Obituaries

August, 2025 | Obituaries

Terry Ray Alexander

Terry Ray Alexander, 68, Mendon, passed away July 1, 2025, after battling a long illness. He was born March 2, 1957, the son of Seborn and Mary (Ledford) Alexander. Terry attended Mendon High School with the class of 1974. In 1975, Terry married Cindy Dunithan, and they later divorced. In 1987, Terry married Kelly Miller, and they later divorced. For nearly 30 years, Terry worked for the Lear Corporation/IAC in Mendon until his retirement in 2020. Terry enjoyed fishing, golfing, and old country music. He was an avid sports fan, especially the Dallas Cowboys. Terry played horseshoes, loved his family and spoiled his grandchildren. He also had a soft spot for his loving dog, Sadie. Terry is survived by his children, Terry Jr. (Jennel Schultz) Alexander, Michielle (Tony) Mercer, Wendy Alexander, and Jessica “J.J.” (Zac) Rooney; grandchildren Chase Alexander, Drew Alexander, Paige Sweet, Anthony Mercer, Jr., Madeline Gilbert, Justin Matthews, MaKenzie Rooney, Zachary Rooney, and Huxlee Rooney; one great-grandchild; siblings Rock (Linda) Alexander, Ben (Lori) Alexander, sister in-law Nancy Alexander, Mike Alexander, Foy (Mark) Shade, Shirley Woods, and Linda Vorick; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family. He was preceded in passing by his parents, brother Dick Alexander, sister Claudette Thompson, brother Seborn Alexander, Jr., brother in-law Bill Woods, sister in-law Kathy Alexander, and his son, Cory Alexander. Visit his page at eickhofffuneralhome.com.

Mark Anderson

Mark Anderson, 70, passed away peacefully at his home June 5, 2025. Born February 22, 1955, in Kalamazoo, Mark was a proud graduate of Loy Norrix High School and a lifelong resident of Kalamazoo. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne and Dana Anderson of Kalamazoo. Mark is survived by his brother, David (Teresa) Anderson of Schoolcraft, and beloved nieces and nephews Heather (Tania), Kevin, Thomas (Nadia), and Jessica (Jessop), along with their families. Mark grew up swimming and was the anchor of a state-ranked Loy Norrix team. He split his time between Michigan summers and Florida winters. One of his greatest joys was taking friends and family tubing—his mission always being to send them flying. A legendary bartender, he lit up Kalamazoo’s nightlife for decades, from Bourbon Street to Wayside and beyond. His energy, humor, and unforgettable presence left a lasting impression. To the friends he leaves behind: He loved you fiercely. You were his chosen family, his constant through life’s ups and downs. Thank you for the memories, laughter, and love. A celebration of Mark’s life will be held in August. Visit his page at amsfuneralhomes.com.

Eva Blink

Eva Blink passed away July 27, 2025, the day before her 98th birthday. Born Eva Mae Palmer on July 28, 1927, in Watervliet, Michigan, she was adopted in 1931 by Meade and Ethel Pincombe and became their daughter, Eva Mae Pincombe. As a young woman, she married Kenneth Meyers and had three children, Judy Brisbane, Connie Glass, and Tom Meyers. After the loss of her husband, she had a second chance and a larger family when she married Dick Blink in 1969, which blessed her with additional children Marilyn Carroll, Peggy Makowski and Steve Blink. In the 1950’s she helped create the first chapter of Cystic Fibrosis Association in Michigan. She worked as secretary for Bud Mein, the first mayor of Portage, and in 1981 she opened a toy store, “Once Upon a Time.” She was loved and known by her grandchildren as “Gramma Teenie Weenie.” She was preceded in death by husband Kenneth Meyers, husband Richard “Dick” Blink, son Tommy Meyers, daughter-in-law Nolene Meyers, son-in-law Rev. Paul Brisbane, granddaughter Jessica Makowski, stepson Steve Blink, and grandson Shane Ritter. She is survived by children Judy Brisbane, Connie (Tom) Glass; stepchildren Peggy (Steve) Makowski and Marilyn Carroll; sibling Jean Young; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. A celebration of Eva’s life will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Eagles, 11611 Shaver Road, Schoolcraft. She will be cremated and reunited with her husband Dick Blink in Ft. Custer National Cemetery at a later date. Visit her page at hohnerfh.com.

