Alexis R. Barber

Alexis R. Barber, of Wayne, MI, formerly of Chelsea, MI, age 32, passed away on May 5, 2025.

Alexis was born on January 17, 1993 in Ann Arbor, MI, the daughter of Delayne and Tara (Foley) Barber. Alexis grew up in Chelsea and graduated from Chelsea High School in 2011. She completed her training at the Douglas J. Aveda Institute and was self-employed as a beautician.

She found happiness in crafting, making candles and jewelry, and cooking.

She is survived by her father, Delayne of Chelsea, her mother, Tara of Belleville; two children, Maddox, age 6, and Cruz, age 2; her siblings: Chase Barber of Chelsea, Brooke Barber of Belleville, Morgan Barber of Ann Arbor; her grandparents: Ronald Foley of Clio, Laura Morgan of Wayne, John and Drema Barber of Brighton, and Peggy Dowling and Buck Dowling. She was preceded in death by the father of her children, Nicholas Cooper.

A private service was held. Memorial contributions may be made to an educational fund for her children, with checks payable to Mary Cooper.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Chad C. Trinkle

Chad Trinkle, age 47, passed away peacefully on May 4th, 2025, in his home in Dexter, MI. Chad was born on June 13, 1977, in Ann Arbor MI to Doug and Penny Trinkle.

Chad was a hard working, fun-having, larger than life person. He had a gentle soul that cared for animals and a tremendous heart that loved his family, friends, and community. Chad was one of the most giving and helpful people you could ever be lucky enough to meet. His chuckle and smile were famous for being contagious and would never be the only smile or laugh left in the room. Even strangers fell victim to Chad’s warm laughter.

Chad was the husband to Carrie (Vargo) and the father of three beautiful children. Married on December 7th, 2002, Chad and Carrie built their family on a foundation of selfless love. As a team, Chad and Carrie struggled and thrived through life’s ups and downs knowing they always had each other’s back.

As a young man, Chad worked at a number of local businesses including Chelsea Grain Elevator and Chelsea Lumber. He would later go on to work for the Washtenaw County Road Commission for over 20 years. Chad was very active in the community, volunteering countless hours at the Chelsea Fairgrounds. For over two decades Chad served on the Chelsea Fair Board, further devoting his time and effort to maintaining and improving the fairgrounds and surrounding community.

Chad was a lifelong farmer. Growing up, Chad’s love for farming was instilled in him by his dad, who he would spend countless hours with working in the barn or out in the field. If Chad was missing, the first place to look was always the farm, and he’d probably be there. Chad passed this love of farming and raising livestock down to his own children. It was often teased that Chad’s favorite holiday was fair week, but it was true. He loved watching his kids show animals at the fair and would always be proud of their hard work and time spent preparing for the fair. One of his proudest moments in life was when his son, Josh, got back in the ring and showed pigs after many years of not doing so. Josh has muscular dystrophy, a very challenging and restrictive disease. With Chad’s encouragement, Josh returned to showing his animals at the fair. Chad told Josh, “No matter what challenge you face, you can always find a way to make it possible.”

Chad enjoyed watching WWE, football, and many other TV shows with his family. Chad loved going places with Josh, especially football games. Wherever he went, a can of Grizzly and a Pepsi went too.

He loved spending time with his granddaughter, Maya, when she traveled for long visits. He wanted her to call him “Gramps,” but she renamed him “PawPaw.” He would take her down to the farm to see the cows and on tractor rides whenever he could. Caroline, his new granddaughter, was born just a few days before he passed. Although he wasn’t able to meet her, stories about the man her Paw Paw was will be told for all her life.

Chad is survived by his parents, Doug and Penny Trinkle; his wife, Carrie (Vargo); two siblings, Tammie (Kevin) Christian and Tony (Julie) Trinkle; his three beautiful children, Sam (Kyle) Gorny, Emily Trinkle, and Josh Trinkle; two granddaughters, Maya and Caroline Gorny; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Friends and family will gather at the Chelsea Community Fair Grounds to celebrate Chad’s life.

Visitation will be held at the Chelsea Fairgrounds Sports Barn on Monday, May 12, 2025, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., as well as on Tuesday, May 13, 2025 from 1-2 p.m.

Funeral Services will be held at the Chelsea Fairgrounds Sports Barn on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, 2:00 p.m., with Pastor Kurt Hutchens officiating.

Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea. A funeral luncheon will follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the family to assist with the care of his beloved family. Carrie, Samantha, Emily and Josh.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Timothy Morrison

Timothy Morrison, of Chelsea Michigan, age 68, passed away on Monday, May 5, 2025.

