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     Obituar
ies in 2013

         Hartford Michigan
 

        Click here to return to the Obituary Index

Please email the webmaster if you have obituaries of people who lived in Hartford Michigan, or was active in the Hartford community, at some time during their lives. To find a specific obituary, use the  Search Our Site  feature, also located on the 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 (or learn of the passing away of someone who lived in Hartford at one time) of a former Hartford resident from a newspaper away from the Hartford area, please send it. Past obituaries will be added as time permits.  Death notices are also posted in the HHS graduate database.
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Many requests are made for obituary notices and this is a good genealogical resource, as well as providing obits to extended family members who may not have an original.  Searching previous year obituaries (mainly prior to 2003) requires a good deal of time.  If you found this to be a valuable resource and would like to be a sponsor toward keeping the obituaries page updated, send donations to History of Hartford Obituaries, Emma Sefcik, 59320 62nd St, Hartford MI  49057.  Since the History of Hartford website is a voluntary effort, your contribution is much appreciated.

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James W. Downs, 67, of New Carlisle, passed away peacefully at 9:15 p.m., Monday, December 30, 2013 at his home.
     On March 23, 1946, Benton Harbor, MI., he was born to David and Angeline (Lamb) Downs.
     James enjoyed hunting, trapping, and model trains. James was a deacon of his church, Yore Ave Baptist Church. James previously owned a pet store and loved his dog, companion and friend, Gidget, who recently passed.
     On November 6, 1964 in Hartford, Michigan, he married Jeannie (Stuart) Downs, who survives.
     Surviving are four children, Bruce Downs of Buchanan, MI., Melanie (John) Creech of New Carlisle, Dwight (Darlene) Downs of Buchanan, MI., and Kimberly (Randy) Smith of Berrien Springs, MI.; one sister, Valeria “Faye” Dilts of Florida; eight grandchildren, Jake, Danny, John Jr., Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, Joseph, and Ashley; three great grandchildren, Kael, Kaitlyn, and Naomi.
     Preceding him in death were his parents; two sisters, Deverlan McFall, and Dorothy Smithley.
     There will be no services. Cremation will take place. Lakeview Funeral Home & Crematory, 247 W. Johnson Rd., La Porte, (219) 362-3100 is caring for the arrangements.
     Please send condolences to the family at www.LakeviewFHC.com.
Kenneth Sweet, age 90, died December 23, 2013 in Kalamazoo. He was born May 21, 1923 in Hartford, the son of Darrell and Gladys (Raymond) Sweet.
     Kenny worked at Allied Paper Mill for 42 years. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Lilianne Sweet in 1992; son-in-law, Tom Rix and by his three siblings. Members of his family include his wife, Helen (Roth) Sweet; three children: Karen Rix, Donn (Pam) Sweet and Scott (Cheryl) Sweet; Helen’s children: John (Cindy) Roth and Char (Joe) Gleesing; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
     Services will be held Saturday 12 noon at the Life Story Funeral Home, Betzler-Kalamazoo, 6080 Stadium Drive; 375-2900 followed by luncheon in the Life Story Center. Please visit Kenny’s personal web page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can archive a favorite memory or photo and sign his online guestbook before coming to the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Rose Arbor Hospice.



Lt. Col. Bicknell K. Beckwith, formerly of Hartford, passed away December 18, 2013.  More information will be posted when it becomes available.
He retired from the US Air force in 1973. 

NOTE:  Bick attended school at Hartford through his 11th year, at which time his family moved to Watervliet, where he graduated in 1943.
Karen L. Harmon, 60, of Hartford passed away Sunday, Dec. 15, 2013, at Bronson Methodist Hospital, Kalamazoo.
    
Karen was born March 23, 1953, in Muskegon, the daughter of Arvin and Valerie (Jackson) Byers, both of whom preceded her in passing. Also preceding her in passing were a grandson, Andrew David Zeiner; and her beloved dog, Froggie.
     Karen is survived by two daughters, Marilyn Johnson of Hartford and Valerie Johnson of Riverside; a son, Paul Harmon of South Haven; two granddaughters, Paige and Cheyenne Staggs, both of Lawrence; and two brothers, Paul (Loree) Byers of Washington and Keith (Margie) Byers of St. Louis, Mo.
     As per Karen’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later date. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so at www.calvin-leonardfh.com
.
Dona Della Sherman, 85, long­time area resident and horsewoman of Hartford, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2013, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph.
     Dona was born Dec. 23, 1927, in Hartford, the daughter of Donald and
Anna (Gay) Chidester, both of whom preceded her in passing. She was also preceded in passing by her husband of 55 years, Leroy Sherman, on June 13, 2003.
     Dona owned and operated Mi-Ladies Dress Shop in Hartford and Coloma for 25 years and was a top­producing real estate broker for 24 years. While Dona enjoyed many things, her greatest love and passion were her horses. She was an accomplished horse­woman and trainer. She received a standing ovation at the 2011 annual MSU Colt Training Competition, where, at 84 years old, she saddle broke a young horse that the rest of the contestants said could not be ridden.
     Dona is survived by a daughter, Cynthia (Edward) Booth of Dowagiac; two grandchildren: Jason (Susan) Booth of Milwaukee and Sara Booth Reinhardt of Hartford; and three great-grandchildren.
     Per Dona’s wishes, cremation took place. A memorial service to honor her memory will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 11, at Hartford United Methodist Church with the Rev. Jeffrey Williams officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Dona’s name be made to the American Cancer Society or to Van Buren or Cass County Animal Control.


NOTE:  Dona was a 1946 graduate of Hartford High School.
Madgaline Pierce, 81, of Hartford passed away Monday, Dec. 9, 2013, at home.
     Madgaline was born March 1, 1932, in Marie, Ark., the daughter of Clifford and Gertrude (Alred) Yeager, both of whom preceded her in passing. She was also preceded in passing by three sisters: Clara, Donarie and Orline; and three brothers: George, Billy and Charlie.
     Madgaline worked in the housekeeping department at Lakeland Community Hospital, Watervliet, for 10 years before moving on to work at Michigan Fruit Canners. She was loyal to the Lord and loved attending the Full Gospel Assembly Church in Hartford.
     Madgaline married Albert Pierce on May 7, 1947, and he survives, along with six children: Carol Applegate of Hartford; Patricia (Sam) Williams of Watervliet; Robert (Bonnie) Pierce of Dowagiac; Bethal Tredor and Jeanette (Vince) Tapp, both of Hartford; and Albert (Lisa) Pierce of Coloma; 16 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Shirley and Dorothy.
     A graveside service to honor her memory will be at noon Thursday, Dec. 12, at Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford, with Pastor Shannon Truelove officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Full Gospel Assembly Church. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with ar­rangements. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences may do so at
www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
 
Samuel Waterlander, 72, of Keeler Township passed away Saturday, December 7, 2013 at his home.
    
Samuel was born on May 9, 1941, in Decatur, MI., to Evert and Lena (Hempenius) Waterlander. Samuel proudly served his country in the Marines during the Vietnam War. He retired after 25 years as a custodian at the Dowagiac Union Schools.
    
He is survived by his wife, the former Carol Shellenbarger, a son, Scott of Keeler Township, a sister, Magdalene Waterlander of Saint Joseph, a sister, Martha Teisan of Decatur, numerous nieces, nephews as cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents a brother, Jacob Waterlander and two sisters.
     The family will welcome friends from 1 to 2 P.M.; Wednesday, December 11 at the Full Gospel Christian Tabernacle Church in Watervliet, where the service to honor his memory will commence at 2 P.M. with Pastor Tom Fuller officiating. Samuel will be laid to rest in Herrison Cemetery, Decatur. The family asks memorial donations in Samuel’s name be made to either the family or to the church. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. You may leave memorial condolences in Samuel’s name on our web site at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
    
Susan Diane Williams, 71  of Hartford, passed away Saturday, Dec. 7, 2013 at her home.
    
Susan was born Feb. 6, 1942 in Lawrence, the daughter of Gerald and Ruth (Kime) Selters, both of whom preceded her in passing. She loved the times spent with her family, especially the time she spent with her grandchildren.
     Susan is survived by three children: Timothy Wayne (Kimberly Lynn Smith) Oldham and Christopher Lee (Kimberly Ann) Oldham, both of Hartford, and James O’Neal Williams of Lawrence; five grandchildren: Joshua, Garret, Devin, Tyler and Abigail; two great grandchildren; a brother, Jim Selters, and five sisters, Jeryl Stair, Linda (Chuck) Nydam, Jane Yeder, Jordan Selters and Jill Hunter.
 
    The family will welcome friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 12 at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. Following the visitation, Susan will be cremated. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.


NOTE:  Susan was a
1960 Hartford High School graduate.
 

Earl Wayne Higgins was born to Exell and Roy Higgins on April 24, 1944, in Missouri. Earl went to be with the Lord on Nov. 20, 2013, with his children and grandchildren by his side.
     Earl grew up in Missouri, then he went into the Army, where he was a cook and an M.P. He moved to Michigan, where he met the love of his life and her son, both of whom have already gone to be with the Lord. Earl retired from Michigan Tube. Earl loved his family very much, and they loved him very much, as well.
     Earl leaves behind a family who loves him very much, including four children: Joseph Higgins of Dowagiac; April (Dan) Blevins of Hartford; Linda (Don) Fischer of Coloma; and Cheryl (Richie) Carlyle of Berrien Springs; seven granddaughters; six grandsons; three greatgrandsons; two brothers: Larry and George Higgins, both of Missouri; and three sisters: Shelby Moore and Brenda Thrasher, both of Missouri; and Regina Krieger of Michigan; and many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
     He was preceded in passing by his wife, Linda Higgins; a son, David Baldwin; and his parents.
     As to Earl’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life service to honor Earl’s memory will be at 3 p.m. Monday, Nov. 25, at Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford, with Pastor Shannon Truelove of the Full Gospel Assembly Church of Hartford officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Earl’s name may be made to the family. Memorial condolences for the family may be left at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
 

Laurie Ann Pipkins, 48, of Hartford passed away unexpectedly at her residence Wednesday, Nov. 20.
     Services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26, at Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home in Coloma, where visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Monday. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery in Watervliet. Donations in memory of Laurie may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society. Those wishing to leave an online message of comfort for the family may do so at www.duffieldpastrick.com.
     Laurie was born Dec. 22, 1964, in Coldwater, Mich., to George and Pauline (Moore) Pipkins. She loved “Eeyore,” singing karaoke and collecting carousel horses. She also enjoyed calling bingo for her apartment complex.
     Laurie is survived by a daughter, Georgi Leisure of Hartford: her mother, Pauline Pipkins of Hartford; brothers: Charlie (Theresa) Broadhurst of Watervliet; Joe Diehl of Hartford; Jamie (Cindy) Diehl of Hartford; and Paul Pipkins of Watervliet; a sister, Heather (Nacer) Tag of Hartford; and two grandchildren, Payton and Zayden Inman.
     She was preceded in death by a daughter, Mirinda Leisure; her father, George; a sister-in-law, Tammy Capovilla-Diehl; and her grandparents.
 
NOTE:  Laurie was a 1992 Hartford High School graduate.
Odena Louise Hansen, 91, dearly loved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, was a faithful disciple of Jesus Christ. He was her Savior and Lord, and on Nov. 9, 2013, she met Him face to face.
     Odena was born Nov. 27, 1921, in a church parsonage in Allendale, Mich. Most of her childhood was spent in Houghton, N.Y. After a wartime courtship by mail with an Army airman in Hawaii, she married the love of her life, Carl J. Hansen, and moved to Manistee, Mich. After his death in 1983, she lived in Ovid, Hartford and Portage. Her life was spent providing love and support to her children and grandchildren. She was a lifelong student of one book, the Bible, and her passion was 63 years of vol­unteer ministry at the Manistee Salvation Army, the United Church of Ovid and Hartford United Methodist Church. Her hobbies were crocheting and watching the “Price Is Right” “Wheel of Fortune” and “Jeopardy!” And she loved Charlie the cat.
     Odena was preceded in death by her parents, the Rev. Lewis and Alice Clark; 10 brothers and sisters; and son-in-law, Larry Marsh. She is survived by her son, the Rev. Ron (Jan) Hansen of Portage, Mich.; daughter, Cheryl Marsh of Battle Creek; grandchildren: Paula (Scott) Dennison of Ithaca, Mich.; Eric (Renelle) Hansen of Kalamazoo; Terri Marsh, Christi Marsh and Lisa (Charles) Thomas, all of Battle Creek; Aaron (Sarah) Hunt of Grand Haven; Rebecca Hunt of Michigan City, Ind.; and David (Larissa) Hunt of Mattawan; and 11 great­grandchildren.
     A worship service to honor her life will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16, at Hartford United Methodist Church, 425 E. Main St., Hartford.
     The Rev. Ron Hansen will officiate, supported by the Revs. Jeff Williams and Greg Wood. The family will greet friends beginning at 11 a.m.
     Contributions in her memory may be made to Hartford United Methodist Church, where Odena experienced amazing Christian love.

 
Bobby Samuel Summerhill, 51, Esto FL, formerly of Hartford MI, died November 6, 2013.

Police report from the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office

An Esto man died in a house fire Wednesday morning in Northern Holmes County. On November 6, 2013 at approximately 6:18 AM the Holmes County Communications Center received a call of a mobile home fire on Highway 2 west of Esto. The Holmes County Sheriff’s Office and Fire Departments responded. Esto, Pitttman and Graceville Fire Departments arrived and extinguished the fire. Firefighters then located the remains of 51 year-old Bobbie Samuel Summerhill inside the residence. Firefighters had the fire extinguished in minutes. The residence was a total loss. Summerhill was the only occupant of the residence. The fire is under investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office.

Update:  The preliminary cause of death has been released in a Holmes County fire that killed an ESTO man. According to the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office, 51-year-old Bobbie Samuel Summerhill died of smoke inhalation. The fires started early Wednesday. The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the State Fire Marshal and the Holmes County Sheriff’s Off

Richard Pocevich, 73, of Hartford, died Monday, November 4, 2013.  Richard’s life began September 19, 1940 in Chicago, Illinois.
     Richard grew up in Chicago where he graduated high school. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy. Richard retired from Wolverine but his favorite job was helping Frank
Simington manage his farm. Richard found his relaxation while gardening and farming especially tending to his roses and caring for his dogs. On November 4, 1972, Richard married the love of his life Dottie Finehout and they enjoyed 35 years together. His greatest enjoyment came in spending time with his loving family which includes: four children Dee Dee (Steve) Stakely of Coloma, Emily (Jason) Allen-Moore of Hartford, Richard Pocevich Jr. of Florida, Angela (Cecil) Jackson of Hartford; 15 grandchildren Tony Jones, Ashley Layne, Clayton Stakely, Victoria Allen, William Allen, Elizabeth Allen, Joshua Moore, Tyler Moore, Brittany Heffington, Aspen Gerlach, Bailey Jackson, Samantha Gargano, Madison Nail, Hunter Jackson, and Aleigha Jackson; and three great grandchildren Karson Jackson, Holly Jones, and Gabriella Layne.
     Richard died Monday, November 4.
     His wife Dorothy “Dottie”
Pocevich and parents precede Richard in death. Funeral services will be celebrated Monday, November 11 at 2:00 PM with visitation prior starting at 1:00 PM at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet. Burial will follow in Fairview Memorial Cemetery. You may leave a memory for Richard’s family at hutchinsfuneral.com.
     Curtis Gene Welty, 74, was born on March 21, 1939, and passed away peacefully at his home Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2013. He was the youngest of seven children born to Basil and Maggie (Cook) Welty.
    
Curtis married the former Betty Jane Maddox on May 17, 1958. He was a devoted husband and father who truly enjoyed the time he spent with his family. Curtis was formerly employed and retired from Whirlpool Corp. He owned and operated the Curtis Welty and Son Welding Shop in Hartford from 1982 to 2009 and also served as a chaplain at Watervliet Community Hospital for a number of years.
    
Curtis is survived by his three children: Curtis Wayne (Audrey) Welty, Kevin Welty and Candace Welty; and his seven grandchildren: Candra Janisse, Dustin, Christa, Tiffany, Curtis, Paige and Nolan Welty.
     His wife, Betty, passed away April 20 this year. He was also preceded in passing by his parents; stepmother, Clara (Clay) Welty; a sister, Mildred DeMay; and five brothers: David, William, Earl, Norman and Vernon Welty.
     The family will welcome friends from 3-4:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 3, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where his celebration of life service will commence at 4:30 p.m., with Pastor Wayne Davis officiating. As to Curtis’ wishes, cremation will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Curtis’ name may be made to Hospice at Home or His Place Cathedral of Faith. Memo­rial condolences for the family may be left at http://www.calvin-­leonardfh.com.

NOTE:  Curt was a 1958 Hartford High School graduate.
Donald H. Romeo, 79, of South Haven, formerly of Benton Harbor and Hartford, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2013, at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo.
     Donald was born June 9, 1934, to James and Annie Romeo in Benton Harbor. Don graduated from Hartford High School [1981] and retired from the Watervliet Paper Mill after 34 years. In 1953 he married Patricia Ann Gordon of Watervliet. Not long after they married, they started their family and had six beautiful children. On March 9, 1985, Patricia passed away from colon cancer. Don remarried on Oct. 21, 1988, to Nancy Ann Ament. They married at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Sister Lakes, where Don was a longstanding member.
     Don is survived by his wife, Nancy Romeo; sister, Theresa Senzig; children: Roxy (Pat) Tarantino, Rick Romeo, Kathy Romeo, David Romeo, Doug (Lisa) Romeo, Dennis (Stacey) Romeo, Scott Nash, Kenny Nash and Deana Goss; grandchildren: Bryan (Jen) Romeo, Jeannene (Chris) Gatties, Kyle (Becky) Romeo, Kevin (Anna) Romeo, Jessica (Derrick) Rosses, Sabrina (Rick) Baker, Michael Romeo, Mikayla Romeo, Micah Romeo, Autum Romeo, Paul Romeo, Rachel Romeo, Ryan Romeo, Katherine Romeo, Cody Romeo, Bradley (Mishelle) Goss, Amber Nash, Taylor (Joey) Robinson, Dominique Nash, Danielle Goss, Brittanie Nash, Lacie Nash and Justin Smith; great-grandchildren:
Alora Gatties, Audra Gatties, Brianna Baker, Ricky Baker, Giana Romeo, Eleana Romeo, Lyla Rosses, Cole Romeo, Hunter Goss and Max Goss; and many nieces and nephews.; and many nieces and nephews.
     Don was preceded in death by his first wife, Patricia Romeo; his father, James Romeo; his mother, Annie (Al) Keller; brothers: Robert Romeo, Joe Romeo, James Romeo and George Romeo; sister, Margie McGowan; stepson, Gregory Nash; and daughter-in-law, Nan Nash.
     Don was an outstanding citizen who loved animals and nature. He was the true meaning of a Christian and was the ultimate gift to this earth from God.
     Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, 2013, at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Sister Lakes. A meal will follow.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Langeland Memorial Chapel of Kalamazoo.
 
Ronnie Gale Willoughby, 63, of Paw Paw passed away suddenly Thursday, Oct. 17, 2013, at his home.
     Ronnie was born May 3, 1950, in Wardell, Mo., to James and Virginia (Phillips) Willoughby. Ronnie married the former Mary Farley on Nov. 13, 1981, and she survives along with two daughters, Ronda (Boyd Jr.) Bottenfield of Rice, Va. and Lisa Lee of Holland; a son, Ronnie Willoughby Jr. of Dowagiac; five grandchildren: Danielle, Doolie, Abigayle, Juliana and Josi; and one great- grandchild, Bentley. Ronnie is also survived by his mother, Virginia Willoughby of
Hartford; a brother, Rickey Willoughby of Watervliet; and three sisters: Gwendolyn (Creight Jr.) Smith of Coloma, Pamela Willoughby of Kalamazoo and Carol Anchor of Hartford. His father, James, preceded him in passing.
     The family will welcome friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 21, at the Calvin Funeral Home in
Hartford
, where the service to honor his memory will take place at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 22, with Deacon Arthur Morsaw officiating. Burial will follow in Keeler Cemetery, Keeler Township. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations in Ronnie’s name be made to either the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association. Those wishing to leave condolences for the family may do so on our web site at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

NOTE:  Ronnie was from the 1971 class of Hartford High School.
 

Duane William McGuire, 67 of McNeil, Arkansas passed away on Tuesday, October 15, 2013 at Magnolia Regional Medical Center.
     He was born on November 23, 1945 in Paw Paw, Michigan to the late David and Jane (Palmer) McGuire and attended Hartford High School [1963 graduate].
     He was a veteran serving with the SeaBees in the United States Navy during Vietnam. He was a master millwright for Brox Industries in Lawton, Oklahoma and Brown and Root in Red Rock, and a member of the 4 States Iron Munchers Blacksmith Association.
     He is preceded in death by his parents, a sister Mary Webber of Hartford, Michigan; and Rita’s daughter MargRyn Kinard Schomburg.
     Duane is survived by his wife Rita Kinard McGuire of McNeil; two daughters, Theresa Byard of McNeil, Stacia Powers and husband Robert of Lawton, Oklahoma; grandson Cody Byard of Arlington, Texas; granddaughter Starsha Powers of Lawton, Oklahoma; two great grandchildren, Kenneth Hutchinson and Ethan Wykoff both of Lawton; and two nieces Crystal and Vanessa of Michigan. Duane is also survived by Rita’s family, her son, Lewis Kinard and wife Dawn of Dallas and their children, Adam Kinard of Dallas and Brittany Kinard Jones and husband Daniel of Austin; her sisters, Sarah Roberts of Arkadelphia, Arkansas; Eloise Steele Ellis of Austin, Texas; and Carol Thomas of West Memphis, Arkansas and a host of extended family and friends.
     A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2013 at 1:00 pm at Lewis Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Mike Daniel officiating with a visitation with the family following the service. Memorials may be made to South Arkansas Youth Services, Columbia County Animal Protection Society, or Asbury United Methodist Church.
 

Margaret Kabel Hammond passed peacefully Monday, Oct. 14, 2013, in Grass Valley, Calif. A longtime resident of Hartford, Mich., Margaret moved to California in 1999 to be nearer her daughter, granddaughters and great-grandchildren.
     Margaret was born in Hartford on Dec. 5, 1918, and, with the exception of the years spent earning her bachelor’s degree at Western Michigan College (now university), was a resident of Van Buren County for the first 80 years of her life.
     Mrs. Hammond spent many of those years teaching business classes to high school students in Bridgman, Decatur, Lawton, Lawrence and, for many years, at Hartford High School. Margaret’s career in education began at the age of 20, and her role as teacher evolved into that of teacher-counselor­advocate-mentor for many of her students spanning the next 35 years. Although retired for the last 39 years, Margaret still heard from past students who had continued a loving and respectful friendship with her over the years.
     Margaret was an active member of Hartford Methodist Church throughout her adult life, retaining her church affiliation even after her move to California. She has now “come home” again and will be remembered at a memorial service at 11 a.m. Nov. 7 at Hartford Methodist Church, followed by a luncheon served by the United Methodist Women in the church’s community room. Internment will be in Maple Hill Cemetery.
     Margaret is survived by her daughter, Christine (Hugh) Casey of Nevada City, Calif.; and granddaughters, Keirsten (Adam) Quest of Fresno, Calif., and Grant (Jeb) Taylor of Davis, Calif. She was also blessed with five great-grandchildren: Scout, Sage, Jade, Xander and Morgan Phoenix. Cherished nieces, nephews and cousins completed her circle of beloved family. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a nonprofit of choice.

NOTE:  Margaret was a 1935 Hartford High School graduate
 

Ken “Pete” Jordan, 77, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2013, at Royalton Manor in St. Joseph.
     A lifelong resident of Hartford, he married the former Judy Kopus at the Federated Church on April 25, 1964, in Hartford. For the next 49 years they shared their love for each other as they worked together to enjoy a very good life.
     Ken was a
1955
graduate of Hartford High School, and served eight years in the Michigan National Guard. For 34 years, he worked for the Sanitary Refuse Co. In 2001, Ken retired from Best Way Disposal. His retirement lasted only two weeks before he decided to return to Best Way where he worked part-time for another 10 years before fully retiring in 2011.
     One of Ken’s favorite pastimes was attending tractor shows and seeing his favorite John Deere equipment on display. And, though he loved all things John Deere, he also reserved a place in his heart for Allis Chalmers and Farmall tractors.
     Along with his wife, Judy, Ken is survived by two sisters: Shirley (Larry) Anchor of Hartford and Betty Jordan of Dowagiac; three brothers: Roger Jordan of Bridgman, Tom (Lois) Jordan of Coloma and Bill (Darlene) Jordan of Hartford; brother-in­law Larry Rinehart of Mattawan and sister-in­law Barbara (Dave) Jorgensen of Ohio.
     He is also survived by eighteen nieces and nephews, many of whom fondly remember the family reunions when their Uncle Ken hitched a wagon to a tractor and let them all pile in for a ride around the farm. Thirty-five great nieces and nephews also survive.
     Ken was preceded in death by his parents:
Joseph and Lilah Jordan, sister Pat Rinehart, sisters­in law Laurel Jordan and Carol Kopus, father-in-law Tony Kopus and mother­in- law Betty Kopus.
     The Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford is in charge of arrangements, where visitation will be Sunday, Oct. 13, from 2-4 p.m. and from 6-8 p.m. A memorial service will be at the funeral home Monday, Oct. 14, at 11 a.m. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or to Hospice at Home. Interment will be at Maple Hill Cemetery in Hartford. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so at http:// www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
 

 

Michael Eugene Augusta-Lewis, 59, of Dowagiac passed away Oct. 7, 2013, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph. He was born May 9, 1954, in Hartford to James and Mary (Alexis) Lewis.
     The family will gather with friends Thursday, Oct. 10, 2013, at Clark Chapel, 405 Center St., Dowagiac, from 5 p.m. until time of a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. His funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Fri­day, Oct. 11, 2013, at the chapel. Burial will be in Sacred Heart of Mary Cemetery. Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of Michael at www.clarkchapel.com.

Deborah K. Wolford, 52, of Hartford passed away at home Saturday, Oct. 5, 2013, surrounded by her family and friends.
     Deb was born Aug. 24, 1961, and had lived most of her life in the area. Members of her family include her siblings: Charles “Pete” Fisher, Doris Davis, Jerry Fisher, Roger Fisher and Judy
Nalepa (Jeff Brown); her mother, Pearl Fisher; a very special grandson, Camden Wolford; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father A.J. Fisher; her brother, Bill Fisher; her husband, Danny Wolford; and her daughter,
Trinity Wolford.
     Family and friends will be celebrating Deb’s life at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 12, 2013 at Full Gospel Apostolic Church, 32560 56th Ave., Paw Paw. Those planning on making an expression of sympathy are asked to consider donating in the name of Camden Wolford at Chemical Bank. Please feel free to visit Deb’s personal page at www.lifestorynet.com, where you can archive a favorite mem­ory or photo of her, and sign her online guest book.
     Arrangements are by Life Story Funeral Homes, Betzler
& Thompson, Paw Paw; (800) 822-7594.

 

John Winton Erwin, Professor Emeritus of Geophysics, University of Nevada, Reno, died in Reno, Nevada on October 3, 2013, of Alzheimer’s disease.
     A native of Chicago, Illinois, John was born March 7, 1924 of John Clarey Erwin and Jeanie Winton Erwin. In 1935, the family moved from Chicago to a farm near Keeler, Michigan. Erwin attended Keeler schools and graduated from Hartford High School [class of 1942], Hartford, Michigan, as salutatorian of the class of 1942. He enlisted and served with the U.S. Marine Corps during 1943 to 1946. On April 15, 1946 he married his high school sweetheart Patricia Young of Hartford, Michigan. They were wed sixty-one years until Patty’s death in October 2007. John earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics from Michigan Technological University, Houghton, Michigan, in 1949. He earned his Masters in Geophysics from the Colorado School of Mines, Golden, Colorado, in 1954.
     Following graduation from the Colorado School of Mines, John worked for Dow Chemical Company in Midland, Michigan. Later, he and Patty loaded up the kids and headed west to Salt Lake City, Utah, where John was employed by American Smelting & Refining Company, working on mineral exploration programs in Arizona, Missouri, Nevada, Utah and other western states. In 1961, he was employed by Hercules Aerospace Company in Salt Lake City, Utah, as part of the design team for the Sprint anti-ballistic missile.
     In 1964, John joined the faculty of the Mackay School of Mines of the University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada, as a professor of geophysics and as a researcher with the Nevada Bureau of Mines and Geology. On his retirement in June 1985, he was named Professor Emeritus. Professor Erwin published numerous works in the geophysical field. After his retirement from UNR he continued to teach mathematics at Truckee Meadows Community College and Western Nevada Community College.
     John was the first in his family to graduate from college. He valued and encouraged education as evidenced by the twenty-four (and counting) college, graduate and doctoral degrees earned by his children and grandchildren, eight of the degrees being awarded by the University of Nevada.
     John was a registered engineer in the State of Nevada, a member of the American Institute of Mining, Metallurgical, and Petroleum Engineers, the Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration, the Arizona Geological Society, the Geological Society of Nevada (serving as Chairman in 1969), and the Marina Bay Yacht Club, Richmond, California. Proud of his service as a United States Marine, he belonged to the Navy League and was a life member of the American Legion. For many years he was a member of the Masonic Golden Lodge F & AM/50, St. John’s Presbyterian Church and the First Congregational Church, Reno, NV.
     He enjoyed his retirement sailing and traveling with Patty and sharing geography field trips with his grandchildren with stops for the culinary delights of the Owl Cafe in Battle Mountain and The Griddle in Winnemucca. He also enjoyed lunches at the Gold ‘N Silver Inn with fellow engineers geologists Jim Bright, Bob Horton, Bill Johnston, Ed Rugg and other professionals in the mining industry.
     John was predeceased by his wife Patricia in 2007. He is survived by son James W. Erwin and grandson Jeffrey Erwin, grandson Patrick (Nikki) Erwin (great grandchildren Hunter and Taylor), granddaughter Camille (Kory) Wilson (expecting a boy in January), and granddaughter Nicole (Brian) Johansen (great grandchildren Makayla, Trenton, Tate and Maxwell); son Thomas P. (Molly) Erwin and grandson Philip Erwin, step grandson Paul (Jessie) Kerschen (great granddaughter Rosalind), and step granddaughter Ann (Jason) Wild; son John A. (Sherri) Erwin and granddaughter Rebecca (Jesse) Adams (great grandchildren Aidan and Geneva), granddaughter Marie (Shawn) Lear (great grandchildren Jordan and Maxwell), grandson Scott (Bridget) Erwin, and granddaughter Kathryn (Jonathan) Dethmers; daughter Susan M. (Brian) Buckley and granddaughter Anne Buckley, granddaughter Katherine Buckley, and grandson John Buckley; and daughter Debra A. (Pete) Padgett and granddaughter Melissa Padgett and grandson David (Megan) Padgett (great grandson Nolan), and former daughters-in-law Cheryl L. Ehrke and Michelle F. Hall.
     His family appreciates the fine care provided to John by Dr. Ronald L. Smith and the caregivers at Emeritus. We also thank the many kind folks at the Gold ‘N Silver Inn who welcomed our Dad thousands of times during the past five decades.
     A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Friday, October 25, 2013, at Mountain View Mortuary, 435 Stoker Avenue, Reno, Nevada. A Military Internment Service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday October 26, 2013 at Mountain View Cemetery. Contact Mountain View Mortuary for details 775 788-2199.
     In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorials may be made in John’s name to the Mackay School of Earth Sciences and Engineering, Mail Stop 162, University of Nevada, Reno 89557.

Published in Reno Gazette-Journal from Oct. 20 to Oct. 22, 2013

 

DOUGLAS, Mich. — Donald (Don) Paul Trowbridge Sr., 65, passed away Oct. 1, 2013, peacefully with loved ones by his side after fighting a long illness.
     He was born Dec. 6, 1947, in Paw Paw to Claude and Dora (Riddle) Trowbridge Sr. Don graduated from Hartford High School in 1967. Don would later marry Jean
Molter, and of that union there were five children. They lived and raised their children in Coloma, where he was member of the Masonic Lodge. Later in life Don would retire to live in Covert, where he continued membership of the Masonic Lodge in the Covert.
     Don is survived by two daughters: Richlie (Darryl) Fikes of Benton Harbor and Michella Buetow of Bridgman; a son, Don Trowbridge Jr. of Bridgman; eight grandchildren that he loved and adored; four sisters: Claudette Prevatte of Kalamazoo, Nancy (Warren) Walters of Battle Creek, Mary Williams of South Haven and Carol (Alfredo) Rivera of Ohio; and a host of nieces and nephews, including one special and cherished niece, Deborah (Billy) Pierce of Covert.
     He was preceded in death by his parents, four sisters, one brother and two beloved sons, James (Jimmy) in 1992 and Jon in 2007.
Cremation has taken place, and there are no services to announce at this time.
     Don was truly loved and will be dearly missed every single day by all who knew him.

 

Joan Elder Scouller, 11/14/1925 – 9/26/2013, passed away peacefully at her home in the Country Club at La Cholla, Tucson, AZ under the care of Casa de la Luz Hospice.
     She is survived by her son, John, and wife Anna Mae Scouller, of Santa Clarita, California, two grandsons, Robert Sean and Brendon Ray Scouller, a brother Stewart Elder and wife Irene Elder, and several nieces and nephews. She was pre-deceased by her husband Donald Scouller in 2009.

     Joan was born in Detroit, Michigan to James and Caroline Elder where she resided until 1929 when the family moved to Hartford, Michigan where they lived during the depression years in the home of her uncle, Dr. John D. Stewart. She completed high school in 1943 and then in 1948 she graduated with a BS degree in Occupational Therapy from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, MI. She joined the Army in 1949 and was commissioned an officer in the newly formed Women’s Medical Specialist Corps. She was assigned to Beumont Army Hospital in El Paso TX. It was here that she met Don Scouller who was also an Army officer stationed at Fort Bliss. They were married on Dec 7th, 1950 in LasCruces, NM. She was discharged from the Army in 1953. They moved to San Diego in 1954, where they spent the next 40 years until moving to Tucson, AZ.   Son, John M. Scouller, was born on December 2, 1958. In 1961 Joan became an Elementary School teacher in San Diego City Schools. In 1969 she earned a Masters degree and then became a Television Resource teacher for all of the San Diego City Schools. A Union Tribune article once featured her in this role. She loved to travel and became a travel agent, which augmented her travel experience including a trip around the world and many other trips abroad especially to England where she had many friends.  They moved to Sun City Vistoso, Az. in 1993 and she became very active in community clubs and theatrical activities including learning to tap dance. After Don’s death she moved to her retirement home at La Cholla.
     A memorial service was held at Sun City and she will be inurned at Fort Rosecrans, San Diego on November 8th at 2:30 pm.

 

Ronald M. Smithley, 79, of Hartford ascended into Heaven on Monday morning, Sept. 23, 2013, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph.
     Ron, as he was known by most, was born Nov. 24, 1933, in Marion, Ind., the son of Melvin and Agnes (Herreld) Smithley. During the Depression, Ron spent 18 months in the Mary Freebed Rehab Home in Grand Rapids. On Aug. 22, 1953, he married the former Dorothy Downs. For many years they owned and operated the Ron-Dot Floral Shop in Hartford. Ron was a longtime and faithful member of Hartford Federated Church, and he liked to hunt and travel, especially going up to the Mackinac Bridge.
     Ron is survived by his children: Mark (Donna) Smithley and Gregg Smithley both of Hartford; five grandchildren: Brandon Smithley of St. Louis, Mo.; Daniel Smithley of Niles; Toni Smithley of Flint; and Tyler Smithley and Brier Smithley, both of Hartford; 11 great-grandchildren: Khole, Brooke, Danyelle, Dirk, Nastasia, Alex, Lilly, Alex, Aiden, Katierra and Camron; a sister, Janie (Larry) Wetzel of Hartford; and a sister-in-law, Kaye Smithley of Benton Harbor.
     Ron was preceded in passing by his wife,
Dorothy, in 2010; his parents; two sisters, Louise Robinson-Glidden and Peggy Johnson; and three brothers: Ed, James and Roy Smithley.
     As to Ron’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service to honor Ron’s memory will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 4, at Hartford Federated Church with Pastor David Gilbert officiating. Burial of Ron’s and Dot’s ashes will be in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Memorials may be made to the church.
     The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling arrangements. Those wishing to leave messages of condolences for Ron’s family may do so at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
 

Aage Woodrow Larsen, 91, of Hartford went to be with is Lord and Savior on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2013 at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph.
Aage was born Feb. 22, 1922, in Benton Harbor, the son of Aage and Ruth (Sturm) Larsen, both of whom preceded him in passing. He was also preceded in passing by his wife, Hildreth; a daughter, Renee; a brother, Wayne; devoted partner and friend, Evelyn Pawling; and two sons-in-law, Jerry Thompson and Bill Groenke.
Aage proudly served his country as a member of the
United States Navy during World War II. He was formerly employed with New Products of Benton Harbor and the Watervliet Paper Mill from 1940-1956. After leaving there, he worked in the construction field for the remainder of his working life. He was a big sports fanatic, especially as a die­hard fan of the Detroit Lions and Detroit Tigers. He was a member of VFW Post 355, American Legion Post 93 and AmVets. In his spare time, he loved fishing and keeping his yard looking nice.
     Aage was a beloved father, who is survived by three children: Lawrence “Larry” (Robyn) Larsen of Hartford, Denise Groenke of Eau Claire and Brian (Ann) Larsen of Coloma; and family friend, Mary Pawling of Kalamazoo. He was a loving grandfather of numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
     The family will welcome friends 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 18, at Hartford Federated Church, where he was a loyal member. The service to honor his memory will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, at the church, with Pastor David Gilbert officiating. Cremation will take place, and burial at a later date will occur in Watervliet Cemetery. The family requests memorial donations in Aage’s name to the church or any veterans’ charity. The family has entrusted Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangements. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences in Aage’s name may do so at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
Sandra Marie Jones Avery, 69, of Hartford passed away Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2013, at Rose Arbor in Kalamazoo. She was born Oct. 2, 1943, in Washington, D.C., the fifth of eight children born to William Gilbert Jones and Esther Marie (Hill) Jones.
     She graduated from L.C. Mohr High School in South Haven in 1963. Overcoming barriers to African-American women in education, she graduated as a registered nurse, earned a Critical Care Nursing Certificate and a business management degree.
     She was a devoted mother to her two daughters, enjoying each stage of development from mud pies and tea parties to climbing trees and catching fireflies. Through example she taught her daughters the importance of hard work, obtaining a good education and using both in service to others.
     Her career spanned 36 years in obstetrics and critical care nursing at Watervliet and South Haven community hospitals. She rose to interim director of nursing at Watervliet Community Hospital.
     Sandra served 28 years on the board of directors for
MARCHA and 14 years as president of Rural Initiatives for Shelter and Education. Her tenure spanned the construction of SunRISE apartments, an innovative housing option for seasonal workers. Her influential work in migrant health was recognized by Patricia Harris, secretary of Health and Human Services, who appointed Sandra to the Council to Federal Office of Migrant Health.
     She is survived by daughters: Sheanetta M. Jones of Burlington, N.C.; and Dr. Bernetta L. Avery-DeNyse and son-in-law Gavin J. De-Nyse, both of Portland, Ore.; grandchildren: Aaron Avery and Chyenne Clements, and Jameson DeNyse and Sophia DeNyse; a sister, Diedre Stuart of Dallas, Texas; brothers: Bertram Jones of Hartford and Vernon Jones of Ponchatoula, La; and daughter-in-law, Sharon Avery Overhiser of South Haven. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Charles M. Avery; four siblings and a grandchild.
     A funeral Mass will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013, at Immaculate Conception Church in Hartford, with Father Robert Flickinger presiding. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Sandra M. Avery Memorial Scholarship, a scholarship established for young women pursuing a nursing career focused on migrant health. Donations can be sent to 3225 SW 87th Ave., #25509, Portland, OR 97298-0842.

 
Norma June Williams, 82, of Greenwood, Ark. (formerly of Hartford MI), passed away Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2013, in a Fort Smith, Ark., hospital.
     She was a retired certified nursing assistant and member of the Community Free Will Baptist Church in Pocola, Okla. She was preceded in death by her husband, Horace Williams, and one son, James O. Williams.
     Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Monday, Sept. 16, 2013, at McConnell Funeral Home Chapel in Greenwood, Ark., with burial in Old Jenny Lind Cemetery. Viewing will be from 1-8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home, where the family will visit with friends from 2-4 p.m.
     She is survived by five sons: Bill Williams and Roger Dale Williams, both of Paw Paw, Mich.; Jerry Lynn Williams and Allen D. Williams, both of Fort Smith, Ark.; and Christopher A. Williams of Greenwood, Ark.; one daughter, Carol Ann
Salverson of Paw Paw; 15 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
     To sign an online guest book, please visit www.mc­connellfh.com.
 
HARTFORD — Zachary Brian Leitz stepped out of his earthly body and into the loving arms of his heavenly Father on Monday, Sept. 9, 2013.
     
