Norbert J. Schrauben

Norbert J. Schrauben, age 89, of St. Johns passed away June 24, 2009. He was born in Riley Twp., on June 16, 1920, the son of Christopher Schrauben and Bernita (Pung) Schrauben-Cook. He was the co-owner and manager of Rayborn True Value Hardware in Belding, MI, retiring in 1982 after 27 years. Norbert married Florence Kiskey in Belding on December 6, 1944, and she preceded him in death in 1982. He was a member of both St. Joseph Catholic Church in Belding and St. Joseph Catholic Church in St. Johns, a past member of the Belding Chamber of Commerce and a Veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard.

Norbert is survived by two daughters, Susan Christopher of Warner Robins, GA, and Beth (Bill) Swears of St. Johns, sisters, Mary Ann Hoy of Kalamazoo, Bea Gray of Grand Ledge, Theresa (Pat) Lawless of Harbor Springs, Joanne (Dick) Hofmann of Kawkawlin and Bernita (Gayle) Miller of Grand Ledge, grandchildren, Jeffrey (Deb) Swears, Dana Swears, Clay Christopher, Travis Christopher and Meghan (Kirk) Cornelius, great grandchildren, Jordan, Greg and Katie Swears and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded by his wife, Florence, his parents, Christopher Schraben and Bernita (Pung) Schrauben-Cook and four brothers, Maurice, Alvin, Paul and David.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m., on Saturday, June 27, 2009 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in St. Johns, with Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. The family will receive friends from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., on Friday with a rosary being prayed at 7:00 p.m. at Osgood Funeral Home, 104 E. Cass St., St. Johns. Sympathy may be expressed in the form of memorial contributions to Sparrow Hospice of Lansing or St. Joseph Catholic School in St. Johns. To participate in Norbert's life and memories please see www.lifestorynet.com/memories/49339.

Deanna Piggott

Deanna Piggott, age 60, of Fowler, passed away Tuesday, June 16, 2009, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Mrs. Piggott was born April 10, 1949 in Lansing, Michigan, the daughter of Walter and Beulah (Bishop) Dick.

Mrs. Piggott was a devoted wife to her husband, Daniel, of 40 years. They were married on August 23,1968, in St. Johns and shared their lives together in Fowler. She cherished her family and was a loving mother to her four children and proud grandmother of 11 grandchildren.

Her love of people and compassionate heart were traits that came easily and made her a joy to be around. She truly lived the saying, "there are no strangers here, only friends we have not yet met." You could always count on Deanna for a funny story or a compassionate shoulder to lean on. She touched the lives of many and her legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Deanna is survived by her husband, Daniel; daughter, Michelle (Curt) Myers of Potterville; sons, Scott (Donna) Piggott of Fowler, Michael (Laurie) Piggott of Fowler, and Brian (Emily) Piggott of Lansing; grandchildren, Danielle, Rachel, Kaitlin, Tyler, Tony, Andrea, Makayla, Andrew, Jacob, Grace, and Ryan; brothers, Walter Dick of Beaverton and Fred (Mary) Dick of Merritt; sister, Mary (Elias) Estrada of Lansing; and mother-in-law, Marie Piggott. Mrs. Piggott was preceded in death by her father and mother, Walter and Beulah; and father-in-law Vernon Piggott.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:30 a.m., Friday, June 19 at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Fowler with burial following at Most Holy Trinity Cemetery. The Mass will be officiated by Rev. Fr. Dennis Howard. The family will receive friends at the Goerge Chapel of the Osgood Funeral Homes at 11112 W. Ionia St. in Fowler, 6-9 p.m., Wednesday and 2-4 and 7-9 p.m., Thursday with a rosary at 8 p.m. on Wednesday and a vigil service at 8 p.m. on Thursday evening. Sympathy may be expressed in the form of memorial contributions to the Most Holy Trinity Educational Trust Fund. To participate in the celebration of Deanna's life and memory please go to www.lifestorynet.com/memories/49117/

Cora H. Paynter

Cora H. Paynter passed away on Saturday, June 13, 2009 at the age of 100. Cora was born February 7, 1909 in Detroit to James and Ida Burns, the second youngest of five daughters. She was born and raised in the Detroit area, then after marriage in 1960 she moved to Cobourg, Ontario. After her husband, Charlie, passed away in September of 1966, she lived in Canada for several years and then she returned to the Livonia area for the remainder of her life.

Cora is survived by her nephew, Robert (Diane) Burton, great niece Elizabeth (Dr. Matthew) Carr, great great niece Rachel Carr, great nephew Douglas Burton, great niece Heidi (William) Bollinger and great great niece Megan Bollinger.

