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Roy Steven Willoughby

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Funeral Services:

Roy Steven Willoughby, known as Steve, “Groundhog,” or “Big Willy,” was born February 2, 1948 in Charlotte, MI. He passed away unexpectedly at his home (where he felt most at peace) on October 20, 2023 in Battle Creek, MI. Steve grew up in the Olivet/Charlotte area for the majority of his life before ending up in Battle Creek. He also spent time in Indiana, Missouri, and Florida.

If you knew Steve for long, more than likely you knew two sides of him! There was the ride or die guy who would do anything for you. Then the short tempered, angry guy who wasn’t afraid to show this no matter who the heck you were!

Steve volunteered for the draft at 17, and eventually served with the U.S. Army Combat Engineers. He was initially deployed to Germany, but ultimately volunteered to go to Vietnam. After coming home, Steve spent most of his life keeping his two sides separated, not knowing how to control one or the other for a happy medium. It was an endless struggle to get back to the person he used to be.

Although he served his country with honor, pride, and devotion, he came back a different man, and struggled with the reality of this for the rest of his living days. One of the very first jobs Steve had was working at Moore’s Glass/Gas Station in Charlotte, MI. After the war, Steve became a drive attendant for Ambulance Service Comp. until triggers from PTSD started to make this job, relationships, and daily life very difficult to cope with. From plumbing and various cable jobs, to driving semis, Steve tried his best to be a contributing person in society. While wanting to pursue higher jobs at officer/leader levels, the PTSD that plagued him would never allow this to happen for Steve. However, he did go back and get his GED as an adult and was very proud of this accomplishment, as was his family.

If you knew Steve, you knew he would never pass down a good time or the chance to be wild and crazy! You knew he was most in his element when he was strumming an air guitar with a pool stick to the sound of his favorite tune… Steve loved the sound of a good tune. Or better yet, the sound of a good tune turned up loudly!! Some of the things he loved were playing pool, entering his cars into car shows, grilling at his house while his favorite flags flew above, and music blasted from his radio. Steve especially enjoyed the freedom he fought for on an open road in his 1971 El Camino SS or one of the many Harleys he had throughout his life. When he was able to do that, he was living his best life!

Steve would go on to become proud of his sobriety. An “Occasional” drinker after the war is something his family thought they’d never see. Him being able to fight this urge is something they were all very proud of. It was a choice he made but didn’t have to. Doing that and being able to say Adios to cigarettes were some of his great accomplishments! To love Steve was to also know what came along with that, and at times that wasn’t easy. Love him or not, he left a lasting impression on many! He was who he was, take it or leave it! He didn’t care what you thought of him or his biker looking persona! He was a proud member of The Rolling Thunder non-profit P.O.W./M.I.A. Awareness Group, an advocacy group that seeks to bring full accountability for prisoners of war. He wore these badges and others with honor on a black leather vest he had. Rarely would he ride on a bike without it!

He was proud that he served his country.
Proud to be an American.
Proud of his children.
Proud to have lived his life on his own terms and therefore no one else’s!
It may have been a life that only he understood and knew, but it was a life “lived.”
A true testament to his bravery, and a sacrifice he made each and every day.
His mind is now at peace…
He is whole again.

Steve is preceded in death by his mother, Peggy Modena Bruce; father, Thomas Bruce Jr.; and brother, Gary Willoughby. He is survived by his daughters, Starla and Katrina Willoughby; grandchildren, Ashley VanSplintern, Kaylyn (Nicholas) Jewell, and Mackenzie Griffith; great-grandchildren, Paris, Niko, Natalie, Sophia, Novi, and Jaxtyn; brother, John (Toni) Willoughby; sister-in-law, Sherry Willoughby; former son-in-law, Chad VanSplintern; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Per Steve’s requests there will be no formal funeral. The family will be joining him at his final resting place with a military send off at a later date and time. In honor of Steve or in lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to any local non-profit organization of your choosing that specializes in PTSD for military veterans, or Oaklawn Hospice in Marshall, MI. Arrangements entrusted to Vickers Springport Funeral Home, 121 Pearl St./P.O. Box 235. Springport, Michigan 49284. 517-857-4848.

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Glen Arthur Byron

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Funeral Services:

Glen Arthur Byron, born in Lansing, Michigan on June 11, 1965 and currently from Eaton Rapids, Michigan, passed away in Detroit, Michigan on November 3, 2023.

Glen was a beloved individual who will be deeply missed by his friends and family. Glen had a passion for playing cards and dice and spending time with loved ones. His memory will live on in hearts of those who loved him.

He is survived by his sister, Sherry Byron; sons, Steven Byron and Brandon Byron; daughters, Jacqueline (David) Lovely, Alice (Stephan) Hensley and Autumn Jennings. He leaves behind six granddaughters, two grandsons and many nieces and nephews.

Glen was preceded in death by his parents, Verna (Philo) Byron and Clifford Byron; brother, Mark Byron and sister, Tammy Byron.

