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Carol E. Fultz, 69, of Boyne City died Friday, February 17, 2012, at Northern Michigan Regional Hospital in Petoskey.

  She was born on December 25, 1942, in Petoskey, the daughter of Harold and Lavina (Robinson) Billiau.
  On September 4, 1968, in Troy, Michigan, she married Teddy B. Fultz.
  Carol enjoyed crocheting, computers and volunteering at Challenge Mountain in Boyne City.
  She is survived by her husband, Teddy B. Fultz of Boyne City; six children, Susan (Alan) Kline of East Jordan, John Fultz of Petoskey, Julia Fultz of Boyne City, Linda (Mike) Helm of Polk City, Florida, Sharon Shouse of Polk City, Florida and Sandra (Donald) Jones of Brown City; numerous grandchildren; several great grandchildren; two sisters, Virginia (Harold) Jones of Prescott and Shirley Ruffato of Shelbyville, Tennessee; as well as several nieces and nephews.
  Carol was preceded in death by her parents; one daughter, Amy Fultz; one son, T. Justin Fultz; and one brother, Richard Billiau.

  Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, February 22, 2012, at 4:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.  Rev Dr. Jennifer Saad of the First Presbyterian Church in East Jordan will officiate.  A committal service will be held on Friday, February 24. 2012, at 1:00 P.M. at Christian Memorial Gardens in Rochester Hills. Online condolences may be sent to www.penzienfh.com.





Edward Bruce Gardner, 75 of East Jordan, died on Thursday, February 16, 2012, at Grandvue Medical Care Facility.

  He was born on August 20, 1936, in Boyne City, the son of William Jasper and Allice (Connor) Gardner. 
  Edward had worked at Webb-Pierce Manufacturing and Maltelski Lumber, both in Boyne City.
  He is survived by one daughter, Brenda Kaye (David) Czarnecki of East Jordan; two step-daughters, Mary Elizabeth Kessinger of East Jordan and Elsie (Clarence) Russell of Fulton, Kentucky; several grandchildren; several great grandchildren; two brothers, George (Pat) Gardner of Boyne City and Kenny (Ruth) Gardner of Alanson; one sister, Mary Jane Gardner; four half sisters, Joyce (Ronald) Soblerkey of Lake Odessa, Charlotte (Robert) Soblerkey of Charlotte, Edna (John) Fortune of Clarion, Aubrey (Ray) Moonaw of Whitmore Lake and Donna Russell of Lake Odessa.  He was preceded in death by one son, Bruce Edward Gardner on March 21, 1994; one brother, Larry Gardner, step mother, Anna Marie Sudsman Gardner and one half brother, Robert Sudsman.

  Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 21, 2012 at 2:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Rev. Bart Adams will officiate.  Interment will be in Sunset Hill Cemetery, East Jordan.
  The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 12:00 Noon until service time at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.







Andrew Thomas Priest, 11, of East Jordan died on February 2, 2012, at Charlevoix Area Hospital following a brief illness.

  He was born on February 8, 2000 in Toledo, Ohio.  Andrew was a fifth grade student at the East Jordan Public Schools.  He loved to read, work on his Ipod, watch TV, swing and ride in the family golf cart.   
  Andrew is survived by his parents, David & Phyllis Priest of East Jordan; grandparents, Ed & Joyce Petter of Ellsworth and Nancy Priest of Lake Leelanau; fourteen brothers & sisters, Donald “Don” Priest of Southgate, Eleanor “Ellie” (Tony) Doemer of Rochester Hills, Aaron Priest of Petoskey, Caleb Priest of Presque Isle, Maine, as well as Joseph Priest, Haley Priest, Hannah Priest, Sam Priest, Steve Priest, Maggie Priest, Jasmine Priest, Tori Priest, Tyler Priest and Betrys Priest, all of East Jordan.  He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Donald Priest and two brothers, BJ and Sean Priest.

  Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 4, 2012 at 11:00 A.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.  Rev. Bart Adams will officiate.  Interment will be held in the spring at Atwood Cemetery, Atwood, Michigan.
  The family will receive friends on Friday from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.  Memorials may be given to Muscular Dystrophy Association, 3300 East Sunrise Drive, Tucson, AZ 85718, 888-HELP-MDA, 888-(435-7632). Online condolences may be sent to www.penzienfh.com.




   Januice “Nona” Cesaro, 74, of East Jordan and formerly of Lakes of the North, died Thursday, December 29, 2011, at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City.

  She was born on September 18, 1937, in Pontiac, Michigan, the daughter of Allen and Iola (Osborne)Sweet.
  Januice married Eliseo V. Cesaro on June 18, 1955, in Orchard Lake, Michigan.
They were residents of Lakes of the North since 1981, before moving to East Jordan in January 2003. Prior to residing in Lakes of the North, they spent many years in Oakland County.
Nona was a co-owner and bookkeeper of JC Tire and Automotive for many years.
   She had attended the Lighthouse Missionary Church in East Jordan.
  Nona is survived by five children, Deborah (Scott) Behnke of White Lake, Jill (Steve) Piche of Elmira, Jeffrey (Pam) Cesaro of Charlevoix, Lisa (James) Nichols of East Jordan and James (Debbie) Cesaro of East Jordan; fifteen grandchildren; four great grandchildren; one sister, Nancy (Neil) Spillane of West Bloomfield; as well as many more adopted grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Eliseo V. Cesaro on June 3, 2003.

  A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 6, 2012, at 11:00 A.M. at the Lighthouse Missionary Church, 7824 Rogers Road, East Jordan, Michigan.  The family will receive friends on Friday from 10:00 A.M. until service time at the church.
   Memorial contributions may be directed to the Munson Foundation, in honor of A-3 Wing for Nursing Education, 210 Beaumont Place, Traverse City, Michigan 49684 or East Jordan Little League, P.O. Box 641, East Jordan, MI 49727. Arrangements by the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.

 

  Arnold E. “Sonny” Hart, 83, died Monday, December 12, 2011, at his home in Alba.

He was born on July 16, 1928, in Zeeland, Michigan, the son of Arnold A. and Beatrice (Sheaffer) Hart.
   On December 3, 1949, in East Jordan, he married Della Justine Bundy and raised five children. She preceded him in death on May 29, 1995. On November 11, 1995, in East Jordan, he married Lois Melling Bilyeu. She survives.
   Sonny served in the United States Army 82nd Airborne. He had worked 32 and a half years at the General Motors Grey Iron Plant in Saginaw and retired in 1977.
   He was a member of the I Celebrate Church in East Jordan and served the church as sunday school teacher, elder and deacon. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, carpentry, making wooden models, traveling, camping, computers and surfing the net.
   Sonny is survived by his wife, Lois Hart of Alba; four children, Linda (Terry) Baxter, June (Gary) Broom, Renee (Lloyd) Prevo and Arnold V. Hart, all of East Jordan; fourteen grandchildren; many many great grandchildren; many numerous great great grandchildren; one brother, Earl (Dolores) Hart of Saginaw; sister, Barb Gault of Mancelona; as well as many nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by one daughter, Barbara Rogers; one sister, Theda Lundy; and one brother, Delbert Hart.
   Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 17, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Pastor David Duncan of the I Celebrate Church in East Jordan will officiate. Interment will be in Mt. Bliss Cemetery in Jordan Township, Antrim County, Michigan.

  The family will receive friends on Friday from 10:00 A.M. until 12:00 noon and 3:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to the I Celebrate Church in East Jordan. Online condolences may be sent to www.penzienfh.com.

 

   Shirley Olson, 81, of East Jordan, Michigan died Sunday, December 11, 2011 at the Georgia House in Charlevoix.

