Obituaries
Robert K. Joppie
Robert Karl Joppie, 89, of Charlotte, died peacefully on Monday, October 1, 2018. Robert was born February 3, 1929, the son of Henry and Dorthea Joppie in Sunfield Township. He graduated from Charlotte High School in 1946 and started a career at Fisher Body Division of General Motors as a millwright, retiring after 43 years. Robert married the love of his life, Frances Eleanor Gould, on October 21, 1950. Robert was an incredible father to his three children. He had a huge appreciation of nature and time spent in the outdoors. He enjoyed a happy retirement filled with various hobbies, including hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, camping and meticulous lawn care and gardening. He also enjoyed watching Detroit Tigers Baseball.
Robert and Frances enjoyed years of travel throughout the United States. Robert spent a lot of his time helping his family and others, along with being a generous blood donor and a longtime supporter of Paralyzed Veterans and the American Lung Association. Robert was a phenomenal grandpa and spent many years attending his granddaughters’ special event and activities. He lived a very full life doing what he enjoyed, around the people he loved most and was always giving of himself.
Robert is survived by his son, James (Delsa) Joppie; daughter, Angela (Greg) Parker; daughter-in-law, Diana Joppie; granddaughters, Lauren (Brian) St. John and Grace (Evan) Boehmer; great-grandchildren, Everett and Faith St. John, and soon to be Belle Boehmer; sister, Phyllis (Emery) Fenstemaker; and his special friend and companion, sister-in-law, Evelyn Joppie.
He was predeceased by his wife, Frances; son, John Joppie; brothers, Russell Joppie and Earl Joppie; and sister, Maxine Harag.
Friends are encouraged to support Robert’s family at visitation and funeral services. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Friday, October 5, 2018 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating.
If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association, Michigan Great Lakes Chapter.
Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Robert on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.
Eugene A. McGarey
Eugene Arlo McGarey, of Charlotte, a quiet man with a passion for fishing, passed away on September 28, 2018 in Lansing at the age of 82. He was born on August 25, 1936 to Vernon and Ruth (Keiser) McGarey in Petoskey. On June 9, 1962 he married Ruth Andrus in Angola, Ind. Eugene worked at various auto assembly plants in Lansing, for General Motors until his retirement. After his retirement he joined the produce department at the Charlotte Meijer store where he worked for another 12 years until his second retirement.
Eugene was a quiet man, until he spoke about things for which he had a passion. These topics included fishing, firearms and family. Like so many other fisherman, he enjoyed trips to Canada, however, his trips always included his wife Ruth, or family. On the topic of firearms, he was a model member of the NRA, developing a deep knowledge of guns of all kinds. He loved the outdoors, not only for fishing and hunting, but also spending time in his personal orchard raising apples and pears that grew near his large vegetable garden.
Eugene was most proud of his family. His grandchildren softened his hard exterior. Eugene’s close relationship with each one of them had a strong influence on his grandchildren, helping them grow into successful adults. Above all, Eugene would tell you that his best accomplishment was being married to his late wife, Ruth for 53 years before she passed away in 2014.
Eugene is survived by his daughter, Susan Cross; son, Michael McGarey; five grandchildren, Megan McGarey, Jamie Cross, Marissa McGarey, Jordan Cross, and Justin Cross; two sisters, Doris Scott, and Linda Schwartz; and two brothers, Gordon McGarey, and Gary Auvinen.
Visitation was held Friday, October 5, 2018, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services are Saturday, October 6, 2018, at 1 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home, with Rev. Duane Royston, officiating.
If desired, the family suggests memorials to Michigan Pit Bull Rescue.
Family and friends are encouraged to share remembrances and condolences online on Eugene’s tribute page at prayfuneral.com.
Ronald J. Dedafoe
Ronald “Ron” James Dedafoe, of Onondaga, passed away unexpectedly, September 16, 2018 at the age of 76. He was born in Lansing, November 22, 1941, the son of Joseph and Pauline (Hilliard) Dedafoe. He worked for the State of Michigan for over 40 years, retiring from the DNR Fisheries Division in 2002. He and his wife, Nancy traveled around the country for several years in their motor home. Ron was a member of the All Color Tractor Club and liked putting chain saws and tractors together. He made a name for himself, “Flipper,” when he tipped his tractor over into the river. Ron was an avid hunter, enjoyed fishing and was a push over for dogs of various breeds. Most of all, he was a loving husband, father and uncle to his family.
