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Funeral Services:

Cheryl Ann Wahlquist of Eaton Rapids, a cherished educator, devoted family matriarch, and spirited soul, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2024, at the age of 79. Sherie was born on December 6, 1944, in Chicago, IL, the daughter of the late Edward and Violet (Christensen) Hughes.

Sherie’s bright spirit and generous nature touched the lives of all who knew her. A proud lifelong educator, Sherie dedicated 38 years to the Eaton Rapids Public Schools, where her commitment to her students was recognized with a letter of special tribute in teaching from State Representative Angela Witwer. She started as an Ed Tech and eventually landed her dream position as the Librarian.

Beyond her professional contributions, Sherie nurtured a deep connection to the great outdoors. Her youthful aspiration to become a park ranger led her to a transformative experience working on a Colorado dude ranch. Her love for animals shone through her 50 years of raising horses and sheep in addition to countless chickens, dogs and cats.

Sherie’s zest for life was evident in her many hobbies. She enjoyed singing, playing volleyball, was a skilled gardener, a fan of Star Wars, and she also expressed her playful spirit through her favorite song, “The Macarena”. Sherie of course loved books and reading. One of her favorite genres was adult literature.

Sherie was a member of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Lansing since 1971 and was a lay reader, chalice bearer, vestry member, and choir member during her time there. The church was a huge part of her life, and she considered most members to be part of her family.

As a spiritual director for two decades, Sherie offered guidance without expecting anything in return, a testament to her generosity and desire to uplift those around her. Her legacy of kindness lives on through her beloved daughter, Jennifer Wahlquist Coolidge, and grandchildren, Matthew, Thomas, Jonathan, and Sean Coolidge, who will continue to honor her memory by embodying her kind and generous spirit. Sherie was preceded in death by her husband, Robert “Bob” Wahlquist; parents, Edward and Violet Hughes; sister, Susan Hughes.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to one of the follow charities in loving memory of Cheryl Ann Wahlquist, Natural Resources Defense Council, Saint Michael’s Episcopal Church Lansing Outreach Fund, Episcopal Relief & Development, Capital Area Humane Society and/or Elara Caring Hospice Care. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

Penny Marie Crim of Bellevue, passed away on October 5, 2024, at the age of 59. Penny was born in Battle Creek, Michigan on December 1, 1964, the daughter of Rex and Ivas (Manning) Endsley. Penny was a graduate of Tahquamenon Area Schools with the class of 1984. On December 13, 1986, she married the love of her life, Paul Edward Crim at the Olivet Congregational Church. Penny enjoyed reading books, putting puzzles together, being outside, baking and listening to music, especially George Strait.

She is survived by her husband, Paul Crim; sister, Iris Hebensreit of Olivet; brothers, Eric (Janice) Endsley of Newberry, Max Endsley of Bellevue; good friend Leah Hoig of Kalamazoo as well as many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Penny was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Sue Rintamaki; brother, Jack Endsley; godchild, Andrea Hoig.

A memorial service will take place on October 19, 2024, from 1-4 at 9325 Reynolds Rd., Bellevue, MI 49201. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Bellevue First Responders in loving memory of Penny Marie Crim. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

Larry Dennis Clark who had a kind heart and a hard worker, died October 4, 2024. Larry, 78, of Eaton Rapids, Michigan was born November 14, 1945, in Brazil, Indiana to Everett and Wilma (Bullerdick) Clark. After graduation from Charlotte High School, Larry worked for General Motors for forty-two years. Larry loved to garden where he grew huge heirloom tomatoes and peppers which he gave away. Larry loved spending time with his grandchildren and mowing his yard.

Larry is survived by his son, Jeff (Gretchen) Clark; daughter, Sheri Clark; grandchildren, Brittany (Jeremy) Willadson, Jasmine (James) Clark, John Parsons, Codie (Dakata) Zakora and Taylor Stults; great-grandchildren, Makayla, Madalynn, Abigail, Jaylinn, Ronan, Everlyn, Colson; step-children, Cheryl (Tim) Miller, Michael Wright, and Joel Wright; grandchildren, TJ (Amy) Davis, Uriah Cole Cervantes, Cody (Mary) Cervantes, and Michelle Powers; great-grandchildren, Tyler James Davids, Rose Antonina Davids, Autumn Taressa Cervantes, Wyatt Cole Cervantes, Olivia Grace Hancock, Waylan Timothy Cervantes, Alaina Maize Cervantes, Emberly Blue Cervantes, Arwyn Rosemary Cervantes, Bodee Tiger Cervantes; great-great-grandchild, Estelle Victoria Wilson and sister, Judy Moncrief. He was predeceased by his parents and sister, Betty Priest.

