Michael Severn Anderson, 83, Kalamazoo, passed away at home January 2, 2025, after a long illness. Michael was born in Kalamazoo on January 8, 1941, to Lawrence S. Anderson and Evelyn Leone (Briley) Anderson. On May 16, 1967, Michael married Anne (Pahl) Anderson. Their marriage of 25 years produced two daughters, Andrea and Caroline. After the end of his marriage to Anne, Michael married Catherine (Atkinson) Anderson who died on May 14, 1998. After Catherine’s death Michael married Christine (Hickok) Anderson on May 18, 2002. Michael retired from James River Corp. Michael served in the US Navy. A proud Catholic, he established several groups and events for the Kalamazoo Diocese. Michael is survived by his wife, Christine “Deena” Anderson; daughters Andrea Anderson and Caroline N. (Eric) Anderson-Kerney; step-sister Susan (Mattes) Coash; half-brothers Bruce Fulbright and David Fulbright; step-sons Matthew (Betsy) Hickok and Ross (Erica) Hickok; grandchildren Tove Kerney, Matthew and Liberty Hickok, Justin and Jacob Souza; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Barbara J. (Anderson) Gobel, step-parents Marion Millhouse Mattes and James D. Fulbright; and step-brother Charles Millhouse Mattes. Donations may go to St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church. Visit his page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
Carl Beebe passed away January 19, 2025, just 11 days after his beloved wife of 60 years, Irene. His family finds comfort in knowing Carl is now reunited with Irene, free from the struggles he faced in his later years. Carl was born February 7, 1940 and proudly served his country in the United States Army, a chapter of his life he held with great pride. After his service, he dedicated over 30 years as Fulton’s postmaster, where he became a trusted and familiar face in the community, known for his exceptional storytelling and sharp sense of humor. Family was at the heart of everything Carl did. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, finding immense joy in spending time with his children and grandchildren. Whether coaching Little League, sharing his latest tale, or offering words of encouragement, Carl’s love and presence were constant and unwavering. In his later years, Carl bravely faced the challenges of dementia. As heartbreaking as his passing is, his family is deeply thankful he is at peace and reunited with Irene. Carl is survived by sons Carl (Lisa) and Steve (Carrie), and grandchildren Rob, Amber, Jonah, and Elle. A private memorial service will be held to honor Carl’s remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, honor Carl’s memory by sharing a story, a laugh, or a moment of kindness with those you cherish. Visit his page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
Irene Beebe, Vicksburg, passed away January 8, 2025, surrounded by her family. Irene was born October 12, 1943, and was known for her selflessness and kindness. Irene always placed the needs of others before her own and became a second mom to many of her children’s friends. Her home was a haven, filled with laughter, baked treats, and the comforting knowledge that you were always welcome. Over the years, she rescued and cared for dozens of animals, treating each one with the same gentle compassion that defined her life. She was known for her kind gestures—baking cakes and cookies, knitting hats and slippers, and sewing Halloween costumes, always with her own personal touch. She never missed her children or grandchildren’s events. She celebrated every victory and comforted every defeat, reminding all those she loved that they were enough just as they were. In her later years, she faced family health challenges with grace, faith, and determination. Her resilience in the face of adversity was a testament to her strength and spirit. Above all, Irene loved unconditionally and endlessly. Irene leaves behind her loving husband of 60 years, Carl Beebe, along with sons Carl (Lisa) and Steve (Carrie) and grandchildren, Rob, Amber, Jonah and Elle. Honor her memory by extending an act of kindness to someone in need. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
Dorothy Buckmaster, a beloved mother, grandmother, and devoted educator, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2025, at Kairos Dwelling in Kalamazoo, where she spent her last moments surrounded by serenity. Born on February 4, 1956, at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo, Dorothy was a proud graduate of Vicksburg High School, class of 1974. Her compassionate spirit led her to a remarkable 21-year career at Comstock Public Schools, where she dedicated herself to working with special needs children. Dorothy loved gardening and attending Radiant Church in Richland. Family was of utmost importance to Dorothy. She held her daughter, Mellisa Buckmaster, and granddaughter, Cadence Buckmaster, close to her heart. Her husband, Mark Buckmaster, was her partner in life, and even though they had divorced, they remained on good terms. She was surrounded by the warmth and support of her siblings Charlie Shearer, Kathy Shearer, Denise Shearer, Mary Nguyen (Nghiem), and sister-in-law Carol Shearer. She was predeceased by her parents, Lynn and Doris Shearer, as well as her brothers and sisters Butch, Paul, Ray, Andy, Joe and Margie. The family will receive friends at St. Martin’s Church for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, February 22, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit her page at amshfuneralhomes.com. Donations may go to Cadance’s College Fund c/o Mellisa Brown or Kairos Dwelling.
