2022 Memorials

He graduated from Southeaster High School in Detroit, Manchester College in Indiana and Bethany Seminary in Chicago. On May 29, 1949 he married Wilma Jones at Central Methodist Church in Detroit. Joseph and Wilma raised 4 children and have celebrated over 72 years of marriage together.

During his time as a Methodist Pastor, Joseph served 5 churches in Michigan plus 3 churches when he was a seminary student. In addition to being a Pastor, Joseph served as Vice President of the Marysville School Board, secretary of Kiwanis, and President of the Lions Club. He later retired in 1985 and worked at a local funeral home for 13 years. In 1999 Joseph and Wilma moved to Otterbein Portage Valley Retirement Community.

In addition to his wife Wilma, Joseph is survived by his children: Barbara (Kim) Riester of PA, Marcia Rapp of MI, Richard (Phyllis) Ablett of OK, Barry Ablett of MI, and 4 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, twin brother William, brother, Kenneth Ablett sisters: Connie and Betty and grandson, Jason.

Joseph H. Ablett served: 1950 Minooka IL; 1952 Deer Park MD; 1956 Saginaw: Kochville; 1963 Oscoda; 1969 Escanaba; 1971 Marysville; 1980 Auburn; 1985 Retired. Died February 2, 2022. 

Graduate of Superior Central HS with Office Practice Degree. Married to John Leon Andrews June 11, 1949, in Superior, Wisc. As wife of United Methodist pastor, she was active in choir, Sunday School and United Methodist Women. Community activities included Women's Chorus, League of Women Voters, hospital volunteer and elementary school tutor. She was active at Clark Retirement Community on Resident Council Trustees and President of Volunteers. Arlene worked as Office Manager, Treasurer and Bookkeeper at a variety of businesses throughout the years. Arlene was a devoted wife, mother and extraordinary role model. She was also fantastic cook passing on her Italian heritage to her family. Arlene was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 70 years J. Leon Andrews. She is survived by by her 4 sons John Richard Andrews, Allan Gene Andrews, Paul Leon Andrews and James Brian Andrews and 9 grandchildren Jeremy, Cole, Zachary, Curtis, Michael, Steven, Hannah, Audrey and Julia and 4 great grandchildren Reece, Cam, Jocelyn and Cedric and two sisters Connie Staven, Kathy Katzmark and one brother Bob Rich.

where she grew up in a family of civil servants, teachers, and librarians. A gifted student, musician, and athlete, she was graduated valedictorian of the DeVilbiss High School class of 1956 and then earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Michigan. She married her college sweetheart, Ronald D. Gregg, and taught school in Cambridge, MA and Dundee, MI while he began his legal career. The couple finally settled in Ann Arbor for several years raising their children, David and Sara, until separated by divorce in 1979.

Martha began her second phase of adulthood heeding the call to ministry. She was trained at United Theological Seminary in Dayton, OH and was ordained as an elder in the United Methodist Church in 1987. She served churches in Ann Arbor, Wayne, Britton, and Hudson, MI. While in Britton, she wed her second husband, Ben Ball. They shared a passion for ministry and became missionaries at the Henderson Settlement in eastern Kentucky.

Martha lived a life of adventure and service. She traveled widely, including multiple visits to Europe and Canada as well as to Haiti, Mexico, Kenya, Israel, and Belize. She was a great lover of music, poetry, and art. But her deepest passion was the service of the Church. A true Methodist, she worked constantly under the conviction that human beings are beloved of God and capable of becoming more than they currently are. She was a lifelong advocate for social justice, racial reconciliation, and empowerment for the marginalized. And as part of the first large wave of women in ordained ministry, she was a mentor and role model for many other women likewise called to serve.

Martha is survived by her son David Gregg, her daughter Sara (Jim) Barnes, her grandsons Colin, Alex, & Scott Barnes, her nieces Vicky Geha and Janie Driscoll, her nephews Rick Haffner and John Granger, many great-nieces and -nephews, and her brother-in-law Bill Granger.

Rev. Ball served: 1984 Wayne: First (assoc); 1985 Britton: Grace; 1991 Henderson Settlement, Kentucky District, Red Bird Missionary Conf; 1993 Hudson: First (LTFT ½); 1996 Oneida: First, Oneida TN; 1997 leave of absence; 2002 Retired. Died June 3, 2021. 

 

Helen married Rev. Birt Beers, Retired Elder, in 1956, and they were married for 54 years before his passing on May 27, 2012. She then married Gregory Preston on November 15, 2014, and he preceded her in death on April 6, 2019.

Helen graduated from Redondo Union High School in Redondo Beach, CA, and then Long Beach Community College. She earned her associate degree in Interior Design and worked as an independent designer and decorator, eventually owning her own business, “Happy Hang-Ups.”

Helen was a social butterfly and very outgoing. She attended United Methodist Church of the Dunes and was a faithful follower of the Lord. She was very active in her church, teaching Bible School to her church’s youth, and leading the Sunday Ladies Circle for many years. Helen was also an avid reader and knitter who hand-knitted many hats for people over the years. She loved helping her community, using her knitting and baking skills to help others. Helen was a remarkable baker. One time, she sold enough loaves of her home-made bread to help pay for a new roof on the Lake Louise Christian Community Retreat Center! Her life and legacy will be remembered by many for years to come.

Helen is lovingly remembered and missed by her daughter, Lori (Steve) Gillespie of Downingtown, PA; son-in-law, Jon Parlow; her two beloved grandchildren, Turner Shane Gillespie (Sara Dittrich), and Troy Andrew Gillespie; and her sister-in-law, Bonnie Partridge.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Sara Jane Parlow in February of 2018; as well as her brother, Gary Da son Partridge.  

Left to laugh and cry over his memory are his loving wife of 61 years, Rev. Jane A. Glidden Berquist; his perfect daughters, Jill Berquist (Arnold Lynn Wallace) and Lynne Berquist Meek (Steve); four wonderful grandchildren, Joy Brady (Captain Ryan), Melissa Meek, Joseph Meek, and Gracie Wallace; many cousins, brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and greats, and scores of loving, beautiful friends.

George was born on August 22, 1936, in Detroit, Michigan, to Bob and Eleanore Berquist. He was baptized as an infant by his grandfather, the Rev. Thure Jacobson, in the Detroit Evangelical Covenant Church. As a boy, he enjoyed playing ice hockey in his back yard and football at Mumford High School, studying, playing in the jazz band, and being in the woods and rivers at Nissokone YMCA Camp in Oscoda, Michigan, where he lived every summer from the age of 8. At Nissokone, he learned to listen for God. He grew to be a counselor and then waterfront director, and he made life-long friends with other campers. He also had beautiful friendships with the young people he grew up with at the Covenant Church, where he developed a strong commitment to his faith. His faith and his sense of humor were further developed by time spent with his two best buddies: his Grampa Berquist and his dad.

George attended North Park College in Chicago, Illinois, before transferring to the University of Michigan and then attending the U of M College of Dentistry. In 1958, he met a beautiful waitress and college student by Camp, at the Wabun Inn on Lake Huron. They fell in love, and were married in 1960.

Upon graduating from dental school, George joined the United States Army, and he served as an army dentist in Fort Dix, New Jersey, where their first daughter, Jill, was born. When they moved home to Michigan, he set up practice in Livonia, Michigan. His patient load quickly filled with families from the Covenant, and later from the United Methodist Church. He practiced dentistry for 40 years, was known for his punctuality, gentle technique, and story telling, and was proud to keep the same staff of employees for almost all of those 40 years. Some time after they returned to Michigan, his second daughter, Lynnie, was born. She is much, much younger than Jill. George was first and foremost a family man, and his wife and daughters knew without doubt that they were loved unconditionally. He taught his daughters and their friends to swim, race sailboats, prune roses, raise a duck, ride a bike, putt, identify Michigan trees and birds, and eat Swedish meatballs. When the girls were in middle school, the entire family learned to downhill snow ski together, and he patiently drove the Sea Ray on Lake Charlevoix for kids learning to waterski. They enjoyed much time together at Portage Lake Bible Camp, Pontiac Yacht Club, and The Landings at Boyne City. The family had fun, fun, fun together.

