Obituaries
Charles A.G. Twitchell
Charles A.G. “AG” Twitchell, age 89, of Charlotte, died on March 31, 2026. He was born on June 16, 1936, the son of Ford Murray Twitchell and Enid Geisenhaver Twitchell.
AG was the quintessential businessman whose career spanned decades and left a lasting mark on the Charlotte community. He began his professional life selling cars at Fowler’s Chevrolet, later moving into insurance sales, and ultimately finding his true calling in real estate. As the owner of his own real estate company for more than 40 years. AG helped hundreds of families find their homes and built a reputation rooted in integrity, dedication, and an unwavering work ethic.
He ran his business alongside the love of his life, his wife Linda Mary Steward Twitchell, to whom he was married for more than 55 years. Linda preceded him in death, and AG often credited her as both his greatest partner and greatest support.
AG was a devoted supporter of Potterville athletics and community life. A Potterville graduate himself, his four children also graduated from Potterville. He spent countless years cheering on his children and grandchildren at sporting events and was a true Potterville Viking. He was honored as the oldest living Potterville alumnus in attendance at the last year’s alumni banquet.
AG and Linda shared a love of golf and casino trips, particularly traveling to Las Vegas. One of AG’s favorite memories was driving their motor home across the country along Route 66, a trip he often described as one of his most cherished adventures. He was an avid fan of MSU sports, enjoying hunting in his early years and had a love of cars.
AG was actively engaged in civic service and community leadership. He was a longtime member of the Charlotte Kiwanis Club, a member and recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from the Charlotte Jaycees and served as Past President of the Eaton Intermediate School District, the Tri-County board of Realtors, and the Charlotte Kiwanis Club. In recognition of his dedication to real estate, he was honored as Michigan Association of REALTORS Realtor of the Year in 1974 and 1979.
AG is survived by his daughters, Candy (John) Vertalka of Dewitt, Carrie (Kent) McConnell of Charlotte, his son, Chris (Sharon) Twitchell of Lansing and Connie Twitchell Dueweke of Virginia; 12 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; one great-great granddaughter; and brothers and sisters-in-law. He was preceded in death by his wife Linda; parents Ford and Enid; sister Mary Jo Twitchell Gorsuch; and granddaughter Elizabeth “Betsy” Lowe.
Friends are encouraged to support AG’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Monday, April 6, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. Funeral services were Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Laura Cooper officiating. Interment will take place at Dimondale Cemetery in Dimondale, Michigan. 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 AG’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Potterville Masonic Lodge, 4925 Royston Rd, Potterville, MI 48876. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Mark Noel Tebo
Mark Noel Tebo passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of April 2, 2026. He was born August 25, 1934, in Gros Cap, Michigan, the son of Francis C. and Rita C. (LeBlanc/White) Thibault/Tebo. Raised in a two-room cabin on family land in St. Ignace, Mark was reared by parents who had deep roots on the frontier of Michigan and French-Quebec.
At some point during WWII the Tebos moved with their five children to Delray Beach, Florida for recuperation after an injury. It was at this time that Mark fell in love with the ocean and Florida. Mark excelled academically as well as athletically, lettering in baseball and basketball in school. His love of sports continued with roller skating, community softball, and church league basketball throughout the years. In addition to a love of sports, he also was a self-taught landscape artist as well as singer.
On June 20, 1954, Mark married his “one and only love” – Bonnie Jean, affectionately known as “Bean.” Bonnie and Mark were married for 68 years, enjoying church choir, Barbershop Quartet, motorcycling, card club, karaoke, and building their dream home at George Lake in Traverse City. Mark’s “go to” musical artists being old “Frank” and “Dean.”
During his life Mark had many careers: policeman, insurance sales, county employee, furniture maker, and carpentry for which we all remember his many “projects.” Besides his hobbies, Mark also served as an elder on the tribal council of the Mackinac Band of Chippewa and Ottawa Indians, the historically recognized Mackinac Band of his ancestors.
