Savanah R. Zimmerman

Savanah Rose Zimmerman, age 17, of Stockbridge, MI, died unexpectedly on November 25, 2025.

She left this world far too soon, leaving behind a glow that will never fade. She had the most beautiful smile—one that could light up any room—and a silly, joyful personality that made life brighter for everyone around her. Savanah adored her older sisters, Brooke and Summer, and her older brother, Braylon. She cherished every moment spent with them.

Her love for animals was as big as her heart, and she found joy in baking, cleaning, and keeping things tidy. She also loved to cook, go shopping, and hang out with her friends. Whether she was whipping up something sweet or settling in for a scary movie, Savanah brought warmth, laughter, and love into every space she touched. Her memory will forever be a reminder of the gentle, vibrant spirit she shared with the world.

She was born in Garden City, MI on September 23rd, 2008 to Heather Martin and Kyle Zimmerman. She attended Stockbridge High School, recently obtained her driver’s license, and had the great opportunity working at Rob’s Pizza in town. Savanah had been living with her Aunt Karlee, Uncle Brad, cousin Xavier, Tessa, and Hunter in Stockbridge.

Savanah is beloved by her mother, Heather Martin; Grandfather Donald Martin, Grandmother Kathy Martin, Uncle Donald Martin, Uncle Bruce Martin; father, Kyle Zimmerman; siblings: Brooke, Summer, and Braylon Zimmerman; Papa William Zimmerman, Mimi Sandra Samuels; Great-Grandparents William and Norma Zimmerman; Uncle Brad and Aunt Karlee Zimmerman, Uncle Keenan Zimmerman, Uncle Robert and Rhonda Zimmerman, and so many loving cousins.

Visitation will be held at the Crossroads Community Church, 950 S. Clinton St., Stockbridge, on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, from 5-7 p.m., as well as on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, from 10-11 a.m.

Funeral services will be held at the Crossroads Community Church on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at 11:00 a.m.

Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.

Thelma Rushlow

Thelma Rushlow, age 86, of Leslie, MI, passed away on November 23, 2025, at Faith Haven Senior Care Centre in Jackson, Michigan.

Born on June 13, 1939, in Pyramid, Kentucky, Thelma was the daughter of Bill and Mintie (Adkins) Thornsbury. She was raised in Pyramid, KY before moving to Michigan, where she graduated from Dansville School. She later married Ronald Rushlow in Wyandotte, Michigan, and together they made their home in Bunkerhill, MI, where they raised their son, Joseph.

Known fondly throughout the community as the “Candy Lady of Bunkerhill,” Thelma shared her warmth through the treats she created. Her fudge, peanut butter fudge, and cookies were famous during Halloween and Christmas.

Thelma is survived by her son, Joseph; two grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her siblings.

A Memorial Service will be held at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home on Friday, December 5, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. with Lawrence Arnette officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. A private burial will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery in Leslie.

Memorial contributions may be made to Faith Haven Senior Care Centre in Jackson, Michigan.

Shirley J. Garcia

Shirley Jeane Garcia (née McRill), age 90, of Manchester, Michigan, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2025, in Adrian, Michigan, surrounded by her family and under the compassionate care of Hospice of Lenawee.

Born on January 31, 1935, in East St. Louis, Illinois, Shirley lived a long and meaningful life centered around her deep love for family. Shirley was the devoted wife of Rupert R. Garcia. Their marriage spanned an extraordinary 72 years—a testament to their enduring bond and shared commitment.

Together they raised four children: Rupert (Joy), Michael (Rose), Stephen (Sharon), and Kathy. Her legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Michael, Philip, Rachel, Mary Beth, Matthew, Annie, Miranda, and Abigail; and her great-granddaughter, Carmen. She is also lovingly remembered by her sister, Deborah Ann Arango, many nieces and nephews, and by everyone whose lives were touched by her steady kindness and comforting presence. Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Marie McRill; her brother, Chuck; and sisters Ruth Ann and Barbara.

Shirley filled her home with small comforts and familiar rhythms. She had a gentle steadiness that brought a sense of calm to all around her. Throughout her life, Shirley found joy and purpose in caring for those she loved. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister whose warmth and presence were the heart of her home.

