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Funeral Services:

Robert E Lee Eaton

Robert “Rob” E Lee Eaton, a man who was very funny, humble, grateful, and respectful. Rob passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 3, 2025. Rob, 46, of Charlotte, was born June 13, 1978 in Lansing, the son of Robert and Sheila (Eaton) Hall. He was a very strong man. Rob was a two-time cancer survivor and never stopped fighting. On June 20, 2016, Rob married Ashley Rueckert and together they created many lasting memories. Family meant the world to Rob. He was his children’s biggest fan. Rob loved all sports, especially football, and he was a lifelong faithful 49ers fan. Hobbies that he enjoyed included attending his children’s sporting events, cuddling with his dog, Paws, playing fantasy football, watching MSU, fishing, shooting guns, listening to music, and providing a good laugh with a dad joke. Rob was a very intellectual man who loved technology and diagnosing automotive problems. He earned an Associate’s Degree in Computer Technology from Lansing Community College. Rob worked as a Supervisor at Alro Steel for several years, prior working at Meridian Magnesium, and Linn Products. Above all Rob loved the Lord and was proud that he taught his children to love the Lord as well.

Rob is survived by his wife, Ashley; children, Devon, Braylen, Camden, Ariana, Dominik, and Mya; grandchildren, Sebastian, Mateo, and Gianna; parents, Robert and Sheila Hall; sister, Deidra Schiavi; his best friend, Paws; mother-in-law, Kim (Bill) Rounds; sisters-in-law, Tori, Jenna, and Alissa; brother-in-law, R.J.; uncles, Tim and Fred; niece, Aaliyah; nephew, Micah; and several extended family members and dear friends.  He was predeceased by his father-in-law, Ray; grandmothers, Pauline, Pat, and Stella; grandfathers, Gene and Bert; uncles, Kevin and Jimmy; aunts, Debbie, Peggy, Chris, and Stephanie. 

Friends are encouraged to support Robert’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Sunday, April 6, 2025, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services were Monday, April 7, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. 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 Robert’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, memorial contributions are suggested to his family. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Brian “Muggs” Wilmore, passed away unexpectedly on April 6, 2025, in his hometown of Charlotte. He was born on March 1, 1956, in Charlotte. Brian graduated from Charlotte High School in 1974. He furthered his education by earning an associate’s degree from Lansing Community College. On February 17, 1990, he married Carla Ann Maurer at the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church. 

Brian dedicated many years of his life to working at O-I Glass, where he was known for his commitment and easy-going nature. He loved being outdoors and had a particular passion for hunting and fishing. One of his favorite traditions was the yearly salmon fishing trip he took up north, an event he eagerly anticipated each year. He also enjoyed playing Keno on Thursday afternoons with his best friend, Randy Lee Grundstrom.

Family was of utmost importance to Brian. He cherished his time with his wife, Carla, and he adored his sons, Tom and Andy. His grandson, Vincent, held a special place in his heart as well.

Brian is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Carla; his sons Tom Wilmore, Andy (Rylie) Wilmore; his grandson Vincent Wilmore; his parents, Clare and Joyce Wilmore; his siblings, Ilene (Garth) Matonis, Neal (Kim) Wilmore, Wendy (Jim Martin) Wilmore, and Laurel Wilmore. He also leaves behind his best friend, Randy Lee Grundstrom and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded death by his brothers, Barry, Kenny, and Alan Wilmore.

In keeping with the wishes of the family, cremation has taken place, and no services will be held. 

Those desiring may make contributions in Brian’s memory to the Gresham United Methodist Church 5055 Mulliken Road, Charlotte, MI 48813 or Charlotte High School Athletics 378 State Street, Charlotte, MI 48813.

To view Brian’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:

Mitchell Dale Towns was born in Eaton Rapids on October 28, 1952 to Clare & Anne (Winslow) Towns. Mitchell passed at home on April 4, 2025. He grew up working on both family farms, was active in 4-H, he played football and basketball throughout high school, graduating in 1971. With family, he hunted, fished, traveled to horse shows, car races, and concerts. Mitchell was a huge MSU sports and Lions fan. He played softball for years for his favorite bar and always his office, Abies. He spent three years in the army garnering an early out for voluntarily spending a year in Korea on the DMZ. Mitch worked in the insulation business as well as being a carpenter and starting his own business. After being injured in a construction accident in 2019 he spent his time enjoying his family and friends especially his grandchildren and great nephews.

