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Denise Ann Williams

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Denise Ann Williams “Grandma Cookie,” 64 of Charlotte, the glue that held her family together, died peacefully at home after a courageous battle with cancer on Monday, May 29, 2023. Denise was born July 9, 1958, in Charlotte, the fourth of five children of Max and Peggy (Parker) McConnell. Her parents both grew up as only children, so they wanted a big family, and not only did they have a large family, but they made family and friends the heart of everything. Whether it was making syrup on the McConnell Family Farm, summer trips in the station wagon to Houghton Lake where the McConnell, Kleinfelt and Wells families rented a house together, or simply the 20 minutes they would all sit down together for dinner every night with no distraction, the family was always doing things together. Growing up with family at the heart of everything, it’s no surprise that Denise continued many of these traditions and has a family that continues to show love and friendship to all they know.
Denise was a 1976 graduate of Olivet High School. She married young and had two sons, Jarrod and Anthony (Tony) Schultz. While some relationships don’t work out, there is often a bigger plan for our lives that we can’t predict and Denise met her second husband, Mark Williams and the two became inseparable. Mark and Denise were married January 18, 1990, in Las Vegas, and later added twin sons, Kevin and Kyle to their family. Denise’s family enjoyed the tradition that her mother had started, family meals every day where they would sit together for at least 20 minutes with no distractions and enjoy the delicious homemade meals she prepared (Denise was a fantastic cook). The family also enjoyed trips to Ludington to visit Denise’s mother and stepfather, Cedar Point adventures with nearly lifelong friend Shawn Beam, and camping trips with dear friends Roger and Diane Moening.
Some of Denise’s favorite activities included flannel Friday (or any opportunity to wear her favorite flannel shirt), spring syrup making at the McConnell Family Farm, bowling (she started in 1976 and belonged to the WIBC 600 club and USBC), playing softball (she was on a league for many years), golf, and family cornhole tournaments. Denise could often be found around town playing DJ trivia, DJ BINGO, helping with projects at the Eagles and American Legion, or just enjoying a beverage with friends. She had very fond memories of adventures that were made possible by their dear friend, Joe Kane, including flying around the country to work at auctions for JJ Kane, and a special trip to the Orange Bowl one year. Denise loved football and was a huge Michigan State fan, as well as the Kansas City Chiefs.
Denise is survived by her husband of 33 years, Mark Williams; sons, Jarrod (Koda Newland) Schultz; Anthony (Rachel) Schultz; Kevin (Kelsey) Williams; and Kyle (Jennelle Petras) Williams; eight grandchildren, Spencer (Brianna Truax) Schultz, Brayden Schultz, Brooke Schultz, Kayla Bailey, Dalton (Shy) Fraley, MiKayla Fraley, Gavin (Sierra Lunsford) Church, and Wynn Williams; great-granddaughter, Kynzlee Schultz; siblings, Randy (Karen Morehouse) McConnell, Debbie (Robert) Kinney, Jim McConnell, and Kent (Carrie) McConnell; many beloved nieces and nephews; step-father, Butch Hartley; her beloved JJ Kane family; and many extended family members. She was predeceased by her dad, Max McConnell in 1983 and mom, Peggy Hartley in 2019.
Friends are encouraged to support Denise’s family by attending services wearing your favorite flannel shirt for her Friday at 5 Party or by sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Friday, June 2, 2-5:00 p.m. at the Charlotte American Legion. Her Life Celebration followed at 5:00 p.m. at the American Legion with Daniel O. Sowles officiating. The service 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 Denise’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). Denise specifically requested no flowers, instead donations can be made to American Legion Post 42. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte. Denise had a special message to share with her friends and family, always remember, “Every day is a gift!” Her friends will tell you, the world is a better place because of the gift we had in our friendship with Denise.

