Obituaries
James Frederick Adams
James Frederick Adams, age 51 of Grand Rapids, passed away Wednesday September 25, 2019 with his beloved wife Gloria by his side. Jim was born in 1967 in Jackson, MI, the first child of Sharon and Larry Adams of Charlotte, MI. Jim was loved by so many people and impacted many lives with his welcoming smile and ready laughter. His sense of humor was legendary, and carried him through a difficult illness. He was a loyal and generous friend to many. He had an international view of the world, which grew from his childhood in Brazil. Jim was an avid collector, and loved comics, the Hulk, his Jeeps, and of course his Legos. He will be lovingly missed by Gloria, his wife of 21 years; and his 14 year old daughter, Raquel (his “Peanut”); his parents, Sharon and Larry Adams; and sisters, Kate Buchanan and Sarah Adams; brothers-in-law; sisters-in-law; nieces and nephews; and friends all over the world. His family wishes to express special thanks to all of the nurses and staff of Blodgett Hospital, and especially the staff of 3D. They also want to thank Paul Grabiel, Bob Courtade, Jim Wisnewski and Diane Maion for their invaluable assistance and a special thanks also to the University of Michigan Hospital liver transplant team. Visitation will be Sunday, September 29, 2019 from 4-7 pm at Pederson Funeral Home, 127 N Monroe Street in Rockford with a Praying of the Rosary at 7pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 am on Monday, September 30, 2019 at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, 6390 Belmont Avenue NE, Belmont, MI 49306. Burial will take place in Saints Cyril and Methodius Church Cemetery in Wayland. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the educational fund for his daughter Raquel. Contributions can be directed to her mother, Gloria Adams. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home, or can be mailed to: 1149 Worcester Dr. NE Grand Rapids, MI, 49505.
Funeral Arrangements by: Pederson Funeral Home - Rockford, MI
Donald Robert Tyler
Donald R. Tyler, 73, of Grand Ledge died on Wednesday, September 25, 2019 at Eaton Community Palliative Care. Don was born on January 26, 1946 in Detroit, MI and was adopted on August 15, 1946 to Mallie and Donna Tyler.
Don graduated from Loy Norrix High School in 1964 and entered the U.S. Navy the same year where he took basic training at Great Lakes U.S. Naval Training Camp. Upon completion, Don served in Vietnam for 13 months as a medic. On September 22, 1973 he married Nancy (Harrison) Tyler in Kalamazoo, MI.
While living in Battle Creek, Don helped run the Little League football program. After moving to the Charlotte / Grand Ledge area, Don became involved with many Boy Scout activities with his son, Curtis. He and Derek frequently hunted together in Yankee Springs. Don enjoyed bowling, golfing and family vacations throughout the years. Don was an over the road truck driver and local truck driver for many years. He retired from Meijer transportation after 24 years of service.
Don is survived by his wife, Nancy, sons, Derek (Jeni) and Curtis, and two grandchildren, Cody and Abigail. Don is preceded in death by his parents. Don was interred at Fort Custer National Cemetery on October 3, 2019 with Full Military Funeral Honors.
Memorial Donations can be made to the Eaton Community Palliative Care; 2675 S. Cochran Rd.; Charlotte, MI 48813.
Funeral Arrangements by: Bachman Hebble Funeral Service
Jeremy D. Craft
Jeremy David Craft, 34 of Charlotte, a talented artist who was very kind and loving to everyone he met, died unexpectedly June 19, 2019 at his home. He was born March 30, 1985 in Charlotte, one of three children to Gerald E. and Trina L. (Schlee) Craft. He attended Stockbridge High School, and later graduated from Potterville High School in 2004. Jeremy had a big heart, always putting everyone else first. His artistic talent helped him win an art contest for creating a logo for Big Red, Pepsi-Bottling Company. Jeremy loved drawing, enjoyed listening to music and was a fan of Korn, playing video games, writing, reading his Bible, and especially doing what was right. He worked 9 ½ years at the City of Potterville, and one year at the school as general maintenance. Quiet and reserved, Jeremy loved his family dearly and was heartbroken when his older brother, Jacob, died unexpectedly in July of 2018.
