Obituaries
James R. Manzullo
James R. Manzullo, 62 of Pewamo, Michigan died at Laurels of Fulton on Tuesday, February 20, 2018. Jim was born on December 1, 1955 in Alma, Michigan the son of John and Lois (Schaede) Manzullo. He graduated from Alma High School and had attended Ferris State University. Jim worked for FedEx for several years, and after his retirement from that he purchased the Kramer’s Bar and Grill in Pewamo in 2011. Jim was married to Karla Aspgren on April 22, 1978 in Grand Rapids. He loved fishing, boating and being at the cabin at Canadian Lakes.
Survivors are his wife, Karla, his father, John Manzullo of St. Louis, MI, sons Brad (Lisa) Manzullo of Okemos, Kevin Manzullo of Florida and Jonathon (Sara) Manzullo of Georgia. A memorial gathering will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 W. Grand River Ave., Lansing, MI 48906. Arrangements by Keck-Coleman Funeral Home, St. Johns, MI
Judith A. Minner
Judith A. Minner, 79 of St. Johns, MI passed away on Monday, February 19, 2018 at Sparrow Hospital following a courageous battle with cancer. She was born on January 23, 1939 in Detroit, MI the daughter of Joseph and Roberta (Zimmerman) Dunn. She attended Melba Cosmetology School and Lansing Community College from where she received her R.N. degree. She was married to Charles Minner who predeceased her.
Judy was worked as a cosmetologist for 10 years then as an RN for 50 years at Sparrow Clinton Hospital, was a member of Sparrow Clinton Hospital Auxiliary, Victims Support Team, Knights of Columbus Blood Drive Co-chair, was vice chairman and board member of Court Appointed Special Advocates and had been buyer and co-chair of Sparrow Clinton Gift Shop. She had also served as cashier, host and greeter at Wal-Mart for several years.
She is survived by her son, Donald Ells (Andrea), brother David (Mildred) Dunn and granddaughters, Deanna (Fred) Enos, Tanya and Victoia Ells, Great grandchildren, James II, Dylan, Alex, Sierra Wilson, Alexander Enos, Preston Reha, Daytona Enos. Great great grandchildren, Sopnia Jones, Adelina and Jaxton Wilson, Addison Enos and special friend Bonita Ells.
At Judy’s request cremation has taken place. Memorials may be directed to Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 W. Grand River Ave., Lansing, MI 48906 or St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital, PO Box 1000, Memphis, TN 38148-0142. A Memorial Mass will be prayed at St. Joseph Catholic Church in St. Johns on Thursday, February 22, 2018 at 11:00 AM with Rev. Fr. Michael Williams as celebrant with a luncheon at the church following the Mass. Arrangements by Keck-Coleman Funeral Home.
Juanita M. Horman
Juanita M. Horman, 83 of rural DeWitt passed away at Gunnisonville Assisted Living Center on Saturday, February 17, 2018. She was born on August 8, 1934 in Lansing, MI the daughter of Bronson and Donna (Locke) Hoyt. She graduated from Grand Ledge High School and on January 10, 1954 she married Charles Horman at St. Peter Lutheran Church. He preceded her in death on July 28, 2011. Juanita loved quilting, sewing, knitting, fishing, puzzles, her family and especially her grandchildren. She was a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church and the Ladies Aide Society. Juanita was a homemaker and a farmer’s wife.
Survivors are son, Bill (Cindy) Horman of St. Johns, daughters, Debbie (Steve) Pytlowanyj of St. Johns and Rita (Jim) Jenks of Clark Lake, MI; grandchildren, Krysta Pytlowanyj, Nathan (Heather) Pytlowanyj, Steve (Anne) Pytlowanyj,Taleitha Pytlowanyj, Jacob (Jamie), and Jennifer Horman, Stacey (Pete) Kurncz, Erica (Joel) Edwards, Kimberly Downey, Lindsay Mercer and Brooke (Jason) Dunigan; 15 great grandchildren; a brother, David (Caroline) Hoyt of GA and a sister, Marietta Pung of Lansing. She was preceded in death by a great grandchild, Peter Kurncz IV, parents, brother, Donald Hoyt and sister, Nora Edgar.
