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.

Elida worked more than 23 years at the former Fayette Tubular Products, alongside her husband, prior to her retirement. She proudly taught herself how to write and read both Spanish and English, and grew profoundly in her Christian faith over the years.

Family was most important to Elida, and she loved any opportunity for a family gathering, where she was welcoming to all and made sure there was plenty of food to be enjoyed.

She and Marcos took many trips across the country to visit extended family. As years passed, she enjoyed the blessings of her grandchildren, whom she adored. In recent years, she also enjoyed crossword puzzles, coloring, adding to her vast collection of ladybugs, and sitting quietly outside. She was faithfully attending Templo La Hermosa in Bryan, Ohio, until recent health issues.

She is survived by sons Marcos David (and Lydia) Molina Jr. of Ft. Wayne, Ind., Amador (and Gloria) Molina of Columbus, Ohio, Reynaldo (and Michelle) Molina of Nettle Lake, Ohio, Victor Molina of Fayette, Fabion (and Marisol) Molina of Fayette and Mitch Molina of Fayette; daughter-in-law Anna Molina of Wauseon, Ohio; siblings Miguel (and Beatrice) Hernandez of Defiance, Ohio, Ebidio Hernandez of Fostoria, Ohio, Lydia Hernandez of Defiance, Asencion Hernandez of Fostoria, and Dominga Gonzalez of Georgia; 17 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by  brother Jose Hernandez; son Joseph H. Molina; and grandson-in-law Joe Bohner.

Funeral arrangements for Elida are pending with Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette, and service details will be posted in the coming days. 

Vera Lucile (Parsell) Hopkins, 91, of Fayette, Ohio, died May 9, 2025, at her residence, after a long battle with cancer, under the loving care of her family.

She was born in Jackson Township, Wyandot County, Ohio, to Marion and Mildred (Quail) Parsell, on June 11, 1933. Vera graduated from Marseilles High School in 1951 and attended Fort Wayne Bible College where she met Earl Hopkins, Jr. They wed on March 20, 1954, in Fort Wayne. He preceded her in death Sept. 26, 2003, after 49 years together.

As a young girl, Vera accepted Jesus as her savior and strove to live for Christ. Along with being a minister’s wife for many years, Vera and Earl served as missionaries for three years in Venezuela as part of New Tribes Mission. Once her children could care for themselves, she worked as a bank teller in Fayette. In her retirement years, Vera played the accordion for the Sunshine Class at Pettisville Missionary Church. Watching birds, especially hummingbirds, brought Vera much joy. A huge sports fan, Vera often watched tennis, Ohio State football and the Detroit Tigers on television. She attended the U.S. Open for tennis at Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City and a World Series game in Detroit to cheer on the Tigers.

Vera is survived by children Timothy (and Beth) of Fayette, Mark (and Carla) of Lakeview, Ark., Sara (and John) Wright of Nixa, Mo., Marinel Hopkins of Springfield, Mo., Ronnalee (and Norman) Riley of Tecumseh, Mich., and Dina (and Aaron) Gladieux of Fayette; 17 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; sisters Wanda Stout and Estell Bowers; and sisters-in-law Helen Dunshee, Pauline Sonius, Pat (and Ken) McKenzie, Ann (and Bill) Keucher and Virginia (and Larry) Schneider.

Along with her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by seven brothers and two sisters and their spouses.

Visitation is planned from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Saturday, May 17, at the Fayette Church of the Nazarene, when the memorial service will begin. Pastor John Horning will officiate. Inurnment of remains will be private at West Franklin Cemetery.

Memorial donations are suggested to Fulton County Senior Center Meals on Wheels Program.

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

David J. Blair, 86, of Medina Township, Mich., died May 5, 2025, at the home of his youngest daughter Pamela Elarton. 

David was born June 5, 1938, in Morenci, Mich., to Charles and Viola (Snyder) Blair-Little. On Aug. 16, 1958, David married Ruth Ann Loveland at Fairfield Baptist Church, and she preceded him in death in 2002.

David was a member of the Medina Federated Church and was part of the empty nesters group through the church. He enjoyed farming, roller skating, fishing and playing cards. He was a member of the Ameraucana Alliance and loved attending the Ameraucana Alliance National meets from 2016  to 2024, where he won Reserve Champion Ameraucana overall in 2020 with a bantam brown and red Ameraucana cockerel. He also loved collecting anything with Coca-Cola on it. 

David was employed at American Chain and Cable until he retired in 1986. He opened up the Fayette Western Skating Rink in Fayette, Ohio, in 1983.

David is survived by daughters Janice M. (and Bob) Hegert of Adrian, Mich., and Pamela S. (and Jeff) Elarton of Medina, Mich.; nephew/son Russ (and Nicole) Blair of Jasper, Mich.; grandchildren Brian (and Cami) Court of Adrian, Danielle (and Jason) Shipman of Palmyra, Mich., Amanda (and Steven) Williams of Adrian, Nichole (and Keenan) Hannigan of Chisholm, Minn., Joshua (and Gabby) Elarton of Sand Creek, Mich., Aaron (and Janelle) Elarton of Hudson, Mich., J.J. (and Hilary) Elarton of Hudson, and Nathanael Elarton of Hudson; great-grandchildren Jazmine, Matthew, Alivia, Emilee, Zoe, Issac, Ellanoria, Payton, River, August, Immelia and Willow, and baby Bailey Ruth Ann due in June.

Visitation is planned from 1 to 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, at Medina Federated Church, with a Celebration of Life service taking place at 2 p.m., with Pastor Darren Lemmon officiating. Burial will take place at a later date at Greens Lakeside Cemetery in Manitou Beach, Mich.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee or to the Medina Federated Church. 

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

James Philip Schaedler, 84, of Waldron, Mich., died April 28, 2025, at his home, in the loving care of his family and Elara Caring Hospice.

He was born Aug. 28, 1940, in Whiteford Township, Mich., to Carl and Florence (Clampitt) Schaedler.

In 1968, James was married to Connie Goetz of Blissfield, Mich. They shared four children together, and she preceded him in death November 1978.

On July 2, 1980, Jim married Pauline “Polly” (Briskey) Wines, and they joined their two families together.

Jim worked his early years at Willys Overland Motors and as a dairy farmer. Jim started Schaedler Farm Drainage in 1975, which remains in operation today.

In addition to his wife, Polly, he is survived by children Cheston (and Amy) Schaedler, Brett (and Renee) Schaedler, Leslie (and Lewis) Clemensen, Ryan (and Chesna) Schaedler, Laurie Michael, Michael (and Regina) Wines, and Phillip (and Jennifer) Wines; 17 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife Connie (Goetz) Schaedler; brother Harold (and Bernadine) Schaedler; sisters Doris (and Harley) Hartline and Maxine (and Lorus) Hall; grandson Cody Wines; and great-granddaughter Aria Lewis.

Visitation is planned from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 1, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Fayette. An additional hour of visitation is scheduled at the funeral home Friday, May 2, from 10 a.m. until the funeral service begins at 11 a.m. Pastor Kim Repp will officiate and burial will follow at Waldron Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Waldron District Library, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or Elara Caring Hospice.

Pauline M. Scott, 85, died April 11, 2025, at Fairlawn Haven Nursing Home in Archbold, Ohio, surrounded by her family. 

Pauline was born May 26, 1939, in Seneca Township, Mich., to Leslie and Gertrude (Good) Harris. She married Robert Scott and he preceded her in death in 2009. Pauline enjoyed playing cards and Bingo, watching game shows and going to the casino. She also loved spending time with her family, especially with her many generations of grandchildren. She also loved her dog Sam.

