Obituaries
Marilyn E. Perry
Marilyn E. Perry, age 87, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 10, 2025, at Eaton Community Palliative Care. She was born November 6, 1938, at home in Carmel Township, the daughter of Walter and Magdalena (Marish) Davidson. Marilyn graduated from Charlotte High School with the class of 1957. On December 5, 1959, she married Rowland K. Perry. Family was very important to Marilyn and she cherished her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Marilyn was a voracious reader and supporter of the Charlotte Community Library. She enjoyed her regular trips to the casino and her many friend groups with which she shared innumerable great times.
Marilyn is survived by her daughters, Vickie (Jim Mikesell) Perry of Charlotte, Amee (Darrin) King of Grand Ledge; grandchildren, Tyler (Kate) Cwiek, Jessica (Collin) Hutcheson, Kyle (Ellyn) King, Evan (Haley) King; great-grandchildren, Nevaeh, Jayden, Mason, Peyton, Ariana, Rowland, Riggins, Juniper, Marshall; and numerous special friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Rowland in 2010, and her siblings.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 11 A.M. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. The family will receive friends Thursday from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. at the funeral home. Interment will take place at West Carmel Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contributions in Marilyn’s memory to the Charlotte Community Library, 226 S. Bostwick St., Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Marilyn’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.
Bernard Louis Siniarski
Bernard “Ben” Louis Siniarski, 86, of Charlotte, formerly of Laingsburg, died peacefully with his family by his side on Monday, November 10, 2025. Ben was born February 5, 1939, in Detroit, the son of Sigmund and Mary (Borkowski) Siniarski. He graduated high school in 1957 before enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps. Upon his return from the service, he earned his bachelor’s degree from Lawrence Tech in Southfield, MI. Ben worked over 30 years in telephone communications, starting with Michigan Bell, later Ameritech and finally AT&T.
Ben loved model trains of all sizes and shapes. He enjoyed attending model train shows on a regular basis and could often be found reworking his train room. Ben was also a longtime member of the Laingsburg Lion’s Club, and enjoyed time spent with his family. In his early years, he and his daughter, Lisa, enjoyed time spent snow-skiing together. He was also a talented stained-glass artist, creating many beautiful pieces throughout his life. Above all, family was Ben’s life focus.
Ben is survived by his wife of 37 years, Kay Ellen Siniarski; their children, Kimberly (Darryl) Brija, James (Rhonda) Bartlett, Debbie (Bob Danhof) Bartlett, and Lisa (Justin) Pyle; 4 grandchildren, Nicklas Pyle, Nathan Pyle, Noah Pyle, and Jaine Burke; 3 great-grandchildren, Matthew Burke, Dylan Burke, and Bradley Burke; sister, Marie Rakowski; sister-in-law, Elizabeth Ireland; and several nieces, nephews and extended family. He was predeceased by his parents; grandson, Brandon Bartlett; brother, Tom Siniarski and brother-in-law, Bob Rakowski.
Friends are encouraged to support Ben’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m., just prior to the service. 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 Ben’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 the Lion’s Club. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Barbara Jean Patrick
Barbara Jean Patrick, age 93 of Charlotte, passed peacefully into the arms of her Savior on November 10, 2025, in East Lansing. Barbara’s journey came to a serene close, leaving behind countless cherished memories and a legacy of love.
