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Funeral Services:

Robert “Bob” Justin Wood, a great storyteller and very talented man, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 16, 2025. Bob, 92, of Charlotte was born on July 16, 1932 in Battle Creek, Michigan, the son of Thomas and Agnes Fern (Arnold) Wood. Bob married Karen Sederlund on July 16, 1966.

Bob grew up quickly; having lost his father when he was 12-years-old he quit school soon afterwards and was granted a hardship driver’s license at age 13. He worked three different jobs to help support his mother and younger siblings; he instilled this same work ethic and sense of responsibility in his children. Feeling that education is important he later finished his education and eventually worked for the State of Michigan as a surface water quality investigator, where he retired from the DNR in 1994.

Never a dull moment with Bob, his interests and hobbies were many, including antique tractor and car restoration, antique clock restoration, fishing, hunting, gardening, nurturing fruit trees, riding motorcycles and snowmobiles. He passed down the enjoyment of many of his favorite pastimes to his children.

Bob and Karen owned a cabin within the Chippewa River Vista, where they could often be found over holidays and weekends enjoying and hosting family and friends. Bob loved all things nature and out-of-doors related.  

Bob never slowed down after retirement, he loved to be busy and had an excellent work ethic. His religion was very important to him, he was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Charlotte where he enjoyed serving on numerous committee positions and special projects.  He was also a lifelong member of the Kalamo Masonic Temple, a 3rd Degree Mason.

Antique tractor and car restoration was a passion, including the restoration of his 1941 Farmall BN, purchased in 1950 at the age of eighteen. He was a member of the Central Michigan Two-Cylinder Club. Bob and Karen enjoyed numerous trips in the MGB convertible that he diligently restored. Eventually, Bob and Karen started spending winters in Florida, making Englewood their home away from home where they quickly made new friends and became regular members of the Englewood Church of the Nazarene.

Bob is survived by his loving wife, Karen; children, Mike Wood, Sherry Wood Copenhaver, Dana Wood, Terry Wood, and Jon (Kim) Wood; grandchildren, Troy (Tonya) Pitcher, Shawn (Mike) Miller, Kristine Latchaw, Mark (Laura) Wood, Ashton (Chelsey) Wood, Brennon Wood (engaged to Paige Bird), Alexus (Joe) Wood-Anzaldua, Brooke Wood (engaged to Nick Burzycki), Jordan Wood, and Katelyn Wood; 21  great-grandchildren; nine great-great-grandchildren; sister, Lorna (Wood) Crawford; and a number of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a daughter, JulieAnna Wood; son, Matthew Wood; grandsons, Randy Pitcher and Skylar Wood; siblings, Dennis Wood, Larry Wood, Pauline (Wood) Webster, Sam Wood, and Thomas Wood Jr.

Friends are encouraged to support Bob’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Wednesday, March 19, 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services were Thursday, March 20, 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Pete Kroll 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 Bob’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 First Baptist Church Jamaican Mission Trips. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Elsie Elaine Wolever, 90, an active and energetic woman of Vermontville, died on Monday, March 10, 2025. Elsie was born April 11, 1943 in Vermontville, Michigan to Floyd and Margaret E. (Barber) Rounds. She proudly graduated from Vermontville High School as valedictorian. She married Lloyd A. Wolever, and they began their life adventure and family together. Elsie was a prominent Real Estate Broker in the Vermontville area and well known throughout the area. Elsie and Lloyd took in exchange students from Germany and maintained an active interest in keeping in touch with them. She enjoyed karaoke, singing and dancing, and the old car club. She had been active as a school mentor and a member of the Vermontville Women’s Club. As hobbies, Elsie enjoyed crocheting, painting and doing crafts, baking, and she loved to travel.

Elsie is survived by her children, Dawn M. (Steve) Conklin, Nancy E. (Larry Jensen) Wolever; grandchildren, Matthew (Ellen) Conklin, Curtis Felder, Jennifer Felder, Laci Jo (Steve) Weltsek, and Andrew (Brandie) Belen; eight great-grandchildren; sister, Ardean (Archie) Gonser; and daughter-in-law, Margaret Felder. She was predeceased by her husband, Lloyd A Wolever; her parents; seven sisters; one brother; and son, Ronald Felder.

