Obituaries
Judy Lynn Rehkopf
Judy Lynn Rehkopf, of Eaton Rapids, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at the age of 79.
Judy was born on April 13, 1946, in Eaton Rapids, the daughter of Robert and Juanita (Spence) Sheldon. She was a proud graduate of Eaton Rapids High School, Class of 1964. Following high school, Judy dedicated 25 years of service to the State of Michigan, working as a secretary in the Department of Corrections before retiring in 1996. She later explored a new path as a real estate agent with Conner Realty in Eaton Rapids.
A true snowbird at heart, Judy cherished her time spent at Lettuce Lake Travel Resort in Punta Gorda, Florida, as well as her time in Michigan—between Eaton Rapids, Charlotte, and the log cabin she and her late husband, Chester, lovingly built at Sutherland Lake in Harrison.
Judy was known for her warm spirit and vibrant personality. A natural social butterfly, she treasured her friendships and remained closely connected with her classmates and lifelong companions. She found great joy in Michigan’s natural beauty and especially loved watching the sunsets over Lake Michigan. Above all, Judy cherished the time she spent with her family and friends creating cherished memories.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Chester, and her parents.
Judy is survived by her daughters, Sheila (Brett) Ward and Kristina (Phil) Newsome; grandchildren, Nicholas Richards, Tyler (McKenzie) Newsome, Dylan (Angel Markle) Newsome, Maxie (Josh) Naramor, Samantha (Drew) Harding, and John (Bethany) Ward; great-grandchildren, Riley, Maddilynn, Chester, Arley, Weston, Nevaeh, Graden, Maeve, and Maryann. She is also survived by her sisters, Pat (John) Coy and Kay (Al) Redner, along with many extended family members and dear friends.
A celebration of Judy’s life will be held on Sunday, April 27, 2025, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Red Ribbon Hall in Eaton Rapids. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Red Cross in Judy’s memory. To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Donald Lynn Soule
Donald Lynn Soule of Mason, passed away peacefully in his home on April 18, 2025, at the age of 75. Don was a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, and a man of deep faith. He served his country honorably as a Vietnam veteran and was awarded the bronze star of valor. After his service, he earned an IT degree and dedicated many years of his life working for the State of Michigan, retiring in 1999. Don was also a faithful member of St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Holt, Michigan for over 50 years, volunteering weekly to count the congregation’s offerings. He loved the outdoors, and enjoyed golfing with his brother Ronald and family, and spending time with his family in Northern Michigan every summer. Don will be remembered for his quiet strength, quick wit, his deep love for his family, and his unwavering faith. His legacy lives on in the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Don is survived by his four children; Tamara (Paul) Roush, Thomas Soule, Timothy (Heather) Soule, and Tiffany (William) Horton; grandchildren; Joshua (Stacey) Allen, Jeremiah (Kyle) Allen, Joel Allen, Abrianna Soule, Alexandria (Isaac) Evenson, Chloe Soule, Addison Soule, Wesley Horton, David Horton, and Grace Horton; great-grandchildren Eli and Isaiah Allen, with another great-grandchild expected this summer. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife and high school sweetheart, Paulette Sue Soule (Merwin), with whom he shared 52 years of marriage. Their love and commitment remain an enduring example to all who knew them.
A funeral service to celebrate his life was held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday April 23, 2025, at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 2418 N. Aurelius Road, Holt, MI 48842. Visitation took place on Tuesday from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel and at the church one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund, 1530 Wilson Blvd., Suite 550 Arlington, VA 22209. To leave condolences for the family, please visit our website, ww.millsfuneral.com.
Barbara Alice Wells
Barbara Alice Wells, age 72, was born on November 21, 1952, in Charlotte, Michigan to Thomas and Agnes (Smith) Mills. She passed away peacefully on April 14, 2025 at her favorite time 4:20, surrounded by her loved ones. Barbara was a remarkable individual whose strong spirit and caring nature left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her.
Throughout her life, Barbara was known for her unwavering work ethic. A “tough as nails” worker, she dedicated herself to several manufacturing factories in Charlotte, with her favorite job being at Charlotte Art Glass, where she skillfully built stained glass windows. Her commitment to her work was matched only by her generosity. Barbara was a very giving lady, often making food and blankets that she lovingly gifted to her co-workers on their birthdays or other special occasions.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Barbara was a loving mother and a second mom to her children’s friends. She had a knack for nurturing those around her, setting boundaries with care while showering them with affection. Barbara was beloved for her straightforwardness; she felt free to express her thoughts openly, which endeared her to many. She was a loyal and hardworking mother who always placed her family’s needs before her own.
