Christopher “Chris” Brian Chimel, age 32 of Scottville, passed away on Wednesday, October 29, 2014. Chris was born on May 21, 1982 in Ludington, son of Pamela (Schramm) Chimel and the late Rick Chimel. Chris attended Mason County Central High School and graduated with the class of 2000. Chris worked at Solberg’s Marina in Manistee and most recently he worked at Whitehall Industries here in Ludington. Chris was a loving, kind, thoughtful person always putting others first. Family was very important to Chris and he loved spending time with them, especially his mom who he said was his best friend. On Labor Day weekends the two of them would go to the Mackinaw Bridge to participate in the bridge walk and have done this 5 times in the last 7 years. He loved to be outdoors, and went on many survival camping trips with his friends. The weather was so cold on some of those trips we don’t know how they survived. From a young age Chris showed a talent for drawing and was a excellent artist. Chris was a very smart and talented man, he purchased a Porsche, tore it completely down to the frame and totally rebuilt it. He was so proud to hear it run the first time. Chris had a love for music. Although he never had any lessons he was a serious “self-taught” guitarist who wrote and played his own music. When Chris first began playing guitar, his best friend and longtime band mate Justin Bahr was right there playing along with him. He also organized several bands over the past few years spending hours in the basement practicing with them. On many warm summer nights (some pretty cool nights too) if you were in the neighborhood you could often hear Chris strumming away on one of his many guitars. Chris is survived by his mother, Pamela Marie Chimel of Ludington; brothers, Mike Chimel of Scottville and Gary (Pon) Hillier, Jr. of Holland Paton, NY; nephews, Gary Ray ”Trey”, Jonathon and Brian Hillier; and he will be greatly missed by all his aunts, uncles, cousins and especially his cat, Strat. He is preceded in death by his father, Rick Chimel; and grandparents, Richard and Marilyn Schramm and Vern and Marion Chimel. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at 11:00AM on Friday November 7, 2014 at Path of Life Ministries in Ludington with Dr. Craig Nelson officiating. The family will receive friends for visitation from 10:00AM until time of service. Memorial contributions in memory of Chris may be directed to Path of Life Ministries. Please feel free to share a photo or memory with Chris’s family at www.oakgrovefh.com. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements with Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center.

View Full Notice → Christopher Chimel

John Alan Huck, age 53 of Branch passed away on Saturday November 8, 2014 at Spectrum Health Butterworth – Campus in Grand Rapids. He was born on February 21, 1961 in Marietta, OH, son of the late Pauline A. Huck. John enjoyed working on cars and especially spending time with his grandchildren. John is survived by his daughters, Amber (Michael) Martinez and Jaimie Harris both of Ludington; 2 sons, Dustin Huck of Branch and John (Ashley Martinez) Huck of Ludington; grandchildren, Albrianna, Braylee and Jayden Huck, Gabriela Mitchell, Chad Eastway, Savannah Martinez and Brody Schnell; friends, Carla and Robert. Also surviving are numerous brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and his pet dog and best friend, Snoop. Cremation will take place and no service is planned at this time. Memorial contributions in memory of John may be directed to his family c/o Oak Grove Funeral Home to help with his final expenses. Feel free to share a memory or photo with John’s family at www.oakgrovefh.com. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements with Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center.