Zachary’s life began May 11, 1990 in St. Joseph.
     He grew up in Watervliet, graduating from Watervliet High School in 2008. While in high school Zachary was a member of the marching band who proudly marched at the Pontiac Silverdome and on Ford Field for the state competition four consecutive years. Zachary recently went to work for Chassix in Stevensville. He loved filling his time with music, writing, gathering with his amazing friends, and hanging with his siblings.
     His loving family includes: his parents Gregory Leitz of Coloma and Barbara (Peter) McKeon of Spring Lake, MI; three siblings Jeremy Tuttle, Jacob Leitz, and Rachel Leitz; three nieces Abigail, Cameron, and Skylar Tuttle; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Zachary is preceded in death by his grandparents Alan and Elaine Leitz and Clifford and Marie Hinton and an aunt Paula Robertson.
     Funeral services will be celebrated Friday, September 13, at 11:00 AM at River of Life Church in Watervliet. Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet is assisting Zachary’s family with arrangements.
      Zachary stepped out of his earthly body and into the loving arms of his Heavenly Father on Monday, September 9th, 2013. Zach, we love you like crazy and will miss you until we see you again.
September 10, 2013
Herald Palladium
by Staff

Fatal crash shuts down EB I-94 lanes

Hartford man killed after his car crosses median, lands on other car

BENTON TOWNSHIP — A 23-year-old Hartford man died Monday after he lost control of his car, which crossed the I-94 median, went airborne and landed upside down on the roof of a car traveling in the opposite direction.

Benton Township police re­ported that Brian Zachary Leitz died from injuries suffered in the accident, which occurred at 2:45 p.m. near Exit 30 at Napier Avenue.

James Wilson, 64, of Plainwell, the other driver involved, suffered multiple, non-life threatening injuries and was transported to Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph by Medic 1.

Eastbound lanes between Exits 29 and 33 were closed most of Monday afternoon as police diverted vehicles onto the Napier Avenue exit.

Witnesses told police Leitz was driving his 2001 Mercury westbound when he lost control of the vehicle, which landed on Wilson’s 1999 Toyota. Both men were entrapped in their vehicles and had to be extricated.

The Benton Township Fire Department also responded to the scene, along with the Benton Township Police Accident Reconstruction Unit, the Michigan State Police and the Berrien County Sheriff’s Department

Robert Edson Shafer July 3, 1923 – September 5, 2013
     Born July 3, 1923 in Hartford, Michigan to Dell and Ruth Shafer, our father built a prosperous life that revolved around his love of the outdoors and adventuresome curiosity.
     As a Captain in the US Army Air Corps from 1942 – 46, he was stationed in both the United States and European Theatres of Operation. A member of the 441st Troop Carrier Group, he participated in the Normandy Invasion and was among the first American soldiers in Berlin after being dispatched to secure the Tempelhof airport in May of 1945.
     After the war, Robert moved to Alaska to pursue adventure and an education. He worked on the construction of the Alaska Highway as well as on gold mining dredges north of Fairbanks. In 1947, he and five friends set out to drive Jeeps along the Pan American Highway from Alaska to Argentina. He received a degree in mining engineering from the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where he met and married Elizabeth Donnelly, a registered nurse, in 1949.
     This fruit farmer and independent mining consultant grew his family to six children – Sharon Fessenden (Zef); Stephanie Shieldhouse (Richard); Patricia Badland (Charles); Martha Shea (Larry); Mark (Simona) and Matthew (Kendra) – and 10 grandchildren. After living in Alaska, Washington, Idaho, New York and South America, they settled their children in Lakeland, Florida.
     Mining took him overseas to six of the continents and over 50 countries around the world. Every summer, Robert and Elizabeth would pack up the kids and animals in the family station wagon to spend the summer in Hartford, Michigan, working the family fruit farm.
Lakeland was home for over 30 years, before moving to Tallahassee to be near children and grandchildren.
     Robert looked forward to every morning – to feel the parchment of the daily town paper, complete the crossword, enjoy novels and fill his retirement years with trips to the library, senior center, the grocer and daily walks around Lake Ella. In addition to his kids and grandkids, he is survived by his brother, Steve Shafer (Ginny).
     Robert’s internment will be held on Friday, September 27, 2013 at the Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell FL. Bevis Funeral Home, 850-385-2193, www.bevisfh.com, is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Note:  Robert was a Hartford High School graduate from the Class of 1940
.

 

Jean Marie Arant, 84, of Hartford passed away Sunday, Sept. 1, 2013, at Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, South Haven.
     Jean was born Nov. 26, 1928, in Benton Harbor, the daughter of William and Georgia (Tetsworth) Thornton, both of whom preceded her in passing. She was also preceded in passing by her husband, Lester Arant Sr.; two daughters, Norma Jean Watkins and Lois Marie Robinson; a longtime companion, Cleatus Beckman; four brothers; Norman, Bill, John and Jim Thornton; a sister, Nona Paviolous; a grandson, Ray Watkins; a granddaughter, Tonya Collins; and a great­grandson, Joseph Jim Alsup.
     Jean worked for the Williams Brothers Paper Box Factory in St. Joseph and VM Corp. in Benton Harbor. She loved attending church at Full Gospel Assembly Church in Hartford. But most important, she loved spending time with her family, loved playing with her dog, Tiny, and baking.
     Jean is survived by a son, Lester Arant Jr. of Hartford; five stepchildren: Rick Beckman, Phil Beckman and Cherrie Collins, all of Hartford; Cindy (Tom) Murdoch of Colorado; and Janice Schaub of Eau Claire; 16 grandchildren: Stephanie (Shannon) True­love of Hartford; Lester (Andrea) Arant of Warrensburg, Mo.; Brandon Arant and Jeffrey Robinson, both of Coloma; Douglas Robinson of Tennessee; Tina Clark of Arkansas; Kathy Sharpe of Benton Harbor; Sherrie Alridge, Ralph Watkins and Richard Watkins, all of Tennessee; Billy Collins, Shawn Collins and Brendan Collins, all of Coloma; Bri­anne Leone of Colorado; Jessica Crump of Logansville, Ga.; and Jennifer Venno of Stevensville; seven great-grandchildren: Lois, Samantha, Breanna, Zach, Daniel, Ashley and Jonathan; and two brothers: Donald Thornton and Larry (Janet) Thornton, both of Coloma.
     The family will welcome friends 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 4, at Full Gospel As­sembly Church, Hartford, where the service to honor her memory will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 5. Pas­tor Shannon Truelove will officiate. Burial will follow in North Shore Memory Gardens, Hagar Township. Memorial donations in Jean’s name may be made to Full Gospel Assembly Church. The family has entrusted Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences to the family may do so at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

 
Mrs. Ingrid Sybilla Mueller Bell of Augusta, Ga., formerly of Hartford, entered into rest Saturday, Aug. 31, 2013. She was 69 years old. She was born Nov. 25, 1943, in Bamberg, Germany, to Barbara and Joseph Mueller, who preceded her in passing.
     Mrs. Bell is survived by her husband of 51 years, Russell Bell; four children: Dwayne Bell, Barbara Einset (Philip Hercik), Robert Bell (Sarah) and Ingrid Kempf; six grandchildren: Bradley Bell, Spencer Bell, Kristen Einset, Hollee Hercik, Autumn Dees and Audrey Dees; and one great-grandchild, Odin Shepherd.
     Mrs. Bell was a member of the Waynesboro Church of God in Waynesboro, Ga. Prior to her retirement she worked for Avion Coach Co.
     The family will welcome friends from noon-1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6, at First General Baptist Church, Benton Harbor, where the service to honor her memory will be at 1 p.m. Pastor Jim Dunn will officiate. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford.
     Those wishing to make memorial donations may do so to the National Parkinson’s Foundation. The family has entrusted Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so at www.calvinleonardfh.com.

 
 

Richard Lee Murphey, of Cadillac, passed away Friday, August 30, 2013, at Munson Medical Center with his wife by his side. He was 71.  He was born November 26, 1941, in Chicago, to Chester and Louise (Jackson) Murphey. Richard was married to Carol Ann Miller of Lake City on March 31, 2012, in Jennings, Mich. Richard was owner of the Village Market in Fruitport, Mich., for eight years. He also worked as a manger for Kroger in Muskegon and Hart and was manager for Pick ‘n Save in Cadillac. Richard worked as a sales representative for Melody Farms Dairy before retirement and had the privilege of traveling beautiful Northern Michigan in his work. He loved cooking, gardening, woodworking, going to the casino and taking care of his beautiful yard. He was an avid Detroit Tiger baseball and Detroit Red Wing hockey fan. He also enjoyed deer hunting, snowmobiling and he loved going to NASCAR races. Dick spoke often of the Boy Scout camping trip to Colorado as a young boy.
     Dick, along with his father, built the family home in the 1960s. Richard enjoyed sharing morning coffee with his friends at a local café and could be seen almost daily chatting with old friends at local grocery stores, the business that was a big part of his life for many years. Dick was loved and enjoyed by his neighbors.
     Richard is survived by his wife, Carol Ann Miller-Murphey; daughter, Sandi (Duane) Morton of Twin Lake, Mich.; grandson, Joshua Doerr; granddaughters: Heather Murphey and Zayah Vanderlaan; daughter-in-law, Sara Henry; step-daughters: Kimberli Carr, Kelli Battig and Kari Martin.
     He was preceded in death by his father, Chester Murphey mother, Louise Murphey; son, Shawn Murphey; sister, Linda Norden; and his wife, Janet Murphey.
     In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place and memorial services will be held at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, September 10, 2013, at the Hitesman-Holdship Funeral Home, with visitation one hour prior to the service. Pastor Larry Shetenhelm will officiate.
     Memorial contributions may be directed to the Jennings Community Church Building Fund or the Diabetes Foundation. Please share condolences with the family online at www.hitesman-holdship.com.
    
The family is being served by the Hitesman-Holdship Funeral Home.


NOTE:  Richard was a 1961 Hartford High School graduate.

Debra Carol Parker Whipple was born in Fort Knox, Kentucky to Carol LeRoy and Ruby Maxine Parker.
     Debra was a member of the Vineyard Church-Pearland, where she served as the administrative assistant. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister and friend. She served in God’s kingdom through how she lived her life as well as being active in the Living Waters program, women’s ministry, prayer teams, outreach, out of country mission trips and coordinating numerous church activities.
     Debra leaves to continue her legacy of love, her husband, Patrick Joseph Whipple, two sons, Justin Michael Jonns and wife Samantha and Joshua David Jonns; two step sons, Dustin Whipple and Peter Whipple; father Carol Parker and mother Ruby Parker, brother Michael Lee Parker and wife Debra, sister Kimberly Parker Conner and husband JD Conner and brother Mark Darrin Parker and wife Christine; grandchildren Aubrey Jonns, Jordan Jonns, Jackson Whipple, Joey Whipple and Emerson Baker. Debra is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends
     The celebration of life memorial service will be Wednesday, August 28, 2013 from 7:00 – 9:00 pm with reception following at the Vineyard Church of Houston, 1035 E. 11th St., Houston, TX 77009. In lieu of floral tributes, memorial donations may be made in honor of Debra Carol Whipple to the Vineyard Church-Pearland, P.O. Box 1577, Pearland, TX 77588-1577, Building Fund.

NOTE:  Debra was Miss Hartford 1972 and a 1972 Hartford High School graduate.

Thomas William Smith, 69, of Hartford passed away Aug. 25, 2013, in Augusta, Ga., after a sudden illness. Tom was born July 27, 1944, and graduated from Hartford High School in 1962. Tom was a proud father of three children and grandfather of three (with one more on the way).
     Tom was a longtime resident of Stevensville and was employed in the home improvement industry in Southwest Michigan for many years. He recently had moved to Carrollton, Ga.
     He was known for his kindness, fun-loving personality, deep love for his family and strong loyalty to his friends. Tom was devoted to helping others; this was evident from the many years he devoted to caring for his widowed mother.
     He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald Ellsworth (1985) and Mildred (Voight) Smith (2009); his son, Gregory Smith (1981); and oldest brother, Donald Smith (2006). Tom is survived by his loving partner, Ruth Ellen Wilkens of Georgia; a son, Jonathan (Miyuki) Smith of Hawaii; a daughter, Michelle (Timothy) Criscuolo of Virginia; grandchildren: Danielle, Mathew and Nicholas; his sisters and brothers: Joanne Monaghen of Wisconsin; Robert (Janis) Smith of Florida; Debra (Bill Strunk) Smith of California; Michael (Denelle Duncombe) Smith of Texas; and Laurel Smith of Arizona; and a sister-in-law, Roberta Smith of Michigan.
     He will be missed by everyone, including his aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends.
     Tom’s ashes will be interred next to his son, Gregory, at Spring Run Cemetery.
     To honor Tom’s wishes, a celebration of his life hosted by his siblings will be from 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, 2013, at the Fraternal Order of Police, 3470 Angling Road, Coloma.
 
Ralph Kemp of Watervliet died Thursday, Aug. 22, 2013, at Countryside Nursing Home in South Haven.
     Ralph’s life began April 19, 1936, in Hartford. He spent his life in the area, attending elementary school at Holly Community School and then graduating from Covert High School. Ralph enjoyed farming and growing specialties. He also liked wood crafting or carving and his cats, dogs and cows. Ralph was a farmer by trade, but also drove trucks, transporting vegetables and fruit to market for himself and his neighbors.

     Ralph leaves behind a loving family, including a sister: Evelyn Kemp of Hartford; two brothers: Kenneth (Helen) Kemp of South Haven and Harold Raymond (Marilyn) Kemp of California; six nieces and nephews; and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth, and his parents, Harold and Myrtle (Parsons) Kemp.
     Friends may visit with Ralph’s family from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 25, at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet, where funeral services will be celebrated at 2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 26. Burial will follow in Watervliet City Cemetery.

 
Jeanine Caudill, 78, of Hartford, formerly of Blue Island and Alsip, Ill., died Aug. 21, 2013, at her home. She was born Nov. 9, 1934, to Elsie and Clarence Reuss in Harvey, Ill. She married Larry Caudill in 1956. She worked in the trucking industry for 40 years. Jeanine and Larry were very passionate about the water and spent many happy years on the river.
     In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Larry, in 2001; her brother, Clarence “Bus” Reuss; and her sister, Gayle Holste.
     Jeanine is survived by her children: Lisa (Andy) Gorenz of South Haven; David (Mary) Caudill of Midloithian, Ill.; and Kimberly Johnston of South Chicago Heights, Ill.; seven grandchildren: Heather, Jacob, Daniel, Jonathan, Robert, Keli (David) and Hahna; five great-grandchildren: Noah, Kailey, Hailey, Kali and Logan; and one brother, Robert (Sandy) Ruess of Presque Isle, Wis.
     No services are scheduled at this time. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St, Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com (6370333).

 
Fern L. (Cook) Hardt, age 89 of Oak Lawn IL, died August 13, 2013.
     She was the devoted daughter of Orin & Margaret Cook.  Fern was the beloved wife of the late Elmer Hardt and loving mother of Adair (Ralph) Banta, Gloria (Joe) Senden, Dale (Mary Ann ) Hardt, Terry Hardt & Lynn (Tom) Jareczek. She was also the proud grandmother of 14 & great grandmother of 18.  She was the cherished friend and companion of Richard Slovick and the treasured aunt of many nieces & nephews.
     Fern was preceded in death by her parents, husband Elmer Hardt, and sisters Lois Zepik & Rowena Hayden.
Fern was a longtime member of Oak Lawn Seniors, Trinity Seniors, active member of the Nutrition Center of Oak Lawn/Hometown.     
     Visitation Friday from 3:00 pm until 9:00 pm at Thompson & Kuenster Funeral Home, 5570 W. 95th St. in Oak Lawn. Lying in State Saturday at Trinity Lutheran Church, 9701 S. Brandt Ave. in Oak Lawn from 10:00 am with a service at 11:00 am. Interment Chapel Hill Gardens South Cemetery.

NOTE:  Fern would have graduated from Hartford High School in 1942 but moved to Chicago a couple of years earlier.
 
Carl Zirk, Jenison MI, formerly of Hartford, passed away August 13, 2013 at University Hospital in Ann Arbor MI.  Carl is survived by his wife, Connie Melville Zirk.  He was a 1960 Hartford High School graduate

Lisa McNees Clark, age 45 of Deltona FL, formerly of Hartford MI, passed away August 8, 2013 in Orange City FL.  She was born March 4, 1968 in Watervliet MI. 
     Lisa is survived by her husband, Adam; stepmother, Virginia McNees of Riverside MI; two sisters; Tami (David) Kuhm of Pittsburgh PA; Charity (Chris) Cummins of Hartford; and a brother, Travis McNees of Decatur MI; stepsister, Jennifer (Alan) Knapp of Virginia; grandmother Jane McNees of Riverside, an uncle Ron McNees of Riverside; four nephews and three nieces.. 
     Preceding Lisa in death was her mother, Janice Yeckley McNees Pyburn in 2013 and her father, James McNees in 2008.
     Lisa was 1st runner up in the 1986 Miss Hartford Contest and a 1986 Hartford High School graduate. She served in the US Navy after high school.
     Lisa will be very much missed by her family and all the friends she leaves behind in FL and the many, many friends she leaves behind in Hartford. She was dedicated, kind, and compassionate to everyone she knew.
     A memorial service will be at noon Saturday, Sept. 7, 2013, at Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford.
 

Lowell "Ted" Arden Sonnenberg, 80, of Jackson, formerly of Benton Harbor, died Aug. 4, 2013, at Hospice Home in Jackson.
    
Born Nov. 14, 1932, in Benton Harbor to Arthur and Rachel Sonnenberg, Ted attended Benton Harbor High School and graduated from Benton Harbor Community College in 1953. On May 23, 1955, he married Harriet Ann Settle of Salem, Ind. Ted lived in the Benton Harbor and Berrien County area most of his life and worked at Ross Carrier Co. and Clark Equipment Co. in Benton Harbor from 1950 until retiring in 1980.
     Survivors include his wife, Harriet Ann; four children: Michael Sonnenberg of Lexington, Ky.; Susan Bauer of Stevensville; and twins Tim Sonnenberg of Jackson and Ted Sonnenberg of Leslie, Mich; six grandchildren: Patrick, Rachel, Teddy, Kristen, Cameron and Gil; one great-grandchild, Ashton; and his sister, Lois Ingram of Reed City, Mich.
     An immediate family memorial service was held at the Hospice Home in Jackson, where he was cremated and his ashes scattered at one of his favorite hunting spots.
     The family wishes to thank Arbor Woods Assisted Living, Hospice Home and Allegiance Health in Jackson for their care and support.
     Condolences may be sent to Ann Sonnenberg, 125 Armstrong St., Leslie, MI 49251.

NOTE:  His twin sons, Tim and Ted, graduated from Hartford High School in 1980.
 

Connie S. Austin Loikits, 67, of Warsaw, Ind., died Tuesday, July 16, 2013, at home.
     Connie was born May 11, 1946, in Paw Paw to Volney and Pearl (Bridges) Austin. She graduated from Watervliet High School in 1965. She worked for several area businesses and lived for a few years in Florida before returning to Michigan, where she worked for Manpower Placement in St. Joseph for more than 20 years. She retired in 2012 as a senior staffer.
     Connie will be remembered for her feisty attitude and direct and candid remarks. She lived life with vigor and determination and faced death with courage and grace. Memories of her will be cherished. 
     Survivors include her companion, Dee Nuell of Warsaw; her companion’s mother, Iris Nuell of Warsaw; her companion’s sister, Joni Kinder of Warsaw; her son, Ron (Brenda) Warman of Stevensville; two grandsons, Nathan and Alex Warman; her brother, Ronnie (Connie) Austin of Hartford; two nephews, Casey Austin and Jeffrey Austin; a niece, Christina Austin; a sister-in-law, Judy (Roy) Stanfar; and a cousin, Joanne Reed.
     She was preceded in death by her parents and stepfather, Alden Bridges.
     A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or a charity of the donor’s choice.
     Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw is in charge of arrangements.

 
The Rev. Lyell George Smith of Phoenix, Ariz., entered Heaven on July 21, 2013, following a brief illness. He was 87. He is survived by his three children: Stephen Smith of Phoenix, Ariz.; Stephanie (Dave) Reese of Scottsdale, Ariz.; and Shari (Ed) Krasinski of West Bloomfield, Mich.; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
     Lyell was born Jan. 11, 1926, and fought in World War II with the Canadian Navy, serving as the ships’s radio operator. He graduated from Bob Jones University and served as the choral director for Youth for Christ. He later became pastor of Hartford Federated Church in Hartford, Mich. In the early 1970s he worked at Trans World Radio, generating support for missionaries serving overseas.
     Lyell was known for his outgoing personality, penchant for jokes and puns and commitment to ministry. God used Lyell to bring many souls to the Lord. His family will miss him dearly but takes comfort in the knowledge that they will be together again in Heaven.
     Funeral arrangements are private. In lieu of flowers, the family requests do­nations to Hospice of Ari­zona (www.ahhospicefoundation.org) or Billy Graham ministries (www.billygraham.org).

 

Clara Maurine Lightner Rosenbaum
, 95, of Bainbridge Township passed away peacefully Sunday, July 21, 2013, at home.
     Clara was born March 9, 1918, in Hartford to Gerard and Marie Lightner. She graduated from Watervliet High School in 1935, along with her future husband, Gordon Rosenbaum. They were married in 1936 and raised their family and farmed together on the family farm in Bainbridge.
     Clara was a member of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ for more than 60 years. She enjoyed collecting Depression glass and researching the family genealogy. She was a member of the Watervliet Literary Guild. She and Gordon enjoyed spending the winter months in Florida.
     She is survived by her husband; two sons: Gerald (Karen) Rosenbaum of Coloma and Lewis (Marilyn) Rosenbaum of St. Louis, Mo.; 11 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and two half-sisters: Connie Foster of Stevensville and Kay Gray of Dowagiac. In addition to her parents, Clara was preceded in death by a son, James; a brother, Lewis; and an uncle and aunt, Harrison and Jennie Balfour, who raised her.
     A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 24, 2013, at St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, 1650 N. Bainbridge Center Road, Watervliet. Visitation will be at the church beginning at 10 a.m. Interment will be in North Shore Memory Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the church, the American Cancer Society or Hospice at Home. Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet is assisting Clara’s family with arrangements.
 
Carol Ann Allen, 69, of El Cajon, Calif., formerly of Hartford, passed away peacefully Sunday, June 23, 2013, at Sharp Hospice Lakeview Home in La Mesa, Calif.
     Carol was born Feb. 20, 1944, in Watervliet, the daughter of Theodore and Ruth (Hamill) Phillips, both of whom preceded her in passing. Carol graduated from Hartford High School in 1962. In 1965, she married her life­long partner, Jerry Warren Allen, who survives.
     Carol also leaves behind three children: Sheila Allen and Shelly Allen, both of El Cajon; and Jeremiah “Jay” (Rhashayla) Allen of Lakeside, Calif.; two grandchildren, Elijah Allen, 6, and Jesiah Allen, 2; along with several brothers and sisters. In addition to raising three children, she worked as a CNA, including several years with Van Buren County Mental Health Services.
     In 2005, Carol and Jerry moved to the San Diego area, where they have spent the last several years enjoying the beautiful California sunshine. Carol loved spending time with her family and going on various outings, including drives to the beach, trips to the San Diego Zoo, The Wild Animal Park and harbor cruises on the Pacific Ocean.
     She will be forever loved and dearly missed by her friends and family. Messages of condolence can be left at http://carolallenremembered.blogspot.com.

 
C.A. Adams, 78, of Hartford passed away Thursday, July 18, 2013, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph.
     C.A. was born March 15, 1935, in Tomball, Texas, the son of Chester and Gertrude Adams, both of whom preceded him in passing.
     C.A. was one of the construction workers who built the launching pad at Cape Canaveral, Fla., for the Apollo Space program when Neal Armstrong and his crew were sent to the moon. He also worked at the Cook Nuclear Plant in Bridgman. He had a heart of gold and, as the expression goes, he would give his shirt off his back to anyone.
     C.A. married the former Carolyn Louise Slabaugh. She survives, along with his six children: Sandra (Frederick) Jacko, Carolyn Fitzpatrick, Charles (Bonnie) Adams, Terri (Roger) Morse, Paul Adams and Minor (Robin) Adams. He is also survived by 18 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; two brothers: Thomas (Eveline) Whidden and Sidney Adams; and a sister, Eloise Fischer.
     Cremation has taken place and a memorial celebration will be held at a later date. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford with the arrangements. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family can leave them on our website at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
 
Billy Ray Collins, 74, of Hartford passed away Thursday, July 18, 2013, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph, with his wife, children, grandchildren and other family members by his side.
     Billy was born Jan. 10, 1939, in Jonesboro, Ark., the son of Benjamin and Edith (Coy) Collins, both of whom preceded him in passing. Also preceding him in passing were a great-grandson, Ethan Paul Nelson; two brothers, Bobby and Woodrow Collins; and a sister, Bernice Derr.
     Bill was formerly employed with Auto Specialties until 1980 before retiring in 2010 from E.S. Enterprises of Hartford. He loved to fish, golf, watch NASCAR racing and care for his lawn, which he kept green, clean and pristine. But his most enjoyable moments were the times he spent with his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
     Bill married the former Carolyn Sue Roper on Sept. 3, 1960, and she survives, along with their four children: Debbie Rittase, Karen (David) Carlson, Sandy (Kevin) Nelson and Greg (Tammy) Collins, all of Hartford; nine grandchildren: Brandi, Kevin, Matthew, Tiffany, Brittany, Kristen, Joshua, Shayne and Cameron; seven great­grandchildren: Samantha, Brookelynn, Allison, Kendra, Aliyah, Myles and Peyton; a brother, Johnny Collins of Coloma; and a sister-in-law, Bonnie Lindley of Hartford.
     The family will welcome friends from 6-8 p.m. Sun­day, July 21, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where the service to honor Billy’s memory will commence at 2 p.m. Monday, July 22, with Pastor Wayne Davis of His Place Cathedral of Faith, Covert, officiating. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations in Billy’s name be made to the American Cancer Society. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family can leave them at www.calvin­leonardfh.com.

 
Alice Elizabeth Bachman, 97, of Hartford passed away Monday, July 8, 2013, at Golden Age Manor, Stevensville.
     Alice was born Jan. 29, 1916, in Boyne City, Mich., the daughter of Morris and Lizzie (Grammel) Snyder, both of whom preceded her in passing. Alice was the last survivor of their nine children. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Donald, on Feb. 23, 2005, and a son, Ronnie, in 1963.
     Alice moved to St. Joseph after she graduated from Boyne City High School. She and Don met at the Shadowland Ballroom and soon afterward married on June 18, 1939. She retired from Van Buren State Bank after many years of loyal employment. She also volunteered at Lakeland Community Hospital, Watervliet, as an auxiliary well into her 80s, working in the gift shop and doing the bookkeeping. In her spare time, she loved watching baseball, especially her children, grandchildren and the great-grandchildren, and also her beloved Detroit Tigers. She was in a bowling league, loved to golf with her late husband and was a member of the Mothers Club of Hartford.
     Alice is survived by three children: Pat (Jim) Empson of Traverse City, Terry Bachman of Kalamazoo and Rick (Ernestine) Bachman of Hartford; eight grandchildren: Kelly Richards, Kimberly (Pete) Root, Kevin Empson, Terri Bachman, Amy (Ray) Gendron, Aaron Elizabeth (Todd) Valdes, Anne (Matt) Smith and Andy (Krissy) Bachman; and 18 great-grandchildren.
     The family will welcome friends 6-8 p.m. Friday, June 12, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where the service to honor her memory will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 13, with Pastor Jeff Williams of Hartford United Methodist Church, of which she was a member, officiating. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations in Alice’s name be made to the Hartford Council for Recreation. Those wishing to leave condolences for the family may do so on our web site at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

 
Charles Edward Bloomer, 85, of Hartford passed away Friday, June 28, 2013, at his home.     
     Charles was born Jan. 14, 1928, in Metropolis, Ill., to Edward Bloomer and Opal (Richardson) Bloomer. On May 13, 1946, he married Elsie Edwards. He was a lifelong area farmer. In his spare time he enjoyed taking photographs, mowing his yard and spending time with his family and dog.     
     He is survived by his wife, Elsie Bloomer of Hartford; four sons: James (Veronica) Bloomer of Florida, JC (Patty) Bloomer, Carl (Linda) Bloomer and Charles "Bob" Bloomer, all of Hartford; six daughters: Patsey Suarez, Drenda (Joe) Yurt and Marie (Bill) Ledford, all of Florida; Norma Bloomer of South Bend, Patricia (Bill) Harkey of Dowagiac and Tina (Steve) DeMaria of Benton Harbor. He loved all 25 of his grandchildren very much.     
     He was preceded in death by his parents and three children, Kenneth Bloomer, Ray Bloomer and Charlotte Sieber.
     The family will welcome friends from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 3, at the Keeler General Baptist Church, where the service to honor his memory will commence at 1 p.m. Pastor Efrain Maya will officiate. Charles will be laid to rest in Keeler Cemetery with private family services. The family asks that memorial donations in Charles’ name be made to Hospice at Home or the Keeler General Baptist Church Memorial Fund. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. To leave memorial condolences in Charles’ name, you may do so on our website at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
Alice I. Flowers, 78, of Decatur passed away suddenly Wednesday, June 26, at Community Hospital in Watervliet.
     Services celebrating her life will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 2, at Keeler General Baptist Church. Visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. Monday, July 1, at Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home in Coloma. Burial will be in Keeler Cemetery. Donations in memory of Alice may be made to Keeler General Baptist Church, of which she was a very active member. Those wishing to leave an online message of comfort for the family may do so at www.duffield­pastrick.com.
     Alice was born April 12, 1935, in Steele, Mo., to Jarold and Flossie Wilson. She was formerly employed by Heath Co., American Electric Power and then retired after 25 years as a real estate broker. Alice loved to cook and spend time with her family, always putting everyone else first.
     Survivors include her husband, Charles “Bud” Flowers, whom she married Feb. 6, 1954; three sons: Charles and Bruce Flowers of Hartford and Bradley Flowers of Coloma; four sisters: Betty (Bill) Howard of Sister Lakes, Fritz (Glen) Flowers of Benton Harbor, Marjory Blaylock of Sister Lakes and Lucille (Wayne) Kerby of South Bend; two brothers: J.W. (Sandy) Wilson of Perrinton, Mich., and Larry (Debbie) Wilson of Bitely, Mich.; seven grandchildren: Ryan (Tinta) Flowers and Chad Flowers of Chicago, Sara Flowers and Bradley (Angie) Flowers Jr. of Coloma, Melissa (Jason) Case of St. Joseph, Ashley Flowers of Bangor and Jacob Flowers of Hartford; seven great-grandchildren: Devon, Madison, Baylee, Jackson, Logan, Daisy and Noah; and numerous nieces, neph­ews, relatives and friends.
     She was preceded in death by her father, Jarold, in 1993 and her mother, Flossie, in 2011.
 
Michael David Burfield, 42, of Hartford passed away on Friday, June 21, 2013, at Borgess Medical Center, Kalamazoo.
     The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, June 24, 2013, at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford, where a rosary will be celebrated at 7:30 p.m. Mass of Christian burial to honor Michael’s life will be Tuesday, June 25, 2013, at 11 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Hartford. Father Fabio Garzon and Deacon Arthur Morsaw will officiate. Michael will be laid to rest in Rush Lake Indian Cemetery in Hartford Township. In lieu of flowers, please make any memorial donations to his wife and son, “Tip.” Messages of condolences for Michael’s family may be left on the website at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
     Michael was born in Watervliet December 19, 1970, to Bill and Wanda (Drane) Morse. He loved spending time with his family, especially his wife, Laura, and his son, Clarence “Tip” Burfield. He also leaves behind to cherish his memory: his parents, Bill and Wanda; a sister, Tammy (Ken) McGlothlin; a brother, Scott (Linda) Burfield all of Hartford; his mother-and father-in-law, Catherine and Deacon Arthur Morsaw; numerous sisters-in-law; brothers-in­law; aunts; uncles; nieces; nephews; a great niece; and friends.
     He was preceded in death by his grandmother and grandfather, Clarence and Vera Drane, and a nephew, P.J. Christner.
     Michael enjoyed the family trips to Florida, where he relaxed on the beaches and went snorkel­ing in the ocean.
PAW PAW — Adelbert Letts Stagg was born on April 24, 1920, to Alfred and Mary (Ritchey) Stagg. He died Wednesday, June 12, at home. He was raised in Nashville, Tenn., the youngest child in a large, close-knit family. Both parents and most of the children were musicians. The household often included boarders to help offset the expenses of such a large family. Three brothers became physicians, the two sisters dieticians, and as adults, scattered through­out the country, they vacationed together well into their 80s.
     Dr. Stagg attended Southern Missionary and Emmanuel colleges. He received his medical training from the College of Medical Evangelists at Loma Linda, Calif., serving his internship at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. He served his country with distinction during World War II as a statistician and industrial medical specialist in the United States Army. After the war Dr. Stagg completed his post-graduate work in general surgery and cardiology at Cook County Hospital in Chicago and hung his shingle in the rural community of Hartford in 1948. Dr. Stagg spent 60 years serving the medical needs of four generations of residents of Hartford, treating them skillfully and with compassion, integrity and respect. He was the embodiment of the “country doctor,” treating his patients first and foremost as individuals, not as the ailments they presented to him. Patients and colleagues alike fondly recall his acts of charity and kindness.
     Dr. Stagg served as the Deputy Medical Examiner for Van Buren County, twice served as president of the Van Buren County Medical Society and as Chief of Staff of Community Hospital. Dr. Stagg won the love of his patients and the respect of his peers, as evidenced by the numerous community honors bestowed upon him. In 2000 he received the Pfizer Quality Care Award for physicians exhibiting integrity, professionalism and serving as a role model for community leadership. He was selected by the Michigan State Medical Society Board of Directors to receive the prestigious Frederick and Besse Moulton Plessner Memorial award honoring a family physician exemplifying the ideals of service to his fellow citizens. He was proclaimed “Citizen of the Year” by the city of Hartford in 1994 for his unselfish contributions to the community, and the A.L. Stagg Birthing Center was named in his honor when Community Hospital returned to providing obstetric services. Upon his retirement in 2007 at the age of 87 the Stagg Medical Center was named in his honor.
     When he infrequently hung up his stethoscope, Dr. Del vacationed with Lorna, traveled every summer to the Canadian wilderness on a fishing trip with his buddies, gardened, cared for a series of “well disciplined” dogs, played golf and tennis and extended a fiercely competitive nature even to card games.
     He was a devoted member of the Seventh-day Adventist church. Along with other members he built a new sanctuary for the Hartford church in 1969 and later moved his membership to Paw Paw when he and Lorna moved to Heritage Glenn golf course.
     He is survived by his wife, Lorna; a sister, Anna (MD); six children: Del Jr. of California, Andy of Washington, Bob of California, Andy of Washington, Kirk of Washington, Sally of Washington and Jennifer of Michigan; two stepchildren, Jason of California and Leslie of Tennessee; 14 grandchildren, and 31⁄2 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by six siblings.
     In celebration of his life, a visitation will be from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Sunday, June 16, at Hartford Seventh-day Adventist Church on Old Pinery Road. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, June 17, at the same location.
     In lieu of flowers, donations will be gratefully accepted to the A.L. Stagg M.D. Medical Educational Fund, c/o Hartford Foundation for Quality Education, established in Dr. Del’s honor. Memorial condolences for the family may be sent online to www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
Roger Thomas Applegate, 67, of Hartford passed away Monday, June 10, 2013, at his daughter’s home in Hartford.
     “Gizzy,”as he was known, was born Dec. 24, 1945, in Lucasville, Ohio, the son of Steve and Nettie (Smith) Applegate, both of whom preceded him in passing.
     A graveside service to honor Roger’s life took place at 10 a.m. Friday, June 14, 2013, at Maple Hill Cemetery in Hartford, with Pastor Shannon Truelove of the Full Gospel Assembly of Hartford officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Roger’s name may be made to the family. The Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford is handling the arrangements. Those wishing to leave a condolence for the family may do so at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
     Roger formerly operated the Crystal Flash in Hartford. He was also employed at the Watervliet Paper Mill, Superior Steel in Benton Harbor and drove semi trucks for a number of different companies.
     Roger mostly loved the time he spent with his family, which consists of a son, James Applegate of Hartford; a daughter, Lisa (Marvin Smith) Riley of Hartford; and two granddaughters, Lyndsey Pruitt of Covert and Macie Pruitt of Hartford. Also surviving are a brother, Ed (Kathy) Smith of Palaski, Tenn.; half-sisters and half-brother: Susie, Brenda, Nettie Mae, Betty and Roy; and a special friend, Carol.
Helen Louise Mason, formerly of Portage, went to be with the Lord on June 9, 2013, at the age of 92.
     Helen was born April 14, 1921, to Joseph and Anna (Gressel) Kizinski in Hartford, Michigan. She graduated from Paw Paw High School in 1939, and continued her education at Maher’s Business College, graduating in 1941. Helen married and devoted her life to R. Vern Mason and was the proud mother of 3 sons; Bill (Ruth Dwoinen) of Plainwell MI, Randy (Brenda) of Kalamazoo, and Rick (Nancy) of St. Clair Shores. Her life was her family and she was a loving and caring mother. Helen was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and 3 brothers. She is survived by her sons, 6 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren.
     Helen’s life will be celebrated and blessed on Friday, June 14, 2013 at St Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, 1150 W. Centre Ave., Portage, MI at 11:00AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pet Resources Network, PO Box 3034, Kalamazoo, MI 49003 or the Charity of your choice. Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 S. 9th St.

 
Alex Eddie Murphy, 60, passed away suddenly at his home in Keeler on Friday morning, May 31, 2013.
     A memorial celebration to honor Alex’s life, will be t 1 p.m. Thursday, June 6, at the family home. Please come with your best story about your experiences with Alex.
     Alex was born in Joiner, Ark., Feb. 21, 1953, to Alex and Mildred George-Murphy, who preceded him in passing. He was employed at numerous area farms as their handyman and did just about everything. His hobbies were working on lawn mowers with his grandson, fishing and spending precious moments with his family.
     Survivors include his wife, Tonya Fuller-Murphy; his seven children: Gale (Kevin) Schneider of Bangor, Alex Eddie Murphy Jr. of Grand Junction, Mary (Tony Westerhoff) Murphy of Bloomingdale, Randy (Angela Grahm) Murphy and Bobby Murphy, both of Grand Junction, Brandy (Jack Peterson) Murphy and Jody (Nathan McCann), both of Hartford. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren: Niki, Cody, Amber, Kali, Toby, Ashley, Brody, Joey, Derek, Tony, Haley and Jacob.
     Memorials may be made to the family. The Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford was entrusted with handling the arrangements. Messages of condolences for Alex’s family may be left at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

 

Tammy L. Capovilla-Diehl, 48, of Hartford passed away Friday, May 31, 2013, at her residence.
     A service celebrating her life will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home in Coloma, where visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery. Donations in her memory may be made to the family. Those wishing to leave an online message of comfort for the family may do so at www.duffieldpastrick.com.
     Tammy was born Sept. 20, 1964, in Watervliet to Primo and Victoria Lou (Savoie) Capovilla Jr. She loved shopping, scrapbooking, traveling and spending time with her family. She was a host mother for 14 foreign exchange students and worked six years for International Student Exchange in addition to working at the Waffle House in Watervliet. Tammy also enjoyed spending time with her favorite companion, Belle, and two grand dogs, Arie and Callie.
     Survivors include her husband, Joe Diehl; a son, Jerry (Alyssa) Capovilla, and two daughters, Brandy (Gregg) Osburn and Jayme Diehl, all of Hartford; her father, Primo Capovilla Jr. of Watervliet; stepfather, Dale Fredricks Sr. of Coloma; “mother from the heart,” Pauline Pipkins of Hartford; two brothers, Tony Capovilla of Hartford and Dale Fredricks Jr. of Riverside; and numerous brothers- and sisters-in-law and nieces and nephews.
     Tammy was preceded in death by her mother, Victoria Lou Fredricks; father-in­law, George Pipkins; mother-in-law, Linda Nail; and sister-in-law, Judi Kay Nail.
 

John A. Lauck, of Hartford, formerly of Stevensville, passed away Thursday, May 30, 2013, at his home.
     A celebration of life eternal will be held 2 p.m. Monday at Hartford United Methodist Church, 425 E. Main St., Hartford. Friends may visit beginning at 1 p.m. Monday at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hartford United Methodist Church, Grace Hospice of Portage, or Alzheimer’s Association-Michigan Great Lakes Chapter in Kalamazoo. Those wishing to sign John’s memory book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
     John was born Nov. 12, 1935, in Lakewood, Ohio, to John and Emily (Ridzon) Lauck. He graduated from Shaker Heights High School in 1953, Ohio State University with a bachelor’s degree, and Michigan State University with a master’s degree in business administration. On May 16, 1959, John married the former Florence Crawford in Columbus, Ohio. He served his country in the U.S. Army and the Army Reserves until 1963. John gained employment with Whirlpool Corp.,retiring in 1997 from the Product Safety Department after thirty­seven years of employment. He taught part-time at Lake Michigan College for several years, and after retirement from Whirlpool, opened Sunset Engineering Consulting in Hartford, which he operated for 3 1/2 years. John was a member of the Hartford United Methodist Church, a former member of the Lakeshore Lions Club, and was active with the Lakeshore Jaycees. He served as chairman for the Lake Michigan Water and Sewer Authority and was a member of the Van Buren Planning Commission. In his free time, John enjoyed radio controlled airplanes and was a member of the Whirlwinds RC Airplane Club. He will be remem­bered for his keen sense of humor.
     John is survived by: his wife, Florence; three daughters: Pamela (Bob) Rutherford of St. Joseph; Vikki (Jeff) Guthrie of Charles Town, W.Va.; Laura (Butch) Olmstead of Baroda; six grandchildren – Rob (Jennifer) Rutherford, Drew (Carrie) Rutherford, Cary Worley, William Guthrie, John (Elizabeth) Denton, Racheal (Tim) Floyd; seven great­grandchildren; two brothers – Robert (Heli) Lauck of Temecila, Calif., and James (Ken Reed) Lauck of Otsego, Mich.; two brothers-in-law – James Crawford of Auburndale, Fla., and Roger Ludwig of Reynoldsburg, Ohio; sister-in-law Janice Doddridge of Franklin, Ga.; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and by a sister, Diane Kraisner, in 2001.
 
