Sharon Lee Edwards, 63, of Bitely, passed away Thursday, October 19, 2023, in Baldwin.

She was born July 8, 1960, in Grand Rapids, MI, the daughter of Vernon and Ella (Raymond) Harig.  Sharon lived in Bitely for many years, and worked at various establishments, including the Bitely Bar and Woody’s Place in Woodland Park.  

She is survived by her two sons, Phillip (Joyce) Lovett and Michael (Candi) Lovett;  grandchildren, Tristan Hill, Adriana, Ashley, Zachary, Caleb, and Derrick Lovett; eight great grandchildren; five sisters, Joan, Debra, Charlene, Karen, and Linda; her brother Ray Allen; her first husband Phillip Lovett; and many nieces and nephews. Sharon was preceded in death by her husband Gerald Edwards, son John Lovett, daughter Tonya Lovett, and sister Kathy.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, October 25, 2023, at Amazing Grace Acres Church in Bitely, with Pastor Dale Merchant officiating. Burial will follow in the Bitely Cemetery. Sharon’s family will greet friends beginning at 10 a.m., Wednesday at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the funeral home to help with final expenses. Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Share a memory or express condolences at mohnkefuneralhome.com.

Lucia Jean Hanson, a lifelong resident of Big Rapids, Michigan, passed away on October 14, 2023. 

She was born on February 17, 1947, to her loving parents, Tom and Etta (Buckley) Ryan. Lucia was a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many with her boundless love, compassion, and enthusiasm for life. Lucia's journey was marked by her enduring love story with her beloved husband, Thomas Hanson, whom she married on June 18, 1969. Their special bond was evident to all who knew them, and together they built a beautiful family in Grant Center, raising their children on Oak Road, where countless cherished memories were created.

Lucia's warmth and generosity extended beyond her own family. She was a true supporter and a devoted prayer warrior and cheerleader for numerous people in her life. She had a unique gift for bringing people together and was known as a talented party planner, always eager to celebrate life's moments with loved ones. To know Lucia was to love her, as she made everyone around her feel special. 

Lucia and Tom were blessed with three children, Nels, Erika (Rodney) Fredrick, Ryan and Danielle (Morneau) Hanson. Their family continued to grow with the addition of four grandchildren: Zachary Fredrick, Leah (Justin) Sims, Mackenzie Hanson, Lane Hanson, and an honorary grandchild, Paris Curtiss. Lucia was preceded in death by her parents, Tom and Etta Ryan, and her in-laws, Nels and Evelyn Hanson. She also mourned the loss of her son, Nels Hanson, sister Roseanne Sapp, brother-in-law Paul Sapp, niece Paula Sapp, and nephews Tom and Jeff Sapp, and brother-in[1]law Jack Leach. Lucia is survived by her siblings, Tom Ryan (Charles Kralovec), Kathy (Norm) Hopkins, Pat (Rhoda) Ryan, Tim (Paula) Ryan, sister-in-law, Suzanne Leach, and several nieces and nephews.

Lucia dedicated her working life to caring for others, and she retired from the Mecosta Osceola Intermediate School District. She was a proud graduate of Big Rapids High School's class of 1965. Lucia's lifelong career choices were a reflection of her deep caring for people. After completing her education, she embarked on a journey at Sunshine Hospital in Grand Rapids, where her compassionate spirit was shown as she provided care and comfort to patients in need. Her passion for making a positive impact led her to the role of Activities Director at Green Ridge Nursing Home. Recognizing the need for support, she initiated the area's first Alzheimer's support group. Her efforts provided invaluable assistance to both patients and their families, leaving an enduring mark on the community. In her later years, Lucia devoted herself to caring for children with autism. She retired from the Mecosta Osceola Intermediate School District, where she worked as a para-professional. Lucia's nurturing approach earned her the endearing title of "Friend" from the children she assisted. Her genuine care and patience enriched the lives of these students. Lucia's exceptional warmth extended beyond her professional life. She even often welcomed residents into her home, often including them in family dinners. Her inclusive nature exemplified her belief in the power of love and unity. Lucia's life was a testament to her deep and selfless care for others. Her memory will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of experiencing her kindness. 