A celebration of Glen’s life will be held at 1 p.m. on Sunday, November 12 at the Conservation Hall at 4483 Freeman Road, Eaton Rapids, Michigan.

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Delores Louise Cassidy

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Funeral Services:

Delores Louise Cassidy (Dee) of Eaton Rapids, passed away October 19, 2023, at the age of 78. Dee was born on January 13, 1945, to Elida (Letts) Cassidy of Eaton Rapids and Edgar B. Cassidy of Cleveland, Ohio. She is preceded in death by her mother, Elida in 1998 and her father, Edgar, who lost his life in World War II in 1945. Dee is also preceded in death by special cousins, Mary Lou Letts Foess and Marietta Harris Schafer. She is survived by her foster son, Scott Newsome of Eaton Rapids, and many very special cousins. Although Dee was an only child she did not lack for family.

Dee completed her bachelor’s at Michigan State University, graduating Suma Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kapa. She completed both of her master’s degrees at MSU as well. Dee taught English, Writing and Journalism for many years in Eaton Rapids, where she was known affectionately as “teacher lady.” She had been a member of the First United Methodist Church of Eaton Rapids for many years and was a member of the Capital Area Brain Injury Association, where she had many wonderful friends.

Visitation was held at Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids on Monday, October 23. The funeral service was held at First United Methodist Church of Eaton Rapids, on Tuesday, October 24. Interment followed at Rosehill Cemetery in Eaton Rapids. In Lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the Capital Area Brain Injury Association, 901 Mt. Hope, Lansing, MI 48910 in Dee’s memory. To leave condolences for the family visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.

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Anita Jane Warner

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Funeral Services:

Anita Jane Warner of Eaton Rapids, passed away October 28, 2023, at the age of 75. Anita was born in Springport, Michigan on December 15, 1947, the daughter of Max and Viola (Wolf) LeFevre. She enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with her husband.

Anita is survived by her loving husband of 23 years, Robert “Bob” Warner of Eaton Rapids; children, Keith Rockafellow II of Eaton Rapids, Darren (Michelle) Warner of Eaton Rapids; four sisters; and numerous grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her daughter, Cheryl Rockafellow; parents, Max and Viola, as well as, several aunts and uncles.

Cremation has taken place and there will be no services. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel of Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Elara Caring Hospice Foundation, PO Box 58, Jackson, MI 49204 in loving memory of Anita Jane Warner. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.

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Arlene Marie Sargent

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Funeral Services:

Arlene Marie Sargent, 81, of Vermontville passed away on October 30, 2023. A service was held on Friday, November 3, 2023, 2:30 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. Arrangements by Pray Funeral Home, Inc.

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John A. Halsey

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Funeral Services:

John A. Halsey, 89, of Yorkville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2023. He was born in Olivet, Michigan in 1934 to Victor and Dorothy (Southworth) Halsey.

John attended Olivet High School before studying Agriculture at Michigan University, Judson University for Divinity and Wayne State for master’s in social work.

John was preceded in death by Victor and Dorothy Halsey (parents) and Thain Scheid (grandson).

John is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Barbara Schroeder-Halsey; his brother, Ron Halsey; his sister, Nancy Crane; his children, Nicki Maillet (Gary), Mark Halsey (Nancy Jones), Phil Elam (Joe Ruffle) and Cynthia Geoghegan (Paul); and his stepson, David Schroeder (Jennifer). He is also survived by his nine grandchildren: Lars Scheid (Amity), Brittany Scheid, Kirsten Elam (Zack Newton), Kaela Bartlett (Josiah), Kara Prachar, Riley Geoghegan, James Schroeder (Alyssa Caliendo), Clara Schroeder, Mike Smith (Laura); 13 great-grandchildren: Nicholas Mower, Eli Mower, Josiah Mower (Bailey), Tahlia Dishmon (Mike), Jayson Scheid, Kasandra Scheid, Dracen Scheid, Audrey Sowa, McKenna Newton, Ada Bartlett, Isla Bartlett, Amos Bartlett and Alan Smith, as well as two great great-grandchildren, Avalynn Mower and Elliot Mower.

He loved God, his family, and his birds. He lived a long and full life. Enjoyed tinkering with everything and couldn’t find anything he couldn’t fix.

For further information please call The Healy Chapel, Aurora, IL at 630-897-9291 or visit healychapel.com to leave an online condolence.

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James Willis Drown

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Funeral Services:

James Willis Drown, 88, of Potterville, MI passed away peacefully at home on October 29, 2023. He was born on June 27, 1936, son of Herba and Nellie (Smith) Drown. Jim graduated from Engadine High School and then went on to proudly serve his country for the United States Army Airborne Division. He retired from L.E. Myers Co. as a Heavy Equipment Operator after 25 years. Jim also volunteered at Hayes Green Beach for 29 years. He loved sports, especially baseball, following and watching high school sporting events.

James is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Carolyn Drown; son, Jeffrey Drown; granddaughter, Natalie Drown; sisters-in-law, Sharon (Richard) Catey, Kristine Hernden, Constance Teddy, and Barbara (Roger) Wickerham, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Robert (Eleanor) Drown; and sister, Doris (Robert) Laban.

