Obituaries
Janice Elaine Ikle
Janice Elaine Ikle, age 77 of Port Orange, Florida, formerly Charlotte, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly on July 25, 2025, in Hastings, Michigan, while visiting family.
Janice was born in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, on April 21, 1948, daughter of the late Bernard and Dorothy (Prowdley) Tice.
She was raised in the Lansing area and attended Dewitt Public Schools graduating from Dewitt High School in 1966. Shortly after completing her education, Janice married Robert Secord, and the couple had three children, Robert Jr., Joey, and Wayne.
Janice spent her working career as a Postal Service Clerk operating the mail sorting machinery at the USPS on Collins Road in Lansing for over 30 years before retiring in 2005.
On June 20, 1981, Janice married Scott Ikle and for over 39 years the couple made their home together in the Charlotte area. Janice and Scott enjoyed the Charlotte community and volunteered at the Eaton Community Palliative Care facilities and Charlotte Sirens for many years. After retiring Janice and Scott spent winters in Florida before making it their permanent residence in 2021.
Janice and Scott were motorcycle enthusiasts and were active members of the Gold Wing Road Riders Association (GWRRA) for over 20 years. Together, they have visited over 26 states on their Gold Wing, often venturing out of Michigan with no particular place to go. One of their adventures involved a plane ride to Las Vegas where the couple rented a motorcycle and toured the Western United States.
During her spare time, Janice loved playing Bingo and would find a game at least once a week. She also enjoyed watching daytime television, action-comedy movies, listening to Elvis Presley, and knitting hats for the homeless.
She loved her sons deeply and was very proud of her grandchildren. Janice was a dog lover, and over the years has enjoyed the companionship of several different breeds of dogs most recently her Shitzu “Bella”.
Janice is survived by her beloved husband Scott; their children, Robert Jr. (Laurie) Secord, Joey (Judy) Secord, Wayne (Robin) Secord, Scott (Kyleen) Ikle, Melissa Ikle; sisters, Carolyn (Ed) Reed, Margie (Scott) Glashower, Sue Tice, Cindy Tice; and sister-in-law Cherie (Bruce) Griffin, 13 grandchildren, and five great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her infant brother and sister.
Memorial donations can be made in Jan’s name to Siren/Eaton Shelter, 520 Robinson St., Charlotte, MI 48813 or Eaton Community Palliative Care at 2675 S. Cochran Rd. Charlotte, MI 48813.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home – Hastings, conveniently located at 1401 North Broadway, Hastings, MI. For further details, please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net.
Gary Edward Wichman
Gary Edward Wichman, 73 years old, passed away on August 3, 2025, and was a loving husband, father, grandfather, community leader and dedicated athlete.
Gary passed away at home surrounded by family on Sunday August 3, 2025 after a long battle with cancer. He was born May 24, 1952 to Edward and Loretta Wichman of Lansing, Michigan and grew up exploring the city on his bike with his beloved younger brother Mike.
Gary graduated from Everett High School in 1970 where he played football, basketball, golf, and track. He attended Kalamazoo College where he was the quarterback for the football team his freshmen year, then transferred to Michigan State University where he received his Bachelor’s degree. Gary received his MBA from University of Virginia.
Gary was a tremendous athlete throughout his life. He played basketball, softball, and golf long into adulthood. He completed the Chicago Marathon and 14 years of the Dick Allen Lansing to Mackinac bicycle ride, better known as the DALMAC.
Gary shared his love of sports on and off the field. He coached youth football, basketball, and t-ball for many years.
Gary was a strong community advocate and had great passion for Eaton Rapids. He was instrumental in securing funds for Eaton Rapids downtown revitalization, creating the riverwalk, and bringing new business to the city of Eaton Rapids. Gary served as Vice President of Eaton Rapids School Board and started the Eaton Rapids Education Fund, Eaton Rapids City Council, Eaton Rapids Community Alliance-Teen Space (Board Treasurer), Founder of Eaton Rapids Development Corp., DDA-Downtown Development Authority, Eaton Community Health Alliance, First United Methodist Church Finance Committee, Kiwanis Club, Kiwanis Spring Brook Nonprofit Housing Association, City of Eaton Rapids Planning Commission, Eaton Community Heritage Foundation, Eaton Rapids Historical Foundation, Michigan Main Street Community, and Founding member of SOM.
