It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Charles Henry Borton, who left this world on July 27, 2026, at the age of 75. Born on August 24, 1950, in Alma, Michigan, Charles was a cherished husband, father, brother, and friend.

Charles was a devoted bus driver at Vestaburg School, where he lovingly transported generations of students. Known for his talkative and quirky personality, he brought joy and laughter to everyone he met. Charles loved sharing stories and laughter with those around him, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts of those he encountered. He enjoyed fishing in the quiet lakes of Michigan and took great pride in his gardening.

Charles is survived by his beloved wife, LuAnn Borton, and their three sons: Josh (Shannon) Borton, Jeremy (Diane) Borton, and Jason (Jennifer) Borton. He is also survived by his sister, Ruth Schrupp. He will be profoundly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Charles was blessed with 7 grandchildren, Jennifer, Kendra, Shalie, Tabatha, Jaylynne, Cailyn, and Charlotte. Along with 5 great grandchildren.

Funeral services for Charles will be held on August 4, 2026, at 11AM at Janowicz Family Funeral Home 9977 Howard City Edmore Rd, Lakeview, MI. A visitation for Charles will take place on August 3, 2026, from 5pm-7pm, at Janowicz Family Funeral Home-Lakeview. Family and friends are invited to join in a celebration of his life, remembering his love of family, laughter, and the simple joys he cherished. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the family, to reprieve some of the costs of services.

Charles's spirit will live on in the memories of his family and friends, and his laughter will echo in their hearts forever.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Verda Borton, daughter, Rachel Borton, and brother, Steven Borton.

Joseph James Whyte Jr., 91, of Reed City, MI, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 29, 2026. He was born August 10, 1934, in Detroit, MI, the son of Joseph James Whyte Sr. and Roxie (Glatfelter) Whyte.

Joe was a self-employed contractor who dedicated his life to the construction industry. Even after his retirement, he continued using his talents to build and improve local churches, a reflection of his unwavering faith and servant’s heart.

A proud veteran, Joe honorably served his country in the United States Army Airborne. Throughout his life, he was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing, and riding snowmobiles. A gifted athlete, he excelled in many sports and embraced an active lifestyle.

Joe was a devoted member of Liberty Baptist Church in Reed City, where he faithfully served and was deeply involved in the life of the church. His passion for the Lord guided every aspect of his life. He was a natural leader, a devoted family man, known for being a little stubborn, very frugal, and steadfast in his convictions. Above all, Joe cherished the time he spent with his family and was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. His family finds comfort in knowing that Joe is now rejoicing in the presence of his Savior.

Joe is survived by his wife, Ann Whyte; his children, Joseph (Nancy) Whyte III, George (Beth) Whyte, Samantha (Cam) Shanks, Michael (Kayla) McCreery, and Liz (Skyler) House; brother, Timothy (Karen) Whyte; grandchildren, Jillian Whyte (Miles), Stephanie (Darrell) Putansu, Talley (Michelle) Whyte, Megan (Matthew) Delgado, Chelsea (Wesley) Dennard, Holly Whyte, Joey (Camilla) Whyte, and Courtney Whyte; granddaughter-in-love, Rachel (Jeremy) Smith; many great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife Louise Whyte; sisters, Roxie (Fred) Sinclair, Mary (Russ) Deardorff, and Margaret (Bob) Dawdy; and sister-in-law, Sue Whyte.

A memorial service celebrating Joe’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Liberty Baptist Church in Reed City. Joe’s family will greet friends beginning at 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service. He will be laid to rest at Mount Hope Cemetery in Mecosta.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Liberty Baptist Church in Reed City or Oakland Baptist Church in Novi, Michigan.

Vicki Suzanne Morris passed away peacefully in the presence of family on July 25, 2026 at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids, MI. Vicki was born on July 19, 1943 to the late and infamous Warden “Rusty” Rustemeyer and the audacious Launa Hammett. So began a life defined by a spirit of love, family, generosity and compassion that would enrich and inspire all who were fortunate to know her.

Her accomplishments were many. She graduated from Union High School in Grand Rapids in 1962 with honors, where she met the great love of her life and husband of 63 years, Dale Morris. They eloped and were married in Reno, NV on September 28, 1962. After an adventurous year living in San Francisco, Vicki and Dale returned to Michigan with young Dale Jr. in tow in 1963. Vicki worked at the local GM Fisher Body plant to help earn money to attend college. She graduated in 1972, earning her bachelor’s degree in philosophy while raising two young boys. Matthew was born in 1966. Vicki was part of the first women’s graduating class, earning a master’s degree in philosophy from Notre Dame University in 1974. While at Notre Dame, she took Karate lessons with her roommate, Chacha, from Mexico City, earning a brown belt. She followed this up with a law degree from Cooley Law School in Lansing in 1977, declining a full ride scholarship to attend Notre Dame Law to be closer to her family. She went on to open a family law practice championing the rights of women and children in many divorce and custody cases. With a strong pull and talent toward civic duty, she ran and became the first woman elected to the Wyoming City Council in 1983.

