Ronald Henry Dillingham

     Ronald Henry Dillingham, age 68, of Smithville, Tennessee, who was a former resident of the Fowlerville-Webberville area, passed away on Sunday, May 24, 2020 after an extended illness.
    Ron was born on August 10, 1951 in Howell, the son of Gale and Mary (Germain) Dillingham. He grew up in Fowlerville, graduating from high school in 1969. 
    After attending college at Northern Michigan University and Lansing Community College, he became an insurance agent. For several years he owned and operated the Dillingham Insurance Agency located in the Fowlerville and Webberville area. He was a member of the Leroy Township Fire Department, the Livingston County Arson Investigation Squad, the Webberville Lions Club, and the Webberville Masons. 
    He and his wife, Barb moved to Tennesse in 1992. He initially worked with Auto Owners Insurance as a claims adjuster and then established his own business—Dillingham Claims Service which he owned for ten years.
    Prior to his extended illness he enjoyed boating, camping, fishing and woodworking. 
    Ron is survived by his wife of 30 years, Barb; children: Matt (Joanie) Dillingham of Sugarland, Texas and Kara (Paul) Scott of South Lyon; step-children: Becky (Mike) Chambers of Webberville and Joe (April) Monroe of North Branch; grandchildren: Lila and Hannah Scott, Erick and Alexander Dillingham, Michaela and Sydney Chambers and Joe and Parker Monroe; his brother: Fred (Diane) Dillingham; sisters: Connie (Jeff) Schaffer, and Rita Dillingham; brothers-in-law: Eugene (Vicki) Hayward, Robert (Beverly) Hayward, and William Hayward; sister-in-law: Shirley (Scott) Hull; mother-in-law: Shirley Hayward; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends; and his fur baby: Bailey.
    He was preceded in death by his parents and a neice: Kristi Dillingham.
    Visitation will be held on Monday, June 1, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Herrmann Funeral Home of Fowlerville with a limit of 10 people at a time. A second visitation will take place prior to the funeral on Tuesday, June 2, from 10 to 11 a.m. prior to the funeral.
   Funeral services will be held for the immediate family at 11 a.m., with a deacon from St. Agnes Catholic Church officiating. Graveside services will take place at Greenwood Cemetery in Fowlerville immediately after the funeral, with friends welcome to attend.
     Online condolences may be expressed at pjherrmannfuneralhome.com
     In lieu of flowers,  donations can be made to the family.
     Arrangements are being handled by Herrmann Funeral Home of Fowlerville.

Robert Allen Kubiak

    Robert Allen Kubiak, age 62, of Webberville, Michigan passed away on Monday, May 25, 2020. Bob was born July 14, 1957 in Wayne County, MI to John Richard and Wilma Edna (Witte) Kubiak.
    Bob is preceded in death by his parents, sister Diane, and granddaughter Rose Shunn.
     Left to cherish his memory is his high school sweetheart and wife of 43 years, Debbie. He is also survived by daughter, Stacie (Michael) Shunn; son, Jason (Cherie) Kubiak; grandchildren, Kyle, Katelyn, Violet, Tyler, Wade, and Wesley.  Also surviving him are his brothers, Richard (Nancy) Kubiak, Donald Kubiak, Jeff (Marei) Kubiak; and by many treasured aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and friends.
     The most important things in his life were his children and grandchildren who lovingly referred to him as Papa. He loved sports and never missed the chance to attend one of their games or activities. If he wasn't in the bleachers cheering on his grandchildren, he could be found at the closest blackjack table or bingo hall. Bob, a lifetime Webberville FFA member and former officer, had a green thumb. He took great pride in his large backyard garden, forming Father & Son Fresh Produce and selling produce at farmers’ markets in Ingham and Livingston Counties for many years. He also loved animals, the Detroit Tigers, and MSU sports.
    A private family burial will take place on Tuesday, June 2, 2020.  We will be celebrating the legacy of Robert in the future when we can all be together. Until then raise a toast to him and celebrate his memory.
    Bob was not a veteran but he greatly respected and appreciated their sacrifice and service.  In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Fowlerville VFW Post 6464, 215 S. Detroit Street, Fowlerville, Michigan 48836.
    Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.grwilliamston.com for the Kubiak family.

Lowell I. Nims

    Lowell I. Nims, age 70, lifelong resident of Webberville, passed away May 25, 2020. Born Sept 8, 1949 to Earnest and Ila Mae (Lillywhite) Nims. He worked for the Livingston County Road Commission for 33 years before retiring in 2015. 
    He is survived by his beloved wife Kimberly Hunter; children Andrea Nims, Earnest (Robin) Nims, Melissa Nims (Marty Chilvers), Caitlin (Kelsey) Bongard, Jeffrey Nims, Michaela (Jesse) Stricklin; step-children Matthew (Michelle) Duprey and Sonya (Dennis) Ward. Grandchildren Olivia, Myrrah, Benjamin, Harry, Rocco, Sarah, Noah, Maelynn, and Jonathan. Mother-in-law Donna Hunter (Harold Resh) and sister-in-laws Cathy (Jeff) Misze, Sharolyn Hunter (Doug Edgar) as well as many extended family and friends. 
    He is pre-deceased by his parents, brothers Lynwood, Larry and LaVern, sister LaDonna Freeze and grandson Hunter. 
     Cremation has taken place. A final resting place at Alchin Farms Cemetery will take place on June 5, 2020.  Arrangements entrusted to Herrmann Funeral Home.  Online condolences may be expressed at pjherrmannfuneralhome.com

