Obituaries
Lesley Anne Schantz
Lesley Anne Schantz (“Tae” to some family), age 61, of Maple Grove Township, Michigan, passed away peacefully at her home with family by her side on December 29, 2025.
Lesley was born on August 5, 1964, in Fremont, Michigan, the daughter of Joseph and Connie (McKee) Briggs. During her childhood, the family relocated to the Charlotte area and later moved to Nashville, where she graduated from Maple Valley High School in 1982.
After completing her education, Lesley attended Kellogg Community College’s nursing program, graduating in 1996 as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). She devoted over 12 years to nursing, working at Battle Creek Community Hospital and several local nursing homes. Lesley had a deep love for caring for older adults and found great fulfillment in serving others.
Lesley married and had two sons, Matthew and Donald. Later, she married Duane Schantz on August 12, 1989, at the family pond in Nashville. Together, Duane and Lesley built a life and home on the Nashville farm, creating countless memories filled with love and laughter.
Lesley treasured time with her family. She especially enjoyed her children and grandchildren and was well known for attending and cheering at every sporting event and always bringing snacks to share. Pool days at the farm were a favorite, with grandchildren and their friends swimming and playing and the freezer was always stocked with ice cream. She loved keeping everyone fed and rarely said the word “no” to her “grandbabies”. She also loved her dogs, cats, chickens, and ducks, some of which she adopted after they were found by her grandchildren.
Lesley enjoyed traveling with her cousin Lisa Briggs and experienced her first cruise this past winter. Another memorable time was a road trip through Virginia and West Virginia, including a visit to Graceland.
Lesley also enjoyed spending time doing family genealogy with her sister Shannon, whom lovingly helped care for Lesley during hard times until the very end along with Duane and her boys.
Lesley is survived by her loving husband, Duane Schantz; her children, Matthew (Angela, grandchildren Cole, Payton and Annica) Joppie and Donald (Jennifer, grandsons Owen and Chase) Joppie; stepchildren Derek Schantz and Brandon (Carmelle) Schantz; three step grandchildren; her siblings Shannon Briggs, Andrea Montgomery, and Joline Briggs; her father, Joseph Briggs, 13 nephews, one niece and many other extended family members.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Connie Briggs-McKee; her brother-in-law, Mark Montgomery; and her great-aunt, Lois Webster, “Aunt Bunny”, and her grandmother Marian McKee.
A celebration of Lesley’s life will be held at a later date.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home – Nashville, conveniently located at 9200 E M79 Hwy, Nashville, Michigan. For more information, please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net.
Virginia Jane Lowe
Virginia Jane Lowe, age 103, a lifelong resident of Eaton County, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026. Born on June 12, 1922, on the Austin Centennial Farm in Eaton County. Virginia was the daughter of Jay O. and Blanche (Cole) Austin. Raised with strong rural values, she remained deeply rooted in the Potterville–Charlotte community throughout her remarkable life.
Virginia was a respected businesswoman, serving as co-owner and operator of Lowe Brothers & Dad and Lowe Bros. & Mom in Charlotte. She was also a former Charlotte City Council Member, a longtime Treasurer of the Women’s Business Guild, a dedicated member of the Hayes Green Beach Memorial Hospital Board of Directors and its Women’s Auxiliary, a member of GFWC-Charlotte for 48 years, and an active supporter of Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. Faith played an important role in her life as she attended Potterville Methodist Church (Sycamore Church) and later Charlotte Congregational Church.
As a mother, Virginia never missed a Scouting meeting, school function, or athletic event for her sons—or for their many friends, who were always welcomed into her home. Sleepovers were frequent, meals were plentiful, and encouragement was constant. She fed and supported countless young men and faithfully attended Potterville athletic events for many years.
Virginia and Bill were married in 1950 and were partners in life and business which spanned decades. Together, they built not only successful businesses, but a home filled with warmth, hospitality, and unwavering support for family and friends. Bill, an MPGA Past President, shared Virginia’s love of community and leadership. They enjoyed extensive travel throughout the United States with their sons and were especially blessed to visit six continents together. Music filled her home and her heart—she cherished the Big Band era of the 1930s and 1940s, loved “The Sound of Music,” and spent many happy hours listening to Lawrence Welk and watching “Little House on the Prairie,” “MASH*”, and Dr. Pohl, all while keeping up with current events.
