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Funeral Services:

Duane Allen Whaley, 72, of Charlotte, MI, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 9, 2025. Born on May 17, 1952, in Michigan City, Indiana, he was the beloved son of Lyle and Beulah (Shepherd) Whaley.

Duane’s early years were spent in Michigan City, Ithaca, and Comstock Park, MI, where he graduated with the Class of 1970. He dedicated 41 years of his life to Meijer Warehouse, retiring as a respected forklift driver.

An avid sport shooting enthusiast, Duane had a passion for trapshooting and cowboy action shooting, serving as an instructor for both. He was a proud, longtime member of the Chief Okemos Gun Club, where he also held the position of President for two years. Duane cherished the great outdoors, enjoying hunting and fishing whenever he could.

Blessed with remarkable talent and skill, Duane had a knack for fixing just about anything. He was an accomplished woodworker who built his own home with his wife, Sharon, a testament to his craftsmanship and dedication.

Duane is survived by his devoted wife of 38 years, Sharon (Chaddock) Whaley; his loving children, Marcus (Kelley) Whaley and Dawn (Timothy) Hayes; his cherished grandchildren, Hunter Hayes, Vincent Hayes, and Michael Whaley; and his great-granddaughter, Leona Whaley. He is also survived by his brothers, Richard (Diane) Whaley and Douglas (Vicky) Whaley, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

In honor of Duane’s memory, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Funeral Services:

Daniel E. Gearhart, age 64, of Charlotte, MI died January 11, 2025 at his home. He was born November 6, 1960 in Charlotte, the son of Harvey and Shirley Gearhart. He was raised in Charlotte and attended Charlotte High School, graduating in 1979. He married Kelly Eldred on October 23, 1982.

Dan was a family man who had a love for the outdoors. He enjoyed bee keeping, camping in the mountains of Wyoming, and hunting, especially with his grandkids. He was a proud grandpa of five. He was present for every milestone and in the stands at every sporting event possible. His strength and love for his family was immense. His passing leaves a hole in our hearts, but we have a million memories that we will all hold close to our hearts.

Daniel is survived by his wife, Kelly; son, Michael Gearhart; daughters, Sarah Dahlem and Kristi Bullard; and grandkids, Abby, Caleb, Jasmine, Carson and Kaitlyn. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Shirley Gearhart.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 14, 2025 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. with a bonfire to follow at the home of his daughter, Kristi, 4245 Maple Grove Road, Hastings.

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Funeral Services:

William Frederick Foster, December 12, 1941 – January 1, 2025. God, in his almighty wisdom, called William (Bill) Frederick Foster, to his heavenly home on January 1, 2025. Husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather passed away quietly after a long-fought battle with cancer at the age of 83. His wife Joan, sons James and Philip and their children were at his side throughout his final days.

Bill was born on December 12, 1941, in Lansing, Michigan, the son of Earl L. and Elizabeth C. (Kloepfer) Foster. He attended Bretton Woods, a Delta Township grade school, C.W. Otto Middle School, J.W. Sexton High School and Lansing Community College.

Bill was a part-time mechanic at Stevens Garage in Delta Mills in his early years and in 1965 started working for REO Motor Car Company. After 10 years of working there, the then, Diamond Reo Truck bankrupted. By the fall of 1975, together with a group of ex-Reo personnel, Bill started to build trucks as a subsidiary of Form Rite in Charlotte, Michigan. A little over a year later, Bill, together with three (3) others, approached a group of Charlotte businessmen to back a small business loan to build Spartan Motors’ first plant building in Charlotte, Michigan. Bill would continue to build Spartan Motors through years of hard work, passion for the industry and perseverance serving as Vice-President and member of the Board of Directors for over 30 years.

Bill married Joan Westmoreland on June 17, 1967, at Emanual First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Lansing, MI. Together they had two sons while living in Delta Township where Bill served on the Delta Township Fire Department. He held many ranks up to and including Assistant Chief before retiring from active fire service after 27 years. In 1982, the family moved to Grand Ledge, where he lived for the remainder of his life.

Bill was passionate about firetrucks, fire safety vehicles and training firefighters and mechanics within the fire industry. However, he was also passionate about his family and his personal relationships with everyone he met. He loved spending time with his family and friends at their cottage in Sault Ste. Marie, watching iron ore freighters. He loved traveling and would always find a fantastic place to get wonderful food from coast to coast. If he knew you were going on a trip, he might even suggest a restaurant to visit while you were gone and tell you exactly how to get there.

He was also passionate about sharing his knowledge with anyone interested in the fire industry. Even after 60 years, until he would be hospitalized for a blood clot in the fall of 2023, he could be found driving a fire truck chassis to a fire show, sitting on the bumper telling stories while greeting his friends and customers while updating them on the newest Spartan Motors products.

Bill is survived by his wife of 57 years, Joan, their two sons James (Tammy) and Philip (Deborah), grandchildren Brooke (Rory), Joshua, Benjamin (fiancée Grace), Rebecca, Peter, Christopher, and Lynn, and great-granddaughter, Adelaide.

