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Funeral Services:

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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Funeral Services:

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.

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Funeral Services:

Thomas Lee Uridge of Dimondale and Florida, former VP Ingham Medical Center. Passed away unexpectedly August 29, 2024, at the age of 83. Tom was born on August 13, 1941, at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the son of Laurence and Ida (Galley) Uridge. He grew up on Otilla Street, attending Elger Grade School K-2. Tom then moved to Kalamazoo around 1948 and attended Hillcrest School, grades 3-6. He got a Cushman Eagle Motorcycle, which he absolutely loved, and had a paper route delivering newspapers during 7th – 9th grade while attending South Junior High. Tom graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School in 1959.
He went to work at A&P while attending Western Michigan University. In 1961, he joined the United States Marine Corps and served both active and reserves for six years, while also attending Western Michigan. Tom graduated in 1964 with a bachelor’s in science. He then married and had two children, Leeann and Brian. After marriage, Tom worked as a process server and sold life insurance until he started working for the State of Michigan as a youth counselor for three years. He then worked at Clark Equipment in Battle Creek in Personnel, eventually transferring to Jackson Clark Equipment in Personnel and as a Safety Officer.

In 1972, he took a job as Director of Personnel at Ingham Regional Medical Center, eventually becoming one of the Vice Presidents.  While working full-time at Ingham Regional Medical Center he attended and graduated from Cooley Law School with his Juris Doctorate. That degree and expertise became paramount in his position. He was a walking union while there due to his open-door policy where you could say anything without fear of reprisal. He was compassionate, feisty, gregarious, caring, charismatic, funny, and quirky with a great sense of humor.  You always knew Tom was around by his hearty infectious laugh. He was also a very pointed communicator which made him ideal for his job. There was a serious and playful side to him. You always knew which face he had on! Tom was well respected because of his personality and that open-door policy. There was never a formal union during his 25-year tenure, and he was very proud of the employee relations environment he developed. He was a strong proponent of confidentiality and employee privacy and created and maintained an environment free of harassment. Tom retired in 1994 but continued working additional years at the request of the CEO.

He is survived by his children, Leeann Uridge, Brian Uridge (Sandy), granddaughter, Alex Uridge; sister Nancy Jennings; sister-in-law, Marge Uridge; and the love of his life and partner in crime Nancy Rens-Uridge. Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Laurence and Ida Uridge; brothers, Laurence “Bud” Uridge, Bruce Uridge, Robert “Bobby” James Uridge and an Infant brother; sister, Diane Bartoo, brothers-in-law, Jim Bartoo, and Howard Jennings; and sister-in-law, Susan Uridge.

A private memorial service will be held for family, and a celebration of life service at a later date. For those desiring memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army of Lansing, 525 N. Pennsylvania Ave, Lansing MI 48912 or City Rescue Mission of Lansing, 2216 S. Cedar St, Lansing MI 48910. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

Doris (Young) Thornton, age 93, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 2, 2024, at home surrounded by those she loved. She was born October 6, 1930, at the family home in Sunfield, Michigan the daughter of Devilo and Letha (Guy) McDiarmid. Doris was a devoted Christian and member of the Assemblies of God her entire life. Her Bible reading was very important to her. She had read through the Bible seven times. In her spare-time she enjoyed playing cards, BINGO, horse racing, and watching the Detroit Tigers. Family was always the most important part of her life. She cherished each and every one of them in a special way.

Doris is survived by her children: Edward Young of Charlotte, Sandra (Bob) VanSplintern of Charlotte, Tommy Young of Charlotte, Ted Young of Charlotte, Larry Young of Charlotte; grandchildren: Sherrie (Shad) Golding, Jim Young, Chad (Tracey) VanSplintern, Aaron (Erin) VanSplintern, Stacey Young, Amy (Brian) Miller; numerous great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; sister, Linda (David) Sunken and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; first husband, Carl Young; second husband, Walter Thornton; and 11 siblings.

The family received friends during a time of visitation and sharing on Thursday, September 5, 2024, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. A private burial will take place at Maple Hill Cemetery.

Those desiring may make contributions in Doris’s memory to the charity of their choosing.
To view Doris’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.

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Funeral Services:

James (Jim) Lewis Young of Charlotte was reunited with his daughter Dana, on her second year of passing, Friday, August 30, 2024.

James (Jim) was born December 30, 1941, in Lansing to his parents Floyd and Leone (Pierce) Young. He graduated from Easten High School, then worked for Sparrow Hospital before being drafted into the Army during Vietnam, where he was trained as military corpsman. He married the love of his life Elaine (Hagerman) on April 3, 1965, and they lived near Fort Knox, KY during his time in the military. They moved home to Lansing to start a family, and he began a career with General Motors (GM) to which he retired after 30 years of service. During this time, Jim and Elaine welcomed their loving daughter Dana first in 1968, then two years, two months and two days later, they welcomed their loving son Mark in 1970.

