Thomas "Skip" Broughton

Thomas “Skip” Franklin Broughton, age 75, of Chelsea, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home on October 29, 2023 from myelofibrosis. Tom was born in Detroit, MI, to Frank and Audrey Broughton and had a childhood filled with many outdoor adventures, developing a passion for hunting and fishing in Northern Michigan.

After graduating from Belleville High School, Tom enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served in the Vietnam War. While home on leave, Tom’s sister Kathy introduced him to his lifelong love, Roberta, and they were married on June 18, 1971 in Germany. Some of Tom’s most cherished memories were from their honeymoon as they traveled throughout Europe. After returning to Michigan, Tom settled in Chelsea, where he began Broughton Construction, taking great pride in helping families build and remodel quality homes throughout the area.

Tom and Roberta raised three daughters in the Chelsea home that Tom lovingly rebuilt. Tom was a true outdoorsman and loved to spend time hunting, taking any (and all) measures necessary to chase down the perfect buck each year. When not hunting, Tom could be found spending time with family and friends, cracking jokes to try to make someone laugh. Tom enjoyed breaking bread with family and friends and loved Roberta’s lasagna and banana cream pie, his mom’s breakfast, Ryan’s mac and cheese, Jim’s macaroni salad, and so many others. Every week Tom could loyally be found at the Chelsea Farmer’s Market, gathering ingredients for the next dish he was going to concoct.

Tom is survived by his dear wife of 52 years, Roberta, his peanut gallery daughters, Melanie (Alan) Steinhauser of Warren, Stephanie (Ryan Ely) Broughton of Belleville, and Alicia (Gary) Norman of Fort Wayne, IN; his loved grandchildren, Anna, Madeline and Meredith Steinhauser, and Grady Norman; and his mother, Audrey Broughton.

Tom is also survived by his siblings, Linda Broughton of Cape Coral, FL, Kathy DeCormier of Norton Shores, James (Peggy) Broughton of Whittemore, Deborah Broughton of Flushing, and Sharon Broughton of Belleville, along with many close nieces and nephews. Tom is preceded in death by his father, Frank Broughton, and his nephew, Steve Broughton.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, November 5, 2023, from 1-2 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea, with a service at 2:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life at the Chelsea Depot will follow the service. The family is encouraging those that knew Tom to bring a memory or photo to share.

The family would like to thank the team at Hematology and Infusion at the Ann Arbor VA Hospital for providing the most excellent care and support.

In lieu of flowers or donations, the family is requesting that you please take time to share a good meal and laughter with your family and friends, as Tom loved to do.

Tom will always hold a place in our hearts.

Mary Ellen Ramsdell

Mary Ellen (Knott) Ramsdell, of Stockbridge, age 81, passed away on October 25, 2023 at Provision Living of Canton. She was born on September 26, 1942 in Ann Arbor, Michigan the daughter of Hubert and Ellen L. (Smith) Knott.

She spent the first five years of her life in Munith, before moving to Stockbridge for five years, and then moving to a dairy farm in Munith. She won a blue ribbon for her cow, Phyllis, at the Ingham County Fair. Mary Ellen graduated from Stockbridge High School in 1960 as the Valedictorian of her class. In high school, she was active in band, glee club, debate, yearbook, Girls State, and she won the Betty Crocker Homemaker Award.

Mary Ellen graduated from the University of Michigan in 1963 and promptly went to work as a teacher at Ypsilanti High School, followed by Lamphere High School in Madison Heights, before raising her children and becoming a full time parent. As the kids reached high school age, Mary Ellen returned to teaching at New Haven High School, where she taught English and French.

Mary Ellen married Richard Ramsdell on June 19, 1964 in Munith, MI, and they had two children, Martha Christine and Catherine Mary. Mary Ellen and Richard lived in Ypsilanti, Madison Heights, Royal Oak, Romeo, and Stockbridge. During this period, Mary Ellen was active in various church and community activities, and choir. She had a beautiful voice and very much enjoyed singing in her barbershop quartet in Romeo, MI. She also enjoyed reading and gardening.

