Obituaries
Dorothy Sophie Wehr
Dorothy Sophie Wehr departed quietly for heaven on Wednesday, February 8, 2023 surrounded by family. Dorothy was born September 15, 1927 in Lansing, Michigan, to Karl and Sophie Wildeman. She graduated from Eastern High School in Lansing and worked at the Style Shop in East Lansing, where she met her husband, Max. They were married in 1947 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Lansing. She was a stay-at-home mom who was very involved in her children’s lives, serving as room mother and Girl Scout and Campfire Girls leader, having hot lunches ready when they came home from school at noon, and baking lots of homemade cookies. Family was everything to Mom. She was never happier than when her family could get together!
Max and Dot, as he called her, loved to travel. They visited nearly all of the 50 states in their motor home and went to Germany with a church group in 1996. Dorothy loved to paint and was an accomplished watercolor artist and past member of the Eaton Art League. Her children are the proud owners of many of her paintings, which hang in their homes. She was a faithful and active member of First Lutheran Church of Charlotte, having served on the altar guild and decorating committee. She also enjoyed golf and playing Scrabble, cards, and other games with family and friends.
She is survived by four daughters: Judith (Phil) Hooper of Big Rapids and Grand Haven, MI; Kay (Darwin) Mahar of Reed City, MI; Mary Jo (Brian) Huver of Charlotte; and Polly Burns of Reed City; six grandchildren: Erin Mahar, Matthew (Kim) Mahar, Dr. Gretchen (Hooper) (Dr. Jonathan) Winters, Ryan Converse, Elliana Burns, and Mason Huver, and six great-grandchildren: Taylor, Emily, Julian, Tristan, Drew, and Max, as well as four nieces and four nephews.
Dorothy was preceded to heaven by her husband of 71 years, Max, in 2019; son, Mark and son-in-law, Paul Burns in 2018, parents; brothers, Alfred and Ernest; and sister, Elsie.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 14, 2023, at 11 a.m. at First Lutheran Church, 550 E. Shepherd St., Charlotte, MI 48813 with Rev. Mark Gawura officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will take place at Maple Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to First Lutheran Church of Charlotte.
To view Dorothy’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.
Chester Binkowski
Chester O. Binkowski, age 80, of Charlotte peacefully passed away into the loving arms of his Savior on Monday, February 6, 2023. He was born September 26, 1942, in Charlotte the son of Martin and Anna (Poskarbiewicz) Binkowski. Chet graduated from Charlotte High School with the class of 1960. He then went on to work in the experimental engineering department at General Motors for 31 years. On December 7, 1991, he married Fay Maggard in Woodland. Chet had a passion for preparing magnificent food and baked goods. It was this passion that led him and Fay to open Fay’s Evelyn Bay in Charlotte. Together they enjoyed watching their business grow while serving the people of their hometown. Chet had a deep love for the land and was always a true farmer at heart. He enjoyed playing cards and working in his garden. Chet’s first love was always his family, and his grandchildren held a special place in his heart.
Chet is survived by his wife, Fay; children: Craig (Maureen “Moe”) Binkowski of Coldwater, Eric (Norma) Binkowski of Woodland, Steven (Michelle) Binkowski of White Lake, Erica (Omar) Limas of Olivet, Jessica Dunn of West Palm Beach, Florida; grandchildren: Clay (Alyssa) Binkowski, AJ (Nicole) Binkowski, Gretchen (Jody) Worona, Andrew (Jess Koah) Hinz, Allie (Bill) Hrit, Ikaika Binkowski, Anela Binkowski, Steven Binkowski, Michael Binkowski, Christina Binkowski, Isaac (Kathy) Nisse, Marquise (Isabel) Zendejas, Myia Limas, Grace Limas, Hayley McLeod, Chandler Morris; great grandchildren: Sophia, Lincoln, Dwayne, Shelby, Warren, Ashley, Natalie, Madison, Aiden, Ava, Ivy, Cairo, Elio; sisters-in-law: Joan Binkowski, Helen Binkowski; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Elizabeth, Paul, Carl, Tom, Irene, Russell, Tony, and Shirley.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 11, 2023, at 2 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Pastors John Bailey and Steve Byrens officiating. The family will receive friends on Saturday from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the funeral home just prior to the service.
Those desiring may make contributions in Chet’s memory to Eaton Community Palliative Care 2675 S. Cochran Rd., Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Chester’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Kathy Isham
Kathy L. Isham, age 69, of Potterville, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Sunday, February 5, 2023. She was born September 23, 1953, in Lansing the daughter of William and Valez (Howard) Foley. She graduated from Lansing Eastern High School. Kathy was a tremendous cook and candy maker. Her family was always eagerly awaiting her next culinary creation. She also worked countless hours in her garden. Her bountiful harvests were always properly preserved and canned for all to enjoy thorough the remainder of the year. Kathy was known for her unique sense of humor and it brought everyone together for many cherished memories.
Kathy is survived by her partner and best friend, Dan Clark; children: Raymond (Nicole) Ridge of Howell, Jason Ridge of Potterville, Danielle Clark of Potterville; grandchildren: Sean Ridge, Hollie Ridge, Tristan Ridge, Kayla Salek; and many friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
In keeping with Kathy’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services will be held.