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Carleton Sprinkle

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Carleton (Sprink) Sprinkle passed away Saturday, May 6, 2023 in Bradenton, Florida. He was born in Charlotte, Michigan, June 2, 1935, to Carl and Maybelle (Young) Sprinkle. In 1962 he married the love of his life, Marilyn (Hill) Sprinkle. Sprink grew up in Eaton Rapids, MI. With his family, he spent summers at Duck Lake. He graduated from Eaton Rapids High School Class of 1953. He furthered his education by attending Michigan State University. During that time, he had the privilege, as a bandsman in the Michigan State Marching Band, of going to play at their Rose Bowl game in 1956. MSU won! He was an avid Michigan State fan all his life. He later enlisted in the US Army, serving in Germany, where he played in an Army Band. When he returned stateside, he became an Insurance Adjuster working for many years for Auto Owners Insurance Company. Sprink was a member of Albion First United Methodist Church and a member of Kiwanis for 50 years. As a twelve-year-old he became a caddie at Duck Lake Country Club. This fostered his love for golf. Some of his 11 holes in one were at Duck Lake where he was a member for almost 50 years. Sprink and Marilyn were fortunate to spend many retirement winters in Palmetto, Florida.
Surviving to cherish his memory are his wife of 60 years, Marilyn, as well as their children: Susan (Jerry) Rugg and Stephen Sprinkle; grandchildren: Ashley (Derrick) Begley, and Andrew (Gabbie) Rugg; great grandchildren: Ryan, Bryson and A.J.; and sister: Linda Jaglois. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Maybelle Sprinkle, and his older sister, Barbara.
A Celebration of Sprink’s life will be held Sunday, June 11 at the Albion First United Methodist Church with visitation from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. and a service at 2:00 p.m. A gathering will be held at Duck Lake Country Club after the service. Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice.

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Charles Allen Cooper

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Charles Allen Cooper of Eaton Rapids, MI peacefully passed away on May 30, 2023, at the age of 73. Born on September 21, 1949, in Jackson, MI, Chuck spent his formative years in Eaton Rapids, where he attended Eaton Rapids High School class of 1967.
Chuck’s passion for music led him to become a member of the bands Paupers and the Illusionists. He was drafted into the United States Marine Corps where he proudly served from 1969 until 1971 and was a member of the Marine Corps football team.
After his military tenure, Chuck embarked on a 30- year career with General Motors. He was active with the Springport youth football program where he made a memorable impact on numerous kids throughout his time there.
During his retirement years, Chuck embraced the community of Kissimmee, FL. He actively participated in the local VFW, lending his support through funeral honors and volunteering for parade detail.
Chuck leaves behind his wife of nine years, Penny Cooper; his daughter, Nikki Cooper; his son, Gabe (Crystal) Cooper; one granddaughter, Hannah Jolls; brother, Lyle “Frank” (Lou) Cooper; sister, Patricia Andrews; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will forever treasure his memory.
A memorial visitation was held on Friday, June 2, 2023, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids Chapel. The family plans to organize a celebration of life in early July, with a specific date and time to be announced. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Rapids VFW Home in honor of Chuck. To share memories or leave online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Kenneth Gene Kowalk

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Kenneth Gene Kowalk of Eaton Rapids, passed away May 30, 2023, at the age of 78. He was born in Lansing, MI, December 9, 1944. Ken retired from GM in 2004 after 37 years, and was a master of all trades, including building houses and restoring cars. He was a member of the Falcon Club of America and the Fairlane Club of America.
Ken is survived by his wife, Dorothea Kowalk; son, Kenneth Kowalk of Waldorf, MD; siblings, Gretchen (Roy) Kunkel of Eaton Rapids, Brian Miller of Eaton Rapids, James (Carol) Miller of Eaton Rapids, Deborah Miller of Charlotte, Kurt Miller of Springport, Barrie (Stan) Latoski of Eaton Rapids, Yolanda Anicola of AL; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Jean Anicola and stepfather, Clare Miller.
Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel, 518 S. Main St. Eaton Rapids, MI 48827. Visitation will be Monday from 6-8 p.m. and Tuesday one hour prior to the service. Burial of cremated remains with full Military Honors will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Eaton Community Palliative Care, 2675 S. Cochran Rd., Charlotte, Mi 48813. To leave condolences for the family, please visit our website, www.millsfuneral.com.