Jeanette Margaret Watson Coy, 68, of Dowagiac passed away on May 22, 2013 at Metro Health Hospital, Grand Rapids, MI. Jeanette’s life began on July 4, 1944 in Benton Harbor, MI, the daughter of William L. and Elvira (Nimtz) Watson.
     Jeanette was a nurse for 33 years at Lee Memorial Hospital, Dowagiac. She was a member of the Michigan License Practical Nurses Association and enjoyed reading and visiting.
     Her loving survivors include her children, Bill (Lynn) Spooner of Dowagiac, Deb (David) Landman of Ada, MI, Don (Ginger) Coy Jr. of McBain, MI, and Gayle (Robert) Wilson of Niles; grandchildren, Dale Coy, Katrina Christie, Ginelle Coy, Nicholas Coy, Jessica Simpson, Jennifer Natter, Kevin Simpson, Tony Spooner, Regan Landman, and Jordin Spooner; great-grandchildren, Dominick Mentel, Keagan Mentel, Kevin Simpson Jr., Edward Christie and Logan Christie; special grandson Lee Simpson Jr. and special son-in-law, Kenneth (Cindy) Simpson; four sisters, Dorothy Hancock of Jacksonville, FL, Kathy (Ron) Harris of Reno, NV, Bonnie (David) Pochke of Benton, MI, and Sharon (Pete) Matute of LasVegas, NV; and one brother, Glen (Jan) Garett of Birchrun, MI.
     She was preceded by her parents, her husband and her son, Jeffrey Spooner. Her family will gather with friends on Saturday, May 25, 2013, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Yazel-Clark Chapel where her funeral service will begin at 1:00 pm. She will be laid to rest at Riverside Cemetery, Dowagiac, MI. Please sign her guest book and leave a memory of Jeanette at www.yazel-clark.com.

NOTE:  Jeanette was a 1962 Hartford High School graduate.
Otto “George” Falkner of Hartford passed away after a lengthy illness on May 28 at Lakeland Specialty Hospital in Berrien Center. He was born Nov. 13, 1932, in Keeler. He was the youngest of four children born to August John and Jenny Falkner.
     George graduated in 1950 from Hartford High School, where he played basketball. He proudly served his country during the Korean War in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged as a corporal. On Aug. 18, 1956, he married his high school sweetheart, Patti Haar. They had two children: William, who died at birth, and Cindi. George was a farmer who strived for perfection in the quality of his crops. Farming was his second passion after his family, whom he loved and cherished. He adored his two grandchildren. George will be remembered for his great integrity and his wonderful sense of humor.
     George is survived by his wife, Patti; his daughter, Cindi, and son-in-law, Ron McLaughlin, of Benton Harbor; his grandchildren: Shawn McLaughlin of Watervliet and Shannon McLaughlin of Grand Rapids; his siblings: Robert Falkner, Ann Bohle and John Falkner; his favorite nephew, Johnny Falkner; and many other nephews and nieces.
     According to his wishes, George was cremated, and there will be no service.
 
Jim C. Borden, 62,  of Bangor died Friday, May 24, 2013, at his home after his battle with brain cancer.
     Jim was born Aug. 28, 1950, in Columbus, Ga., the son of Curtis and Anna (Davis) Borden, and had lived the majority of his life in the Bangor area. He was owner and operator of Borden Processing and Hartford Motor Speedway. He loved farming and racing.
     Surviving are his wife, Patty (McCloud), whom he married Nov. 10, 1979; a daughter, Becky (JR) Hotovy of Hartford; a son, James Borden II of Harford; eight grandchildren: Sierra, Anna, Brooky, Trinity, Ayla, Chris, Masyn and Garett; a sister, Wanda Freeman; a brother, Roy Borden; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Amy Borden; a son, James E. Borden; and a sister, Glenda Reynolds.
     According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be a celebration of his life from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 1, 2013, at Borden Processing facility; 67125 40th Ave., Bangor. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Bangor Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home (www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com).
     The family suggests memorials be made to Hospice Care of Southwest Michi­gan, 801 Hazen St., Suite A, Paw Paw, MI 49079, or online at www.hospiceswmi.org.
 
Robert Lee Sturgeon Sr., 68, of Keeler passed away suddenly Sunday, May 19, 2013, at the home of Marcia (Robert) Dunn, where he was cared for by his family until his passing.
     Robert was born July 1, 1944, in Hartford, the son of Bert Sr. and Geraldine (Day) Sturgeon, both of whom preceded him in passing. Also preceding him in passing were his wife, Charlie; a brother, Bert Sturgeon Jr.; two sisters, Barbara Lewis and Maria Lewis; and a step­father, Mitchell Lewis.
     Robert is survived by a son, Robert Sturgeon Jr. of Benton Harbor; a grandson, Deven Scott Sanders of Coloma; 10 siblings: Sylvia (Gary) Hall of St. Joseph; Phillip Sturgeon of Indianapolis; Louella Lewis of Dowagiac; Ronald (Theresa) Sturgeon of Benton Harbor; Marjorie Young and Thomas Sturgeon, both of Dowagiac; Adeline (Terry) Dixon of Hartford; Otis Lewis of Indianapolis; and Peggy McNew and Marcia (Robert) Dunn, both of Keeler; a stepson, Robert Thompson; and one step-granddaughter and one step great-grandson, both of Watervliet.
     The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 22, at the Calvin Funeral Home. The service to honor Robert’s memory will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 23, at the funeral home. Robert will be laid to rest, with military rites, in Rush Lake Indian Cemetery, Hartford Township. Those wishing to leave condolences for the family may do so online at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

 
Lyndon Orlo Arnt, 86, passed away at his home in Keeler on Friday morning, May 17, 2013, with his wife of 67 years, Norine Lucille (Bisnett) Arnt, and family members at his side.
     Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 21, with visitation from 5-8 p.m. Monday, May 20. Both will be at Keeler General Baptist Church, with Pastor Heather McDougal officiating the funeral service. Burial will follow at Keeler Cemetery.
     Lindy, as he was known by most, was born Aug. 12, 1926, in Bainbridge Township. A farmer for nearly 50 years, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, bowling and spending time with his family.
     Lindy was a former member of the Elks, Odd Fellows and Lions Club, as well as a headmaster of the Bainbridge Grange.
     Surviving are his wife, Norine; three children – Sandra (J.W.) Wilson of Perrinton, Mich., Joe (Sally) Arnt of Watervliet and T.J. (Brenda Hurtubise) Arnt of Bark River, Mich.; eight grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Norma Jean Shiero of Parrish, Fla.
     He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Katherine Arnt; a brother, Allen Arnt; and a grandson, Lyndon Joseph Arnt.
     Memorials may be made to Hospice at Home or the Keeler United Methodist Church. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling arrangements. Messages of condolences for Lindy’s family may be left on the website at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

 
Virginia Jeanette Millhouse, 89, life­time resident of Keeler, passed away on May 12, 2013 at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph.
     She was born on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 1923, the daughter of Eugene and Sarah Pomeroy. She was united in marriage to Robert Millhouse and is survived by her sons: John (Nancy) Millhouse of Decatur and Robert (Ruth Ann) Millhouse of Keeler; granddaughter, Elisabeth (Andy) Dierickx and her two great-granddaughters: MaKenna and MiKayla Dierickx of Decatur. She is survived by her special cousin, Beverly Harper, and nieces and nephews: Mary, Betty, Ross, Vernon and David.
     She was preceded by her husband, her parents and sisters: Leota Wilkinson and Frances Skoda and baby brother, Johnny.
     Virginia liked nothing more than to be at home, taking care of her house and being with family. She became “G G” to her great-granddaughters and loved being with them.
     As per her wishes, pri­vate graveside services will be held for her family. The Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford has been entrust­ed with the arrangements. Those wishing to leave condolences for the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

 
Charlene Fain, 74, of Hartford passed away Friday, May 10, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph.
     Services celebrating her life will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 14, at Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home in Coloma, where visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday. Burial will be in North Shore Memory Gardens.Donations in memory of Charlene may be made to Word of Life Fellowship in Watervliet. Those wishing to leave an online message of comfort for the family may do so at www.duffieldpastrick.com.
     Charlene was born Sept. 17, 1938, in Risco, Mo., to Cleatus and Delta (Buckley) Jones. She graduated from Benton Harbor High School in 1956. Charlene was a licensed beautician and also worked many years with her husband, Carl, in his jewelry stores and at Off the Edge retail store in the Orchards Mall. She also was a member of Coloma American Legion Post 362 Auxiliary. Charlene was a wonderful cook, as well as a dedicated wife and mother. She will truly be missed by all who knew her.
     She is survived by her husband, Carl; two daughters, Maggie Fain and Denise Collins, both of Hartford; two sons, Kurt (Marshel) Fain of Berea, Ky., and Mike Taylor of Gaffney, S.C.; and four grandchildren – U.S. Army Sgt. Gabriel Cleatus Matthew Fain, and Shelby, Glassie and Lidia Fain.
     Charlene was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, William “Sonny” Jones; and two sisters, Deloris Mings and Norma McCrea.

 
The life of Michael Goodrich Jr., 16, began Oct. 24, 1996, in St. Joseph.
     He lived in Southwest Michigan all his life, having attended school in South Haven, Hartford, Watervliet and Coloma. He was a member of Coloma High School’s regular choir and chamber choir, which competed at state this year. Along with Michael’s beautiful singing voice, he had a great sense of humor and enjoyed re-enacting voices. Michael also enjoyed being outdoors and fishing.
     He loved his family, which includes his mom, Judith Lynn Selter Gess; his dad, Michael Dwain (Darcy) Goodrich Sr.; siblings, Cary Michael (Amanda) Gess, Martin Allen Selter Garrett, Kenny Allen, David Skoda, Sean Glaze and Nikki Steffey; step-siblings, Trisha Travers, David Travers, and Joe Travers Jr; two nephews, Ixac Gess and Jack Ryan Travers; his grandpa, Frank Selters; two grandmas, Betty Willis and Homara Wells; a great­grandfather, Charles Martin; aunts and uncles, Johnny Forrest, Bruce Jones, Ruth Ann Jones, Dawn and Michael Hoffman, Sarah Willis, Judy Terlisner, Charles Selter, Joey Feid Sr, and Bill and Theresa Hatfield; his best friends, Jacob Feid and Quincy Querfurth; and many cousins.
     Michael died Sunday, May 5. Funeral services will be celebrated at 6 p.m. Friday, May 10, at Full Gospel Assembly Church in Hartford, with visitation prior to the funeral from 4-6 p.m.
Alfred Dill, 83, of Coloma passed away Monday, April 29, 2013, at Lakeland Community Hospital in Watervliet.
     A celebration of life service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, May 3, 2013, at Napier Parkview Baptist Church, 245 W. Napier Ave., Benton Harbor, with Dr. J.O. Hosler officiating. Burial will follow at Riverview Cemetery in St. Joseph. Friends may visit from 5-7 p.m. Thursday at Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Service, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph. Memorials may be made to the family.
     Alfred was born Jan. 31, 1930, in Benton Harbor to Riney and Olga (Stubelt) Dill. He served his country in the United States Army. On Aug. 29, 1953, he married Wencil Page in Benton Harbor. Alfred worked for Clark Equipment as a welder for more than 20 years. He was a member of Napier Parkview Baptist Church, which he helped build, and was a deacon for more than 12 years. He enjoyed farming at one time on his farm in Hartford. He also enjoyed listing to Christian music and watching boxing and rodeos.
     Alfred is survived by his daughter, Diane (Ray) Bush of Coloma; two grandchildren, Christopher (Nicole) Kelly and Shayha Johnson; 10 great-grandchildren; brothers, Edward (Donna) Dill of Paw Paw and Robert Dill of Watervliet; and sister, Bonnie (Jim) Joiner of Benton Harbor.
     Alfred was preceded in death by his parents; wife; son, Allen Dill; and brother, Richard Dill.
Betty J. (Maddox) Welty, 73, of Hartford went to be with the Lord on Saturday, April 20, 2013, at her home, surrounded by her family.
     Betty was born July 31, 1939, to Orville and Stella (Blevens) Maddox in Lepanto, Ark.
     Betty grew up in the Berrien and Van Buren County area and graduated from Lawrence High School in 1957. Betty met Curtis Gene Welty, and after four years of courting, they married on May 17, 1958. He survives along with their children, Curtis Wayne (Audrey) Welty, Kevin Gene Welty and Candace Leigh Welty; nine grandchildren; three great­grandchildren; her twin brother, Billy Maddox; and two sisters, Doris (Harold) Bowen and Sharon Strand.
     Betty was preceded in passing by her parents; two sisters, Lois and Dorothy; and a brother, Robert.
     At the age of 12, Betty dedicated her life to God. She had a beautiful voice and at a very young age she began singing at church. As an adult, Betty was a Sunday school teacher and the worship leader. She would often be asked to sing at weddings and funerals, which she would do without hesitation.
     The family will receive friends 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 23, 2013, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where the celebration of life service will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 24, 2013. Dr. Brenda Chand will officiate. Betty will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to either the family or Hospice of Southwest Michigan. Those wishing to leave condolences may do so by visiting our web site at Calvin Funeral Home, calvin_funeral@frontier.com, http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com, 621-4101.

Warren Elliot Sweet of Benton Harbor, formerly of Hartford, died at the age of 79 on April 15, 2013, at Orchard Grove Extended Care Center in Benton Harbor.
     Celebration of life services will be at 11:30 a.m. Friday at Starks & Menchinger Chapel & Cremation Services, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph, with military rites conducted by the North Berrien Military Rites Team. Cremation will follow the service. Friends may visit from 5-8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the Humane Society of Southwest Michigan. Those wishing to sign Warren’s Memory Book online may do so at www.starks­menchinger.com.
     Warren was born June 17, 1933, in Hartford to David C. and Dolores I. (Brooks) Sweet Sr. He played baseball and basketball at Hartford High School, where he graduated in 1953. Warren joined the U.S. Army and served two years, stationed in Korea. On Feb. 18, 1956, he married the former Barbara Marceau, recently celebrating 57 years of marriage. Warren was employed at Benton Harbor Engineering until they closed, at which time he gained employment at Mac Engineering, from where he retired. He loved sports, especially basketball, baseball, football and bowling. His favorite athletes were Larry Bird of the Boston Celtics and baseball player Ted Williams, after whom he named one of his sons. Warren was a huge Notre Dame football fan and raised all of his children to be the same.
     Warren is survived by his wife, Barbara; his brother, David Sweet Jr. of Hartford; five sons, Chris, John, Keith, Todd and Ted Sweet, all of Benton Harbor; his daughter, Candy Sweet of Benton Harbor; a stepson, Rick Davis of Benton Harbor; seven grandchildren, Ashley (Zack) Lesher, Kyle Sweet, Elliot Danneffel, Morgan Sweet, Thaiden Sweet, Jackson Sweet and a step-grandson, Aaron Davis; two great­grandchildren, Allie and Ryan Lesher; and several nieces and nephews.
     He was preceded in death by his parents.
 
Charles “Chuck” C. Kibler, 68, of Lawrence passed away at 12:19 p.m. Sunday, April 14, 2013, in Heartland Hos­pice, Kalamazoo. He was born on Oct. 28, 1944, in Coloma to the late Charles E. and Marguerite (Duncan) Kibler. On Nov. 1, 1992, he married the former Pamela Kay Shafer in Stevensville.
     Mr. Kibler is survived by his wife, Pamela K. Kibler of Lawrence; daughter, Heidi (Joel) Stray of Hudsonville; son, Charles David (Tammy) Kibler of Holland; stepdaughter, Cody Brewer of Lawrence; four grandchildren, Rachel and Kaylee Stray and Logan and Laine Kibler; sister, Sandy McClure of Coloma; mother and father-in-law, Paul and Patricia Shafer of Lakeville, Ind.; and step­mother, Doris Kibler of Coloma.
     Mr. Kibler was a self-employed fruit farmer and a former distributor of fruit in Chicago. He assisted with his wife, Pam’s, business, Rick’s Tack in Hartforrd.
     A memorial service will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, April 28, 2013, at Covenant Christian Church, 1870 Union St., Benton Harbor. Pastor Daniel Dahike will officiate. Palmer Funeral Home, Lakeville and Southlawn Cremation Services are assisting the family.
     Contributions in memory of Charles C. Kibler may be offered to Heartland Hospice Services, 8075 Creekside Drive, Suite 120, Portage, MI 49024. Online condolences may be sent to www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.
 
Keeler  –  Robert Mitchell, 58, life began on June 25, 1958 in Niles, the son of Robert and Edna Mae (Klug) Mitchell.
     He was united in marriage to the former Amy Kay on June 26, 1982 in Buchanan. Robert was an electronics technician for over 30 years for various local companies. He served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Robert was a Detroit Tigers fan, loved to go fishing and enjoyed working on his computer. His loving family includes his wife Amy of Keeler, mother Edna Mitchell of Niles, and daughter Briana (Zack Hatch) Mitchell of Keeler. Robert passed away on Monday April 15th in route to Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo.
     He is preceded in death by his father Robert and a brother Richard.
     His family will gather with friends on Saturday April 20th at the Kay’s residence (606 W. Third St. Buchanan) beginning at 7 p.m. Yazel & Clark Chapel is serving the family. Memorial contributions in Robert’s name may be directed to the family in care of Amy. Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of Robert at www.yazel-clark.com.
 
The life of Marilyn E. Mundt, 93, of Watervliet began April 9, 1920, in Hartford Township.
     She grew up in Watervliet, graduating from Watervliet High School. In 1940, Marilyn married Howard Mundt. Marilyn found great joy in helping Howard on the farm and caring for her loving family.
     Her family includes her husband, Howard, of Watervliet; four children, Howard E. (Diane) Mundt of Benton Harbor, Helen (Allen) Loomis of Watervliet, John C. (Florence) Mundt of Benton Harbor and Robert (Donna) Mundt of Watervliet; nine grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; three great-greatgrandchildren; three siblings, Arvid (Henrietta) Frazier, Wilson (Beverly) Frazier and Adell Mundt; and several nieces and nephews.
     Marilyn died Tuesday, April 16, 2013, at Countryside Nursing Home in South Haven. Her parents, Thomas and Helena (Price) Frazier, and siblings, Lillian Crumb, Vitus Frazier, Charles “Bud” Frazier, Bruce Frazier, Evelyn Mundt and Florine Brott, preceded Marilyn in death.
     Funeral services will be celebrated at noon Thursday, April 18, with visitation prior to services from 11 a.m. to noon at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet. Burial will follow in Fairview Memorial Cemetery in Watervliet. Memorials may be made in Marilyn’s memory to Watervliet Free Methodist Church.

 
Evelyn Beatrice Babcock, 94, formerly of Hartford, died peacefully in Spring Lake on April 7, 2013.
     Evelyn was born in Chicago Feb. 16, 1919, the daughter of Olga (Hultgren) and William Born. Evelyn married the late John A. Babcock from Hartford on March 4, 1944, in Chicago. Evelyn lived in Hartford all of her married life. She was a diehard Chicago Cubs fan, being able to recite any baseball statistic and the year. She was very proud that she attended the World Series game in 1945 between the Cubs and the Detroit Tigers. She also loved the game of golf, playing on a league at Indian Lake Golf Course in Sister Lakes. After raising two daughters, Evelyn became employed by Hartford Public Schools as a bus driver for many years.
     Evelyn was a member of the Keeler United Methodist Church in Keeler for 69 years. Evelyn moved to Spring Lake, residing at Oakcrest Manor, assisted living, in 2010 to be closer to her daughter, Nancy. She attended the United Methodist Church of the Dunes in Grand Haven, making many new friends.
     Evelyn is survived by two daughters, Nancy (David) Parsons of Grand Haven and Nina (Michael) Jason of Denver Colo. She is also survived by four grandchildren, Erik and Emily Parsons of Grand Haven, Heather (Darren) Bennett of Carlsbad, Calif., and Kristin (Kevin) Morton of Aloha, Ore.; three stepgrandsons, Robert (Morgan) Jason, Michael (Amie) Jason and Nicolas Jason; and eight great-grandchildren.
     Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, John; her parents; sister, Virginia; and great-granddaughter, Lillian. Evelyn has donated her body to science at the University of Michigan. A memorial service will be conducted in honor of Evelyn’s wonderful life at 11 a.m. May 4, 2013, at Keeler United Methodist Church, Keeler. Memorials may be made to the Keeler United Methodist Church or to Hospice of Michigan in her memory.
     Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, is serving the family.

 
Kenneth A. Heuser passed away Sunday afternoon, March 31, 2013.
     Ken was born September 3, 1930 in Hartford, MI the son of Eugene and Marjorie (Rush) Heuser and had been a lifelong resident in the Kalamazoo area. He was a veteran serving in the U.S. Army 4th Tank Division. Ken was a graduate of Michigan State University; and enjoyed gardening, hunting, and walking his dogs. Prior to his retirement, he worked for 18 years with Jim Gilmore Pontiac as a master salesman.
     On March 27, 1954 he was united in marriage to his loving wife of 59 years, the former Keda Springsteen, who survives. Also surviving are his sons, Greg (Shelly) Heuser, Mark (Colleen) Heuser, Brad (Tanya) Heuser; grandchildren, Jason Heuser, Jon (Briana) Heuser, Molly and Amanda Heuser; a brother, Wallace Heuser; half brother, Earl Heuser; and several nieces and nephews.
     Ken was preceded in death by his parents; step mother, Pauline; grandson, Logan; and half brother, David. Services will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday, April 6, at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel, 411 East Centre. Friends may meet the family one hour prior to the service. Private interment will be in Ft. Custer National Cemetery at a later date. Memorials may be directed to the Michael J. Fox Parkinson’s Foundation. Please visit Ken’s personalized guestbook at www.langelands.com

NOTE:  Ken was a 1949 Hartford High School graduate.
 

George A. Saetre, 89, of Hartford passed away Wednesday, March 27, 2013, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph.
     George was born Jan. 25, 1924, in Chicago, the son of Andrew and Dagny (Isachsen) Saetre, both of whom preceded him in passing. George was also preceded in passing by his wife of 63 years, Martha (VanLiere), on Nov. 1, 2009, and a sister, Marie Schwenn.
     George is survived by his loving family, which consists of his son, Andrew, and his, wife, Karen, of Benton Harbor; one granddaughter, Allison Saetre of Rockford, Mich., and twin great-grandsons, Jake and Corbin. Also surviving are two sisters-in-law, Nellie Pozivilko and Josephine Perry, both of Hartford, and several nieces and nephews.
     George was a faithful employee for more than 33 years at Petrolane LP Gas in Hartford. He served his country proudly in the Army Air Force during World War II, was a past president of the Hartford Lions Club and past zone chairman of the Lions Club District B2. George was also a member of Hope Lutheran Church in Hartford. He will be remembered by all who knew him for his friendly and out­going nature.
     The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, April 1, at Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford. A celebration of life service to honor George’s memory will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 2, at Hope Lutheran Church in Hartford, with Pastor Frederick Adrian officiating. George will be entombed at Mount EverRest Memorial Park in Kalamazoo. In lieu of flowers, memorials in George’s name may be made to Hope Lutheran Church. Those wishing to leave condolences may do so online at calvin-leonardfh.com.
Raymond “Ray” M. Sreboth, 90, of St. Joseph, passed away Tuesday morning, March 26, 2013, at Caretel Inns of Lakeland in St. Joseph.
     Mass of Christian Burial celebrating his life will held at 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, April 3, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 211 Church Street, with Fr. Alphonse Savarimuthu officiating. Burial will be held Wednesday at 1:30 P.M. at Resurrection Cemetery in St. Joseph with Military Rites. Visitation will be held from 5:00 until 8:00, Tuesday evening, at the Dey-Florin Funeral Home, 2506 Niles Ave., in St. Joseph. The Rosary will be recited at 7:30. In lieu or flowers, memorials may be made to either St. Joseph Catholic Church or to Hospice at Home. Messages of condolence may be made to www.florin.net.
     Ray was born October 8, 1922, in Chicago, Illinois. He was one of two children born to Mathew and Mary Sreboth. He graduated from Hartford High School. Ray proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during WWII. He married Eva and together had five children. He got his Bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University, his Master’s degree from the University of Michigan, and his Doctorate degree from Western. Ray devoted his professional life to public education. He served as Principal and Superintendant of Covert High School, as Superintendant of the Benton Harbor Public School System from 1962 until 1973, and later as Superintendant of Berrien County Intermediate District from 1973 until 1986. He was a member of Lest We Forget and the Wood Workers Guild. Additionally, he enjoyed researching Circus history in America and was a loyal fan to his alma-mater, Western Michigan University. He attended regular meetings with the Loyal Order of Raccoons at Big Boy in Stevensville. Most of all, Ray was devoted to spending time with his family.
     Ray is survived by his children, Marie (Tim) Wood of Frisco, Colorado, Nancy (Larry) Mohney of Kalamazoo, Ray, Jr. (Kathy) Sreboth of Coloma, Susan (Hans) Schroeder of St. Joseph, and Laura (J.C.) Dorfler of Oakley, California; grandchildren, Zack (Suzie) Mohney, Jake (Jenny) Mohney, Katie (Jason) Doehrman, Meghan (John) Boyer, Matthew Sreboth, and Ryan and Drew Dorfler; nine great-grandchildren; nephews, Michael (Jackie) Flick, Michael (Teddy) and Scott (Mary Anne) Sherry; niece-in-law, Holly Sherry; brother-in-law, Bob Dwyer; and by his sweetheart, Lois Saurbier.
     In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by his wife Eva in 1985; his sister, Frances Flick; and by his nephew, Pat Sherry.

NOTE:  Ray was a class of 1941 Hartford High School graduate.
 

Shirlene Manning, 75, of Hartford, went to her heavenly home Sunday, March 24, 2013, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, Saint Joseph.
     Shirlene was born Dec. 3, 1937, in New Madrid, Mo., the daughter of Milton and Lillian (Robbins) Hill, both of whom preceded her in passing. Also preceding her in passing was a granddaughter, Kendra Michael.
     Her most important love was the time she spent with her family, which includes her husband, Kenneth, whom she married Aug. 30, 1954; a daughter, Rebecca (Jack) Traughber of Hartford; two sons, Mike (Terri) Manning of Sawyer and Mark (Cheryl) Manning of Fancy Gap, Va.; six grandchildren, Jeff, Tabitha, Joshua, Melissa, Benjamin and Julie; 11 great-grandchildren; and a brother, Sam (Barbara) Hill of Cuba, Mo.
     Shirlene was deeply devoted to the Lord. She became a Christian at a young age. She was the cofounder, along with her husband, Kenneth, of the Hartford Church of God 38 years ago. She was a devoted and loyal member of that ministry and loved singing. She was a devoted and loving mother to her family and was like a mother to many people throughout her life.
     The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, March 27, at the Hartford Church of God, where the service to honor her memory will commence at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 28. Pastors Kenneth and Mark Manning will officiate. Shirlene will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford, where Pastor Eric Jackson will deliver remarks. Memorial donations in Shirlene’s name may be made to the church’s building fund or Gidean’s International. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family are encouraged to do so by visiting our web site at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

 
Donna Mae Morsaw,78, of Hartford passed away Wednesday, March 20, 2013, at Grace of Douglas in Douglas.
     Donna was born Oct. 8, 1934, in Dowagiac, the daughter of Albert and Francis (Richards) Schultz, both of whom preceded her in passing. Also preceding her in passing were her husband, Cardinal Joseph Morsaw, on Aug. 11, 2004; a daughter, Pamela McGlothlin; and a great-grandson, Ethan Paul Nelson.
     Donna is survived by her children, Alan (Cindy) Morsaw, Barbara Burfield and Joseph (Charlotte) Morsaw, all of Hartford, and Gregory (Anna) Morsaw of Bangor. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Kim, Donna, Josie, Jodi, Nora, Norman, Tiffany, Stephanie, Joe, Adam, Brittany and Nick; her great-grandchildren, Derek, Samantha, Josh, Erica, Jakob, Alex, Zoey, Chloe, Aiden, Blake, Noah, Chandler and Jayden; and two brothers, Bob (Shirley) Schultz of Florida and Ken Schultz of Dowagiac.
     Donna was formerly employed at Adam Electronics in Bangor and DuWell’s and Shafer Lake Fruit, both in Hartford.
     The family will welcome friends from 4-6 p.m. Sunday, March 24, 2013, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where a prayer service will be held at 5:30 p.m. The service to honor her memory will commence at 11 a.m. Monday, March 25, 2013, at the funeral home, with Deacon Arthur Morsaw officiating. Donna will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford, followed by a luncheon at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Hartford. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations should be made to Greg Morsaw. Anyone wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so by visiting our website at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

 
Duane Abraham Cook, 85, of Hartford went peacefully to be with his Lord on Wednesday, March 13, 2013, at home, surrounded by his family.
     Duane was born Dec. 26, 1927, in Bangor, the son of L. Reed and Mary (Boyer) Cook, both of whom preceded him in passing. Also preceding him in passing were a sister, Evelyn Dorkoski, and a brother, Roger Cook.
     Duane was a graduate of Bangor High School, where he was strongly active in athletic activities. He started working at Standard Electronics, which later became Adams Electronics before it closed. He also started, along with three others, Bangor Electronics. He and his wife, Lois, were the owners and operators of Cook’s Nursery. He was a devoted member of the Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hartford and served as the leader of the Lutheran Boy Pioneers Youth Groups in Hartford and Bangor. He was a member of the Board of Directors at Camp Lor-Ray in Twin Lakes for 40 years. In his spare time he coached Little League and enjoyed camping, fishing, golf, hunt­ing and watching his children and grandchildren play sports. He also enjoyed spending winters for 25 years in Big Pine Key, Fla.
     Duane married the former Lois Berndt on Oct. 20, 1956. She survives, along with a son, Frederick (Lisa) Cook of Hartford; a daughter, Rhonda (Charles) Wiersma of Scotts; grandchildren, Christopher, Shelby and Corey Cook and Alex and Sidney Wiersma; four nieces; and one nephew.
     The family will welcome friends from 3:30-6 p.m. Sunday, March 17, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, and from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Monday, March 18, at the Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church, Hartford, where the service to honor his memory will commence at 11:30 a.m. Pastor Frederick S. Adrian will officiate. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Memorial donations in Duane’s name may be made to the church. Those wishing to leave condolences for the family may do so at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

 
Cynthia E. Ikola, 72, of St. Joseph passed away Saturday, Feb. 23, 2013, at her home.
     Cynthia was born Aug. 23, 1940, to Franklin and Dorothy (Heintz) Fulton in Lawrence. She was a graduate of Hartford High School. On Feb. 27, 1971, she married William Ikola in Bridgman. Cynthia was a nail technician for 20 plus years, owning and operating Images Salon in Stevensville from 1986 until 2002. She enjoyed shopping with her sister, reading, kayaking and walks on the beach as well as the numerous family trips with her family to Traverse City.
     Cynthia is survived by her husband, William; sons, Joseph (Jan) Krugler of Coloma and Michael (Tracy) Ikola of Stevensville; grandchildren, Calina, Joseph, Jacob and Sara; great-grandchildren, Karisma, Angelee and Kyler; and sister, Dorothy Stenske of Baroda.
     She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Walter “Bob” Fulton, Harold “Jack” Fulton and Franklin ”Bud” Fulton.
     Memorials may be made to the Humane Society of Southwest Michigan. Those wishing to share a memory of Cynthia may do so online at www.starks-menchinger. com. Arrangements entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 556-9450.


NOTE:  Cynthia was a 1958 Hartford High School graduate.


Barbara Louise Eiswald
, 90, of Holland, formerly of Hartford, passed away Friday, Feb. 22, 2013, at Holland Hospital in Holland.
     Barbara was born May 8, 1922, in Eau Claire, the daughter of Harry and Bessie (Easton) Preston, both of whom precede her in passing. Also preceding her in passing were her husband, Ernest Eiswald; four brothers; Robert, Dale, Marion and Cecil; and a sister, Helen.
     Barbara proudly served her country in the U.S. Navy for two years during World War II.
     Barbara is survived by a daughter, Ruth Ann Eiswald of Holland; a son, Michael (Sharon) Eiswald of Holland; grandchildren, Paul, Cole, Michael, Todd, Katie, Seth, Cassidy and Cayla; and a great-grandson, Hunter.
     The family will welcome friends from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 28, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service to honor her memory, with military rites to be performed by the North Berrien Military Rites team, will commence at 11 a.m. Friday, March 1, at the Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church, Hartford, with Pastor Frederick S. Adrian serving as officiant. Following services, cremation will take place. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial donations be made to the church. Anyone wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so on our web site at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
 
Danny Ray Vaughn, 44, of Hartford passed away suddenly Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2013, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph.
     Danny was born May 24, 1968, in Benton Harbor, the son of Nathaniel Routesaw and Jo Ann Gingrich. Danny was a drywall finisher by trade, working in construction. In his spare time, Danny loved playing poker, especially Texas Hold ’Em, golf, travel and watching all kinds of sports.
     Danny was preceded in passing by his father; a grandfather, John Smith; two aunts, Brenda Smith and LouAnne Holcomb; and two nieces, Storie Smith and Ashley Buckley.
     Danny is survived by his mother, JoAnn, of Hartford; a sister, Lucinda Morrison of Coloma; a grandmother, Betty Smith of Coloma; six aunts; one uncle; and two nephews.
     Danny has been cremated. A memorial service to honor his memory will take place at 1p.m. Saturday, March 16, at the Hartford United Methodist Church with Pastor Jeff Williams as officiant. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Danny’s name may be made to the family. The Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, has been entrusted with handling the arrangements. Those wishing to leave condolences to the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
 
LouAnne Holcomb, 56, of Hartford passed away Saturday, Feb. 16, 2013, as the result of an automobile accident.
     LouAnne was born June 29, 1956, in Watervliet, the daughter of John and Betty (Vaughn) Smith. LouAnne was a loving wife to Vernon, whom she married on Oct. 4, 1986. She was a caring mother to her daughter, Sandra Holcomb of Hartford; son, Richard (Karolyn) Holcomb of Rock City, Ill., and daughter, Glenda (Robert) Damaske of Quinton, Va. LouAnne also cherished the time she spent with her grandchildren, Jared (Sara) Damaske, Justin Damaske, Tifany Holcomb, Alexis Holcomb, Brandon Holcomb, Austin McConnell, Taylor McConnell and Tony Braddock Jr.; and one greatgrandchild, Caleb Damaske. LouAnne is also survived by her mother, Betty Smith of Coloma; sisters, JoAnn Vaughn of Hartford, Shirley Buckley, Sandra Wilcoxsin, Debra Smith and Nancy (Carroll) Bailey, all of Coloma, and Lisa (Joe) Sikes of Keeler; and brother, Dana Smith of South Bend, Ind. LouAnne also leaves behind her best friend, Tina (Art) MacGirvin of Watervliet, and numerous nieces, nephews, friends and her church family.
     LouAnne was preceded in passing by her father, John, and a sister, Brenda Smith.
     LouAnne was a certified occupational therapy assistant at Cass County Medical Care Facility. She was a member of the Keeler General Baptist Church and had many hobbies, including Bible study, computer, women’s retreats and shopping.
     The family will receive friends from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 21, at the Keeler General Baptist Church, where a celebration of life service will be held at 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the church. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family are encouraged to do so at our website at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
     She was a rock to her whole family, from her parents down to her great­grandchildren. She never knew a stranger – all were her friends. If you didn’t know about the Lord, she would make sure to tell you. She will never be forgotten. We loved her, Alleluia.

 
Celeste Charlene Phillips, 67, of Hartford passed away suddenly Saturday, Feb. 16, 2013, in Hartford Township as the result of an automobile accident.
     Celeste was born Nov. 6, 1945, in Lawrence, the daughter of George and Esther (Dobson) Heffner, both of whom precede her in passing. Also preceding her in passing was her husband, Jack Eugene Phillips, on Aug. 21, 2010, and a sister, Georgine Heffner.
     Celeste loved farming. Farming was in her blood. When she wasn’t farming, she was on the go traveling, playing golf and other outings. She was deeply devoted to the Lord, as was seen in her enjoyment by her Thursday Night Bible Study she hosted, singing and praising God. She was a loyal member of the Keeler General Baptist Church, where she was the church’s piano player, a song leader and treasurer. She was very charismatic, who was quick to become friends with everyone she came in contact with. She was a very giving person.
     Her most important love was the time she spent with her family, which includes a son, Mike (Shannon) Phillips of Hartford; a daughter, Suzy (David) Buss of Decatur; and four grandchildren, Jonathan Phillips, Joshua Phillips, Cayla Buss and Matthew Buss. Also surviving are a brother, George (Cindi) Heffner of Mattawan; three sisters, Rebecca Heffner of Hartford, Pamela Heffner of Coloma and Diane (Marvin) Thomason of Buckeye, Ariz.; and numerous nieces, nephews, friends and her church family.
     The family will receive friends from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 23, at the Keeler General Baptist Church, with a service to honor her memory starting at 2 p.m. Burial will follow in Keeler Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes memorial donations in Celeste’s name be made to the Keeler General Baptist Church. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family are encouraged to do so at our web site at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

 
Charlotte Ann Sieber, 51, of Hartford passed away on Saturday, Feb. 16, 2013, as the result of an automobile accident.
     Charlotte was born May 31, 1961, in Advance, Mo., the daughter of Charles and Elsie (Edwards) Bloomer, who survive.
     Charlotte was a loving wife to Steven and a precious mother to her step­daughter, Sarah (Todd) Vosburgh of Decatur. She loved spending time with her grandchildren, Bethany, Alivia and Sadie Vosburgh. Charlotte is also survived by her siblings, James (Veronica) Bloomer, Patsy Suarez, Drenda (Joe) Yurt and Marie (Bill) Ledserd, all of Florida, Norma Bloomer of Indiana and J.C. (Patty) Bloomer, Carl (Linda) Bloomer, Patricia (Bill) Harkey, Charles “Bob” Bloomer and Tina (Steve) Demaria, all of Michigan; a dear niece, Heather Bloomer of Dowagiac; and several other nieces, nephews and friends.
     Charlotte was preceded in passing by two brothers.
     Charlotte was employed at Pilkington North America Inc. in Niles. She was a member of the Keeler General Baptist Church and had many hobbies, including sewing, upholstery, quilt making and many other crafts.
     The family will receive friends from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 21, 2013, at the Keeler General Baptist Church gym, where a celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 22, 2013, in the sanctuary. Pastor Efrain Maya will officiate. Charlotte will be laid to rest in Keeler Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Keeler General Baptist Church. Those wishing to leave condolences may do so by visiting our website at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

 
Kathryn Maya, 56, of Kalamazoo went to be with the Lord Saturday, Feb. 16, 2013, in Hartford Township as the result of an automobile accident.
     Kathyn was born Nov. 19, 1956, in Jellico, Tenn., the daughter of Joe and Mary (Bennett) Hamblin, both of whom preceded her in passing.
     Kathy was the wife of Efrain Maya, pastor of the Keeler General Baptist Church. Kathy was a loving mother and grandmother to Jaime Maya of Kalamazoo, Efrain “Bobby” (Brieanne) Maya of Cleveland, Tenn., and his daughter, Mahrijana, and Jesse Maya of Kalamazoo and his son, Mateo. Kathy enjoyed the time spent with her three sisters, Brenda House, Linda (Omer) Rutherford and Barbara-Joann (Larry) Kemp; and two brothers, Wayne (Julie) Hamblin and Johnny Hamblin.
     Kathy enjoyed spending time with her husband, family and friends. She was known as “Mom” over the years by many of her son’s friends and was always willing to provide food, shelter and prayer to anyone who was in need. Her life was her witness that she was truly a representative of Jesus Christ in this world. She was a devoted Christian who served Christ faithfully for 35 years. She was a member of the Keeler General Baptist Church and enjoyed attending all of the church functions, especially those with the ladies. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend.
     As to Kathy’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life eternal will take place at 4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 22, 2013, at the Keeler General Baptist Church, with Pastor Efrain Maya officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations in Kathy’s name be made to Efrain Maya. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford with the arrangements. Those wishing to leave condolences may do so by visiting our website at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

 
HARTFORD – Surrounded by loved ones, Anna “Ann” (Hughes) Clauser journeyed to her heavenly home on Friday, Feb. 15, 2013.
     Born Anna Marie Hughes to Arthur and Alice (Beischl) Hughes in Lawton on Dec. 2, 1946, Ann spent most of her life in rural Southwest Michigan. She was a graduate of Decatur High School and went on to marry Irving “Irv” Clauser on March 27, 1971, in Hartford, where they raised their five children, instilling in them a love of faith, family and friends. In fact, Ann and Irv had a host of friends, many of whom frequently joined them on camping trips “Up North.”
     She was a gracious and kind woman who had an unbelievably strong work ethic. From the strawberry fields she worked in as a child to the healthcare field she entered shortly after high school, Ann sowed seeds of kindness everywhere she went. Ann worked more than 20 years at the former Community Hospital in Watervliet, the majority of that time in the physical therapy department. More recently, Ann was employed at the (Bronson) nursing home in Lawton.
     Ann enjoyed spending time with her family, espe­cially her grandchildren and great-granddaughters. She had an amazing love for animals, especially her chocolate Lab, Herbie. Her nurturing spirit was evident in everything she did. Whether she was tending to her flowers, filling a bird feeder or preparing one of her amazing Sunday din­ners for her family, everything she did was out of love.
     Ann was preceded in death by her loving husband, Irving Clauser; her father, Arthur Hughes; and her parents, John and Alice Geer.
     She is survived by her children – Marc (Lisa) Clauser of Hartford, Terry (Larry) Adams of Watervliet, Raymond “Paul” Clauser of Hartford, John (Jody) Clauser of Decatur and Rebecca (Ray) Evans of Dover, Del.; her grand­children – Olivia, Kevin, Matthew, Trent, Chelsea, Zachary, Riley, Ryan and Brett; and great-grand­daughters – Hailey, Amara and McKinley.
     She is also survived by her sister, Elizabeth “Liz” (Eddie) DeLaGarza; two brothers, James “Jim” Hughes and George (Pam) Geer; several nieces and nephews; extended family; and many close friends whom she cherished, including lifetime family friends Bill and Darlene Jordan, and Carol Wadley.
     A memorial service will be at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 18, 2013, at the Hartford United Methodist Church. Memorials may be made to the Hartford United Methodist Church or Hospice of South Haven.

