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Janet Irene Carpenter, 87 of Charlotte, a quiet woman best known for her fresh baked bread, passed away on February 3, 2024. Janet was born December 16, 1936 in Charlotte, Michigan, to Maurice and Theda (Loveland) Devenbaugh. Janet was the oldest of her siblings, and she is the last of the Carpenter family generation. She worked with her mother Theda as a nurse’s aide in the maternity ward at St. Lawrence Hospital.

Janet was best known for her bread baking. She loved to bake bread and had used the same recipe since 1955. Her favorite was cocoa and toast, so when she served her bread, it was often accompanied by cocoa. Christmas gifts from Janet often were her homemade bread. Along with her homemade bread, her grandkids fondly remember the many different kinds of fresh baked cookies in her “green Tupperware container.” That was the first place they always went when arriving at her home.

Janet also loved to go to flea markets, yard sales, and on fishing trips with her her husband and friends, the Roystons and the McCrimmons. Even after double knee surgery, she never slowed down.

Janet was always proud of the fact that she raised three “well-maintained boys.” She was proud of her grandchildren and always looked forward to them coming over to visit. While the grandkids visited, she loved to do crafting projects with them.

Janet is survived by her son, Darryl (Deb) Carpenter; grandchildren, Matt Carpenter, Samantha Carpenter, Heather Ramsay, Dustin Carpenter, Derek Carpenter, Tina Brumm, Karen Granger, April Carpenter, Staci Mason, Jessica Roberts, Auzzie Jo Miller, and Angela Wandell; great-grandchildren, Trent, Treshawn, Jenna, Ashley, Zane, Harley, Devin, Cami, Haidyn, Holdyn, Caycee, Haylee, Donavan, Tabitha, Ricki, Braydon, Kaydance, Bradley, Giovonna, Wayne, Kayli, Reid, Teagan, Lainy, Ava, Mark, Adele, Thane, and Laith; 10 great-great-grandchildren; sisters, Norma Jean Sharp, June McIntire, Jolene McCullough, and Kolene Dubendorf; brothers, Jerry Devenbaugh and Joel Devenbaugh; and daughter-in-law, Marty Carpenter. She was preceded in death by her husband Bruce (Mick) Carpenter of 60 years in 2011, sons Brad and Steve Carpenter, brother Gary Devenbaugh, and her parents.

Friends are encouraged to support Janet’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services were Thursday, February 8, 2024, at 11 a.m. with Pastor Duane Royston officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Elara Hospice or Eaton Community Palliative Care. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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George W. Whitaker was born on February 19, 1938 in McGuffey, Ohio to Ollie and Clarinda (Williams) Whitaker. George was one of nine children in his family. George passed away on October 6, 2023 in Harlingen, Texas.
George attended elementary school in Springport, Michigan and then attended high school at Eaton Rapids High School in Eaton Rapids, Michigan.

George was married to Donis Ilene Iauch on June 27, 1959 at the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church in Charlotte, Michigan. Their first child, Julie Irene Whitaker, was born in 1960; Tamara Ilene Whitaker was born in 1963; and Eric George Whitaker was born in 1968. All three children were born at Hayes-Green-Beach Hospital in Charlotte. George and Donis’ first house was partially built by George and Donis’ father, Harold Iauch, at 2152 S. Cochran, Charlotte. They happily lived in this house and brought up their family here. After Donis’ mother, Mildred Iauch, passed away in 1986, George and Donis bought and redecorated her house and loved living there until 1994. At that time, they became permanent residents at River Bend Resort in Brownsville, Texas so that they could be closer to their children and grandchildren in Houston, Texas.

George’s first job was at Lawrence Bakery in Lansing, Michigan. He then worked for a foundation contractor in Lansing. After that, George worked for Fisher Body in Lansing, Michigan until he was laid off. He was then hired at Lindell Drop Forge in Lansing where he worked for 30 years before retiring.

George was an accomplished woodworker and made many pieces of furniture and other items for his family and friends. He loved gardening and had big gardens when he lived in Michigan and always had nice lawns with pretty flowers at their homes.

