Obituaries
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.
Sharon Lea Hammer
Sharon Lea Hammer of Tecumseh, Ontario, Canada, passed away on February 4, 2026. Born to Floyd and Avis (Pfeifer) Merritt on March 3, 1945, Sharon was a member of the Charlotte High School class of 1963. She attended the University of Michigan, the Plymouth College of Art and Design in Plymouth, England, and held a fine arts degree from Western Michigan University.
She is survived by husband Antony, daughters Kate (Michael) Lattimer of Vancouver, British Columbia, and Antonia Hammer of Hamilton, Ontario; grandchildren Grayson and Wilhemina; sister Kathlen Miyasato; nephews Aaron, Adam and Russell (Carli) Miyasato; and “The Cousins and Crew.”
A remembrance event will be held by the family on a future date.
Gloria Jean Sherwood
Gloria Jean Sherwood, 74, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2026, in Grand Ledge, Michigan, surrounded by the warmth of her family’s love. Born on May 17, 1951, in Davenport, Iowa, Gloria’s life was a tapestry of devotion to her family, her faith, and her community.
Gloria’s journey began as a proud graduate of West High School in 1969. Her professional path led her to a fulfilling career as an audiologist assistant at Hearing Health, and later, she extended her compassionate spirit to Home Health Care, where she supported countless individuals with her expertise and kindness.
Gloria’s life was a testament to her loving nature and her faith-filled heart. She found joy in simple pleasures like crocheting, baking, reading, and crafting. Gloria’s love for walking was an expression of her appreciation for nature and the world around her. Above all, Gloria cherished the moments spent with her grandchildren.
Gloria survived by her loving husband, Don H. Sherwood II, and their children Dion (Elizabeth) Shultz, David Shultz, Denise (Shawn) McKellar, Don Sherwood III, and Matthew (Maylon) Sherwood. Gloria’s legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren, Elijah, Isaac, Mary, Meghan, Kyle, Angel, Brendon, Kallista, Peyton, Riyan, Mattison, Donovan, Robert; and her great-grandchildren, Atom, Mavrik, and Jeffrey, who is on the way. She also leaves behind her caring sisters, Debbie Todd and Lisa; her brother, Michael Thomas; and several nieces and nephews.
Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Darlene (Grieser) Thomas, her son William Shultz, and her brothers George and Monty Thomas.
Visitation was be held at Mills Funeral Home, Peters & Murray Chapel on Friday, February 13, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral service will be Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Sebewa Church of God 12910 S. Goddard Rd., Lake Odessa, MI 48849, with a visitation one hour prior to the service; interment following the service at Union Cemetery, Grand Ledge.
Donations can be made in loving memory of Gloria to Sebewa Church of God or the Disabled American Veterans organization.
Christopher Lee Allen
Christopher Lee Allen, age 62, of Eaton Rapids, Michigan, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. He was born on October 3, 1963, in Lansing, Michigan, and graduated from Holt High School in 1981.
Chris was a man of many talents and interests. He was a business owner, auto technician, woodworker, musician, and a lifelong student of history. His love of history went beyond books, taking shape through years as a Civil War reenactor and through his work in reenactment planning and management.
Chris made his home in Eaton Rapids for more than 25 years and was devoted to the community he loved. He served with distinction as Board President of Michigan’s Grand Army of the Republic Memorial Hall and Museum in Eaton Rapids from 2023 to 2026, following ten years of service as Vice President. He also served as Chair of the Eaton Rapids Memorial Day Parade and generously volunteered his time and talents for numerous city-wide events, always working to preserve history and strengthen community spirit.
Chris was preceded in death by his father, Ronald Allen (1932–1998); his mother, Ruth (Crawford) Allen (1933–2019); his brother, Mark Allen (1961–2019); and his nephew, Jacob Allen (1987–1988).
He is survived by his wife, Genny Allen; his siblings, Kathy and Mike Ball of Greenfield, Indiana; Mike and Terrie Allen of Lansing; Tim Allen of Lansing; and many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
A memorial gathering will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the nonprofit Michigan’s G.A.R. Memorial Hall and Museum, 224 South Main Street, Eaton Rapids, Michigan 48827. To share memories or leave online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.
