Obituaries
Robert Lyn Spencer
Robert “Bob” Lyn Spencer, a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend to many, passed away at home on June 14, 2025, at the age of 68. Born and raised in Lansing, Michigan, he graduated from Lansing Eastern High School in 1975 before embarking on a lifelong career in the food service industry. The centerpiece of his professional life was the 28 years he spent serving the students and staff of Olivet College (now the University of Olivet.) His work ethic, loyalty, and warm spirit made him an irreplaceable part of the campus community, where he was beloved by colleagues and students alike. He was a man of deep faith, who loved Jesus with all his heart and never hesitated to share that love with others. His strong Christian values were evident in the way he lived and connected with everyone around him, he was truly a stranger to no one and had a gift for making friends wherever he went. A proud father and grandfather, he never missed an opportunity to talk about how much he loved and admired his son. That pride only grew with the birth of his grandson, who brought immense joy to his life. He was a passionate sports fan, particularly devoted to Michigan State football and basketball. He could recall decades of sports statistics and highlights never missing a chance to discuss the latest game. Though he did not visit often, one of his favorite places was Hartwick Pines State Park, a special spot he once shared with his family and son and remembered fondly throughout his life. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, laughter, and unwavering faith. His family finds comfort in knowing that he is now in heaven, and they look forward to the day they will be reunited with him.
Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Robert B. and Betty Spencer, and his brother, Doug (Robin) Spencer, and his precious grand puppies.
He leaves behind his son, Robert David (Desiree) Spencer; his grandson, Robert Charles “Charlie” Spencer; his siblings, Debbie Parker, David (Tina) Spencer, Tommy Spencer; former wife, Holly Milliman; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Calling hours will be held Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Kempf Family Funeral Home in Marshall, Michigan. In Lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made out the University of Olivet or Samaritan’s Purse.
Theresa Ann Trowbridge
Theresa Ann Trowbridge, age 66, passed peacefully from earthly life into the loving arms of her Savior on June 4, 2025, in Dimondale, Michigan. She was born on October 6, 1958, in Charlotte, Michigan, to Buddy and Barbara (White) Trowbridge.
Theresa received her formal education at Maple Valley Schools, complemented later by an art course at Stanford Art Institute, which ignited her creative passions. Her artistic talents were highlighted in her love for drawing and painting, and she found joy in expressing her feelings through poetry. Many have memories of her warm laughter and great sense of humor that filled the lives of those fortunate enough to know her.
She was an example of love and generosity and deeply proud of her family, whom she cherished fiercely. Theresa’s nurturing spirit was evident in the way she shared her affection with those around her. She will be remembered for her thoughtfulness, particularly in the way she celebrated her family’s milestones by sending timely birthday cards and gifts, ensuring that each loved one felt special and valued.
In her years when health permitted, Theresa found spiritual comfort attending Real Life Church in Charlotte, where her deeply grounded faith in God guided her life. She was a kind and giving person, and her memory will live on in the hearts of her loved ones, who take comfort in knowing she touched their lives profoundly.
Theresa is survived by her daughter Dena and son-in-law Lawrence Lumley; her beloved grandchildren Katelyn Trowbridge, Harper Channing Lumley, Maggie Lumley, and Oliver Lumley; as well as her great-grandchildren Aniston and Jaxson. She is also survived by her siblings Rodney and Carmen Trowbridge, Debra and Allan Steward, Suzette Anthony, Ryan and Jessica Trowbridge, Tana and Jim Miller; alongside her several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Buddy and Barbara Trowbridge; her son Channing Trowbridge; her brother-in-law Rick Anthony; and her nephew David Primm.
A celebration of Theresa’s life was held on June 14, 2025 at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Pastor Andy Shaver officiating.
Those desiring to make contributions in Theresa’s memory may do so by donating to the family to help with final expenses.
The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.
