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Neil F. Barnhart
Neil F. Barnhart, age 87, passed away on Tuesday, September 15, 2020. Neil was born on December 20, 1932 in St. Johns, MI the son of Glenn and Pearl (Steavens) Barnhart. He graduated from Rodney B. Wilson High School in 1950, and on January 15, 1966, he married Elizabeth Gene Parkinson in Owosso, MI. Together they raised three children Kyle, Kristi and Kara.
As a life-long farmer, Neil raised pigs and several other animals, along with farming cash crops. Neil served his country in the Army in 1956-1957 in Germany. Besides farming full-time, Neil was on the St. Johns school board for 24 years (1976-2000), Bingham Township Board for 28 years, ASCS (Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service) board, and the DWP board for 37 years (retiring in 2020). He also was an on call EMT for the Clinton Area Ambulance for 5 years and the ambulance board for 30 years.
Neil is survived by his wife, Gene, son Kyle Barnhart of St. Johns, MI, daughters Kristi (Eric) Jensen of Hudsonville, MI, and Kara (Richard) Albert of Saranac, MI. He also was very proud of his grandchildren, Korey Barnhart, Zachary, Drew and Delaney Jensen, Ashley, Tyler, Alyssa and Allyson Albert and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother Jack Barnhart and sister Catharine Messer and his parents.
The family will receive friends and relatives at Keck-Coleman Funeral Home on Thursday, September 17, 2020 from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Friday, September 18, 2020 at 11:00 A.M. with Dr. Ron Peters officiating. Burial will be at South Bingham Cemetery. Military Honors will be provided by the St. Johns Honor Guard. Memorial contributions may be made to Two or More Christian Church, 800 S. US 27 #117, St. Johns, MI 48879.
Nolan Dean Erickson
Nolan “Duke” Dean Erickson, 94, of rural Ashley, MI passed away Tuesday, September 15, 2020 at Ashley Care Center. Nolan was born May 24, 1926 in Lansing, MI the son of Wilfred and Goldie (Henry) Erickson. Nolan graduated from Fulton High School in 1944 and resided all his life in the Ashley area. He married Eileen Anderson on June 20, 1946 and they were married 65 years.
Nolan served in World War II as a Field Lineman from 1946-1947 and was a life-long member of VFW Post # 3733 in Fowler. He worked for Warner Swazey for 21 years and retired from the Michigan Department of Transportation in October 1988 after 11 years of service. Nolan was a devoted son, husband, dad, grandpa, and friend. He enjoyed farming, spending time at the cabin, tinkering on things, playing cards, joking around, telling stories of his younger years, and was an avid Detroit Lions fan.
Nolan is survived by three children, Judy Erickson, Michael Erickson and Janet MacLennan and Dennis (Virginia) Erickson all of Ashley; 11 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; 8 great-great grandchildren and his beloved dog, Duchess. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Eileen in 2012; daughter-in-law, Margie Erickson and grandson, Brad Clark.
A memorial service will be held at 4:00 PM Saturday, September 26, 2020 at Keck-Coleman Funeral Home 1500 Waterford Pkwy, St. Johns with Pastor Kathy Leydorf-Keck officiating. Interment will follow at Collier Cemetery. The family will receive relatives and friends from 2:00 until service time at the funeral home. Military honors will be provided by VFW Post #3733. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Ashley Care Center, 103 West Wallace Street, Ashley, MI 48806.
Robert E. Darnell Sr.
Robert E. Darnell Sr. age 75 passed away on September 14, 2020 at Hazel Findlay Country Manor. Robert was born on April 14, 1945 in Flint, MI the son of Arthur and Virginia (Dotty) Darnell. He graduated from Corunna High School and had attended Lansing Community College. On Aug 1, 1970 he married Linda L. Lamoreaux in Lansing, MI. Robert had served his country in the U.S. Army.
He is survived by his wife Linda, sons Robert E. Darnell Jr. and William K. Darnell all of St. Johns. He was preceded in death by a brother, Arthur Darnell.
As per his wishes cremation has taken place and internment of this ashes will be at Great Lakes National Cemetery. Memorial gifts may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice. Arrangements by Keck-Coleman Funeral Home.
David Milton Fogarty
David Milton Fogarty died peacefully with his family by his side on September 14, 2020. He is greeted in Heaven by his Lord Jesus and his brother and sisters. David was born in Wyandotte, Michigan in 1937 and was lovingly raised by Leo and Mary Byrnes of Ovid. He married JoAnn (Bartek) in 1962. They enjoyed living in the great community of Ovid-Elsie for all of their years.
