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Funeral Services:

Sandra Kay Borseth, a feisty, loving, and witty mother, grandmother, and friend, died on Friday, October 13, 2023. Sandra, 78, of Lansing, MI. the daughter of Kenneth and Mary (Stillwell) Smith was born on July 30, 1945. She worked as a secretary for several companies over the years, most recently and where she retired is the State of Michigan with the Department of Corrections. Anyone that knew Sandra knew that she loved her Bingo. She could be found most days at the Carousel Bingo Hall. It was at the Bingo Hall where she was given the nickname “Buny.” Other hobbies she enjoyed were watching the Game Show Network, fishing, spending time at the family cottage on Bass Lake, sewing, knitting, cooking, and baking. In October of 1995 Sandra married Ronald Borseth. They were married for a short time before his passing. Sandra was strong with her Catholic faith; she attended St. Gerard Catholic Church. Above all, her family was the most important thing to her, with her Bingo winnings a close second. In a letter Sandra wrote to her children she said, “Don’t cry and don’t mourn my death. Instead, be happy that I have gone to be with my family that is already there.”

Sandra is survived by her children, Gerald (Wendy) Heppe II, and Melinda (Jeffrey) Wood; grandchildren, Devon (Macy) Wood, Bailey (Peter Rice) Wood, Diedrich Heppe, Marissa (Jared Martin) Wood, and Broch Heppe; 1 great-grandson, Mason, with another on the way; and dear friend, Denny Hardin. She was predeceased by her husband, Ronald Borseth; the father to her children, Gerald Heppe; sisters, Winonna Dyer, and Loretta Nead; and her parents.

The family would like to extend a thank you to Moores AFC Home for the loving care provided. Specifically, Shelby, Paula, Cindy, Ashley, and Kim. The family is forever grateful. Friends are encouraged to support Sandra’s family by sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. The family will be planning a Celebration of Life for Sandra for a later date. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Harmony Cares Hospice. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Sarah Jane (Wood) Nichols passed away peacefully in Kalamazoo, Michigan, on October 14, 2023, having graced this world with her thoughtful and generous presence since July 3, 1954. Born in Charlotte, Michigan, Sarah created a vibrant legacy that spanned family, work, and community.

She is survived by her sons, Jim (Jodi) Nichols, and Bill (Allison Bazaire) Nichols, along with three grandchildren who were her utmost delight: Easton, Keiser, and Eli Nichols. Sarah’s siblings, Nancy Adams, Norm (Jackie) Wood, Wilmott (Deborah) Wood, Edgar Wood, and John (Nicole) Wood, and their families, share in the loss. Her loving sisters-in-law, Mary Dewald, Pat Nichols and Sandy Wood, and brother-in-law, Larry (Brigette) Nichols, will forever remember her warmth. Sarah was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harold Nichols, daughter, Mary Nichols, her parents, and brother, Robert Wood.

Beyond her family by blood, Sarah’s unwavering heart held a chosen family dear. Lacey (Brian) Helmus, and their children Ellie, Laylee, and Jack, as well as the broader Patterson family equally mourn their loss. Sarah had numerous “other kids” that she loved and cherished their presence in her life.

Starting as a teen, Sarah served the State of Michigan for nearly 39 years – a position she initially took up for three months at the tender age of 16. Her dedication to her work was clear evidence of her tenacity and commitment.

On June 16, 1979, Sarah married the love of her life, Harold Nichols. During their 38 years together before Harold’s passing in December 2016, the couple savored their shared passion for travel. Sarah’s selflessness shone brightly through an annual Easter egg hunt tradition she started even before she had children of her own. This event celebrated its 40th year last Easter, bringing Sarah immense joy as she filled over 3,000 eggs, witnessing hundreds of thrilled children participating.

Sarah was part of the congregation of the First Baptist Church in Middleville. People remember her as a woman who was both thoughtful and generous, willing to extend her hand to help anyone in need.
Sarah’s spirit will be missed not only by her family but also by her many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, who are left to cherish her memory. Sarah made a mark on this world with the love she spread, the work she accomplished, and the families she built. As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the values, love, and joy she brought into our lives.

Sarah’s family received friends on Thursday, October 19, 2023 at the Beeler-Gores Funeral Home. A celebration of Sarah’s life was conducted on Friday, October 20, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Middleville, with Pastor Nate Archer officiating. Sarah will be laid to rest next to her husband at Mount Hope Cemetery in Middleville. Memorial contributions to the Mary Fund will be appreciated. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or leave a condolence message for Sarah’s family.