Funeral services will be held at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 8990 Church Rd., St. Johns on Thursday, February 22, 2018 at 11:00 AM with Pastor Quentin Nuttmann officiating. Burial will follow at St. Peter Cemetery. The family will receive friends and relatives at Keck-Coleman Funeral Home on Wednesday, February 21, 2018, 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. Memorials may be given to St. Peter Lutheran Church, or the Alzheimer’s Association.
Ronald Keith Barnhill
Ronald Keith Barnhill, age 71 of St. Johns, MI, passed away Monday, February 19, 2018 at his home.
A Memorial Service will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes Elsie, MI on Thursday, February 22, 2018 at 5:00 P.M., with Pastor Mike Geiger officiating. Visitation will be held on Thursday prior to the service from 2:00-5:00 P.M. at the funeral home.
Ronald was born in Alma, MI on February 14, 1947 the son of Warren and Roberta (Hoffer) Barnhill. He was a graduate of Elsie High School and resided most of his life in Elsie. Ron married Ruth on September 6, 2003 at their home in St. Johns.
Ron retired from General Motors in 2006 after 37 years. He loved 50’s and 60’s rock-n-roll music. Ron enjoyed collecting a variety of memorabilia, visiting flea markets and antique malls. His favorite TV show was American Pickers. Ron and Ruth enjoyed gardening, working in the yard and around the house together. His dogs, Memphis and Daisy Mae were very special to him.
He is survived by his wife Ruth Barnhill of St. Johns, MI; son Troy Barnhill of Bath, MI; son Todd Barnhill and husband Eric Soya of Grand Rapids, MI; daughter Tricia Barnhill of Bannister, MI; son Jim Snyder of Ithaca, MI; daughter Heather Snyder of Ithaca, MI; 8 grandchildren: Jasmine Barnhill, Dakota Barnhill, Gavin Barnhill, Allie Minarik, River Minarik, Alex Crawford, Myla Rae Snyder, and Ella Mae Snyder; sister Teresa and Randy Pelley of Omaha, NE; brother Duwayne and Pam Barnhill of Garnet, MI; brother Raymond and Bev Barnhill of Ionia, MI; mother-in-law Dorothy King of Stanton, MI; sister-in-law Jamie King of Gainesville, FL; sister-in-law Kathy King of Stanton, MI; brother-in-law Steve King of Fenwick, MI; and many nieces and nephews. Ron was preceded in death by his parents and his father-in-law James King.
Memorials may be made to Sparrow Hospice or the American Cancer Society. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Elsie, MI.
Norman John Goerge
Norman John Goerge, age 93, of Fowler, MI, passed away Sunday, February 18, 2018 at his home.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Fowler, MI, on Thursday, February 22, 2018 at 10:30 A.M., with Rev. Fr. Dennis Howard officiating. Burial will take place at Most Holy Trinity Cemetery, Fowler, MI. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 21, 2018 from 2-8 P.M. with family present from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. at Smith Family Funeral Homes – Goerge Chapel, Fowler, MI with a Rosary being prayed at 7:30 P.M.
Norman was born in St. Johns, MI on January 11, 1925, the son of Edward and Rose (Simon) Goerge. Norman attended Sage Country School and Most Holy Trinity Catholic School. Norman married Barbara Ogg on April 8, 1980. Besides working for different manufacturing companies, Norman retired as head of maintenance at St. Joseph Catholic Church in St. Johns. On Sunday mornings he loved visiting with his brother Alvin. He enjoyed traveling and wintering in Florida where he made many friends during his winter stays. His faith was a very important part of his life, and he was a member of Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church. For many years Norman was an avid Tigers fan. He was a lifetime resident of Fowler.
He is survived by his wife Barbara Goerge of Fowler, MI; 5 daughters: Marlene Sawdy of Grand Ledge, MI; Diane and Mike Koenigsknecht of Fowler, MI; Nancy and Dan Stoltz of The Woodlands, TX; Sharon Bressette and Fred Bednarski of Austin, TX; Jane Goerge of Saline, MI; step daughter Debbie and Pat McKenna of Haslett, MI; step son Kevin Ogg of Wyoming, MI; step daughter Carol Ann Harger of Greenville, MI; 6 grandchildren: Jason and Kelsi Sawdy, Michelle Sawdy-Rittenberg, Dan and Jenna Sawdy, Ryan and Lisa Koenigsknecht, Derek and Tricia Koenigsknecht, and Garrett Bressette; 12 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Joyce Goerge of Fowler, MI and many step grandchildren, step great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Norman was preceded in death by his parents, brother Alvin Goerge, and grandson R. Justin Allemier.
