Mrs. Lillian M. Centeck 
Lillian M. Centeck, 88 of Lewiston died Sunday, June 29, 2003 at Tendercare in Gaylord. Mrs. Centeck was born in Detroit on February 10, 1915 and moved to Little Bear Lake in 1971 from Allen Park. She was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Lewiston and a member of the Lewiston VFW Auxiliary. Mrs. Centeck was preceded in death by her husband George in 1991. She was also preceded in death by 2 sisters and 1 brother. She is survived by her son, Raymond (Dianne) Centeck of Johannesburg; 2 brothers and 1 sister. FUNERAL SERVICES will be held on Tuesday, July 1, 2003 at 11 AM from St. Francis Church in Lewiston, Father Gregory Kurutz, officiating. Burial will follow at St Francis Cemetery in Lewiston. Visitation will be held at the church on Monday from 5-8 PM and on Tuesday beginning at 10 AM. A parish wake service will be held at the church Monday evening at 7 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to the family, through the Nelson Funeral Home, 135 N Center, Gaylord, MI 49735. 

Mr. Steven Scott Chapel 
Steven Scott Chapel, 43 of Gaylord died Wensday, April 23, 2003 while at work. Mr. Chapel was born on September 27, 1959 in Ypsilanti, the son of Arden and Sharon Chapel. He drove semi-trucks most of his life and he loved working on vehichles. He enjoyed his times spent with his sister, Sherry, and her husband, Scott. Mr. Chapel is survived by his wife Linda Chapel, his children Jennifer Chapel, Nina Ommar, and Beverly Ommar, brother Jeff and four sisters, Sherry, Terry, Michelle, and Tracy, 4 nephews and 6 nieces, sister-in-law Katherine, brother-in-law Michael, mother-in-law Marjory, brothers-in-law Scott, Harry, Virgil, and Greg. He was very much loved and will never be forgotten. He is now in heaven with his brother Micheal and his mother and father, Arden and Sharon. And God be with his brother Jeffrey. Give prayer that his brother pushes through. 

Mrs. Bertha Bernice Dluzniewski 
Bertha Bernice Dluzniewski, 74 of Gaylord died Wednesday July 9, 2003. Mrs. Dluzniewski was born in Gaylord on January 4, 1929 the daughter of Blasé & Helen (Kobylczak) Respecki. She was raised in Gaylord and later married Arthur Dluzniewski. While raising their children, Bertha worked for the local Gaylord Bakery. Later on she was a hostess for the Country Star Restaurant and the Towncrest Restaurant. Mrs. Dluzniewski loved cooking, fishing, going to garage sales, and trips to the casino. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Blasé and Helen; her husband, Arthur; and her brothers, Richard & Floyd Respecki. She is survived by her longtime companion, Don Burroughs; 3 sons, Robert of Gaylord, Thomas (Peggy) of Ellsworth, Gene (Luanne) of Gaylord; grandchildren, Christopher (Jennifer) Guggisberg of Vanderbilt, Thomas Dluzniewski of Ellsworth; great-grandchildren, Braden & Ashton Guggisberg, and Deja Dluzniewski; step-granddaughter, Kimberley Cosens of Boyne City and her children; brothers, Lawrence (Angie) Respecki of Livonia, Edward Respecki of Oak Park, Chester Respecki of Gaylord; sisters, Dorothy Ferris of Lansing, Helen (Merton) Brink of Gaylord. FUNERAL SERVICES will be held on Friday, July 11, 2003 at 3:00 PM from the Nelson Funeral Home, Jet Ormsbee, officiating. Visitation will be held on Friday from 12 Noon until the time of services. Memorial contributions may be made to the Otsego County Animal Shelter, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

