Jean I. Kline, age 95, of Sturgis, passed away Saturday afternoon, Jan. 5, 2018, at Borgess Medical Center in Kalamazoo.
She was born July 29, 1923 in Iron River, a daughter of the late Harold and Clara (Asplund) Sensiba.
Jean resided in Sturgis since 1947, coming from Land O’ Lakes, Wis.
On April 29, 1944, she married Paul H. Kline in Sturgeon Bay, Wis. He died April 3, 1999.
She had been employed by the Jewel Food Company in Chicago, and Walgreens in Chicago, Waukegan and Sturgeon Bay. She also worked at the Great Lakes Naval Training Station and LD Smith Shipyards in Sturgeon Bay.
Jean was very active and always willing to give of her time. Some of her many activities and memberships included past president of American Legion Auxiliary, past president of Mothers of WWII, Sturgis Hospital Escort Guild, Merry Doers FCE Club, Michiana Christian Women’s Club and Salon #717 of the Eight and Forty and Burr Oak Home Club. She was a former member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Burr Oak and was a current member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Sturgis. Jean was past president of St. John’s Lutheran Church Ladies Aid and past secretary of Trinity Lutheran Church Ladies Aid.
She is survived by her children, Pat (Bruce) Johnson of Niles, Christine (Dan) Malone of Sturgis, Kathy Kline of Sturgis, Wendy (Greg) Yesh of Burr Oak, Tom (Pam) Kline of Mendon, Terry Kline of Sturgis and Kerry Kline of Sturgis; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Ruth LaChance of White Fish, Mont.; a brother, Lee Sensiba of Tucson, Ariz.; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Thomas Sensiba; and her beloved Aunt “Mim” Asplund.
The family will receive friends from 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday at Rosenberg Chapel of Hackman Family Funeral Homes, 807 E. Chicago Road, Sturgis. Funeral services celebrating the life of Jean I. Kline will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at the funeral home. The Rev. Calvin Kolzow of Trinity Lutheran Church will officiate. In accordance with her wishes, cremation will follow the services. Private burial of the ashes will take place at a later date at Oak Lawn Cemetery in Sturgis.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Mrs. Kline’s memory consider Sturgis Wind Symphony, P.O. Box 164, Sturgis, MI 49091; or Trinity Lutheran Church, 406 S. Lakeview Ave., Sturgis, MI 49091.
Her obituary is also at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com, where personal messages of support may be left for the family.

Paul LaVern Romig, age 71, of Three Rivers, died Sunday, Jan. 6, 2019 at his home following a long illness. He was born in Battle Creek on Dec. 17, 1947 the son of Arthur L. and Doris (Rupert) Romig. He was married to Barbara Jean Richardson on July 12, 1971 in Schoolcraft. They have resided in Three Rivers the past 33 years, coming from Portage. Paul was a trackman for New York Central Railroad which later became Penn Central and Norfolk Southern. He was a train enthusiast and collected many train hats. He enjoyed going to tractor shows, camping, and fishing, especially ice fishing.

Paul is survived by his wife, Barbara; four children, Jennifer Jay (Donald Hawkins) Mosley of Charlotte, TN, Jessica Jay (Kenneth) DeCamp, Billie Jo (Daryl) Pursel, and Zachery Schearer Romig all of Three Rivers; eight grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two brothers, Jerry Romig of Parchment and Terry Romig of Georgia; and uncle, George Rupert. He was preceded in death by his parents; and two grandchildren, Steven and Audrey Cowgill.

Funeral services will be at 1:00 pm Friday, Jan 11, 2019 at the Eickhoff Farrand Halverson Chapel in Three Rivers with Rev. Archie Lhamon, Pastor of the Unity Missionary Baptist Church of Paw Paw officiating. Burial will be in Schoolcraft Cemetery. The family suggests that donations be directed to Southern Care Hospice. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.efhchapel.com

James O. Shidaker, age 88, of Constantine. passed away Tuesday, January 8, 2019 at Three Rivers Health. He was born February 1, 1930 in Plymouth, IN, a son of Lert & Lodema (Aldifor) Shidaker. Jim served in the US Army in the Korean War from 1951 – 1953. On February 23, 1991 he married Joyce Howard at Zion Lutheran Church in Bristol, IN.

