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Kay MacKenzie

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Funeral Services:

Short in stature, but with a personality larger than life, Kay Lorain MacKenzie, 75, of Vermontville, left the pain of her earthly body and entered the arms of her Lord on October 2, 2022. Kay was born on November 11, 1946, in Rosebush, Michigan to Gerald and Gladys (House) Huber, the oldest of six children. The daughter of a preacher, Kay went to many different schools and traveled around Michigan with her family, graduating from Hastings High School in 1964. She met her future husband, Keith MacKenzie, in high school, and they were married exactly one year to the day after graduation. They started their family in 1968, and in 1972 became the 4K’s, Keith, Kay, Kristine, and Kirk. Kay and Keith leave a big hole in the hearts of the family, as they each received cancer diagnosis in the summer of 2021, and Keith died just six months ago in April.
With a great sense of humor and a love for pranks, Kay enjoyed keeping people guessing on what was coming next. Before a trip bear hunting, Kay and her kids painted her husband’s toenails while he was sleeping, and he didn’t know until he took off his boots and socks at bear camp and his brother commented on how pretty his toes were. She knew her son-in-law hated bugs, so she would buy little plastic bugs to put in his gifts, but this was just an example of the very special relationship they enjoyed, poking and prodding each other. He once gave her a toe tag for her birthday, and she thought that was the funniest gift and was so proud that she carried it in her wallet right next to her birth certificate. Kay was a unique and special person who enjoyed finding the humor in everything she did.
A very sentimental person, Kay loved all the gifts she received, and could share a memory about every special thing she had, and there were many that always had to stay on display so she could see them and remember. She also loved buying special gifts for her friends and family, always knowing what each person collected and keeping an eye out for gifts that showed how much she cared. One of her favorite things was going to resale shops and garage sales and finding snowmen, cardinals, anything MSU, Coca Cola memorabilia, and the list goes on and on because she remembered the things that every loved friend and family member collected.
Some of the special accomplishments that Kay was proud of included the many deer, rabbits, turkey, squirrel, and even black bear that she shot. She also enjoyed fishing, camping, and bowling on a women’s league for many years. In her church, she served as treasurer for many years, was a Sunday School teacher (which started when she was still in high school), led children’s church activities, helped organize luncheons at the church, and she received an award for her work with the WCG (Women of the Church of God) statewide newsletter. Kay had a special place in her heart for children, each with their own special nickname, each knowing their importance and how much they were loved by Kay and loved by the Lord.
Kay is survived by her daughter, Kristine (Daniel) Sowles; son, Kirk MacKenzie; grandchildren, Carson (Amanda Webster) Ames, Jennelle Mackenzie Petras, Megan (Sam) Jordan, and Amanda (Mark) Wallis; bonus granddaughter, Macy (Devon) Wood; great-grandchildren, Logan Ames, Mackenzie Petras, and Myah Wallis; bonus great-grandson, Mason (Woody) Wood; brothers, Jay Huber, John Huber, and Rick Churchill; sisters, Loretta (Jim) Holm, Valera (Mike) Lewis, and Lori (Mike) Rogers; brothers and sisters-in-law, Don MacKenzie, Doug (Judy) MacKenzie, Den (Bonnie) MacKenzie, and Denice (Joe) Morgan; and many very loved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Keith MacKenzie in April of 2022; sister, Evelyn Huber; infant brother, Jack Huber, sister-in-law, Marilyn MacKenzie; parents; and step-mother, Marilyn Roach.
Friends and family are invited to celebrate a life well lived by attending visitation and funeral services. Visitation was Thursday, October, 6 from 2-4:00 p.m. and 6-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, MI. Funeral Services were Friday, October 7, at 4:00 p.m. at the South Cochran Church of God in Charlotte with Pastor Michael Rysko officiating. The funeral was webcast on her tribute page at www.PrayFuneral.com, click on Kay’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone), and there will be a link for webcasting on this page. The family suggests memorial contributions to South Cochran Church of God. Everyone is invited to share memories of Kay on her tribute page at www.PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home.

