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Funeral Services:

Susan Helen Nault of Eaton Rapids passed away October 1, 2026, at the age of 82. Susan was born in Sault Ste Marie, Michigan on August 14, 1944, the daughter of William and Helen (Van Brocklin) Murphy. She was a woman of strong faith who was a devoted member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte. Susan cherished her faith and enjoyed participating in Bible study. She faithfully served her church and community as a Eucharistic Minister and volunteered with St. Vincent de Paul, always finding ways to help and care for others.

Throughout her career, Susan worked for both the Internal Revenue Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. She took pride in her work and the years she dedicated to serving others. In her free time, Susan found joy in sewing and quilting. She lovingly made quilts for each of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, creating treasured keepsakes that will be cherished for generations. She also enjoyed being a member of the Red Hat Society, where she formed lasting friendships and shared many special times with others.

Susan is survived by her children, Tammy Nault, Todd (Michelle) Nault, Tony (DeeDee) Nault, Theresa Pittington, Troy (Corrie) Nault, William (Donna) Paul; several grandchildren and great grandchildren; sisters, Carolyn Zomchek, Diane White. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Terry Nault; siblings, William Murphy, Patricia Lewis.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation in loving memory of Susan Helen Nault.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

Anthony Don Thomas born May 27, 1978, unexpectedly passed away on September 17, 2026.

Tony grew up in Eaton Rapids and was a 1996 Eaton Rapids graduate. He excelled at running, writing and being the front man of various bands. He was one of those people that would actually give you the shirt off his back. Anybody who has sat and talked with Tony knew exactly how intelligent and wise beyond his years he was.

Tony was there for anyone that needed it, no questions asked. He was supportive, caring, generous, and had a heart of gold.

Tony is survived by Lori Tomas (Mother), Gary Thomas (Father), Derek Thomas, Josh Thomas (Brothers) and Danielle Thomas (sister).

Tony made an incredible impact on everyone he encountered. He loved his family dearly and we will forever miss one of the kindest souls we had the privilege of knowing.

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Funeral Services:

Ruth Ann Resseguie, age 88, of Charlotte, Michigan, passed away peacefully on October 12, 2026, at her home surrounded by those she loved.

She was born on July 18, 1938, in Greenfield, Tennessee, the daughter of John and Velma (Witherspoon) Rogers. Ruth carried through life a warm and welcoming spirit that drew people to her wherever she went. She graduated from Greenfield High School in 1957.

Ruth retired after many years of service with General Motors. She was known as an outgoing person who loved visiting with others and made friends easily. Her kindness and easy conversation left lasting impressions on the many people who had the pleasure of knowing her. She found joy in shopping and especially treasured spending time with her family and friends, the people who meant so much to her throughout her life. Ruth adored her dog, Cody. The two shared a special bond and companionship.

Ruth is survived by her significant other, Larry Uhl; step-son, Jeff Resseguie; step-daughter, Dawn Rigelman; special friend, Lanette (Don) Dendinger; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Buna Earls, Georgia Richards; and brother, Jack Rogers.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Maple Hill Cemetery, 801 Tully Brown Drive, Charlotte, Michigan 48813 with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating.

Those desiring may make contributions in Ruth’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org

To view Ruth’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.

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Funeral Services:

Irving Neil Smith, age 77, passed away on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at Eaton Community Palliative Care. He was born on March 19, 1949, in Lansing, the son of Ida (Smith) Miller.

Irving graduated from Charlotte High School with the Class of 1967. He faithfully served his country in the Army National Guard. On November 25, 1968, he married Sharon Pierce in Pennfield Township. He later retired after many years of service from General Motors in Lansing.

He enjoyed the simple pleasures of life and found happiness in the things he loved most. Irving enjoyed chuckwagon style cooking, spending time around a campfire, woodworking, collecting Mountain Dew memorabilia, collecting hats, and working around the farm. Irving was a longtime member of the Northwest Michigan Draft Horse and Mule Association. He was also a man who shared what he knew, and he taught his family everything he knew. Of all the things he valued in life, his proudest accomplishment was his family.

