Obituaries
Michael Lee Otto
Michael “Mike” Lee Otto, age 76, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his wife and children after a courageous battle with cancer.
Mike was born in Battle Creek, Michigan, on December 15, 1949, and was raised in Bellevue, Michigan. A proud 1968 graduate of Bellevue High School, he went on to attend Olivet College, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration. He later continued his education at Western Michigan University, earning a master’s degree in business.
Mike began his career as a teacher and coach at Bellevue High School, where he taught and mentored students for nine years. He later became a State Farm Insurance Agent in Charlotte, Michigan, where he served the community for more than 35 years, building lasting relationships with clients who became lifelong friends.
Throughout his life, Mike loved the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, coaching, building projects and spending time with family and friends. He especially loved coaching his children and cheering them on in their activities. Nothing brought him more joy than time spent with his grandchildren, where there was always plenty of wrestling, teasing, laughter and sweet treats.
Two of Mike’s favorite places were the family lodge, where he spent countless hours enjoying the outdoors and creating memories with those he loved, and Ouray, Colorado, where for many years he returned with family to hike, hunt and fish.
Mike was known for his strong work ethic and willingness to help others. Over the years, he built three homes with his own hands alongside family and friends. He loved building and fixing things and was always the first to offer help or advice when someone had a project.
Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Joyce Otto; brothers, Gary, Steve and Don Otto; and his grandson, Quinton Otto.
Mike is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Mary (Clancy) Otto; his children, Stacey (Bryan) Sewell, Timothy Otto, Chelsey (Matt) Carpenter and Kyle (Tatiana) Otto; his cherished grandchildren, Logan (Kelsy) Otto, Austin (Gillian) Spaeth, Addison Sewell, Cassidy Otto, Emory Carpenter, Cam Carpenter and Lake Otto, and four great-grandchildren.
Mike will be greatly missed and remembered for his generosity, sense of humor, dedication to family and the many lives he touched throughout his life.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation PreNeed Care, Richland Chapel. Mike’s Life Celebration will be held on Sunday, March 15, at 11 a.m. at the Richland Chapel. The service will be Live-streamed and may be viewed here.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Mike’s honor may be directed to the American Red Cross, 5460 Venture Court, Kalamazoo, MI 49009 or to Heartland Hospice, 8075 Creekside Drive, # 120, Portage, MI 49024.
Personal messages and/or favorite memories of Mike may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.
Christie Bennie Temcoff
Christie (Chris) Bennie Temcoff, 95, most recently from Portland, Michigan, left this earthly home on February 17, 2026, surrounded by family. Born in Detroit in 1931 to Rachel and Bennie Temcoff, he graduated Northwestern High School and was drafted into the US Army for service in Japan during the Korean conflict.
After discharge he moved to Ashland, Wisconsin, and opened the Neighborly Bar, where he met Joan (Barker) Tast, a young widow enjoying time out with friends. They married in 1957, and over the span of the next several years had moved to Colorado and California, before settling in Charlotte, Michigan, in 1966.
After retiring from Owens Illinois Glass factory in Charlotte in 1993, they sold their home and moved to Leesburg, Florida. After Joan’s passing in 2004, Chris found love once again and in 2012 married Patricia Wohlscheid Cranson. Then, in 2017, they moved to their latest home in Portland, Michigan, before Pat’s passing in 2023.
For decades Chris enjoyed pitching recreational softball up until his move back to Michigan in 2017, often as a pinch runner for team members recovering from injuries. He served as a member of the local Portland Michigan American Legion, Post 129.
Having deep faith in his Lord and Savior, for decades he served his local church of Christ family as song leader, teacher, preacher, and most recently as Elder for the Grand Ledge Church of Christ.
Chris is survived by sons Terry (Susan) Tast of Charlotte, Michigan, Tracy (Deborah) Temcoff of Manistee, Michigan, granddaughter Sara (Nick) Lincoln, and great-granddaughter Emma Lincoln. Of special mention is Mary Cranson Riddle and Vicki Cranson, daughters of Pat who quickly became daughters to Chris for their care and love shown through the years.
A celebration of life gathering is to be held at the Sunset Ridge community center in Portland, Michigan, from 1 to 5 p.m. on March 28, 2026.
Richard Bates Ackerman
Mr. Richard Bates Ackerman, age 88, passed away in Muskegon, Michigan, on March 7, 2026 from Parkinson’s Disease.