Julia Alice "Judy" Chamberlain

Julia Alice “Judy” Chamberlain, 101, Schoolcraft, passed away July 2, 2025. She was born June 22, 1924 in Brooklyn, New York, the daughter of James Henry and Julia Catherine (Keegan) Bayne. She graduated from Stratford High School in Stratford, Connecticut, in 1942. On November 24, 1945, she married Willis H. Chamberlain, in Teaneck, New Jersey. Together, they shared 62 wonderful years of marriage before Willis’ passing in 2008. She was a devoted mother to Jim Chamberlain of Illinois, Larry (Jeanne) Chamberlain of Schoolcraft, Jerry Chamberlain of Kalamazoo, Joyce (Ed) Parsons of Schoolcraft, Steve Chamberlain of Texas, Alice (Scott) Chidester of Zeeland, Mary (Otto) Reiber of Washington state, Diane (Tim) Washburn of Dorr, and the late Nancy Schmidt. She was a proud grandmother to 13 grandchildren and a cherished great-grandmother to 19 great-grandchildren. Judy is also survived by her sister, Doris Bayne of Florida, sister-in-law Esther Bickle of Sterling Heights, and son-in-law Terry Schmidt of Tennessee. She was preceded in death by her husband Willis, her daughter Nancy, her granddaughter Katie, her parents Jim and Julia Bayne, infant sister Eileen Bayne, brother Jim Bayne, and sister Anne Jones. Judy served as Schoolcraft township clerk from 1970–1996). She was a member of St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church. She gave generously to the American Legion Auxiliary Post 475, the Schoolcraft Ladies Library, the Vicksburg Women’s Forum, and South County Community Services. Donations may go to Centrica Care Navigators (formerly Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan), St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, Schoolcraft Ladies Library, or Vineyard Assisted Living. Services have been held. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com.

Dennis J. Conklin, 62, Vicksburg, passed away unexpectedly July 29, 2025. He was born in Kalamazoo, the son of Robert and Linda (Simpson) Conklin. Dennis attended Vicksburg High School and was part of the 1982 graduating class. Throughout his life, Dennis worked at numerous places, ranging from grocery stores, laundromats, insurance companies, mortgage companies, Dillon’s Music, Great Lakes Chemical, and automotive dealerships. He was a people person and enjoyed helping others. Dennis and music went hand in hand; writing his own songs, being able to play any instrument, and collecting classic vinyl records. He was often seen singing and playing with the Frylings and Endless Summer. For some time, he would often DJ at weddings, events, and parties; bringing the joy of music to anyone in earshot. Parallel to his love of music was his love for motorcycles. Triumph and BMW bikes were his go-to while he enjoyed the open road. Dennis is survived by his parents Linda (Jim) Reed and Robert Conklin; children Casey (Nick) Grant and TJ Friend; siblings Suzanne Conklin, Sherry Neiboer, Robin (Paul) Bashaw, David (Candy) Reed, and Jason (Mary) Potts; uncle Melvin (Sukie) Simpson; special cousin Vickie Smittendorf; close friend Todd Brower; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended families, and many dear friends. In keeping with family wishes, cremation is being conducted. Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 10 a.m. until noon, with services beginning at noon, all at West Mendon Community Church, with Pastor Troy Peterson officiating. Donations may go to the church. Visit his page at eickhofffuneralhome.com.

