Obituaries
Sarah Margaret Chandler
Sarah Margaret Chandler, a remarkable woman whose life was marked by dedication, compassion, and an unyielding spirit, passed away on Friday, October 6, 2023, at the age of 81, in Salisbury, North Carolina.
Born on August 7, 1942, to Pastor Jarrett T. Chandler and Annabelle Slack Chandler in Charleston, West Virginia, Sarah’s journey through life was one defined by unwavering determination, boundless love, and a deep commitment to her family and community.
Sarah’s early years were marked by a sense of adventure as her family moved across various locations in West Virginia. At age 16, she and her family settled in North Haledon, New Jersey, where her father assumed the role of a pastor at the First Baptist Church in Paterson, New Jersey.
On September 8, 1962, Sarah married Robert Edward Planten, and together they embarked on the joys of parenthood, having four sons. Despite her busy role as a mother, Sarah was determined to pursue her dreams. In May 1973, she earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education from William Paterson University in Wayne, New Jersey. This marked the beginning of her lifelong dedication to education. She opened her own nursery school, the Milton Early Learning Center, after an apprenticeship at another nursery school in West Milford, New Jersey. For 13 years, Sarah nurtured and educated young minds, instilling in them a love for learning.
In 1985, as a single mother, Sarah embarked on another journey, enrolling in a paralegal program at Montclair State College. She worked tirelessly, juggling two full-time jobs; one at New Jersey Bell Telephone the other as a waitress at Jorgensen’s Inn.
In May of 1987, Sarah was accepted into Cooley Law School in Lansing, Michigan, where she completed her law degree in May 1990 while working full time at a law firm. Following her studies, she clerked for an Eaton County Circuit Court Judge, proving her unwavering commitment to justice. In May of 1991, she opened her law practice in Charlotte, Michigan, which she passionately pursued until her retirement in 2017.
Sarah’s commitment to her community extended far beyond her legal career. She was a founding member of SIREN, Inc., now known as SIREN/Eaton Shelter, Inc., providing a safe haven for victims of domestic violence and homelessness. She served as the president of the Charlotte Kiwanis Club, Lansing Torch Club, and Altrusa Club of Greater Lansing, leaving a lasting impact on each organization.
Sarah’s dedication was recognized with the Lansing State Journal’s People’s Choice Award for Charlotte Attorney in 2010 and 2011, as well as the Community Cornerstone Award from Mayor Brown of Charlotte.
Her faith and love for music led her to Central United Methodist Church, where she sang in the choir during a European tour, sharing her voice in churches across Austria, East Germany, and Czechoslovakia. She was actively involved in numerous church committees and served as a Sunday School teacher.
Upon her retirement, Sarah relocated to Salisbury, North Carolina, where she continued to serve her community as a member of First United Methodist Church and the Salisbury Kiwanis Club.
Sarah is survived by her loving sons Ronald, Donald, and Duane, her cherished grandson Jonathan, her sister Anna Chandler Wilkins, and her brother, Dr. Jarrett T. Chandler, Jr. Her legacy of love, dedication, and service will live on in the hearts of all those whose lives she touched.
A memorial service celebrating Sarah’s life will be held at First United Methodist Church in Salisbury, North Carolina.
The Chandler family has entrusted Lyerly Funeral Home with the arrangements. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.lyerlyfuneralhome.com.
Sarah Margaret Chandler’s life was a testament to the power of resilience, love, and the impact one person can have on the world. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Donald Edward Wyckoff
Donald Edward Wyckoff embarked on his first day in the embrace of his Lord and Savior on Sunday, October 8, 2023. Born on July 8, 1945, in Eaton Rapids, MI, he was the son of Harold and Norma (Clark) Wyckoff. He was raised in Eaton Rapids where he graduated in the class of 1963. Don’s journey led him to Ferris State University to study graphic design before he answered the call to serve in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, where he was stationed at Ft. McClellan in Alabama.
In his professional life, Don made significant contributions to the field of Marketing, notably as the Art Director for the State of Michigan, where his talent and dedication earned him numerous awards and accolades. He also dedicated six years to promoting golf in Michigan, marketing, and championing golf courses across the state. After retiring, he served as the Director of the Eaton Rapids Chamber of Commerce, introducing the Ryder Cup Challenge and tirelessly working to bring new businesses to the community. His efforts led to the establishment of a coffee shop, children’s theatre, the GAR Museum, the Eaton Rapids Christian School, and the first Eaton Rapids City Market.
Don was a devoted follower of Jesus and served Him for many years at the First Baptist Church. He initiated the Christmas Eve service and directed it for several years. Don’s passion for music shone through his participation in the FBC praise band, and as a member of the Sojourner Quartet. He was honored with the Ted Oliver Award for his unwavering commitment and service to the Eaton Rapids Community.