   Shirley Joanne Nowland was born on March 25, 1930 in the boarding house on Main Street, East Jordan, to Roy and Alberta (LaClair) Nowland. Two years later her baby sister, Yvonne Noreen, was born. When the girls were 8 & 10 they moved to their parent’s life long home on Echo Street. Shirley attended school in East Jordan where she met her childhood Sweetheart, Ray Olson. After graduation from high school in East Jordan, his father, Elder Ole Olson, united them in marriage on August 8, 1948 at the RLDS Church on Jordan Street in East Jordan.
Ray worked at the local A&P Store and Shirley set type for the Charlevoix County Herald. They worked side by side through their many years together on many Real Estate endeavors and their local business, Har-Ray’s Shoes.
  Shirley is a beautiful, active, fun loving, caring lady. She loves birds and animals, music and dancing, working and playing in the great outdoors, camping, traveling, cooking, cross word puzzles, shoes and helping others. Most of all, she loves her husband and her family.
Her idea of a perfect day was a campfire at the “40” with family, friends, food and taking “hauler rides” through the woods.
  She is survived by her husband, Ray Olson of East Jordan; two daughters, Wava (Rich) Dietrich of East Jordan and Debbie (Glenn) Coon of Boyne City; two granddaughters, Darcie Dietrich-Buell of East Jordan and Jill (Randy) Guzniczak of Boyne City; three grandsons, Matthew (Brenda) Dietrich, Dennis (Kris) Moore of Boyne City and Brent Moore of Boyne City; three great granddaughters, Haylah Buell and Hilary Buell, both of East Jordan and Clara Dietrich of Eaton Rapids; great grandsons, Taylor Jepsen, Devvin Stackus, Tannis Guzniczak, Jasper Guzniczak, all of Boyne City; one sister, Yvonne Howe of New Port Richey, Florida; as well as many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and cousins.
Shirley’s family wishes to send their heartfelt thanks to all of her wonderful caregivers and friends at Georgia House, including Shawn and Russ McCraney, Jennifer, Ashley, Tonya, Samantha, Heather, Kayla, Michelle, Tammy and Amy. They made her final days so much easier with their thoughtfulness, concern and caring hands. Also, a special thanks to Hospice of Northwest Michigan and Dr. Anna Young, M.D.

   Funeral services will be held on Thursday, December 15, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Rev. Jennifer Saad will officiate. Interment will be in Sunset Hill Cemetery, East Jordan.
   The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Memorials may be given to Hospice of Northwest Michigan or the charity of donor’s choice. Online condolences may be sent to www.penzienfh.com.

  Bruce E. Gillespie, 79, of East Jordan and formerly of Burton, died Friday, December 9,
2011, at Grandvue Medical Care Facility in East Jordan.

  He was born on September 24, 1932 in Edinburg, Texas, the son of Foster and Evelyn (Dobbs) Gillespie. He graduated from Fenton High School, Michigan in 1948, and University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, as a Pharmacist.
Bruce served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. During that time, he met Connie M. Welch on Waikiki Beach, Hawaii and married her on June 29, 1957, in Springfield, Illinois.
   Bruce had worked as a pharmacist at the Reid Drug Store in Davison and the Cook Drug Store in Flint. He also owned and operated the ABC Special Secretarial Services as well as an Amway business.
   He was past president of the Michigan Pharmaceutical Association as well as the association’s newsletter. He also was the editor of the East Flint Lions Club Newsletter and the William A. Gillespie Family Newsletter.
   Bruce was a 50 year member of the First Presbyterian Church in Flint. He was an active member of the East Flint Lions Club and served as the Lions Club Chairman for the Michigan International Youth Exchange for 10 years. He touched the lives of over 50 exchange students from 14 different countries and many called him “Dad”. His favorite charities were the Lions Club Paws With A Cause and the Leader Dog programs. He was an active EMT for the Davison Area Ambulance Authority (DAAA) and the Goodrich Ambulance Service. He also enjoyed Pin Trading and writing poetry.
   Bruce is survived by his wife, Connie M. Gillespie of East Jordan and formerly of Burton; two daughters, Anne (Douglas) Phelps of East Jordan and Marsha (Lee) Bell of Lindenhurst, Illinois; two grandsons, Daniel Phelps of East Jordan and Kileean Bell of Lindenhurst; one great grandson, Roman Gerfen of San Diego, California; three brothers, William (Dorothy) Gillespie of Colorado, Roger (Bonnie) Gillespie of Waterford and Foster Gillespie of Billings, Missouri; two sisters, Edith Zimmerman of Fenton and Shirley Schrader of Davison; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was proceeded in death by his parents; brother, Howard Gillespie; granddaughter, Marleea Anne Gerfen.

   Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, December 14, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. at the First Presbyterian Church in Flint. Interment will be in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Springfield, Illinois.
   The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 10:00 A.M. until service time at the First Presbyterian Church in Flint. Memorial may be given to the Lions Club “Paws With A Cause” or Leader Dog programs. Arrangements by the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan, Michigan.

 

  Collin Lee Homan, 12, of East Jordan, died on Tuesday, December 6, 2011, at Charlevoix Area Hospital. 

   Collin was born in Charlevoix, on December 20, 1998, the son of Nicholas and Danielle (Sutherland) Homan. He was a 6th grade student at East Jordan Middle School. He loved to work on anything mechanical or electronic and could fix anything. He was currently repairing a treadmill and was also working on a go-cart. He enjoyed fishing and mushrooming. Collin completed the Hunter Safety class this year and on September 25th he bagged his first buck which was a three point.

   He is survived by his parents, Nick and Danielle Homan of East Jordan; his brother, Tyler Homan and sister, Hannah Homan, both of East Jordan; his grandparents, Randy and Debbie Homan of Mancelona; his great grandparents, Joseph Sr. and Bonnie Thompson of Mancelona; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

   Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 10, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan, Michigan. Interment will be in Trojanek Cemetery, Jordan Township, Antrim County, MI.
   The family will receive friends on Friday from 6:00 to 9:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Memorials may be given to the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Endocrinology Department, 230 Michigan Street, N.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Online condolences may be sent to www.penzienfh.com.

 

   Christopher Matthews Hock, 41, of East Jordan, MI and Cary, North Carolina, died Thursday, December 1, 2011, at UNC Hospitals, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

  He was born on September 16, 1970, in Rochester, Michigan, the son of Donald E. and Charlotte A. (Matthews) Hock. He graduated number one in his class at Reidsville High School, Reidsville, North Carolina in 1988. He received his Bachelor of Science degree, Summa Cum Laude in Computer Science and Mathematics from the St. Andrews Presbyterian College in Laurinburg, North Carolina in 1992.
  He married Shandra L. Sweet on June 15, 2001 in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. They made their homes in East Jordan, Michigan and Cary, North Carolina.
He worked as a computer consultant for CGI, Canada for nineteen years.
He enjoyed spending time with his family, travel, movies, computers, guitar, cars, boating, walking his dogs, Gracie and Piper.
  He is survived by his wife of nine ½ years, Shandra L. Sweet-Hock of East Jordan, Michigan and Cary, North Carolina; one son, Andrew S. Sweet of East Jordan, Michigan; his parents, Donald E. and Charlotte A. Hock of Reidsville, North Carolina; his grandmother, Lil Hock of Cape Coral, Florida; one sister, Andrea (Alex) Taylor of Sanford, North Carolina; a special uncle, Edward Matthews of Reidsville, North Carolina; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Sanford H. and Paula M. Sweet of East Jordan, Michigan; brother-in-law, Brent (Rachelle) Sweet of Lake Odessa, Michigan; one sister-in-law, Robin (Tom) Peters of East Jordan, Michigan; brother-in-law, Sanford L. (Amanda) Sweet of Williamsburg, Michigan; cousin, Meredith A. (Drew) Franklin, and 12 neices and nephews: Kyle, Shalea, Shaina, Valerie, Alainna, Tim, Hayden, Aeden, Tanner, Adam, Landon, and Cooper.
  A celebration of Chris' life was held on Sunday, December 4, 2011 at Genesis Methodist Church in, Cary, North Carolina, at 2:00 p.m. Pastor Craig Ham officiated.

  Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 9, 2011, at 2:00 p.m. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan, Michigan. Rev. James L. Jordan and Rev. Bart Adams of the Lighthouse Missionary Church will officiate. Interment will follow in Rockery Cemetery, Jordan Township, Antrim County, Michigan.
  Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 8, 2011, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Memorial donations may be given to the American Cancer Society online at https://www.cancer.org/involved/donate/donateonlinenow/index or to St. Andrew University online at https://www.sapc.edu/giving/ (Please indicate in the comments box that the donation is in memory of Chris Hock) or by mail to: St. Andrews University, 1700 Dogwood Mile, Laurinburg, NC 28352, Phone: (910) 277-5664, Fax: (910) 277-5663 (Please make out the check to St. Andrews University and indicate in your check memo line that the check is in memory of Chris Hock.)


 

  Ronald G. Klooster, 68, of East Jordan went to be with his Lord on Tuesday, November 29, 2011.

   He was born on March 1, 1943 in East Jordan, the son of George and Helen (Springstead) Klooster. He grew up on a 120-acre farm near East Jordan and graduated from East Jordan High School in 1961.
Ron delivered fuel oil for the East Jordan Co-op for many years. He also farmed and managed the East Jordan Co-op Convenience Store. Recently, Ron served as a chaplain at Grandvue Medical Care Facility in East Jordan.
   He had served as East Jordan City Commissioner and Mayor. He also served the East Jordan area with his ministry and management of the Open Door Christian Coffee House.
Ron enjoyed riding his Honda “Silver Wing” motorcycle and during Christmas time, playing “Old Man Winter”. Ron loved food, fellowship and singing gospel. He enjoyed his Grandvue fellowship through the Senior Companion Program. He was a devoted father, devoted friend and a devoted member of the East Jordan United Methodist Church.
   He is survived by two daughters, Heather (Randy) Burks and Melissa Klooster, both of East Jordan; six grandchildren, Nicole Dougherty, Alexis Dougherty, Trey Dougherty, Trevor Dougherty, Donvee Burks and Miranda Burks, all of East Jordan; three sisters, Marilyn Pearce of Fostoria, Ohio, Kay Richards of Lake City and Carol (Ray) Schneider of Charlotte; and his significant other, Dorothy M. Lehman of Mancelona.

   A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 3, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. at the Lighthouse Missionary Church with Pastor Rap Posnik of The East Jordan United Methodist Church officiating. Memorials may be given to East Jordan United Methodist Church, for chaplain development, P.O. Box 878, East Jordan, MI 49727. The family was served by the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.

   Evelyn J. Ballard, 82, of Elmira, died Monday, November 28, 2011, at Bortz Health Care Facility in Petoskey.

  Evelyn was born on June 7, 1929, in Star Township, Antrim County, the daughter of Harold Fayette and Lillian Aldean (Emerson) Olds. On February 6, 1949, at her home in Star Township, she married Charles Albert Ballard. He preceded her in death on December 7, 1971.
   She started work at Mount Clemens Metal Products in East Jordan on March 8, 1965 as a line worker and press operator. She retired in 1989 from Wickes Mechanical Company.
   Evelyn is survived by her three sons, Russell W. Ballard of East Jordan, Albert E. Ballard of Phoenix, AZ and Robert D. (Cindy) Ballard of East Jordan; her three daughters, Coralyn (Sheldon) Crouch of Elmira, Valma R. (Kenneth) Hoover of Petoskey and Carol J. (Richard) Lord of East Jordan; fifteen grandchildren; 29 great grandchildren; two brothers, Jack E. (Roberta) Olds of Minnesota and Roger J. (Nellene) Olds of Charlevoix; one sister, Emily J. (Norman) Rotenberg of Sanford, Florida; two brothers-in-law, William DeWitt of Grand Ledge and William Withers of Flint; one sister-in-law, Linda Olds of Mancelona, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers, Walter Olds, T.J. Olds, Harold Ardell Olds and Robert D. Olds; three sisters, Betty Lou Withers, Mary Ann Olds and Violet J. DeWitt; one granddaughter, Jessica Ballard Robtoy; and one niece, Marjorie Petit.

   Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 2, 2011, at 1:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Rev. James L. Jordan of the Lighthouse Missionary Church in East Jordan will officiate. Interment will be in Star Township Cemetery, Alba, Michigan.

   The family will receive friends on Friday from 10:00 A.M. to service time at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Online condolences may be sent to www.penzienfh.com.

Donald J. Nowka, 83, died Friday, November 18, 2011, at his home in Jordan Township, Antrim County, in the presence of his family.

   He was born on December 23, 1927, in Dearborn, the son of Walter and Elvira (Anderson) Nowka.
   He graduated in 1945, from Fordson High School in Dearborn. He served in the United States Marine Corp during World War II as an aviation mechanic in the Pacific Theater including Midway Island.
   He married Constance “Connie” LaPierre on April 2, 1971, in Garden City, Michigan.
Don was active in Junior Achievement. He worked with his father for Walter Nowka and Son Landscaping, were they created the first 3D archery course. Don worked as the superintendant of maintenance at the Tireman Plant in Detroit for Burroughs; Supervisor of skilled trades at the truck plant in Wayne for the Ford Motor Company; the owner administrator for the Wishing Well Manor Nursing Home in Northville and Whispering Willow Nursing Home in Canton.
He moved to East Jordan in April of 1988. He never stopped working and was a consummate putzer.
Don enjoyed hunting, shooting fire arms and collecting antique cars.
   He is survived by his wife, Constance “Connie” Nowka of East Jordan; children, James and Cathy Nowka; Michelle and Frank Filardo and Brian and Donna Nowka; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; and a father figure for many others. He is preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Helen Pippit.

   Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 26, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. A military service will following at Lakeside Cemetery in South Arm Township.
   The family will receive friends on Friday from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, in East Jordan. Memorials may be given to the Wounded Warriors Project, www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

 

 Charles Edward Saxton peacefully went to be with the Lord on Thursday, October 13, 2011.

  He was born in East Jordan to Harry and Mary Saxton, valedictorian of his class, served in WWII in Germany, attended Alma College, majoring in education, lettered in baseball, basketball, and football, pitching for semi-pro teams in Minnesota and Canada. In 1977, he was inducted into the Alma College Hall of Fame along with Jim Northrup. After graduation, he taught health and gym for 27 years at Garden City, Warren Fitzgerald and Warren Lincoln, coached football and refereed basketball for many years. He enjoyed retirement, spending his time between his cottage that he built on Lake Charlevoix, wintered in McAllen, Texas and Orange Beach, Alabama. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, furniture refinishing and following the Detroit Tigers.
   Charles was a hardworking, honest man who loved life, valued friendships and touched many who are mourning his loss.
   The family wishes to thank DaVita Dialysis Centers in Petoskey and Gulf Shores for taking care of him for 4 years.
   Survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Nellie (Wilson) Saxton, his brother, Bob (Betty) of Laingsburg, his children, Charnell (Lynn Downing) of Fowlerville, Jane (Dan Hoch) of West Milford, New Jersey, Charles of East Jordan, Scott (Michele) of Farmington and Jill of Brighton, 11 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, one brother-in-law, Leland Wilson, and three sisters-in-law, Shirley Saxton, Elaine Saxton, and Gladys Dood. Preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, Gayle, Richard, William, and sister, Virginia Goodman.
   Funeral service at St. Joseph Catholic Church, East Jordan, on Saturday, October 22, 2011, at 10:00 a.m.
   Visitation at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc., East Jordan, Friday 2:00-5:00 and 6:00-9:00 p.m. with a wake service at 7:00 p.m.
   Memorials, in lieu of flowers, to St. Joseph Catholic Church or to Disabled American Veterans.

