Obituaries
Waneta Merle Haviland
Waneta Merle Haviland, 93, of Battle Creek, a loving and determined woman, died June 20, 2026. Waneta, was born May 19, 1933, in St. Johns, Michigan, to William “Earl” and Ruby (Ordway) Rumbaugh. She was raised by the Roisier family starting at the age of four. She was a woman of remarkable strength and character — giving, caring, fiercely independent, and just stubborn enough to accomplish whatever she set her mind to. She was a devoted homemaker and worked as a banker. She met the love of her life, William, while working at the bank, beginning a partnership that would shape the rest of her life. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures: writing letters to family, reading a good book, listening to old hymns, tending her vegetable and fruit gardens, canning the harvest, and taking walks. She loved sharing a meal or playing cards with friends or visiting loved ones.
Her faith was a guiding force throughout her life, and she cherished attending church and serving others. One of her greatest acts of love was opening her home and heart to children in need, fostering more than 100 children over the years and providing them with care, stability, and compassion. Though she touched countless lives through her kindness and generosity, her greatest pride was always her family. She treasured every moment spent with them and considered them her most precious blessing and enduring legacy.
Waneta is survived by her children, Mark (Judy) Haviland, Mike (Elizabeth) Atchley, Michael (Micki) Haviland, and William (Pam) Haviland; 10 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and numerous extended family members. siblings, Oleta Koeppen, Helen DeRuiter, Onalee Vienly, and Ruth Ann (Harold) Darling. She was predeceased by her husband Maurice William Haviland in 2005; daughter, Renee Haviland; her brother, Bill Rumbaugh; sisters Lee Vienley, Helen DeRuiter, Oleta Koeppen, and Ruth Ann Darling;, and her parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Waneta’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Funeral services followed on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Terry LaDuke officiating. 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 Waneta’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Wounded Warriors. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
James Randall Barstow
James Randall Barstow, 66, of Mishawaka, Indiana, formerly of Charlotte, Michigan, passed away on June 22, 2026. A selfless man with an unwaveringly positive spirit, James was born on March 3, 1960, in Galesburg, Illinois, the son of Merle and Rachel Anne (Holscher) Barstow.
James attended Charlotte High School, where he was a proud member of the 1978 championship basketball team. His love of sports continued throughout his life and led him to play basketball for two years at the University of Akron. Whether on the court or in everyday life, James approached challenges with optimism, always finding the bright side of any situation. He was known for his strong work ethic during his years as a Dish Network technician, where customers valued both his technical expertise and his friendly, dependable nature. James also enjoyed keeping active and liked to joke that he was still “good looking and in shape—for a man his age.”
Above all, James was a devoted father and grandfather. His daughters were the center of his world, and he loved them with all his heart. Becoming a grandpa to Paisley and Montana brought him immense joy and was one of his greatest blessings. James’ compassion, positivity, and love for his family will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.
James is survived by daughters; Izabella Wood and Emmelia Barstow; granddaughters Paisley and Montana; sisters, Susan (Bill) Taylor, Jane Barstow-Boettcher, and Nancy Barstow; brothers, Dan (Stacie) Barstow, Ben (Dawn Takamoto) Barstow, and Matt Barstow; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father; Merle, in 2003; mother, Anne, in 2024; and his sister; Diana Barstow in 1988.
Friends are encouraged to support James’ family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. A graveside service was held Friday, June 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Maple Hill Cemetery with Pastor John Bailey, officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to his grandchildren, payable to Izabella Wood. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
James John McCarthy
James John McCarthy, 84, of Charlotte, a man who proudly served his country in the United States Navy, passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2026. James was born on August 15, 1941, in Ishpeming, Michigan, the son of John James and Mary (Makela) McCarthy. On March 25, 1972, James married Patricia Anne Ryan and together they spent the next 52 years creating lasting memories until her passing in 2025. He worked as a machine repairman for Kellogg’s for 20 years until his retirement in 2001. In his younger years James enjoyed playing a round of golf and hunting. He was a member of ELKs Lodge in Ishpeming.
James is survived by his son, Shawn McCarthy; sister, Kathleen (Reuben) Kjellman; and numerous extended family members and beloved friends. He was predeceased by his wife, Patricia; and his parents.
Friends are encouraged to support James’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A graveside service was held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Terry Allen Tast
Terry Allen Tast, better known as T-Man, 74, of Charlotte, Michigan, a man who felt most at home in the outdoors, died June 7, 2026. Terry was born January 27, 1952, in Ashland, Wisconsin, the son of Paul and Joan (Barker) Tast. His father, Paul, passed away when Terry was four and his mother later married Chris Temcoff who became Terry’s loving father.