Cindy Faye Blucher

    Cindy Faye Blucher, age 63, went to be with Our Lord and Savior on Monday, May 25, 2020.  She was a longtime resident of Fowlerville.  
    Cindy was born to John and Ruth Roskovensky (both deceased) on August 5, 1956 in Highland Park, MI.  She graduated from Troy High School in 1975.  
     She married  to Dean Blucher (deceased-2002) in December 1976 in Troy, MI. They had 3 sons: Erich, Bradley and Kurt (deceased-1999). Beloved sister to Debbie Edwards (Fowlerville), Belinda Edwards (Davison, MI), and Teri Whitbeck (deceased-2020). Very Special Aunt to Kimberly, John, Joseph,  Katie, Greg, Ken, Mandy, and Jenny. 
    Cindy met Chuck Sullivan in 2010 and began a loving, adventurous new relationship.  She especially enjoyed being a “Special Aunt Grandma” to Haley, Arin, Trever and Annabelle Szumlinski. She is the retired goalie for The Lady Blues Hockey Team, and she loved her sisterhood of teammates.  She was an active member of the Calvary Bible Church in Cohoctah, MI.  
     She will be remembered by everyone for her kind and  gentle spirit and her williness to always pitch in to help anyway she could.  Her cheerfulness lit up every room she entered. Her absence leaves a void no one else could ever fill.  
    Arrangements entrusted to Herrmann Funeral Home.  Online condolences may be expressed at pjherrrmannfuneralhome.com.

Now is time to prepare projects for Open Class Competition at fair
   The Fowlerville Family Fair is less than two months away and now is the time to prepare your projects for the Open Class Competition.
 With summer finally here and gardening activities interesting more people all the time, both Floriculture and Horticulture classes are open to both Youth and Adult competitors.  Garden flowers and house plants add beauty to the Open Class display area and home grown items amaze fairgoers every year.
   There are special classes for many varieties of garden flowers and house plants; they can be arranged in both baskets and vases.  House plants can be individual items, or a collection, both single and arrangements.  Planters and Fairy Gardens also can be entered into the fair competition.
   The garden stores are busier this year than in recent times, due to the Covid pandemic.  Americans are returning to vegetable gardens to supplement their food supplies, and to create a self-sustaining home.  Some of the fresh produce can be entered in the Horticulture department; now is the time to be nurturing a garden so that the plants are producing by Fair.  Again, there are sections for both adults and youth.
   Livingston County is largely rural, and many residents are involved in a variety of Agricultural activities.  Growing of grains, legumes, corn, and hay, as well as involvement in agricultural products like honey and maple syrup, wine, cheeses and other dairy, and many kinds of wool all locally grown here, have specific areas in Open Class for Youth and Adult age groups.
   Now is the time to plan your entry into the competition, and to submit the entry registration.  Fair books are now available online at www.fowlervillefamilyfair.com.  Hovering over the "Fair" heading will drop a menu that includes Open Class and the fair book; registration can be completed both online and by US Mail.  Be sure to read the entry details for rules and deadlines.  Most registration and the entry fee is due in the fair office by July 1. 
     For those unable to access Open Class information on line, please call the Fair Office at 517-223-8186 for further assistance.

Gerald Edmund Alchin

    Gerald Edmund Alchin of Webberville passed away on May 17, 2020 after battling Alzheimer’s Disease. Gerald was born on September 30, 1936 in Webberville to Elmer and Catherine (Oesterle) Alchin. He grew up working on the family farm, first in Howell and then in Webberville. 
    Upon graduating from Webberville High School in 1954, he became interested in construction and entered the field of plumbing. In 1966, Gerald started his own business, Alchin Plumbing Inc., of which he was owner/operator until his retirement in 2004. He was a member of the Lansing Mechanical Contractors Association, serving as an officer for multiple years and earning Emeritus status, and was a member/contractor of Lansing Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 388/333 from 1965 until retirement.
    Gerald was also a longtime member of the Michigan Master Plumbers & Mechanical Contractors Association, winning Contractor of the Year honors in 1989, and serving as president during 1992-1993, eventually winning the MPMCA Lifetime Award. He also owned the Webberville Hardware during the late 1970’s and early 1980’s.
    Gerald was a very hard worker, but also loved spending time with his family and many friends. He had a gift for storytelling, and liked to tell jokes as well, followed by his own big laugh. He treasured time spent having breakfast daily with friends at the local restaurant round table, in his words, “solving the problems of the world”. 
    Gerald enjoyed traveling, many times to professional or school board conferences around the country, and other times to campgrounds or to visit friends. Other pastimes included watching U-M sports, Tigers baseball and golf.
    He was a devoted father and grandfather and enjoyed attending his children’s and grandchildren’s school and sports activities. In later life, Gerald developed an interest in toy tractors, and over time acquired an impressive collection. He carried an exceptionally deep love for Christmas throughout his entire life, buying too many presents for children and grandchildren, inviting friends and
neighbors to home Christmas parties, and spending many years suited up as Santa’s helper.
    Gerald was proud of and involved with his community, and belonged to the Webberville Lion’s Club, United Methodist Church, and Masonic Lodge/Elf Kurafeh Shrine, and was named Webberville Citizen of the Year in 1992. He served 24 years on the Webberville School Board and was an enthusiastic supporter of the Webberville FFA and Ingham County 4-H Club. He also served 28 years on the Leroy Township Board.
    Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Catherine (Oesterle) Alchin, and by his brother Ken Alchin (Barbara) and sister JoAnn Wallace (Keith). Gerald is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Barbara (White), children: Gary Alchin (LorinYeater),  Lori Morris (Rob), and Gregg Alchin (Sara),  grandchildren: Daniel, Claire, Caroline, Gwynne and Andrew, and sister Judy Thornton (Ray).
    Interment will take place at Alchin Farm Cemetery in Webberville. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions in Gerald’s name may be given to either the Webberville United Methodist Church Building Fund (4215 Holt Rd., Webberville, 48892) or to the Webberville FFA Scholarship Fund (309 E. Grand River Ave., Webberville, MI 48892).
   Arrangments were handled by the Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, Williamston Chapel. 

