Rodney J. Charlton

Rodney Joseph Charlton passed away on October 21, 2026.

Rodney was born on March 26, 1943, in Uhrichsville, Ohio, the son of Joseph and Ruth Charlton. He graduated from Claymont High School before pursuing a degree in Industrial Arts at The Ohio State University. It was during his college years that Rodney began his journey with the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC), setting him on a path of service to his country.

In 1966, Rodney joined the United States Army, where he became a pilot in the Army’s intelligence division. He proudly flew the OV-1 Mohawk and served his country until 1969. His military service was an important chapter in his life and reflected his dedication, discipline, and commitment to others.

Ohio State was also where Rodney met the love of his life, Sara Woodward, on a blind date. The two were married on June 11, 1966, beginning a life together filled with family, adventure, and shared experiences.

Following his military service, Rodney returned to his hometown area and began teaching Industrial Arts at Claymont High School. Teaching and educating others came naturally to him, and his passion for helping people learn remained a defining part of his life.

Rodney later began a long career in the Caterpillar equipment industry, working initially for Ohio Machinery. Seeking new opportunities for his family, he moved to Billings, Montana, to work for T&E. His career then took him to Kansas, where he worked for Foley Equipment, before eventually bringing his family to Michigan to work for Michigan Caterpillar. Rodney ultimately retired in customer equipment and safety training, where he helped establish a foundation for Caterpillar equipment operators. Throughout his career, he carried the heart of an educator, sharing his knowledge and helping others develop the skills to work safely and confidently.

In retirement, Rodney continued to enjoy learning and exploring his interests. He especially enjoyed reading about history, with a particular interest in the Civil War. He also loved woodworking, camping, traveling and scuba diving throughout his lifetime of adventures. His commitment to guiding others extended beyond his professional life, as he also served as a Boy Scout leader, helping young people learn and grow.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea, with visitation beginning at 12:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Boy Scouts of America or a local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) hall.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Gordon G. Knight

Gordon G. Knight, age 97, of Dexter Twp., MI, passed away on Monday, October 5, 2026 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital.

Gordon was born January 1, 1929 in Detroit, MI, the son of Charles and Eveline Knight. He is survived by his three children, Kathryn (John) Briceland of Clarkston, MI, Amy (Chris) Roloff-Marek of Oregon, and Roger (Sarah) Knight of Colorado; eleven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren who admired him deeply; and his sister, Joan Finch of Florida. He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia A. Knight, and daughter, Cynthia R. Norwood.

Gordon also lived in Moran Township in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, where he enjoyed the nature surrounding the cabin he and his wife built on Lake Michigan and the fellowship at St. Ignace United Methodist Church. Gordon was a faithful man who was a member and lay leader at North Lake United Methodist Church, and he enjoyed the fellowship and friends there.

Gordon served in the Korean War, retired after 30 years as Civil/Structural Engineer with Ford Motor Company, was a member of Pinckney American Legon Post 419, and the Ottawa Long Rifle group, where he and his wife, Pat, enjoyed participating in historical re-enactments and attending national rendezvous.

Gordon was beyond generous with his time, money, and care. He was known for his witty sense of humor as well as his ability to create, build, and survive. He approached life with curiosity, ingenuity, and spirit. Gordon touched countless lives and left so many better for having known him and will carry his memory, influence, and his legacy with them always.

A Memorial Service will be held at North Lake United Methodist Church, Chelsea, on Tuesday, January 5, 2027, at 12:00 p.m. , where the family will receive friends at the church from 11:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Dolores M. Drew

Dolores Mae (DeRossett) Drew, age 83, of Munith, Michigan, passed away on October 15, 2026, at her home surrounded by family.

Dolores was born on March 21, 1943, in Sloan, Kentucky, the daughter of Taylor DeRossett and Dixie Whitaker. When she was 12 years old, her family moved to the Grass Lake area before settling in Munith the following year, making their home on Main Street. It was during high school that Dolores met Joseph Drew, the love of her life. The two were married in 1961 at Munith United Methodist Church and went on to build a life and family together.

Dolores was a devoted homemaker who was well known for her cooking and baking. She and Joseph made quite the team when it came to their cake business. Dolores was the baker, while Joseph was the artist, adding the special touches that made each cake unique. Together, they brought joy to many through their creativity and the love they put into everything they made.