Jim worked as a truck driver, working for Lasco Bath, P & P Trucking of Three Rivers, and Kenny Smith Trucking in Cassopolis. He was a member of Messiah Lutheran Church, Constantine, the Constantine American Legion, and the D.A.V. He and Joyce enjoyed traveling, cruise ships, and spent the last 13 winters in Florida.

Surviving are wife Joyce Shidaker, Constantine, sons Jimmy Dale (Cindy) Shidaker, Stockbridge, MI; Dean (Julie) Shidaker, Three Rivers; stepchildren Jill (Phil) Moran, Elkhart; Mark (April) Hostetler, Constantine; 9 grandchildren, several great grandchildren, 1 great great granddaughter, many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Viola Pursel, brother William Shidaker, infant brother George Shidaker, and sister Laura Ann Miller.

Relatives and friends will be received Friday at Eley Funeral Home, Constantine from 4 to 7 PM and at Messiah Lutheran Church Saturday from 10 to 11 am, where Religious services will follow at 11:00 AM, Pastor Chris Laughman, officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the church or to Animal Rescue Fund. Interment will be in Constantine Cemetery. Online messages may be left for the family at www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.

Floyd G. Hodges, age 97, of Sturgis, passed away Monday, Jan. 7, 2019, at Sturgis Hospital.
Floyd was born Dec. 3, 1921, in Cowan, Tenn., a son of the late Howard E. and Effie J. (Grandstaff) Hodges.
Floyd grew up in Colon, graduating from Colon High School with the class of 1942. He moved to Sturgis in 1948.
On Sept. 28, 1947, he married Lola J. Gilbo in Sturgis.
Floyd served in the U.S. Army for 31 months during World War II with the first infantry division, The Big Red One, in the European theatre in North Africa and Italy.
He had worked as a truck driver 45 years, logging more than 1 million safe miles.
He was a member of Sturgis Missionary Church.
He is survived by his wife, Lola J. Hodges of Sturgis; a daughter, Julie D. (Wes) Thatcher of Three Rivers; two sons, Keith C. (Connie) Hodges of New Albany, Ind., and Brian W. (Ila) Hodges of Sturgis; 13 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; a niece, Janet (Dennis) Stoll of Sherwood; and a nephew, Ivin (Sherry) Riddle of Mendon.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, Willard (Bud) and James C. Hodges; and a son-in-law, Joseph White.
The family will receive relatives and friends  from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Schipper Funeral Home in Colon. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 11, at the funeral home, with Pastor Joshua Brueck of Sturgis Missionary Church and the Rev. Rodger Moyer of Sturgis Evangelical Church officiating. Burial will follow at Lakeside Cemetery in Colon with military honors conferred by Colon American Legion and the U.S. Army Honor Guard.
If desired, the family suggests memorials be made in memory of Floyd to Sturgis Missionary Church or the charity of one’s choice .

Glenn Eugene Miller, age 72, of Constantine, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 8, 2019, at his home.
Arrangements will be announced by Hackman Family Funeral Homes in Sturgis.

Jerelene “Geraldine” Beatrice Humes, went to be with her Lord on Wednesday, January 9th, 2019 at her home surrounded by her beloved family.  She was born on Dec. 24, 1935 in Stanton, Alabama, the daughter of the late Thomas and Christiana (Harville) Shelton.

Mrs. Humes has been a long time resident of Three Rivers where she owned and operated Jeri’s Hair Fashion for many years.  She and her late husband Mr. Ralph Humes Sr., have been long time and active members of New Jerusalem Church where she was a church mother, Deaconess and taught Children’s Church.  Jerelene liked to quilt, garden, and cook. Her true passion was for the Lord and her family which she loved and cared for until her last day.

She was preceded in death by five siblings, Odessa Mitchell, Iverna Shelton, Thomas Shelton Jr., Oretha Shelton, and Velma Whitten.

She leaves to cherish her loving memory, five beloved children, Ralph (Dawn) Stanley Humes Jr., Barbara Humes, Deborah Brown, Angela (George) Folk, and June (Gordon) Adair, all of Three Rivers; three sisters, Willastyne Carter, Doris Rollerson, and Shirley Shelton; one brother, George (Lorraine) Shelton; as well as fifteen grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren.  A host of nieces and nephews also survive.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until the time of services beginning at 12:00 noon on Saturday, January 12th, 2019 at the Bethel Baptist Church, 17852 S. River Rd, Three Rivers, MI 49093 with Pastor Terry Cropper and Pastor Tony Bennett officiating.

