Obituaries
Bruce Ernest Benedict
Bruce Ernest Benedict was born on April 24, 1935, the first child of Harold and Edith (VanBlarcom) Benedict. Bruce passed away peacefully at his family farm on January 29, 2026.
Bruce graduated from Vermontville Agricultural School in 1953. At age 18 he joined the Michigan National Guard serving six years. During this time, he worked at Oldsmobile. He graduated from Michigan State University in 1961. Bruce began a distinguished career with the U.S. Customs Department. He then worked as a customs consultant at J.V. Car in Detroit and Chicago. He rounded out his career working at Amway as Manager of International Customs Administration Services.
A lifelong student of history, Bruce was a devoted board member and volunteer at the Welch Historical Museum in Sunfield, Michigan. He was also an active member of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War. He meticulously researched and documented every branch of his family tree.
Bruce is survived by his beloved wife Carol (Fluger) Benedict of 27 years. Those 27 years were filled with travel and adventure and quality time spent with family and friends. Bruce embraced Carol’s family as his own. He loved them and they loved him and they created many happy memories together. He is survived by his mother-in-law Elsie Fluger, of Lake Elmo, Minnesota and by Carol’s brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews.
He is also survived by his daughter Shirley Julaine Benedict Stilgebauer (Kenneth), his son Terry Bruce Benedict (Maureen), his daughter Jackie Dené Thompson (John), and their mother Margaret Joan Price Benedict, his daughter Sarah Louise Benedict and her mother Genevieve d’Argy, and former wife, Eunice Borelli. He was blessed by and survived by numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Bruce is survived by his sisters, Merial Das (Sunil), Mary Jo Brimmer and her significant other Tom Schmidt, Iris Wion (Leroy), Cherry Smart (Jimmy), Karen Usitalo (Jim), Brenda Bendict, and his brother Brian Benedict (Lorraine).
A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026, from 2 to 6p.m., at the Bismark Schoolhouse, 8925 Round Lake Road, Vermontville, MI 49096.
To view a complete obituary on line or leave a condolence for family, visit RosierFuneralHome@hotmail.com.
Darrell Lynn Clements Sr.
Darrell Lynn Clements Sr. was born on February 1, 1939, in Charlotte, Michigan, the son of Paul and Mildred (Royston) Clements. He peacefully passed away on February 11, 2026, in Lansing, Michigan. A dedicated and multifaceted individual, Darrell made significant contributions to both his profession and community throughout his life.
After graduating from Charlotte High School in 1957, he embarked on a career that showcased his versatility and strong work ethic. Darrell worked diligently as a welder and later served as a timber buyer for Johnson Lumber.
However, his impact extended beyond his professional endeavors; he devoted many years to ministering in his community, providing guidance and support to those in need. His commitment to service was a hallmark of his character.
In addition to his work, Darrell was known for his love of visiting family and friends. He cherished his time spent with loved ones, filling his days with laughter and meaningful conversations. His passion for raising draft horses was another pursuit that brought him joy and fulfillment. His faith was the central focus of his life and was evident in all that he did.
Darrell is survived by his wife, Judy; children, Rosa (Ron) Lea, Julia Clements, Darrell (Joanne) Clements Jr., Lola Cook, John (Erin) Clements, Victoria Sanders; 26 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; sister, Karen (Rick) Rickerd; sister-in-law, Donna Clements; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Marlyn Jean; second wife, Sue Landon; sister, Wilma; brother, Harold Clements.
Funeral services were held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 1 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Pastor Jeff Davis officiating. The family received friends on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the funeral home just prior to the service. Burial followed at Maple Hill Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contributions in Darrell’s memory to West Benton Church 1011 E. Vermontville Hwy., Charlotte, MI 48813.
Sue Marie Trimble
Sue Marie Trimble, 87, joined her beloved and trusted God on February 5, 2026. She passed peacefully at MyMichigan Medical Center in Saginaw, surrounded by her loving family.