Gary worked for PNC Bank/National City/ First of America/ American Bank & Trust for over 40 years, and was known for his hard work ethic and strong integrity, while also creating humorous skits at company meetings.
Gary was a music enthusiast and was a gifted accordion player, air guitarist, and air drummer. He loved spending time in the Eaton Rapids Paddle Club, coordinating over 40 years of euchre tournaments and spending time on Michigan’s lakes and shoreline.
Gary purchased many kayaks for his 12 grandkids to enjoy at their family lake house. He loved swimming across the lake to visit his lifelong friend and playing instruments around the bonfire.
Gary is survived by his wife Cheryl (Mock) Wichman; son Matt (Ashley) Wichman; daughters, Amy (Lyn) Wichman-Ovalle, Bethany (Daniel) Wichman-Buescher, Erin (Hunter) Wichman-Wyble; grandchildren, Hayleigh Townsend, Juliana Griffin, Avery Ovalle, Kaelin Griffin, Noah Ovalle, Brooklyn Griffin, Skylar Wichman, Logan Wichman, Ari Wichman, Eli Wichman-Buescher, Marley Wichman-Buescher, Willow Wyble; brother Michael (Mary) Wichman; and many nieces and nephews.
He was an intentional speaker and a thoughtful, attentive listener, guided by his strong Christian faith. He believed in making meaningful, authentic connections with others and approached every conversation with sincerity and grace. His faith shaped the way he lived, served, and loved. Despite being deeply involved in his community, he always made his family a priority. He never missed a dance recital, school play, game, or ceremony, his children and grandchildren could always count on him to be there, offering his steadfast love, support, and encouragement.
Most of all, Gary cherished the time he spent with his beloved wife of 47 years, Cheryl. He loved serenading her with Elvis songs, exploring both domestic and international destinations, and discovering hidden gems in small towns especially those rich in art, good food, and local wineries. Together, this dynamic duo poured their hearts into Cheryl’s passion project, the Teen Space Teen Center, working side by side to make a lasting impact on the lives of local youth.
Visitation will be at 10 a.m. First United Methodist Church of Eaton Rapids, 600 S. Main Street, Eaton Rapids on Monday, August 11, followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. Memorial luncheon to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Eaton Rapids Teen Space Teen Center at eatonrapidscommunityalliance.org/#post-64
Rocky Gordon Irelan
Rocky Gordon Irelan of Eaton Rapids, passed away on July 28, 2025, at the age of 74. Rocky was born in Lansing, Michigan on May 22, 1951, the son of Edward and Donna (Austin) Irelan. He was a 1971 graduate of Eaton Rapids High School. After graduation, Rocky joined the United States Navy and served in the Vietnam War. Following his honorable military service, Rocky transitioned to a successful career at General Motors, where he worked until his retirement in 2005. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he was a man who relished the joys of the outdoors. Rocky was an avid hunter and fisherman, skills he learned and perfected over many years. His love for nature was equally matched by his passion for mechanics, as he found contentment and challenge in working on vehicles of all shapes and sizes. One of his favorite pastimes was camping at his property up north, where he would enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Above all else, Rocky loved to spend time with his grandkids, he took great pride in being a papa.
He is survived by his children, Monnica (Jacob) Krawczyk of Florida, Rocky (Cyrene) Irelan II of Jackson; grandchildren, Elliahna Krawczyk, Chiara Irelan, Rocky Irelan III, Abraham Krawczyk; siblings, Donald (Lynne) Irelan, Edna Umbarger. Rocky was preceded in death by his wife, Pamela Irelan in 2013; father, Edward Irelan; mother, Donna Morris; stepfather, Carl Morris; sister, Vicki Witzke; brother, Raymond Morris.
A Memorial Service 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 donor’s choice of charity in loving memory of Rocky Gordon Irelan. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.
