Obituaries
Lucille Irene Wilson
Lucille Irene Wilson, 85, of Grand Ledge, Michigan, died Sunday, March 9, 2006.
Graveside services will be held Saturday, April 11, 2026 at 11 a.m. at the Benton Township Cemetery, Potterville, Michigan.
The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Sharon Marie Williams
Sharon Marie Williams of Marshall, MI passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on March 2, 2026. At just 60 years of age, she left this world after a valiant month-long battle with a severe viral pneumonia.
Sharon was born October 17, 1965 in Pontiac, Michigan to Robert E. and Joan E. Martin. A city girl with a dream of living on a farm, her dream came true when she met her [now] husband Todd Williams, when he showed up one day with his friend Doug Forraht (who is now married to her twin sister) to Sharon’s home in Sterling Heights.
Doug and Todd were visiting their friend, Jeff Maddux, who happened to live next to the twins, Sharon and Suzy. Jeff knew Doug and Todd were looking for romance and said, “You should meet my neighbors.”
There were immediate sparks, Sharon with Todd and Suzy with Doug. A first date was set – one that, to many, might seem inconceivable. Todd and Doug took the twins to Dave O’Daniel’s farm in Leroy Township. It wasn’t just a tour. Sharon and Suzy helped corral, vaccinate, castrate and process 400 piglets. Talk about immersing them in farm life! Any other girls would have walked–if not run– away, never to return from such a date, but not Sharon and Suzy. They were devoted to their vision of a life on a farm. They also came to recognize that the hard-working young men they had met would provide them not with an easy life, but a life of sincere commitment and unparalleled fulfillment.
Sharon completed her bachelor’s degree at MSU and not only worked on the farm but also supported it with off-farm income and crucial health insurance. She began an impressive career spanning numerous positions over the years, including working as a Nottawa Creek watershed coordinator, MAEAP technician, MSU cooperative extension, Farm Bureau agriculture labor department, Calhoun County drain office, and finally as a crop insurance adjuster. Sharon was a dedicated and capable worker and excelled in every position she held. Then, when she got home from work each day, she would head outside and work on the farm until dark.
Sharon loved life on the farm. She loved sunsets, searching for unique stones, maintaining the yard, gardening, and spending time with her dogs. She was skilled and efficient with nearly every piece of machinery on the farm. She loved to rake hay, pick up bales, cut firewood, and feed cattle. Sharon was a master trapper. She spent considerable time in the fields placing conibear traps to remove countless woodchucks– cute, furry, but also smelly and destructive creatures that decimated the farm’s soybean crop year after year. Her record was 137 trapped in one summer.
In addition, she kept records, paid bills, replaced the flooring in the kitchen, and completed many renovations and DIY projects. Sharon was a force to be reckoned with on the farm and likely did more work than the rest of her family combined.
Sharon had a heart for service and helping others. She spent many hours creating a model of the Albion ethanol plant, still used in Olivet FFA’s agricultural literacy day. For several years she planned and built the Olivet FFA exhibit in Floral Hall at the Calhoun County Fair, as well as volunteered at the Fredonia Grange Stand and Miracle of Life tent there. She consistently offered to judge at and train FFA students for contests. While her children were in school she could always be counted on for whatever was needed. Devoting limitless hours to these causes never phased her. Sharon was always ready and willing to help.
For all of those who knew her, Sharon was a ray of sunshine– a kind and caring friend who greeted all with a smile. She had an enormous heart for her family, friends, and anyone who was in need. Those who were lucky enough to know her knew they had someone who would listen, empathize, support, and encourage. In her professional life she engaged with her clients to such an extent that many became lifelong friends. She loved playing with and spoiling her grandson, Jasper, and her dog children, Tess and Bear. The trips she planned with family and friends were epic, memorable, and beautiful. The bonds Sharon formed with family and friends were strong. She was kind, compassionate and loyal. Anyone who knew her was better for it.
P.S. Sharon Williams, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, aunt, sister, friend, farmer, and caretaker for her family, set the bar high. Her passing is a tragedy, if only because her life was extraordinary. Though she is no longer with us, she is branded in the hearts and minds of those closest to her. Life will not be the same without her in it, but the time she was in our lives will be forever cherished. We love and miss you Sharon, and know you are in a better place, now and for eternity. This is not goodbye, just see you later.
She was preceded in death by her parents Robert and Joan Martin, and her brother Mike. She is survived by her husband Todd, children John and Anna, siblings Cindy (Dan) Gothard, Rick (Ruth) Martin, Steve (Amber) Martin, and her twin sister Suzy (Doug) Forraht, and her grandchild Jasper. She also has many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.
A celebration of her life is planned for March 21 at the Williams Farm in Lee Township (in the case of severe weather, it may be moved to the Lee Township Hall). A visitation will be held from 10 a.m., followed immediately by a service at 11:30 a.m., and then a luncheon. Memorial donations can be made to the Olivet FFA.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services. Please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guestbook, and to share memories and pictures with the family.
Maxine Florence Green
Maxine Florence Green of Charlotte passed away March 4, 2026, at the age of 84. Maxine was born at home in Brookfield Township, Michigan on May 5, 1941, the daughter of George and Ruth (Stevens) Gettys.