Christian funeral were held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at Emanuel First Evangelical Lutheran Church. Interment will be in Delta Center Cemetery. His family received friends at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m., Monday, January 6, 2025, and also at the church 1-hour prior to the funeral service on Tuesday. Memorial contributions may be made to Emanuel First Ev. Lutheran Church Restoration Fund.

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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 life is being planned for later this spring.

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Funeral Services:

Patsy Ann Hayhoe, of Eaton Rapids, MI, after a long and courageous battle against early-onset Alzheimer’s passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at the age of 71. Patsy was born on October 16, 1953, in Charlotte, the beloved daughter of Harold and Barbara (Purdy) Gillett.

She grew up in Kinneville, just outside Eaton Rapids, and was a proud graduate of Eaton Rapids High School, Class of 1971. Patsy dedicated 39 years of her career to the State of Michigan, working for the Secretary of State’s office before retiring in 2016.

A woman of faith, Patsy was an active member of Mt. Hope Church in Lansing for many years. She had a passion for travel, with a special love for Walt Disney World, which she visited many times, San Diego, CA and for Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, particularly Detour Village where she loved to spend time with her family at her beloved in-laws, Don and Dorene Hayhoe’s Cottage.

Patsy was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Barbara Gillett; her sisters, Darlene Romano and Sue Heaton; her granddaughter, Hannah Harris; her nephew, David Barres; and her father-in-law, Donavan Hayhoe.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband of 44 years, Doug Hayhoe; her children, Donavan (Clair) Hayhoe and Heather Harris; her cherished grandchildren, Kayla, Shyla, Tim, Victoria, and Corin; her siblings, Harold Gillett, Nina Barres, Marian Ward, and Robbin Gillett; mother-in-law, Dorene Hayhoe as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

At this time, no services are planned. To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Funeral Services:

Carol Ann Williams, 82, of Eaton Rapids, MI, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, January 1, 2025. She was born on August 2, 1942, in Corunna, MI, to Howard and Isabelle (Foster) Slaght. Carol spent her early years in Indian River, MI, before settling in Eaton Rapids, where she graduated with the class of 1960.

Carol dedicated more than 20 years to Eaton Rapids Public Schools, retiring as the secretary for the intermediate school. In her retirement, she remained deeply engaged with her community. She served as treasurer of the Eaton Rapids Historical Society, was an active member of the First United Methodist Church, BPW, Junior Women’s Club, and participated in a weekly golf league at Bonnie View Golf Course. Carol found joy in her monthly bridge gatherings and dedicated many years as a valued volunteer for the Eaton Rapids Township Elections. She cherished her coffee gatherings with high school friends, traveling with her beloved husband, Keith, and supporting her grandchildren, nieces, and nephews at their sporting events.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, her stepfather Floyd Ferris, and her sister Joyce Comer. She leaves behind her husband, Keith Williams; daughter Shawn Morgan; son Tony (Nicole) Williams; grandchildren Michael Morgan, Rachel Morgan, Keith Morgan, Hunter Williams, and Garrett Williams; sister Jacki Worden; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Chuck and Phyllis Williams; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and friends.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. The family welcomed visitors on Monday, January 6, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. and 6:00–8:00 p.m., as well as one hour prior to the service on Tuesday.
Memorial contributions in Carol’s honor may be made to the Eaton Rapids Historical Society. To share memories or express condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Funeral Services:

Janet Marie Harkness, age 90, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 2, 2025. She was born on June 6, 1934, in Eaton Rapids, MI, to Jarious and Marguerite (Kendell) Slentz. Janet grew up in Eaton Rapids and graduated from Eaton Rapids High School with the Class of 1952.

Janet dedicated much of her career to serving others through her work at the State of Michigan’s School Employees Retirement System, retiring in 1987. A longtime member of the First Congregational Church, Janet found joy and purpose in her faith and church community.

She cherished the winters spent with her beloved husband, John, in Lakeland, Florida. Janet was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, always treasuring time with her family. She especially enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s events, dining out with loved ones, and relaxing with a good Hallmark movie.

Janet is preceded in death by her parents, Jarious and Marguerite Slentz, and her husband, John Harkness. She is lovingly remembered by her children, Michael (Cindy) Harkness, Bruce (Katie) Harkness, Ann (Jeff) Vealey, and Kay Harkness; her grandchildren, Daniel Harkness, John (Elizabeth) Harkness, Benjamin Harkness, Christine (Kenny) Hwang, Angela (Zach) Lankton, Derek (Kate) Harkness, and Aaron (Amanda) Harkness; seven great-grandchildren; her brothers, Jerry Slentz and John Slentz; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

A celebration of Janet’s life will take place at 1:00 p.m. on May 10, 2025, at the First Congregational Church in Eaton Rapids. Memorial contributions may be made to the church in Janet’s memory. To share memories or offer condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Funeral Services:

Known for her kindness, generosity, and unique sense of humor, Patricia A. McCarthy dedicated her life to education and community service. She passed away on January 3, 2025, after a short illness, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and commitment to those around her.

