Obituaries
Sharon Lea Hammer
Sharon Lea Hammer of Tecumseh, Ontario, Canada, passed away on February 4, 2026. Born to Floyd and Avis (Pfeifer) Merritt on March 3, 1945, Sharon was a member of the Charlotte High School class of 1963. She attended the University of Michigan, the Plymouth College of Art and Design in Plymouth, England, and held a fine arts degree from Western Michigan University.
She is survived by husband Antony, daughters Kate (Michael) Lattimer of Vancouver, British Columbia, and Antonia Hammer of Hamilton, Ontario; grandchildren Grayson and Wilhemina; sister Kathlen Miyasato; nephews Aaron, Adam and Russell (Carli) Miyasato; and “The Cousins and Crew.”
A remembrance event will be held by the family on a future date.
Gloria Jean Sherwood
Gloria Jean Sherwood, 74, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2026, in Grand Ledge, Michigan, surrounded by the warmth of her family’s love. Born on May 17, 1951, in Davenport, Iowa, Gloria’s life was a tapestry of devotion to her family, her faith, and her community.
Gloria’s journey began as a proud graduate of West High School in 1969. Her professional path led her to a fulfilling career as an audiologist assistant at Hearing Health, and later, she extended her compassionate spirit to Home Health Care, where she supported countless individuals with her expertise and kindness.
Gloria’s life was a testament to her loving nature and her faith-filled heart. She found joy in simple pleasures like crocheting, baking, reading, and crafting. Gloria’s love for walking was an expression of her appreciation for nature and the world around her. Above all, Gloria cherished the moments spent with her grandchildren.
Gloria survived by her loving husband, Don H. Sherwood II, and their children Dion (Elizabeth) Shultz, David Shultz, Denise (Shawn) McKellar, Don Sherwood III, and Matthew (Maylon) Sherwood. Gloria’s legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren, Elijah, Isaac, Mary, Meghan, Kyle, Angel, Brendon, Kallista, Peyton, Riyan, Mattison, Donovan, Robert; and her great-grandchildren, Atom, Mavrik, and Jeffrey, who is on the way. She also leaves behind her caring sisters, Debbie Todd and Lisa; her brother, Michael Thomas; and several nieces and nephews.
Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Darlene (Grieser) Thomas, her son William Shultz, and her brothers George and Monty Thomas.
Visitation was be held at Mills Funeral Home, Peters & Murray Chapel on Friday, February 13, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral service will be Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Sebewa Church of God 12910 S. Goddard Rd., Lake Odessa, MI 48849, with a visitation one hour prior to the service; interment following the service at Union Cemetery, Grand Ledge.
Donations can be made in loving memory of Gloria to Sebewa Church of God or the Disabled American Veterans organization.
Christopher Lee Allen
Christopher Lee Allen, age 62, of Eaton Rapids, Michigan, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. He was born on October 3, 1963, in Lansing, Michigan, and graduated from Holt High School in 1981.
Chris was a man of many talents and interests. He was a business owner, auto technician, woodworker, musician, and a lifelong student of history. His love of history went beyond books, taking shape through years as a Civil War reenactor and through his work in reenactment planning and management.
Chris made his home in Eaton Rapids for more than 25 years and was devoted to the community he loved. He served with distinction as Board President of Michigan’s Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Hall and Museum in Eaton Rapids from 2023 to 2026, following ten years of service as Vice President. He also served as Chair of the Eaton Rapids Memorial Day Parade and generously volunteered his time and talents for numerous city-wide events, always working to preserve history and strengthen community spirit.
Chris was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Allen (1932–1998); his mother, Ruth (Crawford) Allen (1933–2019); his brother, Mark Allen (1961–2019); and his nephew, Jacob Allen (1987–1988).
He is survived by his wife, Genny Allen; his siblings, Kathy and Mike Ball of Greenfield, Indiana; Mike and Terrie Allen of Lansing; Tim Allen of Lansing; and many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
A memorial gathering will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the nonprofit Michigan’s G.A.R. Memorial Hall and Museum, 224 South Main Street, Eaton Rapids, Michigan 48827. To share memories or leave online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Richard Alwood
Richard (Dick) Alwood was born on July 10, 1936 to Leon and Madeline (Crandall) Alwood. Dick married his high school sweetheart Flora Snow in 1955, and they were married for 68 years. She predeceased him in 2022. Dick is survived by three children: Cindie (Sarah Schreiber), Marty (Tina) and Russell (Tracey); two grandsons Nathaniel and Patric; and step-grandchildren Tanner, Tessa, Karleigh, and Kane. Nate and Patric were the light of Dick and Flora’s life.
