Authorities Close in on 503 W Chestnut Street

This evening a resident at 503 W Chestnut here in Albion was apprehended for sending a threatening email to the US Federal Government. As soon as we have a name we will update you on the details.

OBITUARIES

Helen Louise (White) Hernandez
Helen was born in Montgomery, Michigan, on October 15, 1923, to Ray Albert White and Hazel Anne (Thorne) White.  She graduated from Montgomery High School in 1941 as Salutatorian.  Helen attended Michigan State College for three years, majoring in English and with a minor in Spanish.  She traveled to Mexico City, Mexico, for a summer course, whereupon she met her future husband, Abelardo Hernandez.  The marriage ended in divorce in 1971.

Helen and “Flash” raised their five children in Albion from 1947 to 1970.  She was involved as a Cub Scout leader and as a Camp Fire Girls leader during various stages of her children’s lives.  She was President of the Harrington P.T.A. from 1955-1956.  Helen worked at the Starr Commonwealth for Boys, and the Albion High School Library 1965-1968, and as a Headstart teacher in Athens, while completing her degree in Library Science at Western Michigan University. In 1971, she and the two youngest children moved to Blissfield, MI, whereupon she served as Librarian at Blissfield Middle School, and finally completing her Master’s Degree at the University of Toledo, OH.  Helen retired in 1986 and then returned to reside in Albion until moving to Spring Arbor Assisted Living in August of 2005.

Helen was very active in her faith life as first, a member of the United Methodist Church of Montgomery, secondly as a member of the First Baptist Church of Albion, where she sang in the choir, and finally as a member of the First United Methodist Church of Albion.

Helen enjoyed classical music, frequenting many of the programs offered at Albion College and other area institutions.  She also organized trips to Toledo, OH and Adrian, MI where she and many of her friends enjoyed operas and the like.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, two half sisters and one sister.  Surviving are one brother Delbert White (Montgomery, MI), three sons, Ralph (Annick) Hernandez, New Baltimore, MI; Thomas (Anne) Hernandez, Aloha, OR; John (Laura) Hernandez, Blissfield, MI, and two daughters, Nidia (James) Wolf, Albion, MI; and Ana Maria (Mark) Ahlenius, Lombard, OH; 15 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Pending arrangements are being made by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Chapels 517-629-9155.

Melissa “Missy” Ann Russell, 37 of Homer died early Saturday, Sept. 27.   She was born December 3, 1970 to Mark & Darlene (Arnett) Cousins.  Missy was employed at D. C.  Welding in Albion, Mid-American in Jackson, Tenneco in Litchfield, Progressive Dynamics and was a beautician for Touch of Class in Albion . She enjoyed her family and friends.

She is survived by her mother, Darlene Cousins of Homer; father, Mark Cousins of Albion; one daughter, Sierra Russell of Homer; two sons, Austin Russell of Homer, Preston Russell of   Homer; one sister, Brandy Cousins-Wellman of Homer; and grandfather, Otis Cousins                           of Albion.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Elizabeth Cousins and Richard and Alta Arnett.

Funeral service will be Friday at 2:00 p.m. at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, with Reverend David Trammell & Doug Fleury officiating.  Interment will follow at Albion Memory Gardens. Visitation will be one hour prior to service 1– 2 p.m.  Memorials are suggested to an educational fund for her children.

Herbert Damron, Sr,  85, of Tennessee, passed away Saturday, September 27, 2008 at his home in Sweetwater, TN.   Born May 12, 1923 in Tram, KY, he was the son of Will and Pearl  (Hall) Damron. He served in C.C.C. Camp at Mammoth Cave, Kentucky and moved to Albion, Jackson and Marshall  area in 1943.  Herbert was employed at Hayes-Albion in Jackson, Service Caster and McGraw Edison in Albion.   On July 20, 1943 he married Virginia Patrick, she preceded him in death on June 4, 2008.   He enjoyed spending winters in Florida , small game hunting, fishing and gardening.

Survivors include: two daughters, Rhonda Allen of  Sweetwater, TN. and Phyllis Churchill  of Arcadia, FL. two sons, Marvin & Mary Damron of Marshall, and Keith Damron                                       of  Jackson; one sister, Ruby Timberman  of   Madisonville, TN; one brother, Donald Gibson of   Albion; 7 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia, 3 sons; Darrell, Charles and Herbert, Jr., 2 sisters; Myrtle Blair and Mable Hall, and three brothers, Carl Gibson, Bill Gibson and Robert Damron.

Funeral service will be held Thursday, October 2, 1:30 PM, at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, with Reverend Jim Snyder officiating. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery. Visitation is scheduled for Wednesday, October 1st from 5:00-8:00 PM.  Memorials to Fellowship Church Building Fund would be appreciated.

