Schari Lynn (Evans) Bartholomew, 77, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2024 at her home in Schoolcraft. She was born on July 1, 1947, in Kalamazoo, the daughter of Richard and Irene (Knapp) Evans. Schari was a 1965 graduate of Comstock High School. She loved time with family and friends. She also enjoyed working with horses and trail rides with friends. Surviving are her daughter, Toni Lentner (Paul Florshinger); son Kenny (Caroline) Hall; grandchildren Amber (Matt) Cole, Roberta (Anthony Servello) Lentner, Corey Neudeck, Cameron Hall, and Arianna Hall.; great grandchildren Kaleb, Isabella and Alex; niece Janette (Tim) Hendrix; nephews Scott (Gayle) Evans and Paul (Sara) Evans; and close friend Chuck Wilson. She was preceded in death by her father Richard Evans Sr.; mother Irene Evans; brother Richard Evans Jr.; and nephew Mark Evans. In accordance with the family’s wishes no public services will be held. Memorials in Schari’s memory can be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Wounded Warriors. While at http://www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Schari’s guestbook and share a memory with her family. The Bartholomew family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, Schoolcraft.
Mark G Behrens, 74, Lawton, passed away into the presence of his lord and savior Jesus Christ on November 20, 2024 after a short bout with cancer. Mark was born in Kalamazoo to the late Lloyd “Mick” and Stella “Mae” (Visscher) Behrens on November 6, 1950. He was a model of faith, integrity, clear thinking, wise provision, perseverance, kindness and courtesy to all who had the privilege of knowing him. Mark is survived by his wife of 53 years, Joan (Steffet) Behrens; their children Kevin (Lorie) Behrens and Keith (Lynn) Behrens; and his grandchildren Kora (Ben Taylor), Mary, Owen, Rosa (Kevin and Lorie), Lily, Addison, Taylor and Henley (Keith and Lynn). He is also survived by his brother Joel (Valerie). The visitation is December 7, 2024, from noon to 2 p.m. at Calvary Chapel, 5331 S. Sprinkle, Portage – the old Harley dealership. An informal service will follow at 2 p.m. Visit http://www.amsfuneralhomes.com to read Mark’s life story, sign his guestbook and share your favorite memory with his family. In lieu of flowers, consider donating to Kairos Dwelling. The Behrens family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home and Cremation Society, Schoolcraft.
John (Jack) Anthony Beran, 81, Schoolcraft, passed away October 24, 2024. He was born in Pittsburgh July 5, 1943 to John A. and Virginia A. (Didia) Beran. John met Julie, the love of his life, before their senior year in Rosedale High School. They were voted “Couple Most Likely to Stay Together” and they did for over 60 years. He was a loving husband, father, and Pappy. John retired from the Upjohn Company as a multi-craft supervisor. He and Julie were able to enjoy many years of retirement. They loved going to breakfast and took many road trips, always with the oldies channel on the radio. He was so proud of his children and grandkids and faithfully attended every school function, sporting events, and concert they participated in. John enjoyed antique collecting, Breweriana, bowling, Allis-Chalmers tractors and classic cars. John was preceded in death by his wife, Julie, and his parents. He is survived by daughters Diana Beran, Kathy (Kevin) Richards, and Cindy Beran; brother Richard (Bonnie) Beran; grandchildren Emily (Cody) Marshall, Alysia Stozicki (Brian), Ethan (Isabela) Richards, and Nicholas Richards; great-grandchildren Malia, Marcus, Chase, Adalyn, Paxton, and Eliot. John is now an angel in heaven. We know he will still be with us and guide us in our lives. He will be greatly missed. Donations may go to Milestone Senior Service.