Jim was loved for his intelligence, quick sense of humor, his mechanical ability to fix anything, and his devotion to family. He loved just being home, and fishing. He often kept a packed duffle bag on hand for his adventures north to Dana’s paradise, also known as the “the cottage”, in Ocqueoc, Michigan. He loved spending time there with Dana, her husband Dan, family, friends, or just simply by himself fishing the Ocqueoc River.

He was a loving, wonderful husband, father and grandpa! Leading us all by example to show what it means to be devoted to family; he was proud to see his children and grandchildren living their lives this way! He would always make us laugh and was happy to see that his granddaughters inherited the same quick wit from him. He showed us all what real love is! He will forever be remembered, loved and missed!

He was preceded in death by his parents Floyd and Leone, his brother Bill (Pat) Young, and his daughter Dana.
Jim is survived by his wife of 59 years Elaine, Son Mark (Amy), Granddaughters Olivia (Alex) and Elizabeth (Sebastian). His brother David (Anne), Sister Sue, and sister-in-law Daylene Sadler, many nieces, nephews, and friends. He is also survived by his wonderful son-in-law Dan Clay and the incredible Clay Family; Thank you Dan for your continued help and support!

A graveside service was held on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at 2 p.m. at West Carmel Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contributions in Jim’s memory to the charity of their choosing.

To view Jim’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:

Shannon Denise (Miller) Saurbek, age 57, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, September 1, 2024, in Lansing, Michigan. She was born in Lansing on April 17, 1967, to Jack and Sharon Miller. Shannon attended Charlotte Public Schools and graduated from High School with the class of ’86. She married Mark Saurbek on October 10, 1998, in Vermontville. Shannon worked for over 15 years at Serenity Acres as a nurse aid caring for the elderly.

Shannon loved her family and cared deeply for them. Time spent at camping every summer at Double R Ranch was always an enjoyable and much anticipated time of year. We as a family cherish our memories of going tubing, kayaking, and then ending the day sitting around a bonfire together. She maintained a beautiful flower garden every year and enjoyed feeding and watching the birds. We will miss her deeply, and although we know that life will go on, it won’t be the same without her.

Those surviving her are; her husband of 27 years, Mark; her children, Phillip (Danielle) Bowerman, Keith (Chrissy) Bowerman, Eric Saurbek, Heather (John) Wenzel; grandchildren, Hunter Bowerman, Madison Bowerman, Paisley Bowerman, Zach McGruther, Ella Saurbek, Ryan Saurbek, Blaze Capen, Tatum Capen, Oliver Wenzel; siblings, Randy Miller, Shane (Winnie) Miller, Darcy Powell; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Sharon Emery Powell; father, Jack Miller; stepfather, Robert Powell; and brother, Jeff Miller.

In keeping with Shannon’s wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be a celebration of life at a later date.

Those desiring may make contributions in Shannon’s memory to Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 W. Grand River Ave, Lansing, MI 48906.

To view Shannon’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:

Florence Ann Lee, 82, of Holt, a strong-willed women and devoted mother and grandmother, died Saturday, August 31, 2024, in Lansing. Florence was born February 11, 1942, in Detroit, the daughter of Gerald and Georgia (Selman) Monteith. She worked nearly 20 years at Peckham in Charlotte and sold Avon and Watkins on and off throughout the years. Florence was a collector of jewelry, especially watches, and loved sipping coffee while watching her gameshows and talk shows. She enjoyed birdwatching and was especially fond of cardinals and hummingbirds, and she loved her country music. She and her husband, Orval, often enjoyed cruising the countryside together, back before GPS when they would simply drive for hours to get a cup of coffee or visit friends and family. Florence loved getting together for picnics and holidays. She was a loving friend to many. Florence will be forever remembered as an outgoing people person who devoted her life to her family and friends. She remained “full of life” right to the very end.

Florence is survived by her daughters, Jodi (Rex) VanGuilder and Sue Ann Lee; grandchildren, Matt Mclean, James Lee, Megan Lee, and Bryson Lee; great-grandchildren, Madison Mclean and Docota Portvliet; great-great-granddaughters, Mariana and Elena Garrett; beloved niece, Deborah Montieth; sister-in-law, Joyce Bogart-Lee; several great-nieces and great-nephews; many friends; and grand-dogs and cat, Myah, Loner, and Po Kitty. She was predeceased by her son, Jay Lee in 2021; brother, Gerald Joseph Monteith II; niece, Mary Ann Montieth; former husband and forever friend, Orval Howard Lee in 2001; and her dog, Buster.

Friends are encouraged to support Florence’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A Celebration of Life is being planned for a later date. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the family in care of Jodi VanGuilder. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.