Richard Alwood
Richard (Dick) Alwood was born on July 10, 1936 to Leon and Madeline (Crandall) Alwood. Dick married his high school sweetheart Flora Snow in 1955, and they were married for 68 years. She predeceased him in 2022. Dick is survived by three children: Cindie (Sarah Schreiber), Marty (Tina) and Russell (Tracey); two grandsons Nathaniel and Patric; and step-grandchildren Tanner, Tessa, Karleigh, and Kane. Nate and Patric were the light of Dick and Flora’s life.
While serving in the Michigan National Guard, Dick worked at Michigan Bell Telephone as a linesman. He left Ma Bell and began working in real estate and eventually got his builder’s license and designed and built agricultural buildings. He received an award for his design of the horse facilities at Foxwoode Farm in Southeastern Michigan.
A definite jack of all trades, Dick could build and fix just about anything. In the1980s he bought a house on a lake in Barry County where he and Flo lived until her death. During that time, they both became members of the Delton Moose where Dick held various leadership positions including president. His dedication and service to the Moose Lodge was unwavering. Managing the installation of a new kitchen in the Lodge was his last big project and was completed in October 2025.
Dick and Flo spent winters in Florida but always looked forward to returning to their home in Michigan for family outings, fishing and pontoon riding around the lake. A die- hard Michigan State University sports fan, he never missed a game and attended several football games over the years and maybe a basketball game or two. The Detroit Lions were his second favorite team and many Sundays and holidays were spent yelling at the TV trying to cheer the Lions to victory.
Dick passed away on February 1, 2026, after a brief, intense illness. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 25 at 11 a.m. at the Delton Moose Lodge. He will be remembered for his love of family, his generosity, spirit, love of water, golf and sunshine. To his golfing buddies – he’ll meet you at the 19th hole. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends and people he had yet to meet.
Lucius Octavious Hayward
Lucius Octavious Hayward, age 82, of Holt, Michigan, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born November 1, 1943, the son of Lucius VanOctavious Hayward and Mildred Helen (Cross) Hayward. Lou was a lifelong resident of the Greater Lansing area. He was a 1962 graduate of Grand Ledge High School. On August 30, 1963, Lou married Karenlee Walters at the Pennway Church of God and God blessed them with over 61 years together.
Lou dedicated 25 years of his life to serving the Lansing, Michigan, community, retiring as a detective from the Lansing Police Department. His commitment earned the respect of all who worked with him. He didn’t know a stranger and greeted the world with a happy heart and a sharp, sarcastic sense of humor that could light up any room. Lou found his greatest peace in the simple joys of life—spending time with his family, camping in Charlevoix, attending church camp in St. Louis, casting a fishing line into quiet waters, and taking long drives through the countryside. Whether in uniform, fishing gear, or his Sunday best, Lou lived with warmth, laughter, and a deep appreciation for the people he loved. After the passing of his beloved wife, Lou missed her every day, and his family takes comfort in believing they are now reunited in heaven and singing together once again.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Karenlee; his parents; sister, Betty (Hayward) Lucus; brothers, M. Eugene Hayward, Gordon Hayward, Gary Hayward, and Ronald Hayward.
Lou is survived by his five children, Mark (Carrie) Hayward of Lansing, Michigan, Scott (Debbie) Hayward of Grand Ledge, Michigan, Rob (Sharon) Hayward of West Lafayette, Indiana, Chad (Michelle) Hayward of Noblesville, Indiana, Gina (Staci) Hayward of Olivet, Michigan; sister, Joanne (Gary) Ford.
Lou’s love of life lives on in his 21 beloved grandchildren: Christopher Hayward, Joshua (Kelsey) Hayward, Jeffrey (Cali) Hayward, Britan Hayward and Danielle, Miranda (Kevin) Lutz, Angelica (Ezekiel) Martinez, Kyle (Lauren) Hayward, Mark Edison Hayward, Kevin (Ashley) Hayward, Madeline (Kyle) Sehgers, Mackenzie (Adam) McLaughlin, Kelsie (Kage) Williams, Caroline Hayward, Ellerie Hayward, Liam Hayward, Russell (Alexis) Pliley, Brianna (Sam) Ryan, Bryce Pliley and Lauren Roberts, Rabecka Pliley and Gavin Clower, Megann (Jake) Henski and Matthew Davis. Lou was also the proud great-grandfather of 20.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Pastor Dave Perry officiating. The family will receive friends on Friday February 13 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Saturday.