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Funeral Services:

Paul Thomas Wing went to see Jesus and praise God in heaven on October 15, 2023.

Paul was born in Battle Creek, Michigan on January 3, 1940, to Howard Thomas and Wilma Burgan (Meek) Wing, joining his sisters Roberta and Ardith, Mary, and Martha and Norma. They were the fourth generation of Thomas and Elizabeth Wing, who came from England in 1853 to settle on 40 acres in Assyria Township, Barry County, MI. The farm grew to 440 acres and is still farmed by the 5th and 6th generations today.

Paul was a farmer first and made time to serve his community. He earned the “American Farmer” degree in FFA and completed the two-year Agricultural Short Course at Michigan Agricultural College (later MSU). He went on to serve on the Bellevue School Board and many boards in Barry County, including Farm Bureau, Conservation District Board, and Conservation Easement Board. He was a member of the Michigan Milk Producers Association for over 35 years. He was especially passionate in his “retirement” about preserving farmland, and recently received recognition from the state of Michigan for his lifelong work in agriculture preservation.

Most important to Paul was his faith in Jesus Christ. He was active at Baseline UMC, holding several offices on the church board and participating in many events where he worshiped God and enjoyed singing in the choir for many years.

Paul married Alma Sue Olmstead, his kindergarten crush and high school sweetheart, in Bellevue, Michigan on September 5, 1959. They raised five Christian children: Jennifer Jane (Brian) Krauss, Abby Anne (Leo) Green, Thomas Jason (Heather) Wing, Beth Michele (Roy) Hoffman, and Rebecca (Becky) Lucille (Glenn) Noffsinger. Liz (Jesse) Crofoot also joined the family, as have 18 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. All survive him, as well as his sister, Norma (Richard) Gregg; sisters-in-law Ilene MacDonald and Alice Palatas; brother-in-law, Bob Erwin; and many nieces and nephews.

Paul will be remembered for his love of his family, showing up when others needed help, loving unconditionally, and appreciating a good joke and a game of cards. He is surely rejoicing in heaven and will be greatly missed here on earth.

Paul will be laid to rest at Bell Cemetery in Assyria Township directly after a church service to honor his life at Baseline Church, 9617 E Baseline Road, Battle Creek, Michigan 49017 on Saturday, October 21, 2023, with visitation from 10:00-12:00, funeral at 12:00, and a luncheon at church following the burial. Services will be by Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services and officiated by Pastors Barry Case and Peggy Baker. Memorials in Paul’s honor can be made to Baseline Church.

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Funeral Services:

Ronald LeRoy Hisler, age 89, of Charlotte, left us peacefully on Sunday, October 15, surrounded by his family. He was born August 15, 1934, to Henry and Thelma (Sebastion) Hisler and was raised on the family farm. He graduated from Olivet High School with the Class of 1952. On December 21, 1952, he married Nyla Ross at the Olivet Congregational Church. Ron was a lifetime farmer who was passionate about his work. He served his community in many different capacities but was most proud of his involvement in the Brookfield United Methodist Church, Brookfield Masonic Lodge, and the Eaton County Shrine Club. He also served on the Olivet School Board for many years. In his spare-time he enjoyed hunting, traveling, and spending winters in Florida. Some of their most memorable trips were to Yellowstone, Australia, Hawaii, and Panama. Ron and Nyla also took all of their children on two Alaskan vacations, a west coast cruise, and a color cruise on the east coast. Above all Ron cherished his family and loved each and every one of them dearly.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Nyla; brother, Rodger (Janice) Hisler; children, Debbi (Roger) Quada, Craig (Cindy) Hisler, Tammy (Paul) Wolf, Rhonda (John) Geething; grandchildren, Culley Bunker, Mindy LaFay, Melissa Bremmer, Michelle Wolf, Amanda Robinson, Terran Myers; and 16 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held on Friday, October 20, 2023, at 11 a.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Pastor Irene Vittoz officiating. The family received friends on Thursday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Bosworth Cemetery.

Those desiring may make contributions in Ron’s memory to the Brookfield United Methodist Church, PO Box 430, Charlotte, MI 48813 or Shriners Children’s Hospital at www.shrinerschildrens.org.

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

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Funeral Services:

In Loving Memory of Gary Lee Marsh. On Tuesday, October 17, 2023, we bid a heartfelt farewell to Gary Lee Marsh, a remarkable man who graced our lives with his warmth and love. At the age of 83, Gary passed away in Lansing, Michigan, leaving behind a legacy of cherished memories.

