Obituaries
Donald B. Turner
Donald Benson Turner, aka “The Fixner,” passed away on February 24, 2018 at the age of 70. The life-long Charlotte resident was born on May 28, 1947 to Robert William and Thelsa E. (Sampson) Turner in Charlotte. His first name was chosen by his grandma, Myrtle Mae Sampson. His philosophies, insights and work ethic are to be admired. Donald never backed down from the truth. He was one to rethink or redesign for a solution, but he never quit. He would always complete the project. He could always be counted on for those who needed help.
He was a perfectionist-do it all the way. He despised the words, “I can’t.” If it’s difficult to do, we do it immediately. If it’s impossible, it will take a little longer. Not impossible, but I’m Possible! His memories of growing up were idyllic in the post-war years. You knew everyone in the neighborhood, and there was no fear. They didn’t have much money, but enjoyed building things such as soapbox derby cars, and such. One of his favorite memories as a young boy was riding a raft “Tom Sawyer style” in the Duffy Drain. It was a “we society” back then, helping each other and the family structure reigned.
Donald was an extreme workaholic, putting in 60 to 70 hours weekly. He was a patient, thorough and disciplined teacher, teaching compliance regulations at Minor Walton Bean (where he was employed for 37 years) and was thoughtful to teach at the needed education level for the varied employees. He took responsibility for their grasping the details, and was known to say, “that if they didn’t pass, he didn’t teach them right.” He had a fantastic memory with details and an uncanny sense of direction. One of his dreams was to fly an airplane.
He tutored for residential construction at LCC. As a final exam for an LCC class, he wrote the City of Lansing payroll computer program. He was determined to maintain the 100-year-old homestead and enjoyed gardening and the chores that went along with the family property. He restored a 1937 John Deere tractor with one of his buddies. He enjoyed attending church with his family, and loved singing the southern gospel hymns. He had a strong bass voice, and loved to harmonize.
Donald is survived by his siblings, David Turner, and Nancy Turner. He was preceded in death by his parents.
If desired, the family suggests memorial donations to The Courthouse Square Association.
Family and friends are encouraged to share remembrances and condolences online in Donald’s tribute page at prayfuneral.com.
Rex D. Royston, Sr.
Rex Duane Royston Sr., a hard-working farmer and jack-of-all-trades, 93, of Charlotte and formerly Vermontville, died February 23, 2018. Rex was born July 2, 1924 in Lansing to Leo and Freda (Sawdy) Royston. Rex loved being outdoors and spending time on the farm with his grandchildren, fishing, and going to auctions. These are his family’s fondest memories of him. He collected clocks, and loved to tinker…he was always working at something. When he did sit down, he loved reading Louis L’Amour westerns and listening to country music.
Rex is survived by his sons, Rex (Kay) Royston Jr., Gary (Kieran) Royston; daughters, Nancy (Dennis) Carpenter, and Sue Fawley; 10 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; one great great-grandchild; sister, Fern Royston; and brothers, Lyle (Shirley) Royston, and Gerald (Joan) Royston.
He was predeceased by his wife, Ruth; brothers, Donald and Loren; and sister, Leah.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, February 28, 2018, at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating.
If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Lansing Hospice.
Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Rex on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.
Sandra J. Zimmer
Sandra Jean Robson Zimmer, 77, of Charlotte, passed away Sunday, February 25, 2018, at her home. She was born November 18, 1940, in Detroit, the daughter of George and Elsie Robson. Sandra graduated from Belleville High School with the class of 1958. She later attended the University of Michigan. On October 15, 1965, she married Donald E. Zimmer in Belleville. They spent most of their married life and raised their children in Charlotte. She enjoyed quilting, playing the fiddle, and old-time music.
Sandy is survived by her children, Gwen Zimmer of Crystal, Don (Beth) Zimmer of Big Rapids, Jennifer (Greg) Weis of Battle Creek; four grandchildren, Caleb Freestone, Amelia Freestone, Brettanya Zimmer, Merideth Weis; and companion, Mark Wesley.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Donald E. Zimmer in 1998; and brother, George Robson.