Mark Joseph Converse

Mark Joseph Converse, 63, passed away at Bronson Hospital July 20, 2025. He was born in Kalamazoo April 11, 1962, the son of the late Richard and Carol (Dolhay) Converse. Mark was larger than life, full of joy and kindness, a friend to all, who will be dearly missed. He graduated from Vicksburg High School with the class of 1980, and then enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He served our country with honor on the USS John Rodgers and was discharged in 1988. He returned to make southwest Michigan his home and began working for R.W. Mercer. Mark was a hard worker and great leader. When not working, he enjoyed playing golf, watching the Lions on Sunday afternoons, spending summer days at his home on Crooked Lake and was a huge Pink Floyd fan. Above all, Mark loved his family and his friends. He would do anything to help others, and his heart and home were always open to those in need. On July 30, 2022, Mark was reunited in marriage to the love of his life, Christine (Kennedy) Converse, who survives. He is also survived by his children, Justin (Sheryl) Converse and Phillip Converse; grandchildren Abigail, Gabriel, Josiah, and Jasmine; siblings Kathy (Mike) Decker, Becky (Gary) Hallam, Matt Converse; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. He was also preceded in passing by a brother, John Converse. Donations may go to Wounded Warriors. Visit his page at joldersma-klein.com.

Sandra Lee (Marshall) Griffin

Sandra Lee (Marshall) Griffin was born February 17, 1950, in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. She passed away June 26, 2025. She was a devoted wife to Leonard Griffin for 56 years, a loving mother to Christy, Patricia, Jaime, and Sarah as well as grandmother to Toviel. Sandra loved being a sister, aunt, daughter and long-term congregant at Edwards Corners Bible Church. She is now at peace with the Lord after a short period of ill health. Donations may go to Edwards Corners Bible Church. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com.

James Walton Hagelgans

James Walton Hagelgans, 86, Vicksburg, passed away June 26, 2025, at Optalis Health and Rehab in Three Rivers. He was born July 22, 1938, in Three Rivers, the son of Walton and Delilah (Hacker) Hagelgans, and attended Centreville and Colon schools, obtaining his GED while in the United States Army. During his service, Jim received Good Conduct, Sharpshooter, and Marksman awards. He worked for 36 years at Simpson Paper and worked for Hagelgans Heating and Cooling, which was owned by his brother Ken and eventually by his nephew, Michael, for more than a decade after he retired from Simpson Paper. Jim married Janet Owen on June 24, 1961. He was a member of Center Park United Methodist Church and served as a trustee for many years. He mowed the lawn at the church and the parsonage. He enjoyed woodworking and made toy trucks and doll beds for his grandkids, among many other wood projects. He loved spending time with his grandchildren. Remaining to cherish his memory are his wife, Janet; daughters Judy (Richard) Fruehauf and Jami (Jeff) Fruehauf; grandchildren Nicole (the late Doug Lindsey), Aaron (Abagail), Meagan (Dillon), and Hannah; great-grandchildren Kylee, Bryanna, Radley, Ziggy, and Kirsten; sister-in-law Sarah; nephew Michael; and niece Gayle. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Kenneth and Frank; and a sister, Darlene. Donations may go to the Alzheimer’s Association or Center Park Church.

Jack L. Hayward

Jack L. Hayward, 89, passed away July 12, 2025. Born January 29, 1936 in Kalamazoo, Jack was raised on a farm just south of Scotts. After high school, Jack answered the call to serve his country, attending boot camp at the Chicago Naval Academy before serving honorably in the United States Navy. He held the rank of ENF2 aboard the USS Borie (DD-704), a destroyer that took him on a global journey. Upon returning home, Jack began a long and successful career as a journeyman machinist and millwright. He worked at several companies throughout the region, including Rex Hawthorne Paper, Ronnigans, Clark Equipment, Maro, ARCO, and Schmidt Grinding. He married Connie West October 11, 1958; they built a rich life together for 55 years until Connie’s passing in 2014. Together, they raised five children: Dan (Benita) Hayward of Scotts, Cheryl (Dale) Welch of Indiana, Tim (Shilo) Hayward of Vicksburg, Rebecca Hayward of Kalamazoo, and John (Jenni) Hayward of Vicksburg. Jack was the proud grandfather of 18 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren and siblings Janet Streeter, Gary (Julie) Hayward and Susan Hawley. He enjoyed bow hunting, squirrel and rabbit hunting, and fishing. Jack was also a motorcycle enthusiast, and his favorite car was a 1958 Chevy, painted candy apple red. Jack was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Connie; his parents; brothers-in-law Marshall “Bud” Streeter and Norman Hawley; sister-in-law Cora Jean Hayward; granddaughters Hope and Charity Glidden; and great-granddaughter Ashlynn Stairs. Donations may go to Fulton Christian Church. Visit his page at amsfuneralhomes.com.