Mary Cousins, 90, Climax, passed away peacefully January 5, 2025. Mary was born December 20, 1934, and graduated in 1953 from Vicksburg High School. She worked for over 20 years for the Upjohn Company. On June 21, 1953, she married the love of her life, James Cousins. Together, they celebrated an extraordinary 71 years of marriage and raised six children. She enjoyed baking and family gatherings. In her younger years she enjoyed bowling, golfing and traveling. She was a dedicated mother, grandmother and friend. Mary is survived by her husband of 71 years, James; children Sindy (Michael) Quigley, of Grand Rapids, Sandy (Ron) Blair, of Fulton, Shaun (Dave) Rapp, of Kalamazoo, Scott Cousins, of Kalamazoo, and Steve (Michele Deptula) Cousins, of Illinois; seven grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother William Henderson of Leonidas; sister Pat Smith of Sturgis and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Sheryl Cousins; parents William Henderson and Dorothy Henderson Lude; siblings Kenneth Todd, Donna Dorrance and Richard Henderson. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com. Donations may go to Centrica Care Navigators and Kalamazoo Gospel Mission.
Sharon Joan Cummings, 91, Marcellus, passed away January 20, 2025 at her home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born January 7, 1934, in Elkhart, Indiana, the daughter of George and Doris (Hastings) Rose, and graduated from Elkhart High School with the class of 1952. Sharon earned her bachelor’s degree from Goshen College and pursued further education at WMU, earning master’s degrees in education and educational leadership. She taught at White Pigeon Community Schools and later became principal at various schools in Michigan. She loved to collect children’s books. On May 21, 1955, Sharon married Carl Kay Cummings. They loved to travel and raised four children together. She also enjoyed water skiing, camping, creating art and spending time with family at their property in Bear Lake, Michigan. Remaining to cherish her memory are her husband, Carl Cummings; children Brent (Allison) Cummings, Terri Cummings (Andrée Jove), Rex (Renae) Cummings, and Troy (Leonora) Cummings; grandchildren Spencer, Brittany (Dave), Lauren, and Ethan (Caroline); great-grandchildren Sidney, Fayte, Vivian, Sawyer, and Charlie. She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Janice (Rose) Pedler; and a brother, Dennis. A memorial service will be held at a later date. She will be laid to rest in Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Donations may go to vicksburgarts.org. Visit her page at http://www.hohnerfh.com.