Irving is survived by his wife of 57 years, Sharon; son, William Smith of Manitowoc, Wisconsin; daughter, Suzalyn Nelson of Charlotte; honorary daughter, Moana Fuller; grandchildren: Elizabeth Smith, Chelsea Smith, Dominique (Zach) Spagnuolo, Will Smith, Lucas Nelson, Marcus Nelson, Justin Nelson; great-grandson, Emmette Smith; honorary granddaughter, Bri Banfield; siblings: Dan (Janette) Miller, Doris (Doug) Ewing, Doug (Betty) Miller, Darlene (Chuck) Cowling, Dewayne Miller, Dwight (Mary) Miller; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ida and Chester Miller; son-in-law, Matthew Nelson; sister and brother-in-law, Wanita (Art) Clark; sister-in-law, Kim Miller; and niece, Cherish Cook.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026 at 3:30 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 2 to 3:30 p.m. prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery at a later date.

Those desiring may make contributions in Irving’s memory to the Northwest Michigan Draft Horse and Mule Association, 4700 Wallaker Road, Benzonia, Michigan 49616.

To view Irving’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com

The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.

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Funeral Services:

Joan Elanora Garthe, 73, of Olivet, Michigan, passed away on Tuesday, September 29, 2026 at Thornapple Manor in Hastings, Michigan.

Joan was born on July 7, 1953 in Petoskey, Michigan to Stanley H. and Jorunn E. (Norson) Garthe.

Joan graduated from Petoskey High School. She continued her education at Western Michigan University earning her Bachelor of Science Degree, Majoring in Agricultural Sciences.

On December 22, 1980, Joan married John Selby Homer. They were married for 40 wonderful years before his passing on December 11, 2021.

She was a member of the Olivet Congregational Church where she was on the church board and taught Sunday school as well. Joan was actively involved in the Olivet community along with her husband John.

Joan worked for 15 years as a tax preparer for H & R Block in Charlotte, Michigan. She was also a Karate Instructor for the youth in Olivet, Michigan.

Joan loved to read, watch Star Trek and participate with the Zumba Troop in Charlotte, Michigan. She, along with John enjoyed tending to their garden and traveling to Petoskey, Michigan to visit family. Earning her black belt in Akai-Tatsu Ko-Bujitsu was a major achievement that she was so proud of, she did not back down from any challenge in life. Above all else, her greatest joy was her family.

Joan is survived by her children, Anna (Rusty) McBride of Whitehall, Michigan, Arthur (Autumn) Homer of Battle Creek, Michigan, Elizabeth Homer of Washington, DC, Andrew (Zainab) Homer of Augusta, Georgia and Katherine (Braendon Hook) Homer of Hastings, Michigan, her grandchildren, Sean McBride, Sam McBride, Easton Homer, Kirby Homer, Gavin Homer and Elanora Homer. She is also survived by two great grandchildren and her siblings, Marlene (William) Mayer of Petoskey, Michigan, Barbara “Bunny” Hartshorn of Holtville, California and Stuart Garthe of Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Preceded in death by her parents and her husband, John Selby Homer, Ph.D.

Visitation for Joan will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026 from 11 a.m. to noon at Olivet Congregational Church with the Memorial Service to follow at noon. Rev. Garry Fisher officiating. Burial will follow at Olivet Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to the Olivet Congregational Church (125 College Street Olivet, MI 49076).

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral & Cremation Services, 723 US Hwy 27 North, Marshall, MI 49068, (269) 781-9858.

Online condolences can be made at www.kempffuneralhome.com.

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Funeral Services:

Robert Eugene Donley, 91, of Charlotte, Michigan, died peacefully on October 9, 2026. He was born on March 11, 1935, in Vermontville, Michigan, to Otto and Ruth (Althouse) Donley.

Robert was a kindhearted man with a great sense of humor and a straightforward way of speaking. He never minced words, always telling it like it was. He enjoyed reading westerns and adventure books, attending farm auctions, and finding treasures among the many items for sale. He also loved cutting wood and spending time fishing.

A dedicated, hard worker, Robert, spent 30 years working for Grabel Trucking. He also owned and operated a farm, raising Black Angus cattle and hogs for what he would jokingly say was “way too long.” He took great pride in his work and everything he put his hands to.

Above all, Robert was proud of his family. His love for his children and grandchildren was evident in the countless photographs he kept of them. Those pictures served as a reflection of what mattered most to him and the joy his family brought into his life.

Robert married Florence (Lundeen) on April 7, 1957, and together they shared a wonderful life for 69 years. They were blessed with two children, Sarah and Mike, who remain an important part of his legacy.