Mark is survived by his daughters; Debra Kingdon (Richard) and Karen Pelletier (Richard); four grandchildren, Jennifer Rauls (Jody), Jason Trumble (Nora), Mark Jones, and Kristen Brekke (Sean); six great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter.
Mark was preceded in death by his parents; all seven siblings: Francis Orville, Lilalee Hazel Valentine, Joyce Ann, Edgar, Benita, Lawrence Elton and Cheri Anna; and his grandson, Stephen (Grace) Michael Jones.
A graveside celebration of life will be held at Maple Hill Cemetery, to be announced for a future summer 2026 date.
Those desiring may make contributions in Mark’s honor to: Hazel Findlay Nursing Home, 1101 S. Scott Rd., St. Johns, MI 48879.
Often dreaming of flying with the birds, Mark would wake his beloved, Bonnie, to tell her of his travels. Today, Mark has earned his Heavenly wings and soars with the Eagles. Fly high dad/grandpa.
To view Mark’s obituary online or to leave condolences for the family, please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com
The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.
Janet Louise Rockafellar
Janet Louise Rockafellar, was born May 28, 1940, and died March 14, 2026.
Janet was born to Curtis Wilson Rockafellar and Alberta Mae (Green) Rockafellar who owned and worked a family farm of 240 acres in Eaton County, Michigan. The heart of the farm was the grand Victorian house of brick that was built by her grandparents in 1886, replete with servants’ quarters. Because they ultimately weren’t the type of people who felt the need to show off and preferred to attend to daily chores themselves, no servants took residence.
The farm thrived and was a center of activity for the community as Curtis and Alberta were fun-loving and reliable friends to all. Janet inherited their nature but never took to farm work, though she did ride a horse and raised chickens for spending money. Her love of learning led to her to be the Valedictorian of her class at Vermontville High School, and she went on to attend Michigan State. Upon graduating early with a teaching certificate and fluency in German, she married a forestry major she met there, Alan Lee Fowler.
They remained married for nearly 25 years, and in that time, they lived in Athens, Ohio; Richmond, Virginia; and Louisville, Kentucky. Janet taught a couple years, raised her daughter while working part-time, then was accepted into the T. C. Williams School of Law at the University of Richmond in the 1970s. She stood out not only as a woman law student, but also as an older enrollee at age 35, both unusual qualities at the time. There, she earned the nickname “Ace” for her hard work and high marks. She spent the remainder of her career at National City Bank in Louisville as a Vice President of the Trust Department.
Because Janet rarely placed limits on herself, she enjoyed a wide range of talents and accomplishments such as hosting a radio show as a teen, serving as Chair of the Senior Bar for the state of Kentucky, converting to Judaism, performing in The Women at the Virginia Museum, and annually portrayed Woodsy Owl at the state fair’s Virginia Forestry booth in a sweltering vinyl costume.
Janet always bore the unpretentious values of her family farm and home. Despite benefiting from the advantages of a loving family, intelligence, natural beauty, and an advanced education, she never considered herself better than anyone else. She served others quietly over her many decades by teaching women prisoners to read; supporting visual artists of the LGBTQ, Black, and Jewish communities; serving as a decorated long-time volunteer at Jewish Hospital; housing visiting Juneteenth actors; teaching immigrants English; donating to dozens of causes; teaching Sunday School at the Unitarian Church; and taking in a few stray cats.
In addition to her many friends, Janet leaves behind her daughter Alexandra Fowler Rockafellar (Brentwood, Tennessee); grandchildren Michael Alan Palmaccio (Seattle, Washington) and Madeleine Rockafellar Palmaccio with her husband Michael Caizzi (New York City); a sister Judy Leone Moore (Lansing, Michigan); and five nieces and nephews.
Janet died peacefully in her bedroom at Canterfield of Franklin in Brentwood, Tennessee, due to complications of Parkinson’s. Family will gather for a small memorial in her hometown of Vermontville, Michigan, to celebrate her remarkable life that was lived with joy and curiosity every day. In lieu of flowers, you are invited to donate to the charity of your choice or to smiletrain.org which was dear to her.
