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Funeral Services:

David Thomas Harold Frentress, 43, of Kalamazoo, a man of the outdoors and beloved son, brother and uncle, died on Friday, January 31, 2025, in Kalamazoo. David was born August 28th, 1981, the son of David and Brenda (Warden) Frentress in Lansing, MI. Growing up, David enjoyed fishing, especially fly fishing on the family’s lake lot. The family holds many fond memories of time around the bonfire with David, telling stories and enjoying nature. David graduated from Olivet High School in 2000, where he was a gifted athlete on the football and wrestling teams. He went on to attend Western Michigan University and worked in various positions throughout the Kalamazoo area. David was a die-hard Lions fan and loved watching the games with his friends and family. Although David didn’t have his own children, he adored his nieces and nephews. Above all else, David was a kindhearted person who always meant well and cared deeply for others. He will truly be missed and live in our hearts forever.

David is survived by his parents, Dave and Brenda Frentress; sister, Suzzette Camburn of Battle Creek; brothers, Jason (Anna) Frentress of Sweden, Darren (Rebecca) Frentress of Bellevue and Joseph (Marie) Frentress of Nevada; nieces and nephews, Willow, Sage, Lane, Luke, Hannah, Savanna, Zachery and Sebastian; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. He was predeceased by paternal and maternal grandparents and brother-in-law Ron Curtis.

Friends are encouraged to support David’s family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A memorial gathering was held on Thursday, February 6, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. with a brief memorial at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Don Francis officiating at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions may be made in his honor to the American Diabetes Association (diabetes.org). The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Cheryl Lee Sage, age 79, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 2, 2025. She was born July 26, 1945, in Lansing, the daughter of Gerald and Bette (Convis) Emede. Cheryl graduated form Charlotte High School with the Class of 1963. In her younger years she loved spending time riding and racing motorcycles. The Chevy Corvette was always Cheryl’s favorite car. She owned 8 different Corvette’s throughout the years. She also enjoyed frequenting the beach where she could soak in the sun. Cherly had a heart for cats and was affectionately known as the “Crazy Cat Lady”. Family was everything to Cheryl and she cherished spending time with those she loved most. Cheryl retired after over 30 years of faithful service from Michigan State University. She will be deeply missed by her family and countless friends.

Cheryl is survived by her daughter, Natalie (Paul) Petermann of Charlotte; granddaughter, Saige Petermann; brothers, Bill (Julie) Emede, Jim (Denise) Emede; sister-in-law, Linda Emede; aunt, Sharon Emede; Jeff (Jacque) Sage; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Gary Emede; sister, Susan Hendrick; nephew, James John Emede; and husband, Wayne Wilbur.

n keeping with Cheryl’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services will be held.

Those desiring may make contributions in Cheryl’s memory to Hospice of Lansing, 2411 Stoneleigh Drive, Lansing, MI 48910.

To view Cheryl’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:

Jeannie Kay Sherwood peacefully passed away following a seven-year battle of T-Cell Lymphoma surrounded by her loving family on January 30, 2025, in North Port, Florida. Born on May 21, 1952, in Kalamazoo, MI, Jeannie’s life was a testament to the power of kindness and dedication.

A proud graduate of Kalamazoo Central High School’s class of 1970, Jeannie furthered her education at Kalamazoo Valley Community College. Her commitment to helping others led her to a fulfilling career in nursing, which she passionately pursued for over three decades. Jeannie’s compassionate spirit touched the lives of countless individuals, providing comfort and care when they needed it most.

Jeannie’s love story with her devoted husband, Randy Sherwood, spanned 35 beautiful years. Their partnership was a source of strength and joy, not only to them but also to all who knew them. Together, they raised their daughters, Leslie (Kevin) Klimchak and Andrea (Cody) Hussey, and celebrated the milestones of their grandchildren: John “J” Pastras, Cruz and Max Hussey. Jeannie’s role as a grandmother extended to her step-grandchildren, Bethany, Allison, and Ryan Klimchak, who will forever cherish the warmth and wisdom she imparted.

Family was the cornerstone of Jeannie’s life, and she shared a special bond with her sister-in-law, Renee (J.D.) Ward; sister, Jeannette Pomeroy; and brothers, Frank “Bill” Ward III and Tom (Paula) Ward, as well as her best friend of 39 years Sue (Kremen) Bosworth. Her loving presence will be profoundly missed by her several nieces and nephews. Jeannie was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Mary (Culver) Ward II, and her beloved daughter, Andrea Hussey.