Burial will be at Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte in the summer of 2024, date to be determined.
George is survived by wife, Donis; children: Julie, Tammy, and Eric; grandchildren; and one great grandchild, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

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Marilyn Ann (Sumerix) Rutter, the rock of her family that kept everyone connected, died peacefully February 1, 2024 at her home in Olivet. Marilyn, 85, was born October 23, 1938 in Charlotte, MI to Henry and Ina (Baker) Sumerix. Marilyn married Charles Rutter in June of 1957, and together they had three children that grew up knowing the love of extended family because Marilyn always made family the heart of every adventure. For the last 20 years, Marilyn put together a Sumerix family newsletter to let everyone know what was happening within their large, extended family. Travel often included a stop at family members homes to say hi, and she loved to travel…visiting most of the 50 states in her lifetime. Her children and grandchildren will remember many trips with their family, including train trips West, and an annual family fishing trip to Canada.

Marilyn had a keen eye for detail, working as a secretary at Olivet Middle School, and had also been a proofreader for the Charlotte newspaper, The Republican Tribune, and she wrote a lot of poetry. With a big heart, Marilyn would often find ways to lend a helping hand in any way she could, and was always looking after friends and family. She loved to cook for large crowds, always cooking from scratch, and made a variety of wonderful pies for family gatherings. With an adventurous spirit, she even participated in a school donkey basketball game. Marilyn and Charles served as youth group leaders at the Brookfield Church for many years, and always put God’s love as the highest priority in life.

The greatest adventure of Marilyn’s life was family. She will be greatly missed by her children, Jacquelynn Kwiatkowski, Jeffrey (Katie Collier) Rutter, and James Rutter; grandchildren, Katelyn and Stephanie Kwiatkowski and Alex Schneider; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family members. She was predeceased by her husband, Charles Rutter in 2019; her siblings, Lyle Sumerix, Joyce Morgan, Betty Ross, and Harry Sumerix; and her parents.

Friends are encouraged to support Marilyn’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Tuesday, February 6, at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services were Wednesday, February 7, 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home with Rev. John Morse 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 Marilyn’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 Olivet Schools scholarship fund. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Jeffrey Richard Powell, a resident of Charlotte, MI, peacefully departed on Thursday, January 25, 2024, following a courageous battle against cancer, surrounded by his devoted family. Born on May 25, 1976, in Lansing, MI, Jeff was the beloved son of Dale and Lois (Brown) Powell. Though he spent a brief period in Gulliver in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, he was primarily raised in Charlotte, MI and proudly graduated from Maple Valley High School class of 1994.

A true outdoors enthusiast, Jeff found joy in hunting and fishing, embracing the beauty of nature. He leaves behind a lasting legacy in the hearts of his survivors, including his mother, Lois Powell, sister, Terri Powell, and brother, Bill Powell. Jeff was preceded in death by his father, Dale.

In honoring Jeff’s life, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be directed to the American Cancer Society. In accordance with his wishes, no formal services will be held for Jeff. Those who wish to share memories or offer condolences are invited to visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Roger Jeffrey Dibean, age 52, passed into heaven unexpectedly from a heart attack on December 2, 2023. He graduated from Grand Ledge High School, class of 1989. Roger attended Santa Fe Community College in Gainesville, Florida and graduated with an Associates Degree in business. He worked as a Banquet Manager at a Hilton Hotel in Gainesville, and later moved to Washington D.C. where he worked for Encore Global Events, an audiovisual company. Roger enjoyed taking his boat out on the Gulf of Mexico and fishing with friends. Roger was engaged to Pam Koops for two years.

He moved back to Hollywood, Florida and worked in the audiovisual department at St. Regis Hotel for several years, and two years ago moved to Colorado near Aspen, working at St. Regis Hotel in audiovisual services.

