Sandra Ilene Vanderpool, 78, of Morenci, Mich., died July 18, 2026, at Ayden Healthcare of Wauseon, Ohio.

She was born Oct. 29, 1947, in Hudson, Mich., to Henry and Phyllis (Tuttle) Derby. 

Sandy is remembered as a hard worker who loved the Lord. For many years she helped her father with coaching various local teams, and she later coached youth softball in Morenci. Sandra enjoyed gardening, line dancing, riding motorcycles and being outdoors.  

Sandra is survived by her son Todd (and Colleen) Vanderpool of Morenci; daughters April (and Jeff) Jarrell of Archbold, Ohio, and Patricia (and Aaron) Brink of Wauseon; sister Melinda Delmonico of Morenci; seven grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Troy Vanderpool; and a brother, Gary Derby.

Visitation is planned from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, July 24, at Marry Funeral Home in Morenci, with the funeral service beginning at 1 p.m. Pastor Darren Lemmon will officiate and burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.

Patricia Ann “Teresa” Powers, 63, of Montpelier, Ohio, formerly of Fayette, Ohio, and Unicoi, Tenn., died suddenly July 14, 2026, at Parkview Montpelier Hospital.

Born Dec. 6, 1962, in Unicoi, she was the youngest of nine children from the union of Hank and Pete (Jackson) Powers.

Teresa was raised in Unicoi and moved to Northwest Ohio in 1987, where she lived the remainder of her life. She was brought up in the Unicoi Church of God where she remained a lifelong member. 

Teresa worked as an operator at Siemens in Tennessee and at various local factories in Ohio, most recently at 20/20 Custom Molded Plastics in Montpelier prior to her medical disability. She was an avid NASCAR fan, following Bill Elliott and Jeff Gordon through the years. She also enjoyed riding her motorcycle and moped, and she loved spoiling her numerous Jack Russell terriers that were adopted into her family over the years. She was a proud supporter of President Donald J. Trump.

Teresa is remembered as a great mother who cared deeply for her family. She was fun-loving and full of life. Her vibrant personality made it a joy to be around her.

Surviving is son David (and Jessica) Powers of Waldron, Mich.; daughter Trista (and Jason) Simon of Erwin, Tenn.; siblings Barb Anderson of Fayette, Julie White of Unicoi, David Alan (and Carolyn) Powers of Unicoi, Robin (and Ronnie) Shelton of Unicoi, and Darlene (and Steve) Myers of Waldron; grandchildren Austin, Britney, Michael and Charisma; great-grandson Whalon; and numerous nieces and nephews and extended family members.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother in adolescence, Larry; sisters Peggy and Linda; and brothers-in-law Hobert White and Mike Anderson.

Services will be private and a celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date. Private family interment will take place in Unicoi.

Memorial donations are suggested to the family to aid with final expenses. 

Arrangements were made with the guidance of the Marry Funeral Home, Fayette.

Kenneth “Kenny” R. Drohan, 87, of Fayette, Ohio, died June 23, 2026, at Evergreen Health Care, surrounded by his loving family.

Kenneth was born Sept. 12, 1938, in Bloomington, Ill., to Andrew and Thelma (Ooley) Drohan.

On April 5, 1986, Kenneth married the love of his life, Sandra Pitts, at the Faith United Methodist Church in Bryan, Ohio, and they spent 37 wonderful years together before her passing in 2023. 

Kenny worked for many years at TRW in Fayette until his retirement in 2000. He enjoyed traveling with Sandra and spending time with family and many friends. He had a passion for cars and a special affection for dogs, particularly his beloved dog Bandit. He also enjoyed mowing yards and even mowed the Fayette cemetery for a time.

Kenneth is survived by sister Marie (and Ken) Moore of Hicksville, Ohio; sister-in-law Verlene Drohan of Montpelier, Ohio; and brothers-in-law Raymond (and Ila) Pitts and Kevin (and Deann) Pitts.

In addition to his wife, Sandra, Kenneth is preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Paul Drohan.

Visitation is planned from 10 a.m. until noon July 8, 2026, at the Marry Funeral Home – Fayette with a memorial service beginning at noon. Kenneth will be laid to rest next to Sandra at Pleasant View Union Cemetery, Fayette, following the service.

Memorial contributions are suggested to a charity of the donor's choosing for cancer research.

Ronald Lewis Merillat, 80, of Hudson, Mich., died peacefully June 22, 2026.

Born July 6, 1945, in Hudson to Donald and Emma Merillat, Ronald remained deeply rooted in the community that shaped his life and, in turn, was shaped by his lifelong service. He often displayed in his home office the beloved poem “The Road Not Taken,” a reflection of the way he lived his life—choosing a path of purpose, service and quiet leadership, one that “has made all the difference.”

A devoted member of Fayette Christian Church-Disciples of Christ, Ronald’s faith was a guiding force in both his personal and professional life. He faithfully served the church as an elder, Sunday School teacher, board president, and Vacation Bible School leader.

He was also a firm believer in the power of education and lifelong learning, a value reflected in his own academic journey. After graduating from Morenci High School in 1963, he earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Michigan State University, a second master’s degree from Florida State University, and later returned to Michigan State to complete his education specialist degree.

Ronald dedicated his career to education, serving the schools and families of Dansville, Fayette, Blissfield, Morenci and Waldron. Over the years, he touched countless lives as a teacher, principal and superintendent. He was more than an educator—he was a mentor, leader, and steady presence for students, parents and colleagues alike. His commitment extended beyond the classroom, as he built lasting relationships with the families he served, always striving to support and strengthen the communities he cared so deeply about. His life’s work reflected a belief that the path we choose is defined by how we serve others along the way.

On Sept. 11, 1965, Ronald married Susan McCaskey, and together they shared more than 60 wonderful years of marriage, building a life centered on love, family and service. He found great joy in farming alongside his father, Donald, and his brother, Jack, as well as in spending cherished time with his family.

Ronald is survived by his loving wife, Susan; son Scott (and Raquel) Merillat; daughters Kimberly (and Robert) Mossing and Jennifer (and John) Gould; eight grandchildren, Torin (and Morgan Lolley) Merillat, Kiegan (and Bradey Osborn) Merillat, Daelyn (and Luke) Grieder, Seth and Emma Mossing, and Taylor, Carolyn, and Evan Gould; four great-grandchildren, Oakley and Clare Merillat, and Ilah and Graham Grieder; sister Mary (and Dennis) Austin; sisters-in-law Carol and Rosie Merillat; brothers- and sisters-in-law Bill (and Joyce) McCaskey, Duane (and Arlene) McCaskey, Rita (and Dick) Borton, Annabelle Peterson, Peggy (and Larry) Johnson, Vickie McCaskey, Karen (and Robert) Beck, and Larry McCaskey.

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents; step-mother Mary Merillat; in-laws Harley and Marie McCaskey; brothers Donald and Jack Merillat; and brothers-in-law Richard (and Mary Ellen) McCaskey, Robert (and Luella) McCaskey, and Jim McCaskey.

His legacy lives on in the many lives he influenced, the communities he strengthened, and the family he loved so dearly. Like the road he chose in life, his path will continue to guide and inspire those who follow.

Funeral services were June 26 at Fayette Christian Church-Disciples of Christ, with Pastor Mark Harris officiating. Burial followed next to his farm in Lime Creek Cemetery, Medina Township.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Fayette Christian Church-Disciples of Christ or the Morenci Education Foundation.

Arrangements were made with Marry Funeral Home, Morenci.

Linda Marie Rupp, 73, died peacefully June 21, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Linda was born June 2, 1953. A lifelong member of the Evergreen community, she graduated from Evergreen High School and continued her education at Bowling Green State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in education. She dedicated 35 years to teaching elementary students at Evergreen Local Schools, where she touched the lives of countless children and families throughout her career.

Linda was also a lifelong member of Lyons Christian Church, where her faith was an important part of her life and where she formed many lasting friendships over the years.

Above all else, Linda cherished her family. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend whose greatest joy came from spending time with her children and grandchildren. Whether attending sporting events, celebrating milestones, or simply enjoying a visit, she treasured every moment shared with her family.

Linda enjoyed gathering with her longtime teacher friends and treasured the friendships she developed over a lifetime in education. She was known for making others feel special through her thoughtful handwritten birthday cards, which many looked forward to receiving each year. Family and friends will also fondly remember her famous potato salad and scotcheroos, staples at countless family gatherings and celebrations.

Linda’s kindness, generosity, strong faith, and unwavering love for her family will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew her.

Linda is survived by four sons John (and Jaime) Rupp, Andy (and Allison) Rupp, Mark (and Jeremy) Rupp, and Matt (and Jenny) Rupp; grandchildren Noah, Braelyn, Lila, Carly, Grayson, Mason and Skylar; siblings Betty (and Max) Stough, Kathy (and Dick) Snyder, Nancy (and Les) Duke, Tom (and Lori) Himelhan, and Lori (and Steve) Barnett, along with many nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Linda was preceded in death by her husband, Edward D. Rupp, and her parents, Frank and Rose Marie Himelhan.

Visitation is planned from 3 to 7 p.m. Monday, June 29, at Lyons Christian Church Fellowship Hall. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 30, at  at Lyons Christian Church, with Pastor Heather Schimmel officiating. Interment will follow at Lyons Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Evergreen Elementary Library in Linda’s memory.

Arrangements were made with Weigel Funeral Homes.

Timothy Allen Sands, 64, of Harrison, Mich., formerly of Morenci, died June 9, 2026, at MyMichigan Medical Center in Midland, Mich.

Tim was born Sept. 14, 1961, in Wauseon, Ohio, to Charles and Wilma (Henson) Sands.

Tim proudly served his country as a member of the United States Marine Corps for 12 years. His working career was spent as a corrections officer for the Michigan Department of Corrections. He served his hometown Morenci community over the years in positions of reserved police officer, firefighter and EMT. Tim took special interest in memberships of the American Legion and the Disabled American Veterans organization. He was also a lifetime member of the United States Military Vets Motorcycle Club (USMVMC).

Tim is survived by his children Christopher (and Brittany) Sands of Morenci, Kendra Sands of Harrison, and Cheyenne (and Skyler) Sands of Bryan, Ohio; five grandchildren, Lexus, Brayan, Oakley, Maverick and Avery; and sisters Julie (and Mark) Bachman of Morenci, Patricia Collar of Morenci, Linda (and Dave) Smith of Englewood, Fla., Susan (and Bill) Zook of Adrian, Mich., and Judy (and Marty) Sunday of Morenci.

In addition to his parents, Tim was preceded in his death by his sister Ardyth Sands.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 18, at Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, June 19, at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci, with military rites performed by the Morenci American Legion Post 368.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Disabled American Veterans of Jackson.

Timothy Allen Sands, 64, of Harrison, Mich., formerly of Morenci, died June 9, 2026, at MyMichigan Medical Center in Midland, Mich.

Tim was born Sept. 14, 1961, in Wauseon, Ohio, to Charles and Wilma (Henson) Sands.

Tim proudly served his country as a member of the United States Marine Corps for 12 years. His working career was spent as a corrections officer for the Michigan Department of Corrections. He served his hometown Morenci community over the years in positions of reserved police officer, firefighter and EMT. Tim took special interest in memberships of the American Legion and the Disabled American Veterans organization. He was also a lifetime member of the United States Military Vets Motorcycle Club (USMVMC).

Tim is survived by his children Christopher (and Brittany) Sands of Morenci, Kendra Sands of Harrison, and Cheyenne (and Skyler) Sands of Bryan, Ohio; five grandchildren, Lexus, Brayan, Oakley, Maverick and Avery; and sisters Julie (and Mark) Bachman of Morenci, Patricia Collar of Morenci, Linda (and Dave) Smith of Englewood, Fla., Susan (and Bill) Zook of Adrian, Mich., and Judy (and Marty) Sunday of Morenci.

In addition to his parents, Tim was preceded in his death by his sister Ardyth Sands.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 18, at Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, June 19, at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci, with military rites performed by the Morenci American Legion Post 368.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Disabled American Veterans of Jackson.

Lucy Ann White Ackland, 83, died June 6, 2026, while under Hospice care in Boyne City, Mich.

She was the eldest great-grandchild of W. H. White, the eldest grandchild of Lysle H. White, and the eldest child of Marjorie Louise White Ackland and Arthur Dicran Ackland.

She was born Sept. 15, 1942, in Little Traverse Hospital in Petoskey, Mich. 

She graduated valedictorian of Morenci Area High School class of 1960, after which she spent three years at Albion College where she was a fourth generation member of Delta Gamma sorority. She completed two years at Detroit School of Law, received a B.A. from Wayne State University and an M.A. in special education from the University of Miami. 

While teaching for 28 years in Miami-Dade Public Schools, she founded the Girls Clubs of Greater Miami and served on the City of Miami’s Commission on the Status of Women. Also, during those years, she was a member of Coconut Grove Sailing Club and All Peoples Reform Synagogue. 

She retired to her mother’s home town, Boyne City, in 1998 where she lived a quiet life with her books, her Shetland Sheepdogs and a few good friends. She will be buried in the White family plot in Boyne City. 

She was preceded in death by her parents as well as her sister Amy Louise Ackland. She is survived by sister Pam (and Vance) Lockeby of Bitely, Mich.; brother Robert (and Sandra) Ackland of Gainesville, Ga.; niece Miriam Fant of Rockford, Mich.; nephews Seth Wenger of Grand Rapids, Mich., and John Ackland of Gainesville, Ga., as well as many grandnieces and nephews along with many dear friends. 

Final funeral arrangements are still being finalized.

Clyde James Brasher, DDS, died May 23, 2026, surrounded by his family under the care of Hospice of Lenawee.

He was born Sept. 17, 1927, to Clyde L. and Dorothy J. Brasher in Dearborn, Mich. The family moved to a farm near Hudson, Mich., where Clyde attended  Bean Patch Country School, then graduated from Gorham Fayette High School.

For 18 months, he served in the U.S. Army, with five of those months in Korea. Using his GI education grant, he attended Adrian College, Albion College, and the University of Michigan Dental School, graduating in 1954.

On June 18, 1954, he married Martha Wessel at Bethlehem Church, Ann Arbor, Mich. They moved to Morenci, Mich.. and opened a dental practice which they operated for 38 years. While in Morenci, he attended Morenci Congregational Church and was a member of the Kiwanis Club of Morenci. Dr. Brasher appeared in a couple of Womanless Weddings and participated in many other community activities.

At the age of 49, he started to downhill ski and joined the Toledo Ski Club. He continued to ski up to the age of 91. In retirement, he moved to Devils Lake and belonged to the Devils Lake Yacht Club. Clyde enjoyed sailing, swimming, golfing, woodworking, reading, writing poetry and playing euchre.

Dr. Brasher is survived by his wife of 71 years, Martha; daughters Joy Brasher, Jane (and Matt) Garrow, and Joan Brasher; granddaughter Claire Swirtz;  sister Bonnie Peterson; sister-in-law Mary Brasher; brother-in-law Louis (and Yetive) Wessel; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Arnold Brasher; brothers-in-law Wayne Peterson and Clare Wessel; and sister-in-law Nadene (and Jay) Burress.

Visitation is planned from 10 a.m. until noon, the time of service, at Marry Funeral Home, Morenci, on Monday, June 8.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Rex Riley Scholarship Fund c/o Morenci Kiwanis Club, the University of Michigan Dental School, or the donor’s choice.

Gene Graf, 86, of Fayette, Ohio, died at his home May 24, 2026.

He was born Jan. 12, 1940, in Franklin Township, Fulton County, Ohio, to the late Joy Sam Graf and Joyce Lena Winzeler Graf.

Gene graduated from Archbold High School in 1957. Following graduation, he faithfully served his country in the United States Army from 1957 to 1959 and was assigned to the 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Benning, Georgia. After completing his military service, Gene returned home to farm, dedicating his life to the land and to the family home one mile west of Zone, Ohio, where he lived for the remainder of his life.

On Aug. 3, 1963, Gene married the love of his life, Marlene Mae Roth. Together they shared 63 years of marriage marked by faith, family, hard work, and devotion to one another. Gene especially treasured traveling with Marlene and the many memories they created together through the years.

Gene gave his life to Christ at an early age and faithfully followed and served Him throughout his entire life. His faith was the foundation of who he was and continued to deepen until his final day. He was a lifelong member of Archbold Evangelical Church and found great joy in supporting ministries that shared the love of Jesus Christ. For more than 20 years, Gene and Marlene were actively involved in the church plant and ministry of Sonlight Community Church in Angola, Ind., where they faithfully invested in relationships, encouraged others in their walk with Christ, and served alongside many dear friends.

Gene and Marlene also shared a deep passion for investing in the lives of children through Kids Campus, the preschool ministry that began through Marlene’s vision and dreams. Gene faithfully worked behind the scenes to help make those dreams a reality, using his gifts, hard work, and servant’s heart to support the ministry in countless ways. Many children lovingly knew him as “Farmer Gene,” and his quiet presence, kindness, and willingness to serve became a meaningful part of the lives of many families through the years.

Gene was known by many as a prayer warrior. He faithfully prayed daily for family, friends, missionaries, churches, and countless others, often keeping pages of names and prayer requests close at hand. Those who knew Gene experienced his quiet generosity, unwavering faith, servant’s heart, humility, steady presence, and deep love for his family. He was deeply proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and found great joy in watching his family grow through the generations. His life was marked by simplicity, faithfulness, kindness and prayer.

In addition to his wife, Marlene, Gene is survived by children Lisa (and John) Aeschliman of Wauseon, Ohio, Lynne (and Wes) Hoffmire of Napoleon, Ohio, and Fred (and Becca) Graf of Fort Wayne, Ind.; eight grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and all of his siblings.

Visitation is planned from 3 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 27, at Archbold Evangelical Church. On Thursday, May 28, a graveside service will begin at 10 a.m. in Pettisville Cemetery, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11 a.m. at Archbold Evangelical Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to “Miracle Camp and Retreat Center” or “Home of Hope Orphanage and Christian School of Hope” (c/o Faith in Communities Africa, PO Box 53153, Pettisville, Ohio 43553).

The Grisier Funeral Home of Archbold handled arrangements.

Philip J. Niner, 97, of Coldwater,  Mich., formerly of Hudson, Morenci and Adrian, died May 21, 2026, at Lakehouse Assisted Living in Coldwater.

He was born May 1, 1929, in Carleton,  Mich., the son of Frank and Irene (Grodi) Niner.

Philip proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War and earned a Purple Heart. He was known as a hard worker. Philip left school to run the family farm as a teenager and continued farming most of his life. He also worked at Kewaunee in Adrian for 34 years.

He was a member of DAV, Hudson American Legion Post and then the Morenci American Legion. He enjoyed woodworking, especially making furniture.

Philip is survived by two daughters, Terian (and Roy) Hassenzahl and Marian (and Ethan) Xaiver; grandsons Craig and Jeremy (and Amy) Hassenzahl; great-grandchildren Jeremy, Jr., and Hunter; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and 10 brothers and sisters.

Funeral services will begin at noon  Friday, May 29, at Brown-Van Hemert Funeral Home, Hudson, with Pastor Jamie Driskill officiating. Visitation is planned from 11 a.m. until time of service. Burial is scheduled at 11:30 a.m. Monday, June 1, at Fort Custer National Cemetery, Augusta, Mich.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Morenci American Legion.

Shelby Nicole Vanderpool, 41, died May 21, 2026, at her home after a long battle with cancer.

Shelby was born May 13, 1985, in Adrian, Mich., to Lonnie “Barney” Vanderpool and Julie (Keefer) Rodgers. Shelby worked for Hylex, in Hamilton, Ind.

Shelby was a beloved mother to her son, Adam. She enjoyed shopping and photography. She was a member of the Gentle Giants 4-H group in her youth, where she gained her love of animals. Shelby also enjoyed going with Adam and Barney to his motorcycle races and served as his pit crew.

Shelby is survived by her parents Lonnie “Barney” Vanderpool and Julie (Richard) Rodgers; her son Adam Wicker; stepson Kaden Mosher; brother Joseph (and Allicia) Vanderpool; grandmothers Shirley Vanderpool and Beverly Keefer; and boyfriend Corey Oberlin.

Shelby was preceded in death by her grandfathers Elwood Vanderpool and Denver Keefer.

Visitation is planned from noon to 3 p.m. Thursday, May 28, at Marry Funeral Home – Morenci. A private burial will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested to her family to support Adam’s future.

Larry W. Kast, 87, of Morenci, Mich., died May 22, 2026, at his home. He was born in Wauseon, Ohio, the son of George A. and Margery B. (Lane) Kast.  

Larry graduated from Chesterfield High School in Chesterfield, Ohio. He joined the U.S. Army, and when he returned from the service he worked for several local factories as a tool and die maker. Larry married the love of his life, Karen L. Elarton, on July 27, 1983, in Morenci. This summer would have been their 43rd wedding anniversary. 

Larry was an avid collector of John Deere items and clocks. He was a huge fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes and loved going to estate sales and garage sales. Larry was a member of the First Congregational Church in Morenci and the Morenci American Legion.

Larry is survived by his wife, Karen; their children Tracy Kast, Patrick (and Alyssa) Kast, Angela (and Steve) Case, Jared (and Heather) Fee, Melissa (and Adam) McLaughlin and Justin (and Cassie) Fee; 24 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; several brothers and sisters; numerous nieces, nephews and other extended family members.

He was preceded in death by children Lindsay Kast, Ryan Kast and Rebecca Hernandez, and grandson Daniel Valdez, and his parents.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will begin at 1 p.m. Tuesday, May 26, at First Congregational Church, Morenci, with Pastor Greg Morrison officiating. Visitation is planned from 11 a.m. until time of service at the church. Private interment will be made at a later date in Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Lenawee County Humane Society.

Arrangements were made with Marry Funeral Home, Morenci.

Dick B. Rhoads, 96, formerly of Waldron, died May 6, 2026, at the Hillsdale Medical Care Facility where he has resided for several years.

Born Nov. 9, 1929, in Hudson Township, Dick was the son of John and Myrtle (Shaffer) Rhoads.

Dick lived his formative years in Hudson where he graduated from high school with the Class of 1947. On March 15, 1948, in Angola, Ind., he married the love of his life, the former Aldora Keefer. Together, they raised a family of five children and were blessed with 71 years of love and memories of watching their family grow until her death April 18, 2019.   

Dick selflessly enlisted as a member of the United States Army, serving in the National Guard during the Korean Conflict. Returning to civilian life, Dick worked for the grocery store that Aldora’s parents started in Morenci, Keefer’s Market, which he later owned. In retirement he enjoyed working in historical reenactment at Sauder Village in Archbold, Ohio. He was also active with the Morenci Senior Center, and was a faithful member of Medina Federated Church. In his spare time, Dick enjoyed camping, painting, and playing cards and games with friends and family.

Surviving are five children, Bonnie (and Ed) Kammeyer of Huachuca City, Ariz., Christine (and Andy) Jones of Haines City, Fla., Lisa (and Jim) Walker of Haines City, Fla., Mary DeGroff of Carefree, Ariz., and David (and Donna) Rhoads of Mechanicsburg, Ohio; 16 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; and eight great-great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents and wife, Dick was preceded in death by his siblings Ernest, Virginia, Emanuel, Linden, Cora and Jack; and two granddaughters, Jennifer L. Allion and Ava Marie DeGroff.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 14, at Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Funeral services will begin 11 a.m. Friday, May 15, at the funeral home, with Pastor Darren Lemmon officiating. Cremation will follow the service and he will be privately inurned next to his wife at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Medina Federated Church.

Stanley Lee Taulbee, 65, of Fayette, Ohio, formerly of Waldron, Mich., died May 5, 2026, at Fountain Park Assisted Living in Bryan, Ohio, where he had resided since 2022.

He was born Dec. 31, 1960, in Morgan County, Kentucky, to Bradford Taulbee and the former Mildred Harris.

Stan moved to Fayette with his mother in 1962 and graduated from Gorham-Fayette High School. Following graduation, he selflessly enlisted to serve his country as a member of the United States Army. He returned to civilian life as a welder, working for Bil Jax, Inc., in Archbold, Ohio, for more than 30 years.