Randy W. Bright, 67, Vicksburg, formerly of Mendon, passed away October 30, 2024, after a brief illness. Randy was born in Anderson, Indiana, the son of Joyce Bright. He attended Mendon High School where he enjoyed playing football. During Randy’s life, he loved adventure and lived in many wonderful places. Some of his favorite places were Thailand, Myrtle Beach and Texas. He was a very social person and loved by all that knew him. When he had time, he enjoyed being outdoors near water and fishing. He is survived by his sisters Debra (Vern Overweg) Bright and Pam (Norm) Overweg, both of Vicksburg. He is also survived by his four nieces and nephews, Ryan Bright of Vicksburg, Kelly (Tyler) Overweg of Augusta, Matt (Alex) Overweg of Caledonia, and Suzanna (Alec) Iwasko of Kalamazoo, and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his mother, Joyce Bright Sinclair and grandparents Willard and Helen Bright. Randy has been cremated and no services are planned at this time. While at http://www.amsfuneralhomes.com, please take time to sign Randy’s guestbook and share your favorite memory with his family. Those who wish may make contributions to Generous Hands and South County Community Services.
Betty Ann Butcher, 87, Portage, passed away November 16, 2024. She was born October 14, 1937, in Vicksburg, the daughter of Lawrence and Daisy (Barber) Grinder. Betty graduated from Vicksburg High School in 1955. On April 14, 1962, Betty married Thomas Butcher, and together they raised their family. She worked as a school aide with Portage Public Schools until her retirement in 1993. Betty was very proud to live in Portage and was involved in many activities, including Cub Scout den mother, scorekeeper for the church softball team, and a supporter of little league baseball for her sons. She was a founding member of Portage Free Methodist Church, now known as Renovations Church. She was preceded in death by her husband Thomas; grandson Tanner Flynn; parents; and siblings Doris Grinder, Charlie Grinder, and Dick Grinder. Betty is survived by her sons Terry (Lisa) Butcher of Portage and Gary (Sally) Butcher of Galesburg; grandchildren Rachel (Dan) Jarvis of Indiana, Tiffany Butcher of Portage, Tyler (Dana) Flynn of Kalamazoo, Hayden Butcher of Kalamazoo and Haley Butcher of Kalamazoo; and great grandchildren Zoe and Ophelia Flynn. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews, as well as her kitty Xavier. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com. Donations may go to St Michael Lutheran School and Kalamazoo Community Presbyterian.
Gertrude Regina Chapin passed away November 16, 2024, surrounded by her husband and daughters at home in Schoolcraft. Gertrude (Trudi) was born October 27, 1931, in Boston, Massachusetts to Earl and Wilma Buchanan, who died when she was very young. She graduated from Whitman High School in 1950 and from Boston Clerical School in 1952. One of her first jobs was at the Commonwealth Shoe and Leather Company. Once she moved to Michigan, she had a long career at the Kalamazoo County State Bank. Trudi married John Firman Chapin at the Whitman Baptist Church on October 19, 1957. The couple just celebrated their 67th anniversary and spent their lives together on the Chapin family farm. Trudi raised two daughters that survive her, Stephanie Chapin and Melanie Chapin-Lechner. She is also survived by her husband John; daughters Stephanie Chapin and Melanie Chapin-Lechner; grandson Zachary Lechner; and son in law Jerry Lechner. She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings Augusta (Gus), Earl and Grace. Trudi loved to dance and travel. She played the organ, and collected dolls. Services have been held. Donations and memorials can be sent to either the Kalamazoo Humane Society, Charles and Lynn Zhang Animal Care and Resources Center, or to Centrica Care Navigators. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
Donald E. “Butch” Dalman, 79, Fulton, passed away November 12, 2024. Don was born February 15, 1945, in Vicksburg, the son of Donald P. and Mildred (Huntington) Dalman. In 1963, he graduated from Vicksburg High School, where he played football and was a member of the Future Farmers of America. Following high school, he began in farming and transitioned to Globe Construction, where he devoted over 20 years. He then worked for the Kalamazoo County Road Commission for another 20 years before retirement. On August 20, 1988, Don married Kathy (Galbraith). Don was an avid outdoorsman with a passion for hunting and fishing. He took on the role of “neighborhood watch” with his dog Molly. Don was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Steven Dalman. He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Kathy; children Kathleen (Ruben) Dalman of Portage, Daniel (Victoria) Dalman of Scotts, Timothy (Nicole) Dalman of Scotts, and Derek (Elisha) Dalman of Zeeland; eight grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings Richard “Hub” Dalman of Scotts, Bonnie (Dave) Gorham of Georgia, Linda (Tom) Campos of Bangor and Judy Reynolds of Kalamazoo. Visit his page at amsfuneralhomes.com. Donations may go to the Michigan Outdoor Wish Makers.