View Full Notice → John Huck

Roy Edward Putnam, age 64 of Ludington, passed away on Sunday November 9, 2014 from injuries sustained in a vehicle accident. He was born on September 30, 1950 in Saginaw, son of the Robert E. and Virginia (Herbin) Putnam. Roy attended Birch Run High School and graduated with the class of 1969. Roy married Bobbie Norwood on July 6, 2004. Roy worked as an engineer with the CSX Railroad for 41 years before retiring on September 30, 2010. He enjoyed being outdoors doing just about anything, riding his motorcycle, hunting and spending time with family. Roy is survived by his wife, Bobbie Putnam of Ludington; daughter, Rebecca (Kirk) Richards of Mt. Morris; son, Robert E. Putnam of Birch Run; mother, Virginia Putnam of Gladwin; step-children, Duane, Mary, Shirley, Aleisha, Jessica and Shawn; 2 brothers, Gary (Connie) Putnam of Birch Run and Rodney (Mary) Putnam of Beaverton; grandchildren, Juanita Stokes, Brittney Smeaton and Robert Putnam, Jr.; great-grandchildren, Sophia, Gabriella and Aria; Friends, Jim (Cathy) Van Syckle of Lake City and Rick (Terri) Guthridge of Ludington; and several step-grandchildren, step-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews; He is preceded in death by his father, Robert Putnam; step-son, Edward McQuiston. Funeral services for Roy will be held at 1:00PM on Friday November 14, 2014 at Oak Grove Funeral Home. The family will receive friends for visitation from 11:00AM until time of service. Cremation will follow and final interment will take place at a later date. Memorial contributions in memory of Roy may be directed to the Putnam family. Please feel free to share a memory or photo with Roy’s family at www.oakgrovefh.com. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements with Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center.

View Full Notice → Roy Putnam

View Full Notice → Michael David Brillhart

Mary Louise (Fabiano) Claire, age 85, of Ludington passed away on November 9, 2014 at Ludington Woods Living Center. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at 12:00 PM on Saturday, November 29, 2014 at St. Simon Catholic Church in Ludington with Father Wayne Wheeler officiating. The family will receive friends for visitation from 10:30 AM until the time of service. A full obituary will be published at a later date. Please feel free to share a photo or Memory with Mary’s Family at www.oakgrovefh.com. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements with Oak Grove Funeral Home and Cremation Center.

View Full Notice → Mary Claire

Burlene McCrorey, age 73, of Ludington, has reunited with her late husband Joe on November 12, 2014. Burlene was born on July 3, 1941 in Kalamazoo, daughter of the late Harry and Betty (Gorham) Gildea. She graduated from University High School in Kalamazoo. On April 23, 1960 Burlene married Joseph McCrorey at St. Joseph Church in Kalamazoo. She worked at Memorial Medical Center and retired on July 1, 2011 after 22 years of service. Burlene was a member of the Ludington Boat Club. She was an avid golfer and she was well known for her artistic abilities. Burlene is survived by her children, Mike (Charrise) McCrorey of Elkhart, Indiana, Suzanne (Duane) Tyndall of Ludington, Mark (Tina) McCrorey of Richland; grandchildren, Megan McCrorey, Keith McCrorey, Theresa Tyndall, Joey Tyndall, Tyler McCrorey, Kelcey McCrorey and Caleb McCrorey; sister, Sharon (Don) Alsbro; brother, Kim Gildea; dear friend, Kimberlee Dekker; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Joseph McCrorey. A celebration of life gathering will be held on Saturday, November 29, 2014 from 2-4 PM at the Ludington Boat Club. Memorial contributions in memory of Burlene’s name may be directed to the family or Hospice of Michigan. Please feel free to share a memory or photo with Burlene’s family at www.oakgrovefh.com. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements with Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center.

View Full Notice → Burlene McCrorey

Doris R. Hulse, 88, of Free Soil, passed away Friday, November 14, 2014 at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. Doris was born in Flint, MI to George and Bernice (Edmonds) Hansel on November 28, 1925. She went to high school at Manistee High School and graduated in 1943. She married Charles Hulse on November 22, 1944 in Olathe, Kansas; he preceded her in death on January 29, 1999. She worked at Century Boat’s toy division in Manistee and was a cook at Free Soil Community Schools during 1950’s. She was Board Secretary for Free Soil United Methodist Church for over 30 years, and was a member there for 63 years. She served on the Free Soil Township Election Board, and she was a member of the VFW Walsh Post #4499 Auxiliary for 36 years. She enjoyed spending winters on the Colorado River with her husband, Charlie, playing bingo and spending time with her family and friends. Doris is survived by her sons, Charles (Lannie) Hulse of Constantine, MI, Brian Hulse of Fernandina Beach, FL; daughter Christine Hulse of St. Augustine, FL; six grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren and one great-great grandson. Doris was preceded in death by her parents, George and Bernice; her grandparents Elsie and Merrick Edmonds with whom she spent her high school years. Funeral services will be held at Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Manistee on Tuesday, November 18, 2014 at 3:00 p.m. with Pastor Richard D. Roberts of Free Soil & Fountain United Methodist Church officiating. The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. until time of service. VFW Auxiliary Post # 4499 will conduct honors following the service. Burial will take place at Maple Grove Cemetery in Free Soil. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Free Soil & Fountain United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 173, Free Soil, MI 49411. Condolences may be left in Doris’ online guestbook at www.oakgrovefl.com. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements to Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Manistee

