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Funeral Services:

Judy Kay Gardner, a woman who loved in such a big way that bellies were never empty, and hearts were always full, passed away March 21, 2025. Judy, 79, of Vermontville was born October 22, 1945 on the K-Bar Ranch in Hominy, OK to Thomas Ernest Marcum and Agatha Marie (Upton) Marcum. A cherished member of the First Congregational Church of Vermontville and the Eastern Star, Judy dedicated her life to bringing people together, ensuring everyone felt welcome and loved. 

A loyal school bus driver for the Maple Valley School District, Judy was more than just a chauffeur to the children; she was a friendly face and a comforting supportive figure. Her compassionate and responsible nature made a lasting impact on students and parents alike. Following her retirement in 2000, Judy recognized the profound importance of helping those in need and devoted her time to making sure no one went hungry as a volunteer at the Vermontville Food Bank. Additionally, Judy was an honorary member of the Maple Valley FFA and volunteered her time as an FFA Chaperone at State Conventions. Her efforts embodied the true spirit of generosity and community support. 

A woman of many talents, Judy was known for her love of sewing quilts and costumes, crocheting personalized gifts for family—especially for newborns—and created the beloved home, “A Hallmark House,” a gathering place where family came together during the holidays. In 1992, Judy conceptualized and sewed an entire ensemble for Christine’s Miss Rodeo America pageant. Judy’s creativity extended to community events as well. She designed costumes and parade floats for her grandkids at the Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival, showcasing her artistic flair and bringing joy to those who attended. In her spare time, Judy enjoyed bowling and fishing with friends and embarking on road trips to rodeos. Judy was an avid gardener who grew vegetables and zinnias in the garden on her beloved farm. She enjoyed the birds, especially the finches and mourning doves she attracted. Judy embraced all of life’s adventures with enthusiasm. 

Family was the heart of everything Judy did. She diligently raised her children to be good community members and instilled the same values in her grandchildren. She organized gatherings with an overabundance of food—18 courses worth—and lovingly baked birthday cakes and holiday cinnamon rolls for her children and grandchildren. Watching volleyball and football games with her grandkids were among her cherished moments, further highlighting her supportive spirit.

Judy is survived by her loving husband, Douglas Gardner; her children, Christine (Eric) Terpening, Gordie Gardner, and Dennis (Kathy) Gardner; her grandchildren, Josey (Bernie) Smith, Marcum (Avianna Jackson) Terpening, Chelsey (Dane) Saylor, Chase Gardner, Dillon Terpening, and Jessie Gardner; and her great-grandchildren, Gage Saylor, Raelyn Saylor, and Bernie Smith. She is also remembered by her sister, Anna Lou Hansbarger. Judy was preceded in death by her brothers Joseph Marcum and Jim Marcum, and her sister Laquita Valdick.

Judy’s legacy of kindness, bravery, and compassion will continue to inspire all who knew her. As we remember her life, let us honor her memory by embracing one another with the same warmth and generosity she shared with the world. 

Friends are encouraged to support Judy’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Thursday, March 27, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services were Thursday, March 27 at 1:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. A procession to Woodlawn Cemetery will follow funeral services. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Judy’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Maple Valley FFA. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Ronald Richard Perkins was a huge sports enthusiast and celebrated his final homerun as he crossed over into Heaven on March 20, 2025. Born in Battle Creek, MI on July 11, 1943 to Jack and Wilma (Nelson) Perkins, Ronald graduated from high school and went to work soon after at General Motors and remained there for 30 years until his retirement in 2000. In April of 1967 Ron married Audrey Langs and the two became inseparable, enjoying many years of special times riding motorcycles to almost every state in the continental US including Alaska, and trips through Canada. They enjoyed raising their Shetland Sheepdogs, wintering in Florida, and time spent with friends and family. He was a member of Chapter R Goldwings, and Mid-Michigan Riders FMCA Knights of the Highway.

