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Bernard Williams

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Bernard “Bernie” Williams, a kind and loving father, grandfather and brother, died July 22, 2021. Bernie, 90, lifelong resident of Charlotte, was born September 2, 1930 in Charlotte to Harry and Queen (Moore) Williams. He was a soft-spoken man, kind-hearted and put his focus on others rather than himself. A family man, he treasured the time spent with his wife and children and was there when needed. He had a passion for flying, and was a flight instructor, and a founding member of the Eaton Flying Service. Bernie owned and operated Garfield Tavern with his wife Elsie for 9 years. Later he retired from General Motors as Plant Security. He enjoyed game time with his family and friends and living his best life each and every day. Bernie was able to use his handyman skills to help anyone in need. His love for travel led to many fond memories created of the camping trips up north and out west. If asked, Bernie would say he was most proud of his family.
Bernie is survived by his daughters, Terry Wellman, Jo (Mike) Davis; son, Mark (Denise) Williams; grandchildren, Jarrod Schultz, Tony (Rachel) Schultz, Jeff (Lindsey) Davis, Kyle Williams, Kevin (Kelsey) Williams, Lauren Davis; seven great-grandchildren; siblings, Margaret Harmon, John (Betty) Williams, and Larry Williams. He was predeceased by his wife, Elsie; son, Ronald; and his grandson, Matthew.
Visitation will be held Monday, July 26, from 6-8:00 p.m. and Tuesday, July 27, 10-11:00 a.m. A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, July 27, 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home with Dan Sowles officiating. Friends are encouraged to support Bernie’s family by attending, or sharing memories on his tribute page at www.prayfuneral.com. The Williams family would like to thank his second family at Hope Landing for the exceptional care he received while there. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Hope Landing. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Lillian E. Morrison

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Lillian Ellen Morrison, a longtime employee at Walmart in the jewelry department, died July 19, 2021. Lillian, 90, of Charlotte, was born June 20, 1931 in Aurelius Township, Ingham County Mich. to William and Eliza (Disbrow) Herrick. Lillian was a very loving and caring person who would give you the shirt off her back to help others. One of her most favorite things was taking her grandchildren on several camping trips. Lillian loved to go fishing with her husband, so much so that they did it on their wedding day! She was an avid Detroit Tigers fan and enjoyed knitting afghans for her grandchildren. Lillian was employed by G.C. Murphy’s as a stock person, managed Colonial Village apartments in Olivet for 15 years and was most recently employed by Walmart where she received an award for many years of service in the jewelry department. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
Lillian is survived by her daughters, Marilyn Baker and Foy Hackler; sister, Sharon Garcia; nine grandchildren, many great- and great-great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Bob Morrison; sons, Gary Morrison and Robert Morrison; parents, William and Eliza (Disbrow) Herrick; brother, William Herrick; sisters, Birtice Lundy, Roberta Quinn, Dorothy Star, Marie Opdike, Maxine Herrick, Vera LaMathe and Pauline Batora.
Graveside services were held Friday, July 23, 2021 at 11 a.m. at Deepdale Memorial Gardens in Lansing, Mich. with Pastor Darwin Kuhl and Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. Visitation was from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, Mich. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to West Carmel Congregational Church.
Family and friends are encouraged to share remembrances and condolences online at Lillian’s tribute page at prayfuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Richard “Dick” Rulison

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Richard “Dick” Rulison, 66, passed away of a heart attack on Sunday, July 11, 2021, at his home on Cabbage Road in Tapiola, Mich. He was born in Charlotte, Mich. and was the son of Katherine and Robert Rulison. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Daniel, who was killed in Vietnam. He is survived by his brother, David; sister-in-law, Linda; and his nephews, Jesse and Adam (wife Rachel), whom he loved very much.
Dick started working with horses in his early teens and apprenticed with a local farrier after graduation from Charlotte High School in 1973. In the early 1980’s he moved to Tapiola where he continued shoeing horses locally and working at the Pelkie Co-op. In 1983 he took a job with Carriage Tours on Mackinac Island. Until his recent retirement, he worked and lived on the island during the summer seasons and spent the winters in Tapiola. He loved his U.P. Tapiola life, and for over 30 years he donated his “off-season time” as a volunteer for Little Brothers-Friends of the Elderly and was a fireman for the Otter Lake Volunteer Fire Department.
Dick had a great sense of humor and never ran out of stories to tell, and embellish, in his own special way. He will be missed deeply by his family and many friends.
A celebration of Dick’s life will be offered on Saturday, July 24, 2021 at 12 noon at the Tapiola Pavilion. Food and refreshments will be provided.
The interment of his ashes will be held at a later date this fall at the Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte, Mich., followed by a celebration of his life.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Little Brothers-Friends of the Elderly or the Otter Lake Fire Department.
The O’Neill-Dennis Funeral Home of Hancock is in charge of the arrangements. To leave online condolences, please go to oneilldennisfh.com.

