Other obituaries
Betty Schuman Koch
1919 - 2017 Obituary
East Lansing - Age 97, Died on November 28, 2017 of natural causes after a long and fruitful life. She was born in Western Springs, Illinois to Carl Schumann and Lora Hall Schumann on December 12, 1919. When Betty was 17 years old her family was in a severe auto accident which only she and her sister Helen survived. She attended Carlton College and graduated from the University of Michigan and had a Masters Degree from Columbia University. In 1943 she married Henry Charles Koch in Mineral Wells, Texas. Betty and Henry were happily married for 60 years before Henry passed away. While her husband served in the US Army during World War II Betty worked in New York City as a Librarian. After the war Betty and Henry traveled throughout Europe for several years. Upon returning to the United States they started a family and lived in Baltimore, Maryland, Utica, New York and Cleveland, Ohio before settling in East Lansing, Michigan. Betty was a lifelong champion of feminist and civil rights and always let her feelings be known. She was an active member of The League of Women Voters and was involved with the Okemos Public Schools and served as Cub Scout Den Mother. Betty had the good fortune to maintain her physical and intellectual vigor until very near the end of her long life. The week before her 96th birthday she drove herself to the DMV to renew her driver's license. She was amused to note that she would not have to renew it again until she turned 100. Her greatest joys in life were her family, her friends and the world of music, literature and gardening. During her life she often traveled to Europe and the Mediterranean. Betty was preceded in death by her beloved sister Helen Schumann Heinzelman. She was survived by her son Henry Charles (East Lansing), son Thomas Carl and his wife Pamela (Harbor Springs) and their son Henry Grant (Williamston) and her cousin Nick Osmer and his wife Jane (Diablo,Ca). The family wishes to thank the kind staff of Burcham Hills Retirement Center where she spent the last year of her life. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to the East Lansing Public Library, 950 Abbot Road East Lansing, Michigan 48823.
The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, East Chapel. Online condolences may be expressed at www.greastlansing.com.
Published in Lansing State Journal on Dec. 10, 2017
Joan E. Oxender
Joan E. Oxender, age 85, formerly of Haslett, MI, passed away Sunday, April 9, 2017, at Orchard Grove Health Campus, Romeo, MI.
Surviving Joan are her daughters Barbara (Bill) Saar, Bratenahl, OH, Belinda (Tom) Wietor, Romeo, MI, Bethany (Michael) Reid, Grand Haven, MI; son Tom (Laurie) Oxender, Haslett, MI; eight grandchildren Tom and Katelyn Wietor, Lauren and Robbie Reid, Natasha (Geoff) Kimmerly, Kayla, Dylan and Taylor Oxender; and two great grandchildren Henry and George Kimmerly.
Relatives and friends will be received Saturday, April 15, 2017, at the Messiah Lutheran Church, Constantine, MI, at 10 AM prior to services at 11 AM. A luncheon will be served at Silver Spoons Catering, White Pigeon, MI.
The family requests no flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to University Hospitals Neurologic Institute - Stroke Center, P.O. Box 74947, Cleveland, OH 44101-9927, Attn: Dr. Michael Devereaux in Memory of Joan E. Oxender. Online messages may be left for the family at www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.
Published in Lansing State Journal on Apr. 11, 2017- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/lsj/obituary.aspx?n=joan-oxender&pid=185041614&fhid=8838#sthash.P3PiUWXQ.dpuf
Joan E. Oxender, age 85, formerly of Haslett, MI, passed away Sunday, April 9, 2017, at Orchard Grove Health Campus, Romeo, MI.
Surviving Joan are her daughters Barbara (Bill) Saar, Bratenahl, OH, Belinda (Tom) Wietor, Romeo, MI, Bethany (Michael) Reid, Grand Haven, MI; son Tom (Laurie) Oxender, Haslett, MI; eight grandchildren Tom and Katelyn Wietor, Lauren and Robbie Reid, Natasha (Geoff) Kimmerly, Kayla, Dylan and Taylor Oxender; and two great grandchildren Henry and George Kimmerly.
Relatives and friends will be received Saturday, April 15, 2017, at the Messiah Lutheran Church, Constantine, MI, at 10 AM prior to services at 11 AM. A luncheon will be served at Silver Spoons Catering, White Pigeon, MI.
The family requests no flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to University Hospitals Neurologic Institute - Stroke Center, P.O. Box 74947, Cleveland, OH 44101-9927, Attn: Dr. Michael Devereaux in Memory of Joan E. Oxender. Online messages may be left for the family at www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.