Terry graduated from Charlotte High School in 1970 and married Susan Grace Larsen in 1972. He proudly served in the National Guard for six years. He worked for AT&T as a repairman for more than 35 years before spending five years as an EATRAN driver. When he wasn’t working, he could often be found outdoors enjoying the simple pleasures of nature. He loved camping beneath the stars, canoeing or rafting across quiet waters, and gathering around a crackling campfire with family and friends. Whether listening to the sounds of the woods, or simply soaking in the beauty of the natural world, Terry found peace and joy outside, watering the yard and making it sing carols. If he wasn’t in the yard, you would find him in the “geeraage” listening to the tunes of Bob Seger, AC/DC, and the roar of NASCAR engines. Terry’s adventurous spirit, love of nature, and appreciation for life’s simple moments will be remembered by all who knew him.
Terry is survived by his loving wife; daughter, Sara (Nick) Lincoln; granddaughter, Emma Lincoln; brother; Tracy (Deborah) Temcoff; and godson, Casey Ward.
Friends are encouraged to support Terry’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A private celebration of life will be scheduled in July. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Tower to Tunnels Foundation (T2T.org). The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Marcia Jean Clone
Marcia Jean Clone, age 84, passed away peacefully at her home in Cedar, Michigan, on June 2, 2026.
Born on October 22, 1941, in Somerville, New Jersey to John and Edna Hannon, Marcia moved with her family to the Lansing area as a child. She graduated from Eaton Rapids High School in 1959 before attending Michigan State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education in 1963 and later completed a Master’s degree in Environmental Education.
During her high school years, Marcia met the love of her life, Gary Clone. They married in 1965 and shared more than four decades of love, partnership, laughter, and adventure. Together they raised three sons Eric, Kristofer, and Shawn and built a family that remained the center of Marcia’s life. Whether traveling the country, exploring the outdoors, or gathering around the family table, Marcia found her greatest joy in the people she loved. Though Gary passed away in 2009, the life they created together remained one of her proudest accomplishments.
Teaching was not simply Marcia’s profession, it was her calling. She began her career with Lansing Public Schools, where her gift for connecting with children quickly became evident. In 1978, she and Gary realized their dream of moving to northern Michigan, settling in Williamsburg. Soon afterward, Marcia joined Elk Rapids Public Schools, where she spent many years teaching third grade. To generations of students, she was more than a teacher; she was an encourager, a guide, and a champion of curiosity. Her classroom was a place where children felt valued, inspired, and excited to learn.
Marcia believed deeply in giving back to her community and devoted countless hours to causes she cared about. She volunteered with the National Cherry Festival, the Traverse City Film Festival, and the Leelanau Christian Neighbors Baby Pantry. Her passion for environmental education led her to serve as a guest teacher with the Inland Seas Education Association aboard the schooner S/V Inland Seas and at the Grand Traverse Conservation District’s Boardman Nature Center. Her faith was equally important to her. Through her involvement with United Methodist Women and Church Women United, she found meaningful ways to serve others and was honored as “Church Woman of the Year” in recognition of her dedication and compassionate spirit.
A lifelong lover of nature, Marcia’s appreciation for the outdoors began in Girl Scouts, where she earned the prestigious Curved Bar Award, the organization’s highest honor at the time. That love of exploration stayed with her throughout her life. She visited all 50 states, as well as Europe, and delighted in discovering the beauty and history of new places. America’s National Parks held a special place in her heart, and she treasured every opportunity to experience them.
Those who knew Marcia will remember her remarkable intelligence, her kindness, her adventurous spirit, and her endless curiosity about the world. She had a gift for making others feel welcome, valued, and heard. Whether she was teaching a child, helping a neighbor, volunteering in her community, or sharing stories with family and friends, Marcia led with compassion and grace. Her influence reached far beyond her own family, touching the lives of countless students, friends, and community members over the years.
Marcia leaves behind a legacy of love, service, learning, and stewardship. She is survived by her sons, Eric (Melissa), Kris (Charlsey), and Shawn (Brittany); her nine beloved grandchildren; her sister, Nancy Vertalka; and many nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and dear friends who will cherish her memory.
Marcia will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered always.
A memorial service will be held on July 11, 2026 at 1 p.m. with visitation beginning at 12:00 pm at the Williamsburg United Methodist Church with a light luncheon to follow. – 5750 Williamsburg Rd., Williamsburg, MI.
In lieu of flowers, Marcia requested that memorial contributions be made to the Inland Seas Education Association, whose mission is to inspire a lifetime of Great Lakes curiosity, stewardship, and passion in people of all ages. Donations may be made through the association’s spring giving campaign: Donate in Memory of Marcia Clone
Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your thoughts and memories of Marcia with her family.
Russell Patrick Olejownik
Russell Patrick Olejownik of Eaton Rapids, Michigan, passed away on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, following a short illness. He was 69 years old.
