Obituaries
Russell M. Densmore
Russell Merle Densmore was born on July 17, 1932 and he took the checker flag on October 29, 2020. If you knew Russ you knew he loved and lived racing. As a young man he would race at Jackson Speedway. It was in his blood, so much that he decided to build his own Michigan Ideal Speedway. He worked 40 years at Michigan International Speedway (Fire Rescue). Russ was a volunteer firefighter/first responder, he also spent time in law enforcement and built a propane business, Thermogas of Springport, Mich.
Russ is survived by his wife Pat, having just passed 44 years together. Also surviving are his twin daughters, Joan Densmore (Dutch), June (Rick) Stevens; step-sons, Dave (Kim) Eddy, Steve (Joie) Eddy; grandchildren, Nicky, Richard, Chris, Jenny, Ethan, Abbey, Kim and Donna; several great-grandchildren; sister, Donna (Leon) Hinderer; several nieces and nephews and their spouses. Russ was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Mildred (Dunn) Densmore; daughter, Dianne Chunko; great-grandsons, Dylan and Colton Aukerman; brothers, Ed (Gwen) and Dale (Betty) Densmore; and sisters, Goldie (Earl) Garrison, AnnaBelle (Norris) Reynolds and Helen (Harry) Barton.
Funeral services for Russell were held on Wednesday, November 4, 2020 at Vickers Springport Funeral Home in Springport with Reverent Bill Tripp officiating. Burial followed the service at Springport Cemetery. Honored pallbearers were Steve Eddy, Dave Eddy, Ron Densmore, Richard Yahnka, Ethan Eddy and Shawn McCall, and honorary pallbearers were Curt Ainsworth, Terry Hiither and Rustie Hiither. Arrangements entrusted to Vickers Springport Funeral Home, 121 Pearl Street P.O. Box 235, Springport, MI 49284, (517)857-4848.
Donald L. Thompson, Sr.
Donald Lee Thompson, Sr., of Vermontville, died on Sunday, November 1, 2020. Donald, 85, was born October 5, 1935, in Lansing, Mich., the son of Palmer and Martha (Everingham) Thompson. On December 4, 1954, Donald married his sweetheart, Rose Marie Hummel and together spent the next 55 years. He worked 32 years as a welder for Fisher Body until his retirement in 1983. Donald was an avid outdoorsman.
Donald is survived by his children, Alicia (Gareth) Tyler of Olivet, Trese (Rick) Paisley of Bellevue, Rose “Rea” Kirby of Vermontville, Sue (Kenneth) Cowell of Vermontville, Donald “Bud” (Ursula) Thompson, Jr. of Vermontville; many grandchildren; special companion, Deb Rogers of Battle Creek; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his loving wife, Rose Marie; and grandson, Donald Thompson III.
Funeral services were held on Friday, November 6, 2020 at 2 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. Visitation was held for two hours prior to the service, with mask, group capacity, and distancing guidelines practiced.
If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to The Maple Valley Scholarship Fund. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Donald on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Donna J. Tirrell
Donna Jeanne (Lovell) Tirrell was born on April 25, 1934 in Lake Odessa, Mich. to Gordon and Margarette Lovell, and died at age 86 on October 30, 2020 at home with Don at her side. Donna Jeanne graduated from Vermontville High School in 1952 and went on to Lansing Business Institute. After graduation, she went to work at Oldsmobile as an executive secretary until she married Don on November 7, 1954, when she became a farm wife. Over the years, she raised three children and kept their home in order while Don worked the fields. Donna Jeanne was involved in Church Circle at Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church and for several years was the wedding reception planner, meeting with the brides to help plan their receptions. She was involved with I-Go-You-Go club, Farm Bureau, worked at Smith’s Men’s Wear, volunteered at Hayes Green Beach Hospital and was the Carmel Township treasurer for 12 years. She and Don enjoyed spending time at Indian River, Mich., and enjoyed sitting on the dock watching the boats. They enjoyed spending a few weeks in the winter at Ft. Walton Beach, Florida. Donna Jeanne was also known to make cookies for the neighborhood kids who played ball in her yard.
Donna Jeanne is survived by her husband of 65 years, Don; children, Vickie (Greg) Shaver of Charlotte, Bill Tirrell of Roscommon, and Tom (Deanna) Tirrell of Tulsa, Okla. Also surviving are 7 grandchildren, Jamie (Travis) Reed of LaGrange Park, IL, Dan (Jill) Shaver of Charlotte, Chad (Stacy) Weldon of Grand Ledge, Megghan (Niki) Ravan of Hastings, Don (Caitlin) Tirrell of Eaton Rapids, Alex (Sarah) Tirrell of Tulsa, Okla. and Maggie Tirrell of Overland Park, Kans.; 10 great-grandchildren along with cousins, nieces and nephews; and special friends Pat and Bub Briggs. She was preceded in death by her brother, Kendall in May of 2020.
