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LaVerne Aves of Delta Township passed away on September 8, 2024, at the age of 92.
LaVerne was born in Delta Township at his home on Saginaw Hwy. to Lloyd and Thelma (Dysinger) Aves on March 19, 1932. He married his high school sweetheart Mary Ellen Claflin on November 10, 1951. He enjoyed having his family around, liked to joke with them to see if he could “get you going”. He always tried to see the good in everyone and would help people whenever he could. One of his enjoyments was being a member of the Sons of the American Revolution and Sons of the Union Veterans where he was active in the Civil War Musters. He also enjoyed going to the Elementary schools to teach the children about the Civil War. LaVerne worked at General Motors (Olds) in the Tool and Die room for 35 years. After retirement, he worked as a Tooling Engineer, his lifelong goal.

He was preceded in death by his wife Mary Ellen (Claflin) Aves, son-in-law Darwin Pettit, daughter Janet Aves, grandson William Pettit, brother’s and sister’s-in-law, Layton and Phyllis Aves, and Otto and Virginia Aves, a sister and brother-in-law, LaVetta (Aves) George Highlen. LaVerne is survived by his daughters, Susan Pettit (Pat Outman) of Bellevue and Diane (Steve) Peake of Grand Ledge, son Burton Aves of Lansing; grandchildren: Andrea Pettit, Renee (Jerry) Slocum, Jennifer (Todd) Wright, Stacy Lantrip (Chris Aqueros), Kelly Langin, Valerie Barrett and Emily Aves; he was also blessed with seven great grandchildren: Jared (Destiny) Knight, Makell (Juliette) Thomas, Olivia, Noah, and Miles Langin, Steven Pickell and Elijah Pettit; great great grandson Atreus Thomas.

A Funeral Service was held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at Mills Funeral Home, Peters & Murray Chapel, 301 E. Jefferson, Grand Ledge, MI 48837 with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at Delta Center Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in loving memory of LaVerne Aves to Blessings in a Backpack Grand Ledge, PO Box 162, Grand Ledge, MI  48837, to Eaton Community Palliative Care, 2675 South Cochran, Charlotte, MI 48813, or Compassus Hospice, 801 S. Waverly Rd. #200, Lansing, MI 48917.

The family is being served by the Mills Funeral Home, Peters & Murray Chapel, Grand Ledge. Online condolences may be placed at www.millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

Florence Jannette Davids, age 65, of Charlotte, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, September 4, 2024. She was born August 25, 1959, in Charlotte, the daughter of Donald and Florence (Smith) Davids. Flo loved her family with a deep devotion. She adored her son, Presten and always beamed when he was the topic of conversation. Flo had a huge heart for others and would give you the shirt off her back. She enjoyed drawing, playing cards, and listening to music. Her loss will be keenly felt by her precious family and friends.

Flo is survived by her son, Presten Charles Merschel; grandchildren, P.J. and Nevaeh; sister, Donna (Jackie) Oestrick; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Charlene M. Shaver.

In keeping with the wishes of her family, cremation has taken place and a celebration of Flo’s life will be held at a later date.

Those desiring may make contributions in Flo’s memory to the family.

To view her 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:

Mary Ellen Fenn, age 85, of Portland, Maine, formerly of Charlotte, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2024. She was born January 8, 1939, in Charlotte, the daughter of George and Mary (Southworth) Fenn.

Mary Ellen graduated from Charlotte High School with the Class of 1957 as the Salutatorian. She then went on to attend the University of Michigan. After completing her undergraduate work, she enrolled in medical school and graduated in 1964. Mary specialized in obstetrics and gynecology and practiced in Ann Arbor until 1973. She then moved to Maine to help start the Women to Women Health Clinic with several other female physicians. She retired from practicing medicine in 1994. Upon retirement she spent her winters in Florida and summers in Maine.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Geroge and Mary Fenn and dear friends, Frank and Lorraine Lawrence.

Those surviving are several cousins and good friends, Tom and Carlene Muller of Maine.

n keeping with her wishes cremation has taken place and a graveside service will be held at Center Eaton Cemetery on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. with Reverand Father Dwight Ezop officiating.

