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Max W. Sampsel

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Funeral Services:

Max W. Sampsel, a devoted family man, died on Monday February 6, 2023. Max 74, of Charlotte, was born on December 25, 1948, at the family home in Charlotte, the son of Lloyd and Viola (Hall) Sampsel. In 1966 Max married Nancy Woodbury and together they started their life. He worked as a machinist for Masterbuilt Products in Olivet where he retired in 2011. He loved anything with an engine; working on cars, riding motorcycles, and 4x4ing on the sand dunes and trails in Grayling. His other hobbies were deer hunting, camping, and helping anyone in need. His biggest enjoyment in life was his family especially his grandchildren.
Max is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Nancy; children, Anna (Luke) Hanson, Barbara (Mark) Wenger, Chad (Cheryl Norris) Sampsel; grandchildren, Ashley (Brian) Storh, Harry Osenbaugh Jr., Destiny (Slaid) Mead, Luke Hanson Jr., Bethany Williams, Sarah (Devaine Cowles) Wenger, Brandie (Andrew) Belen, Joshua (Amber Burhans) Wenger, Nathaniel Wenger, Brandon Sampsel, Raymond Sampsel, Brook, Britany, Dominik Sampsel, Jonah Proctor, Eddie Proctor, Maura Sampsel, Brianna Sampsel; great-grandchildren, Dakota, Lacey, Hanna, Wayne, Landan, Peyton, Kenny, Eddy, Trevor, Karlee, Malorie, Tyler, Denver, Paisley, Archer, Harper, Bentley, Shanell, Brandon Jr., and Arimina; siblings, Dennis (Sue) Lea, Pat Hynes, and Sue Thompson; cousins, Kathy Yeomans, and David Enquist. He was predeceased by his parents; infant grandson, Elijah Sampsel; and infant great-grandson, Brennin.
Friends are encouraged to support Max’s family by sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. The family is planning a Celebration of Life for the Spring of 2023. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Pray Funeral Home to assist the family with funeral expenses. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Carl William McKiddie

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Funeral Services:

Carl William McKiddie passed away at home Sunday, January 1, 2023. He was born in Sault Ste Marie on May 27, 1944 to William and Mary (Burt) McKiddie. He served in the United States Navy from 1963 to 1967. On September 10, 1983 he married Teresa Arrington.
Carl was an avid deer hunter and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, especially his granddaughters. He enjoyed attending the girls’ numerous sporting events over the years. He was a participating member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Aerie 3552, the Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge 2565 and the American Legion Post 0042.
Carl is survived by his wife of 39 years, Teresa McKiddie; daughter, Mandy Toney; granddaughters McKenna, McKayla and MacKenzie Toney; mother-in-law, Barbara Arrington; and sisters, Shirley (John) Stites, Jeanette (Larry) Brown, Dorothy (Ken) Kavanaugh, and Lori (Mike) Lane.
In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

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Steven Earl Bowles

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Steven Earl Bowles, a very talented mechanic that trained many others, died peacefully on February 8, 2023, at his home in Charlotte. Born in Lansing, Michigan on July 25, 1954, to Raymon and Betty (Evans) Bowles, he graduated from Eaton Rapids High School in 1972, and later earned his Associate Degree from LCC. He worked for AE Hoover from 1976 to 1991, and then Spartan Motors from 1991 until his retirement, but because of his knowledge and talent Spartan Motors called him back after retirement to train others. A Ham Radio enthusiast, he loved talking to others from very long distances away and engaged in healthy competitions among other radio enthusiasts for the longest distance reached and the most people they talked to. His handle was KF8HA. Among his other hobbies and interests, Steven enjoyed fishing (especially fly fishing), playing music with his band at the old skating rink in Charlotte, bowling with his wives Cynthia and Sally in local leagues and just for fun. Steve could fix almost anything, and his friends and family enjoyed his great smile, quick wit, and sense of humor.
Steve will be missed by his children, Christina Gatica, Justin Bowles; daughter-in-law, Celena Bowles; grandchildren, Zane and Bella; and siblings, David Bowles and Patricia Bowles. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Cynthia (Canfield) Bowles; second wife, Sally (Royston) Bowles; infant son, Terry Bowles; son, Johnathon Bowles; grandson, Briar; brother, Mike Bowles; and sister, Prudence Dingman.
Friends are encouraged to support Steven’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Wednesday, February 15, 5:30-7:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with a Memorial Service immediately following at 7:00 p.m. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to any charity of your choice. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Ezekial Pauls

