-

Funeral Services:

Catherine B. Carroll, 74, of Vermontville, passed away Friday, May 11, 2018, at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, surrounded by her family. She was born February 6, 1944, in Sheridan, Mich., the daughter of Donald and Aletha Husted. On June 26, 1961, she married JW Carroll in Belding at the family home. Cathy loved people. If you ever visited her home you may have come as a friend but you always left as family. Cathy loved to work outdoors and could often be found planting or weeding flowers beds. Cathy was an amazing cook and baker. Everyone always looked forward to sitting down at her table for a wonderful home-cooked meal. Cathy loved her job as a bus driver for Charlotte transportation. She made many lifelong friendships throughout her 24 years of dedicated service.

Cathy is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, JW; children, Annette (Terry) Frith, Jeremy (Erin) Carroll, Josh Carroll, Becky (Ed) Bruce; 10 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; brother, Donald (Faith) Husted; and sister, Ruth Ann.

She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Jim Carroll; daughter, Diane Sue Carroll; and grandson, Jacob Carroll.

A memorial service was held on Tuesday, May 15, 2018, at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home, with Pastor Shane Bryant officiating. Burial will take place at Evergreen Township Cemetery in Sheridan at a later date.

Those desiring may make contributions in Cathy’s memory to Charlotte Assembly of God or the charity of their choice.

To view Catherine’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family, please visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.

-

Funeral Services:

Wilson “Spark” Ashley, 68, of Nashville passed away Saturday, January 6, 2018 while wintering in Florida.

A memorial service will he held at The Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville at 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 20, with Shirley Zobian officiating. The family will receive visitors one hour prior to the memorial service, beginning at 1 p.m.

There will be a time of luncheon and fellowship immediately following the memorial service at the Nashville VFW Post #8260.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville.  For further details please visit danielsfuneralhome.net.

-

Funeral Services:

Sylvia Williams, 86, of Vermontville, passed away peacefully Wednesday, May 2, 2018 at her home with her family at her side. Sylvia was born in Lake Odessa on September 22, 1931, the daughter of the late Howard D. and Mable (Armour) Poff.

She was raised in the Lake Odessa area and attended local schools graduating from Lake Odessa High School in 1949.  She continued her education at Western Michigan University where she received her Bachelors Degree in Education.

In 1953, she was married to Mr. Lafayette Williams in Lake Odessa. They began their lives together in the Hudsonville area for a short time, before moving to the Vermontville area where they raised their family together.  Lafayette and Sylvia enjoyed traveling to Northern Michigan as well as  other parts of the United States in their motor home.

Slyvia began her teaching career in the Hudsonville school systems where she taught Home Economics. During the mid 1960s the family moved to Vermontville where she taught at Fuller Street School until 1985 when she retired from teaching. After leaving education, Slyvia began working as the Register of Deeds for Eaton County, which she continued until her retirement in 1995.

She loved her home, and enjoyed sewing, cooking, working in her gardens and doing crossword puzzles. She especially enjoyed spending time with her friends; twice per week Sylvia and her group of friends would exercise and swim at the Charlotte High School swimming pool. Though the years, she has remained an active member of the Greater Federation of Women’s Club in Vermontville. She always looked forward to the many adventures the group would take during the year.

Sylvia is survived by her two daughters, Betsy Parish, and Jane Owen; a son, Paul (Debbie) Williams; two sisters, Mary Firth, Margaret (Pat) Maurer; and six grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her infant son; her beloved husband; and her sister, Virginia Trumble,

Funeral services were held at The Daniels Funeral Home on Saturday, May 5 2018, with Pastor Karen Kinney officiating. Interment took place following the luncheon at Freemire Cemetery in Sunfield Township

Memorial contributions can be made to the Maple Valley Scholarship Fund or the Lake Odessa Historical Society.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville. For further details, please visit our website at danielsfuneralhome.net.