Interment will be held in Riverside Cemetery following services.

Memorials may be donated to New Jerusalem Baptist Church.  Envelopes available at the Hohner Funeral Home and Church in care of Mrs. Hume’s arrangements.

Robert Cameron Snyder Jr., age 58, died on Wednesday, January 9, 2019.

In accordance with the family’s wishes a public service will be held on Friday, January 11, 2019 at Hohner Funeral Home of Three Rivers, with visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. until the time of service at 3:00 p.m. with Pastor Josh Wiggins of Edward’s Corners Bible Church officiating.  Cremation will be conducted following services.

Memorial donations may be directed to the Snyder family c/o Kim Snyder.  Envelopes available at Hohner Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

Julie Sue Bontrager, devoted and loving wife, mother of two, and grandmother of three, passed away at 8:20 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 5, 2019, in Alpharetta, Ga., at age 69.
Julie was born Oct. 29, 1949, in Sibley, Iowa. She attended Zeelend High School in Michigan and married Levi B. Bontrager on Sept. 16, 1969, in Allendale, Mich.
Julie operated a fabric store as a private business owner for several years before beginning a 27-year career in the field of education. She began work for White Pigeon Elementary as a paraprofessional and attended Glen Oaks Community College in Centreville, where she earned an associate degree in general studies in 2002 and in childhood education in 2003.
She was awarded a Bachelor of Science in special education from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo in 2006. She then worked at Three Rivers Middle School as a special education teacher. She completed a Master of Arts in humanities from Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant, Mich., in 2008, then completed a Master in the Art of Teaching from Marygrove College in Detroit in 2009. This degree conferred to her highly qualified status as a Michigan special education teacher.
In 2010, the Parent Advisory Committee of St. Joseph County awarded her the distinction as Special Education Teacher of the Year. Later that year, she began her work at Colon Elementary as a special education teacher. She retired from her position at Colon Elementary in 2017.
Julie also served on the Board of Directors as Chairmen of the Very Special Arts of Michigan in St. Joseph County, an organization that promotes arts, education and creative expression among children and adults with disabilities. Part of her work included organizing hands-on workshops in visual arts, music, dance and drama for children with special needs in grades 1-6 through the annual Special Arts Festival. She enjoyed making art, especially watercolors, and she used her artwork to build community bridges within Southwest Michigan and across the Pacific Ocean. Her work was selected in various competitions, including the “Art for the Heart” fundraiser for Diane’s Way Expressive Arts Program of Borgess Visiting Nurse and Hospice. She led her students to make 1,000 paper cranes that they sent to Hiroshima, Japan, to adorn the Children’s Peace Memorial there. She loved spending time with friends and family, she enjoyed basket weaving, quilting and especially spending time baking cookies, banana bread and pumpkin pie with her grandchildren.
Julie was preceded in death by her mother, Johanna (Ytsema), and her father Wiebe (Willie) Kroontje. She is survived by her husband of 49 years, Levi; her sisters, Vonnie Rosentstein and Debi Kroontje-Stark; her brother, Wallie Kroontje; her daughter, Heatherly; her son, Shannon; and her grandchildren, Mairi, Adam and Ronan.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 19, at Rosenberg Chapel of Hackman Family Funeral Homes, 807 E. Chicago Road, Sturgis. Interment will be at Nottawa Cemetery on Filmore Road, followed by a meal at the Locust Grove Mennonite Church on Findley Road in Burr Oak.
In lieu of flowers, please bring backpacks full of books for children to be donated to Colon and Leonidas elementary schools and to honor Julie’s passion for children and learning. Alternatively, a donation may be made to the Julie S. Bontrager Memorial Friendship Bench for children to go to when they want someone to talk to, www.gofundme.com/julie-s-bontrager-memorial-friendship-bench&rcid=r01-154708512923-ca3413bc0b7c4daa&pc=ot_co_campmgmt_w.