Honorine B. Shepley, 98, of East Jordan died Monday, October 17, 2011, at her son's home in Pinckney.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, October 22, 2011 at 1:00 P.M. at Sunset Hill Cemetery in East Jordan, MI.
The family will receive friends on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.

Ruth H. Young , 81, died on Monday, October 17, 2011, at Grandvue Medical Care Facility in East Jordan, MI.

She was born on December 19, 1929, in Alba, MI, the daughter of Oscar and Myrtle (Hedgers) Bowen. She graduated from East Jordan High School in 1949. On September 22, 1949, she married Herschel “Hersh” C. Young in Mt. Morris, MI. He died on August 15, 1997. She enjoyed sewing, painting, and gardening. Ruth was instrumental in the development of the fencing and the planting of trees at Star Township Cemetery in Alba.
She is survived by her son, Michael (Sherrie) Young of Grand Rapids; daughter, Peggy (Ron) VanSteeland of Grand Rapids; granddaughters,
Rachael (Fred) Boyer and Michelle (Tom) Uminn, both of Grand Rapids; ten great grandchildren; brother, Arthur “Vern” (Betty) Bowen of Central Lake; and sisters, Beatrice Putnam of North Fort Myers, Florida, and Lavina (Russell) Tober of East Jordan. She was preceded in death by brothers, James Bowen and Oscar Stably; and a sister, Evelyn Putman.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday, October 19, 2011 from 12:00 noon until 1:30 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, East Jordan. A private interment will be at Star Township Cemetery, Alba. Memorial contributions may be given to the American Cancer Society.







  Sharon Ann Sutherland, 70, of East Jordan died Sunday, September 25, 2011, at Northern Michigan Regional Hospital in Petoskey.
She was born on March 3, 1941 in Pontiac, Michigan where she grew up. She married Richard Sutherland on July 9, 1960 in Waterford. They moved to East Jordan in 1971.
   Sharon loved to embroider, work puzzles and read, but she especially loved her family.
She is survived by one son, Richard (Wendy) Sutherland, Jr.; four daughters, Sherry (Don) Bergmann, Diane (Chris) Patton, Lori (Rick) Enszer and Danielle (Nick) Homan; 22 grandchildren; 27 great grandchildren; and one brother, Donald (Jean) Gritzinger. She was preceded in death by her husband Richard on January 5, 2003, her parents and one sister, Arlene Ball.
  The funeral will be held on Wednesday, September 28, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.  Rev. Jeff Ellis of the Walloon Lake Community Church will officiate. Interment will follow in Trojanek Cemetery, Jordan Township, Antrim County, MI.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Memorials may be given to Sutherland Family. Online condolences may be sent to www.penzienfh.com.












   Harry Edward Watson, 88, of East Jordan died Thursday, August 25, 2011 at Grandvue Medical Care Facility in East Jordan.
   He was born on March 22, 1923 in Hayes Township, Michigan. He grew up in East Jordan and graduated from East Jordan High School in 1941. He received a Mortuary Science Degree from Wayne State University, Bachelor of Science from Michigan State University. He also received a degree from the School of Engineering in Milwaukee and also attended the University of Iowa.
   Harry served in the United States Navy during World War II from 1942 to 1944. He was trained as a pilot and then transferred to submarines. He met Phoebe Jane Van Allsburg while she was teaching in East Jordan and he was on convalescent leave from the Navy. On October 5, 1944, when Harry was on a later leave, they were married. In 1946, after the end of the war, Harry and Phoebe together built the house that they called home for the rest of their married lives.
   He was a Funeral Director, a Licensed Builder and a Master Plumber & Electrician. He owned and operated the Watson Funeral Home and Watson Construction, Inc. He started building homes in 1949. As a builder, he has built homes, motels, hotels, schools and restaurants. He never formally retired.
He was a member and Past President of the East Jordan Rotary Club. He served as a board member of the National Home Builders Association, the former Republic Bank, Jordan Valley District Library and Grandvue Medical Care Facility. He also served on East Jordan City Council and as the Mayor East Jordan. Harry was a faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church in East Jordan. The things that were important to Harry were family, church and community.
   He loved flying, woodworking, cabinet making, fishing and hunting.
  He is survived by his three children, Robert E. Watson, his wife, Gail B., and their children, Jessica and Alexandra, of Mt. Airy, Maryland; Thomas F. Watson, his wife, Anne D., and their children, Kathleen (Ryan) Jackson, Andrew and Peter, of Charlotte; and Margaret Watson of Kalamazoo. Harry was preceded in death by his mother and father, Robert “Guy” and Helen Pearl (Baker) Watson as well as his beloved wife, Phoebe Jane Watson, who died on May 9, 2009.
  Funeral services will be held on Monday August 29, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Rev. Jennifer Saad of the First Presbyterian Church will officiate. Interment will be in Sunset Hill Cemetery in East Jordan.
   The family will receive friends on Saturday 6:00 to 8:00 P.M., Sunday 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Memorials may be given to The First Presbyterian Church of East Jordan.



  Allen L. Freeman, 83, of East Jordan died Wednesday, August 24, 2011 at Charlevoix Area Hospital.
  He was born on September 28, 1927, in Mecosta County, Michigan, the son of Alvin and Mary (Delong) Freeman. On July 9, 1964, he married Beatrice I. Schornack in Westland, Michigan. He had worked for the Coca-Cola Bottling Company and Brauns Engineering, both in Detroit. They resided in the Westland area until moving to East Jordan in 1988. She preceded him in death on January 4, 1996. Allen was an avid fan of Nascar and Tiger Baseball.
   He is survived by one daughter, Tina (Brian) Simons of East Jordan; five grandchildren, Mandy, Niki, Carrie, Kayla and Dawn; three great grandchildren, Payton, Colton and Annabella; one brother, Thomas (Jenny) Freeman of Lakeland, Florida; two sisters, Juanita Hildreth of Westland and Noami Reid of Whitmore Lake; as well as several nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, D.J., Richard and Ralph Freeman; and one sister, Loretta L. Flora.
  Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 27, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Rev. James L. Jordan of the Lighthouse Missionary Church will officiate.
  The family will receive friends on Saturday from 10:00 A.M. until service time at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to Freeman Family. Online condolences may be sent to www.penzienfh.com.


Guy “Spike” Russell, 93, died Monday, August 22, 2011 at his home in East Jordan. No services are scheduled. Burial was in Sunset Hill Cemetery, East Jordan. The family was serviced by the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.


Margaret L. Schaper, 73, of East Jordan died Friday, August 12, 2011 at Grandvue Medical Care Facility in East Jordan.
  No services will be scheduled at this time.

   Marcia L. Crill, 61, of East Jordan and formerly of Beaverton died August 6, 2011, at Charlevoix Area Hospital in Charlevoix.
  She was born on October 16, 1949, in Northville, the daughter of Kenneth Lloyd and Helen Jean (Sandford) Holcomb.
  Marcia was a member of the Harvest Barn Word of Life Church in East Jordan. She enjoyed cha-ching-ing.
  She is survived by three daughters, Susan (Bob) Moreau of East Jordan, Shannon (Josh) LaLonde of Midland and Melissa (Neil Bruner) Havier of Loomis-Clare; ten grandchildren; one great grandchild; and two sisters, Barbara (Clint) Holt of Romulus and Patricia (Bill) Tank of Westland. She was preceded in death by two sons, Jeremy Daniel Crill on August 28, 1984 and Jamie Franklin Havier on October 26, 2006; one daughter, Mary Jean Havier on July 16, 1967; and one brother, Ernest Herbert Holcomb on December of 1984.
  A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 20, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. at the Harvest Barn Word of Life Church in East Jordan. Pastor Kimon Criner will officiate. In leu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Crill Family, c/o Susan Moreau, P.O. Box 1239, East Jordan, MI 49727. Arrangements were handled by the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.



