On July 1, a familiar face returns to Schoolcraft Schools as the district’s new superintendent: Nate Ledlow.
Ledlow, a 1998 Schoolcraft graduate, presented an impressive resume to the school board. He graduated from WMU with a bachelor’s degree in secondary education in 2002, a master’s degree in educational leadership in 2009 and a PhD in educational leadership in 2022.
Ledlow has been in education for 21 years with the last 15 of those years in school administration. Prior to returning to Schoolcraft, he served as the middle school principal and high school athletic director for Eau Claire Public Schools (2009-2011). After Eau Claire, he was hired to be the high school principal for Watervliet Public Schools (2011-2015). Next, Ledlow left Watervliet to take an assistant principal’s job at Portage Northern High School. It was at Portage Northern where he worked for 9 years, first as the assistant principal (2015-2022) and then as high school principal (2022-2024). Ledlow’s areas of interests include working with at-risk students, equitable grading practices, social emotional learning, and school safety.
Ledlow is “humbled and honored” to be returning to his roots. “To have the opportunity to come back to my hometown, a place that means so much to me, and be the superintendent of schools is something dreams are made of. I am so grateful for this opportunity, and I cannot wait to get started. We are going to do great things!”
Jennifer Gottschalk, Schoolcraft Board of Education president, is confident in Ledlow and his ability to move Schoolcraft Schools forward. “His professional experiences and extensive education, combined with his thorough understanding of the rich history and traditions of our community as an SCS graduate, have prepared him to be our superintendent. Please welcome Dr. Nate Ledlow to the Schoolcraft Community Schools team.”
Schoolcraft’s 2024 Men’s 4X100m relay finished 3rd at the state finals June 1 at Kent City. It finished with a time of 43.3 seconds, breaking its previous school record of 43.9 set a few weeks before at the JT Long Invitational meet. The previous school record had stood for 29 years since 1995. The relay running order is Isaac Noora, Mekhi Burton, Jared Feller and Tyler Perez.
Left to right: Schoolcraft Township candidates Don Ulsh, Toni Elgersma-Rafferty, Eska Brown, and Joanne Wiley.
Schoolcraft Township voters will elect all members of the township board in November. There are primary races for two positions: Supervisor Don Ulsh faces Toni Elgersma-Rafferty for the Republican nomination in the Aug. 6 primary. Following the decision of longtime Clerk Virginia Mongreig not to seek election, Joanne Wiley and Deputy Clerk Eska Brown are competing for the GOP nomination. Treasurer Theresa Scott and Trustees Tamra Stafford and Jennifer Sportel are unopposed in the Republican primary and the Nov. 5 election. All are four-year terms. Compensation for the elected officials: Supervisor, $52,500; clerk and treasurer, $55,335; trustees, $125 per meeting.
Don Ulsh
I have roots in the Village of Schoolcraft. My grandparents lived in the village several years. My aunt and uncle graduated from Schoolcraft High School. My uncle was president of the village for several years. I have been fortunate to have served Schoolcraft Township in several capacities: Planning Commission, trustee, clerk and now supervisor. I became involved in the township in 1992. Those that know me know I am a man of my word and integrity is very important to me. I love meeting with people and solving any issues they may have. Prior to my fulltime work at the township, I was the mill manager at the Simpson paper mill. I have lived in this area most of my life and all of my children have graduated from Vicksburg High School. I sincerely hope that I will be re-elected so I can continue to serve the residents of Schoolcraft Township.
Toni Elgersma-Rafferty
I have lived in Schoolcraft Township for over 20 years. My husband James and I have two children. I have been an office manager for 8 years for two different businesses where I work closely with customers, employees and vendors. I currently serve as president of the Schoolcraft 4th of July Committee, helping organize the parade and fireworks celebration; deacon at the First Presbyterian Church of Schoolcraft; and a director of the Schoolcraft Friday Pack organization. I am an experienced organizer, problem solver, communicator and listener. I promise to use my skills to follow through on all responsibilities of the Schoolcraft township supervisor and help lead the way for the next generation. Since living in Schoolcraft, I have been actively involved with my community and adore all our history. As Schoolcraft township supervisor, I want to lead us to be a more cohesive community and be more responsive and educate our constituents on what is going on in the township. I will ensure information is given timely and accurately. I feel complete transparency is important and, if I am elected, I will work diligently to make sure Schoolcraft Township becomes more transparent.