Funeral services were on Wednesday, November 4, 2020 at the family farm in Charlotte with Pastor Jack Conklin officiating.
If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Eaton Community Palliative Care or Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Donna on her Tribute Page at prayfuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Gary F. Fassett
Gary Floyd Fassett, 83, died on Friday, October 23, 2020 at Bel Aire Senior Living, in American Fork, Utah. He was born on June 9, 1937 in Charlotte, Mich. He got an early start in business, selling apples and Cloverine salve door to door, and later ran the largest paper route in town, along with his brother.
After his junior year in high school Gary headed West and worked on a ranch in Wyoming. He finally returned to Michigan a few weeks after the start of his senior year, hauling a string of horses. By the time he graduated from Charlotte High School in 1955 he already owned property. He went to carpentry school, and hitchhiked to work at a car factory in Lansing. He married his first wife, Sally Trumble, in 1959, however, their marriage was brief. Gary built a riding stable in Yankee Springs, Michigan, cutting all the corral poles by hand while serving seven years in the Michigan National Guard. He married Gwendolyn Marcella Jardot in 1963, becoming an instant father to her three daughters. They added three more daughters to their family. Gary and Gwen owned and operated the Flying Horseshoe Western Store for many years, first in Middleville (Yankee Springs) and later in Hastings, selling saddles, tack, sporting goods, and guns. Gary grew up hunting and was proud to receive a lifetime membership to the National Rifle Association (NRA) from his father. He went on to bag big game trophies across North America and Africa. He won several shooting contests with his excellent marksmanship. The entrepreneur in him opened a museum with all of his trophies mounted for paying customers to view. In 1979 Gary and Gwen moved their family to Lincoln, Montana where he began guiding hunters professionally, making many trips into the Bob Marshall Wilderness. The family moved to Fairfield, Montana in November of that year, and that marriage later ended in 1983. Gary managed Sky Top Ranch in Clancy, Montana for ten years. He met his third wife, Penny Schilling Chriske in 1998 and they married in 2003. She brought her son, Brady, to the family and Gary proudly told people he had seven children. They lived mainly in Helena, Montana, but also in Ray, North Dakota before returning back home to Montana. This marriage ended in 2018. From 2017, Gary resided in Fairfield, Choteau, and Great Falls, Montana. He spent his final 53 days in Utah. Not one to be caged, he lasted 172 days in long-term care facilities. Throughout his life he enjoyed business, hunting, guns, golf, bowling, running, music, billiards, dancing, travel, and “shooting the breeze.” He was a loving father, world-class negotiator, humorous storyteller, loyal friend, and an incredibly hard worker. He had quite the agenda of things he still wanted to accomplish when he passed.
Gary is survived by his children: Cassandra Carter Fadness of Boulder, Montana, Camey Lee Boster of Hastings, Jody Fassett Kyburz of Pleasant Grove, Utah, Amy Fassett de la Bruere of Bettendorf, Iowa, Angie Fassett Swanson of Missoula, Mont., and Brady Chriske of Missoula, Mont. He is also survived by his recent loving wife, Penny Chriske Fassett of Helena, Montana and best friend, Jerry Haan, of Kent City, Mich. There is a host of other dear family members and friends in his cheering section. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Esther Doty Fassett; brother, Gaylord Fassett; sister,Marilyn Fassett Charboneau; former spouses, Sally Trumble and Gwendolyn Jardot Fassett; and daughter, CatheyLee Bennett.
Graveside service will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2020 at 11:30 a.m. at Sunset Hills Cemetery in Fairfield, Mont., with masks and other social distancing protocols. Gary would be thrilled if you choose to donate to the National Rifle Association. The family sincerely thanks the fine people of Teton County, Mont. for looking after their father, as neighborly folks do, and serving him in any capacity.
Gary has been well cared for by Gorder-Jensen Funeral Home of Choteau, Mont.
Darwin L. Maurer
Darwin Lee Maurer, affectionately known as “Gabby” because he had the gift of gab, died October 28, 2020 in Bellevue, Mich. at the age of 75. He was born in Coldwater, Mich. on August 25, 1945 to Clyde and Lena (Houck) Maurer. Known for his gift of entertaining others, Dar loved to make people laugh and was often the life of the party. He was a master of the “pull my finger” trick, as well as telling great stories. Dar cared deeply about his friends and family. He had a big heart and would do anything to help others.