While serving in the Michigan National Guard, Dick worked at Michigan Bell Telephone as a linesman. He left Ma Bell and began working in real estate and eventually got his builder’s license and designed and built agricultural buildings. He received an award for his design of the horse facilities at Foxwoode Farm in Southeastern Michigan.
A definite jack of all trades, Dick could build and fix just about anything. In the1980s he bought a house on a lake in Barry County where he and Flo lived until her death. During that time, they both became members of the Delton Moose where Dick held various leadership positions including president. His dedication and service to the Moose Lodge was unwavering. Managing the installation of a new kitchen in the Lodge was his last big project and was completed in October 2025.
Dick and Flo spent winters in Florida but always looked forward to returning to their home in Michigan for family outings, fishing and pontoon riding around the lake. A die- hard Michigan State University sports fan, he never missed a game and attended several football games over the years and maybe a basketball game or two. The Detroit Lions were his second favorite team and many Sundays and holidays were spent yelling at the TV trying to cheer the Lions to victory.
Dick passed away on February 1, 2026, after a brief, intense illness. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 25 at 11 a.m. at the Delton Moose Lodge. He will be remembered for his love of family, his generosity, spirit, love of water, golf and sunshine. To his golfing buddies – he’ll meet you at the 19th hole. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends and people he had yet to meet.
Lucius Octavious Hayward
Lucius Octavious Hayward, age 82, of Holt, Michigan, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born November 1, 1943, the son of Lucius VanOctavious Hayward and Mildred Helen (Cross) Hayward. Lou was a lifelong resident of the Greater Lansing area. He was a 1962 graduate of Grand Ledge High School. On August 30, 1963, Lou married Karenlee Walters at the Pennway Church of God and God blessed them with over 61 years together.
Lou dedicated 25 years of his life to serving the Lansing, Michigan, community, retiring as a detective from the Lansing Police Department. His commitment earned the respect of all who worked with him. He didn’t know a stranger and greeted the world with a happy heart and a sharp, sarcastic sense of humor that could light up any room. Lou found his greatest peace in the simple joys of life—spending time with his family, camping in Charlevoix, attending church camp in St. Louis, casting a fishing line into quiet waters, and taking long drives through the countryside. Whether in uniform, fishing gear, or his Sunday best, Lou lived with warmth, laughter, and a deep appreciation for the people he loved. After the passing of his beloved wife, Lou missed her every day, and his family takes comfort in believing they are now reunited in heaven and singing together once again.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Karenlee; his parents; sister, Betty (Hayward) Lucus; brothers, M. Eugene Hayward, Gordon Hayward, Gary Hayward, and Ronald Hayward.
Lou is survived by his five children, Mark (Carrie) Hayward of Lansing, Michigan, Scott (Debbie) Hayward of Grand Ledge, Michigan, Rob (Sharon) Hayward of West Lafayette, Indiana, Chad (Michelle) Hayward of Noblesville, Indiana, Gina (Staci) Hayward of Olivet, Michigan; sister, Joanne (Gary) Ford.
Lou’s love of life lives on in his 21 beloved grandchildren: Christopher Hayward, Joshua (Kelsey) Hayward, Jeffrey (Cali) Hayward, Britan Hayward and Danielle, Miranda (Kevin) Lutz, Angelica (Ezekiel) Martinez, Kyle (Lauren) Hayward, Mark Edison Hayward, Kevin (Ashley) Hayward, Madeline (Kyle) Sehgers, Mackenzie (Adam) McLaughlin, Kelsie (Kage) Williams, Caroline Hayward, Ellerie Hayward, Liam Hayward, Russell (Alexis) Pliley, Brianna (Sam) Ryan, Bryce Pliley and Lauren Roberts, Rabecka Pliley and Gavin Clower, Megann (Jake) Henski and Matthew Davis. Lou was also the proud great-grandfather of 20.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Pastor Dave Perry officiating. The family will receive friends on Friday February 13 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Saturday.
A private burial will take place at Bosworth Cemetery at a later date.
To view Lou’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Bruce Hamilton Wakeman
Bruce Hamilton Wakeman, of Bellevue, Michigan, passed away on January 25, 2026, at Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall. He was born on April 3, 1951, the son of Arnold and Georgian (Hamilton) Wakeman.
