Obituaries
William C. Voigt
William C. Voigt, 92, of Hastings MI, formerly of Charlotte, MI died unexpectedly Monday, July 14, 2025 at Pennock Hospital in Hastings, MI. William (Bill) was born on March 5, 1933 to William Adam and Hazel (Conley) Voigt in Detroit, MI. The family, including Bill’s sister and brother, moved to East Lansing, MI in 1938. Bill attended and graduated from the East Lansing school system in 1951. He attended Central Michigan College for a short time prior to enlisting for three years in the U.S. Army. Bill served in Korea during the Korean war before being honorably discharged. He joined The Michigan State Police in early 1956.
Soon after joining the State Police, Bill met, and in December of 1956, married the love of his life Fay Louise Hartman. The couple had five children and began raising them in East Lansing, MI before moving the family to Charlotte in 1971 where all five of the children attended and graduated from school. In 1980, Bill retired from the Michigan State Police as a Captain and First District Commander. He then served as the Eaton County Undersheriff from 1980 through 1990 and also was elected and served as a Charlotte City Councilman for 10 years. In 1990, Bill and Fay moved to Hastings, MI to be closer to their cottage on Thornapple Lake. They also had a winter home in Port Richey, FL. The couple was known for their parties and rousing get-togethers with family and friends. Fay died March 26, 2012 leaving Bill a little rudderless, but he carried on. Bill was a prolific author. He wrote the Criminal Law and Procedure manuals for The Michigan State Police and along with his son William A., wrote a quick reference law manual for The Michigan Sheriff’s Association. In addition, Bill wrote and published 19 fiction novels.
Bill is survived by his five children, William A. and Jean Voigt, Kurt and Darlene Voigt, Theresa Moody, Michelle Walker, and Kevin and Tammy Voigt; as well as 18 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his wife Fay, his parents, his siblings and their spouses John & Karen Voigt and Joan & Gerald Schmidt ;and sons-in-law Tom Moody and Bo Walker.
Per Bill’s instruction, there will be no funeral or visitation. Friends and family were invited to attend a short graveside service at Bethany Cemetery in Morrice, MI at 11:00 a.m. on July 18, 2025.
If desired, memorial donations can be made to: St. Jude Children’s Hospital at stjude.org
The family is in the care of Daniels Funeral Home, Hastings, conveniently located at 1401 North Broadway, Hastings, MI. For further details, please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net.
Albert Sweet
Albert “Al” Sweet, 53 of Atlanta, Michigan died suddenly on July 11, 2025 at his home. He was born in Charlotte, Michigan on August 16, 1971 to Richard and Joyce (Gleason) Sweet. He married Tina (Matarazzo) Sweet on February 17, 2007 and together they celebrated 18 years of marriage before his passing. Together the couple owned and operated Sweet’s 624 & More in Atlanta since 2021. Al was a member of the Michigan Flywheelers in South Haven. He enjoyed tractors, trains, blacksmithing, and anything with an engine. He also enjoyed fishing. He is and will be deeply missed.
Al is remembered by his loving wife, Tina Sweet; mother, Joyce Sweet; children, Keith (Kora) Sweet, Caleb Sweet, Brittany Sweet, Hanna Sweet, Ashley Sweet, Neila Sweet; several grandchildren; siblings, Daniel Hammond, Richard Sweet, Harley Sweet; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard; and his maternal and paternal grandparents.
In accordance with his wishes Al has been cremated. There will be a memorial held in celebration of Al’s life at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to Green Funeral Home. Condolence messages may be sent via our website at www.greenfuneralhomes.com.
Allan Ormond Sine
Allan Ormond Sine, age 66, of Olivet, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025. He was born May 7, 1959, in Marshall, Michigan the son of Robert and Marlene (Herman) Sine. Allan graduated from Olivet High School in 1977. He was a huge Detroit Tigers fan and was always looking forward to the next big game. Allan also enjoyed playing cards with friends, working on cars, and baking. He loved working together with his father on the family farm and had a passion for John Deere Tractors.
Allan is survived by his parents, Bob and Marlene Sine; sister, Carmen Kay (Mike Eisenlohn) Sine; uncle, Richard Sine; aunts, Elaine Tanner, Marie Thompson; good friends, Randy and Marilyn Campbell, Harry Reynolds; several cousins and his special dog, Kaylee.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Janet Sine.
A graveside service was held on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at 2 p.m. at the Lee Center Cemetery located on V Drive N between 21 Mile Road and 22 Mile Road in Lee Township.
Those desiring may make contributions in Allan’s memory to the Eaton County Humane Society 129 N. Main Street, Olivet, MI 49076.
To view Allan’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.
Anna Louise Lewis
Anna Louise Lewis, of Charlotte, was born on June 20, 1928 and passed away on July 13, 2025.
Visitation is Thursday, July 17, 2025, from 6-8:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services are Friday, July 18, at 1:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte.
