Obituaries
Thelma Louise Mayhew
Thelma Louise Mayhew, age 86, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 29, 2024. She was born February 25, 1938, in Anna, Illinois, the daughter of Ralph and Myrtle McLane. At the age of 4 years, the family moved to Eaton County where she attended Olivet schools. Growing up on the family farm was special to Thelma with fond memories of playing in the barn with her sister Jewel. She also enjoyed baton twirling in her younger years and continued this with the Olivet High School Marching Band. On December 18, 1955, Thelma married James Allen Mayhew and together they raised three daughters. The pride and joy of Thelma’s life was her family. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and was always concerned about the needs of others before her own. Thelma enjoyed her working years as a bank teller and hobbies including sewing, collecting glassware, and scrapbooking. The family has many special memories enjoying the home on Duck Lake. James and Thelma spent their retirement years in Clearwater, Florida. The loss of Thelma will be keenly felt by her family and friends.
Thelma is survived by her daughters, Dawn Marie Mayhew of Rockford Michigan, Teresa Louise Mathis of Cleveland, Ohio, Rachelle Lee Mayhew of Grayling, Michigan; grandchildren, Brooke Geddie, Cody McMichael, Martha Holben, Stuart Holben, Cameron Mathis, Bryton Mathis, Kimberlin Mayhew; 17 great-grandchildren; sister, Jewel Converse, and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents Ralph and Myrtle McLane; husband, James Mayhew, and six older siblings.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, August 5, 2024, at 2 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Laura Cooper officiating. The family will receive friends on Monday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the funeral home just prior to the service. Burial will take place at Maple Hill Cemetery. Following the burial a luncheon will be held at Camp Frances 1501 S. Cochran Road, Charlotte, MI 48813.
Those desiring may make contributions in Thelma’s memory to the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org
To view Thelma’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com
Diane Ardythe Trethewey
Diane Ardythe Trethewey, a generously devoted woman with fierce love for her family and friends, passed away peacefully in her home on July 26, 2024. Diane, 78, of Charlotte was born June 10, 1946 in Ironwood, Michigan to Llyod Nylund and Ellen (Lassila) Nylund. Diane graduated from Ironwood High School in 1964 and worked at the University of Michigan for 2 years. The following two years, Diane worked for the Gogebic County Prosecutors Office. Diane was then hired as an Administrative Assistant for the State of Michigan in 1967 and retired after 30 years of service. After retirement, Diane volunteered for the Eaton County Sheriff’s Posse and continued to work part-time at several jobs including Allstate Insurance, Sweets Trucking, and caregiving for various hospice programs. Describing her career, Diane wrote “I can look back and say that I loved my job… It was a joy to help people and be there when they needed my help.”
In August of 1968, Diane married Richard W. Trethewey (Teach) and the two began a family together. Diane wrote “my family and friends are my life. I cherish all of the fond memories I have.” One of Diane’s proudest accomplishments was her granddaughters. She enjoyed the summer months when she could attend family outings and sit around the bonfire storytelling, both true stories and exaggerated ones. In her leisure time, Diane enjoyed caring for, riding, and showing her horses at the County Fair. Diane was also a Sheltie breeder and handler for many years. As a lover of Christmas, Diane always put together memorable holiday seasons for her family.
Diane is survived by her children, Christie Trethewey, Richard Trethewey, and Jeff Oberlin; granddaughters Destiny Trethewey and Patrisha Oberlin; and sister Marla (Steve Bunt) Kangas. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Richard W. Trethewey, and brother, Dennis Nylund.
Friends are encouraged to support Diane’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. The family received visitors from noon to 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 1 at Pray Funeral Home. A Memorial Service followed at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. If desired memorial contributions may be made to Eaton Community Palliative Care. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Mark Allen Grimwood
Mark Allen Grimwood, an outdoorsman and beloved family man, passed away on Monday, July 29, 2024, surrounded by family and the compassionate staff at Stoneleigh Residence & Hospice in Lansing. Mark, who was 70 years old, was born on New Year’s Day in 1954 in Sheridan, MI, to Charles and Anna (Henry) Grimwood.
