Samuel VanValkenburg

Fowlerville, Michigan

    His Legacy… Samuel Kenneth VanValkenburg, 66, passed away July 3, 2026. He was born on December 15, 1959, in Paw Paw, Michigan, to Kenneth VanValkenburg and Anna (Beck) VanValkenburg. Sam married the love of his life, Bonnie Cottongim, on November 1, 1980 in Fowlerville, Michigan. He will be remembered as a loving, one of a kind dad and friend who always had something to say. Sam always spoke his mind, and he didn’t hesitate to share his thoughts with anyone he encountered. It’s been said that Sam never met a stranger, everywhere he went he happened upon an old friend that he could catch up with. There is no doubt that his love stretched farther than anyone could ever realize.

    Sam had a big heart; he’d give you the shirt off his back if you ever needed one. His generosity stemmed into the kitchen, keeping a snack and goodie drawer always stocked for his family and the neighborhood kids alike. Sam knew how to spoil his grandchildren; he always made a point to shower them with love when they were near. Sam will be remembered most for that very love and the way he used it to care for everyone he met.

    His Family… Sam will be missed by his wife, Bonnie; his children, Troy (Charlotte), Quinten (Jennifer), Amanda (Jason); sister, Lisa (Randy); grandchildren, Austin (Alissa), Ashley, Ben (Kyra), Drake, Tylor, Savannah, Malia, Landyn, Eliana; great grandchildren, Memphis, Braden, Brody; close friends, Bill Hudson & Ed Eogler, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth & Anna.

    His Farewell… Sam’s family and friends were gathering on Saturday, July 11, 2026, 1:00PM-3:00PM, at Borek Jennings Funeral Homes in Fowlerville, Michigan. His Community Farewell was to follow immediately at 3:00PM. Please leave a message of comfort for Samuel’s family at 1-877-231-7900, or sign his guestbook at www.borekjennings.com.

 Garry Stoinski

Fowlerville, Michigan

    His Legacy… Garry Joe Stoinski, 72, passed away July 2, 2026. He was born on February 25, 1954, in Ypsilanti, Michigan, to Frank Stoinski and Myrtle (Faris) Stoinski. Garry married the love of his life, Beth (Collins) Stoinski on March 10, 1990. He will be remembered as a quiet, calm man who never asked for a lot.

    In his younger years, Garry was an avid golfer. Once he stopped playing, his love for sports shifted to watching them on TV. When he wasn’t watching golf or NASCAR, he could often be found sitting on the porch. Here, he would enjoy watching the corn grow and spotting deer. Garry also enjoyed hunting for any rodents that crept too close to his house.

    Garry was blunt. If he had something to say, he would say it. This quality presented in many ways throughout his life. Perhaps the most admirable way his blunt side shone was the way Garry would always be the first to admit his faults. Most of all, Garry will be remembered for the love he held for his kids and grandbabies.

    His Family… Garry will be missed by his wife, Beth Stoinski; his children, Samantha (Josh) Fox and Scott Stoinski; Grandchildren, Grace, Daisy, and Molly Fox; Nephew, Brian Purdy, and his children Brandon and Tyler. He is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Myrtle Stoinski, and his sister, Ernestine Purdy.

    His Farewell… Memorial contributions are suggested to Livingston County Humane Society. Please leave a message of comfort for Garry’s family at 1-877-231-7900, or sign his guestbook at www.borekjennings.com.

 Kathy Veronica Shaw

    Kathy Veronica (Hundzinski) Shaw, 61 of Fowlerville, passed away suddenly on June 16, 2026. She was born on June 24, 1964 in Detroit to Ronald Hundzinski and Constance (Valik) Hundzinski. Kathy was the fourth oldest of six children and the third oldest of five sisters. She graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in teaching and dedicated her life to helping others. But her greatest passion was always animals, especially horses and dogs. From her teenage years on, they were a huge part of who she was. Thanks to her Uncle Bob, she received her first horse, beginning a lifelong love affair with horses that never faded.

    She married the love of her life, Joseph Shaw, on August 12, 1989 in Southfield, Michigan. They lived for a while in Lathrup Village and when an opportunity to move to a more rural area and have horses in their backyard came up, they moved to Fowlerville in 1995. Kathy was a school teacher in the Waterford school district for 25 years teaching second grade and all grades up to middle school. When she retired from teaching, she began a second career managing the Dover Saddlery shop in Brighton as a way to pay for her addiction to horses. She had recently returned to showing her horses, and was training one of them for the Grand Prix level in Dressage. Getting back into the show arena brought her so much happiness.