Friends are encouraged to support Larry’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Thursday, October 10, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. Funeral services were Friday, October 11, 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Elder Jeff Teachout officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial donations to The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses of Charlotte, MI. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Philip Henry Byington, Age 98, of Vermontville, passed away October 1, 2024, in his home.

Philip was born December 1, 1925, in Herculaneum, MO to Oliver and Flora (Blair) Byington.

He moved to Michigan in 1943 where he soon met the love of his life, Peggy Buck. In 1946 he joined the Army Air Corp, getting stationed at Elmendorf Air Base in Anchorage, Alaska. Peggy joined him there and they were joined in holy matrimony on September 30, 1947. They celebrated 70 years together before she passed December 20, 2017.

Philip was preceded in death by his wife Peggy Mardelle (Buck) Byington, his parents, eight siblings, grandsons Alex and Derek, and great grandchildren LJ, Lilley, and Jonathan.

He is survived by his children Sandra (Dennis) Mick, Gwen Jo (Mark) Anderson, Jeff (Barb) Byington, Jennifer (Jurrell) Hibdon, Cliff (Karen) Byington, and Penny Byington (Allen Hapeman), his sister Alice (Barry) Carty, three sister in laws and brother in law Jon (Connie) Buck, as well as 17 grandchildren, 44 great grandchildren, and seven great great grandchildren.

Philip will be interred privately at Fort Custer National Cemetery alongside his wife Peggy.

There will be a Celebration of Life service for Philip at Vermontville Bible Church, located at 250 N. Main St., Vermontville, MI, on Wednesday, October 23, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. with a luncheon to follow. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Daniels Funeral Home – Nashville, conveniently located at 9200 E. M79 Hwy., Nashville, MI. For more information, please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net.

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Funeral Services:

Sheila Ann Rugg, 88 of Charlotte, Michigan went to be with her beloved Lord and Savior on Friday, October 4, 2024. Sheila was born in Lansing, Michigan on October 27, 1935, to George and Maxine Henderson.

Family was truly the corner of Sheila’s life. She loved taking road trips with her grandkids, often getting lost, calling these trips, “Going on an adventure”. Sheila was skilled at making people smile with her campy sense of humor. Even in her later years when she became homebound, she still found ways to brighten people’s days. Maybe you were one of the lucky ones to receive a singing phone call. Sheila was an avid reader and had a lifelong passion for learning. Sheila truly loved the Lord and shared that love by serving the lost and lonely in her community.

Sheila is preceded in death by her husband, Fredrick D. Rugg Jr. She is survived by her 4 children, Shanna Moran, Stacy Badger (Guy Badger), Mary Christensen (David Cantu), and Christy Long (Fred Long). She is preceded in death by her son, Daniel Rugg.

She is survived by her dear lifelong friend Mary Jo Scott. Sheila is survived by 20 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Sheila is also survived by two friends Will Burton and Dustin Marriner.

A memorial service was held on Monday, October 7, 2024, in Charlotte. Her family will lay her to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery in Vermontville at a future date.

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Funeral Services:

Denise “Dee” Ellyn Heisler, 81, of Olivet, passed away on October 5, 2024, at Sparrow Health System in Lansing. Dee was born on July 9, 1943 to Russell and Cristina (Noss) Wagoner in Albion, MI. She married Fred H. Heisler on October 5, 1963, in Homer, MI. Fred preceded Dee in death on June 23, 2016. Dee graduated from Olivet College and worked as a substitute teacher for Olivet Schools.

She was a fan of University of Michigan and Detroit Tigers. Dee liked to travel to New Orleans and Florida. She would home school kids and help out at track meets at Olivet schools. Dee loved her children most of all.

Dee is survived by her children, Sherrie (Jeff) Case of Olivet, MI, Tammy (George) Poulopoulos of Marshall, Mike Heisler of Olivet, MI, Brian (Carri) Heisler of Olivet, MI, Brett (Dawn) Heisler of Albion, MI; eight grandchildren, seven great-Grandchildren and sister, Sue (John) Dogan.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Craig Wagoner.

Dee’s family had a gathering on Friday, October 11, 2024, from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Lee Township Hall in Olivet.

Those wishing to make a contribution in memory of Dee may do so to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the Dementia Foundation.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services. Please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guestbook, to share memories and pictures with the family.

