Obituaries
Garth Smith
Garth Michael Smith, age 81, of Charlotte, entered into the arms of his Savior on Tuesday, June 21, 2022. He was born August 22, 1940, in Lansing, the son of Robert and Gertrude (Ripley) Smith. Garth graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1958. Soon after graduation he proudly enlisted in the United States Navy and faithfully served his country. Garth was a member of the IBEW for over 50 years and worked as an electrician the majority of his life. He was also the proud owner of S&S Trucking for many years. Garth loved handing out his “Retired and Loving It” ink pens to everyone he came in contact with. In his sparetime he enjoyed fishing, MSU Hockey, and spending time at his home in Florida. Garth was a member of the American Legion Post 42, VFW Post 2406, Eagles Aerie #3552, and Moose Lodge 2565, where he made his daily rounds to spend time with his countless friends. Garth had many pets throughout his life but was especially fond of his current dogs, Bunny and Bernie.
Garth is survived by his children, Terry Smith of Charlotte, Winnie (Shane) Miller of Charlotte, Candy Ewing of Vermontville; five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren; siblings, Karen (Larry) Feldpausch, Tim (Linda) Smith of Charlotte, and Eunice Smith of Charlotte.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son-in-law, Matt Ewing; and Margaret Elbrink.
A celebration of Garth’s life will be held on Saturday, August 13, 2022 at 12 p.m. at the American Legion Post 42, 1000 W. Lawrence Hwy., Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Garth’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.
Marvin Sewar
Marvin Allen “Sonny” Sewar, 84 of Charlotte, MI, a proud GM and never Ford guy, died June 21, 2022. Sonny was born October 31, 1937 in Batavia, NY to William and Anna (Lodica) Sewar, and was destined to be in the military with a long family heritage of proud service to our country. After high school, he enlisted in the Air Force in June of 1955 and served at multiple bases during his 20 years of active duty until his retirement on December 31, 1975. He met his future wife, Barbara, at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico, and they were married in 1959. In their 63 years of marriage, they had many adventures together traveling with the Air Force and raising a family. Being a military man meant everything to Sonny. He was a stern but very loving father and grandfather who was very proud of those who followed his path in serving our country, and equally as proud of those who chose other professions.
After retiring from the Air Force, Sonny went to work at General Motors for 15 years. When his family showed up at his house in anything other than a Chevy, he apologized to the neighbors and made everyone laugh. Children always loved Sonny, he was known as a kid magnet and baby whisperer in his family. Some of his favorite activities included trips to the casino, cruising around the state in the RV, riding his motorcycle, bowling, taking walks, watching true crime TV shows, and playing video games on his Nintendo, Saga, Gameboy, and most recently his tablet.
Marvin “Sonny” is survived by his wife of 63 years, Barbara; son, Michael Sewar; daughters, Debra (Gary Sr.) Davis and Sandra Mandeville; six grandchildren, Katherine (Frank) Burcar, Gary Michael Davis Jr., Daniel (Samantha) Davis, Laura (Davi) Salas, Bryan Mandeville, and Gerard (Kayla) Mandeville; 11 great-grandchildren; sisters, Katherine Briolet and Diana Raymor; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his daughter, Christina Sewar; sister, Geri Atkinson and his parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Marvin’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation and memorial services were on Sunday, June 26. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Ronald McDonald House Charities. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Cynthia Emenhiser
Cynthia “Cindy” Ruth Emenhiser, a caring and loving wife, mother, and friend, died on Thursday, June 23, 2022. Cindy 65, of Charlotte, was born on October 28, 1956, in Battle Creek, MI, the daughter of Don Davis and Wilda and Ferron Hartshorn. Most recently Cindy worked as a manager of a gas station before an injury led her to retirement. In 1995 Cindy married the love of her life Henry “Hank” Emenhiser. Cindy and Hank enjoyed camping and fishing around the state. She loved volunteering her time at the Washington Elementary School. Most importantly Cindy devoted her life to the Lord. She was a Youth Group and Worship Leader at First Assembly of God Church in Olivet and most recently a member of New Hope Community Church in Charlotte.
Cindy is survived by her loving husband, Hank Emenhiser; daughter, Sarah Emenhiser; brother, Christopher Davis; and numerous extended family members. She was predeceased by her parents, Don Davis, and Wilda and Ferron Hartshorn.
Friends are encouraged to support Cindy’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, July 6, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home with Pastor Randy Royston officiating. Visitation will be held just prior to the service from 10-11:00 a.m. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to The New Hope Community Church. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Sharon Ruthruff
Sharon Harriett Ruthruff, age 88, from Charlotte passed away on June 21, 2022. Arrangements are being handled by Pray Funeral Home.
Christopher Bashaw
Christopher Robert Bashaw, age 50, of Charlotte passed away on June 24, 2022. Arrangements are being handled by Pray Funeral Home.