Elizabeth Ann Guilford
Elizabeth Ann Guilford of Eaton Rapids, peacefully passed away on August 1, 2025, at the age of 80. Elizabeth was born in Battle Creek, Michigan on February 8, 1945, the daughter of Irvin and Jessie (Guthrie) Cochran. She had numerous hobbies that included working on jigsaw puzzles, playing euchre and cribbage, weeding her beautiful flower gardens and watching the hummingbirds and butterflies that visited her gardens. Elizabeth spent many winters in Texas until her husband George passed away in 2020 and spent the last three winters in Weston, Florida with family and friends. She loved ice cream, as she said, “it filled in the cracks”, and loved the color purple. She adored her grandchildren and created a lot of fond memories with all of them. She left many stories and life lessons for the family to enjoy and share.
Elizabeth is survived by her daughters, Vicki (Mark) Sheffield of Eaton Rapids, Judy (Steven) Sharpe of Eaton Rapids; grandchildren, Logan (Cassidy) Sheffield, Parker Sheffield, Morgan Sharpe, and Marissa Sharpe; great grandchildren, Lincoln and Bennett Sheffield; sister-in-law, Lynda Cochran; along with numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, George Guilford; siblings, Barbara Jean O’Herron and Roger Louis Cochran.
Funeral services were 11 a.m. Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel. Visitation was on Tuesday from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. and Wednesday one hour prior to the service. Interment will be held in Abscota Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Dementia Society of America, Post Office Box 600, Doylestown, PA 18901. To leave condolences for the family please visit our website, www.millsfuneral.com.
Timothy James Hart
“The time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight; I have finished my race. I have kept the faith.” — II Timothy 4:6-7.
Timothy James Hart completed his journey in this life on August 2, 2025 at the age of 81. Born to parents Perry and Lillian Hart at Grace Hospital in Detroit, where his older brothers Danny and Teddy were also born. Tim graduated from Union City High School in 1961 and joined the U.S. Navy in November 1961. He was stationed on board the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Saratoga CVA-60 in navigation and was discharged in November 1964. After his discharge Tim worked three years for Meijer as a dairy and frozen food manager, then was hired in the plant security department of Fisher Body Kalamazoo and was later promoted to Relief Sgt., from which Tim retired after 28 years, in 1995.
The greatest thing to happen in Tim’s life came on December 21, 1974, when he was convicted by the Holy Spirit of his sinful life, sincerely repented, received Jesus Christ as his Savior, and began his life from there on as a Christian. He served in several capacities in four separate Protestant churches and as a counselor at two Billy Graham Crusades. He also handed out more than 700 “This Was Your Life” Christian Tracts.
In 1988, after a failed first marriage to Jacquie (Miller) Hart, Tim married Tina (Goff) Crozier and gained three stepdaughters; Lisa, Laura, and Angela. Tina retired from MSU in 2009 after 23 years of service and began their retirement enjoying wonderful vacations together.
Tim is survived by his wife Tina; brother, Ted (Bobbi) Hart; stepdaughters, Lisa (Russell) Green, Laura (Michael) Fuller; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by stepdaughter, Angela Crozier; brother, Danny (Karen) Hart; and his parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Tim’s family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Thursday, August 7 from 10:00 a.m. to noon and Funeral following at noon in the gardens of Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, and burial will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, Michigan. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Samaritan’s Purse or The Haven in Battle Creek. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Kathleen Ann Gardener
Kathleen Ann Gardener, age 75, of Olivet, passed away on August 4, 2025. She fought with relentless strength until the very end. Surrounded by her family, she passed peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of fierce devotion, resilience, and grace. Born in Lansing, Michigan on January 9, 1950, to Elmer and Patricia (Masseau) Neff, Kathleen lived a life marked by compassion, creativity, and a fire that never dimmed.
She had a smile that could light up a room; radiant, comforting, and unforgettable. It was the kind of smile that made you feel seen, safe, and loved. Whether she was tending her garden, comforting someone in grief, or simply sharing a quiet moment, Kathleen brought warmth and beauty into every space she entered.
Kathleen’s love for gardening was more than a hobby, it was a reflection of her nurturing spirit. So profound was her connection to nature that she embraced the name “Gardener,” a tribute to the beauty she cultivated in her life and in the lives of others. Her gardens bloomed with purpose, and she often used her talents to support charitable causes, including the Children’s Miracle Network and other organizations close to her heart.
