Obituaries
Margaret J. Spitzer
Margaret Joan Spitzer, age 87, of Vermontville, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, July 21, 2020, surrounded by those she loved. Joan was born February 26, 1933, in Nashville, MI the daughter of Marcus and Ellen (Day) Shapley. She attended Nashville High School. On January 21, 1950, Joan married Richard Spitzer in Angola, Indiana. Joan was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She adored her family and always saw to it that she did her utmost to provide a loving home for them. Joan enjoyed spending time working in her flower and vegetable gardens and traveling throughout the US. She and Dick also enjoyed spending time at their family cabin in Gulliver and at their winter home in Dunedin, Florida.
She is survived by her daughter, Cindy (Allan) Harvath of Charlotte; son, Richard (Teresa) Spitzer of Charlotte, 9 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; and sisters-in-law: Betty Shapley and Kathy Shapley.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband and soulmate of 70 years, Dick; brothers: Bob Shapley, Don Shapley, and Jim Shapley.
A graveside service will be held on Friday, July 24, 2020, at 1 P.M. at the Kalamo Hillside Cemetery with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating.
Those desiring, may make contributions in Margaret’s memory to the West Carmel Congregational Church.
To view Margaret’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Judy M. Dahlgren
Juadean “Judy” M. Dahlgren, age 80 — a women full of compassion for others and endless love for her family — died peacefully on Monday, July 20, 2020, with family by her side at home on the farm in Potterville. Judy was born August 31, 1939, in Lansing, the daughter of Edward and Evelyn (O’Dell) West. She graduated from Charlotte High School in 1957 and on November 9 of the same year married Richard Dahlgren and they settled into family life on the Dahlgren farm in Potterville. She worked 21 years as a well-known server at the Pour House Restaurant in Windsor Twp., as well as laboring alongside her husband on the farm.
Judy loved sitting on the porch at the house with her family and friends, enjoying the flowers. Throughout the years, her family usually included several kids from the community keen on spending time outdoors around the farm with the Dahlgren children. Additionally, she cared for her “little people,” the many elderly she regularly checked in on and supported. Her love for people was rivaled only by her love of animals. She lived a life full of attention to the needs of others, and devotion to her children and grandchildren. Her hard work only allowed for three days of vacation each year, which she and Richard always spent enjoying Mackinac Island. Many will remember Judy’s wisdom and love, and her role as protector and nurturer to her large family and friends.
Judy is survived by her children, Richard (Pam Jones) Dahlgren II, Kim (Rebecca) Dahlgren, Cynthia (Scott) Lucas, and John (Joellen Wright) Dahlgren; 10 grandchildren, Danielle Dahlgren, Audrey Dahlgren, Avery Dahlgren, Dalton Wertz, Kyle Lucas, Rachel (Daryle) McMaster, Corey Lucas, Preston (Missy) Dahlgren, Terra (Larry) Coffman, and Jerrid (Sabrina) Dahlgren; 12 great-grandchildren; sister, Jane West; sister-in-law, Cathy West; and her nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Richard D. Dahlgren in 2017; her parents; brothers, Jim West and Jerry West; sister-in-law, Donna West; and infant granddaughter, Phoebie Dahlgren.
A private family gathering will take place on the farm. The family also wishes to especially thank Chelsea from Elara Caring Hospice for her compassionate care of Judy. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Judy on her Tribute Page at prayfuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Jane L. Merrifield-Gidner
Jane Leigh Merrifield-Gidner, age 73, of Charlotte, died peacefully on Saturday, July 18, 2020 at her home surrounded by family. She was born as Janet Roberta Williams on May 29, 1947 in Charlotte, the child of Jacob and Maxine Williams. At the age of four, she and her brother, Richard, were adopted by John Rex and Fanny Minnetta (Dennis) Gidner, and her name changed to Jane Leigh Gidner. The Gidner’s operated a working farm, and Jane grew up working hard with her family, and developed a deep respect for the 4H program. She attended Potterville High Schools until rezoning moved her to Charlotte Schools, where she graduated in 1966. In her younger years, before children, she worked as a certified nurse’s aide, and in fact cared for her parents for many years. Once her children arrived, she took an active role with their studies and interests, including volunteering with the 4H program and Campfire. In her spare time, she loved traveling and a good hot tub. Many will remember her for her 18 years at McDonald’s in Potterville, where she served as the lobby lady and enjoyed greeting and visiting with her many friends in the community. She was a member of two chapters of the Red Hat Society, and also enjoyed following the Senior Center dancing circuit.
Since a child, Jane lived a deeply Faith-filled life and was a member of New Hope Community Church in Charlotte. Above all, she loved her family and her children and grandchildren. In fact, after her debilitating stroke, she spent the last 18 months of her life under the care of her daughter, Martha, at the family home lovingly referred to as the commune. She also received constant support from her countless dear friends and family.