Sharlon K. Peters

   Sharlon K. Peters, 76, born May 28, 1943 in Fowlerville, MI, went to be with her Lord on May 15, 2020. Sharlon was a graduate of Webberville High School and retired from Michigan Millers after 44 years of service in November 2009. Shar greatly enjoyed attending dance competitions, snowmobiling with her brothers; was an avid reader, and loved her cats, rescuing and adopting several in her lifetime.  Shar was the kindest soul who never met a stranger, but made a new friend everywhere she went.  She loved giving and spreading her love with all. 
     She adored all of her family, her mother, Velna Hoag, brothers Don (Ruth) Hoag, Ron (Connie) Hoag, sisters Carol Hawley and Mary (Harry) Fields; also many beloved nieces and nephews.  Shar doted on her daughter Nancy, worshiped her granddaughter Kaylynn and tolerated her favorite son-in-law Keith King.  She was preceded in death by her father Lafayette Hoag and niece Lisa Borchard.
    Out of respect and concern for public health and safety, the family has chosen to postpone services. A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Sharlon Peters may be made to the Lisa (Hoag) Borchard Scholarship Fund, 1138 Riverview Court, Williamston, MI 48895 or the Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 W. Grand River, Lansing, MI 48906.  Online condolences may be shared at www.petersandmurrayfuneralhome.com 

Michael B. Recker (MR)

    Michael B. (MR)  Recker, 77, of Sun City West, Arizona, died May 7, 2020 following a lingering illness. Born (Thanksgiving Day) November 26, 1942 in Detroit to Bernard ‘Bud’ and Bernice ‘Bunny’ (Joly) Recker.
   Mike spent his early years in the greater Detroit area. Moving to Howell, he attended St. Joseph Catholic School and Howell High. The family relocated to Bay City where Mike graduated from Bay City Central—Class of 1962.
   As a young boy Mike loved baseball. He enjoyed telling the story of mowing the yard of Detroit Tiger great Al Kaline when Kaline first became a Detroit Tiger. In Howell Little League, Mike had the distinction of throwing out the first pitch at the “new” Paul Bennett Field that is still in use. One summer, he also played AAA with another Detroit Tiger great, Willie Horton.
   In 1970, Mike joined the Livingston County Sheriff Department. In 1974, he received a Medal & Citation for Valor and Bravery and in 1976, he was selected Officer of the Year. During this tenure he was a member of the MSP undercover narcotics team (WANT). Mike also served on the Fowlerville Village Council, and he was named one of the Michigan Jaycees’ Top Five ‘Outstanding Young Men in Michigan’ in 1978.
   In the 1980’s, Mike joined the Washtenaw County Sheriff Department as a Sergeant in charge of Jail Operations. While with the WCSD, he enjoyed being a member of the security detail for  University of Michigan football coach, Bo Schembechler. Following his retirmenet from the WCSD, Mike worked for five years in Corrections with the Maricopa County Sheriff Department in Arizona.
    Mike is survived by wife Susan, son Edward Fortin (Kari) of Ohio, and daughter Trudy (Jimi) May of Howell, 2 stepdaughters, 7 grandchildren, 2 step-grandchildren, various cousins, and friends in Michigan and Arizona.
   He was predeceased by his parents and son, Troy (2007). 
    No services are scheduled at this time. Cremation has taken placee. Memorials in Mike’s name may be made to Hospice of the Vally at www.hov.org.

Fowlerville High to hold virtual graduation next Sunday, 
May 31, followed by car processional June 7
   Given that a traditional, in-person commencement ceremony would not happen in the near future, Fowlerville school officials are holding a virtual graduation for the Class of 2020 next Sunday, May 31, followed by a car processional on Sunday, June 7.
    Bradford Lusk, the high school principal, said that the virtual event—which starts at 2 p.m.—will attempt “to mimick a traditonal graduation as much as possible.”
    “The pictures of each of our seniors will be shown and there’ll be the music of ‘Pomp and Circumstance’,” he said. “One of the seniors, Jacob King, will sing the National Anthem. Then Superintendent Wayne Roedel and I will give our welcoming speeches, and Mike Brown, the school board president, will introduce members of the board of education.”
   Also giving addresses will be Summer Brooke McLane Svoboda, the valedictorian, and Josh Harper, the salutatorian. One of the class officers, Jordan Davidson, will thank the senior class advisor, Jason Speery.
    Lusk said that the Class of 2020 has 175 graduating seniors.
    The ceremony will be shown on the high school’s You Tube channel. Anyone wishing to view it can Google fhsglads to access You Tube.
   “The speeches will be prerecorded, but the ceremony will start at 2 p.m. on our You Tube channel at the same time it would have were it the regular in-person event,” Lusk said.
   Fowlerville normally holds its commencement exercises on the first Sunday after Memorial Day.
   In order for the seniors to enjoy a ‘live’ celebration and final gathering as a class, a procession will take place the following Sunday, June 7. Each of the graduates, wearing their graduation cap and gown, will be driven along Grand River in a vehicle from the fairgrounds, through the Downtown, to Hibbard Street, and then through the school campus to the high school
   At the Main 4 interection of the Downtown, each senior will be introduced and receive their diploma. After reaching the school grounds, each of them will have their photo taken.
   In case of rain, the procession will be held on June 14.
   Lusk said the decision to hold the virtual graduation ceremony, followed by the processional came when it became apparent that an in-person event would not be possible in the near future.
   “All the signs show that a larger gathering of people was not likely to happen anytime soon,” he said. “We wanted to do the best could under the circumstances and have a celebration for the kids and given them a unique graduation.” 