He was born in Muskegon Heights, Michigan, on June 28, 1937 to Ronald E. and Catherine E. (Carrier) Ackerman. Richard married the former Marilyn Adele Fredericksen in Muskegon on October 6, 1956. They shared nearly 67 cherished years of marriage before her passing in 2023.
He graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in Business Administration and went on to become an entrepreneur and respected leader in medical administration. Throughout his career, he held a number of important roles in the healthcare field. He served as Supervisor of Central Sterile Supply at Ingham Medical Hospital, Supervisor of Long-Term Care Pharmaceuticals in Lansing, owner of Alta Surgical Supply in Lansing, and was co-owner of the Sun Theatre in Grand Ledge. He also worked as Purchasing Director for Lansing General Hospital, an X-Ray Technician, and a Pharmaceutical Sales Representative for Lloyd Brothers, where he was responsible for introducing the medication Lasix to Michigan.
Richard was also committed to his community, having served as Treasurer of Watertown Township and as Grand Master of the Masonic Temple Lodge in Wacousta. A competitive and talented athlete, Richard earned numerous awards in bowling, golf, trap shooting, pool, handball, and racquetball. He was an avid outdoorsman having traveled throughout the United States on hunting and fishing trips. Richard was an Instrument-Rated pilot who owned and operated his own airplane.
Throughout his life, he was known for his generosity and willingness to help others, often mentoring and supporting those going through difficult times.
He will be lovingly remembered by his children, RoxeAnn (Stephen) Welch and Randall (Kathleen) Ackerman; seven grandchildren, Madolin (Ryan), Martin (Cara), Michael (Abbey), Ryan (Darcie), Lindsay (Tony), Joshua (Jodi), and Kate (Michael), and six great-grandchildren, Quentin, Jack, Lily, Louisa, Vada, and Charlie. He was preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn; parents; and sister, Kay Craig.
According to his wishes, cremation has taken place and a celebration of his life will be announced at a later date. Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. You may sign his online guestbook at www.sytsemafh.com.
Robert Wayne Osenbaugh
Robert Wayne Osenbaugh, was born on February 24, 1962, in Cadillac, Michigan. He passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026, in Lansing, Michigan, surrounded by his beloved family.
On October 18, 1984, he married Robin Wehr in Charlotte. Together they created a home filled with love and laughter.
Robert dedicated his entire professional life to his career as a diesel mechanic, a vocation that highlighted his technical skills and commitment to hard work. He graduated from Bellevue High School in 1981, where he cultivated friendships that would last throughout his life. His selflessness and caring nature were evident not only in his professional endeavors but also in his interactions with friends and family.
A proud veteran, Robert served his country honorably in the United States Marine Corps. His time in the military instilled in him a sense of discipline and a deep respect for service. He carried these values with him throughout his life.
Robert was known for his passion for classic cars and loved attending car shows, where he connected with fellow enthusiasts who shared his appreciation for automotive history. He also cherished spending time in South Haven with Robin.
Robert is survived by his wife of 41 years, Robin; children, Wayne (Amanda) Osenbaugh, Lalena Lindsey, Jennifer Lake, William (Amanda) Hildebrant; grandchildren; David, Evan, Tyler, Madisyn, Kahlan, Julianna, Ariana, Addy; siblings, Judy (Ed) Trailer, Frank (Tammi) Osenbaugh, Harry (Jeanette) Osenbaugh; and numerous nieces and nephews; countless friends; and his beloved German Shepherd, Lily.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Judith (Pratt) Osenbaugh; brother, Cecil Osenbaugh Jr.; and son-in-law, William Lake.
In keeping with Robert’s wishes cremation has taken place and a memorial will be held sometime this summer.
Those desiring may make contributions in Robert’s memory to Charlotte Cruisers Car Club.
To view Robert’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
Daryl Ward Bryner Sr.
Daryl Ward Bryner Sr., a devoted family man, died February 28, 2026. Daryl, 78, of Charlotte, was born July 18, 1947, in Charlotte, Michigan, to Franklin and Mildred (Kelly) Bryner.
On December 6, 1969, Daryl married Sharon Kay (Caswell), and together they raised a family he loved and was so proud of. Daryl was a life-time dairy farmer who also loved his mules and draft horses. He was a social butterfly and could tell the best stories and had a passion for making maple syrup. Many will remember Daryl for climbing hills on his motorcycle, woodworking and finding the most delicious fish fries around town. He worked for Aluminum Extrusions for 26 years and later became the owner of Bryner Septic Service of 38 years.