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Alys Eilene Hoover

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Alys Eilene (Wisner) Hoover went to be with the Lord she loved on September 21, 2022, at the age of 95. She was born at home on January 8, 1927, to Joseph Cecil Wisner and Bertha Eva (Gibney) Wisner. The family moved during her childhood to Fremont, Indiana; Montgomery; Michigan, then Eden, Ohio where she graduated from high school. She graduated college from Western Michigan University with an associate degree in business, belonged to Sigma Tau Chi Honorary Business Fraternity and played saxophone in the band. Moving to East Lansing in the 1950’s, she worked for MSU for the State Soil Conservation Committee. She married Clarence R. Hoover in 1956. She was a stay-at-home mom to Debra until she reached high school, volunteering as a Camp Fire Girls leader, Girl Scout leader, and a reading mentor at Northwestern Elementary. She returned to work for the State of Michigan where she worked for the Department of Corrections until her retirement in 1986. A lifelong learner and traveler, she attended 33 Elderhostels and traveled with friends through Europe, Russia, and all 50 US States. She became a Christian clown, belonging to Circus Clown Alley #155 and loved to make children smile, participating in parades, circuses, and the fair. She was an active member of First United Methodist Church in groups, missions, bible studies, and United Methodist Women for 60 years. She volunteered in the community at the hospital gift shop though the Auxiliary, at the Lansing Art Gallery, at blood drives, and delivered Meals on Wheels. She had many creative hobbies and was an avid MSU sports fan. She loved to play cards with friends at the Senior Center. Her example of participation and leadership in her church and community lives on in her family.
Alys was preceded in death by her parents; husband in 1986; sisters, Mary Louise Richards and Jean Todd in 2015; granddaughter, Emily Salisbury; stepson, Rex Hoover of DeWitt. She is survived by her daughter, Debra (Mark) Salisbury of Eaton Rapids; stepdaughter, Carolyn (Billy) Crego; eight grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.
Services will be held at a later time. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. To leave condolences for the family, please visit our website, millsfuneral.com.

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Gary Allen Shelton

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Gary Allen Shelton of Eaton Rapids, MI and formerly of Holopaw, Florida passed away on Monday, September 26, 2022, at the age of 82. Gary was born on October 20, 1939, in Jackson, MI the son of Hugh Shelton and Mildred Hands. He was a graduate of Lansing Everett High School class of 1957. Gary moved to Florida in 1967 where he owned and operated Big G’s 441 A in St. Cloud and Holopaw Restaurant in Holopaw, FL. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed spending his time hunting and fishing. He was a member of the Kissimmee Mounted Police and the Foresters. Gary also enjoyed playing cards, rodeos and racing at the Onondaga Dragway where he won numerous races in his younger years.
He is preceded in death by his father and stepmother, Hugh and Rose Shelton; mother and stepfather, Mildred (Wayne) Lewis; stepson, Terry Quint; and brother, William Shelton.
Surviving are his wife of 35 years, Sharon (Whitham) Shelton; son, Russell (Kim) Shelton; daughter, Kathy Parramore; stepchildren, Gretchen Greer, Troy (Wedon) Quint; grandchildren: Brittney (Gerald) LaTour, Ethan Shelton, Austin Tapp, Trinity Tapp, Sabrina Killmon, Shannon (Bill) Spahn; great grandchildren: Lake, Sutton, Bryston, Josie, Charlie, Emi, Fritz, Baby Killmon; brother, Donald (Margie) Shelton; sisters, Carolyn Brewer, Dorine VanDerhiede, Kathy (Bill) Mathis; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 4, 2022, at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday, October 3, 2022, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. and one hour prior to services on Tuesday. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity in memory of Gary. To share memories or leave condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Michael James Brininstool

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Michael James Brininstool passed away unexpectedly at the age of 53 on Thursday, September 15, 2022. Michael, the son of Teresa and Howard Hector, was born on March 6, 1969. As a natural born welder and fabricator, he successfully ran his own fabricating business for several years. Mike was an outgoing, caring person who loved to make others smile and laugh. He spent his free time attending and watching the Detroit Lions play alongside his brothers and nephews. Fishing and hunting were a strong passion of Mike’s, but nothing compared to his love for his dog, Buddy, with whom he enjoyed long walks and trips to the river. He loved all kids and enjoyed joking and spending time with them. Mike was a first-time grandpa and could be found showing off pictures of his grandson.
Mike is survived by his children, Michael John of Springport and Jenna of Glenside, PA.; grandson, Elliott; parents, Teresa and Howard Hector of Eaton Rapids; brothers: Gary (Chelle) Brininstool of Lennon, Jesse (Heidi) Brininstool of Eaton Rapids, Howard Hector of Eaton Rapids, Chadwick (Melissa) Hector of Eaton Rapids, John Hector of Wellston, Aaron Brininstool of Iowa, Troy (Debbie) Rowlee of Eaton Rapids; sisters, Cheryl Hector of Eaton Rapids and Angela Mills of Mt. Pleasant; several nieces and nephews, and special family friends, the Kikendalls.
Mike was preceeded in death by his brother, James Brininstool.
Memorial Services will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 8th at the Onondaga Sportsmans Club on Gale Road. The family would like to invite anyone who knew Mike to attend and to share memories.