View Full Notice → Doris Hulse

Stewart Dilly, age 73 of Southfield and Ludington, passed away on Saturday, November 15, 2014, at Ludington Woods Living Center. Stewart was born on September 19, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan, the son of the late Stewart Dilly and Mary Ellen Ruddy. He attended Wayne State University and graduated with A Master’s degree in History and a specialist degree in School Administration. On June 29, 1968, he married Ann Laing at the First Presbyterian Church in Saginaw, Michigan. Stewart retired from Ferndale Public Schools in 2000 after 37 years of dedicated service, 26 of those years serving as principal of Taft Elementary School in Ferndale. Following his retirement in Ferndale, he spent the next several years happily teaching American History at Shrine High School. He was a former member of Northbrook Presbyterian Church and is an attending member of Greenfield Presbyterian Church. Stewart was a master gardener, a scholar of World and American History, and had a great passion for travel. He is survived by his wife Ann Dilly; children, Dr. Jason Dilly, Erin (Stephen Buntrock) Dilly, Heather (Jonathan) Sale; grandkids, Anna, Catherine (Catie), Haley, Grayson; cousins, Phyllis Patterson, Doreen Gray, Irene MacColeman, Joe (Donna) Marcella, Fred (Susan) Marcella; nieces and nephews, Mary (Jim) Griggs, Janet Geeham, Robert (Valerie) Mowatt, Patricia “Trish” (Michael Jusak) Mowatt and other family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Agnes Mowatt, Margarite Buckingham, Jean Jackson; and Aunt Jean Richardson. Services will be held at 4:30 PM on Sunday, November 23, 2014, at Greenfield Presbyterian Church in Berkley with Reverend Peter Moore officiating and a reception following. The family will receive friends for visitation from 2:30 PM until the time of service. Memorial contributions in memory of Stewart may be directed to Lewy Body Dementia Association at www.lbda.org/go/donate. Please feel free to share a memory or photo with his family at www.oakgrovefh.com. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements with Oak Grove Funeral Home and Cremation Center.

View Full Notice → Stewart Dilly

Sandra Lea Rotzien, age 65 of Ludington, passed away on November 21, 2014 at the University of Michigan Hospital. She was born on February 18, 1949 in Texas City, Texas, daughter of the late Harold Russell and Elma Ida (Haglund) Sheely. She attended and graduated from Newton Wesley and Perry Normal School afterwards working as a parapro for Ludington Area Schools and retiring in 2013. On May 22, 1982 Sandra married Steven Michael Rotzien in Ludington. She was a member of the Emanuel Lutheran Church in Ludington. Sandra was a loving, charismatic, energetic and compassionate woman who spent her time enriching the lives of others. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and participating in any outdoor activity including fishing and gardening with her cherished roses. She enjoyed the sound of music and always had it playing. Sandra enjoyed spending her time sewing. Her true passion in life was giving back to children to help them maximize their potential while always being there for them. She would never dare to give up on any of the children that crossed her path. Sandra is survived by her husband, Steven Michael Rotzien of Ludington; son, Peter (Amy) Clark of Grand Rapids; daughter, Jennifer (Richard) Liston of Fate, TX; grandchildren, Leah, Sarah and Tyler Clark, Corina, Carlton, and Emma Liston; sister, Karen Crystal; brothers, Raymond Sheely and Gregory (Nancy) Sheely; and many other family and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, Harold Russell and Elma Ida (Haglund) Sheely. Funeral services for Sandra will be held at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, November 26, 2014 at Emanuel Lutheran Church in Ludington. The family will receive friends for visitation on Tuesday, November 25, 2014 from 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Oak Grove Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Sandra’s name to Ludington Area Schools Youth Resource Center via Ludington High School 508 N. Washington Ave, Ludington, Michigan 49431. Please feel free to share a memory or photo with Sandra’s family at www.oakgrovefh.com. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements with Oak Grove Funeral Home and Cremation Center.

