Lawrence "Larry" Bean

On May 17, 2024 Larry Bean of Chelsea, Michigan, 64, took his last breath and peacefully passed into the world of endless Caves, Rocks and Coke. What an amazingly special person he was in so many ways! Even on his deathbed, he had that sweet, calm, Larry smile that always warmed the hearts of those around him. I didn't just lose my husband but truly my best friend and partner in life! He was an amazing man and lived every day of his life to the fullest. I do rejoice in the fact that he will no longer suffer, which he has tremendously in the last 3 years, from the cancer beast that moved into our home. Our son Jasper and I shared his last moments together and it was so good to see him finally out of pain. My heart is broken but I am so blessed that he gave me Jasper, and 33 years of endless love and fun!

Larry grew up in the shadow of the Shrine of the Little Flower church in Royal Oak and attended the catholic schools there. He acquired a Master’s degree in his passion in life, Geology, from Wayne State and used that to hold a 34 year career with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, where he regulated landfills as a dual district supervisor. We met at the State District Office, married in 1991, traveled for 10 years and had our son Jasper (named after a Michigan rock of course) in 2001 who has been the complete joy of our life.

The Fisher Ridge Cave System that is one of the longest caves in the world was discovered, explored and mapped by Larry and several other cavers. This was the love of his life before he met me! He loved rock collecting and even collected rare copper crystals in Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula with other geology friends. The rock theme continued into Rock Climbing, and teaching Geology as an adjunct professor at the University of Michigan Dearborn and Eastern Michigan University. He taught many local people, young and old alike, a love of rocks at the Waterloo Geology Eddy Center for many years.

He loved reptiles and snakes and cared for several box turtles as pets for over 30 years which gave him the name “Uncle Turtle” by his many nieces and nephews. Larry and I shared a love of all things old and found our dream 1870 historic home in Chelsea and filled it with antiques from our hobby of going to auctions. Trains of all sizes were another passion of his and he held the position of President of the Chelsea Depot Association for several years.

Larry was a one in a million person who had an infectious lifelong childlike wonder of everything around him. He was a little boy in a man’s body and he made life fun for all around him. He never had a mean thing to say about anyone and was very loving, forgiving and patient. I will carry him in my heart forever and look for him at the rainbow bridge in paradise!

Funeral will be held at the Chelsea Depot on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. with viewing from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Larry would not have wanted flowers, but for donations to go to the Chelsea Depot Association which he loved dearly!

Elaine M. Palmer

Elaine Marie (Hadley) Palmer, of Ann Arbor, MI, passed away in May 2024 at the age of 94.

Elaine was born in June 1929 in Arlington, California the daughter of Charles and Elba (Stone) Hadley. She lived in Riverside, California during her early years. Her Scots-Irish and Cherokee families had moved from Ohio and Oklahoma like so many in those days to seek a more prosperous life in the lush landscape of California. Her father maintained orange groves, and her mother ran a dress shop while raising their two daughters together.

Always a precocious learner, Elaine started college at the University of California, Berkeley at the age of sixteen. She never completed her college education, because at the age of eighteen, she married the love of her life, Ted Palmer.

The two had met several years earlier when Ted’s older brother married Elaine’s older sister, and they married after Ted’s service in World War II. Ted and Elaine remained completely devoted to each other for their entire 73-year marriage.

The new couple lived in California briefly before returning to Ted’s hometown of Ann Arbor, Michigan. There, Elaine had a fulfilling career as the assistant to the dean of the University of Michigan Business School, Dr. Floyd Bond. She drove to work in her 1966 Ford Mustang and parked it right in front of the school every day.

Elaine had begun bowling in California when her husband helped manage a bowling alley with a long-time buddy, Al Dean. She continued enjoying the sport by participating in a women’s bowling league in Ann Arbor. After she retired from the University in the fall of 1983, she and Ted enjoyed playing several rounds of golf each week, always with one of their beloved cocker spaniels in tow. On one occasion, Elaine shot a hole-in-one, and Ted was so impressed that he created a large sign for their home so that all would learn of her golfing prowess.