Jeannie’s zest for life extended well beyond her professional and family commitments, her hobbies reflected her appreciation for the beauty of nature and the simple pleasures of life. She found solace and joy in her garden, often spending hours nurturing her plants and flowers. Reading was another of Jeannie’s passions, providing her with endless knowledge and escapism. While wintering in North Port,FL Jeannie attended Living Waters Lutheran Church in Port Charlotte where she was recently baptized. The Florida sun allowed her to bask in the warmth while recharging her spirit. Jeannie’s love for the water was evident in her fondness for boating and sailing, activities that brought her immense happiness.

A Celebration of Life gathering will take place on June 14, 2025, from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. at Mills Funeral Home, Peters & Murray Chapel, 301 E. Jefferson St, Grand Ledge, MI 48837. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in loving memory of Jeannie Sherwood to the Capital Area Humane Society or Corso Care Hospice. For online condolences, please visit www.millsfuneral.com

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Funeral Services:

Larry Junior Anderson, a humble and caring man and friend to all, died February 4, 2025, at the age of 81. Larry was born in Charlotte on January 26, 1944, to Lewis “Curly” Anderson and Maxine McCallum. Larry had a gift of being able to relate to everyone, so easily that he made friends everywhere he went, and always remembered all the birthdays, anniversaries and special events in his friends’ and family’s lives. Some of the things he really enjoyed were pheasant hunting as a younger man; shooting pool (winning many trophies over the years); playing games with his kids and grandkids; fast cars; and helping others. His wife Donna was Larry’s true love, they were companions that truly enjoyed each other’s company and never had unkind words for one another.

Larry is survived by his children, Jeffrey (Mary), Lanae, Joni, Todd, Chad and Troy (Angie) Anderson; 15 grandchildren, Sierra (Clifford) Malloy, Haily Kuehn (John Michael Moore), Skyler (Karmen) Anderson, Hana (Dillon) Wedley, Peyton (Simon) Clark, Brooke (Chase DiSano) Anderson, Treven Anderson, Ellee Anderson, Adisen Anderson, Hayden Anderson, Blake (Brittany) Anderson, Brecken Anderson, Jace Anderson, Kayla Elders, and Amber Elders; 19 great-grandchildren, Kylee, Haily, Aubree, and Adalee Malloy; Ella, Layla and Harper Moore; Lulu Anderson; Bentley, Stetson, Paisley, and Maverick Clark; Emberlee and Ridge DiSanto; Myles Brabant; Mac, Charlie and River Anderson; and Mathias Anderson; brother, Charles (Judy) Anderson; brother-in-law, Dennis Moore, and sister-in-law, Nancy Paniccia-Bumgarner. He was preceded in death by his wife, Donna Marie Anderson in 2007; father, Lewis “Curly” Anderson; mother, Maxine Callahan; stepfather, Peter Callahan; brothers, Lonnie, Stuart, and Eddie Anderson; sister, Yvonne Moore; granddaughter, Kayla Jo Anderson; and grandson, Gage Anderson.

Friends are encouraged to support Larry’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Monday, February 10, 6-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services are Tuesday, February 11, 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Charles Jenson 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 Larry’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Barbara Jean LeSeney, age 83, of Charlotte, passed away Monday, February 3, 2025, at McLaren Hospital in Lansing. She was born March 8, 1941, in Marshall, Michigan, the daughter of Biron and Margaret (Patrick) Lavengood. Barb graduated from Charlotte High School in 1959. During her school years she enjoyed working at the Eaton Theater where she was affectionately known as the “Popcorn Girl”. On March 21, 1964, she married Ronald G. LeSeney in Charlotte. She then went on to work as a teller for Bank of Lansing and later retired from Comerica Bank after many years of service. Barb and Ron enjoyed playing golf together whenever possible. She also enjoyed bowling, knitting, reading, and her trips to the casino. Barb will be deeply missed by her loving family.

Barb is survived by her husband of 60 years, Ron; sons, Steven LeSeney of Lansing, Michael (Melanie) LeSeney of Lansing; grandchildren, Ryan LeSeney, Christopher LeSeney, great-grandson, Bryce LeSeney; great-granddaughter, Misti Miller; brother, Roger (Sue) Lavengood; and special family friend, Shawn Crisp.

