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Dwight earned his angel wings on October 6, 2024. He was 77 years old. He was born and raised in Michigan. Dwight had a sharp sense of humor and had a never-ending supply of Dad Jokes. Before many significant health issues set in, he was an avid fisher and bowler, loved to cook and always welcomed a game of Cribbage.

Dwight was married to the love of his life, Claudia (Higbie) and together they had three children, Lisa, Rodney and Charles. Their love story was a little complicated, you see they married each other three times! For the rest of the story, well, you’ll have to talk to Claudia. Throughout their journey, four more children came into their lives, Robert, Peggy, Paula and Melissa. They shared a love for each one.

Dwight was loved by many and will be greatly missed but we are so thankful that he is now free of pain.

At his request there will not be a memorial service, however Claudia and the family would welcome any stories that you would like to share either via Facebook or by mail. Claudia can be reached via Facebook at Claudia Higbie-Payne or by mail at P.O. Box 1730, Prosser, WA 99350.

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Funeral Services:

Michael Allen Raby, 60, of Eaton Rapids, Michigan, entered into the arms of his Lord and Savior on Monday, October 21, 2024. Born on September 20, 1964, in Eaton Rapids, Michael grew up in the community he loved and graduated with the class of 1983. He worked in traveling janitorial services, cleaning retail stores throughout Michigan, and held roles as a prep cook at Don’s Truckstop in Dimondale and most recently at Dowding Industries.
Michael had a heart for helping others, always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need, no matter the time of day. His generosity and selflessness were evident in his volunteer work with Eaton Community Palliative Care, where he contributed his time to tasks such as mowing lawns, grocery shopping, and ensuring supplies were available. His dedication to serving others earned him the honor of Volunteer of the Year. Michael loved to stay active, but his greatest joy came from spending time with his family and friends. Whenever an opportunity presented itself, he would travel with his mother to hospice conferences and to hospital gift shop shows. Before his eyesight declined, he was like the song “on the road again”.

He was preceded in death by his father, Carl Kyser; father figure, Bud Schmidt; sisters, Renee Kyser and Elonda (Don) Watts; grandparents, Clarence and Marion Trombley; and his aunt and uncles, Carolyn and Bill Spiker, and Bill Gaunt.

Michael is survived by his mother and father figure, Margaret Kyser-Pike and Jim Pike; siblings, Mark Wilcox, Alan Schmidt, Paul (Linda) Schmidt, Charley Schmidt, Cheryl (Dave) Emerson; nieces and nephews, Alexa (Ben) Colestock, Alana (Tim) Ferris, Alissa Allen, Garrett (Amy) Schmidt, Shawna Schmidt, Grant Schmidt, Reid (Jenna) Schmidt, Micalyn (Ethan) Wilcox, Travis Wilcox; aunts and uncles, Kathryn (Joe) Pore, Loretta Gaunt, Mary Ann (Will) Miller, Vonnie (Bruce) Murdock; his dear friend, Missy Minaya; as well as many great-nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 27, 2024, at Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids Chapel. The family will receive visitors at the funeral home on Saturday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. and one hour prior to the service on Sunday. Interment will follow at Rosehill Cemetery, with a meal to be served at the funeral home afterward. The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at Eaton Community Palliative Care for their unwavering love and support throughout the years.

In honor of Michael’s memory, memorial contributions may be made to Eaton Community Palliative Care. To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Funeral Services:

Frances Rose Kirkpatrick of Lansing formerly of Eaton Rapids, passed away October 12, 2024, at the age of 98. Frances was born in Macomb, IL on April 27, 1926, the daughter of the late Louis and Rose (Twomey) Arnold. She married her high school sweetheart, Robert Kirkpatrick in December 1947. They came to Michigan and eventually settled down in Eaton Rapids in 1960. Frances worked for the Eaton Rapids Public Schools system for many years, primarily as a bookkeeper, and retired in 1986. Her commitment to her faith was unwavering. Frances was the longest standing member of St. Peter Catholic Church. Her love of music and her faith combined beautifully as she played the organ and sang in the church choir. In addition, she served as a member of the altar society.