Ty “TyBob” Robert Flick, 50, Vicksburg, passed away November 11, 2024. He was born August 14, 1974 in Flint, and in 1994 graduated from Flushing High School where he played on the football team. After high school, Ty served in the United States Army from 1994-2003, achieving the rank of sergeant. His military service took him to various corners of the world, including Iraq, Pakistan, Kuwait, Panama, and Cuba. After his service, Ty worked at Adient, formerly known as Johnson Control, as the director of manufacturing strategy. He married Christina Battstone on June 23, 2007, and together they created a family. He enjoyed grilling and family gatherings. Ty is survived by his wife of 17 years Christina; children Hayden, Connor, and Gannon; mother Jacquelin Flick, of Flushing; siblings Lee (Katy) Flick of Texas and Dana Flick of Flushing; and several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his in-laws, Richard and Deborah Battstone, of Flushing. Ty was preceded in death by three babies that passed prematurely but are forever in their parents’ hearts. Services have been held. While at http://www.amsfuneralhomes.com you can sign his guestbook and share your favorite memory with his family. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Christina Flick for savings for the children. The Flick family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, Vicksburg.
Homer William Green, 93, Scotts, passed away September 15, 2024. He was born at home prematurely on September 28, 1930, to William R. Green and Florence Mildred “Tilly” (Torrey) Green in Litchfield. He attended Litchfield High School as well as Ann Arbor High School; later earning a GED. On June 30, 1950, in Tecumseh, Michigan, Homer married Geraldine Elizebeth (Jean) Stephens. Their 55 year marriage was marked by endless banter, teamwork, and enduring love. Homer was industrious, self-educated, and mechanically inclined. Homer lived out his faith as evidenced by acts of service with an attitude of humility, love, and compassion. He enjoyed woodworking, reading, collecting and polishing rocks and minerals for jewelry making. As a lifelong learner, he took courses in computer and photography later in life. Homer was active in Masons, Rotary, and the Methodist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, older siblings Alice, Charles, and Helen, as well as his wife, Jean Green. Homer is survived by his children, Patricia “Peggy” (James) Bird, William “Bill” (Noelene) Green; grandchildren Eric Bird, Sarah (Richard) Place, Rebekah (Brian) Wyse, Noelle (Eric) Pustelak, and James (Renee Steinmayer) Green. Great grandchildren are Lillith Pustelak, Abigail and Elijah Place, Emerson and Benjamin Wyse. Donations may go to Oglala Lakota College.
Marlene Kay (Clubb) Hambright, Vicksburg, passed away peacefully October 31, 2024. She was born March 2, 1940, in Bedford, Indiana, the daughter of Perl Clubb and Clara (Dalton) Clark. Marlene married Alvin Hambright Sr. on June 2, 1956 in Vicksburg. Alvin passed away on March 23, 1985. They raised three children, Cindy L. Smith (Mark), Alvin Lee Hambright Jr. (Betty), and Edward Hambright (Theresa). She is remembered by grandchildren Eric Smith (Jody Maloney), Scott Smith (Andrea Corpolongo), Stacy Kay Smith (Seth Reedy), Brandon Hambright (Chelsea), Jared Hambright (Chrissy), Levi Hambright and 10 great-grandchildren. On August 22, 1987, Marlene married Phillip Newkirk. They made their home in Greenville, Michigan and enjoyed traveling. Marlene later moved to Ludington. Marlene worked as a patient attendant at the Kalamazoo Psychiatric Hospital from 1969 to 1984. She enjoyed cooking and baking and spending time with her family. Besides her first husband, Alvin, Marlene was preceded in death by her son Alvin Jr., second husband Phillip Newkirk, father Perl Clubb, mother Clara (Dalton) Clark, brother Chuck Clark, and brother Larry Clubb. Memorials made in Marlene’s memory may be directed to Toys for Tots or a charity of choice. While at http://www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Marlene’s guestbook and share a memory with her family.