Gary was born on February 9, 1940, in Owosso, Michigan, the son of Ester Marsh. His journey was one of love, dedication, and service. On September 12, 1992 he married Carol Beam. His favorite childhood memories were filled with the joy of following his loyal beagle, “Old Joe,” into the woods on his grandfather’s farm, where he found solace and companionship.

Gary’s professional life was marked by versatility and dedication. He began as a farmer, tending to the land and honing a strong work ethic. His career then led him to Mitchel Bentley in Ionia, where he played a vital role in building auto bodies, showcasing his craftsmanship and attention to detail. In 1957 Gary enlisted in the United States Air Force. He was stationed in Europe as a jet aircraft mechanic, a role that exemplified his unwavering commitment to excellence. After his military service, he briefly worked at the Detroit Free Press before finding his place at Consolidated Freight and later at Diamond Reo. His final chapter in the working world was with Oldsmobile and General Motors, where his innovative ideas earned him an award for improving manufacturing processes. He retired in 1990, having made a significant impact on his field. Even in retirement, he continued to share his skills, working briefly at Pray Funeral Home as a maintenance person.

Gary’s passions and interests were as diverse as his career. His love for Volkswagen cars was evident in his restoration of a 1968 VW Bug, a project he undertook without a manual. In addition to the Bug, he built three dune buggies, leaving a legacy of creativity and hands-on craftsmanship. Gary also had a deep affection for woodworking and gardening, where he showcased his skill and love for nature.

His sense of humor and love for sharing jokes and humorous stories were legendary. His favorite poem, “Now I lay me down to sleep, a bag of peanuts at my feet. If I should die before I wake, know I died with a belly ache,” perfectly captured his charming wit and warm spirit.

Above all else, Gary was most proud of his children and grandchildren and the joy of helping others. His caring nature and love for his family and community will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

Gary is survived by his three children: Lisa (Mike) Kavanagh, Tim (Julie) Marsh, and Jeff (Niki) Marsh; stepchildren, Alan (Jan) Groner, Joni Powell, Cara James, and Ann (Jesse) Kemp. His legacy continues through six grandchildren: Chad (Kris) Kavanagh, Cory (Maggie) Kavanagh, Timmy Marsh Jr., Amanda (Logan) Johnson, Jeremy (Shelby Wilbur) Marsh, Josh Marsh, and 9 step-grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren brought joy to his life. He was preceeded in death by his wife, Carol; and his mother Ester.

In honor of Gary’s remarkable life, a Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, October 30, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. A visitation will be held just prior to the service from 1-2:00 p.m. If desired the family suggests memorial contributions to the Eaton County Humane Society.

As we say our final farewell, we take comfort in the knowledge that Gary’s spirit will continue to warm our hearts with cherished memories, laughter, and the enduring love he shared with us all. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Janice Marie Williams, age 66 of Bellevue, peacefully left this earth and went to be with her Lord on Friday, October 13, 2023. She was born on April 30, 1957, in Jackson, Michigan, the daughter of Ronald and Bonnie (Roby) Johnson. Janice graduated Charlotte High School with the class of ’75. She went on to obtain her Bachelor of Science Degree from Indiana Wesleyan University. As a registered nurse, Janice worked for several years at Hayes Green Beach Hospital. In 1982, Janice married the love of her life, Donald Williams.

Janice always had a heart for others and loved helping wherever she could. As a farm wife, she helped Donald on the farm and at the Eaton County Fair as a volunteer 4-H leader. For 19 years, Janice helped with the children’s ministry at Calvary Baptist Church. She loved cooking and baking for her family and taking care of them. One of her favorite pastimes was wool felting. Paramount in Janice’s life, though, was her love for her family and her Savior. She will be deeply missed by her children, grandchildren, and her siblings.

Those surviving her are her children; Hannah Ymker of Bellevue, Martha Williams of Bellevue, Alecia (Wesley) Storms of Centreville, Daniel Williams of Bellevue, and Janika Williams of Mackinac Island; four grandchildren, Samuel Ymker, Hunter Ymker, Isabella Storms, Esther Storms; siblings, Rich (Sue) Johnson, JoNesta (Dale) Thompson, Mike (Deb Eddy) Johnson; longtime friends, Vicky Wright and Darlene Zeliff; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband Donald in 2013, and her parents Ronald and Bonnie Johnson.