He was born on March 31, 1957 in Ann Arbor, MI, the son of Harold and Gloria (Phillips) Morrison. He graduated from Pioneer High School and was a member of the ice hockey team. He excelled in sports and played fast pitch softball for many summers managed by uncle, Jim Morrison. Tim worked as a plumber and was a member of the Plumber & Steamfitters Local UA190 along with the Loyal Order of the Moose, Fraternal Order Eagles and Sons of the American Legion. Tim was retired at the time of his passing and spent his summers in Michigan and winters in the Florida Keys with his girlfriend, Lynne. He enjoyed attending sporting events, fishing, golfing, and spending time with his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Harold in 1977, his brother, Joel in 2013, and his mother, Gloria in 2014. Surviving are his aunt, Nancy Morrison; cousins: Mike, Judy (Dennis), Gordie, Chuck (Kim), Steve (Chris), Linda (Mike), and Sue; sister-in-law, Kathy; niece, Susan (Doug), and nephew, Tony (Nicole).

A Memorial Celebration will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 1 pm - 4 p.m., at the Ann Arbor Moose Lodge 1253, 10160 Jackson Rd., Dexter, MI 48130.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Ann Arbor Moose Lodge 1253.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Robert E. Collier

Robert Edwin Collier, of Jackson, MI, age 96, passed away on May 6, 2025 at the Jackson County Medical Care Facility. He was born on April 8, 1929 in Chambersburg, PA, the son of John Edwin and Geraldine (Lear) Collier.

After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the US Airforce, where he served from 1947-1951. Following his military service, he worked as an air traffic controller in Cocoa Beach, FL, before relocating to Stockbridge, Michigan. He moved to Chelsea in 1981. Robert worked as a driver/mechanic at the Chrysler Proving Grounds. He retired in 1987 after 29 years of service. He also worked for many years at the Stockbridge Fire Department.

Robert thoroughly enjoyed his CB radio and made many connections talking with people everyday on the radio. He also enjoyed driving around in his car, picking up the daily newspaper and making his rounds.

Robert married Margaret (Jenkins), and she preceded him in death in 1999. He is survived by three children: Chris Collier of Haslett, Terri Tomlin of Picayune, Mississippi, and Scott (Tracy) Collier of Jackson; ten grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; and a brother, John Collier of Novi.

Visitation will be held at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home in Stockbridge on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 10-11 a.m. Burial will follow at Oaklawn Cemetery in Stockbridge, MI.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution, may do so to the American Legion Mackinder Glenn Post 510 or JaxNaz Church of Jackson.

Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Fay C. Mariani

Fay Catherine Mariani died peacefully at home surrounded by her children on May 5, 2025.

Born on July 9, 1926, in Rillton, Pennsylvania, Fay was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend.

In 1950, Fay married Lawrence John Mariani, and together they created a wonderful life raising four children: Blayne Mariani, Kolette Woloszynek, Rhonda Mariani (Marilyn Bradley), Meleah Mariani (Mark Fisher), and son-in-law Michael Raupp, all surviving. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence Mariani, her parents, August and Elizabeth (Frohnhofer) Bosetti, and her brother and sister-in-law, Elwyn and Lucille (Manack) Bosetti.

Fay created many fun experiences and memories in the lives of her five cherished grandchildren: Jared Abell, Brian Abell (Amy Fuller), Kara Abell (Hugh Miller), Chelsea Raupp (partner, Aaron Tinsley), and Nick Raupp (Ashley Bembenek). She was blessed with five great-grandchildren: Lincoln Abell, Grant Abell, Boone Abell, Remi Raupp (unborn) and Rayna Raupp. In addition to her immediate family, Fay’s extended family in Pennsylvania was incredibly important to her. Her cousins, nieces, and nephews were very dear to her.

She enjoyed canning spaghetti sauce and jelly, making homemade pasta, and playing euchre and bridge. After graduating from business college, Fay began her career as a telephone operator. During World War II, she contributed to the war effort by working in a defense factory, later transitioning to a role as a store manager in the 1970s. She lived most of her adult life in Ypsilanti and later made her home in Chelsea, Michigan.

A woman of many talents, Fay was a gifted seamstress with a particular passion for quilting. She also found joy in baking, solving crossword puzzles, visiting casinos, playing cards and board games.

Fay will be remembered for her humor, strength of character, and unconditional love for her family. She leaves behind a lifetime of creativity, kindness, and a strong moral compass that will live on in all who knew her.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, May 8, 2025, 11:00 a.m., at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea with Fr. David Stawasz presiding. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea Senior Center.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Tammy M. Ketko

Tammy Mary Ketko, age 81, of Gregory, Michigan, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2025.

She was born on February 29, 1944, in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Jess Lloyd Sr. and Lee Helen (Naples) Saxton. Tammy spent many years working as a dedicated real estate agent. She found great joy in farming, gardening, and canning. She also enjoyed shopping, and she had a love for animals and motorcycles. However, her greatest happiness came from the time she spent surrounded by her family, especially her grandchildren.