    Kathy will be missed by her husband of 36 years, Joe; her sons Geran and Corbyn; her siblings Ronald, Cindy, Sandy, Kim & Sue; and her many nieces, nephews, and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, Ronald and Constance.

    Our hearts are broken, and there are no words to express how much she will be missed. We will remember her kind heart, her love of animals, her dedication to her family, and the joy she found doing what she loved. Rest peacefully, Kathy. You were deeply loved and will never be forgotten.

    Kathy’s family and friends will gather on July 25, 2026 from Noon to 5pm at the small pavilion at the Fowlerville Community Park, located at 425 N Grand St, for a celebration of Kathy’s Life. In lieu of flowers the family is requesting that donations be made in Kathy’s name to Horses Haven in Howell, Michigan. www.horseshaven.org Please leave a message of comfort for Kathy’s family at 1-877-231-7900, or sign her guestbook at www.borekjennings.com

 St. John’s Lutheran Church holding Vacation Bible School July 20-21-22

    Looking for some cool times this summer? Join us at St. John’s Lutheran Church for our vacation bible school, ‘Snowball Mountain Challenge’. It will be held July 20th, 21st, and 22nd at 132 S Benjamin St. Fowlerville. Dinner for participants and their families will be provided at 6pm and the program follows at 6:30 pm until 8:30 pm. There are groups for four-year-olds through teens. Join us for singing, crafts, and Bible stories. Hope to see you there!

 Fowlerville Community Schools request for renewal of non-homestead operational millage on August 4th ballot

    Fowlerville Community Schools (FCS) will have a non-homestead operational millage renewal proposal on the Tuesday, August 4th Michigan Primary ballot. This is a renewal of an existing millage, not a new tax, and would continue funding for the district's day-to-day operations for four years (2027–2030).

    Under Michigan law, this millage applies only to non-homestead properties, such as commercial businesses, rental properties, and second homes. It does not apply to primary residences.

    If approved, the renewal would continue generating approximately $3.78 million annually to help fund operating expenses, including employee salaries, instructional materials, transportation, utilities, and building maintenance. If the renewal is not approved, the district would lose this local funding, as the State of Michigan does not replace it.

    Additional information is available on the district website: fowlervilleschools.org/district/non-homestead-operational-millage/

    Furthermore, FCS Superintendent Matt Stuard, as well as Assistant Superintendent of Academics Adva Ringle, will host two coffee-hour chats to answer questions related to the millage and provide district updates. These will take place on Monday, July 13 from 8:30-9:30 am and Wednesday, July 15 from 6:00-7:00 pm at the Fowlerville Biggby Coffee located at 8097 Country Corner Drive.

 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

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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Jurassic Joel’s Magic Show

Stomp, chomp, and roar as we celebrate the end of the Summer Reading Challenge with Jurassic Joel's Magic Show! It is sure to be roar-some. 

Friday, July 24 ● 10:30 am

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Kids and Teens Craft Show

Crafty kids and teens will have their handmade creations for sale! Support our young, local entrepreneurs while you browse. 

Friday, July 24 ● 12:30-3pm

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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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Spark Club (Ages 10-13 only)

Find your spark in a variety of creative ways at one of these programs just for pre-teens (sorry, no younger siblings allowed) *Individual registration is required for each program. Beaded Succulents. 

Wednesday, July 22 ● 2pm

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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 DINO MIGHTY by Doug Paleo. 

Mon, July 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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Reading with Remington (Ages 6-12)

Read a story to Remington the dog! Pick out a short story or a few chapters to read to Remington. Time slots will be assigned first come, first served. 

Mon, July 13 & Aug 10 ● 1-2pm

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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, July 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, July 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. July 17 ● 11am

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Patriotic Paint Party

Join us to paint a patriotic picture under the guidance of the ever-popular Sarah Elaine. Registration is open. Spaces are limited. 

July 23 ● 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, sign ups are open. 

Thurs, July 16 ● 6:00 pm & Fri, July 17 ● 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. July 18 ● 10:30 – 3:30pm

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Shelf Indulgence Book Club (Adults)

Members take turns facilitating 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 RIVER IS WAITING by Wally Lamb. 