Arrangements made by the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Homes. For more information, call (517) 629-7050. Also see the website at: www.kevintiddfuneralhome.com

Richard J. “Jim” Avery, 81, of Litchfield, passed away Saturday, September 27, 2008, at Hillsdale County Medical Care Facility in Hillsdale. Born March 5, 1927, in Homer, MI, he was the son of Melvin and Doris (Ossenheimer) Avery. He was a 1944 graduate of Homer High School. He served with the United States Navy during World War II from 1944-1946 and then with the United States Marines during the Korean War from 1950-1952. He was a milk hauler for M.M.P (Michigan Milk Producers), owning his own route. He later drove a car hauler, and then worked as a machine repairman for a road construction company in Detroit for 20 years. He also worked home construction in Florida, building sea walls. He was also a commercial fisherman. Jim wintered in Florida on Pine Island for 22 years. He collected and restored machinery and farm Implements. His memberships included the Homer V.F.W. Post, and the Litchfield American Legion Post. He especially enjoyed his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

On October 5, 1946, he married Helen J. (Smith), and she survives, along with 1 son,    Michael James (Lynn) Avery of Denham Springs, LA, 3 grandchildren, James, Kimberly, and Adam, 2 great grandchildren, Raya and Gavin, stepmother, Dorothy Avery of Marshall, and sister Ruth Ann Keifer of Palo Alto, California. He was preceded in death by his parents, a grandson Timothy Avery, and sister Betty Chase.

A funeral service will be held Tuesday, September 30, 2008, at 10:00 a.m., at the Finley Drive Chapel of the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive Albion, Michigan with Rev. Tim Marvil, officiating. Burial is in Fairview Cemetery. Visitation is scheduled for Monday, September 29 from 3-5 and 6:00-8:00 P.M., at the Funeral Home.

Assistance with Memorial Contributions to: Homer Area Community Foundation or the Homer Alumni Association is available at the Funeral Home.

Verl Ardith Sanderson died, at age 90, on September 25, 2008, at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo with her family present. She was born to Lilly Belle and Clare Smith in Hart, MI, on January 3, 1918. Upon her mother’s death when she was four years old, she was adopted by her paternal Aunt and Uncle, Lawrence and Grace Mason. They moved to Beaver, PA and returned to reside in Kalamazoo where Verl started school. Also preceding her in death were her husband, Wayne, in l987, after 47 years of marriage; siblings, Kathleen, Lawrence, Edward, Lamont; sisters-in-law, Lola and Ginny; brother-in-law, William Snyder; son-in-law, N. Wayne Kimble; and granddaughter-in-law, Paula Kimble. Surviving are her 4 children, Karen Kimble of Manistee and her friend, Jim Lent, Keith (Mary Kilchenstein) Sanderson of Maryland, Ardith (Bill) Richards of Albion, and LouAnne Dunham of Florida; 9 grandchildren, Scott, Kevin (Erica), and Josh Kimble, Peter (Brianna) and David Sanderson-Kilchenstein, Megan and Solomon (Sheila) Richards, and Karen Anne (Rich) Ward and Aaron (Deb) Dunham; 7 great-grandchildren, AJ and Charlot Dunham, Logan Ward, Jennifer, Megan and Sylvia Joyce Richards, Jordon Gilg and Jaden Delapas; and siblings and in-laws, Mary Alice (Larry) Glover, Donna Snyder (Bill d.), Marilyn (Larry d.) Smith, Roger (Lola d.) Smith, Mary E. (Lamont d.) Smith and Brad (Ginny d.) Smith. Verl was a graduate of Western State Teacher’s College and began her teaching career in Home Economics in Climax, MI. She was very creative in her teaching, starting the first hot lunch program, which was prepared by students, taught canning as a homemaking skill, never lacking for produce to can as much was donated by the students’ families. She tells some humorous and interesting stories of this career. As Verl focused on motherhood, she still gave much time to helping others as she was very giving in spirit and deed. She made loans to her children, loaned a car to a needy family, and worked tirelessly through the First Baptist Church of Kalamazoo to assist the migrant population. Her church affiliation with First Baptist Church had spanned a lifetime; at the time of her death, she was one of two living members with the longest membership. She excelled in gardening, knitting afghans and her infamous scrubbies. For the Christmas season, she made pounds and pounds of candies and cookies to give to friends. Later in life she worked in the dental office of Dr. William Spencer D.D.S., as an assistant, and then in the office of G.N. Sanderson Electric Company, the family business. Sadly, in her very latest years, the effects of several strokes denied her the use of her hands for her many craft interests. The family gratefully acknowledges the loving care of Jackie and Shirley for the past 9 months. Funeral services for Verl will be at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday at First Baptist Church, 315 W. Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo, with co-officiants the Rev. Dr. MaryBeth Sarhatt and the Rev. Chalmer Mastin. Friends may visit with the family from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the church. Interment will follow in Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park, Kalamazoo. Verl’s expressed choice for memorials is Housing Resources, Inc. (for the Eleanor Street House, shelter), 345 N. Burdick, Kalamazoo, MI. Condolences may be mailed to Ardith Richards, 18111 28 Mile Road, Albion, MI 49224. Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick Street, Kalamazoo. Online condolences may be left at www.langelands.com