Known as a free-spirit and life of the party, Stan notably was born on New Year’s Eve and fittingly left his world on Cinco de Mayo. He loved to play bass on his guitar and perform with his band. He also enjoyed working on cars, fishing and utilizing his carpentry skills.

Stan is survived by daughter Melissa Valentine of Archbold; sister Sandra Robinson (and Eric Saaf) of Fayette; brother Tony Robinson of Fayette; and three grandchildren, Leora, Chase and Corbin Valentine.

Stanley was preceded in his death by his parents.

Cremation will take place, and details regarding a public celebration of life will  be announced later.

Memorial donations are suggested to the family to defray final expenses, and can be paid directly toward expenses through Stanley’s Tribute Fund on the funeral home website. 

Arrangements were made with Marry Funeral Home, Fayette.

Betty Jean Hall, 95, of Morenci, Mich., died April 27, 2026, surrounded by loved ones while under the care of Hospice of Lenawee.

She was born May 10, 1930, in Metamora, Ohio, the third of 10 children of the late Earl and Dora (Schafer) Simpkins. 

Betty married Ray “Tut” Hall on March 24, 1951, in Morenci. Together, they raised a family of four children. He preceded her in death on Feb. 20, 2010.

Betty was a 1948 graduate of Sand Creek High School. In her early life she worked at a bakery, factory, Bancroft Cleaners, and as a telephone operator for Sand Creek Telephone Company. Most of her career was spent serving as a florist, and she proudly co-owned the Morenci Flower Shop for many years prior to her retirement in 1992.

Having a deep appreciation for the outdoors, Betty enjoyed gardening, fishing, and camping trips with her children over the years. She also enjoyed sewing, cooking and baking—especially for the countless holidays, birthdays, and various family gatherings that she graciously hosted at her home.

Betty always anticipated various day-trips with her sisters, especially to Shipshewana, Ind., and being a grandmother and great-grandmother brought her the most joy. She is fondly remembered for her strong-willed and loving ways, her wonderful sense of humor, and her quick-wit.

Betty is survived by children Terry Hall (and Cathy Powell) of Morenci, Tracy (and Maliea) Hall of Sand Creek and Jeanne Dietrich of Morenci; daughter-in-law Laurie Hall of Morenci; sisters Beverly Cowell of Akron, Ind., and Sharon Schmidt of Morenci; sisters-in-law Nancy Simpkins, Bea Tredway and Celeta Simpkins; grandchildren Lenna McCaskey (and Mike Dowling), Brock (and Kate) Dietrich, and Jediah (and Kristin) Hall; great-grandchildren Beckett McCaskey, Mia Dietrich, Ella Dietrich, Ezri Hall, Blake Hall and Navy Hall; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Betty was preceded in her death by a son, Kevin Hall; brothers Arnold Simpkins, Ronald “Popeye” Simpkins, Maurice “John” Simpkins, and Lanny “Butch” Simpkins; and  sisters, Wanda Anderson, Shirley Speelman and Barbara Baker.

Visitation is planned from 3 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 29, at Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Funeral services will begin at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 30, at the funeral home, officiated by Rev. William VanValkenburg. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee.

Jeanine A (Marlatt) Smith, 79, formerly of Kokomo, Ind, died April 17, 2026, in Westfield, Ind.

She was born July 28, 1946, to James and Kathryn (Sampson) Marlatt in Hudson, Mich., and was the oldest of their three children. She married Gary H. Smith in 1965; he preceded her in death in 1998.

Jeanine was a 1964 graduate of Morenci Area High School (Mich.) and Siena Heights College in 1970. She earned a master’s degree from Purdue University. She was a farmer’s wife, a mother to two sons, and a teacher/guidance counselor at the middle school, high school and college levels over the course of her career. She spent the final 20 years of her career at Kokomo School Corporation.

After 1979, she also assisted her husband in his ministry work, which included missionary experience in Scotland and the Americas. She enjoyed writing (and teaching writing), reading, exercising, football and trivia games, and spending time with her family. She was an active member of Bible Baptist Church in Kokomo, where she was involved in women’s ministry and jail ministries.

Jeanine is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law Thad and Tanya Smith of Thorntown, Ind., and Brady and Julie Smith of Westfield, Ind.; three grandchildren, Kayla, Chase and Madelyn; sister Jerolyn Towne and brother Michael Marlatt and their families.

Memorial donations are suggested to the Kokomo Public Schools Education Foundation, Anchor of Hope Hospice in Indianapolis, or Bible Baptist Church in Kokomo.

A Celebration of Life Service will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, May 15, at Flanner Buchanan Hamilton Memorial Park – Prairie Waters (4180 Westfield Rd. Westfield, IN 46062). All are invited to join the family in food and fellowship immediately following services, from noon until 2 p.m.

Classie Marie Goldsmith of Lyons, Ohio, died April 18, 2026, at the age of 94. 

Classie was the only child born to Buford T. and Sarah Hannah (Davis) Luttrell in Knoxville, Tenn., on June 10, 1931. 

Classie met her husband, Lyle, in 1952  and they were united in marriage later that year on December 1st. Together they built a loving family and were blessed with three children, all of whom survive her: Alan (and Dana) Goldsmith of  Ann Arbor, Mich., Teresa (and Denny) Pate of Mikado, Mich., and Rex Goldsmith of Lyons. Over the years, she was further blessed with four grandchildren, Sabrina (and Greg) Ball, Davina (and Raymond) Gardner, Brian McCowan, and Sara Goldsmith; eight great-grandchildren; and seventeen great-great-grandchildren. 

In addition to being a dedicated and loving mother, grandmother, and “Granny,” Classie was known as a modest woman who found joy in life’s simple pleasures—a car ride on a summer day to see the flowers in bloom, an unexpected guest to sit and visit with, or a simple phone call. Even a stranger helping her reach an item on a grocery store shelf meant more to her than they would ever know, often saying, “They don’t even know me, and they helped me!” Those small acts of kindness meant so much to her.

She treasured family gatherings when everyone could be together, as well as the moments when her great-grandchildren stopped by with their little ones, even if just for a short visit. She never wanted anyone to fuss over her, always saying there was someone else who needed it more.

Throughout her life, she held an unwavering faith in God, which she shared with all who knew her. Classie loved her church family at Zion Church of Wauseon.

Classie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Lyle; and her granddaughter, Mandy McCowan. 

Visitation will begin at noon Thursday, April 23, at Marry Funeral Home in Morenci until the funeral service at 1 p.m. Pastor Eli Koehler will officiate and burial will follow in Ridgeville Cemetery in Fairfield Township, Mich.

Memorial donations are suggested to Zion Church of Wauseon or CHP Defiance Inpatient Hospice Center.

Gerald Lynn Perdue, 90, formerly of Fayette, Ohio, died April 15, 2026, in Lake Mary, Fla.

Born Feb. 12, 1936, in Albion, Mich., he was the son of Jay and Donna (Coleman) Perdue.

He married the love of his life, the former Kathleen Ford, in October of 1969, in Juneau, Alaska. They were blessed with more than 52 wonderful years together prior to her passing on March 4, 2022.

Gerald first worked as a railroad engineer in Montpelier, Ohio. He then moved to Alaska, where he worked for a sawmill in Wrangell. The Alaskan culture taught Gerald to live simply, more as a means for survival than an accumulation of material assets—humble values that he sustained throughout the remainder of his life. Settling in Fayette in the late 1970s, he worked as a machinist until his formal retirement in 1998. 

Gerald was a lover of nature and had a special admiration for Harrison Lake State Park where he enjoyed camping, picnic lunches, nature walks, and afternoon drives. He also enjoyed trips to northern Michigan, especially visits to the Soo Locks. Perhaps Gerald’s favorite pastime was eating, and he often craved thick-sliced bologna. He also enjoyed watching movies, especially at the theater, and he was a music-lover as well.

Gerald is survived by sons Ross S. (and Victoria) Perdue, Jay Henry (and Christy) Perdue, and Jerry L. (and Lizza) Perdue; daughter Donna Marie (and Ron) Green; brother Donnie Perdue; grandchildren Marissa, Jeffrey, Makayla, Sonia, Christina, Jojo, Angel, Andrea, Reane, Heather, Jessica, Ross M., Christopher, Jonah, Haley, Noah and Lucia; great-grandchildren Griffin, Aiden, Ashton, Allyha, Jeffrey Jr., Jasmine, Tyler, Anthony, Lincoln and Gianna.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in his death by his twin brother Harold; sister Beattia; daughters Flora and Mary Beth Perdue; and his best friend, Neale Chase.

Visitation is planned from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, April 20, at Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. Tuesday, April 21, at the funeral home, with Pastor Mark Harris officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette.

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

Buddy Dewayne “Bud” Wheeler, 94, of Fayette, Ohio, died April 8, 2026, at Fulton Manor in Wauseon, Ohio.

Bud was born March 25, 1932, in Hillsdale, Mich., the third of five sons of  Lloyd and Mildred (Terry) Wheeler. He worked for several area farmers in his early life. 

He married the former Gertrude Marie Gigax on Nov. 17, 1951, in Archbold, Ohio, where they made their home for a year before settling on Maple Street in Fayette in 1952. Soon after, Bud enlisted as a member of the United States Army and served during the Korean Conflict. He was honorably discharged in 1954. Together, Bud and Gert raised a family of four children and celebrated more than 67 years of memories prior to her passing on April 6, 2019.

Upon return to civilian life, Bud worked for Bert Leininger in home building and eventually went out on his own, operating Wheeler’s Construction until his retirement. An avid outdoorsman, Bud took numerous trips to Fletcher’s Pond and northern Michigan where he enjoyed fishing, hunting and camping. He was a proud member of the Fayette American Legion John Dale Post 143. 

Surviving are four children, Kathy Fruchey of Fayette, Stanley Wheeler of Bryan, Ohio, John (and Kim) Wheeler of West Unity, Ohio, and David (and Ann) Wheeler of Fayette; eleven grandchildren, Steven, Beth, Kyla, Paige, Kyle, Nicki, Abby, Jenna, Hanna, Collin and Jessie; fourteen great-grandchildren; and a great-great-granddaughter.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Gertrude; brothers, Robert, Max, Larry and Tommy “Ronnie” Wheeler; and son-in-law, Roger Fruchey.

Private graveside services will take place at Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette with Rev. Dr. Samuel Wickard officiating. Military honors will be given by the Fulton County Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Legion John Dale Post 143 or Fayette Volunteer Fire Association. 

Arrangements were made with Marry Funeral Home, Fayette.

Charles Leon Allen, 87, of Lyons, Ohio, died March 26, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family.

Charles was born Dec. 19, 1938, in Delta, Ohio, to Ralph and Lorena (Kolbe) Allen. He was baptized April 30, 1939, and later confirmed on March 29, 1953, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Wauseon, Ohio. Charles was a current member of Lyons Christian Church in Lyons.

Charles started a 43-year truck driving career at Miller Trucking in Archbold, Ohio, in 1964 (which later became FleetMate Trucking) until his retirement in 2007.

He was a simple man, but what did bring a smile to his face was deer hunting in Wyoming, his love of horses, spending his summers in the hayfield and especially his love for his family.

Charles is survived by his wife of 61 years, Rosalind; daughter Missy (and Brent) Good; grandson Mason Good; sister Donna (and John) Knoechelman; brother Fred (and Alice) Allen; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brother Walter Allen.

Visitation is planned from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 31, at Lyons Christian Church. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 1, in the church, with Pastor Heather Schimmel officiating. Interment will follow at Lyons Cemetery.

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

Brandon Alan Brown, 45, of West Unity, Ohio, died March 24, 2026, at his home, surrounded by family while under the care of Hospice, following a six-year battle with ALS.

Many would not have guessed a man of his size and stature would have begun life Nov. 30, 1980, born prematurely at Toledo Hospital. He was a miracle baby only weighing 2 lbs. and 9 oz., the firstborn child of Albert Brown and the former Sherrie Coffman.  

Brandon started his life living in Edon, Ohio, and after moving a few times, in the sixth grade he landed in West Unity, a community that became embedded into who he was. He attended Hilltop High School where he played football, baseball, and basketball, and graduated with the Class of 1999. Brandon immediately entered the workforce after graduation, working most of his career with N.W. Brown Electric (no relation) in West Unity. It was a job that allowed him to showcase his talent, work ethic, and personality to countless people in the community. 

Following a previous marriage that blessed him with two children, Brandon fell in love with the former Melissia Ann Montague, who also had two children, and they blended their two families into one on Aug. 18, 2018, on their beloved property in rural West Unity. They were blessed with two additional children and more than seven years as husband and wife. They are faithful members of Solid Rock Community Church in West Unity, where they were active in their community group. 

Brandon was very talented and could seemingly do or fix anything. He enjoyed handcrafting lamps and various furniture that he generously gave to others, which are now treasured keepsakes. He loved social gatherings, and especially loved campfires and hosting at his barn which became the gathering place of many, through graduation and birthday parties and even several weddings, including his own. He equally enjoyed his time spent in solidarity with his family at home. At times he was predictable with his incredibly regimented nature and routine. He was an avid fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and the Ohio State Buckeyes. He enjoyed road trips to visit his kids living in other states, but his ailment unfortunately limited his ability to take as many trips as he desired. 

A man who wore his heart on his sleeve, Brandon blessed many with his sentimental charm, happy-go-lucky wit, and incredible hugs. He truly loved with his whole heart, and to know Brandon, was to be loved by him.

Surviving in addition to his wife, Melissia, is his mother, Sherrie Queen (and Roger Tipping) of West Unity; his father, Albert “Bert” (and Lori) Brown of Edon; children Ariana (and Max) Blinow of Wilmington, N.C., Hayden (and Zoi) Brown of Wilmington, N.C., Shealyn (and James) Camper of Maumee, Ohio, and Marley Martin, William and Dominik Brown at home; maternal grandfather Homer Coffman of Edgerton, Ohio; paternal grandmother Josephine “Grandma Jo” Brown of Edon; siblings Angela (Olivia) Brown of Findlay, Ohio, Elizabeth (and Glenn) Cruze of Knoxville, Tenn., Joey (and Erin) Brown of McConnelsville, Ohio, Ben (and Megan) Brown of West Unity, and Heath (and Hannah) Brown of Edon; grandchildren Logan, Ezra and Cameron Blinow; in-laws Joe and Brenda Montague of Fayette; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and extended family members. 

Brandon was preceded in his death by his maternal grandmother, Eva Coffman, and paternal grandfather, Albert Brown, and six babies, including Melissia’s baby, Gabriel Asher. 

Visitation is planned from 1 to 7 p.m. Monday, March 30, at Solid Rock Community Church in West Unity. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Tuesday, March 31, at the church, with Pastor Rob Rodriguez officiating. A private burial service in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette for the family will follow a luncheon. 

Arrangements have been made with the guidance of the Marry Funeral Home, Fayette.

Cecelia Ann Carpenter, 84, a lifelong resident of Adrian, Mich., died peacefully Monday morning, March 23, 2026, at Hampton Manor of Madison while under the care of Optimal Care Hospice.

Born Aug. 23, 1941, in Adrian, she was the daughter of Charles and Helen (Ranger) Earles. 

Cecelia was one of 19 students of the first graduating class at Madison Schools in 1959. After high school, she obtained a nursing certificate from St. Vincent’s School of Nursing. In 1975, she earned a BSN from Defiance College. She was employed as a nurse for more than 47 years between the former Bixby Medical Center and Morenci Area Hospital, where she notably served the prominent role of Chief Executive Officer.

On Aug. 11, 1962, Cecelia married the love of her life, Wayne Sidney Carpenter, in Fairfield. Together, they raised a family of three children and celebrated more than 63 years of happy memories and world traveling.

Cecelia was a member of Wellsville United Methodist Church, Order of Eastern Star Chapters in Fairfield and Fulton County, Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Rome and Madison Grange. In her spare time, she enjoyed sewing, photography and reading. In her vast world travels, she was fortunate to have visited 137 countries while visiting all seven continents.

Surviving in addition to her husband, Wayne, is son Matthew (and Kelly) Carpenter of Adrian; daughter Caroline (and Robert) Ambrose of Adrian; three grandchildren, Jacob (and Lindsey) Carpenter, Abby (and Ben) Vittore, and John (and Victoria) Ambrose; great-granddaughter Rosie Jo; bonus great-grandson Joshua; and former exchange students from Germany that have remained part of the family, Richard and Robert Tamas.

Cecelia was preceded in death by her parents; son Bruce Carpenter in 1975; and brothers Richard and Robert Earles.

Visitation will begin at 3 p.m. Thursday, March 26, at Anderson-Marry Funeral Home in Adrian and conclude with an OES Service at 7 p.m. A memorial service is planned at 12:30 p.m. Friday, March 27, at Wellsville United Methodist Church near Blissfield. Pastor Brad Vasey will officiate. Private burial will precede the service in Fairfield Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Wellsville United Methodist Church or the Lenawee Humane Society.

Buddy Gene Stover died at his home in rural Morenci March 12, 2026, while under the care of his loving family and Elara Caring Hospice, days shy of turning 89. 

He was born March 16, 1937, in Ameagle, West Virginia, the second of four children from the union of Clifford and Flossie (Williams) Stover. He lived his formative years in rural West Virginia before moving with this family at age 18 to Michigan, leaving the coal mines to seek employment in automotive manufacturing.

On March 5, 1960, he married the love of his life, the former Joy Elaine Good, in Metz, Ind. Together, they built a home in Munson, Mich., in 1966 where they raised a family of five children, and created a 59-year legacy of faithfulness and happy memories before her death on July 6, 2019. 

Buddy was employed as a tool and die maker for Stubnitz-Green until its closure, and finished his career at the former Cargotainer in Adrian until his retirement. He followed all West Virginia University sports, especially football, and was an avid Yankees fan. He also enjoyed coon hunting and raising fighting roosters. He was proud of his West Virginia heritage and visited each year with his family. He also took his kids to Cedar Point amusement park each year with extended family. His family was the center of his life, and he never missed a sporting or school event of one of his children or grandchildren. Perhaps nothing brought more joy to him than rocking the babies of his expanding family through the years. 

Buddy is remembered for a man of deep convictions who quietly modeled Christian love with his kind, easy-going and gentle personality.

Surviving Buddy is his daughter, Lori (and Kevin) Wilson of Morenci; sons Todd (and Angela) Stover of Morenci, Sean (and Becky) Stover of Napoleon, Ohio, and Brandon (and Laura) Stover of Morenci; 13 grandchildren, Melodee, Heather, Brittany, Tiffany, Nick, Ali, Eli, Tyler, Macey, Colton, Grant, Austin and Braylon; 14 great-grandchildren, Jadyn, Madelyn, Gracelyn, Kane, Benjamin, David, Matthew, Creed, Wren, Lilah, Sage, Miles, Bennett and Kollyns; and two sisters-in-law, Sharon Stover of Fayette and Ona Mohler of Morenci.

In addition to his parents and wife, Buddy was preceded in death by a son, Jeffrey Noel Stover; siblings Jackie Andrews and Franklin and Rudy Stover; and a grandson-in-law, Dusty Timberman. 

Visitation is planned from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, March 20, at Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 21, at the funeral home, with Pastor Darren Lemmon officiating. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Caring Dunn Right in Morenci.

Joanne Arquette, 88, of Swanton, Ohio, formerly of Morenci, Mich., died Feb. 27, 2026, at Hospice of Sylvania, Ohio.

Joanne was born June 30, 1937, to Ralph and Elnora (Ford) Sallows in Royalton Township, Ohio.

She graduated from Morenci High School in June 1955. She married her high school sweetheart, Melvin Arquette, in Morenci on June 19, 1955.

Joanne attended the University of Toledo and graduated with an associate’s degree in library science and later with an associate’s degree in real estate. She worked at Morenci Middle School for 13 years as librarian. After earning the real estate degree, she worked for Marjorie Burk (Morenci Real Estate) and then Goedert Company in Adrian until her retirement in 2000. Melvin and Joanne sold their home in Morenci and moved to Weslaco, Texas. In August 2025, she moved to Swanton to reside with her daughter.

Joanne is survived by daughters Kim (and Rob) Fulton of Swanton and Kris (and Dennis) Swartz of Waldron, Mich.; son Kevin (and Pam) Arquette of Morenci; special friend Elroy Bohach of Victoria, Texas; grandchildren Brad (and Kristy) Turnwald of Saline, Mich., Brian (and Kimberly) Turnwald of Morenci, Lori (and Todd) Bettinger of Metamora, Ohio, Jennifer (and Josh) Meade of Lyons, Ohio, Michael (and Michelle) Fulton of Lyons and Ashley Nino-Wilson of Hudson, Mich.; grandson-in-law Brian Bettinger of Metamora; step-grandsons Johnathon (and Brittany) Fee of Morenci and Brent Fee of Bryan, Ohio; 21 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren.

Joanne was preceded in death by her husband Melvin Arquette; parents Ralph and Elnora Sallows; grandson Matthew Wilson; and great-grandson Kyle Wilson.

Cremation has taken place and a private graveside services will be scheduled at a later date in Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci.

Lois Rae Clark’s faith became sight March 7, 2026, when she stepped from this life into the presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at Hospice of Lenawee Hospice Home Adrian, Mich., surrounded by her family.

Lois was born June 24, 1944, to Don and Eva Schoonover in Morenci, Mich., and  graduated from Morenci High School in the class of 1962. She married the love of her life, and high school sweetheart, James T Clark March 9, 1963, at the Morenci United  Methodist Church. They made their home in Morenci and cherished 63 years together, partners in life and faith. He survives.

She was a member of Canandaigua Community Church and faithfully served there for more than 50 years.

Lois is survived by sons Jamie (and Laura) Clark of Morenci and Jordan (and Robin) Clark of Clayton, Mich.; grandchildren Heather (and Jeff) Schirer, Hillary (and John) Tinervia, Katie Mathias,  Kailyn (and Aaron) Miller, and Kaci Clark; great-grandchildren Madelyn Schirer, Brianna and Brennan Mathias, Miles and Micah Miller; sisters Bonnie Arquette of Adrian and Norma McVay of Goodrich, Mich.; brother Dan (and Joyce) Schoonover of Spring Hill, Fla.; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by brother Norman Schoonover; nephews Alan, Doug and Dennis Schoonover; granddaughter Tiffany Mathias; mother- and father-in-law Virginia and Donald Clark;  brothers-in-law  Paul Walker,  Richard Arquette and Francis McVay.

A Celebration of Life is planned at 11 a.m. May 9 at Canandaigua Community Church, preceded by a visitation starting at 10 a.m.

Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee, Inc. Arrangements were made with Purse Funeral Home.

Diane Sue Carpenter, 67, of Waldron, Mich., formerly of Alvordton, Ohio, died March 7, 2026, at CHP Hospice in Defiance, following a battle with cancer.  

She was born April 22, 1958, in Toledo, Ohio, the daughter of Robert and MaryAnn (Guldi) Gable. 

Diane grew up in Alvordton and was a 1976 graduate of Hilltop High School. She worked as a young girl for the family’s business, the former Gable Grocery Store in Alvordton until she became an adult. She then worked at the IGA store in West Unity, Ohio, until its closure, and for 24 years she was employed with Farmers & Merchants State Bank in West Unity as a bank teller, until her retirement.

On New Year’s Day 2004, she married Jeffrey Wayne Carpenter near Bryan. They shared 22 years of marriage prior to his recent passing Feb. 1. They were members of Betzer Community Church in rural Waldron.

In her spare time, Diane enjoyed being outside tending to her flowers or garden and raising her several donkeys, which she proudly would supply to local live nativity scenes. She and Jeff enjoyed the annual National Threshers Reunion in Wauseon, Ohio, where they entered a power wagon and tractors. They once enjoyed a trip to Hawaii and traveled to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula near Curtis each summer or fall to enjoy the peaceful nature there. She will be remembered as a strong-willed woman and loving grandmother, who was always looking out for others.

