HURON DAILY TRIBUNE, Bad Axe, Huron County, Michigan

Local obituaries for the week beginning April 15, 2007


Contributed 2007 by Carol Morrison for use in the USGenWeb Archives.

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Sunday, April 15, 2007 – No obituaries reported


Monday, April 16, 2007


Gazella Brudnyak

Gazella Brudnyak, 90, of Sherman Township near Harbor Beach, passed away Friday, 
April 13, 2007, at Memorial Health Care in Owosso.   She was born October 11, 1916 in 
McKeesport, Pennsylvania to the late Casper and Mary Dubaj.   On September 4, 1937, 
Gazella and Nicolas Brudnyak were united in marriage in Flint. He preceded her in death 
on November 30, 1997.   Gazella enjoyed polka music and gardening.   She is survived 
by two sons, Dennis Brudnyak, of Holly, and Daniel Brudnyak, of Mason; one daughter, 
Susan Bagale, of Pueblo, Colorado; seven grandchildren, Eric, Tracy, Allie, Amy, Lisa, 
Danny, and Jenny; and 10 great grandchildren; one sister, Helen Broom, of Swartz Creek.   
She was preceded in death by three brothers, Henry, Edward, and James Dubaj. A funeral 
service will be at 3 p.m. on Monday, April 16, 2007, in the Ramsey Funeral Home, 
Harbor Beach, with burial in the Rock Falls Cemetery.   Visitation will be from noon 
until the time of the service on Monday. 


Robert Howard Forbes

Robert Howard Forbes, 86, of 2868 Bay Drive, passed away on Friday, April 13, 2007.   
He was born September 7, 1920.    After 40 years of employment with Michigan Bell, 
Bob retired with his beloved wife, Musetta, who preceded him in death in 1994, to their 
dream home on the lake which they hand-built themselves.     A supportive, warm, 
loving, and wonderful father and grandfather, Bob will be missed by a surviving son, 
Michael; daughters, Diane and Lori; and grandchildren, Shelby, Jay, Erin, Jason, 
Shannon, and Isabelle.   Cremation has taken place at Sunset Valley Crematory in Bay 
City.   Arrangements are being handled by the Knoblock Funeral Home in Kinde. 


Christopher P. Heckroth

Christopher P. Heckroth, 23, of Cass City, died Sunday, April 15, 2007 in Tuscola 
County from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. He was born August 30, 1983 
in Cass City to Ann (Pobanz) Heckroth and Daniel Heckroth.   He married Stephanie 
Willet on June 26, 2006 in Cass City.   Chris graduated from Cass City High School in 
2002. He worked for Total Com Pro Graphics in Cass City as their graphics center 
manager and loved to climb their cellular towers. He loved computers and technology. 
He loved to tinker and to take things apart and put them back together. Chris served with 
the Cass City Fire Department for nearly three years. He loved his work as a fireman and 
took that responsibility very seriously. Chris loved life. He enjoyed truck racing, 
motorcycles, hunting and fishing. Chris had a very special relationship with his sister, 
Stephanie. He loved her with all his heart.   Chris is survived by his wife, Stephanie; 
mother, Ann Heckroth and her fiancé, Greg Meyers, of Cass City; father, Dan (Heather) 
Heckroth, of Cass City; sister, Stephanie Grace Heckroth, of Cass City; half sister, 
Jennifer P. Heckroth, of Cass City; grandparents, Keith and Joann Pobanz, of Cass City, 
Paul W. Heckroth, of Deford; great grandfather, Clarence Pobanz, of Warren; aunts and 
uncles, Suzanne Pobanz, of Bremerton, Washington, Kelly Ann (Kelly) Smith, of Cass 
City, Keith (Laura) Pobanz, of Columbus, Vicky (Tim) Sontag, of Silverdale, 
Washington, Rick (Joyce) Pobanz, of Bremerton, Washington, Tim (Vicky) Heckroth, of 
Spencer, Iowa, Karen (Matt) Cooper, of Wichita, Kansas, Jan (Jeff) Tuckey, of Cass City, 
Paula (John) Walker, of Caro, Ron (Raine) Heckroth, of Pontiac, Randall (Shelley) 
Heckroth, of Caro; Dale (Donna) Rabideau, of Omaha, Nebraska, Dean (Tina) Rabideau, 
of Cass City, Dave (Jen) Rabideau, of Decker, Darin (Trisch) Rabideau, of Winder, 
Georgia; and many cousins.   He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Donna 
Heckroth, and his aunt, Nancy Stokes.   A funeral service will be at 11:15 a.m. on 
Thursday, April 19, 2007, in St. Pancratius Catholic Church with the Rev. Stephen J. 
Fillion officiating.   Visitation is from 7 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. on 
Wednesday in Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City, and from 10:15 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. on 
Thursday in St. Pancratius Catholic Church. A vigil service will be at 7:30 p.m. on 
Wednesday in the funeral home.   Memorials may be made to the Stephanie G. Heckroth 
Education Fund. Interment will be in Elkland Township Cemetery. Family and friends 
may share memories, prayers, and stories with the family at www.kranzfuneralhome.com.  