With deepest sorrow, we announce Logan Thomas McDonald, age 22, our beloved son, brother, family member and friend passed suddenly on Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2019.
Those who knew Logan, even just a little, lost a shining light in their lives.
Logan will be missed every day by his father Thomas J. McDonald; mother Tamarah L. (Kitch)?McDonald; brother Cody Meshiguad; sisters Morgan and Vanessa McDonald; grandparents Tom and Nancy Kitch and Wayne and Yvonne McDonald; loving uncle Tommy Kitch; aunts Teresa, Tracy and Mary; as well as his loving girlfriend of three years Kemberly Payne; and many other family members and friends.
We know Logan is now with his beloved Grandpa Tom Kitch and is loved here on Earth, as well as in Heaven.
Logan graduated from White Pigeon High School with the Class of 2015. He was born in Three Rivers, and lived in Mottville. He enjoyed playing video games, taking pictures, traveling, doodling and loved hanging out with his friends.
Relatives and friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8pm Monday at Farrand Funeral Home, 300 N. Kalamazoo St., White Pigeon, where services will be at 10am Tuesday. Burial will follow in Mottville Township Cemetery. Lunch will be provided following the burial at Mottville Bible Church, 10455 U.S. 12, White Pigeon.

Nancy V. Christophersen, age 94, of Frankfort, MI, formerly of Jones, passed away Tuesday evening, January 8, 2019.

Nancy was born January 21, 1924, in Chicago, the daughter of Olin Almarian Rifenberg Sr. and Mae Phillips Rifenberg.

Surviving are Nancy’s five children; four daughters: Loma Bolt of Buford, GA, Carol Ratliff of Bainbridge, GA, Nancy (Vern) Pridgeon of New Braunfels, TX, and Jerilyn (Daniel) Koop of Greene, IA, one son: Chris (Renee) Christophersen, two half-brothers: Olen (Charlotte) Rifenberg Jr. and James (Donna) Rifenberg both of Jones, eleven grandchildren, twenty-two great-grandchildren, six great great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Nancy lived most of her life in Jones. Nancy received her diploma from Three Rivers High School in the 1980’s. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Newberg, a member of Howardsville Community Art League, and a member of South Lanes Sr. League at Three Rivers. Nancy was formerly a Deaconess, Sunday School Teacher, and member of Women’s Missionary Union in the church.

Nancy is preceded in death by; Her husband of 74 years Norman Christophersen, both loving parents, one sister “Violet”, one son-in-law, and two grandchildren.

The family will welcome friends for visitation on Monday, January 14, 2019, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the First Baptist Church of Newberg (Poes) with the funeral service at 12:00. A graveside service will follow and be held at Poe’s Cemetery. Memorial donation may be directed to First Baptist Church of Newberg. Online condolences may be left at www.materralstonfuneralhome.com.

Ilene A. Benthin, age 89, of Marcellus, passed away early Wednesday morning, January 9, 2019.

Ilene was born May 25, 1929, the daughter of Harry Gene and Susan Pearl (Tenny) Inman, in Athens, MI.

On September 15, 1950, Ilene married Marlan J. Benthin in Schoolcraft. Marlan passed away November 13, 2010. Together they were married for 60 years and had two sons: Ronald G. (Carol) Benthin of Marcellus and Donald G. (Deanna) Benthin of Schoolcraft, who survive.

Also surviving are; three sisters-in-law: Rosie Inman, Mary Benthin, and Glenda Inman, six grandchildren, four great grandchildren, one great great grandchild, and many nieces and nephews.

Ilene graduated from Union City High School in 1947 before moving to Marcellus in 1954. She was a member of Edwards Corners Bible Church. Ilene loved camping , tending to her flower garden, and spending time on the farm with her family.

Ilene is preceded in death by; both loving parents, one sister, and four brothers.

