Climax Crescent Newspaper

Rolfe, Stanley W.

Of Vicksburg

Formerly of Climax

Stanley W. Rolfe, of Vicksburg passed away on Tuesday, January 6th 2015 at the age of 88. Stanley was born on October 1, 1926. He was the son of Clide and Eva Mae (Staffen) Rolfe. He was a graduate of Climax High School in 1944. Stan served his country in the United States Navy. He also worked as a chef at Upjohn Co. and retired after 35 years of service. He is survived by his wife, Georgiann, son Stuart W. Rolfe, daughter Cindy (Mike) Palmer all from Vicksburg; six grandchildren: Marcy (Chris) Carter of Kalamazoo, Schawn (Tammy) Rolfe of Vicksburg, Kevin L. Lewis, of Vicksburg, Sheril Rolfe of Westland, Amy (Jared) Stauffer of Vicksburg, Sara ( Justin) Woolwine of Vassar; 8 grandchildren and (soon to be) 9 great-grandchildren; and a brother, Clarence “Larry” (Lavon) Rolfe of Vicksburg. He is preceded in death by his parents and his daughter Karen.

The family will receive friends on Friday from 4 to 7 p.m, at Life Story Funeral Home, 409 S. Main, Vicksburg (269-649-1697). The funeral service will be on Saturday at 2 p.m. at the same location. 

Please visit Stan’s webpage at www.lifestorynet.com where you can read his life story, sign his guestbook, share a memory and/or photo. Those who wish may make contributions to the VFW 1527, South County Community Services, and/or Vicksburg United Methodist Church.  

MITCHELL, Helen Elizabeth (Willison)

Hastings

Helen Mitchell of Woodlawn Meadows in Hastings, passed away, September 6, 2014.  She was born on Armistice Day, November 11, 1918, in Barry County, Michigan, the daughter of Jason and Jessie (Lepper) Willison.  She married Robert Mitchell on May 4, 1941, and he preceded her in death in 1998.  Helen is survived by a daughter, Aneita (Don) Allen, of Butler, Indiana, sons:  Gary (Lynn) of Eaton Rapids, Michigan, Gail (Marge) of Iowa City, Iowa, Gordon of Hickory Corners, James (Gail) of Lathrop Village, Michigan, Roger and his partner Frank Peterson of Norfolk, Connecticut, and Ross (Denise) of Carlsbad, California.  She is also survived by eleven grandchildren, fourteen great grandchildren, a sister, Vera (Robert) Bostwick, several nieces and nephews.  Helen was also preceded in death by her parents, a daughter, Carol, a brother, Robert Willison, sisters, Agnes Hill, Esther Bates Howser, and Lucille Greenman.  Helen loved to garden, crochet, knit, embroider, do all kinds of crafts and play games with her grandchildren.  She devoted her life to her family, never working outside of the home after she married. Helen was a member of the Hickory Corners Wesleyan Church.  Helen’s family will receive friends, Monday, 6:00 to 8:00 PM, at the Williams-Gores Funeral Home, Delton.  Funeral service for Helen will be conducted, Tuesday, September 9, 2014, 11:00 AM, at Hickory Corners Wesleyan Church, Pastor Len Davis, officiating.  Burial will take place in East Hickory Corners Cemetery.  Memorial contributions to Hickory Corners Wesleyan Church, will be appreciated.  Please visit www.williamsgoresfuneral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Helen’s family. 

PEASE, Donald W.

Of Scotts

Age 84

Passed away Thursday, October 10, 2013.  Don was born March 4, 1929 in Scotts, MI the son of the late Leo and Mabel (Webster) Pease and was a lifelong resident of the area.  For over 40 years, he was the co-owner of the Pease Packing Corp.  Don served for 3 years in the United States Army, during WW II, in the Panama Canal area and on June 28, 1951, he married Wanda Mae Lux, who preceded him in death on January, 25, 1999.  He loved playing cribbage, hunting, his time spent at the Peaseful Pond, the Farm Bureau and riding his 4 wheeler. He also loved fishing and spending winters in Texas with his fiancée, Anne Mercer.

  Don is survived by his children, David Pease and Thomas Pease, both of Scotts, Colleen (Gary) Ensing of Lebanon, OH and Teresa (Brian) Logan of Eagle, MI; 10 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; his fiancée, Anne Mercer, of Iowa; nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held at 11:00 AM, Monday, October 14, 2013 in the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Galesburg Chapel, 145 W. Battle Creek St., with Rev. Glenn Litchfield, officiating.   Interment followed in the Gilson Cemetery, Scotts, MI.  The family received friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 4-7 PM and on Monday, beginning at 10:00 AM until service time.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Scotts Community Center or the Great Lakes Caring Hospice.  

