Obituaries
Betty Louise Barnaart
Betty Louise Barnaart, 85, of Vermontville, Michigan, formerly of Charlotte and Northville, Michigan, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026 at Corewell Health in Hastings. She was surrounded by her family on her final day on earth with her daughter by her side when Jesus called her home.
Betty was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She was an inspiration, a pillar of strength and the rock that kept her family grounded. As a wife and homemaker, she was always there for her family and loved ones.
Betty was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, on July 26, 1940 to Henry M. “Curley” Strange and Martha R. (Jablonski) Strange (McClure) and grew up in Northville, Michigan.
She married her husband of 67 years, Richard C. “Chuck” Barnaart on April 15, 1958. They made Charlotte, Michigan, their home until 1975 when the family moved to Vermontville, Michigan.
She is survived by her husband Richard C. “Chuck” Barnaart, daughter Julie Barnaart, son’s Mark Barnaart and Mike Barnaart, daughter in-law Susan Barnaart (Schoessel), grandsons Carl (Cassidy) Bolinger Jr, Jackson Barnaart and Gabriel Barnaart and great-grandsons Aiden, Ellis, Owen and Isaiah Bolinger and many nieces and nephews. Betty was preceded in death by her father, Henry M. Strange, mother Martha R. McClure, brothers Jim Strange and Glenn Strange, daughter Sue Barnaart ,and daughter in-law Cindy McGinnis.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 7, from 2 to 4 p.m. in The Ballroom at The Walldorff Brewpub & Bistro, 105 E. State St., Hastings, Michigan.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home, Hastings, located at 1401 North Broadway, Hastings, Michigan. For further details, please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net.www.MichiganCremation.com.
Richard Ray Gulliver
Richard Ray “Dick” Gulliver, passed away on January 18, 2026. Born in Lapeer, Michigan on December 6, 1931, the youngest child of Ray and Christina Gulliver, the family then moved to Eaton Rapids where Dick was a lifetime resident.
Dick married Marjorie Ten Eyck in July of 1953, and they were married for 69 years. Their son Rick was born in 1956. Marji’s nephew and niece Gary and Wendy Ten Eyck came to live with Dick and Marji in 1961 after the death of their mother, Alice.
Active in his community, Dick was a member of the Rotary Club, a level 32 Master Mason and school board member, along with being a Shriner. He was very active with the Boy Scouts with local troop 600.
Music was a mainstay for him, and he was in many different bands around the area and state, playing the trombone.
After retirement, Dick truly enjoyed being a mentor at the elementary schools. He also volunteered at the hospitals and continued his love and participation of Spartan Hockey.
Dick was preceded in death by his wife Marjorie Claire, son Richard Stuart, family and many friends. He leaves behind sister-in-law Nina Gulliver, brother-in-law Mike (Betty) Ten Eyck, Gary (Teri) Ten Eyck, Wendy (Richard) Allison, three “grandchildren”, four great “grandchildren,” along with many nieces and nephews.
Many thanks to the caring staff at Eaton Rapids Medical Center, and the wonderful, loving folks at Island City Assisted Living for the outstanding care Dick received while there.
Dick will be remembered for his giving heart, helping hand, always having a ready joke and smile, being a world-class teaser, nick-namer, and hard worker.
In lieu of a memorial gift in Dick’s name, perhaps consider completing a random act of kindness. Shovel a neighbor’s driveway, mentor a student, give a hug or tell a good joke to someone.
There will be a private family service held at a later date. To share memories or leave online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Jon W. Colman
Jon W. Coleman, former Executive Director of the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission in Lansing, Michigan, passed away peacefully at the age of 84, at his home in Eaton Rapids on Thursday, January 15, 2026. Widely admired for his collaborative, calm and reasoned approach to sometimes challenging issues, he served for 35 years.
Born December 25, 1941, in Dallas, Texas, to John Raymond and Edna (Pond) Coleman, he was an attentive, well-liked student in school who played intramural sports (softball and football) and competed in track and field. He also achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.
Jon attended Texas A&M University, completing a bachelor’s degree in architecture and a master’s degree in urban planning. He then served in the Air Force for four years, achieving the rank of Captain. After leaving the Air Force, he worked as a regional planner at Wichita-Sedgewick County Planning, in Kansas.
