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Funeral Services:

Diane Sue Baum, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025, at the age of 77. She was born on October 18, 1947, in Charlotte, Michigan. Diane’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven from love, kindness, and a deep concern for others.

Graduating from Charlotte High School in 1965, Diane would go on to proudly work at numerous jobs throughout the community. She owned and operated the Dusty Rose Boutique in Charlotte, where her flair for fashion and her genuine warmth welcomed all who entered. Her boutique was not just a store; it was a sanctuary where friendships blossomed and where her kindness left a lasting impression on every customer. Diane had the remarkable ability to make people feel valued and understood, a true testament to her compassionate spirit.

Beyond her career, Diane was a passionate collector of Coca-Cola memorabilia, finding joy in the history and nostalgia behind each piece. Diane was also a magnificent cook, making every holiday meal feel like a cherished event. Christmas, in particular, held a special place in her heart, where she created a warm atmosphere brimming with love, laughter, and delicious feasts for her family.

Diane had an undeniable talent for sewing, crafting beautiful garments that displayed her creativity and skill. Her interests extended to jewelry, where she reveled in the beauty of various pieces, each with its own story to tell. Shopping was another joy for Diane, where she always found the perfect gift to share with loved ones, embodying her thoughtful nature.

Family was at the core of Diane’s being. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, cherishing every moment spent with them. Their laughter and smiles were the highlights of her days, and she took great pride in being a doting grandmother. One of her favorite traditions was her weekly evening dinners with her granddaughter Malorie—precious time filled with heartfelt conversation, laughter, and love. Diane also loved spending time at the family cabin near Higgins Lake, where the beauty of nature mirrored the warmth that surrounded her.

Diane is survived by her husband Jerry; sons, Michael (Cheri) Kiplinger, Darren (Cassandra) Kiplinger; step-sons, Todd (Shanda) Baum, Troy Baum; grandchildren, Michael “Mickey” Kiplinger, Kyle Kiplinger, Lane Kiplinger, Malorie Kiplinger; five great-grandchildren; sister, Toni (Steve) Wildern, and several nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Joyce Elaine Johnson; father, Gordon “Gordie” Johnson; and special aunt, Donna Johnson. 

Funeral services were held on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Laura Cooper officiating. The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Maple Hill Cemetery. 

Those desiring may make contributions in Diane’s memory to Shriners Children’s Hospitals at www.shrinerschildrens.org.

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Funeral Services:

Phillip Laverne Hebenstreit, age 72, of Olivet, passed away Friday, July 4, 2025. He was born December 25, 1952, in Battle Creek the son of Clarence and Martha (Pierce) Hebenstreit. Phil went on to graduate from Olivet High School in 1972. On August 29, 1981, he married Deanna Lynn Griffin in Charlotte. Phil enjoyed many things in life but his family was of the utmost importance to him. He enjoyed working with his hands and was always working on one project or the next. Phil could often be found working in his yard. But when he was not busy at home or work, he would be out hunting for his next treasure at local yard sales or Goodwill. Playing games was an enjoyable pastime for him and his family. Skip bo, Solitaire, and Yahtzee were a few of his favorites. 

Phil is survived by his wife of 43 years, Deanna; children, Cristina (Tony) Owens, Mathew (Sarah) Hebenstreit, Aaron Hebenstreit, Nathan Hebenstreit, Phillip Hebenstreit, Kristy (Scott) Huber, Kari (Chris) Aleman; grandchildren, Rebekah, Bethanie, Noah, Patricia, Emilie, Gracie, Faith; brother, Clarence “Butch” (Rebecca) Hebenstreit; sister, Peggy (Roger) Canterbury; sister-in-law, Iris Hebenstreit; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence Hebenstreit; mother and step-father, Martha and Mayn Cortright; and siblings, Sam Hebenstreit, Sally Moscoso, and Mike Hebenstreit. 

The family received friends for a time of visitation on Friday, July 11, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. 

Those desiring to make contributions in Phil’s memory may do so to the charity of their choice. 

To view Phil’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.

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Funeral Services:

Jack A. Wells (Jaws), 74, of Vermontville, MI passed away on February 15, 2025. He was born on July 20, 1950 to Kennth and Marianna (Russell) Wells. He enlisted into the Army at the age of 17 in 1967 serving in Germany and Vietnam until his honorable discharge in 1970. Upon his return he married the love of his life, Dorleen A. (Richardson), they had two children and many years together until her passing in December of 2022.