Andrew Charles Hetrick was born March 16, 1966, the youngest child of Donald and Rosalie (Verburg) Hetrick. Andy married his high school sweetheart in June of 1984, and they went on to welcome four children of their own: Jessica (Chuck) Eyster of Vicksburg, Joseph (Brittany) Hetrick of Schoolcraft, Timothy (Katrina) Hetrick of Schoolcraft, and Maria (Andrew) Brandt of Portage. Andy loved being outside. In his younger years he played softball after work on adult leagues, and eventually moved into throwing horseshoes. He enjoyed tinkering on his 1965 Pontiac GTO and loving on one of his beloved dogs. He was most proud of his four children. In the final years of his life, Andy unfortunately battled many health issues that diminished his quality of life. He ultimately went home to be with the Lord and to finally be pain-free on November 12, 2024. Andy leaves behind so many people who loved him: his parents, his siblings and their spouses, many nieces and nephews whom he adored. He is also survived by his four children and their spouses, and eleven grandchildren, who called him “Bampa”: Madeline, Tristan, Bryce, Drew, Jackson, Audrey, Kennedy, Charlotte, Sawyer, Layla, and Oliva. Memorial contributions in his memory may be made to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism or to Rose Arbor Hospice. Visit his page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
Maurice Randall Hovious, 87, Vicksburg, was taken to his heavenly home on October 8, 2024. Maurice was born on March 9, 1937 in Breeding, Kentucky. He was the son of Paul and Verna (Davis) Hovious. He was a man of great faith and leaves behind a legacy of hard work. Maurice fell in love with Judy Cox at the ripe old age of 15. They were married in 1956 and recently celebrated their 68th anniversary. They raised 2 children, Keith and Michele. Maurice served in the U.S. Air Force. His pilot ratings included private, commercial, instrument, instructor, multi-engine, airline transport, commercial helicopter, seaplane, and hot air balloon. Maurice and Judy moved to Kalamazoo, MI in 1964 where he focused on aircraft repair, restoration and salvage. Maurice was inducted into the Michigan Aviation Hall of Fame. Maurice is survived by his wife Judy; his two children: Keith (Jackie) Hovious and Michele (Tom) McSpadden; four grandchildren: Korey Hovious, Sara (Matt) Aeed, Adam (Whitney) Heath, and Ryan (Elizabeth) Heath; his 4 great grandchildren: Madison, Peyton, Miles, and Maiya. He is also survived by his brother Jerry (Carolyn) Hovious; sister, Sue Hovious (Ira); sister-in-law Nancy Powell-Cox, and many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents. Donations can be made to Centrica Care Navigators or to Texas Corners Bible Church. Visit his page at langelands.com.
Bryan Huey, 68, Kalamazoo, passed away November 1, 2024. He was born in Three Rivers, the son of the late Glenn Huey and Harriet (Miller) Mardis. He graduated from Vicksburg High School class of 1974, and remained a loyal “Bulldog”, always looking forward to the next class reunion. After graduating he went on to earn an associate’s degree in business from Kalamazoo Valley. From 1986 to 2002 he was a co-owner of B&L Bolt Company, 2002 to 2013 owned and operated Alpha Massage; was manager at Edward Rose & Sons from 2017 to 2020, worked as a Lyft driver from 2017 to 2024 and was lastly employed as a chauffeur at Stryker. Bryan loved theater and enjoyed acting in and stage-managing productions at the Civic, Parish, Knockabout and New Vic theaters. He was also proud to have spent 15 years as a participant in the Vicksburg Rotary Showboat. He was an avid Michigan Wolverines and Green Bay Packers fan. He loved being outdoors and enjoyed riding his bike whenever possible. He leaves to cherish his memory daughters Andrea (Ben) Khlevnoy and Erin (Athens) Love; granddaughter Evelyn Khlevnoy; siblings Stephanie (Ron) Huey, Cynthia Rutledge, Michael Huey, Malcolm Huey, Shayne (Jamie) Huey, Brad (Shelley) Oleksyn, Bret (Kris) Oleksyn, Sean (Well) Mardis, Patricia (Cary) Brooks; many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. He was preceded in passing by a sister, Glenna Huey. In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place and private family services are being held. Memorial contributions may be given to Bare Backstage Productions, the production company that produced Bryan’s last performance, Quatrefoil.