In 1971, the family joined First United Methodist Church of Northville, Michigan. George was a dynamic and effective leader on local, district, and conference boards and agencies. He lead Northville FUMC through two major building projects, and was instrumental in planting Camp Kinawind, a United Methodist wilderness camp in upper Michigan. He and Jane started Youth Club at Northville First, and they were youth leaders there for several decades. Hundreds of young people called them “Ma” and “Boomer.” When Jane went back to school, to seminary, he strongly encouraged and supported her. He was immensely proud of her when she was ordained a Deacon, and always bragged that she was his favorite preacher. When she retired, they made their home with the family of First United Methodist Church of Troy, where he continued to teach Bible studies. In every church, and with every new appointment, the pastor was his best friend.

When their four grandchildren were born, George was absolutely delighted in them, spending hours with them at zoos, Michigan and Florida beaches, the ice-skating rink, parks, streams, church, the woods, and the family dinner table. “Gicka,” or “Papa,” loved to play silly telephone games and prank his grandchildren, and his funny phrases and jokes will be part of their lives forever. He and Jane enjoyed quiet times together on Lake Charlevoix, on the banks of the Au Sable River, and in morning devotions. They often sat in silence and then shared favorite memories of their lives together.

Of course, George was a fly fisher. He usually fished barbless out of respect for the trout, and developed the method of catch, kiss, and release. He also loved golfing, sailing, walking in the woods, skiing, bird watching, gardening, playing hockey and football in the church parking lot with kids, canoeing, checkers and family card games, and swimming. He had an extensive LP collection and a very loud stereo system, and loved to listen to orchestral music, The Beatles, and jazz. He loved dogs, especially beagles, boxers, and Norwegian Elkhounds, and in retirement, he enjoyed the love of two cats. His interests took him to great places: Upper Michigan, Isle Royale, Alaska, Canada, Montana, Florida, and Costa Rica. He was often joined on these trips by Jane, his daughters and grandkids, and his best friends from Nissokone days, Cuffer and Turtle.

George was a voracious reader with an extensive library in history, the classics, wildlife, ancient cultures, and theology. His favorite magazine subscription was Biblical Archaeology Review. Studying was his life-long habit, and he spent hours researching and preparing for the youth and adult Bible Studies he taught all his life. He loved talking with his family about new discoveries in Biblical history and exegetical Bible study. He stayed on top of justice issues and taught a social gospel. He never stopped learning, growing, and loving. His faith was unshakeable.

We, George's family and friends, can never thank God enough for the love and life of this wonderful man, but we will continue to serve Christ and humanity in the ways he taught us. Thanks be to God. 

On August 30, 1959, she married Rev. James Braid, he preceded her in death on May 21, 2012.

Judy graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in education while also performing in the UofM band. She was a very proud Alumni cheering for the maize and blue especially when it came time to play that team down south. She was very active in the community playing piano for the school musicals at both Sanford High School and Milford High School. She was always active in the church choir, involved in the United Methodist Women’s Group, and enjoyed playing piano organ duets at church. She loved music and musicals having seen many of the major Broadway shows. Even near the end she was playing piano for the residents and workers at Sanctuary at the Oaks.

She is survived by two children: Lynne (Steve) Morgan of Linden, and Mike (Tera) Braid of Twin Lake, MI; two granddaughters, Paige (Jacob) Pattenaude, and Brittany (Jason) VandeVelde; three great-grandsons: Braxton, Briggs, and Malachi. She is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Carolyn (Hal) Flynn, and Marilyn (Irv) Wilbur. 

 

Much like Queen Esther in the Bible, Esther was sent to live with family to raise and care for her. But like Queen Esther, God had an incredible plan for her, and He would prove faithful.

Esther was born in Gaines, MI and attended Unionville high school. After graduating, she set off for CEI, Christian Evangelical Institute, in Chicago, IL. It is there that she met the love of her life, Dale Brown. They were married on August 11th, 1951, and were blessed with 63 years of marriage, 2 children, 3 grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren. They pledged their lives to the Lord and quickly entered full time ministry together after their wedding.

Esther held many positions through the years, touching thousands of lives. She was passionate about telling others about Jesus, leading mission trips around the world, fighting hunger, leading and raising enormous amounts at fundraisers for missions and building projects. Her passion was contagious! When she wasn’t raising awareness for the hurting and the lost around the world, she was busy leading and organizing small groups and tending to the many needs of the local church and community, serving in countless ways.

In nearly every church Dale and Esther ministered at, their fingerprints can be found. Dale and Esther headed up many expansion and remodeling projects for the churches they served. Dale was an extremely gifted carpenter and craftsman, as well as architect. Esther was always his right hand, and they were an incredible team! They also built and designed their cottage together, and later their retirement home. They shared their gifts, knowledge, and skill with their children, Ken and Kathy, and helped each with homes of their own, as well as sharing in their passion for the Lord, and serving in ministry.

If you didn’t find Esther at church, you could find her out in the gardens hard at work. Esther loved gardening and was a Master gardener. She helped and blessed many with her knowledge and love for all things beautiful.

Another love of Esther’s was her family and hosting beautiful family gatherings. She is famous for her desserts and baked goods. We always knew we would find a pan of fresh scotch-a-roos at each visit, a family favorite!

Esther was fiercely independent, strong willed, and organized. A gift used for such a time as this, to bring glory to God. We celebrate Esther’s life, we thank God for her, and we rejoice in the reunification with Dale, baby Bobby, her father, and so many more. We hold onto our last moments together with Esther here on this earth as we worshipped together and sang a blessing over each other. The Lord bless you, and keep you, make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you, the Lord turn his face towards you, and give you peace. Amen!  

Muskegon Heights Public Schools where he was a member of the Jazz, Marching, and Concert bands which was the beginning of his lifelong passion for music.

After graduating from Muskegon Heights High School in 1949, James enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving with distinction receiving and an honorable discharge in, 1954.

James married the love of his life, Theresa, on Saturday, August 25, 1956, (65 years).  This union was blessed with 3 daughters Theresa (Marie), Donna and Janet.

James answered the call to the ministry in 1957, moving to Ohio where he attended Wilberforce University where he graduated with honors in 1960.

James was the first African American student, and graduate, of the inaugural class of the Methodist Theological School of Ohio “METHESCO” (MTSO), located in Delaware, OH, receiving his MDiv.

His formal Ministry began in 1963 in the Lexington Conference, in Maysville, Kentucky (Scott).  James would go on the serve in the Michigan Conference at churches in Grand Rapids (St. Paul, Church of the Redeemer) Detroit (Central, Conant Ave), Flint (Court Street), Lansing (Potter Park) and Ann Arbor (Dixboro) until his retirement in 1998. He also served as the first African American District Superintendent (Detroit West), and as Member of Program staff (West Michigan).

James was an active member of the Black Methodists for Church Renewal he and a strong supporter of women in the ministry.

He leaves his wife Theresa, and their daughters, grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.  

He was laid to rest in a private ceremony at the Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly, MI. A virtual memorial service was held for family members and friends on December 18, 2021. Funeral arrangements were made by Cranes Funeral Home, Romulus, Michigan.