Jeremy is survived by his parents, Gerald and Trina Craft; sister, Christine Craft; aunts, Wanda (James) Darrow, Tammy (Raymond) Poirier, Mary (Paul) Haase, Nancy (Brian) Sullivan, Judy (Phil) Twitchell; uncles, Dorian Schlee Jr., Vince (Kristine) Schlee, and Wayne (Steve) Schlee-Poirier; sister in-law, Sarah Craft; and many cousins.
He was predeceased by his brother, Jacob Eugene Craft; grandparents, Barbara and Dorian Schlee; and aunt, Theresa Ward.
If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Pray Funeral Home for final expenses.
Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Jeremy on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.
Rebecca S. Cain
Rebecca Sue (Fielder) Cain of Potterville, a steadfast, faithful, strong and loving woman, died June 12, 2019 at the age of 61. Rebecca was born April 14, 1958 in Lansing to Moten and Ruth (Carpenter) Fielder. After graduating as Salutatorian in 1976 from Potterville High School, Rebecca went on to work at the State of Michigan as a Department Technician in Financial Services, retiring in 2016. A love of quilting took Rebecca around the state to many quilt shops with her friends and mother-in-law, Gayle. She made an amazing game quilt for her grandchildren, as well as many crafty toys for them. A very humble and kind woman, she loved making things for others and not telling them whom it was from. Her reward was in knowing she was helping someone else. She taught Sunday School and Youth Group at Oneida Gospel Church in Grand Ledge. Rebecca also enjoyed reading historical fiction, cooking for her family, especially her famous tater-tot casserole. She loved watching the Detroit Tigers baseball and MSU Spartans (especially basketball).
Rebecca is survived by daughter, Jessicca (Kevin) Holland; son, Joseph Cain; daughter-in-law, Christina Moldovan; grandchildren, Erika and Rory Holland, Ryleigh and Zachary Cain, and Logan and Rachael Moldovan; sister, Meredith (Robert) Kaiser; brother, Gerald (Julie) Fielder; and mother-in-law and beloved friend, Gayle Cain.
She was preceded in death by her son, Jonathan Cain; her parents; and siblings, Bonnie Halbeisen and Daniel Fielder.
Funeral services were held Friday, June 21, 2019, at 1 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte.
Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Rebecca on her tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.
Cicelia Hicks
Cicelia Hicks, 66, of Bellevue, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday afternoon, June 16, 2019. She was born in Muskegon, Mich. on April 4, 1953, the daughter of Cecelia Lillie Young and graduated from Hastings High School. Cicelia owned and operated Pride & Joy Day Care in Bellevue for more than 18 years and previously had worked at United Steel & Wire.
Cicelia married the “Love of Her Life,” Clarence W. Hicks in Hastings on December 19, 1969; he survives. She is also survived by her children, Cecilia Hicks of Battle Creek, Dawn (Rodney) Fletcher of Nashville, and Shannon Hicks of Bellevue; seven grandchildren, Amanda Nichols (Eric Simpkins), Sharmen (Cody) Wallace, Austin Ludlow, Kyahsondra (Lucas) Brumm, Brandon Scare, Sahvanuh Fletcher (Caleb Jessup) and Masyn Hicks Shilling; 10 great-grandchildren, Oakley Wallace, Madison Raak, Weslee Raak, Paetyn Wallace, Axel Wallace, Collin Green, Jayce Brumm, Jayden Ludlow, Jordan Ludlow, Kiara Scholtz; and a great-grandson to be born any day, Gunner Brumm; a sister, Annamae Hicks; a brother, Phil Curtis; and her beloved dog “Gizmo.”
Cicelia was sadly preceded in death by her mother, Cecelia Curtis, and her brother-in-law, Calvin Hicks, Sr.
A true matriarch, family was everything to Cicelia and she loved entertaining her family at Christmas and every moment she could spend with them, especially her grandchildren. She was a member of the 4-H Mini Whinnies for many years, and also enjoyed her horses, camping, traveling up north, and gambling at the Casinos.
Funeral services to celebrate Cicelia’s life were held Wednesday, June 19, 2019 at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, Battle Creek. Interment followed at Hicks West Pennfield Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials directed to the family would be appreciated.
Personal messages for the family may be placed at farleyestesdowdle.com.
