Daniel D. Levliet

Daniel D. Levliet passed away at the Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice Home on April 20, 2024 in Jackson, MI at the age of 87.

He was born the son of Daniel D. and Lucile E. Schill, and they preceded him in death. On June 23, 1990, he married Jerri Lynn (Williams), and she survives. He is also survived by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings.

Daniel was proud to be a veteran of the United States Army and served two tours of duty in Vietnam, where he received the Purple Heart. Daniel served more than 23 years in the Army and retired as a Sergeant First Class. He was a meticulous craftsman and builder, and he built his own house. Anyone who knew him had heard the phrase, “you’re not doing it right.”

A celebration of life will take place at a later date.

Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.

Irving "Irv" C. Tabaka

Irving “Irv” Christopher Tabaka, age 74, of Chelsea, Michigan, passed away peacefully at his home on April 22, 2024 with his family by his side.

Irv was born on March 19, 1950, in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Joseph and Helen (Gacioch) Tabaka. Irv attended All Saints High School in Detroit, Michigan and graduated in 1969, where he was known as a friend to all, especially the underdogs.

Following graduation, Irv joined the Detroit Police Reserve in addition to starting his career in the optical industry at Bayne Optical, where he received his apprenticeship. He then went on to work at J.L. Hudson's Optical Department for over 15 years. Irv was a stay-at-home “Pop” before opening his own business, Chelsea Eyeglass Company, in April of 1984, which he successfully ran for 31 years, retiring in 2015.

Irv was extremely devoted to his family and friends. He took great pride in leading the annual Canadian fishing trip to Lake Wabatongushi. Over 80 people have had the opportunity to share in this experience with Irv over the past 50 years. Irv’s favorite pastimes were playing cards, enjoying campfires, a good cigar while riding his John Deere, and just being outdoors.

He was very passionate about supporting many organizations in the Chelsea Community. Irv always had his door open to anyone, whether they were there for business or to “bend” an ear. He faithfully went to the Chelsea Retirement Home to fix the glasses of his customers whenever needed. Irv was a member of Msgr. Hunt K of C Council No. 3312 where he was a 3rd and 4th Degree member, Grass Lake Lions Club, President of the Chelsea Lions Club, and member of the Chelsea Rod & Gun Club.

Irv is survived by his wife of 50 years, Patty Tabaka, his children, Joshua (Bethany) Tabaka and Karen Paul both of Chelsea, Michigan, and six grandchildren: Jacob, Nathan, Matt, Abby, Alex, and Andrea. He is also survived by his siblings: Joe Tabaka, Elaine Cotant, Greg (Geri) Tabaka, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters, Joan Long and Del Paputa, and brother, Larry Tabaka.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church, 14200 East Old U.S. Hwy 12, Chelsea, Michigan, 48118, on Saturday, May 4, 2024, 11:00 a.m., with Fr. David Stawasz officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Saturday from 10-11 a.m. Family and friends are all invited to a luncheon following the service at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1515 South Main Street, Chelsea, Michigan, 48118, as we continue celebrating Irv’s life.

Irv was a lifelong Spartan fan and requested that family and friends, if they so desire, wear their green and white.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Irv's honor to the following: Chelsea Rod and Gun Club, St. Louis Center, Chelsea, Our Savior Lutheran Church, Chelsea.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Robert J. Andre

Robert J. Andre, age 81, of Stockbridge, MI, passed away on April 16, 2024 at his home.

Robert was born on May 1, 1942 in Windsor, ON. He had lived in the Stockbridge area since 2012, moving from New Baltimore, MI. He proudly served in the US Army. He was a self-employed mechanic, specializing in diesel engines. He enjoyed hunting, especially duck and goose.

Robert is survived by a step-son, Steven Diabo of Stockbridge; and his siblings, Anita Andre and Marcelle Andre. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carol A. Hunt, in 2002.

A private burial will take place at Michigan Memorial Park in Flat Rock, MI.

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

Claude L. McEldery

Claude L. McEldery, age 83, of Chelsea, MI, formerly of Chesterfield Twp., passed away peacefully on April 23, 2024 at the Chelsea Retirement Community.

