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Funeral Services:

Alan Carl Durham, 87, of Charlotte, a man whose life was defined by quiet strength, deep faith, and unwavering love for his family, died April 13, 2026. Alan was born on October 22, 1938, in Durand, Michigan to Charles and Margaret (Reick) Durham. Alan graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1956.

In 1959, Alan married the love of his life, Mary Jane, whose father became a valued mentor to him in the skilled trades. He began his career at Allied Products in Hillsdale, Michigan, and later continued his work in skilled trades with General Motors

Above all, Alan was a devoted husband and an extraordinary father. Together with his wife, he opened his heart and home in a remarkable way – serving as foster parents to 25 children, while also raising their two beloved children. To each child who entered his life, Alan offered stability, guidance, patience, and unconditional love. His family will miss hearing his familiar and heartfelt closing words, “Thanks for callin’,” a simple phrase that meant so much and now holds even greater meaning.

Alan’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He loved the Lord deeply and encouraged those around him to seek comfort and strength in prayer. His quiet example spoke volumes – he lived his beliefs daily, never seeking recognition, never complaining, and always choosing grace. He had a passion for history and learning. He could often be found watching the History Channel, absorbing stories of the past with genuine curiosity and enthusiasm. This love extended to his travels, as he enjoyed visiting presidential homes, historical landmarks, and meaningful places that connected him to the nation’s heritage. Alan also cherished time spent traveling, especially his trips to Florida, where he found rest, joy, and special memories with loved ones.

Alan is survived by his children, Robert (Billie Jo) Durham and Cathy Reed; foster children, Ryan and Tanisha (Dre) Jefferson; brother, Robert Durham; grandchildren, Cody Durham, Chad (Nicolette) Durham, Korin Steen, Kayla Dysard, Martina and Corey Biddinger, Mary (fiancé, Ben Sawade) Reed; and great-grandchildren, Cameron, Paiden, Madisyn, Dalton, Leah, Bailey, Parker, Conner, Kylar, Tucker, Morgan, Tanner, Sheppard. He was predeceased by his wife, Mary Jane; brothers Charles and Sam Durham; and sisters, Alice Richards and Helen Robins.

Friends are encouraged to support Alan’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Thursday, April 16 from 6 to 8 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Charlotte. Funeral services were Friday, April 17 at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Charlotte with Pastor Pete Kroll officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to First Baptist Church and Helping Hands. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Mitchell Carl Simons of Eaton Rapids passed away April 4, 2026, at the age of 76. Mitchell was born in Big Rapids, Michigan, August 2, 1949, to Carl and Ardena (Nelson) Simons. He was a graduate of Leslie High School Class of 1969. Mitchell worked and retired from Ranch Life Plastics. He served with the Army Reserves and the National Guard for 20 years earning the National Defense Service Medal as a sharpshooter and marksman.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, watching NASCAR races, gardening, canning, searching for treasures with his metal detector, was an avid MSU Spartan fan and horseshoe player. He will be remembered for his kind spirit, and as a handyman, helping others when they needed it.

Mitchell is survived by his wife, Evelyn Simons; children, Michael Simons of Eaton Rapids, Heather Allen of Eaton Rapids, William Smith of Lansing; grandchildren, Mariah Simons, Alexandra Ringo, William Simons, Owen Simons, Halle Simons, Lindsay Lampson, Tayler (Steven) Allen, Landon (Sydney) Allen, Ciara (Brett) Chamberlain, Autumn Doxtader; 11 great grandchildren; brothers, Charles Simons, Daniel Carl Simons; sisters, Jackie Howe and Shirley Mueller, as well as many nieces and nephews He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Richard, John and Jim Simons; nephews, Mark Mueller and Johnathan Simons and brother in laws, Alex Mueller and Clair Howe.

Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Saturday April 11, 2026, at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel, 518 S. Main St. Eaton Rapids. Visitation will take place before the service from noon to 1p.m. Interment will be held in Rosehill Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1755 Abbey Rd, East Lansing, MI 48823. Please visit our website to place online condolences, www.millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

Thomas Marion Opoka of Eaton Rapids, Michigan, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, April 6, 2026, at the age of 85.

Tom was born on October 31, 1940, in Hamtramck, Michigan, to Joseph and Florence (Mengel) Opoka. He was raised in Hamtramck and graduated from Pershing High School. Following graduation, Tom proudly served his country in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany. After his honorable discharge, he returned to Detroit and attended the University of Detroit, where he earned his bachelor’s degree.

