Frank R. Spadafore

Frank R. Spadafore, age 80, of the Stockbridge community, whose entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering commitment to family touched countless lives, passed away on February 13, 2024, at Trinity Health Ann Arbor in Superior Twp., MI. Born on March 24, 1943, in Stockbridge, MI, Frank was the son of Paul Sr. and Jennie (Fabiano) Spadafore.

Frank's journey began in Stockbridge, MI, where he cultivated his roots and flourished as the proprietor of Spadafore’s Food Market in Pinckney, where he fostered enduring connections and left an indelible mark on the community. A proud graduate of Stockbridge High School, Class of 1961, Frank epitomized the values of hard work and dedication. On July 24, 1971, Frank embarked on a lifelong journey of love and companionship, exchanging vows with his soulmate, Norma (Mitchell), in Bunker Hill, MI. Together, they established their cherished home in Pinckney, MI, where they raised their family and crafted a treasure trove of precious memories.

A visionary entrepreneur, Frank was a cornerstone of the surrounding communities. Yet, amidst his professional endeavors, Frank's greatest joy stemmed from his devotion to family. A loving husband, father, and grandfather, he reveled in attending his children’s and grandchildren's sporting events and school functions, where his unwavering support echoed throughout the stands. In his leisure time, Frank found solace in the simple pleasures of life, relishing moments spent playing cards, teeing off on the golf course, and passionately cheering on his beloved Notre Dame football team.

Frank's legacy of love and devotion will forever endure in the hearts of his beloved wife, Norma, their four children: Michael Spadafore of Ann Arbor, Tony (Kelly) Spadafore of Chelsea, Joe (Melissa) Spadafore of East Lansing, and Nick (Melissa) Spadafore of East Lansing; nine adoring grandchildren: Ryan, Mya, Hunter, Phoebe, Aidan, Loela, Stella, Georgia, and Sienna; and his sister-in-law, Connie Spadafore of Stockbridge. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul Sr. and Jennie Spadafore, his brother, Paul Spadafore, his sister, Josephine Wood, and an infant sister, Kathryn Spadafore. Frank's spirit will continue to shine brightly through the cherished memories and lasting impact he leaves behind.

Visitation will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home located at 901 North Main, Chelsea, MI, on Thursday, February 22, 2024, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, February 23, 2024, 11:00 a.m., at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Brighton, MI, with V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner. The family will also receive friends at the church on Friday from 10-11 a.m.

Luncheon immediately following the service at Crystal Gardens Event Center, located at 5768 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI 48843

Memorial contributions may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation or the Stockbridge Area Emergency Services Authority (SAESA).

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Darla J. Bohlender

Darla J. Bohlender, of Chelsea, MI, age 84, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, surrounded by her family. She was born on June 2, 1939, in Ivanhoe, MN, to the late Claire and Mary (Fitzgerald) Domek. Darla married John W. Bohlender on October 27, 1962 in Minnesota. After residing in the Chicago, IL area and the Crawfordsville, IN for many years, they moved their family to Chelsea, MI in 1978.

Darla earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing, but she found her niche in real estate. She worked for many years as a real estate agent for Thornton Realtors in Chelsea. She was an active member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea, as well as the Chelsea Senior Center.

She loved music and found joy in playing the piano. She also enjoyed shopping, going out to eat, and going to the casino. She was a member of Inverness Country Club, where she enjoyed many friendships and played in the Women's League. She also liked doing arts and crafts. Most of all, she loved her family. She was a wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother.

Darla is survived by four children, Michael (Peggy) Bohlender of Silverthorne, CO, Tracy (Edward) Jennings of Brighton, MI, Matthew (Leanne) Bohlender of Saline, and Kristin Scherer of Dexter; seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild; a brother, John (Donna) Kluczny, of Austin, MN, and a sister, Mary Jo (James) Dressen of Iowa; many nieces and nephews; as well as her dear friend, Toni Wilson of Chelsea. She was preceded in death by her husband, John Bohlender in 2016, and a sister, Vina Johnson.

Visitation will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Thursday, February 15, 2024, from 5-7 p.m., with Rosary at 6:30 p.m., led by Deacon John Kluczny. The family will also receive friends at the church on Friday from 10-11 a.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, February 16, 2024, 11:00 a.m., at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea Senior Center or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Bart C. Calloway

Bart Conrad Calloway, of Chelsea, MI, age 80, passed away on February 2, 2024 at his home in Chelsea, MI. Bart was born on October 1, 1943 in Manchester, MI, the son of Willie L. and Sammie W. (Paschell) Calloway.

