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Funeral Services:

A too-short life filled with music and a fierce love for her children came to an end June 4, 2022, when Betsy (Elizabeth) Ann Parish was taken from this earth after a sudden and swift illness.
Born October 25, 1958, Betsy found joy in the small things – a good book, a rocking vinyl, time spent at the sewing machine, creating music and a good cup of coffee.
She was quick to voice her opinions but quicker to help anyone who asked.
Through her we know what perseverance and resilience look like. She had an all-encompassing love for her children and grandchildren. Cross one of hers and you crossed her – an act not to be taken lightly.
A lover of music, Betsy just celebrated 50 years of playing her beloved Armstrong flute. She lent her talents to more than 100 area musical theater productions. The pits will be a bit emptier without her amazing musicality and sarcasm.
Betsy always had a creative project or two under way. Her crocheted hats could cover every head in the Valley and still have several to spare. Her sewing machine(s) were constantly abuzz with a task – usually hemming the pants of her youngest daughter.
Her favorite pastime, however, was supporting and cheering on her children and grandchildren in all of their endeavors. She rarely missed a school or extracurricular activity, big or small and her unwavering support will be greatly missed.
She was preceded in death by parents Lafayette and Sylvia Williams. She is survived by brother Paul (Debbie) Williams, sister Jane Owen, daughters Sara (Ed) Sheldon and Amy Jo (Judd) Brown, grandchildren Elizabeth, Benjamin and Sylvia, nieces, nephews and a legacy of honest, authentic living.
A service will be held on Saturday, June 11 at 11a.m. with a luncheon to follow at Chester Gospel Church 3744 West Vermontville Hwy., Vermontville.
In lieu of flowers, please consider giving to a starving musician you know so the music can continue.
Whenever she found a saying or recipe worth saving she wrote it down on whatever was close – a paper plate, an old receipt, anything that would hold ink. Among these pages are scraps of wisdom she found significant that we now pass on to you. “When you stumble – make it part of the dance.” “When you can’t get it right – go left.”
Funeral Arrangements entrusted to Daniels Funeral Home, Nashville, MI.  For more information please visit our website www.danielsfuneralhome.net.

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Esthony Marie Cochran, a motivational and supportive, mother, grandmother, and daughter, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 6, 2022. Esthony 39, was born February 2, 1983, the daughter of Anthony Cochran and Esther Lord. Her children and grandchildren were her world. Esthony did what she could to make sure that everyone was happy, even though inside she struggled to be happy herself. Many will remember Esthony for being caring and loving to everyone, and her good laugh. She also enjoyed listening to music, writing, and reading her bible. Above all Esthony will be missed by many for her loving spirit.
Esthony is survived by her parents Anthony (Misti) Cochran, Esther (Tim) Lord; children, Harmony Barron, Angeleena Barron, Matthew Barron Jr.; grandchildren, Milo, Javon, Skyla; siblings, Rie (Josh) Dawson, Vinny Cochran; grandmothers, Davine Cochran, Emelia Latorre; many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. She was predeceased by her grandfathers, Roy Cochran and Fred Latorre.
Friends are encouraged to support Esthony’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Monday, June 13, 2022, from 6-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. Funeral services are Tuesday, June 14, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop 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 Esthony’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Mid-Michigan Recovery Services. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Lana Jane Patrick, age 81 of Charlotte, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 3, 2022. She was born May 28, 1941, in Perry County, Kentucky, the daughter of Oliver and Katherine (Caldwell) Patrick. Lana was a kind and loving lady. She enjoyed the simple things in life and her family was very important to her. Lana was a talented painter who created many beautiful keepsakes. She also enjoyed watching many TV programs, listening to country music, watching old movies, and playing BINGO. Lana was also very fond of her dog, Sparky.
Lana is survived by her brother, David “Tony” (Carol) Patrick, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Eugene Wendell Patrick, Joyce Patrick Perkins, and James Monroe Patrick.
Funeral services were held on Monday, June 6, 2022, at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. Burial followed at Maple Hill Cemetery.
Those desiring, may make contributions in Lana’s memory to the Shriners Hospitals for Children.
To view Lana’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com