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Funeral Services:

Samuel LeRoy Love of Charlotte, passed away October 5, 2024, at the age of 64. Sam was born on February 13, 1960, in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, the son of Norman and Phyllis (Scott) Love. He was a proud graduate of Eaton Rapids High School, class of 1978, where he showcased his athleticism by playing football, tennis, and participating in swimming. Sam’s love for sports continued throughout his life, notably as an avid Spartan fan. He could always be found tailgating at Spartan Stadium, where his infectious enthusiasm brought people together.

After a fulfilling career at General Motors, Sam retired and channeled his passion into becoming a licensed builder. His work with the Charlotte Planning Commission displayed his deep commitment to the city he loved, reflecting his desire to give back to his community. Sam’s voice could often be heard announcing Charlotte’s football, baseball, and softball games.

A lover of the outdoors, Sam enjoyed hunting and fishing, always enthusiastic about sharing these moments with his children and grandchildren. Camping trips were events full of laughter and storytelling, as he relished the time spent with family and friends. His culinary skills were apparent to all who had the pleasure of tasting his dishes, as he loved to cook for those he cherished.

Sam’s woodworking skills were admirable, handcrafting many special pieces for his loved ones. These pieces will be treasured reminders of his skill, love, and dedication. Above all, Sam will be remembered as “everyone’s handyman,” always there to lend a helping hand. He was fiercely loyal to his family and friends. Those who knew him could always count on his support, kindness, and willingness to go the extra mile.

Sam is survived by his loving wife, Kelly (Koos) Love; children, Shalyne (Sean) Harris, Victorria (Joshua Snead) Chavez, Ashley Chavez-Ross, and Tiffaney Chavez; grandchildren, Cadence Harris, Felicity Harris, Bryce Ross, Cameron Ross, Dakota Ross, Sofia DeMasters, Lillyanna DeMasters, Mia Snead, Hayden McLean, and Landyn McLean; mother, Phyllis Love; sisters, LuAnn (Gary) Gloden and Joanie (Van Mollette) Love; sisters-in-law Kristy Koos-Volz and Kathy (Ron) Bristol; brother-in-law Kim (Paulette) Koos; special friends Karen and Jeff Beasley, Deb and Steve Shaughnessy, as well as several special nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Norman LeRoy Love and in-laws Merlin and Patricia (McConnell) Koos.

A visitation was held at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel on October 8, 2024, from 6-8 p.m. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

Tammy Jo Olney, age 59, of Eaton Rapids, MI, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 3, 2024. Born on October 14, 1964, in Eaton Rapids, Tammy was the beloved daughter of Thomas and Alma (Peckham) Brooks. She grew up in Eaton Rapids, where she excelled academically, graduating as salutatorian from Eaton Rapids High School in 1982. Tammy furthered her education at Davenport College, earning an associate degree in accounting.

On January 9, 1984, Tammy began her illustrious 40-year career at Farm Credit, starting as a related services secretary. Through her dedication and hard work, she rose to the position of senior loan accountant, retiring shortly before her passing on September 30, 2024.

In 1985, Tammy married her soulmate, Robert Olney, and together they built a beautiful life, raising two daughters. Following the heartbreaking loss of her youngest daughter, Veronica, to cancer, Tammy channeled her grief into action, organizing “relay” rummage sales to support the American Cancer Society. Over 15 years, with the help of family and friends, she raised nearly $30,000 in Veronica’s memory.

Tammy’s love of dance was evident throughout her life. Starting as a student at the age of three at Marceil’s School of Dance, she went on to teach tap and jazz at Lisa’s Island Dance Centre. She danced for 55 years, attended countless dance conventions, and helped run music for annual dance recitals, a true testament to her passion for the art.

In recent years, Tammy cherished spending time with her grandchildren, often visiting zoos and aquariums, and traveling across the country to cheer on her great-nephew at his college football games.

Tammy is preceded in death by her cherished daughter, Veronica Olney; brother, Tom Brooks; father, Thomas Brooks; and her in-laws, Thomas and Mable (Bursley) Olney.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 39 years, Robert Olney; loving daughter, Brooke (James) Vredenburg; precious grandchildren, Veronica and Wilhelm Vredenburg; her dear mother, Alma Weber; and her “son from another mother,” Austyn Platte, and numerous nieces and nephews. Tammy will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were touched by her kindness and generosity.

A memorial service to honor Tammy’s life will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Robins United Methodist Church in Eaton Rapids, MI. Visitation took place at the funeral home on Friday, October 11, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., and again one hour prior to the service on Saturday.