Gaylord E. Grubaugh, age 67, of Marion Township, passed away at his home on Monday, September 22, 2008. Born July 16, 1941, in Jackson, MI, he was the son of Walter E. and Kathryn I. (Allen) Grubaugh. Gaylord was an Eagle Scout and 1959 graduate of Parma High School. A police officer for over 30 years, Gaylord served as a Deputy Sheriff for the Livingston County Sheriff’s Department for 27 years. He was an active member of Grace Lutheran Church, the Howell Masonic Lodge #38 F. & A. M. and enjoyed cooking, camping and leather work. Beloved husband of Earlene (Fritschka); loving father of David Hoag of West Palm Beach, FL, Steve (Carolina) Hoag of Parma, MI, Eugene (Penny) Grubaugh of Howell, MI, Anna Marie (Kris) Andrew of Brighton Twp., and Billy (Trish) Frech of California. Also survived by his mother, Kathryn Grubaugh of Parma, MI; sister, Beatrice (Elbert) Robinson of Albion, MI; eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father and brothers, Duane and Stanley.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Grace Lutheran Church or the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Please visit the family’s online guestbook at www.macdonaldsfuneralhome.com

Daniel F. Clark, age 54, passed away Thursday, September 25, 2008, at his home.  He was born on July 21, 1954, in Lansing , MI, to Frank D. and Sylvia (Anderson) Clark. On June 16, 1979, he married Wendy Anne (Myers). Daniel was a School Teacher at the Albion Public Schools, a professional chef for several area restaurants for 6 years and also for the Smithsonian Institute in Washington D.C. He coached Little League baseball and soccer. He was very active in his children and grandchildren’s lives. Dan enjoyed gardening, back packing, rescuing animals, feeding and watching his birds.

Survivors are his wife, Wendy Anne Clark of Albion; daughters, Sarah Clark of Marshall, Rebecca & Lloyd Harris, of Albion; father, Frank “Bud” Clark of Albion; sister, Carol & Mike Corey of Jonesville; sister-in-law,     Karen Clark of Grosse Point, grandchildren, Kaden Harris, Masen Smith, and Lilliana Nicole Harris and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Sylvia, and brother, David.

Funeral services for Daniel will be at 1:00 PM Wednesday, October 1, 2008, at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, MI, with Reverend Walt Nichols officiating.  Visitation will be two hours prior to service 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2008.  Memorials are suggested to the Calhoun County Humane Society and the Albion Recreation Department Baseball Program.

Annie L. Davis, age 94, of Albion passed away Thursday, September 25, 2008, at Allegiance Health in Jackson, Michigan.  She was born August 15, 1914, to Oscar and Josie L. (Horne) Wood in Alamo, Georgia.  On February 6, 1938, in Lumber City, Georgia, she married Theo Davis, who preceded her in death on March 14, 1991.

Annie has been a resident of Albion since 1952.  She was a 1973 graduate of Washington Gardner High School, receiving her G.E.D.  She was employed at County Farm Hospital in Marshall starting in 1956, before going to Sheldon Memorial Hospital and later Albion Community Hospital in Albion as a nurse’s assistant, retiring in 1976.  Annie was a member of John 3:16 Church of Albion.  Annie received Christ as her personal savior at the age of 5.

Annie is survived by 4 sons, Leo (Ruth) Davis, of Albion, Larry Davis, of Raleigh, NC, Joe (Carolyn) Davis, of Houston, TX, Walker Lee Davis, of Albion, 4 daughters, Lema Smith, of Albion, Bobbie (Andrew) Hamilton, of Albion, Melba Lois Cawthon, of Jackson, Doris L. (Arthur Lee) Jackson, of Battle Creek, 50 grandchildren, 55 great grandchildren, 30 great great grandchildren, and 1 brother, Lenas Wood, of Philadelphia, PA.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a son, James L. Davis, a daughter, Anne Parker, 4 sisters and 9 brothers.

Visitation for friends and family will be Thursday, October 2, 2008, from 2:00-4:00 and 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Erie Street Chapel of J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 208 W. Erie Street, Albion, MI. The Family Hour will be Friday, October 3, 2008, from 11:00 – 12:00 at Grace Temple Church of God in Christ, 711 Grace Street, Albion, Michigan.  Funeral services will be Friday, October 3, 2008, at Noon at Grace Temple Church of God in Christ with Apostle Timothy Kurtz officiating.  Burial will follow at Albion Memory Gardens Cemetery, Albion, MI.

Edward Dale Koch, 85, of Homer, passed away Thursday, September 25, 2008, at the Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice Residence in Battle Creek. He was born June 17, 1923, in Jackson, to William and Grace (Oldacre) Koch. On August 29, 1954, he married Esther Mason, who survives. Edward worked as a molder at Calhoun Foundry for 33 years. He enjoyed fishing, auto racing, baseball and working on cars.  He especially enjoyed being a part of the morning Coffee Club at the Stagecoach in Homer.

Survivors include his wife, Esther Koch of Homer, daughters, Bonnie Koch of Homer and Diana Koch of Albion, step-son, Dennis Sloan of Homer;
one sister, Mary Sandusky of Albion; and sister-in-law, Annie Sloan.