Jon met Sonja Jurzysta, his future wife, in Wichita in 1975. When they moved to Lansing, Michigan for Sonja to pursue her graduate studies at MSU, Jon quickly found a position at the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission, where he spent his professional career until retirement in 2011. Jon loved his job and was very proud of his staff and confident that they would carry on well without him.
While he and Sonja resided in Lansing, Jon used his architectural skills to design and build an addition to their small Cape Cod. Later, Jon’s architectural talents shone when he and Sonja worked with an architect and builder to design and build a distinctive house in 1997 in Eaton Rapids with an eye toward eventual retirement. Early on, they created a very large garden to pursue their love of nature and good food. Post retirement, Jon and Sonja enjoyed many hours of tending to their hilltop oasis, through all kinds of weather, and enjoying the produce from their garden.
Friends and family found Jon to be an amiable, thoughtful, mischievous and handy fellow. He was always quick to volunteer his help if something needed to be done and loved to tinker and fix things. His quiet demeanor did not diminish his competitive streak, which might surprise a ping pong or racquetball opponent. He was also an avid photographer who enjoyed sharing tips with other photo enthusiasts. He developed and printed his own photos, including detailed close-ups of bugs and flowers, wildlife (particularly birds and deer), landscapes, and family events.
Jon is survived by his wife Sonja, brother Ronald (Wilma) Coleman of Dallas, Texas, sister Evelyn Warren of Port Orchard, Washington, several nieces and nephews, and their families. His parents, his sister Johnita Clements and his brother John R. Coleman Jr. predeceased him.
At the family’s request, there will be no service at this time. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the United Way of South Central Michigan (where Jon served on The Power of We Committee) or a charity of one’s choice.
Kenneth LeRoy Hellrung
Kenneth “Ken” LeRoy Hellrung, a man that was friendly, loving, and always had a funny, well-aged dad joke to share, died surrounded by his loving family on Friday, January 9, 2026. Ken, 79, of Potterville, was born on August 12, 1946, in Alton, Illinois, the son of LeRoy and Rose Marie (Lariviere) Hellrung. On September 3, 1966, Ken married his high school sweetheart Alice Conner and together they spent the next 59 years creating lasting memories. He proudly served in the United States Army as Military Police in Germany during Vietnam. Shortly after returning home Ken moved the family to Michigan to begin working for Jet Dye in Lansing where he worked as a supervisor for the plant before his retirement in 2009. When Ken wasn’t working, he enjoyed spending time with his family. Hobbies that he cherished included woodworking and making beautiful furniture pieces for the house, playing golf, shooting at the gun range, taking family trips, and collecting coins, hats -always making sure he never left the house without one on, and eagles. Above all his biggest passion in life was his family.
Ken is survived by his loving wife, Alice; children, Steven and Michele Hellrung; grandchildren, Jacob Anderson and Jeffery Hellrung II; siblings, Patricia Boehn, David (Denise) Hellrung, Donald (Jayne) Hellrung, and Mary (Mike) Cunningham; and numerous extended family members and dear friends. He was predeceased by his sons, Kenneth LeRoy Hellrung II and Jeffery Hellrung; and his parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Ken’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A graveside service with military honors is being planned at Ft. Custer National Cemetery for a later date. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Patricia Mae Murphy
Patricia Mae Murphy, age 91, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 10, 2026. She was born on April 3, 1934, in Sheridan, Michigan, the daughter of Burrell and Ruth (Hart) Henry. Pat graduated from Marshall High School with the class of 1951. On September 21, 1952, she married Sidney Murphy in Marshall.
Pat devoted much of her life to her family and her career, working side by side on the farm with her husband. She was also deeply involved in her community and was known for her dedication to agriculture. Pat went on to make significant contributions as a member of the Michigan Cattleman’s Association Board for 20 years. Furthermore, she served as president of the Cattlewomen for two years and was honored as the Michigan Cattleman’s Association Member of the Year in 1996. Her efforts in the community did not stop there; Pat organized several out-of-state agriculture tours and worked at the State Fair booth and Michigan Beef Expo for many years. Additionally, she was a devoted 4-H Leader for over 40 years, impacting the lives of many young people along the way. Pat and Sid were proud to have been inducted into the Michigan Farmers Hall of Fame in 2004.