George Hough

George Hough, 85, of Owendale, died Thursday, April 12, 2007, at Huron Valley 
Medical Care Facility.   He was born August 4, 1921 in Morenci to Dorus and Ada 
(Thomas) Hough. He married Wanda Meyers on June 24, 1950. She preceded him in 
death on July 29, 1979. He later married Marguerite (Howard) Hoffman and she survives.   
George had been employed by Michigan Producers Dairy. He was also a bus driver for 
the Sand Creek and Addison school systems. He enjoyed bowling.   In addition to his 
wife, Marguerite, he is survived by a son, Kenneth Hough, of Pittsford; five daughters, 
Lois Boardman and her husband, Doug, of Phoenix, Arizona, Ada Adams and her 
husband, Larry, of Jackson, Brenda Dennis and her husband, Donald, of Adrian, Teana 
Goodsell and her husband, Chuck, of Hudson, and Claudia Etter, of Canton; three 
stepchildren, Pat (Ed) Lang, of Zephyr Hills, Florida, Don (Linda) Hoffman, of Gladwin, 
June Meyer, of Hudson; one stepson-in-law, Korbchai Sivavajchaipong; 17 
grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren; 9 stepgrandchildren; 9 stepgreat grandchildren; 
and many nieces and nephews.   In addition to his wife, Wanda, he was preceded in death 
by a son, George; one stepdaughter, Sherrie Sivavajchaipong; one stepgranddaughter, 
Chanda DeVore; two brothers, Roscoe Hough and Calvin Hough; and two sisters, Twyla 
Woodby and Iris Coleman.   A funeral service was conducted today at Anderson Funeral 
Home, Adrian, with the Rev. Donald Ault officiating. Burial was in Maple Shade 
Cemetery in Onsted. 


Martha Margaret Nicholas

Martha Margaret Nicholas, 81, of Cass City, died Friday, April 13, 2007, in the Grand 
Blanc Rehabilitation and Nursing Center following a long illness.   She was born August 
27, 1925 in Bingham Township, Huron County, to Frank and Rose (Rosinski) Preba. She 
married Floyd Nicholas on September 27, 1945. He died June 26, 1967.   Martha spent 
most of her life caring for her nine children. She enjoyed canning and gardening.   Martha 
is survived by her children, Judy (Larry) Merchant, of Cass City, Dan Nicholas, of Cass 
City, Mary (Richard) Tate, of Cass City, Ken (Sally) Nicholas, of Bad Axe, Rose (James) 
Apley, of Cass City, Terry (Melanie) Nicholas, of Cass City, Paul Nicholas, of Cass City; 
daughter-in-law, Linda Nicholas, of Caro; grandchildren, Mark Merchant, Kurt (Anna) 
Merchant, Missy, Shelly Erla, Stephanie (Rick) Champagne, Chad Tate, Heather (David) 
Hellebuyck, Jason Guza, Gina Nicholas, Travis Nicholas, Tiffany Nicholas, Amanda 
Apley (Jamie) Parrish, Trent Nicholas, Tyler Nicholas, Tara Nicholas; 9 great 
grandchildren; brother, Frank Preba; many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death 
by her sons, Eugene Nicholas and Les Nicholas; brothers, Eddie Preba, Ray Preba, and 
Bernie Preba; sisters, Frances Strange, Rose Steiner, Josephine Preba, and Annie Pelot.   
The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 17, 2007, in Ellington Church of 
the Nazarene with Pastor Ronald Comfort officiating. Interment will be in the Elkland 
Township Cemetery.   Visitation will be from 2 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. today at the 
Kranz Funeral Home in Cass City, and from 10 to 11 a.m. on Tuesday at the church.   
Memorials may be made to the Rawson Memorial Library. Family and friends may share 
memories, prayers, and stories with the family at www.kranzfuneralhome.com. 