Pauline is survived by daughters Peggy (and Jim) Bachman, Debra Tremaine, Cindy (and Jeff) Cramer, and Barbara (and Randy, Sr.) Graham; nine grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson.

In addition to her husband, Robert, Pauline was preceded in death by son-in-law David Tremaine; granddaughters Elizabeth and Julia Cramer; sisters Susie Bentley, Betty Green, Irene Deck and Florence Bryan; and brothers Roger Harris, Lester Harris, Hal Harris, Leonard Harris, Dale Harris, Ervin Russell Harris and Stub Harris.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 15, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci. Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 16, at the funeral home, with grandson Benjamin Cramer officiating. The burial will be scheduled at a later date at Oak Gove Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Marlene Rose “Beaner” Disbrow, 84, of Lyons, Ohio, died April 8, 2025, at Fulton Manor Nursing Home in Wauseon, Ohio. 

She was born June 29, 1940, in Lyons on to Orville P. and Allis L. (Moe) Disbrow.  Marlene was a past member of East Chesterfield Church of Christ. She loved to work word finds and watch game shows on TV – her favorite being Supermarket Sweep.  She loved to spend time with her family and her love for pork and beans led her father to refer to her as “Beaner.”

 She is survived by her sister Joyce Bonin; nieces Michelle Skelly, Trudy (and Kurt) Weddington, and Cindy (and Brian) Black; nephew Sid (and Nikki) Disbrow; great-nieces and nephews Katelynn, Madelynn, Annabelle, Emily, Olivia, Treyden and Avery; and great-great-nephew River. 

Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Harvey Disbrow, and a nephew, Rodney.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 8 p.m.  Friday, April 11, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 12, also at the funeral home, with Rev. William VanValkenberg, officiating.  Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci.

Larry Floyd Mocherman, 84, of Morenci, Mich., died at his residence  March 27, 2025, under the care of Hospice of Lenawee.

He was born May 20, 1940, in Montpelier, Ohio, to Floyd H. and Elsie (Dally) Mocherman. After attending Montpelier High School, he married Louise Mansfield in Munson, Mich., on Oct. 14, 1961. Together, they had almost 64 years of marriage. Larry was a machine operator at Morenci Rubber Products for many years and retired from Demlows in 2007.

Larry was an avid card player, anything from euchre to solitaire. In his younger years, he loved to hunt and play softball, basketball, and football with his kids and grandkids. He loved attending sporting events and watching his favorite teams play on television. In his free time, he loved attending auctions and garage sales, and was a collector of antiques.

 In addition to his wife, Louise, Larry is survived by children Brent (and Donna) Mocherman, Kim (and Dave) Stiverson, and Ronda May; grandchildren Kortney Mocherman, Garrett May, Sarah (and Austin) Herman, Sydney Stiverson, Bailey (and Jackson) Langenderfer, Brittany (and Austin) Finnegan, Cooper (and Selina) Stiverson, and Ella Tyson; nine great-grandchildren; and his twin brother Jerry (and Nancy) Mocherman.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Pat VanAuken.

Visitation is planned from 1 to 3 p.m.  Tuesday, April 1, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. Funeral services will follow at 3 p.m., with Rev. Andy Reynard, officiating. Interment will be in Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci. Following interment, a dinner is planned at Fayette Church of the Nazarene where all are welcome.

Memorial donations are suggested to the family for future designation.

William Robert Hunter, Jr., 81, of Morenci, Mich., formerly of Westland,  Mich., died March 19, 2025, at Hospice of Lenawee Hospice Home in Adrian, Mich. 

He was born May 25, 1943, in Highland Park, Mich., the son of William Robert and Marie E. (Wells) Hunter, Sr.

After high school William joined the United States Army from 1962 to 1965. He married Pauline Cecile Breault on May 25, 1968, in Coventry, Rhode Island. They made their home in Westland before moving to Morenci in 1994. Bill worked at General Motors for 31 years, retiring in 1999.

Bill joined Morenci Bible Fellowship in 2015 and was a very active member and dearly loved the people of the church. He enjoyed mowing the baseball fields for Morenci Little League for many years and he loved the kids.

Bill is survived by many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a son, Stephen Rodney Hunter; his parents; brothers Gary and Brian Hunter; and sisters Sharon Hunter, Judith Hunter, Linda Hawkes, Sharon Hawkes and Beatrice Hawkes.

Funeral services will  begin at 11 a.m. Monday, March 24, at Morenci Bible Fellowship Church in Morenci, with Pastors Jim Yatzek and Brad Moran officiating. Visitation is planned from 10 a.m. Monday until the service begins. Burial will be at noon Tuesday, March 25,  at United Memorial Gardens in Plymouth, Mich.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee. 

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

Clair Franklin Friedhoff, 86, formerly of Fayette, Ohio, died March 21, 2025, at the home of his daughter in Bryan, Ohio.

He was born in Holgate, Ohio, the son of George and Florence (Punches) Friedhoff. Following the sudden death of his father when Clair was a toddler, he was later raised with the help of his stepfather Elvin Moore.

Clair married Marylene D. Osenbaugh on June 3, 1961, in Findlay, Ohio. They raised three daughters and celebrated 56 years together as husband and wife prior to her death on July 8, 2017.

Clair began employment processing eggs with IMCO in Deshler, Ohio, before being transferred to manage their plant in Waldron, Mich., in the early 1970s, prompting his family’s move to Fayette. Upon its closing, he transferred to A&A Poultry in West Unity, Ohio, until it closed. He finished his working career as a shop foreman with Lingvai Excavating in Bryan before his retirement, a job he absolutely loved. 

Never idle, Clair kept busy mowing grass, gardening, tinkering on odd jobs in his shop, driving around town, and searching for bargains at garage sales. He had a great appreciation for old cars and tractors. He loved spending time with family and friends and always was involved in the various events and achievements of his grandchildren. Clair always made time to enjoy coffee with his friends at the former R&H Restaurant in Fayette, where occasionally he would even partake in some local gossip.

His fun-loving spirit will always be remembered by his three daughters, Daun (and Sean) Pettit of Bryan; Lisa (and Miguel) Rodriguez of Fayette; and Kelly (and Robert) Snyder of Bryan; brother Dennis Moore of Hamler, Ohio; sisters Leona Hattery of Ottawa, Ohio, Myra (and Glen) Spangler of Hamler; sister-in-law Shirley (and Donald) Schortgen of Saddlebrook, Mo.; grandchildren Nichole, Josh (and Emily), Justin (and Mackenzie), Jason (and Taylor), Klay (and Alissa) and Britt; fifteen great-grandchildren, Conor, Bexley, Gabby (and Alex), Brynn, Nayah, Cecilia, Maddox, Mia, Dutton, Jayden and Camden, Landon, Haddie, Sorin and Elden.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in his death by sister Georgia Jones; brother Junior Moore; niece Heather Hattery; sister-in-law Annetta Moore; and brothers-in-law James Hattery and Robert Osenbaugh.

Visitation is planned from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 27, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. An additional visitation is scheduled at the funeral home on Friday, March 28, from noon until the service begins at 1 p.m., with Pastor Dan VanArsdalen officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette.

Memorial contributions are suggested to benefit Elara Caring Hospice, Filling Memorial Home of Mercy, or the Alvordton UB Church.

Richard G. Fredrick, 84, of Fayette, Ohio, died March 17, 2025, at home on his beloved farm.

