Jack H. Chambers, Died May 29, 2018

Jack H. Chambers

Died May 29, 2018

SUTTONS BAY – Jack Henry Chambers, 88, of Suttons Bay, passed away Tuesday, May 29, 2018 at home surrounded by his loving family.

Jack was born Oct. 8, 1929 in McMillan, MI the son of Samuel H. Chambers and Zella F. (LaBar) Chambers.  After high school Jack served in the U.S. Army during WWII in the U.S. occupational forces in Japan.  He later joined the Marine Corps and served during the Korean Conflict.  He served as an armorer and rifle coach while in the services.

Jack returned to Michigan became a skilled heavy equipment operator and life-long member of the  International Union of Operating Engineers Local 324, A, B, C & D.  He could operate any tracked vehicle and was one of a few skilled operators to operate the Model 6 North West Drag Line. 

He was a deputy sheriff for Luce County, MI, a member of the mounted patrol and a Corporal for the Grand Traverse Band Tribal Police. 

Jack was an excellent musician, there wasn’t a string instrument he wasn’t proficient at.  He wasn’t just good at many instruments but proficient at them.  Jack could play the mandolin, guitar, banjo, bass, fiddle among other instruments and sometimes he would join bands and play with them for hours.

Jack’s musical artistry and recordings have been archived with the Smithsonian Institute.  His musical artistry was also featured in two documentaries, “Good Man in the Woods and Medicine Fiddler.”

Jack is survived by his children, Jack C. (Linda) Chambers, James G. (Audrey) Chambers, Joseph S. Chambers, Sr.; his grandchildren, Clayton J. Chambers, Anita K. (Carl) Melberg; Andrew S. Riutta, Lynette (Gregory) Kempf; Deanna M. Chambers, Brianna L. Chambers; Joseph (Becky) Chambers Jr., Jacob K. Chambers; Desmond (Anita) Berry; his great grandchildren, Jessica, Jordan, Christopher, Alexander, Issabella, Brenna, Brandon, Kara, Kyle, Rose, Kallie, Jayce, Alexis, Jacob, Josh, Leilah, Joey, Angelica, Brandon, Kristen and Kaleb.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Rose Chambers in 1989; a daughter, Rosemary Antoine in 2017; and his siblings, Vera, Kenneth, Hazel, Rae, Jerald, Edith, Wilford, Phyllis, Milton, Dewayne and Clinton.

Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to the 1 p.m. funeral service at the Beaulieu Funeral Home of Newberry on Monday, June 4.  Burial in Forest Home Cemetery, Newberry, MI will follow.  After graveside services, friends are welcome to a luncheon at River of Life Church, Newberry.

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Candace L. Nedow, Died May 24, 2018

Candace L. Nedow

1986-2018

SUTTONS BAY – Candace Lee Nedow, 31, of Suttons Bay, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, May 24, 2018 at her home.

Candace was born on May 26, 1986 in Traverse City, the daughter of Joel T. Nedow and Carol J. (Bunek) Stowe, who survive.

Strong-willed and fiercely independent, Candi lived her life on her own terms.  It was not uncommon for her to put other’s happiness ahead of her own and once she considered someone her friend, she would give them the clothes off her back if they were ever in need.  Those who knew her best were constantly reminded of her quirky sense of humor and her endless supply of smart-&#@ remarks and comebacks she always had for any occasion!   

Candi attended Leland Public Schools where she excelled in softball and basketball during her playing career.  She especially prided herself on her ability to give her favorite teacher, Ed Wodek, as much grief as humanly possible.  Upon graduating, Candi attended Northern Michigan University where she received dual Associate degrees in Art History and Marketing.  She spent several years living in the Marquette area, especially enjoying and exploring the Lake Superior shoreline and hiking the many trails with her furbaby Caeser, who was her constant companion before moving back to Leelanau County. 

In addition to her parents, Candace is survived by her brother, Wade Nedow; stepmother, Julie; stepfather, Steve; paternal grandmother, Mary Nedow; paternal grandparents, John and Marge Bunek; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and especially her furbaby, Caeser.