Mary Ellen is survived by her husband of 59 years, Richard Ramsdell; her daughters, Martha (Gary) Vartanoff, Catherine (Stephen Boller) Ramsdell; three siblings, Raymond (Penny) Knott, Evelyn Hoth, Norman (Tammy) Knott, as well as many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister-in-law, Denise Knott, and brother-in-law, William Hoth.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 4, 2023, 11:00 a.m., at the First Presbyterian Church of Stockbridge with Rev. Dr. Deborah J. Smith officiating. The family will receive friends at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Stockbridge. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Maryanna Robertson

Maryanna Robertson, age 97, of Dexter Twp., MI, passed away on October 23, 2023 at her home at North Lake. Maryanna was born on September 4, 1926 in Murray, KY the daughter of Lilburn and Alberta (Wilson) Huie. On October 4, 1946, she married Billy R. Robertson, and he preceded her in death in 2009.

Billy and Maryanna moved to the North Lake area in 1952 from Highland Park, MI. Maryanna was the oldest member of the North Lake United Methodist Church. She served on the North Lake Cemetery Board for many years. She also was a life-time member of Inverness Country Club, where she enjoyed the social membership, the Women's League, and back in the day the Snowmobile Club. She had a wealth of knowledge of the Park Lawn Beach and Inverness area. Many will remember Maryanna from Beach Middle School, where she worked for many years as a secretary in the office. Billy and Maryanna enjoyed traveling all over the United States in their RV. They spent many winters in Panama Beach, FL. Maryanna also enjoyed reading, spending time with her family, and she loved her Spartans. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Maryanna is survived by three children, Mark (Jean) Robertson of Paw Paw, MI, Valerie Paladino of North Lake, and Scott (Marjorie) Robertson of Bend, Oregon; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband, Billy, she was preceded in death by four brothers and one sister.

A private graveside service will be held at North Lake Cemetery. Those wishing to make a donation in Maryanna's honor may do so to the North Lake United Methodist Church. Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Norman W. Cooper II

Norman William Cooper II, of Pleasant Lake, Michigan, passed away at his home surrounded by his family on October 20, 2023. He was the first born son of Norman W. and Margaret L. Cooper I on October 30, 1945 and the eldest of eight.

On May 20, 1972, he married Sara M. Hyden, and she survives. Norman was a Vietnam Veteran, Purple Heart recipient, and received a Bronze Star for his valor. He retired from the Jackson County Road Commission after 32 years of service. Norman loved watching and coaching sports of all kinds, especially his children and grandchildren's activities. He enjoyed building hot rods, gardening, woodworking, and being retired.

In addition to his wife Sara, Norman is survived by his children, Jennifer, Michael (Bambi), and Amy; nine grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service is planned for a later date, and a private burial will take place at Pleasant Grove Cemetery.

Andreas Hofer

Andreas Hofer, of Stockbridge, Michigan, passed away at his home on October 20, 2023 surrounded by family. He was born the son of Michael and Coral (Pettit) Hofer in Shell Lake Township, Minnesota on November 1, 1940. He married Geraldine Zawacki in 1963, and she preceded him in death in 1982.

Andy proudly served in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and talking to animals. He was a loving son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather.

Andy is survived by his daughters, Kimberly (Phillip) Craft, Michelle (William) Schaible; grandchildren, Noah and Emily Schaible; brothers, Michael and Patrick, and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife and parents, Andy is preceded in death by his son, David; and sisters-in-law, Barbara and Lois.

A memorial service is planed for Saturday, November 18, 2023, 2:00 p.m. at the Highest Praise Worship Center in Stockbridge, MI. Burial will take place at a later date at Ft. Custer National Cemetery.

William M. Broucek

William M. Broucek, age 88, formerly of Ann Arbor, Manchester, and Chelsea, MI, passed away on October 17, 2023 in Englewood, FL. He was born November 13, 1934 in Chicago, IL the son of Frank and Alice (Byrn) Broucek. He graduated Cum Laude from the University of Notre Dame in 1956 with a Bachelor's degree in finance. He then served in the United States Army from 1956-1958.

Bill was an innovative banking entrepreneur. He began his long and exemplary career in finance at the National Bank of Detroit, working in the credit department, specializing in commercial loans. He became the bank's first international lender in 1964, and within a few years served as a financial advisor to many colleges and universities in Michigan.

