Beverly Thorpe-Hicks

Beverly Thorpe-Hicks Obituary

user

Age - 89

user

September 9, 2023

user

Homer, MI

Beverly Jean Thorpe-Hicks, 89, of Battle Creek, peacefully passed into eternity with our Lord, on Wednesday, September 6, 2023. Beverly was born on April 13, 1934 to Delmer W. and Angeline M. Sanders in Detroit, Michigan. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, who was a flawless homemaker and fabulous cook. Together, Don and Bev would make large carefully prepared extravagant holiday meals for their 8 children and extended family. These meals were enjoyed in a home meticulously decorated with crafts of her own making, especially at Christmastime. Beverly and Don were spirited campers, spending winter months in Florida, while enjoying the company of lifelong friends, and making new ones. Beverly was a gifted quilter and seamstress, spending months on the most beautiful and intricate designs. Over the years, she blessed her children and grandchildren with finely crafted keepsake quilts that will be enjoyed and passed on for generations to come. Beverly is survived by her children, Debbie (Bob) Jess, Dan (Susan) Thorpe, Darlene Hicks, Denise Neeb, Don Hicks Jr. , Dennis (Patricia) Thorpe, David (Denise) Thorpe, and Dean (Sue) Hicks; 17 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Robert E Thorpe, second husband, Donald J Hicks, her parents, and son in law, Len Neeb. As well as many other close family members and friends who enjoyed Beverly's welcoming home. Cremation has taken place and burial will follow at a later date at Glen Eden Lutheran Memorial Park in Livonia, Michigan.