The family received friends for a time of visitation at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home on Wednesday, October 18, 2023. The funeral service was held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 19, 2023, at the funeral home. Interment followed at the Kalamo Hillside Cemetery.

Those desiring may make contributions in memory of Janice to her family to help with final expenses.
To view Janice’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family, please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.

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Funeral Services:

Bryon L. Janousek, age 57, lost his battle with cancer on October 13, 202. Bryon was co-owner of Ace Auto Repair, LLC for 20+ years with Dan Flory.

He is survived by his wife, Tracy; daughter Tracii Jo; and two grandsons that had a special place in his heart, Opie and Jaxson; his mom, Jeanne Graeber; sister, Jodi (Gary) Gould; brother, Shawn (Kolena) Janousek; his in-laws, Larry (Betty) Russell and Dennis (Colleen) TenEyck; brothers-in-law, Troy (Eileen) TenEyck and Eric (Jennifer) TenEyck; sister-in-law, Mandy TenEyck; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Bryon was preceded in death by his dad, Terry Janousek and stepdad, Donald Graeber.

A Memorial Service will be held at his home on October 28, 2023, from 1:00-6:00 p.m., with a short service by Pastor Joe Benedict at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Gilmore Car Museum in his memory at www.gilmorecarmuseum.org/support/donate or to the family, to be saved for his grandsons, at Highpoint Community Bank.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Daniels Funeral Home-Nashville, conveniently located at 9200 East M79 Highway, Nashville, MI. For further details please visit our website at www.danielsfuneralhome.net.

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Funeral Services:

Jerry Ray Cairl of Eaton Rapids, passed away on October 16, 2023, at the age of 84. Jerry was born on June 30, 1939, in Wyman, MI to parents Alice (Jennings) Cairl and Walter Cleveland Cairl. He was raised with several siblings, Patricia, Joe, Mike, Tom, and Verona until moving to Perrinton, MI. He graduated from Fulton Middleton in 1958 and soon after married Linda Kay (Duttenhaver) Cairl. They had several children together and moved to the Lansing area where they were both employed. He is preceded in death by wife Linda (Duttenhaver) Cairl and children, Tracy, Randy, Steven, and Alan.

He worked a short period of time in an oil foundry, followed by Pepsi Cola and then finally to his career job of 30 years, at M & M Distributing as a route salesman and warehouse manager.

He married Shirley Jean (Heckard) in 1970 and welcomed her five children to his existing family of three.
They raised their children in Eaton Rapids and then moved to their retirement homestead in Barryton, MI, where he was a member of the Roadrunner Men’s Club and Barryton Methodist Church. They later returned to Eaton Rapids to be closer to family and gain fellowship with others in their prior community.

Jerry loved all things outdoors. He loved to fish, hunt, and watch his garden grow. He enjoyed nurturing the wildlife- feeding birds, deer and even turkey. He was generous with his time, his advice, and beloved stories. He was above all humorous, quick-witted, and kept everyone laughing in life!

He is preceded in death by those mentioned previously and his wife, Shirley (Heckard) Cairl; parents, Alice (Jennings) Cairl and Walter Cairl; and brother, Joe Cairl.

Jerry is survived by his children, Jerilyn (Dan) O’Leary of Alger, Adam (Terri) Cairl of Williamston, Rochelle (Kevin) Caslavka of Holt, Renee’ Sutfin of TN, Stacy (Barb) Sutfin of East Tawas, Roxanne (Charles Ward) Lord of Holt, Steven (Alicia) Sutfin of Dansville; grandchildren, Logan (Andrea Scott) Lyon, Stephanie (Adam) Pikulski, Brandy Bragg, Jessica (James Martin) Lyon, Erin (Austin) Norton, Alison (Taryn) Laverdiere, Michael Lord, Joshua (Jacie Pitchford) Cairl, Jacob (Kylie) Cairl, Shelby (Zac) Pittman, Brittney Daly, Seth Caslavka, Dana Caslavka, James Gibson, and Tyler Sutfin; great grandchildren, Landon Lyon, Isla Lyon, Ruby Lyon, Leyna Lyon, Hudson Pikulski, Killian Loveall, Nora Loveall, Brecken Martin, Lynnlee Norton, Otto Norton, Dori Norton, Dilyn Laverdiere, Ivy Laverdiere, Wells Cairl; siblings, Patricia Zammeron, Mike (Connie) Cairl, Tom (Peg) Cairl, Verona (Keith) Nyquist.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. October 25, 2023, at the First United Methodist Church, 600 S. Main St., Eaton Rapids, with Pastor Marty DeBow officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. 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:

Aaron Spicer Babbitt of Eaton Rapids, MI, peacefully departed to join his heavenly father on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at the age of 35 after a two year battle with esophageal cancer. Aaron was born on December 28, 1987, in Hancock, MI, to parents Dan Babbitt and Lisa Price-Babbitt. He grew up in Eaton Rapids and was a proud member of the class of 2006.