Diane is survived by her son Kevin R. (and Olivia) Yeupell of Alvordton; daughter Marjorie Yeupell-Apsega of Maine; grandchildren Justin and Katelyn Yeupell, and Jaiden and Andrew; brother Michael P. (and Brenda) Gable of Alvordton;  brother-in-law Lewie M. Carpenter of Waldron; sister-in-law Wava O. (and Michael) Kramer of Fayette, Ohio; nieces and nephews Tanya (and Jeff) Beltz, Gregory (and Lorranie) Gable, Mark (and Heather) Gable, Derek (and Jessica) Kramer, Brandon Kramer, Jennifer Burkholder, Amy (and Andrew) Sauder, Justin (and Lindsey) Smith, and Christopher (and Shenae) Kramer; and nine great-nieces and nephews.  

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

Visitation is planned from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday, March 16, at Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. The funeral service will begin at 6, with Pastor Kim Repp officiating. Private burial will take place next to her husband in Walnut Grove Cemetery in Alvordton.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for their future consideration.

Lorraine Kay Butler Pillow, 70, of Adrian, Mich., formerly of Clayton, Morenci and Elkton, died Feb. 25, 2026, at the home of her sister.

She was born Sept. 30, 1955, in St. Clair, Mich., the daughter of Ralph Otis and Alice Mae (Rankin) Butler, III.

Lorraine graduated from Marysville High School, then Adrian College with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned a master’s degree in English from Michigan State University.

Lorraine married Rev. Craig A. Pillow on Aug. 9, 1980, at the Morenci United Methodist Church. He preceded her in death Jan. 7, 2017. Lorraine taught at Morenci Elementary School for 29 years and later in retirement served as the secretary at Pigeon First United Methodist Church. She was very active in church ministry with her husband, leading youth groups and Vacation Bible School at Morenci, Clayton, Rollin Center, Elkton and Pigeon First United Methodist Church. She was tirelessly dedicated to youth in education and spiritual ministry.

Surviving Lorraine are her two sons, Wesley Pillow and Vance (and Jaime Henning) Pillow; brothers and sisters Ralph (and Elizabeth) Butler, IV, Carolyn Butler, Beverly (and Glenn) Davis, Brinton Butler and George (and Teri) Butler; sister-in-law Sara Pillow; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; brother Art Butler; sister Barbara (and Jack) Lansing; brothers- and sisters-in-law Robert Pillow, Jeraine (and Robert) Thompson, Doreen (and Robert) Romzek, Donna (Draper) Collins, Fred Draper and Edward Collins.

Funeral services will begin at noon  Saturday, March 7, at Anderson-Marry Funeral Home, Adrian, with Pastor Jackie Roe officiating. Burial will follow at North Dover Cemetery, Clayton. Visitation is planned from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, March 6, at the funeral home.

Memorials are suggested to Clayton United Methodist Church, Elkton United Methodist Church, Pigeon First United Methodist Church, or Angela Hospice.

Joan B. Tejkl, 77, of Lyons, Ohio, died Feb. 14, 2026, a day shy of her 78th birthday, at Fulton Manor in Wauseon, Ohio, surrounded by her family.

Joan was born Feb. 15, 1948, in Detroit, Mich., to Thomas "Otto" and Marjorie (Goodale) Blackburn. Joan lived a life full of love, faith, and creativity that touched the hearts of many.

Joan was a 1966 graduate of Redford High School. She began her career working for the Metalloy Company and continued there more than 20 years.  Later she found her calling as a teacher's aide at Liberty Center and Swanton school districts, where she instilled a love for learning in her students. 

Joan married Jerry Tejkl on Jan. 18, 1980. He preceded her in death on Nov. 29, 2006. A faithful and devoted member of Lickley's Corners Baptist Church in Pittsford, Mich., for 39 years, Joan embraced her faith profoundly, loving her Lord and Savior with all her heart. This faith guided her through life's many challenges and brought her joy, comfort and purpose. Thirty-nine years ago she was looking for a church but found a family there instead.

Joan was a creative soul who relished quilting, crafting and baking, often sharing her delightful creations with family and friends. She was known as an accomplished cake decorator, specializing in wedding cakes that were as beautiful as they were delicious. Her talents found their way into the moments that mattered most, making each occasion special and memorable.

Joan is survived by children Brian (and Becky) Tejkl, Mark (and Sheila) Tejkl, John (and Sheila) Rice, Jamie (and Michelle) Rice, Nikki (and Jeff) Boger, and Jennifer (and Jay) Coopshaw, along with honorary daughters Jolene (and Bruce) Mundhenk and Bobbi (and Chuck) York; grandchildren Angie, Matt (and Alecia), Bailey, Brody (and Sarah), Jordan, Tyler (and Colette), Braxton, Skyler, Trent (and Jackie), and Taylor; and 15 great-grandchildren Karson, Ava, Mya, Mason, Aven, Paul, Claire, Miriam, Levi, James, Wyatt, Kendall, Eden, Everley, and Sadie; sister Sandy Evans; sisters- and brothers-in-law Marie Blackburn, Sis (and Joe) Richards, and Janice (and Mark) Largent; and many nieces and nephews.

Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry; parents; grandson Jamie Boger; and siblings Edward, Richard, Sally, George, Paul, Willy, Ethel, Jody, and twin sister Jean.

A Celebration of Life will begin at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 1, at Lyons Christian Church Friendship Hall.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Lickley's Corners Baptist Church - Building Fund, 10000 Tamarack Rd., Pittsford, MI 49271 or Lyons Fire Department, 409 W. Morenci St., Lyons, OH 43533.

Arrangements were made with Weigel Funeral Homes. 

Steven L. Ebersole, 73, of Delta, Ohio, died Feb. 12, 2026, at his home.

He was born July 4, 1952, in Morenci, Mich., to Roger W. Ebersole and Gladys V. (Rose) Ebersole, Byers. Steve was a 1970 graduate of Delta High School and completed his education at Humbolt University as an air traffic controller. On Feb. 9, 1985, he married Judy Case, Dominique. He and Judy spent the next 41 years together.

Steve worked at Globe-Weis in Wauseon, Ohio, and Pilliod Cabinet Company in Swanton, Ohio, in maintenance and fabrication. Later in life he drove semi-trucks for Larry Reynolds and Trigger Smith, retiring from Sterling Pipe and Tube in Toledo.

He was a member of the Delta Isaac Walton League where he enjoyed skeet shooting and spending time with family. Steve played bass guitar in several bands over the years, was a member of the National Street Rod Association, loved going to classic car shows, and racing his '48 Ford Pickup at Milan and Norwalk, which he restored himself. He took pride in and enjoyed constructing extensive Halloween displays, for and with, his many grandchildren each year.

Steve is survived by his wife Judy; son Chad (and Jaime) Ebersole; grandsons Nathan and Colin Ebersole; sisters Linda Creps and Gala (and Jeff) Pennington; brothers Roger (and Emma) Ebersole and Garry (and Jennifer) Byers; three stepchildren; 13 step-grandchildren; 10 step-great-grandchildren; uncle Arnold (and Sharon) Ebersole; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, mother and his stepfather, Galen Byers.

In keeping with his wishes, there will be no services. He will be cremated and buried alongside family members in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the charity of the door's choice.

Arrangements were made with Weigel Funeral Home in Delta. 

Janis Marie Wilson, 54, of Morenci, Mich., died Feb. 12, 2026, at Toledo Hospital.

She was born Dec. 6, 1971, in Adrian, Mich., to Charles and Joyce (Lauffer) Horner. Janis attended Morenci Area Schools. In her early years, Janis married Matthew Wilson. Their time together was brief, as Matt passed away in an automobile accident on Dec. 5, 1995.

In her spare time, Janis found joy in searching for rare coins and going fishing.

Janis is survived by brothers Jim (and Heather) Sanders, Jerry Horner, and Joey Horner, and three grandsons, Hagen, Holden, and Hayze Wilson.

In addition to her husband and parents, Janis is preceded in death by her son, Kyle Wilson.

Visitation is planned from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17, at Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18, at the funeral home, with Rev. William VanValkenburg officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for future designation.

Rollin Lee Schaffner, 77, of Fayette, Ohio, died unexpectedly at his home  Feb. 9, 2026.

Born June 1, 1948, in Wauseon, Ohio, he was the son of Paul and Naomi (Clay) Schaffner. 

A lifelong Fayette resident, Rollin was a 1966 graduate of Gorham Fayette High School. After graduation he immediately enlisted to serve his country as a member of the Army National Guard. On Aug. 14, 1976, he married the love of his life, the former Vicky Lynn Mull of Archbold, Ohio. Together they raised a son and a daughter and enjoyed nearly 50 years of memories as husband and wife.

Rollin worked at the Fayette grain elevator for many years before driving truck for R&S Lines in Stryker, Ohio, where he retired in 2013. There, he was known to his fellow truckers as “Woodchuck.” 

He was a member of the Fayette Lions Club, Fulton County Sportsmen Club, and Everyday Hope Church in Wauseon. When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed fishing, trap-shooting, and mowing his lawn. In retirement he looked forward to bi-monthly “Truckers Breakfasts” at the Home Restaurant in Archbold.

Rollin was easy-going yet strong-willed and had a great sense of humor, creating a clever nickname for everyone he cared for.

In addition to his wife, Vicky, Rollin is survived by daughter Tori “Flo” (and Earl) Winegarner of Archbold; son Justin “Buck” (and Michelle) Schaffner of Wauseon; brothers David (and Paula) Schaffner of Fayette and Randy Schaffner of Lansing, Mich.; sister Dianne (and Mike) Lumbrezer of Merritt Island, Fla.; and grandchildren Gavin “Punkin”, Nate “Smiley” and Braden “Flip”.

In addition to his parents, Rollin was preceded in his death by a son, Trevor James Schaffner, at birth.

Cremation will take place. A memorial service will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 13, at the Pettisville Missionary Church in Pettisville, with Pastor Mark McCready officiating. A time of food and fellowship with the family will immediately follow.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Everyday Hope Church or to the family. 

Arrangements have been made with the guidance of the Marry Funeral Home, Fayette.

Chris Alan Emmons, 63, of rural Alvordton, Ohio, died Feb. 9, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family while under the care of Elara Caring Hospice.

Born Dec. 5, 1962, in Morenci, Mich., he was the third child of Leland and Darlene (Ries) Emmons. He grew up in Morenci and was a 1981 graduate of Morenci Area Schools. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the Army National Guard where he honorably served for six years until 1987.

In 1996, he met the former Melinda Kay Grime of Archbold, Ohio, at Melody’s in Fayette. They quickly fell in love and were married in West Unity the following year on Sept. 6, 1997. Chris was employed at the former Standard Register in Adrian, Mich., for 18 years and later worked as a maintenance supervisor at IAC in Wauseon, Ohio, for 19 years prior to medical disability in October of 2024. 

An avid outdoorsman, Chris loved fishing, building and playing outside with his grandchildren. He was mechanically inclined and was known to be able to fix virtually anything, and was happy to selflessly give of his time to help anyone in need.

He and Melinda enjoyed frequent trips each year to visit some of their favorite people in Missouri. Chris was quiet yet enjoyed social settings, as long as he wasn’t the center of attention. He was funny but humble, and his happy-go-lucky personality and carefree singing will be forever missed.

Surviving in addition to his wife of 28 years, Melinda, is his mother Darlene Emmons of Clayton, Mich.; sons Ben (and Crystal) Meyer and Nate (and Tara) Meyer of Archbold; brothers Lee Emmons (and Teresa Hutchison) and Eric (and Sandy) Emmons of Morenci; sister Margret Emmons of Clayton; grandchildren Zach (and Meredith), Carson, Braden, Carlee, Jesse, and Luci; great-granddaughter Callie; and numerous nieces and nephews and extended family members. 

He was preceded in his death by his father.

Visitation is planned from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 15, at Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Private committal will take place in St. Peter Catholic Cemetery in Archbold.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the ALS Association.

Richard Allen Buehrer, 91, of Fayette, Ohio, died Feb. 5, 2026, in the comfort of his home and surrounded by loved ones while under the compassionate care of Heartland Hospice.

He was born April 28, 1934, the son of  Clarence and Alice Buehrer. He married the love of his life, the former Virginia Lee Borton on Sept. 14, 1969. Together they joined two families into one and celebrated nearly 55 years of memories before her passing on July 21, 2024.

Dick served his country as a proud member of the United States Army from 1954 until his honorable discharge in 1956. He worked in the maintenance department at the former Dayton Walther Corporation until his retirement in 1997. He was a 60-year veteran of the Gorham-Fayette Fire Department, logging in countless hours driving the ambulance, always showing up for others when they needed help the most. He was also a faithful member of the Fayette Methodist Church. In his spare time, he enjoyed woodworking.

Dick lived a long and full life, and his family is forever grateful for every story, laugh, and memory shared with him.

Surviving are daughters Becky (and David) Lichtenwald and Amy Schaffner; son Tod Schaffner;  grandchildren Chad Lichtenwald, Brooke Batson, Keri  Luderman (and Jeremey), Tyler Schaffner, Jade Schaffner (and Alex), Nicholas Schaffner, and Mikhaela Diaz; great-grandchildren Terrell Batson, Tremaine (and Kristen) Batson, Addisen Lichtenwald and Karli Luderman; and great-great-grandchildren Brooklyn, Beckhem, Anabelle and Judah. 

In addition to his parents and wife, Ginny, he was preceded in his death by daughter Jill Flinchum; brother Art; and grandsons Adam Lichtenwald and Fernando Diaz.

Visitation is planned from 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 14, at the Family Life Center in Fayette until the memorial service at noon. Pastor Brad Martin will officiate. Inurnment will take place at a later date in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette.

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

Arrangements were made with the guidance of the Marry Funeral Home, Fayette.

Pamela S. Borton, 68, of Manitou Beach, Mich., formerly of Hudson and Morenci, died Jan. 21, 2026, at Adrian Bay Rehab and Nursing Center, Adrian. 

She was born Aug. 26, 1957, in Hudson, the daughter of Ronald J. and Betty Lou (Bancroft) Yenor.

Pam graduated from Morenci Area High School in 1975. She married Randall L. Borton on June 20, 1989, in Las Vegas, and he survives.

Pam worked as a loan officer and manager of an H & R Block tax office. She was an avid golfer and bowler. She loved watching sports, especially the Detroit Lions and college football and basketball. Pam was very knowledgeable and enjoyed analyzing statistics, play calls and discussing the game. She liked running pools and competing picking the winners. 

Pam enjoyed traveling, going up north, stopping at casinos, and trips to Florida to visit her grandchildren. She cherished her time with her grandchildren.

Pam is survived by husband Randy; daughter Jillian (and Ryan) Glew; grandchildren Zoey and Gabriel Glew;  brother Mike (and Mary) Yenor; sister Deborah Schumacher; cousin Sue (and Gary) Sutherland; and several other extended family members.

Funeral services were Jan. 26, 2026, at Marry Funeral Home, Hudson, with Pastor Darren Lemmon officiating. Burial followed at Maple Grove Cemetery in Hudson.

Beverly J. Ledyard, 71, of Wauseon, Ohio, died Feb. 2, 2026, at Fountain Park Assisted Living in Bryan, Ohio. 

She was born April 21, 1954, in Montpelier, Ohio, to Harvey J. and Nancie M. (Falor) Beaverson. She attended and graduated from Gorham Fayette Schools and then on Feb. 12, 1977, she married Larry C. Ledyard in Wauseon, and he preceded her in death on June 10, 2014.  

Beverly worked at Perfection Finishers in Wauseon for many years, but for the last 15 years she worked as a seamstress for Designer Shades in Delta, Ohio. 

When she wasn’t working, Beverly loved to stay busy with her many hobbies. She loved to sew, quilt and make crafts to give to her friends and family. She would enter antiques, baked goods and quilts into the fair each year, and won countless ribbons. Beverly also enjoyed baking, especially Christmas cookies, making candy, and attending garage sales.

 She is survived by children Mark, Julie, and Shelly Ledyard; and brothers Daryl (and Joni) and Paul (and Jeri Sue) Beaverson.

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

 Visitation is planned from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 8, at Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. Monday, Feb. 9, at the funeral home. Interment will follow in Wauseon Union Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Elara Caring Hospice or Fountain Park Assisted Living and Memory Care.

Barbara J. Baker, 92, of Lyons, Ohio, died Jan. 17, 2026, at her residence  under the care of Hospice of Northwest Ohio.

She was born Nov. 7, 1933, in Ogden Center, Mich., to Earl and Dora (Schafer) Simpkins. On Aug. 21, 1950, Barb married Russell E. Baker in Angola, Ind., and he preceded her in death Dec. 1, 1990.

Barb had some waitressing jobs during her lifetime, but her main focus was being a housewife and mother. She loved her family and they were her pride and joy. Barb enjoyed sewing and baking for them and traveling with them. In her free time, she enjoyed garage sales and the occasional casino trip. She was a member of East Chesterfield Church.

She is survived by her children Rick (and Linda) and Randy (and Kelli) Baker, and Rebecca Donaldson; nine grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and sisters Sharon Schmidt, Betty Hall and Beverly Cowell.

Along with her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by sisters Wanda and Shirley; brothers Maurice, Lanny, Arnold and Ronald; and a son-in-law, James Donaldson.

Services for Barb will be private and interment will be in Lyons Cemetery.

Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Northwest Ohio.

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

Deana Lynn VanArsdalen, 64, of rural Fayette, Ohio, died suddenly Jan. 19, 2026, at Parkview Bryan Hospital.

Born March 1, 1961, in Bryan, Ohio, she was the daughter of DeWayne and Myrtle (Pinette) VanArsdalen.

Deana grew up in West Unity, Ohio, and graduated from Hilltop High School with the Class of 1979. After high school, she worked for several years at the former Peter Stamping in Fayette before starting a family, and later provided daycare out of her home while she raised her daughters. Later she worked as a waitress for the Village Kitchen in West Unity, where she eventually was promoted to manager and bookkeeper. She was a member of the Alvordton United Brethren Church.

Fond of the simple pleasures of life, Deana found joy in singing, cooking, baking and gardening, as well as antiquing with her husband, Tony. They enjoyed annual trips to Holmes County each summer, often on his motorcycle.  In more recent years she adored the blessings of her grandchildren and never missed an athletic or school event to showcase her pride. Her kindness and always-joking fun-loving personality will be forever remembered and deeply missed.

In addition to her husband, Tony Hand, Deana is survived by her mother, Myrtle VanArsdalen of West Unity; daughters Danyel VanArsdalen of Toledo, Chelsee Hand of West Unity, and Toni (and Danny) Smith of Wauseon; sisters Debbie (and Mike) Hand and Robyn Henry, both of West Unity; brother Bruce (and Rhonda) VanArsdalen of West Unity; 11 grandchildren, Trey and Ariana Fuller, Carlee and Libbee Schaffner, Jackson Hand, Sierra, Spencer Jr., and Skylar Lester, Gabe Stephens, and Phoenix and Piper Smith; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

She was preceded in her death by her father, Dewey VanArsdalen; brother David VanArsdalen; nephews Dewey and Jeremy Hand; and brother-in-law Tom Henry.

Cremation will take place. To celebrate her life, the family will receive friends for a  memorial visitation at Marry Funeral Home in Fayette from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 26. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Heart Association.

Keith Brandeberry, 96, of Hillsdale, Mich., formerly of Wauseon, Ohio, and Morenci, Mich., died Jan. 13, 2026, at Drews Place at Village Green in Hillsdale.

He was born Sept. 17, 1929, in Wright Township, Mich., the son of Lynn and Marie (Snider) Brandeberry. He married Virginia Mae Bradley on May 13, 1949, in Angola, Ind. Virginia preceded him in death Nov. 13, 2020.

Keith worked for Morenci Rubber Products for 12 years and Alltel Corporation in Morenci for 15 years. He retired in 1989.

Keith enjoyed fishing, square dancing with Virginia, going on casino trips, playing Bingo, and spending time with family. He enjoyed the time he and Virginia spent living in Florida.

Keith is survived by four sons, Gary (and Mary), David (and Evelyn), Randy (and Constance), and Rick (and Jill) Brandeberry; seven grandchildren; 10  great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; four sisters, Lois Cogswell, Barbara Burton, Shirley Mercer and Janet Calvin; and two brothers, Doyle Brandeberry and Norman (and Pat) Brandeberry.

He was preceded in death by his wife; parents; grandson Eric Brandeberry; sister Phyllis Cogswell; and two daughters-in-law, Paula Brandeberry and Ann Brandeberry.

Visitation is planned from 3 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 15, at Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Funeral services will begin at 1:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16, at the funeral home, with. Rev. Greg Bordine  officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Hillsdale County or Drews Place at Village Green’s activity fund.

Neil A. Magbanua, 56, of Dumont, N.J., formerly of Morenci, Mich., died Jan. 2, 2026. 

Neil was born in Bacolod City, Philippines, the son of Imelda and the late Herminio Magbanua. He graduated from Morenci Area High School and served as a chef at the River Vale Country Club, River Vale, N.J.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by  siblings Lida Buenaventura and Eufemia Penaflor, and extended family members.

Funeral services were Jan. 10 at Frech-McKnight Funeral Home in Dumont.

Allan B. Crawford, 84, of Wauseon, Ohio, died Jan. 2, 2026, at Hillside Country Living in Bryan, Ohio.

He was born April 14, 1941, in Fayette to Cleophus D. and Connie M. Crawford. Allan graduated from Gorham-Fayette High School and then furthered his education, beginning at Adrian College and finishing a bachelor's degree at the University of Alaska.

In 1966, he moved to Alaska and worked for the United States Postal Service. Allan loved living in Alaska, however he moved back to Northwest Ohio in 2024. While living in Alaska, he purchased land and built his own cabin, and was a recorder for the National Weather Service for more than 30 years, earning several awards. In his free time, he enjoyed growing plants and traveling. He visited several countries in his lifetime.

He is survived by nephews James “Sonny” (and Amy), John (and Shou Ping), Larry, and Charles (and Cecelia) Crawford.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, James, on Nov. 30, 2025.

Cremation will take place and there will be no services.

The Marry Funeral Home in Fayette assisted the family with arrangements.

Barbara Keller, 83, died Dec. 16, 2025, at Montview Care Center December 16, 2025.

Barbara was born in Morenci, Mich., to Rex Tuttle and Esther Tuttle. Barbara married Phillip Keller, the love of her life, of Milan, Ohio, on Aug. 26, 1967.

Whether you knew her for a lifetime or just a moment, her impact was undeniable. She taught the value of kindness, the strength of love, and the beauty of living with an open heart.

Barbara is survived by children Mark and Michelle Keller.

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

A memorial service will begin at 1 p.m.  Friday, Jan. 9, at Helke Funeral Home, Wausau, Wis., with Rev. Peter Williamson officiating. Visitation is planned from noon until the time of service. The celebration of life will continue at Timekeeper Lounge and Distillery.

Barbara will be laid to rest next to Phil at Gethsemane Cemetery in Minnesota at a later date.

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to Michelle Keller.

Lawrence A. Towers, 89, of rural Fayette, Ohio, died Jan. 1, 2026, at Fulton County Health Center in Wauseon.

He was born Dec. 27, 1936, to Jesse A. and Audrah I. (Root) Towers. While attending high school, Lawrence walked into the gymnasium, and a girl caught his eye. He told his friends he was going to marry that girl, and on Oct. 6, 1956, he and Glenda Beaverson were united in marriage. They recently celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary.

Lawrence worked as a tool and die maker at Dana Corporation until his retirement. Not being able to sit still after his retirement, Lawrence began woodworking – making hardwood furniture and crafts alongside his wife. They would then travel all over, selling his furniture at various craft shows.

Family was everything to Lawrence, and he never missed an opportunity to spend time with them, especially his grandchildren. Farming was also in his heart, and his family had a hard time getting him off a tractor or his 4-wheeler. Lawrence enjoyed any chance to be outdoors, whether he was cutting wood, hunting or fishing. He also enjoyed making homemade maple syrup.

