Obituaries
Evelyn J. Rigelman
Evelyn J. Rigelman, 96, of Olivet, Michigan, passed away on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at Calhoun County Medical Care Facility. She was born in Marshall, Michigan on April 9, 1927, the daughter of Clyde and Julia (Powers) Churchill.
Evelyn was a graduate of Marshall High School, Class of 1944 in Marshall, MI. She met Elsworth D. Rigelman “Al” while he was working on her family’s farm. They married in Angola, Indiana, on November 18, 1949, and together celebrated 67 years of marriage before he passed away on November 5, 2016. Evelyn worked outside the home at both Kellogg’s and O&I before raising her family at home. She enjoyed vegetable gardening, and her cats, but most of all her family.
Evelyn is survived by her three children, Steven (Jean) Rigelman of Olivet, Mike Rigelman of Olivet, Robert Rigelman of Lansing; grandchildren, Nicole (Brad) Baker of Olivet, Kristi (Bob) Janvrin of Marshall, Phillip Rigelman (Amy Whitcomb) of Olivet; five great-grandchildren, Lydia (Anthony) Twichell, Lilly, Levi, Landon, and Andrew. Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband, and parents.
Relatives and friends were received on Monday, August 14, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 723 US Hwy 27 N, Marshall, MI 49068. A funeral service celebrating the life of Evelyn took place at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Rev. Dr. James M. Gysel of Lee Center United Methodist Church officiating. Interment will follow at Rice Creek Cemetery, Marshall, MI. Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to donate to a charity of one’s choice. Please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guest book or to leave the family condolences.
Harold Williams, Jr.
Harold Williams, Jr., a hard-working and dedicated farmer, father, grandfather, and friend, died peacefully on Sunday, August 13, 2023. Harold was born September 27, 1927, in Charlotte, the son of Harold Loomis and Etta Elizabeth (Remington) Williams. He attended Olivet High School. On April 4, 1946, he embarked on a beautiful journey of love and partnership when he married Alice Day. Harold lovingly described her as “the love of his life,” a sentiment that encapsulated the deep bond they shared throughout their years together. In fact, Alice and Harold entered the gates of Heaven only months apart.
Harold and Alice moved to Okemos shortly after their marriage, where Harold went to work farming on his uncle’s farm. He rounded his busy work-life with working part time at local slaughterhouses, and tending the grounds at East Lawn Cemetery. In 1966, Harold and Alice decided to move back to the Olivet area, where they bought Alice’s family farm on Bradley Road. Together, they raised crops and their two sons. Harold was an exquisite gardener. He loved time spent in the outdoors, especially raising vegetable and flower gardens to perfection, and in the woods hunting deer.
Harold is survived by his sons, David Williams and Lynn Williams; grandchildren, Scott Williams and Deanna Miller; great-grandchildren, Madison Williams, Jersey Gaedert, Simon Miller, and Nathanael Miller; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and his siblings, Audrey, Wava, Gleason, Romah, and Garry.
Friends are encouraged to support Harold’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation and Memorial Service dates will be available at www.prayfuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Elaine Joyce Page
Elaine Joyce Page, a strong, independent, cancer survivor, died on Sunday, August 13, 2023. Elaine 91, of Charlotte, was born December 3, 1931, in Lansing, MI. the daughter of Neil and Florence (Halsey) Sprague. She grew up on a farm in Potterville and later graduated from Potterville High School in 1949. On September 23, 1950, Elaine married the love of her life, Don Page. Elaine was so proud of her family’s strong military and police background; she was proud that she was a daughter of The American Revolution. She is retried from Carl’s Supermarket in Potterville. Elaine was very talented, she was known for making countless wedding cakes, as well as her seamstress abilities and making her children’s clothing. Other hobbies for her included swimming, bowling, and spending time with her family. Elaine was very proud of her strong Christian beliefs.
Elaine is survived by her children, Chris Miller, Cindy Page, and Peggy Whitson (Bruce Goodwin who also was Elaine’s caretaker); grandchildren, Shani (John) Shannon, Harvest (Trevor) Bosworth, Angel (Nathan) Shain, Autumn Waterman, and Forest (Melissa) Whitson; great-grandchildren, Haven, Sage, Rhyan, Ruby, Ava, Micah, Liam, and Myla; sisters, Marie Backus, and Nancy (Alan) VandenBerg; and her beloved cat, Jenks. She was predeceased by her husband; her parents; and brother, Dale Sprague.
