Obituaries
Jamie A. Tuckey
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jamie A. Tuckey, a beloved father, brother, grandfather, uncle, cousin, and friend, who departed from this world on February 25, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on February 9, 1944, in Charlotte, Michigan, Jamie lived a life marked by dedication, love, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Jamie was the cherished son of Duane and Hester (Farrier) Tuckey, who instilled in him the values of hard work, integrity, and kindness. These values would guide him throughout his life and become the foundation upon which he would build his legacy.
His childhood was filled with many loving family gatherings with grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, and many cousins. Jamie graduated from Charlotte High School in 1962.
He was a proud soldier, serving briefly as a Green Beret in the Army Special Forces, where he demonstrated courage and commitment to his country.
After his military service, Jamie embarked on a career that would see him make significant contributions to the community. He led housing project developments and managed the physical renovation of the Sofia Hotel in downtown San Diego, where his attention to detail and insistence on perfection were evident in every endeavor he undertook. He also played a vital role in the San Diego Surf Cup soccer tournament, helping to elevate the event and enhance its reputation.
Much more than his professional achievements, Jamie was known for his warm spirit and his ability to connect with others. He was an organized individual, always punctual, with a wonderful sense of humor that brought joy to all who knew him. His hobbies and interests reflected his craftsmanship; just like his father, he was great with his hands and took pride in every project he completed.
Jamie is survived by his loving son, Jamie Tuckey II; his two grandchildren, Charley and Dylan Tuckey; his dear brother, David D. Tuckey; nephews, Curtis, Chris, David A.
Tuckey and Jim Haviland; Tuckey and Farrier cousins. Together, they will carry forward his memory and the values he imparted to them. Jamie’s life was a testament to the beauty of kindness, the importance of family, and the pursuit of excellence.
In his final years, Jamie battled Parkinson’s Disease with the same strength and determination that characterized his life. His eight-year journey with the disease was not easy, but he faced each challenge with grace and dignity, inspiring those around him to remain positive and hopeful.
Private funeral services will be held to honor Jamie’s life and legacy, one in California and one Charlotte, MI. Jamie will be buried in Evergreen Cemetery in Girard Twp., Coldwater, MI. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages those wishing to honor Jamie to remember him through acts of kindness and service to others, reflecting the generous spirit he embodied throughout his life.
As we say goodbye to Jamie A. Tuckey, we celebrate a life well-lived, a life filled with love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten, living on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him.
Aleene Mae Cook
Aleene Mae “Ellie” Cook, age 83, of Charlotte, passed away on May 11, 2025. She was born on April 7, 1942, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Ella McDonald of Middleville, Michigan.
Aleene graduated from Thornapple Kellogg High School in 1960. She moved to Charlotte in 1962, where she raised her family and was known around the neighborhood as “Mrs. C”. She was employed at B&W Schrader Agency and part-time at Char-Lanes.
After her sons were raised, she moved to Grand Rapids where she went to work for Old Kent Bank/Fifth Third Bank, and then for the State of Michigan. After retiring in 2008, she moved back to Charlotte.
Ellie enjoyed many activities, including camping, fishing, traveling, sewing, and spending time with family and friends. She was part of “Wrapped In Love Quilters”, which is a charity sewing group at the First Baptist Church (FBC) in Charlotte.
Aleene is survived by her sons; Todd (Carmen) Cook of Grayling and Bradley Cook of Charlotte; grandson, Andrew (Karli Maurer) Cook of Mulliken, granddaughter, Jennifer (Tyler) Smith of Charlotte; her “third son”, Tim (Dawn) Kepler of Charlotte; brother, Nelson (Louise) Replogle of Hastings; sister-in-law, Liz Cook of Milan; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Aleene is preceded in death by her mother; daughter-in-law, Cheri Cook; and sister, Donna Kermeen.
Service was held at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home in Charlotte on Friday, May 16, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. with Paster Carmen Cook officiating. The family received friends starting at 2:00 p.m. prior to the memorial service.
If you wish to make a contribution in Ellie’s memory, please do so to “Wrapped In Love Quilters” of the Charlotte First Baptist Church.
To view Aleene’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.
Lola Irene Wilson
Lola Irene Wilson, age 88, died on Monday, April 28, 2024. Mrs. Wilson was born on February 3, 1937 in Charlotte, Michigan, the daughter of the late Otto Marion Donley and Ruth (Althouse) Donley, and sister to Robert (Florence) Donley. Following graduation in 1954 from Charlotte High School, she entered Western Michigan College, now University, where she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree and a teaching certificate in 1958. In the fall of 1958, she began her career teaching first grade at the old elementary school in Springfield, Michigan, a suburb of Battle Creek.
In 1960, she married Jim Wilson and returned to Charlotte where they established their home. When their first child was born in 1963, Mrs. Wilson became a stay-at-home mom, where she remained for twelve years. During that time, she became a volunteer for church, Nursery School, Camp Fire, Cub Scouts, 4-H, Parkview School, and supported Jim in his work with the Lions Club, all while caring for their two children.