In addition to his wife Glenda, Lawrence is survived by sons Mark (and Kathy), David (and Angel), and Brian (and Deb) Towers; daughters Connie (and Jeff) Winzeler, Marcia (and Tom) Franks, and Diane (and Dean) Reinking; 16 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and six step-great-grandchildren. 

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers Ernest and Donald Towers and sisters Leona Marie Warren and Louise Towers.

 Visitation is planned from 2 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6, at Fayette Church of the Nazarene. Visitation will resume Wednesday, Jan. 7, from 10 a.m. until the start of the funeral service at 11, also at the Nazarene Church. Pastor Kim Repp and family friend Bill Downing will officiate services. Interment will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Fayette Volunteer Fireman's Association.

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

Barbara J. Beaverson, 81, of Fayette, Ohio, died peacefully on New Year’s Day, Jan. 1, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loved ones. She was reunited in Heaven with the love of her life on what would have been their 51st wedding anniversary.

Barb was born in Wauseon, Ohio, on May 10, 1944, the older of two daughters of Clair and Betty (Ellis) Smith. Barb grew up in West Unity and was a member of the Class of 1962 at Hilltop High School. On Jan. 1, 1975, in Fayette, she married Gene W. Beaverson. Their two families became one and they shared more than 46 years of life together before his passing  Jan. 16, 2021.

Barb worked as a nail technician and owned her own salon in Fayette for several years. She was a longtime member of the Morenci Eagles. She and Gene were once crowned Queen and King of the Fayette Royal Bullthistle Festival.

She enjoyed reading, watching Hallmark movies, listening to her beloved Elvis music, and dancing. Barb greatly anticipated annual trips with her grandchildren to South Carolina to visit her sister, each year making new everlasting memories. She had an adoration for shoes, purses and jewelry and she took pleasure in indulging in a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. Her greatest joy came from being in the company of her family, especially enjoying the blessings of her grandchildren and her beloved canine companion, Peanut. Barb’s big heart and fun-loving personality will be forever missed.

Surviving Barb are her five daughters, Barbara (and Kent) Lester of Fayette, Fawn Schaffner of Fayette, Cindy (and Tracy) Mitchell of Pickerington, Ohio, Chris Pennington of Fayette, and Danni (and Brian) Keefer of Fayette; sister Wilda “Shorty” (and Denny) Steele of McCormick, S.C.; 16 grandchildren, Natasha, Andrew, Chad, Ryan, Hillary, Lindsey, Wes, Nathan, Brittany, Aaron, Austin, Alec, Adriana, Tyler, Paige and Trey; 31 great-grandchildren; and a great-great-granddaughter.

She was preceded in her death by her parents; husband Gene; son Mike Beaverson; sons-in-law Keith Grant and Tim Pennington; nephew Matt Steele; and great-grandson Reese Hylander.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6, at the Family Life Center in Fayette, followed by a funeral service at 5 p.m. Cremation will follow, and she will be laid to rest next to Gene in Pleasant View Union Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to benefit Bean Creek History Center, Lauber Hill Cemetery Fund, or the Fayette Volunteer Fire Association.

Arrangements were made with Marry Funeral Home, Fayette.

Christoper Peebles, 67, died Dec. 21, 2025, at home surrounded by his family. 

Christoper was born Dec. 2, 1958, in Hudson, Mich., to Al and Nancy (Camp) Peebles. He was a graduate of Evergreen High School and married Angie Miller on Dec. 17, 2017, in Defiance, Ohio.

Christopher worked at Sauder Woodworking in Archbold, Ohio, and took great pride in officiating high school football, basketball and softball contests. He never turned down an opportunity to be part of a game.

Christopher is survived by wife Angie; sons Mitchell and Clayton; daughter Robin (and Wayne) Knapp; stepson Gary (and Mikayla) Marshall; stepdaughter Penny (and Jason) Mendoza; grandchildren Elyse and Cora; step-grandchildren Elizabeth, Jessie, Emilee, Alivia, Jacob, Kristopher, Gabriella, Kaitlyn, Joseph, Jace, Odin and Draven; step-great-grandson Emiliano; brothers Brad (and Nancy) Peebles, Kurt (and Michelle) Peebles, Troy Peebles; sisters Mary Jo Vagen, Alecia (and Tom) Miller, Peggy Howard, and Jana (and Matt) Smithmyer.

He was proceeded in death by his parents; sister-in-law Connie Peebles and brother in-law Tim Howard.

Cremation has taken place.

Arrangements were made with Marry Funeral Home, Fayette.

Dean L. Myers, 79, of Fayette, Ohio, died Dec. 24, 2025, at Fulton County Health Center, surrounded by his loving family. 

Dean was born Sept. 20, 1946, in Morenci, Mich., to Jesse W. and Laona K. “Onie” (Weber) Myers. Dean attended and graduated from Gorham Fayette Schools. He leaves behind his loving wife of 46 years, Shelley. They were married March 3,1979, in Fayette.

Dean served his country in the United States Navy for four years and was able to see and experience a lot during that time. He had many jobs after leaving the service. He worked at Dayton-Walther for 13 years where he was a supervisor. He loved farming and working part-time for the village of Fayette. Dean joined Gorham-Fayette Fire Department, serving for 11 years, and rose through the ranks attaining Captain and Assistant Chief. He was also a Fayette American Legion Post 143 member.

Dean was always one who had to have the perfect yard, and he made sure of that. When he was not playing cards with family or neighbors, you could find him in the kitchen cooking up a storm. Dean also enjoyed playing Bingo, where he always would win, it never failed.  He was a Little League coach, enjoyed woodworking crafts and trips that he and his wife took, and loved his new passion for historic things. Dean was a family man and would always do what needed to be done. He was often seen supporting his grandkids in their sporting events. He also enjoyed summer cookouts with the family.

In addition to his wife, Shelley Myers, Dean is survived by children Brian (and  Jolene) Myers, Shane (and Mia) Myers, Rebecca (and Mike) Beals and Mandy (and Mark) Avery; grandchildren Jena Groves, Jake Myers, Caleb Avery, Tristan Avery, Samuel Avery, Seth DeLosSantos, Wesley Derby, John Derby, Matthew Beals, Ashlyn Hill, Dallas Timberman, Madelyn Timberman, Gracelyn Timberman and Jadyn Wilson; and 17 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Dusty Timberman.

 Visitation is planned from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 30, at Marry Funeral home in Fayette. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31, with Rev. William VanValkenburg officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Fayette Fire Association.

Karen Sue (Burrow) Schwab, 74, of Morenci, Mich., died Dec. 18, 2025, at her home while under the care of Elara Caring Hospice. She spent her final days surrounded by her family and many friends. 

Karen was born April 7, 1951, in Adrian, Mich., to George and Lurlene Burrow. She traveled extensively during her life and enjoyed visiting new places.  She loved spending time playing games with her family, fishing, and doing puzzles.  She loved animals, especially dogs, and enjoyed road trips with her partner, Becky. 

Karen is survived by her daughter Michelle Smith (and Jason Howley); grandson Christopher Foreman, of Colorado; siblings Randy (and Kelley) Burrow, Charles (and Bea) Burrow, and Charlene Liechty; and numerous nieces and nephews.  She was cared for in her final days by her loving partner, Becky Powell. 

Karen was proceeded in death by her parents and two nephews, Jamie Witt and Ron Burrow.  

The family will announce a Celebration of Life in the coming months.  

Donations are suggested to Karen’s brother, Randy Burrow, to assist with the cost of cremation. 

Arrangements were made with the guidance of the Marry Funeral Home, Morenci.

George Eugene Hollstein, 95, of Morenci, Mich., died Dec.14, 2025, at the Fulton County Health Center in Wauseon, Ohio.

George was born Nov. 24, 1930, in Kunkle, Ohio, to John and Viva (Hendricks) Hollstein.

His father worked for the railroad and moved to Morenci to raise a family. George graduated from Morenci High School in 1950. He was active in school sports and a member of the state champion football team, earning all-county honors.

 On June 8, 1952, he married Doris Mae Sprague at Morenci’s Congregational Church.

George joined the Air Force after graduation and served for four years, working as a cook where he was stationed in San Antonio, Texas. He then began a career in farming.

George maintained a huge garden every summer and enjoyed reading books about history. He also served as a Little League coach.

In addition to his wife, Doris, George is survived by children Ray (and Pam) Hollstein and Curtis (and Lisa) Hollstein; grandchildren Katie (and Micah) Smith, Barbara Hollstein, Mary Margaret (and Mitchell) Gallup, Edward Hollstein, Alicia (and Dustin) Sharp, Danielle (and Morgan) Seeley, Lucas (and Kelsey) Hollstein, Makayla Hollstein, Isaiah Miguel Hollstein and Isaiah Reece Hollstein; 17 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Janet.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Harvey and Orville; sister Sharlene; and one grandchild, Emily Hollstein.

Visitation is scheduled from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23, at Marry Funeral Home, Morenci. A graveside service will be scheduled in the spring.

Terry A. Upcott, 81, of Morenci, Mich., died Dec. 15, 2025, at the Hospice House in Adrian.

He was born March 16, 1944, in Pontiac, Mich., to Ernest and Dorthy (Ravell) Upcott. Terry graduated from Pontiac Central High School in 1964. On July 22, 1967, he married Sandra Kay Hardenburgh in Waterford, Mich., and she preceded him in death on June 26, 2024. 

Terry worked for General Motors for more than 30 years during which time he also earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Bob Jones University. 

Terry was a devoted family man and deeply loved “his Sandy.” He was an active member of church throughout his life, serving as a Sunday school teacher, Sunday school superintendent, and a deacon. Terry enjoyed old car shows, trains, and Detroit sports, especially the Red Wings, Tigers and Lions, but what he was most known and loved for was his witty sense of humor. If you were around Terry, you were sure to leave smiling.

He is survived by children Terry (and Jennifer) Upcott and Tracy (and Floyd) Schell; 10 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and brothers Jim (and Janice) Upcott and Ernest “Skip” Upcott. 

Along with his parents and wife, Sandy, he was preceded in death by his twin brother, Tommy Upcott.

Visitation is planned from 10 a.m. until noon Monday, Dec. 22, at Marry Funeral Home in Morenci at which time funeral services will begin. His son, Pastor Terry Upcott, will officiate. Cremation will follow, and Terry and his wife, Sandy, will be inurned together in Oak Grove Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee.

Rose Mary Smith, 83, of Centerville, Ohio, formerly of Morenci, Mich., Napoleon, Ohio, and Ft. Myers, Fla., died  Dec. 11, 2025, while under the care of Hospice of Dayton.

Rose was born Oct. 3, 1942, in Flemingsburg, Ky., the daughter of Arnold and Eula (Downey) Estep.

On July 13, 1963, she married Joseph Lee Ball. After Joe’s death in 1979, she married Sidney Triever Smith on May 10, 1986, in Cincinnati. They shared more than 36 years of making memories together until his death Dec. 5, 2022.  

Rose worked for 12 years at Morenci Area Schools as a cook until her retirement in 2003. She enjoyed sewing and reading in her spare time.

She is survived by children Joseph (and Vicki) Ball of Centerville, David “Shane” (and Angela) Ball of Jackson, Mich., Michael (and Dawn) Smith of Marion, Ohio, and Mark (and Kathi) Smith of Marion; eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law Joan Ball and Barb Riggs; and numerous nieces and nephews and extended family members.

In addition to her husbands and parents, she was preceded in death by three brothers and three sisters.

Visitation is planned from 10:30 a.m. until the memorial service at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17, at Anderson-Marry Funeral Home in Adrian, with Pastor Darren Lemmon officiating. She will be inurned privately in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton.

James A. Crawford, Sr., 89, of Wauseon, Ohio, died Nov. 30, 2025, at Fulton County Health Center. 

He was born Feb. 2, 1936, in Toledo, Ohio, to Cleophus D. and Connie M. Crawford. Jim graduated from Gorham-Fayette Schools and served his country in the United States Army Reserve. On Feb. 11, 1957, he married Louise E. Lowe, and she preceded him in death Aug. 22, 1994. In January 1995, he married Maxine Miller-Creighton, and she survives. Jim worked for Campbell’s Soup in Napoleon until his retirement in 1995. He then went on to work construction with his son for another 10 years. 

 Jim loved to work.  Whether it was meticulously attending to his yard and garden, or any type of building project. He was instrumental in the addition to his church, Fayette Christian Church, adding an elevator, restrooms, and two offices. A kind and accepting person, Jim was an all-around family person. He never missed an opportunity to attend his grandkids sporting events or travel the country.

In addition to his wife of 30 years, Maxine, Jim is survived by children Sonny (and Amy), John (and Shou Ping), Larry, Charles (and Cecelia) Crawford, Daniel (and Penny) and Mike (and Lori) Creighton; 14 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild; brother Allan B. Crawford; and sister-in-law Donna (and Phil) Huffman.

Along with his parents and first wife, Louise, he was preceded in death by a daughter-in-law, Deb Crawford, and a great-grandson, Isaiah James.

Visitation is planned from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, also at the funeral home.  Pastor Vicki Schnitkey will officiate and burial will follow in Tedrow Cemetery. 

Memorial donations are suggested to Sunshine Communities or Fayette Christian Church.

Ivan Franklin Frontz, 89, of Wauseon, Ohio, died Nov. 24, 2025, with his family at his side at the University of Toledo Medical Center.

Born Sept. 28, 1936, in Monroe Twp., Ohio, he was the eldest of 13 siblings of Clayton and Rosella (Lyberger) Frontz. At the age of 14, Ivan left home to seek work on a farm in Ohio.

In 1955, Ivan answered the call of his country and served with distinction in the United States Navy until 1957. Upon his honorable discharge, Ivan returned to civilian life and on Oct. 9, 1964, he married Clarice A. Bachman in Wauseon. He then embarked on a career as a journeyman mechanic at the former Parker Rust Proof Company in Morenci. His career was cut short due to an injury on the job that led to his retirement on disability.

Ivan was a member of the American Legion and the Eagles of Morenci for more than 50 years. In his younger years, Ivan and Clarice enjoyed their many travels together. He found joy in fishing, especially at Lake Erie, and was also fond of golfing and bowling.

One of his most treasured relationships was with his granddaughter Kaitlynn (Kaitie). Their bond was strengthened through shared experiences at the zoo, fairs, homecomings, movies, Kaitie’s cheerleading games, and her karate activities.

Ivan is survived by his wife Clarice; daughter Leigh Ann (and Paul) Myers; and granddaughter Kaitlynn Christenson. 

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial service is planned from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at the Morenci American Legion.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Morenci American Legion.

Arrangements were made with Marry Funeral Home, Morenci.

Arnold Lloyd Smith, 90, of Morenci, Mich., died Nov. 27, 2025, at Lenawee Medical Care Facility while under the care of Hospice of Lenawee.

He was born Jan. 8, 1935, in Morenci to Trevor and Flossie (Krantz) Smith.  Arnold married Carol Jean McCaskey on Sept. 27, 1959, in Morenci. Together, they raised two daughters and celebrated more than 52 years of devoted companionship before her sudden passing on Oct. 6, 2011. 

Arnold proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy.  Returning to civilian life, Arnold worked as a grocer with the former A&P Store in Morenci until its closure, then for the Tecumseh and Adrian locations. Prior to retirement, he also worked in maintenance at the Dominican Life Center. In retirement, he assisted in serving families at the Anderson Funeral Home in Adrian for several years.

He was a member of Sand Creek Community Church, the American Legion Post 368 in Morenci and a 31-year member of the Morenci Fire Department.  A lover of the outdoors, Arnold enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing and taking care of his lawn. Later in life he enjoyed attending the various events of his grandchildren.   

Arnold is survived by two daughters, Laurie (and Ronald) Williams of Sand Creek and Karen Hallett of Adrian; five grandchildren, Kassandra Gray, Andrew (and Jessica) Roddy, Brandon Williams, Lauren (and Bryan) Bell, and Cole Hallett; and four great-grandchildren, Logan Gray, Grady and Joie Roddy and Ryan Bell. 

In addition to his wife, Carol, he was preceded in his death by his parents; four brothers, William, Ray, Burton and Sydney Smith; and one sister, Julia Wilson.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, at Anderson-Marry Funeral Home in Adrian. Funeral services begin at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at the funeral home, with Rev. William Van Valkenburg officiating. Burial with military honors will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci.  

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

Betty J. Kuhn, 85, a lifelong resident of Fayette, Ohio, died in her home Monday, Nov. 24, 2025.

Born in Gorham Township, she was the youngest of three children from the union of the late Floyd and Maudy (Hephner) Kuhn.

Betty loved to play cards and was an avid Euchre player. She also enjoyed putting puzzles together and crocheting. Recently, she was active with the Fulton County Senior Center in Fayette where she attended weekly gatherings and enjoyed socializing with others in the community.

She is survived by niece Judy (and Gene) Kunkle of West Unity, Ohio; nephew Dale Kuhn of Aurora, Col. ; great-nephew and nieces Michael (and Jeannie)  Veillon, Leandra Veillon and Rosie (and Del) Stewart; great-great-nieces and nephews Paige and Ryan Vaughn, Zoe Veillon (and Skylar), Macey Kunkle and Jacob Stewart; and great-great-great-niece Riley Vaughn.

In addition to her parents, Betty was preceded in death by brother L.C. (and Rowena) Kuhn; sister Ruby (and Maurice) Klophenstein; and nephew-in-law Bill Veillon.

Visitation is planned at Marry Funeral Home in Fayette on Saturday, Nov. 29, from 10 a.m. until the service begins at noon. Pastor Kim Repp will officiate. Burial will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to  the Fayette Volunteer Fire Association or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Abbigal Marie-Adele Garbers, 19, of Morenci, Mich., died Nov. 24, 2025, the result of an automobile accident.

Born Oct. 21, 2006, in Adrian, Mich., she was the daughter of Ann Kime and Nathaniel Garbers.

Abby recently graduated from Hudson Area Schools with the Class of 2024. Always challenging herself, she excelled academically in school and also earned numerous horticultural certificates as a member of the Hudson Chapter of FFA. She had a deep appreciation for all living things, possessing numerous plants which she took pride in nurturing, and was a loving pet parent to a variety of reptiles, cats and fish over the years. She aspired to ultimately obtain a career in a field in which she could educate others about animals.

Abby had a strong work ethic and worked two jobs, employed as a cashier at the cafeteria at ProMedica Toledo Hospital and at night as a security guard at The Shops at Fallen Timbers in Maumee.

Artistically talented, Abby enjoyed creating beaded jewelry and various handcrafted goods that she enjoyed marketing at area craft and vendor shows. She also enjoyed reading and playing Magic and D&D.

Abby was known to have a big heart and would do anything to help a person in need. Her time on earth was cut too short and her kind spirit will be forever missed.

She is survived by her mother Ann Kime; father Nathaniel Garbers; siblings Catlin Melendez and Natyleigh Garbers; maternal grandparents Ken and Bonnie Kime; paternal grandparents Rodney and Cassie Garbers; uncle Jake Kime; beloved boyfriend Brendan; close cousin Morgan Blosser; and numerous extended family members.

She was preceded in her death by sister Mysti Snyder and great-grandmother Alice Bryan-Gamble.

Cremation will take place and a public memorial service and dinner will be announced later. 

Memorial contributions can be made to aid the family with final expenses by donating directly through the tribute fund on her online obituary page.

Arrangements were made with Marry Funeral Home, Morenci.

Ernestine Jean Smith, 71, of rural Morenci, Mich., died peacefully at her residence Nov. 21, 2025, surrounded by her family.

She was born Nov. 9, 1954, in Grand Rapids to Joseph and Donna (Taylor) Ledesma.  On June 27, 1987, she married Ward F. “Fred” Smith in Morenci, and he survives.

Ernestine worked in the manufacturing field, retiring from Hi-Lex in Hudson.  Her family was the focus of her life.  She enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  Ernestine loved spending time in and around her pool. She enjoyed traveling to the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee and watching the Hallmark Channel and Lifetime. 

 In addition to her husband of 38 years, Fred, Ernrestine is survived by children Donnie (and Kendra) Alcock, Mandy (and Mike) White; Tonya (and Brian) Houghton, and Sonya (and Chris) Shepherd; grandchildren Desmond, Hunter, Hannah, Breckin, Shamus, Ava, Brooklin, Cailin, Morgin, Ryan, Trinity, Emma, Brayden, Tiffany, Olivia and Chris; great-grandchildren Paisley, Jett and August; brothers Eugene (and Carol) and Steve Ledesma; and  sister Connie (and David) Ford.

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Tina Weaver.

Private graveside services will take place in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee.

The Marry Funeral Home – Morenci Chapel assisted the family with arrangements.

John Scott Porterfield (“Scott”), 75, died peacefully Nov. 12, 2025 in Sylvania, Ohio.

He was born Dec. 23, 1949, at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Scott was the son of Captain John D. Porterfield and Patsy M. Barrett, and stepson to James J. Barrett. 

Scott is survived by his wife Marilyn J. Agee; mother Patsy M. Barrett; siblings Gary (and Tonya) Porterfield, David (and Judi) Barrett, Matthew (and Teresa) Barrett, and Jillan (and Michael) Brown; daughters Jessica Lynn (and Joshua) Manley and Molly Rae (and Jay) Heiss; stepsons Max Glen Lee (and Madalyn) Evans and Jack Bob Jesse (and Melissa) Evans; eight grandchildren, Henry, Harrison, Ivy, Porter, River, Adelaide, Hugh and Lillian.

He was predeceased by his father John D. Porterfield and stepfather James J. Barrett. 

Scott graduated from Morenci Area High School in 1967 where he was manager of several sports teams and was awarded homecoming king. Scott joined the Peace Corps at age 22, before completing his senior year of college at Ferris State University. Scott was deployed to Ethiopia as a smallpox eradication officer with the World Health Organization, where he spent 28 months working on one of public health’s greatest achievements. Living in Ethiopia was a highlight of his life.

After completing his Peace Corps service in 1973, Scott returned to Western Michigan University to finish his bachelor’s degree and earn a Masters of Public Administration. Scott served in several healthcare administration positions throughout Ohio, including Vice-President of Physician Services at Flower Hospital as well as President and CEO of Provider Solutions and Administrator at the Toledo Clinic. Scott retired in 2017 after 50 years of service in the healthcare field. 

Those who knew Scott will remember him for all of the stories he told, his collection of books, his sense of humor, his excellent cooking skills, and his ability to befriend and have a meaningful conversation with anyone.

His grandchildren loved to sit on his lap and read stories, listen to him talk like Donald Duck, tell jokes, and watch movies.

The Celebration of Life open house is planned from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Highland Meadows Golf Club, 7455 Erie St., Sylvania, OH 43560.

George Lester Ely, 75, died Nov. 18, 2025, at Hospice of Lenawee, surrounded by his loving family.

George was born Oct. 12, 1950, in Adrian, Mich., to Merlin and Mearl (Hall) Ely. George worked for Morenci Rubber Products and Sauder Woodworking until his retirement. He enjoyed fishing and hunting and anything that would put him outdoors.

 George is survived by his children Racheal (and Fred) Schneider, Charles “Chuck” (and Angie) Ely, Paula (and Wayne) Martin, and Chad Ely; nine grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; brother Ben Ely; and sister Judy Shay.

George was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Dennis Ely, Lyle Ely at birth, Deb Oswald and Trudy Ely at birth, and brothers-in-law Larry Shay and Danny Oswald.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 25, at Anderson-Marry Funeral Home – Adrian, with a memorial service beginning at 4 p.m. Burial will take place at  later date in Porter – Packard Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee.

Charity Christina Smith, 36, of Hudson, Mich., died Nov. 16, 2025, at ProMedica Flower Hospital in Sylvania, Ohio.

Born Feb. 27, 1989, in Adrian, Mich., she was the daughter of Robert and Christina (Stidham) Smith. 

