Jolene Lynette Totten, age 52, of Mecosta, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly on May 19, 2026.

Born on January 24, 1974, in Lakeview, Michigan, Jolene was the daughter of Dewey and Gloria Totten. A proud 1992 graduate of Chippewa Hills High School, Jolene was known for her kind heart, outgoing personality, and love for connecting with others.

Jolene spent many years waitressing at local restaurants, where she found joy in visiting with customers and making everyone feel welcome. She especially loved serving Sunday breakfast, feeding people, and sharing conversation and laughter with those around her. Known as a true social butterfly, Jolene never met a stranger and cherished staying connected, whether through long phone calls or attending local festivals, including the Heritage Festival and the Lilac Festival.

Jolene had a passion for both playing and watching softball and was an avid dirt track racing fan, making countless memories at Merritt and Crystal Motor Speedways. Above all, her greatest joy was her family. She treasured every moment spent with her children and grandchildren, especially trips to the lake, where she loved watching the grandchildren play and making memories together.

She is lovingly survived by her sons, Dakota (Korie) Minkel, and Zane (Meghan) Cour; her sisters, Lisa Hollandsworth and April (Bruce) Sloan; her brother, Kevin (Dallas) Totten; her stepbrothers, Tom Stevens and Christopher Stevens; her stepsister, Laurie Stevens; her beloved stepmother, Terry Totten; and her cherished grandchildren, Peyton Isanhart, Hadley Minkel, and Garret Minkel and with many extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dewey and Gloria Totten; her sister, Missy Totten; and her beloved dog, Diesel.

A celebration of Jolene’s life will be held later.

Care and arrangements have been entrusted to the Janowicz Family Funeral Home of Remus, Michigan.

Kathy Elaine Cook passed away at her home in Paris on the evening of May 27, 2026. She was born in Grand Rapids on Janurary 14,1950, one of the nine children of Robert and Phyllis (Huntley) Biggs.

A devoted mother, grandmother, and wife, Kathy will be remembered for her empathy and stability. Kathy would do anything for her grandchildren, who cared for her during her last years so that she could live comfortably at home. She took great pride in her riverfront property and maintained a beautiful garden. Kathy enjoyed shopping at yard sales and playing Bingo at the local VFW. If she had a cup of coffee in her hands, Kathy was happy.

Kathy is survived by her three children: Lisa Smith, Sam Cook II, and Michael Cook; grandchildren: Madison Cook, Sam Cook III, Ashley Smith, and Raychel Balder; as well as her sisters: Betty Biggs, Paula Biggs, Brenda Pratt, Cheryl Biggs, and Ruth Vandenberg. She is preceded in death by both parents; her beloved husband of over 60 years: Sam Cook Sr.; and her siblings: Bob Biggs, Shirley VanderEnde, and Michelle Biggs.

Arrangements are in the care of Daggett Gilbert Funeral Homes. Kathy's family will host a private celebration of life at a later date.

Ann Mary Steig, 92, of Reed City, Michigan, passed away on Friday, May 15, 2026. 

Ann, the daughter of Leo Daniel & Lenore Brennan, was born June 5, 1933, in Paris, Michigan.  She graduated from Big Rapids High School with honors in 1951.  Ann was a lifelong devoted catholic and was a member of the St. Phillips Neri Catholic Church in Reed City.  

Ann married Harold M. Steig on September 12, 1952 and were married 43 years until Harold’s passing on April 6, 1996. Together they had 6 children and owned/operated several successful businesses.  Ann was also employed by Evart Products for 27.5 years as the General Accounting Supervisor retiring March 30, 1990.  After her retirement, she enjoyed scrapbooking, spending time with family/friends, and especially following her grandchildren and great grandchildren to their events.

Surviving Ann are 5 of her children, Roger (Michelle) Steig of Reed City, MI, Linda Brunette of Winter Garden, FL, Joanne (Max) Merry of Stanton, MI, Barbara (Gary) Clark of Leroy, MI, and Chris (Alan) Thompson of Paris, MI, 18 grandchildren, 48 great grandchildren, and 18 great-great grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold M. Steig, both of her siblings, Delores Eichenberg and James Brennan, one son, Harold Daniel Steig, and 1 great grandchild.

Per Ann’s request, she has been cremated and no funeral service will take place.  She will be laid to rest at Woodland Cemetery in Reed City.

Barbara May Belland, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on March 27, 1943, Barbara lived a life rich in love, laughter, and compassion. Residing in Six Lakes, MI, with her beloved husband Larry Belland, she was a vibrant pillar of her community and an unwavering source of support for her family.

