Mr. Richard Allen Howe 
Mr. Richard Allen Howe, 71 of Gaylord died Tuesday, August 15, 2000 at Otsego Memorial Hospital. Mr. Howe was born in Charlevoix on March 3, 1929 and moved to Gaylord in 1975 from Royal Oak. Mr. Howe was a retired electrician and in 1976 purchased Howe's General Store in Vanderbilt. He loved animals and enjoyed working on his "projects". He served in the United States 5th Air Force during World War II in the Pacific Theatre. On March 11, 1949 in Ferndale, Michigan he married the former Patricia Mae Burkart, who survives. Also surviving are one son, Ronny (Audrey) Howe of Sarasota, FL, 10 grandchildren; Robert, Ryan, Amy, Nicholas, Beau, Sonny, Carly, Ronny, Rex and Rossi. Mr. Howe was preceded in death by his sons Rick and Randy and his brother Donald Lowing. FUNERAL SERVICES were held on Saturday, August 19, 2000 at 2:00 PM from the Nelson Funeral Home, Rev. Joe Lowing officiating. Burial took place in Fairview Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Northern Lights Christian Fellowship, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Stanley S. Styles 
Mr. Stanley S. Styles, 79 of Gaylord died Monday, August 14, 2000 at Pine River Health Care in St. Louis, Michigan. Mr. Styles was born February 4, 1921 in Waterloo, Iowa. He was raised in Pleasant Lake and lived in the Gaylord area since 1938. Mr. Styles had been a real estate developer and had owned Styles Real Estate and Styles Investment Company. He was a veteran and a member of the Elks. In 1950 in Manistique, he married the former Helen Merry, who survives. Also surviving are two sons, Greg Styles and Doug Styles, both of Florida, one daughter, Dyann Otero of Green Bay, WI, 10 grandchildren, and one sister, Jane "Pat" Galvin of Traverse City. MEMORIAL SERVICES were held on Saturday, August 19, 2000, at 11:00 AM from the Nelson Funeral Home. Burial took place in Fairview Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Michigan. 

Mrs. Helen Oley 
Mrs. Helen Oley, 75 of Gaylord died Sunday, August 13, 2000 at her home. Mrs. Oley was born in Detroit on January 26, 1925 and moved to Gaylord in 1978 from Pontiac. She was a member of St. Mary Cathedral parish. Mrs. Oley was preceded in death by her husband, George on April 28, 1996. She was also preceded in death by her sister-in-law, Mary Chala. She is survived by one cousin, Betty Parsley of Pontiac, two sisters-in-law, Terry Rypien and Marge Pettoello, both of Spokane, Washington, and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. FUNERAL SERVICES were held on Thursday, August 17, 2000, at 11:00 AM from St. Mary Cathedral, Rev. John McCracken, officiating. Burial took place in Fairview Cemetery in Gaylord. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Michigan or to the American Cancer Society through the Nelson Funeral home. 

Mrs. Vivian D. Weiss 
Mrs. Vivian D. Weiss, age 82 of Clarkston died Tuesday August 8, 2000 at Crittenton Hospital . She was born in Gaylord, March 20, 1918 where she resided until she was 22 years old. Vivian moved to Cheboygan and lived there from 1940 until approximately 1964. She then moved to East Lansing, where she worked for the Michigan State Police Department in Lansing as a bookkeeper for almost 20 years and retired from there. Vivian moved to Traverse City upon retirement and lived there until 1992. She has been residing in Clarkston since 1992. She loved oil painting, gardening and her cats. Mrs. Vivian Weiss is survived by; her sister Beverly Baumgras of Waterford; her brother Leland (Dorothy) Krauss of Fowler; grandchildren Nicole (Kevin) Delaney of Hawaii and Tonya Molag of Grand Rapids; great-grandchildren Chloe, Tyler, Taryn and Tes Vivian. She was preceded in death by her Son Lewis Weiss in 1991. GRAVESIDE SERVICES will be held for Mrs. Weiss at the Fairview Cemetery in Gaylord Saturday, Aug. 12 at 1PM. Rev. John Naile officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the Leukemia Society of Michigan, through the Nelson Funeral Home, 135 N. Center, Gaylord, MI 49735. 