She was preceded in death by her paternal grandfather, William Nedow.

A Celebration of Candace’s life will be held on Sunday, June 10 at the Lake Leelanau St. Mary’s Church basement from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Instead of flowers, the family is asking those who will be attending the Memorial Service to bring a bag or cans of dog food for the Cherryland Humane Society in Candi’s memory.

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Mark W. Holtz, Died May 25, 2018

Mark W. Holtz

Died May 25, 2018

NORTHPORT – Mark Walter Holtz, 60, of Northport passed away Friday, May 25, 2018 at his family home.

Mark was born June 14, 1957 in Oak Park, Illinois, the son of Raymond and Louellyn (Meinke) Holtz.  On April 25, 1981 he married his best friend Susan M. Galante, who survives.

Mark was known as an honest, caring and incredibly hard-working man.  A lifelong mechanic, there wasn’t a car or boat that he couldn’t handle.  For 26 years, he and Susan co-owned and operated Northport Bay Boat Yard with Mark’s family. When they retired in 2009, they became avid travelers with their motorhome, exploring the United States. They were happiest in Marathon, Florida.

After traveling for five years, Mark wanted to be near boats and the water again so he became Northport’s Harbor Master. He thoroughly enjoyed mentoring his dockhands and talking with the boaters,  his friends. For over 30 years, Mark was also a volunteer for the Leelanau Township Fire Department, where he became lifelong friends with many.

Mark loved spending time in his ever so organized garage with his family and friends. If you were to be in Northport, you would find Mark and Susan happily riding in their golf cart daily. Mark loved his NASCAR racing and reciting lines from all of his favorite movies.

Mark was a loving family man, who cherished his wife and children. He treasured being Bailey and Owen’s Papa.

Mark is survived by his loving wife of thirty-seven years ("370 years"), Susan; his children, Timothy Holtz, Kristen (Brad Krolik) Holtz, Meghan (Bryan) Morgan; two sisters, Rae Ellen (Don) Thyer, Caryl (Jim) Fancher; Dana Nielsen; his dog Rosie; and his beloved grandchildren, Bailey Holtz and Owen Morgan.

He was preceded in death by his parents, mother in law, Patricia Galante and his dog, Haley “Hale-Bop.”

The family will greet friends from 4 to 8 p.m. with a sharing of memories at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 6 at the Martinson Funeral Home of Suttons Bay.  A celebration at the Northport Marina will be held on Sunday, June 24 at 12 noon.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Leelanau Township Emergency Services, PO Box 338, Northport, MI 49670.

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Mary J. Siddall, Died May 16, 2018

Mary J. Siddall

Died May 16, 2018

LELAND – Mary Joan Siddall, 86, of Leland, passed away Wednesday, May 16, 2018 at Effie’s Assisted Living surrounded by her loving family.

Mary was born Feb. 5, 1932 in Ottumwa, Iowa the daughter of Michael J. Grogan and Bernice G. (Eason) Grogan.  On Sep. 11, 1954 in Chariton, Iowa she married D. Gene Siddall who preceded her in death on May 12, 2013.

Mary’s kindness and patience were incarnate.  Mary did attend and graduate from Iowa State University, where she met Gene, and earned a Bachelor’s in Science degree in Dietetics in 1954.

While moving fourteen times in the early years of her and Gene’s marriage, Mary became, and remained, the glue that held the family together.  The kids fondly remember Mac and Cheese Fridays and Mary’s Brownie Waffles topped with ice cream on Sunday evenings.  They also remember eating so much tuna fish casserole, that it felt like year-round lent at the Siddall house!

Mary was not a natural athlete, but taught herself to snow ski, bowl, and golf because Gene liked it.  The two of them spent many days out boating together.  She was a skilled bridge player and was an active member of the Tri-Delta Sorority.  Every time she moved, she would find a local chapter and join—even if only for a month.

She was musically talented, playing the trombone, violin and piano.  She imparted the love of music to her children, and she even taught her husband, Gene, to play the piano piece, Claire de Lune.  Mary loved to sing and would join the choirs at each parish she attended during her many travels.

