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Lee E. Coltson

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Funeral Services:

Lee Edward Coltson, 80, of Bellevue passed away May 8, 2019 surrounded by his family. Lee was born September 28, 1938 to Leonard and Verle (Vrooman) Coltson of Olivet. Lee graduated from Bellevue High School in 1956. He began working at Coltson’s Clothing and Shoes and then in the office of Cheney Limestone (both in Bellevue) before starting a 17 ½-year career as a policeman/detective with the City of Battle Creek. He then took a Friend of the Court position with the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Department. Lee left the Sheriff’s Department in 1991 to start his own private detective business, which he ran until his retirement in 2016 at the age of 77.

During his life Lee was a Cub Scout Master, active in the Bellevue Athletic Boosters, President of the Bellevue Whirl-a-ways square dance club, and served on the Bellevue School Board when the new high school on Love Road was built. In addition, he was a three time past president of the Bellevue Lion’s Club, served as president of the Bellevue Alumni Association, and was elected President of the Village of Bellevue. In 2013, Lee was placed in the Bellevue High School Hall of Fame for his activities in the community during his life. 

Lee is survived by, in his words, “his very lovely wife,” Sharon (Tew) Coltson of 59 years; their three sons, Thomas (Vicky) and Timothy (Kris) of Bellevue and Patrick (Dawn) of Hastings; grandchildren, Jennifer, Jacob, Joe, Janice, Clay, and Garrett Coltson, Stasia Swiger and Betsey Smith; great-grandchildren, Skylar, Railys, and Kairi Mulkey, Hayes Coltson, Paige Smith, Evan Willis, Zachary, Matthew and Abigail Beard.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents and sister Caroline Howard.

Services will be held on May 22, 2019 at United Methodist Church in Bellevue. Family will be available for visitation starting at 10 a.m. Memorial services will begin at 11 a.m., followed by a luncheon.

Memorials may be made to the Bellevue United Methodist Church or Bellevue Lions Club.

Family and friends that wish to leave condolences, may do so by visiting lighthousefuneral.com.

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Kim Bruce

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Kim Renae Bruce, 60, of Charlotte, passed away Friday, May 10, 2019, at her home surrounded by her family. She was born January 24, 1959, in Beeville, Texas the daughter of Frederick and Angie (Wertz) Earl. Kim graduated from Charlotte High School in 1977. On August 11, 1979, she married her beloved soul mate and best friend, Randy Bruce, at the First Congregational Church in Charlotte. Kim was a fiercely devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She was the hub of her family and always saw to it that everyone was well cared for. She was especially proud of her grandchildren and loved watching them grow as individuals. Kim had many things that she enjoyed during her life. Randy and Kim built their house in 1986 and planted almost every tree on the property. She loved her magnificent flower gardens and landscaping that she created and the nature it supports. She could be found every morning with a cup of coffee and Clancy Dog at her side, having her daily coffee talk with her mom, enjoying the sights, smells, and sounds from her front porch. Kim also enjoyed cooking, boating, golfing, bowling, Detroit Tigers, MSU athletics, traveling, and spending time in nature. Kim and Randy spent many summers on the water together beginning in 1978. They cherished many special moments together, years using their jet boat, and later cruising the Great Lakes in their bigger boats.  Kim worked at Char Lanes, General Motors, drove school bus for Charlotte Public Schools, and was a devoted employee for over 27 years at the Barry/Eaton County Health Department as the hearing and vision technician, working with great people over the years and helping many children. She was also a member of the Charlotte branch of the GFWC (Greater Federation of Women’s Clubs), and Mobile Meals.

Kim is survived by her husband of nearly 40 years, Randy; daughters, Angie Marie Bruce of Charlotte, Alicia Renae Bruce of East Lansing; grandchildren, (grand)daughter Alyvia Renae Bruce, grandson, J.C. (Jason) Carroll Lea, Jr.; parents, Fred and Angie Earl of Cadillac; brothers, Mark F. Earl of Dimondale, Thomas L. Earl of Charlotte; mother-in-law, Myra Bruce of Charlotte; sisters-in-law, Johanna (Jeff) Stolowski, Diana (Geoff) Riddle, Lisa Bruce; aunts and uncles, Denny Wertz, Darry and Dee Wertz, Donny and Linda Wertz; many cousins and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Duane and Martha Wertz, Harold and Ruth Earl; father-in-law, Wally Bruce; brother-in-law, Jeff Bruce; nephew, Grant Bruce; Aunt Marsha and Uncle Thomas Dewey, Aunt Carla Wertz, and Aunt Carolyn Piersma.

