David Michael Bird, 78, of rural Cement City, Mich., died Dec. 19, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. 

He was born in Tecumseh, Mich., on May 26, 1946, to Walter, Jr., and Margaret (Dickerson) Bird. He attended and graduated from Tecumseh High School, and furthered his education by attaining a bachelor’s degree. David served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. 

 David worked as a tooling engineer, retiring from Textron in 2012. He was a great father and all-around good guy. He loved family gatherings and helping people in any way he could. There was almost nothing David couldn’t do. If he didn’t know how to do something, he would research the subject until he knew how to do it. In his free time, he loved family gatherings, golfing and wood carving.

David is survived by his wife Sue; son Charles (and Kristin) Marshall; eight grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; five living sisters; brother-in-law Roger Burgess; and sister-in-law Karen Lockwood.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by son Tom Barron; brother-in-law Keith Lockwood; and sister-in-law Gail Burgess.

Cremation will take place and there will be no services at this time. Inurnment of remains will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci. 

 Memorial donations are suggested to the American Cancer Society. 

The Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci assisted with arrangements.

Larry M. Sines, 76, formerly of Morenci, Mich., died Dec. 13, 2024, at Flower Hospital in Toledo.

Larry was born June 19, 1948, to Lottie Swartzendruber, in Hudson, Mich. He married Beverly Lantz in 1994, and she preceded him in death in 2020. Larry often took fishing trips to Canada, and loved collecting antiques with Beverly. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church of Morenci. His last year was spent at Embassy of Swanton Nursing Home, where he made many special friends.

Larry owned several businesses throughout his life, including the “Maid For You” cleaning service that he owned with Beverly in Morenci.

He is survived by daughter Cristy (and Dave) Needham of Traverse City, Mich.; son Michael (and Pamela) Sines of Leesburg, Va.; and daughter Wendy (and Rodney) Kessler of Fayette, Ohio; grandchildren Alexa, Ben, Charley and Travis; and two great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, Larry was preceded in death by his mother, Lottie; sister, Diane; and grandson, Carson.

No services are planned and memorial contributions are suggested to the Morenci Parks and Recreation Department. 

The Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home of Wauseon assisted the family.

David W. Vehmeier, 72, of Morenci, Mich., died Dec. 12, 2024, at ProMedica Charles and Virginia Hickman Hospital in Adrian, Mich.

He was born Sept. 1, 1952, in Adrian to Lewis and Phyllis (Gunter) Vehmeier. David attended and graduated from Sand Creek High School.  Throughout his life, he worked for Morenci Rubber Products, Hydro Aluminum - Bohn, Inc., and eventually retired from Inteva. In May of 1977, he married Robin Ferguson, and she preceded him in death Dec. 22, 2021.

David loved photography. He loved to take and edit photos of lighthouses, car shows, hot air balloon festivals, and the aurora borealis. He would even spend countless nights at Lake Hudson taking night photos. The other love of his life was his dog, Aurora. The two of them would take a walk every morning together.

David is survived by children Nick and Stacey Vehmeier, and a sister, Janet Mohr.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife.

Cremation will take place and graveside services will be planned at a later date in Oak Grove Cemetery.

Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee.

Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci is assisting the family with arrangements.

Shirley J. (Cox) Paison, 92, died Dec. 6, 2024, the day of her and Ken’s 72nd wedding anniversary, at Browning Masonic Community in Waterville, Ohio. 

She was born June 13, 1932, in Parma, Ohio, to Dayton M. and Perley (Cornell) Cox. She married her best friend, Kenneth, on Dec. 6, 1952, at Morenci United Methodist Church.  They both had a great love for family, small town life, dancing, fishing, and most of all traveling to see family.  Together, they were members of Fayette United Methodist Church for nearly 70 years.

Over the years, Shirley was active in the Order of Eastern Star, becoming a life member and holding a number of offices in Michigan and Ohio.  She was a past Worthy Matron of Excelsior #68 and Fairfield Chapter #224, and held dual membership with the Wauseon (Ohio) Chapter #68.  She was a member of the Fayette Fire Belles for more than 25 years.

Shirley loved to volunteer in any way she could while raising four children and working full time, from Meals on Wheels to the election board.  Her working career spanned from Piddock Ford and Peters Stamping, both in Fayette, and Sauder Village in Archbold.  But her most loved jobs were taking care of her family and volunteering at church.

She is survived by children Ken, Portia (and Roger) Garza, Janet (and Jim) Payton, and Michele (and Bruce) Short; 11 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Kenneth; daughter-in-law Jackie Paison; brother Dayton Cox; and sister Joyce Miller.

Memorial services are scheduled at 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, at Fayette United Methodist Church, with visitation beginning at 2 p.m. Interment will be at a later date in Pleasant View Union Cemetery, Fayette.

Memorial donations are suggested to Browning Masonic Community of Waterville, 8883 Browning Drive, Waterville, OH 43566.

Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette is assisting the family with arrangements.  

John Richard Winzeler, 92, of rural Fayette, Ohio, died Nov. 30, 2024.

John was born Oct. 21, 1932, in Wauseon, Ohio, to John Peter and Florence (Biddle) Winzeler. He was a fifth generation American from Switzerland.   After the death of his father in 1937, his mother married Albert Wagner. 

John attended Franklin and Wauseon Elementary schools.  He was active in 4-H and FFA, graduating from Archbold High School in 1950 as the senior class president. John farmed in Franklin Township the following two summers, then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in late 1951.

John was a gunner on B-26 light bombers in the Korean conflict.  He and his air crew were awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroic actions against invading Chinese and North Korean forces. John was also awarded the Air Medal (with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters) and numerous meritorious citations. He completed 37 combat missions over Korea. Staff Sergeant Winzeler continued serving at Smith Hill, Kansas, (B-29 bomber) and completed military service at Lockbourne AFB, Columbus, Ohio, (KC 97 refueler) in 1955.  

John graduated from Ohio State University in 1958. Employed as a teacher and coach, he became the youngest principal in the Dayton public school system. As a physical education teacher and principal in Dayton, he organized unique and challenging adventures for his students. He initiated President Kennedy’s Head Start program and developed better ways to teach students at every opportunity. In 1966, he returned to northwest Ohio as the Fulton County Elementary Supervisor.

In late 1968, John began his more than 45 years of service as an administrator in the Fayette school system. John encouraged his teachers and students to engage in reading for pleasure and knowledge. His students fondly recall the annual Newberry Junior Great Books reading competitions. Further, he personally taught many math classes and was constantly organizing gymnasium, outdoor recess and after-school athletic competitions. John believed in discipline in the school classroom and many of his students remember his enthusiastic techniques for improvement.

As a coach of basketball and baseball, John emphasized fundamentals and fitness for his countless boys and girls athletic teams. John was an avid softball player and umpire, and he won many county and area horseshoe competitions.  

He developed a passion for woodworking, collecting art, reading poetry and collecting Irish and Americana music. John’s winter fireplace required hours of chainsaw time in the woods, resulting in months of enjoyment where he could read, view television and occasionally share thoughts of life. His woodshop and garden always resulted in unique creations. His embellished story telling, watching grandchildrens’ exploits and listening to WJR broadcasts rounded out his entertainment.   

On June 6, 1954, John married Eunice J. Traut and they recently celebrated 70 years of marriage. They enjoyed several extended visits to New York City, attending many Broadway theatrical productions. Together they traveled to many European and Asian countries for pleasure and adventure. John made international trips to China and Poland as a representative of the Heifer International global livestock development program.

John lived a life of service with 20 years on the County Board for the Mentally Handicapped, 12 years with QUADCO, 20 years on the Republican Party Central Committee, and numerous years as a Red Cross blood donor, Senior Center driver, Habitat for Humanity selection committee and the Fulton County Crime Stopper committee. John was elected as Franklin Township clerk for nearly four decades.

He was selected Fayette Athletic Booster of the Year (2001), Fayette Citizen of the Year (2004) and was a member in both American Legion Post 143 (Fayette) and VFW Post 7424 (Wauseon).

He is survived by his wife Eunice and their children. John was preceded in death by his parents, step-brother George Wagner and sister Mary (Winzeler) Mungons

His decendant children are Jan (and Mark) Sundquist, Kim (and Marsha) Winzeler, Lin (and Lawson) Veasey and Joe (and Jamie) Winzeler; grandchildren   Trenna (and Frank) Seilheimer, Eric (and Naomi) Sundquist, Colleen (and John) Sarantakis, Casey (and Maggie) Winzeler,   Jackson (and Kaleigh) Veasey,  Elizabeth, Wyatt, Virginia and Laurellei Veasey,  Tyler, Austin and Aubree Winzeler; great- grandchildren Logan and Liam Sundquist, Quinn and Oliver Seilheimer, Kira and Anthony Sarantakis, Carter, Colby and Margo Winzeler, and Anne Merritt Veasey.

Visitation is planned from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Fayette. A memorial service  presided by Rev. Pamela Graf Short will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Private burial with military honors will take place in Smith Cemetery in Franklin Township.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Habitat for Humanity of Fulton County or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Melissa Yatzek, 43, of Hudson, Mich., a loving mother and wife, was called to be with our Lord on Nov. 28, 2024, under the care of Hospice of Lenawee in Adrian, Mich.

Melissa was born Jan. 26, 1981. She graduated from Morenci Area Schools in 1999. Melissa was so grateful to have such caring friends that were there for her throughout her high school years and her life. 

Melissa married Joel Yatzek in 2007 at which time they started their family. At the time of her passing, she and Joel have two loving children, Gavin Yatzek and Alivia Yatzek. They have lived in Hudson, Mich., for the past 12 years. Melissa loved going to her children’s events and was happy to be a part of the Medina Church.

Melissa is survived by her husband Joel Yatzek; her children Gavin and Alivia Yatzek, her mother and step-father Colleen and Timothy Decker; her brother Brandon Hallett; her father- and mother-in-law Earl James Yatzek and Debra Yatzek.

She was preceded in death by her father Merrill Hallett.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be announced in the near future.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee in Adrian, Mich.

C. Edgar Keefer, 90, of Fayette, Ohio, died Nov. 26, 2024, at Fairlawn Haven Nursing Home in Archbold, Ohio.

He was born Oct. 21, 1934, in Wauseon, Ohio, to Ellis J. and Alice L. (Altman) Keefer. After graduating from Chesterfield High School in 1952, Edgar dedicated his life to farming.

On Sept. 11, 1954, Edgar married the love of his life, Janice Audrey Colon. They raised a family of three children and celebrated more than 64 wonderful years together before her passing on April 1, 2019.

In his free time, Edgar enjoyed camping, photography, and riding the motorcycle with his wife. Above all, Edgar loved spending time with his family, but especially at Christmas time.

Edgar is survived by children Kim (and Bob) Harmon, Karen (and Ken) Pfeifer, and Bartley (and Kay) Keefer; grandchildren Chris, Shane, Kyra, Katie, Lacey, Eric and Luke; 12 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents and wife, Janice, Edgar was preceded in death by a grandson, Daniel, and a sister, Jane.

A memorial service will be planned at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci.

Gerda Sonnenberg, 69, of Fayette,  Ohio, died Nov. 16, 2024, at ProMedica Toledo Hospital.

She was born Oct. 31, 1955, in Giessen, Germany. On Oct. 5, 1985, she married Michael Joe Sonnenberg in Giessen. He preceded her in death on March 23, 2023.

Gerda was a homemaker all her life. She loved to take care of her children and grandchildren and keep a meticulous home. Gerda was known as a very friendly person who would do anything she could for anyone.

She is survived by children Michael Rayburn, Diana (and Robert) Somerlott, and Angela Clark; grandchildren William Webster, Nicole Somerlott, Jacoby Clark, Dillian Somerlott and Kortney Somerlott; brothers Wolfgang and Eicke Stein; and sister Eva Stein.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter in infancy, Pamela Sonnenberg, and son-in-law Jacob Clark.

Cremation has taken place and there will be no services.

Memorial donations are suggested to the family for future consideration. The Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette is assisting the family with arrangements.

William A. Smith, 49, of Fayette, Ohio, died Nov. 10, 2024, at St. Vincent Medical Center in Toledo Ohio.

He was born Aug. 22, 1975, in Trenton, Mich., the son of Jackie, Sr., and Glenna (Grimm) Smith. On April 11, 2005, he married Laura Nine and she survives. 

William was employed by General Motors in Defiance, Ohio. He loved to play golf alongside his brother Andrew and his closest friends. William was a die-hard Detroit Lions fan and always watched the games with his closest family. He enjoyed playing World of Warcraft with his son and nephews. William loved going out on date night with his wife and vacationing with his children, which included Cedar Point and Great Wolf Lodge. William was known as a hard worker and enjoyed providing for his family.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by children Alexis (and Eli) Dickerson, Sadeze Shonk, Nathaniel Smith, Cameron Smith and Aubrey Smith; grandsons Karter Swirles and Liam Swirles; brothers James (and Jennifer) Smith and Andrew Smith; brother-in-law Jeff Johnson; nieces and nephews Cayla Smith, Trisha Bryan, Todd Bryan, Jr., James Smith, Jr., and Jacob Smith; and great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Dawn Johnson and brother Jackie Smith, Jr.

Funeral services will begin at noon Thursday, Nov. 14, at J. Gilbert Purse Funeral Home in Adrian, Mich., with Pastor Matthew SeGraves officiating. Burial will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery, Hudson, Mich. Visitation is planned from 11 a.m. Thursday until the time of service at the funeral home.

Clarence E. Pummell, 95, of Petersburg, Mich., died in his home Nov. 4, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. 

Born May 21, 1929, in Morenci, Mich., Clarence was the son of Clarence and Esther (Johnston) Pummell. He married Donna Mae Schultz on April 12, 1958, at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church and enjoyed 66 years of companionship.

Clarence is an army veteran and worked at Consumers Power (Energy) for 45 years, retiring in 1993 as a tree trimmer and lineman. He was a member of Zion Evangelical Church where he enjoyed worship and fellowship with his Zion family. He also enjoyed travel, spending time with family, attending his kids and grandkids events, working on the yard and the family farm in Morenci. He was an avid dart ball and croquet player.

Survivors include his wife of 66 years, Donna; sons David (and Gail) of Virginia, Bruce (and Cheryl) of Temperance, Mich.; Doug (and Andrea) Kalispell, Mont., grandchildren David, Emily (and Matt), Kristin (and Sean), Adam (and Hannah), Ben (and Kelsey), Tara (and Luke), Holly, Ryan; and great-grandchildren Skylar, Levi, Colt and Avery.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Harold, Phyllis, John and Doris.

Visitation is from 10 to  noon Thursday, Nov. 7, at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church of Petersburg. Funeral services will begin at noon with burial immediately following at Zion Lutheran Cemetery. Services will be officiated by Pastor David Vinciguerra.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Zion Lutheran Church Memorial Fund or Meals on Wheels.

Russell LeRoy Lockwood, 86, formerly of Waldron, Mich., died Nov. 3, 2024, at his home in Alvordton, Ohio, surrounded by loved ones and in the care of CHP Hospice.

He was born Sept. 17, 1938, in Morenci, Mich., the ninth of 12 children of Samuel and Luella (Spohr) Lockwood. Russell grew up in Waldron and was a member of the first class to graduate from its present-day school building in 1957. 

Russell married the love of his life, Carolyn D. Salisbury on March 22, 1959, at Frontier Methodist Church. Together they raised two daughters and have celebrated more than 65 years of companionship and memories. 

Russell was employed as a butcher for Dinner Bell Company in Archbold for 32 years until its closure. He then served a 20-year tenure at Sauder Woodworking. In addition to his full-time employment, Russell dedicated himself to his community as a volunteer for the Wright-Waldron Fire Department. A lover of the outdoors, he liked to hunt pheasant and trap muskrat. He was known to wear his heart on his sleeve, and he was never bashful to “tell it like it is.”

Surviving in addition to his wife, Carolyn, are daughters Fawn (and Richard) Kunkle and Tonya (and Don) Kunkle, both of Alvordton; brother Samuel Lockwood of Waldron; sisters Beverly (and Alvin) Weber of Hudson, Mich., and Karen (and Tom) Miller of Brooklyn, Mich.;  sisters-in-law Mary Alice Lockwood of Adrian, Mich., and Janice Lockwood of Hudson; grandchildren Trevor (and Patty) Kunkle, Skyler Branham, and George Kunkle; and great-granddaughter Paige Kunkle.

Preceding Russell in death were his parents; brothers Harold, Ken, Merle, Donald and Richard Lockwood; sisters Lucille Ferguson, Wilma Huff and Barbara Hassenzahl; and a sister-in-law Carolyn Lockwood.

Visitation is planned from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Fayette. Interment will be private in the Waldron Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to benefit the Frontier Methodist Church or CHP Hospice.

Renee Michele Pinkelman, 53, of Lyons, Ohio, died unexpectedly in her home Oct. 20, 2024.

Renee was born Feb. 11, 1971, in Toledo, Ohio, to David A. and Michele (Hart) Snyder. She was a 1989 graduate of Evergreen High School and earned an associate’s degree from Davis Community College.

Renee worked at Franklin Park Lincoln for more than 30 years as an accounts payable specialist, becoming a pivotal part of the business. She always enjoyed hanging out in the barn watching the Buckeyes, Tigers and Lions. She enjoyed gardening and was an excellent chef. Most of all, Renee loved watching her children play sports, and she never missed a game.

Renee was a loving mother and wife, who is survived by her husband of 34 years, Greg S. Pinkelman; son Teagen (and Brittney) Pinkelman; daughter Hannah Pinkelman; mother Michele Snyder; sisters Karen Fivecoat and Barb Anderson; mother-in-law Dianne Pinkelman; brother-in-law Brent Pinkelman; nieces Ashley (and Stan) Marshall and their four children and Sara; and nephews Jimmy and Drew.

She was preceded in death by her father David Snyder; father-in-law Jerry Pinkelman; brother-in-law David Fivecoat and sister-in-law Tammy Pinkelman.

Visitation is planned from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at Weigel Funeral Home in Metamora where services will begin at 1 p.m., with Deacon Denver Mossing officiating.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the donor’s choice.

Betty K. Fether, 80, of Fayette, Ohio, died Oct. 21, 2024.

Betty was born June 12, 1944, in Delta,  Ohio, the daughter of Robert and Nina (Gramling) Travis. Betty grew up in Delta, where she graduated from high school. She married Fayette native Gary G. Fether on Oct. 25, 1969. Together they raised two sons and celebrated nearly 55 years of happy memories as husband and wife before his recent passing on Oct. 17, 2024.

Betty worked at Globe Wernicke in Wauseon for many years, and later worked for Schlegel in West Unity. Betty took great pride in taking care of her home and family. She loved to garden, canning the crops as they came in, and worked alongside her husband raising cattle. A devout Christian, Betty was a member of Fayette Church of the Nazarene where she taught Sunday School and cleaned the church most of her life. She served as a camp counselor, delivered for Meals on Wheels, and volunteered for Hands of Grace, giving compassionate services to the elderly and disabled.

She is survived by sons Johnathan (and Cheryl) Fether and Terrell Fether; sisters Charlotte Jones, Joan (and Paul) Chamberlin, and Becky (and Les) Steingass.

In addition to her husband, Betty was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Kenton Travis; and sisters Mary Seagrave and Robin Gomez.

Funeral services were Oct. 22 at Fayette Church of the Nazarene, with Rev. Andy Reynard officiating. Interment followed in Pleasant View Union Cemetery, Fayette.

Memorial donations are suggested to Gideons International.

Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette  assisted with arrangements.

Gary G. Fether, 79, of Fayette, Ohio, died Oct. 17, 2024, at Fulton County Health Center.

Gary was born in Wauseon, Ohio, on July 24, 1945, to Bernard D. and Virge J. (Hochstetler) Fether. Gary graduated from Gorham-Fayette High School in 1963, and then attended Tri-State College in Angola, Ind., for one year. He then entered the United States Air Force in 1965, serving his training at Chanute AFB in Illinois for Air Force Aircraft Equipment Repair. During the Vietnam War, he served at U-Tapao base in Thailand. In 1969, he was honorably discharged from the Air Force and started a 40-year career at Chase Brass as a finish machine operator. It was also in 1969 he married the love of his life, Betty Travis, and she survives.

Gary was also a crop and cattle farmer, along with owning Fether Orchard. He was a member of the Fayette Church of the Nazarene, serving as a Sunday School teacher for many years. He was also a member of Gideons International. He spent many of his free hours studying prophecy. Gary was a family man, taking car of his mother the last 20 plus years of her life. He loved to take canoe fishing trips to Canada with his friends.

Surviving along with his wife, Betty, of nearly 55 years, are sons Johnathan (and Cheryl) and Terrell Fether; and sister Linda (and Darle) Baker.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Roger Fether.

Visitation is planned from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday, October 21, at Fayette Church of the Nazarene. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 22, also at the church, with Rev. Andy Reynard officiating. Interment will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery, Fayette.

Memorial donations are suggested to Gideons International.

Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette is assisting the family with arrangements.

Alva Lee Ballmer, 92, of Fayette, Ohio, died Oct. 18, 2024, at CHP Inpatient Hospice in Defiance, Ohio.

Alva was born Nov. 5, 1931, in Morenci, Mich., the third of four children of John and Velma (Schoonover) Ballmer. Alva lived his early life in the Munson area and graduated from Morenci schools in 1950. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1952 and proudly served his country for two years overseas during the Korean Conflict. He married Joan Marie Ely on New Years Day 1954. Together they raised five sons and enjoyed nearly 60 years as husband and wife before her death on Dec. 8, 2013.

In addition to being a carpenter by trade, Alva worked for the former Young Spring and Wire in Archbold, Ohio, until his retirement. A man of deep faith, Alva was devoted to his church, Fayette Church of the Nazarene. Through the church, he proudly gave of himself on multiple mission trips around the world, including visits to Honduras and Korea. In later years Alva enjoyed vegetable gardening as well as traveling on various bus tours with Joan. He is fondly remembered for his easy-going personality and his sociable nature, never meeting a stranger.

Surviving are five sons, Mark (and Jackie) Ballmer of Archbold, Ohio, Tim (and Cheryl) Ballmer of Fayette, David Ballmer (and Casey Champion) of Edon, Ohio, James (and Sonya) Ballmer of Wauseon, Ohio, and Michael (and Janna) Ballmer of Fayette; brother Ivan Ballmer of Bryan, Ohio; 10 grandchildren, Josh, Melissa, Lacey, Brittany, Sarah, Nathaniel, Brynn, Leora, Haley and Isaac; and 12 great-grandchildren, Dylan, Daxton, Merritt, Dempsy, Sophie, Wesley, Hazel, Hannah, Lauren, Jacob, Mora and Jacob.

In addition to his parents and wife, Alva was preceded in death by two siblings, Lois Masters and Verl Ballmer.

Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m.  Wednesday, Oct. 23, at Fayette Church of the Nazarene with Pastor Andy Reynard officiating. Burial will follow in the West Franklin Cemetery in Franklin Township. Visitation is planned at the church for one hour preceding the service.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Fayette Church of the Nazarene or CHP Hospice.

Arrangements have been made Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Fayette.

Robert Larry Wagner, 83, his wife, Aletta Mae (Arp) Wagner, 79, and their daughter Dorrene Lynn (Wagner) Roberts, 52, died Oct. 1, 2024, in Adrian, Mich., as the result of a traffic accident.

Robert was known for his serious demeanor, responsible nature, and passion which he balanced with a penchant for corny jokes. Robert graduated from Tama (Iowa) High School before attending Iowa State University. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy, bringing dedication and discipline to his service, which he carried into his subsequent career. As an electrical engineer, Robert made significant contributions to several companies including Lennox, Rockwell International, Addison Products, and finally Tecumseh Products, where he retired.

His hobbies included solving Sudoku puzzles and attending sporting events of his children and later his grandchildren, cheering them on with enthusiasm and pride. A staunch Republican, Robert was deeply engaged in political discussions. He will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his career, and his interests, leaving a lasting impact on those who knew him.

 Aletta's life was marked by her deep compassion and sensitivity. She was a graduate of Tama High School, where she began to cultivate her lifelong interests in crafting and baking, passions that brought joy to family and friends over the years. Her hands were rarely still as she crocheted, cross-stitched, and created intricate diamond dot pictures. Aletta also found great pleasure in baking for family events and attending sporting events of her children and later her grandchildren. 

Professionally, Aletta dedicated years of service as a loan officer, where she was known for her caring nature and dedication to helping others achieve their dreams of homeownership. Aletta's life was a testament to the power of nurturing and love, leaving a legacy of warmth and kindness that will be cherished by all who knew her.

