-

Funeral Services:

Joan Marie Sharp-Harmon, age 87, of Bellevue, passed away March 6, 2024, at Thornapple Manor in Hastings. She was born July 21, 1936, in Eaton Rapids to Merle and Marvelle “Jessie” (Heisler) Sharp. Joan received her education in Olivet, graduating from Olivet High School with the class of ‘54. She married the love of her life, Joseph Harman, on June 5, 1955 in Olivet.

It is hard to sum up Joan’s life in a few words. She was proud to be a homemaker and worked hard taking care of her family and chores on the farm. Joan also worked part time in the office helping farmers at Eaton County Farm Bureau. She loved to spend time outdoors and kept a tidy vegetable and flower garden every year. Joan was known for her cooking as well as being ruthless at playing Hand & Foot card game! She always took time to make sure her children succeeded in life and spent countless hours helping them with 4-H, girl scouts, and as a PTA room mother at Olivet Schools. Later in life Joan collected dolls and teapots. She was talented and creative with making crafts. Watching and listening to the many songbirds in her backyard brought her joy. She loved the Lord and attended Ainger Bible Church. Joan’s family remembers her as a very kind and loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She will be deeply missed.

Those surviving her are her husband of 68 years, Joseph; children, Sally (Carl) Fox of PA, Carla (Bill) Kanine of Petoskey, Thomas (Julie) Harmon of Olivet, Debra (Rex) Swank of Olivet; eight grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; siblings, Jane VanDriessche of Olivet, brother-in-law, Bill Mott of Battle Creek, Barbara (John) Henry of TN, sister-in-law, Joyce Sharp of Olivet, Mary (Richard) Midlam of Olivet; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings, Gene Sharp, Elaine Sharp, Ilene Mott, and Kenneth Sharp.
Funeral services were held at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home on Saturday, March 9, 2024, with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. Family received friends during a time of visitation for one hour prior to the service. Interment will take place after the funeral service at Bosworth Cemetery.

Those desiring may make contributions in Joan’s memory to Elara Caring Hospice Foundation, PO Box 58, Jackson, MI 49204 or to Visiting Angels in Charlotte, 338 S. Cochran Ave., Charlotte, MI 48813, or to West Carmel Congregational Church, 5016 Carlisle Rd., Charlotte, MI 48813

To view Joan’s obituary online or 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.

-

Funeral Services:

Jewelene Anderson of Eaton Rapids, passed away March 9, 2024 at the age of 96. She was born August 28, 1927, in Salyersville, KY the daughter of Elliot and Gertrude (Whitaker) Risner. She attended school in Kentucky and moved with her family to Michigan as a young woman. Jewelene married Earl Anderson November 5, 1948, in Eaton Rapids and they had three children.
She enjoyed gardening, canning food, cooking, crocheting and knitting, sewing (including quilts), helping people with their income taxes, working crossword puzzles, and going to Cracker Barrel and Walmart. She and Earl were founding members of the Eaton Rapids Calvary Evangelical Lutheran Church.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Earl Anderson; daughter, Susan Burns; son, Dave Anderson, and siblings, Chalmer Risner, Irene Wittman, Elsie Love, Joyce Byron, Esther Risner, Alden Risner, Lorena Jecks and Mark Risner.
Jewelene is survived by her son, Don (Nancy) Anderson, daughter-in-law, Paige Anderson; four granddaughters, Amy Anderson, Michelle (Greg) Blythe, Cathy Anderson, and Jennifer (Brian) Oldham; great-grandchildren, Alex and Chloe Montgomery, Emily and Caylee Anderson, John Oldham; sister, Mae Locke as well as many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to give a special thanks to the entire staff at the Island City Assisted Living for their special care they gave to Jewelene over the past four years.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. Family received friends for visitation on Tuesday at the funeral home. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Calvary Lutheran Church, 10500 Plains Rd., Eaton Rapids, MI 48827, in Jewelene’s name. To share memories and condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com

-

Funeral Services:

Raymond Howard “Howard” Metzmaker, Jr., age 91, of Potterville, MI, passed away Sunday, February 18, 2024, at Masonic Pathways, Alma, MI.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 1, 2024, from 3:30-6:30 p.m. at VFW Hall in Charlotte, MI.