Logan Alvin Johns

Keith Lewis Hovious, 61, a beloved husband, father and son, went to be with his heavenly father while riding his motorcycle on July 2, 2025. Keith was a graduate of Vicksburg High school. He met the love of his life and future wife at Davenport College in 1982, and they were married in 1984. Keith served in the United States Army from 1988 until 1990. Jackie and Keith’s son, Korey, was born in Heidelberg, Germany, where Keith was stationed in 1990. Keith held an associate’s degree from Davenport College and a law enforcement degree from KVCC. He loved spending time with his family, whether it was flying radio-controlled planes with his great nieces, attending family functions or going to Comic Cons with his wife and son. Keith also had a passion for RC boats and belonged to a RC boat club. Keith is survived by his wife, Jackie; son Korey (Melissa) Hovious; mother Judy Hovious; sister Michele (Tom) McSpadden; and many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father: Maurice Hovious. Visit his page at amsfuneralhomes.com. Donations may go to the D.A.V or American Heart Association.

Logan Alvin Johns

Logan Alvin Johns, born in Kalamazoo May 18, 2007, the son of Brandon and Melinda (Waynick) Johns, spent the first part of his life in a neonatal intensive care unit. Logan grew up in a very loving home with his mom, dad, big sister Megan, and his little brother, Alex. When Logan was young, he loved to crawl and scoot around, and he was very quick and loved getting himself into shenanigans. When Logan got older, he spent a lot of time in his wheelchair. He loved watching people, loud noises, being tickled, high fives, and watching Puppy Dog Pals. His favorite game was “this little piggy.” Logan attended school for many years, got to play on a baseball team, and enjoyed bowling. Logan experienced many things in his life: a cruise, Mackinac Island, camping, playing in the water and going on boat rides. He loved spending time with grandparents James and Colette (DeMott) Johns and Ronald and Sharon (Briggs) Waynick. Even though Logan had obstacles, he still got to enjoy and live an amazing, meaningful life. Melinda and Brandon did everything they could to make Logan happy and give him the best childhood they could. They made it so he got opportunities to do things like every other child. Logan was a loving, funny, young man who could always bring a smile to someone’s face. On the morning of April 30, 2025, an angel came and took Logan from us. He will always live in our hearts forever.

Paul B. Jones III

Paul B. Jones, III, 77, Scotts, passed away July 26, 2025. He was born in Kalamazoo December 12, 1947 and graduated from Loy Norrix High School in 1966, where he was class president and a standout in football and baseball. During those years, he met his high school sweetheart, Dawn Kathleen McCune, whom he married November 7, 1969. He proudly served as a staff sergeant in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and was a frequent speaker at Memorial Day and Veterans Day events. For over two decades, he made a significant impact as a custodian for Vicksburg Community Schools. He had a warm and caring nature, and family was at the heart of Paul’s life. He had many interests and loved being outdoors. He was known for his warm greetings and for calling both friends and strangers “brother” to help them feel connected and valued. He was preceded in death by his father and stepmother Paul and Verna Jones, Jr; siblings Charles and Arthur Baumgarte, Suellyn Cravens, Melinda Downs, and Mary Gerould; brother-in-law Dick Downs; and nephew Rick Downs and his mother, Bette Leiting. Paul is survived by his wife, Dawn; daughters Melissa (Michael) Macavage of Bloomfield Hills and Anelyce Forney of Whitehall; grandchildren Olivia, Stella, Paige, Haven and Jaxson; siblings Sally Benedict of Georgia, Cheryl Snow of Saginaw, Scott Jones of Kalamazoo, and Beth Jones of Kalamazoo; and numerous nieces and nephews. Services have been held. While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Paul’s guestbook and share your favorite memory with his family. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the DAV and Forgotten Souls Rescue & Rehab.

