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Funeral Services:

Percy Harold Watson, a beloved resident of Eaton Rapids, MI, passed away on Monday, July 22, 2024, at the age of 91. Born on May 24, 1933, in Marion, MI, Percy was the son of James and Fayetta (Oles) Watson. He grew up in Marion, graduating with the class of 1951.

Percy began his career as a meat cutter in Marion before enlisting in the United States Navy, where he served as a cook during the Korean War. His dedication to service spanned 44 years, encompassing both active duty and reserve roles. Professionally, Percy spent the majority of his life as a pipe fitter for Consumers Power, working in the oil fields. His industrious nature was evident when he built his own home in Hamilton, MI, handling all aspects of construction, including plumbing and electrical work.

In addition to his full-time job, Percy founded Watson Aviation, where he taught aspiring pilots and managed several rental properties over the years. He was also a passionate musician, teaching polka dancing and playing the harmonica with the Rose City Harmonica Club, performing at numerous community centers and living facilities.

Percy was deeply involved in his community, often assuming leadership roles in various organizations. He cherished vacationing, spending summers at Lake McCoy in Leroy, MI, and winters in Zephyrhills, FL. Percy was honored to serve as the Grand Marshal of the Eaton Rapids Fourth of July and Memorial Day parades five times.

Known for his outgoing personality, Percy had a unique ability to connect with people everywhere he went. He is survived by his loving wife of 16 months, Dorrie (Joslin) Watson; his daughters, Diane (Mark) Maxey and Donna (Randy) Newsome; his son, Danny (Natashia) Watson; and his grandchildren, Travis Newsome, Danial Watson, and Jake Watson. He is also survived by four stepchildren, 15 step-grandchildren, and 13 step-great-grandchildren. Percy was preceded in death by his first wife, Wanda Watson; his grandson, Jeremiah Newsome; and his sister, Blanch Loebrick.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at the First United Methodist Church in Eaton Rapids. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation in memory of Percy. To share memories or leave online condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Funeral Services:

Robert “Bob” Allan Seaks passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, July 18, 2024, at the age of 68. Born on May 9, 1956, in Eaton Rapids, he was the eldest child of Charles and Sonja (Miller) Seaks. Bob grew up in Eaton Rapids and graduated with the Class of 1974. He went on to attend Michigan State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in political science.

After graduating, Bob joined his parents, Chuck and Sonja, at Seaks Insurance in Eaton Rapids, where he worked for nearly 45 years. A passionate MSU athletics fan, Bob cherished his college years with the 1979 National Championship team. He traveled extensively with the team, forming lasting relationships with the coaching staff and players. Bob also attended the 1988 Rose Bowl, numerous Final Fours, Big Ten tournaments, and countless regular-season games across the country.

Bob’s love for travel was evident in his many trips to watch March Madness basketball in Las Vegas with his son, Caleb. He also visited Scotland with his wife, Bonnie, where they watched the 150th Open Championship at the Old Course in St. Andrews.

Known for his outgoing personality, Bob never met a stranger. He had a remarkable ability to remember names and enjoyed conversations with everyone he met. His passions included horse racing, music, especially smooth jazz, and animals, with a particular fondness for his beloved dog, Whisper. Bob also had an appreciation for fine dining and was a connoisseur of restaurants.

Above all, Bob was a devoted father, husband, son, and friend. His loss will be deeply felt by all who loved him, but his memory will live on in their hearts forever.

Bob is survived by his wife of 38 years, Bonnie Seaks; children, Caitlin (Colin) Finch, Briana (Brandon) Dykstra, and Caleb (Shelbi Rushing) Seaks; grandchildren, Asher, Jane, and Eden Dykstra; mother, Sonja Seaks; brother, Kevin Seaks; sisters, Lynn Seaks and Deb (Rick) Smith; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

A memorial service was held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, July 26, 2024, at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Haslett, MI, with visitation starting at 1:00 p.m. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to St. Luke Lutheran Church in memory of Bob. To share memories or leave online condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Funeral Services:

Dianne June Webb, age 75, of Charlotte, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, July 12, 2024. She was born January 4, 1949, in Charlotte the daughter of Thomas and Alice (Smith) Mills. Dianne will always be remembered as being a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She adored her family and each and every one was precious in her sight. Dianne took great pride in her flower gardens and enjoyed tending to them. She was an avid reader and enjoyed playing poker and other games with her family and friends.

Dianne is survived by her children, Regina (Greg) Winegar of Charlotte, Jon (Tina) Evert of Charlotte; grandchildren, Ashley (Joshua) Melton, Douglas Berry, Ciara Holder, Jordan (Erica) Valero; great-grandchildren, Courtney Thornberry, Elizabeth Thornberry, Eric Valero; siblings, Vicki Ball, Jacqueline (Jeff) Sage, Barbara Wells, Randy (Carla) Mills; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Douglas Mills, Donny Mills; brothers-in-law, Brian Ball, and Gary Wells.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, August 10, 2024, at 1 p.m. at the Charlotte Eagle’s-Aerie 3552, 116 Lansing Street, Charlotte, MI 48813.