Charity lived her formative years in Morenci, and graduated from Morenci Area Schools with the Class of 2007. A free spirit, she then traveled west, settling in Denver, Col., for five years where she worked in a hospital and cared for adults with developmental disabilities. Returning to Michigan, Charity obtained an associate’s degree in graphic design from Jackson College while interning at the Pro Shop in Hudson and working at Grand River Brewery in Jackson as a server. Most recently, she worked as a clerk at Sukhi’s gas station in Hudson, greeting customers with her beautiful smile and personality.

Artistically talented, Charity loved painting on any media and was skilled in making bows and t-shirts, merchandise she was proud to market at area craft shows where she also provided her signature “Gypsii Soul” face painting and mermaid braiding. She also took great pride in her physical fitness routines, especially biking and running, and she adored children. Charity’s beauty and happiness were always present, and she was always engaging in conversation with anyone she encountered, never knowing a stranger.

She is survived by her mother, Christina Stidham-Smith of Hudson; sisters Adrianna (and Troy) Davis of Morenci, Emilee (and Cedric) Kutzley of Morenci, and Lauren (and James) Counts of Adrian; maternal grandmother Jeanne (and Richard) Bohs of Hudson; maternal great-grandmother Donna Bice of Hudson; her “grandma” Joanne Ferguson of Hudson; maternal uncle and aunt Larry (and Ann) Stidham of Hudsonville, Mich.; paternal aunt Lora Holt of Collierville, Tenn.; nieces and nephews Tyler, Keegan and Eli Davis, Letti, Leila and Callen Kutzley, and Jameson and Adalynn Counts; cousins Jacob (and Liv) Stidham, Katheryn (and John) Hall, Hannah (and Tyler) Wagaman and Noah (and Jorja) Stidham; and her best friend Tara Landis of Bryan, Ohio, and her daughters, Veda and Tris.

She was preceded in death by her father Robert Smith; maternal grandfathers Gene Stidham and Lloyd “Buck” Bice; paternal grandparents Harold and Marjorie Smith; and cousin Jenn Campbell.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at Open Door Bible Church in Hudson. A memorial service will begin at 4 p.m. with family friend Pastor John (and Jeannie) Maguire officiating. A meal will follow, with continued fellowship in the church hall.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Elara Caring Hospice.

Arrangements were made with the guidance of the Marry Funeral Home, Hudson.

Tina Louise Taylor, 55, of Fayette, Ohio, died Nov. 13, 2025, at ProMedica Toledo Hospital, surrounded by the family she dedicated her life to.

Tina was born June 18, 1970, to Morris Robbins and Leilah Shaffer in Bryan, Ohio.

Tina was known for her kindness, generosity, and a heart large enough to hold everyone she loved. She built her life around family, finding her greatest joy in the laughter and happiness of her children and grandchildren.

As a nana, she was unmatched – always the first to offer help, the first to encourage, and the first to make sure her grandkids has absolutely everything they needed to feel supported, safe and deeply loved. Her love for them was boundless, and her presence in their lives will remain a guiding light forever. She would never miss a sporting event. Every year, she looked forward to her mother-daughter beach trips, a tradition filled with sun-soaked mornings, quiet conversations, and memories made in the gentle rhythm of the waves.

She proudly worked for CCNO for more than 20 years. Her passion for horses was woven through her life just as strongly as her devotion to her family. She found peace on the trail, riding through open fields and wooded paths with the same sense of freedom and wonder that she brought to everything she did. Her bond with her horses was special and spoke to her gentle spirit, her patience, and her appreciation for the simple, beautiful moments in life.  

Tina is survived by Mark Taylor, her loving partner in all things; children Bryse (and Lindsay) Batt, Dakota (and Stacie) Batt, MacKenzie (and Devin) Seslar, and Nathan Taylor; grandchildren Braiden, Bently, Brody and Brogan Batt, Jazzlynn, Carli, Wanetta, and Ivan Batt, Vinny and Aspyn-Jo Brown, and Lenix, Bailee, Olen and Mylo Seslar; siblings Trish (and Darren) Hogan, Sue (and Jeff) Woolace, Danny (and Sherry) Robbins, Gary (and Jan) Feeney; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Steve, Eugene and LeRoy; and sister Diane.  

Visitation is planned from 2 to 8 p.m.  Wednesday, Nov. 19, at the Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Visitation will resume at 10 a.m. Thursday until the time of service at 11 a.m., at the Family Life Center in Fayette. Pastor Kim Repp will officiate, and interment will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery.

David Scott Creque, 69, of Lyons, Ohio, died Nov. 11, 2025, with his wife and granddaughter at his side.

He was born April 3, 1956, to Virgil and Janet (Bettinger) Creque. On Sept. 11, 1981, he married the love of his life, Julie (Schmitz), and together they built a family filled with laughter, love and countless memories.

Dave was a proud father to four children—Janet (and Cory) Spencer, Scott (and Jenna) Creque, Cory (and Emily) Creque, and Chelsea (and Bradley) Edwards—and a devoted grandfather to nine grandchildren: Chloe Creque and Jim Spencer, Jayden, Clairissa Jo, and Lincoln Creque, Blake, Arya, and Ellie Creque, and August Edwards. His family was his greatest joy and his proudest accomplishment.

A 1974 graduate of Evergreen High School and a 1976 graduate of Owens Community College, Dave dedicated nearly 50 years of his life to agriculture. He worked as an agronomist, crop advisor, and farm center manager for Metamora Elevator Company, The Andersons, Royster Clark, Crop Production Services, Prattville Elevator, and Gold Coast Sales. He was proud to work alongside farmers throughout Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan, offering trusted advice and friendship along the way.

In addition to his professional career, Dave served his community as a volunteer fireman for more than 25 years with the Lyons-Royalton Fire Department and as a 4-H advisor for the Lyons Lucky Leaders. His dedication, generosity and sense of humor made a lasting impact on those around him.

Dave loved gardening—especially planting pumpkins—and helping his granddaughter Chloe with her 4-H hog projects. He was known for surprising his family with new animals, from chickens to goats, and for his endless supply of jokes (even if everyone had heard them before). 

He was proud of his son Scott’s career in NASCAR, loved watching Ohio State football, the Detroit Lions, and the PGA, and enjoyed golfing and bowling with Julie. Whether he was fishing with his son Cory, dancing with his daughter Chelsea, or debating with his daughter Janet (even when he agreed with her), Dave lived life with joy and laughter.

He cherished Canada fishing trips with the Boger boys and Fred Duncan, cooked up Sunday breakfasts while dancing and singing like Elvis, and was always the life of the party—at least until the sun set, earning him the nickname “Daytime Dave.” He had a way of making everyone smile, especially when reminding his nieces and nephews, “I’m Uncle Dave to you!” or yelling "yo baby, yo baby" when you walked in the room.

Above all, Dave taught his children the value of hard work, curiosity and kindness. He believed in lifelong learning and always prayed before family meals that “this food may not only nourish our bodies but also our minds.”

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, children, grandchildren, and siblings — Reid (and Tracey) Creque, Mary (and George) Trembly, Suzanne (and Paul) Thornton, Joseph (and Lisa) Creque, and Paul Creque, as well as his father-in-law, William Schmitz, brothers-in-law Gary (and Shellie Schmitz), Steve (and Lynette) Schmitz, Billy (and Amy) Schmitz, sisters-in-law Cheryl (and Denny) Rowland, Patty (and Doug) Boger, SueAnn (and Kent) Peete, Anja Onken, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his mother-in-law Ramona Schmitz, brother-in-law John Schmitz, and nephew Jarrod Creque.

Visitation is planned from 3 to 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 17, at Weigel Funeral Home in Metamora. Visitation will continue from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Assumption, where a Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11, with Fr. Jeremy Miller presiding.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Lyons-Royalton Fire Department or Fulton County 4-H Endowment Fund.

George Joseph Pochay, Jr., 79, of Lyons, Ohio, died Oct. 31, 2025, at his home. He was born to Vivian Inez (Ayers) and George Joseph Pochay, Sr., in Lyons, Ohio.

George retired after many years as a machinist at Tecumseh Products. Outside of work, he was a man of simple tastes and genuine character—he lived life on his own terms. He made his home in a rustic cabin surrounded by the nature he loved—fields, woods and wildlife. He had a deep appreciation for the natural world and preferred to let his land grow wild, believing that every creature had its place.

An avid hunter of arrowheads and Indian artifacts, he built an impressive collection over the years. For him, the search was as meaningful as the find—a quiet connection to the past. After a good find, he would say, “Look what God and the Indians gave me today.” He was patient in the fields and when fishing or hunting for morel mushrooms—though perhaps not always so patient elsewhere.

George loved his family and friends, and above all, he loved a good time. Prone to extremes, if you made him laugh, he was generous, kind, and loyal—but if you upset him, there was no chance you’d miss the signs. Fun-loving and always social, George enjoyed going to town, having lunch or a drink, and sharing good conversation with friends. He will be remembered for his one-of-a-kind personality and for living life his own way.

In his younger years, he loved rock ’n’ roll and the freedom of the open road in his GTO. In later years, he found joy in simple routines—his daily trip to the local bar for lunch, a few beers, and conversation or a card game with friends. He valued honesty, friendship and independence, living every day in a way that was true to himself.

He will be remembered as a proud father, a loyal friend, and a man with a big heart who smiled with his soul.

George is survived by his loving daughters, Tonia (and Gene) Wallace and Alaina (and James) Holmes; honorary son Gabriel (and Mollie) Holdridge; grandchildren Brittan (and Shelby) Tolford, Garett (and Kenzie) Holmes, Mitchell Holmes, and Joe Holmes; brother Philip (and Ellen) Pochay; and sister Ann Barber.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved son, George J. “Georgie” Pochay, III.

Visitation is planned from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6, at Weigel Funeral Home in Metamora, Ohio. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 7, in the funeral home, with Pastor Mike Tipton officiating.

George could always be seen in a T-shirt, flannel and jeans. In his honor, the family invites you to come as you are—in your favorite, most comfortable attire.

Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Helen Louise Scott, 95, of Fayette, Ohio, died Nov. 2, 2025, at Fulton Manor in Wauseon, Ohio.

She was born in Tazwell County, Va., on May 2, 1930, the daughter of Robert and Clara (Neal) Asbury. On Nov. 14, 1979, in Lebanon, Va., she married the love of her life, Charles C. Scott. They enjoyed more than 40 years of memories prior to his passing Aug. 26, 2008.

Helen enjoyed shopping and watching television in her later years. She also enjoyed crocheting and reading. Helen had a spunky personality and was never afraid to speak her mind.  Nothing brought her more joy than being in the company of her beloved family, especially her grandchildren.

Helen is survived are three daughters, Phyllis Smith of West Unity, Ohio, Brenda (and Emmerson) Branham of Potosi, Mo., Barb Staffey of Bryan, Ohio; a son, Rodger Lawson of West Unity, Ohio; step-daughters Drema Contreras of Napoleon,  Ohio, Kathy (and Ray) Courson of Virginia, Debbie (and Howard) Spragg of Florida; Tammy Amos of Florida; grandchildren Tammy Sandy, Tracy Champ, Billie (and Brian) Miller, LeeAnn (and Chris) Saaf, Jeff (and Karyn Swietzer) Lawson, Michael (and Sandy Shirkey) Denton, Ginny (and Dan) Bleikamp, Michelle (and Jake) Wasson, Barbara (and Ryan Goebel) Miller, Aaron (and Brandy) Branham, and Renee (and Josh) Fackler; 33 great-grandchildren; and 18 great-great-grandchildren. 

In addition to her parents and husband, Helen was preceded in death by two sisters, Mae and Beatrice; a brother, Raymond “Junior”; a step-daughter, Robin Scott; a great-granddaughter, Jennavieve Ebersole; a daughter-in-law, Debbie Lawson; and a son-in-law, Don Staffey.

Visitation is planned from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9, at Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 10, at the funeral home, with Rev. Dr. Samuel Wickard officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette. 

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

Richard “Dick” Gallup, a devoted life-long farmer, husband, father, grandfather and friend, died in his home Oct. 28, 2025, with his family at his bedside.

Dick was born Sept. 26, 1936, in Morenci, Mich., to Ray and Robena (Carpenter) Gallup. Dick married Donna May Eisel on Jan. 9, 1960. She preceded him in death on Jan. 31, 2011. On Nov. 24, 2012, he married Marie “Maggie” Eisel. She preceded him in death on Oct. 12, 2025.

Dick’s life was marked by a deep commitment to family and his passion for farming. He was a self-taught man who grew up and lived his entire life in a two-mile radius of Lyons, Ohio. Dick graduated from Lyons High School in 1954 and his many “degrees” come from the school of hard knocks. Dick traveled extensively, making friends and learning from farmers not just in the United States, but throughout the world.

He was an active member of Holy Trinity Community Parish.

Dick was a community leader and role model by the example he set. He believed in hard work, education, innovation and calm strength. He was known as an honest man full of kindness and integrity.  He loved his family. He loved the land. He respected the gifts of the Lord.

Dick is survived by his children Gary (and Laura) Gallup, Barbara (and Roy) Kunkle, Linda Gallup, Sharon Gallup (and Ken Ernandes), and Amy (and Joe) Frasier; his grandchildren Kate (and Wes) Kramer, Mitch (and Mary) Gallup, Jessie (and Dan) Marolis, Glen Kunkle, Dillon Kunkle, Elizabeth (and Matthew) Gainey, Logan Frasier, and Dalton Frasier; great-grandchildren Blake and Miles Kramer, Madison and Vivian Kunkle, Hayden and Landon Marolis, and Baby Gainey.

He also enjoyed time spent with Mag’s children, Deb (and Mark) Dye, Al (and Lori) Geiser, Kelli (and Michael) Worthington, and Brad (and Marcia) Geiser; and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Richard was preceded in death by his first wife of 51 years, Donna May Gallup; his second wife of 12 years, Mag Gallup; his parents Ray and Robena Gallup; sisters Shirley Arnold and Juanita LeFever; and his brother Howard Gallup.

Visitation is planned from 10 to 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 3, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Assumption, where a Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m., with Father Jeremy Miller presiding. Following a funeral luncheon at the Parish Life Center, a gravesite service, with Military Rites, will begin at 2 p.m. at Lyons cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Holy Trinity Church, 2649 US Highway 20, Swanton, OH 43558 or to the Lyons Royalton Fire Department, 409 W. Morenci St., Lyons, OH 43533.

Lola Sue Wilson, 89, of Morenci, Mich., died at her home Oct. 29, 2025, while under the care of Elara Caring Hospice. 

She was born Jan. 24, 1936, in Morenci, the daughter of Wells and Lola Bertha (Cody-Langford) Collar. 

Lola was a 1953 graduate of Morenci High School and was a lifelong Morenci resident. She married Charles Donald Wilson in Angola, Ind., on Dec. 20, 1953. Together they raised a family of three children and enjoyed 55 years as husband and wife prior to his passing on May 22, 2009.

She worked at various jobs in restaurants, factories, and Rick’s Family Food Center, as well as Betty’s Cake Decorating. Lola retired in 2001 after nearly 13 years at Lenawee Christian Family Center in Adrian, and later again from Lenawee Christian School in 2007 where she worked in the cafeteria.

Lola is survived by daughters Jo Rea (and Jerry) Keene of Morenci and Connie Mirelez of Morenci; son Donald Alan (and Jessica) of Wyoming, Mich.; grandchildren Jeremy (and Melissa) Keene, Joshua (and Heidi) Keene, Nathan Mirelez, Deborah Mirelez (and Tyler O’Neil), Jessica Mirelez, Gideon Wilson, Greyden Wilson and Nora Wilson; and several great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, Lola was preceded in death by a daughter, Linda Sue, in infancy; a sister, Anna Ruth Collar; twin brothers in infancy, Clyde and Claire Collar; brothers Roy, Wells, Ted and Doyle Collar; half-brothers Thomas and Charles Langford and Clarence Collar; and half-sisters Iva Emerick and Amy Trumbul.

Visitation is planned from 11 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4, until the 1 p.m. funeral service at Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Pastor Bruce Jewett will officiate. Private burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Morenci Fire and Rescue.

Rick E. Mepham, 63, of Morenci, Mich., died in his home Oct. 27, 2025.

He was born Oct. 12, 1962, in Adrian, Mich., to Roger and Beverly (Borton) Mepham. On June 30, 1984, Rick married Karen Whipple in Adrian, and she survives.

For many years Rick was an employee at Tecumseh Products, where he worked as a security guard until the company ceased operations in 2008. A true outdoorsman at heart, Rick found peace and joy in the woods. He was an enthusiastic hunter and an avid collector, with a particular interest in the lore of Bigfoot, which spoke to his adventurous spirit and curiosity about the unknown.

Rick is survived by his wife, Karen; children Erik (and Jenna) Mepham and Kalie Mepham; two grandchildren, Trey and Taylor Mepham; seven of his closest siblings Roger Mepham, Kelly Miller, Kim Meadows, Judy Brockway, Karen Mitchell, Debbie Howard and Karen Wilks; as well as many other siblings.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Ed Scott, Steve Studnicka, Joyce Pawson and Cheryl Preston; and nephew Stevie Studnicka.

Visitation is planned from 1 to 3 and 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, at Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 31. Burial will immediately follow at Porter Cemetery, Seneca.

Linda Lou Smith-Wagner, 81, of rural Fayette, Ohio, died Oct. 22, 2025, at Fulton County Health Center in Wauseon, Ohio.

She was born July 9, 1944, in Fayette, one of six children from the union of Ray and Twila (Brink) Link. 

Linda was a longtime employee of Fayette Tubular Products until its closure, and then worked at Lear Corporation in Wauseon. In her spare time she enjoyed painting by numbers and vegetable gardening. Camping was a favorite pastime for Linda, and she took great pride and pleasure in her permanent site at Green Valley Campground in Morenci, Mich.

Linda was known as a devoted and selfless caregiver for many of her family members over the past few decades, and she always put the needs of others ahead of her own.

On Sept. 8, 1990, Linda married Carver “Junior” Wagner. They enjoyed 28 years of companionship and memories prior to his death Oct. 20, 2018.

She is survived by children Tim (and Sue) Smith of Manitou Beach, Mich., Tamara Griffiths of Fayette, Todd Smith of Fayette, and Shawn (and Kellie) Smith of Wauseon, Michael Wagner of Archbold,  Ohio, Diane (and Carmen) Molitierno of Morenci; sister Patricia Valentine of Coconut Creek, Fla.; 19 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in her death by two brothers, Lyle and Ralph Link; and two sisters, Shirley Harter and Imogene Cowgill.

Visitation is planned from 4 to 6 p.m.  Wednesday, Oct. 29, at Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Private interment will take place in the Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Fayette Volunteer Fire Department Association.

William “Bill” R. Pierce, 54, of Clayton,  Mich., died Oct. 19, 2025, at his residence.

He was born March 18, 1971, in Tampa, Fla., to Robert D. and Marsha E. (Clark) Pierce. After graduating from Eaton Rapids High School, Bill entered the United States Army, serving his country during Operation Desert Storm, from November 1990 until September 1994. Upon his return, he attended Jackson Community College, attaining an associate of arts degree. On Nov. 30, 1996, he married Susan R. Vershum in Metamora, Ohio, and she survives.

Bill’s family and friends were everything to him. He was always one to make people laugh and would do anything he could for anyone. Bill was a certified welder until he was diagnosed with a service-related illness that forced him into 100% disability. In his free time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, frogging, and listening to heavy metal music. When he wasn’t 4-wheeling, you could find him on his farm doing odd projects with his dogs by his side.

He is survived by his wife of almost 30 years, Susan; son Wesley Pierce; daughters Abby Pierce (and Wyatt Berger) and Chelsea Pierce; mother Marsha Pierce; sister Amanda Pierce; brothers-in-law Lynn (and Jodi) and Scott (and Heather) Vershum; sister-in-law Michele (and Allan) Gladieux; nieces Madi Vershum, Lyndsay Gladieux (and Jacob Conklin), Kelsey Vershum, and Ella Pierce; and nephews CJ Gladieux (and Samantha Fernholz), Sawyer (and Jaelyn) Vershum; Joey (and Sydnee) Vershum, and Brady Vershum.

He was preceded  in death is his father Robert “RD” Pierce; grandparents Grace Pierce, Daniel Pierce, Roxy Hansen, Robert Clark, Harold Waterbury, and Martha Waterbury; aunts Nancy Jordan and Ginger Maddox; and uncles Jim Pierce, Jimmy Clark and Danny Clark.

Visitation is planned from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22, at Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Memorial services will begin at 6 p.m. with Bill’s uncle, John Maddox, officiating.

Memorial donations are suggested to Clayton Fire Department or Mott Children’s Hospital.

Marie “Maggie” (Eisel) Gallup, 87, of Lyons, Ohio, died Oct. 12, 2025, at Defiance Inpatient Hospice Center, surrounded by her family.

She was born March 12, 1938, the daughter of Leo P. and Rosella C. (Miller) Eisel in Berkey, Ohio, where she grew up on the family’s farm. Maggie graduated from Metamora High School in 1956 and on Oct. 11, 1958, she married David Geiser. Together they raised their four children in Bridgewater Township until David’s passing in 1974. On Nov. 24, 2012, she married Richard Gallup at Holy Trinity Catholic Parish in Swanton, Ohio, and he survives.

Maggie was employed at the Williams County Auditor's office, held the title of a farmer’s wife and worked for numerous other places throughout her life. She was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Parish in Swanton and the Montpelier Moose. Maggie enjoyed traveling, playing cards, helping and doing for others and most importantly spending time with her family and planning get-togethers. She also enjoyed spending the last several winters of her life vacationing in Florida.

Maggie is survived by her husband, Richard “Dick” Gallup; four children, Deb (and Mark) Dye, Al (and Lori) Geiser, Kelli (and Michael) Worthington and Brad (and Marcia) Geiser; nine grandchildren, Heather (and Steve) Mendez, Dexter Dye, Derek (and Raegan) Dye, Nicole (and Jake) Borton, Alli (and Marcus) Newell, Brooklyne Worthington, Hailey Worthington, Brandon (and Bayli) Geiser and Kaleb Geiser; 17 great-grandchildren; five stepchildren, Gary (and Laura) Gallup, Barbara (and Roy) Kunkle, Linda Gallup, Sharon (and Ken) Gallup and Amy (and Joe) Frasier; eight step-grandchildren, Kate (and Wes) Kramer, Mitch (and Mary) Gallup, Glen and Dillon Kunkle, Jessie (and Dan) Marolis, Elizabeth (and Matthew) Gainey and Logan and Dalton Fraiser; four siblings, Rose and Carol Glecker, Alice (and Larry) Mack and Orville “Butch” (and Peggy) Eisel; and two sisters-in-law, Joyce Eisel and Lela (and Mahlon) Glenn.

She was preceded in death by her parents; first husband, David Geiser; and six siblings, Donna Gallup, Rita Lumbrezer, Louella, Jim, Leon and Charles Eisel and Helen Grime.

Visitation is planned from 5 to 7 p.m.  Wednesday, Oct. 15, at Thompson Funeral Home in Montpelier, Ohio. A Funeral Mass will begin at 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, at Holy Trinity Catholic Parish, Swanton, Ohio, with Father Jeremy Miller officiating. The family will also receive friends for one hour prior to mass. Maggie will be laid to rest privately at Riverside Cemetery in Montpelier. 

Memorial donations are suggested to Defiance Inpatient Hospice or Holy Trinity Catholic Parish.

Wanda Jane Kruse, 91, of Morenci,  Mich., died Oct. 10, 2025, surrounded by her loving family, at Hampton Manor in Adrian, Mich., under the care of Optimal Care Hospice.

She was born in Morenci on May 2, 1934, to Clyde McCoy and Sylvia Christeen (Livingston) Hall. Wanda graduated from Morenci High School. On April 7, 1956, she married Carl H. “Shady” Kruse in Morenci, and he preceded her in death on July 1, 2019.

She owned Morenci Bookkeeping and Tax Service until 1985, at which time she went back to school for nursing, obtaining an LPN License. Wanda worked for Dr. Magbanua in Waldron and Dr. Shetty in Morenci until her retirement.  

The love of Wanda’s life was her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was an avid bowler for more than 30 years, coached summer softball, and was instrumental in forming the women’s softball league in Morenci.  As a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Morenci, she also led the Pioneer Girls at church.

