In Memoriam
IN MEMORY OF.... OUR CLASSMATES AND FACULTY WHO HAVE PASSED AWAY.
“Only when you drink from the river of silence shall you indeed sing.
And when you have reached the mountain top, then you shall begin to climb.
And when the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance.”
~Kahlil Gibran, The Prophet~
In Memoriam Archives:
- John F. Kennedy High School
- Harry S. Truman High School
- Taylor Center High School
- Taylor High School
- Taylor School District Staff
.....Scroll down to see Recent Obituaries.......
Fretenborough Smith, Mary (Taylor Center 1973)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Mary Fretenborough Smith. Mary, age 68, passed September 17, 2023. Beloved mother of Sarah (Mike) Gatza and Danny (Cassie) Smith. Loving sister of Peggy Dolson, Roy (Patty) Fretenborough, Terri Becker, Laurie (Mike) Cuellar, and Lee Fretenborough. Proud grandmother of Elijah, Isabelle, Tyler, Joseph, Raegan, Molly, and Luke. Friend and former wife of Dennis Smith. Also survived by many nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews. Mary K. Smith was proud owner and President of Smith Insurance Group (Formerly Commercial Underwriters) where she spent her 50 year career serving the community. She enjoyed several years as owner of Heritage Perk Coffee house in Taylor. She spent countless hours serving in various roles within the Parishes of St. Paschal's, Our Lady of Angels, Aquinas Highschool and Cabrini. Mary loved leading Zumba Gold classes at the Taylor Recreation Center. She was a devoted Mother, Godmother, Grandmother, Daughter, Sister, Aunt and Friend. She was passionate in her faith and her selflessness was an inspiration to all who knew her. She set her goals high and would stop at nothing to achieve them. If she was told something wasn't possible she would find a way to make it possible. While she excelled in her career her true passion was her family. Together with her (former) husband she provided a beautiful foundation rooted in faith for her children. She humbly led her life by example. She quietly gave of herself daily to all who knew her, never looking for acknowledgement or praise. Her children, nieces, nephews and then grandchildren and great nieces and nephews brought her such joy. She kept a very demanding schedule but always found time to watch the grandchildren in their various activities. She loved spending time with them and in recent years was teaching them all about her backyard garden she had been growing. They loved to accompany her to water all the beautiful flowers on the Cabrini Campus. She loved dinners with her oldest grandchild Elijah, where they could discuss all things Star Wars, Harry Potter, history and the current state of the world. She loved to host our family for backyard pool parties. It was truly one of her favorite things to watch the children enjoying the pool. While she preferred to stay closer to home, she was able to achieve her lifelong dream to visit the beautiful country of Ireland. She so thoroughly enjoyed seeing the country and learning about the culture. She was the center of our family and we will miss her all the days of our lives. Visitation for Mary will take place on Sunday, September 24, 2023 from 1-8 pm at Weise Funeral Home, 7210 Park Avenue, Allen Park, MI 48101. The funeral mass will take place on Monday, September 25, 2023 at 9:45 am (In state at 9:15 am) at St. Frances Cabrini Church, 9000 Laurence, Allen Park, MI 48101. Interment at Our Lady of Hope Cemetery. Memorial Contributions can be made to Gianna House at https://giannahouse.org/donate/
Lyberg, Cody (Kennedy 2007)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Cody Lyberg. Cody J., age 34, of Taylor, September 06, 2023. Beloved son of John and Jodi Rouse. Loving father of Mckenzie Rose Lyberg. Dearest brother of Kacey Lynn Lyberg. He is also survived by his grandparents Linda and Bob Thomson, grandfather Ralph "Buck" Rouse, uncle Roger (Shelley) Elkins, Uncles Mike and David Rouse, his cousins Rob (Amanda) Lyberg, Kyle (Savannah) Elkins and Holly Elkins. He was preceded in death by his father Eric Lyberg, brother Shane Lyberg, uncle Paul Lyberg and grandparents, Robert & Geri Lyberg and Myrna Rouse. His cremation will take place at "The Witness Crematory" located inside of Michigan Memorial Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Taylor Animal Shelter.