Those desiring may make contributions in Dianne’s memory to Alzheimer’s Association or the Eaton County Humane Society.

To view Dianne’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:

Rozena “Rose” Kathleen Tennant, a proud mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister, died just shy of her 80th birthday on Saturday, July 13, 2024. Rose, 79, of Eaton Rapids, was born on July 29, 1944, in Stockbridge the daughter of Harry and Helen (Lutz) Hoffman. In 1971 Rose married Ernest David Tennant and together they created many lasting memories until his passing in 2022. Others knew Rose for her hospitality, she loved cooking and baking and giving her treats to others around the neighborhood. Rose turned back to her German Heritage every Christmas and made the best German Christmas cookies. She kept a very neat and tidy home extending to her flowerbeds, as there were never weeds to be found. Family meant the world to Rose. As a family there were the trips around the country, camping trips, supporting her boys with scouts, and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Rose is survived by her son, Troy Tennant; stepson, Kyle (LeAnn) Tennant; grandchildren, Alexis (Russell) Pliley, Ryan (Maisie) Tennant, Stephan Tennant, and Connor Tennant; five great-grandchildren; brother, Clifford (Christine) Hoffman; and dear friend, Sally Boehlke. She was predeceased by her husband of 50 years, Ernest; son, Tim Tennant; sister, Mary Kill; and her parents.

Friends are encouraged to support Rozena’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation will be Saturday, July 20, 2024, 10-11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with a funeral service following at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Todd McLane 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 Rose’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Oaklawn Hospice or the Faith Assembly of God. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Richard Gordon Wagner, a quiet and humble man of few words who loved his family, died peacefully on Saturday, July 13, 2024 at his home. Richard was born September 26, 1954, in Detroit, the son of Richard and Catherine (Woodside) Wagner. As a bright young boy, Richard earned a trip to Washington, D.C., and an engraved dictionary because of his academics. He was lifelong reader, and loved watching T.V. Above all, Richard loved visits from his stepchildren and grandchildren.

Richard struggled through a large part of his life with drug addiction and was finally able to become victorious and drug-free his last 4 years of life. He met a lot of good friends from Narcotics Anonymous throughout his trials.

Richard is survived by his wife, Carolyn Wagner; step-children, Jennifer Tillman, Paul (Niki) Lingoes, Sarah (Brian) Garrison, Melissa (Jason) Strotheide, and Mark Lingoes; nine grandchildren, Austin, Emily, Ben, Jarod, Anthony, Jillian, James, Nate, and Willow; siblings, Laura Kalis, Barbara Naper, Catherine (Kent) Woodward, Kim (Steve) Chapin, Dean (Sue) Wagner, and Spencer Wagner; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and his brothers, David Wagner and Robert Wagner.

Friends are encouraged to support Richard’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Funeral services were held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 18, 2024 at the Charlotte Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 1516 S. Cochran Rd., Charlotte, with Pastor Phillip Lea officiating. Visitation was one hour prior to the service at the church. 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 Richard’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 a local Narcotics Anonymous or the Seventh-Day Adventist Educational Fund. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Clyde Herbert Hamilton Jr., age 81, of Charlotte, passed away on Saturday, July 13, 2024. He was born June 7, 1943, in Lansing, the son of Clyde and Laura (Lovejoy) Hamilton. On April 12, 1964, Clyde married Janet A. McNair. Clyde spent the majority of his career working for General Motors in Lansing. When he wasn’t at work, he enjoyed maintaining an immaculate yard, bowling with his friends, collecting model cars, and dancing. He had a special place in his heart for his V-Star 1300 motorcycle and his 1978 Chevy Truck. Clyde will be deeply missed by his precious family and countless friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Herbert Hamilton; sister, Edna Symmes; and brother and sister-in-law, Ron and Hazel Hamilton.

Clyde is survived by his wife of 60 years, Janet; children, Tina Lietzke, Doug (Robin) Hamilton, Mike Hamilton; grandchildren, Ayla Lietzke, Meagan Lietzke, Alaina (Broc) Herr, Dustin Hamilton, Britney Hamilton, Chelsea Hamilton; great-grandchildren, Alexander Perkins, Mayze Herr, Bryson Herr, Anleigh Herr, Abigail Herr; siblings, Russell (Susan) Hamilton, Laura Taylor, Gary (Lisa) Hamilton, Kenneth (Carol) Hamilton, Carolyn (Tom) Frith; brother-in-law, John Symmes; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held on Friday, July 19, 2024, at 11 a.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Pastor Sean Esterline officiating. The family received friends on Thursday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Alchin Farm Cemetery in Webberville.