Barbara was born on April 25, 1932, in Lansing, Michigan, to Jacob and Lydia (Leitzke) Gruhn. A proud member of the Lansing Eastern High School class of 1950, Barbara’s life was marked by her quiet, loving, and giving nature. Over the years, she cultivated a deep appreciation for family, especially cherishing the moments gathered around the table or celebrating Christmas together. These occasions filled her heart with joy, and she made it a priority to support her grandchildren by attending their sporting events. Barbara was also an active volunteer at Hayes Green Beach Hospital, dedicating many years of her life to serving her community. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Gus Patrick Jr., with whom she shared 72 wonderful years of marriage; her sons, Brett Patrick of Chandler, AZ, and Gus (Tamara) Patrick III of Charlotte, MI; her daughter, Tracy Fabus of Lansing; six beloved grandchildren and 10 adoring great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law Gloria Gruhn and Donna Gruhn; and many nieces and nephews.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents and her seven siblings: William (Harriett) Gruhn, Russell (Lorraine) Gruhn, Theodore (Elsie) Gruhn, Milton Gruhn, Lucille Gruhn, Irma Gruhn, and Dale Gruhn.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Pastor Chad Rogers officiating. The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the funeral home on Saturday.
Those desiring to make contributions in Barbara’s memory may do so by donating to the Gresham United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, 5055 Mulliken Road, Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Barbara’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.
Christine Louise Pease
Christine “Chris” Louise Pease formally of Charlotte, Michigan, passed away Saturday, November 1, 2025 at the My Michigan Medical Hospital in Saginaw, Michigan. Chris was born July 27, 1960, the daughter of Edward and Velma Pease. Chris spent nearly her entire life taking care of her older sister, Cheryl Pease.
A member of the Order of the Eastern Star previously in the Kalamo Chapter #399, Chris then elected to dual enrollment in the Brookfield Chapter #352 and Mulliken Chapter #161. Chris served in many roles, including Worthy Matron, Grand Officer for the Karnowsky Bradley Grand Family and several other Grand committee positions.
As a member of the Methodist Church, Chris’ relationship with God was very important to her. In the beginning of her ministry, she held services at Independence Village and Flower House, as well as led Bible Study for the residents. She served as Minister for the Pleasant Lake United Methodist Church in Pleasant Lake, Michigan for a few years until the church closed. Recently she assisted with services at the Masonic Home in Alma, Michigan where she has resided since the spring of 2022. Drawing strength from her faith, Chis fought valiantly to survive the devastating complications of diabetes.
Friends and organizations alike could always count on Chris to help whenever help was needed. She helped start the Kalamo UMC Food Pantry and worked with both the volunteers and the recipients. She assisted in the Peanut Brittle Fundraiser and Golf Tournament Fundraisers for Eastern Star. Chris enjoyed reading, crocheting, and cooking. She was always ready to bring a tasty dish to delight her friends.
She was proceeded in death by her parents, Edward R. Pease and Velma A. (Oaster) Pease and by her sister, Cheryl J. Pease. Chris is survived by her sister, Carolyn (Gary) LaCross; nephew, Jason (Melissa) LaCross; niece, Jill (Adam) Potter; and seven great nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will take place at the Masonic Center in Potterville, MI on November 20, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. and interment will be at the Riverside Cemetery in Bellevue, Michigan at a later date.
Submitted by family
William Lee Brown
William Lee Brown, affectionately known to many as Skip, passed away on October 24, 2025, at the age of 83. Born in Lansing on November 27, 1941, the son of Myrrel and Mabel (Shellito) Brown. Skip served his nation with honor as a Navy veteran of the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he started his career at General Motors, where he remained for 37 years. Upon his retirement in 2000, he continued to demonstrate his commitment to his fellow workers through active membership in UAW Local 602. A man of many interests, Skip found joy in the intricacies of woodworking, creating many beautiful pieces. He was a gifted golfer and loved playing cards and gambling. Skip’s enormous heart was evident in his role as a foster parent. Alongside his wife, they welcomed 17 children into their home over the years, offering them love, stability, and the warmth of a family environment.
Skip is survived by his wife, Sandra Brown of Eaton Rapids; children, William (Denise) Brown of Eaton Rapids, Timothy Brown of Olivet, Thomas Brown of Eaton Rapids; grandchildren, Kassandra (Dillon Kirt) Brown, Andrew (Kenzie) Brown, Sean (Emily) Brown, Christian (Shay) Ritzler, Amanda (Josh) Ritzler; 10 great grandchildren; siblings, Steven (Janet) Brown, Eunice Chedester. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Larry Brown, Kevin Brown; grandson, Justin Brown; granddaughter, Meghan Brown; great grandson, Maddox Brown.