Her faith was an important part of her life, and Dolores was actively involved with the Munith Church of the Nazarene, serving in many roles. Later she participated on both the prayer and usher teams at the JaxNaz Church in Jackson. She also generously volunteered her time at her children’s school and loved babysitting, always finding joy in caring for others.

Dolores treasured the friendships she shared with her group of ladies, Marla Scott, Sue Marshall, and Ann Young. Together, they enjoyed visiting places such as Frankenmuth and Shipshewana and making memories along the way. She also shared a special bond with her best friend, Rena Wright, whose friendship meant so much to her.

Above all, Dolores was a loving mother and grandmother who cherished her family. Her devotion to her children and grandchildren was at the heart of her life, and she will be remembered for the love and care she shared with those closest to her.

Dolores is survived by her four children: Frank (Sherry) Drew of Dansville, Dan (Kim) Drew of Mason, Doug (Suzanne) Drew of Munith, and Gregg (Susan) Drew of Munith; her grandchildren: Andre, Selena, Sarah, Peter, Kayla, Samantha, Benjamin, Rebecca, and Jennifer; and a great-grandson expected to arrive soon. She is also survived by her siblings Jerry DeRossett of South Carolina and Rodney (Brenda) DeRossett of Indiana.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph Drew; her daughter, Malinda Drew; her son, Benjamin Drew; her sister, Lorraine Peters; her brother-in-law, Zeke Peters; and her sister-in-law, Sarah DeRossett.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, October 31st, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Jeruel Baptist Church, 11400 Plum Orchard Rd, Munith, Michigan. Following the service, an informal Celebration of Life gathering and meal will take place in the fellowship hall from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Friends and family are welcome to attend the service, stop by for the reception, or both.

The family would like to offer heartfelt gratitude to Gentiva Hospice (Sophia RN, Matt RN, Chase RN, and Mysti).

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family for Trail Life Troop MI-0317 or Gentiva Hospice.

Sandra A. McAllister

Sandra Ann McAllister, age 82, of Munith, MI, passed away on October 14, 2026 at home. She was born on April 20, 1944, in Ann Arbor, MI, the daughter of Harold and Thelma McAllister.

Sandra graduated from Pioneer High School and worked as an assembler for General Motors for many years. She moved from Gaylord to the Munith area ten years ago to be closer to family. Sandra enjoyed watching football and spending time with her family, watching them play various sports and activities. She especially liked playing games of all kinds, including cards, dice, and board games.

Sandra is survived by two children, Gregory (Mary) Royal of Florida and Ronald (Candy) Royal of Munith; two grandchildren, Luke Royal and Hunter Royal; five great-grandchildren: Braiden, Reid, Easton, Caleb, and Maverick; and a sister-in-law, Linda Clark of Ann Arbor. She was preceded in death by her brother, Ronald “Buzz” McAllister.

A private service will be held at a later date. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Dennis W. Gale

Dennis William Gale, age 65, of Ann Arbor, MI, passed away on October 9, 2026, at Trinity Health Ann Arbor Hospital.

Dennis was born on May 22, 1961, in Ann Arbor, MI, the son of Peter and Barbara (Clements) Gale. He grew up in Ann Arbor and graduated from Huron High School in 1979.

Dennis began his career at 3M, where he held various positions, including working in the clean room. He later worked as a Parts Coordinator for Terumo. He met his future wife, Debbi, on a roller-skating date, and they were married on October 31 at the Dixboro United Methodist Church. They raised their family in Chelsea. Dennis enjoyed helping others and volunteered for many years at Dawn Farm and throughout the Ann Arbor community.

Dennis is survived by his parents, Peter and Barbara Gale of Dixboro; a daughter, Tabbitha (Ben) Staub of Howell; five grandchildren: Harper, Raymond, Ervin, William, and Oliver; a brother, Ben (Luanne) Gale of Saline; two nephews, Mathew and Michael; and a son-in-law, Derek Hess.

He was preceded in death by the mother of his children, Debera L. Gale, and his daughter, Samantha Hess.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 1-4 p.m., at the Dawn Farm Community Barn, 6633 Stoney Creek, Ypsilanti, MI.  

Memorial contributions may be made to Dawn Farm.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Howard W. "Bill" Roush Jr.