Related Obituaries

Paul Kiessling

Paul Kiessling

Age - 99

October 16, 2023

Paul W. Kiessling, age 99, of Ceresco, died on Sunday morning, October 15, 2023 in the loving care of his family and caregivers at the Colonial House West in Marshall Township. Paul was born on May 3, 1924, at home in Hillsdale to Erwin W. and Audre R. (Martin) Kiessling. When he was 2 years old his family moved him to Marshall Township on C Drive North where his family farmed. Paul helped his parents with the farm growing up and attended country school at the old Conley School in Marshall Township. Paul entered Marshall High School and graduated as a member of the Marshall High School Redskin Class of 1942. Paul was married to Donna L. Hamilton on December 12, 1943. It was the start of a fruitful and loving partnership that lasted until Donna's death on October 28, 2009. Paul went to work doing sales and service work for the R. M. Lutz and Sons John Deere dealership on Marshall Street in Ceresco. Donna and Paul lived just a short walk down the street on Marshall Street. Paul spent the rest of his life in that home where he and Donna raised their family. The Dadow family purchased Lutz and Sons and Paul continued working for them for many years selling and servicing milking equipment for farmers in southern Michigan. Paul retired from Dadow Power Equipment in 1986 after he turned 62. At that same time Paul became a beloved and trusted associate at Craig K. Kempf Funeral Home (Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services) in Marshall. He served his community at the funeral home until he was 96 years old! Paul was a familiar and comforting figure at almost all the funerals conducted at Kempf's during those years. Craig and all his colleagues called Paul "The General" because of his amazing leadership and work ethic. Even in his mid-90's he was a challenge to physically keep up with while setting up or cleaning up! Paul was a committed community servant all his life. In 1952 he was part of a group of men that formed what is now the Marshall Township Fire Department. Paul served as the Assistant Fire Chief during the administration of E. Reed Vincent. He was appointed as Marshall Township Fire Chief in 1981. Paul retired as Chief when he turned 65 in 1989. Paul was a Life Member of the State Fire Chief's Association and the Western Michigan Fire Chief's Association. He was a member of the former Calhoun County Firefighters Association. He was a lifelong member of Zion Lutheran Church in Marshall where he served 3 terms as Congregational President and numerous terms on the Board of Elders, as well pitching in to work at any church project needing hands on help. Paul enjoyed his cabin near up north, especially deer season when he and his sons and grandsons and son-in-law joined him for many years. Fishing was another enjoyable hobby when he had time to do it! Paul served as a Calhoun County 4-H Leader for many years. In addition to the fire department, Paul served Marshall Township for many years as Chairman of the Fire Board, Board of Review and most recently as Assistant to the Township Supervisor until he became ill. Paul's mind remained sharp all his life and his valuable counsel to many was always sought out and respected. Paul liked to travel with Donna. They took a trip by car after they both retired in 1986 to tour the western states. Paul and Donna hosted a group of German Firefighters and their families here in 1988. They were invited to come to Germany by that group and in summer of 1989 they traveled to Germany, a trip that was a highlight for them! Paul is survived by his beloved family, his daughter and son-in-law Jeannette and David Glen, sons and daughters-in-law David and Carol Kiessling and Robert and Marjorie Kiessling; 7 grandchildren, Tad Kiessling, Troy Kiessling, Dan Glen, Kelly Blaskie, Tamara (Matthew) Kiessling Strole, Jennifer Kiessling and Tina Green; 12 great-grandchildren. Ty Blaskie, Kodie (TJ) Kiessling Davis, Kevin Green, Ryan Green, Lindzy Glen, Jessica (Luke) Harris, Luke Glen, Kaitlyn (Noah) Kiessling Defouw, Kara Kiessling, Krista (Brad) Kiessling Gillett, Benjamin Crocker, and Eryn (Austyn) Kiessling Dunn; and 8 great-great-grandchildren. Friends may call at Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 723 US HWY 27 N, Marshall on Tuesday, October 17, from 4PM - 7PM. Funeral services celebrating Paul's life and his Lord and Savior will be held on Wednesday, October 18, at 2PM at Zion Lutheran Church, 135 W. Green Street, Marshall with Rev. Anthony Volttatorni officiating. Fire Department Honors will be conducted by Marshall Township Fire Department. Interment next to Donna will follow in Ceresco Cemetery. A luncheon will follow back at Zion Lutheran Church Fellowship Hall. Friends who wish to make a memorial contribution in Paul's memory are asked to donate to Zion Lutheran Church, 135 W. Green Street, Marshall, MI 49068 or Marshall Township Fire Department, 13551 Myron Avery Drive, Marshall, MI 49068 or Battle Creek Area Habitat For Humanity, 595 North Avenue, Battle Creek, MI 49017 https://www. habitatbc. org/ Arrangements were entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 723 US HWY 27 N, Marshall, MI 49068. To to the family, pleaseShow more

Robert Rapp

Robert Rapp

Age - 77

October 15, 2023

Robert Cecil Rapp, born August 9, 1946, in Marshall, Michigan to Ethel Amsler and Earl Rapp. Robert passed away on October 11, 2023. He married the love of his life, Marcella R. Little Hubbard. Robert loved his family, hunting, fishing, collecting things, farming, and playing cards. Robert worked for McGraw in Albion until they closed, and then worked at the pickle factory in Eaton Rapids until they closed. Robert is survived by his children, Mary (Bill) Monarch, Kenny Rapp, Rodney (Katrina) Rapp; grandchildren, Courtney (Josh) Horner, Rodney Rapp Jr. , Shane Rapp, Cody and Benjamin Rapp, Katelyn (Brandon) Cottingham, and Joseph Monarch; great grandchildren, Zach, Chelsey, Larry, Brantley and Remmie Horner, Whitney, Zoe, Paisley, and Kailey Cottingham. sister-in-law's, Janice (Terry) Buskirk and Mary Little; brothers, Rodger and Bruce Rapp; as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Robert was preceded in death by his parents; wife; mother-in-law; father-in-law; aunts; uncles; cousins; a niece and nephew. Visitation will be held Tuesday, October 17, 2023, from 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm at Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 723 US Hwy 27 N, Marshall, Michigan 49068 with the funeral service to follow at 2:00 pm, Pastor John Beardslee of Fredonia Holiness Church, officiating. A graveside service will immediately follow the funeral service at West Eckford cemetery next to his parents. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Fredonia Holiness Church, 10600 13 1/2 Mile Road, Marshall, Michigan 49068. Please visit to view the online obituary, to sign the online guest book or to leave the family condolences. To to the family, pleaseShow more