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William George Cataline

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William George Cataline, age 88 of Lebanon, Kentucky, and formerly of Eaton Rapids, MI, passed away on Tuesday, September 20, 2022, at Springfield Nursing and Rehab. Bill was born in Lansing, Michigan on December 2, 1933, and throughout his life, lived in Michigan, Colorado, Arizona, and Kentucky. He was a member of the East Tawas Presbyterian Church. After 30 years with General Motors, he retired in 1994. It was at this time that he and his wife Marilyn started traveling throughout the United States, visiting fifty capitals along the way.
Bill was preceded in death by his mother, Sarah Cataline; father, Leslie Cataline; stepfather, Harry Tracy; and a brother, Ron.
Surviving him are his wife, Marilyn Cataline; three children: Jeffrey, Julie, and Jon; brothers, Jim and Dick; a sister, Sharen; seven of nine grandchildren; thirteen great grandchildren and nieces and nephews.
Bill participated in sports in Eaton Rapids, Michigan and was active in Youth Football Programs in the Lansing, Michigan area. He loved traveling, biking, carpentry and building, and enjoying his grandchildren. He served his country with the U.S. Army.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 15, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. at Skinner Funeral Home, 315 S. River Street, Eaton Rapids, Michigan 48827. Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until the time of services. A luncheon will be held at 3:00 p.m., also at Skinner Funeral Home. Interment will be held at Rosehill Cemetery at a later date. To share memories or leave condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Martha Powelson

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Martha Louise Powelson, the kind of lady that was a friend forever, died September 22, 2022, at the age of 75. Martha was born in Eaton County on July 10, 1947, to George and Louise (Wright) Day. Martha graduated from Charlotte High School in 1965, and soon after went to work for the State of Michigan, where she worked in various departments until her retirement from the Treasury Department 13 years ago. A quiet and shy sort of person, Martha was also very thoughtful and kind, a true friend to those she knew. She enjoyed refinishing furniture in her she-shed, collecting elephants and teacups.
Martha is survived by her husband, Kenneth; grandson, Conner Powelson; sisters, Lorraine (Carl) Burton and Jennifer (Ed) Dunton; brothers, Patrick (Beverly) Day and George (Rose) Day; and many nieces and nephews including her beloved local nephews, Pat Day and Liam Day. She was predeceased by her daughter, Nicole Geahan.
Friends are encouraged to support Martha’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Memorial services were Friday, September 30, 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home with Deacon Tom Fogle officiating. The funeral was webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Martha’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 a charity of your choice. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Victor Braatz

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Victor Steven Braatz, age 68, of Charlotte, passed away on Monday, September 26, 2022. He was born August 20, 1954, in Lansing. Victor grew up in Charlotte and in his youth had a love for playing sports. He graduated from Charlotte High School in 1972. After graduation he served his country in the Marine Corp and upon his honorable discharge, he pursued a career as a carpenter.
Although a carpenter by trade, Victor was always an active member of the community. He was instrumental in the upstart of the Charlotte Community Garden and the Eaton County Recovery Network. He deeply enjoyed spending time with his loved ones, traveling, literature, fishing, cooking, and sports.
Victor is survived by his sons: Jeromi (Ashley) Braatz of Kalamazoo, Jared Braatz of Charlotte, Tyler (Samantha) Braatz of Portage; mother of his children, Micki Smith; grandchildren: Chace, Norah, Aryah, Bailey; siblings: Charles (Janet) Braatz, Sarah Dunn, Judy Ruffner, Tom (Pam) Braatz, Jeff (Mary Grace) Braatz; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Hilda Braatz; sister, Marilyn Braatz; and brother, Curtis Braatz.
In keeping with Victor’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services will be held.
Those desiring may make contributions in Victor’s memory to the Siren/Eaton Shelter, Hospice of Lansing, or your local animal shelter.
To view Victor’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.