Virginia was a devoted mother to her sons, Charles A. Lowe, David W. (Marie) Lowe and Richard C. (Dee Dee) Lowe, and daughter, Mary Margaret Lowe and took immense pride in their accomplishments, including David’s service as an MPGA Past President and Richard’s distinguished career as an attorney.
Above all, Virginia was known as a compassionate listener. She offered guidance gently, without judgment or prejudice, providing thoughtful counsel to friends, family, business associates, and especially to David and Richard as they navigated life’s journeys. She often remarked how fortunate she felt to have lived such a full and blessed life, rich in experiences, relationships, and cherished memories. Her impact on family generations spans more than lifetime.
She is also survived by sons, David W. (Marie) Lowe; and Richard C. (Dee Dee) Lowe; grandchildren, Alexander C. (Staci) Lowe;, Lance W. (Tara) Lowe, Matthew R. Lowe, and Calli OP (Bryce) Becker; great-grandchildren Tyson D. Lowe, Brady A. Lowe, Ethan Lowe, Austin S. Lowe, and Rosalee Lowe; and great-great-granddaughter, Rayna K. Lowe; step-great-grandchildren, Jennifer (Jeff) Heath, Gabrielle Hall, Aurora (Nate) Powers, Cole Harris, and Bay Harris; step-great-grandchildren, Brooklyn Heath and Carter Heath; and great-great-grandson Bair; and nieces, Kathryn (Ruben) Doumanian, Kathleen (David) Dittman, Karen (Michael) Miller, Kristine (Randall) Wilger, Deborah (David) Jakubiec, Jennifer (Daniel) Thorwall, and Robin (Louis) Marchio. Her legacy of love spans generations.
Virginia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William “Bill” C. Lowe; son, Charles A. Lowe; daughter, Mary Margaret Lowe; granddaughters Elizabeth M. Lowe and Brandy A. Lowe; her parents; her brother, Richard O. Austin and his wife, Lillian; and her in-laws, Calvin P. and Velda (Robinson) Lowe.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the hospice nurses and caregivers who assisted Virginia over the past several years, especially Tara Lowe and Carol Taylor of Hospice of Lansing, for their compassionate dedication.
Virginia Jane Lowe lived a century marked by service, strength, grace, and steadfast love. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the community she faithfully served for decades.
The Lowe family will be holding a private graveside service at a later date. Friends are encouraged to support Virginia’s family by sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Lansing, 3186 Pinetree Road., Lansing, MI 48911, and Eaton Community Palliative Care. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Ann Griffin
Ann Griffin, a beloved and cherished wife, mom, sister, aunt, and grandmother, passed away February 7, 2026 at the age of 86. Born April 23, 1939, in Charlotte, Michigan, Ann was known for her kind-hearted, generous, and selfless nature.
In October of 1968, Ann married her husband, Ted, and they shared 47 loving and faithful years of marriage, raising two beautiful children to whom she dedicated her life.
Ann attended and graduated from Spring Arbor College. She was very active in her church, demonstrating her servant and helpful qualities through her involvement. Ann was a devoted homemaker, nursing assistant, and daycare attendant for many years. Her career was marked by her hardworking, Christian spirit, which she carried into all areas of her life.
In her personal time, Ann loved gardening and cooking, activities that brought joy to her life and to those around her. During Thanksgiving and Christmas, Ann delighted in a cherished family tradition – bringing everyone together around a jigsaw puzzle that was worked on and enjoyed by all. Her faithful and brave nature left a lasting legacy that will be remembered by all who knew her.
Ann will be lovingly remembered by her son, Greg (Karyn) Griffin; granddaughter, Kait Halverson; daughter, Holly (Neeraj) Bhargava; grandchildren Griffin and Ellora Bhargava; sister, Jean (Gene) Fields; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
A celebration of life will be held in the spring; please check back for dates and times. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Dementia Society of America in Ann’s honor: (https://www.weremember.com/ann-griffin/3c7x/memories). Condolences may be shared at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in the family’s online guestbook.
Denise Lynn Riddle
Denise Lynn Riddle, age 74, passed away on February 18, 2026.
Denise was born on April 17, 1951, in Charlotte, Michigan, to George W. Riddle and Phyllis Goodrich Riddle. She graduated from Charlotte High School with the Class of 1970 and always looked forward to attending her high school reunions over the years.