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Robert C. Sherman

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Robert Charles Sherman (AKA New Poppa) went to be with our Lord and Savior on April 23, 2021. Rob was 53 years old and was the kind of man who placed his family first and would never say no to anyone who needed help; especially his four grandchildren, Kimberly Duncan (10), Peyton Duncan (6), Joseph Duncan (4), and Jaxin Sherman (1.5), with another little Sherman on the way.
Rob was born in Ionia on June 9, 1967, to Ronald and Evelyn (Fritts) Sherman. Rob lived in Phoenix for the last seven years, working the last two years with DLR designing audio and video rooms for businesses and schools, which was a passion that he loved.
Rob is survived by his wife, Shawn; children, Kirstine Duncan and Brandon (Aaron) Sherman; parents, Ronald and Evelyn Sherman; brothers, Brian (Laurie) and Brett (Kim) Sherman; nieces, Kelly Huynh and Macy Sherman; and nephews, Chris, Duncan and Will Sherman. Robert is also survived by his father-in-law, Robert Granger; sisters-in-law, Shannon Schumacher (Colton) and Brandi Granger; brother-in-law, Bryan (Bonnie) Granger; and nephews, Mark (Kailynn) Granger, Anthony and Ethan Granger and Gavin Bonney.
He was predeceased by grandparents, Ervin and Dorothy Fritts, and Charles and Katherine Gorsuch; as well as his mother-in-law, Penny Granger.
A Celebration of Life will be celebrated on August 14, 2021 at 1 p.m. at the Charlotte VFW for all friends and family.

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Harriet E. Ashbay

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Harriet Elizabeth Ashbay, of Manton, Mich., passed away, July 6, 2021 at Pleasant Lake Lodge in Cadillac. She was 92.
Harriet was born February 18, 1929 in Ann Arbor, Mich. to Charles Edward and Esther Alyce (Aseltine) Bowling and they preceded her in death. On March 4, 1950 in Ann Arbor, Mich. she married Lewis Junior Ashbay and he preceded her in death on July 26, 2018.
Harriet graduated from the University of Michigan High School and later worked at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Lansing. Harriet later retired from Michigan State University’s Geography Department. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Manton for many years.
She was an amazing woman, wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Harriet had a gift that engaged others. She was a fantastic conversationalist and genuinely was interested in others. Children were drawn to her; neighborhood children were always around, and she helped shape and guide them in a fun way. Harriet loved her perfect grandchildren and loved to play games with a competitive spirit and Harriet’s rules.
She is survived by her children, Gordon (Valli) Ashbay of Grand Ledge, Gary (Ellen) Ashbay of Battle Creek and Lucinda (Michael) Rathbun of Cadillac; eight grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents and husband she was preceded in death by a son, Warren E. Ashbay; and siblings, William, Edith, Babe, Catherine, Chester, and Charles.
Graveside services will be held 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 24, 2021, at Fairview Cemetery in Manton. A luncheon will follow at her home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church or to Hospice of Michigan Cadillac Chapter. An online guestbook is available at petersonfh.com.

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Carl W. Davis

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Carl Wilbert Davis, age 88, passed away Saturday, July 17, 2021, in Okemos. Carl was born to Robert E. and M. Dorena Davis on February 4, 1933, in Webster, Oh. He grew up in Huron County, Mich. until 1965, when he moved his family to Williamston, Mich. Carl later moved to Charlotte, Mich. where he resided for over 45 years.
Carl worked as an oiler at General Motors for 30 years. He enjoyed going all over Michigan to different restaurants. Some of his favorite foods were fried bologna sandwiches and chicken gizzards. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family at any kind of event. As long as he was with the kids and grandkids, he was happy. Carl was quite the jokester and prankster.
Carl was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Alma King, Dolly Graham, Frances Rose, Shelby Vugrin, Marie Radabaugh, Doris Bays; brothers, Robert Davis, Charles, Daniel, and William Benda; son-in-law, Gene Cebula; and his first-born son, Glenn P. Davis whom he missed dearly.
He is survived by his sister, Peg Henke of DeWitt; children, Beth Davis of Dansville, April Cebula of Dansville, Diane (Kevin) Webster of Williamston, Bob (the late Carolyn Grabarczyk) Davis of Williamston, Tom Davis of Williamston, Tracy (Dennis) Putman of Charlotte, Barry (Jennifer) Davis of Webberville, Skip (Jamie) Clark of Lansing, Randy (Lisa) Clark of Springport, Dan (Kathy) Clark of Potterville; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, all whom will miss him very much.
Funeral services were held on Wednesday, July 21, 2021, at the Webberville United Methodist Church, 4215 Holt Road, Webberville, MI 48892, with Pastor Marty Johnston officiating. Burial took place at Alchin Farm Cemetery.
To view Carl’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit burkhead-green-kilgo.com.