-

Funeral Services:

Karen S. Sullivan, 76, of Gaylord, formerly of Lansing, passed away Friday, May 4, 2018, at Munson Hospice House in Traverse City. She was born February 23, 1942, in Charlotte, the daughter of Harold and Esther (Zanger) Sloan. She graduated from Charlotte High School with the class of 1960. Karen was a devoted mother and grandmother. She always looked forward to Sunday family dinners. Karen enjoyed spending time outdoors. She loved wildlife and could often be found enjoying the seasons with family, along with camping, fishing and hunting. Karen enjoyed all things Northern Michigan. Whether it was just taking a drive down country roads or sitting beside one of its many lakes or streams, she loved it all.

Karen is survived by her two sons: Brian (Lori) Sullivan of Olivet, Steve (Winde) Sullivan of Gaylord; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; brother, Mark Sloan of Wisconsin; sister-in-law, Sharon Sloan of Olivet.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, David Sloan.

Funeral services were held on Thursday, May 10, 2018, at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home in Charlotte. Interment took place at Lee Center Cemetery in Olivet.

Those desiring may make contributions in Karen’s honor to Steve Sullivan to be used to purchase wildlife feed for Munson Hospice House. Steve will personally deliver feed.

To view Karen’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family, please visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.

-

Funeral Services:

Garland Glen Root, 78, of Charlotte, passed away Friday, May 4, 2018, at home with his wife by his side. He was born May 15, 1939, in Charlotte to Glen H. and Virginia M. (Eldred) Root. Garland graduated from Charlotte High School with the class of 1958. He went on to serve his country in the US Army, where he was stationed in Germany. On April 28, 1962, Garland married the love of his life, Tommie Ann Carter at First Lutheran Church in Charlotte. Once returning from the service Garland found employment at Oldsmobile in Lansing, where he worked in skilled trades as a journeyman millwright. He was a devoted lifelong member of First Lutheran Church in Charlotte, where he served as an elder for many years. Garland enjoyed golfing, bowling, and playing Euchre. He was the best husband, father, and grandfather one could ever ask for. He saw to it that his family always came first. Garland also loved helping others. He was always willing step up and volunteer to assist anyone in need.

Garland is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Tommie Ann; daughters, Tammy Ann Mullins of Eaton Rapids, Tanya Annette Cook of Potterville; four grandchildren, Rose Cook, Robert Cook, Garland Cook, Dacey Cook; great-grandson, Elias Cook; and sister, Connie (Stan) Guzy of Bellevue.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Gerald Root.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, May 8, 2018, at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Pastor Tim Olson officiating. Interment followed at Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte.

Those desiring may make contributions in Garland’s memory to the First Lutheran Church, 550 E. Shepherd St., Charlotte, MI 48813.

To view Garland’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.

-

Funeral Services:

Leonard “Len” E. Johnson, of Charlotte, a man of freedom and respect for both his fellow humans and the great green Earth passed away. Leonard was born on the family farm on June 4, 1928. At the age of 89 Len died Saturday, May 5, 2018. This is who our husband, father and grandfather was. He understood the beauty and passion of those he loved. He was intelligent, charming, funny, kind and handsome, but most of all he conducted himself with a quiet grace. He had piercing blue eyes and with his smile you felt blessed all the way through. Our parents shared a deep love, the kind of love where you are lovers and friends. They so loved to dance together. They were two halves that make a whole and they understood how rare and lovely that is. The saying, “still waters run deep” comes to mind. Yet he never missed a trick and should you need a talking to he would deliver it without you ever doubting he had your back. He will be missed.

Len is survived by his wife of 67 plus years, Donna Mae; children, Cathy (John) Roberts, Dan (Katherine) Johnson, Linda (David) Prevo and Tom Johnson; nine grandchildren, Lisa, Adam, Keith, Kara, Amelia, Caelen, Alex, Jackson and Cydne; five great-grandchildren, Samantha Donna, Caroline Grace, Lyla Mae, Henry Leonard, and Beckett Francis; siblings, Pat Langmaack, Richard Johnson; plus so many dear friends and extended family members. Leonard is predeceased by his parents, Leonard Johnson Sr. and Isabel Johnson; sister, Peggy Moon; and brother, Casey Johnson.

