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.

Richard Leo Dewey, 68, of Morenci, Mich., died Aug. 10, 2023, at Fulton County Health Center in Wauseon, Ohio.

He was born Nov. 28, 1954, in Adrian, Mich., to Herbert and Martha (Ziegler) Dewey. After graduating from high school, Richard served his country in the United States Navy.

On Nov. 18, 1977, Richard married Linda Good in Delta, Ohio. They were married for more than 44 years before Linda’s passing in January 2022.

Richard was a member of the Toledo Trap and Skeet Club, Morenci Sportsman’s Club, and the Wauseon and Rossford Legion posts. He enjoyed trap and skeet shooting and was an avid sportsman. Richard was known for being a handyman and could usually be found tinkering. Most importantly, Richard loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Richard is survived by his children William Bailey and Rebecca (and Philip) Mercer; seven grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; mother; brothers Ronald, Tommy and Tony Dewey; and sisters Cathy Hinkle and Karen Cox.

He was preceded in death by his father, Herbert; sister, Cheryl Mead; and one grandson. 

Cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this time.

R. Frank Cuff, 77, of Fayette, Ohio, died Aug. 3, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family.

He was born June 6, 1946, in Morenci, Mich., to Darling “Marvel” Russell. On Oct. 24, 1997, he married Betsy Hartman in Las Vegas, Nev. 

Frank proudly served his country in the U.S. Army ¾ Calvary 25th Infantry Division, C Troop, during the Vietnam War. Over the years, he remained in constant contact with his Division and military friends. Frank was very active in the VFW and American Legion posts, both locally and at the state level. He enjoyed going to auctions and car shows, and loved spending time with his family. 

Frank is survived by his wife, Betsy; children Jennifer (and Brent) Bassett, Traci (and Jim) Miller, Mark (and Madeline) Cuff, and Heather (and Craig) Weber; seven grandchildren; and brother Mike (and Amy) Cuff.

In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by his former wife, Shirley, and stepfather, Wayne Fackler. 

Visitation is scheduled Tuesday, Aug. 8, from 11 a.m. until the time of services at 1 p.m. at Rodenberger Funeral Home in Napoleon, Ohio . Military honors will be performed by the Fulton County Honor Guard. Interment will be held at a later time. 

Memorial contributions are suggest to the Henry County Humane Society, the Fulton County Humane Society, or an animal rescue charity of the donor’s choice.

William “Bill” C. Brown, 85, of Cedar Springs, Mich., died July 27, 2023, at home.

He was born Aug. 7, 1937, in Canandaigua, Mich., to Mahlon C. and Helena B. (Blaker) Brown. On March 9, 1987, he married Sharon H. Clark in Adrian, Mich., and she survives. Bill served in the U.S. Navy. He retired from General Motors after 28 years of employment.

Bill enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping. In his later years his health did not permit him to do all the things he enjoyed doing. Every day was a good day that was given to him from God.

In addition to his wife, Sharon, he is survived by six daughters, Patty Brown, Pam (and Patrick) Clifford, Paula (and Ken) Younkin, Peggy Decker, Penny (and Jeff) Chittenden, and Carol (and Tim) Anderson; 18 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and a brother, Dan Brown. 

He was preceded in death by his sister Betty; brother Glen; and son-in-law Jeffery Johnston.

Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. Monday, July 31, at Anderson Marry Funeral Home–Adrian, with Rev. William Van Valkenburg officiating. Visitation is planned from 11 a.m. Monday until the time of service at the funeral home in Adrian. Burial will be in Medina Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Corewell Hospice of Kent County.

Jo Ann Singles-Rotzien, 88, of Morenci, Mich., died July 23, 2023, at Regency on the Lake Nursing Home in Fort Gratiot, Mich.

She was born June 12, 1935, in Buchanan, Mich., to Philip and Virginia (Lister) Merrifield. On April 16, 1955, Jo Ann married the love of her life, Neal V. Singles. They raised a family of three children and spent more than 50 wonderful years together before his passing Dec. 20, 2005. In 2008, Jo Ann married Robert Rotzien and they later divorced.

Jo Ann was a member of the Morenci United Methodist Church since 1990. Above all, Jo Ann loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. In her free time, she loved creating and was a very talented artist including oil, watercolor, and China painting. Jo Ann also enjoyed gardening, planting flowers, singing, sewing, quilting, crocheting and tatting. She also had a love for many animals including cats, dogs and the wildlife in her back yard.

Jo Ann is survived by children Jim (and Kelly) Singles, Sheri (and Doug) Hillman, and Cindy Sutherland; 11 grandchildren, Michael, Stephen, Kristen, Karrie, Kirsten, Adam, Skye, DJ, Sarah, Brianna and Brooks; seven great-grandchildren; and one brother, James Merrifield.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Neal, and her parents.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service is planned at 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci, with Rev. William Van Valkenburg officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci. A memorial gathering is planned from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. before the service. An additional interment will take place at the Howe Family Cemetery in Buchanan, Mich., at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to the Lenawee Humane Society, Christian Mission Inc., and Marlette Regional Hospital - Hospice.

Betty J. Kunkle, 93, of rural Fayette,  Ohio, died July 26, 2023, at Fulton Manor in Wauseon, Ohio.

She was born April 7, 1930, to Dewey and Mildred (Keener) Newhouse. Betty married the love of her life, Gahlon W. Kunkle, on Jan. 21, 1951, in Swanton, Ohio. They shared nearly 63 years of love and memories before his passing Nov. 11, 2013.

Betty is remembered as a loving, proud, and strong-willed farmer’s wife. She took care of the needs of the family, including delivering hot meals to those working in the fields. Betty also served as an independent sales consultant, offering Tupperware, Beeline Fashions and Fuller Brushes throughout the years. She enjoyed belonging to bowling and card clubs, tending to her annual flower gardens, and being a reliable spectator at the sporting events of her grandchildren. In recent years, she enjoyed the companionship of her beloved Chihuahua, Peanut. Family was a priority to Betty, and no matter how busy she was, she always made time for her kids and grandchildren, whom she loved to jokingly tease.

Betty was a member of the Fayette United Methodist Church, and the Order of the Eastern Star. 

She is survived by three sons, Dewey (and Ivy) Kunkle of Fayette, Alan (and Christa) Kunkle of Fayette, and Roy (and Barb) Kunkle of Morenci, Mich.; daughter Joyce (and Tony) Watson of Waldo, Wis.; eleven grandchildren, DJ, Ben, Adam, Nathan, Jessie, Merissa, Glen, Gahlon, Jason, Ruben and Dillon; and 18 great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, Betty was preceded in death by a grandson, Shane Alan Kunkle.

Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. Monday, July 31, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette, with Pastor Reid Short officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery. Visitation is planned from 11 a.m. Monday at the funeral home until the service begins.

Memorial donations are suggested to the SAK Memorial Fund, Gorham-Fayette Volunteer Fire Association, or the Fayette United Methodist Church.

Norma J. Root, 87, of Morenci, Mich., died May 18, 2020, at Maple Ridge Assisted Living in Hudson, Mich.

She was born March 20, 1933, in Hudson, the daughter of Clarence and Mary Lucille (Blurton) Collar.

Norma was raised on the family farm just south of Hudson. She attended Hudson schools, playing clarinet in the high school band. A graduate of Hudson High School in 1952, she went on to work as a bookkeeper at M&S Manufacturing in Hudson and Gerity-Michigan Corporation in Adrian. On Oct. 18, 1955, she married Clare L. Root in Hudson, and he preceded her in death on Oct. 21, 2019.

Norma was a homemaker and dedicated farm wife, supporting the farm operations, running for parts, taking lunches to the fields, and maintaining the Telfarm books. She enjoyed cooking, sewing, needlepoint, teaching knitting for Medina Pioneers 4-H Club, and card parties with the neighborhood Birthday Club. Norma was a volunteer at the township election board and a longtime member of the United Methodist Church in Morenci. She enjoyed traveling with family and friends, and looked forward to wintering in Florida in the Lakeland area.

Surviving Norma are son Michael Root (and Mary Jo Mosiniak) of Morenci; daughter Pamela Root (and John Toth) of Allentown, Penn.; daughter-in-law Christine Root of Montpelier, Ohio; son-in-law Jan Brill of Raleigh, N.C.; grandchildren Chad (and Eve) Root of Hudson, Jason (and Jennifer) Root of Morenci, Miles, Joyce, and Jenny Brill all of Raleigh; and great-grandchildren Dodge, Brantley, Dixon, Blake and Lillian.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; and a daughter, Patricia Ann Brill in 1999.

A graveside service will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci, with Rev. Bill Van Valkenburg officiating. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to Alzheimer’s Foundation or to Morenci United Methodist Church.

Arrangements were handled by Eagle Marry Funeral Home, Morenci.

Ronald Lee Lichtenwald, 69, a lifelong resident of Fayette, Ohio, died unexpectedly July 22, 2023, in Angola, Ind.

Ron was born Jan. 4, 1954, in Hudson, Mich., the son of Douglas Leo and Irene Louise (Kutzley) Lichtenwald. On March 24, 1972, in Fayette, he and his beautiful bride Melody Jean Wilson were united in marriage at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church.

Ron, a proud entrepreneur, alongside his wife co-owned and operated Mel’s Place in Fayette for more than 27 years, selling the business in his recent retirement in 2020. He also started a trucking company—Borderline Express—with his son Doug, and Ron still loved to drive. One of his favorite pastimes was camping, and he was a seasonal camper at Hickory Acres in Edgerton, where he was renown as the “Pajama Man.”

A man of routine, Ron enjoyed his daily morning podcasts while enjoying “drinking a cigarette and smoking coffee”—likely the only downtime of his day. His greatest passion was his family, and he loved doting on his grandchildren, and he was always giving to them of his time and talents as a self-proclaimed “Jack of All Trades.” Ron never knew a stranger with his outgoing personality and his infectious and charming smile. He proudly wore his heart on his sleeve, and lived by the words “Fly High, and Keep on Truckin’”

Ron is survived by his wife of 51 years, Melody; sons Douglas (and Alecia) Lichtenwald of Fayette and Andy (and Autumn) Lichtenwald of Fayette; daughter Sarah (and JR) Asbury of Fayette; siblings David (and Becky) Lichtenwald, Kathy Amos, and Karen (and Curtis) Bentley all of Fayette; 11 grandchildren, Tori, Tara, Damon, Kruez, Jared, Justin, Alyssa, Aryn, Marcus and Jaelynn; four great-grandchildren, Kembryl, Thane, Tatum, and Paisley; sisters-in-law Ella Lichtenwald of Cape Canaveral, Fla., Charity (and Mike) Slyker of Fayette, Val (and Dan) Sweigart of Doraville, Ga., Ivy (and Dewey) Kunkle of Fayette, Angel (and David) Towers of Camden, Mich., and Felicia (and Bob) Stockman of Fayette; numerous in-laws and extended family.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brother Allan Lichtenwald; sister Vicki Lichtenwald; grandson Andrew Lichtenwald; nephews Shane Kunkle, Adam Lichtenwald and Tony Higgins; brother-in-law Billy Amos; and step-fathers Walter Jay Grau and Ed Figgins.

Funeral services are planned at 11 a.m. Friday, July 28, at Fayette Family Life Center in Fayette, with Pastor Vicki Schnitkey officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette. Visitation is scheduled from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 27, also at the Family Life Center.

The family suggests memorial donations be given to the AJL Memorial Fund.

Arrangements were handled by Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Fayette.

Judith Ann Donaldson, 85, of Woburn, Mass., died June 21, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Hudson, Mich., Judy was the daughter of Ralph and Elizabeth (Fisher) Moine. She was raised and educated in Morenci, Mich., and was a graduate of Morenci High School. She raised her own family in Hudson before moving to Toledo, Ohio, in the late 1970s. Judy moved to Massachusetts in 2013 and built a community of strong and loyal friendships.

Judy spent her career in administrative positions in educational settings, working for school superintendents and headmasters for decades. She was the epitome of organization and was considered the amicable and hospitable gateway to information and resources in every institution in which she held a position. Judy was a revered figure at Maumee Valley Country Day School in Toledo, where she worked for more than 30 years and for several heads of school.  Hers was often the warm and welcoming face that greeted students, faculty, staff and families as they entered the front door. Judy knew everything about Maumee Valley, and she loved sharing her knowledge with the community.