Family remained the cornerstone of her life—a value she upheld with unwavering dedication. Shirley enjoyed the challenges of puzzles and word searches, and she found joy in playing games with her grandchildren at the kitchen table. Those memories, filled with laughter, friendly competition, and her warm, gentle smile will be remembered forever.

In addition to her devotion to family, Shirley worked at various locations. An ice cream store, a nursing home, and then at Meijer, where she retired after ten years of service. Her dedication to her jobs reflected her strong work ethic and steady presence.

Shirley’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. May her life be remembered with gratitude, and may her memory bring comfort to all who mourn her passing.

A Memorial Gathering to honor Shirley’s life will be held at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, located at 901 North Main Street, Chelsea, MI, on Saturday, November 29, 2025, from 12:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m., followed by a service at 2:00 p.m.

Jamie E. Zick

Jamie Elaine Zick, born April 8, 1977 to Ed and Lori Zick, in Lansing, Michigan, died at age 48 on November 23, 2025.

Jamie grew up in Lansing in her toddler years and then moved with the family to Stockbridge. She was a very fascinating girl, strong willed, very clever, and absolutely a Spitfire. She loved books, music, swimming, and her sisters Leah and Julie. She was very busy with her animals- cats, dogs, and bunnies. At age 10, she even had a horse that she entered in the Ingham County Fair. She loved reading and often had several books going at the same time. She excelled in school, becoming one of the top in her grade. She loved playing sports- basketball, softball, volleyball, cheerleading, and even dance.

At the tender age of 13, she was diagnosed with a brain tumor. At first it was not able to be removed. After many weeks of radiation, Jamie was declining, and she was admitted into hospice. God had other plans. God was not done with Jamie. A miracle was at the hand of God, things changed and surgery was performed. Jamie recovered all summer in the hospital, returning to school in the fall. Jamie was able to get her high school diploma.

Life was not easy for Jamie. She also had a mental illness that was severe. Time after time, you could see her faith in the Lord. Her strength and resilience was unwavering. Jamie never was able to be employed, yet she worked for the Lord. She would sing her Christian music over and over. It gave her comfort, yet she was witnessing to others about her love of the Lord. She loved going to church and singing her songs. She struggled in life, yet the Lord used her for his purposes.

She was a loving aunt and spent many hours with her nieces and nephews at home and at one of her favorite places, the family cottage at Houghton Lake. She touched people in ways that we will never know. She will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Jamie is survived by her mother, Lori Zick; sisters, Leah Dalton (Mike) and Julie Weare (Justin); nieces, Kaylee Dalton, Maddie Dalton, Allie Dalton, and Chloe Weare; nephews, Jacob Dalton, Zachary Weare, Lucas Weare, and Josh Weare. She was preceded in death by her father, Ed Zick; and grandparents, Norman and Beulah Jacobs, and Thomas and Margaret Zick.

Visitation will be held at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home on Friday, November 28, 2025, from 5-7 p.m., as well as on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor Josh Lilly officiating. A private burial will be held at Plainfield Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice House of Mid-Michigan in Lansing or CHUM Therapeutic Riding in Dansville.

Norman E. Wanty

Norman E. Wanty, of Ann Arbor, MI, passed away at the Arbor Manor in Spring Arbor, MI on November 22, 2025.

He was born the son of Mark W. and Calista (Butts) Wanty on September 1, 1933 in Ypsilanti, MI. Norman married Bonnie Wicks on August 7, 1976, and she preceded him in death.

Norman was a proud member of the United States Army and served with a missile battalion. He worked for the City of Ann Arbor Water Purification Plant for over 35 years after his discharge from the Army.  Norman loved to walk in the outdoors and enjoyed nature. He enjoyed taking pictures of historical sites and the presidents’ burial tombs.

He is survived by his sons, Steve (Cathy) Pendell, Tracy (Dana) Pendell, and Maurice Pendell; and his sister, Janet Pendell. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his sister, Barbara; brother, Mark Jr.; sister-in-law, Betty; niece, Kathy; nephew, Christopher Pendell; and brother-in-law, Royal Pendell.