Mrs. Christie A. Amthor 
Mrs. Christie A. Amthor, 64 of Gaylord died Sunday, August 6, 2000 at her home. Born in Charlton Township on June 17, 1936 she had been a lifetime resident of the Gaylord area. Mrs. Amthor was a member of St. Mary Cathedral parish. She loved her kids and enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. Mrs. Amthor is survived by; her husband Jerry; four children, Jerry Jr. (Shirley) Amthor of Gaylord, Cindy (Tom) Corby of Gaylord, Time (Lisa) Amthr of Lansing, and Todd (Lisa) of Saginaw. She is also survived by nine grandchildren; Jaime, Nikki, Matthew, Jason, Zach, Angela, Bradley, Meghan and Lynsey, two great-grandchildren; Zoey & Katelin; 1 sister and 4 brothers; Elaine (Joe) Schmidt of Traverse City, Jim (Alice) Larsen of Wisconsin, Bob (Maggie) Larsen of Gaylord, Terry (Nancy) Larsen of Gaylord, Glen (Joan) Larsen of Gaylord; and one sister-in-law; Barb Larsen of California. Mrs. Amthor was preceded in death by her grandchildren, Brandon and Brandie and three brothers; Alfred Jr., Dave, and Norm. FUNERAL SERVICES will be held on Wednesday, August 9, 2000 at 11:00 AM from St. Mary Cathedral, Rev. John McCracken, officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery in Gaylord. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Michigan or to the American Cancer Society, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Roger A. Howard 
Mr. Roger A. Howard, 57 of Gaylord died Tuesday, August 1, 2000 at Otsego Memorial Hospital. Mr. Howard was born in Detroit on November 23, 1942 and was raised in Highland. He graduated from Milford High School and later enlisted in the United States Army. After the service he attended Lawrence Institute of Technology and graduated in 1971, with honors, as an electrical engineer. In the late 1960's he purchased property and began spending time in the Gaylord area. Mr. Howard was currently employed with K-Byte as an engineer. He was an avid sportsman and loved aviation. Mr. Howard is survived by; his fiancé, Sharon Fuller of Gaylord; his son, Shawn (Monica) Howard of Atlanta, GA; his mother, Mary Ann Howard of Byron; 2 grandchildren, Amanda & Marissa; his brother, Ronald Howard of Byron; and his sister, Janet Wolf of Linden. FUNERAL SERVICES were held on Thursday, August 3, 2000 at 4:00 PM, from the Nelson Funeral Home, Rev. John Naile, officiating. Memorial contributions are appreciated to our veterans organizations in Gaylord, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Susanne A. Finnerty 
Susanne A. Finnerty, 16 of Elmira died Sunday, July 30, 2000 due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Susanne was born May 30, 1984 in Petoskey. She was a 10th grade student at Gaylord High School. She loved to sing and write poetry. Susanne is survived by her mother and step-father, Susan & Dennis Kucharek of Elmira, 11 brothers & sisters: Cinnamon Finnerty of Cadillac, Spencer, Ben, Nathan, Adam, & Angela Finnerty all of Gaylord, Erik & Derek Kucharek of Elmira, Misty, Jenni & Amanda Kucharek all of Gaylord. She is also survived by her grandmother, Barb Johns of Cadillac, 3 nephews, Blake, Dylan & Dakota, and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. She was preceded in death by her father, Leroy Finnerty in 1997. She was also preceded in death by her sister Susan J. Finnerty and her grandfather Kent Johns. FUNERAL SERVICES were held on Thursday, August 3, 2000 at 1:00 PM from the First United Methodist Church, Rev. Scott Los, officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the Susanne Finnerty Memorial Fund, through the Nelson Funeral Home.

Jason L. Mead 
Jason L. Mead, 21 of Gaylord died Sunday, July 30, 2000 in Big Rapids due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Jason was born September 15, 1978 in Reed City and was raised in the Gaylord area. He was a 1997 graduate of Gaylord High School and was currently attending Ferris State University majoring in music industry management. He was active in track, football, basketball, hockey, and was a member of the lacrosse team at FSU. He was a member of the Gaylord Evangelical Free Church youth group and the TLFC group. Jason was also a member of a band in both Gaylord and Big Rapids. He is survived by; his parents, Dr. Ronald & Lori Mead of Gaylord; his sister, Kristin of Gaylord; paternal grandparents Don & Alberta Mead of Ovid; maternal grandparents Walt & Marilyn Miller of Elsie; maternal great-grandmother Lila Miller of Ashley; aunts & uncles, Brenda (Tim) Miller Quine of Banister, Carrie Hire of Banister, Scott (Jane) Miller of Elsie, Ray Mead of Lansing, and Wayne Mead of Punta Gorda, FL. FUNERAL SERVICES were held on Wednesday, August 2, 2000 at 1:00 PM from the Gaylord Evangelical Free Church, Rev. James Mathis, officiating. Burial took place in Fairview Cemetery in Gaylord. Memorial contributions may be made to the Gaylord Evangelical Free Church or to a music scholarship for GHS in memory of Jason Mead, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Janette R. Lukas 