Freda May Peckens

    Freda May Peckens, formerly of Fowlerville, Michigan, passed away on May 9, 2020 at the home of her daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Gordon Miner at Raleigh, NC. She was born in Green Oak Township, MI, on April 14, 1916 to Annie and Wesley Worden and had recently celebrated her 104th birthday. 
     Freda graduated from Fowlerville High School in 1934 and married Earl C. Peckens in 1936 (deceased in 1994). They had three children: Ralph E. (deceased 2004), Laura L. Coats (Aurora, CO), and Linda K. (Raleigh, NC). She had five grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, and one great-great grandson. 
    Freda’s husband, Earl, operated the Fowlerville airports (Newton Field and later Maple Grove). He taught all of his children to fly, and they all soloed at the age of 16. He also taught Freda to fly, and she soloed at the age of 50. The idea was that she could land the plane if he had a medical condition on one of their numerous flights. 
    Freda has ridden in many types of flying machines, including open cockpit, breezies, helicopters, balloon, and commercial jets. She experienced all forms of transportation and had ridden on such things as horse and buggy, motorcycle-sidecar, boats, and even an elephant. Freda and Earl were fortunate to be able to travel across much of the United States, including Hawaii and Alaska. They also visited England, Denmark, Germany, Switzerland, India, and Costa Rica. 
    As age crept up on Freda, she moved to Raleigh in 2006. Freda is a lifetime member of Eastern Star. She was an avid card and Rummykub player and delighted in beating her son-in-law. She played golf until the age of 83 at the Oak Lane Golf Course in Webberville, MI. 
     The family would like to thank James Ferry and Harry Montgomery (White Memorial Presbyterian Church) for serving Communion at the home the past two years. They also appreciate the home care provided by Bayada and Transitions Life Care. Due to current circumstances, a memorial service and interment will be planned for a later date in Michigan.  

Webberville Elementary still accepting preschool & kindergarten enrollments 
   It’s not too late to enroll your child for Preschool or Kindergarten at Webberville Elementary School!  Please fill out/submit the form at www.webbervilleschools.org (see Pre-K/Kindergarten Enrollment under District news) and we will contact you.  You may also call Mrs. Davis at (517) 521-3071, extension 7935 for questions.  Thank you!  We look forward to meeting our newest STARS! 

Howell Nature Center plans soft re-opening for public on 
May 29
    The Howell Nature Center (HNC) announces their plan for a soft re-open to the public with a target date of May 29. 
      The HNC has been working closely with local health officials and is confident in their newly updated health and safety protocols. 
     “During the financial fallback of COVID-19, our community has helped us heal through their abundance of kindness. We want to be there for our HNC extended family and provide an opportunity for families to get outside in a healthy and responsible way. Of course, we want to re-open our gates in the right way that maximizes safety for everyone involved. It’s really important to us that we are as safe as possible not only for our guests, but also for our staff and animals,” said John “JC” Carlson, CEO.
     HNC is targeting Friday, May 29, as their re-open date, giving them time to slowly bring staff and volunteers back and ensure all health and safety COVID-19 mitigation protocols are in place and operational. They will be operating at a much-reduced capacity to optimize guest and staff safety, opening the Wild Wonders Wildlife Park by reservation only. The NatureScape and Nature Zone will remain closed temporarily. Guests will need to make a reservation online through HOWELLNATURECENTER.ORG, which will allow HNC to closely monitor attendance. Admission will only be accepted digitally, and no cash transactions will take place. Admission is FREE for essential workers and their families with any proof of employment. HNC will also be announcing special hours for our frontline heroes.  All guests must check-in with the gatekeeper upon arrival. John “JC” Carlson emphasizes, “We ask that our guests patiently work with us to help keep our community safe.”
     While Nature Center staff have greatly missed the laughter of children as they play and learn, they have been using this time wisely to accomplish exciting renovations. “Thanks to funds from the e2 Grant (supporting educational and environmental initiatives Worldwide) from Chem-Trend’s parent company Freudenberg, we are finishing Phase One of major renovations to our Wild Wonders Wildlife Park to make the trails more accessible to all visitors. Phase Two will take place in 2021 and focus on environmental educational interpretives. 
     “We are excited to unveil a new landscape that is easier to traverse for parents with strollers and those with mobility challenges,” said Laura Butler, Director of Wildlife and Education.
     Follow them on Facebook or visit their website at HOWELLNATURECENTER.ORG to pre-register for your visit and to stay-up-to-date on current information 

Fowlerville Fun in the Ville celebration cancelled due to COVID-19 pandemic
   Organizers of Fowlerville Fun in the Ville announced last week that the annual celebration held at the Centennial Park was being canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The event was planned for Saturday, June 13.
   In making the announcement, organizers said that  “As a committee we hung on as long as possible before having to make a decision.  It was our hope that we could still have our event, but with the State of Emergency currently not ending until May 28th we know that it would be very unlikely that our State would be open enough to have a gathering of our size on June 13th.”   
    The Fun in the Ville Committee said that they would now begin making plans for next year’s celebration on June 12. 