Cora was preceded in death by her husband Charles Samuel Paynter and her four sisters, Florence (Edmund) Dover, Helen (Christopher) Gasser, Grace (Lloyd) Burton and Alice (Frank) MacGoff.

Cora was a member of the Westminster Church of Detroit and the St. Peters Anglican Church of Cobourg, Ontario. She enjoyed travel and was touring Europe with her older sister when they were in their ninties. Cora retired from the Detroit Board of Education where she was a secretary.

A memorial service will be held at the Westminster Church of Detroit at 12:30 pm June 28th. Sympathy may be expressed in the form of memorial contributions to either the American Cancer Society or Westminster Church, 17567 Hubbell St., Detroit, Michigan (313) 341-2697.

Barbara Schafer

Barbara A. Schafer passed away June 14, 2009 at the age of 76. She was born in Ionia, Michigan on September 12, 1932, the daughter of John J. and Beatrice (Stoddard) Howorth. On September 22, 1956, Barbara married Henry Schafer in Pewamo. Barbara was a member of St. Joseph Catholic parish in Pewamo, Michigan.

She is survived by her daughters, Brenda Goerge and Diane (Robert) McKinney; her sons, Keith (Tina) Schafer and John (Denise) Schafer. Barbara is also survived by her grandchildren, Brandy (John) Murray, Sherri Schafer, Jennifer Schafer, Danielle Goerge, Abigail Goerge, Samuel McKinney, Allison McKinney, Heinz Kirkpatrick, April Bensel, Crystal Bensel and Janelle Bensel; 12 great grandchildren; brothers Roy (Pat) Howorth and Charles (Joan) Howorth; special friend, Doreen Lewis and many nieces and nephews. Along with her parents, Barbara was preceded in death by her sister, Rosemary Howorth.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 18 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Pewamo, burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery also in Pewamo with the Rev. Fr. Charlon Mason officiating. Visitation will be 6-8 pm Tuesday June 16 and 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., Wednesday at the Osgood Funeral Home 104 E. Cass St. in St. Johns. There will be a rosary service at 7 p.m. Wednesday evening. Sympathy may be expressed in the form of contributions to Hazel I. Findley Country Manor 1101 S. Scott Rd. St. Johns, MI 48879. To participate in the celebration of Barbara's life and memory please go to www.lifestorynet.com/memories/49017/.

James Jakus

James D. Jakus died June 7, 2009 at the age of 69. He was born in Owosso, MI on January 17, 1940, the son of Antonine and Teresa (Hestera) Jakus. Jim married Carolyn Edwards on August 3, 1963 in St. Johns and she survives him. Jim retired from MSU, loved the outdoors, enjoyed camping and cherished the special times with his grandkids. He was preceded in death by his mother, grandparents and mother-in-law, Jeanne Edwards.

Jim is survived by his children, Trent, Aaron (Jill), Ethan (Wendy), grandchildren, Kayle, Cheyenne, Kole, Kody and Alexa, his father, Antonine, brothers, John (Janet), Richard (Jane), Ken (Diane), Steve and father-in-law, Charles Edwards.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, June 11, 2009 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in St. Johns, with the Rev. Fr. Eoin Murphy officiating, burial following at Mt. Rest Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the Osgood Funeral Home, 104 E. Cass St., St. Johns, on Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. and Wednesday, 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., with a Rosary being prayed Tuesday at 7 p.m. and a Vigil Service on Wednesday at 7 p.m. Contributions may be made to Jakus Grandkids Educational Trust Fund c/o Citizens Bank, 200 W. Higham St., St. Johns, MI 48879.

Barbara MacKinnon

Barbara Ingram Bull MacKinnon passed away June 4, 2009, at the age of 80. She was born in Grand Rapids, MI on March 16, 1929, the daughter of Frank L. and Kathleen (Ingram) Bull of Sparta, MI. On May 16, 1953, Barbara married A. Fraser MacKinnon in Sparta, MI. Barbara attended Ward Belmont College in Nashville, TN and graduated from Cornell University with a Bachelors Degree in Home Economics. She was a Registered Dietician, and worked at the University of Michigan Hospital, Ferguson Droste Hospital in Grand Rapids and the Clinton Memorial Hospital in St. Johns. Barbara furthered her education and was a certified instructor in Food Service Management for the Ingham Intermediate School District. Barbara was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in St. Johns, served on the Briggs Library board for over 27 years, was a member of the Clinton Memorial Hospital Auxiliary for over 47 years and was a member of the Mint City Garden Club. She enjoyed gardening, traveling and spending time with her family and friends at their cottage on Pickerel Lake in Newaygo, MI.