After moving to Massachusetts, Judy worked at the Winchester Public Library for many years as a library page, where her friendliness and organizational skills continued to make an impact on those around her. Judy always took care to learn as much as she could about everyone, a character trait she carried right up to her last days in the hospital. She valued every individual and wanted to convey that to them.

Judy dedicated herself to a life of service in various capacities. In Toledo, she volunteered at David’s House Compassion, an AIDS service organization, as a hospice volunteer. She loved spending time with the residents and their families, offering respite and kind words as they worked through their illness.  

For 34 years, Judy was a proud member of AA and helped many, many others in that community. She had a supportive warmth that people relished; she always made space for everyone and strongly believed in listening with an open mind and heart. Judy was passionate about letting others realize their worth. Upon moving to Massachusetts, Judy quickly became a leader, running the Tuesday night meetings at a local church, as well as attending other group meetings throughout the week. She built a strong legacy in her AA work, with friends near and far who sought her out for support, comfort and friendship. Judy loved and valued her AA family so much. She considered her career in AA as one of her greatest achievements.

In her spare time, Judy was an avid reader and crafter. Her favorite pastimes were drinking coffee while reading a great novel, stitching of all kinds, and spending time with friends and family. She also worked hard to learn about Boston sports teams and became very adept at discussing the Patriots, Bruins and Celtics. She ignored the Red Sox. Judy loved the family tradition of a Super Bowl Sunday, replete with Blue Ribbon BBQ and dozens of questions about how football works.

Judy fiercely loved her family. She always rooted, both out loud and quietly, for each family member and wanted to see them live their best life; she was constant in her praise and love for everyone. Judy was a special person who made each family member feel important and unique. 

Judy is survived by son Rick (and Michelle) Donaldson; daughters Liz Donaldson and Shawn (and David) Donaldson Macannuco; grandchildren Mike Donaldson, Tony (and Maegan) Sofo, Jr., Caroline (and Austin) Sofo Wild, Jude, Will and Luke Macannuco; great-grandchildren Sawyer Donaldson and Ella Louise Wild.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, sister Sally Allen and grandson Nick Donaldson.

Memorial donations are suggested to the Autism Housing Pathways (https://autismhousingpathways.org/donate/) or St. Jude’s Research Hospital (https://www.stjude.org/donate/), two organizations Judy held dear to her heart.

A memorial service is being planned for a later date.

Isabell L. Garland, 80, of Morenci, Mich., died July 8, 2023, in her home.

Isabell was born March 4, 1943, in Morenci, to Raymond and Leone (Rathbun) Youtzy. She retired from Fulton Industries after more than 30 years of working there. Isabell loved her family and spending time with them. She was always supportive of her grandchildren and always attended their sporting events and life moments.

Isabell is survived by her daughter Carrie (and Jake) Sigg of Wauseon; siblings Rita, Linda, Raymond, Allen, Carl and Louella; and grandchildren Chaney, Gavin and Cash Sigg.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Elwood Rathbun.

All services for Isabell will be private. Memorial donations are suggested to the American Cancer Society. 

The Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home of Wauseon assisted with arrangements.

Tommy A. Rupp, 76, of Fayette, Ohio, died July 6, 2023, at his home.

He was born Jan. 30, 1947, in Wauseon, Ohio, to Levi and Laura (Miller) Rupp. He attended and graduated from Chesterfield High School. On Feb. 4, 1978, he married Judith DeWulf at Olive Branch Church near Fayette, and she survives. Tom was a farmer in Chesterfield Township for many years; planting crops, and tending animals including milk cows, sheep, geese and chickens. He also held various manufacturing jobs, worked at Auto Zone, was a Fayette schools bus driver, and eventually retired from the Village of Fayette water treatment plant.

When Tom wasn't busy working, he enjoyed fishing, camping and gardening. He was a devout Christian, serving on the ways and means committee at Fayette Church of the Nazarene and delivering Meals on Wheels as part of the church. 

Tom loved all sports, especially the Ohio State Buckeyes, and coached many sports teams for Fayette over the years. He was a great family man and enjoyed any type of baked good Judy made.

In addition to his wife, Tom is survived by daughter Angela (and Brian) Roe; grandchildren Kyle, Kelsie (and Brandon) Reeves, Kendal Kuhn, Kyle Kuhn, and Asia and Luke (and Alison) Laguio; sisters Elaine (and Joe) Nofziger and Emagene (and Robert) Stuckey; and brother William Rupp.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Kimberly Sue Fruchey-Laguio; brothers Robert, Pete and James Rupp; and sisters Betty Falkenberg, Judith Metz and Laurene Rupp.

Funeral services are set for noon Saturday, July 15, at the Fayette Church of the Nazarene, with Rev. Andy Reynard, officiating. Visitation is planned from 10 a.m. until the time of service, also at the church. Interment will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette.

Monetary contributions are suggested to Fayette Church of the Nazarene.

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

Jane L. Stiriz, 85, of Fayette, Ohio, died July 2, 2023, at Cambrian Assisted Living in Tecumseh, Mich.

She was born in Wauseon, Ohio, to Earl and Fern (Kesler) Lane on July 18, 1937. Jane lived her formative years in Delta and was a 1955 graduate of Delta High School. Jane married Donald L. Stiriz on April 22, 1956. Together they raised six children and enjoyed more than 60 years of love and memories until his death April 9, 2017.

Devoted in her Christian faith, Jane attended Trinity Lutheran Church in Delta and Wauseon where she taught Sunday School. In later years she attended the Fayette Christian Church-Disciples of Christ and most recently, the West Franklin Methodist Church.

Jane’s passion was to be a teacher, and for many years she influenced the lives of many young children at Sunny Day Preschool in Delta. She was an active and proud Girl Scout Leader when her daughters were younger. In 1994, Jane and Don settled in Fayette, where they instantly became pillars of the business community. Together they owned and operated the Gaslight Inn restaurant for several years, restored several Victorian-era homes into bed and breakfasts, operated an antique mall, and were active with the Chamber of Commerce. They owned The Pizza Place with restaurant locations in Delta, Fayette and Stryker, Ohio, and Morenci, Mich.

Jane earned the title of Fayette Citizen of the Year in 1998, and she and Don were crowned Bull Thistle Queen and King in 2010.

An accomplished musician, Jane was notably skilled with the accordion, was an avid pianist, and played the dulcimer. She publicly entertained with several groups, including the Dulcimer Group and Musical Grandmas. Her zest for fine arts was also fulfilled through her time in volunteering at the Fayette Opera House where she once served as president of the Fayette Fine Arts Council, as well as through her efforts in creating and organizing what became the annual Fayette Fall Festival. Jane loved reading, peaceful walks, and hosting Victorian tea parties.

Surviving Jane are five daughters, Susan Bach of Sand Creek, Mich., Patricia (and Michael) Turpening of Wauseon, Ohio, Kristen Runyon of Fayette, Connie Stiriz of Adrian, Mich., and Jodi (and Dennis) Bird of Lancaster, Ohio; a son, Rick (and Stacey) Stiriz of Delta; 16 grandchildren, Jesse, Jacob, Sarah, Jordan, Melissa, Ross, Jonah, Josiah, Gracie, Taylor, Tessa, Alyssa, Lane, Kyle, Sydney and Dylan; and 14 great-grandchildren, Forrest, Freeda, Charlie, Logan, Lillian, Hayden, Theo, Ezekiel, Asher, Elijah, Olivia, Jayden, Wayland and Everly; and two siblings, Ann Schaffner of Dexter, Mich., and Dick Lane of Sheridan, Mich.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Lane.

Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. Friday, July 7, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette, with Rev. Bill VanValkenburg officiating. Burial will follow in Zion Cemetery in York Township. Visitation is planned from 11 a.m. until the service begins.

Memorial donations of books or money are suggested to the donor’s local library or to the Fayette Fine Arts Council.

Maurice (John) Burton Simpkins, 87, of Morenci, Mich., died June 24, 2023, in his home.

John was born Oct. 27, 1935, to Earl and Dora (Shaffer) Simpkins. He was a Morenci High School graduate, class of 1953.

On Aug. 27, 1956, he married the love of his life, Nancy Simpkins, and she survives.

John was known as a very hard worker. He worked for Bancroft Cleaners, then retired from Morenci Area Hospital as maintenance supervisor. He also farmed his land in Morenci. He had a passion for woodworking and was a master craftsman. He also enjoyed working on and restoring old tractors.

In addition to his wife Nancy, he is survived by son John (and Debra) Simpkins; three daughters, Connie (and Merton) Easler, Bonnie Khan, and Ann (and Jonnie) Tompkins; four sisters, Betty Hall, Barb Baker, Bev Cowell and Sharon Schmidt; 12 grandchildren, Joshua (and Kim), Nicholas, Cory, Trevor (and Amanda), Mujibur (and Emmie), Stephanie (and Josh), Matt (and Megan), Haley, Matea (and Kyle), Brandon (and Ashley), Chelsea (and Kyle) and Kyleigh; 22 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Arnold, Ronald and Lanny; two sisters, Wanda and Shirley; great-granddaughter Miley Marie.

Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Wednesday, June 28, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Visitation is planned from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 27, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home. Burial will follow the funeral service at Sand Creek Cemetery

Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee.

Jeffrey Colegrove, 67, of Fayette, Ohio, died June 23, 2023, at CHP Defiance Inpatient Hospice Home.

He was born Jan. 19, 1956, in Hudson, Mich., the son of Leslie “Bus” and Virginia (Kline) Colegrove. He graduated from Gorham Fayette High School in 1974. On Oct. 7, 1983, he married Joyce Bostelman and she survives.

Jeff had many loves in his life, but his grandkids topped that list. Playing cards with his family was another beloved pastime. He loved all sports and his favorite teams were the Ohio State Buckeyes, Pittsburgh Steelers and Detroit Tigers. In his younger years, he especially enjoyed golfing. Music was another love of Jeff’s, with AC/DC being his favorite band. He loved to go for drives and report his findings to those around Fayette and his family. The “Colegrove Shuffle” was a dance named after him.

Jeff is survived by his wife Joyce; daughter Jamie (and Ben) Sly; grandchildren Braylon, Brogan and Bexsly Sly; brother John Colegrove; sisters Marjory (and Fred) Shadbolt and Connie Vinton; brothers-in-law Don Behrman, Jack Lugbill, Jerry (and Janice) Bostelman, Lee Frazee and Terry (and Cheryl) Bostelman; and sisters-in-law Sandy Bostelman and Shelly (and Ron) Luzar.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Barb Colegrove-Schaffner and Sherry Colegrove-Smith; brother-in-law Larry “Bud” Bostelman; and sisters-in-law Mary Ellen Colegrove, Carol Behrman, Linda Lugbill, Mary Jane Frazee and Cindy Bostelman.

Visitation is planned from 3 to 7 p.m.  Wednesday, July 5, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Cremation will follow and there will be no funeral.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for future designation.

Gerald Loyd “Gerry” Snead, 57, of Adrian, Mich., died June 18, 2023, at ProMedica Charles and Virginia Hickman Hospital.

Gerry was born Jan. 9, 1966, in Morenci, Mich., to Loyd A. and Isabelle P. (Amos) Snead. He was extremely artistic, creative and inventive. Among other mediums, drawing and painting were his two favorites. He also loved to put together model cars and would place them in scenes. Gerry loved to watch dirt track auto racing, with Chevrolet being his favorite make of car. Building and riding bicycles were another of his favorite past-times. He also enjoyed fishing, gardening, and just being out in nature.

Gerry is survived by his mother and step-father, Isabelle and Robert C. Johnson; siblings Terry (and Trula), Rick (and Valerie), Leroy, and Roger Snead, Rob Johnson, Jr., and Leann (and Lonnie) Morgan; and brother-in-law Todd Herrera.

He was preceded in death by his father, Loyd; grandparents; and sister Dawn Herrera.

Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 24, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci, with Pastor Heather Schimmel, officiating. Interment will follow at Ridgeville Cemetery. Visitation is planned from 2 to 7 p.m. Friday, also at the funeral home.

Memorial donations are suggested to the Lenawee Humane Society or the American Heart Association.

Lee R. Peterson, 85, of Rochester, Minn., died June 7, 2023.

Lee was born Nov. 2, 1937, to Roy and Violett Peterson in Chicago, Ill. He grew up on Lake Minnetonka before his family moved in the early 1950s to southern California. After school, he worked with an electrician, then as a salesman at the family clothing store in Calimesa, Calif.