Janette R. Lukas, 13, died Saturday, July 29, 2000 at Otsego Memorial Hospital from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Born in Port Huron on January 21, 1987, she was an 8th grade student at the Gaylord Middle School. Her friends were her circle of fun. Janette is survived by; her parents, Pamela Lukas of Gaylord & William Pelton of Barryton; 2 brothers, Jacob Lukas of Gaylord, & Owen Pelton of Barryton; maternal grandmother, Marlene Lukas of Vanderbilt; special uncle, Douglas Lukas of Algonac; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. FUNERAL SERVICES were held on Tuesday, August 1, 2000 at 11:00 AM from the First United Methodist Church in Gaylord, Rev. Daniel McVey officiating. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Janette Lukas Memorial Fund through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Thurman W. Thompson 
Mr. Thurman W. Thompson, 82 of Burbank, CA, died Saturday, July 29, 2000 in California. Mr. Thompson was born in Detroit on March 14, 1918 and has lived in California since 1945. In 1975 he retired from McDonald Douglas Aircraft. In 1946 in Las Vegas, Nevada he married the former Mary Estelle Smith. She preceded him in death in 1978. Mr. Thompson is survived by his children; Carol Ann Stephenson of Canyon Country, CA; Mary Louise Haralson of La Quinta, CA; Thomas Richard Thompson of Hesperia, CA; 6 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; and one sister, Bernice Thompson of Gaylord. FUNERAL SERVICES were held on Tuesday, August 8, 2000 at 12:00 PM from the Nelson Funeral Home, Rev. John Naile, officiating. Burial took place in Fairview Cemetery in Gaylord. A funeral luncheon followed at the First United Methodist Church. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Methodist Church of Burbank, CA, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Roger Tykoski 
Roger L. Tykoski, 52 of Wolverine, died Friday, July 28, 2000 at Otsego memorial Hospital in Gaylord. Born in Detroit on October 30, 1947, he was a resident of Wolverine where he owned Wolverine Landscape. He enjoyed camping, fishing and family events. Roger is survived by; his mother, Christine Tykoski of Gaylord; his son, Roger Tykoski of Gaylord; his daughter, Connie (Eddie) Kile of Novi; one granddaughter, Shelby Kile; brothers & sisters, Jim (Vickie) Tykoski of Allegan, Leona (Jim) Haworth of Vanderbilt, Chris (Bob) Zamzow of Gaylord, Cindy (Rick) Webber of Ridgecrest, CA, Loretta (Jim) Beavers of Duncan, OK, Leo (Hazel) Tykoski of Gaylord, Jeanette Reader of Petoskey, Andrew (Vera) Tykoski of Johannesburg Art (Velta) Tykoski of Johannesburg; companion, Pam Conklin and many nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Leo Tykoski. FUNERAL SERVICES were held on Tuesday, August 1, 2000 at 1:00 PM from the Nelson Funeral Home, Rev. John McCracken officiating. Burial took place in Resurrection Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Roger Tykoski Memorial Fund through the Nelson Funeral Home, 135 N. Center, Gaylord, MI 49735. 

Mrs. Margaret I.Walker 
Mrs. Margaret I. Walker, age 91, of Gaylord died Thursday, July 27, 2000 at her home in Gaylord. She was born September 11, 1908 in Hillman. She was a school teacher in Hillman before marrying her husband Clyde Walker in June of 1934. She and her husband lived in the Detroit area for many years and moved to Onaway after retirement. Mrs. Walker has resided in Gaylord for the past 13 years. She was preceded in death by her husband Clyde October 4, 1989. Mrs. Walker is survived by; her daughter, Sharon Delozier of Sterling Heights; her sons, James "Mickey" Walker of Gaylord, David (Gloria) Walker of Gaylord; 5 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. FUNERAL SERVICES were held on Saturday, July 29 at 11 AM from St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Gaylord. Rev. Pete Clapp officiating. Burial took place in Fairview Cemetery in Gaylord. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Hillman Calvary Episcopal Church or to the St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Gaylord, through the Nelson Funeral Home, 135 N. Center, Gaylord, MI 49735 

Mrs. Margaret A. Chouinard 
Mrs. Margaret A. Chouinard, 81 of Gaylord died Tuesday, July 25, 2000 at her home. Mrs. Chouinard was born April 8, 1919 in Detroit and was raised in the Detroit area. In 1972 she and her family moved to Gaylord. She was a member of St. Mary Cathedral parish and while living in Detroit, was a member of the Christian Mothers. She had volunteered as a Boy Scout den mother and was a Girl Scout mother. She was the "heart and soul" of her family. Mrs. Chouinard is survived by her husband of 58 years, George, her children: Margaret Matti of Detroit, Thomas Chouinard of West Branch, Raymond Chouinard of Stockbridge, George Chouinard, Jr. of Vanderbilt, Suzanne DeLyon of Petoskey, 23 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents John and Johanna Gostomski and 9 brothers. FUNERAL SERVICES were held on Friday, July 28, 2000 at 11:00 AM from St. Mary Cathedral, Rev. Alex Mugonya, officiating. Burial took place at Resurrection Cemetery in Vanderbilt. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Michigan, through the Nelson Funeral Home.