During his working career, he held various jobs at fairs and other venues, working with stage and sports audio equipment. His favorite job that he loved to tell stories about was the photo finish job and working as a sound tech. Also an avid sportsman, Dar enjoyed hunting, fishing on the pier at Frankfurt, and being an “armchair” athlete for many different sports on TV.
Darwin is survived by his daughters, Kristen (Kenneth) VanDalsen, Shannon (Israel) Hansen, and Sara (Vincent) Shepherd; six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sister, Alice Dean; former wives, Bonnie Ferazzi and Joy Maurer; as well as good friends Ray and Crystal. He was predeceased by his sister, Francis Bressler; and his parents.
If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Make-A-Wish Foundation. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Darwin on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Robert B. Sinko
Robert Bernard Sinko of Vermontville, a prankster who loved to make people laugh, died November 4, 2020 at the age of 89. Born in Johnstown, Pa., to John and Mary (Galash) Sinko on August 31, 1931, Robert grew up in a home full of love and children, 11 children in total. After graduating from Alma High School, he married Rosalie Ann Gryble on October 23, 1954 in Lansing, and they started a family of their own, based in faith, love, honesty, and hard work. Robert was a Material Handler at General Motors for 30 years, and then worked ten years at St. Mary Catholic Church taking care of the facility and he truly enjoyed his time there. Over the years Robert was a Cub Scout Leader at St. Therese in Lansing, a member of St. Mary Men’s Club, he helped out at Resurrection Football and Basketball games, enjoyed sports of all kinds, and he took a lot of pride in caring for his lawn (his wife lovingly calls him an obsessive mower).
Robert is survived by his wife of 66 years, Rosalie; children Robert (Linda) Sinko, Mark (Sherry) Sinko, Randi Sinko, Karen (Kris) Fase, and Kathy Sinko-Mills; 11 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; several siblings; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and several siblings.
Friends are encouraged to support Robert’s family. Funeral Mass was celebrated on Friday, November 6, 2020 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte with Rev. Father Dwight Ezop officiating. Visitation was one hour prior to the service, 10-11 a.m. at the church. Interment followed at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Lansing. Mask, group capacity, and distancing guidelines will be practiced.
If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Capital Area Humane Society. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Robert on his Tribute Page at PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Edna Mae Spaulding, 87, of Bellevue, died on October 21, 2020 at Bronson Battle Creek Hospital in Battle Creek.
Edna was born on December 27, 1932 in Bellevue to J.C. and Lucy (Hamilton) Olmstead. She attended Bellevue Schools. In 1948, she Edna M. Spaulding married Robert Spaulding in Bellevue. He preceded her in death in 1992.
Edna worked for Church’s Grocery Store for many years. She would continue to work for Feldpausch Food Center in Bellevue, and she retired in 1974. While working, she would still find time to help her husband on the farm with milking cows and other chores. Edna was an active member of the Bellevue Frist Baptist Church. She was a familiar sight in the church kitchen, and her crafty skills were seen at church with the cross in the pocket craft. Edna also was a member of the Marshall Moose Lodge where she enjoyed going to the dances. She loved spending time with her family especially spending time with her grandchildren.
She is survived by her children Larry Spaulding, Jean (Jay) Thorndyke; son-in-law Ron Clark; seven grandchildren; sever-al great-grandchildren; siblings, Alice Palatas, Ilene McDonald, Sally McDermid, Sue Wing. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; daughter Linda Clark, siblings; Evert Olmstead, Elizabeth Simons, and Helen Jenkins.
Family gathered with friends on Monday October 26 at the Bellevue First Baptist Church with a memorial service at 11 a.m. with Pastor Don Francis officiating. A private burial will take place at the Bellevue Riverside Cemetery at a later date.
Memorial contributions are requested to the Bellevue First Baptist Church. Memorials may be mailed to Kempf Funeral Home PO Box 519 Marshall MI 49068 for delivery to charity. Leave a personal message for the family and sign the online guestbook at kempfuneralhome.com.
Margaret Lucille Bishop, 100, of Bellevue, Michigan passed away on Sunday, October 25, 2020 at Sensations Memory Care in Charlotte, Michigan. Margaret was born on February 28, 1920 in Lansing, Michigan to William and Lottie (Groh) Gee. She was a 1938 graduate of Lansing Everett High School and graduated in 1939 from Cosmetology College. After her marriage to Earl L. on November 9, 1945, together they bought and operated a dairy farm in the Bellevue area in 1947. Margaret went to work in the pack-aging department at Kellogg Cereal Company in 1970, retiring in 1982. Margaret was a longtime member of Bellevue First Baptist Church, life member of Charlotte VFW Post #2406, life member of the Charlotte Senior Center and a member of the Bellevue Historical Society. She enjoyed playing cards and loved being with her family, especially her grandchildren.