James Cochran served: 1963 Lexington Conf: Scott Methodist, Maysville, KY; 1963 Trans. to West MI Conference, Grand Rapids: St. Paul (Co-Pastor); 1965 Grand Rapids: Church of the Redeemer; 1968 Trans. to Detroit Confernce, Detroit: Central (assoc.); 1970 Detroit West District Superintendent; 1976 school; 1980 Trans. to West MI Conference, Conference Staff: Program Coordinator; 1986 Flint: Court St. (assoc.); 1987 Transfer. to Detroit Conference; 1988 Detroit: Conant Avenue; 1992 Dixboro; 1998 Retired. Died November 18, 2021.

Doug was preceded in death by his daughter Mary Jo Cowdin (2004) and his sisters Leota Keenan, Delora Ashurst, Margaret Wray, and Joyce Marlow. He is survived by his wife of 64 years Rev. Charlotte Rhodes from Lake Orion, MI; children Chris (s. Martha) (Chesterfied, MI) and Mark (Colorado Springs, CO); grandchildren Christian Keller (s. Patrick), Ross Romeo (s. Elizabeth), Andie Roesner (s. Andrew), Nathan Cowdin, Michael Cowdin, Elizabeth Cowdin, Bennet Cowdin, and Ryan Cowdin; great-grandchildren Annemarie Keller, Charlotte Keller, Joe Romeo, and Hannah Romeo; siblings Pauline Roellig and Mary Lou Rhodes; and many nieces and nephews.

Doug was a graduate of Lake Orion High School (1951) and GMC Truck trade school (1955). He served 2 years in the US Army and was employed for over 45 years as a tool maker at GMC Truck. Doug lived in Oakland County, MI for most of his life, moved to Port Huron, MI in 1997, and Florida in 2005. He enjoyed 25 years as a middle and high school football referee and baseball/softball umpire. He was a member of the United Methodist Men, DeMolay, Masonic Order, and Square Lake Cemetery Association; and a lifelong, active member of the United Methodist Church.

Doug will be remembered for his love of God, family, friends, coworkers, gardening, and every dog he saw, and his playful spirit and humor.

There were many stories told over the years of the adventures of living in a big loving family.

She married Forest Crum August 1, 1943 in the flower garden at her home. He was the love of her life for 68 years before his death in 2012. Grace and Forest accepted the call of God to preach the Good News of Jesus to others in 1950. She brought love, kindness, and dignity to nine parsonages during the ministry years. Her quick wit and gentle nature, deep and confident faith was infectious, and many are those who caught her spirit. Grace loved life and never had a bad word to say about anyone. She liked to garden, fish, sew, and quilt. Over her lifetime she canned or froze hundreds of vegetables, fruits, and soups. She loved reading and for several years served as Librarian at Custer High School and Scottville Public Library.

Those left to cherish her memory are her children Karen (Crum) Doubblestein (William), Mark Crum, Michael Crum; sister, Julie (Wright) Teuscher of Arizona; 13 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Deb was born on January 15, 1955, in Mt. Pleasant, daughter of Kenneth and Shirley (McLachlin) Weston. She graduated from Mt. Pleasant High School and received her bachelor's from Central Michigan University. Deb married Pastor William Foldesi on December 10, 1976. Deb worked for Mt. Pleasant Community Mental Health for many years. She was very active with the Coomer United Methodist Church, playing piano at church. She enjoyed antiques, listening to music, and taking care of her cats.

Deb is survived by her son, Andy Foldesi of Ann Arbor; and sister, Denise Noyes of Shepherd.

Deborah was preceded in death by her husband, Pastor Bill in 2007; parents; brother, Dale Weston; sister, Donna Schaefer.  

 

She enjoyed leading Celebrating Marriage Weekend Retreats as her ministry and teaching her gift of painting. She is survived by Children-Randall (Vicki) Disbrow of Gaines, MI; Richard Disbrow of Grand Rapids, Michigan; Lori Pollitz of Mason, Michigan; Phillip (Cheryl) Gamber of Mason Michigan; Dan (Jackie) Gamber of Atlanta, Georgia and 4 Great Grandchildren. Joanne is preceded in death by both Parents-F. Reid Bailey and Helen Rice Bailey and Husband-Leonard William Gamber.  

Lois graduated from Negaunee High School in 1965 and graduated from Adrian College in 1969 with a Teaching degree and a minor in Pipe Organ. She was very active in the United Methodist Church her whole life, especially in the United Methodist Women. She was also a church organist for many years. She was currently a member of the Chesterton United Methodist Church. In her free time, she loved to sew and quilt. 

She and Bruce served several churches in central Michigan, including Beaverton/Dale, Poseyville, Sanford and Ishpeming Wesley in the UP. She lived in Traverse City, MI, Claire, MI, Saginaw, MI, Beaverton, MI, Midland, MI, Sanford, MI, and Ishpeming, MI, prior to moving to Chesterton, IN to live with her brother and his wife in 2014.

Lois was predeceased by her husband, Rev. Bruce C. Hatch (deceased 2001), parents, Vemer (deceased 2002) and Marian Norell (deceased 2003), and her sister, Lynn A. Norell (deceased 2009).

She is survived by her son, Kevin Hatch of Hagerstown, MD; granddaughter, Aylah Hatch of Hagerstown, MD; grandson, Otis Hatch of Hagerstown, MD; her brother, Roy Norell (Darlene) of Chesterton, IN; and brother-in-law, Paul Hatch (Jenny) of Minnesota.

Marybelle was born on December 3rd, 1947 to Lon and Greta Milburn in Terre Haute, Indiana. After Marybelle graduated from State High School of Terre Haute in 1965, she pursued a degree in education at Indiana State University, graduating in 1968.

Marybelle married Michael Haynes in Terre Haute, Indiana in 1968.  They had two children, Angela Coleman of Davidson, North Carolina, and Michael (Mitch) Haynes of Portland, Oregon.

Marybelle was a high school and adult education teacher in the greater Flint, Michigan area until before eventually taking a full-time role within Hope United Methodist Church of Flint Township.  She was appointed as a Licensed Local Pastor to the Oregon United Methodist Church of Columbiaville, Michigan in 2006 as well as Elba United Methodist Church of Lapeer, Michigan in 2016.  Marybelle was passionate about her service to the church and enjoyed building a sense of goodwill and community with those that she met along her life’s journey.

Marybelle retired from the ministry in 2018 and enjoyed continuing lead prayer groups, book clubs, play games and visit with her church community. She relocated to North Carolina in 2020.

Marybelle was preceded in death by her husband Michael, and her parents Lon and Greta. She is survived by her daughter, Angela and her husband Dennis with their children Kali, Grace, and Thomas.  Her son Mitch and his wife Michelle and their children Aidan, Evan, and Sydney. She is also survived by her brother Lon and his wife Pam and Lon’s sons Ryan and Kurt.

  

She grew up on the Grand Prairie of Arkansas on a farm near Stuttgart. Her first job was as a soda jerk at a local Drug Store where she later helped fill prescriptions. After graduating from high school, she attended business college in Little Rock and then worked as a secretary at the Board of Education in Dewitt, Arkansas until her marriage in December 1948 to Joseph Jessup. They moved to Detroit, Michigan where she remained the rest of her life.