He graduated from Clinton High School. He served in the United States Air Force for four years. He worked as a Tool and Die Maker for Ford Motor Company for 17 years and for Variety Die and Stamping in Dexter for 18 years, retiring from there.

He married Sandra Kay "Sandy" (Fletcher) on July 1, 1995, and she survives. Also surviving are two sons, Beau Calloway and Liam (Jessica) Calloway, grandchildren, Bradley, Skyler, and Roman; his brothers, Barry (Becky) Calloway, Ben Calloway, and a sister, Joyce Marx, all of Tennessee; several nieces and nephews; and a brother-in-law, Larry (Gayle) Fletcher of Chelsea.

He was an outdoorsman, and enjoyed hunting and fishing. He had a place up north and loved spending time up there.

Per his wishes, cremation has taken place and a private celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Hunter M. Allen

Hunter Michael Allen, age 22, of Chelsea, MI, passed away on February 1, 2024, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all those who knew him.

He was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Daniel (Brandy) Allen and Jayma (Donald Jr.) Bollinger.

If you were blessed to have known him, you know his smile, good humor, friendliness, and outgoing personality endeared him to all, and he truly never met a stranger.

He grew up in the Chelsea area and graduated from Chelsea High School in 2020. During high school he lettered in baseball, football, and bowling. Hunter was an avid outdoorsman who loved spending time hunting in the woods and casting a line in the nearest body of water. He had an adventurous spirit and over the years spent time riding dirt bikes, driving in the demolition derby, and even bull riding.

Hunter recently began working with his dad and started his own business, 2nd Gen Trim, and was enjoying his new career as a finish carpenter.

Besides his parents, Hunter is survived by his siblings, Shelby Sylvain, Darren Bollinger, and Braxson “Buck” Allen, all of Waterloo Township; his significant other, Olivia Shaw of Howell; his grandparents: Peggy (Dan) Nutt of Grass Lake, Danny (Sue Hutchinson) Allen of Brooklyn, Mike and Anita Spears of Chelsea, Becky (John Engelbert) Allen of Stockbridge, Donna Schwartzenberger of Ann Arbor, John Inverarity of Lawrence, KS, Dareld and Martha Albright of Lawrence, KS and great-grandmother “Gigi”, Frances Wagley of Ann Arbor, Faye (Rick) Sweeney of Stockbridge, and Donald Sr. (Michelle Grambau) Bollinger; and many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his uncles, Michael Spears and James Bollinger, grandparents, Judy Inverarity, Joseph Schwartzenberger, Dorothy (Richard) Fouty, Norm (Erma) O’Connor, Marlene (Joe) Keezer, Madeline and Clyde Martin, Thomas and Margaret Spears, Paul and Beverly Bollinger, and Christine Rentschler; cousins, Jay Robert Westcott and Johnny Westcott; aunt, Linda Westcott, and special aunt, Priscilla “Tootsie” Hale.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at Faith Baptist Church, 4030 Kalmbach Rd., Chelsea, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., as well as on Thursday from 10:00-11:00 a.m.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, February 8, 2024, 11:00 a.m., at Faith Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea.

The family requests attendees dress in casual attire, as Hunter would want it no other way, preferably jeans, flannels, and boots.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea High School Scholarship Fund, in memo put: Hunter Allen Memorial.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Kathleen "Kathy" M. Haywood

Kathleen “Kathy” Marie Haywood, age 81, of Chelsea, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 1, 2024. She was born October 16, 1942, in Whitmore Lake, MI. She grew up in Ann Arbor, graduating from Ann Arbor High in 1960. She moved to Chelsea with her husband, Don Haywood, in 1969.

Kathy spent her working years first at the University of Michigan and then as a housekeeper for many local families. She volunteered in the community at the Chelsea Fair Kitchen and bingo tent, St. Mary Catholic Church, and with the Knights of Columbus. She loved to read, take trips to the casino, and had quite a knack for creating beautiful quilts. If you are lucky enough to own one, you know the love that was put into it, and that it will last forever.

Kathy is survived by her daughter, Erin Throneberry (Jared), grandchild, Sloane, her adopted daughter, Valerie Houle (Pat), and the second love of her life, John Phelps; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Kathy was preceded in death by her husband, Donald A. Haywood, and her parents, Phillip and Raffaela Collica.

