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Funeral Services:

Dorothy Jean Paige, 99, of Bellevue, passed away on February 13, 2025 at SJ Flower House AFC Home in Nashville, MI. She was born on July 24, 1925 to Theadore J. and Mildred A. (Price) Burton in Battle Creek, MI. Dorothy graduated from Bellevue High School. She married her soulmate Leslie “Les” C. Paige on August 29, 1945 in Battle Creek and they were together for 66 years, Les preceded her in death on June 13, 2011. 

Dorothy enjoyed working in her garden, reading, and traveling to Alaska. She rode on the back of Les’s motorcycle; they would go riding sometimes with her brother. They enjoyed camping and fishing in Florida at Lake Okeechobee. Dorothy also enjoyed farming and sitting by the river.

Dorothy is survived by her brother, Albert Burton, nieces, nephews and special friends. 

She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings Margaret Baker, Richard Burton, Madaline Willavize, Tom Burton, Ruth Smothers, and Bobbie Eaton.

There are no services scheduled at this time; cremation has taken place. Dorothy will be interred at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, MI with her husband, Les, at a later date. 

Memorials are suggested to the charity of one’s choice. Arrangements have been entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services. Please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guestbook, to share memories and pictures with the family.  

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Funeral Services:

Francisco Ramirez, Sr., 75, of Battle Creek, MI passed away at home on Monday, February 17, 2025 after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. Francisco was born in Edcouch, TX, the son of the late Jose Ramirez and Jovita (Ornelas) Ramirez. He moved with his family to Michigan at the age of 16. Francisco was drafted into the United States Army in 1969 serving until 1971 as a Gunner, earning the National Defense Service Medal as a Sharpshooter (M14, M16). He worked at GM in Lansing for over 40 years, retiring in 2008. He loved working outdoors and was always willing to help anyone with anything, anytime they needed it.

He and his wife, Susie were married for over 53 years and created countless happy memories together.

Francisco is survived by his devoted wife, Susie; their two sons, Francisco (Angela) Ramirez, Jr., Ricardo (Carrie) Ramirez; grandchildren, Vanessa, Austin, Sydney (Hugh), Dylan, Aleah; great-grandchildren, Alex, Ava, Austin Jr., Mallorie; siblings, Juan Ramirez, Simon (Candy) Ramirez, Jose (Tammie) Ramirez, Carmen Esquivel, Marta (Lupe) Sanchez, Jovita (Javier) Puentes, Leonarda Ramirez, Margarita (Arturo) Reuz; sister-in-law, Diane Ramirez; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Arturo Ramirez, Fernando Ramirez; sister, Jesusita Ramirez, Anita Ramirez, Teresita Ramirez; and sister-in-law, Jane Ramirez.

Visitation will take place at the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service on Monday, February 24, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m., with the memorial service to follow at 12:00 p.m.

Memorial donations may be made in Francisco’s honor to the Kirk Gibson Foundation, 280 N. Old Woodward, Suite 106, Birmingham, MI 48009, or online at www.kirkgibsonfoundation.org.

Arrangements entrusted to the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service, 269-788-9800. www.baxterfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

Kevin Braithwaite, age 70, passed away February 18, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born to Lloyd and Joyce Braithwaite, Kevin was raised in Charlotte, Michigan, and graduated from Charlotte High School in 1972. He went on to earn a degree from Michigan State University with honors. In 1988, he welcomed his daughter, Kaitlin, with whom he shared a deep and special bond. A devoted and proud father, Kevin cherished their time together and took immense joy in watching her grow. In 2004, he married Patty Cross Boucher and embraced his expanded family, later becoming a beloved “Pop Pop” to eight grandchildren.

Kevin was a voracious reader with an endless desire to learn. He also enjoyed golfing in the Dinx on the Linx league for 30 years. After his retirement from the State Department of Management and Budget, he and Patty fulfilled a dream of traveling the world, visiting several western states, New York, San Diego, Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, the Maldives, and Paris.

