Mr. James “Rags” Ragsdale, age 66, of Rockford passed away unexpectedly on Friday, August 20, 2010. He grew up on the west side of Grand Rapids and delivered the newspapers from a very early age (often getting up at 4 a.m.). In 1962, he graduated from Union High School, where he played baseball.

Jim enlisted in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War, specialized in decoding, and left the service with a rank of Sergeant. After the service, Jim attended Grand Rapids Junior College, earning his associate’s degree in business. For many years he worked for Michigan National Bank and ATL Credit Union on 36th Street.

Jim played fast-pitch softball and was the team manager, sponsored by Putt-Putts and The Thunder Chicken. He was a wonderful father who was involved in his sons’ sports, helped with coaching in community games, provided transportation, helped many young men set and achieve lifetime goals, and also taught sportsmanship. His home was always open to everyone; pick-up games were often played on most Sundays. Jim was also an avid golfer.

Jim is survived by his son, Will and Melanie Ragsdale of Rockford; grandchildren, Sophia Ragsdale, Sam Kleynenberg, Eli Kleynenberg; mother, Mrs. Edith Ragsdale; sister, Liz Stoner; nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Cecil, and his son, Curtis Kleynenberg.

The service for Jim was Monday at 11:00 a.m. at the Pederson Funeral Home with Pastor Bruce Wilson officiating. Military honors were under the auspices of the U.S. Air Force with interment in Blythefield Memory Gardens.

Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.

Willett

Mr. Roger “Buck” Willett, age 79, passed away on Wednesday, August 18, 2010. He grew up on the family farm at Blakely and M-44 (Belding Road) where he and his brother would herd the cows. In 1950 Roger graduated from Rockford High School. He played guard, played JV basketball, and participated in the FFA.  His parents moved to Cedar Springs when his father became their Chief of Police. Roger drove so he could still attend Rockford High School with this ‘37 Ford and later a ‘39 black Ford. He and Darlene were high school sweethearts who started dating in the tenth grade. After high school, Roger worked for a while and then joined the US Army. They both wrote love letters to one another and became engaged. When Roger came home on furlough, Darlene and he were married at her parents’ home and had a small immediate family reception at Finger’s Restaurant. Together they picked flowers for their wedding from the family garden. Roger and Darlene went to Colorado, and then he was shipped out. After the military, Roger worked for Coit Gravel Company and also worked part time laying concrete. Later, he started his own business, Willett Concrete Company with his sons working with him. Roger was a wonderful husband and father. He was a likeable, quick-witted, soft-hearted guy who started his day with breakfast at Fables. In later years, Roger had daily coffee which he always made at The Trading Post, and with the gang he discussed community issues.  His family was very important to him. He loved attending the sporting events for his children and grandchildren. When needed, he was there to coach baseball. In his leisure time he enjoyed hunting and trips to the casinos. Roger was a member of Bostwick Lake Congregational Church and the Merritt Lamb Post #102 American Legion.

He is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Darlene; children, Brenda and Rick Greenland, Kim and Lynn Jensen, Mike and Laurie Willett, Casey and Kerri Willett; nine grandchildren, Matthew (Heidi) Greenland, Luke (Lisa) Greenland, LJ (Rachael) Jensen, Tressie (Dennis who is now with the military in Afghanistan) Jensen-Moody, Rachael Willett, Brent Willett, Blake Willett, Cassie Cosier, Seth Cosier; four great-grandchildren with the anticipated arrival of the first great-granddaughter, Dylan Greenland, Cody Greenland, Caiden Jensen, Callie Jensen; in-laws, Marian Russ, Neil and Louise DeYoung, Mrs. Myrna DeYoung, Mrs. Gladys DeYoung; nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Gerritt (Mary) Willett, Wally (Barbara) Willett, and his granddaughter, Michelle Greenland.

The service for Mr. Willett was on Monday at 11:00 a.m. at Bostwick Lake Congregational Church with Pastor Jason Hubbard officiating. Military honors were under the auspices of the Kent County Veterans Honor Guard with interment in Rockford Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Bostwick Lake Congregational Church, 7979 Belding Road, Rockford, MI 49341 or Hospice of MI, 989 Spaulding Ave., SE, Ada, MI 49301. Relatives and friends met with the family at the Pederson Funeral Home on Sunday from 3 to 5 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m.

Arrangements were made by The Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.