He married Annabelle McCaskey in November 1961, and they later divorced. They lived in San Bernardino, Calif., where they raised one daughter, then later retired to Morenci, Mich.

Lee enjoyed boating at local lakes and camping trips to the Colorado River. He loved playing cards and passed time by reading automotive and RV magazines.

Lee is survived by his daughter Leanne and (Rob) Tumbleson of Mantorville Minn.; grandchildren Amanda (and Luke Stewart) of Rochester, Troy Tumbleson of Kasson, Minn., Melissa (and Taylor) Wait of Kasson; six grandchildren; Annabelle; and three nieces, Pam, Sandy, Debbi and their families.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents and his sister and brother-in-law, Florence and Walter Fisher.

Evelyn Marie Fox, 76, of Hudson, Mich., died Saturday, June 10, 2023, at ProMedica Toledo Hospital.

She was born in Hoxie, Ark., on Sept. 25, 1946, to Charles R. Seabolt and Hazel L. Jacobs, and raised by Veda St. John. Evelyn attended Pittsford High School. On June 6, 1964, she married Robert D. Fox in Ransom, Mich., and they recently celebrated 59 years of marriage.

After raising her children and starting them in school, she went back to school at Jackson Community College, and eventually graduated from Hillsdale College, earning bachelor degrees in elementary education and English. She then studied at Siena Heights University, nearly completing her master’s degree. Evelyn began teaching at Morenci Area Schools, retiring in 1998 after 24 years.

  Evelyn had many loves in her life, especially her family, her students and reading. She had a genuine thirst for knowledge, reading any type of book she could. She was known to read the first and last chapter of a book, then read the entire book to see if it lived up to the plot. She would also donate her used books to anyone who needed them. The students at the school were very important to her. She would often spend her own money buying anything a student may need, from school supplies to clothing. She did this of her own choosing and never sought any type of recognition. Often no one knew where the money came from.

She was a fabulous cook and baker. Evelyn would give anyone her baked goods just to make them happy. She was a huge Elvis Presley fan, loved flowers and gardening, Happy Dragons, classic cars and television, and was a collector of angels and antiques. Her Pekingese dogs were another love of her life. 

Surviving are her husband Robert; children Kari and Heath (and Kimberly) Fox; grandchildren Myleigh (and Michael) Harger, Jonathan Boulis, and Katera and Eryn Fox; great-grandchildren Cameron McCloe, Killion Bable and Barrett Harger; brothers Charles and John Seabolt; and sisters Janice Klaus, Darci Jakeway, Cathy Shingledecker and Sue Deroeck. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; step-mother Claretta Seabolt; sister Joy Hodges; and brothers Tom and Carl Seabolt.

Cremation will take place and a memorial service will begin at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 17, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci, with Rev. Bill VanValkenburg officiating. Visitation is planned from 1 p.m. until the time of service.

 Memorial contributions are suggested to Morenci Kiwanis Club for the backpack program.

David Lee Armstrong, 76, of Carthage, N.C., died June 2, 2023, at Moore Regional Hospital, surrounded by his family.

David was born Sept. 30, 1946, in Fayette, Ohio, to Leo Armstrong and Irene Riddle Armstrong.

He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. He spent most of his career as an electrician at GM Powertrain Defiance Foundry in Ohio. He was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle and friend, who always had time for a cup of coffee and a chat. He was a hard worker who cared deeply for his family and his dog Dutchess. His laugh and good humor will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Dawn Brogan Armstrong; daughters Kristine Prisk of Ohio, Jen Armstrong (and Glen Mannering) of Massachusetts; sisters Margaret (and Fred) Berg of Florida, JoAnn (and Jim) McLaughlin of North Carolina; brother Freddy Armstrong of Ohio; step-grandchildren Owen Prisk and Mason Brisk of Ohio; and many loving nieces and nephews across the country.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother James Armstrong.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 6 p.m. Friday, June 9, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette, Ohio. A private family graveside service will be held at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci, Mich.

Memorial donations are suggested to Moore Humane Society in Carthage, N.C., or to a local animal rescue.

Chad Alan “Jumbo” Miller, 45, of Fayette, Ohio, died June 5, 2023, at ProMedica Toledo Hospital after an 18-month battle with cancer.

Chad was born Feb. 6, 1978, in Hicksville, Ohio, the son of Jeffry A. and Anita L. (Sanders) Miller. He married Amanda Sinks on Aug. 1, 2020, in Delta, Ohio, and she survives.

Chad was a 1996 graduate of Gorham-Fayette High School and was a longtime employee of Wauseon Machine.  He was currently employed by TRONAIR in Toledo as a machining engineer. Chad enjoyed camping in his super camper, spending time with his family, showing livestock, especially goats, and listening to country music. He was also the proud owner of a lime green Dodge Challenger.  

In addition to his wife, Chad is survived by daughters Kennedy and Emersyn Sinks; parents Anita and Jerry Van Zile of Fayette and Jeff and Laura Miller, of Sherwood, Ohio; siblings Dana Miller, of Archbold, Ohio, Travis (and Roses) Miller of Reynoldsburg, Ohio, Sam Miller of Sherwood, Jacob (and Katelyn) Miller of Warsaw, Ind., Tiffany Proper of West Unity, Ohio, and Andrew (and Kristal) Van Zile of Morenci, Mich.; grandparents Bill (and Linda) Miller of Bryan, Ohio, and Helen Van Zile of Montpelier, Ohio; and brothers-in-law Randy (and Ashleigh) Miller of Wauseon, and Brad (and Tara) Miller of Delta; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, John and Maxine Sanders, Sharon Miller, and Orren Van Zile.

Visitation is planned from 3 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 9, at the Junior Fair Building at the Fulton County Fairgrounds in Wauseon. A service celebrating Chad’s life will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 10, at the Junior Fair Building at the Fulton County Fairgrounds, with Pastor Don Kreiger officiating. Interment will be private.

Memorials are suggested to Fulton County 4-H or the Fayette Athletic Boosters.

Krill Funeral Service of Edgerton is handling arrangements.

Michelle M. (Shelley) McNutt, 66, of Fayette, Ohio, died at home June 1, 2023, surrounded by her family.

She was born June 25, 1956, in Defiance, Ohio, the daughter of Paul W. and Mary B. (Hunt) Linebrink. She graduated from Defiance High School. On Nov. 29, 1975, she married Thomas H. McNutt in Defiance, and he preceded her in death Dec. 14, 2021.

Shelley worked in administration in the mental health field for many years, retiring in June 2021. She was a member of the Fayette Church of the Nazarene. Volunteering with children brought her so much joy, and she was able to do that through her involvement with Sunday School at the church as well as working with kids at Learning Friends. She also enjoyed flowers and gardening, crocheting, and cross stitch.

Shelley is survived by children Brian (and Beth) and Jennifer McNutt, and Andrea (and Nick) Longenecker; grandchildren Alex (and Ashlyn) and Madison Smith, Lauren and Tyler Longenecker, and Collin and William Bitter; and sister Amy (and John) Thomas. 

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents.

Cremation will take place and a memorial service at planned at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 8, at the Fayette Church of the Nazarene, with Rev. Andy Reynard officiating.

Monetary donations are suggested to Fayette Church of the Nazarene, Bindi's Service Dog Certification, or Learning Friends. The Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette is assisting with arrangements. 

Marilyn E. Madalinski, 90, died June 2, 2023 at Blissfield Place Assisted Living, Blissfield, Mich.

Marilyn was born April 22, 1933, in Columbus, Ohio, to Donald and Elise (Heffner) Myers. She graduated from DeVilbiss High School in Toledo, Ohio, in 1951 and studied to be a laboratory technician upon graduation. On a blind date, she met Victor J. Madalinski. They were married Aug. 9, 1952, and spent nearly 65 years together until Victor’s death in 2017.

At the beginning of their marriage, they lived on a farm in Ottawa Lake, Mich. They moved to a farm near Munson, Mich., in 1959 and lived there until 1976 when they moved to Petersburg, Mich.

Marilyn will be remembered for her quick wit, her love of “country” decor and her enthusiasm for sports. She especially enjoyed watching the Pistons (she loved Isaiah Thomas) in their heyday, Michigan State football and basketball. When Tiger Woods was winning, she enjoyed watching golf, also.

Marilyn enjoyed a clean and tidy house as much as she disliked cooking. Marilyn kept abreast of current events and was a dedicated Democrat. She was a proud fan of both Hilary Clinton and Barack Obama.

 After Victor retired, he and Marilyn took long road trips throughout the United States. They enjoyed visiting historical homes of U.S. presidents. 

 Marilyn is survived by her children Michael of Palm Springs, Calif., Mark (and Amy) of Blissfield, and Dana (and Alan) Goldsmith of Ann Arbor; granddaughters Sara Goldsmith and Abby Madalinski and grandson Ryan Madalinski; and many nieces and nephews, including special nieces Stephanie Kramer-Vetrone, Susan Evans, Teresa Stansbury and Roseanne Varran.

She was preceded in death by her husband; infant son Scott; brother Dave; her parents and several in-laws.

Marilyn will be buried in Petersburg Pleasant View Cemetery.

Giovanni Stella, 91, of Morenci, Mich., died May 28, 2023, at Fulton County Health Center in Wauseon, Ohio, with his family by his side.

Born April 2, 1932, in Kilsyth, West Virginia, he was the son of Ferdinando and Josephine (Cinotti) Stella. Spending his formative years in the foothills of West Virginia, Giovanni eventually moved and settled in the Detroit area, finding work at Ford Motor Company. Giovanni graduated from Mackenzie High School. He continued his education at the Henry Ford Trade School in Dearborn, Mich., and completed his electrical apprenticeship. 

On June 10, 1961, Giovanni married the former Elizabeth Smith in Kilsyth, W.V. She survives to cherish nearly 62 years of love and memories. Elizabeth and “Johnny”, as Mrs. Stella affectionately referred to him, have three sons, Giovanni (“Jon”) A. Stella of Cleveland, Ohio, Greg Stella, and Andrew Stella (and Kim Massaro) of Mosherville, Mich.

In 1991, he retired from his position as maintenance supervisor with Ford Motor Company in Dearborn, after 42 years of service. Giovanni maintained several jobs throughout his lifetime, sometimes two at a time. He worked in production, metal finishing, and in small electrical shops. 

The Stella family lived in Detroit, Farmington and Livonia, before settling in Morenci. Giovanni began farming after he moved his family to the Morenci area. He served as a volunteer during the construction of Stair Public Library, where Mrs. Stella was the director for many years. He refurbished the shelving and built the circulation desk with his son, just to name a few projects. 

He was a faithful and active member of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Fayette. There he spent many hours volunteering with his good friend, Jim VanAssche, who preceded him in death. In his spare time, you could find Giovanni gardening, volunteering and working on his numerous projects. He was also a member of M-156 Sodbusters Farm Bureau Community Action Group.

In addition to his beloved wife, Liz, and their three sons, Giovanni is survived by his siblings Rose Ann Vanover of Beckley, W.V.; Ferdinando (and Carol) Stella of Sartell, Minn.; and Luigi Stella of Daniels, W.V.; grandson Nikolas Stella of Grand Rapids, Mich.; and sister-in-law Sylvia Hall of Centreville, Va.

Giovanni was preceded in death by his brother Pasquale Stella; sister Carolina Click; sister-in-law Mary Stella; and brothers-in-law James Vanover, Maynard Click and Robert Hall.

Cremation will take place and a graveside service and Rite of Committal are planned at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 17, in Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to two of the places that Giovanni used his time, talents, and efforts to support with his heart – Stair District Library, 228 W. Main St., Morenci, Mich., or Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, Fayette, Ohio.

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

George Augustus Glendening, 95, of Morenci, Mich., died May 20, 2023, at the home of his daughter in Montpelier, Ohio. 

George was born Aug. 28, 1927, in Pittsford, Mich., the son of Miles and Margaret (Emerich) Glendening. He married Verena Grace Clymer on Feb. 28, 1954, in Pittsford, and she preceded him in death Sept. 6, 2014.

George attended Pittsford Area Schools and served in the Merchant Marines and Army during the Korean Conflict. He enlisted in the Merchant Marines at the age of 16, as an oiler, seaman and messman to the captain. George was the first to be drafted out of Hillsdale County to serve during the Korean Conflict. During his time in the military, he met his lifelong friends Harry, Max and Lou.

He was employed with Campbell Soup Company for many years and retired from Eklund Broach, in Morenci.