View Full Notice → Sandra Rotzien

Eleanor Joyce Collard, age 79, of Luther passed away on November 23, 2014 at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. She was born on January 25, 1935 in Pontiac, Michigan, daughter of the late Lyle and Anna (Norton) Jewell. On June 23, 1951 Eleanor married Ralph Lewis Collard in Pontiac. She was a member of Irons Union Church and the Peacock Senior Center. Eleanor enjoyed spending time in her garden and reading or going and exploring new places when she traveled. She loved volunteering at The Irons Union Church Mission Store. Eleanor is survived by her daughter, Valerie (Jim) Leishman of Hart; sons, Jerry (Maxine) Collard of Holt, Ken (Eleanor) Collard of Wyoming, Douglas Collard of Luther, and Alan Collard of Traverse City; grandchildren, Chuck and Mark Gardner, Leasa Patterson, Aaron Collard, Brian Collard, Aimee Collard, Tabatha Quillen, and Ashley Collard,; 15 great-grandchildren; sister, Kay (Ron) Dion; brother, Paul (Linda) Jewell; many other nieces, nephews, and cousins. She is preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Lewis Collard; parents, Lyle and Anna (Norton) Jewell; daughter, Linda Collard; granddaughter, Monique Hahn; 2 brothers, Austin and Jimmy Jewell. Funeral services for Eleanor will be held at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, November 26, 2014 at Oak Grove Funeral Home in Ludington. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, November 25, 2014 from 5:00-7:00 PM. Cremation will follow and final interment will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions in memory of Eleanor may be directed to The Iron Union Church Mission Store. Please feel free to share a memory or photo with Eleanor’s family at www.oakgrovefh.com. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements to Oak Grove Funeral Home and Cremation Center.

View Full Notice → Eleanor Collard

Ellsworth Clayton Gangwer, age 89 of Ludington and formerly of Fountain, passed away on Wednesday December 3, 2014 at home. He was born on June 8, 1925 in Fruitport, son of the late Frank William and Mary E. (Lynch) Gangwer. Ellsworth served in the United States Army for 23 years, retiring with an honorable discharge as Sergeant First Class on June 30, 1968. He then also worked for Henry Ford Hospital and for the Army ROTC in his later years. Ellsworth married Mary Ellen Augustine on June 25, 1946 in Muskegon. He was a member of the Disabled American Veterans. Ellsworth is survived by his wife Mary Gangwer; children, Ruth (Jim) Dickey, Terry (Tori) Gangwer, Danny (Sue) Gangwer and Barbara (Mark) Cormany; grandchildren, Suzanne Bishop, Sharon Dickey, Christina Hansen, Anna Lodes, Stephanie Woodrum, Corey Gangwer and Coryn Balaskovits; and 17 great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents; and brothers and sisters. Cremation has taken place and a celebration of life gathering will be held from 11:00AM until 1:00PM on Saturday December 6, 2014 at Oak Grove Funeral Home. At 1:00PM, members from the active duty United States Army will perform military honors. Memorial contributions in memory of Ellsworth may be directed to the American Diabetes Association. Feel free to share a memory or photo with Ellsworth’s family at www.oakgrovefh.com. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements with Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center.