Gloria, who was called ‘Glory’ by her father, liked flowers, working in the yard, playing the piano or organ and being with family. In her younger years, she volunteered at her daughters’ schools, and ran the church nursery and vacation bible school. She was active in the United Methodist Women in leadership roles at the local, district and conference levels for many years including the Nominating Committee as well as President of the Detroit West District UMW from 2003 to 2006. She was a certified Lay Speaker in the United Methodist Church, and volunteered at Joy Southfield Health Clinic (a ministry of Second Grace UMC). She was a member of Ford Memorial UMC in Detroit for 50 years, then Warren Valley UMC of Dearborn Heights and finally Good Shepherd UMC of Dearborn. Visiting the sick and dying and fighting for justice for voiceless victims were also passions of hers. Gloria was not tall in stature, but she was a strong and faithful servant of God.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Del Bueker, brothers Frank Bueker Jr. and Joe Bueker, sister Betty Wilson and husband Joseph Jessup. She is survived, and will be greatly missed, by her 5 daughters: Becky (Clark) Warnock, Kay (Paul) Van Nest, Janet Jessup, Sally (Larry) Pepper, and Sherri (Abbas) Jessup, as well as 19 grandchildren, 32 great grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and others, like Thelma Marshall who she loved like family. 

 

R

She first sang a solo in church at the age of 5. She met her future husband Don Kraushaar while they were both singing the Messiah at Hill Auditorium in Ann Arbor. After graduating from UM in 1949, Doris went to NYC to continue voice lessons. She and Don were married in 1950 after he graduated from UM, and they resided in NYC for a time before returning to Ann Arbor. Don obtained his M.Div. from Garrett Seminary and he pastored local churches in Napoleon and Saline. Doris directed choirs in both churches, and she and Don served as co-deans at the Methodist Choir Camp at Lake Huron for several years. While Don transitioned to his role at the Board of Global Ministries, Hospitals and Homes Division, Doris taught vocal music at Saline Area Schools. She taught for 19 years before retiring in 1986. Doris continued to use her voice to praise the Lord as she sang in the choir at FUMC in Ann Arbor for many years. When she moved to the Kalamazoo area to be near family, she sang in the choir at her senior living facility. She was mouthing the words to her favorite hymns once she became too weak to sing in the last few days of her life. Doris was predeceased by her husband Donald in 2011. She is survived by her daughter Carol (Bob) Snyder, sons Kevin (Karen) Kraushaar and Ned Kraushaar, three grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren.

She was born on August 13, 1942.

Judy was raised in Lake Odessa, MI with her older siblings, Burwayne and Janet. She often got into trouble for talking in class and remained an enthusiastic conversationalist throughout her life.

Judy was also voraciously curious and had a difficult time choosing which career path she wanted to take. True to form, she chose several over the years. She got her kindergarten teaching certificate by taking college courses at her alma mater, Lakewood High School. She later obtained a real estate license.

Later in life, Judy became a certified EMT and joined the Lake Odessa emergency response team. She could not watch scary movies, because they gave her nightmares, but she was compelled by the workings of the human body. Assisting with the patching up the injuries she encountered as an EMT not only didn’t bother her but filled her with wonder. She was fascinated with physiology.

Regarding movies, Judy was famous in the family for sleeping through them in the theater, especially Star Wars, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and Rocky.

She also worked for the David Burnett & John P. Hemming optometry practice in Lake Odessa, then later in Grand Ledge, MI processing insurance claims and record keeping. She eventually retired from this position in the early aughts.

Most of her friends and acquaintances will remember her, too, as an energetic and buoyant volunteer. As her health became worse and mobility near impossible, her greatest fear was being of no use. When she could no longer help others, she decided her song had been sung and she left on her own terms in her favorite chair, just as she wanted.

Judy married John D. Henry in 1962 and they later divorced in 1983. John (Arlene) passed away in 2019 in Wayland, MI.

Judy had three children with John and is survived by her oldest son, Wesley D. Henry, who is currently living in Philadelphia but remains a loyal Michigander.

She was preceded in death by her second youngest son, Kyle J. Henry, who passed away unexpectedly in July of 2013. Kyle is survived by his only child, Thomas John “TJ” Henry of Hastings, MI.

Judy was also preceded in death by her youngest and only daughter, Angela B. Henry Palanca (Patrick), who passed unexpectedly in May of 2020 in Homewood, IL. Angela also left us from her favorite chair, at home, after closing her eyes one afternoon for a quick nap. She had three beautiful children: Nickalas, Isabella and Benjamin. All four of Judy’s grandchildren were the apple of her eye, and she loved having them visit every summer and at “ThanksChristmas” in November, her solution for celebrating both holidays at a time when the whole family could get together in Holland.

Judy married Methodist Pastor Donald “Keith” Laidler in 1992 in Lake Odessa. Keith passed away in July of 2020. Preceding him in death was his son, Joseph, from his first marriage. He was survived by Judy and the mother of his children, Jacqueline Symons-Laidler, and his four surviving children from his marriage to Jacqueline: Sheryl (Roger) Miller, Lynette (Steven) Keteyian, Brent Laidler, and Don (Darcy) Laidler, who all had a fond place in Judy’s heart. 

She married William Lee, of Hillsdale, on July 4, 1953, and he preceded her on March 23, 2017.

Janet graduated from Hudson High School in 1949 and went on to graduate from the University of Michigan School of Music and Wayne State University.

She was employed as a music teacher for the Berkley Public Schools and served as minister of music and arts for the Southfield Methodist Church, associate in music at the Royal Oak Methodist Church, minister of music and arts at the Clawson United Methodist Church and at the Hillsdale United Methodist Church. She is a retired ordained permanent Deacon in the Michigan Conference of The United Methodist Church and most recently served as a volunteer in music at the Jonesville UMC. Janet was a member of the National Fellowship of United Methodists in Music and Worship Arts and served a term as the 1st woman president of the organization she also served two terms as the president of the national organization of Jelly Jammers. She was a member of the Hillsdale Kiwanis, past co-president with her husband of Hillsdale Rotary, and a two-time Paul Harris awardee, a member and past president of Hillsdale Women’s Club, past president of AAUW, a past president and life member of Royal Oak Musical, and past Hillsdale County seniors service board member.

Janet is survived by five children: Sue (George) McManus of Augusta, Georgia, Bill (Linda) Lee of Auburn Hills, Patricia (Kevin) Trader of Warner, New Hampshire, Doug (Holli) Lee of Elizabethtown, Kentucky, and Rick (Vickie) Lee of Pittsford, eleven grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband; William, parents, a stepmother, Jane A. (Judd) Leisenring, and one grandson; William Lee.

Janet A. Lee served: 1986 Transferred from Detroit Conference; 1988 Hillsdale: First, Minister of Music and Arts and Hillsdale Daily News, Religion and Lifestyles Editor; 2002 Retired; 2002 -2012 Hillsdale First, Minister of Music and Arts. Died October 21, 2021. 

After graduation from Dearborn High School, Barbara attended Albion College. In addition to her degree from Albion College, Barbara earned Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry degrees from Garret Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, Illinois.

While she served as a pastor with congregations in Redford (Aldersgate), Melvindale, Detroit (Central UMC), and Chelsea, Barbara’s primary ministry was one of pastoral psychotherapy. She was affiliated with the Samaritan Counseling Center of Southeastern Michigan for nearly thirty years. She also served as a consultant to the Bishop on matters of clergy sexual misconduct. Barbara was gifted in helping others discover safe and grace-filled spaces for healing. She was deeply committed to justice and truth telling.

Barbara’s friends and family knew her as a great source of wisdom and comfort. She was a friend, mentor, and counselor to many. Barbara’s most treasured role in life was that of mother and grandmother. She was always present and patient and found great joy in those she loved.

She is survived by her husband of thirty-one years, Shawn; their children, Peter Menna, Abby Lewin-Ziegler, and Kate Lewis-Lakin; their children’s spouses, Errin Menna, Joe Lewin-Ziegler, and C.C. Huang; and granddaughters Sasha Menna and Nora Lewin-Ziegler. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, older brother Allan Lewis, and husband David Byers.