Please visit www.langelands.com<http://www.langelands.com/> to view Don's video and sign the register book to leave messages for the family.

Florence F. (Forbush) Vosburg

Age 106

Of Battle Creek

Florence F. (Forbush) Vosburg, Age 106, Of Battle Creek, Died Friday, October 11, 2013. She was born in Scotts, Michigan to Adelbert and Jennie (Martin) Forbush and lived in this area all of her life. After graduating from Scotts High School in 1924, she earned a Life and B.S. degree in teaching from Western Michigan University. She also attended the University of Wisconsin and received a Kellogg Foundation Scholarship to Mankato Teachers College. Mrs. Vosburg taught in Climax Public School for eight years and in 1934 joined the faculty at Lakeview Consolidated Schools, where she taught for nine years. In 1937 she married Lawrence L. Vosburg who preceded her in death in 1987. She was a member of the Michigan and National Education Associations and the Battle Creek Area Retired School Personnel. She was a member of the First Congregational Church, the Centennial Circle and the Battle Creek Women’s Social Club. She was a Camp Fire Girls Leader for many years. She enjoyed sewing, knitting, reading, playing bridge and her yard and flower gardens. At age 90 she was awarded the Beautiful Battle Creek Award for Property Maintenance and Beautification. She had one brother, Gardner Forbush who died in 1963. Surviving is a nephew, David L. (Sandra) Forbush of Mendon and one great nephew, Lee (Leslie) Forbush; great niece, Sheramy Forbush and great great nieces, Abagaill and Katelin Forbush; special caregivers, Marji and Lyn. Visitation will be held Monday from 5 to 8:00 p.m., at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 15, 2013, at the funeral home. Interment will be at Memorial Park Cemetery. Should friends desire, contributions may be made to the First Congregational Church Radio Fund, Alzheimer’s Association or Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice. www.henryfuneralhome.org      

Holtz, Lee J.

Age 76

Passed away on Sunday, September 1st 2013 peacefully at home in Climax with his family at his side. Lee was born November 20th, 1936 in Scotts, Michigan to Earl and Melva Holtz. He retired April, 2000 from the Kalamazoo County Road Commission after 28 years of service. Lee was also a member of Kalamazoo Valley Antique Engine and Machinery Club; where he participated in three annual Mackinac Bridge crossings. Lee and his wife also enjoyed traveling in their motor home to attend tractor shows out of state; with tractors in tow. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Geraldine; one son and two daughters; Ben (Jackie) Holtz of Climax, Suzanne Holtz of Battle Creek, and Marjorie (Darren) Schmitt of Galesburg; and three grandchildren, Curtis Holtz, Hilary (Jason) Wade and Christie Schmitt. Lee is also survived by a brother Elwin (Mable) Holtz of Fulton and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death earlier this year by his sister, Lucille Pierson of Fulton. Visitation will be from 5-8 PM on Wednesday, Sept. 4th at Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Climax Chapel, 205 E. Maple Street. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, Sept. 5th at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to Great Lakes Caring Hospice. Please visit Lee’s personalized webpage for directions, his online guestbook or to leave a condolence to his family at www.langelands.com. 

Schwartz, Edith

of Colon, MI

   Edith Schwartz, age 72, of Colon, passed away March 29, 2013, at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo surrounded by her family.

   She was born Feb. 27, 1941, in Choteau, Okla., to Tobe and Lizzie (Miller) Troyer. Edith attended the Honeyville School near Topeka, Ind. On Nov. 18, 1958, she married Christian Schwartz in Sarasota, Fla. He preceded her in death Dec. 30, 2007.

    Edith was raised in an Amish family with nine sisters and three brothers. She worked for the Berk-Knit Company in Colon for 19 years where she was a seamstress. Edith loved Michigan football and lively political conversations. She enjoyed gardening, but most of all, spending time with her family.