Wherever she is, Janet hopes you are having fun today.
Sharon Marie Lettimore
Sharon Marie Lettimore, 71, of Charlotte, a caring woman who always came to the aid of others, died March 27, 2026. Sharon was born September 10, 1954, in Lansing, Michigan, to Alfred Wayne and Shirley Frances (Burger) Kill. Sharon, the oldest of eight children, carried the responsibilities of that role with grace from an early age. She learned patience, strength, and how to care deeply for others – qualities that became the foundation of her life. These traits shaped the way she loved and supported those around her, always putting others before herself.
Sharon found her lifelong partner in Ed, who became her constant source of love and companionship. Together, they shared 38 wonderful years. Becoming a mother was one of Sharon’s greatest joys, and she poured her heart into raising her children with the same steadiness, warmth, and resilience that defined her. She also found joy in life’s simple pleasures – singing karaoke, listening to her favorite music by Patsy Cline, riding the motorcycle with Ed, and spending time laughing and making memories with family and friends.
Sharon built a career as a bartender and bar manager, where she earned the affectionate title of “the boss.” She will be remembered for her fierce loyalty, her unwavering support for those she loved, and her fearless honesty. Sharon never sought attention for herself, instead focusing her energy on caring for others — including her beloved “fur babies,” whom she nurtured throughout their lives and lovingly honored even after they were gone. Her legacy is one of compassion, strength, and devotion. The greatest way to honor Sharon is to continue to love and care for one another as she did – to stand together, show up for each other, share laughter, and hold close the bonds she worked so hard to protect.
Sharon is survived by her husband, Edward; children, Michael (Janine) Collier, Charlene (AJ) McLain, Charity (Wayne) Devenbaugh, and Jessica Wethy; grandchildren, Trey, Austin, Jordon, Trent, Chelsea, Bryce, April, Gatlin, Degan, Ava, Addy, Emma, Alexis, Morgon, and Allie; great-grandchildren, Dallas, Aubrianna, Ellianna, Alethea, Lahna, Brookson, Vinny, Luka, and Stetson; and siblings, Penny (Roy) Therrien, John (Gari) Kill, Jeff (Trudy) Kill, Martin (Connie) Kill, Amy (Pat) Gardner, Steve (Lisa) Kill, and Lisa Meyers. She was predeceased by her grandson Bailey, and her parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Sharon’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Tuesday, March 31, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m., and Wednesday, April 1, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon. Funeral services were Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at noon at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with her cousin, Jeffrey Burger officiating. Interment will follow at Maple Hill 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 Sharon’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the family through Pray Funeral Home. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Ronald Lee Joppie
Ronald “Ron” Lee Joppie, age 75, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly on March 27, 2026. He was born on April 25, 1950, in Charlotte, Michigan, to Russell and Janice Joppie.
Ron was a proud graduate of Ferris State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Marketing in 1972. During his time at Ferris State, he was also a member of Delta Sigma Pi, a professional business fraternity that reflected his early commitment to leadership and professional growth. He went on to dedicate 45 years to the retail furniture industry, building lasting relationships and earning a reputation for integrity, loyalty, and hard work. For 35 of those years, Ron was a co-owner of Christensen’s Furniture in Charlotte, where he was a well-known and respected member of the community. He later continued his career at Talsma Furniture, retiring in 2019.
Ron shared a remarkable love story with his wife, Diane, whom he met at seventh grade camp. Their relationship grew into a beautiful 53-year marriage filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support for one another.
Outside of his career, Ron found joy in the things he loved most. He was a devoted Michigan State Spartans fan, rarely missing an opportunity to cheer on his team. He also had a lifelong passion for cars and enjoyed everything about them. Ron cherished traveling, especially to tropical destinations where he could relax and create lasting memories with his family.
He is survived by his loving wife, Diane Joppie; his daughters, Rebecca (Christopher) Melton and Lisa (Shane) Davis; and his beloved grandchildren, Guiliana and Andrew Melton, and Ethan and Evelynn Davis. He is also survived by his brothers, Richard (Donna) Joppie and Randy (Lisa) Joppie; his sister and brother-in-law, Alice and Dan Hayes; as well as many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Janice Joppie, and his brothers, William and Jerry Joppie.