Eleanor Margaret (Krebs) Messner

    Eleanor Margaret (Krebs) Messner began her new life in heaven on April 30, 2020 at the age of 92.   She was born in August 1927 in Detroit to parents Lena and Fredrick Krebs,  and moved to Fowlerville at the age of three.  She lived there until 2010 when she moved to DeWitt to be close to her daughter, Laura.   Eleanor is survived by daughter Linda Seufert [DeWitt MI], son George (Doreen) Messner  [Howell MI], and daughter Laura Masterson [DeWitt MI].     
     In addition, she is survived by Grandson Adam (Kristi) Koehn and great grandchildren Grant, Victoria and Elizabeth [Elbert CO]; Grandson Brian Koehn [Breckenridge CO]; granddaughter Tina (Terry) Rabideau and great grandson Christian [Commerce MI]; granddaughter Kelly Stomp and great grandson Cole [Davison MI]; granddaughter Jessica (Michael) Messner McDaniel and great grandchildren Emma and Levi [Bann, Germany]; Grandson Lewis (Claire) Messner [Ft. Collins, CO]; Grandson Nathanael (Kathryn) Messner [Howell, MI]; Grandson Jason (Liz) Masterson and great grandson Jackson [DeWitt MI]; Grandson Jeremy (Natalie) Leonard and granddaughters Annabelle and Juliette [DeWitt MI}.  
      She was welcomed into heaven by brother Walter Krebs, husband Roland Messner, granddaughter Valerie (Masterson) Leonard and grandson Daniel Masterson. 
     Eleanor saw beauty in all things around her.  Some of her favorites were flowers of any kind, the clouds in the sky and the glittering crystals of ice on the snow.  She was a gifted artist and began painting in her preteen years.   At age 12 she began lettering windows ‘in memory of’ at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Fowlerville.  This skill grew into a business of sign painting in her adult years. She painted bill boards, semi trucks and doors/windows of business establishments in the Fowlerville and Howell area.  She was an avid photographer and would transfer the image into a landscape oil painting. She even dabbled in portraits.  Her adventurous artistic gifts expanded (at age 63) to carving a life size heron and a full size goose  from walnut.  Eleanor also was an accomplished seamstress, not only creating clothing for her family but also customized wedding dresses for friends. Eleanor was a great cook and the grandchildren always begged for her ‘beef meat, carrots and potatoes’ to be followed up by German chocolate cake.   Another favorite was her lemon meringue pie.
     Eleanor loved to travel with her husband Roland.  Together they traveled to the western national parks twice; sailed the Great Lakes of Michigan and then Florida coast with friends and visited her family in Germany.  In her later years, she took granddaughters Valerie and Jessica to Germany to meet their relations and again returned alone to visit family. 
Eleanor graduated from Fowlerville High School, worked at Howell Motors for three years.  She met future husband Roland while attending weekly dancing events in Mason with her brother Walter.  They married in April of 1948.  Her first home was on Howell/Mason Road and then they moved to S. Fowlerville Road where they farmed 80 acres, raised Angus cattle, cultivated a huge garden and canned the produce, and worked alongside their three children in all their 4-H projects.   There was a woodlot on the farm, and she loved to hunt for morel mushrooms, pick hickory nuts and ice skate on the pond in the woods.  She searched for and collected all kinds of rocks, but especially loved the ‘pudding stones’.   
     Eleanor had a strong faith in her Lord Jesus Christ.  She would tell of the day, when she was 9, that she met the Lord and became infused with His Spirit.  She always referred to the trinity as ‘her three Fathers’ and would talk to them continually.  She ended most days sitting on the couch and reading from her worn bible.   She attended St. Johns Lutheran Church in Fowlerville from age 3 until she moved to DeWitt in 2009.  She then attended Mt. Hope Church in Lansing with daughter Laura. 
     Eleanor lived a long and full life.  She loved her family with passion.  She is now healed, well and whole, living on the other side, ready to greet her loved ones.  Cremation has taken place.  A private family burial at Greenwood Cemetery will take place.  Arrangements entrusted to Herrmann Funeral Home. Online condolences may be expressed at pjherrmannfuneralhome.com 

Charles William Furtaw

      Charles (Charlie, Chas) William Furtaw, age 80, passed away on Wednesday, March 11, 2020 in Ocala, Fla. surrounded by his friends.
     Charles is survived by many friends from Oscoda, Romeo and Fowlerville, and Ocala, Fla. Charlie was a good man that loved golf, always ready to talk, listen or tell a joke and loved walking his dog Daisy. He will be remembered for his athletic ability, wit, and fun attitude.
    Charles was born in Oscoda on Jan. 11, 1940 to Arthur and Mable Furtaw. He was an athlete in basketball, baseball, football and track. He was also the Senior Class President of the Student Council and member of the Key Club, Junior and Senior Plays and the Varsity Club.
     He went to Central Michigan University where he got his BSA in education. He taught physical education and history in Oscoda. He then went to Fowlerville and taught social studies and was a golf coach.
     Charles is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Mable (Freer) Furtaw, Arthur (Artie) Furtaw; and friend, Sheila (Covey) Christensen.
     Memorial services will be held later this summer in Oscoda.