He was born April 3, 1940, in Wauseon, Ohio, the firstborn son of DeWayne and Virginia (Dorsey) Fredrick.

 Dick grew up in Fayette and graduated from Gorham Fayette High School with the Class of 1958. He then proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army before taking college classes. On Nov. 30, 1963, Dick married Nedra F. Kauffman at Zion Mennonite Church in Archbold, Ohio. Together they raised two children and were blessed with more than 61 years of companionship before her recent passing Jan. 31, 2025.

Dick was employed with Parker Corporation in Morenci, Mich., for more than 30 years, serving his last years for the company as a traveling consultant for their various plants across the country. Dick also raised hogs and farmed for many years, eventually owning 220 acres of ground. He often worked alongside Nedra with her business, Country Class Catering. He and Nedra also co-owned the R&H Restaurant for many years, where Dick worked the cash register and enjoyed greeting the customers. 

Dick held memberships with the Fayette Christian Church-Disciples of Christ, the Morenci American Legion, Fulton County Farm Bureau, and the Pork Producers. He and Nedra enjoyed annual trips to Vegas and Florida throughout the years and enjoyed traveling nearby with their friends in the Stateline Camping Club.

Always easy-going and happy, Dick is remembered for his charm and silly humor in his love to make others laugh, and he always had a story to tell. His selflessness and generous spirit are traits that he exemplified all of his life. He was an excellent father as well as devoted caregiver to his wife during her years of ailing health.

Surviving are his daughter Kristie (and Kip) Humbert; son Jon (D.J.) Fredrick; grandchildren Storm (and Casey), Colt (and Bri), Slayde (and Mara), Rayce (and Marissa), and Braelyn Humbert; seven  great-grandchildren; brothers-in-law Larry (and Sally) and Lynn (and Maggie) Nofziger; and sisters-in-law Elaine Schnitkey and Helen Leu.

He was preceded in death by his brother Terry A. (and Rhonda) Fredrick; brothers-in-law Lonnie Nofziger, David Schnitkey and Ron Leu.

Visitation is planned from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, March 21, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Funeral services will also be at the funeral home on Saturday, March 22, at 11 a.m., with Pastor Vicki Schnitkey officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery, Fayette.

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

Mary E. “Molly” LeFaive, 82, of Ocean Pines, Del., died March 9, 2025, at Coastal Hospice at The Lake in Salisbury, Md.

She was born in Detroit, Mich., the daughter of Robert Harris and Mary (McElroy) Harris.

Molly had an extraordinary blend of kindness and curiosity that made everyone feel at home. Her core value of living by the Golden Rule, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” was apparent in all of her relationships—whether you knew her for ten minutes or ten years. She always made time for family and friends, making you feel as though nothing in the world was more important than the conversation you were having with her. She remembered the details that mattered, followed up, and made sure you knew just how much she cared.

Molly’s life was dedicated to nurturing others, first as a friend, teacher, wife and mother, later as counselor and volunteer. She taught high school and middle school English and speech for nearly 30 years, with students in Ohio, Michigan and Maryland. In the mid-nineties, she embarked on a second career, earning a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Tennessee, Memphis. She worked as a counselor for the Seaford School Department’s School-Based Health Center in Delaware until 2009. She loved counseling, and her natural inclination to hold safe, listening spaces for people lasted throughout her life.

An active congregant at the Community Church at Ocean Pines, Molly sang in the choir, played in the bell choir, participated in the Pastor’s Bible Study, and the intercessory prayer ministry. She was a member of the United Women in Faith, serving as vice president for a short time. She particularly enjoyed recording short devotions on the church’s social media network.

Molly stayed busy and found joy throughout her retirement: lunching with her dear friends in the Red Hat club, exercising at the local pool’s Creaky Joints classes, and engaging in various book clubs. She participated in the Democratic Women’s Club of Worcester County, and the Ocean City Lioness Club. As a volunteer with Coastal Hospice’s grief support team, she wrote notes to patients’ loved ones.

She is survived by her son Kenneth R. LeFaive (and Charita Connolley) of Bradenton, Fla.; her daughter Ruth LeFaive (and Andy Wolfe of Los Angeles, Calif.); her sister-in-law Connie Harris; grandchildren Samantha (and Samuel) Stern and Robert K.W. LeFaive, and their mother, Laurie LeFaive; and her great-grandson, Nathan Stern.

In addition to her parents, Molly was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Richard A. LeFaive, and her brother, Mac Harris.

A memorial service will be scheduled this spring at the Community Church at Ocean Pines in Berlin, Md.

Memorial donations are suggested to Community Church at Ocean Pines 11227 Racetrack Road, Berlin, MD 21811 and/or Coastal Hospice PO Box 1733, Salisbury, MD 21802.

Patricia Sue Sims, 72, of rural Albion, Mich., died March 12, 2025.

Pat was born Sept. 13, 1952, in Hudson, Mich., the daughter of the late William G. and Hazel L. (Biddix) VanValkenburg.

She graduated from Morenci Area High School and earned a nursing degree from Kellogg Community College.

On Feb. 2, 1974, Pat was united in marriage to Thomas R. Sims, who preceded her in death Aug. 5, 2024.

Pat was a long-time active member of Rice Creek Community Church. She was a proud farmer’s wife and nurse, but was especially proud of her grandchildren and loved spending time with them. Pat also loved to scrapbook.

She is survived by her children Melissa Sims and Matthew (and Nicki) Sims; grandchildren Braxton Sims and Maci Martens; sister Linda Dudonis; brother William VanValkenburg; several nieces and nephews, including special ones, LeeAnn Howard, Lynn (and Bryon) Colley, Pamela (and Jason) Cupp, Becky Rinck and Scott Rinck; as well as several great-nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m. Wednesday, March 19, at Kempf Family Funeral & Cremation Services, 723 U.S. Hwy. 27 North Marshall, MI 49068, with Pastor Dwight Hostetler officiating. Interment will follow at Riverside Cemetery in Albion, Mich. Visitation will take place at the funeral home on the day of the service from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

Memorial contributions are suggested  to Rice Creek Community Church.

John Edward Garrow, 86, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and lifelong farmer, died March 9, 2025, at Hospice of Northwest Ohio following a brief illness. 

Born and raised in rural Fayette, Ohio, Ed was the son of John Jay and Catherine (Keefer) Garrow. He graduated from Chesterfield High School in 1956. Ed dedicated his life to working the land, instilling in his family a deep appreciation for hard work, perseverance and the simple joys of life. 

For 67 years, Edward was the loving and steadfast husband of his high school sweetheart Wilma Jappsen. They were married Feb. 16, 1958, and she survives. Together, they built a life rooted in love and faith, raising a family that brought them immense pride and joy. His greatest happiness came from time spent with his family, whether in the fields, around the dinner tables, or on the back porch watching the sunset over his family’s centennial farm. 

Ed was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Morenci, Mich., where he served on church council. He was honored in 2000 as an outstanding volunteer for the Fulton County Fair and inducted into the Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2015. Ed’s hands told the story of his life—weathered from years of tending the soil, yet always ready to offer a firm handshake, a helping hand, or a comforting embrace. He was known for his unwavering work ethic, kind heart, and quiet wisdom. Ed lived a life of dedication—to his faith, his family, his farm, and his community.

Edward is survived by his wife Wilma, children Mark Garrow, Matt (and Jane) Garrow, Mitch (and Julie) Garrow, Myra (and Mark) Wolfrum; grandchildren Victoria (and Zac) Muehlfeld, Melanie Wolfrum and Erich Wolfrum; great-grandson Finnley Muehlfeld; sister Carolyn (and Terry) Waltz.