David is was a very proud veteran of the United State Marine Corps and was quick to remind all he knew that the “Marines rule.” He enjoyed his family, playing cards, woodworking, and was always quick with a spirited discussion at family gatherings. He could always be found puttering in his work shop with a hammer, paintbrush and saw. He would give the shirt off his back to someone in need; however, could not give a “high 5” as his table saw was the winner of more than one altercation. Apparently, working with 10 fingers wasn’t a big enough challenge, so he did it with 8.5. He also enjoyed his morning coffee social with the guys. Along with JoAnn, they both enjoyed their travels via plane, train, and car to New York, Montana, and North Dakota to visit David’s birth family. However, they were always glad to return home.
Surviving him is his wife JoAnn, children Angelo, Jerome (Nancy), Gloria (Jim), Marcia and Julie; grandchildren Kristy, Stacey, Becky, Brandon, Mitchell, Nick, Kari, Jake, Cody, Cayden, Todd and Zack. He also had 8 great grandchildren.
David was an active member of St. Cyril’s Catholic Church in Bannister, a parish council member, participated in the Knights of Columbus and enjoyed singing in the choir. In lieu of flowers, please pay it forward with an act of kindness. Granting his wishes, there will be no services at this time.
The family is being served by Keck-Coleman Funeral Home.
Ilene Mae Shinabargar
Ilene Mae Shinabargar, 97, of Fowler, MI, passed away peacefully Monday, September 14, 2020, at her daughter and son-in-law’s home.
Cremation has taken place and a Private Service will be held at a later date.
Ilene was born in Ithaca, MI, on September 12, 1923, the daughter of Ray and Alta (Sturgis) McWilliams. She was the ninth of their thirteen children. Ilene married Clark Shinabargar. They were blessed with over 40 years of marriage when he passed away on March 3, 1990.
Ilene loved to golf and was a straight hitter. She enjoyed working in her yard and tending her flowers. Ilene tended her garden until she was 95 years old. Most of all, Ilene loved her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; she was “grandma” to all.
Ilene is survived by her son Bruce Shinabargar of Perrinton, daughter Colleen (Philip) Lovette of Fowler, and 2 daughters-in-law: Tracy Shinabargar Falor and Diane Biddinger. She is also survived by 9 grandchildren: Heidi (Jon) Reid, Todd (Kellie) Upton, Yvette Clark, Brett (Marilyn) Biddinger, Bobbie Shinabargar, Andrea (Pat) Murphy, Alex (Amy) Shinabargar, Scott Shinabargar, and Casey Shinabargar; 18 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Ilene was preceded in death by her parents, 1st husband Merlyn Biddinger (1946), 2nd husband Clark Shinabargar (1990), son Frank Biddinger (2016), son Brian Shinabargar (2006), and 12 brothers and sisters: Eva, Geneva, Mable, Wilford, Orville, Clifford, Charles, Leonard, Lester, Loretta, Virginia, and Ray.
Donations may be made to The Care Team (5401 Gateway Center Ste D, Flint, MI 48507) in honor of the excellent care they provided Ilene. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Ithaca, MI.
Maxine June Snyder
Maxine June Snyder, age 100, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 13, 2020. She was born on June 20, 1920, in North Star, Michigan, to the late Floyd and Edna (Zoss) Smith. Maxine graduated from Ithaca High School with the class of 1939. She enjoyed cooking and was known for her delicious pies, crocheting, and cross stitch. Maxine loved a good game of cards, playing bingo, listening to country music and dancing. Her hands were never idle as she cared for her family through many generations.
Survivors include her daughter, Lou Ann Myszak; son, Larry (Debbie) Croftchik; 8 grandchildren, Amy (Ed) Moats, Rick (Susie) Myszak, Angie (Rick) LaBar, Lori Tripp, and Deana, Liane, Dirk, and Derek Croftchik; 15 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; 3 husbands, Jim Keck, Ted Croftchik, and Don Snyder; sister, Mauriece (Wayland) Buckingham; and son-in-law, Richard Myszak.
A memorial service will be celebrated on Saturday, September 19, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. at the North Star Township Hall, 2840 E. Buchanan Rd., Ithaca, Michigan.
Maxine’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Addie’s Acres for the wonderful care they showed her.
To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Maxine’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com.
Charles (Chuck) Carpenter
Charles (Chuck) Carpenter, 79, died July 27, 2020. He was born on September 14, 1940. He was a 1958 graduate of Rodney B. Wilson High School in St. Johns MI.
According to his son, Chris, he was kind-hearted, caring, a bit flirtatious with the ladies and ornery from time to time.
His passion for photography produced some amazing works of art. He brightens up many people’s day.
His body has been cremated, and in the spring at a date yet to be determined there will be a party celebrating his life in Carpenter, Wyoming. Check his Facebook page for more details.
Stanley Jack Searles
Stanley Jack Searles, 82, of St. Johns, MI, entered into the arms of his Master Sunday, September 13, 2020, at his home surrounded by his family.
Funeral Services will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes – Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, MI, on Thursday, September 17, 2020 at 1:00 P.M., with Pastor Keith Stork and Pastor John Mattern officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Rest Cemetery, St. Johns, MI. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 16, 2020 from 2-8 P.M. with family present from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. at the funeral home.