Mrs. Nadine Hayes, age 86, formerly of Rockford, passed away Wednesday, May 19, 2010. She worked for the Rockford Register newspaper and really loved her job; she also worked in the tannery office of Wolverine World Wide, retiring in 1985.

Nadine was a member of the Rockford Historical Society, the American Legion Merritt Lamb Unit #102 Ladies Auxiliary, and ABWA. Throughout her life she was always a hard worker.

Nadine was an avid reader of all types of books and loved to work crossword puzzles. The greatest joy and pride of her life was in raising her children and being a grandmother. Nadine was a lovely lady who always cared about the welfare of others.

She is survived by her family, Marsha and Gary Watkins of Grand Rapids, Randy and Mary Hayes of Roseville, Minn., Connie Hayes and William Hayes, both of Rockford; grandchildren, Gabriel Dale Hayes, Meredith (Kurt) Hayes, Kimberly Sommer and Derek Wheeler, Tory Sommer, Arron Hayes, Sara Hayes, and Ashar Hayes; her sister, Mrs. Maxine Alber of Grand Rapids. Her husband, Dale Hayes, who was the love of her life, preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her son, Gary; her brothers and wives, Ron and Ollie Smith, Terry and Maxine Smith; and brother-in-law, Bernie Alber.

The memorial service for Mrs. Hayes was Saturday, May 22, 2010, at the funeral home with Pastor Richard Riley officiating. Interment was in Rockford Cemetery. Those desiring an expression of sympathy may consider Spectrum Health Rehab and Nursing Center, 750 Fuller NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.

Mr. Wilfred “Bill” Paull, age 100, of Rockford went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, June 2, 2010. He was a 1925 graduate of Rockford High School. His working years were spent with Wolverine World Wide in various capacities from warehousing and manufacturing to supervision and as interplant coordinator for the company’s (scientific) Leather Measurement Program.

Bill retired after 42 years of service. He was a very faithful servant of God and holds the longest membership (since 1924) at First Congregational Church of Rockford, UCC. Choral music was his passion. Bill sang with the Rockford Congregational Church choir 30 years, and directed various area choirs including being choir director at Cedar Springs United Methodist Church 20 years. When directing the choir or singing, you could see by his expression the wonderful contentment that music brought to him. Bill was a member of the Northview Seniors and sang with the Northview Silvertones for 15 years and also sang with the Rockford Community Choir. During leisure time, he enjoyed photography.

The Paull family would like to thank Bishop Hills Elder Care Community, Bill’s home for the last five years, for their wonderful care and devotion.

Bill is survived by his children, Douglas Paull, and Lee and Faith Paull; his grandchildren, Stephen Paull, Renee and Aaron Harvey, Heather and Tom Emperor; nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Coyla (Zimmerman) Paull on December 10, 1983; and brothers and sister, Gordon, Mildred, Mary, Wayne, Alvin, Donald, and Ruth.

The celebration of Mr. Paull’s life was Saturday at 2:00 p.m. at First Congregational Church of Rockford, UCC with Rev. Laurel Ten Have-Chapman officiating. Interment was in Rockford Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the building fund at First Congregational Church of Rockford, UCC.

Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.

Alcumbrack

Mrs. Elizabeth Alcumbrack, age 91, of Rockford passed away on Wednesday, June 2, 2010.

Elizabeth was raised on the family farm during the Great Depression. Her father was a farmer while her mom was a homemaker. In 1937 she graduated from Rockford High School. For a short time, she worked for Wolverine World Wide and then met the love of her life at a dance at Silver Lake Grange Hall.

After a loving courtship, “big and tall” Morey and “little” Elizabeth were wed. Her life became that of a wife and homemaker. If Morey was not working, you would find them together at social events.

Elizabeth was a member of Bostwick Lake Congregational Church, UCC, where she was very active. She particularly enjoyed her home on Silver Lake. She loved entertaining, playing cards, and having parties with her family. Elizabeth will always be remembered for her positive attitude about life, her sense of humor, and her laughter.

She is survived by her daughters, Muriel and Larry Crow of Comstock Park, Judy and Dan Brechting of Rockford; grandchildren, Mary and Joe Willacker, JoAnn and Mike Riley, Sandy and Ed Morris, Beth and Jim Perry, Denice and Scott Hubbard, Colleen and Mark Mandreky, Matthew and Laurie Brechting, Phil Brechting; 18 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Virginia Alcumbrack; brother-in-law, Lester Alcumbrack; sister-in-law, Mrs. Kenneth (Mary Ann) Baldwin; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Maurice “Morey” Alcumbrack on November 29, 1993; and brothers, Howard Baldwin and Kenneth Baldwin.