Published in Lansing State Journal on Apr. 11, 2017- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/lsj/obituary.aspx?n=joan-oxender&pid=185041614&fhid=8838#sthash.P3PiUWXQ.dpuf
Thelma M. Vandervoort
Okemos
Age 94, passed away February 12, 2017. Thelma was born October 24, 1922 in Rapid River, MI to Manfred John and Christine Josephine (Bergman) Bergquist. She met her husband during WWII on a blind date and later they married and moved to East Lansing where they lived for seven years and then Okemos for 63 years. She was a member of Okemos Community Church; loved to ski, travel, especially in the Upper Peninsula, enjoyed flowers and gardening.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert; brother, Evans Bergquist and sister, Virginia Vandervoort. Surviving is her daughter, Christine (Rick Othoudt) Vandervoort; sons, Robert (Sherrie) and Tom (Shelda) Vandervoort; nine grandchildren, Laurel (Emanuel) Papadopoulos, Natalie (Nicolas) Mitchell, Matt (Stephanie) Powell, Sophia Othoudt, Rob Vandervoort, Katie (Brian) Chapel, Jacob, Sara and Bradon Vandervoort; five great grandsons and one great granddaughter.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, February 18, 2017, 11:00 a.m., Okemos Community Church, 4734 Okemos Road, Okemos, MI with Rev. Rick Blunt officiating. Interment will be in Rapid River Cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday, February 17, 6-8 p.m., Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 1730 East Grand River Avenue, East Lansing and one hour prior at the church.
Those desiring may make contributions in memory of "Tommy" to Okemos Community Church or Calvary Lutheran Church, 10439 Wisconsin Avenue, Rapid River, MI 49878.
On line condolences may be made at www.greastlansing.com
Published in Lansing State Journal on Feb. 16, 2017
Gale E. Mikles
Gale Ellington Mikles passed away on Tuesday, January 17, 2017 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Born on October 24, 1927 to Fred and Rose Mikles in Tulsa, Oklahoma, he was the youngest of three boys. Howard and Truman predeceased their brother.
Gale married Audrey Ann Cromis on December 14, 1946 when they were both students at Michigan State University.
Gale attended MSU on a wrestling scholarship where he won AAU and NCAA championships. He was inducted as the only wrestler into the Charter Class of the MSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 1992. He earned Bachelor and Master's Degrees at MSU and a Doctorate in Education at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee.
Including his college years, Gale spent 37 years at MSU where he held the positions of Assistant Wrestling Coach, Assistant Athletic Director, and Dean of the Physical Education & Recreation Department. His last position was Athletic Director at the University of California, Davis, where he also participated in a resurgence of the wrestling team.
His passions in life were providing for his family, higher education and wrestling. The love of his life, Audrey, passed away in February 1998. He is survived by his four children:
Jeff Mikles, Auburn, CA.; Laurel Hutchison, Scottsdale, AZ, Cary Mikles, Denver, CO, and Kristen Beeter, Buckeye, AZ; seven grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; and long-time companion, Ruth Muenzer, Sun Lakes, AZ.
A memorial service will be held at Messenger Mortuary in Scottsdale, AZ. on February 11, 2017 at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, remembrances in Gale's name can be made to the Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org, 800-272-3900, or to PO Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090.
Gale Ellington Mikles passed away on Tuesday, January 17, 2017 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Born on October 24, 1927 to Fred and Rose Mikles in Tulsa, Oklahoma, he was the youngest of three boys. Howard and Truman predeceased their brother.
Gale married Audrey Ann Cromis on December 14, 1946 when they were both students at Michigan State University.
Gale attended MSU on a wrestling scholarship where he won AAU and NCAA championships. He was inducted as the only wrestler into the Charter Class of the MSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 1992. He earned Bachelor and Master's Degrees at MSU and a Doctorate in Education at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee.
Including his college years, Gale spent 37 years at MSU where he held the positions of Assistant Wrestling Coach, Assistant Athletic Director, and Dean of the Physical Education & Recreation Department. His last position was Athletic Director at the University of California, Davis, where he also participated in a resurgence of the wrestling team.
His passions in life were providing for his family, higher education and wrestling. The love of his life, Audrey, passed away in February 1998. He is survived by his four children:
Jeff Mikles, Auburn, CA.; Laurel Hutchison, Scottsdale, AZ, Cary Mikles, Denver, CO, and Kristen Beeter, Buckeye, AZ; seven grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; and long-time companion, Ruth Muenzer, Sun Lakes, AZ.
A memorial service will be held at Messenger Mortuary in Scottsdale, AZ. on February 11, 2017 at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, remembrances in Gale's name can be made to the Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org, 800-272-3900, or to PO Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090.