In his free time, George enjoying being outside with activities including hunting, fishing and camping with the family. George always had dogs throughout his married life with Sammy being his sidekick and companion after Verena passed away.

George is survived by son Gary (and Cindy) Glendening of Cottonwood, Ariz.; daughters Penny (and Rick) Nivison of Pittsford and Glenda (and Paul) Smith of Montpelier; three grandchildren, Melissa Stokesberry, Tyler Smith and Rachel (and Erik) Gier; nine great-grandchildren, Dakota and Emerson Stokesberry, Graycen, Owen and Dawson Gier and Gauge, Axel, Ryker and Colt Smith.

In addition to his wife, George was preceded in death by his parents; one son, George Michael Glendening; and siblings Betty Fernands, Burl Glendening, Geneva Sayles and Helen Patrick.

Cremation has taken place and a memorial celebration is planned from 4 to  6 p.m. Friday, May 26, at the American Legion in Morenci. The inurnment will take place later in Leonardson Cemetery, Pittsford.

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

Cynthia E. Allion, 103, of Morenci, Mich., went home to be with the Lord May 22, 2023, at the Lenawee Medical Care Facility in Adrian, Mich.

She was born Feb. 25, 1920, in Fulton County, Ohio, the fifth child of Lee and Ethel (Ratcliff) Van Valkenburg. On May 27, 1940, Cynthia married the love of her life, Lavern T. Allion. He preceded her in death in 1969.

Cynthia was a member of Morenci First Baptist Church and she and Lavern were active as group leaders for Jet Cadets, and Junior and Senior High youth groups. While Lavern was fighting in the Pacific arena during World War II, Cynthia worked at Hurd Lock in Adrian making ammunition.

Cynthia is survived by their two children, James (and Marilyn) Allion of Bryan, Ohio, and Melanie Beck of Morenci; grandchildren Julie Tomaszewski of Bryan, Angela Parsons of Indiana, Stacy Beck of Morenci, and Erin Beck of Morenci; step-grandchildren Craig (and Chrissy) Kammeyer and Brice (and Kim) Kammeyer, both of of Arizona; and a brother, John Van Valkenburg of Prattville, Ala.

In addition to her husband and granddaughter Jennifer Lynn Allion, she was preceded in death by her parents; a son-in-law, Doyle Beck; and five of her siblings, Florence, Francis, Doris, Dorothea and William.

In accordance with Cynthia’s wishes, no public services will be held. Private burial with the family will take place in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

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

Cayden Lane Cook, 16, of Morenci,  Mich., died May 18, 2023, doing what he loved, the result of a dirt-bike accident.

Born July 11, 2006, in Adrian, Mich., he was a twin son of Jason and Heather (Bachelder) Cook.

Cayden was a junior at Morenci Area Schools and played basketball for the Bulldogs. He enjoyed fishing and loved dirt bikes, enjoying hundreds of miles of care-free rides. He is remembered as fun-loving, being goofy or instigating arguments, all in good nature. He was selfless and his sweet smile could light up a room. The past two years he grew as a young man alongside his true love, Zoie Mitchell. Cayden made sure his mom knew every day how much he loved her, with a hug, a kiss, and an “I love you.”

Cayden is survived by his parents, Heather Cook (and Troy Burr) and Jason Cook (and Teri Hilyard), both of Morenci; brothers Wyatt (and Taylor) Cook of Clayton, Mich., Jarett (and Madison) Cook of Adrian, and his twin brother Kenden, at home; maternal grandparents Dave and Julie Bachelder of Morenci; paternal grandparents Doug and Melanie Cook of Hudson, Mich.; maternal great-grandmother Carol Bachman of Hudson; paternal great-grandfather Earl Cook, Sr., of Clinton, Mich.; maternal uncles and aunt Shawn Bachelder and Christy Bachelder (and Isaac Lester) of Morenci; paternal uncle and aunts Doug (and Tammy) Cook of Toledo, Ohio, and Alycia Gutierrez of Hudson; nephews Kashtyn and Grayson; numerous cousins and extended family. 

He was preceded in death by his maternal great-grandparents James Bachman and Hal and Mary Bachelder; and his paternal grandmother, Jean Cook.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 25, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. Friday, May 26, at Morenci Area Schools, with Pastor Darren Lemmon officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

Memorial donations are suggested to the family.

Helen Irene (Rowland) Peebles, 96, of Wauseon, Ohio, died April 27, 2023 at CHP Hospice, Defiance, surrounded by her family.

She was born March 12, 1927, to Clare Milo Rowland and Dortha Irene Shumaker Rowland. Helen lived most of her life in Lyons, Ohio, until moving to Wauseon to live with her daughter.

Helen graduated from Lyons High School in 1945. She married Harold “Hap” Peebles on June 28, 1947,  at the Lyons Christian Church. Hap preceded her in death in 1997.

Helen worked for Lyons Grain and Coal and was a partner with her husband at Hap’s Pure Oil Station in Lyons. Later they owned and operated the Trading Post Restaurant at Mann’s Corners for many years. Helen retired from Toledo Trust Bank, Lyons office, in 1987.

Helen was a member of Lyons Christian Church, a member and past president of the James W. Kahle VFW Auxiliary post #7574, Past Worthy Matron of the Order of the Eastern Star, and a life member of the Lyons Historical Society. She also served as a poll worker in Lyons for the Board of Elections for several years.

Helen enjoyed spending winters at her home in Winter Haven, Fla., and summers at her cottage at Nettle Lake with family, playing cards and dominoes. She was entertained by her grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. Helen was a sports enthusiast and loved  the Detroit Tigers. She was thrilled to meet NBA player Tracy McGrady when he often visited his grandmother, a Florida neighbor.  She was also an avid fan of the Detroit Pistons, and sportscaster Johnny Kane, a family friend, gave her a “shout-out” as a top fan during a broadcast. She was a daily presence on social media where she kept in touch with old friends, and made many new acquaintances who followed her postings on Facebook.

Helen is survived by daughter Penny (and Jeffrey) Waack of Wauseon; granddaughters Kendra (and Jason) Batdorf, Hayley (and Justin) Baldwin, and Whitney (and Nick) Lavinder, all of Wauseon; grandsons Joshua (and Kat) Peebles of Chicago and Cory (and Missy) Peebles of St. Louis, Mo., step-granddaughter Lara Frankenberg; great-grandchildren Delaney and Bowen Batdorf; Benjamin and Ella Clare Tule, Addison and Travis Baldwin; Lola, Karsyn, Lucas and Kynlee Lavinder; Isabeau and Ava Seiler, Oaken Peebles; and Declan and Bennett Peebles; two sisters Jeanette Fleck of Marysville and Kathy (and Dan) Damiano, Ft. Myers, Fla.; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her  parents, husband and son, David; sisters Wilma Hinkle, Louise Smith and Joan Bauer; and brothers-in-law Albert Hinkle, Robert Smith, Arden Hallett, Dick Bauer and William Fleck.

Visitation is planned from 10 to 11 a.m. May 13 at Lyons Christian Church, followed by services at 11, with Pastor Heather Schimmel officiating. Interment will follow at Lyons Cemetery.

Memorials contributions are suggested to Lyons Christian Church or Lyons Historical Society.

Arrangements were made with Weigel Funeral Home.

Evan E. Miles, 71, of Morenci, Mich., died unexpectedly April 29, 2023, at his home.

Born April 2, 1952, in Hudson, Mich., he was a son of James and Dorothy (Fausey) Miles. A lifelong Morenci resident, he graduated from Morenci Area Schools with the Class of 1970.

Evan worked as a forklift operator at several nearby factories, including McCord Gaskets in Wauseon, Ohio, MIG Plastics in Fayette, Ohio, and Sanoh America in Archbold, Ohio, formally retiring in 2014.

He had a lifelong passion for fishing, and was a life member of the Bass Masters Fishing Club. Later in life, he proudly provided habitat for fish in large aquariums in his home. Evan also loved Volkswagens and attended car shows whenever he could, traveling near and far. He possessed a great knowledge of mechanics and enjoyed rebuilding engines and dune buggies. He had a love of dogs, especially fond of English bulldogs, raising and breeding them through the years. 

He is survived by daughter Angie (and Chuck) Ely of Morenci; son Joe Miles of Chester, Va.; brothers Doug (and Barb) Miles of Morenci, Bob (and Rosemary) Miles of Morenci, and Jim Miles of Fort Wayne, Ind.; and six grandchildren, Krystal, Brandt, Steven, Eric, Sierra and Alexis.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Nancy Dilworth.

Cremation has taken place and no services are planned. 

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

Charles R. Emch, 84, of Pompano Beach, Fla., formerly of Brooklyn and Morenci, Mich., died May 3, 2023, in Virginia Beach, Va.

Charles “Chuck” was born and raised in Morenci. He was a graduate of Eastern Michigan University and chose education for a career. He taught in Dade County (Miami, Fla.) schools, Waldron Area Schools, Columbia, and Hanover-Horton school systems. He enjoyed coaching for 13 of those years. Chuck also enjoyed traveling, small construction projects with friends and social gatherings with family and friends.

He is survived by three daughters Cloann (and Carl) Harris of Bridgeville, Del., Colleen (and Harry) Gier of Virginia Beach, and Cheryl (and Terry) Kiefer of Jackson, Mo.; six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; sister Judy Sutherland of Morriston, Fla.; brother Douglas (and Fran) Emch of Howell, Mich.; three nephews and one niece. 

He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Mary (Mellott) Emch.

A family memorial service is planned at his gravesite at Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Special Olympics or to a charity of your choice. 

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

Dona J. (Humphrey, Schaffner) Roberts, 87, of Adrian, Mich., died Dec. 30, 2022, at the Hospice of Lenawee Home.

Dona was born Nov. 6, 1935, at the home of her parents, Donald B Humphrey and Leona H. (Goodwin) Humphrey in Ashtabula, Ohio. She graduated from Ashtabula High School in 1953 and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the Ohio State University, School of Home Economics College of Agriculture in 1957. Dona earned a Master of Arts of Teaching from Siena Heights College in 1967. Dona was a lifelong student and educator. She also attended classes at the University of Toledo, Michigan State University and Hillsdale College.

Dona was employed by the Ohio State University as a Home Economics Extension Agent in Medina County where she met and married Richard G. Schaffner. The couple moved to Morenci, Mich., in 1961 where they farmed, taught school, and raised their three children. The family was active in the community and at Trinity Lutheran Church. Dona taught fourth grade in Morenci for 17 years before she accepted a position as the Home Economics/4-H Youth Development Extension Agent for Defiance County, Ohio. Dona had a special interest in 4-H international programs and facilitated the placement of many Costa Rican exchange students during her time in Defiance. She transferred to Holmes County in 1995 where she worked as a 4-H Youth Development Educator until her retirement in 2004. In 2002, Dona was recognized for outstanding work with youths by the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents.

Dona married John G. Roberts on Feb. 14, 2004, after a whirlwind romance. They travelled and pursued shared interests until his death in 2013. Dona and John were members of Grace Brethren Church in Wooster. Her faith and community service were a strong influence on many who crossed her path.

Dona is survived by her children James (and Tara) Schaffner of Monterey, Tenn., David (and Erin) Schaffner of Dover, Ohio, and Sarah (and Doug) Schrock of Zone, Ohio; grandchildren James A. Schaffner, Abigail (and Brenden) Beard, Eric (and Chelsea) Schaffner, Andrew Schaffner, Nicholas (and Grace) Schaffner, Jaiden Corley, Katherine (and Klein) Gnagey, Hannah (and David) Weiss, Ian Schrock and two great-granddaughters; brothers Douglas (and Mary Jane) Cordell and Richard (and Elaine) Humphrey; stepchildren Pam (and Jim) Fulton, Phillip (and Rita) Roberts, Steve (and Karen) Roberts, Aleta (and Ed) Griffie; step-grandchildren Dakota, Zane, Gabriella, Ezekiel, James, Destiny, Orion, Starla, Lydia and Evan, as well as numerous in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

Dona was preceded in death by her husband John, her parents and sister La Jean.

A celebration of Dona’s life is planned at 11 a.m. May 27 at Grace Brethren Church in Wooster. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Defiance County 4-H Endowment; Hospice of Lenawee, or the educational charity of your choice.

Paul Powers, 90, of Adrian, Mich., died April 24, 2023, at Charlotte Stephenson Manor in Adrian.