View Full Notice → Ellsworth Gangwer

Virginia C. Basil, age 97 of Manistee, died Tuesday December 9, 2014 at the Birchwood Adult Foster Care Home. She was born November 14, 1917 in St. Louis, Missouri the daughter of the late Edgar and Emma (Hoenemann) Meyer. She married Frank Basil on February 4, 1944 at Concordia Lutheran Church in Maplewood, Missouri; he preceded her in death on December 5, 1976. Virginia enjoyed crocheting blankets for family members, playing cards especially Rummy, doing crossword puzzles and word searches, fishing, and visiting with family and friends. In later years, nothing brought her more joy than a good cup of coffee and petting the dogs and cats at Birchwood. She is survived by her son, Davis Basil of Brethren; grandchildren, Danielle Baysinger of Manistee, David (Rebecca) Basil of Junction City, KS, D’Anna (Curt) Basil of Fountain, Diane (Elmer) Basil of Fountain, and Deidre (Daniel) Malfroid of Wellston; and great-grandchildren, David Basil III of Junction City, KS and Lalaina Nihranz of Manistee. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive along with a special friend, Lorraine Basil of Fountain. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Richard, Gilbert and Harold, and her sister, Lucille. Cremation has taken place and a private memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions in Virginia’s name may be directed to the Homeward Bound Animal Shelter in Manistee. Please visit her personal page of memories at www.oakgrovefh.com. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements to Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Manistee.

View Full Notice → Virginia Basil

Bruce Don Brown, age 69, of Ludington died Wednesday evening December 17, 2014 unexpectedly at his home. He was born on June 1, 1945 in Hart, Michigan the son of the late Ellsworth & Betty (Lindquist) Brown. He graduated from Ludington High School in 1963, Michigan State University in 1967 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology/Agriculture, and Michigan State University in 1969 with a Masters in Agricultural Education. He married Phyllis Christine Green on October 26, 1974 at the Cadillac Revival Center in Cadillac, MI. Bruce was employed as a contract tax assessor by Arcadia & Filer Townships in Manistee County, Colfax and Shelby Townships in Oceana County, and Selma Township in Wexford County. He was a member of Saint Paul United Methodist Church of Ludington. Other memberships included the Farm Bureau, the Michigan Assessors Association, and the Northwest Michigan Assessors Association (NWMAA). Bruce loved farming, taking his grandkids for golf cart rides, Detroit Lions and MSU Football. Survivors include his wife; Phyllis Brown, two children; Brad Brown and Barbie (Derek) Eaton, and grandchildren; Emma, Ayden, Ava Mae, & Landon all of Ludington, siblings; Cathy (Ron) Kudich of Nashville, TN, Nancy (Jay) Hill of Portage, MI, Janice Hill of Kalamazoo, MI, Wayne (Gloria) Brown of Ludington, and Wendy (Tim) Marek of Custer. In addition to his parents, a brother-in-law; John Hill preceded him in death. Funeral Services for Bruce D. Brown will be held Monday, December 22, 2014 at 11:00 AM at Saint Paul United Methodist Church located at 3212 West Kinney Road, Ludington with Pastor Jon Pohl officiating. The family will receive friends at the Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Ludington on Sunday, December 21st from 1-4 PM and at the church Monday morning from 10:00 AM until time of service. Memorials in Bruce’s name may be directed to the Saint Paul United Methodist Church Youth. Please visit Bruce’s personal page of memories at www.oakgrovefh.com to share a photo or story. The family has entrusted the Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center of Ludington with funeral arrangements.

View Full Notice → Bruce Brown

Raymond Kenneth Merrill, age 85 of Brethren, died Friday, December 19, 2014 at his home. He was born July 17, 1929 in Flint the son of the late Edwin and Verna (Madison) Merrill. He graduated from Beecher High School in Flint and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. Ray married Arlene Hardy on July 21, 1958 at the Atlas Baptist Church in Goodrich, MI. He was employed as a tool grinder at General Motors – Buick Division in Flint for 42 years; retiring in 1992. Ray was a member of the Lakeview Church of the Brethren and the Flint Muddlers when he lived in Flint. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, woodworking, oil painting, gardening and doing word search puzzles. He is survived by his wife, Arlene; 3 daughters, Terri, Lucinda (Ken), and Pamela; 5 grandchildren, Jeremy (Jen), Melissa, Angelique (Dan), Robert (Rebecca) and Raymond; 3 great-grandchildren, Gavin, McKenzie and Jack; 2 brothers, Norman (Lois) and Charles (Hazel); and his sister, Joan (Dale). He was also preceded in death by his grandson, Randy, and 2 brothers, Richard and Bruce. Funeral services for Ray will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 23, 2014 at the Oak Grove Funeral Home in Manistee with Pastor Merritt Bongard officiating. Burial will follow in Brethren Cemetery. The family will received friends at the funeral home on Monday, December 22nd from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Memorial contributions in Ray’s name may be directed to the Lakeview Church of the Brethren. Please visit his personal page of memories at www.oakgrovefh.com to share a story or photo with his family. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements to Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Manistee.