Denise found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved spending time at the cabin on Crystal Lake and especially enjoyed watching her nephews race their dirt bikes. She cherished playing cards with friends, sharing laughter and good company, and had a true passion for scrapbooking, preserving memories that will now be treasured even more deeply by those who loved her.
She is survived by her siblings, Geoffrey (Diana) Riddle and Dale (Amber) Wendel; her sister-in-law, Darlene Riddle; her close friend, Shelly Roush; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
Denise was preceded in death by her mother, Phyllis (Goodrich) Wendel; her father, George Riddle; her stepmother, Wilma “Billie” Riddle; her brother, George Riddle; her sisters, Barb Rieben and Karole Bartlett; and her brothers-in-law, Jim Rieben and Roy Bartlett.
In accordance with her wishes, no services will be held.
She will be remembered for her love of family, her loyalty to friends, and the many memories she created with those fortunate enough to know her.
Carl Henry Wolf Sr.
Carl Henry Wolf Sr., age 78 of Eaton Rapids, passed away on February 12, 2026, in Lansing, Michigan. He was born on August 5, 1947, in Albion, Michigan, to LeRoy and Roberta (Williams) Wolf. Carl lived a life filled with love, dedication, and service, leaving behind a legacy cherished by his family and friends.
Carl attended Olivet Schools and graduated from Olivet High School with the class of 1968. Following his education, he devoted part of his life to serving his country honorably in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, where he was stationed in Germany. As a mechanic, he took pride in repairing helicopters, airplanes, and other equipment that had been damaged in the war.
In his professional career, Carl worked as a security guard for Centurion, providing safety and assurance at MSU games. He later retired from Spartan Motors. He was affectionately known among his colleagues as the “candy man,” always sharing a variety of sweets with those around him, brightening their days with his kind generosity.
Carl was a man fondly remembered for his ever-present smile and warm demeanor. He held his family in the highest regard, loving his children, stepchildren, and grandchildren unconditionally, making no distinctions between them. He found great joy and fulfillment in being surrounded by his loved ones, and family was paramount in his life.
In his younger years, Carl enjoyed the outdoors, spending time hunting and fishing. He also was an avid bowler and participated in various bowling leagues, often playing at Char-Lanes.
Carl is survived by his loving wife, Kathleen; his sons, Carl Wolf Jr. and Nikolas (Samantha Corso) Wolf; stepsons, Jim Williams and Jeff Williams; 12 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and his sister, Carolyn (Alan) Shumaker. He is also missed by his two beloved dogs, Charlie and Angel.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Connie Mulder; his niece, Minnie Michelle Menzer; and his stepson, John Williams.
Funeral services were held at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home, 206 W. Lawrence Ave, Charlotte, MI on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 6 p.m. with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. Visitation took place for two hours prior to the funeral service.
Those desiring to make contributions in Carl’s memory may do so by donating to the family.
To view Carl’s obituary online or to leave condolences for the family, please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Lawrence Wayne Musser
Lawrence “Larry” Wayne Musser, a man known for his strong work ethic and steady dedication to those around him, passed away peacefully at his residence with family by his side, on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the age of 95.
Larry was born on April 6, 1930, the son of Dewey and Leah (Viaches) Musser. Tragically, his mother passed away just eight days after his birth, and he was lovingly raised by his father and stepmother, Mable. From an early age, Larry learned the value of hard work – a lesson that stayed with him throughout his life. Larry was a graduate of Vermontville High School in 1948. On June 17, 1950, he married Barbara Joppie and they spent the next 62 years creating lasting memories until her passing in 2012. Larry out of high school worked for General Motors for two years before following his father to East Jordan where he opened a Gas Station. He later would move back to Vermontville where he worked as a mechanic. He spent a majority of his career at the Maple Valley School District as the head mechanic and bus garage supervisor. He retired as a transportation supervisor in 1986 after 34 years. In 1962 Larry built the family cabin in Barryton, Michigan, a cabin where the family would spend their summers. He also enjoyed ice skating, hunting, fishing, and traveling to Texas to spend time with family.
He was happiest when staying busy and could often be found tinkering with lawn mowers or working on a project. A longtime resident of Vermontville, Larry took great pride in his community. He especially enjoyed attending the annual Vermontville Syrup Festival and frequently welcomed friends and visitors into his home to watch the parade, creating memories filled with laughter, tradition, and connection. Larry made maple syrup for many years with family and neighbors in their homemade sugar shanty back in the woods. He enjoyed his coffee and sweet treats such as pie and cookies. Above all Larry’s proudest accomplishment in life was his family and his strong work ethic.
