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Funeral Services:

Judith Diane Morgan of Eaton Rapids passed away July 14, 2026, at the age of 84. Judith was born in Mason, Michigan on January 26, 1942, the daughter of Ernest and Marcella (Higbie) Burlew. 

She married the love of her life, Jack, on June 12, 1964. Judith was a schoolteacher at Lockwood Elementary in Eaton Rapids. She and Jack attended Eaton Rapids Church of the Nazarene. Judith was very involved in the church. She was a board member, helped with missions, taught Sunday school, sang in the choir and helped with funeral luncheons. Judith was known for her handwritten letters and cards to family, friends and church members. She had a beautiful voice and enjoyed singing for people. Judith was an angel and will be dearly missed by her friends and family.

Judith is survived by her husband, Jack Morgan; children, Heather Fuller, Christopher (Karen) Morgan, Matthew (Suzette) Morgan; grandchildren, Amber, Kelsey, Jonathan, Morgan, Nicole, Kiana, Khai; great grandchildren, Emmalyn, Kyle, Trey, Charlie, Brady, Carter, Emmett; brother, Larry (Linda) Burlew; sister-in-law, Betty Burlew; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Norman Burlew; sister, Nancy Allison.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Eaton Rapids Church of the Nazarene on Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026, at 11 a.m. with visitation one hour prior to the service. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. 

For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or the Alzheimer’s Association in loving memory of Judith Diane Morgan. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

Larry Herman Schulze, age 87, passed away August 4, 2026. He was born on November 20, 1938 in Charlotte, Michigan to William Schulze and Bertha (Debler) Schulze. Larry proudly served in the United States Army, where he was stationed in Germany. When he returned to the states he farmed with his aunt and uncle, Mary and Niles Litchfield, for several years.

In 1963 Larry started working at Lansing Heat Treat, later Atmosphere Annealing. He helped set up four heat treats in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana. He retired in 2003.

In October, of 1960 he married Rosella “Suzie” Janousek who survives him, along with their remaining daughter, Danette Minnie; daughter-in-law, Karen Schulze; son-in-law Dave Conklin; six grandchildren, Jennifer (Gabe Bulock) Schulze, Larry William Schulze, Brianna (Richard) Thomas, Thomas Minnie, Aaron Minnie, and Autumn Minnie; six great-grandchildren, Caleb Wightman, Avery Thomas, Morgan Robison, Carter Schulze, Jordan Schulze and Lucian Minnie. Larry was predeceased by his parents; son Stephen Schulze; daughter Barbara Conklin; grandson, Rhoby Conklin.

Larry loved traveling and camping with the grandchildren. He loved the outdoors and Lake Michigan was a favorite place. 

Friends are encouraged to support Larry’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Friday, Aug. 7, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral services are 2 p.m., Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Chuck Jenson officiating.  Interment will take place in Gresham Cemetery.  

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 Larry’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Alzheimer’s Association Michigan Chapter. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Belinda Kuch, born on April 6, 1964, in San Juan, Texas, passed away on August 1, 2026 in Bellevue, Michigan. Her life spanned 62 years filled with the warmth of family, the joy of simple pleasures, and a steadfast love for those she held dear.

A proud graduate of Holt High School, Belinda was a member of the class of 1982. Throughout her life, she remained devoted to her family and community, always ready to lend a helping hand or share a laugh. Her fun-loving spirit and caring nature were evident to all who knew her.

Belinda found happiness in many small, cherished pursuits. She loved going to garage sales, always searching for hidden treasures that brought joy both to herself and those she treasured. An avid rockhound, she delighted in the simple beauty of nature’s offerings. She also enjoyed collecting clocks. Her creative talents shone through in her sewing and crafts.

As a Girl Scout Troop Leader during her daughters’ formative years, Belinda dedicated herself to fostering courage and friendship in young girls, shaping countless lives along the way.

