Saturday, April 11, 2026

 Dora Jean Burke

    Her Legacy… Dora Jean (Johnson) Burke, 78, passed away March 13, 2026. She was born on July 6, 1947, in Detroit, Michigan, to Albert and Lois (Cook) Johnson. Dora met the love of her life, James Burke, 63 years ago. They were married on September 10, 1967. She will be remembered as a kind and family-oriented wife, mother, and grandmother. Dora loved traveling with her family, taking time to visit relatives for holidays and reunions, but also spending time visiting Disneyland and road-tripping with James and her daughters. She loved watching her kids play sports and spending time with them. Her love for her family also showed in her interest in genealogy. A very crafty and creative woman, Dora spent most of her free time creating beautiful pieces of handmade art. You could often find her carving, quilting, painting rocks, and cross-stitching.

    Her Family… Dora will be missed by her husband, James Burke; her children, Shamra Burke, Lisa (Tom) Walker; grandchildren, Cortney (Shawn) Higgins, Brittney Higgins, Haley (Joe) Downey, Kasey Higgins, Thomas Walker; great-grandson, Dalton Downey; and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Lois Johnson, and her grandson, Nathan Higgins.

    Her Farewell… Please leave a message of comfort for Dora’s family at 1-877-231-7900, or sign her guestbook at www.borekjennings.com.

 Brian Francis Ruddy

    Brian Francis Ruddy, 55, passed away Sunday, March 29, 2026, in Hamburg, Michigan, surrounded by family.

    Born on December 18, 1970, in Flint, Michigan, to Sally and Kenneth J. Ruddy Jr., Brian graduated from Fowlerville High School and went on to master many trades, becoming an exceptionally talented carpenter.

    He had a rare gift for transforming the simplest materials into something meaningful, and he took great pride in building a home of his own—a reflection of his dedication, skill, and heart.

    Brian found joy in life’s simple pleasures: sharing laughs around the fire, captaining his boat, and riding his motorcycle. Though tough on the outside, he had a generous spirit and a deep love for those who truly understood him. Brian was fortunate to have many friends who valued his loyalty, humor, and unmistakable presence. Known for his bold personality and honest nature, he left a lasting impression on everyone he met and was always someone you could count on.

    Brian is survived by his loving mother, Sally, and his niece, Jordyn Wise, along with her husband, Josh Wise, who will continue to carry his memory forward. He was preceded in death by his father and his sister, Jennifer.

    Please join the family in celebrating Brian’s life on Saturday, June 6th, from 2PM-8PM at 10461 Hamburg Rd., Hamburg, MI 48139.

    Brian will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his fiery spirit, creative soul, and the enduring impact he had on all who knew and loved him.

 Webberville Library sponsoring Euchre Fun Night on April 25th

    Friends of the Webberville Library is sponsoring a Euchre Fun Night fundraiser on Saturday, April 25. Registration at 5:30 pm and playing begins 6:00 pm at the Webberville Cultural Center. The entry fee is $10 per person to play. Prizes will be awarded and there will be a 50/50 drawing. Snacks and beverages will be provided. You are welcome to bring your own snacks and non-alcholic beverages. Please join us for our Webberville Library euchre fund raiser.

 Fowlerville Community Theatre preparing production of       ‘The Little Mermaid Junior’ on April 24-25-26

    Fowlerville Community Theatre is thrilled to bring to the stage FCT’s production of ‘The Little Mermaid Junior’ at the Alverson Center for the Performing Arts at Fowlerville High School on April 24-25-26.

    In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young mermaid, Ariel, longs to leave her ocean home — and her fins — behind and live in the world above. But first, she'll have to defy her father, King Triton, make a deal with the evil sea witch, Ursula, and convince the handsome Prince Eric that she's the girl whose enchanting voice he's been seeking.

    This amazing cast of 60 children and teens ranges in age from 5 to 18. The show is visually stunning, from the costumes to the sets and props. There may even be a little bit of underwater magic in store for all. The cast has been working very hard to bring you an evening of entertainment! You will not want to miss this.

    There is also a VIP add-on option for those who would like to meet Ariel in mermaid form, along with her friends and family, before the show begins! See our website for more details.