In the 1980’s, Vicki and Dale left both their business careers behind for a new life as exotic animal (mostly llamas) ranchers in the mountains of Colorado. In Colorado they adopted and united four young children that were natural siblings. Vicki saw the need for a high level of education and home school for all four kids! In the 1990’s Vicki and the family returned to Michigan, moving to Big Rapids where she would open a family law clinic and spend the rest of her days.

After the tragic loss of the youngest of the 4 adopted siblings, Eric, at 18 years of age, Vicki and Dale adopted their daughter, Destiny, who has been the source of endless pride and joy in her later years. Vicki and Dale have been foster parents to countless children who still to this day call her Mom and whose kids call her Granny.

Vicki will also be remembered for her steadfast and passionate care of our animal friends. She was a lifelong vegetarian on moral grounds long before it was socially acceptable or convenient. Her home has always been open to any and all species in need to the inspiration and annoyance of those who loved her.

She leaves behind nine mostly rescued or adopted dogs and cats who are the last of a very long line of such friendships that she cherished greatly.

Vicki Morris lived a long and happy life in service to the principles of equal rights, justice, integrity, and above all, love. She is sorely missed by all who loved her and came to know her.

She is survived by her husband, Dale; her children: Dale Jr, Matthew (Regina), Robert, Jessica, Jacquie, and Destiny; siblings: John Rustemeyer, Margo Arnold, Thomas Sumner, and many grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her siblings: Rita Jo Perkins and Jennifer Hammett.

As a last act of kindness, Vicki was happy to donate her liver as an organ donor upon her passing to a grateful soul in need. Instead of gifts, donations in honor of Vicki may be sent to the Gift of Life Foundation or the Animal Rescue Coalition of Mecosta County.

A memorial service will take place Saturday, August 1, 2026 at Daggett Gilbert Funeral Homes in Big Rapids at 4:00 PM. Visitation will begin at 2:00 PM. The reception will follow immediately after the service until 7:00 PM at Cranker’s Restaurant and Brewery in Big Rapids.

Bonnie Eva Yarhouse beloved, wife, mother and grandmother, passed away at the Clare Hospital on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at the age of 88. Bonnie was born on January 16, 1938 in Clare, to Rex and Marie (Darnell) Lloyd. In 1955, Bonnie graduated from Evart High School and on September 3rd, of that year, she married Vernie A. Yarhouse Jr. at the Methodist Church in Sears, where they made their home and raised their family.

Bonnie was a Title I Teacher’s Aide at Evart Elementary where she cared for, nurtured, and helped educate children over numerous years. When she was younger she enjoyed making crafts, crocheting, and cross stitching. She spent many years raising her flower gardens, visiting antique shops, and making her notorious strawberry jam. Bonnie was often found doing a Sudoku puzzle, and she loved making her Christmas gift baskets for her family.

Bonnie’s greatest joy was spending time doting on her children and grandchildren. The love she gave to everyone and positive outlook on life set a Godly example to those around her.

Her caring and joyful spirit will be missed by the family who survives her, this includes: children, Donald (Eva Spence) Yarhouse and Debra (Paul) Schmidt; sisters, Joyce Hillier and Vonnie (Art) Lloyd; six grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, one great grand pup, two great great grandchildren with one on the way and numerous nieces, nephews extended family and friends.

Bonnie was preceded in death by: her husband, Vernie "Pete"; daughter-in-law, Lana Yarhouse; three siblings, Ronald (Connie) VanOrder, Joan (Robert) Goldammer and Donald VanOrder; brother-in-law, Harold Hillier and special friend, Paul Cruikshank.

Memorial contributions in Bonnie’s name can be made to the Sears Church of God, where they were pillars of the church. Funeral services will take place Friday, July 31st at 2 PM at the Sears Church of God with visitation an hour prior. Bonnie will be laid to rest next to Vernie at Forest Hill Cemetery in Evart. Condolences can be left online at www.coreyfuneralhome.com.

Kevin Horstman, 64, of Barryton, passed away on Thursday, July 23, 2026. He was born on October 13, 1961, in Lansing, the son of Jerry and Marjorie (Franks) Horstman.

Kevin worked in manufacturing during his early years and was, above all else, a proud family man. He treasured the time he spent with those he loved and found his greatest joy in being surrounded by his children and grandchildren.

An outdoorsman at heart, Kevin enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time in nature. He loved tinkering on vehicles with the boys, always willing to lend a hand or tackle a new project. He also enjoyed playing fetch with the dogs and appreciated the simple moments that made life meaningful.