Born in Rapid City, South Dakota, on February 25, 1945, Patricia was proud of her family’s resilience during challenging times in their small town. She graduated from Mount Marty College in Yankton, South Dakota, earning a degree in teaching. Patricia’s passion for education led her to teach at various public schools, including positions as a substitute teacher at Battle Creek Public Schools and as a teacher at Belleville Public Schools. She also shared her love for music as a music teacher.

An active and devoted member of St. Mary Catholic Church and St. Philip Catholic Central Church, Patricia found joy in volunteering at the church thrift shop, participating in bible studies, and engaging with the Council of Catholic Women. Her faith and commitment to her church communities were evident in all she did.

An avid puzzle enthusiast and sports fan, she enjoyed attending semi-pro basketball games and cherished the fellowship these activities brought. Her outgoing nature and ability to make friends easily endeared her to many.
Patricia met her husband, James McCarthy, through a local singles group. Together, they built a life rooted in love and mutual support. She is survived by her son, Shawn Levi McCarthy; sister-in-law Kathleen Kiellman; nephews, Alan and Dan Ryan; cousins, Jane Smith Gorman and Sam Smith; and dear friends, Virginia Hendrickson, Ron Petty, and Sondra Petty. She was preceded in death by her parents, Francis M Ryan and Mary Ryan; her brother, James Ryan; sister-in-law, Shirley Ryan; and grandfather, Edward Ryan.

Friends are encouraged to support Patricia’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A memorial service was held on January 9, 2025, at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Visitation took place from 9 to 11:00 a.m., followed by the Memorial Service at 11 a.m. with Fr. Dwight Ezop 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 Patricia’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Mary Catholic Church or St. Philip Catholic Central Church, reflecting Patricia’s deep connection to her faith and community. The family is in care of Pray Funeral Home.

Patricia’s generous spirit and dedication to service have left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She will be remembered for her unwavering commitment to uplifting others and her lasting impact on the community.

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Funeral Services:

Ellen Kay Dunn, 86 of Charlotte, passed into the presence of her savior, Jesus Christ, on January 6, 2025. Ellen was born in Charlotte to Lee and Leta Marie (Bottomley) Gingrich on March 9, 1938, growing up on the family farm and graduating from Charlotte High School. Ellen’s stories of her childhood will forever be remembered by her children; fun times she shared on the farm with her siblings Bob, Bonnie, and John, her friends Marilyn and Sharon, and classmates at Gresham school.

Ellen’s love for God began as a little girl attending Gresham Church. Ellen held steadfast in her devotion to God and loved to tell everybody about Him and the wonderful things in her life that were possible because of her relationship with Him. She became a member of First Baptist Church in Charlotte and appreciated the love and kindness shown to her by fellow members and Pastor Pete who often sent cards and visited her when she was no longer able to attend church. She also found comfort in listening to Bible Broadcasting Network daily when her vision became too impaired to read her Bible.

Ellen was a hard worker and found work fulfilling. She worked at Owens Illinois for 13 years, where she made many friends and met her husband Wayne Dunn who she described as the “handsomest man she had ever met.” Ellen and Wayne were married on December 20, 1969. Ellen went on to work as a Real Estate Agent at Charlotte Realtors and A and B Realty and found joy in helping families find and purchase their dream home. Ellen’s goal, however, was to become a psychologist. She did not let age, or any other barrier stand in her way. She completed her bachelor’s degree at Olivet College in 1991 and went on to obtain her Master’s from Western Michigan University in 2005. She worked as a Psychologist at Jackson Community Mental Health, Summit Pointe in Battle Creek, and at Bronson Battle Creek Hospital where she retired in her 70’s. A strong, independent woman with many talents, she also loved sewing clothes for her children, making over 300 garments for them over the years.

A devoted and loyal wife, she proudly took care of her husband Wayne in his final years. Ellen loved being a mother, and while stern, was also very loving and made her children feel loved and cherished in every way possible. As a grandmother she always wanted to be the first to hold a grandchild and enjoyed every moment possible with them. Ellen developed a love for Italy and the songs of Pavarotti over her lifetime and her daughter, Jane helped her fulfill a lifelong dream of traveling to Italy where they spent 15 days seeing the sights and making many cherished memories.

Ellen is survived by her children, Rob Thompson, Jane (Larry) Johnston, Gina (Ross) Himebaugh, Maria (John) Yeary, and Wes (Amy) Dunn; 20 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; sister-in-law, Kay Dawn Gingrich; and brother-in-law, Bob (Maxine) Dunn. She was predeceased by her husband, Wayne Dunn; brother and sister-in-law, Bob and Colleen Gingrich; sister, Bonnie LeDoux-Simek; brother, John Gingrich; infant brother, Walter Lee; nephews, Chris Ledoux and Tim Gingrich; and good friend, Alva Hall.

Ellen’s family would like to thank Hospice of Lansing and the staff at Country Living Senior Care in Portland for the excellent care they provided over the last year. Friends are encouraged to support Ellen’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Wednesday, January 8, 6-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services were Thursday, January 9, 2:30 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Pete Kroll officiating. The funeral was 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 Ellen’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 Bible Broadcasting Network or a charity of your choice. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.