Obituaries
Karen L. Silcox
Karen Lynne (Lojewski) Silcox, a loving, social, ray of sunshine, went to be with our savior with her daughters by her side, on Wednesday, December 15, 2021. Karen, 57, of Charlotte, was born August 31, 1964, in Charlotte, MI. Daughter of John Lojewski and Christel Hose. From an early age Karen developed a love for music, she began playing the piano at 3 years old, and this love continued throughout her life. Karen was a graduate of Charlotte High School and after became a Clerk for the Circuit Court at the Eaton County Courthouse, where she retired after 31 years in 2019. In 1994 Karen married Scott Silcox and together they created lasting memories. Each year following her retirement Karen and Scott enjoyed their anniversary trips around the country and state. Karen was very social, and she never met a stranger. She was very active at the First Baptist Church in Charlotte, serving as the church pianist and upon her retirement volunteering with kids for Mother’s Day Out and Awana Club. Karen’s hobbies included working in her flowerbeds, bird watching, watching MSU sports, watching the Lions lose, her evening campfires, working on family ancestry and most importantly spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.
Karen is survived by her husband, Scott; children, Mindy (Richard) Mauck, Ashley (Joshua) Harris, Eric Silcox, and Kyle Silcox; grandchildren, Marisa, Sidena, Mackenzie, Aubrey, Tooker, Addyson, Harmony, and Jameson; parents, John (Marsha) Lojewski, Christel (Mario) Taha; siblings, Michael (Kelly Jo) Hancock, Robin Hancock, and Bryan Lumbert; in-laws, Dick (Martha) Silcox, and Darlene (Bill) LaHaie; sisters-in-law, Tracy (Brian) Marek, and Marcy (Devon) DeKett; and so many friends that were near and dear to Karen’s heart. She was predeceased by her grandparents, Otto and Anna Hose.
Friends are encouraged to support Karen’s family by attending services or sharing memories on herTribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Monday, December 20, 2021, from 3-5:00 p.m. and 7-9:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. Funeral services are Tuesday, December 21, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church in Charlotte, with Pastor Pete Kroll officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Charlotte Baseball Club, Potterville Athletic Boosters or the First Baptist Church. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Nola J. VanTyle
Nola Jean VanTyle, a lady who knew her mind and didn’t like to “make a fuss” about things, died unexpectedly December 8, 2021 in Charlotte. Born Nola Jean Poyer on November 19, 1953 to Alden Poyer and Dora (Eaton) Beeman, she graduated from Eaton Rapids High School in 1971. Three years later she married Michael VanTyle and they truly enjoyed time together and time spent with family, especially at the family cabin near Houghton Lake. Nola worked for Owens Illinois in the selecting department, retiring in 2011. She loved to travel, and often shared stories of her trips, especially her favorite trip, an Alaskan cruise. In addition, she loved driving the backroads of Michigan, often getting herself lost on purpose as she enjoyed everyday adventures in her home state. Other hobbies Nola enjoyed included fishing, crocheting, and searching for pudding stones and Petoskey stones on Michigan’s lakeshores and backroads.
Her family feels the tragic loss of the glue that held the family together, especially as they remember the Christmas slippers she crocheted for them. Nola is survived by her daughter, Lena Stadel; granddaughters, Cheyanne and Jasmine VanTyle; father, Alden Poyer; mother, Dora Beeman; and siblings, Raymond Poyer, Dale Poyer, and Dawn (Kevin) Richards. She was preceded in death by her husband, Michael VanTyle in 2010; and her son, Stacy VanTyle in 2020.
Friends and family are encouraged to support Nola’s family by sharing memories on her tribute page at www.prayfuneral.com. Funeral services were Tuesday, December 14, 2021 at Pray Funeral Home with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. The funeral was webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Nola’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). Memorial contributions are suggested to the family. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home.
Troy A. Royce
Troy Alexander Royce, age 26, of Charlotte, passed away Thursday, December 9, 2021, at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. He was born January 29, 1995, the son of Todd and Shannon (Bevel) Royce. Troy graduated from Charlotte High School with the Class of 2014. He went on to honorably serve his country in the National Guard for six years. As a celebration of their love for one another, Troy and Drita were married in a beautiful ceremony with all their many friends and family members on November 5, 2021. Troy had a huge heart and loved spending time with his wife and countless friends. He enjoyed gaming, board games, and camping up north. He and Drita were famous for hosting Taco Tuesdays at their home each week. They also cherished their time spent traveling together throughout the last few years.