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Martha Alice Proteau

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Martha “Marti” Alice (Powers) Proteau, 81, of Charlotte, died peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Sunday, May 21, 2023. Marti was born August 15, 1941, in a neighbor’s house in Lee Township, MI, the daughter of Lansing Ray and Jennovee (Williams) Powers. Martha grew up on Duck Lake, where she met the love her life at 10 years old, a boy named Robert Gene Proteau, who lived on the other side of the lake. They attended Olivet High School together as sweethearts, and after graduating in 1960 they married a few months later on July 17. They enjoyed 49 years together before he passed in 2009. Bob and “Myrtle Mae” (as Bob affectionately called her) raised four children, all of who survive her: Luann Shepherd, Debbra Heinze, Alan Proteau, and Peggy (Ray) Needham. Also surviving are six grandchildren, Jacki, Kimi, Sara, DJ, Samantha, and Jayde; and six great-grandchildren, Josh, Aiden, Lilly, Lorelei, Sawyer, and Ty. She is also survived by her special in-laws, Jim and Sheryl Proteau; special niece who took care of her, Janice Powers; and many other nieces and nephews.
Marti worked at Walmart in Charlotte for 28 ½ years before retiring a few years ago. “Miss Martha,” as she was affectionately known to shoppers and staff alike, served in many roles throughout her tenure, including Cashier and Customer Service Manager. She loved getting to go to work every day and shared her joy with all who encountered her. Many believed her to be the most hugged employee in the history of Walmart.
“Mom” made all of her family feel like the most import people in the world, a kindness that acquired her many additional honorary kids and grandkids who she loved unconditionally. She was one of ten children born to her parents, all of who predeceased her: Bethel, Gloria, Wayne, Melvin “Bub,” Betty Lou, Goldie, Lansing, Jakie, and Christina. She was also predeceased by her parents and her parents-in-law, Al and Marjorie Proteau.
Friends are encouraged to support Marti’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at Pray Funearl Home. Funeral services were on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, at Pray Funeral Home. 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 Marti’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). Memorial contributions may be made to the family in care of Debbra Heinze. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Eric Flancher

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Eric Flancher passed away on May 22, 2023, as the result of a tragic motorcycle accident with another vehicle. Born November 23, 1989, in Crystal Fall, Michigan, Eric grew up in Eaton Rapids and spent his early days equally involved in both academics and athletics – you would never know whether to look for him in the weight room or the library. He played varsity football in addition to running cross country and track (2008 state runner-up in the 4x800m relay). After graduating from ERHS top-10 in his class, Eric elected to serve his country in the United States Marine Corps. A member of the Lava Dogs (1st Battalion, 3rd Marines), his four years of service as a Machine Gunner included two combat tours in Afghanistan. Following his honorable discharge in 2012, Eric returned to the Lansing area to spend time with family and began working as a security guard at Sparrow Hospital. Having previously received his Associate Degree from Lansing Community College, Eric graduated with honors from Davenport University in December 2022, obtaining his Bachelor of Business Administration. He will be remembered as funny, charming, humble, and well-liked by all who knew him. Ever the ambassador of physical fitness, self-discipline, and education, Eric was a role model not only to all his siblings, but to everyone he met. If he wasn’t working out, you could find Eric reading a book, taking his cat Jameson for a walk, or playing Old School Runescape. He thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his family, hanging out with his many friends, and watching his favorite shows and streamers.
Eric leaves behind his mother, Jane (Scott) Paradis; father, Steven (Isabelle) Flancher; older sister, Stefanie; younger brothers, Jonathon (Samantha) and Nathan; step-siblings, Zach (Morgan) and Raquel Ray; uncles, Jim (Lori) Busakowski and Chet Busakowski; maternal grandmother, Carol Busakowski; and good friend, John (Kate) Szafranski.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Chester Busakowski and his paternal grandparents, Bruce and Theodora “Cookie” Flancher.
Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, June 1, 2023, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 807 St. Mary Blvd, Charlotte, MI 48813. Visitation will be Wednesday from 5-8 p.m. at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel, 518 S. Main St., Eaton Rapids, MI 48827, with a Rosary prayed at 7:30 p.m. Visitation will continue at the church Thursday from 10-11 a.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Vincent de Paul Charities at St. Mary’s Catholic Church or the Capital Area Humane Society. To leave condolences for the family, please visit our website, www.millsfuneral.com.