The family would like to welcome friends for a memorial visitation on January 15, 2019 from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Mater-Ralston Funeral Home, Marcellus. A private burial of cremains will be at Howardsville Cemetery at a later date. Memorial donations may be directed to Cancer Center of Donor’s Choice. Online condolences may be left at www.materralstonfuneralhome.com

Nancy Jane Maystead, age 84, of Sturgis, passed away Thursday evening January 10, 2019 at Sturgis Hospital.
She was born July 24, 1934 in Sturgis Township, daughter of the late LeRoy and Mildred I. (Clark) Phillips.
Nancy was a lifelong Sturgis resident and a graduate of Sturgis High School with the class of 1952.
On October 20, 1956 she married John H. Maystead at the Mintdale Women’s Club in Sturgis.
Nancy owned and operated the Off the Wall wallpaper shop in Centreville until her retirement.
She had been active in scouting serving as a Den Mother. She enjoyed knitting and over the years had knitted many hats and mittens for area mitten trees. Nancy loved time spent with her family.
She is survived by her husband of 62 years: John; one daughter: Peri Maystead of Sturgis; three sons: Douglas (Lisa Thornton) Maystead of Constantine, Michael (Jennifer Allen) Maystead of Palo Alto, California and Patrick Maystead of Sturgis; two grandchildren: Christopher Maystead and Laura Maystead both of Palo Alto, California.
In accordance with her wishes cremation has taken place and there will be no services.
The Hackman Chapel of Hackman Family Funeral Homes is entrusted with the arrangements.
The family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Mrs. Maystead’s memory consider St. Joseph County Animal Control, 652 E. Main St., Centreville, MI 49032.
The obituary is also at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com where personal messages of support may be left for the family.

Cora Mae (Cook-Hagerman) MacTavish, age 80, of Three Rivers, died Thursday, Jan. 10, 2019 at her home. She was born in Bellaire, MI on Nov. 9, 1938 the daughter of Richard D. and Ila Mae (Russell) Cook. She graduated from Three Rivers High School with the class of 1956. She was married to Robert Hagerman in 1956 and they were later divorced. Cora was married to James L. MacTavish in 1985 in Caro, MI.

Cora helped to set up the first respiratory therapy department at the old Three Rivers Hospital, and eventually became department director. Many years of healthcare followed at hospitals in Louisiana, Indiana, and Michigan. She was a Cub Scout, Boy Scout, and Girl Scout leader and was active in the PTA. She was a member of the Bethany Chapel where she was a Youth Program leader and Bible School teacher. She served as a board member of Scidmore Park. Cora enjoyed working in her garden and spending time outdoors. She especially loved her God, church, and church family, and was devoted to her immediate family.

Cora is survived by her husband, James L. MacTavish of Three Rivers; six children, Emilie (Stephen) Curtis and Kris (Kurt) Webb both of Three Rivers, Heidi (James) Griffin of Fairfax, VA, Elizabeth (Michael) Baker of White Sulphur Springs, WV, Tom (Marlene) Hagerman of Centreville, and Jesse Allen MacTavish of Three Rivers; 24 grandchildren including James Alexander MacTavish; 23 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great grandchild; daughters in law, Melody Sanders, Lori Munson, and Danielle Girard; sister, Nancy Bolinger; and special cousin, Beverly Harper. She was preceded in death by her parents; infant son, John David Hagerman; son, James Alan MacTavish; and grandson, Gage MacTavish.

The family will receive friends from 4 to 7 pm Tuesday at the Eickhoff Farrand Halverson Chapel, 305 Rock River Avenue in Three Rivers. Funeral services will be at  11 am Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2019 at Bethany Chapel, 15130 Millard Rd., Three Rivers with Pastor Tim Moore officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to either the Youth Program at Bethany Chapel, or to Three Rivers Health Hospice. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.efhchapel.com

Edith A. Thompson, age 92, of Three Rivers, died Thursday, Jan. 10, 2019 at Three Rivers Health. She was born in Onaway, MI on Sep. 29, 1926 the daughter of Phillip H. and Leona R. (Bailey) Sanger and attended school in Onaway. She was married to John David Thompson on April 7, 1945 in Akron, MI. They moved to the Fisher Lake area in 1960 and Edith worked at Continental Can Company and the Sears Store for several years. It was in Three Rivers that she proudly completed high school, graduating with the Class of 1975. They purchased the Travelers Motel in Paradise, MI in 1977, which they operated for the next ten years. After returning to Three Rivers to be closer to family, Edith did volunteer work and was a cook at the St, Joseph County Jail. She was a lifetime member of the United Methodist Church and active with the United Methodist Women at Center Park United Methodist Church. She enjoyed gardening, quilting, crocheting, and cooking for family functions.