Gerald L. Johnson
Gerald Lewis Johnson of Olivet went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Thursday, June 13, 2019 at the age of 67. Jerry was born on May 6, 1952 in Belding, Mich., the son of Gerald and Patricia (Peacock) Johnson. He graduated from Gaylord High School and went on to receive an associate’s degree in the electrical trade. Jerry honorably served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. He worked for 28 years at General Motors in skilled trades as an electrician retiring in 2012. Jerry was a longtime member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Charlotte Post #3552 and the UAW Local 652. He was an avid gun enthusiast and outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping at Scalley Lake where he spent many summers. Jerry was also a talented artist and woodworker who would make furniture and stained glass for his family and friends. Above all Jerry was a dedicated husband, father and friend who will be lovingly remembered for his lighthearted personality and his great sense of humor.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Gerald Johnson and Patricia Olmstead; and his brother, Kenneth Johnson.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Daphne Johnson; children, Terri Hall (Bruce Dowding), Jennifer (Scott) Peregoy, Matthew Johnson, Ashley (Mike) Schroll, Brooke Johnson (Marlin Gloor), Charity (Kevin) Dalzell, Jennifer (Andrea) Hayeslip; 10 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sisters, Cindy Parr and Jillian Blair-Johnson.
Services were held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, June 18, 2019 at Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids Chapel.
For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Great Lakes Caring Hospice.
To share memories or condolences, please visit SkinnerFuenralHomes.com.
Steven R. Donley
Steven Rae Donley, 78, of Potterville, passed away Friday, June 14, 2019, at his home with his family by his side. He was born June 26, 1940 in Charlotte, the son of Otis and Nelda (Hawley) Donley. Steve graduated from Potterville High School in 1959. He went on to honorably serve his country in the United States Army. On December 14, 1966, he married Linda L. Mosier at the Methodist Parsonage in Potterville. Steve retired from General Motors after 30 years of service. He was a devoted family man who took great interest in his children and grandchildren. Steve’s favorite hobby was bowling and he loved every moment of it. He participated in many different leagues throughout the years at Char-Lanes in Charlotte and Royal Scot in Lansing.
Steve is survived by his wife of 52 years, Linda; children, Jennifer (David) Phillips of Dimondale, Jeffrey (Cheryl) Donley of Potterville, Jason Donley of Potterville; grandchildren, Josh (Shaina) Phillips, Lexie (Dan) Schafer, Nick Phillips, Tori Phillips, Lizzy Phillips, Tommy Phillips, Kristina Donley, Stasi Donley, Matt Donley; great-grandchildren, Damon Wonch, Mathis Phillips, Wyatt Phillips; and sister, Ann (Bruce) Robertson.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A memorial service will be held on July 14, 2019, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the American Legions Post 42 in Charlotte.
Those desiring may make contributions in Steve’s honor to Gift of Life Michigan, 3861 Research Park Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48108.
To view Steve’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.
Richard A. Smith
Richard (Rick) A. Smith, 74, of Hesperia, Mich., formerly of Bellevue, passed away unexpectedly Friday, June 7, 2019 at his home. He was born September 16, 1944 in Battle Creek, the son of Lyle and Fern (Kinsey) Smith. Rick graduated from Bellevue High School, class of 1964. He married the love of his life, Rebecca McCandless on July 8, 1966. He was employed with Union Pump in Battle Creek for 43 years, known as Dick Smith by his coworkers. He was the Union President of the IATC, (International Assoc. of Tool Craftsman) for many years before retiring at age 63 in 2008.
Rick loved the outdoors, animals, spending time with family and friends, and traveling. He enjoyed family trips to Alaska. The most recent trip to Alaska included a family wedding on Mount McKinley. He enjoyed camping at Sleeping Bear Dunes and spending time at their cottage in Hesperia. Just six years ago it became their permanent residence where neighbors became friends, and friends became family. In his younger years he enjoyed golfing, hunting, and fishing.
Richard is survived by his loving wife, Becky, of 53 years; children, Ginny (Mike) Durow, Jeff (Teresa) Smith; grandchildren, Ryan and Reese Durow; numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews and his Saint Huberts family. He was preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, Bruce, Robert, Myrna Avery, Carroll, and Alvetta Lea.
Funeral Services were held at Kempf Funeral & Cremation Service in Bellevue on Wednesday, June 12, 2019.