The service for Mrs. Alcumbrack was Monday at 11:00 a.m. at Bostwick Lake Congregational Church, UCC, with Pastor Richard Alcumbrack officiating. Interment was in Bostwick Lake Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Bostwick Lake Congregational Church, UCC.

Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.

Mr. Raymond J. Kunst, age 88, of Rockford went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, May 9, 2010. He was a 1940 graduate of Creston High School.

Staff Sergeant Raymond Kunst served his country, his flag, and his God in the U.S. Army during WWII. He took part in the Rhineland and Ardennes Campaigns and was wounded on December 20, 1944, in Bastogne, Belgium.

On February 1, 1952, Ray and his wife, Thelma, started Rockford Flower Shop. Ray was a fourth-generation florist and gifted designer. While operating the floral shop, they also had a garden center (formerly beside the Rockford Michigan State Police Post). They were a faithful, gentle and caring couple, who worked as a team in providing the community with quality flowers and caring service. In July 1975, Ray and Thelma sold their business.

Ray was a gentleman who always needed to be busy. He began working for Rockford Hardware, and for many years he assisted people with their plants and lawn care products. Ray was a great family man who had impeccable morals and ethics. His Christian values were sustained throughout his life and have been passed on to his children and grandchildren.

Ray was a charter member of Rockford Reformed Church and took great pride in seeing the church expand and grow. He was a life member of the William Smith Post #2 Disabled American Veterans.

He is survived by his loving wife, the former Thelma Weller, whom he married on July 17, 1942; his children, Janice and Harold Hulst of Sparta, Ronald J. and Mary Ellen Kunst of Elmira, N.Y., Steve and Cheryl Kunst of Tallahassee, Fla.; grandchildren, Susan and Bryan Albers, Pamela Phillips, Jeffrey and Candace Hulst, Rebecca and David Ziebarth, Renee and Jeremy Guzzardi, Ronda and Mike Neri, Christofer Kunst, Sheena and Joe Perkins; 13 great-grandchildren; in-laws, Mrs. Lorraine Kunst, Eldona and George Allington, Spud Ensing, Barney and Marcy Townes; many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Peter L. and Nellie Kunst; brothers, Lawrence and Wilford; and daughter-in-law, Mrs. Ruth Kunst.

The service celebrating Ray’s faith life and physical life was Friday, May 14, 2010, at 11:00 a.m. at Rockford Reformed Church with Pastor Rick Tigchon officiating. Military honors were under the auspices of the Kent County Veterans Honor Guard, with interment in Rockford Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Rockford Reformed Church, 4890 11 Mile Rd. NE, Rockford.

Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.

Carl W. Adams, 75, of Nokomis, Fla., formerly of Rockford, died May 5, 2010. A private service will be held.

Survivors include three children, Natalie of Port Charlotte, Fla., Steve of Arcadia, Fla., and Pamela of North Port, Fla.; two sisters, Sue and Judy of Venice, Fla.; and a brother, Dale of Sarasota, Fla.; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

He was a veteran of the U.S. Army Airtroops. Mr. Adams was a dry wall texturing contractor for over 40 years in the Venice, Fla. area.

Memorial donations may be made to TideWell Hospice Inc. in Venice, Fla.

Stephen May, a 17-year-old Rockford High School (RHS) senior and Belmont resident, died unexpectedly and went to be with his Lord on April 28, 2010.

He went to Assumption Catholic Elementary School and was an active member of the parish. In the seventh grade, he began attending Rockford Public Schools. Despite his 5’10” lean frame, he could out-eat any of the players on the football or basketball team. He is described by his many friends as one of the most outgoing, funniest, young men they have ever met.

He loved playing sports and was on the varsity football, basketball and track teams. He enjoyed working with young children, including coaching, mentoring, serving as a positive role model, and teaching children’s liturgy every Sunday at Assumption parish. His favorite hobby was fishing, and he entered numerous contests (recently staying up all night trying to win a trolling motor).

Stephen was an excellent student and planned to attend Michigan State University in the fall to study business. His brother, Brett, describes Stephen as a person who always put others ahead of himself. He made his grocery list according to what his friends ate. Many RHS seniors viewed the May home as their second home where they were always welcomed.