Friends are encouraged to support Elaine’s family by sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Cremation is taking place and then Elaine will be interred at Benton Township Cemetery next to her husband. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Saved by Zade. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Julia Ann Foreman
Julia Ann Foreman of Jackson, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on August 14, 2023, at the age of 58, after a short battle with cancer. Julia was born in Mt. Clemons, Michigan on December 2, 1964, the daughter of Phillip Schamehorn and the late Mary (Moore) Kikendall. She had many hobbies over the years, such as gardening, baking, going to the beach, and car shows, but most of all, she cherished her role as Grandma. Julia loved her grandchildren and spending time with them whenever she could. Julia was an avid university of Michigan football fan and enjoyed spending her Saturday afternoons watching the games. She was dedicated to customer service, working for many years as a manager at Hutch’s, a greeting card merchandiser at Grand Greeting Cards, and waitress at The Coachlight Inn.
She is survived by her loving husband, Douglas Foreman of Jackson; children, Juan (Courtney) Schamehorn of Grand Ledge, Jessica (Ben Sisa) Grider of The Jeep, James (Ashley) Grider of Chesapeake, VA; grandchildren, Jade Schamehorn, Addison Schamehorn, Marcus Schamehorn, Jadrian Grider; father, Phillip (Martha) Schamehorn; siblings, Carolyn (Larry) Siefert of Springport, Phillip (Emily) Schamehorn of Ft. Wayne, IN; stepsiblings, Anita and Kelly; beloved dog, Lucy. Julia is preceded in death by her mother, Mary (Moore) Kikendall; brother, Barry Frasier.
Funeral Services were held at Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids on Friday August 18, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. Visitation was Thursday from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Lone Star Dog Ranch Rescue, 10030 County Road 288, Anna, TX in loving memory of Julia Ann Foreman. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website, www.millsfuneral.com.
Carol Lynn Seitler
Carol Lynn Seitler of Eaton Rapids passed away August 9, 2023, at the age of 76. She was born in Marshall, Michigan on June 28, 1947, the daughter of Russell and Geraldine (Bowers) Hornbeck. Carol’s greatest passion was her family and grandchildren, she loved attending the kids’ sporting events and spending as much time with them as possible. She was a jack of all trades and was very mechanically inclined, there wasn’t much Carol couldn’t do. In her free time, she enjoyed going to the casino, watching true crime TV, and playing with her beloved dogs.
Carol is survived by her spouse, Homer Seitler; children, Dawn Brockway, Brian (Stephanie) Macomber, Sheryl (Fred) Lightner, Linda (Ronnie McBrayer) Gay; 19 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren; sister, Charla (Howard) Olds. She is preceded in death by her parents; son, Jack Hornbeck; granddaughter, April Hornbeck.
A Memorial Visitation was held at Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel on August 12, 2023. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society in loving memory of Carol Lynn Seitler. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.
Kathleen Ann Brooks
Kathleen Ann Brooks of Winthrop, Arkansas, passed away August 7, 2023, at the age of 77. Kathleen was born in Albion, MI on March 30, 1946, the daughter of Charles “Bud” and Frances (Adams) Sebastian. She worked at Eaton Stamping before moving to Arkansas, where she would earn her nursing degree in 1985. Kathleen worked as a nurse at De Queen Hospital and was a dedicated nurse for many years as well as a caregiver for many of her family members. She was a member of the Springport Ladies Auxiliary 6056 for 55 years, enjoyed bowling, listening to music, and singing. Kathleen was very outgoing and knew everyone, you could always find her at a local bar or restaurant socializing.
She is survived by her siblings, Tom (Marlene) Sebastian of Springport, Charles “Buddy” (Debra) Sebastian of Albion, Linda Fuller of Eaton Rapids; sisters-in-law, Tina Sebastian of Springport, Louise (Dicky) Rogers of Texas; brother-in-law, Gerald Brooks of Arkansas; stepsons, Greg Brooks of Arkansas, Guy Brooks of Arkansas; stepdaughters, Gretta (Kelly) Harris of Arkansas, Gayla (Kirby) Irvan of Arkansas; close family friends, Jill Tiner and Brianna Nichols of Arkansas, as well as several nieces and nephews. Kathleen is preceded in death by her parents; husband, T. L. Brooks in 2015; brother, Bill Sebastian; infant son, John Smith.
Services will be held at Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel on August 15, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. with visitation one hour prior to the service from 10-11 a.m. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to Eaton County Medical Care Facility or Springport Ladies Auxiliary 6056 in loving memory of Kathleen Ann Brooks. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.
Eleanor A. Lacasse
Eleanor A. Lacasse, age 77, of Eaton Rapids, Michigan passed away on July 26, 2023. Services honoring her life will be held, weather permitting, on August 20, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at the United Church of God, An International Association, located at 7868 Old M-78 (Lansing Road) in East Lansing, Michigan. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m. prior to the service. Memorial contributions can be directed to St. Jude’s Childrens Hospital.