 Born on Oct. 2, 1971, Dorrene brought joy and laughter to those around her with her caring nature and wicked sense of humor. Dorrene graduated from Onsted High School and later earned a bachelor’s degree in business management from Bellevue University in Omaha, Neb. Her professional life was marked by a dedication to service, initially through her military career in the Air Force. Dorrene met her beloved husband, Steve, during her service. She was stationed in Germany and Nebraska, and deployed to the Middle East as a weather specialist during Desert Storm.

Following her military service, Dorrene continued to impact lives through her civilian career including real estate and property management. While apartment manager at Adrian Village, Doreen was honored by the state’s Veteran Services Division for her commitment to hiring military veterans. Doreen’s artistic flair shone through her hobbies. She loved creating stained glass pieces and upcycling antique furniture. Her compassion extended to animals, particularly in rescuing and adopting Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso puppies. Dorrene will be remembered for her ability to foster relationships and create lasting memories, a testament to her caring personality.

Robert and Aletta are survived by their daughter Sherri (Wagner) Jett; son Mark Wagner; six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren, as well as many family members in Iowa and Virginia including Aletta’s siblings Raynard Arp of Iowa, Larry Arp of Virginia, Arlene (Arp) Horstmann of Iowa, and Dean Arp of Iowa.

 Dorrene leaves behind her husband Steve Roberts; stepson Jonathon Roberts; sister Sherri (Wagner) Jett; brother Mark Wagner; and one grandchild, as well as many extended family members in Oklahoma, Iowa, Virginia and Minnesota.

 Friends and family are welcome to join the Wagner and Roberts families in a Celebration of Life event at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12, at the Morenci Eagles in honor of Robert, Aletta and Dorrene.

 Donations in their honor are suggested to Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Charitable Services Trust (help.dav.org) or Stop Soldier Suicide (stopsoldiersuicide.org). 

The Anderson-Marry Funeral Home in Adrian is assisting the Wagner and Roberts families.

Gregory John Lamley, 89, of Morenci, Mich., died Oct. 1, 2024, at home, surrounded by family, with the assistance of Hospice of Lenawee.

He was born Aug. 8, 1935, in Toledo, Ohio, to Rody and Elsie (Liewert) Lamley. He was a 1953 graduate of Adrian High School where he was a three-sport letter athlete. He then attended Michigan State University where he played baseball for two years, graduating in 1957. Greg was drafted in 1958 and served in the U.S. Army at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo.

He married Sandra (Dorchy) on June 9, 1959, in Redford Township, Mich. She preceded him in death on Jan. 7, 2023.

Greg was hired by Morenci Area Schools and taught science for most of his career. He also coached football, basketball and baseball and served as athletic director. Highlights from his coaching years include leading the varsity baseball team to the league championship six years in a row from 1960 to 1965, winning 51 of 52 games. He was assistant coach when the Bulldog football team went to the playoffs in 1983. Greg taught drivers training to Morenci's youths for many years. He retired in 1993 after serving the district for 35 years.

In addition to Morenci athletics, he was a loyal fan of Michigan State University football and basketball, Tiger baseball and the Detroit Lions. Greg and Sandy enjoyed winters in Florida where he was active in tennis and golf. They also traveled and camped. Greg enjoyed landscaping and gardening projects and was a driver of home delivered meals for Lenawee Department on Aging until July 2024.

Greg is survived by a daughter Kym Ries of Morenci, sons Scott Lamley (and Corrie Storer) of Palm Bay, Fla., and Mark (and Erica) Lamley of Morenci; grandchildren Alison Hanks (and Carson Lucas) of Holland, Ohio, Adam Ries of Buchanan, Mich., Stefen (and Jillian) Lamley and Tatiana (and Justin) Breen of Springboro, Ohio, Destini Kruse of New Orleans, La., and Ty Kruse of Mount Pleasant, Mich.; great-grandchildren Cole, Callen and Camryn Lamley, Mia and Hank Breen and another great-grandchild due in 2025.

In addition to his wife Sandy, he was preceded in death by his parents and in-laws Harold and Ann Dorchy.

A memorial visitation for Greg will take place on Sunday, Oct. 13, at Eagle Marry Funeral Home in Morenci from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be no memorial service. Memorial donations in Greg’s honor may be given to Hospice of Lenawee or a charity of the donor’s choice.

William Edward Foster, Sr., 60, of Morenci, Mich., died at his home Sept. 19, 2024.

He was born April 14, 1964, in Morenci to Dan Sr. and Verna (Wentz) Foster.

Bill enlisted in the United States Army and served his country honorably. After returning from the Army, Bill joined the United States National Guard from which he was also honorably discharged. He took pride in being a veteran and his two-time honorable discharges.

Bill owned and operated City Service Towing & Auto Service, LLC, in Morenci. When he wasn’t running his business, Bill could be found actively serving in his community. He was the mayor of Morenci from 2013 to 2015, and a member of the Morenci Planning Commission and the Morenci Chamber of Commerce. He organized the Morenci Town and Country Festival for many years. Bill was also a member of the Morenci American Legion and the Morenci Eagles. He enjoyed fishing and was an avid University of Michigan football fan. He cared about everybody, and his pride and joy were his children and grandchildren.

Bill is survived by children Will (and Kristin) Foster, Dave Foster, Bob Foster, Sarena Deck and Olivia Foster; siblings Kathy (and Kevin) Dubois, Teresa Foster, Dan Foster, and Jesse (and Jan) Foster; 10 grandchildren; and 16 nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by a son, Drake Foster; grandparents Jessie and Laura Foster and Peewee and Maxine Harvey; and uncle Ed Ackerman.

Visitation is planned from noon until the 4 p.m. memorial service Friday, Sept. 27, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci. Following the service, a procession through Morenci is scheduled to honor Bill one last time.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for future designation.

Gregory Lewis Betz, 69, of Morenci, Mich., died Sept. 24, 2024, at Hospice of Lenawee.

He was born Dec. 7, 1954, to Melvin Betz and Betty Fletcher, and they preceded him in death. On Feb. 14, 1998, in Laughlin, Nev., Greg married Roberta Jean Huff, and she preceded him in death.

 Greg was a 1974 graduate of Sand Creek High School.  After graduation, he worked at Stauffer Chemical for 15 years, and then became the proud owner of G & S Steel.  Lastly, he hauled campers for Quality Drivers until his retirement.

In retirement, Greg enjoyed spending time tinkering in the garage, as well as tending to his garden. He was hardworking, incredibly determined, witty and sarcastic. Above all else, he loved his grandkids and dog, Buddy.

Greg is survived by sons Brian (and Kristy) Betz, Mike Betz, and Brad Osborn; daughters Christine Betz, Kellie (and Mark) Seyfried and daughter-in-law, Melissa Osborn; sister Deb (and Rod) Rutledge; eleven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

In addition to his parents and wife, Greg is preceded in death by sister Sharon McDowell.

Visitation is planned from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26, at Anderson-Marry Funeral Home, Adrian. Services will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 27, also at the funeral home, with Pastor Darren Lemmon officiating.  Burial to follow in Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci.

 Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee.

Robert Lewis Huff, 93, of Adrian, Mich., and formerly of Morenci, died Sept. 16, 2024, at Hospice of Lenawee House.

Bob was born March 15, 1931, in Medina, Mich., to George and Fanny (Brown) Huff. He married Shirley Ann Shay, and though the marriage ended, they remained friends.

Bob was very proud of his career spanning 32 ½ years driving for Stubnitz & Green. After his retirement, he worked for a small paving company in Ohio. He also serviced as the Clayton Village Marshal for 19 ½ years and served on the Clayton Fire Department.

Bob was a very independent person, caring for his own property until recently. He was quite the storyteller and jokester, even joking around with his nurses days before his passing. Bob was big into CB radios in past years and loved to cut wood.

Bob is survived by children Linda (and Fred) Dusseau, Vickie (and John) Maginn, Denise Huff, and Allen (and Carol) Huff; son-in-law Greg Betz; 12 grandchildren; and many great- and great-great-grandchildren.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by daughters Teresa Pontious and Roberta Betz; grandsons Todd and Brian Gilson; and brothers Milton and Donald Huff.

Visitation is scheduled from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 18, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 19, also at the funeral home. Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society.

Lori A. Burroughs Passmore, 61, of Lyons, Ohio, died Sept. 8, 2024.

Lori previously lived in Claremont, N.C. She worked at K’s Fine Dining and after the restaurant closed, she worked at Lyons Main Stop.

Lori was known as a loving and generous person with a smile always on her face and a hug for everyone she met — a bubbling personality that was contagious.

Lori is survived by her stepdaughter Alita Payne; sisters Nina (and Roy) Mackey and Connie (and George) Xenakis; brother-in-law Tom Cook; three grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Terry; parents Rev. Merle and Rev. Mary Burroughs; and sister Carol Cook.

A memorial services celebrating her life will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 28,, at Lyons Christian Church, with Rev Heather Schemmel officiating.

The family requests memorial donations to Lyons Christian Church.

Arrangements were made with Habegger Funeral Services.

Stephen LaVern Vernier, MD, of Yukon, Okla., entered into the presence of Jesus Christ, his Lord and Savior, on Aug. 20, 2024, in Yukon.

He was born to Duane and Janet (King) Vernier on April 1, 1957, in Wauseon, Ohio. He was a 1975 graduate of Morenci Area High School in Morenci, Mich.

Steve married Rebecca Arleen Smith on June 29, 1985, at Lake Overholser Church of the Nazarene in Bethany, Okla. Steve and Rebecca met at Bethany Nazarene College in zoology class on the first day of classes in 1984.

Steve graduated from Bethany Nazarene College (now Southern Nazarene University) in 1980 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He returned to Southern Nazarene University in the fall of 1984 to complete science courses that were prerequisites to apply to medical school. He was accepted to the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine in 1989 and graduated in 1993. He completed two years of Internal Medicine Residency at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (OUHSC) and then transferred to OUHSC Family Medicine Residency, which he completed in 1997.

Dr. Vernier had family medicine practices in Mustang and Yukon, Okla. until 2009. In 2009, Dr. Vernier chose to serve the elders of his community and their families. He began a practice in serving long-term care and skilled nursing residents in the Oklahoma City metro area and as far as Clinton, Okla., in partnership with Mercy Hospital. When Mercy closed this practice at the end of 2019, Dr. Vernier joined the practice of Long Term Care Specialists. In 2021, Dr. Vernier founded Paragon Geriatric Associates, where he continued to bring care to patients in skilled rehab and long-term care.

In the last three years, Dr. Vernier became the Chief Medical Officer for Diakonos Group. In this role, he found a team who was as dedicated as himself to holistic and excellent care for patients who live full time in long-term care centers or brief stints in skilled rehab. This will be a lasting legacy as they continue this work.

Steve and Rebecca were blessed with two sons, Austin Ryan and Travis Hunter. He was very thankful that he was able to see Austin graduate from law school and begin his practice and Travis graduate from medical school and start residency. His family was a major priority, and he was their number one supporter and encourager. Long road trips were the norm for family vacations when many fond memories were made and so many interesting things were seen and discovered during unscheduled stops. Large back-yard barbecue get-togethers for celebrations and no reason at all were a favorite time of his. It was a time that everyone could stop for a while to laugh, talk, and reminisce. Steve enjoyed many simple pleasures, a few of which were history, mowing the lawn, sunrises and sunsets, woodwork, and the countryside.

Steve was raised in the Morenci Church of the Nazarene, where he was instilled with a faith heritage and dedication to God. In Oklahoma, Steve was a member of Bethany First Church of the Nazarene. Over the course of his lifetime, he served as church board member, Sunday School superintendent, and Sunday School teacher at Calvary Church of the Nazarene. In the early part of this year, he was studying and preparing to teach a class at Bethany First Church, but this was never realized as his health began to deteriorate.

He is survived by his wife Rebecca; children Austin Ryan Vernier of Oklahoma City, Okla., and Travis Hunter Vernier (and fiancée Emily) of Oklahoma City; father Duane Owen Vernier; siblings Reginald Vernier of Newton, Ill., Ricky Vernier of Woodstock, Va., Cynthia Vernier of Piedmont, Okla., Pamela (and Michael) Schafer of El Reno, Okla., and Douglas (and Donna) Vernier of Warr Acres, Okla.; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother Janet (King) Vernier; grandparents Rex L. Vernier, Rosie (Schoonover) Vernier Punches, Harvey and Gladys King, and step-grandfather Kenneth Punches.

Funeral services were Aug. 23 at Bethany First Church of the Nazarene in Bethany, with Rev. Lewis McClain and Rev. Doug Vernier officiating. Interment followed at Frisco Cemetery in Yukon.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Answers in Genesis, Bethany First Church of the Nazarene, or Southern Nazarene University Business, Science, or Music Departments.

 Audrey M. Stuck, 96, of Waldron, Mich., died Aug. 28, 2024, at her home, surrounded by her family while under the care of Hospice of Hillsdale County.

Audrey was born Nov. 28, 1927, in Ransom Township, Mich., the daughter of Roy and Ida (King) Elser. 

A lifelong Waldron area resident, she graduated from Waldron High School with the Class of 1945. She married Leslie S. “Bud” Stuck the following year on Feb. 24, 1946. Together they raised three sons and enjoyed more than 65 years of companionship before his passing on March 2, 2011.  

Primarily a housewife, Audrey also worked part-time through the years collecting water bills for the Village of Waldron and worked at the former egg factory in town. She was a member of the Order of Pythian Sisters for more than 50 years. She enjoyed gardening and canned much of her ample harvests each year. Audrey was an avid birdwatcher and was faithful in keeping them well fed. As the years passed, Audrey most enjoyed the blessings of her multiple generations of grandchildren.

Surviving are two sons, Mikel Stuck of Pioneer, Ohio, and Norman Stuck of Waldron; daughter-in-law Rose Stuck of Wash.; seven grandchildren, Mary Stuck of Waldron, Nicole (and Shawn) Barnhart of Waldron, Samantha (and Erik) Simmons of Waldron, Shannon Stuck of Hillsdale, Ryan (and Jessica) Stuck of Bryan, Ohio, Jessica (and Jason) Rutan of Wash., and Jenna (and Travis) Hall of Waldron; 14 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Bud; son Robert A. Stuck; brother Arnold Elser; and sister Alice Manley. 

Visitation is planned from 3 to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 3, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Hudson, followed immediately by the funeral service, with Pastor Kim Repp officiating. Inurnment will take place at 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6, at Waldron Cemetery.

Memorial donations are suggested to the family, Hospice of Hillsdale County, or Wright-Waldron Fire Department.

 Robert L. Terry, 84, of rural Fayette,  Ohio, died Aug. 21, 2024, at Fulton Manor in Wauseon, Ohio, while under the care of Hospice of Northwest Ohio.

He was born May 9, 1940, in Wauseon, to Errett and Vera (Slagle) Terry.

Bob was a 1958 graduate of the former Chesterfield High School. On July 14, 1961, in Munson, he married the love of his life, Morenci native Sharon Mansfield, and they made their forever home in Fayette. 

A carpenter by trade, Bob was self-employed for many years and later worked in maintenance for Bio Lab in Adrian, Mich., where he ultimately retired in 2010.

In his spare time he enjoyed watching television and loved making memories with his grandchildren and more recently his great-grandchildren. His dry sense of humor and sarcasm will always be remembered.

Surviving is his wife of 63 years, Sharon; brother Donald Terry of Lyons, Ohio; sisters Ruth Deck of Wauseon and Carol Zimmerman of Brooklyn, Mich.;  daughter-in-law Judy Terry of Delaware, Ohio; grandchildren Justin (and Theresa) Terry of Findlay, Ohio, Amber (and Nick) Hickman of Delaware, Ohio, Aaron Terry and April Terry, both of Marion, Ohio; and great-grandchildren Kendra, Mariah, Lilly, Kyra, Aurora, Adrianna, Ariel and Trevor. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by son Randy Terry in 2021. 

Visitation begins at 11 a.m. Monday, Aug. 28, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci, followed by a funeral service at 1 p.m., with Pastor Valerie Kinsman officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette.

Memorial donations are suggested to Fayette Church of the Nazarene.

Wilbert Albert Edward Herrmann, 86,  of Mukwonago, Wis., died Aug. 18, 2024.

Wilbert was born June 8, 1938, in Shawano, Wis., the son of Gotthelf and Edna (Boettcher) Herrmann.

In 1960 Wilbert graduated from  Wisconsin State College—River Falls. He earned a master’s of science degree from Michigan State University in 1968. In 1981 he received an administrative specialist degree from University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee. He served in the Army from 1961 to 1963 as a personnel specialist. He taught at Morenci (Mich.) Area High School for seven years and at the Four County Vocational School in Ohio for two years before moving to Mukwonago where he served as vocational director until his retirement in 1997. 

Wilbert and Martha Koppitsch were married at Trinity Lutheran Church in Morenci on June 3, 1967. They moved to Mukwonago in 1972 where he worked for the Mukwonago School District for 25 years.

Wilbert was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Mukwonago, where he served on the Board of Education, Board of Elders and Church Council, and he counted weekly offerings. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, woodworking and golf.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Martha, and children Stephanie (and Pastor Jonathan) Nitz, and Matthew (and Laura) Herrmann; grandchildren Joshua, Caleb (and Katie), and Marah (and Josh) Blawat, and Alissa, Emma and Ethan Herrmann; great-grandchildren Henry and Amelia Nitz; brothers Marvin (and the late Sharon), and John (and Marlene); sisters-in-law Marcie Herrmann and Darleen Herrmann; brother-in-law Michael Koppitsch; and sister-in-law Julie (and the late Roy) Palnau.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Vernon and Roger. 

Visitation is planned from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 25, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, followed by a funeral service at 4 p.m., with Pastor John Bortulin officiating.

Memorials are suggested to St. John’s Lutheran Church or the American Diabetes Association.

Roger Lee Kunkle, 99, of Fayette, Ohio, died at his residence Aug. 16, 2024.

Born July 12, 1925, in a farmhouse near Fayette, he was the third son of Arthur Glen and Louetta Edith (Zimmerman) Kunkle.

He attended Gorham Fayette High School, graduating in 1943. He married his high school sweetheart, Beverly Robison, in 1943. They celebrated their 81st wedding anniversary on Aug. 10, the second longest recorded marriage in Ohio.

Roger was a lifelong farmer and owned an agricultural lime business for many years. For more than 50 years, Roger and Beverly enjoyed spending winters in Florida.

In addition to his wife, Beverly, Roger is survived by children Jane Moor, Julie (and Jeffrey) Altman, Sally (and Dennis) Robinson, and Larry (and Nancy) Kunkle; 10 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and 10 great-great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings Wayne and Helena Kunkle, Gahlon and Betty Kunkle, and Max and Paula Borton; son-in-law Herb Moor; and granddaughter Kayleen Benner.

Visitation is planned from noon until 2 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 20, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette, followed by funeral services with Pastor Vicki Schnitkey officiating. Interment will follow at Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Heartland Hospice or Fayette Christian Church.

Merle Lee Eichler, 68, of Manitou Beach, Mich., died Aug. 13, 2024, at ProMedica Toledo Hospital, following years of ailing health.

Born July 7, 1956, in Morenci, Mich., Merle was the son of Donald Richard and Ruth Irene (Double) Eichler. Merle grew up on the family farm on Gallup Road north of Morenci, and attended Morenci Area Schools. He married the former Karen Kay Forbes on June 7, 1975, in Waldron, Mich., and she survives.

In addition to working on the farm feeding pigs and milking cows, he worked as a foreman at the former Peters Stamping Company in Fayette, Ohio, for 17 years until its closure. Merle took great pride in taking care of his farm and his yard work. In later years he loved to watch Western movies and anything involving horses on television. He was outgoing and happy-go-lucky, always ready with a joke to make someone laugh, and was eager to help anyone in need. In most recent years, his greatest joy in life was his beloved grandchildren.

Surviving is his wife, Karen; three children, Shawn Eichler (and Tiah Choate) of Adrian, Mich., Lynn Double of Manitou Beach, Mich., and Cindi Dillard of Mich.; grandchildren Kyle, Cody, Ryan, Riley, Stephan, Isaiah, Cayden, Jesse, Tyler, Dakota, Christopher, Elizabeth, Jonathan, Marcus and Devin; and 11 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Lacy Ann Eichler; and two sisters, Edith Irene Ekins and Eunice Heckman.

Cremation will take place and private burial in the Canandaigua Cemetery is planned at a later date.

Arrangements were made with  Anderson-Marry Funeral Home, Adrian.

Rose Marie Hoag, 61, of Fayette, Ohio, died Aug. 12, 2024, at Ayden Healthcare in Wauseon, Ohio, after years of ailing health.

She was born March 5, 1963, at Bixby Hospital in Adrian to the late Richard and Ruth Marie (Eichenberg) Deakins. At age 12, following a tragic automobile accident that took the life of her mother and a brother, she was lovingly adopted by the family of Jerry and Mary Ann (Wulff) Hoffman of Morenci, Mich.

Rose lived her early life in Adrian and was a 1982 graduate of Berean Baptist Academy. For many years she was employed with Adrian Public Schools in various cafeterias as a lunchroom supervisor. She was a longtime member of the Morenci Bible Fellowship, before recently attending the Fayette Church of the Nazarene.

Rose first met Richard Charles Hoag of Delta, Ohio, on social media, and she invited him to meet her personally over a simple meal of chili and coffee. The two instantly bonded and married on June 30, 2018, at Canandaigua Church. 

A lover of the outdoors, Rose enjoyed fishing, camping, and taking walks everywhere she wanted to go. She enjoyed knitting and crocheting, and had the biggest heart for all animals, taking in various strays as pets over the years. She will forever be remembered for her loving and caring ways, her genuine companionship as a friend, and her selfless desire to help anyone in need.

Surviving in addition to her husband of six years, Richard, is her daughter, Valerie Hoffman at home;  four brothers, Jeffrey Hoffman of Fairlawn, Va., Daniel (and Tonia) Hoffman of Morenci, Michael (and Cynthia) Hoffman of Morenci, and Dick (and Rose) Hoffman of Adrian; two sisters, Sue (and Todd) King of Onondaga, Mich., and Thelma (and Clark) Carncross of Johannesburg, Mich.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her birth parents, she was preceded in death by her adopted parents and brothers, Billy and Jimmy.

Memorial services are pending and details will be announced in the coming days.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family to defray expenses.  

Arrangements were made with Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette.

James Edward Carrington, 79, of Wauseon, Ohio, died Aug. 8, 2024, at Fulton County Health Center in Wauseon, Ohio.

He was born Oct. 31, 1944, at Detwiler Memorial Hospital in Wauseon to Thomas Wesley Carrington and Laura Genevieve Gray.

On June 9, 1963, Jim married Elda Leininger in Fayette, Ohio, and they recently celebrated 61 years of marriage. After their marriage they lived in Angola and Fort Wayne, Ind. After the birth of their first child, they moved back to Fayette and later to Wauseon. In their retirement years, Jim and Elda enjoyed spending their winters at Golf Lake Estates in Bradenton, Fla.

For most of his life, Jim was employed as a tool maker at Fayette Tubular Products. He worked there for many years before beginning his retirement job as maintenance supervisor at Heartland Nursing Home. Throughout his life, Jim also served as a volunteer firefighter for the Gorham Fayette Fire Department.

When he wasn't working, Jim could be found playing his mandolin, wood carving, watching NASCAR, or lawn bowling. He was very athletic and was involved in many sports in high school including baseball, basketball and track. Jim was known to be very witty and always had a joke on his lips. Most importantly, Jim loved his family, and he enjoyed following and keeping up with what his children and grandchildren were involved in.

In addition to his wife, Jim is survived by children Thomas (and Teresa) Carrington of McBain, Mich., Dianne (and Chris) Valentine of Wauseon, and Amanda Leininger of Angola, Ind.; grandchildren Aaron (and Leah) Carrington, Charlie Fink, Anna (and Tyler) Ellsworth, Shelby (and RJ) Gearhart, Zach Fink, Valerie Meininger, Brady Leininger and Jake Valentine; great-grandchildren Ronin, Leona, Hugo and Lilliana; and two sisters, Patricia Carrington-Fondale and Luanne Wade, both of Vero Beach, Fla

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Joyce Elaine Carrington.

Visitation is planned from 3 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 11, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Fayette. Funeral services will begin at 11:30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 12, at the funeral home, with Worship Leader Lynn Leininger officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Fayette Volunteer Fire Association.

Jody Lee Pummell, 69, of Morenci,  Mich., died Aug. 6, 2024.

Jody was born Dec. 24, 1954, to Janeane and Weldon Schang in Hudson, Mich. After graduating from Morenci Area High School in 1973, she built a life revolving around family and community. If there was news about someone she might know, she cared about the details.