William J. David

     William J. David, age 86, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2020 at his home in Fowlerville, MI.  He was born on January 14, 1934 in Bad Axe, MI to Ford and Lillie (Lenaway) David. William “Bill” David had been a member of the Fowlerville community since 1968 when he purchased a farm and moved his family from Warren, MI.
     He spent his youth in Royal Oak, graduating from Royal Oak High School in 1952. He married Lillie Ann Hilzinger, also of Royal Oak, in April 1953.  Bill started his successful career as a sheet metal engineer and eventually fulfilled his lifetime dream of farming full time.  He was affectionately referred to as “Farmer Bill” and delighted when young children mistook him for Santa Claus.
     He was a member of the Detroit Curling Club, built numerous projects of his own design, performed in a Barber Shop Quartet, never lacked for a dance partner and truly never met a stranger. Bill loved his family and farm, and his favorite hobbies included camping, hunting, and fishing.  He especially enjoyed celebrating life with family and friends.   
     He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Lillie Ann; sister Marion (Robert) Krupitzer; daughters Bonnie (Paul) David-Such, Mary Ellen Loomis, Martha (William) Christine; sons William F. (Kelly) David and John David; nine grandchildren;five great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.  
     A celebration of Bill’s life will be held at a later date for friends and family. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Joseph Mercy Homecare & Hospice or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

Hazel Leinenger

    Hazel Leinenger, 74 years of age, who lived in Fowlerville, Michigan for the last 30 years, passed away on Thursday, April 30, 2020. Born in Frostburg, Maryland on October 9, 1945, she was the daughter of the late William Walter Ross, Sr. and Alretta Mae Loar Ross. 
     In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sister Thelma Cowart and her two brothers Richard and Walter Ross. Hazel is survived by her oldest son Lance Leinenger and his wife Jennifer Leinenger (Stockwell), her youngest son Forrest Leinenger, and Hazel’s two remaining sisters Virginia Madil and Freda Lake. 
    Hazel lived in the Village of Fowlerville since 1990. She will be best remembered as the friendly smiling face at the Fowlerville Walmart. 
    Visitation was on Monday, May 4, 2020 from 10:00 until the service time at noon at Herrmann Funeral Home.  Online condolences may be expressed at pjherrmannfuneralhome.com 

Richard Henry Gehringer

     Richard Henry Gehringer, 75, Speedway, Indiana, passed away on April 29, 2020.  Richard was the loving husband of Linda who passed away in August, 2018 and they are now together once again. 
    Richard was born in Adrian, Michigan on February 28, 1945, son to the late Claude and Catherine Gehringer.  He graduated from Fowlerville High School in 1963.  Richard worked in the automotive paint/parts industry his entire life, retiring in 2014.  Richard was recently employed with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum as a host. He was awarded a ROSE recognition which is given to outstanding employees in the hospitality service industry.  He received this award because of his helpfulness to others, knowledge of race cars and his sweet smile.  
     Richard leaves behind his two daughters: Jayme Gehringer of Speedway, IN and Liz (Mike) Stevens of Lebanon, OH; grandsons, Jake and Eli and great-grandson, Bentley. His brother, Tom, predeceased him in 2011. He is survived by his sister, Karen (Barry) Andrus of Ada, MI.,  along with cousins, nieces, nephews and special friends – especially those that loved to go hunting or play golf with him.
   A celebration of life will be held later this year in Michigan.  Memorial donations in his name can be made to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum https://indyracingmuseum.org/join-and-give/donate/ 

Eastern Ingham Farmers Market to open as scheduled on Sunday, May 17
      Market Manager Tom Cary and the Board of Directors of Sowing Growth, the non-profit operating the Eastern Ingham Farmers Market in Williamston, are busy preparing for the May 17th Opening Day of the Farmers Market in the McCormick Park parking lot in Williamston. The Market will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.  
     The Market is directing any vendor or volunteer and asking customers to: 
    -- stay home if they feel ill
    --wear masks
    --avoid touching their faces and vendor products, and 
    --wash their hands regularly. There will be at least two hand washing stations available at the Market for visitors and vendors.  
    --take advantage of the Market's new pre-order/pre-pay/pickup system with details on the Market website (www.EasternInghamFarmersMarket.org)
      --be efficient when purchasing directly from vendors using a prepared shopping list. 
    Market Manager Tom Cary noted that “We will be open to provide fresh, healthy food, but the Market will look and feel different due to COVID-19 operational changes for the foreseeable future, including modifying the Market’s layout to accommodate social distancing of pedestrian traffic. We will also have a preorder/prepay/pickup booth for customers who took advantage of that option by ordering the week before each Market.”
     The Market will have one-way pedestrian traffic with 6-foot markings on the pavement along with signs to remind patrons to observe this distance, similar to what grocery stores are doing. Vendors will be assigned to every other space to assure at least 6 feet of space between vendor stalls.  Prepared food will be pre-packaged and available as take-out only. 
     The Market will continue to participate in food assistance programs.
     Contact Market Manager Tom Cary at 517-525-5293 or email him at EasternInghamFM@gmail.com with any questions about the Market, the food assistance programs, becoming a vendor, or becoming a volunteer.  Given the enhanced safety precautions at the Market this season, volunteers are a particular need. 
      Updates and additional information on the May 17, 2020 Opening Day of the Eastern Ingham Farmers Market will be posted on the Market’s Facebook page and its website at easterninghamfarmersmarket.org, and in its weekly newsletter

Flowering Plant Sale to benefit Farmers Market: Orders due Tuesday, May 12
     It's not too late to purchase some beautiful flowering plants that will be perfect for your yard and garden this year. This sale supports the Eastern Ingham Farmers Market in Williamston to purchase equipment and supplies. With COVID-19, more equipment and protective gear needs to be in place to operate this year’s Market.
     The plants (Weigela, hydrangea, rose-of-Sharon, Ringo rosa, Shasta daisy, dianthus, dwarf lilac) were carefully chosen because of their popularity, their show of color, and because they are perfect for our growing zone. They will make a super gift. They are Michigan-grown by the Four Star Nursery & Dusty Acres in Fowlerville. 
      Order online by May 12 with delivery at the Market on May 24th: www.EasternInghamFarmersMarket.org and click on "order online" where you will see illustrations of, and details about, each plant.
     This fundraiser will also have these beautiful plants for sale at all the May Farmers Markets (Sunday, May 17, 24, 31) but the cost of purchasing plants at the Market will likely be higher, so pre-Market purchases are encouraged.       
      Each order will be confirmed by email, providing details of the pickup. Thank you for supporting the Eastern Ingham Farmers Market in Williamston! 