Russ was born on March 17, 1957, in Toledo, Ohio, to Roland and Ruth (Budy) Olejownik. He was raised in Toledo and graduated from Central Catholic High School with the Class of 1975. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and a master’s degree from Sam Houston State University.
Russ dedicated his life to education and spent his entire professional career serving students and schools. He began his career in Texas before moving to Coldwater, Michigan, where he taught and coached the high school girls’ basketball team to an undefeated season. He later settled in Eaton Rapids, where he spent the remainder of his career.
Russ served as Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at Eaton Rapids Middle School, then as Principal at both Lockwood Elementary School, and Greyhound Intermediate School.
A devoted Michigan State Spartan fan, Russ enjoyed gardening, watching storms roll in from the porch, and spending time outdoors. He especially enjoyed trips to the casino with his wife, Nancy. Nothing brought him greater joy than time spent with his beloved granddaughter, Penelope, particularly their fishing adventures together.
Russ also loved traveling with his family. He and Nancy enjoyed visiting the East Coast, and together they made many cherished memories during family trips to Florida and Disneyworld.
Russ was preceded in death by his parents and his in-laws.
He is survived by his loving wife, Nancy (Flechsig) Olejownik; daughters, Rebecca Olejownik and Kristina Olejownik; granddaughter, Penelope Olejownik; brother, Christopher (Kim) Olejownik; sisters, Laura (Mike) Miller and Julie (Todd) Shultz; special friends, Bruce and Deb VanAken; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
A Memorial Celebration will be held on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, from 3 to 7 p.m., with a brief prayer service and reading beginning at 7 p.m. at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a college fund established for Penelope Olejownik, in care of Rebecca Olejownik.
To share memories or leave online condolences, please visit Skinner Funeral Homes.
Keith Darwin Bayha
Keith Darwin Bayha, born March 5, 1940 in Emmett County, Michigan, passed away in Alaska on June 2, 2026. Keith lived a long and meaningful life, full of adventure and accomplishments. He documented many in his writings, professional and non-professional publications, journals, and an autobiography. Prominent among these are the seven-volume “History of Muzzle Loading in Alaska,” “Anatomy of a River,” and Bayha family genealogy.
He grew up in a civil war era farmhouse in southern Michigan and graduated from Bellevue High School and Michigan State University while enrolled in a football scholarship. In Bellevue High School as captain of the football team, his coach often commented about his “command presence.”
As youngster he dreamed of trapping in Alaska when exploring fields and pastures. He retired from a 37-year career with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service serving in Michigan, North Dakota, Idaho, Washington D.C., Colorado, and Alaska. He will be remembered by his colleagues for his role in creating and elevating the discipline “Instream Flow” which is the quantification of water requirements of fish and wildlife and other uses of water in streams and lakes and securing their protection by establishing water rights.
Keith was an active leader among muzzle loading enthusiasts and trappers in Alaska and nationally. The South Central Chapter of Alaska Trappers Association recently created a scholarship in his name awarded yearly. His hobbies include hunting, birdwatching, painting, trapping, and muzzleloader target shooting, and other shooting events. While working in Washington D. C. in the 1970s, he created a painting key to elevating interest in stopping the development of a scenic valley in Idaho. The painting is now displayed in a visitor’s center in Idaho.
He and his wife, Beverly participated in national muzzleloading shoots in Indiana and Arizona. He served on the NMLRA national board for two years and as officer of several organizations in Alaska. In his younger years, he officiated at baseball and football games. He especially enjoyed side coaching young football players. He prided himself as having worked at Mc Donalds’ in the 1960s to pay off college loans. He predeceased his parents, former wife, and a brother. Survivors include his wife Beverly, sister, two sons, stepdaughter, stepson, three grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
Karen Louise Sparks
Karen Louise Sparks was born on September 20, 1967 in Baltimore, Maryland.
She went home to be with her Lord on June 1, 2026.
Karen met the love of her life, Kelly Sparks in 2001. They were married on Dec. 23, 2011. She was a devoted wife to her husband Kelly, and they were a happy couple ever since.
Karen had the heart of a servant!
She and Kelly have fostered many dogs that were abandoned on their property over the years, 29 dogs at one point, to be exact. They fed and nurtured each one.
Karen was a dedicated, hardworking employee of General Motors for 30 years, before she retired, not long ago.
No matter where the job was, or how difficult the task, she always gave it her all!
Karen was a true and loyal friend!
She will be remembered for her loving spirit, her kindness and generosity to all who knew and loved her.
Karen is survived by her husband, Kelly Sparks of Kopperl, Texas. Her sister-in-law, Shannon Cooksley and husband Kevin of Wiesert, Nebraska. Her brother-in-law, Greg Sparks and wife Jeanie of Charlotte, Michigan, and special friend, Lisa Hall of Rio Vista, Texas. They had many nieces and nephews also, as survivors.