Stan was born in Ithaca, MI on October 2, 1937, the son of Donald Wesley and Josephine (Myers) Searles. He attended Rodney B. Wilson High School and resided most of his life in the St. Johns area. Stan proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps. He worked 32 years for General Motors before retiring in 1992 and later worked in maintenance at St. Johns Public Schools with his close friend Mark Williams.
Stan married Millie Frayer on March 11, 1958 at the United Methodist Church in St. Johns. They were blessed with 62 years of marriage.
Stan loved spending time with his family. He always enjoyed family time at Crooked Lake and teaching each one to water ski. Stan and Millie liked to travel the country. He spent many hours tinkering in the garage with his “Garage Buddy”. Stan had a special cat “Blue Angel” and dog “Helio”. Stan and Millie have been active members of the St. Johns First Church of God for over 50 years.
Stan is survived by his wife Millie, and 6 children: Kathy Jo (Babek Lotfi) Kade of OH, Stanley Jack (Delia) Searles Jr. of IN, Julie Kay (Tad) Moore of FL, Wayne Charles Searles of Lansing, Kimberly Ann (Robby) McCune of St. Johns, and Paul Allen (Lyn) Searles of St. Johns. He is also survived by 18 grandchildren: BJ Staten, Justin (Addie Wycoff) Staten, Michelle (Jason) Morrison, Steven (Angelena) Moore, Ryan (Stephanie) Moore, Matt (Jessica) Moore, Brandon (Megan) Moore, Peter Searles, Eric Searles, Noelle Searles, Kyle Searles, Tyler Searles, Nicole Searles, Robby McCune, Ethan McCune, Danielle (Jordan) Terrill, Andrew (Elani) Searles, and Jacob (Alissa Malcolm) Searles; 25 great-grandchildren; brother Jerry (Barbara) Searles, many nieces and nephews. Stan was preceded in death by his father Donald Searles, mother Josephine (Ervin) Phinney, infant granddaughter Samantha McCune, brother Leon (Betty) Searles, and nephew Arthur Searles.
Memorials may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes – Osgood Chapel, St. Johns, MI.
Carol A. Eckley
Carol A. Eckley age 80 of St. Johns, MI passed away on September 13, 2020. She was one of 12 children born on December 10, 1939 in Ionia, MI the daughter of Serl and Ethel Weller.
Carol worked as an x-ray technician and was Director of Radiology at Clinton Memorial Hospital for many years. She loved playing golf and playing cards with friends.
Carol is survived by son Mark (Zara) Eckley of St. Johns and daughter in law, Carla Eckley of Grand Rapids. There are 7 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Carol was preceded in death by her son, Daniel.
A gathering of friends and relatives will be held on Friday, September 18, 2020, 5 – 7 P.M. at Keck-Coleman Funeral Home.
Gene F. Buckley
Gene F. Buckley, age 85 passed away on September 11, 2020 after a courageous battle with macular degeneration and end stage kidney disease. He was born on October 7, 1934 in Hetland, South Dakota the son of Frederick and Esther (Oanes) Buckley. Gene graduated from high school in Brookings, SD. He played on the team that won the state’s basketball championship title in 1952. While attending South Dakota State University he married Donna J. Nelson in Marshall, MN on June 17, 1956. Upon graduation from SDSU’s School of Pharmacy Gene then went on to serve in the U.S. Air Force.
Gene and his family eventually settled in St. Johns in 1973 where he worked as a pharmacist at Arnold’s Drug, Revco and finally Walmart until macular degeneration progression forced his early retirement. Gene was a member of St. Johns First United Methodist Church, Lions Club at which he was active in the White Cane fundraiser, loved pheasant hunting with his brothers, listened to hundreds of audio books from the library for the blind.
Gene is survived by his wife, Donna; son Brian (Cheryl) of Gilbert, AZ, daughter Beth (Tom) Humphrey of Marquette, MI; grandchildren Lauren (Brad) Humphrey-Stark of Ann Arbor, MI, Mitchell (Mary) Buckley and Sarah (Brandon) Sherwood all from in Mesa, AZ and great grandchildren, Aiden and Adelise Buckley both of AZ. He was preceded in death by 3 brothers and 5 nephews.
Graveside services will be held at Mt. Rest Cemetery on Tuesday, September 15, 2020 at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Kathy Leydorf-Keck officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Leader Dogs for the Blind, PO Box 5000, Rochester, MI 48308-5000. Arrangements by Keck-Coleman Funeral Home.
Divorce decrees filed the weeks of August 31 and September 7, 2020
Schaller, Caitlyn/ Becker, Trey
Lewis, Mary / Lewis IV, Glen A.
Stegenga, Kathleen / Stegenga, Jakeb
McDonald, Linda M. / McDonald, Sherman L.