Obituaries
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.
Angie Ferguson
Angie (Ziggy) Ferguson, 59, of Charlotte, MI, class of 1984, born June 6 of 1966, went to Heaven on July 3, 2025 to continue to watch over her family and many friends.
Being a fighter all of her life, always protecting family and friends, who would have thought she would have to face the biggest bully of all; cancer. She fought for seven years always thinking of the pain that would come to her family and friends when she lost her battle.
Angie went to Insty-Prints school in Minneapolis, MN in 1986. Her printing career included working at Insty-Prints, Wheeler Dealer, John Henry, and other print shops in Michigan running some of the biggest printing presses in the state. She also worked for A Clean Cigarette and opened numerous locations across the state for them.
She spent her lifetime loving and caring for others and loved working with charitable communities caring for the homeless. She always carried extra gloves in her car to hand out in the winter and money if she had any extra. Her love for music brought her many more friends, especially followers of our friend Billy Strings. She also loved showing the picture on her phone of her ‘boyfriend’ Steven Tyler hugging her.
She left wonderful memories for her loving and devoted family; Sharon Pakosz, mother; Ed (Sue) Ferguson, father; children Keagan Ferguson, Sydney Putmon, Cody and Brandon Hall; grandchildren, Quinten Ferguson, Nirvana Ferguson, Atlas Gombosi.
Brothers Jeff (Sherry) Ferguson, Junior (Angie) Visger, Scott (Karen) Visger, Mike (Jesssica) Ferguson, Bretton Ferguson, Ben (Lindsay) Ferguson. Sisters Valerie Pruden and Trulinda (Phil) Laycock; many wonderful aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.
In keeping with Angie’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, August 10, 2025 at 3 p.m. at the American Legion Post 42 in Charlotte MI, 1000 Lawrence Hwy., Charlotte, MI 48813.
Shea John Nowlan
Shea John Nowlan, 51 years of age, of Charlotte, MI, loved making others laugh, especially with jokes and random quotes. Shea died unexpectedly on July 16, 2025, leaving his family longing for more. Born in Southfield, MI on February 15, 1974 to Joe and Glory (Carlin) Nowlan, Shea grew up in a wonderful household. He graduated from De La Salle Collegiate High School in Warren, MI and went on to get his Bachelor’s Degree in History from MSU, as he was an American History buff. Shea spent 26 years working in the wine industry, receiving significant accolades for his excellent sales. Afterwards, he transitioned to the insurance field and thrived, receiving many certifications over a short period of time. He was with his wife, then girlfriend, Dawn Levandusky for five years, before marrying in 2001, where they spent 24 years together building a beautiful family and life. No matter how busy life was, Shea always made time for his kids, his marriage, his family, and his friends. He enjoyed traveling around the world and experiencing different cultures, especially through tasting wine and visiting vineyards on trips to Italy, Napa Valley, and West Michigan. He greatly enjoyed fine dining, as he was a foodie at heart, and was always willing to try a new dish, no matter how foreign it may have seemed.
Shea leaves a hole in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, his zest for life, and his knack for making those around him feel seen and loved. He is survived by his wife, Dawn; children, Samuel and Jillian Nowlan; siblings, Shawn (Pharanee Jiab) Nowlan, Michael Nowlan, and Colleen (Greg) Overla; his in-laws, Daniel and Glenda Levandusky; several beloved nieces and nephews; and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Glory Nowlan; and sister-in-law, Lolita Nowlan.
Friends are encouraged to support Shea’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte on Tuesday, July 22, from 1-3:00 p.m. and 5-8:00 p.m. with a family affirmation service at 7:00 p.m. The family would love it if you could share your Shea stories during the affirmation service. A Rosary Service will follow at 8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. He lied in state at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte on Wednesday, July 23 at 10:00 a.m. with the Funeral Mass celebrated at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop. The funeral was webcasted so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, memorial contributions are suggested to the family. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Michael William Ranville
Michael William “Mike” Ranville died on July 19, 2025. He was an author, political consultant, and historian. He was a resident of Charlotte for more than 50 years, and an active parishioner at St. Mary’s Catholic Church.