For those wishing to make a memorial contribution, donations may be made to Make-A-Wish Michigan, 25 Michigan St. NE #1200, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 in Tammy’s memory. To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Funeral Services:

William “Bill” Arden Berry of Albion, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2024, in Marshall, MI, at the age of 83. Bill was born on June 20, 1941, in Addison, MI, the son of the late Arden and Doris (Tingley) Berry. In 1974, he married the love of his life, Lynn, and together they embarked on a journey that would span five decades, filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams. Their partnership was a testament to their commitment to each other and their family. Bill was the owner of Mid-State Industrial for many years. His passion for the outdoors was evident through his love for hunting and fishing, which he shared with his lifelong friend Bud Morton. He also enjoyed working on and around the farm his whole life. Bill and his wife enjoyed summers at their home in Michigan and traveled each winter to Marco Island, Florida, to enjoy the warmth and sunshine.

He is survived by his wife, Lynn Berry; son, Mark (Brenda) Drummond, as well as his cherished grandchildren, Michelle Walker, Brittany (Ben) Durham, Sarah (Michael) Hubbard, Andrew (Jessica) Drummond, Blake Drummond, Paige Drummond, and Joshua Drummond; great grandchildren, Oliver and Theodore Hubbard; sister, Kay (James) Trosper as well as several nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Arden and Doris Berry; children, Wendy Bradford and Kevin (Kelly) Drummond; grandson, Scott Drummond.

A funeral service was held at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel on October 5, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. with visitation one hour prior and the evening before from 6-8 p.m. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in loving memory of William Arden Berry. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

Christine Elizabeth Cowles, a beloved wife, mother, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Springport on September 27, 2024, at the age of 69. She was surrounded by her loving family and friends. Born in Lansing, Michigan, on May 31, 1955, to Carson and Phyllis (Langenfeld) Ackley, Chris inherited many wonderful traits from both her parents.

Her father imparted to her a love of adventure, a passion for road trips, and a keen eye for discovering treasures in unexpected places. From her mother, Chris inherited the love of sewing and the ability to transform the ordinary into something beautiful. These qualities shaped her into a woman whose creativity, generosity, and joy enriched the lives of all who knew her.
Chris was a proud 1973 graduate of Eaton Rapids High School. One of her most treasured school memories was winning a dance contest with her brother Tim.

Chris’s professional journey began at MESSA in 1975, where her dedication and leadership skills saw her rise through the ranks to become a treasured manager. Along the way, she cultivated deep and lasting friendships with colleagues. She later became the co-owner of Rapids Tumble Finish and co-founded the Promise Breakers Club alongside her devoted husband, Loren, with whom she shared a deep and enduring bond. After a fulfilling career, Chris chose to retire and focus on what she cherished most: time spent with her family and friends.

A woman of many passions, Chris delighted in sharing her favorite books, documentaries, and television shows, while her love of music was a gift she passed on to her children. Her creativity found further expression in the countless hours she spent knitting and quilting, each piece lovingly crafted as a symbol of her devotion to family and friends.

Chris met the love of her life and best friend, Loren, through her sister Cathy and Cathy’s husband, Bud. Their marriage in 1983 marked the beginning of a partnership rooted in love, laughter, and shared dreams. In May 1984, they welcomed their daughter, Betsy, and together with Loren’s sons, Brian and Tim, they created a close-knit family.

Chris’s memory lives on in the hearts of her children, Brian (Melissa) Cowles of Cincinnati, OH, Tim (Faiza) Cowles of Chicago, IL, and Betsy (Slater) Cowles of Eaton Rapids, as well as her beloved grandchildren, Luke, Nora, Mia, Alex, Holden, Esme, Wyeth, Dylan, and Vivianne. She is also survived by her siblings, Thomas (Vicki) Ackley of Eaton Rapids, Timothy (Jackie) Ackley of Bellaire, Cathy (Bud) Cowles of Eaton Rapids, Janice (Jim) Boice of Perry, Joseph (Pam) Ackley of Norton Shores, Robert (Annette) Ackley of Eaton Rapids, William Ackley of Eaton Rapids, and Mary (Scott) Patrick of Lansing, as well as her sister-in-law, Sue Ackley of Eaton Rapids.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Loren Cowles, in 2023; her parents, Carson and Phyllis Ackley; and her siblings, James Ackley, Richard Ackley, and Carol Clark.

Though she is no longer with us, Chris’s legacy of love, kindness, and creativity will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church of Charlotte on November 2, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. with visitation one hour prior. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Karmanos Cancer Institute of McLaren or McLaren Hospice and Palliative Care in Lansing. Arrangements were entrusted to Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. To leave condolences for the family, please visit www.millsfuneral.com.