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Gerald C. Elliott

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Funeral Services:

Gerald Charles Elliott, a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, died Wednesday, March 31, 2021 surrounded by his family. Gerald, 90, of Potterville, was born May 11, 1930, in Battle Creek, MI, the son of James and Salina (Eakin) Elliott. He proudly served his country during the Korean War. Upon his return on May 22, 1953, he married Lala Reaves and together they spent the next 50 years creating their legacy together. Gerald worked at General Motors for 30 years, retiring in 1988. He also owned the Hill Top Trailer Park with his brother for 30 years. Gerald enjoyed going out and dancing with Lala, wintering in Frost Proof, Florida, watching his grandchildren play in the marching band. He was a generous man who created a scholarship fund for children attending community college. Above all he loved his family.
Gerald is survived by his daughters, Brenda Elliott, Diane (Roger) Moening, Dawn (Terry) Johnson, Sherry (Jeff) Humes; 11 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; sister, Maxine Wynegar. He was predeceased by his wife, Lala; 6 siblings; several extended family members; and his good friend Francis Arnold.
Friends are encouraged to support Gerald’s family. Funeral services are Friday, April 9, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home Gardens in Charlotte with Pastor Lloyd Scharer officiating. Visitation will take place two hours prior to the service from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Interment will take place at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Mask, group capacity, and distancing guidelines will be practiced. 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 Gerald’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 Eaton Area Humane Society. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Gerald on his Tribute Page at www.PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Jerry L. Franklin

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Funeral Services:

Jerry Lynn Franklin, kind, generous, sweet and always smiling, died March 23, 2021 at the age of 79. Jerry, of Dimondale, was born March 20, 1942 in Lansing to Garald C. and Beatrice (Carver) Franklin. Jerry loved to be part of the fun with his family. Camping, square dancing, cross-country skiing, belly dancing, hunting, and snowmobiling were a few of the activities shared. He was a member of the Chief Okemos Shooting Club. Jerry and his family enjoyed time together at their cottage on Houghton Lake, and wintered in Gulf Shores, Alabama. He knew everyone, and he was loved by everyone. If you knew him well, you knew that he loved Jif Peanut Butter on everything.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Connie; children, Bryon (Brenda) Franklin, Pamela (Timothy) Sibley, Melony Ann Fronckel; grandchildren, Stephanie, Timmy, Jessica, Christopher, Travis, Paige, Roxanna and Ryan, Jacob, Ashley; eight great-grandchildren; siblings, Eileen Fritts, Patricia (Robert) Green, Rex Franklin; sister-in-law, Kathy Franklin. He was predeceased by his first wife, Judy; brothers, Dewight (Sally) and Ronald Franklin; parents, brother-in-law, Bud Fritts; and sisters-in-law, Evelyn Franklin, and Kandy Franklin.
Friends are encouraged to support Jerry’s family by sharing memories on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com. A private family memorial service will be held at a later date. Special thanks to Fred and Dixie Robins, Carl and Debbie Collins, and the Dimondale Community for their support to the family. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or to The Eaton County Humane Society. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Maxine Crafton

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Funeral Services:

Maxine (McDaniel) Crafton of Eaton Rapids passed away March 28, 2021 at the age of 93. She was born in Fredonia, Kansas on February 29, 1928, the daughter of Oscar and Della (Mallonee) McDaniel. Maxine was a member of Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church and The Jean Bradford Kline Senior Center. She enjoyed baking, any type of needlework, vegetable gardening, playing games, including Bunco and occasionally Fire Keepers Casino.
Maxine is survived by her children, Darlene, Donald (Susan Ohmer), Ronald, Kenneth (Benita), and Mark (Beth) Crafton; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and sister, Marie Francka. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, John B. Crafton; brother, Nathan McDaniel and granddaughter, Christina Crafton.
Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 3, 2021 at Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church, 10500 Plains Rd., Eaton Rapids, with Pastor Mark Eckert officiating. Interment will follow in Rosehill Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to donor’s choice of charity in memory of Maxine Crafton. Online condolences and memories may be shared at millsfuneral.com.