Barbara is survived by her husband Fraser, her children, Alexander Fraser (Jane) MacKinnon and Elizabeth (James) MacKinnon Eaton, her grandchildren, Margaret Ingram Wright, Andrew Fraser MacKinnon and Duncan Fraser Wright, her brother Dr. R. John Bull and many loving nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Monday, June 8, 2009 at 1 P.M. at the First United Methodist Church of St. Johns at 200 E. State St. with Pastor Lori Sykes officiating. Burial will follow the services at the Mt. Rest Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 3-6 P.M. Sunday, June 7 at the Osgood Funeral Home 104 E. Cass St. in St. Johns. Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church of St. Johns or a charity of the donor's choice.

Please visit www.lifestorynet.com/memories/48764/. The family wishes to thank all the caring staff of Sparrow Hospice and Grace Haven Assisted Living and especially her hospice nurse, Susan Smith, R.N.

Lynne Annette Buggs

Lynne Annette Buggs passed away on May 31, 2009 at the age of 50. Lynne was born November 18, 1958 in St. Johns, Michigan the daughter of Gerald and Mary Ellen (Gannon) Buggs. She was a member of St. John Student Center in East Lansing and was a home health nurse for many years.

Lynne is survived by her son Dylan Smith, mother Mary Ellen Buggs; seven sisters and brothers, Karen (Bill) Pioszak, Joyce (Bob) Sherwood, Jean Buggs, Mary Anne (James) Marshall, Rick Buggs, Joe Buggs and Tim (Mary) Gannon. Lynne is also survived by many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Jerry Buggs.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 9 at the St. John's Student Center 327 M.A.C., East Lansing with Rev. Fr. Mark Inglot officiating. The family will receive friends at 10:00 a.m. before the Mass at the church.  Memorial contributions may be made to St. John's Student Parish. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com/memories/48673/ where you can leave a favorite memory, submit a photo, or sign Lynne's online guest book.

Stuart L. Openlander

Stuart L. Openlander died May 20, 2009. He was born near Wacousta, MI on Easter Sunday, April 7, 1912, the son of Deon (Lee) and Charles Openlander. He married Jean Anderson of St. Johns on May 19, 1936. She preceded him in death as did his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Dale and Caroline Anderson and brother, Herman Openlander.

He is survived by his son, Don (Tracy) Openlander of Winnemucca, NV and his daughter Marilyn (Dave) Cotton of Wacousta, MI. He is survived by his grandchildren, Jerry (Dave) Karrar, Adrienne Openlander and Kirsten Openlander, all in NV, Lee Cotton of St. Johns, Carrie (Jason) Hengesbach of Wacousta and 8 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Geneva Openlander, many nieces and nephews and his cousin, Margaret (Lee) Noble.

He attended Albion College where he earned his BA degree. He earned his Masters at U of M and his Doctorate of Education at Michigan State University. He taught first in Holt where he became principal and then superintendent. He was then superintendent in Wayne and Dearborn, MI, and then Parma, Parma Hts. and Seven Hills district in Ohio. After his retirement, he worked part time for Lansing Community College. Dr. Openlander was a member of the Lowe United Methodist Church. He was a life member of the Wacousta/Dewitt Masonic Lodge #359 and the St. Johns Kiwanis Club. He had 59 years of perfect attendance in various Kiwanis Clubs.

There will be a Memorial Service at the Wacousta United Methodist Church in Wacousta on Sunday, June 7, 2009 at 1:00 p.m with Pastor Kathy Leydorf officiating. Sympathy may be expressed in the form of donations to the Stuart L. Openlander Kiwanis Scholarship Fund. Arrangements made by Osgood Funeral Homes. To learn more about Stuart visit his personal web page at www.lifestorynet.com/memories/48565/ where you can view his Life Story film and further participate in his memory.

Delmont LaFountain

Delmont Preston La Fountain went home to be with his Lord, May 15, 2009 at the age of 75. Born in Marshall, MI, July 9, 1933, the son of Clarence and Goldie (Cottle) La Fountain. He was a Carpenter by trade and was a member of the Carpenter’s Union Local #1004. He loved his family, enjoyed fishing, gambling and making others laugh.