Richard “Hub” Allan Dalman, 72, Scotts, passed away January 17, 2025. Hub was born July 4, 1952, in Vicksburg, the son of Mildred (Huntington) Hendrixson and Donald Dalman. Hub graduated from Vicksburg High School in 1970. He grew up and worked on the farm, then worked for Kalamazoo Stamping & Die for many years before he went on to work for Michigan Paving as a roller operator. Among Hub’s favorite people and places to go were Copper Kettle of Athens, and the Scotts Cafe. He enjoyed nature and had a kind and loving nature. Hub was happy to share his home to his nephew, Joe Hendrixson, and great-niece Harlee for the last couple of years. He cared for Joe like a son, and he helped Harlee finish high school and complete driver training. Hub is survived by his siblings Bonnie (David) Gorham, of Georgia; Linda (Tom) Compos of Bangor; and Judy Reynolds of Kalamazoo; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mildred and Dale Hendrixson and Donald Dalman and siblings Donald Dalman and Steven Dalman. Hub has been cremated and returned home to the land he loved. Visit his page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
Nancy Jean Decker passed away peacefully January 13, 2025, in Portage. She was born February 23, 1936, at home in Kalamazoo, the daughter of Ralph and Anna (Mulhaupt) Brown, Sr. Nancy graduated from Vicksburg High School in 1954 and married Otto Decker on April 16, 1955. She volunteered for South County Ambulance for over 30 years and provided accounting for her husband Otto’s business, Decker Auto Service. She also worked in the office of the Secretary of State when it operated a branch in Vicksburg. She worked as a secretary for Vicksburg Community Schools for many years and briefly for Portage Public Schools. She was a member of St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church for over 60 years and enjoyed sewing, knitting, quilting and crocheting. Nancy is survived by her children, Anna (Scott) Cowherd, Tony (Monica Johnson) Decker, Mike (Kathy) Decker, Melanie (Andy) Boyd, Joe (Karen) Decker, and Phil (Emily) Decker; 16 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren, with two on the way. She was preceded in death by her husband, Otto; son Paul Christopher Decker; parents; sister Helen Brown Horn; brothers Ralph Brown Jr. and John Brown; in-laws Otto Decker Sr., Frank and Marie Weitenauer; sisters-in-law Joan Wales-Dixon and Delores Elkins. Visit her page at amshfuneralhomes.com. Donations may go to St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church.
“Sonny” Charles Wesley Dull, 80, Schoolcraft, lost his battle with cancer January 13, 2025. He was born July 28, 1944 to Claborn and Irene (Bowdish) Dull in Kalamazoo. After leaving school in the 10th grade, Sonny began his career as an automotive mechanic before being drafted into the Army during the Vietnam War. Upon his return, he started his own business and built a name for himself. He married Barbara Griffin in June, 1967. Together they owned and operated Shaver Road Auto Service for over 20 years and had breakfast each morning at Derks. They sold the business to pursue their love of quarter horse racing and moved to Oklahoma. Sonny took much enjoyment in his family and friendships. Sonny was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Violet Dull, Clarence Dull, Carol Gatto, Marge Fletcher, “Bud” Claborn Dull, Sharon Kier, and “Butch” Raymond Dull. He is survived by his wife, Barbara; son Robert Dull; stepdaughter Deborah Tomlinson; grandsons Benjamin Dull, Jason Tomlinson, Bill Tomlinson and their children; sisters Cleta Meyle, Mary Schmitt, Connie Morton, Bonnie Crabtree and their families. Donations may go to Oklahoma Large Animal First Responders. Please email olafrteam@gmail.com for a PayPal link or mail your donation to: OLAFR, P.O. Box 20061, Oklahoma City, OK 73156. Visit his page at amshfuneralhomes.com.