Those desiring may make contributions in Kathy’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital www.stjude.org.
To view Kathy’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.
Max W. Sampsel
Max W. Sampsel, a devoted family man, died on Monday February 6, 2023. Max 74, of Charlotte, was born on December 25, 1948, at the family home in Charlotte, the son of Lloyd and Viola (Hall) Sampsel. In 1966 Max married Nancy Woodbury and together they started their life. He worked as a machinist for Masterbuilt Products in Olivet where he retired in 2011. He loved anything with an engine; working on cars, riding motorcycles, and 4x4ing on the sand dunes and trails in Grayling. His other hobbies were deer hunting, camping, and helping anyone in need. His biggest enjoyment in life was his family especially his grandchildren.
Max is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Nancy; children, Anna (Luke) Hanson, Barbara (Mark) Wenger, Chad (Cheryl Norris) Sampsel; grandchildren, Ashley (Brian) Storh, Harry Osenbaugh Jr., Destiny (Slaid) Mead, Luke Hanson Jr., Bethany Williams, Sarah (Devaine Cowles) Wenger, Brandie (Andrew) Belen, Joshua (Amber Burhans) Wenger, Nathaniel Wenger, Brandon Sampsel, Raymond Sampsel, Brook, Britany, Dominik Sampsel, Jonah Proctor, Eddie Proctor, Maura Sampsel, Brianna Sampsel; great-grandchildren, Dakota, Lacey, Hanna, Wayne, Landan, Peyton, Kenny, Eddy, Trevor, Karlee, Malorie, Tyler, Denver, Paisley, Archer, Harper, Bentley, Shanell, Brandon Jr., and Arimina; siblings, Dennis (Sue) Lea, Pat Hynes, and Sue Thompson; cousins, Kathy Yeomans, and David Enquist. He was predeceased by his parents; infant grandson, Elijah Sampsel; and infant great-grandson, Brennin.
Friends are encouraged to support Max’s family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. The family is planning a Celebration of Life for the Spring of 2023. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Pray Funeral Home to assist the family with funeral expenses. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Carl William McKiddie
Carl William McKiddie passed away at home Sunday, January 1, 2023. He was born in Sault Ste Marie on May 27, 1944 to William and Mary (Burt) McKiddie. He served in the United States Navy from 1963 to 1967. On September 10, 1983 he married Teresa Arrington.
Carl was an avid deer hunter and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, especially his granddaughters. He enjoyed attending the girls’ numerous sporting events over the years. He was a participating member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Aerie 3552, the Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge 2565 and the American Legion Post 0042.
Carl is survived by his wife of 39 years, Teresa McKiddie; daughter, Mandy Toney; granddaughters McKenna, McKayla and MacKenzie Toney; mother-in-law, Barbara Arrington; and sisters, Shirley (John) Stites, Jeanette (Larry) Brown, Dorothy (Ken) Kavanaugh, and Lori (Mike) Lane.
In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Steven Earl Bowles
Steven Earl Bowles, a very talented mechanic that trained many others, died peacefully on February 8, 2023, at his home in Charlotte. Born in Lansing, Michigan on July 25, 1954, to Raymon and Betty (Evans) Bowles, he graduated from Eaton Rapids High School in 1972, and later earned his Associate Degree from LCC. He worked for AE Hoover from 1976 to 1991, and then Spartan Motors from 1991 until his retirement, but because of his knowledge and talent Spartan Motors called him back after retirement to train others. A Ham Radio enthusiast, he loved talking to others from very long distances away and engaged in healthy competitions among other radio enthusiasts for the longest distance reached and the most people they talked to. His handle was KF8HA. Among his other hobbies and interests, Steven enjoyed fishing (especially fly fishing), playing music with his band at the old skating rink in Charlotte, bowling with his wives Cynthia and Sally in local leagues and just for fun. Steve could fix almost anything, and his friends and family enjoyed his great smile, quick wit, and sense of humor.
Steve will be missed by his children, Christina Gatica, Justin Bowles; daughter-in-law, Celena Bowles; grandchildren, Zane and Bella; and siblings, David Bowles and Patricia Bowles. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Cynthia (Canfield) Bowles; second wife, Sally (Royston) Bowles; infant son, Terry Bowles; son, Johnathon Bowles; grandson, Briar; brother, Mike Bowles; and sister, Prudence Dingman.
Friends are encouraged to support Steven’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Wednesday, February 15, 5:30-7:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with a Memorial Service immediately following at 7:00 p.m. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to any charity of your choice. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Ezekial Pauls
Ezekial (Zack) E. Pauls, age 27, of Seymour, MO (formerly of Charlotte, MI) died on Tuesday, January 31, 2023, at his residence.
Zack was born on May 19, 1995, the son of Melody and the late Benjamin Pauls. He was raised in Eaton Rapids for a short time and then Charlotte, and attended Charlotte Public Schools, graduating in 2014. Zack was a member of the Boy Scouts of America and earned Eagle Scout status. He received a varsity letter for football. He was an avid tabletop gamer and earned the wood-worker of the year award.