Florence A. Ramisch

Florence A. Ramisch, 89, of Palms, passed away Saturday, April 14, 2007, in the Huron 
Medical Center, Bad Axe.   Born in Harbor Beach on June 29, 1917, Florence was the 
daughter of the late Joseph and Matilda (Wolschleger) Booms.   On June 30, 1943, 
Florence and Elmer Ramisch were united in marriage in St. Anthony's Catholic Church in 
Helena. Elmer preceded her in death on July 28, 2006.   Besides helping her husband on 
their Delaware Township farm, she enjoyed cooking and baking, sewing, growing 
flowers and canning what she grew in her garden. Florence was a life long member of the 
St. John Catholic Church in Forestville and the Altar Society.   She is survived by her 
children, Mary Ann Kyle and her husband, Rick, of Hudson, Florida, Ronald Ramisch 
and his wife, Mary, of Harbor Beach, Herbert Ramisch, of Palms, and John Ramisch, of 
Palms; five grandchildren, Kirsten, Kyle and Jonathan (Laila) Kyle, Matthew Nye, Laura 
Ramisch and Emma Ramisch; and great grandson, Aiden Kyle.   A Funeral Mass will be 
at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, April 17, 2007, in St. John Catholic Church in Forestville with Fr. 
Paul Bala officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.   Visitation will be from 2 to 
5 and 6 to 9 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home, and from 10 a.m. until the time of the 
service on Tuesday at the church. A parish vigil service will be at 7 p.m. today in the 
Ramsey Funeral Home, Harbor Beach. 


Robert David Stewart

Robert David Stewart, 65, of Deford, died unexpectedly Friday, April 13, 2007, in the 
Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, Ohio.   He was born December 31, 1941 in 
Ashland, Kentucky to Woodrow W. and Ann (Kimbler) Stewart.  He married Sharon L. 
Gambell on September 9, 1961 in Almont.   Bob worked for many years for Huff 
Orchards in Romeo and currently worked for Waste Management as a truck driver. Bob 
enjoyed fishing, hunting, cutting wood and playing the lottery. He loved to garden and 
always had a big garden. Bob was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather.  He 
hardly ever missed a day of work, even when he was sick. He passed this work ethic on 
to his children.  Bob was a friend to everyone and would do anything for you. He truly 
loved and enjoyed his grandkids and loved to joke with everyone.   Bob is survived by his 
wife, Sharon; children, Curtis (Lisa) Stewart, of Deford, Robert Bradley Stewart (Kathy 
Hillman), of Port Huron, Elizabeth Jane "Sissy" Stewart, of Deford, Christopher Lee 
(Christine) Stewart, of Mayville, Christal Lee Stewart (Andy Williams), of Deford; 
grandchildren, Keeley Sue Stewart, Courtney Danielle Stewart, Nathan David Stewart, 
Brandon Michael Stewart, Logan Christopher, Zack (Tracy) Mayo, Jenny Mayo, Nick 
Flemming; great grandchildren, Zachary Mayo, Jr., Nevaeh Mayo, Haley Zavitz; brothers 
and sisters, Paul Stewart, Charles Stewart, Theodore Stewart, Michael Stewart, Marty 
Stewart, Doug Stewart, Charlotte Parker, Sharon Stewart, Essie Gallvin, Donna, Vicky, 
Diane, Geri Stewart; many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by an infant 
daughter, Cynthia Lynn Stewart.   The funeral service will be at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, 
April 18, 2007, in Kranz Funeral Home in Cass City with Debra L. Kranz, funeral service 
celebrant, officiating. Visitation will be from 2 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday and 
from noon to 1 p.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home.   Memorials may be made to the 
Family Discretionary Fund.   Family and friends may share memories, prayers, and 
stories with the family at www.kranzfuneralhome.com. 