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Francis Calnan

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Francis “Wayne” Calnan of Charlotte, a wonderful father, husband and friend, passed away on April 24, 2021, surrounded by his family. Wayne, who was 77, was born on January 30, 1944, in Lowell, Mass. He graduated from Sexton High School in Lansing, Mich., and was a member of the wrestling team. Wayne lived most of his life in Charlotte, Mich., was active in his church and worked for General Motors for 34 years. He enjoyed his retirement, camping trips and poodles, and was very proud of his grandchildren. Wayne was a great cook and enjoyed making homemade soup and spaghetti sauce every time they visited. He was well known for all his stories and could talk to anyone.
Wayne is survived by his wife, Judy; daughters, Shelene (Dave) Hahn, Marcy (Matt) Billings, Lisa (Steve) Creller, and son, Timothy Calnan; and many grandchildren. At Wayne’s request, there will be no service or visitation. Cremation has taken place.  If desired, the family suggests a memorial contribution to the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews at ifcj.org.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. Please visit millsfuneral.com to place online condolences.

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Paul C. Blatt

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Paul Collins Blatt passed away in Tampa, Fla. on Wednesday, January 6, 2021, at the age of 82. He was born January 25, 1938, in Eaton Rapids, Mich., the son of Francis and Helen (Collins) Blatt. He graduated from high school in Eaton Rapids in 1956 prior to graduating from Lansing Business University. Paul married Bonnie Lee Harshey on December 16, 1961, and together they raised their three children in Lansing and Eaton Rapids. Paul and Bonnie permanently moved to Fla. in 2000. He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Virginia, Clara, and his twin, Robert; and by his wife, Bonnie in 2016. He is survived by his sons, Jeffrey (Linda) Blatt, and Douglas (Tricia) Blatt; his daughter Rebecca (John) Galaudet; and his brother John (Carolyn) Blatt. He also leaves four grandchildren, Alexander Blatt, Anthony (Mina) Blatt, Allison Galaudet, and Matthew Galaudet.
Paul retired from the State of Michigan after 31 years of service. He often spoke fondly of his career as a state employee. After retirement, he and Bonnie traveled extensively throughout the United States and took multiple trips to the United Kingdom and Europe. One of their most recent trips was a cruise through the Panama Canal. When their children were younger, they enjoyed camping throughout the U.S, and as empty nesters, they volunteered in multiple National and State parks. They finally settled in Dunedin, Fla. (the Tampa area). His children found that they were much busier in retirement than when he was working.
Paul was known for watching the news and discussing it with anyone who would listen. He quite often would call his children to discuss the news and politics.
Paul will be laid to rest in Eaton Rapids, Mich. with a memorial service at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 31, 2021, at the First United Methodist Church in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Moffitt Cancer Center (moffitt.org/give) or PBS Station WEDU (wedu.org). To share memories or leave condolences please visit SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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James and Rose Marie Lynch

YEARS OF MARRIAGE: 65
ANNIVERSARY DATE: July 7, 1956

Congratulations Mom and Dad on 65 years of Marriage!  James and Rose Marie Lynch were married July 7, 1956 in Suitland, Maryland.  James was a Master Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force and Rose Marie Lynch managed the homestead and fielded calls and scheduled appointments for  “General Home Company” — the successful business her husband owned and operated for 42 years.  James and Rose Marie have four children, James Lynch Jr. (Vicki) and Regina Lynch (Mark) Wickard, Kevin Lynch (Johanna) and Jennifer (Chad) Camplese.  They have 14 grandchildren and enjoy having everyone over to their home on the water in Charlotte to swim, play games, cook out and just have fun!  James continues to serve his country by serving in the National Honor Guard for the last seven years, by providing the burial services for the men and women who served our country and have now passed on. James performs this service not only in Michigan, with the VFW Post #2406, but also in Florida, where he is also a member of the Honor Guard.  Rose Marie enjoys line dancing and teaching dance classes and performs throughout the county for local fairs, nursing homes and for veterans.   Rose Marie dances in both Charlotte, and in Florida, where they both like to spend a few months in the sunshine, while Michigan is experiencing its cold winters. James and Rose Marie love life, enjoy traveling and seeing the country in their motorhome and stay very active. Every year they hold one of the best garage sales in Charlotte. They are hard to keep-up with!!  We love you Mom and Dad!!

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Karen A. Croyle

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Karen Ann Croyle, 70, of Charlotte, died unexpectedly on Sunday, July 11, 2021 at her home. Karen was born January 13, 1951, the daughter of Roy and Eris Croyle. Karen graduated from Charlotte High School in 1969 and later earned her Associates Degree. She worked 20 years at the State of Michigan Department of Treasury, retiring in 1993. In retirement, she worked in social services, and four years housecleaning. Throughout her life, Karen enjoyed painting, reading, and Southern Gospel music strummed on banjo. She enjoyed time outdoors in her gardens, tending her flowers and vegetables. Many will remember Karen’s giving spirit, both as a volunteer at Hayes Green Beach Hospital, and in her daily service to others.
Karen is survived by her son, Kevin Borgman; grandchildren, Ashley Halliwill, Derek Halliwill, Lexie Jackson, and Tyler Borgman; great-granddaughter, Nevada Halliwill; and her beloved dogs, Hazel, Harlee, and Joey. She was predeceased by her daughter, Angela Halliwill; sister, Cheryl Croyle; infant brother, Kevin Croyle; and her parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Karen’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her tribute page at prayfuneral.com. Memorial services will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, July 19, 2021 at Pray Funeral Home with Pastor Steve Byrens officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Eaton County Humane Society. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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