Obituaries
Grant Russell Morse
Grant Russell Morse, a man who lived with the glass half full, died on Thursday, July 31, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Grant, 80, of Potterville, was born on September 26, 1944, in Lansing, the son of Russell and Dora (McDonough) Morse. On September 1, 1963, Grant married Sandra “Sandi” Lee Derragon, and together the couple spent the next 51 years creating their legacy until her passing in 2014. He proudly served four years in the Air Force. In 1967 upon his discharge from the Air Force, Grant began working in the family trade as a “Tin Knocker” for Sheet Metal Workers Local 7. He proudly worked as a sheet metal worker until his retirement in 2001. Grant also worked alongside his wife as the cheapest employee for The Mor Agency. Hobbies that Grant enjoyed included working outside around his property, keeping everything neat and tidy, watching golf, following Michigan State athletics, and hosting family gathering at the house. Grant achieved many things in life, but nothing made him prouder than his marriage and the family they created.
Grant is survived by his children, Lori (Sean McAllister) Pajor and Brad (Cari) Morse; grandchildren, Christopher (Carissa) Morton, Rachelle Miller, Amanda (Steve) Mouzakis, and Chelsey (Justin) Hoffman; 10 great-grandchildren; sisters, Denise McLellan and Kandi Spaulding; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, Sandi; brothers, Norman Morse and Brett Morse; and his parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Grant’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A graveside service will be held on Friday, August 15, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Benton Township Cemetery. On Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. a Celebration of Life will be held at Grant’s house. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Cindy Lou Shaver
Cindy Lou Shaver, a strong-willed wife, mother, and grandmother, died on Wednesday, July 30, 2025. Cindy, 75, of Charlotte, was born on July 23, 1950, in Charlotte, the daughter of Warren and Etoile (Sattler) Priesman. In 1967 Cindy married James Shaver and together they spent the next 58 years creating lasting memories. Cindy enjoyed the simple pleasures in life such as hunting for mushrooms, wildlife watching on her property, spending time with her family, and in her younger years playing euchre.
Cindy is survived by her husband, James; children, Donna Lynn Zaluga, and James Shaver Jr.; three grandchildren, Eric Batt, Joshua Zaluga, and Dalton Zaluga; seven great-grandchildren, Joey, Jackson, Emberlynn, Brooklynn, Nathaniel, Emmett, and Gracelynn; sisters, Kathleen Eastman, Sisaleen Boyd, Judy Reed, and Linda Keith; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents; and brothers, Michael Priesman and Dennis Sisco.
Friends are encouraged to support Cindy’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A visitation was held on Monday, August 4, from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home, followed by a graveside service at 11 a.m. at Gresham Cemetery in Charlotte. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Helping Hands Food Pantry in Charlotte. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Barbara Jean Peterman
Barbara Jean Peterman. 94, of Charlotte MI, a woman of remarkable strength, kindness and unwavering Faith, died peacefully with family by her side on Monday, July 21, 2025.
Barbara was born August 2, 1930 in Superior, WI to Carl Terry Bong and Dora (Bryce) Bong. One of nine children, she grew up on a farm and held the beliefs of hard work and “making do” her entire life. Following High School graduation, Barbara spent a summer working at Glacier National Park, an experience that instilled in her a lifelong love for the outdoors. She married love of her life, Leonard Frank Peterman, on August 31, 1951 in Poplar, WI. The following year she was graduated with a Bachelor Degree in education from Superior College and taught two years in elementary schools in Duluth, Minnesota and Appleton, Wisconsin. Over the years, the Peterman family moved 10 times to different locations throughout the Midwest, following Leonard’s career with Montgomery Wards. Barbara continued teaching in many of the cities, while also raising four girls. They moved to Michigan in 1973, where Barbara worked in a secretarial position at Meijer Warehouse, retiring in 1991.