Raymond was born in Grand Ledge, MI on April 10, 1932, the son of Raymond Howard and Zella (Walker) Metzmaker. Howard graduated from East Lansing High School. He honorably served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

Howard owned and operated Howard’s Garage in Potterville for 60 years until 2018. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge #367 in Potterville and the American Legion. Howard loved race cars and raced until he was in his eighties.

Howard was a staple in the community whose kindness touched many. He helped others who were in need and always said, “Friends and family are what’s important.” He sponsored several teams over the years. He loved softball and was a proud supporter of Potterville and the Michigan State University Spartans. He was loved by all that knew him and will be missed by all he touched in his life.

He is survived by his son, Rick and Roxanne Metzmaker; son, Rod Metzmaker; daughter Kristy Metzmaker; 26 grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; many great-great-grandchildren. Howard was preceded in death by his parents, his son Dave Metzmaker in 2004, and his brothers: Jerry Metzmaker in 2010 and Jacob Metzmaker in 2013.

Special thanks to all the staff at Masonic Pathaways for all the wonderful care and support shown to our family.

Online condolences may be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes, Ithaca, Michigan.

-

Funeral Services:

Michelle Dunkleberger, Age 59, Marshall (formerly of Nashville), passed away unexpectedly on February 26, 2024, at her home in Marshall, MI. Michelle was born in Hastings, MI, on August 30, 1964, a daughter of the late Bernice (Maurer) and Leon Frith.

Michelle was raised in Nashville and attended local schools, graduating from Maple Valley High School in 1982. After completing her education, she married Mr. Tony Dunkelberger on December 10, 1983, at St Cyril Catholic Church in Nashville, MI. Michelle and Tony began their family together in Nashville, then in 1996, relocated to Alpena, MI, where Tony was teaching school & coaching.

During this time, Michelle continued to pursue her passion for the arts. She began by renting a small space in a local antique store, where she established her art studio. She used her talents to teach art classes and opened Michelle Louise Glass Studio and Gifts. Her love of the arts extended beyond “creating” and into theatre, where she was an active community participant in the Thunder Bay Theater. She performed in productions such as Tom Sawyer, Little Abner, Music Man, and Once Upon a Mattress.

Michelle loved music and used her vocal talents singing in St. Cyril, St Ann, and St. Bernard church choirs. She was also integral to volunteering at the annual Alpena Blues Festival. She was part of a group that established Friday Nights Downtown in Alpena. Michelle returned to the Nashville area in 2012 and began the restoration of the stained glass windows at St Cyril Catholic Church and served on the Maple Valley School Board. She was a licensed real estate agent and enjoyed helping many find their homes.

Michelle is survived by her three children, Kellen (Samantha) Dunkelberger, Jessilyn (Michael) Dunegan, LeeAnn (Richard) Martin, siblings Cynthia Gertude (Dean) Houston, LuAnn (Duane) King, RoseMary (Steve) Fosdick, six grandchildren, and her significant other Charlie Wolgamood. She was preceded in death by her husband, Tony, who passed away in 1999.
Funeral service was held on Tuesday, March 5, 2024 at St. Cyril Catholic Church, 203 North State Street, Nashville, MI, with Father Jeffery Hanley officiating.

The family received visitors on Monday, March 4, 2024, with a Rosary service immediately following at Daniels Funeral Home-Nashville, conveniently located at 9200 E. M79 Highway Nashville, MI.

Interment occured immediately following the Funeral Mass at Lakeview Cemetery in Nashville, MI.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville, MI. For further details, please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net.