Donald C. Umbreit

Donald C. Umbreit, 85, of Delaware Township, Minden City, passed away Friday, April 
13, 2007, at the Huron Medical Center in Bad Axe.   Donald was born on May 25, 1921 
in Detroit to the late Arthur and Gertrude (Mortenson) Umbreit. He married Beatrice 
Chadwick on July 12, 1950 in Detroit. Donald was a graduate of the Forestville Country 
School. He farmed with his family. He worked in Cooper Yard in Detroit and was 
manager of Harmony Hall for many years. Donald then worked for General (Sugden) 
Construction from 1967 until he retired in 1986. He was an umpire for the Inter County 
Softball League. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, hunting, outdoor activities, horseshoes 
and playing euchre.   Donald is survived by his wife, Beatrice, of Minden City; one 
daughter, Roberta Daniel, of Harbor Beach; three sons, Donald A. Umbreit and A. 
Dennis Umbreit, both of Minden City, and Daniel A. (Mary "Roz") Umbreit, of Ruth; 
nine grandchildren; five great grandchildren; one sister, Dorothy Oliphant, of Cass City; 
one brother, Ralph Umbreit and his wife, Kathy, of Minden City.   Donald was preceded 
in death by one sister, Arlo Presscorn; two brothers, Arthur "Art" and Robert Umbreit.   
The funeral service will be at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, April 17, 2007, at the Smigielski 
Funeral Home in Minden City. Pastor Richard G. Wilson, of Trinity Lutheran Church in 
Forestville, will officiate. Cremation will take place at Sunset Valley Crematory in Bay 
City.   Visitation will be from noon until the time of the service at 8 p.m. on Tuesday at 
Smigielski Funeral Home on Cass Avenue in Minden City. 


Tuesday, April 17, 2007


Stanley B. Geiger

Stanley B. Geiger, 81, of Ruth, passed away on Monday, April 16, 2007, at Port Huron 
Hospital.   Stanley was born on March 4, 1926 in Ruth to the late William and Susan 
(Michalski) Geiger.   He married Norma Jean Dreher on September 14, 1968 at St. John 
Catholic Church in Forestville. She preceded him in death on April 6, 1998.   Stanley was 
a graduate of the Ruth Country School. He farmed and was a milk hauler. He worked at 
Michigan Livestock Exchange for 30 years before retiring in 1999. Stanley enjoyed 
playing cards, checking crops, polka music and dancing.   Stanley is survived by three 
sons and three daughters, Steve Geiger and his wife, Rhonda, of Palms, Marie Bevier and 
her husband, Phillip, of Bad Axe, Paul Geiger and his special friend, Cathy Hartz, of 
Ruth, Brian Geiger and his fiancée, Tricia Magusin, of Palms, Carrie Collins and her 
husband, Carl, of Deckerville, Sharon Parmer and her husband, Jason, of Harbor Beach; 
ten grandchildren, Lucas Geiger, Leo and Jaclyn Toth, Bryan, Ashley, Johnathon and 
Samantha Bevier, Victoria, Danielle and Heather Parmer.   Stanley was preceded in death 
by three brothers, Elmer, Lawrence and John Geiger; one sister, Eleanor Geiger.   The 
funeral service will be conducted at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 19, 2007, at the 
Smigielski Funeral Home in Minden City. Pastor Richard G. Wilson, of Trinity Lutheran 
Church in Forestville, will officiate. Burial will be in the SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery in 
Ruth.   Visitation will be from 1:30 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday and from 9:30 until the time 
of the service at 11 a.m. on Thursday at the Smigielski Funeral Home in Minden City. 