Above all, Belinda’s heart belonged to her family. She loved cooking for them, and her homemade tamales were a staple at family gatherings, creating traditions and memories that will be cherished for generations. She especially treasured the role of grandmother, finding immense joy in the company of her only granddaughter, Hannah.

Belinda is survived by her husband of 37 years, Matt; her children, David Kuch, Jessica (Justin) McGinty, Samantha (Paul) Smith; her granddaughter, Hannah; brothers, Jim (Tina) Garcia, Jamie (Julie) Garcia; many nieces, nephews, friends; and last but not least, her little dog, Jo-Jo.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Cipriano and Lucia (Garza) Garcia.

To view Belinda’s obituary or to leave condolences online for her family, please visit her personal page at www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com 

Following Belinda’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date.

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

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Funeral Services:

Karen Ann Willison, 56, of Charlotte, Michigan, a generous and faithful woman who found joy in serving others, died on July 28, 2026. Karen was born on January 15, 1970, the daughter of Jack and Shirley (King) Willison.

Karen graduated from Olivet High School with the Class of 1988. Quiet and compassionate by nature, she dedicated much of her life to helping others, especially the elderly. She also volunteered by assembling care packages for military families, always looking for ways to encourage those in need.

A woman of deep faith, Karen cherished attending women’s retreats and was an active member of Nashville Baptist Church before later joining South Church in Lansing. Her relationship with God was the foundation of her life and guided her caring spirit.

Karen had a lifelong love of books. She enjoyed not only the stories themselves but also learning about the authors who wrote them, appreciating the people behind each book. She also looked forward to Friday night bowling league with friends and found simple pleasures in life, whether capturing the perfect photograph on her iPad or taking pride in keeping her lawn neatly mowed.

Karen faithfully served the people of Michigan as a data processing clerk for the Bureau of Elections, where she worked for more than 25 years. She was known for her dedication, kind heart, and warm hugs, which brought comfort and joy to those around her.

Karen will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Karen is survived by her father, Jack Willison and stepmother, Linda; sister, Lori (Tim) Gerard; brother, Mike (Judy) Willison; and nieces and nephews Chris (Jenn) Gerard, Kevin (Lydia) Gerard, Josh (MaKala) Gerard, Kari Gerard, Ana Willison, Alex (Hailey) Willison; great niece, Sarah Gerard; and great nephew, Paul Gerard.  She was predeceased by her mother, Shirley.

Friends are encouraged to support Karen’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. Memorial services are Monday, Aug. 10, 2026, at 11a.m. at Pray Funeral Home Gardens in Charlotte with Pastor Deano Lamphere 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 Karen’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Nashville Baptist Church, South Church of Lansing or your charity of choice. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Barbara Lee (Gulch) Gaedert, 77, of Charlotte, passed away on July 19, 2026. She was born on October 23, 1948, in Middleville, Michigan, the daughter of Steven and Beverly (Fillingham-Belliomini) Gulch.

Barbara found joy in life’s simple pleasures. An avid walker, she enjoyed making the journey to work on foot whenever she could. She cherished the natural beauty and peacefulness of Mackinac Island and Traverse City, places that always held a special place in her heart.

A dedicated and dependable employee, Barbara took great pride in every position she held. She worked as a receptionist for several Lansing-area physicians, served as a concierge at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, and later worked as a clerk at Walgreens in Traverse City. Among these roles, her years at the Grand Hotel were especially meaningful, bringing her many treasured memories and lasting friendships.

Above all else, Barbara loved her family. She was incredibly proud of her children and grandchildren, celebrating their accomplishments and cherishing every opportunity to spend time with them. Her love, kindness, and quiet strength will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Barbara is survived by her daughter Brinda (Gary) Ridenour; son, James (Sara) Smith; grandchildren Gary Ridenour, Jr, Che Anthony Woods, C.J. Brown; step-grandchildren Oliva and Nevaeh; 10 great-grandchildren; brothers, Steven (Grace) Gulch and Stanley (Karen) Gulch; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, and daughter, Rebecca Gaedert.