Roger Earl Ferguson passed away peacefully at home January 15, 2025. He was born February 2, 1944 to Evelyn and Earl Ferguson in Pontiac, Michigan. He grew up in Waterford and graduated from Waterford Township High School where he played the trumpet and was on the football team. He attended WMU and worked as a draftsman/engineer, realtor, and entrepreneur. He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Heide Ferguson; his children, Kim (Cliff) Dabrowski and Brad (Chris) Ferguson; and their children Noah and Grace Dabrowski, Rachel (Anthony) Mersino and Emma Ferguson. He’s also survived by his brother John (Peggy) Ferguson and their children, Eric Ferguson and Amy (Matt) Martin. He was a stepfather to Heide’s children, Gary (Theresa) Hamlin, Mark Hamlin (Dave Watson) and Tracie (Dr. Todd) White and Opa to their children, Sarah Hamlin, Matthew (Jenna) Hamlin, Lindsey (Barrett) Wilkes, Holly (Dustin) Canon, Jesse (Alex) Martin and Taylor and Tanner White. Roger and Heide moved to Vicksburg in 2006 where he volunteered for the Department of Health and Human Services and helped create the Tree of Life School. He enjoyed golf, tennis, racquetball, water skiing, and snow skiing. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 1 at ChapNaz Church with a luncheon to follow. Visit his page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
Barbara A. Fink, 91, Vicksburg, passed away January 27, 2025. She was born October 17, 1933, in Toledo, Ohio. She was a devoted homemaker who spent her days nurturing her family on the family farm. She married Leroy on October 8, 1955, and together they raised five children. Barbara’s pride as a mother and grandmother radiated from her, as she always held her family close to her heart. She volunteered at the Vicksburg hospital and her son John’s business, the Fink Butcher Shop and Deli. She was a 4H leader and enjoyed her garden and crocheting. Barbara is survived by children Stormy (Dan) Flynn, of Cincinnati, Ohio, John (Cheryl) Fink, of Vicksburg, Charles “Buck” Fink, of Vicksburg and Wendy Fink, of Vicksburg; 11 grandchildren and 37 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Joe Adkins, of Riga, Michigan, sisters Darlene Gawronski, of Toledo, and Judy Sieler, of Dundee; sister-in-law Eileen Mitchell of Adrian; and other relatives and friends whose lives she touched with her kindness and warmth. She was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Leroy Fink; son Leroy “George” Fink; grandson Josh Fink; and her sister and brothers-in-law: Doris Fischer, Wilbert Fink, Marvin Fink and Robert Gawronski. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com. Donations may go to ChapNaz Church and Generous Hands.
Kitti Jo Goldberg, 64, Vicksburg, passed away on January 3, 2025. Kitti was born November 2, 1960, in Battle Creek, the daughter of Coy and Darlene (Werner) Davison. She graduated in 1978 from Portage Central High School and worked for the Kalamazoo Gazette for 30 years. On September 18, 1982, Kitti married Paul W. Goldberg. Kitti has been described as “one of a kind” with an infectious sense of humor. Kitti prided herself in being a great friend. Her Gazette colleagues became family to her. Even after she no longer worked at the Gazette she looked forward to when the crew continued to meet to spend time together. Kitti was a loving wife, mother, sister and grandmother. One of her favorite activities throughout her life was camping at Lakes of the North where summers were spent fishing, swimming, and enjoying bonfires. Kitti was a lifelong Lions fan. When Paul went deer hunting, Kitti and her friends would go “Lion Hunting” and camp out at the hotels the Lions players stayed at to meet them and obtain autographs. Kitti is survived by her husband of 42 years, Paul; daughter Lindsay (David) Brelinski of Dorr; son Kyle (Hannah) Goldberg of Vicksburg; grandchildren Brooks, Evelyn, Hudson, Reed, and Madison. She is also survived by her sister, Kathy VanDyke of Three Rivers; brother, Kip (Stacy) Davison of Mattawan; and many nieces and nephews. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