She was preceded in death by her parents; granddaughter, Jennifer Miller; sister Sharon, and brother, Larry.

In keeping with Barb’s wishes cremation has taken place and no services will be held.

To view Barb’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:

James Harold “Jim” Gilpin of Eaton Rapids, passed away peacefully in his home January 8, 2025, at the age of 88. Jim was born on August 8, 1936. He was the seventh child of 11 born to Edna and Harold Gilpin. After graduating from Resurrection School in Lansing, Jim met the love of his life, Sheila Gooch. After a whirlwind romance, they were married on February 15, 1958. The two moved into their first home together in Potterville, MI, and in no time, they welcomed their first child, Toni Marie. Jim worked a few odd jobs during this time, saving for a bigger home. They welcomed their son, Troy, in 1962. In a few short years, the family moved into their home on Dexter in Eaton Rapids. Jim started his 43-year long career working at Eaton Stamping. During this time, he and Sheila began making plans for their forever home. After years of planning, saving, designing and building their dream was complete. Jim and Sheila moved into their home at the beginning of 1980. It was in this home they welcomed four grandchildren-Jessica Seguin, Meagan (Gilpin) McLouth, Nikolas Matthews and Kelsey (Matthews) Trosper. 10 great grandchildren and one great-great grandson.

Jim was known for his love of golf, his dedication to his yard and his ability to fix just about anything. But, for those of us who knew him best know he was so much more. He was a friend to talk to, a teacher, a man who tried to be tough and grumpy but always had his heart on his sleeve. He loved spending time with his grand kids and great grands. He could be found on the floor, playing with toys or being the family horse. Each child had their own unique memories with him but the one thing they all had in common was when they saw him, they would all visibly relax and would say “Pa” in the most calm and relaxed voice, as though they had just come from a day at the spa. He was their comfort, and they knew it.

Although we will all miss him dearly, we know he is finally at peace, away from pain and returned to his love, Sheila. They are taking care of their home, bantering back and forth, and watching over their family as they have always done, together.

Jim will be reunited with his wife, Sheila; his parents, Edna and Harold Gilpin; siblings, Ruth, Donna, Margaret, Mary, Leo, Bernard and Lowell. He is survived by his daughter, Toni (Gilpin) Matthews and son, Troy Gilpin; grandchildren, Jessica Seguin, Meagan (Gilpin) McLouth and her husband Randy, Nikolas Matthews, Kelsey (Matthews) Trosper and her husband Brandon; 10 great grandchildren and one great-great grandson; siblings, Mike Gilpin, Lois (Gilpin) Balog, Janet (Gilpin) Cousineau plus countless nieces and nephews as well as friends.

Services will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel. Visitation will take place one hour before the funeral. Memorial contributions may be made to the Craig Cartwright Memorial Fund, 2331 Country Club Way, Albion, MI 49224. A luncheon will be served afterwards at Robbins United Methodist Church, 6419 Bunker Road, Eaton Rapids, Michigan 48827. To leave condolences for the family, please visit our website, www.millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

Carl Dean Orr, 89, of Eaton Rapids, MI, peacefully went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. Born and raised in Eaton Rapids, Carl was the beloved son of Daryl and Arlene (Colestock) Orr.

He was a proud graduate of Eaton Rapids High School, Class of 1953, and went on to honorably serve in the Army National Guard while earning an associate degree from Lansing Community College. Carl’s dedication to his community was evident throughout his career, first working at Longs Elevator before serving as a maintenance supervisor for Eaton Rapids Public Schools, where he retired.

His life was one of faith, service, and generosity. Carl played a key role in establishing Boy Scout Troup 677 at First Baptist Church in Eaton Rapids, where he was the Scoutmaster. His calling to minister to others also led him to serve as a Prison Chaplain, spreading hope and faith to those in need. A devout member of First Baptist Church, Carl exemplified kindness and compassion in all aspects of his life centered around God and Family, Country and Community.

An avid outdoorsman, Carl’s love for nature began in his youth when he and his brother built a successful business trapping and selling furs. Hunting, fishing, and exploring the great outdoors brought him great joy. He also had a special appreciation for community gatherings. Frequently scouring the local paper to attend Swiss steak dinners, ice cream socials, or pancake breakfasts, and especially garage sales.