Pat was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Sidney in 2018; sister, Sally Henry; brother, Jack Henry; grandson, Jeremy Murphy; Jimmy Shea (Denise).
She is survived by her children, Brian Murphy, Brenda (Peter) Blauwiekel and Denise Murphy; grandchildren: Jessica (Joshua) Darrow, Beth (Chad) Gruden and Joseph (Megan Thoma) Blauwiekel; great grandchildren: Emma Darrow, Avery Darrow, Adalee Gruden, Chandler Gruden, Jackson Joseph Blauwiekel; brothers: Robert (Marilyn) Henry, Terry (Elaine) Henry; brother-in-law, Leon Murphy; and several nieces, nephews and friends.
A memorial gathering and ice cream social will be held in her honor on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home, located at 206 W. Lawrence Ave, Charlotte, MI 48813.
Those desiring may make contributions in Pat’s memory to the B.E. Henry Community Building Association 615 S. Marshall Ave., Marshall, MI 49068.
To view Pat’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Starla Kay Willoughby
It is with profound love and sorrow that we remember and honor the life of Starla Kay Willoughby, who went home to be with the Lord on December 25, 2025. Starla was born in Lansing, Michigan, on March 30, 1970, to Karen Elaine Whitcomb and Roy Steven Willoughby.
Starla lived her life firmly grounded in her belief in God, guided by kindness, compassion, and grace. Her faith was not just something she spoke about, it was something she lived every day through her actions, her forgiveness, and her unwavering love for others. She trusted in the Lord through both joy and hardship. Her strength was immeasurable, and through that strength she gave herself, her family, and her friends more precious days together during her illness.
Starla was preceded in death by her beloved grandparents, Kenneth and Dorris Bahr, and Thomas and Peggy Bruce; her birth father, Roy Willoughby; her dad, George Whitcomb; several very close friends; and her cherished dog, DeeDee.
She is survived by her mother, Karen; her sister, Katrina; her daughters, Ashley Vansplintern and Kaylyn (Nick) Jewell; her bonus son, Brad McKeauge; her favorite niece, Mackenzie Griffith; and her treasured grandchildren: Paris, Natalie, Niko, Sophia, Novi, and Nolyn.
Starla attended Olivet schools, where she played basketball, softball, and track. She won the basketball finals, a memory she was very proud of. Her closest friends included her sister Katrina, Colleen Kelley, Annette Roiter, and Sue Judd. As a child, Sue’s family took Starla on a birthday trip around the country in their motor home, a memory she recalled often. She spoke frequently of how much the Judd family taught her and how blessed she felt that God had crossed their paths.
Starla earned her cosmetology degree through the Vo-Tech Center and later attended Kellogg Community College and Davenport University. She went on to build a career in the medical field as a practice manager for several doctors, while continuing to do hair on the side. Everywhere she worked, she formed deep bonds and considered her coworkers family, especially at her first job out of college with Dr. Larry “Corkey” Waite, and later with Dr. Henry.
Starla married her high school sweetheart, Chad Vansplintern, on May 1, 1993. She was the heart of her family. Her love was constant, selfless, and unconditional. To her children, she was more than a devoted mother, she was a protector, a teacher, a source of comfort and guidance, and a steady light. Her love shaped who they are and will continue to guide them every day. Though her absence is deeply felt, her love remains forever.
While her daughters were the center of her life, Starla was a mother figure to many others. She had a gift for making people feel safe, understood, and deeply cared for, often putting the needs of others before her own. Her kindness was quiet but powerful, shown through her patience, generosity, and countless small acts of love. She taught those around her the true meaning of compassion, resilience, and selfless love—lessons that will live on through the many lives she touched.
Starla’s grandchildren brought her endless joy. Their laughter filled her days, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Her love for them was boundless, and they carry with them warm, unforgettable memories and traditions that will forever live in their hearts.
One of Starla’s favorite sayings and songs was “You Are My Sunshine,” a reflection of who she was. She truly was a ray of sunshine. Even in difficult moments, she found ways to encourage others and remind them they were never alone.