Larry is survived by his son, David (Sue) Musser, 12 grandchildren Rachel (Drew Pixley) Shook, Chris (Angie) Musser, Derek (Alicia) Musser, Kyle (Tamara Izzo) Musser, Garrett (Nicole) Musser, Jordan (Tami) Musser, Jason (Justine) Musser, Leah (Aaron) Nordell, Jessie (Ryan) Durban, Macy (Ian) Ekery, Madi (Austin) Bowen, and Autumn (Scott) Thomas; 23 great-grandchildren; 14 great-great-grandkids; and special friend Tillie Kilgore. He was predeceased by his wife, Barbara (Joppie) Musser; sons Larry Neil Musser, Garry Musser; daughters Brenda Lynch and Diane Priesman; siblings Elaine Foote, Anita Boutwell, Dewey Musser, Jr., June Shellenberger, Ruth Roberts and Arnold Musser; and parents Dewey, Leah and Mable Musser,
Friends are encouraged to support Larry’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Sunday, February 22, from 2 to 4 p.m., and 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral services are Monday, February 23, 2026, at noon, Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Crystal Fox. officiating. 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 Larry’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Maple Valley Memorial Scholarship Foundation. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Steven Gordon Nobach
Steven Gordon Nobach, 73, of Eaton Rapids, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, February 16, 2026.
Steve was born on September 15, 1952, in Lansing, Michigan, to Gordon and Patricia (Merlington) Nobach. He was raised in Eaton Rapids, where he attended local schools and graduated with the Class of 1970. Following graduation, Steve began working at Oldsmobile, dedicating four years to the company before embracing his independent spirit and choosing to work for himself.
In 1974, Steve married the love of his life, Sue Kinyon. Together they built a life grounded in faith, family, and farming. Steve farmed throughout the Eaton Rapids area, raising dairy cows and cattle while working the land through crop farming. In the late 1980s, he moved his family to Prince Edward Island, Canada, where he operated a dairy farm and earned recognition for his excellence, including the “Most Improved Dairy Herd” award, along with numerous other accolades honoring his dedication and success.
In the late 1990s, Steve returned to Eaton Rapids and continued expanding his farming operations, eventually accumulating multiple farms throughout Eaton and Ingham counties. A true outdoorsman, he was an avid hunter in his younger years and maintained a lifelong passion for big buck hunting. He also enjoyed playing softball and competed for First Baptist Church and Arvid’s teams in Eaton Rapids.
Steve proudly described himself as an entrepreneur and was always looking toward the next opportunity. He was generous with his time and resources, supporting community efforts such as the Eaton Rapids Teen Center and the Eaton Rapids Development Corporation. A devoted member of First Baptist Church of Eaton Rapids for many years, his faith remained a steady foundation throughout his life.
Above all, Steve was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He cherished time spent with his family, often hosting gatherings and bonfires on the farm. He rarely missed his grandchildren’s sporting events and became affectionately known at varsity basketball games as “Dancing Grandpa Nobach,” bringing laughter, joy, and unforgettable energy to the stands.
Steve is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Sue Nobach; his son, John (Maggie) Nobach; daughters, Jenny (Douglas) Blattner, Laura (John Eldridge) Nobach, and Bonnie (Mike) Davis; grandchildren, Victoria (Danny) Arnold, Alexandria Hodges, Braylon Nobach, Easton Nobach, Blaine Nobach, Gabriella Davis, Jackson Davis, Tyla Cornick, Isaiah Cornick, Kaliyah Cornick, Colin Comer and Sophia Comer; his brother, Rick Nobach; his sister, Shann (Tracy) Spence; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Funeral services will be held at noon on Friday, February 20, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Eaton Rapids, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. at the church. A luncheon will follow the service. Those who wish may make memorial contributions in Steve’s memory to a charity of their choice. To share memories or leave online condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Donna Marie Lawrence
Donna Marie Lawrence, of Eaton Rapids, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at the age of 77.
Donna was born on September 30, 1948, in Minford, Ohio, to Floyd and Catherine (Tope) Crabtree. She was raised in Ohio and graduated from high school in 1967. She later moved to Michigan, where she attended Andrews College and, in 1976, married the love of her life, Lyle Lawrence.