Jody worked at a variety of area factories and businesses, but her favorite job was easily her role as manager at the local hardware store. Handling orders for Adam and Gail Johnson and serving the many needs of Morenci area residents was her genuine pleasure. She also volunteered for many years with the Morenci Area Chamber of Commerce, most famously as Bingo organizer extraordinaire.

In 1974, Jody met Dale Pummell. Although they attended the same high school, they were four years apart and only met then. After a wedding in June 1975, they were very proud that their loving union produced three children, Jennifer, Kelly and Alex, all of whom graduated from college and have had two kids of their own.

After 17 years at the hardware store, Jody retired upon its closure so as to enjoy more time in the world of sports, for which her infatuation was second only to her father’s. Whether cheering in person or via the wonders of twenty-first-century livestreams, she was a passionate fan of professional and Big 10 sports. But her greatest joy was in watching her children’s and grandchildren’s ballgames and recitals. To her eye, the amateurs often outperformed the pros, and her kids and grandkids were always safe.

Jody is survived by her mother, husband, and children Jennifer and Everett Hamner of Bettendorf, Iowa, and their children Aidan and Rowan; Kelly and Alissa Pummell of Wooster, Ohio, and their children Janeane and William; and Alex and Amanda Pummell of Dayton, Ohio, and their children Heidi and Gabriel.

She was preceded in death by her father in 2000

Visitation is planned from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci, followed by a memorial service at 4 p.m. After cremation, inurnment at Oak Grove Cemetery will occur privately at a later date. Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee, which cared very graciously for Jody and her family in their last several days together.

Since December, Jody fought medical issues culminating with liver failure. Her medical records show an underlying problem of which she was unaware until very recently. Please be as proactive as possible and help avoid such oversights.

William E. Fee, 80, of Morenci, Mich., died Aug. 5, 2024, at his residence, under the care of Elara Caring Hospice.

He was born Oct. 28, 1943, in Allen, Mich., to William F. and Madalyn Mae (Hise) Fee. On Sept. 28, 1999, he married Sue Sallows, and she survives. 

 Bill worked in a factory, then as a concrete finisher, retiring in 2000.  He was a man with a very big heart.  If anyone needed anything, they had it from Bill. He could also make friends with anyone. Bill was a very hard worker, but loved going Up North with his family.  He also enjoyed fishing, hunting and camping. 

 In addition to his wife, Bill is survived by sons Jared (and Heather) Fee and Justin (and Cassey) Fee; daughters Angela (and Steve) Case and Melissa (and Adam) Mc Laughlin; step-sons Shane and Christopher (and Maria) Curtis; grandchildren Dustin, Lexi, Adriana and Gabe Hernandez, Derek Dusseau, Hannah Case, Rachel, Cameron and Keegan Fee, Hudson Mc Laughlin, Libby and Claire Fee and Isabella, Liam, Harlan, Naomi, Katherine and Jayden Curtis; six great-grandchildren; brother Kevin (and Mimi) Fee; sisters MaryAnne (and Robert) Eberly, Jeannie (and Don) Poling, Sandy (and Clyde) Darrow, and Barb (and Jerry) Minzey.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter Rebecca Hernandez; and sister Carolyn (and Guy) Lumbardo.

 Cremation will take place and a celebration of life will be held by the family at a later date.

Memorial donations are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci is assisting the family with arrangements.

Adam Gustave Johnson, 83, died July 26, 2024, in Adrian, Mich., surrounded by his loving wife and family.

He was born May 13, 1941, in Detroit, Mich. 

Adam had a zest for life that was rooted in a strong desire to help others. Adam’s professional journey was both varied and impactful. After moving from his birthplace, he ventured into public service, initially joining the Garden City Police Department. He then attended Michigan State University where he earned a bachelor of arts in criminal justice and a master’s degree in police administration.

He served as a consultant to the State of Illinois before transitioning to a significant role with IACP, International Association of Chiefs of Police, in Washington, D.C. 

He then joined the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. This position allowed him to travel the world, with notable stops in Russia and Japan, enriching his experience and broadening his perspective. 

Later, Adam became a beloved figure in Morenci, Mich., where he was integral to the community through his ownership of Johnson Gambles Hardware Store.  He and his wife Gail owned and operated the store for 34 years.  

He was a Morenci Board of Education member and an active leader with the Kiwanis Club. He was passionate about programs including the Christmas Wishing Tree, American Flag project and the Rex Riley Scholarship soup and pie fund raiser.

He met the love of his life, Gail, in high school while on a blind date in 1957.  They were married Nov. 23, 1963, and proudly raised two children, Ron and Jennifer.

Beyond his professional life, Adam was known for his unique combination of hobbies which included golf, fishing and hunting. He was often seen at DeMor Hills golf course, where he ingeniously combined golfing with fishing, a testament to his inventive spirit and love for the outdoors.

Adam’s legacy is not just in the lives he touched, but also in the vibrant spirit and joy he brought to his every endeavor.

He is survived by his wife Gail; children Ron (and Jerri) Johnson and Jennifer (and Joe) Morgan; grandchildren Drew and Adam Morgan; and sister Sharon (and Larry) Holtz.

He was preceded in death by his brother Sam and sister Florence.

An open house celebrating the life of Adam is scheduled from 2 to 6 p.m. Sept. 14 at Eagles Club, 239 W. Main St., in Morenci.

Memorial donations are suggested to the Adam Johnson Memorial Scholarship fund, managed by the Morenci Kiwanis Club supporting a cause close to his heart. Checks should be made out to the Adam Johnson Memorial Scholarship and can be mailed to Morenci Kiwanis Club, PO Box 84, Morenci, MI 49256.

Arrangements were made with Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci.

Virginia Lee Buehrer, 92, of Fayette, Ohio, died at home Sunday, July 21, 2024, under the care of Heartland Hospice for one week.

She was born Aug. 25, 1931, to Clair and Lucille (Mohler) Borton. Virginia attended Zone School until the eighth grade, and in 1949 she graduated from Gorham Fayette High School. On Sept. 14, 1969, she married Richard A. Buehrer, and he survives. 

Virigina worked at Fayette Tubular Products until her retirement. She was a member of Fayette Methodist Church. She was a loving mother of four children and grandmother of many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Virginia volunteered for many years for Meals on Wheels and the food bank, as well as serving on the Fire Belles for Gorham Fayette Fire Department.

Surviving are her husband Dick (who took wonderful care of Virginia until the time she passed); children Becky (and David) Lichtenwald, Jill Flinchum, Tod Schaffner, and Amy Schaffner; grandchildren Chad, Brooke, Keri, Tyler, Jade, Nick, Mikhaela and Fernando; great-grandchildren Ciara, Terrill, Tremaine, Addisen, Karli, Anabelle and Judah; great-great-grandchildren Brooklyn, Beckam, Raidim and Jody; and brother David (and Karen) Borton.

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Gary Borton, and grandson, Adam.

Memorial visitation is scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m. Thursday, July 25, at Fayette Methodist Church’s Family Life Center followed by the memorial services, with  Pastor Mickey Richardson officiating.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Fayette Fire Association or Fayette Methodist Church.

Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette is assisting the family with arrangements.

Richard A. Peebles, 92, of Lyons, Ohio, died July 7, 2024, at Hospice of Northwest Ohio in Sylvania, Ohio.

He was born March 5, 1932, in Temperance, Mich., to Ray Randall and Gwendolyn Clarissa (Pickles) Peebles. He was a 1949 graduate of Lyons High School.

In 1950, Richard joined the United States Air Force during the Korean War. After serving, he married Ella Jean Burroughs on June 27, 1953. Richard worked for the Dana Corporation for 25 years until his retirement. He continued working as an electrician for many farmers and families in the Lyons area until the age of 91.

Richard is survived by his devoted wife of 71 years, Ella Jean; daughter Betsy Jo (and Rick) Woodring; sons Scott (and Cynthia) Peebles and Ryan (and Jeannie) Peebles; brother Randy (and Linda) Peebles; sisters Amy Schultz, Ina Rae Whaley, Juell (and Dennis) Powers and Lois (and Herschel) Blackerby; grandchildren Megan (and Kevin) Miller, Marissa (and Mike) Halligan, Erica (and Melissa) Peebles and Nicholas Peebles; great-grandchildren Cody Miller, Alexis Miller, Colin Halligan and Cailee Halligan.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers Al Peebles, Dan Peebles and John Peebles, and sister Lenora Borck.

Visitation is planned from 10 a.m. until  noon Tuesday, July 16, at Weigel Funeral Home in Metamora, where services will begin at noon, with Pastor Heather Schimmel officiating. Interment with Military Honors will follow at Lyons Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to New Story Schools.

Stephen Webster, 75, of Seneca, Mich., died July 5, 2024.

Stephen is survived by his wife Nancy Meads; children Patricia (and Donat) Ratell and Bradley (and Megan) Webster; stepchildren Heather (and Mark) Kreighbaum and Harley Bussing; grandchildren Alaina, Ava, Brendan, Lucas, Brenden and Carsen; step-grandchildren Michael, Daniel and Alice; great-grandchild Amelia; brother Roger (and Evana) Webster; two nephews and numerous cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Orlo Webster and Virginia Webster (Peterson), and grandson Donovan.

A celebration of life will begin at 1 p.m. Friday, July 12, at Canandaigua Community Church.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for future designation or to Hospice of Lenawee County.

Arlan Atwell Murray, 83, of Morenci, Mich., died July 4, 2024, at his residence, under the care of Hospice of Lenawee.

He was born March 16, 1941, in Chesterfield Township, Ohio, to Forrest L. “Pete” and Mary A. (Stoerman) Murray.  The family, including his older sister, Virginia, lived in various locations near Morenci, where the family earned an income by farming for others. In 1952, the family purchased one of their current farms. Later, a second farm was added. Arlan attended Chesterfield School, and after graduating from Morenci High School in 1960, he continued to work on the family farm.  As a young adult, he left farming and began working at Eklund Broach in Morenci as a surface grinder.  He worked there until he retired. 

Arlan married Donna Yape in Deerfield, Mich., in 1965, at Deerfield Methodist Church. They lived in Wauseon, Ohio, for nearly three years before moving back to Morenci so he could take up farming on the family farms. Together, they enjoyed farming, gardening, and traveling throughout Northern Michigan and cruising the Caribbean, to Alaska, and around New Zealand. On one of the Alaskan cruises, they met a couple from Australia who have become precious friends.

Arlan was a proud farmer and prided himself on keeping his rows straight as he planted corn and beans and liked to see his corn knee high by the Fourth of July.  Arlan enjoyed watching his son Kurt and his daughter Lisa participate in various activities.

 Arlan is survived by Donna, his wife of 59 years; son Kurt (and Mary); and  daughter Lisa (and Tracy) Zuver.  He was especially proud of his grandchildren, Mattea (and Thomas) Hull, Ben Zuver, and Loggan Murray.  He enjoyed watching their activities and spending time with them. 

Arlan was preceded in death by his parents; his sister; and his granddaughter, DC Murray.

 Visitation is planned from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, July 8, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci, followed by funeral services. Pastor Jim Yatzek will officiate. Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery.

 Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee.

Marjorie J. Robertson, 86, of Morenci, Mich., died June 29, 2024, surrounded by her family.

She was born March 12, 1938, to Edward and Clara Armbruster in Marion, Ohio. Marjorie married Leslie Robertson on Jan. 12, 1963, and together they had four children.

Marjorie was a devoted wife and mother who spent her time raising her children and enjoying her role as homemaker. She was a long-time member of Faith Lutheran Church in Metamora, Ohio, as well as Morenci Bible Fellowship in Morenci. She enjoyed cooking, cleaning, canning and freezing her husband’s fresh garden produce, and talking on the phone with her sisters. She was known as a strong, brave woman who took her one and only airplane ride to California when her youngest daughter got married in 2003. She also bravely endured open heart surgery at age 78 which allowed her to spend her remaining eight years loving her family. Her family was devoted to her care until she took her final breath.

Marjorie is survived by her husband, Leslie; son Matthew; daughters Linda and Cheryl (and Vincent) Moore; and brother James Armbruster.

She was preceded in death by her parents, nine brothers and sisters, and her son Mark.

Visitation  is planned from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 5, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci.  Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 6, at the funeral home, with burial following in Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for a future designation. 

Tyler Elliot Tussing, 19, of Fayette, Ohio, died June 29, 2024, in a tragic fire at his home. He was born July 29, 2004, in Toledo, Ohio, the son of Jennifer Nine and Randy Tussing. 

Tyler was a 2023 graduate of Fayette High School and was employed at NRI Industrial Sales of Delta. Upon a recent promotion of his father at the same company, he took over his dad’s position of fulfilling orders. Tyler had a very creative and engineering-geared mind, and found great pleasure in reconstructing mechanics or anything with computers, and creating various objects with his 3D printer. He loved to make music, specifically digital sounds, but also could play the piano and was teaching himself how to play the guitar. He loved to be in the company of his Husky, Rocky, who also perished in the fire. Tyler loved spending time with family and always encouraged game night. He is remembered as goofy, fun-loving, easy to talk to, and he was always eager to help others and loved to make others laugh.

Tyler is survived by his parents, Jennifer Nine (and Devin Phares) of Toledo and Randy Tussing (and Charity McGuire) of Fayette; siblings Logan Tussing, 16, at home, Oliver Tussing, 1, at home, Sophia McGuire, 7, at home, and John Beach of Toledo, Ohio; paternal grandparents Linda Orel of Fayette and Richard Tussing of Napoleon, Ohio; paternal great-grandparents Bill and Lila Butts of Adrian, Mich., and Edith Tussing of Toledo; maternal aunt and uncle Laura (and Bill) Smith of Fayette; paternal aunt and uncles Richard Tossing of Toledo, Jeremy Tussing of Wauseon, Desiree Tussing of Napoleon, Jonathan Orel of Fayette, and Joshua Orel of Fayette; maternal cousins Aubrey, Cameron, Sadeze, Nathaniel, Alexis and Jase; and numerous paternal cousins.

Tyler was preceded in death by his sister, Katie Tussing; his maternal grandparents Ruth Ann Beach and Charles Nine; and maternal great-grandmother Blanche Lucy Nine. 

Visitation for Tyler and Katie is planned from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, July 5, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. A graveside service will follow at 2 p.m. at Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette, with Pastor Andy Reynard officiating.

Memorial donations are suggested to the family or by donating through the crowdfunding link on the funeral home website.

Katie Marie Tussing, 18, of Fayette, Ohio, died June 29, 2024, in a tragic fire at her home. She was born Nov. 25, 2005, in Wauseon, Ohio, the daughter of Jennifer Nine and Randy Tussing. 

Katie recently graduated in May with the Class of 2024 at Fayette High School. She was employed at NRI Industrial Sales of Delta, Ohio, alongside her father and brothers. There she worked as a photographer for their online sales division. Katie was known as an amazing person and gifted artist. She was skilled at drawing and painting, and she loved eating chocolate ice cream. She lived for her animals, all who lost their lives in the fire, including her two Huskies, Ash and Ellie, and two cats, Elsa and Pumpkin. Katie was a caring person and loyally dedicated to her family.

Katie is survived by her parents Jennifer Nine (and Devin Phares) of Toledo and Randy Tussing (and Charity McGuire) of Fayette; siblings Logan Tussing, 16, at home, Oliver Tussing, 1, at home, Sophia McGuire, 7, at home, and John Beach of Toledo, Ohio; paternal grandparents Linda Orel of Fayette and Richard Tussing of Napoleon, Ohio; paternal great-grandparents Bill and Lila Butts of Adrian, Mich., and Edith Tussing of Toledo; maternal aunt and uncle Laura (and Bill) Smith of Fayette; paternal aunt and uncles Richard Tussing of Toledo, Jeremy Tussing of Wauseon, Desiree Tussing of Napoleon, Jonathan Orel of Fayette, and Joshua Orel of Fayette; maternal cousins, Aubrey, Cameron, Sadeze, Nathaniel, Alexis and Jase; and numerous paternal cousins.

She was preceded in death by her brother Tyler Tussing; her maternal grandparents Ruth Ann Beach and Charles Nine; and maternal great-grandmother Blanche Lucy Nine. 

Visitation for Katie and Tyler is planned  from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Friday, July 5, at   at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. A graveside service will follow at 2 p.m. at Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette, with Pastor Andy Reynard officiating.

Memorial donations are suggested to the family or by donating through the crowdfunding link on the funeral home website.

Adam Gustave Johnson, 83, died July 26, 2024, in Adrian, Mich., surrounded by his loving wife and family.

He was born May 13, 1941, in Detroit, Mich. 

Adam had a zest for life that was rooted in a strong desire to help others. Adam’s professional journey was both varied and impactful. After moving from his birthplace, he ventured into public service, initially joining the Garden City Police Department. He then attended  Michigan State University where he earned a bachelor’s of arts in criminal justice and a master’s degree in police administration.

He served as a consultant to the State of Illinois before transitioning to a significant role with IACP, International Association of Chiefs of Police, in Washington, D.C. 

He then joined the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. This position allowed him to travel the world, with notable stops in Russia and Japan, enriching his experience and broadening his perspective. 

Later, Adam became a beloved figure in Morenci, Mich., where he was integral to the community through his ownership of Johnson Gambles Hardware Store.  He and his wife Gail owned and operated the store for 34 years.  

He was a Morenci Board of Education member and an active leader with the Kiwanis Club. He was passionate about programs including the Christmas Wishing Tree, American Flag project and the Rex Riley Scholarship soup and pie fund raiser.

He met the love of his life, Gail, in high school while on a blind date in 1957.  They were married Nov. 23, 1963, and proudly raised two children, Ron and Jennifer.

Beyond his professional life, Adam was known for his unique combination of hobbies which included golf, fishing and hunting. He was often seen at DeMor Hills golf course, where he ingeniously combined golfing with fishing, a testament to his inventive spirit and love for the outdoors.

Adam’s legacy is not just in the lives he touched, but also in the vibrant spirit and joy he brought to his every endeavor.

He is survived by his wife Gail; children Ron (and Jerri) Johnson and Jennifer (and Joe) Morgan; grandchildren Drew and Adam Morgan; and sister Sharon (and Larry) Holtz.

He was preceded in death by his brother Sam and sister Florence.

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life open house celebrating the life of Adam is scheduled from 2 to 6 p.m. Sept. 14 at Eagles Club, 239 W. Main St in Morenci.

Memorial donations are suggested to the Adam Johnson Memorial Scholarship fund, managed by the Morenci Kiwanis Club supporting a cause close to his heart.  Checks should be made out to the Adam Johnson Memorial Scholarship and can be mailed to Morenci Kiwanis Club, PO Box 84, Morenci, MI 49256.

Memorial donations are suggested to the the Rex Riley Scholarship Fund in Adam Johnson’s name, supporting a cause close to his heart.

Arrangements were made with Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci.

The family of Jim Brink will honor his memory with a Celebration of his Life on Sunday, July 14, 2024.

He was special to us and to his friends as well. For anyone wishing to attend the graveside service, it will be at the back of Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci and will begin at 1 p.m.

Dinner and fellowship to follow at 2 p.m. at the Morenci American Legion, 9010 E. Morenci Road.

He is missed by all of us and we all hold wonderful memories of the times that we have shared with him.

Those wishing to offer an expression of sympathy, please consider: Hospice of Lenawee, 1903 Wolf Creek Hwy., Adrian, MI. 49221, or Lenawee Humane Society, 705 Beecher St., Adrian, MI 49221

– K. Brink; Nicole Wilhelm; Lucas Wilhelm and Dr. Grace Norden; Jason and Abbe Voigt, Griffin and Aimee; Jerry and Marianne Hayes and Families

Sandra Kay Upcott, 75, of Morenci,  Mich., died  June 26, 2024, at ProMedica Toledo Hospital. 

She was born Oct. 27, 1948, in Pontiac, Mich., to Delbert and Dorothy Hardenburgh. On July 22, 1967, in Waterford, Mich., she married Terry Upcott, and he survives.

 Sandy was known to be always proper – a true lady. She was consistently involved in church and made sure that everyone there felt loved and welcomed. Any project that she took on was not complete until it was done to perfection. She did all of this with grace and humility, never wanting to be in the spotlight. She truly did not know her own worth.

 Her pride in her children and grandchildren was shared with anyone who would listen. She spent much time teaching them. Whether it was academic, personal, or spiritual, she made sure that they all had learned what they would need for this life. She always said, “I love you and Jesus loves you!”, making sure they knew that she loved Him, and He loves them. When she touched your life, whether it was in a big way or a small way, you knew that you were loved.

 She is survived by her husband Terry; children Pastor Terry C. (and Jennifer) Upcott and Tracy (and Floyd) Schell; 10 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; brother Ethan (and Tammy) Hardenburgh; and sister Roxanne Hardenburgh. 

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Roger Hardenburgh; and a sister, Carolyn Newcombe.

 Visitation is planned from 10 a.m. until noon Monday, July 1, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Funeral services will follow at noon with Pastor John Rath of First Baptist Church in Hudson, officiating. There will be no burial, as cremation will follow.

 Memorial donations are suggested to First Baptist Church in Hudson.

Jennavieve Ebersole, 16, of Bryan,  Ohio, died June 25, 2024, the result of an automobile accident.

She was born Sept. 1, 2007, in Wauseon, Ohio, the daughter of Eric Ebersole and Michelle (Lawson) Wasson. Jenna recently completed her sophomore year at Bryan High School.

Jenna effortlessly captivated hearts with her free spirit and her great appreciation for humor. She loved to laugh as much as she loved to make others laugh, often followed by her self-proclaimed expression, “I’m so funny.” She had a contagious energy about her and despite her age, was always the most strong-willed, spontaneous, adventurous, and determined person in any room.

Her life was consumed by the countless friendships that blessed her. She lived for her family and was a devoted aunt to many nieces and nephews. She spoke of them with such great joy which was often followed by her infectious smile causing her eyes to disappear. She adored them deeply as they brought out her tender side. She also had a special place in her heart for her beloved canine companions. Jenna leaves behind a legacy of living life to its fullest and reminds us that life is a gift, and to never take a single moment for granted.

Jenna is survived by her mother Michelle (and Jacob) Wasson of Bryan; father Eric Ebersole (and Necole Lynch) of Fayette; maternal grandmother Barbara Staffey of Fayette; siblings Lacotus Ebersole of Chicago, Ill., Kylee (and José) Cordova of Bryan, McKenna (and Jordan) Robb of Bryan, Dylan Ebersole (and Jasmine Ramos) of Wauseon, Ethan Wasson of Bryan, Kiah Wasson (and Andrew Ehlers) of Bryan, Bradley Moser of Bryan, Calysta Wasson of Bryan, Peyton Ebersole of Bronson, Mich., Ashley Nofziger of Bryan; and  numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather Don Staffey and her paternal grandparents Loyal Ebersole and Irene Borton.

Visitation is planned from 1 to 7 p.m. Sunday, June 30, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. A private funeral service for the family will be held, with burial to take place in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette. 

Memorial donations are suggested to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Linda Lou Reeves, 82, of Sand Creek, Mich., died June 10, 2024, at Mercy Health St. Ann’s Hospital in Toledo, Ohio.

She was born Feb. 11, 1942, in Tecumseh, Mich., to Wayne Wesley Lusk and Hazel Eliza (Punches) Lusk (Kresse). Linda graduated from Madison High School in 1960 and married Carlton James Reeves on Sept. 4, 1960, at Lyons Christian Church in Lyons, Ohio. They celebrated 63 years of marriage in 2023. 

She enjoyed movies, shopping and eating out, and she loved her family dearly. Linda had a special heart for children, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a longstanding member of Lyons Christian Church and helped with many activities over the years including vacation Bible school.

Surviving in addition to her husband are sister Sandra Winzeler; nieces Kim Spiegel, Barb Vanderveen and family, Susan Dilworth and family and Linda Vidal; nephews Charles Leonard and Kenneth Leonard; great-nieces Kylene (and Jessie) Biggs, and Breanna Spiegel; great-nephew Jared Spiegel; great-great-nieces, Olivia Biggs and Nile Biggs; daughter Sherry Lynn (and Todd) Cook of Sand Creek, Mich.; son Earl Wesley (and Shelley) Reeves of Parrish, Fla.; grandchildren Eric (and Rachel) Uitdenhowen, Cassondra Uitdenhowen, Todd F. Cook, Jr., Cassandra Cook, Katrina Reeves, Gabrielle Reeves, Gavin Reeves and Taylor (and Kevin) Pritchett; great-grandchildren Holly Ann Uitdenhowen, Lucas Eugene Cook and Ross Jameson Uitdenhowen.