Visitation was held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, April 1, followed by the funeral service at 11 a.m., with a luncheon to follow, at Rockford United Methodist Church, 159 Maple St., Rockford, Michigan 49341.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made toward the future care and support of Guiliana Melton, who was very close to Ron’s heart. Contributions can be made through Ugiftable using gift code P03-J9X at: https://www.ugiftable.com/.
Terry Wayne Reed
On January 13, 2026, Terry Wayne Reed passed away with his beloved dog Kasey by his side. Terry was born September 4, 1967.
Following his graduation from Charlotte High School in 1986, Terry enlisted in the Navy serving at Selfridge Airbase and Great Lakes Naval Base. Terry never met a stranger, so he is missed by many, especially his dog Kasey, partner Jenny Fisher, daughter Alexis Reed, brother Doug, sister Jan and brother-in-law Mike Matsumoto, neices Samantha (Eric) White and Kimi Matsumoto.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, April 12 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Charlotte American Legion, 1000 W. Lawrence.
Judith Elaine Wisinski
Judith Elaine Wisinski, 80, of Okemos, a caring and giving woman, died March 28, 2026. Judith was born on March 10, 1946, in Charlotte, Michigan, to Renold Lawrence and Thelma Naomi (Wright) Beals. Judith was a kind, caring, and giving person who was always generous with her time. She found joy in helping others and being there whenever she was needed, quietly making a difference in the lives of those around her. In 1993, she married Leonard Wisinski, and together they shared 28 wonderful years filled with love, companionship, and cherished memories.
Judith loved to hang out with her cat, playing cards and games and collecting cats and owls. She enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially alongside Leonard. The two loved taking trips to the Smoky Mountains, where they could relax, take in the beauty of nature, and simply enjoy each other’s company. Those moments together, whether at home or away, brought her great happiness and reflected the deep bond they shared.
Judith is survived by her stepchildren, Patricia Anne Taylor of Haslett, and Kenneth Winsinski of Ann Arbor; and grandchildren, Marrissa, Zach, and Michael. She was predeceased by her husband, Leonard; daughter, April Moon; sister, Linda Winters; and her parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Judith’s family by attending her Graveside Service or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Graveside Service were on Friday, April 3, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Craig Edward Bannister, Jr.
Craig Edward Bannister, Jr. of Macomb County passed away on March 18, 2026. He was born May 21, 1993 at the Camp Lejeune, North Carolina Navel Medical Center. He was 32 years old. He is survived by his parents Lisa and Doug Meyers and Craig and Dawn Bannister. Craig Jr. gave a lasting impression to all those that he met, and he will be dearly missed. If you have a moment, please send a prayer.
Robert John Parker
Robert John Parker passed away peacefully at his home in Olivet, Michigan, on March 27, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born on February 15, 1936, in Battle Creek, Michigan, the son of Henry and Mary (Shaub) Parker.
A 1953 graduate of Marshall High School, Bob’s commitment to service extended beyond the classroom. He proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard, exemplifying his deep sense of duty and patriotism. Following his military service, Bob worked for Stanley Packing as a butcher, Behnke Plumbing; and later pursued a long and distinguished career as a heavy equipment operator for over 30 years, working with Bailey Excavating and Mills Excavating. His work ethic and skill were well respected by colleagues and friends alike.
Bob was a true farmer at heart. He grew up on the family farm and would go on to work in and around agriculture his entire life. After retirement his love for the land continued on in his care for his lawn and gardens. On August 13, 1955, he married the love of his life, Jeannine Rule at the Central Christian Church in Battle Creek.
Bob’s passions extended into his leisure time, where he found joy in hunting, fishing, and crafting unique items from deer antlers. Gardening, camping, and traveling were also among his cherished pastimes, reflecting his love for nature and adventure.