Barbara's life was defined by her nurturing spirit. She was the heart of her home, where she lovingly raised her seven children. Her family will forever carry the legacy of her kindness and generosity. A devoted homemaker, Barbara found joy in cooking, gardening, sewing, and quilting. Each grandchild will always treasure the special blankets she crafted with love, a testament to her dedication and creativity.

A collector of bells, Barbara had an eye for the unique and beautiful, and her home was always a welcoming haven for anyone in need. She never turned away a guest and opened her arms to all, reinforcing the bonds of community and friendship. Barbara was often the person to whom others turned to, whether for guidance, comfort, or just a good conversation.

Barbara leaves behind her loving husband Larry, children, Janet, Russell, Sandra, Eric (Kendra), Amy, and Cindy (Joel), siblings, Patty, Kathy, Michael, and Jimmy, grandchildren, Melissa (Don), Ernie, Amanda (Jorden), Andrew (Destiny), Kelly (Logan), Jessica, James, Christopher, Miguel, Christopher, Sophia, Matthew, Felicia (Ethan), Meagan, Kennedy (Jarod), and Joey. Along with 19 great-grand children.

Barbara is proceeded in death by her father, William, mother, Ruby, daughter, Michelle, and brother David.

Family and friends are invited to honor Barbara's remarkable life. Public viewing will take place at the Janowicz Family Funeral Home-Lakeview on May 22, 2026, beginning at 10:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow at 12:00 p.m., allowing us to gather and share memories of the incredible woman we were fortunate to know.

Barbara May Belland's spirit will continue to live on through the lives she touched and the love she so freely gave. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Janice Sue Martin, 71, of Lake, passed away on May 26, 2026, at her daughter’s home in Hopkins, surrounded by her family. She was born on August 6, 1954, in Mt. Pleasant, the daughter of James and Donna “Mussell” Murphy.

Janice loved playing bingo and had a passion for helping with Mecosta County Toys for Tots alongside her daughters. She enjoyed camping, tubing down the river, and indulging in her favorite foods and drinks — especially crab legs, Pepsi, and Bud Light.She was a thrill seeker who loved roller coasters and truly lived life to the fullest. Above all, Janice cherished time spent with her family and the memories they created together.

She is survived by her loving husband, Ralph Martin; children, Carl Wilson, Terry (Melanie) Wilson, Angela (Fred) Malek, and Cheri (Shawn) Burch; along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings: Karen, Jean, Carol, and David.

She was preceded in death by her parents; granddaughter, Faith Wilson; and siblings, Pauline, Gary, Larry, Tammy.

Memorial services will be conducted on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Charity Baptist Church in Paris. The family will greet guests from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. A luncheon will follow.Memorial contributions may be made to Mecosta County Toys for Tots.

Shirley May Vallad, better known as “Ma Vallad”, of Sears, passed away on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at Corewell Health RNC in Reed City, where she was lovingly cared for. Ma had a way with people and you just knew you had to love her and let her care. She was a few days shy of her 89th birthday.

She was born May 31, 1937 In Breedsville, Michigan to Orie and Lavern Ruth (Shields) Withey. She resided in Bath, where she started raising her family and was a homemaker. However, throughout the years when it was necessary to work she didn’t hesitate to try something new as a bus driver or janitor. She worked for Oldsmobile and Motor Wheel in Lansing and as a CNA at Saint Lawrence and Sparrow Hospitals. In her later years, she was more of a councelor than a bartender in the Evart area at the: Eagles, Moose Lodge, Evart Lounge, and the Log Cabin on M-115.

Shirley always had an open door, listening ear and warm meal for those around her, any straggler she might come across, or the kids might bring home.

It was a defining moment in Shirley’s life when she married Harold Vallad - this is when she truly became “Ma”. In that roll she excelled and made the family whole. Teaching them that family is unconditional and showing them the value of love, forgiveness, determination, and hard work.

Ma is survived by- children, Steve Barnett, Connie (Dick) Andersen, John Barnett, Yvonne Gilland, Todd Barnett, Mark (Terri) Barnett, Buck (Brandy) Vallad, Roger Vallad, Rhonda (Steve) Fishburn, Ranae Vallad, Ronn (Dawn) Vallad, Eldora (Squawker) Vallad, Chuckie Baker, Jeff (Peggy) Jefferies, Terri (Steve) Crego of and Roberta (Chuck) Swales; 41 grandchildren, 77 great-grandchildren, at least one great-great grandchild and numerous extended family and friends.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Orie Withey and Lavern (Withey) Corbin; four children Dawn Cook, Tina Baldwin, Randy and Rodney Vallad; grandson, Brett Barnett, two granddaughters, Amanda and Shannon Lucas and three brothers, Bob (Adella), Ed (Rose) and Leonard Withey.