Mary’s character was built on kindness, faith, and a deep unwavering love for her family. She was loved by all that knew her.

Mary is survived by her seven children, Katherine (Hayward) Draper, Jane (William) Lievense , Stephen (Stacia) Siddall, Mary Anne (Khosrow) Parvaresh, William Siddall, Mark (Deirdre) Siddall, John (Nicole) Siddall; eighteen grandchildren, Christopher, Michael, Betsy, Laura, Jacob, Niklaus, Samantha, Michael, Stephen, Sarah, Andrew, Christine, Emma, Joseph, Bernard, Samuel, Maddie, and Ella; and eleven great-grandchildren, Ethan, Nyala, Stirling, Calvin, Malcolm, Peter, Gordon, Sal, Piper, Emmett, and James.

Mary was preceded in death by her sister, Rita Donelle Cusack.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. with a 7 p.m. Rosary on Friday, June 1 at the Martinson Funeral Home of Suttons Bay.  A mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 2 with the family greeting friends at 10 a.m. at St. Mary of the Assumption in Lake Leelanau.  After the Mass, there will be a procession to and burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery.  Fr. Bryan Medlin will serve as celebrant.

Memorials in Mary’s honor may be directed to St. Mary Church, P.O. Box 340, Lake Leelanau, MI 49653.

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Judith Denoyer Died May 23, 2018

Judith A. Denoyer

Died May 23, 2018

LAKE LEELANAU – Judith Arlene Denoyer, 78, of Lake Leelanau went to be with the Lord Wednesday, May 23, 2018 at Medilodge of Leelanau surrounded by her loving family.

Judy was born Nov. 11, 1939 in Bay City, the daughter of Wilbur and Hazel (Loose) Walling.  On June 13, 1992 at the Old Settlers Park in Glen Arbor she married Dennis A. Denoyer, who survives.

Judy and her sister, Jean, grew up in Bay City, where their parents ran a funeral home in the early years.  Then Wilbur and Hazel moved to Alden and became cherry farmers.  Their cousins would come up every summer to spend time in the orchards.

Judy loved studying scripture and being faithful to God. She always had a love for the water; she would spend time in the sun, listening to the waves, and hunting for heart shaped stones. Her gardens were very special to her, and she enjoyed looking out her window to watch the birds.

She took great pride in her home. She loved to decorate, rearrange furniture, and update the interior. Her doors were always open, though, it felt like a new home every visit.

She and Dennis loved taking road trips to Frankenmuth and Sault Saint Marie. Together they would sit and watch the boats coming in and out of the Locks and wave to the sailors. They loved their Polka music and would go to festivals for the concerts and dancing.

She would spend hours on the phone with her family. Judy lived a full life raising her children, later becoming a doting grandmother and great-grandmother. She enjoyed her circle of friends from her church, and the connection they shared.

Judy is survived by her husband, Dennis Denoyer; her children, Julia (Peter) Coleman, Joni McCondra, Jeannette Safronoff, Jimmy Conway II, Jacqueline (Lawrence) Schaub, stepson Frank (Addie) Denoyer; her grandchildren, Chad, Christopher (Wai Ting), Donald, Drew, Haley, Tiffany, Christina, Jimmy III, Wade, Caine, Jeremiah, Clayton, Jordan and Lonnie; her greatgrandchildren, Rory and Alex, and a baby boy on the way; along with nieces, nephews and cousins.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Wilbur and Hazel (Loose) Walling, her brother-in-law, Dick Hoxie, and her son-in-law, Stephen McCondra.

The funeral service will be held at 12 noon on Friday, June 1 at the West Side Community Church with the family greeting friends at 11 a.m.  Burial in Helena Township Cemetery, Alden will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Medilodge of Leelanau, Attn: Resident Activities Fund, 124 W. Fourth St, Suttons Bay, MI 49682 and/or Hospice of Michigan, 10850 E. Traverse Hwy, Suite 1155, Traverse City, MI 49684.