Alice J. MacGillivray

Alice J. MacGillivray, 88, of Bad Axe and formerly of Medallion Village in Sebewaing, 
passed away Friday, April 13, 2007, at the Huron County Medical Care Facility.   She 
was born in Richmond, Indiana on April 14, 1918, daughter of the late George and Sylvia 
(Smith) Graham.   On June 6, 1936, she was united in marriage to John M. "Jack" 
MacGillivray in Detroit. He preceded her in death on October 2, 2002. Mr. and Mrs. 
MacGillivray were married for over 66 years.   Mrs. MacGillivray graduated from 
Southeastern High School in Detroit and a Detroit Business School. During the World 
War II war effort she worked at Hudson Motor Car Company airplane factory in plant 
security and as a secretary. She later worked for J. L. Hudson Company in downtown 
Detroit and Eastland as a sales clerk. She also worked as a secretary for the East Detroit 
Public Schools administration and was a real estate agent for many years.   The 
MacGillivrays lived in Lake Havasu, Arizona, for 10 years and then Las Vegas, Nevada 
for 10 years. After living in the southwest United States, they returned to Roseville where 
they lived until moving to Medallion Village, Sebewaing, in 1998.   She is survived by a 
daughter, Sandy (Bill) MacGillivray, of Sand Point; a son, Norman J. MacGillivray, of 
Sterling Heights; two grandsons, Brett MacGillivray, of Fraser, and Todd MacGillivray, 
of Chicago, Illinois; great granddaughter, Miranda MacGillivray, of Warren; and many 
nieces and nephews.   She was preceded in death by four brothers and five sisters.   A 
memorial service will be conducted at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 19, 2007, at the 
Meyersieck-Bussema Funeral Home, Pigeon, with Elder Karen Bouverette officiating. 
Interment will be in Caseville Township Cemetery.   Friends may visit at 10:30 a.m. until 
the time of the service at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday at the Meyersieck-Bussema Funeral 
Home, Pigeon.   Memorials for Mrs. MacGillivray may be made to the Rheumatoid 
Arthritis Foundation of Michigan or to Heartland Hospice, Bad Axe. 


Genevieve M. McGee

Genevieve M. McGee, 91, of Bad Axe, passed away on Friday, February 2, 2007, at the 
Huron County Medical Care Facility in Bad Axe.   She was born on April 20, 1915 in 
Bad Axe, daughter of the late James and Bertha (Humphrey) McGee.   She was a member 
of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Bad Axe and loved gardening and interaction with 
her nieces and nephews. Her great sense of humor will always stand as one of her most 
memorable legacies.   She is survived by one sister, Josephine Greene, of Bad Axe; many 
nieces and nephews; one sister-in-law, Edna McGee, of Bad Axe.   She was preceded in 
death by three brothers, Erwyn, Charles and Patrick McGee; three sisters, Mary Costello, 
Frances Pearl, Eileen Hembling.   A memorial service will be conducted at 11 a.m. on 
Saturday, April 21, 2007, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Bad Axe. Officiating will 
be Fr. James Carlson, pastor.   Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of the service 
at 11 a.m. on Saturday at the church.   Arrangements are being handled by the Kaufman 
Funeral Home in Bad Axe. 


Pearl E. Parrott

Pearl E. Parrott, 91, was born on February 7, 1916 in Downington, the daughter of the 
late Frederick and Caroline (Kenny) Jones.   She was raised with three sisters, and four 
brothers, Mrs. Charlotte Redman, of Deckerville, Mrs. Margaret Charboneau and Ms. 
Grace Jones, both deceased, James, Frank, Fred, and George Jones, all deceased.   She 
married Russell Parrott on May 9, 1931 in Grand Blanc. He preceded her in death on 
March 21, 2003. Together they raised one son, Frederick, who preceded her in death on 
March 29, 2000; and two daughters, Mrs. Margaret (James) Stevens, of Lynchburg, 
Virginia, and Mrs. Denise Tenbusch, of Harbor Beach.   Mrs. Parrott enjoyed sewing, 
traveling, and playing cards. She worked as a licensed practical nurse at the Deckerville 
Community Hospital for many years. She was a member of the United Methodist Women 
and attended Deckerville United Methodist Church for many years. She also enjoyed her 
six grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren (one of which was born this past Sunday). 
She also enjoyed the company of her several nieces and nephews and her daughter-in-
law, Judy Parrott, of Dearborn Heights.   On Monday morning, April 16, 2007, after 91 
years, Mrs. Parrott passed away in Autumnwood Nursing Home.   A funeral service to 
celebrate the life of Pearl E. Parrott will be at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 18, 2007, in 
the Apsey Funeral Home. The Rev. John Rapson will officiate. Burial will be in Downing 
Cemetery.   Visitation will be from 3 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday in the funeral home.   
Memorials may be given to the Deckerville Community Hospital or Autumnwood 
Auxiliary. 


