Linda J. Lane

Died October 6, 2015

NORTHPORT – Linda Janet Lane, 78, of Northport, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2015 at Tendercare of Leelanau.  

Linda was born on July 31, 1937, Pontiac, MI, the daughter of Robert and Hope (Rogers) Fenchel. 

Linda will be remembered by all who knew her as a kind and gentle spirit that tread lightly on this earth.  She took great joy in the simplicity and beauty of the natural world surrounding her.  Linda had an innate artistic gift that represented itself in many various mediums her entire life.  She dearly loved the dogs and cats that shared different times of her life, as well as all creatures great and small in existence.

My dear mother always told me, “Love you forever and always”.  I, as her daughter, echo the same to her spirit which will surround me and always be held in my heart.

Linda is survived by her daughter, Kerry M. Emery; grandson, Christopher David Lane; special cousin, Connie Podleski; special friend, Melanie Bowen; and many additional cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Private family services will be held a later date.

Memorials may be directed to Leelanau Twp. Public Library, P.O. Box 235, Northport, MI 49670 and/or to the Cherryland Humane Society, 1750 Ahlberg Road, Traverse City, MI 49686.

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Jack F. Magaw

Died October 15, 2015

 

NORTHPORT – Jack Franklin Magaw, 77, of Northport, passed away Thursday, Oct. 15, 2015 at his home.

  
Jack was born March 5, 1938 in Portsmouth, OH the son of Frank and Margaret (Syme) Magaw.  On Feb. 3, 1989 in Leland he married Linda Ann (Egerton) Magaw, who survives.

  
Jack graduated from Ohio State University in 1961 and was an avid fan.  He is dearly loved by his wife, children and grandchildren.

  
Jack is survived by his wife, Linda; four children, Jack K. Magaw, Amy Magaw Taylor, Betsy Magaw Jenkins, Polly Magaw (Craig) Keene; and five grandchildren, Kathryn Hodges, Jack Taylor, Erin Jenkins, Andrew Taylor and Sam Jenkins.

  
 He was preceded in death by his parents.

  
 Private family services have been held.

  
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Elinor J. McNeil

Died Oct. 10, 2015

 

LAKE LEELANAU — God received a special angel in heaven when Elinor June McNeil, 86, of Lake Leelanau, passed away Saturday, Oct. 10, 2015 at Joy Givers Assisted Living surrounded by her loving family. Elinor was born Jan. 26, 1929 in Cadillac, the daughter of Edward and Francis (Seamon) Schuster and grew up in Long Lake.

  On June 25, 1953 at St. Mary’s Church of Lake Leelanau, she married Arthur William McNeil Sr., who preceded her in death on Jan. 19, 2008. After marriage Elinor spent the rest of her life in Lake Leelanau, where she raised her six children.

 Elinor was a woman of deep faith in Christ and she shared that with her children. She taught them to live a simple life, full of kindness, honesty, compassion, strength, hard work, faith and love. She was gracious, kind, dependable and most of all, loving. Elinor touched the lives of everyone she met, whether it was for a brief moment or someone she had known her whole life. She never spoke an unkind word to or about anyone even in the most adverse circumstances. She was always positive, enjoying every moment God gave her. She was a true model of a Proverbs woman.

  Elinor had a passion for bingo, going wherever she needed to play. Lifelong friendships were made there. She also worked hard fighting for the elderly in Leelanau County, being heavily involved with Meals on Wheels and the Commission on Aging. Elinor enjoyed listening to country music, loved euchre and spent countless hours with family and friends. She didn’t mind if she won or lost, it was the relationships that mattered to her. She was a lifelong Detroit Tigers fan - this is where we learned the word “patience,” and that it was all about the love of the game.

  Never having a driver’s license she could be seen walking to church, bingo and NJ’s Grocery and was really happy as each child was old enough to drive. She had a great sense of humor and would make her family laugh with her favorite sayings, “Good deal, McNeil,” and “Get ‘er did!” while giving a thumbs up!

  One’s legacy can affect several generations and the one Elinor left will be treasured and stand the test of time. That legacy can be lived out through her family and all who are reading this obituary. Say good things, do good things, think good things and love Jesus. That is the best way to honor her, then in heaven she will hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

  Elinor is survived by her six children, Arthur (Marsha) McNeil, of Traverse City, Deb (Greg) Warnes, of Glen Arbor, Dave (Kristie) McNeil, of Traverse City, Bob (Rose) McNeil, of Cedar, Patricia (McNeil) Norconk, of Cedar, and Cindy McNeil, of Traverse City; 11 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

  In addition to her husband of 54 years, Elinor was preceded in death by an infant son, Joseph McNeil; sisters, Evelyn Schuster and Lois Spires; a brother, Edward Schuster; and foster parents, Alva and Carol Cox.