-

Funeral Services:

Douglas Peter Sjoquist (born March 30, 1951, in Escanaba, Michigan) passed away at Eaton Community Palliative Care peacefully on March 5, 2024. He is survived by his dearest friend and wife, Jan, of Charlotte, MI, and his children: Jonah (Yoko) from Brighton, MI, Mei-li (Nick) Restani from San Francisco, CA, Michelle (Mike) Erickson from Grand Rapids, MI, and Stephanie (Dean) Leavitt from Charlotte, MI as well as his two brothers and best friends, Paul (Annabelle) from Mililani, HI and Bill (Cathy) from Gladstone, MI. He had several grandchildren including Kainoa, Kaleo, Novella, Alessio, Alyssa, Maleia, Julia, Ethan, Elana, Collin, one great granddaughter, Freya, and one great grandson, Eli.

He graduated from Northern Michigan University in 1974 and the University of Hawaii in 1979. Sjoquist was a professor at Bay de Noc Community College (1980- 81), Lansing Community College (1982-2015), and at Michigan State University (2008- 2020). He was a curious mind who enjoyed an active and rich lifestyle of traveling, rockhounding, swimming/snorkeling, music, art, and writing on a variety of topics. He was also a professional musician playing in various rock and country bands throughout most of his life.

It is nearly impossible to sum up Doug’s influence on all who knew him, but former student, Justin Parker Pool 1 came close:
“It has been about 25 years since I took his class, but I still remember him explaining with wonder how the old Taoists would not mourn the dead, but rather parade down the street in celebration of their life. It is with that sense of joy that I am thankful to have known him as a teacher and friend. Sjoquist-Sensei’s kindness and joy for life will live on in all of us who knew him.”

There will be no funeral service. In honoring his life, donations may be made to Doug’s cause of spreading compassion and knowledge to Eaton Community Palliative Care, 2675 S. Cochran, Charlotte, MI 48813 or Friends of Charlotte Community Library, 226 S. Bostwick Street, Charlotte, MI 48813.

To view Doug’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com
The family is in the care of the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.

-

Funeral Services:

John E. Locke Sr., honest, humble, and beloved family man, died March 1, 2024, at the age of 81. A lifetime resident of Charlotte, John was born May 2, 1942, to Rowland and Doris (Wonser) Locke. In 1961 he married Judith Ludwig and they worked side-by-side on their dairy farm for 62 years. While he wasn’t always politically correct, he loved to make others smile and was a jokester, loving to pick on his friends. John was very active with 4-H, FFA, and Farm Bureau, and was the fun dad and grandpa, with the kids always wanting to be where he was and do whatever he did.

John was also one of the guys that people would go to when they needed help. He was a 4-H leader, Farm Bureau FSA committee member, volunteered at his church and at the Eaton County Senior Center, and received several awards for his active participation in so many organizations over the years. John was a humble, fair and honest man, loving the Lord and living his life in a way that showed others what being a Christian really means.

John will be greatly missed by many people who knew and loved him. He is survived by his wife or 62 years, Judith; children, John Locke Jr. (Tuttie Gulett), Jeffrey (Angie) Locke, Lisa (Greg) Wylie; son-in-law, Roger (Nanette) Harris; grandchildren Jesse (Natlie) Harris, Elizabeth (TJ) Smith, Sarah (Chris) Johnston, Kendall (Alex) Dubois, Brittany (Alex) Ambrosius, Paige (Justin) Hall, Chelsea (Joshua) Ramirez, Lindsey (Ben) Walker, Joshua Locke, Justin Locke, Brett (Haidyn) Heikes, and Sharlene (Nick) Tekrony; 17 great-grandchildren; siblings, Leone Bust and Duane (Sharon) Locke; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by daughter, Cynthia Harris; brother, Elwin Locke; and brother-in-law, Don Bust.

Friends are encouraged to support John’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Tuesday, March 5, at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services were Wednesday, March 6, at Crossroads United Brethren Church in Charlotte. The funeral as webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on John’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 County Agricultural Society. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

-

Funeral Services:

Norene Rose Fell, a woman of remarkable passion and a self -taught Linnaean Taxonomist, left this world on March 4, 2024, leaving behind a legacy that touched the hearts of all who knew her. Born on September 11, 1937, in Muskegon, MI, to Adolph August Pierre Domont and Norah Johnson, the last of four daughters. Norene’s life journey was a testament to her love for God, Christ, and the awe-inspiring wonders of His creations.