View Full Notice → Raymond Merrill

Edward Ellsworth Shook, age 87 of LeRoy, died Saturday December 27, 2014 at his home. He was born August 18, 1927 in Detroit the son of the late Wilbur E. and Bertha M. (Russell) Shook. He attended Mackenzie High School in Detroit, Highland Park Junior College, earned a Bachelor’s degree from Wayne State University and his Master’s Degree from Michigan State University. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Edward married Jeanne A. Hutchinson on January 12, 1946 in Detroit and they have been married almost 69 years. He was employed as a sales manager for Union Carbide for several years and after moving from Kokomo, Indiana to LeRoy, he was sales manager for Nartron in Reed City until his retirement in 1996. He was a member of the Elks Club in Cadillac. Edward enjoyed remodeling, landscaping, square dancing, and working on the computer. He volunteered doing taxes for senior citizens for many years and dearly loved his wife, children and grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Jeanne; children, Edward (Hannah) Shook of Ward, CO, Randyl (Patrick) Lynaugh of Lansing, Thomas (Carolyn) Shook and Teryn (Tim) Johnson both of LeRoy; grandchildren, Ginger Hroba and Mimi Hrobra both of Chandler, AZ, David (Erin) Hroba of Virginia Beach, VA, Tyler Shook and Alivia Shook of LeRoy; great-grandson, Ethan Hroba of Virginia Beach, VA and several step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren. Several nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Wilma Shook; brother, Wilbur “Bill” Shook; and infant sister, Phyllis. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be directed to Pine River Area Schools. Please visit his personal page of memories at www.oakgrovefh.com to share a photo story. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements to Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Manistee.

View Full Notice → Edward Shook

Roger E. Pollock, age 75 of Ludington, after a long illness, passed away on January 7, 2015, at Tendercare of Ludington. Roger was born on June 4, 1939 in Detroit, son of the late, Elmore and Virginia (Rough) Pollock. He attended and graduated from Dondero High School. He graduated from Ferris State University with a degree in Marketing and enjoyed his time playing football for Ferris. He joined the Army and while serving in the National Guard he saw active duty during the the Detroit riots. Roger started his career with Standard Oil in the Upper Peninsula until he discovered a restaurant for sale in Ludington. After the purchase he rebuilt a larger restaurant, The Swedish Coffee Pot. It was popular for its swedish pancakes and mile high pies. He also purchased a small restaurant downtown Ludington that he named Pot West. People came to the restaurant for clam chowder, stacked sandwiches and the daily “dumb” joke. In the past Roger served as the president of the Jaycees and Commodore of the Ludington Yacht Club. He enjoyed sailing, golfing and sports, especially University of Michigan Football -Go Blue. Roger is survived by Holly Pollock; children, Kevin (Isabella) Pollock of Madison Heights, Robin (Bil) Kopas of Plantation, FL; step children, Julie (John) Tulloch, Kelly (Conor) Dunstan) both of Grand Haven; grandchildren, Emily, Allison and Amanda Kopas, Oona Dunstan, and Sadie Tulloch; and faithful companion, Morgan. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother Rod Ryder. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends. A funeral service for Roger will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday January 13, 2015 at Oak Grove Funeral Home in Ludington with Father Mic Shriver officiating. The family will receive friends at the Oak Grove Funeral Home and Cremation Center on Monday January 12, 2015 from 5 to 7 PM and Tuesday morning from 10:00 AM until the time of service. Memorials in Rogers name may be directed to Animal Friends or Community Cat TNR. Please feel free to visit Roger’s personal page of memories at www.oakgrovefh.com to share a photo or a memory. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements with Oak Grove Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Ludington.

