Richard Edmund Oakley, 84, of Allegan, passed away Saturday, May 2, 2020, at his home.

Born May 5, 1935, in Dearborn, he was the son of the late Russell and Gladys (Cox) Oakley and the wife of Janet (Jessie) Oakley.

Along with his wife of 64 years, Janet, Richard is survived by his three children, Karen E. Oakley, Stevan R. Oakley and Darrell R. Oakley; four grandchildren, Jeff, Alex, Theresa and Kara; and three great-grandchildren, Jaxon, Lyla, and Kallan. Richard is survived by two sisters, Alice Waskowitz and Gail Main; along with his sister-in-law, Paula Anderson and his brother-in-law, Dale Jessie.

He was preceded in death by his son, David P. Oakley; and his brother, Harry Oakley.

Richard was a loving husband and dedicated father. He was a devout Christian who devoted much of his life to serving others, in the capacity of a Sunday School teacher, lay pastor of the United Methodist Church, and as a Missionary for SOWERS, a group of volunteers who traveled around the country to build schools and camps or lend their help after natural disasters. Richard and his wife Janet spent 10 years living out of their RV while they ministered to those in need.

Richard retired from Detroit Edison, where he worked in many capacities from instrument and control supervisor of a nuclear power plant, to technical training specialist, where he set up and supervised a new training center. During this time he took a five-year hiatus and moved his family to Lake City, Mich., where he owned and operated Lake City TV Sales and Service.

Richard enjoyed boating and camping. He was an avid reader with a thirst for knowledge. He was proud of his service to his country as an Army veteran. In lieu of flowers the family would like donations made to Disabled Veterans at www.dav.org.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place and no services have been planned. Please visit www.gordenfuneral.com to sign the guestbook and/or send a condolence to the family.

John “Jack” Martin Zugel, 83, of Allegan, passed away on Wednesday, May 6, 2020, at Ascension Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo.

Born June 4, 1936, in Otsego, he was the son of the late John J. and Beatrice (Waldron) Zugel. He was a graduate from Allegan High School in 1954 and took several college courses at Vo tech of Allegan.

John was an extremely hard-working individual spending 13 years working at Harding’s Market and 23 years for Rockwell International, finally retiring from Stress Core after five years. Jack enjoyed bluegill fishing, gardening, playing “pay me” with family members and especially singing in the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church choir where he had also been a member of the Knights of Columbus. He had a deep love for family and thoroughly enjoyed his grandchildren.

Surviving are his loving wife of almost 58 years, Delphine C. (Korson) Zugel; son, Brian (Toni) Zugel; daughters, Lisa (Joel) Moul, Kara (James) Ferris and Janeen (Gary) Morris; grandchildren, Jennie Zugel, Harrison Zugel, Dr. Carmen (Charles) Frede, Erika Moul (fiancé CJ Mancini), Kiersten Moul, Alyssa (David) Huizingh, Nicholas Ferris and Keaton Morris; his siblings, Joan Edgerton, Helen Brabon, Ruth Hurst, Andrew Zugel, James Zugel, Mary Hart, Mike Zugel, Mark Zugel, Anna Zugel and Jane Thomas.

Jack was preceded in death by his sisters, Irma Steiger and Margaret Vandall; and his brother, Joseph Zugel.

Due to recent regulations, Jack will be laid to rest privately at Hudson Corners Cemetery. A Memorial Mass will be at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church at a later date.

His last three years were spent battling dementia, while his wife, Delphine, was his primary care provider. Dear Lord, please make sure he finds his way. No man deserves eternal peace as much as our beloved Jack. Jack enjoyed some of his daytime spent in daycare at Generations located at the Allegan County Medical Care Facility and appreciated the care he received through Wings of Hope Hospice. If anyone would like to make a donation in honor of Jack, these would be the recommended charities of choice.

LaVerne Patricia Crutchfield, 77, of Pullman, passed away Saturday, May 9, 2020, at her home.