Carl was preceded in death by his loving wife, Roma Jeanne Orr; his parents; and siblings, Danny Orr and Elaine Skoczylas.

He is survived by his children, Daryl Orr, Jonathan (Julie) Orr, and Julieann Orr; grandchildren, Alex (Rachael) Orr, Abby (Josh) Soper, Mallory Orr, and Trey Orr. Great-grandchildren, Maverick and Elliott Orr, Hope and Lily Soper, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

A funeral service was held at Skinner Funeral Home on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. The family received visitors on Friday from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. and one hour prior to the service on Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Heart and Hands in Carl’s honor. To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Funeral Services:

On Monday, January 20, 2025, Phyllis Marie Rankin passed away peacefully, surrounded by her children. Born in Evart, Michigan on September 23, 1936, Phyllis lived a life dedicated to loving God, her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and others. As a devoted Christian, she has called Charlotte Free Methodist Church, now Discovery Fellowship, her church family for the past 62 years.
Phyllis graduated from Evart High School in 1955 and attended college at Michigan State University to become a Home Economics Teacher. She left school to marry Robert Thomas Rankin, Sr. in 1957. They were blessed with six children, and Phyllis was considered a second mom to all of her children’s friends and many in the neighborhood. Phyllis held various jobs throughout the years, and she received a Lifeguard Certificate, CASA Training Certificate, Cosmetology License from Burrell Institute, and earned two Associate Degrees from Lansing Community College in Business Marketing with Honors and Business Management with Honors.

Reaching out to her community, Phyllis helped with 4-H (sewing and gardening) and served as a Troop Leader for Campfire Girls. She also volunteered her time with CASA for Kids, the Charlotte Performing Arts Center, the Eaton Area Senior Center, and at her church. She was always ready to lend a helping hand and a listening ear.

Phyllis is survived by her six loving children: Corinne (Greg) Cooper, Robert Rankin, Tammie (Steven) Pickrell, Patricia Rankin, Alan (Dawn) Rankin, and Verna (Dara) Croze-Monajemi; 17 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren; sister, Janice Blank; sister-in-law, Bonnie Yarhouse; and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Vernie and Jessie Yarhouse; brothers, Vernie (Pete) Yarhouse and Richard Yarhouse; former husband, Robert Rankin, Sr.; Nancy Rankin, Dorothy Mahon, Elizabeth Rankin, Arlen Blank, Joseph Rankin, Jr., Conrad Kawel; granddaughter, Jessica Tate; grandson, Matthew Rankin; and son-in-law, Larry Robbins.

At the heart of Phyllis’ world was her family and friends, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Maybe that was why she was always smiling with her infectious smile.

Phyllis loved many things. She always looked forward to reading and studying the Bible with her Bible study groups. It brought her great joy to cook, bake, and deliver goodies and gifts to her family, friends, and neighbors. She loved to sing, play the piano and trombone, and listen to music of all kinds. Phyllis enjoyed sewing and helping others learn to sew. She loved traveling adventures, participating in activities, and supporting her loved ones at their events.

As we remember Phyllis Marie Rankin, we can imagine her Maker telling her, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” May the legacy she has left continue to bless and inspire us to live selfless lives full of smiles, grace, faith, strength, compassion, generosity, joy, and love for God and others.

A visitation was held at Pray Funeral Home (401 W. Seminary St., Charlotte, Michigan) on Friday, January 31, 2025, 5-7:00 p.m. and Saturday, February 1, at 10:00 a.m., prior to Phyllis’ Going Home Celebration at 11:00 a.m. There will be a gathering to follow at Eaton Area Senior Center (804 S. Cochran Ave.). Her Celebration will be webcast at www.PrayFuneral.com, click on Phyllis’ tribute page, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). Donations can be made to Discovery Fellowship Church.

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Funeral Services:

Kristine “Kris” “Grams” Henrys (Wyble), the best woman on the planet who would do anything for her family, went to be with Jesus on Thursday, January 23, 2025, after a short courageous battle with cancer. Kris, 65, of Charlotte, was born on Christmas Day in 1959 in Lansing, MI, the daughter of Norman Henrys and Dixie Hanks. She graduated from Charlotte High School class of 1978. On July 31, 1982, Kris married Thomas Wyble and together spent the next 27 years building their family and creating memories. Over the years Kris worked as a bus driver, as a farmer’s wife, but most importantly as a homemaker to take care of her family. She devoted her life to the Lord and was a very proud born-again Christian. Many will remember Kris for her contagious laugh, her recognizable whistle, her beautiful smile, and her love for others.