Norman David Cascaddan
Norman David Cascaddan passed away on August 3, 2023, after a brief illness at the age of 66. Norman was born on June 21, 1957, in Clare, MI. Norman was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin and Teasil (Dunkle) Cascaddan, along with his sister Ruby, brother Richard, and sister-in-law Gale.
He graduated from Evertt High School in Lansing, Michigan, with the class of 1976. Throughout his life, Norman enjoyed golfing and playing video games. In 1998, Norman married his best friend, Trudy Rolfe, and together they raised four children over 25 years. Norman worked in various industries including G.M, Dedos, and Dowding before retiring from Alro Steel.
Norman will be dearly missed by his wife, Trudy Jo (Rolfe-Comer-Stoken) Cascaddan; his children: Emily (Travis) Wright, Jason Comer, Josh (Jesse) Comer, and Jessica (Jason Hicks) Comer; and his grandchildren: Ryan Comer, Colin Comer, Sophie Comer, and Cassandra Comer. Norman is also survived by siblings: Ruth (Dale) Laplow, Judy (Jim) Laplow, and Jean (Craig) Thomas.
Memorial services celebrating Norman’s life are being decided at this time. Should you wish to make a donation, please choose your favorite pet rescue organization on Norman’s behalf. Arrangements entrusted to Vickers Leslie Funeral Home, 109 N. Church Street/PO Box 503, Leslie, MI 49251. 517-878-6600.
Wilma “Jean” Priesman
Wilma “Jean” Priesman, an excellent baker that loved to share her delicious baked goods with others, died August 7, 2023 in Charlotte at the age of 92. Jean was born March 6, 1931 in Charlotte to Theron and Ora Mae (Burdick) Griffin. As a younger woman, she loved to garden and cook and often used the delicious fruits she would collect in her baked goods. She was well known for her apple and blueberry pies, and she loved to share them with her family and her neighbors. Jean was very particular about several things, especially her appearance and making sure her clothes always coordinated beautifully. She worked for Charlotte Public Schools as a Secretary for the Community Education Coordinator, Eldred Toutant. After retiring from the schools, she became a rural mail carrier for several years. Jean was a happy person, a fabulous cook, and a proud mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.
Jean is survived by her daughters, Terri Craft, Debbie (Phil) Fisher, and Trudy (Rod) Lea; step-children, Bill, Dan, and Rick Priesman; seven grandchildren; seven step grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild; sister, Marilyn (Roger) Grove; and her caregiver, Allison Westbrook that the family loved and appreciated so very much because she always treated Jean like family. She was predeceased by her husband, Doug Schultz in 2002; second husband, Dick Priesman in 2003; son, Randy Schultz in 2007; and granddaughter, Billie Jo Day in 2022.
Friends are encouraged to support Jean’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Friday, August 18, 10:00 a.m. – 12 noon with a Memorial Service immediately following at 12 noon at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. The service 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 Jean’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 Eaton County Health and Rehab Services. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
William (“Bill”) John Powell
William (“Bill”) John Powell, born January 1, 1940 was taken into the arms of his Heavenly Father on July 22, 2023. In his earthly death he is now reunited with his loving and faithful parents, Wilbur Edward Powell and Margaret Elizabeth Binder, who adopted him when he was eight years old and who preceded him in death.
Bill graduated from Jackson High School in 1958. He lived 50 years in Jackson before moving to Charlotte, MI where he lived for the past 26 years in the company of his beloved partner, Debbie LaPaugh. In his younger years Bill was very active in sports including baseball, basketball, and football. He spent 20 years as a Michigan high school and college referee. More recently he also enjoyed playing on senior leagues for golf and bowling in Charlotte.
Bill is also survived by his two daughters, Denise Powell Montebello and Jennifer Powell Ramsay, both of West Michigan; children from his first marriage to Karen Darby; grandchildren, Emily Montebello and Michael Montebello, both of England, Natalie Ramsay and Reid Ramsay, both of West Michigan; his first great-grandchild, Solomon Montebello (8 months) of England; his sister, Judy Lightheart Lester of California; stepsons Jeremiah LaPaugh of Elwell and Andy (Jennifer) LaPaugh of Olivet; and step-grandchildren Linkin, Lyla and Kamden LaPaugh of Olivet. He also leaves behind his two precious German Shepherds, Dakota and Ellie, who brought him much joy, purpose and comfort each day.
Bill will be lovingly remembered by all of his family and friends as a man of great humor and energy, always pushing himself physically to do more. After living with chronic pain for years, he is free at last to rejoice in the presence of his savior Jesus Christ without affliction and in the fullness of His glory, Hallelujah! In his final days he repeatedly sang this hymn:
Coming home, coming home, Nevermore to roam,
Open wide Thine arms of love Lord, I’m coming home.
Cremation has taken place and interment at Hillcrest Cemetery in Jackson will be decided at a later date.