This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: FORSYTHE, PRESTIN, BOHLE, KOHLS, NEUMANN, STAUFFER, KIEKENAPP, LUDWIG, LOTTRIDGE Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22524/mb.ashx Message Board Post: FORSYTHE, Homer Preston Age 78 Of Irons, Michigan Died Wednesday evening, March 12, 2008 at his home. He was born on August 18, 1929 in New Carlisle, IN, the son of the late Homer D. & Alice (Prestin) Forsythe. He was a graduate of Watervliet High School and attended DeForest's Training Institute in Chicago. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving during the Korean Conflict. Homer married Eleanor Bohle in l955 in Watervliet, MI, she survives. He was employed as an engineer by Fetzer Broadcasting System in Kalamazoo from 1955 to 1988. He was an avid reader and sportsman and a loyal follower of the PGA, U of M Football and the Detroit Tigers. He was a lifelong member of the Masonic Order - Coloma Lodge #162, and VFW Post # 5315. Also surviving are his children, Steven (Lisa) Forsythe of Dorr, MI, Laurie (Paul) Kohls of Mission Viejo, CA, Julie (Scott) Neumann of Houston, TX and Paul Forsythe of Irons, MI; six grandchildren, Alexandra, Erin, Ryan, Cameron, Courtney & Tyler; his siblings, Jean (Albert) Stauffer and Prudence ! (Richard) Kiekenapp both of Traverse City, Vernon Richard Forsythe of Benton Harbor, Margaret Ludwig of Coloma, and Patricia (John) Lottridge of St. Joseph, MI; nieces and nephews also survive. A celebration of life service will be held Saturday, March 15, 2008 at 1:00 PM at the Moose Lodge, 1025 Wells in South Haven with Pastor Robert Linstrom, officiating. Memorials in Prest's name may be directed to Hospice of Michigan. The family has entrusted the Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center of Ludington with funeral arrangements. He was dearly loved and will be dearly missed. Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/14/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: VANDALSON, NANNINGA, KIEL, DELOOF, OORBECK Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22523/mb.ashx Message Board Post: VAN DALSON, William S. Of Kalamazoo William died Tuesday morning, March 11, 2008 in Kalamazoo, MI. He was born in Ann Arbor, MI in 1935, the son of Edward S. and Virginia Van Dalson and had lived in this area for most of his life. William retired from Kalamazoo Stamping and Die where he served as vice president. He was preceded in death by his father. On October 19, 1966, William was united in marriage with the former Lois Nanninga, who survives. Also surviving are: his mother, Virginia Van Dalson of Galesburg; a son, Edward Schuyler Van Dalson of Galesburg; sisters-in-law, Jean Kiel, Bea DeLoof and Jean Oorbeck, all of Kalamazoo; brother-in-law, Robert (Betty) Nanninga of Zeeland; many nieces, nephews and cousins; and his close friend and caregiver, Tammy (Michael) Haynes. William's family and friends will gather for visitation on Friday from 2-4 & 6-8 PM at Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 South 9th Street. Private interment will be held in Mount Ever-Rest Memorial Park. Memorials shoul! d be directed to the Cheff Center, Haven Church or to the charity of one's choice. www.langelands.com 269-343-1508 Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/12/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: VANBROEKE, DEE, HALL, HEASLEY, FEISER Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22522/mb.ashx Message Board Post: VAN BROEKE, Virginia Of Parchment Passed away Monday, March 10, 2008. Virginia was a hard, dedicated worker who retired from the Kalamazoo State Hospital after 20 years of service in the central kitchen. A loving mother, grandparent and friend, she lived her life with determination, passion and strength. Her spirit, sense of humor and culinary skills, especially her unbelievable potato salad, will be greatly missed. Her son, Gary (Cora) Dee, preceded her in death in November of 2007. Surviving are her beloved friend and care giver, Lana Feiser; her son, Bruce Hall; her grandchildren, Amie (Al) Heasley and Craig (Karen) Feiser and great-grandchildren, Sarah and Leo Feiser. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be conducted on Saturday at 1:00 PM in the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick St. with Rev. James Dyke, officiating. Memorial contributions may be directed to The Springs at Bronson Place. 