To view Mary’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:

Rebecca (Cowell) Gallimore, Age 61 of Nashville, MI passed away peacefully on August 30, 2024, at her farm in Nashville, MI.

Rebecca was born in Hastings, MI, on February 01, 1963, a daughter of Charlotte and Henry Cowell of Vermontville, MI

She was raised in the Vermontville area and attended local schools graduating from Maple Valley High School in 1981. During her time at Maple Valley, Rebecca enjoyed participating in local community events and playing sports. Rebecca was the 1980 Vermontville Maple Syrup Queen. She loved maple syrup so much she even put it on her macaroni and cheese. She continued her education at Kellogg Community College completing her associate’s degree in applied commerce.

Rebecca began her working career at Hastings Aluminum Products, then transitioned to Kellogg Community College where she worked for several years at the RMTC, and then became the Executive Assistant to the President for four years, finishing out her career as the Operations Manager at the RMTC and EAC. She worked faithfully at KCC for over 28 years before retiring in 2021.

She was married to Mr. Steven Gallimore on August 14, 1999, in a western themed wedding in the backyard on her father’s farm in Vermontville. Rebecca & Steve made their home together in the Kalamo area on their 20-acre horse farm. Being in the country allowed Rebecca the freedom to pursue her passion for horses. Throughout the years she has been active in raising Quarter & Paint Horses. Becky’s passion for horses began at a young age by participating in 4-H and spending many years going to horse shows. While at her home Rebecca spent her free time grooming the horses and working in her flower garden. Rebecca was an excellent singer, and often travelled with Steve’s band, lending her outstanding vocal talent whenever the opportunity presented itself. Becky loved all animals and rescued many, including a baby possum that she fed with a doll bottle. Becky also spent as many days as she could playing golf. A great day was spent fishing with her dad even if they came home with no fish.

Rebecca is survived by her beloved husband Steve, her parents Charlotte & Henry Cowell, her sisters Sheila (Danny) Dunn, Kelli Cowell, brothers Kenny (Sue) Cowell, Steve (Teressa) Cowell and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her beloved horse “Clancy” and her dogs “Maxamillion” and “Brandy”.

As per Rebecca’s wishes she will be cremated. A Celebration of Life will take place on a future date. Anyone wishing to donate in Rebecca’s memory can make donations to the Eaton County horse arena for speakers and improvements by sending a check made to ECAS in care of Karen Newman, 2679 North Ainger Road, Charlotte, MI 48813 or to the Eaton County Humane Society, P.O. Box 233, Olivet, MI 49076

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville, conveniently located at 9200 E. M-79 Hwy., Nashville, MI. For further details please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net.

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Funeral Services:

Mary Lou Hull, a woman who was a loyal friend to all, died on Thursday, September 5, 2024. Mary 94, of Charlotte was born on August 17, 1930 in Chester Township the daughter of Vaughn and Kathleen (Jordan) Smuts. She proudly graduated as the Salutatorian the class of 1948 from Potterville High School. Shortly after graduating from high school, she married Robert Hull and together they created their legacy. Mary worked for the Potterville Post Office for several years before Mary and Robert took over as caretakers for the Valley Springs Mobile Home Park. In her younger years she enjoyed family trips to the lake, and trips across the country to Vegas, and NASCAR racing. Most recently she enjoyed sewing, crocheting, knitting, reading, and doing crossword puzzles. Many will remember Mary for her love for cardinals and her green thumb. Above all she enjoyed spending time with her family especially her grand-dog, Hunter.

Mary is survived by her daughter, Joan (Lee) Stuble; grandchildren, Doug (Kendra) Fish, Nikki Fish, Kelly Stuble, and Kevin (Marie) Stuble; three great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren; son-in-law, Ed Hayes; and special friend, Carol Root. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Robert; daughter, Connie Hayes; and great-grandson, Christian Stuble.

Friends are encouraged to support Mary’s family by sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Eaton County Health and Rehabilitation Services. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Denny Joe Stahly, 61, of Marshall, Michigan passed away on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at home, of Stiff Person Syndrome.