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Edith W. Farnham Died May 21, 2018

                                                     Edith W. Farnham
                                                    Died May 21, 2018

TRAVERSE CITY - Edith May Farnham, 98, of Traverse City, passed away Monday, May 21, 2018 at the Willows Cottage with her loving family at her side.Edith was born in Belle Plaine, Iowa, on May 12, 1920 the daughter of Christian and Mary (Carlsen) Jensen.

Edith attended 1st grade in Hartley, IA, until the family moved to Sutherland, IA, where Edith graduate from high school in 1937. After staying home for one year to help in the family home, she attended Morningside College Conservatory of Music in Sioux City, IA, for two years. She then transferred to the Lawrence College Conservatory of Music in Appleton, WI, where she received her Bachelor of Public Schools Music degree in 1942.

Edith enjoyed teaching vocal and instrumental music in the public school and directing community summer band concerts in Belmond, IA. It was there that she met and married Leland Lieuwen in 1944. Though they were farming she was able to continue teaching part time in neighboring schools for a number of years. They also spent a couple of years farming at Corwith, IA.

They left Corwith and moved to Kirksville, MO, to assist family members in the operation of the Mitchell Dairy Company following the accidental death of Edith’s older brother. While Leland was in the service during WWII, Edith helped on the family farm driving the tractors, cultivating corn and soybeans. When Leland returned from service, they continued farming in Corwith. While living in Corwith, Edith took flying lessons and earned her pilots license in 1954. Due to irresolvable differences the couple divorced in 1955.

Edith worked in Nebraska for a few months and then moved to Hammond, IN, where she had accepted a contract teaching vocal music in the city schools. Edith was thrilled to live in the Chicago area. Here she and her friends enjoyed attending operas, symphonies, plays, musical productions, and concerts of all kinds.

In 1960 Edith married Dr. Edward Watson and moved to Lexington, NE, where his medical practice was located. A year later, Edith’s prayers were answered when they were given the opportunity to adopt a baby girl, Mary Jane. They lived in Lexington until 1967 when they moved to Seward, AK.

In Seward she was an organist for the Resurrection Lutheran Church. Edith directed the community choirs and helped with other musical productions. The family fell in love with Alaska and were sad when they had to move back to the states in 1972, due to Ed’s failing health. They made their home in Hastings, NE, near Ed’s parents. Edith was able to continue teaching music in the public and district schools in Hastings. It was here that Ed died in 1978.

On June 1, 1985 she married F. William Farnham and they decided to make Hastings their home. She was kept very active with volunteer work, something she always said filled her retirement years with much happiness. Her family also brought much joy to her life, her loving daughter, and loving step-children.

Edith was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Hastings where she was an ordained deacon. She was honored by the Presbyterian women for her volunteer work in the church as well as the community. Other organizations to which Edith belonged include Kappa Delta Sigma Iota International Music Fraternity for Women, Eastern Star, Shrine Hospital Auxiliary, Daughters of the Nile, PEO Chapter EM. She was also an associate member of the Suttons Bay Congregational Church. Edith moved to Suttons Bay, MI to be near family in 2004 following Bill’s death. Like many previous places that she lived, Edith quickly made friends with the SB Congregational and PEO families. She was a school grandmother extraordinaire attending her grandchildren’s various school events.

Edith is survived by her daughter, Mary J. Hartman; stepsons, Ted (Emma) Watson and Ed (Katie) Watson Jr.; a sister, Maryellen Dietz; a brother, James Jensen; six grandchildren, Matthew, Ryan, and Sarah Hartman, Geoffrey, Ann, and Ted Watson Jr.; two great-grandchildren, Adeline and Virginia Watson; and many loving nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Edward Watson; her husband, Bill Farnham; two brothers, Herluf and Norman Jensen; a sister, Anna Jordan; a grandson, Aaron Watson; and brother-in-law, Robert Dietz.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, May 31 at the Martinson Funeral Home of Suttons Bay. The funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, June 1 at the Suttons Bay Congregational Church. Rev. Dr. Robin Long will officiate. Burial in Parkview Cemetery, Hastings, NE, will be held at a later date.

