Obituaries
Kenneth Lee Briggs
Kenneth Lee Briggs, age 84, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 15, 2023. He was born December 31, 1938, in Chester Township, the son of Elon and DonnaBelle (Blood) Briggs. Ken graduated from Charlotte High School with the Class of 1957. After high school, Ken was in the very first graduating class at Lansing Community College where he obtained his Associates Degree. On April 16, 1960, he married Anita Jean Brown at the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church. Ken worked the majority of his life as a draftsman and later supervisor for the Michigan Department of Transportation, although his true passion and love was always farming. He was an extremely talented woodworker and made many clocks and family heirlooms throughout his life. If he wasn’t in the fields or working with wood, he was in the woods hunting or on the water fishing. Both he and Anita traveled throughout all of North America in their Airstream Travel Trailer for 37 years. They cherished the many friends they were able to make along the way. Family was of the utmost importance to Ken. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.
Ken is survived by his wife of 63 years, Anita; daughters, Deb White of Charlotte, Cyndi (Skip) Collins of Charlotte; grandchildren, Curtis (Veronica) White, Nick (fiancé Mackenzie Huffman) White, Casee Gill (Nick Kepp), Mike (Alex) Gill; great-grandchildren, Briggs Gill, Arlo Gill, Matilda Gill, Wavelyn Kepp; brothers, Carroll (Marilyn) Briggs, Glen (Pat) Briggs; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A graveside service was held on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at the Gresham Cemetery with Chad Rogers officiating. A luncheon will follow at the Gresham United Methodist Church.
Those desiring may make contributions in Ken’s memory to the Gresham United Methodist Church 5055 Mulliken Road, Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Ken’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.
Joyce Elaine Phillips
Joyce Elaine Phillips, TV junkie and voracious book reader, rolled out during the credits of her favorite soap opera on September 17, 2023. Born Joyce Elaine Bouchard on June 19, 1943, in Hastings to Euclid “Frenchy” and Margaret (Lowell) Bouchard, Joyce grew up cherishing the importance of family. A very loving, caring person, Joyce became a Pediatric Nurse, working at Willis Knighton Medical Center in Shreveport, LA until her retirement in 2004. Doing things for others and providing them with gifts of her embroidery gave Joyce great pleasure, and she also enjoyed listening to Hank Williams and playing BINGO on Thursdays with her American Legion BINGO family. The Young and the Restless was her favorite show, she watched every episode from the day it came on until her final breath. She would often watch TV and read books at the same time.
Joyce’s family will miss the best mom and grandma they could imagine. She is survived by her children, James Moccardine Jr. and Michelle (Michael) Corrie, Richard and Carol Phillips and family, Allen and Julie Phillips and family, Neal Phillips and family; grandchildren, Kimberly Snyder and family, Christina Balser and family, Chastity Balser and family, Alicia Phillips and family, and Allen Dale Phillips II and family; and many great-grandchildren from A to Z. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Lloyd Phillips; grandson, Luke Jewell; and brother, Don Bouchard.
Friends are encouraged to support Joyce’s family by sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A Life Celebration is being planned by the family for a later date. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Rose Marie Brundage
Rose Marie Brundage, age 85, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 7, 2023. She was born July 28, 1938, in Charlotte, the daughter of Roy and Mary (Mitchell) White. On May 25, 1958, she married Bruce Brundage at the United Brethren Church in Charlotte. Rose was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She served as a piano player and youth leader for many years at the United Brethren Church. She also enjoyed crafting, shopping, and maintaining a beautiful lawn at her home. Rose was a tremendous homemaker and would help her husband in any way she could around the farm.
Rose is survived by her husband of 65 years, Bruce; sons, Wayne (Verna) Brundage of Charlotte, Eric (Melinda) Brundage of Delton, Neil (Leslie Ward) Brundage of Charlotte; 10 grandchildren; and 13 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Betty (Jim) Scott, Gloria (Bob) Albu, and Robert White.
