Welcome West Branch High School Alumni Association West Branch, Michigan

CLASS OF 1953

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Alumni Banquet Dinner Reservations .... 2021

Mary Anne Whitchurch Tuck
George Barry Wilkinson
Ron Stephens
Bill Meiser
Joan Winter Spurlin
Doris Melrose

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Sharlene Rose Killinger
July 17th, 1948 - February 2nd, 2021
Age: 72 years

Sharlene Rose Killinger, age 72, passed away on Tuesday, February 2, 2021 at her home in West Branch. She was born on July 17, 1948 in West Branch to William and Mary (Delmotte) Good. Shar lived in West Branch her whole life. She enjoyed going to the casino, playing cards, bingo and camping.

Shar is survived by her children, Allen (Karen) Killinger of West Branch, Joseph (Karen) Killinger of Grand Rapids, Mary (Gary) Moore of West Branch, Steve (Lori) Killinger of Rockford, Bonnie (David) Baca of New Mexico, and Cherri (Harry) Briggs of West Branch; grandchildren, Jenifer, Matthew, Tylor, Stacie, Sarah, Ali, Katie, Jake, Brian, Brittany, Brock, Nicole, Justin, Gary, and Greg; numerous great grandchildren; siblings, Bill and Roseanne Good of Pearland, TX, Linda and Lloyd Miles of West Branch, and Charlie and Judy Good of Alger; and many nieces, nephews, friends and extended family.

Shar is preceded in death by her parents, husband, Orville Mort Killinger and great grandchildren, Devon and Hayden Cahill.

Visitation at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch will begin on Monday, February 8, 2021 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. A private funeral service will be held. Burial will be at Brookside Cemetery in West Branch. Rev. Brenda Klacking will officiate.
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SHARROW, Jo Ann Dent - Age 84, of Flint, died February 18, 2020. Funeral services will be held 1PM Saturday, February 22 at Twin Cities Baptist Church 5339 S. Saginaw Flint. Pastor Michael Chang officiating. Visitation will be held 11AM Saturday until the time of the service at the church. Arrangements provided by Sharp Funeral Home & Cremation Center 6063 Fenton Rd. Flint. Those desiring may make contributions to Twin Cities Baptist Church. Jo Ann was born June 5, 1935 in Mt. Pleasant, the daughter of Robert and Thelma (Offield) Dent. She Married John "Jack" Sharrow on October 19, 1954 in Indiana. She enjoyed reading, knitting, cooking and spending time with the grandchildren. Jo Ann was a member of Twin Cities Baptist Church. She retired from Grand Blanc Schools with 22 years of service. Jo Ann is survived by her children, Debbie (Jim) Block of Otter Lake, Jackie (Mike) Boven of Otter Lake, Bob (Debbie) Sharow of Davison, Barbara (Brian) Robertson of Grand Blanc, David (Tiffany) Sharrow of Burton; grandchildren, Josh, Ashley, Chris, Matt, Lacey, Tyler; great-grandchildren, Madie, Charlie, Bella, Bentley, Rylee, Lilley, Sadie; sisters, Marge Ball of Midland, Claudia Simmons of FL.; brother, Kurt (Connie) Dent of West Branch; many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brother, Terry Dent; sister, Vivian Guarge.
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Patrick "Pat" McCormick
Obituary

U.S. Veteran

Patrick D. McCormick, 84, of Cumberland, passed away peacefully with his family by his side Wednesday, October 2, 2019. He was the beloved husband of Elizabeth (Gibbons) McCormick. Born in Flint, Michigan, he was the son of the late James F. and Lucile (Olmsted) McCormick.



Patrick served in the all volunteer Mobile Construction Battalion (Special) from May 1955 through March 1957. The battalion's mission was to begin construction of several scientific stations on the continent and it was the first American contingent to spend the entire winter in Antarctica. Patrick served a total of 14 months, nine days in Antarctica, 29 days of which were at the Geographical South Pole and the remainder at McMurdo Station as part of Operation Deep Freeze I and II.



Patrick was a Registered Land Surveyor working for Gordon Archibald, Bristol Associates, Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc. as well as his own business McCormick Survey before retiring in 1997. He was past president and charter member of the Rhode Island Society of Professional Land Surveyors.



Besides his wife, he is survived by his children, Monica McDougall and her husband John, Robyn Graham and her husband Curtis, Michael McCormick and his wife Debra, Maureen McCormick and her husband John Picone, and Elizabeth Harrison and her husband Robert. He also leaves thirteen grandchildren: Vanessa McDougall, Elise Fuentes and her husband Casey, Caroline Graham, Colleen Graham, Robert Graham, Laura Graham, Amanda McCormick, Sarah McCormick, Elliott Picone, Kathryn Picone, Elizabeth Harrison, Megan Harrison and David Harrison. He was the brother of the late Robert McCormick, Lowell McCormick, Mary Jane Sapp, and Natalie Livsey.