M. Elene Hamilton 
M. Elene Hamilton, age 74 died Friday, July 4, 2003 at her home. She was born March 17, 1929 in Jackson, MI and was raised in the Detroit area. She moved to Northern Michigan in the early 1980’s. Mrs. Hamilton was a loving wife mother, grandmother and friend. She loved nature and it was often the subject of her paintings. She was a member of the Pen & Palette Art Guild. Memorial Services for Mrs. Hamilton will be held on Tuesday, July 8, 2003 at 1PM at the Hamilton home, Fawn Lake Forest, 1210 North Shore Drive, Waters, MI. Mrs. Hamilton is survived by her husband, William Carl; her children, William (Annetta) Hamilton, David (Linda) Hamilton, Jo Anne (Kenneth) Cox, Jeanne (Joseph) Hamilton, Mary Hamilton; her grandchildren, David (Leslie) Hamilton, Steve (Terri) Hamilton, Charles Hamilton, Kenneth (Shannon) Cox, Thomas Cox, Michael Hamilton, Russell Stein; great-grandchildren, Brittany Elene, Kyle, Damon and Harlee; 1 brother, John (Donna) Mell. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Hospice of Michigan through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Herbert L. Harrington 
Herbert L. Harrington, 91 of Vienna Twp, Johannesburg died Saturday, August 9, 2003 at Otsego Memorial Hospital. Mr. Harrington was born in Charlton Township on October 10, 1911, the son of Hiram & Jessie (Roby) Harrington. In the late 1970’s, after his retirement from William Beaumont Hospital, he returned to the area, moved a schoolhouse and made it into his home. He had been a member of the Reformed Presbyterian Church since 1927. He was a member and officer of the Hetherton Presbyterian Church and a member of the Johannesburg Senior Citizens group. He enjoyed traveling and has a home in Florida. On November 19, 1943 in Ferndale, he married the former Dorothy Rumbold, who survives. Also surviving are 2 children, Joy (Robert) Williams of Caro, and Jerry Harrington of Royal Oak; 4 grandchildren, Vicki (William) McMurray, Robert Williams, Jeremiah and Jessica Harrington; great-grandchildren, Kayleen, Kory and Kyle; and many nieces and nephews. One sister and 4 brothers preceded him in death. FUNERAL SERVICES will be held on Tuesday, August 12, 2003 at 11 AM from the Hetherton Presbyterian Church, Reverend Milton Harrington, officiating. Burial will follow at Hetherton Cemetery in Charlton Twp. Visitation at the Nelson Funeral Home will be held on Monday from 2-4 & 6-8 PM and on Tuesday at the church beginning at 10 AM. Memorial contributions may be made to the Reformed Presbyterian Home or to the Hospitality House in Petoskey, through the Nelson Funeral Home, 135 n center, Gaylord, MI 49735. 

Mr. Edward Carl Hermel 
Edward Carl Hermel, 65 of Vanderbilt died July 16, 2003 in Grand Blanc. Mr. Hermel was born in Flint on September 5, 1937. Mr. Hermel is survived by 3 children, Pam (Darrol) Miller of Vanderbilt, Carl Hermel of Wyoming, Chris (Tammie) Hermel of Wyoming; 10 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his grandson Brian Hermel. Burial will take place on Tuesday, July 22, 2003 at 12:00 PM, at Northport Cemetery in Leelanau Township, in Northport, Rev. Thomas Mammoser officiating. 