Claude was born on June 6, 1940, in Independence, MO, the son of James and Alice (Carey) McEldery. For many years, he called Chesterfield Twp. home and dedicated over 55 years as an electrician. He was a life-member of Local IBEW #58 in Detroit, MI.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Claude possessed a profound passion for astronomy. His love for the cosmos led him to remarkable heights. Serving as the esteemed director of the Detroit Astronomical Society, Claude's expertise graced the pages of Sky and Telescope Magazine, solidifying his legacy among fellow enthusiasts. While his gaze reached for the stars, Claude's heart remained tethered to the roots of his family tree. Genealogy was not just a hobby but a cherished pursuit, weaving together the threads of generations past. He also found joy in singing and playing the piano throughout his life. He was a member of the Community of Christ (Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints). Claude's life was a constellation of passion, love, and dedication.

Claude is survived by his children, Jeffrey (Rebecca) McEldery of Grass Lake, and Elizabeth (Paul) Ramey of Windsor, Canada, along with four cherished grandchildren. He is also fondly remembered by his siblings: Linda (Charles) Priest, Harold McEldery, and Alan McEldery, all of Missouri, and James (Pam) McEldery of Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his second wife, Gayla, and a sister, Margaret McEldery.

A Graveside Service will be held on Thursday, April 25, 2024, at 1:00 p.m., at Oak Grove East Cemetery in Chelsea, MI, with Pastor Eric Stricklin officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Community of Christ.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Arista Cole

Arista Cole, age 82, of Jackson, MI, passed away on April 22, 2024. Arista was born on December 27, 1941 in Hindman, KY the daughter of Virgil and Lydia (Short)Thomas. She had lived in Michigan for 60 plus years.

Arista found joy in the simple pleasures of life, tending to her garden with care and curating a collection of treasures that reflected her unique passions. She had an unwavering love for her family. Her kitchen was a central hub, where she delighted in cooking for her loved ones, ensuring no one left her home with an empty stomach. She also enjoyed listening to family play music.

Arista was married to Howard H. Cole, and he preceded her in death on January 20, 2009. She is survived by four children: Loretta Wright of Munith, Roberta Marie Roach of Munith, Howard Cole Jr of Leslie, and Shannon Cole of Jackson; ten grandchildren,13 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild; her siblings: Juanita Bailey of Michigan Center, Randy (Sheila) Thomas of Kentucky, Bennie Thomas of Jackson, RJ Thomas of Tecumseh, Mike Thomas of Homer, Wanda Riddle of Parma, Louise Pharris of Kentucky, and Dallie Anderson of Illinois. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Detta Cole, two grandsons, Jesse Cole and Eric Vanderpool, a step-grandson, Jake Sandford, and four siblings, Gary Thomas, Corrine Campbell, Phyllis Dysert, and Rose Thomas.

A Graveside Service will be held on Thursday, April 25, 2024, 10:00 a.m., at Pleasant Grove Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one's choice.

Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Bradley J. Roe

Bradley J. Roe, age 60, of Webberville, MI, passed away on April 22, 2024, at the Hospice House of Shiawassee County in Owosso.

He was born on November 29, 1963, in Ann Arbor, MI, the son of Arthur and Judith (Price) Roe. On August 19, 1995, he married Krystal L. (Walker) in Dansville, MI, who survives him.

Bradley is survived by his loving wife, Krystal, three children: Brandi (Jon) Kolasa of Mason, Hunter Roe of Dansville, and Johnny Craft Jr. of Pleasant Lake; seven grandchildren; his mother, Judith Roe of Holt; siblings: Arthur (Nona) Roe of Leslie, Kelly (Shelly) Roe of Chesterfield, and Jeffrey (Jennifer) Roe of Potterville. He was preceded in death by his father, Arthur Roe, nephew Anthony Roe, and a son Jaycen Glynn.

Bradley lived in Ingham County his entire married life. He was an avid outdoorsman, finding joy in hunting, camping, snowmobiling, and mowing his yard. He also cherished riding his Harley and cruising in his '74 Road Runner. Many fond memories were shared with family and friends at his cabin up north.

Visitation will be held on Friday, April 26, 2024, at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Private burial will take place at Washtenong Memorial Park in Ann Arbor, MI.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Compassus Hospice and Missy Hill and Kylee Ross, his nurses, for the exceptional care they provided.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shiawassee Hospice House or Disabled American Veterans (DAV).

Gerald "Jerry" R. Spain

Gerald “Jerry” Roger Spain, age 86, of Gregory, MI, passed away on April 17, 2024.

Jerry was born on February 5, 1938 in Chicago, IL, the son of Roger and Fern Spain. He was raised on a dairy farm in Denmark, WI, just south of Green Bay. He had many fond memories of a good and happy upbringing.After graduating from high school, he moved back to Chicago, the city he became to love. On May 19, 1973, he married Kathleen P. (Kubes), and they enjoyed over 50 years of marriage.