Robert is survived by his wife, Florence; daughter Sarah (Foye, Jr.) Pierce; son, Mike (Kathleen); grandchildren, Foye III, Mandy, Nick, Autumn, and Christopher; great-grandchildren, Kylee, Foye IV, Larra, Xavier, Zander, Augustanna, and great-great granddaughter, Lucy. He was predeceased by his sister, Lola Wilson; and brother-in-law, Jim C. Wilson.

Friends are encouraged to support Robert’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Wednesday, October 14, 2026, from noon to 2 p.m. Funeral services immediately followed at 2 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor John Messner officiating. The Graveside service followed at West Carmel Cemetery. The funeral was webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Robert’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Charlotte Library. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Jackie “Jack” William Baker, 77, of Vermontville, a man whose love for his family knew no bounds, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Friday, October 9, 2026. Jack was born on July 18, 1949, in Cheboygan, Michigan, the son of Cyrus and Laura (Hatt) Baker. On July 9, 1972, he married the love of his life, Lucy Benedict. Together, they shared 54 wonderful years of marriage, building a life filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories.

Following his graduation from Charlotte High School, Jack was drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam era and proudly served his country while stationed in Germany. He went on to dedicate 42 years of hard work to Owens-Illinois as a machine repairman before retiring in 2010. Jack took great pride in his work and especially enjoyed the opportunities it gave him to travel to plants across the country and world, lending his expertise to repairing equipment and building new machines.

A true outdoorsman at heart, Jack was happiest when he was hunting or fishing. He appreciated life’s simple pleasures, whether it was a competitive game of euchre or cribbage, watching an old Western, cheering on the Detroit Tigers, or taking a leisurely drive down the backroads to check on the crops and spot wildlife. Jack never needed a particular destination; sometimes the joy was simply in the drive itself.

Although Jack could be set in his ways and wasn’t afraid to let you know what he thought, beneath that stubborn streak was a man with a big heart and an unwavering devotion to those he loved. Above all else, Jack treasured his family. Being a husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend brought him his greatest happiness, and the memories he created with those closest to him will be cherished for generations to come.

Jack is survived by his wife, Lucy; children, Jason (Melanie) Baker, Juli (Troy) Jacobusse, and Jami Glass; grandchildren, Adia, Emma, Cara, Ashlyn, and Dani; siblings, Marion Pelto, Donna VanVleet, Ernie (Marilyn) Baker, and Rose (Dave) Spidel; and numerous extended family members. He was predeceased by his parents; son-in-law, Josh Glass; siblings, Esther Wells, Lewis Baker, and Barbara Ann Baker.

Friends are encouraged to support Jack’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A celebration of life for Jack will be held on Friday, November 13, 2026 from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Bismark Schoolhouse/Community Build 8925 Round Lake Road, Vermontville, Michigan 49096.  If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Duane Karl Hice, 89, of Charlotte, Michigan, passed away on October 9, 2026, in Charlotte. Born on December 11, 1936, in Charlotte, Duane spent his life rooted in the community he called home and dedicated to the agricultural way of life.

The son of Howard and Agnes Hice, Duane grew up in Charlotte and graduated from Charlotte High School in 1954. The same year, he earned his FFA State Farmer degree, an early reflection of the lifelong connection he would maintain with agriculture.

Duane grew up farming alongside his father and continued farming throughout his life. His passion for agriculture also carried into his career as a farm equipment salesman, from which he retired from Janson Equipment. Following Charlene’s passing, he married Sonja (Satterly) in 1995.

Duane was deeply committed to his community and generously gave his time and talents to support the people and agricultural traditions of Eaton County. He served on several boards, including the Soil Conservation Board, Farm Bureau Elevator Board and Eaton Township Board of Review. He was also very active with the Eaton County Fair, serving as Dairy Superintendent of several years. His involvement reflected his enduring dedication to farming and the community that had been part of his life from the beginning.

Those who knew Duane will remember his quick wit and his gift for storytelling.  He always had a story to share, and his humor and familiar presence made him a memorable part of the lives of those around him.

Duane’s life was defined by a lifelong dedication to farming, a commitment to his community, and the stories and humor he shared with others. His legacy lives on through his family, the agricultural community, and the many people whose lives he touched throughout his years in Charlotte. He will be remembered with affection and gratitude by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Duane was preceded in death by his first wife, Charlene (May) Hice; his second wife, Sonja (Satterly) Hice; his daughters, Connie Kay Hice and Carol Ann Anderson; his brothers, Don Hice and Dale Hice; sister-in-law, Pat Hice and his former son-in-law, Kurt Coffman.