Howard W. “Bill” Roush Jr., age 90, of Chelsea, Michigan, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2026.

A devoted husband, beloved father, and cherished grandfather, Bill leaves a legacy rooted in love, kindness, and a lifelong commitment to his family.

Born on July 7, 1936, in East Liverpool, Ohio, Bill was the son of Howard W. Roush Sr. and Reita (Slevin) Roush. He grew up on the family’s small farm in St. Clair Township, Ohio, and graduated from East Liverpool High School in 1954 before pursuing higher education at Kent State and John Carroll universities.

On December 28, 1957, Bill married the love of his life, Ann Marie Meek. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising five children and welcoming 19 grandchildren into the family that remained at the center of his heart. Their marriage spanned more than six decades, until Ann Marie’s passing on September 2, 2020.

To his family, Bill was their gentle leader. His steady presence, strength, and unwavering love were a source of comfort and guidance throughout their lives. He took immense pride in his children, celebrating their academic successes and college degrees, and found great joy in his grandchildren’s accomplishments. He believed deeply in their potential and encouraged them to meet life with dedication and a strong work ethic. Above all, he showed them the lasting value of loving and caring for one another. His greatest legacy is the family he and Ann nurtured and the values that will continue through generations.

Bill’s distinguished career with Chrysler Corporation spanned 35 years in human resources, with assignments at five manufacturing plants and in division and corporate staff positions. He retired at the end of 1991 as a senior executive and continued sharing his expertise as a consultant for more than 15 years.

Bill is survived by his five children, Howard W. Roush III, Amy Adams (Darren), Margaret Spence (Michael), Benjamin Roush (Lisa), and Valarie Kole (Max); his 19 cherished grandchildren; and his sister, Jane Pickens. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ann Marie; his parents; and three sisters, Frona Seitz, Patsy O’Hara, and Barbara McEldowney.

Visitation and the funeral service will both take place at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea on Sunday, October 18, 2026. The family will receive friends for visitation from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m., with Deacon Tom Franklin officiating. A private burial will take place at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Faith in Action, 603 S. Main Street, Chelsea, MI 48118.

Norma M. Johnson

Norma M. Johnson, age 100, of Ann Arbor, MI, passed away peacefully on October 6, 2026, at her home in Scio Township, surrounded by her loved ones.

Norma was born on August 21, 1926, in Twin Falls, Idaho, the daughter of Elmer and Agnes (Herron) McGinnis. She grew up on the family farm during the Great Depression, helping her father in the fields and learning to drive a tractor at a young age. She would have to stand up to reach the pedals. She often told her children of family dinners where a single potato was split four ways, and of cold winter nights when they heated bricks on the wood stove and tucked them under their blankets to stay warm.

She attended the Pentecostal Bible Institute in Tupelo, Mississippi, where she met Samuel E. Johnson. They married on August 7, 1953, in Twin Falls. In 1954, after Samuel was directed by a vision, they moved to Ann Arbor, where he founded, built and pastored Bible Tabernacle for over 65 years. They shared 71 years of marriage before he preceded her in death on April 2, 2025.

Norma served the Lord by teaching Sunday School and through her many musical talents. She played the organ, piano, guitar, banjo, accordion, mandolin and harmonica. In support of her husband's ministry, she taught music lessons, accompanied him on mission trips, and served as head cook for the many years of his camp meetings. She was an accomplished homemaker who devotedly raised four children and was known for hosting large gatherings in her home. For many events, up to 80 people at times would find a spot with a sleeping bag and stay overnight. The guys would have the finished basement and the girls would stay upstairs.

She loved being outdoors, meticulously tending her yard and preserving the produce from her garden. She had many hobbies, including knitting and puzzles and had several collections. Her husband would bring home spoons from his travels for her collection. She also collected teacups and stamps received on letters from across the world. Most of all, she was a faithful and loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, many of whom she was able to celebrate her 100th birthday with this past August.

Norma is survived by her four children: John Marshall (Paula) Johnson, Paul Clayton (Lela Diane) Johnson, Lucille Ruth (Brian) Erickson, and Mark Samuel (Esther) Johnson; 13 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and her sister, Ruth Stallones of Idaho. She was preceded in death by her parents; Elmer and Agnes McGinnis; her husband, Samuel; an infant son, James David Johnson; and a great-grandson, Everett Johnson.