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David Huffman

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David Milan Huffman, 75 of Charlotte, a man with boisterous enthusiasm for the little things, entered the Kingdom of God on September 24, 2022. He was born March 10, 1947, in Port Huron, Michigan to Ralph and Barbara (Lawton) Huffman. Dave married Pamela Waterbury 52 years ago, on July 11, 1970, and together they raised their two daughters to love and care for friends and family, but especially with utter devotion to God. Daily prayers always ended with, “Bless this food to our bodies, give us strength and protection, watch over us as we serve you. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.” His family will miss seeing his smile, his patience for good things to come, and his long eloquent stories. Daily devotionals were something Dave not only enjoyed, but also encouraged his family to do with him as well, which is why they have peace knowing he is walking the streets of Gold.
Proud service in the U.S. Air Force was also an important part of Dave’s background, serving during Vietnam as a grounds radio operator. Dave worked for the Department of State Police in accounting, retiring in 2002. After that he worked for the City of Lansing part-time in parking revenue collection, and for Fun Services driving vans and calling BINGO at special events. Activities he enjoyed included bowling, fishing, camping, and being an umpire for adult softball leagues. He was also a member of Delta Township Kiwanis Club, and a faithful member of Eaton Rapids Nazarene Church. Extremely proud of his family, Dave loved to share stories about his daughters, and then later his grandchildren’s activities and accomplishments, and loved being a part of all their activities.
David is survived by his wife of 52 years, Pam; daughters, Tonya (Brad) Duerr and Teresa (Ken) Jones; grandchildren, Bradlee, Meagan (Michael), Matthiew (Erin), Kaedance, Symphony, Bryce, and Kenzie; one great-grandson on the way; and his sister, Donna Huffman. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Richard (Sally) Huffman; two nephews, and his grandparents.
Friends are encouraged to support Dave’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Friday, October 14, 3-5:00 p.m. and 6-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services are Saturday, October 15, 3:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. 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 Dave’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 Gideons International. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Millard Von Root

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Millard Von Root, a man who knew his Bible inside and out and shared his love for his Lord with many, went to meet his Lord and Savior on September 27, 2022. Millard was born February 11, 1932, in Chester Township, Michigan to William and Iva Boyer (Root), the youngest of 11 children in the family. With a kind heart and a powerful voice, Millard often said, “Let me tell you a little story.” In his early years he was a pitcher for the American Legion baseball club, but he hung up his mitt for a Bible and lived to preach and share the Word with others. His favorite verse leading him in all he did, 1 Peter 2:5, “you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” Millard worked for 30 years at General Motors, was a union representative and also farmed 210 acres. With over 67 years as a minister, Millard helped start eight congregations, preached at 88 different churches and he memorized most of the Bible.
Family meant everything to Millard. His children say he was the best dad anyone could ask for. In 1952 he married Phyllis Griffin and together they had six children and a house filled with love. There were always family adventures and special times at their cottages in Michigan and at their winter home in Florida. Fishing, hunting, learning about everything history, reading to expand his knowledge, and traveling around the country to share the gospel were things that Millard enjoyed.
Millard is survived by his wife of 70 years, Phyllis; his children, Duonna (Tom) Worstell, Kevin (Teresa) Root, Tim (Doreen) Root, Sheila (Bob) Veitch, and Curt (Connie) Root, daughter-in-law, Jodi Root; 21 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son, Mark Root; his parents; and ten siblings.
Friends are encouraged to support Millard’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Monday, October 3, 1-3:00 p.m. with funeral services following at 3:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Steve Doty 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 Millard’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Kevin Edington

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Kevin J. Edington, age 64, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 19, 2022. He was born June 27, 1958, in Lansing the son of Max and Thelma (Bailey) Edington. On February 12, 1999, he married Donna V. Oakley. Kevin enjoyed watching NASCAR, scratching off lottery game tickets, visiting various casinos and collecting coins. He loved fishing on Duck Lake, thanks to his friend Glenn.
Kevin is survived by his children: Melissa (Jim) Falk of Onondaga, James (Kathy) Robins of Charlotte, Matthew (Tasia) Robins of Charlotte, Amanda (Robert) Pierce of Bellevue; 12 grandchildren; sister-in-law Rosemary Newell of Kentwood; brothers: David (Pat) Edington of Tennessee, Earl Edington of Jackson; and special friends: Glenn, Steve, and Roger.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Donna; sister, Julie Ann Johnson.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, October 2, 2022, at 2 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with the Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday. Burial will take place at Kalamo Hillside Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contributions in Kevin’s memory to Eaton Community Palliative Care, 2675 S. Cochran Rd., Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Kevin’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.

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