He was proceeded in death by his brother and sister-in-law Art and Audrey Garrow, and brother-in-law William Jappsen. 

A Christian funeral is planned at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 15, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Morenci, preceded by visitation from 9 to 11 a.m.  

Donations are suggested to Hospice of Northwest Ohio, Mercy Health Foundation for St. Vincent Medical Center, or a charity of the donor’s choice. 

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

Lowell Vernell Beaverson, 91, of Fayette, Ohio, died March 8, 2025, at Fairlawn Haven in Archbold, Ohio, surrounded by his daughters and under the care provided by Hospice of Northwest Ohio.

He was born Nov. 22, 1933, in Fayette, the son of Lowell T. and Lelia (Smith) Beaverson.

Lowell attended Gorham Fayette High School where he was active in FFA and 4-H and received the FFA State Farmer Degree. He graduated with the Class of 1951. Following high school, Lowell proudly served his country as a member of the United States Air Force. During his four-year tenure of service, he served in Korea and was honorably discharged in 1957, after being stationed in Washington, D.C. Returning to civilian life, he furthered his education first at the University of Maryland before obtaining a degree in Soil Conservation/Biological Sciences from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio.

Before moving  to Paw Paw, Mich., to work for Martin-Marietta Corporation in agricultural lime sales, Lowell married the former Ann Cox of Lyons, Ohio, and they were blessed with a family of five daughters. Returning to Fayette in 1964, Lowell purchased the former Pearl Weller Insurance Agency and made it his own, a business he operated in downtown Fayette for nearly 50 years until his retirement.

Dedicated to his community, Lowell was civically involved in numerous organizations, including a member of the Gorham Fayette Board of Education, a 20-year member of the Fulton County Board of Education, and 15 years with the Four County J.V.S Board. He was the proud recipient of the Ohio County Superintendents Outstanding Board Member Award in 1989. He was active with the Fayette Area Chamber of Commerce and the Fayette Lions Club where he served as past president, and was once recognized as Fayette Citizen of the Year.

He was a faithful member of the Fayette Christian Church, Disciples of Christ, where he served as a deacon and elder. Lowell was recognized for being a generous donor to the American Red Cross, donating blood as often as he was allowed almost his entire life. Lowell also enjoyed capturing moments of life from behind the camera, developing a love for photography at a young age that continued throughout his life.

Lowell is survived by four daughters, Lisa Beaverson, Karen (and Marty) Claussen, Ellen Beaverson (and Dennis Keefer), and Susan Beaverson (and Ron Hottmann, Jr.); seven grandchildren, Samantha, Amanda, Adam (and Ania), Logan (and Lauren), Taylor, Triston (and Chyna), and Meaghan; and three great-grandchildren, Carter, Colt and Felix.

Lowell was preceded in death by daughter Jana Sue Beaverson; sisters Juanita Brehm and Dolores Schaffner;  granddaughter Ann Marie Beaverson; and his companion of many years, Arlene Wilson.

Visitation is planned from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 11, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 12, at the funeral home, with Rev. Gene Sugg officiating. A committal service with military honors performed by the Fulton County Honor Guard will follow in Pleasant View Union Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Fayette Lions Club, the American Red Cross, or a local humane society.

Julia Sweet Bachi, 90, of Adrian, Mich., died peacefully March 1, 2025, at Adrian Bay Rehab and Nursing Center, with family by her side.

She was born Aug. 14, 1934, in Adrian, to Milburn and Hilda (Barber) Reattoire. Julie worked as an in-home health assistant for various families in Ann Arbor before transitioning to a role as a desk clerk at the Holiday Inn in Adrian.  

Julie had a deep love for music and enjoyed playing the piano. She found great joy in flower gardening and eagerly awaited the blooming of her favorite flowers each year, especially lilacs. Sunday drives were a cherished pastime for her, offering moments of peace and reflection. Known for her feisty spirit, Julie took great pride in her appearance and always loved getting her hair done.

Julie is survived by sons Norman (and Janet) Sweet, Charles (and Roxann) Sweet, David (and Judy Fee) Sweet, Robb Sweet, Herman Jr. (and Jamie) Sweet, and Michael Sweet; ten grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; son Harlan Sweet; and brothers Gary and Frederick Speelman.

Funeral services were March 6, with Pastor Fritz Kruse officiating. Burial followed at Dover Center Cemetery.

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

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

Loree Ellen Clark-Castor, 95, of Bryan, Ohio, died Feb. 25, 2025, at Evergreen Manor. 

She was born July 2, 1929, in Munson, Mich., the daughter of the late Rush W. and Rhea E. (Borton) Taylor. She attended Gorham-Fayette Schools, graduating in 1947. On June 17, 1950, she married DeLoy “Dee” Clark in Munson, and he preceded her in death on June 30, 2008. She married Merlin Castor on Nov. 18, 2011, in Bryan, and he survives. 

Throughout her lifetime, Loree held several jobs including an assistant at Waldron Schools, secretary at Leininger Lumber and Waldron Implement, house-keeping at Lugbill’s, and working at Morenci Rubber Products. She also owned and operated a cake decorating  business and a cleaning service. 

Loree was a very faithful person, sharing Jesus with anyone who would listen. She attended the United Brethren Church in Munson, Waldron Wesleyan Church where she was instrumental in creating and was director of the Christian Youth Conference (CYC) Group, and most recently, attended Lifesource Church of the Nazarene in Bryan. She loved listening to gospel music and was a faithful attendee at the Gospel Barn in Hillsdale, Mich. 

She was an excellent cook and baker, and often canned for her family. Loree was a highly energetic person who enjoyed traveling, cake decorating, reading and tending to her flower gardens. Her family describes her as the queen of the board game Cha Ching (Sequence) and Dominoes. In keeping with the tradition of her father, she was famously known for having a guest book in her home, and anyone who visited would sign.

In addition to her husband, Merlin, she is survived by children Peggy (and John) Clark-Salone, Philip (and Champawati) Clark, Thomas (and Connie) Clark, and Troy Clark; step-children Kent (and Sandra) Castor and Deb (and Glen) Lautermilch; grandchildren Gina (and Doug) Marchand, Jessica (and Doug) Prentiss, Jordan Clark, Josiah (and Jordyn) Clark, and Cristen (and Josh) Merillat; great-grandchildren Taylor Prentiss, Kaylen Prentiss, Blake (and Austin) Owens, Elsie and Emmett Clark, Ariannah and Ellie Merillat; step-grandchildren Jeff (and Heather) Salone, Jennifer Salone; step-great-grandchildren Hope Hartley, Gabby Marchand Mackenzie and Finley Salone; step-great-great-grandchildren Jordan and Miah Flores; brother Paul (and Eileen) Taylor; and sister Ruth (and Paul) Johnson.  

Along with her parents and first husband, she was preceded in death by a great-grandson, Shawn; brothers Wayne (and Janice) and Ray (and Barbara) Taylor; and sisters Mildred (and Wayne) Uhler, Carol (and Phil) Fiedler, and Leah (and Bruce) Rutledge.

Visitation is planned from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, March 7, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette, followed by the funeral service at 6 p.m. Pastor Jared Burgess from Lifesource Church of the Nazarene will officiate. Inurnment will be scheduled at a later date in Pleasant View Union Cemetery in Fayette. 

Memorial donations are suggested to Lifesource Church of the Nazarene in Bryan. 

Edward J. Hitt, 84, of Morenci, Mich., died peacefully at his residence Feb. 13, 2025, under the care of Hospice of Lenawee.