Quiet and introverted, yet very strong-willed, Ron enjoyed a good laugh. Sports could always be found on the TV in their home, whether it was Detroit Lions, Red Wings, Tigers, Pistons, or MSU Spartans. Ron was a hard worker, not only on the job, but with his other activities as well. A talented woodworker, he made furniture, jewelry boxes, and all the cabinetry in their kitchen. Also, he loved to golf and take photographs.

A dog-lover, Ron and his wife raised Shelties and volunteered with Pet Therapy at Sparrow Hospital, enjoying when his dog Buddy could help children smile. The one special night for relaxation with the family was always Sunday enjoying a huge bowl of popcorn and Schwann’s ice cream.

Ron is survived by his wife of 58 years, Audrey; children, Kathy Davis and Tim (Jo-Anne) Perkins; grandchildren, Heather (Chit) Win and Lee Derrick; great-grandchildren, Norah Win, Miriam Win, and another baby on the way; and sister, Gail (Bill) Spooner. In his immediate family he was predeceased by his mother and father; and his sisters, Nancy VanNocker and Diane Metzmaker.

Friends are encouraged to support Ron’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Wednesday, March 26, 12:30-2:00 p.m. with Funeral Services at 2:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Immediately following the service, interment will take place at Needmore Cemetery. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Sharon Marie Smith, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2025, at Sensations Memory Care in Charlotte. She was born on February 25, 1944, in Pickford, Michigan. An accomplished individual, she graduated Salutatorian from Pickford High School, setting a standard of excellence that she maintained throughout her life.

Together with her husband, Thomas Smith Sr., Sharon co-owned and operated Smith’s Body Shop in Olivet, where her dedication to her work was apparent to all who crossed her path.

Sharon was also an avid outdoorswoman, with passions that included hunting, cutting wood, gardening, and nurturing her flowers. She found joy in feeding the birds and cherished the time spent outdoors. Her greatest delight came from being with her family, and she made countless memories alongside them, which they will forever treasure.

Sharon is survived by her son, Thomas and Diane (Palmer) Smith Jr. of Gaylord, Michigan; her daughter, Kari and Billy Moss Jr. of Olivet, Michigan; her grandchildren, Jennifer (John) Stevens, Christopher (Jamie) Brundage, Leighanna (Kayle) Harrington, and Kaleb Smith; her great-grandchildren, Sophia Harrington, Emma Harrington, Samantha Harrington, Carmen Harrington, Cooper Brundage, Truen Brundage, and Ezra Stevens.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lester and Matilda Huyck, her husband, Thomas Smith Sr., and her sister, Gwendolyn Huyck.

The family would like to thank the staff at Sensations Memory Care in Charlotte and Hospice of Lansing for the loving care they provided Sharon.

A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. A private burial will take place at Oaklawn Chapel Gardens Cemetery in Sault Saint Marie, Michigan. 

Those desiring may make contributions in Sharon’s memory to Hospice of Lansing, 3411 Stoneleigh Drive, Lansing, MI 48910 or Sensations Memory Care, 511 E. Shepherd St., Charlotte, MI 48813.

To view Sharon’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com

The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.

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Funeral Services:

Steven “Steve” Jay Frayre who spent a lifetime photographing races, crossed the finish line into Heaven on March 26, 2025. Born in Lansing, MI on August 21, 1964 to Roger and Marilyn (Dargitz) Frayre, Steve grew up loving racing and started taking pictures at sprint car races when he was only 19 years old. With a real talent for capturing the perfect race moments, Steve had several shots that were used as covers for national magazines.  

Steve met his wife in their high school psychology class, and they were married at the age of 20. A kind, loving family man and devoted Christian, he was always trying to make others feel better, especially with a good joke. Always in search of fun adventures, he enjoyed playing guitar (and collecting them), golfing, waterskiing, and time spent at their family cottage in Barryton. He worked in the restaurant business, with his last job as a manager at Olive Garden until he suffered a stroke and could not work any longer.