Memorials may be made to Sparrow Hospice or Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes – Goerge Chapel, Fowler, MI.
Marilyn Hazel Gallagher
Marilyn Hazel (Winsor) Gallagher, age 83 of Perrinton, MI, passed away Sunday, February 18, 2018 at her home.
Funeral Services will be held at Maple Rapids Congregational Christian Church on Thursday, February 22, 2018 at 11:00 A.M., with Pastor Jerry Kissling and Pastor David Winsor officiating. Burial will take place at Payne Cemetery, Fulton Township, MI. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 21, 2018 from 2-8 P.M. with family present from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. at Smith Family Funeral Homes – Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, MI, and will also be held on Thursday one hour prior to the service at the Church.
Marilyn was born in Chicago, IL on October 17, 1934 the daughter of Merrill F. and Hazel M. (Rehm) Irwin. She was a graduate of Fulton Middleton High School. Marilyn married Duane L. Winsor on June 26, 1954; Duane passed away on October 13, 1991. She then married Charles Gallagher on November 3, 1995.
Marilyn was a secretary at Fulton Schools for many years until her retirement. She loved to cross stitch, feed birds, knitting, gardening and harvesting what she grew. She was a member of Maple Rapids Congregational Christian Church. She resided most of her life in Gratiot County.
She is survived by 3 sons: Gerry and Shari Winsor of St. Johns, MI; Ron and Joyce Winsor of Chassell, MI; Brian and Jan Winsor of Perrinton, MI; daughter Deb and Matt Vusich of Perrinton, MI; 9 grandchildren: Jeremy and Jessi Winsor, David and Becky Winsor, Danielle and Matt Hutter, Autumn and Chris Lake, Erik Winsor, Chanda and Mike Shook, Casey and Maggie Williams, Hope Vusich, and John Vusich; 13 great-grandchildren; sister Carolyn and Glen Winsor of Perrinton, MI; and many nieces and nephews. Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, and daughter Janice Arlene Winsor.
Memorials may be made to Maple Rapids Congregational Christian Church. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes – Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, MI.
Richard Russell Andrews
Richard Russell “Dick” Andrews, age 78 of Maple Rapids, MI, passed away Saturday, February 17, 2018, at Sparrow Hospital, Lansing, Michigan.
A Memorial Service will be held at Maple Rapids United Methodist Church at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, February 21, 2018 with Rev. Kathy Leydorf-Keck officiating. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 10-11 A.M. prior to the service at the church.
Richard was born in Perrinton, Michigan on May 26, 1939, the son of William Russell and Ruth Marie (Stone) Andrews. Dick married Nancy Rumsey on February 24, 1957 in Maple Rapids, MI. He resided most of his life in Maple Rapids.
Dick retired from General Motors in 1996. He enjoyed hunting, especially deer hunting, fishing and anything outdoors. Dick also enjoyed playing pool playing in many tournaments over the years. He also played cards and was an avid golfer. Anything that Dick decided to do he did wholeheartedly. He was a graduate of Fulton High School and played on the football team as a quarter back, #11. Later he was a golf coach at Fulton High School. Dick was a University of Michigan fan.
He is survived by his wife Nancy Andrews of Maple Rapids, MI; 5 sons Mark Andrews of Houston, TX; Marlin Andrews of Middleton, MI; Matthew Andrews of Muskegon, MI; Michael and Tiffanie Andrews of Perrinton, MI; Mitchell and Danell Andrews of Perrinton, MI; 9 grandchildren Heather and Jason Werlinger, Kodie and Betsy Hall, Eric and Jarrae Arrington, Thomas Arrington, Matthew Arrington, Austin and Brittany Pierce, Ashlee Andrews, Zachary Andrews and Sydney Andrews; 12 great-grandchildren; brother Robert and Paula Andrews of Florida; 2 sisters Sharon Havens of Lansing, MI; Janet Andrews of Lansing, MI. Dick was preceded in death by his father and mother Ruth Marie Ellis, step-mother Leora Andrews, daughter-in-law and wife of Marlin, Angela Andrews, also his sister Sandra Gimmedy.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Fulton Schools Sports Boosters or Maple Rapids Ball Boosters. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes – Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, Michigan.