Friends are encouraged to support Elsie’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Sunday, March 16 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. Funeral services are Monday, March 17 at 1:00 p.m. at the Vermontville Bible Church with Pastor Joe Benedict 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 Elsie’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 St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Barbara Orville Bodell, a woman with a need for speed, died on Monday, March 10, 2025. Barbara, 90, of Charlotte, was born on September 15, 1934 in Lansing, the daughter of Earl and Kressa (Calhoun) Brummette. Throughout her life Barbara held many titles, one being mom, another being bus driver (as she drove bus for Charlotte Public Schools for a number of years), also business owner (she proudly owned and operated ClyBar Inn in Charlotte), but most importantly the title grandmother was the most meaningful to Barbara. She absolutely loved being a grandma. Her love for speed came from her passion for riding motorcycles, racing midget cars, watching NASCAR, and also Motocross. Barbara also enjoyed arts and crafts, fishing, cooking, watching sports, especially the Detroit Lions, and above all strengthening her relationship with the Lord.

Barbara is survived by her children, Terry Pottruff, Bobbi (John) Bruder, Norma Stoecker, and Clyde “Champ” (Heather) Bodell; 11 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren; siblings, Doug (Jeanie) Brummette, Eddie (Marlene) Brummette, Shirley (Dick) Crosslin, and Beverly Geiser.  She was predeceased by her parents.

Friends are encouraged to support Barbara’s family by sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

William “Lee” Schumacher, 91, of Charlotte, a beloved coach, teacher, husband, father, and grandfather, died peacefully on Saturday, March 8, 2025 in Charlotte. Lee was born December 4, 1933 in Harbor Beach, MI, the son of John and Josephine (Kramer) Schumacher. Growing up, Lee loved to play sports, a passion that would shape his entire life. He earned his teaching degree from Central Michigan University before starting his career as a physical education teacher and coach. His first post was as football coach in Hillman, MI, where he earned a place in the local athletic hall of fame. He went on to St. Clair Shores, and eventually Olivet, MI, where he and his beloved wife, Edna, raised their family. Lee’s family remembers him always listening to sports on the AM station in the car and was always talking about the game! He taught driver’s education for over 40 years, and his beloved stature as “coach” led him to touch the lives of countless students, many of whom kept in touch with him to the very end.

In retirement, Lee loved time spent up at Long Lake in Hale, MI, where he loved to hunt and play cards with his friends and family. Lee’s social nature also led him to remain active in his later years. He sold Northrup King Seeds all over the area and delivered Meals on Wheels, both were perfect for his gregarious nature. Lee loved food. He was never late for dinner, and he even was known to engage his family in friendly “eating competitions.” Lee leaves a legacy of love and care for all he knew.

Lee is survived by his son, John Schumacher; daughters, Tama (Fred Wieting IV) Boucher, and Shyla Tailor; grandchildren, Jessica (Greg) Adamczyk, Julie (Jason) Baker, Rhiana Tailor and India Tailor; great-grandchildren, Cole, Emma, Jameson, and Carson. He was predeceased by his loving wife of 62 years, Edna Schumacher; his parents; and five siblings.

Friends are encouraged to support Lee’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. with a Rosary Service at 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 13, 2025 at Pray Funeral Home. Funeral services were at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 14, 2025 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. Interment will take place in Maple Hill Cemetery, Charlotte. The funeral was webcasted so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Lee’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 Olivet High School Athletic Department. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Bobbie Jo Heisler, a loving soul born on March 26, 1957, in Charlotte, Michigan, departed this world on February 26, 2025. She was a beacon of warmth and compassion whose presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A proud graduate of Charlotte High School class of 1975, Bobbie Jo went on to earn her associate’s degree from Lansing Community College, a testament to her dedication to education and personal growth. Her journey through life was marked by a genuine love for reading, a joy in coloring, and a keen interest in watching her favorite television shows. Bobbie also harbored a passion for collecting jewelry, each piece reflecting a story or a memory close to her heart. One of her most cherished pursuits was volunteering at the AA Fellowship Hall, where she spread kindness and support to those in need, embodying the very essence of community spirit.

