Elmer and Mary (Kelly) Livingston. Charles owned Franz
Electric for over 15 years.
The family will receive friends from 10
to 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 2, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford,
where a service to honor his memory will take place at 11 a.m.
Pastor James Sumners of the Faith of the Apostle’s Church in
Hartford will officiate. Burial will follow at Maple Hill Cemetery,
Hartford. Memorials may be made to the family.
Charles is survived by his mother, Mary of Hartford; a
brother, Jim Livingston of Hartford; two nephews — Kevin and Casey
and a niece, Jennifer.
Charles was preceded in death by his father, Elmer; and
his wife, Frances, who passed away on July 18, 1996.
Note:
Charles was a
1960 Hartford High School graduate.
|
Donald Harold Bachman,
88, of Hartford, passed from his life on earth to eternity in heaven
on Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2005, at his residence.
Donald was born on Jan. 23, 1917, in Watervliet, the son of Harold
and Esther (Morlock) Bachman, both of whom preceded him in death.
He was owner of
Don Bachman
Welding for over 36 years from 1946 until his retirement in
1982. Following his retirement, Don and his wife, Alice, enjoyed
traveling, bowling and golfing together. He was a former member of
the Hartford Fire Board, where he also served as a volunteer
firefighter. He was a member of the Hartford United Methodist
Church, Van Buren Sportsman’s Club and was a lifelong member of the
Masonic Lodge. He was an avid golfer and bowler. He was a Hartford
Indian fan, especially watching his kids and grandkids play sports.
He was even able to watch his great-grandsons play Little League
last summer. In 1935, Don won the Green and Gold Award from
Coloma High School.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m.
Friday, Feb. 25, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. A service to
honor his memory will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 26, at
the funeral home. The Rev. Ronald Hansen of the Hartford United
Methodist Church will officiate. Burial will follow in Maple Hill
Cemetery, Hartford. Memorials may be made to the Hartford Fire
Department or Van Buren-Cass Hospice.
Donald is survived by his wife, Alice; a daughter,
Patricia (Jim) Empson of Traverse City, two sons — Terry (Doris)
Bachman of Kalamazoo and Rick (Ernestine) Bachman of Hartford; eight
grandchildren — Kelly (Tom) Richards, Kim Root, Kevin (Sue) Empson,
Terri L. Bachman, Amy (Ray) Gendron, Aaron Elizabeth (Todd) Valdes,
Anne (Matt) Smith and Andy (Kristen) Bachman; 12
great-grandchildren; two sisters — Mary Cooper and Alice McNabb,
both of Florida; and several step grandchildren and step
great-grandchildren.
Besides his parents, Donald was preceded in passing by
his son, Ronald C. Bachman in 1963
|
Verna Sue Tucker
(nee: Chambers), formerly of Hartford, passed to her eternal home on
Feb. 19, 2005, in Winter Haven, Fla. She was born in Kennett, Mo.,
and moved to Michigan as a child. She resided in Hartford until
1984, when she relocated to Oklahoma, and in 2003 moved to
Auburndale, Fla., to live with her daughter. She received her
nursing degree from LMC and was employed at Community Hospital,
Watervliet. She was baptized in the Lord at Keeler, Mich., and was a
member of the Emmanuel Baptist Church.
She is survived by three children — Sherrie Tucker of
Auburndale, Fla., Brenda Wyatt of Norman, Okla., and James Tucker of
Bethany, Okla.; a brother, Kenneth Chambers of Hartford; sister,
Paula Pool of Coloma; grandchildren — Michael, Rashawnda and Megan
Clugston, and Kassie and Heath Smith. She is also survived by many
nieces and nephews; and her faithful companion, Tinker, whom she
adored.
She was preceded
in death by her grandparents; parents, Mildred and Oscar Chambers;
and a brother, Russell.
Sue was a shining example of faith, determination and a
positive attitude. She endured many hardships throughout her life.
She suffered a stroke at age 39, which ended her nursing career, and
later an auto accident which left her hospitalized for a year.
Throughout all she looked toward the future with hope and faith.