Ron is survived by his wife of 56 years, Nancy Sue (Strouse) Dedafoe; daughters, Dawn Dedafoe of Onondaga, Amy Dedafoe of Georgia; sister, Gertrude Switzer of Holt; several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Kenneth, Joseph and Carl Dedafoe; sister, Karen Kemper; grand dog, Charlie.
No services are planned at this time.
Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 W. Grand River Rd. Lansing, MI 48906.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. Please visit millsfuneral.com to place online condolences or to sign the guest register.
Michael A. Dickinson
Michael Allen Dickinson, 69, of Charlotte, died September 21, 2018. He was born August 15, 1949. Mike was a handyman. He worked construction most of his life. He could fix anything, and he did a great job doing it. He was always full of smiles that would brighten your day, and would do anything for anybody. He loved to hunt and walk the woods. He could also tell you some pretty good hunting stories.
Mike will be missed by many. He was preceded in death by his parents, Fredric and Ethal Dickinson.
He is survived by four brothers and one sister, Bob (Barb) Dickinson, Carol (Terry) Piddington, Pat (Linda) Dickinson, Ken (Susan) Dickinson, and Stuart (Denice) Dickinson.
Mike married the love of his life, Jayne on August 25, 2012. He loved his kids and grandkids with all his heart. He is survived by children, Jason (Jill) Dickinson, Heath (Marcie) Dickinson; stepdaughter, Ashley (Jake) Wright; grandchildren, Victoria Dickinson, Brendan Dickinson, Reed Dickinson, Maverick Dickinson, Miken Dickenson, and Phoenix Wright.
There will be a celebration of life for Mike on October 13, 2018 at his home, 3618 N. Clinton Trail in Charlotte, from 1 to 6 p.m.
Helen L. Moore
Helen Lucille Moore, 96, of Charlotte, passed away Thursday, September 27, 2018, at home with her family by her side. She was born March 13, 1922, in Charlotte, the daughter of Rex and Ruth (Bingham) Bottomley. On February 5, 1949, she married Leslie George Moore at the Congregational Church in Charlotte. Lucille was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. Painting was one of Lucille’s favorite pastimes. She created many beautiful works of art throughout the years. Lucille also enjoyed knitting, sewing, and crocheting. She also loved her many different puppies.
Lucille is survived by her daughter, Patricia A. Driksna of Charlotte; grandchildren, Matthew (Kristen) Driksna, Dana (Kirk) Driksna-Rickerd; great-grandchildren, Kimberly, Ella, Lizzie, Brendan, Kathryn, Sean; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Leslie G. Moore; grandsons, Christopher Hiar, Michael Hiar, Sean Driksna; brothers: Carlton “Sparky” Bottomley, Thomas “Tom” Bottomley, Harold “Red” Bottomley; sister, Louise E. Brown.
Funeral services were held Monday, October 1, 2018 at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home, with Pastor Duane Royston officiating. Interment followed at Bosworth Cemetery in Olivet. The family will receive friends on Sunday, September 30, 2018, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the funeral home.
Those desiring may make contributions to the New Faith Church of the Nazarene, 302 E. Lovett St., Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Lucille’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.
John C. Thorndyke
John Charles Thorndyke, 68, of Marshall, passed away Monday, September 17, 2018, at his home with his family by his side. He was born January 4, 1950, in Battle Creek, the son of Virgil and Joan (DeVine) Thorndyke. On June 16, 1967, John married the love of his life, Katheryn “Kay” Mahan. John retired after many years of service as a heavy equipment operator from Operating Engineers Local 324. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He loved fishing and hunting, but most of all, he cherished flying his ultra-lite airplane. It brought him great joy to be soaring above the area and taking pictures of the magnificent scenery. John enjoyed dropping candy from his plane to children at the Olivet Fireman’s Festival and many other events. Throughout the years many local farmers have had John document the location of drainage tile with pictures of their fields from his plane.