A proud Charlotte native, Mark graduated from Charlotte High School in 1972 and went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Marine Corps. After his discharge, he dedicated 30 years of his life to working at General Motors Fisher Body shop, retiring in 2006. His passion for learning led him to earn an associate’s degree from LCC, after which he took on various enjoyable jobs to stay active.
Mark was a handyman at heart, finding joy in home improvement projects and landscaping his yard. His sense of community spirit was evident through his memberships with the Charlotte Optimist Club and the American Legion Post 42. Mornings were a special time for Mark, as he cherished sipping coffee on his front porch, admiring the scenic views and wildlife. He also found great pleasure in fishing, hunting, and ballroom dancing. His deepest joy came from spending time with his family, whom he held dear.
Mark leaves behind his children, M. Travis (Katie) Grimwood, Erica Palm, and Jodi (Scott) Ringen; his grandchildren, Garrett, Evan, Caleb, Solomon, Alana, Isaac, Gavin, Tessa, Hunter, Abby, Emily, and Brooke; his siblings, Chuck (Linda) Grimwood, Phil (Vee) Grimwood, and Joann (Jerry) Taylor, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents and his infant brother, John.
Mark will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of love, kindness, and joy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Stoneleigh Residence & Hospice in Lansing for the extraordinary care and compassion you provided to Dad during his final days. Your dedication and kindness brought comfort to him and our family, and we are deeply grateful for the support you offered.
Celebration of Life service will be held at the American Legion Post 42, 1000 W. Lawrence Ave, Charlotte, MI on Saturday, September 14, 2024, from 4-7:00 p.m. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Charles Eugene Cook
Charles Eugene “Chuck” Cook entered this world at 5:30 A.M. February 27, 1938, the son of William Richard Cook and Sadie Cornelius Cook in Hannibal, Missouri. He peacefully passed away and was received into the loving arms of his Lord and Savior on Thursday, July 25, 2024. On May 3, 1965, Chuck married Sharon Fields in Detroit, Michigan. Together they have cherished the last 59 years they have been blessed to spend together. Charles had two siblings Dorothy Cook Albright and Margaret Cook Morley Duhr from the Hannibal, Missouri area that proceeded him in death. Chuck was born the year they graduated from High School and always considered himself their graduation present. Chuck accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior at the age of 8 and was active in music ministry in several churches as he and Sharon moved around Michigan. He was a graduate of Hannibal La-Grange University. He served in the United States Navy from 1960-1964 where he was active in their music program. Chuck was employed by J.L Hudson’s of Detroit, Michigan for 21 years, consulted at the Small Business Development Center, Lansing Community College for five years, worked for Family Christian Stores for 13 years until his retirement. In retirement his mentor and good friend Dee Smith and he started Quality Management and Training Consultants, L.L.C. and worked with organizations and individuals in the Charlotte area. Chuck was active in the Charlotte community. From the age of 14 on Chuck had private piano students and found joy in teaching them and watching them grow in their appreciation of music and their abilities. Anyone who knew Chuck understood that he had an unusual sense of humor and was never sure if he was serious or jerking them around. He enjoyed a joyful, abundant life centered in Jesus Christ his Lord and Savior.
Chuck is survived by his wife, Sharon; brother and sister, Ray and Elaine Rossell of Flushing, Michigan; and numerous nieces and nephews in the Hannibal, Missouri area.
He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Dorothy Cook Albright and Margaret Cook Morley Duhr.
Those desiring may make contributions in Chuck’s memory to Pawsibilities Rescue 2200 W. Bellevue Hwy., Olivet, MI 49076.
Funeral services were held on Monday, July 29, 2024, at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with R. Raymond Rossell officiating. Burial will take place at the Flushing Cemetery in Flushing, Michigan.
To view Chuck’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Dorothy Diane Ebert
Dorothy Diane Ebert of Eaton Rapids, MI, passed away on Friday, July 26, 2024, at the age of 74. Born on October 5, 1949, in Flint, MI, Diane was the cherished daughter of Lester and Elizabeth (Marks) Proffer. She grew up in Rankin, Michigan and graduated from Ainsworth High School with the class of 1967.