Sue was born on March 28, 1938, in Charlotte, Michigan, one of four daughters of Harold and Lucille (Dowker) Smith. Sue grew up in Charlotte, Michigan, where her family owned a laundry business that she often helped operate. She attended Central Michigan University, where she met the love of her life, Richard Gale “Dick” Trimble. The two wed on August 31, 1957, in Charlotte, and began their life together in married housing. As Dick cooked for a local restaurant, Sue worked alongside him as a waitress while they pursued degrees in education. Their family grew to “The Trimble Five” in the years that followed, with each daughter bringing them more pride, adventure and laughter.
In their years together, Sue and Dick lived in Mt. Clemens, Carson City, and Alma, Michigan, before retiring to Harrison. They shared a love of camping, traveling, playing euchre, pontoon boat rides, and spending quiet time together on the deck of their idyllic home, “The Cabin.” Family was always at the center of their lives, and they rarely missed an opportunity to support their grandchildren, from soccer fields to hockey rinks, all over the country. Their inspiring love and partnership cast beautiful ripples farther than they even realized. Dick survives her.
Sue received both her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Education from Central Michigan University. She touched countless lives during her teaching career, first as an elementary school teacher, then as a middle school English teacher, and finally adult education at Davenport University, all in Alma, Michigan. She worked 36 years before retiring in 1994. Sue was known for her care, encouragement, and lasting impact on her students, who often adoringly approached her long after they’d been in her classroom. She also enjoyed reading, book club, and TOPS, where she formed meaningful friendships to add to the many long standing relationships from every community she called home.
Sue had an exceptional sense of humor and a spunky personality, and she was kind, faithful, empathetic, a great listener, a loyal friend, and always fashionable. Every conversation with her left its participants lighter, brighter and better, and she demonstrated a true love for God through her warm-heartedness and nurturing of others. She blessed so many with the joy born from her steadfast faith. Sue Marie Trimble was truly one in a million, and she will be deeply missed.
As a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Sue is lovingly remembered by her daughters, Jerri Scurfield (Bob), Kathy Trimble-Middleton, and Judy Trimble (Dan Widner); her grandchildren, Brad Scurfield (Mackenzie), Nate Scurfield (Maddie), Hallie Widner (Macky Scott), Grace Middleton (partner Jordan), Regan Widner (fiancé Tyler), and Tommy Middleton (partner Abby); and her great-grandchildren, Ella, Juliette, and Gale Scurfield. She is also survived by many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, treasured friends, (both new and lifelong), and beloved grand-dog Ralph.
Sue is preceded in death by her parents and her sisters, Janie Tharp, Helen Snedeker (Jack), and Sally VanderPloeg.
A Celebration of Life is being planned for the spring/summer of 2026. For those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Sue’s name, please donate to a charity of your choice.
All of us at Ware Smith Woolever are honored that the Trimble family has entrusted us with the care of their loved one. Condolences may be shared with the family at wswfh.com.
Gaynor Ruth Dykstra
Gaynor Ruth Dykstra died on February 2, 2026, in Charlotte, Michigan.
Gaynor was born on July 20, 1929, to Drs. Roelof and Helen (Polenious) Lanting. Due to her parents’ work in medical social services, Gaynor and her younger brother, Derk, lived in several communities during her childhood, eventually spending the longest period in Owosso, Michigan.
She graduated from East Lansing High School and married John O. (Jack) Dykstra shortly aftergraduating, beginning a lifelong partnership devoted to family.
Gaynor dedicated much of her life to being a loving mother and homemaker, creating a warm and welcoming home for her four children: Candy, John, Jim, and Rick. Her love of learning and literature was ever-present and something she joyfully shared with her children, instilling in them a lifelong appreciation for books and curiosity about the world.
Later in life, Gaynor embraced opportunities to travel, visiting Europe, the Middle East, and China – experiences that reflected her open mind and adventurous spirit. She also gave generously of her time through volunteer work with the Lansing Matinee Musicale and as a docent at Michigan State University’s Wharton Center.