    Get your tickets to see FCT’s Production of The Little Mermaid Junior today. Show dates and times are as follows: Friday, April 24th at 7pm, Saturday, April 25th at 2pm, and Sunday, April 26th at 2pm. Tickets are $15 (ages 3 and up). They may be ordered online or at the door. Cash and Venmo accepted at the door. Online tickets may be ordered at: www.fowlervilletheatre.com

    FCT will also be at Princess Storytime in partnership with the Fowlerville District Library on Saturday, April 18th at 11am, with a few of Ariel’s princess friends. This event at the library is free, and we’d love to meet you and your little ones in person.

 Fowlerville District Library

Upcoming Events

Monday – Wednesday: 9:30 am to 7:00 pm

Thursday: 9:30 am to 8:00 pm

Friday: 9:30 am to 6:00 pm

Saturday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Sunday: Closed

For any questions, or to register for programs, call us at 517-223-9089

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KIDS & FAMILY

Homeschool Hangout

This is a fun drop-in program for homeschoolers to connect with one another over games and activities. Each session includes a STEAM activity. 

Wed, Apr 22 ● 1-2pm

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Family Storytime (Ages 1-5)

For families with “littles” to learn, play and grow through a variety of stories, songs, rhymes, movements, and activities. Playtime and crafts included! 

Tues ● 10-11am

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Toddler Storytime (Ages 0-3)

A storytime for the “littlest littles” to learn, play, and grow through a variety of stories, songs, rhymes and movements that appeal to short attention spans. 

Wed ● 10-11am

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Kids Club (Ages 6-12)

All the fun of Lego Club, but with more! Now you can play a game, complete a craft or activity, and still build with your favorite bricks. 

Thurs.● 4pm

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Graphic Novel Book Club

Read the book and then come to discuss it. Snacks provided. Books are available at the front desk and are yours to keep. We will be discussing MONSTER BLOOD by R. L. Stine. 

Mon, Apr 27 ● 4pm

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Book Boxes (All ages)

Fill out the online form by visiting the events page on our website. Let the librarians pick a surprise selection of books for you. Register the first two weeks of every month to get next month’s box, which will be ready to pick up the first of the following month.

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Reading Dragons (All Ages)

Game on! Read to earn creature cards to collect and play games! Can you collect them all? Stop by the library to grab a reading log and a starter set to begin your adventure.

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Live Homework Help

Free with your library card! Log on to HelpNow, click “Live Help”, Enter subject and grade level and enter the online classroom for expert assistance. You can find a link on our homepage.

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Sensory Playtime (Ages 2-5)

This is a drop-in playtime filled with unstructured, sensory fun! Watch your littles use their imaginations to turn everyday things into toys. Caregiver supervision is required. 

Friday, Apr 17 ● 10-11am

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TEENS

Dungeons & Dragons (Ages 12-18)

Come play D&D 5th Edition! No prior experience needed.

Wednesdays ● 2:30-5pm

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Switch Free Play (Ages 10-18)

Open gaming time with the library's Switch.

Fridays ● 2:30-5 pm

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ADULTS

Board of Trustees Meeting

The Board will meet to discuss library business, the public is invited and encouraged to attend. 

Thurs, Apr 16 ● 6pm

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Writer’s Group Meeting

Are you an established or aspiring author? You are not alone. There are many writers in Fowlerville and the surrounding areas. We will meet in the historical room. 

Fri. Apr 17 ● 11am

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The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere

Owen McMaster will be here in honor of our upcoming 250th Semiquincentennial, celebrating the signing of the Declaration of Independence 1776. Always an entertaining speaker, he will get us in the zone to feel proud of our country. 

Thurs, May 28 ● 6pm

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Cardmaking (Adults)

Enjoy camaraderie and cards at this popular program.

You will make four different cards to take home. All supplies included. Registration is required. 

Thurs, Apr 23 ● 6:00 pm & Fri, Apr 24 ● 11 am

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Scrapbooking (Adults)

Make the most of your memories and join us for a fun day of scrapbooking your favorite photos. Stay the whole time or for just a few hours. Everyone gets their own table. Light refreshments will be provided. Registration is required. 

Sat. Apr 18 ● 10:30 – 3:30pm

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Shelf Indulgence Book Club (Adults)

Members take turns facilitating the discussions. Come and enjoy some literary camaraderie! Register to get a free copy of the book, while supplies last. Registration begins one month before each scheduled meeting. Next meeting, we will discuss HEARTWOOD by Amity Gaige. 