In her youth, Norene was an active member of the Girl Scouts and Walther League, finding solace and community in her church. She graduated from Muskegon High School, laying the foundation for a life characterized by curiosity, kindness, and an unyielding spirit. Embarking on her professional journey, Norene began as a bookbinder and librarian’s assistant. After her marriage to Forrest Alton Fell on January 9, 1967 her deep connection with animals led her to become the proud owner of Crestview Boarding Kennel in the Charlotte area. For 34 years, she welcomed over 10,000 customers, caring not only for their dogs and cats but also raising prizewinning German Shepherds alongside her beloved husband, Forrest.

In 1984, Norene graduated from Lansing Community College, transitioning to a fulfilling role as a substitute teacher. A woman of many talents, she was a gifted musician and writer, sharing her love for music by actively participating in her church choir and serving as the accompanist on piano and organ. Norene’s commitment to her faith and her community was unwavering. Her studies in Linnaean Taxonomy, the study of the genus and species of all living things, reflected her awe for God’s creation, as she saw science as a pathway to understanding the divine.

Noreen is survived by her children, Aaron (Shannon) Fell, Michael (Carla) Fell, and Sarah (Jaymie) Walters; grandchildren, Robert, Angie, Michael Jr., Jacob, Jessica, Andrew, and Alexandyr. She was predeceased by her husband, Forrest; grandson, Daniel; and her sisters, Nancy Rudick, Delphine Poellott, and Arlene Rose (her twin sister).

Family and friends were invited to celebrate Norene’s life during the visitation at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte on Thursday, March 7. The funeral service was held on Friday, March 8, 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home. Norene will be laid to rest beside her husband in West Carmel Cemetery. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to First Lutheran Church of Charlotte or Siren Eaton Shelter, organizations that held special places in Norene’s heart. Memories of Norene can be shared on her tribute page at www.PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

-

Funeral Services:

Tom Reid, age 86 of Nashville, MI passed away on March 1, 2024, at Sensations Memory Care in Charlotte.

Thomas was born in Hastings MI, February 12, 1938, a son of Florence and Clyde Reid.

Thomas was raised in the Nashville area and attended local schools graduating from W.K. Kellogg School in 1957. After completing his education Tom enlisted in the United States Army. He served faithfully for three years before being honorably discharged in 1962. He worked faithfully for over 35 years retiring in 2000 from Union Pump Company.
Tom also was a lifetime farmer raising beef cattle and buffalo.

On June 5, 1965, he married Emma Jean Jordan in Assyria MI. The couple made their home together on the family farm in Nashville.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife, Jean; his two children, Paula Reid, and Scott (Julie) Reid; three grandchildren; three great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Robert, Rod, Roland, Jim, Richard, Bernard, Eva Phoebe and an infant sister.

The family received visitors on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, at Daniels Funeral Home Nashville.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville, MI. For further details please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net.

-

Funeral Services:

Marcelyn Yvonne Kelley, 88 years old, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2024. She was born December 5, 1935, in Charlotte, Michigan, the eldest of five children born to the union of Leo and Margaret (Powers) Baker. She attended CHS, graduating in 1953. Marcelyn married the love of her life, Sherman Kelley on January 9, 1954, at the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church where she was an active member for 72 years.

There are so many words to describe Marcelyn – compassionate, selfless, empathetic, generous, devoted, kind, lovely, optimistic, sincere, thoughtful, warm-hearted, wise, peacemaker, gentle, cheerful, considerate, graceful, inspiring, with very strong moral values. She was a wonderful cook, seamstress, friend, trip/event planner, entertainer, volunteer and American patriot. Most importantly, she was mom, grandma and great-grandma and her family was absolutely everything to her as she was everything to her family. Her grandchildren would say she was truly the best grandma in the entire world. Marcelyn loved playing cards and she was always very lucky, something all her family kidded her about. She was very competitive and even the grandkids knew that grandma probably wouldn’t let them win.