Marie Mildred Maki (Ruppel)

Marie Mildred Maki (Ruppel), 89, Boerne, Texas, passed away April 22, 2025. A devoted wife of 49 years, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, she always put family before herself. Born February 11, 1936, in Maywood, Illinois to Christian Ruppel and Hertha (Zupke) Ruppel, the family eventually moved to St. Joseph, Michigan where she met her future husband, August (Mac) Maki. Marie and Mac lived mostly in the Kalamazoo area while raising a family. Marie and Mac loved travelling and eventually retired in Kerrville, Texas until Mac’s death in 1996. After this she decided to move back to Kalamazoo to be close to her son’s family, eventually moving in with them for several years in Schoolcraft. Eventually, she grew tired of Michigan winters and returned to Texas. While living in Boerne, Texas, she met Nancy and Bob Bruce, who treated her like family. They, along with many other friends, kept her busy sewing, quilting, rug hooking, and a weekly Bible study group. A lifelong Christian, she was a member of Boerne Bible Church. Marie is survived by her daughter, Celeste (Don) Van Liere of Phoenix, Arizona, son Zachary (Lori) Maki of Schoolcraft, grandchildren Fawn (Nick) Neuling, Amy (Dan) Taylor, Christina (Kyle Theobald) Maki, and Trevor Maki; great grandchildren William and Nico Neuling, Ethan and Reid Taylor. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and sisters Marge (Frank) Mertes, and Marion (Chet) Straka. In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place, and a memorial is being planned at a later date.

Phillip "Tod" Mears

Phillip “Tod” Mears, 74, Vicksburg, passed away at his home on July 2, 2025 after battling a lengthy illness. He was born in Battle Creek February 20, 1951, the son of James and Betty (Blodgett) Mears. Tod attended Vicksburg High School and was part of the 1969 graduating class. For 50 years, Tod was involved in the plastics and automotive industry, working at multiple shops and plants in southwest Michigan. In 1993 he met Kimberly Clark-Batten, and they married March 20, 2015, in Mendon. Tod had the ability to build and fix anything he put his mind to. He had a need for speed, especially when it came to drag racing his 1970 Nova. When he decided the Nova wasn’t fast enough, Tod decided to take pilot lessons and enjoyed the skies. He enjoyed travelling, but above all, he loved his family. Tod is survived by his wife, Kimberly Mears; children Stephanie (Brent) Bergstrom, Sean (Jill) Mears, Sarah Batten, Krystal (Jesse) Cleveland, Mark (Katie) Batten, Jaclyn (Brian) Hawks, and foreign exchange student, George Ip; grandchildren Mackenzi, Noah, Abigail, Madison, Sawyer, Gabriel, Avery, Logan, Alexis, Keagan, Ava, Adley, Charlotte, Connor, Dean, Harper, and Skylar; mother in-law Janice Clark; siblings David (Janet) Mears, Becky Mears, and Heather Homan; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. He was preceded in passing by his parents and his brother, Gene Mears. Services have been held. Donations may be directed to the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, PO Box 931517, Cleveland, OH 44193-1655. Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at eickhofffuneralhome.com