Kris was a jack of all trades, she enjoyed woodworking, doing arts and crafts, tending to her flowers and gardens, camping, spending time on the beach in Pentwater, and horseback riding. Her grandchildren meant the world to her. Grams could often be found playing Roblox with them, going on shopping adventures, playing games, watching movies, and just being in their presences. Above all she was proud that she taught her family how to love the Lord.

Kris is survived by her daughters, Lacy (Rico) Fuentes and Jamie (Justin) VanAlstine; seven grandchildren, Jaycee, Jayden, Carter, Drew, Maliah, and Harper; bonus son, Brandon Schultz, and his sons, Camden and Beckett; step mom, Loraine Henrys; siblings, Kimberly Baker, Sherri (Mike) Guerin, Heather (Steve) Hoye, Kevin (Pam) Henrys, and Keith Henrys; many loved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and extended family members and friends; best friend, Lorrie Tate; and her beloved dogs, Hank and Rodney. She was predeceased by her husband, Thomas Wyble; grandson, Kylen Rico; sister, Tonja Ballmer; mother, Dixie; and her father, Norman.

Friends are encouraged to support Kris’ family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 2-4:00 p.m. and 6-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral Services are Sunday, February 2, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home with Pastor Matt Rhode officiating. Burial will take place on Monday, February 3 at 11:00 a.m. at Kalamo Hillside Cemetery. 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 Kris’ tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Duanne G. Swift, 76, of La Crosse, Wisconsin passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, January 27, 2025. He was born in Charlotte, Michigan, on March 7, 1948, to Clayton and Hazel Hansbarger Swift.

Duanne proudly served in the U.S. Army from February 8, 1969, to February 7, 1971, achieving the rank of First Lieutenant. He served in Vietnam with the 25th Infantry Division, 12th Infantry Brigade, 2nd Battalion, earning multiple Bronze Stars and recognitions for his valor and dedication.

A natural leader, Duanne dedicated much of his professional career to strengthening local economies and business communities. He served as the President of the Chamber of Commerce in Alpena, MI; Grayling, MI; Midland, MI; and Green Bay, WI. His passion for fostering economic development extended nationally through his affiliation with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, where he played a key role in shaping future leaders in the field. He was a respected educator, teaching Chamber of Commerce leadership development courses at Notre Dame University, guiding chambers across the country in building stronger business communities. Beyond his leadership roles, Duanne also served as a consultant for Chambers of Commerce nationwide, helping them navigate transitions and strengthen their organizations.

Duanne’s influence reached even further through his work with the American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE), where he served in numerous leadership capacities, on its board, and ultimately as Vice Chair. His contributions helped shape the future of chamber leadership and economic development across the country.

Later in life, Duanne pursued his love of craftsmanship, founding his own business constructing Timberpeg homes, blending his appreciation for quality design and the natural world.

A true outdoorsman, Duanne found his greatest joy in nature. He was an avid bowhunter, fly fisherman, and camper, always seeking time in the woods or along the river. His knowledge of birds, plants, and flowers was unmatched, and he could identify them all with ease. His deep respect for conservation led to his involvement in wildlife preservation efforts, including wolf and bat conservation. Whether birdwatching in his backyard or trekking through the wilderness, he carried a profound connection to the natural world.

Duanne is survived by his beloved wife of over 30 years, Ann Swift (Macaux); his brother, Michael Swift; his children, Carey Schiller (Jeff) and Robert Swift (Courtney); his stepchildren, Sara Mogan, Nicholas Mitchell (Jennifer), and Natasia Mitchell (Tina); and 10 cherished grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clayton (1961), Hazel Swift and John Stearley (2009).

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Peter Noseworthy (Rochester), Dr. Abigail Deyo (La Crosse), Dr. Annette Faller (La Crosse), and the many EMS professionals who cared for Duanne with their whole hearts. Your compassion and dedication will always be remembered.

Funeral services with Military Honors will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 10, 2025, at the Oak Grove Cemetery Chapel, 1407 La Crosse Street. A visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.dickinsonfuneralhomes.com