Eska Brown
I have lived in Schoolcraft for 27 years. My husband, two children, and I are Schoolcraft High alumni. Schoolcraft Township has employed me for 15 years as office administrator. I have knowledge of the day-to-day workings of the office and have been the deputy clerk since 2015. I have helped conduct elections, maintain the voter registration data base, assist families with cemetery needs, and other duties. My experience will ensure a smooth transition for the Township. I believe in providing our residents with as much information as possible about township projects and the resources available in our area. I am a fair listener who will ensure your ideas are heard and considered. In office, I would like to educate new and first-time voters on the process of going to the polls and how to request an absentee ballot if needed. Having cemetery information available online for individuals who are studying family history is another goal of mine. I will use all of the resources available to me to help residents with questions they may have. Please consider electing me your next township clerk.
Joanne Wiley
I am running for Schoolcraft Township clerk. I will bring a fresh outlook to our township by taking the time to listen, follow up, and follow through on the concerns and needs of our citizens. I will work with our neighboring villages and townships as a voice for the citizens of Schoolcraft Township. My family has been in Schoolcraft Township for over 118 years. The country and township have been great for us. I would like to share what that means to me by showing my dedication and commitment to the citizens of Schoolcraft Township by treating them with integrity, respect, and professionalism as their township clerk. I have over 20 years of management experience working in conflict resolutions to find an agreeable middle ground for both parties involved. I also have over 15 years of accounting experience working with for-profits, non-profits, and municipality entities. What has made me successful in my management and accounting activities is my attention to details. I believe Schoolcraft Township is ready for a change. I will bring new ideas to help continue to make Schoolcraft Township the wonderful place my family calls home.
Terms of three members of the Schoolcraft Village Council, expiring at the end of the year, will be filled in the November election. This month, I have asked the current council president, Michael Rochholz, whose term is expiring along with those of Russell Barnes and Kirk Bergland, to provide some insight into what it takes to be a member of the Council. Mr. Rochholz has much experience serving on local public boards such as the Village Council and the local school board. What follows are the village president’s views on what it takes to be a successful member of the Village Council:
With local government elections this fall, there is an opportunity for our village to give serious consideration to who will represent them over the next term. The constituents have their say every four years for village trustees and every two years for village president, electing people to make decisions on their behalf. They bestow upon their council a mandate to do the hard work of setting policies designed to deliver collective services to the community with the limited resources provided.
Like never before, we need relevant, authentic, and forward-thinking leaders who understand the complexities of governing during times of uncertainty and change.
So, how do we attract and elect the best people for the job? What are some qualities and characteristics that are vital in a local leader? Relationship builder, a team player, approachable, critical thinker, being prepared, and a basic understanding of financial information.
As a council member, you will play a vital role in the governance of our village. Your job is to represent the interests and concerns of the constituents in a fiscally responsible manner. You will serve by making decisions that affect the community as a whole.
Some of your duties as a village council member include attending meetings, working with the Village Council as a whole, and making decisions on village policies, ordinances and budgets. You may work with other government officials, constituents, and local businesses to find solutions to issues facing the community or region, such as infrastructure improvements or public safety concerns.
To succeed as a village council member, you should be a good communicator, able to work well under pressure, and have a passion for public service. You should also be knowledgeable about your community’s needs and have a desire to improve the lives of those you represent, within the confines of resources available to the village.
You would be expected to:
Attend regular meetings to discuss village issues and make decisions
Represent the interests and concerns of the Village of Schoolcraft
Collaborate with village officials and staff to create policies, ordinances and implement programs
Council member’s role is at the vision, mission, strategic planning and evaluation level, while the Village Manager and staff perform all of the day-to-day activities.
Allocate village funds and resources according to community priorities and needs as appropriate
Monitor the village’s financial health and make sound fiscal decisions
Advocate for the village’s interests in regional, state, and national issues
Encourage civic engagement and participation in local government
Maintain ethical standards and transparency in all aspects of your role
Attend community events and communicate regularly with residents to understand their needs and perspectives.
