Curtis R. Chillison

Curtis Richard Chillison, of Gregory, MI, age 76, passed away peacefully at home with his loving family by his side on August 21, 2023.

Curt was born on November 10, 1946 in Detroit, MI, the son of Oliver and Wilhelmina "Mina" (McGee) Chillison. He was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary; sister, Judy (Michael) Fly of Nashville, TN; daughters, Michelle (Jamie) Lewis, Micki Chillison, Eileen-Young Bradley, Michelle (Thad) Kellenberger. He held a special place in his heart for his nephew, Joseph Fly. Curt will be greatly missed by his 12 grandchildren: Bradley, Ryan, Noah, Ava, Brian, Audrey, Ethan, Macy, Owen, Lauren, Natalie, and Alaina.

He was a 1964 Stockbridge High School graduate and went on to study at Jackson College, where he received his degree in science. Curt was a hard-working mason for over 40 years. He was a member of the B.A.C Union his entire career.

He loved sports, with Michigan football being his favorite. His other passion was his grandchildren. He loved watching the kids play their various sports and was a proud fan in the stands.

After you met Curt, you were never a stranger. He will be missed by many friends and family.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 24, 2023 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, August 25, 2023, 11:00 a.m., at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Williamsville Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Unadilla Firefighters Association.

Paul C. Sturgill

Paul Charles Sturgill, age 50, passed away on August 17, 2023 at his home in Munith, MI. Paul was born on November 22, 1972 in Jackson, MI, the son of Charles and Sandra (Dudeck) Sturgill.

Paul had lived in the Munith area his entire life, and he graduated from Stockbridge High School. He worked in construction for LiUNA Construction Laborers’ Local 499. Paul enjoyed hunting and fishing, and he loved his dog, Remington.

Paul is survived by his parents, Charles and Sandra Sturgill of Munith, and a brother, William Sturgill of Jackson. He was preceded in death by a twin infant brother, Charles Jr., his grandparents, Kenneth and Margaret Dudeck and Reese and Virgie Sturgill; as well as a sister-in-law, Roberta Sturgill.

The family will receive friends at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home on Tuesday, August 22, 2023 from 5-7 p.m. and on Wednesday from 10-11 a.m.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 23, 2023, 11:00 a.m., at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home with Pastor Eric Stricklin officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Henrietta Township, MI.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Henrietta Twp. Library. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home.

David E. Tifft Sr.

David Edward Tifft Sr., age 79, of Munith, MI was born May 25, 1944 in Sturgis, MI, passed away on Wednesday, August 16, 2023 in Jackson, MI and is now with his Savior, Jesus Christ.

David was a graduate of Jackson High School in 1963. After high school, he worked at the Ingham County Sheriff Department before becoming a plant manager at Kelsey-Hayes in Jackson, MI where he retired in 2001. David enjoyed his hobby of collecting things, with Coca-Cola being his largest collection that he even had a small local museum for it. He later sold his collection all over the world from his eBay shop. He also enjoyed hobbies such as bowling, golfing, and playing poker with friends; but he was happiest when spending time with his wife and family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Jack Borst and Natalie Tifft; his step-father, Donald Tifft; his wife, Karen Tifft; his siblings: Charles Borst, Sharon Grim, Bobby Tifft, Linda Deuble; and his brother-in-law and wife, William (Katherine) Stephens. He is survived by his children: David (Tammy) Tifft Jr., Mary (Gary) Sawyer; along with seven grandchildren: Andrew (Ashlee) Sawyer, Amanda (Chase) Perry, Kelsey Tifft, Kendal (Shawn) Savage, Bella Tifft, Heidi Tifft, and Jasmin Tifft; five great-grandchildren; as well as siblings: Brad (Laura) Tifft, Marsha (Charles) Reul.

David was a cherished husband of 55 years to his wife, Karen; a loving father to his children; and a wonderful grandpa, great-grandpa, son, brother, and uncle. He will forever be remembered and missed dearly by those who knew and loved him and the funny and wonderful memories he created.

Expressions of sympathy can be made to Highland Assisted Living & Memory Care, 1948 Cooper St., Jackson, MI 49202.

A funeral service will be at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home on Monday, August 21, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery. Family will receive friends at the funeral home from 12-1 p.m.

Joyce A. Steele

Joyce Ann Steele, 77, of Manchester, MI, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, August 14, 2023. She was born on March 4, 1946 in Ann Arbor, Michigan to Eugene and Rose (Yekisa) Kaupp.

Joyce married John W. Steele Jr. on September 17, 1966 in Chelsea, Michigan. She will be remembered as a fashionable woman that loved to shop. Joyce was a graduate of Manchester High School in the class of 1964. She worked at Manchester Community Schools for many years in the food service department. Joyce loved to travel and was also a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her house was always well-decorated for the seasons and was once a part of the Manchester Christmas Parade and Holiday Celebration. Joyce will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Joyce will be missed by her husband of 56 years, John W. Steele Jr.; her children, Terry (Lynda) Steele, Tammy (Kevin) Wright, and Tara (Kelly) Jedele; sister, Janice Weiss Stoll; grandchildren, Stephanie (Jackson) Myers, Brandon Steele, Connor, Madison, and Miranda Wright, and Jordan and Katie Jedele; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Eugene and Rose Kaupp.