Monica Hughes passed away November 25, 2024. Monica was born April 11, 1942, in Chicago, to Anne and John Mihalo. She had one younger sister, Johnetta, who preceded her in death. Monica graduated from George Rogers Clark High School in 1960 and attended Indiana State College in Terra Haute. She married Robert Hughes in 1964 and worked at Indiana University while Bob was getting his MBA. Monica and Bob had two daughters, Lynn (Troy) Blake and Debra (Matt) Swope; grandchildren Andrew (Kate) Vroman, James Vroman, Amanda (Jack) Levy, Nicholas (Olivia) Swope and Hunter Blake; and great-grandchildren Mason and Emma Vroman. Monica loved and cherished them all and loved spending time and doing things with them. Monica loved to play tennis and later in life took up golf which she lived to play socially. Family was always the center of her focus and attention, and she was a very warm and loving person. Monica and Bob returned to Naples Florida in 2001 and enjoyed their active life there, but Monica always cherished the family visits and loved being with the grandkids. In 2020, Monica and Bob bought a home back in Portage, so they could spend summers with their family. Monica has been cremated and there are no services scheduled at this time. While at http://www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Monica’s guestbook and share your favorite memory with her family. The Hughes family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home and Cremation Society, Portage.
Judy M. Linders, 85 of Portage, entered her eternal home November 14, 2024. Judy was born November 10, 1939, in Kalamazoo to Norman and Ruth Pomeroy. Judy graduated from Schoolcraft High School and built a successful career as a loan officer, retiring in 1998. Judy found joy in playing cards, knitting, working on puzzles, and gathering for games with friends and family. In 1961, Judy married Don Linders and together they raised their four children. Judy’s family includes her children Lori (Kevin) VanDyke, Dave (Laura) Linders, Mike (Donna) Linders, and Dan Linders; grandchildren Ashley (Leland) Lickfelt, Jordan (Katelyn) VanDyke, Matthew (Kristina) VanDyke, Zackery Linders, Joshua Linders, Chelsea Linders, Kylie Linders, and Jeremy Linders; and great-grandchildren Harrison and Liam (Jordan and Katelyn), Haylee (Ashley and Leland), and Kinsley (Matthew and Kristina). She is also survived by her brother, Bob (Mary) Pomeroy, and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place in her heart. Judy was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Don; her parents, Norman and Ruth; her brother, David; and her granddaughter, Kara Linders. Services have been held. To honor Judy’s memory, please visit her memorial webpage to share a memory, sign the guestbook, or view photos of her life well-lived. Memorials may be made to Samaritan’s Purse, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or the First Presbyterian Church of Schoolcraft. While at http://www.amsfuneralhomes.com, please take time to sign Judy’s guestbook and share a memory with her family.
Craig (Mac) William McIlroy, 60, passed away unexpectedly on October 26, 2024, from a heart attack. He was born August 22, 1964, in Kalamazoo. Craig grew up there and excelled as a youth baseball player. After high school, he obtained his journeyman’s license and proudly joined Local #7 Sheet Metal Union, where he dedicated many years of hard work before retiring in 2019. He found joy in hunting, fishing, and foraging for morel mushrooms and pudding stones. One of his favorite pastimes was walking the shores of Lake Michigan in search of Petoskey stones. Craig was a talented mandolin player and enjoyed countless jam sessions with friends around a fire, swapping stories that would warm the soul. An animal lover through and through, Craig had a soft spot for his many pets, from the Minx cats at West Lake to the Bengals in Fulton. He lived a life filled with creativity, kindness, and generosity, always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Craig is survived by his wife and partner of 37 years, Maria Dahlinger; mother and stepfather, Lynnet and Milton Bennett; father, Samuel John McIlroy; sister, Michele Leonard (McIlroy); brother, Kurt McIlroy; and many cherished nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and extended family. Craig was preceded in death by his stepmother, Janet McIlroy, and his grandparents, the McIlroys and Groesbecks. His family and friends will honor his life with a Celebration of Life at a later date. “The journey doesn’t end here… No goodbyes, friends forever.”