He was preceded in death by three sisters, Lulu, Doris and Edna.

No services are planned at this time. A graveside service will be held at a later date. There is no viewing or visitation. Memorials are suggested to Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice Residence in Battle Creek.

Arrangements made by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion. For more information, call (517) 629-7050.

Margaret Gregg, 91, of St. Ignace died early Saturday morning, Sept. 27, at Northern  Michigan  Regional  Hospital  in Petoskey.   She was born in Jackson on July 10, 1917. Her parents were Elza and May (Kivell) Conley.   She graduated from high school and married Robert Gregg on July 7, 1936, in Angola, Indiana. They were married 72 years and made their home in Homer, Michigan, until moving to St. Ignace in March, 1978.   They owned a laundromat in Homer for several years, and she was the bookkeeper for her husband’s construction business. She was a member of the Mackinac Straits Hospital Auxiliary and helped with the Touch of Craft in downtown St. Ignace.

She is survived by her husband, Robert; one daughter, Beverly and Jack Swope, St. Ignace; one grandson, David and Lisa Swope, St. Ignace; two great grandchildren, Corey and Chelsea.

She was preceded in death by a son, David in 1991, two brothers, Arthur and Stanley and two sisters, Leola and Clara.

Friends may call at Dodson Funeral Home on Monday from 10 to 11 a.m. when services will be held at the funeral home with Pastor James Balfour officiating.  There will be a visitation at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, Erie Street Chapel in Albion from 12 to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, with graveside service at the Fairview Cemetery in Homer at 3 p.m. Tuesday. Memorials are suggested to Homer Area Community Foundation.

Gwendolyn M. “Peg” Sweeter, age 87, of Albion  passed away Saturday, September 27, 2008, at her residence. She was born October 24, 1920, in Hudson, Michigan, to William H. and Hazel T. (Lett) Sharrar. On June 17, 1939, she was married to N.R. Ernest Sweeter in Bath, Michigan, who preceded her in death February 17, 1987.

Gwendolyn was a graduate of Washington Gardner High School in Albion; she worked at Eaton’s in Marshall during World War II, making airplane parts. She was a Homemaker. She has been a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Albion and was also a Deaconess of the Church.

She is survived by one son, Terry L. (Mindy) Sweeter of Albion; 10 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; and sister-in-law Mildred Sharrar of Albion.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband; a daughter, Linda Underwood, and two brothers, Gilbert and Wayne Sharrar.

Funeral Services will be Thursday October 2, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at the Finley Drive Chapel of the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, Michigan 49224, with Rev. John Sterner officiating. Burial will follow at Albion Memory Gardens. Visitation will begin Wednesday, October 1, from 3:00-5:00 and 7:00-9:00 at the Funeral Home.

Assistance with memorial contributions to American Diabetes is available at the funeral home.

Stewart L. Baker, 71, of Marshall, died at the Battle Creek Veterans Affairs Medical Facility Saturday, September 27, 2008. He was born in Albion, MI, to George and Edith (Sweet) Baker on March 10, 1937. He grew up in Albion and Marshall, graduated from Marshall High School and completed two years of college. Stewart served with the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Army in Vietnam and Korea and received three Purple Hearts. In 1994, he retired from Eaton Corporation where he was employed as a truck driver. He was previously employed by the U.S. Post Office. Stewart married Dianna M. Huff-Reincke on April 26, 1980. Surviving are Dianna, his wife of 28 years; daughter, Cheryl Camp of Pennsylvania; a sister, Lillian (David) Sebring of Marshall; stepdaughters, Lorraine (Tim) Minton of Coldwater, Annette Greene of Battle Creek, Lanette (Darin) Kent of Ypsilanti; three grandchildren; six stepgrandchildren; and one great-grandson. Stewart was preceded in death by his first wife, the former Marie Roundhouse, in 1978; by his stepmother, Jessie Baker; and by his stepson, Robert Reincke, in 1978, with whom he spent a lot of time talking about NASCAR. Stewart was a member of the D.A.V., the American Legion, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Marshall Moose Lodge #676 and he enjoyed watching his grandchildren play sports. Services to celebrate Stewart’s life will be held at Ft. Custer National Cemetery, with military honors, 12:00 Noon Friday, October 3, 2008. Arrangements are by Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Patient Activity and Recreation fund at the Battle Creek V.A. Medical Center.

Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com

Eleanor L. Hale, age 95, of Albion passed away peacefully Friday September 12, 2008 at the Laurels of Coldwater. She was born December 24, 1912 in Shelburn, Indiana  to Gus and Ethyll (Grigsby) McCoskey. On November 21, 1936, she married A. R .Hale in Angola, Indiana . He preceded her in death in 1971.

She was employed as a Quality Control Operator for Corning Glass retiring in 1975.Eleanor liked playing bingo and going up north.