She was born Feb. 28, 1943, to Felix and Rose (Myslinski) Ignowski in Chicago.

LaVerne married James Crutchfield on June 27, 1964, at Assumption Church in Chicago. They shared 48 years of marriage before his passing in 2012.

LaVerne worked as a secretary for the Booth Felt Company in Chicago before her eventual retirement. She loved crafting, playing cards, scrapbooking, and chatting with friends and family. LaVerne also enjoyed baking sweets for her family including banana bread, chocolate zucchini cake and “monster cookies”.

She is preceded in death along with her parents and husband by siblings, Christine Pavlacka, Gerry Sarto, Sy Ignowski, and Eugen Ignowski.

LaVerne is survived by her children, Janice (Mike) Curley of Pullman, Jim (Debbie) Crutchfield of Cookville, Tenn., and Joe (Diane) Crutchfield of Cookille, Tenn.; grandchildren, Jay Crutchfield, Joe D. Crutchfield, Lauren Curley, and Marty Curley; and great-grandchildren, Zakary Bowen and Jase Rollins.

Private family services will be held. Kindly share your thoughts and memories on the family’s online guestbook at www.FilbrandtFFH.com.

The family is being helped by the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven, 637-0333.

Jerry Frederick Hartman, 82, of Allegan, passed away Tuesday, May 12, 2020, in Allegan.

Born May 16, 1937, in Minster, Ohio, Jerry was the son of the late Howard and Mary (Dorsten) Hartman and the loving husband of Sanda (Giuliani) Hartman.

Jerry was a 1955 Allegan High School graduate and a 1959 graduate of Kalamazoo College majoring in economics and history. Jerry used his knowledge to become an innovative entrepreneur and had a true passion for business.

He thoroughly enjoyed others and loved socializing with friends and family at the Hartman Conference Center. Throughout his life he generously supported the community and the many charities closest to his heart. Jerry loved his devoted wife, children and grandchildren.

Along with his wife, Sanda, Jerry is survived by his son, Aaron (Pam) Hartman and his daughter, Lydia (Rich West) Hartman; his grandchildren, Emily, Andrew and Mary Hartman and Reese, Collin and Alyse Baughman; his brother, Jim (Pat) Hartman and sister, Diane (Tim) Wilcox; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Due to recent regulations, a private family Mass of Christian Burial will take place for Jerry at Blessed Sacrament Church Monday May 18 with inurnment to follow at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Cemetery. A celebration of life memorial for Jerry will take place at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made in Jerry’s name to two of his favorite charities: Shriners Hospital for Children, 2211 N. Oak Park Ave., Chicago, IL 60707, and Wings of Hope Hospice, 530 Linn St., Allegan, MI 49010.

Clifford Ashley St. John, 99, of Allegan, passed away Thursday, April 30, 2020, peacefully at home.

Born March 11, 1921, in Allegan, he was the son of the late Ivan and Bessie (Beery) St. John and was the husband of the late Virginia Carolyn (Janke) St. John.

Clifford was a veteran of World War II. He served proudly in the U.S. Navy as an electrician’s mate aboard the USS Waterman. His ship was anchored in Tokyo Bay during the signing of the surrender agreement by the Japanese which marked the end of the war.

Clifford returned to Allegan following his time in the service and eventually found himself working for Rockwell International. He retired after 35 years of dedicated employment.

Clifford was an avid bowler; he had bowled on senior leagues for over 30 years. He and his late wife had also enjoyed square dancing together for many years, especially when they danced on stage at the Allegan County Fair.

The couple were also longtime members of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Allegan. In his spare time, Clifford could be found in his beautiful flower gardens where he especially enjoyed tending to the roses and irises. He was fond of collecting stamps and coins and had been an amateur radio operator; his call sign was W8CAS.

Above all else, however, Clifford loved being surrounded by his family. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him joy beyond measure.