Rick says he really doesn’t need flowers and would prefer to help support local animals. Memorial donations in his name can be made to All Species Kinship, a nonprofit that cares about animals as much as Rick did. Checks can be mailed to PO Box 4055, Battle Creek, MI 49016 or donations can be made at allspecieskinship.org/donate. Memorial contributions may also be made to the organization of your choice.
Online condolences and memories can be left at kempffuneralhome.com.
Irene L. Tooker
Irene Louise Tooker, a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother peacefully passed Monday, June 10, 2019, surrounded by loved ones. Irene was born on March 26, 1941, in Gaylord, to Ephraim and Violet (Helwig) Brock.
Irene was the cornerstone of her family and loved by all. She enjoyed traveling with her husband and the many family vacations they took with their children and grandchildren. Her favorite was visiting her hometown of Gaylord. She was a longtime, devoted member of Mount Hope Church. Irene and her husband took pride in establishing and running their family farm. She will be remembered for the solid foundation and values on which her family was built. She was exceedingly generous, kind and genuine; the person the family turned to in times of joy and need. Irene had a warm personality and a sense of humor that could make you laugh even at the worst of times. Words will never be enough to describe what she meant to her family.
She was preceded in death by her husband and love of her life, Roger Tooker. They were happily married for 55 years. They raised three wonderful daughters, Julie (Robert) Hadley, Kelley (Allen) Coburn-Harris and Lori (Mark) Harris.
Irene took great pride in her grandchildren, Nikki (Jeff) Schwarz, Bobbi (Brent) Elliott, Josh (Ashley) Harris, Angela (Dennis) Warren, Adam (Miranda) Coburn, Jessie (Eric) Villegas, Zach (Jenna) Coburn and Jake (Alyshia) Coburn. Her great-grandchildren were the sunshine of her life: Dylan; Sidena, Mackenzie, Tooker, Aubrey and Addy; Aubrey and Anistyn; Chase and Cooper; Elia; Sam; and Mickey.
Irene is preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Alfred, Bill, Steve, Daniel and her sister Dorothy Beers.
She is survived by siblings, Elizabeth Julson, Earldine Payton and Tom (Cheryl) Brock.
Funeral services were held Thursday, June 13, 2019 at Mt. Hope Church in Lansing, with Pastor David Johnson officiating. Interment will take place at Strange Cemetery in Oneida Township.
Those desiring, may make contributions in Irene’s memory to the Potterville Library, 150 Library Lane, Potterville, MI 48876.
To view Irene’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family, please visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.
Charlotte I. Jones
Charlotte Ida (Heese) Jones of Charlotte, 2 Corinthians 5:8, 93, passed from time to Eternity at her residence in Charlotte, on June 7, 2019. Charlotte was born on March 22, 1926 in South Dakota, the daughter of German immigrants, Karl and Martha (Roeser) Heese. She grew up in Upstate New York and met her husband, Kenneth G. Jones (1917-2001), while attending college in East Lansing. Charlotte taught school for 43 years. The family would like to extend special thanks to Brendalee Pierce, who was dearly loved by Charlotte and whose expert care made it possible for her to remain in her house until the Lord called her home. Also, special thanks to Dr. Gamat Issacs and Barb Densmore of Visiting Doctors and Taelor Johns of Heartland Hospice.
She is survived by her only child, Kay Ann Jones; grandsons, Herb and wife, Alanna, and Ken.
Charlotte was preceded in death by her husband, Ken and four siblings.
Private graveside services will be held at Maple Hill Cemetery with Rev. Chuck Jenson officiating.
Those desiring may make memorial contributions in Charlotte’s memory to Eaton Clothing and Furniture Center, 133 S. Washington St. Charlotte, MI 48813.
Charlotte always remained true to her humble beginnings and helping others. The family wishes to share a special poem by an unknown author entitled, “The Rose Bud, It is only a tiny rosebud, a flower of God’s design, but I cannot unfold the petals with these clumsy hands of mine. The secret of unfolding flowers is now known to such as I. GOD opens his flower so easily, but in my hands they die. If I cannot unfold a rosebud, this flower of God’s design, then how can I have the wisdom to unfold this life of mine? So, I’ll trust in God for leading each moment of my day. I will look to God for guidance in each step of the way. The path that lies before me, only my Lord knows. I’ll trust God to unfold the moments, just as He unfolds the rose.”
Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. Please visit millsfuneral.com to place online condolences.