For all of those that made Ma Vallad feel comfortable and cared for at Papa’s Place and the RNC, know that she felt the love and we have all been blessed to have had you in her life. Thankyou….the friendship reaches far past today.

A life celebration is being planned for later this summer.

Memorial contributions in Ma’s name can be made to the Humane Society. Arrangements were entrusted to the Corey Funeral Home, Evart, MI. Condolences can be left online at www.coreyfuneralhome.com

Donald Richard Hopkins, who left us on May 17, 2026, at the age of 71. Born on December 18, 1954, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Donald was a cherished resident of Howard City, where he created a loving home and a legacy of devotion to his family.

Donald was a dedicated type setter, contributing his skills to Exact Graphics, where he was known for his work ethic and commitment.

A family man at heart, Donald enjoyed 53 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Susan Hopkins. Together, they nurtured a family filled with love, laughter, and countless memories. He took great pride in his son, Don, and his daughter, Robin (Steve), along with his six grandchildren: Tim (Ashley), Dustin (Blaze), Felicia (Craig), Steven (Lexi), and Ricky (Jenna), and he adored his great-grandchildren, Daniel, Lynnex, Kai, Koa, Carter, Colten, and his soon-to-arrive great-grandbaby, Kru.

Beyond family, Donald found joy in a variety of hobbies. He was an outdoorsman who delighted in hunting, fishing, and mushroom hunting, and he enjoyed playing golf and bowling with friends. Sports were a passion of his, as he was always a keen watcher, cheering passionately for his favorite teams.

Donald will be remembered for his caring nature, vibrant spirit, and the joy he brought to those around him. His legacy of love, laughter, and dedication will continue to shine through the lives of those he leaves behind.

A memorial service to celebrate Donald’s life will be held in the upcoming days, details of which will be shared with family and friends once finalized.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages friends and loved ones to honor Donald’s memory by spending time with their own families, enjoying the outdoors, or sharing a favorite story in his spirit.

Jerrold Lewis Minier, age 91 of Bitely, went home to his heavenly Father, surrounded by family on May 24, 2026. Jerry was the son of “Sally” Kowalski. As an adult, Jerry discovered his younger Minier siblings: Jim, the late Judy, Dave (Barb), and Pat. Jerry was a graduate of Union High School and Western Michigan University and held a Masters Degree from Michigan State University. Jerry proudly served his country as a Corpsman in the United States Navy. In addition to being a teacher, a coach, an avid outdoorsman, and a past chairman of the Board of Review for Lilley Township, Newaygo County, Jerry served as a catechism and Sunday school teacher, a deacon, an elder, and mission trip member. Jerry was a member of the Nichols Lake Association and Fellowship Christian Reformed Church.

Jerry was predeceased by his high school sweetheart and wife of 69 years, Lois Elaine. Together, they have four beloved daughters: Jayne, the late Amy (Philip), Sara, and Jennifer (Daniel). Jerry is also survived by his grandchildren: Bryan (Karina) and their children: Lucas and Ian, Cory (Jayne) and their children: Eleanor, Samuel, Elias, Gabriel Jerrold, and Alyda, Karyn (Brent) and their children: Jackson and baby-on-the-way, Leigh (Ricky) and their child: Meadow, Paige (Bobby), Grace, Faith (Jason), F. Lewis, Alex (Grace), Elaina and Danae, along with many other family members.

Jerry will be remembered for his Christ-filled life of gentle patience, dry humor, his love and support of children and young people, and his loving spirit. Jerry and family give special thanks to Jasmine and the Corewell Hospice Team (Stacy, Shannon, and Paige) for all of their tender care.

A memorial Celebration of Jerry's life and heavenly homecoming will be held at the Fellowship Christian Reformed Church, 407 Perry Avenue, Big Rapids on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at 11:00 AM with a luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Jerry's church.

If you knew Ralph Hetherington, age 86 of Barryton, you knew he bled red, white and blue. So, it was no surprise that on the morning of Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, 2026, at home with his family at his side ,Ralph, unknowing of the day, entered into eternal rest.

Ralph was born on May 31, 1939 in Flint to Fred & Mildred (Rouse) Hetherington. He graduated from Flint Central High School in 1956. On September 7, 1957 Ralph married Cecelia J. Badder at Oak Park Methodist Church, and they made their home in Flint, where they raised their family and he spent 30+ years working at Buick.