Above all, Bobbie Jo adored her son, Blane, and daughter-in-law, Maggie, who brought her immeasurable joy and pride. Their bond was one of unconditional love, and they will carry her memory forward in the lives they continue to build together.

She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Schneckenberger; her dear mother, Helen Casey, and her stepdad, Jack Casey; and her brothers, Robert and Billy Schmunsler.

Bobbie Jo is survived by her son, Blane and daughter-in-law Maggie, as well as her longtime friend, Steve Spotts.

Those desiring to make contributions in Bobbie’s memory may do so by donating to Eaton Are Recovery, P.O. Box 243, Charlotte, MI 48813.

A celebration of Bobbie Jo’s life will be held on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the fu-neral home.

To view Bobbie Jo’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:

Karenlee (Walters) Hayward, 81, of Olivet, Michigan passed peacefully on March 8, 2025.

Born in Lansing, MI on October 29, 1943, the daughter of Robert Edwin Walters and Ilene Eleanor (Jennings) Walters, Karen was a lifelong resident of the greater Lansing area. She was a 1962 graduate of Lansing Everett High School. On August 30, 1963, Karen married Lucius “Lou” Octavious Hayward at the Pennway Church of God and God blessed them with over 61 years together. Karen was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Dennis “Buzz” Walters.

Karen’s surviving family includes her loving husband Lou, their five children, Mark (Carrie) Hayward of Lansing, MI; Scott (Debbie) Hayward of Grand Ledge, MI; Rob (Sharon) Hayward of West Lafayette, IN; Chad (Michelle) Hayward of Noblesville, IN; and Gina (Staci) Hayward of Olivet, MI. Sisters Sherry (John) Hunnell of Dimondale, MI and Jean (Edmundo) Rocha of Lansing, MI.

Karen’s kindness lives on in her twenty-one beloved grandchildren; Angelica (Ezekiel) Martinez, Christopher Hayward, MarkEdison Hayward, Joshua (Kelsey) Hayward, Jeffrey (Cali) Hayward, Britan Hayward and Danielle, Miranda (Kevin) Lutz, Kyle (Lauren) Hayward, Kevin (Ashley) Hayward, Madeline (Kyle) Sehgers, Mackenzie (Adam) McLaughlin, Kelsie Hayward and Kage Williams, Caroline Hayward, Ellerie Hayward, Liam Hayward, Russell (Alexis) Pliley, Brianna (Sam) Ryan, Bryce Pliley and Lauren Roberts, Rabecka Pliley and Gavin Clower, Megann Davis and Jake Henski, and Matthew Davis. Karen was also the proud great-grandmother of twenty.

Karen found joy in the simple melodies of life from the time spent at Pattengill Middle School in Pirates of Penzance, to the harmonies of her choirs, to the heartfelt tunes of Kenny Rogers, the Gaither Vocal Band, to her beloved Christian hymns, especially “How Great Thou Art.” Her collections of Coca-Cola memorabilia and Precious Moments figurines reflected a love for cher-ished keepsakes. She was an avid reader and enjoyed the challenge of puzzles and games. Karen also cherished the outdoors, particularly camping trips to Charlevoix and St. Louis camp meetings. Her loyal companion, Teddy, her beloved dog, and her many long-time friends brought her immense happiness. Her gentle spirit will be deeply missed.

Those desiring to make contributions in Karen’s memory may do so by donating to Divine Nest Assisted Living, 4887 Hull Rd., Leslie MI, 49251 or to Pennway Church of God, 1101 E. Cavanaugh Rd., Lansing, MI 48910.