In addition to her parents, Linda was preceded in death by her mother- and father-in-law Errol Hazen and Mary Agnes Reeves; brothers-in-law Wayne Louie Winzeler, Ralph “Bud” Leonard and Jack Leonard, Stanley Cook; and sisters-in-law Marilyn “Monny” Cook, Hazel Leonard and Melquy Leonard.

Visitation is scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, June 13, at Lyons Christian Church and on Friday from 10 a.m. until the funeral service at 11 a.m. Her final resting place will be in Fairfield Cemetery in Fairfield, Mich., where a graveside service will take place following the funeral service.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Lyons Christian Church.

Mary Ann Heath, 85, of Fayette, Ohio, died June 8, 2024, at Fulton County Health Center in Wauseon, Ohio.

Mary was born July 15, 1938, in Burlington, Ohio, to Arthur and Edna (Gerken) Schang. On Thanksgiving, Nov. 26, 1959, in Elmira, she married James F. Heath, and he preceded her in death April 16, 2005. Mary worked for more than 38 years at the former LaChoy Plant (Conagra) in Archbold, Ohio.

Mary spent her free time exactly how she wanted to. She enjoyed playing card games with family, playing slot machines at the casino, and spending time at home working on word search puzzles. She joined her late husband and siblings for activities including fishing, local and NASCAR races, and county fairs. She enjoyed watching the Fayette High School girls basketball games and going to the Home Restaurant in Archbold with her family. She was an avid bowler, playing in a bowling league in Morenci with her daughter.

Mary is survived by children James Heath and Julie Heath; granddaughter Allison Summers (and Stefano) Ajazi; and sisters Ruth (and Paul) Barnaby and Linda (and Griff) Griffiths.

Along with her parents and husband, she was predeceased by sister Carolyn Kline, and brothers Weldon, Dale and her twin brother, Larry Schang.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 13, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Funeral services, also at the funeral home, will begin at 1 p.m. Friday, with Rev. Karen King officiating. Interment will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette.

Memorial contributions are suggested to either to the Fayette Fireman’s Association, 118 E. Main Street, Fayette, Ohio 43521 or the Fayette High School girls basketball team  at 400 E. Gamble Rd., Fayette, Ohio 43521.

Martha Mae (Lucas) Cochran, 80,  formerly of Fayette, Ohio, died June 5, 2024, in Conway, S.C.

Born Sept. 8, 1943, in Fayette, Martha grew up in a large family on a farm outside of town. She was a 1961 graduate of Gorham-Fayette High School.

Martha worked for many years as a restaurant manager for Gladieux on the Ohio Turnpike. She moved to Conway in 1990 where she continued in restaurant work.

Martha was known as a very hard worker and she officially retired at the age of 76 from Dollar Tree. She always had a smile and kind words for her customers, and many remember her fondly.

She loved flowers and planted many around her home. She enjoyed trips to the beach, cookouts with her children, reading, and especially dog-sitting her “granddog” Piper. Martha liked watching birds and loved to catch a glimpse of a deer. She also liked annual trips back to Fayette.

She is survived by her children Anthony L. Cochran and Juli D. Cochran, both of Conway; sister Eloise Wyse; and  brother Don (and Linda) Lucas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Audrey Lucas of Fayette, and four siblings, Vera Hopkins, Lois Hill, Robert Lucas and James Lucas.

A private memorial will be planned in Fayette at a later date.

Homer Harry Keefer, 84, died June 2, 2024, at Fulton Manor in Wauseon, Ohio.  

He was a son of Alfred and Burdella (Brink) Keefer, born May 8, 1940, and was the sixth and last child born at the homestead located on US-20 in Fayette, Ohio. He married Marilyn Snow on July 11, 1959, and they were married for 35 years until her passing.

Homer was a lifelong farmer in Fayette and didn’t move far from the homestead to make his home for 65 years. He resided there until a recent fall that resulted in a hospital stay and the move to a nursing home.  

Homer always took pride in Fayette FFA and proudly wore his jacket during his high school years. He showed registered Hampshire hogs, raised on the family farm, and received champion ribbons several years. He often spoke of Ed Green as an outstanding advisor and learned a lot from the agriculture and shop programs. 

Homer was a proud member of the Gorham Fayette High School Class of 1958. He had many fond memories of his classmates and often told stories of good times spent with all. During his last few weeks, he still mentioned their names and wondered how they all were doing. Homer attended every class reunion and enjoyed reminiscing. 

Homer and Marilyn were members of the Fulton County Pork Chop Club for many years and grilled a lot of sausages for the famous “fair sausage sandwich.”  He also supported the pig scramble at the Fulton County Fair and took loads of feeder pigs to the fair, greased and ready to be caught by the kids to take home and raise.  

For many years he volunteered to cook sausage at Zone School for their Pancake and Sausage Supper fund raising project.  He was a community person and had a big heart, willing to help anyone. He often volunteered for projects such as removing old bleachers at the school, helping neighbors farm, joining in a building project or cleaning up fallen trees.   

He enjoyed weekly trips to Shipsewanna and Topeka, Ind., hauling pigs and cattle with Farmer Brackman or Butch Opdycke to sell or bring home to raise, sometimes making two trips on the same day. Eventually his grandson Joshua came into tow and he was taught the process, even with the trip to the Cheese Factory and Yoder Meat Market to get cheese and German bologna that they would snack on the way home.    

Homer was an avid card player and never turned down an opportunity to play a game of cards at the family kitchen table, at Powers’ Station, Fayette Legion, Morenci Legion, card night with several local couples or many nights at Floyd Opdycke’s home. In recent years, Gary Rice served as his card playing partner,  bragging about how good they were. 

Homer loved his grandchildren and was interested in their activities, especially if it was a sport or a 4-H project. He was planning to attend the Fulton County Fair this year to see the great-grandchildren show their hog and cattle projects. Even though in his later years getting around was not easy, he always wanted pictures that he proudly displayed. He told everyone he met about the kids’ accomplishments. 

Homer is survived by his three children, Janie Keefer of Fayette, Jeff (and LaWonda) Keefer of Fayette and Kelly (and Tracy) Bentley of Fayette; seven grandchildren, Joshua, Tiffany, Kara, Brandy, Samantha and Quintin; and great-grandchildren Garrett, Brink, Monroe, Grant, Jasper, Kadrin, McKaya, King, Leo, Levi, Louie, Logon and Ezmay; brother Ed Keefer; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; brothers Harold and Curtis; sisters Bernice, Jeannie, Mary Lou and Luanne; granddaughter Amber Lea Stockman and great-granddaughter McKinley Jo Opdycke. 

Visitation is planned from 3 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 5, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. A private funeral service for the family will be held with burial to take place in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette. 

Memorial donations are suggested to the Fayette Volunteer Fire Association.

Brandy Anne Harris, 42, of Morenci,  Mich., died May 31, 2024, at Fulton County Health Center in Wauseon, Ohio. 

Born Feb. 21, 1982, in Morenci, she was the firstborn of Roger Harris and Barbara Anthony.

Brandy was a 2001 graduate of Hudson High School. For the past 12 years she worked as a third shift clerk for the Circle K convenience store in Fayette, Ohio. She was beloved by her co-workers and her customers, whom she loved to socialize with.

Brandy loved to read and watch game shows, especially Wheel of Fortune. She had a lifelong passion for kids, and she was a mother to many throughout the years. Brandy was fun, lovable, and very outgoing, always going out of her way to engage with anyone she encountered.

Brandy is survived by her mother Barbara Rinaldi of Standish, Mich.; brother Roger Dean (and Audrey) Harris II of Morenci; nieces and nephews Logan, Morgan, Dominic, Aleeah and Dylan; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family.

Cremation will take place and inurnment will be made alongside her father in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci. Services will be announced at a later date.

Arrangements were made with Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci. Memorial donations are suggested via the crowdfunding Tribute Fund link on her obituary page. 

Robert James Burroughs, 92, of Lyons, Ohio, and recently of Genacross Lutheran Services in Napoleon, Ohio, died May 28, 2024.

He was born Sept. 2, 1931, in Toledo, Ohio, to William and Lousie (Meehle) Burroughs. Robert graduated from Lyons High School in 1950. Shortly after high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served from 1952 to 1954 during the Korean War. On Oct. 6, 1957, he married  Jane (Frey) Burroughs, who died Feb. 5, 2024.

Robert was a proud member of the Plasterers Union #866 where he worked for more than 40 years and was a member for 67 years. All his life he had a passion for farming. He was also a gun enthusiast, antique collector and a huge OSU Buckeye fan. Robert also will be remembered for his time volunteering with the Boy Scouts and Little League Baseball.

Robert is survived by sons William Burroughs of Toledo, Joel (and Tamera) Burroughs of Lyons, Brian (and Marcia Cole) Burroughs of Adrian, Mich., and Darren (and Kelly) Burroughs of Lyons; very close family Rosalind and Chuck Allen; grandchildren Jessica (and Kyle) Cole-Jackson, Travis Cole, Joshua (and Krystal Long) Burroughs, Justin (and Katlynn) Burroughs, Taylor Burroughs and Lindsay (and Brandon Smith) Burroughs; and great-grandchildren Nevaeh Jackson, William Cole, Anna Long, Colton Long, Brooklyn Burroughs, Bennett Burroughs, Nimsey Burroughs, Sessiey Burroughs, Wyatt Burroughs, Wyler Burroughs, Sid Smith and Elowyn Smith.

A private graveside service for Robert and Jane will be scheduled at a later date at Lyons Cemetery.

Arrangements were provided by Barnes Funeral Chapel and Crematory. Memorial donations are suggested to Lyons Fire and Rescue, 409 W. Morenci St., Lyons, Ohio 43533.

Barbara Jo Foss, 70, of Fremont, Ind.,  and formerly of Morenci, Mich., died May 8, 2024.

Barb was born Oct. 8, 1953, in Chatham, Ontario, Canada, the daughter of Morgan Presack Smith and Catharine Francis (Gallagher) Smith.

Barb was a devoted mother, grandmother, wife, sister, aunt and a cherished friend to many. Raised in East Lansing, Mich., she loved the Spartans. She and her husband Kevin raised their family in Morenci. She was a member of the PTO, and met many dear friends while her children were in school. When her children were grown, Barb and Kevin moved to Clear Lake, their favorite place on earth.

Her family was the center of her universe, and she showed unwavering love and support for each member. Whether cheering on at sporting events, attending school functions, or celebrating milestones, she was always there.

She possessed a talent for sewing and found joy in creating. Barb and her sister Maureen began Beeyond Paper where they could help create beautiful pieces for their clients. She was known for her love of good food and great desserts. Her love for pink was a reflection of her vibrant personality, and it was evident in every aspect of her life.

Her kindness, passion and genuine presence will be dearly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

In addition to Kevin, her husband of 38 years, Barb is survived by children Sean (and Shannon) Smith, Kevin (and (Lyndsey) Foss II, and Molly (and Rhett) Figley; seven grandchildren, Hailey, Gabriel, Natalie, Liam, Rogan, Eliza and Ruby; sisters Cathy (and Don) Schroeder  and  Maureen (and Bob) Phelps; and many nieces and nephews.

She was proceeded in death by her brother, Morgan Smith. 

Visitation is planned from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, May 13, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated by Father Stephen Stanbery at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 14, at Holy Trinity Catholic Parish in Assumption. Rite of Committal will follow in Our Lady of Fatima Cemetery.

Kelly Jeanne Zuvers, 58, of Morenci, Mich., died May 8, 2024, at Fulton Manor in Wauseon, Ohio.

Born Aug. 9, 1965, in Morenci, she was the oldest child of Jack and Georgia (Ford) Zuvers. Born with Down Syndrome, Kelly was one of the first graduates with special needs to receive a diploma from Morenci Area Schools. She graduated in 1986 and was a lifelong Morenci resident.

During high school, Kelly began employment as a dishwasher at the Village Inn restaurant, where she worked several days a week for more than 25 years. She was a faithful member of Medina Federated Church and a lifetime member of the Hope Community Center in Adrian. 

A creature of habit, Kelly was regimented in her daily routines. She loved watching scary movies and was a fan of several television series including “Dukes of Hazard,” “The Waltons,” and “Little House on the Prairie.” She enjoyed  reading so much that she took a book nearly everywhere she went. She also enjoyed playing video games. Eating was one of her favorite activities, and she always enjoyed going out of town shopping, knowing the trip would reward her with a meal out. Kelly’s unique happy disposition and fun-loving personality touched the lives of many in her community, and she received just as much love as she gave to others.

She is survived by her mother Georgia Zuvers of Morenci; sister Kristy (and Mike) Shaffer of Morenci; brother Scott (and Natalie) Zuvers of Morenci; nieces and nephews McKenna Shaffer (and Dylan Leathers) of Odessa, Texas, and Mason Shaffer, Josette Zuvers, Emily Zuvers, Tessa Zuvers and Noah Zuvers, all of Morenci; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her father, Jack; a nephew, Garrett Shaffer; and all of her maternal and paternal grandparents.

Cremation will take place. Visitation is planned from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 14, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci, as well as on Wednesday morning, from 10 a.m. until the memorial service begins at noon, with Pastor Darren Lemmon officiating. Inurnment will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci.

Memorial donations are suggested to Hope Community Center in Adrian or Medina Federated Church.

Max Borton, 96, a lifelong resident of rural Fayette, Ohio, died May 7, 2024, while in the care of his family and CHP Hospice.

He born at home in Fayette on Dec. 12, 1927, to Paul and Olive (Cousens) Borton. Max married the love of his life, the former Paula Rose Robison, on Dec. 30, 1945, and she preceded him in death  Nov. 25, 2013.

Max was a 1945 graduate of Gorham-Fayette High School. He was a proud lifelong farmer. He faithfully attended the Fayette Christian Church-Disciples. 

Max and Paula enjoyed their retirement years at their home on Black Lake in Onaway, Mich., in the summer, and at Okeechobee, Fla., in winters. Children and grandchildren remember visiting at Black Lake, where they enjoyed fishing and swimming.

Surviving are four children, Greg (and RaeNel) Borton of Coldwater, Mich., Penny (and Dan) Creighton of Fayette, Gary (and Carol) Borton of Fayette, and Jennifer Borton of Wauseon, Ohio; 13 grandchildren, Jason, Andrew, Fielding, Wesley, Jadea, Mac, Abigail, Austin, Joshua, Jasmine, Lee, David and Allison; 28 great-grandchildren; a great-great grandson; two sisters, Helen (and Doyle) Sommers of Oregon, Ohio, and Martha Wyse of Archbold, Ohio; a brother, Dan (and Nancy) Borton of Columbus, Ohio; and sisters-in-law Iola Borton of Morenci and Beverly (and Roger) Knuckle of Fayette.

Max was preceded in death by his parents; wife of nearly 68 years, Paula; brother, Wally Norton; two sisters, Sharon Borton in infancy and Polly Rousch; brothers-in-law, Roland Turnow and Sparks Wyse; and a son-in-law, Randy Merillat.

Visitation is planned from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, May 11, at Fayette Christian Church-Disciples of Christ. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m., led by Pastor Craig Bard. A celebration of life reception will follow the service until 3 p.m. at the Family Life Center, 306 E. Main St., Fayette. Max will be laid to rest next to his wife in a private committal service at Pleasant View Union Cemetery. Arrangements were made with Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Fayette.

Memorial donations are suggested to  Fayette Christian Church-Disciples of Christ or the Fayette Volunteer Fire Association.

Nancy W. Boyd, B.A., M.S., Ph.D., 88, of Sylvania, Ohio, died May 2, 2024, at Otterbein Sunset Village in Sylvania.

Born June 10, 1935, in Hudson, Mich., she was the youngest of nine children from the union of Carroll and Mary (Dick) Cramer. 

Nancy lived her formative years on the family farm in Medina Township near the intersection of Munson Highway and Lime Creek Road. She attended and graduated from Gorham Fayette High School. Education was important throughout her entire life, and she received a bachelor’s degree from Bowing Green University, a master’s degree from Ohio State University, and ultimately earned a Ph.D. from Bowling Green State University.

An accomplished teacher, she taught numerous foreign languages at Northview High School in Sylvania, Tecumseh High School and Toledo Public Schools, before serving as a English literature professor at her alma mater, BGSU.

Throughout her life, Nancy had a passion for reading, and enjoyed cooking and knitting. She was blessed with various travels abroad, including visiting France and Norway. She possessed a lifelong admiration for her father’s farm and the farmers’ way of life, not only in the way they provided for their family, but in being good stewards of the earth’s natural resources. Her early life on the farm fostered her lifelong love of animals, as well as strong values that she put into practice in raising her family. She was known as a loving and wonderfully encouraging mother and grandmother.

Nancy married the love of her life, Merle T. Boyd, on June 13, 1959, at the Morenci First Congregational Church. Her husband of nearly 65 years survives. Also surviving are their four sons, Greg Boyd of Riga, Mich., Jeff (and Julianne) Boyd of Toledo, Scott (and Krista) Boyd of St. Paul, Minn., and Michael (and Nora) Boyd of Minneapolis, Minn.; 12 grandchildren, Ivan, Tony, Mitch, Noah, Anna, Taylor, Parker, Lauren, Matilda, Molly, Elliot and Vivienne. 

She was preceded in death by her eight siblings, Arlo Cramer, Virginia Zehnfennig, Ivan Cramer, Lynn Cramer, Valewayne Cramer, Ruby Brito, Carlloyd Cramer and Norville Cramer.

Visitation is scheduled at noon Monday, May 6, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci until the funeral service begins at 2 p.m., with Pastor Gregg Morrison officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

Luella M. McCaskey, 92, formerly of Morenci, Mich., died April 25, 2024, at Cambrian Memory Care in Tecumseh, Mich. 

She was born Oct. 25, 1931, in Flint, Mich., to Harold C. and Vivian (Shadbolt) Swartzendruber. On April 12, 1952, she married Robert McCaskey in Berkey, Ohio. He preceded her in death May 15, 2016.

Luella was a graduate of Waldron High School. A homemaker most of her life, Luella also worked for five years at the Morenci Rubber Products and for five years at the Fauver Molding Company. She loved to dance, and in years past she made time to attend dances up to three times a week. Luella also had a lifelong love of reading. She was an active member of the Morenci Eagles Lodge, Morenci American Legion, and the Wauseon Elks Club. 

Luella is survived by daughters Sandra Partee of Adrian and Teri (and Vic) Ford of Vista, Calif.; brothers Harold “Chuck” Swartzendruber of Springfield, Mo., and Richard (and RuthAnn) Swartz of Garrett, Ind.; four grandchildren, Brock (and Laura-Anne), Nikki (and Martin), Britt (and Joe), and Monique (and Brian); and two great-grandchildren, Beckett and Collin.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and sister Phyllis Woodby. 

Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 4, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci, with Rev. Larry Betz officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery. Visitation is planned from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Stair District Library or Careline Hospice.

Miss Kristi Lynn Kerns, 46, of Morenci, Mich., died April 24, 2024, at Hospice of Lenawee.

Kristi was born Nov. 21, 1977, in Adrian, Mich., to John and Anna (Gifford) Kerns.

Kristi is remembered fondly by her friends and family, who she loved spending time with. She was known to be kindhearted and outgoing, if ornery at times, with a beautiful smile that would light up the room. Her kind nature also extended to her love of animals, especially her miniature Siberian Husky, Sissy. In her free time, she enjoyed arts and crafts.

Kristi is survived by her parents John and Anna Kerns; brother John (and Sonya) Kerns Jr.; sisters Carrie (and Kevin) Drow and Wendy (and Nathan Darm) Kerns; many aunts and uncles; and several nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death are her paternal grandparents Clarence and Mary Kerns, and maternal grandmother Dorothy Webber.

Cremation has taken place. No services are planned at this time.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Lenawee Humane Society. 

Arrangements were made with Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci.

Dorothy Woodring, 90, of Lyons, Ohio, died April 19, 2024. 

She is survived by children Linda (and James) Arthur, Shirley (and Daniel) Schroeder, George (and Mary) Woodring and Dawn Woodring; grandchildren Jason, Jennifer, Brandi, Julianne, Daniel, Emily and Katie; great-grandchildren Rebecca, Lauren, Ethan, Jalynn, Lila and Jenson; and great-great-grandchildren Cadyn, Layla, Elana and Lelynd.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Nina Blosser (Campbell) and Park Blosser. 

A celebration of life will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 4, at Lyons Christian Church.

Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Northwest Ohio or Lyons Christian Church.

Jacquelyn Ann McAdams, 82, of Fayette, Ohio, died April 20, 2024, at Ayden Healthcare of Wauseon, Ohio.

She was born Nov. 15, 1941, in Hudson, Mich., the daughter of Edward Jack and Ruth Lucille (Waite) Fox. Raised in Morenci, she was a 1960 graduate of Morenci Area Schools.

Jackie was a longtime clerk at Meijer in Sylvania, Ohio, until her retirement in November 2012. She enjoyed spending time tending to her garden and watching sports. In later years, nothing brought her more joy than being in the company of her grandchildren.

Surviving are her three sons, Tracy (and Cindy) Mitchell of Pickerington, Ohio, Troy (and Kelly) Mitchell of New Lenox, Ill., and Todd (and Amy) Mitchell of Fayette; a sister, Renee (and John) Sutherland of Indianapolis, Ind.; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two husbands, Orvale Leininger and Rich McAdams.

Cremation will take place and no public services are planned. 

Arrangements are under the direction of Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Fayette.

Charles F. Sandusky, 84, of Morenci, Mich., died April 16, 2024, at the Hospice of Lenawee Residence.

He was born July 22, 1939, in Toledo, Ohio, to Howard W. and Ethel F. (Shatto) Sandusky. Charles married Phyllis Daisher on Aug. 14, 1965, in Adrian, Mich., and she survives. 

Charles earned a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Toledo and worked as an electrical engineer with Toledo Scale. Charles also partnered with SSOE out of Toledo.  He owned and operated his own business, Chuck’s Alternator Repair Service.

He was a member of St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church in Adrian and of the American Society for Electrical and Electronics Engineering. He enjoyed farming and hunting.

In addition to his wife, Charles is survived by son David (and Erica) Sandusky; daughters Laura (and Brandon) Stover, Natalie (and Scott) Zuvers and Angela Sandusky; sisters Dorothy (and Jerry) Jeffrey and Sue Daisher; his pride and joy grandchildren Austin, Braylon, Josette, Emily, Tessa, Noah, Aubrie, Nathan and Aria; sisters-in-law Kathy Pryor and Lillian (and Jerry) Dils; and brother-in-law Philip (and Carol) Daisher.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Eugene Sandusky; and brothers-in-law Robert Daisher and Thomas Pryor. 

Visitation is planned from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday, April 21, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home – Morenci Chapel.  Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Monday, April 22, with visitation one hour prior, also at the funeral home. Pastor Brian Keller will officiate and interment will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested  to St. Stephen Evangelical Lutheran Church, Hospice of Lenawee, or Wounded Warrior Project.

Lynn William Elarton, 84, a resident of of Temperance, Mich., for more than 50 years, formerly of Morenci, Mich., died April 5 at the Hospice Center of Northwest Ohio, after many health complications.

Lynn was born in 1939 to Earl and Evelyn Elarton. He grew up on a farm and enjoyed the small-town life, with its simplicity and friendships. Lynn was a veteran of the United States Army, serving in Hanoi, Germany, from 1955-57. He also worked as assistant superintendent serving the City of Morenci for years before becoming a wallpaper hanger and professional painter. He was employed with Chas. F. Mann Painting of Toledo, Ohio, and was a member of the Painter Union Local 7.

In 1991, Lynn was involved in a horrific auto accident, which left him with many injuries, including a closed head injury. After a year of rehabilitation, Lynn fought his way back to independence through hard work, determination, and a lot of therapy. He enjoyed refinishing antique furniture and his family and friends throughout his life. He worked on the most challenging crossword puzzles and enjoyed reading the news.

In 2015, Lynn moved to Temperance to be closer to his son for increased help and care. Lynn resided at Moongate Senior Apartments during his eight years in Temperance. There, he made many new friends. He also became friends with many people from Compelled Church in Temperance, the church where his son, Rev. Nate Elarton, is the lead pastor and founder. He loved his Wednesday morning visits with his friend Al Lawrence and others who would stop in, bring food, and check on him.

Lynn loved his family and stayed connected through phone calls and visits. He will be remembered for his work ethic, quick wit, and fantastic storytelling ability. He was a kind, generous, loving friend, dad, brother and grandpa. He was constant and always available.

Lynn is survived by the kids he had or raised as his own, Nathan (and Wendy) Elarton, Pam (and Kevin) Arquette, Mark (and Tricia) LeVeck, and Amy (and Bob) Boothman, son-in-law Mike Fee, daughter-in-law Darlene LeVeck; brothers Dennis and Larry (and Bonnie) Elarton; sister Karen (and Larry) Kast; 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren dearly.