He is survived by his daughters, Cynthia Ann La Fountain, Vicky (Daniel) Pumford, Barbara (Glen) Nethaway and Teri (Darryl) Hornbeck, his son, John La Fountain, twelve grandchildren, fourteen great grandchildren, sister, Mary Ellen Beals, brothers, Keith (Patricia) La Fountain and Garnett (Camille) La Fountain and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, granddaughter, Katie Mardel Nethaway and grandson, Jason John La Fountain.

Funeral services will be Sunday morning at 10 a.m., May 17, 2009 at the Houghton Chapel of Osgood Funeral Homes in Ovid, 232 E. Oak St., with visitation at the funeral home on Saturday, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Contributions may be made to a charity of the family’s choice.

Marcella M . Gensterblum

Marcella M. Gensterblum died May 8, 2009, at the age of 89. She was born in Westphalia, MI on April 26, 1920. She was a member of Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Fowler. Marcella was a kind hearted mother and friend. She loved flower gardening, baking, reading and good conversation.

Surviving are daughters, Ruth (Marion) Sillman, Marilyn (Tom) Harris, Sharon (Lewis) Hagle, Lu Ann (Marty) Miller, Mary Ellen (Robert) McQueen, Lynette (Larry) Brown and Jane (Glenn) VanElls. Also surviving her are her sons, Donald (Kris) Gensterblum and Luke Gensterblum, 24 grandchildren and 27 great grand children; her sister Mary Louise (Gerald) Rhynard, sister-in law Jenny Martin and many nieces and nephews. Marcella was preceded in death by her husband, Richard, sons, Richard and Lloyd, brothers, Harold, Urban and Elmer Martin.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, May 12, 2009 at Most Holy Trinity, 545 N. Maple, Fowler, burial at Most Holy Trinity Cemetery. The family will receive friends 2-4 and 7-9 P.M. on Monday at the Goerge Chapel of the Osgood Funeral Home with rosaries being prayed at 3 and 8 P.M. Sympathy may be expressed in the form of memorials to the donor's choice.

Michael Kramer

Michael J. Kramer, age 69 of Pewamo died Sunday, May 3, 2009 after a long battle with Pancreatic Cancer. Born on April 6, 1940 to Clement and B. Hyacinth (Blackmer) Kramer, Mike was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church of Pewamo, the Pewamo Knights of Columbus Post #8071 and the Hubbardston American Legion Post #182. He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his grandchildren, and all sports, especially those played by his grandchildren. Mike will be sadly missed by his wife of 45 years, Kathryn (Fox) Kramer whom he married on June 29, 1963 in Fowler at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

Also surviving are his children Michael (Leah) Kramer of Pewamo, Lori (Kevin) Schulte of Pewamo, Kelly Stewart of Pewamo, Shannon (Loren) Thelen of Pewamo, 11 grandchildren; siblings, Richard Kramer, Sr. Jean Kramer, OP and Linda Kramer; sister-in-law, Terrie Kramer, many special nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Mike is preceded in death by his parents and brother Raymond Kramer.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 AM Thursday, May 7, 2009 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Pewamo with the Rev. Fr. Charlon Mason officiating. The family will receive friends from 7-9 PM Tuesday and 2-4 PM and 7-9 PM Wednesday at the Goerge Chapel of the Osgood Funeral Homes in Fowler. A Rosary Service will be prayed at 8 PM Tuesday and 3 PM Wednesday and a Vigil Service will be held at 8 PM Wednesday. To learn more about Mike visit his personal web page at www.lifestorynet.com/memories/47862/ where you can view his Life Story film and further participate in his memory.

Jeannine B. Van hecke

Jeannine B. Van hecke passed away April 17, 2009 at the age of 79. Born in Ronse, Belgium on July 22, 1929, she was the daughter of Louis and Maria (Roman) Martens. Jeannine married Ernest Van hecke on January 6, 1949 and he preceded her in death on September 26, 1988. Jeannine loved to sew, knit , bead and make porcelain dolls. She cared deeply for the wellbeing of her family.