A gifted cosmetologist and educator, Kathleen taught at Wright Beauty Academy in Kalamazoo and Battle Creek until 1996, inspiring countless students with her skill and warmth. She had a knack for making others feel beautiful; inside and out and her generosity extended far beyond the classroom. After enduring the unimaginable loss of three daughters, Kathleen became a beacon of comfort for others navigating grief, always putting their needs before her own.
One of the most profound ways Kathleen expressed her love and empathy was through the grave blankets she hand-crafted each winter for over 30 years. What began as a way to keep her daughters “warm” in spirit became a mission of comfort for grieving families across the country. Each blanket was made with care, delivered personally, even to Arlington National Cemetery and served as a quiet, powerful gesture of remembrance and love.
Kathleen was the emotional center of her family; the one they turned to for guidance, comfort, and connection. Her daily phone calls, thoughtful gestures, and creative spirit brought light and love into the lives of her children and grandchildren. She did not need big gatherings to make an impact, she was the heartbeat of her family, always present, always giving.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 30 years, Charles Sharp; her children, Jennifer (Jason) Peterson, Michelle Davis, Andrea Davis, and Aaron Davis; ten beloved grandchildren; Kylie, Wesley, Michaela, Trenton, Elle, Akera, Gavin, Noah, Lukas, and Ashley; and her siblings, Delbert “Jim” Neff, Patti Soblesky, and Robert Neff. She was preceded in death by her daughters, Rachel, Cassandra, and Gabrielle; as well as her parents Elmer and Patricia Neff.
Kathleen’s family invites friends to honor her memory by attending services or sharing stories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Funeral services were on Friday, August 8, 11:00 a.m. with visitation one hour prior at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte, officiated by Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop, with interment following at Bosworth Cemetery. The service will be webcast for those unable to attend in person. You may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Kathleen’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone).
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Children’s Miracle Network, a cause Kathleen deeply believed in. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Grant Russell Morse
Grant Russell Morse, a man who lived with the glass half full, died on Thursday, July 31, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Grant, 80, of Potterville, was born on September 26, 1944, in Lansing, the son of Russell and Dora (McDonough) Morse. On September 1, 1963, Grant married Sandra “Sandi” Lee Derragon, and together the couple spent the next 51 years creating their legacy until her passing in 2014. He proudly served four years in the Air Force. In 1967 upon his discharge from the Air Force, Grant began working in the family trade as a “Tin Knocker” for Sheet Metal Workers Local 7. He proudly worked as a sheet metal worker until his retirement in 2001. Grant also worked alongside his wife as the cheapest employee for The Mor Agency. Hobbies that Grant enjoyed included working outside around his property, keeping everything neat and tidy, watching golf, following Michigan State athletics, and hosting family gathering at the house. Grant achieved many things in life, but nothing made him prouder than his marriage and the family they created.
Grant is survived by his children, Lori (Sean McAllister) Pajor and Brad (Cari) Morse; grandchildren, Christopher (Carissa) Morton, Rachelle Miller, Amanda (Steve) Mouzakis, and Chelsey (Justin) Hoffman; 10 great-grandchildren; sisters, Denise McLellan and Kandi Spaulding; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, Sandi; brothers, Norman Morse and Brett Morse; and his parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Grant’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A graveside service will be held on Friday, August 15, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Benton Township Cemetery. On Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. a Celebration of Life will be held at Grant’s house. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Cindy Lou Shaver
Cindy Lou Shaver, a strong-willed wife, mother, and grandmother, died on Wednesday, July 30, 2025. Cindy, 75, of Charlotte, was born on July 23, 1950, in Charlotte, the daughter of Warren and Etoile (Sattler) Priesman. In 1967 Cindy married James Shaver and together they spent the next 58 years creating lasting memories. Cindy enjoyed the simple pleasures in life such as hunting for mushrooms, wildlife watching on her property, spending time with her family, and in her younger years playing euchre.