James Becker

James Becker

Age - 61

October 11, 2023

James "Jim" Dee Becker passed away on October 9th, 2023, at the age of 61, after his battle with cancer Jim was born on January 9th, 1962, to parents L D & Barbara Becker in Hastings, MI Jim is survived by his daughter, Rylee Becker; his parents, L D & Barbara Becker; his sisters, Cynthia (Dr Robert) Dittoe, Cheri (Brian) Butler, Lori Becker (Edward Woods), and Wendy (Brian) Woeste; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews Jim graduated from Marshall High School in 1980 and attended ITT Technical Institute in Fort Wayne, IN After graduating from ITT, Jim returned to Marshall and began working on various construction projects including building pole barns and helping remodel structures He found his calling in the electrical world, working for his brother-in-law's company for many years, and eventually earning his journeyman electrician license For the last 7 years, he has worked at II Stanley in Battle Creek, MI as a Maintenance 3 Technician In his free time Jim was always tinkering If it had an engine, Jim wanted to tear it apart and learn how it worked Over the years he restored several vehicles, fixed many, many small engines, and shared his mechanical knowledge with anyone who asked He loved to ride dirt bikes and taking trips up north with his cousins to ride Jim also enjoyed spending as much time as he could with his daughter, Rylee One of their favorite things to do together was to go book shopping, where he'd watch her browse for hours Jim will be remembered by his family and friends as a kind, funny, hard-working man who will be greatly missed Visitation and funeral services will be held on Friday, October 13th, 2023, at Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 723 US Hwy 27 N, Marshall, MI 49068 Visitation hours will be from 10:00AM to 12:00PM The funeral service will begin at 12:00PM, Pastor Devon Shephard officiating A graveside service to follow at Austin Cemetery, 15 Mile Road, Marshall, MI Please visit to view the online obituary, to sign the online guest book or to leave the family condolences To to the family, pleaseShow more

Shelley Butler

Shelley Butler

Age - 67

October 9, 2023

In Loving Memory of Shelley Rose (Judy) Butler Shelley Rose Butler, affectionately known as "Mimi" by her adoring grandchildren, was a cherished wife, mother, daughter, aunt, friend and matriarch who passed away at the age of 67, surrounded by her loving family She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and selflessness that will forever be remembered by family, friends and everyone who knew her Shelley was born on May 3, 1956 to Harold Wayne and Betty Rose (Breen) Judy in Lawrenceville, Illinois Shelley graduated from Homer High School in 1974 She went on to attend JCC where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Nursing Shelley was a Registered Nurse for many years and cared for patients at Albion Community Hospital and then Community Health Center of Branch County until she retired Shelley married the love of her life, Mark Thomas Butler on August 23, 1980 in Homer They spent 43 wonderful years together Shelley is survived by her devoted husband, Mark; children, Crystal (Phil) Dabrowski and Tyler (BT) Butler; mother, Betty Judy; sister, Marla (Dean) Wade; brothers Monty Judy and Wayne (Diana) Judy; her grandchildren, Elliot, Cass, Talia, Tanner and Chloe Family was at the center of Shelley's life and she was a source of unwavering support and care for all fortunate enough to know her Shelley's love extended beyond her immediate family to include her cherished pets She fondly remembered her dog Kobe, a loyal companion who brought her immense joy for many years, as well as Renny, her current canine companion, who held a special place in her heart Shelley had a passion for rescuing animals, often opening her heart and home to cats in need, providing them with a safe and loving environment Her compassion knew no bounds, touching the lives of both people and animals alike She was preceded in death by her father, Harold Judy; brother, Mark Judy; best friend of Betty, Norm Ross Shelley's memory will forever live on in the hearts of her family, friends and the countless lives she touched Her legacy of love, kindness and care will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to a local animal rescue organization, in honor of Shelley's lifelong dedication to our furry friends A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 14, 2023 with visitation from 10am-12pm and service at 12pm at Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 303 S Hillsdale Street, Homer, Michigan 49245 Rev Linda Farmer-Lewis will be officiating Burial will directly follow the service at Fairview Cemetery in Homer A luncheon will take place after burial at the funeral home We will forever remember and celebrate the remarkable woman who made the world a better place through her boundless love, compassion and sense of humor Please visit https://www kempffuneralhome com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guestbook, or to leave the family condolences To to the family, pleaseShow more