Aaron was a true outdoors enthusiast, finding joy in hunting, fishing, and target shooting. He was a former member of the Grand Rapids Junior Pacers, competing on a national level in wheelchair basketball. Aaron also engaged in adaptive sports programs through Michigan State University. He is a graduate of Michigan Technical Institute and took great pride in his studies as a Pharmaceutical Technician.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Aaron dedicated his time to volunteering and advocating for Suicide Awareness and Prevention, as well as supporting the American Cancer Society. He was a cherished brother, son, uncle, grandson, and friend, who deeply loved his family and cherished every moment spent with them.
Aaron is preceded in death by his mother, Lisa Price-Babbitt; grandfather, Tom Price; grandfather, Jim McLaughlin; uncle, Rod McLaughlin; and cousin, Ryan Savage.

He is survived by his loving parents, Dan and Shari Babbitt; and his devoted grandparents, Bill and Judy Babbitt, Leona McLaughlin, and Donna Price. Aaron’s memory lives on through his sisters, Kristen (Tev Bergeron) Dembowske, Alexis (Andrew) Holmes, Sheila (Jake Stickler) Babbitt; as well as his nephews, Nolan and Corbin Dembowske, who he loved and adored to no end. He also leaves behind girlfriend, Becky Weston; and special friends, John Steward and Jason Boatman; along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

A funeral service to celebrate Aaron’s life was held on Thursday, October 19, 2023, at the First United Methodist Church in Eaton Rapids. For those who wish to make memorial contributions, donations may be directed to the Craig Cartwright Memorial Fund or the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in memory of Aaron and his passion for helping others. To share your memories or leave online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Funeral Services:

Linton Ray Davidson of Eaton Rapids, loving husband, father, and grandfather, passed away October 12, 2023, at the age of 88. Linton was born in Eaton Rapids on February 25, 1935, the son of John and Helen (Fernsler) Davidson. Linton was known by everyone he knew for his kindness and sense of humor. To know him was to love him.

Linton graduated from Eaton Rapids High School in 1953 and then went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in business from Hillsdale College in 1957. After college, he served in the U.S. Army as a radio operator stationed in France. He returned to Eaton Rapids in 1960, where he eventually became the third-generation owner of his family’s business, Davidson’s Woolen Mills. The Woolen Mills became Davidson’s Old Mill Yarn after a devastating fire in 1969, and Linton’s wife, kids and grandkids worked alongside him over the following decades. A pillar of the community, Linton served as President of the Eaton Rapids School Board and was involved in many local organizations, such as the Eaton Rapids Downtown Development Authority, the Explorer Scouts, the Eaton Rapids bowling league, and the Eaton Rapids Kiwanis (Special Olympics and 4th of July BBQ), of which he was a member for 53 years. He was also an amateur historian and provided many exhibits with the Eaton Rapids Area Historical Society.

Linton is survived by the love of his life to whom he was married for 62 years, Arlene (Coats) Davidson; children, Eric (Julie) Davidson of Florida, Heather (Marty) Williamson of Eaton Rapids, and Todd (Renae) Davidson of Eaton Rapids; grandchildren, Leanne Slaughter, Jordan (Victor Hill) Sabolish, Nicolas Davidson, Victoria Davidson, Brittany (Zach) DeWindt, and Andrew Davidson; great-grandchildren, Arlo Slaughter, Oliver Hill, and Christian DeWindt; brother, James (Janet) Davidson; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, John F. Davidson.

Linton’s family expresses their gratitude to Island City Assisted Living in Eaton Rapids for their thoughtful and loving care. In honor of Linton, you can start your own Sunday night family popcorn tradition, starting at 6:36 sharp. (Unless you need more time, in which case 6:37 is acceptable).

A private graveside service will be held at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to the Eaton Rapids Education Foundation or the Alzheimer’s Association in loving memory of Linton Ray Davidson. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.