Obituaries
Ernest Edward Bain
Ernest “Ernie” Edward Bain, a man famously known for his “I got a picture of U in my wallet,” and his removable thumb trick, died on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. Ernie, 83, of Charlotte, was born on October 12, 1941, in Berrien Springs, the son of Theo and Flora (Thomas) Bain. Upon graduating from high school Ernie enlisted in the Army and proudly served his country. During his time in the service, he was introduced to Sherrie Ditto and a short 4 months later on December 20, 1962, they would marry. After his time in the service Ernie worked for a few years as a Police Officer in Niles. He then began working for General Motors where he worked as a Team Coordinator for 24 years before his retirement in 2003. Ernie also worked as a high school football referee for 25 years. Ernie was an outdoor enthusiast and enjoyed in his younger years fishing, hunting, family camping trips, working in his yard, and gardening. He loved sports, and cheering on the Michigan State Spartans. Testing his luck at the different casinos around the state was also a favorite hobby. Ernie was a devoted family man, and once his grandchildren arrived, they were the sparkle in his eyes. He lastly appreciated his many friendships with his neighbors and his community.
Ernie is survived by his daughters, Carrie (David) Canniff, Penny (Carl) Kobb; grandchildren, Samantha (Brad Preston) Kobb, Mandy (Kevin Marvin) Kobb, Zachary Canniff, Bradley (Allie) Canniff, Austin Canniff, and Skyler Canniff; great-grandchildren, Naomi, Hadley, Graham, and Remi Canniff; and sister, Inez Cook. He was predeceased by his parents; and sister, Betty.
Friends are encouraged to support Ernie’s family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Robert E Lee Eaton
Robert E Lee Eaton
Robert “Rob” E Lee Eaton, a man who was very funny, humble, grateful, and respectful. Rob passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 3, 2025. Rob, 46, of Charlotte, was born June 13, 1978 in Lansing, the son of Robert and Sheila (Eaton) Hall. He was a very strong man. Rob was a two-time cancer survivor and never stopped fighting. On June 20, 2016, Rob married Ashley Rueckert and together they created many lasting memories. Family meant the world to Rob. He was his children’s biggest fan. Rob loved all sports, especially football, and he was a lifelong faithful 49ers fan. Hobbies that he enjoyed included attending his children’s sporting events, cuddling with his dog, Paws, playing fantasy football, watching MSU, fishing, shooting guns, listening to music, and providing a good laugh with a dad joke. Rob was a very intellectual man who loved technology and diagnosing automotive problems. He earned an Associate’s Degree in Computer Technology from Lansing Community College. Rob worked as a Supervisor at Alro Steel for several years, prior working at Meridian Magnesium, and Linn Products. Above all Rob loved the Lord and was proud that he taught his children to love the Lord as well.
Rob is survived by his wife, Ashley; children, Devon, Braylen, Camden, Ariana, Dominik, and Mya; grandchildren, Sebastian, Mateo, and Gianna; parents, Robert and Sheila Hall; sister, Deidra Schiavi; his best friend, Paws; mother-in-law, Kim (Bill) Rounds; sisters-in-law, Tori, Jenna, and Alissa; brother-in-law, R.J.; uncles, Tim and Fred; niece, Aaliyah; nephew, Micah; and several extended family members and dear friends. He was predeceased by his father-in-law, Ray; grandmothers, Pauline, Pat, and Stella; grandfathers, Gene and Bert; uncles, Kevin and Jimmy; aunts, Debbie, Peggy, Chris, and Stephanie.
Friends are encouraged to support Robert’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Sunday, April 6, 2025, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services were Monday, April 7, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. The funeral 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 Robert’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, memorial contributions are suggested to his family. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Brian Wilmore
Brian “Muggs” Wilmore, passed away unexpectedly on April 6, 2025, in his hometown of Charlotte. He was born on March 1, 1956, in Charlotte. Brian graduated from Charlotte High School in 1974. He furthered his education by earning an associate’s degree from Lansing Community College. On February 17, 1990, he married Carla Ann Maurer at the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church.
Brian dedicated many years of his life to working at O-I Glass, where he was known for his commitment and easy-going nature. He loved being outdoors and had a particular passion for hunting and fishing. One of his favorite traditions was the yearly salmon fishing trip he took up north, an event he eagerly anticipated each year. He also enjoyed playing Keno on Thursday afternoons with his best friend, Randy Lee Grundstrom.