Frances is survived by her children, David (Sharon) Kirkpatrick, Dr. Leslie (Donald) Reynolds, Kerry (Bruce) Linder, Julie Kirkpatrick; daughter-in-law, Bernice Kirkpatrick; grandchildren, Michael Reynolds, Paul (Sarah) Reynolds, Christina (Jeffrey) Breunsbach, Jessica (Robert) White, David (Brittany) Linder, Daniel (Samantha) Linder, Jules (Martyna) Febre, Alex Febre, Kevin (Cheri) Kirkpatrick, Robert (Karen) Kirkpatrick; great grandchildren, Drew, Lexi, Wyatt, Rosie, Anna, Caeleigh and Lydia Kirkpatrick, Caleb and Elliot Breunsbach, Kaiden Reynolds, Rio Febre, Eleanore and Theodore White, Ezra, Evalynne and Marseille Linder; four great-great grandchildren as well as several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Kirkpatrick; parents, Louis and Rose Arnold; son Richard Kirkpatrick; siblings, Leonard Arnold, Elaine Swanson, Monita Voellinger, Bernice Root, Joan Stadler.

A Funeral Mass was held at St. Peter Catholic Church on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. with visitation one hour prior. Visitation took place at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel Friday evening from 6-8:00 p.m. with a Rosary being prayed at 7:30 p.m. Interment took place in Rosehill Cemetery. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter Catholic Church, 515 E. Knight St., Eaton Rapids, MI 48827 or Hospice of Lansing, 3186 Pine Tree Road Ste. 1, Lansing, MI 48911 in loving memory of Frances Rose Kirkpatrick. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

Donald Ray Galloway of Eaton Rapids, passed away surrounded by his loved ones on October 22, 2024, at the age of 85. Don was born in Lansing, Michigan on March 26, 1939, the son of Raymond and Lois (Johnson) Galloway. He retired from General Motors and was a member of Hamlin Township Fire Department for 20 years. Don was an Eagle Scout and a member of Eaton Rapids Conservation Club. He also owned his own motorcycle shop, Doc’s Sick Cycle Shop from 1971-2007. He loved racing motorcycles. Over the years he dabbled in hill, enduro, ice and flat track racing. Some of Don’s other hobbies were hunting and fishing. He and his wife moved to Houghton Lake for a few years and enjoyed lake life. Don made sure he went out and fished at least every Wednesday so he could enjoy his Walleye. He was a very generous and giving man. Don was passionate about Safety Town and Heart and Hands in Eaton Rapids. He and Janet donated countless hours to helping others in the community.

Don is survived by his wife of 65 years, Janet Galloway; children, Kris Ann Elizabeth (Murl) Miller, Scott David (Patricia Cinz-Galloway) Galloway; 12 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren and seven great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Lois Galloway; son, Michael Galloway; sister Jacqueline Anderson.

Private family 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 Hamlin Township Fire Department. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

It is with both sorrow and celebration that we commemorate the life of Nathan G. Potter, a man whose courage and resilience were matched only by his loyalty and dedication. Nate was born on July 30, 1975, in Medford, Oregon, and later made his home in Georgetown Township, Michigan for 24 years. Nate’s life was a testament to the love of Jesus Christ, which was his guiding light and the cornerstone of his existence. His faith was echoed in the words of the Apostle Paul: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)

Nate stood as a beacon of strength and dedication in his professional role as a Safety Director in the construction and manufacturing industries. His commitment to creating a culture of safety and continuous improvement was unwavering over his 13+ years in the role. His dedication was not confined to his career. He cherished his family deeply, showing steadfast loyalty to his beloved wife, Jenny, whom he married on June 6, 1997. His enduring love extended to his children and his extended family, consistently placing their needs above his own.