Those desiring may make contributions in Clyde’s memory to First Lutheran Church 550 E. Shepherd St., Charlotte, MI 48813.

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

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Funeral Services:

William Richard (Dick) Southern, 92 of Bellevue, Michigan, passed away July 11, 2024 after a long and successful life. Dick was born to William and Vivian Southern. As the eldest son of 7, he went to live with his grandparents to help on their farm. There his love for farming flourished. He started at an early age driving horses and milking cows. He later raised crops farming over 500 acres with the help of his 3 daughters. In the late 1980’s, Dick was the first in Eaton County to use no-till equipment reducing planting time by almost 50% and fuel usage by 80% while helping to protect the soil and evolve agriculture toward sustainability.

Upon graduating high school Dick joined the United States Army and served overseas. Upon his return he obtained employment at Oldsmobile in Lansing, MI. In 1956 he married his wife Gretchen with whom he raised three daughters until her untimely death in 1979. He continued to farm full time after his retirement from Oldsmobile in 1983 eventually downsizing to 80 acres which is grandson still farms.

Dick enjoyed sports and was inducted into the Greater Lansing Area Sports Hall of Fame in 2019 as a player on the 1947-49 Vermontville High School Baseball Team who went a combined 30-1 during its historic three year run with the only loss occurring in extra innings in the league championship game. In addition to baseball Dick liked to golf. In his retirement years he played in leagues with his brother, Larry and his friends John and Jim. More recently Dick enjoyed caring for his flowers and garden, rooting for the Tigers and Lions, and watching his numerous hummingbirds each summer.

He worked hard throughout his life, was an example to many and remains respected and cherished by his family. He is survived by his daughters Cindy Boehmer, Jackie VanDenBerg and Brenda Southern; six grandchildren: Richard (Rick) (Kelly) Boehmer, Jesse (LeeAnn) Boehmer, Elizabeth (Daniel) Dumont, Leanne (Austin) Rahn, Ashley VanDenBerg and Amber VanDenBerg; one step grandchild Michelle (Rob) Harley; five great grandchildren and four step great grandchildren.

He will be laid to rest in Hillside Cemetery with a private celebration of life occurring at a later date by his immediate family.

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Funeral Services:

Brandon Neil Ruthruff, age 72, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully at home with his wife by his side on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, after a short, brave fight with cancer. Brandon was born in Eaton Rapids on June 15, 1952, to Raymond and Sharon (Farrier) Ruthruff. He graduated from Charlotte High School with the class of ’70. Brandon was married to Amy Orbell on June 30, 2001. They recently celebrated their 23rd anniversary.

Shortly after graduating high school, Brandon was drafted into the USA Army where he served as a cook. He was stationed in Germany during his time in the service. After returning home, Brandon signed up with the Army National Guard where he faithfully served for 20+ years. His last job before retirement was working at Eaton County Health and Rehabilitation Services as a dietary aide. Brandon spent his retirement years going with his mother to garage sales and Goodwill looking for bargains. His spare time was spent painting with acrylics, which he both sold and gave away to friends. He liked fishing. Brandon enjoyed talking memories and seeing pictures of days-gone-by at Farrier family gatherings.

Brandon was a lover of animals, and the family requests that donations be made in his memory to the Eaton County Humane Society.

Brandon was preceded in death by his parents.

Brandon is survived by his loving wife, Amy; his children, Shane Ruthruff, Heather Gauthrie, and Robert (Hayle) Orbell; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and cousins. Farrier side cousins; Collette Frank, David Tuckey, Jamie Tuckey, Nanette (Jerry) Podany, Diana Bosworth, and Terry Miller.

Following Brandon’s wishes, no public memorial services will be held.

The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.

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Funeral Services:

Keith and Connie Bazaire of Parrish, Florida, formerly of Charlotte, Michigan, passed away less than one month apart on April 24 and May 9, respectively. A memorial visitation will be held Thursday, July 25, 2024, 5:30-7:30 p.m. in Pray Funeral Home Gardens (behind the funeral home) at 401 W. Seminary Street in Charlotte. A graveside service is scheduled for Friday, July 26, 11:00 a.m. at Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home.

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Funeral Services:

Barbara French, 95, of Michigan, passed away Wednesday, July 10, 2024. Barbara was born in Charlotte, MI on November 25, 1928.

Barbara was a loving mother and grandmother. She loved her children and grandchildren very much. Barb and Keith loved living at their home on Narrow Lake.She is preceded in death by her husband, Keith French.

Survivors include her children, Patricia (Bill Ruxton) French and Kirk (Tammy) French; grandchildren, Tiffany (Jeff) Pfeiffer, Brian (Brittany) Hochradel, Tyler (Jenna) French, Ashley (Trent) Vance, and Mandy (Joey) Loveall; and great grandchildren, Zack (Cassie) Pfeiffer, Hayes Hochradel, Ethan French, Natalie Vance, and Miriam Loveall.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Barbara French.