Obituaries
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.
David Hadley
David “Red” Hadley, passed away peacefully at the age of 87 on December 27, 2025, at SJ Flower House in Nashville, Michigan. He was born on December 26, 1938, in Harrisville, Michigan, to Daniel and Fern (Dorr) Hadley. Red attended Olivet schools and graduated from Olivet High School with the class of ‘56. He was a beloved member of the Kalamo community, and he was known for his friendly demeanor and outgoing nature.
Throughout his life, Red enjoyed spending time outdoors as an avid hunter and fisherman. He processed deer each hunting season and appreciated the connections that were made with his customers. His love for the outdoors was evident, and he delighted in sharing stories of his adventures with friends and family.
Red’s warmth and kindness made him a cherished friend to many. He would stop whatever he was doing to connect with others, always making time for a chat and a smile. He will be missed.
He is survived by his children; daughter Sherry Brown, son Steve (Delta) Pitcher, daughter Laura Hadley, son Daniel Hadley, and honorary son Pat (Elizabeth) Ripley. Red’s legacy continues through his six grandchildren and several great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and friends.
Red was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Mary Hadley, who passed in 2015; his son Terry Pitcher; and his five siblings.
Following Red’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private graveside service will be held at Bosworth Cemetery.
Those desiring to make charitable contributions in Red’s honor may do so by donating to Kalamo United Methodist Church, 1475 S. Ionia Rd., Vermontville, MI 49096.
To view Red’s obituary online or to leave condolences for the family, please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com
The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.
James Dwight Ballard
James Dwight Ballard of Holland formerly Hamlin Township, passed away January 3, 2026, at the age of 95. Jim was born in his family’s home in Onondaga, Michigan on July 1, 1930, to Dwight and Eva Ballard. He enjoyed growing up on his family’s farm and, as a teenager, drove the family truck to school and, after school, picked up farm supplies from the local feed mill. Jim graduated from Eaton Rapids High School as his class’s valedictorian in 1948. He met Carolyn Kautz in East Lansing at a Peoples Church gathering on September 25, 1948, and they married on August 18, 1951. Jim joined FarmHouse Fraternity in 1950 and was active with the association throughout his life. Jim graduated from Michigan State College in 1952 with an Agricultural Extension degree.
After serving in the Korean War as a 1st Lieutenant, Jim and Carolyn moved to the family farm in 1954, building their home in Onondaga. Jim partnered with his father on their chicken farm. They added hogs to the farm in 1963, then fully transitioned to a hog farm in 1969. In 1980, he entered into a farm partnership with one of his sons, Dave, then sold the farm to Dave in 1992. Jim served on the Michigan Pork Producers council as a National Director for 8 years and was honored as a Master Pork Producer in 1981.
Jim was active in the local community, serving in multiple positions at the First United Methodist Church of Eaton Rapids. He also served as a Hamlin Township trustee from 1956 to 1988.
Jim and Carolyn had a strong, loving relationship for 69 years. They enjoyed traveling and led family trips around Michigan and North America as their 4 children grew up. Later in life, they arranged family reunions around the globe. In retirement, they traveled the United States and Canada in their fifth wheel camper or their truck camper. They enjoyed traveling throughout the world with the Pork Producers, MSU-led trips or visiting their children internationally.
Jim and Carolyn wintered in their home in Florida. Summers and Falls were spent on the farm, swimming with their grandchildren and great grandchildren, and participating in many MSU events. Jim was an avid gamer and played many different card and board games. If he wasn’t working or playing, Jim could be found in his pool floating in a deflated inner tube or churning homemade ice cream.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Dwight and Eva Ballard, his sisters, Nancy Ballard and Esther Richmond, and his wife, Carolyn Ballard. He is survived by his children, Ron (Karen) Ballard, Cathy (Phil) Bowen, Dave (Joanna) Ballard, Bruce (Julie) Ballard; grandchildren LaRona Jones, Patrick (Aleaha) Bowen, Andrew (Lisa) Bowen, Laura (Jaime) Koopman, Jeff (Melissa) Ballard, Jack (Milo Kruppa) Ballard, Abbey Ballard and Brandon (Brianna) Ballard; and 13 great grandchildren. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and dear friends.
Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the First United Methodist Church of Eaton Rapids. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service as well as Friday, January 9, 2026, at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Interment will take place in Rosehill Cemetery. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church of Eaton Rapids, Eaton Rapids Teen Space or CFHZ-Freedom Village Scholarship Fund in loving memory of James Dwight Ballard. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.
Jeffrey Lynn Ellsworth
Jeffrey Lynn Ellsworth, 59, mayor of “Wicklow Hood” and friend to all who knew him, passed away on December 26, 2025. He was comfortable in his home surrounded by his loved ones.
A natural leader in every arena of his life, Jeff spent over 20 years in auto industry logistics, most recently with Jack Cooper. He was known there as a fiercely loyal boss who always advocated for his team. His natural habitat, however, was “Wicklow Hood” — the neighborhood where his bonfires, late-night stories, and unique sense of humor earned him his title of “mayor.” Other nights, you could find him hanging with his grandkids, cheering at one of his six kids’ school events, or competing with his family over the nightly episode of Jeopardy!
Jeff was a dedicated father, husband and grandfather, leaving a lasting legacy of generosity and kindness. He was the first person you called when you needed a ride or were having car trouble. His children’s most cherished memories involve him teaching them how to be good Samaritans – pulling a friend from a ditch or saving a hurt animal. Through it all, he repeated his father’s favorite phrase to them: “It always comes back around.”
His family extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who proved this to be true over the last year. (If you never got back around to him, don’t worry—you can take it up with him in the afterlife. You’ll find him at the bonfire, surrounded by his departed loved ones, telling inappropriate jokes with his loyal Golden Retriever, Nemo, curled at his feet.)
Jeff is survived by his wife, Samantha Ellsworth; children, Elizabeth (Christopher) Lilley, Evan (Jen) Ellsworth, Emily (Wes Surface) Ellsworth, Vincent Ellsworth, Victor “Jack” Ellsworth, Vivian Ellsworth; grandchildren, Clarabelle Lilley, Cameron Shanks; mother, Suzanne Ellsworth; siblings, James (Theresa) Ellsworth, Joe (Linda) Ellsworth, John (Debbie) Ellsworth, Janice (Mark) O’Donnell, Jill Ellsworth. He was preceded in death by his father, Dale Ellsworth; sister, Judy Gray; niece, Holli Tyler; nephew, Justin Ellsworth.
A visitation was held at Mills Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids on Thursday, January 8, 2026, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Honoring his final wishes, a memorial party (in lieu of a service) was held on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 1 p.m. at Tony M’s Restaurant and Banquet Center, 3420 Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917.
And as a final tribute to Jeff, who never met a moment too pure or an event too proper for a joke, we leave you with one of his favorite quotes from Eric Cartman: “Screw you guys, I’m going home!”
Louise Viele
Louise Viele was born to Leonard and Irma (Ward) Joppie on October 20, 1925, in Sunfield Township. The second of six children, she was raised on the family farm. She attended Bismark School and Vermontville High School, graduating in 1943. After graduation she worked as a “Rosie the Riveter” in Lansing during WWII. On May 19, 1946, she married Charles Viele. They had five children and were married for 75 years. Louise passed away peacefully on December 2, 2025 at the age of 100, after living a long and full life. She will be greatly missed by many.
Louise and Charles farmed until they formed Charles Viele Bulldozing in 1954. They eventually built a house in Vermontville in 1960, and she made it into a home, living there into her nineties. Over the years she helped with the excavating business, answering phones, keeping records, etc. She always made sure Charles had a well packed lunch pail and thermos.
Her first priority was being a great mom to their children… plus a few others along the way. She was the primary reason her children became educated, responsible, and caring adults. During summers their pool would often be full of kids. Her role as a grandma and great grandma was one she thoroughly enjoyed, providing plenty of love, hugs, and understanding. She was known as a smart, kind, and patient person by many, and was sharp-witted right to the end.