He is survived by his children, Christina (Steven) Riley, Leon Horstman, and Kevin Horstman Jr. (Breanna); his grandchildren, Levi and Kevin; along with extended family members and many friends who will miss him dearly.

Cremation has taken place, and memorial services will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are in the care of Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Homes in Barryton. To leave a memory or share a condolence, please visit www.daggettfuneral.com.

Neva Mae Metcalf, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2026, in Fort Myers, Florida, at the age of 99.

Neva was born on May 21, 1927, in Big Rapids, Michigan, to Gerald and Elizabeth Davenport.

She will be lovingly remembered for her wonderful cooking, especially her famous cinnamon rolls, and the beautiful, crocheted afghans she made for her family. She enjoyed playing cards and games, watching game shows, and trying her luck at the slot machines. Some of her happiest times were spent at Six Lakes, where many treasured family memories were made. She loved fishing and was known for making the best fried fish, a family favorite whether it was served for dinner or even breakfast.

Neva is survived by her sister, Sharon Green of Lake City, Michigan; her daughters, Marie White of Fort Myers, Florida, and Peggy Rex of Venice, Florida; her son, Robert Metcalf of Lakeview, Ohio; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren, all of whom will forever cherish the love, laughter, and memories she shared with them.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Metcalf, in 1990, her daughter Cynthia Freeman, her brother Richard Davenport, and sisters, Irene Hurst, Marion Metcalf, Virginia Ford, Jackie Watkin and Dorothy Ciulis.

A funeral service for Neva will be held on Monday, August 3, 2026, at Janowicz Family Funeral Home in Edmore, Michigan beginning at 11:00 AM. Family will welcome and greet guests at 10:00 AM until the time of service. Neva will be laid to rest at Hillcrest Cemetery in Six Lakes, Michigan immediately following the funeral service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the charity of your choice in Neva's honor.

Darrel "David" Miller, age 81, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 22, 2026.

Born on December 20, 1944, David was the cherished son of the late Darrel R. and Carolyn L. (Stone) Miller. He grew up learning the values of hard work and family dedication, bonding closely with his brother, the late Stephan R. Miller.

Following his graduation from Creston High School, David pursued higher education at Davenport University before earning his bachelor’s degree from Ferris State University, a milestone that sparked a lifelong pride and devotion to his alma mater. Professionally, David put his analytical mind and attention to detail to work at Rapistan, where he helped author and create the operations and maintenance manuals for their complex conveyor and material handling systems.

Above all else, David’s true passion was his family. He shared a life of deep love, devotion, and steadfast support with his beloved wife, Sharon J. (Morden) Miller. Together, they built a family grounded in love, encouragement, and shared memories.

A passionate sports fan, David played football and basketball during his high school years and remained an avid follower of the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions. However, his absolute highest loyalty was reserved for the Ferris State Bulldogs. Beyond televised sports, David's favorite place to be was in the stands cheering on his family; he never missed a single sporting event or band competition for his children or grandchildren, traveling near and far to support them. In his free time, David enjoyed listening to music from the1950s and 60s, and expanding his vast collection of sports memorabilia, and hunting for additions to his cherished Hopalong Cassidy collection.

David will be remembered for his unwavering loyalty, his gentle presence, and the endless support he showed to those he loved.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Sharon J. Miller; his children, Darrel D. Miller Jr. and his wife Mary, and Sarah (Miller) Kissel and her husband David; and his cherished grandchildren, Rebecca Wilcox, Alicia Wilcox, Anna Kissel, and Stephen Kissel. Brother-in-law Art Morden & Pat, Sister-in-laws Linda Lytle, Shirley Hazen & Dan, Mildred Christensen & L.J. Along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Darrel R. and Carolyn L. Miller, and his brother, Stephan R. Miller.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Daggett Gilbert Funeral Homes in Big Rapids.

We celebrate the life of David Robert Ruppert Jr., affectionately known to many as Bobby, who passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026, surrounded by his beloved family and friends. 

He was born on June 19, 1949, in Leroy, Michigan. Bobby lived a life rich with love, laughter, and dedication to those he cherished most.

Bobby was the devoted partner to Ellen McCracken, with whom he shared a beautiful legacy of children and grandchildren. His heart was the cornerstone of a large family, lovingly guiding his children: David Ruppert III (Donna Ruppert), Jody Raby, Leonard Ruppert (Carrolin Ruppert), Peggy Brooks (Brian Brooks), Jenny Bliss, and Becky Geise (Tom Geise). His legacy extends to his sisters, Marty Jaques (Gary Jaques), Cheryl Lodholtz (Howie Ludholtz), Patricia Stenberg (John Stenberg) and uncle, Dale Ruppert, his 21 grandchildren, and 26 great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward his spirit and love.