He was born Aug. 11, 1932, in Chesterfield Township, Ohio, to Donald J. and Irene S. (Thomas) Powers. On March 8, 1952, he married Imogene Reid. They were married for 68 years and she preceded him in death Sept. 19, 2020.  Paul proudly serviced his country in the United States Navy from 1952 to 1960. He retired from General Motors in 1994 as a mechanic. 

Paul is survived by his daughter Susan (and Duane) Bickerstaff of Onsted, Mich.; sons Tracy (and Julie) Powers of Stockbridge, Mich., and Myron (and Teresa) Powers of Adrian; sister Janice (and Jim) Limbacher of Adrian; brother Dennis (and Juell) Powers of Overbrook, Kansas; five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and a step-granddaughter.

In addition to his wife, he is preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services are planned at 3 p.m. Thursday, April 27, at Anderson Funeral Home in Adrian, with Fr. Michael Newman. Burial will follow at Lenawee Hills Memorial Park in Adrian. Visitation is from 1 to 3 p.m. Thursday.

Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee. 

Immo Paul Fischer, 79, of Lyons, Ohio, died peacefully at home, with his family at his bedside, April 17, 2023.

He was born Nov. 9, 1943, in Dabel Germany, to Hans H. and Gertrude (Warkentin) Fischer. He was an immigrant of Germany, but always considered himself an American and nothing else. Immo enlisted in the United States Army and served his tour of duty in Germany in the Recon Tank Division from March 14, 1961, to March 7, 1964. He achieved sharp shooter with the M1 rifle and expert in the 45 pistol and 45 SMG.

He married Sandra Sue Frick on May 30, 1964.

Immo worked for Tecumseh Products and Toledo Steel Tube, and was an avid gardener. He was known for his gigantic garden full of many varieties of vegetables, but mostly his prize golden nugget sweet corn and hundreds of tomato plants. He would give away his bountiful harvest to family, friends and neighbors. He cherished his friendship with Harlan “Fuzzy” Barden and Earl Burgess who were his tenant farmers. Immo enjoyed hunting and shooting and was a history buff. He loved reading about history and visiting historic sites. Immo was a devoted family man, and as the boys were growing up, he coached Little League baseball.

Immo is survived by his wife of 59 years, Sandra; sons Michael (and Kathleen Eisel) Fischer, Joe (and Mary Jo Kreuz) Fischer and Steve Fischer; grandchildren Josh (and Jade Lautenschlager) Fischer, Matthew Fischer, Michael (and Taylor Kashmer) Fischer, Collin Fischer, Jacob Hansen and Drew Hassen; great-grandchildren Koen, Kade and Krew Fischer; sister Gesine “Gus” Czerniak; sister-in-law Deborah (and Norman) Krause; nieces Laura (and Tim) Knapik and Amy Czerniak; and nephews Dale (and Marla Homan) Krause and Norman Krause.

Immo was preceded in death by his parents and nephew Gregory Czerniak.

Visitation is planned from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, April 21, at Weigel Funeral Home in Metamora, Ohio. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 22, at the funeral home, with Pastor James Mann officiating. Interment, with military honors, will follow at Lyons Cemetery.

Memorial donations are suggested to Promedica Ebeid Hospice.

Gary Winzeler, 71, of Morgan Hill, Calif., died April 3, 2023, surrounded by his family.

Gary was born Jan. 17, 1952, in Morenci, Mich., to James and Ann Winzeler.

Gary served in the U.S. Army for three years, beginning in 1971, and spent part of his service deployed in Korea. His military service was a source of great pride for him. Gary’s faith in God was an essential part of his life, which he lived guided by his strong beliefs. He was known as a man of great character. His kindness, compassion, and generosity touched the lives of many.

Gary was a natural salesman. He had a magnetic personality and an ability to connect with people, which made him an asset in any industry. He was a dedicated and hardworking individual who never shied away from a challenge.

Gary loved baseball and could often be found cheering on his favorite team, the San Jose Giants. He was a loving father to his son, Blake, whom he coached throughout childhood. Gary enjoyed scuba diving and spending time with Blake in Hawaii, where they made many cherished memories together.

Gary is survived by his son Blake (and Sarah) Winzeler; brother Jim (and Wenying) Winzeler; and sister Darlene (and Jerry) Sallows.

Gary was preceded in death by his sister Linda.

Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. May 2 at Grace Hill Church in Morgan Hill.

Dorothy Faith (Dot) Dister, 99, of Morenci, Mich., passed peacefully from this life to be with God early Monday morning, April 10, 2023, at Fairlawn Haven, Archbold, Ohio.

Born in New Bedford, Mass., on Nov. 30, 1923, Dorothy was the daughter of Percy Acheson and Ruth Virginia (Burton) Woodland.

Dot graduated from New Bedford High School in 1941 and went by train to Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware, Ohio, for college. She graduated in 1945 with a degree in chemistry. Convinced she was a better “people person” than a chemist, despite an offer of employment at Dow Chemical, Dot began a lifetime leading Christian Education with Rev. Robert Byler in Columbus, Ohio. When Rev. Byler was appointed to Hamilton (Ohio) First Methodist Church, Dot was offered a job as the Director of Christian Education. This is where she met and married the love of her life, Joseph George Dister on June 18, 1948.

Dot and Joe made their first home in Hamilton, Ohio, until Joe felt the call to ministry, where he went to seminary at Boston University. Their son, Robert, was born there and Joe felt it was better to be a “good layman than a bum preacher” so they returned to Hamilton. Dot and Joe made many lifetime friends at BU. Their first home was in Overpeck, Ohio, on a two-acre farm, and Joe opened Dister Grocery with his father, Oscar, at 7th and Campbell in Hamilton.

As a homemaker, Dot planted a huge garden of vegetables and flowers, canned and froze produce, raised chickens and rabbits, and stayed home until their daughter Joanne was of kindergarten age. Dot was first hired as a kindergarten teacher part-time with Hamilton Public Schools. She then got a M.Ed. from Miami University in reading. Dot transitioned to a full-time reading specialist. She recognized the need for extra help for children in the inner-city of Hamilton and developed a program called One-to-One. She recruited college students, especially teachers-to-be, to come to Hamilton one day a week to be matched up with children for an after-school program of homework help, snacks and games. Dot ran her volunteer program for several years and made numerous good friends. 

Dot and Joe both retired in 1985 and moved to Morenci to be an active part of Little People’s Place, a Montessori Pre-School and Day Care Center. Her gardens were always immaculate and she tutored many Morenci Elementary students both in school and at their home and volunteered at the Adrian Rea Center for Literacy. They were members of Morenci United Methodist Church, served on numerous committees, and led children’s Sunday school.

Dot and Joe moved to Leipsic, Ohio, in the final years of Joe’s life, who died on Feb. 21, 2001. They made many friends, however, Dot returned to Morenci to be closer to family and friends. She led chair aerobics into her early nineties, continued with her daily devotionals, and was an avid prayer warrior for loved ones. Dot was creative and well-known for her knitting, dried flower cards, prayer group, neighbor visitation, cards of encouragement, and flower gardens. Dot took great delight in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and loved knitting special items for their births, baking, and canning together. Gramma Dot left a legacy of encouragement and acceptance to all. 

Surviving is her son, Rev. Robert (and Patricia) Dister of Clayton, Mich.; seven grandchildren, Vicki Hover, Shawn Ryan, Joshua (and Nikki) Sewell, Tony (and Andrea) Kelly, Rev. Joy Dister-Dominguez (Ricky), Joel (and Addie) Kelly, and Kati (and Isaac) Helms; and 15 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Dot was preceded in death by her husband, Joe; her parents; her sisters, Ruth (Sukie) Edwards and Jean Reed; and her daughter, Joanne Faith Helms.

A Celebration of Life will begin at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 27, 2023, at the Morenci United Methodist Church with the Rev. Joy Dister-Dominguez officiating. Cremation has taken place and will be interred at a later date.

Condolences may be sent to the family at dister.r@gmail.com or PO Box 98, Clayton, MI 49235. Memorial contributions are suggested to Morenci United Methodist Church, General Fund, or a church of your choice.

Jacquith D. “Jackie” Blue, 85, of Fayette, Ohio, died April 10, 2023, at her home, surrounded by her family. 

Jackie was born at home Nov. 9, 1937, in Edon, Ohio, to Donald and Juanita (Cook) Kaiser.

Jackie graduated from Edon High School with the Class of 1955, before attending Bowling Green State University. She immediately joined the workforce, and was first employed in the mortgage-loan department of Lincoln Life Insurance in Fort Wayne, Ind. She married the love of her life, Burton A. Blue, on July 25, 1959, at the Edon United Methodist Church, in a ceremony presided by Rev. Larry Hard. They made their home in Edon until moving to Fayette in 1983.

Jackie was employed with the United States Postal Service for more than 30 years, working first at her hometown Edon, before serving as Postmaster in Lyons for five years as well as in Pioneer for seven years, ultimately retiring in 1999. 

Saved by her Christian faith, Jackie was a lifelong Methodist, and was a current member of the Fayette United Methodist Church. Of equal importance to her was her family, whom she adored. She was delighted to share how lucky and blessed she felt to have special relationships with her all of her extended family. Later in life Jackie and Burt traveled to Mexico during winters, and they made cherished memories with their children and grandchildren at numerous family vacations. Jackie supported all of the athletic activities of her coaching husband, as well as their children and later grandchildren. She was a dependable fan who traveled near and far learning and appreciating each sport.

In addition to her husband, Burt, Jackie is survived by two sons, David (and Christine) Blue of Hicksville, Ohio, and Thomas (and Terri) Blue of Santa Claus, Ind.; four grandchildren, Taylor, Logan, Stephanie and Neil; and two great-grandchildren, Aaliyah and Reid.

Jackie was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Stan Kaiser; and a son, Steven Jeffrey Blue.

Funeral services are planned at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 13, at Fayette United Methodist Church, with Pastor Reid Short officiating. Cremation will follow and burial of her cremated remains will take place at a later date in Edon Cemetery. Visitation is scheduled at the church from 2 p.m. Thursday until the service.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Family Life Center or a charity of the donor’s choice.  

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

Rosalyn Ann Van Valkenburg, beloved wife of the Rev. William Van Valkenburg, was carried by the angels to her new heavenly home on Friday, April 7, 2023. 

Known by her family and friends as “Rosie,” she suffered a stroke while doing dishes in her home on Saturday, March 25. The rescue squad transported her to Charles and Virginia Hickman Hospital where it was quickly determined she needed critical care, so the decision was made to transfer her to Toledo ProMedica Hospital. After being a patient in the neuro ICU unit for over a week, physicians determined nothing more could be done so Rosie was then transferred to the Hospice of Lenawee Home in Adrian, Mich.

Rosalyn was the oldest child and daughter of the late Rev. Robert and Margaret (Bowles) Chroninger. She was born in Angola, Ind., on May 14, 1949, and because she was born into a pastor’s home, she lived in a number of locations while growing up. After graduating from Heath (Ohio) High School in June 1967, Rosie attended Ohio State University for one year and then transferred and graduated from the former Fort Wayne Bible College in June 1972.

She worked as a substitute teacher in the Columbus, Ohio, school system for one year before being offered a position as a sixth grade teacher in the Gorham-Fayette school district in Fayette, Ohio. She thoroughly enjoyed teaching the sixth grade and especially enjoyed taking the sixth graders for overnight camping adventures at Camp Palmer.

Her Christian faith was very important to Rosie so while teaching in Fayette she attended the Oliver Branch Christian Union Church near Fayette. The church called a new pastor in September 1977 and on Jan. 7, 1978, this new pastor, the Rev. William Van Valkenburg, attended a quartet concert on the campus of Spring Arbor College. Six week later, in February 1978, Pastor Bill and Rosie were engaged and on June 10, 1978, they were joined together as husband and wife at the former First Baptist Church of Morenci, Mich.

In October 1983 the Van Valkenburgs accepted a call to lead the ministry of the Seneca Community Church where they remained for almost 30 years. While at Seneca, Rosie proudly served as the First Lady of Seneca and enjoyed leading a number of Ladies Bible studies, teaching Sunday School and Junior Church.

Bill and Rosie were blessed with the birth of three sons: William Francis, Andrew Wesley and Timothy Joel. In December 1988, the Van Valkenburgs purchased the Sager place which sat across the road from the church and for almost 20 years Rosie added her special touch in creating a beautiful and peaceful environment both inside and outside the house. With almost 3,000 square feet of space, Bill and Rosie sought to enhance the Victorian charm of their home which had been constructed in 1879. For many years they hosted an annual Christmas Open House where generally more than a hundred people would come and view all the Christmas decorations (including 15 decorated trees) and to enjoy Rosie's many culinary treats.