She is survived by her daughter, Sydonna (John) Teinert of Homer; son Allen (Toni) Hale of Cullman, AL; four grandchildren, Shelby Hale, Johnny (Teresa) Teinert, Adam (Angela) Chapman and Brian (Lisa) Chapman; 9 great-grandchildren, Samantha, Joshua, Alexander, Alyssha, DeAngelo, Amber, Bradley, Chris and Dannielle and four great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a sister Joan Boehlke and a daughter Linda L. Chapman.

A Graveside Service will be held Friday, October 3 at 10:30 AM at Riverside Cemetery in Albion with Rev. James Snyder officiating. There will be no visitation. Assistance with memorial contributions to the Albion Community Foundation is available at J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive , Albion .

Arrangements made by the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Homes. For more information, call (517) 629-7050. Also see the website at: www.kevintiddfuneralhome.com

Herbert Damron, Sr,  85, of Tennessee, passed away Saturday, September 27, 2008 at his home in Sweetwater, TN.   Born May 12, 1923 in Tram, KY, he was the son of Will and Pearl  (Hall) Damron. He served in C.C.C. Camp at Mammoth Cave, Kentucky and moved to Albion, Jackson and Marshall  area in 1943.  Herbert was employed at Hayes-Albion in Jackson, Service Caster and McGraw Edison in Albion.   On July 20, 1943 he married Virginia Patrick, she preceded him in death on June 4, 2008.   He enjoyed spending winters in Florida , small game hunting, fishing and gardening.

Survivors include: 2 daughters, Rhonda Allen of  Sweetwater, TN. and Phyllis Churchill  of Arcadia, FL. 2 sons, Marvin & Mary Damron of Marshall, and Keith Damron                                       of  Jackson; 1 sister, Ruby Timberman  of   Madisonville, TN; 1 brother, Donald Gibson of   Albion; 7 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia, 3 sons; Darrell, Charles and Herbert, Jr., 2 sisters; Myrtle Blair and Mable Hall.

Funeral service will be held Thursday, October 2, 1:30 PM, at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, with Reverend Jim Snyder officiating. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery. Visitation is scheduled for Wednesday, October 1st from 5:00-8:00 PM.  Memorials to Fellowship Church Building Fund would be appreciated.

Arrangements made by the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Homes. For more information, call (517) 629-7050. Also see the website at: www.kevintiddfuneralhome.com

Cecil H. Simmons, of Albion, one of this worlds devoted Bluegrass Music Festival Fans went home to be with Jesus on September 29, 2008 at Allegiance Health Systems- Jackson, with his wife Vickie and others by his side. He was born July 28, 1945 in Marked Tree, Arkansas to Robert Ray and Bonnie Belle (Fulk) Simmons. He was married to Victoria “Vickie” Belcher and she survives.

Cecil had worked at Corning Glass Works, Brooks Foundry and Albion Malleable before going to work as a Prison Guard in Jackson, retiring in 1995. He was a member of Grace Freewill Baptist Church –Albion. He enjoyed sports especially Baseball, and loved Blue grass music. He had many friends in the Albion area including Johnny Smith as well as numerous Bluegrass Camping friends.

Cecil will be dearly missed by his wife Vickie and too many people to name.

Besides his wife, survivors include: Step-children  Beverlee (Terry) Swisz of Trenton, MI, Tonya Mead and Marvin Vaze of Pleasant Lake, MI, Jason Mead of Concord, MI, Jessica Mead of Ann Arbor, MI; 3 Step Grandchildren of Trenton; 2 Brothers   Lewis (Sue) Simmons, and Robert (Jean) Simmons; 2 Sisters,  Bonnie Ray (Roger) Dewitt, and Mae (Vic) Heinzelman of Sears, MI; Numerous Nieces, Nephews and Cousins and  Special Friends Deja and Bonnie Davenport of Delton, MI

His beloved Chihuahua “Roko”, was his steady Companion, and they loved each other dearly.

Cecil was preceded in death by a Sister, Ava Neil “Shorty” (Buddy) Coats of Earl, Arkansas.

Funeral Services will be Wednesday October 1, 2008 at 1:00 P.M. at Grace Freewill Baptist Church of Albion with Rev. Earl Martin officiating. R.J. Thomas, Red Martin and Band will be providing music for the Service. Visitation for family and friends will be Tuesday September 30, 2008 from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the Erie Street Chapel of the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home 208 W. Erie Street Albion, Michigan 49224.

Assistance with Memorial contributions to: Grace Freewill Baptist Church or The American Cancer Society is available at the Funeral Home.

Arrangements made by the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home. For more information, call (517) 629-9155. Also see the website at: www.jktiddfuneralhome.com

HOT DOG VENDOR FINDING SUCCESS IN ALBION

Dennis Reid’s Wonder Wagon hot dog stand is finding success in Albion. Whether downtown or at local businesses, the popular red and yellow stand is feeding a steady stream of hungry hot dog lovers.

To read the full story, see the article by John Grap in the Thursday, September 25 issue of the Battle Creek Enquirer, or go to the website at: http://tinyurl.com/4vjdy5

OBITUARIES

Brenda K. Losey, age 57, of Albion, passed away September 25, 2008 at her residence. She was born September 29, 1950 in Albion, Michigan to James D.L. and Janice V. (Stancroff) Staley. On May 23, 1987, Brenda married Carlyle “Curt” Losey in Tompkins, Michigan. Brenda has been a resident of the Calhoun-Jackson County area all of her life. She was a Homemaker and loved NASCAR especially Ryan Newman and was a huge University of Michigan Football Fan.