Zack was a unique and kind man. His heart filled to the brim with love, empathy, justice, and the need to make everyone smile. Every time he made any of us laugh, Zack did it with everything he had – as with all things he did in life. His creative mind, gentle soul, and urge to push everyone to be their best selves – these were just a few of the wonderful qualities that were Zack. Describing him doesn’t seem to do justice to how truly wonderful he was. He deserved to grow, to do everything he could to better the world for his fellow man, as well as sharing his beautiful creations and his truly amazing thoughts. He loved and was loved by so many. Wherever he is, I know he is smiling and mastering his battle strategies. Keep our battle brother in your thoughts. “Each new day is a victory.” “May humanity unite to right the tyranny of chaos.”
Zack is survived by his mother, Melody Pauls; sister, Anne Marie Pauls and brother-in-law, Alex Esch; grandparents, Roy and Penny Therrien, Judy Pauls, and Molly Harmon.
He was preceded in death by his father, Benjamin Pauls; and his grandfathers, Jeffery Harmon and Harlen Pauls.
A Memorial will be held on Saturday, February 11, 2023, from 2-4 p.m. in the lower half of the VFW Post 2406 facility, located at 695 Lansing Road, Charlotte.
Dorothy Jones
Dorothy Jones, age 93, of Bellevue, Michigan, passed away on Wednesday, January 18, 2023.
Dorothy was born in Detroit, Michigan on April 14, 1929, to James Vasil and Essie (Judd) Vasil. She graduated from Bellevue High School, class of 1947. She worked as a bookkeeper for Felpausch in Bellevue for 34 years, retiring in 1997.
Dorothy is survived by her children, Ron (Sue) Olmstead, David (Robin) Olmstead, and Jim (Laurie) Olmstead; ten grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and one nephew. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Essie Vasil; her husband, Ed Jones Sr.; her sister, JoAnn Hodges; and her daughter-in-law, Ann Olmstead.
A celebration of life will be held on April, 14, 2023 at 12:00 Noon at Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 205 N. Elizabeth St., Bellevue, Michigan 49021 with visitation starting at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Hillside Cemetery in Kalamo, Michigan.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to The AC Flower House or The Bellevue Fire Department.
Please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, sign the guest book, and leave messages for the family. For assistance with memorials please visit the funeral home.
Katherine Marie Hoyt
Katherine Marie Hoyt of Eaton Rapids was called Home on February 1, 2023, at the age of 64. Katherine was born in Lansing, MI, September 5, 1958, the daughter of Gerald and Beverly (Stockenauer) Pennell. She graduated from Everett High School in 1976. Katherine had numerous hobbies including rock collecting, canning, and going to garage sales. She enjoyed being outside doing all kinds of activities and taking care of her garden. The obvious joy in her life was spending time with her grandchildren.
Katherine is survived by her children, Josie (Heath) Mackey of Hanover, Donald (Jennifer) Hoyt III of Eaton Rapids, Jerry Hoyt of Eaton Rapids, Sandra Sturis of Grand Rapids; grandchildren, Aaron and Chandler Mackey, Donald IV, Jacob, Allison, Maxton and Tobin Hoyt, Max Sturis; sisters, Vickie (Donald) Gross of Lansing, Karen (John) Crawford of Lansing; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Donald Hoyt II.
A Rosary and prayers will begin at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, February 11, 2023, at the Tompkins Township Hall, 9999 Tompkins Rd., Rives Junction, MI 49277. with a luncheon and fellowship following at 2:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel. To leave condolences for the family, please visit our website, www.millsfuneral.com.
Ella Mae Evert
Carl V. Reck Jewelry lost their biggest customer on January 26, 2023. Ella Mae Evert was born February 18, 1937, in Charlotte, MI to Frank and June (Glover) Aseltine. Ella was a Clerk for the State of Michigan Department of Social Services for 25 years, retiring in 1997, and the first ever clerk to receive the state Employee of the Year award. Ella married Paul Evert in December of 1961, and together they raised their family with lots of adventures including camping trips, hunting for Petoskey and Pudding Stones, and visiting nearly every state park in Michigan. With an extreme passion for beautiful things, Ella loved tending her flower gardens and provided her church with beautiful floral arrangements for 22 years. She also loved her jewelry and crocheting beautiful afghans to share with friends and family. With a big heart, she also enjoyed her pets that became her children after her children were grown, including her beloved dog, Bingo, and cat, Pepper.
Ella is survived by her children, Frank (Rae Jane) Cortright, and Nina Evert; little brother, Allen (Anne) Aseltine; and dear friends Carol (Scott) Pruden. She was predeceased by her husband, Paul Evert; her parents; sisters, Irene VanLiew and Anna Dickinson; and brothers, Elmer, Lynn, John, Cecil, and Donnie.
Friends are encouraged to support Ella’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Funeral services were held Wednesday, February 1, 1:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Tim Potter officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Pawsabilities Rescue or Elara Caring Hospice. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.