The family received friends for a time of visitation at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home on Friday, March 14, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m., and for one hour prior to the memorial service Saturday morning. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Pennway Church of God, 1101 E. Cavanaugh Rd., Lansing, MI with Pastor Dave Perry officiating.

To view Karen’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

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Funeral Services:

Debra Suzanne Turner of Eaton Rapids passed away March 6, 2025, at the age of 74. Debra was born in Charlotte, MI on January 24, 1951, the daughter of Freeman and Luella (Root) Robinson. She was a graduate from Charlotte High School class of 1969. Debra was a secretary with the Eaton Rapids High School, retiring after 22 years of service. She loved playing all types of cards and enjoyed sewing and crocheting. Family was the center most important thing in her life. She loved spending time with them, especially her grandchildren.

Debra is survived by her daughters, Michele (Randy) Denman of Holt, Paige (Daniel) Emmons of Holt and step-daughter, Shantel (James) LoFiego of South Lyon; grandchildren, Emma Denman, Bailey LoFiego, Katie LoFiego, Foster Emmons; sister, Ginny Stuart of Holt; and her companion of 11 years, Stephen Shelden Sr. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Rexford Turner; brother, Timothy Robinson.

Graveside services will be held at Dimondale Cemetery, Tuesday, March 18, 2025, beginning at 12:00 p.m. Visitation will be held Monday, March 17, 2025, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023, or Gift of Life, 3861 Research Park Dr., Ann Arbor, MI 48108. To leave condolences for the family please visit our website, www.millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

Margaret Louise Andreas, 79, of Olivet, a hardworking and loving wife, mother, and grandmother, died peacefully on Saturday, March 8, 2025 in Charlotte. Margaret was born September 11, 1945 in Battle Creek, the daughter of Leslie Junior and Dorothy Ann (Fleming) Bracy. She graduated from Olivet High School in 1963 before going to work at State Farm Insurance, where she edited the company publication known as the “Big Mac.” Margaret married the love of her life, Thomas Andreas, on May 6, 1972, and the two happily raised two daughters. Later, after her children had grown, she went to work at Cornwell’s Turkeyville, where she was affectionately known as the “head turkey slinger.” Margaret could debone a turkey in mere seconds. Although she wouldn’t acknowledge it, Margaret was a very creative woman. She had a self-taught yet masterful way with a paintbrush and she enjoyed photography and scrapbooking with her daughters. She possessed an impressive collection of Precious Moments figurines and had the most beautiful penmanship. Margaret also enjoyed being outdoors tending her gardens and watching for hummingbirds.

Margaret is survived by her husband of nearly 53 years, Thomas Andreas; their daughter, Heather (Jarrett) Kreiner and Amber (Richard) Swan; five grandchildren, Jacob Chavez, Lauren Chavez, Blake Kreiner, Andrew Chavez and Brett Kreiner; her sister, Virginia Barrett; special niece, Laura Bracy; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents; brother, Daniel Bracy; and brother-in-law, Tom Barrett.

Friends are encouraged to support Margaret’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Funeral Services were held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, March 14, 2025 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Rev. Brock Peters officiating. Visitation will be from 12:00 noon – 2:00 p.m., just prior to the service. 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 Margaret’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contribu-tions to the Wounded Warriors Project, Parkinson’s Foundation, or the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Gerald “Jerry” Glenn Gilbert, 91, of Charlotte, Michigan, passed away on March 4, 2025 at his home in Charlotte. He was born on April 13, 1933 to Floyd and Alice (Towlsey) Gilbert in Manistee, MI. He graduated from Arcadia High School in 1952. Jerry served in the US Army during the Korean War. He worked for Oldsmobile in Lansing in the fix/repair department. On June 27, 1981 he married Virginia “Jean” Becerra at the Charlotte Methodist Church, and she preceded him in death on October 15, 2018.

Jerry really enjoyed watching sports, especially the Detroit Lions and Tigers, MSU basketball, football, and hockey. He enjoyed being outdoors, he liked to hunt and fish, and he loved to mow his grass. Jerry liked being with his friends and going to the casino, especially when he was winning, which was a lot. Jerry and Jean enjoyed traveling in their RV. He was a member of the St. Johns – Ovid Masonic Lodge #105 in St. Johns.