She loved her Lord and her family and was a loving
mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Her wonderful sense of
humor and infectious laughter could change your mood in an instant
and she was a wonderful listener. She leaves a hole in our hearts
that will never be filled and leaves us her courage, strength and
love to continue on until we meet with her again. She would want her
family to think of her and smile and know she is safe at home and
whole again.
The family asks that memorials in her honor be made to
the American Diabetes Foundation.
"Hear my laughter in the wind, see my smile in the stars and hold my
love for you in your heart as I will keep yours always."
NOTE: Verna was
from the
1963 Class of Hartford High School.
|
Irving
Allen Clauser – While surrounded by his loved ones,
Irv journeyed home to be with the Lord on Feb. 13, 2005.
Irv was born to Allen and Marie Clauser on Jan. 12,
1935. He was born at their home on Columbus Avenue in Benton Harbor.
Irv, known as the Iron Horse (who ran for the Benton Harbor Tigers),
was an excellent athlete and excelled in track. He ran many great
races and overcame his last hurdle with tremendous courage and faith
in the Lord.
Irv served in the
USAF Northeast Air Command. He raised horses for the past 47
years. Irv was deputized and has been active with the Van Buren
County Mounted Division for 36 years. He also served as a member of
the Marine Patrol, which included service on several inland lakes as
well as Lake Michigan.
He always enjoyed spending time with his family and
friends, especially after his retirement. He frequently attended
ballgames and was each of his grandchildren’s number one fan. Irv
enjoyed life to the fullest. He hunted in Newfoundland, Alaska,
Wyoming and Colorado, as well as Michigan. One of his most recent
adventures was building a cabin "Up North." It truly was a labor of
love, which he built for his family.
Irv is survived by his loving wife,
Anna, whom he
married on March 27, 1971; his son, Marc (Lisa) Clauser; his
daughter, Terry (Larry) Adams; his son, Raymond Paul Clauser; his
son, John (Jody) Clauser; his daughter, Rebecca (Raymond) Evans; his
grandchildren — Olivia, Kevin-Tylor, Matthew, Trent, Chelsea,
Zachary, Riley, Ryan, and Brett. He is also survived by his sister,
Virginia (Ralph) Black; his brother, Allen "Al" Clauser; and several
nieces, nephews, and many wonderful friends.
He was preceded by his parents, Allen and Marie
Clauser; and his sister, Elna Clauser.
Visitation will be held at the Hartford United
Methodist Church on Wednesday, Feb. 16, from 6 to 8 p.m. The funeral
service will be held at the Hartford United Methodist Church on
Thursday, Feb. 17, at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please make
donations to the family.
|
|
Donald Eugene "Woody"
Woodward, 71, of Hartford, passed peacefully from his
life at home on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2005, after a courageous battle
with cancer.
Don was born on Oct. 23, 1933, to Marjorie and George
Woodward. He spent his youth in Watervliet, Fennville, and Hartford.
He served in the Army Corp
of Engineers where he was a heavy equipment operator in Korea.
This led him to a career in the trucking and concrete business until
his retirement in 1995. He served his community as
a
member of the Hartford Fire
Department and ambulance service for 25 years. He served in
many capacities, such as firefighter, secretary treasurer and
captain. He left his mark on life with his willingness to help
anyone who asked and his endearing love of his family, especially
his grandchildren, to whom he was willing to be a patient teacher.
He leaves behind many lifelong friends and several nieces, nephews,
brother and sister in-laws.
Donald is survived by Carol, his loving wife of 47
years, sons, Michael (Theresa) Woodward, Ken Woodward and daughter,
Susan (Andy) Gearhart, all of Hartford; sister, Sharon (Bill)
Clupper of Hartford; grandchildren — Jayme, Bethany, and Phillip
Woodward and a special granddog, Penny.
Don was preceded in death by his father, George; his
mother, Marjorie Rudel; stepfather, Pete Rudel; halfbrother, Gale
Woodward and granddaughter, Brooke Nichol Woodward.