He worked many different jobs finally landing at Citizens Elevator, upon retiring he enjoyed times with his wife, family, and dog Stinker. He loved tending his yard. He was grumpy, loving, and always hardworking man and very proud of serving his country, and quietly loving all around him. He was also very proud of his family.

Jack is survived by his daughter, Janell (Wells) Smith; Son, Russell Wells; granddaughter, Karlee Wells; great granddaughter, Emelia Martinez; brother, Dennis (Donna) Wells; sister, Joyce Bristol; and sister-in-law, Patricia Wells.

He was preceded in death by his parents and parent-in-laws; brother, David Wells; brother-in-law, Jerry Bristol; and his favorite niece, Julie Parish.

Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers can be given to the family or your local VFW Post.

Memorial services will be held on July 21, 2025 at 3 p.m. at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Battle Creek, with a dinner following at 4 p.m. at Battle Creek Friends Church, 1305 Olive St., Battle Creek, MI 49014.

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Funeral Services:

We are saddened to share with you the passing of Marion Ellis Taylor, 87, most recently of Charlotte, Michigan. Marion was an employee of American One Credit Union of Jackson at the time of his retirement.  Prior to that, he was the President of State Employees Credit Union.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Hazel Grace (Farrand) Taylor Wichert (Ernie) and Rowatt Stewart Taylor; his eldest brother, Paul Taylor; his eldest sister, Pauline Taylor Weide Parsons (Melvin Weide) Richard Parsons; his brother, Malcolm; niece, Rebecca Potter; great nephew, Stewart Tiffany; brother and sister-in-law, Lawrence and Elaine Taylor; brother, Dean Taylor (Maxie); sister and brother-in law, Grace (Taylor) Sanderson and Richard Sanderson; and first wife Marilyn Leona (Moffet) Taylor.  

Marion has left behind his son, Mark Taylor (Mark Benjamin) and daughter, Melisia Taylor. Marion also leaves behind his current wife, Linda Kay (Hunt) Taylor; stepsons, Jamie Medler (Mary), Garret Medler (Cheryl), and Zachary Medler (Brandy); seven granddaughters; one grandson; one great-grandson; two great-granddaughters; sister-in-law, Evelyn (Malcolm) Taylor; brothers and sisters-in-law, Leif and Carol Carlson, Susan and Larry Weismiller, and Jeff and Kollen Hunt; along with his numerous nieces and nephews.

Marion, born in Lakeview in 1938, grew up on a farm in Blanchard and spent part of his youth in Greenville where he graduated from high school. He graduated from Ferris State Institute in 1960 with a degree in Accounting and Administration. He loved a good card game and along with his siblings, could be found in a heated competition.  

Marion was enlisted in the National Guard from 1961-1967 and loved being an MP with the 46th Military Police Company with the Provost Marshall Division. His credit union involvement began in 1965 when he started working at State Employees Credit Union. Marion’s credit union participation expanded to membership on the Lansing Chapter of Credit Union’s Executive Committee; he held various positions in the Michigan Credit Union League; additional positions with the Credit Union National Association, the Central Credit Union of Michigan Board of Directors, and the Association of State Employees Credit Unions. Marion also devoted time to his community by serving on the Lansing Zoning Board of Appeals, and The Beekman Center Shelter Workshop. In his free time, he enjoyed snowmobiling and boating, hunting and being at his cottage. In addition, Marion adored cruises with his wife Linda.  

Marion received several calls and visits from friends and former colleagues recently and for that, was very thankful for the caring shown. 

Friends are encouraged to support Marion’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation will be from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, July 18, 2025 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at Pray Funeral Home. 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 Marion’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 American Cancer Society.  The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Michael “Mike” O’Reilly Colegrove, of Charlotte, MI, died June 30, 2025 at the tender age of 35. Mike was the son of David and Donna Colegrove, a 2008 graduate of Charlotte High School, and a very loving young man that would do anything for people he cared about. Mike loved everything basketball, whether it was watching or playing, and he played for over ten years as a member of his Special Olympics basketball team. He also enjoyed drawing, going to the races with his dad, watching all kinds of sports (especially when his nieces or nephews were playing), and road trips with his family.  He was especially proud of being able to help on Mission Trips through First Baptist Church.