Mrs. Geraldine M. Hogan 
Geraldine M. Hogan, 84 of Gaylord died Thursday, August 7, 2003 at her home. Mrs. Hogan was born in Escanaba on February 27, 1919, the daughter of Klas & Bertha (Blanchette) Wicklund. She attended Gregg Business College in Chicago. On November 29, 1941, in Sault Ste. Marie, MI, she married Oliver H. Hogan. In 1958 the couple moved to Gaylord from Wyandotte and purchased the Bozek Jewelry Store. Five years later the business, renamed Hogan’s Jewelers, relocated to its current location on Main St. Mrs. Hogan was co-owner and a very integral part of the jewelry store. She was a member of the Zonta Club, The Gaylord Book Club and the Otsego County Democratic party. She loved traveling, reading and crossword puzzles. Mrs. Hogan was preceded in death by her husband Oliver in 1994 and her son Michael in 1997. She is survived by her children, Nancy (William) Schmiedicke of Comstock Park, MI, Betsy (Gene) Sanders of Gaylord, Carol (James Magnuson) Hogan of Warren; grandchildren, Dana (Joel) Levanduski, Marc & Erin Schmiedicke, Tyler, Abby, & Colin Sanders, Jason & Jeffery Magnuson, Cynthia (David) Graves, Sandra Hogan; great-grandchildren, Collin & Peyton Graves; brother, Raymond (Barbara Young) Wicklund of Sault Ste. Marie, MI; and sister-in-law, Margaret Riske of Trenton. FUNERAL SERVICES will be held on Monday, August 11, 2003 at 11:00 AM from St. Mary Cathedral, Rev. John McCracken, officiating. Burial will take place at St. Mary Cemetery. Visitation at the Nelson Funeral Home will be held on Sunday from 4-8 PM and on Monday from 10 AM until prayers at 10:30 AM. A wake service will be held Sunday evening at 6:30 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to the Otsego County Commission on Aging, Hospice of Michigan or to the charity of your choice, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Hylas T. Jordan 
Hylas T. Jordan of Gaylord, formerly of St. Clair Shores, passed away July 24, 2003 at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City, Mr. Jordan was born on November 8,1915 in Herald, Illinois, the son of Robert and Dana Jordan. The family moved to Detroit where he met and married Margaret Deceuninck on November 7,1936. He was an active outdoorsman and belonged to the Detroit Sportsmens Club. In 1936 he and Margaret purchased property in the Vanderbilt area and thus began a long association with Gaylord and Otsego County. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. After retiring from Gathen Industries in 1977 he and Margaret moved permanently to their summer home on Heart Lake. He enjoyed driving and seeing the north country and was especially fond of the Upper Peninsula. He also wrote poetry on various topics he could poke fun at. Mr. Jordan was preceded in death by his wife Margaret in 1996. He is survived by his daugher, Susan; 4 nieces and nephews, Leroy (Sharon) Deceuninck of Shelby Twp., Deborah (Charles) Wittstruck of Wixom, Alan (Cheryl) Decuninck of Mt. Clemens and Pamela (Michael) Chowan of Sterling Heights; and also his brother-in-law, Fermin (Margaret) Decuninck of Shelby Twp. Internment will be at the Otsego Lake Township Cemetery. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorials appreciated to Hospice of Michigan or Munson cardiac Unit, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mrs. Clara Jozwiak 
Clara Jozwiak, 93 of Livingston Township in Gaylord died Monday, June 16, 2003 at St. John Oakland Hospital in Madison Heights. Mrs. Jozwiak was born in Gaylord on June 11, 1910, the daughter of Joseph & Mary (Fluder) Smolarz. Mrs. Jozwiak was a member of Holy Redeemer Altar Rosary Society and the Otsego County Senior Citizens. She was preceded in death by her husband Walter in 1990, her son Bernard in 1997 and her brothers and sisters. She is survived by her daughter, Barbara Seile of Sterling Height; her son, Alvin Jozwiak of Gaylord; 7 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; 1 great great grandson. FUNERAL SERVICES will be held on Thursday, June 19, 2003 at 11 AM, from St. Mary Cathedral in Gaylord, Father John McCracken officiating. Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Livingston Township. Visitation at the Nelson Funeral Home will be held on Wednesday from 2-8 PM and on Thursday at the church beginning at 10 AM. Memorial contributions may be made to Holy Redeemer Church Building Fund, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Frederick William Kaiser 
Community leader Frederick William Kaiser. 63, died at home on Saturday, July 19, 2003.Born and raised in the Detroit metropolitan area, he was a resident of Otsego County since 1979. Being of a civic mind, he served in many positions since relocating to northern Michigan. He served for years as the Hayes Township constable, where citizens will remember his professionally uniformed vigilance on election days. He served as assistant Scout master for Boy Scout Troop 1, and was a founding leader of the Gaylord Police Explorer Post. He served as a representative for the bus divers of the Michigan Education Association local on a particularly rigorous contract negotiation, and was a Teamsters member in his position with the county bus system. As a Waters resident, he served as a fire commissioner. He was a faithful member and leader in the church. Over the years he served, among other positions, as president of the congregation at the Peace Lutheran Church, senior warden at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, and a lay minister at St. John's Lutheran Church of Grayling. After completing a certificate course of study at Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio, he worked as a supply pastor at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Grand Rapids as well as an internist chaplain at two Grand Rapids area hospitals, in the burns and oncology departments. He rarely missed the breakfast gatherings of a regional pastoral association in Traverse City. Even as his health declined, he faithfully answered calls to be a supply pastor to area churches as the need arose. While his dream of being ordained in the Lutheran Church was not fulfilled, his messages and the example he set were inspirational to those who knew him, In his volunteer and professional dealings, he was always an egalitarian who looked after each individual, especially the disadvantaged. He helped to develop work projects that got more Boy Scouts to go to summer camp. As a manager, he viewed himself as a servant to those who worked under him. He constantly struggled with upper management for better work lives and wages for those who worked for him. As a family man, he took his responsibilities seriously. Being the oldest brother, and often the oldest cousin at extended family gatherings, he many times was responsible for the whole group. He carried that sense of accountability forward as a father and husband. While his rules could be strict and he expected the best from his family, he fairly and even-handedly administered those rules and always gave the very best of himself. His obituary would be failing and totally off the mark if it failed to highlight his gregariousness and sense of humor. While he took his responsibilities seriously, he never took himself too seriously. Whether at home, at the school bus garage, or while running the Northland Inn, he always had a warm smile, a firm handshake, and (most of all) a hot cup of coffee for everyone present. He loved humor and often used it as a tool to teach a life lesson to a student, or to introduce a sermon. This quick-witted comeback king, with a comment about everything, once had a professional comedian from the stage respond to his quip, "I hate it when the crowd is funnier than I am." Those who knew him know that wherever his spirit is he's got them "rolling in the aisles." He is survived by his wife, Erika, of Gaylord; three children, Frederick E. Kaiser II of Ann Arbor, Regina Yatich of Gaylord and Karl S. Kaiser II of San Antonio, Texas; two brothers and two sisters-in-law, Skip and Therese Kaiser of Grayling and Gary and Deborah Kaiser of Pinckney; his mother-in-law, Regina Kudas of Gaylord; and uncles, cousins, associates and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick E. and Eleonora Kaiser formerly of Waters; uncle Karl S. Kaiser, formerly of Royal Oak; and aunt Edna (Kaiser) Schoen. A memorial service will be held at Peace Lutheran Church, 3703 Old 27 South Gaylord, on Saturday, July 26 at 11 a.m, the Rev. Dr. Carl Heidel and the Rev. Thomas Mammoser officiating. Memorial donations may be made to the Gaylord chapter of Hospice of Michigan. 