When not occupied with his work or family, Nate found joy in camping, shooting, cooking on the grill or smoker and gun-building; hobbies that reflected his adventurous spirit and skillful hands. Yet, above all, he was known for his willingness to help others. Whether it was car repairs or offering a listening ear, he was always there, a resilient rock in the storm.

Nate is survived by his wife, Jenny Potter; his mother, LuAnn Klont, brother Nicholas England (Jillian), sister Nicole Johnson (Todd), step-brother Greg Klont (Audrey), his children, Kenneth Potter (Marcos), Haleigh Massey (Justin), and Ashley Schimizzi (Nicole), father and mother-in-law John and Judy Wiggins, sister-in-law Jessica Reeves (Zach); many loving nieces and nephews, and his favorite fur buddy, Leo. He was preceded in death by his stepfathers Bob England and Rodney Klont.

Nathan G. Potter was a man who lived his life fully, loved deeply, and always gave of himself to others. His legacy of love, courage, and dedication will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew him. We invite you to share your memories of Nate and upload photos to his memorial page at www.MichiganCremation.com to celebrate his life. His story is not just in the past but lives on in each of us.

Visitation with the family was from 10-11 a.m. on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at Georgetown Christian Fellowship, 3668 Port Sheldon Street, Hudsonville, where memorial services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday.  A luncheon will follow the ceremony.
Memorial contributions may be sent to All Things Possible Ministry at victormarx.com, or to Jenison Pink Out at jenisonpinkout.org.

Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006.

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Funeral Services:

On October 11, 2024, our Lord and Savior called a truly wonderful soul home. Dorthea May Tallman, or Mrs. T to her many students, 87, of Charlotte, MI, passed away peacefully, joining her beloved husband, John, who predeceased her after 55 years of marriage, and her son Scott, who left this world at a young age. While her passing leaves a space in our hearts, we are filled with gratitude and joy as we remember a life well-lived, bursting with laughter, love, wisdom, and if you knew her, a stubborn attitude that knew no bounds.

Dotty is survived by her children, Jeff (Kellie) Tallman and Jayne (Duane) DeMuth; grandchildren, Adam (Marysa) Fisher, Victoria DeMuth, and Gabriella DeMuth; great-grandchildren, Melody and Maverick Fisher; as well as her beloved nieces and nephews, Rick (Lee) Epler, Erika (Forrest) James, Mike (Angie) Epler, and Debbie Epler. She is preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Robert; nephews Robert and Paul; and many dogs who she also considered family.

Dorthea was born on February 28, 1937, to Virgil and Ida Epler, in Alma, Michigan, where she also attended college. Mrs. T quickly found her passion for teaching special education and never looked back. She spent nearly 50 years in the classroom, inspiring thousands of students within the Charlotte Public School System. She also spent many years teaching within the Eaton County Correctional Facility, helping children get their life back on track. Her students will remember her caring nature, quick wit, and dedication to their educational success. After her years of teaching, she ran into students wherever she went, even meeting one who was an Elvis impersonator at a show in Branson, Missouri.

Beyond the classroom, Dorthea was known for her ability to complete a word search book faster than Amazon Prime could deliver the next one, her love of animals of all variety, and her ability to cut the grass with paper sheers. She was known best however, for her love of friends and family, whom she cherished beyond words. For this author, she’ll be best remembered for her title of Grandmother, a role she was better at than anything else, and he considers himself beyond blessed for the role she played in his life.

A celebration of her life was held on Thursday, October 17, 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. Visitation was Wednesday, October 16, 6-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. All were welcome to come as they are, with stories, memories, and willingness to complete a word search in her honor. Instead of flowers, Mrs. T’s family requested that you consider donating to the Capital Area Humane Society, a cause close to her heart. The family would also like to extend a profound thank you to the care team at Hathaway Hills of Greenville, for their excellent care and support of Dotty over the last several months.

The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, MI. Friends and family are also welcome to share memories of Dorthea on her tribute page at www.PrayFuneral.com.