  Theda M. Lundy, 74, of East Jordan passed away Monday, August 1, 2011 at her home.
   She was born on September 25, 1936 in Gaylord, the daughter of Arnold and Beatrice (Sheaffer) Hart. She grew up in East Jordan and graduated from East Jordan High School.
  On April 14, 1953 in East Jordan, she married Richard “Pete” Lundy where they raised their family. He preceded her in death on December 19, 1994.
Theda was a homemaker who enjoyed knitting, crocheting, cooking, camping, puzzles and playing board games. She was an avid John Wayne fan. Most of all in life, she loved to spoil her grandchildren.
  She is survived by her children, Rick & Denise Lundy, Archie & Debra Lundy, Darrell & Cathy Lundy, Wanda & Ken Stutzman, Norma & Red Hardy and Bruce Lundy, all of East Jordan; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; brothers, Arnold “Sonny” & Lois Hart of Alba and Earl & Dolores Hart of Saginaw; sister, Barb Gault of Mancelona; and several nieces and nephews. Theda was also preceded in death by her parents, one brother, Delbert Hart and one granddaughter, Janice Lundy.
  Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 6, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Rev. James L. Jordan of the Lighthouse Missionary Church in East Jordan will officiate. Burial will follow at Sunset Hill Cemetery, East Jordan.
  The family will receive friends on Friday from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc, in East Jordan. Memorials may be given to the Lundy family. Online condolences may be made at www.penzienfh.com.





  William Sanderson,  88, of East Jordan died Monday, July 25, 2011 at Grandvue Medical Care Facility in East Jordan. Arrangements are pending at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.







   Joseph J. Haney, Sr., 81, died Friday, July 22, 2011, on his family’s homestead in Jordan Township, Antrim County, Michigan where he was born.
   He was born on November 3, 1929, the son of Frank and Emily (Novak) Haney. He grew up on the family homestead and went to school in the schoolhouse across the street from St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church. He served in the United States Army Reserve. On June 22, 1957, at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church in Jordan Township, he married Judy Dexter. They raised five children on the farm.
Joseph farmed his whole life while also working at the East Jordan Iron Works for a 32 year period retiring from the foundry in 1995.
   He was an active member, past council member, usher and maintenance man for St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church, the sexton of St. John Nepomucene Pioneer Cemetery, a Jordan Township elected official for the last 40 years and Jordan Township supervisor for the past 20 years.
   Survived by his wife, Judy Haney of East Jordan; five children, Joseph J. (Glenna) Haney, Jr. of East Jordan, Betty (Brian) Murphy of Crystal River, Florida, Susan (Clinton) Collins of Inverness, Florida, Patricia (Tom) Sapak of Saginaw and Paul (Kallie) Haney of East Jordan; twelve grandchildren; one great grandchild due in September; and two sisters, Lucy Lercel and Helen (Ken) Richards both of East Jordan.
   Funeral mass on Wednesday, July 27, 2011, at 4:00 P.M. at St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church. Rev. Fr. Duane Wachowiak will officiate with interment following in St. John Nepomucene Pioneer Cemetery.
   Visitation will be Tuesday from 2:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan with a vigil service at 7:00 P.M. Memorials may be given to St. John Nepomucene Catholic Church.



  Mary Ann Warden, 70, of East Jordan died Sunday, June 26, 2011, at Hiland Cottage in Petoskey.
  She was born on October 20, 1940 in Dennison, Ohio, the daughter of Richard and Catherine (Maher) Hoffman.
  Mary Ann enjoyed trips to the casino, knitting, crocheting, anything Irish and spending time with her family.
  She is survived by twin sons, Jerry Warden of Woodbridge, Virginia and Rick (Karen) Warden of Gaylord, son, Tim Warden of Boyne City and one daughter , Becky (Mark) Rowbotham of East Jordan; seven grandchildren, Debbie, Connor, Christian, Katie, Angie, Caitlin and Brayden; one brother, Tim (Myra) Hoffman of East Jordan; and her life long best friend, Doris Udell of Westland. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Dick Hoffman.
   A funeral mass will be held on Thursday, June 30, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in East Jordan.
The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan with a Rosary at 7:00 P.M. Memorials may be given to Hiland Cottage, One Hiland Drive, Petoskey, MI 49770. Online condolences may be sent to www.penzienfh.com.





   Daniel Russell Anthony, 49, of Boyne Falls, left his family and friends unexpectedly on Saturday, June 18, 2011, at Otsego Memorial Hospital in Gaylord.
   He was born on December 6, 1961 in Zeeland, Michigan, the son of Daniel R., Sr. and Doris M. (Antoine) Anthony. On June 23, 2007 in Elmira, he married Virginia “Jenny” Patton. He worked as a landscaper for Golden Eye Farms in Charlevoix.
   He was very proud to be a member of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. Dan enjoyed spending time with his family, fishing, hunting, mud bogging, watching scary movies and spending time outdoors. He will be dearly missed by many.
   Dan is survived by his wife, Jenny; two daughters, Heather and Haylee; one son, Jason; four grandchildren, Jalen, Kyannah, Brooklyn and Janson Lee; one sister, Kathrine Devers; one brother, Stanley Anthony; and many close friends that he considered family. Dan was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Pete, Paul and John.
   Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, June 22, 2011, at 11:00 A.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Rev. Jamie Woodall of the Genesis Church in Boyne City will officiate with interment following at St. Joseph Calvary Cemetery in East Jordan.
   The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 10:00 A.M. until service time at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Anthony Family, P.O. Box 422, Boyne Falls, MI 49713.












  
  Jesse Alan James “Icavarg” Sulkowski, 22, of Standish, beloved father, son, grandson, brother and friend died Friday, May 6, 2011 at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City.
   He was born on January 3, 1989 in Petoskey, Michigan, the son of Ernest William Alex Sulkowski and Beatrice Marie Seder.
   He enjoyed drawing and writing poetry, walking, playing video games and reading about wolves and dragons. He was a member of the Renaissance Fair Association and The Brotherhood of the Fish, where he was known as “Goldfish”.
   He is survived by one son, Donovan Reineke of Bay City; his mother, Beatrice Marie (Martin) Lopez of Au Gres; his father, Ernest W.A. Sulkowski, Sr. of East Jordan; grandmother, Linda (Terry) Baxter of East Jordan; grandfather, Daryl (Linda) Seder of Whittemore; two brothers, Billy (Nichole) Seder and Alex (Jana) Sulkowski, Jr. both of Boyne Falls; two sisters, Odessa (Matt) Cavaness and Kiesha (Adam) Fuller both of East Jordan; and five nieces, Alexis Sulkowski, Alana Sulkowski, Serenity Fuller, Hailey Fuller and Amee Cavaness.
   Graveside services will be held on Saturday, May 14, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. at Mt. Bliss Cemetery in Jordan Township, Antrim County, MI. Rev. James L. Jordan of the Lighthouse Missionary Church in East Jordan will officiate.
   The family will receive friends on Friday from 1:00 to 3:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Memorials may be given to the Sulkowski Family. Online condolences may be sent to www.penzienfh.com.