Betty O'Dell-Blue

Betty O'Dell-Blue

Age - 98

October 3, 2023

Betty Jean (Adams) O'Dell-Blue, 98, of Marshall, passed away surrounded by family on October 2, 2023 Betty was born on August 8, 1925 to Shirley E and Zellah M (VanSyckle) Adams in Barry County, Michigan She was formerly a Legal Secretary for many years at the Belcher Auction Company in Marshall Betty married Robert F O' Dell on July 4, 1942 in Battle Creek She then married Willis C Blue on October 8, 1994 Betty liked to travel She went overseas several times and would go with her husband Willie to Florida Betty is survived by her daughters, Connie (Dan) Veatch of Albion and Joyce (Lyndol) Renfroe of Ardmore, Oklahoma; step-daughter, Connie (James) Gardner; 4 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, and 2 step-greatgrandchildren She was preceded in death by her parents; first husband, Robert F O' Dell; second husband, Willis C Blue; and her brothers, Keith Adams and Russell Dale Adams Visitation for Betty will be held on Thursday, October 5, 2023 from 5:30-7pm at Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 303 S Hillsdale Street, Homer, Michigan 49245 A graveside service will be held at Fairview Cemetery in Homer on Friday, October 6, 2023 at 11am In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Betty's honor to Centrica Care Hospice Navigators at https://centricacare org/giving/ Arrangements were entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 303 S Hillsdale Street, Homer, Michigan 49245 Please visit https://www kempffuneralhome com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guestbook, or to leave the family condolences To to the family, pleaseShow more

Ronald Grable

Ronald Grable

Age - 92

October 1, 2023

Ronald W Grable, 92, of Marshall, passed away on Friday, September 29, 2023 at home surrounded by his loving family He was born on April 30, 1931 to Edward and Louise (Chapman) Grable in Plainwell, Michigan Ronald was a factory worker for Eaton Corporation and an avid Farmer In June of 1950 he married Loretta Grable in Marshall They had 72 wonderful years together Ronald enjoyed hunting and fishing He and Loretta traveled and participated in barrel horse racing around the country Ronald was active with the Calhoun County 4H program He also baled hay for people around town Ronald is survived by his children, Marilyn Wolter of Marshall, Rick Grable of Marshall, and Karen Cole of Marshall; his grandchildren, Billy Wolter of Marshall, Nicklos (MaKenzie Miller) Swan of Marshall, and Melissa (Scott) Boysen of Marshall; his great grandchildren, Melanie Boysen and Ryan Boysen; He is also survived by many nieces and nephews He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Loretta, his parents and siblings Visitation for Ronald will be held on Friday, October 6, 2023 from 5-8pm at Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 723 US Hwy 27 N, Marshall, Michigan 49068 Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 7, 2023 at 11am with Pastor Bill Cole officiating Burial will take place at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens in Battle Creek, Michigan following the funeral service Memorial contributions may be directed to Oaklawn Hospice via https://oaklawnhospital org/services/hospice/make-a-memorial-donation-to-hospice/ or by mail to Oaklawn Development, 116 E Prospect Street, Marshall, Michigan 49068 Arrangements were entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 723 US Hwy 27 N, Marshall, Michigan 49068 To to the family, pleaseShow more