Troy is survived by his wife, Drita; mother, Shannon Royce of Lansing; father, Todd Royce of Charlotte; brother, Tristen Royce of Charlotte; brother-in-law, Lindon Martini; mother-in-law, Justa Martini; father-in-law, Tom Martini; and numerous friends.
The family will receive friends on Monday, December 20, 2021, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, December 21, 2021, at 12 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastor John Bailey officiating. Burial will follow at Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte.
Those desiring, may make contributions in Troy’s honor to the family.
To view Troy’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com
Michelle L. Mullins
Michelle Lynn Mullins, 53, of Warsaw, Indiana, passed away on Wednesday, December 15, 2021 at her residence. She was born on May 11, 1968, in Albion, Michigan. Michelle was the daughter of Woodrow and Dora Mae (Marshall) Mullins. Services are pending with McHatton-Sadler Funeral Chapel, Warsaw.
Ronald L. Ramsey
Ronald Lee Ramsey, a fun, loving, and flat-out good guy, died Friday, December 10, 2021. Ronald, 85, of Vermontville, Michigan was born April 5, 1936, in Ft. Wayne, Indiana to Ivan and Elizabeth (Lee) Ramsey. Following high school graduation Ronald enlisted in the Marines and proudly served his country during the Korean War. On April 1, 1965, Ronald married the love of his life, Kay Francis Long. The couple spent the next 53 years creating their legacy until her passing in 2018. Ronald and his wife enjoyed traveling, and were proud to say that they travelled to all 50 states. He worked as a Commercial Plumber, and was a member of the Plumbers Union. Later in life Ronald started his own trucking company. His hobbies included woodworking, antiquing, trying new restaurants, spending time at Waffle Farms Campground, and anything that involves history. Ronald attended the Vermontville Methodist Church and was always a member of the American Legion Post 0222. Above all, his proudest accomplishments in life was his family and his service to his country.
Ronald is survived by his children, David (Pam) Ramsey, Teresa (Rodrick) Hall, Gary (Mary) Smith, and Cindy (Frank) Dietz; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; siblings, Bob Ewart, Chuck Ewart, and Bonnie Blessing; and several extended family members. He was predeceased by his wife, Kay; daughter, Carla Ramsey; son, Steven Ramsey; brother, Eric Zier; and his parents.
Friends and family are encouraged to support Ronald’s family by sharing memories on his tribute page at www.prayfuneral.com. Memorial contributions are suggested to The American Legion Post 0222. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home.
Elinor E. Castillo
Elinor Eloise Castillo went home to Jesus on December 11, 2021. She was born June 30, 1929, to Cassian Luis and Mae Evelyn (Anderson) Chavarria in Corozal, Belize, Central America. Affectionately known to family and friends as Ms. Baby, Granny Babes, Babi, and Tia Baby she was the matriarch of the Castillo family. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend, she adored and cherished time spent with her loved ones. Always strong in her faith and optimistic, Elinor had a quick wit, enjoyed a good laugh, and readily shared her wisdom. She was beloved and revered and is deeply missed.
Elinor is survived by her children: Candy Castillo of New York, New York; Myrna Pedelty of Olivet; Enrique (Lorena) Castillo of Corozal, Belize; Mario (Sonia) Castillo of Culver City, California; Eva (Graydon) Wildman of Midland, Ontario, Canada; 13 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters; two brothers; husband, Amador V. Castillo; sons: Javier Castillo, Rafael Castillo, Jośe Castillo, son-in-law, Joe Pedelty; and special nieces and nephews.
In keeping with Elinor’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later date. Her final resting place will be in Corozal, Belize, Central America.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Eaton Community Palliative Care.
To view Elinor’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Dana B. Christian
Dana Bert Christian, age 66 from Charlotte, Michigan passed away on December 13, 2021. She was employed at Meijer as a meat cutter. Service will be held on Monday December 20, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home.
Richard L. Johnson
Richard went home to be with the Lord December 6, 2021. Richard was born August 14th, 1926, in Grand Ledge, MI to Edward & Ina (Watts) Johnson. He attended school in Potterville, MI & Bradenton, FL. He joined the Navy in 1943, served in the Atlantic & Pacific during WWII on the Battleship Nevada.
Richard worked for Wilcox Gay, Kerrol Mfg. in Milwaukee, Reo Motors Experimental Rocket Division, and Aluminum Extrusions. He attended Barber College in Flint, Mi and started barbering in Lansing in 1959. He opened his own shop, Dick’s Barber Shop, from 1974-1999; and retired in 1999.