A private burial will take place at Bosworth Cemetery at a later date.
To view Lou’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Bruce Hamilton Wakeman
Bruce Hamilton Wakeman, of Bellevue, Michigan, passed away on January 25, 2026, at Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall. He was born on April 3, 1951, the son of Arnold and Georgian (Hamilton) Wakeman.
Bruce married Charlene Anne Armstrong on February 15, 1975, at the Methodist Church in Charlotte, Michigan. Bruce retired from Pioneer Foundry Co., Inc. in Jackson, Michigan in 2014. He had a real love of cars; he did drag racing in his younger years. Bruce enjoyed putting together model cars throughout his life and later in life he would take Charlene for drives in his 94 Camaro z28 convertible. Bruce’s model cars were so finely detailed that when he took them to model car shows, he would often win awards for them.
Bruce will be mostly remembered as a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. His family would like to give a special thank you to the nurses and doctors at Oaklawn Hospital in Marshall for the wonderful care that he received while he was in their care and a special thank you to Morgan for the care she provided.
Bruce is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Charlene A. Wakeman, children, Kristin Wakeman, Scott (Allison) Wakeman; grandchildren, William (Natsumi) Wakeman, Ruby Wakeman, Sofia Beukema; great grandchildren, Kingston and Rua Wakeman; sister, Leslie Wakeman and brothers, Scott and Sean Wakeman.
In keeping with Bruce’s wishes, there are no services at this time, his family is planning on having a barbecue this summer to honor him. 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.
Neil Edward Klaiss
Neil Edward Klaiss, beloved father, husband, and community pillar, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2026, in his hometown of Charlotte, Michigan. Surrounded by the love of his daughters, Neil’s departure marks the end of a life dedicated to service, family, and friendship.
Neil was born on April 8, 1941, in Charlotte. Neil went on to graduate from Charlotte High School in 1959 and later earned an Associate’s Degree at Western Michigan University. His thirst for knowledge was complemented by a deep commitment to his community, where he not only made a living but truly made a difference. A proud veteran, Neil served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. His experiences shaped him into the compassionate and steadfast man he became, as he listened to the stories and hardships of others, always providing support and camaraderie.
One of Neil’s proudest accomplishments was marrying the love of his life, Leila Noah, on June 19, 1965, at the First Congregational Church in Charlotte. He often remarked that the smartest decision he ever made was choosing her as his partner, a testament to a bond that exemplified love and commitment. Neil owned and operated Klaiss TV in Charlotte for many years. He spent 34 years serving with the Charlotte Fire Department as a firefighter and EMT, earning the love and respect of many.
His dedication extended beyond the firehouse, as he later worked at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home after retirement. He possessed a remarkable ability to connect with people, and his love for visiting and chatting enriched the lives of those around him. Neil was also the President of Kiwanis Manor for 27 years here in Charlotte.
Neil is survived by daughters, Melissa (Paul) Martino of Port Orange, Florida, Libby (Tony Delreal) Klaiss of Charlotte; grandchildren: Noah (Macinley Chastain) Martino of Alabama, Victoria Martino of Alabama; sister-in-law, Claudia Bartlett; brother-in-law, Tony Hain; numerous nieces, nephews, and honorary daughters: Ann Roiter and Elizabeth Siler.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Ila (Shumaker) Klaiss; wife, Leila; brother, Charles “Charlie” Klaiss; sister, Joyce Elaine Klaiss; and sister-in-law, Kathy Hain.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 11 a.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Wednesday. Inurnment with military honors will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, Michigan.
Those desiring may make contributions in Neil’s honor to the Charlotte Christmas Kiddies 111 E. Lawrence Ave., Charlotte, MI 48813, Court House Square Association 100 W. Lawrence Ave., Charlotte, MI 48813, or Kiwanis Manor 430 S. Cochran Ave., Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Neil’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.bukhead-green-kilgo.com.