Ionia County MI Archives Obituaries.....Haskins, Lionel Lee St. February 16, 2024 ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Patricia Currigan currigan1932@concast.net June 10, 2024, 5:09 pm Ionia Shopper's Guide - Sat. February 24, 2024 HASKINS Lionel Lee Haskins Sr., age 82, of Saranac, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2024., surrounded by the love of his family and friends.The son of Harol and Volta "Tiny" (Poulson) Haskins. Lionel was born on June 6, 1941, in Grand Rapids,MI. He attended Saranac Community Schools, graduating with the Class of 1959. Following graduation he joined the Navy dedicating four years of his life 1960 to 1964, to serving his country with pride. On August 13, 1960, Lionel united in marriage with is beloved Jane Magee of Saranac. Together they embarked on a 53 year journey that would see them raise five remarkable children. Lionel experienced the loss of his dear Jane on August 25, 2013, leaving behind a void that could never be filled. We know in our hearts their heavenly reunion was filled with joy. Lionel was a methodical man of ingenuity and integrity.He established Saranac Buidlers where his expertise in construction led him to serve as the Building Inspector for Ionia County, later evolving into the Director of the Board of Public Works. Lionel's entrepreneurial venture continued with the inception of Haskins Construction, where he and his son, Tim, developed the Morrison Lake Condos. His legacy extended far beyond the realm of construction when he assumed the position of Ionia Free Fair Manager, overseeing many memorable years of community celebration and success. Assisted by his wife, Jane, who had an incredible gift of hospitality and a heart to serve,they also launched Haskins Family Concessions. Lionel never met a stranger.You knew you were loved if he blessed you with a nickname, the more nonsensical the better. Hugs, a listening ear, and support were freely given to all who were lucky enough to call him friend. As a member of St.Anthony Catholic Church of Saranac, Lionel's faith was an integral part of his life. He was also a proud member of the Saranac American Legion. After Jane passed away, Lionel found unwavering companionship and support from Diane Suppes. Together, they shared life's joys and challenges, enriching each other's lives in immeasurable ways. Furthermore, heartfelt appreciation is extended to his grandson Ryan Thomas for his solid care and support. Lionel's legacy lives on through his devoted children: Lionel Haskins Jr. of Ionia, Mark (Gina) Haskins of Florida, Christine Haskins of Ionia, Timothy (Danielle) Haskins of Hudsonville, Theresa (Andy) Nurenberg of Saranac, and bonus son Jim "Pitty" Pittman of Saranac. His memory also continues through a host of adoring grandchildren; Amber (Darrell) Whitmire, Corey (Danielle)Haskins, Alex Haskins, Hannah Haskins, Haley (Jay) Haskins, Cody Haskins, Kelsey (Tyler)Etheridge, Trevor Haskins, Martin (Ashlee)Lemke, Marcus (Katie)Lemke, Anthony Lemke, Matthew Haskins, Holly Haskins, Jake Haskins, Aric Haskins, Isla Haskins, Griffin Haskins, Ryan Thomas, Karlee (Andy) Thomas, Andrew (Gabrielle) Nurenberg and Ryleigh Nurenberg; 27 great-grandchildren;1 great-great-granddaughter; Diane Suppes and her children, Dustin Suppes (Lindsey) with their children Lydia and Collin, and Darcy (Jeremy) Ingraham with their children Braeden Piggott and Owen, Rylie, Garrett, and Wyatt; and his sister Rosemary (Dan) Healy of Florida. In Lionel's passing, he joins his parents, wife Jane, brother Chuck and his loving wife Karen, grandson Matthew, and Derek Suppes in eternal peace.Friends and loved ones are invited to pay their respects during the visitation at Lake Funeral Home in Ionia on Friday, February 23rd, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A funeral Mass honoring Lionel's life will be held at St.Anthony's Catholic Church in Saranac on Saturday, February 24th, 2024,a t 11:00 a.m., officiated by Father Michael Goodwin. Following the service, all are welcome to join the family for a luncheon at Buzz (Sallie) Possehn's place at 325 Johnson Rd, Saranac. Although neither of them would ever openly admit it, Lionel and Buzz have been lifelong best friends. With a heart for those in need Lionel wished for random acts of kindness to be performed in his memory in lieu of flowers or a formal donation. Online condolences and tributes may be shared at www.lakefueneralhomes.com, for friends and family to commemorate the life of this extraordinary man whose impact will be felt for generations to come. Additional Comments: Vietnam Navy Vet. File at: http://files.usgwarchives.net/mi/ionia/obits/h/haskins48040nob.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.net/mifiles/ File size: 5.0 Kb