-

Funeral Services:

Duane Lee McGill, an inspiration to many, died peacefully on Sunday, July 1, 2018 in Ann Arbor.  Duane, 55, of Charlotte, was born September 19, 1962 in Lansing, the son of Dale and Rocksan (Wolcott) McGill. He graduated from Charlotte High School in 1981, where he was a talented football player. He played at Central Michigan University before making the Lansing Crusaders semi-pro league and eventually earning a spot on the New England Patriots. Following his football career, he dedicated his life to inspiring and motivating others as a public speaker and author. His books, videos and speaking engagements impacted many lives, and will leave a lasting legacy of dedication and service to others. Above all, Duane loved his family, “coaching” his children along the way to a life of success and love.

Duane is survived by his five children, Duane McGill, Jr., Eric (Morene) McGill, Dane Kelly McGill, Chase McGill, and Whitney McGill; grandchildren, Julia and Oscar McGill; mother and father, Rocksan and Bill Kelly; siblings, Lanette (Jon) Cater, Kim (James) Baxley, Traci Goucher, Angie McGill Wilkerson, Lynn Goucher, and Robert McGill; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father, Dale McGill.

Friends are encouraged to support Duane’s family at visitation and memorial services.

A memorial service was held at 3 p.m. on Friday, July 6, 2018 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Visitation was from 1 to 3 p.m. on Friday, July 6, just prior to the service.

If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to The Homeless Angels; homelessangels.org.

Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Duane on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.

-

Funeral Services:

David R. “Spike” Uhl, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2018 at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing.  Spike, 64, of Charlotte, was born January 9, 1954 in Charlotte, the son of Darrell and Marquetta (Mulhollan) Uhl.  He attended Charlotte Schools and graduated in 1973. He worked at Specialty Casting, Inc. in Springport for 25 years. He married the love of his life, Teresa Lynn Harris on June 17, 1978.

Spike loved to spend time with his family and they went on many trips.  Camping, amusement parks and going to see his children play sports were some of his favorite things to do.  He was very good at telling tall tales and enjoyed seeing how long the other person believed him.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing and just going for a ride. His most favorite holiday was the 4^th of July and he went to many parades and loved to watch the fireworks.

Spike is survived by his partner in crime and mother of his children, Teresa Uhl; children, Angela (Vaughn) Barnett, Aaron (Hayley) Uhl, Alanna Uhl and Andrew (Angela) Uhl; grandchildren, Kaitlyn, Kyle, Hunter, Daphne, Jaxson, Temperance, M’Kenna and Lakota; great-grandchildren, Parker, Jameson, Sienna, Akira, Kayden, Zaine and Lilith; siblings, Darrell “Mike” (Nancy) Uhl, Gerald “Ike” (Jean) Uhl and Doris (John) Uhl; and many other wonderful extended family.

Spike was preceded in death by his parents, Darrell and Marquetta Uhl; grandchildren, Kayla and Kyle Barnett; and his nephew, Curtis Harris.

Friends are encouraged to support Spike’s family at visitation and funeral services. Funeral services are at 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 7, 2018 at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with Pastor Charles Jenson officiating. Visitation will be from noon to 1 p.m., just prior to the service on Saturday.

If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society or New Hope Community Church.

Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Spike on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.

-

Funeral Services:

Lenore Pauline Schram, 91, of Nasvhille, a small but mighty woman, died peacefully July 4, 2018.  She was born in Novi to Clara and LJ (Schwartz) Putnam on June 22, 1927. She married the boy next door, Hugh Schram, on August 1, 1945. Lenore started studying for her teaching degree at Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti after World War II. Her studies were interrupted by the birth of her children, Jodie Jenks (Nashville, Mich.) and Tim Schram (Hubbell, Mich.). As years went by, Lenore and Hugh travelled the U.S. and landed in the Lansing area. Lenore finished her teaching degree and went on to complete a Master’s Degree in Education at Michigan State University.  She taught sixth grade in Portland, Mich. and continued her career for 17 years as a teacher and reading specialist in the Lansing School district.

Along with busy careers in education, Lenore and Hugh bought a farm near Grand Ledge in 1956.  It became their labor of love and they created AppleSchram Orchard.  In 1987 they sold the farm to their niece, Jane Bush, who provided special friendship and support to her Aunt Lenore. Lenore was an expert quilter, winning blue ribbons at county fairs in Michigan and Florida.  She was an avid gardener and nature lover.  She found her spirit and grace when she was in the garden, walking in nature and spending time at her Canadian camp on Lake Achigan, Ontario with her dear lake friends.

Lenore is survived by her daughter, Jodie Jenks; son, Tim (Kathy) Schram; grandchildren, Scott Laakso, Debbie (Garfield) Rowe, Ira (Tracey) Schram, Emily Schram; many great and great great-grandchildren; sister, Gail Cotter; brother, Hadley Putnam (Carrie Ketterer); and many nieces and nephews; Lisa Neeb and The Luminate Care Giving Team; Joyce and Gerald Edgecomb, the best neighbors you could have; Lynn and Stan Marosz, her backyard Florida neighbors; and her cat Buffy.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Hugh; sisters, Patricia Porritt and Jane Sebastian.