  A gathering will be held on Thursday, Oct. 22 from 5 to 8 p.m., at the Martinson Funeral Home of Suttons Bay. The funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, Oct. 23, at 11 a.m., at St. Mary’s Church in Lake Leelanau. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Father Michael Janowski will serve as celebrant.

  Memorials may be directed to Senior Services, 8527 E. Government Center Dr., Suite 106, Suttons Bay, MI 49682; Meals on Wheels, 3963 Three Mile Road, Traverse City, MI 49686; and/or Samaritans’ Closet, 25 S. Lake Leelanau Dr., Lake Leelanau, MI 49653.

  The family would like to thank Joy Givers for the excellent care they gave to Ellie. She loved you all very much. We are also grateful to Hospice of Michigan for the care and compassion they showed Ellie in her final weeks. Thank you to everyone who touched her life!

  She held on as long as she could but she knew she had us right where she wanted us: together.

  “As long as we can love each other, and remember the feeling of love we had, we can die without ever really going away. All the love you created is still there. All the memories are still there. You live on – in the hearts of everyone you have touched and nurtured while you were here.” — Morrie Schwartz

  Please share memories with the McNeil family at www.martinson.info.

  Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Leelanau.



Linda M. Holt

Died Oct.14, 2015

PESHAWBESTOWN – Linda Marie Holt, 66, of Peshawbestown, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2015 at Tendercare of Leelanau.

Linda was born on May 6, 1949 in Traverse City, the daughter of Harry Judson and Elizabeth T. (Gibbs) Southbird.  In 1983 in Grand Rapids, she married Ricky Lynn Holt.

Linda was a very loving and caring mother and was always there to help everyone, friends and family alike.  She raised her grandchildren after the death of her daughters and will be truly be missed.

Linda is survived by her children, Calleen Floyd, David R. Russell, and Nebin Floyd; siblings, Joanne M. Smith-Fox, Jeannette E. Judson-Pierce, Ronald Harry Judson, Rosemary Judson-Johnson, Elizabeth J. Gibbs, Debra A. Gibbs-Fox, and Cheri L. Gibbs-Olvera; 12 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. 

She was preceded in death by her daughters, Sandra K. Floyd-Sanchez and Kathleen Lisa Floyd; grandsons, Augustine Lee Floyd and Nebin Michael Gutierrez-Floyd; siblings, Barbara (Smith) Toothman, Leroy M. Judson, and Bartlett D. Gibbs; nieces and nephews, Charlotte, David, Rodney, Brandi, and Nikkita.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, Oct. 15 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Linda’s home on Beems Kwa-Ma Mi-Kun, Peshawbestown.  Visitation will continue on Friday, Oct. 16 from 2 to 8 p.m. with a wake service at 6 p.m. also at her home.  The funeral service will be held on Saturday, Oct. 17 at 1 p.m. at the Strongheart Center, Peshawbestown.   Burial will follow at Kewadin Indian Mission Cemetery.  Pastor Tom John will officiate.

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Theresa Walter

Died October 11, 2015

SUTTONS BAY – Theresa Walter, 90, of Suttons Bay, passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side on Sunday, Oct. 11, 2015 at the Munson Hospice House. 

  Theresa was born Aug. 11, 1925 in Bingham Township to Andrew and Mary (Novak) Sharnowski.  Theresa attended the stone school house and St. Mary’s School in Lake Leelanau.

  Theresa left home for employment in a defense plant in Detroit.  Later she worked in Muskegon but her father’s declining health prompted her return home.  In 1947 she married Albert Walter at St. Mary’s Church.

  Theresa then began employment at the court house in Leland, working at the County Agents Office and the Soil Conservation Service.  Later, she accepted employment with the Leelanau County Department of Social Services where she worked for 32 years.

  Theresa enjoyed the simple life, gardening, volunteering, quilting, scrapbooking, antiquing, family gatherings, and Sunday drives.  Albert and Theresa helped organize the VFW in Leelanau County.  The family always enjoyed special times, numerous picnics and road trips.

  Our mother, Theresa, did as Mother Teresa advised, “Do ordinary things with extraordinary love.”  The family would like to thank the caring staff at Orchard Creek, Munson Medical Center and the Munson Hospice House for their compassion towards our dearest Theresa.

