Obituaries
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.
Janet Tinkey
Janet Tinkey, age 78, of Potterville, passed away on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. The daughter of Earl and Jean Scutt, she was born on April 2, 1947 in Charlotte.
Jan retired from Sparrow Hospital after 41 years as a nurse. During Jan’s time at Sparrow she was awarded nurse of the year. As a member of Sycamore-Creek Church in Potterville, Jan dedicated many hours of time to the church Food Bank and organized many community dinners. She was passionate about her family, reading, gardening, cooking, knitting, Duck Lake summers, and Michigan State basketball.
She was preceded in death by her parents. Surviving is her husband, Jim Tinkey; children, Jodi West, Sarah (Aaron) Rock, Lisa (Paolo) Dilernia, Kimberly (Jay) Austin, Scott (Brandy) Tinkey, and Shawn (Lisa) Tinkey; brother, David (Debra) Scutt; brother-in-law, Roger Tinkey; 13 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and her beloved dog, Maggie.
Memorial contributions may be made in honor of Janet Tinkey to the Potterville-Benton Public Library.
To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Janet’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.NeptuneSociety.com.
Zachary Carl Burton
Zachary Carl Burton, 45, of Charlotte, Michigan, passed away on October 22, 2025, following a brief illness due to complications of diabetes. Zack was born on February 8, 1980, in Newberry, Michigan, the son of Carl and Lorraine (Day) Burton.
Zack was three years old when the family moved to the farm where he would spend the rest of his life. He grew up loving the outdoors, animals, his family, and the neighborhood boys who became his lifelong friends. A curious and mischievous boy with a core of kindness and humor, Zack found friends everywhere.
As he grew older, Zack found joy in hunting and fishing. He spent many hours fishing on lakes or at “Grandma’s Pond” with his dad or friends. He enjoyed hunting and customizing firearms but mostly loved bowhunting for deer. The quiet hours he spent in the woods, high in his tree stand, were his happiest times—-whether or not he came home with a deer. He cherished the peace of the woods and the beauty of the wildlife around him, and truly loved sharing the pastime with his friends.
Diagnosed with diabetes at the age of 22, Zack’s battle with the complications of the disease shaped his adult life, eventually leading to kidney failure, dialysis, and other health challenges. Through it all, Zack faced each day bravely, with humor and an unwavering spirit that inspired those around him.
Zack is survived by his parents, Carl and Lorraine Burton; his sisters, Gail (Anthony) Sykes of Ypsilanti, Tricia Holmes of Battle Creek, Colleen Burton of Lansing, and Melinda (Ian) Pegg of Battle Creek; his dear friends who were like brothers—Andy Potter, Brad Mann, Mike Newland, and Rich Bodell; his nephew and nieces; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Zack also leaves behind countless friends and members of his medical care teams who will miss his cheerful smile and quick wit.
A memorial service will be held at the family farm on November 14, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in Zack’s memory be made to diabetes research or to the American Kidney Foundation.
James Hugh Hartenburg
James Hugh Hartenburg, an easy going husband, father, and grandfather, died on Saturday, October 25, 2025. James, 84, of East Lansing, formerly of Charlotte, was born on September 10, 1941, in Wheeler Township, the son of Lloyd and Dorothea (King) Hartenburg. Upon graduating from high school James attended Michigan Tech University where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering. Shortly after, while attending Detroit Bible College, he met Alta Smoll. They married on October 14, 1971, and spent the next 54 years creating lasting memories. James would pastor at a few community churches in the Howell area before joining MDOT to work as an engineer. At MDOT James designed overhead mass tower lighting for Michigan freeways. His children remember the countless miles traveling around the state and James pointing out the lights that he designed.
James enjoyed striking up a conversation with anyone, and would always find something in common with that person. Other hobbies he enjoyed included reading, watching westerns and history shows, and being active with his dogs. Anything with his grandchildren (especially attending their events) was the most important. He volunteered tutoring math to middle schoolers after retirement, and he always had a good story to tell. Above all, his proudest accomplishment in life was his family.
James is survived by his wife, Alta; daughters, Rachel (Troy) Latunski and Sarah Hartenburg; grandchildren, Alex, Sierra, and Tyler Latunski; and brother, Gerald (Judie) Hartenburg. He was predeceased by his parents.
Friends are encouraged to support James’s family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Celester Sylvester Fox
Celester “Les” Sylvester Fox, 96, of Vermontville, Michigan, passed away peacefully, October 17, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, living a life marked by integrity, hard work, and love for his family and community. The legacy he left is one of quiet dedication and steadfast love, and his touch and ways will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him.
Born on September 14, 1929, in Westphalia, Michigan, he was the son of Joseph and Ida (Spitzley) Fox. He graduated from Pewamo High School, developing a lifelong enthusiasm for sports; a passion he would carry throughout his lifetime.
Les proudly served his country in the United States Army and was honorably discharged, continuing his commitment to service as a proud member of the American Legion in Vermontville, Michigan. When he returned from the service he married the love of his life, Virginia on October 1, 1955. Together they built a strong and loving family, and took immense joy in watching their children and grandchildren grow and excel in their various activities, especially in sports. His life revolved around the things that mattered most; faith, family, friendship, and honest work.
A successful and respected grain elevator operator/inspector, Les was known for his tireless work ethic, fairness, and unwavering honesty. Outside of work, he was an avid sports fan and enjoyed playing cards, golf, baseball, and basketball. He found joy in both the games and the camaraderie they brought. Those who knew Les will remember him as a kind-hearted, dependable, and humble man; a good friend to many and a source of strength and support to his family.
Les is survived by his wife, Virginia; children, Michael (Kim) Fox, Rebecca (Kirk) Richmond, and Donald (Lori) Fox; grandchildren, Courtney (Tom) Farmer, Jason (Caitie) Fox, Tristen (Kelsey) Fox, Andrew (Tia Schutte) Fox, Paige (Jeffrey) Feldausch, Jordan (Ty) Hisler; great-grandchildren, Will and Eve Farmer, Olivia and Nathan Fox, Preslee Feldpausch, Chase Fox, and Waylon Huntley Hisler; siblings, Richard (Cheryl) Fox and Ambrose (Kathy) Fox. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Victoria Lynn Fox; siblings, William (Jarene) Fox, Stanley (Therse) Fox, Carl (Carol) Fox, Betty (Herm) Schneider, Deloris (Don) Maidlow, Mark Fox.
Friends are encouraged to support Les’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A memorial service will be held on Monday, November 10, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. Visitation will be held just prior to the service from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. 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 Les’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 Eaton County Health and Rehabilitation Services, or the American Cancer Society. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.