A memorial service was held on Thursday, May 16, 2019, at the First Congregational Church, with Pastors Curtis Demars-Johnson and Andy Shaver officiating. 

Those desiring, may make contributions in Kim’s honor to First Congregational Church, 106 S. Bostwick, Charlotte, MI 48813, Eaton Community Palliative Care, 2675 S. Cochran Rd., Charlotte, MI 48813, or Siren/Eaton Shelter, 520 Robinson St., Charlotte, MI 48813, Journey’s Dream, https://journeysdream.org/donate-landing-page/.

To view Kim’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family, please visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.

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Roy L. Brooks

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Roy Lawrence Brooks, born January 3, 1958, passed away May 2, 2019, following a several month’s illness. A lifelong resident of the Charlotte area, Roy graduated from Charlotte High School in 1976, then commenced to develop his talent for inventing and repairing all things mechanical. His enjoyment of, and skill with building and racing cars evolved, over time, into a hobby as he focused more and more on developing his business, Roy’s Welding Fabrication and Repair. His wife, Mary, described him as a “jack of all trades,” but as a skillful welder and inventor of solutions to mechanical problems, he had no peer. No one ever left his shop at 3483 Island Highway unhappy with the work done or miffed about the price paid. A big job or little job, Roy gave it his undivided attention, creative solution, and high-quality result.

Roy is survived by his wife of 25 years, Mary (Klatt) Brooks; brother, Jon Brooks; sister, Gail Twork; daughter, Tammy Perleberg; grandchildren, Rusty and Harley Perleberg; great-granddaughter, Ava Moore; special buddies, Jerry Clay and Mike Carter; extended family members; plus countless friends, business associates, and satisfied customers.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother, Donald.

Having celebrated the life of Roy Brooks at Riedy’s on May 11, the family plans no further service. 

In lieu of flowers, donations to Roy’s family would be appreciated.

A jack of all trades, but one of a kind: Roy Brooks will be missed by all who knew him.

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Gary O. Richards

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Funeral Services:

Gary Otis Richards, 80, of Bad Axe, formerly of Charlotte, passed away Monday, April 29, 2019 due to heart complications. He was born August 16, 1938 in South Bend, Ind. to the late Walter and Hazel (Guthrie) Richards. He married Mary Kay Richards on February 21, 1976 in Charlotte. Gary was a 1957 graduate of Holt High School. He worked in various jobs, including bartender and factory work. He was a former member of Teamster, Charlotte Eagles, and the Charlotte Moose. Gary enjoyed racing cars in his younger years and enjoyed watching NASCAR. He was a huge Michigan State fan. He enjoyed the company of his friends and family, especially when he spent time with his daughters and grandsons. Gary cherished time spent with his wife, Mary Kay, the love of his life.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Mary Kay Richards of Bad Axe, formerly of Charlotte; two daughters, Valerie (Mark) Kneffel of Ubly, and Jennifer Gilmore of Phoenix, Ariz.; two grandsons, Ja’Coby Gilmore of Phoenix, and Otis Kneffel of Ubly; sister, Nancy (Ted) Kingsley of Dimondale; sister-in-law, Barbara George of Greenville, N.C.; nephews and nieces, Gary and Brinda Ridenour of Charlotte, Troy Ridenour of Ft. Myers, Fla., Jody Root of Charlotte, Dawn and Jeff Wendorf of Charlotte, Monica Murray of Lansing, Jeremy and Amy Nierecberger of Charlotte, Timothy Clark of Windermere, Fla., Joanna and Marcus Waller of Greenville, N.C., Nicholas and Angela George of Encinitas, Calif., and Christopher and Daryl George of Northvale, N.J.

A memorial service for Gary will be held June 1, 2019, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Charlotte Eagles. Memorials are suggested to the donor’s choice.

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Michael L. Broskey

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Michael Lee Broskey passed away peacefully April 26, 2019 surrounded by family following a short battle with cancer. He was born April 4, 1944. Mike had a passion for garage sales and flea markets, finding watches and clocks. 