Wednesday, April 18, 2007


Chester W. Rathbun

Chester W. Rathbun, 88, of Bryan, Ohio, died at 10:25 a.m. on Sunday, April 15, 2007, in 
his residence.   Chester W. Rathbun was born March 31, 1919 in Ubly, the son of 
Howard and Mildred (Weitzel) Rathbun.   He married Lillie E. Richter on February 19, 
1944 in Toledo, Ohio and she survives.  A World War II Navy veteran, Chester was the 
owner of Chet's Auto-Electric, Bryan, for 26 years. He retired in 1986. He began his 
career as an engineer for the Pittsburgh Steamboat Company. He then went to work at 
Main Auto Supply in Toledo, Ohio, prior to serving his country in the Navy. He was a 
member of First Lutheran Church, Bryan, Ohio, the Bryan Lions Club where he served as 
a past president and was also a Melvin Jones Fellow. He was a member of the Bryan 
Moose Lodge No. 1064 and the Bryan Masonic Lodge No. 215.   Besides his wife, he is 
survived by two sons, Lynn (Bonnie) Rathbun, of Ithaca, New York, and Dennis (Vicki) 
Rathbun, of Bryan, Ohio; four grandchildren, Nathan and Natalia Rathbun, of Ithaca, 
New York, Cole Rathbun, of Kalamazoo, and Brooke Rathbun, of Bryan, Ohio; two 
brothers, Gerald (Nancy) Rathbun, of Fletcher, North Carolina, and Allan (Beverly) 
Rathbun, of Perry, Ohio; four sisters, Arlene (Gilbert) Regentin, of Ubly, Ruth (Robert) 
Knoll, of Bad Axe, Mary Ellen Vatter, of Ubly, and Iola (Harry) Strauss, of Laveen, 
Arizona.   He was preceded in death by his parents; and one brother, Keith Rathbun. 
Memorial services for Chester W. Rathbun will be conducted at 11 a.m. on Saturday, 
April 21, 2007, in First Lutheran Church, 210 North Cherry Street, Bryan, Ohio, with 
Pastor Richard Franks officiating.   The family will receive friends one hour prior to the 
service on Saturday at the church. Arrangements are by Krill Funeral Service, 860 West 
Mulberry Street, Bryan, Ohio.   Memorials in the name of Chester W. Rathbun may be 
given to First Lutheran Church, 210 North Cherry Street, Bryan, Ohio, Lion's Sight First 
Foundation or to the Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorder Program Fund No. 
321275 c/o: Medical University of Ohio Foundation, 1111 Research Drive, Toledo, Ohio 
43614. Condolences may be sent and the guest register signed at 
www.krillfuneralservice.com.  


Amanda Lee Spencer

Amanda Lee (Messing) Spencer, 26, of Ruth, passed away Monday, April 16, 2007, 
while under hospice care, at the home of her parents.   Amanda was born on May 31, 
1980 in Bad Axe to Michael and Sharon (Osentoski) Messing of Ruth.   She graduated 
from Harbor Beach High School in 1998, and graduated from Alma College with a 
bachelors of arts degree, cum laude. Amanda also painted the mural that is inside the 
Harbor Beach Coast Guard Station.   On October 12, 2002, she married William Spencer 
in Harbor Beach. She was an employee of Michael's Arts and Crafts of Saginaw.   
Amanda enjoyed working with arts and crafts, painting and scrapbooking.   She is 
survived by her parents, Michael and Sharon, of Ruth; two sisters, Jessica Tenbusch and 
her husband, Jared, of Ruth, and Laura Messing, of Ruth; mother and father-in-law, Ken 
and Karen Spencer, of Cass City; sister-in-law, Tiffany (Steve) Ball; and nephew, Bryce; 
and sister-in-law, Kari; and brother-in-law, Kenneth Jr.; grandmother, Josie Osentoski, of 
Harbor Beach; honorary grandparents, Elmer and Helen Reinke, of Minden City.   She 
was preceded in death by her grandparents, Isadore and Alice (Essenmacher) Osentoski, 
and Charles and Magdalene (Kirsch) Messing.   A Funeral Mass for Amanda will be 
Thursday, April 19, 2007, at 11 a.m. in the Our Lady of Lake Huron Catholic Church 
with T.J. Fleming officiating. Burial will take place following the service in Ruth's SS. 
Peter and Paul Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday in the 
Ramsey Funeral Home, Harbor Beach, and beginning at 10 a.m. until the time of the 
service on Thursday in the church. A vigil service will take place at 7:30 p.m. on 
Wednesday in the funeral home. 