Stephen was an upbeat person who enjoyed a great practical joke; his teammates say he embarrassed them, but they enjoyed it. At an initial football retreat with dads and sons, Stephen stood in front of all and said how much he loved his family; he always put them first. With a quirky grin, like a Cheshire cat, Stephen lit up the room.

The RHS school community mourns the loss. In the words of Stephen’s father, “Celebrate life. It is something to be valued and cherished.”

Stephen was always kind, loving, humorous and thankful, and will be lovingly missed by his parents, Jamie and Gerilyn (nee Janicki) May; brother, Brett; grandparents, Steve “Dziadji” and Helen “Bushi” Janicki of Belmont, Mrs. Marilyn May of Sutton Bay; aunts and uncles, Karen and Art Swartz, Pat and Dick Wiebe, Barbara and Mark Jackson, Mary “Joje” and Bob Wismer, Julie and Jeff Forbes, Stephanie and Stuart Cohen, Greg May and Linda Marie Stevens, Mike and Cheri May; many cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Joseph May.

The mass of Christian burial for Stephen was offered on Monday at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Consolation Church in Rockford with Rev. Peter Vu presiding. Interment was in Assumption BVM Cemetery. The Rosary was prayed on Sunday evening at 7:00 p.m. at Assumption BVM Catholic Church in Belmont. To celebrate Stephen’s memory and continue his love of giving, contributions may be made to the Rockford Education Foundation in care of Rockford Public Schools, or the VanAndel Research Institute designated for Parkinson’s Disease.

Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.

Buth

Mr. Richard Daniel Buth, age 89, of Grand Rapids passed away on Sunday, May 2, 2010. He was born in Belmont on December 6, 1920, to Frederika and Daniel Buth.

He is survived by his daughters, Diane (Dale) Hoekstra of Hastings, Linda (Richard) Babcock of Carmel, Ind., Danielle Buth of Ada and her special friend Art Holden, and Janet (Greg) Ashe of Solon, Ohio; grandchildren, Stephanie Hoekstra, Janelle Hoekstra (James McMullin), Allison (Tom) Satinover, Jennifer (Jeremiah) Schouppe, Katie Rose Pichette, Cheyenne Ashe; one great-grandchild, Iliana Lindsay Schouppe; and several nieces and nephews. Dick was preceded in death by his wife, Martha L. (Ericksen) Buth; his granddaughter, Lindsay Pichette; brother, Gerrit Buth; sisters, Frances Lamoreaux and Genevieve Minion.

Dick graduated from Comstock Park High School, where he participated on many sports teams. He also graduated from Michigan State University, where he was a member of the Theta Chi fraternity. He joined the Navy after college during WWII and was stationed in Florida, Texas and California. He returned to Michigan after the war and taught several years in the Comstock Park district, also coaching, including state champion golf teams. In 1995 he was inducted into the Comstock Park High School Athletic Hall of Fame. While he was teaching, he also owned and operated a dairy farm. After teaching, he served as a state legislator and then served several years as a Kent County commissioner, including chairman, and served on the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Board. While his daughters were in school, he served on the Rockford District School Board.

Dick was a longtime member of Green Ridge/Egypt Valley Country Club and was past president of the club. He was a member of the First Congregational Church of Rockford, UCC, and served as church moderator for a time. Dick was an avid golfer and enjoyed all Michigan State sports, holding season tickets to football games for over 50 years.

The service for Mr. Buth will be on Saturday afternoon at 1:00 at First Congregational Church of Rockford, UCC, corner of Bridge and Fremont streets, with Rev. Laurel TenHave-Chapman officiating. Interment will be in Plainfield Township Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Egypt Valley Scholarship Foundation in care of Egypt Valley Country Club, 7333 Knapp NE, Ada, MI 49301, or First Congregational Church of Rockford, UCC, Building Fund, 192 E. Bridge St., Rockford, MI 49341. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the Pederson Funeral Home in Rockford, on Friday, May 7, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.

Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.

Smith

Mr. Ralph R. Smith, age 91, of Rockford passed away early Tuesday morning, April 27, 2010. He was born in Princeton, Kentucky.

When the call of his country was heard during WWII, First Sgt. Ralph R. Smith marched away as a brave young man with an abiding faith in God, his country and his flag to proudly serve in the 605th Tank Destroyer Battalion. After the service, he worked for more than 30 years for the City of Detroit as a supervisor in the Public Works Department.