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Funeral Services:

Ezekial (Zack) E. Pauls, age 27, of Seymour, MO (formerly of Charlotte, MI) died on Tuesday, January 31, 2023, at his residence.
Zack was born on May 19, 1995, the son of Melody and the late Benjamin Pauls. He was raised in Eaton Rapids for a short time and then Charlotte, and attended Charlotte Public Schools, graduating in 2014. Zack was a member of the Boy Scouts of America and earned Eagle Scout status. He received a varsity letter for football. He was an avid tabletop gamer and earned the wood-worker of the year award.
Zack was a unique and kind man. His heart filled to the brim with love, empathy, justice, and the need to make everyone smile. Every time he made any of us laugh, Zack did it with everything he had – as with all things he did in life. His creative mind, gentle soul, and urge to push everyone to be their best selves – these were just a few of the wonderful qualities that were Zack. Describing him doesn’t seem to do justice to how truly wonderful he was. He deserved to grow, to do everything he could to better the world for his fellow man, as well as sharing his beautiful creations and his truly amazing thoughts. He loved and was loved by so many. Wherever he is, I know he is smiling and mastering his battle strategies. Keep our battle brother in your thoughts. “Each new day is a victory.” “May humanity unite to right the tyranny of chaos.”
Zack is survived by his mother, Melody Pauls; sister, Anne Marie Pauls and brother-in-law, Alex Esch; grandparents, Roy and Penny Therrien, Judy Pauls, and Molly Harmon.
He was preceded in death by his father, Benjamin Pauls; and his grandfathers, Jeffery Harmon and Harlen Pauls.
A Memorial will be held on Saturday, February 11, 2023, from 2-4 p.m. in the lower half of the VFW Post 2406 facility, located at 695 Lansing Road, Charlotte.

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Dorothy Jones

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Funeral Services:

Dorothy Jones, age 93, of Bellevue, Michigan, passed away on Wednesday, January 18, 2023.
Dorothy was born in Detroit, Michigan on April 14, 1929, to James Vasil and Essie (Judd) Vasil. She graduated from Bellevue High School, class of 1947. She worked as a bookkeeper for Felpausch in Bellevue for 34 years, retiring in 1997.
Dorothy is survived by her children, Ron (Sue) Olmstead, David (Robin) Olmstead, and Jim (Laurie) Olmstead; ten grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and one nephew. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Essie Vasil; her husband, Ed Jones Sr.; her sister, JoAnn Hodges; and her daughter-in-law, Ann Olmstead.
A celebration of life will be held on April, 14, 2023 at 12:00 Noon at Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 205 N. Elizabeth St., Bellevue, Michigan 49021 with visitation starting at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Hillside Cemetery in Kalamo, Michigan.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to The AC Flower House or The Bellevue Fire Department.
Please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, sign the guest book, and leave messages for the family. For assistance with memorials please visit the funeral home.

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Katherine Marie Hoyt

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Funeral Services:

Katherine Marie Hoyt of Eaton Rapids was called Home on February 1, 2023, at the age of 64. Katherine was born in Lansing, MI, September 5, 1958, the daughter of Gerald and Beverly (Stockenauer) Pennell. She graduated from Everett High School in 1976. Katherine had numerous hobbies including rock collecting, canning, and going to garage sales. She enjoyed being outside doing all kinds of activities and taking care of her garden. The obvious joy in her life was spending time with her grandchildren.
Katherine is survived by her children, Josie (Heath) Mackey of Hanover, Donald (Jennifer) Hoyt III of Eaton Rapids, Jerry Hoyt of Eaton Rapids, Sandra Sturis of Grand Rapids; grandchildren, Aaron and Chandler Mackey, Donald IV, Jacob, Allison, Maxton and Tobin Hoyt, Max Sturis; sisters, Vickie (Donald) Gross of Lansing, Karen (John) Crawford of Lansing; several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Donald Hoyt II.
A Rosary and prayers will begin at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, February 11, 2023, at the Tompkins Township Hall, 9999 Tompkins Rd., Rives Junction, MI 49277. with a luncheon and fellowship following at 2:00 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel. To leave condolences for the family, please visit our website, www.millsfuneral.com.