Jeannine is survived by her daughter, Beatrice Salada of St. Johns and her son Gus Van hecke of Fenton, Michigan. Jeannine is also survived by her grandchildren, Alissa (Mitch) Munger of St. Johns, Christine Van hecke of Fenton, Dr. Thomas (Elizabeth) Van hecke of Berkley, Michigan, Edward Van hecke of Texas, Beatrice (Chris) Sushynski of Midland, Michigan and Kathleen Van hecke of Flint; great grandchildren, Alexia Munger, Ariel, Skylar, Reese, Robert and Sidney Van hecke. Jeannine is survived by her sisters, Roberta (Theodore) Salamon of Welland, Ontario, Canada, Godilieve Martens Vanmaele and Monique (Christian) Smolders of Belgium along with many nieces and nephews. Besides her husband and parents Jeannine was preceded in death by her brother, Emiliene Martens.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated 10:30 AM Tuesday April 21, 2009 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in St. Johns with burial at Mt. Rest Cemetery immediately following, with the Rev. Fr. Eoin Murphy officiating. The family will receive friends from 6-8 PM Sunday April 19 and 2-4 and 6-8 Monday at Osgood Funeral Home in St. Johns. A Vigil Service will be held at 7 PM on Monday. Contributions may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network 2141 Rosecrans Ave., Suite 7000 El Segundo, CA 90245 or online at PanCan.org. To learn more about Jeannine visit her personal webpage at www.lifestorynet.com/memories/47384/ where you can view his Life Story film and further participate in her memory.

Gerald Thelen

Gerald V. Thelen died April 14, 2009 at the age of 88. Born December 23, 1920 in Fowler, MI the son of Arnold and Irma (Bauer) Thelen. He was a faithful member of Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, past Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus, a member of the 4th Degree and a proud member of the Farm Bureau. He married his loving wife of 64 years, Odelia Fedewa on June 7, 1944 and she preceded him in death on April 12, 2008.

Gerald is survived by his daughter, Gerrie (John) Dixon, three sons, Bill (Laurie) Thelen, George (Linda Hart) Thelen, Fr. Fred Thelen and daughter-in-law, Pat Thelen. Gerald is also survived by his grandchildren, Jennifer Thelen, Alana Thelen, Paul Thelen, Gina Dixon and Amber Dixon; many foster children over the years, including foster daughter, Kathy Miller and her family, sisters, Verena (Dahl) Deboer, Ambra (Richard) Hansen and brother, Clair (Margaret) Thelen. In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Lester Thelen.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:30 a.m., Friday, April 17, 2009 at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Fowler, burial at Holy Trinity Cemetery with Fr. Fred Thelen, Fr. Dennis Howard, Fr. Sylvester Fedewa and Fr. Matthew Fedewa officiating. The family will receive friends 7-9 p.m., Wednesday and 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. on Thursday at the Goerge Chapel of the Osgood Funeral Home, with Rosary Services at 8 p.m. on Wednesday and 3 p.m. on Thursday and a Vigil Service at 8 p.m. on Thursday.  Please visit www.lifestorynet.com/memories/47260/ where you can leave a favorite memory, submit a photo, or sign Gerald's online guest book.

Agnes Bensinger

Agnes Lillian Bensinger (Cotes), born January 24,1910 passed away to join the Lord April 12, 2009 in Kenosha, Wisconsin. She was preceded in death by her parents David and Anna (Husted) Cotes and her four siblings Bruce, Clarabelle, David and Ruth.

She is survived by her son Carl Oliver (Sabina)Williston; ten grandchildren; Christopher, Virginia, Thomas, Shirley Anne, Robert, Gerilynn, Michael Joe, Dominic, Charles and Satasha; 25 great grandchildren Natasha, Gerard, Victoria, Maria, Elizabeth, Christopher, Jennifer, Samantha, Michael Paul, Mathew, Jonathan, John Michael, Andrew, Stephanie, Alexander, Whitney, Alfred, Anthony, Madeline, Lillian, Asher, Danielle, Tessa and four great-great grandchildren Ashleigh, Sara, James, and Daniel.

Agnes graduated from 8th grade on June 3,1925. She received certification from Michigan Department of health Bureau of Child Hygiene and public health nursing March 7, 1928. She went on to graduate from Ovid high school on June 5, 1930. She graduated from Owosso business school February 24,1931. She worked in Wadsworth Furniture Company during WWII and later worked at Midwest abrasives until retirement. Agnes lived in the area for over 76 years where she raised abundant and fragrant flowers, apples, plums, cherries, raspberries, grapes, strawberries and always an abundant vegetable garden. She tapped her majestic sugar maple trees for over five decades and made maple syrup on a wood kitchen stove. She handed out cider and fry cake doughnuts for decades on Halloween. She was also an accomplished pastry chef who specialized in great fresh pies. As an accomplished seamstress she made quilts, clothing and doilies for her family and friends.

Her funeral will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, April 22 at the Houghton Chapel of the Osgood Funeral Homes in Ovid, Michigan with burial following the service at Maple Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 9 to11 a.m. prior to the funeral service. Arrangements are being handled by the Osgood Funeral Homes.

Joseph J. Beno, Sr.