 
Brenda Kay Bonee, 62, of Hartford passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2013, at her home.
      Brenda was born Dec. 11, 1950, in Sadler, Ky., the daughter of Walter and Celesta (Vincent) Cook, both of whom preceded her in passing. She was also preceded in passing by a brother, David Stewart, on Sept. 25, 2004.
     Brenda was the glue that held her family together. She was a loving wife to Rayburn and a precious mother to her daughter, Cirena Bonee, both of Albion. She cherished her stepson, Michael Harris of Savannah, Tenn., and her four grandchildren. She was a dear sister to Janice Herrington of Decatur, Walter Cook of Las Vegas, Nev., and Easel (Sandra) Stewart of Hartford. Bren­da also enjoyed times with her 12 nieces and nephews; her lifetime friend, Doris Watson of Paragould, Ark.; and her many other family members and friends.
     The family will receive friends from 6-7 p.m. Sat­urday, Feb. 16, 2013, at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford, where a time of remembrance will be shared at 7 p.m. by anyone wishing to tell of their memories of Brenda. As to Brenda’s wishes, cremation will fol­low the time of remem­brance. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family. Those wishing to leave condolences may do so by visiting our web­site at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
Pamela Jo (Morsaw) McGlothlin, 58, of Hartford passed away Sunday, Feb.10, 2013, at Bronson LakeView Hospital in Paw Paw.
     Pam, as she was known, was born Aug. 11, 1954, in Watervliet, the daughter of Cardinal and Donna (Schultz) Morsaw. Pam was an elder with the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians in Dowagiac. She was formerly employed at E.S. Enterprises in Keeler. She loved going to the new casino in Hartford or just staying home and keeping her dog, Freddie, company.
     Pam enjoyed spending time with her children, Kimberly (Jason May) Morsaw of Decatur, Donna McGlothlin of South Side, Tenn., and Josie Baham of Hartford. But her most precious days were spent with her grandchildren, Joshua McGlothlin, Derek Morsaw, Jakob Baham, Samantha May and Ericka Pociask. Pam is also survived by her mother, Donna Morsaw; a sister, Barbara Burfield; three brothers, Alan (Cindy) Morsaw, Joseph (Charlotte) Morsaw and Gregory Morsaw; and numerous other family members and friends.
     As to Pam’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family service will be held at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford at a later date. Pam’s ashes will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Those wishing to leave condolences may do so by visiting our web site at www.calvin­leonardfh.com.


NOTE:  Pam was a 1972 Hartford High School graduate.

Eugene Ernest Kirsch, Hartford, passed away in February.  Additional information will be posted as it becomes available.

NOTE:  Gene was valedictorian of the 1956 class of Hartford High School.

Darlene Delores (Winkelkotter) Seddon, 78, of Hartford, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Saturday, Feb. 2, 2013. She was born Oct. 5, 1934, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Walter Egon and Ida Caroline Winkelkotter.
    
Darlene attended school in Utah. She had many interesting occupations in her life; one of her favorites was being a flight attendant in California before she married. She met her husband, Ellis George Seddon, while he was stationed in the Air Force, in Utah, during the Korean War. They were married in 1956, in Michigan. They started out their lives together farming in northeastern Michigan and later built a successful business in Hartford.
     Darlene was an extremely talented and giving person. Family meant everything to her and she cherished each and every moment, especially those when all her children and grandchildren surrounded her. Her faith was also immensely important, being a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
     Darlene is survived by her children: Judy Seddon of Orem, Utah; Shelly (Bryan) Paxson of Hartford; Stephen (Christine) Seddon of Hartford and Christopher (Melissa) Seddon of Niles. She is also survived by seven grandchildren; Rachel Paxson, Rebecca Paxson, Amy Seddon, Kassie Seddon, Alexander Seddon, Jaxon Seddon and Jaret Seddon.
     She was preceded in death by her husband; her son, Michael Seddon (whose birthday she passed away on), her parents and her sister, Carolyn Christiensen.
     The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 6, at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford. Darlene’s funeral service and burial will take place at Redwood Memorial Estates in Salt Lake City, Utah. The family is very grateful to those that assisted in helping her as her health declined and wish to express gratitude for the kindness shown our mother by Bronson Lakeview Hospital in Paw Paw, Hospice of Southwest Michigan and Bronson Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Lawton. Those wishing to leave condolences may do so by visiting our web site at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
    

Thomas E. Talbott, of Portage MI, died Thursday afternoon January 31, 2013 at his residence. 
     Tom was born September 11, 1945 in Kalamazoo, Michigan to Maurice and Twila (Eames) Talbott. His family moved to Hartford in his early childhood and he graduated from high school in 1963. Tom attended Ferris State College, graduating in 1967 with a degree in business administration. While there, he was a member of Delta Sigma Pi business fraternity. Out of college, he began working at General Telephone Co. in Muskegon before moving to Kalamazoo where he secured employment with Fisher Body, a division of General Motors becoming a member of the UAW, he retired from there when the plant closed. Tom was also a long-time member of St. Michael Lutheran Church in Portage. He was a genius when it came to working with numbers and financial planning, often being asked for advice by his peers. While a quiet man who kept mostly to himself, he had some very close and dear friends, many from his high school days.
     In 1965, he was married to Martha Case, and is survived by one daughter and two sons: Kimera Simonds of Vicksburg, Thomas J. Talbott of Portage and Paul (Lori) Talbott of Kalamazoo along with 9 grandchildren: Michael Talbott, Brittany Talbott, Casey Talbott, Jayden Talbott, Jordyn Talbott, Shelby Simonds, Matthew Simonds, Madelyn Talbott and Marissa Talbott and 2 great grandchildren. He is also survived by a sister, Nancy Roberson of Arkansas, 2 nieces and a nephew, as well as his very special friend, Jeanie Oppermann of Wisconsin, and Wiley.
     Services will be held 11 o’clock Monday at St. Michael Lutheran Church, 7211 Oakland Dr. Visitation will be 2-4 and 6-8 pm Sunday at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel, 411 E. Centre Ave. Private interment will be in Riverside Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the St. Michael Lutheran Church School Fund.
     Click here for a slide video of Tom’s life.
 
Ruby C. Roberts, 90, of Hartford, formerly of Fennville, passed away peacefully at her daughter’s home on Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013.
     Born Dec. 10, 1922, in Clarksville, Ark., she was the daughter of William and Laura (Sluter) Harbert. Ruby worked as a machine operator for Hart & Cooley in Holland, retiring in 1982. Ruby lived in the Fennville area for many years, moving to Hartford about 20 years ago. She was a member of the New Beginnings Ministries in Bangor.
     Surviving are her children, Irene Reed of Fennville, Annette Roberts of California, Joyce and Alvin Ammon of Hartford, and Wes Roberts of Newaygo, Mich; 15 grandchildren; and many greatgrandchildren.
     Funeral services will be at noon Monday, Jan. 28, 2013, at the Chappell Funeral Home, 637 W. Main St., Fennville, with Pastor Mack Travis officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the time of service. Burial will be in Fennville Cemetery. Memorial donations may be to the charity of one’s choice. An online registry book is available at www.chappellfuneralhome.com.
 

J. Franklin Keifer, 92, of Keeler passed away Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013, at Maple Lawn Medical Care Facility, Coldwater. 
     Franklin was born Aug. 26, 1920, in Willshire, Ohio, the son of James and Wilma (Daly) Keifer, both of whom precede him in passing. Also preceding him in passing were his wife, Elaine, on March 1, 2008, and two brothers, Tom Keifer and Paul Keifer.
     Franklin served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was formerly employed with Clark Equipment and Coloma Farm Supply. He grew up and lived in Coloma before moving to Keeler in 1960, where he tended to his own farm.
     Franklin is survived by two daughters, Bernice Krause of Coldwater and Wilma Stone of Kalamazoo; a son, James (Nanette) Keifer of Hartford; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a brother, Marvin Keifer of Tennessee.
     The family will welcome friends from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 31, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service to honor his memory will commence at 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 1, at the Keeler United Methodist Church, with Pastor Richard Grom serving as officiant. Military rites will be conducted by the North Berrien Military Rites Team. Cremation will follow the services. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences to the family may do so at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

 

The life of Billy Joe Nimmo began Dec. 12, 1934, in Manila, Ark. He grew up in Arkansas and Michigan and as an adult he made his home in Southwest Michigan.
      Billy worked for Bendix as an inspector until he retired in 1989. He enjoyed visiting the casinos in his spare time.
      Billy’s loving family includes three children, Cheryl (Larry) Lee of Spanaway, Wash., Thomas (Stacy) Nimmo of Portage and Christopher Nimmo of Tukwila, Wash.; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; three siblings, Ronnie Nimmo of Hanford, Calif., Betty Nimmo Grayson of Beaverton, Ore., and Lula Bell Nimmo of southern Pennsylvania; and many nieces and nephews.
      Billy died Sunday, Jan. 20, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph. He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Beulah Nimmo; three brothers, Bob Nimmo, Charles Nimmo and Donald Nimmo; and a sister, Joy Lynn Nimmo Scruggs.
      Friends may visit with Billy’s family from 6-8 p.m. Fri­day, Jan. 25, at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet, where funeral services will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 26. Burial will follow in North Shore Memory Gardens in Hagar Shores.
 
Elmer Arthur Deckert, 88, of Hartford passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2013, at his home.
     Elmer was born March 3, 1924, in Milan, the son of Louis and Elvina (Kotke) Deckert, both of whom preceded him in passing. Elmer was also preceded in passing by his wife, Pauline, on July 24, 2009; a daughter, Susan Marie Deckert; four brothers, August Deckert, Waldo Deckert, Merl Deckert and Earl Deckert; and four sisters, Lydia Herman, Ruth Kruger, Freda Kruger and Delores Deckert.
     Elmer is survived by his loving family, which consists of his two sons, Ronald Deckert of Marion, Ky., and David Deckert of Hartford; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and a brother, Gerald (Ann) Deckert of Saint Joseph.
     Elmer served his country proudly in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was a member of the American Legion Stoddard Post 93 of Hartford, was a faithful member of the Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hartford, was a Sunday school teacher and served the church in many capacities. Elmer retired from Whirlpool Corp. in 1988.
     As to Elmer’s wishes, cre­mation has taken place and a memorial service to honor his memory will take place at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 23, 2013, at the Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hartford. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Elmer’s name may be made to the church’s benevolence fund. The family has entrusted arrangements to the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. Those wishing to leave condolences may do so by visiting our website at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.
 
James Carmichael,  75, of Dowagiac, formerly of Hartford, passed away Thursday, Jan. 17, 2013, at The Timbers of Cass County in Dowagiac.
     James was born Oct. 18, 1937, in Coulterville, Ill., the son of Roy and (Ruth) Carmichael, both of whom preceded him in passing. James was also preceded in passing by a sister, Maxine Frost; and two brothers, Raymond and Earnest Carmichael.
     James served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was formerly employed as a truck driver for such companies as Pools and Walmart, was a salesman for Ashley Ford and also worked for Southern Bell Telephone Co.
     James is survived by his five children – Marsha, Marla, James Jr., Todd and Joey; his siblings – Elizabeth Slabaugh of Dowagiac, Mary Wagster of Battle Creek, Robert (Emily) Carmichael of Watervliet, Jack (Mary) Carmichael of Battle Creek, Zelda (Bill) Giliberto of Watervliet and Geraldine (Gary) Dillion of Benton Harbor; and numerous nieces, nephews and other family members.
     The family will welcome friends from noon to 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 21, 2013, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where the service to honor James’ memory will begin at 1 p.m. James will be laid to rest in Keeler Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family. Those wishing to leave condolences may do so by visiting online at http:// www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

 
Janice Lea Pyburn, 65, of Bangor passed away Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2013, at Bronson Methodist Hospital, Kalamazoo.
      Janice was born Feb. 21, 1947, in Watervliet, the daughter of Irving and Thelma (Strand) Yeckley, both of whom preceded her in passing. She was also preceded in passing by a sister, Mary Knowles. In Janice’s spare time she enjoyed crocheting and painting.
     Janice is survived by four children, Tami (David) Kuhm of Pittsburgh, Pa., Lisa (Adam) Clark of Deltona, Fla., Travis McNees of Decatur and Charity (Chris) Cummins of Hartford; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; a brother, Wayne (Bonnie) Schoenemann of South Haven; and a dear friend, Regina Wetzel of Bangor.
     As per Janice’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service to honor her memory will commence at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 19, at the Miracle Harvest Church, South Haven, with Pastor Tony Kuenzli officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Janice’s name may be made to the family. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford with handling the arrangements. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences to the family may do so at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

NOTE:  Janice was a member of the 1966 Class of Hartford High School.  She was also appointed Hartford City Clerk under the Boyd Estes administration in 1979 and resigned in 1980 after being reelected.
 

Steven Allen Efting, 50, of Bangor passed away suddenly on Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2013, in South Haven as a result of injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident.
     Steve was born April 5, 1962, in Watervliet, the son of Ross and Vickie (Schaus) Efting. After he graduated from high school in 1980 Steve went on to become part owner of Efting’s Eggery and worked there for more than 25 years. More recently he worked as a department manager at Harding’s in Bangor and owned and operated his own vendor business.
     He married the former Penny Mead on May 15, 1982, and they were together for more 30 years. They had two children, Shana (26) and Mark (21). A loving husband and father, he worked hard to provide for his family. Steve enjoyed fishing, was an excellent water skier and loved riding both his three-wheeler and his Harley.
     Steve is survived by his wife, Penny; his daughter, Shana; his son, Mark; his parents, Ross and Vickie of Bangor; a brother, Greg, of Bangor; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and other family members.
     The family will welcome friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 21, at Hartford Federated Church, where the funeral service to celebrate his life will commence at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 22.
     Pastor David Gilbert will serve as officiant. A private burial will follow the services at Thomas Cemetery, Bangor.
     The family requests memorial donations be made to the Hartford Federated Church.
     Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so at www.calvin-leonardfh. com.

 


By ANDREW LERSTEN and BECKY KARK

H-P South Haven Bureau
Jan 16, 2013


SOUTH HAVEN — A well-known snacks delivery route driver in the South Haven area was killed Wednesday in a two-vehicle crash.
     Steven Efting, 50, of Bangor Township died at the scene of the 7:15 a.m. crash on Phoenix Road at 711⁄2 Street, South Haven Police Sgt. Kyle Griffith said. Efting was eastbound on Phoenix when a mini­van failed to stop at the stop sign and pulled onto Phoenix from southbound 711⁄2 Street, colliding with Efting’s Little Debbie snacks delivery truck, Griffith said.
     The woman could not explain to police why she didn’t stop at the stop sign, Griffith said. She was treated for non-life-threatening injuries at the South Haven hospital. Police did not release her name, pending a review of the police report by the Van Buren County Prosecutor’s Office. The crash impact over­turned the delivery truck, and boxes of Little Debbie snack cakes spilled onto the ground. Police said Efting was not wearing a seat belt, and he was found partly out of the truck when police arrived.
     Shawn Weldon of South Haven, a passing motorist who witnessed the crash and then helped get the woman out of the minivan, offered an account of what happened.
     “I was taking my daughter to school and west on County Road 388 (Phoenix),” he said. “I saw the van and slowed down because it didn’t look like she was going to stop. Then I slowed down more. I thought she might miss the truck, but then she slammed into it. “I got her out because I smelled gasoline. I had blood all over me. I didn’t even realize it at first.”
     Efting was known to many area store clerks because he made regular stops at the stores every Sunday and Wednesday morning.
     “He was a great guy,” said Village Xpress clerk Becky Rickett. “He always had a smile on his face. He was a pleasure to be around. This is very, very, very sad. He’ll be missed, for sure.”
     Efting had been a whole­sale distributor for Little Debbie and Sunbelt brand snacks for the past five years, and his company was called Steve Efting Inc., said Little Debbie company spokesman Mike Gloekler. “We were saddened to learn this morning that Steve Efting was killed in a traffic accident,” Gloekler said.

Note:  For many years, Steve delivered eggs from the family business, Efting Eggery, to the Hartford Hardings store and was employed by Hartford Hardings Market, prior to starting with Little Debbie and Sunbelt. 
 

Vernice I. Weir, 85, formerly of Hartford, passed away Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, at Lakeview Community Hospital in Paw Paw.
     Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home in Coloma. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Watervliet. Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Memorial donations may be made to the family and then distributed to several various charities.
     Those wishing to leave an online message or share a memory with the family may do so at www.duffieldpastrick.com.
     Vernice was one of 10 children of Otto and Martha Fuchs and was born on March 7, 1927, in Gillett, Ark. She married Elmer Weir in 1947 and was formerly employed at Duffy Motts in Hartford for eight years. Vernice loved to buy and sell antiques, enjoyed talking with her neighbors and loved to eat out. She especially enjoyed visiting with her grandchildren and great-grand­children.
     Vernice is survived by six daughters, Margie (Tommy) Ross of Gillett, Ark., Marie Clouse of Benton Harbor, Connie Cannon of Hartford, Pat (Hartley) Collins of Hartford, Sheila Garcia of Pembroke Pines, Fla., and Teila White of Stevensville; three sons, Ted (Kay) Weir of Gillett, Ark., Timothy Weir of Hartford and Richard (Dawn) Weir of Watervliet; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
     She was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer, in 1999; her parents; four brothers; and three sisters
Joan Elaine Meachum, 68, of Hartford was called home Thursday, Jan. 10, 2013, at her home.
      Joan was born Jan. 16, 1944, in Watervliet, the daughter of James and Beatrice (Peck) Smith, both of whom preceded her in passing. She was also preceded in passing by her husband, Maurice, on Oct. 14, 2007, and a sister, Laura Edison.
      Joan loved the family get togethers and just spending time with her family, which consists of her three children and their families: Joan’s daughter, Tonya L. Raday, had four children, Kathy, who has three children, Kiandra, Teya and Kila; Michelle and Michelle’s child, Otto; Amber and Amber’s two children, Noah and Isaiah; and Sean. Joan’s son, Michael E. (Vickie M.) Meachum, had two children, Jared and Gabriel. Another son, James R. (Ava) Meachum, had five children, Ashley and her child, Kylee; Casey and her three children, Bella, James and Chase; Alyssa; David; and Matt.
      Joan is also survived by two sisters, Lorraine (Cliff) Berg of Utah and Laverne (Wally) Shelton of North Carolina.
      Joan served many years at the Van Buren Sportsman’s Club in Hartford. She was formerly employed at the Cast Matic Corp. of Stevensville and had a passion for gardening, as shown by the many hours she spent making the outdoors at her home so beautiful.
      As to Joan’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life Eternal will take place at 2 p.m. Jan. 20, 2013, at the Van Buren Sportsman’s Club, followed by a luncheon and a time of fellowship and remembrance. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations in Joan’s name be made to the Van Buren Sportsman’s Club. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford with the arrangements. Those wishing to leave condolences may do so by visiting our website at http//www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

 
William “Bill” Galbreath, 90, of Stevensville passed away Monday, Jan. 7, 2013, at Caretel Inns of Lakeland in St. Joseph.
     William was born Sept. 14, 1922, in Hartford to Stanton and Margaret (Cronin) Galbreath. He graduated from Hartford High School in 1939 and then attended Western Michigan University, where he received his Master’s Degree. He served his country in the U.S. Army and was a veteran of World War II, serving in the European Theater. William spent more than 28 years in public education in Michigan as teacher, principal and superintendent of the schools. His last service was with Lakeshore Schools as Assistant Superintendent from 1965 through 1980. William and Ida also hosted eight German exchange students.
     William was a member of the American Association of Schools Administrators and the American Schools Business Officials and the Michigan Chapters of both of those organizations. He served as Lincoln Township Supervisor from 1980 through 1984, was Charter President of the Lakeshore Rotary Club and served as Governor of Rotary District 636 in 1978-1979. William was also a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church.
     William is survived by his wife, Ida Galbreath of Stevensville, and several nieces and nephews.
     William was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Marybelle Reid, Peggy McCall and Betty Webb; and three brothers, James Galbreath, Robert Galbreath and Richard Galbreath.
     A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 10, 2013, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 211 Church St., St. Joseph. Burial will follow at Lincoln Township Cemetery in Stevensville. Friends may visit from 2-4 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013, at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph. Memorials may be made to the Lakeshore Rotary Club Foundation, Hospice at Home or the Lakeshore Excellence Foundation. Those wishing to share a memory of William online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.

 
Geronimo Lugo Mireles Jr., 71, of Hartford passed away Sunday, Jan. 6, 2013, at home with his family by his side.
     Geronimo was born Sept. 8, 1941, in San Antonio, Texas, the son of Geronimo and Sara (Lugo) Mireles, both of whom preceded him in passing. He was also preceded in passing by a daughter, Yolanda Mireles; a grandson, Geronimo Contreras; and two brothers, Pedro and Felix Mireles. On April 24, 1960, he married Oralia Cuellar, who survives along with two sons, Daniel (Judy) Mireles of Hartford and David (Kim) Mireles of Paw Paw; three daughters, Rachel (Edward) Contreras, Elida (Jose) Segura and Christina Mireles, all of Hartford; 23 grandchildren; 14 great­grandchildren; and nine siblings, Gloria, Margaret, Jose, Ruben, Felipe, Julio, Fidel, Manuel and Estaban.
     Geronimo was formerly employed by the Village of Paw Paw and the Point of Woods Golf Course in Benton Harbor. He and his wife operated a concession stand in the 1960s at the old fairgrounds when it was located by the Hartford Speedway. He also loved to cook for the family gatherings.
     The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 10, 2013, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Hartford. The Mass of Christian Burial will be said at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 11, 2013, at the church, with Father Fabio Garzon as the Celebrant. Geronimo will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. The Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford is assisting the family. Any memorial donations should be made out to the family. Those wishing to leave condolences may do so by visiting our website at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

 
Ruth "Ellen" (Shafer) MarvinOur Mom, baptised Ruth Elinor Shafer but called Ellen all her life, died Thursday, January 3, 2013 at Valley View Nursing Center. Her passing was eased by the gentle and loving care of the wonderful staff on Sunrise Terrace, who treated her like a member of their family during her year with them. She had reached the age of 92, as did our father, Art Marvin, who died in 2006. Mom always said she had a wonderful life, from her childhood in Hartford, Michigan, (one of seven children born [January 26, 1920 in Hartford MI] to Dell and Ruth Shafer and raised in the fruit farming business) through her married years raising four children, then later as the beloved matriarch, nicknamed Gigi, to her 7 grand and 7 great grandchildren.
       In 1943 after graduating from nursing school in Kalamazoo, Mom enlisted in the Navy as a nurse, assigned to Bainbridge Hospital in Maryland. Within weeks she was caught up in a whirlwind romance with our Dad, a handsome officer she met at a dance. They were married 6 weeks later. You can’t read through the stack of letters exchanged during this short period without feeling the thrill of young love. Our parents were married for 63 years, most of which were spent in Garden View, where, in addition to Dad’s job at Bethlehem Steel they operated Marvin’s Fruit Farm in the summertime. As the years passed and the kids grew up, Mom took up her work again, serving as a school nurse in several area schools. In her 50’s she earned a Master’s degree from Bucknell as a school psychologist, surprising even herself that she could accomplish such a feat.
        Our parents enjoyed almost 25 years of happy retirement together. Both Life Masters in duplicate bridge, they traveled extensively in search of a tournament or a new experience. They were regulars at the Williamsport Bridge Club and had many longtime friends there. Mom was a person who always saw the glass as half-full, who rarely passed judgment on others. She taught us by example to be happy, to be kind, to be responsible. She gave us a love of home-baked desserts, of seeing the funny side of things, of plunging into the ocean no matter how cold the water. She seemed to have boundless energy and boundless cheer. She loved her family unconditionally.
        She is survived by her four children, Merrily Frey and Nancy Lindoerfer (Armando Robles) of South Williamsport, Jackson Marvin (Michelle Franks) of Anchorage, AK, and Jim Marvin of San Antonio, TX. Grandchildren are Pascha (Dave) Frey Ferry, Chanda (Ryan) Frey Grimes, Jessica (Nate Sebold)and Daniel (LeeAnn Kinney) Lindoerfer, Brook and Sky Marvin, and Amber (Cory) Marvin Wiley. Great grandchildren are Tiarnan, Liam and Mairead Ferry, Brendan and Calla Grimes, and Rowen and Iris Wiley. She leaves brothers Robert and Steven (Ginny) Shafer.
        Visitation will be on Sunday, January 6 at 3 p.m. at Knight-Confer Funeral Home, 1914 Memorial Avenue. Funeral service will follow at 4 p.m.
        In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 57 N. Franklin St., Wilkes-Barre, PA  18701-1317.

NOTE:  Ellen was a 1937 Hartford High School graduate.
 

Drake Edward Sinclair, infant son of Ted and Candi Sinclair of Hartford, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2013, at the South Haven Health System.
     Drake is survived by his parents; a brother, Jacob Sinclair, at home; his grandparents, Wanda Drake of Hartford and Larry and Dovie Downey of Watervliet; his aunt, Misty Drake of Long Beach Calif.; his uncle, Scott (Ashley Barricklow) Downey of Hartford; and a cousin, Gavin Downey of Hartford.
     A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, Jan. 7, 2013, at Maple Hill Cemetery in Hartford. Those wishing to leave a message of condolence for the family can do so online at www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

 
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                            Obituar
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Please email the webmaster if you have obituaries of people who lived in Hartford Michigan, or was active in the Hartford community, at some time during their lives. To find a specific obituary, use the  Search Our Site  feature, also located on the 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 (or learn of the passing away of someone who lived in Hartford at one time) of a former Hartford resident from a newspaper away from the Hartford area, please send it. Past obituaries will be added as time permits.  Death notices are also posted in the HHS graduate database.
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Thomas Edward Bedwell, 54, of Hartford passed away Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2009, at his home.
     Tom, as he was known by everyone, was born Jan. 19, 1955, in Holly, the son of Thomas and Sharon (Sutherby) Bedwell.
     Tom went to work at an early age, working for the city of Hartford, which was one of the best jobs anyone could have had. He also was formerly employed at Burnette Foods of Keeler. Tom was a loving and caring person who would help anyone in need, as shown with his work in health care, working at Community Hospital in Watervliet and going to peoples’ homes who could not get out. He not only helped them with medical needs, but would also lift them spiritually. He loved his family dearly and cherished his church family as a member of the Hartford Church of God.
     Tom is survived by three children: Chad (Debbie) Bedwell, Sally (Les) Sexton and Troy (April) Bedwell, all of Hartford; six grandchildren: Stephanie, Jason, Brooklyn, Marty, Hunter and Thomas; and three great-grandchildren: Savannah, Sierra and Blair, Jr. He also is survived by his mother, Sharon of Hartford; a brother, Martin (Linda) Bedwell of Los Angeles; a sister, Theresa (Dean) Kress of Greenville, Ohio; and his ex-wife, Christine (Arnold) Tillman.
     Tom was preceded in passing by his father, Thomas, and two brothers, Dennis Bedwell and Steven Alan Bedwell.
     The family will welcome friends from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 2, at the Hartford Church of God, where the service to honor his memory will commence at 1 p.m. Pastor Eric Jackson will serve as officiant. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Memorial donations in Tom’s name may be made to the Hartford Church of God or Borgess Visiting Nurse and Hospice. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangements.

 
Peter Johnson, 89, formerly of Hartford, passed away Monday, Dec. 28, 2009, at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in Little Rock, Ark. Committal services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 4, 2010, at North Shore Memory Gardens in Hagar Shores, with full military rites. Peter was born on June 27, 1920, in Mansfield, Mo., to John and Opal Johnson.
     He proudly served his country during World War II in the United States Navy. Together with his wife of 51 years, Bobbie Jean, he had three children – Shirley, Jerry and Peter. Peter began his career working in heating and air conditioning at Home Heating in St. Joseph. Later he founded Johnson’s Heating in Coloma, which he managed for many years. Peter enjoyed collecting and refurbishing antiques, woodworking and gardening. Most of all, he will be remembered as a caring man who enjoyed family life.
     Peter is survived by his daughter, Shirley Fae (Peter) Mengel of Kalamazoo; son, Peter (Sandy) Johnson of Hartford; daughter-in-law, Candy Johnson of Kalamazoo; grandchildren — Peter and Scott Mengel, Jeremy Johnson, Wendy Spangler, and Peter R. Johnson Jr.; great-grandchildren — Nicole Newton, Dalton Graham, Sierra Rodda, Andrew Spangler, Elliott Spangler, Andrianne Johnson and Rebecca Johnson; and by his special friend, Paula Millyard.
     In addition to his parents, Peter was preceded in death by his wife, Bobbie Jean; son, Jerry D. Johnson; four brothers and three sisters; and by a great-grandson, Alan Peter Mengel.
Lloyd Francis Yates, 69, of Luther, Mich., formerly of Hartford, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 27, 2009, at his stepdaughter's home in Lawrence.
     Lloyd was born on Dec. 28, 1939, in Englewood, Ill. He was the son of Clarence and Nellie (Skaggs) Yates.
     Lloyd proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. After his tours of duty, Lloyd worked at various places before he went into farming for the rest of his working years. He enjoyed the outdoors, being an avid hunter and fisherman.
     Lloyd is survived by his children - Patrick Yates of Seattle, Wash., Amanda Yates of Auburn, Wash., and Shad Yates of Carroll City, Ark.; eight grandchildren; his brothers, Richard (Ann) Yates of Bangor and Raymond Yates of Hartford; stepbrothers, Monte Boynton of New Orleans and James Boynton of Baraga, Mich.; and stepmother, Alma Yates of Kalamazoo.
     Lloyd was preceded in death by his parents; four sisters - Betty Woods, Sylvia Bond, Nancy Yates and Florence Berends; a brother, Clarence Yates; and his loving companion, Betty Fuller.
     As per Lloyd's wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be a private memorial service at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Lloyd's name may be made to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan. The Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford has been entrusted with the arrangements.

NOTE: He was a 1958 Hartford High School graduate.

Brenda Ruth Barrett, 65, of Benton Harbor, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2009, at her home.
     Brenda was born March 18, 1944, in Harrisburg, Ark., the daughter of Miles and Geneva (Cooper) Hamilton, both of whom preceded her in passing. She was also preceded in passing by a son, James Barrett Jr., and a brother, Gerald Hamilton.
     Brenda was formerly employed with Woolin Products in Stevensville, but most importantly she enjoyed being a homemaker. She enjoyed being with family and friends. She was a dedicated woman to God, attending the Yore Community Church.
     Brenda married James Barrett on Sept. 2, 1964. He survives, along with three daughters – Regina Barrett of South Bend, Dana (Gary) French of Mishawaka and Karla (Joe) Pepple of Benton Harbor; a son, Jason (Katherine) Barrett of Hartford; grandchildren – Corissa, Tia, Elizabeth, Kayla, McKenna, Julia, Lillian and Jason-James. She is also survived by seven brothers and sisters – Nancy (Ken) Daugherty of Benton Harbor, Johnny (Terry) Hamilton of Niles, Dan (Barbara) Hamilton of Hartford, Sherman (Connie) Hamilton of Berrien Center, Curtis (Tammy) Hamilton of Watervliet, Sandy Hamilton of Benton Harbor and Becky (Dan) Cowgill of Henderson, Nev.; and many nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.
     The family will welcome friends from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 27, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service to honor her memory will commence at 1 p.m. Monday, Dec. 28, at the funeral home, with the Rev. Jim Dunn serving as officiant. Burial will follow in Fairview Memorial Cemetery, Watervliet.
     In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations in Brenda’s name be made to Lakeland Hospice.

Note:  Brenda and her family lived in Hartford while their children were in school.
 

Phoebe Jane Woulfe, 78, of Hartford passed away Saturday, Dec. 19, 2009, at home.
     Phoebe was born Feb. 17, 1931, in Benton Harbor, the daughter of Albert and Katherine (Austin) Long, both of whom preceded her in passing. Phoebe was also preceded in death by her husbands, Joel Davis on Aug. 20, 1976, and Edward Woulfe on April 20, 2003; three sisters and two brothers.
     Phoebe is survived by her children, Pamela (Don) Mills, Debra (Richard) Weston, both of Hartford and Steven Davis of Bangor, a sister, Jessica (Jesse) DeMay of Coloma; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and many special friends.
     Phoebe held many jobs in her lifetime, with the most recent at the Watervliet Burger King, where she met and made many friends. She had a zest for life and always said she was going to go as long as she could. She loved mushroom hunting, walks in the woods and family. The “almost auto pilot” on her “boat buggy” got her around to her favorite casinos anytime the urge would hit. Phoebe will truly be missed.
     The family will welcome friends from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 22, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service to honor her memory will commence at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 23, at the funeral home with Bob Gendron officiating. Phoebe will be laid to rest in Keeler Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family and Phoebe would like to request donations be made to Borgess Visiting Nurse and Hospice or the American Cancer Society.

 

Cecil Roy Wismer,
age 70,  died December 12, 2009 at Rose Arbor Hospice Residence in Kalamazoo MI.
 
     Cecil was born on Sept. 25, 1939, in Benton Harbor. He was the son of Cecil and Elva (Jones) Wismer, both of whom preceded him in passing.
     Cecil was a member of the 1957 graduating class of Hartford High School. He married the former Mary Pubanz on Aug. 20, 1966. Mary passed away on June 6, 2007, after many years of ill health.
Cecil served his country proudly in the United States Navy.
 After his tour of duty, Cecil worked at Auto Specialties, Michigan Tube (Hoffman Industries) in Eau Claire and for 26 years at Whirlpool Corp. While working at Whirlpool, Cecil owned and operated Owens Gas Station in Benton Harbor.
     While in the service, Cecil bowled aboard ship, and from there on he was an avid bowler who bowled at Lakes Bowl, Gersondies (Kelly’s Bowl), Blossom Lanes, Coloma Lanes and the Old Recreation Lanes for more than 50 years. During the summer Cecil was seen at the Hartford Recreation fields, watching his children and grandchildren play ball and for a few years coached baseball in the Hartford Recreation Leagues.
     Cecil is survived by a son, Cecil (Diane) Wismer of Hartford; two daughters, Lisa (Patrick) Wilkinson of South Haven and Michelle (Gregory Jr.) Bond of Kalamazoo; five grandchildren; and two sisters, Donna Obermesik of Hartford and Alice (Ron) Nelson of Niles.
     Following Cecil’s wishes, cremation has taken place. The family will welcome friends from 1 to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 22, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, at which time a service to honor his memory will commence. Pastor Timothy Nyhuis of the Hartford Federated Church will officiate. Both Cecil and Mary’s ashes will be laid to rest in Keeler Cemetery following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or Hospice of Southwest Michigan.
 

Jeremy Lee Ashley, 22, left us on December 10, 2009 to join God’s army as a warrior angel.  He was born in Berrien Springs MI on August 12, 1987 to Sherry Ashley and Jose Magallanes.  Jeremy lived in Hartford and attended Watervliet schools from Kindergarten to 11th grade and then graduated from Coloma in 2005 when his family moved.
     Jeremy played football, was a member of Science Olympiad and various other clubs. He was best known for his wrestling skills and wrestled at 130 and 135 lbs in high school.  In 2006, Jeremy moved to Indianapolis and became an MMA Professional fighter.  His trainers described him as being born with a gift and fighting with heart.     

     His memory will be kept alive in Indianapolis by his fighting club. 
We are going to play a video, a special song, and recognize Jeremy at our 1/8 fights. We are also creating the
Jeremy Ashley Heart Award that will be awarded to a fighter who had Jeremy's amazing heart at every show. We are also going to do some type of fund raiser at the next few events to fund a Jeremy Ashley Fund, that will sponsor "at risk type" fighters. His spirit and legend will remain in tact.
     Jeremy is survived by his mother, Sherry Ashley of Hartford MI, and his father Jose Magallanes of Indianapolis IN; grandmothers, Ruby Ashley of Keeler MI and Abuela Magallanes of Indianapolis IN; brothers, Adan Barajas and Jose Barajas; and sister, Gabriella Barajas.  Jeremy is also survived by Uncles, Bill Ashley of Hartford, Corey Ashley of Kalamazoo MI, Lalo Magallanes of Anderson IN, and Alberto, Lupe, Rosario Magallanes of Chicago IL and aunts,
Lee Ann Ashley of Hartford, Rutila Magallanes of Anderson IN.
     Jeremy was a
wonderful son, grandson, nephew and brother and an awesome friend.  He was laid to rest in Anderson, Indiana on December 15, 2009 at Maplewood Cemetery.  Many people attended the ceremony and shared their stories of Jeremy touching their lives.  Those who wish to leave messages for his family may join the group on facebook “In Remembrance of Jeremy “Wild Thing” Ashley
     There will be a candlelight ceremony on Monday, December 21 at 7:30 pm in the Watervliet High School parking lot for anyone to attend.
 

Thomas Michael Muller, 58, of Hartford, went to be with his Savior unexpectedly on Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2009.
     Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 15, at Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home in Coloma. Visitation will be held Monday, Dec. 14, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial with military honors will take place at Maple Hill Cemetery in Hartford. Memorials in memory of Tom may be made to the donor’s choice. Those wishing to sign the online guest book or leave a message of comfort for the family may do so at www.duffieldpastrick.com.
     Tom was born on Nov. 26, 1951, in Benton Harbor, to Michael and Evelyn (Schadler) Muller. He graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1969. Tom received an associate’s degree in electrical engineering from Lake Michigan College in 1971. He graduated in the top of his class.
     Tom served his country in the United States Army from 1972 to 1974. He was stationed in Key West, Fla., and worked in the field of electronics.
     He married the love of his life, Pamala Carol Prince on June 28, 1975, in Hartford, at the Federated Church.
     Tom was a foreman at AEP, where he was employed for 34 years. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and a member of the NRA. Tom went to Alaska and Canada hunting and in 2007 he also went on a safari to Africa for one month. It was a lifelong dream that he had. He enjoyed taking his boat out on Lake Michigan. In the winter months he especially loved ice fishing at Maple Lake in Paw Paw.
     Tom is survived by his wife, Pam; his son, Michael (Maria) Muller of Hartford; daughter, Christine (David) Rainwater of Dowagiac; twin sister, Carol Cartwright of Hartford; four granddaughters – Cheyanne, Melissa, Emily and Allie; and several nieces and nephews.
     Tom loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them. He will be missed by those who knew him.
     Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Evelyn Muller.

The Herald-Palladium
12-11-2009

     The man who died Wednesday night when his pickup truck flipped over in a water-filled ditch has been identified as Thomas Mueller of the Hartford area, state police said Thursday.
     Mueller, 58, was driving on County Road 687 south of 72nd Avenue in Keeler Township just before 8 p.m. when he lost control of his truck and it went into the ditch and flipped upside down, said Sgt. Thomas Coles of the Paw Paw post.
     “A witness said it looked like he was sliding out of control and he went off the road,” Coles said. “It was icy and he was trapped in the vehicle, submerged. He actually drowned,” said Reserve Lt. Steve Starner of the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Department.

Robert W. Cummins, 52, of Bangor, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2009, at the home of his sister. The family will meet friends on Monday, Dec. 14, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Bangor Chapel, D.L. Miller Funeral Home, with funeral services at 4 p.m., with the Rev. Anthony Kuenzli officiating. According to his wishes, cremation will take place following the services.
     Robert was born June 23, 1957, in Watervliet, the son of Oscar and Betty (Spicher) Cummins, and had lived all of his life in the area. He graduated from Hartford High School in 1977 and enjoyed traveling, collecting die-cast cars and being in the outdoors.
     Surviving are a brother, Roger (Angel) Cummins of South Haven; a sister, Ruthie (Alvaro) Hurtado of Bangor; six half-brothers – Olan Cummins of Fennville, John Cummins of Bangor, Danny Cummins of Bangor, Rick Cummins of Arkansas, Chris Cummins of Hartford and Terry Cummins of Bangor; three half-sisters – Brenda Murphy of Bangor, Peggy Hessey of Paw Paw and Bonnie Smith of Arkansas; and many nieces and nephews.
     He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Randy.

 
Charleen May Kellogg, 77, of Niles, passed away gently on Dec. 9, 2009, surrounded by her husband and children.
     Charleen was born on May 13, 1932, in Kensington, Kan., to the late Ernest and Laura (Ely) Reneberg. She was one of two children growing up in the Reneberg household. Charleen lived most of her life in Hartford.
     Charleen received her Bachelors of Art from Michigan State University and her Master of Arts as a reading specialist from Western Michigan University. Charleen was a member of the Wesley United Methodist Church in Niles and was always active in the church, school and hospital settings. Her joy for life and wonderment in nature were a reminder to us all to cherish each day. Her faith and outreaching love touched many. Her prayer list of more than 120 people was a constant in her day. Her family was blessed to have her in their lives.
     She was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Laura; and sister-in-law Carolyn Reneberg.
     Charleen is survived by her devoted husband of 56 years, Schuyler; children – Karen Kellogg of Niles; Mark (Leane) Kellogg of Hartford; and Christopher (David Venne) Kellogg of Grand Rapids; and brother, Jerrel Reneberg of Cassopolis. She was also a loving grandmother to Megan (Neil) Bahbah, Norman Kellogg and Gina Kellogg; and has one great-grandson, Jake Bahbah.
     Donations may be made in Charleen’s memory to Wesley United Methodist Church located at 302 Cedar St., Niles, MI 49120.
     Condolences, photos and memories may be left for the family at www.brownfuneralhomeniles.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services and Mission Hills Memorial Chapel, both of Niles.