Mr. Smith was a longtime member of Our Lady of Consolation Church, and not only would you find him attending daily masses, but until illness came he would never ever miss a Sunday or Holy Day mass. Mr. Smith was also a member of the Bishop Richter Council #7761 as a third degree Knight, supported the many activities of that council and was an honorary life member. He was an avid sports fan, a trait that has passed on to his children.

Mr. Smith was an loving father and provider and is survived by his children, Ralph “Rick” and Janet Smith Jr. of Detroit, Wanda “Wendy” A. Smith of Kentwood; grandchildren, Ralph “Rickey” and Katie Smith and their daughter Lilly, Kevin Smith, Jeffrey and Linda Smith, all of Detroit; in-laws, Wanda Rekucki and Stanley Rekucki, both of Grand Rapids. Mr. Smith was preceded in death by his wife, Sonia Rekucki Smith, on August 31, 1990, and his brothers Harold, John, Ovid, Denny and Clyde and sister Eula.

The mass of Christian burial for Mr. Smith was Saturday at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Consolation Church with the Rev. Tony Russo presiding. Military honors were under the auspices of the U.S. Army with interment in Holy Cross Cemetery. The Rosary was prayed on Friday at 8:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Our Lady of Consolation Church.

Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.

Mrs. Sarah E. Tillman, age 83, of Rockford passed away on Monday, April 19, 2010. She worked as an administrator for Wolverine World Wide. Since 1975, Mrs. Tillman was a member of Rockford United Methodist Church.

She will be remembered as a bubbly, outgoing person whose presence filled the room.

Mrs. Tillman is survived by her devoted husband of nearly 63 years, Keith; children, Roger and Nancy Tillman, Barbara and Mark LaBelle, Richard and Maureen Tillman, Mary and Jack Best, Carol and Daniel Schultz; grandchildren, Jason and Elizabeth Tillman, Adam Tillman, Brett Tillman, Christopher and Lydia LaBelle, Lauren and Ronnie Tolliver, Kevin Tillman, Steven Tillman, Audrey Best, Alexander Schultz; great-granddaughter, Madelyn, and the much anticipated arrival of one more; nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her two brothers, Eugene and Rod.

The service for Mrs. Tillman will be Friday at 11:00 a.m. at Rockford United Methodist Church with Pastor Richard Riley officiating. Interment will be in Rockford Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Rockford United Methodist Church. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the Pederson Funeral Home on Thursday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m.

Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.

Egbert 

Mrs. Janet Egbert, age 52, of Rockford passed away very unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 20, 2010.

While Jan was growing up, she attended Centreville High School where she was valedictorian of her class, participated in the band, and was a member of the track team. She received a scholarship for academics and still holds a top track record at Central Michigan University.

Jan was playing in a powder puff football game. Her brother and his roommate Dan watched as she plowed over an opponent. Dan decided that this was the girl for him. After a loving courtship, they married, and Dan transferred to Central Michigan University, and then the children arrived. They would hustle the babies between their commitments in track, student teaching, and working at 7-11 Store and Jo Ann Fabrics.

Jan’s first teaching position was in Dodgeville, Wis. In order to be closer to their families, Jan and Dan moved back to Michigan. After attending an in-service at Rockford Public Schools, Jan was very impressed. She told Dan that they had to get their children into Rockford schools. She and Dan physically built their home in Rockford, and then Jan began teaching at Rockford High School in 1988, first as a PE teacher and then as a health teacher. She was a very accomplished, well-organized and personal teacher who enjoyed creating a unique learning environment for her students. As a teacher, she would be the first to volunteer and help wherever she was needed.

Jan was physically fit and enjoyed running, biking, hiking, and being outdoors. She was loving, determined, a great communicator, and strong-willed. Family was very important to her, and she felt that her family was her greatest achievement. She was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother and teacher.

Jan is survived by her husband, Dan; children, Cari and Kanyon Robertson of Plainwell, David Egbert and his fiancée Faatima of Brampton, Ontario, Canada, Nathan and Sarah Egbert of Kentwood, Tim Egbert of Nashville, Tenn.; grandchildren, Kaylen Robertson, Josie Egbert, and the much anticipated arrival of another; mother, Mrs. Grace Kurzawski of Sturgis, Mich.; brother, Alfred and Pam Kurzawski Jr. of Cadillac; father-in-law, Lyn Egbert of Elsie, brother-in-law, Jim Egbert of Elsie; great-grandmother-in-law, Mrs. Gladys Vincent of Elsie. She was preceded in death by her father, Alfred Kurzawski Sr., and mother-in-law, Kay Egbert.