Don is survived by his wife, Carolyn (Marietta) Wyckoff; his children, Angela (Dan) Kidder, and Matthew Wyckoff. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Madelyn Kidder, Carson (Maddy) Kidder; one sister, Pat (Stan) Sims; nieces and nephews; longtime friend and kidney donor, Dean(Carleen) Peters; and his church family at First Baptist Church of Eaton Rapids.
The family received friends at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids on Thursday, October 12, 2023. Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday at the First Baptist Church in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the church or to the Don Wyckoff memorial fund in care of Carolyn Wyckoff. To share memories or leave online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com
Barbara Ann Wireman
Barbara Ann Wireman, age 93, of Olivet, passed away peacefully into the arms of her Savior on Saturday, September 30, 2023. She was born August 16, 1930, in Jerusalem Township, Lucas County, Ohio the daughter of Alfred and Frances (Garver) Cousino. On December 25, 1948, she married Homer Wireman and enjoyed life’s joys together for 60 years. Barb was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She always looked forward to Christmas time when she would gather her family around her table and enjoy spending time together. She and Homer loved collecting numerous types of treasures throughout their lives but her bell collection was her favorite. She had collected over 13,000 bells in total during her life. Barb also like Fenton Glass, antique furniture, and vintage Christmas decorations. Barb loved traveling together with Homer throughout the United States and they were sure to stop at each and every garage sale along the way.
Barb is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Homer; sons, Donald Wireman, Timothy Wireman; grandsons, Teddy Wireman, Andrew Wireman, Jeremy Murphy; siblings, Myrna Neufer, James (Marija) Cousino, Patricia Cousino, and John Cousino.
She is survived by her children, Robert Wireman, Cris (Larry) Rizzuto, Albert (Cathy) Wireman, Gary (Kathi) Wireman, Rick (Michelle) Wireman, Pam (Mark) Wells, John (Lisa) Wireman, James (Kathy) Wireman, Mike Wireman; sister, Sharon (Ron) Hanna; daughters-in-law, Ann Wireman, Vickie Wireman; sister-in-law Louise Cousino; brother-in-law, Earl Neufer; 20 grandchildren; many great grandchildren; and numerous great great-grandchildren.
The family received friends on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. Following the visitation, a graveside service took place at approximately 11:45 a.m. at Bosworth Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contributions in Barb’s honor to Eaton Community Palliative Care 2675 S. Cochran Road, Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Barb’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com
Bonnie K. Stansbury
Bonnie K. Stansbury, age 82, of Olivet, passed away on Friday, September 29, 2023. She was born July 21, 1941, in Charlotte, the daughter of Leonard and Ina (Thornton) Post. Bonnie adored her family and cherished each and every opportunity she had to spend together with them. Children held a special place in her heart and she was at her happiest when surrounded by them. She worked for the Olivet Public Schools for many years. When not at work she enjoyed fishing, camping, and cleaning. Bonnie loved all holidays and always looked forward to having those she loved most together with her.
Bonnie is survived by her children, Darrell (Lori) Wampler of Charlotte, Dawn Hickey of Swartz Creek, Darren (Kristin Mundy) Wampler of Hicksville, Ohio; seven grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Billy; son Darwin Wampler; and grandson, Rudy Albarez.
Funeral services were held on Friday, October 6, 2023, at 1 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. The family received friends from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. just prior to the service. Burial will follow at Bosworth Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contributions in Bonnie’s memory to the American Kidney Foundation.
To view Bonnie’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Teresa Ann Treadwell
Teresa Ann Treadwell, of Eaton Rapids and formerly Charlotte, known by many for her very giving heart, died October 1, 2023 at the age of 50. Teresa was born December 24, 1972 in Eaton Rapids, the third daughter of Richard and Vivian (Galusha) Freer. A 1991 graduate of Eaton Rapids High School, Teresa went on to be a secretary for the Eaton County Jail for many years. She and her late husband, Larry, loved to tell people that they met in jail (he was a deputy). Teresa adored her children and was a very involved mom, attending every event and being involved in all of their activities as they were growing up. Some of Teresa’s favorite activities were listening to classical and Disney music, watching her favorite TV shows (MASH and Chicago Fire), and any opportunity where she could go camping in her tent.
Teresa is survived by her son, Lance (Taylor) Treadwell; daughter, Meagan Treadwell; step son, Larry Treadwell; father, Richard Freer; sisters, Janet Freer and Cindy (Kevin) Richmond; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and her beloved dog, Sham. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence Lee Treadwell in 2018; and by her mother, Vivian Freer in 2020.
Friends are encouraged to support Teresa’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation and a celebration of Life were held Thursday, October 5, 2023 with Rev. Andy Shaver officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Susan G. Komen. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.