Obituaries
Tomasa M. Velasquez
Tomasa M. Velasquez passed away Saturday, November 10, 2018. Born December 21, 1938, the daughter of Virginia and Genaro Cantu, Tomasa is one of seven children. She was very proud to have graduated in the Top 10 of her Class of 1957. She then went on to gain her degree in nursing. Moving to Michigan in the mid-60s, she became entrenched in Michigan Health Services.
Being community minded, Tomasa, along with former Mayor Tony Benevides became extremely important in the development and growth of the Cristo Rey Community Medical Clinic, which continues to offer quality healthcare to the underprivileged, as well as serving Michigan migrant farm workers. She will be deeply missed as a champion for minority equality.
Tomasa is survived by her four sons, Alonzo “Chacho” Gomez, Tommy Gomez, William “Badge” Velasquez, John “Pooky” Velasquez; ten grandchildren; and two sisters, Tedora Palomo and Rafaela Nygard.
A celebration of Tomasa’s life will be held Sunday, November 18, 2018, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Eaton Area Senior Center, located at 804 S. Cochran in Charlotte.
Ernam L. Royston
Ernam Lloyd Royston, a beloved and humble farmer and friend of many, went to be with his Lord and Savior on November 13, 2018. Ernam, 90, entered this world on January 28, 1928 in Charlotte, one of five children born to Lester and Leeta (Parr) Royston. His entire life was spent in Charlotte, graduating from Charlotte High School in 1946, and in school he was active in FFA and the band, playing baritone and French horn. He also played violin and various other instruments. On September 20, 1947 he married Virginia Holley, and together they raised three children on the family farm. Farming was what Ernam enjoyed most, as a favorite poem stated, “I’m just a farmer, plain and simple. Not of royal birth, but rather a worker of the earth. I know not of riches, but rather of patches on my britches.” He also worked at Eaton Intermediate Schools in maintenance for 15 years, and as a substitute rural postal carrier, but a farmer all his life.
A man of faith and lifelong member of the Crossroads United Brethren Church, Ernam enjoyed being active on the board, properties team, many church activities, and belonging to the Men’s Brotherhood. Always working behind the scene, Ernam preferred doing things without being noticed, out of the goodness of his heart and never for any thanks or recognition. His daughters lovingly recognize and remember him as a great father, and a quiet, patient, even-tempered, kind and compassionate man who was best known for his honesty and integrity in all that he did.
Ernam is survived by his daughters, Silver (Marv) Spitzley and Dawn (Dan) Hoffman; grandchildren, Autumn (Gary) Teeple, Nathan (Sarah) Spitzley, Cassondra (Casey) King, and Jason (Melissa) Hulsebos; nine great-grandchildren; sister, Sharon (Lewie) Young; and sisters-in-law, Jean Royston and Carol Holley; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Ernam was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Virginia in 2011; son, Ronald Royston; great-grandson, Ethan Teeple; sisters, Anna Mae Conley and Elaine Gray; brother, Vernon Royston.
The family would like to thank Ernam’s extended family: his home health care providers as well as the nurses, CNAs, and entire staff that became his extended family for the last six years at Eaton Gardens.
Friends are encouraged to celebrate the life and support the family of Ernam Royston at visitation and funeral services.
Funeral services are Saturday, November 17, at 1 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Rev. James Kendall officiating. Visitation was Friday, November 16, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contribution be made to Crossroads United Brethren Church or Eaton County Health and Rehabilitation Services Activity Fund.
Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Ernam on his Tribute Page at PrayFuneral.com.