Clifford is survived by his children, Karen St. John (Dr. Carl Passal), Richard (Peggy) St. John and Sandra (Randy) Walker; grandchildren, Renee Passal (Aaron Nelson), David (Jessica) Passal, Jennifer (Justin) Bodine and Daniel Walker; great-grandchildren, Spencer, Elora, Weston, Elizabeth, Ammon, Elliot, Iroh and Parker; and his special friend, Millie Whitcomb.

In addition to his parents and his wife, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Louise, Lawrence, Gertrude, Kenneth and Donald St. John and Agnes Carlson.

Due to recent regulations, Clifford will be laid to rest privately at Hudson Corners Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be planned for a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1764 34th St., Allegan, MI 49010; or Wings of Hope Hospice; 530 Linn St., Allegan, MI 49010. Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Jean Christine Priebe born April 14, 1929, in Battle Creek passed away peacefully at her home in Otsego at the age of 91.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Bill Priebe.

A private family gathering will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Wings of Hope Hospice, 530 Linn St., Allegan, MI 49010. Online condolences may be left at www.materralstonfuneralhome.com.

Calvin (Cal) John Bird, age 70, of Plainwell, passed away peacefully at his home and into the arms of his Savior on May 11, 2020.

Calvin was born at Pennock Hospital in Hastings, to Melvin Rex Bird and Fannie Bell (Abbott) Bird on June 30, 1949.

Calvin was united in marriage to Shirley Ann Green on Dec. 16, 1968. Upon their marriage, Calvin lovingly took on the role of dad and provider to Shirley’s young daughter Tammy. Calvin and Shirley’s love and family continued to grow and on March 9, 1971, they welcomed their daughter Darcy into the world. Determined to receive his diploma, Calvin graduated alongside Tammy from Plainwell High School in 1986.

Calvin was a notable hard worker. He held various jobs throughout his adult life, including several years spent at Murco in Plainwell, before ultimately pursuing a truck driving career until his retirement.

Calvin enjoyed cars, trucks and anything with an engine in it. He loved to make his friends and family smile, as he always had a joke to share with them. Calvin’s unwavering faith in Christ Jesus was known to everyone he met. He wouldn’t let you leave without praying for you and saying, “God Bless You!” His joyful heart will be deeply missed.

Calvin is survived by his girlfriend, Donna Mead of Allegan; sisters, Eleanor Collins and Helena Molby of Kalamazoo; brother, Norman Bird of W.Va.; daughters, Tammy (Jon) Steinhauser of Otsego and Darcy (Pat) Netser of Frankfort, Ind.; grandchildren, Calvin (Nicole) Householder of Norfolk, Va., Chelsea Green (Ryan) of Allegan, Theron Lentz (Ariel) of Kalamazoo, Marlin Steinhauser of Kalamazoo, and Amanda Musson of Fraser; great-grandchildren, Eli, Evan and Delaney; along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Calvin was preceded in death by his wife Shirley; parents Melvin and Fannie; and brothers Art, Harold, Raymond and David.

John 3:16-17

Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Aug. 22, at Friendship Wesleyan Church in Plainwell.

Contributions in memory of Calvin may be made to Friendship Wesleyan Church, 1285 102nd Ave., Plainwell, MI 49080.

Charles “Chuck” Moore Sr., 78, of Otsego passed away Tuesday, May 19, 2020, at Stanford Lodge in Plainwell.

He was born April 1, 1942, in Otsego the son of Bill Sr. and Flora (Masten) Moore.

Chuck was an Eagle Scout and proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during Vietnam, serving in the Big Red One infantry.

For over 30 years he had been a machine tender operating machine #1 Big Moe at Menasha until his retirement.

He enjoyed coaching AYSO soccer, was a swim instructor and lifeguard at Shelp’s Resort at Pine Lake and was a Boy Scout Leader.

In his spare time Chuck enjoyed woodcarving and antique automobiles. He was a member of the Otsego Elks and a volunteer fireman for the Otsego Fire Department for many years.