He was born in Charlottesville, Va., to James Albert and Lilly Lee (Busby) Hitt. Ed was raised in and attended school in Maryland. He married his soulmate, Marilyn K. Dillon, not once but two times, Aug. 2, 1980, and again on June 18, 1989.

Ed worked hard all his life. As a young man, he helped his father with his tree service business, and continued tree work for quite some time. He worked many jobs at horse race stables as well as working as a roofer, factory worker and water tower painter, including the one in his back yard in Morenci. He was always busy whether at home or work; you couldn’t slow him down. He loved his family and friends and made sure they all knew it. He loved being outside no matter how hot or cold though he preferred warm weather so he could ride his Harley.

He is survived by his children James Edward Hitt and Amanda Jo (and Rodney) Price; grandchildren Cody A Dunn, Eric (and Amber) Hitt, Tiffany (and Staci) Hittman, Joseph Hitt, and Cody Hitt; two great-grandchildren, Evangeline Hitt and Ellie Hitt; and a brother, Robert Hitt.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn K Hitt; both parents; sisters Mona Jean (in infancy), Emma Abbey, Mary Wilke and Anne Ploured-Norris; brothers Milton Hitt and Ralph Hitt; in-laws William (Bubby) Dillon and Phyllis Ann Dillon; and brother-in-law James Joe Dillon.

Visitation is scheduled from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 22, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci, with funeral services beginning at 4 p.m. Hospice of Lenawee Chaplain Bobby Baum will officiate and cremation will follow. Inurnment will take place at a later date in Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci.

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

Sharon Smith, 84, of Morenci, Mich., died Jan. 30, 2025, at her home, with her family and caregivers by her side.

Born June 4, 1940, near Clayton, Mich., she was the youngest child born of the union of Carl and Dorothy (Reid) Hanlin. 

Sharon lived her formative years in the Clayton area and settled in Morenci in her married years. She married Bill Smith on Jan. 25, 1975, in Angola, Ind. Together they raised two daughters and just celebrated their 54th anniversary.

Possessing a strong work ethic, Sharon always worked hard in helping provide for her family. She worked at various jobs including in the cafeteria at Bixby Hospital, Morenci Rubber Products, and most recently at Haas Door in Wauseon, where she was second in tenure of all the employees there. She notably retired at age 80, only due to breaking a hip.

Sharon was active in the Clayton Girl Scouts, the Clayton Extension Club, and most recently the “coffee club” at Burger King in Wauseon. A lover of the outdoors, in her spare time Sharon loved deer hunting, snowmobile riding, and camping in her travel trailer at Hogback Lake in Angola. Her favorite pastimes were coordinating a meal out of the house and supporting the various events of her beloved grandchildren. Sharon is remembered for her genuine ways, her spunky demeanor, and her big heart.

Surviving in addition to her husband, Bill, are her two daughters, Julie (and Mark) Borton of Wauseon, Ohio, and Kim Nortley of Morenci; four grandchildren, Chad (and Sarah), Michael (and Heather), Tim (and Jessica), and Nicole (and Scott); 11 great-grandchildren, Haleigh, Gia, Hannah, Noah, Josiah, Ally, Makayla, Mariah, Caden, Kinley, and Kyser; and a great-great-granddaughter who arrived three days before her passing, Maliyah.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by all of her siblings, June DeBenedetto, Bud Hanlin, Norma Woodby, and Joyce Hanlin; and a son-in-law, Timothy Nortley.

Visitation is planned at noon at the First Congregational Church of Morenci on Friday, Feb. 7, followed  by a Celebration of Life at 1 p.m. Her grandson Pastor Michael Borton will officiate. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to Elara Caring Hospice, whose care the family is especially grateful for. 

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

Woodrow Wilson Warner, Jr., 84, formerly of Packard Rd., Seneca, Mich., died Jan. 27, 2025, at Country View of Sunbury in Sunbury, Ohio.

He was born Dec. 29, 1940, at Bixby Hospital in Adrian, the son of Woodrow and Daisy Pauline (Kelly) Warner. Woody grew up in Adrian, where he graduated from high school in 1959.

Woody worked several years for Aget Manufacturing in Adrian before relocating to Arizona for a year in 1976. Returning to Michigan, he worked at several retail stores in the Adrian area, served as a Lenawee County Sheriff deputy, and worked at Swenk-Tuttle Press where he met his future wife. Woody married Rosalie Ann (Tuttle) Schoonover on Oct. 3, 1987, in Seneca. They shared 33 years together as husband and wife before her death Dec. 4, 2020.

Working well into his 70s, Woody’s last 20 years of employment were spent working as a bank courier for First Federal Bank, a job he absolutely loved. He worshipped at the Seneca Community Church and later the Weston First Baptist Church, and was a proud member of the Morenci Sportsman’s Club. He loved watching and hunting deer, and possessed an extensive firearm collection. He also loved to read, especially Western novels, and was known to read an entire book in a day. He also had a big heart for cats and lovingly welcomed many into his care over the years. Woody loved people and never knew a stranger; he was happiest when in the company of others.

Surviving are his daughters, Melissa (and Mark) Garland, Judy (and Steve) McHan, Jacquie Crow, and a daughter-in-law Cathy Schoonover; his brother, Larry (and Nancy) Warner; eight grandchildren; Mark (and Nawana) McHan, Sam (and Ashley) McHan, Garrett (and Mayela) Schoonover, Hannah (and Dylan) Thompson, Joshua Garland, Michael (and Alex) Garland, Jeremiah (and Steven) Garland and James Garland; nephew Steve (and Tish) Warner; and great-nephew, Taygan. He is also survived by 15 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Lucy Warner; son, Jeffery Schoonover; and great-granddaughter, Gianna Schoonover.

Visitation at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci, is scheduled from noon until 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 31. Funeral service begin at 2 p.m. with Pastor Duane Cross officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to a local humane society of the donor’s choice.

Steven C. Winch, 74, of Morenci, Mich., died Jan. 20, 2025, at the Hospice of Lenawee House surrounded by his loving family.

He was born April 1, 1950, in Adrian, Mich., to Beverly (Miller) Winch.

A proud veteran, Steven was drafted into the United States Army on Feb. 6, 1970, during the Vietnam War, and served until April 5, 1971. Upon returning home, Steven began working at Stauffer Chemical (now Evonik) in Weston, Mich. He worked there for many years as a process operator and part-time foreman before retiring.

On July 16, 1973, Steven married Patricia Zook in Morenci. Together they raised a family of four children and celebrated a loving partnership of more than 51 years. Steven had a gift for connecting with people—he never met a stranger and made friends wherever he went. Known for his humor, he delighted in sharing the same two jokes with everyone he met.

Steven found immense joy in life’s simple pleasures and the beauty of nature. He cherished his time at the cabin, where he delighted in bird watching, mushroom hunting, and occasionally deer hunting. Steven had a passion for collecting rocks and he made it a cherished routine to venture out into the fields to find rocks with Pat. His love for discovery extended to estate sales, where he was always on the lookout for a great deal to add to his collection of bargains. He also enjoyed spending time with loved ones and friends through activities like playing euchre and working on puzzles. A devoted fan of “The Young and the Restless,” Steven faithfully watched his favorite soap opera every afternoon with Pat from 12:30 to 1:30 pm without interruption.

He had a knack for tinkering in the barn and took pride in crafting special items for his family. Christmas was particularly meaningful to him; he made it magical every year, even as his children grew older. Steven also had a fondness for cheeseburgers and was known for making a delicious vegetable soup.