Camma Jill Harwood
Camma Jill Harwood died Thursday, February 15, 2018 at the age of 73. She was born April 2, 1944 in Grand Rapids, MI the daughter of the late Clayton G. and Kathryn L. (Jones) Harwood. Camma was raised in Ionia, MI and a graduate of Ionia High School, Class of 1962. She continued her education earning an Associate’s Degree in Child Development and spent her life caring for the elderly and children. Camma lived in the Flushing and Flint, MI area for several years and most recently moved to St. Johns. After retirement she participated in the foster grandparent program.
She is survived by her sisters, Kara (Johnny) Villarreal and Joy (David) Hood-Vredevoogd; nieces, Shawna Cantu and Angela (Jason) Lundstrom along with numerous cousins. The family wishes to thank Grace Haven Assisted Living staff and Care Team Hospice for their compassionate and loving care.
As per Camma’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no services. Interment will take place later this spring at Saranac Cemetery. The family was assisted with these arrangements by Keck-Coleman Funeral Home, St. Johns.
Dallas Herbruck
At the age of 73, Dallas Herbruck went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, January 9, 2018. He graduated from Rodney B. Wilson High School in 1963.
He leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife, Teresa Herbruck and daughters, Heather (David) Beach and Sara Herbruck, brothers, Douglas (Jackie) Herbruck and Darrell (Maureen) Herbruck as well as grandchildren, Mikaila and Joshua Beach. Also left to cherish his memory are nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, cousins and many, many friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Loveoan Herbruck and brother, Daniel Herbruck.
The Memorial Service will be held February 24, 2018 at 2:00 PM at True North Community Church, 3200 Willow Street, Lansing, MI 48917 with Pastor Gary Schnepp officiating. The family will receive friends one hour before the service.
Our family cannot express how grateful we are to McLaren Hospital, 2 SouthEast nurses and staff, as well as McLaren Hospice nurses, Gail and Rebecca for the care, compassion and kindness shown to Dallas during his illness.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to: Detroit Bulldog Rescue, P.O. Box 284, St. Clair Shores, MI 48080-0284.
Kenneth W. Washburn
Kenneth W. Washburn, 53, of Lansing, MI died on February 13, 2018. He was born on May 28, 1964 in Skandia, Marquette County, MI the son of William and Sandra (Searles) Washburn. Ken worked as a carpenter for various construction companies.
He is survived by his daughters, Melissa (Dave) Craven of Charlotte, Kristy (William) Dershem of St. Johns, Nikki (Raymond) Putman Jr. of Lansing and Brittney (Joshua) Hardman of Grand Ledge; sister Connie (Miguel) Martinez of Ovid and brothers Geoffrey (Laura) Washburn of CA and William Washburn Jr. of TX.; 11 grandchildren.
Arrangements by Keck-Coleman Funeral Home. There will be no services.
Divorce decrees filed February 5, 2018
Swehla, Jeffrey Wayne and Lena Mary
Stepanski, Kimberly Corcoran and Terry Allen
Besonen, Abby J and Dustin J
Beland, Rebecca Lynn and Alan Michael
Divorce decrees filed the week of February 12, 2018
Lawrence, Dana Sue and Chris Todd
Fongers, Mark and Marsha
Landon, Kim and William
Lawrence, Holly K. and William Edward III
Arnold, Kellie K. and William R. Crofts
Johnson, Troy Michael and Autumn Joanne
McDonald, Marcilla Anne and Joshua Alan
Our mother’s gentle warm embracing light will now shine down upon all she loves from heaven. Betty (Jorae) Mankey, 94, of St. Johns, MI died peacefully on February 12, 2018 surrounded by her loving family. She was born November 18, 1923 in St. Johns the daughter of Ira and Agatha (Kesby) Jorae. 
Richard Francis “Rick” Gorch, age 70, of St. Johns, MI, passed away Saturday, February 10, 2018, at Sparrow Hospital, Lansing, MI.
On February 1st, the world lost a great man. Robert (Bob) James Buehler, 77, of Minnetonka Minnesota died peacefully at Methodist Hospital surrounded by his wife and four daughters. Bob was a native of St. Johns, Michigan.