Mr. George A. Kreitner III 
George A. Kreitner, age 62 of Gaylord died Friday, June 13, 2003 at his home. Mr. Kreitner was born on December 6, 1940 in Nashville Tennessee. On December 23, 1961, he married the former Janice E. Cooper. They moved to Gaylord in 1992 from Grayling. He was employed at the Gaylord Wal-Mart for 6 years, and with Vital Care in 1992. He enjoyed singing and playing the guitar. He loved hunting, fishing, going to the casino, and most of all he loved his family. Mr. Kreitner is survived by his wife of 41 years Janice, children, Joyce Starks of Gaylord, Julia and Joline Kreitner of Gaylord, Jennifer (Doug) Buning of Gaylord, Joanne DeFeyer of Gaylord, and Jessica Kreitner of Elmira. Also surviving is his father, George II of Michaywe; 14 grandchildren; his sister, Lisa (Clinton) Miltz of Gaylord; brothers, Ronald (Pam) of Gaylord, Frank (Roseanne) of Tawas, John (Bertie) of Detroit, Kirt (Beverly) of Grayling, and James (Debbie) of Vanderbilt. He was preceded in death by his mother Mary Elizabeth and 3 sons, Paul in 1965, George in 1966, and Joseph in 2002. Funeral services will be held on Monday, June 16, 2003 at 3:00 PM from the Nelson Funeral Home, Rev. Greg Lenar officiating. Visitation for Mr. Kreitner will be held on Monday from 1 PM until the time of services. Memorials appreciated to the Kreitner family through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Carl A. Kunde 
Carl A. Kunde, age 74, died Monday, June 23, 2003 in Flint. He was born on August 28, 1928 in Fowlerville, Mi where he lived for many years. He resided in Wolverine for several years moving to Gaylord in 1989. He was a farmer, a carpenter and a painter. He was an Elder with the Jehovah’s Witnesses and he loved his ministry. Mr. Kunde was known for his smile and kindness. A Memorial Service will be given on Saturday, June 28, 2003 at 3PM from the Gaylord Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses by Gary Sumerix. Mr. Kunde is survived by his wife of 52 years, Marion Jean; his children, Brian Carl Kunde of Pinckney, Karin Patton of Cheboygan, Daryl Keith Kunde of Gaylord; grandchildren, Kelly Patton, Melissa Kunde, Brittany Belle Kunde and Connor Keith Kunde; brother, Robert Kunde. Mr. Kunde is preceded in death by his parents and 2 sisters. Arrangements were handled by the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Irvin J. Leberg 
Irvin J. Leberg, 91 of Gaylord died Sunday, July 6, 2003 at Skilled Nursing Spectrum Health Facility, Reed City Campus in Reed City. Mr. Leberg was born in Bay City on March 4, 1912 and moved to Gaylord 1981. Mr. Leberg retired in 1971 after working over 40 years as a tool and die maker with Great Lake Engineering in Detroit and Federal Mogul – Bower Roller Bearing in Detroit. He was a member of Peace Lutheran Church in Gaylord. Mr. Leberg was preceded in death by his wife, Alice in 1995. He is survived by 2 daughters, F. Sigrid (Richard) Witte of Big Rapids, Amy (Larry) Corell of Gaylord; 6 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; 1 brother, Ralph (Marge) Leberg of East Pointe. Memorial services will be held on Thursday, July 10, 2003 at 3 PM from Peace Lutheran Church, Rev. Thomas Mammoser, officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Peace Lutheran Church or to the Alzheimer’s Association for research, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Sylvester S. Lenartowicz 
Sylvester S. Lenartowicz, 83 of Gaylord died Saturday, June 14, 2003 in Texas. Mr. Lenartowicz was born in Sparr on December 12, 1919, the son of Frank & Mary (Basinski) Lenartowicz. He was a member of the VFW Clyde Wilkes Post #1518, the Gaylord F.O. E. # 1825 and the Northland Sportsman’s Club. On July 23, 1965 in Gaylord he married the former Alice Schlaud, who preceded him in death on November 3, 2002. His son Richard Lenartowicz also preceded him in death. Surviving are three children, Anthony “Tony” Lenartowicz of Florida, Christopher Lenartowicz of Texas, James Lenartowicz of Indiana; several grandchildren & great grandchildren; brothers & sisters, Louis (Louise) Lenartowicz of Gaylord, Casmier “Kise” (Nancy) Lenartowicz of Gaylord, Victor (Rose) Fisher of Livonia, Frank (Ida) Lenartowicz of Roseville, MI, Emily Szymanski of Gaylord, Mary Ann Bufanda of Barrington Heights, IL; two brothers-in-law, Joseph Schlaud & James Schlaud; one sister-in-law, Hilda Rippy. FUNERAL SERVICES will be held on Friday, June 20, 2003 at 1 PM from St Mary Cathedral, Rev. John McCracken officiating. Visitation at the Nelson Funeral Home will be held on Thursday from 3-8 pm and on Friday from 10:30 AM until prayers at 12:30 PM. A parish rosary will be offered Thursday afternoon at 4 PM. An Eagles Lodge memorial service will be held Thursday at 6 PM. The Otsego County Veterans Honor Guard will hold a service Thursday evening at 6:30 PM. 