Phyllis Hargrave Hotaling
Okemos
age 93, passed away on January 21, 2017. Born July 23, 1923 on a farm in Okemos, she attended Button, a one room school through the 8th grade. She graduated from Okemos High School in 1941. Phyllis then attended Acme Business College in Lansing followed by employment at Oldsmobile and East Lansing State Bank. Her next employment opportunity was as secretary of Edgewood Elementary School in Okemos. She retired after 22 wonderful years and then moved to Traverse City where she spent 13 years. She enjoyed swimming in the bay at dusk, biking around town with her beloved dog Jessie, and singing in the Traverse Bay Area Sweet Adelines. She returned to Lansing to be closer to her family. Phyllis loved animals, singing and playing the organ, a good game of cards, and especially spending time with her family. She was a fun, generous, loving mother and grandmother, who will be greatly missed by all those who knew her. Preceding her in death were husbands; Clarence Hargrave and Robert Hotaling; and daughter Jacolyn Boughner. Phyllis is survived by daughters Jill (Dan) Richardson and Jan Jones (Duke Colgrove); Grandchildren Marc Richardson, Tracy (Chad) Urbain, Jessica (Jay) Thompson, and Kasey Jones; along with great-grandchildren Addison and Connor Thompson. A memorial service will be held on Monday, February 6, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home 1730 E. Grand River, East Lansing, MI. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Great Lakes Caring Hospice of Michigan, or First Church of Christ, Scientist 709 E. Grand River, E. Lansing, MI.
On line condolences may be made at www.greastlansing.com
Okemos
age 93, passed away on January 21, 2017. Born July 23, 1923 on a farm in Okemos, she attended Button, a one room school through the 8th grade. She graduated from Okemos High School in 1941. Phyllis then attended Acme Business College in Lansing followed by employment at Oldsmobile and East Lansing State Bank. Her next employment opportunity was as secretary of Edgewood Elementary School in Okemos. She retired after 22 wonderful years and then moved to Traverse City where she spent 13 years. She enjoyed swimming in the bay at dusk, biking around town with her beloved dog Jessie, and singing in the Traverse Bay Area Sweet Adelines. She returned to Lansing to be closer to her family. Phyllis loved animals, singing and playing the organ, a good game of cards, and especially spending time with her family. She was a fun, generous, loving mother and grandmother, who will be greatly missed by all those who knew her. Preceding her in death were husbands; Clarence Hargrave and Robert Hotaling; and daughter Jacolyn Boughner. Phyllis is survived by daughters Jill (Dan) Richardson and Jan Jones (Duke Colgrove); Grandchildren Marc Richardson, Tracy (Chad) Urbain, Jessica (Jay) Thompson, and Kasey Jones; along with great-grandchildren Addison and Connor Thompson. A memorial service will be held on Monday, February 6, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home 1730 E. Grand River, East Lansing, MI. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Great Lakes Caring Hospice of Michigan, or First Church of Christ, Scientist 709 E. Grand River, E. Lansing, MI.
On line condolences may be made at www.greastlansing.com
John (Jack) A. Bolton
Williamston
John (Jack) A. Bolton of Williamston age 89, passed away on January 17, 2017. Our loving father, grandfather and great grandfather has gone to be with the love of his life and wife of 62 years, who had preceded him in 2009. Jack and Marilyn (Tooley) were married on November 25, 1947. He was the son of John and Ruth Bolton of Haslett, from which he graduated.
He joined the military and served in Alaska, and upon coming home he began to work at the Lansing Oldsmobile Plant for more than 30 years. He was a member of the 652 Retirees and until recently was a very active member and past board member. He is survived by his daughter, Jackie (James) Wheeler of Williamston; son, Robert Bolton of Haslett, daughter-in-law Sandra Bolton; granddaughters, Jennifer Lloyd, Cheryl (Jason) Lockwood, Stasi Oliver, Laurie and Michelle Bolton; 11 great-grandchildren of whom he enjoyed watching in all of their sporting activities; and special friends, the "Okemos Mc Donald's" crew who met daily to drink coffee and chat.
Graveside services will be held Friday, January 20th 11: 15 a.m., at the Summit Cemetery, Williamston with the Rev. Dr. Herald Dumont officiating.
The family would like to acknowledge Dr. James Laberge for all of the wonderful care he has provided Jack over the years.
In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make memorial contributions in memory of John to Stoneleigh Residence of Hospice of Lansing, 3411 Stoneleigh, Lansing, MI 48910.
The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, East Chapel. On line condolences may be made at
www.greastlansing.com
Published in Lansing State Journal on Jan. 19, 2017- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/lsj/obituary.aspx?n=john-bolton&pid=183644361&fhid=11047#sthash.XCgJEpRI.dpuf
Williamston
John (Jack) A. Bolton of Williamston age 89, passed away on January 17, 2017. Our loving father, grandfather and great grandfather has gone to be with the love of his life and wife of 62 years, who had preceded him in 2009. Jack and Marilyn (Tooley) were married on November 25, 1947. He was the son of John and Ruth Bolton of Haslett, from which he graduated.