Fahnestock Watkins, Lynn (Kennedy 1969)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Lynn Fahnestock Watkins. The family of Lynn A. Watkins, of Taylor, is saddened to announce her passing on Friday, August 11, 2023 at the age of 71 years. Beloved wife of JD Watkins who preceded her in death in 2019. Loving sister of Lois (Ian) Williamson, Robin (Doug) James, and Christin Russell. Dear sister-in-law of Gidget Davis. Cherished aunt of Sarah, Jenn (Ben), Andrew, Cori, Heather (Kevin), Colin, Chloe, Douglas (Brianne), Valeta, Barry, Brenda, Bryan, and Leola/Krissy. Dearest great aunt of Cameron, Claire, Benjamin, Audrey, Olivia, Nora, Elaina, and Joel. Lynn is also survived by many extended family members including her aunts and uncles Bob (Karen) Dyer and Dick (Linda) Dyer as well as her cousins Marc, Penny, Michael, Rick, and Susannah. Lynn was born on August 19, 1951 to Richard and BettyJane Fahnestock and lived in Parma Heights, Ohio before the family eventually moved to Michigan. She grew up in Taylor, Michigan and was a graduate of John F. Kennedy High School. Lynn had a love for life and a deep passion for the people around her. She was an educator and passionately embraced the Montessori model of teaching and caring for children. The foundation of Montessori is an emphasis on allowing children to follow their interests and highlights hands-on learning. Lynn’s dedication to this learning model made her popular both in the classroom and family gatherings. She was the fun aunt. She was always ready to accept the challenge of a puzzle or an eye-spy book with her nieces and nephews. As an educator, Lynn devoted her life to listening, observing, and putting the needs of children first. Her passion for people extended outside the classroom. Spurred on by her grandmother, Lynn developed into an accomplished letter writer and regularly corresponded with friends and family. She was sure to send thank you notes after a gift was received and always sent out Christmas cards. Lynn remembered the special occasions in people’s lives and a card or note would show up in their mailbox. Many different causes received her patronage over the years but two were notably special to Lynn. She was an active member of Soroptimist International, which is an organization that seeks to encourage and support women through education and training so that they can receive economic empowerment and live better lives. Lynn also loved being a member of the Wyandotte Yacht Club. Her dear husband, JD, was a sailor and they loved boating together. They faithfully served in many different leadership roles throughout their time with the club. After all the work and activity of her day, Lynn was ready to wind down while watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy!. It was common knowledge in the family that she’d answer most Jeopardy! questions correctly and thought about auditioning but figured it was harder than it looked while sitting on the couch. Lynn will be sincerely missed by her family and friends. Memorial Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023 beginning at 12:00 PM until the 3:00 PM Memorial Service at Solosy Funeral Home.
Kiss Deel, Mariah (Kennedy 2012)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Mariah Kiss Deel. Mariah Lynn Deel, 29, passed away on September 12, 2023 in Taylor, Michigan surrounded by family.
She was born on July 11, 1994 at Riverside Hospital in Trenton to Linda Horton (mother) and Joseph Kiss (father). Mariah is survived by her husband, Christopher Deel and son, Grayson Deel; Stepfather Jeff Horton, Siblings: Joe Kiss, Ashley Kiss, and Megan and Dustin Fisher; Nieces and nephews: Emma, and Dustin Fisher, Landon, and Romin Warren. Mariah will always be remembered for her love for animals, radient smile, contagious laugh, inspirational spirit, her motivation, and passion for all things in life, thrive for adventure and her graceful personality. Mariah worked at Ford Motor Company for 12 years, beginning at the age of 17, where she received many promotions, working her way up to Operations Supervisor. Although she worked at Ford, since Mariah was little, her dream job was to become a dental hygienist, a mother, and a wife. Mariah worked a full-time position at Ford while attending a full-time Dental Hygienist program at Wayne County Community College. She completed that dental hygienist program in June of 2021 and became licensed on July 8, 2021. Mariah met the love of her life Christopher and got engaged on May 15, 2022. She bought her first home in Allen Park in June. Mariah and Chris welcomed their first child, a beautiful baby boy Grayson on December 10, 2022, completing all her childhood accomplishments and dreams. In January of 2023, Mariah was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive form of cancer; small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma. Mariah married Christopher on February 14, 2023, at Prestige in Allen Park. Mariah began chemotherapy treatments the following morning. After months of both medical and natural treatment attempts, multiple clinical trials, and second opinions, there was no improvement. Mariah began hospice on Friday, September 8. She passed away peacefully surrounded by family at her mother’s home on Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at 5:35AM.