On April 25, 1970, in Otsego he married Judeth Cary who survives. Also surviving are his children, Chuck Jr. (Jenny) Moore and Jaime Merriam, both of Otsego; grandchildren, Cassie (Chase) McPherson, Trey Moore, Emma Moore, Billy Merriam and Jillian Merriam; great-grandson, Clifford McPherson; siblings, Bill Jr. (Gay) Moore and Bonnie (Larry) Eakins; along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends may pay their final respects and have private viewing times Thursday, May 21, from noon-8 p.m. and Friday, May 22, from 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. A private family graveside service will be at Mountain Home Cemetery, Friday, May 22, at 3 p.m., with Celebrant Bill Rose officiating.

Contributions in memory of Chuck may be made to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan or Christian Neighbors. Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.

Jean Ann Milbocker (Hale), aged 80, passed away suddenly of natural causes on May 19, 2020.

Born to Jack Hale and Marguerite Hale (Benson) Bloss on Aug. 7, 1939.

Jean attended Allegan High School, graduating in 1957, and Borgess School of Nursing Class of 1960.

She married the love of her life, Robert (Moe) Milbocker, on Sept. 10, 1960.

Always positive and upbeat, she felt blessed by her loving friendships and her family. She made her home open to all, including animals, with some becoming beloved pets. If someone didn’t have a place to go, they were welcome to become a part of the family. People dropping by just to say “hi” brought her great joy.

Jean was a nurse at Allegan General Hospital for many years, a den mother for Cub Scouts, and a lifelong Democrat, doing extensive volunteer work. She also sat on several county boards, including Allegan County Family Planning, Allegan County RCA, and Sunset House.

Jean loved her home and enthusiastically decorated it to celebrate the holidays with her loved ones. She always looked forward to getting together with her friends, shopping, weekend trips to Chicago and taking in the sights, as well as traveling with Moe throughout the US, Canada, and Bahamas. Jean and Moe spent several winters on the Alabama coast, visiting with friends and relatives.

She is survived by daughter, Debra (Ian) Thorburn, Bryce, Maeve, and Madelaine; daughter, Teresa (Scott) Southwick, Autumn (David) Vanliere, Chase, Lydia, Brooke Southwick, and Forrest (Brittany) Southwick, Gunner, Andreya; son, Patrick Milbocker, Dakota (stepson); sister, Kathy (Dick) Caine of California; sisters-in-law, Julia Milbocker (Wayne Burton), Darlene Milbocker, Shirley Milbocker, and Vera Milbocker; brother-in-law, Michael (Onalee) Milbocker; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Milbocker; daughter-in-law, Kim Milbocker; brothers-in-law, Buster Milbocker, Jim Milbocker, Gene Milbocker, and David Milbocker; and sister-in-law, Colleen Milbocker.

Cremation has taken place and there will be a celebration of life at a later date.

Jean will be lovingly remembered for her crazy leopard prints, sweatsuits, music playing throughout the house, assorted ice cream bars stocked in the freezer for the grandkids, beautiful flower gardens and her loving spirit, which will be eternally celebrated.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations to be made to The Allegan County Community Foundation or a local food pantry of one’s choice.

Norma Louise (Butler) Kerber, 82 of Hopkins passed away Tuesday, May 19, 2020, at Metro Health Hospital in Wyoming, Mich.

Born May 2, 1938, in Orangeville Township, she was the daughter of the late Harold Butler and the late Opal (Armentrout) and Carl Golle.

Norma was the wife of the late Richard Kerber and was also preceded in death by her sister, Peggy Meninga.

Norma was raised in Martin by her grandparents, John and Mary Armentrout, and later relocated to Hopkins after marrying.

She owned and operated Norma’s Beauty Shop in Hopkins and was a dedicated member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.

When time and weather permitted, Norma enjoyed getting out and playing a round or two of golf. She also loved to socialize on her euchre and bowling leagues. Being a true and loving mother and grandmother, one could always find Norma attending any of the grandchildren’s sporting events or band concerts. She was a very supportive and loving mother and grandmother and exceptionally proud of her family.

