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Funeral Services:

Diana Kay Tharp, a dedicated teacher, died peacefully on Wednesday, July 4, 2018, in Charlotte. Diana, 56, of Charlotte, was born October 24, 1961, in Charlotte, the daughter of Carroll E. and Jane Anne (Smith) Tharp.  She lived an active childhood, always involved in the outdoors and school activities. Following graduation from Charlotte High School in 1979, she earned her bachelors of education from University of South Carolina and spent more than 10 years teaching in Whitmore, S.C., and Fayetteville, N.C. She later taught science at Pansophia Charter School in Coldwater.

Diana devoted her life to her students, always inspiring the wonder of science in them. She often led expeditions along the beaches of South Carolina to rescue migrating turtles. In Michigan, she ensured that foreign exchange students found the best experience in their studies, hosting trips up North to Mackinac Island and beyond. She enjoyed volunteering as a docent at the Binder Park Zoo. Diana volunteered much of her time to her community and her church. As a member of the Gresham United Methodist Church, she helped organize various activities.  She served as her mother, Jane’s “right hand” at the Charlotte Community Nursery Preschool. Diana also loved special trips with her Aunts, and time spent with her nieces and nephews.

Diana is survived by her mother, Jane Ann Tharp; siblings, David (Betsy) Tharp, Sharon Gault, and Mark Tharp; aunts, Helen (Jack) Snedeker and Sue (Dick) Trimble; special nephew, Ian “Bug” Gault; and her nieces, nephews and cousins.

She is predeceased by her father; aunt, Sally Vanderploeg; and her brother-in-law, Danny Gault.

A memorial gathering will be held at a later date.

If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society or Gresham United Methodist Church.

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

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Funeral Services:

Kyle Edwin Kelley, 50 of Vermontville, a handyman that was always known for helping others, passed away unexpectedly on June 25, 2018 at his home. Kyle was born September 23, 1967. He was very mechanically inclined, rebuilding the home of his family into their dream home. Kyle was a jack-of-all-trades, who had many hobbies and could build or fix almost anything. He was most proud of the cabin he was building that he planned to move to. He recently helped a few friends build their pole barns and other construction. Kyle had a great sense of humor, and way to make you laugh so hard you would cry. He married his beloved wife, Kelli, on August 8, 2008, although they have actually been together for 23 years.

Kyle was an animal-lover, especially German Shepherds and Pitbulls. He leaves behind his many pets including the “best dog he ever had,” Molly. Kyle’s family is very grateful for the time they had with him. He made a lasting impression on anyone he met and will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his wife, Kelli (Bowen) Kelley; parents, Larry and Yvonne Kelley of Charlotte; children, Kalyn Schneckenberger and Ryan Schneckenberger; sisters, Teri (John) Price of Holt, and Amber (Marv) Argersinger of St. Johns; brother, AJ (Ali) Preston of Charlotte; mother-in-law, Sue Bowen; brothers-in-law, Kevin (Lori) Bowen and Kraig (Lisa) Bowen of Charlotte; several nieces and nephews; and two great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Max and Doris Kelley; father-in-law, Larry Bowen; and beloved dog, Shelby.

In keeping with the wishes of Kyle, there will be a Celebration of Life on Sunday, July 15, 2018 at the American Legion from 2 to 5 p.m.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family if desired.

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

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Funeral Services:

Garry F. Craven, formerly of Charlotte, passed away peacefully at his home in Elkhart, Ind. on Sunday, June 24, 2018 at the age of 71. He attended Charlotte High School, graduating in 1965.

He was preceded in death by his father, Frank Craven; and youngest brother, Timothy Craven.

Garry is survived by his mother, Elaine Craven; wife, Sandra Ignafol; sons, Douglas (Lisa) Craven, Mitchell (Michelle) Craven; and stepson, Stephen Krecsmar. Garry was the proud grandfather of Ethan and Olivia, Douglas’s children and Madison, Mitchell’s child. Garry will be fondly remembered by his brothers, Roger (Ruth) Craven, Gregory (Johanna) Craven; and sister, Judy (Jim) Greening and his many nieces and nephews.

Garry was a proud patriot and served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. As an avid conservationist, Garry had a deep love for the Upper Peninsula of Michigan where he enjoyed many seasons hunting, ATV riding, hiking and spending time with family. Remembered as “U.P. Grouser,” he will forever rest up north at Nevins Lake.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

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Funeral Services:

Barbara Ruth Pittenger, 89, of Charlotte, passed away Tuesday, June 26, 2018, at Eaton County Health and Rehabilitation Services in Charlotte. She was born October 22, 1928, in Lansing, the daughter of Clifford and Marion (Gearhart) Bever. Barb grew up on the family farm in Grand Ledge. She graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1946. Barb was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She adored her grandchildren and cherished every opportunity she had to spend together with them. Throughout her life Barb enjoyed listening to Big Band music and flowers. In later years she enjoyed her job at the Charlotte Walmart, where she worked as a greeter.