Kevin is survived by his daughter Kaitlin (Dylan) Haan and their three children Audrey, Isla, and Lukas; his wife Patty and her children Jessica Boucher, Katie (Ryan) Starkweather, and Daniel (Nicole McLeod) Boucher; grandchildren Allie, Reid, Sage, Addy, and Lane; his brother Todd (Sharon) Braithwaite; sister-in-law Julie (Chuck) Cooper; and brother-in-law Sam (Kathy) Cross.

Kevin was known for his quick wit, sharp mind, and dry sense of humor. He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.

Per Kevin’s wishes, no services will be held. The family kindly asks for privacy and appreciates your understanding in respecting their wishes for discretion.

Those desiring to make contributions in Kevin’s memory may do so by donating to Eaton Area Senior Center, 804 S. Cochran Ave., Charlotte, MI 48813.

To view Kevin’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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Funeral Services:

Stephen Wayne Ferrell, a faith-filled servant to both his country and St. John’s church, died February 14, 2025. Stephen, 73, of Charlotte was born May 11, 1951, in Charleston, West Virginia, to Ira Ervin and Elizabeth Ella (Pennington) Ferrell. Stephen served in the U.S. Air Force at K. I. Sawyer Air Force base as a U.P. Guard and also served in Vietnam. After the service, Stephen moved to Florida where he went to work at Owens Illinois in Lakeland, Florida, being a third-generation employee, and also working as a beekeeper. Stephen moved back to Charlotte in 2003 with O.I. His father and grandfather were instrumental in opening the O.I. plant in 1963.

Stephen was a faithful servant at All Saints Episcopal Church in Lakeland and after moving back to Charlotte at St. John’s Church serving as an Episcopal Vestry Jr. Warden and a lector reader. He also served as an Eaton Community Palliative Care volunteer. Flower gardening and reading were some activities he enjoyed, as well as loving literature, specifically Science Fiction and church history. With great knowledge for trivia, Stephen would often come up with answers that no one else could. He also served as the family genealogist, and was extremely proud of his kids and grandkids. 

Stephen is survived by his sons, Scott Ira Ferrell and Todd Barrett Ferrell; mother, Elizabeth Ferrell; grandchildren, Ella and Owen; brother, Rick Ferrell; sister, Mary Holcomb; and former spouse Cathy Ferrell.  He was predeceased by his father. 

Friends are encouraged to support Stephen’s family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Memorial services will take place in Florida and Michigan. Florida services were Friday, February 21, 1:00 p.m. at All Saints Episcopal Church in Lakeland, Florida. Services in Michigan are Thursday, February 27, 1:00 p.m. at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Charlotte, Michigan. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Charles Atlee Anderson II, passed away on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born January 25, 1955, in Parkersburg, WV, the son of Charles and Dortha (Pennington) Anderson. Chuck graduated from Charlotte High School in 1973. After graduation he attended Lansing Community College and earned his Associate’s degree. On May 19, 1984, he married Laurie Marie Davis at the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church in Charlotte, MI. Chuck loved spending time outdoors. Fishing, camping and his dog Thor were the pastimes that brought him the most joy. He was also a huge MSU Spartan and Detroit Lions fan. Chuck was an extremely talented man and could complete any task he set his mind to. He was affectionately known as MacGyver by his family and closest friends. Above all Chuck was a devoted family man who cherished his wife, children, and grandchildren. He will always be loved and never forgotten. 

Chuck is survived by his wife, Laurie; daughters, Alyssa (Bob) Flahive of Portage, Ashley (Jordan) Rogers of Middleville, Amanda (Aaron) Tarr of Stafford, VA; grandchildren, Hudson Tarr, Tyler Flahive, Easton Flahive, Grayson Tarr, Lillian Rogers; and sister, Donna (Carl) Hartman of Haslett. 

He was preceded in deÇΩath by his parents and brother-in-law, Jerry Joppie. 

The family received friends on Friday, February 21, 2025, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. There will be a private family memorial service held at a later date. 