 

Mrs Helen F. (Dzwik) Skop 
Mrs. Helen F. (Dzwik) Skop, 98 of Gaylord and formerly of Boyne Falls went to be with the Lord on Saturday, November 4, 2000. Mrs. Skop was born in Poland on July 16, 1902 and lived in the Gaylord area the past 35 years. She enjoyed sharing with others through her cooking, sewing, gardening, storytelling, singing, music making and by crocheting presents for those all around her. She loved to travel and twice, her travels took her to Poland. She was a member of Holy Redeemer Church in Vanderbilt and a former member of St. Augustine's Church in Boyne Falls and St. Mary Cathedral in Gaylord. Her family and friends will greatly miss all of the wisdom, love and laughter that she brought into their hearts and lives. She will live on in us...... forever. Mrs. Skop will be reunited with those who have gone on before her including her husband John, daughter Theresa Miller, 3 sisters Hattie, Lottie and Antoinette and 5 brothers Stanley, Victor, Ray, Joe and Steve. She is survived by 8 children; Martha Nowak of Gaylord; Ann Skop of Gaylord; Virginia Bacholzky of Detroit; Sophie Francis of Elmira; Felicia Francis of Livonia; Angie Pylar of Aurora, Ohio; Raymond (Reta) Skop of Boyne City; Rita (Ed) Hock of Venice, FL. She is also survived by 33 grandchildren, 64 great grandchildren, 19 great great grandchildren, and one brother, Bruno Dzwik of Detroit. Family was one of the most treasured blessings that she had. FUNERAL SERVICES will be held on Wednesday, November 8, 2000 at 11:00 AM from St. Mary Cathedral, in Gaylord, Rev. John McCracken, officiating. Burial will take place on Wednesday (Nov 8) at 3:00 PM from St. Augustine's Cemetery in Boyne Falls. Visitation at the Nelson Funeral Home in Gaylord, will be on Tuesday from 1-8 PM. Mrs. Skop will be in state on Wednesday at the church beginning at 10:00 AM. St. Mary Altar Rosary Society and the Daughters of Isabella will offer a rosary Tuesday afternoon at 3:00 PM and a parish wake service will be held on Tuesday evening at 6:30 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice, through the Nelson Funeral Home, 135 N. Center, Gaylord, MI 49735. 

Maria Stella Latuszek 
Mrs. Maria Stella Latuszek, 91 of Gaylord, MI died Thursday, November 2, 2000 at her home. Mrs. Latuszek was born in Elmira, MI on April 27, 1909, the daughter of Thomas & Mary Dobleski. On June 22, 1935 in Gaylord, MI she married Stanley Latuszek, who preceded her in death in 1992. She is survived by her children; Donald (Angeline) Latuszek of Gaylord, MI; John (Donna) Latuszek of Gaylord, MI; James (Sharon) Latuszek of Gaylord, MI; Robert (Irene) Latuszek of Gaylord, MI; Carol (Jim) Fischer of Waldron, Indiana; Marjorie (Charles) Dipzinski of Gaylord, MI; Marie (Curtis) Jeffers of Gaylord, MI. She is also survived by 23 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and one sister, Rosland Konkel of Dearborn Heights, MI. She was preceded in death by 7 brothers and 3 sisters. FUNERAL SERVICES were held on Saturday, November 4, 2000 at 10:00 AM, from St. Mary Cathedral, in Gaylord, MI, Rev. Garth Hilmer, officiating. Burial took place in St. Mary Cemetery in Gaylord, MI. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Michigan or to St. Mary Cathedral through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Helen Marie Shymatta 
Miss Helen Marie Shymatta, 81 of Gaylord died Thursday, October 26, 2000 at Tendercare. Miss Shymatta was born in Pittsburgh, PA on September 2, 1919 and moved to Gaylord in 1964. She is survived by her son; Pete Balnites of Pittsburgh, 2 sisters; Ann Siwecki of Gaylord; Frances Burzynski of Pennsylvania, 2 brothers; Jack Shymatta and Frank Shymatta both of Pittsburgh, PA, and several nieces and nephews. FUNERAL SERVICES were held on Friday, October 27, 2000 at 3:00 PM from the Nelson Funeral Home, Rev. Garth Hilmer, officiating. Burial took place in Evergreen Hill Cemetery in Vanderbilt. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Donald Richard "Dick" Weber 
Donald Richard “Dick” Weber, 47, of Gaylord, died Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2000. He was born June 9, 1953 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, along with his identical twin brother, William. He grew up in Toronto – always Maple Leaf’s fan. He attended Richmond High School. A fan of hockey, he began playing the sport at age 3. He later player Junior A hockey, and he along with his twin, played on various teams, frequently on the same line; Dick as right wing and Bill left. They always played their best when they were on the same line together. Dick and Bill earned hockey scholarships to the Ivy League’s prestigious Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y. During his hockey career at Cornell, Dick earned the Joe DeLibro Award, exemplifying his sportsmanship. The Weber brother graduated from Cornell in 1976, Dick with a degree in hotel management. The hockey-playing brothers were offered a tryout with the L.A. Kings. Dick’s first career move was with CP Hotels in Montabello, Quebec where he received on-the-job training. He was soon transferred to the CP Hotel Resort in Lake Louise. The staff of Lake Louise Resort lobbied hard to obtain his services to make him a part of the Lake Louise Whiskey Jocks hockey team. Dick met his wife, Sharon, at Chateau Lake Louise. They wed in 1981 after a four-year courtship. He learned of an opening for a general manager at Hidden Valley Resort in Gaylord through the Cornell Alumni Services. He saw it as a wonderful opportunity and in 1985 the couple moved to Gaylord where they immediately began to establish themselves in the community. Sharon had moved to Gaylord “sight unseen,” on the faith her husband was making a good move for them and their 1-year-old daughter, Jennifer. It turned