She is survived by children Timothy (and Julie) Kruse, Karla (and Edward) Bowen, and Deborah (and Matthew) Jacobs; grandchildren Kyle, Travis, Valerie, Landan, Kaitlyn, Jodi, Joe and JP; seven great-grandchildren; and a sister-in-law, Betty Jean Hall.

Along with her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by brothers Robert (and Shirley) Hall, Roy Lee (and Fern) Hall, and Ray Hall.

Visitation is planned from noon until the  2 p.m. service at Marry Funeral Home – Morenci Chapel, on Wednesday, Oct. 15.  Rev. William VanValkenburg will officiate, and interment will be in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.  

Memorial donations are suggested to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Trinity Lutheran Church in Morenci.

Barbara Snyder, 57, of Morenci, Mich., died Oct. 2, 2025, at Hospice of Lenawee, surrounded by her family.

She was born March 9, 1968, in Taylor, Mich., the daughter of Leslie Jr. and Rose (Sauers) Landwehr. On March 8, 1992, she married Louis Snyder, Jr., in Adrian, Mich., and he survives.

In addition to her husband Louis, she is survived by her daughters Sasha (and Lucky, Jr.) Mangus and Samantha Snyder; grandchildren Emma, Jayden and Wyatt; siblings Ann Thomas, Shirley (and David) Vandenbussche, Robert (and Virginia) Landwehr, Debbie Adams and Mary (and Jack) Murrey; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Gerald “Jerry” Landwehr and brother-in-law Paul Adams.

Cremation will take place and a celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee.

Arrangements were made with Purse Funeral Home.

Clifford Walter Brown, 90, of Fayette, Ohio, died at home Sept. 16, 2025, surrounded by family.

He was born Nov. 14, 1934, to Kenneth and Laura (Pierce) Brown of Toledo, Ohio. 

Clifford grew up in Toledo and Delta and attended Delta High School. His early jobs included farm work, fencing installation, HVAC, and other related general construction work.

He spent many years as a precision machinist at Johnson Machinery in Toledo before going to work at Fulton Industries, from which he retired in 2001.

Clifford married Mary Jane Crawford on July 17, 1971, and she passed away on April 18, 2018. She was the love of his life for 47 years.

Clifford was known for his work ethic, his sense of humor, and the many jokes and stories he told. He was also known for collecting and handcrafting wind chimes which are heard gently ringing throughout northwest Ohio, and as far away as Virginia, Florida, and even Germany.

Together with Mary Jane and their family, he enjoyed gardening, camping and garage sales. His children and grandchildren will remember him for the many “treasures” he found for them over the years during his Thursday garage sale excursions.

Clifford is survived by children Cynthia (and Mark) Patterson of Delta, Ohio, Annette (and Wade) Burbage of Bonneau, S.C., Jennifer (and Orin) Prosser of Napoleon, Ohio, Mark Brown of Hudson, Mich., Linda Cassady of Napoleon, Jake (and Mary Jo) Brown of Louisville, Ky., Scott (and Lori) Brown of Wauseon, Jonathan (and Brooke) Brown of Toledo, Melody Brown of Fayette, Lynn Moden of Bryan, Ohio, and Juston Brown of Fayette; 25 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents and wife, Clifford was preceded in death by siblings Kenneth “Budd” Brown, Donna Ballin, Barbara Smith, Robert Brown, Patricia Altman, David Brown and Katherine Widener.

Clifford will be interred at Lake Park Cemetery in Youngstown, Ohio. A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date.

Arrangements are being handled by Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home in Wauseon.

Leora Jean Oberling, 97, of Morenci,  Mich., died Sept. 14, 2025, at Lenawee Medical Care Facility, under the care of Hospice of Lenawee. 

She was born Oct. 26, 1927, in Munson, Mich., to Leonard Wollet and Emma Boyer. She married Ralph Edward Clark on Jan. 20, 1950, and later Melvin Oberling. Both preceded her in death.  

A 1943 graduate of Gorham-Fayette High School, Jean owned Hudson Fabricators until she was 50 years old. She then worked at Morenci Fabricare until she was 84. She loved cooking and baking for her family, as well as reading and taking occasional trips to the casino.

 Jean is survived by son Walter “Butch” (and Michelle) Clark; daughters Denise (and Lyle) Rogers and Darlene (and John) Woodard; sister Beverly (and Dave) Neiland; and son-in-law Wilburn “Bill” Smith; nine grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchild. 

In addition to her parents and husbands, she was preceded in death by  son Ricky Barden; daughter Deborah Smith; granddaughter Hilary Shaffer; grandson Joel Valentine; sisters Wanda Rupp, Vicki Lindsey and Betty Shaffer; and brother Leonard “Abe” Wollet.

 Visitation is planned from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Sept. 22, at Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m., also at the funeral home, with Rev. William VanValkenburg officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery.

 Memorial donations are suggested to  Hospice of Lenawee.  

Russell K. Tompkins, 83, of Morenci, Mich., died Sept. 11, 2025. 

Born Jan. 27, 1942, at his family’s farmhouse in Iowa, Russ entered the world on a snowy winter day. His father had set out with a team of horses and a wagon to fetch the doctor, battling deep snow along the dirt roads. When the doctor asked how far apart his wife’s contractions were and heard “only three minutes,” he urged Russ’s father to “put some leather to those horses!”

Growing up on the farm, Russ spent his youth riding and working with horses. He didn’t learn to ride a bicycle until college, having spent far more time in the saddle than on two wheels. In high school, he played both offense and defense on the football team throughout all four years. After graduation, Russ enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he earned recognition as a sharpshooter and received medical corpsman training before serving in Germany.

Upon returning home, Russ enrolled in college in Minnesota, where on his very first date he met the love of his life, Cinny, who later became his “favorite wife.” They went on to share 60 wonderful years of marriage. Russ later completed his bachelor’s degree at the University of Toledo and began a long and fulfilling career in healthcare, retiring from St. Vincent Hospital in Toledo. After relocating to Morenci 45 years ago, he continued his work at Morenci and Herrick hospitals.

Russ had a deep love for horses and community. He served with the Lenawee County Sheriff’s Mounted Division and the Reserve Officers of the Sheriff’s Department. He was also an active member of the First Congregational Church of Morenci, American Legion Post 268 (serving as chaplain and treasurer), Morenci Kiwanis (past president), and the Eagles #1297. He was a proud supporter of Morenci schools, serving as a mentor and faithfully raising the American flag before every home football game. 

Through Kiwanis, he helped with countless community events, and he personally collected donated ponytails from local salons to send to Children With Hair Loss, where they were made into wigs for children battling cancer. In 2005, with his family’s blessing, Russ spent Christmas and New Year’s volunteering with the Salvation Army in New Orleans, helping families who had lost everything.

Russ had a passion for woodworking, building much of the woodwork in his own home, including the fireplace mantel, and working alongside Dick Kelly to build Rex Riley benches. He also loved photography—his first published photo, of a groundhog, appeared in the Toledo Blade for Groundhog Day in 1973. He went on to do professional wedding photography as well.

Russ often said to Cinny, “How did we get so lucky to have such great kids and grandkids?” His greatest pride was his family. He will be remembered for his generosity and devotion to his community, and his unwavering love of family.

He is survived by his favorite wife, Cynthia (Cinny); daughters Diana (and Matthew) and Katherine (and Timothy); grandchildren Kyle, Sam (and Olivia), Sarah, Benjamin and Scott; sister Sharon (and Dan) McKinney; sister-in-law Bette; and several beloved nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Eva; daughter Suzette; brothers Larry and Denny; brother-in-law John; son-in-law Danny; parents-in-law John and Viola; and nephew Steven.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 5 p.m.  Sunday, Sept. 14, at Marry Funeral Home - Morenci Chapel. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 15, at Morenci First Congregational Church, with Pastor Greg Morrison officiating.  

Interment, with military honors accorded by the Morenci American Legion, will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery.

Ruth Ann (Walter) Hilton, 81, of Morenci, Mich., died Sept. 7, 2025, at her home, surrounded by her family and under the care of Hospice of Lenawee.

Born March 26, 1944, at Detwiler Hospital in Wauseon, Ohio, Ruth was the daughter of Margaret (Jewell) and Howard “Buss” Walter. She married Roger A. Hilton on Sept. 28, 1962, at United Methodist Church in Weston, Mich. Ruth is survived by her loving husband of 63 years.

Ruth enjoyed crocheting and keeping her home spotless. She also loved taking care of her houseplants. She was a 1963 graduate of Ai School. Ruth worked at the former Fayette Tubular Products until it closed, making many lasting friendships.

In addition to her husband, Ruth is survived by children Patty Hilton, Chris Hilton, Tim Hilton of Morenci and Pam Hilton and Cindy (and Brian) Reynolds of Reading, Mich.; grandchildren Lindsey, Traci, Erik, Josh, Kristy, Rebecca, Hanna, Zaylee, Adrianna and Dakota; 20 great-grandchildren; sister Linda Hilton; brother Jim Water; son-in-law Tim Rosebrook; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter Jodi Rosebrook; and granddaughter Shanda (Rosebrook) Gruber.

Cremation will take place and a memorial luncheon will be announced at a later date.

Arrangements were made with Marry Funeral Home, Morenci.

Jeffrey L. Figy, 73, of Fayette, Ohio, died Sept. 7, 2025, at Fulton County Health Center in Wauseon, Ohio, after a courageous and long-fought battle with cancer.

He was born Feb. 22, 1952, in Wauseon, the second of three sons from the union of Fred and Bernette (Nofzinger) Figy, Sr. Jeff was a 1970 graduate of Wauseon High School.

He married the former Nancy Jean Miller on April 15, 1986, in Wauseon, and was welcomed as a loving father to her three children. They later had two daughters and shared 36 years together before her passing on Oct. 6, 2022.

Jeff was a faithful 47-year employee of M.E. Miller Tire Company in Wauseon, where he sold and delivered tires. He was a member of the Fayette Church of the Nazarene as well as the Wauseon Sons of the American Legion.

Having a lifelong passion for racing, he was active at Oakshade Raceway, and he participated in area derbies and swap meets. A lover of the outdoors, he also enjoyed hunting and fishing. Jeff loved finding good purchases at area estate sales and auctions. He was eager to talk to anyone he encountered, and enjoyed social events, especially going out to eat with his beloved wife Nancy. A devoted father, Jeff never missed a sporting event or activity of one of his children and later grandchildren.

Surviving are his children Stephenie (and John) Wentworth of Liberty Center, Ohio, Spencer (and Heather) Lester of Fayette, Shawn Lester (and Kimberly Livingston) of Fayette, Jenna (and Andrew) Beaverson of Fayette, Haley Bentley of Archbold, Ohio; brothers Fred (and Jan) Figy of Holland, Ohio, and Van (and Kathy) Figy of Wauseon; grandchildren Trey Homan, Tayah Homan, Brittani Schroeder, Branden Wentworth, Paige Wentworth, Sierra Lester, Spencer Lester, Jr., Skylar Lester, Seth Lester, Shawna Lester, Jermaine Livingston, Connor Wesley, Makenna Beaverson, Mika Beaverson, Gunther Bentley and Rutley Bentley; and great-grandson Sutton Lester. 

Visitation is planned from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, at Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Friday at the funeral home with Pastor Andy Reynard officiating. Following, he will be laid to rest next to his wife at Wauseon Union Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to Fayette Church of the Nazarene or Wauseon Sons of the American Legion.

Roger K. Emmons, 86, of Morenci, Mich., died Aug. 25, 2025, at St. Vincent Mercy Medical Center in Toledo.

Roger was born Oct. 12, 1938, in Chesterfield Township, Ohio, to Kenneth W. and Leah M. (Sell) Emmons. He attended and graduated from Morenci High School in 1956, and in November of the same year, entered the Army National Guard. In 1961, he was called to active duty in the United States Army. He then returned to the Army National Guard, being honorably discharged in 1962. 

Roger loved farming and was an active farmer his entire life. He also worked at Morenci Rubber Products until its closing, then worked at Bohn Aluminum until his retirement in 2010. On Dec. 20, 1958, he married Patricia Mary Ann Beach in Morenci, and she preceded him in death on Sept. 3, 2018.

Roger’s entire world revolved around his children and grandchildren, and he was a very dedicated family man. He attended every sporting event his children and grandchildren were in, only missing if he had to attend an American Legion post meeting. An all-around sports fan, he never missed an opportunity to support his favorite teams – the Morenci Bulldogs, the Detroit Lions, and he was the number one fan of the Michigan State Spartans. 

Roger was an avid bowler until 2024 He also loved to hunt deer and fish with his grandchildren, was active in 4-H, and was on the color guard for all Sand Creek football games. He was a member of the Adrian American Legion Post 275, where he was commander for four years and adjunct for 17 years, the Morenci Sportsman’s Club, serving as trustee for many years, and Jasper Bible Church.

His family describes him as a soft-spoken, selfless and compassionate man who would help anyone who needed it.

Roger is survived by children Tammie Reasoner, Terrie Whitehead, Robyn (and Michael) Taylor, and Bill (and Karla) Emmons; 20 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; sisters Rosemary Chisholm and Joyce Garwood; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to  his parents and wife, Roger was preceded in death by granddaughters Danielle and Lesley; great-grandson Izaiah; brothers Bruce and Leland Emmons; and sisters Bertha Emmons and Marjorie Kintner.

Visitation is planned from 1 to 3 and 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29, at Anderson-Marry Funeral Home in Adrian. Visitation will resume at 10 a.m. Saturday at Jasper Bible Church, where funeral services will start at 11 a.m. Pastor Bruce Jewett will officiate. Interment with military honors will follow in Ridgeville Cemetery.

Memorial donations are suggested to Jasper Bible Church, Morenci Sportsman’s Club, or to the family for future designation.

The Anderson-Marry Funeral Home in Adrian is assisting the family with arrangements.

Scott Phillip Bachman, 43, of Morenci,  Mich., died Aug. 25, 2025, at his residence.

He was born April 20, 1982, in Adrian, Mich., to James P. and Peggy S. (Scott) Bachman. Scott attended and graduated from Morenci Area High School in 2000, and then furthered his education by earning an associate’s degree in business from Jackson Community College. On Sept. 24, 2005, he married Susan M. Gingerich in Hillsdale, and she survives.

Scott was the proud owner of Bachman Kennels, breeding nationally recognized dogs, such as basset hounds and beagles. He was a member of the American Kennel Club, the National Kennel Club, and the United Kennel Club, winning numerous awards and ribbons. He has sold dogs to people in 48 of the 50 states, and also to many notable people throughout his career.

Scott was very proud of his family and loved spending time with his boys. He never missed an opportunity to shoot hoops with his boys and their many friends or attend any of his kids’ sporting events. His family members were not the only people who benefitted from his kindness and generosity. Scott was always willing to extend a hand to anyone. Always having the best intentions for everyone, Scott loved to take kids under his wing–coaching them in sports or life in general. He loved to “build them up” and watch them grow into strong, caring individuals. He was also a very big supporter of the Hudson and Morenci communities.

In his free time, Scott greatly loved fishing, hunting, and most of all, spending time with his family and friends.

Scott is survived by his wife of nearly 20 years, Susan; sons Thomas, Cameron, Noah and Kolt; parents James and Peggy; brother Clayton (and Joanna) and their son Bentley; grandmother Carol Bachman; father-in-law Melvin (and Belinda) Gingerich; brothers- and sisters-in-law Tammy (and Tim) Van Haitsma, Don (and Renee) Brunette, Kim (and Todd) Barnette, Danny (and Kimberly) Brunette, Chip (and Merissa) Gingerich, Todd (and Sarah) Gingerich, and Kirk (and Leslie) Gingerich; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather James Bachman; maternal grandparents Robert and Pauline Scott; and mother-in-law Karen Gingerich.

Visitation is planned from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 2, at Morenci Church of the Nazarene. Funeral services will immediately follow, with Jason Bryant officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

Memorial donations are suggested to Susan Bachman to benefit Scott’s sons’ future plans.

The Marry Funeral Home – Morenci Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

George Roberson Kuykendall, 95, formerly of Morenci and Temperance, died Aug. 23, 2025, at Drews Place at Village Green in Hillsdale, Mich.

He was born July 12, 1930, in Brooksville, Fla., to James and Lena (Leggett) Kuykendall.

George proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He enlisted in 1947 and moved up in rank to Master Sergeant. He was awarded a Purple Heart, the Combat Infantryman’s Badge, and the Korean Service Medal with two Bronze Stars before his honorable discharge in 1954.

After retirement from Morenci Super Valu, he and Joan spent winters in Florida and summers at Green Valley Campground in Morenci. Together, they enjoyed fishing and traveling with family. While In Florida, George volunteered in the Inverness American Legion Honor Guard.

George spent his last year living with his granddaughter Skylar and enjoying the company of his great-grandson Gavien. 

George is survived by daughters Donna (and Tom) Hecht, Kathy Blonde, Evelyn (and Richard) Barve; sons Randy (and Sue) Clement and Mark (and Marty) Clement; 12 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in his death by his wife, Joan (Burns) Kuykendall; daughter Shirley Zieler; siblings Marie Marek, Gladys Bowles, Billy Kuykendall, Wilma Parker and Leon Kuykendall.

A graveside memorial service will begin at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 15, at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci. A celebration of his life will follow at the Morenci American Legion Post 368.

Memorial contributions are suggested to support the Morenci American Legion Post 368.

Arrangements were made with Marry Funeral Home, Morenci.

Calvin J. “Boomer” Rice, 84, of Fayette,  Ohio, died at his home Aug. 24, 2025, under the care of Parrish Hospice while surrounded by his loved ones. He was born July 3, 1941, in Wauseon, Ohio, the son of Emerson and Mary (Martin) Rice. 

Boomer was a 1960 graduate of Gorham-Fayette High School, and a lifelong resident of Fayette. He married the former Joan Marie Lumbrezer on Dec. 18, 1966, also in Fayette. Together, they raised two children and shared more than 58 years of loving companionship as husband and wife.

Starting out, Boomer worked for his father’s local business, Emerson Rice Movers, relocating building structures and large equipment. In addition to farming, he later worked for Freddy Armstrong, Fayette Grain & Feed, and Fayette Tubular Products. He finished his working career employed in maintenance with Gorham Township for 20 years prior to his retirement in 2012. Boomer dedicated himself to his community as a 57-year member of the Fayette Fire Department.

A lover of the outdoors, Boomer enjoyed hunting deer and rabbit, camping, tinkering, riding his tractor or golf cart, and taking care of the lawn. Each year, Boomer and Joan greatly anticipated their camping stay at the Fulton County Fair.  Boomer lovingly supported his family in everything they did. His quiet yet witty presence will be missed by many.

Surviving in addition to his wife, Joan, is son Ron (and Karen) Rice of Archbold, Ohio; daughter Robin (and Adam) Richardson of Morenci, Mich.; sister Carolyn (and Weldon) Joughin of Adrian, Mich.; grandchildren Colin (and Chelsey) Richardson, Phoenix Richardson (and Jared Wagner), Dinah Rice and TJ Rice;  great-granddaughter Sutton Bea Richardson; and siblings-in-law Donna Rice, Ruth Mika, Bill and Judi Lumbrezer, and Ginger Lumbrezer.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brother Charles “Bill” Rice; brothers-in-law William “Bill” McGhee, Charlie Mika, and Richard “Chick” Lumbrezer; and nephew Darrel Joughin.

Visitation is planned from 3 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 27, at the Family Life Center in Fayette. A memorial service will begin 11 a.m. Thursday at the Family Life Center, with Pastor Kim Repp officiating. Inurnment will take place in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to benefit the Fayette Volunteer Fire Association.

Arrangements have been made with the Marry Funeral Home, Fayette.

Janet P. “Jan” Shadbolt, 76, of Bryan, Ohio, died Aug. 14, 2025, at Community Health Professionals Inpatient Hospice Center, Defiance, Ohio.

Jan was born Aug. 26, 1948, in Hudson, Mich., daughter of Vernon and Donna (Stump) Brown. She attended Addison High School. Jan first met Harold D. “Pete” Shadbolt at a Halloween hayride in 1963, and they were united in marriage Oct. 10, 1964.

She worked at Fayette Tubular Products for more than 26 years, retiring in 2000. Jan attended the Church of the Nazarene in Wauseon, Ohio. She enjoyed attending school and sporting events of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, playing Bingo with Pete and their friends at the American Legion Post 202 in Butler, Ind., and baking, with Texas sheet cake being a family favorite.

In addition to Pete, her husband of more than 60 years, of Bryan, Jan is survived by daughter Kim (and Bill) Gett of Lucernemines, Pa.; grandchildren Amber (and Tim) Vincent of Wauseon, Brandi (and Jason) Sharrock of Morenci, Mich., Jacob Snyder of Morenci, Dugan Shadbolt of Georgia, and Peyten (and Sydney) Shadbolt of Wooster, Ohio; nine great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law Christy Shadbolt of Wauseon; son-in-law Michael Synder of Morenci; and siblings Glenn (and Karen) Brown of Harrison, Mich., and Edna (and Tom) Mahan of Dubuque, Iowa.

Jan was preceded in death by her parents; son Mark Shadbolt; daughter Cherie Snyder; and three siblings.

Jan requested no public visitation or services at this time. 

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

Arrangements were made with Oberlin-Turnbull Funeral Home of Bryan.

Gary L. Brink, 79, of Wauseon, Ohio, died Aug. 13, 2025, at ProMedica Toledo Hospital.

He was born June 17, 1946, in Morenci, Mich., but was raised in Fulton County Ohio, the son of Jack and Ola (Belknap) Brink.

Gary graduated from Chesterfield High School with the Class of 1964. He was salutatorian of his class and played basketball and baseball and was involved in the high school choir.

Gary earned a bachelor’s degree from Adrian College and a master’s degree in mathematics from Eastern Michigan University. He was employed by Blissfield Community Schools for 40 years where he taught high school math, coached boys and girls junior varsity and varsity basketball, boys and girls cross country and served as athletic director for four years. He also taught driver’s education for 34 years. In 2009 he was inducted into the Blissfield High School Athletic Hall of Fame.

In 1967 Gary married the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Carol Spengler. They spent the next 53 years in Blissfield, both teachers in the Blissfield school district.

An important part of their lives was spent in the Blissfield Baptist Church where Gary served as a deacon, adult Sunday school teacher and, along with Carol, oversaw the music program. He was the choir director with up to 42 members. Doing a Christmas and Easter cantata each year was a highlight. He loved the choir as it was the chance to proclaim the gospel through music.

In 2020, they moved back to Wauseon where again they were privileged to serve at Haven Heights Baptist Church teaching and helping with the music.

The most important decision of his life as a young person was accepting Jesus as his Savior.

In addition to his wife, Carol, Gary is survived by children Lori (and Kurt) Sahloff of Ottawa, Ohio; Debra (and Scott) Stoddard of Jackson, Mich.; Heather Brink of Largo, Fla.; grandchildren Amanda Sahloff, Kiersten Stoddard, Seth Sahloff and Kady Stoddard; brothers Richard (and Kay) Brink, Steve (and Julie) Brink; sisters Betty (and Bob) Bieber and Denise (and Rick) Kamcza; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will  begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 22, at Blissfield Baptist Church, with Pastor Tom Frantz and Pastor Lance Wyse officiating. Burial will follow at Wauseon Union Cemetery at 2:30 p.m. Visitation is planned from 3 to 7 p.m. Aug. 21 at the church.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Haven Heights Baptist Church or a charity of the donor’s choice. 

Arrangements were made with Marry Funeral Home, Blissfield.

Max Walter Grieder, 78, of Hillsdale, Mich., formerly of Morenci, died Aug. 9, 2025, in Adrian, Mich.

Max was born Jan. 28, 1947, in Morenci to Walter and Ilah Grieder. Max was a 1965 graduate of Morenci Area High School. He married his high school sweetheart, Marcia Dominique, on Sept. 4, 1965, sharing 60 years of marriage together before his passing.