Barb is survived by her children, Doug (Julie) Murray of Louisa, Ky., Sharon (Gary) Russell of Nashville, Ann (Jim) LeMay of DeWitt; 11 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and one great great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert; and two brothers.

Funeral services were held on Friday, June 29, 2018, at 1 p.m. at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. Interment took place at West Carmel Cemetery.

Those desiring may make contributions in Barb’s honor to Ele’s Place in Lansing.

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

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Funeral Services:

Richard Lyman “Dick” Chamberlain, 82, of Haslett, our beloved brother and uncle passed away June 21, 2018. He was born August 23, 1935 in Charlotte. He was a 1953 graduate of Charlotte High School. He begin his career with the U.S. Postal Service as a mail carrier in Charlotte and later in many supervisory roles in Lansing before retiring in 1990 after 35 years of service.  In 1996 he went to work at Hawk Hollow and Eagle Eye Golf Courses, where he made many great friends. He loved spending his winters in The Villages in Florida. He attended MSU and played the drums in the marching and concert bands. He enjoyed parades. He played in the VFW Band, Spartan Alumni Band (winning three national championships), and the Capital Caravan Club Oriental Band. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge 120 of Charlotte and a member of the Lansing Commandery Drill Team. He was a member of the Eaton County Shrine Club and the Capital Commandery. He was the 1973 president of the Charlotte Lions Club. He was an avid fan of MSU sports.

Surviving are his four sisters, Beverly Meeder, Joyce (Gary) Shirkey, Sue Huffman, and Ruth Ann Sigler; six nieces and nephews, Gary Meeder, Nancy Folkertsma, Cindy (Dave) Dunn, Susan Oliver, Kurt Shirkey, and Kyle (Deborra) Shirkey; four great-nieces and one great-nephew.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Lyman and Gertrude Chamberlain and nephew, Kraig Shirkey.

A celebration of Dick’s life will be held in October. We would like to thank all of Dick’s devoted friends for their support and visits during his illness.

Contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice in memory of Dick.

Arrangements were made by Tiffany Funeral Home.  Friends may visit the guest book at tiffanyfuneralhome.com.

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Funeral Services:

Donald “Donnie” Martin Klingshirn, a faith-filled, teddy bear of a man, died unexpectedly at his home on Wednesday, June 20, 2018.  Donnie, 73, of Charlotte, was born November 11, 1944 in Rogers City, Mich., the son of Alfred and Anna (Grochowski) Klingshirn. He graduated from high school in Rogers City in 1962 and shortly after moved to Charlotte to take a job with Harris Brothers, fellow Rogers City natives. He proudly answered the call to duty when he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served in the Vietnam War, where he helped build the airport in Cam Ranh Bay. Upon his return, he married the love of his life, Jane “Janie” Orban, on May 18, 1968. The two started their family and Donnie went to work for Oldsmobile, retiring in 2004 after over 30 years. In retirement, Donnie worked for Delta Airlines at the Lansing airport, working in many capacities on and off the tarmac.

Donnie and Janie were devout members of St. Mary Parish in Charlotte, where he was very involved in St. Vincent DePaul and the Knights of Columbus, achieving the honor of fourth degree brother knight. Everyone will remember Donnie as the beloved St. Nicholas, visiting Mass during the feast day in full staff and mitre and handing out candy canes. He also sang in the church choir, and participated in every church function throughout the years.

He loved the Detroit Tigers, the ink on his fingertips from reading “real” newspapers, and woodworking. He was a skilled handyman and craftsman, always keeping things running around the house and helping with woodcraft for Janie’s elementary art classes at St. Mary School. He loved music, and even enjoyed the opportunity to sing the “12 days of Christmas” on stage with Kenny Rogers. Donnie remained proud of his service to his country, his faith, and his family. One of his greatest joys in life as “Dzia Dzia” was time spent with his grandchildren, especially attending their many activities and events.

Donnie is survived by his wife of 50 years, Jane Klingshirn; three daughters, Marcy Klingshirn, Kristy (Steve) Shepard, and Jenny (Larry) Hart; five grandchildren, Amelia, Annalise, Adeline, Gunnar and Archar; four siblings, Betty Valentin, Barbara (Gary) Lamb, Jimmy (Nancy) Klingshirn, and Mary (Mike) Witulski; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his brother, Charles Klingshirn; sister-in-law, Gayle Klingshirn; and his parents.