out to be a great move for the community of Gaylord. Immediately, Dick was instrumental in major improvements to the Hidden Valley Resort and Otsego Ski Club. After seven years there, he moved to Marsh Ridge Resort in Gaylord where he worked with resort owner Jac Bott to take a fledling golf and cross country ski resort and develop it into one of the area’s most popular, exclusive destinations. Early on, Dick became the first president of the Gaylord Area Convention & Tourism Bureau. What was meant to be a one-year position, quickly turned into four years. He was well suited as a leader in roles such as spearheading the Gaylord Golf Mecca. Working alongside tourism director Paul Beachnau, he generated enthusiasm and marketing concepts that resulted in Gaylord’s distinction as the golf capital of northern Michigan. Soon after becoming general manager at Marsh Ridge, Dick began to act on his dream to someday have an ownership role in hotels. His honest, easy and sincere demeanor allowed him to partner with Daune Weiss, owner of Gaylord’s Holiday Inn. They had similar philosophies on how business should be conducted. Drawing on each other’s expertise in the hotel business, they set about constructing their first hotel outside Okemos in 1995. Since then, they had opened hotels in Grand Rapids, Traverse City, and two additional hotels in the Lansing market. They attended a ground-breaking ceremony on Tuesday, Oct. 24, for their latest hotel in Greenville. Other accomplishments or achievements in which Dick had a kingpin role included establishing the Otsego County Sportsplex, which opened in 1996. His love of hockey motivated him to want to share it with the community. He was active in the hockey leagues and loved playing the sport with his 12-year-old son, William. He also loved kicking a soccer ball around with his daughter, Jennifer, who has received all-state honors as a member of the Gaylord High School soccer team. Dick was a gifted musician who could entertain friends for hours at the piano. With his unique effervescent playing style and sing-along leadership, for years he was the star of local annual Christmas parties. Dick gave back further to the community with his Rotary Club involvement. He was a part of a trip to the Dominican Republic in November 1999 with other Rotarians where they helped to repair a hurricane-damaged medical clinic in an impoverished area. Dick and Sharon’s many close friends – in Gaylord, across the United States and in Canada – were treated to Dick’s flair for entertaining. He was very comfortable with the role of chef in the kitchen and enjoyed creating special dishes for his friends and family. He is survived by his wife, Sharon; daughter, Jennifer; son, William; twin brother William (Charleen DeLong); mother, Margaret Weber; Sharon’s brother Paul (Karyn) Espey; Sharon’ parents, Al and Shirley Espey; an two nephews, Grahm and Samual. FUNERAL SERVICES were held Friday, October 27 at 1 p.m. from the Gaylord Evangelical Free Church, the Rev. James Mathis officiating. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or the ALS Association, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Daune Marie (Langestaff) Weiss 
Daune Marie (Langestaff) Weiss, 53, Gaylord community leader and owner of the Gaylord Holiday Inn, died Tuesday, October 24th in Gaylord. She was born on July 29, 1947 in Newberry, MI. She is survived by three sons: Christopher and his wife Sarah, of Boulder, CO.; Peter of East Lansing, and Andrew, a student at Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie and grandson Jacoby. She was preceded in death by a daughter Kristin, in 1975. Also surviving is her fiancé, Robert Palmbos of Gaylord, sister Lori Langestaff of Rudyard, and brothers Peter Langestaff of Fibre and Earnest Langestaff of Moran in the Upper Peninsula. A graduate of Northern Michigan University, she taught English and sociology in St. Ignace and Rudyard schools. She served on the development boards for both Northern Michigan University and lake Superior State University and was nominated earlier this year to fill the next vacant position on Lake Superior State’s board of trustees. She was recently elected to the North Country Bank board of directors. She moved to Gaylord in 1985 and became owner of the Holiday Inn. An active civic leader, she has been involved in numerous organizations and last July received the coveted Buergermeister award, an honor given to the “Citizen of the Year” by the Gaylord Herald Times. She was also selected Alpenfest parade marshal in 1995. Among her other awards: Northern Michigan University Alumni Service Award, American Association of University Women (Gaylord chapter) Woman Making History Award, Gaylord/Otsego County Chamber of Commerce Athena Award and Gaylord Kiwanis Club Citizen of the Year. During her 15 years in Gaylord she was active in the Gaylord/Otsego County Chamber of Commerce, Gaylord Area Convention and Tourism Bureau, West Michigan Tourist Association past president and board member, Otsego County United Way Board of Directors, Alpenfest Honors Luncheon Committee chairperson, Gaylord Rotary Club, Gaylord Downtown Development Authority board of directors and founder and president of the Gaylord Wish Tree Foundation, an annual activity that has provided gifts for hundreds of needy children at Christmas time each year. She also hosted Wertz Warriors snowmobilers annually, an event that raises money for the Special Olympics. A public memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM Sunday, Oct. 29, at St. Mary Cathedral in Gaylord. Burials will be at the Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Moran, MI. Memorials appreciated to the Gaylord Holiday Inn Wish Tree or the Daune Weiss Memorial Fund through the Nelson Funeral Home.