A Funeral Service with Military Honors was held Thursday, November 2, 2023, at Immanuel Lutheran Church of Grand Ledge, 517 S Clinton St, Grand Ledge, MI 48837. Visitation took place Wednesday, November 1, 2023 at the Mills Funeral Home, Peters & Murray Chapel, Grand Ledge. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in loving memory of James Drown to the Immanuel Lutheran Church. The family has entrusted their care to Mills Funeral Home, Peters & Murray Chapel, Grand Ledge. For online condolences please visit www.millsfuneral.com.

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Bruce James Maltby

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Funeral Services:

Bruce James Maltby, a man whose biggest enjoyment in his life was his family, died peacefully on October 28, 2023, at his home after a short illness. Bruce, 80, of Charlotte, MI., was born March 15, 1943, in Lansing, the son of Grover James and Beverly June (Woodman) Maltby. At a young age, Bruce enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, serving four years. He remained a proud Marine throughout his lifetime. Upon his honorable discharge, he worked briefly in California before returning home to the promise of a career at General Motors in Lansing. During his childhood, he competed as an amateur boxer, a passion he passed on to his son. The two enjoyed watching fights together. Sporting events were an interest he also shared with his grandchildren, attending their many games and meets throughout the years. Bruce was also a big fan of University of Michigan football as well as NASCAR. He loved following local races, especially cheering on his family members who competed. Above all, Bruce loved his family.

Bruce is survived by his daughter, Candace Rosebrugh; son, James (Kelly) Maltby; grandchildren, Kylie (fiancé Jonny Fullerton) Rosebrugh, Chase (Liv Hodgins) Rosebrugh, and Paige Maltby; great-grandchildren, Bryson, Haven, and Oaklyn; seven siblings; and several nieces, nephews and extended family. He was predeceased by his parents, a half-sister, and his former in-laws.

Friends are encouraged to support Bruce’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was on Thursday, November 2, 2023, at Pray Funeral Home. Funeral Services was held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 3, 2023, at Pray Funeral Home with Pastor Chuck Jenson officiating. Interment will take place in Bosworth Cemetery, Olivet. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Myrna Jean DeDolph

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Funeral Services:

Myrna Jean DeDolph, a woman that will be remembered for her beautiful smile and her recognizable laugh, died on Friday, October 27, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. Myrna, 78, of Charlotte was born on December 26, 1944, in Dansville, MI the daughter of Donald and Edith (Nelson) Maynard. She was one of 15 children. At the age of 28 she married Richter “Rick” DeDolph and together they started their legacy. After having children Myrna worked as a Homemaker for the family. Once the children got older, she began working for Sparrow Hospital as a Shuttle Driver. Most recently she and Rick were owners of the Eaton Theatre in Charlotte, working alongside each other for 27 years. Myrna was a proud and devoted member of the Charlotte Moose #2565. She enjoyed her sports; Myrna participated in several different leagues from golf, bowling, and softball. She was an avid fan of MSU, Tigers, Lions, and the Red Wings. Many would say that Myrna was a fierce competitor, who also enjoyed a game of cards. Above all her biggest passion in life was spending time with her family and friends.

Myrna is survived by her husband, Rick; children, Mike (Mary) Long, Sue (John) McNeel, and Dale (Brenna) DeDolph; grandchildren, Zack and Ben Long, Max and Fred McNeel, Hannah and Delilah DeDolph; nine siblings; and numerous extended family members. She was predeceased by her parents; and five siblings.

Friends are encouraged to support Myrna’s family sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Monday, October 30, 2023, at Pray Funeral Home. A Funeral was held on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, at Pray Funeral Home with Pastor Dutch Docktor officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Moose Heart. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Kevin Wayne Heisler

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Funeral Services:

Kevin Wayne Heisler, 52, of Bellevue, Michigan passed away on Thursday, October 12, 2023, at home surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on June 22, 1971, to Larry and Sherry (Whitney) Smith in Battle Creek, Michigan.

Kevin was a graduate of Bellevue High School. He was a longtime meat cutter and deer processor in the Bellevue area. Kevin’s favorite place to be, was outdoors, especially hunting and he also enjoyed watching television.

Kevin is survived by his parents, Larry (Eleanor) Heisler of Nashville, Michigan and Sherry Smith of Bellevue, Michigan; his daughter, Mackenzie Heisler of Grand Ledge, Michigan; his brothers, Daniel Smith of Bellevue, Michigan and Jordan Smith of Battle Creek, Michigan; his sister, Lori (Jake) Herr of Nashville, Michigan and his stepsister, Barb (Dave) Hyatt of E. Leroy, Michigan, He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his stepsister, Terri Conroy and grandparents Kenneth and Marian Heisler.
Cremation has taken place, and a graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, November 9, 2023 at Hillside Cemetery in Kalamo, Michigan.

Memorials are suggested to the family.

Arrangements were entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 205 N. Elizabeth St. Bellevue, Michigan 49021. Please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guest book or to leave the family condolences.

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