Lucia Hanson's legacy is one of love, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to family and friends. She will be dearly missed but remembered with love and fond memories by all whose lives she touched. 

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at Trinity Fellowship Evangelical Free Church, 15085 220th Avenue, Big Rapids, with William Routley officiating.  A reception and luncheon to celebrate Lucia's life will follow at the church.  Her family will greet friends on Tuesday, October 17, from 4-7 p.m., at the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids, and at the church after 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday.   In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Lucia’s honor may be made to Mecosta-Osceola ISD, Mrs. Snyder’s Classroom’. Checks made out to: Mecosta-Osceola ISD w/ ‘Mrs. Snyder’ in the memo. Mail to: Mecosta-Osceola ISD Attn: Steve Locke 15760 190th Ave Big Rapids, MI 49307. Share a memory or express condolences at mohnkefuneralhome.com.

Joel John Toth, much-loved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully with family by his side, Monday, October 2, 2023, at Mission Point Nursing and Physical Rehabilitation Center of Big Rapids, Michigan.

He was born January 8, 1939, in Syracuse, New York, to Frank and Dorothy (Townsend) Toth. Joel lived in the area most of his 84 years. He went to grade school, middle school and high school in the Syracuse area, and attended Houghton College in western New York. He graduated from Syracuse University with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, and later, a master’s degree in education. 

At 24, Joel married his former wife, Gwyneth (Smith) Phillips, and together they had three children: Heather, Scott and Amy Lynn. In his 20s and 30s, Joel worked in the family business with his father: 7-Hour Martinizing/Dry Cleaning and Laundry. After selling 7-Hour, Joel became a teacher of business, accounting and typing at East Syracuse Minoa High School and Central City Business Institute. In his later years, he worked as a financial controller, commercial realtor, and as one of the best customer service representatives a local men’s clothing store ever had. 

Joel was also a teacher of the Bible at North Syracuse Baptist Church, and shared the message of his Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. He taught his children and many others about the Gospel. He taught Sunday school and led a youth group for several years. Joel also supported a Christian group of high school students by being at school early, allowing them to meet. 

His family, friends and acquaintances describe Joel as direct, intelligent, patient, kind, compassionate and supportive. A dry humor along with snappy retorts were often delivered well-timed and with wit. His facial expressions spoke volumes. Best known was the ‘you are in deep trouble... stop now’ glance, given to his children and students alike. 

33 years ago, Joel met Marcia Luke, whom he described as the love of his life. For most of that time, where you found one of them, you found them both. Their companionship bloomed and was based on their mutual love for Jesus. Sadly, in December of 2022, illness led to Joel being cared for in Michigan, while Marcia stayed in Syracuse in the care of her children. They continued to talk daily, until it was no longer possible. As Joel and Marcia have both said, their love will remain into eternity. 

His wisdom and loving nature are deeply missed by Marcia; Joel’s children, Heather Toth (Matt Mortenson), Scott (Dena) Toth, and Amy Lynn (Tim) Bosch; grandchildren, Ron, Drew, Tegan, Kirstin, Garrett, Sarah, and Ian; and great-grandchildren, Carter, Avery, and Dante. Marcia’s children, Tommy (Jan), Marie (Brian) and Marcia Ann also miss him. He loved them as if they were his own. Joel was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Dorothy, and his brother, Denny. 

Joel requested there be no funeral services. A private family burial will take place at a future date. Care and arrangements are entrusted to Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids, Michigan. 