Edith is survived by seven children, Arlene Thompson, Thomas (Karen) Thompson, and William (Margaret) Thompson all of Three Rivers, Robert (Linda) Thompson and Donald Thompson both of Mendon, Richard “Dick” Thompson of Centreville, and Alan Thompson of Coldwater; ten grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and by two of her fifteen siblings, Phyllis Hilliker of Vernon and Ethel Raphael of Alma. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John in 1991; and daughter in law, Lyle Thompson.

In keeping with her wishes, cremation has been conducted. The family will receive friends from 9 to 11 am Saturday, Jan. 19, 2019 at the Center Park United Methodist Church. Memorial services will begin at 11 am Saturday at the church with Pastor Marty Culver officiating. Interment will be in Parkville Cemetery. The family suggests that memorials be directed to either the Center Park United Methodist Church, or to the American Cancer Society. The family was assisted by the Eickhoff Funeral Home of Mendon. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com

David Arnold Green, age 82, of Jones, died unexpectedly on Sunday, Jan. 13, 2019. He was born near Minor Hill, TN on Aug. 17, 1936 the son of James Earl and Lillian Estelle (Pickett) Green. He graduated from Bodenham High School and later served in the U.S. Navy. David was married to Kathryn Louise Sayer on May 18, 1959 in Roseland, IN. She died on Oct. 25, 2014.

David worked in the R-V industry and for Ed Lowe in the 70’s. He retired from Three Rivers Public Schools where he was in the maintenance department for 19 years. He was a volunteer firefighter in Jones and served as Constable for several years. David was a Jack of All Trades, and mastered many skills. He was a cabinet and furniture maker, and assisted in numerous remodeling projects for his family. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and trapping. All will miss his great sense of humor.

David was married to Janette (Swihart) Kelley on May 21, 2018. She survives along with two children, Debra (Ken) Cupp of Mendon and James (Denise) Green of Jones; seven grandchildren, Angie Cupp, Jeff Cupp, Rebecca (Jason) Jackson, Danielle Gardener, Denice Anglemeyer, Donovan (Sarah) Gardener, and David James Green; 13 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; stepchildren, Jay (Laura) Kelley, Jr., Donna (Mark) Root, Jimmy (Serena) Kelley, Pamela (Mark) Stears; 13 step-great-grandchildren; 22 step-great-great-grandchildren; a brother, Michael Wayne (Deborah) Green; and 2 nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Kathryn; grandson, John Cupp; and step-daughter, Debbie Phillips.

The family will receive friends from 11 am to 1 pm Friday, Jan. 18, 2018 at the Moorepark Community Church, 55701 Wilbur Road, Three Rivers. Funeral services will begin at 1 pm Friday at the church with Pastor Vern “Bud” Granger officiating. Military interment will follow in Poe Cemetery near Jones. It is suggested that memorials be directed to either the Newberg Ambulance Service, or to the Three Rivers Fire Department. Arrangements were by the Eickhoff Funeral Home of Mendon. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.eickhofffuneralhome.com

Reedis Singleton, age 67, of Sturgis, passed away early Monday morning January 14, 2019 at his home.
He was born June 6, 1951 in Hazard, Kentucky son of the late Roy and Verna (Young) Singleton.
Reedis resided in Sturgis for the past 50 years coming from Kentucky.
On June 9, 1969 he married Darlene Gushwa in Sturgis.
Reedis was a dedicated employee of the Sturgis Foundry for 30 years where he held the position of Maintenance Foreman and he and Darlene owned and operated Brite-N-Clean Cleaning Service in Sturgis for 25 years. Before it became known as “flipping a house”, he and Darlene remodeled and sold several homes over the years.
He was a past member and President of Eagles Lodge #1314. For several years he played league fast pitch softball. He was a lifelong Cincinnati Reds fan and loved the Detroit Tigers. Reedis enjoyed watching re-runs of the Andy Griffith show, attending classic car shows and he was the proud owner of a 2003 Ford Mustang Saline. He loved sharing ice cream with his grandchildren and drinking coffee at Herrmann’s Restaurant.
He is survived by his wife of 49 years: Darlene; his children: Verna (David) Blanchard of Sturgis, Reedis (Nilka) Singleton of Whitestown, Indiana, Debra Singleton of Sturgis and Diana (Ken) Stone of Sturgis; eight grandchildren: Storm (Raechel) Singleton, December Blanchard, April Blanchard, Michael Singleton, Kaitlyn Stone, Emily Stone, Matthew Singleton, and Sarah Singleton; one great granddaughter: Sofia Singleton; two sisters: Nadine (Gordon) Caudill and Dicie (Larry) Smith both of Hazard, Kentucky; two brothers: Darrell (Beth) Singleton of Hazard, Kentucky and Otis Singleton of Nicholasville, Kentucky and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother: James Roy Whitaker and a special sister-in-law: Marlene Gushwa.
In accordance with his wishes cremation has taken place. A gathering of family and friends to celebrate and honor Reedis’ life will be held from 1:00 to 3:00 P.M. Saturday at the Hackman Chapel of Hackman Family Funeral Homes, 114 S. Nottawa St., Sturgis, MI 49091, 269-651-2331. A continued time of fellowship and the sharing of a meal will follow the gathering at the First United Methodist fellowship hall at 200 Pleasant Ave. in Sturgis.
The family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Mr. Singleton’s memory consider Three Rivers Hospice, 701 S Health Pkwy, Three Rivers, MI 49093.
The obituary is also at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com where personal messages of support may be left for the family.