Norma leaves behind her children, Michael (Betsey) Kerber and Melissa “Missy” (David) Black; four grandchildren, Kendra (Travis) Stickler, Madison Kerber, Kayl Black and Brody Black; one great-grandson, Braeden Larr; and one great-granddaughter on the way in September.

Due to recent regulations, a private family service will take place for Norma with interment to follow at Maplewood Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made in Norma’s name to Metro Health Hospital Foundation, 5900 Byron Center Ave., Wyoming, MI 49519; St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 2907 24th St., Hopkins, MI 49328; or Hopkins High School Booster Clubs, c/o Hopkins High School, 333 Clark St., Hopkins, MI 49328.

Gorden Funeral Residence, Hopkins Chapel, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Joyce Schmidt of N. Fort Myers, Fla., formerly of Hopkins, passed away at her home on May 16, 2020.

She was born on Nov. 17, 1925, in Fremont to Herman Deur and Anna VanHemert Deur.

In 1947 she graduated Calvin College in Grand Rapids with a nursing degree with advanced training at Blodgett Memorial Hospital. She continued her training at FIU in Miami. Mrs. Schmidt worked as a nurse in Texas, Michigan and Florida, finishing at Southwest Florida Regional Hospital, Fort Myers.

She married Melbourne Louis Schmidt on July 15, 1947, in Bowling Green, Ohio; he passed away Jan. 20, 1998.

She moved to North Fort Myers in 1976. Mrs. Schmidt enjoyed crafts, crocheting, making family Christmas ornaments, spending time and volunteering with her church family at Holy Trinity Presbyterian Church in North Fort Myers. She was a Life Member and Past President of Florida Association of Quality Assurance Professionals.

Mrs. Schmidt is survived by her loving family including her children, Fred and Roberta Palmer of Ocala, Fla., Al and Karen Kornoelje of Shelbyville, David and Sandy Schmidt of Whitehouse, Ohio, Tom and Nancy Scobey of Hopkins, Linda Schmidt of Howard City, Richard and Sandy Schmidt of North Fort Myers, Fla.; sister, Eunice Snieder of Grant; daughter-in-law, Joyce Ward of Grand Rapids; sister-in-law, Jean Deur of Fremont; sister-in-law, Angie Schmidt of West Palm Beach, Fla.; 15 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to her parents and husband, she is preceded in death by two sons, Ronald James Schmidt and Steven Lewis Schmidt.

More details and photos can be found at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/cape-coral-fl/joyce-schmidt-9....

Donations in her memory can be made to Holy Trinity Presbyterian Church at 19251 N. Tamiami Trail, N. Fort Myers, FL 33903.

Due to the current situation with COVID, a Memorial Celebration will be at a later date. Please continue to check the website for details.

Lawrence Carl Unger, 80, of St. Joseph, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 22, 2020, at Spectrum Lakeland Hospital in St. Joseph.

A graveside service will be at 1 p.m., Wednesday, May 27, at Hudson Corners Cemetery, Allegan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the Lakeland COVID-19 Response Fund https://give.spectrumhealth.org/lakeland/covid. Those wishing to leave an online condolence for the family may do so at www.starks-menchinger.com.

Larry was born Oct. 23, 1939, in Allegan to Carl and Minnie (Nicolai) Unger.

After high school, Larry attended the Radio Electronic Television Schools in Grand Rapids. He went to work for Heath Company before enlisting in the U.S. Navy. Larry proudly served on the USS Lowry as a radar repairman until his honorable discharge in 1966. Afterwards, he returned to Heath Zenith until 1980 when he began working for Printek as an electrical design engineer until his recent retirement.

Larry most enjoyed spending time on his boat, cruising slowly up the coastline and spending time with his family. He also enjoyed classic cars and never missed a chance to visit an antique car show in the summer.