The Funeral will be held Tuesday at 9AM from the O’Neill Funeral Home, 3102 Mendon Road, Cumberland followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10AM in Saint Joan of Arc Church, 3357 Mendon Road, Cumberland. Burial will be in Saint Jean-Baptiste Cemetery, Bellingham, MA. Relatives and friends are kindly invited. Visiting hours Monday from 4-7PM.



In lieu of flowers, donations to Home Hospice & Palliative Care of RI, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI, 02904, in memory of Patrick, would be appreciated.



Nancy Aitcheson Moore
Arvetice Awrey
Joyce Bair Parliament
Mildred Barnum Card
Jack Belanger
Mike Bohlinger
Max Boman
Arnold Brewer
Don Brick
Douglas Brindley
Joyce Brown Sharrow
Charles Carscallen
Agnes Dauphenais Hendershott
Bernice David Muehlfeld
Donald Dawes
William Deering
JoAnn Dent Sharrow
Mildred Duchane Munn
Jean Fox Myas
Joan Fox Lee
Thomas Gehl
Beverly Gelinas Demarest
Jack Gillies
Beverly Grezeszak Schneider
Virginia Hoy
Doris Humphrey Mainprize
Geraldine Johnson David
Steve Karafa
Frances Kellogg Cahill
Irving Killinger
William King
James Kolb
Virginia Kozlow Trout
Robert Lally
Orville Loomis
Leona McAllister Carroll
Patrick McCormick
Carl Meiser
William Meiser
John Middleton
Doris Melrose Frank
Francine Miller Fegan
Rockford Neville
John Ouderkirk
Joanne Pearson Cottle
Shirley Petrovish Casey
John Reetz
Mildred Remilong Wangler
Patricia Reminder Meiser
Glenn Richardson
Dean Schmitt
Dean Schubert
Phyllis Sergent Earley
Robert Sharrow
Richard Sheppard
Ronald Stephens
Malcolm Stephenson
Beverly Tank
Ruth Thomas Ferguson
Jackie Thompson Felske
Nelson Thorn
Bernadine Velte Braithnaite
Aileen Wangler Vroman
Mary Anne Whitchurch Tuck
Myrna Whitmill Piar
Michela Wilcox Young
G. Barry Wilkinson
Roy Wiltse
Joan Winter Spurlin
Doyle Winter
Steve Zsidi
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Mildred “Mickey” Jane Wangler, nee Remilong Smith,  83, class of 1953 West Branch High School, West Branch, Michigan, passed away on January 30, 2019 at home with her family in Jensen Beach, FL. 

Mickey was born on a raspberry farm on October 11, 1935 in Prescott, MI to Helen and Louis Remilong, and was the tenth of eleven children. In her lifetime she both attended a one-room schoolhouse and used an iPhone. Mickey had a strong sense of family values and was a devoted wife and mother. She married Clarence “Sonny” Wangler (1931-1986) with whom she raised three children in Keego Harbor, MI. Mickey’s career included work as a babysitter, bicycle factory worker, restaurant manager, and certified home healthcare aide. After Mickey retired she split her time between West Branch, MI and Apache Junction, AZ with her second husband Charles Smith. Mickey could do anything she put her mind to. Above all, she was practical and loving, and lived her life with a strong sense of self, an abundant intellect, and a great sense of humor. She enjoyed playing scrabble, bingo, cards, matchmaker, and was an accomplished seamstress. She loved the outdoors, mushroom hunting, deer hunting, bargain hunting, fishing, boat rides, storytelling, and cooking. Her house was a home to all and she always had a delicious pot of something simmering on the stove: bean soup, salsa, goulash. Mickey was one of a kind. 

Mickey will forever be remembered by her husband Charles “Charlie” Smith; children, Jim (Sue) Wangler, Gerry (Sarah) Wangler, Karen (Ron) Brittian; step-children Linda (John) Clute, Chuck (Shari) Smith, Karen (Robert) Hoffman, David (Annette) Smith, Cheryl (Terry) Hargraves, Lisa Almaraz, Kitty Jervis; her grandchildren Melissa Wangler, Jim (Melissa) Wangler, Tim Wangler, Jake Wangler, Alex Brittian, Sarah (Kevin Avery) Wangler, Joe Brittian, Natasha Brittian; her great-grandchildren Brendan, Andrew, Connor, Hallie, Juniper and Viola; her sisters Joanne Walters and Peggy Nelson; and also by her many step-grandchildren and step great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, cousins and dear friends. 