A gathering of friends and family will be held at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, from 1-3 p.m. A private entombment will take place at Arborcrest Cemetery. 

Brenda K. Stockwell

Brenda Kay Stockwell, age 77, of Ann Arbor, Michigan, went to be with her Lord and Savior on November 18, 2025.

Brenda was born in Detroit, Michigan on December 21, 1948, to Forrest and Alyce Goll. She grew up with her twin, Michael, her older sister, Shirrell Fischer, her younger twin sisters, Barb Herrst and Beverly Lorenze, and her youngest sister, Tammy Branscheidel. Her parents and three siblings, Mike, Bev, and Barb, preceded her in death.

On May 10, 1969, Brenda married Edward Stockwell, building a life together for over 56 years in the Ann Arbor area. Brenda and Ed welcomed a daughter, Michelle Antunes (Tony) early in their marriage, and in 2007, on their 38th wedding anniversary, adopted a daughter, Haley Powell (Nathan).

Brenda earned degrees from both Washtenaw Community College and Eastern Michigan University and spent many years serving children through the ministry at Crossroads Church and Solid Rock Bible Church, both in South Lyon, MI, and NorthRidge Church in Plymouth, MI. She also enjoyed horse riding, participating in horse shows, and doing stained glass. Her love language was cooking and baking for her family and friends. For the last 10 years, Brenda and Ed were snowbirds, spending the winter at Light & Life Park in Lakeland, FL, making many friends near and far.

Visitation will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Monday, November 24, 2025 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., as well as at the church on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Funeral services will be held at the NorthRidge Church, 49555 North Territorial Road, Plymouth, on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor Wayne Kurtycz officiating. Burial will take place at Washtenong Memorial Park in Ann Arbor.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be sent in Brenda’s honor to Arbor Hospice, NorthRidge Church, or Florida Light & Life Park, 5604 Deeson Rd, Lakeland, FL 33810 .

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

David R. Kirk

David Robert Kirk, age 76, of Manchester, MI, passed away at the Henry Ford Jackson Hospital on November 13, 2025. He was born the son of Robert F. and Mary M. (Rose) Kirk on October 28, 1949 in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

David was a remarkable man. His life was shaped by a childhood accident that left him with disabilities, but he never let that limit him or discourage him. He went on to live another 65 years of a rich life, one in which he played many roles. He was a lifelong resident of Manchester. He was self-employed and owned an excavating company for many years. Most of all he was a great family man, and a loving son, brother, and uncle.

David is survived by his siblings, Gretchen Connors, Kathleen (Homer) Rose, and Maureen (Dennis) Rompasky. David is also survived by his nieces and nephews: James Connors, Sarah (William) Williams, Robert Connors, Renee (Michael) Peterson, Douglas Rompasky, Derek (Maneewan) Rompasky, and Rachel Rose; as well as his great-nieces and great-nephews, Brayden and Aurora Williams, Christopher Connors, Cameron and Jackson Peterson, Orion Rompasky, and Matthew and Adam Jones. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant sister, Theresa and his brother-in-law William Connors

Mass of Christian Burial will be prayed at St. Mary Catholic Church in Manchester on Monday, November, 24, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. with Fr. Gerald Gawronski officiating.

The family will receive friends at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, on Sunday, November 23, 2025, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., with a Rosary at 7:30 p.m.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Dutchmen Fire Firefighters Association.

James A. "Jim" Lilliefors

James A. “Jim” Lilliefors, age 67, of Ann Arbor, Michigan, passed away on November 13, 2025, at Trinity Health Ann Arbor Hospital.

He was born on December 8, 1957, in Lansing, Michigan, the son of Alvan and Elizabeth (Densmore) Murphy. He grew up in Saginaw and then earned his bachelor's degree at Michigan State University. He worked as a senior payroll implementation analyst for many years.

On June 9, 2001, Jim married Tracey M. (Bolling) in Brighton, MI, and they enjoyed 24 years of marriage. They had lived in Ann Arbor where they made their home for the past twenty years. Jim found great joy in time spent outdoors. Whether boating, fishing, camping, or hiking, he appreciated any opportunity to be in nature. He also enjoyed golfing and riding his motorcycle.