Larry will be missed dearly by his wife, Darlene (Dodge) Unger, whom he married Oct. 5, 1968, in Hopkins; his daughter, Cassondra (Paul) Kippes; his granddaughter, Caitlin Kippes; his brother, Ken (Donna) Unger; and his nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Ruth Clawson.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Starks Family Funeral Home, St. Joseph.

 On Friday, May 22, 2020, Rani Lee (Yennelli) Johnson, 71, of Allegan passed away peacefully at Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo.

She was born on Nov. 14, 1948, to Samuel and Barbara Yennelli in Allegan.

Rani graduated with honors from Allegan High School in 1966 and attended both Ferris State University and Western Michigan University.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Cynthia Hahn, and is survived by her son, Dominick Johnson and granddaughter Rachel Lee Johnson.

My Mom was an avid reader and known for her boisterous laugh and zany sense of humor.

As a lifelong resident of Allegan, over the years, many people in the community helped my Mom with all sorts of different things; our family deeply appreciates everything all of you did. Specifically, I would like to thank Lori Mills and Beverly Kluzak for their years of great care and true kindness—my Mother loved you both, thank you for bringing her peace.

According to her wishes, cremation has taken place. Burial of ashes will take place at Hudson Corners Cemetery. Contributions in memory of Rani may be made to Allegan County Medical Care Community. Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.

Lorraine Sophie Nelson Johnson, age 92, died at home in Plainwell on Wednesday, May 20, 2020.

Born March 8, 1928, in Chicago, Lorraine attended Steinmetz High School, North Park Junior College and Carthage College. She married Charles Henry Johnson in 1948 and together they lived in Greencastle, Ind., and Stevens Point, Wis., before moving to Plainwell. Lorraine taught at Pitch Elementary School in Wisconsin Rapids, Wis., for many years. Lorraine and Charles were married for 56 years before his death in 2004. She was a member of Hope Lutheran Church in Plainwell.

Survivors include her son Charles (Chip) Johnson; daughter Christine Johnson (John Swenson); grandchildren Sarah Johnson (George Houhanisin), Jessica Roberts (Sam Roberts), Abbey Johnson, Annika Swenson (Caleb Babcock), and Sophia Swenson; grandchildren through marriage, Jake Beyer and Emily Beyer; and great-grandchildren, Gregory and Simon Houhanisin.

Lorraine was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Charles Johnson; her daughter, Jennifer Johnson; and her daughter-in-law, Amber Tiefenthal Johnson.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, plans for services have not been finalized. Please contact family for details or consult the McCowen & Secord Family Funeral Home website, www.mccowensecord.com.

Memorial contributions are welcome and should be mailed to the Wings of Hope Hospice, 530 Linn St., Allegan, MI 49010 or online at www.wingsofhopehospice.com.

Jerry Willis Oetman of Otsego passed away peacefully at home of natural causes on May 26, 2020.

Jerry was born April 23, 1932, the oldest son of Viva and Clarence Oetman. Jerry was a lifelong resident of the Otsego area, where he worked as a draftsman and at local paper mills as well as at Rockwell Int. in Allegan.

He married Illene Ballay in 1952 and together they raised five children on the family farm in Watson Township: Debi (Chris) Kraft of Chesterfield; Mike (Donna) Oetman of Rockford; Major David (Erika) Oetman (deceased 2018); Kathy (Jon) Rockwood of Muskegon, and Joni (John) VanNieuwenhuyzen of Shelbyville.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, his brother LaVern Oetman and son David Lee Oetman.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, four of his children, and sisters Janet Lamb and Marlene Wearne of Plainwell. Grandpa Jerry was also adored by 15 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Jerry loved the outdoors and had a strong connection with nature and animals. His sheep and geese were a common sight on the hillside of Schnable Creek and he could identify every tree in the woods on his farm. He enjoyed attending grandchildren’s events, playing dominoes, and his “Breakfast Club” at McDonalds. His analytical mind led him to be quite skilled at Sudoku and jigsaw puzzles, often working over the winter months on puzzles up to 9,000 pieces!