Steve is survived by his wife of 40 years, Laura; children, Cheryl (Rory) McCaslin-Frayre and Victoria Frayre; granddaughters, Layla, Bailey, and Anna; mother, Marilyn Frayre; siblings, Danny (Linda) Frayre and Liz Frayre; cousin, Bart (Harunna) Faulkner; and nephews, Ashly (Kammy) Frayre, and their children, Carson and Brody; and Matthew Frayre and his children, Camden, Preston, and Jameson.  He was predeceased by his father, Roger Frayre; and aunts, Darlene and Diane.

Friends are encouraged to support Steve’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Saturday, March 29, 1-2:00 p.m. with Funeral Services at 2:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor James Haldane officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Eaton Rapids Church of the Nazarene. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Bruce Keith Stimer, 73, of Eaton Rapids, MI, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. He was born on January 26, 1952, in Lansing, MI, to Keith and Lucille (Westrick) Stimer. Bruce grew up in Eaton Rapids, graduating with the Class of 1970, before continuing his education at Michigan State University.

Throughout his career, Bruce worked in various management roles, including as the Meijer Manager of Soft Goods in Lansing, Michigan, a manager for Meijer in Ohio, and a manager for Penske Truck Rental in Cincinnati. He later served as a service representative for a Jaguar dealership in Sarasota, FL. After retiring, he returned to Eaton Rapids to help care for his mother.

Bruce was a skilled handyman with a passion for working on cars. He loved traveling with his late wife, June, and enjoyed playing golf in his younger years. He also had a fondness for visiting casinos.

He was preceded in death by his wife, June Stimer, and his father, Keith Stimer. He is survived by his mother, Lucy Stimer; brother, Gary (Yvonne) Stimer; nieces, Rachel Dore and Briar Corson; as well as five grandnieces, four great-grandnieces, and several cousins and friends.

Per his wishes, no services will be held. Bruce will be laid to rest at Rosehill Cemetery in Eaton Rapids, beside his beloved wife, June.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Funeral Services:

Gary Phillip Wireman, age 68, of Olivet, MI passed away peacefully, at home, surrounded by his family on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. He was born on May 29, 1956 in Marshall, MI, the son of Homer and Barbara (Cousino) Wireman. On December 10, 1974 he married the love of his life, Kathi (Lambka) Wireman, and they enjoyed 50 years of marriage together. A one-of-a-kind husband, father, and papa to his grandkids, Gary enjoyed time spent with his family, farming, and riding his four-wheeler and side-by-side in the Upper Peninsula in Michigan and in West Virginia. After 30 years of employment at General Motors, he retired in 2006. Gary enjoyed auctions, rustic camping with his camping crew, and spending time outdoors. 

Gary is survived by his wife Kathi; children, Mandi Slone, Kelly Wireman, and Hayli Warner; grandchildren; Conner and Andrew Slone, Kylie, Wyatt and Gracelynn Taylor and Levi, Elijah and Leah Warner; siblings, Bob Wireman, Cris (Larry) Rizzuto, Albert (Cathy) Wireman, Rick (Michelle) Wireman, Pam (Mark ) Wells, John (Lisa) Wireman, Jim (Kathy) Wireman, and Mike Wireman; sisters-in-law, Ann Wireman and Vicki Wireman; and special buddy, Charlie. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Homer and Barbara Wireman; his son, Andy; brothers, Don and Tim Wireman.

The family received friends on Tuesday, March 18 for a time of visitation from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, MI. Service followed visitation at 2:00 p.m. Following the visitation a luncheon will be held at Clarence-Duck Lake Township Hall. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to Ambrose Lake State Forest Campground https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/0lTORw?vid=1i9yuh (Specify Rifle River, Trail Maintenance in memory of Gary Wireman) or there will be envelopes available at the funeral home for cash or check donations. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Connie Jo Franklin, a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2025, at the age of 82. Known for her warm hugs, caring heart, and unwavering honesty, Connie lived a life full of love, laughter, and cherished memories. Born on January 12, 1943, to Fred and Leota (Spaulding) Goff, Connie grew up in Dimondale, Michigan, where she graduated from Dimondale High School in 1961. She raised two children, Melony and Michael.  She reconnected with the love of her life, Jerry Franklin and he was her third husband.