Daryl is survived by three sons, Pete (Tammy) Bryner, Daryl Bryner Jr., and Edward “Butch” Hopkins, all of Charlotte; daughters, Velvet (Eric) Michael of Clarksville, Tenn., and Julie Deland of Bellevue; 10 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; sisters, Irma Kohl and Janice Barnes; brother Stanley (Marsha) Bryner, and sister-in-law Janet Bryner; and many close friends and extended family. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon; son, Mark Allen Bryner; brother, Roger Bryner; brother-in-law, Lawrence Kohl; his parents; and in-laws, Charles and Maybell Parker.
Friends are encouraged to support Daryl’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Thursday, March 5, 2026, 2: to 2 p.m. and 66 to 8 p.m. Funeral services were Friday, March 6, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Charles Jenson. officiating. Interment will immediately follow at the Lakeview Cemetery, Nashville Michigan. 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 Daryl’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Herbert-Herman Cancer Center. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Connie Jean Brandt
Connie Jean Brandt, 79, of Charlotte, a loving wife, mother and grandmother, died peacefully on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 in Lansing. Connie was born January 8, 1947 in Charlotte, the daughter of Lowell Ralph and Betty Jane (Hale) Shumaker. She married the love of her life, Floyd Marcus Brandt, on September 4, 1965 and the two happily raised their three children in Charlotte.
Throughout the years, Floyd and Connie enjoyed many adventures together, including travelling to Alaska and the Great Lakes to name a few. In later years, Connie would take Floyd to the casino, or just out for a drive to spot deer. Their daughters took them to Manistee and Grand Haven, where they enjoyed watching the sunset over Lake Michigan from the beach.
Connie also enjoyed being with her close friends, many of whom she gathered to play euchre or bunko with at the Eaton Area Senior Center, where she was an active member and volunteer. She will be missed by her many friends, especially Martha and Margie. The highlight of Connie’s life was time spent with her family, especially at family dinners. She enjoyed playing euchre with her kids and grandkids, even though a few of the grandsons would occasionally bend the rules. Some of her favorite times were watching the grandchildren playing in the backyard, doing puzzles together, or playing a family favorite, “Hide the thimble.”
When her health declined, Connie remained a positive presence to all those around her. Even after chemotherapy, she was always ready to share some broccoli cheese soup and frosted shortbread cookies with her daughter.
Connie is survived by her husband of 60 years, Floyd Marcus Brandt, Sr.; daughters, Regina Brandt and Michelle (Josh Rood) Skuse; son, Floyd (JJ) Brandt, Jr.; grandchildren, Savannah Christiansen, Heidi (Logan Logan) Christiansen, Clifford (Chelsea Miller) Skuse, Colson (Olivia Adkins) Skuse, Bo (Adriana Slater) Brandt, Koda (Ayla Holben) Brandt, and Cutler (Kelsey Stiver) Brandt; great-grandchildren, Noah Skuse and Marcie Commans; siblings, Sandra Wixson, Randy (Dena) Shumaker, Deb (Don) Moga, and Lynn (Paul) Juhola; brother-in-law, Keith Nayler; and many nieces and nephews. Connie was predeceased by her sister, Diana Naylor, and brother-in-law, Tom Wixson.
Friends are encouraged to support Connie’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A Celebration of Life will take place at 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at Pray Funeral Home with Laura Cooper officiating. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. just prior to the service. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Eaton Area Senior Center or Hospice of Lansing – Stoneleigh Residence. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Lee Ann Holmes
Lee Ann Holmes of Eaton Rapids, Michigan, passed away on February 9, 2026, at the age of 73. Born February 3, 1953, in New Castle, Indiana, she was the daughter of Commodore Lee and Phyllis June (Gossage) Fernander.
As remembered by family and friends, Lee Ann’s working life began with babysitting for 35 cents an hour, followed by waitressing, then working at the RCA warehouse. She later worked on the assembly line building Philco refrigerators at Ford’s Connersville Climate Control Plant in Connersville, Indiana. Lee Ann continued her career at Ford, entering the trades, becoming the first woman apprentice electrician in the state of Indiana. She went on to earn her journeyman electrician’s license and was a proud member of the IBEW.
In 1981, Lee Ann entered into a lifelong contract when she married Orville. Through perseverance and patience, found the love of her life. She made the move to Michigan “where the lilacs come later in the spring” to be a homemaker, raising their children in Eaton Rapids.