He joined the military and served in Alaska, and upon coming home he began to work at the Lansing Oldsmobile Plant for more than 30 years. He was a member of the 652 Retirees and until recently was a very active member and past board member. He is survived by his daughter, Jackie (James) Wheeler of Williamston; son, Robert Bolton of Haslett, daughter-in-law Sandra Bolton; granddaughters, Jennifer Lloyd, Cheryl (Jason) Lockwood, Stasi Oliver, Laurie and Michelle Bolton; 11 great-grandchildren of whom he enjoyed watching in all of their sporting activities; and special friends, the "Okemos Mc Donald's" crew who met daily to drink coffee and chat.
Graveside services will be held Friday, January 20th 11: 15 a.m., at the Summit Cemetery, Williamston with the Rev. Dr. Herald Dumont officiating.
The family would like to acknowledge Dr. James Laberge for all of the wonderful care he has provided Jack over the years.
In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make memorial contributions in memory of John to Stoneleigh Residence of Hospice of Lansing, 3411 Stoneleigh, Lansing, MI 48910.
The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, East Chapel. On line condolences may be made at
www.greastlansing.com
Published in Lansing State Journal on Jan. 19, 2017- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/lsj/obituary.aspx?n=john-bolton&pid=183644361&fhid=11047#sthash.XCgJEpRI.dpuf
Carolyn Rich Wickham
Wickham, Carolyn Rich, 87, of East Lansing, died August 1, 2016. Arrangements by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, East Chapel, East Lansing. Memorial services 11 a.m. Saturday at Plymouth Congregational Church, Lansing.
Published in Lansing State Journal on Aug. 5, 2016 - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/lsj/obituary.aspx?n=carolyn-rich-wickham&pid=180945233&fhid=11047#sthash.tSko1XF9.dpuf
Published in Lansing State Journal on Aug. 5, 2016 - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/lsj/obituary.aspx?n=carolyn-rich-wickham&pid=180945233&fhid=11047#sthash.tSko1XF9.dpuf
Annie "Ruth" Pecic
East Lansing, Michigan
11/30/1927 - 2/27/2016 age 88.Ruth was born in Kenton, Tennessee and currently lived in East Lansing, Michigan.
Daughter of John L. Ross and Lera Harris Ross; Brothers: Hershel Ross, Damon Ross; Sisters: Janet Pierce, Linda Shoaf.
She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother.
Ruth was married for 50 years to Command Sergeant Major James M. Pecic, Sr. (Deceased).
In 1967 she became one of the first female apartment complex managers in the local Okemos and East Lansing area. She worked for multiple management companies over the years until 2004.
She is survived by her two sons, James, Jr. and Steven, six grandchildren, and 15 great grandchildren.
There will be a visitation viewing on Tuesday 3/1/2016 between 3 and 5 pm at Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel, 325 W. Washtenaw St., Lansing, Michigan.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday 3/2/2016 at 11:00 A.M. in the Mausoleum at Saint Joseph Catholic Cemetery, 2520 W. Willow St., Lansing, Michigan.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lung Cancer Foundation of America or Great Lakes Caring Hospice.
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/lsj/obituary.aspx?n=annie-pecic-ruth&pid=177880493&fhid=12964#sthash.j9c1dQO5.dpuf
East Lansing, Michigan
11/30/1927 - 2/27/2016 age 88.Ruth was born in Kenton, Tennessee and currently lived in East Lansing, Michigan.
Daughter of John L. Ross and Lera Harris Ross; Brothers: Hershel Ross, Damon Ross; Sisters: Janet Pierce, Linda Shoaf.
She was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother.
Ruth was married for 50 years to Command Sergeant Major James M. Pecic, Sr. (Deceased).
In 1967 she became one of the first female apartment complex managers in the local Okemos and East Lansing area. She worked for multiple management companies over the years until 2004.
She is survived by her two sons, James, Jr. and Steven, six grandchildren, and 15 great grandchildren.
There will be a visitation viewing on Tuesday 3/1/2016 between 3 and 5 pm at Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel, 325 W. Washtenaw St., Lansing, Michigan.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday 3/2/2016 at 11:00 A.M. in the Mausoleum at Saint Joseph Catholic Cemetery, 2520 W. Willow St., Lansing, Michigan.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lung Cancer Foundation of America or Great Lakes Caring Hospice.