Ann Louise Milam
Ann Louise Milam of Eaton Rapids, passed away July 6, 2025, at the age of 74. Ann was born in Mason, Michigan on November 14, 1950, the daughter of Richard and Virginia (Appleton) Pifer. She taught Special Education and 3rd grade in Phoenix, Arizona for 32 years before her retirement. Ann and her family moved back to Michigan in 2007 and settled in Eaton Rapids. She loved to garden and always had a beautifully maintained yard. Ann was very sociable and considered herself to be the shen-Ann-igans supervisor. It was never a dull moment when you were in her company. Ann loved her grandchildren above all else and relished any time she got to spend with them.
She is survived by her sons, Jeremy (Renee) Milam of Eaton Rapids, Scott (Chrisanne) Milam of Eaton Rapids; grandchildren, Stephen, Dominic and Mackenzie Milam of Eaton Rapids; brothers, Michael (Marie) Pifer, Steven (Sue) Pifer. Ann was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband, Kent Milam.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in loving memory of Ann Louise Milam. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.
Diane Sue Baum
Diane Sue Baum, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025, at the age of 77. She was born on October 18, 1947, in Charlotte, Michigan. Diane’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven from love, kindness, and a deep concern for others.
Graduating from Charlotte High School in 1965, Diane would go on to proudly work at numerous jobs throughout the community. She owned and operated the Dusty Rose Boutique in Charlotte, where her flair for fashion and her genuine warmth welcomed all who entered. Her boutique was not just a store; it was a sanctuary where friendships blossomed and where her kindness left a lasting impression on every customer. Diane had the remarkable ability to make people feel valued and understood, a true testament to her compassionate spirit.
Beyond her career, Diane was a passionate collector of Coca-Cola memorabilia, finding joy in the history and nostalgia behind each piece. Diane was also a magnificent cook, making every holiday meal feel like a cherished event. Christmas, in particular, held a special place in her heart, where she created a warm atmosphere brimming with love, laughter, and delicious feasts for her family.
Diane had an undeniable talent for sewing, crafting beautiful garments that displayed her creativity and skill. Her interests extended to jewelry, where she reveled in the beauty of various pieces, each with its own story to tell. Shopping was another joy for Diane, where she always found the perfect gift to share with loved ones, embodying her thoughtful nature.
Family was at the core of Diane’s being. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, cherishing every moment spent with them. Their laughter and smiles were the highlights of her days, and she took great pride in being a doting grandmother. One of her favorite traditions was her weekly evening dinners with her granddaughter Malorie—precious time filled with heartfelt conversation, laughter, and love. Diane also loved spending time at the family cabin near Higgins Lake, where the beauty of nature mirrored the warmth that surrounded her.
Diane is survived by her husband Jerry; sons, Michael (Cheri) Kiplinger, Darren (Cassandra) Kiplinger; step-sons, Todd (Shanda) Baum, Troy Baum; grandchildren, Michael “Mickey” Kiplinger, Kyle Kiplinger, Lane Kiplinger, Malorie Kiplinger; five great-grandchildren; sister, Toni (Steve) Wildern, and several nieces, nephews, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Joyce Elaine Johnson; father, Gordon “Gordie” Johnson; and special aunt, Donna Johnson.
Funeral services were held on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Laura Cooper officiating. The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Maple Hill Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contributions in Diane’s memory to Shriners Children’s Hospitals at www.shrinerschildrens.org.
Phillip Laverne Hebenstreit
Phillip Laverne Hebenstreit, age 72, of Olivet, passed away Friday, July 4, 2025. He was born December 25, 1952, in Battle Creek the son of Clarence and Martha (Pierce) Hebenstreit. Phil went on to graduate from Olivet High School in 1972. On August 29, 1981, he married Deanna Lynn Griffin in Charlotte. Phil enjoyed many things in life but his family was of the utmost importance to him. He enjoyed working with his hands and was always working on one project or the next. Phil could often be found working in his yard. But when he was not busy at home or work, he would be out hunting for his next treasure at local yard sales or Goodwill. Playing games was an enjoyable pastime for him and his family. Skip bo, Solitaire, and Yahtzee were a few of his favorites.
Phil is survived by his wife of 43 years, Deanna; children, Cristina (Tony) Owens, Mathew (Sarah) Hebenstreit, Aaron Hebenstreit, Nathan Hebenstreit, Phillip Hebenstreit, Kristy (Scott) Huber, Kari (Chris) Aleman; grandchildren, Rebekah, Bethanie, Noah, Patricia, Emilie, Gracie, Faith; brother, Clarence “Butch” (Rebecca) Hebenstreit; sister, Peggy (Roger) Canterbury; sister-in-law, Iris Hebenstreit; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence Hebenstreit; mother and step-father, Martha and Mayn Cortright; and siblings, Sam Hebenstreit, Sally Moscoso, and Mike Hebenstreit.
The family received friends for a time of visitation on Friday, July 11, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.
Those desiring to make contributions in Phil’s memory may do so to the charity of their choice.