Being a good leader is not just about one’s opinion or stance on an issue. It is about vital attributes, characteristics, and qualities that contribute to the short-term and long-term wellbeing of the community – now and into the future. There are currently three seats for Schoolcraft village trustees up for election and one seat for village president. If you believe that you can serve your community working with a team of committed individuals, then please consider a visit to the Schoolcraft Township Hall to get a petition and run for a seat. It can be humbling and rewarding to be a part of a group tasked with doing “good work” for their community.
If you are interested in running for an open council seat, the Council encourages you to speak with any current Council member to answer questions you may have about serving. To get your name on the November 5th ballot, you must first file the two following, completed documents with the Schoolcraft Township Clerk by 4:00 PM on July 23, 2024:
Affidavit of Identity and Receipt of Filing Instructions
Village Nominating Petition
These documents are available from the Schoolcraft Township Clerk’s Office. If you have any questions regarding these documents or other requirements to run, please call the Township Clerk at 269-649-1276.
The Schoolcraft Township board at its June meeting agreed to provide financial support to the Underground Railroad Museum, maintained by the Schoolcraft Historical Society, and to close the township office on the Juneteenth holiday, celebrated on June 19, to commemorate the ending of slavery in the United States.
Historical Society Vice-president Barry Visel told the Board about recent activities at the museum. He said that tour revenues have gone up as over 120 students and 80 adults have toured the museum. “We have initiated a survey at the end of the tours and we are getting good, positive results.”
He also reported that three fifth-grade classes from Schoolcraft had a fundraiser recently and donated $1,500 to the museum.
“The school kids appreciate the tours,” he said. “We are all excited about that.”
He also outlined the improvements that have been made at the museum, which was the home of Dr. Nathan Thomas and used as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Improvements include stabilizing the foundation and planned replacement of windows and siding.
After Visel’s presentation, the Board voted to donate $500 to the Historical Society.
Regarding Juneteeth, Supervisor Don Ulsh questioned whether the Township offices should be open on June 19, which is a federal holiday. He had checked with other townships and found that only two are open on that day. The Board voted to close on June 19 each year.
In other presentations to the Board, Dave Pawloski, vice chairperson of the Road Commission of Kalamazoo County, updated the Board on various road projects. Board members also questioned him about projects and asked for help with some issues.
Trustee Tamra Stafford asked about the status of the U Avenue project. At the February Board meeting, the Road Commission had reported that U Avenue had been rated as in poor condition and was scheduled to be pulverized, rehabilitated with a structural overlay, and have the shoulders widened at a cost of $1.05 million.
Pawloski said he would email Stafford a timeline of the project.
Board members also asked the Road Commission to address speeding on the various detours in the Township such as those on XY and Y Avenues. The detours are due to the road construction on US-131 in Schoolcraft.
Pawloski said he would bring that to the Commission’s attention and also cautioned drivers not to drive around the orange barrels.
In other business, the Board approved a budget amendment for the Sunset Lake Special Assessment District for 2024-2025 in the amount of $23,800.
It also approved a draft audit for 2023-2024.
Trustee Stafford reported from the Planning Commission that after one more round of corrections on the Master Plan, a public hearing will be held regarding the document. And after months of discussion, the Planning Commission has decided on the definition of a fence which will be presented at the Commission’s July meeting.
Treasurer Teresa Scott gave an update on the TextMyGov.com program which had been approved at the Board’s April 9 meeting.
The program recently went into effect and to date only 121 residents have opted out of the program, she said.
“People are automatically opted in and have the option of opting out,” she said. “I think people are testing the waters.”
Trustee Jennifer Sportel reported on the issues in Schoolcraft due to the road construction such as businesses losing customers. She noted that some people’s GPS systems don’t give the alternate routes.
“Every time I can I smile at the workers,” Sportel said. “I’m sure they’re getting all kinds of comments.”
Supervisor Ulsh brought up the issue of the Township not having any police patrols and having to rely on Schoolcraft or Vicksburg police departments.
“They don’t want to send their guys out here because they’re paying for it,” he said.
He noted that the Township has three options: hiring a full-time deputy, hiring a deputy for specific patrol hours, or sharing with another Township. Currently, the Michigan State Police cover accidents, he said.
The Board asked Ulsh to research the costs of the various options and report back at a later date.