343-1508. www.langelands.com Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/12/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: TURNER Classification: death Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22521/mb.ashx Message Board Post: TURNER, Mr. Leonard, Jr. Age 63 Of Kalamazoo, MI Went home to be with the Lord, March 8, 2008. Services will be held 1:00 PM Friday at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Pastor Addis Moore, officiating. Friends may view 3-6 PM Thursday at the Harper Funeral Home, 521 Douglas Avenue, 342-1000. Interment Riverside Cemetery. Please visit Mr. Turner's guestbook and leave an expression of sympathy. www.harperfuneralhomeinc.com Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/12/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: THOMPSON, RANKIN, MILLER, GILMAN, DAVIS, BOWER, HEBBLE Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22520/mb.ashx Message Board Post: THOMPSON, Margaret "Maggie" Of Kalamazoo Passed away Sunday, March 9, 2008 at her home in Kalamazoo. Maggie was born January 22, 1943 in Kalamazoo, to the late Russell and Mary Ruth (Rankin) Miller. She was united in marriage, June 2, 1966 to Albert Thompson, who survives her. Maggie loved her family first and foremost. Among her other interests were, crocheting items for babies as needed, she loved dogs, gardening and cooking. Also surviving Maggie are her children, Sheila (Dan) Gilman and Amy (Rick) Davis; the Gilman grandchildren, Austin, Braelyn, Zachary and Jackson; the Davis grandchildren, Cameron, Devin and Mackenzie; twin sister, Marilyn (Dave) Bower; brothers, Ronald (Linda) Miller, Paul (Nancy) Miller, Robert (Lois) Miller, Roy (Pam) Miller, Terry (Darlene) Hebble and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Preceding her in death was her step-father, Glenn "Whitey" Hebble. Funeral services will take place on Friday, March 14, 2008, 10:00 o'clock AM at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 S! . 9th Street, Kalamazoo, MI, Pastor Cameron Wright, officiating. Family will greet friends on Thursday, March 13th from 2-4 and 6-8 o'clock PM at the Westside Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to a charity of one's choice. 269-343-1508 www.langelands.com Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/12/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: MAKOWSKI, JACOBS, DZIEGIELEWSKI, DRZYMKOWSKI Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22519/mb.ashx Message Board Post: MAKOWSKI, Henrietta "Henia" Henrietta Makowski (Henia) was a 9-year-old girl tending a flock of geese when Germany invaded her native Poland at the start of World War II. As she was crossing the bridge that led to her family's farm, she heard strange whistling noises all around. She later learned these were caused by bullets fired by soldiers in the surrounding forest and fields. She defied the odds that day and over the next 5.5 years in occupied Poland to not only survive, but thrive in her full life. During her 20's, she chose to work a variety of jobs and travel throughout Poland rather than marry. When visiting family in Western New York on a tourist visa, she met her future husband, Joseph Makowski, on a blind date. They married in 1962 and raised a family in Western New York, where they worked for the New York State government, owned a farm and operated rental properties. She was proud of becoming an American citizen and felt she had lived the American dream. A hardworking and energetic woman, s! he did not see retirement as a time to relax. She volunteered for her church, often cooking or baking large quantities of food for various functions. She loved gardening and enjoyed her flower garden, vegetable garden, fruit trees and berry bushes as well as working part time seasonally for a nursery. It was not uncommon for strangers driving by her home to stop to admire her flowers in full bloom. Friendly by nature, she would invite passersby for a tour of her garden, talking about the different varieties of flowers and offering to save seeds. Proud of her Polish heritage, she often shared her knowledge at ethnic festivals, schools, and museums. She will be remembered by many for her kindness and generosity. Her door was always open and her kitchen filled with hospitality. After being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, Henia moved with her husband to Kalamazoo, MI, in June 2006, to be closer to her daughter. Throughout her illness, she kept a positive upbeat attitude. She ! died on March 9, 2008 at Rose Arbor Hospice. Henia is survived by her husband, Joseph and daughter and son-in-law, Christina and Tony Jacobs in Kalamazoo, MI; sons, Joseph and John Makowski; daughter-in-law, Debra Makowski; sister and brother-in-law, Jadwiga and Frank Dziegielewski in Western New York; son and daughter-in-law, David and Tracy Makowski in Brooklyn, NY; brother, Jozef Drzymkowski in Poland and six grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, Portage, at 10:00 AM on Saturday, March 15th with a reception to follow at the home of her daughter. Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/12/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: HILDRETH, SEVERANCE, POOLER, MOWBRAY, CUSATO, COLLINS, COCKS, PEABODY, ECKARD, BLETHEN, OTIS Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22518/mb.ashx Message Board Post: HILDRETH (SEVERANCE), Irene Laura Age 94 Of Orono, Maine Formerly of Kalamazoo After a long and fulfilling life, Irene Laura Severance Hildreth, 94, died at home comforted by her children, on Thursday, February 28, 2008 in Orono, Maine. She was born April 19, 1913 in Milo Junction (Derby) Maine, the daughter of Howard L. Severance and Gertrude A. (Pooler) Severance. Shortly thereafter, the family moved to Old Town. In 1931, she graduated from Old Town High School and in 1935, she graduated as a Registered Nurse from Children's Hospital School of Nursing in Boston. In 1936, she moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan to practice neurosurgical nursing. There, she met her future husband. Irene married Roscoe C. Hildreth, M.D. in June of 1938 in Old Town. They made their home in Kalamazoo for 65 years. Irene and her children spent three months of every summer, from the time her children were born, with her parents at the family camp on Pushaw Pond, raising her children and creating fond memories of Maine. She and Ros continued to summer at Pushaw for their remaining! years. Irene was very active in many community and charitable organizations and received numerous awards for her dedicated service. Some of her volunteer activities included forty five years with the American Red Cross, seventy years with the Kalamazoo Medical Auxiliary, and several years with the Kalamazoo School Board, Parent Teachers Association, YMCA, and Girl Scouts of America. She received the B'nai B'rith Interfaith Award in 1962, the Kalamazoo Rotary Club's Rose Citation in 1969, and the Kalamazoo Academy of Medicine Alliance's Caroline Bartlett Crane Award in 2000. Irene was a member of the First Congregational Church in Kalamazoo for 68 years and served as a volunteer in various positions. In her later years, she returned to the Old Town area to live and spent many hours documenting the Pooler / Severance and Hildreth / Mowbray genealogy. Friends and family will remember her as being gracious, loving, kind and caring. Many have said, "She was a special Lady." She! is survived by her children, Douglas H. Hildreth and his wife, Linda of Medford, OR, Susan Hildreth Cusato and her husband, Joseph of Columbus, OH, Steven C. Hildreth of Parkman, ME. and Barbara Hildreth of Old Town; nine grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Also surviving are nieces, Rene Severance Collins and Jacqueline Hildreth Cocks; cousins, Laura-jean Peabody Eckard, Selden Blethen and Jane Blethen Otis. She was predeceased by her husband and her brother, Laurance P. Severance. A visitation with family was held Wednesday, March 5th from 2-3 PM in the Kenduskeag Parlor at Dirigo Pines Inn, 9 Alumni Drive, Orono, Maine. (207) 866-3400. A service in celebration of Irene's life will be held at a later date. Her cremains will be interred next to her husband's in Lawndale Cemetery in Old Town following her body gift to Harvard Medical School. At Irene's request, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the University of Nebraska Foundation, Roscoe C. Hildreth, M.D. and Irene S. Hildreth, R.N. Scholarship Fund # 4708, 1010 Lincoln Mal! l, Suite 300, Lincoln, NE. 68508. The Scholarship was established in 1992 and provides tuition to the University of Nebraska for students from Hildreth, NE. Messages of condolences and memories may be left at www.bangordailynews.com in the obituary section. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Birmingham Funeral Home, 438 Main Street, Old Town, Maine 04468. Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/12/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: HALL, CHRISTIAN, KISH Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22517/mb.ashx Message Board Post: HALL, Beatrice Joyce July 28, 1928-March 6, 2008 Bea Hall passed away on Thursday, March 6, 2008 at the age of 79. Born in Kalamazoo, Michigan on July 28, 1928, she was the fourth of five children of Elmer and Mildred Christian. Her sisters, Vivian and Florence and her brothers, Bill and Charles (Buddy) preceded her in death. Bea lived for over 40 years in the greater Kalamazoo and surrounding areas. She graduated from Plainwell High School in 1946. She worked at the Kalamazoo Gazette in the Classified Advertising Department from approximately 1955 to 1969. She moved to Flint, Michigan in 1969 and worked at the Flint Journal. Three years later she moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico, where she worked at the Albuquerque Journal.. In 1975, she moved to California and worked for the Santa Monica Evening Outlook, until retiring in 1993. Bea moved to Las Vegas, Nevada in early 1994 and worked until 2007 for Jackpot Enterprises and ETT. She is survived by her son, David Kish and her granddaughters, Kelley Kish and Katy Kish, who l! oved her dearly and she them. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Reardon Funeral Home in Simi Valley, California. Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/12/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: WILLIAMSON, VERSLUIS, SKLEBECK, SCHAUER, STROUD, LESMAN Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22516/mb.ashx Message Board Post: WILLIAMSON, James E. Age 89 Of Kalamazoo, MI Passed away on Wednesday, March 12, 2008 at Rose Arbor Hospice. He was born in Kalamazoo, MI on October 30, 1918, the son of the late James and Henrietta (Versluis) Williamson and was a lifelong resident of the area. He married Frances Sklebeck on June 27, 1947, who survives and they raised one son, Scott. He served in the Army during World War II and spent three years overseas. He spent most of that time playing in the 98th Army Ground Forces Band and also dance bands. When he returned he played in bands in the Kalamazoo area, spending most of his time with the Bobby Davidson Band. He was a master carpenter for many years; building many homes in the Westwood neighborhood- building many beautiful cabinets in all of the homes. He loved making many things from wood and kept his hands busy and loved outdoor work in the yard. He loved his family and enjoyed spending time fishing with his son and his grand children and great-grandchildren. He leaves behind his wife of 61 years an! d son, Scott (Cindy) Williamson of Caledonia, MI; four granddaughters, Katie (Frank) Schauer, Melissa (Jeff) Stroud, Kristin Williamson and Jami Williamson; seven great-grandchildren and a sister, Helen Lesman. In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation. A memorial service will be held in the spring at Fort Custer National Cemetery. In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice Care of South West Michigan or Rose Arbor Hospice. Arrangements by the REDMOND Funeral Home, 4100 S. Westnedge-343-6156 Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/13/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: SLUMKOSKI, MORRIS, OWEN Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22515/mb.ashx Message Board Post: SLUMKOSKI, Mr. Richard E., Jr. Of Portage, MI **Please note change of visitation & service location** Died Tuesday morning, March 11, 2008 at his residence. Richard was born July 31, 1961 in Kalamazoo, Michigan, a son of Richard and Betty (Morris) Slumkoski. He had been a lifelong Kalamazoo area resident and employed with Checker Motors for 23 years. He was preceded in death by an infant daughter. He is survived by his parents, Richard (Betty) Slumkoski, Sr. of Kalamazoo; two children, Richard E. Slumkoski III and Samantha Slumkoski, both at home; two sisters, Darla Slumkoski of Delton and Kimberly (Scott Saddler) Owen of Portage; a nephew, Randal; a niece, Ashley; several aunts, uncles, cousins and friend, Susie Slumkoski. Visitation will be 2-4 and 6-8 PM Friday at the REDMOND Funeral Home 4100 S. Westnedge-343-6156 where services will be held 10:30 Saturday morning, Pastor Jim Dyke, officiating. Interment will be in Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park. Memorials may be directed to the West Michigan Cancer Center. Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/13/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: NGAFUA Classification: death Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22514/mb.ashx Message Board Post: NGAFUA, Mr. Jeffrey B., Sr. Age 52 Of Kalamazoo, MI Passed away Monday, February 25, 2008. Services will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, March 15, 2008 at Second Baptist Church. Friends may view Friday, March 14, 2008 at the Harper Funeral Home, 521 Douglas Avenue, 342-1000. Interment Riverside Cemetery. Send Jeffrey a message of sympathy at: www.harperfuneralhomeinc.com Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette from 2/28/2008 - 3/13/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: HILL, HEDGES, FENNER, BEALS, Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22513/mb.ashx Message Board Post: HILL, Daniel J. Of Portage Passed away Tuesday, March 11, 2008. Dan was born October 23, 1964 in Chula Vista, CA, the son of Larry and Peggy (Hedges) Hill and had lived in the Portage area for 35 years. Dan was a loving father, son, brother and a loyal friend. He was also an avid lover of motorcycles and music. Dan is survived by his daughter, Desiree (Chris) Fenner of Louisville, KY; his son, Robert Hill of Portage; his parents, Larry and Peggy Hill of Portage; his grandmother, Ruby Hedges of Portage; his sister, Cheryl (Timothy) Beals of Grand Rapids; his brother, Larry (Elizabeth) Hill of Louisville, Ohio; four nieces and two nephews. Memorial services will be conducted on Friday at 11:00 AM in the First Baptist Church of Portage, 1133 E. Centre Ave. with Rev. Chad Wells, officiating. In lieu of flowers, friends are encouraged to make memorial contributions to the First Baptist Church of Portage. Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel, 411 E. Centre Ave. 269-343-1508. www.langelands.com Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/13/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: ERICKSON, NUGENT, LEHTINEN, COLLVER Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22512/mb.ashx Message Board Post: ERICKSON, Robert Gustave It is with great sadness that the family of Robert Gustave Erickson announces his passing at home following a lengthy illness, on Tuesday, March 11, 2008 at the age of 85 years. Mr. Erickson was born on July 8, 1922 in Lombard, Illinois, the son of the late Gustave and Sarah Erickson. His family moved to Bear Lake, Michigan in 1935. Following graduation from Bear Lake High School in 1942, Bob enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served in the Pacific during World War II as an airplane electrical mechanic. He returned to Michigan following his discharge and married Doris Mae Nugent on June 12, 1946. Bob worked for the Upjohn Company for 30 years in the chemical engineering department. Following his retirement, he and Doris traveled the United States extensively in their Airstream trailer. In 1992, they purchased a home in Sebring, Florida and divided their time between Florida and two homes in Michigan, Climax and Arcadia. Bob will be lovingly remembered by Doris, his wife of ! 63 years; his three living children, Linda (John) Lehtinen, Lila (Gilbert) Collver and Howard (Judy) Erickson; six gradchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his son, Eric. A memorial service will be held on Monday, March 17, 2008 at the American Legion Post 465 in Climax, Michigan, at 12:00 noon. Pastor Jim Dyke will officiate a celebration of Bob's life. Memorial donations may be made to Borgess Hospice. Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/13/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: SWATHWOOD, SHELDON, WILSON, HENSCHEL, HURLBURT, WRIGHT Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22511/mb.ashx Message Board Post: SWATHWOOD, Inez Age 88 Of Portage, Michigan Died, Wednesday, March 12, 2008 in Plainwell. Mrs. Swathwood was born September 18, 1919 in Maywood, Illinois, to Earle and Nellie (Sheldon) Wilson. In the 1930's, she was a waitress at Holly's Grill in downtown Kalamazoo. On December 14, 1952, Inez and Lewis were married and they enjoyed holding hands for all of their 56 years together. Later Inez was employed with Shakespeare Fishing and Tackle Co. Inez and Lewis moved to Florida to live for several years and then returned to Michigan to live in Fife Lake, before returning to the Kalamazoo area to be nearer to their children. Inez's favorite activities included doing craft projects and spending time with family. Surviving besides her devoted husband, Lewis, are two daughters, Barbara Henschel and Mary Sue (Dan) Hurlbut; five grandchildren, Terry (Debbie) Henschel, Gary (Beth) Henschel, Larry Henschel, Dan Hurlbut, Jr. and David (Marta) Hurlbut; nine great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in de! ath by her daughter, Sue Carol (Swathwood) Wright and by a son-in-law, Marlynn Henschel. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later date. Contributions in memory of Inez may be made to Life Care Center of Plainwell. Arrangements by Winkel Funeral Home, Otsego. Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/14/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: GEREN, BLANCHARD, FETTERS, GEIGER, WETHERBEE, DINGMAN Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22510/mb.ashx Message Board Post: GEREN, Mr. Beryl E. Of Portage, MI Died Tuesday evening, March 11, 2008. Beryl was born December 17, 1919 in Kalamazoo, Michigan, a son of Frank and Emily (Blanchard) Geren. He had been a lifelong Kalamazoo area resident and was employed with Hammond Machinery for 20 years before retiring. He also worked at Sears years ago. He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Elma (Fetters) Geren on June 6, 1988; two brothers and a sister. On August 22, 1998, he was united in marriage to Helen A. (Geiger) Geren, who survives. Also surviving, three children, Lynda (Richard) Wetherbee of Clarksville, TN, Patricia (Thomas) Dingman of Portage, and Dave Geren, Sr. of Portage; eight grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held 11 o'clock Saturday at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Portage Chapel, 411 E. Centre Ave. Private burial will take place at a later date. Memorials may be directed to the Renal Care Group of Kalamazoo! or West Michigan Cancer Center. 