Steven is survived by his loving wife, Pat; four children, Lisa (and John) Cox, Mark Martin, Kelli (and Dave McDorman) Neidemire, and Holly Coler; 12 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; siblings Gordon (and Karen) Winch, Roger (and Theresa) Winch, Jeff (and Charlette) Winch, Peggy (and Dennis) Crochet, and Robin Coffman.

Steven was preceded in death by his aunt Winifred Winch, and niece Amy Cozart.

Visitation is scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m. and 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 23, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 24, also at the funeral home,  with Pastor Bruce Jewett officiating. Burial will follow at Packard Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Morenci Sportsman’s Club or Hospice of Lenawee.

Ricardo C. Villalovos, 69, of Fayette, Ohio, died at home Jan. 17, 2025.

He was born Jan. 10, 1956, to Edmundo and Guadalupe Villalovos in San Antonio, Texas. He put 25 years of hard work and dedication as a maintenance man at the Salvation Army in Colorado Springs. He attended New Hope International church where he was a dedicated and faithful member. He loved his dog Vera and prioritized family. You could find him binge watching his favorite western TV series, Gunsmoke.

Ricardo is survived by his children Heather Villalovos (and David Stephens) and Ronnie Snyder; grandchildren Tristan Hogan, Gabriel Hogan and Angelique Hogan; brothers and sisters Ray (and Joanie) Villalovos, Pete (and Deborah) Villalovos, Roger (and Patricia) Villalovos, Olga (and Ismael) Lerma, Robert (and Amalia) Villalovos, Evangelina Cruz, Ruben (and Barb) Villalovos, Eddie (and Jay) Villalovos, Belan Villalovos, Barb (and Rick) Moden, Arleen (and Leslie) Lindsay, and Eric (and Brandy) Villalovos; numerous nieces and nephews. 

He was proceeded in death by his wife Karen Villalovos; his parents; his sister Debbie Villalovos; his niece Sara Nichole Villalovos; and his great-nephew Nicholas Raul Saldivar.

A memorial service will be planned at New Hope International on a later date, along with a celebration of life.

Donna Lucille (Farmer) Roth-Dickson, 93, of Fayette, Ohio, died Jan. 7, 2025, at Swanton Valley Center, under the care of SouthernCare Hospice.

She was born in Defiance County on Dec. 10, 1931, to Lloyd and Edith (Kuhn) Farmer. Donna attended and graduated from Tiffin Township School in Defiance County.  She married Dorwin Jay Roth on March 9, 1953, and he preceded her in death on Sept. 2, 1985.  She then married David H. Dickson, Jr., on Sept. 19, 1987, and he also preceded her in death on Nov. 22, 2019.

Donna worked as an administrative assistant for the principal of Gorham Fayette Schools for many years, until her retirement. In her free time, she enjoyed knitting, keeping an amazing garden, and square dancing.  She also had a talent of keeping kids in line. Donna was a member of Fayette Methodist Church for many years. 

Donna is survived by her children Rodney (and Maryann) Roth, Larry (and Carol) Roth, and Linda (and Robert) Rothballer; step-children Kathleen and Rebecca “Becky” Dickson, and Melissa (and Chris) Christenson; grandchildren Rebecca (and Seth) Finnegan, Elizabeth (and Adam) Rissmiller, Timothy (and Hannah) Roth, Jeremy (and DeAnna) Roth, Tacha (and Todd Rowe) Roth, Olivia (and Kevin) Yeupell, Nicholas Roth, Adam Rothballer, and Abby (and Ryan) Ray; great-grandchildren Hannah, Isaac, Lily and James Finnegan, Ethan, Abigail and Ellana Rissmiller, Julia, Sophia, Jack, Judah, Olivia, Emmaline, Ratianna, Jordan and William Roth, Justin and Katelyn Yeupell, and Harper Ray; step-grandchildren Ethan (and Jana) and Megan Baker; step-great-grandchildren Benjamin and James Baker; and a sister, Thelma Gasthe.

She was preceded in death by her parents and both husbands.

Visitation is planned from 10 a.m. until noon Saturday, Jan. 25, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Funeral services will immediately follow at noon, with Pastor Mark Stiver officiating. Interment will be in Pleasant View Union Cemetery, Fayette.

Memorial donations are suggested to the family for future designation.

Stephanie Marie Knepper, 39, of Toledo, Ohio, died Jan. 3, 2025, at Toledo Promedica Hospital, surrounded by loved ones. 

Stephanie was born Sept. 26, 1985, in Morenci, Mich., to Muriel White (Amos) and Ted Reimer.

Stephanie was known as a loving mother, daughter, sister and friend.

She is survived by her children Riley (and Jadyn) Beville, Taylor Knepper and Andrew Lotz; fiancé William Shellenbarger; father Quincy Amos; brothers Joshua (and Victoria) Amos and Teddy Reimer, Jr.; sisters Brooke Robinson, Madison Amos, Amber (and David) Harrison, Johnna (and Alex) Shinn and Anna Reimer; grandmother Sandra Borton; along with multiple nieces and nephews.

Stephanie was preceded in death by her mother, Muriel Amos.

A celebration of life is planned at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, at Medina Federated Church in Medina, Mich., with Pastor Darren Lemmon officiating. 

Rose Mary Pontious, 85, of Alvordton, Ohio, died Jan. 16, 2025, surrounded by family members.

She was born Sept. 17, 1939, to Joseph and Rose Repka. Rose Mary married James Eisel on Nov. 16, 1957, and later married James Pontious on June 7, 1980. 

She treasured her life as a homemaker and a mother. As her children grew, she worked in accounting and bookkeeping for Leininger Home Supply, Mendellson Egg Company and AirMate prior to her retirement. She attended Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Fayette, Ohio, and was a very active parishioner. Rose Mary enjoyed music, sewing, crafts, ceramics, water aerobics and making rugs. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family playing cards, games and puzzles, putting up sweet corn, making noodles, camping or just visiting.

Rose Mary is survived by six children, Ron (and Pat) Eisel, Jim (and Pam) Eisel, Bob (and Bobbie) Eisel, Sandra (and George) Gagle, Randy (and Becky) Eisel, and Scott (and Michelle) Eisel; son-in-law Bob Momyer; sister Betty Upell; 24 grandchildren and 41 great-grandchildren. 

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands James Eisel and James Pontious; and daughter Mary Jane Momyer. 

Visitation will begin at 3 p.m. Monday, Jan. 20, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette, and conclude with a vigil prayer service at 7 p.m. A funeral mass will be celebrated by Father Bill Pifher at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 21, at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Fayette. Rite of Committal will take place privately at Our Lady of Fatima Cemetery near Lyons. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to Our Lady of Mercy Church or the Crisis Pregnancy Centers of Northwest Ohio.

Freddy Armstrong, 87, of Fayette,  Ohio, died Jan. 9, 2025, at University of Toledo Medical Center.

He was born Nov. 9, 1937, in Delta, Ohio, to Leo Milton and Irene (Riddle) Armstrong. Fred attended Gorham Fayette Schools, graduating in 1955. In 1956, he married Sandra Seeley, and they had three children together. For the last 25 plus years he has been with his companion, Doris Barker.

Fred worked various construction jobs in his lifetime, building such things as military bases and post offices. He also owned his own plumbing and heating business, and most recently, Armstrong Excavating. He was a farmer his entire life as well, raising his favorite cattle – purebred Angus.