Barbara was very active in the Lutheran Church, and especially enjoyed singing in the choir. She loved sewing and craft projects, and was active in 4-H both as a member and Junior Leader for over 12 years. She also loved traveling and camping with Leonard and the children, culminating after their retirement in a month long camping trip, in which Barbara and Leonard traveled well over 2,000 miles and visited stunning national parks and family all over the United States. While living in Wisconsin, Barbara developed a consuming love of sports, beginning with the Green Bay Packers and after moving to Michigan, all Michigan State sports. (We have no idea how the Spartans will do now, without her support!)
Barbara will be remembered as a caring person of faith, leaving behind a legacy of love and service that will forever be cherished by her family and friends. Her life was a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of church and family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and in 2023, great-great grandmother. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Barbara is survived by her daughters, Wanda Atkinson, Debra Johnston, Lana Reis; and son-in-law, Randall Combs; five grandchildren, Brian Bywater, James Atkinson, Laura Atkinson, Jourdan Reis and Tony Reis; three great-grandchildren, Samantha Little, Sage Friar, and Koralee Sweet; and great-great granddaughter Olive Little. She is predeceased by her daughter, Cindy Combs; grandchildren, Shana Lee and Brandee Combs; and her parents; and all eight of her siblings.
Friends are encouraged to support Barbara’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A Memorial Service will be held on August 23, 2025, visitation will be held at 11 a.m. visitation and service at 12 noon at Peace Lutheran Church in Charlotte with Pastor Neil Brady officiating. As per her wishes, she asks that all attending to wear comfortable attire from their favorite sports teams, Spartan lovers especially! The service 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 Barbara’s Tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer, or Media from your smartphone. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Peace Lutheran Church in Charlotte. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte MI.
Narcisse Joseph Jean Cantin
Narcisse (Nelson) Joseph Jean Cantin, age 77, born October 6, 1947 in Windsor, Ontario, raised in Holt, Michigan and from Charlotte, Michigan and Athens, GA has passed away peacefully in Watkinsville, GA into the arms of Jesus on July 31, 2025, after 18 years of treatments at the cancer center.
Nelson was a devoted husband of 55 years to Melva Muncey Cantin, father, and loving grandfather. He graduated Holt High School in 1966. He worked at Servomation, Nielsen Construction, General Motors, Crazy Steve’s, Cantin’s Corner, Century 21, Coldwell Banker, RE/MAX Real Estate Professionals, RE/MAX Home Advantage, and RE/MAX Top Professionals. He had 40 years in construction, real estate, and developing. He was the previous Broker/Owner of RE/MAX Home Advantage, Inc. in Charlotte, Michigan. He developed Mott Meadows, Autumn Woods, and part of Oakridge Condominiums (many streets named after family members) before moving to Georgia to be by family. He had a passion to help others realize the dream of home ownership. Nelson had an eye to see development become reality by working with banks, title companies, and architects. He was a great leader to his agents and office associates with a positive attitude. He strived to stay up to date with technology and marketing tools. He watched HGTV until the last day of life to stay close to the industry he loved.
Nelson was an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Charlotte, MI. His girls attended St. Mary’s Catholic School. He was devoted to his Catholic faith and enjoyed all the parishioners. Nelson helped with the Fish Frys during lent and the Spaghetti Dinner. Melva and Nelson helped many times with a Valentine’s Dance and flowers. He often picked up the donuts for Sundays Mass. Nelson was a previous Grand Knight with Knight of Columbus in Charlotte, Michigan. He helped with the development of the parish addition to give space for weddings, funerals, and event space. Nelson spent many working volunteer hours with Knights on the development of the Right to Life Memorial Garden dedicated to the unborn located next to the church. Nelson and Melva Cantin joined St. Joseph Catholic Church in 2008, when they moved to Athens, Georgia. Nelson was a part of the 4th Degree, Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed handing out American Flags at a yearly fundraiser for Veteran’s Day. He attended the couple’s dinners for Knights of Columbus. He attended his grandchildren’s , Dylan and Callie Dellinger, school and fundraiser events at St. Joseph Catholic School and Monsignor Donovan Catholic High School.