Lynn was preceded in death by his parents; brother Alan; his former wife and friend Patricia Murphy; stepsons Patrick Green and Steve LeVeck; and grandchildren Amber Darcie Fee and Josh LeVeck.

The family will have a private graveside service at a later date.

Jacqueline Overmyer, 86, of Morenci, Mich., died March 26, 2024, at Hospice Home of Lenawee.

She was born April 20, 1937, the daughter of John (Jack) and L. Eloise (Schang) Love of Fayette, Ohio.

She married Clyde J. Overmyer on March 28, 1958, enjoying more than 45 years together before his death in 2003.

Jacqueline traveled extensively with her family through the 1970s, visiting most states. She was an avid reader and an accomplished crafter. She especially loved knitting and beading intricate designs. She attended the Morenci United Methodist Church and created projects with the Crafty Ladies group.

She is survived by her only child,  Sabrina (and Lee) Schultz of Tecumseh.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.

There will be no service and burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci.

Arrangements were made with Purse Martinez Funeral Home of Tecumseh.

Roger Carl Beaverson, 85, of Belle Center, Ohio, died March 15, 2024, at Dublin Methodist Hospital.

Roger was born Oct. 19, 1938, in Fayette, Ohio, to Carl and Grace (Zuvers) Beaverson. Roger married Brenda Sullivan on April 28, 1967, at the Belle Center United Presbyterian Church, and she survives.  

A veteran of the U.S. Army, Roger served in Korea during the Vietnam Era.  After moving from northwest Ohio to Belle Center in 1965, Roger worked at the Herald-Voice newspaper for many years. He was a member of and deacon at the Belle Center United Presbyterian Church, a member of the American Legion Willard Stout Post 266 in Belle Center, and a co-founder of the Murray Griffin Memorial Park, also in Belle Center.

Roger was a fan of all sports, but especially loved baseball. He attended the George Barr Baseball Umpire School in Lakewood, Fla., and from there went on to umpire in the Minor Leagues for a time. He enjoyed following the University of Cincinnati Bearcats football and basketball programs as well as the Cincinnati Reds.

Roger loved pets, and always insisted on having a house dog or cat as well as many outside. After retiring from Honda in 2004, he very much enjoyed driving for his friends in the Belle Center Amish community. After his daughter’s diagnosis of Lupus SLE, Roger organized and hosted an annual Lupus Golf Outing fund-raiser for many years.

In addition to his wife, Roger is survived by children Sheri Lynn (and Steve) Deerhake of Columbus, Ohio, Gregory James (and Wendy) Beaverson of Woodstock, Ohio, and Derin Carl (and Mayla) Beaverson of Rushsylvania, Ohio; five grandchildren, Gracie, Megan, Emily, Henry and Maya Beaverson; five sisters, Doris Leininger of Quincy, Mich., Carol Pfund of Wauseon, Ohio, Mary Ferris of Morenci, Mich., Mabel Hudson of Delta, Ohio, and Glenda Towers of Fayette. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Russell Beaverson.

Funeral services were March 22, at Belle Center United Presbyterian Church. Burial followed in Fairview Cemetery, Belle Center, with veteran honors provided by members of the Logan County Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, P.O. Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD  21741-5014.

Jack E. Sterling, 69, of Morenci, Mich., died March 25, 2024, at ProMedica Toledo Hospital after a lengthy illness.

Jack was born Nov. 16, 1954, in Hudson, Mich., to Richard E. and Blanch I. (Wilcox) Sterling. He attended and graduated from Morenci Area High School, and almost immediately entered the United States Air Force, serving his country for 20 years. While in the Air Force, he married Patricia Ryan in Banbury, Oxfordshire, England, and she survives. Upon return to the United States, he worked at several businesses, eventually retiring from SKD in Jonesville,  Mich.

In his free time, Jack loved to tinker in his garage with a Budweiser in his hand, while listening to the radio. He was also a big dreamer, with plans this spring to grow a garden big enough to feed Morenci. He loved fishing and being on the boat, even though he was afraid of water. He loved his dogs and anything to do with family getting together.

Jack is survived by his wife Trish; children Stephen (and Farra) Ryan, Lucie Mansfield, James (and Casey) Ryan, and Kim Sterling; grandchildren Evan Mansfield, Grace Ryan, Landon Mansfield, River Ryan, Logan Ryan, Remi Ryan, Ryder Ryan, Ridge Ryan, Alex Kendrick and Shawn Kendrick; four great-grandchildren; sister Kathy (and Larry) Cheesbro; and many nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; son Jason Sterling; and sisters Linda Sterling, Karen Johnson and Peggy Birr.

 Visitation is planned from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, April 1, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci.  Memorial services will will begin at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 2, also at the funeral home. Interment of his cremated remains will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for future designation.

Donna Fay Thompson, 73, of rural West Unity, Ohio, died March 23, 2024, in the comfort of her home surrounded by her loving family, while under the compassionate care of Elara Caring Hospice.

Born July 31, 1950, in Wauseon, Ohio,  Donna was the second oldest of seven children to the union of Franklin Monroe and Doris Mae (Short) Stamm. 

Donna grew up on a farm in northern Henry County and attended Archbold High School, where she earned a diploma in 1968. She married Larry Lowell Thompson on Sept. 26, 1970, at Central Mennonite Church in Archbold. They were blessed with three children and enjoyed over 53 years of companionship and cherished memories.

Having a lifelong passion for children, Donna’s home was renowned in the local West Unity and Fayette communities as a loving haven for babysitting those of working parents. She also worked several years at Lauber Manufacturing. In more recent years, she was employed as a teller supervisor at the Farmers & Merchants State Bank branch in West Unity, from where she ultimately retired. 

Donna exhibited her creative talents in crafting dolls and outfitting them with her custom designs. Also skilled with the crochet needle, she is remembered for making and gifting blankets to newborns of her family and friends throughout the years. Recently she enjoyed creating picture art with diamond dots kits.  Donna was a kind, thoughtful and spunky woman who found great interest in keeping involved and informed in the lives of those she cared for. She approached life one day at a time, a mindset that helped her persist through the tribulations of her six-month cancer diagnosis. A peace-loving person, Donna vowed to never go to sleep at night harboring any anger or ill feelings; she was determined to always find resolve. 

In addition to her husband, Larry, Donna is survived by daughter Christina (and Larry) DeAngelis of Cleveland Heights, Ohio; son Clint (and Joni) Thompson of West Unity; five siblings, Diane (and Lowell) Nafziger of Goshen, Ind., Curtis (and Kay) Stamm of Archbold, Sammy (and Joy) Stamm of Chillicothe, Ohio, Susie Stamm of Archbold, and Judith (and Jim) Estel of Wauseon; five grandchildren, Madison (and Tyler) Gray, Samuel Thompson, Everett Thompson, Nico DeAngelis and Alessandra DeAngelis; and one great-granddaughter, Vaira Gray.

Preceding Donna in death were her parents; an infant daughter, Regina Thompson in 1971; and a brother, Terry Stamm in January 2024. 

All services will be private, and she will be laid to rest at Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette. Arrangements were made with Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Fayette.

Memorial donations are suggested to Cleveland Clinic Cancer Research or Elara Caring Hospice.

Karen Sue Londo, 75, of West Columbia, S.C., died Monday, March 11, 2024.

Karen was born Aug. 23, 1948, to Marvin and Marjorie Ely of Morenci, Mich., where she graduated from Morenci Area High School in 1966. Always a Spartan, Karen attended Michigan State University before graduating in nursing from Nazareth College. Karen was a lifelong learner, completing her master’s degree of nursing from the University of Michigan.

Karen was preceded in death by the love of her life, Douglas W. Londo. During their 52 years of marriage, Karen and Doug raised three children, Jeffery (and Julie) Londo, Marcel (and Bradley) Martin, and Amanda (and Justin) Stroud and three grandchildren, Judah (and Brooklin), Lucas and Adelaide.

Raising their family in Canton, Mich., Karen and Doug were blessed with lifelong friendships within their Mayfair Community. Leaving the snow behind, Karen and Doug moved to South Carolina in 2001 where Karen was able to retire from Self Regional Hospital in 2012.

Karen loved being on the water, reading, playing cards, knitting, traveling, returning to Michigan to spend time with her family and passionately following college sports, but there was nothing she loved more than being a wife, friend, mother and grandma.

She showed kindness and strength in everything she did, especially throughout her 40-year mother/baby nursing career.

A small graveside service will be will be held this summer in Michigan.

Ivan Russell Gillespie, 90, died March 6, 2024. He was born Sept. 28, 1933, to  Forest and Gladys Gillespie (Gleckler).

He grew up in Lyons, Ohio, and was the oldest of three children. Ivan married his beloved wife and high school sweetheart Joyce Lindsay in 1953. Ivan graduated as salutatorian from Lyons High School in 1951, the same year Joyce graduated from LHS as valedictorian. Ivan was very involved in high school activities including basketball, baseball and band. He was an avid builder of powered model planes, flying them over the cornfields near Lyons. 

After graduation, Ivan attended Bowling Green State University (BGSU), with Joyce moving with him to Bowling Green in 1953, after they married. While at BGSU, Ivan majored in industrial arts education, graduated in 1955, and became a certified teacher. At BGSU, he was a pitcher for the varsity baseball team, a member of the varsity basketball team, and a member of Phi Epsilon Kappa fraternity. 

After college graduation, Ivan and Joyce returned to Lyons where their two children, Dawn and Brad, were born. Ivan taught industrial arts and coached basketball and baseball at LHS. In 1962, the family moved to Traverse City, Mich., where Ivan again taught industrial arts and coached basketball at Traverse City High School. 

In 1966, the family moved to Nome, Alaska, where Ivan taught industrial arts and later became high school principal. The family later moved to Anchorage and North Pole/Eielson before Ivan and Joyce settled in Fairbanks, for 33 years. While in Eielson and Fairbanks, he served as principal of Ben Eielson High School, vocational education director for the Fairbanks school district, and principal of West Valley High School. During this time, he also served as a state board member for Alaska State Athletic Association. 

Due to Joyce’s health concerns, the couple moved to Anchorage in 2014, residing at the Alaska Pioneer Home. After Joyce’s death in 2014, Ivan moved to his last residence at the Primrose Retirement Community in Wasilla, Alaska. 

Ivan enjoyed traveling extensively with Joyce, visiting China, Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, Bora Bora, Venezuela, Panama, Aruba, the Bahamas, England, Scotland, Ireland and Europe. Hawaii was a frequent respite from the cold weather of Fairbanks and Ivan requested his ashes be partially spread there, joining his wife. 

Ivan enjoyed watching his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren participating in sports and other activities. Ivan loved his boat and enjoyed many fishing outings to Valdez, Homer and Seward. He had a lifelong interest in building and tinkering with things and always had a project in the works. Ivan was a skilled pool player, golfed seasonally until he was 89, and thoroughly enjoyed his lunch time crossword puzzles with his Primrose friends. 

Ivan is survived by his son Brad (and Mary Beth); son-in law Dick Weyiouanna; grandchildren Bradley (and Michelle) Weyiouanna, Jay (and Tina) Gillespie, Claire Cropper, Noah Gillespie, Audrey (and Brett) Kolb, and Grace Gillespie; great-grandchildren Esau, Skye, Matteus, Malcolm, Jameson, and Wren. 

Ivan was preceded in death by his wife Joyce; daughters Denise and Dawn; brother Doyle; and sister Carol. 

A Celebration of Life is planned at the Wasilla Primrose Retirement Community on Saturday, March 23. Memorial donations are suggested to the Bowling Green State University athletic program.

Joy Short, 86, of Fayette, Ohio, died March 16, 2024, at CHP Defiance Inpatient Hospice following a brief battle with cancer.

She was born at home in Defiance, Ohio, on Jan. 3, 1938, the daughter of  Clarence Joseph and Esther Marie (Walter) Hesselschwardt. She was raised in Defiance, where she also graduated from high school with the Class of 1956. After high school, Joy worked in Defiance as an operator at United Telephone Company.

Joy was introduced at a dance to Colenzo Jay Short, a resident of Fayette, and their instant attraction to each other ultimately led to marriage on May 30, 1958, in Delaware Bend, Ohio. Together, they raised four children and shared more than 63 years of wedded bliss, before his passing Oct. 15, 2021.

After settling in Fayette, Joy worked briefly at Wannemacher's Rexall Drugstore before assuming the role of bookkeeper in her husband’s business, Short’s Cabinet shop. This allowed her the privilege of staying home to perform her most important job—serving as a mother to her four children.

Active in her community, Joy was involved as a member of the Fayette Firebelles and the Child Conservation League (CCL). She was steadfast in her values as a lifelong Roman Catholic and she was heavily involved in her faith community, Our Lady of Mercy Church. She served her parish as a member of the Altar Rosary Society, a friendly hostess for its annual fall festival, and a Sunday Offering counter. She proudly volunteered for years at the St. Vincent DePaul Society.

Joy also enjoyed being outside doing yard work and gardening, each season canning and freezing the excess of her plentiful harvest. She was blessed with travels throughout all of the 50 states as well as several countries abroad. Over the last 20 years, Colenzo and Joy spent winter seasons at South Padre Island, Texas. There they met numerous winter Texans and formed tight bonds with them that led to gatherings together even in the summer months. She loved crossword puzzles and square dancing, and had a love for music.

Joy is survived by children Jerry (and Linda) Short of Fayette, Julie Schumacher of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Jon (and Judi) Short of Antwerp, Ohio, and a daughter-in-law, Brigid Short of Cincinnati; seven grandchildren, Kyle (and Mandy), Kurt, Kody (and Harley), TJ (and Erin), Sierra (and Anthony), Peyton and Alexandra; a step-grandson, Alex; six great-grandchildren, Scarlett, Mercy, Ryker, Tate, Amara and Enzo; and a step-great granddaughter, Nyara; siblings Jan (and Floyd) Layman, John Hesselschwardt, Jane (and Orville) Clark; a sister-in-law, Shirley Stuckey; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Joy was preceded in death by two sons, Terri Lee Short and Jeffrey Allen Short; a brother, James Hesselschwardt; and a son-in-law, Mark J. Schumacher.

Visitation will begin at 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 20, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette, concluding with a Rosary at 7 p.m. Joy will lie in state at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Fayette from 10 a.m. Thursday until Funeral Mass is celebrated at 11 a.m. by Rev. Father Bill Pifher. Rite of Committal will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery.

Memorial donations are suggested to Our Lady of Mercy Church Parking Lot Fund, CHP Hospice, or Heartland Hospice/Laurels.

Dillon Ellis Miller, 32, of Wellston, Mich., died March 1, 2024.

He was born March 27, 1991, in Corpus Christi, Texas, the son of Dan and  Amy (Robertson) Miller. He was a graduate of Central Michigan University with a bachelor of applied arts in sport/business management, with a coaching endorsement. He was employed as an operations manager at Caberfae Peaks Ski Resort. 

Dillon’s life was defined by his love for God, family, nature and adventure. He found joy in skiing at Caberfae, boating on Tippy Dam Pond and nurturing the flower farm with Mary. A lover of words, he enjoyed writing and connecting with new people. He had a soft spot for those with disabilities, volunteering for years with the Winter Special Olympics. As a youth basketball coach, he impressed on his players the importance of sportsmanship over skill. Dillon left a lasting impact on the lives he touched. He will be remembered fondly for his warmth, generosity, and zest for life. 

He is survived by his wife Mary (Stoner) Miller; children Luke, Lily and Elliot; parents; brother Riley (and Nicole) Miller; in-laws Will and Deb Stoner, and Mary’s siblings Angel (and Alan) Hager, Miranda Stoner, Matt (and Alison) Stoner,  and Claire (and Mike) Chapel. 

A Celebration of Dillon’s Life will begin at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 12, at the Blackmer Lodge at Caberfae Peaks Ski Resort. 

Memorials are suggested to the Go Fund Me Page (https://gofund.me/19f393c5).

Arrangements were made with Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Manistee.

Mary Esther Overmyer Merillat, 93, formerly of Fayette, Ohio, died March 1, 2024, peacefully surrounded by her family  at Fairlawn Haven in Archbold, Ohio.  

Mary was born Oct. 7, 1930, in Morenci, Mich.  She married Harold Harris on Jan. 10, 1953, in Angola, Ind. He preceded her in death in 1980. She married Donald Merillat on Aug. 4, 1989, in Angola. He proceeded her in death in 1998.

Mary enjoyed gathering with her many family members and friends. She had a passion for life and was loved by all.  Many called her “Grandma Mary” and “Candy Grandma.” She was a member of the Fayette Christian Church–Disciples of Christ, where she helped with Bible school for many years. She also was known for volunteering in the community. Her smile was contagious and she was full of life.

Mary is survived by three children, Eugene D. (and Elizabeth) Harris of Kenly, North Carolina, Susan Kahle (the late Mark Kahle) of Alvordton, Ohio, and Stanley H. (and Melissa) Harris of Archbold; step-children Carol Merillat (and the late Donald Merillat), Ronald and Susan Merillat, Jack and Rosie Merillat, and Mary Emma and Dennis Austin; 20 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, and five great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by two brothers, one sister and step-siblings.

Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 7, at Fayette Christian Church–Disciples of Christ in Fayette followed by a Celebration of Life service at noon, also at the church.  A graveside service and burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci.  

Donations are suggested to Elara Caring Hospice Care.

Arrangements were made with  Anderson-Marry Funeral Home, Adrian.

Joshua Douglas Anders, 33, of Wauseon, Ohio, died Feb. 29, 2024, at St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center in Toledo, Ohio.

He was born Jan. 18, 1991, to Paul and Theresa (Leonowicz) Anders. Josh attended and graduated from Tecumseh High School. He then served his country in the United States Army. On March 9, 2022, he married Stephanie Simpkins in Wauseon, and she survives. Josh was a plumber by trade.

Josh was a family man and loved to take care of his family in any way he could. His grandmother, Patricia Gloss, was the love of his life, along with his granddaughter and his K-9 son, Duke. He was the “mean” but very over-protective brother to Jessie.

Josh took pride in his work as a plumber and worked hard for everything he had, never taking a handout from anyone. He was a “firecracker,” a one-of-a-kind person who was very generous to anyone in need. In his free time, he loved anything Harry Potter and loved to play disc golf.

Josh is survived by his parents, Paul (Marolyn Perry) Anders and Theresa (Donald) Adners-Hughes; wife Stephanie; sons Eli Fowler and Nolan Fowler; daughter Kaydence (and John) Sawyer; granddaughter Greenlee Sawyer; sisters Jessie Anders (and Adam Warner) and Kayleigh (and Mackenzie) Moore; grandparents Dennis (and Phyllis) Anders and John Leonowicz; mother-in-law Carol (and Matthew) Dunn; father-in-law John (and Debbie) Simpkins; brothers-in-law Matthew (and Megan) Simpkins and Brandon (and Ashley) Frederick; sisters-in-law Haley Simpkins and Matea (and Kyle) Minion; nieces Piper Warner and Madelyn Barnhart; and nephews Crue and Case Simpkins, Grayson Warner, Kye Minion, Brody Frederick and Noah Moore. 

He was preceded in death by a grandmother, Patricia Gloss; and a niece, Miley Marie Barnhart.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 7, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Funeral services begin at 11 a.m. Friday, March 8, with Pastor Maryann Reimund officiating. Cremation will follow services.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for future consideration or through the crowd funding link on Josh’s obituary page.

Cecilia L. Hernandez, 91, of Fayette, Ohio, died Feb. 27, 2024, at Ayden Healthcare in Wauseon, Ohio.

Cecilia was born May 15, 1932, in Tuxpan, Mexico, to Enrique and Nicolasa (Vincencio) Lopez. She married Oscar R. Hernandez on April 22, 1948, and he preceded her in death in 2013.

Cecilia was known as an amazing cook. She enjoyed sewing, fishing and gardening. She was known to have a green thumb. Above all, Cecilia loved her family and was a teacher to all of her family and friends. Cecilia spent her life caring for her family and her home.

Cecilia is survived by daughter Minerva Rivas of Fayette; son John O. (and Tina) Hernandez of Delaware, Ohio; son José (and Becky) Hernandez of Wauseon; daughter Mary (and Dan) Halifko of Orlando, Fla.; son Ernesto (and Maggie) Hernandez of Toledo, Ohio; daughter Cecilia (and Charles) Crawford of Round Rock, Texas; daughter Maria (and Rondy) Yates of Brownsburg, Ind.; son Arturo (and Pam) Hernandez of Elyria, Ohio; and son Daniel Hernandez of Fayette; 35 grandchildren; 75 great-grandchildren; and 35 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Oscar; parents; sons Enrique and Alberto Hernandez; and siblings Eladio Lopez, a sister lost in youth, Macario Lopez, Donicio “Nicho” Lopez, Fransico Dominqez, Alberto Domingo, and Hortencia Domingez.
 Visitation is planned from 3:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 1, at Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home of Wauseon. A graveside service will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday at the North Pettisville Cemetery (US 20A), with Rondy Yates officiating.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family.

Sonja M. Morrison, 84, of Archbold, Ohio, and formerly Fayette, Ohio, died Feb. 23, 2024, at Fairlawn Haven Nursing Home, under the care of Elara Caring Hospice.

She was born Nov. 4, 1939, in Morenci, Mich., to the late Darrell and Martha (Riviere) Randall. On April 27, 1986, she married Robert J. Morrison, and he preceded her in death Jan. 11, 2015.

Sonja enjoyed keeping a tidy home and tending to her flower beds that adorned her yard. She supported and raised her four children on her own, working at the former Fayette Tubular Products for more than 42 years. Some of Sonja's happiest times were the years with her husband, Bob, and hosting her family in her front yard to view the Fayette Bull Thistle Parade.

She is survived by children Sherry (and Tim) Wagler of Archbold; Richard (and Ronda) Vereecke of Wauseon, Ohio, and Tracy (and David) Knisely Fayette; siblings Alice (and Dave) Lonis of Morenci and Jerry Randall of Fayette; seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Along with her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by son Stacy Vereecke and brother Paul Randall.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 2, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette followed by a  memorial service at 3 p.m., with Pastor Kim Repp officiating. Inurnment will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery, Fayette.

Memorial donations are suggested to Fairlawn Haven in Archbold.

Larry L. Hand, 75, of Fayette, Ohio, died Feb. 25, 2024, at the University of Toledo Medical Center, following months of ailing health.

He was born April 4, 1948, in Wauseon, Ohio, to Melvin “Fuzz” and Mildred “Mid” (Town) Hand.

Larry lived his early life near Birmingham, Ala., where he attended Hewitt High School and met the love of his life, the former Brenda Gayle Layfield. They married three years after first meeting on Jan. 5, 1968, in Pinson, Ala. Later that year, they moved to Fayette to be near Larry’s family, and together they raised three sons and enjoyed 56 years of cherished memories as husband and wife.

In Larry’s early working career, he was employed at Hayes-Albion in West Unity, Ohio, and Fayette Tubular Products before he was given an opportunity to work as a hearing aid specialist. Larry later owned and operated the Hearing Center of Northwest Ohio in Wauseon and Bryan, alongside his wife Brenda, for 17 years until 2019.

Larry loved classic cars and owned several throughout the years. He also liked to fish and golf. His main passion in life was his family, whom he was most proud of, and they ranked second only to his love for Jesus Christ, his Savior. He lived his life serving and loving others, and always exemplified Christian values.

In addition to his wife, Larry is survived by sons, Kerry (and Dianna) Hand of Ney, Ohio, Shawn (and Sheila) Hand of Fort Wayne, Ind., and Craig (and Stacy) Hand of Bryan, Ohio; four brothers, Melvin Hand of Austin, Texas, Tony (and Deana) Hand of Fayette, Mike (and Debbie) Hand of West Unity, and Ronnie (and Petra) Hand of Germany; grandsons Shay Hand and his mother, Sandy Lash of Kendallville, Ind., and Jesse Hand of Bryan.

In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by a sister, Sherry Dietrich, and a brother, Donald Hand.

Visitation is planned from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Friday, March 1, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette, with the funeral service beginning at 1 p.m. Pastor Dan VanArsdalen will officiate. Burial will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette.

Memorial donations are suggested to  the American Kidney Fund.

Grace Estelle Fish, 90, of rural Hudson, Mich., died Feb. 23, 2024, at her home, while under the care of Hospice of Hillsdale County.

She was born April 16, 1933, in Wood County, Ohio, to Frank and Grace (Williams) McCready. She married Frederick G. Fish on Sept. 1, 1957, and he preceded her in death May 27, 2016.

