Current Issue
Obituaries — March 11, 2010
Berry
Mrs. Mary Berry, age 96, of Rockford went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 7, 2010. She grew up in Plainfield Township, where her father was a truck farmer. She attended Western Michigan University and worked at Wolverine World Wide.
On October 28, 1938, Mary married Lyle, and they also had a farm with Mary helping whenever she was needed. They raised cattle, and Mary supplemented the family income by making and selling butter and eggs. She was the caregiver for both sets of parents, Randall and Berry. They were a close-knit family, all living nearby.
For 13 years, Mary worked as a cook for Rockford Public Schools, retiring in 1974. She was a life-long member of Rockford United Methodist Church, volunteered at the North Kent Service Center, and was a second-generation member of the Monday Club.
Until the day of her death, Mary was in total control of her life. She was an eclectic and avid reader, oftentimes reading a book a day. Even with arthritis, Mary did beautiful needlework and ceramics, making cherished gifts for family and friends. Throughout her life, she had cats who were always her companions, and each one was very special. Mary was a very detailed person, and this trait has been passed on to her devoted children.
Mary is survived by her children, Sue and Ray Pletcher of Madison, Ohio, John and Sandy Berry of Munford, Ala., Paul and Barbara Berry of Rockford; daughter-in-law, Mrs. Doris Hickerson; 12 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; sister, Mrs. June Davis; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lyle Berry; her son, Bud Berry; brothers, Donald Randall and Eric Randall; and sister, Kay Tomaszewski.
The service for Mrs. Berry is Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. at the Pederson Funeral Home with Pastor Jan Rogacki officiating. Interment is in Blythefield Memory Gardens. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider North Kent Service Center.
Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.
Carpenter
Mrs. Inez P. Carpenter, age 92, of Fruitport died Wednesday, March 3, 2010. She was born in Kent City, Mich., on April 29, 1917, to Arthur Leroy and Ruby (Monroe) Walcott, and married Walter Carpenter on August 30, 1940.
Mrs. Carpenter had been employed as an executive secretary at Consumers Power for many loyal years until retiring in 1972. She was a charter member of Pine River Association and PTA and an active Girl Scouts leader. Inez was an avid hunter and fisherman. She will be dearly missed.
Surviving are her grandchildren, Allen Carpenter of Muskegon, Belinda Carpenter of Mo., Evan Carpenter of Ill.; great-grandchildren, Howard, Jonathen, Adam, Jacob and Mallory; and three great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter; son, William; daughter, Beverly; and brother, Ivan Walcott.
Per the family’s request, no services will be held. Please visit www.clockfuneralhome.com to leave a memory or sign the online guest book.
Arrangements were made by Clock Life Story Funeral Home, Fruitport.
Print This Story
Obituaries — February 25, 2010
Vogler
Mrs. Vera Vogler, 75, died on Wednesday, February 10, 2010, at St. Anne’s Mead in Southfield, Mich., after an eight-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Family was at her bedside for her passing. She had been a resident of Auburn Hills, Mich. for the last seven years, and was a former resident of Rockford for 37 years.
Mrs. Vogler was born Vera Mae Streng, on February 9, 1935, to Joseph and Dorothy Streng in Maple Grove, Mich.—the fourth of five children. A short time later, the family moved to a farm in Beal City, Mich. She was elected homecoming queen of her high school before going on to attend Central Michigan University on an academic scholarship. It is there that she met her future husband, Roger James Vogler, whom she married on June 9, 1956, shortly after earning her bachelor of science degree in home economics.
After initially residing in Garden City, Mich., Roger and Vera eventually settled in Rockford, where they raised their six children. While in Rockford, Vera was an active parishioner of Our Lady of Consolation Catholic Church as well as the Consolata Guild in Belmont.
A lover of flowers, books and the arts, she enjoyed expressing her creativity through gardening, cooking and painting. She was also an excellent seamstress who, having made her own wedding gown, found no difficulty making clothing for herself as well as her children and 18 grandchildren.
Vera also cherished people. She was an active volunteer for school functions and always looked forward to hosting another get-together, be it the local ladies Rosary group, the Consolata Guild, a neighborhood ice cream social, or a holiday gathering of friends and family.
Vera was a teacher in the Rockford Public Schools and taught at Our Lady of Consolation, River Valley and Parkside Elementary schools where she retired in 1994.