When at their beautiful home on the near-westside of Ann Arbor, Elaine and Ted spent many hours gardening, reading, and squirrel-watching in their glass-enclosed sunroom. Through the years, they also maintained an historically accurate General Store in the basement of their home. Ted taught at the local junior high school and would bring his students to come and “shop” while learning about life in the previous century. Ever the consummate hostess, Elaine would supply the popcorn and soda pop and play the player piano for all their guests.

Although they never had children of their own, Ted and Elaine forged close ties with their many nieces and nephews. They followed their trajectories closely including the Springer, Newman, and Wilson families in Michigan, the Gerald Palmer family in Oregon, and the Harry Palmer family in California. They also “adopted” many other family members—the children of their close friends, Al and Jeanne Dean and Parker and Sally Pennington; their “Georgia family,” the Thrifts; Mark Wing and Jan Cashin; and their many neighbors on Wesley Street.

Every summer for much of their married life, the Palmers drove their Ford Econoline camper van to Fripp Island, South Carolina, where they maintained a cottage, affectionately known as “the tree house” due to its unique architecture. Over the years, they entertained many friends and family on the island, taking them to walk the beach, collect seashells, and enjoy the abundant local wildlife. The couple also made several trips during summer breaks to see family in California, and Elaine cherished a special Hawaiian vacation she took with her sister, Martha. As Elaine would say, they were “two peas in a pod” and had a special bond throughout their lives.

In her last few years, Elaine was tended to by a team of private caregivers who dedicated their time, love, and devotion to her every need. They always said that she made their job easy, because she never complained and always greeted them with a bright smile. They would agree that no one else on the planet has ever had such a sunny disposition. Up until the last days of her life, Elaine enjoyed going to Music and Movement classes, concerts, and religious services at her assisted living facility.

Her husband, Edmund L. “Ted” Palmer, parents, sister, and several in-laws predeceased Elaine. She is survived by many friends and family in California, Colorado, Georgia, Michigan, Ohio, Oregon, and Tennessee. She will be missed by many.

Funeral Services will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, 901 N. Main St., Chelsea, on Friday, May 24, 2024, 10:00 a.m. where the family will receive friends from 9-10 a.m. Elaine will be laid to rest with her husband, Ted, and her mother-in-law, Mabel Tanner Palmer at Washtenong Memorial Park in Ann Arbor.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Huron Valley, 3100 Cherry Hill Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, or to the charity of your choice.

Jerrold "Jerry" Jbara

Jerrold “Jerry” Jbara, age 59, of Chelsea, MI passed away May 13, 2024 at his home. He was born to Jerrold and Lois (Lambrix) Jbara on January 2, 1965 in Trenton, Michigan.

Jerry married the love of his life, Dana (Sullivan) Jbara and was father to four children, Allen, Morgan, Cailyn, and Irelynn. Dana and Jerry started their life together in Trenton, MI, lived 12 years in Vail, Arizona, and most recently made their home in Chelsea, MI for the past three years.

Jerry was such a fine, kind, and intelligent man and a loving husband and father. The earth was better with him on it! Jerry graduated from Lawrence Technological University and worked as a brake engineer for Kelsey Hayes/TRW in Michigan. He then worked as an aerospace engineer at Raytheon in Arizona and continued working for them in Michigan.

From a young age, Jerry enjoyed cars and working on them with his father, which led to him teaching his own girls all about taking care of them. You could even find Jerry running a science program at their school. He enjoyed the great outdoors in all seasons. He spent time camping, boating, hiking, hunting, and snowmobiling to name a few.

Jerry especially loved simply spending time with his family. From dancing at family gatherings, to watching his children play sports, to teaching his daughter how to drive, it was his joy! He also really enjoyed riding on jeep trails with his brother and nephew.

He was heavily involved in his church in Tucson, where he was a member of the Knights of Columbus. He was a selfless volunteer and was always helping others.