   Verna Boyer Hart Spires, 79, of Mancelona died Sunday, May 1, 2011, at Bortz Health Care of Petoskey.
   She was born on August 1, 1931, in Deer Lake, Michigan the daughter of Peter and Hazel (Winagle) Boyer. She graduated from East Jordan High School in 1949.
   On October 22, 1949 in East Jordan, she married Delbert Lee Hart. They raised six children in East Jordan and then moved to Mancelona in 1986. Delbert preceded her in death on October 16, 1987.
   On July 5, 1988 in East Jordan, she married Theodore Spires of Mancelona.
   Verna was a member of the V.F.W. Auxiliary Post #7580 in East Jordan and the Moose Lodge in Mancelona. She enjoyed puzzles and camping.
She is survived by husband Theodore A. Spires of Mancelona; Erma (Arza) Smith of East Jordan, Sandra Hart of Boyne City, Delbert W. (Gloria Ann) Hart of Arizona, Thomas E. (Shirley) Hart, Victor J. (Lois) Hart of Boyne Falls and Jeffery L. Hart of East Jordan; three step children; nineteen grandchildren; twenty two great grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews. She was also preceded in death by twelve brothers and sisters.
   Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, May 4, 2011, at 11:00 A.M. at the Lighthouse Missionary Church in East Jordan. Rev. Bart Adams will officiate with interment following at Sunset Hill Cemetery, East Jordan.
   The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Memorials may be given to American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718. Online condolences may be sent to www.penzienfh.com.




Judy Ann Hess DeWitt, 66, died Wednesday, April 20, 2011, at her home in East Jordan.
  She was born on December 28, 1944, in Charlevoix, the daughter of John and Caroline Alberta (Sharrow) Hess.
  She was a homemaker most of her life. Judy was a poet, a published writer and published composer. She also enjoyed drawing, baking and was a serious collector.
  Judy is survived by two sons, Lonnie “Gunner” (Mary) Hess of Ishpeming and Richard (Sheri) Barkley of Hale; ten grandchildren; two brothers, Joseph and Robert Dennis, both of South Carolina; two sisters, Joyce Dennis of South Carolina and Linda (Franklin) Potter of East Jordan. She was preceded in death by her husband, Theodore “Ted” Howard DeWitt in 1989.
   Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 30, 2011, at 2:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Rev. Rap Posnik of the East Jordan United Methodist Church will officiate with interment following at White Chapel Memorial Cemetery in Troy.
The family will receive friends on Saturday from 12:00 noon until service time at the funeral home.



Clara S. Prevo, 69, of East Jordan died Wednesday, April 13, 2011 at Charlevoix Area Hospital.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 16, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. at the Lighthouse Missionary Church in East Jordan.
The family will received friends on Friday from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.


  Patricia Ann Beaverson, 69, of East Jordan died Wednesday, April 13, 2011 at Hiland Cottage in Petoskey.
A memorial mass will be on Saturday, April 16, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in East Jordan.

Frank J. Strehl, 91, of East Jordan died Monday, April 4, 2011 at Independent Village in Petoskey.
He was born on February 1, 1920 in Mancelona, the son of Edward J. and Anna (Brown) Strehl. He moved to East Jordan as an infant with his parents. He graduated from East Jordan High School in 1939. He then served in the United State Army in the 4th Infantry Division who landed at Normandy on D-Day. On November 30, 1944, he stepped on a landmine. In February of 1945, during his convalescence at Percy Jones Army Hospital in Battle Creek, he met the love of his life, Betty Jo Clinard of Jackson. They were married October 20, 1945, at the Catholic Church rectory in Jackson. They have lived in East Jordan since 1948.
Frank was a watchmaker and jeweler. He had a little shop within the old Hites Drug Store in East Jordan which is now known as Busy Bridge Antiques.
Frank was the recipient of the Purple Heart with two oak clusters, losing both legs serving our country in World War II. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, American Legion Rebec-Hosler-Sweet Post #227 and V.F.W. Post #7580, all in East Jordan. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, snowmobiling and golfing
He is survived by his wife, Betty Jo Strehl of Petoskey; one sister, Margaret (Thomas) Turcott of Petoskey; ten nieces and nephews, Riley J. Turcott of Petoskey, Michael (Annie) Turcott of Petoskey, Casey (Terri) Turcott of Kentucky, Patricia (Jack) McClees of Petoskey, Laura (Scott) Batchelor of Harbor Springs, Kathleen (Perry) Lenhart of Bend, Oregon, Jane (Terry) Blaylock of Bend, Oregon, Mary Hayes of Petoskey, Daniel (Glo) Turcott of Boyne City and Linda (Don) Bigger of Comstock Park; several great nieces and nephews; and several great great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by an infant brother, Teddy Strehl; a sister, Marian Sherman; and two nieces, Christine Williams and Mary Lou Turcott.
   Mass will be held on Friday, April 15, 2011 at 10:00 A.M. at St. Joseph Catholic Church in East Jordan. Rev. Fr. James Gardner will officiate.
The family will received friend on Thursday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. with a Rosary service to be held at 6:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.
Memorials may be directed to the Frank J. and Betty J. Strehl Family Fund, c/o Charlevoix County Community Foundation, 507 Water Street, P.O. Box 718, East Jordan, MI 49727 or a charity of your choice.





   Elena Marie Thomas died on Monday, April 4, 2011 in her 101st year. She was born in Eveline Township on March 8, 1910. The daughter of Peter Nasson and Anna Murphy, she was a strong and resilient personality, who lived through the Great Depression, World War II, raised three children and managed to get her L.P.N. at the age of 50 at the head of her class. She married Harold Lyle Thomas, who preceded her in death by three years. They were childhood sweethearts and were married for more than 81 years.
   A gifted homemaker, she baked bread, pies and rolls on a farm woodstove that were celebrated for three generations. Elena was an avid reader of newspapers, biographies and history, being particularly interested in the lives of pioneer women. (Her maternal grandmother homesteaded the “Homestead Farm” south of East Jordan.) Her mother, Anna Murphy was a teacher and implanted the importance of education to her. She taught her children and grandchildren the value of work and education, and the appreciation of nature. She was especially fond of birds.
   As a young girl she remembered seeing her future mother-in-law coming up the long drive to the farmhouse in a buggy to convince Elena’s parents to support woman’s suffrage. She was a lifelong F.D.R. Democrat and voted in every election.
   During WWII she supported her three children by working at AC Spark Plug in Flint, Michigan while her husband, Harold was a prisoner of war. After the war, Harold and Elena returned to their roots and bought their farm near Eveline Orchards. They were very conscientious farmers and practiced the green-farming principles of the time. After retiring from farming, Elena and Harold allowed the land to become a natural wild life habitat.
   Elena is survived by -- children: Marge (Howard) Best of East Jordan, Marie Van Deventer of Gladwin, and Robert (Rosalind) Thomas of Ventura, CA. There are eleven grandchildren: John (Sheila) Best of Butte,MT, Mary (Joe) Dixon of Comfort, TX , Jeanne Heath of East Jordan, Tom (Sue) Van Deventer of Petoskey, Bob (Debbie) Van Deventer of Saginaw, Jim (Karen) Van Deventer of Milford, Dave (Emily) Van Deventer of Norwood, NC, Dean (Leslie) Thomas of San Luis Obispo, CA, Glen (Dena) Thomas of Loomis, CA, Noah (Kelly) Thomas of Ventura, CA and Leif (Irene) Thomas of Stanford, CA. There are also twenty two great grandchildren and four great, great, grand child.
   The viewing will be held at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan MI on Sunday, April 10, 2011 from 2:00 to 4:00 & 5:00 to 7:00 P.M.
   The funeral will occur at the East Jordan United Methodist Church on Monday, April 11, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. Pastor Rap Posnick will be officiating the service.
  Elena’s wishes in lieu of flowers is to give to UMCOR of the United Methodist Church or the Heifer Project Internationally, each to help feed the hungry – meaningful to her after her husband’s experience with starvation as a prisoner of war in Germany during World War Two.


  Shirley A. Knop, 60, of Petoskey died Tuesday, March 29, 2011 at her son’s home in East Jordan.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, April 1, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.
The family will receive friends on Thursday from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.