Surviving are her husband of 53 years, Roger J. Vogler of Auburn Hills; daughter, Pamela Miller (David) of Birmingham, Mich.; sons, Kevin (Michelle) of Bloomfield Hills, Craig (Tammie) of Leesburg, Va., Christopher (Carole) of DeBary, Fla., Roger M. (Karen) of Winchester, Va., Jared (Crista) of Rockville, Md.; 18 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; sisters, Patricia Fate (Robert), Maxine Finnerty (Robert), and Geraldine Schafer (Richard); brother, Fred Streng (Patricia).
Interment was in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Southfield, Mich. As per her request, and consistent with the patriotism she imparted, her son and grandsons attended her funeral mass in full military dress. Memorial tributes may be made to: Consolata Missionary Sisters, 6801 Belmont NE, Belmont, MI 49306.
Print This Story
Obituaries — January 21, 2010
Stapleton
Mr. Dennis Stapleton, aged 59 (1950-2010), was taken too soon from us as he fought a long and hard battle with cancer. He went to be with his Lord and family on January 13, 2010.
Dennis was preceded in death by his mother, Patricia (Scrivener) Stapleton, and his father, Roscoe Stapleton. He is survived by his loving wife, Diana (Prindle) Stapleton; his daughters, Erika (Stapleton) Mallory and Nicholas Mallory, Nicole Stapleton, and Heather (Brandt) Sherman and Andrew Sherman; grandchildren, Paxton Mallory, Linnay Mallory, Austin Brandt, Dylan Sherman and Brandon Sherman.
Dennis owned and operated several businesses over the years, including currently The Crazy Horse Saloon, Stapleton Foods, Bugsy’s Restaurant, and the Frontier Inn. His favorite pastime was making people laugh! He had a new joke everyday for people, and nobody could stump him. Customers would start a joke, and he would finish with the punch line.
Dennis truly was a loving husband, father and friend to us all. He will be greatly missed along with all of his jokes!
The Stapleton family would like to thank everyone for all of their thoughts, prayers and prayer circles throughout the years. A special thanks to all of the doctors and nurses who have cared for Dennis and guided his family as they learned to accept that he would soon be at peace and finally home with his Lord. The service for Dennis was held on Sunday morning at 10:30 a.m. at the Pederson Funeral Home. Interment was in Fairplains Cemetery in Grand Rapids. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.
Print This Story
Obituaries — January 14, 2010
Cook
Mr. (Richard) Jack Cook age 83, of Rockford, born May 10, 1926, passed away peacefully Christmas Eve, Thursday, December 24, 2009, surrounded by his loving family, who take great comfort in knowing he celebrated Christmas with Jesus.
He proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy, WWII, 1943-1946, and was a member of the American Legion Post #102 in Rockford for 43 years. He retired from MichCon (DTE) in 1981 after 32 years, where he was their western district serviceman in the Rockford area, priding himself on the superb personal rapport he had built and enjoyed with area customers. “Cookie,” as he was referred to, was given the Blue Heart award for being one of the most well-liked, competent employees of the western district.
Family will affectionately remember Dad for always having a “pair and a spare.”
He was the beloved husband of Jacqueline J. Cook, whom he married in 1981, and is survived by his children, Richard L. Cook (Debra) of Cedar Springs, Jack (Carol Sue) Cook of Rockford, Leslie (Jim) Vaglica of Wyoming, Connie Hulst of Dorr, Todd (Valentina) of Kentwood; Jeanne (Mutlaq) Al-Ajmi of Kuwait, and Lisa (Rick) Rothwell of Rockford; his grandchildren, Ricky Cook, TJ (Thomas Jack) Cook, Tina (Joel) Ross, Brandon (Kristen) Cook, Emily (Chad) Tejchma, Joe (Desirae) Fairbrother, Sgt. Stacey (Antonio) Crowder stationed in Iraq, Steven Aguilar, R.A. Hulst, Salem, Noura, Sarah, Wadha and Muhammad Al-Ajmi, Jessica and Zachary Rothwell; eight great-grandchildren; aunt, Shirley King of Rockford; sister-in-law, Mary Bliss of Grand Rapids; and many cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, Clifford and Ruth (Lee) Cook, and a granddaughter, Vicky Cook.
Visitation was Tuesday, Dec. 29, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Rockford United Methodist Church, with a memorial service on Wednesday, Dec. 30 at 10:00 a.m. at the church with Reverend Dick Riley officiating. Military honors were under the auspices of the Kent County Veterans Honor Guard with inurnment in Cannon Township Cemetery. For those who wish, memorials may be made to the Rockford United Methodist Church or Faith Hospice.
Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.
Print This Story
Obituaries — January 7, 2010
Schwab
Mr. Jack J. Schwab, age 80, of Rockford passed away in the early morning hours of New Year’s Day, January 1, 2010.
He was a 1947 graduate of Rockford High School, where he played football and track and was co-captain of the football team during his senior year. Jack was a member of the National Honor Society and also worked at his father’s business, Schwab Oil Company. He received an academic scholarship, attended junior college, and then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. Jack was a pilot who flew a T-6 and had 46 combat missions, was a 6147th TAC Con called the “Mosquito Squadron,” leaving the service as a First Lieutenant. He finished college, graduating in 1957 from Michigan State University, and then worked with his father.
After his father’s heart attack, Jack and Jeanne purchased the business and operated it for 22 years. He and Jeanne remodeled the service station at Bridge and Main streets, giving quality service to the Rockford community.
Jack served on the board of directors of MI Petroleum and was executive secretary for West Michigan Oilmen’s Club.
Jack ‘s whole life was about giving back to the community. He served twice as president of the Rockford Chamber of Commerce, had several terms on the Rockford Board of Education and then served as president, was a Rockford City Council member, and then was chosen mayor, served four terms as Kent County Commissioner, was a member of the Merritt Lamb Post #102 American Legion, was a life member of the Rockford Lions Club, where he twice served as president, and was a member of the Golden “R” Club.
Jack was an “outdoors” man and enjoyed hunting and especially playing golf, having achieved four holes-in-one during his lifetime. He enjoyed playing Bridge with Jeanne, and played Setback on Wednesday at the Moose Lodge in Sparta.
Since 1942, Jack was a member of the Rockford United Methodist Church, where he served on many committees and on the board.
He is survived by his loving wife, Jeanne; children, Richard Schwab of Cedar Springs, Jayne and David Schemmel of Rockford; grandchildren, Marcie Schwab, Eric Schwab, Daniel Schemmel, Jacqueline “Jackie” Schemmel, and Jacob Schemmel; sister, Alma and Robert Mills; and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Letha (Blakeslee) Schwab; and his brother, L.J. “Red” Schwab.
The service for Mr. Jack Schwab was Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. at Rockford United Methodist Church with Pastor Dick Riley officiating. Military honors were under the auspices of the U.S. Air Force with interment in Rockford Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the building fund at Rockford United Methodist Church or the charity of one’s choice.
Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.
Gould
Mrs. Julia Maxine Gould, age 76, of Rockford passed away on Sunday, January 3, 2010. She grew up in Spencer Township at 21 Mile Road and Harvard Avenue, and attended Griswold and Trufant schools, and then Lakeview High School.
When she was picking potatoes at Ralph Pratt’s farm, she had her “eyes” on a young man named Ralph Gould who had his “eyes” on her. From the beginning, they fell in love (ask about the story of the culvert) and were married on December 16, 1950. After only three weeks of marriage, Ralph was drafted and sent to Japan and Korea. Julia wrote to Ralph nearly every day and cherished the letters he sent home to her.
Julia was a stay-at-home wife and mother and cared for her children and offered child care for others. When her children were older, she worked in food service at Rockford Public Schools. After her retirement from the school, her need was to care for babies and children again. She was an excellent cook, baker and “immaculate housekeeper.”
Julia and Ralph traveled with the Rockford Senior Citizens and also traveled in their “spotless” travel camper. She was very close to her sisters, and lived by this motto: “Love your kids and grandchildren like crazy, and spoil them.”
Julia is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, Ralph; children, Carol L. and Robert Mosher, Richard L. and Randi Gould, Cheryl M. and Eugene Jr. Kime, Phillip F. and Pamela Gould; grandchildren, Kimberly (Ryan) Chinn, Jennifer (Jon) Zerkle, Richard G. Gould, Christine Schmidt, Amy (Bill) Flynn, Brian (Ellen) Porter, John Porter, Jessica (Steve) Wellman, Samantha Gould; great-grandchildren, Ernest Lee III, Chelsey Lee, Troy Sanders, Lana Zerkle, Autumn Zerkle, Andres Gould, Brenton Evans, Elliot Flynn, Abigail Porter, Derek Porter, Brady Porter; many step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren; sisters, Velma G. Becker, Stella M. White, Ida Loraine Morris; brother and sister-in-law, James H. and June Roberts; brothers-in-law, Kenneth Becker, Leonard and Thelma Gould; many nieces and nephews; and very close and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Etta Roberts; sisters, Elizabeth E. Drake, Erma I. Becker; brothers-in-law, Maxwell Drake, Wayne White, Carl Becker, Lawrence Heft, and James Morris; grandchildren, Ronda and Kevin McIntyre. “Julia is now resting in peace with her mother, father and many family members who have gone before her. We give the glory of life and death to God our Creator.”
