Obituaries
Shirley A. Collins
Shirley Ann Collins, 90, of Charlotte, a self-sacrificing, caring woman of great character and independence, died peacefully on Tuesday, November 10, 2020. Shirley was born July 25, 1930 in Charlotte. She worked as a telephone operator for Michigan Bell (later AT&T), retiring with perfect attendance – a tribute to her flawless work ethic. Shirley always made sure things were done right. She enjoyed antiquing, especially collecting furniture, glass works, and books. She was an avid reader of mystery novels, and loved time spent playing cards and socializing with grandchildren, family and friends; chief among them was Susan Collins, her former daughter-in-law, whose relationship was treasured. Above all, she loved her role as matriarch of the Collins family. Shirley’s family will always be proud of her care of them even when resources were limited. The family has donated her many books and belongings to the local library in keeping with her spirit of generosity.
Shirley is survived by her sons, Mark, Gary (Eileen), and Jeff Collins; 12 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; siblings, Bruce (Tonja) Hicks, Phyllis Moore, and Jeannette Hicks, Bobby Hicks, Jerry (Evelyn) Hicks, and Dale (Carole) Hicks; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sons, Steve and Kyle Collins; and her brothers, Jack, Tink and Richard Hicks.
If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Charlotte Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie #3552. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Shirley on her tribute page at PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Ruth A. Aagaard
Ruth Ann Aagaard, age 72, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully at her home November 9, 2020. She was born April 11, 1948, in Grand Rapids, the daughter of George and Maude (Vandersteel) Kik. Ruth graduated from Creston High School in Grand Rapids in 1966. On February 21, 1979, she married Richard Aagaard in Crystal, Mich. Ruth was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend. She was always smiling and never had a bad word to say about anyone. She adored her family and was always there to support them. Ruth worked at the Eaton Place in Charlotte for 18 years and enjoyed the comradery she had with her coworkers. The family would like to thank the caring staff of McLaren Hospice, MSU Healthcare, and her favorite EMT Roy for their loving care during Ruth’s illness.
Ruth is survived by her husband, Richard; sons: Don Miller of Charlotte, Rick Aagaard of Charlotte; granddaughter, Vanessa Carroll; great grandson, Jace Carroll; and brother, Dan Kik of Grand Rapids.
She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Bob Kik.
A graveside service was held on Friday, November 13, 2020, at 11 a.m. at the Center Eaton Cemetery in Charlotte.
Those desiring, may make contributions in Ruth’s memory to McLaren Hospice 2815 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Suite 4, Lansing, Mich. 48910.
To view Ruth’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Charles H. Miller
Charles “Chuck” H. Miller, a helper of people, died peacefully at home surrounded by his family in the early morning on November 8, 2020, after a four-year battle with health issues. Chuck was born August 7, 1939 in Manitowoc, Wisc. to Cecil and Ruth (Tomaschefsky) Miller. He served in the U.S. Marine Corp from 1956 to 1958 and then continued his service to his country in the National Guard from 1973 to 1981.
Chuck was one of those generous people who cheerfully gave his time and his talent to others. Many will remember Chuck from his countless hours that he spent at the Potterville Sod Slingers racetrack where he manicured the grass to make sure the lawn mower races could proceed each weekend during the season.
Chuck loved the outdoors, and especially enjoyed the many years at deer camp in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula with his buddy Jim Ness, his nephews, his son Bob, and son in-law Patrick.
Chuck was also a fan of family and friends gathering for chili cookout parties in the backyard of the family home. Above all he was loved by everyone he met. He will be remembered for his quick wit and memorable one-liners he would share with a smile, his favorite one being “Don’t tell me what to do.”
Chuck is survived by his loving wife, Jackie; their children, Teri (Patrick) Daniels, Bob Miller, Greg Miller and John (Dena) Miller. He also leaves behind his 14 cherished grandchildren including the youngest, born June 30, 2020, and named Charlie Benjamin after his grandfather; as well his sister, June Ely; brother, Richard Miller; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Ruth Miller; his father, Cecil Miller; granddaughter, Kayla Daniels; brother, David Miller; and special brother-in-law, Jim Ness.
Friends are encouraged to support Chuck’s family at a chili cookout and memorial service at the family residence Saturday, November 14, at 2 p.m. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Chuck on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Elora Sylvia May Haigh
Elora Sylvia May Haigh, of Eaton Rapids, died at age zero on November 6, 2020. Funeral service was held on Nobember 13 at 1 pm at the Pray Funeral Home Gardens.
Judith K. Hansen
Judith Kay (Nellis) Hansen, of Eaton Rapids, passed away at the age of 83 on November 9, 2020. Judy was born in Jackson on February 1, 1937, to Frederick and Gertrude (Voice) Nellis. She was a teacher with the Fremont and Lansing public schools before retiring in 1994. As a teacher, she also was a physical education teacher, enjoyed swimming and taught swimming classes at the YMCA for several years. Judith’s hobbies included antiquing, reading, travel and restoring old houses. She was a member of the Eaton Rapids First United Methodist Church and the Friends of the Eaton Rapids Area District Library. Judy was an excellent organizer enjoying planning social events and attending reunions.
She is survived by her husband, Thomas Hansen; daughter, Julia (Scott) Barningham of Eaton Rapids; son, Eric (April) Hansen of Battle Creek; grandchildren, Jenna (Shane) Schnepp of Eaton Rapids, Mathew (Savahna) Hansen of Battle Creek, Kaitlynn (Joseph) Echevarria of Battle Creek, Caleb Hansen of Battle Creek and Bradley Barningham of Eaton Rapids. Judy was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Sandra (Nellis) Corr Jordan.
Graveside services will be held at a later date in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Eaton Rapids First United Methodist Church. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. Please visit our website to place online condolences at millsfuneral.com.