Funeral services were held on Monday, September 11, 2023, at 11 a.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Pastor Ricky Hull officiating. The family received friends on Sunday from at the funeral home. Burial has taken place at Maple Hill Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contributions in Rose’s memory to Eaton Community Palliative Care, 2675 S. Cochran Rd., Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Rose’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Roger Charles Hosey
Roger Charles Hosey passed away on September 2, 2023, after a sudden and unexpected illness. He was born on January 18, 1961, to Roger Dale and Kathleen (Ballard) Hosey.
Roger, also known as Chuck or Chuckie to friends and family, had a big heart and was quick to help friends and family in need. His advice and assistance will be missed by many.
Roger had a gregarious nature and a lot of family and friends with whom he enjoyed spending time. He loved to tell stories (some would say “tall tales”). He enjoyed outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, and trail riding on ATVs. He valued the peace and quiet of nature so much that he built himself a shack in the woods to “get away from it all.”
Roger was a man of many talents. His knowledge and skills in construction kept him busy with many home maintenance, renovation and building projects, including several trips out-of-state to rebuild after natural disasters such as hurricanes. He took great pride in the precision and craftsmanship of his work. Likewise, his skill as a mechanic kept many vehicles on the road when repairs elsewhere may have been too expensive.
Roger’s pride and joy, however, were his boys, Kolten Hosey and Dalton Hosey. He was beyond proud that they have grown into the respectful, responsible, helpful and hard-working young men that they are.
Roger is survived by his wife, Debora Goodner; his sons, Kolten and Dalton; his sister and brother-in-law, Rae and Jeff Murphy; nieces, Kathryn Murphy (and her husband Dan Rasey), Cassady Brege (Andrew Brege) and Aubrey Vandemark (Tyler Vandemark); step-children, Sara Clark, Tori Clark, and Michael Clark; seven step-grandchildren and four great nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life memorial will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at the Kalamo Township Hall.
Thomas William Kuehn
Thomas “Tom” William Kuehn, a very gentle and kind man, died August 30, 2023. Tom was born September 24, 1942, in Lansing, Michigan the son of Marvin and Geraldine (Grafuis) Kuehn. After graduating from Charlotte High School in 1961, Tom went to work for General Motors, where he worked 43 years retiring in 2006 as a Journeyman Die Welder. At the age of 20, Tom met his future wife, Joyce and they were married 59 years and raised their two sons.
Always an active man, many referred to him as an army of people in one body, for no one could keep up with him. He had a large garage where he would work on welding cars for people and could fix or build anything. Tom also built their family home, there was not anything he could not do. He was passionate about gardening, especially proud of his pumpkin patch for his grandchildren.
Tom and Joyce enjoyed the cottage at Silver Lake and after retirement enjoyed spending winters in Florida. On his trips back to Michigan he always made a point to bring back pounds of Russell Stover’s Candy for his great-granddaughters.
Tom loved spending time with his granddaughters and great granddaughters, he would cook breakfast at the summer cottage and looked forward to the yearly school shopping trips with them.
Thomas William Kuehn is survived by his wife of 59 years, Joyce; sons, Brian Kuehn and Bradley (Debbie Jackson and Jackson family) Kuehn; granddaughters, Sierra (Clifford) Malloy, Haily (John Michael) Moore; great-granddaughters, Kylee, Ella, Haily, Aubree, Adalee, Layla and Harper; sisters, Judy (Steve) Gerry and Carol (Kim) Freer; sisters-in-law, Verna (Ron) Fleming and Jean (Bob) Kimball; nephew and nieces, Brett (Libby) Gunnison, Jason (Robin) Freer, Cheryl Kimball and Kim White; great-nephew, Annan. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Tom’s family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Funeral services were Thursday, September 14, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Sean Esterline officiating. The funeral was webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Tom’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Charlotte Future Farmers of America. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Doris Sadler
Doris Sadler, a caring, feisty, and funny mother, grandmother,great-grandmother, great-great-grandmother, and sister, died on Friday, September 8, 2023. Doris 93, of Charlotte, was born on December 19, 1929, in Palmersville, TN, the daughter of James and Minnie (Pettit) Burton. On June 22, 1947, Doris married John Thomas Sadler and created many fond memories until his passing in 1979. She worked as a Nurse Aide for the Holliday Home, Hayes Green Beach Hospital, and Eaton Manor until her retirement in 1989 to help with her grandchildren. Doris was an avid NASCAR fan and college basketball fan, especially UofM. She also enjoyed playing bingo, trips to the casino, playing cards, and spoiling her cats, Thelma and Louise. Many will remember Doris and her love for sweets, trait that she has passed down to her family. Doris was a very independent woman and later in life she never wanted to be a burden for her family members as they helped care for her. Above all her biggest passion in life was her family and the great joy that they provided to her.