Jim is survived by his wife, Tracey; two daughters, Erin B. Lilliefors of Dexter and Kelsea (Jeff) Bush of Grass Lake; two grandchildren, Ezra and Charlotte; and his siblings, Michael Lilliefors of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Lori (Charles) Areford of Oregon. He was preceded in death by his parents, and adopted-father, Richard Lilliefors.

A celebration will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Huron Valley.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Dorothy J. Bertolino

Dorothy Jean Bertolino, age 90, of Chelsea, MI, formerly of Indiana, PA, passed away on November 10, 2025, in Chelsea, Michigan. She was born on February 9, 1935, in Kittanning, PA, the daughter of Gordon and Anna Marie (King) Hidinger.

Dorothy first married Gilbert Mason and spent her early years in Pennsylvania, where she raised her family and worked for Pennsylvania Bell. Later, she married William Schachter, and they moved to Michigan in 1979. They lived in Stockbridge for many years, where she worked as a supervisor for Alltel in Stockbridge. After Bill’s passing, Dorothy returned to Indiana, PA, where she met and married the love of her life, “Sam” Bertolino. Dorothy and Sam shared many wonderful years together before his passing in 2015.

Dorothy loved cooking and baking for family and friends, and she found joy in creative writing. She also enjoyed arts and crafts. In 2019, Dorothy moved back to Michigan to be closer to her family, where she spent her final years.

Dorothy is survived by four children, Jeanne (Bill) Snyder, Mark Mason, Marty Mason, and Matthew (Tammy) Mason; seven grandchildren, David (Chrissy) Mason, Derek (Susan) Mason, Christopher (Allison) Snyder, Ben Snyder, Audrey Mason, Maxwell Mason, and Michael Mason; six great-grandchildren, Brandon and Ashley Mason, Emma and Lucy Mason, and Leah and Owen Snyder. She is also survived by her brother, James (Jean) Hidinger; her niece, Christy (Jason) Wright; and two great-nieces.

She was preceded in death by a son, Michael Mason.

A private service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Faith in Action, Chelsea.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Marvin W. Cook Jr.

Marvin Woodrow Cook Jr., age 85, of Stockbridge, Michigan, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025, at Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice Home in Jackson.

Marvin always said, "I'm an Arkansas Boy, born on the Judd Hill Plantation on the kitchen table!"

Marvin was born February 16, 1940 in Trumann, Arkansas, the son of Marvin Sr. and Hettie (Bushong) Cook. Living many places growing up, his family eventually settled in Dansville, MI, where he went to high school and graduated with the Class of 1958.

On November 3, 1961, Marvin married Betty Jean (Salyer), whom he lovingly called “Jeanne.” Together they built their life and made their home in the Stockbridge area for over 60 years. He worked for 32 years as a driver/mechanic at Chrysler Proving Grounds, retiring in 1998. He enjoyed working with his hands, and was good at working on transmissions, as well as general carpentry and woodworking. Marvin was known for his friendly, social nature, and he loved to talk. He was a member of the Stockbridge Lions Club, where he enjoyed calling Bingo for many years. He also called Bingo at the American Legion and the Stockbridge Athletic Boosters. Most people will remember him saying, “Any more Bingos! Any more Bingos!” Above all, Marvin loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them.

Marvin is survived by his wife of 64 years Jeanne; three children, Terry (George) Wireman of Stockbridge, Tammy (Ken) Sanchez of Stockbridge, and Audra (Jamie) Salyer of Munith; six grandchildren: Malory Wireman, Kayla (Curtis) Fletcher, James (Shane) Wireman, Samantha Sanchez, Abbey Salyer, and Gavin Salyer; and two great-grandchildren: Amelia and Bennie Fletcher; his siblings: Judy (Jon) Petoskey of Pontiac, Barbara (Warren) Petoskey of Petoskey, Melvin Curton Jr. of Stockbridge, and Brenda (Walt) Meyer of Pontiac. He was preceded in death by his parents, his stepfather, Melvin Curton Sr., and his sister, Linda (Ron) Berry.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at the Mackinder-Glenn Post #510 American Legion in Stockbridge from 1:00–3:00 p.m., with a short prayer service at 3:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Stockbridge Lions Club.

Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.