Gaynor was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, blessed with 16 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. She will be fondly remembered for her deeplove of animals—especially dogs, cats, horses, and nearly anything with four legs and fur – as well as for her cherished family Thanksgiving dinners. Her granddaughters will always treasure the annual tradition of attending The Nutcracker with her at the Wharton Center, a memory that reflects her thoughtfulness and love of the arts.
Gaynor’s life was marked by kindness, curiosity, devotion to family, and quiet generosity. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to be felt for generations.
A private family memorial service will be announced at a later date. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Lynnette Carol Thomas
Lynnette Carol Thomas, born on November 13, 1946, in Lansing, Michigan, the daughter of Barclay and Edith (Sakresky) Larkins. She passed away peacefully at her home on February 8, 2026, in Charlotte, Michigan.
Lynnette was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her family was her pride and joy, and she adored each and every one of them. Lynnette’s kindness and compassion were felt not only by her family but also by everyone she encountered. With a smile that could light up the darkest room, she touched the lives of many through her unwavering support and dedication.
A proud graduate of Holt High School, class of 1964, she enjoyed feeding and watching birds and other wildlife, finding joy and peace in their presence. Her weekends were often spent exploring new culinary adventures with her beloved husband, Jim, as they visited different restaurants, savoring not just food but also the laughter and companionship that filled their moments together.
Lynette is preceded in death by her parents.
She is survived by her husband, Jim; children, Michelle Soulliere, Kevin (Amy) Wirt, Ron (Leeanne) Wirt, Paul (Maribel) Thomas, Lori Thomas, Debbie Thomas; 12 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and sister, Lori Kraushaur.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 11 a.m. at First Lutheran Church with Pastor Sean Esterline officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at church.
Those desiring may make contributions in Lynnette’s memory to First Lutheran Church 550 E. Shepherd Street, Charlotte, MI 48813.
Olga Rangel Williams
Olga “Augie” Rangel Williams, a woman who enjoyed the simple things in life, died unexpectedly on Monday, February 9, 2026. Augie, 73, of Charlotte, was born on October 10, 1952, in New Braunfels, Texas, the daughter of Frank and Cruz (Rangel) Silvas Sr.
She was a graduate of Charlotte High School Class of 1970. Upon graduating she began working in manufacturing, working for Hoover, Aluminum Extrusions, Dornbos Signs, and Owens Illinois, where she retired after 30 years.
In 1989, Augie married Darryl Williams, and together they built a life filled with meaningful memories until his passing in 2009. In her younger years, Augie enjoyed playing on softball and bowling leagues, canoeing, and going to rock concerts. Later in life she enjoyed collecting Coca Cola items and other knickknacks, sewing, crocheting, embroidering, and playing cards. Augie was a thrill seeker and loved her annual trip to different amusement parks, from Cedar Point, Kings Island, and Disney, she loved them all. Above all her biggest passion in life was her collections.
Augie is survived by her children, Ron McConnell and Yvonne Sandner; grandchildren, Lhiannan and Sammael McConnell; great-granddaughter, Harlee; siblings, Frank (Barb) Silvas Jr and Theresa Faust; and lifelong best friend, Sandra Mann. She was predeceased by her husband, Darryl Williams; her parents; and nephews, Wes Faust and Blake Rankin.
Friends are encouraged to support Augie’s family by sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A Celebration of Life will be held for Augie on Monday, February 16, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte.