Joseph J. Beno, Sr., our dear father and grandfather left this world on Sunday, April 12, 2009 at the honorable age of 92. He will be greatly missed by his family. Joe was born on January 11, 1917 in Ashley, Michigan, the son of Frank and Teresa (Rice) Beno. The family moved to Snover, Michigan, where he lived his young life. He married Anna Fabus on May 22, 1943. She preceded him in death on November 2, 1992. Joe lived at his homestead since 1948. He was a Navy Veteran of WW II. He was a factory worker as a tool and die maker and a farmer. He was a member of St. Cyril Catholic Church and the First Catholic Slovak Union. He loved polka dancing, watching WWE wrestling, fishing, hunting and was a member of the American Legion Post #502. He was predeceased by his parents and all of his eleven brothers and sisters and his very special companion and friend, Marie Schreiner.

He is survived by his four children, Janet Beno of Haslett, David (Kathy) Beno of Ovid, Fred Beno and Patricia Stover of Bannister and Joe Beno, Jr., of Elsie. Also, his three grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Kessey, and Michael Beno, and Kyler Carroll, a special friend of the family.

Mass of the Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, April 16, 2009 at St. Cyril Catholic Church in Bannister, burial at Riverside Cemetery in Elsie with the Rev. Fr. Wolfgang Streichardt officiating. The family will receive friends 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, with a rosary at 7 p.m., at the Houghton Chapel of Osgood Funeral Homes, 232 E. Oak St., Ovid. Sympathy may be expressed in the form of contributions to W.O.E.S. or St. Cyril Catholic Church.

Robert Gilroy

Robert N. Gilroy died April 9, 2009 at the age of 84. Born in Sault Ste. Marie on February 10, 1925, he was the son of Nelson and Ida Gilroy. Bob was a member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church in St. Johns, the Ushers Club, Knights of Columbus and a Navy veteran of WWII. He retired from the Engineering Dept. of Oldsmobile in 1979 after 31 years of service. Robert married Catherine Charles on June 3, 1947 and she preceded him in death on February 21, 1970.

Bob is survived by his wife, Phyllis whom he married in St. Johns on April 14, 1972. In addition to his wife, he is survived by sons, Robert (Deb) Gilroy of Lansing and Todd (Jeanie) Gilroy of St. Johns; daughters, Linda (Tom) Wright and Sherry (Terry) Sehlke, all of St. Johns; step-son, James (Jodi) Bappert of Grand Blanc; step-daughters, Sharon (Jack) Woodhams and Teresa (Tom) Villarreal, all of St. Johns, Kathryn (Ron) Shepard of Swartz Creek and Linda (Dan) Blair of Dimondale, 25 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; brother, Cecil Gilroy of Lansing. Bob was preceded in death by a son, Dean Gilroy; sisters, Gladys Flynn, Martha and Ellen Wilson, and brothers, Reginald, Russell, Clarence, Paul, Willard and Edward Gilroy.

A funeral mass will be celebrated 10:30 AM Monday, April 13, 2009 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in St. Johns with burial at Mt. Rest Cemetery immediately following. The Rev. Fr. Eoin Murphy officiating. The family will receive friends from 3-5 and 6-8 PM Saturday and 6-8 PM Sunday at Osgood Funeral Home in St. Johns. A Vigil Service will be held at 7 PM Sunday. Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or Sparrow Hospice. To learn more about Bob visit his personal webpage at www.lifestorynet.com/memories/47099/ where you can view his Life Story film and further participate in his memory.

Florence Koenigsknecht

Florence M. Koenigsknecht passed away April 8, 2009 at the age of 89, in St. Johns, Michigan. Florence was born on January 11, 1920 in Pewamo, Michigan, the daughter of Anthony and Mary (Klein) Miller. She was a member of Most Holy Trinity Parish as well as Christian Mothers and Daughters of Isabella. On April 29, 1946 Florence married Raymond Koenigsknecht in Pewamo and he preceded her in death on July 21, 2002.

Surviving her is her daughters Leone (Mark) Hufnagel, Agnes and Rita Koenigsknecht and Rose (Paul) Todd; sons, Marvin (Carolyn), Raymond, Norm (Karyn) and Albert (Shari) Koenigsknecht. Florence is also survived by 18 Grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren, her sister, Sarah Kowatch and many neices and nephews. Along with her husband, she was preceded in death by her daughters, Lucille Koenigsknecht and Lucy Higgs; son, Leon and grandson, Eric Koenigsknecht. She was also preceded by her sister, Laura Koenigsknecht and brothers, Reynold and Leonard Miller.