Norman “Mike” D. Rumsey, 80, of Howe, Indiana formerly of Bronson, passed away on Friday, January 11, 2019 at ProMedica Coldwater Regional Hospital.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 15, 2019 from 3 until 7 p.m. at Dutcher Funeral Home in Bronson. A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, January 16, 2019 at 1 p.m. at Dutcher Funeral Home in Bronson with Pastor Tim Rowland officiating. Interment will be held at a later date.
Mike was born April 16, 1938 to Verl C. and Lea Mae (Burritt) Rumsey in Bronson. He enlisted in the United States Army on April 6, 1956 and was honorably discharged on February 6, 1958 as a Specialist Third Class. Mike had worked at Douglas Auto Tech in Bronson as a furnace operator and then as a forklift driver for over 40 years retiring in 2000.
He enjoyed trapping with his Dad, fishing, loved cutting wood, gardening, mowing grass, playing Racko and always helping others. He thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his family.
Mike is survived by his children; Leah Rumsey of Battle Creek, Christina Montgomery of Coldwater, Peggy (Gene) Bartolomea of Ohio, Tony Rumsey of Grand Rapids, Angelique (Don) Scheich of Dundee, Gina Martin of Coldwater, Michael (Gina) Rumsey of Wagener, S. Carolina, Paul (Catrina) Rumsey of Bronson, Dawn Gonser of Colon, Regina (James) Sites of Sturgis and Robert (Amy) Gonser of Mendon, his special friend; Rosie Wilbur of Coldwater, his 27 grandchildren and 31 great grandchildren; his brothers, Clifford (Donna) Rumsey of Bronson, Verl (Connie) Rumsey of Bronson, Ronald (Jeanne) Rumsey of Bronson and Carlon (Leota) Rumsey of Bronson. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters; Ida Mae Lampman and Sharon Martinez and one brother; Vernon D. Rumsey.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Branch Area Food Pantry in Bronson.
www.dutcherfh.com

George A. Mowat III, age 81. died on Sunday, January 13, 2019 at Heartland Healthcare Center in Three Rivers. He was born April 17, 1937 in Constantine a son of George and Elva (Schrock) Mowat II. George graduated from Constantine High School in 1956. He was employed at Eddie Paper Company in White Pigeon for 52 years.

Surviving are his daughters Melissa (Brian) Eritano, Sydney, Australia, and Arletta (Todd) Moore, White Pigeon, son Douglas Mowat, Three Rivers, grandchildren Dominic Eritano, Jasmine (Mowat) Swihart, Autumn Mowat, Blake Moore, Cierra Moore, great grandchildren Athena, Amorrah and Esteria, and brother Dale Mowat.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Richard Mowat and sister Mary Mowat.

Relatives and friends will be received Friday from 11 am to 1 pm  at Eley Funeral Home in Constantine, where services will follow at 1 pm. Pastor David Peterson, Centreville Baptist Church will officiate

Interment will be in White Pigeon Township Cemetery. Online messages may be left for the family at www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.