Starla will be remembered for the love she gave, her profound strength, her unwavering faith in God, and the grace she shared so freely. She will always be missed, forever loved, and never forgotten. Her light continues to shine in the hearts of those she leaves behind, and her love will carry on for generations.
“My angels are watching over you.”
A celebration of Starla’s life will be held Saturday, January 17, 2026, beginning at 1 p.m. at The Eagles, 116 Lansing St., Charlotte, MI. 48813. Arrangements entrusted to Vickers Springport Funeral Home, 121 Pearl St./PO Box 235, Springport, Michigan, 49284, phone number 517-857-4848.
Clarence Nye
Clarence “Butch” Nye passed away on the evening of December 19, 2025, at the age of 87. Butch is survived by his Wife of 64 years, Sharon, his Sisters, Mary Phillips and Patricia Wiley, His Daughter Yvonne (David) Staples, His sons, Robert (Eva), Steven (Anne), and Jason, Grandchildren Matthew (Abigail) and Annabelle Staples, Collin and Ryan Nye, Samuel Duran and Camille and Jensen Nye.
Butch was born in 1938 to Clarence and Geneva Nye, in Lansing, Michigan. A graduate of Eastern High School, and attendee of Michigan State University, Butch managed several A&P grocery stores and retired as the service manager of University Oldsmobile. A lifelong motorsports enthusiast, Butch was known to many in the Charlotte and Lansing community as an expert in classic cars and for his willingness to fix anyone’s car for a burger and a beer. In retirement he built his own garage and restored dozens of classic cars for friends and family. A regular on the mid-Michigan car show circuit, Butch’s work was widely known and respected throughout the classic car community.
Butch’s shop was known throughout the Mid-Michigan area for “happy hour,” when friends and fellow car enthusiasts would stop in for a quick tune-up, to float a new project, or to just have a beer and watch whatever sporting event was on that day. A lifelong Spartan, Tigers, Lions, Red Wings, Pistons, and Nascar fan, when not actively working on a car you could always find Butch in his Shop or on his back porch, happy to share a cold beer and talk sports or life, whatever you needed.
Cremation has taken place and a memorial will be held at a later date. In Butch’s memory, the family will be establishing a Butch Nye Memorial Scholarship, the goal of which will be to support students wishing to become the next generation of mechanics and automotive technicians. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that you consider a donation to the establishment of the Butch Nye Memorial Scholarship.
Chester Monroe Firman, Jr.
Chester Monroe Firman Jr., a devoted family man and friend to many, was born on July 26, 1942, in Charlotte, Michigan. He modestly journeyed through life until he passed away peacefully on January 7, 2026, in Lansing, Michigan, surrounded by the love of his family. He graduated from Charlotte High School in 1960. On January 24, 1964, he married Carol Ann Coplin at the West Carmel Congregational Church.
Chester’s career was a testament to his hard work and dedication; he retired after 28 years of service from General Motors in Lansing. His commitment to his job was only outmatched by his commitment to those he loved. Chester was known for his selfless nature, always putting others before himself and seeking ways to lend a helping hand. His generous spirit and endless desire to teach were hallmarks of his personality, making him a source of inspiration and guidance for those fortunate enough to know him.
Life with Chester was filled with joyous memories. He found happiness in the simplest of pleasures, often spending time outdoors and embracing the beauty of creation. Whether it was dancing with his beloved partner, Carol, or enjoying his grandchildren, Chester radiated warmth and fun. His passion for polka music brought smiles to many faces. Chester also found joy in entertaining with the family owned D.J. business, filling the air with melody and laughter.
Chester’s affection for his beagles and his enthusiasm for all things with motors—especially those that could move fast—served as a reminder of his zest for life. He lived with a vibrant energy that inspired others.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Chester M. and Delma (Armstrong) Firman Sr. and son-in-law, Jeffrey Layman.
Chester is survived by his wife of 61 years, Carol; children, Dawn (Mike) Frambes, Gwen (Mark) Bliss, Kim (Curt Vincent) Firman-Layman, Scott (Melissa) Firman, Chuck (Kimberly) Firman; 17 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; and brother, Ken (Ann) Firman.