Jerry is survived by his children, Debra Loudenbeck of Perrinton, MI, Donna (Jim) Beaudrie of Manistee, MI, Laurie (Mick) Becker of Eagar, AZ, Glenn (Shannon) Gilbert, Jr. of Fowlerville, MI, stepson, Jim (Elaine) Salinas of Texas; God son, Christopher Sebastian; several grandchildren and great grandchildren; siblings, James (Joann) Gilbert, Joyce (Ed) Howard, Betty (Kenny) Fitzhugh, and Carroll Gilbert. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Linda Snater.

Visitation was held Monday, March 10, 2025, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. with the funeral service starting at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Devon Shepard officiating at Kempf Family Funeral & Cremation Services, Marshall, Michigan. Burial will take place in the Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in memory of Jerry are suggested to St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church, 212 Hanover St., Marshall, MI 49068 or McLaren Hospice, 2815 S. Pennsylvania Ave. Ste 4, Lansing, MI 48910.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services. Please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guestbook, to share memories and pictures with the family. 

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Funeral Services:

Barry Roger Canterbury Jr. and his wife Desiree Irene Canterbury, passed away together on March 4, 2025, as a result of a traffic accident. 

Barry, 58, was a great guy who was there for everyone, although he would rather be referred to as the “tough guy.” Barry was born in Charlotte to Barry Roger and Peggy Aileen (Hebenstreit) Canterbury. He was a devoted Christian, and very proud of his studies with the Forgotten Man Ministries. He enjoyed collecting Marvel Superheroes figures and comics and displayed his “knick-knacks.” He was employed by Tennaco Manufacturing in Marshall. He was able to make people laugh and did so often. Some of his favorite memories include the petting zoo with his kids and holding a python and feeding a baby tiger. His son shared that, “He was a great man, and I owe him my biggest respect and gratitude for teaching me how to be a man. He didn’t have to do that, but he loved strongly enough to do it anyway”. 

Desiree Irene Canterbury, 44, an outgoing chatterbox, passed away unexpectedly on March 4, 2025, at the age of 44. Desiree was born in Phoenix, Arizona to Donald and Carolyn (Pepper) Lorenz. She was very adventurous, willing to try anything once, and especially enjoyed traveling around the country with her family. Desiree also enjoyed crafts and making jewelry. Loving, sweet and kind, she never met a stranger. Desiree and Barry were married in 2017 and resided in Olivet, where she enjoyed family life.

Barry and Desiree were survived by their son Jesse Mayn Canterbury and their blended family by his sons, Henry William Paul Canterbury, Christian Canterbury, Cory Michael Frazier; her children, Raymond (Emily) Lorenz, Janessa Lorenz; grandchildren, Mason, Mary Jane, Zach, William, Alexander; Charlotte, Savannah, and Victoria Lorenz; his parents; Barry’s brother, Rick Canterbury. Desiree’s second mother Penny (Allen Hapeman) Byington; father, Donald (Shonda) Lorenz; siblings, Kenneth Lorenz, Scott Lorenz, Garret Lorenz, Trenton Lorenz, Timothy Biddleston, Royanna Peterson-Tyree, Crystal Biddleston, Yelena Weatherman, and Kara Lorenz; stepsiblings, Reyna Brown, Subrina (Scott) Woods, and J.T. Brown; grandmother Carole Hubbard; grandparents, Bill and Betty Draves; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Barry was predeceased by his brother, Jesse Mayn Canterbury; and his wife, Desiree. 

Desiree was predeceased by her husband, Barry; brothers Alex and Dameon Lorenz; mother Carolyn Berryhill; and grandmother Dona Shifflette; grandparents Phil and Peggy Byington and grandfather Curtis Alexander.

A Celebration of Life for Barry and Desiree will be held at a later date in Vermontville.

The family has suggested memorial contributions to the family to be applied to the funeral expenses for Barry and Desiree. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.