Friends are encouraged to support Barbara’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A Memorial service will be held on Monday, Aug. 3, 2026, at 3 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor John Bailey officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior, from 2 to 3 p.m. The memorial service 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 Barbara’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Harold Edward Porter, beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026, at his daughter’s home in Bellevue, Michigan, at the age of 93. He was born on July 28, 1933, in Carter County, Kentucky, to Drew and Nancy (Blevins) Porter. Harold lived a full and meaningful life marked by dedication to his family, his work, and his country.

Harold proudly served in the United States Army, where he was stationed in Japan and then in Korea from 1953-1955. His time in the service reflected his deep sense of duty and commitment to his nation, values that shaped him throughout his life.

Following his military service, Harold was employed for many years at Fisher Body in Willow Run. He distinguished himself as a talented builder and developer, working alongside his brother, Jessie Porter, to construct many homes throughout the Potterville and Charlotte areas. He was also known for his skill as a brick layer.

Beyond his career, Harold was a man of varied interests and simple joys. He loved golfing and found great peace fishing for rainbow trout in his leisure time. Another one of Harold’s passions was attending and participating in tractor pulls where he won many trophies. Yet, above all, Harold cherished his family. He deeply enjoyed spending time with those he loved and took great pride in their accomplishments and happiness.

Harold is survived by his devoted daughter, Nancy Porter, and his son, Michael (Carmen) Porter. He leaves behind four loving grandchildren: Brandy (Christopher) Hofstra, Shanon Allen, Taylor (Drew) Mason, and McCaryn (fiancée MJ Sasapan) Porter. Harold’s legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Mecquella Bannan, Ian Bannan, Forrest Mason, Knox Mason; and great-great grandchildren, Grayson, and Elena.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Martha in 2010, his brother, Jessie (Phyllis) Porter, and his sister, Betty (Maynard) Croy. Their memories, along with Harold’s, will remain dearly cherished by all who knew them.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at 11 a.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 10 to 11 a.m., just prior to the service. Burial with military honors will take place at Riverside Cemetery in Bellevue. 

Those desiring to make contributions in Harold’s memory may do so by donating to the Herbert Herman Cancer Institute in Lansing, Michigan.

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

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Funeral Services:

Robert James Reynolds, 82, passed away on July 17, 2026. He was born on April 9, 1944, to John Reynolds and Lenora Fitzgerald Reynolds.

Robert proudly served in the Michigan Air National Guard and completed his technical training in Wichita Falls, Texas. Following his military service, he began a career with the Kellogg Company as a computer operator. Through his dedication, strong work ethic, and leadership, he quickly advanced into management, where he spent many years building a respected career.

Above all, Robert was devoted to his family. He shared 60 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Barbara Huntington Reynolds. Together they built a life centered on love, commitment, and family.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Barbara; his children, Robert (Colleen) Reynolds, Chad (Mollie) Reynolds, and Mendy (Rob) Rocco; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; his sister, Sharon Rohde; and his brothers, Dave Reynolds and Jim Reynolds.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Lenora Reynolds, and his brother, John Reynolds Jr.

Robert found great joy in spending time outdoors. He loved golfing, hunting, and fishing, and he especially enjoyed traveling with family and friends. Whether on the golf course, in the woods, on the water, or exploring new places, he appreciated life’s simple pleasures and the memories made with those he loved.

Robert will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his quiet strength, his steady work ethic, and the kindness he showed to others. His legacy lives on through the family he cherished and the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A celebration of Bob’s life will be held on August 8, 2026 at the Bellevue Conservation Club from 1 to 4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to a charity of your choice.

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Funeral Services:

Douglas D. Lowe, age 95, passed away on July 22, 2026. He was born on June 22, 1931, in Vermontville, Michigan, to Calvin and Velda Lowe.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Calvin and Velda Lowe; his brothers, William and Richard Lowe; and his granddaughter, Erika Lowe.