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Steven “Steve” Leo Eaton, a simple man who was kind and loving, died on Sunday, June 5, 2022, in the comfort of his home. Steve was born March 28, 1949, in Hastings, MI, the son of Earl “Spike” and Alice (Rose) Eaton. Growing up Steve was one of 16 children, so from an early age family was all he knew. Coming from a strong military family background, Steve proudly served his country following being drafted into the Vietnam War. Upon returning from the war, he began working as a line worker and later as a Team Coordinator for General Motors. He retired from GM following 30 years. Family was the world to Steve, from family dinners, card nights, mushroom hunting trips, and spending time with his grandchildren, Steve was happiest when being surrounded by those he loved. He also enjoyed fishing for Bullheads and other species. Steve was quite the cook; he passed his knowledge of cooking down to his children and later his grandchildren. He was an avid football fan, and wouldn’t miss a Michigan State or Lions game. Above all his biggest passion in life was his family, especially his grandchildren.
Steve is survived by his children, Renae (Scott Haeck) Eaton Lewison, Steven E. (Tammy) Eaton, Shawn Eaton; grandchildren, Kristyna (Morton) Sager, Erin Lewison, Jake Lewison, Collen Leo Eaton, Wyatt James Eaton, Tyler Steven Eaton; siblings, Eva, Alice, Dora, Arnold, Jim, Sally, Patty; many cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He was predeceased by his parents; siblings, Josephine, Earl, Judy, Keith, Harley, Ike, Jean, Billy.
Friends are encouraged to support Steve’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. The family is planning a Celebration of Life for Steve for a later date. The details on that service will be published once they are finalized. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Gloria Jean Abbott of Eaton Rapids, MI passed away on June 5, 2022, at the age of 85. Gloria was born on May 25, 1937, to Fred and Ethel (Graham) Tripp. At the age of 16, Gloria met her soon to be husband, Donald Fred Abbot while going to look at a horse. They were married two years later on July 9, 1955. Her daughter Susan was born in 1956 and son, Donald followed in 1960. Gloria loved to recall the story of selling Fred’s horse to pay for her engagement ring, and how they almost broke up over his goat eating her flowers. Gloria and Fred shared a love for animals and spent 57 years together raising horses and dogs. They had a variety of unusual animals over the years, including, skunks, alligators, chinchillas, hedgehogs, and a variety of birds. She also loved animal sales and shows and spent most weeks attending one or the other. Gloria was never without a dog, her favorite being chihuahuas.
Gloria is preceded in death by her parents, husband, two half-brothers, Ivan and Fred Tripp and an adopted brother, Sonny Graham.
Surviving are her children, Susan (Eric) Eaton, Donald Abbott; grandchildren, Justin (Miranda) Eaton, Leora (Chris) Lea, Cynthia (Bryan) Beck, Donald (Naomi) Abbott; great grandchildren, Tristian, Jeffrey, Christopher, Kaedon, Kollin, Madelynn, Courtlynn, Brooklyn, Saiya, Eli, Reece, and Ryenn, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, June 10, 2022, at Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids Chapel. The family will received friends starting at 1:00 p.m. To share memories or leave condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com

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Thomas Carl Kunkel of Eaton Rapids, MI passed away on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, at the age of 69. Tom was born on May 4, 1953, in Eaton Rapids, MI the fourth of six children born to Emanuel Vasquez and Eleanor Kunkel. He was raised by his grandparents, Fred and Laura Kunkel on the Kunkel Onion Farms in Eaton Rapids. Tom graduated from Eaton Rapids High School class of 1971. He started his professional career as a drywaller, operating Kunkel Drywall and eventually moved to General Motors where he worked as a lineman and team coordinator and retired in 2009. Tom was a proud member of the UAW; a sports enthusiastic and avid fan of the Michigan State Spartans and his hometown Detroit teams. He had an almost unhealthy passion for the game of golf and rarely missed his Friday afternoon round with his brother. Tom also enjoyed horse racing and was passionate about music especially classic rock. He was above all a devoted husband, father and loyal friend whose memory will be cherished by those who loved him.
He is preceded in death by his wife of 39 years, Valerie (Belfiori) Kunkel and his parents.
Tom is survived by his children, Ian Kunkel, Helen Kunkel; brothers, Ernie (Julie) Kunkel, Rick (Darlene) Kunkel; sisters, Lori Kunkel-Fischer, Ruby (Michael) Wendling, Margaret (Thomas) Lovell; aunt, June Kunkel and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held on Wednesday, June 8, 2022, at Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids Chapel. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Habitat for Humanity in memory of Tom. To share memories or leave condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com

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Bernard Dale Parisian of Eaton Rapids passed away peacefully at his home on May 31, 2022. He was born August 15, 1932, to Dorothy Parisian and Harry Rivers.
Ben received his Draft Notice right out of High School and chose to serve in the Navy and was stationed on the USS Midway and the USS Lahti. After his service in the Navy, Ben married his High School sweetheart, Phyllis Helene Rice. Ben was working in Lansing for the family-owned Trio Restaurant, he left the Trio and moved his family to Eaton Rapids in 1966. Ben established Ben’s Electric in 1970. Ben’s son, Gregg Parisian bought the business in 2007. At this point Ben retired, but never stopped working. He was a hard worker and enjoyed being outside gardening, mowing, working on projects. He enjoyed watching the Detroit Tigers play ball and listening to Car Talk Radio on Saturdays. Ben was an avid sportsman and enjoyed fishing and upland bird hunting with his English Setters. Ben was very involved with his family and riding horses with the Capi Delta Riding Club, 4-h with his children at Eaton County Fair and the Michigan Appaloosa Horse Association. For those who knew Ben, knew he loved to talk about his work, his family and would always have stories from the past to the present. Ben had a strong faith in God and was involved in Calvary Lutheran Church in many capacities over the years.
Surviving are his three children, Gregory (Brenda) Parisian, Gwenn (John) Waldron and Bethany (Steve) Smith. Five grandchildren Jesse (Tara) Parisian, Sarah (Jake) Strank, Chelsea (Steven) Wright, Whitney (Michael) Spalding and Katrina (Austin) Smith, Ten great-grandchildren Benjamin and Kennon Parisian, Cole and Evelyn Strank, Cassidy and Teagan Wright, McKenzie and Avery Spalding and Jensen and Quinn Smith. And his beloved Cocker Spaniel, TJ, his loyal buddy, companion and friend.
A memorial service was held June 9, 2022, at Calvary Lutheran Church in Eaton Rapids. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Calvary Lutheran Church in Ben’s name.
Memories and condolences please visit www.Skinnerfuneralhomes.com