Donald Elmer Hetrick, Sr., 85, entered eternal peace December 31, 2024. He was born Aug. 13, 1939, in McMillan, Michigan, the 12th of 16 children born to Denzil and Margaret (Davis) Hetrick. His ancestors fought in the Revolutionary War after immigrating from Germany in the 1730s. His great-grandfather moved to Vicksburg in the 1870s. Don was a truck driver and 1957 Comstock High School grad. He was preceded in death by a son, Andrew, on November 12, 2024; his parents; brothers Robert and Richard; sisters Viola Richards Gauna, Connie Wilson, Maurine Steele, Ina Lehto, Ann Lehto, Ellen Peterson and Linda Velarde; and three infant brothers. He is survived by his children, Don (Pat) Hetrick Jr., Dana (the late Danny) Castle, William (Cindy) Hetrick; Michael (Lisa) Hetrick; Rhonda (Dustan) Burke, and Donielle (Nathaniel) Easlick; grandchildren Angela Peck, Elizabeth Cheesebro, Jessica Eyster, Amelia Yarnall, Ben Hetrick, Amanda Jo Chavez, Samantha Brendemuehl, Jake Ross, Joe Hetrick, Margaret Roberts, Emmaline Harvey, Eric Hetrick, Christopher Hetrick, Tim Hetrick, Delaney Burke, Maria Brandt, Luke Hetrick and Noah Easlick as well as 25 great-grandchildren, with two more on the way; former wives Rosalie Hetrick and Patrica Hjertos. Brothers Ernest and Matthew, and a sister, Celia (Peter) Liddell, also survive as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Karen Ann Kannegieter, 84, rural Centreville, passed away at her home January 6, 2025. She was born in Kalamazoo on January 14, 1940, the daughter of Gerard “Jack” Linders and Mary (Lewis) Linders. Karen was a 1958 graduate of Kalamazoo Central High School and attended Tracey Beauty Academy. She worked at several beauty salons including Cornetts, the Hair Center, and Hair Cutters. Karen married William Lee “Bill” Kannegieter on September 4, 1959. For the past 30 years they have lived along the St. Joseph River in Nottawa Township. Karen was very family-oriented and loved games, quilting, sewing, ceramics, bowling, the Detroit Tigers, and being out in the sun. The proud owner of a classic Ford Mustang, she liked attending car shows. Karen is survived by her husband of 65 years, Bill; son Dan (Shali) Kannegieter and daughter Shellie (Dick) Snyder; grandchildren Dan (Lauren) Kannegieter, Megan (Shayne) Merriman, Jessica Walker, Chad (Katie) Snyder, and Kylie (Jacob) Rowe; great-grandchildren Noah, Aleigha, Braelyn, Nash, Indy (on the way), Dexter, Willow, Margot, Wrenlie, and Truett; and brothers Howard Linders and Richard (Nancy) Linders. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers Jack and Don and sisters Marilyn, Judy, and Mary Beth. Donations may go to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Visit her page at eickhofffuneralhome.com.
Paul Cassel Kline, 97, Mendon Township, died peacefully among family January 1, 2025. He was born in Sturgis April 20, 1927 to Lester and Dorothy (Hale) Kline. He attended the one-room, red brick schoolhouse at Canada Corners in west Mendon, graduated from Mendon High School, and joined the Army. He graduated from MSU with a degree in agricultural engineering. He became a licensed electrician and operator for drinking water and wastewater treatment systems. Paul married Joyce Rose (Taylor) Kline on February 5, 1954. He practiced advanced farming techniques at Maple Shade Farms, allowing for the development of Klines Resort. He was a member of the MSU Glee Club and the West Mendon Church choir. He instilled the virtue of hard work in his eight children. He enjoyed music, being outside, and his family. Paul is survived by his wife of 71 years, Joyce: daughters Carol (Larry) Higgins and Kathy (Doug) Brueck, daughter-in-law Sandy (Joe) Bingaman, and sons Phil (Tama), Keith (Virginia), Bob (Linda), Wayne (MaryAnn) and Kevin. He and Joyce enjoy 19 grandchildren, and 16 great grandchildren. Paul was preceded in death by his siblings and son Ric Kline. A memorial is planned at Klines Resort the afternoon of May 3, 2025. Donations may go to West Mendon Community Church, Southwest Michigan Land Conservancy, or just plant a tree.