Preston Jon Mitchell, 33, a cherished son, beloved brother, and devoted uncle, passed away October 23, 2024, in Vicksburg. He was born December 31, 1990, in Hermon, New York, to Matt and Tamara (Carr) Mitchell. Preston graduated in 2009 from Bronson High School where he participated in wrestling, football and track. He earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Western Michigan University and became a certified public accountant. Preston had an adventurous spirit, loved to travel, and embraced new experiences. He had a knack for construction, enjoying the process of building and flipping homes as a side passion. He also loved his family and enjoyed time with his nieces and nephews. Preston is survived by his parents Matthew and Tamara Mitchell of Vicksburg. He is also survived by Burren (Steven) Faltesek of Quincy, Andrea Lucas of Vicksburg, Ashley (Brent) Rissman of Union City, Anthony (Alyssa) Mitchell of Portage, and Nicholas (Breanna) Mitchell of Portage. He is also survived by his grandmother Leslie Mitchell of New York and his nine nieces and nephews (and one on the way). He was preceded in death by his grandparents Maynard Mitchell and Cleo and Barbara Carr. Preston is being cremated and at this time no services are planned. While at http://www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Preston’s guestbook and share your favorite memory with his family. The Mitchell family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home and Cremation Society, Vicksburg.
Karen J. Nichols (née Kramer), 69, Wickenburg, Arizona passed away peacefully on September 13, 2024, with family by her side. Karen grew up in Marshall and graduated in 1973 from Marshall High School. She attended Western Michigan University before transferring to the School of Nursing at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo. She graduated in 1978 and worked at Bronson for the next 38 years as a registered nurse. Karen was dedicated to the care and wellbeing of her patients. She loved bedside nursing and saw it as the true definition of nursing. Before her death, her devotion to quality care and the impact she had on her patients, their families, and the nursing profession was recognized during a very special tribute by the Arizona Nurses Honor Guard. She married Paul Nichols in 1986 and together they raised their son Blake in Portage. After she and Paul moved to Arizona in 2018, Karen volunteered at the Wickenburg Humane Society. Karen had a contagious laugh and loved being a mother. Karen will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 38 years, Paul; son Blake; twin sister Kathleen Heath (Alex), brother Al Kramer (Kathy), and many other family members, close friends, and nursing colleagues. Karen was predeceased by her parents: Rheatha Tallenger and Al Kramer, Sr. A celebration of Karen’s life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made in Karen’s name to the Wickenburg Humane Society or your local chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.
Marjorie Ann Pavlick died of natural causes September 19, 2024 in Missoula, Montana. She was born January 15, 1933 in Hastings, the daughter of Myra and Donald Wright. They lived in Dowling, where her parents owned and operated the general store and gas station, and Myra served as postmistress. Marjorie attended high school in Hastings, then went on to Western Michigan University where she earned a degree in elementary education. She married Stanley Pavlick on June 30, 1956 in the Dowling Methodist Church. The Pavlicks moved to several locations in Michigan and Ontario, Canada as Stan began his engineering career. In 1962, they settled in Vicksburg. In 1972 the family moved to Missoula, Montana, where Marj spent most of the remainder of her life. She enjoyed baking, quilting, sewing, and spent many summers at the family cabin at Seeley Lake. Upon Stan’s retirement, the couple enjoyed traveling. Marj found great joy in her grandchildren. Marj was preceded in death by her parents, sister, husband Stanley and an infant son. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Sue and Ken Colyer of Missoula, and her son and daughter-in-law, Doug and Sue Pavlick of Billings. She is also survived by grandsons Mitch (Brooke), Lane (Danielle) and Evan (Hailey Hall) Colyer; great-grandsons Callahan and William Colyer; and bonus grandchildren through Doug’s marriage to Sue, Nicolas Talmark, Kenny Robinson and Melinda Strasburger. At Marjorie’s request, no service is planned. The family thanks the providers at The Springs Living memory care unit, and Partners in Home Care hospice.