Rebecca “Becky” Sue Montcalm, age 70, of Three Rivers, passed away on Sunday, January 13, 2019 at Rose Arbor of Kalamazoo. She was born on July 25, 1948 to Walter and Miriam (McDonald) Gregory in Three Rivers.

Becky graduated from Three Rivers High School with the class of 1966. She was employed for many years at American Axle & Manufacturing Corp. She was a member of the Tennessee Walking Horse Association, the Underground Railroad Society of Cass County, and the Genealogical Society of Kalamazoo. She also loved her animals and especially her family, grandchildren, and close friends.

Mrs. Montcalm was preceded in passing by her parents, her husband, Donald Montcalm, and one brother, Norman Gregory.

Memories of Rebecca will be cherished by her children: Matt (Sarah) Montcalm of Three Rivers, and Valerie (Lenny) Smith of Paw Paw; grandchildren: Matthew and Brody Montcalm, and Gavyn and Tyler Boyer.

In accordance with the family’s wishes cremation has taken place and a public service will be held at Hohner Funeral Home of Three Rivers, on Friday, January 18, 2019 with visitation from 11:00 a.m. until time of service beginning at 12:00 noon with Reverend Brenda Deily officiating.

Memorials may be donated to the St. Joseph County Animal Rescue Fund (A.R.F.) or the Underground Railroad Society. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. Online condolences may be left at www.hohnerfh.com.

Mr. Eddie Earline Stokes, resident of Vicksburg, formerly of Fair Oaks, Arkansas, departed this life on Friday, January 11, 2019, at St. Vincent Infirmary in Little Rock, Arkansas, at the age of 84 following an extended battle with Primary Progressive Aphasia. Mr. Stokes was born in Fair Oaks on Tuesday, January 16, 1934, the son of Mr. Henry Bartholomew Stokes and Mrs. Lennie Mae (Ross) Stokes.

Eddie and the former Miss Margetta Fern Hancock were united in marriage on October 8, 1956, and Mr. Stokes proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1956 until 1958. In July 1966, the Stokes relocated to Michigan where they raised their family, and Eddie began work as a machinist with Humphrey Products Company. Mr. Stokes dedicated 27 years to work before his retirement in 1994. Mr. Stokes was a member of Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in Three Rivers, where he was immensely involved with any and all church activities, and served as pastor from 1969 to 1970. He also preached at several other churches in the surrounding area.

Mr. Stokes enjoyed time spent working with his hands in carpentry and metal fabrication, and in his younger years in Arkansas, he loved to hunt; especially frog hunting. Mr. Stokes will forever be remembered by his family and friends for his infamous dad jokes, magic tricks, and what a fun loving husband, brother, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather he was throughout their lives. Eddie was everyone’s favorite, and everyone was his favorite.

Mr. Stokes was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Lennie Mae Stokes; two sons, Dwayne and Wade Stokes; a brother, Clities Henry Stokes; and four sisters, Mamie Maebell Witcher, Jewell Jarrett, Gladys Smith, and Margaret Bell.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Margetta Stokes, of the home; a son, Henry Allen Stokes and wife, Kathya, of Effingham, Illinois; his favorite daughter, Margie Richards and husband, Daniel, of Constantine; three brothers, Freddie Stokes of Jonesboro, Arkansas; Ray Stokes of Fair Oaks, Arkansas; and Cecil Stokes of Cicero, Indiana; two sisters, Dorothy Humphrey of Pendleton, Indiana; and Faye Canady of Searcy; seven grandchildren, Angel and husband, Brian, Travis, Shane and wife, Tiffany, Jessie and wife, Christina, Caynan, Chanelle, and Stephanie and husband, Aaron; six great-grandchildren, Cecelia, Roy Jr., Wyatt, August, Ezra, and Olivia; four step great-grandchildren, John, Avi, Kaden, and Corey; and a host of other relatives and friends.

The family will receive friends from 11am until time of services at 12-noon on Saturday, January 19th, 2019 at the Calvary Missionary Baptist Church of Three Rivers with Pastor Kyle Foster officiating.

Interment will be held at Vicksburg Cemetery following services.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mr. Stokes’ honor to the National Aphasia Association www.aphasia.org. Envelopes available at the church and Hohner Funeral Home in care of arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.hohnerfh.com