Mitch is survived by his sister, Ava Towns; daughter, Amber (Tyler Taber) Hensley; grandchildren, Nick Kane, Easton Hensley, Carter Taber, Gabriella Taber, Alicia Wright, Jaden Wright, Angelina VanOveren; stepsister, Nancy (Tim) Propst; stepbrother, Bob (Kathy) Cantine; Aunt, Norine Winslow; sister-in-law, K. Simon Towns, Kari Hummel and several cousins, nephews, a niece, and two great nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather, David Cantine; infant brother, brother, Michael Towns; and partner, Krista Vercruysse.

No services are planned as this time. To share memories or leave online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Funeral Services:

Rosemary A. Cochrane, a beacon of loving kindness and thoughtful grace, passed away surrounded by the warmth of her family in Charlotte, MI, on March 26, 2025. Born on July 17, 1925, in Lansing, MI, Rosemary laid down an enduring legacy of love, service, and dedication throughout her ninety-nine years. 

A proud graduate of Sunfield High School in 1943, Rosemary’s work ethic was evident early on. Soon after, she became a valued employee in food service at Michigan State University. Her dedication to family called her back to the farm, where she embraced the role of a nurturing mother and a diligent farmer’s wife. 

Rosemary’s community spirit shone through her active involvement with the Order of the Eastern Star #161. Beyond that, her enduring compassion led her to volunteer at the Eaton County Medical Care Facility Palliative Care, touching many lives with her unwavering support and gentle care. 

Her memory will be cherished by her beloved grandchildren, Michael Dixon, Lynette (Christopher Johnson) Rider, and William (Colette) Frith; seven great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; nephew Grant Lott; and great-nieces Maria (John) King and Shawnda Lott. Rosemary’s love story with her family is a testament to her beautiful heart, now carried forward by each generation. 

Preceded in death by her parents Albert and Lera Lott, her loving husband Robert, daughter Sharen Frith, brother Albert H. Lott, and nephew Alan S. Lott. Rosemary’s legacy is one of enduring love, a legacy that will continue to flourish in the hearts of those she touched. Rosemary will be deeply missed yet eternally remembered as the embodiment of love and thoughtfulness that guided her through a well-lived life. 

Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m. with an OES service beginning at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, April 4, 2025, at the Mills Funeral Home, Peters & Murray Chapel, 301 E. Jefferson St., Grand Ledge, MI 48837. 

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Mills Funeral Home, Peters & Murray Chapel, Grand Ledge, with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Freemire Cemetery, Sunfield. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be given in her name to Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation Elderly Home or Fernwood Christian (Youth) Camp. For those sending flowers, the family kindly request potted plants that can be cherished in her remembrance. For online condolences please visit www.millsfuneral.com 

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Funeral Services:

Rene Valeire Van Neste, a man who devoted his life to his family, and the Lord, died on Monday, March 31, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Rene, 81, of Charlotte, was born on January 3, 1944, in Albion, the son of Gerald and Celina (Martin) Van Neste. On December 14, 1968, Rene married Patricia Karpi and together they devoted their life to one another. Rene was a lifelong learner attending Michigan State University and later earning an Associate’s Degree after the family relocated to Florida. In his younger years Rene worked on the family potato and onion farm in Mulliken. He loved being able to work alongside his family on the farm. Rene was a caregiver, he cared for his parents when their health declined. He also cared for his wife for several years. Rene learned the skills needed to tend to Patricia’s needs in her final days. Most recently Rene worked at Meijer in Charlotte. He loved his work at Meijer because he was able to talk with customers. Rene worked at Meijer for 22 years before his retirement in 2022.  

From his years of working on the family farm, Rene took on a passion for anything John Deere. He also enjoyed steam engines, being a civil war reenactor with his brothers, and trips to Nevada to hunt for the perfect rocks to tumble and turn into beautiful jewelry. Rene could also be found cruising around his yard on his zero turn. Above all Rene was strong in his faith. He was a longtime member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte, and a proud Knights of Columbus 4th degree member. Along with his wife, Patricia, they made sure their children were raised in a strong Catholic faith and tradition. However, once his grandchildren were born, they became his biggest passion.