Richard is survived by his father, Richard J. (Jan) Dibean of Lake Placid, Florida; mother, Nancy (Badgley) Dibean of Charlotte; brother, Charles (Kristi) Dibean of Eagle, Michigan; sister, Sheri Patterson of Mason; nephews: Dustyn (Rachel) Patterson of Tucson, Arizona, Skyleir and son Jake of Tucson, Arizona, Emerson Dibean, Preston Dibean, and Wade Dibean of Eagle, Michigan; and niece, Sunshyne Patterson of Mason.

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Tim Alair Galvin passed into the next phase of his life at age 67 on January 28th 2024. His wife Lucy, his son Joshua and Joshua’s fiancé Jennifer as well as his beloved Vizsla Cayenne were at his side with the Doors playing. He will have many loved family members and friends to greet him as he moves on. His father and mother, Edsel (Ed) and Pauline (Polly) Galvin, aunts and uncles most especially his aunt Norma Klettke. He is survived by his wife Lucille (Lucy) Galvin, their son Joshua Galvin and grandson Vaughn Galvin. One brother Edsel Galvin Jr. and a niece, Jennifer (Galvin) Landris.

He graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1975 and since then has kept in contact with some classmates, reconnected with others as well as made some new friends.

Tim was retired from GM, he started work at Fisher Body in Lansing and retired from the Lansing Delta Township (LDT) plant.
After retirement he and his wife travelled some and took their dream trip to Alaska as well as Airventure and camping.
Tim found a hobby he loved and made some great friends along the way. RC flying became his passion; he was a member of C.A.R.D.S. and C.A.M.S. RC clubs and acquired many planes.

In lieu of gifts the family asks that you contribute to American Cancer Society, Ele’s Place or St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
Honoring Tim’s wishes, a small gathering of immediate family will be held at a place and time to be determined. The family may hold an outdoor gathering at a later date to celebrate his life and joys.

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Marvin John Baker, age 72, of Charlotte, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, January 16, 2024. He was born in Ionia, MI the son of Lyle and Pearl (Bowen) Baker. Marvin is survived by his son, Shane Matthew Baker; special friend, Esther Renault; sister, Susan Sutherland; and brother, Sam Baker.

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Johnny (John) Ray Wicker, 93 of Charlotte, went Home to Jesus Christ on January 24, 2024. John was born August 25, 1930, in Stantonville, TN. He spent his childhood there and in Gobler, MO, where he helped the family clear land with a mule, pick cotton, and worked with his local church, giving his life to Jesus at that time.

He met Joyce Young on a trip to Michigan. He was drafted, and they were married in 1951 as he went to England for the Korean War. Upon his return, they settled in the Lansing area and started their family while John was a welder at Fisher Body. He bought a garden tractor, and had so many requests for black dirt, sand, gravel and bulldozing that he quit Fisher Body and started a sand, gravel and excavating business, Wicker Inc., with Joyce handling the office. Upon retirement, they moved to Charlotte, where he developed a herd of Angus cattle, providing club calves for the local fairs. It was during this time that he rededicated his life to Christ.

John and Joyce enjoyed family, traveling, cattle shows and rodeos. They loved hosting gatherings at their farm with family, friends and church. His message to us all is, “I love my family. I had a beautiful wife, I worked hard to support my family and did the best I could. I am blessed by the Lord Jesus.”

John is survived by his children, Bethany (Robert) Delaney of Charlotte, Larry (Terri) Wicker of Eaton Rapids, John (Maureen) Wicker of Okemos, and Douglas (Mary) Wicker of Lansing; grandchildren, John (Jenna) Delaney, Christine (Adam) Graff , Josiah Delaney, Hannah Wicker, Rebekah (Nathan) Eagle, Michael Wicker, Samuel (Katelynn) Wicker, and Rachael (Josh) Ryan; great-grandchildren, Leon, Alice, Willa, JohnDavid and Forrest; step-grandchildren, Uriah (Marie) Clise, Isaiah (Shelley) Clise, Zech Clise, Amanda Miller, and Paula (Erick Buckner) Miller; and great-step-grandchildren, Collin, Liam, Ian and Brielle; siblings, Betty Christian, Lloyd (Sammie) Wicker, Shirley (Frank) Wright; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, Joyce; his parents, Ira and Jewel; and brothers, Floyd, Dee and Jack (JW).