 
Gretchen (Bacon) Chaddock, 102, of Elkhart, died at 12:50 p.m. Monday (Dec. 7, 2009) at Valley View Healthcare.
     She was born July 9, 1907, in Munich, Germany, to Irving R. and Elfleda (Wheeler) Bacon. She was married to Robert J. Kubin for 12 years, to Allen O. Adams for 30 years and to Harold Chaddock for 20 years. Each preceded her in death.
     Surviving are a daughter, Portia (John) Borg of Elkhart; five grandsons
Joseph (Peggy) Frontczak of Watervliet, Mark (Jean) Frontczak of Sedro Woolley, Wash., Eric Frontczak of Elkhart, Dick Berndt of Stevensville and Steve Berndt of Baroda; nine great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren. Five siblings and one daughter, Tonda Berndt, are deceased. 
     Mrs. Chaddock was a homemaker who loved to read. She lived in Florida for 20 years, then moved to South Haven, Mich., where she resided until she moved in with her daughter and son-in-law in Elkhart five years ago. She moved to Valley View for rehabilitation following an accident.
     Friends may call from noon until the 2 p.m. service Tuesday at Calvin Funeral Home, 8 E. Main St., Hartford, Mich. Burial will be in Keeler Cemetery, Keeler Township, Mich.
     There are no services scheduled for Elkhart. Walley-Mills-Zimmerman Funeral Home in Elkhart assisted with arrangements. Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society.
 
Dorothy Austin Ewald passed away on Dec. 2, 2009, in Lansing.
     Dorothy was born July 14, 1914, in Lawrence. She was the daughter of Sherman and Lula Austin. She was the second of five children. After graduating from High School in Lawrence, Dorothy worked as a switchboard operator for the Lawrence Telephone Company. On Nov. 30, 1940, she was united in marriage to Clare Ewald. For 47 years they owned and operated Springdale Fruit Farm in Hartford.
     Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, Clare, in 1987. She was also preceded in death by her mother, Lula Austin; her father, Sherman Austin; two brothers, Volney and Harlow; and a sister, Clara Labadie.
     Dorothy is survived by one sister, Norma Whiteman, and her two sons: Edward, who resides in Rock Hill, S.C., with his wife, Susan; and Douglas, who resides in Holt, Mich., with his wife, Sharon. Dorothy had five grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
     Dorothy worked hard on the farm as well as volunteering as a Cub Scout leader, past president of the Child Care Club, past president of the Southwest Hartford Thursday Club, a member of the Order of Eastern Star Benevolence Chapter 256 and a member of the Lawrence Alumni Association.
     In 1988, Dorothy moved to Paw Paw, where she was a resident for 17 years. In 2005 Dorothy moved to the Lansing area and resided there until her passing.
     The family will welcome friends from 11 a.m. until noon on Monday, Dec. 7, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where the service to honor her memory will commence at noon. Dorothy will be laid to rest next to her husband in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Lansing or a charity of your choice.
 
Dr. George Walter Ticknor, beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away on Dec. 2, 2009, at the age of 92.
     Memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. today, Dec. 5, 2009, at Starks & Menchinger Family Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Road. Friends may call from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. today at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Leader Dogs for the Blind. Those wishing to share a memory online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
     George was born Feb. 22, 1917, in Racine, Wis., to Harry and Anna (Criplean) Ticknor, longtime St. Joseph residents. George was a 1935 graduate of St. Joseph High School, playing football, basketball and tennis and named “the most likeable personality.”
     George served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. George maintained an active optometric practice with his brother Robert in downtown St. Joe and Hartford for more than 50 years.
     George enjoyed a long and happy retirement of golf, world travel and cheering for the Cubs, always surrounded by his loving family. He was content with his life well lived. He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Dorothy; three children: Tom, Sally, and Jim; son-in-law, Richard Rendell, and nine grandchildren: Benjamin, AnnaMalia, Evan, Andrew, Ethan, Alexander, Abbe, Jeff and Jamie; and his little dog, Katie III.
     We will miss his kind, loving and gentle being immeasurably.
 
George (Ron) Hogue George’s life began on March 31, 1948 in Paw Paw, MI, the son of George and Fay (Dobson) Hogue.
     He was a [1966] graduate of Hartford High School. George served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He was awarded two bronze stars and a purple heart for his service. On August 3, 1991, George was united to the former Cindy Evans in Saint Joseph, MI. He had been employed as a machinist for Contech in Dowagiac. George attended his A.A. meetings at the Sister Lakes Community Church. He was a handy wood worker and enjoyed riding his bicycle. His loving family includes his wife Cindy Hogue of Dowagiac, his mother Fay Hogue of Dowagiac, his children Dawn (Michael) Marquardt of Saint Joseph, Christina (Keri) Bryan of Portage, Stacia (Bryan Huggins) Evans of Sister Lakes, grandchildren Philip, Katie, Nathan, Dante, Clarice, Katerina, Blaine and Sydney, sisters Margaret (Danny) Smith of Three Rivers, Bonita “Bonnie” (Marty) Bell of Coloma, brothers Norman (Darlene) Hogue of Niles, and Paul Hogue of Sarasota, FL, several nieces and nephews.
     George passed away on Friday November 27, 2009 at his home. He is preceded in death by his father George Hogue.
     George’s family will gather with friends on Tuesday from 5-8 p.m. at Yazel & Clark Chapel (405 Center St. Dowagiac) where his funeral service will be held on Wednesday at 11 a.m. He will be laid to rest in Keeler Cemetery following services. Memorial contributions in his name may be directed to the D A V. 
     Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of George at www.yazel-clark.com.
 
James David Stanley, 63, of Hartford passed away suddenly Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009, at his home.
     James was born May 14, 1946, in Norristown, Pa., the son of Walton and Mabel (Irvian) Stanley, both of whom precede him in passing. Also predeceasing him are a sister, Barbara A. Slobbe; and a great-grandson, Ernesto Gonzalez III.
     James was a veteran of the United States Marines. He was a truck driver for Robinson Trucking, as well as for other companies as a freelance driver. He was a member of VFW Buck Crosby Post 6 of Kalamazoo. He loved spending time outdoors, especially fishing. James was a huge fan of Oprah, and when her show was on the television you had better be quiet.
     James is survived by a daughter, Mia (Ernesto) Gonzalez of Kalamazoo; three grandsons - Ernesto Gonzalez of Gobles and Andres and Antonio Gonzalez of Kalamazoo; and three great-grandchildren - Antonio Jr., Cyrus and Alana. He is also survived by a brother, Walton (Elda) Stanley of Gilbertsville, Pa.; a brother-in-law, James Slobbe of Spencer Port, N.Y.; his care-giver, Anna (Leon) Hudson of Hartford; an ex-wife, Jenelle Stanley of Gobles; and his faithful companion, Tiger, his cat.
     The family will welcome friends from 11 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 2, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where a service to honor his memory will commence at 11:30, with the Rev. Dr. David Kleis officiating. At 1:30 p.m. James will be laid to rest in Fort Custer National Cemetery, Augusta, with full military rites. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Veteran's Administration in Battle Creek.
 
Lester Mundt, Watervliet.  Lester died Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2009, at Community Hospital in Watervliet.
     Lester's life began May 12, 1922, in Keeler, Mich. He was a lifetime area resident, who for many years managed Beverly Lumber Company, and he worked for ABC Lumber and Judd Lumber. On Oct. 20, Lester retired from Kellogg Hardware in Hartford, where he worked for 20 years. Lester proudly served his country in the United States Army in Okinawa, Latay, during World War II, where he earned a Purple Heart. He was an active member of the Watervliet Free Methodist Church and Watervliet VFW.
     Lester will be remembered for his sense of humor, always having a smile, how he never met a stranger, and his willingness to help whenever, whomever, wherever needed. Lester never lost his zest for life and thought golf was the greatest sport ever. He was patient, accepted people as the were, was forgiving, a great listener, honest, never held a grudge, and was a man of great integrity.
     Lester's greatest enjoyment came from spending time with his loving family which includes: his wife, Adell (Frazier) Mundt; four children - Sharon Martorano, Thomas (Elizabeth) Mundt, Barbara (Johnnie) White, and Lori (Jerry) Davis; 14 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; two siblings, Howard (Marilyn) Mundt and Mary (Charles) Jarvis; and many nieces and nephews.
     He is preceded in death by a son, Edwin; his parents, Otto and Mable (Johnson) Mundt; a granddaughter, Azure Hamilton; a sister, Agnes Renner; and a brother, Eugene Mundt.
     Friends may visit with Lester's family from 5 to 9 p.m. Monday, Nov. 30, at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet. Funeral Services celebrating Lester's life will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1, at Watervliet Free Methodist Church in Watervliet, with Pastor Brian E. Hall officiating. Burial will follow in Fairview Memorial Cemetery in Watervliet. Memorials may be made in Lester's memory to Berrien County Cancer Services, Watervliet Free Methodist Church, or North Berrien Senior Center.
 

David Short, 20, from Hartford Michigan. 
   
 David’s life began Sept.12, 1989, in St. Joseph. He spent his childhood growing up in Hartford, graduating in 2008 from Hartford High School, where he loved to play football. After graduation, David joined the United States Army, where he proudly served his country. David loved spending time with his family, which includes: his wife, Carolina Vidal (Caggiano) Short, whom he married Feb. 13, 2009; his mom, Julie Strunk of Berrien Center; his stepfather, Bruce Leroy Strunk Jr. of Battle Creek; a brother, Bruce Leroy Strunk III of Berrien Center; a sister, Ashleigh Renae Strunk of Berrien Center; grandfather, Jimmie (Marlene) Short of Berrien Springs; and a grandmother, Joan Buss of Benton Harbor.
     David died Monday, Nov. 23, in Clarksville, Tenn. He was preceded in death by a grandmother, Kay Gordon. David will be remembered for bringing laughter to any situation and for being a very giving person.
     Friends may visit with David’s family from 5 to 9 p.m. today, Dec. 3, at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet. Funeral services celebrating David’s life will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, at His Place Cathedral of Faith, 69556 CR 378 in Covert. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery in Hartford, with full military rites.  Memorials may be made in David’s memory to the Hartford High School Athletic Department.

One dies, two injured in accident
[Clarksville TN]

     A Fort Campbell Soldier died Monday [November 23, 2009] at 5:26 a.m., as a result of a traffic accident outside Gate 2 on Highway 41A that also injured two others.
     Specialist David Short, 20, of Hartford, Mich., was an information systems operator - analyst assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 506th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team. He joined the Army in April 2008 and arrived at Fort Campbell in January 2009.
     A Mitsubishi Lancer driven by Carolina Short, 19, traveling northbound on Highway 41A was making a left into Fort Campbell’s Gate 2 when a Jeep Laredo driven by Valerie Terry, 51, traveling southbound collided with the passenger side of the Mitsubishi.
     Caroline and Terry were transported by ambulance to the hospital with minor injuries. The passenger in the Jeep, Charles Seus, 18, was uninjured.
     Short’s awards and decorations include: National Defense Service Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Army Service Ribbon; and Weapons Qualification: M4 (expert). He is survived by his wife, Caroline, of Clarksville; and his mother and stepfather, Julie and Bruce Strunk of Hartford, Mich.
     The accident is under investigation and no citations have been issued at this time.

Published in the Fort Campbell Courier on Tuesday, November 24, 2009

NOTE:  Dave was a 2008 Hartford High School graduate.  He served as the 2007 Mr. Hartford - Blossomtime representative and was also named as Mr. Nice Guy for the contest.
 

Frankie Oldham, 94, of Hartford passed away Saturday, Nov. 21, 2009, at Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community in South Haven.
     Frankie was born April 3, 1915, in Kennett, Mo., the daughter of Frank and Anna (Mead) Sifford, both of whom preceded her in passing. Frankie was also preceded by her first husband, Dee Jones; her second husband, Rolla “Buck” Oldham; and a son, Charles Oldham.
     Frankie was formerly employed at a shirt factory and Grabers Dry Goods Store in Kennett, Mo., until she decided to relocate to Michigan. Frankie enjoyed sewing, making quilts and dish rags, and crocheting. Her children could not have asked to be blessed with a more wonderful mother.
     Frankie is survived by her children – Merle Jones-Main of Hartford, Wayne Thomas Jones of Tucson, Ariz., Gail (Mary Ann) Oldham of Kingsville, Texas, and Jerris (Jeffrey) Oldham-Specht of Mesa, Ariz.; a daughter-in-law, Marianne Oldham of Hartford; 14 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.
     The family will welcome friends from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday, Nov. 23, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. Frankie will then be taken to Kennett, Mo., where Mc-Daniel Funeral Service will conduct a graveside service to lay her to rest on Wednesday, Nov. 25, at 11 a.m., in Oak Ridge Cemetery, in Kennett.
     In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Frankie’s name may be made to Macular Degeneration Research or Hospice at Home.
Juanita Mae Wright, 69, of Watervliet died Thursday, Nov. 19, 2009, at home.
     She was born Nov. 9, 1940, in Hayti Town, Mo., to Bernath and Lois (Ivey) Clemons. Juanita married Harlan Wright on May 24, 1974, in Berrien County. Juanita worked as a packer for Deans Foods for nine years in Hartford. She also worked at KO Products, Mercy Hospital and Twin City Plants in Benton Harbor. Juanita attended the Watervliet Missionary Baptist Church. Juanita volunteered for the Area Agency on Aging and enjoyed watching TV. She is preceded in death, along with her parents, by her husband, Harlan Wright, who died in 2000; an infant daughter, Rebecca Wright; and one brother, Bernath Clemons.
     She is survived by her children – Deborah (Sonny) Barringer of Watervliet, Paul Stout and Eddie Stout, both of Benton Harbor, and Timothy (Vernel) Wright of Hagar Shores; five grandchildren – Rebecca Wright, Amber Wright, Jason (Hope) Peterson, Kristy Payne and Wendy Payne; 11 great grandchildren – Kassie Payne, Jordan Griggs, Nathan Clouse, Trinity Duncun, Adriana Peterson, Devon Bradford, Steven Bradford, Gabriel Bradford, Tiffany Bodfish, Katlyn Bodfish and Ashley Bodfish; one brother, Leonard Clemons of Riverside; two sisters – Peggy Dickson of San Antonio, Texas, and Lois Marks of Stevensville; one niece, Janice Clemons; and one nephew, Jeff Clemons.
     Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 24, at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home, with Pastor Randy Kaiser officiating. Burial will take place in Crystal Springs Cemetery in Benton Harbor. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guest book at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.
     The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home of South Haven.

Cletus “Butch” E. Beckman, 83, of Hartford passed away Wednesday evening, Nov. 18, 2009, at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo.
     Funeral services celebrating his life will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 23, at the Davidson Chapel of Florin Funeral Service, 249 E. Center St., Coloma, with Pastor Shannon Truelove officiating. Burial will follow in Hartford Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday afternoon at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.
     Butch was born on Jan. 10, 1926, in Clinton, Iowa. He was one of four brothers born to Louis and Mary Ann Beckman. He married Patricia Ann Munjoy and together they had five children. He worked for 29 years at Menasha Corporation prior to his retirement. An avid sports fan, Butch enjoyed sports of all kinds and particularly enjoyed attending sporting events for his grandchildren. He also enjoyed hunting, bowling and going to the casino when he could. He was a friend to everyone and would do anything for anybody. Most of all, Butch will be remembered as a “family man” who cherished time spent with his family.
     Butch is survived by his children – Cheri (Don) Collins and Phillip Beckman, both of Hartford, Janice Schaub of Eau Claire, Cindy (Tom) Murdock of Colorado Springs, Colo., Rick Beckman of Hartford and Bill Collins of Coloma; stepson, Lester Arant of Hartford; 18 grandchildren; 16 greatgrandchildren; one greatgreat-grandchild; brother, Jim (Marge) Beckman of Clearwater, Fla.; and by his longtime, loving companion, Jean Arant.
     In addition to his parents, Butch was preceded by his wife, Patricia Ann, in 1966; grandchildren, Tonya Collins and Ray Watkins; greatgrandson, Joseph Alsup; son-in-law, Jack Schaub; stepdaughters, Norma Watkins and Lois Robinson; and by his brothers, Vernon and Ralph Beckman.

 

John (Jack) Becktold, 80, of Dundee, Fla., formerly of Hartford, passed to his heavenly home on Monday, Nov. 16, 2009, at his son’s home in Mattawan.
     Jack is survived by his wife, Mary Lou, of 57 years; two sons, Bryon of Mattawan and Blain (Becky) of Spring Lake, granddaughters Sarah (Peter) Remenar and Julie (Kyle) Lackscheide, and three great-grandchildren, Dominic, Grace and Keagan.
     Jack was born July 24, 1929, in Detroit, the son of Peter and Henryetta (Cadow) Becktold. Jack served his country proudly in the U.S. Marines, serving in both World War II and the Korean War. He was the f
ormer proprietor of the A&W restaurant in Hartford, and ultimately retired from DeGroot’s of Coloma. Not ones to just sit around and do nothing, John and Mary Lou both worked at Universal Studios in their retirement.
     As to John’s wishes, cremation has taken place. His earthy remains will be placed at Fort Custer National Cemetery, Augusta, on Friday, Nov. 20, 2009, with military rites conducted at 1:30 p.m. Pastor Marla Thurman of New Harvest Life Ministries, Hartford, will serve as officiant. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangements.
 


Frank L. Dewey - Lakeside  CA.
  The Lord called home Frank L. Dewey, 84 on November 15, 2009.  Father of five and grandpa of seven children. Services at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery on Monday, November 30th, at 10:00 a.m.
     [Frank
worked 32 years for General Dynamics-Convair Aircraft Division, San Diego.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold W. Dewey & Lola Lawer and is wife, Shirley (Howe) Dewey.  Surviving are his sister, Elaine Bleich; a brother, Harold  C. Dewey, and his children Pamela, Karen, David, Darrell and LuAnne.]

NOTE:  Frank was a 1944 Hartford High School graduate.  He served in the US Army during the Korea War.

 

Barbara Jannett Dunnigan, 71 of Hartford, passed away Sunday, Nov. 15, 2009, at her home.
     Barbara was born May 31, 1938, in Blytheville, Ark., the daughter of Otto and Carrie (Trayweek) Duda, both of whom preceded her in passing.  Also preceding her in passing were a husband, Melvin Whittker Sr., and a brother, Donnie Trayweek.
     Barbara was a security guard for various businesses in Flagstaff, Ariz. She loved being in the outdoors tending to her garden, and most importantly, she enjoyed the times she spent with her family, especially with her children and grandchildren.
     Barbara is survived by five children: Melvin (Theresa) Whittker of Hartford, Carl (Debra) Whittker of Lawton, Harold (Fran) Whittker of Hartford, Donna (Bobby) Cantrell of Bangor and Lonna Whittker of Grand Haven. She is also survived by 15 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and two brothers: Jerry (Peggy) Duda of Sister Lakes and Warren Duda Jr. of Caruthersville, Mo.
     The family will greet friends from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18 ,at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, and a graveside service to honor her memory will commence at 12 p.m. at Fairview Memorial Cemetery, Watervliet. Pastor Windle Davis will serve as officiant.
     Memorial donations may be made to Hospice at Home or to the family.

 
Tonya Collins passed away suddenly Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2009, at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo. Age 35 years.
     She was born Feb. 16, 1974, in Benton Harbor, the daughter of William and Cheri Collins. She worked at the Chicken Coop in Watervliet.
     She was a loving wife to Steve Cordell and a caring mother of two sons, Allan and Andrew Collins, and one daughter, Alyssa Collins, all of Hartford. She is also survived by her mother, Cheri Collins of Hartford and her father, William Collins of Benton Harbor; her grandfather, Cletus (Jean) Beckman of Hartford; one brother, Billy Collins of Coloma; her mother- in-law, Ruth Cordell of Benton Harbor; two nephews, Shawn and Brendan, both of Coloma; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.
     She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Patricia Beckman; and her uncle, Jack Schaub.
     Funeral service will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 14, at Calvin Funeral Home, 8 E. Main St., Hartford. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until time of service on Saturday. The Rev. Shannon Truelove will officiate with burial in Millburg Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bill Collins for the benefit of Tonya’s children.

Hartford Woman Killed In  Crash
The Herald Palladium
November 13, 2009

     A head-on crash in Watervliet Township on Wednesday left one woman dead and four people injured, Berrien County Sheriff’s Lt. Don Goulooze reported.  Tonya Collins, 35, of Hartford, died from injuries suffered in the accident, which happened around 2:27 p.m. on Red Arrow Highway near John Goff Road.
     According to the initial investigation by the Sheriff’s Department accident reconstruction unit, Jeremy Birmele, 31, of Hartford, was driving his 2008 Chrysler van east on Red Arrow Highway and was apparently unable to stop as he approached a line of cars stopped because of road construction.  Birmele drove to the left to avoid the stopped traffic, entered into the westbound lane and struck a car head on, police reported.
     The westbound 1998 Pontiac Grand Am was driven by Stephen Cordell, 37, of Hartford. Also in the car were his wife, Tonya Collins, Tonya’s son Allen Collins, 17, of Hartford, and Bart Alsup, 44, of Watervliet.
     Birmele and all four people in Cordell’s car were injured.
     The five victims were taken to Community Hospital in Watervliet. Tonya Collins was airlifted to Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo, where she died. 
     Condition reports on the others were not available Thursday from Community Hospital.

 

Gordon W. Cartwright - Gordon’s life began Nov. 5, 1927, in Arkansas. At the tender age of 8 his family relocated to Michigan. Gordon proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. On Nov. 29, 1949, Gordon married Susan Ann Howley in St. Joseph. He worked for many years at Midwest Timers. He was a member of American Legion Post 93 in Hartford, and in his spare time Gordon enjoyed playing music, camping and spending time with his family.
     Gordon’s loving family includes two sons, Bill Cartwright and Chuck (Lynn) Cartwright, both of Hartford; 12 grandchildren; 13 greatgrandchildren; a sister, Othrine (Billie) Horton of Benton Harbor; a daughter-in-law, Linda Cartwright; two sisters-in-law, Ruby Cartwright and Pat Cartwright; many nieces and nephews; and his dog, PeeWee.
     Gordon died Monday, Nov. 9, 2009, at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo. He was preceded in death by his wife, Susan Cartwright; two sons, Lewie and Terry Cartwright; two brothers James and Bob Cartwright; and a sister, Clorine Halsel.
     Friends may visit with Gordon’s family from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday Nov. 11 at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet, where his life will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, with Pastor Wade Blankenship. Burial will follow in Fairview Memorial Cemetery, Watervliet. Memorials may be made in Gordon’s memory to South Haven Area Hospice.

 

Elizabeth 'Betty' Josephine Blacker - LAWRENCE - Betty went to be with Jesus on Nov. 8, 2009, at her home with family and friends by her bedside.
     Betty was born on July 27, 1962, in Paw Paw to William and Madonna (Meissen) Burmester. She attended St. Mary’s Catholic School and graduated from Paw Paw High School Class of 1980. Betty attended the Van Buren Technology Center, or Skill Center as it was known then, participating in the Office Management Program. Out of high school,
Betty worked for Dr. Ravi, of Hartford, as a receptionist
and later was employed by R.E. Schell Enterprises, working as an attendant at the Stadium Discount Coin Laundry in Kalamazoo. While working here Betty met her husband, Jimmie D. Blacker Jr., and they were united in marriage on May 6, 1989, at the Paw Paw United Methodist Church.
     She is survived by her husband, Jimmie Dale Blacker Jr., and daughters Brittany Elizabeth and Alison Janette, all of Lawrence; brother, William Patrick “Pat” (Cathy) Burmester II of Paw Paw; three sisters, Mary (Patrick) Barnhart of Kalamazoo, Barbara Burmester of Paw Paw and Donna (Ricky) McCartney of Gobles; aunt, Kate Jacobsen; several nieces nephews and cousins.
     She was preceded in death by her parents, William Patrick and Madonna Mary Burmester.
     Betty was a Girl Scout when she was younger, and worked as a Girl Scout leader in Lawrence. She was a member of the Lawrence Township Fire Flames, an organization that supports the local fire department and quick response team.
     Family will receive friends at 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 12, until 1 p.m. Adams Funeral Home in Paw Paw, where funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. with the Rev. Gene Moore of the Bloomingdale United Methodist Church officiating. Interment will be at Hill Cemetery in Lawrence immediately following the service. Memorials contributions may be made to the Blacker Family, the Van Buren ISO’s Student Scholarship Program, Heartland Hospice, The Lawrence Township Emergency Services, The Bloomingdale United Methodist Church, The Crohns and Colitis Foundation, and the Girl Scouts of Lawrence. Share a memory or condolence online at: www.timeformemory.com/adams.
 
Mary Wesaw passed away Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2009, at Community Hospital in Watervliet.
     Mary was born Aug. 11, 1929, in Maryland. She was married to Thomas Wesaw Jr. on June 14, 1947, in Lawrence. He survives her.
     She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, where she served as a Eucharistic Minister. Her faith and her church provided her with much strength and comfort through the years. She worked for the Heath Co., retiring in 1990 after more than 20 years of service. She was a life member of the VFW 1137 Ladies Auxiliary in Benton Harbor. She was a member of the American Legion Post 362 in Coloma for more than 50 years. She enjoyed bowling and camping.
     Surviving besides her husband are one sister, Helen Bush of Cassopolis; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her father, Charles Kindle; her mother and stepfather, Margaret and Floyd Leach; and her sister, Louise Tickle.
     The family will receive friends from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where a prayer service will be held at 6 p.m., followed by a rosary service. Funeral service will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Fr. Robert E. Flickinger will officiate. Burial will take place in Maple Hill Cemetery.
     Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider Smile Train or the American Cancer Society.

 
Martha C. Saetre, 82, of Hartford passed away on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2009, at Bronson Nursing and Rehabilitation in Lawton.
    Martha Van Liere was born June 8, 1927, in Kalamazoo.  She married George Saetre Feb. 22, 1946, in Hartford. She worked at the Tri County Telephone Co. for several years. She then worked as a waitress and hostess for Galati’s Restaurant.
     Surviving besides her husband of 62 years are her son, Andrew (Karen) Saetre, Benton Harbor; one granddaughter, Allison Saetre, Rockford, Mich.; and twin great-grandsons, Jake and Corbin, Rockford. Also surviving are two sisters, Nellie Pozivilko and Josephine Perry, both of Hartford; and several nieces and nephews.
     She was predeceased by her parents and her brother, Peter Van Liere.
     The family will greet friends from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service to honor her memory will take place at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 5, at the funeral home. The Rev. Tim Nyhuis will officiate. Entombment will follow in Mount Ever-Rest Mausoleum in Kalamazoo. Memorials may be made in Martha’s name to the Shriners Hospital for Crippled Children or the American Heart Association.

NOTE:  Martha attended Hartford Public Schools and was with the Class of 1946.
 
Frederick Robert Schmalfeldt, South Bend IN, formerly of Hartford.  Frederick's life began February 2, 1956 in St. Joseph, MI.
     He spent his childhood growing up in the Hartford-Lawrence area, graduating from Lawrence High School. He was a self-employed contractor who in his spare time enjoyed hunting, fishing, drawing, and gardening. Frederick was a good and caring friend who will be greatly missed.
     Family was very important to Frederick and his includes five children Nichoel Schmalfeldt of Kalamazoo, Shannon (Sgt. Daniel) Love of Alabama, Frederick P. Schmalfeldt of South Bend, Justin Schmalfeldt of Sister Lakes, and Joey Schmalfeldt of Sister Lakes; two grandchildren Mai Lillian Love and Esme` Love; six siblings Ida Jones, William Schmalfeldt, Ivan Schmalfeldt, Marvin Schmalfeldt, Ronald Schmalfeldt, and Edmond Schmalfeldt; and many nieces and nephews.
      Frederick died Tuesday, October 27, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in South Bend, IN. His parents William and Ida (Burns) Schmalfeldt and a sister June Andrews precede him in death.
     Friends may visit with Frederick's family Tuesday, November 3 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM and Wednesday, November 4, from 2:00 to 4:00 at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet, cremation will follow visitation. Following visitation on Wednesday, Frederick's family is having a gathering at the D.A.N.K in Benton Harbor. Memorials may be made to Frederick's family c/o Nichoel Schmalfeldt.
 
Henry John Mueller, 96, formerly of Hartford MI, passed away on Monday, Oct. 26, 2009 in Mount Dora, Fla.
     He was retired from Clearing Machine Corp. of Chicago. Born in New York City, N.Y., on Jan. 10, 1913, he moved to Mount Dora, Fla., in 1977 from Chicago, Ill. He was a Protestant. He was a past grand master of The Masons. He was a WWII Air Force veteran who loved to travel around the world and to read.
     Survivors include his daughter, Leatha L. Moeller (Ron) of Eustis, Fla.; sons, Raymond H. Mueller of St. Joseph, Mich., and Russell P. Mueller of Chicago, Ill.; grandson, Raymond P. Moeller (Vesta) of The Colony, Texas; granddaughters, Lynda E. Cavaliere (Edward) of Eustis, Fla., and Christine A. Dunn of Greensboro, N.C.; great-granddaughter, Kelly Cavaliere, great-grandsons, Nathan Dunn and Clayton Dunn.
     Memorial donations in his honor to: National Kidney Foundation of Florida, Inc., 1040 Woodcock Road, Suite 119, Orlando, Florida 32803. All Faiths Cremation Society, The Villages, Fla.
 
Mike Rawson, 70, of Phoenix, Ariz., formerly of Sister Lakes, Mich., passed away on Oct. 23, 2009, from liver cancer.
     Mike was born on March 28, 1939, in Homewood, Ill. He married his high school sweetheart, Neeltje VanEs, in June of 1957. Mike and Nell raised five children in Illinois before moving to Michigan.
     For many years Mike and Nell owned and operated Keeler Keg and Kitchen in Keeler, Mich., before retiring to Arizona in 1997. Throughout his life he worked in the banking business and especially enjoyed the mortgage loan department.
     Mike enjoyed being with people and brought joy and energy with him wherever he went.
     He is survived by his wife, Neeltje; five children — Sherrie Mason (John), Terrie DeMar (Mark), David Rawson (Cathy), Debbie Ziemke (Tom), and Thomas Rawson; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
     A memorial service will be held on Nov. 6 at Mountain View Lutheran Church in Phoenix, Ariz. Memorials may be made to North Berrien Senior Center in Coloma, or Silver Creek United Methodist Church in Dowagiac.
Margaret McDonald - Hartford.  Margaret's life began Aug. 5, 1947. She passed away Oct. 23, 2009, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph.
     Cremation has taken place and the family will have a memorial service to honor her memory at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 3, at Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Pastor Timothy Nyhuis of the Hartford Federated Church will officiate. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangements.
     Margaret was born Aug. 5, 1947, in Russell, Ark., the daughter of Charles and Bonnie (Jones) Rains.
     Margaret loved to play bingo, go to garage sales and go to cookouts so she could be around her family. She was a very special grandmother and great-grandmother. She loved all of her grandchildren and great-grandchild, including the one on the way, and was loved by all of them back. She formerly was employed at Collins and Ackmans until their closure.
     Margaret is survived by her children: Tracy (Jim) Johnson of Hartford and Stanley (Amy) McGrew of North Charleston, S.C.; eight grandchildren: Kevin (Courtney Prince) McGrew, Erica Johnson, Sarah (Jeremy) McGrew, Emily McGrew, Becky DeLoach, Tucker McGrew, Molly McGrew and Payton McGrew; one great-grandchild: Ethin McGrew, and a second on the way. Margaret was also survived by four brothers, four sisters, numerous nieces and nephews, and two special friends, Kenny Wilson and Carol Applegate.
     Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, one brother and one sister.
 
Janet Louise (Spangler) Morris, 62, of Bangor passed away Saturday, Oct. 24, 2009, at her home.
     Janet was born Nov. 30, 1946, in De Soto, Mo., the daughter of Walter and Reva (Nash) Spangler, both of whom preceded her in passing. Janet was also preceded by two sisters, Joyce Spangler and Donna Beaman, and three brothers, Frankie Spangler, Charles Spangler Sr. and Barry Spangler.
     Janet was formerly employed with Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation in South Haven. She loved playing bingo, card games and traveling to various casinos. Her most precious time was spent with her family, especially the grandchildren.
     Janet is survived by three sons, Thomas Spangler and Richard (Mickie) Andrews, both of Hartford, and Timothy Andrews of Bangor, and a daughter, Alice Cantrell of Bangor. She is also survived by 14 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; three brothers, Ronald Spangler of Lawrence, Gerald (Wanda) Spangler of Georgia and Rick Spangler of Hartford; two sisters, Judy (Larry) Thompson of Otsego and Nina (Mark) Posthuma of Allegan; and a significant other, Jimmy Chambers.
     The family will welcome friends from 5 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 28, at the Hartford Church of God, where the service to honor her memory will commence at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 29. Pastor Eric Jackson will serve as officiant. Burial will be in Hill Cemetery, Lawrence. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the family. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangements.

NOTE:  Janet attended Hartford High School until 9th grade and would have graduated with the Class of 1965.

 
Christopher Lee Thompson, 35, of Samburg, Tenn., formerly of Hartford MI, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2009.
     Chris was born Oct. 16. 1974, in Berrien Springs. He was the son of Rita Walford of Samburg and the late Donnie Watson. His adoptive parents were Clyde and Judy Thompson of Watervliet.
     He is survived by a sister, Crystal Walford of Union City, Tenn.; three brothers and two sisters-in-law, Phil (Brenda) Thompson of Falmouth, Mich., Donnie (Jennifer) Thompson of Paw Paw and Adam Thompson of Kalamazoo; six nephews and five nieces.
     Memorial services will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at Calvary Pentecostal Church, 13 S. Haver, Hartford with Pastor Clyde Thompson officiating.


NOTE:  Christopher previously attended Hartford public schools.
Lawrence Lee Winans, 68, of Hartford passed away Friday, Oct. 9, 2009, at his home.
       Larry, as he was known by all closest to him, was born Nov. 22, 1940, in Watervliet, the son of Fred and Loretta (Parshall) Winans, both of whom preceded him in passing. Larry was also preceded in passing by a sister, Karen Winans.

       Larry served his country proudly in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. He was a truck driver by trade and was formerly employed at Auto Specialties for many years. After that plant closed, he went to work and retired from U.S.F. Trucking of Holland. Larry enjoyed watching any football games and boxing matches. His love for tractors and lawnmowers, especially John Deere, shows in the many ones he collected. Larry was a real people person who had nicknames for all of his friends. He liked to talk to everyone around him even if he didn’t know them at all.
       Larry married the former Gloria Helmer on June 3, 1961. She survives, along with two sons – Karl Winans of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and Kris (Elizabeth) Winans of South Haven; four grandsons – Joshua (Jessica) Winans of Watervliet, Trevor Winans, David Winans and Nathaniel Winans, all of South Haven; and a great-granddaughter, Jienne-Marie Winans of Watervliet. He is also survived by four brothers – Fred (Barbara) Winans of Alabama, Gene Winans of Watervliet, Don (Mattie) Winans of Alabama, and Duane (Peggy) Winans of Hartford ; two sisters, Phyllis Kling and Darlene (Don) Horton, both of Hartford ; and several nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.
       The family will welcome friends from 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 12, at Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford . The service to honor his memory will commence at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13, at the funeral home. Pastor Christopher Winans will serve as officiant. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford , with military rites conducted by VFW Post 1137, VFW Post 6803, American Legion Post 362 and auxiliary. The family requests memorial donations be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
 
Barbara Truhn, 93, of Coloma died Friday, Oct. 9, 2009, at Lakeland Continuing Care Center in St Joseph.
    Cremation has taken place. A memorial service celebrating Barbara’s life will be held at 3 p.m. Monday, Oct. 12, at the First Congregational Church in Coloma . Memorial donations in memory of Barbara may be made to the Coloma Band Boosters or to the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation. Those wishing to sign the online guestbook or leave a message of comfort for the family may do so at www.duffieldpastrick.com.
    Barbara was born March 17, 1916, in Bangor to Earl and Margaret (Stickney) Lee. She is a life member of Order of Eastern Star 307 in Coloma and a member of an entertainment group known as The Hulakats in Ruskin, Fla. Over the years she had been employed by Deer Forest and at Washington Elementary as a lunch lady.
    Being the active person she was, she enjoyed traveling, was an avid birdwatcher and Michigan State fan, and was an extreme knitter, but most of all loved spending time with her grandkids.
     Survivors include four daughters – Gwen Greer of Hardy Ark., Nancy (Wayne Hazen) Truhn of Monterey, Tenn., Sue (Gary) Griffin of Coloma , and Roxanne (Jeff) Witcher of Kennett Square, Pa.; one sister, Rhoda Ottolini of Nashville, Ill.; 12 grandchildren; and 13 greatgrandchildren.
     Barbara was preceded in death by one brother; three sisters; and her husband, Donald, in 1997, whom she married April 15, 1943.

NOTE:  Barbara was a 1934 Hartford High School graduate.  Sisters Sarah Lee, Louise Engle, Ann McGriff, and brother Roger Lee preceded Barbara in death.
 

Laura Lee Riegel Heuser, age 81, of Lawrence, died on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2009, in Kalamazoo.
      Laura was born in Springfield, Ill., on Nov. 22, 1927, to Helen and Orville Riegel. She graduated from Eaton Rapids High School in 1945. Laura graduated from Michigan State University, magna cum laude, in 1949 with a bachelor of science in horticulture. She married Wallace E. Heuser on July 16, 1950.
      Laura is survived by her husband of 60 years, Wallace E. Heuser; five children – Gary Heuser, Wanda Heuser Gale, Stephen Heuser, Jeffrey Heuser and Roy Heuser; nine grandchildren – Laura Lee Gale, Michael Heuser, Jack Gale, Rachel Heuser, Susan Gale Phillips, Barbara Gale Krohne, Helena Hallan Derhammer, Christopher Heuser and Thomas Heuser; and 10 great-grandchildren – Vincent Krohne, Hayle Krohne, Elizabethe Hallan, Jessica Hallan, Summer Phillips, Grace Gale, Taylor Philips, Macy Boyer, Joshua Gale and Daniel Gale.
      Laura was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Thomas Riegel.
      Laura was a founding member of Women for the Survival of Agricultural in Michigan and instrumental in the foundation of American AgriWomen. She became a motivational speaker, speaking to agricultural groups in all 50 states and several countries. She went on to become a nationally recognized motivational public speaker. She was chairperson of the Michigan Land Trust Board and helped establish the Kal-Haven Trail. She was also a member of the Agricultural Extension Advisory Committee, The Food Advisory Committee to the U.S. Congress, The Governors Conference on Agriculture and was awarded the Congressional Award by the U.S. Congress. She received The Distinguished Service Award from Michigan State University, and was awarded the Distinguished Service Award from The MSU Cooperative Extension, the Michigan Horticultural Society and the Van Buren County Farm Bureau. She received the Outstanding Alumnus Award from the School of Agriculture and Natural Resources at MSU. She was awarded the Distinguished Service to Agriculture from MSU. She was also an awarded member of the Beaumont Tower Society of MSU.
      Laura was intimately involved at the Hartford United Methodist and was a Sunday school chair and teacher for many years. She was a certified lay-speaker for the United Methodist Church and spoke at churches statewide.
      In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Hartford United Methodist Church, The Michigan State Horticultural Society Trust Fund or Michigan AgriWomen.
      Visitation will be held at Hartford United Methodist Church, 425 E. Main St., Hartford on Wednesday, Oct. 7, from 6 to 9 p.m. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, Oct. 8, at 4 p.m. at the Hartford United Methodist Church. Arrangements are being handled by Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford.
 
Edith June McLemore, 78, of Hartford passed away Sunday, Oct. 4, 2009, at her home.
     June, as she was known by all who knew her, was born Feb. 16, 1931, in Moulton, Ala., the daughter of John and Nellie (Smith) Lee, both of whom preceded her in passing.
     Also preceding June in passing were her husband, James “Roy” McLemore; a son, Michael McLemore; two sisters, Zara Gillespie and Vera Schnader; and three brothers – Ed Lee, John Lee Jr. and Avery Lee.
     June is survived by a son, Tim McLemore of Hartford; two daughters, Deb (Jim) Webb of Cadillac and Dodi McLemore of Elkhart, Ind. She is also survived by two grandsons, Jared and Logan Webb, both of Cadillac; and one sister, Bettye Layne of Foley, Ala.
     The family will welcome friends from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hart­ford. The service to honor her memory will take place at 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 8, at the funeral home. The Rev. Ronald Hansen of the Hartford United Methodist Church will officiate. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations in June’s name may be made to Hospice of Southwest Michigan.