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/lsj/obituary.aspx?n=annie-pecic-ruth&pid=177880493&fhid=12964#sthash.j9c1dQO5.dpuf
Susan Copland
Susan Churchill Copland
Okemos
Susan Churchill Copland, 93, of Okemos, Michigan, died on February 21, 2016. She was born September 26, 1922 in Detroit, Michigan, to William and Marguerite Churchill. She is survived by son Robin (Cindy) of New York City, son William (Liz) of Lansing, granddaughter Eryn (Matt) McDonald, and step-grandchildren Cere Carrington, Jennifer (Jesse) Lothamer, and Kathrine Kelley. She was predeceased in 2011 by her husband of 66 years, Robert J. Copland.
Sue grew up in a vibrant Detroit, graduating from Cooley High School in 1940 and Wayne University in 1944. She married Robert Copland on August 8, 1945. After the war, they relocated to the Lansing area for Bob's education. She taught physical education and coached swimming and track at Lansing's Pattengill Jr. High from 1954-1983.
Adventurous and athletic from an early age, Sue was All-City in field hockey, and was on the swimming and tennis teams in high school. In later years, she enjoyed canoeing, kayaking, skiing, rollerblading, and ice skating well into her 80s. She was a 30-year member of the Lansing Ladies Silver Blades figure skating club.
She was active at Haslett Community Church and delivered meals to East Lansing area residents for many years. Both Sue and Bob were well known in nature and outdoor education circles for their knowledge of and enthusiasm for nature, especially trees, wildflowers, and birds. They led many a nature walk both in the Lansing area and on their beloved Grand Island on Grand Lake near Alpena. Many friends and family members formed treasured memories on their visits to Grand Lake, where Sue happily spent every summer.
The family will receive visitors from 6:00 to 8:00 on Thursday, February 25, at the Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home, 1730 E. Grand River Ave, East Lansing, MI. A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 26, at 11:00 a.m. at Haslett Community Church, 1427 Haslett Rd, Haslett, MI 48840. The family will also receive visitors at the church on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the service at 11:00 a.m. Online condolences may be sent to www.greastlansing.com. The family extends a thank you to the people at Burcham Hills for their care of both Bob and Sue.
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/lsj/obituary.aspx?n=susan-copland&pid=177820886&fhid=11047#sthash.f5CJDZD5.dpuf
Susan Churchill Copland
Okemos
Susan Churchill Copland, 93, of Okemos, Michigan, died on February 21, 2016. She was born September 26, 1922 in Detroit, Michigan, to William and Marguerite Churchill. She is survived by son Robin (Cindy) of New York City, son William (Liz) of Lansing, granddaughter Eryn (Matt) McDonald, and step-grandchildren Cere Carrington, Jennifer (Jesse) Lothamer, and Kathrine Kelley. She was predeceased in 2011 by her husband of 66 years, Robert J. Copland.
Sue grew up in a vibrant Detroit, graduating from Cooley High School in 1940 and Wayne University in 1944. She married Robert Copland on August 8, 1945. After the war, they relocated to the Lansing area for Bob's education. She taught physical education and coached swimming and track at Lansing's Pattengill Jr. High from 1954-1983.
Adventurous and athletic from an early age, Sue was All-City in field hockey, and was on the swimming and tennis teams in high school. In later years, she enjoyed canoeing, kayaking, skiing, rollerblading, and ice skating well into her 80s. She was a 30-year member of the Lansing Ladies Silver Blades figure skating club.
She was active at Haslett Community Church and delivered meals to East Lansing area residents for many years. Both Sue and Bob were well known in nature and outdoor education circles for their knowledge of and enthusiasm for nature, especially trees, wildflowers, and birds. They led many a nature walk both in the Lansing area and on their beloved Grand Island on Grand Lake near Alpena. Many friends and family members formed treasured memories on their visits to Grand Lake, where Sue happily spent every summer.
The family will receive visitors from 6:00 to 8:00 on Thursday, February 25, at the Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home, 1730 E. Grand River Ave, East Lansing, MI. A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 26, at 11:00 a.m. at Haslett Community Church, 1427 Haslett Rd, Haslett, MI 48840. The family will also receive visitors at the church on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the service at 11:00 a.m. Online condolences may be sent to www.greastlansing.com. The family extends a thank you to the people at Burcham Hills for their care of both Bob and Sue.
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/lsj/obituary.aspx?n=susan-copland&pid=177820886&fhid=11047#sthash.f5CJDZD5.dpuf
Terry Forsberg
Terry "T.A." Forsberg
Okemos
DECEMBER 23rd, Terry Forsberg (T.A.) passed away after a long illness.