Rene is survived by his children, Steven (Maureen) Van Neste, Lisa (Brad) Fears; grandchildren, Jeff, Mae, and Zachary; and several extended family members. He was predeceased by his wife, Patricia; siblings, Germanie Suurs, Gerald Van Neste, and Roy Van Neste; and his parents. 

Friends are encouraged to support Rene’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Wednesday, April 2, 2025, from 5-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. A funeral mass was held on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop 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 Rene’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 St. Mary Catholic Church. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Robert “Bob” Earl Steiner, 96, of Charlotte, died on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at the Eaton Community Palliative Care. Bob, was born on May 18, 1928, the son of Albert and Opal (Penny) Steiner. He graduated from Potterville High School in 1947 and shortly after enlisted in the United States Army serving in the Korean War until his discharge in 1952. After his honorable discharge Bob began working for Fisher Body in the Upholstery Department for 30 years until his retirement in 1980. On May 4, 1962, Bob married Barbara MacKenzie and together they created many lasting memories unit her passing in 2011. After retirement Bob and Barbara lived in Honor, MI, and Florida. Before moving back to Charlotte to be by family. He was a lifelong Michigan Masons Potterville Lodge NO. 367. Hobbies that Bob enjoyed included, hunting, reading, Tigers Baseball, watching college basketball, watching western movies and games shows, working in his flower gardens and tending to his tomato plants. Above all Bob was proud that he was able to live independently for 14 years following the passing of his wife. 

Bob is survived by his stepchildren, Michael (Angela) Scott, Debbie Richardson; two grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; sister, Marjorie Warren; niece, Jodi Steiner; nephews, Mike Warren, Tom Warren; and many extended family members. He was predeceased by his wife, Barbara; brother, Richard (Barbara) Steiner; niece, Karen Steiner; brother-in-law, Lynn Warren; and his parents. 

Friends are encouraged to support Bob’s family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Dr. Bonnie Iris Rockafellow, 78, of Charlotte, a loving mother and grandmother of deep Faith, died peacefully at home on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. Dr. Rockafellow was born January 24, 1947 in Lake Odessa, the daughter of Gerald Leon and Rose Margaret (Cook) Augst.  She graduated from Lakewood High School in 1965 and earned her Bachelor Degree from Michigan State University. Soon after, she married the love of her life, Michael “Mick” J. Rockafellow on June 10, 1967 in Lake Odessa. She went on to earn her Master of Science degree at Indiana University as well as a Specialist in Reading from the University of Virginia. In 2002, she completed her Doctorate Degree from Michigan State University.

Dr. Rockafellow retired as an education consultant for the Michigan Department of Education in 2010.  During her time as an educator she taught in K-12 systems in Michigan, Indiana, Virginia, Pennsylvania; penal systems in Ohio and Virginia and higher education institutions in Michigan. In her spare time, she enjoyed travel and time in the outdoors, especially when accompanying Mick hunting and fishing.  She was an avid reader and had a creative flair for painting. She and Mick were devout members of Grace Brethren Church. Bonnie lived her life as a testament to her unwavering Faith in Jesus Christ. A devout Christian, she carried His love in her heart and shared it abundantly with those around her.  She walked in Faith, served with love, and embraced each day as a gift from the Lord.

Bonnie is survived by her children and their spouses, Andrew (Stephanie) Rockafellow of Charlotte, Daniel (Sarah) Rockafellow of Dimondale, Kristen (Jonathan) Jarvis of Hudsonville; three grandchildren, Claire Rockafellow, Autumn Rockafellow, and Chase Rockafellow; and several nieces and nephews.  She was predeceased by her husband Mick in 2017; brothers, Vaughn, Ernest and Owen Augst; sister, Geraldine Winsley; and her parents.