After high school, he was hired at Parker Chemical in Morenci where he worked as a lab tech for 25 years until it closed. He finished his career at ACT in Hillsdale, and after retiring, they split their time between Florida as snowbirds and Michigan during the summer.

Max will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his love for motorcycles, and an insatiable sweet tooth. His favorite place to be was on a Harley Davidson or on his swing at the lake.

In addition to his wife, Marcia, Max is survived by children Michelle (and Tim) Bovee and Matt Grieder; grandchildren Jacob (and Whitney) Bovee, Brett (and Hannah) Bovee, Brooke (and Stefan) Garcia, Nate, Dylan and Kylee Grieder; great-grandchildren Penelope, Paxon and Portlyn Bovee, Hayden, Henrix and Harlow Bovee and Luke Garcia; and brother Richard (and Dianne) Grieder. 

Max was preceded in death by his parents and his in-laws John and Geraldine Dominique.

A celebration of life is planned from 3  to 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 22, at Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Friends and family will be encouraged to share memories of Max.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to Hospice of Lenawee.

Jimmie Allen Crowell, 60, of Munson,  Mich., died Aug. 7, 2025 at his residence.

He was born Nov. 25, 1964, in Morenci  to Jimmie and Margaret (Pigott) Crowell. Jimmie attended and graduated from Gorham-Fayette High School.  After being together for 10 years, he married Katherine Kreighbaum on July 20, 2023, and she survives. 

Jimmie was known as a great family man. He loved his family with his whole heart and soul. His children and grandchildren were the pride of his life. He was also a very good friend to many. Jimmie would help anyone at any time of the day or night. No doubt, Jimmie lived his life how he wanted. He enjoyed deer hunting, fishing and spending time with his dogs and horses.

 Jimmie is survived by sons Christopher (and Erin) and Cory (and Carmen) Crowell, Dikota Kreighbaum, and Randell (and Jessica) Boltz; daughters Brandie and Megan Crowell and Rebeka (and Justin) Double; grandchildren Audrey, Emma, Issac, Zoie, Sebastian and Sofia; brother Tracie (and Trisha) Crowell; and sister Jodie Moran.  

He was preceded in death by his father, Jimmie, and brother-in-law Rodney Moran.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will begin at 4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 22, at Harrison Lake State Park – Beach Pavilion, southwest of Fayette. 

Memorial donations are suggested to the family for future consideration.

Marry Funeral Home – Fayette Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

Jack Eugene Merillat, 77, of Hudson, Mich., died Aug. 3, 2025.

He was born July 21, 1948, in Hudson, the third son of parents Donald and Emma (Warren) Merillat, Sr. 

Jack attended Morenci Area High School where he graduated with the Class of 1966. He married the former Rosetta “Rosie” Perez on Dec. 22, 1967, in Adrian, Mich. Together they raised a daughter and shared more than 57½ years of loving marriage.

Jack was known as a hard-working man dedicated to his family. In addition to farming with his father, Jack worked at Martin Marietta, later Harvey Aluminum, for more than nine years until the company relocated. He then worked at Merillat Cabinetry for a year, before beginning what would become a 26-year career as a laborer with Krieghoff Lenawee, and retired at the age of 52. 

Jack always preferred to be outdoors, and took delight in golfing, fishing, cutting wood, and grilling all year long. There wasn’t anything he couldn’t fix around the house.

A devoted father, Jack supported his daughter Renae in all of her endeavors, and he loved watching her play sports through high school, college and summer ball. Hunting with Renae was one of his most highly anticipated and cherished events each year.

Jack was a member of the Fayette Christian Church-Disciples of Christ, where he served as a deacon most of his adult life.

Surviving in addition to his wife, Rosie, is his daughter Renae (and Mitch) Schaffner of Fayette; brother Ronald (and Susan) Merillat of Hudson; sister Mary (and Dennis) Austin of Clayton, Mich.;  brother-in-law Eli Pina of Lima, Ohio; sisters-in-law Carol Merillat of Morenci, Irene Perez of Paulding, Ohio, Lucy Perez of Ft. Wayne, Ind., and Agedita Trejo of Austin, Texas; and several nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by brother Donald Merillat, Jr; seven brothers-in-law; and five sisters-in-law.

Visitation is planned from 1 to 3 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8, at Marry Funeral Home in Fayette, followed by a service officiated by Pastor Vicki Schnitkey. Private burial will take place in Lime Creek Cemetery in Medina Township.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Fayette Christian Church-Disciples of Christ or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Virginia D. Meinke, 97, of Clayton, Mich., died Aug. 1, 2025, at her daughter’s residence.

She was born Oct. 19, 1927, in Adrian, Mich., the daughter of Clarence and Margaret (LaGore) Snyder. She married Orville Meinke on Nov. 6, 1944. He preceded her in death Nov. 13, 1983.

Virginia served as a 4-H leader for 10 years. She worked at Grants Department Store in Adrian, Kustom Fit in Pioneer, Ohio, and Lenawee Medical Care Facility in Adrian. 

Virginia is survived by two daughters, Donna Bischoff and Katherine Meinke; 19 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; 20 great-great-grandchildren; and one brother, Franklin. 

Along with her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by sons Jack and Wayne Meinke; daughter Linda Rinck; son-in-law Larry Bischoff; sisters Wanda Ramsey and Lillian Ostrander; and brothers William, Norman and Jerry Redlin.

Visitation is planned from noon to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 6, at which time funeral services will take place at Marry Funeral Home - Morenci Chapel. Rev. William VanValkenburg will officiate and Virginia will be laid to rest in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee.

Mary Alice Lockwood, 90, of Adrian, Mich., formerly of Morenci, Mich., died July 16, 2025, at Springcreek Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, under the care of Elara Caring Hospice.

Mary was born Feb. 23, 1935, in Sand Creek, Mich., to Howard and Rose (Souders) Scott. She graduated from Sand Creek High School and then married Donald Eugene Lockwood. He preceded her in death May 27, 1976. 

Mary worked as a teller at the former Adrian State Bank as a teller, working her way up to the loan department before retiring in 2003. She then worked in the administrative office of the Adrian Mall until the mall permanently closed.

In her free time, Mary was an avid quilter, creating several quilts as gifts for her family. She was also an avid cake decorator. On family birthdays and weddings the family could expect a beautiful cake to celebrate the occasion, made with love from Mary. Mary also found time to enjoy jigsaw puzzles, read  books, or play solitaire or Bingo.

Mary is survived by children Suzanne Camburn, Cindy (and Mike) Foreman and Marc Lockwood (and Cathy Jackson); grandchildren Andy (and Brandi) Keller, Corey Keller, Holly Keller, Zack Camburn (and Steve Ellis), Josh (and Eleni) Lockwood and Nathan (and Kristen) Camburn; eight great-grandchildren; siblings Jim (and Kathy) Scott and Roselyn (and Larry) Keller; many nieces and nephews; and close friend Shelley Lockwood.

In addition to her parents and husband, Mary was preceded in death by son-in-law Gary Camburn. 

Visitation is planned from noon until 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 22, at Marry Funeral Home - Morenci Chapel, with the funeral service beginning at 2 p.m. Rev. William Van Valkenburg will officiate. A graveside service will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery.

Memorial donations are suggested to Lenawee County Habitat for Humanity or Lenawee County Humane Society.

James Keefer, 66, of Fayette, Ohio, died July 10, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at the University of Toledo medical center. 

Jim was born Feb. 4, 1959, in Hudson, Mich. He was the baby of the family of 11 children of Denver and Bessie (Smith) Keefer.

He attended Gorham Fayette school and lived from the age of five on his family’s farm until the day he passed. In his early life he raised pigs before transitioning to cattle and hay farming. Jim worked at Sauder Woodworking from 1989 to 2024 as a truck loader. He was a very strong willed, hard working man who enjoyed the simple things like coffee with cream and sugar. 

He married the love of his life Gwendolyn (Johnson) Keefer on July 26, 1986, at the Fayette Church of the Nazarene. When their only daughter was born, Jim made the heartfelt decision to stay on second shift so that he could spend days with his daughter until she started school. She was his pride and joy. Although they sometimes “pulled ears,” he never took it personally because he knew she was just like him. 

Jim had a deep love of animals, especially dogs. He frequently donated to the Fulton County Humane Society to make sure the animals were taken care of, although there wasn’t an animal Jim didn’t like. He was know to drag a hose to a mud puddle to save the tadpoles his daughter found or build multiple rabbits cages, or taking care of any other strays his daughter brought home.

Jim found joy in simply watching calves playing in the pasture or helping a turtle cross the road.

He was always willing to help anyone who asked or was in need, whether helping a stranger with a flat or grabbing his chain saw to help cut up a downed tree. 

A man of strong faith, Jim was baptized at the First Baptist Church of Morenci. He was quiet in his faith, believing in a conversation between him and his Heavenly Father. He knew one day he would join his parents in heaven. 

In addition to his wife Gwen, Jim is survived by daughter Meribeth (and Edward Bollinger) Keefer, Ian Bollinger; his son of the heart Brad (and Rachelle) Lantz; grandchildren Tristan, Grant, Abby and Deklan Lantz; parents-in-law Robert and Marcia Kinsey; brothers Carl (and Jan) and Alvin (and Diane) Keefer; sisters Marlene Eckle, Betty Shaffer, Lois (and Walt) Hassenzahl, and Elaine (and Larry) Deck; and his parents-in-law, Robert and Marcia Kinsey.

In addition to his parents, Jim was proceeded in death by brothers Denver and John Keefer, and sisters Arlene Parker and Lorraine Patterson. 

A celebration of life is planned from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 19, at the family farm. Cremains will later be inurned at Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci. 

 Memorial contributions are suggested to the Fulton County Humane Society. 

Arrangements were made with the guidance of Marry Funeral Home, Morenci.

Anna Marie Kerns, 72, of Morenci, Mich., died peacefully in her sleep at her home July 13, 2025.

She was born Sept. 30, 1952, in Toledo, Ohio, the oldest of nine from the union of James and Dorothy (Never) Gifford.  

Anna grew up in Blissfield, Mich., where she attended school. She married John Lester Kerns on June 12, 1970, in Palmyra, Mich. Together they raised four children and recently celebrated 55 years of happy marriage.

Anna was known to be a wonderful selfless mother who loved to cook, and was renowned for her special potato salad. She enjoyed being outside tending to her beautiful gardens of flowers and vegetables each summer. An animal lover, she was always willing to adopt a new pet into her family. She had a vast collection of Amish dolls, art and memorabilia, and she rarely missed a chance at a bargain at a local garage sale.  

Anna had an outgoing and happy-go-lucky personality and loved to socialize with anyone, never knowing a stranger. She loved to sing Patsy Cline karaoke at the Pub.

 In addition to her husband, Anna is survived son John (and Sonya) Kerns, Jr., of Adrian, Mich.; daughters Carrie (and Kevin) Drow of Williston, Fla., and Wendy Kerns (and Nathan Darm) of Morenci; siblings Brenda (and Russ), Linda, Dody, Joan (and Randy), and William; sister-in-law Virginia Gifford; grandchildren Jacob, Joseph, Jessica, Daniel, Mathew, John, Joshua, Devin, Damien, Michael and Jennifer; and a week-old great-grandson, Jackson.

In addition to her parents, Anna was preceded in her death by daughter Kristi Lynn Kerns; siblings Virginia, Jim and Shari (and Jay); and brother-in-law Junior McGinnis.

Cremation will take place. The family will host a Celebration of Life on Saturday, Aug. 16, beginning at 1 p.m. at Morenci Sportsman’s Club.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Lenawee Humane Society.

Arrangements have been made with the guidance of the Marry Funeral Home, Morenci.

Michael Jay Merillat, 67, of Montpelier, Ohio, formerly of Fayette, Ohio, died July 12, 2025, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Ind., following several recent health complications.

He was born May 5, 1958, in Wauseon,  Ohio, the youngest of three sons from the union of Merrill and Bonita (Stantz) Merillat.

Mike was a 1976 graduate of Gorham-Fayette High School. He then proudly enlisted in the United States Army, and served his country for three years at Fort Brag followed by three years with the Army Reserves. Returning to civilian life, Mike drove truck for his brother Randy, worked at Sauder Woodworking, and finally at the steel plant (now Ecolab) in Delta for more than 20 years.

In 2007, Mike relocated to rural Montpelier, and married the true love of his life, Karen Sue (Beavers) Brown on Dec. 21, 2016. They enjoyed a marriage full of laughter, could finish each other’s sentences, and Mike notably told Karen she was beautiful each morning.

A lover of music, Mike was a skilled guitar player. He enjoyed the outdoors, and often spent free time hunting, fishing, and crafting beautiful hunting bows. He had a lifelong adoration for motorcycles and guns, and had extensive collections of both throughout the years. He could cook delicious authentic meals like a chef, but also enjoyed going out to eat at various local restaurants. In recent years, he and Karen made frequent trips to Battle Creek to try their luck at Firekeepers Casino.

Mike’s greatest passions in life were his son and his wife. His kind-hearted nature provided a loving and nurturing foundation for his entire family, and he always selflessly put others before himself. He doted on his grandchildren, and was ever-ready with candy for them in his pocket.

In addition to his wife, Mike is survived by son Bradley (and Amy) Merillat of Archbold, Ohio; step-children Tasha (and Jaret) Grove of Edon, Ohio, Jaramie (and Kayla) Harness of Nettle Lake, Ohio, and Cherish Brown (and Mansoor Alneyadi) of Edon; brother Darrell Merillat of Wauseon; sister-in-law Penny (and Dan) Creighton of Fayette; and grandchildren Katherine, William, Elias, Jayden, Jaycea, Jaron, Jayahna, Noah, Chance, Zahlia and Dexter.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brother Randy Merillat and granddaughter Daphne Hannaford.

Visitation is planned from 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 16, until the funeral service at 1 p.m. at Marry Funeral Home, Fayette. Pastor Andy Reynard will officiate and burial will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette, with military honors performed by the Fulton County Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions are suggested to The Cure Starts Now.

Verna Mae Williams, 95, of Fayette, Ohio, died July 9, 2025, at Fulton Manor in Wauseon, Ohio, where she had resided the past year.

She was born Nov. 28, 1929,  in Wauseon, the oldest of three children from the union of Kenneth and Alice (Klinker) Flory. 

Verna lived her formative years in Wauseon, where she graduated from high school in 1947. On April 30, 1949, she married Wayne Revere Williams at the Wauseon First Christian Church. Together, they raised two sons and enjoyed more than 73 years of married life prior to his passing June 5, 2022.

While raising her sons, Verna worked as a bookkeeper for her husband’s Sohio gas station in Fayette for nearly 25 years. She later worked at Fayette Normal Memorial Library, where she served as director for 30 years, formally retiring in 2002. Alongside her husband, Verna was very active in her community. She was a member of the Fayette Firebelles, Fayette Woman’s Club, Order of Eastern Star, Ohio Library Council, and was a 50-year member of the Fayette United Methodist Church. She volunteered with Fayette Helping Hands and was a researching advocate for the Bean Creek History Center. She and Wayne were crowned Queen and King of the Fayette Royal Bullthistle Festival in 1993, and were named Citizens of the Year in 2015. Her dedication and love for the Village of Fayette were notably recognized by the declaration of “Verna Williams Day” on June 9, 2023.

Verna loved to play cards, read, and work puzzles in her spare time. She was also an avid golfer, and enjoyed wonderful travels to Florida and Arizona over the years, where she met famous author J.A. Jance as well as TV star Alex Trebek.

She is survived by son Mark S. Williams of Wauseon; grandson Mason Williams of DePere, Wis.; granddaughter, Maren Williams of Fayette; great-grandson Wyatt Revere Williams; sister-in-law Dorothy Clark of Angola, Ind.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Verna was preceded in death by son Michael Lee Williams; sister Carol Flory; brother Richard (and Donna) Flory; and brother-in-law Brice Clark.

Visitation is planned at the Family Life Center in Fayette on Sunday, Aug. 3, from 1 p.m. until a memorial service begins at 2 p.m. Fellowship will continue during a meal immediately following the service. Private committal will take place in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Bean Creek History Center, Normal Memorial Library, or the Family Life Center.

Arrangements were made with Marry Funeral Home, Fayette.

Daniel Russell Herman, 74, of Morenci, Mich., died July 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. 

Daniel was born April 27, 1951, in Adrian, Mich., to Othmar O. Herman and Edith V. Herman (Trumble). He lived most of his life in Clayton and Morenci. On Oct. 22, 1994, he married Flower Kay Rood (Brighton) in Canandaigua, Mich.

Dan worked many years for Stubnitz-Greene in Adrian and Charlotte, Mich., until the company closed and he worked in several other factories in Michigan and Ohio.

Dan love riding his motorcycle, and shooting black powder pistols and rifles. He was a member of the Salk Valley Original Rifles.

Daniel is survived by his wife of 30 years, Flower Kay Brighton Herman; son Dennis Herman of Adrian; step-daughter Tina Brighton of Branch, Mich., Stacey (and John) Lazarus of Ionia, Mich.; stepson Edward Rood of Hastings, Mich.; sisters Gayle (and Lyle) Clark of Hillsdale, Mich., and Karen (and Mark) Kerr of Clayton; brothers Charles (Todd Spotts) Herman of Holland, Ohio, Harold E. (and Michelle) Hackathorn of Hudson, Mich.; half-sisters Carol (and Ora) Hatcher of Howell, Mich., and Dolores Raver of North Branch, Minn.; sister-in-law Kathy (and Joe) Snyder of Lyons, Mich.; friend Deb Howard; 12 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Daniel was preceded in death by his son, Daniel Richard; daughter Dora Lynn; step-daughter Star Rood; parents and grandparents; sisters Vicki Herman and Dawn Herman; half-sisters Clara Jean Herman, Mary Ellen Bretthauer of Adrian, and Joyce Dwyer of Morenci; half-brothers Oscar, Edward Paul, Richard, Robert, Herman and Harley, Paul and Dean McNamara; and brothers-in-law Dale and Terry Brighton.

Funeral services will begin at noon Thursday, July 10, at Purse Funeral Home, Adrian, with Rev. Greg Ryan officiating. Burial will follow in Oakwood cemetery, Adrian. Visitation is planned from 1 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 9, at the funeral home.

Timothy Allan Pennington, 61, of Fayette, Ohio, died July 7, 2025, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Tim was born July 22, 1963, in Morenci, Mich., to Allan Pennington and Karen Cox. He graduated from Evergreen High School in 1981 and entered the workforce, cultivating an extensive knowledge base that he was able to pass on to family and friends over the years.

Tim married Christina on March 29, 2014, and together, over the past 11 years, they built a strong foundation of love and family.

Tim was not one to shy away from hard work and spent many years working alongside his brother, Bill, in his tool and die shop. He took pride in utilizing his skills and worked with him as long as he physically could. Outside of work, Tim had a zest for life, finding joy in camping, attending concerts with Chris and friends, looking over old cars and motorcycles, and riding bicycles. Most of all, he treasured the time spent with his family and doting on his grandchildren.

Tim was known for his strength, kindness, and unwavering willingness to help anyone with his vast knowledge. He was also endearingly stubborn. Even in the face of his long illness, Tim never let cancer diminish his spirit or stop him from doing what he enjoyed most: showering his family and friends with love.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his father Allan Pennington; mother-in-law Barb Beaverson; brothers Michael (and Denise) Pennington and William (and Sarah) Pennington; children Jacob (and Sara) Pennington, Lucas (and Mikayla) Pennington, Aaron Hylander, Austin (and Chelsea) Hylander, Alec (and Paige) Hylander, and Adriana Hylander; grandchildren Grayson, Addison, Ellie and Kalen Hylander; Harrison and Charlotte Hylander; Carter, Brynnlee and Andi Pennington.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Karen Cox; stepfather Charles Cox; father in-law Gene Beaverson; infant sister Cindy; and grandson Reese Hylander.

Visitation will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 12, at Fayette Methodist Church – Family Life Center and will continue until the memorial service at 3 p.m., with Pastor Billy Meyer officiating. Inurnment of remains will take place at a later date.

Memorial contributions are suggested to CHP Hospice.

The Marry Funeral Home – Fayette Chapel assisted with arrangements.

Donnell Williams Basham, 55, of Morenci, Mich., died June 28, 2025, while a patient at the University of Michigan hospital after a lengthy battle with health issues.

She was born Oct. 10, 1969, in Morenci to Alden Williams and Nina Williams and was a 1988 graduate of Morenci Area High School.

Donnell was known as a very loving and caring woman, a wonderful mother, grandmother, aunt and sister. She enjoyed helping out at the Dairy Depot in Morenci and her trips to West Virginia with her sister to visit a special aunt, Darlene Williams and family. She loved watching her grandchildren and nieces, Nevaeh and Taelynn, and nephew, Sevrynn at sporting events.

Donnell is survived by children Alden (and Amber) Basham and Brianna (and Jacob) Thompson; grandchildren Lilliy-Ann, Lilly April, Chole, Savannah, Evalynn, Nina, Jozelyn Basham, Gabriel Mattingly, Lincoln and Freya Thompson; brothers Daniel Williams and Randall Williams; and sister Geneva (and Henry Shea) Ballard; special nephew Jeremy Williams; and special friend Matt Bridge who helped with her care.

Preceeding her in death were her parents; husband Earl Basham; nephew Justin Hoffman; and granddaughter Jelly Bean.

Cremation will take and a graveside service will be planned for August 2025. 

Arrangements were made with Purse Funeral Home.

Carl D. McLaughlin, 82, of Sand Creek, Mich., died June 26, 2025, at Hospice Home of Hospice of Lenawee, surrounded by his loving family. 

Carl was born Aug. 12, 1942, in Hillsdale, Mich., to Harold E. and Dorene M. (Stanton) McLaughlin. On June 5, 1960, he married his high school sweetheart, Joy Mann, and she survives. 

He was a member of the Model-A Cars Club and served as a volunteer fire chief for Fairfield for 20 years. He also enjoyed fishing and looked forward every year to the annual family vacation to Ludington, Mich.

Carl is survived by his wife Joy; daughter Kay (and Randy) McGraw of Adrian, Mich.; sons Carl II (and Michelle) McLaughlin of Adrian, and Pat (and Serena) McLaughlin of Weston, Mich.;  sister Marlene (and Henry) Howard of Tecumseh, Mich.; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; sister-in-law Linda McLaughlin of Maumee, Ohio; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Duane McLaughlin, and two brothers in infancy.

Visitation is planned from 3 to 7 p.m. July 2, at Anderson-Marry Funeral Home, Adrian. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 3, at the funeral home, with Pastor James Mann officiating. Burial will follow in Lyons Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee.

Douglas Gene Shields, Sr., 85, of rural Morenci, Mich., died June 27, 2025, surrounded by family.

He was born June 7, 1940, in Morenci, the son of Gene and Mabel (Elarton) Shields. A 1958 graduate of Morenci High School, Doug was a lifelong Morenci area resident. 

Doug married the love of his life, Sharon Green, on Oct. 27, 1962, at St. Stephen Lutheran Church in Adrian, Mich. They spent nearly 63 years together building a great life and raising three sons.

Doug lived a simple life. He enjoyed working around the house, going to church on Sundays, and golfing. In the words of Doug, “72 degrees and a light breeze is perfect golf weather.”

In addition to his wife, Doug is survived by children Douglas Shields, Jr., of Napoleon, Ohio, Jeffery (and Candy) Shields of Milford, Mich., and William Shields of Morenci; grandchildren Courtney (and Roman) Reyes of Napoleon, Caitlyn (and Carl) Bittinger of Lyons, Ohio, Damon Casebere of Morenci, and Zack Shields of Morenci; great-grandsons Curtis and Creed Bittinger of Lyons; brother Roger (and Jane) Shields of Tallahassee, Fla.; sisters Linda Hames of Raleigh, N.C., and Carol Shields of Plymouth, Mich.; brothers-in-law Robert (and Carol) Green of Brighton, Mich., and Kenneth Green of Sand Creek, Mich.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; maternal grandparents William and Minnie Elarton; paternal grandparents Edward and Lillian Shields; parents-in-law Robert and Gladys Green; and sister-in-law Trudy Green.