She was a member of the Vermontville Congregational Church, and was one of the “church ladies,” helping with Syrup Festival, Harvest Festival dinner, funeral luncheons, and so on. Charles often said she was one of the best cooks in Eaton County. She participated in many community groups like 4-H, Cub Scouts, Women’s Club, and school related groups such as Band Boosters. She enjoyed knitting, reading, gardening, and watching Tigers and Rams games.
Louise treasured her friends. She and Charles had a getaway place near Cadillac, the scene of many fall color tours and fun snowmobile weekends. Most of her time there was spent in the kitchen, making sure everyone was well fed. Meal Prep there became known as the Crock-pot Wars.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, son Raymond Viele, sisters Leona (Bob) McNally, Barb (Larry) Musser, Jo (Doug) Steward, and brother Neil Joppie.
She is survived by her brother Leonard “Bud” Joppie, and brother-in-law Larry Musser; daughter Jeanne (Mel) Straub of Lowell, Denise (Dale) Berry of Vermontville, Maurene Viele (Karl Sorensen) of San Francisco; son Charles, Jr. (Kathy Kolodica-Viele) Viele, of Charlotte, and honorary son Mike Orman; grandchildren Brandy Viele, Justin (Maber) Viele, Ethan Berry, Nichole (Ian) Carolla, Eren (Corey) Smith, and honorary grandchildren Alicia Kolodica Smith and Joe Smith; and beloved great-granddaughters Julianna Lopez, Charlotte Smith, Mary Louise Carolla, April Viele, and Evelyn Smith, as well as many nieces and nephews.
A memorial wil be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, at Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville. Burial will be at Woodlawn Cemetery near Vermontville.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Maple Valley Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 715, Nashville, MI 49073, or Bismark Community Boosters, Amy Robinson, Treasurer, 9421 Bismark Hwy., Vermontville, MI 49096. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home – Nashville, conveniently located at 9200 E. M-79 Hwy., Nashville, MI. For more information, please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net.
Daniel Marion Walker
Daniel Marion “Hillbilly” Walker, 78, of Charlotte, passed away following a lengthy illness in Lombard, Illinois, where he had moved to live with his daughter, Tina.
Daniel was born in Charleston, West Virginia, in 1947, the son of Jessie “Junior” Walker and Marilyn (Derek) Withrow. He earned the nickname “Hillbilly” from his deep roots in the ridges and hollers of West Virginia—roots he carried with pride throughout his life.
In 1963, Daniel moved to Michigan with his family and settled in Charlotte. He worked for many years at the Oldsmobile plants in Lansing.
Daniel retired in 1988 and returned to his homestead in a holler near Charleston, West Virginia, where he lived for many years. Later, he returned to Charlotte to live with his son, Steve. As winters grew more challenging, Daniel moved to McAllen, Texas, where he lived until Hurricane Hanna destroyed his home. His son Steve and daughter Tina traveled to McAllen to bring Daniel to Lombard, Illinois, where he lived with Tina until his passing.
To those meeting him for the first time, Daniel often appeared to be the stereotypical “tough biker”—long hair, rugged features, and a weathered presence. And truth be told, he was tough. He lived a hard-working life and carried a quiet strength shaped by perseverance, loyalty, and responsibility. But that toughness was never mean-spirited. Beneath it was a deeply kind man, quick to help anyone in need and fiercely protective of the people he loved. Many who were initially unsure soon came to count him as a trusted friend.
One favorite family story comes from a visit to his daughter’s home, where Daniel stayed to watch his grandchildren. Some neighbors were uncertain about the “rough-looking guy” who had arrived—but within days, Daniel had organized a bicycle parade for his grandchildren and their friends, filling the neighborhood with laughter. It was classic Hillbilly: he arrived looking tough and left behind joy and connection.
Daniel truly was a biker at heart. He was a long-time member of the Family Motorcycle Club based in the Lansing area. When he wasn’t riding, he was often out and about, socializing and spending time with friends. His travels became part of family legend, including a memorable trip to Maine, where he planned to return to Charlotte with 200 lobsters to sell through his favorite hangout, C.B.’s. True to his generous nature, his excitement got the better of him, and he ended up giving most of them away instead.