Jane is survived by her children, Martha (Terry) Bryant, John Merrifield, Jack (Benita) Merrifield; grandchildren, Steven Bryant, Michael Bryant, Hunter Merrifield, Angel Merrifield, Arianna Beedy, and their mother, Tara Ankney; her foster children, Tara Siler, Sean Brady, and Troy Brady; siblings, William, Susan, Mary, Marsha, Marvin, Cheryl, and Jake; many nieces and nephews; and several very dear friends. She was predeceased by her first love and spouse of 22 years, Phillip Merrifield; her grandson, Joshua Bryant; her birth and adopted parents; and her siblings, Richard, Michael, John, Geri, Judy, and James.
A funeral service took place on Wednesday, July 22, 2020 with Pastors Victor Williams and Chuck Jenson officiating. Interment was at Maple Hill Cemetery. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Ronald McDonald House. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Jane on her Tribute Page at prayfuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Matthew Whitehouse
Matthew Whitehouse, age 52, of Vermontville, passed away Saturday, July 18, 2020. The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.
Sandra J. Smith
Sandra Jean Smith, age 75 of Charlotte — a lady who enjoyed the simple things in life — died July 21, 2020. Sandra was born May 4, 1945 in Yankton, South Dakota to Milton and Pearl (Rich) Johnson. She became a Registered Nurse, working at St. Lawrence Hospital in Lansing as an RN in the Intensive Care Unit and The Emergency Department. She was proud of her work and her ability to start even the most difficult of IV’s. The kind of person that was always there when you need her, Sandra was very proud of her family. In her spare time she enjoyed crocheting, knitting, reading and going to Las Vegas on vacation.
Sandra is survived by her daughters, Traci (Scott) Osman, Michelle Smith, and Nicole Smith; grandchildren, Megan and Mackenzie; brother, Richard Johnson; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents.
If desired the family requests donations to Eaton Community Palliative Care or the Alzheimer’s Association. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Sandra on her Tribute Page at prayfuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
George D. Guilford
George David Guilford of Eaton Rapids passed away after a short battle with cancer, July 21, 2020 at the age of 76. George was born in Marshall, MI, November 2, 1943, the son of James and Viola (Stuck) Guilford. He was a 1964 graduate of Marshall High School. George worked for Fisher Body for 30 years before retiring in 1995. He was a member of UAW #602, Robbins United Methodist Church, and the Charlotte and Eaton Rapids Senior Centers. For many years, George and his wife, Elizabeth, enjoyed wintering in Weslaco, TX, and enjoyed working in his manicured yard, his vegetable garden, hosting euchre parties and playing cards.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Elizabeth Guilford; daughters, Vicki (Mark) Sheffield of Eaton Rapids, Judy (Steven) Sharpe of Eaton Rapids; grandchildren, Logan (Cassidy) Sheffield of WA, Parker Sheffield of WA, Morgan and Marissa Sharpe of Eaton Rapids; brother, Lorence “Dick” Guilford of FL; and his beloved cat, Griffin. George was preceded in death by his parents and 13 siblings.
Funeral services were scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday, July 24, 2020 at Robbins United Methodist Church, 6419 Bunker Rd. Eaton Rapids, MI 48827 with Pastor Peggy Katzmark officiating. Visitation will take place at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel Thursday from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm . Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Jean Bradford Kline Senior Center. Please visit our website to place online condolences, www.millsfuneral.com.
Amanda M. Esser
Amanda Marie Esser, age 24 of Potterville — a fun-loving young lady with a heart of gold — passed away unexpectedly July 9, 2020. Amanda was born March 22, 1996 in Baltimore to Paul and Alisia (Marzola) Esser. She had a big smile and a laugh that would light up the room. Amanda worked as a nursing aide and loved taking care of the elderly. She loved music, dancing and time fishing with her boys. She had a very genuine heart and would do anything to help others, but especially doted on her boys with everything she did.
Amanda leaves behind her beloved boys, Lucca and Levi Mendez; parents, Alisia, Paul and Tonyau; sisters, Stephanie Nieberlein, Casey (Justin) Partington, and Allison (Bobby Hubbel) Esser; brother, Jon Esser; several nieces and nephews; grandmother, Sharon Marzola; and Lucca and Levi’s father Luis Mendez. Amanda was welcomed home by her grandmother, Carolyn F. Cross; grandfather, Anthony Marzola; and her great-grandmother, Selma Kallenberger.
The family received visitors at the Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte on Sunday, July 12, 2020.
