Obituaries
Donald Lee DeBord
Donald Lee DeBord, a testament to craftsmanship and integrity, passed away on October 12, 2025, in Charlotte, Michigan, at the age of 91. He was born on September 22, 1934, in Crab Orchard, Kentucky. He dedicated his life to the art of brick masonry, a craft he began mastering at the young age of 15. Donald was a self-taught artisan whose meticulous attention to detail set him apart in his field. He held himself and those around him to the highest standards, embodying the values of hard work and excellence throughout his career.
Beyond his professional achievements, Donald was a man of strong will, honor, and truly embodied the essence of a gentleman. He found joy in various pursuits, including small game hunting, playing cards, and embarking on travels that broadened his horizons and enriched his life experiences. Don was proud of his Cherokee Native American heritage and his home State of Kentucky.
Don is survived by his children, David and Sharon DeBord of Hamersville, Ohio, John and Pat DeBord of Pelzer, South Carolina, Steve DeBord of Silver Spring, Maryland, Deborah Hook of Charlotte, Michigan, Annette and Shane Elliott of Russellville, Ohio; 17 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren; and great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his father, Ira DeBord, his mother, Susie Dishon DeBord, and several brothers and sisters.
A Mass of Christian Burial took place on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop celebrating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to Mass at the church. Burial will follow at Maple Hill Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contributions in Don’s memory to the Make-A-Wish Foundation at www.wish.org or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital www.stjude.org
To view Don’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.
Eugene Curtis Stevenson
Eugene Curtis Stevenson, lovingly known by friends and family as Curtis, brought vibrancy and passion to the lives of everyone he touched. Born on October 18, 1980, Curtis lived a life marked by resilience and creativity until his tragic passing from an auto accident on October 9, 2025, at the age of 44.
A proud graduate of Eaton Rapids High School, Curtis’s journey was one of continuous personal growth and giving back. His dedication to aiding others shone brightly, particularly in his role as a guest speaker at recovery events. Here, Curtis shared his experiences with immense bravery and kindness, connecting with listeners through his authenticity and serving as a beacon of hope for many grappling with similar struggles.
Curtis channeled his challenges into art, becoming an incredibly talented artist. His portfolio brimmed with countless paintings and drawings, as well as meticulously designed tattoos that he skillfully brought to life. Artistry was not merely a hobby for Curtis; it was a lifeline, a means of communicating his inner world, and a testament to his remarkable talent.
At a young age he mastered the rhythmic steps of tap dancing and continued to dance throughout his childhood up until high school.
Friends and acquaintances recall Curtis as the undeniable life of any party, a man who could effortlessly invigorate the spirits of those around him with his humor and charisma. Whether it was through a witty joke or a spontaneous act of creativity, Curtis’s ability to make others laugh was unparalleled.
Curtis’s approach to life was a masterful blend of fun and discipline. Upon returning home from work every day, he immediately immersed himself in hobbies, channeling his energy into staying busy, clean, motivated, disciplined, and inspired. His fervor for life and the arts was a daily reminder of his commitment to personal growth and the pursuit of his passions.
Described by those who knew him best as funny, creative, and passionate, Curtis lived out these traits in every aspect of his life. His legacy is one that will be cherished and remembered, an enduring inspiration to all who marveled at his journey and rejoiced in his accomplishments.
Curtis is survived by his daughters, Areya Dean of Albion, Tyler Stevenson of Haslett; mother, Jane Stevenson; sisters, Scarlett Stevenson, Autumn (Joshua) Vanesse; grandmother, Catherine Williams; niece, Vivien Stevenson; nephews, August Stevenson, Harvey Stevenson. He was preceded in death by his father, Eugene Stevenson.
Funeral Services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. Visitation was held Wednesday, October 15, 2025, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. as well as one hour prior to the service on Thursday. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family to help with Curtis’s final expenses. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.
Corrine Brandt
Corrine Brandt of Potterville, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend died peacefully on October 11, 2025, surrounded by her family. Corrine was born in Lansing, Michigan on February 16, 1940, to Harold and Gladys (Black) St. John. Corrine met her husband Frank Brandt and married on August 17, 1957. They were married for 53 years until Frank’s passing in 2010. Corrine retired after 30 years working as a cashier at Meijer in Lansing, having the pleasure of serving many customers over the years including Loretta Lynn and Magic Johnson. Corrine was a pillar of the Potterville community, volunteering much of her time and talent throughout the years. She served as treasurer of the PTA for Potterville Elementary and was a member of the Potterville Lioness Club.