Maynard, Ronald (Kennedy 1981)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Ronald Maynard. Ronald, Age 59 of Taylor passed September 3, 2023. Loving father of Bailey (Samantha) Maynard and Dylan Maynard. Cherished son of Tommie and Barbara Maynard. Dearest brother of Barbara (Daniel) Frebes and Drexel Maynard. Cremation will take place at The On-Site Crematory located within the Molnar Funeral Homes - Brownstown Chapel.
Matwiejczyk, Daniel (Elementary Teacher)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Daniel H. Matwiejczyk. Daniel Henry Matwiejczyk, age 76, of Ann Arbor, passed away on Sunday, August 27, 2023. Daniel was born in Wyandotte, Michigan to parents Henry and Harriet (Witkowski) Matwiejczyk and raised in Lincoln Park, Michigan alongside his little sister, Kathy. After graduating from Lincoln Park High School, Daniel took classes at a junior college in Port Huron until he was able to transfer his credits to Eastern Michigan University. He completed his bachelor's degree in education at EMU and later received his master's degree from there as well. While attending EMU, Daniel met Marjorie Cohen, who was also studying education. They married in 1971 and settled in Ypsilanti, Michigan to start a family welcoming two daughters, Tobi and Sara. Both Daniel and Marjorie worked at Randall Elementary School in Taylor, Michigan. Daniel spent most of his teaching career working with second grade students and enjoyed working with kids of that age. Daniel was an elementary school teacher in the Taylor school systems for over 30 years. Over the years, Daniel enjoyed dabbling through many different types of hobbies. As a child, he played in various baseball leagues which grew into a deep love for the Detroit Tigers. He enjoyed rooting for them throughout his life. Before the age of the internet, he spent time talking to other folks on HAM radio. These connections were so strong he often received postcards in the mail from various places around the world. Always active, Daniel was an avid runner and often participated in 5k races all over Michigan. He had a deep love for music and had an extensive record collection which he was proud of. Daniel was especially fond of the Beatles! Most recently, Daniel was a trivia genius- he enjoyed participating as well and emceeing games at Atria Park where he lived. Hosting trivia nights and creating questions brought him a lot of joy. He was preceded in death by his wife, Marjorie Matwiejczyk, and his parents, Henry and Harriet Matwiejczyk. Daniel will be deeply missed by his oldest daughter, Tobi Gannon and her husband, Sean; his youngest daughter, Sara Van-Meir; his sister, Kathy Parrish and her husband, Carl; and his nephew, Justin Proctor. Private cremation services have taken place. Please share a memory for the family on the Tribute Wall at www.niefuneralhomes.com.
Karadeema, Thomas (Taylor Center 1982)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Thomas Theodore Karadeema. Thomas, age 59, passed away August 25, 2023. Beloved husband of Debbie for 37 beautiful years. Proud father of Thomas Karadeema Jr. Caring grandpa of Ryleigh, William, and Annabelle. Dear brother of Kevin (Kristi) and Ron (Lisa) Karadeema. Loving uncle and friend to many. Preceded in death by parents Lawrence Sr. and Patricia and brothers Lawrence Jr. and Louis. Tom made his life-long career at Beaumont for 37 dedicated years. He also enjoyed camping with his cherished family. He will be missed by so many. Visitation Thursday, August 31 from 2-8PM with a funeral service at 6PM. All services located at Howe-Peterson Funeral Home, 9800 Telegraph Rd, Taylor MI 48180.