In addition to his wife, Dana, he is survived by his brother and sisters, Beth Groves, Jean (Jeff) Lee, Lisa (Jim) Leduc, Chris (Jennifer) Jbara, Charles (Mandi) Sullivan, Shannon (Eric) Brandt, and was preceded in death by his father, Jerrold S. Jbara. Jerry also leaves behind nieces and nephews, Jon (Eunice), Jacob (Jill), Lauren, Maddie, Parker (Samantha), Logan, Olivia, Matthew, Andrew, Jaidyn, Jalie, and Patrick; great-nephew and great-nieces, Elyanna, Liam, Rebekah, and Raven; along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Mass of Christian Burial will be prayed at St. Mary Catholic Church, Chelsea on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, 11:00 a.m., with the V. Rev. Dr. William J. Canon Turner officiating. The family will receive friends at church on Tuesday from 10-11 a.m.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Tiffany A. Keith

Tiffany Anne Keith, of Jackson, MI, age 42, passed away on May 12, 2024 at Henry Ford Jackson Hospital. She was born on June 27, 1980, in Lansing, MI, the daughter of Michael and Cathy Sue (Lawrence) Green.

Tiffany found immense fulfillment in her role as an occupational therapist, touching countless lives with her dedication and compassion. Her strength was matched only by her gentle heart, a quality cherished by all who knew her. On October 31, 2016, she married Deanna (Miller) in Jackson, MI.

Tiffany found joy in spending time with family. She adored her nieces and nephews, and her faithful dog, Kookie, and her beloved cat, Woogie. She also loved spending time at the beach. Tiffany leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness, forever etched in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

She is survived by her devoted wife, Deanna, her brothers, Michael Keith and Brian (Audra) Keith, numerous nieces and nephews, and her step-father, Gary Rhoades. She was preceded in death by her parents.

A private service and burial will be held at a later date.

In honor of Tiffany's memory, memorial contributions may be made to the Faith Haven Care Center Tiffany A. Keith Memorial Garden Fund.

Arrangements by Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home, Stockbridge.

David W. Brudon

David W. Brudon, of Chelsea, MI, age 72, passed away on May 12, 2024 at his home in Chelsea, MI.

David was born on November 19, 1951 in Ann Arbor, MI, the son of William and Doris (Turner) Brudon. He spent his formative years in Ann Arbor, where he cultivated lifelong passions and friendships.

David dedicated over two decades of his career as the Director of Marketing for the University of Michigan Hospitals. A true people person, David found joy in every interaction. He loved a good round of golf, going to the theater, and classic movies—particularly black and white and WWII films. An avid reader and music lover, he found joy in all genres of music and literature. He played the tuba and drums. David's artistic spirit also found expression through his keen eye for photography, capturing moments of beauty and meaning. He loved all animals, especially dogs. His legacy of kindness, compassion, and warmth will forever be treasured by those fortunate enough to have known him.

David is survived by his two children, Nicholas Brudon of Ann Arbor, and Lindsey (Johann) Morse of Marysville; the mother of his children, Lynne Brudon; three grandchildren Anden, Ayla, and Avery; his loving companion of the past five years, Beverly Sisler; one brother, James (Lucia) Brudon of Melrose, FL and a sister, Claudia (Brad) Ewald of Oregon. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his step-mother, Margaret Brudon.

Private interment will take place at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Chelsea, MI.

A Celebration of Life take place on Saturday, June 1, 2024, from 2-4 p.m. at 435 Stein Rd., Ann Arbor. After the gathering, the family plans to meet up at Cleary’s Pub in Chelsea to continue the fellowship and raise a glass to David.

Memorial contributions may be made to Faith in Action or the Humane Society of Huron Valley.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

Minnie E. Maier

Minnie Evelyn Maier, age 87, of Chelsea, MI, formerly of Gregory, MI, passed away on May 9, 2024 at her home in Chelsea, MI.