The family will meet friends at the Calvin Funeral
Home, Hartford, from 3 to 5 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 16. The service to
honor his memory will be Monday, Jan. 17 at 10 a.m. at the funeral
home. The Rev. Ronald Hansen of the Hartford United Methodist Church
will officiate. Burial will be in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford,
with a fireman’s escort and burial. In lieu of flowers, memorials
may be made to South Haven Area Hospice, who made his last days
comfortable and last wishes a reality.
Note:
Click here to view Don’s military picture and profile on the History
of Hartford website.
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Antoinette "Tonie" P. Rice,
79, of Hartford died Monday, Jan. 10, 2005, at her home.
She was born May 27, 1925, in Paw Paw, the daughter of
Stephen and Antoinette (Sadecky) Minarik.
She and her husband, Dwaine
have been owners of Rice’s Sporting Equipment, in Hartford since
1955. She graduated from Paw Paw High School in 1943, and
attended a photography school in Chicago, later opening a studio in
Hartford, until raising a family took all of her spare time. Family
was always most important to her and she was very proud of them all.
She was a member of the Southwestern Michigan Horse and Buggy Club
for the past ten years.
She is survived by her husband, Dwaine Rice, who she
married on Oct. 4, 1947; sons, Morrie (Cheryln) Rice of Torrance,
Calif., Gary Rice of Polson, Mont., Lindsay Rice of Sister Lakes and
a daughter, Tina (John) Streeter of Hartford. Grandchildren —
Lauren and Erin Rice of California, Tyler Rice of Montana, Natasha
(Shawn) Williamson of Dowagiac, Nicole (Rede) Rintamaa of Augusta,
Ga., Kyle (Rebecca) Romeo and Kevin Romeo of Hartford.
Great-grandchildren — Abbi and Hunter Williamson, Jordan and
Phillip Brown, Eleana and Giana Romeo.
Antoniette also leaves behind a brother, Stephen
Minarik of Paw Paw; sisters — Josephine Minarik of Battle Creek,
Mildred Javor of Charlotte, Anne Stanton of Paw Paw, Margaret
Wojciechowski and Alice Stiever both of Kalamazoo; brother-in-law,
Larry (Linda) Fisher of Decatur, sister-in-laws, Eileen Thomas of
Decatur, Adeline Minarik of St. Joseph and Eleanor Minarik of
Williamson, along with several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers —
Andrew, John and Joseph Minarik and daughter-in-law, Nancy Rice.
Cremation has taken place. The family will receive
friends on Wednesday, Jan. 19 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Calvin Funeral
Home in Hartford where memorial services will be held Thursday, Jan.
20 at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Private family burial of cremains
will take place at a later date.
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Franklin G. "Bud" Fulton Sr.,
82, of Coloma died Saturday morning, Jan. 8, 2005, at his home.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Davidson Chapel,
Florin Funeral Service, Coloma, where visitation will be held from 5
to 8 p.m. Tuesday. Burial with military rites will be in North Shore
Memory Gardens. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice at Home or
Lakeland Hospital Dialysis at 3900 Hollywood Road.
Bud was born July 3, 1922, in Chicago to Franklin J. and Dorothy (Heintz)
Fulton. He was a
World War II veteran of the Navy and was a member of the
Hartford American Legion Post 93. He loved fishing, hunting,
gardening and was a member of the Michigan Steelheaders. He had been
employed full-time as a truck driver for 30 years and part-time for
an additional 24 years.
Survivors include his wife, Helen (Brooks), whom he
married on Nov. 14, 1953, in Bangor; two sons — Franklin George
(Lori) Fulton Jr. of Paw Paw and Bruce (Jennifer) Fulton of Coloma;
and two sisters — Dorothy Stenske of Stevensville and Cynthia
(William) Ikola of St. Joseph.
Also surviving are three grandchildren, Hailley Fulton, Daniel Fulton and
Jason (Candice) Hamilton, and several nieces and nephews. Bud was preceded in death by two brothers, Harold Jack
Fulton and Walter Robert Fulton.
NOTE:
Franklin was a
1942 Hartford High School graduate. |
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