Bruce married Charlene Anne Armstrong on February 15, 1975, at the Methodist Church in Charlotte, Michigan. Bruce retired from Pioneer Foundry Co., Inc. in Jackson, Michigan in 2014. He had a real love of cars; he did drag racing in his younger years. Bruce enjoyed putting together model cars throughout his life and later in life he would take Charlene for drives in his 94 Camaro z28 convertible. Bruce’s model cars were so finely detailed that when he took them to model car shows, he would often win awards for them.
Bruce will be mostly remembered as a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. His family would like to give a special thank you to the nurses and doctors at Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall for the wonderful care that he received while he was in their care and a special thank you to Morgan for the care she provided.
Bruce is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Charlene A. Wakeman, children, Kristin Wakeman, Scott (Allison) Wakeman; grandchildren, William (Natsumi) Wakeman, Ruby Wakeman, Sofia Beukema; great grandchildren, Kingston and Rua Wakeman; sister, Leslie Wakeman and brothers, Scott and Sean Wakeman.
In keeping with Bruce’s wishes, there are no services at this time, his family is planning on having a barbecue this summer to honor him. 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, and to share memories and pictures with the family.
Neil Edward Klaiss
Neil Edward Klaiss, beloved father, husband, and community pillar, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2026, in his hometown of Charlotte, Michigan. Surrounded by the love of his daughters, Neil’s departure marks the end of a life dedicated to service, family, and friendship.
Neil was born on April 8, 1941, in Charlotte. Neil went on to graduate from Charlotte High School in 1959 and later earned an Associate’s Degree at Western Michigan University. His thirst for knowledge was complemented by a deep commitment to his community, where he not only made a living but truly made a difference. A proud veteran, Neil served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. His experiences shaped him into the compassionate and steadfast man he became, as he listened to the stories and hardships of others, always providing support and camaraderie.
One of Neil’s proudest accomplishments was marrying the love of his life, Leila Noah, on June 19, 1965, at the First Congregational Church in Charlotte. He often remarked that the smartest decision he ever made was choosing her as his partner, a testament to a bond that exemplified love and commitment. Neil owned and operated Klaiss TV in Charlotte for many years. He spent 34 years serving with the Charlotte Fire Department as a firefighter and EMT, earning the love and respect of many.
His dedication extended beyond the firehouse, as he later worked at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home after retirement. He possessed a remarkable ability to connect with people, and his love for visiting and chatting enriched the lives of those around him. Neil was also the President of Kiwanis Manor for 27 years here in Charlotte.
Neil is survived by daughters, Melissa (Paul) Martino of Port Orange, Florida, Libby (Tony Delreal) Klaiss of Charlotte; grandchildren: Noah (Macinley Chastain) Martino of Alabama, Victoria Martino of Alabama; sister-in-law, Claudia Bartlett; brother-in-law, Tony Hain; numerous nieces, nephews, and honorary daughters: Ann Roiter and Elizabeth Siler.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Ila (Shumaker) Klaiss; wife, Leila; brother, Charles “Charlie” Klaiss; sister, Joyce Elaine Klaiss; and sister-in-law, Kathy Hain.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Wednesday. Inurnment with military honors will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, Michigan.
Those desiring may make contributions in Neil’s honor to the Charlotte Christmas Kiddies 111 E. Lawrence Ave., Charlotte, MI 48813, Court House Square Association 100 W. Lawrence Ave., Charlotte, MI 48813, or Kiwanis Manor 430 S. Cochran Ave., Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Neil’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.bukhead-green-kilgo.com.
Thelma Ruiz
Thelma Ruiz of Potterville passed away January 28, 2026, at the age of 86. Thelma was born in Chihuahua, Mexico on May 5, 1939, the daughter of Julio and Francisca (Maesse) Madero. As a cherished member of St. Peter Catholic Church, Thelma’s dedication to her faith and community was evident in both her involvement and her service. She found joy in life’s simple, meaningful pleasures.
A talented baker, Thelma loved making homemade bread and cookies to share with others. She enjoyed crocheting, sewing, and painting, as well as working on crossword puzzles. Thelma was also an avid reader; she enjoyed westerns and history.
She is survived by her children, George Ruiz, Beatriz Popp, Carlos Ruiz, Joel Ruiz; six grandchildren and one great grandchild; brother, Reynaldo (Elsa) Madero. Thelma was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Laurencio Ruiz in 2021.