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Ella Mae Evert

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Funeral Services:

Carl V. Reck Jewelry lost their biggest customer on January 26, 2023. Ella Mae Evert was born February 18, 1937, in Charlotte, MI to Frank and June (Glover) Aseltine. Ella was a Clerk for the State of Michigan Department of Social Services for 25 years, retiring in 1997, and the first ever clerk to receive the state Employee of the Year award. Ella married Paul Evert in December of 1961, and together they raised their family with lots of adventures including camping trips, hunting for Petoskey and Pudding Stones, and visiting nearly every state park in Michigan. With an extreme passion for beautiful things, Ella loved tending her flower gardens and provided her church with beautiful floral arrangements for 22 years. She also loved her jewelry and crocheting beautiful afghans to share with friends and family. With a big heart, she also enjoyed her pets that became her children after her children were grown, including her beloved dog, Bingo, and cat, Pepper.
Ella is survived by her children, Frank (Rae Jane) Cortright, and Nina Evert; little brother, Allen (Anne) Aseltine; and dear friends Carol (Scott) Pruden. She was predeceased by her husband, Paul Evert; her parents; sisters, Irene VanLiew and Anna Dickinson; and brothers, Elmer, Lynn, John, Cecil, and Donnie.
Friends are encouraged to support Ella’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Funeral services were held Wednesday, February 1, 1:00 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Pastor Tim Potter officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Pawsabilities Rescue or Elara Caring Hospice. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Randy Gene Whitcomb

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Funeral Services:

Randy Gene Whitcomb, age 67, of Bellevue, Michigan, passed away on Friday, January 20, 2023, with family by his side in the comfort of his home.
Randy was born in Owosso, Michigan on April 15, 1955, to George Sr. and Shirley (Springs) Whitcomb. He grew up in Bellevue and worked on the family farm from a young age. Randy was known to be a character during his teenage years; just ask one of his six siblings. In 1973 Randy graduated from Bellevue High School and in 1975 he married his loving wife Deborah Sue (Clift) and they shared 48 wonderful years together raising their three children in their Bellevue home.
Randy was employed by Rock Tenn Company in Battle Creek, Michigan for 38 years (1974-2012). He served 19 years as a volunteer firefighter with the Bellevue Community Fire Department and was a member of the Bellevue Conservation Club over the years.
Randy enjoyed snow plowing the neighborhood on his quad at 5 a.m., mowing lawns on his John Deere tractor, hunting, fishing, boating, playing cards and golfing with family and friends in his leisure time. He will be dearly missed by all.
Randy is survived by his loving wife, Deborah; his children, Garett (Char) Whitcomb and Amy (Phil) Rigelman; his grandchildren, Michael (Tawni) Makley, Torey (Sarah) Makley, Chandler (Lauren) Adams, Levi Rigelman and Andrew Rigelman; his five great grandchildren; his siblings, Gary (Evelyn) Whitcomb, Peggy (John) Masters, Ron Whitcomb, Dan (Jayne) Whitcomb; sister-in-law Brenda (Andy) Harrison; and many nieces and nephews.
Randy was preceded in death by his parents, George Sr. and Shirley Whitcomb; his son, Brian Clyde Whitcomb; his brother, George Jr. Whitcomb; his sister, Sue Whitcomb; his niece, Janet Whitcomb; his in-laws, Clyde and Letha Clift; his sister-in-law, Lisa Clift; and his great nephew, Ford Andrew Flower.
Cremation has taken place and a memorial service to celebrate Randy’s life will be held in the spring.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Bellevue Fireman’s Fund (115 E. Jackson St., Bellevue, MI 49201).
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Daniels Funeral Home-Nashville conveniently located at 9200 E M-79 Nashville, MI. For further details please visit our website at danielsfuneralhome.net.

