Obituaries
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.
Leonard D. Satterly
Leonard David Satterly, a devoted, husband, father, grandfather and brother, went to be with the Lord on November 6, 2018. Leonard, 73, was born February 15, 1945 in Battle Creek to David and Verna (Carey) Satterly. While riding the school bus Leonard met Hazel Gilson, who later became his wife, and together they created their legacy. Leonard was a workaholic, starting at age 13 to help support his family. He worked as a painter for Fisher Body, retiring in 1997. He also worked for Cook Heating. John Deere tractors were a big part of Leonard’s life, whether it was repairing or restoring them, each and every one had its own story. Monday mornings will never be the same without the coffee club meeting in Leonard’s barn office. Leonard enjoyed packing the Army tent and heading to Lake Stanton for family camping trips. Above all, Leonard loved others and would give the shirt off his back for other people. His biggest enjoyment in life was his family.
Leonard is survived by his loving family; wife, Hazel; children, Leonard D. (Tara) Satterly Jr., Dawn E. (Ronald P.) Kauffman, and Michael F. Satterly; grandchildren, Stephan Satterly, Sean (Brittany) Satterly, Jalesa (Zachary) Raymer, Ronald D. (Danielle) Kauffman, Brian (Kristin) Satterly, and Cassandra (Timothy) Haney; great-grandchildren, Drake Campbell, Deegan Campbell, Dayne Campbell, Ashlyn Manshum, Jackson Manshum, Kamden Satterly, Emerson Satterly, Brezlyn Satterly, Brinley Haney, Ryleigh Raymer, Rhys Raymer, and Rozlynn Raymer; brothers, Norris (Hazel) Satterly, Byron (Pam) Satterly, Chris (Linda) Satterly, and Larry (Jan) Mahan. Leonard was predeceased by his parents, and step-mother, Ella Norris.
Leonard’s family is planning a celebration of his life Spring of 2019. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Leonard on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.