  Theresa and Albert raised twelve children; Joyce, Lois (Duane) Sudol, Victor (Sue), Kathleen, George (Sally), Margaret (Allen) Reece, Marvin (Linda), Ronald (Sue), Glenn (Kathie), Elaine (Ricky) Herman, Matthew (Nanette) and Mark (Sandra): she is also survived by a sister, Pauline (Gerald) Walters, an aunt, Sister Mary Maximilia, and many beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, in-laws, cousins and friends.

  She was preceded in death by her husband of fifty one years, Albert; a sister, Joanna Furst; two brothers, Steve and Stanley; a son, Ron; a daughter-in-law, Patti (Houdek), a son-in-law, Allen and a grandson, Adam Reece.

  Visitation will be held on Friday, Oct. 16 from 4 to 8 p.m. with the rosary to be prayed at 7 p.m. at the Martinson Funeral Home of Suttons Bay.  The funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday, Oct. 17 at 11 a.m. at St. Michael’s Church, Suttons Bay.  Burial will be held at a later date in St. Michael’s Cemetery.  Father Leonard Paul will serve as celebrant.

  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Father Fred Foundation, P.O. Box 2260, Traverse City, MI 49685; Leelanau Christian Neighbors Food Pantry, P.O. Box 32, Suttons Bay, MI 49682; and/or Mass Intentions.

  Please share memories and condolences with Theresa’s family online at www.martinson.info.

  Arrangements are with Martinson Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Leelanau.

Landon S. Anderson

2015

PESHAWBESTOWN - Landon Santigo Anderson, 2 months old, of Peshawbestown, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2015 at Munson Medical Center.

Landon was born on July 31, 2015, in Traverse City, the son of Angelina Raphael and Jordan Anderson.

We will remember the way you loved your twin brother, big sister and enjoyed being around your family.

In this short time, Landon taught us to love deeper and the importance of strong family bonds. We will never forget his beautiful eyes that deeply connected with the world around him, noticing every little detail. Landon will truly be missed by all.

Landon is survived by his parents; maternal grandfather, Joaquin Alfonseca; and grandmother, Sandra Raphael; paternal grandmother, Renee Gilbride; siblings, twin-brother, Alexander Trey, Ava; and half-brothers, Echo and Jerdan; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his maternal great-grandmother, Elsie Raphael; and great-grandfather, Howard Raphael; uncle, Antonio Alfonseca; paternal great-grandmother, Josephine Anderson; and great-grandfather, Eric Anderson; and grandfather, Thomas Anderson.

Graveside services will be held on today at 2 p.m. at the Leelanau Township Cemetery, Northport. Joseph “Buddy” Raphael will officiate.

Memorial donations may be directed to Landon’s family to obtain a gravestone.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.martinson.info.

Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.

 

 

Josephine M. Leabo

Died October 1, 2015

 
SUTTONS BAY – Josephine Mary Leabo, 81 years young of Suttons Bay, passed away Oct. 1, 2015 peacefully in her sleep.  She was alert that evening listening to stories of her passed mother with many smiles of fond memories. She was known as Josie, Jo, or Grandma Leabo to most of her family and friends.  She joined her Lord on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2015 while resting at Cherry Hill Haven, The Nest in Traverse City.
  Josie was born on Sept. 25, 1934 in Detroit, the daughter of Michael and Mary (Pollaccia) Bica.  On April 28, 1956, in Detroit, she married Peter Allen Leabo who survives.
  Josie was a full time homemaker and book keeper for their farm and construction company.  She enjoyed quilting, writing letters and cards, gardening, flower arranging, square dancing and caring for her family.  The most enjoyable times for Josie were being surrounded by family and friends.  She loved entertaining and everyone was welcome in her home.  She frequently traveled to the Detroit area to spend time with her mother, with whom she shared a very strong bond. 
  Josie was a member of the St. Michael's Alter Society her entire adult life where she devoted much of her time as a sunshine girl writing cards to parish members for various occasions.  She also helped the church with flowers, making funeral lunches, and teaching religious classes for youth.   
  Most importantly Josie was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother.  Her sweet, kind, gentle way and constant smile will be missed by all who knew her.
  In addition to her husband of 59 years, Josie is survived by her children, Michael Peter (Shari) Leabo, Peter John (Kathleen J. Smith) Leabo, Sherri (David) Crider, John Gregory Leabo, and Mary McManemy; eleven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and siblings, William (Bernice) Bica, James (Bonnie) Bica, and Michael (Judy) Bica.
  The family wishes to thank The Nest of Cherry Hill Haven for the care Josie received.  We appreciate the many staff who provided kindness, compassion and comfort to her and our family over the past 2 and a half years. 
  Visitation will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 6 from 4 to 8 p.m. with the rosary to be prayed at 7 p.m. at the Martinson Funeral Home of Suttons Bay.  The funeral mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 11 a.m. at St. Michael’s Church, Suttons Bay.  Burial will follow at St. Michael’s Cemetery and a luncheon at St. Michael's parish hall.  Father Leonard Paul will serve as celebrant.
  Memorials may be directed to St. Michael’s Altar Society, P.O. Box 9, Suttons Bay, MI 49682 and/or to the Suttons Bay - Bingham Fire & Rescue, P.O. Box 280, Suttons Bay, MI 49682.
  Please share memories and condolences with Josie’s family online at www.martinson.info.
  Arrangements are with Martinson Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Leelanau.