Arrangements made by Lawson Funeral Home in Meridian, Texas. Interment in Hastings Charter Township Cemetery, in Hastings, Michigan.
Michael Harry Castagnasso
Michael Harry Castagnasso, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2026, in Charlotte, Michigan. He was born on June 28, 1956, in Fallon, Nevada, the son of Donald and Helen (Muddox) Castagnasso. Mike lived a life deeply rooted in family, hard work, and enduring passions.
A proud graduate of Charlotte High School, Class of 1974, Mike distinguished himself early on through exceptional leadership, serving as class president. His commitment to responsibility and service was evident not only in his school years but carried throughout his entire life.
Mike’s career was defined by his unwavering dedication to driving semi-trucks, a vocation he pursued with steadfast pride and consistency. Behind the wheel, he found both purpose and pride, spending decades navigating the roads and contributing to the lifeblood of commerce.
Raised in a family devoted to the care and showcasing of Clydesdale horses, Mike’s love for these magnificent animals ran deep – truly a family heritage that flowed in his veins. This connection to the horses exemplified his respect for tradition and nature’s grandeur.
Outside of work and family commitments, Mike found joy in the excitement of sports. He was an avid fan of baseball, hockey, and NASCAR, often drawing energy and camaraderie from the games. Yet, above all, there was nothing more meaningful to him than spending quality time with his loved ones.
He was preceded in death by his parents; twin brother, Tony Castagnasso; brother, Dennis Castagnasso; sister, Carrie Hudson; and niece, Jennifer Castagnasso.
Mike is survived by his son, Craig (Angie) Castagnasso; step-children, Stacey (Jim) Clickner, Michael Naylor; grandchildren, Kylie Clickner, Seth Clickner; brother, Barry (Betsy) Castagnasso, Simone Goyenche; sister-in-law, Maureen Castagnasso; special niece, Rebecca Castagnasso; nephew, Doug (Morgan) Castagnasso; and several other nieces, nephews and friends.
A celebration of Mike’s life will be held on Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the VFW Post 2406, 695 Lansing Rd., Charlotte, Michigan 48813.
Those desiring may make contributions in Mike’s memory to their local Meals on Wheels or the charity of their choice.
To view Mike’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.
Catherine Marie West
Catherine Marie West, affectionately known as Cathy, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2026, in Charlotte, Michigan, with her family by her side. Born on August 13, 1947, in Lansing, Michigan, to Raymond and Mary (Henderson) Schalow, Cathy lived a life marked by kindness, generosity, and a deep love for her family and faith.
Cathy was raised and educated in Potterville, attending local schools and graduating with the class of 1965 from Potterville High School. She was a devoted member of Sycamore Creek Church in Potterville, where her love for the Lord was a guiding force in her life. Throughout her years, she exemplified a spirit of giving and compassion, driven by her dedication to helping others.
Professionally, Cathy worked for many years as an administrative secretary for the UAW. Beyond her career, she found great joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially cooking for family gatherings. Family was paramount to her, and she cherished every opportunity to nurture those close to her. She loved supporting her grandkids at school functions and cheering them on at their various sporting events. Cathy also had a special talent for crocheting blankets, which she lovingly made for her family members.
In her earlier years, Cathy spent many hours riding alongside her husband Jim while he drove truck, sharing in the journeys of life together. Her commitment to service extended to her community through her involvement with food banks, where she took pride in helping with food distributions to those in need. Cathy’s caring nature and love for her fellow mankind left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
She is survived by her sons, Jim (Missi Latter) West of Lansing, and Eric West of Charlotte; her four grandchildren, Morgan West, McKenzie (Samantha) Shotwell, Abbi West, and Micah (Ashley Nordman) West; and one great-granddaughter, Lucie, who Cathy was awaiting her arrival in September. Her siblings, Dennis (Joanne) Schalow, Mark (Charlyn) Cosgrove, Steven (Melanie) Belzek, Steven (Sharon) Schalow, Edward Schalow, Pamela (Robin) Luce, Jeffrey (Anne) Henderson, Karen (Herm) Arends; sister-in-law Heather Henderson; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Jim in 2000, and her brother Mark Henderson.
Services were held at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home on Friday, June 12, 2026 at noon with Pastor Toby Teague officiating. The family received friends at the visitation for one hour prior to the service. A luncheon followed from 12:30-2:30 p.m. at the American Legion- Charlotte, 1000 W. Lawrence Hwy, Charlotte, Michigan 48813.
Those desiring to make memorial contributions in Cathy’s memory may do so by donating to a local food bank.
To view Cathy’s obituary online or to send condolences to the family, please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.