Corrine was athletic in her younger years, both playing and coaching her girls in softball. She liked to watch many game shows and enjoyed challenging word search puzzles. Family was most important to her and her home was always surrounded with the love of family. She would look forward every year to camping trips with her children and grandchildren.
Corrine is survived by her daughters Cathy (Jerry) Neal, Penny Brandt, Pam (Mark) Benton, and Susan (Jon) Rogozinski; grandchildren, Scott (Olivia) Cole, Justin (Rebecka) Cole, Tori (Matt) Sweet, Kara (Brent) Mondoskin, Jamie (Chris) Barber; great-grandchildren Brandt Cole, Kinsley and Jaxon Sweet, and Sullivan Barber; brother, Keith (Sharon) St. John; sister-in-law, Shirley St. John; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Frank; her parents; brothers, Paul and Jerry St. John; and an infant son.
Friends are encouraged to support Corrine’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, October 17, 2025 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Life Celebrant Laura Cooper officiating. Interment will take place in Benton Township Cemetery. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Corrine’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Eaton County Health and Rehabilitation Services Unit A, the National Kidney Foundation or Harmony Cares Hospice. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Ruth Irene Morgan
Ruth Irene Morgan, age 97 of Charlotte, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2025, with her family beside her. She was born on January 4, 1928, in Sassafras, Kentucky, to Rufus and Zilda Armstrong. Ruth spent her early years in Kentucky, attending school in Sassafras before moving to Michigan with her family in 1949.
Throughout her commendable career, Ruth worked faithfully for over 30 years, retiring from Owens Illinois glass factory in Charlotte. She briefly worked at the pickle factory in Eaton Rapids prior to her long tenure at Owens Illinois.
Ruth had a passion for crafting; especially crocheting and knitting. She was a familiar face at craft shows around central Michigan, particularly at the Courthouse Square Craft Sale during the yearly Frontier Days, where she proudly sold her handmade tablecloths and crocheted doilies.
Ruth was known as a loving mother and grandmother, leaving behind her daughter, Marie Gordon of Grand Ledge; along with four grandchildren: Tammy Brandon, John Brandon, Jada (Mike Gardner) Blanchard, and Karen (Jeff) Strickling. Additionally, she is survived by twelve great-grandchildren: David, Doug, Jennifer, Genoa, Zack, Kaitlyn, Bryce, Kira, Gage, Noah, Kylie, and Caden; 17 great-great-grandchildren; her niece, Fay Maggard Binkowski; and many friends.
Ruth is preceded in death by her parents; her husband Zack Morgan, who passed away in 1978; her daughter Betty Brandon, who passed away in 1996; and her granddaughter Michelle Brandon, who left this world in 1970.
A graveside service will be held in her honor at Maple Hill Cemetery, located at 801 Tully Brown Drive, Charlotte, MI, on October 16, 2025, starting at 11:00 a.m. Family and friends are invited to attend as they remember the life and legacy of Ruth Irene Morgan.
Those desiring to make contributions in Ruth’s memory may do so by donating to Siren Eaton Shelter, 520 Robinson Street, Charlotte, MI 48813.
The family would like to thank the kind and caring staff of ECHRS who lovingly cared for Ruth in her final days.
To leave a condolence for the family or to view Ruth’s obituary online, please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.
Patricia Zoa Dennis
Patricia “Pat” Zoa Dennis, 74, of Battle Creek, passed away on October 4, 2025. A devoted mother, homemaker, and mentor to many, Pat was known for her kindness, her generous spirit, and her unwavering love for her family. Born on September 27, 1951, in Charlotte, Michigan, Pat was the daughter of Raymond Ardean and Barbara Jean (Stewart) Barlond. She graduated from Maple Valley High School in 1970.
Over the years, Pat worked at Jack & Judy’s Country Kettle and Linn Products, but her true calling was at home—raising her family with deep care, strength, and love. Her kitchen was a hub of warmth and activity, where she found joy in baking, cooking, and canning, often sharing her creations with loved ones.
Pat cherished time with her great-grandchildren and embraced every moment of play and laughter with them. A lover of nature, she found peace and pleasure in the outdoors—whether she was feeding birds and wildlife, fishing, or camping. She found beauty in life’s simple pleasures and shared that appreciation with those around her. Pat also enjoyed sewing, woodworking, doing upholstery work, and most recently doing diamond canvas. She will be remembered for her nurturing heart, her quiet wisdom, and the love she so freely gave to family, friends, and even strangers.