Marjorie Lee (Hoyt) Baughman, Richard Dean Burgess, Jr., Roger Gordon “Chip” Cree, Jr., Robert John Dinzik, Susan Harper-Grieger, Milo “Mike” Lude, Dayla Delain (Nutting) Mackinder, Sara Jean Masse, William Charles McVeigh Jr., Mary Kathryn Neuens, Charline Lucile Lance Patnoude, Paul Sehy, Dennis “Denny” VanWeelden.
Marjorie Lee (Hoyt) Baughman, 88, Vicksburg, passed away on June 19, 2024. She was born in Richland on March 11, 1936, to the late Leo and Ida (Brown) Hoyt. She graduated from Climax High School in 1954, and on July 31 of that year married Karol Baughman. They resided on their family farm in Climax and were married for 67 years until Karol’s passing in 2022. Marjorie had several jobs in her lifetime, including Consumers Power Company, Pease Packing, and First National Bank in Climax. She was instrumental in keeping records of the family farm. Marjorie enjoyed gardening, painting, sewing, quilting, cooking, photography, and family genealogy. She was active at the Prairie Historical Society. Marjorie and Karol in their retirement years did a lot of touring in their motorhome and attending Model T tours with the Boiling T’s. They attended parades and car shows and wintered in Avon Park, Florida and summers at their cottage on the Croton River. In her final years she resided with Larry and Dawn at their residence in Vicksburg. Marjorie is survived by her son, Larry and Dawn Baughman; grandchildren Sally Franklin, Mary Rugh, Clayton Baughman, Klinton Baughman, Rachel Baughman, Jamie and Rusty Bennett, Erin Matlock, Travis and Faith Baughman; 12 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband and parents; brother, Charles; and son, Steven. Donations may go to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Visit her page at langelands.com.
Richard Dean Burgess, Jr., 64, Vicksburg, passed away at Bronson Hospital on June 2, 2024. Richard was born in Vicksburg and was the son of Richard and Claudia Burgess. Richard was preceded in death by his wife Terri, son Alexander Burgess, and his best friend, Sarge. Richard is survived by his children, Joseph Burgess, Lauren Burgess and Grace Grimm, and nine grandchildren. He is also survived by his mother Claudia; sister Peggy Gonzales; brothers Thomas Burgess, Robert Burgess and Peter Burgess; and numerous nieces and nephews. Visit his page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
Roger Gordon “Chip” Cree, Jr., 64, Vicksburg, passed away June 25, 2024, after two decades of various health concerns. Chip was born to parents Rodger and Ruby Cree on October 26, 1959, in Kalamazoo. He graduated from Vicksburg High School with the class of 1977 where he enjoyed school activities and played football and baseball. Chip married Jamie Brock in 1984, and together the couple raised their children, Travis and Samantha. Chip worked at Simpson Paper Company, Fox River Paper Company, American Axle and Manufacturing, and General Motors throughout his professional career. He was a hard worker driven to succeed in his career and had many successes in his years, and yet his greatest success was his 40-year marriage to the love of his life, Jamie, along with raising his children. Unfortunately, Chip suffered many health challenges in his years that slowed him down enough to take his next role as jovial Papa to his grandchildren, Mae and Liv, as well as many dogs the family has had through the years. Chip loved spending time with friends and family. If he wasn’t putzing around the yard or in the shop, you could find him on his motorcycle for a ride or shooting the breeze at a diner around town. Chip is survived by his wife, Jamie; children Travis (Kelly) Cree and Samantha Cree; grandchildren Mae Cree and Liv Cree. He is also survived by his siblings Michael (Carrie) Cree, Sharon (Gary) Schmidt, and Tami Cree. He was preceded in death by his parents. Visit his page at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Donations may be directed to Generous Hands.