   Surviving are her children, Dana (Terrie) Schwartz of Scotts, Todd Schwartz of Colon, Sophia (Les) Szabo of Littleton, Colo., Joe (Jennifer) Schwartz of Sturgis; grandchildren, Nathan Schwartz of Galesburg, Andrea (Gary) Truax of Kalamazoo, Nicholas Schwartz of Scotts, Sebastian Minshall of Colon, Meghan and Adam Schwartz of Sturgis, Ally & Zach Szabo of Littleton, Colo.; two great-grandsons Dylan and Jackson Truax of Kalamazoo; and many brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Chris; brothers Bill Troyer and Mose Troyer; and sisters Lydia Drury and Mary Bontrager.

   Visitation was held Tuesday April 2, 2013, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the Schipper Funeral Home LTD in Colon. Funeral services celebrating the life of Edith were held Wednesday, April 3, 2013, at 11 a.m. at Word Fellowship Church in Centreville with Pastor Russ Stauffer officiating and a lunch to follow at the church.

    In accordance to her wishes, cremation will follow the service and private internment of ashes will take place in Leonidas Cemetery at a later date.

    The family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Edith’s memory consider Word Fellowship Church, 27570 Marvin Road, Centreville, MI 49032. Envelopes are available at the funeral home.

Townsend, Wayne A. 

Wayne A Townsend, age 67 of The Villages, FL, formerly of Vicksburg passed away on Thursday, December 20, 2012.  A memorial service will be held on Friday, April 19, 2013 at the Vicksburg United Methodist Church at 1 PM .  Arrangements by Life Story Funeral Home, 409 S. Main, Vicksburg (269-649-1697), for more information visit www.lifestorynet.com .  

HORSFALL, Wesley E.

Of Kalamazoo

Wesley passed away Sunday morning, March 24, 2013 at his home. He was born December 18, 1923 in his family’s farm in Scotts, the son of the late Walter and Emily Maude (Gray) Horsfall. Wesley grew up the youngest of eight children on the family farm and attended Scotts Schools. One of Wesley’s first jobs was selling milking machine equipment with his brother, William, to Illinois farms. During World War II, he worked at Willow Run Bomber Plant building B-24s, where he met Marie Ernst. They were married on April, 3, 1934 in Olney, IL, until her passing on July 29, 1984. On November 29, 1985, he married the former Betty (Worrell) West in Kalamazoo. Wesley was employed by James River Corp. for 27 years until his retirement in 1986. Surviving are his wife, Betty Horsfall; two children, Darryl (Karen) Horsfall of Scotts and Janet (Michael) Fitzpatrick of Kalamazoo; three grandchildren, Sondra (Steven) Pletcher of Dorr, Sara (Spencer) Champion of Scotts and Eric (Katie) Fitzpatrick of Kalamazoo; five great-grandchildren, Jeremy and Caleb Pletcher, Kaitlynn and Gage Champion and Emma Fitzpatrick; step-children, Connie (Jack) Hayward, Monty (Marcia) West and Martha Cook; and several step-grandchildren, step-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins. Preceding him in death were his first wife, Marie Horsfall; his parents, Walter and Maude Horsfall; three brothers, William, S. Carleton, and R. Stanley Horsfall; and four sisters, Lorraine Webster, Marguerite Fenwick, Marjorie Hayward and Lucille Horsfall. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1:30 PM on Wednesday, March 27, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 936 Lake Street, with Msgr. Michael Hazard officiating. Interment will follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family from 4-8 PM on Tuesday at Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick Street. Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Joseph Catholic Church. Please visit Wesley’s personalized webpage for directions, his online guestbook or to leave a condolence to his family at www.langelands.com.

SALISBURY, Linda Jane

Vicksburg

Age 69 

Passed away Sunday, March 10, 2013.  Linda was born December 18, 1943 in Lawton, MI, the daughter of the late Lyndon and Marian (Lull) Etter.  She was a resident of the Vicksburg area for several years and worked as a baker at the Felpausch Food Center for 12 years.  On October 27, 1962, she married Morris “Ron” Salisbury, who survives.  Linda is also survived by their children, Denise (David) Adams of Fulton, MI and Teri (Randy) Pack of Vicksburg; 6 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; two brothers, Lynn (Pauline) Etter of Mission, TX and Larry (Peg) Etter of Marcellus, MI; a brother-in-law, James (Mary) Salisbury of Scotts. She was preceded in death by a sister-in-law, Maureen Salisbury.  Funeral services will be held on Thursday, March 14, 2013 at 1:00 PM in the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Climax Chapel, 205 E. Maple St. with Rev. Patrick Clarey officiating.  Interment will follow in Boughton Cemetery.  The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 4-7 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the West Michigan Cancer Center, 200 N. Park St., Kalamazoo, MI.  Please visit www.langelands.com for online obituary, directions and register book to leave condolences.  (269) 343-1508 