Visitation will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Friday, February 23, 2024 from 2-4 and 6-8pm, with Rosary at 7:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea, with V. Rev. Dr. Wiliam J. Canon Turner officiating. Burial will take place at Oak Grove East Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

The family would like to extend many thanks to the staff at Chelsea Community Hospital, (Honor) Senior Home Care, Arbor Hospice, and University Senior Living for their compassion and care. True angels on earth!

Frances H. Haidler

Frances Helen Haidler passed away peacefully at her home in Gregory, MI with loved ones by her side on December 18, 2023. 

She is preceded in death by her husband, Bill. Frances was born to John Henry and Margaret Mary (Landua) Hirt on August 16, 1925 and grew up on her family’s dairy farm in rural Taylor County, WI. She was the second oldest of twelve Hirt children and is survived by four siblings: her older sister, Sr Anita Hirt, brother, Raymond Hirt, sisters, Leah Sladek, and Tootie (Imelda) Wozniak. Also surviving are her four children, Patricia Haidler, Maria Fox (James), John Haidler (Laurie) and Robert Haidler (Jill); her six grandchildren who she loved and cherished: Joseph and Christine Haidler, Ian and Alexander Fox, Julia and Henry Haidler.

Frances completed nurse’s training in 1946 at Saint Joseph’s School of Nursing in Marshfield, WI. She worked as a general duty and surgical nurse at hospitals in Medford and Elkhorn, WI before serving in the US Army Nurse Corps as an RN, First Lieutenant, stationed at Fitzsimmons Army Hospital in Denver, CO, where she met her husband, Second Lieutenant William (Bill) Haidler. They were married in Medford, WI on September 12, 1952.

Shortly after marrying Bill, she completed her five year military commitment and was honorably discharged from the Army on October 17, 1953. They lived in Denver until being assigned to Tachikawa AFB in Japan. Thus began a life-long love of adventure and travel. Wherever their Air Force career took them, she created a warm and welcoming home for her family. Fran and Bill retired to Niles, MI in 1976, where they became long-time residents.

She enjoyed traveling and visited all seven continents with Bill during their 63 year marriage. She was a registered nurse and an active volunteer at the Lakeland Hospital Gift Shop in Niles, MI. Before that, she was active in nurse recruiting in Colorado and Ohio. Always an avid reader, she read to the visually impaired as a Volunteer for the Visually Handicapped in Bethesda, MD.

She was also a long-time volunteer with the Niles Garden Club and a volunteer and supporter of the Fernwood Botanical Garden in southwest Michigan. Frances was fearless in the garden and could easily spend all day gardening and took great delight in seeing what would grow (or not!) If asked, she would readily share her hard-earned plant wisdom.

Frances treasured her children and grandchildren and always had a keen interest in their welfare and activities. She leaves them with many warm memories of hiking, skiing, golfing, going to the beach, spending lazy days at Lake Michigan and exploring new surroundings.

Frances was a unique woman of quiet grace, open-minded with clarity of thought and a strong sense of duty. She was a loving and caring soul, absolutely devoted to her family and faith and kind to all. She was a great source of comfort, knowledge and support to those who knew her. Her warmth and graciousness are her lasting gifts to her family.

She will be cremated and later interred next to her beloved husband, Bill, at Ft. Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, MI. 

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2024, 1:00 p.m., at the Bell Tower Chapel, 1500 O’Day Street, Merrill, WI 54452.

Donations in memoriam may be made to the Women’s Military Memorial, WomensMemorial.org.

The Military Women’s Memorial is the nation’s only major national memorial honoring all women who have defended America, beginning with the American Revolution. Visitors to the Memorial experience the collective history of women in the military along with the individual stories of registered servicewomen. The Memorial’s world-class collection and research library are important resources for scholars, researchers and authors.

Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge, MI.

David J. Longe

David J. Longe, of Chelsea, MI, age 87, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on January 31, 2024, at Chelsea Hospital in Chelsea, MI. He was born on August 14, 1936 in Connecticut the son of Daniel and Miladore (Greening) Longe.

He was a beloved, favorite educator and coach for more than 50 years. He dedicated over 30 of those years at St. Francis of Assisi Middle School, where he also coached 7th and 8th grade basketball.

He graduated from De La Salle Collegiate High School in Detroit and then received his BA from the University of Detroit. Though he grew up in Detroit, his roots to Chelsea run deep. He spent most of his summers at his family homestead north of Chelsea, where he enjoyed spending time on North Lake and at Inverness Country Club golfing. Rumor has it, he could’ve become a professional golfer for as much time as he spent on the course. He was an avid vinyl record and baseball card collector and loved to share stories with his family about his keepsakes. He was often seen driving around town, and if he wasn’t driving, he could be found at the Chelsea softball fields watching his daughters or granddaughters, always eager for the next game.