Robert John Dinzik, 80, formerly of Vicksburg, passed away June 7, 2024. He was born September 7, 1943 in Chicago to the late William Dinzik and Sylvia Simone. Robert faced challenges in life, having contracted vascular dementia at a young age. He was raised by his parents and later cared for until his passing by his brother, William. Despite his struggles, Robert was known to be helpful, courteous and spirited. He found joy in playing Polish-style music and watching Lawrence Welk on Saturday nights, a tradition he shared with his late mother. In his free time, Robert enjoyed watching Cubs baseball, NASCAR races and listening to music. Robert is survived by his brother, William J Dinzik, formerly of Vicksburg, and nephews Matthew (Dorothy) Dinzik and Marcus (Kathleen) Dinzik, both of Vicksburg, along with great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews. Cremation has taken place, and private family services will be planned. Donations may go to William J. Dinzik, 225 Broadway Ave. Ste 7 PMB 191, South Haven, Michigan 49090. Special thanks to White Oaks Assisted Living, Lawton, Michigan, Region IV Area Agency on Aging, Milestone Senior Services, Kalamazoo, Michigan, Sue’s Loving Care AFC, Kalamazoo, and Centrica Hospice.
Susan Harper-Grieger, 79, Vicksburg, passed away on June 3, 2024, in Kalamazoo. She was born September 20, 1944, in Ann Arbor, the daughter of James and Victoria (Gellatly) Harper. James passed away when Susan was young, and her mother remarried Arthur Spang, who embraced the role of her father. Susan was an educator and world traveler and held a deep appreciation for different cultures and people. She earned her bachelor’s degree in teaching from WMU and master’s degrees in library science and geography. In her leisure time, Susan dedicated herself to working out, even completing the Chicago Marathon. She also enjoyed gardening and reading. Susan was preceded in death by longtime companion Jerry Yearling, and her parents, James Harper and Victoria and Arthur Spang. She is survived by daughters Chrissy (Scott Thomas) Hamlin of Three Rivers and Jeny (Mike) Dentler of Indiana; grandchildren Kiera (Mike Kruppenbach) Sandoval of Portage, Brandon (Kenzie) Dentler of Indiana and Delaney Dentler of Indiana; and her great grand dog whom she affectionately called Penny Poo Poo. She is also survived by her sister Mary “Harpo” Dake, of Louisiana; nephew Eric Dake, of Louisiana; and great-nephew Huey Dake, of Louisiana. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
Milo “Mike” Lude, formerly of Vicksburg, was born to John and Doris Lude in Fulton on June 30, 1922, and died at 101 years old in Tucson, Arizona. He grew up on a farm in Fulton and graduated from Vicksburg High School in 1940. He attended Hillsdale College where he excelled in football, joined Alpha Tau Omega and eventually coached the baseball team. He joined the Marine Corps during WWII. Upon return, he graduated from Hillsdale on June 2, 1947, and married Rena Pifer three days later. Mike’s chosen career became college athletics. In addition to Hillsdale, he coached football at the University of Maine, University of Delaware and Colorado State University. In 1970 he transitioned to athletic administration as athletic director at Kent State University, then on to the University of Washington and Auburn University. Mike was president of National Athletic Collegiate Directors Association and inducted into the KSU, CSU and UW athletic halls of fame. He also received the National Football Foundation’s John L. Toner award, James Corbett Award (given to the nation’s outstanding athletic director) and more. He was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Rena, in 2017 and his brother, Ron, in 2016. Survivors include Cynthia and Gary Crose, Janann, Mark and Michael Nelson and Jill and Jim Thompson.