Neva (Wahley) Organ

    Neva I. Organ Battle Creek Neva I. Organ, 83, died at The Oaks at NorthPointe Woods on Monday, March 4, 2013. Neva was born July 9, 1929 in Galesburg, MI to William and Neva I. (Roe) Wahley. Her parents died when she was an infant and her aunt and uncle, Hazel and William Roe raised her. She was a 1949 graduate of Galesburg High School. Neva was employed for several years for Dr. and Mrs. Dan Scott. Neva enjoyed golfing, bowling and solving puzzles. Neva married Keith V. Organ on August 20, 1954 in Angola, IN. She was preceded in death by Keith, her husband of over 55 years on January 16, 2010. Surviving are her children, Larry Organ of Battle Creek, Margaret Ann Parson of Delton and Kathy (Roy) Barbree of Battle Creek; niece, Judy Myers of Pompano Beach, FL; nephew, Steve Slager of Galesburg; and many family members in the Galesburg and Climax area. In addition to her parents, Neva was preceded in death by brothers, Lyle Wahley and Bob Wahley and a sister Maxine (Peachy) Bauman. Neva's remains will be placed next to her husband, Keith at the Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Arrangements are by the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Battle Creek Veterans Affairs Medical Center Patient Activity Fund. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.

Luella (Strong) Morrison, of Scotts 

With a life that spanned nearly a century, Luella Morrison was a gracious and kindhearted woman who made a significant impact in the lives of so many others who were within her reach. With an unwavering faith as her constant companion, she never worried about building wealth according to the world’s measure, rather, she focused her attention on living life to the fullest every day. Luella was a devoted wife and mother who nurtured not only her own family but also children and adults in need of care within her community. She leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that will remain forever near and dear to the hearts of her loved ones.

The year 1917 is often remembered as the year that our nation entered into WWI after repeated hostilities left us with no choice but to engage in the fight. This was during a decade that was saturated with unsafe working conditions, a lack of child labor laws, and the growing unrest of the middle class. There was much to celebrate in the lives of a bustling family from Vicksburg, Michigan, during this same year, however, as they were overjoyed to welcome a healthy baby girl into the fold on February 25th. Luella M. was the sixth of eight children born to her parents, Edgar and Nellie (Reinbolt) Louden, and she was born and raised in the family home that was situated on the family farm on 36th Street in the Vicksburg/Scotts area. 

Joined in her family by her seven siblings, Luella experienced a childhood that was fairly typical for the youth of her generation. Her father was a hardworking farmer while her mother was a busy homemaker. Luella was a student at the one-room schoolhouse near her home for a time. 

New and exciting changes were in store for Luella when she met and married a man named Raymond Strong when she was just 16 years old. In 1938 they had a son named Charlie. Sadly, she mourned the loss of her husband with his death in 1959 after a battle with multiple sclerosis. 

Brighter days were on the horizon when Luella met the man who would change the course of her life forever. His name was Charles Morrison, and they were married in August of 1960. Also in June 1960, her son Charlie met and married Monique Zenny. Luella was overjoyed to become a grandmother to two wonderful grandchildren, Cheridah and Mark. Later in life, she welcomed two great granddaughters; Asha and Aleeyah. Christmas and Thanksgiving were always her favorite time of year as it was a time to spend together as a family. 

Throughout her life Luella worked in a variety of places. During WWII she worked at Grace Corset Factory, making parachutes. Luella also waitressed at Chicken Charlie’s in Kalamazoo and Inman’s in Galesburg. For a time she also made wooden toys at Hubley’s in Battle Creek. With her nurturing spirit, Luella had a child fostercare home and later an adult foster care home, which was one of the first homes of its kind in Kalamazoo. The home remained open for 60 years.

In addition to spending time with her loved ones Luella enriched her life in other ways as well. She was a devoted Christian who read her Bible faithfully for as long as she was able. Luella was also a member of the Centreville Seventh Day Adventist Church. She loved heading up North to take in the beauty of Michigan, and she was a country music fan who enjoyed hearing a good banjo. Luella’s skills in the kitchen were unmatched, and she collected recipes so she was often able to try something new. Molasses cookies were among her most requested specialities. 

A loving, compassionate, and gentle woman, Luella Morrison was a blessing in the lives of her friends and loved ones. She was hardworking, yet she also had the best sense of humor with a contagious laughter to boot. Luella was a picture of what it means to live a life of purpose guided by a personal faith. She will be dearly missed and warmly remembered.