David E. Lake
David Earl Lake, 72, of Charlotte, passed away Sunday, November 11, 2018, at his hunting camp in the U.P. He was born March 19, 1946, in Salt Lake City, Utah, the son of Earl and Lela (McLane) Lake. Dave graduated from Charlotte High School with the Class of 1964. He went on to honorably serve his country in the United States Marine Corp during the Vietnam War. Dave was deployed for three tours of duty, serving over 27 months in combat. He was awarded the Navy Achievement Medal with Combat “V” for his exemplary service. On January 24, 1970, Dave married Kathleen Moehring at the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church in Charlotte. Dave loved his children and grandchildren and loved going to the many sporting events his grandchildren participated in. He worked the majority of his life as a carpenter around the Charlotte area. He was always willing to lend a hand to his friends when needed. Dave had a passion for the outdoors. He could often be found out hunting or fishing. He was especially fond of his hunting camp in Big Bay, Michigan. This was a place that he could get away alone or with family and enjoy the quiet beauty of the Upper Peninsula. Dave was a proud member of the Eaton County Buck Club.
Dave is survived by his wife of 48 years, Kathy; daughter, Jessica (Greg) King of Moyock, N.C.; grandchildren, Cassidy King, Mathew King, David Lake, Alana King, Tyler Lake, Catherine King; daughter-in-law, Jennifer Lake; siblings, Dennis (Barbara) Lake, Doug (Pennie) Lake, Diana Jester.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and son, William E. Lake.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 19, 2018, at 11 a.m. at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home, with Pastor Gabe Priddy officiating. The family will receive friends on Sunday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will take place at Gresham Cemetery.
Those desiring to make contributions in Dave’s honor may send them to Olivet Community School, 255 1st St, Olivet, MI, 49076. Please include a reference to: Athletic Boosters fund for student assistance.
To view Dave’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.
Doreen M. Bush
Doreen Marie Bush of Eaton Rapids passed away on Thursday, November 15, 2018 at the age of 89. Doreen was born on the family farm in Eaton Rapids on August 13, 1929 the only child of Wesley and Doris (Ackley) Van Deusen. She was a graduate of Eaton Rapids High School class of 1947. Doreen married Willis Bush in 1947 and together built their home on the family farm where she was born. She worked many jobs over the years but spent most of her time helping on the farm and working for Michigan National Bank in Lansing. Doreen was very involved at the Eaton Rapids Congregational Church where she had been a member since 1957. Above all, Doreen cherished her family and the time she spent with them.
Doreen is preceded in death by her husband, Willis; and parents, Wesley and Doris.
She is survived by her children, Ranae (John) Phillips, Van (Cathy) Bush, Doug (Lois) Bush; eight grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.
A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m. on Monday, November 19, 2018 at Brickyard Cemetery in Eaton Rapids Township. The family will receive friends at Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids Chapel on Sunday, November 18, 2018 from 2 to 5 p.m. A luncheon will be held on Monday starting at 1 p.m. at the First Congregational Church in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the First Congregation Church. To share memories or condolences please visit SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Michael P. Lahr
Michael Paul Lahr, 75, of Charlotte, passed away Wednesday, November 7, 2018, with his family by his side. He was born April 21, 1943, in Hastings, the son of Allen and Alice (Fuller) Lahr. Mike went on to graduate from Charlotte High School in 1961. On May 23, 1963, he married the love of his life, Arletta Joan Lewis, in Charlotte. Together they owned and operated Mike’s Automotive in Charlotte for 43 years. Mike was a passionate family man. He loved being together with those he loved most. He made it a point to attend all his grandchildren’s sporting events. Mike enjoyed bowling, hunting, fishing, and everything outdoors. He was also an active member of the Charlotte Optimist Club.
Mike is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Arletta; children, Troy (Lissa Staszuk) Lahr, Teri (Larry) Senk, Todd (Stacey) Lahr, Travis (Lauri) Lahr; grandchildren, Taylor Lahr, Eric Senk, Lexie Lahr, Brooke Lahr; several step-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; special friends, Joe Woods and Alan Harvath.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, November 12, 2018, at 11 a.m. at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. The family will receive friends on Sunday, November 11, 2018, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Monday. Interment will follow at Gresham Cemetery.
Those desiring, may make contributions in Mike’s honor to the Charlotte Fire Department-Christmas Kiddies, 111 E. Lawrence Ave., Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Mike’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.