Dayla Delain (Nutting) Mackinder, 88, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2024, at Evergreen Senior Care Center, Battle Creek. Dayla was born June 26, 1935, to the late William and Elva Nutting in Bangor. On July 17, 1955, she married her high school sweetheart, Larry, who preceded her in death. She was a 4-H leader, a secretary to two optometrists, transplanted for Posthumus Bros. Greenhouses for over 30 years, worked in the celery fields, and was the breakfast hostess at the local Hampton Inn. She was a member of Portage Chapel Hill UMC for 60 years, and a loving caregiver to Larry for over 25 years. She enjoyed watching her grandchildren’s activities, gardening, traveling, tending her blueberries and shopping. She was also a wonderful cook. Dayla is survived by her daughters, Tonda (Leon) Dimond and Tammy (Terry) Ridenour; granddaughter Deanne (Brent) Austin; grandsons Travis (Ashlee) and Tyler Ridenour; great-grandchildren Clayton and Makayla Austin and Ellie Hinch; sisters-in-law Ann Mackinder and Ruth Ann Nutting; brother-in-law Ron Prentice; many nieces and nephews; and special friends Susie and Clare Kuiper and Carolyn Sopher. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, step-parents, brothers Dwight and Darold, and her sister, Daliene. Donations may go to charity. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
Sara Jean Masse, 81, went to be with the Lord on June 16, 2024. She was born on March 21, 1943, to Paul and Jane (Herrold) Koehler, in Elkhart, Indiana. She met her husband, Richard “Dick” Masse, in 1961 during a concert at Elkhart High School. She attended North Central College for a year in pursuit of a clerical degree and married Dick on June 6, 1964. After Dick finished pharmacy school, they moved back to Elkhart, and in 1976, they moved to Vicksburg where they eventually owned and operated Hill’s Pharmacy. In 1993 they also opened Global Travel in Kalamazoo. Sara handled the clerical, financial and legal duties while raising three boys. Sara was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, son Kevin, and sister Sue Sauer. Sara is survived by her children Jeff (Michelle) Masse, Joshua (Christy) Masse, and daughter in-law Melissa Masse; and grandchildren Jason, Ethan, Kayla, and Joshua Jacob or “JJ.” She is also survived by sister Martha (Mike) Manthey, sister-in-law Margaret (Joe) Morgan, brother-in-law Robert (Sue) Sauer, and many nieces and nephews. Celebrate Sara’s life with family and friends on Saturday, July 13 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Avink, McCowen, & Secord Funeral Home, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com. Donations may go to the Alzheimer’s Association, Michigan Great Lakes Chapter.
William Charles McVeigh Jr., 82, Vicksburg, went to Heaven on June 11, 2024. Bill was born June 4,1942 in Melrose Park, Illinois, the son of William Charles and Ruth McVeigh. Bill grew up near Jackson before moving to Battle Creek where he attended and graduated from Battle Creek St. Philip. He enjoyed many activities and owned two sewing machine stores in Portage, operated a monogram and embroidery business, and eventually opened a knitting mill and moved to Parkville, Michigan. He and Jean eventually moved to Texas and established Afterglo Awning. After suffering a stroke in 2010, Bill returned to Michigan to live with his son, Denny, in Vicksburg where he enjoyed taking in the abundant wildlife in the backyard pond, and the local nature trail. Bill is survived by sons William Robert McVeigh (Jo Carolyn) of Arlington, Texas, Dennis Bernard McVeigh of Vicksburg, Geoff Ondrus (Sherrie) of Conroe, Texas; grandchildren Courtney, Zach, Jamie, Ryan, Shelby, Nikki; great-grandchildren Caelyn, McKenna, Adalyn, Ronan, Mahrle, Eve; and close friend Brittany Baldwin (Travis); siblings Pat Baker, Michael McVeigh (Carol), Anne Webb (Dan), Thomas McVeigh, Joseph McVeigh (Robin), Robert McVeigh (John), Charles McVeigh (Barbara), Mary Nowlin (Berry), James McVeigh (Cindy); and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Jean Marie McVeigh; sisters Jeannie Casterline, Kathy Coffman, and Margaret McVeigh (infant); and brothers John McVeigh and Steve McVeigh. The family would like to thank Milestone Senior Services, Fresh Perspectives, the community, Vicksburg United Methodist Church, and the Police and Fire Department that stopped by often to help him when he fell. Additionally, a warm, special thanks to Denny for all of his care to make sure Dad had the best quality of life possible. Donations may go to Vicksburg United Methodist Church or Battle Creek St. Philip.