Elizabeth Buschbacher

Elizabeth Buschbacher, 92, of Sebewaing, died Monday, April 16, 2007, at Covenant 
Healthcare Cooper in Saginaw.   Mass of Christian burial will take place at 2 p.m. on 
Friday, April 20, 2007, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Sebewaing.   Arrangements 
are being handled by the Dinkel-Juengel Funeral Home in Sebewaing. 


Thursday, April 19, 2007


Emma K. Duda

Mrs. Emma K. Duda, 91, resident of Bad Axe for 65 years, passed away Wednesday 
morning, April 18, 2007, at the Huron County Medical Care Facility in Bad Axe. Emma 
was born on June 21, 1915 in Argyle to the late Alex and Verne (Osentowski) Heleske.   
She married Daniel R. Duda on November 23, 1940 at St. Ignatius Catholic Church in 
Freiburg. He preceded her in death on March 29, 1985.   Emma was a graduate of Ubly 
High School. She had been a parishioner at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rapson for 
over 50 years and was a member of St. Rita's Altar Society. Emma liked to cook, crochet 
afghans, pillows and dollies, and doing her crafts.   Emma is survived by two daughters, 
Deanna Messing and her husband, Thomas, of Romeo, Theresa Wojtalewicz and her 
husband, Dennis, of Ortonville; two sons, James Duda and his wife, Rosemarie, and 
William Duda, both of Bad Axe; 14 grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; one sister-
in-law, Leta Duda, of Mt. Clemens.   Emma was preceded in death by two sisters, Bertha 
Sharbowski and Gertrude High; one brother, Frank Heleske.   A Funeral Mass will be at 
11 a.m. on Saturday, April 21, 2007, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rapson. The Rev. 
Robert Shine will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.   Visitation will be 
from 1:30 to 9 p.m. on Friday at the Zinger-Smigielski Funeral Home in Ubly and from 
10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday at the church. There will be a rosary at 6:30 p.m. on Friday by 
St. Rita's Altar Society and a parish vigil service at 7 p.m. Both services will be at the 
funeral home. 


Caroline E. Schulz

Caroline E. Schulz, 86, of Unionville, died Wednesday, April 18, 2007, at the Tuscola 
County Medical Care Facility in Caro following a 3 1/2 year illness. She was born 
September 6, 1920 in Unionville, daughter of the late Jacob J. and Florence H. (Schmidt) 
Roller.   She was united in marriage to Roy C. Schulz on February 10, 1946 at the 
Moravian Church in Unionville.   She was a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church, 
Columbia Corners.   She enjoyed quilting, sewing, cooking and especially loved to play 
cards.   Surviving are her husband, Roy; two sons and their spouses, John and Dianne 
Schulz, James and Sandra Schulz, all of Unionville; nine grandchildren and their spouses, 
Brian (Cristy) Schulz, Dan (Anna) Schulz, Jeff (Jodi) Schulz, Brenda Schulz, Terry 
(Gina) Schulz, Crystal (Scott) Bollman, Carrie (Travis) Albertson, Kayla Wentworth, 
Adam Wentworth; great grandchildren, Carissa, Zachary, Drew, Cooper, Sophia, Jeffrey 
and Susan Schulz; and several nieces and nephews.   She was preceded in death by four 
brothers, infant Arthur, Ralph, Clayton and Ernest Roller; and two sisters, Nelda Irrer and 
Eldine Reithel.   The funeral service will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 21, 
2007, at St. Peter Lutheran Church at Columbia Corners. The Rev. Clifford Randall will 
officiate with burial in the Moravian Cemetery in Unionville.   Visitation will be from 2 
to 9 p.m. on Friday at the Dinkel-Juengel Funeral Home in Sebewaing and from 9:30 
a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday at the church.   Memorials may be made to 
St. Peter Lutheran Church or the charity of the donor's choice. 