Memorials may be directed to Suttons Bay Congregational Church, PO Box 70, Suttons Bay, MI 49682 and/or Grand Traverse Pavilions Resident’s Fund, 1000 Pavilions Circle Dr., Traverse City, Mi 49684 and/or Munson Hospice c/o Munson Healthcare Regional Foundation, 1150 Medical Campus Dr., Traverse City, MI 49684.

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John Riley Beck Died May 7, 2018

John Riley Beck

1952 ~ 2018

John Riley Beck, 65, of Empire, passed away peacefully to join his mother and father in Heaven on May 7, 2018.

John was born on Oct. 8, 1952 in Traverse City, the son of Lyle and Ardith (Lake) Beck.

John was a fun-loving jokester that always brought a smile to your face, he had a big heart and would help out anyone in need.  He will be remembered and missed by all that knew him.  John will always remain a legend of Empire and Stormer Road.

John is survived by his dog and best friend, George; brother, Ed Beck; uncle, Erwin Beck; stepson, Jake Schaub; nephew, Jason Ihme and family; caregivers and best friends, Jack Gardner and the late Cheryl Sweet.

Many thanks to Dawn Kantz and Robin Shoenheit (ACT Team), Steve Swagger (Helplink and Glen Lake Church), Food Pantry, Meals on Wheels, Shelly and staff of Hospice of Michigan, Munson Medical Center, and Glen Lake and Empire Fire Dept.

A gathering in his honor will be announced at a later date.  He will be laid to rest at Maple Grove Cemetery next to his parents.

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David W. Reincke, Died May 16, 2018

David W. Reincke

Died May 16, 2018

BINGHAM TOWNSHIP – David William Reincke, 82, of Bingham Township, passed away Wednesday, May 16, 2018 at home.

David was born July 5, 1935 at the family farm in Bingham Township.  On Sep. 7, 1957 he married Marjorie L. (Orcutt) Reincke, at the Keswick United Methodist Church.

David graduated from Suttons Bay High School and then served as Air Police in the U.S. Air Force.  He was a hard working man, on the family farm and in many other endeavors.  David worked for the old “Ma Bell”, climbing telephone poles with the spiked boots.  He was a security guard in Lansing.  David also was a route salesman for Pepsi, Coca-Cola, Vernors and Made Rite.

He worked on his family farm and also for Staneks Orchards and in their processing plant and also for Underwood Farms.  David was a skilled wood worker in his later years.

David is survived by his wife of sixty years, Marjorie; his children, Terri Lynn (William) Siefen, Debra Jean Moore, John Edwin Reincke, Elizabeth Ann (David) Whitt, James Brophy; two siblings, James (Janice) Reincke, Catherine Talley; his grandchildren, Christian Siefen, Eric Reincke, Matthew Pelshaw, Jennifer Monroe, Cordy, Jolin, Cale, and Jaxon Brophy and two great grandchildren, Violet Auxter and Lilly Monroe.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Marjorie (Lindley) Reincke, a granddaughter, Lindsey Jacobs and a brother, Daniel Reincke.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, May 24 at the Keswick United Methodist Church, 3376 S. Center Highway, Suttons Bay, MI 49682.  Burial will follow in Keswick Maple Grove Cemetery.  Pastor Patricia Haas will officiate.

Memorials may be directed to Michael’s Place, 121 Veterans Drive, Traverse City, MI 49684, Meals on Wheels, 3963 3 Mile Rd N, Traverse City, MI 49686 and/or Cherryland Humane Society, 1750 Ahlberg Road, Traverse City, MI 49686.

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Mark L. Carlson, Died May 14, 2018

Mark L. Carlson

Died May 14, 2018

TRAVERSE CITY – Mark Lee Carlson, 57, of East Bay Township, passed away Monday, May 14, 2018 at Munson Medical Center.

Mark was born July 3, 1960 in Traverse City the son of Donald R. Carlson and Lois B. (Tharp) Carlson.  On April 2, 2009 in Providence, Rhode Island he married Tamara “Tammy” G. (Miller) Carlson, who survives.