Funeral services were held on Friday, March 2, 2018, at 11 a.m. at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home in Charlotte. Interment took place at Tyler Road Cemetery in Belleville.
Those desiring may make contributions in Sandra’s memory to the Donald E. Zimmer Fund c/o Eaton Community Foundation, P.O. Box 204, Charlotte, MI 48813 or Wheatland Music Organization, 7251 50th Ave., Remus, MI 49340.
Sandra E. Groff
Sandra Ellen (Alfrey) Groff of Eaton Rapids passed away on Wednesday, February 21, 2018 after being diagnosed with cancer in May, 2017. Sandra was born on February 11, 1947 in Wyandotte, Mich., the daughter of William “Leonard” and Jewel (Manier) Alfrey. She returned to high school while pregnant with her fourth child and earned her diploma in 1978.
Sandra’s greatest passion was her nine grandchildren, Tony, KaitLynn, Deanna, Lilliann, Owen, Gwendolyn, Dalton, Mannox and Cannon. She was an amazing artist who enjoyed drawing and painting nature scenes, animals and people. She gave most of her works as gifts.
Sandra is survived by her children, Steve (Kim) Groff Jr., Rachel (Norm) Nealey, Stacy Groff, Erica (Ray) Huerta, Ed (Jodie) Benitez Jr.; eight grandchildren; sister, Lori Jaramillo; brothers, Tim (Joan) Alfrey, Steve (Wendy) Alfrey and numerous extended family and friends.
She is preceded in death by her parents; sister, Diana Mallory; and grandson, Tony Benitez.
There will be a gathering for burial on Saturday, March 3, 2018, at 2 p.m. at Rosehill Cemetery in Eaton Rapids. Family and friends are invited to come pay respects.
For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice House of Mid Michigan in memory of Sandra.
To share memories or condolences, please visit SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Joyce M. Ott
Joyce Marie Ott, 83, of Charlotte, passed away Saturday, February 17, 2018, at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. She was born November 11, 1934, in Olivet, the daughter of Dale and Mildred (Goodwin) Schrontz. Joyce went on to graduate from Olivet High School with the class of 1952. She adored her family and always looked forward to being together. Joyce was a wonderful cook and prepared many magnificent family meals. She enjoyed dancing at the Moose Lodge, bowling, and jigsaw puzzles.
Joyce is survived by her sons, Doug (Beth) Ripley of East Lansing, Neil (Lori) Ott of Allegan; step-children, Ken (Sue) Ott, Sue (Fred) Weiting, Larry (Nancy) Ott, Mike (Karen Hendrick) Ott; 12 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and brother, Pete (Joyce) Schrontz.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Ripley; sons, Donnie Ripley and Lonnie Ripley.
The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to Julie VanSyckle for the tremendous love and care she showed to Joyce.
A memorial service was held Wednesday, February 21, 2018, at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home in Charlotte. Interment took place at Bosworth Cemetery in Olivet.
Those desiring may make contributions in Joyce’s honor to the Olivet High School Class of 1982 Scholarship Fund.
To view Joyce’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family, please visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.
Linda J. Kincaid
Linda Jane Kincaid (Dossett) passed away January 8, 2018 at her home in Omaha, Neb. She was cared for by Robert Kincaid for the last few years. Linda was born May 1, 1953 in Charlotte to Douglas and Genevieve (Bumford) Dossett. She graduated from Charlotte High School in 1971. Linda worked for Carter’s IGA corporate office in Charlotte after graduation, and then moved to Omaha in the early 1980s. After moving to Omaha, she worked in data processing for Sara Lee for most of her life, then moving on as a bookkeeper for Watt Telemarketing. She loved cats, collected all things cats, California Raisins, Ferbies, jewelry, and loved to shop online.