Cremation will take place. Visitation is planned from 9:30 a.m. until the memorial service at 11:30 a.m., Tuesday, July 8, at St. James Lutheran Church near Archbold, Ohio. Pastor James C. Strawn will officiate. A luncheon will follow and inurnment will take place at a later date in Weston Cemetery, Weston, Mich.

Memorial contributions are suggested to benefit St. James Lutheran Church. 

Arrangements were made with Brown-Van Hemert Funeral Home, Hudson.

Kirk “Woody” Dennis, 61, of Wauseon,  Ohio, formerly of Morenci, Mich., died June 21, 2025, at the University of Toledo Medical Center, Toledo, Ohio.

He was born Jan. 18, 1964, in Morenci, the son of Rex Eugene and Janice Louise (Sutherland) Dennis. Woody graduated from Morenci Area High School in 1982. He married Rachel Ann Henricks on Dec. 24, 2003, in Morenci, and she survives.

Woody worked as a carpenter/superintendent for Industrial Power Systems. He was a member of the Lansing/Jackson Carpenters Union Local 1004. Woody loved the outdoors, and tinkering, fixing things, building and harness horse racing were a few of his favorite activities. His special moments were the time spent with family, especially his wife and kids.

Woody is survived by his wife, Rachel; their son Breck Dennis and daughter Brittany Dennis; mother Janice Hawkins; sisters Debra Eastman, Carol (and Clay) Alford and Michelle Clark; father- and mother-in-law, Richard (and Sue) Henricks; brothers and sisters-in-law Walter Clark, Phillip (and Tara) Henricks, Tina Henricks, Tricia (and Rob) Durbin and Shauna (and Mike) Prayter

 He was preceded in death by his father Rex Dennis; stepfather Doug Hawkins; and brother Richard Bender.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 1, at Marry Funeral Home, Morenci. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Wednesday, July 2, with Pastor Gary Stuckey officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested  to the family for future designation.

Thomas Marshall Craig, 85, of Medina Township, Mich., died at home June 19, 2025,  surrounded by his three sons.

He was born Jan. 7, 1940, in Ecorse Mich., the son of William Craig and Thelma (Combs) Craig. After serving honorably in the United States Army, he married the love of his life, Wilda Fay (Duncan) Craig, in Taylor, Mich. In 1966 he started the family farm in Medina Township.

Tom was a faithful member of the Adrian Church of Christ and served in multiple leadership positions in the church. Besides farming, he enjoyed rabbit hunting and raising beagles. He was a member and leader of the Detroit Beagle Club. The beagles he raised and sold received multiple awards and championships.

Tom is survived by his wife Wilda; sons David (and Nellie) Craig, James (and Barbara) Craig and John (and Molly) Craig; sister Thelma Ann Anthony; grandchildren Zach (and Chelsea) Craig, Alex (and Dana) Craig, Luke (and Payton) Craig, Kayley Craig, Clay Craig, Casey Craig and Emma Craig; and great-grandchildren Nolan, Cassius, Ward, Leah, Beckham and Bennett.

He was preceded in death by his parents as well as his siblings William Craig, Robert Craig, Lillian Proffit and Mary Lou Burkey.

Cremation will take place and a memorial service will take place at a later date. Memorial contributions are suggested to Adrian Church of Christ or Hospice of Lenawee. 

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

Lydia Molina, 71, of Fort Wayne, Ind., died unexpectedly at her home June 23, 2025. She was born Aug. 29, 1953, in Uvalde, Texas, the youngest child of six born to the late Manuel and Louisa (Rodriguez) Santos. 

Lydia married Marcos David Molina, Jr., on May 30, 1988, in Wauseon, Ohio, and united two families into one. They shared more than 37 years together as husband and wife.

Lydia worked for many years as a Certified Nursing Assistant, caring for patients on home health care. She lived in many parts of the country during her lifetime, with past residences that included Colorado, Texas and Illinois. She loved listening to music and dancing, and was always a proud fan in the crowd at all of her grandchildren’s athletic events. She was socially outgoing and loved to laugh. Her greatest passion was her family, and loved when her family gathered together for any occasion.

 Surviving in addition to her husband, David, are her children Ray Ramos of Stryker, Ohio, Elizabeth Ramos of Ft. Wayne, Joel Ramos of Ft. Wayne, David Molina of Ft. Wayne, Anastasia (and Richard) Moore of Montpelier, Ohio, and Yolee Bohner of Montpelier; four siblings Mary (and Adrian) Peña, Neomi Ramon, and Eva Moran, all of Illinois, and Joe Santos of Ft. Wayne; 16 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Manuel Santos, Jr.; two brother-in-laws, Rauel Ramon and Nestor Moran; and son-in-law Joe Bohner.

Visitation is planned from 10 a.m. until the funeral service Friday, June 27, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Fayette, with the service beginning at noon. Pastor Israel Aguilar will officiate. Burial will follow at Pleasant View Union Cemetery.

Jody Lynn Sands, 60, formerly of Morenci, Mich., died June 21, 2025, at Parkview Randallia Hospital in Fort Wayne, Ind.

Jody was born April 10, 1965, in Wauseon, Ohio, the daughter of Wayne Ronald and Sue Arline (Case) Double. Jody graduated from Archbold High School in 1983.

She worked at Menards as a cashier and at the distribution center as a forklift driver. Jody loved watching dirt track racing, socializing with family and friends, playing spoons and cards and being a grandmother. She enjoyed those special times with her grandchildren.

Jody is survived by daughters Kendra and Cheyenne Sands; son Chris (and Brittany) Sands; grandchildren Lexus, Brayan, Oakley, Maverick and Avery;  sister Johnna Richmond; brothers Ron (and Julie) Double and Troy (and Julie) Double; her significant other, Dale Boggemes; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother-in-law, Randy Richmond.

Visitation is planned from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, June 26, at Marry Funeral Home, Morenci. Burial of her cremains will take place at a later date in Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for future designation.

Nina Irene Merillat, 94, of Morenci, Mich., died June 19, 2025, under the care of Hospice of Lenawee Hospice Home.  

She was born Sept. 17, 1930, to Alonzo and Flossie Slee in Delta, Ohio. Nina was a graduate of Liberty Center School. In August of 1948, Nina married the love of her life, Kenneth Merillat, in Waukegan, Ill.

Nina enjoyed cooking and baking for people, crafting, birds and horses, and loved to walk. If you  knew Nina, you knew she was never one to sit still. She also loved ice cream, especially chocolate.

Nina will be remembered most for her infectious, unique laugh. You could hear her laugh from another room and knew who it was. Nina loved Jesus very much, and contributed to the Kingdom in many ways throughout her life. She loved people and was always willing to tell them of her faith and love for the Lord. 

Nina is survived by daughter Kathy (and Aram) of Kentucky; grandsons Chip (and Cassie) Connin of Morenci and Kip (and Jana) Connin of Indiana; great-grandchildren Kristos, Kolya, Chase (and Caitlyn), Carter (and Mackayla), Kaden and Keegan; great-great-grandson Arthur; grandson-in-law Tony McArthy; special friend and family member Ruth Knaus; brother John Slee; and many nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Kenneth Merillat; son Kenny Merillat; daughter-in-law Alice (Hood) Merillat and their two children Kayleen and Kendra; daughter Karen; granddaughter Karisha McArthy; two brothers and two sisters. 

A memorial service will be scheduled in the fall. Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice Home of Lenawee or Lenawee County Dept. on Aging. 

Purse Funeral Home in Adrian assisted the family with arrangements.

Sherman David Sparks, 86, of Chesterfield, Ohio, died June 17, 2025, in his home, under the care of Heartland Hospice.

Sherman was born on June 7, 1939, to Isaac and Ella Mae (Hildreth) Sparks. He graduated from Chesterfield High School in 1957. He married Rita (Youtzy) on July 14, 1962. Sherman served his country as a member of the United States Army.

He worked for Haas Door for many years.

Sherman is survived by his wife Rita; son Todd Sparks of Chesterfield; and a special aunt, Colleen Borck of Arizona.

He was preceded in death by his son Tim; parents; one brother; and two sisters.

Private inurnment will take place by his son, Tim, at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

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

Donald “Moose” Lee Underwood, 80, of Blissfield, Mich., died Thursday, June 12, 2025, at the Hospice of Lenawee Home, surrounded by his loving family. 

Don was born July 22, 1944, in Morenci, Mich., to William and Rose “Leona” (Rice) Underwood. He graduated from Morenci Area High School with the Class of 1963. During his time there he competed on the basketball, football and track teams and was a multiple All-State athlete and named Morenci’s Senior Athlete of the Year.

After high school, Don enrolled at Ferris State University where he played football and earned an associate’s degree in metallurgy. He was inducted into the United States Army in 1965 and proudly served until 1967 after earning the rank of Sergeant. On Aug. 23, in 1965, while on leave from the Army, he married his sweetheart, Sally L. Mincheff, during a brief ceremony at the United Methodist Church in Morenci. Don retired from Ervin Industries after 36 years of employment. 

Don will be remembered for his sense of humor and not having a filter. He really enjoyed making others laugh and had a soft heart. Don liked to take camping and fishing trips with his family and friends, making many memories over the years. He was extremely proud of his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Don was able to watch his grandchildren participate in sports and other activities all the way from high school until they graduated from college. With great joy Don was able to meet his twin great-grandchildren before his passing. 

Don is survived by his wife of 59 years, Sally Underwood; son Mark (and Michelle) Underwood; daughter Amy (and Nathan) Osburn; grandchildren Dakota (and Mady) Underwood, Shelby (and Harrison) Kane, Waide (and Sydney Faust) Osburn, Brady Osburn (and Kennedy Lawson) and William Fiander; great-grandchildren Janie and Elias Kane; sisters-in-law Ruth Underwood, Donna Fiander and Nancy Rutkowski; brothers-in-law George Mincheff and Dave Traschke; along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and twin brother, David E. Underwood. 

Cremation will take place with a Celebration of Life planned at a future date. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to Elara Caring Hospice or to Hospice of Lenawee. 

John David Stutzman, 79, of rural Morenci, died unexpectedly June 11, 2025, at his home.

He was born Jan. 4, 1946, in Wauseon, Ohio, the son of John and Irene (Fike) Stutzman. After his father’s passing in 1953, his mother married Jack Raymond, who was a devoted step-father and later a business partner. 

A lifelong resident of Morenci, David graduated from Morenci Area High School with the Class of 1964, before obtaining an associate’s degree in agriculture from Michigan State University. Soon after, on June 24, 1967, Dave married the love of his life, Morenci native Nancy Ann Brewer, at the First Baptist Church in Morenci. Together, they raised three children and built a foundation of loyalty and love that has been celebrated for nearly 58 years. 

Farming was in Dave’s blood, and he proudly and honorably carried on the Raymond Family legacy in being the third generation owner of Raymond & Stutzman Farms, now in its fifth generation of family ownership. While currently attending the Morenci United Methodist Church, Dave had deep roots in the Morenci First Congregational Church, where he was a faithful and involved member in volunteering as well as serving on various leadership roles. He was civically involved in his community, holding seats on the Morenci Area Schools Board of Education, Bank of Lenawee Board of Directors and Lenawee County 4-H, and he was also a longtime member of the Michigan Cattlemen’s Association.

David loved fishing, and enjoyed annual fishing trips with family and friends in Canada. In later years, he and Nancy were blessed with spending winters in Anna Marie Island, Fla. An MSU graduate, David was an avid supporter of the University and its sports teams. David was a loyal, dedicated and loving family man, whose love for family was above all else. He thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, and never missed an opportunity to watch them  show cattle or participate in an athletic event. His sarcastic humor and rooted convictions will forever be missed.

Surviving is his wife Nancy; three children, Timothy Stutzman (fiancée Christine Vance) of Morenci, Julie (and Mark) Briese and Peggy (and Shawn) Simms, both of Canton, Mich.; four sisters, Linda (and Bill) Baker of South Carolina, Judy (and Lynn) Mitchell of Tennessee, Jacquie Prielipp of Louisiana, and Kathy (and Lee) Merkle-Raymond of California; nine grandchildren, David (and Emily) Stutzman, Daniel (and Macy) Stutzman, Nick (and Jessie) Stutzman, Matthew Briese, Nicole Briese, Nate Simms, Avery Simms, Zack Kerr and Cheyenne Kerr; and 10 great-grandchildren, Owen, Ashton, Luke, Liam, Isabella, Xavier, Joniyah, Kingston, William and Naudia.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Janet (and Doug) Keller. 

Cremation will take place. A memorial graveside service will begin at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 20. The family invites everyone out to the farm immediately following, where a meal and fellowship will be enjoyed.

Memorial contributions to best honor David’s life are suggested to benefit Lenawee County 4-H.

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

Kenneth Gene Coopshaw, “Uncle Kenny,” 76, of Wauseon, Ohio, died at his home June 8, 2025.

Kenny was born June 11, 1948, in Wauseon, to Michael and Marcella Coopshaw. In 1966, Kenny graduated from Evergreen schools moved to Lyons, Ohio. From there he went on to obtain an accounting degree from Davis Business College in Toledo, Ohio. Through college, Kenny worked for Toledo Fence Company, and after graduation, he worked for Kewaunee Manufacturing in Adrian, Mich. Kenny was a skilled backhoe operator, starting his operating career for D&G Equipment, then spent the majority of his working years for Penn Central Railroad.

From 1974 to 1988, Kenny was the eldest Coopshaw brother with the tractor pulling team “Coopie Special.” While traveling the United States, together they won several state, national and grand national titles. While traveling the U.S., each year you could always find him living it up at the BG Pull Town Tractor Pulls, proudly displaying the mini-puller and reminiscing about the good ol’ days.

After retirement, Kenny spent most of his days at his brother Rick’s, choring the cattle, helping maintain the barns, and keeping all the kids in line. Kenny was always a helping hand whether you wanted it or not. He was loved by so many people. Everyone he met liked him. Kenny loved to laugh, he loved going on trips, and every weekend, you could count on seeing him out to dinner with his party of five: Ricky, Kevin, Erin, Jameson and Kenny.

“Uncle Kenny” welcomed everyone he met as a friend, offering a pop, candy, chips or a Bud Light. Nobody was ever left out. He loved to work, he loved to play, and most of all, he loved his family.

Kenny is survived by siblings Rick (and Elaine, dec.) Coopshaw of Wauseon, Linda (and Blaine) York of Wauseon, Larry (and Barb) Coopshaw of Delta, and Sharon (and Ed, dec.) Cook of Lyons; nieces and nephews Erin (and Kevin) Raker, Charlie (and Erika) Parkes, Lisa (and Matt) Andrist, Jeremy York, Chad (and Kristi) Coopshaw, Tim (and Lindsey) Coopshaw, Jamie (and Kim) Huffman, Jodi (and Tom) Ordway; and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Kenny was preceded in death by his parents and nephew, Jeff Huffman.

Visitation is planned from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday, June 16, at Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home in Wauseon. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 17, at the funeral home, with Celebrant Adam Grisier officiating. Burial will follow at Winameg Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Fulton County 4-H Cattle Program.

Arnett Ray Williams, Jr., 78, of Wauseon, Ohio, died June 1, 2025, at his home.

He was born Dec. 6, 1946, in Beckley, W. Va., to Arnett and Ella Williams. On Aug. 22, 1970, Arnett, Jr., married the love of his life, JoAnn Martin, in Morenci, Mich. 

Arnett worked as a dye setter until he retired in 2009. 

He enjoyed taking his children hunting and fishing. He loved NASCAR racing  and watching his favorite driver, Dale Earnhardt Sr., as well as going to Oakshade to watch his son Billy race and work on his race car with him. On Sundays you could also find him watching the Denver Broncos. He was over the moon when they won back-to-back Super Bowls in 1998 and 1999. During his retirement, Arnett was always hunting, fishing, working in his garden, mushroom and ginseng hunting, enjoying card nights with family—and driving his wife JoAnn crazy.

In addition to his wife, Arnett is survived by children Donald (and Belinda) Williams of Morenci, Kelly (and Duane) Fletcher of Wauseon, Bobby (and Angie) Williams of Adrian, Mich., and Billy (and Dawn) Williams of Hudson, Mich.; siblings Greta Peterson, Sandra Borton, Doug Williams and Kenneth Williams; grandchildren Alexx Allen, Larissa (and Eliott) Richardson, Whitney (and Anthony) Snead, Trevor Fletcher, Chelsey (and Austin) Thomas, Lindsey (and Nicholas) Arredondo, Courtney Fletcher, Mason (and Olivia) Williams and Kendyle Williams; and 18 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Almeda Thompson, Alden Williams, Gary Williams, Judith Cornell, Dennis Williams and Lowell Williams; grandson Collin Fletcher and great-granddaughter Arya Grace Allen. 

Funeral services will begin a  2 p.m. Friday, June 6, at Purse Funeral Home, Adrian. Burial will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci. Visitation is also scheduled Friday from 1 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.

Earl “John” Speelman, 90, of Morenci, Mich., died April 25, 2025, at Brookdale Assisted Living in Adrian, Mich., under the care of Gentiva Hospice.

John was born May 29, 1934, in Morenci  to Mildred F. (Metcalf) Speelman and was a lifelong resident. In 1951, he entered the United States Navy and was active until 1955. On March 24, 1956, he married Shirley F. Simpkins, and she preceded him in death  May 11, 2022.

John worked for many years at American Chain and Cable in Adrian, retiring in 1988. During his free time, he enjoyed rabbit and pheasant hunting with his son Ken and brother Wade, fishing for suckers and carp and ice fishing with Shirley during the winter months. Hanging out with his brothers and riding his bike around Morenci were two of his other favorite pastimes.

He is survived by children Ken (and Jackie) Speelman and Cindy (and Steve) Crowell; grandchildren Stacy (and Stephen) Fiddie, Justin (and Dawn) Crowell, Jessica (and Greg) Negrete, Kayla Speelman, KC Speelman, and Shane (and Kayla) Speelman; nine great-grandchildren; and a special friend, Marilyn Bryant.

Along with his mother and wife, he was preceded in death by a grandson, Clint Crowell; brothers Arthur, Gerald and Wade Speelman; and sisters Ella Mae Barnhart, Juanita Shoemaker, Flora Montague, Florence Lane and Betty Pfund.

Graveside services will be private, with interment at Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci.

Memorial donations are suggested to Gentiva Hospice or the Alzheimer’s Association.

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

Robert Lee Ritsema, born Aug. 29, 1941, to Fred and Marion Ritsema, died July 22, 2024.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Barbara; children, the late Peter Ritsema, Claudia (and Mike) Spernock, Rodney Ritsema, and Ryan (and Sarah) Ritsema; nine grandchildren, the late Miguel, Anto, Ladi, Samuel, Nolan, Millie, Jackson, Sophia and Olivia; brother Fred (and Barbara) Ritsema, the late Ken (and Amy) Ritsema, and the late Marilyn Ritsema.

 Robert earned a master’s degree in physical education and spent his career teaching K-12 physical education, history, and sociology. His passion for coaching spanned more than 50 years, during which he guided and inspired countless students in cross country, wrestling, basketball and track.

He started his teaching and coaching career in 1965 in Morenci. He was later an assistant for Western Michigan University and coached for one year at Niles Brandywine. He became coach at Brighton High School in 1970. His cross country squads earned two state championships.

Beyond his professional achievements, Robert was known for his hands-on skills in construction, working as a plasterer in his youth before transitioning to drywalling. His favorite summer retreats were Grand Haven and Tawas, where he enjoyed countless family vacations. 

Robert’s commitment to helping others extended to mission trips to Mexico, where he built casitas for those in need. He was a revered coach and teacher, admired by students and colleagues alike for his dedication, wisdom, and kindness. Robert’s legacy of compassion, leadership, and service will be deeply missed.

https://www.livingstondaily.com/story/news/local/community/brighton/2024/07/26/brighton-high-school-cross-country-coach-bob-ritsema-dies-ritz/74548464007/

Michael Joe Thompson—Mike to some, Zeke to most—died May 22, 2025, in Hamilton, Ind., at the age of 65.

Mike was born Jan. 20, 1960, in Columbus, Ohio, to Vernon and Almeda (Williams) Thompson. Mike was a proud graduate of the Morenci Class of 1978. He married the love of his life, Nancy Pontious, on Dec. 28, 1978. They just celebrated 46 years of marriage.

Mike was a hard worker his whole life. He worked at M&S Manufacturing, starting out in the Morenci plant then transferring to Hudson. His work journey then moved to General Broach, followed by Wilbur-Ellis. In his most recent job, he drove and delivered parts for Roth Fabricating, which he enjoyed very much.

Mike loved playing softball and coaching his son, Jason, throughout Little League. As his kids got older, he would become their coach on the diamond with men’s softball and a co-ed team. Every weekend would be spent playing ball and being with family and friends. Mike beamed with pride when Jason presented him with a World Championship softball ring that he had won this past fall.

As the seasons passed, Mike enjoyed hunting with his son and grandkids, fishing, making his family laugh with the poetry he would write and share, and cheering from the sidelines as the grandkids played sports. Mike loved sitting out front of his house in the evenings and talking to friends as they passed by. In the winter months Mike was often flying around the backroads chasing coyotes with a great group of hunters. He spent time cleaning the neighbors’ snow covered sidewalks and mowing their yards in the summer, which he enjoyed. Mike loved and looked forward to the Saturday cookouts surrounded by his family, playing cornhole, making his famous no-bakes and cooking chicken. Mike was a diehard Pittsburgh Steelers fan, which he passed down to his son and a few grandsons.

Mike is survived by his wife Nancy; children Kristie Thompson (and Brian Hobbs), Jason (and Angela) Thompson, Amy (and Eric) Dunn, all of Morenci, and Angela (and James) Fipps of Auburndale, Fla.; nine grandchildren, Kevin, Ally, Alyssa, Dalton, Parker, Landon, Mikah, Jaelyn and Jayse. Mike was blessed with the arrival of his ninth great-grandchild, Maliyah in January just missing his birthday by seven days.

Mike is survived by a brother, David (and Brenda) Thompson.

Mike will be missed by many family members, friends and friends who became family throughout his life. Mike believed in his mother’s motto, “To have a friend, you have to be a friend.”

He was proceeded in death by his parents Vernon Thompson, Almeda and Russ Overmyer; mother-in-law Elaine Pontious and father-in-law George Pontious.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 28, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 29, at Seneca Community Church.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for future designation.

Ronald Lee Wright, 72, of Morenci, Mich., died May 21, 2025, at Hospice of Lenawee Hospice Home.

He was born July 5, 1952, in Bristol, Tenn., the son of Joseph and Helen (Pittman) Wright. On Aug. 29, 1970, he married Freda Childers, and she survives. 

Ronald retired from Adrian Steel after 35 years of service. In his younger years, he built hot rods with Dodge and Chrysler cars. He loved being outdoors, especially cutting wood. Ronald enjoyed spending time with his family, especially baby-sitting his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife Freda, he is survived by children, Gary (and Rossanna) Wright, Sandra (and Salvatore) Grippi, April (and Darrel) Shaffer, Stacey (and Kent) Emerson and Marybeth (and Brian) Johnson; 14 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; and siblings Patricia Pence and Daniel Wayne Wright.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son Ronald Lee Wright; and five brothers.

Funeral services will begin at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 25, at Purse Funeral Home, Adrian, with Dr. Samuel Wickard officiating. Burial will follow in Porter Packard Cemetery, Seneca Township, Mich. Visitation is planned from 2 p.m. Sunday until the time of service at the funeral home.

Elida Hernandez Molina, 87, of Fayette, Ohio, died May 16, 2025, at Fairlawn Haven in Archbold, Ohio.

Born Aug. 30, 1937, in Weslaco, Texas, she was the daughter of Amador and Sebastiana (Vasquez) Hernandez.

Elida married Marcos David Molina in 1956 in Arkansas, and they settled in Fayette in 1963. Together, they raised seven sons and enjoyed 46 years of marriage until his death on New Years Day 2002.