When Barbara was the preacher for the annual conference memorial service in 2016, she ended her sermon with these words:

God’s love and grace surround us; Christ’s healing power walks with us on this journey. And so, we find a way, through death, grief, and loss to each other and to God because that’s who we are, in Christ’s name and spirit.

Amen and Amen. 

Barbara J. Lewis-Lakin served: 1981 Detroit: Aldersgate (assoc.); 1985 Melvindale; 1986 Detroit: Central (assoc.); 1990 school; 1997 Pastoral Counselor, Samaritan Counseling Center; 2004 Pastoral Psychotherapist, Samaritan Counseling Center of Southeastern Michigan (LTFT ½), Chelsea: First (assoc) (LTFT ½). 2010 Samaritan Counseling Center of S. E. Michigan; 2015 Retired. Died June 29, 2021.

David knew “whose he was and where he was going” and passed from this earth with grace and peace to the arms of his Lord.

David was born January 24, 1933 in Romeo, MI to Leroy Louis and Ellen Blanche Liscomb and attended schools in Romeo. On October 15, 1955 he married Arlene Steffen of Centerline, MI. Together, they raised four children. Rev. Liscomb was a charter graduate of Oakland University in Rochester, MI where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree, and a Master of Divinity Degree from Bexley Hall, the Divinity School of Kenyon College in Gambier, OH. Throughout his life he remained grateful to the high school teacher who submitted a letter of recommendation to the college admissions board on his behalf, believing that David’s persistence in repeating his math class not once but three times was ample evidence of the strength of character and determination that would surely set him on a successful path in college and in life. In kind, he was a strong and loving role model to his kids and grands, always encouraging that they could do anything in life of their choosing if they committed to the work to achieve their dreams. He truly did.

 

An Ordained Minister of the United Methodist Church (UMC), he served a number of churches in Michigan and Ohio including Paint Creek, Howarth, Clinton, Escanaba First, Bark River, Trinity UMC in Iron Mountain, Troy First, Mt. Clemens First, Sault Ste Marie Central, and Algonquin UMC, retiring in 1998 after forty-three years in the Ministry. He was a true servant of the Lord, spreading the gospel of Jesus in how he lived and loved on a daily basis. As a retired pastor, he was happy to be in the pew and singing (quite loudly and unashamedly off-key) all his favorite hymns. Fellowship with his “pew-pals” was a treasure.

 

In spite of a visual handicap, he loved to read very large print British mysteries, play cards with his true love Arlene, solve most of the world’s problems while swimming at their winter condo in Arizona, and tinker around the house. Having characterized his own youth as “largely misspent”, he delighted in the glint in the eyes of a mischievous child, those who lived life to the fullest, and the unconventional. He loved telling a funny story and rarely got to the punch line before bursting at the seams with laughter! Although he appreciated opera, the symphony, and the classics, his eyes joyously runneth over with laugh-tears during his favorite movies “O Brother Where Art Thou” and “Waking Ned Devine”.

He is survived by his loving wife Arlene of Crystal Falls, MI and Peoria, AZ, an identical twin brother Robert of Sterling Heights, MI (David being the oldest and best looking), son Steven (Vanessa) of Amasa, MI, daughter Candice Liscomb (Greg Stough) of Dakar, Senegal, daughter Stephanie West (Terry) of Lexington, VA, five grandchildren [Mercedes Maki (Aaron), Cassandra Poirier (Justin), Kindrina, John, and Stephanie Stough], and three great-grandchildren [Eero and Ada Maki and Oliver Poirier].

 

In addition to his parents, Rev. Liscomb was preceded in death by his son Andrew Liscomb of Amasa, MI, his beloved cat Calvin Liscomb, a sister Roberta Smiles of Romeo, MI, and a brother George Liscomb of Tavaras, FL.

David M. Liscomb served: 1955 Disco; 1956 (without appointment at his request); 1957 Paint Creek; 1958 Paint Creek, Howarth; 1964 Gambier, Hopewell (NE OH Conf.); 1967 Clinton; 1969 Escanaba: First, Bark River; 1973 Iron Mountain: Trinity; 1982 Troy: First; 1986 Mt. Clemens: First; 1992 Sault Ste. Marie: Central, Algonquin; 1993 disability leave; 1998 Retired. Died April 6, 2021.

She graduated from Blissfield High School in 1963 and married Walter H. Miller two weeks later. After working several jobs and being a stay-at-home mom, she received a calling from the Lord to nursing. She attended Northwestern Ohio Practical Nursing School and graduated the night before the Blizzard of '78. After faithfully serving as a nurse for 25 years at Flower Hospital in Sylvania, Sandy retired in 2002.

Throughout her life she has worked with children, including teaching Sunday School and VBS, Cub Scouts, Campfire Girls and Blue Birds, AWANA, and teaching at a homeschool co-op. She wrote and directed several plays for churches and was a certified lay speaker in the United Methodist Church. In addition to her other activities, Sandy enjoyed sewing, especially making dresses for her daughters when they were young, making and decorating cakes for weddings and graduations, and painting landscapes.

She is survived by her husband Rev. Walter H. Miller of 58 years, children, Walter H. Miller, Jr. (Sharon) of Manitou Beach, Wendy (Doug) Fowler of Addison, Deborah (David) Eskew of Leesburg, Va., and Julia (Jeff) Ely of Manitou Beach, ten grandchildren and three great grandchildren, her mother Helen Woodward of Blissfield, sisters Nancy (Larry) Dangler and Mary Woodward, and a brother Thomas (Carol) Woodward, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a brother, David and her father, Clinton.  

R

He was born on May 19, 1940, the only child of Arlie M. Montney and Margaret F. (Boyd) Montney. He attended schools in Mt. Morris, St. Ignace, and Kearsley as his father worked on the Michigan State Ferries from 1948-1952 before the Mackinaw Bridge was built. He graduated from Kearsley High School in 1958 before attending Flint Community Junior College. He served in the United States Army Reserves where he taught transportation classes. Before marrying his true love, Jeanann (Lyman) Montney on January 27, 1968, he worked as a millwright at Buick Motor Division. He was a devoted father to his sons, James Boyd Montney II and Christopher David Montney. Jay was a Boy Scout leader and encouraged both of his sons until they reached the rank of Eagle Scout. Young students at the Davison Montessori Academy and Questar School for Gifted Children were instructed by Jay. He was a member of the Elba United Methodist Church, American Legion, National Rifle Association, and the Herb Society of America where he served as chairperson of the Frankenmuth unit.

Jay was an historian with an extensive collection of books that included in particular Michigan authors and books about Michigan. He loved genealogy and investigated the family trees of Montney, Lyman, Johnson, Morse, Ezell, Davis, Denam, and Boyd families. Other topics of his inquiries include Great Lake freighters, the U.S. Civil War, and the United States involvement in World War II.

Throughout his lifetime the Lord had been calling him, but Jay’s reticence prevented him from pursuing this vocation until 2006 when he accepted the invitation. Elba United Methodist Church was pastored by him from January 2006 to July 2014. He was devoted to his congregation. In addition to ministerial duties Jay participated in Vacation Bible School, acted in dramas, taught Bible studies, and sang in choirs and cantatas. His sense of humor added sparkle and energy to all events.

Surviving: his devoted wife, Jeanann L. Montney; two sons, James (Christine) Montney and Christopher Montney; grandchildren: Elliot, Langston, Eloise, and Isiah Montney; many dear friends and relatives. Preceded in death by his parents, Arlie M. Montney and Margaret F. (Boyd) Montney; granddaughter Crystal Marie Montney.

 

James B. Montney served: Elba Feb 1, 2006; Retired 2012. Died January 13, 2022.