After moving to Seneca, Rosie was hired as a part-time employee in the offices of Aget Manufacturing in Adrian. She began her employment in August 1988, became a full-time employee in June 2001 and retired from Aget in May 2015.

Early in their years in Seneca, one of the church members and local gardening expert, Virginia Shoemaker, took Rosie under her wings and introduced her to the colorful world of perennials. Virginia taught Rosie the importance of passing on both her knowledge and starts of various plants and flowers.

Rosie also enjoyed cooking delicious meals for her family and baking cookies and cakes. For many years the entire family gathered around the dining room table to enjoy delicious Sunday lunches. Bill was always in charge of preparing the main courses while Rosie prepared the salads and desserts. As much as Rosie enjoyed being “Mom” to their three sons, her life changed greatly once the nine grandchildren began arriving. Five grandsons arrived first: Austin, Raymond, Will, Leighton and Rowen and they were followed by four granddaughters, Payton, Gwendolyn, Blake and Evalynn, and Rosie loved them dearly.

Rosalyn is survived by her husband, William; two sons, William (and Melissa Beal) and Andrew (and Desireé); and eight grandchildren: Raymond Stickler, Will, Leighton, Rowen, Payton, Gwendolnn, Blake and Evalynn Van Valkenburg.

She was preceded in death by her youngest son, Timothy Joel (and Lydia) and grandson Austin Baxley.

Visitation is planned from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, April 9, at Anderson-Marry funeral home in Adrian, and from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday at Seneca Community Church. A celebration of life service will take place at the Seneca Community Church at 1 p.m. Monday, April 10, with her husband, Rev. William Van Valkenburg officiating. Burial will be in the family plot in the Porter-Packard Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests making donations to the family and funds will be divided up between a number of organizations including, but not limited to, Hospice of Lenawee and Living Water International (a Christian organization that digs water wells in underprivileged communities in foreign countries).

William J. "Bill" Mallette, 78, of rural Morenci, Mich., died April 1, 2023, under the care of Hospice of Lenawee.

Bill was born Jan. 8, 1945 in Wyandotte, Mich., to Emil S. and Ruby E. (Jones) Mallette. He attended school to the tenth grade and then served his country in the United States Marine Corp. Upon his return, he worked as a truck driver for 40 years, retiring from Estes Express.

In his free time, Bill enjoyed hunting and fishing, and watching TV shows about hunting and fishing. He also enjoyed the shows Mom and Castle.

Bill is survived by his partner Judy Carpenter; sons William L. and Joseph Mallette; daughter Rebecca Meier; grandchildren Tyler Meier, Matthew and Corey Mallette, and Michael Landers; three great-grandchildren; and a brother, Lynn.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Gary, and a grandson, Michael Mallette.

Cremation will take place and there will be no services.

Memorial donations are suggested to Lenawee County Humane Society.

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

Leasa Carol Slocum was born Nov. 16, 1960 in Sikeston, Mo. She departed this earth March 30, 2023, surrounded and held by her loved ones, at the age of 62.

Leasa attended Thomas Kelly High School in Benton, Mo., and graduated from Bay City Western High School in Auburn, Mich., in 1979. She continued her education at Owens Community College in Perrysburg, Ohio.

Prior to moving to Morenci, Leasa worked in the mental health field in Midland, Mich., as a caseworker, advocating and caretaking for others. Once Leasa moved to Morenci, she embraced the community. She worked for the City of Morenci in the city offices and  served on the city council. She worked at Borchardt Brothers Market in Morenci as a manager and her niece and nephew had the pleasure of working alongside her for a few years. Leasa also worked for the Hope Center in Adrian, Mich., and thrived in that role helping the members of that center. After that she found her way to the DS Johnson and Associates insurance agency which then became her last prominent position in Morenci, helping others with any of their insurance needs.

Leasa was a resource to others, a helper to her core, and a spot of sunshine to whoever was around her.

She dearly enjoyed spending her time with husband Art. It didn’t matter what they were doing, it just mattered that they were together.

Leasa excelled at being a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, cousin, aunt, friend and neighbor. She had a heart designed for loving, protecting and showing up for her people and anyone that might have needed her.

Leasa is survived by her husband, Arthur Lewis Slocum, Jr.; her parents, James Ray Howard and Carolyn Lea Howard. She is the mother of EJ Martin (Brandy Martin) and the grandmother of Miles Ray Martin.

Leasa was the loving oldest sister of Kara Suzanne Blake and Emily Kathryn (and Gregory) LeCompte.

She was preceded in death by her only brother, James Christopher (and Leeann) Howard in 2014. Leasa was an exceptionally loving aunt to Chelsea Howard, Jay Howard, Evan Howard, Griffin and Cecilia LeCompte, Alex and Angel Blake, and Brooke Schooley and Megan Hammond. She was a great-aunt to Lila Howard, Violet Keller, Roslyn Howard, and Walker and Ryker Schooley, Markie Blake and Morgan Wood.

Visitation is planned from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 4, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Funeral services will begin at 2 p.m. Wednesday following visitation from 1 to 2 p.m., also at the funeral home, with Pastor Roy Sutherland officiating.  Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery.  

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for future designation.  

Mary Ann Hoffman, 79, of Archbold, Ohio, died March 28, 2023, at Fairlawn Haven in Archbold.

She was born May 10, 1943, to Walter L. and Lucille (Cox) Wulff in Delta, Ohio. She married Jerry Hoffman on Aug. 5, 1962, in Delta, Ohio, and he preceded her in death Oct. 30, 2020. 

 Mary Ann was a housewife and also served as a pastor’s wife to Jerry, who pastored the Canandaigua Community Church. She enjoyed playing the piano, singing, sewing and gardening. 

 Mary Ann is survived by four sons, Jeffrey Hoffman of Fairlawn, Va., Daniel (and Tonia) Hoffman of Morenci, Mich., Michael (and Cynthia) Hoffman of Morenci, and Dick (and Rose) Hoffman of Adrian, Mich.; three daughters, Rose (and Richard) Hoag of Fayette, Ohio, Sue (and Todd) King of Onondaga, Mich., and Thelma (and Clark) Carncross of Johannesburg, Mich.; one brother, Thomas (and Sandy) Wulff of New York; 16 grandchildren; and 13 great -grandchildren.

 In addition to her husband, Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents. 

Visitation is planned from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday, April 2, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci Chapel. Funeral services will immediately follow visitation on at 3 p.m. with Rev. Darren Lemmon officiating. Burial will take place in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci. 

 Memorial contributions are suggested to Canandaigua Community Church or Elara Caring Hospice. 

Cherie Anne Snyder, 56, died March 28, 2023, at her home. She was born April 3, 1966, in Morenci, Mich., to Harold “Pete” and Janet (Brown) Shadbolt.

 Cherie was a 1984 graduate of Morenci Area High School. On Aug. 10, 1990, in Toledo, Ohio, she married the love of her life, Michael Greg Snyder. He survives.

 Cherie enjoyed gambling, and notably has played in every casino in the State of Michigan with the exception of Detroit. Her favorite pastime was traveling to the Upper Peninsula, where she had anticipated spending her retirement years. Most especially, she loved making memories with her beloved grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, Cherie is survived by her parents, Pete and Jan Shadbolt of Bryan, Ohio; daughter Brandi Snyder (and Jason Sharrock) of Morenci; son Jacob Snyder of Morenci; sister Kim (and Bill) Gett of Lucerne Mines, Pa.; grandchildren Trinity, Braylee, Isaac, Raidon and JayLynn; brother-in-law Timothy (and Donna) Snyder of Reading, Mich.; and sister-in-law Renae (and Kim) Sabourin of Onsted, Mich.

 She was preceded in death by her brother, Mark Shadbolt; her parents-in-law, Paul and Patricia Snyder; and a brother-in-law, Patrick Snyder.

 Cremation will take place and there are no services planned at this time.

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

Michael Joe Sonnenberg, 66, of Fayette, Ohio, died March 23, 2023, at St. Vincent Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio.

Michael was born Jan. 25, 1957, to Julian and Lorraine (Camera) Sonnenberg, in Toledo, Ohio. Michael proudly served his county in the Army. He married Gerda Krausch on Oct. 5, 1985, in Giesen, Germany.

Michael was very dedicated to the Army and was a member of the American Legion Post in Napoleon, Ohio, VFW, and AMVETS. He was a big Detroit Lions and Ohio State football fan. Michael enjoyed playing fantasy football. He especially loved spending time with his family.

Besides his wife Gerda, he is survived by sons Michael and William Rayburn; and daughters Angela Clark and Diana (and Robert) Somerlott; five grandchildren, William Webster, Nicole Somerlott, Jacoby Clark, Dillian Somerlott, and Kortney Somerlott; and brother Patrick (and Kristie) Sonnenberg. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter in infancy, Pamela Sonnenberg; and son-in-law, Jacob Clark.

Cremation has taken place.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for future designation. 

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

Norieta Jean (Emmons) McMunn, 84, formerly of Conneaut, Ohio, died Thursday, March 2, 2023, at her home in London, Ohio, following a battle with metastatic breast cancer.

Norieta was born Sept. 3, 1938, in Fayette, Ohio, the oldest daughter of Ansel and Arlene (King) Emmons. She was a 1956 graduate of Chesterfield High School and graduated from Bowling Green State University with a degree in education.

Norieta was a retired elementary school teacher. She and her husband Charles were foster parents to more than 25 children. She was a former member of East Conneaut United Methodist Church in Conneaut, Ohio, and member of First United Methodist Church in London, Ohio. Norieta was a member of United Methodist Women for several years and always supported her church in any way she could.

She enjoyed reading, cross‐stitch, crocheting, word search puzzles, baking, and especially time spent with friends and family. She loved to socialize and had many close friends. She was a regular attender at the Madison County Senior Center and enjoyed exercise classes, movies, and other special events. Norieta was a member of the the Dazzzling Divas of Washington Court House—a chapter of the Red Hat Society—and a former volunteer for Heartland Hospice (now known as ProMedica).

Norieta was known for being such a kind and compassionate friend. She was always thinking of others, from checking on an ill friend, or offering to drive friends to their appointments, she always put others’ needs ahead of her own. She was a second Mom to so many children during her 10 years of fostering. She stayed in contact with many of the children she cared for, and as adults, they still looked to her for love, support and guidance.

She is survived by her son Todd McMunn (and Debbie Dunham) of Columbus, Ohio; her daughter Colleen (and Jeffrey) Miesse of Galloway, Ohio; two grandchildren, Gabrielle McMunn of Toledo, Ohio, and Clay Miesse of Galloway, Ohio; siblings Neree (and Geraldine) Emmons of Fayette, Ohio; and Marie (and Bruce) Cottrell of Morenci, Mich.; and several nieces and nephews.

Norieta was preceded in death by her parents, and her loving husband of 59 years, Charles McMunn, whom she married June 13, 1959, and preceded her in death Dec. 2, 2018.

A memorial service is planned Saturday, March 25, at First United Methodist Church, 52 N. Main Street, London, OH 43140. Family and friends are welcome to pay their condolences from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the service to follow at 1 p.m.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society or the First United Methodist Church of London.

Ronald William Shaffer, 65, of Morenci, Mich., died March 2, 2023, at ProMedica Toledo Hospital.

Ron was born Oct. 22, 1957, in Morenci, the son of George and Dora (Goff) Shaffer and was a graduate of Morenci Area High School with the class of 1976. On July 25, 1980, in Morenci, Ron married Joanne Deshler, and she survives.

Ron was employed as an auto body technician at Clift Pontiac for 33 years. Since 1988, Ron camped at Green Valley Campground where he loved to build fires. He was a member of the Morenci Eagles where he served as an officer for 32 years, the Morenci American Legion, and Adrian Moose. He loved to work, was a “jack of all trades,” teaching his son and grandsons the ropes. Ron never met a stranger and was a very friendly guy. He enjoyed bowling, golf, going Up North, morning coffee rides, and “Walmart” trips with family and friends.

In addition to his wife, Joanne, he is survived by one son, Devin (and Kelsey) Shaffer; two grandchildren, Reife and Trase Shaffer; three brothers, David (and Susan), Glen (and Marlan), and Roger (and Brenda) Shaffer.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a niece, Hillary Shaffer.