Marcelyn sold World Book encyclopedias for 20 years. It was important to her that children had a great set of learning books and she put her heart and soul into selling them. She never made much money selling because she wouldn’t pressure anyone, but she loved all the people she met along the way. Marcelyn volunteered at Hayes Green Beach Hospital for ten years and the Binder Park Zoo for 14 years. Her second home was the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church, where she gave her time selflessly cooking meals, singing in the choir, teaching Sunday School, and was an active member of her church circle. She also, participated in church camps, including a two-week trip to Puerto Rico. Marcelyn’s deep faith in her Lord Jesus Christ was everything to her.

Marcelyn is survived by her children, Kimberly (Randy) Howe, Kris (Jan) Kelley; grandchildren, Melissa (Sivad) Howard, Jason Whetstone, Skye Kelley, Chandler Kelley; great-grandchildren, Ashton Whetstone and Londyn Howard; sisters, Darlene Raymer and Rosemary (Dave) DeWaters; brother, Doyle (Jackie) Baker; sister-in law, Mary Jean Baker; brother-in-law, Dwight Pierce; several nieces and nephews; her special friend of over 70 years, Larry Towe and special friend. D.J. McGee. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Sherman Kelley; her brother, Daryl Baker; and brother-in-law, Robert Raymer.

Friends are encouraged to support the family by attending services or sharing memories on Marcelyn’s Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Sunday, March 3, at Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church, Charlotte. Funeral services were Monday, March 4, at 11:00 a.m. at Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church in Charlotte with Pastor Jack Conklin and family friend Jonathan White 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 Marcelyn’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 Heartland Hospice Monroe or the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

-

Funeral Services:

Carolyn Julia O’Connor went to be with her Lord and Savior on March 4, 2024. Carolyn was born in Hastings on December 13, 1941, to James and Dorothy O’Connor. After high school she attended nursing school in Battle Creek, where she then lived for over sixty years. She obtained her LPN and began working at Community Hospital. It didn’t take long to determine work in the Emergency Department was her calling. In 1982 she earned her Registered Nurse certification. She retired from Battle Creek Health System in February 2004 after 43 years in nursing. Even after retiring, she continued to volunteer weekly at the hospital until 2020.

Carolyn treasured many close friendships over the years and loved to travel with her friends. She enjoyed every opportunity to get together with the girls for a meal or a show. Always a fun, supportive and thoughtful aunt, she enjoyed watching her nieces and nephews grow. She was extremely proud of the home she purchased and maintained herself. A fiercely independent woman, she rarely asked for help. She was a devoted Christian and lifelong member of Grace Lutheran Church in Hastings.

In 2021, Carolyn moved from her home to Hope Landing in Charlotte to be closer to family and receive the care she needed. She was thankful for all the wonderful staff and comfortable environment. She lived a full life of service to others and found it difficult to accept any help as she grew increasingly unable to do things for herself. Additional care in her final weeks was given by Heart to Heart Hospice who treated her with profound grace and dignity.

Carolyn is survived by her older sisters, June Baatz of Suttons Bay (formerly of Maple City) and Shirley Beck of Charlotte (formerly of Hastings), her niece Peggy (Mike) Leggett of Traverse City, nephew David (Ronda) Beck of Charlotte, and nephew-in-law Charles (Robin) Floramo of Midlothian, IL. She is also mourned by great nieces and nephews Maria, Aleah and Derrien Leggett, Angela (Sylvia) Floramo, Joseph Floramo, Ashley and Justin Beck.

She was preceded in death by her parents, niece Linda (Beck) Floramo, brothers-in-law Robert Baatz, and Walter Beck.

The family encourages those wishing to make a contribution in her memory to support Grace Lutheran Church (239 E North St, Hastings MI 49058) or Heart to Heart Hospice of Lansing (2260 E Saginaw St, Suite A, East Lansing, MI 48823).

In honoring Carolyn’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net.