Mike is survived by his parents, David and Donna Colegrove; siblings, Sally (Tim) Steward, Melissa Perry, Rick (Jennifer) Colegrove, Faith Colegrove, Darien Colegrove, Brandon (Jenn) Colegrove, Karissa Colegrove; and many loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

Friends are encouraged to support Mike’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Monday, July 7, 12 noon – 2:00 p.m. with Funeral services following at 2:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Ryan Manning 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 Mike’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 Area 8 Special Olympics. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

John “Jack” Harry King, age 87, of Olivet, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home on July 4, 2025. He was born in Romeo, Michigan on June 21, 1938, to Henry and Irene King and at the age seven moved to Olivet, a place he would call home for the rest of his life. 

After serving in the United States Air Force, he was honorably discharged and in 1960, married Laura Ernsberger. Together they raised five children, creating a lifetime of memories. Taking classes and becoming a skilled auto mechanic, Jack operated King’s Auto Service for 40 years. He also served as a volunteer firefighter. He was a man who enjoyed the little things in life, morning coffee with friends, his bowling league, hunting, fishing, the thrill of a good hand at the blackjack table, but most of all traveling in his motorhome. 

Jack was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Laura; children, David (Patricia) King, Karen King, Judy King, Steve (Kathy) King, John King; grandchildren, Matthew, Miranda, Laura, Zachary, Evan; great-grandchildren, Harrison, Geneva, Raeya, Piper; as well as his brother and sister-in-law, James and Cleta King. 

Jack leaves a legacy of kindness, integrity, quiet strength and a life well lived. 

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

Those desiring may make contributions in Jack’s memory to Oaklawn Hospice, 13444 Preston Drive, Marshall, MI 49068.

Jack’s Final Journey

Jack wandered life on open roads

Where sunsets blaze and freedom flowed

From Mountain pass to ocean shore

Each mile he claimed, then sought one more

His home on wheels, his faithful guide

With dreams and stars along for the ride

No map could match his boundless zest

Each stop a place his soul could rest

Now wheels are still, but nor the flame

Jack’s spirit roams where skies proclaim

That journey’s end, but love goes on

In every dusk, in every dawn.

To view Jack’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:

Michael Allert Lokken, age 69 of Eaton Rapids, died July 5, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Michael was born July 9, 1955, in Eaton Rapids, Michigan to Allert Theodore and Doris J (Horning) Lokken. He worked as a machinist and maintenance director at several jobs, but for the last 25 years at Edgewater Apartments in Eaton Rapids until his health forced him into retirement. Michael was a true outdoorsman, he loved to fish in the morning, clean his catch in the afternoon and have it for dinner later that day. His wood carvings of canes were impressive, and he was known to be able to fix anything that was broken. He married Teresa Annette (Merriott) Menzer on July 30, 1997, at noon on a pontoon in the middle of Narrow Lake.

Michael is survived by his wife, Teresa Annette Menzer; children, Nicole Lokken, Michele Lokken, Erin Lokken, David Menzer, and Elizabeth Thornsbury; several grandchildren; brother, Timothy (Bonnie) Lokken. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Traci Underwood and Terri Bradley.

A Memorial Service will be held Monday, July 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel, 518 S. Main Street, Eaton Rapids, MI 48827. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. For those desiring, Memorial Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in loving memory of Michael Allert Lokken. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

John Daniel Creyts, age 51, of Charlotte, Michigan, passed away on June 30, 2025, due to heart failure and other ongoing health challenges. 

John was born on August 2, 1973 and raised in Charlotte and spent his life surrounded by the places and people he loved most. He had a kind spirit, a unique sense of humor, and a deep appreciation for life’ s simple pleasures. 

John had a lifelong love of music. He especially cherished the sounds of Johnny Cash, Marty Stuart, and big band legends like Glenn Miller. He played the drums and other instruments with joy and enthusiasm, often filling his home with rhythm and song. His favorite shows included The Price Is Right, Sanford and Son, and Frasier, and he rarely missed an episode. 

Every Saturday night was pizza night — a tradition he never grew tired of — and every Wednesday brought a trip to the bowling alley. John also had a soft spot for a chocolate Frosty from Wendy’ s and never passed up a chance to build something with his Lincoln Logs. 

John attended Meadowview Eaton Intermediate School and he was a graduate of Grand Ledge High School, completing his education at age 26. He worked for several years at Pizza Hut and was a proud helper on the family farm, where his favorite task was driving the empty wagons back out to the hayfield — a job he approached with steady dedication. 

He shared a deep bond with his beloved cat, Phineas-Jerry, and took great comfort in his companionship. 

John is survived by his parents, Jean and Daniel Creyts; his sister, Ruth Creyts; his brother-in-law; and his niece, who all loved him dearly and will miss him. 