Barbara leaves behind a loving family, including her children Lisa and Kraig Bowen, Charlotte, MI; Tom and DeeAdra Wells, Greenwood, MO; Kitty and Bobby Butler, Bunker Hill, IL; and Krissy and John Hamilton, Edwardsville, IL. She was a proud grandmother to nine grandchildren and cherished her two great-grandchildren, with one more on the way. Barbara is also survived by her sisters Vicki Ball and Jacque and Jeff Sage, along with her brother, Randy and Carla Mills.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Gary Wells, in 2024; her sister Dianna Webb; and her brothers Donny Mills, Douglas Mills and her loving dog Lucy.
A Celebration of Life will be held in her honor at the Charlotte Eagles Club on Saturday, May 24, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. This gathering invites friends and loved ones to come together, share stories, and celebrate the beautiful life Barbara lived.
Those desiring to make contributions in Barbara’s memory may do so by donating to Hospice of Lansing, 3411 Stoneleigh Drive, Lansing, Michigan 48910.
To view Barbara’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.
Nancy Lee Manning
Nancy Lee Manning, born on March 21, 1933, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, passed away peacefully into the loving arms of her Savior on April 13, 2025, in Potterville, Michigan. She lived a life that was a testament to her faith in her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, serving as a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
Nancy graduated in 1950 from Union High School in Grand Rapids. She married Gordon Manning on February 26, 1954, and remained faithfully married to him for over 60 years, until his death in 2014. Her nurturing heart and unwavering dedication were evident in her role as a teacher for the Preschool Sunday School Class at Calvary Baptist Church, a service she and Gordon were proud to provide for many years. Her faith was central to her life, and she was a valued member of Calvary Baptist Church in Charlotte, having also been active in Highland Hills Baptist Church in Grand Rapids and Northeastern Baptist Church in Kalamazoo.
Outside of her family and faith, Nancy engaged in numerous hobbies that brought her joy. She enjoyed sewing and knitting, finding solace in poetry, as well as crafting and painting. These artistic endeavors reflected her vibrant personality and her desire to share beauty with those around her.
Nancy leaves behind a beloved family. She is survived by her sons, Mark (Susan) Manning and Ryan (Beverly) Manning. Her legacy will continue through her grandchildren Gabe (Jami) Evans, Emily (Cody) VanPelt, Erika (Derik) Rickerd, Mike (Kelly) Manning, Matt (Carlin) Manning, and Mara Manning, as well as her thirteen great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews who will carry her memory in their hearts.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Cornelius and Josephine (DeJong) VanDyke; husband, Gordon Manning; her sister, Evelyn (Garth) Mann; her brother, Melvin (Bette) VanDyke; and her great-grandson, Leo Vannoni.
Funeral services were held on Good Friday, April 18, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Pastor Tim Potter officiating. The family received friends on Thursday from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. all at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Maple Hill Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contributions in Nancy’s memory to Calvary Baptist Church 825 N. Cochran Ave., Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Nancy’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com
Cherie Sue Ells
Cherie Sue Ells, born on August 12, 1963, in Jacksonville, Florida, passed away on April 9, 2025, in Charlotte, Michigan. Cherie graduated from Charlotte High School in 1981 and carried with her an outgoing personality that brightened the lives of those around her.
She was a devoted mother to her son, Jason E. Ells, and cherished time spent with her family. Cherie had a love for gathering around a campfire with family and friends, where stories were shared and laughter echoed into the night. She enjoyed singing karaoke, belting out classic tunes, and was a devoted fan of classic rock music. Cherie also had a penchant for game shows and delighted in the challenge of crossword puzzles.
Cherie is survived by her son Jason E. Ells, her brothers Bruce (Coetta) Davis, as well as Mark (Kathryn) Davis. She leaves behind several nieces and nephews who will remember her fondly.
Cherie was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Maurine Clark.
In keeping with the family’s wishes cremation has taken place and no services are scheduled at this time.
Those desiring may make contributions to the family.
To view Cherie’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.