View Full Notice → Roger Pollock

Richard Bruce Ricklefs, 76, of Ludington, Ml passed away on Friday, January 9, 2015 at Great Lakes Specialty Hospital in Muskegon, MI after being hospitalized for one month. Richard was the son of Charles and Anna (Bentz) Ricklefs. Richard had been diagnosed at the age of three with cerebral palsy and had to make repeated trips to University Hospital in Ann Arbor where a total of 21 surgeries were Performed over a period of 23 years. Despite his debilitating disease, with the help of family, friends and sponsorship of the Ludington Rotary Club, he was able to attend school and graduated in 1961 at the age of twenty-three. He then attended Michigan Division of Vocational Rehabilitation and was in a 24-month drafting program, which he accomplished despite having two additional surgeries. About the same time he was deemed ready for employment, a vacancy occurred in the Drafting Department of Jackson Vibrators, Inc. Within a week of his interview, he was assigned to detailed drafting and was accepted on equal footing for his work load. Their only adaption was taking over his turn to go for morning coffee. With determination and perseverance to meet his goals and with a bright outlook and acceptance of what life could offer him, his employment career spanned thirty years of happy and satisfying productivity. After retirement, he enjoyed a wide variety of hobbies, including reading, watching all sports, listening to music, photography and developing his own pictures and woodworking in his own workshop. After Richard’s mother passed away in 1991, his sister, Sheryl, moved into the family home to assist Richard with his daily needs but she also introduced him to many new interests when he became wheelchair bound. Despite the bulk of his wheelchair, he attended concerts, experienced mall shopping (he became an avid shopper), and enjoyed dining at a wide variety of restaurants. He also enjoyed the company of Sheryl’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who all loved their “Uncle Dude”. He was also devotedly cared for by Chris Elliott of Ludington for the last seven years. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Gary and Raymond. He is survived by two sisters, Charleene Cooper of Grand Haven, Sheryl O’Brien of Ludington, two brothers, Michael and Kaye (Fisher) Ricklefs of Ludington, and James Ricklefs of Ludington, sister-in-law Marie Ricklefs of Muskegon and many nieces and nephews. At Richard’s request, there will be no memorial service. Cremation has taken place and a private family graveside service will be held at a later date at Lakeview Cemetery in Ludington. Donations may be made to the Michigan Cerebral Palsy Children’s Fund. Please feel free to visit Richard’s personal page of memories at www.oakgrovefh.com to share a memory. The family has entrusted Oak Grove Funeral Home and Cremation Center with arrangements.

View Full Notice → Richard Ricklefs

Emil J. Hoch, age 84 of Baldwin passed away on January 15, 2015 at Spectrum Health Ludington Hospital. Emil was born on January 11, 1931 in Ludington, the son of the late Emil and Veronica (Nagele) Hoch. He attended Ludington High School and graduated in 1950. Emil served in the U.S. Navy on the U.S.S. Keppler. In 1955 Emil married Carol M. Bradshaw in Ludington and they spent 59 wonderful years together. He worked for Sealed Power Corporation and retired in 1992. Emil is a member of the Baldwin Baptist Church. His greatest joy in life came from his wife, children, and grandchildren. He was a master craftsman with the ability to “Emilize” anything and liked to spend his time hunting, riding motorcycles, camping, traveling and especially exploring Colorado. Emil is survived by his wife, Carol M. Hoch of Baldwin; children, Sheryl (Richard) DeWeerd of Ludington, Kathleen Holtz of Muskegon, Thomas (Terri) Hoch of Muskegon; grandchildren, Nathan (April) DeWeerd of Ludington, Ryan (Misti) DeWeerd of Camp Pendleton, CA, Ashley (Bryan) Briggs of Valdez, AK, Shawn DeWeerd of Grand Rapids, Emily (Rick Hurst) Holtz of Toano, VA, Bradley Hoch, Ian Hoch, and Shayna Hoch all of Muskegon; 6 great grandchildren; sister, Helen (Don) Albrecht of Hart; 5 sister-in-laws; 4 brother-in-laws; several nieces and nephews and many other family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Alice (Derral) VanLoon; brother-in-law and best friend, Roy Schmidt. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Monday January 19, 2015 at Baldwin Baptist Church with Pastor David Stiles officiating. Memorial contributions in Emil’s name may be directed to the Baldwin Baptist Church or Alzheimer’s Association. Please feel free to share a photo or memory on Emil’s personal webpage at www.oakgrovefh.com. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements with Oak Grove Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Ludington.