He was born on October 1, 1962, to Dewain Stahly and Margaret (Criner) Harvey in Goshen, Indiana.

Denny was a 1982 graduate of Coldwater High School. After high school, he headed to Denver Colorado to Auto Body school. On May 17, 1997, Denny married Susan “Sue” Scott at Family Bible Church in Marshall, Michigan and they moved to Omaha, Nebraska. Denny was a lifelong farmer along with being a Machinist, having worked at various companies in Bronson, Michigan, Indiana and Omaha, Nebraska. At the age of 45, Denny had to take a medical retirement due to Stiff Person Syndrome, but he was very determined to continue working around the house and especially on his own cars and tractor repairs (he had very strong hands and didn’t know his own strength). He attended Family Bible Church in Marshall, Michigan and welcomed the Stephen Ministries into their home. Denny’s passion was bass fishing, as he frequently entered many local bass tournaments. He also enjoyed deer hunting, being outdoors, building, and flying model airplanes and target shooting. Denny along with Susan relaxed by watching outdoor shows on television. Their favorite passion was fishing, going to antique tractor shows, going to air shows and museums, traveling to different Bass Pro Shops and several states.

Denny is survived by his loving spouse of 27 years Susan, his son; David Stahly of Jackson, Michigan; his mother; Margaret Harvey of Sturgis, Michigan, his brother; Donald Romine of Sturgis, Michigan, his twin-Brother; Benny Stahly of Sturgis, Michigan, his sister; Sherry (Mike) Stahly-Whitehorn of Okmulgee, Oklahoma and his half-brother; Thomas (Kim) Romine of Coldwater, Michigan; and his Aunt Ruth and Uncle Carl Stahly of Coldwater, Michigan. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by Father, Dewain Stahly and his sister, Joy Harvey.

Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Family Bible Church in Marshall, Michigan with Randy Swan officiating (with Stephen Ministries).  A luncheon will immediately follow. Memorials are suggested to the Stiff Person Syndrome Research Foundation (8621 Burdette Rd., Bethesda, MD 20817). Arrangements were entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services 723 US Hwy. 27 N, Marshall, Michigan 49068. Please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guest book or to leave the family condolences.

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Marvin Richard Cook, a lifelong resident of Mulliken, passed away peacefully on      September 10, 2024, in Lansing, MI, at the age of 65. Born on July 28, 1959, in Charlotte, MI, he was the son of the late Richard and Margaret (Stanislav) Cook.

Marvin graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1977, where he was an active member of the Future Farmers of America (FFA), setting the foundation for his lifelong commitment to agriculture. After graduation, he devoted himself to farming, a vocation that was not just a job but a way of life for him. His days were spent tending to the land, with a special place in his heart for his beloved John Deere tractors. His ability to fix anything that was put in front of him earned him the reputation of being incredibly handy, a skill he took great pride in.

Marvin was also a member of the Portland First Baptist Church, and The Jug & Mug Club.

Marvin’s love for animals was evident to all who knew him. He had a gentle way with creatures of all kinds, and his farm was a haven not just for crops but for the animals he cared for with such tenderness. Working on tractors, especially those of his favored brand, was more than a hobby; it was a way for Marvin to connect with the land and the tools that helped shape it.

He is lovingly remembered by his sister, Loisann Rogowyi (Paul), and his brother, Steven Cook (Kathy). Marvin also leaves behind his brother-in-law, Jon Margules, and many cherished nieces, nephews, and friends. Marvin was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Margaret (Stanislav) Cook, and his sister, Linda Margules.

Visitation will be held Sunday, September 15, 2024, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Mills Funeral Home, Peters & Murray Chapel, Grand Ledge. A Funeral Service will be held 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 16, 2024, at the funeral home with a visitation one hour prior to the service; luncheon at the Grand Ledge Masonic Temple immediately following services; interment to be held 2:00 p.m. at Danby Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in loving memory of Marvin Cook to the Future Farmers of America (FFA).