The Gould family would like to extend their special thanks to the staff at Fred & Lena Meijer Heart Health Center for the care and love given to Julia.
The service for Mrs. Gould will be Thursday at 11:00 a.m. at the Pederson Funeral Home with Pastor Bruce Wilson officiating. Interment will be in Elmwood Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the Fred & Lena Meijer Heart Health Center, 100 Michigan NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Relatives and friends may gather at the funeral home from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday.
Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.
Herrington
Mr. Donald G. Herrington, age 79, of Rockford passed away on Sunday, January 3, 2010. He was born in Belding to Claire and Jessie (King) Herrington.
As a young man, Don worked at many of the Cannon Township cemeteries. After he left school, Don worked at Wolverine World Wide.
While attending a football game, Don met Nedra. They dated, fell in love, and were married on April 28, 1950, at the Old Bostwick Lake Congregational Church.
For 40 years, Don worked for the Kent County Parks Commission, first as a laborer and then as a carpenter. He built shelters, outhouses, picnic tables, and worked on signage.
He, Nedra and the children loved camping. Don was an outdoorsman who liked to hunt and go camping. For many years he volunteered as the Scoutmaster for Troop #228 and Cub Scout Pack #3228.
Don is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Nedra; children, Mike and Mary Herrington of Rockford, Deb and Frank Sheldon of Cedar Springs, Scott and Sally Herrington of Rockford, Connie and Patrick Rose of Rockford, Mark and Ann Herrington of Ionia, Lynne and Richard Kahn of Mecosta; 16 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; brothers and sister, Gordon and Pat Herrington, Victor and Barbara Herrington, Mrs. Doris Jewell, Clair “Bill” Herrington, Harry and Sandy Herrington; nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his grandson, Todd Herrington, and his brother-in-law, Alger Wildey.
The service for Mr. Herrington will be 1:00 p.m. Thursday at the Pederson Funeral Home with Rev. Mark Peacock officiating. Interment will be in Blythefield Memory Gardens. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Lack’s Cancer Center at St. Mary’s, 250 Cherry St., Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Relatives and friends may gather at the funeral home from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday.
Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.
Wingard
Mr. Max Charles Wingard, age 85, of Rockford passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 5, 2010.
Max was a lifelong proud resident of Rockford and graduated from the “old” Rockford High School, was a member of the football and track teams, Golden “R” Club, Rockford Boosters Club, Rockford Lions Club, Rockford American Legion Merritt Lamb Post #102, a variety of other organizations, and enjoyed being with the Jody’s Restaurant morning coffee crew. He was an avid rooter of the Rockford Rams, Notre Dame, and officiated football for a number of years.
Max retired from the Rockford Post Office after 25 years and then worked for 20 years for the Pederson Funeral Home with his friend, David Pederson. Max was a Navy veteran of WWII but never learned to swim, so he said. While stationed in Minneapolis, Max met his wife, Betty. After the service, Max and Betty lived for a short time in Boston, Mass., with Betty’s family, but eventually returned to Rockford to raise their family. During the last few years of his life, Max suffered from dementia and moved to assisted living where he was supported by the wonderful staff at Northview Manor.
Max is survived by his children, Kathleen Vogel, Ken (Anna) Wingard, Allan (Suzann) Wingard; grandchildren, Alison, Wendy, Kimberly, Andrea, Amy, Sarah, Holly, Dirk, and Becky; a sister, Carol (Charles) Street; numerous great-grandchildren, nieces including Jackie (Nelson) DeWitt, nephews, and special friends, including Carol and Doug Luther. Max was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Betty, in 2001; his parents, Ray and Bertha; a sister and brother-in-law, Jean and Wayne Lavendar; and son-in-law, Frank Vogel.
Those wishing to express their sympathy are asked to consider the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, Our Lady of Consolation Church in Rockford, or the charity of your choice. Max’s wishes were to have a family-only private gathering followed by a gravesite service. Max will be greatly missed by his family.
Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.
Print This Story
Visitors
-
Marketplace