Lenore’s family invites you to join them with your favorite story, poem, song, or dance at her visitation and funeral service. Funeral services are Monday, July 9 at 10 a.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte, with visitation one hour prior to service from 9 to 10 a.m. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Teacher’s Guild.

The family would love to see your favorite story or poem on Lenore’s tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.

Her family will remember Lenore as a small but mighty woman who lived a big life.

-

Funeral Services:

Diana Kay Tharp, a dedicated teacher, died peacefully on Wednesday, July 4, 2018, in Charlotte. Diana, 56, of Charlotte, was born October 24, 1961, in Charlotte, the daughter of Carroll E. and Jane Anne (Smith) Tharp.  She lived an active childhood, always involved in the outdoors and school activities. Following graduation from Charlotte High School in 1979, she earned her bachelors of education from University of South Carolina and spent more than 10 years teaching in Whitmore, S.C., and Fayetteville, N.C. She later taught science at Pansophia Charter School in Coldwater.

Diana devoted her life to her students, always inspiring the wonder of science in them. She often led expeditions along the beaches of South Carolina to rescue migrating turtles. In Michigan, she ensured that foreign exchange students found the best experience in their studies, hosting trips up North to Mackinac Island and beyond. She enjoyed volunteering as a docent at the Binder Park Zoo. Diana volunteered much of her time to her community and her church. As a member of the Gresham United Methodist Church, she helped organize various activities.  She served as her mother, Jane’s “right hand” at the Charlotte Community Nursery Preschool. Diana also loved special trips with her Aunts, and time spent with her nieces and nephews.

Diana is survived by her mother, Jane Ann Tharp; siblings, David (Betsy) Tharp, Sharon Gault, and Mark Tharp; aunts, Helen (Jack) Snedeker and Sue (Dick) Trimble; special nephew, Ian “Bug” Gault; and her nieces, nephews and cousins.

She is predeceased by her father; aunt, Sally Vanderploeg; and her brother-in-law, Danny Gault.

A memorial gathering will be held at a later date.

If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society or Gresham United Methodist Church.

Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Diana on her tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.

-

Funeral Services:

Kyle Edwin Kelley, 50 of Vermontville, a handyman that was always known for helping others, passed away unexpectedly on June 25, 2018 at his home. Kyle was born September 23, 1967. He was very mechanically inclined, rebuilding the home of his family into their dream home. Kyle was a jack-of-all-trades, who had many hobbies and could build or fix almost anything. He was most proud of the cabin he was building that he planned to move to. He recently helped a few friends build their pole barns and other construction. Kyle had a great sense of humor, and way to make you laugh so hard you would cry. He married his beloved wife, Kelli, on August 8, 2008, although they have actually been together for 23 years.

Kyle was an animal-lover, especially German Shepherds and Pitbulls. He leaves behind his many pets including the “best dog he ever had,” Molly. Kyle’s family is very grateful for the time they had with him. He made a lasting impression on anyone he met and will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his wife, Kelli (Bowen) Kelley; parents, Larry and Yvonne Kelley of Charlotte; children, Kalyn Schneckenberger and Ryan Schneckenberger; sisters, Teri (John) Price of Holt, and Amber (Marv) Argersinger of St. Johns; brother, AJ (Ali) Preston of Charlotte; mother-in-law, Sue Bowen; brothers-in-law, Kevin (Lori) Bowen and Kraig (Lisa) Bowen of Charlotte; several nieces and nephews; and two great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Max and Doris Kelley; father-in-law, Larry Bowen; and beloved dog, Shelby.

In keeping with the wishes of Kyle, there will be a Celebration of Life on Sunday, July 15, 2018 at the American Legion from 2 to 5 p.m.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family if desired.

Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Kyle on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.

-

Funeral Services:

Garry F. Craven, formerly of Charlotte, passed away peacefully at his home in Elkhart, Ind. on Sunday, June 24, 2018 at the age of 71. He attended Charlotte High School, graduating in 1965.

He was preceded in death by his father, Frank Craven; and youngest brother, Timothy Craven.

Garry is survived by his mother, Elaine Craven; wife, Sandra Ignafol; sons, Douglas (Lisa) Craven, Mitchell (Michelle) Craven; and stepson, Stephen Krecsmar. Garry was the proud grandfather of Ethan and Olivia, Douglas’s children and Madison, Mitchell’s child. Garry will be fondly remembered by his brothers, Roger (Ruth) Craven, Gregory (Johanna) Craven; and sister, Judy (Jim) Greening and his many nieces and nephews.

Garry was a proud patriot and served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. As an avid conservationist, Garry had a deep love for the Upper Peninsula of Michigan where he enjoyed many seasons hunting, ATV riding, hiking and spending time with family. Remembered as “U.P. Grouser,” he will forever rest up north at Nevins Lake.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

-

Funeral Services:

Barbara Ruth Pittenger, 89, of Charlotte, passed away Tuesday, June 26, 2018, at Eaton County Health and Rehabilitation Services in Charlotte. She was born October 22, 1928, in Lansing, the daughter of Clifford and Marion (Gearhart) Bever. Barb grew up on the family farm in Grand Ledge. She graduated from Grand Ledge High School in 1946. Barb was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She adored her grandchildren and cherished every opportunity she had to spend together with them. Throughout her life Barb enjoyed listening to Big Band music and flowers. In later years she enjoyed her job at the Charlotte Walmart, where she worked as a greeter.