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Sharon Jeanne Williams

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Sharon Jeanne Williams of Eaton Rapids passed away April 21, 2023 at the age of 88. She was born in Lansing, Michigan, September 3, 1934, the daughter of Harold and Marion Owen. Sharon lived in Eaton Rapids, Michigan until she married the love of her life, Richard Williams, in 1951.
She attended Lansing Community College where she earned her nursing degree as an LPN in 1972. She was employed by Sparrow where she retired in 1996.
She was a devout Christian attending Pennway Church of God in Lansing until she moved to Apache Junction, Arizona, in 1998. There she attend3ed and was very active at Christian Community Church and Family of Faith Bible Church.
Sharon loved traveling, golf, bowling, singing in the church choir, crocheting, and last but not least, baseball.
She is survived by her children: son, Michael (Angela) Williams of Montrose, CO; daughter, Cheryl (Roger) Morrison of Eaton Rapids, MI; four grandchildren: Chad, Chelsea, Jessica, and Trisha; six great-grandchildren: Zach, Kensley, Lilly, Skylar, Harley, and Everly; brother, Tom Owen of Eaton Rapids; and many extended families.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Richard Williams; sister, Shari Clough; brothers, William Owen and David Owen; and granddaughter, Shena Esper.
A Graveside Memorial will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, June 16, 2023 at Maple Ridge Cemetery in Holt, Michigan.

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Betty Jane Gulliver

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Betty Jane Gulliver, 77, of Clarklake passed away from cancer, March 25, 2023 at Manatee Memorial, Bradenton, Florida. Betty’s family and friends will gather for visitation Thursday, June 1, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Eineder Funeral Homes – Brooklyn Chapel and Friday, June 2, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at Brooklyn Presbyterian Church. Her funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 2, 2023 at Brooklyn Presbyterian Church, 160 N. Main St., Brooklyn, Michigan. Pastor Tami Recob will officiate.
Betty was born on January 6, 1946, in Trenton, Michigan to Henry and Marion (Skidmore) Steward. She married her college sweetheart, Ted Gulliver, whom she met on a blind date at Western Michigan University, 55 years ago. She will be remembered as having lived a wonderful life. Betty attended Wyandotte Roosevelt High School where she was homecoming queen in her junior year. She earned her degree in Special Education from Western Michigan University where she belonged to the Delta Zeta sorority. Betty was like a mother to her special needs’ classroom; using her great personality to make her classroom one that the students loved. She had a knack for working with her classes. She took her “kids” to Michigan’s first Special Olympics, held in Kalamazoo in 1969. She continued to volunteer for the Special Olympics for many years. Her personality helped make her a good wife, caring and kind mother that had a terrific sense of humor and was a good role model. Betty continued to play in a golf league that started in Manchester over 60 years ago. She helped bring back the Columbia Central High School musicals and produced them for many years, providing another place for the students to learn and excel. Betty even acted in a few plays at the Potter Center with her husband and daughters. She made it fun for every group she was part of, such as her book club (who actually read the books); she volunteered with the local Red Cross for a time; the Red Hat group, The Universalist Unitarian Church of East Liberty, and she looked forward to Thirsty Thursdays and the comfort of old friends. She and her husband spent much of their recent years as caregivers for each of their two daughters. She was known to be a very kind and good friend. In her later years, she found a special “family” at her Winterset home in Palmetto, Florida where she loved to lead the decorating of the clubhouse for Christmas and to line dance. Betty was truly loved by all who knew her; and her brilliant, constant smile with eyes that truly sparkled will be greatly missed, especially by her husband Ted.
Betty is survived by her loving husband, Ted; sister, Marie (RC) Wallace; mother-in-law, Nina Gulliver; sisters-in-law Christine (Keith) Pople, Charna (Bob) Welch; brother-in-law Gary (Debbie) Gulliver; nephews, Mike Vick and Mark (Tammy) Vick, John Welch, Keith (Blerina) Pople, Zach (Kim) Gulliver, Nick Gulliver; nieces, Laura (Devin) Benford, Kim (Chad) Porter, Alexis Gulliver, and Jessica Gulliver. She is preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Marion Steward; and daughters, Anne Reed and Katie Clark. She will be remembered fondly by so many more, including the residents of Florida’s Winterset Resort, and Clark Lake residents, along with scores of Michigan friends, and her extended family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Universalist Unitarian Church of East Liberty, 2231 Jefferson Rd., Clarklake, MI 49234 or Educational Foundation for Columbia Schools, P.O. Box 126, Brooklyn, MI 49230. Please leave a message of comfort for Betty’s family or sign her guestbook at www.EinederFuneralHomes.com.