Holt, Timothy (Taylor Center 1971)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends to the family and friends of Timothy Holt. Holt, Timothy Harmon. August 22, 2023. Age 70 of Allen Park. Beloved husband of Pamela. Loving father of Jamie (Dion) Craig, Timothy (Sarah) Holt and Amanda Holt. Dear brother of Vanessa Rempe, Valerie (Kenneth) Junkins and Michelle (Nick) Amato. Dearest grandfather of Dion (Lisa), Madison, Jayden, Landin, Chase and Wyatt. Loving great-grandfather of Scarlett and Dion III. Timothy was preceded in death by his parents, Harmon and Beverly Holt and his siblings, Vicki Mills and David (Kathy) Dewey. The legacy he leaves is one that touched the lives of many. If ever a hand was reached out for help, his hand was already there. The voice of reason, always directing to the rational and most effective solution. Timothy will be deeply missed by family and friends. Visitation Friday, August 25, 2023 from 3:00- 8:00 p.m. at the Taylor Chapel of Voran Funeral Home, 23750 Goddard Road. Funeral service Saturday 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Entombment Michigan Memorial Park Cemetery. Please share memories and/or leave condolences on Timothy’s guestbook at www.voranfuneralhome.com
Johnson Stagg, Susan (Kennedy 1977)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Susan Johnson Staggs. Susan Kay Johnson Staggs, born in North Charleroi, Pennsylvania, on November 25, 1959 and living in Morganton, North Carolina for around thirty years, departed this world on July 19, 2023 at Amorem Hospice to continue her journey to the home that her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has prepared for her. Susan is survived by her husband David Earl Staggs and daughter Amanda Jean Staggs of Morganton NC, her mother Doris M. Johnson and father John Kenneth Johnson of Lake Isabella MI, two sisters Sharon J. Byrd (Randall) and Rachel J. Olson (Leonard), both of Michigan, and their children and grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her grandparents and two uncles.
Susan took classes at two universities in the Detroit area and then at Central Michigan University in Mt. Pleasant. She worked at the family business (a medical transcription service) in Michigan, a medical clinic in Lenoir NC, several other positions as a medical transcriptionist, and more recently as a salesclerk before retiring. Susan was a loving mother and wife, and an incredibly kind, caring, and friendly person, able to make new friends wherever she went with both humans and animals alike. She adored music, played the guitar, piano, and organ, and always had a song in her head ready to share for every situation. Throughout her life Susan has remained faithful to scripture, even against all odds regarding health problems. She was an active member of and played the piano for Riverside Baptist Church in Morganton. She will always be remembered, missed, and loved. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory is assisting the family.
Slaven, Ira (Taylor Center 1960)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Ira Sherman Slaven. Ira passed August 17, 2023. Loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, and friend. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Gayle, their children Joseph (Lisa), Judith (Jeffrey) Lukitsh, Joanna (Len) Suarez, Jayson (Chris), and Jessica (Russ), their grandchildren Tyler, Connor, Abbey, Elizabeth, Elayna, Collin, Madison, and Ashlynn, and great granddaughter Maci, as well as his brother Llyod (Iris). Ira was a lifetime resident of Taylor, MI. He lived a life of service, starting with the United States Air Force. After being discharged, he continued to serve the public as a firefighter for the city of Taylor, later becoming a fire inspector. In his later years, his service continued when he became the oldest member of the City Council ever elected in Taylor’s 55-year history. Ira was, above all other things, a dedicated and loyal Mason Bro. Slaven was a 58-year Mason, raised in 1965 with Bethel #358 in Sault Ste. Marie, transferring to Golden Ark #595 in Taylor near the end of that year.
He served Golden Ark Lodge as secretary for many years before and after his time in the Grand Line and was the lodge's Worshipful Master in 1976. He was elected to the Grand Line in 2001 and served as Grand Master of Michigan in 2007-08. Along with being a passionate 33 rd degree Mason, Ira was also involved with the Shriners, The Order of the Eastern Star, and held the title of Most Wise Master in the Scottish Rite.