He is survived by his children, Danielle Longe of Chelsea, Shannon (Jason) Longe-Bagbey of Chelsea, Erin (Josh) Parker of Chelsea, Kelly (Robert) Smyczynski of Pinckney, Michelle (Jon) Mykala of Chelsea, Kim (Mike) Ferry of Gregory, Nicole (Dale) Allen of Chelsea, and Matthew Collins of Chelsea; 23 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; a sister, Catherine Johnson of Georgia, one niece and nephew; and extended family, Paula Madar of Northville. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, and the mother of all the children, Lynda Collins.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, February 5, 2024, 11:00 a.m., at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea with V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea Athletic Boosters-Softball Program.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Dennis G. Hamilton

Dennis Gordon Hamilton, age 77, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2024 in Chelsea, MI, surrounded by family.

Dennis was born on November 9, 1946 to Robert and Phyllis Hamilton of Manchester, MI, the third of four sons. He graduated from Manchester High School in 1965. Denny worked in the family business, Manchester Locker Plant, for many years with his father and brothers. Denny enjoyed playing golf with his longtime buddies and was an avid University of Michigan football fan. He lived the majority of his life in Manchester and most recently in Chelsea.

Dennis will be remembered as a kind-hearted guy who deeply loved his family and cherished longtime friends.

Dennis was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Robert and Phyllis Hamilton, brother, Gary Hamilton, brother and sister-in-law, Doug and Cheryl Hamilton, and niece, Melissa Hamilton Revill. Denny is survived by his brother, Steve (Sharon) Hamilton, sister-in-law, Sandra Hamilton Tilly, nieces, Lisa (Greg) Brown, Jessica (Nick) Mastroionni, and Jenna (Ryan) Kappler. Dennis was also the loving great-uncle of five great-nieces, four great-nephews, and a great-great-uncle of one niece.

Cremation will be entrusted to Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea, MI. Interment of ashes will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery in Manchester in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice in his honor.

Russell A. Brown

Russell A. Brown, age 55, of Napoleon, MI went to join his Lord on January 26, 2024. He leaves behind his parents, Mr. and Mrs. William Kouba of Alpena, MI, his loving sister, Melissa (Kirk) Dettling of Napoleon, MI, his younger brother, Jason (Liliana) Kouba of Arvada, CO, his older brother, Eric (Michelle) Kouba of Canton, MI; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, Lisa Brown, Melissa Vorce, Melanie Knickerbocker, and the lights of his life, his grand babies, Lilly and Lucas.

The family will receive friends for a celebration of life gathering on Tuesday, February 6, 2024 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea, MI. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

Karen A. Price

Karen Allene Price, age 75, of Stockbridge, MI, passed away on January 29, 2024 at her home.

Karen was born on May 30, 1948 in Northville, MI, the daughter of Roland and Grace (Center) Spencer. She grew up in Ortonville, one of fourteen children. She enjoyed spending time outside, gardening and tending to her flowers. Most of all she loved her family and spending time with her grandchildren.

On March 20, 1986, she married Thomas J. Price in Howell, MI, and they enjoyed nearly 38 years of marriage. Also surviving are three children, Matt (Nicole) Caroen of Stockbridge, Andrew Caroen of Brooklyn, and James Caroen of Brooklyn, and three step-children, Tim (Lindsay) Price of Brighton, Todd Price of Pinckney, and Scott (Gigi) Price of Pinckney; twelve grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; her siblings: Dave Spencer of North Carolina, Randy Spencer of North Carolina, Greg Spencer of White Lake, MI, Sheila Ashley of North Carolina, Judy Reeves of Mt. Pleasant, MI, Dianna Rives of Spring Lake, MI, Marion Ring of Rock, MI, and Linda Sanders of White Lake, MI. She was preceded in death by five siblings: Edward Spencer, Daniel Spencer, Michael Spencer, Janet Murphy, and Connie Cross.

Visitation will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home in Chelsea on Friday, February 2, 2024 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.

A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2024, 10:00 a.m., at Washtenong Memorial Park in Ann Arbor, MI with Pastor Kurt Hutchens officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to Stockbridge Area Emergency Services Authority (SAESA).

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.