He is survived by his wife, Janis E. Lowe; his children, Cindi (Lowe) Freiberg and her husband, Gary; Kent Lowe and his wife, Allison; and Brent Lowe and his wife, Tammy. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Justin Freiberg, Andrea Freiberg, Alec Lowe, Erin Lowe, Trent Lowe and his wife, Kasia, Kara (Lowe) Peterson  and her husband, Jay, and Katlin Lowe. In addition, he is survived by his great-grandchildren, Oliver, Julian, Ryker, Dax, and Ford.

Doug and Jan enjoyed traveling and visited five continents and 37 countries throughout their lives. They also participated in Rotary-sponsored polio immunization initiatives in India and valued the opportunity to experience different cultures and meet people from around the world.

Doug was one of the original partners in the Lowe Brothers propane gas business and maintained an active real estate broker license for more than 50 years. In 1988, he founded Grand Rental Station and successfully owned and operated the business for 23 years before selling it in 2011 and retiring.

He was a member of the Charlotte Rotary Club for 41 years and was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow for his contributions and service to the community.

Following retirement, Doug and Jan spent time at their cedar log cabin in Escanaba, Michigan.

Doug had a particular interest in fine antique music boxes, and Ford Model A cars and trucks, several of which he restored himself.

Interment will take place at West Carmel Cemetery, in Charlotte, Michigan. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

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Funeral Services:

Willis Lee Whitmyer II passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones, his dogs, and his woods.  He was wrapped up in love, prayer and the good music of Hank, Bon Jovi and his boy, Luke Combs.  Willis was born on November 15, 1970, in South Bend, Indiana to the most amazing parents, Willis and Geri (Hamilton) Whitmyer. Yes, you read that right, he was born on the opening day of deer hunting season in Irish Country.  

Willis spent much of his childhood playing outside with his cousins, competing with his father, doing the moonwalk, watching sports, riding motorcycles, shooting guns and shooting hoops. As a middle schooler, Willis broke his femur playing rocket football.  After months in the hospital, a full-body cast, homeschooling and around-the-clock care from family, he busted out of that cast with a heart of gratitude and determined to get to work. He devoted his time to working hard and playing harder, all while doing his chores in under 15 minutes… which drives his sister, Theresa, crazy to this day.

Willis grew up in Cassopolis where he graduated from Ross Beatty High School with more than a degree as he and Cheryl (McIntyre) gave birth to their daughter, Kayla Lynn. Willis attended Michigan State University and Olivet College where he obtained his bachelor’s degree in a calling that would leave an everlasting mark on thousands. Willis and Cheryl later gave birth to their son, Kraig Lee, one of their greatest blessings. He continued education to earn a master’s degree in educational leadership at Nova Southeastern University, where he claims to never have missed a single point on an assignment (which has not been verified).    

He dedicated his life to making the world around him better. Whether it was in his home as a father and husband, on the court as a coach, in the classroom as a teacher or in the community as a leader and mentor, his impact was not only felt and cherished, but also it spread like wildfire. Through teaching and coaching he reached generations upon generations of people with his messages of unwavering character.  The hunting and fishing class he developed at Eaton Rapids HS sparked a thirst for the outdoors in his students. This was exceptionally special to him as his church was the woods, and his pew was his tree stand. This is where his close relationship with Jesus was built, honored and treasured.

In 2019, he married his new hunting partner, Kim, a woman of unfaltering faith and family. His blessings continued to increase tenfold as his family grew.  Willis committed his life to the ones he loved, and he always showed up for them.  A fierce force of unconditional, selfless love that forever changes those who are blessed to have felt it. He got a kick out of his own jokes, pulled the most clever pranks and brought the fun. Willis was a man of his word, a man who stood up for what was right no matter the cost, an intentional man who took advantage of each teachable moment, a man who changed every room with his humor and magnetic personality, one who never gave up on himself or others, and a man who loved his family more than anything.  

