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/).

 Kimberly (Kim) Rochelle Blanton

    On March 27th, 2026, Kimberly (Kim) Rochelle Blanton gained her wings, surrounded by her family.

    Kim was born on November 23rd, 1973 in Michigan. A beloved mother, daughter, sister, aunt, cousin and friend. Kim loved nature, music, crafts and hanging out making memories. Kim had the biggest heart, she was kind, a great listener and always made everyone around her feel welcomed.

    Kim is survived by her significant other Jason Blum; her children CC (Erick) Albert, Rob (Audrey) Gladstone; her parents Judy (Jim) Luttrell, the late Bill (Nicky) Blanton; her sisters Rachel (John Rose) Blanton, Lisa (Fred) Grix, Aundrea Ferich, Crystal (Kyu) Park; her brothers Jeremey (Diane) Ferich, Jason Ferich, William (Roseanne Richardson) Blanton; her nieces Devin, Madison, Courtney; a nephew Gavin and her amazing grandson Andrew Ross.

    Kim also leaves behind her fur babies Bella, Trouble and Callie.

    Kim was preceded in death by her father William (Bill) Blanton and her brother Kevin Ferich.

    Kim will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her, and the love she shared will continue to live in our hearts and memories forever.

 Webberville Library

115 South Main Street, Webberville, MI 48892

(517) 521-3984 • facebook.com/cadlwebberville

M, W 10-6-

T, Th, F 2-6-

Sat 10-1- Sun Closed

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Upcoming Events

Storytime with Miss Betty

Family • Wednesdays • 10:30am

Join the one & only Miss Betty for a little singing, a little dancing and of course, reading, too. Followed by a fun craft or activity!

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Coffee & Cribbage

Adults • Wednesdays • 1-3pm

Drop by the library for a game of cribbage, conversation and a cup of coffee or tea.

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Book Club

Adults • Fourth Thursdays • 6pm

Check out your copy of each month’s book at the library and join us for the discussion.

April (4/23)—The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

May (5/28)—The Dry by Jane Harper

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Neighborly Know-How

Adults • Fourth Thursdays • 5pm

Our new show & tell style series features local experts from our community sharing on the subjects they’re passionate about. Join us the fourth Thursday of the month at 5pm.

April (4/23)—Michigan Rocks: Local lapidarist, Marv Martin, will talk about the rocks and minerals you’ll find by the Great Lakes with lots of specimens to touch.

May (5/28)—Adventures in Rug-Hooking—Webberville hooking legend, Sallie Brodie, will share the ins and outs of hooking rugs.

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Take & Make Kits

Ages 6-12

Every month we have a new kit featuring everything you need to do something fun. Available while supplies last.

April—April Fools Pranks—Celebrate April Fools Day all month long with this kit!

May—Make a Pet Pig—Inspired by Wilbur from Charlotte’s Web, make your own pet pig. Warning! Kit comes with a little (plastic) spider to be your pig’s best friend.

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Seed Library

Get growing with seeds from our seed library! This year we’re looking to garden for our native pollinators featuring Sand Tickseed, Purple Coneflower, Common Milkweed and the One Seed, One State pick—Pacific Beauty Calendula. Milkweed Stratification Kits are available while supplies last. We also have a wide assortment of seeds generously provided by the Webberville Garden Club.

 Webberville United Methodist Church serving Chicken Dinner on April 18th

    Webberville United Methodist Church, located at 4215 E. Holt Rd. is serving a ‘drive through’ Chicken Dinner on Saturday, April 18. The dinner includes two pieces oven fried chicken, mashed potatoes, chicken gravy, green beans, corn casserole, coleslaw, roll and cookies. All for $12 (NEW PRICE). Dinner served 5 to 7 pm or until we run out.

 Historical Corner

Newly-formed Fowlerville Area Historical Society to focus on local community

    The arrival of Spring is bringing new developments in the discovery and preservation of area history. The Livingston Centre Historic Village was the site of improvements in 2025 as a result of dedicated committee members and local volunteers. To build on that, and to reach beyond the Village boundaries, in an effort to sustain and maintain other elements of local history, a new non-profit organization is forming.

    The Fowlerville Area Historical Society is an independent group that will join other area groups in strengthening many aspects of this community. This FAHS will meet the 1st Thursday of every month inside Fowlerville District Library, 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm.

    The Historic Village will remain in the care of the Livingston Center Historic Society. This is one of the many committees under the umbrella of the Fowlerville Agricultural Society. The FAS reaches into all of Livingston County, while the new FAHS will focus more on the local area, as do the historical societies of other Livingston County towns and municipalities. The FAHS will continue to support the activities within the Historic Village, where Livingston County history is on display in eight preserved buildings.

    The FAHS invites all area residents to attend the monthly meetings and learn about upcoming activities, membership opportunities for individuals of all ages, families and local businesses, and to bring the perspective of the many facets of Fowlerville.

    Continue to watch the Historical Corner in your Fowlerville News & Views for details and upcoming events, such as the annual Clean Up Day at the Historic Village on May 13th. Information on upcoming history-related presentations at the library can also be found in their column.

    The next meeting will be Thursday, May 7 at 6:00 pm. For questions or thoughts to share before then, please email the FAHS at fowlervillehistory@gmail.com. Information, specific dates, and photos can also be found on the Facebook page: Fowlerville Area Historical Society.

 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 8 & 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 ● 11 am

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Farmer’s Market Meeting

A meeting will be held here for vendors interested in being part of this year’s farmer’s market. 

Thurs, April 9 ● 6 pm

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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, Apr 10 ● 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, Apr 6 ● 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 4/6, 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, Apr 9 & May 7 ● 6 pm. Registration is not required.

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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

Collection of Train Books

PHOTO OF DAVE THOMPSON

Ask at the front desk to explore our fine collection of train books in the historical room.

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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.