Mark was a kind, generous, loving gentle giant.  He was a mischievous joker who loved his rock-n-roll and his friends even more.  Mark had a strong work ethic, driving every day from East Bay to the Carlson Family farm to work. 

Along those drives to work, he would take photos of flowers, the sunrise, the water, the natural beauty of our area.  Mark would then share the beauty of nature with his beloved Tammy.  Every day, for the nine years of their marriage, he brought coffee to his wife, and would send flowers via cell phone text. 

Mark was a University of Michigan and Detroit Red Wings fan; and he and Tammy loved to bowl.  He was an avid rock collector and passionate garage sales lover.  He was generous in giving his time and love to his family.  He called his aunts all the time and would help them out as often as needed.  Mark talked to his dad, Don, every night—even on the weekends.  Asking his father how he is doing, has he had dinner yet and what are his plans for the weekend.  If Don was not doing well, Mark would pack a bag and drive to the family farm and spend the night.

Mark was a man whose character was built on a foundation of a strong yet private faith, a staunch work ethic, helping others in need and a deep unwavering love for his family.

Mark is survived by his loving wife, Tammy; a son, Grant Carlson; his father, Donald; a brother, Bruce; three step children, Dylan Shay, Brent Bridgman and Tyler Bridgman; a nephew, Andy (Rebecca) Carlson, a great nephew, Landen Carlson; a great-grandson, Dakota Shay; three aunts, Ruth Tharp, Elsie Corl and Zeno Tharp, his life-long friend, Jeff Canute; and his four legged fur babies, Buff, Gertie and Harley.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Lois on Aug. 31, 2017.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, May 18 at the Martinson Funeral Home of Suttons Bay.  The funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 19 with visitation starting at 2 p.m. also at the funeral home.  Burial in Leelanau Township Cemetery will be at a later date.  Pastor Jerry Lange of the Northport Covenant Church will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Mark’s honor may be directed to Cherryland Humane Society, 1750 Ahlberg Road, Traverse City, MI 49686

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Walter W. Daniels Died May 9, 2018

Walter W. Daniels

Died May 9, 2018

MAPLE CITY – Walter William Daniels, 89, of Maple City, passed on Wednesday, May 9, 2018, at Munson Hospice House.

Walter was born on August 6, 1928 in Milwaukee, WI, the son of Walter and Agnes (Burmeister) Daniels.  On August 26, 1950 he married Maureen K. Hill, who survives.

In 1951 Walter graduated from Carthage College in Illinois and began his career as an insurance agent.  Walt found the closest place to Heaven in 1965 when he discovered Leelanau County.  He acquired some property and rental cabins on Little Traverse Lake. He spent the next 20 years commuting from his job in Ann Arbor as a commercial liability insurance agent and coming home for long weekends to his family and the log cabin home that he built.  When he retired he became involved in the Cleveland Township zoning administration, board of appeals and planning commission, 1990-1992.  From 1992-2004 Walt served as Cleveland Township Supervisor. From 2008-2012 he had the position of trustee before retiring.  He loved fishing, hunting and searching for morels.  Walt enjoyed woodworking and made beautiful furniture which he happily distributed to many family members.  He was an avid reader of history and biographies and he loved watching a good Western.  His quick wit and sense of humor will be missed by all who knew him. 

In addition to his loving wife, Maureen, of 68 years, Walter is survived by his children, Lori (Mark) Wegener and Mark Daniels; nine grandchildren, Matt, Emily, Grace, Wyatt, Luke, Wade, Olivia, Jacob, and Jessica; one great-grandson, Benjamin; and sisters, Gloria Benedict and Carol Gripentrog. 

He was preceded in death by his sons, Jack and Jim. 

A private family service has been held and burial at Cleveland Township Cemetery will be at a later date.

The family is very grateful to Munson Hospice Care and all of the services and comfort care that was provided.  Memorials may be directed to Munson Hospice House c/o Munson Healthcare Regional Foundation, 1150 Medical Campus Drive, Traverse City, MI 49684.