To view Phil’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Jack A. Wells
Jack A. Wells (Jaws), 74, of Vermontville, MI passed away on February 15, 2025. He was born on July 20, 1950 to Kennth and Marianna (Russell) Wells. He enlisted into the Army at the age of 17 in 1967 serving in Germany and Vietnam until his honorable discharge in 1970. Upon his return he married the love of his life, Dorleen A. (Richardson), they had two children and many years together until her passing in December of 2022.
He worked many different jobs finally landing at Citizens Elevator, upon retiring he enjoyed times with his wife, family, and dog Stinker. He loved tending his yard. He was grumpy, loving, and always hardworking man and very proud of serving his country, and quietly loving all around him. He was also very proud of his family.
Jack is survived by his daughter, Janell (Wells) Smith; Son, Russell Wells; granddaughter, Karlee Wells; great granddaughter, Emelia Martinez; brother, Dennis (Donna) Wells; sister, Joyce Bristol; and sister-in-law, Patricia Wells.
He was preceded in death by his parents and parent-in-laws; brother, David Wells; brother-in-law, Jerry Bristol; and his favorite niece, Julie Parish.
Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers can be given to the family or your local VFW Post.
Memorial services will be held on July 21, 2025 at 3 p.m. at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Battle Creek, with a dinner following at 4 p.m. at Battle Creek Friends Church, 1305 Olive St., Battle Creek, MI 49014.
Marion Ellis Taylor
We are saddened to share with you the passing of Marion Ellis Taylor, 87, most recently of Charlotte, Michigan. Marion was an employee of American One Credit Union of Jackson at the time of his retirement. Prior to that, he was the President of State Employees Credit Union.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Hazel Grace (Farrand) Taylor Wichert (Ernie) and Rowatt Stewart Taylor; his eldest brother, Paul Taylor; his eldest sister, Pauline Taylor Weide Parsons (Melvin Weide) Richard Parsons; his brother, Malcolm; niece, Rebecca Potter; great nephew, Stewart Tiffany; brother and sister-in-law, Lawrence and Elaine Taylor; brother, Dean Taylor (Maxie); sister and brother-in law, Grace (Taylor) Sanderson and Richard Sanderson; and first wife Marilyn Leona (Moffet) Taylor.
Marion has left behind his son, Mark Taylor (Mark Benjamin) and daughter, Melisia Taylor. Marion also leaves behind his current wife, Linda Kay (Hunt) Taylor; stepsons, Jamie Medler (Mary), Garret Medler (Cheryl), and Zachary Medler (Brandy); seven granddaughters; one grandson; one great-grandson; two great-granddaughters; sister-in-law, Evelyn (Malcolm) Taylor; brothers and sisters-in-law, Leif and Carol Carlson, Susan and Larry Weismiller, and Jeff and Kollen Hunt; along with his numerous nieces and nephews.
Marion, born in Lakeview in 1938, grew up on a farm in Blanchard and spent part of his youth in Greenville where he graduated from high school. He graduated from Ferris State Institute in 1960 with a degree in Accounting and Administration. He loved a good card game and along with his siblings, could be found in a heated competition.
Marion was enlisted in the National Guard from 1961-1967 and loved being an MP with the 46th Military Police Company with the Provost Marshall Division. His credit union involvement began in 1965 when he started working at State Employees Credit Union. Marion’s credit union participation expanded to membership on the Lansing Chapter of Credit Union’s Executive Committee; he held various positions in the Michigan Credit Union League; additional positions with the Credit Union National Association, the Central Credit Union of Michigan Board of Directors, and the Association of State Employees Credit Unions. Marion also devoted time to his community by serving on the Lansing Zoning Board of Appeals, and The Beekman Center Shelter Workshop. In his free time, he enjoyed snowmobiling and boating, hunting and being at his cottage. In addition, Marion adored cruises with his wife Linda.
Marion received several calls and visits from friends and former colleagues recently and for that, was very thankful for the caring shown.
Friends are encouraged to support Marion’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation will be from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, July 18, 2025 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at Pray Funeral Home. 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 Marion’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 American Cancer Society. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Michael O’Reilly Colegrove
Michael “Mike” O’Reilly Colegrove, of Charlotte, MI, died June 30, 2025 at the tender age of 35. Mike was the son of David and Donna Colegrove, a 2008 graduate of Charlotte High School, and a very loving young man that would do anything for people he cared about. Mike loved everything basketball, whether it was watching or playing, and he played for over ten years as a member of his Special Olympics basketball team. He also enjoyed drawing, going to the races with his dad, watching all kinds of sports (especially when his nieces or nephews were playing), and road trips with his family. He was especially proud of being able to help on Mission Trips through First Baptist Church.
Mike is survived by his parents, David and Donna Colegrove; siblings, Sally (Tim) Steward, Melissa Perry, Rick (Jennifer) Colegrove, Faith Colegrove, Darien Colegrove, Brandon (Jenn) Colegrove, Karissa Colegrove; and many loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Friends are encouraged to support Mike’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Monday, July 7, 12 noon – 2:00 p.m. with Funeral services following at 2:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Ryan Manning 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 Mike’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 Area 8 Special Olympics. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.