Those desiring may make contributions in Chuck’s memory to Eaton County Humane Society, 129 N. Main Street, Olivet, MI 49076 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.stjude.org

To view Chuck’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com

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Funeral Services:

Bonny Louise Powers, 68, of Eaton Rapids, MI, passed away on Tuesday, February 18, 2025. She was born on September 22, 1956, in Eaton Rapids, the daughter of Robert and Joyce (Burlison) Bodell.

A proud graduate of Eaton Rapids High School’s Class of 1975, Bonny went on to build a career in construction as a skilled drywall finisher for over 40 years. Gifted with remarkable craftsmanship, she found joy in woodworking, crafting, and home remodeling. No project was too big or too challenging, she even built a deck for her home, meticulously handcrafting the balusters for its railing.

Above all, Bonny cherished her family. She especially loved the holidays, going all out for Christmas with an abundance of beautifully wrapped gifts, each adorned with her handmade bows. She found happiness in attending craft shows, shopping, and caring for her beloved pets, particularly her dogs.

Bonny was preceded in death by her son, Jason Krokker; her parents; her brother, Robert Bodell; and her sister, Krystal Simpson.

She is survived by her loving husband of 22 years, Ted Powers; her children, Savannah (Brandon) Prince and Matt (Heather) Briggs; her cherished grandchildren, Tristan, Tahya, Avy, Ayden, Bryce, Jaxon, Riley, and Maddox; her sister, Debra (Dan) Loughan; her brother-in-law, Roy Simpson; and her beloved dog, Bella, and cat, Rascal, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

A memorial visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. In honor of Bonny’s memory, contributions may be made to the Lupus Research Alliance.

To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Funeral Services:

Phyliss Jean Eaton, 89 years old, passed away on February 16, 2025.  Born in Chicago, Illinois to Philipp and Marie (Edegaard) Krebs on July 28, 1935. The second of four siblings, Lois (Compton), Sue (Jamieson), and Richard Krebs.  She was married to Harold Eaton for some 55 plus years till his passing and together they raised two children together, Terry and Debbie.  They had one grandson, Mark, and four great grandchildren, Austin, Sienna and twins, Brennen and Carson.  

She and Harold enjoyed square dancing, and she would sew up matching outfits for that.  They made multiple trips to Hawaii, and anywhere it was warm. Phyliss desperately loved her family and especially hosting an Easter dinner with any and all available family, along with an egg hunt for the dozen or so children there. In their later years, she and Harold operated a woodworking business that was respected by the various crafters and teachers they supplied.

Phyliss is survived by her son, Terry and Janie (Craft) Eaton, grandson, Mark and Lorie (Mays) Eaton; sister, Sue and brother, Richard, the great grandchildren along with numerous nieces and nephews.  

There will be a celebration of life along with a luncheon at the First Congregational Church, 300 S. Main St., Eaton Rapids, on Tuesday, February 25, at 12:00 p.m. 

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Funeral Services:

Dean Hamilton Mills, 84, of Eaton Rapids, MI, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 7, 2025. Born on November 6, 1940, to Blanchard and Mary (Tenney) Mills, Dean was a lifelong resident of Eaton Rapids. He graduated from Eaton Rapids High School in 1958 before attending Michigan State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in education.

Dean began his career as an English teacher at Marion Public Schools before transitioning to the Michigan Department of Corrections, where he worked until his retirement in the early 1990s. However, his true passion was serving his community. For 40 years, Dean dedicated himself as a volunteer firefighter, Auxiliary Police, EMT, and later a paramedic. His commitment to emergency services played a vital role in the establishment of the new Emergency Room at Eaton Rapids Medical Center.

Beyond his service, Dean was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed deer hunting and sport shooting as a member of the Three Fires flintlock shooting club. A 6th-degree black belt, he also shared his love of martial arts by teaching karate in his community. A devoted sports fan, he cheered faithfully for the Michigan State Spartans, Detroit Lions, and Detroit Tigers.

Dean is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Cindy Hogan; his children, Diane Peltier, Kim (Brad) Butler, Laura Mills, Lynn (Wayne) Sleeman, Jim Mills, Susan Myers, and Tom Milbourn; 15 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; his brother, Jon (Vicky) Mills; and many extended family members and dear friends.