Joel loved to look out at God’s creation, and always had a fondness for trees. If you’re so inclined, his family would appreciate you planting a tree in his memory at: https://shop.arborday.org/trees-in-memory

Joel’s family would very much like you to share any memories, or expressions of condolence, at mohnkefuneralhome.com

Alice was born to Rexford and Margaret Keller on October 10, 1936, in Delaware, OH. She graduated from Delaware High School in 1954. Alice earned a Bachelor’s degree from Ohio Wesleyan University in December 1957, and later a Master’s degree in Education from University of Minnesota. 

On February 1, 1958, Alice married Jesse Leister of Constatine MI. They started their lives together in Fenton, MI, where Alice also began a teaching journey in the local elementary school. In 1965, they moved to Big Rapids, embracing their new community, establishing their home and raising three children, a family in God’s love. This also included opening their home to two foreign exchange students for added joy. 

A life-long educator, the idea of helping others personified Alice. While building the family foundation, she initially taught reading at Ferris State College. But the formative grades were her calling, so she quickly transitioned to a teaching career at Big Rapids Public Schools. She started at Hillcrest Elementary teaching first grade, eventually teaching at all four elementary schools in town through her tenure. Of particular note, Alice developed the unique “Junior First” program to enhance foundational education in Big Rapids, a model that was adopted by schools across the State of Michigan. 

Faith was a cornerstone to every aspect of her life. Alice served the Lord and congregation as a member of the First United Methodist Church in Big Rapids for nearly 60 years. Active in the nursery, Sunday school, choirs, Boy Scouts, women’s groups, and Bible studies, she also wrote countless inspirational articles in church bulletins and newsletters. Her joy, faith and compassion were felt by all. 

To Alice, life and learning were about experience. Beginning with annual family trips to Florida, fishing in Canada, and camping in local parks, she enjoyed new adventures across the USA. She visited sites from Washington DC to the deserts, to Mt Saint Helens, Yellowstone, and Denali National Park. She trekked to Germany, Sweden, and Mexico. After retiring in 1994, Alice and Jesse planted winter roots in Texas, becoming annual snowbirds. 

Alice is survived by her children, Colonel (ret) William (Deborah) Leister, Susan (Matt) McCullen, and Rebecca (Ted Rueffer) Davis; 10 grandchildren, Jesse (Madison), Casey (Judah Weeks), Brett, Taylor, Nick, Josh, Elyse, Shane, Mac, and Maddy; and many nieces and nephews. Alice was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Jesse, her parents and her sister Mary. 

Funeral services will be 11 a.m., Friday, October 6, 2023, at the First United Methodist Church in Big Rapids, with Pastor Jeremy Wicks officiating. Burial will follow in the Chippewa Lake Cemetery. Alice’s family will greet friends from 4-7 p.m., Thursday, October 5. 2023 at the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Memorial contributions in her name may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Big Rapids. Share a memory or express condolences at mohnkefuneralhome.com.

Alice Ruth Granfield, 96, of Big Rapids, passed away Sunday, September 24, 2023, at Evergreen Terrace.

She was born January 5, 1927, in Indianapolis, IN, the daughter of Clarence and Ruth (Mauch) Taylor. Alice spent her growing up years in Indianapolis and was a 1945 graduate of Broad Ripple High School.

On September 4, 1948, Alice married James Patrick Granfield in Indianapolis. They moved to Big Rapids in 1967 where they made their home and raised their family.  Alice was a longtime member of St. Mary/ St. Paul Catholic Parish.

She is survived by her children, Leanne (Don) Fike of Montana, James T. Granfield, Milissa Granfield, and Terrence Granfield, all of Big Rapids; eight grandchildren, Dennis John “DJ’ Baars, and Tad, Caitlin, Holly, Hannah, Andrew, Laurel, and Benjamin Granfield; eight great grandchildren; and her nephew Richard Francisco. Alice was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and her sister Virginia Francisco.

Private family services will be held at Mt. Carmel Cemetery in Big Rapids, where Alice will be laid to rest next to her husband.  Memorial contributions in her name may be made to St. Mary/ St. Paul Parish. Care and arrangements are entrusted to the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids. Share a memory or express condolences at mohnkefuneralhome.com.