The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
RuthAnn Wawiernia
RuthAnn “Charlie” Wawiernia, the caretaker of the family, died Sunday February 8, 2026. Charlie, 73, of Nashville, Michigan was born November 21, 1952 in Ionia, Michigan, to Jack and Ardeth (Geiger) Spencer. RuthAnn, affectionately known as “Charlie” and lovingly called “Gramma Chuck,” was the heart and caretaker of her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her. A devoted wife, mother, and the unforgettable “Gramma Chuck,” she believed that by living her fully in those roles her life’s wishes had been fulfilled. She gave 110% support to her children and stood behind Tony no matter what he was involved in. Her presence brought love, laughter, and light, and her voice could always be heard as the loudest cheer in the stands at sporting events. A passionate fan, she faithfully supported her favorite teams – Penn State and any teams the grandkids played on – with enthusiasm and pride.
Charlie’s true career was being a Gramma, a role she embraced with unmatched joy and devotion. She loved cooking big meals filled with comfort food, and no one ever left her table without leftovers in hand. Her home, fondly known as the “Kool-Aid house,” was a welcoming place for family, friends, and neighborhood kids alike. Creative and nurturing, she enjoyed knitting and crafting, tending to her flower gardens, and caring for her beloved succulent farm. She also had a special love for Christmas, delighting in the warmth, traditions, and togetherness it brought. Whether caring for family, friends, or the troubled students she took under her wing while overseeing the in-school suspension program, Charlie’s lived a life defined by generosity, warmth, and unwavering love – a legacy that will be treasured always.
Charlie is survived by her husband of 51 years, Tony; daughter, Brandy (Brian) Garrett, and sons Trevor (Samantha) Wawiernia, and Timothy (Gabrielle) Wawiernia; grandchildren, Chloe Garrett, Sebastian Garrett, Emma Garrett, Charles Garrett, Sawyer Wawiernia, Trapper Wawiernia, Harper Wawiernia, and Owen Wawiernia; and siblings, Karen (Garry) Brodbeck, and Larry (Deb) Spencer. She preceded in death by her parents, and nephews, Jack Spencer and Andy Spencer.
Friends are encouraged to support Charlie’s family by attending visitation or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. The family greeted guests at visitation Thursday, February 12 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m.; and Friday, February 13 from 6 to 8 p.m.
A Memorial Wake will be held in the summer at a place and time to be announced. 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 Charlie’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 Maple Valley Memorial Scholarship Fund designated for Pathway Students. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Phyllis Andrews Nelson
Phyllis Andrews Nelson was born on January 29, 1924, in Charlotte, Michigan, to Agnes T. (Spencer) Andrews and Clarence Carson Andrews. She passed away on February 4, 2026 at the remarkable age of 102.
Phyllis spent the majority of her life in her beloved hometown of Charlotte, Michigan. For a brief stint in the 1940s, Phyllis and her mother moved to Phoenix, Arizona, where she met Arley Leland Nelson. After a short courtship, they were married in January of 1947 in San Diego, California. It was in Arizona that they welcomed Cheryl and Val to their family. In the early 1950s, they returned to Charlotte, where they made their home and some years later welcomed a second son, Kevin.
Phyllis was a hardworking and determined woman throughout her life. She worked for Aluminum Extrusions before starting her own business, Charlotte Collection and Reporting Bureau. She later partnered with Arley in operating H & R Block offices in Charlotte and Eaton Rapids.
Phyllis had a deep love for music. She played the saxophone in the Charlotte High School Band, an experience she remembered fondly, and performed in numerous high school plays, which she greatly enjoyed. She also shared her talents by playing the piano for church events. An accomplished singer, Phyllis could often be seen throughout central Michigan performing alongside Arley.
A devoted Christian, Phyllis was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She loved serving others and lived a life centered on her Savior, Jesus Christ. She was sealed to her beloved husband, Arley, for time and all eternity in the Phoenix Arizona Temple. She looked forward with joy to being reunited with him. Phyllis especially loved serving in the temple, working for several years in the Chicago Temple and later in the Detroit Temple.
Family was at the heart of Phyllis’s life. She loved spending time with her loved ones and enjoyed games of all kinds—especially Chicken Foot dominoes and card games. A formidable pinochle player for much of her life, she later took great delight in playing a game called Garbage. Even as her eyesight faded, she somehow always had the perfect cards at just the right moment and defeated her opponents without mercy.