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Jack G. Jesse

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Funeral Services:

Jack Glen Jesse, 74, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, after a five-year battle with metastatic prostate cancer on March 30, 2021. Jack leaves behind numerous friends and family members who loved him dearly.
He was born on July 3, 1946. Jack grew up to be a valued educator, receiving his BA and MS degrees from Michigan State University and his PhD in Counseling Psychology from Columbia Pacific University. He taught at four different mid-Michigan colleges, including Lansing Community College, Michigan State University, Great Lakes Bible College, and Sienna Heights University in the Graduate Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program. Jack was also a Clinical Social Worker in Charlotte, and Director of his own private practice, Ingham Behavioral Health and Healing (formerly Miracles Unlimited) in Lansing.
Jack was baptized as a young man and his relationship with Jesus Christ led him into a life of service. His family, friends, clients, and students benefitted from his servant’s heart, his endless energy, and his positive attitude, which was contagious. Jack was a forgiving man who always encouraged those he met. No matter their past, Jack always saw the best in people and valued them.
Jack had a multitude of interests. He loved animals, gardening, art, music, and he had a particular passion for writing and creating. He loved his family dearly and he wanted them to know that God and family were always his most important priorities, despite all his other accomplishments.
Jack is survived by his wife of 28 years, Elizabeth; children, Jaremy (Maureen), Heidi, Andrew (Kami), Cody, Chase; stepchildren, James (Krista), Heather, Michael (Lisa), Andrew (Erin), nine beautiful grandchildren; brother and sister-in-law, James and Jeanette Jesse; as well as nieces and nephews and many dear in-laws and friends.
Jack was preceded in death by his father and mother, James and Pauline (VanEvery) Jesse.
Jack will be cremated, and a private family service held at a later date. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to a homeless shelter of your choice in memory of Jack. To share memories or leave condolences please visit SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Joyce Y. Dunn Schmidt

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Funeral Services:

Joyce Yvonne Dunn Schmidt went home to Jesus on March 30, 2020 at the age of 83.
Joyce was born to Nora Louise and George Dunn on April 11, 1937 in Dermott, Ark. She met William Thomas Schmidt on a blind date in Memphis, Tenn. and immediately knew Tom was “the one.” Tom and Joyce were married for 59 years and had three children: David, Deborah, and Pamela. In addition to being a loving wife and mother, Joyce graduated from the Methodist Hospital School of Nursing in Memphis, Tennessee and was a Registered Nurse. She spent her professional career caring for people and was proud of her work. Throughout her entire life Joyce held an unwavering faith in God and in the spirit of her name, Joyce shared the joy of the Lord with all those who knew her. Joyce was a member of Church of the Nazarene in Eaton Rapids. She served her church in numerous other capacities by teaching Sunday school and being the director of Women’s ministry. Growing up, Joyce was an athlete and an amazing basketball player. Her hobbies included sewing quilts and caring for her house cactus plants. Joyce most enjoyed spending time with her husband and family.
Joyce joins her daughter Deborah Arnold and her parents George and Louise Dunn in Heaven. Joyce is survived by her husband, William Thomas Schmidt; son, David (wife Liz) Schmidt of Memphis, Tennessee and her daughter Pamela (husband Tony) McDaniel of Eaton Rapids. Joyce had twelve grandkids and five great-grand kids who were her pride and joy.
Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. on Friday, April 2, 2021 at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel, located at 518 S. Main St. in Eaton Rapids, with Pastor Harold Demott officiating. Interment will follow in Rosehill Cemetery. Visitation was held one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to The Church of the Nazarene, 2225 S Michigan Rd., Eaton Rapids, MI 48827, in memory of Joyce. To place online condolences or memories please visit millsfuneral.com.