Pat is survived by her husband of nearly 56 years, William “Bill” Dennis; children, Brian (Lila) Dennis, and Michelle (Ryan) Wells; grandchildren, Joel, Jonathon, Jeremy, Jacob, Cede, Bailey, Austin and Cameron; and great-grandchildren, Braelyn, Ellinore, Karter, Micah, Atlas, Everlee and Hudson; siblings, Penny (Chris) Brumm, and Pam Stine; and dear friends, Gin and Sally. She was predeceased in death by her parents, Raymond Ardean and Barbara Jean (Stewart) Barlond; son, Michal Dennis; brother, Raymond Barlond; sister, Paula Barlond; and grandson, Brian Michael Wells.
Friends are encouraged to support Patricia’s family by attending services or sharing memories on Pat’s Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Sunday, October 12, 2025 from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Funeral services are Monday, October 13, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Rev. Kendale Dennis officiating. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Pat’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Shriners or Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
P. Roxanne (Rocheleau) Baker
P. Roxanne (Rocheleau) Baker, 86, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2025, surrounded by family. Roxanne was born and raised in Cheboygan, Michigan and built a life centered around family, hard work, and community. Alongside her husband, Don, she owned and operated the M-50 Party Store for many years, creating a welcoming place for friends and neighbors. Following the sale of the store, she began a successful career in real estate, where she continued to serve her community with dedication, warmth, and a feisty spirit.
Roxanne found joy in the simple pleasures of life, reading, dancing, and spending cherished time with her children and grandchildren. She was a proud and active member of the St. Mary and St. Ann community and the Eaton Area Senior Center, where she formed many dear friendships over the years.
Roxanne is survived by her children, Mark Newman, Todd (Katie) Newman, Donna (Dan) Walker, and Noel (Chasade) Baker; three step-sons, Rod, David, and Brian Baker; her beloved grandchildren, Bobbi Jo (Lonnie), Jake (Brittany), Jillian (John), and Konrad; great-grandchild, Luke; sister, Donna Beachnau. Roxanne is proceeded in death by her parents, Oscar and Alfreda (Bellrose) Rocheleau; siblings, Gordon Rocheleau and Collin Rocheleau.
Friends are encouraged to support Roxanne’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Wednesday, October 8, 2025, from 6-8:00 p.m. with a rosary at 7:30 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. A funeral mass was held on Thursday, October 9, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte, with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery in Vermontville. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to St. Mary Catholic Church. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Lucille Bennett
On October 1, 2025 at age 100, Lucille (Lucy) Bennett our sweet and loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and great-great grandmother passed away peacefully at Independence Village Grand Ledge.
She was born to Clyde and Rose (McMann) Lamb on July 30, 1925. She was a graduate of Okemos High School and married her high school sweetheart Dean Bennett. Together they spent the next 66 years creating their legacy until his passing in 2011.
She proudly worked alongside Dean running the family farm and blacksmith business. They traveled in their motorhome and enjoyed many winters in Florida. In her later years, Lucy worked at Show & Tell, mostly at the Charlotte Meijer and also volunteered for the Hospice Furniture Store.
She was a caring and loving person that enjoyed nothing better than to hold your hand. She loved and supported her family in everything they did, and hosted holidays and parties at the farm.
Lucy is preceded in death by her husband, Dean Bennett; daughter-in-law, Susan Bennett; her parents; several brothers and sisters; as well as extended family and friends.
She is survived by her children, Diane (Ron), Pete, and Jim (Morianne); grandchildren, Darrin (Julie), Deana, Dale (Kathy), Gregory, Jeffrey, Maggie, Brandi (David), Tye (Alysin), and Chris (Erin); great grandchildren, Kyle (Jessica), Tori, Lillian (Kaleb), Jack, Sam, Zach (Jalyn), Lynsey, Vince, Wyatt, Emerson, Charlie, Gus, Finn, and Declan; great-great grandchildren, Eleanor, Wyatt, Dean, and one more on the way. Her legacy lives on in the family she so deeply loved.
The family wants to thank the amazing staff at Independence Village, treating her as a member of their own family. Also, to Corso Care Hospice that helped make her final days comfortable. Special thanks to Chaplin Grant Fifield for his calming singing and prayers. She will be deeply missed by all that loved her.
Lucy was entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Home. Per her wishes, there are no services planned, and she will be buried with her loving husband, Dean.