He was born in Ava, Ohio, May 1^st, 1925, and lived to the age of 96 and served as a minister for 62 years of his life.  He retired from the Trowbridge United Methodist Church at age 92.  John attended Peoples Bible College, Nazarene Theological Seminary, Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, and Western Theological Seminary and eventually received his Master’s in Divinity.  John’s choice to attend these seminaries would lead him down a lifelong journey of serving God and others.

As a local Pastor serving in Colorado, New Mexico, Michigan, and Illinois, his life and ministry was influential in touching and changing many lives.  John ministered in 2 different denominations Free Methodist and United Methodist in churches.  Memories that are characteristic of his calling include Founder/Principal of Christian Day School, ministering on Navajo Reservations, Director of Public Relations at Woodstock Children’s Home, on a broadcast of “Ask the Pastor” at WTU TV, Olive Branch Mission, and President Emeritus of the Michigan Interfaith Council on the Alcohol Problems.

John had a heart for the world and was blessed beyond measure as he traveled to 11 countries including 17 trips to Israel as a part of Blossoming Rose Organization and archaeological digs.  In Haiti he acquired a love for the children there through his work in orphanages and schools.   As a part of the rescue for Chernobyl disaster John spent time transporting survivors to hospitals for treatment.

God opened a door for John to serve in the Southwest Michigan Conference of the United Methodist Church.  He is remembered most for the time, love, and care for the people in his life.  Yet he still took time for his family who meant the world to him including yearly family vacations visiting 45 out of the 50 states.  He had a passion for life and enjoyed running, golfing, softball, working out in the gym, and cars.  Even with the loss of his limb and relearning to walk and making adjustments to tailor his lifestyle to accommodate this loss, he stood strong in the face of his struggle with determination, strength, and courage. 

In 2017 John returned to Colorado to live at Morningstar at Ridgegate Senior Living.  He was well known and loved from the beginning.  The adjustment to his new residence was made easier when he started a Protestant Service.  His time at Morningstar was characteristic of the man he was. The patriarch of our family, he lived out his final days with his children and grandchildren close by.  We will miss you John and your spiritual legacy will live on.  As John would say, “Let Us Pray”.

John L. Moore served: 1981 Transferred from Free Methodist; 1980 Arden; 1988 Kalamazoo: Stockbridge Ave; 1992 Galesburg; 1995 Retired; 1995-1997 Center Park; 1997-2004 Union City; 2006 Portage First (Assoc); 2007 Portage First (Assoc ¾ Time) and Kalamazoo Stockbridge Ave (¼ Time); 2010 Portage First (Assoc ¾ Time); 2012- 2013 Portage First (Assoc ½ Time) and Galesburg (½ Time); 2014-2018 Otsego: Trowbridge (LTFT ¼). Died September 5, 2021. 

Timothy Myette and Alec Apodaca, granddaughters Kara Apodaca and Ashley Bodell, and great grandchildren Sophie Myette and Lenox Dixon. Ruth survived her four sisters, Helen, Jane, Melva, and Leah, and her brother Tom McKelvey.

Ruth was born October 11, 1923, in Kittanning, PA. She attended Roberts Wesleyan College in Rochester, NY, where she met her husband of almost 60 years. The couple moved to Jonesville, Michigan and began ministering in the Methodist church in the West Michigan Conference. The church was their life. After Jonesville they served in Lawrence, Breckenridge, Grand Rapids, Muskegon, Lansing, Rockford, Sparta, Leland, Keswick, and Newaygo.

Ruth worked numerous jobs over the years, receiving a retirement from the Michigan Public School System. She was a generous soul, well known for gifting her prize-winning peanut brittle, Christmas candy, and delicious year-round chocolate chip cookies.

Saugatuck/New Richmond; Coopersville/Nunica; Portage Chapel Hill; Ithaca/Beebe; Lansing Faith; Hastings; Plainwell; West Michigan Conference Council Director.

David was blessed with five children, ten grandchildren, and nineteen grandchildren. David stood strong on his faith, served the Lord, and brought others to salvation. The foundation for his ministry was Romans 1:16, “I am not ashamed of the gospel; it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who has faith, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.” David will be greatly missed yet we know that through a relationship with Christ will be joined together again.

David B. Nelson served: 1959 UM Connectional Structures: CMU Wesley Foundation, Mt. Pleasant; 1960 Montgomery; 1960 Camden; 1962 Saugatuck; 1962 New Richmond, Grand Rapids; 1965 Coopersville; 1965 Nunica, Grand Rapids; 1968 Portage: Chapel Hill; 1972 Ithaca; 1976 Beebe, Ithaca; 1980 Lansing: Asbury; 1985 Hastings: First; 1989 Plainwell: First; Council Director, 1998 Retired. Died January 20, 2022. 

rascally sense of humor. He grew up in the West Michigan Conference and held several committee positions in both the West Michigan and Detroit Annual Conferences.

He was a tremendous help to his wife, Margaret, in her ministry. Interestingly, he was not only a clergy spouse but also a clergy brother. Ed Passenger is a retiree from the West Michigan Conference. Henry is deeply missed

Henry Burt Passenger, a proud newspaperman, died Friday, February 11, at his home in Monroe as he wished. He was 86. He was surrounded by loved ones and cared for by Elara Caring (hospice) and

Angel’s Helpful Hands.  Henry was the husband of Retired Elder Rev. Margaret A. Passenger and brother of Retired Elder Rev. Edward L. Passenger.

Born on May 22, 1935, in Alma, MI, Henry was the son of Fred and Ruth (Richardson) Passenger. He grew up in Ithaca, MI. He graduated from Ithaca High School in 1952 and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Albion College in 1957. Soon after, he joined the staff of The Monroe Evening News.

Over the next 15 years, Henry left Monroe for stints on the copy desks at the Battle Creek Enquirer and The Grand Rapids Press, as well as a time as news department director at Albion College. But he was always lured back to the MEN where he worked as a reporter, copy editor, city editor, assistant to the managing editor, news editor and columnist. He retired from The Monroe News in 1997 after 40 years in the news business.

In 1962, Henry was featured in a column by Evening News writer Gertrude Gustafson about Monroe’s most eligible bachelors. She mentioned his hobbies of photography, playing the organ and playing tennis and bridge; the column even included his own recipe for oatmeal cookies. He wasn’t a bachelor for long.

Henry married Nancy Farrell on February 16, 1963, at First Baptist Church in Monroe. They had two children, Penny and Peter. Nancy died in September 1993. Henry then married Margaret Pettit on May 31, 1997, in a ceremony at the Sawyer Homestead. They had met on the copy desk at The Monroe Evening News.

Henry was an intelligent well-read man of wide-ranging interests. He became an advocate for home computers in the early 1980s. He enjoyed the technical challenges and encouraged others to explore the new technology. He helped people buy their first computers and taught computer classes for the Jefferson Adult Education and High School Completion programs.

Henry was a past member of the Monroe Community Players, appearing in 14 consecutive productions and earning an MCP Oscar for Best Supporting Actor. Along with Nancy, he owned and operated the Monroe Conservatory of Music for many years.

He was a lifelong member of the Sawyer Homestead and a former member of Heritage United Methodist Church, Monroe.

Henry had a rascally sense of humor, playing elaborate tricks on co-workers in the newsroom. He often added green food coloring to the office coffee on St. Patrick’s Day and his portrayal of a lanky Santa Claus in a too-short Santa suit at company Christmas parties is part of legend.

Henry never lost his love of newspapers and continued to write columns for several papers after his official retirement, among them The Tuscola County Advertiser. He continued to call in news tips and often showed up at The Monroe News with the latest papers’ errors clearly circled. He also enjoyed Sudoku puzzles and was an environmentalist/recycler.