The mass of Christian burial for Mrs. Egbert will be offered on Friday at 6:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Consolation Catholic Church with Rev. Tony Russo presiding. Interment will be in Courtland Township Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Komen Grand Rapids Race for the Cure, 118 Commerce SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the Pederson Funeral Home on Thursday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m.

Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.

Mrs. Maxine R. Smith, age 82, of Rockford passed away on Wednesday, March 24, 2010.

Before graduating from Rockford High School in 1945, she took extra classes in business and college prep. She played on the girls basketball team, was interested in art and was pleased to be commissioned to paint a mural at the old high school on Main Street. She and Terry met while in high school and Maxine was his prom date.

Maxine was an avid reader (mostly romantic novels and biographies), bowled, played golf, worked crossword puzzles, and loved to oil paint. Many of her friends and family have received her paintings and cherish them. After Terry’s death, Maxine participated in the Rogue River Choral, the Silvertones of Northview Seniors, and Chancel Choir at Rockford United Methodist Church. She especially enjoyed the times that she and Diane traveled together. Maxine volunteered at the North Kent Service Center and was a member of the Merritt Lamb Unit #102 Ladies Auxiliary, the Rockford Historical Society, and the Golden “R” Club.

She is survived by her children, Patrick and Nancy Smith of Wyoming, Mich., Diane and Fred Burns of Traverse City; grandchildren, Christopher and Erin Rae Smith, Matthew and Kerri Smith, Adam and Angela Smith, Lauren and David Driscoll, Jessica Kruer and Mike Buth; great-grandchildren, Hailey Smith, Riley Smith, and twins, Declan and Danica Smith; sisters-in-law, Mrs. Nadine Hayes and Mrs. Maxine Alber; nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Terry on May 12, 1999; her sister, Joan Buyze; and her parents, Kenneth and Lila Weller.

The Smith family extends their heartfelt thank-you to the staff at Hospice of Michigan and Covenant Village of Great Lakes for their special care of Maxine.

The service for Maxine was Saturday at 10:30 a.m. at Rockford United Methodist Church with Rev. Richard Riley officiating. Interment was in Rockford Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the building fund at Rockford United Methodist Church or North Kent Service Center.

Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.

McIntyre

Mrs. Doris Maxine McIntyre, age 87, of Cedar Springs passed away on Thursday, March 25, 2010. She was born March 16, 1923, on a farm in Courtland Township to Chester and Anna Dunn.

When Doris graduated from Rockford High School in 1941, her class was the first to graduate from the new high school on Main Street (after the old one burned). While working at Wolverine World Wide, Doris saved her money to attend Laparent Cosmetology School. For many years, she operated her own shop in Rockford. After meeting Donald at a VFW dance, they fell in love, and were married on July 24, 1948, at Oakfield Methodist Church with Don and Rosemary Goodell as their attendants. Doris moved her shop to White Creek Avenue after marriage, and operated it for over 50 years. She and Don owned several businesses in addition to farming. Doris was a wonderful, loving and supportive wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

Doris is survived by her husband Donald of nearly 62 years; children, Marie and Douglas Holem of St. Charles, Gary and Connie McIntyre of Cedar Springs, Paul McIntyre of Brighton, Colo., Duane and Deb McIntyre of Sand Lake, Daniel and Chris McIntyre of Rockford; grandchildren, Jenni and Kal Attie, Ryan and Missy Holem, Denise Bey and fiancée Brent Bean, Andy and Jeni McIntyre, Megan McIntyre, Logan McIntyre, Mallory McIntyre, Sarah and Will Sparks, Emily Balcer, Nick McIntyre, and Anna McIntyre; great-grandchildren, Dustin Bey, RaeLyne Rankin, Alyssa McIntyre, Aidan McIntyre, Ashton Attie, and the much anticipated arrival of another; sister, Mrs. Rosemary Goodell; sisters-in-law, Mrs. Lucy Dunn, Mrs. Margie Dunn, Mrs. Dorothy Dunn; aunt, Mrs. Mary Carpenter; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Roger, Hollis, Russell and Vernon; and her sister, Elizabeth Kerr.