Mr. Ford Luchenbill 
Ford Luchenbill, 87 of Gaylord, formerly of Vernon, died Monday, July 14, 2003 at McReynolds Hall. Mr. Luchenbill was born in Lennon, Michigan on November 23, 1915 to the late Francis and Floyella Luchenbill, and spent his life working on the family farm. He also worked for the Flint City Ice and Fuel Co. until the industry phased out. In 1998 he moved to Gaylord. Mr. Luchenbill is survived by 4 children, James, Kathleen (Allen) Ordway & Martin all of Gaylord, Jeanice (Richard) Sivak of Elmira; 10 Grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; 4 sisters; 3 brothers; his first wife, Thelma Luchenbill. He was preceded in death by his 2nd wife Maria in 1998. Memorial contributions may be made to the family through the Nelson Funeral Home, 135 N Center, Gaylord, MI 49735. 

Mrs. Louise A. Nelson 
Louise A. Nelson, 84 of Gaylord died Friday, June 13, 2003 at her home. Mrs. Nelson was born in Vanderbilt on July 8, 1918, the daughter of John Henry & Bertha Marie (Robbins) Robinson. On May 19, 1949 in Gaylord, she married James R. Nelson. The couple purchased Nelson’s Drug Store (from his father) in 1947 and ran in until 1963. Mrs. Nelson was preceded in death by her husband, Jim, in 1990. She is survived by her son, Donald (Becky) Nelson of Gaylord; her daughter, Debbie (Mike) Brown of Gaylord; granddaughters, Amy (Jeff) Baxter of Gaylord, Melissa (Fiancée, Andy) of Traverse City, and Rachael Brown of Gaylord; three great-granddaughters. Her grandsons, Christopher Nelson and Travis Brown, preceded her in death. A memorial mass will be held on Friday, June 20, 2003 at 11 AM from St. Mary Cathedral, Rev. John McCracken, officiating. Friends may call at the Cathedral on Friday beginning at 10 AM. Burial will take place at Resurrection Cemetery in Vanderbilt. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Cathedral through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Clinton W. Ogden 
Clinton W. Ogden, age 27 of Indian River died Saturday, July 26th at Cheboygan Memorial Hospital. Clinton was born on August 25, 1975 in Petoskey, MI., and after living in Florida for a few years, moved back to the Wolverine area in 1988. He graduated from Wolverine High School in 1994. He enjoyed water skiing, boating, snowmobile riding, and doing electrical work, which he did with his grandfather for 3-4 years. He had also built himself 2 homes, including his current home. In April of 1998 in Cheboygan he married the former Amy McCauley. Funeral services will be held on Weds., July 30th at 3:00 pm from the Nelson Funeral Home, Inc. 135 N. Center St., Gaylord, MI., Zach Gardener officiating. Visitation at the funeral home will be on Tuesday from 2-8 p.m, and on Weds. beginning at 2:00 pm. Interment will be in Silver Lake Cemetery in Wolverine. He is survived by his wife, Amy; three children, Clinton Jr., Corbin, & Cooper; his parents, Curt (Deb) Ogden of Wolverine; brother Chris (Ronda) Ogden of Wolverine; grandmother RoseEdna Babcock of Wolverine; and grandparents Charles & June Ogden of Florida. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews; mother & father-in-law, Lyle & Sharon McCauley; and brothers and sisters-in-law, Dana, Scott, Nathan, Amanda, and Casey McCauley. Memorial contributions may be made to the children of Clinton Ogden through the Nelson Funeral Home, Inc. 135 N. Center St. Gaylord, MI. 49735. 

Miss Emily Rose Payton 
Emily Rose Payton, age 3 of Gaylord, Michigan died Wednesday, July 2, 2003. Emily was born in Marysville, Ohio on April 19, 2000. She is survived by her mother, Jeanette Schriner of Gaylord, MI; maternal grandmother, Janet Payton of Plain City, OH; aunts & uncle, Misti Payton of Plain City, OH, Beth (fiancé’ Terry Penny) Thomas of Belle Center, OH, Lyle (Minnie) Herrick of Sidney, OH; 6 cousins. FUNERAL SERVICES will be held on Monday, July 7, 2003 at 4 PM from the Nelson Funeral Home in Gaylord, Rev. Mark Vaporis, officiating. Visitation will be held on Monday from 1 PM until the time of services. Memorial contributions may be made to the family, through the Nelson Funeral Home, 135 N Center, Gaylord, MI 49735. 