 
Diana Maria Castillo, Diana Maria Castillo, 58, of Watervliet passed away suddenly Thursday, Oct. 1, 2009, at Community Hospital, Watervliet.
  Diana was born July 5, 1951, in Rio Grande, Texas, the daughter of Manuel and Oralia (Garza) Romero. She was employed by Sodus Head Start, where she was a loyal employee for 23 years. She was also known to give free income tax help to migrant families and was always the first one to chip in and help anyone who was in need.
  But most importantly, her family, and more importantly, her children, were her life. She loved dancing and was the life of any party.
  Diana is survived by her husband, Tomas; four children, James (Wendy) Fillmore of Grant, Mich., Robert Fillmore of South Haven, Marie (Ray) Trujillo of Covert and Juan (Carmela) Fillmore of Wilcox, Ariz. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren; her mother, Oralia Romero of Hartford; two sisters, Graciela (Alfonso) Chavez of Hartford and Leticia (Luis) Aranda of Lawrence; and five brothers, Juan (Sharon) Romero of Illinois, Gerardo (Luisa) Romero of Maryland, Aldo Romero and Lorenzo Romero, both of Hartford, and Rodolfo (Crystal) Romero of Coloma.
  Diana was preceded in passing by her father, Manuel Romero, on June 29, 2009; and her first husband, James V. Fillmore.
  The family will welcome friends from 8 to 10 p.m. today, Oct. 6, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Hartford. The Mass of Christian Burial to honor her memory will be celebrated at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7, at the church. Father Fabio Garzon and Father Robert Flickinger of St. Basil Catholic Church, South Haven, will serve as celebrants. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Diana’s name may be made to the Susan Komen Breast Cancer Foundation or to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. The family has entrusted Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangements.

 
Daniel Theodore Green, 46, of Hartford died Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2009, at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo.
  He was born Jan. 14, 1963, in Detroit to Theodore H. and Annette (Lovett) Green. Daniel married Penny Shell. He worked as a general laborer.
  He was preceded in death by his father, Theodore Green; and sister, Linda Harthun.
  He is survived by his wife, Penny Green of Hartford; four sons – Daniel Green of South Haven, Kody Green of Louisville, Ky., Jordan Green and Joseph Green, both of Hartford; two daughters – Sarah Wolschlager of Holland, Mich., and Kristen Ramirez of Hartford; his mother, Annette Green of Winterhaven, Fla.; two grandchildren; two sisters, Barbara Meeluskey and Loshie Potter, both of Zeeland, Mich.; and one brother, Scott Green of Winterhaven, Fla.
  Funeral services will take place at noon Saturday, Oct. 3, at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home, South Haven, with Pastor Anthony Kuenzli officiating. Family will receive friends from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the funeral home, prior to the service. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

 
Dorothy Lee McFarlin, 82, of Decatur passed away Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2009, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph.
      Dot, as she was known by all who knew her, was born April 2, 1927, in Manila, Ark., the daughter of Alfred and Luesettie (Walker) Thompson, both of whom preceded her in passing.
      Also preceding her in passing were her husband, Bob, in 1983; two brothers, Andy Wade Thompson and Jerry Thompson; a son-in-law, Douglas Melvin, in 1982; and a grandson, Steffen Melvin, in 2007.
      Dot was a long-time member of the Keeler General Baptist Church, where she was a Sunday School teacher for 23 years and sang in the church choir. She was an employee at Burnette Foods in Keeler, where she met her husband, Bob. A diehard Detroit Tigers fan, she also loved to travel the country.
      Dot is survived by two daughters, Brenda Melvin of Keeler and Karen (Harold) Johnson of Lawrence; four grandchildren, Karrie Melvin, Lorri (Jeff) Dawes, Brian (Savanah) Johnson and Robbie (Tiffany DeLoach) Johnson; six great-grandchildren; a sister, Evelyn Kimbrough of Coloma; and a brother, James (Jean) Thompson of Riverside.
     The family will welcome friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2, at the Keeler General Baptist Church. Funeral services to honor Dot’s memory will commence at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, at the church. Pastor Bill Martin will serve as officiant. Burial will follow the service in Keeler Cemetery. The family requests memorial donations be made to the American Heart Association or the Keeler General Baptist Church. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford , with handling the arrangements.

 
On Sept. 25, 2009, Seth Stanton Ruple, 75, of Hartford was taken to heaven. He passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side. Stan was born July 11, 1934, in Keeler.
       To all of his friends he was known as “Stan.” He was an avid NASCAR fan and his favorite driver for many years was the late Dale Earnhardt Sr. Stan loved his country music, was a truck driver all of his life and raised lots of children, whom he loved very much.
       As to Stan’s wishes cremation has taken place and there will be no services held. There will be a dinner at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct.10, at the Van Buren Sportsman’s Club, Hartford.

       Stan is survived by 13 children — Eddie (Brenda) Bearden Jr. of Georgia, Kathy (Jim) Boyer of Oklahoma, Robert (Kellie) Bearden of Georgia, Sharon (Mike) Ruple of Bangor, Brenda Mygrant of Georgia, Danny (Linda) Ruple of Benton Harbor, Mary (Jim) Smith of Watervliet, Deborah (Greg) Schrubba of Coloma, Cindy (Harry) Leppa of Bangor, Larry (Debbie) Raines Ruple of Coloma, Jimmy Ruple of Hartford, Julie (Tom) Ruple of St. Joseph and Greg Ruple of Hartford.
Stan is also survived by 32 grandchildren, 58 great-grandchildren, nineplus great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Maxine Burg of Hartford; and lots of nieces and nephews.
      Stan was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Ida Ruple; a brother, Max Ruple; three sisters, Marjorie, Marvil and Marilyn; his wives, Donna and Margaret; one granddaughter, Heather; and a very close special friend, Etta Moore.

NOTE:  Stan was with the Class of 1952 at Hartford High School.
Patricia M. Maske, age 81, of Venice, Florida, passed away on September 21, 2009. She was born on October 7, 1927 in Hartford, Michigan and was the daughter of the late, Cecil W. and Fanny K. Cupp.
      Patricia graduated Valedictorian from the Hartford High School Class of 1945. She married John T. Maske on April 23, 1949. After raising two sons and one husband to maturity, she went on to enroll in the Associates Degree program at the Johnson County Kansas Community College and subsequently graduated with honors in 1982. In her later years she traveled extensively, yet nurtured both parents through their final days with devotion, dedication and class. Patty loved literature, a good discussion, competing at the Bridge table and could shop until she dropped. She brought an elegance and inner grace to every occasion and interaction.
     She is survived by her husband, John of 60 years; sons, John T. Maske, Jr. of Lafayette, Colorado and Todd R. Maske of Billerica, Massachusetts.     
     Visitation will be Monday, September 28, 2009 from 5:00-7:00PM at the Farley Funeral Home in Venice and a funeral service will be held at the same location on Tuesday, September 29, 2009 at 11:00AM. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Salvation Army, P.O. Box 69, Venice, Florida 34284-0069. Farley Funeral Home in Venice is handling the arrangements.  Click here to view an on-line slideshow of Patty's life.
 
Dorothy Scherer, COLOMA — Dorothy’s life began Dec. 7, 1910, in Richland Center, Ind.
    She spent her childhood growing up in Indiana, graduating from Talma High School.  After high school, Dorothy dreamed of being a nurse. She went on to work helping doctors delivering babies. Dorothy also worked as a telephone operator, a laborer at Gifford’s, and an inspector at DuWel’s, both in Hartford. Dorothy and her first husband, Paul Fisher, moved to Michigan to start farming.
    Dorothy enjoyed visiting with family, especially her sister, Ruth, and grandson, Tom; and his wife, Sandra. She loved to laugh and play little “teasing” games with loved ones. She could find humor in everyday life.
    Dorothy’s loving family includes her grandson, Tomas Ackerman and his wife, Sandra; daughters, Jane Helwig, Rhonda Estes, Cookie Ott and Holly Davis; her sister, Ruth Fisher; and several nieces and nephews.
    Dorothy died Saturday, Sept.19, 2009, at Lakeland Continuing Care Center in St. Joseph. She was preceded in death by two husbands, Paul Fisher and Kenneth Scherer; a daughter, Patricia Ackerman; a grandson, Jon Scott Ackerman; her parents, Clarence and Anna Fern (Kline) Alderfer; and two brothers, Ray Alderfer and Robert Teeter.
    Friends may visit with Dorothy’s family from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 24, at Hutchins Funeral Home, Watervliet where funeral services will be celebrated following visitation at noon. Burial will follow in North Shore Memory Gardens, Hagar Shores. Memorials may be made to St. Paul’s United Church of Christ or Hospice.
 
Ruth Harmon, 93, of Watervliet went home to be with her Lord peacefully on Saturday, Sept.19, 2009, at Tri City Village.
  Ruth was born Nov. 26, 1915, the daughter of Harvey and Susan (Hannens) Langston, both of whom preceded her in passing.
  She was also preceded in passing by her husband, Ray Harmon, in 1987; her son and daughter-in-law, Gene and Juanita Prince; a granddaughter, Nina Zvonar; a greatgranddaughter, Jenny; and her loving siblings.
  Ruth is survived by five grandchildren – Larry (Debbie) Prince, Richard Prince, Judy (Darryl) Lynch, Roger (Laurie) Prince and Nancy (Bruce) Meyers; eight greatgrandchildren – Stacey, Shawn, Eric, Nichols, Brandy, Erica, Trish and Dana; and eight great-great-grandchildren.
  The family will welcome friends from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21, at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet, where the funeral service will follow at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Ruth’s memory may be made to Hospice at Home.

NOTE:  Ruth was a resident of Hartford for many years prior to moving to Watervliet.  She was a sister of Icey Adams, who passed away on September 8, 2009.
    

Paulette Agatha Johnson Koszola, 61, of Searcy, died Tuesday, September 15, 2009. She was born December 13, 1947 in Lepanto, Arkansas to the late Paul Hobart and Francis Clay Johnson. Along with her parents, Paulette was preceded in death by her son, Phillip Shelton.
     She is survived by her children, Kim (Joe) Justice, Roger Houart, Dean Shelton; two sisters, Shealia McNeace, Dee Dee Ziener; five brothers, Eddie Johnson, Tony Johnson, Michael Johnson, Paul Johnson, Gary Johnson; and six grandchildren.
      Memorial Services will be 2:00p.m. Saturday, September 26, 2009 at Whitney Lane Family Worship in Kensett.

NOTE:  Paulette was with the Class of 1966 of Hartford High School.
 

Evelyn Cleary, 67, of Hartford passed away Tuesday morning, Sept. 8, 2009, at her home.
      Funeral services celebrating her life will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, Sept. 11, at the Davidson Chapel of Florin Funeral Service, 249 E. Center Street, Coloma, with Pastor Mark Manning officiating. Burial will follow the service at the Millburg Cemetery in Benton Township. Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
      Evelyn was born April 21, 1942, in Dowagiac to Theodore and Evelyn Wirick. She married Larry Cleary in 1967, and together they celebrated more than 41 years of marriage. She enjoyed doing crafts and keeping her home. Evelyn will always be remembered as a loving, wife, mother, sister and grandmother.
      Evelyn is survived by her children, Larry (Fabiola) Cleary of Hartford, Terry Cleary of Kalamazoo and Sherrie Cleary of Florida; grandchildren, April, Cristal, Brandon, Noah, Luis, T.J., Christopher and Ryan; and by brothers, Warren, Bill, John and Butch Wirick; and by her sisters, Linda Crocker and Judy Morrison.
  In addition to her parents, Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband, Larry, in December 2008, and by her brothers, Sonny and Larry Wirick.
Icey M. Adams, 95, of Hartford passed away Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2009, at Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community, South Haven.
     Icey was born Nov. 23, 1913, in Hornersville, Ala., the daughter of Harvey and Susan (Hanners) Langston, both of whom preceded her in passing. Icey was also preceded in passing by her husband, George Adams, on April 20, 1996; a son, Wayne, in 1986; grandson, Robert Lowe, in 1997; and her loving siblings.
     Icey was a well-known member of the Hartford Community, where she was known by many as just “Granny.” She was a long time resident at Woodside Apartments in Hartford.
     Icey is survived by a sister, Ruth Harmon [Ruth passed away on 9-19-2009] of Watervliet; five grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; and a daughter-in-law, Verna “Red” (Leon) Eldridge of Benton Harbor.
     The family will welcome friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept.10, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where the service to honor her memory will commence at 7 p.m. Pastor Timothy Nyhuis of the Hartford Federated Church will serve as officiant. A private family burial will take place on Friday, Sept. 11, at Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Icey’s name may be made to the donor’s choice.
  
Lucille L. Winslow, 90, of Hartford departed this earthly life on Saturday, Sept. 5, 2009, at Community Hospital, Watervliet.
Lucille was born Jan. 15, 1919, in Hartford. She was the last surviving child of eight children born to Lucius and Hannah (Pierson) Weston.
     Lucille retired after 30-plus years of faithful service from Guards Drug Store in Hartford.
Lucille was preceded in death by her husband, Cecil on Sept. 17,1999; a daughter, Linda Lou Winslow; her parents; four sisters, Elizabeth Acton, Hazel Disbrow, Beulah King and Grace Rouse; and three brothers, Lucius Weston, James Weston and Lawrence Weston.
     Lucille is survived by her son, Harry (Debra) Winslow of Lakeville, Ind.; a granddaughter, Jennifer (Jason) Reinoehl of Mishawaka, Ind.; four great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
     The family will welcome friends on Tuesday, Sept. 8, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where the service to honor her memory will commence at 7:30 p.m. Pastor Ronald W. Hansen of the Hartford United Methodist Church will officiate. Cremation will follow the service. Lucille's ashes will be placed next to her husband in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford Township, at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the donor's choice.


NOTE:
 Lucille was a 1938 Hartford High School graduate.
 
Mrs. Eleanor Ruth French, passed away Wednesday, September 1, 2009 in her Cambria Township home after a prolonged illness. Mrs. French was born May 10, 1921 in Coloma, MI to Jacob and Jennie Friday, well known fruit farmers in the Coloma area. On July 13, 1945, she married Thomas R. French, Montgomery, MI. Mr. French passed away in Cambria Township, May 13, 1999.
     Together they had four children; Dale Thomas (Judy) French of Lawton, MI, Linda died in infancy, Douglas Jacob (Susan) French of Arlington, VA and Gregory Warren (Kathy) French of Inverness, IL. She is also survived by six grandchildren, Scott, Craig, Jason, Thomas, Katie and John Patrick and three great grandchildren, Abbie, Katie and Allie.
     She is preceded in death by one grandchild, Robert in 2002. Three sisters and a brother also preceded.
     Mrs. French was a home economics teacher in southwest Michigan and Quincy, MI, retiring in 1979. She was also a member of the First United Methodist Church of Hillsdale.
     Funeral services for Eleanor French will be Saturday, September 5, 2009, at 10:00 AM, at the First United Methodist Church of Hillsdale with Pastor Curtis Jensen officiating. Interment will follow at Maplewood Cemetery in Reading. The family will receive friends for visitation Friday from 6-8 p.m., at the VanHorn-Eagle Funeral Home in Hillsdale.
     Memorial contributions are suggested to the First United Methodist Church.

NOTE:  Eleanor was a Home Economics Teacher with Hartford Public Schools 1944-1956.  Her husband, Thomas, was an Industrial Arts Teacher at Hartford 1956-1963.  Their son, Dale, was a 1965 HHS graduate. 
 

Deana (Swisher) Bassett, 70, formerly of Hartford, passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2009, at her home in Irons, Mich.
     Deana was born Jan. 10, 1939, the daughter of Chester and Luella (Reed) Swisher, both of whom preceded her in passing. She is survived by seven children, Mike Bassett, Randy Bassett, Candy Huber, Vivian Henry, Rhonda Porter, Luanne Tait, and Rebecca Taylor; two brothers, Art Swisher and Jerry Swisher; five sisters, Opal Thompson, Josephine Stone, Pat Wilson, Ethelyn Pastrick and Belle Gilbert; 14 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
     She was preceded in death by two sons, Richard and David Bassett; five brothers, Jim Reed, Jim Swisher, Charlie Swisher, Bill Swisher, Butch Swisher; three sisters, Glenda Sanders, Luella Swisher and Bonnie Snodgrass; and one grandchild.
     A gathering for family and friends will take place at noon on Sept. 7, 2009, at 129 N. Exchange, Lawrence, Mich. Cremation has taken place and burial will be at a later date.

 
Bernard "Bernie" Leo Schaner, 78, [formerly of Hartford] of Umatilla, Fla., died Saturday, Aug. 22, 2009, at Waterman Hospital. A memorial service will be held in his honor at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 2, at St. Gregory's Parish in Hart, Mich. 
     Bernie was born on Feb. 22, 1931, in Hart, Mich., to Leo and Leona Schaner. He was married to Alica Hoffman-Schaner on Oct. 9, 2001. He served in the U.S. Navy for four years and was a veteran of the Korean War. He was also an active member of the VFW and AMVETS.
     He began his career with Consumers Power in 1956 at the Cobb Plant in Muskegon, from there he was promoted and transferred to Big Rock Point Nuclear Plant in Charlevoix. In 1969, he transferred to Palisades Nuclear Power Plant in Covert where he was operations supervisor. He retired from Consumers Power after 32 years of dedicated service.
     While in retirement Bernie treasured every day of his life and lived it to the fullest. He enjoyed gourmet cooking, woodworking, gardening, fishing, hunting and traveling with his wife, Alicia. 

     He is survived by his wife, Alicia Hoffman-Schaner; his 10 children, Theresa Martens, Anne (Thomas) Lefor, Kathleen Schaner, Bernadette (Rudolph) Neumeier, Gregory Schaner, Veronica Schaner, Phillip Schaner, Christine (Mark) Parker, Matthew (Cyndi) Schaner, Magdalen (William) Dygert; 19 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; a sister, Marcia (Jerry) Morley; many nieces and nephews, and the mother of his children, Margaret Schaner. 
     He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Leona Schaner, brothers, Eugene and James Schaner, and a sister, Shirley Lound.

 

Thomas Bruce Weeden,  54, of Spanish Fort, Ala., formerly of Hartford, passed away Thursday, Aug. 20, 2009, as a result of an automobile accident near Mobile, Ala., where he had made his home for the past 30 years.
     Thomas was born Oct. 29, 1954, the son of Merritt and Louise Weeden, formerly of Hartford.
     Thomas is survived by his sons, Jeffrey Weeden and Jason Weeden, and a daughter, Misty Hill, all of Spanish Fort. He is also survived by his mother, Louise Weeden of Paw Paw; brothers Lee (Dorla) Weeden of Jenks, Okla., and William (Marjorie) Weeden of Hartford; and sisters Merry Link, Janyce Mack and Barbara Carpenter, all of Paw Paw.  Also surviving are Wendy's sisters, Vicky Russell, Kim Trott and Robyn (Larry) Larsen of Hartford; brothers Joe Walton of Florida and Scott Brubaker of Hartford; and many nieces and nephews.
     Thomas was preceded in passing by his wife, Wendy Weeden, his father, Merritt Weeden, and a brother, Fredrick Weeden.
     Tom, as he was known in Spanish Fort and by his friends in Hartford, loved to work on cars and loved auto racing. He made his living as an auto mechanic.
     After services in Alabama, Tom's remains have been flown back to Michigan, where a service to honor his memory will be held on Monday, Aug. 31, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a funeral service to follow. Pastor Timothy Nyhuis of the Hartford Federated Church will officiate. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford.

NOTE: Tom was a 1971 graduate of Hartford High School
 

Mark Brandon Bishop, 34, of Hartford, MI died Monday, August 17, 2009 at Lakeland Regional Medical Center after a sudden illness.
     A funeral service celebrating his life was held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 23 at Legacy Family Funeral Services – Matthew R. Purchase Chapel, Berrien Springs, with Phillip Sirk officiating. Burial followed at Rose Hill Cemetery. Friends were invited to visit with the family one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
     Mark was born on April 18, 1975 In St. Joseph, MI to the late Ronald and Darlene (Bishop) Grubb. Mark was a roofer and worked in the construction trade. He was a gifted person, everyone’s friend who was loved by all and will be deeply missed.
     Survivors include his fiance’- Nicole Shelton, one loving daughter- Sadie Marie Belin of Berrien Springs, his mother, Darlene Grubb, one sister- Lindsey Grubb of Coloma, one brother Ronald Grubb, Jr. of Coloma, his paternal grandmother- Catherine Musick of Berrien Springs. He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Grubb, Sr. on November 12, 2007.
 
Jonathan Paul Hitchcock, 66, Dowagiac, died Aug. 2 at Borgess Medical Center, Kalamazoo. Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, 621-4101.

NOTE:  Jon was a
1961 Hartford High School graduate.
 
Patricia Lou (Heeter) Kirkpatrick, 66, of St. Joseph, formerly of Millburg, passed away on Friday, July 31, 2009, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph.
     A funeral service celebrating her life will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 4, at St. Joseph First United Methodist Church, 3003 Leco Ct. in St. Joseph. Burial will follow in Riverview Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Monday, Aug. 3, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Starks and Menchinger Family Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph.
     Patricia was born on Feb. 7, 1943, in Benton Harbor, the middle of three daughters of Eugene (Butch) and Lucille (Garlanger) Heeter. Pat lived in Hartford and graduated from Hartford High School in 1961.
     Pat worked for the Eldon Smith Insurance Agency in Millburg for many years. She also worked as a teller at Peoples State Bank and later at NBD Bank.  She returned to school and earned her Business Associate’s degree from Lake Michigan College in May 1997. She enjoyed her service to the people of Berrien County, working for Benton Township, retiring in 2001.

     On Feb. 23, 1991, she was united in marriage to Thomas Kirkpatrick. They loved spending time together attending car shows and vacationing in various favorite locations, especially Frankenmuth. Pat loved her flower gardens and reading her Bible and “Our Daily Bread.”  Most of all, Pat cherished the time she spent watching her grandchildren participate in sporting and school events.
     Pat had a giving and compassionate heart extending well beyond her family. Her strong belief in God was manifested in her attendance at Calvary Bible Church in Benton Township and later at St. Joseph’s First United Methodist Church in St. Joseph.
     Pat is survived by her husband, Tom; son, Butch (Lori) Jarvis of Coloma; stepchildren — Robert (Ann) Kirkpatrick of St. Joseph, Teresa (David) Pifer of St. Joseph and Jim (Tammy) Jarvis of Mishawaka, Ind.; sisters, Sandra (Floyd) Sanders of Sister Lakes and Deborah (Burt) Tetzlaff of South Bend, Ind.; and sister-in- law, Ruth (Carl) Hewitt of South Haven. The true joys of her life were her grandchildren — Caroline, Alyssa and Erik Jarvis, Nicholas and Zachary Kirkpatrick; Leah, Reed and Riley Pifer; and Alexandra, Mackenzie and Nathaniel Jarvis. She was loved by her many nieces and nephews.
    Preceding her in death were her parents, Butch and Lucille Heeter.
    Those wishing to share a memory or sign the guest book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.  As expressions of sympathy, memorial contributions may be directed to the American Lung Association.
 

Thomas Jerry Williamson, 62, of Hartford, Michigan passed away Wednesday evening, July 29, 2009 at home with his family at his side.
     A memorial service will be held at noon on Saturday, August 8 at Duffield & Pastrick Family Funeral Home on Paw Paw Avenue in Coloma. Friends may visit with the family from 10 a.m. until noon. Burial of ashes with military rites will take place at a later date in Fort Custer National Cemetery in Battle Creek, Michigan. Memorials may be made to the Ann Arbor V.A. Hospital or to the donor’s choice. Those wishing to sign the online guest book or leave a message of comfort for the family may do so by clicking on the "Sign the guestbook" link on your left.
     Jerry was born in New Haven, Kentucky on May 25, 1947 to Thomas G. and Mary (Culver) Williamson. Following high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served his country in Vietnam. Jerry was employed as a spot welder with Weil-McLain for 32 years until the shop closed in 2005. He then worked at Borroughs Corporation for two years until health problems required a medical leave of absence. Jerry was an avid walleye fisherman and he also loved to hunt and bowl.
     Mr. Williamson is survived by his wife Ann; three sons, Chris Williamson of Coral Springs, FL, Jeremy Williamson of Benton Harbor, Mark (Shauna) West of Berrien Springs; five daughters, Shelly Williamson of Benton Harbor, Melissa (Chris) Wall of Bridgman, Jennifer Wilhite of Bridgman, Jessie Smith of Coloma and Josie (Steven Poindexter) Smith of Coloma; his sister Ann (Chuck) Thompson of Bardstown, Kentucky; two brothers, Ray Williamson of St. Joseph and Dennis (Mirtha) Williamson of Orlando, Florida; and fifteen grandchildren.
     Jerry was preceded in death by his mother, father and two brothers.
 
Naomi (Trowbridge) Matrau, 80, of Hartford and Keeler, passed away Tuesday, July 28, 2009, at New Orchard Grove Extended Care Centre, Benton Township.   Naomi has gone to be with family in heaven.
     Naomi was born Feb. 16, 1929, in Hoxie, Ark., the daughter of Claude and Dora (Riddle) Trowbridge Sr. She came to Michigan with her parents in 1940, and was a life time resident of the Hartford and Keeler area. She loved being in the outdoors and working with her flowers in her garden.
     Naomi is survived by two daughters, Blanch Diane Flippo of Bangor and Melissa Matrau, and one son, Steve (Debbie) Matrau of St. Joseph. Also surviving are seven grandchildren and several great-grandchildren, along with sisters, Mildred Fardello of Coloma, Claudetta (Elbert) Prevatte of Kalamazoo, Nancy (Warren) Walters of Battle Creek, Mary Williams of South Haven, Carol (Alfredo) Rivera of Ohio; and a brother, Donald Trowbridge Sr.  Naomi was preceded in passing by three daughters, Barbra Ann, Betty Sue and Bonnie Jane, a granddaughter, Susan, parents, Claude and Dora, two husbands, Hank Matrau and Roy Fuller, one brother, Claude Trowbridge Jr., and a sister, Nellie Smith.

Naomi was loved by her family and will be missed.
     A graveside service to honor her memory will commence at 1 p.m. Monday, Aug. 3, at the Keeler Cemetery with the Rev. Ronald Hansen of the Hartford United Methodist Church officiating. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford , with handling the arrangements.

 
Pauline Margaret (Scott) Deckert, 81, of Hartford, passed away Friday, July 24, 2009, at her home.
     "Bunny," as she was known by her family, was born Sept. 6, 1927, in Custer, S.D., the daughter of Brose and Ruth (Mecker) Scott, both of whom preceded her in passing. She was also preceded in passing by a daughter, Susan Marie Deckert, and a brother, Jerome Scott.
     Pauline had a great love for music. She loved playing the Hawaiian guitar. She also loved dancing, especially the polka, waltz and ballroom dancing.
     Pauline married Elmer Arthur Deckert on June 6, 1943. He survives, along with two sons, Ronald (Bonnie) Deckert of Marion, Ky., and David Deckert of Hartford. She is also survived by four grandchildren, Connie, Samantha, Rhonda and Britt, and seven great-grandchildren.
     As per Pauline's wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service to honor her memory will commence at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 29, at the Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church, Hartford. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangements.
 
Judith Ann (Miller) Aldrich, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 24, 2009 at her home in Niles, Michigan.
     Judy was a 1957 graduate of Hartford High School.  She earned bachelor of science and master of arts degrees from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, MI.  She was a librarian at Decatur Public Library and Niles Public Library.  Judy married Robert Aldrich on Niles in 1973. 
     She was a loving wife, daughter, sister, stepmother, and friend.  She will be missed by all who knew her.
     Internment was at Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford, MI.  In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for memorials to be made to Lakeland Hospice.
     Survivors include her husband, Robert; one sister, Jacqueline Rosinski of Rochester Hills, MI., one brother, Joseph Miller of Brasstown, NC; her stepfather, Max Moses of Lawrence, MI; and two stepchildren - Tom Aldrich of Rutherfordton, NC, and Beth Mayoff of Noblesville, Indiana.
     Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Richard A. Miller and Nellie M. Moses.

 
Frederick R. Ward Jr., 78, of Hartford passed away at home on Thursday, July 23, 2009.
     Fred was born in Chicago on Dec. 11, 1930. He moved to Hartford in 1941, with his parents, Fred and Rose Ward. He was a 1948 graduate of Hartford High School. He married Arlene Hurley on March 1, 1949.
     Fred was a State Farm agent in Hartford for 30 years, retiring in 1996. He was active in his community, coaching youth baseball for many years, supporting all school events, and serving as president of the PTA. He was a member of the Friends of the Library and a volunteer with Habitat for Humanity. Fred was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. He taught Catechism classes, served as lector, and was on the Church Council.
     He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred Ward and Rose (Ward) Peters, stepfather, Neil Peters, stepbrothers, Neil, John and Don Peters, and stepsisters, Virginia VanOoy and Maxine Olvitt.
     Fred is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Arlene; two sons, Frederick Ward III of Hartford, Ronald (Pamela) Ward of Hartford; daughter, Lauren Ward of Grand Ledge; two granddaughters, Leslie Ward of Chicago and Kim Ward of Los Angeles; sister-in-law, Phyllis Peters of Portage, and Jane Boze of Hartford, who became a part of his family.
     Fred was a generous man who found joy in his friends and family.
     A mass to celebrate his life will be held at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Hartford on Saturday, Aug. 1, at 10:30 a.m. Father Robert Flickinger and Father Fabio Garzon will officiate. Calvin Funeral Home of Hartford is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Hartford Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Hartford Public Library, South Haven Hospice at Home, or the Hartford Fire Department.
 
Hazel Lavera (Murphy) Ward was born on May 26, 1926, in Hayti, Mo., to Della and John Murphy, where she was the youngest of 15 children. She spent the majority of her young life in Missouri. She married young and had four children: Gloria Jean, Sue, (Melton) Ray and (Michael) Steven. She divorced in 1951 and came to live with relatives in Benton Harbor, where she met the love of her life, Howard Ward. They married in 1954 and had two daughters, Lynne and Darlene. The family all lived together in Hartford.
     Hazel was an excellent cook, and in the 1960s and '70s, worked at the A&W Root Beer Stand in Hartford, where son, Steve, and daughter, Lynne, occasionally worked too. It was a great family affair. She later became a cook for Hartford Public Schools, where she worked for 10 years and retired from in 1984.
     Hazel and Howard were soul mates and did everything together, which later included camping. They loved to go to campgrounds and meet their camping buddies, comparing campers. Sadly, Howard passed away in December 1993, just three weeks shy of their 40th wedding anniversary. Hazel spoke of him often and missed him terribly.
     Hazel was very active in her church, Watervliet First United Methodist Church, where she joined a team of ladies that cleaned the church, participated in bible study and especially enjoyed the potlucks. Her green bean casserole was always a hit!
     In June 2009, Hazel suffered a stroke and her health declined. She was transferred to Countryside Nursing Home in South Haven. All of her children had the chance to visit with her in the weeks before her death, sharing fond memories and expressing their love for her and for each other. Her daughter, Darlene was at her side when she peacefully passed away the morning of July 23, 2009.
     Surviving are all of her six children: Gloria Miller of Decatur, Sue (Mike) Duffy of Keeler, Ray (Beverly) Cole of St. Joseph, Steve (Bernadette) Cole of Traverse City, Lynne (Tim) Melvin of Vicksburg and Darlene (James) Henderson of Hartford. She is survived by a multitude of grandchildren, a number of great-grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
     She was preceded in death by her parents, all of her 14 brothers and sisters, and three grandchildren: Pierce Hollenbeck of Decatur, Lisa Duffy of Hartford and Mark Duffy of Keeler. She will be remembered for her great love of family, friends and the Lord.
     Visitation with the family will be on Tuesday, July 28, at 1 p.m. at Calvin Funeral Home, 8 East Main St., in Hartford. The funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. Cremation has already taken place. Burial will be in Fairview Memorial Cemetery in Watervliet.  There will be a funeral luncheon at the Watervliet First United Methodist Church, 8315 Verlynda Drive, provided by the Ladies of the Church, immediately following interment. Friends and family are invited to attend and share memories of Hazel's wonderful life.
     In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made the the Watervliet First United Methodist Church.
 
 
Crystal A. Newton, 91, of Hartford, formerly of Benton Township, passed away peacefully Wednesday, July 22, 2009 at his residence, following an illness. He was born on March 24, 1918 in Cardwell, Missouri to the late Alonzo and Serena (Millon) Newton.
     On February 19, 1940 Crystal married Willie Maxine (McCloud). Crystal served his country proudly in the U.S. Army during WWII. After the war he worked as a laborer most of his life including Whirlpool and Paramount Die Cast, from where he retired. His hobby included spending time outdoors, his Dachshund “Bubbie Dog”, and was devoted to his faith. He was a member of the Church of God of Prophecy in Benton Harbor.
     He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, seven brothers and two sisters. Crystal is survived by two sons Herman (Imogene) Newton of Tiplersville, Mississippi, Jack Newton of Hartford, Michigan, two daughters Judy (Donald) Jackson of Middleton, Tennessee and Yvonne Newton of Benton Harbor and eight grandchildren and a hosts of great-grandchildren.


 
Craig Allan Pompey, 45, of Hartford, passed away suddenly Monday, July 20, 2009 at his home.
     Craig was born October 2, 1963 in Watervliet, the son of Keith and Grace (Williamson) Pompey.
Craig was a 1982 graduate of Hartford High School. He was a former manager with Crystal Flash, serving in both Holland and Paw Paw. He was the youngest store manager in company history and was honored by the company with the President’s Award in 1986. He was former employed with Lane Automotive as a truck driver.
     Outside of the workplace, Craig had a keen sense of nature and the outdoors, where he was an avid fisher and hunter. He had a heart of gold and a compassion for all whom he came in contact with. But his most joy was spending time with his family, especially his two grandchildren.
     Craig is survived by a daughter, Sabrina Pompey of Grand Rapids; a son, Keith A. Pompey of Hartford; two granddaughters, Destini Pompey of Grand Rapids; and Grace Pompey of Hartford. Also surviving are his mother, Grace (William) Rushing of Decatur; his father, Keith (Cheryl Anderson) Pompey of Lawrence; a brother, Kenneth Pompey of Hartford, and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
     Craig was preceded in passing by grandparents, James and Louella Williamson and Kenneth and Gladys Pompey.
     The family will welcome friends from 6 to 8 P.M.; Sunday, July 26 at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service to honor Craig’s memory will commence at 1 P.M.; Monday, July 27 at the funeral home. Pastor Richard Kaiser of the Red Arrow General Baptist Church, Twelve Corners, will serve as officiant. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford Township. Memorial donations in Craig’s name may be made to the family.
 
Tina Bender Erb, 44, of Hartford, passed away Friday, July 17, 2009, at Borgess Medical Center.
    A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 9 a.m. Wednesday, July 22, at St. Joseph Catholic Church of Watervliet, 179 Lucinda Lane in Watervliet, with Father Gordon Green officiating. Burial will follow in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday at Starks & Menchinger Family Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph. Memorials may be made to the Humane Society of Southwestern Michigan or Gabriel Foundation (The Gabriel Foundation. org). Those wishing to share a memory or sign the guest book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
    Tina was born March 6, 1965, in St. Joseph to Robert and Fran (Myers) Bender. On Oct. 22, 2004, she married David Erb. Tina worked as bookkeeper at Don Young Insurance and at My Secret Garden Pet Store. Tina was an outgoing lady and avid pet and animal lover.
    Tina is survived by her husband, David Erb, of Hartford; parents, Fran and Don Young of Watervliet and Robert Bender and his partner, Jane Cuthbert, of Stevensville; three stepsons — Danny Erb of Grand Rapids, Jeremy Erb of Dowagiac and Steve Erb of Watervliet; four stepbrothers — Jeff Young, Victor Cuthbert Jr., William Cuthbert and Mark Cuthbert; and seven stepsisters — Sue Young, Kim Young, Lori Colman, Elizabeth Bush, Gayle Hofbauer and Katherine Thayer.
 
H. Jane McGuire, 89, of El Dorado, Ark, died Wednesday, July 15, 2009, at Life Touch Hospice in El Dorado, Ark.
     She was born March 18, 1920, in Cass Lake, Minn., to William H. and Phoebe Jane (Stockwell) Palmer. She married David Vincent McGuire on Feb. 23, 1945, in Kalamazoo, Mich. They lived most of their lives in Hartford, Mich., where Jane worked for veterinarian Dr. H.J. Meachum. They had two children, Duane William McGuire and Mary (Micki) McGuire Webber. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and daughter.
      She was a member of Hartford
United Methodist Church and attended Asbury United Methodist Church in Magnolia, Ark.
      She is survived by her son, Duane McGuire and wife, Rita, of McNeil, Ark.; four granddaughters – Theresa McGuire Byard of Lawton, Okla., Stacia McGuire Powers and husband, Rob, of Lawton, Okla., Venessa Webber Gentry and husband, Dante, of South Bend, Ind., and Crystal Webber of Niles, Mich; four great-grandchildren – Cody Byard of Abilene, Texas; Nicole Webber of Niles, Kayla and Dominic Gentry of South Bend, and Starsha Wycoff and husband, Brandon, of Fort Sill, Okla.; two great-great-grandchildren, Kenneth Hutchinson and Ethan Wycoff of Fort Sill, Okla.; and many cousins and friends.
      She was cremated according to her wishes. Memorial services will be held at later date in Magnolia, Ark. and Hartford, Mich. Memorials may be made to CCAPS, P.O. Box 2003, Magnolia, AR 71754-2003; Asbury United Methodist Church, 1300 E. University, Magnolia, AR 71753; or Hartford United Methodist Church, 425 E. Main St., Hartford, MI 49057.
      Arrangements were by Bailey Funeral Home of Magnolia, Arkansas.
Jacqueline Louise (Brandt) Szewczyk, 80, of Altmonte Springs, Florida, died Saturday, July 4, 2009, of cancer.
     Jacqueline was born on August 10, 1928, to Robert and Mayme Brandt.  She was formerly employed by Goldblatts of Benton Harbor and Hartford Public Schools.  She was an Auxiliary member of American Legion Post 93.
     Survivors include:  three daughters - Susan Jobe of Kalamazoo, Michigan, Karen (Timothy) Henselin of Orlando, Florida, and Jill Wilkens of Sister Lakes, Michigan; three sons - John (MarySue) Szewczyk of Macomb, Michigan, Steven (Kelly) Szewczyk of Orlando, and Kevin (Karen) Szewczyk of Altmonte Springs; four great-grandchildren; and 14 grandchildren.
     She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Robert (Bob) Brandt Jr.; and three sisters - Marilyn (Brandt) Smith, AnnaMae (Brandt) Scaletta, and Sally (Brandt) Johnson.
     There will be no service at this time.  Any donation can be made to Hospice of Comforter, 480 W. Central Pkwy, Altmonte Springs FL   32701.


NOTE:  Jacqueline was a 1947 Hartford High School graduate.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Szewczyk in 2003
   
Harold Anton Meyer, 77, of Bridgman passed away on Saturday, July 4, 2009, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph.
     Funeral services will be held 10 a.m. Saturday, July 11, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Bridgman, with Pastor Jon Bendewald officiating. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery, Bridgman.  Friends may meet with the family from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at Pike Funeral Home, Boyd Chapel, 9191 Red Arrow Highway, Bridgman. As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be given to Immanuel Lutheran School. Online condolences accepted at www. PikeFH.com.
     Harold was born Oct. 1, 1931, in Keeler, Mich., the son of the late Anton J. and Ida (Skatikat) Meyer. He served in the U.S. Air Force. On June 26, 1954, he married the former Lorraine Rittamel. She preceded him in death on Feb. 7, 2004. Harold had been employed at Pemco Die Casting and Adco Die Casting before co-founding Premier Tool & Die in Berrien Springs and Shawnee Specialties in Eau Claire. He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Bridgman. Harold was an avid antique car and tractor collector.
      Survivors include five children – Barbara (Leo) Ackerman of Bridgman, Jackie (Jeff) Rodewald of Pompano Beach, Fla., Steve (Stacey) Meyer of Sawyer, Anthony (Kimberly) Meyer of Three Oaks, and Dan (Jennifer) Meyer of Stevensville; 17 grandchildren – Jeremy, Chad and Ashley Ackerman, Jordan, Emily, Megan and Aaron Rodewald, Dustin, Chelsey and Levi Meyer, Callie, Haiden and Anna Meyer, Caleb, Mitchell, Lucas and Emma Meyer; a great-grandson, Joelan Coyer; a sister, Dorothy Ott of Bridgman; and a dear friend, Cynthia Brown.
      Harold was also preceded in death by a brother, John Meyer; and a sister, Elizabeth “Betty” Tropp.
Victor Munoz Aranda, 86, of Hartford , departed this earthly life on Thursday, July 2, 2009, at his home.
    Victor was born on Dec. 3, 1922, in Nuevo Leon, Mexico, the son of Atanacio and Adelita (Munoz) Aranda, both of whom preceded him in passing. Victor was also preceded in death by two sons, Pedro and Romaldo Aranda, and a grandson, Ricky Aranda.
    Victor is survived by his wife, Maria; 10 children — Ricardo Aranda and Lydia Aranda, both of Hartford, Luis (Leticia) Aranda, Gerardo (Maria E.) Aranda, both of Lawrence, Josefa (Guillermo) Hernandez of Texas, Jaime Aranda of Indiana, Javier (Patricia) Aranda of Decatur, Irma (Thomas) Cruz of Lawrence and Enrique Aranda and Daniel Aranda, both of Hartford. Victor is also survived by 26 grandchildren; 22 greatgrandchildren; one greatgreat-grandson; and a brother, Marcelino Munoz.
    In 1965, Victor began working at Hill Top Orchards in Lawrence and through hard work became a supervisor. In his spare time he enjoyed working outdoors in his yard and feeding the many kinds of birds that were there.

    The family will welcome friends on Monday, July 6, from 6 to 8 p.m., with a service at 6:30 p.m. at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford. The funeral service to honor his memory will commence at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, at the funeral home. Pastor Romualdo Salas Jr. of the Iglesia Del Espiritu Santo Church of Paw Paw will officiate. Victor will be laid to rest in Hamilton Cemetery in Hamilton Township, Mich.