Luella M. Morrison died on Friday, March 1, 2013. Luella’s family includes her son: Chuck (Monique) Strong, of Scotts; two grandchildren: Cheridah (Frank) Miller, of Scotts; Mark Strong, of Scotts; two great-grandchildren: Asha and Aleeyah Miller; one sister, Betty Taylor, of Vicksburg. Luella was preceded in death by her two husbands: Raymond Strong and Charles Morrison; and six siblings. The funeral service was held on Tuesday, March 5 at Life Story Funeral Home, 409 S. Main St, Vicksburg (269-649-1697). Burial at Boughton Cemetery. Please visit Luella’s webpage at www.lifestorynet.com where you can sign the guestbook. Those who wish may make memorial denotations to Battle Creek Academy’s Worthy Student Fund.

Anne Gedman

Of Battle Creek

Formerly of Scotts

Anne Gedman, 91, of Battle Creek, died Thursday, February 14, 2013 at her residence.  Anne was born November 30, 1921 in Chicago, IL to Martin and Anna (Zrini) Skaritka.  Most of her childhood was spent in inner-city Chicago where her parents were very successful tavern owners, after emigrating from Europe. She graduated high school and married Frank Gedman on June 28, 1941.  She worked as a quality control supervisor in the auto industry for many years.

While living in Scotts, MI, she was active in the Climax-Scotts Elementary Mother's Club, card club, and a charter member of the County Homemakers Extension Group. She and her husband, Frank, were faithful supporters of the Climax American Legion Post #465. After retiring to Texas, she became an avid bowler, and volunteered at the local hospital and mostly enjoyed volunteering in the reading program with local elementary children. She was also an active member, as well as officer, of the local Does chapter.

Surviving are her two daughters Linda McMurtrie (Robert L McMurtrie) and Judith Shaffer (Larry McCartin,) two grandchildren Jennifer Piper-Cool and Jamie Shaffer Ruiz, and four great grandchildren Victoria Anne Smith - Piper, Levi James Piper - Cool, Zachary N. Ruiz and Adrianna M- Ruiz, (step grand-children Michelle Larason & Matt McMurtrie).  Anne was preceded in death by her husband Frank C Gedman.

Cremation has taken place and a memorial service to celebrate Anne’s life was held Tuesday, February 19, 2013 at the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home, officiated by Pastor Bruce Kintigh of Birchwood United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation, PO Box 871847, Kansas City, MO 64187-1847, to benefit Anne’s great-granddaughter, Adrianna Ruiz.  Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com. 

Richard Gibson - formerly of Climax

Lyndon-Richard D. Gibson, 63, passed away on Friday, January 25, 2013 at Midland Hospice House in Topeka, Kansas. He was born on March 31, 1949 in Battle Creek, MI, the son of Lloyd and Vivian (Smoke) Gibson. Richard grew up in Michigan, and joined the United States Army where he served for over 22 years, retiring at the rank of First Sergeant. He had lived in Germany and Killeen, TX with the Army before moving to Lyndon Kansas in 1989. While in Lyndon he worked at Lyndon Building Materials as a Maintenance Supervisor and at the Lyndon Schools for 15 years. After retiring, he worked for Schultz Farms. 

    On November 23, 1970 Richard was married to Mildred Vanderslice in Junction City, KS. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Vivian. Richard is survived by his wife Mildred ; his two sons, Brandon Gibson of Lyndon and Brent (Erin) Gibson of Burlingame; his brother, Marvin (Chris) Gibson of Climax, MI; his sister, Sharon (Lewis) Lake of Battle Creek, MI; and two grandchildren. 

Funeral services for Richard were held on Tuesday, January 29, 2013 at the Feltner Funeral Chapel in Lyndon, KS. Burial took place at the Lyndon cemetery with U.S. Army honors. Memorial contributions may be made to Midland Hospice in care of Feltner Funeral Home, 818 Topeka Ave., Lyndon, KS 66451. 

June Marie (Machin) Jourdan 

age 78 of Sturgis, Michigan

Formerly of Climax

June Marie (Machin) Jourdan age 78 of Sturgis, Michigan passed away Thursday evening January 10, 2013 at her home surrounded by her children.

     She was born August 30, 1934 at the family home in Climax, Michigan daughter of the late Karl T. and Noma A. (Holt) Machin.