Terry Albert Forsberg, known by his close friends as, "T.A." went to be with the Lord on December 23rd at the age of 86. Terry was born in Tustin, Michigan on May 8, 1929 to Charles and Hulda Forsberg and had three brothers Bob, Jay and Jack, and three sisters Betty Beatrice and Alberta. Terry graduated from Tustin High school in 1947 where he excelled in baseball and basketball. He married Beulah Strayer from Williamston, MI, in Angola, Indiana on December 23, 1950. After working for his brothers Bob and Jay for a short time, he went on his own and founded T.A. Forsberg, Inc. His company worked all over Michigan building underground utilities and roads. Terry became concerned with the safety of men working in deep trenches and finding ways to reduce the cost of installing underground utilities.
At this time he designed and engineered a new trench shoring system and founded Efficiency Production, Inc. that became the first company to manufacture and market a full line of trench shielding products for the US and Canada. In December of 2000, Terry and Beulah celebrated 50 years together at a special party arranged by their children. Beulah worked hard behind the scenes supporting Terry in whatever he did. She enjoyed entertaining Terry's friends and business associates. Beulah passed away in 2001.
Later in the early eighties Terry started T.A. Forsberg, Inc. of Florida together with Richard Wendorf and Ronald Judson, key employees. Terry was held in high regard by his construction peers and in 1990 was named President of the Michigan Road Builders Association.
In the early nineties, Terry phased out of the construction business in Michigan and focused more on the development of his real estate holdings. His grandson Brent is now President of Forsberg Real Estate and Development Co.
One of Terry's favorite summer places was Indian River, Michigan where he acquired a cottage on Burt Lake in 1970. He loved to watch the sun rise and set over Burt Lake and enjoyed fishing, hunting and golf with his sons, grandsons, brothers, and close friends. Many stories resulted from these hunting and fishing trips including a six week Safari to Kenya Africa in 1972.
In late 2002 Terry met Judy Rhinehart and they have been enjoying life together ever since. They have traveled and spent time together at homes in both Indian River, Mich. and Bradenton, Florida.
Judy's love and dedication during Terry's long illness was very much appreciated by his family.
Terry will be missed by his friends all over the country.
Terry is survived by his children Ken Forsberg, Dennis (JoAnn) Forsberg, and Faith (Mike) West; grandsons Jaysen (Carmen), Brent (Christel), Lance (Adrienne), Chad, Matthew and Cameron; granddaughters Emily, Farrin, and Catherine; great-grandsons, Cody, Chris, Jaysen Jr., Mitchell, Jameson; great granddaughters, Avery, Sophia, Rayna and Hadassah, Holly; his longtime partner, Judy Rinehart; and Judy's children, Janel Rinehart and Jeff Rinehart. Terry was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Beulah, and his grandson Branden Forsberg.
Funeral Services will be held on Monday, January 4, 2016 at 11:00AM at River Terrace Christian Reformed Church, 1509 River Terrace, East Lansing. The family will receive friends on Sunday, January 3, 2016 from 2pm to 4pm and from 6pm to 8pm at the Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 1730 E. Grand River Ave., East Lansing. Interment will follow in Summit Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, it was Terry's wish that memorial donations be made to Outdoor Warrior Adventure, ATTN.: Eric Speckin, 110 East Broward Blvd., 17th Floor, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 or online at helpvetsgofishing.com/speckin-charities/.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.greastlansing.com. - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/lsj/obituary.aspx?n=terry-forsberg&pid=177090231&fhid=11047#sthash.vojDwURd.dpuf
Rosemary Chaffee
Rosemary Chaffee, known to her friends and family as Romi, died peacefully on Dec. 15 2015 at the age of 92. She was born in San Rafael California on May 21, 1923, the daughter of Erica Prager and Frederick Rockwell. She married William Chaffee in 1948, (deceased). They made their home in Okemos, MI and became active members of Haslett Community Church.
She had 5 children; Carter Chaffee(deceased) (Amy), Carolyn (Randy) Good, Catherine (Richard) Collins, Gigi (Jack) Saunders and Robert Chaffee. She was also blessed with 15 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren.
Finishing her MA from MSU in 1980 Romi devoted herself to Teaching, Counseling and Spiritual Mentoring. At the age of 66 she fulfilled her life- long dream of becoming a minister, receiving her MS of Divinity from Chicago Theological Seminary. She served as Interim minister with UCC for over a decade before retiring to pursue her love of writing. She will be deeply missed by many whose lives she touched and enriched.
Memorial services will be held at the Haslett Community Church on April 16 at 11 am. Memorial contributions can be made to the Eaton Co. Palliative Care Facility at 2675 S. Cochran, Charlotte, MI 48813, where Romi spent her last days under their loving care. Condolences may be sent c/o her daughter, Gigi Saunders, at 6460 Highland Ridge Dr., East Lansing, MI 48823.