Laura Joy Harris
Laura Joy Harris (Chupp), 61, of Charlotte, MI went home to the Lord on June 14, 2025. Laura was born in Battle Creek, MI to Howard R. and Barbara (Wanger) Chupp. She was a loving wife, mother, grandma, great-grandma, sister, aunt, and cousin. A graduate of Bellevue High School in 1982, Laura was always very social and enjoyed working with the public. As a bartender at CharLanes bowling alley for over 19 years and later worked at Family Dollar in Eaton Rapids as Manager/Assistant Manager, she made many friends and enjoyed the social aspect of her jobs. Everything Laura did, whether it was family gatherings, cook-outs with friends, baking, gardening and canning different fruits and vegetables, she did it with a heart of gold and was always finding ways to help others. She loved to collect nick-nacks, cross stitch, bowl, and spend time outdoors (especially at the family log cabin in Onaway). Her grandkids meant the world to Laura, she loved spending lots of time with them.
Laura is survived by her husband of 25 years, Peter Harris; children, Robert Graham, Tiffany (Jeff) Graham, Jennifer Graham; grandkids, Preston, Barbara, Ivan, Brogain, and Andy; great-grandkids Arieelynn, Paisley, and Kendall; sisters, Lucy (Larry) Potter, Patti (Bill) Blanchard, Gail (Tom) Robinson; mother-in-law, Joan Harris; brothers-in-law, Al (Kelly) Harris and Rocky White; and many nieces and nephews; great nieces and nephes; and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Howard R. and Barbara Chupp; sister, Terry Wilford; brother, Howard (Chip) Chupp; father-in-law, David Harris; and sister-in-law, Tammy White.
Friends and family are encouraged to support Laura’s family by attending services or sharing memories of her on her Tribute Page at www.PrayFuneral.com. A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 28 at St. Mary Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. Visitation will be Friday, June 27, 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. If desired, memorial contributions are suggested to St. Mary Catholic Church. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home.
Paulette Kay DePue
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Paulette Kay DePue, who left us on February 19, 2025, at the age of 79.
She was born on June 10, 1946, in Albion, Michigan. Paulette was a woman of strength, independence, and a big, loving heart. She had a vibrant personality and a deep capacity for caring and touching the lives of many throughout her life.
She was known for her extraordinary warmth, quiet strength, and unwavering love. Her legacy lives on in the values she instilled in her children, grandchildren, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Paulette devoted her life to her family, nurturing us with her kindness, wisdom, and sense of humor. Whether through her home-cooked meals, her comforting words, or the way she made you feel truly seen, she had a special gift for making everyone feel welcome and loved.
Paulette is survived by her daughters, Robin (Robert) Osenbaugh, Billie Joe (Ritchie) Powers; son, Robert (Sandy) Wehr; several grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Dee “Terry” DePue; son, Steven Wehr.
A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, June 28 from 1:00-4:00 p.m. at the Kalamo Township Hall, 8960 Spore Street, Vermontville, Michigan.
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
To view Paulette’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.
Patrick Stephan Smith
Patrick “Pat” Stephan Smith, 66, of Charlotte, passed away on May 21, 2025 at his home. He was born on October 20, 1958 to Roger E. and Etta M. (Johnson) Smith in Charlotte, MI.
Pat was a hard worker, he worked as a sign man, and he was a truck driver for 20 years. He was always working on something, whether it was a truck engine or welding/fabricating something. Pat was very organized, and he tried to take good care of himself, he worked out and he ate healthy. He was a really good brother, and he loved his Momma and Dad and his animals.
Pat is survived by his mother Etta, brother and sisters, Roger (Lorie) Smith, Janet Riffe, Cheryl (Alan) Vercher, Betty (Trevor) Dillon, Teresa (William) Howe; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Roger E. Smith; long time fiancé, Wanda “Lee” Webb; and brother-in-law, George Thomas Riffe II.
Visitation was held Wednesday, May 28, 2025, 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m. at Bellevue Christian Church, 734 W. Capital Ave., Bellevue, MI 49021 the funeral started at 1:00 p.m. at the church with Pastor Danesh Manik officiating.
Burial will take place in Gresham Cemetery in Charlotte.
Memorials are suggested to the American Cancer Society-Fight Pancreatic Cancer. Arrangements have been entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services. Please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guestbook, to share memories and pictures with the family.