A private family funeral will be held where he has been laid to rest at Hillside Cemetery, Delta Twp., Michigan. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John’ s honor to the University of Michigan-Sparrow Foundation, which is currently building a new mental health facility in Lansing — a cause close to the family’ s heart. To donate, please use the following link: uofmhealthsparrow.org/give and click on the “Behavioral Health Services” option. For online condolences please visit www.millsfuneral.com 

In tribute to John’ s wonderful life and spirit, the family shares the following poem by Kathy R. Wofford: 

The Gift of Special Children
God Blesses some with Special Children…
Who with the magic of their smile…
Have the power to touch our souls…
And make our lives worthwhile.
Sometimes God in all His wisdom…
Fulfills our very lives…
With a child who’ll truly capture….
Our heart quite by surprise.
A child who is always giving
Such unconditional love…
Unique and oh so precious
A gift from God above. 

Kathy R. Wofford 

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Funeral Services:

Thomas Patrick Kay, 78, of Wyoming, MI, formerly of Vermontville, died peacefully on Friday, June 27, 2025 with his son by his side. Tom was born November 15, 1946 in Lansing, the son of Paul Thomas and Doris Elizabeth (Healy) Kay. Tom enjoyed a happy childhood, participating in Boy Scouts, delivering newspapers, and attending Catholic Schools. He graduated from Msgr. John A. Gabriels High School (Lansing Catholic) in 1965 and briefly attended the seminary before deciding on another course in life. He went on to earn a bachelor degree in Management of Human Resources from Spring Arbor University and settled in St. Ignace, MI, where he started his career in Community Mental Health and opened his own health food store.

Tom married the love of his life, Linda Sue Baird, on February 4, 1978. Together they raised two sons, Brandon and Jonathon in Vermontville, MI. Tom was active in his son’s lives, serving as Scout Master and assistant basketball coach for their teams. As a family, the Kay’s enjoyed time in the outdoors, especially camping trips to the Upper Peninsula. Tom and Linda opened Natural Living Health Food Store on the West side of Lansing, which they owned and operated for 19 years together. All the while, Tom worked training and supporting mentally and physically challenged adults for the State of Michigan Community Mental Health. He retired after nearly 30 years.

Tom lived a life full of compassion. Throughout the years, he dedicated much of his time to humanitarian work, including co-founding Students for Migrant Workers, working with the church in serving the poor and needy in the Lansing migrant population. Many will remember Tom as a strong but gentle man who loved his family and devoted his life to the well-being of others.

Tom is survived by his son, Jonathon (Robin Meester) Kay; two grandchildren, Lillian and Jackson Kay; and several nieces, nephews, and extended family. He was predeceased by his wife, Linda Sue Kay in 2024; their beloved son, Brandon Kay in 2003; his brothers, Richard and Daniel Kay; and his parents.

Friends are encouraged to support Tom’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Memorial Services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 12, 2025 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, MI. The service 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 Tom’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to Community Mental Health Clinton Eaton Ingham at http://www.ceicmh.org/make-a-donation. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Cynthia “Cindy” Ann Hiser, a woman who was always up for an adventure, died on Tuesday, June 24, 2025

after a courageous battle with cancer. Cindy, 65, of Charlotte, was born June 7, 1960, the daughter of Paul and Phyllis (Walter) Binkowski. After graduating from Charlotte High School, Cindy began working in Customer Service. She worked for General Aluminum, Felpausch Party Store, Admiral, and most recently Shell. Cindy greeted everyone with a big smile and always had a joke to share. Hobbies that she enjoyed included doing plastic canvas, cross-stitching, playing Backgammon, reading horror novels (especially Stephen King), camping, going to Rock and Roll concerts, trips to the sand dunes, and going putzing around town in her beloved ’78 blue Ford pickup. Above all, throughout her life, she loved the friendships she made and her daughter.   

Cindy is survived by her daughter, Rachelle Hiser; sisters, Cathy Bennett, and Paula (Kelly) Naber; nephews, Brandon and Jeremy Truax; niece, Shawn (Josh) Hose; great-nephews, Aleks and Ethan; great-niece, Maddianna; and close friends, Rose and Kelli. She was predeceased by her parents; and her brother-in-law, Mike Bennett. 

Friends are encouraged to support Cindy’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Funeral services were Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. Visitation was held just prior to the service from Noon until 2:00 p.m. 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 Cindy’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the family to help with funeral expenses. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.