He is survived by his sister-in-law, Shirley Hice; his stepchildren, April (Randy) Heinze, Donald (Kelly) Kerby, and Patrick (Christine) Kerby; his grandchildren, Ben Coffman, Connie Coffman, Breanna (Michael) Emenhiser, Jace (Carson) Heinze, Eliana Heinze, Shyane Kerby, Daisy Kerby, Allison Kerby, and Logan Kerby; and his great-grandchildren, Weston Heinze, Lawton Emenhiser, Camden Heinze, Harper Emenhiser, Wrenley Heinze, Emberly Eberhard, and Amelia Blackwell; and many nieces and nephews.

Family extends its heartfelt appreciation to the staff at Eaton County Health and Rehabilitation Services and Eaton County Palliative Care for their care, kindness, and support.

Friends are encouraged to support Duane’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Monday, October 12, 2026, noon to 2 p.m. Funeral services followed at 2 pm. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Duane’s great-nephew, Jon Whitford officiating. A Graveside service followed at Bosworth Cemetery. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Duane’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton County Fair or Eaton Community Palliative Care. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Charlotte Ina Cowell, of Vermontville, Michigan, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2026, at the age of 88. She was born in January 1938, in Dowling, Michigan, to Waynard and Margaret Belson.

Charlotte lived a life centered around family, friendship, faith, and making lasting memories with the people she loved. In July 1955, she married the love of her life, Henry Cowell, in Nashville, Michigan. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, family, and many adventures.

Charlotte was a proud mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Family was at the heart of Charlotte’s life, and she treasured every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She took great joy in watching them grow, celebrating their accomplishments, and being there to support them every step of the way. She could often be found attending sporting events and horse shows, proudly cheering on her grandchildren.

Charlotte enjoyed many hobbies throughout her life, including cooking, reading, riding quads, camping, and spending time with her grandchildren. She was also well known for her generosity and willingness to help others. Affectionately known as the “Cookie Lady,” Charlotte loved baking and sharing her cookies with family, friends, and those in her community.

Her love of cooking extended into her community as well. For many years, Charlotte made the barbecue sauce for the United Methodist Church chicken dinners held during the Maple Syrup Festival. She also brought joy to countless people during the Christmas season, when she was lovingly known as Mrs. Claus, spreading Christmas cheer and making the holidays a little more magical for those around her.

Charlotte’s kindness, generosity, humor, and love for her family will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Charlotte is survived by her beloved husband of 71 years, Henry Cowell; her children, Sheila (Danny) Dunn, Kenneth (Sue) Cowell, Steven (Teresa) Cowell, and Kelli Cowell; along with her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and sister Charlene Shoup.

She was preceded in death by her parents Waynard and Margaret Belson, her brother-in-law Dave Shoup, her daughter, Rebecca Gallimore, and her son-in-law, Steve Gallimore.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Daniels Funeral Home in Nashville, Michigan.

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Funeral Services:

Sally Ann Geisenhaver, age 82, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, October 5, 2026. She was born on December 15, 1943, in Eaton Rapids, the daughter of Edward and Carrie (Heisler) Oberlin.

Sally will be remembered as an outgoing lady who loved visiting with others and sharing time with the people around her. She took great pride in her home, enjoying working around it and keeping everything in immaculate shape. She also found happiness in camping near Indian River and spending time on Burt Lake, places that held special meaning for her and brought her many cherished moments.

Above all else, Sally’s family was her proudest accomplishment in life. She treasured family gatherings and especially loved spending the holidays together with those she held closest. The time shared around celebrations, visits, and everyday moments formed the heart of her life and will remain a lasting part of her memory.

Sally is survived by her sons: Gregg Hall, Todd (Kelly) Bayes, Montie (Stacie) Bayes, Darren (Michelle) Warner; step-daughters: Nichole (James) Bennett, Heather (Jabarhe) Warren, Sonya Geisenhaver; 22 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; niece, Lisa Clore; and several other special nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Sandy Deupree; brothers: Dick Oberlin, Steve Oberlin; husband Brian Geisenhaver; loving companion, Kevin Place; daughter-in-law, Sherri Hall; and grandson, Greggory (Scotty) Hall.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, at 2 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Pastor Jim Riley officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Those desiring may make contributions in Sally’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital www.stjude.org

To view Sally’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for her family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com

The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.