Tammy is survived by two daughters, Tammy (Glenn Ford) Gilyan, and Lisa (Ronald) Lindquist; five grandchildren, Benjamin Gilyan, Holly Hoch, Abigal Younger, Ryan (Julliet) Lindquist, and Jessica Lindquist (Mark) Koch; five great-grandchildren, Jamie (Jacob) Sherwood, Michael Tyler Lindquist, Mia Sherwood, and Liam Vrtis; a sister, Susan (Rodney Pendegraff) Saxton, a sister-in-law, Diane Saxton; as well as one niece and three nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Edwin Ketko Jr., and a brother, Jess Lloyd Saxton Jr.

A private service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.

Maudie M. Lafferty

Maudie M. Lafferty, of Grass Lake, Michigan, passed away at Chelsea Hospital on May 2, 2025. She was born the daughter of William T. and Oma L. Lafferty  on October 21, 1943 in Prestonsburg, Kentucky. 

Maudie married Adrian Harris in Toledo, Ohio, and he preceded her in death. She enjoyed cooking family dinners and having all the family together. Faith and family were very important to her.

Maudie is survived by her daughter, Tresa Mattson; grandsons, Adrian Dean (Amanda) Mattson, Alvin Douglas (Ilona) Mattson, Allen Daniel (Laura) Mattson; granddaughter, Krena (Sid) Seagraves; and 17 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Alice Harris. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Adrian Harris, and her son, Jerry Harris.

The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 7, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. A funeral service will take place at 1:00 p.m. with the Rev. Walker Harris officiating. Burial will follow at Sharon Twp. Cemetery in Manchester, MI.

Beverly A. Brackney

Beverly A. Brackney of Indianapolis, Indiana, formerly of Dexter, Michigan, passed away on January 4, 2025, at the age of 90.

A private service was held, with arrangements handled by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Faith in Action Inc., Chelsea, MI.

Shirley A. Chase

Shirley Arlene Chase, age 91, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2025, at her home at The Pines in Chelsea, Michigan.

Shirley was born in Topinabee, Michigan, to Herbert and Irene Whitehair. The best way to describe Shirley is that she lived a life rooted in faith, kindness, and service to others. She worked for many years in the Saline School System, where she touched countless lives through her quiet compassion and dedication. She was an active member of East Ovid United Brethren Church for many years, living her faith not only through words, but through acts of kindness. She enjoyed volunteering at Maple Lawn Medical Care Facility in Coldwater, MI and then at The Pines, delivering Meals on Wheels and always being the first to lend a hand to neighbors in need.

She was married to Jim Chase, who preceded her in death in 2001. Shirley has spent these years patiently waiting to reunite with the love of her life. Together, they raised three children: Deb Struble (Jim), Mike Chase (Diana), and Joe Chase (Tracy). Shirley’s love extended to her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom she treasured dearly.

She had a deep love for her Detroit Tigers, never missing a game — even scheduling her days around when they would play. (You would never want to call her just for a chat during a Tiger game!) Compassionate and non-judgmental, Shirley lived her life guided by a strong faith in God and a heart full of grace. She often worried more about being a burden than about her own needs, a true testament to her selfless spirit. Shirley was a model for living a spiritual life — not by preaching, but by leading humbly by example — and she will be truly missed by all who had the blessing of knowing her.

Service details and memorial instructions will be shared in the coming days.

Jerry D. Harris

Jerry Dean Harris, age 67, of Grass Lake, Michigan, passed away on Friday, April 25, 2025, at Trinity Health–Ann Arbor Hospital.

He was born on April 22, 1958, in Prestonsburg, Kentucky, the son of Adrian and Maudie (Lafferty) Harris. Jerry moved to the Grass Lake area 38 years ago from Romulus, Michigan, where he had lived previously. He dedicated 30 years of service to GM Hydramatic in Ypsilanti, retiring in 2006. In his free time, Jerry loved hunting, fishing, boating on Lake Erie, riding his motorcycle, and most of all, spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

On May 14, 1982, Jerry married Alice Charlene (Watson) in Romulus, MI. Together, they shared nearly 43 years of marriage. Jerry is survived by his wife, Alice; his daughter, Krena (Sid) Seagraves of Michigan Center; his mother, Maudie Harris of Grass Lake; three grandchildren, Ryan (Jenna), Crystal (Mark), and Jacob; and seven great-grandchildren: Aaden, Landyn, Brysen, Zoella, Liam, Rylynn, and Brooklynn. He was preceded in death by his father, Adrian Harris.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, 11:00 a.m., at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home with Rev. Walker Harris and Pastor Greg Burkeen officiating. Burial will follow at Sharon Twp. Cemetery in Manchester, MI.

Memorial contributions may be made to the National Rifle Association.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.