 Visitation is planned from 1 to 6 p.m. Sunday, March 5, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci. A remembrance ceremony will begin at 1 p.m. Monday, March 6, at the funeral home. The family requests casual dress for both events. Cremation will follow.

 Memorial contributions are suggested to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Ronald Rae Ford, 60, of Pittsford, Mich., died Feb. 26, 2023, at his home.

Ronald was born March 2, 1962, in Fort Benning, Ga., to Richard and Arleta (Edmonson) Ford. He had been employed at Rima Manufacturing Company, retiring in June 2020. He enjoyed tractors, Harley Davidson motorcycles, classic cars and target shooting.

Surviving Ronald is his daughter Alyssa (and Glade) Turner of Metamora, Mich.; brothers Randy (and Lynn) Ford of Schoolcraft, Mich., Robert (and Kathy) Ford of Morenci, Mich., and Roger (and Carla) Ford of Morenci; sisters Rebecca Bismack of Morenci and Rhonelda (and David) Craig of Clayton, Mich.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers-in-law Bill Bismack and David McCullough; and nephew Dustin McCullough.

Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 2, with visitation from 11 a.m. until the time of the service at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci. Burial will be held in Porter- Packard Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

James N. Fallon, 79, of Fayette, Ohio, died Feb. 18, 2023, at his residence.

Jim was born Dec. 25, 1943, in Morenci, Mich., to Harold and Verda (Ford) Fallon. He graduated from Morenci Area High School. On March 16, 1980, he married Joyce A. Bailey at the First Congregational Church in Morenci, and she survives.

Jim held several jobs in his lifetime, retiring from Sauder Woodworking. 

Jim loved spending time with his grandchildren and his fur babies. He loved to collect antiques and signs, many of which he would lend to the Fayette Historical Society, of which he was a member. He was also a member of the Fayette Church of the Nazarene.

In addition to his wife, Joyce, Jim is survived children Shawn Quigley, Jennifer (and Cole) Landon, and Michelle Williams; grandchildren Damion and Trinidy Sell, Madison Landon, Steven (and Jolynn) Williams, and Chelsea (and Kyle) Erving; and sister Bonnie (and Larry) Elarton.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son David Fallon; and son-in-law Alden Williams.

Cremation will take place and a memorial service will be planned at a later date. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for future consideration.

Eagle-Marry Funeral Home – Fayette Chapel is handling arrangements.

Michael Francis Romanowski, 74, of Morenci, Mich., died Jan. 25, 2023, at his home, surrounded by family.

Michael was born June 7, 1948, in Jackson, Mich., the son of Frank and Stella (Kulas) Romanowski. On Aug. 28, 2007, in Sevier County, Tenn., he married Brenda S. Jewell, and she survives.

Michael had been employed at Martinrea International–Jonesville as a tool and die maker, retiring Oct. 1, 2021. Michael was a member of the Morenci Fraternal Order of Eagles. He enjoyed watching baseball, football and basketball, as well as attending the Toledo Mud Hens and Toledo Walleye games. He enjoyed traveling to Shipshewana for the flea markets and vacationing up in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and in San Antonio, Texas, with his siblings. He liked going to the movies, country concerts and spending time with his family. 

In addition to his wife, Brenda, Michael is survived by three sons, Tom (and Trina) Romanowski of Hudson, Mich., Bob (and Stacy) Romanowski of Tecumseh, Mich., and Mark (and Allison) Romanowski of Ypsilanti, Mich.; two brothers, John and Joe (and Holly) Romanowski, all of Jackson; two sisters, Suzanne (and Jerry) Fitzpatrick and Margaret Walicki, all of Jackson; two step-sons, Mike (and Vicky) Goodlock of Waldron, Mich., and Marty (and Nelly) Goodlock of Hinckley, Minn.; grandchildren Teá Shong, Bree Romanowski, Trey Romanowski, Ben Romanowski, Bailee Romanowski, Hanlin Romanowski and Stella Romanowski; step-grandchildren Victoria Goodlock, Robyn Goodlock, Hunter Goodlock and Tianna Bell; and step-great-great-grandson Jude Iris Bell.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Francis “Bud” Romanowski; sister-in-law Bonnie Romanowski; and step-son Matthew Goodlock.

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will begin at 11 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 19, at the Hudson Community Center (Senior Center).

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family to help with funeral expenses.

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

Sterling “Wes” Wesley Clark II, 67, died Feb. 6, 2023, of a heart attack.

Wes was born Aug. 9, 1955, in Wauseon, Ohio. He grew up on a family farm near Wauseon and graduated from Wauseon High School in 1973. Following graduation, Wes attended barber school in Toledo, Ohio, and became a board certified barber. With his license, he initiated his life as an entrepreneur where he owned barbershops in Wauseon, Toledo and Morenci, Mich. Over time, Wes sold his barbershop business and started a new career as a flooring designer for both homes and businesses. He initiated this phase of this career by developing his own carpet and tile store in Morenci. Homeowners and businesses in Ohio, Michigan and Florida sought out Wes for his expertise on flooring design and high quality installation.

Wes lived in Florida for many years and recently returned to Michigan to be with his family. He was a friend to many, from a wide range of backgrounds. He looked out for the underprivileged and always wanted to help his friends and family. Wes enjoyed golf, bowling, the beach, his friends and family.

Wes married Emma Willingham and they had a daughter, Lindsey. He married Lisa Smith and they had a son, Sterling III, and a daughter, Jacqueline. Wes married Shannon Gore and they had sons Logan (and Sydney), Tyler and Caleb. Wes has eight grandchildren, Sabra, Kaylan and Zain, Gwendolyn, Vivienne and Eloise, Wyatt and Leo. Wes is also survived by two sisters, Beverly Clark-Wyse and Pamela Clark.

Wes was preceded in death by his mother and father, Sterling and Marilyn (Armbruster) Clark.

Visitation is scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m. Friday, Feb. 17, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci, with funeral services starting at 3 p.m. Cremation will follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Eagle-Marry Funeral Home to help offset the cost of the funeral.

Kevin Ray Booher, 61, of Wauseon, Ohio, died Feb. 8, 2023, at his home. 

Kevin was born April 14, 1961, in Hudson, Mich., to Janice Booher, and she survives. He married Pamela R. Waldfogel on April 15, 2008, and she survives.

Kevin was a 1979 graduate of Morenci Area High School and worked as a herdsman for Emmons Family Farms in rural Fayette, Ohio, until his early retirement due to illness.

He was very proud of each and every one of his children and grandchildren and they meant the world to him. He loved anything Harley-Davidson and loved to ride. He loved the outdoors and working out in the yard with flowers and plants.

Kevin also loved his little dog Harley, his constant companion. Kevin will be remembered as a kind soul who loved those around him deeply.

In addition to his wife, Kevin is survived by his mother, Janice Booher Lockwood of Hudson; children Leland (and Emma) Booher of Perrysburg, Ohio, Nicole (and Mike) Bays of Morenci, Kyle (and Abbie) Booher of Toledo, Ohio, Kevin (and McKenzie) Booher II of Wauseon; step-daughter Jennie (and Eric) Oyer of Wauseon; grandchildren Hayden, Harlee and Matthew Bays, Lincoln, Abel, Calvin, Lily, Colton, Weston, Ella and Titan Booher; step-grandchildren Darion Wade, Lane Oyer, Hunter Corley, Jaxson Oyer, Alayna Corley, Justice Corley and Evelyn Corley; step-great-grandchild Daxton Wade; siblings Kim (and Jeff) Roe of Lake Havasu City, Ariz., Melvin (and Sheena) Bryan of Hudson, and Keith (and Jenny) Bryan of Florida.

Kevin was preceded in death by step-father Merle “Stub” Lockwood; grandparents Leland and Dorothy Booher; and step-daughter Krystal Corley.

Visitation is planned from noon to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, at Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home, Wauseon, followed by a memorial service and celebration of life at 1 p.m. Inurnment will be held at a later date in Wauseon Union Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Fulton County Humane Society.

Richard S. Phillips, 79, of Delta, Ohio, and formerly of Fayette, Ohio, died  Feb. 8, 2023, at St. Vincent Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio, surrounded by his family.

Richard was born Jan. 16, 1944, in Hudson, Mich., to Howard and Eugina Phillips. On Oct. 2, 1965, he married the love of his life, Patricia Bittinger.

He worked as a farm hand during his school years, a job he very much enjoyed. Richard was a 1962 graduate of Waldron High School and attended Michigan State University the following year. After finishing school he spent time working in the manufacturing business and for Mobil Oil. He spent the majority of his time in the manufacturing business at Fayette Tubular Products in Fayette and Ohio Art in Bryan before transitioning to civil engineering at the Air National Guard base in Swanton where he retired.

He enjoyed camping, Michigan State football, spending time with family and friends, story telling, gardening, traveling with family, and attending Sunday morning service at the Fayette Nazarene Church with his wife.

As an outgoing and extremely friendly person, Richard loved to share a story and laugh with everyone he came across. He liked saying he never met a stranger, he only met new friends. His favorite pastime was tinkering in the garage. Richard also loved to help family with household projects such as remodeling, electrical work, dry walling, HVAC, repairing appliances, and all manners of handyman activities.

In addition to his wife, Richard is survived by two daughters, Sherri (and Dave) Harris and Christy Shadbolt; son Shane Phillips; sister Deb (and Mel) Schaedler; sisters-in-law Bonnie Bittinger, Pam Gambler and Barbra Phillips; 10 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and many members of his extended family.

He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents;  parents; son Scott Phillips; son-in-law Mark Shadbolt; daughter-in-law Marquita Woodring; two older brothers; four older sisters, and four brothers-in-law.

Visitation is planned from 1 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 12, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 13, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, with Pastor Andy Reynard officiating. Burial will follow at the Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette.

Memorial donations are suggested to the family for future designation.

Marjorie "Marty" LaFern Ely, 92, went to be with the Lord on Jan. 25, 2023.

Marty was born Aug. 5, 1930, the daughter of Orin and Verlah Keller. 

Marty married Marvin Ely on Sept. 14, 1947, and lived the majority of her life in Morenci, Mich.

Marty was known as a very creative person. She was a wonderful seamstress, but also loved knitting, crocheting, smocking and quilting. Her creative talents also were expressed in painting and ceramics. Marty and Marvin loved to travel both in the United States and abroad. Later in life, they belonged to a local camping group. As parents, they wanted their children to explore the world, whether by camping or touring.

Marty was a lifelong member of the Morenci United Methodist Church. She was very active in the church, serving in many capacities. Marty and Marvin were also active in the Haines City (Fla.) United Methodist Church, where they worshiped during fall and winter months. After their retirement from farming and Keller’s John Deere Supply and Service, they relocated to Devils Lake.

Marty is survived by children Karen  Londo and Jan Sprague; five grandchildren, Jeffrey (and Julie) Londo, Marcel (and Brad) Martin, Amanda (and Justin) Stroud, Sarah (and Eric) Salenbien, and Rachel (and Eric) Nichols; two step-grandchildren, Jason (and Kim) Decker and Steve (and Lucinda) Decker; eight great-grandchildren, Judah (Brooklin), Ella, Owen, Cora, Mira, Ryan, Adelaide and Lucas.

She was preceded in death by her husband; son Terry; sons-in-law Douglas Londo and Greg Sprague; and four brothers, Richard, Robert, Ron and Larry.

Visitation is planned from noon until the 1 p.m. service at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci on Saturday, Jan. 28. Interment will be private and burial will be in Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Darrel Lynn Joughin, 56, of Louisville, Ky., died Jan. 21, 2023, at his home. 

Darrel was born Feb. 1, 1966, in Morenci, Mich., the son of Weldon and Carolyn (Rice) Joughin.

He was co-owner of Hays Auction House in Louisville. Darrel was a 1984 graduate of Sand Creek High School and a 1990 graduate of Eastern Michigan University. While attending Eastern, he was a member of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity and had the opportunity to study abroad in England for a semester.

Darrel traveled the world extensively and was able to cross the Iron Curtain and dance in the fields of Austria where the Sound of Music was filmed. He was a jack-of-all-trades in carpentry and built a baby grand piano out of Legos that actually played. He was an avid University of Michigan fan and loved to play cards, especially euchre.

Darrel was known as a very proud and loving son, brother, uncle and great-uncle. He could talk to anyone, was great with kids as he was just a big kid at heart himself. He loved his Great Dane fur babies.