Margaret is survived by her children, Duane (Marilyn) Bishop of Bellevue, Michigan and Dean W. (Wanda) Bishop of Dover, Florida; her son-in-law, Steven Whitaker of Bellevue, Michigan; her grandchildren, Scotty Mathis, Joseph Bishop, Earl Bishop, Jason Whitaker, Treasa Lindsey, Travis Whitaker, Nick Whitaker, Gregory Bishop and Ashley Bishop. Margaret is also survived by 16 great grandchildren and two great great grand-children. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Earl L., and her daughter, Diane Whitaker.
Visitation will take place on Sunday, November 1, 2020 from 3 – 5 p.m. at Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 205 N. Elizabeth Street, Bellevue, Michigan 49021. A funeral service to celebrate Margaret’s life will be held on Monday, November 2, 2020 at 11 a.m. with visitation starting at 10 a.m. at Bellevue First Baptist Church in Bellevue, Michigan, with Pastor Don Francis officiating. Interment will take place at Riverside Cemetery in Bellevue, Michigan.
Memorials contributions are requested to Bellevue First Baptist Church.
Please visit kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guestbook or to leave the family condolences.
William Robert Bursley, of Eaton Rapids, Mich. passed away on October 27, 2020 at the age of 92. Bill was born in Chester Township, Mich. the sixth of ten children born to Bert and Vevia (Satterly) Bursley. He honorably served in the United States Navy during WWII. Bill worked as an engineer for Oldsmobile from 1948 until his retirement in 1998. He enjoyed fishing, William R. Bursley bowling, playing pool, woodworking and hunting in his younger years.
Bill is preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Beatrice Fuller, Raymond Bursley, Bertie Steward, Donald Bursley, Maxine Fuguer, Betty Holland, Annabel Sheren and Ruth Olney.
Surviving are his wife of 58 years, Judy Bursley; daughters, Vevia (John) Beaulieu, Robin (Donald) Freeman; son, William “Todd” (Melissa) Bursley; grandchildren, Sara (Dustin) Bartel, Emily, Nicholas and Evan Freeman, John (Janelle) Jones, James (Robin) Jones, Jaron (Susanna) Jones; great grandchildren, Alexander and Jocelyn Bartel, Kristopher, Justin, Aaron, Rachael and Logan Jones; Desiree Sanguedolce, Quinton Thompson, Reece Jones; great great grandchildren, Easton Jones and Tylar Thompson; sister, Mable Olney and numerous nieces and nephews.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 31, 2020 at Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids chapel with visitation on Friday from 2 – 4 p.m. The family would like to give a special thanks to the staff at Sensations Memory Care in Charlotte for their exceptional care. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of Bill. To share memories or condolences please visit SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Jack Richard Shimmin of Grand Ledge, Mich. and formerly of Eaton Rapids, Mich. passed away on October 21, 2020 at the age of 87. Jack was born on May 22, 1933 in Lansing, Mich. the son of Glyn and Florence (Gunn) Shimmin. He graduated from Eaton Rapids High School Jack R. Shimmin class of 1951 and went on to attend Ferris State University where he received a Doctor of Pharmacy. He proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War. Jack was the owner of Shimmin Pharmacy in Eaton Rapids from 1960-1975. Upon selling his business he subcontracted for many pharmacies in the area before working at Pleasant Grove Pharmacy in Lansing. Jack enjoyed photography and building and flying radio operated airplanes. He was a passionate Harley Davidson Motorcyclist and a member of the Mid-Michigan M.C. Club and a member of the ROMEOS lunch Club. He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Carol (Cosper) Shimmin; and step-daughter, Cathy Guilford. Surviving are his daughters, Sandra (Brion) Pearson, Janice Shimmin-Mason; son, Richard (Juliann) Shimmin; step-son, Tim (Jane) Cosper; son-in-law, Greg Guilford; grandchildren, Laura (Travis) Sportel, Mat-thew (Katelyn) Pearson, Ian (Emily) Mason, Everett (Megan) Mason, Alan Shimmin (Natalie), Christopher (Katie) Shimmin, Andrew Shimmin, Mariah Cosper; great grandchildren, Alexis Pearson, Evelyn and Logan Sportel, Adalyn and Kahle Mason, Larry Rogers; sister, Suzanne Litchfield; his love and friend, Carolyn Gafner and numerous extended family. A private family funeral will be held. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Southside Community Kitchen or Meals on Wheels in memory of Jack. To share memories, condolences or to view the funeral service please visit SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.