 

June D. Busby

Died September 26, 2015

Floral City, FL – June Dalphine Busby, 87, formerly of Steamboat Springs, CO and Northport, passed away Saturday, Sep. 26, 2015 in Florida.

  June was born June 17, 1928 in Kewadin the daughter of Chase and Maude (Nemec) Morgan. 

  June graduated from Northport High School with the Class of 1946.  June married Kenneth W. Busby on December 5, 1947, they moved between Detroit and Traverse City for several years before moving back to Northport to raise their family.  June cared for her parents and younger siblings after a severe accident left her mother temporarily disabled.

  June and her husband owned and operated the cabins now known as Baypointe Cottages in Northport for about 15 years from the late 1950’s through the early 1970’s.  June also worked as a cook at Shady Trails Camp in Northport during the 1970’s.

  She left Northern Michigan in 1995 to live with her daughter Cheryl in Colorado; she wintered in Florida with her daughter Donna.  June lived in Florida permanently from 2012 to 2015. 

  June was an unselfish person with a gentle loving heart and an infectious laughter.  She loved her family, nature and animals.  She will be greatly missed by her family.

  The family extends their sincere thanks and gratitude to the staff at Citrus County Hospice House whose compassion and professionalism provided wonderful care for mom in the final days of her life.  A special thank-you to Robin Peterson who assisted and cared for mom over the last 9 months.

  June is survived by her sons, Larry (Marty) Busby of Suttons Bay, Brian Busby of Inverness, FL; her daughters, Donna (Pete) Griffin of Floral City, FL, Cheryl Oliver of Steamboat Springs, CO; her brothers, Norman and Jeff Morgan; her sisters, Sandy, Abby, Teta, Margo and Mary Jo; five grandchildren, Shannon, Shawn, Robert, Jessica and Chase; three great grandchildren, Evan, Emily and Chase; and beloved little dog, Coco.

  She was preceded in death by her parents, and two brothers, Milton and Dick Morgan.

  Private family services have been held.

 

  Please share memories and condolences with June’s family online at www.martinson.info.

  Arrangements are with the Martinson Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Leelanau.



Elotia R. Durdel

Died September 29, 2015

TRAVERSE CITY – Elotia Ruth Durdel, 93, of Traverse City, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2015 with her family at her side.

Ruth was born in Woodville Township, Ohio to Willis and Lydia (French) Rollins, child number seven in a family of nine children. She married Richard Paul Durdel on April 7, 1942 in Sandusky, Ohio. Richard and Ruth had four children: John, James, Linda, and David.

In the early 1950’s, the family moved to Greilickville, and later to Suttons Bay where Ruth owned a home on the hilltop at Lakeview and 633 for many years. Ruth was an avid baseball fan (Go Tigers!) often keeping stats of the game on paper, a habit she passed on to her children.

She was on a bowling league for many years, proudly displaying her bowling trophies in her home.  A longtime member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Traverse City, Ruth was a dedicated servant to the Lord, and volunteered for multiple organizations over the years.

As a family, we will always remember her spunky spirit, her peanut butter fudge at Christmas, and her love of word search puzzles.

Ruth is survived by her son, David (Cheri) Durdel; her grandchildren, Holly Durdel, Matthew Durdel, Koby (Sarah) Homan, Scott (Cynthia) Homan, Lindsay (Chris) LePow, Meredith Aleccia; and 7 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; her sons, John and James; daughter, Linda Homan; as well as her parents and siblings.

Her family and friends will have a celebration of her life at Trinity Lutheran Church in Traverse City on Saturday, Oct 3 at 2pm.  The Rev. Robert Zagore will officiate.  Burial in Gibsonburg Union Cemetery will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that Ruth be remembered by contributions to Trinity Lutheran Church, 1003 S. Maple St, Traverse City, MI 49684 and/or Munson Hospice House, 1105 Sixth Street, Traverse City, MI 49684.

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