Joyce Lanphar

Joyce Lanphar

Age - 93

September 25, 2023

I'm home now. It's been a long journey. I am rejoicing now with those who have realized their sinful nature, and have put their trust in the payment Jesus, paid when he shed his blood on the cross so that we may be with him forever. (John 3:16) As I entered Heaven's gate, I was met by my parents, Solon Hoffman and Lefa (Andrews) Hoffman; my husband, Richard D. Lanphar; several friends; and my Savior, Jesus Christ. I pray my children Jackie (Neil) Bussing, Rick (Shelly) Lanphar and Steve (Tammy) Lanphar; grandchildren; great grandchildren; and great-great grandchildren will someday join me here. I look back with thankfulness that God allowed me to serve Him through music, as an interpreter for the deaf, youth leader at church and through a unique ministry on the phone, Grama and Grampa's Bible stories. It will be a joy for me if those who follow will also enter Heaven's gate at the end of their journey. Admit you are a sinner. (Romans 3:23, Romans 6:23) Believe Jesus is the Son of God, that His blood paid for your sin and that He conquered death. (Romans 5:8, Romans 10:13) Commit to Jesus, trust what He has done for you. (John 14:6) Tell others of the wonderful gift of salvation and live to please God. (Romans 10:9-10, Mark 16:15) - Joyce L. Lanphar "Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace: and the God of love and peace shall be with you. " (II Corinthians 13:11) Joyce was born on March 6, 1930. A celebration of life will be held at Anchor Baptist Church, 6020 23 Mile Rd. , Homer, Sunday, October 1, at 2 p. m. , with Pastor Brian Walker officiating. Memorial contributions are suggested to either Heart to Heart Hospice of Flint, online at https://www. htohhfoundation. org/ , or Highland Assisted Living Care Facility, 1948 Cooper Street, Jackson, MI 49202. Also, please visit https://kempffuneralhome. com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guestbook or to leave the family condolences. Show more

Shirley Winchell

Shirley Winchell

Age - 85

September 12, 2023

Shirley Jean Winchell, age 85, of Homer, Michigan, passed away on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. Shirley was born in Homer, Michigan on October 13, 1937, the daughter of the late Harry and Margaret (Kreger) Radee. She was a graduate of Homer High School, class of 1955. She was united in marriage with Elden Charles Winchell on November 30, 1957. She was a lifelong member of First Presbyterian Church of Homer, where she was involved with the Etta Prentiss Circle and sang in the choir. She worked as a bookkeeper and retired after twenty years of service from Lonny's Super Value grocery store. She volunteered for Homer Caring and Sharing for many years. She enjoyed reading, bunco, her exercise classes, and having lunch with her classmates. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and being a "benchwarmer" at school sporting events. She was a caring, loving, and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her biggest enjoyment and what she was most proud of was her family! Shirley is survived by her loving husband of sixty-five, Elden Charles Winchell; children, Doran (Tammy) Winchell, Kelly (fiance, Jeff Johnston) Renfroe, Brent (Cindi) Winchell, and Aaron Winchell; grandchildren, Kody (Heather) Renfroe, Brock (Chelsea) Winchell, Kyrie (Chris) Hernandez, Cheyenne (Cameron) Barrett, Paige (Dale) Cornstubble, Devan Winchell, Wyatt Winchell; great-grandchildren, Blake, Tessa, and Avery Renfroe, Kneco, Chris, and Rae Hernandez, Finley Barrett, Piper and Sawyer Cornstubble; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; son-in-law, Kevin Renfroe; sisters, Marjorie Wellington and Arlene Rose, and brothers, Wayne Radee, and Harry Radee. Shirley would like to be remembered as just a good ordinary person that did just the best that she could. She always hoped everything worked out for everyone. Friends may visit with the family from 11 a. m. - 1 p. m. on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services, 303 S Hillsdale St, Homer, MI 49245, with a memorial service to follow at 1 p. m. Please visit https://www. kempffuneralhome. com to view the online obituary, sign the guest book, and leave messages for the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the First Presbyterian Church of Homer. For assistance with memorials, please visit the funeral home. Show more

Find More Obituaries

right arrow