Henry is survived by his wife, Margaret; his children, Penny of Monroe, MI, and Peter (Michelle) of Largo, FL; a step-daughter Marcia Pettit of Westland, MI; two grandsons Patrick and Thomas Passenger of Flint, MI; two step-grandchildren Jackson and Alexandra Pettit; a granddaughter on the way; a brother Ed (Sally) of Spring Lake, MI; two nieces and a nephew; ten great nieces and nephews and several great-great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.

thousands of lives by sharing God's love beyond denominational boundaries, through her writing's. Lonnie was a passionate, determined woman who embraced life through storytelling, many forms of art, dancing the night away, and spending time with family.  The imprints she made in life will remain forever.

a person who despite a terrible diagnosis, maintained her deep faith and love for the Lord. Her face would have never shown she was discouraged or sad about her health. What an example!. 

Beth A. Reum served: 2009 Manton; 2013 Hartford: Keeler, Dowagiac: Silver Creek. 2016 Medical Leave; 2021 Retired. Died August 30, 2021.

United Methodist Church for 12 years from 1982 to 1994 where she was instrumental in the congregation becoming the first Reconciling Congregation in the State of Michigan. Following her service in Williamston, she retired as a pastor and became a realtor with Tomie Raines in East Lansing, Michigan. Ilona loved to travel, photography and gardening.

Ilona was preceded in death by her parents, her husband James Sabo-Shuler, and her partner Jean Fillingham. She will be sincerely missed by her dog, Axel, and many friends.

secretary for the class of officers her senior year.  After graduation she worked as a secretary at an insurance company.  During this time she met her future husband, Rev. Martin G. Seitz and on June 3, 1955, she and Martin were married.

Oneida was a committed pastor’s wife, a wonderful mother of four lovely children, beloved grandmother of 16, and great-grandmother of 15. She was a member of the Reese United Methodist Church and of the United Methodist Women.  She loved flowers, bird watching, being a good hostess, dining out, reading, watching scary movies, and especially coffee time with family. 

She was a faithful servant of Our Lord and Savior and was a long-time member at Temple United Methodist Church.

She married Harold Banta in 1937 and together they had four children, Terry, Judy, Daniel and David. Together they moved to Muskegon in 1939 and remained in the West Michigan area the rest of her life. Harold preceded her in death in 1985. Eloise then married Keith Hallberg in 1988 and he preceded her in death in 1996. On April 26, 1997, she married Rev. Richard Selleck, together they cherished 23 years of marriage full of love and laughter. He preceded her in death in 2020.

She was a dedicated employee of YWCA USA, a nonprofit organization, where she worked as a teen director and interim head director. She retired in 1973 after working at YWCA for 10 years. Eloise was very involved in her community; she held the presidential position in numerous clubs and organizations all throughout the Muskegon area. She also was an active volunteer at the Muskegon County Garden Club, Temple United Methodist Church, and numerous places. With all her hard work and time, she put back into her community, she was awarded the Muskegon County Mother of the Year in 1965 and she also received the William “Bill” Murray service award in 1990. She also was a talented artist and enjoyed painting landscapes with watercolors. Eloise enjoyed traveling, fishing, reading and baseball. She was a spunky tough old bird that will truly be missed by many.

She is survived by her 3 children, David (Rhoda) Banta, Daniel (Barbara) Banta and Judith Jacobs; 6 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and several great-great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents; son, Terry Banta; sister, Dorothy Maget; and brother, William Gilliland  

stepfather Daniel Czyzewski, wife of 53 years Patricia (Dillon), son Thomas, and his siblings Leo, Wesley, Max, and Laura Meyer.

Bill graduated from Harrison High School and continued his education at Central Michigan University where he met the love of his life, Pat. Bill completed his criminal justice degree at Lansing Community College and retired as a Sergeant with the Lansing Police Department. After retirement, Bill kept busy supporting his wife's ministry, cheering on his Spartans and Detroit Lions, golfing on several leagues including the Grumpy Old Men's League, and spending time with his pride and joy, granddaughter Sarah.

Bill is survived by his daughter Julia Lynn, granddaughter Sarah (Nate) Aldrich, sister Sharon Smith along with numerous in laws, nieces, nephews, and many friends.
Special thanks to Kim, Nicole, and the McLaren Home Hospice team for the care and support provided.

Fern (Rice) Stuvel and lived in Burton, MI. He devoted his life to his family, his service in the Air Force (Korean War) and his dedication to his church and school system (Mt. Morris).  He was a teacher, principal, a lay speaker and instructor. Ted loved the outdoors, traveling, learning and always having a good laugh.

Ted served the church in many capacities and was well known in Flint-area congregations.  He started preaching when he was just a teenager at what is now the Phoenix Atherton UMC.  He filled many pulpits and served as a District Superintendent Assignment from time to time.  Perhaps his greatest legacy is the Lay Speaker/Servant Training program, which he helped to develop and then led for many years.  That program became a model for districts throughout the Detroit Conference, and through that program Ted trained leaders who went back to serve countless congregations.  Many of those leaders went on to serve in pastoral ministry.

Ted was dearly loved by his wife of 69 years Margery; children Deb (Rick), Mike and Cindy (George); grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many dear friends.  

daughter of Howard and Dora Morrow, who have preceded her in death. She graduated high school in Saginaw and continued her education at The University of Michigan, earning her bachelor’s degree in education. Margaret worked as a teacher and was passionate about her role as a mother and a minister’s wife. She enjoyed traveling and going on car rides. She could often be found solving crossword puzzles at Big Boy in Wayne/Westland. She was proud of her family and loved them dearly. Margaret was a very independent woman with a very giving and loving heart.

Along with her parents, Margaret is preceded in death by her husband, Rev. Russell Sursaw; great-grandson, Zachary Boller; and siblings, Hollis Morrow and Dorothy Morrow. She is survived by her daughters, Kay (John) Petree and Marcia (Mike) Wertzbar; grandchildren: Wendy (Jeff) Moss, Rob (Nancy) Petree, Jennifer (Rich) Francis, Scott (Sarah) Petree, Kristen (Jeff) Kucharek, and Debra Holton; great-grandchildren: Matt (Lauren) Boller, Corey Boller, Emily (Liam) Boller, Ricky Schultz, Adam Moss, D.J. Moss, Ashley (Tyler) Sabuda, Trevor Petree, Colton Petree, Hannah Francis, Emma Francis, Jacob Francis, Wesley Petree, Cameron Petree, Joe (Stacy) Kucharek, Katie (Dmitriy) Shkolnik, Monica Kucharek, Jared Kucharek, John Kucharek, Lily Kucharek, Jena (Brandon) Valentine, Kayla Holton, and Faith Holton; and 6 great-great-grandchildren.

Henry Storbakken in rural Westby, Wisconsin. Helen with her six siblings and several relatives worked to save the farm after the untimely death of her father. Over the years, the several hundred acres of land has become a very successful cattle and dairy farm. At the age of 18, with the financial help from her dear aunt Olga, Helen left the farm life and entered the prestigious Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. Following graduation in 1944, Helen, along with a couple of her nursing colleagues, answered the call for nursing support at the end of World War II. After Army training at Fort Carson in Colorado Springs, CO., Helen deployed to the Philippines and traveled for several weeks by ship. She served in the Pacific Theater as the head nurse of a unit, providing comfort and nursing care to wounded soldiers. Helen met her future husband, Charles in Manila, while he was serving as a Medic Corpsman. Once back in the States, they married and both received degrees from Michigan State University. Charles continued his education at Yale Divinity school in New Haven, Conn. and was an ordained Methodist Minister. Even with five children, Helen continued her nursing career, supported her husband’s ministry, and provided meals to esteemed guests in their Detroit home, including Martin Luther King JR. In Dayton, Helen worked at MVH on the orthopedic unit. While challenging, Helen most enjoyed working with Veterans at the Dayton VA center. At the age of 60, Helen retired from nursing and with her husband started the second chapter of their lives. Traveling across the world they enjoyed meeting people from all cultures. Helen’s fondest memories were meeting the gentle people of Japan. In 1983, they served as co-directors of the World Friendship Center in Hiroshima. Later in 1987 they both taught at the Dalian, China Institute of Foreign Language. Helen and Charles’s passion of travel, being peacemakers and spreading love for their fellow man were their greatest joys and accomplishments. Following the death of her husband in 1994, Helen continued to find pleasure in gardening, watching, and feeding her birds, playing with and caring for her 2 cats, hosting holiday dinners, baking lots of cookies, teaching her adult children/ grandchildren the joys of nature and spending time with her precious grandchildren and great grandchildren. 