Richard was an avid owner-trainer of Racehorses- standard bred for 21 years in Charlotte, MI. He was a member of the United States Trotting Association, Ohio Trotting Assoc., and Illinois Trotting Assoc. He was also associated with Eaton County 4H Fair racing program.
Richard was a life member of the Charlotte VFW 2406, and a member of the USS Nevada Association. Richard was proud to have served in the Navy.
Richard was a member of the First Congregational Church in Charlotte, and the Berean Baptist Church in Fl.
Dick was preceded in death by his parents, first wife of 37 years, Norma Jean (Snyder), sister Iris Allen, brother Jack Johnson, mother-in-law Lois (Bronson) Carroll, sister-in-laws Glenna Potter, Janette Snyder, Justine Snyder, Betty Johnson, Connie Carroll, brother-in-laws Phillip Snyder, Raymond Snyder, Spencer Carroll, and William Rogers.
Survivors are his wife of 32 years, Penny (Carroll) Johnson, stepdaughter Deirdre (Tony) Sisson, 2 grandchildren, Astra & Max Sisson of Muncie, IN, sister-in-law Christina (Carroll) Rogers of Lansing, MI., and several nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at Berean Baptist Church in Leesburg, FL on December 21st. A grave side Military Service will be held in Charlotte, MI at Maple Hill Cemetery at a later date.
David R. Bowser
David Ryan Bowser, age 57, of Charlotte, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, December 12, 2021. He was born February 29, 1964, in Atlanta, Georgia the son of Ronald and Donna (Burrell) Bowser. Dave graduated from Potterville High School with the Class of 1983. On October 7, 2000, Dave married Barbara Jean Wellman in Charlotte. Dave always lovingly referred to Barb as his “Bride”. Dave worked the majority of his life as a chef. He was proud of his culinary creations and always strove to do his best in everything. He cherished his Eaton Place family and the many relationships that were created there. Dave loved music and was especially fond of singing karaoke. In his spare-time he enjoyed shopping at thrift stores, attending flea markets, and watching movies. Dave was an avid reader, and his favorites were Steven King novels. Dave adored his family, friends and loved spending time together with them. He brought a smile to everyone’s face and was a joy to be around.
Dave is survived by his wife, Barbara; mother, Donna (Richard) Marlow; siblings: Kim (Randy) Kaminski, Lisa (Don) Trierweiler, Clinton (Ronda) Bowser, Rhonda Henderson; his cats: Rascal and Riley who he referred to as his babies; father-in-law, Donald Wellman; sisters-in-law: Donna (Fred) Wright, Holly Bartlett; brothers-in-law: Mike (Sharon) Wellman, Dan (Yvonne) Murphy, Brad (Ashley) Wellman; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Ronald; and mothers-in-law: Shirley Bartlett and Rita Wellman.
In keeping with Dave’s wishes cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held on Sunday, December 19, 2021, at 1 p.m. at the Eaton Place in Charlotte.
Those desiring, may make contributions in Dave’s memory to the family.
To view Dave’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com
Ronald E. Campbell
Ronald Eugene Campbell, 75 of Olivet – famous for his “Ron-isms,” sayings like “This is your nosey neighbor,” – died December 10, 2021. Ron was born in Lansing on April 1, 1946 to Orville and June (Holton) Campbell. While Ron was very stubborn, he was also extremely thoughtful and humble with lots of stories to share. An animal lover and dog whisperer, he loved to feed the birds and the animals, and enjoyed hunting and fishing, too. Mornings were always started with a walk, afternoons were perfect for long motorcycle rides through the country, and weekends found Ron at the short tracks enjoying races. Ron was a materials handler at General Motors, working there for over 40 years before his retirement.
A devoted family man, Ron always made sure his wife had yellow roses for her birthday. He taught his kids how to drive on the ice and how to fix a car; and he passed on lots of his knowledge to his grandkids while he enjoyed time with them too. Ron and Carolyn enjoyed finding good restaurants in the middle of nowhere, especially enjoying a good cup of coffee.
Ron is survived by his wife, Carolyn; children, Kim (Casey) Mulvany, Tina (David) Churches, Ann (Steve) Osgood, Kim (Ray) Juergen, and Paula (Steven) Wathen; 11 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and sister, Kay (Michael) Iiams. He was preceded in death by great-grandson, Zyler; and brother, Clarence “Bud” Whaley.
Friends are encouraged to support Ron’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his tribute page at www.PrayFuneral.com. Funeral services are Sunday, December 19, at 3:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Keith Capman officiating. Visitation is two hours prior to the service, from 1 to 3:00 p.m. on December 19 at the funeral home. 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 Ronald’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society or the Eaton County Humane Society. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.