Sue A. Richardson, 84, left this world December 30, 2024 after a brief battle with illness. Sue was born in Vicksburg October 26, 1940 to Donald and Gladys Smith, and married Willis (Bill) Richardson in June, 1959. Together, Bill and Sue cultivated a beautiful family and raised their two children, Michael and Michelle. Sue was a passionate supporter at every Little League game, a guiding hand in Girl Scouts, and an enthusiastic participant in all of her children’s hobbies. Later, she supported her grandchildren as well, embracing every horse, goat or dog show. Time spent with family, whether work or play, was so valuable to Sue. She worked at the Kalamazoo State Hospital where she ran the laundry department. Sue loved her dogs and horses, who filled her life with joy and companionship. She found great happiness in nature, camping trips and travel adventures with friends. After retiring, she and Bill set sail on numerous cruises with her sister Pat and brother-in-law Arthur. She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Bill, and their daughter, Michelle. She is survived by her son, Michael (Laura); son-in-law Brad; grandchildren Sara (Kevin), Andrew (Emily), Heather (Jordan), and Lily (John); and great-granddaughters Brynnley, Harper, Cadence, and Raelynn. She also leaves behind step-great grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
Robert D. Richey, 76, Vicksburg, passed away peacefully January 25, 2025. Born March 13, 1948, in Vicksburg, Bob completed his education at Vicksburg Community Schools and proudly served in the Vietnam War from 1968 until 1971, reaching the rank of sergeant. He worked at Simpson Paper before working at Pfizer, from which he retired. He volunteered with the South Kalamazoo County Fire Authority, holding the position of assistant chief for a period of time. He enjoyed watching the Weather Channel, NASCAR and WWF wrestling. He liked playing softball, bowling, fishing, and engaging in friendly competition while playing cornhole. Bob was preceded in death by his wife Earlene “Lee” Richey; son Robert Richey, Jr; stepdaughter Bonnie Miller; grandsons Dustin Robert Sloan and Duane Haring III; parents Russell Richey and Marilyn Baney; and brothers Daniel, Terry, and Preston. He is survived by his daughter, Johnnie (Dustin) Sloan, of Montana; stepson Duane Haring of Vicksburg; grandchildren Shawnyll, Tonya, Megan, Kaitlyn, Haven and Ryan; and many great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Diana Brown of Colorado and special friends Donnie and Linda Yant, of Vicksburg. Services have been held. While at http://www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Bob’s guestbook and share your favorite memory with his family. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the South Kalamazoo County Fire Authority.
Clifford Michael Smith, 56, Three Rivers, passed away January 18, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born August 28, 1968, in Ionia, the son of Floyd M. and Dulcye M. (Piotrowski) Smith. He graduated from Whitehall High School with the class of 1986. Clifford served his country in the United States Marine Corps and worked at American Axle & Manufacturing. On March 24, 2017, Clifford married Maribel Tindoc Dionglay. Surviving are his wife; children Michael Dean, Sarah Marie, Jacob Russell, Kameron John Charles; sisters Melodye Razmus (Chris), Valary Detzler (Chuck), Becky Houdek (Ed); brothers Randy, Floyd Jr. (Casey); and many nieces and nephews as well as grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Dulcye. In accordance with family wishes, cremation will be conducted; a celebration of life will be held Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the Three Rivers Union Hall. Visit his page at hohnerfh.com.