Tinkering with old farm equipment was one of his talents, which he shared readily with farm neighbors. He was involved in Allegan County 4-H for over 40 years, specifically the Watson Corners Livestock Club.

Jerry will be remembered for his quiet, steady nature—a man of few words who always had a twinkle in his eye.

Jerry will be interred at Maplewood Cemetery in Hopkins. Due to national circumstances, a memorial celebration of Jerry’s life will be at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to Allegan County 4-H or Wings of Hope Hospice. Messages of condolence may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.

In Loving Memory of Leona Mae Perry Hendrick of Dorr, born June 5, 1942, free of pain and suffering May 26, 2020.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father, Ruth and Charles Perry; her sister and brother-in-law, Norma and John Rich; her brother and sister-in-law Charles and Hattie Perry; and her sister, Diane Perry.

Surviving are her brother and sister-in-law, Carl and Nancy Perry; her sister and brother-in-law, Ruth Ann and Phil Kamyszek; her son, Thomas Silverthorn; her daughter and son-in-law, Renee and Ronald DeShano Jr.; her daughter and son-in-law, Michelle and Rodney Palmer; her daughter and son-in-law Melissa and William Embree; grandchildren Robert III, Tricia, Stephanie, Vanessa, Natasha, Brittney, Cody and Collen, Cory, Shane and Colton; great-grandchildren Anibal, Megan, Alexander, Dylan, Corrina, Samantha, Steven, Wendi, Charles III, Daniel, Breanna, Damine, Caylee, Raven, Yalexsis, Pedro, and Evelyn; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

William “Bill” George Balgoyen, 84, of Allegan, passed away peacefully Thursday, May 21, 2020, at Wings Home in Allegan.

Born Dec. 28, 1935, in Allegan, he was the son of the late Marvin Thomas Balgoyen and Francis McConney Balgoyen and was the husband of Solveig “Tita” Balgoyen. Bill was born the middle of five children in the farmhouse where he lived his entire life.

A class of 1954 Allegan High School graduate, he went on to serve our county honorably in the U.S. Naval forces for two years before returning home to the family fruit farm.

Bill met the love of his life, Tita, when she was visiting family next door after traveling across the sea from Norway.

Bill took over the family farm in his early twenties after the unexpected passing of his father. He and Tita purchased Orchard Hill Farm and would go on to raise many varieties of fruit as well as owning a herd of quality brood cattle.

Bill was recognizable in a crowd with his signature polka dot welding cap and a warm smile. He strove hard to provide for his family in an agricultural business where mother nature and the market can be very unpredictable. He would prevail through many tough times with his faith and family by his side as one year can be a bumper crop and the next a complete freeze out. Bill’s niche was raising the best local fruit as demonstrated every year by his loyal customers. His Red Haven peaches were simply second to none and, among the many varieties of apples, of note was the Northern Spy—simply perfect for pie making.

Not only did Bill and Tita’s five children learn the value of hard work growing up on the farm, numerous local teenagers and young adults did as well. Cherry picking time was a favorite time of year with all hands on deck through July. Bill cared about all who worked on the farm, young and old alike.

Bill possessed a deep Christian faith. He was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church where he and Tita attended regularly and many times served as ushers. The two also enjoyed traveling in later years with trips to Norway, Australia, China and Italy. One of their last big trips together was his bucket-list trip to drive from Michigan to the west coast where he was stationed in the Navy to Arizona and home.

He and Tita would enjoy many winters enjoying the sunshine while visiting family in Arizona; he really looked forward to that time of year as he loved the heat!

Bill also served Valley Township for many years on the Board of Review and was a member of the Allegan Masonic Lodge No. 111 for 52 years.