Funeral Mass will be held at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Fowler Monday, April 13, 2009 at 10:00 a.m., burial at Holy Trinity Cemetery with The Rev. Fr. Dennis Howard officiating. Family will receive friends 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the Goerge Chapel of the Osgood Funeral Homes on Sunday with rosaries prayed at 3 and 8 pm. For more informations and to participate in Florence's memory please go to www.lifestorynet.com/memories/47085/. Memorials may be made to Most Holy Trinity Catholic Parish and School in Fowler, Michigan. In Lieu of thank yous the family will make a donation to the Most Holy Catholic Parish and School. Arrangements are being made through the Osgood Funeral Homes.

Harold Martin

Harold E. Martin died April 8, 2009 at the age of 86. Born April 6, 1923 in Westphalia, MI he was the son of Oscar and Philomena (Schafer) Martin and live most of his life in the Fowler and Perrinton areas. He was a member of St. Martin DePorres Catholic Church, a WWII veteran and a member of the VFW Post #3733. On June 16, 1956 he married Frances J. Lengo and she preceded him in death.

Surviving are two sisters, Mary Louise (Gerald) Rhynard of St. Johns, and Marcella Genesterblum of Fowler, and several nieces and nephews. Harold was also preceded in death by two brothers, Urban and Elmer Martin.

A funeral mass will be celebrated 10:30 AM Tuesday, April 14, 2009 at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Fowler with burial at Most Holy Trinity Cemetery, the Rev. Fr. Dennis Howard officiating. The family will receive friends from 2-4 and 7-9 PM Monday, April 13, 2009 at the Goerge Chapel of the Osgood Funeral Homes in Fowler with a Rosary Service at 3 PM and Vigil Service at 8 PM. Memorials may be made to Great Lakes Hospice, 103 S. Jackson St., Jackson, MI 49201.

Edwin George

Edwin W. George, 73, of St. Johns passed away April 7, 2009. Born March 4, 1936 in Owosso, Edwin was the son of Stanley & Nellie (Ferman) George. He retired from General Motors in Lansing in 1991 and served in the Army for two years. He was married for 47 years to Carole Miller, who survives him.

Also surviving are daughters, Darcy George of St. Johns, Alana Johnson of Haslett, and Jenesse (Bill) Coleman of Pompeii; son, Chris (Kathy) George of St. Johns; grandchildren, Kadeem Johnson, Allyssa, Carly and Logan Coleman, Erin, Emily, Nathan, Audrey, and Benjamin George; sisters, Eunice Tiedt of St. Johns and Beverly Vargas of Anaheim, CA; brother, Don Adair of Elsie. Edwin was preceded in death by his parents; son-in-law, Andrew Johnson; brother, Raymond Adair; sisters, Lillian George and Joanne Lautt; brothers-in-law, Keith Tiedt, John Vargas and Duane Miller; sisters-in-law, Iola Adair and Darlene Miller; parents-in-law, Ernest and Louise Miller.

Services will be held 11 AM Saturday, April 11, 2009 at Osgood Funeral Home in St. Johns with the Pastor Clare Huyck officiating, burial at Lowe Cemetery immediately following. The family will receive friends from 4-8 PM Friday, April 10, 2009 at Osgood Funeral Home. Contributions may be made to Hospice House of Mid-Michigan, 1210 W. Saginaw, Lansing, MI 48915. To learn more about Edwin, go to www.lifestorynet.com/memories/47080/ where you can leave a favorite memory or sign the online register.

Josephine Vanderhoof

Josephine R. Vanderhoof, passed away April 4, 2009 at the age of 91. Josephine was born October 26, 1917 in White Lake Township, Michigan, the daughter of Forest and and Ruth (Leek) Brendel. On July 6, 1933 she married Floyd Vanderhoof in Angola, IN he preceded her in death on February 8, 1993.

Josephine is survived by her daughter Judy Gravilla and son Ed (Barbara) Vanderhoof; grandchildren, Chris Gravilla, Mike (Lessie) Gravilla, Laura Nix, Butch (Nicole) Vanderhoof and Emily Vanderhoof. Josephine is also survived by 9 great grandchildren. Along with her parents and her husband, Josephine was preceded in death by her three sisters, Beulah, Jane and Janet, and her two brothers, Fredrick and James.