Bobby was predeceased by his beloved Ellen McCracken, and his sons Timothy and Christopher Ruppert, his parents David Ruppert Sr. & Shirley (Logan) with whom he is now joyfully reunited.

After graduating from Pine River High School, Bobby dedicated over 25 years to a fulfilling career at Tubelite in Reed City, where his strong work ethic and jovial nature left an indelible mark on colleagues and friends alike. A man of faith, Bobby was an active member of Bethel Church of Reed City, where he found solace and community.

Bobby’s passions lay in the great outdoors, where he spent countless hours hunting and fishing. He had a particular affection for going on drives, visiting with relatives, and enjoying the scenery and camping trips. His laughter was infectious, his sense of humor unmatched, and above all, his love for his family was unwavering.

A funeral service to honor Bobby’s life will be held on July 22, 2026, at the Bethel Church of Reed City at 12:00 P.M., located at 515 W Lincoln Ave, Reed City, MI 49677. 

As we gather to remember Bobby, we celebrate the joy and warmth he brought into our lives.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Bobby’s memory to Reed City Fields, as a tribute to his generous spirit and the kindness he extended to all.

Bobby’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him, and he will be dearly missed but never forgotten. His laughter, warmth, and love for family will remain as a guiding light for generations to come.

Dennis Vincent, 64, of Barryton, passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2026. He was born on February 11, 1962, in Clare, the son of Joel and Anna Vincent.

After graduating from high school, Dennis proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, he moved to California, where he worked for the federal government maintaining and repairing long-range radar systems for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Dennis was a master gardener who took great pride in his gardens and the beauty he created. He also loved taking on projects, tinkering, and fixing just about anything. Whether it was tools, equipment, or unique gadgets, he enjoyed collecting items that caught his interest and kept everything meticulously organized. There wasn't much Dennis couldn't repair, and he found great satisfaction in putting his skills to work.

After retiring, Dennis returned to Barryton, where he embraced the slower pace of life on his 20-acre property. He enjoyed spending countless hours in his shop, tackling new projects, tending to his property, and enjoying retirement in the community he was proud to call home.

He is survived by his son, Alan (Jessica) Vincent; his siblings, Alan Vincent Sr. and Bridgett Vincent; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Graveside memorial services will be held on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, 3:00 P.M. at Flake Cemetery in Barryton, with a celebration of Dennis's life to follow at the Barryton Township Hall.

Arrangements are in the care of Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Homes in Barryton. To leave a memory or share a condolence, please visit www.daggettfuneral.com.

Daniel T. McHugh Sr., 69, of Morley, passed away on Monday, July 20, 2026. He was born on June 16, 1957, in Lakeview, the son of James and Naomi McHugh.

Daniel graduated from Morley-Stanwood High School and proudly served his country in the United States Army. Following his military service, he built a career as a lineman with IBEW Local 876, where he worked faithfully until his retirement.

Daniel enjoyed riding his Harley and took great pride in his work as a lineman. Above all else, he treasured time spent with his grandchildren, who brought him immense joy and were the center of his life.

He is survived by his children, Daniel Jr. (Katie) McHugh and Alanah (Montery) Sterling; grandchildren, Eleanor, Henry, Breanna, Mykal, and Breasia; great-grandchildren, Wyatt, Westin, and Zaylah; brothers, James and Eddie; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Debbie; and his brother, Paul.

Private graveside services will be held at a later date.

He will be laid to rest at Aetna Township Cemetery in Morley.

Arrangements are in the care of Daggett Gilbert Funeral Homes in Big Rapids. To leave a memory or share a condolence, please visit www.daggettfuneral.com.

Edwin Vetter, 62, of Reed City, passed away on Sunday, July 19, 2026. He was born on August 6, 1963, in Wichita, Kansas, the son of John Vetter and Sharon Gensler.

After graduating from high school, Ed proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1981 to 1984. He later earned his associate degree from Baker College.

Ed found his true calling in helping others. He worked as both a caregiver and a maintenance man, always willing to lend a hand, repair whatever needed fixing, and go above and beyond to ensure those in his care were comfortable and well looked after. He later moved to Reed City to help care for his mother, continuing his lifelong dedication to serving others.

When he had time to himself, Ed enjoyed fishing and spending time outdoors, finding peace in nature.

He is survived by his mother, Sharon Clock; father, John (Cindy) Vetter; brother, Bob Vetter; along with several nieces.

He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Edward Clock Jr.; and his grandparents, Edwin and Margaret Gensler and Paul and Emma Vetter.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Reed City. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

He will be laid to rest at Meida Cemetery in Reed City.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church or the donor's charity of choice.

Arrangements are in the care of Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Homes in Big Rapids. To leave a memory or share a condolence, please visit www.daggettfuneral.com.