Nelson loved life and people even more. Nelson and Melva had many parties to celebrate all occasions and holidays with family and friends. If there was a party or event, then he wanted to attend. He was on a bowling league, golf league, hunted, skied, played cards, and ran 5Ks in his younger years. He was adventurous and went camping with his family for years in St. Joseph, Canada above Lake Huron, hiked Yosemite National Park, and Parasailed in Hawaii, took the Black Helicopters into the volcanoes in Hawaii, Hunted Elk in Colorado, and walked on fire rocks during a promotional speaker event. Life was definitely worth taking chances and keeping faith in the Lord along the way. After moving, he became a UGA fan, Go Dawgs!
Nelson loved his two daughters and talked to them almost every day. His smile was contagious and something we all looked forward to seeing. He was overwhelmed with joy from his four grandchildren.
He loved hearing about their day and being involved in any way possible whether attending school, sporting events, or facetime on the phone because of distance.
Nelson had three siblings that he cherished. He helped with his younger brothers, Steve and Joe Cantin, when their father passed away his senior year. He worked on many business plans with Steve throughout the years. Joe and Nelson hunted, golfed, and attended Knights of Columbus events together. His beautiful sister, Louise, had many years of New Year’s celebrations together. The family sibling bond was close all the way to the end.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Narcisse Nelson Cantin and Lorna Whalen. He is also preceded in death by his wife, the love of his life for 55 years, Melva Muncey Cantin.
He is survived by two daughters, Stacie Cantin (Celebration, FL), Mandy (Jansen) Dellinger (Bogart, GA). Four grandchildren: Dylan Dellinger, Callie Dellinger, Andre Belokonev, and Lana Belokonev. Sister, Louise (Jack) Thomas (Middleburg, FL); brothers, Steve Cantin (Holt, MI) and Joe (Mary) Cantin (Lansing, MI). Many cousins, nieces, nephews, and family friends.
A viewing was scheduled for Friday, August 8, 2025, at 8 a.m. Lord & Stephens Funeral Home in Watkinsville, GA. Followed with a 9:30 a.m. Rosary and Mass at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Color Guard Knights of Columbus present. The family and friends after mass will proceed to Oconee Memorial Park for prayer and the burial. The Celebration of Life Luncheon will be at Club Estates in Statham, GA. Cards can be sent to: Mandy Dellinger, 1011 Pops Way, Bogart, GA 30622.
Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, WEST, Watkinsville, is in charge of the arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com.
Elizabeth Ann Vandecar
Elizabeth Ann Vandecar
Elizabeth “Liz” Ann Vandecar of Charlotte, Michigan, passed away on July 22, 2025, at the age of 72. Born in Ingham County, Michigan, on August 28, 1952, Liz was a graduate of the Mason High School Class of 1971. She married her high school sweetheart, Ken Vandecar, on February 18, 1972, in Mason. Liz had a deep love for animals, often taking in those in need. Throughout her life, she provided a safe place for many cats, dogs, goats, chickens, and even a mule that needed a new home. Her love of nature extended to rock hunting along the shores of Lake Huron, where she found peace and joy in collecting pudding stones and listening to the waves. She also enjoyed trips to her little wooded getaway in Harrison. Gardening was another of Liz’s great passions. She and Ken maintained a large fruit and vegetable garden every season. She enjoyed cooking and baking for her family, being particularly known for her homemade jams, jellies, and canned vegetables from her large garden. Liz’s green thumb also extended to her vast flower gardens and house plants. Liz is survived by her husband of 53 years, Ken Vandecar; daughter Nicole (Kevin) Spica and their children Kennedy and Sofia of Eaton Rapids; son Douglas Vandecar and his daughter Karlie of Howard City; son Matthew (Kristin) Vandecar and their children Brantley, Noah, and Everly of Potterville; as well as her cherished dogs, Coco, Abby, and Dixie. In accordance with Liz’s wishes, no services will be held.