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/lsj/obituary.aspx?n=rosemary-chaffee&pid=177001793#sthash.9G6GNogn.dpuf
Rosemary Chaffee, known to her friends and family as Romi, died peacefully on Dec. 15 2015 at the age of 92. She was born in San Rafael California on May 21, 1923, the daughter of Erica Prager and Frederick Rockwell. She married William Chaffee in 1948, (deceased). They made their home in Okemos, MI and became active members of Haslett Community Church.
She had 5 children; Carter Chaffee(deceased) (Amy), Carolyn (Randy) Good, Catherine (Richard) Collins, Gigi (Jack) Saunders and Robert Chaffee. She was also blessed with 15 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren.
Finishing her MA from MSU in 1980 Romi devoted herself to Teaching, Counseling and Spiritual Mentoring. At the age of 66 she fulfilled her life- long dream of becoming a minister, receiving her MS of Divinity from Chicago Theological Seminary. She served as Interim minister with UCC for over a decade before retiring to pursue her love of writing. She will be deeply missed by many whose lives she touched and enriched.
Memorial services will be held at the Haslett Community Church on April 16 at 11 am. Memorial contributions can be made to the Eaton Co. Palliative Care Facility at 2675 S. Cochran, Charlotte, MI 48813, where Romi spent her last days under their loving care. Condolences may be sent c/o her daughter, Gigi Saunders, at 6460 Highland Ridge Dr., East Lansing, MI 48823.
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/lsj/obituary.aspx?n=rosemary-chaffee&pid=177001793#sthash.9G6GNogn.dpuf
Lucille Godfrey
Lucille Godfrey passed peacefully at home in the care of her family on November 4, 2015. Born on September 24, 1920 in Flushing, Michigan and a 1938 graduate of Lansing Central High, Lucille lived in Okemos for almost 50 years before moving to Kalamazoo in 2003. She took great pleasure in caring for her family and providing a lovely home. Lucille's gracious manner made her a trusted friend of many. Her service as a volunteer at Sparrow Hospital gave her joy and gave joy to those who visited the gift shop. Being an active member of Lansing Central Methodist, Edgewood UCC and Okemos Community Church fed her spirit and connected her with the community. She gave hope to many as a long term survivor of breast cancer.
She was preceded in death by Wilfred her husband of 67 years. Lucille is missed by her children Anne (Larry) Peretti, Lynn (Ralph) Heiden, Jane (Pete) Givens and David (Lindsay) Godfrey, six grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
A celebration of Lucille's life will be held at The Fountains at 1700 Bronson Way in Kalamazoo on Saturday December 5 beginning at 2:30 PM. Contributions may be made to the Lansing Food Bank, Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes or Planned Parenthood. - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/lsj/obituary.aspx?n=lucille-godfrey&pid=176402032#sthash.wVms5dME.dpuf
Lucille Godfrey passed peacefully at home in the care of her family on November 4, 2015. Born on September 24, 1920 in Flushing, Michigan and a 1938 graduate of Lansing Central High, Lucille lived in Okemos for almost 50 years before moving to Kalamazoo in 2003. She took great pleasure in caring for her family and providing a lovely home. Lucille's gracious manner made her a trusted friend of many. Her service as a volunteer at Sparrow Hospital gave her joy and gave joy to those who visited the gift shop. Being an active member of Lansing Central Methodist, Edgewood UCC and Okemos Community Church fed her spirit and connected her with the community. She gave hope to many as a long term survivor of breast cancer.
She was preceded in death by Wilfred her husband of 67 years. Lucille is missed by her children Anne (Larry) Peretti, Lynn (Ralph) Heiden, Jane (Pete) Givens and David (Lindsay) Godfrey, six grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
A celebration of Lucille's life will be held at The Fountains at 1700 Bronson Way in Kalamazoo on Saturday December 5 beginning at 2:30 PM. Contributions may be made to the Lansing Food Bank, Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes or Planned Parenthood. - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/lsj/obituary.aspx?n=lucille-godfrey&pid=176402032#sthash.wVms5dME.dpuf
Allen Ross Putvin
December 24, 1953 - July 22, 2015
Okemos, Michigan
Formerly of Shelby Township, Michigan
Age 61, died July 22, 2015 in Lansing, MI. Allen was a resident of Okemos for 8 years. He graduated from Manistique High School and Michigan Tech. Allen worked for 25 years at TRW, Sterling Heights location and retired from TRW in Portland, MI after a combined 30 plus years of service. He loved computers and home projects along with spending time with his family. Allen is preceded in death by his parents, William and Phyllis (Ross); sister, Pam Hoopes and her husband Rick; sister-in-law, Mary Putvin. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Elaine; daughter, Jennifer Putvin; sons, Kevin (Lauren) Putvin and Ross Putvin; brothers, Bradley (Diane) Putvin and Greg (Susan) Putvin; sister, Patty Jo (Ken) Dykman and several nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held Saturday August 15, 2015 at 4:00 p.m. Please contact the family for location. For those desiring, contributions may be made to Christ Lutheran Church, 122 S. Pennsylvania, Lansing, MI 48912 or Okemos Community Church, 4734 Okemos Rd., Okemos, MI 48864 in memory of Allen or by donating blood to the American Red Cross. The family is being served by the Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 1730 E. Grand River Ave., East Lansing. Online condolences may be shared at www.greastlansing.com.