The family wishes to thank Rosemary, Beth and Sue from Hospice for their care.

The service for Mrs. McIntyre was Monday at 11:00 a.m. at the Pederson Funeral Home with Pastor Eldon Sanders officiating. Interment was in Solon Township Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Hospice of Michigan.

Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.

Mrs. Shirley Penrod, age 75, of Rockford passed away at her home. She was raised in Chicago, Ill., and was a 1952 graduate of Amundson High School.

Shirley was a bank teller for Alden State Bank, and then moved to Fairbanks, Alaska, where she worked in bank management. She especially enjoyed the holidays and having her family around. Shirley was an avid fan of the Tigers and the Cubs, enjoyed trips to the casinos, and loved to travel. For many years she was a cashier at D&W in Rockford. All her life she had a special love for animals, especially dogs.

She is survived by her children, James and Mary Penrod Jr. of Belmont, Gayle Penrod of Fla., Susan and Bobby Henry of Calif.; and grandchildren, David J. Crambell and Tyler J. Penrod.

The service for Mrs. Penrod was Saturday at 3:00 p.m. at Pederson Funeral Home with Pastor Richard Riley officiating. Interment will be at a later date. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the Belmont Boy Scout Troop #283.

Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.

Paepke

Mrs. Vera L. Paepke, age 96, of Rockford passed away on Sunday, March 21, 2010. In 1931 she graduated from Creston High School and worked at Kresgees, Wurzburgs and Herpolsheimers in sales and payroll.

Later, Vera was a stay-at-home mom and very involved with the nursery school at First Congregational Church, where she used her ’38 Chevrolet to drive the children. She was a dedicated volunteer driver for R.S.V.P., and the Rockford Community Services, driving people for over 35 years. Many will remember her smiling face and willingness to help, along with her delightful array of chauffeur hats. She also started the “coffee klatch” for sociability and set up a babysitting service.

Vera was a Charter Member of Northland Congregation Church, a recipient of the Great Lakes Center for Sages (GLCS) Croning honor, and received many awards for her service to the community.

She was preceded in death by her husband Arnold Paepke on September 12, 2007. Vera is survived by her daughters, Gail (Paul) DesNoyers of Big Rapids, Joan Paepke of Big Rapids; grandchildren, Todd DesNoyers, Brad (Jessica) DesNoyers, Ross DesNoyers; sister, Mrs. Mildred Fetters; sister-in-law, Mrs. Jerry Klepser; nieces and nephews.

The service for Mrs. Paepke will be Thursday at 11 a.m. at Pederson Funeral Home with Pastor Jon Fleming of the United Church of Big Rapids officiating. Interment will be in Blythefield Memory Gardens. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the North Kent Service Center, 10075 Northland Drive, Rockford, MI 49341. Relatives and friends may meet with the family at the funeral home on Wednesday from 6 to 8 p.m. and prior to the service on Thursday.

Arrangements were made by Pederson Funeral Home, Rockford.

Mr. Andrew James Sagorski, age 40, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, March 11, 2010 and is now rejoicing with his Lord and Savior.

He grew up in Sand Lake, graduated from Tri-County High School in 1988, and received his degree in Political Science from Central Michigan University. Andrew married Melissa (Astras) on June 22, 2001.

He currently worked in sales for Cofessco Fire Protection and previously Siemens, but cooking and farming were his passions. Andrew was an early riser, a hard worker, an innate chef, a lover of history, but most of all he was a faithful husband, and devoted father, and an honorable man. He was a member of Blythefield Hills Church.

Andrew is survived by his wife, Melissa (Astras); his children, Jordan David, Elaina Angel, Elizabeth Mary, Lara Eleaze, Jack Andrew; his father, Jim and his wife, Nancy (Ciluffo) along with her children; sisters, Mary Rose Baxter and Jeanine (Dan) Krebs; his in-laws, Tony and Rita Astras and Melissa’s five siblings, Ingrid (Tim) Ingram, Katrina (Josiah) Meyers, Elizabeth (Jeff) Geshel, Mark Astras, and Philip Astras; and a large extended family. He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Elizabeth Sagorski (Napierlaski); his infant brother, David and his infant sister, Angela.

A celebration of Andrew’s life was held Monday at Blythefield Hills Baptist Church with Pastor Matt Zainea officiating. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the Educational Fund for Andrew Sagorski’s Children at Lake Michigan Credit Union.