Len loved to read, it was common for him to read four books a week. He loved to dance, ski, and travel. He loved Meadowland Farm, having lived in both houses on the property twice. Best of all was his family. Leonard served on many boards including, The First Congregational Church Board, Olivet School Board- 17 years, 4-H Leader – Livestock, Farm Bureau, Land Bank – First of America Bank of Charlotte and also First of America Bank of Lansing, to name a few. He was named a State Farmer and also American Farmer. Len and Donna wintered in Arizona for twenty-three years and so enjoyed the many friends and fun times. They traveled far and wide, living a wonderful life together. “It may seem that I am here and you are there. But my heart knows better. You are always with me.”

Friends are encouraged to support Leonard’s family at visitation and memorial services.  Memorial services were Thursday, May 10, 2018 at The First Congregational Church in Charlotte, with Pastor Phil Hobson officiating.

If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to First Congregational Church. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Len on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.

-

Funeral Services:

Richard Eugene Van Fossen Sr., 91, of Potterville, passed away Monday, May 7, 2018 at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. He was born March 12, 1927, in Flint, the son of Donald and Verl Van Fossen. As a boy Richard attended Flushing Schools. He then went on to honorably serve his country in the US Navy in World War II in the Pacific Theater. Upon his return from the war he married the love of his life, Jennie E. Petherbridge on November 25, 1944. Richard was a pillar in the Potterville community. He served as the town constable in the 1950s. Richard was also the Mayor of Potterville, longtime member and president of the Potterville School Board, and City Council. He was an honorary Kentucky Colonel. Richard was a licensed commercial pilot, who loved to fly every opportunity he had. He owned many planes throughout the years and even built one himself. Richard was a proud member of the Operating Engineers Union for over 50 years. In his early years Richard enjoyed racing stock cars and riding motorcycles. He owned and operated Van Fossen Excavating and Van Fossen Trucking for many years. He loved to read and was an ardent supporter of the Benton Township Library. Richard was a proud Shriner. He saw to it that every child that needed medical care had a ride to their appointments.

Richard is survived by his sons, Richard (Theresa) Van Fossen II, Michael Van Fossen; seven grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Evelyn in 2014; daughter, Diane Jean in 1989; and granddaughter, Kelly Jean Van Fossen.

Funeral services were held on Friday, May 11, 2018, at 10 a.m. at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home in Charlotte. Interment took place at the Benton Township Cemetery.

Those desiring may make contributions in Richard’s memory to the Shriners Hospitals for Children 2900 N. Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607.

To view Richard’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family, please visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.

-

Funeral Services:

Janice V. (Nelson) Bumgardner, 83, a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, of Vermontville, went to be with her Lord and Savior on May 3, 2018 surround by her loving family. Janice was born May 31, 1934 in Sullivan County, Tenn. Her southern roots would forever stay with her, through her cooking, hospitality and love. She and Charles met while walking to church. The couple quickly fell in love and would later marry and spend the next 68 years truly devoted to one another. Her marriage to Charles was the joy of her life along with her children. Their humble beginnings started in 1953, when Charles came to Michigan to find a place to bring his family to. He found that in a small home that was owned by the late Harold and Edith Benedict.

Janice loved cooking; a few of her specialties were fried apple pies and cookies. She was known for making a fresh batch of cookies and taking them to different people in the community.

Janice also enjoyed creating beautiful quilts, made most the time from material originating from early feed mill fabric. Janice worked very hard all of her life. She was a butcher at Hanna’s Meat Locker in Sunfield for eight years, and later worked as a manager at the Lansing Butcher Shop for 28 years. Janice was a beautiful backup harmony singer for her daughter’s band called “Cathy Ann and the Sounds of the South.” She then went on to help Cathy Ann with her ministry of Christian Counseling.