Mark Gene Wellman
Mark Gene Wellman, “Pop’em”, age 61, of Oscoda and formerly Charlotte, MI, died peacefully with his family by his side on July 24, 2025. Mark was born on August 27, 1963 to Burleigh Sr. and Virginia (Nisse) Wellman in Charlotte, and he grew up there and was a 1981 graduate of Charlotte High School. Mark wasn’t a talker, he was a do-er with a big generous heart for giving and a fearless attitude which helped him get things done, fulfilling lots of dreams for his family and living life to its fullest. Working over 28 years in the roofing business with local #70 union, he was a journeyman roofer and worked on many large projects for companies including the Chrysler and GM plants, working several years for National Roofing. A fun-loving and thoughtful man, Mark enjoyed fishing, family camping trips, road trips to just about anywhere, and watching University of Michigan sports as well as Detroit Lions and Tigers (if he wasn’t watching the games, he was listening to them on the radio everywhere he went). His radio was always blaring rock music or sports, he could be heard pulling in the driveway when he got home. Family were Mark’s pride and joy, he enjoyed every moment when his daughter’s got married, when his grandchildren were born, and every opportunity he could spend with them. With an extreme love of nature, Mark loved being outdoors and sunset was his favorite time of day.
His family will fondly remember him each day with the vibrant colors of sunset, just like Mark’s vibrant life and love for them. Mark is survived by his wife of 33 years, Angela; daughters, Destiny (Brandon) Qualls and Layla (Christian) Kerry; grandchildren (aka The Babies), Camdyn, Sebastian, and Charlotte Kerry and Kempson Qualls; and his brothers, Burleigh Jr. Wellman and Mike Wellman. He was predeceased by his parents; and daughter, Chelsey in 1989.
Friends are encouraged to support Mark’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Friday, August 1, 6-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services are Saturday, August 2, 1:00 p.m. in the Pray Funeral Home Gardens with Laura Cooper 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 Mark’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Larry Horace Carter
Larry passed away peacefully at home on Monday, July 7, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born to Paul Alden Carter and Marie Georgia (Love) Carter in Charlotte, Michigan, on December 7, 1943, Larry was the youngest of six children.
For many years Larry served the Charlotte Public Schools as a dedicated staff member until retirement.
Larry was an avid outdoorsman who found peace in nature, while hunting and fishing with his friends and his son Gabe. His love of hunting included, deer, rabbits, squirrels and ducks. He was never without his loyal labrador retriever, Kizzie. And enjoyed raising and showing rabbits and pigeons since his youth. He lived for the simple meaningful moments including building and repairing things and finding joy in rock hunting.
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 51 years, Diana (Buhs) Carter; children, Gabe (Becky) Carter, Mandy Carter-Brand, and Lyndsay Carter. His grandchildren brought much pride and joy into his life, Olivia (Garrett) Falk, Rhys Carter, Evan Brand, Avery Brand, Rhylyn Carter, and Jaxon Carter, and they will remember him as their cute little grandpa with a big smile. He also leaves behind his sister, Emogene Washburn; and many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Paul Carter Jr., Joyce Liston, Delores Moist, and Nona Mix; as well as his mother-in-law and father-in-law Marion and Mary Buhs.
In keeping with Larry’s wishes cremation has taken place and a celebration of life with family will be at a later date.
To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Larry’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.NeptuneSociety.com.
Margaret Mary Dietrich
Margaret Mary Dietrich passed away on July 23, 2025, at her home in the presence of her beloved family. She was born on June 26, 1939, in Saginaw, Michigan to Zephaniah and Elise (Bolt) Graham. Margaret married the love of her life, Richard Dietrich Sr. on August 24, 1963, in Saginaw. Their love for one another was strong and unbreakable and they were looking forward to celebrating their 62nd wedding anniversary in a few short weeks.
Margaret graduated from St. Andrew’s Catholic School, and her educational journey laid the foundation for her commitment to loving and supporting the children she worked with. Margaret dedicated 29 years of her life to the Charlotte Public Schools as a para pro in the special education department, where she found great joy in helping others. Over the years, Margaret enjoyed traveling with her husband, Richard, to Florida and cherished spending time at their family cottage in Fremont.
Family was everything to Margaret. She was a proud mother to her three children, Richard (Tina) Dietrich Jr., Michael (Michonne) Dietrich, and Laura Dietrich-Rand. Her heart swelled with love for her grandchildren: Nicholas Rand, Benjamin Rand, Richard Dietrich III, Greta Dietrich, and Evelyn Dietrich, as well as her three great-grandchildren whom she adored.