Connie took pride in her work as a laboratory attendant for the State of Michigan until her well-earned retirement. She had a gift for keeping a tidy home, embracing what she fondly called “organized chaos.” Never one to leave things unsaid, Connie had a straightforward and loving nature, always sharing exactly what was on her mind.

Among her greatest joys in life was traveling with Jerry in their RV, with Gulf Shores, Alabama, being one of their favorite destinations. Closer to home, she delighted in riding her bicycle around Dimondale and later exploring the scenic trails of Houghton Lake, where they spent their golden years. But her absolute favorite place to be was on their pontoon boat, floating peacefully on Houghton Lake, soaking in the beauty of nature.

In her later years, Connie found deep fulfillment in helping raise her grandchildren, treasuring every moment spent with them. Fiercely independent, she devised clever ways to navigate life’s challenges, including her beloved system of post-it notes that helped her stay organized and self-sufficient.

Connie is survived by her daughter, Melony Ryan-Fronckel; her son, Michael (Melody) Sich; and her beloved grandchildren, Roxanna and Ryan Fronckel. She is also survived by her brother, Frederick (Sue) Goff. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry, in 2021; as well as her parents, Fred and Leota.

Connie’s warmth, wisdom, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of kindness, strength, and straight-talking honesty will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

A celebration of Connie’s life will be held this summer, where family and friends will gather to share memories and honor the incredible woman she was. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you take a moment to hug a loved one in Connie’s memory, because if there was one thing she believed in, it was the power of a good hug.  The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home. 

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Funeral Services:

Bonnie Lou Maker, 87, of Nashville, MI, peacefully passed away on March 10, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was eagerly anticipating being reunited with loved ones who had gone before her. She was born on January 19, 1938, in Hastings, MI, to Manley and Eleanor (Chaffee) Sherman. She shared a special connection with her sister, Arloa, as they were born exactly seven years apart, to the day. 

A proud 1956 graduate of W.K. Kellogg High School, Bonnie married her high school sweetheart, Bill Maker, on September 22, 1957. Together, they built a loving home and raised their children, Billy Ray and Becky, in Nashville. Bonnie and Bill shared a passion for racing micro midgets, which sparked their lifelong love for classic cars and cruising.

Bonnie was a devoted homemaker who not only cared for her own children but also opened her heart to others. In 1975, she began a fulfilling 25-year career as the librarian at Fuller St. Elementary, where she was a beloved colleague. Outside of work, Bonnie had many interests, including bowling, playing cards, and being an avid reader. Above all, she treasured relationships, evident by planning annual high school reunions, enjoying lunch dates with friends, and spending cherished time with her family, including her 11 great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

Bonnie is survived by her daughter, Becky (Bill) Wilson, and family: Kelly (Matt) Dunham, parents of Allyson, Waylon, Nora, and Wilson; Max (Lisa) Wilson, parents of Avery and Addy; and Katelyn (Dale) Laverty, parents of Maxton, Mayleigh, and Mason. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Bernice, and family: Ben (Melissa) Maker, parents of Hartley and Maddie. Bonnie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill; son, Billy Ray; her parents, sister, and nephews. 

A memorial service and celebration of Bonnie’s life was held on Thursday, March 20, 2025.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Daniels Funeral Home – Nashville. For further information please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralcome.net.

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Funeral Services:

With heavy hearts, we announce Clarence “Melvin” Reed passed away on March 10, 2025 after a short illness and went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, and was loved by all who knew him. 

He was born the son of Glen and Helen (Miller) Reed on March 24, 1928. He was a happy-go-lucky soul, loved being around people, watching cowboy movies and eating chocolate of any kind. His smile would light up the room and he had a good sense of humor, which carried him through his good, long life. 

He had many talents, held several positions and completed many goals in his lifetime. He retired from A.E. Hoover Universal in Charlotte, MI after 21 years. He was also especially proud of a sawmill that he built and operated. Melvin loved the simple life and lived his best life on the farm. 