Funeral Services will be at the Houghton Chapel of the Osgood Funeral Homes in Ovid, Michigan, Wednesday, April 8 at 2 P.M. followed by burial at the Fairfield Cemetery, Rev. David Hudgens will be officiating. The family will receive friends 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. at the funeral home on Tuesday. To view Josephine's Lifestory film and further participate in her memory please visit www.lifestorynet.com/memories/46935/. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association. Arrangements by the Osgood Funeral Home.

Louis Moritz

Louis T. Moritz died April 2, 2009 at the age of 88. He was born April 10, 1920 in Dallas Township, the only child of Edward and Amelia (Sudrow) Moritz. He was a Fowler High School graduate. Louis was a farmer and also worked for USDA in poultry research. He was a lifetime member of St. Paul Lutheran Church where he served as president, elder and various offices for several years. Louis married Mary Ellen Damon on May 14, 1941, and she survives him.

Also surviving are two sons, Clare Edward (Ann) Moritz of Grand Ledge, David Charles (Susan) of Elsie, two daughters, Kathy (David) Mensing of Tucson, AZ, Ann (Alan) Becker of Potterville, four grandchildren, 5 step grandchildren, and five step great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, and daughter, Nancy Lou in 1950.

Funeral services will be held, 11:00 A.M.,Wednesday, April 8, 2009 at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Fowler, burial at Mt. Rest Cemetery with Pastor Paul Clark officiating. The family will receive friends Monday from 6-8 P.M. and 2-4 and Tuesday from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M., followed by a prayer service at 8 P.M. at the Goerge Chapel of the Osgood Funeral Homes in Fowler. Memorials may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church in Fowler. Learn more about Louis, view his Life Story film and visit his personal web page at www.lifestorynet.com/memories/46924/   where you can archive a memory or photo, and sign his memory book before coming to the funeral home.

Carl Geller

Carl Joseph Geller passed away April 3, 2009 at the age of 91. He was born in Westphalia, Michigan on June 28, 1917, the son of Leo Geller and Katherine (Lenneman) Geller. Carl was a member of St. Joseph Catholic parish in Pewamo, Michigan. He was a retired office manager for the Michigan Dept. of State. He married Mary Elizabeth (Betty) Riley in Hubbardston in June of 1944, shortly after returning from 3 years of duty with the famed 32nd "Red Arrow" Infantry Division. Carl fought in the New Guinea campaign and the defeat of Japanese forces at the port city of Buna. He was a recipient of the military Purple Heart.

He is survived by sons Richard, Kenneth Leo (Mary), Patrick, and daughter Carla Beth Geller. Carl is also survived by his grandchildren, Tiffany (Harold) Geller Reed, Mark Geller, Andrea Geller, Alicia Geller and Scott Geller, sister, Lucille (Ford) Burns, along with sisters in law, brothers in law and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by Betty, his wife of 63 years on December 29, 2007 and his parents.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Monday, April 6, 2009 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Pewamo, burial at St. Joseph Cemetery also in Pewamo with the Rev. Fr. Charlon Mason officiating. Visitation will be 2-4 and 7-9 p.m., Sunday at the St. Mary's Chapel in Westphalia and the chapel will be open 2-9 p.m. There will be a rosary service at 3 and a vigil at 8 p.m. Sympathy may be expressed in the form of contributions to the St. Joseph School in Pewamo.

Doug Eldridge

Doug P. Eldridge died April 2, 2009, at the age of 62. Doug was born to Paul and Pansy (Hearl) Eldridge on May 22, 1946 in St. Johns, MI. On November 21, 1989 Doug married Carol Koenigsknecht in St. Johns. Doug was an Essex Township Trustee and served on the Clinton Farm Service Agency county Committee, he also loved farming and drag racing.

Doug is survived by his wife, Carol, step-daughter, Pam Villarreal, step-sons, Bryon (Roxanne) Antes and Randy (Brenda) Antes; grandchildren, Dylan Antes, Briana (Kevin) Herzog, Erin (Mark) Higgins; great grandchildren, Lennon Herzog and Zoie Brandt. Doug is also survived by his sister, Sharon (Dean) Worrall and nieces and nephews, Cheryl Walton, Eugene Worrall, Stephanie (Gary) Doty and Kelly Worrall; great nieces and nephews, Cassandra, Derek, Corey, Michael, Christopher, Cody and Hayley and great great nieces and nephews, Colton, Christeanna and Clayton. Doug was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Monday, April 6 at the Osgood Funeral Home in St. Johns with Pastor Kathy Leydorf officiating. Burial will be at Mt. Rest Cemetery following the service. The family will receive friends 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. Saturday and Sunday. Sympathy may be expressed in the form of memorials to the American Diabetes Association or the American Heart Association.