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Fern L. Burkett-Starr

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Fern L. Burkett-Starr, 90, of Charlotte, formerly of Bellevue, died January 30, 2023, in Lansing. She was born June 26, 1932, to Mark and Alta (Moore) Berry of Bellevue, Mich. She received her GED from Bellevue High School in 1972. Fern farmed most of her life raising feeder pigs. She also worked part-time at the dime store in Bellevue and the Gambles store in Charlotte. She volunteered at Hayes Green Beach Hospital for over 15 years.
Fern married Robert C. Burkett on September 3, 1949, and they were together for 52 years. She then married Gerald Starr on May 5, 2005, and they were together for 14 years.
Fern is survived by her children: Glen Burkett of Bellevue, Helen (Gary) Vedder of Charlotte, Kenneth (Debby) Burkett of Bellevue, David (Barbara) Burkett of Bellevue, Sally (David) Bivens of Bellevue, and Mary (Jeff) McKillop of Bellevue; her sister, Katherine Anderson of Battle Creek; her step-children: Dennis (Karen) Starr of Charlotte, Kathy (Jim) Pion of Olivet, Tim (Sherry) Starr of Charlotte, Mark (Cheryl) Starr of Charlotte, Karen Southward of Charlotte, Daniel (JoAnn) Starr of Adrian, Chris (Shelly) Starr of Charlotte, Mary (Doug) Campbell of Olivet, and Jimmy (Lisa) Starr of Eaton Rapids; 14 grandchildren, and 41 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by Robert C. Burkett; Gerald J. Starr; siblings: James Berry, Frank (Stub) Berry, Frances Root, Helen Manning, Carol Ann Newberry, Evelyn Parker Glassner, Mable VanOrman; daughter-in-law, Elberta Burkett; grandson, Kevin Burkett; granddaughter, Angela Burkett; great-grandsons, Evan Burkett and Liam Abbott; and step-son-in-law, Tony Southward.
Visitation was Friday, February 3, 2023, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Kempf Family Funeral Home, located at 723 US HWY 27 North, Marshall, MI 49068. Visitation will also take place from noon to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 4, 2023, with the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery in Kalamo Township.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Bellevue Fireman’s Fund or the American Cancer Society.

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Alain K. Davis

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Funeral Services:

Alain K. Davis, a passionate mother and wife, caring, loving, supportive and fiercely loyal, left us on Thursday, January 26, 2023.  The beloved wife and partner of Colin Davis II and mother of Blake Duane, Marleigh Alain and her unofficial son, William Moore, departed this world and left us in pain and shock to mourn and ask why.
The daughter of Larry and Kay Serven, Alain was born in Battle Creek, Michigan on November 8, 1976.  She leaves behind her sister and brother-in-law, Kristina and Christopher Langmaack; nephew, Cameron and his wife, Skyler Langmaack; niece, Kirsten Langmaack with her partner, Martin Fabrik; as well as her father and mother-in-law, Colin and Nancy Davis; sister-in-law, Angela Joslyn; her extended family of aunts, uncles and cousins plus her dog and sidekick, Ruger.
Those left behind are struggling to understand this sudden and tragic loss, but all recognize she truly was one of the good ones. Ever fearless, she was up for whatever activities that included her husband and kids, family, and of course her friends.  For Alain everyone was her friend, and she would lead, guide and persuade everyone to join in. If in doubt, she could be very clear on everyone’s role and her expectations of them.  She was well known for her parties and made sure everyone’s birthday was their special holiday.  Her birthday was a day to celebrate as her dad always made her favorite meal – fried bologna and homemade french fries.  Everyone enjoyed her New Year’s parties with games- even if they had to put their faces in whipped cream to find the bubble gum then be the first to blow a bubble and whomever got the honor of shooting her grandpa’s gun at midnight! Her seafood boils were a favorite, where she would prepare the food and she and Colin would spill it out on a long table for everyone to enjoy.  She made sure her family was celebrated and knew how much she loved them on Valentine’s, St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, 4th of July at Silver Lake Dunes, and every other holiday of the year. She was particularly angry though that her “Black Friday” and 24 hours (or more) of straight Christmas shopping with her sister Kris and others was ruined by stores closing and the economy. Yes, she did take that personally as that was one of her pleasures and she wanted to continue that tradition. Traditions were very important to her.  If you were fortunate enough to have her in your life you know what a void, she leaves behind. For her family, especially Colin and the kids along with special friends, Steve and Kaci, Cam and Amanda, BJ and Katie, Mike and Mallory, Chad, Scot, Chuckie and Jason and so many more, every day was better with her in it.  She loved you all with a passion that only Alain could share.  To say she embraced life fully doesn’t say it all and we know her greatest regret is leaving Colin, Blake, Marleigh and William whom she loved so deeply. Everything she did she poured her entire self into, and she worked hard so that each one around her would know how much she loved them; her foremost thought was to be sure that her family was on the right path.  It would be her expectation that everyone continues that work for her.  Col is devastated but with the love, support and help of family and their many friends, he will continue her work.
Soar high Lanie, we know you are watching over us!
“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal.”
You are encouraged to support the family by attending services or sharing memories of Alain on her tribute page at www.PrayFuneral.com. Funeral services were Thursday, February 2, 11:00 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home with Laura Cooper officiating. 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 Alain’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired the family suggests memorial contributions to Elle’s Place. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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