 

Mrs. Ann C. Butka 
Mrs. Ann C. Butka, 63, of Gaylord, went home to the Lord, peacefully in the comfort of loved ones, on Tuesday, December 5, 2000, after a courageous battle with cancer. Mrs. Butka was born in Petoskey on January 13, 1937 and moved to the Gaylord area 43 years ago from Petoskey. She had been employed by the Diocese of Gaylord. Mrs. Butka was a member of St. Mary Cathedral parish in Gaylord and St. Mary Daughters of Isabella. She enjoyed life, and serving others came first. Mrs. Butka is survived by her husband Leonard, her daughter, Mary (Brad) Fitzek of Gaylord, her son, David Butka of Tawas City, 2 grandchildren; Blake and Steven Fitzek, her brothers and sisters; Lucille (Ben) Blaho of Petoskey, Mary (Joe) Evans of Cheboygan, Joe (Julie) Flynn of Harbor Springs, James (Evelyn) Flynn of Petoskey, Gerald (Carol) Flynn of Petoskey, Kathleen (Don) Lump of Petoskey, and Mike (Sue) Flynn of Petoskey. She was preceded in death by 1 sister, Rosemary Flynn, and one brother, Jack Flynn. A "celebration of life" FUNERAL SERVICE was held on Saturday, December 9, 2000 at 11:00 AM from St. Mary Cathedral in Gaylord, Bishop Patrick R. Cooney, celebrant. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Vanderbilt. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ann Butka Memorial Fund, through the Nelson Funeral Home, 135 N. Center, Gaylord, MI 49735. 

Mr. Michael W. Bergquist 
Mr. Michael W. Bergquist, Jr. 22 of Gaylord died Monday, December 4, 2000 due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident in Mecosta County. Michael was born in Gaylord on October 18, 1978 and was a lifelong resident of Gaylord. He is survived by 2 children; Lauren Marie Fox of Yuba, CA, Raija Adell of Gaylord, his parents; Michael Sr. and Nancy Bergquist of Gaylord, 1 sister, Deena (Sean) Meehan of Gaylord, his paternal grandmother, Lois Cliff of Twining, 2 nieces and 1 nephew; Jessica Paige, Alexander and Jade Moon Meehan. FUNERAL SERVICES were held on Saturday, December 9, 2000, at 2:30 PM from the Gaylord Community Church, Rev. Steve Scheer, & Rev. Ken Willett officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Gaylord Community Church, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Theodore I. Byba 
Mr. Theodore I. Byba, 68, of Gaylord died Monday, December 4, 2000 at his home at Lake Arrowhead. Mr. Byba was born in Detroit on June 26, 1932 and moved to Gaylord in 1988 from Dearbon Heights. He retired from Ford Rouge Steel in Dearborn and was most currently employed with Gaylord Ford and Enterprise Rent-A-Car. Mr. Byba was an 18 year veteran of the United States Army, and Marines. He served 1 tour of duty during the Korean War and 2 tours of duty during the Vietnam War. Mr. Byba is survived by family friends, Don & Mickey Beers, Branden & Krystal Beers, Ron & Jill Beers, Dan & Candy Beers and Lance & Lauren Beers all of Dearborn Hgts. and Dennis Dow of White Lake. Burial was in St. Hedwig Cemetery in Dearbon Heights. 

Mrs. Vivian Maxine Wetzel 
Mrs. Vivian Maxine Wetzel, 70 of Gaylord died Monday, December 4, 2000 at Tendercare of Gaylord. Mrs. Wetzel was born in Jackson on June 1, 1930. In 1955 she moved to Gaylord and in 1974 left the area for several years. She later returned to Gaylord in 1985. She was a former member of the First United Methodist Church and formerly active in the Republican Party. She loved reading and studying the Civil War. She also enjoyed crafts, sewing and knitting. Mrs. Wetzel is survived by 5 children; Wayne (Beth) of Lansing, Jana Tuck of Grayling, Kevin (Christine) of South Lyon, Robin Murphy of Lansing, Melanie (Dave) Stroh of Ladson, South Carolina, 14 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and 1 sister, Dianne Hammond of Kentucky. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or to the American Cancer Society, through the Nelson Funeral Home. MEMORIAL SERVICES were held on Friday, December 8, 2000 at 1:00 PM from the First United Methodist Church, Rev. John Naile, officiating. 