Visitation will be held Friday, October 16, 2026, from 4–8 p.m. at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea, and Saturday, October 17, from 10–11 a.m. at the Little Flock Church, 825 N. Maple Rd., Ann Arbor. The funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. following the visitation at the church. Interment will be private.

The funeral service will be livestreamed and can be viewed by clicking HERE.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Tommy R. Partin

Tommy Ray Partin, age 76, passed away on October 3, 2026 at his home in Stockbridge, Michigan. He was born on March 16, 1950, in Greeneville, Tennessee, the son of Henry and Billie Sue (Banner) Partin.

Tommy enjoyed attending Forster Woods Adult Day Care Center in Lansing, where he participated in activities that brought him joy, helped him build life skills, and gave him the opportunity to spend time with others. He also attended adult day programs in the Holt area and in Washtenaw County for many years. He especially enjoyed doing crafts and spending time working and socializing with others. The friendships and connections Tommy made there were an important and special part of his life.

Tommy had a love for people and enjoyed playing checkers with everyone he met. He was also a collector at heart, taking great joy in gathering knickknacks and pieces from various games. His greatest collection was his collection of marbles. Over the years, Tommy collected thousands of different marbles, which he was always proud to show to others.

Music was another important part of Tommy’s life. He had an impressive collection of 8-track tapes, cassettes, and records, and he regularly listened to classic country music from the 1950s and 1960s, including the music of Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash, and Willie Nelson. He also had a love for hats. Tommy always had a hat, and would ask people to give him hats all the time. His birthday was a big deal to him, and starting with the day after Christmas, he would tell everyone, "My birthday is March 16th." It will always be remembered!

Tommy will be missed by his brothers, Bruce Partin of Hudson and Edmund (Karen) Partin of Stockbridge; his sister, Debra Smalley of Ypsilanti; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Bryan Partin, and his sister, Evelyn Partin.

A Graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at Highland Cemetery in Ypsilanti, Michigan, with Deacon Robert Gornall officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Forster Woods Adult Care Center in Lansing. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge, MI.

Peter L. Geyer

Peter L. Geyer, age 61, of Manchester, passed away on October 4, 2026, at Chelsea Hospital.

Peter was born on March 15, 1965. He had lived in the Manchester area for the past 10 years after moving from Jackson. Peter worked as carpenter specializing in granite countertops and tabletops.

Peter is survived by his mother, Arlene of Chicago, Illinois; his children, Peter Limon of Holland, Casimior Espinosa of Bay City, Kayla Geyer of Manchester, and Sebastian Geyer of Hudson; his sisters, Nona Geyer of Illinois and Terri Kodrick of Saginaw; and his brothers, Sam Geyer, Mark Geyer, and David Geyer, all of Illinois. He was preceded in death by a sister, Ronnie, and brother, Randy Geyer.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Betty Lou Benedict

Betty Lou Benedict, age 80, of Manchester, MI, passed away at her home on October 2, 2026.

She was born on October 10, 1945, in Tecumseh, MI, the daughter of Robert and Bertha (Briem) Tase. Betty was a lifelong resident of the Manchester area and worked as an administrative assistant for R.D. Kleinschmidt roofing company for many years.

Betty enjoyed playing cards, bingo, Scrabble, and working on puzzles. She was an avid reader and collected Norman Rockwell plates. She also enjoyed spending time outdoors tending to her flower gardens. Betty looked forward to the Manchester Fair each year and enjoyed cooking for her family. Above all, she enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and could often be found on the sidelines cheering them on at their many sporting events.

Betty is survived by her children, Jeff Kunzelman, Brian (Holly) Kunzelman, Jennifer (Michael) Blumenauer, and Christopher Benedict, all of Manchester; five grandchildren, Ryan, Hayley, Brandon, Caleb, and Carson; and one great-grandson, Holden. She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter-in-law, Cheryl Kunzelman; and sister, Shirley Penland.

Visitation will be held at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., and on Friday, October 9, 2026, from 10-11 a.m. at Bethel United Church of Christ, 10425 Bethel Church Rd., Manchester, MI 48158.

Funeral services will be held Friday, October 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Bethel United Church of Christ, with Pastor David Bucholtz officiating.

To view the service, please click HERE.

Burial will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery in Manchester.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Manchester Dutchmen Firefighters Association.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.