Linda is survived by her ex-husband and companion, Robert Kincaid; sister, Martha (Tom) Gibson; nephew, Todd Gibson; nieces, Amanda (Trevor) Carr, and Katie Gibson Stofflet; great-nephews and nieces, Alyssa, Jonathan, Genevieve Gibson, and Joe Carr; cousins, SueAnne (Nicholas) Hillard, Russell Nichols, Kay Lynn (Gunnison) House, and Forest Gunnison.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and her sister, Diana.
There will be no services; she was cremated as per her wishes. A special thank you to Robert Kincaid who loved and cared for her for 35 years, despite being divorced for 34 years.
Lon M. Senko
Lon Michael Senko, 69, of Charlotte, passed away Tuesday, February 20, 2018 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born October 4, 1948 in Marlette, Mich., the son of Francis and Betty (Bates) Senko. He graduated from Grand Ledge High School with the class of 1967. He went on to earn a degree in engineering. Lon worked his entire career for the State of Michigan, where he worked as a bridge inspector. He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War in the United States Air Force. After returning from the war he went on to serve in the United States National Guard and retired after many faithful years of service. On April 20, 2002 he married Linda Jane Andrew. Lon loved his family and cherished every opportunity he had to be together. He supported not only them, but many others in whatever dream they were pursuing. Lon was a Past Commander of the VFW Maple City Post 2406 in Charlotte, Past National President of DADS of Foreign Service Veterans, and life member of the American Legion Post 42 in Charlotte. Lon also served as Deacon at the South Lansing Church of Christ and was active as a member of the Charlotte Church of Christ. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, hunting, and traveling.
Lon is survived by his wife, Linda; children, Michelle (Chris) Senko-Patch of Swartz Creek, Eric (Brittney) Senko of Las Vegas, Nev., Christine (James) LeBrun of Sumter, S.C., Lissa (Troy Lahr) Staszuk of Potterville, Brian (Julia) Wigington of Pahrump, Nev.; 10 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; brothers, Gary (Rose) Senko of Onondaga, Bob (DeeDee) Senko of Boulder City, Nev.; several nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Carolyn (Tom) Mahon of Charlotte.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, February 26, 2018 at 11 a.m. at the Charlotte Church of Christ, 64 Vansickle Drive in Charlotte, with Pastor John Bailey officiating. The family will receive friends on Sunday, February 25, 2018, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home in Charlotte. Interment will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Battle Creek.
In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make contributions in Lon’s honor to the VFW National Home for Children, 3573 S. Waverly Rd., Eaton Rapids, MI 48827 or VFW Camp Trotter, 924 N Washington Ave., Lansing, MI 48906.
To view Lon’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family, please visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.
Rose-Ann M. LaJoice
Rose-Ann Marie (Rapson) LaJoice, a gracious hostess, proud mother and loyal friend, 76, of Eaton Rapids, passed away on Monday, February 19, 2018. She was born in Detroit on September 25, 1941 to Chester and Gertrude (Kanzler) Rapson. Rose-Ann was raised in the Upper Peninsula. She married Patrick J. LaJoice, of St. Ignace on November 9, 1964 in Brimley, Mich.
Rose-Ann was always a phone call away — she would be there to help. After her father died, Rose-Ann being the first born of her siblings, took on many responsibilities on the family farm, which led to a very close-knit family. She worked as a phone operator for Michigan Bell Telephone Company in St. Ignace. She was also the cafeteria manager for the State of Michigan Treasury Building, Teacher’s Aide at Eaton Rapids Schools and retired from Walmart in Charlotte after 15 years of service. Rose-Ann was very charitable, and a devoted Catholic serving at St. Jude’s, and St. Mary Church, and involved in Women’s groups and Bible studies over the years.
Rose-Ann loved to travel and visit her family. One of her most cherished trips was traveling to Italy and visiting the Vatican and Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels in Assisi where St Francis of Assisi lived and where he began the Franciscan Order. Her hobbies included collecting, crocheting, and crafting. Rose-Ann loved playing cards and learning new games while chatting with friends.