On May 18, 1973, Tom married the love of his life, Carol Alsobrooks.  In 1977, Tom and Carol moved their family out of the Detroit area to Eaton Rapids where they bought a small farm.  Together, they built a life centered on faith and family, while raising their two daughters.

Tom dedicated many years of service to the State of Michigan, working as a mobile home auditor until his retirement in 2002. In retirement, he and Carol cherished spending their winters in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Tom was a devoted member of St. Peter Catholic Church in Eaton Rapids for many years.

He had a deep love for sports, especially cheering on the Michigan Wolverines and Detroit’s professional teams. Tom also enjoyed his monthly casino outings with Carol. Above all, he will be remembered for his warm personality, his love for family, and his remarkable ability to tell a great story.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Andrew Opoka; and his sister, Laura Ostrowski.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 52 years, Carol; his daughters, Kelly (Terry) Vandenbrink and Leanne (Damon) Lange; his grandchildren, Madison Lange, Makenna Lange, Kaitlyn Vandenbrink, and Nicholas Vandenbrink; and his great-granddaughter, Genevieve Vandenbrink. He is also survived by many extended family members and dear friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 17, 2026, at St. Peter Catholic Church. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Interment will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery following the Mass at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in Tom’s memory.

To share memories or leave online condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.

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Funeral Services:

Marcia Faye Ditchie of Eaton Rapids passed away March 18, 2026, at the age of 76. Marcia was born on October 2, 1949, in Lansing, Michigan, the daughter of Peter and Marian (Crawford) Ditchie. She loved to garden and grow flowers. Marcia played softball for many years. She was employed at State Farm as a photographer for 17 years and also the Art Council in Lansing for 15 years.

Marcia is survived by her cousin, Shelley Estela of Fullerton, California; one nephew and three nieces- Brian, Kristina, Teresa, and Kathleen; neighborhood family, Jackie Coontz, Dan (MJ), Rick (Heather) Goerge, Rie and Bug Goerge of Eaton Rapids. She was preceded in death by her parents.

A Celebration of Life is planned for 11 a.m. on May 23, 2026, at the Howe Memorial Park Pavillion, 315 W. Knight Street, Eaton Rapids, MI 48827. Arrangements were entrusted to the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel in Eaton Rapids. To leave condolences for the family, visit our website www.millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

Harry Arthur Smith, 93, of Charlotte, a loving father and grandfather with a responsible and hardworking nature, died peacefully on April 4, 2026, in Charlotte.  Harry was born June 22, 1932, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Donald M. and Thelma I. (Parks) Smith. Harry left school in the 10th grade to help run the family farm when his father lost an arm in an accident. At 19 years old, Harry answered the call to serve his country, beginning military duty in April of 1952. He completed seven years of honorable service in the United States Navy, holding the rank of Fireman (FN) during the Korean War and concluding his service in 1960.

Following his military discharge, Harry built a 30-year long career at Oldsmobile, eventually enjoying a well-earned retirement. Co-workers and friends remember his steady dedication and reliable spirit.

Harry was an avid golfer who could always find happiness on the fairway. Whether lining up a putt or teeing off on the back-nine, Harry showed us that patience and persistence win the quiet victories that matter most. Harry was part of the Monday night men’s golf league, with long-time friend Frank Palacios, until just last year. Golf gave Harry immense joy, but family gave him purpose. He loved his children and grandchildren dearly, and moments spent with family were among his most cherished memories.

Harry is survived by his sons, Del (Suzanne) Smith, Dayton (Joan) Smith, and Dane Smith; daughter, Kelly (Mike) Wicker; grandchildren, Savannah (Andrew) Marino, Madison Smith, Blake Smith, Marcus Olsen, Kayla Bruce, Sara Smith, Trevor Smith, Danielle Smith, Joshua (Allison) Wicker, Nichole Wicker, Natalie (Joey) Neihaus, Stephanie (James) Campbell, and Logan Blair; great-grandchildren, Levi Smith, Taytum Smith, Riley Olsen, Alex Olsen, Angelo Olsen, James Blair, Leah Morris, McKenzie Blair, Allie Blair, Logan Blair Jr., Brooklyn Wicker, Grayson Wicker, Hudson Lee, Austin Wicker, Skyler Marie Freidinger, Logan Freidinger, Micah Neihaus, and Evie Rose Neihaus.  He was predeceased by his wife, Elaine Smith; parents; grandson, Ian Smith; and granddaughter, Angie Blair.