James Clare Turner

James Clare Turner, 74, of Cass City, died Wednesday, April 18, 2007, in his home with 
his family by his side.   He was born July 27, 1932 in Cass City to Clare and Ruth 
(Elliott) Turner. He married Alice M. Kelterborn on April 29, 1978 in Adrian. She died 
on October 28, 2005.   Jim served in the U.S. Navy. He was a farmer for nearly 40 years, 
raising Polled Shorthorn Herefords and cash crops. He managed elevators in Cass City, 
Gagetown, Colling, Sebewaing, and Unionville for JP Burroughs and Son, Blount 
Agriculture and Agri-Sales. Jim served on the Elmwood Township Board for over 41 
years retiring as supervisor. He enjoyed fishing, woodworking, playing cards and 
collecting John Deere memorabilia. Jim was a member of the Masonic Tyler Lodge #317 
in Cass City.   Jim is survived by his children, Susan (Dan) Romzek, of Ruth, Bryan 
Turner, of Port Huron, Kathy (David) Harris, of Burlingame, California, Curtis A. 
Turner, of East Lansing, Kenneth (Melinda) Turner, of Dimondale; stepchildren, John 
(Betty) Matt, of Saginaw, Susan (John) Blair, of Saugatuck, Kris Matt, of Unionville; 
grandchildren, Chad (Tracy) Romzek, Tobie Romzek (Dave Mikowski), Gavin (Claire) 
Romzek, Jesse Turner, Jennifer Turner, Amelia Harris, Cameron Turner, Grant Turner, 
Finley Turner; great grandchildren, Dylan, Mason, Owen, Olivia, Kody, Keegan; and 
several stepgrandchildren and stepgreat grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his 
daughter, Jean Ann Turner, who died in 2001. A funeral service will be conducted at 2 
p.m. on Sunday, April 22, 2007, in Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City, with Wendy Orzel, 
Home and Hospice Advantage Chaplain, officiating. Pallbearers for Mr. Turner are Chad 
Romzek, Tobie Romzek, Gavin Romzek, Jesse Turner, Robert Christianson, and Ron 
Spaulding.   Visitation will be from 2 to 9 p.m. on Saturday and from 1 to 2 p.m. Sunday.   
Memorials may be made to Home and Hospice Advantage or Family Discretionary Fund. 
Interment will be in Ellington Township Cemetery. Family and friends may share 
memories, prayers, and stories with the family at www.kranzfuneralhome.com. 


Friday, April 20, 2007


Alice Lorraine Cordero

Alice Lorraine Cordero, 82, of Bradenton, Florida and formerly of Detroit and Fostoria, died 
Friday, April 13, 2007, in Bay Front Medical Center, St. Petersburg, Florida.    She was born 
May 30, 1923 in East Dayton to Gregory and Anna (Srelag) Wenta. She married Bruno 
Cordero.  He preceded her in death. 
Alice is survived by her brother, John (Margaret) Wenta, of Bradenton; sister, Irene 
(Morton) Algase. of Las Vegas, Nevada.   A memorial service will be conducted on her 
birthday, Wednesday, May 30, 2007, at 11 a.m. in St. Michael Catholic Church, Wilmot, 
with Sr. Riccardina Silvestri officiating. Interment will be in St. Michael Cemetery. 
Honoring her request, cremation has taken place in Florida.   Visitation will be from 10 to 
11 a.m. on Saturday, May 30, 2007.   Memorials may be made to St. Joseph's Catholic 
Church, Mayville, or the American Cancer Society. Family and friends may share 
memories, prayers, and stories with the family at www.kranzfuneralhome.com. 


Larry Oldenburg

Larry Oldenburg, 65, of Minden City, died Thursday, April 19, 2007, of a heart attack at 
Huron Medical Center.   A Funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. on Monday, April 23, 2007, 
in St. John Lutheran Church in Palms. The Rev. Henry J. Hales, pastor of St. John 
Lutheran Church, will officiate. Cremation has taken place at Sunset Valley Crematory in 
Bay City.   Visitation will be from 1 to 9 p.m. on Sunday at Smigielski Funeral Home in 
Minden City and from 10 to 11 a.m. on Monday at the church. 























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