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Tyrell A. Kennedy

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Funeral Services:

Tyrell Arthur Kennedy of Eaton Rapids passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 24, 2021 at the age of 38. Ty was born on March 3, 1983 in Lansing, the second son of Rhonda (Balzer) Kennedy and Todd Kennedy. He was raised in Eaton Rapids where he attended school and excelled in sports, playing varsity basketball and baseball for three years and graduating with the class of 2002. After high school Ty attended Ferris State University before joining the Army National Guard, his service included two separate tours to Iraq. He worked for Spartan Motors in Charlotte and most recently worked for Titleist in San Diego, Calif. Ty was passionate about golf and played numerous courses throughout Michigan, California, Arizona and Nevada. He was a loyal friend, brother, and son and would do anything for the people he cared about.
Ty is survived by his mother, Rhonda Kennedy of Eaton Rapids; brother, Thad (Jamie) Kennedy of Eaton Rapids; nieces, Hailey and Sophia Kennedy; aunts and uncles, Andy and Cindy Smith, Diane and Al Cooper, Stephanie and Jerry Platte and Ty, Kim, Karla and Kathy Kennedy and numerous cousins and friends.
A private family service was held on Thursday, April 1. To share memories or leave condolences please visit SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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John E. Glaspie

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Funeral Services:

John Edwin Glaspie, age 83, of Charlotte, passed away Sunday, March 21, 2021, in Lansing. He was born June 21, 1937, in Jackson, Mich., the son of Reeves and Ruby (Jones) Glaspie. John proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, raising mules and horses, and volunteering with many different organizations. He was a member of the Bi-Centennial Wagon Train Club, American Legion Post 42, VFW Post 2406, and the Legion Riders.
John is survived by his four children; 11 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Charlotte Glaspie; siblings, Marjorie (Norris) Howe, Phil Glaspie, and Richard (Marilyn) Glaspie.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Paulette; brother, David Glaspie; and sister, Carol (Bob) Murkowski.
A graveside service will be held on Monday, March 29, 2021, at 1 p.m. at Roseland Memorial Gardens, 3744 Brooklyn Road, Jackson, MI 49203. The family will receive friends on Monday from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.
Those desiring may make contributions in John’s memory to Special Olympics at specialolympics.org
To view John’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit burkhead-green-kilgo.com.

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Cheryl L. Franks

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Funeral Services:

Cheryl Lynn Franks, age 75, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully Saturday, March 20, 2021, at Golden Days AFC in Charlotte. She was born November 18, 1945, in Charlotte, the daughter of Kenneth and Hildred (Stevens) Bowser. Cheryl graduated from Charlotte High School with the class of 1963. Cheryl loved spending time with her grandchildren, traveling the world, her work at Olivet College for nearly 30 years, and her Adelphic Boys. She also enjoyed PBR Bull Riding and doing arts and crafts.
Cheryl is survived by her children, Steve (Karla) Weers of Dayton, Oh., Al Weers of Charlotte, honorary son, Ted Snow of Olivet; grandchildren, Richard Weers of Dayton, Oh., Stephanie Weers of Dayton, Oh.; sister, Sandra Rollins of Haynes City, Fla.; sister-in-law, Virginia Bowser of Charlotte; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Verlin Franks in 2013; and brother, Ron Bowser.
Funeral services were held on Thursday, March 25, 2021 at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Reverand Mike Fales officiating. For those desiring to view the service from a computer or mobile device, the service was livestreamed at listentochurch.com/listen/bgk. Interment took place at Bosworth Cemetery.
Those desiring, may make contributions in Cheryl’s honor to Heartland Hospice 865 South Cedar Street, Mason, MI 48854.
To view Cheryl’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit Burkhead-Green-Kilgo.com.