James T. Skriba, 82 of St. Johns passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, February 6, 2018. He was born on March 11, 1935 in Ashley, MI the son of Rudolph and Ruby (Morse) Skriba. Jim graduated from Ashley High School and served in the U.S. Army. On January 25, 1958 he married Virginia L. Harris in St. Johns and he worked at General Motors for 32 years in material handling and in the powerhouse from which he retired. Jim loved electronics, work, fixing things and his Sheltie dogs. He owned and operated Jim’s TV North of St. Johns for several years. 
Dr. Barry L. Knight, 76, of Howell, MI and Ft. Myers FL, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2018. Barry was born in St. Johns, MI to William and Audra (Hettler) Knight. He was the oldest their four sons. He was a long time resident of Marquette, MI.
Donald C. “Donnie” Rice age 80, of Maple Rapids, MI passed away Sunday, February 4, 2018 at Laurels of Carson City, Carson City, MI. 
Linda Fay (Gilbert) Snater, 59, of St. Johns, passed away on Wednesday, January 31, 2018. Linda was born in Frankfort, Michigan on June 11, 1958 to Gerald (Jean) Gilbert and Nancy Morgret. Linda married Jeff Snater on January 13, 1979 and he survives her. 
Arlene L. Plowman of St. Johns, MI who celebrated her 92nd birthday on January 31, 2018 passed away on February 2, 2018 at Hazel Findlay Country Manor. Arlene was born the daughter of John and Auerilia Baur Baumgartner in Bingham Twp., MI. She worked in retail sales for several years and on September 2, 1950 she married Glen Plowman in St. Johns, MI. She enjoyed knitting and quilting.
George E. Dush age 84 of St. Johns, MI passed away Thursday, February 1, 2018 at University of Michigan Hospital, Ann Arbor, MI.
Maxine L. Kushmaul died Monday, January 29, 2018 at the age of 91. She was born December 17, 1926 in Grass Lake, MI the daughter of Lawrence and Verda Lucille (McCurdy) DeVerna. On December 23, 1945 she married Robert E. Kushmaul and he preceded her in death in 1994. Maxine was an active member in several churches during her life. She was a member of Federated Church in Grass Lake and of First United Methodist Church in Chelsea. 
The Honorable Richard Dean Wells died surrounded by his loving family on January 28, 2018 at the age of 76.
Dorothy J. Sousley died Tuesday, January 23, 2018 at the age of 88. She was born October 2, 1929 in St. Johns the daughter of L. Russell and Emily A. (Hoelzer) Steffens. Dorothy graduated from Rodney B. Wilson High School in St. Johns, Class of 1947. Dorothy was an active, lifelong member of First Congregational Church in St. Johns where she was a member of the church choir, was a member of the Doublets group at church and along with her husband was instrumental in starting the Stevens Ministry at the church. 
Gladys Elaine Boak, born January 19, 1930 in Township of Riley, Michigan, died December 8, 2017, in Tucson, AZ. She retired from TUSD Food Services. She was a member of Fountain of Life Lutheran Church, Ascension Lutheran Church, Tucson Elks and Moose Lodges, Eastern Star Masonic Lodge, Retreads of Arizona Motorcycle Club.
Mark Black, age 59 of Owosso passed away Wednesday, January 17, 2018 at Memorial Healthcare with his family by his side. A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, January 27 2018 at 
Shirley Ann Dockham, 81, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 15, 2018 in Lansing, Michigan. Born January 19, 1936 to Gordon and Ruth (Carey) Hodge, Shirley grew up in St. Johns. She was an Avon Rep for many years and worked as a clerk for the USPS in Lansing. In her spare time she loved to bowl and participated in many leagues.
Janet C. Lewis died Tuesday, January 16, 2018 at the age of 82. She was born September 17, 1935 in St. Johns, MI the daughter of Francis and Marian (Motz) Sohn. On June 27, 1953 she married Leon Lewis and he survives her. 
Erwin E. Pline, age 90 passed away on Monday, January 15, 2018 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on August 20, 1927 in Lansing the son of Herman and Lillian (Miller) Pline and was raised in Westphalia. He worked for Holloway Construction Company, retiring in 1987. On January 17, 1953 he married Alice Kramer. He was a member of Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Laborers Local #1191, Knights of Columbus, Catholic Order of Foresters, Fowler Conservation Club and VFW Post 3733 Auxiliary. 