Friends are encouraged to support Donnie’s family at visitation and funeral services. Funeral Mass was held Monday, June 25, 2018 at St. Mary Catholic Church, with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating.

If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to St. Mary Parish or St. Vincent DePaul.

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

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Funeral Services:

Beverly Jean England of Eaton Rapids passed away after a short battle with cancer on June 25, 2018. Bev was born in Eaton Rapids, February 18, 1935, the daughter of Franklin and Violet (Weatherby) Rockafellow. She worked as a bookkeeper for several companies. Bev was a member of the Jean Bradford Kline Senior Center, was an avid doll collector and loved to work in her flower and vegetable gardens.

Beverly is survived by her husband, Richard England; children, T. Michael (Darlene) Swan of Eaton Rapids, Timothy Swan of Charlotte, Debra England of Charlotte, Richard (Debra) England of Elsie, Michael Swan of Eaton Rapids; grandchildren, Mischelle Prill, Melissa (Donny) Bever, Teresa (Jamie) Bartley, Rachel (Scott) McCune, Jerry England, Joshua England, Ricky (Misty) England, Tony Swan, Trevor (Katie) Swan, Stacee (Justin) Robison, Dillon (Harley) Swan; 20 great-grandchildren; three great great-grandchildren; siblings, Judy Husted, Joyce Burlison, Robert Rockafellow, Keith (Carol) Rockafellow.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Juanita Kirchen, James and Donald Rockafellow; great-grandchildren, Victoria Tanner and Hayden Bartley.

A Celebration of Life will be held July 15, 2018 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 600 S. Main St., Eaton Rapids.

Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Jean Bradford Kline Senior Center, 201 Grand St., Eaton Rapids, MI 48827.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. Please visit millsfuneral.com to place online condolences or to sign the guest book.

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Funeral Services:

Tanya Rene Barnes, 45, of Charlotte, died peacefully with her loving husband by her side on June 11, 2018.  Tanya was born May 10, 1973 in Fulton, Ky. to Robert and Jacqueline (Husted) Polhamus. She grew up a “military brat” living on many different military bases including a base in Germany for several years.  Tanya was a very social, loving, and caring lady who very courageously battled cancer four years. She loved all things related to motorcycles, including riding them and talking about them all the time. She enjoyed photography, and was an animal lover (especially cats and dogs). She worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Sensations Memory Care, and later at Eaton County Health and Rehabilitation Services. She enjoyed hanging out with friends and family, and was very proud of her children and grandchildren.

Tanya is survived by husband, Michael Barnes; children, Bruce, Blake, Kody, and Evan Anderson and A.J. Barnes; grandchildren, Courtney Anderson and Aubree Anderson-Smith; and parents Robert and Jacqueline Polhamus.

She was preceded in death by an infant brother, Robert Aaron Earl Polhamus; and grandparents. Edgar Husted and Caroline Berry.

Friends are encouraged to support Tanya’s family at visitation and memorial services. Memorial services are Friday, June 22, at 1 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Pastor Jack Childs officiating, and visitation prior to the services from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

If desired, the memorial contributions are suggested to the family.

Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Tanya on her Tribute Page at PrayFuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

Daune Martis, a devoted wife to her husband, John, died June 10, 2018. Daune, 74, was born December 10, 1943 in Carson City, Mich., to Franklin and Leona (Fishburn) Hall. Daune’s family shared that others would remember her for her Christian character and how she cared for others. She was a long-time member of Zion Lutheran Church in Lansing. After graduating from high school, Daune was employed at the State of Michigan in Collections at the Department of Treasury, retiring in 2004. On August 18, 1979, Daune married John Martis. Daune’s interests were varied, although she loved to be home cooking great meals. Her favorite pastime was travel. There were many trips including cruises, visiting Las Vegas and travel abroad.

Daune is survived by her husband, John; stepchildren, Scott (Cathleen Johnson) Martis, Shari Schnepp, Sandi Martis, and Shannon Martis; grandchildren, Jena and Jodi Martis, Richard Whitbeck, Dartanion (Sandra) Thomas; and great-grandchildren, Audrey and Braylon Whitbeck, and Tredon Thomas.

She was predeceased by her parents, Franklin and Leona Hall.

Funeral services were held Friday, June 15, 2018, at 11 a.m., at Zion Lutheran Church in Lansing, with Pastor Michael Bater officiating.

If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society or the Multiple Sclerosis Society.

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