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Sharon L. Thomas, Died May 10, 2018

Sharon L. Thomas

Died May 10, 2018

NORTHPORT – Sharon Lee Thomas, 74, of Northport, passed away on Thursday, May 10, 2018 at Medilodge of Leelanau.

Sharon was born June 2, 1943 in Grand Rapids and was raised by her mother, Margaret (Anderson) Verreau and step-father Tillis J. Verreau in Northport.  On May 6, 1967 at the Trinity Church of the United Church of Christ she married Frederick Harry Thomas Jr., who survives.

After Sharon and Fred’s marriage they moved to Flint where they managed an apartment complex.  They moved back to Northport to raise their family.  In Northport she worked at North Port Pointe and was a nurse’s aid at the former Leelanau Memorial Hospital in Northport.

Sharon enjoyed fishing, yardwork and retirement in Northport.  She especially enjoyed trips to Florida to see family.

Sharon is survived by her husband of fifty-one years, Frederick; two sons, Kevin A. Thomas and Frederick J. Thomas III and a half-brother, Lynn Vereau.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister in infancy.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 2, at the Trinity Church of the United Church of Christ in Northport.  The family will greet friends at 10 a.m. and a luncheon will follow the memorial service.  Pastor Phil Garrison will officiate.

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Walter M. Gaudette Jr., Died May 8, 2018

Walter M. Gaudette Jr.

Died May 8, 2018

OMENA – Walter Madsen Gaudette Jr., 88, of Omena passed away at home on Tuesday, May 8, 2018 comforted by his family.

Walter was born July 26, 1929 in Jackson, Mississippi the son of Walter Sr. and Ruth (Davis) Gaudette.  On Sep. 19, 1950 he married Beverly Jean (Patrick) Gaudette, his loving wife of sixty-sevenyears, who survives.  Early in their marriage, Walter and Beverly moved to New Jersey while Walt was serving in the Army.  When Walt was sent to Germany, Beverly moved back to Michigan to await the birth of their first child.

Walter was a gifted engineer, without any formal training, who worked at General Motors for 30 years.  During his interview with GM, the interviewer discovered that Walter had designed a part already in a GM manual and was hired on the spot as an electrical engineer.  Walter’s inclination for invention resulted in many patents which allowed him to retire early in 1983.

Walter and Beverly purchased the Omena Inn in the late 1970’s and spent many years traveling between downstate and Omena to restore the dilapidated inn on the weekends. Walt and Beverly were able to move to Omena full time in the early 1980s where Walt loved to sail and help his neighbors.

Walter would often volunteer his skills and time helping his neighbors with their projects, instead of attending to projects at home, much to Bev’s dismay!  Walt was a lifelong sailor who enjoyed time out on the bay.  Walt’s boats also loved to sail and occasionally left shore without him.  Walter’s favorite part about being in Omena was spending time with his family and friends on the beach or having dinner on the deck.

Walter is survived by his loving family including his wife, Beverly; his three daughters, Julie (David) Flones, Jennifer (Tom) Wood, Jeanette (Nick) Maylen; and three grandchildren, Trevor (Sarah) Maylen, Andy (Laura) Wood and Libby Maylen.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother, Charles Gaudette.

Private family services have been held and a celebration of Walter’s life will be July 26th at his home on Omena Pt. Rd.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Walter’s honor may be directed to Bethany Lutheran Church, PO Box 567, Northport, MI 49670 and/or Leelanau Christian Neighbors, PO Box 196, Lake Leelanau, MI 49653.

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Robert A. DeYoung Jr., Died May 4, 2018

Robert A. DeYoung Jr.

Died May 4, 2018

GRAND RAPIDS – Robert Alan DeYoung Jr., 46, of Grand Rapids, passed away Friday, May 4, 2018 at Blodgett Hospital in Grand Rapids.

Robert was born April 18, 1972 in Grand Rapids the son of Robert Alan DeYoung Sr. and Rita Joan McSawby.  Robert was a member of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, earned his GED and studied at Northwestern Michigan Community College.  He was a self-taught tattoo artist and painter using various media including canvas, oil paint, tattoo ink, metalwork, and woodwork.  He was tribal fisherman who learned the trade from Don Chippewa.