A proud veteran of the US Army, Jerry served as an artillery surveyor at Ft. Sill, OK from 1961-1963. His job with Schwinn Bicycle Company led to his transfer to Michigan as Regional Sales Manager. He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Chelsea. He loved animals, wildlife, nature, and working outdoors. He enjoyed cooking on the original Weber cooker and had interest in British sports cars, owning a few in his lifetime. He had artistic talent and could make or fix anything. He was the original handyman.

Jerry had the Irish sense of humor and was affectionately called “Spain” often, explaining the name was Irish not Spanish.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Kathy, sister-in-law, Bonita Brandt, brother-in-law, George Kubes, and sister-in-law, Rebecca ( Robert) Doomis, as well as his kitty, Rachel.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to all the staff at Brookdale Assisted Living in Ann Arbor and Residential Hospice for their caring and kind service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Huron Valley or St. Mary Catholic Church.

Mass of Christian Burial will be prayed at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea on Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea. The family will receive friends at the church on Wednesday from 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Randall R. Conley

Randall R. Conley, age 56, of Jackson, MI, passed away on April 15, 2024 at his home.

Randy was born on December 4, 1967 in Jackson, MI to James and Irene (Bailey) Conley. Randy graduated from Stockbridge High School in 1986. He worked as a machinist for Rosedale Products for many years. He enjoyed fishing and hunting, and spending time with friends playing cards.

Randy is survived by a brother, Ricky (Karen) Conley of Tennessee, his special cousin Sarah and several other cousins as well as an Aunt Myrtle and Uncle Bill. He was preceded in death by a brother, Richard Conley, and his parents.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, April 19, 2024, 2:00 p.m., at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home in Stockbridge, MI, with Pastor Jeff Howard officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 1-2 p.m. A private burial will be held at Munith Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family. Make checks payable to Sarah Potts.

Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.

Sarah J. Hanson

Sarah Janet Baughn Hanson, age 90, of Jackson, MI, formerly of Stockbridge and Saline, passed away on April 5, 2024.

She was born in Milan, MI on February 12, 1934, the daughter of C. Ruth Forsythe and James H. Baughn. She grew up in Milan and graduated from Milan High School in 1952. She attended Hiram College in Ohio and Michigan State Normal College in Ypsilanti, MI. Later in her life she returned to college at Eastern Michigan University, where she majored in English literature and writing. She was a lifelong reader and lover of classical music.

On June 16, 1955, she married Warren G. Hanson, and in 1959 they moved to Saline, MI, where they raised their three children. Sarah was primarily a homemaker. She was a life-long member of the Presbyterian Church, first in Milan, then Saline and Ann Arbor, and Stockbridge, MI. She was an active member and served as an ordained elder in each church. She was very active in the Presbyterian Women. She was a member of the P.E.O. Chapter W in Ann Arbor. In Saline, she served as a volunteer and an employee of Saline Area Social Services. For a time, she wrote feature articles for The Saline Reporter.

Her husband passed away May 2014. She is survived by her son, Richard Hanson of Dallas, TX, her daughter and son-in-law, Ruth and Anthony Cekola of Portage, MI, and her daughter and son-in-law, Jennifer and Grant Blom of Jackson, MI. Her greatest joys in life were being a grandmother and great-grandma to Victoria Cekola, Glen Pulk, Sarah (Tyler) Ockert, and Oliver and Eleanor Ockert.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 27, 2024, 12:00 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church of Stockbridge. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will be served after the memorial service.

There will be a private burial service at a later date at Marble Memorial Cemetery in Milan.

Sarah was a bright and beautiful person. The family is requesting everyone to please wear bright colors instead of black.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Presbyterian Church or to Stockbridge Community Outreach.

Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.

Kelli A. Spaulding

Kelli A. Spaulding, age 61, of Dexter, MI, passed away peacefully at her home on November 25, 2023. Kelli was born on October 11, 1962 in Ann Arbor, MI to Duane and Faye (Richards) Cook.

She grew up in Ann Arbor, and she graduated from Chelsea High School in 1980. Kelli enjoyed spending time in nature. She loved her gardens and flowers, and she loved all animals, especially birds. Her favorites were the Hummingbirds and Baltimore Orioles.

Kelli is survived by a son, Dylan Spaulding of Chelsea, a grandson, Grayson Spaulding, and a brother, Clayton Cook of Chelsea. She was preceded in death by her parents.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2024, 11:00 a.m., at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.