In 1975, Mrs. Wilson was excited to be hired by Charlotte Public Schools as a first grade teacher at Parkview Elementary School where her children had attended. Her return to the classroom also meant her return to school to work on an advanced degree. Lola retired from teaching in 1999 after twenty-nine years in first grade.
Upon retirement, she returned to volunteering. She enjoyed working with the First Congregational Church, Parkview School, Delta Kappa Gamma, GFWC-Charlotte receiving the “Woman of Achievement” honor in 2012, and the Charlotte Alumni Association where she served as Historian. She enjoyed reading, gardening, stage plays and performances, family and friends, but most of all she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Mrs. Wilson is survived by her husband, James Wilson; children, Pamela (Lawrence) Lindemer of Rockford, MI, and Patrick Wilson of Cherry Valley, IL; two “above average” grandchildren, Hayley (Jacob) Walker and Jacob (Kaitlin) Lindemer; three “precious” great-grandchildren; her brother, Robert (Florence) Donley, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the First Congregational Church, 106 Bostwick Street, Charlotte, Michigan. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at church. If desired, Mrs. Wilson requested memorial contributions to the Charlotte Community Library or the First Congregational Church UCC.
To view Mrs. Wilson’s obituary online or to leave your condolence to the family, please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com
The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.
Steven Wesley Lewis
Steven Wesley Lewis, age 64, born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Robert Donald Lewis and Shirley Francis (Schwab) Lewis. Steve grew up in Wyoming, Michigan, and graduated from Kellogsville High School. He obtained his associates degree from LCC and his accident reconstruction certification from MSU. He served as a Sheriff’s Deputy for Allegan, Cass, and finally landed in Calhoun County, where he spent most of his career. He retired due to health issues. Steve enjoyed trips to the U.P. and especially hanging out at the cabin at Buckeye Lake. He enjoyed thrift shopping and finding “treasures” for his family.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Lewis, his mother, Shirley (Schwab) Lewis, and sister, Kathy Lewis.
He is survived by his loving wife, Kelly; daughters Alaina and Audrey Lewis; son, Steven Lewis; grandson Micah Sheridan; step-daughter Elizabeth (Westley) Rutherford; step-son Matthew (Jessica) Corliss; step-grandchildren whom he adored: Noelle and Brynlee Corliss, Owen, Gavin, and Emma Rutherford; and siblings Robert (Gloria) Lewis, Wayne (Cindy) Lewis, and Vicki (Rick) Krahn.
Funeral services were held on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Springport Bible Church with Pastor Matt Rohde officiating. The family received friends on Thursday from 4-7 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.
Those desiring may make contributions in Steve’s memory to the Springport Bible Church 240 Mechanic Street, Springport, MI 49284.
To view Steve’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.
Michael McCarty
Michael McCarty, age 77, of Charlotte, Michigan, passed away peacefully at his home on May 7, 2025.
Mike was a man who lived life with purpose, warmth, and humor. He spent his career as a dedicated plumber with Local Union 333, where his craftsmanship and work ethic earned the respect of many. Beyond the job site, he made a lasting impact as a Scout Master with the Boy Scouts of America, guiding young men with patience, wisdom, and a spirit of adventure.
Mike’s passions were as big as his heart. He had a love for growing an enormous amount of tomato plants in his garden, often turning his bounty into jars of home-canned goodness that would last through the winter. He loved to cook in quantities large enough to feed a small army, always ready to share a meal with family and friends. His culinary skills were legendary, especially when it came to his world-famous ribs, which he would proudly serve at his annual Memorial Day celebration, bringing everyone together with laughter and great food.
A lifelong cribbage enthusiast, Mike could often be found playing hours-long games with his brother John or his wife Suzie, whom he lovingly taught the game. He also spent many years as a hot air balloon chaser working as part of the crew always eager to help out and revel in the adventure of it all. Mike had a knack for finding the best breakfast spots and shared his discoveries with anyone lucky enough to join him.
He was also a man with style, a snazzy dresser for a big guy, he always made an impression with his sharp appearance. His creative side showed in his hobby of crafting unique walking sticks, each one a testament to his appreciation of nature and craftsmanship.
Mike’s storytelling was a gift, he could weave a tale with humor, warmth, and vivid detail that made everyone feel like they were part of the adventure. His stories were often filled with laughter and lessons, and he could keep a crowd entertained for hours.
Mike’s love of beagles was unwavering, and he always had at least one, if not many, by his side. He will be sorely missed by his pet beagle, Lucy. He also had a special fondness for Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula. Suzie and he would frequently load the truck, including Lucy, and head north on long weekend road trips.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Suzanne (Suzie) McCarty; his sister Dora Boody; his brothers Wayne McCarty, John McCarty (and wife Cindy); and special nephews Joe McCarty and Cyrus Prame; and many other nieces, nephews, extended family, and cherished friends.
He was predeceased by his parents, John L. McCarty and Dorothy A. McCarty (Clark).
Mike will be remembered for his generosity, his sense of humor, his loving spirit, and his ability to bring people together over a card game, a shared meal, or a road trip to a favorite diner.
A celebration of Mike’s life will be held later. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a local scouting organization or animal rescue in his honor.
To view Mike’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.