In addition to his parents, Weldon and Carolyn of Adrian, he is survived by his partner Ronnie Clark of Louisville; sister Donna (and Rodger) Kempisty of Columbia, Tenn.; brothers Danny (and Diane Shaffer) of Morenci and James Frederick of Louisville; niece Brittany (and John) Fee; and favorite nephew Brayden Fee.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Emerson and Mary Rice, and paternal grandparents Earl and Irene Joughin.

Visitation is scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m.  Thursday, Jan. 26, at Anderson-Marry Funeral Home, Adrian. Funeral services are planned at 1 p.m. Friday, with additional visitation starting at noon until the time of the service at Anderson-Marry Funeral Home, Adrian, with Rev. William Van Valkenburg officiating. Burial will be held in Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society or to the Great Dane Club of America.

Doyle Lee Beck, 74, of Morenci, Mich., died Jan. 8, 2023, at his home under the loving care of his family.

Doyle was born Feb. 15, 1948, at the family home in Morenci, the son of Quentin and Eva (Mansfield) Beck. He was a lifelong farmer, but had also been employed at Tecumseh Equipment as their service manager, Westfalia Dairy Equipment where he sold and installed dairy equipment, and he did carpentry work with Chris Merillat.

Doyle loved the Lord and was a very active member at the First Baptist Church in Morenci. He served on the church board as a trustee, was a deacon, Sunday school teacher, Youth Group Adventure Club leader, and ran the sound board.

He was a hard worker who loved to create and build things, even building his own house. Doyle was very good with computers, and if there was something that he didn’t know how to do, you better believe he would learn it. He loved snowmobiling, fishing and playing cards, especially Pepper and Canasta.

In addition to his wife, Melanie, Doyle is survived by two daughters, Stacy and Erin Beck, both of Morenci; one brother, Fred (and Caryn) Beck of Ann Arbor, Mich.; and two sisters, Cheryl Beck of Grand Haven, Mich., and Barbara Beck of Adrian, Mich. 

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this time.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee. 

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

Sandra Carol Lamley, 83, of Morenci, Mich., died Jan. 7, 2023, at home, surrounded by family, with the assistance of Hospice of Lenawee.

She was born Sept. 1, 1939, in Detroit, Mich., to Harold and Ann (Mark) Dorchy. She was a 1957 graduate of St. Theresa’s High School in Detroit, Mich.

Sandy married Gregory J. Lamley in Redford Township, Mich., on June 6, 1959. She attended Siena Heights College from 1958 to 1959 and later returned to Siena, graduating in 1973 with a degree in elementary education. Her teaching career at Morenci Area Schools included teaching second grade and coordinating the Chapter I reading program. She was part of a group that first organized fifth grade trips to Camp High Hope. Sandy retired in 1996.

Sandy enjoyed genealogy research, painting and creating in stained glass. She also attended Morenci athletic events throughout her adult life, supporting her family’s teams. Sandy and Greg enjoyed spending winters in Florida for many years.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by daughter Kym Ries of Morenci; sons Scott Lamley of Palm Bay, Fla., and Mark (and Erica) Lamley of Morenci; brother Robert (and Aggie) Dorchy of Novi, Mich.; grandchildren Alison Hanks of Rochester Hills, Mich., Adam Ries of Marysville, Ohio, Stefen (and Jillian) Lamley and Tatiana (and Justin Breen) Castro-Lamley of Springboro, Ohio, Destini Kruse of New Orleans, La., and Ty Kruse of Mount Pleasant, Mich.; great-grandchildren Cole and Callen Lamley, Mia Breen and two due in 2023; niece Amy (and Greg) Darby of Berkey, Mich., and nephew Brad (and Dena) Dorchy of Royal Oak, Mich.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and in-laws Rody and Elsie Lamley.

Cremation will take place and there will be a private gathering of the family. Memorial gifts are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee or the organization of the donor’s choice.

Eagle-Marry Funeral Home of Morenci is handling arrangements.

Barbara E. Johnston, 91, died Jan. 4, 2023, surrounded by her loving family.

Barbara was born May 3, 1931, in Fayette, Ohio, the daughter of James and Cora (Whitmore) D’Lameter. On Sept. 6, 1953, in Fayette, she married the love of her life, Wallace F. Johnston, and he preceded her in death.

Barb was a longtime member of Fayette and Weston United Methodist Churches. She was a faithful follower of Jesus and emulated that in all aspects of her life.

In her earlier days as a homemaker, she and Wallace enjoyed raising their children on their egg ranch. For fun the family all enjoyed spending summers together at Coldwater Lake and winters snowmobiling in Frederic, Mich.

Barb and Wally enjoyed one another’s company while dancing and going to car shows in their 1955 Studebaker President.  

Barb is survived by daughters Kathleen (and Brad) Kebschull, of Wauseon, Ohio; Dawn (and Charlie) Pontious, of Wauseon; and Laurie (the late Kevin Hall) of Morenci, Mich.; and daughter-in-law Cindy Johnston, of Lyons; eight grandchildren, Kristina (and Lewis) Grant, Matthew Johnston, Brent (and Sarah) Kebschull, Marissa (and Aaron) Schmidt, Katherine (and Luke) Hutchinson, Jediah (and Kristin) Hall, Jade Pontious and Cody Pontious; 15 great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, Barb was preceded in death by son Jeffery W. Johnston; siblings Wayne, Grace, Robert, Dorothy, Earl and Marvel.

Cremation has taken place and a memorial service is planned at 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 13, at Fayette United Methodist Church, with visitation beginning at 11 a.m. A luncheon will follow the memorial service at the Morenci Eagles. Inurnment will be Saturday, Jan. 14, at 11 a.m., in Butler Cemetery in Wauseon. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Heart Association, cancer research or diabetes research. 

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

Mary Lampe, 90, of Zeeland, Mich., died Dec. 30, 2022.

Mary was born May 13, 1932, in Jenkins, Ky. She married Howard McCann and eventually settled in Saline, Mich., where they raised their family. Mary worked in the medical records field in different hospitals. Mary met Bill Lampe in 1994 and they married later that year. 

Mary and Bill spent most of their years together in the community of Morenci, Mich., where Mary was involved in the Eastern Star. She loved gardening and enjoyed sewing to make gifts for loved ones and people in need. Less than two years ago, she and Bill moved to Zeeland to be closer to their families.

In addition to her husband, Mary is survived by children Joseph and Nancy McCann, Barbara McCann and Margie Cashman; grandchildren Laura and William Sullivan and Rosie Cashman-McCann; great-grandchildren Keagan and Annabelle Sullivan; stepsons Brad Lampe and Tim Lampe; and sister Elizabeth Hall.

Mary was preceded in death by her first husband Howard McCann in 1988.

A private service will be held.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the World Wildlife Fund.

Judith Louise Derflinger, 67, of Fayette, Ohio, died Dec. 25, 2022, at Ayden Healthcare.

Judy was born March 21, 1955, in Morenci, Mich., the daughter of Leslie and Luella (Raker) Christenson. She was a graduate of Morenci Area High School. On Dec. 23, 1982, in Phoenix, Ariz., she married Kenneth Derflinger, and he survives. She had been employed at Circle K until her retirement in 2017. Judy was a member of National Threshers Women, and a former member of the Church of Christ in Phoenix. She loved crocheting, knitting and genealogy.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by daughters Amanda Huisjen and Angela “Angel” Carter and brother Ted Christenson.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Tom Christenson, and her grandparents.

Services for Judy are pending.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Derflinger Family for future designation.

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

Mary Jane Storehalder, 91, of Lyons, Ohio, died Dec. 21, 2022.

She was born May 9, 1931, in Swanton, Ohio, to Orrin and Hilda (Halderman) Robinson. Mary Jane met the love of her life, Donald J. Storehalder, and they married on Feb. 16, 1950, in Swanton. He preceded her in death on Oct. 22, 2013. 

Mary Jane worked hard all her life helping her husband manage the farm. In her later years she enjoyed gardening, sewing and fishing. Mary Jane was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Parish in Assumption, Ohio, and the Rosary and Altar Society. 

Mary Jane was as strong as she was compassionate. She was known to be forgiving and open hearted. Mary Jane was beautiful inside and out. She gave everything she had to help those around her.

Mary Jane is survived by children Richard Storehalder,  Nancy (and Steve) Smith and Barbara Gerken; 11 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; sister Roberta (and Ronald) Burke; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Donald; her parents; sons Roger Storehalder, Robert Storehalder and William “Willie” Storehalder; daughters-in-law Anna Storehalder and Diane Storehalder; granddaughter Amanda Storehalder; sister Ida Selders and brother Jim Robinson.

Visitation is planned from 9 to 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 30, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Assumption where a Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11, with Fr. Michael Dandurand presiding. Interment will Follow at Our Lady of Fatima Cemetery in Lyons.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Lyons Royalton Fire Dept., 409  E. Morenci St., Lyons, OH 43533.

Margie Ann Jennifer Ingall, 79, of Bryan, Ohio, formerly of Lyons, Ohio, died Dec. 15, 2022, at Bryan Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center where she was a resident for many years.

Margie was born Feb. 22, 1943, in Adrian, Mich., to Wilford Clark and Doris Irene (Dunbar) Ingall. Margie worked for many years as a secretary for her grandfather’s and father’s business, Dunbar-Ingall Chevrolet in Lyons. Margie was a member of Lyons Christian Church where she served as an organist and a Bible School teacher for many years. She enjoyed playing Bingo and won many prizes at the nursing center.

She is survived by her sister Jayne (and Jim) Steffel of Bryan; nieces and nephew Joanna Steffel of Defiance, Jody (and Billy) Garris of Holgate, Ohio, Jennifer Shoults of Westerville, Ohio, Troy Gleason of Chicago, Ill., Victoria Long of Adrian, and Alexia Long of Defiance; great-nieces and great-nephew Sam Shoults and Addie Shoults, Gracie Gleason and Olivia Gleason.

Margie was preceded in death by her parents and sister Annette Ingall Gleason.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 4 p.m. and 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21, at Grisier Funeral Home, Stryker, Ohio. Funeral service will follow the visitation at 7 p.m. Wednesday in the funeral home. Celebrant Adam Grisier will officiate. Family and friends will gather 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 22, at Lyons Cemetery for a graveside service and interment.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Central Mennonite Church, Archbold, Ohio.

Funeral arrangements were handled by Grisier Funeral Home, Stryker.

Kymberly Mae (Garcia) Baker, 52, of Stryker, Ohio, died unexpectedly Dec. 13, 2022, at her home

Kym was born Sept. 8, 1970, in Adrian, Mich., the daughter of Victor and Deborah (Masters) Garcia. Kym was a graduate of Pettisville High School and received a Bachelor of Business degree from the University of Findlay. On May 12, 1994, in Bryan, Ohio, she married Daniel Baker, and he survives.

Kym was employed with Powers and Sons as their HR manager and enjoyed collecting antiques. She will be remembered for her goofy personality and selfless nature. She always took time to put others first, especially her family and fur babies.

 Surviving Kym is her husband Dan; son Ethan (and Nancy Spangler) Baker; brothers Victor (and Julie) Garcia and Steven (and Joyce) Garcia; sisters Krys (and John) Griffiths, Janie (and Chris) Bailey, and Maegen (and Jay) Sheldon; mother-in-law Marsha Baker; brother-in-law Dave Baker; and sister-in-law Debbie (and Greg) Taylor.

She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter Ashtyn Baker; and father-in-law Ron Baker.

 Funeral services are planned at 5 p.m. Monday, Dec.19, with visitation beginning at noon until the time of the service at First Baptist Church in Bryan, Ohio, with Pastor John MacFarlane officiating. A private burial will be held in Pleasant View Union Cemetery, Fayette.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Baker Family for future designation. 

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

Elizabeth Ann “Sis” Rowland, 96, lifelong resident of Lyons, Ohio, died Dec. 10, 2022.

Sis was born Aug. 28, 1926, in Lyons to Harry and Beulah (Fetterman) Tredway. She graduated from Lyons High School in 1944 and attended medical business school in Elkhart, Ind. She was hired as a medical transcriptionist for the Toledo Hospital and later worked for a year as a teacher at Lyons School.

Her dream job, however, was working for the bank in Lyons—the bank her grandfather assisted in forming. Banking was her life. Over 45 years, she worked her way up the ranks before retiring as branch manager and assistant vice president.

Sis was married Dec. 23, 1947, to Elvin Rowland of Lyons. He preceded her in death in 1992.