Mrs. Arla Faye McConnell 
Mrs. Arla Faye McConnell, 72 of Guthrie Lakes, died Sunday, December 3, 2000 at Otsego Memorial Hospital. Mrs. McConnell was born in Elkton, MI on May 18, 1928 and moved to Guthrie Lakes in 1972 from Mt. Clemens. She was employed by Transamerica for 7 years. She later worked for Sears & Roebuck as a manager for the telephone catalog sales department at the Macomb Mall in Roseville. She was baptized into the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses in 1990. Mrs. McConnell is survived by her husband of 54 years, Ira, 4 children; Randy L. (Rebecca) of Riley, MI, Sherry L. (Richard) Planey of Mt. Pleasant, Patric M. (Carole) of Englewood, FL, Debra S. Slanec of Marine City, 12 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, 1 sister; Donna McElroy of San Jose, CA, 2 brothers; Dale Shuart of Bad Axe, MI, Peter (Patricia) Shuart of Filion, MI and many nieces and nephews. MEMORIAL SERVICES were held on Saturday, December 9, 2000 at 1:00 PM from Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses in Gaylord, Elder Bid Tennant, officiating. Arrangements were made by Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mrs. Irene A. Kujawa 
Mrs. Irene A. Kujawa, 88 of Gaylord died Thursday, November 30, 2000 at Tendercare. Mrs. Kujawa was born in Gaylord on August 21, 1912 and had been a life-long resident of the area. She was a member of St. Mary Cathedral parish and St. Mary Altar Rosary Society. On September 21, 1931 in Gaylord she married Raymond Kujawa. He preceded her in death in 1993. She was also preceded in death by her son Raymond Jr. and her daughter Phyllis. Mrs. Kujawa is survived by her children; Margaret Tice of St. Paul Park, MN, William Kujawa of Gaylord, Sally Colosimo of Ferndale, 10 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, 2 sisters; Lorraine Malak of Gaylord, and Carrie Burger of Florida. FUNERAL SERVICES were held on Monday, December 4, 2000 at 10:00 AM from St. Mary Cathedral, Rev. John McCracken officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Cathedral through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mrs. Mary V. Paterni 
Mrs. Mary V. Paterni, 72, of Gaylord died Monday, November 20, 2000 at her home. Mrs. Paterni was born in Louisville, KY on September 4, 1928 and moved to Gaylord 8 years ago from the Detroit / Redford area. Mrs. Paterni was a member of St. Mary Cathedral parish. Mrs. Paterni is survived by 5 children; Marie Paterni of Gaylord, James (Micki) Paterni of Gaylord, Patrick (Florence) Paterni of Bloomfield Hills, Ralph Paterni of Westland, Gregory Paterni of Westland, 8 grandchildren; David, Amanda, Danielle, Jennifer, James, Lydia Spencer and Steven. She was preceded in death by her husband James Paterni on October 5, 2000, and her daughter Pamela in 1991. A MEMORIAL MASS was held on Saturday, November 25, 2000 at 11:00 AM from St. Mary Cathedral, Rev. John McCracken, officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Michigan, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Robert A. Schreur 
Mr. Robert A. Schreur, Sr., 72, of Gaylord died Monday, November 20, 2000 at Northern Michigan Hospital in Petoskey. Mr. Schreur was born in Gaylord on October 17, 1928. During his early years, Bob was a delivery driver for Oven Fresh Bakeries in Commerce, MI. In 1968 he moved back to the Gaylord area and began working for Georgia Pacific. He later worked as Beverage Manager at Glens Market for several years and later retired from Hops & Schnapps. On November 21, 1969 he married the former Bonnie Olund, who survives. Mr. Schreur was an avid bowler and bowled a perfect 300 game on January 27, 1982, at the Gaylord Bowling Center. He also enjoyed daily golf outings with his "golfing buddy" Ben Tuszynski. Bob was a member of the F.O.E. #1825. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge and held the distinction of being the youngest Grand Master in Michigan. Mr. Schreur is survived by his wife of 31 years, Bonnie, six children; Kristie Barnett of Novi, Robert A. Schreur, Jr. of Leigh Acres, FL, Debra (John) Harrison of White Lake, Jon Secord of Kansas, Jay (Trina) Secord of Gaylord, Sally (Donald) Lee of Ft. Myers, FL, seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and one brother, Arthur (Mildred) Schreur of Belton, TX. He was preceded in death by his parents Floyd and Flora Schreur, and his brother Donald in 1995. MEMORIAL SERVICES were held on Tuesday, November 28, 2000 at 11:00 AM from the Nelson Funeral Home, Rev. John Naile, officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Robert Schreur may be made to any of the Eagles Lodge charities, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Lawrence J. Welling 