Willis is preceded in death by his loyal companion, Knute Rockne, who has been chewing on tractor seats and hot tub covers awaiting his arrival. He is lovingly remembered by his wife and forever-honey, Kim, whose kind heart and steadfast selfless love brought him great joy; his parents, Geri and Willis, who raised a hard-working, hard-loving, man of integrity; his children, Kayla (Chelsie) and Kraig who are building beautiful lives on the foundation of character he helped to form. The blessings continue to overflow with bonus daughters, Bailey (Carson) and Brooke (Tony), and grandkids, Ryder and Kinsey (Chelsie & Kayla), who brought immeasurable love and laughter to his life.  

Willis is also remembered by his siblings, Theresa (Mike), Adanna, Bryce, special nieces and their families, loving family, friends, colleagues, students, players and the community that he deeply impacted. Undoubtedly, he played like a champion, and his legacy is one of the ages.  

The fifth horseman has arrived and is wrapped up in the arms of Touchdown Jesus. A celebration of a life well-lived will be held in his honor on Wednesday, Aug. 19 at Eaton Rapids High School (800 State Street, Eaton Rapids, Michigan 48827) from 4 to 7:30 p.m. Please join us for an open reception beginning at 4 p.m. A celebration of life honoring Willis Whitmyer II will begin at approximately 5:15 p.m., after which guests are invited to remain for continued fellowship.

All attendees are asked to wear Notre Dame attire, so put on your Irish blue, green or dome gold and GO IRISH!

In lieu of flowers, we kindly ask you to cast a line, walk the woods, and donate to Whit’s Legacy Fund (mail to 130 Hidden Forest Rd., Battle Creek, Michigan 49014; in care of Kayla Whitmyer).

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Funeral Services:

Herbert Merrill Gates, Jr., of Eaton Rapids, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the age of 90.  Herb was born on May 3, 1936, in Eaton Rapids, to Herbert and Roberta (Ellsworth) Gates, Sr.

Herb entered the construction trade early and spent many years as a skilled finish carpenter with Christman and Granger Construction. His craftsmanship, attention to detail, and pride in a job well done were evident in every project he completed. In addition to his career, Herb faithfully served his country for nine years in the Army National Guard, working out of Charlotte and training in Grayling, Michigan.

Herb found great joy in traveling with the love of his life, Karline. Together they explored Michigan, traveled throughout the western United States, and made countless memories along the East Coast. For nearly 20 years, they spent their winters in North Fort Myers, Florida, where they formed lifelong friendships and enjoyed an active retirement together.

A gifted woodworker, Herb loved spending time in his workshop, where he was always building, tinkering, or creating something special for his family. One of his proudest accomplishments was building two family cabins in Grayling. Those cabins became treasured gathering places where generations of family celebrated holidays, shared laughter, and created memories that will last a lifetime.

Herb also enjoyed giving back to his community. He was an active volunteer at the Jean Bradford Kline Senior Center in Eaton Rapids, where he helped with the popular Swiss steak dinners and looked forward to friendly games of euchre. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Elizabeth Williams.

Herb is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Karline (Hausch) Gates; his children, Denise (Jeff) Auvenshine and Dan Gates; his grandchildren, Olivia (Dominic) DaQuano, Emerson (Cassandra) Auvenshine, and Austin (Madison) Auvenshine; his cherished great-grandchildren, Holly and Heidi DaQuano, Channing and Ainsley Auvenshine, Ella Shroyer, and Elliott and Bowdie Auvenshine; his sister, Bernie Lester; his special friend, Lori Darling; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids Chapel. The family received friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to8  p.m., as well as one hour prior to the service at 10 a.m. on Thursday.

For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to Divine Hospice, Mason, Michigan in Herb’s memory. To share memories or leave online condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.