A loving and devoted man, Bob cherished his family and was an active member of the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church. His presence brought comfort and strength to those around him, and his legacy is one of kindness, resilience, and unwavering devotion.
Bob is survived by his wife of 70 years, Jeannine; daughter, Lynda (Tim) Frantz of Charlotte; son, Gregory (Angela) Parker of Charlotte; granddaughters, Kelly Kelly, Lauren (Brian) St. John, Catie (Mike) Boring, Kristi (Trevor) Love, Grace (Evan) Boehmer; 10 great grandchildren; sister-in-law, Margaret Parker; brother-in-law, Tom Pharr; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Victor Parker; sister, Diane Pharr; and brothers, Fred (Berniece) Parker, Charles Parker.
Funeral services were held on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church with Pastor John Messner officiating. The family received friends on Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service at the church Tuesday. Private burial will take place at Oakridge Cemetery in Marshall.
Those desiring may make contributions in Bob’s honor to the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church 210 E. Lawrence Ave., Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Bob’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
David H. Minger
It is with a deep sense of both sadness and gratitude for a life well lived that we announce the peaceful passing of David H. Minger on March 27, 2026, after a prolonged period of declining health.
Dave was born on June 20, 1943, in Three Rivers, Michigan, to Irvin (Tiny) F. and Maxine Minger. Dave’s journey through life was marked by unwavering faith and a dedication to family and community that touched all who knew him.
Dave was a proud graduate of Mendon High School, class of 1962. His career began at Simpson Paper Mill in Vicksburg, Michigan, where he honed his skills as a millwright-machinist and later as a pipe fitter. It was during his tenure at Hydromatic in Three Rivers, MI, that Dave felt a calling to pastoral ministry in the United Methodist Church. This calling led him to pursue higher education with a B.A. from Western Michigan University and an M.Div. from United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio.
Dave started his pastoral ministry at Nottawa United Methodist Church and continued to serve various congregations, including Athens UMC, Springport and Lee Center United UMCs, Portage Prairie UMC, Emmanuel UMC in Traverse City, and Old Mission Peninsula UMC. Even after his official retirement in 2006, Dave’s commitment to ministry remained strong as he continued to serve Pleasant Lake UMC, Jackson Zion UMC, and Griffith UMC. On September 1, 1962, at Mendon United Methodist Church, Dave married Charlene Blanchard, the love of his life. Together they shared 51 years, welcoming three children and five grandchildren. After Char’s passing, Dave married Janice Phillips on July 3, 2015, who survives him.
Dave’s legacy is carried on by his children, Stacy R. Minger, Cathy M. (James) Merrifield, and David M. (Noel) Minger, along with his stepson, Michael Phillips. His grandchildren, Caleb (Asia Artress) Merrifield, Jacob (Hayley) Minger, Kelsey (Jordan) Badder, Jillian (Jacob Gallette) Merrifield, and Olivia Ann Minger, remember him as a loving and devoted grandfather. Dave was predeceased by his parents, Irvin (Tiny) F. Minger and Maxine Minger Clark, his granddaughter, Olivia Ann Minger, as well as his sister and brother-in-law, Darlene and Firmer Clarey. An avid outdoorsman, Dave found joy in hunting, fishing, and golfing, especially when accompanied by friends.
A Service of Death and Resurrection was held on April 1, 2026, at noon at Robbins United Methodist Church, 6419 Bunker Road, Eaton Rapids, MI 48827. Visitation at the church will began at 10 a.m. and extended to the start of the service at noon. In lieu of flowers, donations in Dave’s memory can be made to Eaton Rapids Camp meeting or Robbins United Methodist Church.
Dave’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff of Eaton County Rehabilitation Services, especially Chelssie, Avery, and the Harmony Way team, for their compassionate care. Special thanks are also extended to Mills Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, for their kind assistance. As per his wishes, Dave’s body has been cremated, and interment will take place at a later date in Mendon, Michigan, under the care of the Eickhoff Funeral Home. To leave condolences for the family please visit our website, www.millsfuneral.com.