Mr. Lawrence J. Welling, 90 of Vanderbilt died Sunday, November 19, 2000. Mr. Welling was born in Wolverine on March 2, 1910 and had lived most of his life in Vanderbilt. He and his wife had moved to the Alten Zimmer Senior Center in Gaylord in January of 1998. Mr. Welling retired from Quigley Industries in Vanderbilt after 10 years of service. Prior to that he worked at Higgins Industries and was a bus driver for the Vanderbilt School District. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the United States Army. Mr. Welling was a member of the Wolverine American Legion #122, and the Vanderbilt Community Church. Mr. Welling is survived by his wife, Carrie, two children; John (Marie) Welling of Bethlehem, PA, Elsie (John) Konopaski of Vanderbilt, eight grandchildren; Patricia (James) Reinhold, Amy (Ken) Craft, Becky (Mike) Fornell, Jim Welling, Jerri Belanger, Renee (Jay) Savell, Mary (John) Peterson and John (Kim) Konopaski, 12 great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandson. He is also survived by three sisters; Lova Wells, of Cheboygan, Marie (Willard) Howe of Cheboygan, Lenna Young of Luna Pier, MI, two sisters-in-law; Helen Sherman and Helen Sharrow. He was preceded in death by one great-granddaughter, Jennifer. FUNERAL SERVICES were held on Wednesday, November 22, 2000 at 10:30 AM from the Nelson Funeral Home, Rev. John Naile, officiating. Burial will be in Silver Lake Cemetery in Wolverine. Memorial contributions may be made to the Vanderbilt Elkland Seniors or to the First United Methodist Church, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Lee Earl Edmiston 
Mr. Lee Earl Edmiston, 66 of Gaylord died Friday, November 17, 2000. He was born in Detroit on September 9, 1934 and moved to the Gaylord area in 1991. He retired from General Motors after 33 years of service. During that time he worked at the Fischer Body Tech Center on Van Dyke Road, the GM Plant on Clark Road and the Saturn Plant on 12 Mile Road. Lee served in the United States Navy during the Korean War. He was a member of the F.O.E. #1825 in Gaylord and past president of the Arrowhead Association. On January 14, 1983 at Charity Lutheran Church in Detroit, he married the former Margaret Fraser. Mr. Edmiston is survived by his wife of 18 years, Margaret; 6 daughters; Vicki Elliott of Tennessee, Sandra Edmiston of Negaunee, Kathleen (Tim) Alonzo of Utica, Julie (Ron) Perry of Berkley, Maureen (Anthony) Hudecz of Chesterfield, Kathleen (Shawn) Nicholson of St. Clair Shores, 10 grandchildren; Derek, Dylan, Dakota, Emily, Raymond, Paige, Anthony, Olivia, Kyle, and Kelsey. He is also survived by one sister; Diane (Roger) Dingman of Rochester Hills, three nephews; Scott Dingman of Ohio, Stephen (Sandy) Dingman of Canton, Wayne Dingman of Royal Oak. FUNERAL SERVICES were held on Wednesday, November 22, 2000 at 1:00 PM from Peace Lutheran Church, Rev. Thomas Mammoser and Rev. John Naile, officiating. Burial will be in Hayes Township Cemetery in Gaylord. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or to the American Heart Association, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Fred A. Charboneau 
Mr. Fred A. Charboneau, 60, loving husband and devoted father, passed away Saturday, November 11, 2000 at his home in Gaylord. Fred was born December 8, 1939 in Cheboygan. He was a prominent local businessman, a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and past president of the Gaylord Booster Club. He is survived by his wife, Teresa, three sons; Randy (Rena) Charboneau of New York, Ryan (Margie) Charboneau of Gaylord, Rance (Julie) Charboneau of Macomb, five grandchildren; Ryan, Stephanie and Joel all of Gaylord, Randy and Helen of New York. He is also survived by his brothers; Jerry (Ruth) Charboneau of Farmington, Norman Charboneau of Cheboygan, Paul Charboneau of Cheboygan, his sister, Kay (Art) Laurance of Florida, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Arnold & Ursula Charboneau and his brothers Leroy and Elden Charboneau. MEMORIAL SERVICES were held on Wednesday, November 15, 2000 at 10:00 AM from the First United Methodist Church, Rev. John Naile, officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mrs. Hattie Mae Johnson 
Mrs. Hattie Mae Johnson, 87 of Gaylord, died Friday, November 10, 2000 at Mercy Manor in Grayling. Mrs. Johnson was born to Roy & Nettie Small on August 13, 1913 in Mio and moved to Frederic in 1932. She soon met her husband-to-be, Carl Johnson, and the couple wed in 1940. Together, they owned AuSable Souvenir Works until 1958. In 1957 Carl and Hattie started the Underground Forest, which was later moved to Gaylord and renamed Call of the Wild. Mrs. Johnson is survived by 3 children; Bill (Bev) Johnson of Gaylord, Judy (Bruce) Fleet of Mancelona, Janis (Don) Vollmer of Gaylord, 11 grandchildren; Kellie (John) Puroll of Gaylord, Pam (Todd) Morgridge of Gaylord, Julie (Tom) Charbonneau of Gaylord, Diane (Terry) Bentgson of Cedar Springs, Bill (Joanie) Fleet of Mancelona, Kathy Morris of Sturgis, Tim (Pat) Fleet of Memphis, TN, Lori (Peter) Angel of Metamora, Morgan, Nick and Alex Vollmer all of Gaylord, 19 great-grandchildren, and 7 great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by 1 brother, Don Small of Gaylord, 2 sisters; Bessie Pratt of Flushing, and Edna Galbraith of Gaylord, 2 sisters-in-law; Eva (Roy) Papenfus of Grayling, Elida Bearss of Grayling, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband of 33 years, Carl, in 1973. She was also preceded in death by 1 brother and 4 sisters. FUNERAL SERVICES were held on Monday, November 13, at 10:00 AM from the Nelson Funeral Home in Gaylord, Jerry Batterbee, officiating. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery in Frederic. Memorial contributions may be made to the Eden Alternative at Mercy Manor in Grayling, through the Nelson Funeral Home, 135 N. Center, Gaylord, MI 49735.