He is survived by his children, Lori (Dave) Root, Mark (Shannon) Broskey, Mike (Pam) Broskey, Alex Joseph Broskey, Robin Broskey, Bob (Lexi) Broskey, Sonny Broskey; sisters, Mary Ellen (Denny) Geisenhaver, Myra Little, Rose Broskey; brother-in-law, Charles Leonard;  numerous nieces and nephews, and grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Joeseph and Alvina; wife, Dixie; son, Jason; siblings, Fran, Roger, Beverly, Bonnie, and Iva; brothers-in-law, Neil Geisenhaver, and Dennis Little.

There will be a celebration of Mike’s life on Sunday, May 5, 2019 at 2 p.m. at the Masonic Temple in Charlotte.

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Michael J. Sevenski

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Funeral Services:

Michael John Sevenski, 72, a caring and humble man of few words, died peacefully at home, surrounded by his family on Sunday, April 28, 2019, following a nine-year battle with cancer.  Mike was born January 20, 1947 in Lansing, the son of Carl and Helen (Gawala) Sevenski. He graduated from Everett High School in 1965 before being drafted into the U.S. Army and serving as an Army Engineer during the Vietnam War. Following his honorable discharge, he worked final repair for General Motors, retiring in 2001. He served three years as the GM/Pontiac Representative for national auto shows. Mike married Sandy Keeler on February 25, 1967, and the two lived a life of love and happiness raising their four children. Mike and Sandy remained active at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte throughout the years. Mike was one of the founders of St. Mary’s St. Vincent DePaul Society and a member of the church Men’s Club.  

Mike was known as “Huey,” a nickname given to him from his childhood best-friend Mike (Horsehead) Olger.  He enjoyed time spent with family and friends bowling, hunting, league softball, and trips to the casino.  Mike coached hundreds of kids in youth leagues, and loved to make people laugh and had a soft spot for the less fortunate. He loved trips up north to the family property in Elmira, where he enjoyed tinkering out in the pole barn. Mike was the Duck Tape King, and was often quoted as saying, “If it can’t be fixed, duck tape it.” He loved and cared for animals, usually inheriting them from his children. Mike was proud of over 40 years of sobriety, and always served as an example of a strong work ethic. Above all, Mike lived a life of Faith, and loved his family.

Mike is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sandy Sevenski; their children, Renee Sevenski, Michael John Sevenski II, Cami Sevenski, and Ryan (Dawn) Sevenski;  he will be remembered as “Pa” by his grandchildren, Kelsey (Michael) Sailor, Konner Whitinger, Anna Marie Sevenski, and Steven Michael Sevenski; great-grandchildren, Michael and Ty Sailor; brother, Carl Sevenski; sisters, Sandra Eldred and Joyce (Larry) Cords; and brother-in-law, Arthur Montgomery. 

He was predeceased by his brother, Richard Sevenski; sister, Carlyne Montgomery; brother-in-law, Lyle Eldred; and nephew, Mark Montgomery.

A Funeral Mass of Celebration was held at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 3, 2019 at St. Mary Catholic Church, with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating.  

Memorial donations may be made to St. Vincent DePaul of Charlotte or Hospice of Lansing, 3186 Pinetree Rd., Lansing, MI 48911, hopsiceoflansing.org.  

Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Michael on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.  

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Marilyn U. Ranshaw

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Marilyn Uvon Ranshaw, a devoted farmer, wife, mother and grandmother, of Potterville, died Friday, April 26, 2019. Marilyn, 90, was born July 2, 1928 in Potterville, to Virgil and Lorene (Troyer) Fosket. On July 4, 1945, Marilyn, at the age 17 married her sweetheart, Robert Ranshaw and together spent the next 70 years creating their legacy. Their legacy consisted of the family farm. Each year they farmed vegetables and fruit. She devoted her entire life to her family, from working on the farm with her husband and sons, to cheering on her grandchildren during their sporting events. Even with high demand on the family, Marilyn and Robert were able to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with their family in Branson, Missouri. Marilyn was very strong in her faith, attending church and being involved with prayer groups. Above all Marilyn was most proud of her sons and her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.   

Marilyn is survived by sons, Dick (Libby) Ranshaw, Larry (Diane) Ranshaw; grandchildren, Ryan, Chad, Clint (Normarie), Blake (Rebecca) Ranshaw; five great-grandchildren; siblings, Vernon (Joan) Fosket, Dianne Fulgum. 

She was predeceased by her husband, Robert in 2015 and her parents.  

Memorial services are Saturday, May 4, 2019, at 11 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Pastor Keith Sova officiating. Visitation will be held from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Friends are encouraged to support Marilyn’s family. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to The Hospice House of Mid-Michigan.  

Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Marilyn on her tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.

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Gary D. Underwood

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Gary Dean Underwood, a loving father, husband and compassionate man, of Charlotte died on Saturday, April 27, 2019 after a short battle with Cancer. Gary, 68, was born 1950, in Charleston, W.V., the son of Willis and Gladys Underwood. Following graduation from Charlotte High School in 1968, Gary worked for General Motors for 30 years. Gary married his sweetheart, Jean (Groh) and spent the next 36 years creating their legacy together. He loved everything outdoors, from riding his Harley to hunting, fishing, boating, traveling, riding ATVs, rock hunting, and golfing. Gary could always be found enjoying life. Family and friends meant so much to Gary. Family and friends will remember Gary for being a handyman that could fix anything. There was no job too difficult for him. 

Gary is survived by his wife, Jean; children, Maggie (Jennifer Tabar) Underwood, Dennis Underwood, Brooke Underwood and Jimmy Underwood; and his dearest friends. 

He was predeceased by his parents and siblings, Darrel Underwood, Carol Stutler, and Paul Underwood.  

Funeral services were held Wednesday, May 1, 2019, at 4 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. 

Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Gary on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com. 

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Theodore R. Marshall

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Theodore Robert Marshall II, 55, of Eaton Rapids, passed away Tuesday, April 30, 2019. He was born September 12, 1963 in Charlotte, the son of Theodore and Margaret (Henderson) Marshall. Theodore was an avid reader throughout his entire life. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy. 

Theodore is survived by his children, Meghan Marshall, Matthew Marshall; grandchildren, Trenton Wiseley, Winter Wiseley; father, Theodore R. Marshall; siblings, Debra Ethridge, Sindi Marshall, Tammy (Gary) Bower, Lisa Marshall, Beth Peeler; and several nieces, nephews, and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda; mother, Margaret; sister, Lori Henry; niece, Maggie Marshall; nephew, Joshua Meacham. 

A memorial service will be held on Monday, May 6, 2019 at 2 p.m. at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. 

Those desiring, may make contributions in Theodore’s honor to the family.

To view Theodore’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family, please visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.

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Max L. Bottomley

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Funeral Services:

Max Leroy Bottomley, 96, of Midland, passed away April 25, 2019. He was born Feb. 5, 1923, in Charlotte. Max married his beloved high school sweetheart, Martha Snow. She preceded him in death after 71 years of marriage.

After graduating from Charlotte High School, he entered Michigan State University. While attending Michigan State University, he joined Army ROTC. He was called to active duty to serve in World War II and attended officer candidate school. He served as a Lieutenant in the 65th Infantry Division, a part of Patton’s Third Army in its march across Europe. His unit was in Enns, Austria, when the war ended. He then returned to Michigan State University and graduated with a B.S. degree in Chemistry.

In 1947, Max started his 39-year career at Dow Chemical Company. He was on the teams that developed latex paint and Methocel. At another time during his career he was a technical expert in a patent infringement case. He was a member of the Midland Jaycees, a founding member of both the Kiwassee Kiwanis Club of Midland and the Midland Jayvesters Investment Club. He was an active member in the community, including treasurer of the Midland Historical Society and served on the Investment Committee of the Midland Center for the Arts.
Above all else, Max was a devoted family man, involving himself in his children’s activities such as Boy Scouts, youth sports, and PTA. He enjoyed traveling to Europe, was an avid golfer, participating in several golf leagues, and was a loyal Spartan fan. He was a longtime member of the Midland First United Methodist Church, serving as an usher and on many committees.

He is survived by his sister Shirley Wahlstrom of Novi; children, Douglas (Jane) of Kalamazoo, Bruce (Sharon) of New Canaan, Conn., Anne (Bruce) Metzdorf of Granger, Ind., Richard (Susan) of Rancho Mirage, Calif., Peggy (Thomas) Carr of Suffield, Conn., and Janice (Peter) Mowry of Carmel, Ind.; 12 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. 

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by siblings Don and Marcia, and one grandson, Connor Mowry.

Funeral services took place at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 3, 2019, at the First United Methodist Church. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider the First United Methodist Church, the Midland Center for the Arts, with a designation to the Historical Society, Bradley Home Restoration Fund. Condolences to the family may be made online at waresmithwoolever.com.

The family is most appreciative of the care and support of the Independence Village staff and Hospice of Mid-Michigan Health Home Care.

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