Doris is survived by her children, Ann (Ken) Firman, Gloria (James) Schaefer, Tom (Jenny) Sadler, and Cyndi Wine; nine grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; nine great-great-grandchildren; and ister Linda (Kenneth) Stanley. She was predeceased by her husband, John; seven sisters; one brother; her parents; and son-in-law, Jerry Wine.
Friends are encouraged to support Doris’s family by sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Funeral services were Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Pete Kroll officiating. The funeral was webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Doris’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Eaton County Humane Society or the American Cancer Society. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Marjorie Elaine Baur-Ballard
Beloved Mother and Grandmother, Marjorie Elaine Baur-Ballard nee Karr is now dancing through the beautiful flowers, free from pain, in heaven. She passed on September 6, 2023, in Benton Township. After 90 love filled years of faith and family, she joined her Lord and Savior. Marge was born in Cass City on April 6, 1933. She married Kenneth L. Baur in 1952, and together they moved to Charlotte, MI to raise their family of five children together on the farm. During this time the Baurs traveled the state and attended various county fairs, along with the Michigan State Fair, to show sheep and participate in 4H. She was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church and First Lutheran Church. Together, Ken and Marge owned Town & Country Realty and the Award & Specialty Co. until Ken passed in 2000. Later, Marge married Jack Ballard welcoming him into life at the family home until his passing in 2020. Fond memories of the family gathering together at the farm, or “Bamie’s House,” along with Marge’s love of flowers, will forever be cherished.
She was preceded in death by her two sons, Dwight in 1974 and Paul in 1977; husband, Kenneth Baur in 2000; and husband, Jack Ballard in 2020; as well as her sister, Janet Wolfe; and brother-in-law, Carl Baur.
She is survived by three daughters, Cynthia (Gil) VanNeste, Mary (Van) Wertz both of Charlotte, and Diane (David) Franz of Lansing; nine grandchildren: Rebeckah (Gabe) Carter, Rikki Nevins, Trevor Wertz, Robbyn (Andy) Roll, Kory Wertz, Julie (Eric) Pullum, Callie VanNeste, Nicholas Franz, and Sarah Franz; and seven great-grandchildren: Jade, Michaela, Hailey, William, Jaxon, Anna, and Oliver; and one great-great granddaughter, Natalea.
A private family service will be held at a later date to celebrate her life.
To view Marge’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.
James William Braden
James “Jim” William Braden, of Louisville, KY, formerly of Charlotte, MI, died on Monday, August 28, 2023, surrounded by his loving wife. Jim, 75, was born on July 6, 1948, in Charlotte, the son of Alonzo “Sparky” and Nora (Brandon) Braden. Upon graduating from Charlotte High School, Jim joined the United States Army proudly serving from 1968-1970. Once he returned home, he began working for Aluminum Extrusions, where he worked until he retired and moved to Dothan, Alabama. On December 14, 2009, Jim married Julie Ann Click and together they created many great memories. Jim was known for his beautiful singing voice and his calligraphy ability. He loved cooking and he enjoyed searching the internet for his next recipe to try out. Jim was a big Detroit Tigers, Atlanta Braves and Alabama Football fan.
Jim is survived by his wife of 13 years, Julie; sisters-in-law, Teresa French, and Paula (Gary) Smallwood; brother-in-law, Donald Zauner Lea; nephews, Donald Lee, Michael (Laura) Braden, Douglas Braden, Joshua Smallwood, and Chase (Jessica) French; nieces, Nora Braden, Ashley Snawder, and Jesse Smallwood. He was predeceased by his parents; siblings, Marguerite Braden, Judith Braden-Lee, Jack Braden, and Jill Braden Lea.