View Full Notice → Emil Hoch

Hiram Blackmer Early, age 63 of Ludington, passed away on January 14, 2015 at his home. Hiram was born on June 25, 1951 in Detroit son of the late Harris and Virginia (Blackmer) Early. He served in the U.S. Army from 1969 to 1972. Afterwards he worked for the Detroit Police Department until 1986. He also worked as an instructor of Criminal Justice and firearm safety at West Shore Community College. Hiram was a member of the NRA and he enjoyed spending his time hunting and fishing. Hiram is survived by his children, Jennifer(John) Kaufmann of Detroit, Amber (Brian) Logan of Canton, Hiram Early of Detroit; grandchildren, Chelsea Early, Bailey Early, Ronny Simmons Jr., Hiram Ray Early; siblings, Cynthia (Rick) Reda, Rod Early, Michele (Tom) Stacer and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held for Hiram at a later date. Memorial contributions in honor of Hiram may be directed to any area first responders, fire departments, or police departments. Please feel free to share a photo or memory with Hiram’s family on his personal webpage at www.oakgrovefh.com. The family has entrusted funeral arrangements with Oak Grove Funeral Home and Cremation Center.

View Full Notice → Hiram Early

Brian Russell Whitman, Age 35 of Ludington passed away Tuesday, January 20, 2015 surrounded by his family. He was born on March 8, 1979 in Ludington, MI the son of Frederick R. & Tracey L. (Morin) Whitman. He was a 1997 graduate of Ludington High School, earned his Associates Degree from West Shore Community College, and was just shy of his Bachelor’s Degree from Ferris State University. He married Nicole M. Larsen at Bethany Lutheran Church in Ludington on September 1, 2012. Brian was a Production Control Manager at Harsco Rail in Ludington. He loved to be in the outdoors and loved to hunt and fish. During high school he played basketball and ran cross country and track. He still holds the 300 M Hurdle Record at Ludington High School. He was also a pole vaulter at Saginaw Valley State University for two years. An avid fast pitch softball pitcher, he was a member of the Kelder Poured Walls Team that won the NAFA Nationals. He was the Most Valuable Pitcher. He was also a member of Two State Championship Teams, Kelder Poured Walls and Steve’s Bar. Brian was very family oriented. His family meant everything to him. They include his wife; Nicole M. Whitman and son to be, his parents; Frederick & Tracey Whitman, his sisters; Rebecca (Mike) Heemstra and Emily (Jeff) Caspersen, niece and nephews; Annika & Evan Heemstra and Mason Caspersen, his grandmother; Elizabeth Morin, his father-in-law; Andrew Larsen, and mother-in-law; Marguerite (Gary) Engfer all of Ludington. Numerous Aunts, Uncles, & Cousins also survive. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather; Donald Morin, and by his paternal grandparents; James & Beverly (Gorzynski) Whitman. Memorial Services for Brian R. Whitman will be held Saturday, January 24, 2015 at 11:00 AM at the Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Ludington with Pastors B. Douglas Niemi and William Huether officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday evening from 5-8 PM and Saturday morning from 10:00 AM until time of service. Memorials may be directed to the family to establish an Athletic Scholarship in Brian’s name at Ludington High School. Please visit Brian’s personal page of memories at www.oakgrovefh.com to share a story or photo. The family has entrusted the Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center with funeral arrangements.

View Full Notice → Brian Whitman