Robert “loved trees”, woman with tattoos, nature, running in the woods with dogs.  He was a jokester with his family, calling his sister out of the blue and saying “deez-nuts”, laughing and then hanging up.

He was an avid snow boarder and motocross rider; Robert loved a good bonfire and had a green thumb.  Robert was very protective of his nieces and an excellent Italian cook.

Robert is survived by his parents, Robert Sr., Rita (Ron) Trudeau; his children, Robert, Sylvester, Shanondin; a sister, Salena Rivera; a granddaughter, Cecilia; and many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Lorraine Lovell.

A gathering of friends will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, May 9 at the Martinson Funeral Home of Suttons Bay,

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Larry J. Walter DIed May 3, 2018

Larry J. Walter
Died May 3, 2018

SUTTONS BAY – Larry James Walter, 69, of Suttons Bay, passed away Thursday, May 3, 2018 at Munson Medical Center.

Larry was born Nov. 16, 1948 at Munson Medical Center the son of James L. Walter and E. Fern (Behm) Walter.

Larry graduated from Suttons Bay High School with the Class of 1966 and served in the U.S. Army Reserves. He owned and operated his own business, Peninsula Painting ,for many years. Larry then owned and operated a long time Suttons Bay landmark, Wales Quality Cleaners.

He was an avid, life-long Michigan State University Spartans fan. Larry loved watching Spartan sports along with the Detroit Tigers and Lions. Larry loved watching Perry Mason, Gunsmoke, and The Three Stooges on TV or the movies The Goonies and the Pirates of the Caribbean. He loved solving crossword puzzles and listening to the blues on the satellite radio.

Larry was a life-time member of the VFW Cherryland Post 2780 of Traverse City and the Traverse City Fraternal Order of Eagles 383.

Larry is survived by his mother, E. Fern Walter; his best friend, Alice O'Connor; and his daughter, Kimberley Walter.

He was preceded in death by his father, James L. Walter.

A celebration of Larry’s life will be held on Saturday, May 19 at 3 p.m. at the VFW Cherryland Post 2780, Traverse City. Private family burial in Keswick Maple Grove Cemetery will be held at a later date.

Please share thoughts and memories with Larry’s family below or on our Facebook page.

James L. Kareck Died April 28, 2018

James Louis Kareck passed away on April 28, 2018, with his wife by his side.  Jim and Joan have been enjoying their retirement years in Leland, just north of Traverse City, Michigan.  Jim was an avid outdoorsman who loved to play golf, fish, and maintain his home.  He served as an Assistant in the Pro Shop at the Leland Country Club, where he proudly assisted countless golfers and scheduled matches. 

Jim was born in Grand Rapids on July 14, 1932.  He was an only child who grew up helping work the family farm.  After graduating from Union High School in Grand Rapids, Jim’s college career was paused when his country called upon him to serve. Jim proudly accepted his duty to serve in the US Army, which took him to Italy as a Military Police Sergeant. Upon his return, he completed his education and received a Bachelor’s degree from Albion College and a Master’s degree from Michigan State University.  Jim took a job teaching at Flint Central High School with an emphasis in physical education and biology.  He also coached the swim and golf teams, both of which earned multiple state championships.  His students hailed him as a motivator and mentor. He retired from Flint Central after 34 years.  During summer vacation, he would take his family on extended camping trips to Moore’s Campground on Lake Leelanau.  These getaways were the inspiration for Jim and Joan’s decision to retire in Northern Michigan.

Jim leaves behind his loving wife, Joan, of 58 years.  He is also survived by his three children:   Julie, John (wife Beckie), and David (wife Jenny).  His grandchildren are Kyle, Sarah, Josiah, Colton, Owen, Tatum, and his great grandson, Wesley.  He loved emailing his grandkids and hearing about their individual performances in school.  Even after Jim retired from teaching he continued to educate his children and grandchildren about life.

A Memorial Service will be held in the fall.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Leelanau Conservancy, P.O. Box 1007, Leland, MI 49654.