Nick G. Evers, 49 of rural St. Johns, MI passed away on Sunday, January 14, 2018 from a snowmobile accident on Manistee Lake, in Kalkaska. Nick was born on April 28, 1968 in Cincinnati, OH the son of Dan and Mary Nell (Carroll) Evers. He worked as a mechanic for CBRE in Lansing . On December 19, 2008 he married Sandy Doellman in Rising Sun, IN. Nick loved being outdoors, especially hunting, fishing, cross country skiing and snowmobiling. 
Raynold P. St. Pierre, 76, of rural St. Johns, MI passed away on January 12, 2018 at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. He was born on August 19, 1941 in Lansing, MI the son of Phillip A. and Dorothy L. (Blias) St. Pierre. He was a veteran of the US Air Force and married for over 50 years to Barbara J. Bonczak. Raynold worked as the Planning, Zoning and Building Administration for DeWitt Township for 34 years and developed the first zoning ordinance for DeWitt Township.
Melinda K. Joy died Wednesday, January 10, 2018 at the age of 50. She was born March 9, 1967 in Lansing, MI the daughter of Richard and Linda Kay (Ellis) Roberts. Melinda earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Spring Arbor College and worked as an X-ray technician and most recently as a home health caregiver. 
Barbara R. (Moinet) Viges, 89 passed away on January 11, 2018 at her home surrounded with family. She was born on February 29, 1928 in Clinton County, MI the daughter of Lyle and Edith (Eastman) Green. Barbara worked for Karber Block Company doing accounting work and then she worked at Federal Mogul Corp. She was married to Norman Moinet in 1946 and he passed away in 1997. In 2006 she married Walter Viges, and he passed away in 2016. Barbara enjoyed her family, grandchildren and traveling. 
Carol Ann Murphy, age 70, of St. Johns, MI passed away Tuesday, January 9, 2018 at Sparrow Hospital, Lansing, MI.
Patricia J. Zimmerman of St. Johns passed away Sunday January 7, 2018 at the age of 77, very much loved and surrounded by her caring family. Pat was born February 15, 1940 in St. Johns Michigan to Theodore and Sophie (Prorok) Moore. She was a 1958 graduate of Rodney B. Wilson High School and worked as an Administrative Assistant for over 40 years with The United Nations and later with FEMA. Pat enjoyed baking, traveling, and spending time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, family was very important to Pat. 
Thomas William Beechler, age 80, died Monday January 8, 2018 after a short illness. He was born August 16, 1937 to William “Bill” Beecher and Geraldine Beechler who owned and operated the Clinton Theater for many many years. He graduated from St. Johns High School in 1955. He was a supervisor at Federal Mogul, retiring in 1991. Tom was a veteran of the United States Army and loved his family, basketball and Michigan with a passion. He will be dearly missed but not forgotten.
Gene D. Pederson, age 62 of Lake Isabella, MI, passed away Saturday, December 2, 2017 at Sparrow Health Systems, Lansing, MI.
Ryan G. Martin, 31, of Potterville died Wednesday, January 3, 2018. He was born on June 2, 1986 in Carson City, Michigan to Marilyn Martin Kieffer. After her death in 1989, he was adopted by his aunt and uncle, Jack and Jean Martin. He graduated from St. Johns High School and entered the U.S. Army where he was deployed to Iraq. Following his military service Ryan worked as a security guard. He married Megan Foster on July 6, 2012. At the time of his death Ryan was employed by the State of Michigan in the IT Department. He was a firefighter in Potterville and had just been elected to the Potterville City Council.
Cecil Lloyd Berlin Jr., age 67, of St. Johns, MI passed away Wednesday, January 3, 2018 at Sparrow Hospital, Lansing, MI.
Gloria Rose Abbey, our precious child, was called to be with the angels in heaven, December 30, 2017 at the age of 9. Gloria was born October 18, 2008 to Dustin Abbey and Erica Southwell. Even though Gloria was a special needs child, memories of her 9 years will be forever cherished by those that she came in contact with. One outstanding memory will be her random smiles which would tug at your heart. Gloria touched the hearts of many, including the staff at Clinton County RESA, as well as her bus drivers. She will be tremendously missed by all who knew her. 