Terry James Reminga, 72, Vicksburg, passed away peacefully October 29, 2024. Terry was born in Jackson on November 4, 1951, to Robert and Marie (Naujalis) Reminga. Terry graduated from Ottawa Hills High School in 1969 and earned a bachelor’s in business administration from Western Michigan University in 1973. He founded European Import Services in 1974 and served the Kalamazoo community for over 40 years. On November 27, 1977, Terry married Bonnie Holden, with whom he built a wonderful family. Terry was happiest in the great outdoors, whether he was camping, fishing, boating, water-skiing, or snow-skiing. He also had a passion for cars; as an avid enthusiast and collector, he found joy both in the mechanics and beauty of the vehicles he so admired. He was an Eagle Scout and a master in the kitchen. Terry was preceded in death by his parents, sister Lois (Jim) and stepmother, Margaret. He is survived by his wife, Bonnie; children Sean (Margaret) and René (Chris); grandchildren Callie, Lucas, Isabelle, Madeline, and Alexander; brothers Richard (Sue) and Carl (Elena); a sister, Candice (Bruce); and many extended family members and friends. In accordance with the family’s wishes, cremation has taken place and services have been held. Memorials made in Terry’s memory can be directed to treating Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) https://raiseyourwayforaha.funraise.org/fundraiser/terry-reminga. While at http://www.amsfuneralhomes.com, please take time to sign Terry’s guestbook and share a memory with his family.
Timothy Kevin Sabin, 70, Three Rivers, passed away peacefully at his daughter’s home September 30, 2024. Tim was born May 21, 1954 in Albion to the late Milford and Norma (Hardwick) Sabin. He graduated from Vicksburg High School. Tim married Karen Hatfield and together they raised their three children. Tim had a passion for anything fast. Over the years he enjoyed racing go karts and was recently able to purchase and race his own dragster. He loved fastpitch softball, and as a left-handed pitcher he played for many teams in many states. He enjoyed playing guitar with his band “Nicky Platinum” and was a member of the United Methodist Worship team where he strummed the guitar strings. Tim was employed at Simpson Paper and American Axle where he retired as an instrument technician. Tim is survived by his children, Jenni (Art) Roberts and Justin (Hope) Sabin. His grandchildren brought him immense joy, especially his “Little Buddy” Vanessa the youngest, along with countless friends and family. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Karen, son, Jeremy, and his infant brother, Mark and many brothers and sisters-in-law. Visit his page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
Brenda Kay (Pridemore) Schanz, 70, Mendon Township, passed away October 9, 2024, after a lengthy battle with respiratory illness. Born October 3, 1954 in Garden City Hospital, Brenda was the daughter of Clarence and Bertha Pridemore. She graduated from Taylor High School and spent nearly twenty years working at DHL before turning her focus to the medical field. As a resident assistant at Homelife Care, Brenda dedicated herself to providing compassionate personal care and support to residents. Brenda was preceded in death by her beloved twin sister, Glenda (Fred) Tews. She is survived by her sons, Jeremy (Stacy) Mullins and Thomas Mullins; grandchildren Jayse, Colyn, Caitlyn, Jacob, Lilly, and Corbyn; brothers Michael Pridemore and Robert (Carol) Pridemore; husband, Timothy Schanz, and his children, Taylor Schanz and Matthew (Megan) Schanze, and their two children, Emma and Kate. She also leaves behind her feathery companion of 29 years, an African grey parrot named Satch. A passionate reader, Brenda particularly loved the Harry Potter series and had a fondness for country music. After moving to Portage Lake in Mendon Township, she became an integral part of the Vicksburg community, regularly seen with a circle of friends at the Vicksburg Village Hideaway. Her warmth, kindness, and deep appreciation for family and friends will be fondly remembered. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