Thurs, Apr 16 ● 2-3pm

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Sewing (Adults)

Bring your sewing machine and learn from a master seamstress. All levels of skill are welcome. Registration is required. 

Wed, Apr 15 ● 5:30pm & Fri, May 8 ● 10-2 pm

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Holistic Wellness (Adults)

Lyndsey Johnson from Natural Roots and Wellness presents workshops for promoting health and vitality through holistic practice. Registration is required. 

Mon, May 4 ● 5pm

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Patriotic Banner

Join us to help celebrate our Nation's 250th birthday by making a patriotic banner just in time for Memorial Day. All supplies will be included. Registration is required. 

Thurs, May 14 ● 6pm

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Repair Cafe

Don’t throw it away! Bring your broken items here for repair and advice from handymen. 

Sat, May 30 ● 10-12pm

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Professional Pet Photos

Have a keepsake photo taken of your pet by a professional photographer here at the library. With your sign up, you will be given your own sitting time. We will ask what type of animal and how many humans in the picture. With your email address, the photos will be sent directly to you along with permission to print them. 

Tues, May 5 ● 10-12pm & 5-7pm

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Computer Assistance

Do you need help formatting a resume? Making columns on a document? Saving something to a flash drive? Whatever you may need help with, a computer expert will be here to assist you near the public computers. 

Mon 4/13, 4/20 & 4/27 ● 1-2pm

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Senior Appy Hours

Sign up at the front desk to reserve a time for one-on-one help with all your technology needs. Bring your phone, tablet or laptop and have your own personal time with our tech expert. 

Wed, Apr 8 & May 13 ● 2-4pm

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Library Lounge A Reading Ungroup for Grownups

Bring your own book, or read one of ours, and come to our monthly after-hours silent reading program.  For adults 18+ only, you can imbibe with a non-alcoholic literary-themed signature MOCKTAIL, grab some pub snacks, then go find a comfy chair and read in uninterrupted delicious silence for an hour. Registration is required. 

Tues, Apr 14 & May 12 ● 7pm

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So You Think You Can Puzzle! Puzzle Challenge

Register your team of up to 4 people to compete to complete an identical puzzle in the fastest time. Single registrants will be paired with other singles. Prizes will be awarded, and refreshments served. This month's puzzle will feature a Springtime theme. 

Thurs, Apr 16 ● 6 pm

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All About Herbs

Are you wondering how to grow your own herbs? Maybe you want to learn about medicinal or culinary uses for herbs you are already growing. All these points will be explored and explained. 

Thursday, 04/30 ● 6 pm. Registration is not required.

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Fiber Arts Lounge

Spend some time with other fiber artists. Bring your latest project and share your passion for an hour or two. We will meet by the fireplace, as space allows. 

Thurs, May 7 ● 6 pm. Registration is not required.

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Fairy Door Decorating

Come and create a portal into the wonderful world of fairies. Whether inside your home or in the garden, these mythical creatures need a place to come and go between our worlds. Registration is required. 

June 11 ● 6 pm

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Fowlerville Area Historical Society Meeting

The Historical Society will meet here. The public is invited and encouraged to attend. 

Thurs, May 7 ● 6pm

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Did You Know?

Did you know that we are a food collection location for the Family Impact Center? Non-perishable foods may be dropped off in the cafe area, and we thank you!

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A Friendly Reminder

We are happy to be fine-free, however after a book is 8 weeks overdue, the item will be withdrawn from our system and can no longer be returned. A library lost/replacement fee will be applied to the account. Please return your items on time so that others can enjoy them too.

Saturday, April 4, 2026

 Fred M. Royce

    Fred M. Royce passed away on March 30, 2026, at the age of 78; he was born on January 2, 1948, and was a resident of Bell Oak, Michigan.

    Our loving husband, dad, grandpa and brother took his last breath and gained his wings on March 30, 2026.

    He was born on Jan. 2, 1948 to Russell and Martha (Anderson) Royce. He was the youngest son of 8 children. Fred started working at an early age on a neighbor's farm and learned to drive trucks.

    Fred proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, and became a diesel mechanic for the motor pool. He was stationed in TX, NY, AK and finished his time at KI Sawyer Air Force Base in Michigan.