Cindy is survived by her husband, James; children, Donna Lynn Zaluga, and James Shaver Jr.; three grandchildren, Eric Batt, Joshua Zaluga, and Dalton Zaluga; seven great-grandchildren, Joey, Jackson, Emberlynn, Brooklynn, Nathaniel, Emmett, and Gracelynn; sisters, Kathleen Eastman, Sisaleen Boyd, Judy Reed, and Linda Keith; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents; and brothers, Michael Priesman and Dennis Sisco.
Friends are encouraged to support Cindy’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A visitation was held on Monday, August 4, from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home, followed by a graveside service at 11 a.m. at Gresham Cemetery in Charlotte. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Helping Hands Food Pantry in Charlotte. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Barbara Jean Peterman
Barbara Jean Peterman. 94, of Charlotte MI, a woman of remarkable strength, kindness and unwavering Faith, died peacefully with family by her side on Monday, July 21, 2025.
Barbara was born August 2, 1930 in Superior, WI to Carl Terry Bong and Dora (Bryce) Bong. One of nine children, she grew up on a farm and held the beliefs of hard work and “making do” her entire life. Following High School graduation, Barbara spent a summer working at Glacier National Park, an experience that instilled in her a lifelong love for the outdoors. She married love of her life, Leonard Frank Peterman, on August 31, 1951 in Poplar, WI. The following year she was graduated with a Bachelor Degree in education from Superior College and taught two years in elementary schools in Duluth, Minnesota and Appleton, Wisconsin. Over the years, the Peterman family moved 10 times to different locations throughout the Midwest, following Leonard’s career with Montgomery Wards. Barbara continued teaching in many of the cities, while also raising four girls. They moved to Michigan in 1973, where Barbara worked in a secretarial position at Meijer Warehouse, retiring in 1991.
Barbara was very active in the Lutheran Church, and especially enjoyed singing in the choir. She loved sewing and craft projects, and was active in 4-H both as a member and Junior Leader for over 12 years. She also loved traveling and camping with Leonard and the children, culminating after their retirement in a month long camping trip, in which Barbara and Leonard traveled well over 2,000 miles and visited stunning national parks and family all over the United States. While living in Wisconsin, Barbara developed a consuming love of sports, beginning with the Green Bay Packers and after moving to Michigan, all Michigan State sports. (We have no idea how the Spartans will do now, without her support!)
Barbara will be remembered as a caring person of faith, leaving behind a legacy of love and service that will forever be cherished by her family and friends. Her life was a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of church and family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and in 2023, great-great grandmother. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Barbara is survived by her daughters, Wanda Atkinson, Debra Johnston, Lana Reis; and son-in-law, Randall Combs; five grandchildren, Brian Bywater, James Atkinson, Laura Atkinson, Jourdan Reis and Tony Reis; three great-grandchildren, Samantha Little, Sage Friar, and Koralee Sweet; and great-great granddaughter Olive Little. She is predeceased by her daughter, Cindy Combs; grandchildren, Shana Lee and Brandee Combs; and her parents; and all eight of her siblings.
Friends are encouraged to support Barbara’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A Memorial Service will be held on August 23, 2025, visitation will be held at 11 a.m. visitation and service at 12 noon at Peace Lutheran Church in Charlotte with Pastor Neil Brady officiating. As per her wishes, she asks that all attending to wear comfortable attire from their favorite sports teams, Spartan lovers especially! The service 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 Barbara’s Tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer, or Media from your smartphone. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Peace Lutheran Church in Charlotte. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte MI.
Narcisse Joseph Jean Cantin
Narcisse (Nelson) Joseph Jean Cantin, age 77, born October 6, 1947 in Windsor, Ontario, raised in Holt, Michigan and from Charlotte, Michigan and Athens, GA has passed away peacefully in Watkinsville, GA into the arms of Jesus on July 31, 2025, after 18 years of treatments at the cancer center.