Friends and family are encouraged to support Amanda’s family by sharing memories on her tribute page at prayfuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Gary L. Strank
Gary Lee Strank, age 73, died on Saturday, March 7, 2020 in Coralville, Iowa. He was preceded in death by his wife Carol M. Strank, age 62, who died Sunday, Jan. 18, 2009 in Iowa City, Iowa. Gary and Carol were both raised in Eaton Rapids. Both will be laid to rest at Plains Cemetery in Eaton Rapids with a short service on Saturday, July 18 at 2 p.m.
Robert A. Oring
Robert A. Oring
Surrounded by his loving family, Robert Alan Oring, age 79, of Eaton Rapids — devoted, loving husband, dad and grandpa — peacefully went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, July 13, 2020, after enduring a battle with cancer for over 10 years, with his true “Michigan Wolverines” spirit and fierceness. Bob loved God, family and his fellow man, which was evident through the influence he had in their lives and the impact he had on many others throughout his life and career. Bob was born in Bronx, NY in 1940 to Helen Oring (Greenhut) and Irving Oring, and later grew up in Greenbelt, MD. Bob graduated from High Point High School (Beltsville, MD) and received two degrees in exercise physiology, with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland and a master’s degree from the University of Toledo. He went on to complete his doctoral degree in health education at the University of Michigan in 1975. Bob was a member of Phi Kappa Tau social fraternity and Phi Epsilon Kappa physical education and health honor society.
Bob began his extensive teaching and coaching career in Anne Arundel County, MD, where he taught for two years. From there, he moved to Jackson and began 33 years of teaching at Jackson Community College (1966-1998). Bob also coached swimming, baseball, hockey, track and cross country for many years, mostly at Jackson Community College and East Jackson High School. Among the thousands of students he taught and hundreds of incredible athletes he coached were three NCAA All-Americans, 13 NJCAA All-Americans, one national champion (swimming), and two national runners up (cross country). Ten of his former athletes became high school coaches, and three former runners became National Coaches of the Year. All of his former athletes and students held a special place in his heart. In addition to coaching, Bob held other volunteer positions for youth sports including league director and Little League President for many years. He was also a water safety instructor trainer for the American Red Cross for several years.
Bob’s passion for helping others through teaching, coaching, community service, and working with youth eventually led him to cross paths with his wife, Marcia, at JCC, and that became the beginning of a long and happy loving marriage. Bob was the bravest, most endearing and sacrificial man in the world, as he knew a commitment to Marcia meant a commitment to her five children as well. Bob joined Marcia in marriage and immediately adopted her five young children, merging his three children with her five, into one loving family. Words cannot adequately describe his greatness, blessing, love, leadership, and strength Bob provided to the family. Bob provided many things to our family, big and small, as he had the biggest heart ever. Bob was so thankful to God and felt very blessed and proud to have seen his children achieve great educational, spiritual, career, and family goals.
Bob loved being outdoors, loved nature, loved his flower gardens, and loved to travel with his wifey, Marcia and the family. Bob and Marcia were blessed to have traveled on over 30 cruises together and have an abundant group of special friends from all of their travels. Bob and Marcia especially enjoyed a great group of winning trivia pals on these cruises, thanks to Bob’s vast array of what he called “worthless knowledge.” Aruba is also a second home to the Orings and Bob and Marcia loved their Aruban family. An avid golfer, Bob would be found in his spare time constantly improving his swing and score, multiple times per week with his Golfing Buddies, at his favorite golf course, Bonnie View, in Eaton Rapids, near his home where he had been a member for many years. Bob would pause his daily golf outings to stop and admire the beauty of God’s creation around him. Bob was passionate about all University of Michigan sports and was known by everyone who knew him as one of the University’s biggest fans. Bob always said he was easy to shop for as most of his wardrobe was maize and blue.
Last but not least; Bob really enjoyed dining out and eating great food. He was a perfect match for Marcia, who just happens to be a great cook and baker. Some of her friends tease calling her Betty Crocker. Marcia made everything home-cooked from scratch, and constantly was cooking and baking for him in their home. Bob was like a child at Christmas when it came to enjoying all the freshly prepared treats. He couldn’t wait to get back home each day to see what surprises he would have waiting and what aroma he would detect walking back in the door from town or a golf game. Among his favorites were sausage gravy and biscuits, turkey with lots of stuffing and mashed potatoes and gravy, roast beef, homemade bread, homemade rolls, lots of spaghetti, lasagna, homemade macaroni and cheese (this was a favorite), anything he could grill, beef stroganoff, carrot cake loaded with homemade cream cheese frosting and pecans, homemade chocolate cake with thick frosting, spinach pie, every type of cookie, cashew brittle, every type of homemade soup, apple/rhubarb/custard/pumpkin pie, pastries, pecan cinnamon rolls, pecan tarts, various homemade candies, and treats, Well actually, Bob loved everything foodwise, except olives, so he was very easy to please, as long as it was homemade (which was pretty often!). Bob and Marcia had lots of laughs and love in their home around the dinner table.