On July 20, 1979, Diane married Lanny Ebert, and together they raised three sons. A devoted wife and mother, Diane dedicated many years to nurturing her boys. Once they were grown, she pursued further education and earned a master’s degree from Michigan State University. Diane then embarked on a fulfilling career as a 4th-grade teacher for Holt Public Schools, where she made a lasting impact on her students.
In her free time, Diane was an avid crafter who enjoyed sewing, painting, and creating special gifts for her friends and family. She was also a proud member of the “Cardetts,” a card-making club in Charlotte, MI, where she shared her artistic talents and camaraderie.
Diane is preceded in death by her parents, Lester and Elizabeth Proffer; her sister, Ruth Warry; her brother, Jack Proffer; and her son, Dustin Ebert. She is survived by her loving husband, Lanny Ebert; her sons, Benjamin Vannest and Gary (Neo) Vannest; her brothers, Ron (Carol) Proffer, Roger (Linda) Proffer, Jeff (Kaye) Proffer, Bob (Joyce) Proffer, Jim Proffer, John (Charlotte) Proffer, and Lester (Altagracia) Proffer; her sisters, Janet Reith and Donna (Jack) Ogle; her grandchildren, Diane Potso Vannest and Jaymes Ebert-Nicholson; her great-grandchild, Bryan Ebert; and several nieces and nephews.
No services will be held at this time. Memorial contributions may be made to Ingham County Animal Shelter or Saved by Zade in Diane’s memory. To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Michelle Marie Edwards
Michelle Marie Edwards, 46, of Bellevue, went to be with her Lord on July 24, 2024, at Bronson Battle Creek, Battle Creek MI. She was born on May 14, 1978, to Thomas M. and Jane M. (Osman) Edwards in Marshall, MI. She graduated from Bellevue High School in 1996.
She was a member of Faith Assembly of God in Olivet. Michelle was involved in baton twirling when she was younger, competing with her teammates in National and local competitions, while also performing in parades in different communities around Michigan. She enjoyed making latch hook rugs, walking around Bellevue visiting friends, going to sporting events at the high school, and playing Dominos on the weekends with her friends. She was a big Dale Earnhardt fan. Michelle really enjoyed hanging out with her friends.
Michelle is survived by her parents; brother, Steven (Keri Cole) Edwards of Battle Creek; special niece, Madison Cole and special friend, Nancee Ludwick.
Visitation was held Monday, July 29, 2024, at Faith Assembly of God, 9800 S. Cochran Rd., Olivet, MI 49076. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at the Faith Assembly of God, Olivet, Michigan, with Pastor Todd Mclane, officiating.
The burial will take place in the Riverside Cemetery in Bellevue.
Memorials are suggested to the Hydrocephalus Association, https://www.hydroassoc.org/ or Colon Cancer Research Prevention Fund, https://colorectalcancer.org/. 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, or to leave the family condolences.
Carrie Belle Putnam Marks
Carrie Belle Putnam Marks, 60, of Dimondale, died on Wednesday, July 24, 2024. Carrie was born on May 29, 1964, in Albion, MI the daughter of Frank and Glodia (Powers) Putnam. She was the first-born child and the apple of their eye. Eventually she had a baby brother who was a part of her life for 15 short months before his passing. Carrie had two children, Jessica and Jeremy, but due to life choices they were raised and adopted by other families. She never stopped loving her children. Carrie enjoyed doing word searches and walking.
Carrie is survived by her children, Jessica and Jeremy; her grandchildren; and several cousins and extended family members. She was predeceased by her parents; siblings, William Guy; Rhonda Sue, and Paul Allen; and several aunts and uncles.