Joyce’s family and friends will gather at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea on Wednesday, August 16, 2023 from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 - 8:00 p.m., as well as Thursday, August 17, 2023 from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Thursday, August 17, 2023, 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Eugene Blair officiating.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Arbor Hospice or Faith in Action.

Please leave a message of comfort for Joyce’s family.

David B. Steinbach

David Blake Steinbach of North Lake, Michigan, age 64, passed away on August 9, 2023 after a courageous battle with cancer. Dave was born on May 5, 1959 in Ann Arbor, Michigan to Ray and Alice (Bregger) Steinbach. He grew up in Chelsea, Michigan and graduated from Chelsea High School in 1977.

Dave attended Northern Michigan University and then joined the U.S. Navy, where he served as a Nuclear Reactor Operator on the U.S.S. Omaha based in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. On September 7, 1984, Dave married the love of his life, Shannon Springer, and while still serving in the Navy, son Sean and daughter Tracy were born. After leaving the Navy, Dave and Shannon returned to Michigan, and Dave started working at the University of Michigan, where he was employed at the College of Engineering supporting classroom technology for over 34 years.

Dave’s true passions were family, the outdoors, and University of Michigan sports. He loved anything to do with hunting, fishing, and conservation. Dave was a hunter safety instructor and an active member of the Chelsea Rod and Gun Club, where he served in a number of positions, including president. He also helped start and was an active instructor of the youth shooting group since 2002. Dave also served in many positions of leadership with the local, state, and national chapters of Ducks Unlimited, Inc., where his involvement and contributions will serve the organization for years to come.

Dave loved to entertain, host gatherings, and make others happy. From his famous wild game meals, to fund-raising dinners, to his annual North Lake Fireworks celebration, Dave’s gift was bringing people together. One of Dave’s favorite places to get away to was Murph’s Camp in the Upper Peninsula, where he spent the opening week of deer season for over 30 years. The camp was also the location for relaxing and enjoying time with family and friends throughout the year.

Dave is survived by his wife, Shannon (Springer); son, Sean Steinbach; daughter, Tracy Steinbach; brother, Vic (Shari) Steinbach; mother-in-law, Sallie Springer; sisters-in-law, Sherrie Springer and Shelly (Curt) Kessler; and many nieces and nephews who affectionately called Dave “Uncle Buck.”

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Alice Steinbach, and father-in-law, Sheridan Springer. Dave’s life was enriched by all the friendships he made over the years and he will be dearly missed.

Visitation will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea, on Sunday, August 13, 2023 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. with a reception to follow at the Chelsea Rod & Gun Club, 7103 Lingane Rd., Chelsea.

Those wishing to make a contribution in Dave’s memory may do so to the Chelsea Rod & Gun Club or Western Washtenaw Ducks Unlimited.

Irene Ida Naegeli

Irene Ida (Blaser) Naegeli, of Chelsea, Michigan, passed away on Friday, July 14, 2023 at the age of 96. She was born on February 3, 1927 in Basel, Switzerland, the daughter of Gottfried and Katharina (Weber) Blaser. Irene had lived most recently at Silver Maples of Chelsea, Michigan for the past ten years, spending many years previous to that in Harbor Springs, Michigan.

Born, raised and educated in her home country of Switzerland, Irene then transitioned into a truly fascinating adult life that included many highlights such as - working for the Swiss Foreign Office inBelgrade, Yugoslavia; meeting her future husband skiing in the Swiss Alps; emigrating alone to the USA in 1956; marrying Edward Naegeli in Michigan in 1957; obtaining US citizenship in 1963; raising their five children; living in Germany and England with the family from 1973 – ‘87 while Edward served international assignments there for General Motors; and traveling much of the World upon his retirement. Hobbies and interests included nature and the outdoors, traveling, sewing and knitting, listening to music, golf and, above all, her family. Amazingly, in her early seventies, she quickly developed into a prolific producer of art. In her later homes, she was able to surround herself with her own stunning creations. She was interesting, interested and lived a life highlighted by positive attitude, good spirits, love, and gratitude.

Irene is survived by her five children, Esther (William) Durnwald of Portland, Michigan; Markus (Susan) Naegeli of Kokomo, Indiana; Christopher (Virginia) Naegeli of Franklin, Michigan; Monika (Bridget Benshetler) Naegeli of Snow Hill, Maryland; Lilian (James) Anderson of Ann Arbor, Michigan; her sister, Margrit Rochat of Evilard, Switzerland, thirteen grandchildren (Brigitte, William, Henry, Kaleb, Anna, Kira, Leah, Christina, Jakob, EmmaJane, Samuel, Gabriela and Christofer) and eight great grandchildren (Irene, Liam, Emma, Olivia, Desmond, Heidi, Nora and Luke). She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward (2017) and her two brothers, Freddy and Werner.

In lieu of flowers, donations in the memory of Irene Naegeli may be made to Faith In Action, a community funded assistance and resource center in Chelsea Faith In Action - Make a Donation (faithinaction1.org)

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, September 16, 2023, 1:30 p.m., at Silver Maples of Chelsea.