Minnie was born on November 6, 1936 in Arkansas, the daughter of Alfred and Claris (Koser) Moss. She married William A. Maier on July 26, 1967, and they lived in Gregory for many years. They enjoyed nearly 46 years of marriage before he passed away in 2013. She moved to the Pines in Chelsea in 2021.

Minnie's life was a testament to her boundless energy and generous spirit. She worked for the Secretary of State for over 25 years. She also volunteered her time working the elections. She also enjoyed volunteering and spending time at the Chelsea Senior Center where she had many friends. She enjoyed the many trips she took with the Chelsea Seniors. She also enjoyed walking, immersing herself in the pages of a good book, and trying her luck at the casino. Most of all she loved spending time with her family, especially her grandbabies.

Minnie is survived by five children, Ross (Heather) Maier of Jackson, Robert (Cheri) Maier of Virginia, Richard (Delores) Maier of North Carolina, Randall (Jodee) Maier of Westland, and Ronald (Kay) Maier of N. Carolina; 13 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; her siblings: Steve (Sue) Moss of Milan, Lewis (Shirley) Moss of Gregory, and Ina Chabot of Elk Rapids, and many nieces and nephews.

A luncheon and celebration of life will be held on Monday, May 13, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. at the Gregory Community Church, 126 Church St., Gregory, MI.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Chelsea Senior Center.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.

Armand F. Beduhn

Armand Forrest Beduhn, age 87, of Gregory, MI, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2024.

Armand was born on October 25, 1936 in Fowlerville, MI to Forrest and Gladys (Aldrich) Beduhn. He had lived in Livingston Co. most of his life where he remained active in farming. He raised draft horses and was a member of the Michigan Draft Horse Breeders Association. He enjoyed tractor pulls and traveled all over going to tractor pulls. He mostly liked International and Allis Chalmers tractors. In the 1980's he started working for R.W. Humrich and Sons Farm as a farm mechanic where he worked for many years.

Armand married Patricia Ann (Kunzelman) on February 20, 1959 at the Plainfield United Methodist Church. They enjoyed 44 years of marriage. They were both immersed in the Gregory Community, the farming community, as well as the Plainfield United Methodist Church. Armand is survived by one son, Jared (Christine) Beduhn of Gregory; his siblings, Gerald (Irene) Beduhn of Howell, Janet Boseson of Fowlerville, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Pat, in 2003, and three siblings, Harland Beduhn, Janice Rasgen, and Gloria Knickerbocker.

Visitation will be held at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home on Tuesday, May 14, 2024 from 5-7 p.m., and on Wednesday from 10-11 a.m.

Funeral Services will be held Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home with Pastor Missy Noll officiating. Burial will follow at Plainfield Cemetery in Unadilla Twp. Memorial contributions may be made to the Plainfield United Methodist Church.

Ruth L. Chadwell

Ruth L. Chadwell, age 96, of Chelsea, MI, passed away on May 9, 2024 at Chelsea Retirement Community. Ruth was born on March 28, 1928 in Roaring Spring, PA, the daughter of Roy and Irene (Thomas) Delozier.

She married Harry P. Buberniak on May 19, 1949 in Philadelphia, PA. They lived in Southgate, MI for 30 years, where they built several homes and raised their family. Harry passed away on December 31, 1984.

She also lived in Ypsilanti, MI where she belonged to Ypsilanti Twp. Seniors and St. Matthew's United Methodist Church in Ypsilanti. She married Floyd Chadwell Jr. on October 16, 1996, and they enjoyed 12 years of marriage until his passing on January 13, 2009. She then moved to Portland, MI to be near family, and attended both the Portland United Methodist Church and the First Congregational Church of Portland. In 2019, she moved to the Silver Maples Retirement Community in Chelsea.

Ruth's life was marked by love, creativity, and a deep-rooted connection to family and faith. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and had many close friends. She was an artist and loved nature. She found joy in painting nature and scenery, both oil and water color canvas, and writing poetry.