Friends are encouraged to support Carrie’s family by sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Her family is planning a private graveside service at Clarence Township Cemetery. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Pray Funeral Home to assist the family with final expenses. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Pamela Lorraine Dennis
Pamela Lorraine Dennis who was loved by everyone that she met, died on Tuesday, July 30, 2024. Pamela 65, of Charlotte, was born on August 16, 1958, in Lansing, MI the daughter of Erwin and Lorraine (Strong) Dennis. She graduated from Lansing Sexton High School and began working. Over the years she worked for Michigan National Bank, Bank of America, Wells Fargo in Arizona, and most recently Walmart in Arizona and Charlotte once she moved back home. Pamela enjoyed working in her flower beds and making new friends. Above all her biggest love in life was her dog, Cinnamon.
Pamela is survived by her brothers, Ken Powelson and Karl (Ninta) Powelson. She was predeceased by her husband, Merlin “Butch” Dennis, and her parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Pamela’s family by sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Yvonne Evelyn VanDenDriessche
Yvonne Evelyn VanDenDriessche of Eaton Rapids, passed away unexpectedly at home July 26, 2024, at the age of 85. Yvonne was born in Battle Creek, MI, June 6, 1939, the daughter of Robert and Ruth (Johnson) Mayberry. Her parents owned and operated the R and R Snack Bar in Battle Creek, which is where Yvonne started working in the restaurant business before ending up at Bob Evans for over 20 years. Yvonne loved to bake and work on puzzles. Her favorites were Soduko, crossword puzzles and her card table always had a challenging puzzle on it. She was very proud of the fact that when her daughters were young, she went back to school to graduate and earn her diploma. After her husband Joseph’s death in 2012, she remained close with his family which she made her own.
Yvonne is survived by her daughters, Amy (Mike) Chandler of Harlem, GA, Anne (Alan) Grayson of Southfield, MI, Cheryl (Jim) Barch of Crystal Lake, IL, Carrie James of Eaton Rapids, MI; sons, Michael (Alice) Walker of McMillan, MI, Mike Higgs of Twin Lakes, MI;16 grandchildren; special grandchildren, Camiel and Carter; 16 great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband of 36 years, Joseph; son, Danny Adams; grandson, Danny Higgs; brother, Robert Mayberry.
Funeral services were held on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel, with visitation the hour before the service. Burial took place in Oakwood Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made the American Lung Association, 26555 Evergreen Rd Suite 540, Southfield, MI 48076. To leave condolences for the family please visit our website, www.millsfuneral.com.
Van J. Bush
Van J. Bush, 72, of Au Gres, MI, formerly of Eaton Rapids, MI, passed away on Monday, July 22, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on March 28, 1952, in Eaton Rapids, MI, Van was the son of Don and Doreen (VanDeusen) Bush.
Van grew up in Eaton Rapids, graduating from high school in the class of 1970. He attended Michigan State University, where he earned a degree in Agriculture. After graduation, Van started a career with General Motors, dedicating his expertise to the skilled trades until his retirement in 2004.
In retirement, Van moved to Au Gres, where he fully embraced his love for the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and taking care of his lawn and garden. An avid outdoorsman, Van made numerous trips to northern Michigan and Canada for camping, hiking, and canoeing. He was also passionate about racing and sports, particularly MSU football. In his younger years, he was actively involved with the pit crews at Spartan Speedway and Onondaga Speedway for sprint car races.
Van was a dedicated community member, participating in the Future Farmers of America, the Boy Scouts, and coaching in the Eaton Rapids Youth Football program. Known for his outgoing and social nature, Van could strike up a conversation with anyone. He had a deep love for cars and motorcycles, owning several Corvette models over the years.
Van is preceded in death by his parents and his son, Brad Bush. He is survived by his loving wife, Cathy Bush; children, Luke (Karin) Bush, Alana (Brian) Krull, and Gieselle (Scott) Staub; grandchildren, Ethan, Jake, and Hayden Bush, Donovan and Riley Krull, Owen, Ainsley, and Aubrey Staub; sister, Ranae (John) Phillips; brother, Doug (Lois) Bush; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, July 29, 2024, at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids, with visitation beginning at 9:00 AM. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Future Farmers of America (FFA) in memory of Van. To share memories or leave online condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.