Brenda is survived by: Husband, Carlyle “Curt” of Albion, Michigan; five daughters, Amy Frederick and friend Dallas Prater Jr. of Homer, Michigan, Pamela (Matthew) Wycoff of Clio, Michigan, Michelle (Mark) Crippen of Eaton Rapids, Michigan, April (Joel) VanDouser of Dansville, Michigan, and Carla Losey and Fiancé Carl White of Hanover, Michigan;  two sons, Christopher Dean Frederick of Marenisco, Michigan, and Kevin Dean Frederick of Springport, Michigan; 14 grandchildren; three sisters, Karen (J.R.) Ryan of Albion;  Nancy (Donald) Esterline and Terry Kilbourn both of Marshall, Michigan; and brother, Michael Carothers of Jackson.

Besides her parents, Brenda was preceded in death by two sisters Barbara Benson and Cynthia Jean Zimmerman; and 2 Brothers Jerry Staley and Douglas Carothers.

Friends and Family may call at the Finley Drive Chapel of the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home 811 Finley Drive Albion, Michigan 49224 on Monday. September 29 from 3-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m..

Funeral services will be on Tuesday. September 30 at 1 p.m.. at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home with Deacon Carol Franssen officiating. Burial will be in Pope Cemetery.

THE FAMILY WOULD LIKE TO GIVE SPECIAL THANKS TO NICOLE AUSTIN FROM LIFESPAN GOOD SAMARITAN HOSPICE AND MICHIGAN CORRECTIONS ORGANIZATION FOR THEIR DONATIONS.

Assistance with memorial contributions to: Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice is available at the funeral home.

Arrangements made by the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home. For more information, call (517) 629-7050. Also see the website at: www.kevintiddfuneralhome.com

Joan Von Holten, age 65, of Albion  passed away Monday September 1, 2008 at Heartland Hospice of Jackson, Michigan. She was born July 31, 1943  in Huntington, Indiana  to John Jacob and Edythe  Arnetta  (Hillegas) Von Holten .

She was a graduate of Garrett Indiana High School , received her B.S from Ball State University- Muncie, Indiana; and her M.A from Central Michigan University. She taught Math and Science at Albion High School for 33 years from 1965 until her retirement in June of 1998. She also was a Tennis Coach at the High School. She was a member of the Michigan Education Association; Albion Education Association; Calhoun County Genealogical Society; and was the Treasurer of Sheridan Township from 1997-2002.

Survivors include: Mother, Edythe Arnetta Von Holten of Battle Creek, Mich; sister, Arnetta Von Holten of Albion; two nieces – Dawn Wainscott of Hillsdale, Mich, and Ariana Woods of Indiana; three nephews – John A. Von Holten of Salt Lake City, Utah,  Tony Von Holten of Auburn, Indiana, and  Ricky Ransbottom Jr. fo Albion; and special friend of Marilyn Hennon of Albion.

She was preceded in death by her father, John Jacob Von Holten ; brother, Jon Von Holten and a sister, Judy Von Holten.

According to her wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be a Memorial Service Saturday September 27 at 11 a.m. at the Finley Drive Chapel of the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home 811 Finley Drive Albion, Michigan 49224 with Rev. Walter H. Nichols Jr. officiating. Visitation for family and friends will be prior to the service from 10 – 11 a.m.. A Private Burial of cremains will take place at Riverside Cemetery, Albion.

Assistance with Memorial Contributions to: Albion District Library; Albion Community Foundation; or Michigan Diabetes is available at the Funeral Home.

Arrangements made by the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home. For more information, call (517) 629-7050. Also see the website at: www.kevintiddfuneralhome.com

Irene M. Frakes, age 65 of Albion, passed away Tuesday September 23, 2008 at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, Michigan. She was born October 14, 1942 to John A. and Frances S. (Mrozinski) Pinsky in Detroit, Michigan. She has been a resident of Albion for most of her life. She was a Quality Control Manager at Guardian Fiberglass of Albion until she retired. She enjoyed making jewelry and Teddy Bears

She is survived by: daughter, Terry Guzman, of Battle Creek; grandson, Dezray Guzman, of Albion; granddaughter, Daisha Welch, of Detroit; great grandson, Dominic Guzman, of Albion; sisters, Sally Mullins Boals, of Logan, OH, and  Frances Bidak-Koch, of Dana Point, CA; several nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a son, Rick Guzman.

According to her wishes, cremation has taken place and Visitation for family and friends will be Monday September 29 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Erie Street Chapel of the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home 208 West Erie Street Albion, Michigan 49224.

Graveside funeral services will be Monday September 29 at 2:30p.m.. at Albion Memory Gardens with Rev. Earl MartinOfficiating.

Assistance with Memorial Contributions to: The American Heart Association is available at the Erie Street Chapel of J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home.