  Alice E. Reid, 84, of East Jordan died Sunday, March 20, 2011, at Grandvue Medical Care Facility.
   Born on January 5, 1927 in East Jordan, the daughter of Samuel Russell and Carrie May (Bolser) McClure. She grew up in East Jordan and graduated from East Jordan High School in 1945.
   On July 21, 1947, she married Verne Reid in East Jordan. The couple resided in Owosso until 1953, when they returned to East Jordan. Verne preceded her in death on April 27, 1987.
   She enjoyed raising her family, gardening, crocheting, cooking and watching Oral Roberts on TV.
   Survived by one daughter, Elinor Irish; five sons, Samuel (Gail) Reid, Glen (Jean Anne) Reid, Thomas (Billie) Reid, William (Debra) Reid and Tim (Kathy) Reid; grandchildren, Sarah Irish, Katie Irish, Laurie (Aaron) Duvernay, Michael (Lisa) Reid, Meegan Reid, Glen (Allyson) Reid, Jr., Jessica Vallance, Brandon Vallance, Thomas (Michelle) Reid, Jr., Angela Reid, Rob (Toni) Reid, Amanda (Mike) Peterson, Jonathan Reid, Ashley (R.J.) Green, Joshua Reid, William Spencer Reid and Christopher Reid; great grandchildren, Emma Duvernay, Hannah Duvernay, Madalyn Reid, Keelin Reid, Thomas Reid, III, Benjamin Reid, Josh Force, Tyler Force, Kortenay Force, Caitlyn Force, Alainna Sarasin, Kya Sarasin, Matthew Reid, Bailey Massey, Madi Peterson, Lauren Peterson, Tanner Peterson, Alexis Green, Maci Green and Payton Green; sisters, Belvia Tornga, Shelby Ziegler Claus and Jean (Robert) Shaw: and several nieces and nephews. Also preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Carrie May Dougherty.
   Funeral services Wednesday, March 23, 2011, at 11:00 A.M. at the Lighthouse Missionary Church in East Jordan.
   Visitation Tuesday 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Memorials to Grandvue Medical Care Facility, for the Horizonvue Program, 1728 South Peninsula Road, East Jordan, MI 49727. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.penzienfh.com.


  Marie C. Rebec, 92, died Thursday, March 10, 2011, at Grandvue Medical Care Facility in East Jordan.
   Marie was born on May 25, 1918, in Jordan Township, Antrim County, the daughter of Joseph T. and Margaret (Divis) Chanda. She attended the "Little Red School House" across the street from her home and then graduated from East Jordan High School in 1937.
   She belonged to St. Joseph's Altar Society and the VFW. After she retired, she went on trips with other senior citizens, knitted afghans and sewed quilts for all of her children and grandchildren. Marie enjoyed "helping out". She loved flowers, cooking, reading her newspapers and watching romance movies. Throughout her life, she relied on her faith to keep her grounded and to get her through difficult times.
   Marie is survived by her children, Rebecca Rebec of Bloomfield Hills, Rudolph "Rudy" Rebec of East Jordan, Robert (Sandy) Rebec of Sunfield, Dianne (Jon) Mussman of Anderson, South Carolina, and Debbie (Steve) Bartlett of East Jordan; 12 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; one brother, William Chanda of Owosso; as well as several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, George in 1988, her son, David Rebec in 1979, and two brothers, James and Joseph Chanda.
   A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, March 14, 2011, at 10:00 A.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes in East Jordan. Rev. Fr. James Gardiner will officiate with interment following at St. Joseph Calvary Cemetery, East Jordan, MI.
   The family will receive friends on Sunday from 4:00 to 7:30 P.M. at the funeral home. A rosary will be held at 7:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Grandvue Medical Care Facility, 1728 S. Peninsula Rd., East Jordan, MI. 49727. Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.penzienfh.com.


   William H. Midgett, 73, of East Jordan, died Wednesday, March 9, 2011, at Charlevoix Area Hospital.
   Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, March 15, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Rev. James L. Jordan of the Lighthouse Missionary Church in East Jordan will officiate. Burial will be in Dunsmore Cemetery in Echo Township, Antrim County, MI.
   The family will receive friends on Monday from 3:00 to 5:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.penzienfh.com.



  Jerry L. Patton, 44, of Costa Mesa, California and formerly of East Jordan, died Wednesday, March 2, 2011 at Hoag Hospital in Newport Beach, California.
   He was born on April 30, 1966, in Charlevoix, Michigan the son of George and Norma (Gee) Patton. He grew up in East Jordan and graduated from East Jordan High School in 1984. He worked five years at Allied Signal in Boyne City, now known as Honeywell International, Inc. He then moved to California. He worked for Jacob’s Engineering and then IMS in Brea, California in computer network design.
   He is survived by his mother, Norma Patton of East Jordan; brother, George Patton, Jr. of East Jordan; sister, Robin (Joe Walling) Patton of Boyne City; nephew, George Patton, III of East Jordan; nieces, Shianne Patton of East Jordan and Taylor Patton of Boyne City; maternal grandparents, Glen (Lillian Bricker) Gee of East Jordan; fraternal grandmother, Mary Ella Patton of Boyne City; his Fiance’, Yvette Shepherd of Indiana; numerous aunt and uncles; and a bunch of friends. He was preceded in death by his father, George Patton, Sr. in 1995 and a grandfather, Herman Patton in 1998.
   Funeral services will be held on Thursday, March 10, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Rev. Rap Posnik of the East Jordan United Methodist Church will officiate.
T  he family will receive friends on Wednesday 3:00 to 5:00 and 6:00 to 8:00 P.M at the funeral home. Memorials may be given to Patton Family, P.O. Box 504, East Jordan, MI 49727.



   Yvonne Combest, 84, went to be with her Lord, on Sunday, February 27, 2011, at her home in East Jordan.
   She was born on November 14, 1926 in East Jordan, the daughter of Henry James and Beatrice May (Wardell) McWatters. On June 12, 1943 in East Jordan, she married Everett L. Combest and raised six children.
Yvonne had worked at Mt. Clemens and retired from Dura in East Jordan after 20 years. She then worked at Grandvue Medical Care Facility in East Jordan and retired after 14 years.
   Yvonne and Everett had also served as caretakers of Elm Pointe for two years. They had been a members of the East Jordan Snowmobile Club and loved to western square dance.
   She is survived by five children, Jean (Red) Lent of East Jordan, Ruth (Glenn) Crain of Charlevoix, Linda (Alvin) Merrill of East Jordan, Marilyn (Don) Williams of East Jordan and Everett Combest, Jr. of East Jordan; one son-in-law, David Russell of East Jordan; twenty grandchildren; twenty-four great grandchildren; one sister, Clara (Ervin) Prevo of East Jordan; three brothers, Dale McWatters of East Jordan and Jimmie (Toni) McWatters of East Jordan and Ronnie (Vicki) McWatters of Charlevoix; one sister-in-law, Effie Kern of Converse, Texas; numerous nieces and nephews; and her very close friends & neighbors, Bev and Martin Wiesler of East Jordan.
   She was preceded in death by her husband, Everett L. Combest, Sr. in 2006; daughter, Beatrice Russell in 2008; one great granddaughter, Stormy Varney in 1994; sister, Mamie Bolser in 2001; and brother, George McWatters in 1987.
   The funeral service will be held on Tuesday, March 1, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. at the Lighthouse Missionary Church in East Jordan. Rev. James L. Jordan will officiate. Interment will be in Sunset Hill Cemetery, East Jordan.
   The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 10:00 A.M. until service time at the Lighthouse Missionary Church. The family was served by the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Online condolences may be sent to www.penzienfh.com.