Rodger I. Stewart

Rodger Ira Stewart, of Grass Lake, MI, age 66, passed away on August 8, 2023 in Chelsea, MI.

Rodger was born on February 26, 1957, the son of Harold and Virginia (Peck) Stewart. He had lived in the Chelsea area most of his life, graduating from Chelsea High School in 1975. On June 30, 1979, he married Anita A. (Harat) in Chelsea, MI. He was self-employed as a mason for many years. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, deer hunting and fishing. He loved watching a good Western or Army movie.

In addition to his wife, Anita, he is survived by two children, Cory (Hannah) Stewart of Chelsea, and Jesse (Kelly) Stewart of St. Clair Shores; four grandchildren, Cameron, Riley, Jenna, and Allison; his siblings, Ralph Stewart, Richard Stewart, and Brenda (David) Smyth, all of Grass Lake; Sharon Anteau and Leona Ingram; sister-in-law, Monica Maurer of Grass Lake, and brother-in-law, Bruce Dygert of Jackson. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 15, 2023, from 4-6 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Bradley Quinn Sullivan

Bradley Quinn Sullivan, age 22, passed away on August 6, 2023. He was born the son of Michael and Annette Sullivan on April 15, 2001 in Royal Oak, Michigan.

Brad lived a dynamic life.  In so few years he experienced far more than most, and more than we even know. He met and endeared himself to many people, both friends and acquaintances.  He was always willing to help someone in need, really anything. 

Brad found awe in life in his travels and excitement in most anything new. He took his own unique path in life; it was his university. He was a small scale entrepreneur, always finding a way to do something better. He was destined to start his own business one day. No doubt he would have been wildly successful once he found and focused on his true passion. He recognized the need to acquire the finer skills to enable his dreams.

When he passed, Brad again was going after his unique approach to explore excitement, new experiences, and gaining knowledge, as he was in the process of joining the United States Air Force and hoped to start a degree in business while there. 

Brad loved his country deeply. The energy of his dreams and visions inspired many and those fortunate to know him will never forget him. He loved his mother, father and siblings and his puppy, Gus.  In addition to his parents, he is survived by his siblings, Mack (Maureen) Sullivan, Wesley Sullivan, and Russell Sullivan. He is also survived by his grandfather, Lloyd Clapper, along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Brad was preceded in death by his grandmother, Sandra Clapper, and his grandparents, Paul and Barb Sullivan.

A public visitation will take place Thursday, August 10, 2023 at the Staffan-Mitchell  Funeral Home from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.  A private service will take place at a later date. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation or The Sullivan Family Go Fund Me.

Karen Lynn Bush

Karen Lynn Bush, age 52, of Grass Lake, MI, passed away on August 6, 2023 at her home surrounded by her family. Karen was born on January 28, 1971, in Clovis, New Mexico, the daughter of Jerry and Vicki (Mitchell) Poley. She graduated from Manchester High School, class of 1989.

She had lived in the Grass Lake area for the past 22 years, and she worked in the accounting department at Kia of Jackson for the past 15 plus years. Karen enjoyed crafts and painting. She loved her dog, Bella, and enjoyed spending time outside, whether it was gardening, fishing, or hunting. She also enjoyed camping and traveling. One of her favorite trips was with her husband, Gary, to the Outer Banks in North Carolina. She took a couple special trips with her sister, Amie, filling much of her bucket list which included Alaska and Yellowstone. Most of all she loved her family.

She is survived by her husband of almost 30 years, Gary Bush, her father, Jerry Poley of Grass Lake; sister, Amie Armstrong of Manchester; aunt, Jacki (Karl) Roehm of Tecumseh; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her mother, Vicki L. Poley, in April 2023.

Visitation will be held at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea on Tuesday, August 8, 2023 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. as well as on Wednesday, from 12-1 p.m.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, 1:00 p.m., at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea. Burial will follow at Ridgeway Cemetery in Tecumseh, MI.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea Hospital Cancer Center. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Carol Ann Gerisch

Carol Ann (Laska) Gerisch, age 78, of Gregory, MI, passed away August 4, 2023 at U of M Hospital in Ann Arbor, MI. She was born on March 12, 1945, the eldest daughter of the late Arthur and Cecilia Laska.

She had lived on Bruin Lake for the last 54 years in the house she and her husband Robert built, spending winters in their beloved home in Florida. She worked as a teacher, coach, and administrator for River Rouge and Stockbridge Schools until she retired. She loved going to watch youth sporting events, gardening, quilting, off shore fishing in Florida, lake life, Michigan football, and most of all her grandchildren.

On June 28, 1968 she married Robert Gerisch, and he preceded her in death. Surviving is her son, Aaron (Meghan) Gerisch of Kingwood, TX; two granddaughters, Ayla and Khyla; two brothers, Arthur (Ann) Laska of Livonia, MI, and Scott (Shelly) Laska of Knoxville, TN; one sister, Mary Malone of Grosse Pointe, MI; also numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and other extended family members.

A celebration of life will take place at a later date.