December 24, 1953 - July 22, 2015
Okemos, Michigan
Formerly of Shelby Township, Michigan
Age 61, died July 22, 2015 in Lansing, MI. Allen was a resident of Okemos for 8 years. He graduated from Manistique High School and Michigan Tech. Allen worked for 25 years at TRW, Sterling Heights location and retired from TRW in Portland, MI after a combined 30 plus years of service. He loved computers and home projects along with spending time with his family. Allen is preceded in death by his parents, William and Phyllis (Ross); sister, Pam Hoopes and her husband Rick; sister-in-law, Mary Putvin. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Elaine; daughter, Jennifer Putvin; sons, Kevin (Lauren) Putvin and Ross Putvin; brothers, Bradley (Diane) Putvin and Greg (Susan) Putvin; sister, Patty Jo (Ken) Dykman and several nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held Saturday August 15, 2015 at 4:00 p.m. Please contact the family for location. For those desiring, contributions may be made to Christ Lutheran Church, 122 S. Pennsylvania, Lansing, MI 48912 or Okemos Community Church, 4734 Okemos Rd., Okemos, MI 48864 in memory of Allen or by donating blood to the American Red Cross. The family is being served by the Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 1730 E. Grand River Ave., East Lansing. Online condolences may be shared at www.greastlansing.com.
Arnold Jeffrey Witte
September 8, 1951 - September 18, 2015
Obituary
64, of Lansing, former Lansing Community College director of custodial operations, died Sept. 18. There will be no services. Arrangements by Riley Funeral Home.
September 8, 1951 - September 18, 2015
Obituary
64, of Lansing, former Lansing Community College director of custodial operations, died Sept. 18. There will be no services. Arrangements by Riley Funeral Home.
Robert "Van" Vandervoort
February 1, 1921 - September 19, 2015
Okemos, MI
Robert Vandervoort, 94, of Okemos, passed away September 19, 2015. He was born on February 1, 1921 in Battle Creek, MI to Charles Mendel and Julia Eloise Dehn Vandervoort, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Virginia Vandervoort.
He was a mechanical engineer and worked for Hager-Fox in Lansing, then Michigan Kitchen Distributors in Flint. Van was very active with Kiwanis and Habitat for Humanity in his retirement years, and also loved to ski and fish. Surviving to cherish his memory are his wife, Thelma M. Vandervoort; son, Robert (Sherrie) Vandervoort; daughter, Chris (Rick) Othoudt; and son, Tom (Shelda) Vandervoort; nine grandchildren; five great grandsons; his brother, William Vandervoort; and family friend, Bob Green. A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 25 at 11 a.m. at Okemos Community Church, 4734 Okemos Road, Okemos, MI 48864. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity, 1941 Benjamin Dr., Lansing, MI 48906 in memory of Mr. Vandervoort. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.greastlansing.com.
February 1, 1921 - September 19, 2015
Okemos, MI
Robert Vandervoort, 94, of Okemos, passed away September 19, 2015. He was born on February 1, 1921 in Battle Creek, MI to Charles Mendel and Julia Eloise Dehn Vandervoort, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Virginia Vandervoort.
He was a mechanical engineer and worked for Hager-Fox in Lansing, then Michigan Kitchen Distributors in Flint. Van was very active with Kiwanis and Habitat for Humanity in his retirement years, and also loved to ski and fish. Surviving to cherish his memory are his wife, Thelma M. Vandervoort; son, Robert (Sherrie) Vandervoort; daughter, Chris (Rick) Othoudt; and son, Tom (Shelda) Vandervoort; nine grandchildren; five great grandsons; his brother, William Vandervoort; and family friend, Bob Green. A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 25 at 11 a.m. at Okemos Community Church, 4734 Okemos Road, Okemos, MI 48864. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity, 1941 Benjamin Dr., Lansing, MI 48906 in memory of Mr. Vandervoort. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.greastlansing.com.