Friends are encouraged to support Jim’s family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, September 30, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. at Gresham Cemetery in Charlotte.
Sandra Jean Deupree
Sandra Jean Deupree of Eaton Rapids, MI passed away on Thursday, September 7, 2023, at the age of 86. Sandy was born on July 4, 1937, in Eaton Rapids, MI, to Edward and Carrie (Heisler) Oberlin. Her early years were spent on the family farm just outside of town while attending a quaint one-room school on Booty Hwy. During high school, Sandy was a proud member of the majorettes.
After a brief time in Arizona, she returned to Michigan and began her career, initially at Cords Food Locker and later at Eaton Stamping. Sandy eventually went to work in the paint department at General Motors where she retired.
In retirement, Sandy lived in Barryton, MI on Upper Evans Lake where she made numerous friendships and enjoyed her weekly poker games. She was passionate about her landscaping and kept a meticulous lawn and garden, which earned her accolades for their beauty. Sandy’s greatest joy in life was her role as a loving mother and grandmother. She cherished the moments spent with her family, especially doting on her grandchildren.
Sandy is survived by her children, Jodie (Roger) Kellogg, Penny Cribley, and Timothy Cribley; along with her beloved grandchildren, Shawn Kellogg, Kristy (Gavin) Kelsey, Amanda Hawkins, and Brandi Lee. She also leaves behind her great grandchildren, Kiera, Bella, Guinever, Travis, Cloe, Carson; and one sister, Sally Geisenhaver. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Richard Oberlin, Stephen Oberlin; and sister-in-law, June Oberlin.
Funeral services were held on Thursday, September 14, 2023, at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Dementia Society of America. To share memories or leave online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Billy Maker
Billy Maker, age 84, of Nashville, MI passed away peacefully on August 24, 2023, at his home. He was born in Battle Creek, MI on September 16, 1938, to Thomas and Carma (Brown) Maker. Bill and his sister Carma Jean were raised in the Nashville community.
Bill graduated from the W.K. Kellogg High School in Nashville in 1956. He married his high school sweetheart, Bonnie Sherman, in 1957.
Bill worked at Paul Automotive Auto Parts in Hastings, later he worked at Reahm’s Motor Sales in the body shop department. In 1964 he was hired at General Motors, retiring after 28 years.
Bill was always interested in old cars. He restored a 1929 Essex in high school shop class. He loved going to sprint car races. After marriage, Bill and Bonnie both enjoyed racing micro-midgets.
In later years they purchased a 1935 Ford pickup, entering it in several car shows for many years. This was Bill’s favorite toy.
The couple had two children, Billy Ray Jr. (Bernice) and Becky (Bill) Wilson; four grandchildren, Ben (Melissa) Maker, Kelly (Matt) Dunham, Max (Lisa) Wilson and Katelyn (Dale) Laverty; and ten great-grandchildren, Hartley and Maddie Maker, Allyson, Waylon, Eleanor, and Wilson Dunham, Avery and Addy Wilson, Maxton and Mayleigh Laverty.
Bill was predeceased by his son Billy Ray Jr., sister-in-law Arloa Wallace and nephew Lee Bennett.
The family is extremely grateful for the support they received from Interim Healthcare Services, especially the love from his nurse, Kailey VanEngen.
Paying tribute to a life well lived and Bill’s passion for classic cars, there will be a Celebration of Life/Cruise In on September 16, 2023, from 3 p.m.- 7 p.m. at the Nashville Church of the Nazarene. Please feel free to drive your classic car and enjoy a summer afternoon socializing and remembering our beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend.
Those attending will be treated to some of Bill’s favorite “delicacies,” including hot dogs, Myers’ Bakery donuts, and of course a cup of coffee!
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home – Nashville, conveniently located at 9200 E M79 Highway Nashville, MI. For further details please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net.