Patti Jo Mitchell

Patti Jo Mitchell, 64, Battle Creek, formerly of Climax, passed away July 2, 2025. She was born January 5, 1961, in Battle Creek, the daughter of Gordon and Mildred (Snyder) Mitchell. She graduated from Climax-Scotts High School in 1979 and fondly remembered her days as a cheerleader. Those who knew her during this time would remember her infectious positivity. Patti devoted her professional life to the auto insurance industry. In addition to her professional endeavors, she treasured moments spent painting, drawing, and reading. Patti was a great cook and loved trying new recipes. And if she was watching the television, it was most likely something on the cooking channels. Her family describes her as happy, positive, and notably strong-willed, characteristics that endeared her to friends and loved ones alike. Patti enjoyed hot air balloons, and she generously volunteered for the Field of Flight in Battle Creek, Michigan. Patti was preceded in death by her parents, Gordon and Mildred Mitchell; brother Michael Mitchell; sister Judy Denny; and nephew Chad Mitchell. She is survived by siblings Sue Bailey of Vicksburg, Doug (Kathy) Mitchell of Fulton, Gary Mitchell of Climax, Nancy Edwards of Battle Creek, Randy Mitchell of Kalamazoo; and numerous nieces and nephews. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com.

Philip V. Oswalt

Philip V. Oswalt, 91, Fulton, died July 7, 2025. He was born in Vicksburg April 1, 1934, the son of Victor B. and Anna Bell (Fort) Oswalt. Philip was a 1952 graduate of Athens High School. On August 21, 1954, Philip married Marilyn “Pete” Piper. They shared 68 wonderful years until her death in 2022. Philip joined the U.S. Army in 1956 after which the couple settled in Fulton. Philip’s passion was farming. He loved animals, especially his pet rooster “Peep.” Philip also worked 13 years each at the paper mill in Vicksburg, Clark Equipment, and Kendall Industrial Supply, until his retirement in 1996. Philip was preceded in death by his parents and wife; daughter Debora L. Oswalt; and sisters Mary Ann Oswalt and Carol (Oswalt) Miller. Surviving are his son, James P. (Theresa) Oswalt; grandchildren Darron J. Oswalt, Daniel P. Dawson, Anna E. (Marvin) Wright, Audrey K. (Mark) Brooks and Andrew J. Oswalt; great-grandchildren Journi and Lexah Dawson and Fisher Mark Brooks; siblings Richard (Patricia) Oswalt and Susan (Marlon) Kinney; and several nieces and nephews. James “Ozzie” invites family and friends to celebrate his father, at his 42nd Annual Pig Roast on August 9, 2025. Visit his page at langelands.com.

Larry Porter, 84, Gobles, passed away at home July 14, 2025. The son of Chancey and Dorothy Porter, Larry was born March 16, 1941, in South Haven. Larry joined the Air Force in 1959 after graduation from Vicksburg High School. He completed his service as a mechanic on B-52 bombers at Mather Air Force Base in Sacramento. Larry met his wife, Sharon, in California and had two children, Jeffery and Timothy. Larry moved back to Michigan in 2015 after the death of his wife. Larry worked at Hanson Concrete Pipe Company until retirement. Larry will be fondly remembered.

Rich Radziwon

Rich Radziwon’s 2-1/2-year battle with cancer finally came to an end on June 26, 2025. Rich was born and raised on the south side of Chicago and moved to Michigan 46 years ago. Here, he and his wife, Joan, raised their two children, Ryan and Brittany.  Many knew him as Rich, Richard or R. Thaddeus, but he was most fondly known by his grandchildren – Braden, Dylan, Zander and Ryann– as “dzaj”, which is Polish for grandpa.  Rich is survived by his brother Frank (Denise). Anyone that knew Rich knew of his love for cooking, good bourbon, working on cars, golfing, music and spending many hours on Lake Michigan. Rich is also remembered for his wit, uncanny ability to recall lyrics to nearly every song and his natural ability to fix just about anything. He was a master of many talents. Rich is loved by many and is greatly missed … never to be forgotten.  Rest in peace! A celebration of life will be at a later date.