Friends are encouraged to support Harry’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Friday, April 10, 2026, from 2 to 4 p.m. Funeral services were Friday, April 10 at 4 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Laura Cooper officiating. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Harry’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Dawn Michelle Bartlett, 48, of Charlotte, a loving wife, mother and friend, died on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026, in Lansing after a brief illness. Dawn was born on May 14, 1977, in Charlotte, where she graduated before attending Ferris State for a few semesters.

Dawn had a deep love for children and devoted much of her life to caring for them. She ran her own licensed home daycare where she nurtured and cared for countless kids, treating each one as her own. She extended that same compassion to St. Mary Catholic School, where she worked in the lunchroom, not only providing meals to students but blessing them with many meaningful memories as well. She also worked several years for Allstate in downtown Charlotte.

Dawn was a devoted Girl Scout leader, serving for many years as her daughter was growing up through the program. In her spare time, Dawn found joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially caring for her garden and crafting, where she expressed her creativity and caring nature. Dawn was happiest when surrounded by her family and loved spending time at the beach. Especially on Sanibel Island in Florida, always appreciating the beauty of the world around her.

Dawn is survived by her husband of 25 years, Shane Bartlett, and their children, Makkena (Shane DeJonge) Bartlett, Cameron (Jersey Gaedert) Bartlett, Aubrie Bartlett and Briley Bartlett. Friends are encouraged to support Dawn’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A Celebration of Life is being planned for a later date. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the American Red Cross. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.

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Funeral Services:

Linda Whiting age 64 of Dimondale, Michigan, passed away on April 4, 2026 at University Hospital, Ann Arbor with her family by her side. Linda died as a result of complications from a bone marrow transplant she received on December 9, 2025.

She is survived by her step-father Ken Burns, sister Gail Whiting (Larry Miesner), sister Carol Wood, brother Steve Whiting, brother David Whiting (Cheryl), nephew Dustin Baughman (Jasmine Simone), niece Katie Jo Miller (Joe), great-nephew Maverick Baughman, great-niece Brynleigh Baughman, and her kitties Holly and Abby.  She was proceeded in death by her father Gary Whiting, mother Martha Burns, nephew Jeremy Wood, and sister-in-law Dee Whiting.

Linda was proud of her sobriety, having been sober for 17+ years.

She was witty, funny, self-sufficient, generous, hard-working and very resourceful. She was always there to lend a helping hand to her family. She helped with demolition, yard work, gardening, mowing, and home and machinery repairs. Her family could always count on her.   

Linda loved to fish and took pride in her vegetable and flower gardens. She enjoyed “her” birds and spoiled them with homemade suet. She loved rock-hounding trips to Lake Michigan and Lake Superior and had fun traveling on the two-tracks to the beaches in the Upper Peninsula. She was a morel mushroom hunter extraordinaire and never gave up her secret mushroom hunting spots. Linda had a soft-spot for animals. She had many pets during her lifetime and once “rescued” a dog she named Lucky. She thought he would have a better life with her, and she did.  In her younger days she was a hell of a softball player showing off her “side-arm” while playing the infield. She could also throw a mean spiral.

She was fortunate to live across the street from her great-nephew and great-niece, Maverick and Brynleigh. She loved them with all her heart and enjoyed playing with them, fishing with them behind their house, and teaching and helping them with little projects. 

Linda leaves a big void in the hearts of her family and will be terribly missed.

The family would like to thank friends and family for their thoughts, prayers, and kind words about Linda while she was hospitalized.

A Celebration of Life will be held early summer when the weather warms up, and it can be held outside. For those desiring, the family suggest memorial contributions be made to Saved By Zade, 130 South Main St., PO Box 100, Leslie, MI 49251. The family has entrusted arrangements to the Mills Funeral Home, Peters & Murray Chapel, Grand Ledge. Online condolences may be placed at www.millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