Nelson was a devoted husband of 55 years to Melva Muncey Cantin, father, and loving grandfather. He graduated Holt High School in 1966. He worked at Servomation, Nielsen Construction, General Motors, Crazy Steve’s, Cantin’s Corner, Century 21, Coldwell Banker, RE/MAX Real Estate Professionals, RE/MAX Home Advantage, and RE/MAX Top Professionals. He had 40 years in construction, real estate, and developing. He was the previous Broker/Owner of RE/MAX Home Advantage, Inc. in Charlotte, Michigan. He developed Mott Meadows, Autumn Woods, and part of Oakridge Condominiums (many streets named after family members) before moving to Georgia to be by family. He had a passion to help others realize the dream of home ownership. Nelson had an eye to see development become reality by working with banks, title companies, and architects. He was a great leader to his agents and office associates with a positive attitude. He strived to stay up to date with technology and marketing tools. He watched HGTV until the last day of life to stay close to the industry he loved.
Nelson was an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Charlotte, MI. His girls attended St. Mary’s Catholic School. He was devoted to his Catholic faith and enjoyed all the parishioners. Nelson helped with the Fish Frys during lent and the Spaghetti Dinner. Melva and Nelson helped many times with a Valentine’s Dance and flowers. He often picked up the donuts for Sundays Mass. Nelson was a previous Grand Knight with Knight of Columbus in Charlotte, Michigan. He helped with the development of the parish addition to give space for weddings, funerals, and event space. Nelson spent many working volunteer hours with Knights on the development of the Right to Life Memorial Garden dedicated to the unborn located next to the church. Nelson and Melva Cantin joined St. Joseph Catholic Church in 2008, when they moved to Athens, Georgia. Nelson was a part of the 4th Degree, Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed handing out American Flags at a yearly fundraiser for Veteran’s Day. He attended the couple’s dinners for Knights of Columbus. He attended his grandchildren’s , Dylan and Callie Dellinger, school and fundraiser events at St. Joseph Catholic School and Monsignor Donovan Catholic High School.
Nelson loved life and people even more. Nelson and Melva had many parties to celebrate all occasions and holidays with family and friends. If there was a party or event, then he wanted to attend. He was on a bowling league, golf league, hunted, skied, played cards, and ran 5Ks in his younger years. He was adventurous and went camping with his family for years in St. Joseph, Canada above Lake Huron, hiked Yosemite National Park, and Parasailed in Hawaii, took the Black Helicopters into the volcanoes in Hawaii, Hunted Elk in Colorado, and walked on fire rocks during a promotional speaker event. Life was definitely worth taking chances and keeping faith in the Lord along the way. After moving, he became a UGA fan, Go Dawgs!
Nelson loved his two daughters and talked to them almost every day. His smile was contagious and something we all looked forward to seeing. He was overwhelmed with joy from his four grandchildren.
He loved hearing about their day and being involved in any way possible whether attending school, sporting events, or facetime on the phone because of distance.
Nelson had three siblings that he cherished. He helped with his younger brothers, Steve and Joe Cantin, when their father passed away his senior year. He worked on many business plans with Steve throughout the years. Joe and Nelson hunted, golfed, and attended Knights of Columbus events together. His beautiful sister, Louise, had many years of New Year’s celebrations together. The family sibling bond was close all the way to the end.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Narcisse Nelson Cantin and Lorna Whalen. He is also preceded in death by his wife, the love of his life for 55 years, Melva Muncey Cantin.
He is survived by two daughters, Stacie Cantin (Celebration, FL), Mandy (Jansen) Dellinger (Bogart, GA). Four grandchildren: Dylan Dellinger, Callie Dellinger, Andre Belokonev, and Lana Belokonev. Sister, Louise (Jack) Thomas (Middleburg, FL); brothers, Steve Cantin (Holt, MI) and Joe (Mary) Cantin (Lansing, MI). Many cousins, nieces, nephews, and family friends.
A viewing was scheduled for Friday, August 8, 2025, at 8 a.m. Lord & Stephens Funeral Home in Watkinsville, GA. Followed with a 9:30 a.m. Rosary and Mass at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Color Guard Knights of Columbus present. The family and friends after mass will proceed to Oconee Memorial Park for prayer and the burial. The Celebration of Life Luncheon will be at Club Estates in Statham, GA. Cards can be sent to: Mandy Dellinger, 1011 Pops Way, Bogart, GA 30622.
Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, WEST, Watkinsville, is in charge of the arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com.