There will be an OES service at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 22, with the Masonic Service to follow, at Voran Funeral Home, 23750 Goddard Rd in Taylor. Visitations will be held on Monday, August 21 from 1 - 8 p.m. and Tuesday, August 22 from 2 - 8 p.m. at Voran Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, August 23, 11:00 a.m. at Gilead Baptist Church, 12501 Telegraph Rd in Taylor.
Cartwright, Paul (Taylor Center 1965)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Paul Cartwright. Paul Cartwright, Jr., age 76, long time Belleville, MI, resident, passed away Monday, August 7, 2023, at his home. He passed away under hospice care surrounded by his family. Paul was born April 10, 1947, in Wyandotte, MI, son of Paul Cartwright, Sr. and Velma May (Ferns) Cartwright. Paul graduated from Taylor Center High School, class of 1965. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps where he was awarded the Purple Heart. Paul retired from Ford Motor Company after 37.5 years as a railroad conductor. While working at Ford Motor Company Paul also served on the Van Buren Police Department for 10 years. Paul liked to keep busy and loved his community, so it was a natural fit that he became a member of our David C. Brown Funeral Home team. Paul retired after 10+ years as our hearse driver and greeter. Paul enjoyed camping, snowmobiling, bowling, golfing, and shooting at the gun range. He also loved music, dancing, and playing the drums. Some might say he could play “wipe out” better than the Surfaris did! Paul was a very loyal, dedicated, stubborn, loving man and will be fondly remembered by everyone he knew.
Paul is survived by his devoted wife of 42 years, Debra Lee (Herkimer) Cartwright, daughter Amy (Brian) Cartwright of Ortonville, MI, son Kiel (Ashley) Cartwright of Belleville, MI, 7 grandchildren: John Paul, Skyler, Dakota, Easton, Jimmy, Makayla, and Kaiden; one great-grandson Alec, brother Tom (Linda) Cartwright of Buckley, MI, two sisters: Candie Cartwright of Brownstown, MI, and Pam Cartwright of Taylor, MI; also numerous nieces, nephews, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Paul Sr. and Velma Cartwright, brothers: Mike and Larry Cartwright; also, his son, James Brian Cartwright on September 17, 2022. A backyard celebration of life will be held from 12-5 PM Sunday, August 20, 2023, with Military Honors at 2:00 PM at his home. Please contact Kiel Cartwright at 734-752-2995 for the address. Interment will be in Hillside Cemetery, Belleville, MI, with his son Jim.
In lieu of flowers Memorial contributions may be made to the Fisher House and would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for keeping Paul and his family in your thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
Storm, Monica “Mona” (Kennedy 1982)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Monica Storm. Monica “Mona”, of Barrington, Michigan, passed away Thursday July 31st, 2023, at the age of 58. Mona was born the daughter of Siegfried and Renate Storm in Dearborn, Michigan, on September 18, 1964. She graduated from Taylor High School, class of 1982. She studied court reporting at Macomb Community College and worked for Luzod and as a freelance court reporter for many years. She also taught part-time at Macomb Community College. Mona was the proud mother of her daughter, Brianna. Mona is survived by her daughter Brianna (Matthew Johnston) Clegg; her parents, Siegfried and Renate; her sister Rebecca (Douglas Medlen) Storm-Medlen; her brother Rudi (Stephanie) Storm; her nephews Brandon and Donovan. She was predeceased by her aunt and uncle, Bruni and Tony Burakouskas, and her grandparents, Anna and Anthony Wojotuniecki. "Mona loved the outdoor; jet-skiing, kayaking, canoeing and snow skiing were a joy to her. She treasured making memories with the people she loved. She was adventurous and went out of her way to have amazing experiences that she shared with her friends and family. She enjoyed music and was a talented drum player. She was a social butterfly and had an enormous heart, she cared for animals and her loved ones deeply. Mona was incredibly tough, smart and hard working." Mona’s family will welcome all to a visitation on Sunday August 6th, 2023 from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. when a time of sharing memories will be held. Visitation and service will be held at Pixley Funeral Home, located at 3530 Auburn Road, in downtown Auburn Hills, Michigan. Memorial contributions may be made in Mona’s honor to the National Alliance on Mental Health online at www.nami.org or by envelope at Pixley Funeral Home.