343-1508. www.langelands.com. Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/14/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: THOMAS Classification: death Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22509/mb.ashx Message Board Post: THOMAS, Mr. Michael Edward, Sr. Age 52 Of Kalamazoo, MI Passed away Thursday, March 12, 2008. Services will be announced later by the Harper Funeral Home, 521 Douglas Avenue, 342-1000. www.harperfuneralhomeinc.com Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/15/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: STEPHAN, DAGLAS, DOLAN, ALBERTS, BURRUSS Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22508/mb.ashx Message Board Post: STEPHAN, Mrs. Janet Ann Dolan Born July 15, 1941 in Cincinnati, OH, passed on Tuesday, March 11, 2008 in Tampa, FL. Janet was married for 41 years to Charles Stephan, predeceased November 19, 2004. She is survived by her loving mother, Helen Daglas and brother, Edward Dolan, Cincinnati, OH; three adoring children, Diane Alberts, Troy, MI, Richard Stephan, Portage, MI and Sandy Burruss, Trinity, FL and six wonderful grandchildren. A memorial service is being held Sunday, March 15, 2008 at Trinity Memorial Gardens, 12609 Memorial Drive, New Port Richey, FL 34655. Memorial donations can be made to the March of Dimes or Crohn's & Colitis Foundation. Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/15/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: BANKHEAD Classification: death Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22507/mb.ashx Message Board Post: BANKHEAD, Mrs. Ora Lee Age 86 Of Kalamazoo, MI Passed away Thursday, March 12, 2008. Services will be announced later by the Harper Funeral Home, 521 Douglas Avenue, 342-1000. www.harperfuneralhomeinc.com Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/15/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: TRIEMSTRA, VO, VLIETSTRA Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22506/mb.ashx Message Board Post: In Memory of: TRIEMSTRA, Alvin "Al" Born August 26, 1941...and who died at the age of 66, March 1, 2008. He was born in Kalamazoo, to Thomas and Anderia Triemstra. In the nearly 10 years that he spent in the U.S. Army in the Signal Corp., the last three he spent in Vietnam. He extended his stay there in that country in order that he should not be apart from who was to be his wife, "Ellen" Vo'. These two returned to Kalamazoo in November of 1969, when, by and by, they adopted a little girl, Kristen, who they loved as their own, in 1980. And though after 24 years of marriage they, Al and Ellen, parted, both remained loving and devoted parents to Kristen, who will tell you that her Father was always there for her, always, no exceptions. For we at the Gazette, in P&D, Al had a "pre-emptive" personality, easily riled at times! But if you took the time, had the patience to peer beyond the blustering, you would see a gentle soul, a giving soul, giving unto his own impoverishment, for he thought nothing of his own ne! eds, but considered the needs of others before his own. Al is survived by his daughter, Kristen; his grandsons, David and Davontis; a sister, Sinnie Vlietstra; brother, Bert Triemstra, and many nieces, nephews and cousins, and by his dear friend, Christina and her daughters, Mikayla and Melody, to whom he gave with love, caring and without thought for himself. For us at the Kalamazoo Gazette, in P&D, in particular Michelle and Oliver, you will never be forgotten. Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/16/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.

This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: WHL44 Surnames: SENA, DEGRAAF, MAKEIG Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22505/mb.ashx Message Board Post: SENA, Eugene Of Kalamazoo Died suddenly on March 14, 2008. Gene is survived by his wife of 64 years, Marie, daughters Judith DeGraaf of Kalamazoo and Kathryn Makeig of Rockville, MD, four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He was a World War II veteran and part of the design team for the original Mustang in a 30 year career with Ford Motor Company. He will be missed. Ceremonies will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: The American Heart Association, Donations, 3816 Pays Here Circle, Chicago, IL. 60674. Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 S. 9th Street. Eugene's online guest register is available at www.langelands.com. Published in the Kalamazoo Gazette on 3/16/2008. (Posted by a VOLUNTEER-NO family connection) Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.