Nancy Keeney

     Nancy Keeney was born December 13, 1956 in Elkhart, Indiana.  Daughter of the late Vernon Frazier and the late Janet (Ropp) Frazier and passed away April 25, 2020 at the age of 63. Nancy’s family moved to Southern California in the late 1950’s and she grew up there. She was a 1975 graduate of Lowell High School.  
     Nancy earned two nursing degrees and worked 20 years as a Ob/Gyn Nurse bringing numerous new lives into the world.  Eventually she attained a Bachelor’s degree in Health Care Administration from Colorado University.  She retired in 2019 from the John D. Dingell V.A. Medical Center in Detroit as  a Medical Administrator.  
    Nancy’s lifelong overriding interest was giving a sense of family to those that needed it and caring for her own family.  If asked what she wanted as a present for her birthday, Christmas, etc, her response was always the same: “a clean house and a happy family.”  Nancy’s strong Christian faith sustained her throughout her life and she loved to share her faith with others.  
     Surviving are her husband, Tim of Webberville; daughter, Jessica (Dexter) Gregg of Los Angeles, CA; son, Loren of Lansing; son, Stirling (Deborah) of Mason; granddaughter, Violet of Mason; step-daughter and granddaughter, Brandi and Kimberly Mendes of Los Angeles; mother-in-law, Laura Anderson of Lansing; siblings, Laura Ericson, Tom Frazier and Dan Frazier; numerous friends and her church family at the Place of Refuge Church in Fowlerville.  
    A memorial service celebrating Nancy’s life will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Herrmann Funeral Home.  Online condolences may be expressed at pjherrmannfuneralhome.com 

Robert Edward Lockwood

     Robert Edward Lockwood, age 89, of Fowlerville, MI, went to be with his LORD and Savior on Sunday, April 26, 2020.  He was born August 28, 1930, to Leslie and Olga (Lott) Lockwood.
     Bob grew up in Lansing, MI, and graduated with honors from Lansing Tech in 1948.  He was quite an athlete earning nine letters on his high school sports team, including 1st all-city basketball team, and pitching a no-hitter in baseball.  Bob was a skilled tradesman in plumbing, electrical, and building.   He worked for     X-Cell-O Corporation, later for Livingston County as a building inspector and then as Building and Grounds Facilities Supervisor. Bob served his country in the Michigan National Guard, retiring after 20 some years of service. 
    Bob married Frances J. "Janey" Kelley on Oct. 7, 1950, in Angola, Indiana.   They resided in Cohoctah Township for 66 years.  Janey was the love of his life, exemplified in the loving way he cared for her until her passing in 2007. They were married 56 years. 
     Bob was a long-time active member of Calvary Bible Church of Cohoctah.  He loved his LORD and his church family.  He found it very difficult to not attend services these past weeks due to Michigan's "Stay Home-Stay Safe" order.
    Bob deeply loved his family and was so proud of each of his grandchildren.  He is survived by 2 sons, Tom (Vicky) Lockwood of Byron and Mike (Ruthann) Lockwood of Fowlerville, and daughter Terry (Mark) Hatt of Fowlerville, 16 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.  Preceding him also in death was his sister, Barbara "Bonnie" (Lockwood) Cross. 
  Burial took place at the Sanford Cemetery in Cohoctah Township with immediate family attending.  A memorial service will be held at a later date for friends and family.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to The Guest House of Fowlerville, 135 Free Street, Fowlerville, MI, 48836.  
    Arrangements entrusted to Herrmann Funeral Home. Online condolences may be expressed at pjherrmannfuneralhome.com.

Daniel Edward Shea 

07/07/1954 - 04/27/2020

     Daniel has resided in Howell, Michigan for the past 22 years. He was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Jean Shea, his sister Kathleen Jagdmann, and his daughter Mandie Beauchamp. 
     Daniel is survived by his son Matthew Shea, his son-in-law Jason Beauchamp, and his grandchildren: Kyle (Melinda), Nathan, Grace, Kallie, Joseph, Natalie, and Jonathan, and his great grandson Kason. In addition, Daniel is also survived by his brother-in-law Ken Jagdmann, nephew Mike Jagdmann (Amy), nieces Dianne McAuliffe (Dan), and Terri Miles (Jason), along with their children. 
     Visitation was held on Thursday, April 30, at 10:00 a.m. with a funeral service following at 11:00 at Herrmann Funeral Home.  Online condolences may be expressed at pjherrmannfuneralhome.com

Melvin Martz Griffith

    Melvin Martz Griffith, formerly of Williamston, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, April 11, 2020 just 25 days before his 98th birthday. Born May 6, 1922 to Arthur and Bertha (Martz) Griffith in Decatur, Michigan. 
     During World War II, Melvin worked at the Willow Run Bomber Plant in Ypsilanti, Michigan. It was there that he met his future wife, Grace Helen Edwards. The two were married on July 6, 1945 and their union continued until she preceded him in death in 1989.
     The Griffiths moved to Fowlerville from Garden City in 1956 since they wanted to raise their family in a rural area.  They lived there until 1976 when they relocated to Williamston.  He graduated from Decatur, MI high school, class of 1939.  
     Melvin retired in 1989 from East Lansing Public Schools as a groundskeeper. It was a job he truly enjoyed because of his "green thumb" and desire to be outdoors. In addition to gardening, he liked to take brisk walks. He was an avid MSU basketball and Detroit Tiger baseball fan. He also had many stories about his life experiences that he was quick to share with family, neighbors and friends. 
     He was a humble and caring man who took pleasure in helping his family and others, and in serving his Lord. He will be greatly missed by all those who loved him.
     Surviving are his daughter, Diann (Edward) Helzerman; sons, Bruce (Nancy) Griffith and Wayne (Marilee) Griffith; grandchildren, Jennifer (Rob) Spaulding, Allyson Griffith, Jacqueline (Aaron) Donovan, Melody (John) Williams, Bradley (Andrea) Griffith; brother, Orville (Marlene) Griffith; sister-in-law, Priscilla Campbell; great-grandchildren, Rachel, Lindsey, and Reagan Spaulding;  Parker and Sutton Williams; and Emery and Christian Donovan; and many nieces and nephews.
    In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by sisters, Eula Roehm and Irene Calbetzor and brother Kenneth. 