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Harold Alan Degner

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Harold Alan Degner, 75, of Dimondale, died on Saturday, May 20, 2023. Harold was born on October 14, 1947, in Lansing the son of Roy and Dorothy (Thompson) Degner. Upon graduating from high school Harold enlisted in the Air Force where he served during Vietnam, once he returned home, he would then serve in the Air National Guard. Harold worked as an Electrician for Fisher Body for 40 years before his retirement in 2007. He also was a volunteer fireman in Potterville for several years. In his free time Harold enjoyed watching westerns, target shooting, and being with his dogs. His biggest enjoyment in life was growing up on the family farm and being able to cruise around the property on his scooter.
Harold is survived by his son, Shawnn; grandchildren, Elizabeth, and Christopher; siblings, Jerry (Jamie) Degner, and Emma (Louie) Trowbridge; sister-in-law, Pat Degner; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents; and his brother, Roy Degner.
Friends are encouraged to support Harold’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 31, 2023, from 11 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. A graveside service will be held at 1:30 p.m. at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Lansing with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Wounded Warrior Project. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Ark J. Hampton

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Ark J. Hampton of Charlotte, a guy with a big heart and a big sense of humor, died May 15, 2023, at the age of 75. Ark was born April 14, 1948, in Prestonburg, KY to Benjamin and Vernie (Prater) Hampton. Ark served in the Army during Vietnam and returned to get an Associate degree. Over the years he held many different positions, including a salesman for Sundance Home Sales and the place he worked last, Northwest Tire. Always acting from the heart, Ark was often helping others and putting others first. He loved being a jokester too, sometimes over-the-top with his pranks and jokes but always with good humor. Ark was very proud of his family and encouraged his kids and grandkids in all they did. He always stood up for others, for what was right, and was willing to lend a hand and “just do it.”
Ark is survived by his wife, Connie Hampton; son, John (Carol) Moreno; daughters, Darla (Scott) Moreno-Ream and Brandy Moreno; grandchildren, Corey Rice, Matt Kreis, Danielle Wood, Dustin Rice, Garrett Rice, and Marissa Moreno; four great-grandchildren; siblings, Hershel Hubbard, Thomas Hampton, Ben Hampton, Chillie Hampton, Lucy Wright, and Sally Johnston. He was predeceased in death by his parents, Benjamin and Vernie Hampton.
Friends are encouraged to support Ark’s family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A Celebration of Life is being planned for a later date. If desired, memorial contributions are suggested to the family. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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