John is survived by his wife of 51 years, Kay; children, Julie (Tom) Harmon of Olivet, Nancy Thorndyke-Reed of Olivet, William “Bill” (Stacy) Thorndyke of Olivet; grandchildren, Zachary Reed of Chicago, Samantha Reed of Chicago, Kaylee Harmon of Olivet, Joshua Harmon of Olivet; special dog, Sophie; siblings, JoAnn (Gary) Chapman of North Carolina, James (Donna) Thorndyke of Tennessee, Jay (Jean) Thorndyke of Bellevue, Jaci Thorndyke of Battle Creek, Jill Jacox of Battle Creek, Jed (Sonia) Thorndyke of Olivet; many nieces and nephews; and very special friends, Bob Parker, Josh Stults, Leo Rice, Jim Swan and Mack Lipe.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 13, 2018, at 11 a.m. at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home, with pastors Steve Byrens and Scott Brood officiating. The family received friends on Friday, October 12, 2018, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.
Those desiring, may make contributions in John’s memory to the Olivet Fire Department, City On A Hill Community Church, or Oaklawn Hospice.
To view John’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.
Stacy L. Christenson
Stacy “Tracy” Lee (Yoder) Christenson, a loving wife, mother, daughter and friend, died Sunday, September 30, 2018. Stacy, 43, was born November 4, 1974, in Grayling, to Eric and Marcia (Woodbury) Yoder. She married her sweetheart, Kevin Christenson, on October 9, 2010, and she was a loving stay at home mom. Being the life of the party was no problem for Stacy, she was the first person to start talking with others at events. Very straight forward and not afraid to speak her mind, friends would always ask Stacy for advice knowing they would get an honest answer. The biggest passion in life for Stacy was her family, and she especially loved weekend getaways to the family cabin. Other hobbies she enjoyed included photography, crafts and listening to music.
Stacy is survived by her loving husband, Kevin; children, Dillon (Grace) Kelley, Brendan Kelley, and Kamden Christenson; mother, Marci (Roger) Workman; siblings, Wayne (Diane) Hoeve, Jamey Hoeve, and Tracy Brown; father and mother in-law, Larry and Barbara Christenson; brother in-law, Adam (Elysse) Christenson; sister in-law, Lisa (Jeff) Haight; special friends, Travis Kelley, Dawn, Sherry, Mindy, and Reneè; and several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
Stacy was predeceased by father, Eric Yoder; and her grandparents.
Friends are encouraged to support Stacy’s family at visitation and memorial services at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Memorial services are Saturday, October 6, 2018 at 9:30 a.m., with Jameson Hoeve officiating. Visitation was Friday, October 5, 2018, from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m.
If desired, memorial contributions to the family to assist with final expenses.
Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Stacy on her tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.
Darwyn E. Jones
Darwyn Eldeen Jones, 76, of Charlotte, passed away on October 3, 2018 in Charlotte. He was born on August 31, 1942 to Eldeen and Norma (Bodell) Jones in Lansing. He graduated from Charlotte High School, followed by employment with GM for 32 years as a repairman. He was a Union Representative and was very honored to be an active contributor for his fellow workers rights.
Darwyn was a loving husband, wonderful father and grandfather, and great friend to many. Farming was his life and he was a sportsman for life. He enjoyed fishing, and deer hunting in the U.P., raising beef cattle, and gardening with his green thumb. He was a 4H leader and a natural teacher for those who wanted to learn about the farming life. A snowbird in the winter, and active wherever they were, Darwyn and Judy were a fun couple to keep up with.
Darwyn is survived by his wife, Judy; sons, Tim (Heidi) Jones, Travis (Kelly) Jones; daughter, Tina (Tim) Burkholder; grandchildren, Ashtin (Allan Wardell) Truax, Tyler Burkholder, Casey Jones, Clayton Jones, Caroline Jones; great-grandchildren, Willow and Oakley Wardell; sisters, Beverly (Keith) Wells, Sharon King; Jean Klaiss, Jackie Robinson, Merideth Potter; honorary brother, Terry (Mary Ellen) Ward.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Todd E. Jones, in-laws, Jack King, Donald Klaiss, Linda and James Davis.
Friends are encouraged to support Darwyn’s family at the visitation on Sunday, October 7, from 2 to 5 p.m., and the funeral service will be held on Monday, October 8 at 11 a.m., at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Greg Rinehart officiating.