Committed to caring for others, Donna returned to school at Lansing Community College to pursue her calling in nursing. After earning her degree and becoming a registered nurse, she dedicated many years of faithful service to patients and families at Eaton Rapids Medical Center.
Donna was a longtime and devoted member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Charlotte, where she formed many cherished friendships and especially enjoyed singing during worship services. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—shopping with her daughter, watching QVC, crocheting, and spending time with those she loved most.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Lyle Lawrence; her daughter, Alyce Blackmer; and her siblings, Arthur Crabtree, Virginia Crabtree, James Crabtree, Jeannie Crabtree, and Robert Crabtree.
Donna is lovingly remembered by her children, William (Kayla) Lawrence, Robert (Tamara) Lawrence, and Kathleen Lawrence; her son-in-law, Scott (Deb) Blackmer; her grandchildren, Russell, Beth, Ben, Taylor, Dennis, Alan, Alyssa, Alyna, Jody, Justin, and Tiffany; her brother, Franklin Crabtree; her sisters, Myrtle Mullens and Ruby Durham; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids. The family received friends beginning at 10 a.m., and a meal was held following burial.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Charlotte or the Parkinson’s Foundation in memory of Donna. Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Mark Stephen Dumeney
It is with deep love and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mark Stephen Dumeney, a devoted father, proud grandfather, faithful servant of God, and honorable veteran. Mark passed away peacefully on the First of February 2026.
Mark Dumeney proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, dedicating many years of honorable service before retiring. His commitment to duty, integrity, and excellence defined not only his military career but his entire life.
Following his retirement from the Air Force, Mark Dumeney continued serving his community by working with medical transportation companies, ensuring patients arrived safely to the care they needed. He approached this work with compassion and patience, always understanding the importance of kindness during vulnerable moments.
A man of deep faith, Mark Dumeney loved spreading the Word of God and living out his beliefs through action. He faithfully volunteered at local food pantries and soup kitchens, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. His generosity, humility, and servant’s heart touched countless lives.
He also had a passion for sports and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his favorite team, the Michigan State Spartans. Whether watching a game surrounded by family or discussing the latest season highlights, his enthusiasm was contagious.
Above all, Mark Dumeney cherished his family. As a father, he provided guidance, strength, and unwavering love. As a grandfather, he offered wisdom, laughter, and stories that will be treasured for generations. His legacy of service, faith, and dedication will live on in all who knew him.
He is survived by his Son, Nathaniel Dumeney (spouse Jacinda), Daughter, Melissa Connors; his grandchildren, Joshua Connors (spouse Hannah), Jenna Connors, Kolton Elliston, Jayla Dumeney, and Jordana Dumeney; his great-grandson, Jameson Connors; Siblings, Gary Dumeney, Dianne Morris, and Dan Dumeney, as well as his many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Preceding Mark in death are his father and mother, Howard and Betty Dumeney, his brothers, Mike and Larry Dumeney, and his nephew Randy Morris.
The family will release details for the celebration of life/memorial, which will take place in the spring of 2026.
Clifford Anthony Mazzoni
Clifford Anthony Mazzoni, a strongheaded Italian man who loved his family, died on February 17, 2026, at the age of 77 at Eaton Community Palliative Care. Clifford was born in Santa Monica, California to Harold and Ruth (True) Mazzoni on September 8, 1948.
Cliff married Reina Reed on October 7, 1972, and together they raised two children, Troy and Tobi. He served in the U.S. Army 25th Infantry and the 2nd Battalion 27th from 1968-1974. He worked for Fisher Body and retired from General Motors Delta Plant in 2011. Cliff was a member of the Mid-Michigan Street Rod Association and the Family Motorcycle Club. He enjoyed his Harley bikes, building StreetRod cars and Lions football and Tigers baseball. Most of all, Cliff loved his grandchildren and his daughter with his whole heart. He will be deeply missed.
Cliff is survived by his daughter, Tobi (Justin) Brummette; grandchildren Sadie (fiancé, Spencer Glandon) Brummette, Marcie (fiancé, Kevin Rose) Brummette; and great-grandson, Earl Glandon. He was predeceased by his wife, Reina; son, Troy Mazzoni; and his parents.
Friends are encouraged to support Cliff’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Monday, February 23, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral services are Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Laura Cooper officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Eaton Community Palliative Care. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.