Fred was a very creative and knowledgeable person. He could fix anything and loved to teach people how to do things. He loved to talk to anyone as he knew no strangers. Fred was a member of the Gorham-Fayette Fire Department for more than 20 years, of the  Shriners for more than 60 years, and also the Masonic Lodge.

Surviving is his partner Doris Barker; children Cynthia and Lisa Armstrong; grandchildren Heath Armstrong, Crystal Winch and Heather Nosker; great-grandchildren Carson, Magpie, Jacob, Caroline, Cameron and Bailey; and sisters Margaret (and Fred) Berg and JoAnn (and James) McLaughlin.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by a son Gregory; grandsons Bradley and Brian Winch; daughter-in-law Susan Armstrong; and brothers David and Lamont Armstrong.

Visitation is planned from 2 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 16, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 17, also at the funeral home, with Rev. William VanValkenburg officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery, Morenci.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Fayette Fire Association.

Ruth L. Hutchison, 96, of Fayette, Ohio, died Jan. 7, 2025.

She was born Ruth Lorrine Mahon on Aug. 17, 1928, in Detroit, Mich., to William and Lena Mahon. Ruth graduated from Wauseon High School in 1946 and married Richard “Dick” Hutchison on July 10, 1948.

Ruth owned her own beauty salon, The Kurly-E-Kue, for 15 years. When she sold the salon, she worked at various businesses includingt Red & White grocery store, Fayette’s nursing home, Evergreen High School and eventually ending her career at Fayette High School as a study hall monitor and library aide for 37 years. She held a special feeling for all of the students regardless of whether she had to scold them or not. At 85 years old, she instilled manners and respect, and offered a listening ear to those receptive teenagers. Two years later, Ruth earned  a bachelor’s degree in bible studies, indicating that education was important to her no matter age.

Ruth was a proud resident of Fayette for more than 70 years and was very active in the community. She served as Fayette’s Normal Memorial Library board president for more than 50 years, was a member of the Christian Church of Disciples where she directed the junior choir and filled in as pianist when needed, played an active role in Fayette’s Opera House and was a member of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary for more than 80 years. In 2008 Ruth was chosen  Fayette’s Citizen of the Year during the annual Bull Thistle Festival.

Ruth’s greatest treasure was her family. She attended all the activities of her children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren such as sporting events, band and choir concerts, plays, grandparents day, graduations – the list is endless. Ruth designed costumes for their special events and played sports and other games with them throughout the years, never slowing down. She was their biggest cheerleader in all of their accomplishments.

Music and the arts were an integral part of Ruth’s life. Her father and uncle played in the Detroit Symphony and the U.S. Army Band during World War I. Ruth played the clarinet, saxophone, piano, flute and almost any other instrument she could get her hands on. She directed Fayette’s 5th and 6th grade band, directed school plays at Fayette High School, participated in local plays, and for 20 years was a member of “The Pretenders,” a Fayette group that impersonated celebrities such as Liberace, Edith Ann, Carol Channing, Ernestine the telephone operator and Phyllis Diller. Ruth was a member of the Delta Community Band and her latest gig was playing in Fayette’s Kitchen Band – spoons, pot lids and all.

Ruth’s legacy is one of love, compassion, smiles, hugs and service. She touched the lives of countless people during her lifetime and her impact will continue to be felt for years to come. Ruth’s life was a testament to the power of the human spirit and her positive outlook on life.

She is survived by her children William “Bill” (and Deb) Hutchison and Linda (and Juan) Nanez; grandchildren Kyle (and Becky) Hutchison, Paul (and Sara) Nanez, Neil (and Meg Perry) Nanez, Nicole (and Jake) Bilek, Russ Ryder, Jeremy Cleaves and Tim (and Laurie) Reynolds, 10 great-grandchildren, five great-great-grandchildren; nieces Julie Marcell and Peggy Studebaker; nephews Richard Lee Shipman and Rollin Shipman.

Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Dick; her parents; sister Dolores Zimmer and foster daughter Vera Sallows. 

A memorial graveside service will be scheduled at a later date. Memorial donations are suggested to the Fayette Opera House, Fayette Normal Memorial Library or the Fayette American Legion Ladies Auxiliary.

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

Joshua J Gallup, born May 4, 1986, to Shari and Roger Gallup, died unexpectedly New Year’s Day at the age of 38.

Josh is the second son born to Roger and Shari. Surviving is his older brother Ray. Josh was blessed with two daughters, Liberty Mae and Kimber Leigh.

Josh was known as a warm, caring and generous man. He always had a smile and helping hand for anyone who needed it. He loved his metal music, Michigan football, and working with his girls on any activity they wanted to try. To say he was an avid Michigan fan is an understatement. He always ended a visit with the girls by saying, “ I love you, I miss you, and I can’t wait to see you.”

Along with his immediate family he is survived by grandmother Jeanette Fleck of Marysville Ohio; aunts Julie Kale, Linda (and Bob) Schwyn, both of Marysville; uncles Ramon (and Sheri) Gallup of Morenci, Mich., and Richard Gallup of Lyons, Ohio; and many cousins and friends.

Josh is preceded in death by his grandparents Mary Lou and Howard Gallup, and Bill Fleck.

There will be a memorial gathering from 3 to 5 p.m. Jan. 25 at the Morenci Eagles in Morenci. Please bring your favorite story about Josh to share with his girls.

Memorial contributions can be made to charity of your choosing.

We love you Josh, we miss you and we can’t wait to see you.

Charles “Charlie” Mika of Lyons, Ohio, died Dec. 30, 2024, at Flower Hospital in Sylvania, Ohio, after suffering brief complications from pneumonia, surrounded by family.

Charlie considered himself to be a lucky man who was blessed with a good life. He was born in Lyons to Czech immigrants Frank and Anna (Smistik) Mika. He was the youngest of nine children that included Joseph (and Janice), Mary (and Paul) Radcliffe, Frances (and Harold Schneider), Frank (and Marion), Martin (and Helen), Helen (and Jack) Springer, and Jerry (and Ginie), and a brother, John, who died at birth. Everyone worked on their farm, where Charlie developed a humble nature with a strong work ethic, family pride and a deep Catholic faith.

Following his graduation from Lyons High School in 1954, he attended college for one year at the University of Detroit before joining the U.S. Army in 1956. He was stationed in Germany at a post-Korean War Army Base. After returning to the U.S. in 1958, he worked for 44 years as an employee of S.E. Johnson Construction Company, where he started as a laborer and successfully progressed through company leadership positions including cement finisher, concrete foreman, and culminating as a job superintendent before retiring in 1999.

Charlie was an active member of the community throughout his life. He belonged to Holy Trinity Parish in Assumption, where he was involved in a variety of volunteer roles including the Parish Council, school board, and Little League coach. He was also a life member of St. Mary’s Catholic War Veteran’s Post #306 in Assumption. During his CWV tenure he served in numerous leadership roles including eight terms as Post Commander, and State of Ohio Director for more than 20 years. He chaired numerous CWV events including wild game dinners, annual post picnics, luaus, euchre nights, and holiday parties. He also arranged outdoor masses and corporate communions, and participated in numerous parades and military services for the community.

Charlie enjoyed his life in retirement, especially his trips to Florida each winter. He was a loyal Buckeyes fan, and was well-known for his famous BBQ chicken enjoyed by family and friends over the years. While Charlie’s physical presence will no longer be with us, his greatest legacy will be his love of family and his hope that family celebrations continue for the next generation.