Ralph was never one to sit still. When the children were younger Ralph was a Boy Scout leader for 11 years, for 12 years he and wife Cecelia avidly bowled together, and for two years, Ralph and Cecelia together were hosts for the CANUSA Games in Flint through the March of Dimes. Ralph enjoyed nothing more than spending time with all his family, whether it was having cook outs, pulling the grandkids around behind his tractor, playing games outdoors or fishing in his pond with the grandkids and great grandkids. His family was his life. He always had a life lesson to teach you no matter the age. Ralph loved to draw and paint. He painted the sign for the former Northern Trails on M66 and the large Map at the entrance of Lackie's Birch Haven. Most days you could find Ralph socializing at Williams Café, having breakfast and coffee while carrying on conversations about everything.

Ralph dedicated 20 years to the Army National Guard and was an active member with the Gerald Pitts American Legion Post 473. The last several years, before his health declined he spent time helping other veterans through the Mecosta County Veterans Service Office. Ralph was a true American who believed in his country.

Ralph is survived by: 5 children, Bryan (Shirley) Hetherington, Pamela Phillips, Bruce (Sally) Hetherington, Michelle Riskovich, and Angela (Mark Plamondon) Miller, 18 Grandchildren, 34 Great Grandchildren, 6 Great Great Grandchildren, 2 brothers-in-law, 3 sisters-in-law and several nieces, nephews and many close friends.

Ralph was preceded in death by: his loving Wife of 60 years, Cecelia Hetherington, his parents, Fred and Mildred Hetherington, 2 brothers Russell and Donald Hetherington, Mother and Father in-law, Joseph and Mary Badder, 3 brothers-in-law, 1 sister-in-law, a nephew Blaine Badder, 2 sons-in-law Randy Riskovich and Bill Phillips, and daughter-in-law Diana Hetherington.

All are welcome to spend time together at the Corey Funeral Home in Evart on Thursday, from 12PM to 4PM at a visitation for Ralph. During that time a poppy ceremony will be held at 2PM- All veterans may participate. Funeral services will begin at 4PM with a memorial dinner to follow at the Barryton Community Center at 6PM. 

Graveside services and military honors will be on Friday, May 29th at 1 PM at Flint Memorial Park in Mt. Morris.

Allen R. Miller, 71, of Morley, passed away on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. He was born on October 10, 1954, in Mt. Pleasant, the son of Donald and Martha (Frantz) Miller.

Allen was raised in Grand Rapids and proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. In 1973, he was united in marriage to Geneva Palmer. Together they built a life and family while living in Farmington, where Allen worked for and later owned Metal Prep — a business he poured his time, hard work, and dedication into building and growing.

In 2007, Allen retired and moved to Morley, a place that had become special to him after spending many weekends there with his children while they were growing up. It was a place he was proud to finally call home.

Allen loved hunting, fishing, and, most importantly, helping others. He was a wonderful husband, devoted father, and someone who would do anything for anybody. At times, he showed tough love and was never afraid to share his honest opinion. He also enjoyed riding his Harley-Davidson with friends.

He is survived by his loving wife, Geneva Miller; sons, Tim (Terri), Dennis (Theresa), and Andrew (Sreykea); grandchildren, Justin, Courtney, Timmy Jr., Levi Arnold, Kasie, D.J., Alyssa, Duane, and Andy Jr.; great-grandchildren, Karter, Eliyanna, Isaac, Levi, and Parker; siblings, Bob (Kim), Roger (Patti), and Nancy (Roy) Saenz; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Funeral services will be conducted on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 12:00 noon at Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Homes in Big Rapids. Visitation will be held on Friday, May 29, 2026, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Dean William Morris, age 88 of Wheatland Township, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on May 17, 2026. Dean was the son of Emmett and Laura (Searfoss) Morris and was born on April 4, 1938. Dean graduated in 1956 with the last class of Midland High School.

Dean could always be found working on projects, out in his garden growing beautiful flowers and plants, or drinking a good cup of coffee with friends at his favorite local spot. He adored spending time with his great grand kids, and they were the light of his life. Dean was always there to lend a helping hand whether you knew him or not, and he loved to take care of others especially his family. His love and legacy of care will never be forgotten.

Dean is survived by his children, Karyn Morris, Gary Morris, and Robert (Lori) Morris; grandson Josh (Tanya) Morris; great-grandchildren, Isaac and Amelia; his brother's Reverend Ralph (Pat) Morris, and Richard (Mary) Morris; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Dean is preceded in death by his parents; beloved wife Linda (Brown) Morris; daughter Malissa Wells; and brother Marvin Morris.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Tim and Shawn Frick for all of their wonderful love and care.

Memorial contributions can be made in Dean's name to Heartland Hospice of Mt. Pleasant.

Arrangements and care have been entrusted to Daggett Gilbert Funeral Homes, of Barryton. To share a memory or leave a condolence with the family, please visit www.daggettfuneral.com