Dona J. (Minix) Sussex

Dona Jean (Minix) Sussex, age 71, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on September 19, 2026. She was born on June 18, 1955, in Stockbridge, Michigan, to Edwin and Earnestine (Salyer) Minix.

Dona grew up in Stockbridge, Michigan, where she raised her daughters. After marrying Tom Sussex, she and Tom moved to Jackson and later to Iowa.

Dona was a beautiful woman inside and out who loved her family deeply. She had a natural gift for creating beauty wherever she went and in everything she touched. She loved decorating, both the interiors and exteriors of homes. She had a special talent for taking old furniture and giving it new life by recreating and transforming its look.

She loved cooking and preparing wonderful meals for her family and friends. Dona especially enjoyed putting together beautiful and memorable dinner parties, always adding her own special finishing touches. She also had a great love for gardening and creating beautiful outdoor spaces. She was never afraid to take on a project herself, even learning how to form and pour cement to create a new look for her patio.

Dona loved shopping for others and had a special eye for finding things that would make someone or their home look beautiful. Her creativity, kindness, and desire to make things special will be remembered by all who knew and loved her.

Above all, Dona loved her family. She will be deeply missed by her husband, Tom Sussex; her daughters, Laura Hamlin, Jill Connolly (Eddie), Linda Sussex, and Jenny Sussex (Bounthahn); her grandchildren, Nathan, Opal, Ruby, Indi, and River; her sister, Carolyn; sisters-in-law, Ila, Mary, Lis, Teresa, and Regina; brothers-in-law, Jack, Pat, and Andy; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. As well as her lifelong friends Patty, Wilma, and Connie.

Dona was preceded in death by her parents, Edwin and Earnestine Minix; her son-in-law, Jeff Hamlin; siblings Paul, David, Sharon Minix, and Liz Gerber; brothers-in-law Jim Myer and Cliff Gerber; and sisters-in-law Leota Minix, and Madonna.

Her beautiful spirit and creativity will be remembered by all who knew her. Dona leaves behind a legacy of beauty, not only in the homes, gardens, furniture, meals, and special gatherings she created, but most importantly in the love she shared with her family. She will always be remembered for the special touch she brought to everything she did and everyone she loved.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Donald Herrick

Donald Herrick, 79, of Dexter, Michigan, passed away peacefully at his home in Lima Township on September 19, 2026, after spending his final days surrounded by family. Donald was born September 16, 1947, in Rochester, New York, the son of Frank and Doris (Kohler) Herrick. He earned a master’s degree in mathematics and electrical engineering from the University of Michigan and had a successful career spanning teaching, research, and project leadership.

Beyond living in Michigan and New York, his career and personal life also took him to Kentucky, Texas, Arizona, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Washington DC. He had a curious mind and a wide range of interests. He enjoyed cycling, reading, working puzzles, and riding motorcycles. He appreciated a good scotch and took pleasure in collecting fine pens, watches, and pocket knives. Above all, he cherished time with his family and close friends.

Donald is survived by his four children, Katherine Herrick of Massachusetts; Elizabeth (Bill) O’Brien of Northville; Etienne (Matthew) Sutton of Ann Arbor; and Alexandra Herrick of Saline; his sister, Lucille Straub; his nephew, Randy Straub; his niece, Tammy Singer all of New York; and his two grandchildren, Juliet and Billy.

A graveside service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at the Preserve at All Saints Cemetery in Waterford Township.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Patrick A. “Pat” Wright

Patrick Allen “Pat” Wright, age 75, of Stockbridge, Michigan, passed away on September 15, 2026, at Chelsea Hospital in Chelsea, Michigan.

Pat was born on April 7, 1951, to Norman and Evelyn (McAtee) Wright. On March 24, 1973, he married the love of his life, Linda Schirmer. Together, they moved from East Tawas to the Stockbridge area, where they raised their family and built a life filled with family, friends, laughter, and many good memories.

Pat was a hardworking man who took great pride in providing for his family. He spent 34 years working for the local phone company before retiring and starting his own excavating company PNR & Associates. He believed in working hard, staying busy, and doing things right.

Pat was a true social guy who never met a stranger. He loved a good drink, a funny story, and, perhaps most of all, a good opportunity to joke around with the people he loved. His sense of humor and quick wit brought laughter to countless conversations and gatherings, and those who knew him will always remember the stories, jokes, and laughter he shared.

In his younger years, Pat was an avid pool player—and some might say he was quite the pool shark. He enjoyed the friendly competition and the camaraderie that came with a good game. He was also an avid fisherman and enjoyed bowling and playing golf. Whether he was outdoors, playing a game, sharing a drink with friends, or simply spending time with his family, Pat knew how to enjoy the moment.