 
Marsha Kay Summerhill, 58, was born in Hartford Michigan to Walter and Jonell Summerhill on January 26, 1951.  Marsha passed away June 30, 2009 after an unexpected short illness.  She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Jonell Summerhill; brother, Bobbie Summerhill; and sister, Patricia Summerhill.
      Marsha graduated from Hartford High School in 1969.  She went to Central Michigan University and received degrees in English and Medieval Literature.  After traveling around the United States, Marsha settled in Bellevue, Nebraska.
     She is survived by her brother, Terry (Linda) Summerhill; sister, Linda (James) Parkhurst of Phoenix AZ; brother, Randy (Lois) Summerhill of Kalamazoo MI; brother, Donald Summerhill of Bellevue, NE; brother, Ronald Summerhill of Phoenix, AZ; sister, Annette (Richard) Huffman of Pullman MI.  Marsha also has many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.
     Cremation has taken place.  A Memorial Service will be held in her honor at the Hartford Federated Church of Hartford, MI with Pastor Tim Nyhuis officiating on Saturday, July 25, 2009 at 11:00 a.m.

NOTE:  Marsha was Treasurer of Bryant High School in Omaha NE.  She came back to Michigan for the 40+ HHS Alumni Reunion on June 20, 2009, returned home and
went into the hospital on Sunday, June 28th, and passed away on Tuesday, June 30th, 2009.   She died from lung cancer and didn’t know she had it. 
 
John A. Robinson, 76, a resident of the town of Scott, Wis., died June 29, 2009, at his home.
John was born on Nov. 11, 1932, in Paw Paw, to Glen and Della Robinson. He graduated from Hartford High School [class of 1950] then served in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954. He later was a successful real estate developer for many years in Southwest Michigan.
    He was a past member of Elk Club 544 in Benton Harbor, as well as a member of Webb Lake American Legion Post and a proud supporter of Ducks Unlimited.
    John loved being outdoors — hunting, fishing and golfing were some of his favorite pastimes. He also spent a great deal of his “retired” years playing cards. He was an amazing family man and enjoyed life to its fullest making memories with his family and friends.
    John was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Esther.
    He is survived by his wife, Shara, brother, Glen (Marge) Robinson, numerous relatives and many close friends that will miss him dearly.
    A celebration of John’s life will be held Sunday, July 26, at Rookies Bar in Watervliet, from 1 to 5 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Ducks Unlimited.  Arrangements were entrusted to Scalzo-Taylor Family Funeral Home, Spooner, Wis. Online condolences can be offered at www.scalzo-taylor.com.
 
Manuel Romero, 83, of Hartford passed away Monday, June 29, 2009, at his home.
    Manuel was born Jan. 1, 1926, in Bishop, Texas, the son of Juan and Gabriela (Rojas) Romero, both of whom preceded him in passing. Also preceding him were a great-granddaughter, Jordan Manciaz, a brother, Casimiro Ortega, and a sister, Nicolas Guzman.
Manuel started working in the oil fields as a truck driver, given the task of moving oil rigs from field to field. Due to his safe record of no accidents over the course of 18 years, he received many awards. He moved to the area in 1969, where he would remain the rest of his life. After he settled down in the area, he was employed at Duffy Mott’s of Hartford until its closing, when he became a farm contractor.
    Manuel married Oralia Garza on March 14, 1949. She survives, along with three daughters, Diana (Tomas) Castillo of Watervliet, Graciela (Alfonso) Chavez of Hartford and Leticia (Luis) Aranda of Lawrence, five sons, Juan (Sharon) Romero of Illinois, Gerardo (Luisa) Romero of Maryland, Aldo Romero and Lorenzo Romero, both of Hartford and Rodolfo (Crystal) Romero of Coloma. He is also survived by 28 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren and a sister, Francisca Reyna of Losebanos, Texas.
    The family will greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 1, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Hartford, where the Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 2. Father Fabio Garzon will serve as celebrant. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. The family requests that memorials be made to the St. Jude Children’s Hospital or to the Sheriff’s Fraternal Order of Police. Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, is handling the arrangements.

 
Mildred Marie Smith, 90, of Hartford departed this earthly life on Sunday, June 21, 2009, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph.
     Mildred was born on Jan. 26, 1919, in Chicago, the daughter of Paul and Ruth (Thomas) Voight, both of whom preceded her in passing.
     On July 16, 1938, Mildred married Donald Ellsworth Smith. Over the next 47 years, they enjoyed each others company until Donald's passing on Nov. 14, 1985. Mildred lost two brothers, Paul Voight during the Korean War and Jack Voight of Gobles. Mildred lost her sister, Betty Mashak in October 2008. Their oldest son, Donald E. Smith, passed away in May of 2006.
     Mildred is survived by six children, Joanne (Frank) Monaghen of Twin Lakes, Wis., Tom Smith of Stevensville, Robert (Janis) Smith of Fort Pierce, Fla., Debra (Bill Strunk) Smith of Perris, Calif., Michael (Denelle Duncombe) Smith of Houston, Texas and Laurie Smith of Mesa, Ariz. Mildred is also survived by 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren; and three sisters, Pauline Betzner of Otsego, Bonnie (Ed) Schaknies of California and Mary Seymour of St. Joseph.
     Mildred was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church of Hartford where she was past president of the Altar Society. She owned and operated Mildred's Beauty Salon for more than 25 years and from 1981 to 1992 was a volunteer at Community Hospital in Watervliet.
     The family will welcome friends on Wednesday, June 24, from 1 p.m. until the Mass of Christian Burial Service at 2 p.m. at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Hartford. Father Robert Flickinger of St. Basil Catholic Church of South Haven and Father Fabio Garzon of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church will be the celebrants. Mildred will be laid to rest next to her husband in Maple Hill Cemetery in Hartford Township. In lieu of flowers, blood or monetary donations in Mildred's name may be made to the Michigan Community Blood Center by calling (269) 408-1540 or the Alzheimer's Association. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangements.
 
Mildred Donna Lightner, 94, of Sarasota, Fla., formerly of Hartford, passed away June 18, 2009, after a sudden illness.
     Mrs. Lightner was born march 26, 1915, in Hartford, the daughter of Richard and Laura (Nodruff) Conklin.  She was a graduate of Hartford High School in 1933.
     On Nov. 4, 1939, Mildred married Seward Lightner Sr. in South Bend, Ind.  They resided most of their lives in Hartford until retirement, when they moved to Florida and then North Carolina.
  Seward preceded her in death on July 21, 1996.
  Survivors include two sons, David Lightner of In­dialantic, Fla.; and Gary Lightner and wife Suzanne of Sarasota, with whom Mildred made her home; a stepdaughter, Jean Lightner-Sikkenga of Kalamazoo; and stepson, Seward Lightner Jr. of Hartford.
  Among other survivors are five grandchildren, Sabina (Tim) LaClair of South Carolina, Jason Lightner of Florida, Lisa (George) LaCorte of Florida, Lynn Sikkenga of Kalamazoo and Mark (Debby) Lightner of Hartford.
  Also, Mildred leaves behind eight great-grandchildren; three great greatgrandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
      In addition to her parents and husband, Mildred was preceded in death by a brother, Clarence Conklin; two sisters, Roberta Haney and Darlene Burnette; and a granddaughter, Laura Sikkenga.
      In accordance with her wishes cremation has taken place and internment will be in Maple Hill Cemetery in Hartford at a future date.

 
Mary Louise Quintana-Saenz, 84, of Hartford departed this earthly life on Friday, June 19, 2009, at her home.
     Mary was born on Sept. 16, 1924, in McAllen, Texas, the daughter of Erasmo and Maria (Flores) Ellis, both of whom preceded her in passing. Mary is also preceded in passing by 14 children and a brother.
     Mary is survived by her husband, Jose Quintana, whom she married on Aug. 18, 1994; seven children - Elizabeth Saenz, Leon Saenz and Lee Saenz, all of Hartford; Angel (Gloria) Saenz of Dade City, Fla.; Yolanda Saenz and Olga Santiago of Houston, Texas; and Leo (Cindy) Saenz of Maryland. Mary is also survived by numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren great-great-grandchildren and many friends.
     Mary was a loving wife, mother and grandmother who also loved to play practical jokes on the entire family. She always made sure that everyone who came to the house had plenty to eat so no one would ever go away hungry. She enjoyed going dancing and to rummage sales, where she would buy things and then donate them to any child in need.
     The family will welcome friends on Tuesday, June 23, from 1 p.m. until the time of service at 1:30 p.m. at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford. Pastor Antonio Gonzalez of the Temple Jerusalem Church in Bangor, of which Mary was a member, will officiate. Mary will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery in Hartford Township. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Mary's name may be made to the family.
 
JoAnn P. Harper - JoAnn's life began May 26, 1928 in Hartford, Michigan.  JoAnn died Monday, June 15, 2009. 
     She spend her lifetime in the area, raising her family and working for Heath Company and as a cashier for Harding's.  JoAnn also enjoyed being a Stanley Dealer.
     Her loving family includes:  one son, Grant Harper; one daughter, Loretta Bahr; four grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and one great-grandson. 
     She was preceded in death by her husband, Merlin; her parents, Buff and Merle (Boyer) Dale; and two brothers.
     A graveside service will be held Thursday, June 18, at 2:00 p.m. at Watervliet Cemetery.  Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet is assisting JoAnn's family with arrangements.
 
David L. Bailey, 69, of Berrien Center passed away Saturday, June 13, 2009, at home following a long courageous battle with melanoma.
     A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at a later time. Cremation has taken place. Friends may sign the register book at http://www.meaningfulfunerals.net/fh/home/home.cfm?fh_id=10160. Legacy Family Funeral Service - Matthew R. Purchase Chapel assisted the family with arrangements.
     David was born on Feb. 17, 1940, in Keeler, Mich., to Lester and Mildred (Leach) Bailey.
     David served his country in the U.S. Army. He was a lifelong mechanic, repairing small engines to large industrial machinery. He was last employed at Ferguson Michiana Inc., in Eau Claire and after retirement worked for the Emma Teichman Farm. On June 5, 1982, David married Judy (Strong) Fisher who survives. David loved the game of horseshoes and visiting with friends and family.
     In addition to his loving wife, David is survived by one daughter, Deborah West of St. Joseph; one son, Randolph (Diane) of Bangor; one special stepdaughter, Debora (Mike) Conley of Indianapolis; three sisters, Marian Strand of Watervliet, Linda (Jerry) Curtis of Dowagiac and Sandy (Doug) Rouse of Benton Harbor; two brothers, Don (Pat) and Dennis, both of Decatur; one grandson, Duncan (Lauren) Fisher of Berrien Center; and many loving nieces and nephews.
     David was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother-in-law, Jim Strand.
     Memorials in David's memory may be directed to Hospice at Home, 4017 Chamberlain Road, Buchanan, Mich. 49107 or to Eau Claire Cherry Festival Horseshoe Tournament, 6507 E. Main St., Eau Claire, Mich. 49111.
 
Robert M. Conolly, Long Beach CA, passed away June 10, 2009.  He was born in Hartford, Michigan where he attended school and later college.
     During WWII he received the Bronze Star while serving in the Philippines. On leave he met his wife Marge and moved to California. In California he attended Whittier College, CSULA, and USC. They lived for many years in Monterey Park. Bob was a coach and counselor at Montebello Jr. High then transferred to Schurr Jr. High, which became Schurr High School where he became Vice Principal and Dean of Administration. They moved to Belmont Shore in 1972 to enjoy retirement, golfing and walking 2nd Street.
     He is survived by his daughter Kathy Moad, son Bill Conolly, granddaughter Venita Ibarra and great-grandchildren Haley and Jared.
   
 Bob was a good neighbor and a wonderful man. He will be greatly missed by all. The family was assisted by the Neptune Society.


Bob was a 1933 Hartford High School graduate and served as President of his class.
 

 

Curtis Wayne Carter, age 69, Battle Creek MI, passed away June 8, 2009.  He was December 16, 1939.

NOTE:  Known as "Wayne" in school, he was a 1958 Hartford High School graduate.
 

Elsie L. Steiner, 85, of St. Joseph, passed away on Wednesday, May 27, 2009, at The Willows, St. Joseph.
     A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, June 1, at Starks & Menchinger Family Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph, with the Rev. Roy Jeffery officiating. Visitation with the family will be from 5 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, May 31, at the funeral home. A private burial will take place in Mock Cemetery, N. Webster, Ind. Memorials may be made to Hospice at Home or the American Diabetes Association. Those wishing to share a memory or sign the guest book online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.
     Elsie was born on Aug. 14, 1923, in Miles City, Mont., to Oscar and Ethel (Cole) Achamire. She married her husband, Robert L. Steiner, on May 4, 1944, in Miles City. After marriage, they lived in several cities. Most recently in Hartford, Mich., and North Webster, Ind. Together, they raised a son, Bob.  Elsie loved reading, sewing, crocheting, gardening and decorating her home. Most of all, she cherished her family.
     Elsie is survived by her son, Bob (Marilyn) Steiner of Benton Harbor; sister, Margaret Hintz of Clinton Twp., Mich.; grandchildren - Rob (Sarah) Steiner, Becky Steiner and Kristine Steiner; great-granddaughter, Amelia Steiner; and several nieces and nephews.
     She is preceded in death by her husband, Robert L. Steiner in 1981; bothers, Sonny and Ike Achamire; and her parents, Oscar and Ethel Achamire.

 
Floyd K. Crocker of Portage, Michigan, formerly of Watervliet, MI, passed away Sunday, May 24, 2009, at Wynwood in Portage. He was bom August 19, 1909, in Calumet, the son of William and Jane (Bennets) Crocker.
     He was a grocery manager at Harding’s in Watervliet and Hartford, retiring in 1974; member of Plymouth Congregational Church in Watervliet; and member of Haines City Methodist Church in Haines City, Florida.
     In 1940, in Watervliet, Floyd was united in marriage to the former Mary McNitt who preceded him in death in 1967. On November 3, 1980, he married Grace Clark who preceded him in death in March 2009.
     He was also preceded in death by two brothers, two sisters, one step-son, and one stepdaughter. Survivors include: two children - Susan (John) Feather of Lancaster, Kentucky, and Steven Crocker of Lansing, MI; a stepdaughter, Lois (Wayne) Perrino of Paw Paw; seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
     Cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, May 29, at Watervliet Cemetery, with Hospice Chaplain Elizabeth Code officiating. Memorial contributions may be directed to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan. Arrangements are by
Adams Funeral Home, Paw Paw.
     Share a memory or condolence online at www.timeformemory.com/adams.

 
Linda Ann [Bernard] Hix, 53, of Reston, Va., formerly of Hartford, passed away on May 22, 2009.
     She is survived by her loving mother, Gertrude Louise Bernard; brother, Lawrence J. Bernard; sister, Sharon M. Wilkens; nephews, Michael and Mathew Bernard; nieces, Katharyn Foote and Kimberly Wilkens; and one great-nephew, Bryan Foote.
     Family will receive friends for a memorial visitation at Adams-Green Funeral Home, 721 Elden St., Herndon, Va., today, May 27, from 6 to 7 p.m. with a memorial service following at 7 p.m. The family suggests that memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Capital Hospice or a charity of your choice.

NOTE:  Linda was a 1973 Hartford High School graduate.

F. Weir Locke, 80, of Lawton, Michigan, formerly of Hartford, MI, and Chicago, Illinois, passed away Thursday, May 21, 2009, in Bronson Nursing & rehab Center in Lawton. 
     He was the beloved son of the late William M. and Mary T. (nee O'Day) Locke, cherished brother of the late William M. (Evelyn) and Richard E. (Rose) Locke; and dear uncle to many nieces and nephews.
     Private burial was held at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Worth, Illinois.  Arrangements were made by Newell Funeral Home in Decatur Michigan.
 
Rodolfo Serratos, age 76, of Bangor passed away Wednesday, May 20, 2009, at his home. 
     The family will meet friends on Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, where funeral services will take place at 3 p.m. Cremation will follow the services.  www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com. 
     Rodolfo was born July 11, 1932, in Mexico the son of Juan and Rosario (Macias) Serratos and has resided in Bangor since 1976. He was the owner and operator of La Mexicana Grocery Store in Bangor and La Hacienda Grocery Store in Hartford.  He was always willing to help those in need.  Rodolfo was active in his church and brought many people to know God. 
     Surviving are his wife, Esperanza, whom he married in 1957; five children, Rodolfo C. Serratos of Hartford, Rosario Serratos of Bangor, Lilia Arreola of Hartford, Guillermo (Darlene) Serratos of Hartford, Arturo (Patricia) Serratos of Bangor; 11 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; three sisters, Margarita Hanks of Texas, Yolanda Avila of Mexico, Blanca Monroy of Texas. 
     He was preceded in death by a brother, Raul Serratos; and a sister, Emma Escalante.
 
Florence Sieber, 94, of the Whitcomb Tower in St. Joseph, passed away on May 17, 2009, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center.
     A funeral service celebrating her life will be held at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20, at Starks & Menchinger Family Funeral Home, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph. A visitation will be held today, May 19, from 5 to 7 p.m. and also on Wednesday, one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow in Riverview Cemetery in St. Joseph. Those wishing to share a memory or sign the guestbook online may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com. Memorial donations may be made to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) in honor of David Sieber, or to a charity of donor's choice.
     Florence was born on Nov. 13, 1914, in Chicago, to Frank and Josephine (Miska) Hradecky. The family moved to Hartford in 1926 where she graduated from high school in 1933. The family owned the town bookstore. In 1933, she was chosen to be Miss Hartford in the Blossomtime Festival. On Oct. 12, 1940, Florence married Edward Sieber and started a married life in Fairplain almost 69 years ago. She was an avid bridge player and enjoyed playing in several bridge groups.
     Besides her husband, she is survived by two sons, James (Sandra) Sieber of Lake Forest, Ill., and John (Janet) Sieber of Coloma. In addition, there are six grandchildren, Bryan Sieber of Royal Oak, Mich., Dr. David Sieber and Jonathon Sieber of Chicago, Mark (Christi) Sieber of Granger, Ind., Jeffrey Sieber of Lafayette, Ind., and Tara Sieber of Breckenridge, Colo.
     She was preceded in death by her parents, three sisters, Helen Jutzi, Bess Andreen and Loretta Rauner, and an infant daughter, Mary Ellen.
     Florence was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother and will be greatly missed by her family.

 

Violet Beatrice Hyde, 98, of Paragould, Ark., formerly of Keeler and Hartford, passed away Thursday, May 14, 2009, at Green Acres Nursing Home, Paragould, Ark.
     Violet was born Oct. 19, 1910, in Heber Springs, Ark., the daughter of Abe and Florence (Williams) Files, both of whom precede her in passing.
     Violet was a loyal employee of Burnette Foods in Keeler, where she worked for many years. She was a member of the Dowagiac Church of Christ. But she was most known for the love that she gave to her family everyday, especially her grandchildren.
     Violet is survived by a son, Files (Janice) Hyde of Paragould, Ark.;  three grandchildren — Tammy Thompson, Tony Hyde and Terry Hyde; seven great-grandchildren; five great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
     Besides her parents, Violet was preceded in passing by her husband,  Farris Hyde on Aug. 7, 1990; and two sisters, Blanche Verser and Myrtle Spanhurst.
     The family will welcome friends from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, May 18, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where the service to honor her memory will commence at 1 p.m. Bill Gibson of the Dowagiac Church of Christ will officiate. Burial will follow in Keeler Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society.
 



Dorothy Wilson Beam, 81,Twin Peaks CA, formerly of Hartford, passed away May 8, 2009.  She was born June 17, 1927. 
 

NOTE:  Dorothy was a 1945 Hartford High School graduate.

Reginald "Reggie" B. Moore, 78, formerly of Hartford, passed away Tuesday, May 5, 2009, in North Carolina.
     Funeral services celebrating his life will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 9, at the Dey-Florin Chapel of Florin Funeral Service, 2506 Niles Ave., St. Joseph. Burial will follow at Hartford Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
     Reginald was born Aug. 4, 1930, in North Carolina. He married Lucille Williams and together they had three children, Rick, Regina and David. They were long-term residents of both Hartford and St. Joseph. Reggie paved many roads in the area as Crew Leader of the John G. Yerington and Consumer's Asphalt Companies. He served as an Elder of the Lawrence, Hartford, and Niles Ave. Church of Christ for several years. Reggie's second marriage was to Ms. Marcell Heath of North Carolina. They had been residents of both Winter Haven, Fla., and Callawhea, N.C. "Daddy is in a better place and will be missed by all."
     Reginald is survived by his three children, Rick of Memphis, Tenn., Regina Tibbs of Murfreesboro, Tenn., and Allen of Selsbee, Texas; four grandchildren; and by five great-grandchildren; wife, Marcell Heath and her three grandchildren and eight grandchildren.
     He was preceded in death by Mrs. Lucille (Moore) Williams of Alicia, Ark., in 1998.
 
Sammy Joe Wilmoth, 65, Hartford, died May 3 in Hartford Township.  Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, 621-4101, are handling arrangements.
 
Robert Louis Scranton, Brighton Mich, age 90, passed away on Wednesday, April 29, 2009. He was the son of Melvin V. and Charlotte M. (Nunn) Scranton born in Paw Paw, on Nov. 8, 1918.
     He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mildred M. Scranton of Brighton; son, Clare A. (Cas) Scranton of Pinckney, one daughter, Karen Lou (Chet) Kierpaul of Westland; five grandchildren, Eric Scranton of Pinckney, Aaron Kierpaul of Westland, Kassandra L. Kierpaul of Westland, Darren Jones of Greenville and David Jones of Detroit; one sister, Geraldine R. (George) Jacher of Paw Paw; one sister-in-law, Gail (Clyde) Coleman of Berrien Springs; and several nieces and nephews.
     He was preceded in death by his parents.
     Bob graduated from Western Michigan University and received his master's degree from the University of Michigan. After teaching one year at Byron Center, Mich., he joined the U.S. Army in 1942. He served in the 106th Infantry Unit and was a P.O.W. captured in Germany during the famed "Battle of the Bulge."
     He remained very active in the military years, was a member of the American Legion for more than 50 years and serving as commander of the Brighton Post 235, was a Charter member of the 106th Infantry Division Association which meets annually. He served as Adjatant of the Division for 12 years, was past president and is a Life Member.
     He taught at Hartford Public Schools for 4-1/2 years. He began teaching/coaching at Brighton Area Schools in 1952, was Athletic Director, Principal of Brighton Middle School. After 25 years of outstanding services the B.A.S. Board of Education named the school in his honor "Robert L. Scranton" Middle School. When the middle school was built on Maltby Road in 1993 the name was transferred to the school.
     One of the gifts received at the naming of the school in 1977 was a Life Membership to the University of Michigan "M" Club in Ann Arbor. He ultimately served on the Board in various capacities including secretary-treasurer.
     As head of the Brighton Recreation in the 1960s, he had summers of Little League, American Legion baseball and taught hundreds of children and adults to swim, life-saving classes. Bob was active in Brighton Rotary Club serving as president. He received the prestigious "Paul Harris Fellow" Award from the club, Rotary Foundation of Rotary International.
     As a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Brighton since April 11, 1957, he served both as Deacon and Elder. Bob had a strong faith and lived it. He loved Brighton and has many friends here.
     Sports were his prime interest after family ushering at U of M football and basketball for many years, was a member of the Representative Council 1970-1983. He loved his family, church, U of M, sports and travel.
     Visitation, today, 1 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at Herrmann Funeral Home, Brighton. Funeral, Saturday, 12 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Brighton. Burial will follow in Brighton Hills Cemetery. Memorials suggested to: Robert L. Scranton Academic/Athletic Fund or the First United Presbyterian Church. Contributions may be made to: Robert L. Scranton, 9441 Old Lee Road, Brighton, Mich. 48116.

NOTE:  From 1946-1952, Robert was a teacher-coach at Hartford High School.  He married Mildred (Clover) Scranton, a 1943 Hartford High School graduate.  Click here to read an incredible story about Robert, who was a POW during WW11 prior to his teaching-coaching experience in Hartford. 
 

Melvin Lee Haltom - a Celebration of Life will be held for Melvin Lee Haltom Sunday, May 17, 2009, at 2 p.m. at 86351 70th St., Watervliet, where a gathering and potluck will be held. Call for information 463-5834.
     Melvin passed away April 26, 2009, at Borgess Medical Center, Kalamazoo. He was born in Clinton, Ind., Oct. 7, 1939, and resided in Hartford.  He was preceded in death by one son.
     He is survived by 10 children, 17 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and a whole world of people who loved him.

 


David Wesley Haney
passed away peacefully on May 10, 2009, at his home in El Cajon, California, from cancer, surrounded by his loving family.
     He was born in Lawrence, Michigan, on April 18, 1945, to Wesley and Vivian Haney.
     Survivors include his loving wife of 42 years, Marilou of El Cajon; two sons - David and Steven of San Diego, CA: one granddaughter, Ilona; one brother - Don Haney of Hartford, Michigan, and many other relatives and friends.

NOTE:  David was a 1964 Hartford High School graduate.  He also served in the US Navy during the Vietnam era.

Mina "Peggy" Cadwell, 78, of Hartford passed away on Tuesday, April 28, 2009, at home after a courageous battle with cancer. 
     A celebration of her life will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 1, at the Fairplain Chapel of Florin Funeral Service in Benton Harbor.  Burial will follow in North Shore Memory Gardens.  The visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. today at the Fairplain Chapel.  Memorials may be made to the family. 
     Peggy was born on Feb. 15, 1931, in Sodus to Lester and Marie Wycoff.  She married her husband, Martin Cadwell, on July 19, 1952, in Benton Harbor and together they shared 56 glorious years of marriage.  Peggy was a loving and devoted mother, grandma, sister, aunt and friend.  She spent everyday of her life doing for others.  Her main joy in life besides her family was her collection of glass shoes. 
     She is survived by her husband, Martin; her children, Ann (Bobby) Wade of Hartford, Paul Cadwell of Holland and Lisa Jackson, who she considered a daughter; her sisters, Sue (Al) Faultersack, Edith (Harold) Lewis; her brothers, Jerry Wycoff, Larry (Dianne) Wycoff, Lloyd (Connie) Wycoff, Bob Wycoff and John (Pat) Wycoff; her grandchildren, Amber (Ramon), Julia (Mike), Bryan (Ashley), Jeremy (Shiloh) and Ashley; and her great-grandchildren, Dakota, Gabby, Marcus, Deidre, Isabella and Aiden. 
     Besides her parents, Peggy was also preceded in death by her brother, Ray, sisters, Joyce and Liz, granddaughter, Marie, and great grandson, Alexx.
 
Dora L. Hathaway, 87, of Coloma died Sunday, April 26, 2009, in St. Joseph at her granddaughter's residence.
     Services celebrating her life will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 30, at the Coloma United Methodist Church. Burial will be in Coloma Cemetery. The visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday at the Davidson Chapel of Florin Funeral Service in Coloma. An Order of the Eastern Star Service will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday at Davidson Chapel. Memorials may be made to Hospice at Home in St. Joseph, Coloma Order of the Eastern Star No. 307 or the Coloma United Methodist Church.
     Dora was born on Dec. 15, 1921, in Battle Creek, Mich., to Harry and Nellie Wright. She had lived in this area since 1930. She graduated from Lawrence High School in 1939 and she graduated as registered nurse from Bronson Methodist Hospital School of Nursing in Kalamazoo in 1944. She married her husband, Claude Hathaway in 1959. He preceded her in death on May 20, 1997. Together they celebrated 38 years of marriage. Dora worked for 25 years in the office of Dr. Carl Boothby in Hartford. She then worked as an RN in area hospitals, the latest was Community Hospital in Watervliet. After retiring from Community Hospital as staff nurse on the Medical/Surgical Unit 2, Dora enjoyed doing volunteer work for American Red Cross Blood Drives and in the area clinics sponsored by the hospitals. She enjoyed reading, gardening and traveling. But most of all, Dora loved being with her family.
     She was a member of Coloma United Methodist Church, life member of Coloma Order of the Eastern Star No. 307. Dora was also a member of American Nurses Association, Michigan State Nurses Association, Southwestern District Nurses Association and the American Red Cross.
     Dora is survived by a son, Richard Cramer of Glendale, Calif., and a daughter, Jacqui (Erhard) Gerstenkorn of Groveland, Fla.; four grandchildren, Becky (Bernd) Lucius, Tim Gerstenkorn, Ed Gerstenkorn and Colleen (Charlie) Cox; three great-grandchildren, Brittany, Brandon and Mackenzie; a sister, Mrs. Phyllis Conklin of Lawrence; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
     She was also preceded in death by a stepson, Larry Hathaway; her parents, Harry and Nellie Wright; and two brothers, Norman and Donald Wright.
 

Franklin J. Hurlbut, 97 years, of Pinckney, Michigan died Sunday evening, April 26, 2009 at the Veterans Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
     He was born July 14, 1911 in Bendon, Michigan; the son of John and Harriet (Swan) Hurlbut. Franklin married Mary Adams on June 7, 1948 and she preceded in death November 1997.
     He is survived by two daughters, Phyllis (Mark) Candy and Cindy (Tom) Smith; two sons, Don (Maria) Hurlbut and Neal Hurlbut; eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren; Franklin was preceded in death by his son, Tom.
     Franklin was a retired truck driver and a Navy Veteran of WWII.
     Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial service will be held at 11 AM Thursday, April 30, 2009 at Shelters Funeral Home 250 N Mill Pinckney, Michigan. Family will receive friends 10 AM until time of service. Memorials are asked to the Veterans Hospital.

Note:  Franklin attended Hartford High School and was on the committee for the first all school reunion, which was held in about 1980.  He owned the Midget Lunch Room Restaurant during the 1930s.
 

Lindell Eugene Carlisle, 74 of Hartford, passed away Wednesday, April 22, 2009, at Borgess Medical Center, Kalamazoo.
     Lindell was born Nov. 9, 1934, in Parma, Mo., the son of Hubert and Leona (Brown) Carlisle, both of whom preceded him in passing.
     Lindell retired from Friday Tractor in Hartford after 44 years of faithful service. Outside of the workplace, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping in the outdoors and building wood products, especially cabinets.
     Lindell married the former Treva Conner on Feb. 19, 1952. She survives, along with children, Dwayne (Tamara) Carlisle of Grand Junction, Colo., Larry (Karen) Carlisle and Brenda (Doug) Musick, both of Hartford, Diana (James) Middleton of Coloma, Perry (Susan) Carlisle of Vicksburg, Teresa (David Sparks) Carlisle of Kalamazoo and Mike (Peggy) Carlisle of Lawrence. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Joyce (Allen) Helton of Missouri, and Sharon Larion of Harrison; and a brother, Gary (Genita) Carlisle of Eufaula, Ala.
     The family will welcome friends from 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 25, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where the service to honor his memory will commence at 2 p.m. Missionary Dean Brown will serve as officiant. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. The family requests memorial donations in Lindell's name be made to the South Haven Area Hospice.

 
Rachel Ellen Shagonaby, 85, of Hartford went to be with her Lord Saturday, April 18, 2009, at Kairos Dwelling, Kalamazoo.
     Rachel was born Sept. 18, 1923, in Hartford, the daughter of Francis and Ruth (Jones) Gowens, both of whom preceded her in passing. Also preceding her in passing were a brother, Francis Gowens, and two sisters, Edith LaTour and Mildred Wesaw.
     Rachel worked for Adams Electronics, the Hartford Speedway and Salutos, from which she retired. She was a loyal member of the Hartford Federated Church, where she spent much of her adult life serving as a Sunday school teacher and singing in the choir.
     Rachel is survived by three daughters, Theresa (Earl) McFall of South Haven, Jacqueline (Tom) Trux of Hartford and Pamela (Michael) Gardner of Hawaii. She is also survived by 11 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.
     The family will greet friends from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 22, at the Hartford Federated Church, where the service to honor her memory will take place at 1 p.m. Pastor Timothy Nyhuis will officiate. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. The family asks memorial donations in Rachel's name be made to Kairos Dwelling. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangements.

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct they paths.       Proverbs 3:5-6
 

Norman Junior Burfield, 67, of Hartford, departed this life suddenly on Thursday, April 16, 2009, at Community Hospital, Watervliet.
     Norman was born Aug. 8, 1941, in Moulton, Ala., the son of Jess and Nora (West) Burfield, both of whom preceded him in passing. Also preceding him in passing were three brothers - Raymond, Leon and Marvin, and a sister, Louise.
     Norman was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather who loved spending time with everyone. He was an outdoorsman by heart as shown by his love of hunting and fishing.
     Norman is survived by his wife, Barbara of 20 years; his children - Nora Mildred Burfield, Norman Junior Burfield, Alex "Partner" Burfield-Cook, all at home, Cindy Lou O'Neil, John (Nicki) Burfield, both of Hartford, Toni Burfield of Boyne City, Laura (Mondo) Favela of Mesick, Stacy Burfield, Duane (Diana) Burfield, both of Traverse City, Joe (Michelle) Burfield of Fife Lake and Jodi Burfield of Texas. Norman is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; a brother, Wallace Burfield of Boyne City; and sisters - Bertha Mae (Bedford) Borden of Bangor, Lucille LaFlame of South Haven, Francis Ortquist of Kalamazoo and Fae Godell of Canton, Ga., a lifelong friend, Lamon (Judy) Montgomery; and many nieces and nephews.
     The family will welcome friends on Tuesday, April 21, from 6 until the time of service at 7:30 p.m. at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford. Deacon Arthur Morsaw will serve as officiant. As to Norman's wishes, cremation will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Norman's name may be made to the family.
 
Donald J. Drake, 87 of Hartford went peacefully home to be with his Lord on Thursday, April 16, 2009.
     Don, as he was known by all whom knew him, was born Sept. 5, 1921, in Bangor Township, the son of Curtis and Jean (Humphrey) Drake, both of whom preceded him in passing. Also preceding him in passing were his wife, Joyce on Sept. 21, 1997, a stepmother, Pansy Drake, a brother, Virgil Drake, and a brother-in-law, Donald Schroyer.
     Don was a 1940 graduate of Hartford High School. He served his country honorably as a member of the United States Army during World War II. He was a successful fruit farmer all his life. He served as a member of the Hartford Public Schools School Board and as the supervisor of the Hartford Township Board.

     He was a long time member of the Hartford Federated Church, where he served as a deacon, Sunday School Superintendent and a Sunday school teacher. He was also a member of the Gideons. Outside of work and church, Don was an avid deer hunter and fisherman. But most importantly, he was a wonderful husband, loving father and a man of integrity, who was known throughout the community as being an encourager, generous and a bold witness for his Lord.
     Don is survived by four daughters, Karen (Stanley) Carey of Dowagiac, Jeri (Allyn) Anthony of Hartford, JoAnne (Douglas) Smith of Bangor and Kathleen (Kevin) Lantz of Troy, Ohio; grandchildren, Benjamin (Adrianne) Smith of Tampa, Fla., Peter Smith of Annapolis, Md., Timothy Smith and Marcus Smith, both of Bangor, David Lantz and Rebekah Lantz, both of Troy, Ohio. He is also survived by a brother, Curtis (Irene) Drake of Hartford, a sister, Shirley Schroyer of Bangor, a sister-in-law, Viola Drake of Bangor and several nieces and nephews.
     The family will welcome friends from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, April 18, at the Hartford Federated Church. The service to honor his memory will commence at 3 p.m. Sunday, April 19, at the church. Pastor Timothy Nyhuis will officiate. Burial will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford, where military rites will be conducted by VFW Post 6803, VFW Post 1137 and American Legion Post 362 and Auxiliary. The family asks memorial donations in Don's name be made to the Hartford Federated Church, Grace Christian School or to the Gideons. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangements.

You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.    John 15:16
 

Maxine Cherry Martin (nee Markel) 86, entered into her eternal home on April 11, 2009 in Clare, MI.
     Maxine was born on July 27, 1922 in Grand Rapids, MI, daughter of Warren and Clara (Cherry) Markel. She was married for 58 years to Rev. C. William Martin, and served eight churches with him in western Michigan. They retired in 1989 to Shelby, MI. Maxine was a great worker for the Lord, serving in many positions in United Methodist Women organization, teaching Sunday School and in the camping programs of the church. Since coming to Shelby, she also mentored students in the elementary school and was known for the many birthday cards sent to those on Life Line and her holiday treats.
     Maxine was loved, her smile and laughter will be missed by her husband C. William; children, Dr. David and Colleen Bremer of Clare, MI, Kim and Claudia Volheim of Granger, IN, and Charles and Beth Martin of Midland, MI; grandchildren, Zachary and Lynn Clement-Bremer, Kara Bremer, Nathan and Benjamin Volheim and Hannah and Evan Martin; sisters-in-law, Harriet Markel of El Paso, TX, Charlene Martin and Marcia Snoek of Grand Rapids. Maxine is also remembered with much love by her nieces and nephews.
     She was preceded in death by two brothers, Melvin and Raymond, and a sister, Jennie Bloomer.
     Funeral services will be held 11 AM Thursday, April 16th, at St. Paul's United Methodist Church where the family will receive friends from 10-11 AM before the service. Interment Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Maxine's name to the Shelby United Methodist Church or to the United Methodist Community House in Grand Rapids. Visitation will take place Wednesday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM at the Ofield Funeral Home, 4500 Kalamazoo SE, Kentwood.

Note: 
Rev. C. William and Maxine Martin were at Hartford United Methodist Church in the early 1960's.
 
Eleanor Louise Jones, 82 of Keeler Township, passed away Friday, April 10, 2009, at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, St. Joseph.
     Eleanor was born Sept. 30, 1926, in Hartford, the daughter of Dan and Violet (Smith) Tuttle, both of whom preceded her in passing. Also preceding her in passing were her husband, Robert, and two brothers, Verl Taylor and Charles VanWoert.
     Eleanor enjoyed traveling, sewing and working in the outdoors. But most importantly, she loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.
     Eleanor is survived by three sons, Dan (Deborah) Jones of Watervliet, Bobi (Kelli) Jones of Dowagiac and Tony (Ann) Jones of Hartford. She is also survived by nine grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and a sister, Irene Leach of Hartford.
     As per Eleanor's wishes, cremation has taken place. The family will welcome friends from 10 to 11 a.m. Thursday, April 16, at the Sister Lakes Community Church, where the service to honor her memory will commence at 11 a.m. Pastor Doug Cuthbert and Pastor Scott Stambaugh will officiate. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangements.

 
Robert Meeks - Bob passed away Monday evening, April 6, 2009, at his home. He was born Dec. 10, 1947, in Charleston, W.Va., the son of the late Lawrence and Dove (Judy) Meeks.
     Bob was employed as a bookkeeper until his retirement and was a member of the Full Gospel Church, Paw Paw. On July 3, 1971 in Grand Rapids,
     Bob was united in marriage to Sandra Kay McCall who survives. Also surviving are a daughter, Lisa Meeks of Grand Rapids; son, Robert Meeks of Hartford; two grandchildren, Ashley and Nicolas Jordan; sister, Janet Lea VanZandt of North Carolina; brother, Lawrence Meeks Jr. of Virginia; several nieces and nephews.
     Family will receive friends Thursday 11 a.m. to noon at the Full Gospel Church, Paw Paw where funeral services will be held at 12 p.m. with Pastor William Chapman officiating. Cremation will follow the services. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family. Arrangements by the Adams Funeral Home, Paw Paw. Share a memory or condolence on line at: www.timeformemory.com/adams.
 
Arthur "Rocky" Furlan - age 88. Best known as "the Bike Man on Riverside Avenue", Rocky (born 12/29/1920) was a resident of Riverside, CA for 45 years. He passed away due to heart failure at Riverside Community Hospital [on April 4, 2009].
     Rocky served in the Army Air Corps as a 2nd Lt. during WWII, became a salesman and later worked for Riverside Auto Auction. He was a member of the Italian Catholic Federation, Knights of Columbus, and usher at St. Catherine's Church.
     Rocky will be dearly missed by his wife of 62 years, Gloria Furlan; daughter, Margo (David) Miley; sons, Mark (Kathy) Furlan and David (Dana) Furlan; grandchildren Roxanne Johnson, Tom Furlan, Mark Furlan, Melissa Margaretis and Katie Furlan, also his dog Shadow and by all those whose lives he touched. He was the best grandfather ever.
     Funeral Mass on April 8 at noon, at St. Catherines Church, Riverside. Burial on April 9 at Riverside National Cemetery at 10:45am at Staging Area #4. Acheson & Graham Mortuary (951) 688-1221

NOTE:  Art attended the Thomas school and was a 1940 Hartford High School graduate.  Click here to read an interesting story by high school friend, Bick Beckwith, regarding Art and the war.
 

Earl Raymond Weber, 77, of Keeler passed away Friday, April 3, 2009, at his home. Earl was born May 15, 1931, in Bainbridge, the son of Earl and Florine (Clay) Weber, both of whom preceded him in passing.
     Earl retired from Klett Construction after 30 plus years of dedicated service. He was a heavy equipment mechanic and was a 45+ year member of the Operating Engineers Local 324.
     Earl is survived by six children, Earl Weber III, Charles (Susan) Weber, David Weber, Charlotte Weber, Jeffery Weber and Christopher Weber, 12 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
     The family will welcome friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, April 9, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service to honor his memory will commence at 11 am. Friday, April 10, at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Keeler Cemetery. The family asks donations in Earl’s name be made to the American Cancer Society.
 