A Funeral service was held at noon on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at Eaton Rapids Church of the Nazarene, 2225 S. Michigan Rd, Eaton Rapids MI 48827. Visitation was held one hour prior to the service. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Compassus Hospice of Lansing in loving memory of William Lee Brown. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.
Victor Bertrum Gates
Victor Bertrum Gates of Pierre, South Dakota, passed away November 2, 2025, at the age of 75. Victor was born in Pierre, South Dakota on February 22, 1950, the son of Jesse and Naomi (Field) Gates. He graduated from Eaton Rapids High School with the class of 1968. His passion for technology and innovation led him to a distinguished career in the telecommunications industry. Victor teamed with MetroVision to bring the first cable TV to Eaton Rapids. His expertise culminated in his role as Vice President of Engineering at Time Warner. Victor’s hands were rarely still. In his free time, he enjoyed woodworking, golf and running.
Victor is survived by his children, Paul (Mia) Gates, Matthew (Reatha) Gates, Joseph (Alicah) Gates, Victoria (Casey) Melton, grandchildren, Lukas, Emilia, Tesla, Allison, Mattison, Reanna, Justin, McCullough, DiMaggio, August, William, Nathan; siblings, Joe (Peggy), Andy, Daniel (Mary), Naomi, Kathy. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Gene, Allen, Jerry, Francis, John, and Theresa.
Memorial services will be held at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Donor’s Choice of Charity. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.
Dawn Edwards
Dawn Edwards of Eaton Rapids, passed away October 28, 2025, at the age of 88. Dawn was born in Mackinaw City, Michigan, on May 18, 1937, the daughter of George and Dorothy (Preston) Hayes. Her family owned and operated The Keg Bar in Eaton Rapids, where she worked for many years as a waitress. One of Dawn’s favorite pastimes was walking around town, greeting friends and strangers alike with her radiant smile and exchanging stories. An aficionado of games and good company, her Friday nights were a long-standing tradition of poker with family and the occasional trip to the casino. Above all, Dawn’s grandchildren were the light of her life. She poured love and care into every moment spent with them, whether it was cheering them on at sporting events or simply enjoying their company.
Dawn is survived by her children, Denise Hughey of Campbellsville, KY, Karen Aleo of Indian Mound, TN, Larry (Jennifer) Edwards of Eaton Rapids; grandchildren, Anthony (Ashley) Hughey, Allison Hughey, Michael (Toni) Aleo, Matthew Aleo, Nicholas Aleo, Rachel Villavicencio, Kati Edwards, Travis Edwards, Kyle (Jodi) Deroshia, Steven Deroshia; as well as several great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; children, George Deroshia, Gary Deroshia, Robert “Bobby” Edwards.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to all the staff at Island City Assisted Living for their great care of Dawn over the last couple of years.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in loving memory of Margie Dawn Edwards. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.
Carrol LeRoy Spicer
Carrol LeRoy Spicer, a true farmer and loving brother, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday, October 17, 2025. Carrol, 80, of Bellevue, Michigan was born May 3, 1945 in Delta Township, Eaton County, Michigan to Albert Dewey Spicer and Virginia Ida (Huffman) Spicer.
The fourth of nine children, Carrol was raised in a large family. As a child, Carrol attended Wetmore Country School, and later, Charlotte Public Schools. Upon graduating high school, Car-rol enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in Korea. Following his return home, Car-rol was employed by Fisher Body for 32 years until retiring to pursue his true passion, farming.