Arrangements made by the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home. For more information, call (517) 629-9155. Also see the website at: www.jktiddfuneralhome.com

Cecil R. Turner, 47, of Albion, formerly of Detroit MI , passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 16, 2008 after a lengthy illness. Cecil R. Turner was born to the late Irene Prince and Charlie Turner on August 1, 1961 in Birmingham, Alabama .

Cecil attended Chadsay High School in Detroit, MI. He was known as a true dog lover. He accepted Christ at an early age and was a member of Grace Temple Church of God In Christ in Albion, MI. He reaffirmed his faith during his illness.

Cecil enjoyed Interior Decorating, Singing, Dominos and acting as a Comedian. He loved anything to do with a dog because he had a special way to communicate with them. He worked as a painter and took pride in each home. Cecil had a style about himself, a way with words; you knew when Cecil was in a room.

He leaves to mourn: his loving wife, Marilyn Turner of Albion, MI; one son Doniel Antoine of Flint; MI, one granddaughter Nika Marie of Flint, MI; one step-daughter, Shanta of Albion, MI,; one step-son, Elon of California; his father and step-mother: Charlie Turner (Helen) of Birmingham, Ala., two brothers, two sisters and one sister-in-law, Roderick (Sandretta ) George of Ferndale, MI , John Eric of Birmingham, AL, Janet and Adrian of Birmingham, AL, mother-in-law, Annie Newton of  Albion, MI, four aunts and three uncles, Gloria Moore of Birmingham, AL, Evelyn (James) Johnson of Detroit, MI, Meaola Bowman of Detroit MI, Willie Nell George of Detroit, Thomas George of Birmingham, AL, and Fred George of Detroit MI, one great-aunt, Margaret Bowman of Birmingham, AL; best friends, Cathey Pannell, Lewis Garrett, Linida Heard-Davis and Nancy Mims; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Irene and youngest brother, Matthew.

Funeral Services will be on Saturday, September 27  at 1 p.m. at the James H. Cole Home for Funerals, 2624 W. Grand Blvd., in Detroit. The Family Hour will be prior to the service from 12:30-1 p.m.

Albion arrangements made by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion .

For more information, call (517) 629-7050. Also see the website at: www.kevintiddfuneralhome.com

Edward Dale Koch,  85, of Homer, passed away Thursday, September 25, 2008, at the Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice Residence in Battle Creek. He was born June 17, 1923 in Jackson  to William and Grace (Oldacre ) Koch. On August 29, 1954 he married Esther Mason who survives. Edward worked as a molder at Calhoun Foundry for 33 years. He enjoyed fishing, auto racing, baseball and working on cars.  He especially enjoyed being a part of the morning Coffee Club at the Stagecoach in Homer.

Survivors include: wife, Esther Koch of Homer; daughters, Bonnie Coach of Homer and Dianna Coach of Albion; step-son, Dennis Sloan of Homer; and one sister, Mary Sandusky of Albion.

He was preceded in death by three sisters, Lulu, Doris and Edna.

No services are planned at this time.

A graveside service will be held at a later date. There is no viewing or visitation. Memorials are suggested to Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice Residence in Battle Creek.

Arrangements made by J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion. For more information, call (517) 629-7050. Also see the website at: www.kevintiddfuneralhome.com

ALBION COLLEGE NWAGNI PROJECT SERVES SPAGHETTI FUNDRAISER AT CASCARELL’S

Clean water for the African country of Cameroon may only be a bite away: the Albion College-based Nwagni Project and Cascarelli’s Restaurant offer a Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser on Thursday, Oct. 9, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Cascarelli’s Restaurant in downtown Albion.

Albion College senior Alex Begle, one of the founders of the Nwagni Project, said that it grew from a trip students made to Cameroon in 2005 as part of an Albion College first-year seminar on Africa. “Nwagni” means “school learning and education” in a Bantu language spoken throughout central Africa.  The students reached their initial goal last semester, a school building constructed in Batchingou, Cameroon, fully funded by the Nwagni Project. Now they are working on installing sustainable, environmentally-friendly, and inexpensive water purification systems in Batchingou, and providing desks and other school supplies to the students there.

“Cascarellis is giving the food and we are going to do the serving,” said Begle.  “We’re so excited that this dinner will be a success for our project.”

Tickets for the dinner are $6/person, and all proceeds go to the Nwagni Project. To reserve tickets or for further information, contact Erica Ahlich at 517-629-1391 or ema13@albion.edu

OBITUARY

H. Kevin Holdridge, age 44, of Albion, died at his home Sunday, September 21, 2008. Kevin was born October 7, 1963 in Jackson to Atwood Ferren and Carolyn Marcella (Miller) Holdridge. He attended Marshall Schools and served in the U.S. Army. Kevin lived in Las Vegas with his father. They worked together as stone masons until his father’s death. Kevin then returned to the Albion area and has lived there since. He has worked as a sales representative in the cutting tool industry. He was married on June 11, 1999 in Marshall’s United Methodist Church to Diana D. Stepp. Kevin loved time with his son. Riding their bicycles and fishing were favorite pastimes. He loved being outdoors and enjoyed Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. He liked to garden and landscape. For many years Kevin played softball and baseball at the Rice Creek Ball Park. There he coached his son Andrew’s baseball team and he also was the assistant coach of Andrew’s team in Marshall. Kevin read every day.