Margaret is survived by her loving husband, Richard Sr.; her children; her grandchildren; and her siblings, James Graham, Carolyn (Carnie) Graham, and Barbara Franz. She was preceded in death by her parents, Zephaniah and Elise (Bolt) Graham.
Margaret’s legacy will live on through the many lives she touched in her work and the deep bonds she fostered within her family. She will be remembered for her kindness, dedication, and the warmth she brought to all her relationships.
A memorial service was held on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at 11 a.m. at First Lutheran Church, 550 E. Shepherd St., Charlotte, MI 48813 with Pastor Sean Esterline officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church.
Memorial contributions in Margaret’s memory may be made to First Lutheran Church, 550 E. Shepherd St., Charlotte MI 48813.
To view Margaret’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.
Constance Joanne Carpenter
Constance Joanne “Connie” Carpenter, age 89, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at Hospice House of Mid-Michigan in Lansing. She was born on July 12, 1936, in Charlotte, the daughter of Harold and Marguarite (Hubert) Keeny. On September 4, 1954, she married the love of her life Peter Ben Carpenter. Together her and Pete owned and operated Connie’s Beauty Studio on South Cochran Avenue in Charlotte. Connie thoroughly enjoyed her time spent bowling. She was a member of the National Bowling Association and was inducted into the United States Bowling Congress Women’s Hall of Fame. She always had a quick wit and great sense of humor. Connie enjoyed cooking and writing poetry in her spare-time. Above all else she adored her family and loved spending time together whenever possible.
Connie is survived by her daughters: Debra (Skip) Williamson, Anne Carpenter, Stacy Fry; grandchildren, Aaron Carpenter, Jessica (Saul Flores) Doty, Erik (Casey) Briggs, Ian Doty; nine great-grandchildren; brother, Phillip (Nancy) Keeny; sister, Janet (Darrell) Schultz; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Pete; brother, Kevin Keeny; granddaughter, Jennifer Wolf; grandson, Tyler Briggs; and great-grandson, Dodge Carpenter.
In keeping with Connie’s wishes cremation has taken place and no services will be held.
Those desiring may make contributions in Connie’s memory to American Cancer Society or Multiple Sclerosis Foundation.
To view Connie’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Thomas Alan St. John
Thomas “Tom” Alan St. John, age 76, of Park Hills, Missouri, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on July 22, 2025. He was born January 21, 1949, in Allegan, Michigan, the son of the late Edwin and Cecelia (Bruner) St. John.
Tom graduated from Charlotte High School with the class of 1967. On April 3, 1970, Tom married Marlene (Kapenga) St. John at Charlotte Christian Reformed Church, spending 55 wonderful years together. Tom was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. Although his work hours were long, he made it a priority to support his children and grandchildren in their multitude of events and activities. In his free time, he spent many enjoyable hours on home improvement projects, woodworking projects for his grandchildren, spending time outdoors and biking. Tom and Marlene enjoyed 13 years traveling the U.S. in their RV. He spent the past five years delivering Meals on Wheels in Farmington with his wife. Tom was a dedicated Detroit Tigers and later St. Louis Cardinals fan.
Tom is survived by his wife Marlene; his two sons, Timothy (Diane) St. John and Michael (Deb) St. John; and two grandchildren, Ryan (Rhianna) St. John and Allison (Logan Aubuchon) St. John. He is also survived by his sisters, Judy (Dick) Saurer of Salt Lake City, Utah, Deb (Ken) Mohre of Rochester, Michigan; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Dick (Joy) St. John; brothers-in-law, Richard Logan and Larry (Sue) Kapenga; and nephews, Douglas Dipple and Chuck Christensen.
In keeping with Tom’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a private graveside service will be held at a later date. Those desiring may make contributions in Tom’s memory to Parkland Health Services, Meals on Wheels in Farmington, or any charity of their choosing.
Share your condolences and memories at cozeanfuneralhome.com.