Visitation was Sunday, January 28, at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte and Monday, January 29, at Oneida Gospel Church. Funeral services were Monday, January 29, 11:00 a.m. at Oneida Gospel Church, 3048 Strange Highway, Grand Ledge, with a luncheon following. Interment will take place at Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Oneida Gospel Church. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of John on his Tribute Page at www.PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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It is with both sadness and peace in our hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother Saundra Kay (Wells) Haas.
Sandy departed on her terms, as those who knew well would expect on January 19, 2024 at the age of 84 at The Eaton Community Palliative Care in Charlotte, MI.

Saundra was born in Charlotte, MI, September 15, 1939, the daughter of the late Geraldine “Gerry” and Fredrick “Louie” Wells. She was raised in the Vermontville area and attended local school graduating from Vermontville High School in 1957. After completing her education Sandy pursued a career as a Bank Teller with Michigan National Bank until 1961.

On April 10, 1960, Saundra was married to Mr. Arthur William Haas and the couple made their home together in the Vermontville area where they raised their family together. Art and Sandy enjoyed raising horses and supporting their girls in showing them.

Sandy was an avid Michigan State fan and loved her basketball. She was an active member of her community and was a member of the Vermontville General Federation of Women, #39’s Clubs, and was a past Treasurer of the Vermontville Cemetery.

Sandy is survived by her children, Kellie (Bruce) Hanford, Karen (Tony) Newton, Kimberly (John) Gray, grandchildren William (Jess) Newton, Peter Newton, Robert Hanford, Andrew Hanford, great granddaughter Vivienne Rose Newton, and her beloved furry babies Sophie and Dottie. She was preceded in death by her husband Arthur Haas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Eaton Community Palliative Care, Vermontville Historical Museum or the charity of the donor’s choice.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time.
The family will receive visitors, and a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 10, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. 3:00 p.m. at Daniels Funeral Home Nashville. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home – Nashville conveniently located at 9200 E. M79 Highway, Nashville, MI. For further details please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels.

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Funeral Services:

Debora Christine “Chris” Olson, age 59, of Ypsilanti, formerly of Charlotte, passed away peacefully into the loving arms of her Savior on Saturday, January 27, 2024. She was born January 23, 1965, in Lansing, the daughter of Earl and Linda Kathleen (Cary) Hackett. Chris graduated from Northridge High School in Middlebury, Indiana, with the Class of 1983. She went on to attend Ball State University where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in Nursing. On October 22, 1994, she married Timothy Olson. Chris developed a love of music when she was in the second grade. This passion followed her throughout her entire life. She played in numerous ensembles and churches over the years. She worked as a registered nurse for 10 years prior to getting married. After her and Tim’s marriage she took on the role of pastor’s wife and mother. These new roles brought her the most joy and fulfillment in life. Chris loved her Lord and Savior and was devoted to serving Him in all that she did.

Chris is survived by her children, Rebekah (Adam) Boston of Ypsilanti, Rachel Olson of Ypsilanti, James (Chloe) Olson of Venice, Florida; parents, Earl and Linda Hackett; siblings, Bryan Hackett, Jim Hackett; mother-in-law, Valerie Olson; sisters-in-law, Laura (Jerry) Houdek, Theresa (John) Schmidt, Sally Glazer; brothers-in-law, Tom (Maria) Olson, Mark Olson, Andy (Peggy) Olson, Dan (Katie) Olson, Pete (Pam) Olson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Tim Olson and sister-in-law, Patricia Olson.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, February 1, 2024, at 11 a.m. at First Lutheran Church with Pastor Sean Esterline officiating. A visitation was held on Wednesday from at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will follow at Maple Hill Cemetery.

Those desiring may make contributions in Chris’s memory to First Lutheran Church 550 E. Shepherd St., Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Chris’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.