    After his release from the Air Force, he married the love of his life, Jody VanRiper, on Oct. 28, 1972. He continued his career in trucking and drove for many companies. He finally hung up his trucker hat giving him more time to enjoy the loves of his life, especially his 10 grandkids. He taught his love of farm life, camping, and trucks to all of his family. He was a handyman who would fix just about anything. He was the original "MacGyver". He also had a love for gardening, lego building, feeding the birds and to watch wildlife. Fred loved to travel to the UP and many trips to the Caribbean.

    He was a member of the Webberville United Methodist Church, where he enjoyed being the "bagman" for the chicken dinners. Fred was also a member of the American Legion Post 296. He supported many veteran assemblies at the local schools, and was also a member of the Webberville Garden Club.

    Fred is survived by his loving wife, Jody of 53 years; his children: Rachel (Jeran) Johnson, Hannah (Jeremy) Johnson, Jessie (Gabe) Modert; his grandkids: Simon, Titus, Ava, Olivia, Luke, Zack, Madeline, Faith, Phoebe and Candice; his adopted daughters: Julie (Jim) Hath and Jeannie (Nick) Bosworth; his adopted grandkids: Jordan, Cassie and Lauren; his 4 brothers and 2 sisters; and many other special family and friends.

    He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister.

    A Celebration of life service will be held Friday, April 10, 2026, 11am at the Webberville United Methodist Church, 4215 E Holt Rd, Webberville, MI 48892, with a luncheon to follow. In Fred's honor, please wear something flannel or patriotic.

    In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed in his memory to the Webberville United Methodist Church for the padded chairs fund, the Webberville Garden Club for the Gold Star Memorial Fund, or to American Legion Post 296.

    Arrangements by Gorsline-Runciman Funeral Home, Williamston, Michigan. Please visit the website to leave online condolences.

 Melvin B. “Mell” Coleman

    Melvin B. “Mell” Coleman, age 81, passed away on Thursday, March 26, 2026, in Muskegon, Michigan. He was born on May 17, 1944, to Basil and Frances (Howd) Coleman in Alma, Michigan.

    Mell attended St. Louis High School, graduating with the Class of 1962. He went on to continue his education at the University of Michigan, where he earned his bachelor’s degree, followed by a master’s degree in music. Mell had a lifelong passion for music and found great joy in sharing it with others through teaching and mentorship. He served as a dedicated band director at several high schools from 1967 to 1978, inspiring countless students along the way.

    In addition to his musical talents, Mell was a gifted repairman who could fix just about anything. He later founded his own business, Embassy, where he put his skills to use helping others.

    On December 28, 1968, he married the love of his life, Rita Bigney, in New Lothrop, Michigan. Together, they shared 57 years of love, laughter, and cherished memories. Mell was a devoted servant of the Lord and a longtime member of the United Methodist Church in Howell, where he formed many meaningful friendships. A talented singer and musician, he continued to share his gifts through lessons and performances.

    He was a proud member of the Capital City Chordsmen, the Michigan School Band and Orchestra Association (MSBOA), the Barbershop Harmony Society (formerly SPEBSQSA), Livingston County Concert Band, and the Hartland Senior Citizen Program. He especially enjoyed participating in music programs that brought joy to senior citizens. Mell was also an avid collector and enthusiast of tools and parts, always eager to tinker and create. A devoted University of Michigan fan, he cheered on his team with pride—Go Blue!

    Above all, Mell was a devoted family man who cherished every moment spent with his loved ones. He will be remembered as a loving husband, a wonderful father, a doting grandfather and great-grandfather, and a dear friend to many. Mell will be deeply missed.

    He is survived by his loving wife, Rita Coleman; three sons, Gregory (Melanie) Coleman, Nicholas (Katherine) Coleman and Walter (Sarah) Coleman; 12 grandchildren, Tamara, Emily (Justin), Rebecca (Nathan), Samantha, Raymond, Christopher, Abigail, Allison, Matthew, Rebecca, Jackson and Anya; one great-grandchild, Lanayru; cherished friend, Heather LaVelle; and beloved church family and senior center friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, David Coleman and Timothy Coleman.

    Memorial Contributions in his honor can be directed to the First United Methodist Church-Howell and Hartland Senior Activity Center. A Celebration of Mell’s Life will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the First United Methodist Church, 1230 Bower St., Howell, MI 48843 with visitation from 10-11:00am. Arrangements entrusted to The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Share memories with the family at https://www.sytsemafh.com (https://www.sytsemafh.com/).