An outdoorsman and travel enthusiast, Carrol had an affinity for kayaking, hunting, and road trips to Kentucky and Tennessee. He also enjoyed attending farm machinery auctions, watching Western and old war movies, and meticulously maintaining his trucks over the years (he was especially proud of his Chevrolet Silverado). He is remembered by his family as a great conversationalist, a humble and caring man, and someone who was always willing to help others.
Carrol is survived by his siblings, Beverly Kortman, Jim (Cathy) Spicer, Mary Gattner, Delores (Alvah) Holmes, Judy (Rick) Williams, and Harold Spicer; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents; brothers, DuWayne Peer Spicer and Lawrence Spicer; infant sister, Josephine, in 1943; and brother-in-law Larry “Spud” Gattner.
Friends are encouraged to support Carrol’s family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A celebration of Life will be held in the Spring of 2026. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Michael Edward Tanner
Michael “Mike” Edward Tanner, 77, of Charlotte, Michigan, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on October 28, 2025, surrounded by love.
Born on March 23, 1948, in Alma, Michigan, to Les and Jeanne Tanner, Mike lived the majority of his life in Charlotte. He proudly served his country in the military and went on to build a 36-year career with General Motors before retiring.
Mike was a faithful follower of Jesus and a devoted member of the Charlotte Church of Christ. He lived his faith out loud—through his service, his kindness, and his heart for others. Whether volunteering at the Crosswalk Teen Center, delivering for Meals on Wheels, or helping a neighbor in need, Mike never missed an opportunity to lend a hand. He had a gift for connection—he nev-er met a stranger and always found ways to share God’s love with those around him. His heart’s desire was to help “one more” and to shine the light of Christ wherever he went.
He found joy in the simple things: fishing, biking, working in his yard, and spending time with his family. He loved deeply and expressed it in his big, unforgettable hugs. His family always felt the strength of his love across every mile and moment shared.
Mike courageously fought his battle with cancer, and while his family grieves his absence, they rejoice in knowing he is now free from pain and resting in the arms of Jesus.
He is survived by his loving wife, Joyce Tanner; children, Heather (Brian) Wright, and Bryan (Stacy) Tanner, Jason (Julie) Balgavy; grandchildren, Hayden Wright, Garrett Tanner, Colby Tanner; Kendal Balgavy; and sister, Marcha (Douglas) Lippert. He was preceded in death by his parents, Les and Jeanne Tanner.
A celebration of Mike’s life will be held Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Visitation will be held just prior to the service from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. A graveside service will follow on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Riverside Cemetery in Alma, Michigan. If desired the family suggests memorial contributions to the Cross-walk Teen Center, Rock Lake Christian Assembly, or the Charlotte Church of Christ. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home.
Mike’s life was a reflection of his faith—quietly steady, joyfully generous, and full of love. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him.
Robert Morris
Robert “Bob” Morris born November 4, 1946 in Browning, MO. Bob passed peacefully in his home surrounded by his family and friends on October 24, 2025 at the age of 78. He was a Journeyman Electrician for 31 years at General Motors and retired in 1996. His time was spent migrating between Arizona and Michigan until staying in Michigan permanently in 2004. He spent most his time fishing, riding motorcycles, watching dirt track races, and spending time with his family. He spent countless hours repairing bicycles and donating 100’s of them to the kids around his neighborhood and several others in Lansing. He is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Mary Jo “Jody” Morris; sons, Richard “Scott” (Renee) Morris of Lansing, Shane (Amy) Morris of Eaton Rapids; daughters, Starr (Dan) Newcomb (Morris) of Eaton Rapids, Spring (Kevin) Sheldon of Holt; son; six grandchildren, Jory (Cass) Green, Brooke (Ben) Sheldon, Dylan Newcomb, Travis Sheldon, Elizabeth Lentz, Brock Morris; four great-grandchildren, Nevaeh Sheldon, Braelynn Newcomb, Tamsyn Sheldon, Naomi Newcomb; many nephews, and nieces, and extended family members.
To share memories or leave online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.