Ruth is survived by her three children, Harry (Michele) Buberniak Jr. of Ottawa Lake, MI, Susan (Paul) Caines of Chelsea, MI, and Jo Anne (Kurt) Hinds of Portland, MI; ten grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Darlene Scott and Beverly Karns, both of Pennsylvania. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Harry, second husband, Floyd; four brothers, Roy Delozier Jr., Wilford "Willy" Delozier, Clair Delozier, infant Donald Lee Delozier; and two sisters, Betty Amick and Freda Manspeaker.

Funeral services will be held at the Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., with Pastor Joy Barrett officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 9:00-10:00 a.m.

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

Memorial contributions may be made to the UMRC Heritage Fund or the Arbor Hospice Foundation.

Donna M. Pierce

Donna M. Pierce, age 87, of Chelsea, MI, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2024, at home surrounded by her family. Donna was born on February 7, 1937, in Battle Creek, MI, the daughter of Paul and Nellie (McKinney) Steeb.

On July 7, 1956, she married the love of her life, Donald F. Pierce, in Ann Arbor, MI. They made their home, and raised their family, in Chelsea. Together, they embarked on a journey of nearly 66 years of joyful companionship. Donna and Don shared a passion for life, family, travel, and creating beautiful memories together.

Donna's creative spirit found expression in various forms, from her skillful photography to her intricate knitting, crocheting, quilting, and sewing projects. She and Don enjoyed traveling the country and spending time with their family at their cottage in Houghton Lake. In retirement, they wintered in Florida and enjoyed many hours walking the beach, looking for sand dollars and shells.

Donna is survived by her three daughters, Kathryn Pierce of Chelsea, Cynthia Dunlevy of California, and Karyn Zaitonia of Chelsea; her five beloved grandchildren, Jeff, Jenny, Ali, Pierce, and Kailey; her two cherished great-grandchildren, Willow and Wren; her brother, Richard Steeb; her sister, Nancy Stoddard; nieces, Sheryl, Jill and Kelley; nephews, Dennis, Mark, Kevin and Chris. Donna was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Don, in April 2022.

Donna was a loving mother and grandmother who taught her family to be creative and see the beauty in all things. She will be greatly missed.

Per Donna's wishes a small family gathering celebrating her life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home.

James Edward Stephens

James Edward "Eddie" Stephens, age 92, of Jackson, MI, formerly of Munith, MI, passed away on May 3, 2024. Eddie was born on April 14, 1932 in Allen, KY, the son of Thomas and Anne (Watkins) Stephens. He moved to Munith, Michigan when he was 15 years old, where he lived for most of his life. He proudly served his country in the US Army during the Korean War, and continued to serve in the US Army Reserves for several years.

Eddie's legacy is one of service and dedication. He worked for the Oldsmobile plant in Lansing for many years. Praised as an expert driver, his skillful maneuvers allowed him to load the cars at the Oldsmobile plant with precision or back up a semi into tight spaces. His family lovingly referred to him as a human GPS. He knew the lay of the country and could take you anywhere. Eddie also enjoyed farming and raising pigs. He was also an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting and fishing.

Above all, Eddie was a devoted family man, finding his greatest joy in the company of his loved ones. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. Eddie married Callie (Anderson) on December 29, 1954 in Angola, IN, and they enjoyed nearly 48 years of marriage. She preceded him in death on April 14, 2002.

Eddie is survived by his son, Jim (Donna), daughter, Pati (Jim), and son-in-law, Steve; grandchildren, Steven, Becky (Tom), David, Kellye (Evan), Beth, and Jessie (Justin); great-grandchildren, Nathan, Bristol, Virginia, Callie, and Remington; and his in-laws, Harry, Mary Ellen, and Jerry. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Debbie, great-grandson, Wyatt, and siblings, Tom, Velton, Willie, Oneeda, and Maggie.

Private services were held at the Caskey-Mitchell Funeral Home in Stockbridge and he was laid to rest with his wife, Callie, at Fitchburg Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Mikey & Me animal shelter.

When times were tough, Eddie always said, "It's just one of those things..."