Later in life, she returned to a long-held interest in electronics, working at Wal-Mart in the electronics department. She specialized in setting up cellphone contracts and helping people program their phones, an ever-challenging occupation she approached with the attention to detail she was known for throughout her many endeavors.
Lee Ann was involved in her community, volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters, 4-H, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. She was exceptionally talented and handy, with no project too large or intimidating to tackle. She found joy in sewing, crocheting, embroidery, carpentry, electronics, puzzles, computer programming and gaming among other creative pursuits, that showcased her remarkable abilities.
She was preceded in death by beloved grandparents, Willard and Retta Gossage, her example to a loving marriage; her great-grandmother, Sally Ramsey who helped Lee Ann develop attention to detail into lifelong skills like sewing and crocheting; her best friends and collaborators, sisters, Marie Holcomb and Roxanne Boatman; father, Lee Fernander; and many cherished elders, relatives, and friends who shared life lessons that shaped her into the woman she became. She now joins Great Aunt Lois and others who were waiting for her to catch up.
She is survived by her loving mother, Phyllis Fernander, who taught her endless life skills and how to survive with less than the bare minimum; her devoted husband, Orville James Holmes; her cherished children, Leeland Bert Holmes, Anna Lin (Colin) McClain and James Paul Holmes; her beloved granddaughter, Leala Nichole Williams; her sisters, Linda Catron and Nina Williams; along with many extended family members and dear friends.
In keeping with Lee Ann’s wishes, no funeral services will be held in Michigan at this time. There will be a Celebration of Life held in her hometown, New Castle, Indiana, at the Henry County Memorial Park, W. G. Smith Building, on May 3, 2026. Those wishing to share memories or leave online condolences may do so at www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Ronald Howard Halsey
Ronald Howard Halsey, age 90, formerly of Olivet, Lansing, and Potterville, passed away on March 3, 2026, in East Lansing, Michigan. He was born on November 10, 1935, in rural Walton Township, Eaton County, to Victor and Dorothy (Southward) Halsey. He dedicated several decades of his life to General Motors, working for more than 30 years as an engineer, where he demonstrated his exceptional skills and commitment to his profession.
An alumnus of Olivet High, Ron graduated with the class of 1953. His strong work ethic was complemented by his love for hands-on activities. In his spare time, he embraced the life of a hay and crop farmer. Friends and neighbors often sought his expertise, bringing him engines and motors in disrepair, which he enjoyed restoring to working order.
Ron shared many joyful moments with his wife, Martha. Together, they loved to travel to Niagara Falls and Florida, creating memories that would last a lifetime. His friendliness and willingness to assist those around him will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.
Ron is survived by his children: Jan Matlock, Joseph (Marilyn) Halsey, Kari Halsey, Mark Price, Ronda Halsey, Jody (Ann) Halsey, Cheri St. Claire, Kathy (Rick) Stimer, Walt Collins Jr., and Tammy (Andy) Flynn; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren; and his sister, Nancy Crane.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Martha Halsey in 2012; his brother John Halsey; two step-sons, Dale Collins and Jeff Price; and an infant daughter.
Those desiring to make contributions in Ron’s memory may do so by donating to Eaton Community Palliative Care, 2675 S. Cochran Rd., Charlotte, Michigan 48813.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, March 9, 2026 at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home, 206 W. Lawrence Ave., Charlotte, Michigan. Visitation will be on Sunday, March 8, 2026, from 4: to 6 p.m., also at the funeral home.
To view Ron’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.
Gary Thomas Webb
Gary Thomas Webb, lovingly known as “Bud,” was born on July 18, 1951, in Battle Creek, Michigan, to Lester and Mattie (Mooneyham) Webb. He passed away on February 26, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, devotion, and deep family roots.
Gary spent his life doing what he loved most – working the family farm and contributing his skills to numerous construction companies throughout his career, though a large portion of his career was spent working at Associated Construction and Quality Excavating. A true jack of all trades, there wasn’t much he couldn’t build, fix, or figure out. Known as one of the hardest workers around, he could almost always be found on a tractor, tending to the land he cherished. Farming wasn’t just his livelihood; it was his passion and his way of life.
He was also passionate and driven when it came to his extensive garden, a dedication that grew into a family business, D and W Tomatoes. His love for cultivating the land went beyond work – it was an expression of care, patience, and pride that he shared with his family and community.