     June resided in Sturgis since 1954 coming from Climax, Michigan where she lived her early life and was a graduate of Climax High School with the class of 1953.

     On February 6, 1954 she married Henry W. Jourdan, Jr. in Climax.  He died August 26, 2009.

     She retired from Grumman Olson in Sturgis following several years of dedicated employment.  In her earlier years she had worked at several area restaurants and factories.

     June enjoyed people and loved her family deeply.  Celebrating each day was important to her.  She especially made Christmas very special for others.

     She is survived by one son: Alan Jourdan of Sturgis; two daughters: Connie Mark) Greenwald of Mount Pleasant and Cindy Campbell of Colon; five grandchildren: Cheyenne Campbell of Colon, Hunter Jourdan of White Pigeon, Robert Alan Jourdan of Lawrenceburg, Tennessee, Ellen (Jerry) Lowrey of Des Plaines, Illinois and Leah (Dan) Segura of Midland; one sister: Mary Lou McCollough of Homer and sister-in-law: Marlene Machin Harrison of Climax.

     She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one son: William Henry Jourdan 1989, one sister: Arlene Tennet and two brothers: William Machin and Karl D. Machin.

     The family will receive friends from 2:00-5:00 P.M. Sunday at the Hackman Family Funeral Homes – Hackman Chapel, 114 S. Nottawa St., Sturgis, MI 49091, 269-651-2331.  Funeral services celebrating the life of June M. Jourdan will be held at 10:30 A.M. Monday at the funeral home.  The Rev. James Bender of the First Baptist Church in Sturgis will officiate.  A graveside committal will follow the service at Oak Lawn Cemetery in Sturgis.

     The family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Mrs. Jourdan’s memory consider Commission on Aging, 103 S. Douglas St., Three Rivers, MI 49093 or Hospice of Sturgis, P.O. Box 126, Sturgis, MI 49091.

The obituary is also at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhome.com where personal messages of support may be left for the family.  

Mrs. Barbara D. (Machin) Reisterer

Beloved daughter, sister, stepmother, grandmother, aunt, and friend passed away on October 22, 2012 at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo.

Barbara was born March 27, 1951 in Battle Creek, daughter of William and Marlene (Reschner) Machin. She graduated from Climax-Scotts High School Class of 1969. On October 28, 1976 she wed Joseph Reisterer.

Barbara was preceded in death by her father William and by her husband Joseph. Surviving are her mother, Marlene Harrison; stepdaughter Paula Henton of Portage; siblings Robert (Salley) Machin of Climax, Thomas (Cindy) Machin of Kalamazoo, and Jennifer Machin of Crescent City, CA; five grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Barbara will be dearly missed and always remembered for her honesty and loyalty to family and friends.

At her request there will be no services. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Rose Arbor Hospice Residence, 5473 Croyden Ave., Kalamazoo, MI 49009. 

LONGFIELD, John H.

Galesburg

Passed away Oct. 11, 2012. John was born April 30, 1930 in Chicago the son of Walter and Lois (Pierson) Longfield. John was an Army veteran of the Korean Conflict. John retired from James River with (or after) 44 years of service. He married Patsy Lewman Oct. 25, 1952 who survives. Also surviving a son, Michael (Delora) Longfield, 6 grand daughters, 6 great grand sons and one great grand daughter, a son-in-law, Russ Hoffman and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a daughter Debbie Hoffman. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service was held Thursday, Oct. 18, 2012 at the Scotts United Methodist Church with Rev. Glenn Litchfield officiating with a visitation at the church starting at 10am. Interment of cremains will take place at Gilson Cemetery in Scotts. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Ass. or the church. Please share a memory or sign the guest book at http://www.avinkcremation.com/ 

Edward C. Fromm 

of Climax 

Edward C. Fromm, 90, of Climax went to be with his Heavenly Father, whom he had served for over 80 years, at Bronson Battle Creek on Thursday, October 4, 2012. He was born August 18, 1922 in Battle Creek, MI to Edwin H. and Jennie D (French) Fromm. Ed resided on the family farm near Climax, graduated from Climax High School, and then served with the U.S. Navy during WWII. He has farmed most of his life and was employed by U.S. Steel & Wire Company in Battle Creek for 43 years, retiring when they closed. Edward married Jean M. Edwards January 31, 1946. He was preceded in death by Jean, his loving wife of 56 years, on January 29, 2002. Surviving are a son, Ronald (Delma) Fromm of Battle Creek; two daughters, Beth "Becky" (Thomas) Chapman of Anderson, IN; Edith "Edie" (Robert) Allen of Bourbonnais, IL; seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Harold Fromm. Ed attended South Side Bible Church in Battle Creek. He enjoyed his family, traveling with his wife, and farming. Friends may call after 6:00 p.m. Monday at the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home, where they will be received 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Funeral services were held at the funeral home on Tuesday, October 9, 2012. Interment followed at Prairie Home Cemetery in Climax, MI. Memorial contributions may be made to the Missions Fund of the South Side Bible Church. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.