Surviving are his wife Diana; son, Andrew James Ferren Holdridge, and step-sons Nicholas Chase Joseph Yates and Wyatt Logan Charles Yates all of Albion; three brothers, George Arthur Holdridge of Duluth, MN Atwood Daniel Holdridge of Battle Creek and Michael Kelley Holdridge of Michigan; five sisters, Laury Jo (Jeff) Gish of Colorado, Tamara Ann Glasscock of Michigan, Helen Marcella (Martin) Quigley of Olivet, Linda Sue (William) Quigley of Springport, and Carolyn Marie Winter of Michigan; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends may call at Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home, 103 E. Mansion Street, in Marshall on Wednesday, September 24 from 2-9 p.m., with family present 2 -4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. to greet friends and share memories.

Funeral services celebrating his life will be held on Thursday, September 25 at 10:30 a.m. at the Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home with Rev. Thomas Fox of Homer United Methodist Church officiating.

Friends who wish may make memorial contributions to American Cancer Society. Assistance with memorials available at Kempf Funeral Home.

Arrangements by the Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home. For more information, call (269) 781-9858 or 877-583-7893. Also see the website at: www.kempffuneralhome. com

OBITUARIES

Luciano  (“Chano ” or “Louie”) Gonzalez, age 76 of Albion passed away Saturday, September 20, 2008 at his home.  He was born May 28, 1932 to Luis and Maria (de Jesus) Gonzalez in Taylor, Texas.  On July 6, 1951 he married Crus  Bocanegra  who survives him.

Luciano came to Albion when he was 18 and worked in the core room and heat treat departments at Hayes-Albion for 37 years, retiring in 1987. He was a member of St. John Catholic Church and the Latin American Club. He enjoyed fishing and gardening. Luciano was also quite musical; he was a singer and played the accordion and harmonica.

He is survived by: Wife, Crus Gonzalez, of Albion; two daughters, Margaret (Eduardo) Generi of Albion and Eva Leffew of Albion; five sons, Luciano (Nikki) Gonzalez Jr. of Midland, Johnny (Sherry) Gonzalez of Midland, Jessie Gonzalez of Traverse City, Valdemar (Donna) Gonzalez of Albion and Louis Gonzalez of Albion; 19 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Sofia and Elida, six brothers, Emanuel, Lorenzo, Elias, Jose, Baldemar, Jose Luis, and a grandson, Jasin.

According to his wishes, cremation has taken place.

Visitation for family and friends will be Wednesday, September 24 from 11 a.m. until 1:45 p.m. at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion.

Funeral service will follow Wednesday at 2 p.m. at St. John Catholic Church, 1020 Irwin Avenue, with Father Carl Peltz officiating.

Assistance with memorial contributions to the family for funeral expenses is available at the funeral home.

Arrangements made by the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home. For more information, call (517) 629-7050. Also see the website at: www.kevintiddfuneralhome.com

Anita K. Ratliff-Katz, age 49 of Colon, Michigan passed away Friday, September 19, 2008 at her residence. She was born January 20, 1959 in Albion, Michigan to Ervin and Juanita (Perry) Ratliff.

She was a 1977 Graduate of Homer High School. She was a billing director for Air Way in Oregon for 17 years, worked several years ago at True Grist Dinner Theater. She was a member of the P.N.A. in Battle Creek and she enjoyed watching and feeding the swans, along with boating and reading.

Anita is survived by: one son, Navin (Elizabeth) Ratliff-Katz, of Burt, MI; parents, Ervin (Juanita) Ratliff, of Homer; two brothers, Garvin Ratliff, of San Diego, CA; Levin “Lee” Ratliff, of Punta Gorda, FL; one grandbaby on the way and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded by her grandparents.

According to her wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation.

Funeral Service will be held Monday, September 29 at 1 p.m. at the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home, 811 Finley Drive, Albion, MI with Rev. Tim Marvil officiating.

Assistance with memorial contributions to the American Heart Association or American Cancer Society is available at the funeral home.

Arrangements made by the J. Kevin Tidd Funeral Home. For more information, call (517) 629-7050. Also see the website at: www.kevintiddfuneralhome.com

TWO PEOPLE REPORTED SHOT IN ALBION

Officers with the Albion Department of Public Safety responded to the scene of a shooting in the 200 block of Dalrymple Street in Albion early Sunday. September 21.

Shots were heard around 1:30 a.m. and ADPS officers found two shooting victims. The victims were taken to a local hospital and the shooting remains under investigation.

Anyone with information in regard to the shooting may contact the ADPS at (517) 629-3933, or through the Silent Observer at (517) 629-2700.

Band Rocks the Albion Annual Festival of the Forks 2008

Albion Ambulance RC Demonstrated