In 1974, he founded the Banking Division of Ann Arbor Trust Company. Bill developed business plans, policies, and procedures that grew capital and bank offices. In 1995 he co-founded the Bank of Ann Arbor, growing the company over a twenty-year period. The bank grew from 15 employees to nearly 100 employees, one office location to five locations, increasing trust assets and deposits, and turned the bank around from losing money to successful yearly profits. As a banker Bill strove to create a bank that served the community and its customers. He took great pride in knowing its customers and helping them achieve their financial success.

His last position was that of Chairman and CEO of Ann Arbor State Bank from 2008-2014, and Executive Chairman from 2013 until he retired. Ann Arbor State Bank opened in 2009, and within the first year became profitable. During the first five years, deposits and assets grew, staff doubled, and since 2010 the bank has been rated a 5-Star bank by Bauer Financial.

In 2011, Bill was awarded an honorary Doctorate degree from Cleary University, and in 2013 he was recognized as Community Banker of the Year.

In addition to his extensive banking career, Bill was deeply involved in his community, whether serving as director, trustee, chairman, or board member, he lent much of his time, talent, advice, to various chapters in Ann Arbor, Manchester, and throughout Washtenaw County. Area banks, schools, hospitals, music societies, the American Heart, the American Red Cross, and Girl Scouts all benefited from his involvement over the years.

Bill was a loving father and enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchild. He enjoyed golfing and was proud that he was on the golf team when he was in the Army. He loved fishing and bird hunting throughout his life. He was an avid Notre Dame fan, often reliving the glory days of attending the University of Notre Dame, where he was the manager of the basketball team as a student.

Bill married Sandra J (Orndorf), and between them they had eight children. They lived in Ann Arbor for many years, eventually moving to Manchester and then Chelsea, eventually retiring to Florida.

Surviving are his wife of 36 years, Sandra, children: Brian (Tina) Broucek of Edmonds, WA, Becky (Terry) Bussineau of Dexter, MI, Hope (Andre Tiffany) Broucek of Seattle, WA, René (Glenn) Schroeder of Port Charlotte, FL, Bill II (Shahnaz) Broucek of Canton, MI, Amy (David Muczynski) Broucek of Grass Lake, MI, and Robin (Scott) Staelgraeve of Chelsea, MI; 18 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild; his siblings, John Broucek of Tennessee, Alison Broucek of The Villages, FL, and Karen McNamara of California. He was preceded in death by his parents, and three brothers, Frank, Jerry, and Richard, and a sister, Elizabeth.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, 11:00 a.m., at St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea with V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner presiding. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea, MI.

The family will receive friends on Monday, October 30, 2023 from 5-7 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. The family will also receive friends at the church on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Memorial contributions may be made to Faith in Action.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Richard A. Cuthbert

Richard A. Cuthbert, age 65, of Stockbridge, MI, passed away on October 17, 2023. He was born October 19, 1957 in Ann Arbor, MI, the son of William and Doris (Guest) Cuthbert. On June 16, 1984 he married Jane M. (Livingston), and she survives.

Richard had lived in the Stockbridge area for the past 37 years. He proudly served in the United States Navy. He worked as a journeyman tool and die maker for many years, and later worked as the frozen foods manager at Polly's Country Market in Chelsea. He loved to garden, and he enjoyed playing with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed traveling.

In addition to his wife, Jane, he is survived by three children, Anthony (Kristy) Cuthbert of Dansville, Nicholas Cuthbert of Jerome, and Hailey Cuthbert of Stockbridge; three grandchildren, Layla, Isabella, and Joshua; and his siblings, Gary (Donna) Cuthbert of New Jersey, Daniel (Polly) Cuthbert of Whitmore Lake, Michael Cuthbert of Williamston, and David (Laura) Cuthbert of Adrian. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister, Nancy Cramer.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 22, 2023 from 4-6 p.m. at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home in Stockbridge.

A funeral service will be held Monday, October 23, 2023, 11:00 a.m., at the funeral home with Pastor Steve Weinberger officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to SAESA or the Mackinder Glenn American Legion Post 510.

James L. Craft

James L. Craft, of Chelsea, Michigan, passed away at the St. Joseph Ann Arbor Hospital on October 17, 2023 surrounded by his family.

He was born the son of Evert and Zelphie (Cole) Craft on May 21, 1934 in Gage, Kentucky. On August 23, 1953, he married Madeline (Wiley) in Royalton, Kentucky, and she survives.