Bechtol, Roger (Taylor Center 1958, Coach, Teacher)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Roger Bechtol. Roger “Coach”, was born on July 5, 1939 in Hillsdale, Michigan to Harry and Maxine (nee. Brigle) Bechtol. Roger, who reside in Taylor Michigan, passed away on July 25, 2023 at the age of 84. Roger is the beloved husband of Carolyn. Loving father of David (Brenda) Bechtol and Doreen (John Scheinder) Bechtol. Dear brother of the late Patricia Sissom and the late Danny Bechtol. Dearest papa of Jordan, Joslyn, and Ollie. Roger will be deeply missed by family and friends. Visitation Friday, July 28, 2023 from 2:00- 8:00 p.m. at the Taylor Chapel of Voran Funeral Home, 23750 Goddard Road. (313) 291-1800. Funeral services for Roger will be that evening starting at 6:00 p.m. from the funeral home. Entombment Michigan Memorial Park Cemetery. Donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Please share memories and/or leave condolences on Roger’s tribute wall on his guestbook.
Armes, Larry (Taylor Center 1987)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Larry Armes. Larry, age 52 of Wyandotte passed away October 15, 2021. Beloved husband of Athina “Tina” Armes of 29 years. Loving father of Mary Armes and Allison Armes. Dearest son of Darrel and the late Yelondia “Jane” Armes. Dear brother of Margaret (Robert “Bradley”) Ambrose. Also survived by father-in-law Thomas Rebel. Preceded in death by mother-in-law Barbara Rebel. Memorial contributions are appreciated to the family for funeral expenses. Cremation will take place at The On-Site Crematory located within the Molnar Funeral Homes - Brownstown Chapel.
Cline, John Clifford (Taylor Center 1975)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of John Clifford Cline. John passed away on July 1, 2023, at the age of 66 after a brief illness while surrounded by loved ones. Born in Dearborn, Michigan, John was the fifth of the twelve children blessed to loving parents Lorne and Mary Cline. John was raised in Taylor, Michigan and graduated from Taylor Center High in 1975. He attended Washtenaw Community College, earning an associate’s degree of technology and MoTech Automotive Education Center where he earned a certificate of Automotive Mechanics. John worked as a program manager and engineer at General Motors, retiring in 2019. A devout Catholic, John attended services at many different parishes over the years, including St. Athanasius in Harrison, Michigan, where he met his wife Judith (Smith/Adams). They married in December 2000. In marriage, John became a father to four daughters, Katrina (Jason) Green, Corinna (Scott) Drozdowski, Audrey Adams Washington and Victoria (Nick) Perry, and eventually the grandfather to seven grandchildren: Tyler, Andrew, Gianna, Lilyanna, Dylan, Jackson and Elijah. He was a doting grandfather and taught them to fish, play board games, read books, and enjoyed giving the kids tractor rides. John was an outdoor enthusiast with many hobbies including fishing, hunting, woodworking, toy making and helping others fix up their vehicles. He also enjoyed time with family and friends and making memories with the grandkids. He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus and regularly volunteered his time. A committed blood donor with the American Red Cross, John donated 56 pints of blood throughout his lifetime. John was blessed with a generous heart and was always willing to lend a hand to those in need. Preceded in death by his father Lorne Timothy Cline and siblings Joan, Patricia and Timothy. John is survived by his wife Judith, his mother Mary, many other siblings and their children and grandchildren. Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, July 8, 2023, at 11:00 AM at the St. Brigid of Kildare Catholic Church, 207 Ashman St., Midland, MI 48640. Family will greet guests starting at 10:00 AM at the church. Arrangements entrusted to Ware Smith Woolever Funeral Home of Midland. In lieu of flowers, John requested that donations be made to Food for the Poor, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or Woodland Hospice House of Mount Pleasant, Michigan.