If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to MSU Pediatric Oncology Clinic.
Memories and condolences will be appreciated online on Darwyn’s tribute page at prayfuneral.com.
Fred E. Lauback
Fred Edward Lauback, 81, of Charlotte, passed away Monday, September 24, 2018, at his home. There will be a celebration of his life at a later date.
Fred was born in Owosso January 30, 1937, the son of Fred and Alice (Aymor) Lauback. Fred married Lavonne M. Sexton on June 21, 1982, in Manistique. Fred proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He retired as a wood cutter in the forestry industry and he also worked for Block Plant in Midland. He was a farmer for most of his life. Fred enjoyed fishing, spending the summers camping, playing cards and dice with family and friends. He also enjoyed watching ball games. He resided the last 15 years in Charlotte.
He is survived by his wife Lavonne M. Lauback; children, Scott and Missy Thompson, Lacie Latimore, Fred and Dana Lauback, Alan and Robin Lauback, Daniel and Ramona Lauback, Ross Lauback; brothers, Jack and Leona Lauback, David and Cathy Lauback, sister Lucille Schneider; and brother-in-law, Thomas and Carley Sexton. He is also survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Online condolences can be sent to smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes – Osgood Chapel in St. Johns.
Growing up in Leelenau County, the movies always served as an escape for Leann Owen. Heading into Traverse City to see a movie at the State Theatre, or into Honor to catch a flick at the drive in, is some of her most cherished childhood memories.
Her love affair for movies has only grown in the past 18 years as she has worked her way from part-time employee at the Eaton Theatre in downtown Charlotte, to manager, and now owner.
Owen and her partner Tim Conley closed on the purchase of the Eaton Theatre on Friday, Oct. 5, setting in motion a number of plans Owen has for an enhanced community experience.
“I’ve had 18 years to think about what I could do with this place,” Owen said.
She said her first plan is to open the north wall of the lobby with two arched doorways that will lead to a classic 1980s-style arcade. The room located on the south end of the lobby will then transition to a virtual reality gaming room. Owen said she plans to have the gaming rooms open by Thanksgiving.
“At that point we can extend our hours and be a place kids can come after school,” Owen said. “It will be a place for people to hang out … not just teens, but families too. We’ll then add afternoon show times during the week.”
Continuing to be an affordable place for families to enjoy time together is a top priority. Owen has created a lot of community relationships through the theatre over the years. Her children spent countless hours with her there, one of the reasons she stayed on as manager long as she did.
“We’re here because we love it and we can sustain the cost of staying open,” Owen said. “We don’t need to make a lot of money. I want it to always be affordable to this community.”
In addition to being affordable, Owen plans to increase the theatre’s community involvement, building on the free family movies she instituted a number of years ago. Coming up Oct. 27 and 28, the Eaton Theatre gets in the Halloween spirit by offering a free showing of Hocus Pocus. Owen said the announcement of the event has already generated interest from more than 1,200 people, by far the theatre’s biggest event. She plans to show Wreck it Ralph during Small Business Saturday, coinciding with the release of Wreck it Ralph 2.
Her plans for the theatre are big, and will take time to complete. In addition to the new arcade, Owen said she plans to move the ticket booth back to the front entrance, and expand the lobby area to restore a classic 1940s or 50s feel. She also has plans to restore the marquee that was removed last year, though that project comes with a big price tag.
“People are going to see a lot of changes,” Owen said. “But, we have to take them one step at a time.”
The planned improvements are on top of renovations that have taken place in the last several years, which include a new roof, new furnaces, new lobby cooling system, ceiling fans in the main theatre that help circulate heat, digital projectors and new screens, reupholstered seats, and an updated sound system in each booth.
“A lot of what has been done recently isn’t that noticeable to customers,” Owen said. “There have been a lot of little improvements along the way, but I’m excited for what’s to come.”
Eaton Theatre, located at 235 S. Cochran Avenue in downtown Charlotte, is a first run movie theatre with a 500-seat lower theatre, and 150-seat second-floor theatre. For show times, find their weekly ad in The County Journal, and follow Eaton Theatre on Facebook.