Pat was especially proud of his Irish-Scottish heritage. St. Patrick's Day was, without question, one of the most important days of the year to him. It was a day he celebrated with pride, laughter, good company, and, naturally, a good drink. His heritage was an important part of who he was, and he carried that pride with him throughout his life.

Pat was a devoted family man who cherished the time he spent with his family and friends. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and was a longtime and active member of Mackinder-Glenn Post 510. Pat was also a proud member of the Stockbridge Masonic Lodge 130. He was dedicated to supporting his fellow veterans and his community. He gave his time generously and valued the friendships and connections he made along the way.

Pat will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 53 years, Linda; his daughters, Amy (Scott) Howard of Stockbridge and Kelley (Alex) Panoff of South Lyon; and his grandchildren, Nicholas, Aidan and Logan. He is also survived by his brothers, Edward (Sue) Wright of Belleville and Paul (Mary) Wright of Tawas City, sister, JoAnn (Wright) Philips and many loving nieces and nephews.

Patrick was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Evelyn Wright; sister, Gail Hobart; and brother-in-law, Don Phillips.

Those who knew Pat will remember a hardworking man with a big heart, a quick sense of humor, a love for his family, and a gift for making people laugh. He leaves behind not only the family he loved so dearly, but also countless stories, friendships, and memories that will continue to bring smiles and laughter for years to come.

Visitation will be held at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge, on Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 4:00–6:00 p.m., and on Monday, September 28, 2026 from 10:00-11:00 a.m.

Funeral Services will be held on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge, with Pastor Jeff Howard officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Mackinder-Glenn Post 510 or the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Dawn M. Brown

Dawn M. Brown, age 33, of Stockbridge, Michigan, passed away on September 8, 2026, at Henry Ford Jackson Hospital in Jackson, Michigan.

Dawn was born on January 3, 1993, in Flint, Michigan, to James Craft and the late Lee Ann Brown. She lived in the area most of her life.

Dawn loved spending time with her family and friends. She had a deep passion for music and could often be found listening to her favorite songs. Dawn also had a love for makeup, getting dressed up, and expressing herself through her style and beauty. She loved watching her son do tricks on his dirt bike, and she especially enjoyed fishing with her family and friends.

Dawn will be remembered by her grandfather, Earnest Brown, who raised her; her children, Hunter and Rhyan; and her sisters, Emiley Brown of Jasper, Megan Whited of Stockbridge, Samantha Rosecrants of Jackson, Ariel Brown, and Shanne Williams of Ohio.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Lee Ann Brown; her aunt, Netty Hathaway; and her grandmother, Barbara Brown.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family, c/o Earnest Brown.

Arrangements are being handled by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Paula H. Bieske

Paula H. Bieske, age 81, of Chelsea, MI, passed away peacefully at her home on September 12, 2026.

Paula was born on December 16, 1944, in Lorain, Ohio, the daughter of Joseph and Mary (Szucs) Sadowski. On January 12, 1968, she married Daniel C. Bieske in Elyria, Ohio. They shared 46 years of marriage before his passing in 2014. Paula and Dan moved to Chelsea in 1975, where they made their home and raised their family.

Paula worked for many years in Shipping and Receiving at Thomson-Shore. She enjoyed collecting antiques, crocheting, and shopping on QVC Shopping Network, where she could always find something. She had a special love for dogs, especially Scottish Terriers, and took great joy in raising them along with her cat, Jaxon.

Paula is survived by her daughter, Carrie (Keith) Neibauer of Grass Lake, and step-children, Susan Steele of Ohio, and Carl (Sandy) Bieske of Tecumseh; 12 grandchildren, including her loving and devoted grandchildren, Kourtney (Ryan) Noll, K.J. (Leah) Neibauer, and Nathan (Crystal) Hallauer; 19 great-grandchildren; her sister, Kathleen Heeter of Jackson; and sisters-in-law, Nancy of Florida and Sara of Ohio.

In addition to her husband, Dan, Paula was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Delbert and Richard; her son, Christopher Bieske; her step-son-in-law, Andrew Steele; grandchild, Jennifer Bieske; and great-grandchild, Tyler Hallauer.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of one's choice.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

George Hamilton Holmes III

August 19, 1940 – July 17, 2026.

A lifelong lover of animals, Old Timey music, vintage cars and motorcycles, old farmsteads and NPR, George Hamilton Holmes III, aged 85 of Chelsea, MI, Hudson, MI and Cullowhee, NC, died peacefully on July 17th after an extended decline from dementia.