Charlie is survived by his loving wife Ruth (Lumbrezer McGhee); daughters Carol (and Jim) Iott and their children Nate, Emily and Lauren, Cathleen Kauffman, and Christy LePitre and children Joseph and Isabelle; son Anthony; stepsons Scott (and Carol) Sanford and their children Julieanne and Jeffrey, Christopher (and Patti) Sanford and their children Jana, Danielle and Michael, Ken Sanford and his children Kenny, Kaden and Konner, Mike (and Mary) McGhee and their children Sam and Danielle; stepdaughters Mary (and Jack) Carson and their children Ashley, Brittany and Levi, Marsha (and Dave) Blevins and their son Cole, and Michele Parker and her children Kristin and Justin; 12 great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings; and his second wife, Dolores (Swartz Sanford).

Visitation is planned from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 6, at Weigel Funeral Home in Metamora and also from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Assumption, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Interment with military honors will follow at Lyons Cemetery.

Memorial donations are suggested to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Assumption or St. Mary’s CWV Post #306.

Michael Allen “Mike” Shaffer, 55, of Morenci, Mich., died Jan. 1, 2025, at Hospice of Northwest Ohio in Toledo, following a battle with lymphoma.

He was born Aug. 12, 1969, in Toledo, Ohio, the first-born child of Larry and Cindy (Bunde) Shaffer. 

A lifelong resident of Morenci, Mike was a 1988 graduate of Morenci Area High School and later obtained an associate’s degree in tool and die from Northwest State Community College in Archbold.

Mike married fellow Morenci alumni Kristy Kay Zuvers on Oct. 14, 1995, at Seneca Community Church. 

For the past 18 years, Mike was employed as a proud machinist for Rapid Machines in Pioneer, Ohio. He loved his job and possessed a strong work ethic, working up until the day of his last hospitalization. Never idle, Mike kept busy with various carpentry and woodworking projects and he was skilled with any labor done with his hands. An avid outdoorsman, he was a former member of the Morenci Sportsman’s Club. He loved hunting, shooting, fishing and golfing, and he also enjoyed smoking meat for his family, never afraid to try a new recipe. He and Kristy also enjoyed years of weekend camping at various campgrounds in the tri-state area. 

A devoted Christian, Mike worshipped as a member of Medina Federated Church. He is remembered for his servant heart, selflessly putting the welfare of others before the needs of his own. His humorous and witty personality exemplified his charm, and his extensive knowledge of trivia will always be fondly remembered.

Mike is survived by Kristy, his loving wife of nearly 30 years; children McKenna Shaffer (and Dylan Leathers) of Odessa, Texas, and Mason Shaffer of Morenci; his parents Larry and Cindy Shaffer of Morenci; his sister Stacy (and Scott) Yatzek of Adrian; mother-in-law Georgia Zuvers of Morenci; brother- and sister-in-law Scott (and Natalie) Zuvers of Morenci; and nieces and nephews Sidny and Sedric Yatzek, and Josie, Emily, Tessa and Noah Zuvers. 

Mike was preceded in death by his firstborn infant son Garrett Allen Shaffer; father-in-law Jack Zuvers; sister-in-law Kelly Zuvers; and his maternal and paternal grandparents.

Cremation will take place and visitation is planned from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 7, at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Morenci. A memorial service will begin at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8, at the funeral home, with Pastor Darren Lemmon officiating. Inurnment will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Fulton County Humane Society.

Sandra M. Porter, 90, of Adrian, Mich., died peacefully Dec. 20, 2024, at Hampton Manor in Adrian under the care of Hospice of Lenawee.

Born July 22, 1934, in New York, N.Y., she was the daughter of Earl and Pauline (Miller) Edwards. She married Leon “Bud” Smith on Sept. 9, 1950, in Adrian, and he preceded her in death Feb. 26, 1967. She later married Aden Walker Porter of Blissfield, Mich., on April 25, 1981, in Munson, Mich. He also preceded her in death March 19, 2016.

Sandra was a member of the Zion United Brethren Church, and was active in the Adrian Senior Center and the Red Hat Society.

She is survived by seven step-children, Aden Wayne (and Debbie) Porter, Barbara (and Gregg) Russell, Frank (and Maureen) Packard, John (and Sharann) Packard, Janine Packard, Kathleen Packard and Bruce (and Mary) Packard; numerous step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husbands, Sandy was preceded in death by three children, Thomas, Stanley and Denise Smith.

Graveside services were Dec. 27 at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.

Memorial donations are suggested to Lenawee Humane Society, Adrian Senior Center, or a charity of the donor’s choice. 

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

Dale Allen Schmidt, 65, of Waldron, Mich., died Dec. 20, 2024, at Toledo Hospital. 

He was born Oct. 31, 1959, in Kansas City, Kan., the son Ralph and Nancy Schmidt. On July 2, 1992, he married Amy Jo Brown and she survives.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by children Casey Schmidt, Jesselin (and Rob) Kroeger, Cody Schmidt and Brandon (and Maraia) Schmidt; several grandchildren; siblings Pam (and John) Kellogg, Dee Dee St. Amant, Teresa (and Ron) Eller, and Rick (and Cindy) Schmidt; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Schmidt, and nephew, Justin Schmidt.

Memorial services will be announced at a later date.

Purse Funeral Home of Adrian assisted the family with arrangements.

Theodore “Ted” Burk, 84, of Morenci,  Mich., died Dec. 22, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his family while in the compassionate care of Hospice of Lenawee.

He was born Sept. 25, 1940, in Piqua, Ohio, to Carl and Lena (Sutherland) Burk. Ted married Beverly J. Hughes on Oct. 7, 1961, in Morenci. Together they raised three children and cherished over 54 years of memories before her passing exactly nine years earlier, Dec. 22, 2015.

Ted worked several years at Parker Rust Proofing in Morenci, served a short time as a Lenawee County Sheriff Deputy, and drove truck for the majority of his career for various companies. Ted, Bev, and their family enjoyed their time Up North at their cabin on the Pine River. He took great pride and enjoyment in taking care of his properties. His greatest joy came from his family, and he was very proud of his grandchildren. Ted was especially grateful for his family’s care provided to him during his last few months of life.

Ted is survived by two sons, Kyle (and Sue) Burk of Morenci and Jon (and Sarah) Burk of Waldron; a daughter, Carla Burk (and Clint Heinen) of Adrian; six grandchildren, Riley (and Holly) Burk, Melissa Burk (and Tyler Schultz), Lena Burk, Madison Burk (and Hunter Fackler), Morgan Burk and Makenna Burk; and a great-grandson, Krue Tanier.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Dale Burk.

Visitation is planned from 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 27, until the funeral service at 12:30 p.m. at Eagle-Marry Funeral Home, Morenci. Rev. William VanValkenburg will officiate. Private interment will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci. 

Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee, who the family commends for the excellent care provided to Ted as well as for their support to the family.

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Memorial donations are suggested to the American Cancer Society. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

She was preceded in death by her father Merrill Hallett.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cremation has taken place and there will be no services.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Memorial contributions are suggested to the donor’s choice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Memorial donations are suggested to Gideons International.

Eagle-Marry Funeral Home in Fayette  assisted with arrangements.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Memorial donations are suggested to Gideons International.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family for future designation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Memorial contributions are suggested to Hospice of Lenawee.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The family requests memorial donations to Lyons Christian Church.

Arrangements were made with Habegger Funeral Services.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Memorial donations are suggested to Fayette Church of the Nazarene.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family to defray expenses.  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Memorial contributions are suggested to Fayette Volunteer Fire Association.

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

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

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

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

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

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

She was preceded in death by her father in 2000

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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