In addition to his beloved wife, Tita, Bill is survived by his children, Eric (Amy) Balgoyen, Ken Balgoyen, Marvin Balgoyen, Paul Balgoyen and Nora Balgoyen-Williams; his brother LJ Balgoyen; sister Laurel (Art) Teusink; and eight grandchildren.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers and sisters-in law, Tom (Barb) Balgoyen and Dean (Ruthie) Balgoyen; and his son-in-law, Don Williams.

The family is planning a celebration of life memorial to be scheduled sometime this summer. Our deepest gratitude to the hospice staff for your caring services.

Memorial contributions may be made to Wings of Hope Hospice, 530 Linn St., Allegan, MI 49010 or at www.wingsofhopehospice.com.

Shirley M. Robinson, age 88, of Allegan, passed away Thursday, May 28, 2020.

Shirley was born Sept. 5, 1931, in South Haven, the daughter of the late Orlo and Frances Vanderboegh and had lived the majority of her life in Allegan.

Shirley was a true Christian and loved her Lord. She and her late husband George were longtime members of Allegan United Methodist Church, later attending the Holland Church of the Nazarene for many years.

She loved her birds and enjoyed sending cards and letters to her family and friends. In her younger days, Shirley loved to polka and enjoyed playing music.

Surviving are her three children, Debra Robinson, Fred Robinson, and Brian (Susan) Robinson; grandchildren, Lauren (Luke) Olmstead, Taylor (Serena) Robinson, Quinn Robinson, Ashley (John) Burmeister, and Mallory (Mitch) Blacksten; great-grandchildren, Elliot Olmstead, Kylee and Makenzie Burmeister, Mckinley and Maverick Blacksten; a sister, Beverley Rydecki; beloved friend, Edna Hatfield, who cared for Shirley the past 8-and-a-half years; and Shirley’s loving dog, Sukey.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George, who passed in 2012; and daughter-in-law, Ronda Robinson.

Private graveside services have taken place at Hudson Corners Cemetery, Allegan Township. A public memorial service will take place at a later date, once finalized details will be posted.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Wounded Warriors Foundation. Arrangements entrusted to the Gobles Chapel, D. L. Miller Funeral Home, www.dlmillerfuneralhome.com.

Willie Lee Bugg (Bill), 72, of Pullman, passed away Friday, May 22, 2020, surrounded by family at the home of his sister Barbara (David) Kolhoff after a long battle with lung cancer.

Bill was born in Centerville,Tenn., to Morgan and Christeen (Kelley) Bugg.

He loved his life as a long-haul truck driver travelling through the continental United States, Canada and Mexico. He most recently resided in Pullman.

Bill was preceded in death by both his parents; brother, James Alvin Bugg; and a son, B.J. Bugg.

He is survived by his son, Brian Finley; sister, Barbara (David) Kolhoff; brother, Gregory Bugg; an aunt, Alma Kelley; several nieces and nephews, including Amy (Fernando) Gonzalez, Lesley (Jason) Kibiloski, Brent (Jennifer) Kolhoff; and many cousins.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Holland. Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will take place at a later date.

Milton K. (Red) Strand passed away on May 10, 2020, in Princess Anne, Md.

He was born on Aug. 11, 1932, in Kalamazoo, the son of Carl and Mildred Strand.

He was a 1950 graduate of Allegan High School, received an associate degree in agriculture from Michigan State University and managed several grain elevators around Michigan before returning to live in Allegan County.

He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War.

He loved to spend time in his cabin near Mesick and deer hunting with his friends. He was a Mason for 63 years and was Past Master of Allegan Masonic Lodge 111.

In 1955, he married Frances Wightman who predeceased him in 2016.

He is survived by his son Brad (Joy) Strand of Maryland, daughter-in-law Marve Strand, and granddaughter MJ of North Dakota; brother Fred (Bonnie) Strand; sister Joyce (George) Galloway; several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his wife, son Mark, grandson Travis Strand, three sisters and one brother.

Milton was a quiet man who was very courageous.

Per his wishes, cremation has taken place, and no service is planned at this time.