Marc Skippers

Marc Skippers passed away on July 26, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Norm and Betsey Skippers, sister Suzanne, and youngest brother Mark Craig. He is survived by his daughter, Kristen (Jason) Stanford of Vicksburg; son Neil Skippers of Vicksburg, grandchildren Max Stanford of Vicksburg, Kara Stanford of Scotts, Ryan Kinberger of Kentucky, and Jessica Stanford of Kentucky; and siblings Anne (Nickola) Baic, of Boyne City and Steven Skippers of Virginia. Born January 30, 1946, Marc was a resident of Vicksburg since age 6. Marc spent many enjoyable summers with his family at his grandparents’ cottage on the east side of Indian Lake, and was adept at swimming and waterskiing. Marc developed a lifelong interest in electronics. His attention soon turned to audio equipment, which led to building stereo amplifiers and receivers from the Heathkit company. After graduating from Vicksburg High School in 1964, Marc entered the field of professional television repair. He spent off-work hours on amateur radio airwaves. Due to failing eyesight, he joined the custodial staff at Vicksburg High School and retired in 2011 as head custodian. Visit his page at amsfuneralhomes.com. Donations may go to South County Community Services and Generous Hands.

Marcia Luise (Hayward) Watts

Marcia Luise (Hayward) Watts, 79, Portage, died at home June 27, 2025 after living with breast cancer for many years. Marcia was born August 30, 1945, in Kalamazoo, to Lawrence Vinson Hayward and Iva Grace (VandeGiessen) Hayward. She spent her childhood in Scotts and Vicksburg, graduating from Vicksburg High School in 1963 and completed a secretarial program at Parsons Business School in Kalamazoo. Marcia married Jeff Watts in Kalamazoo on December 20, 1966, and the young couple moved often. After the couple divorced in 1981, Marcia returned to Vicksburg, where she worked at the Ralph Hayward Insurance Agency. Marcia had a long career as an administrative assistant in education and finance, working for the Kalamazoo Public Schools, Kalamazoo Valley Intermediate School District, Kalamazoo Regional Education Service Agency and Oppenheimer & Co., retiring in 2011. She loved puzzles, reading, Jeopardy, walks, yoga classes, musicals, and theater productions. Marcia maintained a condo at South Haven’s North Beach for many years. She is survived by her son, Brad (Jody) Watts; grandson Benjamin Lawrence Watts; brother Leon Hayward; niece Kim Hayward and nephew Mark Hayward; and many cherished cousins and friends. Marcia was preceded in death by her mother, Iva Grace Hayward, father Lawrence Hayward and sister-in-law Tina Hayward. Donations may go to Bronson Health Foundation’s Cancer Treatment Endowment. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com.

Ronald R. Weinberg

Ronald R. Weinberg, 78, Mendon, passed away at his home July 19, 2025 after a lengthy illness. He was born , in Vicksburg April 21, 1947, the son of Rex and Frances (Marker) Weinberg. Ron graduated from Vicksburg High School in 1965. On September 17, 1966, he married Pat Miller at Delta Mills United Methodist Church in Lansing. For most of his life, he worked on the family farm. After his retirement from farming, he expedited for the Lear Corporation and was grounds manager at Klines Resort. In his younger years, Ron was a member of the Mendon Township Board of Review and a volunteer fireman. Ron is survived by Pat, his wife of 58 years; children Troy (Sandra) Weinberg and Sheli (Mark) Daniels; grandchildren Madison (Zac) Halvin, Corbin Weinberg, Drew (Aimee) Cupp, Haili (Jared) McBride, Lacey (Jason) Cupp, and Parker (Grace) Cupp; great-grandchildren Weston, Lennon, Briella, Hardy, Kyler, Rory, Hazel, and Ridge; brother in-law Pat Jergens; and many nieces, nephews, extended families, and his favorite cat, Callie. He was preceded in passing by his parents, sister Carolyn Jergens and baby John. Donations may go to Moorepark Community Church Missions. Visit his page at eickhofffuneralhome.com.

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