Carol (Rose) Polischuck

Carol Polischuck, 88, of Tallahassee, Florida and formerly of Battle Creek and Climax, passed from this life into eternal rest on Sunday, August 12, 2012. She was born on March 12, 1924 in Marshall, Mich., to C. Lawrence and Maud G. (Joy) Rose.

After her father’s death, her mother married Leo Joslyn and moved to The Joslyn Farm on Stonejug Road in Battle Creek.

Carol married Samuel Polischuck on April 7, 1951. He preceded her in death in 1992.

Carol is survived by her son Christopher (Marcia) Polischuck of Tallahassee, Fla. and a daughter Susan Carol Polischuck. Also 2 sisters, Shirley Gjukis of Pine City, Ohio and Gene Simmons of Battle Creek. Also a brother, Thomas (Margie) Joslyn, 3 grandchildren, Beth, Leanne and Robert. Also a sister in law, Lois Joslyn of Battle Creek.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and a brother Lowell.

Carol once lived in Climax for a short time and went to the Hiscock School. Two of her friends were Ardith Jones and Betty Jean Nickerson.

Carol loved NASCAR, basketball, baseball and in the winter watched ice skating on TV.

She was always available when the grandchildren had something going on at school and seldom missed an event.

She was a perfect hostess and a wonderful cook, especially Christmas cookies, goulash and Ukranian Galabki’s (Ha-Loop-Ki’s). She loved to knit, crewel and made the most beautiful Christmas stockings for the grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life Service was held Saturday, Sept. 1 at the Climax Methodist Church with a graveside service at the Beckley Road Cemetary on Helmer Road in Battle Creek.

Memorial Donations may be sent to the Methodist Church in Climax, MI. 

Hildred “Billie” King

Hildred “Billie” King passed away on June 25th at Legacy Hospice House in Ocala, Florida.  She was 88.

Billie was born to Arthur and Edythe Haight in Des Moines, Iowa, and raised in Omaha, Nebraska.  She attended Rockford College in Illinois and in 1945 graduated with a major in history from the University of Michigan.  After graduating, Billie moved to New York City where she met Paul King, her husband to be.  After their marriage, Billie and Paul settled in Westchester County where they raised their two daughters Kathy and Carrie.

In 1968, Billie returned to the Midwest with her two daughters and settled in Kalamazoo, Michigan, where she joined the staff of Kalamazoo College as Head Resident of Trowbridge Hall. In 1974, Billie became Director of Counseling at the college after receiving her masters degree from Western Michigan University. During her time at Kalamazoo College, Billie was mentor, confident, and friend to many students. Many of these acquaintances would develop into lifelong friendships which she greatly valued.

In 1986, Billie retired from K College and moved to Climax, Michigan, where she restored the ancestral home, a Greek revival house built in 1848. Restoring the home became a labor of love and eventually earned it a place on the Michigan Historic Site Registry.

Working with the Prairie Historical Society, Billie was instrumental in obtaining a grant to restore the old Climax Post Office which was built in 1931 and was the site of Michigan's first Rural Free Delivery service. The building was donated to the Village in 1963 to house the Lawrence Memorial Library. After restoration, the old Post Office turned library was granted Michigan Historic status, and in 1999, was added to the National Register of Historic places.

In addition to her involvement with the Lawrence Memorial Library, Billie was also an active member of the Prairie Historical Society and served on the Climax Village Council for several years.  With a degree in history, it was only natural that Billie enjoyed researching and working with the Prairie Historical Society in piecing together the area's history.  Her commitment to this pursuit has been invaluable to the Village and she will be sorely missed, not only for her knowledge of local history, but for her spicy temperament and propensity for standing up for what she believed. Billie spent her life promoting the causes of equality and social justice, endeavors to which she was deeply committed.

In May of 2012, Billie's daughter Carrie brought her to Florida so they could spend time together, not knowing that these would be her final days. In June, Billie spent eight restful days in Hospice care before she decided that she had had enough and left us.