It is with great sadness that the family of Donald E. “Sparty” Welch, 73 of St. Johns, MI announces his passing on January 2, 2018 due to complications during surgery at University of Michigan Hospital. Don was born on November 4, 1944 in Midland, MI the son of Basil E. and Dorotha (Murra) Welch. He graduated from Blanchard High School and had attended Michigan State University.
Linda L. (Baker) Taylor, born July 4th, 1937 in Bannister, the daughter of the late Dale and Marian (Hicks) Baker, passed away December 21, 2017 at the age of 80 due to complications of Alzheimer’s Disease.
Michael F. Johnson, 62 passed away on December 31, 2017 at Hospice House of Mid Michigan. He was born on March 26, 1955 in Detroit, MI the son of Burton and Margaret (Phelps) Johnson. 
Mary E. Johnson, 68 passed away on December 31, 2017 at Gunnisonville Assisted Living Center. She was born on June 9, 1949 in Detroit, MI the daughter of Burton and Margaret (Phelps) Johnson, and she is survived by her daughter Maureen Clark and a grandson, Shawn Matthew Clark, brothers, William Johnson, Dr. Matthew (Pam) Johnson and sister Laura (Joseph Sr.) Mullaney. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Alice (Simpson) Johnson, brother Larry Zimba and Michael Johnson. She has 23 nieces and nephews and was a registered nurse. Mary had worked as a hospice nurse for many years and retired from that.
Alan Derrell Steavens, 80, passed away peacefully on December 28, 2017 as a result of progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Alan served over 7 years in the Air Force and was dedicated to helping other throughout is life. 
Charles “Charlie” Chapko Sr., loving husband, father and grandfather, Charles “Charlie” Chapko Sr., age 86, of Elsie, MI, went to be with the Lord on Monday, January 1, 2018. He will be greatly missed.
Brigida E. Sible, 52 of St. Johns, MI passed away at Hospice House in Lansing on Saturday, December 30, 2017. She was born on July 22, 1965 in Lansing the daughter of Joe and Dora (Riojas) Cordova. She graduated from St. Johns Public Schools in 1983 and worked at Turning Point for 15 years. On January 28, 2000 she married Jonathan J. Sible in Lansing, MI. Brigida loved cheerleading, dancing, being with family and cooking Mexican food.
Diane June Pease
Bradford John “Brad” O’Berry, age 65 of Portland, MI, passed away Sunday, December 24, 2017 at his home.
Michael J. Wing Sr, 66 of St. Johns passed away on Thursday, December 21. 2017 at Sparrow Hospital following short illness. Michael was born on December 8, 1951 the son of Murl J. and Mary (Bappert) Wing. He graduated from Lansing Sexton High School and worked at General Motors until his retirement. He married Sandra J. Orweller on June 18, 1991 in St. Johns, MI. 
Robert Lee “Hoppy” Hopkins, age 61, of Alma, MI passed away Wednesday, December 20, 2017 at Woodland Hospice House, Mt. Pleasant, MI.
Jean Marie Schafer, 82, of Fowler, MI, passed away Monday, December 18, 2017, at Hazel I. Findlay Country Manor, St. Johns, MI.
Lester Sehlke died Friday, December 15, 2017 at the age of 91. He was born March 25, 1926 in Riley Township, Clinton County, MI the son of Herman and Mable (Marten) Sehlke. Lester was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Fowler, loved fishing and enjoyed playing Euchre with family and friends. He was a lifelong farmer and served as Riley Township Treasurer for 38 years. On June 18, 1947 he married Catherine Sillman and she preceded him in death in September of 2001. On November 26, 2004 Lester married Dorothy Plowman Waldron and she survives him. 
James Otto (Jim) Koenigsknecht, having fought a long hard battle with diabetes, heart disease and cancer, Jim passed away Wednesday, December 13, 2017 at his home, peacefully, surrounded by family. He was born December 6, 1946 at home in Fowler to parents, Alfred J. and Anna Rose (Simon) Koenigsknecht. He was second born of eight children. He attended Most Holy Trinity Catholic School through 8th grade and graduated from Fowler High School.