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John A. Platte

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Funeral Services:

John Anthony Platte, 80, of Charlotte, Mich., formerly of Lansing, passed away on March 20, 2021. He was born July 10, 1940 and raised in Westphalia, Mich., the son of Anthony John and Erma (Tillitson) Platte. John was a retired employee of the former Wolhert Corp. in Lansing, and worked for Springer’s Cleaners for around 15 years after retirement. He was a member of the Lansing Area Church of Christ; an avid bowler, and enjoyed traveling, camping and fishing.
John is survived by his wife of 14 years, Patricia; sons, Lloyd (Brenda), Michael, Robert (Julie), James (Beth); stepsons, David (Melissa) and Eric Grimwood; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents, first wife and mother of his sons, Georgianna Platte, and infant son Anthony John Platte.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, March 24, 2021 at Peters & Murray Funeral Home, Grand Ledge. Memorial contributions may be given in John’s name to be used according to the wishes of the family. Online condolences can be shared at petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com.

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Nathalie E. Weseman

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Funeral Services:

Nathalie Elizabeth Weseman, 99 years young, of Charlotte, a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, died March 19, 2021 at her home of 66 years. Nathalie Elizabeth Wensing was born to William and Helen (Stroot) Wensing on November 19, 1921. Soon after her birth, Nathalie’s father was diagnosed with a blood disease and passed away when she was only four years old. Being an only child, Nathalie determined at an early age to one day have a large family of her own.
A graduate of Notre Dame of Quincy High School, Nathalie later attended Quincy College, where she joined a sorority and developed an interest in drama, where she played Juliet in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. It was while a student at Quincy College, that she would meet the love of her life. One day, while buying a book from her sorority sister, Elizabeth, she was introduced to her very own Romeo, Elizabeth’s brother, Sid. From that moment on, Sid and Nathalie formed a bond that would last forever and shape both of their lives. Dancing together was one of their favorite pastimes.
When Sid signed up to serve in the Army Air Corps during WWII, Nathalie went to Iowa State where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree as a Dietitian. Nathalie and Sid wed on April 22, 1944, while Sid was on leave. Nathalie went on to intern at the University of Minnesota Hospital in Minneapolis as a Dietitian. She also worked at Electrical Equipment Supplier, Square D, managing food services for their facilities in Milwaukee. With the war over, Sid finished his schooling at Marquette, and the couple started a family. Several jobs, cities, and seven children later, Nathalie decided the frequent moves were getting too hard on the family and that Charlotte was a great place to live so they made it their permanent home.
Nathalie and Sid enjoyed many adventures together, traveling near and far. In later years, they arranged many vacations with the entire family and enjoyed annual winter trips to the Gulf Coast. While not exactly a thrill seeker, when in her 60’s, Nathalie rode the tallest roller coaster at Cedar Point. Despite not caring much for swimming, she always enjoyed summer outings to Yankee Springs, color tours up north, and an occasional pontoon outing or cruise.
Nathalie worked for many years at their convenience store where she was always a customer favorite and enjoyed serving the “regulars.” She greatly enjoyed being active locally, being a member of St. Mary Catholic Church since moving to Charlotte and the St. Mary Women’s Altar Society. She also worked on the Eaton County Election Commission after each election to certify the vote, was a frequent solicitor for The Easter Seal Society, and has been a 50-plus year member and former officer of the Charlotte Greater Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC), as well as singing with the GFWC Charlotte’s chorus. Nathalie greatly enjoyed hosting holiday gatherings with family and loved a lively game of bridge with close friends.
Nathalie was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Sid Weseman. Nathalie is survived by her children: Sid III (Nancy Sinclair) Weseman of Chicago, Ill., Marcus (Carolyn) Weseman of Knoxville, Tenn., Judith Weseman of Kenosha, Wis., Aimee (Michael) Chartrand of Palmer, Alaska, Matt (Katie) Weseman of Idaho Falls, Ind., Luke (Mary) Weseman of Allen, Texas, John (Lori) Weseman of Vermontville, Mich., as well as 14 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
Funeral mass was celebrated on Wednesday, March 24, 2021 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. The funeral was webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to PrayFuneral.com, click on Nathalie’s tribute, then click on photos and videos from your computer (or media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests instead of flowers that memorial contributions be made to the General Federation of Women’s Clubs. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Nathalie on her tribute page at PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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