  Harold John Goebel, 93, of East Jordan, joined his Lord in Eternity on Saturday, February 12, 2011, at Northern Michigan Regional Hospital in Petoskey, MI.
   Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in East Jordan. Rev. Kurt Jensen, Rev. Harold Kruse, and Pastor Andy Goebel will officiate. Interment will be at Sunset Hill Cemetery in East Jordan, MI.
   Harold was born on October 22, 1917 in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Walter and Catherine (Wenderling) Goebel. He enjoyed growing up in Chicago with his brother Wally and sisters Ruth and Grace. He spent many summer days at Wrigley Field watching the Cubs and many Hall of Famers, which sparked his love of baseball. Harold served in the 134th Infantry Regiment of the United States Army during World War II. Upon returning to northern Michigan, he met his future wife Ometa, and they were married on December 15, 1945, at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Boyne City. They enjoyed 63 years together. Ometa preceded him in death on November 20, 2009.
   Harold worked for the East Jordan Iron Works for 25 years and retired in 1980. He also farmed most of his life and owned and operated the Jordan Dairy Freeze, now known as Marty’s Cones & Carry Out, with Ometa in East Jordan.
   Harold enjoyed gardening, picking berries and mushrooms, cutting wood, collecting Petoskey stones, and watching the Pistons, Lions, Tigers, and Michigan State sports. He also loved fishing, walks in the woods, reading his Bible, and sharing stories and jokes. More than anything, he loved to spend time with his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Harold and Ometa spent twenty-five years as winter residents of Zephyrhills, Florida where they had many friends at Winters Park and Zephyrhills Wesleyan Church.
   He was a life member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of East Jordan, where his voice filled the sanctuary each Sunday. Through the church he forged life-long friendships that will continue in eternity.
   The family expresses thanks to Dr. Mark Richmond and the staff of Northern Michigan Regional Hospital, Len Mendel, PA., and the staff of the East Jordan Family Health Center, Denise Lundy of the Charlevoix County Commission on Aging, and especially Laurene Kooyer, who lovingly assisted Harold and Ometa for several years.
  He is survived by seven children, Jim (Esther) Goebel, Phil (Sue) Goebel, Janice (John) Domalski, John (Vranda) Goebel, Steve (Gretchen) Goebel, Joy (Bill) Murray and Dan (Christina) Goebel; seventeen grandchildren; twenty-two great-grandchildren; one brother, Walter (Dolores) Goebel, Sr., one sister, Grace Jordan; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Ometa and sister Ruth Goebel.
  The family will receive friends on Monday, February 14th from 4:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.
   Memorials may be directed to the Evangelical Lutheran Church, 7855 Rogers Road, East Jordan, MI 49727. Online condolences may be sent to www.penzienfh.com.

   Betty L. Burt, 66, went to her Lord and Savior on Wednesday, February 9, 2011 in the arms of her husband at home in East Jordan. 
   She was born on March 5, 1944 in Charlevoix, the daughter of William and Geraldine (Adelblue) Healey. She grew up in East Jordan and graduated from East Jordan High School in 1962. She then attended North Central Michigan College in Petoskey. On August 24, 1963 in East Jordan, she married George W. Burt.
   She enjoyed spending time with her friends at the East Jordan Senior Center, the Coffee House and Darlene’s Restaurant all in East Jordan.
Betty had been a great athlete and played for “Kay’s Red Devils”, a women’s slow pitch team. She took great pleasure in spending time with her family, watching them grow up and play sports.
   She is survived by her loving husband, George W. Burt of East Jordan; four adoring children, Darrell Burt of East Jordan, Terry Burt of East Jordan, Kristy (Jeffrey) Sobleski of Petoskey and Jill (Joseph) Joyce of Howell; twelve grandchildren; one great grandchild; one brother, Robert (Thelma) Healey of Boyne City; one sister-in-law, Linda (Michael) Socia of Durand; one brother-in-law, Leroy Karsten of Oxford, Mississippi; and her favorite canine and companion, “Maggie”. She was preceded in death by her parents.
   Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 12, 2011 at 1:00 P.M. at the Lighthouse Missionary Church, 7874 Rogers Rd, East Jordan, MI 49727. Interment will be in Sunset Hill Cemetery, East Jordan.
   The family will receive friends on Saturday from 11:00 A.M. until service time at the church. Memorials may be given to North Country Community Mental Health, 06250 M-66, Charlevoix, MI 49720 or Lighthouse Missionary Church, 7874 Rogers Rd, East Jordan, MI 49727. Arrangements by Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.



Marian Alice Grutsch, 82, died Thursday, February 3, 2011 at her home in East Jordan.
She was born on April 8, 1928 in East Jordan, the daughter of Claud and Alice (Hott) Shepard. On October 1, 1947, she married Henry “Hank” Grutsch in East Jordan. They had three children and together raised Red Poll Cattle for 60 years. Marian had worked at the East Jordan Cooperative for 45 years, retiring in 1991.
  Marian was a 7th Degree member of the National Grange, a recipient of a 50 year Golden Sheaf by the National Grange, a 56 year member of the Peninsula Grange #706 in East Jordan and a member of the East Jordan United Methodist Church.
She is survived her children, Thomas (Sally) Grutsch, Nancy Brooks, Claudia (Kent) Libbey, and son-in-law, Richard Brooks; grandchildren, Aaron (Kate) Brock, Dawn Zimmer, Rick (Celia) Brooks, Mathew (Samantha) Libbey, MaryAlice Ruhling, Gary Brooks & Ashley Ferguson, Nathan Libbey, MaryAnn Brooks, Seth Grutsch, Kattie (Richard) White, Shawn (Lisa) Grutsch, Rebekah Grutsch and Alexander Grutsch; sixteen great grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Naomi Shepard and Doris Grutsch.
  She was preceded in death by her husband, Henry “Hank” Grutsch on May 3, 2009; her twin brother, Robert Shepard; brothers, Ralph Shepard, Sr. and Don Shepard; and grandson, Patrick Libbey.
  Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 9, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Pastor Rap Posnik of the East Jordan United Methodist Church will officiate. Interment will be in Sunset Hill Cemetery, East Jordan.
  The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 2:00 until 7:00 P.M. at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan. Memorial contributions may be given to East Jordan United Methodist Church, 201 Fourth Street, East Jordan, MI 49727 or Peninsula Grange # 706, c/o Nancy Brooks, 2282 S. Advance Road, East Jordan, MI 49727. Online condolences may be sent to www.penzienfh.com.
 

 

 

Donald K. Bahash, 76, died Thursday, January 27, 2011 at his home in Ellsworth. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. The family was serviced by the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.

Ivah L. Weisler, 67, of East Jordan died Friday, January 28, 2011 at Northern Michigan Regional Hospital in Petoskey. A memorial service will be announced at a later date. The family was served by the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.

Jerry M. Brooks, 56, of East Jordan died Wednesday, December 15, 2010 at Northern Michigan Regional Hospital in Petoskey.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 29, 2010 at 11:00 A.M. at the Lighthouse Missionary Church in East Jordan.
  In memory of Jerry M. Brooks, memorial contributions may be given to the benevolent fund at the Lighthouse Missionary Church, 7874 Rogers Road, East Jordan, MI 49727. Arrangements are pending at the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.


Russell Phelps, 91, of Taylor died Monday, January 24, 2011 at Grandvue Medical Care Facility in East Jordan.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 29, 2011 at 4:00 P.M. at the Landmark Baptist Church, 1182 Kemp Road, Petoskey, MI 49770 (231) 347-2654 (www.landmarkbaptist.ws).  The family will receive friend on Saturday from 2:00 P.M. until service time at the church.
  Memorials may be given to the Landmark Baptist Church, 1182 Kemp Road, Petoskey, MI 49770 or Grandvue Medical Care Facility, 1728 S. Peninsula Road, East Jordan, MI 49727.  The family was served by the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc. in East Jordan.