Phyllis is survived by her children, Cheryl (Jay) Hanger of West Jordan, Utah; Val Nelson of Charlotte, and Kevin (Jeanene) Nelson of Gunnison, Colorado. She was blessed with 15 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Arley and daughter-in-law Carolyn Anderson Nelson.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026 from 1 to 3 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 200 North Bostwick, Charlotte, Michigan 48813. Interment will be at the Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, Michigan, where she will rest alongside her husband, Arley.
To view Phyllis’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.
Wendi Leigh Cooper
Wendi Leigh Cooper, 56, of Charlotte, an outgoing and integral part of her local community, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 in Lansing. Wendi was born September 14, 1969 in Lansing, the daughter of Garie and Suzanne (Maltby) Bemis. She graduated from Charlotte High School in 1987 before working briefly at a car dealership before going to Douglas J. and earning her cosmetology license. Throughout the years, she worked at several local hairstyling establishments in Charlotte, starting with the Shear Place. Wendi was always passionate about supporting local businesses, especially the “mom and pop” variety. She loved antique shopping in such places. She also loved time spent in her vegetable garden in her yard. Wendi even experimented with crossbreeding pepper varieties to find the spiciest and most delicious, and passion project she enjoyed sharing the bounty of with her family and friends.
Wendi married the love of her life, Peter Cooper, shortly before his death in 2003. Together, Wendi and Pete enjoyed car shows and attending MSU sports events, especially hockey. She was a patriotic supporter of our armed forces, and an active member of the Charlotte community, serving on the Frontier Days board of directors for years. She also loved her pets, particularly Weimaraners. Wendi almost always had a dog or two in her care, and they were usually rescues.
Wendi is survived by her father and step-mother, Garie and Carol Bemis; brother, Brian Bemis; step-siblings, Jessica (Ben) Kellum and Sean (Krystal) Howard; step-sons, Ben and Charlie Cooper; step-grandchildren, Austin, Wyatt, Cody, Dalten, and Kinley Cooper; and step-nieces and nephews; Emmett and Lincoln Kellum and Claire, Cohen, and Carsyn Howard. She was very recently predeceased by her mother, Suzanne.
Friends were encouraged to support Wendi’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was from 2 to 4 and 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte. Funeral services were at 11 a.m. on Thursday, January 29, 2026 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Laura Cooper 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 Wendi’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 Folds of Honor Foundation. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Joene Lynn VanAuken Baker
Joene (Joey) Lynn VanAuken Baker was born November 10, 1942. She passed peacefully with family by her side on January 29, 2026. She was predeceased in death by her husband, Michael Baker.
She is survived by son James L. Keel, and wife Danielle Geldersma; daughter Laurie Schwabe and husband Matt; granddaughters Amelia, Annabella and Lilly Schwabe; step-daughters Kemberli Greco and Stacey Kobetisch; brother Frank VanAuken and wife Tina; sisters Cindy Martens and husband Kenneth (Butch) and Wendy Ashley and husband Mark; and many nieces and nephews.
Joey graduated from Bellevue High School in 1961.
Joey was an amazing mother, sister, and wife. Joey had a wonderful sense of humor. Joey enjoyed cooking, painting, basket-weaving, sewing and gardening.
Joey married Michael and moved to the Seattle area more than 30 years ago. They enjoyed many trips with friends on Harleys and Indian motorcycles. One of Joey’s favorite vacations was to return to Michigan to hunt morel mushrooms with her family.
Special thanks to the staff at the Flower House for all the love and care they gave Joey the past year and a half. Thank you also to Heart to Heart Hospice for her care.
A memorial service will be held in the spring. Joey will be laid to rest at Fort Custer in Battle Creek with her husband, Michael, who will be buried with military honors. Funeral arrangements are through Daniels Funeral Home in Hastings.