Grace lived her early life in Toledo and attended Waite High School. A farmer’s wife, she served her family as a dedicated homemaker, and attended the Medina Federated Church in Medina. She was formerly a member of the Top of Ohio Dulcimer Friends Band.

Surviving Grace are son J. Ben (and Polly) Fish of Hudson; daughter Marcia C. Fish of Hudson; two grandchildren, Carl R. (and Lana) Fish and their children, Benjamin and Lilian of Sandpoint, Idaho, and Lisa R. Fish of Hudson; sister Jewel R. Baldwin of Walbridge, Ohio; and brothers James E. (and Luci) McCready of Liberty Center, Ohio, and Donald D. McCready of Nevada.

A funeral service will begin at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 9, at Medina Federated Church in Medina, with Pastor Darren Lemmon officiating. Burial will follow in Lime Creek Cemetery in Medina Township. Visitation is planned from 2 to 6 p.m. Friday, March 8, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Hudson.

Memorial donations are suggested to Pacific Garden Mission in Chicago, Gideon's International of Hillsdale County, or Hospice of Hillsdale County.

James (Jim) R. Sproull, 92, of Palmetto, Fla., died Feb. 9, 2024.

Jim was born March 18, 1931, in Morenci, Mich., to George L. and Eva M. (Myers) Sproull. Following high school graduation (1949), he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force where he served as an aircraft mechanic until honorably discharged in 1953. He married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn J. Emerson, in 1951. Following military service, Jim and Marilyn joined in-laws Waldo and Alison Emerson as co-owners of Rapids Food Market in Grand Rapids, Ohio, where he was the meat cutter for 18 years. 

While in Grand Rapids, Jim was a member of Alva N Sidle Post 232 American Legion, founding member of the Grand Rapids Area Swimming Pool board, Zenobia Shrine Jeepster Unit, and an honorary member of Masonic Lodge 289. He also served the community as a volunteer fireman, later serving as fire chief. 

After selling the grocery store, the couple wintered in Florida for several years, and returned to Grand Rapids where Jim worked as a millwright for a few summers. Later he spent several summers working for Kenny Bostleman building log homes before retiring permanently to Palmetto, Fla., in 1990. He was an active member of the Piney Point community, and was a member of the Square Club. 

Throughout his life Jim's hobbies included restoring a Ford Model T, western square dancing, golf, playing cards and home maintenance. He was often called upon by family and friends to solve problems and help make renovations and repairs. As one of his children bragged, "My Dad can fix anything!" He also had the unique ability to read the newspaper, watch television, and take a nap—all at the same time. One of his favorite sayings was, “Now let’s not get all excited here.”

Jim is survived by daughters Susan (and Barry) Summers of Catoosa, Okla., and Michele Sproull of Marquette Mich.; grandchildren Lindsay (and Andrew) Metzger of Longview, Texas, Andrew Summers of Catoosa, Okla.; great-grandchildren Alexander and Ian Metzger, also of Longview, Texas; nephew Greg and nieces Gwynne, Gretchen and Amy. 

Jim was preceded in death by his wife Marilyn (2017); his parents; his brother Jacques; sister Jacquelin Ebersole; and nieces Becky, Jane and Gennifer. 

In accordance with Jim’s wishes there will be no memorial services. He will be laid to rest at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci, Mich. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to the following organizations: Grand Rapids Volunteer Fire Department (17706 Wapakoneta Road, Grand Rapids, Ohio 43522), Alva N. Sidle American Legion Post 232 (12580 River Road, Grand Rapids, Ohio) or Zenobia Shrine Jeepsters (8048 Broadstone Blvd, Perrysburg, Ohio 43551).

Glenn R. “Dick” Kelly, 93, of Morenci, Mich., died Feb. 14, 2024, at his home, under the care of Elara Caring Hospice.  

He was born May 2, 1930, in Fayette, Ohio, to  Elmer G. and Cula (VanArsdalen) Kelly. Dick attended school in Morenci, graduating in 1948. That same year he entered the United States Air Force and served his country until June 14, 1952. On Feb. 28, 1953, in Morenci, he married the love of his life, Marlene B. Bovee, and she preceded him in death May 8, 2015.

Dick worked for more than 42 years as a purchasing agent for Acco Cable Controls and then volunteered at Toledo Hospital. He was active in many organizations in his lifetime, including Scottish Rite Valley of Toledo, Morenci American Legion, a life member of the 40 & 8, a life member of the Order of Eastern Star, the Addison Defense and Gun Club, and he was a 32nd Degree Mason. He also served on the Morenci City Council and was a member of the Morenci United Methodist Church.

In his free time, Dick enjoyed woodworking, hunting and fishing, and he loved everything Notre Dame. 

He is survived by his companion, Mary Lou Collar; special friends Trula McClain and Cinny Tompkins; and many nieces and nephews.

 Along with his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Madalene and Gertrude.

Visitation is planned from noon to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 21, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Funeral services will follow at 2 p.m., also at the funeral home, with Pastor Greg Morrison, officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery.  Military honors will be accorded by the Morenci American Legion Post 368 Honor Guard. 

Memorial donations are suggested to Elara Caring Hospice.

LaVon Oliver Campbell, 93, of Fayette, Ohio, and formerly of Morenci, Mich., died Feb. 9, 2024, at his home, under the care of Elara Caring Hospice. 

He was born Oct. 4, 1930, in Sand Creek, Mich., to Roy Leland and Stella (Votzke) Campbell. LaVon graduated from Morenci High School in 1949, then served his country in the United States Marine Corp. from 1952-54. On Aug. 15, 1978, he married Marilyn J. Huntley in Tazewell, Tenn., and she preceded him in death on June 4, 2010. He worked at M & S Manufacturing in Morenci, retiring in 1995 after 45 years of service.

LaVon was very proud of his service to the United States, especially being a Marine. He was a life member of the Morenci American Legion Post 368, the Fairfield Masonic Lodge, and the Scottish Rite of Detroit.

He and his wife loved to travel, with Bronson, Mo., New Mexico, Arizona, and Arkansas being their favorite places to visit.  LaVon loved to golf, mow his lawn, garden, and make woodworking crafts. 

He is survived by children Rebecca Sue (and Stan) Shadbolt, Vickie Lynn Betz, Tom (and Bonnie) Berry, Brenda Kay (and Bill) Dickey, and Lisa Meyers; 16 grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren.

Along with his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Sandy Sue Berry; and his siblings, Julius Merton Campbell, Roy Campbell, Jr., Paul Campbell, Ellen Dvorsky, Phyllis Riviere, and Jean Marie Ives. 

Visitation is planned from 2 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 18, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 19, also at the funeral home.  Interment will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery, Fayette. Military rites will be accorded by the Fulton County Honor Guard.

Memorial donations are suggested to the Wounded Warrior Project or Elara Caring Hospice.

Karen Johnson, 67, of Adrian, Mich., and formerly Morenci, Mich., died Feb. 8, 2024, at Lynwood Manor Nursing Home.

Karen was born Nov. 16, 1956, in Hudson, Mich., to Richard and Blanch (Wilcox) Sterling. Karen attended school in Morenci. In July of 2021, she married Robert Johnson, and he survives.

Karen was baptized at Jasper Bible Church and loved her Lord deeply. She was a very caring person who loved to visit with people whenever she could. She could also be quite the jokester with her brother-in-law, Larry. Karen also loved to crochet.

In addition to her husband, Karen is survived by siblings Kathy (and Larry) Cheesbro and Jack (and Patricia) Sterling.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Peggy Birr.

Cremation has taken place and there will be no services. Inurnment of her remains will take place privately in Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci, at a later date.

Memorial donations are suggested to Lenawee Humane Society.

Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci is assisting with arrangements.

Jane Addams Burroughs, 86, of Lyons, Ohio, and recently of Genacross Lutheran Services in Napoleon, Ohio, died Feb. 5, 2024, at the Henry County Hospital in Napoleon. 

She was born at her parents’ home in Winameg, Ohio, on May 12, 1937, to Albert Frey and Sarah (Dunbar) Frey. Jane graduated from Wauseon High School in 1955 and married Robert J. Burroughs on Oct. 6, 1957, and he survives. 

After a brief time as a telephone operator, Jane served as a homemaker throughout her life. Some of her fondest hobbies included knitting, reading books, keeping up with local current news and spending time with her grandchildren. Most of all she possessed a generous heart, giving to organizations in need. As a proud cancer survivor, she was a sponsor of Relay for Life. 

In addition to her husband, Jane is survived by sons William Burroughs of Toledo, Joel (and Tamera) Burroughs of Lyons, Brian (and Marcia Cole) Burroughs of Adrian, Mich., and Darren (and Kelly) Burroughs of Lyons; six grandchildren, Jessica (and Kyle) Cole-Jackson, Travis Cole, Joshua (and Krystal Long) Burroughs, Justin (and Katlynn) Burroughs, Taylor Burroughs and Lindsay (and Brandon Smith) Burroughs; and 12 great-grandchildren, Nevaeh Jackson, William Cole, Anna Long, Colton Long, Brooklyn Burroughs, Bennett Burroughs, Nimsey Burroughs, Sessiey Burroughs, Wyatt Burroughs, Wyler Burroughs, Sid Smith, Elowyn Smith. 

Jane was preceded in death by six brothers, Robert, Herbert, John, Donald, Jim and Bill, and two sisters, Francis Emily Borysiak and Audrey Smith.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date at Lyons Cemetery.  Arrangements were made with Barnes Funeral Chapel and Crematory. 

Memorial donations are suggested to Relay for Life or Lyons Fire and Rescue.

Ryan Neal Hanawalt, 48, of Manitou Beach, Mich., died Feb. 3, 2024, at the University of Michigan health services in Ann Arbor  after a lengthy illness. 

He was born Oct. 5, 1975, in Morenci , Mich., to John F. and Victoria J. (Woodby) Hanawalt. Ryan graduated from Morenci Area High School and on June 27, 1998, he married Angie Atkinson at Rollin Baptist Church, and she survives.

He worked in the oil industry for Certarus on the Special Projects Team.

First and foremost, Ryan was a family man, spending any time he could with family. He was a lover of anything outdoors – whether it be camping, fishing, or hunting. He loved Michigan Wolverine football, and at Christmas time, would binge watch the Christmas Story and Christmas Vacation.

Ryan was known as a hard worker and a very down to earth, simple man.  He had a witty sense of humor and loved to make people laugh and smile. Ryan was a man who never met a stranger.

 He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Angie; son Chaise Hanawalt; daughter Cadence Hanawalt; brother Cody Hanawalt; brother-in-law Jeremy (and Liz) Bolenbaugh; sister-in-law Ashley (and Matt) Wilson; father- and mother-in-law, Parke and Penny Atkinson; aunt Pamela Rump; cousin Sherry (and Steve) Miles; and many nieces and nephews. 

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandparents Ford Hanawalt and Caroline Schoonover and Frank and Phyllis Woodby; and an uncle, Larry Rump.

Visitation is planned from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 12, at Anderson-Marry Funeral Home in Adrian.  Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 13, also at the funeral home, with Pastor Allen Muck, officiating. The family asks that everyone attending the funeral please wear University of Michigan clothing. Cremation will follow services.

Memorial donations are suggested to Angie Hanawalt for future designation.

Rebecca “Becky” Sue Bismack, 58, of Morenci, Mich., died Jan. 31, 2024, at home with the support of her family and under the care of Hospice of Lenawee. 

Becky was born April 14, 1965, in Morenci, the fifth of Richard Lloyd and Arleta “Donelda” (Edmonson) Ford’s six children. She graduated in 1983 from Morenci Area High School. 

For more than 20 years, Becky worked at Consumers Energy in several roles. She started out as a meter reader and went on to become a substation operator before she retired in 2021. 

On Oct. 5, 2002, Becky married Bill Bismack and they celebrated more than 14 years together before his death in 2017. 

Becky’s attention to detail and organization was evident in her meticulous lawn. She enjoyed mowing, mulching leaves and making sure no random sticks were laying around. You could drop by any time and find her house and truck in excellent condition, too. Becky was an experienced shopper in the Amish community with Shipshewana being one of her favorite places to go. She was also a collector of Boyd Bears. 

She was known as a very positive person and would often tell others how blessed she was in life. Her love and kindness radiated out to her family and friends. Becky was a favorite aunt who treasured the times spent with her nieces and nephews. 

She is survived by siblings Randy (and Lynn) Ford of Schoolcraft, Mich., Robert (and Kathy) Ford of Morenci, Roger (and Carla) Ford of Morenci, and Rhonelda (and David) Craig of Clayton; and many nieces and nephews.

Becky was preceded in death by her parents; husbands David McCullough and Bill Bismack; brother Ronald Ford; son Dustin McCullough; and stepson Kurt McCullough. 

Visitation is planned from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 5, at Wagley Funeral Home, Adrian. Services will start at 1 p.m. with Dr. Susan Liberadzki officiating. Burial will follow at Packard Cemetery in Seneca Township. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee.

Marshall A. “Mac” Clemensen, 60, of Fayette, Ohio, died Jan. 28, 2024, at Community Health Professionals Inpatient Hospice in Defiance, Ohio, after a brief illness.

He was born Sept. 28, 1963, in Morenci, Mich., to Marshall L. and Edith H. (Warren) Clemensen. Mac attended Gorham-Fayette Schools and Four County Joint Vocational School. He worked industrial maintenance at Sauder Manufacturing for 45 years. He also owned and operated Harry’s Tavern and tended bar at Melody’s for many years. Mac loved his kids dearly and he loved to have a garden.

Mac is survived by children Marshall (and Shea) Clemensen and Grace Clemensen; siblings Darlene (and James R.) King, Lewis (and Leslie) Clemensen, Susan (and Keith Sign) Ruffer, and Thomas (and Angella Lopez) Clemensen; grandson Mac Clemensen; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother-in-law, Derrick Ruffer.

Memorial services will begin at 11 a.m.,  Saturday, Feb. 17, at Fayette Christian Church, with  Reid Short officiating. A luncheon will follow at Fayette American Legion. Inurnment in Pleasant View Union Cemetery will be private.  

Memorial contributions are suggested to Community Health Professionals Inpatient Hospice.

Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette is assisting the family with arrangements.

Linda Hawkins, 75, died Jan. 27, 2024, in Archbold, Ohio.

She was born Oct. 7, 1948, to Allen and Agnes (Mickey) Shadbolt and graduated from Morenci Area High School in 1967. She worked many years at Fayette Tubular Products.

Linda is survived by her children Renee Hawkins of Morenci, Mich., and Richard Hawkins of Archbold, Ohio., brothers Steve (and Diana) Shadbolt of Owasso,  Oklahoma, and Mike (and Carole) Shadbolt of Hudson Mich.; sister-in-law Carole Shadbolt of Rogers City Mich.; granddaughter Macy; and many nieces and nephews.

She was proceeded in death by her parents; brothers Gary and Doug Shadbolt; and nephew Jason.

Cremation has taken place and no services are planned.

Marion Lester Mannschreck, 88, of Morenci, Mich., died Jan. 26, 2024.

Marion was born March 13, 1935, on the family farm near Morenci to the late Lester and Florence Mannschreck. 

Graduating from Morenci High School in 1953, Marion attended the agricultural school at Michigan State University before joining the Army. He always said he served in Japan for a year and a half during the only peace time our nation has known. He was proud of his service and developed a great admiration for the Japanese people.

Following an honorable discharge from the Army in 1957, Marion began farming on a small 135-acre farm. He eventually farmed 500 acres and raised beef cattle for 45 years. During the winters Marion worked in various factories until purchasing the Standard Oil Agency in Morenci. He ran that business for approximately 10 years and afterwards worked for Pennington Gas Company for another 10 years. 

Marion enjoyed playing tennis, ping-pong and golf. He enjoyed travel through much of the United States including Alaska and Hawaii, as well as in Japan, England, France, Mexico and Canada. Marion was always up for a card game and enjoyed cribbage, euchre and blackjack. While living at Brookdale Senior Living home in Adrian for the last two and a half years, he enjoyed jigsaw puzzles, Bingo, and blackjack. 

Marion was known as a hardworking, intelligent, loving and supportive man who possessed a great sense of humor.

He was a member of the United Methodist Churches in Morenci and Adrian.

Marion is survived by his children Jack (and Ruth), Jill (and Neil) and Beth (and Dan); nine grandchildren, Jennica, Inessa, Danelle, Garret (and Brittany), Lacey (and Jacob), Jeremiah (and Sara), Benjamin, Sarah (and Jeff) and Jonathan; eight great-grandchildren, Damian, Madison, Elizabeth, Liam, Amos, Ezra, Asher and Magnolia; four step-children, Tammy (and Brad), Don (and Lynn), Lisa (and Tim) and Jack.

 Marion was preceded in death by his wife of 35 years, Carol, and his wife of seven years, Lorraine.

A Celebration of Life is planned at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, at Adrian First United Methodist Church, 1245 W. Maple Ave., Adrian. The service will be live-streamed through the church’s website. A private burial will take place at a later date.

Thomas Henry Orban, 71, of Port Orange, Fla., died Jan. 24, 2024.

Tom was born March 6, 1952, to Eugene and Marjorie Orban (nee Myerholtz), of North Morenci, Mich. In his early years, he attended Sacred Heart Catholic School in Hudson, Mich., and then graduated from Morenci Area High School.

He enjoyed music, hanging out with friends at Lime Lake, and riding his motorcycle. He took a cross-country road trip on his BSA. He discovered why many students he didn't know would greet him by name – they knew him from his role in the school play – Tom Jones. He later attended Ferris State College, spent a summer in Atlanta, and in 1975 graduated from Michigan State University.

He remodeled a house with his brother John while both were in college. Tom enjoyed cooking, and was known to bake black raspberry pies, with berries picked from his back yard.  

Tom was a master carpenter. He built custom cabinetry and custom mouldings, and he worked on historical restorations, including the dome at University of Michigan Law School, which was a mosaic of exotic woods. He built his first home in Lansing, Mich., and his second home in Leslie, Mich. He constructed many beautiful pieces of furniture including tables, entertainment centers, hutches, a display case, and a roll-top desk which was a collaboration with his father who fabricated the sliding top portion. Tom worked with local builders, as well as through his company,  Bear Construction. He was a member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America.

Tom married Jacqueline Laird on Valentine's Day, and they were together for 33 years until her death in 2012.  After retiring to Florida, he enjoyed traveling, singing in the choir, and volunteer work at Catholic Church of the Epiphany. He was a 3rd degree member of the Knights of Columbus.

Tom was known as a wonderful husband, brother, and friend who is loved and missed by his family and friends.  

Tom is survived by brothers and sisters James (and  Chris) Orban, Liz Orban (and Frank Chao), Susan Orban, Deborah Orban, Rebecca Orban, John (and Laurie) Orban, Margaret Walker, and Paul Orban, and his dear friend Mary Carlson. 

He was predeceased by his parents; wife Jackie; sister Cecelia Orban; and nephew James Clay Orban. 

Funeral Mass will take place in Port Orange, Fla., and burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery, in Morenci.

James V. Brink, 73, of Morenci, Mich., died Jan. 21, 2024, at home surrounded by his family.  

Jim was born Sept. 5, 1950, in Wauseon, Ohio, to Virgil and Catherine (Baker) Brink. He graduated from Morenci Area High school in 1968 where he was the chosen Athlete of the Year. He also attended Jackson Community College and North Texas State University. He retired from General Broach in 2014.

Jim enjoyed playing softball and bowling but really loved to play golf. He was also an avid Ohio State fan.  

On Nov. 16, 1985, he married K. Blaker, and she survives.  

Jim is survived by daughters Nicole Wilhelm of Napoleon, Ohio, and Abbe (and Jason) Voigt of Midlothian, Virginia; three grandchildren, Lucas Wilhelm (and Dr. Grace Norden), Griffin and Aimee Voigt; a sister, Marianne (and Jerry) Hayes of Brooklyn, Mich.; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Harry O. Brink.

A celebration of life will be planned at a later date.  

Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee or Lenawee County Humane Society.

Vicki Ann Curry, 56, of Fayette, Ohio, died Jan. 15, 2024, at St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center in Toledo, Ohio.

She was born July 20, 1967, in Beckley, West Virginia, to Hallie and Geraldine (Cantley) Curry. She graduated from Marsh Fork High School in Montcoal, West Virginia.

The number one priority in Vicki's life was her family, especially her grandchildren. She loved to travel with her family, especially going back home to West Virginia. Vicki loved to fish and was very proud of her Indian heritage. Dwayne the Rock Johnson was another love of her life.

Vicki is survived by children Chancey (and Greg) Amos and Keith (and Sara) Curry; grandchildren Peyton, Sierra, Lucas, Savannah, Gauge, Tripp, Harleigh, Ryan, Dylan and Kaytlynn; great-grandchildren Brooklyn, Brantley, Colson, and Brine; and brother Johnny (and Debbie) Fernatt.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Timmy Curry; and sisters Rhonda Curry and Tonya Estep.

Cremation has taken place. The family will plan a Celebration of Life at a later date.

Arrangements were made with Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette.

Larry Dillon, 82, of Adrian, Mich., formerly of Morenci, Mich., died Jan. 19, 2024.

Larry was born Oct. 10, 1941, in Ameagle, West Virginia, the first son of Edgar and Etta (Stover) Dillon. He married Mary Saenz on Oct. 15, 1988, in Adrian, Mich.

Larry moved to Morenci, Mich., from West Virginia in 1954. Graduating from Morenci High School in 1954. He worked in Wauseon, Tecumseh and finally retired from Power Train in Toledo in 1996.

Larry loved his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He enjoyed watching Morenci High School boys and girls athletic teams and watching his grandkids play sports. Larry loved University of Michigan sports.

He would spend months at “The Cabin” in Canada. He and Mary really loved having friends and loved ones visit there. He always said, “I have the best in-laws and kids.” He loved taking friends and loved ones out fishing and watching the “big one get away.

He is survived by daughters Teresa (and Glenn) Hubbell of Osseo, Mich., and Pam (and Charlie) Schrzan of Britton, Mich.; stepchildren Mark (and Tina) Garcia of Tecumseh, Mich., Mike (and Sonya) Garcia of Adrian, and Michelle Dapprich of Adrian; and Brett Rothfuss who has been like a son for many years; 12  grandchildren, Chris Baughey, Kyle Baughey, Tyler, Trey, Tenley and Matt Schrzan, Ryan (and Nikki) Garcia, Tashina (and Austin) Went, Gabby and Gage Garcia, Joesph (and Victoria) Dapprich and Dillon Dapprich; eight great-grandchildren; brother John (and Tess) Dillon; and one sister Caron (and Dan) Punches.

Larry was preceded in death by ex-wife Linda Dillon and his parents.

Visitation is scheduled at noon Saturday, Feb. 3, at Seneca Community Church in Seneca, Mich., and a memorial service will follow at 1 p.m.

Arrangements were made with Anderson-Marry Funeral Home, Adrian.

Robert E. Derby, 70, of Lyons, Ohio, died at his home Jan. 18, 2024.

He was born Feb. 4, 1953, to Richard and Alberta (VanCoppenolle) Derby in Wauseon, Ohio. Robert became an ironworker in 1978. He was a longtime member of the Ironworkers Union Local 55.

Robert had a lifelong passion for cars. It was common to run into him at local car shows where he liked to show off his Trans Am and his Camaro. Robert’s vast knowledge of construction and automobiles made him popular with people who needed help, and he never failed to lend a hand. He often joked that he was busier in retirement than while he was working. When he wasn’t busy helping others, he enjoyed being outdoors, binge watching shows with his dogs, and spending time with his grandkids. He took pride in family traditions including the threshers convention, the Fulton County Fair, and Halloween.

Robert was known as a lover of birds and trees. 

Robert is survived by his wife Shelby (Call) Derby; brother Mike Derby and sister Jean (and James) Miller; daughters Sarah (and Chris) Harvey and Ashley Ehrsam; six grandchildren, Claire Druschel, Celia Druschel, Kendra Ehrsam, Megan Ehrsam, Bobby Ehrsam and Aaron Ehrsam. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and stepfather Arthur Haupricht.

Visitation is planned from 3 to 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 22, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci.

In lieu of flowers, consider hanging a bird feeder or planting a tree in his memory. Monetary contributions can be made to Hospice of Northwest Ohio or The Arbor Day Foundation.

Janet Dickerson, 70, of Waldron, Mich., died Jan. 12, 2024, at her home under the loving care of her husband.

Janet was born Oct. 8, 1953, in Wauseon, Ohio. She was a graduate of Morenci High School. On Feb. 16, 1973, in Morenci, she married Paul “Yogi” Dickerson, and he survives.

Janet enjoyed relaxing with a good book or her current crocheting project. She loved her fur babies and most of all her grands and great-grand babies.