Though Dorthea has moved on to her next great adventure, her vibrant spirit and unwavering kindness will continue to inspire those she leaves behind. We find peace in knowing that she’s finally reunited with her husband and son for an eternity.  Rest easy Mom and Grandma and thank you for making our world a lot brighter.

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Funeral Services:

Gaylord Hugh Harris, age 91, of Olivet, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 13, 2024, at his home in Walton Township. He was born September 26, 1933, in Olivet the son of Hugh and Margaret (Ligget) Harris. Gaylord graduated from Olivet High School in 1951. Soon after graduation he was drafted into the United States Army and was honorably discharged after several faithful years of service. Gaylord enjoyed spending time working in his gardens around the house. When he wasn’t busy at home you could often find him fishing or hunting. Gaylord loved his family and will be dearly missed.

Gaylord is survived by his children, Ken (Paula) Harris of Olivet, Kevin Harris of Bellevue, Karen (Jeff) Montgomery of Charlotte; 11 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; sisters, Dorma Heisler and Myrna Schrontz.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Ardeth; and brother, Wayne Harris.

A private graveside service will be held at Bosworth Cemetery.

Those desiring may make contributions in Gaylord’s memory to Ainger Bible Church, 5484 Ainger Road, Olivet, MI 49076.
To view Gaylord’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com

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Funeral Services:

Raymond “Ray” Howard Bigford, a man who was known as the favorite for his sense of humor, died on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at the age of 83, Raymond of Charlotte, was born on June 19, 1941, to Albert and Ester (Johnson) Bigford, Sr. in Jackson, Michigan. He attended and graduated from High School from Laingsburg in the class of 1959. Ray was a familiar face at Olivet College serving as the Head Housekeeper beginning in 1986 and retired in 2008 and took great pride in the relationships over the years. On April 23, 1966, Ray married Dorothy Collins, and they enjoyed their 46 years together until her passing in 2012. In his younger years he enjoyed fishing and hunting. Each year he looked forward to the family rabbit and squirrel hunting adventures and Deer camp spent with the guys each year. Ray loved to bowl, participating in various bowling leagues, and enjoyed singing as well as playing his guitar. He was a faithful member of the former South Cochran Church of God in Charlotte. Ray loved reading his Bible and attending church each Sunday. Above all his biggest joy in life came from his family.

Raymond is survived by his daughter, Dawn McLeod; grandchildren, Heidi (Jonathon Wicker) McLeod, Krystal (Arynn) Moon, Raymond McLeod, Tyler (Shasta) McLeod; great-grandchildren, Raylen, Leon, Sondra, Joseph, and Taylor-Rose; siblings, Marilyn (Jan) Vantassel, David Bigford, Shirley (Thomas) Mahoney, and Albert Bigford Jr.; and numerous extended family members. He was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Dorothy; siblings, Bob Bigford, Frank Bigford, Terry Bigford, and Cathy Bigford.

Friends are encouraged to support Raymond’s family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Friday, October 11, 2024, from 4-7:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral Services were Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home with Rebecca Douglas officiating. Burial will take place in the Greenlawn Cemetery, Orland, Indiana. 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 Raymond’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 family payable to Pray Funeral Home to assist with funeral expenses. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Dennis “Denny” Charles Kennedy of Charlotte who loved all kinds of outdoor activities and was very active with many organizations, died October 10, 2024 at the age of 73. Denny was born April 11, 1951 in Lansing to John and Marie (Geller) Kennedy and was a graduate of O’Rafferty High School in Lansing. He worked for 42 years in security and sales consulting, with 33 years of increased sales awards, and retired in 2020. Denny was instrumental in starting Teens Encounter Christ (TEC) in the Lansing area, and was also very active in other organizations, including The American Quarter Horse Association, American Kennel Club, American Hardware Association, and Michigan Association of Security and Investigative Professionals.