Billie was predeceased by her daughter, Kathryn Simmons, in 2010.  Surviving are her daughter Carolyn King (Steve Mish) of Hernando, Florida; granddaughter Rachel Rintelmann (Damian) of Silver Spring, Maryland;  grandson Michael Simmons (Julie) of Reynoldsburg, Ohio; and great grandchildren Carter, Kristina, and Ethan. She is also survived by her son-in-law Brent Simmons of East Lansing; her cousin David Stienecker of New York City; nephews Julian Haight and Toby Hollander; and niece Molly Haight. In addition to her immediate family, Billie is also remembered by a much beloved extended family that provided her with lasting friendships, love, and support over the years. You know who you are, and her family thanks you for the richness you added to Billie’s life. 

Cremation has taken place and a memorial will be held later at her home in Climax for family and friends. The family asks that any contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Association, in memory of her daughter Kathryn.

 MACK, Cleon

Grand Rapids

Age 88

  Passed away Wednesday, June 6, 2012.  Cleon was born March 7, 1924 in Colon, MI, the son of Everett and Beulah (Proctor) Mack and lived in the Climax area for many years.  He was well known in Climax as a self-employed electrical contractor for over 44 years and proudly served his country in the United States Army Air Force during WW II. He was one of the veterans who started the American Legion, Post 465 of Climax and served as the first Post Commander.  He also served as the Vice-Commander for the State of Michigan.  On June 7, 1945, he married Alice May Victoria Kidman, who preceded him in death on December 29, 2011. He was also preceded by his parents and a brother, Leroy Mack. Cleon is survived by his son, David (Patricia) Mack of Greenville; grandchildren, Jay (Teresia) Eakins, Ryan (Angie) Mack and Trevor Mack; five Great Grandchildren; his brother, Harold Mack; nieces and nephews.  A Memorial Service will be held on Monday, June 11, 2012, at 3:00 PM in the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Climax Chapel, 205 E. Maple St. with Rev. Glenn Litchfield officiating.  The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday beginning at 2:00 PM until service time.   In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Climax United Methodist Church or the Climax American Legion.  Please visit www.langelands.com for online obituary, directions, register book and condolences.  (269) 343-1508

 CUMMINS,

Robert M.

of Inverness, FL

Robert M. Cummins, 90, of Inverness, Florida, passed away on May 13, 2012. Bob was the son of Ruth Carrell and Dale Cummins. He was born in Marshall, MI, on July 3, 1921 and attended Marshall Schools. He served in the Army during the second world war.

Most of Bob’s life was spent in Michigan, living in Battle Creek, Jenison, and Traverse City. He was an avid power boater and was named Commodore of the Grand Traverse Yacht Club. His career included salesman for R G Dunn Cigar Company, National Sales Manager for River Queen Boats, and an independent dealer for Paymaster Products.

He lived the last 17 years in Florida working for Enterprise Car Rental and doing volunteer work at the Inverness Hospital and Sheriff’s Department.

Bob is survived by his wife Bonnie, of Climax; daughters, Barbara (Richard) Bartow, of Battle Creek and Susan Cummins, of Traverse City; sons, Philip (Terie) Cummins of Comstock and Robert Dane Cummins, of Traverse City; three step children, James (Lise) Patterson of Climax, Sherri (Rick) Ramsdell of Vicksburg and Alica (Don) Cummings of Lawton; brother Philip Cummins, of Battle Creek; thirteen grandchildren and several great grandchildren.

There will be a graveside service for Bob at the Fort Custer National Cemetery, 15501 Dickman Road, Augusta on June 15, 2012 at 11:00 a.m.

Graham, Jule Anne “Julie”

Graham, Jule Anne “Julie” 68, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, formerly of Scotts, died Friday, June 8th, 2012 at Heritage Community of Kalamazoo. 

Julie was born March 15, 1944 in Scotts, Michigan to the late Benjamin and Idabelle (Ingraham) Graham. She is a 1962 graduate of Climax-Scotts High School. Julie retired from the United States Postal Service on 9th Street in Oshtemo. She is the beloved mother of Sherry and Denise and is the devoted grandmother of two grandsons. She is the sister of Linda (Graham) and Michael Harvey of Climax and Carol (Graham) and Herb Magley of Constantine. Julie is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and grand-nieces.

A graveside memorial will be held at Gilson Cemetery in Scotts, Michigan on a later date.