In addition to Paul, Janet is survived by son David and grandson D.J. and Austin Dickerson; one great-grandson Kingston Dickerson; sisters Rachel Springstead and Susie Jarman; brothers Harold Schmitz, Charles Fenton and Leonard Fenton.
 She was preceded in death by her father, in-laws Dennis and Ovatta (Stover) Dickerson, and sister Gene Fenton.

Funeral services are planned at 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 15, 2024, at Eagle Marry Funeral Home, Hudson, with Pastor Mark Stivers officiating. The burial will be private at Lenawee Hills Memorial Gardens, Tecumseh.

Memorial donations are suggested to the Lenawee Humane Society.

Gary Driscoll, 80, of Adrian, Mich., died Dec. 30, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his loving wife while under the care of Hospice of Lenawee.

Gary was born Oct. 15, 1943, in Morenci, the son of Hal and Florence (Hunter) Driscoll.

Gary lived his formative years in Morenci and graduated from Morenci Area High School with the Class of 1961. He furthered his education at Adrian College and ultimately obtained a master’s degree later in life from Siena Heights University. He married the love of his life, Carolyn Oxenger of Morenci, on Sept. 4, 1966, in Fremont, Ind. Together they raised two children and shared more than 57 years of memories.

Never idle, Gary was a good provider for his family. He worked as an educator, first working at Waldron Area Schools and later Adrian Public Schools where he taught history, math and business. While teaching, he coached basketball and football in Waldron, and basketball at Adrian. In the 1970s Gary also started selling life insurance, and worked for Gleaner’s Life Insurance Company for decades.

Gary was an avid sports fan and loved to watch all televised sports. A successful businessman, he had a serious personality and enjoyed socializing with and helping other people. He was blessed with travels around the world during his tenure at Gleaners. Gary found peace at his cabin on Crystal Lake where he enjoyed listening to his oldies and country music while watching the eagles fly.

In addition to his wife, Carolyn, Gary is survived by daughter Kristy Miller (and Ed Lewis) of Somerset Center, Mich.; son Brandon (and Heidi) Driscoll of Kingsville, Ontario; sister Carolyn (and John) Messimer of Brooklyn, Mich.; grandson Ewan Driscoll; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Jeanette (and John) Leech.

Cremation will take place and private family services will be held. To best honor his memory, friends are asked in lieu contributing to a charity to pay forward an act of kindness to humanity.

Arrangements were made with Anderson-Marry Funeral Home, Adrian.

Patricia Sue Horning, 70, of Brooklyn, Mich., died Dec. 17, 2023, at Summit Park in Jackson, Mich., with her loving husband Michael Horning by her side.

Patty was born Patricia Sue Johncox to Ann and Wayland Johncox on Aug. 31, 1953, in Adrian, Mich. Patty graduated from Morenci Area Schools before earning a bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University. She began her teaching career at Onsted School District in 1975 where she first met Mike. Many years later they would reconnect and marry on Aug. 21, 2003.

Patty is remembered by many for her tenacious work in education as a teacher, counselor, administrator, and principal. Students, staff, and faculty from Onsted, Morenci, Lakeview (Battle Creek), Grand Valley State University, Siena Heights University, and the Jackson Area Career Center were enriched by her wisdom, leadership and care. Alongside Mike, Patty was no stranger to MSU football games or the golf course. She loved reading, scrapbooking and writing, and she enjoyed puzzles.

Patty served as secretary of the Fiat of America car club, president of the 9 Hole golf league at Heritage Palms, and a coordinator for the Jackson Trippers with whom she toured the country.

In addition to her husband, Patty is survived by her children Joshua (and Kelly) Spooner; Justin Spooner; Mike (and Ellie) Horning; Darcie (and David) Beebe; and Kristin (and Andrew) Dale; grandchildren Kennedy Spooner, Jackson Spooner, Dennis Horning, Nathan (and Kortni) Beebe, Jeffrey (and Ashley) Beebe, Colin Beebe, Megan Beebe, Adam Dale, Kay Dale and Ashley Dale; great-grandchildren Louisa Beebe and Brecken Beebe; sisters Kathy (and Mike) Zeigler; Marcia (and Mark Jarosemich) Ries; Brenda (and Tim) Long; and Karen (and Steven) Strain; numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and their children.

Visitation begins at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 20, at the Cascades Manor House in Jackson, with a Celebration of Life ceremony starting at 2 p.m. Memorial  donations are suggested to Onsted Kiwanis Community Foundation for the Patty Horning Scholarship, Onsted, MI 49265.

Janet Leona Vernier of Piedmont, Okla., peacefully entered her eternal rest with God on Dec. 24, 2023, in Oklahoma City, Okla.

She was born to Harvey and Gladys (Quidort) King on Jan. 5, 1935, in Mill Creek Township, Williams County, Ohio. She was a graduate of Chesterfield High School in Ohio.

Janet married Duane Owen Vernier, who was the love of her life, on May 20, 1955. Their marriage life verse was Joshua 24:15 “… but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”

Janet worked at Ohio Art Company in Bryan, Ohio, and then as a teacher’s aide in the Morenci Area School system in Morenci, Mich. In 1986, Janet and Duane moved to Bethany, Okla., and were blessed with the opportunity to work together at Bethany First Church of the Nazarene for many years prior to retirement.

Duane and Jan were blessed with six children who they raised in Morenci. Her children and family were extremely important to her, and she always looked forward to special times when the family would get together. Her family was truly one of her passions.

She enjoyed family vacations, gardening, reading, and building puzzles. She also enjoyed being able to spend time in Branson, Missouri, prior to retiring. She was a lifetime member of the Church of the Nazarene and an avid reader of the Bible with an unwavering faith in God. For many years she developed the Christmas and Easter service programs for Morenci Church of the Nazarene which were enjoyed by many people in the church and community.

She is survived by her husband, Duane; children Reginald Vernier of Newton, Ill., Stephen Vernier (and Rebecca) of Yukon, Okla., Ricky Vernier of Woodstock, Va., Cynthia Vernier of Piedmont, Okla., Pamela (and Michael) Schafer of El Reno, Okla., and Douglas (and Donna) Vernier of Warr Acres, Okla.; grandchildren Veronica Vernier, Kimberly Vernier, Andrew Vernier (and Tara), Austin Vernier, Travis Vernier, Tiffany Vernier, Tabitha (Vernier) Ferris (and Ben), Shawn Vernier; Christopher Schafer (and Jami), Melissa (Schafer) Morris (and Tyler), Sarah Vernier (and Corbin Brown), and Rachel Vernier; great-grandchildren Isabel Martell, Alena Whetherholt, Leo Vernier, Xander Vernier, Ricky Ferris, Jasmine Ferris, Elizabeth Ferris, Arianna Ferris, Merida Ferris, Jasymne Gurley-Dungan, and Jack Morris.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harvey and Gladys King, and siblings Gerald King, Marlene Mock Moriarity, and her twin sister, Janette Vernier; and daughter-in-law, Lorie O. Vernier.

Funeral services will begin at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 28, at Calvary Church of the Nazarene in Bethany, with Rev. Jim Hill officiating. Interment will be at Bethany Cemetery.

Roberta Jean (Bobbie) Betz, 69, of Morenci, Mich., died Dec. 10, 2023, at Toledo Hospital, surrounded by her family after a battle with cancer less than one year after being diagnosed.

She was born May 17, 1954, in Hudson, Mich., the daughter of Robert Huff and the late Shirley (Shay) Hall.

Bobbie was a 1972 graduate of Morenci Area High School and a lifelong resident of Morenci. She worked at the former Sheller Globe Sheridan manufacturing company in Wauseon, Ohio, for 27 years. After Sheridan, she worked at Lenawee Medical Care Facility in Adrian for almost 11 years where she truly enjoyed her interaction with the residents until she retired in 2019.

Bobbie had a smile that could light up a room and her most cherished times were spent with her family, children and grandchildren. She was a hard worker and did all she could to provide for and support her family. In retirement, she enjoyed gardening and canning during the summer months. Bobbie never turned down the opportunity to have her children and grandchildren over for tacos on Sunday.

She married Greg Betz on Feb. 14, 1998, in Laughlin, Nevada, and he survives. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her two children, Kellie (and Mark) Seyfried of Holt, Mich., and Brad Osborn of Morenci; her daughter-in-law, Melissa Osborn of Montpelier, Ohio; and three stepchildren, Mike Betz of Clare, Mich., Christina Betz of Adrian, and Brian (and Kristy) Betz of Morenci; her father, Robert Huff of Morenci; siblings Linda (and Fred) Dusseau of Yuma, Ariz., Vic (and John) Maginn of Fayette, Ohio, Allen (and Carol) Huff of Sand Creek, Mich., and Denise Huff of Addison, Mich.; sister-in-law Deb (and Rod) Rutledge of Florida; 10 grandchildren and one great-grandchild; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Bobbie is preceded in death by her mother, Shirley Hall; father-in-law and mother-in-law Melvin and Betty Betz;  sister Teresa Pontious; nephew Brian Gilson; and sister-in-law Sharon McDowell.

Funeral services will begin at 3 p.m.  Friday, Dec. 15, at Anderson-Marry Funeral Home, Adrian, with Rev. William VanValkenburg officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci. Visitation is planned from 4-7 p.m. Thursday.

Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or the American Cancer Society.

Roger Alan Wolf, 85, of Morenci, Mich., died Dec. 10, 2023, in the same 172-year-old farmhouse in which he was born, with loving family by his side.

Roger was born Aug. 8, 1938, the only child to Harold and Minnie (Thomas) Wolf. He graduated from Morenci High School in 1956. Roger was a tremendous athlete, starring in both football and baseball. As a pitcher, he once posted 21 strikeouts in a 7-inning game, for the first time in Morenci sports history.

Roger earned a full scholarship to Michigan State University in both football and baseball. His college sports career was cut short by the need to assist on the family farm. After returning home, Roger continued to exercise his competitive nature, trying out for the Toronto Blue Jays baseball club, and becoming a softball legend in southeast Michigan.

Roger dedicated himself to the family farm, primarily in partnership with his father. They raised multiple crops and animal species, but were best known for their work in the dairy industry. To grow in his knowledge of farming, Roger was chosen by MSU in 1969 to participate in a 30-day “Kellogg Tour” to learn more about worldwide agriculture. In his farming career, he saw the development of farming from horses to horsepower.

Roger possessed a tireless work ethic and was respected by his peers. He was a loving provider for his family and in his later years, Roger attended all the events he could to cheer on his grandchildren and support their many interests. 

Roger is survived by his wife of 62 years, Karen; children Wendee (and Russ) Schlarf, Wess (and Beth) Wolf, and Wynelle (and Joe) Grady; grandchildren Stuart (and Claire), Sawyer (and Susanna), Tasha (and Dave), Austin (and Naomi), Clayton (and Sierah), Hayze (and Bailey), Nate (and Jess), Natalie (and Will), Mackenzie (and Joey), Max and Makayla; great-grandchildren Isaac, Kylie, Rylee, Kree, Lander, Lorelai, Lovelyn, Loreina, Palmer and Baker.

Visitation is planned Saturday, Dec. 16, from 11 a.m. until the time of funeral services at 2 p.m. in Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci. Committal services and burial will follow in the family plot at Porter Cemetery on Packard Road.

Memorial contributions are suggested to any organization that supports the growth and success of the agriculture industry or Hospice of Lenawee County.

Wayne Estel Beaverson, 86, formerly of Waldron, Mich., died Dec. 6, 2023, at Maple Ridge Farm Assisted Living in Hudson, Mich.

Wayne was born Sept. 9, 1937, in Delta, Ohio, to Estel and Blanche (Balser) Beaverson. From 1967 to 1988, he was married to Darlene Stiles.

Besides farming, Wayne worked for various companies including Lugbill’s of Archbold, Campbell’s Soup Co. of Napoleon, MultiCast of Wauseon, Kustom Fit of Pioneer, and LaGrange Products of Fremont, Ind., where he retired on “9-9-99.”

Wayne is survived by his children, Randall (and Betty) Beaverson of Waldron, Mich., Lisa (and James) Wineinger of Reading, Mich., and Vonda (and Matthew) Peters of Port Trevorton, Pa.; 10 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; brother Ralph of Delta; sister-in-law Loretta Beaverson of Jonesville, Mich.; and brother-in-law Dick Nofzinger of Archbold, Ohio.

Along with his parents, Wayne was preceded in death by a brother, Clifford; five sisters, Marjorie VanPelt, Rozelle Sintobin, Maxine Shelt, Genevieve Nofzinger, and Dorothy Cogar; and a great-granddaughter.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 4  and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Funeral services, officiated by Jim Basinger and Mark Bankert, will begin at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 11, also at the funeral home. Interment will follow in Lauber Hill Cemetery, Archbold.

Frances Jean Fether, 91, of Morenci, Mich., died Nov. 24, 2023, under the care of Caring Dunn Right and Elara Hospice. 

Frances was born April 12, 1932, to Harold and Cecil (Dunn) Dilworth in Medina, Mich. She was employed as a secretary for a printing company in California for many years. She was known as a simple woman who loved her family very much. 

 Frances is survived by her son Kenneth Fether; daughters Susie (and Steve) Jones and Penny (and Brian) MacDonald; four grandchildren, Jason Fether, Alexander, Emily and Olivia MacDonald, and great-grandchild, Charleigh Fether.

Along with her parents, Frances was preceded in death by sisters Betty Price, Wanda VanArsdalen, Margaret Dilworth and Mary Burris; brothers Robert and George Dilworth; niece Debbie Jakeway; and nephew Ronn Burris.

 Graveside services are planned at 1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30, at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci, with  Rev. William VanValkenburg officiating. 

Memorial contributions are suggested  to Caring Dunn Right. Arrangements were made with Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci.

Harold W. Keefer, 89, of Morenci, Mich., died Nov. 16, 2023, at ProMedica Toledo Hospital.

He was born June 3, 1934, in Fayette,  Ohio, to Alfred and Burdella (Brink) Keefer, and was one of eight children. Harold attended and graduated from Gorham Fayette High School. On Aug. 11, 1956, he married Leona Mae Heimbishner at Canandaigua Community Church, and she preceded him in death on March 10, 2015. 

 Harold worked for many years as a millwright foreman and in maintenance at the former Morenci Rubber Products. After the business closed, he worked at Ohio Art in Bryan. In his spare time, Harold had an extensive construction hobby. He built his own house and several in Canandaigua, and assisted others with their building projects. His building hobby even extended to the construction of a four-seater boat which he loved to take out on the lake. Harold was a quiet and positive man, and had a propensity to be clever, witty and funny. He was very determined and finished most everything he started. He was a very dependable and reliable father figure and inspired optimism.

 Harold is survived by sons Steven (and Lorinda) Keefer and Ron (and Mary) Keefer; grandchildren Mark Keefer, Janelle Thomas, Valerie Sciotti, Ruth Keefer, Hannah Keefer and Lydia Keefer.  

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife.

Visitation is scheduled at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci on Tuesday, Nov. 21, from 10 a.m. until noon when the  funeral service begins. Pastor Thomas Frantz will officiate. Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery. 

 Memorial donations are suggested to Caring Dunn Right assisted living.

John Litteral, 85, of Fayette, Ohio, died Nov. 12, 2023, at Embassy of Swanton Nursing Home.

Born Nov. 16, 1937, in Greenup, Ky., he was the son of Rollie and Bertha (Howard) Litteral.

John worked for Faraday in Tecumseh, Mich., for 20 years as both a supervisor and a truck driver before retiring. In his free time, John enjoyed woodworking, fishing and hunting.

John is survived by his companion Dorma Eberly; sons Robert Litteral, Rollie Litteral and Ryan Eberly; daughters Cindy Litteral, Carla Horton, Tammy Mynhier, Dianna Coolman, Christine Hooks and Barbara Downing; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by brother Alvia Litteral; sister Evelyn Ponder; and daughter Robin Eberly.

Visitation is planned from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Hudson. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Friday at the Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Hudson, with Rev. Bill Van Valkenburg officiating. An additional hour of visitation is scheduled before the funeral service begins. Burial will follow the service in West Madison Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Heart Association or Alzheimer's Association.

Bryan “Pete” Richard Jones, 71, of Manitou Beach, Mich., died Oct. 23, 2023, from complications of Parkinson’s Disease.

Pete was born March 4, 1952, in Adrian, Mich., to Paul and Rosemary (Kaetzel) Jones. Pete attended Onsted Community Schools and went on to serve his country in the United States Navy on the USS Diamond Head and was released from tour of duty with Honorable Service.               

On Dec. 1, 1973, Pete married Hilda J. Moore at Medina Federated Church. They celebrated their upcoming anniversary with a cruise with family and friends to Alaska in July. They were blessed with four children and created many memories as their family grew.  

Pete had a strong work ethic, and he demonstrated this trait while working at American Chain & Cable for 10 years. From there he went to work at General Motors at the Delphi Plant and later Lansing Delta where he retired after 31 years.

When it was time to relax Pete enjoyed being outdoors, often camping with family and friends in Michigan, Ohio and Tennessee. He was an avid hunter in both gun and bow season and had the patience to fish year-round and a couple of his treasures are mounted in his home. Pete was a skilled carpenter and often had side jobs where he worked on building houses and finishing out trim work. He loved his family greatly, and you could count on Pete and Hilda being in the bleachers at their children and grandchildren’s school and sporting events. 

In addition to his wife, Hilda, Pete is survived by children Waylon (and Kristie) Jones, Jeremiah Jones, Amanda (and Daniel) Nadeau and Hilary (and Jason) Mead; seven grandchildren, Clayton, Genevieve and Gregory Jones, Hanalei, Coltan and Luke Nadeau and Jovyn Mead; brother Paul Jones; and brother-in-law Earl (and Teresa) Burgess.

Pete was preceded in death by his parents; brother Jeff Jones; in-laws Leo and Polly Burgess; sister-in-law Dinah Moore and brother-in-law James Moore. 

A gathering of family and friends is planned from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16, at Wagley Funeral Home, Adrian. Pete will be laid to rest privately at Oak Grove Cemetery at a later date. 

 Memorial contributions are suggested  to Autism GRACE of Lenawee, or Venmo to:  https://venmo.com/u/AutismGraceofLenawee.

Mildred A. Kime, 98, of Lyons, Ohio, died at her home Nov. 3, 2023. 

She was born in Morenci, Mich., on Nov. 28, 1924, to Truman and Eliza (Sands) Lowe. On April 15, 1940, she married Dale Skates in Wauseon, Ohio, and he preceded her in death in July 1974. She then married Howard “Stub” Kime in Morenci on Aug. 24, 1984, and he preceded her in death in February 2011.  Mildred worked for 39 years at Morenci Rubber Products, retiring in 1984.

 Mildred was a member of Lyons Christian Church. She loved being with her family, and in her free time, she enjoyed working word puzzles, sewing and crocheting. She was known for making her children’s clothing and wedding dresses. She and her first husband went square dancing every Saturday. Mildred traveled quite a bit with her second husband. She and Stub spent many winters in Florida.

Mildred is survived by daughters Sharon (and Duane) Peabody and Kathy Skates; 16 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; and 18 great-great-grandchildren; brother Maynard (and Liz) Lowe; sister Donna Holt; and special sister-in-law Emma Escott. 

In addition to her parents and husbands, she was preceded in death by children Jean Hallett, Dale Skates and a daughter in infancy, Janet; grandson Clint Nino; great-grandson Justin Rapp; two great-great-granddaughters in infancy; brothers Harold, Merle, Hal, Truman, Jr., and Vern Lowe; and sisters Zola Howard, Gleo Murphy, Opal Shoemaker and Dorothy Porter.

Funeral services will begin at 2 p.m. Monday, Nov. 13, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci, with Pastors William VanValkenburg and Heather Schimmel, officiating. Cremation will follow, with inurnment of remains at a later date in Lyons Cemetery. Visitation is planned from noon to 2 p.m. Monday, also at the funeral home. 

Memorial donations are suggested to Lyons-Royalton Fire Department.

Cheryl Dawn Cowgill, 76, of Main St., Morenci, died unexpectedly Friday, Nov. 3, 2023, at her home.

Born March 14, 1947, in Hudson, Mich., she was the only daughter born to the late Virgil and Vivian (Borton) Valentine.

Cheryl was a 1965 graduate of Morenci Area Schools and was a lifelong resident of Morenci. She earned her accreditation as an LPN, and served under the practice of several local doctors in Morenci and Hudson, including Dr. Whitehouse, Dr. Diccion and Dr. Shetty. 

A social butterfly, Cheryl never knew a stranger, and she could strike up conversation with anyone about any subject. She is remembered for her positive attitude and zest for life, and always keeping busy. She enjoyed crafting and was a skilled seamstress. She also loved reading a good book and tending to her many indoor and outdoor plants.

Cheryl married Ray Cowgill on June 30, 1991. He survives. Also surviving are her four children, Melissa (and Greg) Garrow of Wauseon, Ohio, Josh (and Marnie) Reynolds of Caledonia, Mich., Abigail (and Raymond) Newland of Wauseon, and Sarah Reynolds (Arnel) of Lapeer, Mich.; brothers Tom (and Julie Koehn) Valentine of Adrian, Jack (and Deb) Valentine of Manitou Beach, Mich., Kim (and Nancy) Valentine of Morenci, and Kirk (and Cynthia) Valentine of Adrian; 16 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren.

A memorial service is planned at noon Thursday, Nov. 9, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci, with Pastor Darren Lemmon officiating. Inurnment will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci. Visitation is scheduled from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday and from 11 a.m. Thursday until the service begins.

Beulah E. “Lizzy” Barron, 95, of Morenci, Mich., died Nov. 2, 2023, at Caring Dunn Right in Morenci.

Lizzy was born June 22, 1928, in Spruce Pine, N.C., to Roscoe D. and Ethel (Biddix) Dale. She married John Barron on Sept. 5, 1950, in Angola, Ind., and he preceded her in death Dec. 18, 2004.

 Lizzy was a member of the Medina Federated Church. She was one of the first reading mentors when the program first began at Morenci Elementary School. Lizzy enjoyed bowling, Bingo, garage sales and cooking homemade foods for her family. She loved kids and her “home was always open to anyone.” 

 Lizzy is survived by two sons, David (and Melodye) Barron of Fremont, Ind., and John (and Rachel) Barron of Morenci; one daughter, Diane (and Donald) Koyl of Hudson, Mich.; one sister, Barbara “Bobby” Dewyer of Knox, Pa.; nine grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter. 

In addition to her husband, John, she was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Zella Sallows and Ilene Farquhar.

 Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 7, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci, with Pastor Darren Lemmon officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery. Visitation is planned from 2 to 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 6.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Medina Federated Church, Caring Dunn Right, or Careline Hospice.

Lesley Nicole Taylor, 37, of Morenci, Mich., passed into the arms of Jesus at Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan, Oct. 31, 2023, with her loving family by her side.

She was born in Morenci on March 5, 1986, to Dwight and Ruth Ann (Jones) Mansfield. Lesley attended and graduated from Morenci Area High School and furthered her education by attaining a master’s degree in special education. On June 22, 2013, she married Scott M. Taylor, and he survives, along with their daughters, Quinn and Kinsley.

Lesley worked as a special education mathematics teacher at Blissfield Schools, then went to work for Lenawee Intermediate School District as a special education consultant. She is a member of Fayette Church of the Nazarene.

Family was most important to Lesley. Her husband and daughters were her life. Lesley also enjoyed being an aunt. She supported every aspect of her nieces’ and nephews’ lives. Lesley went above and beyond for those she loved. Her compassionate nature and desire to help others also showed in her teaching. She was available for her family and students day or night.

On Oct. 22, 2022, Lesley and her family received the devastating news that she had cancer. Lesley fought the disease, relying on her faith in Jesus Christ. For over a year, she never gave up on her faith and fight for life.

Left to cherish Lesley’s memory are her husband Scott; daughters Quinn and Kinsley; parents Dwight and Ruth Ann; brothers Jason (and Jody McCaskey) and Chris (and Amy) Mansfield; nieces and nephews Evan, Landon, Brynn and Bree Mansfield; father-in-law Mike (and Robyn) Taylor; mother-in-law Kim (and Phil) Pitters; sisters- and brothers-in-law Nancy Shamplo and her children, Josh (and Stephanie) Taylor and their children, Kendrick (and Kelsie) Taylor and their child, and Jessie (and Kyle) Kruse and their children.

She was preceded in death by her paternal and maternal grandparents.

Visitation is planned from noon until 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 10, at Fayette Church of the Nazarene. Graveside services begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci. Memorial services will follow the graveside service at Fayette Church of the Nazarene at 11:30 a.m. Rev. Andy Reynard will officiate.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family to be used for the future education of Quinn and Kinsley.

Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci is assisting the family with arrangements.

Richard Scott Odneal, 56, of Morenci, Mich., died Oct. 27, 2023, in his home.

Born Sept. 21, 1967, in Toledo, Ohio, Richard was the son of Charles and Patricia (Goodin) Odneal.

He was a 1985 Summerfield High School graduate and later earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the University of Toledo. He married Carla Borton on May 11, 2002, in Toledo. 

Richard previously worked for Monarch Analytical, Silbond Corporation, First Solar and Materion as a chemist. He enjoyed many hobbies including photography, hunting, golfing, playing billiards and riding his motorcycles. He also enjoyed the outdoors, attending concerts and discovering new restaurants.

He is survived by his wife Carla; son Levi Miller; sister Kerry (and Todd) Roach; brothers-in-law; sisters-in-law; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws David and Phyllis Borton; and brother Mark Odneal.

Visitation is planned from 3 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 2, at the Capaul Funeral Home, Ida, Mich., and from 10 a.m. until the time of service Friday at 11 a.m., also at the funeral home, with Pastor Ted Kerr of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Tecumseh, officiating. The burial will be in Pleasant View Cemetery, Petersburg, Mich.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Monroe County Humane Society.

Lisa Marie Keefer-Bible, 56, of rural Fayette, Ohio, died, Oct. 25, 2023, at the home of her parents while under the care of CHP Hospice.

Born April 18, 1967, in Adrian, Mich., she was the first-born daughter of Carl and Janice (Moyer) Keefer. She graduated from Gorham-Fayette High School in 1986 and was a lifelong resident of Fayette.

Lisa was known as a hard worker, beginning employment immediately after high school at Dana Corporation in Archbold, and working there until its permanent closure in 2011. She then attended Ross Medical and earned certification as a medical assistant. She most recently worked at ConAgra in Archbold. In addition to her full-time employment, she also worked part-time for several years at The Bake Shop near Fayette.

Always giving of herself, Lisa frequently volunteered at the Fayette Food Pantry. She was proud of her vast collection of souvenir shot glasses. Her greatest joy came from simply being in the company of her family and friends. Lisa was admired for her strong-willed determination, her selflessness, her gentle kindness to everyone she encountered, and her infinite capacity to unconditionally love other people. Lisa stoically faced her battle with cancer with unwavering grace, and she firmly relied on her faith for acceptance of God’s plan for her.

She is survived by her parents; daughter Miranda Bible (and Alex Conrad) of Fayette; sister Michelle (and Gary) Coon of Port Clinton, Ohio; grandchildren Kaden, Alice, Zoey and Xander; nephew Mitchell Coon; and numerous extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents Ada and Kenneth Moyer; paternal grandparents Denver and Bessie Keefer; maternal uncles Jerry and Burt Moyer; and paternal uncles and aunts John Keefer, Denver R. Keefer, Lorraine Patterson and Irlene Patke.

A funeral service will begin at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 1, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette, with Pastor Kim Repp officiating. Cremation will follow. Visitation is planned from 1 p.m. until the service begins. She will be laid to rest at a later date in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette.

Memorial donations are suggested to Normal Memorial Library in Fayette.

Arlene May (Call) Cutler, 85, of Morenci, Mich., died Oct. 26, 2023, at Hospice of Northwest Ohio, surrounded by her family.

She was born July 1, 1938, in Canandaigua, Mich., the only daughter of Jay and Norine (Harper) Call. On June 8, 1957, in Morenci, she married Larry Cutler.

Arlene graduated from Morenci High School in 1956 and was employed at Fisher Body in Tecumseh and then at General Motors Power Train in Toledo from where she retired in 2002 after more than 24 years of service. She was a member of the Canandaigua Community Church, the Morenci Eagles, and a past member of the Irish Hills Car Club.

She is survived by daughter Cheryl (and Kurt) Kornhaus of Lakewood Ranch, Fla.; four sons, Michael (and Lovina) Cutler of Morenci, Mark (and Gary Libak) Cutler of Escondido, Calif., Neal (and Candice) Cutler of Green Mountain, N.C., and Shawn (and Heide) Cutler of Brooklyn; eight grandchildren, Jayson (and Karen), Justin (and Deidré), Collin (and Jaida) Kornhaus, Michael, Nicole (and Brandon), Andrew (and Jordin), Christopher and Kyle Cutler; 16 great-grandchildren, Ethan, Lily, Charlotte, Nathaniel, Benjamin, Mackenzie, Alexander, Caden, Jacob, Ross, Wyatt, Waylan, Westin, Vivienne, Teagan and Taylynn; two sisters-in-law, Ruth Sampson of Pioneer, Ohio, and Cheryl (and Ray) Cowgill of Morenci; and several nieces and nephews.

Arlene was preceded in death by her  husband Larry; her parents; brothers Elwyn and Arthur Call; great-grandson Ashton Reid Kornhaus; sisters-in-law Betty Frederick and Alma Myers; brothers-in-law Dick Sampson, Charles Frederick, Richard and Gerald Reynolds.

Funeral services are planned at 2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 30, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci, with Rev. William VanValkenburg officiating. Interment will follow in Canandaigua Cemetery. Visitation is scheduled from noon until the time of service.

Memorial donations are suggested to Canandaigua Community Church.

Doris Lee (Moore) Crowell, 90, of Lyons, Ohio, died Oct. 12, 2023, at Fairlawn Haven Nursing Home in Archbold, Ohio. 

Doris was born on Oct. 16, 1932, in Appomattox, Virginia, the youngest of Robert William and Mary Elizabeth (Grow) Moore’s five children. 

She graduated from Appomattox High School in 1952 and became employed with the state in Richmond. It was during this time that she met Charles Lewis Crowell while he was stationed in Williamsburg as a Navy Seabee. Doris and Charles were married Nov. 27, 1954, and made their home in Lyons, Ohio. They celebrated more than 40 years together before his death Sept. 9, 1995. 

Throughout her life, Doris was an active person. When her children were young, she served as a leader for the Cub Scouts and Campfire Girls. She also served as Worthy Matron of Eastern Stars on two occasions and was a member for 60 years. Doris was an active member of Ohio Homemakers Community and Education for 60 years, was president (multiple times) of the Lyons Live and Learn Club and served on the O.H.C.E. council. She also belonged to and often served in leadership roles in the Lyons Literary League, Lyons Historical Society and Lyons Senior Citizens.

Doris’s patriotism was a central part of who she was, serving as president of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary for 19 years and as a member for 44 years. Doris was a member of the Lyons Christian Church and served as the service director for more than 25 years, often helping with funeral dinners. 

Doris treasured her family and the many memories they shared. She also valued her many friendships and church family. 

She is survived by children Steve (and Cindy) Crowell, Linda Blausey, Cathy Cordes, Robert (and Debbie) Crowell and Richard (and Laura) Crowell; 10 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents; husband Charles; a son-in-law; and two grandsons and a granddaughter. 

Funeral services for Doris were Oct. 16 at Wagley Funeral Home, Adrian, with Pastor Heather Schimmel officiating. Burial followed at Royalton Township Cemetery in Lyons.

Michael Patrick Prystash, 79, of Grove City, Ohio, formerly of Lyons, Ohio, died Oct. 17, 2023, at Meadow Grove Transitional Care and Rehabilitation.

He was born Aug. 28, 1944, in Youngstown, Ohio, to Michael and Mildred (Malter) Prystash. Michael was a United States Army Veteran.

Michael owned and operated the former MG & Son Automotive in Lyons, Ohio. He was a member of the Wauseon Lodge #349 F&AM. He enjoyed auto restoration and spending time with family and friends.

Michael is survived by his sons Frank (and Dawn) Prystash, Buzz (and Daniela) Korth; daughters Laura East, Karla (and Caleb) Korth; wife Joanie Korth; brother, Steven (and Jodi) Prystash; sister Debra (and Mark) Kogovsek; grandchildren Brandy (and Mitch) Mika, Brittany (and Sheldon) Baker Jackson Prystash, Blake Korth, Brock Korth, Kyle Korth and Cara Korth; great-grandchildren Taytum, Tanner and Maxwell.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Georgia Prystash; sons Mark Murar and Michael Prystash; brother George Prystash; grandson Mark Murar, Jr.

Services for Michael will be private.

Irlene F. Patke, 84, of Swanton, Ohio, and formerly Morenci, died Oct. 4, 2023, at Ebeid Hospice House in Sylvania, Ohio.

She was born Aug. 19, 1939, in Fayette, Ohio, to Denver and Bessie (Smith) Keefer, the oldest of 11 children. Irlene attended and graduated from Gorham Fayette High School and went on to obtain an LPN license. Until her retirement, she worked in several hospitals and nursing homes.  

On Oct. 8, 1960, she married Michael Patke at Fayette United Methodist Church, and he preceded her in death  Sept. 13, 1990. 

In her free time, she enjoyed sewing, crocheting and working puzzles. She also became a snowbird, traveling to Florida in the wintertime.

 Irlene is survived by siblings Carl (and Janice) Keefer, Alvin (and Diane) Keefer, James (and Gwen) Keefer, Lois (and Walter) Hassenzahl, Betty Shaffer, Marlene Eckel, and Elaine (and Larry) Deck; and many nieces and nephews.  

Along with her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by siblings Denver R. Keefer, John Keefer and Lorraine Patterson. 

 Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m.  Monday, Oct. 9, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci, with Pastor Darren Lemmon officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci. Visitation will precede the service from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. 

Memorial donations are suggested to Wright-Waldron Fire and EMS, where many of her nieces and nephews are members.  

Janice S. Limbacher, 82, of Adrian, Mich., formerly of Seneca Township and Morenci, died Oct. 4, 2023, at Brookdale of Adrian under the care of Hospice of Lenawee. 

Janice was born Oct. 21, 1940, to Donald and Irene (Thomas) Powers. She graduated from Lyons High School in 1958 and Bowling Green State University in 1962. Janice taught first grade at Madison Elementary School for two years, and fourth grade at Tecumseh Acres School for 28 years.  

On June 30, 1989, Janice married Thomas Limbacher, Jr., in Adrian, and they shared 15 years together before his death in 2005. 

Janice was an avid traveler, having visited all 50 states, several countries in Europe, the Holy Land and Central America. The highlight of her travels was seeing the pyramids. Janice was an active member of St. John’s Lutheran Church where she served in many capacities. 

She is survived by her brother, Dennis (and Juell) Powers of Overbrook, Kansas; nephews Tracy Powers, Myron Powers, Todd Powers, Patrick Powers and William Powers; and nieces Susan Bickerstaff, Sandra Coffee and Karmel Bellew.

Janice was proceeded in death by her parents; husband Thomas; brother Paul Powers and sister-in-law Imogene Powers. 

Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 11, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, with Rev. Joel Sarrault officiating. Visitation is planned at the church from 10 a.m. until the start of the service. Janice will be laid to rest at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.  

Memorial contributions are suggested to St. John’s Lutheran Church. 

Wagley Funeral Home, Adrian, assisted with arrangements.

Michael Robert Miller, 63, of Morenci,  Mich., died peacefully Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his family.

He was born June 8, 1960, in Adrian, Mich., the son of Paul and Norma (Cherry) Miller. Mike attended Morenci Area Schools and was a lifelong resident of Morenci.

Mike married the love of his life, Phyllis Clark, on Sept. 19, 1980, in Adrian. Early in his working career, he worked for the Adrian Dominican Sisters, which he always claimed was his favorite job. He was mostly employed as a heavy equipment operator before becoming medically disabled. 

Mike loved being outdoors and found peace in taking daily walks. He also enjoyed listening to the radio traffic on his CB radios. He was meticulous about his yard, and it was perhaps his favorite hobby. He loved to travel and enjoyed many cruises with Phyllis. They also enjoyed annual trips to visit Mackinaw City, Mackinac Island, and navigate Route 2 through the Upper Peninsula. A very supportive dad, Mike is remembered as a friendly man who never knew a stranger, and who proudly instilled conservative values and hard-working ethics in his family.

In addition to his wife of 43 years, Phyllis, Mike is survived by son Darren Miller of Fayette, Ohio; daughter Sarah Easler of Morenci; sister Sondra (and Jimmie) Roop of Morenci; four grandchildren, Marissa, Morgan, Corbin and Sophia; three great-grandchildren, Jericho, Theodore and Eloise; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, Mike was preceded in death by his two brothers, Charles and Jeffrey Miller.

Visitation is planned from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci. Private burial will take place in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

Ruth Ann Lynch, 61, of Fayette, Ohio, died Sept. 17, 2023, at St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center, with loved ones at her side.

She was born July 26, 1962, in Monroe, Mich., to Edward Lojewski and Sara (Worrick) Judson. She was raised in the southeast Michigan area. Ruth married William Lynch and started a family in 1980 in Monroe, Mich. Although their relationship ended, later in life they became good friends.

Ruth moved to the Fulton County area when she was around 30 and decided to make Fayette her home, roughly 28 years ago. She worked as a waitress in a couple different restaurants, but most would know her from her time working at Mel’s Place (Melody’s) where she worked for about 20 years.

In her free time, Ruth loved to spend time with family and friends. She enjoyed going to festivals and seeing live bands. She always went all out decorating for the holidays, her children loved seeing all the fun and interesting things she would put out. Ruth was a busybody, always had to be on the move, whether she was shopping, thrifting, or yard sale hopping. It was hard to keep her in one place. But when she had to stay home, she enjoyed putting together puzzles, diamond painting, and playing games on her phone.

Ruth is survived by children Sararita Lynch, Casie (and Dave) Miller and Torrance Lynch; grandchildren Emerald, Bryce, Ryan, Kaia, Destiny, Bryanna, Ethan, Caleb, Zayden, Sophie and Jakstan; great-granddaughters Evelyn and Vivian; siblings Roberta, Marie, Edward (and Rita) and Paul.

Along with her parents she was preceded in death by her baby sister, Sararita Francine; uncles J.L. and Jr.; and a granddaughter, Sophia, in infancy.

Funeral services were Sept. 26 also at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Pastor Vicki Schnitkey officiated. Cremation will follow.

Memorial contributions are suggested through Crowdfunding to assist with funeral expenses.

Sandra (Pitts) Drohan, 83, of Fayette, Ohio, died Sept. 18, 2023, at Evergreen Health Care Center in Montpelier, Ohio.  

She was born Nov. 6, 1939, in Madison Township to John and Helen (Eberly) Pitts.

Sandra worked at Evergreen Manor Nursing Home for 14 years and she also cleaned houses for many years. 

She met the love of her life on a blind date and she married Kenneth R. Drohan on April 5, 1986, at Faith United Methodist Church in Bryan, Ohio, and they had 37 wonderful years together. Sandra and Kenneth enjoyed traveling and spending time with family and friends. She also had a love for cooking and children.

Sandra is survived by her husband Kenneth; brothers Raymond (and Ila) Pitts of Camden, Mich., Kevin (and Deann) Pitts of Pioneer, Ohio; sister Cheryl (Pitts) Cunningham of Peoria, Arizona; sister-in-law Marie (and Kenneth) Moore of Hicksville, Ohio; brother-in-law Paul (and Verlene) Drohan of Montpelier; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Visitation is planned from 10 a.m. until noon Monday, Oct. 2, at Thompson Funeral Home in Montpelier.  Services will take place immediately following at the funeral home.  Interment will follow at Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Evergreen Nursing Home or Elara Caring Hospice.

Mary Ann Beaverson, 83, of Wauseon, Ohio, and formerly Fayette, Ohio, died, Sept. 17, 2023, at Fulton Manor Nursing Home, surrounded by her daughters, and under the care of Hospice of Northwest Ohio.

She was born in Hudson, Mich., on March 23, 1940, to Mahlon and Aldythe (Milliman) Ort. Mary attended school in Morenci and while a students worked with her father at Bancroft Cleaners. She graduated in 1958, and that same year, married Richard W. Beaverson. They lived in Fayette and had three children. While raising their children, Mary Ann worked as an STNA at the former Detwiler Manor, transferring to Fulton Manor.

In her free time, Mary Ann loved to do puzzles. She also played the piano for her church. She continued to enjoy word search puzzles, as well as playing cards. Diet Coke and Big Macs were a staple of her diet. She always enjoyed spending time with her family, including her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her sassy personality will be missed.

Surviving are daughters Candice (and Glen) Garbers and Penny (and Rob) Myles; grandchildren Amber (and Joe) Riley, Nicole (and Andrew) Parsons, Tyler (and Megan) Beaverson, Joshua (and Courtni) Beaverson, and Kevin (and Olivia) Myles; and 12 great-grandchildren. 

Along with her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sons Richard A. in infancy and Terry; and a brother, Richard Ort.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 28, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Memorial services will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 29, at Faith Lutheran Church in Swanton,  Ohio, with Pastor Dalton Rosa-Ruggieri, officiating. Interment will follow at 3 p.m. at Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Faith Lutheran Church in Swanton or Fulton Manor Activities Fund.

James (Jim/Jimmy) Paul Lakatos, 72, of Morenci, Mich., went to his forever farm with the Lord Sept. 15, 2023, leaving peacefully from the Hospice House of Lenawee.

He was born Jan. 9, 1951, in Morenci to Paul and Hazel (Bragg) Lakatos.

James was a life-long farmer, mechanic, teacher, and toy tractor collector and dealer. He was also a member of the Lenawee County Agricultural Society (Lenawee County Fair) and served as a fair board member and volunteer for more than 34 years.

James met his wife, Theresa (Wambold) Butcher, on Sweetest Day, October 1990. They married on July 10, 1992, and celebrated 31 years together.

In addition to his wife, Jim is survived by stepchildren Michelle (and Rod) Stuttgen, Dale Butcher, Lenda (and Anthony) Myers, Diane (and Kris) VanWagner; grandchildren Raegan VanWagner, Brody Stuttgen, Bryce Stuttgen, Ezekiel Meringa, Noah Myers, Theren VanWagner, Emma Butcher, Evee Myers, Owen Myers and Sanne VanWagner; sister Cindy (and Jim) Petry; and several aunts, uncles, a niece and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

A Celebration of Life is planned Dec. 23, 2023, at the Morenci Sportsman’s Club. 

Memorial donations are suggested to the Parkinson’s Foundation of Northwest Ohio, Hospice of Lenawee, the Lenawee County Agricultural Society and/or the Morenci Sportsman’s Club.

Photos for the Celebration video presentation should be sent to vanniek71@gmail.com.

Thomas C. Smith, 79, of Morenci, Mich., died Sept. 2, 2023, at his residence.

He was born July 16, 1944, in Morenci, to the late Charles and Grace (Watters) Smith. On June 14, 1969, he married Betsey J. Trowbridge in Rollin Center, Mich., and she preceded him in death Dec. 23, 2018. On Oct. 7, 2023, Tom would have married his fiancée, Joyce Stevens. 

Tom graduated from Morenci High School.  He served his country in the United States Navy, retiring as Chief Petty Officer after 20 years. He also taught electronics in the Detroit area after his Navy retirement.

Tom loved his family and going to his grandkids' sporting events, however, being the jokester he was, would always pick on his grandkids – especially Zachary about his slow truck. His brother Jim was also a target of his pranks. Tom loved his Jeep Wrangler, hunting and fishing, and the outdoors in general.  Going up north to the cabin, his dog Maddie, baseball, and guns were other interests of his. He was a member of the Morenci Congregational Church and recently started attending Blissfield Baptist Church with his fiancée. Tom was also a member of the Morenci Sportsman’s Club, the Morenci American Legion, and the NRA. 

Surviving is his fiancée, Joyce Stevens; daughters, Michelle (and Richard) Stevens and Monica (and Dennis) Blackwell; five grandchildren, James Thomas “JT”, Zachary, Wyatt, Alex and Will; and brothers, James and John Smith.

His parents and wife preceded him in death.

Visitation is planned from 3 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 7, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home – Morenci Chapel. Funeral Services will start at 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 8, also at the funeral home. Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Morenci American Legion or the Lenawee Humane Society.

Robert “Bob” E. Wilson, Sr., 80, of Morenci, Mich., died Aug. 25, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his loved ones.

He was born Nov. 8, 1942, in Seneca Township, Mich., to Henderson F. “Hence” and Ruby I. (Yates) Wilson. Bob married Janice Mullis Sept. 1, 1990, in Delta, Ohio, and she survives. 

He proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1961 to 1965.  

Bob lived in the Morenci area most of his life. He retired from GM Powertrain in Toledo, Ohio. Bob liked to fish and hunt.  He especially liked to go to northern Michigan and hunt deer with his fellow GM friend.

He enjoyed spending time with his beloved canine companion, Fred. 

In addition to his wife, Bob is survived by his children Robert Wilson, Jr., of Wauseon, Ohio, Peggy Damman of Delta, Amy Double of White Pigeon, Mich., Chad (and Melony) Double of Brighton, Mich., and Christina (and Trent) Cousino of Sylvania, Ohio; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents and four brothers, J.T., I.C., Junior and Donald Wilson.  

Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 1, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci. Visitation is planned from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, as well as Friday morning from 10 a.m. until the service. Burial will take place in Medina Cemetery.  

Memorial contributions are suggested to Elara Caring Hospice, St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital, or to ASPCA.

Vivian Lois Seigneur, 94, a lifelong resident of Lyons, Ohio, died Aug. 15, 2023, at Ebeid Hospice.

She was born Jan. 5, 1929, in Lyons to Ralph and Lola (Robinson) Seigneur.

Vivian worked at Jeep/Chrysler for more than 40 years, though she still managed to make enough time to travel and experience the country, visiting every state except Alaska. Vivian also loved to read and enjoyed word games and puzzles. Church was an important part of her life.

She is survived by sister Vava Campbell; brother, Max (and June) Seigneur; and many nieces and nephews.

Vivian was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Paul and Lyle Seigneur; and sister Reva Miller.

Visitation is planned from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 18, at East Chesterfield Christian Church, followed by a funeral service 11 a.m., with Pastor Jim Mann officiating. Interment will follow at Lyons Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to East Chesterfield Christian Church or Ebeid Hospice.

Joyce Ferris-Mellott, 84, of rural Fayette, Ohio, died Aug. 14, 2023, at her home.

She was born March 22, 1939, in Wauseon, Ohio, to Emerson and Frances (Strayer) Seiler. Joyce married Andrew Ferris in 1958, and he preceded her in death in July 1989. After Andrew’s passing, she married her current husband of 32 years, Doug Mellott.

Joyce retired from GM after 30 years. As an avid crafty person, she enjoyed crocheting afghans and sewing/quilting projects. She won many ribbons at the Fulton County Fair and worked in the fair office for 15 years. Recently, she donated her time with “The Crafty Ladies” of Morenci, making items for the underprivileged. Joyce was an avid camping enthusiast and spent the last 20 years as a snowbird in Florida.

She is survived by son Tony (and Robyn) Ferris; daughter Kristie (and Stu Febesh) Ferris; grandchildren Eric (and Jenny) Ferris, Matthew Ferris, Lisa Ferris, Andrew (and Kelsi) Ferris, and Jack Febesh; great-grandchildren Donovan Ferris, Ryan Ferris and Juli Ferris; three step-children; nine step-grandchildren; and 10 step-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and first husband.

Cremation will take place. Graveside services and a celebration of life at the Family Life Center in Fayette will take place at a later date.

Memorial donations are suggested to Fayette Christian Church or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci is assisting with arrangements.

Herbert W. Nofziger, 97, of Lyons, Ohio, died Aug. 9, 2023, at Fulton Manor in Wauseon, Ohio.

Herbert was born May 7, 1926, near Wauseon, the son of Clarence and Ida (Yoder) Nofziger. He married Virginia Nofziger on July 25, 1948, and she preceded him in death Jan. 3, 2016.

Herbert became a farmer at a young age, helping his father and continuing with his own dairy farm until his retirement. He remained a farmer at heart even when he moved to Fulton Suites in 2017. He was devoted to his family and enjoyed spending time and doing things with his grandchildren, and also traveling with friends.

Herbert was active in the Wauseon FISH Program. He was a former member of the Inlet Mennonite Church near Wauseon and was a present member of North Clinton Church at Wauseon.

Herbert is survived by children Jane (and Terry) Wyse of Wauseon, Mike (and Gwen) Nofziger of Lyons, and Matt (and Lynelle) Nofziger of Wauseon; 10 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; siblings Melvin Nofziger, Burdell (and Janice) Nofziger and Marilyn Verbeck.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife;si blings Waneta Gerig, Letha Waidelich, Arlene Springer and Alvin Nofziger; daughter Barbara Henricks; and son Stephen.

Services were Aug. 12 at the North Clinton Church. The family suggests memorials to North Clinton Church or Wauseon FISH.