The family would like to thank Chester’s special caregivers, Rachael and Anna and Crossbridge Hospice for their loving care.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Rev. Lyle Heaton officiating. The family will receive friends on Monday from 5 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Tuesday. Burial will take place at Maple Hill Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contributions in Chester’s memory to the Parkinson’s Foundation www.parkinson.org.
To view Chester’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Earl Eldon Sebolt
Earl Eldon Sebolt, age 77, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 3, 2026. He was born May 21, 1948, in Albion, Michigan. Earl went on to faithfully serve his country in the United States Army. He enjoyed a good round of golf, spending time at the bowling alley, playing darts, and a good game of euchre. He loved his family and was especially proud of his grandchildren. Earl worked the majority of his career at Owens Illinois in Charlotte and retired after many dedicated years of service.
Earl is survived by his children, Leslie Sebolt, Tammy Ross, Troy Auvenshine; grandchildren, Autumn True, Brandon Ouderkirk, Justin Ouderkirk, Cameron Auvenshine, Bradley Auvenshine, Megan Ross, Macy Ross; several great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Wanda Sebolt; grandson, Christian Sebolt; and several siblings.
A graveside service was held on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the West Carmel Cemetery. A celebration of Earl’s life was held on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 4 p.m. at the American Legion Post 42, 1000 W. Lawrence Highway, Charlotte, MI 48813.
Those desiring may make contributions in Earl’s memory to VFW Post 2406, 695 Lansing Road, Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Earl’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Ardean Lorraine Adrianson Gonser
Ardean Lorraine (Rounds) Adrianson Gonser, of Vermontville, Michigan, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2025, at the age of 84.
Ardean was born on December 11, 1941, in Vermontville, the daughter of Floyd and Margaret (Barber) Rounds. She graduated from Vermontville High School in 1960, where she was well known and admired—being crowned the Homecoming Queen and on the Vermontville Maple Syrup Court in 1959.
In 1961, Ardean married Peter K. Adrianson, and together they welcomed two children, Holly and Peter. Later in life, she found love again and married Archie Gonser in 1984, blending their families and sharing 41 joyful years together.
Ardean worked for Hastings Manufacturing for many years, retiring in 2003. Retirement only deepened her dedication to serving others. She was a devoted volunteer, especially known for her involvement at the Eaton Senior Center and her faithful participation in local blood drives, where she not only volunteered but also generously donated many pints herself.
Creativity was at the heart of Ardean’s life. She was an avid cake decorator, proudly crafting countless cakes for family celebrations. Her crocheted and knitted creations were made with love and remain treasured keepsakes. Ardean also had a delightful doll collection and found great joy in crafting alongside her sisters and grandchildren, creating memories as beautiful as the items they made together.
Ardean is survived by her loving husband, Archie Gonser; her children, Holly (Tom) Payne, Peter (Bobbie Jo) Adrianson, Todd (Karen) Gonser, and Tammy (Barry) Lewellyn; her grandchildren, Laurence (Jill) Adrianson, Hildie Adrianson, Ryan Coburn, Nicholas (Amelia) Coburn, Adam (Sarah) Gonser, Ashley (Evan) Ziegler, Austin (Alexis) Gonser, Chloe (Alex) Lewellyn, and Desiree (Dexx) Lewellyn; and her great-grandchildren, Braivon, Ceiley, Lainey, Grayson, Maddison, Molly, Josie, Adalynn, and Theodore.
She was preceded in death by her father, Floyd Rounds; her mother, Margaret Rounds Wineman; eight sisters; two brothers; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Friends are encouraged to support Ardean’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by funeral services at 1 p.m. at Bellevue First Baptist Church, with Pastor Don Francis officiating. The funeral service was webcast and may be viewed from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device with internet access by visiting Ardean’s tribute page and selecting Photos and Videos (or Media on mobile devices). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Bellevue First Baptist Church, Compassus Hospice or Shiloh Christian Children’s Ranch in Shelbina, Missouri. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Springport Funeral Home, 121 Pearl St./PO Box 235, Springport, Michigan, 49284, phone number 517-857-4848.