Janice loved the Lord and made it her mission in life to tell everyone she could about the way to salvation. Through the last two weeks here on earth she continued to tell everyone at Sparrow Hospital and visiting her at home what heaven looked like and her walk with the Lord. Even during her struggles she would wink and throw her thumb up and giggle.

Above all, Janice was one of the most caring and loving women you could meet.

She is survived by her loving husband, Charles Bumgardner; children, Bob (Kathy) Bumgardner, Nancy (Larry) Trask and Ginny (David) Chase; grandchildren, Cheryl (Tim) Versalle, Denise (Ted) Kurdziel, Marc Trask, and Anne (Chad) Archer; great-grandchildren, Christopher Knoll, Cameron Trask, and Nate Lovaas(Chosen in love to be a part of the family); brothers, Floyd (Carolyn) Nelson, David Nelson, and Clay( Shirley) Nelson; and god son, Mark Truman Woodman III.

She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter Cathy Ann; four sisters and two brothers; and her parents.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, May 9, 2018 at Sunfield United Brethren Church, with Pastor Joe Benedict of Vermontville Bible Church officiating.

In lieu of flowers, Janice had a passion for children to come to know the Lord, and her family asks that memorial contributions be made to either Camp Living Water: or Vermontville Bible Church directed to Youth Mission Camp.

Please visit a special webpage at RosierFuneralHome.com made especially for Janice to light a candle in her memory or leave a condolence for the family.

The family has entrusted the arrangements to the independent family owned funeral home in Sunfield: Rosier Funeral Home.

-

Funeral Services:

Rosanne Telfer, 95, of Brookfield, Wisc., formerly of Charlotte, passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on May 9, 2018 in Brookfield. She was born on February 4, 1923, to George and Lillian (Woods) Porter in Highland Park. Rosanne married Alex Telfer on April 14, 1945. She was a 4-H leader teaching clothing and cooking for several years, and she loved gardening and taking care of her family.

This beautiful, warm, compassionate woman leaves a legacy of love, humor, understanding, patience, kindness, elegance and a deep love of children. Everyone who met her loved her.  We are so sorry to have lost you but know that many others are rejoicing, including all the precious children in heaven that now have a wonderful guardian angel of their own. We loved you yesterday, today and will every tomorrow.

Rosanne is survived by her daughter, Kathy (James Mathew “Matt” Bourne) Bourne; two sons, Ross (Tammy) Telfer, Bruce (Julie) Telfer.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Alex, in 1994; and her son, Scott, in 1991.

Visitation will be held from noon to 2 p.m., Monday, May 14, at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with funeral services following at 2 p.m. Rosanne will be interred during a private graveside service at Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte.

The family expresses its deepest appreciation to Silverado Oak Village where Mom has been loved and cared for over the last seven years, Community Memorial Hospital and Horizon Hospice. They all surrounded her with love and wonderful care.

If desired, the family suggests memorial tributes to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Eastern Wisconsin, Inc., 8948 Watertown Plank Rd., Milwaukee, WI 53226, where they house and support families whose children are having medical treatment at Children’s Hospital.  She loved the gardens and the house there and has always loved children.

The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Family and friends are encouraged to share remembrances and condolences online in Rosanne’s tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.

-

Funeral Services:

Sylvia  Williams, 86, of Vermontville passed away peacefully Wednesday, May 2, 2018 at her home.

Funeral Services will be held at The Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 5, with Pastor Karen Kinney officiating.

The family will receive visitors on Friday, May 4, 2018, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Daniels Funeral Home. Interment will take place immediately following the funeral service at Freemire Cemetery in Sunfield Township.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Maple Valley Scholarship Foundation or the Lake Odessa Historical Society.

For further details, please visit danielsfuneralhome.net.