A private family service will be held. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter Catholic Church in Eaton Rapids in loving memory of Thelma Ruiz. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.
Judith Arden Babbitt
Judith Arden Babbitt, age 94, passed February 2, 2026. Judy was born August 18, 1931 to Dr. Bert and Thelma (McCall) Van Ark.
Judy went to Eaton Rapids Public Schools and graduated in 1949. She attended Carroll College in Waukesha, Wisconsin, until returning to Michigan to marry the love of her life and soulmate, Bill Babbitt. They were married in 1951 and enjoyed 74 glorious and blessed years together. She and Bill moved back to Eaton Rapids from Ann Arbor after Bill completed his degree from the University of Michigan. Bill loves telling the story of how Judy would occasionally attend classes with him at U of M and was once given an “A+” from a professor on his blue book exam (Bill only earned an “A”).
During WWII Judy spent time in Missoula, Montana, while her father served as a physician at a POW camp for German prisoners. Later, Judy worked briefly at J.I. Case Company while Bill was finishing his degree.
Bill and Judy spent many happy days together at their summer home on Lake Louise in northern Michigan, and at their winter home on Captiva Island in Florida. In addition, they travelled extensively by motorhome, including 12 round-trips to Alaska. Bill and Judy were accomplished and avid boaters and enjoyed cruising the Great Lakes, the North Channel, and the Georgian Bay in Canada. One of their greatest cruising accomplishments was an extended trip from Florida to Michigan on the Inland Waterway.
Judy survived childhood polio, in no small part due to her being the daughter of a physician.
She is survived by her husband Bill; her six children Becky (Carl) Davis, Rick (Pam) Babbitt, David (Jeannie) Babbitt, Steve (Sandy) Babbitt, Dan (Shari) Babbitt, and Sally (Dan Cortright) Babbitt, 19 grandchildren and 31 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her sister Jeanne Sherman, niece Mindy Sherman, and grandsons Brandon and Aaron Babbitt.
Judy truly loved and cherished in life. Her love, affection, and generosity was well known to all who knew her.
A celebration of Judy’s life will be held at a later date. For those desiring memorial contributions are suggested to the Eaton Rapids Medical Center Foundation in her memory. To share memories or leave online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Luella Marie Dassance
Luella Marie (Eash) Dassance, of Eaton Rapids and formerly of the Cadillac area, passed away on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at her home with family by her side. She was 95.
Luella was born on June 21, 1930, in LaGrange County, Indiana to parents Carl and Mary (Yoder) Eash. She grew up in the Cadillac/Manton area where she was introduced to Levi by her brother Bob.
On October 15, 1949, she married Levi Stephen Dassance in Angola, Indiana. They spent over 62 years together until Levi passed on November 2, 2011. Luella was a domestic engineer (housewife), while Levi was at work and they both were raising seven children.
The family lived on a 40-acre farm in Eaton Rapids, with numerous animals. Their home was filled with love, hard work and devotion. The children didn’t always have what they wanted but always had what they needed.
Luella along with Levi raised Christmas trees in Cadillac for over 30 years. They were quite a team along with help from the kids. Luella loved horses and rode all the work horses while growing up. Her parents would cringe when, starting at about 5 years old, Luella came out of the barn on the horse with just a bridle to go get the cows. Luella took pride in working with young people, especially through her years of leading 4-H groups. She found purpose in teaching, encouraging and passing along her knowledge. Our home was the place neighborhood kids would always come to hang out and play. Luella didn’t mind as long as they behaved. Above all, she will be remembered for her kindness, her steady presence and the love she gave so freely to her family.
Luella is survived by her children, Arlene Dassance of Dimondale, Diana Bunker of Eaton Rapids, Barbara (Ron) Adleman of Eaton Rapids, Paul (Connie) Dassance of Cadillac, and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, along with numerous nieces and nephews; and many other loving family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Levi Dassance; daughter, Patricia, sons, Gerold and Michael; her parents, Carl and Mary Eash; brothers, Richard, Junior, Lloyd, Stewart, Robert, Charlie and George Eash.; and a grandson, Creig Adleman.
A memorial service will be held later in spring 2026.
Special thanks to hospice and McLaren Hospital for the great care given to Luella Dassance. Thank you to Onondaga Fire who came in to assist until the ambulance arrived. Four great people who serve our township. Shout out to CJ for putting up with our mom and her flirting with him. You people are all great and we appreciate you.
Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.Hall-Holdship.com.
The family is being served by Hall-Holdship Funeral Home.