Friends are encouraged to support Bonnie’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Funeral Services will be held at Pray Funeral Home with Rev. Tim Potter officiating at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2025 with visitation from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. just prior. Interment will take place in Woodland Memorial Park in Woodland, MI.  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 Bonnie’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 St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.  The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Roger Lee Miller was born on Christmas day in 1942 to Floyd and Lydia (Thurovat) Miller. He graduated from Albion High School in 1960 and enlisted in the United States Air Force immediately after graduation. He worked for many years at the Lansing State Journal and retired as Manager of the Plate Making Department. A talented woodworker, he was a perfectionist and commonly gifted his creations to friends and family. With a need for speed, he was an avid car person, and his 1953 yellow Ford short box pickup was often recognized at car shows. A huge sports fan, Roger did not miss many games of his favorite teams, The Tigers, The Lions, and The Spartans. He was also a sports dad, coaching baseball for his boys and countless others, and he enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and challenging the refs on bad calls. Roger always spoke his mind and was independent and stubborn right up until the end of his life on March 29, 2025. He easily incorporated others into his extended family with his colorful banter and loved his people with all he had, as they did him.

Roger is survived by his children, Gregory (Maureen) Miller, Angela (Scott) Portt, six grandchildren, Stephanie, Joe, Brad, Madelyn, Patrick, and Abigail; four great-grandchildren, Macie, Presley, Parker, and Ava; siblings, Ron (Sylvia) Miller and Marie Bush. He was predeceased by his first wife, Elizabeth (Betsy); second wife, Elinor; son, Brent Miller; sister and brother-in-law, Pat (Ron) Elliot; and brother-in-law, Jack Bush.

Friends are encouraged to support Roger’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his tribute page, www.PrayFuneral.com. A memorial service is being planned for a later date. If desired, the family suggest memorial contributions to Make-A-Wish foundation or Feed the Children charity. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Keith Roy Haley, Jr., 69, of Bellevue, passed away on March 30, 2025 at his home in Bellevue, MI. He was born on July 3, 1955 to Keith Roy, Sr. and Cacilie (Fabri) Haley in Battle Creek, MI. Keith graduated from Bellevue High School in 1973, he then graduated from Western Michigan University in 1977 with a Bachelor’s Degree. He was a substitute teacher in Bellevue Schools and Calhoun County Area Career Center in Battle Creek and then worked in the maintenance department for Bellevue Public Schools for 30 years. On June 21, 1997, Keith married Ruth E. Iglehart at the Lutheran Church in Battle Creek. 

Keith was a severe weather spotter for Eaton County and a Ham Radio operator. He was a very talented man, he wrote a weather program, designed different projects, and did posters for Wendy’s while he worked there. Keith was very hands-on when he was working on his house and he was very creative with his computer. Keith was a very loyal man. His family would like to give a special thank you to Bellevue First Baptist Church.

Keith is survived by his loving wife, Ruth; special sons, Todd (Christiana) Dewhurst, Troy Dewhurst; grandson, Jaron Dewhurst; granddaughter, Gianna Dewhurst; great-granddaughter, Braelynn and sister, Tosca (James) Hable. He was preceded in death by his parents. 

Visitation will be held at Kempf’s of Bellevue on Friday, April 11, 2025 from 5:00 p.m.– 7:00 p.m.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Bellevue First Baptist Church, Bellevue, Michigan, with Reverend Don Francis, officiating. Burial will take place in the Bellevue Riverside Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Bellevue First Baptist Church. Arrangements have been entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services. Please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guestbook, to share memories and pictures with the family.  

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Funeral Services:

John Charles Engel, Jr., 76, of Charlotte, went to his final rest on Sunday, March 23, 2025. John was born August 7, 1948 to John and Edith (Harris) Engel. He was a graduate of the Naval Academy, Class of 1968, serving four years. He retired from Oldsmobile after more than 25 years. John loved working in the woods around his home and his rock collection, making Petoskey stone jewelry that his nieces loved. His neighbor said “he was a good neighbor and always knew what was happening around the neighborhood.” John also had a soft place in his heart for his dogs throughout the years.

John is survived by his sisters Barbara (Roger) Zerba of Olivet, Patricia (Kenneth) Hancock of Mulliken, and Joan Crowe of Charlotte; six nieces and nephews; many great and great-great nieces and nephews; his lifetime friend, Tony (Lisa) Lucio; close friend, Rod (Peggy) Sellen; and numerous other close friends. He is predeceased by his parents and niece, Denise Zerba Mayle. 

Friends are encouraged to support John’s family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Cremation has taken place and interment will be at Fort Custer National Cemetery. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Pawsibilities Pet Rescue in Olivet. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.