Thurs, July 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, July 15 ● 5:30pm & Fri, Aug 14 ● 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. In this class, we will discuss gut health for prevention of illness and proper nourishment. Registration is required. 

Mon, Aug 3 ● 5pm

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Heartfulness Relaxation & Meditation (Adults)

Join us for a meditation session to help you de-stress, find inner calm, improve sleep and for general emotional well being. This one hour session is free and will put you in a meditative state. Registration is required, as space is limited.

Tues, July 21 ● 5:30pm

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Urban Pole Walking (Adult)

Learn the basics and benefits of pole walking by joining the Fowlerville Pole & Stroll Group (Loaner poles are available). 

Monday & Wednesday mornings. ● 9am

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Crafting Palooza

Join Liz and Mary for a chance to make 4 different make and take crafts, while supplies last. No registration required, just come and make what you like. 

Thurs, July 30 ● 6pm

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Repair Cafe

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

Sat, Aug 22 ● 10-12

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Fowlerville Area Historical Society Meeting

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

Thurs, Aug 6 ● 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.

 Wayne Lawrence Bowers

    His Legacy… Wayne Lawrence Bowers, surrounded by family, wrapped up 89 years of tinkering, fixing, hunting, driving, and never paying someone else to do a job he could do himself on June 26, 2026.

    Born on May 20, 1937, in Durand, Michigan, to Lawrence and Thelma (Conrad) Bowers. Wayne met the love of his life, Doris Schultz, in 8th grade, and they married on Valentine’s Day in 1959 at First Methodist Church in Fowlerville. It was one of the best decisions he ever made, a partnership that lasted 67 years.

    Wayne proudly served in the United States Navy from 1954 to 1958. His military service was a source of pride throughout his life.

    Wayne wasn’t one to waste words. He let his actions do the talking. Whether he was helping family, fixing a neighbor’s car, or lending a hand, his quiet compassion spoke louder than any speech ever could.

    For 40 years, Wayne traveled around the Midwest as an owner-operator truck driver, hauling goods from one destination to the next. Once the truck was parked at home, he spent much of his time outdoors or in the garage. Hunting season, snowmobiles, ATV rides with the family, and just about anything that involved fresh air made for a good day.

    His favorite hobby, however, was restoring classic cars. He owned five cherished classics, including a 1937 Ford four-door sedan and a 1937 Chevrolet pickup. To Wayne, the fun wasn’t just owning them; it was restoring them to their former glory. One bolt, one part, and one Saturday afternoon at a time. His garage became a gathering place where the family learned about engines, patience, and the satisfaction found in working with their hands.

    If your vehicle had a strange noise, there was a good chance Wayne could fix it. He proudly served as the unofficial family mechanic for many years.

    Wayne also had a soft spot for animals, especially his beloved dogs, Tess and Cash, who were never far from his side.

    More than anything else, Wayne leaves behind a family that was built with the same care and dedication he gave to everything else in life. Though he may have been a man of few words, the life he lived said more than enough.

    His Family… Wayne will be missed by his loving wife, Doris Bowers; his children, Shari (Michael) Sandel and Pamela (Rick) Bowers-Beach; sister, Bonnie (Bob) Delaney; grandchildren, Ashley (Neil) Prang, Heather Sandel, Michael (Jaclynn) Sandel, Jennifer (Bret) Wakeman, Rebecca (Mark) Beach, Haylee (Denton) Beach-Curry; great grandchildren, Tyler (Jen) Prang, Addison Prang, Andre Prang, Dean Wakeman, Jack Wakeman, Landen Budden, Keegan Budden, Aria Budden, Brayden Curry, Thomas Corden; special nephew Butch and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Thelma Bowers, and brother, Basil Bowers.

    His Farewell… Wayne’s family and friends gathered from 3 PM to 8 PM, Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at Borek Jennings Funeral Homes in Fowlerville, Michigan. His Community Farewell was held at 11 AM, Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Borek Jennings Funeral Homes in Fowlerville (Gathering began at 10 AM). Martin “Rusty” Wakeman served as celebrant. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Alzheimer's Association and K-9’s for Warriors. Please leave a message of comfort for Wayne’s family at 1-877-231-7900, or sign his guestbook at www.borekjennings.com.