With a big heart and a dry sense of humor, Denny was the type that was willing to try to do almost anything. Fishing, woodworking, landscaping his property, and traveling with his wife to show horses were some of the things he enjoyed most. He also had a passion for Michigan State sports, something that he learned from his father. A proud family man, Denny enjoyed supporting his wife and daughter show horses, and watching his son play football at Northern Michigan. He greatly enjoyed the family farm that we created piece by piece. Denny and Carol were also dog breeders, and he was right there to support Carol with each new litter.

Denny is survived by his wife, Carol; children, Henry (Sally) Bowman III, Wayne (Melissa) Kennedy, and Darlene Kennedy; and grandchildren, Jessica, Abigail, Joseph, Matthew, Emma, and David. He was predeceased by his parents.

Friends are encouraged to support the Kennedy family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Saturday, October 19, 2024, 10-11 a.m. at First Lutheran Church in Charlotte. Funeral services will follow the visitation at 11:00 a.m. at First Lutheran Church with Pastor Sean Esterline officiating. 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 Denny’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 Tunnel of Towers. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Darla Kay Brzezinski, of Charlotte, passed away unexpectedly on October 4, 2024, at her beloved Lake Leelanau where she spent so many happy days. She was 66. Darla was born in Germfask, Michigan and grew up in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and graduated from Newberry High School. After high school she began a dedicated career with the State of Michigan, first with the Liquor Control Commission and later with the Office of Retirement Benefits, before retiring in 2010.

Outgoing and friendly, Darla was the kind of person who could make anyone feel at ease. She was a “comfort person” — always thinking of others and ready to lend a hand. But those who knew Darla well also knew she had strong convictions and a straightforward way of expressing them. With Darla, there was no gray area — you always knew where she stood, and she wasn’t shy about speaking her mind.

In her younger years, Darla was quite the pool shark, earning both trophies and respect with her sharp eye and steady hand. It was in the late seventies, standing near a jukebox, that she met Dale, the love of her life. They were married in 1982 and went on to raise two sons, Jason and Michael, together. The family shared many camping trips to the family camp overlooking Lake Leelanau, where Darla’s love for the water blossomed. She adored life at the lake, spending long afternoons on the pontoon, flip-flops on her feet, watching the swans glide over the water.

After retirement, Darla and Dale traveled together, checking items off their bucket list. One of her most cherished memories was swimming with dolphins, an experience she described as pure joy, captivated by their grace and playful spirits. In more recent years, after grandchildren came along, Darla’s world revolved around them. She loved nothing more than spending time with her family, especially the little ones, watching them grow and creating memories to last a lifetime.

Darla also had a passion for Bingo, and in recent years, she and her dear friend Desi would travel to new destinations just to enjoy a good game. Her friendly competitive spirit and laughter made her a joy to be around.

Darla will always be remembered for her kindness, her fierce love as a mom, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and the countless lives she touched with her warmth and generosity. She leaves behind her loving husband Dale, her son Jason (and wife Natasha) and daughter-in-law Jessica, her grandchildren, Makala Coolidge, Jason Riley Brzezinski, Calie Brzezinski, Danny Paul Brzezinski, Zackery McKinley and Zoe McKinley; great-grandchildren, Hadley Coolidge and Adalynn Cordray; brother John Zitnik, sisters Lisa Johnson and Tera Fields and many cherished friends. Darla was preceded in death by her youngest son Michael in 2012.

Friends were encouraged to support Darla’s family at visitation Tuesday October 8, 2024, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. Guests were encouraged to stay for the Rosary at 7:30 p.m. which was followed by an evening Remembrance and Affirmation service where some of the family’s best stories of Darla were shared. Friends and family were also invited to join the Brzezinski family the next day for the Funeral Mass celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday October 9, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop Celebrating. For those unfamiliar with the Catholic Mass or Rosary, guides will be provided to help you follow along and understand the significance of each part.

If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to St. Mary Catholic School.

Family and friends are encouraged to share remembrances and condolences online in Darla’s Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com.
While Darla may no longer be with us, we’re sure she’s found the ultimate Bingo Hall up above — and knowing her, she’s already won the jackpot…BINGO!