Bob is dearly loved and survived by his wife, Marcia Anderson Oring of Eaton Rapids, MI; eight children: Andy (Mariann) Oring, Larry (Sherrie) Oring Anderson, Chadwick (Sarah) Oring Anderson, Darin (Cassie) Oring, Kady Jo (Andrew) Hofer, Brady (Elizabeth) Oring, Scott (Leslie) Oring, and Bobby (Lynn) Oring, as well as Bob’s 14 adoring grandchildren: Addison, Jace, Sophie, Jaeda, Madelyn, Ruby, Phoebe, Jackson, Parker, Micah, Savannah, Olivia, Isaac, and Lilah Jo. Also surviving are Bob’s brothers: Lewis (Kay) Oring of Eagle Lake, CA and Stuart (Alena) Oring of Owings, MD and cousin Russell (CA). In addition, Bob is survived by loving in-laws, nieces, and a host of wonderful supportive friends. Bob was preceded in death by his parents.
The family would like to offer our most sincere appreciation for the compassionate and amazing care of Oncologist Dr. Daniel Isaac with his caring nurses and staff at the MSU Breslin Cancer Center (Go Blue!).
Visitation will be held on Friday, July 17th from 3-7pm at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, July 18th at 11 a.m. at Skinner Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery.
For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Bonnie View Golf Course to set up a memorial fund for underprivileged youth golfers in memory of Robert Oring. To share memories or condolences visit SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Robert L. Getter
Robert Lee Getter, age 85 — a family man, outlaw, snappy dresser, ladies’ man, and Eaton Rapids resident — passed away peacefully in the comfort of his own home on July 12, 2020. This was in stark contrast to the wild, loud and often mildly inappropriate way he lived his life. Robert worked for Fisher Body for over 37 years before retiring in 1991. He was known for being smart, creative, accepting, kind, loving, unintentionally hilarious and generous. Despite his dirty, and often stinky, outward appearance, Robert rightfully believed all the ladies wanted him. This included, but was not limited to, his doctors, meal delivery ladies, nurses, and most recently his 47-year-old caretaker. He knew they all loved his sexy legs and his dapper appearance. Perhaps Robert’s dearest legacy is how deeply he loved his kids, making each of them feel like they were the favorite. But, to be completely honest, it was always Laura (the author of this obituary) who was the true favorite. No matter the task, Robert loved to, and even insisted on helping. He would give the shirt off his back if it would make someone’s life better. Robert always looked for ways to improve the lives of everyone he knew. It is not an exaggeration to say that 99.99% of the people that knew him, loved him. And then there is Beverly Crawford, the mother of his children, who refused to admit she was still secretly in love with him after all these years. Robert had a life-long love affair with any food he was not supposed to eat and loved sneaking snacks into the house. Much to the dismay of this author, he was a Spartan fan and loved to argue with the Michigan fans about why MSU fans are better (even though we all know that is not the case). Always full of wisdom, his favorite statement was “buy only what you need and not what you want.” Yet somehow his house is full of things he did not need. Robert enjoyed shopping for gadgets in hopes his family would want or need them and even treated it like a sport. And although Robert said consistently that he did not care for sweets, we’re told that manufacturers of ice cream and fancy chocolates are simply devastated by this loss. You will never find a more a beautiful soul as a father, friend, confidante. He will be deeply missed.
Robert was preceded in death by his sons, Robert Lee Getter Jr. and Rodney Lee Getter; siblings, Herby Getter, Harvey Getter, Donnie Getter, and Carol Dillin; father, Harold Lee Getter; and mother Bertha Elston. Robert is survived in legacy by daughter, Laura (Mike) DeLong; sons, Scott (Lisa) Getter, Ted (Nicky) Getter, sister, Doris Goddard; grandchildren, Joshua DeLong, Kyle DeLong, Leslie Getter, Jeffery Getter, Stephen Getter, Jennifer Bahmer, Krystin Hoag, Austin Harmon, Coty Harmon, Chase Getter, Kallie Getter; 19 great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews, and copious amounts of people who considered him to be their father/ uncle/ grandfather. A celebration of Robert’s life was scheduled to be held at Mill’s Funeral Home, Shelly Odell Chapel at 518 S. Main St. in Eaton Rapids on Friday, July 17, 2020 beginning at 11 a.m. Visitation hours were to be held beforehand starting at 10 a.m. in the same location. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Salvation Army. Visit millsfuneral.com to place online condolences.