Sharon Ann Schmitt, 75, Schoolcraft, a beloved daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away comfortably at home on November 4, 2024. Throughout her life, she made significant contributions to her family, community, and profession. She was born May 25, 1949, in Kalamazoo. She graduated from Kalamazoo Loy Norrix High School in 1967 and furthered her education at Western Michigan University. Sharon dedicated 30 years to serving as an office manager for several dental practices, showcasing her organizational skills and commitment to a welcoming and well-run work environment. Beyond her career, Sharon cherished spending time with her family. She was a loving mother who played an integral role in her children’s education, helping them with their schoolwork and guiding them as they embarked on their journeys through college and onto leading meaningful lives. Sharon enjoyed quilting and crocheting, crafts expressing her love and creativity, and was an avid reader and published writer. She was generous in her volunteer efforts and produced beautiful quilts for charitable organizations. She supported Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, reflecting her love for all living beings. Sharon is survived by her loving husband, Wes Schmitt; children Margaret (Stephen) Long and David Paul (Ann) Schmitt; granddaughter Sarah (Tyler Nichols) Schmitt; sisters Shirley Percy and Susan Everts, and their families, as well as numerous cousins and their families. Sharon was preceded in death by her parents, Dale and Jean Everts, and her beloved son, John Schmitt. Sharon Ann Schmitt leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and community service that will resonate in the hearts of her family and friends forever. Donations may go to Kalamazoo Community Foundation, 402 E. Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49007, designating your gift to Schoolcraft Community Foundation Fund / Schmitt Family Scholarship Fund.
Joyce E. Stevenson, 90, passed away peacefully October 31, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and warmth. She was a loving wife to husband Richard and devoted mother to children Tom (Paula) Clements, Pam (Mark) Rambow, Cheryl (Ernie) Green, Michael (Kelly) Clements, Michele (Jim) Miklusicak and Todd (Crystal) Ontis. She was also a stepmother to Char (Jeff) Koenig; a grandmother of 17; great-grandmother of 18; and great-great grandmother of four. She also had many who considered her Mom and Grandma. Joyce also had three brothers and two sisters. Joyce was preceded in death by her parents Carl and Thelma DeGoede, her loving brother Carl and great-grandson Andy. She enjoyed reading, knitting, crocheting and traveling, but most of all, she loved picking on her grandkids! Joyce worked as an accountant, tax preparer and bookkeeper for more than 20 years, retiring in 2005. Joyce was a woman whose kindness, compassion and sense of humor left an indelible mark on everyone she met. Her legacy of love and family will be carried forward by those who knew and loved her. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
Ann Y. Wedel, 88, passed away November 12, 2024. She was born April 10, 1936, the daughter of Deo and Yvonne (Brown) Henry. Ann graduated from Climax High School in 1954. She married Walter Wedel on December 11, 1954. She enjoyed cooking, bowling, horseshoe pitching, and playing in shuffleboard competitions around the world. Ann was inducted into the Michigan Horseshoe Pitcher Hall of Fame, Florida State Association Shuffleboard Hall of Fame, and the USA National Shuffleboard Association Player Hall of Fame, and the Michigan Farmers Hall of Fame. She was a member of Wakeshma Community Church and founded the Harvest Supper. Ann was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Walter, her parents, and son-in-law John Frakes. She is survived by her children, Ben Wedel, Cyndi Frakes, Tim Wedel, and Lori (David) Fry; grandchildren Jonathon (Michele) Frakes, Heather Frakes, Jessica (Randy) Bartholomew, Michael (Catherine) Fry, Travis (Vanessa) Fry, and Levi Fry; and 10 great grandchildren. Donations may go to ChapNaz Clothes Closet or CorsoCare Hospice. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