James was a man of faith and was a member of the Harvest Baptist Church for over 50 years. In his younger years, he enjoyed the outdoors, hunting and fishing. He was a member of the Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 190 for over 25 years. Before joining the union, he was a plumber for Hilltop Plumbing. He loved working with his hands, making gifts for his family in his home workshop. 

In addition to his wife, Madeline, he is survived by his sons, Jerry (Vicki) Craft, and Bobby Craft; six grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson. James is also survived by his siblings: Mary (Jim) Tuttle, Lawrence Conley, Ray (Pam) Conley, Alma Conley, and Versie Pike; and brother-in-law, Bob Stafford. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings: Denzel (Beatrice) Conley, Ruby (Bill) Sawyer, Jewel Stafford, Evert Craft Jr., and Raymond Jack Craft.

The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Thursday, October 19, 2023 from 6-8 p.m., and Friday, October 20, 2023 from 6-8 p.m.

A funeral service will be held at the Harvest Baptist Church, 17999 Washburn Road, Grass Lake, Michigan on Saturday, October 21, 2023 at 10:00 a.m., with Pastor Bobby Toler officiating.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Harvest Baptist Church.

James M. White Sr.

James M. White Sr., age 62, of Jackson, MI, passed away peacefully on October 13, 2023 at his home, surrounded by his family.

He was born on August 10, 1961 in Ann Arbor, MI to Judy A. (Briston) and Howard M. White. A bit of a nomad, he had lived in the Jackson area for the past nine years, previously living in Hillsdale, Unadilla, Gregory, and Canton. James spent most of his life working as a mechanic. He loved the challenge of cars, appreciated American Muscle, and was affectionately known as “The Car God .'' He was a proud, brilliant, witty man. James loved his beautiful hair, good music, crosswords, golf, and was almost unbeatable in Scrabble. He was an inventor in his own right and could solve almost anything. However, his legacy lies in his huge loving heart, generosity, strong spirit, and words of wisdom that have touched many. He deeply loved his family, and his two loyal dog children: Zeppelin and Sabbath.

James is survived in his death by his wife, Kathryn (Waller). Also surviving are his mother, Judy Johnson of Jackson, four children: Kerry (Jason Clark) Adams of Mason, Nicole (Robert Solo) White of South Boardman, James White Jr. of Jackson, and Holly White of Kalkaska, MI; the mother of his children, Pamela Sue White of Jackson; four step-children: Amanda Schneider, Joe McPherson, Meghan McPherson, and Elizabeth McPherson, all of Florida; nineteen grandchildren; two brothers, William White of Stockbridge, and Matthew White of Pinckney, and two sisters, Ellen Klapperich of Munith, Tina (Daniel Chapin) White of Stockbridge, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Howard White, step-father, Robin Johnson, and beloved brother-in-law, Keith Klapperich.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to James' son, James M. White Jr., for the exceptional, selfless, loving care he gave to his father.

A Graveside Service will be held on Thursday, October 19, 2023, 1:00 p.m., at Oaklawn Cemetery with Pastor Steve Weinberger officiating. A luncheon in his honor will follow at Stockbridge United Methodist Church.

Memorial contributions may be made to an animal shelter of your choice. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.

Vaughn W. Dixon Jr.

Vaughn W. Dixon, Jr., age 84, of Stockbridge, MI, passed away on October 14, 2023 at his home.

Vaughn was born on July 20, 1939, the son of Vaughn Sr. and Catherine (Adams) Dixon. He had lived in the Stockbridge area his entire life, where owned and operated an auto body shop for 20 plus years. He also enjoyed spending time outdoors, hunting and fishing.

In August of 1957, he married Delma S. (Salyer), and she survives. Also surviving are four children, Randall (Brenda) Dixon of Bear Lake, Kathy Dixon of Tennessee, William Dixon of Stockbridge, and Douglas (Angela) Dixon of Mulliken, MI; seven grandchildren and several great-grandchildren; a sister, Margaret Hayes of Arizona, and a brother, Daniel (Valerie) Dixon of Stockbridge. He was preceded in death by a son, Sidney Dixon, in 1999.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 from 5-7 p.m. at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home in Stockbridge, MI.

Memorial contributions may be made to SAESA. Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home.