Family was of utmost importance to Brian. He cherished his time with his wife, Carla, and he adored his sons, Tom and Andy. His grandson, Vincent, held a special place in his heart as well.
Brian is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Carla; his sons Tom Wilmore, Andy (Rylie) Wilmore; his grandson Vincent Wilmore; his parents, Clare and Joyce Wilmore; his siblings, Ilene (Garth) Matonis, Neal (Kim) Wilmore, Wendy (Jim Martin) Wilmore, and Laurel Wilmore. He also leaves behind his best friend, Randy Lee Grundstrom and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded death by his brothers, Barry, Kenny, and Alan Wilmore.
In keeping with the wishes of the family, cremation has taken place, and no services will be held.
Those desiring may make contributions in Brian’s memory to the Gresham United Methodist Church 5055 Mulliken Road, Charlotte, MI 48813 or Charlotte High School Athletics 378 State Street, Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Brian’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.
Mitchell Dale Towns
Mitchell Dale Towns was born in Eaton Rapids on October 28, 1952 to Clare & Anne (Winslow) Towns. Mitchell passed at home on April 4, 2025. He grew up working on both family farms, was active in 4-H, he played football and basketball throughout high school, graduating in 1971. With family, he hunted, fished, traveled to horse shows, car races, and concerts. Mitchell was a huge MSU sports and Lions fan. He played softball for years for his favorite bar and always his office, Abies. He spent three years in the army garnering an early out for voluntarily spending a year in Korea on the DMZ. Mitch worked in the insulation business as well as being a carpenter and starting his own business. After being injured in a construction accident in 2019 he spent his time enjoying his family and friends especially his grandchildren and great nephews.
Mitch is survived by his sister, Ava Towns; daughter, Amber (Tyler Taber) Hensley; grandchildren, Nick Kane, Easton Hensley, Carter Taber, Gabriella Taber, Alicia Wright, Jaden Wright, Angelina VanOveren; stepsister, Nancy (Tim) Propst; stepbrother, Bob (Kathy) Cantine; Aunt, Norine Winslow; sister-in-law, K. Simon Towns, Kari Hummel and several cousins, nephews, a niece, and two great nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather, David Cantine; infant brother, brother, Michael Towns; and partner, Krista Vercruysse.
No services are planned as this time. To share memories or leave online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Rosemary A. Cochrane
Rosemary A. Cochrane, a beacon of loving kindness and thoughtful grace, passed away surrounded by the warmth of her family in Charlotte, MI, on March 26, 2025. Born on July 17, 1925, in Lansing, MI, Rosemary laid down an enduring legacy of love, service, and dedication throughout her ninety-nine years.
A proud graduate of Sunfield High School in 1943, Rosemary’s work ethic was evident early on. Soon after, she became a valued employee in food service at Michigan State University. Her dedication to family called her back to the farm, where she embraced the role of a nurturing mother and a diligent farmer’s wife.
Rosemary’s community spirit shone through her active involvement with the Order of the Eastern Star #161. Beyond that, her enduring compassion led her to volunteer at the Eaton County Medical Care Facility Palliative Care, touching many lives with her unwavering support and gentle care.
Her memory will be cherished by her beloved grandchildren, Michael Dixon, Lynette (Christopher Johnson) Rider, and William (Colette) Frith; seven great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; nephew Grant Lott; and great-nieces Maria (John) King and Shawnda Lott. Rosemary’s love story with her family is a testament to her beautiful heart, now carried forward by each generation.
Preceded in death by her parents Albert and Lera Lott, her loving husband Robert, daughter Sharen Frith, brother Albert H. Lott, and nephew Alan S. Lott. Rosemary’s legacy is one of enduring love, a legacy that will continue to flourish in the hearts of those she touched. Rosemary will be deeply missed yet eternally remembered as the embodiment of love and thoughtfulness that guided her through a well-lived life.
Visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 p.m. with an OES service beginning at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, April 4, 2025, at the Mills Funeral Home, Peters & Murray Chapel, 301 E. Jefferson St., Grand Ledge, MI 48837.
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Mills Funeral Home, Peters & Murray Chapel, Grand Ledge, with a visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Freemire Cemetery, Sunfield. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be given in her name to Michigan Masonic Charitable Foundation Elderly Home or Fernwood Christian (Youth) Camp. For those sending flowers, the family kindly request potted plants that can be cherished in her remembrance. For online condolences please visit www.millsfuneral.com