Virginia J. Lowe

Celebrating 100 Years
Since June 12, 2022

Happy Birthday to an amazing woman

On June 12th, Virginia will be celebrating 100 years. As a lifelong resident of Eaton County, she enjoys being active in the Potterville and Charlotte communities, supporting local businesses and families. Please join her sons, David and Dick, in honoring her by sending your wishes to P.O. Box 519, Charlotte, MI 48813
Happy 100th Birthday, Mom – Enjoy!

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Funeral Services:

Bonnie Jeannette Gingrich LeDoux Simek went to be with our Lord on Tuesday, May 24, 2022. Bonnie, 94, of Charlotte, was born October 17, 1927, at home in Chester Township. Bonnie was the daughter of Lee and Marie (Bottomley) Gingrich.
Growing up Bonnie enjoyed the farm life. She told stories of hand milking cows, helping her dad plow the fields with a team of horses, and riding in a sleigh her grandfather had bought, covered in a Buffalo rug.
Bonnie married Alfred LeDoux on November 1, 1947. Al and Bonnie met at the Charlotte County Fair. Al was enlisted in the Army Air Corp and was in town recruiting people to join the war effort. The recruiting trailers were set up at the County Fair in Charlotte. Al saw Bonnie…Bonnie saw Al, and two days later he asked her to marry him. She said “Yes!” and they were married 47 years and moved over 60 times, including three years in France. Bonnie faced each move with excitement over the new adventure. Al and Bonnie finally settled in Mt. Juliet, Tennessee. After Al passed in 1995 Bonnie was widowed for three years.
And now, the rest of the story. Bonnie attended her 54th High School Reunion in Charlotte where she bumped in to her old boyfriend, Edward Simek. Ed had been widowed for several years and just like in a storybook, they fell in love and got married. Bonnie moved back to Charlotte where she was able to reunite with family members and friends. Bonnie, basically, went around the world and back again to her hometown and not far from the home in which she was born. Her life would make an incredible movie.
Bonnie was a devoted wife and loving mother. Raising Chris, Mike and Jeanne while making many moves and “holding down the fort” when Al had to be away. She was an amazing story teller and loved to share the family history with her daughter, Jeanne. She had a contagious laugh and beautiful smile. Bonnie was always there to encourage her children, family and friends to “live their dreams.” To say that this amazing woman will be missed is an understatement. We have lost another member of “The Greatest Generation” and Heaven has welcomed another Angel.
Bonnie is survived by her son, Mike LeDoux and daughter-in-law Jodi; daughter, Jeanne LeDoux Hickman and son-in-law Ty; daughter-in-law Peggy LeDoux; twelve grandchildren, and an abundance of great grandchildren; her sister, Ellen Dunn; many nieces, nephews and dear friends.
There will be no service at this time as a Celebration of Life and Family Reunion is being planned for a later date.

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Funeral Services:

Patricia Ann Spagnuolo, 89, of Charlotte, died peacefully on Saturday, May 28, 2022. Pat was born at home in Mulliken, MI, on December 27, 1932, the youngest of nine children of Frederick William and Lillian Jeanette (Wagner) Priesman. As a young girl, Pat loved to roller skate and ice skate, as well as play baseball at Charlotte High School. Following graduation in 1951, she attended Western Union Trade School, and soon after married her life-long love, Sam Spagnuolo. Pat and Sam worked side by side for over 60 years at their store in Charlotte, Bruno’s. Early on, she also worked evenings serving chicken dinners at the Dew Drop Inn in Charlotte. At home, she loved gardening, preparing Sunday spaghetti dinners for the family, and her beloved pets. She was a devoted member of the Nazarene Church in Charlotte. Above all, Pat loved her family.
Pat is survived by her children, Theresa O’Dell, James Spagnuolo, Mary Stout and Christopher Spagnuolo; grandchildren, Travis (Jessica) Malcuit, Lucas (Tara) Malcuit, Elizabeth Stout, Mellissa Stout, Emily (Devon) Shepherd, and Genevieve Spagnuolo; great-granddaughters, Lydia and Adeline Malcuit; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Sam in 2015; sons-in-laws, Monte O’Dell and Lee Stout; her parents; and her eight siblings, Murel Mann, Ruth Earl, Neil Priesman, John Priesman, Ward Priesman, Warren Priesman, Betty Smith, and Richard Priesman.
Friends are encouraged to support Pat’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was on Wednesday, June 1, 2022, at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, followed by a procession to Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte for a graveside service with Pastor Tom Surdenik officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the New Faith Church of the Nazarene in Charlotte or the Eaton County Humane Society. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.