Mr. Carvel A. Pearson 
Carvel A. Pearson, age 90, died Tuesday, July 29, 2003 in Traverse City. He was born on September 16, 1912 in Lake Placid, NY and resided the majority of his life in the Detroit area. He had lived in the Gaylord area from the early 1980’s until 2002. Mr. Pearson was a member of the St. Joseph Episcopal Church in Detroit for more than 30 years and was a member of St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Gaylord. He enjoyed music, playing the piano and was a soloist for various churches. He was loved by all and was at peace with God. Mr. Pearson is survived by his wife, Ann; his daughters, Sharon (Frederick) Kruse of Puerto Rico, Lynn Needham of Traverse City; grandchildren, Andrew Grosso, Nicole (Keith) Pool, Denise (Mike) Woods, Douglas (Jenni) Needham; great-grandchildren, Logan, Bradley and Gregory. Mr. Pearson is preceded in death by two brothers and a sister. Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2003 at 11 AM from St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church. Rev. Gerald Rehagen officiating. Burial will be in White Chapel Memorial Cemetery, Troy, MI on Friday. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 4-6 PM at the Nelson Funeral Home. Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mrs. Bessie M. Perry 
Bessie M. Perry, 103 of Vanderbilt died Sunday, August 3, 2003 at the Burr Adult Foster Care Home in Wolverine. Mrs. Perry was born April 10, 1900 in Deward (a small logging community south of Gaylord). She married Louie Sweeso and the couple lived in Vanderbilt for several years, farming. After his death she moved to Pontiac. While living in Pontiac she married her 2nd husband Louie Perry. They soon returned to Vanderbilt. Mr. Perry also preceded her in death. Mrs. Perry had been living at the Burr Adult Foster Care Home for a short time. She enjoyed going for rides and playing cards and loved to go out to eat. She had been a member of the Vanderbilt Community Church. Mrs. Perry is survived by her nieces and nephews, Elmer (Adeline) Ashley of Vanderbilt, Margie Vogt of Houghton, Roger (Collette) Ashley of West Virginia, Bonnie (Dave) Nash of Wolverine, and Herbert (Shirley) Ashley of Vanderbilt. FUNERAL SERVICES will be held on Wednesday, August 6, 2003 at 1 PM from the Nelson Funeral Home, in Gaylord, Rev. Frederick Nose, officiating. Burial will follow at Evergreen Hill Cemetery in Vanderbilt. Visitation at the nelson Funeral Home will be held on Tuesday, August 5, 2003 from 12:00 PM until 8 PM and on Wednesday from 11 AM until the time of services. Memorial contributions may be made to the Vanderbilt Community Church or to the charity of your choice, through the Nelson Funeral Home, 135 N Center, Gaylord, MI 49735 

Mr. Robert Perry 
Beloved husband, father, son, and brother, Robert Perry, age 29 of Gaylord died Saturday, June 21, 2003 at Northern Michigan Hospital in Petoskey. Mr. Perry was born on Dec. 26, 1973 in Grayling, MI., and spent most of his life there. He graduated from Grayling High School in 1993. After graduation he served in the U.S. Navy for four years. He was currently employed with Gadco Company in Waters. He was a member of the Port Huron Eagles, attended the Evangelical Free Church in Gaylord, and was an avid hunter, fisherman, and athlete. His family remembers him as being very artistic, a good athlete, and having a wonderful sense of humor. He is survived by his wife Billie (Sharrow), daughter Riley Faith Perry, and son Jeff Sharrow. Also surviving are his siblings, Victoria Robinson of Grayling, Steve Perry of Gaylord, Dorothy Kelly of Port Huron, Christine (Chuck) Stewart of Smiths Creek, William Perry of Grayling, Kevin Perry of Gaylord; his parents Bill and Louise Perry of Gaylord; and father and mother-in-law Donald Sharrow of Gaylord and Vicki Sharrow, also of Gaylord; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother Roger, and a sister, Tina Marie Robinson. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday. June 24, 2003 at 2:00 PM at the Nelson Funeral Home, the Rev. Tobias Neal, officiating. Visitation at the funeral home will be on Tuesday beginning at 11:30 AM until the time of services. Interment will be in Otsego Lake Twp. Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Riley Faith Perry Fund through the Nelson Funeral Home, 135 N. Center St. Gaylord, MI. 49735. 