Chester Paul Swisher Jr., 87, of San Diego, Calif, formerly of Hartford, died April 2, 2009.  [He was born April 20, 1921 in Benton Harbor MI.]
     Chester joined the Navy in 1939, He was on the USS Maryland on Dec. 7, 1941 in Pearl Harbor. Then went on LST 354 and was at the helm of landing craft at the invasion of the Marshall Islands which was hit by a shell that killed most of the men on the craft.  He retired as Chief Petty Officer after 26 years in the Navy. He had an insurance business in San Diego. 
     He is survived by his wife, Cleo; his brother, Art Swisher; his stepsisters, Josephine Stone, Opal Rhinehart Tomson; and half-brother and sister, Gerald Swisher, Lulabell Gilbert, Deana Bassett, Ethelyn Pastrick, Audrey Wilson.
     He was preceded in death by his mother, Vema Swisher; stepmother, Lullia Swisher and his father, Chester Swisher Sr.; his brothers, Jim and Charles; and by his sister, Helen Gross; and by is step-brother and sister, James Reed, Glenna Sanders; his half-brother and sister, William, Floyd, Bonnie Snodgrass and Luella Swisher.
    
 Services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at Greenwood Funeral Home in San Diego.  There will be a church service later in the month in San Diego.
 

Lorraine Margaret Jensen, 92, of Hendersonville [North Carolina] died Wednesday, April 1, 2009, at her home.
     She was born in Michigan City, Ind., to the late Terrell Bratton and Charlotte Kirchberg Bratton. She was preceded in death by her husband, Sven Jensen. She lived in Henderson County for 20 years. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Ted, and his wife, Jewel Bratton; and a sister, Eleanor Eisbrenner.
     She is survived by a son, Vern and Hilde Jensen of Hendersonville; a daughter, Elaine and Haynes Woolcott of Hendersonville; nieces and nephews, Ron, Tom and Vicki Neuman of Michigan; and cousins, Lorraine and Eleanor of Dubuque, Iowa.
     Memorials may be sent to Four Seasons Hospice and Pallative Care, 571 S. Allen Road, Flat Rock, NC 28731.

NOTE:  Lorraine was a former Hartford resident.  Sven and Lorraine purchased The Bookstore in Hartford during the 1950s-60s. Her son, Vern, graduated in 1958 and daughter, Elaine, graduated in 1953 from Hartford High School. 
 

Anita Lou Hambleton, 54, of Lawrence disappeared on June 11, 2008 and was found March 28, 2009, and is with the Lord.
     Anita was born July 16, 1954, in Kalamazoo, to Erwin Leslie Froman and Barbara Louise Lazell, who preceded her in death. Anita married Todd Hambleton Feb. 24, 1996. Anita enjoyed her flower garden. She loved and worked with children 28 years in the AWANA Program at Hartford Federated Church. She loved helping others. The most important things in her life were her family and faith.
     In addition to her loving husband, Anita is survived by her son, Ron Burchfield; and grandson, Ronnie Burchfield; two brothers, Robert (Kathy) Froman of Kalamazoo and Grant (Barb) Froman of Pennsylvania; one sister, Peggy (Mike) Crummel of California; and many nieces and nephews.
     A memorial service celebrating her life will be held on Saturday, May 2, at 11 a.m., at Hartford Federated Church, with Pastor Tim Nyhuis officiating.

NOTE:  Anita attended Hartford High School, but moved to Marcellus MI to be with family and completed her Senior year at Marcellus High School.
 

Courier-Leader Newspaper
by Paul Parrod
Published on 4/6/2009  

Body of woman missing since June found near her Lawrence Township home

     A badly decomposed body found in Lawrence Township last Saturday afternoon has been identified through dental records as that of a Lawrence Township woman who was reported missing last summer, according to the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office.
     Van Buren County Sheriff Dale Gribler said that from an autopsy conducted in Lansing on Tuesday, dental records confirmed it was the body of Anita Lou Hambleton. An exact cause of death has not been determined.  Gribler said an anthropologist was expected to examine the remains, and investigators are waiting for the results from a toxicology report, which is expected to take eight to 12 weeks to complete.
     Gribler said the Sheriff's Office received a call around 1:50 p.m. from a Lawrence Township property owner in the 69000 block of 56th Street, saying he found what appeared to be a badly decomposed female body.  The property owner, who does not live at the site, was hunting for deer antlers (shedding), when he came upon the remains.
     Gribler said the area where the body was found was along a winding creek bottom and low-land in a heavily wooded area, southeast of Anita Hambleton's residence. Hambleton, 53, had been missing since June 11, 2008.  Gribler said foul play does not appear to be a factor at this time. The investigation is on-going.
     At the time of her disappearance from her residence, 69640 56th St., an extensive search of the property and adjoining areas was conducted by Sheriff's deputies and detectives, area fire department personnel and community volunteers, as well as Michigan State Police helicopters and K-9 tracking dogs from the Van Buren county Sheriff's Office and Michigan State Police.
     She was reported to have suffered from a bi-polar disorder and did not have medication with her on the day she was reported missing.
     The Michigan State Police Crime Lab in Grand Rapids assisted with the investigation.
 

Larry Lee Thomas, 56, of Hartford passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2009, at Kairos Dwelling in Kalamazoo. Larry was born on Aug. 24, 1952, in Kalamazoo. He was the son of Edward and Wilma (Trumbla) Thomas.
     Larry was a mason by trade, doing work on his own and also working for Ernie Daisy for a number of years. He enjoyed the outdoors as shown in his love of fishing, camping and being around his family and friends. Larry also served his country proudly in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War.
     Larry is survived by his daughter, Jessica (Ryan) Disterheft of Eau Claire; a son, Bradley Thomas of Niles; six grandchildren, Calvin, Rylee, Breean, Dominik, Toni and Kennidie. Larry is also survived by his parents, his significant other, Joni Olds of Hartford and her three sons; a brother, Glenn (Vera) Thomas and a sister, Trish (Roger) DeYoung, both of Kalamazoo.
     Larry was preceded in death by a brother, Gary Thomas, and a sister-in-law, Toni Williams. 
     Larry's family will welcome friends for a time of remembering Larry with pictures and fellowship from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 4, at the Hartford American Legion Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Larry's name may be made to the family. The Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford has been entrusted with the arrangements.
 
Mary Anne Collins - Hartford.  Mary Anne's life began Jan. 21, 1940, in Benton Harbor.   She has spent her lifetime in the area.  Mary Anne worked in health care as a home caretaker and enjoyed playing bingo and going to Blue Chip.  Her loving family includes: two daughters, Victoria Geno of Eau Claire and Denise Jackson of Hartford; six grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.
     Mary Anne died Monday, March 23, 2009, at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo.  Her husband Thomas and her parents Kenny and Ruby (Watts) Price preceded Mary Anne in death.
     Mary Anne has been cremated and there will be no funeral services.  Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet is assisting Mary Anne's family with arrangements.
 
Daniel Dallas Davis Jr., 99, of Hartford passed away Monday, March 23, 2009, at South Haven Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.
     Daniel was born June 23, 1909, in Logansport, Ind., the son of Daniel and Lola (Gifford) Davis Sr., both of whom preceded him in passing. Also preceding Daniel in passing are his wife of 74 years, Lucille on June 18, 2008, a daughter, Juanita Brumitt, a grandson, Jamie Brumitt, one sister, and nine brothers.
     Daniel retired from Superior Steel in 1974, after many years of loyal service. He loved roaming the outdoors, as he was an avid fisherman and hunter. He was a long time member of the Hartford United Methodist Church.
     Daniel is survived by a son, Rodney (Trudy) Davis of Stevensville; a daughter, Carolyn "Sue" Vance of Coloma; eight grandchildren, Bruce Brumitt, Randy Brumitt, Dawn Welty, Duane Vance, David Vance, Tammy Kibler, Bradley Davis and Greg Davis. He is also survived by a son-in-law, James Brumitt of Lawrence; and two sisters, Peggy Smith of St. Joseph and Dorothy Lewis of Illinois.
     The family will welcome friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 25, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service to honor his memory will commence at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 26, at the funeral home. The Rev. Ronald Hansen will serve as officiant. Burial will follow in North Shore Memory Gardens, Hagar Shores. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Daniel's name may be made to the Hartford United Methodist Church.
 
Frances Helen Curran, 100, of Niles, and formerly of Baldwin, Mich., passed away at Silverbrook Nursing Home in Niles on March 19, 2009.
     Frances was born on July 6, 1908, to the late William and Christina (Nothrduft) Palmer in Hartford. After high school, Frances wed the love of her life, Ervin J. Curran, at a ceremony in Niles on July 23, 1927.
     Frances was preceded in death by her husband, parents and siblings.
     Frances is survived by her children, Donald (Delores) Curran of Elkhart, Ind., and Carolyn (David) Shankland of Grants Pass, Ore.; several grandchildren; and other family members.
     In keeping with Frances’ wishes, she has been cremated and no services will take place. She will be interred at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens. Condolences, photos and memories may be left for the family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.
     Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Niles.
 
Vivalee Blackston, age 81, of Lawton, formerly of Hartford and Grand Junction, passed away Friday, March 13, 2009, at Bronson Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Lawton. 
     The family will meet friends after 10 a.m. Wednesday at the United Pentecostal Church, South Haven, where funeral services will be at 11 a.m. with Pastor Phillip Haner and Pastor Jimmy Blackston officiating. Interment will follow in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Arrangements by Bangor Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com. 
     Vivalee was born May 10, 1927, in Decatur, Ala., the daughter of Harry and Nora Gatlin. She had lived at Bronson Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for the past six years, Hartford for 15 years and Grand Junction before that. Vivalee enjoyed cooking, dancing and attending church, where she could hear her family singing. She enjoyed living at the Bronson Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, where she appreciated the love and care she was shown. 
     Surviving are four sons, Tommy Blackston of South Haven, Johnny Blackston of Coloma, Billy Blackston of Mishawaka, Ind., Larry Fay Blackston of Bangor; two daughters, Mary Pugh and Linda Smith, both of Hartford; 22 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Christine Watson of Florida.
     She was preceded in death by her husband, Coy, in 2002; and a son, Amos Junior Blackston, in 1993; and seven sisters.

 
Martin Rodriguez, 44, of Hartford passed away suddenly Saturday, March 7, 2009, in Coloma.
     Martin was born July 25, 1964, in Northport, Mich. He was the son of Saul and Maria (Aranda) Rodriguez, both of whom preceded him in passing. He formerly was employed at Hilltop Orchards in Lawrence for a number of years. Martin enjoyed cooking and baking and would lend a helping hand to anyone in need. After his sister Maria passed away at an early age, Martin raised her two children, Mary Hammond and Gary Schaffer, as though they were his own.
     Martin is survived by his brothers and sisters, Hector Rodriguez of Mexico, Daniel (Gloria) Rodriguez, David (Theresa) Rodriguez, Adam (Juana) Rodriguez and Homero (Yolanda) Rodriguez, all of Hartford, Angelita (Julio) Ledesma of San Antonio, Texas, Adela Rodriguez of Hartford, Rosa (Luis) Zapata of Lawrence, Aurora Rodriguez of Coloma, Oralia (Antonio) Robles of Lawrence, Beatrice (Manuel) DeLaRosa of Hartford and Erminia (Randy) DeLong of East Leroy.
     Besides his parents and his sister, Martin was preceded in death a brother, Jose Rodriguez.
     The family will welcome friends from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 10, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Hartford. Mass of Christian Burial will commence at 12 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11, at the church. Father Fabio Garzon will be the celebrant. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Martin's name may be made to the family. The Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, has been entrusted with the arrangements.

 
James R. Flores-Gorsline, 54, of Hartford, passed away suddenly on Friday, March 6, 2009, at his home.
     James was born Oct. 12, 1954, in Pontiac, Mich., the son of Richard and Alice (Pace) Gorsline. After high school, he traveled for many years with Link Entertainment, made a career as an over-the-road truck driver and also was a mechanic at Peacock Ridge Golf Course. James loved playing golf, bowling, card games of all kinds and watching football.
     James is survived by a daughter, Jamie (Chester) Simmons of Lakeland, Fla.; a son, James Richard Flores of Hartford; and four grandchildren — Michael, Zack, Matthew and Katie. He is also survived by his mother,  Alice Gorsline of Bangor; nine brothers and sisters —  Diane (Matt) Collins of Frostproof, Fla., Theresa (Roger) Stielen of Tucson, Ariz., Robert Flores of Lake Alfred, Fla., Joyce (Albert) Genereaux of Hartford, Robin Gorsline of Marcellus, Martha (Ismael) Maldondo of Hartford and Mary (Jimmy) Hayes of Bangor; numerous nieces and nephews; and a very special friend, Paula Pool of Coloma.
     James was preceded in death by his father, Richard, in 1983.

     The family will welcome friends on Tuesday, March 10,  from 6 p.m. until the time of service at 7 p.m. at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford. Pastor Matt Collins will serve as officiant. As to James’ wishes, cremation will follow the service. In lieu of flowers,  memorials in James’ name may be made to the family.
 
Mary Adeline Rose, 80, of Hartford, passed away surrounded by her loving family Friday, Feb. 27, 2009, at Bronson Methodist Hospital, Kalamazoo.
     Mary was born Dec. 24, 1928, in South Haven, the daughter of Henry and Josephine (Welling) Groth. Mary was a 1947 graduate of Hartford High School. Her life revolved around her family. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother.
     Mary and her husband, Wayne, were founding and active members of the Hartford Old Engine and Tractor Club. She enjoyed feeding all the wildlife that wandered into their backyard and traveling with her husband.
     Mary is survived by her husband, Wayne, whom she married June 21, 1947; two daughters - Judith (David) Rainey of Bangor and Susan Rose of Hartford; two granddaughters, Amanda (Gabe) Malmstrom and Jenny (Jason) Elston; and two grandsons, Andrew Yirchott and Adam Unrath.
     Mary was preceded in passing by her parents; three brothers - Henry Groth, Kenneth Groth and Norbert Groth; and a sister, Rita Everhart Moyle.
The family will welcome friends from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday, March 1, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service to honor her memory will commence at 11 a.m., Monday, March 2, at the funeral home. She will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Memorial donations in Mary's name may be made to the Ronald McDonald House of Detroit.
 

Betty Jean Sumners went to be with the Lord on Sunday, February 22, 2009, from complications related to cancer. She was 69 years old. She was born May 30, 1939, to the late Cecil E. and Lura M. Stair.
     Betty is survived by her three children, Tina (Mark) Rendel, Douglas Parker, and Steven (Angela) Sumners; and her four grandchildren, Shannon Parker, Ty Parker, Faith Sumners, and Lucas Sumners.
     The visitation will be held Thursday, February 26 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Calvin Funeral Home at 8 E. Main Street, Hartford. The funeral service will be held Friday, February 27 at 10:00 AM and officiated by Pastor Timothy R. Smith.
     In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network on line at www.pancan.org or by phone, toll free at (877) 272-6226.

Betty was a 1957 Hartford High School graduate
.
 

Linda Kay (Jones) Klackle-Aubill, 59, of Hartford, passed away Sunday, February 22, 2009 at Lakeland Hospital, St. Joseph, after a long illness.  According to her wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at Living Word Church of God, Coloma on Saturday, February 28, 2009 at 4:00 pm. 
     Linda is survived by her loving husband, John Aubill, her two daughters- Elisabeth (Eric) Klackle Hallgren, of Hartford, Jennifer (Bruce) Klackle Cantrell, of Clarksville, Tennessee, two step-daughters- Laura and Stephanie Aubill of Portsmouth, Ohio, three grandchildren-Matthew and Mariel Hallgren and Grace Cantrell, one sister- Carolyn Newberry of Fayetteville North Carolina and her sister-in-law Candi Jones Boersma of Riverside, Michigan.  She was preceded in death by her parents Elmo and Eloise Jones and her brother Larry Jones. 
     Linda was employed during her lifetime by several area businesses:  Musselman’s, Van Buren State Bank, Vail Rubber and All Phase Electric. 
     Linda loved animals, crocheting and attending church when she was able.  Linda will always be remembered for her quirky sense of humor and her awesome potato salad. 
 

Geraldine 'Jerri' Varnau, 81, formerly of Hartford and Stevensville, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, Feb. 20, 2009 at Woodland Terrace, Bridgman.
     Geraldine was born March 15, 1927, in Palmetto, Fla., the daughter of Francis and Maidee (Rae) Edwards, both of whom precede her in passing.  Also preceding her in passing was her husband, Albert Varnau Jr., on March 6, 2006, and her sister, Dorothy Jane Council
     Geraldine married Albert William Varnau on Nov. 6, 1948, in St. Joseph.  Together, Albert and Geraldine owned and operated their farm from 1948 to 1970 [in Hartford Township].  They were members of the Van Buren County Farm Bureau and the Hartford Federated Church.  Geraldine was currently a member of First Baptist Church, St. Joseph.  Geraldine was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and a loving aunt to many nieces and nephews.
     Geraldine is survived by:  her children - Deborah (Randy) Cuthbert of Cassopolis, Bruce Varnau of Benton Harbor, Janis (Charlie) Jaynes of Mattoon, ILL., and Paula (Frank) Picone of St. Joseph, and her grandchildren - Benjamin (Rachel) Cuthbert, Kathryn Cuthbert, Jessica Cuthbert and Madison Picone.
     The family will welcome friends from 11 a.m. to noon on Tuesday, Feb 24, at Hartford Federated Church, where the service to honor her memory will take place at noon  Pastor Timothy Nyhuis of Hartford Federated Church and Pastor Marlo Fritzke of First Baptist Church of St. Joseph will officiate. As per Geraldine's wishes, cremation will follow the service.  She will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery with a private family service at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made to Hospice at Home, St. Joseph.  The family has entrusted Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with arrangements.

    


Henry DeRouck
, age 77, passed away February 19, 2009.  He lived in Crestwood KY.

Henry was a 1949 Hartford High School graduate.

Donald Lee Curtis, Watervliet, was born in Coloma on April 19, 1936, to Lee and Doris (Darrough) Curtis.  He married Donna (Gillard) on April 10, 1964, and they have two children Michael (June ) Curtis and Michele (Wiley) Payne, and five grandchildren, William, Wiley, Rebecca, Sami and Brad. 
       Don graduated from Watervliet High School in 1954.  He worked for Twin Cities Chevrolet, Schroeder Motors, Bridges Garage and Signal Delivery until he retired in 1988.  Donald also operated a garage in Hartford.  Don was a fireman for the Watervliet Fire Department for 37 years were he held several positions. Don proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1959 until August of 1965, his tour took him to Germany. 
     In his spare time Don enjoyed his family, Paw Paw Lake for it's beauty and racing boats, hunting and fishing.
     Don died Sunday, Feb. 15, 2009, at Countryside Nursing and Rehabilitation Community in South Haven.  Don's parents preceded him in death
     Friends may visit with Don's family Wednesday, Feb. 18, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet.  Funeral services will be celebrated Thursday, Feb. 19, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor David Haase officiating.  Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery in Watervliet.

 
Frances P. Linam, 73 of Eugene, Oregon passed away peacefully Wednesday, February 18, 2009 in Houston, Texas. She was born June 6, 1935 in Hartford, Michigan to Roy and Myrtle Clinard Phillips.
     “Franny” as her close friends and family called her was a long time member of Mid-City/Crescent City Baptist Church where she played the violin. She had tremendous love for her Faith Class at church. She was a devote Christian who enjoyed her daily bible studies and loved to travel, especially to Disney World. Frances was a devoted mother, wife and granny.
     She is preceded in death by her husband, Theodore Linam, Jr.; her parents, and 5 siblings. She is survived by her daughters, Susan Gaudin, Sandra Gussenhoven and Sharon Laughlin; sister, Eva P. Weathersby; grandchildren, Brittnay Todd, Meghan Pond, Jacob Laughlin, Nicholas Hebert, Anne Marie Gaudin and Austen Gussenhoven; and great grandchildren, Ethan Hebert and Elijah Todd.
     Frances’s family will welcome visitors tomorrow, Friday, February 20th at Palms Funeral Home from 9:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. with services starting at 11:00 a.m. A graveside service will be held at Angleton Cemetery at 1:00 p.m. after visitation.
 
On Feb. 5, 2009, at 4:12 p.m., William (Bill) Bromley, 94, of Hartford, entered the gates of heaven, walking, leaping, praising God and flew into the arms of his precious wife, Nina, to whom he had been married for over 68 years here on earth.
     His parents, Fred and Mabelle (Gold) Bromley; his sister, Lorna Herman; and several of his brothers - Merle, Gordon, Gayle, Elwin (Pete), Don and Ralph celebrated this reunion of love with them.
     He left here on earth, his children - Lance (Sheri) Bromley, and Debbie (Charlie) Benge;  his sister, Norma Cramer; his brothers, Fred (Meryl) Bromley and Richard (Sandra Cayan) Bromley; his grandchildren - Bryan (Diana) Bromley, Wendy (Gregg) Fitzgerald, Deanna Bromley, Doug Winn, Becky (Adrian) Clark and Richard Winn; three step-grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends, all with a tear in their eye but a song of joy in their hearts.
     Bill spent the first part of his life in Buchanan, where he attended school, lived and worked at Clark Equipment. He and his wife, Nina, moved to Loami, Ill., and he was employed by Allis Chalmers. Upon retirement he moved back to Buchanan where he resided until a few years ago when he moved to
Hartford.
     Bill was a man of faith, of fellowship, and of fun. He was a Mason for 64 years and a 50-year member of the A F & A M Lodge 1158 in Divernon, Ill. He loved God, had many dear friends, and was devoted to his family. You could always count on his help, his opinion, his love of life, and his great sense of humor. He had a great many little poems and ditties memorized that he shared with even his great-grandchildren.
     Per his wishes, he has been cremated. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Anyone wishing to make a donation in his memory may do so to the Watervliet FMC Food Pantry, 7734 Paw Paw Ave.,   Watervliet, MI 49098; the First United Methodist Church, Buchanan, MI 49107; or the Loami United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 462, Loami, IL 62661.

 
Bobby Berry.   After a valiant battle with cancer, Bobby Berry, 65, of Hartford won the war on cancer and passed peacefully with his family around him on Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2009.
     Bobby was born May 27, 1943, in Strawberry Plains, Tenn., the son of Raymond and Sissie (Williams) Berry, both of whom preceded him in passing.
He is survived by his wife, Ann (Sarters) Berry, whom he married Oct. 23, 1961, and enjoyed 47 years together with each other. He is also survived by a daughter, Leanne Berry-White and a son, Jeff Berry, both of Hartford; four grandsons, Michael and Jason Brow of Pendleton, Ky., Andrew Berry and Devin Berry, both of Hartford, along with many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Also surviving are brothers, Willie Berry of Mascot, Tenn., and James Berry of Evans, Ga.; sister, Harlon (Anna) Capps of Cullman, Ala.; brother/nephew, Ron McCall of Sullivan, Mo.; and his dog friend and buddy, Goldberg.
     Bob worked for many years at the Watervliet Paper Company. In his younger years, he enjoyed fishing and hunting with his friends. In his later years, he liked to listen to his beloved Cubs on the radio with Ron and Pat. He was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather, who was always ready to help and listen to his friends and family. He will be missed forever by his family, but we know he resides in Heaven.
     The Berry family will meet and welcome friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, to remember and rejoice the life of Mr. Bobby Berry.
 
Margaret Ann "Peggy" Benham, 85, of Hartford, passed away Monday, Feb. 2, 2009, at the University of Michigan Hospital, Ann Arbor.
     Peggy, as she was known by all who knew her, was born Dec. 18, 1923, in Hartford, the daughter of George and Florence (Kime) Olds Jr., both of whom preceded her in passing.
     Peggy was also preceded in passing by her first husband, Paul E. Stowell; her second husband, Henry Benham; son, Thomas Stowell; brother, Arthur D. Olds; and a sister, Betty L. Olds.
     Peggy was very active in her church community, where she was a member of the choir and worked in the nursery for years at the Hartford Federated Church. She loved cats, photography, shopping, crafts of all sorts and watching TV, especially her favorite shows, Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy.
     Peggy is survived by three sons, Jeffrey (Linda K.) Benham of Hartford, J. Kevin (Linda E.) Benham of Lawrence and Craig Benham of Central City, Ky., a daughter-in-law, Judith Stowell of Coloma; grandchildren, Bret Benham, Tracy Benham, Paul Stowell, Kristofer Benham, Justin Benham and Heather Herrington; 10 great-grandchildren; a sister, Helen Richter of Hartford; and a brother, George (Barbara) Olds of Kalamazoo.
     The family will welcome friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, at the Hartford Federated Church. The service to honor her memory will take place at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 6, at the church. Pastor Timothy Nyhuis will officiate. She will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations in Peggy's name be made to the Hartford Federated Church. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford with handling the arrangements.

 

NOTE:  Peggy was a 1941 Hartford High School graduate.
 
Nancy Oakes Kass, 64, a former resident of Hartford, passed away February 2, 2009 in California.  Nancy was a 1962 Hartford High School Graduate.
Catherine Fern Davis Fuller Briggs, 87 of Hartford, passed away Friday, Jan. 30, 2009 at her home.
     Catherine was born Sept. 25, 1921, in White Oak, the daughter of Burch and Lila (Moon) Davis, both of whom preceded her in passing.  Also preceding Catherine in passing was her first husband, Allie Fuller, her second husband, Stanley Briggs, a daughter, Betty Heffington, a son, Harold Fuller, three brothers and a sister.
     Catherine was a loving mother, who worked extremely hard to raise her family. That hard work was shown by the many places she worked, such as Duffy Motts in Hartford, the Gifford Wreath Factory, V.M. Corporation of Benton Harbor, the Hartford Fruit Exchange and Burnette Foods in Keeler.
     Catherine is survived by five children - Gerald Fuller, Harry (Elizabeth) Fuller and Jackie (Gary) Heffington, all of Hartford, Thomas (Cathy) Fuller of Watervliet and David Fuller of Hartford; 13 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; two stepsons, John (Patsy) Briggs of Coloma and Allen (Shirley) Briggs of Bangor; and a son-in-law, Gene Heffington.
     The family welcomed friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 3, at the Full Gospel Assembly Church, Hartford. The service to honor her memory was held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4, at the church. Pastors Lonnie and Shannon Truelove officiated. She was laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Memorial donations in Catherine's name may be made to Hospice at Home. The family entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangements.
 
Jo Anna Jones, 83, of Lawrence, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2009, at Kairos Dwelling, Kalamazoo.
     Jo Anna was born Aug. 17, 1925, in Rogersville, Tenn., the daughter of Eldridge and Fannie (Kyle) Payne, both of whom precede her in passing. Also preceding her in passing were her husband, William on April 24, 1984; a sister, Jennie Mae Kincaid; and two brothers, Robert Clifton Payne and Eldridge Jefferson Payne II.
     Jo Anna worked as a secretary for Du Well's in Hartford for many years, before moving on to the Senior Nutrition Services, where she worked as a site manager until her retirement.
     Jo Anna is survived by a daughter, Debora Jones; a granddaughter, Michelle (Demetrius Johnson) Buchanan of Mattawan; a great grandson, Byron Johnson of Mattawan; and three sisters - Katherine Hoyle and Mollie Ruth Pope, both of Rogersville, Tenn., and Ethel Marie (Phillip) Rogers of Dayton, Ohio.
     The family will welcome friends from noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 3, at the Leonard Funeral Home, Lawrence, where the service to honor her memory will commence at 1 p.m. The Rev. Darwin Johnson of the Emmanuel Community Church of South Haven will officiate. She will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Memorial donations in Jo Anna's name may be made to Kairos Dwelling or to the American Cancer Society Relay for Life.
 
John Weaver-Hudson was born on Aug. 10, 1958, in Detroit to Louis Hudson and his wife, Kathleen (nee Weaver). He was adopted into the family of God by the washing of holy baptism on Dec. 10, 1969.
     John was an avid student all of his life. He attended elementary and secondary schools in Oak Park and Birmingham. He received a B.A. in German and Religion from Oberlin College in 1979, an M. Div. from the seminary program at Earlham School of Religion in Richmond, Ind., in 1984, an M.A. in classical languages from Loyola University in 1996 and a Doctor of Theology Degree from the University of Zululand in South Africa in 2008.
     After his graduation from the seminary in 1984, he served as Pastor at UCC Congregational and Baptist churches in Ohio and Illinois. For confessional reasons, he applied for and was accepted by colloquy into the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod in 2001. As part of the colloquy process, he attended a semester at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in Mequon, Wis. and also served as vicar/pastoral assistant at Salem Evangelical Lutheran Church in Milwaukee, Wis., and at St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Livonia. In 2002, the Lord called him to serve as pastor of Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hartford, where he served faithfully for the rest of his days.
     On Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2009, the Lord in his wisdom and love took the soul of Pastor Weaver-Hudson from this vale of tears to himself in heaven. He is survived by his parents. His time on earth was 50 years, 5 months and 17 days.
     The Christian funeral service to honor Pastor Weaver-Hudson's life will take place at 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 2, at the Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church, 205 Bennett Avenue, Hartford. Pastor Paul S. Naumann will serve as officiant. His remains will be interred at Grandlawn Cemetery in Detroit, where they wait for the sure and certain resurrection to eternal life in Christ.
     In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in John's name be made to the Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church. The family has entrusted the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, with handling the arrangements.

Pastor dies in I-94 car crash

Pastor remembered as friendly,
knowledgeable on church history
By ANDREW LERSTEN
H-P South Haven Bureau

HARTFORD - A Hartford church lost its spiritual leader in a car crash Tuesday.

Rev. John Weaver-Hudson, 50, of Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church died in what police believe was a one-car crash on westbound Interstate 94.
     The car was found flipped over in the median of I-94, near the Hartford exit, shortly before 5 a.m., state police from the Paw Paw post reported.
     "There were some slippery spots this morning," Sgt. Russ Ammon said. "There could have been some patches of black ice (causing a slide-off). I just don't know."
     Police found Weaver-Hudson strapped in with a seat belt inside the upside-down car. He wasn't breathing and could not be resuscitated, Ammon said.
     Weaver-Hudson, who was single, had been pastor at Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church for at least eight years, said church Elder Bob Weber.
     "He preached The Word very well and from a very conservative viewpoint," Weber said. "He was very good on the history of the church. He was a very knowledgeable man."
     Next-door neighbor Ron Ward said, "He was friendly. When we saw him, he was very cordial. He was pretty reserved. I imagine he was dedicated to his church work."
     State police are asking for anyone who may have witnessed the crash to call them at the Paw Paw post, 657-5551.
     Funeral arrangements are being handled by Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford.

 

James Gary Peterson, "Jim," 70, of Hartford passed away Sunday, Jan. 25, 2009, at his home surrounded by his family.
     According to his wishes, Jim has been cremated. The family is holding a memorial service on Friday, Jan. 30, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford, where a eulogy will be read at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Jim's name be made to the South Haven Chapter of Hospice at Home.
     Jim was born Aug. 5, 1938, in Grayling, Mich., the son of Johannes and Jennie (Small) Peterson. Jim was an independent contractor in the Hartford area for more than 20 years.
     Surviving are his children, Collene Rowe of Hartford, Kelly (Anthony) Norris of Indiana, Lisa (Tim) Summerhill of Hartford and Steven (Jennifer) Peterson of Berrien Springs. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Eric, Anna, Casey, Chantel, Jimmy, Angie, Tim, Jillian, Holly, Steven and MacKenzie; one great-granddaughter, Savannah; numerous brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and a special friend, Pete Johnson of Hartford.
     He was preceded in passing by his precious wife, Peggy; a son, Wesley; a grandson, Joey; his parents; a brother, Thomas Peterson; a sister, Arlene Porter; and three brothers-in-law, Keith Moore, James Waldron and Richard Carew.
 

Charles Moss Duncombe, known to most as Charlie or Chuck, passed away Saturday, January 24, 2009 in Houston, Texas.
     Charlie was a native Keelerite, born at home on September 27, 1927.  He was the firstborn son of two boys born to Grace Moss Duncombe and Charles McMillan Duncombe.  His family owned and ran the Duncombe Grocery Store, founded by his grandfather, Charles E. Duncombe, Sr., in Keeler.  Charlie lived all his childhood years in Keeler and graduated from nearby Hartford High School in 1944.
     Charlie was a Freemason and a member of the local lodge for his lifetime.  He was raised to 2nd degree Master Mason in 1949.  After high school, he attended Coyne Electrical Institute in Chicago.  Shortly afterward, he entered the Navy on January 4, 1946, just after World War II.  His training was done at Great Lakes, Illinois, and he was later stationed in Guam.  He rose to the rank of Electronic Technician’s Mate Third Class, and was honorably discharged October 29, 1947. 
     Charlie worked for several companies over his lifetime.  He worked for the Army Signal Corps until 1951, and then decided to open Duncombe’s Radio Shop in Keeler, where he worked until 1958.
     Doris Fullriede, a graduate of Watervliet High School, caught Charlie’s eye in 1954, and they married in 1955.  A few years later, he went to work for G.E. in Phoenix, Arizona and moved his family there.  After a few years, the family moved to Jacksonville, Florida, and Charlie later left G.E. to work for RCA in 1967.  The entrepreneurial bug hit him again in 1972, and he started Red Dot Mobile Home.  In 1974, Charlie went to work for Perry Oceanographics, where he helped to build a submarine from a Lotus body for the 1977 James Bond movie,
The Spy Who Loved Me.
     Charlie and his family made a final relocation to Houston, Texas in the spring of 1978, when he took a job with Martech.  Late in 1979, he worked for Brown and Root, working on a project building a subsea trencher.  His work at Brown and Root also took him to Holland and India.  He worked there until 1985.  Charlie later worked a few contract jobs with Compaq, Texas Micro Systems and Shell Oil, before permanently retiring in 1989. 
     Charlie enjoyed fishing in Michigan as a boy, and decided to build a waterfront home for retirement on the Trinity River, near Huntsville, Texas in 1990.  He lived there until his family began to notice that he was not quite himself around 2002.  Medical testing revealed that Charlie was struggling with Alzheimer Disease.  A few years later, he received more bad news that he was suffering from P.K.D., a degenerative kidney disease.  It was this disease, coupled with his age and heart troubles that ended his life after a brief period of intense health decline this winter.
     Charlie is survived by his wife of nearly fifty-four years, Doris, living in Houston, Texas; their two children: son, Stephen (Steve) Allan Duncombe, Sr. and his wife, Cindy, of League City, Texas; and daughter, Sheila Ann Duncombe Schlesener and her husband, Terry, of Houston, Texas; and his brother, Roger Duncombe and his wife JoAnne of Hartford, Michigan.  In addition to several nieces and nephews, Charlie is also survived by three grandsons:  Stephen Duncombe, Jr. and his wife Kelly, of League City, Texas; Jeff Duncombe and his wife Stacy, of Webster, Texas; and Justin Scantlan of Houston, Texas.  Charlie had three great-grandaughters:  Makenna Girouard Duncombe, Trinity Duncombe, and Kaelyn Duncombe.
     Charlie’s family, friends and co-workers gathered Saturday, January 31, 2009 at CyFair Funeral Home to hold a memorial for him.  His cremated remains will be interred at Keeler Cemetery.  Charlie had a good, full life.  He loved his family, and he was loved very much by them.  He was a happy man and did good to most all who knew him.  He will be missed. 
 

Asheville NC – Gail A. McCarthy, 67, passed away Monday, January 12, 2009, at JFK Solace Center.
    

Gail worked as a registered nurse for over 40 years and was a member of Basilica of St. Lawrence Catholic Church.
     Surviving are three sons, Daniel McCarthy and his wife, Emily, of Arden, Kevin McCarthy of Asheville, RJ McCarthy, of Asheville; and two grandchildren, Aidan and Caleb McCarthy.
     Asheville Area Alternative Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the family. (828) 258-8274.


NOTE: 
Gail was a 1959 graduate of Hartford High School, Hartford Michigan and attended school in Hartford since Kindergarten.    Her father, Al, owned Al’s Meat Market in Hartford and also operated Al’s cab during the 1950s, early 1960s.
     Gail was preceded in death by her parents, Al, in 1969, and Lois Guerin, and her son, Brian, in 2003.
 

Richard William Leonard, 47 of Lawrence, passed away suddenly on Thursday, January 9, 2009 at his home.
     Rick, as he was known by most everyone, was born October 17, 1961 in Paw Paw, the son of Dale and Yvonne (Goodrich) Leonard. He was a very loving husband and father, who loved his Lord. Rick was a member of the Rising Sun Lodge 119 F & AM in Lawrence, was an avid deer hunter, enjoyed being in the woods and was a diehard Detroit Tiger fan.
     Rick married the former Sherry Ekstrom on May 23, 1981 and she survives, along with twins, Tony Leonard of Portage and Abby Leonard of Lawrence and a son, Billy Leonard of Lawrence. Rick is also survived by his father, Dale Leonard of Hartford and a sister, Cindy (Jerry) Birmele of Hartford. Rick was preceded in passing by his mother, Yvonne Leonard on March 23, 2005 and a sister, Penny Patterson on July 1, 2006.
     The family will welcome friends from 6 to 8 PM, Monday, January 12, with Masonic Rites being held at 7 PM, at the Calvin Funeral Home, Hartford. The service to honor Rick's memory will be held at 11 AM Tuesday, January 13 at the funeral home. Pastor Timothy Nyhuis of the Hartford Federated Church will be the officiant. Rick will be laid to rest in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hartford. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations in Rick's name be made to the Parkinson's Foundation.

NOTE:  Rick was a 1979 Hartford High School graduate. 
 

Woodrow Wilson Stoddard, 92, of Hemet, died Jan. 6, 2009, at Meadowbrook Convalescent Hospital in Hemet. Services were Jan. 8 at Miller-Jones Mortuary in Hemet. Burial was in Rose Hills Memorial Park in Whittier.
     Mr. Stoddard was born in Michigan.  He worked as a tool and dye maker for Federal Mogul.
     He is survived by his wife of almost 71 years, Lillian; sons, Terry, of Modesto, and Ron, of Victorville; daughter, Janet Whalen of San Jacinto; 14 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren.

NOTE:  Woodrow was born Nov 9, 1916 in Hartford (Shafer Lake) MI and was the son of
Daniel and Jennie Stoddard. Click here to read a note Woodrow left in the Recollections and Jottings section of the History of Hartford website.

Clarence E. Wolfe, 60, beloved husband and father, went to be with his Lord Jesus Christ on January 2, 2009.  Memorial service will be at 7 p.m. on Friday, January 9, 2009, at Church of the Harvest, 14841 S. Blackbob, Olathe, Kan.  A visitation will be one hour prior to the services at 6 p.m.
    Clarence was born in Benton Harbor, Mich., where he enlisted in the Navy and served during the Vietnam conflict.  After leaving the Navy, Clarence worked for Potlatch Corp. in both Michigan and Pennsylvania, moving to the Kansas City area in 1980 to work for Aspen Products as plant manager.  Since 1997, he has worked for Sunshine Biscuit division of Kellogg.
    He loved being outdoors, working in the garden, camping, fishing and fixing anything he could take apart and put back together.
He is survived by his wife, Anita of the home, and Son Andy Wolfe of Lenexa, Kan., Sisters Verna Smith, Janice Yanez, and Brother Jim Wolfe all of Mich.  He is loved and missed by his step-children Wendy Smith, Melanie Payne, Scot Robinson and Teri Robinson of Michigan; grandchildren Nathan, Alex, and Corey Payne.  His gentle, loving spirit will be truly missed in our lives. 
In Lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Mid-America Chapter, PO Box 19028, Kansas City, MO 64114.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.amosfamily.com.  (Arr.:  The Amos Family Chapel of Shawnee, 913-631-5566.)

Note:  Ed, as known by his fellow classmates, was a 1966 Hartford High School graduate.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Elaine Wolfe.
 

Felix A. Racette, 82, of Lawton, formerly of Paw Paw, passed away Friday afternoon, Jan. 2, 2009, at White Oaks in Lawton.
     Fil was born May 30, 1926, in Paw Paw, the son of Felix A. and Kathryn (More) Racette. Fil was class president and a graduate of Paw Paw High School, class of 1944. He enlisted in the U.S Army Air Corps, where he served as the youngest sergeant-major in the European Theater. After graduation from Michigan State University in 1949 with a degree in journalism, he went to work for both the Hartford Day Spring and the Battle Creek Enquirer before becoming state editor for the Kalamazoo Gazette. In 1957, he purchased The Courier-Northerner, since incorporated as the Vineyard Press. He had been editor of The Courier-Leader until his retirement in 2006.
     He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, honorary member of the Paw Paw Fire Department, named best columnist in Michigan in 1974 by the Michigan Press Association, for which he served as president in 1978; served as Secretary-Treasurer of the Michigan Press Foundation, served on the Van Buren Intermediate School Board for six years, and was chairman of the Building Study Committee for former Paw Paw High School and Black River Schools. In 1999, Fil was inducted into the Paw Paw High School Hall of Fame.
     On June 19, 1949, Fil was united in marriage to Louise Woodman, who preceded him in death on Oct. 27, 1981. He was also preceded in death by his parents; an infant son, Albert; brother-in-law, Warren Sundstrand; and a son-in-law, Tony Griffin.
     Surviving are four children - Kathryn Racette (Thomas McLewee) of Chester Springs, Pa., Robin Griffin of Mattawan, Steven (Karen) Racette of Lawton and Mindy (Patrick) Brennan of Paw Paw; grandchildren - Chloe McLewee, Kallie Griffin, Ashley (Bob) Moore, Melissa (Alex) Stull, and Sean, Phelan, Trey, Ryan and Truman Brennan; sister, Patsy Sundstrand of Kalamazoo; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
     Family will receive friends Wednesday from 2 to 4 and from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Adams Funeral Home, Paw Paw. Funeral services will be held Thursday at 11 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, Paw Paw, with the Rev. Tom Abbott officiating. Interment will follow in Prospect Hill Cemetery, Paw Paw, with military honors. Memorial contributions may be made to the Paw Paw Educational Fund for a scholarship or to Hospice of Southwest Michigan. Share a memory or condolence online at: www.timeformemory.com/adams.
 
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