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Funeral Services:

Brenda Jo Farnham, a woman who always put her family first, passed away Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at her home. Brenda, 64, of Charlotte was born June 1, 1960 in Battle Creek to Larry Gene Farnham and Kazuko (Uno) Farnham. As an “Air Force Brat,” Brenda lived in many different places during her childhood. She graduated from Bellevue High School and pursued a career in accounting. During her time as an Accounting Clerk at Delta Dental, Brenda was nicknamed the “Delta Queen.” Following her retirement, Brenda returned to Delta Dental as a contractor until her great-grandson, Jett, was born.
One of Brenda’s greatest joys in life was being a fun grandma and spending time with her family. She cherished them all, especially her grandson Jacob, and great-grandson Jett. She was the caring matriarch of her family. She was always known as “The Lady In Charge” who loved giving instructions for any family gathering.

Brenda enjoyed gardening in her flower beds around her home and the vegetable patch outback. She also enjoyed fishing trips in summer on the water and winter on the ice. It wasn’t uncommon for her to out fish everybody else on any given day. Travel was always one of her favorite pastimes, whether it was sightseeing across the country, or riding ATV’s in northern Michigan. Her favorite destinations were anywhere with a sunny beach. Around the home Brenda enjoyed reading thriller novels, puzzles and cooking, especially salsa. Brenda always cooked for an Army. Sending home leftovers from any family gathering was so common that family and guests developed the habit of bringing their own to-go containers to the family dinners.

As a volunteer, Brenda became a strong advocate for Siren Shelter, gathering donations from throughout the staff and executives at Delta Dental which ranged from office equipment and supplies to office furniture and computers.

Brenda is survived by her husband, Steven Lake; daughter, Charity (Jason) Gravina; son, Andrew Lake; father, Larry Farnham; brother, Robert Farnham; grandson, Jacob (Millie) Gravina; and great-grandson, Jett Gravina. She was preceded in death by her mother, Kazuko Farnham.

Friends are encouraged to support Brenda’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Please join the family for visitation Sunday, September 15 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. Brenda’s funeral services are Monday, September 16, 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home, with interment to follow in Ceresco Cemetery in Ceresco Michigan where she will be laid to rest next to her mother. 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 Brenda’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 Siren Shelter or Hospice of Lansing. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Retta J. McNeil, age 85, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. She was born March 5, 1939, in Royal Oak, Michigan, the daughter of Jesse and Doris (Walker) Cundiff. She graduated from Dondero High School and went on to earn her master’s degree in education from Western Michigan University. She married Glenwood Dale McNeil in 1960. Retta had a special love for children her entire life and was an elementary school teacher and math consultant for Charlotte Public Schools for 31 years. She cherished her students and the relationships that were formed over the years. Retta and Glenwood raised and raced Standardbred horses for many years. She loved the horses, spending time with horse people, and the comradery of all those that worked together with them to make their racing a success.

Retta is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, Glenwood; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and brothers, Bruce Cundiff and Jesse Cundiff.

In keeping with Retta’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and no services will be held.
Those desiring may make contributions in Retta’s memory to the Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 W. Grand River Ave., Lansing, MI 48906.

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

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Funeral Services:

David Everett Hamilton of Onondaga, passed away September 2, 2024, at the age of 67. Dave was born in Eaton Rapids, Michigan on May 22, 1957, the son of Everette and Joan (Winters) Hamilton. He was an Eaton Rapids High School graduate. Dave was a Mechanic, he worked for University Olds for over 20 years and then went to work for Mead Brothers Excavating. He was an avid outdoorsman. Dave enjoyed camping, backpacking, hunting, exploring his property and riding dirt bikes. He was very intrigued by astronomy, even sending his daughter Kerri daily updates. Dave was a member of the NRA and enjoyed HAM radios. Most of all he loved his grandkids, and spending as much time with them as possible.

David is survived by his wife, Diane Hamilton of Onondaga; daughter, Kerri Jean (Nathan) Kulas of Albion; grandkids, Carter, Makenna and Kane Kulas; siblings, Jane (Ron) Moss, Carol Pilmore; sister-in-law, Jean Hamilton. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Jim Hamilton.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association in loving memory of David Everett Hamilton. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.