Chuck was not a perfect man, but he clung personally and wholeheartedly to the same amazing grace of God that he proclaimed to so many others. Chuck was born on November 26, 1941, in Holland, Michigan to Lloyd and Marion VanLente. He served God, people and numerous communities throughout his lifetime as an Air Force Airman, a Michigan State Trooper, a United Methodist Pastor, a volunteer firefighter and a police chaplain. Chuck was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Ron. He is survived by his wife, Linda, his sister, Judy, three children, three stepchildren, plus several grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Charles R. VanLente served: 1963 Ashton Charge; 1964 Morris Chapel/Niles; 1970 St Johns: Salem; 1972 Maple Hill; 1976 Honorable Location; 1978 Holton/Sitka/Twin Lake (Ad Interim); 1982 Readmitted; 1982 Holton/Sitka/Twin Lake; 1983 Cassopolis; 1993 Kalkaska; 1996 Grand Rapids: Northlawn; 2010 Retired. Died December 28, 2021.

Alonzo furthered his education and passion for ministries obtaining his Masters of Divinity. Alonzo followed his heart and path from God becoming a United Methodist Pastor for 52 years until his retirement in 2013 after serving in numerous churches in Arkansas, Northern Illinois, West Ohio, Wisconsin, and Michigan. Alonzo has served on United Methodist District, Conference, and Jurisdiction committees and boards. He was a consultant and trained for the General Board of Global Ministries' Office of Urban Ministries, Black Community Developers' Program, and National Urban Strategy Committee. Alonzo was a member of the Leadership Development Committee, Urban Steering Committee, and Alliance for Urban Ministries. He pastored single and multi point charges. Alonzo was in specialized ministries such as Urban Parish Director, as the Director of Urban Strategy in the Milwaukee District and the District Superintendent. He initiated and started a Korean Congregation in a shared facility and a Hispanic Congregation. Alonzo was involved in the creation of the Black Community Developers Program and one of six persons who created the North Central Jurisdiction's Urban Network.

Rev. Alonzo Vincent met, fell in love with, and married Rev. Elmira Smith on June 30, 1994 in Flint, Michigan. In his down time, Alonzo enjoyed playing cards such as solitaire and freecell. He enjoyed watching movies particularly Westerns and Sci-Fi, his all time favorite movie was Godzilla. Alonzo enjoyed reading, studying, and educating others on the Bible. If you got a chance to meet Alonzo, you know he was a friend to everyone, he loved helping and guiding others. Most of all Alonzo loved his family, spending time with them and the church; he loved the church meetings, worship and praise services.

Alonzo E. Vincent served: 1961 McCabe Chapel (N. Little Rock AR; 1962 Sweet Home, Lone Oak Circuit AR; 1966 Chicago: St. Matthew’s (assoc); 1967 Evanston IL: Sherman Avenue; 1968 Cincinnati: Marbly Memorial; 1973 Cincinnati: Marbly, Bond Hill, St. Mark Parish; 1979 Transfer to Wisconsin Conference, Director of Urban Strategy, Milwaukee; 1983 Southcentral District Superintendent; July 1984 Transfer to Detroit Conference, Detroit: Cass Avenue (assoc); 1986 Highland Park: Berea-St. Paul’s; 1991 Flint: Bethel; 2005 Birch Run; 2007 Attica; 2008 Mt. Morris: First; 2013 Retired. Died January 26, 2022.

Born March 30, 1929 to the late Wells B. Warren and Jessie A. (Baldwin) Warren in Port Huron, Michigan, Noreen would later meet and marry her “one in a million” now late husband, Reverend William G. Wager, a United Methodist minister, on October 29, 1948. With passionate servants’ hearts, together they served many congregations in and around Southeastern Michigan. At the time of Bill’s death on June 27, 1991, Bill and Noreen had been married nearly 43 years. During their marriage, Noreen was a devoted and faithful wife, supportive pastor’s spouse, loving mother to their two children, William and Patricia, caring LPN to the residents of several Detroit Area hospitals, and doting grandmother. And after Bill’s death, Noreen remained the center of her family’s universe until her own peaceful passing.

A longtime Port Huron and later Fort Gratiot resident, Noreen loved the Blue Water Area - especially the lake, freighters, wildlife, agriculture, and people. A former Peach Queen, Noreen was proud part of her community and volunteered much of her time with her longtime congregation, First United Methodist Church, camps, local soup kitchens, hospitals, animal rescues, and she supported many other private and civic organizations. She loved her community and was generous in sharing her time, deed, and monetary means.

While she was an active part of her community, Noreen was never more active in anything than in the lives of her beloved family. Noreen was present at our births, weddings, graduations, and other big life celebrations; but also irreplaceably in our daily lives - our home-building, school plays, sporting events, concerts, dance recitals, academic competitions, neighborhood bike rides, Friday night family pizza and movie nights, and summer family baseball games and barbecues, to name a few. She shared in holiday celebrations and smaller special events, as well - always sure to celebrate each of our birthdays individually with a birthday meal as well as participating in our larger birthday parties. She always took pictures, sent letters and cards, called us on the phone, clipped us coupons and newspaper articles/comics, knit us special items, encouraged our dreams (but asked the hard questions), donated to the organizations and causes of our passions, shared a cuppa coffee or tea or even a can of pop, and - no matter how big or how small - Noreen never failed to seize an opportunity to remind us of her love. She kept our childhood gifts/small tokens, our cards, and small notes of love and encouragement - and she displayed them as if they were her most prized possessions (because they were). She always provided us with what we needed when we needed it - whether that be a kind word, hug, handful of cash, fun trip, story of faith, or just giving us space. Noreen wasn’t perfect; but she, like her husband Bill, was one in a million, and we were blessed to call her “ours” for so long. Of all the roles she had in life, Noreen’s most precious ones were those she held within her family. She loved us all dearly and was proud of the lives we’ve chosen to live. She was a true matriarch - one who loved us even when we were unlovable, was patient and kind even when we didn’t deserve it, and showed us how to live a life in which we could take pride. Noreen will be greatly missed by many, but most of all by her family. She will live on in our hearts forever.

Noreen is survived by her devoted and loving family: a son, William (Judith) Wager of Clyde Twp., Michigan; a daughter, Dr. Trish McNeil of Parker, Colorado; five grandchildren: William (Jessica) Wager, Curtis (Heather) Wager, Heidi Kristin Wager, CMSgt Gordon (Beth) Wager, and Kelly McNeil; and eight great grandchildren: Mina, Landon, Noah, Tate, Eden, Nicholas, Jonah, and Áine Wager.

She is predeceased by her parents Wells B. and Jessie A. Warren; her husband, William G. Wager; son-in-law, George (Skip) McNeil; and an infant granddaughter, Hope Marie Wager.