Joan Alice Southworth, 92, Vicksburg, passed away December 12, 2024, from complications resulting from a fall in August. Joan was born December 2, 1932, in Vicksburg, the daughter of John Colton Rapp and Bernice (Miller) Rapp. She lived her entire life in Vicksburg. She was kind, compassionate, and extremely opinionated. She was artistic and once worked as a layout editor for local newspapers. She dedicated her life to saving animals. She loved getting together with friends; she was blessed to have many. She also enjoyed her kayak and time on the river. She was preceded in death by her husband, John. They spent many hours working their land and riding his Harley. Joan is survived by her sister, Lois (James) Meulman, and stepson Bruce (Paige) Southworth. She is also survived by close friends Walt and Kathy Leaders, who attended to Joan daily; special friend Duane who checked in with her often; Jeff and Pam who included her for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner every year; Sandy and Lynn, who traveled many miles on horseback with her; her rescue friends Barbara and Lauri; her longtime friend Marsha in Tennessee with many phone visits; Cindy who checked in often; Norm and Jeanie and Jim and Linda, her Friday night dinner at the Hideaway friends; and all her caring neighbors. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
Marjorie Anne Stephenson, 96, Scotts, passed away at her home January 6, 2025, surrounded by her family and friends. Marjorie was born in Hastings June 22, 1928, to Lawrence and Aleen Ritzman. She married Roger G. Stephenson June 24, 1950, in Hastings. Roger preceded her in death July 9, 2000. Marjorie graduated from Western Michigan University with a master’s degree in education. She was a fourth-grade teacher at Tobey Elementary for 21 years and a member of the Scotts United Methodist Church where she was an active Sunday School teacher. She was an avid quilter at church and at home. Her sisters, Doreen (Don) Ross and Phyllis (Dean) Moltmaker also preceded her in death. She is survived by her son, Roger M (Debbie) Stephenson, daughter Kathleen (Rodney) Rhoades, grandsons Michael (Laura) Stephenson, Aaron (Katie) Stephenson, Clay Rhoades, great grandchildren Megan (Jacob) Malenfant, Logan Stephenson and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Cremation has taken place. There will be visitation Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 12:30-2 p.m. with a memorial service to follow at Scotts United Methodist Church located at 8458 Wallene St., Scotts. Following services, there will be a luncheon at Country Christian Evangelical Free Church located at 9286 36th St, Scotts. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com. Donations may go to Centrica Care Navigators.
Jack Walton, 84, Vicksburg, died peacefully in his sleep from a lingering illness January 5, 2025. He was born June 7, 1940, in East Jordan, Michigan, the son of the late Gerald Ray and Ella Mae (Goodwill) Walton. Jack attended Schoolcraft High School and worked for many years prior to retirement as a truck driver for Jet Transit. Jack served in the United States Army from 1960 to 1963. He spent 13 months in South Korea during which he was deployed at the DMZ, camped in tents in the cold Korean winter, the first line of defense to deter an attack by North Korea. Throughout his life, Jack was a proud military veteran, a patriot who loved his country. He was an amazing storyteller, funny and droll, who would leave his friends and family in stitches after listening to one of his many “adventures.” He was a hard worker, a devoted family man, loving father and a loyal friend. Jack is survived by the love of his life, Vicki, his wife of 64 years; daughters Joni Walton and Janet (Jim) Logan; a sister, Jean Hutchins; grandchildren Jade DeHollander (Matt), Pablo Pena; and many great grandchildren. Jack was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Jerry Walton and sisters Ruth Shelton and Rita Erdos. Donations may go to Centrica Care Navigators. Visit his page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
Wayne York, 90, formerly of Schoolcraft, passed away January 13, 2025. He was born in Chicago December 13, 1934 to Robert and Maxine York. Wayne graduated from Vicksburg High School in 1954 and enlisted in the Marines earning Expert Rifleman, Expert Pistol, National Defense, and Marine Corps Good Conduct distinctions. He married Joan Kiel October 25, 1958. He was a Boy Scout troop leader, a member of the American Legion Post 475, and a volunteer firefighter. Wayne worked as a truck driver and enjoyed gardening and fishing. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 56 years, Joan York; and siblings Kenneth York, Sharon Holmquist, Carol Collins, and Gloria Armstrong. Surviving are his children Scott (Shelley) York, Vicki York, and Kelli (Bill Fouch) Mein; grandchildren Justin (Courtney) York and Courtney “Sis” York, Jared (Kaley Sytsma) Mein, and Kaiti (Jake Lang) Mein; great-grandchildren Isla York, Bryson Lang, and another, Sawyer Grace Lang, on the way; and many nieces and nephews. Donations may go to Centrica Care Navigators. A memorial will be held Saturday, March 8, 2025, at First Presbyterian Church of Schoolcraft. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by a service at 11 a.m. and interment at Schoolcraft Township Cemetery. Visit his page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