Mrs. Joyce E. Ralston 
Joyce E. Ralston, 76 of Gaylord died Thursday, July 10, 2003 at Northern Michigan Hospital in Petoskey. Mrs. Ralston was born in Detroit on September 29, 1926 and was raised in Vanderbilt. She was a woman of “strong faith”. For 50 years she had been a “born again” Christian and has been attending the Vanderbilt Baptist Church. She was also a member of the VFW Auxiliary. Mrs. Ralston enjoyed crocheting quilting, and gardening. Most important to her was her family. On April 6, 1942 in Saginaw she married Clarence A. Ralston, who survives. Also surviving are 3 children, Jim (Margaret) of Oklahoma, Mary Norton & Terry (Michelle) all of Gaylord; 8 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; sister, Pat Burill of St Helen; brother, Lee (Joanne) Clapp of Clare. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Sharon Riness and her sister Kate Woodruff. FUNERAL SERVICES will be held on Monday, July 14, 2003 at 11 AM from the Nelson Funeral Home, Pastor Jerry Woodruff, officiating. Burial will follow at Evergreen Hill Cemetery in Vanderbilt. Visitation will be held on Sunday from 1-8 PM and on Monday from 10 AM until the time of services. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Dwight T. Richter 
Dwight T. Richter, 51 of Gaylord died Tuesday, July 15, 2003. Mr. Richter was born in Grand Rapids on July 19, 1951 and moved to Gaylord on July 4, 1981 from Wyoming, MI. He was a meat cutter for several of the area grocery stores, worked for Schwanns and was in sales at Tow-Brake International. He was a member of the Gaylord Community Church. On May 26, 1972 in Rockford he married the former Catherine Burt, who survives. Also surviving are his children, Edward (Susan) of Lakes of the North, Kristin (Scott) Boughner of Gaylord; 4 grandchildren, Alex, C.J., David and Gage; his parents, Albert & Doris Richter of Grand Rapids; one brother, David (Karen) of Grand Rapids; one sister, Cathie Richter of Cedar Springs. Mr. Richter was preceded in death by his brother Bruce in 1982. FUNERAL SERVICES will be held on Friday, July 18, 2003 at 11:00 AM from the Gaylord Community Church, Pastor Steve Scheer, officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Gaylord Community Church or to the Teddy Bear Fund of the First Congregational Church, through the Nelson Funeral Home. “Jesus was the Lord of Dwight’s life. His healing is complete now that he is with the Lord. We, Dwight’s family are very thankful to the Lord for giving us the gift of Dwight. We celebrate with him in spirit, in his new health, wholeness and peace”. 

Mr. Larry Albert Rogers 
Larry Albert Rogers, 75 of Lewiston died Monday, June 9, 2003 at Tendercare in Gaylord. Mr. Rogers was born in Dundee, MI on November 28, 1927 and moved to Lewiston in 1977 from Detroit. He served in the United States Navy during World War II. Mr. Rogers was an electrician by trade and a member of Local 58 in Detroit. He retired in 1994. He was also a member of the Lewiston American Legion. Mr. Rogers is survived by his wife of 53 years, Georgianne; 2 children, Dennis (Sharmin) of Gaylord and Sandy (Delbert) Curio of Lewiston; 5 grandchildren, Delbert Curio, Jr., Jean Curio, Allison, Sara and Karen Rogers; 1 great grandchild, Jayden Barnes; 3 sisters, Bernita Putnam of California, Marilyn Hochwender of Pennsylvania and Betty Foote of Washington. He was preceded in death by his great granddaughter, Michelle Curio. Private memorial services will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or to Hospice of Michigan, through the Nelson Funeral Home, 135 N Center, Gaylord, MI 49735. 

Mr. Michael D. Stahlbuck 
Michael D. Stahlbuck, 27 of Gaylord died Tuesday, August 5, 2003. Michael was born in Lapeer County on November 8, 1975. In 1976 he and his family moved to Wolverine for 10 years and then moved to Gaylord. He was a 1994 graduate of Gaylord High School and had been employed with Georgia Pacific the past 7 years. He enjoyed NASCAR and karate and was a wrestling fan. He is survived by his wife, Mandi; his children, Alex & Kennedy Stahlbuck, Nicholas Amaya, and Ethan & Andrew Berry; his parents, Ron & Pearl Stahlbuck of Gaylord; 2 sisters, Adeena (Greg) Whittaker of Wolverine and Andrea (Doug) Berkshire of Waters; brother, Matthew Stahlbuck of Gaylord; nephew, Zachariah Whittaker; father & mother-in-law, Jack & Dorothy Vaught of Frederic. FUNERAL SERVICES will be held on Thursday, August 7, 2003 at 11 AM from the Gaylord Community Church, Pastor Steve Scheer, officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery in Gaylord. Visitation at the Nelson Funeral Home will be held on Wednesday from 1-8 PM and on Thursday, at the church beginning at 10 AM. Memorial contributions may be made to the children of Michael Stahlbuck, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mrs. Marcella D. Trudnak 
Marcella D. Trudnak, 90 of Lewiston, died Wednesday, July 9, 2003 at her home. She was born in Glen Lyon, PA on October 28, 1912, the daughter of Michael & Mary Levulis. After retirement she moved to Port Richey, Florida from 1980-1995. She then moved to Reno, NV for a short time before moving to Lewiston, in 2001. While raising her children she was very involved in the school system. She was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Lewiston. She enjoyed baseball and especially loved watching the Chicago Cubs. Her husband, Stephen, along with 12 siblings, preceded Mrs. Trudnak in death. She is survived by her children, Marcia (Bernard) Albosta of Lewiston, MI, Stephen (Arden) of Naples, FL; 4 grandchildren, Karen (Michael) Armstrong of Calif., Bernard (Barrie) of Nevada & Clinton Twp., Matthew (Denise) of Calif., Mark (Anja) of Calif.; 6 great-grandchildren, Rebekah, Bernard, Stephen, Ryan, Nicholas & Michael; many nieces & nephews. FUNERAL SERVICES will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2003 at 12:00 PM from St. Francis Church in Lewiston, Father Gregory Kurutz, officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Saturday beginning at 10:00 AM. Burial will take place at St Francis Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Francis Church in Lewiston, through the Nelson Funeral Home, 135 N Center, Gaylord, MI 49735. 