Mary Kathryn Neuens, beloved wife to Gordon and dedicated executive secretary and Cablevision employee, passed away May 15, 2024 leaving behind a legacy of warmth and kindness. Born September 21, 1939, in Niles to Lawrence and Eloise Carter, Mary led a fulfilling life filled with love and compassion. She excelled in her career as an executive secretary at Cablevision, where her professionalism and work ethic shone brightly. Outside of her professional life, Mary found joy in simple pleasures like camping in the great outdoors, expressing her creativity through sewing and knitting beautiful pieces, and immersing herself in the pages of countless books. Her curious mind and adventurous spirit were evident to all who knew her. Mary is survived by daughters Becky (Mark) Colyer and Joanne (Jack) Wiley; grandson John Doremus and other cherished grandsons by marriage; niece Barb (Mike) Krug and additional nieces and nephews by marriage; as well as sisters-in-law Alice (Pete) Mohr and Penny (Marv) Pruett. She is reunited in heaven with her lifelong love, Gordon, parents Lawrence and Eloise Carter and three half brothers. Mary has requested no funeral services. Donations may go to American Diabetes Association. Visit her page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
My name is Charline Lucile Lance Patnoude. I was born in a home in Vicksburg, on October 14, 1927, to Lina Angeline Barber Lance and Charles Peter Lance. I started school in a little country school called Maple Grove, between Fulton and Leonidas. We moved back to Vicksburg when I was just entering the 4th grade. I graduated from there in 1944. All my high school years were war years, but we still managed to have a good time. In 1942 I met my husband-to-be, Donald Edwin Patnoude. He was a sailor home on survivor’s leave. We were married three years later in Vicksburg on October 20, 1945, and we had 64 happy years together. I graduated from American Beauty School and worked at it for about two years. From there I worked at Three Rivers Hospital and the office at the Three Rivers Medical Clinic for about 13 years before retiring. I was preceded in death by my parents, Charles and Lina Lance; my husband Donald E. Patnoude; my sons Mark E. Patnoude and Dean E. Patnoude; my sister Geneva L. Davis; and my brother Lyle Lance. I am survived by grandchildren Lance and Nancy Patnoude, Monica Lynn Patnoude, Preston and Tamra Patnoude, Jason and Traci Patnoude, Daron and Tracy Patnoude and Brian Mustchler; and a bunch of great grandchildren, great greats and several wonderful nieces and nephews. Now if it’s true that you meet again in heaven, I am now a very happy person. Visit my page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
Paul Sehy, 77, formerly of Vicksburg, passed away peacefully at his home in Solon, Ohio June 25, 2024. Paul was born on September 7, 1946, to Leonard and Esther Sehy. From an early age, he demonstrated a strong work ethic, carrying out chores on his family’s large fruit farm. At 18, Paul joined the Navy and bravely served his country during the Vietnam War, where he was exposed to Agent Orange. In 1967, he married Dorothy Hitzeman, and together they enjoyed 57 wonderful years of marriage. Paul retired from General Motors in 1999. An avid outdoorsman, Paul cherished hunting, fishing, golfing, gardening, and spending time on any tractor. Known for his playful spirit, he would cheat mercilessly at cards—unless money was involved, in which case he played fair. Above all, Paul loved spending time with his three children and eleven grandchildren. His friendly nature earned him the affectionate nickname “Mayor” from his neighbors, a testament to the high regard in which he was held by all who knew him. Paul was preceded in death by his parents Esther and Leonard, son Tony, sister Christine and brother Andrew. He leaves behind his wife of 57 years, Dorothy, son Joe (Cheryl), daughter Nikki (Eric), daughter-in-law Kelly and eleven grandchildren. The family will host a celebration of life bonfire in Ohio this October. Donations may go to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Dennis “Denny” VanWeelden came to this world in 1954. Denny was a lifelong resident of the Kalamazoo area. He grew up in Parchment and was active in multiple sports. He loved the water, boating, fishing, and skiing. He enjoyed weightlifting and bodybuilding with his wife, Pam, and many friends; a hobby he took part in until his passing. He loved to socialize. He retired from Lawton Middle School where he taught science, math and physical education. He also coached many of the girls’ teams. The treasures Denny held dearest to his heart were his family, close friends and neighbors. He loved spending his time with Pam, and his son was the apple of his eye. Denny loved doing anything and everything with Jeremy. Most recently, big lake boating and fishing filled their weekends. Nothing made him happier than supporting his family’s interests and creating fun memories to cherish. Dennis was a wonderful father, husband, son, brother, and friend. He will be missed. Dennis was preceded in death by the love of his life and wife of 46 years, Pam “Drenth” VanWeelden. Their son, Jeremy, who survives, will miss them both greatly. Denny is also survived by his loving parents, Wayne and Bea VanWeelden; his sister and brother-in-law Cindy and Brad Boven; sister Linda Moed; and seven nieces and nephews. Visit his page at amsfuneralhomes.com.