George was born in Asheville, NC to Helene (Solovioff) and George Hamilton Holmes Jr. After his first 11 years in Tryon, NC, the family moved to a small, self-sufficient farm outside Arden, NC. Growing up on a farm shaped him in a profound way; milking cows, caring for livestock, planting and harvesting vegetables. George appreciated all forms of wildlife; observing their habits, learning their ways, and having an uncanny ability to communicate with them.

George planted beautiful, bountiful vegetable gardens his entire adult life. He experimented with plants not often found in household gardens: peanuts, heirloom greasy green beans, and hops to use in his own beer brewing. His gardens were aesthetic and gastronomic beauties; knowledge of building healthy soil was matched by his joy in sharing the bounty of his gardens with family, neighbors, and organizations in his communities who met the needs of those less fortunate.

George served honorably in the US Air Force from 1959 to 1963. He earned a BA from University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and a MA in International Studies from Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH before beginning his 25+ year career in education in 1969 as an instructor at the newly opened Washtenaw Community College (WCC), in Ann Arbor, MI. An enthusiastic supporter and early adopter of educational technology, he was involved in various efforts to integrate technology into the student experience, most proudly establishing the first computerized testing center at WCC.

George loved music. From Dave Brubeck to the Grateful Dead to Old Timey traditional music featuring clawhammer-style banjo. He had a vast collection of banjos, mandolins, and guitars. He often purchased distressed instruments online or at estate sales and would lovingly and painstakingly repair. He donated many that were reborn at his hand.

He was an avid believer in weight training and cardiovascular fitness throughout his life; attending local gyms wherever he lived, continuing to jog for years following his dementia diagnosis.

Initially diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in 2019, George’s condition progressed to vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s. Since 2023, he resided in the thoughtful care of the Towsley Village Memory Care at the Chelsea Retirement Community in Chelsea, MI.

George was preceded in death by his father, George Hamilton Holmes Jr., and beloved mother, Helene, his adoring grandparents, George and Marie Holmes, and his sweet cats, Bullet and Herb. He is survived by his loving partner of over 25 years, Marianne Hollis, both of his younger sisters, Helene (Dodie) Holmes Haase and the Rev. Jean Holmes, his three children: Amanda Holmes Connelly (Jeff), Kathleen Walker Holmes, and John Shannon (Mikaela Davis), and his grandchildren, Luca Tarasow (Hugh Kennington), Mike Tarasow, Roguen Brown, Truxton Brown, and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026 in the Towne Center and Chapel at Towsley Village (on the CRC campus) from 2-4:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations be made to WEMU radio or Michigan Public Radio.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Joseph Wesolowski Jr.

Joseph Wesolowski Jr., age 74, of Grass Lake, MI, formerly of Chelsea, MI, passed away on September 12, 2026, at his home.

Joe was born on October 15, 1951, in Flint, MI, the son of Joseph Sr. and Stella (Sitko) Wesolowski. He served as a police officer for the City of Ann Arbor for 28 years before retiring in 2001. Joe was a hero to those who knew and loved him.

A longtime resident of Chelsea, Joe was a faithful member of St. Mary Catholic Church, where he served with the Knights of Columbus as a past Grand Knight. He was extensively involved in his community as a member of the Ann Arbor Eagles, past President of the Ann Arbor Moose Lodge 1253, a 4-H Leader, and a member of the Chelsea Community Fair Board. He enjoyed deer and bird hunting, and operated the True North Jerky store for seven years.

Joe is survived by two daughters, Stephanie Wesolowski of Parker, CO and Jillian Wesolowski of Kalamazoo, MI; three grandchildren, DeAndre Crosby, Scott Thorn, and Erik Thorn; and two brothers, Mitchell (Mary) Wesolowski of Lynchburg, Virginia and Alexis Wesolowski of Clio, MI. He was preceded in death by the mother of his children, Roxanna Hawker.

Visitation will be held at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Sunday, September 20, 2026, from 5-7 p.m., with a Rosary at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will also take place at St. Mary Catholic Church on Monday, September 21, 2026 from 10-11 a.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, on Monday, September 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner presiding. Burial will take place at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea. A luncheon will follow the graveside service at the Ann Arbor Moose Lodge 1253, 10160 Jackson Road, Dexter.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Deloris "Jean" Tackett

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Deloris Jean Tackett, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, at the Henry Ford Hospice Home in Jackson, Michigan on September 14, 2026.

Born in the gentle hills of Brainard, Kentucky on April 12, 1944, Jean was the beloved daughter of Venson and Myrtle Prater (nee Cole), who preceded her in death, along with her son, Tim, and brother, Don.