Mike Ranville was born in Flint, Michigan on December 3, 1943, and attended St. Agnes High School in Flint where he starred on both the football and baseball teams. He graduated from Central Michigan University with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a master’s degree in communications.
Mike joined the United States Air Force in 1966 and was stationed in Washington, D.C. where he was responsible for communications support for the presidential aircraft, Air Force One.
After leaving the service, Mike returned to Michigan and began a career in communications and public relations. He later served as director of the Michigan Senate Democratic Staff.
Mike then joined Karoub Associates, a leading political consulting firm in Lansing. He became a partner, and represented the interests of many clients before the state legislature. Among his clients were the Michigan State Police Troopers Association, the Michigan Trucking Association, and his favorite, the Michigan Library Association, because of their zeal in advocating for free speech.
Mike’s great passion in life, besides the Detroit Lions and Detroit Tigers, was writing and storytelling. He was the author of “To Strike at a King: The Turning Point in the McCarthy Witch-Hunt” (1997) and co-author of “Life to the Years: Living A Robust Life After Heart Disease” (2018). When he passed, he was working on “A Page in History,” about how communication and alliances across the aisle can solve important problems, and a biography of Gregory Eaton, his close friend and colleague.
He was also the author of numerous articles concerning history, sports, and politics, with his writing appearing in various publications including The Sporting News, Michigan History Magazine, Michigan Chronicle, Reminisce, and the Charlotte Shopping Guide.
Mike was a member of the Board of Directors of the Michigan Historical Commission, the Michigan Political History Society, and the Charlotte Performing Arts Center, and served on the Charlotte Planning Commission and for other organizations. He was a founding member of STEWED and co-founder of FROC.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Carol (Schaafsma) of Charlotte; his daughter, Mara, of New York; and by seven brothers and sisters: Donald, David, Dennis, Mary, Martin, Gerard, and Laurice; and by many nieces and nephews. Mike was the son of the late Donald R. Ranville and Dorothy M. (Wallace) Ranville.
Friends are encouraged to support Mike’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Friday, July 25, 2025 from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. with a Rosary being said at 5:30 p.m. Funeral Mass will be Saturday, July 26, 2025 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Charlotte with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop 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 Mike’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). Memorials in lieu of flowers can be made to the Courthouse Square Association, a nonprofit in Charlotte, Michigan (https://www.csamuseum.net/donate) or St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Charlotte (https://osvhub.com/the-catholic-community-of/giving/funds). The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Julie Ann Smith
Julie Ann Smith, age 63, of Charlotte, Michigan, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on July 22, 2025. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Virginia and Wallace Wollpert.
Julie is survived by her devoted husband and the love of her life, Eric Smith, with whom she shared a beautiful journey that began when they met at the age of 16. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, adventure, travel, and cherished time at their cabin. Their bond was one of deep affection and enduring companionship.
Julie’s legacy lives on through her children, Matt Smith (Jared) and Melissa Tirrell (Ben); her cherished granddaughter, Kaylee Palma; and her loving sisters, Jody Pollock and Laura Wollpert.
Julie was a woman of extraordinary warmth, kindness, and selflessness. She had a joyful spirit, a radiant smile, and a heart that welcomed everyone. To know Julie was truly to love her. She brought light into every room, fun into every gathering, and comfort into every relationship.
For more than 30 years, Julie dedicated her time and love to caring for children through her daycare, helping to care for children with the same compassion and attention she gave her own family.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 28 at 11:00 a.m. at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home in Charlotte, MI. Visitations will take place on Sunday, July 27, from 2:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. and from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. and at 10:00 a.m. prior to the funeral service. All who knew and loved Julie are welcome to attend and celebrate her beautiful life.
Those desiring may make contributions in Julie’s memory to ALS of Michigan, 24359 Northwestern Hwy., Suite 100, Southfield, MI 48075 or the Susan Mast ALS Foundation, 2500 Waldorf Ct. NW, Suite B, Grand Rapids, MI 49544.
To view Julie’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.