Barb is survived by her children, Doug (Julie) Murray of Louisa, Ky., Sharon (Gary) Russell of Nashville, Ann (Jim) LeMay of DeWitt; 11 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and one great great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert; and two brothers.

Funeral services were held on Friday, June 29, 2018, at 1 p.m. at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. Interment took place at West Carmel Cemetery.

Those desiring may make contributions in Barb’s honor to Ele’s Place in Lansing.

To leave a condolence for the family or to view Barb’s obituary online, please visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.

-

Funeral Services:

Richard Lyman “Dick” Chamberlain, 82, of Haslett, our beloved brother and uncle passed away June 21, 2018. He was born August 23, 1935 in Charlotte. He was a 1953 graduate of Charlotte High School. He begin his career with the U.S. Postal Service as a mail carrier in Charlotte and later in many supervisory roles in Lansing before retiring in 1990 after 35 years of service.  In 1996 he went to work at Hawk Hollow and Eagle Eye Golf Courses, where he made many great friends. He loved spending his winters in The Villages in Florida. He attended MSU and played the drums in the marching and concert bands. He enjoyed parades. He played in the VFW Band, Spartan Alumni Band (winning three national championships), and the Capital Caravan Club Oriental Band. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge 120 of Charlotte and a member of the Lansing Commandery Drill Team. He was a member of the Eaton County Shrine Club and the Capital Commandery. He was the 1973 president of the Charlotte Lions Club. He was an avid fan of MSU sports.

Surviving are his four sisters, Beverly Meeder, Joyce (Gary) Shirkey, Sue Huffman, and Ruth Ann Sigler; six nieces and nephews, Gary Meeder, Nancy Folkertsma, Cindy (Dave) Dunn, Susan Oliver, Kurt Shirkey, and Kyle (Deborra) Shirkey; four great-nieces and one great-nephew.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Lyman and Gertrude Chamberlain and nephew, Kraig Shirkey.

A celebration of Dick’s life will be held in October. We would like to thank all of Dick’s devoted friends for their support and visits during his illness.

Contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice in memory of Dick.

Arrangements were made by Tiffany Funeral Home.  Friends may visit the guest book at tiffanyfuneralhome.com.

-

Funeral Services:

Donald “Donnie” Martin Klingshirn, a faith-filled, teddy bear of a man, died unexpectedly at his home on Wednesday, June 20, 2018.  Donnie, 73, of Charlotte, was born November 11, 1944 in Rogers City, Mich., the son of Alfred and Anna (Grochowski) Klingshirn. He graduated from high school in Rogers City in 1962 and shortly after moved to Charlotte to take a job with Harris Brothers, fellow Rogers City natives. He proudly answered the call to duty when he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served in the Vietnam War, where he helped build the airport in Cam Ranh Bay. Upon his return, he married the love of his life, Jane “Janie” Orban, on May 18, 1968. The two started their family and Donnie went to work for Oldsmobile, retiring in 2004 after over 30 years. In retirement, Donnie worked for Delta Airlines at the Lansing airport, working in many capacities on and off the tarmac.

Donnie and Janie were devout members of St. Mary Parish in Charlotte, where he was very involved in St. Vincent DePaul and the Knights of Columbus, achieving the honor of fourth degree brother knight. Everyone will remember Donnie as the beloved St. Nicholas, visiting Mass during the feast day in full staff and mitre and handing out candy canes. He also sang in the church choir, and participated in every church function throughout the years.

He loved the Detroit Tigers, the ink on his fingertips from reading “real” newspapers, and woodworking. He was a skilled handyman and craftsman, always keeping things running around the house and helping with woodcraft for Janie’s elementary art classes at St. Mary School. He loved music, and even enjoyed the opportunity to sing the “12 days of Christmas” on stage with Kenny Rogers. Donnie remained proud of his service to his country, his faith, and his family. One of his greatest joys in life as “Dzia Dzia” was time spent with his grandchildren, especially attending their many activities and events.

Donnie is survived by his wife of 50 years, Jane Klingshirn; three daughters, Marcy Klingshirn, Kristy (Steve) Shepard, and Jenny (Larry) Hart; five grandchildren, Amelia, Annalise, Adeline, Gunnar and Archar; four siblings, Betty Valentin, Barbara (Gary) Lamb, Jimmy (Nancy) Klingshirn, and Mary (Mike) Witulski; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his brother, Charles Klingshirn; sister-in-law, Gayle Klingshirn; and his parents.

Friends are encouraged to support Donnie’s family at visitation and funeral services. Funeral Mass was held Monday, June 25, 2018 at St. Mary Catholic Church, with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating.

If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to St. Mary Parish or St. Vincent DePaul.

Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Donnie on his tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.