Jean's life was a tapestry of rich experiences and heartfelt connections. She found immense joy in the company of her family and friends, whose lives she touched with her warmth and sense of humor. Her belief in God provided comfort and strength throughout the years, guiding her during both joyful and challenging times.

In her professional journey, Jean embraced diverse roles, with particular fondness for her time as an armed security guard and a floral designer. Her creativity and courage shone through in these careers, reflecting her dynamic spirit and dedication.

Jean's love for crafting was a testament to her creative soul, and her collections of angels and dolls, with their 400 unblinking ceramic eyes, were cherished treasures that reflected her nature as a collector. She adored spending time with her family and friends, leaving behind a legacy of love, cherished memories, and an absolute army of vinyl, porcelain, and resin companions.

She will be greatly missed by her son, Tom, her daughter, Michelle, her brother, Doug, her grandchildren Justin, Kevin, Harlee, and Dalton, several great-grandchildren, and other close family members and friends.

Visitation will be held at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, located at 424 E. Main St, Stockbridge, on Thursday, September 17, 2026, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., and on Friday, September 18, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jean's life on Friday, September 18, 2026, at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, with a service at 11:00 a.m.

As we gather to honor Jean, family and friends are encouraged to wear purple, Jean's favorite color. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please do not buy any more dolls. Seriously. We don’t have the room.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Henry Ford Hospice Home. Their extreme care and thoughtfulness provided immense comfort during Jean's final days, making her journey more peaceful.

Memorial contributions may be made to Henry Ford Hospice.

Joseph Zachary Tekieli

Joseph Zachary Tekieli, age 33, of Stockbridge, Michigan, passed away on September 8, 2026. Joey was born on February 10, 1993, in Garden City to Robin (Sparkman) Tekieli and the late Joseph Stanley Tekieli. Although he was born in Garden City, Joseph had lived in Stockbridge since age five.

Joey was known for his kindness, generosity, and infectious smile that lit up every room he entered. He was a graduate of Michigan State University. He was a hard worker who loved his career, working in laboratories, testing soil and water samples to help keep people safe. Above all, he was a devoted son and family member who took pride in caring for his mother and being there for those he loved.

Joey loved tabletop gaming, including Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: The Gathering, and Warhammer. He was an avid collector and painter of gaming miniature figures. It was a common sight in his home to see him and all his friends gathered around the kitchen table, with dice, miniatures, and cards scattered in all directions, alongside piles of soda cans and snacks. He loved console video games as well as retro gaming on a high-powered gaming PC he built himself.

He was extremely passionate about music. He was a dedicated vinyl collector who enjoyed going to concerts with friends and family. He deeply loved his companion cats, Missy and Nilla, and his recent kittens, Cara and Winnie. He looked forward to regular camping trips with his friends. He sincerely appreciated the peace, quiet, and privacy of life in Stockbridge. Some of Joey’s most meaningful moments were the all-night conversations he shared with his father about the state of the world and how it could be made better.

Joey is survived by his mother, Robin Tekieli; his brothers, Brian Klovski and Billy Lebring (Melissa); his niece, Beatrix Pemberton Klovski; his uncles, Michael Tekieli and Danny Sparkman (Debra); his aunt, Linda Sparkman; his great-uncle, Ed Tekieli (Del); and numerous cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Stanley Tekieli.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea. The family will receive friends beginning at 1:00 p.m. until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Joseph’s memory to NAMI Lansing to support mental health services: https://secure.namilansing.org/forms/donate.

Arrangements are being handled by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea, MI.

Jackie A. Schwerin

Jackie A. Schwerin, age 87, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2026, at Chelsea Hospital in Chelsea, Michigan. He was born on December 6, 1938, in Auburn Hills, Michigan, to Frank and Gladys Schwerin. Jackie was the youngest of 16 children.

On June 27, 1965, he married Anna M. (Smeltz) Schwerin. Together, they shared 59 years of marriage before her passing in 2024. Jackie worked for many years on the assembly line at General Motors.

Jackie was known for his large garden and taking great pride in caring for his yard. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting rabbits and deer. Jackie was also an excellent bowler, spending many Monday nights bowling in the Senior House League. He enjoyed playing euchre and spending time with his family. Jackie was a dedicated family man who could always be counted on to step up and help whenever his family needed him.

Jackie is survived by his sons, Jack (Amy) Schwerin of Grass Lake and Jeff Schwerin of Ann Arbor; and his grandchildren, Anna and Matt. In addition to his wife, Anna, he was preceded in death by all 15 of his siblings.

Visitation will be held at Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Burial will take place the following morning at 9:00 a.m. at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.