She married the love of her life, Jerry, on November 9, 1957. Maxine and Jerry built a family and spent many wonderful years together before his passing in 2017.
She enjoyed taking care of her grandchildren and all the neighborhood kids. Maxine liked to keep busy in her spare time. She enjoyed crocheting, sewing and picking up bottles on the side of the road.
Maxine is survived by her children, Mary Lou McHaney, Jerry Green Jr., Rose (Alan) Yokeum; grandchildren, Sadie Yokeum, Andrea (Brad) Piepkow, Teia (Phil) Milligan, Jerry (Autumn) Green III; great grandchildren, Thomas, Caleb, Kaitlyn, Isabell, Tyler, Peyton, Quinten, Garrett, Kaydence, Adalynn, Amelia, Jace; great-great grandchild, Za’ Veah. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jerry Green Sr.; grandchildren, Sara McHaney, Nathan McHaney; son-in-law, Tom McHaney; siblings, Baby Gettys, Tom, David, Richard, Marie, Marian, Delores, Janet.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan in loving memory of Maxine Florence Green. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.
Nancy E. Myers
Nancy E. Myers, 89, of Bellevue, Michigan, passed away on March 4th, 2026, at home, surrounded by her loving family.
Nancy was born on May 28th, 1936, in Lansing, Michigan, to Frank Alman Whitney Sr. and Flossie Beatrice Whitney (Hicks). Nancy was a proud graduate of Lansing JW Sexton High School.
Following graduation, Nancy married the love of her life, Alan Douglas Myers Sr. Nancy and Alan raised six children together, building a beautiful legacy. Nancy’s greatest joy in life was her family. She enjoyed supporting each of her children in their various sporting events, music/band concerts and clubs that they participated in.
Nancy and Alan celebrated 60 years of marriage together in 2014. Throughout their retirement years, they enjoyed traveling the United States and spending the winter months at their home in Florida. Nancy retired from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation in 1998, after 20 years of service. Nancy was an avid Detroit Tigers Fan and was able to enjoy her 89th birthday at a Detroit Tigers game. Nancy enjoyed reading, gardening, shopping, spending time with friends, attending her children and grandchildren’s sporting events, concerts, recitals and competitions.
Making friends came naturally to Nancy. Her spirit, smile and humor made everyone she knew feel connected and loved. This last year, Nancy had three special individuals in her life that provided comfort, love and support.
Nancy is survived by her children: Alan Douglas (Kathryn Strang) Myers Jr. of Kalkaska Michigan; Mishelle Lee Myers of Battle Creek Michigan; Marcia Lynn (Joseph) Osborne of Hillman, Michigan; Kevin Christian Myers of Rocheport, Missouri; Anjanette Elaine (Douglas) Webb of Battle Creek, Michigan; and Elizabeth Ann (Kurt) Wygant of Bellevue, Michigan; grandchildren, Stephanie (Brandon) Cornwell, Jason (Jill) Myers, Shaun Myers, Jakob Myers, Joseph (Julie) Osborne, Hannah (Will) Scheible, Samantha Myers, Branden (Eva) Webb, Ethan (Mattison) Webb, Whitney (Ryan) Lowe, Lucile Webb, Claire Wygant and Olivia Wygant; seven Great Grandchildren; Sister-in-law Phyllis Anne Monroe of Holt Michigan; many nieces and nephews from California, Tennessee, Florida ,and Michigan.
She was proceeded in death by her husband, Alan Myers, Sr.; her son, Baby Boy Myers; her parents, Frank and Flossie Whitney; her brother, Frank Whitney, Jr; her sister and brother-in-law, Marilyn and Gerald Keyworth; brother-in-law, Gene Myers; brother-in-law, Arnold Monroe; and daughter-in-law, Carol Myers.
Family and friends were invited to share their favorite memories of Nancy during visitation on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Kempf Event Center in Bellevue, Michigan; Wednesday March 11, visitation was from 11 a.m. to noon, with a service celebrating Nancy’s beautiful life following at noon at the Bellevue Methodist Church with Pastor Darwin Kuhl officiating (122 Capital Ave, Bellevue, MI 49021).
Nancy will be laid to rest next to her husband at Deepdale Cemetery following the service. A luncheon will be held at the Bellevue Methodist Church following the graveside service.
Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Nancy’s honor can do so to the Alzheimer’s Association or to Hospice of Lansing. The Kempf Family Funeral Home is honored to care for the Myers family in their time of need.
Roger Lee Carpenter
Roger Lee Carpenter, age 86 of Charlotte, passed away peacefully into the loving arms of his Savior on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. He was born on August 31, 1939 in Potterville, the son of Howard and Laurel (Bowser) Carpenter.
Roger was a devoted Christian and active member of West Windsor United Brethren Church where he spent his time working in the church’s community garden.
Roger is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Sandra; his three sons, Brian (Sherry), Steve (Kimberely), Chris (Christy); 10 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; his brother Doug (Nelda); his sisters, Barb Lucas and Joyce Carpenter.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Frank and Jack.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Those wishing may make contributions in Roger’s memory to West Windsor United Brethren Church; Helping Hands Food Pantry; or Eaton Community Palliative Care.
To view Roger’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.
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.