A service to honor Dean’s life was held at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. The family received friends on Tuesday from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and again one hour prior to the service on Wednesday.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Rapids Medical Center Foundation in Dean’s memory.

To share memories or offer condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Funeral Services:

Ellis J. Sanders was born in Eaton Rapids on November 9, 1932, and was the eldest son of John and Berthal Sanders. Surrounded by his loving family, he left this world to be reunited with his beloved wife Eva on January 13, 2025.

Ellis was a proud US Army veteran having served during the Korean War and earned the rank of Sergeant in the Army Corps of Engineers. While on leave, Ellis and Eva tied the knot on March 19, 1953, and were happily married for 68 years. Their marriage served as a shining example for everyone who knew them. Ellis worked at GM as a supervisor and retired in 1986. Friends and co-workers from GM will remember the annual pig roasts at their cottage in Walhalla, where there were good times, good food and lots of beer. After retirement, Ellis teamed up with his brother Norm to provide landscaping and lawn maintenance services to the community and helped with home remodeling and repair projects to those who needed a hand.

In his spare time, Ellis loved golfing with his buddies, meeting friends for coffee to solve the world’s problems and looked forward to deer hunting. A true sportsman and firearms expert, he bagged his last deer at the young age of 91. He would jump at the chance to travel to be with family or friends and cherished those special times at Tallman and Loon Lakes, trips to California, Florida, Arizona and around the globe. He was a prolific storyteller and was happy to share his knowledge and experiences. His family and friends will hold close to their hearts his words of wisdom.

Ellis is survived by his children, Steve (Ann) Sanders, Rick (Jackie) Sanders, Julie (Jim) Hannon. Ellis was very proud of his grandchildren; Allison (Josh) Hummel, Jessica (Erik) Smith, Kelsey (Aaron) Look, Zach (Kasidy) Hannon, Stephanie (Jimmy) Wood, Grant Sanders (Haley Standage) and Gabrielle (Tyler) Witte. These grandchildren gave him 11 wonderful great-grandchildren: Owen & Blake Smith, Eva and Sutton Hannon, Chloe and Dakota Look, Holden and Parker Hummel, and James, Brooklyn and Logan Wood. He is also survived by his brother Norm and sister Evelynn (Doug) Stall, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and many dear friends.

A celebration of Ellis’ life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at the First United Methodist Church located at 600 S. Main Street in Eaton Rapids, with Pastor Melany Chalker officiating. The family will begin receiving friends and loved ones at 10:00 a.m. prior to the service. Arrangements entrusted to Vickers Leslie Funeral Home, 109 N. Church Street/PO Box 503, Leslie, MI 49251.517-878-6600.

Memorial contributions may be made to Eaton Rapids Public Schools, in memo please put “hunting and fishing class” and American Legion in Charlotte, MI. The family is serviced by Vickers Funeral Home-Leslie.

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Funeral Services:

Ruth Ann Halsey of Eaton Rapids, passed away February 6, 2025, at the age of 74. Ruth was born in Lansing, Michigan on April 1, 1950, daughter of the late Walter and Virginia (Martin) Byington. She married Calvin Halsey on July 7, 1972, and together they shared one son. Ruth worked as a professional clown for many years as well as working for Lockwood Elementary in Eaton Rapids. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Eaton Rapids and worked for their daycare, Small Blessings. Ruth enjoyed crafts, needlework and crocheting.

She is survived by her husband, Calvin Halsey Sr.; son, Calvin (Jennifer) Halsey Jr.; grandchildren, Masen, Annette and Amelia Halsey; brothers, Ken (Julie) Byington, Gerald (Kelly) Byington; sisters, Karen Lopez, Katherine (Rick) Keelan, Mary Ellen (Jack) Shue. Ruth was preceded in death by her parents and brother-in-law, Tom Lopez.

A private graveside service will be held. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Eaton Rapids in loving memory of Ruth Ann Halsey. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.