He married Theressa Reed in 1963 and they made a life together on the farm raising a bunch of kids, crops, and livestock. He had three children with his first wife and adopted five children after he married Theressa. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Theressa Reed, and his children, Glen (and Carole) Holevinski, Thomas Holevinski, Cathlene (and Rick) Vega Sr., Dwayne (and Laura) Reed, James (and Tracy) Reed, Brian (and Michelle) Reed and Lee (and Kay) Reed. He also has many grandchildren and great grandchildren, a sister-in-law, nieces and nephews. 

Preceding in death were his parents Glen and Helen Reed, his infant son Bobbie Reed, his uncle Clifford Reed, his granddaughter Samantha Reed and his daughter-in-law Candace Holevinski. 

Funeral arrangements have been made at Kempf’s of Bellevue Celebration Center, 205 N. Elizabeth St., Bellevue, MI. Visitation was scheduled for Sunday, March 16, 2025 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Funeral services were Monday, March 17, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. and officiated by Pastor John Colegrove. A Luncheon is planned to follow the service.

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Funeral Services:

Robert “Bob” Justin Wood, a great storyteller and very talented man, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 16, 2025. Bob, 92, of Charlotte was born on July 16, 1932 in Battle Creek, Michigan, the son of Thomas and Agnes Fern (Arnold) Wood. Bob married Karen Sederlund on July 16, 1966.

Bob grew up quickly; having lost his father when he was 12-years-old he quit school soon afterwards and was granted a hardship driver’s license at age 13. He worked three different jobs to help support his mother and younger siblings; he instilled this same work ethic and sense of responsibility in his children. Feeling that education is important he later finished his education and eventually worked for the State of Michigan as a surface water quality investigator, where he retired from the DNR in 1994.

Never a dull moment with Bob, his interests and hobbies were many, including antique tractor and car restoration, antique clock restoration, fishing, hunting, gardening, nurturing fruit trees, riding motorcycles and snowmobiles. He passed down the enjoyment of many of his favorite pastimes to his children.

Bob and Karen owned a cabin within the Chippewa River Vista, where they could often be found over holidays and weekends enjoying and hosting family and friends. Bob loved all things nature and out-of-doors related.  

Bob never slowed down after retirement, he loved to be busy and had an excellent work ethic. His religion was very important to him, he was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Charlotte where he enjoyed serving on numerous committee positions and special projects.  He was also a lifelong member of the Kalamo Masonic Temple, a 3rd Degree Mason.

Antique tractor and car restoration was a passion, including the restoration of his 1941 Farmall BN, purchased in 1950 at the age of eighteen. He was a member of the Central Michigan Two-Cylinder Club. Bob and Karen enjoyed numerous trips in the MGB convertible that he diligently restored. Eventually, Bob and Karen started spending winters in Florida, making Englewood their home away from home where they quickly made new friends and became regular members of the Englewood Church of the Nazarene.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Karen; children, Mike Wood, Sherry Wood Copenhaver, Dana Wood, Terry Wood, and Jon (Kim) Wood; grandchildren, Troy (Tonya) Pitcher, Shawn (Mike) Miller, Kristine Latchaw, Mark (Laura) Wood, Ashton (Chelsey) Wood, Brennon Wood (engaged to Paige Bird), Alexus (Joe) Wood-Anzaldua, Brooke Wood (engaged to Nick Burzycki), Jordan Wood, and Katelyn Wood; 21  great-grandchildren; nine great-great-grandchildren; sister, Lorna (Wood) Crawford; and a number of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a daughter, JulieAnna Wood; son, Matthew Wood; grandsons, Randy Pitcher and Skylar Wood; siblings, Dennis Wood, Larry Wood, Pauline (Wood) Webster, Sam Wood, and Thomas Wood Jr.

Friends are encouraged to support Bob’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Wednesday, March 19, 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services were Thursday, March 20, 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Pete Kroll officiating. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Bob’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to First Baptist Church Jamaican Mission Trips. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.