Miss Kristen Ann Van Daele 
Kristen Ann Van Daele, 26 of Gaylord died Sunday, June 29, 2003. Kristen was born in Petoskey on October 31, 1976. She had just recently graduated from COPESD (the Cheboygan, Otsego, Presque Isle Educational Service Department.) Kristen was always happy and loved to be around people. Kristen is survived by her parents, Bob & Kathy Van Daele of Gaylord; her brother, Patrick (Jenny) Van Daele of Alanson; nieces, Lindsay & Kelsey; grandfather, John (Juaneta) Townsend; longtime caregivers, Leo & Sheryl Cody of Gaylord. She was preceded in death by her grandparents Victor and Barb Van Daele and Dorothy Townsend. FUNERAL SERVICES will be held on Tuesday, July 1, 2003 at 3 PM from the Nelson Funeral Home, Rev. Myron Von Seggern, officiating. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 10 AM until the time of services. Memorial contributions may be made to the Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Adam Wagar 
Adam L. Wagar, age 39 of Gaylord died Thursday, July 24th at Otsego Memorial Hospital. He was born on Sept. 27, 1963 in Wyandotte, and was raised in Gaylord. On Sept. 16, 1989 he married the former Kim Taylor. He graduated from Gaylord High School in 1981. He was one of the “Wagar Boys” with Wagar Motors in Gaylord. Adam enjoyed riding his motorcycle, skiing, and camping, and spent all of his time with his kids. He was a devoted family man, whose last 21 years were a “gift”. He is survived by his wife, Kim; 3 children, Jane, Hannah, and Nick; his parents Ford & Connie; brothers Ford III (Shann), Jeff (Mary VanDorp), Tom (Ann), Dan (Diane); mother & father-in-law, Gino (Sharon) Bozzer; sister & brothers-in-law, Michelle (Brian) Glasgo, Gina Bozzer, and Dan (Shelly) Bozzer. Also surviving are many nieces & nephews, Danny Jr., Lorin, Ben, Jill, Zac, and Caleb. Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 28th at 11:00 am from St. Mary Cathedral, Fr. John McCracken officiating. Visitation at the Nelson Funeral Home, Inc. will be on Saturday from 2-6, on Sunday from noon-6 pm., and at the church on Monday beginning at 10:00 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Adam Wagar to the Angel Fund at St. Mary’s through the Nelson Funeral Home, Inc. Funeral: Monday, July 28th, 11 AM, St. Mary Cathedral 

Mrs. H. Maxine Walden 
Maxine Walden, 84 of Gaylord died May 26, 2003. Mrs. Walden was born in Beerstown, IL on October 25, 1918. At the age of 13 she and her family moved to Detroit where she worked for Burroughs until 1972 at which time she moved to Frederic. While living in Frederic she worked for Bear Archery in Grayling until retiring in 1976. She had been living in Gaylord since 2001. Mrs. Walden is survived by 2 daughters, Sharon (Douglas) Kirkpatrick of Dearborn and Debbie (Jerry) Nowak of Gaylord; 8 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren. Her husband Gerald in 1991 and her son Ronald Walden preceded her in death. FUNERAL SERVICES will be held on Thursday, May 29, 2003 at 1 PM from the Nelson Funeral Home, Rev. John Naile, officiating. Visitation will be held on Thursday beginning at 11 AM. Memorial contributions may be made to the family, through the Nelson Funeral Home. 

Mr. Donald Carl Whittredge, Sr. 
Donald Carl Whittredge, Sr. 49 of Gaylord & Atlanta died Tuesday, June 10, 2003 at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Saginaw. Mr. Whittredge was born in Detroit on July 8, 1953. He is survived by his wife of 9 years, Sheree of Atlanta; 1 son, Donald C. Whittredge, II of Marquette; 3 sisters; 2 brothers; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Elemuel & Darlyss (Swanson) Whittredge and 1 brother. MEMORIAL SERVICES will be held on Tuesday, June 17, 2003 at 1:30 PM from the Nelson Funeral Home in Gaylord, Rev. John Naile, officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home on Tuesday beginning at 12:30 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society through the Nelson Funeral Home, 135 N Center, Gaylord, MI 49735.