Obituaries
Carl W. Davis
Carl Wilbert Davis, age 88, passed away Saturday, July 17, 2021, in Okemos. Carl was born to Robert E. and M. Dorena Davis on February 4, 1933, in Webster, Oh. He grew up in Huron County, Mich. until 1965, when he moved his family to Williamston, Mich. Carl later moved to Charlotte, Mich. where he resided for over 45 years.
Carl worked as an oiler at General Motors for 30 years. He enjoyed going all over Michigan to different restaurants. Some of his favorite foods were fried bologna sandwiches and chicken gizzards. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family at any kind of event. As long as he was with the kids and grandkids, he was happy. Carl was quite the jokester and prankster.
Carl was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Alma King, Dolly Graham, Frances Rose, Shelby Vugrin, Marie Radabaugh, Doris Bays; brothers, Robert Davis, Charles, Daniel, and William Benda; son-in-law, Gene Cebula; and his first-born son, Glenn P. Davis whom he missed dearly.
He is survived by his sister, Peg Henke of DeWitt; children, Beth Davis of Dansville, April Cebula of Dansville, Diane (Kevin) Webster of Williamston, Bob (the late Carolyn Grabarczyk) Davis of Williamston, Tom Davis of Williamston, Tracy (Dennis) Putman of Charlotte, Barry (Jennifer) Davis of Webberville, Skip (Jamie) Clark of Lansing, Randy (Lisa) Clark of Springport, Dan (Kathy) Clark of Potterville; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, all whom will miss him very much.
Funeral services were held on Wednesday, July 21, 2021, at the Webberville United Methodist Church, 4215 Holt Road, Webberville, MI 48892, with Pastor Marty Johnston officiating. Burial took place at Alchin Farm Cemetery.
To view Carl’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Francis Calnan
Francis “Wayne” Calnan of Charlotte, a wonderful father, husband and friend, passed away on April 24, 2021, surrounded by his family. Wayne, who was 77, was born on January 30, 1944, in Lowell, Mass. He graduated from Sexton High School in Lansing, Mich., and was a member of the wrestling team. Wayne lived most of his life in Charlotte, Mich., was active in his church and worked for General Motors for 34 years. He enjoyed his retirement, camping trips and poodles, and was very proud of his grandchildren. Wayne was a great cook and enjoyed making homemade soup and spaghetti sauce every time they visited. He was well known for all his stories and could talk to anyone.
Wayne is survived by his wife, Judy; daughters, Shelene (Dave) Hahn, Marcy (Matt) Billings, Lisa (Steve) Creller, and son, Timothy Calnan; and many grandchildren. At Wayne’s request, there will be no service or visitation. Cremation has taken place. If desired, the family suggests a memorial contribution to the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews at ifcj.org.
Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. Please visit millsfuneral.com to place online condolences.
Paul C. Blatt
Paul Collins Blatt passed away in Tampa, Fla. on Wednesday, January 6, 2021, at the age of 82. He was born January 25, 1938, in Eaton Rapids, Mich., the son of Francis and Helen (Collins) Blatt. He graduated from high school in Eaton Rapids in 1956 prior to graduating from Lansing Business University. Paul married Bonnie Lee Harshey on December 16, 1961, and together they raised their three children in Lansing and Eaton Rapids. Paul and Bonnie permanently moved to Fla. in 2000. He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Virginia, Clara, and his twin, Robert; and by his wife, Bonnie in 2016. He is survived by his sons, Jeffrey (Linda) Blatt, and Douglas (Tricia) Blatt; his daughter Rebecca (John) Galaudet; and his brother John (Carolyn) Blatt. He also leaves four grandchildren, Alexander Blatt, Anthony (Mina) Blatt, Allison Galaudet, and Matthew Galaudet.
Paul retired from the State of Michigan after 31 years of service. He often spoke fondly of his career as a state employee. After retirement, he and Bonnie traveled extensively throughout the United States and took multiple trips to the United Kingdom and Europe. One of their most recent trips was a cruise through the Panama Canal. When their children were younger, they enjoyed camping throughout the U.S, and as empty nesters, they volunteered in multiple National and State parks. They finally settled in Dunedin, Fla. (the Tampa area). His children found that they were much busier in retirement than when he was working.
Paul was known for watching the news and discussing it with anyone who would listen. He quite often would call his children to discuss the news and politics.
Paul will be laid to rest in Eaton Rapids, Mich. with a memorial service at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 31, 2021, at the First United Methodist Church in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Moffitt Cancer Center (moffitt.org/give) or PBS Station WEDU (wedu.org). To share memories or leave condolences please visit SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Karen A. Croyle
Karen Ann Croyle, 70, of Charlotte, died unexpectedly on Sunday, July 11, 2021 at her home. Karen was born January 13, 1951, the daughter of Roy and Eris Croyle. Karen graduated from Charlotte High School in 1969 and later earned her Associates Degree. She worked 20 years at the State of Michigan Department of Treasury, retiring in 1993. In retirement, she worked in social services, and four years housecleaning. Throughout her life, Karen enjoyed painting, reading, and Southern Gospel music strummed on banjo. She enjoyed time outdoors in her gardens, tending her flowers and vegetables. Many will remember Karen’s giving spirit, both as a volunteer at Hayes Green Beach Hospital, and in her daily service to others.
Karen is survived by her son, Kevin Borgman; grandchildren, Ashley Halliwill, Derek Halliwill, Lexie Jackson, and Tyler Borgman; great-granddaughter, Nevada Halliwill; and her beloved dogs, Hazel, Harlee, and Joey. She was predeceased by her daughter, Angela Halliwill; sister, Cheryl Croyle; infant brother, Kevin Croyle; and her parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Karen’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her tribute page at prayfuneral.com. Memorial services will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, July 19, 2021 at Pray Funeral Home with Pastor Steve Byrens officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Eaton County Humane Society. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Barbara J. Davis
Barbara Jean Davis, an educator, collaborator, advocate for the needy, and above all, a wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, died Wednesday, June 30, 2021, at her home surrounded by her loving family. Barbara was born January 28, 1942, in Manistee, Mich., the daughter of Hugo and Martha (Kivimaa) Troppi. As a Junior in High School, Barbara asked James Davis to attend a Sadie Hawkins Dance. They would later marry on March 21, 1964. Barbara obtained her undergraduate and master’s degree from Michigan State University, followed by a doctorate degree from The University of Chicago. In the 1960’s Barbara worked as an english teacher at Charlotte High School. She then accepted a job at the Eaton Intermediate School District working as a coordinator for gifted and talented. Once she retired from the EISD she accepted a position at Olivet College as the Director of Character Education. Throughout her working career Barbara touched and helped shape the lives of countless students.
Barbara was a proud member of Peace Lutheran Church in Charlotte, where she sang in the choir, taught Sunday school and bible study. She was active in the Charlotte Women’s Club, AAUW, MEA, NEA, and ABWA. When she was not working, Barbara enjoyed writing, and successfully published two books. She enjoyed painting, attending concerts and plays, listening to music, working out at AL!VE, traveling, and most importantly spending time with her family.
Barbara is survived by her loving husband, James Davis; children, Katherine (Shane) Gonser, James Davis; grandchildren, Shelby and Kollin Gonser, James and Hudson Davis; sisters, Kay (Norman) Jagger, Virginia (Jay) Matheson. She was predeceased by her parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Barbara’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her tribute page at prayfuneral.com. A memorial service was held on Tuesday, July 12, 2021 at the Peace Lutheran Church in Charlotte, with Pastor Neil Brady officiating. The funeral was webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to prayfuneral.com, click on Barbara’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 CROP Hunger Walk. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.