An avid outdoorsman, Gary loved hunting and fishing. He took great pride in his rabbit dogs and enjoyed many seasons of deer hunting. He was also an avid woodworker, always building or crafting something with his hands – a true craftsman who found joy in creating. Some of his happiest moments were spent outdoors or entertaining family and friends at the family farm, where laughter and storytelling were always in abundance.
Gary was married to the love of his life, Judy Lynn Webb, for 55 wonderful years. Judy passed away a few months before him, leaving behind a shared legacy of love, family, and devotion. Together, they built a strong and close-knit family.
He was a proud father to Jason Webb and Jeff (Shannon) Webb, and a loving grandfather to Donny Kyre, Logan Kyre, and Cameron Webb. He never missed a sporting event for his children or his grandchildren, always showing up with pride and unwavering support. His family was the center of his world, and he was never happier than when surrounded by them.
Known as the family prankster, Gary kept everyone laughing. His playful spirit and quick wit brought joy to countless gatherings. He was also known for his generous heart – he would give you the shirt off his back without hesitation.
Gary was deeply family-oriented, hardworking, and full of life. His legacy of love, laughter, dedication, and strength – and his passion for farming, gardening, and building – will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Gary was preceded in death by his wife, Judy Lynn Webb; his parents, Lester and Mattie Webb; and his siblings, Wanda Douglas, Joyce Randall, Bill Jo Webb, and Betty Denton. He leaves behind his children, Jeffrey (Shannon) Webb and Jason Webb, his grandchildren, Donny Kyre, Logan Kyre, and Cameron Webb, is also survived by his special friends, Janet Moon and Ruth Goheen, who meant so much to him and his family.
A Celebration of Life for Judy and Gary will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Hospice of Lansing at the Stoneleigh House or the Webb Family Pulling Team. Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services is honored to care for the Webb family in their time of need.
Raymond Buffmyer
Raymond Buffmyer passed away at age 76 on February 4, 2026, after a courageous battle against Parkinson’s. Born in Pontiac and raised in Walled Lake, Michigan, Ray graduated from Walled Lake Central High School, where he was a 1968 Class A State Wrestling Champion. Ray went on to wrestle for and graduate from Michigan State University in 1972. He then earned his Juris Doctor from Cooley Law School in 1976 and embarked upon a career as an assistant prosecutor in Eaton County before going into private practice until retiring in 2018.
Ray will always be remembered as an avid storyteller who made his family laugh with anecdotes from his career as a criminal defense lawyer and other life adventures. He was published locally with his “Ask the Lawdog” column dispensing tips and common sense and he always loved to be stopped in town to hear from people about his columns.
Besides his family, Ray loved nothing more than his Michigan State Spartans. Always clad in MSU gear, one of his favorite pastimes was arguing with his University of Michigan friends and attending any and all MSU sporting events. He is also remembered for his passionate love of the outdoors and conservation. Most weekends, he could be found with his dogs and his wife, Debra, heading “Up North” to feed the deer, fish, and attend his long-standing hunting camp with his best friends.
Ray is survived by Debra, his wife of 37 years, as well as his siblings: Louise (Chris) Holman, Laraine Matthews, and sisters-in-law Robin (Wayne) Cook and Barb (Dirk) Frazier. He was a wonderful uncle to 13 nieces and nephews: Jeff Brainard, Kerry (John) Verdi, Allyson (Jeremy) Robinson, Andrew (Ashlee) Holman, Aaron (Michaela) Holman, David Matthews, Erin (Ben) Cohoon, Ben (Kristi) Cook, Melissa Chapman, Elise (Carlos) Silsby-Flores, Kelsey Silsby, Matthew (Marissa) Swab and Ashley Swab. In addition, he leaves behind numerous great nieces and nephews and many, many friends who will miss his smile and quick wit.
He was predeceased by his parents, Ralph and Gene Buffmyer, brother-in-law Dan Matthews, in-laws Larry & Bobbie Frazier and sister-in-law Regina Swab.
Funeral services will be held on March 11, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Charlotte, MI. Visitation will be at 10 a.m., followed by a Mass and luncheon at the church.
Thank you to all of the friends and family who called, visited and took Ray on excursions through his last couple of years. The family also sends their appreciation to the caring staff at The Courtyard at Delta for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Michigan Parkinson’s Foundation: 30400 Telegraph Rd Ste. 150, Bingham Farms, Michigan, 48025. Arrangements entrusted to Vickers Leslie Funeral Home, 109 N. Church St./PO Box 503, Leslie, Michigan, 49251. 517-878-6600.