David Vern Coats of Eaton Rapids was surrounded by his loving family and peacefully went home to be with the Lord on March 31, 2026, at the age of 75. Dave was born in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, April 2, 1950, the son of Vern and Dorothy (Malburg) Coats. He graduated from Eaton Rapids High School in 1968. Dave then joined the Michigan National Guard for six years. He attended Ferris State University graduating with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Dave became the manager at High Fields in 1983 and was especially proud of his many perfect audits. He retired after 30 years of service. Dave was an active, life-long member of St. Peter Catholic Church serving with the Knights of Columbus Counsel 6534, was a 4th Degree Knight and acted as treasurer and financial secretary. He helped with roadside pick-ups; tootsie roll drives and pancake breakfasts. Dave enjoyed playing golf, working in his yard, hosting the 4th of July and Memorial Day picnics at his home, teaching the next generation to hunt and fish and will be remembered for sending out birthday cards every year. He was a kind, compassionate, gentle man that dedicated his life to his faith, church, family and friends leading by example and will forever leave memories in our hearts.

Dave is survived by his loving wife, Reva Coats; children, Katie (Dustin) Edgington and Michael (Jackie Kelley) Upchurch; grandchildren, Dustin Edgington II, Tyler (Lexie) McCarrick, Ashley Edgington, and Mikayla Edgington; seven great grandchildren; sister, Arlene Davidson; brother, James (Pixie) Coats; niece and nephews, Eric (Julie) Davidson, Heather (Marty) Williamson, Todd (Renae) Davidson, Cade (Laura) Coats, Michael (Andrea) Coats, and Brandon (Courtney) Coats; several great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers-in-law, Linton Davidson and Scott Cunningham.

Funeral services were at 11 a.m. Tuesday April 7, 2026, at St. Peter Catholic Church, 515 E. Knight St. Eaton Rapids. Visitation took place on Monday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at the Mills Funeral Home, Shelly-Odell Chapel. A rosary was prayed at 7:30 p.m., followed by a 4th Degree Chalice Ceremony. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Vincent de Paul Charities. Interment will take place in Clarence Twp. Cemetery. To leave online condolences for the family, please visit our website, www.millsfuneral.com.

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Funeral Services:

Charles A.G. “AG” Twitchell, age 89, of Charlotte, died on March 31, 2026. He was born on June 16, 1936, the son of Ford Murray Twitchell and Enid Geisenhaver Twitchell.

AG was the quintessential businessman whose career spanned decades and left a lasting mark on the Charlotte community. He began his professional life selling cars at Fowler’s Chevrolet, later moving into insurance sales, and ultimately finding his true calling in real estate. As the owner of his own real estate company for more than 40 years. AG helped hundreds of families find their homes and built a reputation rooted in integrity, dedication, and an unwavering work ethic.

He ran his business alongside the love of his life, his wife Linda Mary Steward Twitchell, to whom he was married for more than 55 years. Linda preceded him in death, and AG often credited her as both his greatest partner and greatest support.

AG was a devoted supporter of Potterville athletics and community life. A Potterville graduate himself, his four children also graduated from Potterville. He spent countless years cheering on his children and grandchildren at sporting events and was a true Potterville Viking. He was honored as the oldest living Potterville alumnus in attendance at the last year’s alumni banquet.

AG and Linda shared a love of golf and casino trips, particularly traveling to Las Vegas. One of AG’s favorite memories was driving their motor home across the country along Route 66, a trip he often described as one of his most cherished adventures. He was an avid fan of MSU sports, enjoying hunting in his early years and had a love of cars.

AG was actively engaged in civic service and community leadership. He was a longtime member of the Charlotte Kiwanis Club, a member and recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from the Charlotte Jaycees and served as Past President of the Eaton Intermediate School District, the Tri-County board of Realtors, and the Charlotte Kiwanis Club. In recognition of his dedication to real estate, he was honored as Michigan Association of REALTORS Realtor of the Year in 1974 and 1979.

AG is survived by his daughters, Candy (John) Vertalka of Dewitt, Carrie (Kent) McConnell of Charlotte, his son, Chris (Sharon) Twitchell of Lansing and Connie Twitchell Dueweke of Virginia; 12 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; one great-great granddaughter; and brothers and sisters-in-law. He was preceded in death by his wife Linda; parents Ford and Enid; sister Mary Jo Twitchell Gorsuch; and granddaughter Elizabeth “Betsy” Lowe.

Friends are encouraged to support AG’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Monday, April 6, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. Funeral services were Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Laura Cooper officiating. Interment will take place at Dimondale Cemetery in Dimondale, Michigan. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on AG’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smartphone). If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Potterville Masonic Lodge, 4925 Royston Rd, Potterville, MI 48876. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.