Carl Wayne Moist
Carl Wayne Moist, a true cowboy, died peacefully surrounded by his family on September 13, 2025. Carl, 85, of Charlotte was born September 19, 1939 in Charlotte to Myron and Vera (Russell) Moist. Carl was a man that believed that family always came first. Being raised by a single mother, he made sure she was cared for throughout her life. He loved riding motorcycles; his first bike was a Zun Dap. Carl loved horses and was a lifetime member of the Pony Cart Club. Being outdoors was a favorite place for Carl, including shooting, coon hunting, fishing, and vegetable gardening. In fact, Carl even made his own wooden longbow and arrows. Carl was also a Golden Glove boxer. Carl worked for the City of Charlotte for over 30 years. He could be seen plowing snow, running the street-sweeper, and reading every water meter in town.
Carl is survived by his wife of 62 years, Sandra; children, Penny (Chris) Hall, Tammy (Bill) Towe, and Todd (Tanya) Moist; grandchildren, Dustin (Kelly) Detering, Cassie (Heath) Schaeffer, Josh Moist, and Brittany Moist; great-grandchildren, Landon, Hannah, Hazel, Izzadora, Connor, Damion, Ryan, and Serina; nephew, Robert Wayne Moist; and niece, Charlene; and numerous nieces and nephews and extended family members. Carl was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Bob, Margaret, Bill, Phyllis, and Elmo.
Friends are encouraged to support Carl’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Services were held on Tuesday and Wednesday, September 16 and 17 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Interment took place at Gresham Cemetery in Charlotte. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Wanda Evelyn Keesler
Wanda Evelyn Keesler, age 91, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 4, 2025. She was born July 8, 1934, in Dunkerton, Iowa, the daughter of Clayton and Edna (Keller) Fike. Wanda spent her growing up years at her family home in Iowa, where she was one of 12 children. She loved caring for others and always made sure her siblings were all loved and cared for. Wanda had a very giving heart and would give you the shirt of her back. She enjoyed traveling, watching her television programs, and reading a good book.
Wanda is survived by her son, David Arnold; granddaughter, Ally Arnold; special niece, Judy Hollaway; dear friend, Martha Beam; and friend and hairdresser, Barb Burpee.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harold Keesler; and all her 12 siblings.
In keeping with Wanda’s wishes cremation has taken place and no services will be held.
Evelyn Myrtle Koning
Evelyn Myrtle Koning died of natural causes on September 27, 2025 at Hope Landing Assisted Living in Charlotte, Michigan, within a week of her 96th birthday.
Evelyn was born on October 3, 1929 to Wendell W. and Olive E. (Bennett) DeMeritt, on the farm of Edward O. F. DeMeritt near Morenci, Michigan. She was raised through the depression years by her parents, and by Aunt Lillian Porter of Morenci while her parents worked in Florida. She attended a range of schools including Sand Creek High School and Adrian High School, where she graduated in 1947 as class valedictorian. She married her high-school sweetheart, Robert P. Sears on August 29, 1948. Evelyn delivered daughter N. Kathleen in 1950, but Robert was tragically killed in a trucking accident later that year.
Evelyn went into nurses training, where she met David R. Koning, a patient in the Adrian hospital. David and Evelyn were married on September 20, 1952. Evelyn delivered son Ross E. in 1953, daughter M. Christine in 1955, and son Paul D. in 1957. The family moved to Charlotte, Michigan in 1958. Evelyn enjoyed sewing, cooking, gardening, canning, freezing, decorating, hosting parties, and sold World Book Encyclopedias, as she raised her four children into middle-school age. She then entered Lansing Community College and Michigan State University to earn her Bachelor’s degree and teaching certificate (1970), and her Master’s degree in Reading (1972). She started teaching at Charlotte Junior High School in 1971 and retired from Galewood Elementary School in 1991.
Evelyn joined her first church as a youth and encouraged her parents to join. She and both husbands were church members. All of her children were baptized and became members of Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church in Charlotte. Family life always included the church. Evelyn was a Sunday School teacher and Superintendent. She was a Cub Scout den mother and a Campfire Girls leader. She had a beautiful singing voice and provided many solo performances. Evelyn was an active member of the Order of Eastern Star, served a term as Worthy Matron, and was its Chaplain for many years.
Living to the age of 95, she was preceded in death by her forebears; husbands; brother, William W. DeMeritt; and two sons-in-law. She is survived by her four children, 11 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren. A celebration of life for Evelyn will be held at 210 East Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church in Charlotte on November 16, 2025 at 1:30 p.m.; in lieu of flowers, memorial donations are welcome at the church. Her family will inter the cremains of David and Evelyn Koning at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci, Michigan on November 17, 2025.