Rose-Ann is survived by her husband, Patrick; sons, John K. LaJoice of Florida, Ray P. LaJoice, and Michael G. LaJoice of Eaton Rapids; grandchildren, Eric LaJoice, David LaJoice, Chad LaJoice and Kaylee Connor; great-grandson, Remington Connor; siblings, George (Gloria) Rapson, John (Betty) Rapson, Gary (Susan) Rapson, Mary (Robert) Squires, Darlene (David) Taylor, Leo (Connie) Rapson and Lorraine (Marty) Rapson.
She was preceded in death by parents; infant son, James LaJoice; and sister, Teresa Valerie Semasky.
Visitation was held Friday, February 23, 2018 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. with a Rosary at 7:15 p.m. Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, February 24, 2018 at 10 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating.
If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or St. Mary Catholic Church.
Family and friends are encouraged to share remembrances and condolences online in Rose-Ann’s tribute page at prayfuneral.com.
William E. Lake
William Earl Lake, 42, of Charlotte, passed away unexpectedly Monday, February 12, 2018, at his home. He was born July 19, 1975, in Charlotte, the son of David and Kathleen (Moehring) Lake. Bill graduated from Charlotte High School in 1994. On June 26, 2004 he married Jennifer Kay Hildebrant. Bill adored his two boys, David and Tyler. They were the apple of his eye. Whether it was attending their sporting events or just spending time together, he loved it all. Bill also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and watching football. He worked as an electrician/millwright for Renewal Technologies in Leslie.
Bill is survived by his wife, Jennifer; sons, David Lake, Tyler Lake; parents, David and Kathleen Lake; sister, Jessica (Greg) King; grandmother, Rhoda Moehring; mother and father-in-law, Robert and Robin Osenbaugh; brother and sisters-in-law, William (Amanda) Hildebrant, Wayne (Amanda) Osenbaugh, LaLena (Scott) Lindsey, Jacob Hildebrant, Josh Bumstead; step mother-in-law, Sara Hildebrant; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, William and Catherine Moehring.
Funeral services were held on Friday, February 16, 2018, at 1 p.m. at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home in Charlotte.
Carl J. Archer
Carl Joseph “Joe” Archer, a big hearted husband, father, and animal lover, died peacefully at his home on Friday, February 9, 2018 surrounded by his loving family and dearest friends. Joe, 67, of Bellevue, was born January 9, 1951 in Charlotte, the son of Virgil O. and Katherine L. (Westrick) Archer.
Joe lived a full life. He served in the National Guard, was a 4H Rodeo leader, and loved farming. He enjoyed his horses and watching his kids, grandkids, and 4H kids ride. He loved to drive his Peterbuilt semi “Smokin’ Joe” and tinkering with it in his shop. Above all, he loved his family and friends, who will miss his great sense of humor and big heart.
Joe is survived by his wife of 47 years, Linda; mother, Katherine; three children, Lori (Tim) Briggs, Tom (Meghann) Archer and Chad (Anne) Archer; seven dearly loved grandchildren, Mikayla (Michael Starken) Densmore, Gabrielle Densmore, Noah Briggs, Nick Briggs, Gracie Little, Teaghann Little, and Cameron Trask. Survived by his siblings, Jerry (Sandy) Archer, Larry (Janet) Archer, Luann Klont, Carolyn (Paul) Haas, Chuck (Suzanne) Archer, Scott Archer, and Don Archer. Joe was welcomed home by his father, Virgil; brothers, Robert, Kenny and Bill Archer, and his beloved nephew and godson, Andy Archer.
“Those who love don’t go away. They walk besides us everyday…unseen, unheard, but always here. Still loved, still missed and very dear.”
Funeral services were held Tuesday, February 13, 2018 at Pray Funeral Home, with Rev. Phil Hobson officiating. Interment took place at West Carmel Cemetery.
If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the family.
Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Joe on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.