Above all, Daniel found his greatest happiness surrounded by family—especially his grandchildren. He was often found with children nearby, both family and friends alike, and through his steady presence, humor, and generosity, he became “Dad” to many people of all ages.
Daniel was married to Rose (Shidler) Bryde, divorced in 1984, with whom he shared an important chapter of his life and family.
Daniel is survived by his sons, Steve (Amy) Allarding, Steve (Elizabeth) Walker, and Danny Walker; daughter, Tina (Erik) Jensen; 12 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; brothers, Terry Withrow and Rick Withrow; sisters, Kelly (Walker) Ellman, and Karen (Walker) Small; and stepsister, Janice Lee Withrow.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse “Junior” Walker and Marilyn (Derek) Withrow; stepfather, Jewel Withrow; stepmother, Lorene Walker; brother, Ken Withrow; and his beloved friend Angie “Ziggy” Ferguson, whom he cherished as a daughter.
Funeral services were held for Daniel on Friday, January 2, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with the family received guests for visitation from noon to 2 p.m. Interment followed at Hillside Cemetery in Kalamo Township. Immediately following interment, a luncheon was held at American Legion in Charlotte.
Later in the year, close family will gather to celebrate Daniel’s life with a summer gathering at the family pond in Eaton Rapids. Earlier in May an all-welcomed motorcycle ride in his honor that will start and end at CB’s Bar.
Family and friends are encouraged to share remembrances and condolences online in Daniel’s Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com.
The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte, MI.
Keith Lundberg
Keith Lundberg, passed away peacefully in Charlotte, Michigan, on December 27, 2025, at the age of 84. Keith was one of the oldest lifetime residents of Windsor Township living on Bailey Road his entire life.
Born on May 7, 1941, in Charlotte to Harvey and Mildred Lundberg, Keith was raised with the work ethic of the dairy farm. A 1959 graduate of Eaton Rapids High School, he went on to honorably serve his country for six years in the National Guard. On September 9, 1961, he married the love of his life, Pat Zalewski. Together, they shared over 64 years of unwavering devotion and partnership.
An avid horseman, Keith raised registered Quarter Horses and shared his knowledge as a 4-H leader for the Community Riders. Keith retired from General Motors after 30 years of service. He was perhaps best known for his “labor of love”—remodeling the family farmhouse alongside Pat to create The Legend Inn B&B. Whether he was welcoming guests, hunting, cutting wood, plowing snow for neighbors – Keith’s life was one of activity and community spirit.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Mildred and brother, Donald Lundberg.
His memory will be cherished by his beloved wife, Pat; sister, Kay Ardis; niece, Angie (Chris) Thompson; and a community of friends and neighbors who knew him as a fixture of Windsor Township.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, 2 p.m. at the Palmer Bush & Jensen Funeral Home, Holt Chapel on 5035 Holt Road in Holt, MI 48842. The family will receive visitors prior to the service from 12:30 to 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to support Pat’s ongoing care. Contributions can be sent to Hope Landing 1252 N. Cochran Ave., Charlotte, MI 48813. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.palmerbush.com.
Irland Marie Francka
Irland Marie Francka of Eaton Rapids passed away December 22, 2025, at the age of 99. Marie was born on August 29, 1926, the daughter of Oscar and Della (Mallonee) McDaniel. She retired from Owens-Illinois in Charlotte after several years of service. Marie’s hands were seldom at rest; she was a master of embroidery and quilting, crafting intricate designs that brought beauty into the lives of all who were fortunate enough to receive her work. She also enjoyed baking and sharing her treats with friends and loved ones. An avid fisher, Marie found peace in the quiet lakes and rivers of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
She is survived by several beloved nieces and nephews. Marie was preceded in death by her parents; love of her life, James Joe Francka; sister, Maxine Crafton; brother, Nathan McDaniel.
Funeral Services were held on Friday, December 26, 2025, at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids with visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment followed in Rosehill Cemetery. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to The Care Team Hospice in loving memory of Irland Marie Francka. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.