Ralph J. Maresco, Jr.

     Ralph J. Maresco, Jr. was born on September 27, 1942, in Mt. Vernon, New York and went to meet Jesus on April 23, 2020. Ralph served in the Air Force from 1961-1965 and was stationed in England. He also served in the Air National Guard for 20 years.
     Ralph worked at the ‘New York Daily News’ for over 40 years.
     Ralph leaves behind his wife Katherine, sisters - Judy Rohl and Sally Breck (Harold) both of California, children - Thomas, Nancy (Art), Annette (James) and four grandchildren- Anastasia, Rosalina, Cruz and Ava. Ralph also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.
     Ralph was continually active at St. Agnes Catholic Church. He was the dining room manager at the Welcome Table for 12 years - which serves a community meal every Thursday.
    Ralph started the bread ministry at St. Agnes and has passed the torch on to Jerry.
    Ralph was also a Lay Franciscan of San Damiano Fraternity.
    Ralph loved helping others. He was always out first thing with his snowblower cleaning the neighbor’s driveways.
    Ralph will be deeply missed by his family. May he rest in peace.
     A celebration of Ralph’s life will be held at a later date for friends and family.
    In lieu of flowers please donate to the Family Impact Center in Fowlerville: https://familyimpactcenters.com/donate/ or the Capuchin Soup Kitchen in Detroit -Capuchin Soup Kitchen - Online Donation  
     Arrangements entrusted to Herrmann Funeral Home.  Online condolences may be expressed at pjherrmannfuneralhome.com 

Webberville FFA annnounces annual plant sale postponed
    Due to the current mandates, Webberville FFA has postponed its annual plant sale.  
    "The chapter is disappointed to postpone, but hopeful that we can fulfill orders as planting season becomes a bit more realistic," said FFA Advisor Colleen Scott Keiser.  "Our inventory is a bit more limited, this year. However, we have a nice variety of vegetables, flowers, herbs, and perennials that the community has grown to appreciate."  
     More details will be forth coming. Please send inquiries to cscott@webbervilleschools.org.

‘RUN FOR THE IMPACT’ 5K/1Mile VIRTUAL RUN 2020 Fundraiser
     Family Impact Centers has strived to put on a fun, safe, family-friendly community event for the past seven years.  It is with great sadness and disappointment that we will not be able to host, in person, the ‘Run for the Impact’ 5K/1Mile races this year. 
     Along with the governor’s executive order banning large group gatherings, we remain committed to making certain our participants remain safe and healthy. 
    With that said, the race must go on, and we have decided to continue as a VIRTUAL Run/Walk. Therefore, we encourage everyone to run or walk outside or on a treadmill – any distance, any pace, any time, any location.  We would love to see pictures and posts of your experience on our facebook page, using https://tinyurl.com/FICrun2020
     This virtual run or walk will still allow everyone to contribute to a worthy cause, all while providing motivation to be active. Registration will stay open thru JUNE 12TH. To register, go to https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/Fowlerville/RunfortheImpact3
     Details as to how you can pick up your  t-shirt are still being worked out, and we will notify you at a later date as to how it will transpire.   If you are not interested in running virtually and receiving a t-shirt, a donation would be greatly appreciated.
     Run for the Impact is an annual fundraiser for Family Impact Centers. We depend on donations to continue supporting area families through our client-choice Food Pantry, as well as all of the many restorative programs offered at our Family Impact Wellness Center.
    Thank you for your understanding of this difficult situation. We wish everyone good health in the upcoming months as we plan next year’s 9th annual ‘Run for the Impact’. Looking forward to seeing you in 2021!
     Questions? Contact Sheila Larson at  sheilamaelars@gmail.com.

Sports & Apparel offers protective face masks, with profits donated to the Family Impact Centers 
    With more and more people looking for personal protective face masks, Sports & Apparel in Fowlerville has them in-stock and ready to go. 
    ALL PROFITS from the sale of these masks will be donated to the THE FAMILY IMPACT CENTERS OF FOWLERVILLE. 
     "We see this as a great opportunity, to supply what has become a critical item that people are looking for, while trying to help those that need help the most," said Randy Cook of Sports & Apparrel.  “The Family Impact Centers offers a wide array of help to our local community, including a food pantry, clothing, counseling services and more!”
For more information about The Family Impact Centers, please go to their website: familyimpactcenters.com
   The facemasks offered are 3 ply, designed for basic/ general protection, and are not designed for medical use or comparable with the N95 face mask. 
    Two color choices are available, while supplies last. 
    Orders can be placed by calling Sports & Apparel, or online from the Sports & Apparel website: www.sportsnapparel.com
    Customers can choose curbside delivery at Sports & Apparel's store in Fowlerville, or by US MAIL directly to your  home. The store is located on Power Street, one block north of North Grand Avenue.
    “At Sports & Apparel we're happy to offer these masks, while helping The Family Impact Center in their mission to help those most in need,” said Cook.