Obituary for John Henry Middleton Sr.

John Henry Middleton Sr., age 82, passed away on February 23, 2018 at the West Branch Regional Medical Center with his family by his side. John was born July 12, 1935 to Robert and Verna (Staley) Middleton in West Branch, MI. John was officially married to Connie McLeod on July 26, 1993 but were together for over 37 years. John retired after 25 years from West Branch Rose City Area School Maintenance Department. He belonged to the West Branch Moose Lodge, and the West Branch Eagles. He loved hunting, fishing, and horses. He was fun loving and for always had joke ready to share. But most of all he will be remembered for loving his family with everything he had.



Surviving family members include his wife of 24 years Connie Middleton of West Branch, children Ramona (Chet) Wolosonowich of West Branch, John H. Middleton II of West Branch, Scott (Debbie) Middleton of West Branch, Thomas Middleton of West Branch, Robert Verran of West Branch, Jeannie (Tim) Greer of West Branch, Tricia (Shawn Lydic) Knowles of Bay City, and Michelle Middleton of Deltona, FL. John had 27 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren, the Lyons’ families’ and many nieces and nephews. John was an extended father, grandfather and great grandfather to many! He is preceded in death by his parents Robert and Verna Middleton, sons Michael and Steven Verran, grandson Jeffery Wolosonowich, sisters Wilma, and Jenny, and brothers Robert and Harry.



Visitation for John will be held Saturday, March 3, 2018 from 1-9PM at the Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch. His celebration of life party will be held Saturday, July 14, 2018 from 1-?, at 811 W. M-55 West Branch, MI 48661. (the old corn stand)



Memorial Contributions can be made to the family of John H. Middleton Sr.

To send flowers or a remembrance gift to the family of John Henry Middleton Sr., please visit our Tribute Store.

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Stephen Zsidi, 84, of Prescott passed away Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2018, at the West Branch Regional Medical Center.
He was born in Prescott April 27, 1933, to Ernest and Mary (Garis) Zsidi. He served in the U.S. Army from 1953-1955. Stephen married the former Dorothea Neville on Sept. 14, 1957. Stephen retired from the Whittemore-Prescott Area Schools where he worked as a custodian. He loved gardening, hunting, fishing and cutting wood. He enjoyed his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.



Stephen is survived by his wife, Dorothea of Prescott; children, Stephen (Rose) Zsidi of Prescott, Rose (Michael) Stone of Prescott, Bonnie (Richard) Borushko of Whittemore, Joseph (Kathy) Zsidi of Whittemore and Kathy (Dave Coenen) Neubecker of Prescott; 16 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; brother, Charles Zsidi of Tennessee; and a sister, Mary Yennior of St. Helen; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, Joseph, Ernest, Michael and Anton.

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Jackie Thompson Felske
12/11/2016
Jacklyn Dawn Felske of Tawas City passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Sunday, Dec. 11, 2016 at Lakeview Manor Healthcare Center, age 81 years. 
Jacklyn was born on Oct. 25, 1935 in Quanacassee to Roy and Virginia (Champine) Thompson. She married Lyle Felske in 1956 and together they celebrated 60 beautiful years of marriage. In 1958, she and Lyle moved to the Tawas area where they raised their four children. 
She worked for 20 years as a real estate agent in the Iosco County area. In 1981, she and Lyle started a new adventure and opened Felske's Market in East Tawas. They worked together and operated the market until their retirement in 1997. 
Jacklyn always enjoyed camping, going to casinos, fishing and baking. She will dearly be missed by all who knew and loved her. 
Jacklyn is survived by her beloved husband and best friend, Lyle Felske of Tawas City; four loving children, Denise (Scott) Spaid, Mike (Rita) Felske, Dana (Steve) Foley and Dawn Varney; grandchildren, great grandchildren, seven brothers and sisters, many nieces and nephews, and so many special friends. Jacklyn was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Pat McDonald; and a beautiful great granddaughter, Stella. 
***

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Donald D. Tuck, age 86, of Houghton Lake passed away on Friday February 24, 2017 at Mid-Michigan Medical Center in Midland with his loving family by his side.

Don was born on April 22, 1930 in Beaverton, Michigan to Orin and Eva (Page) Tuck. Don graduated from Houghton Lake High School. He served in the US Army during Korean Conflict. Don was married on October 1, 1955 at the Houghton Lake United Methodist Church to Mary Anne Whitchurch. The couple was fourth marriage ceremony that the church had performed. He was the owner operator of Tuck's Ace Hardware. He was a member of the Merritt-Butterfield United Methodist Church and a former member of the Houghton Lake United Methodist Church. He enjoyed hunting, ice fishing, working and spending time outdoors. 

Surviving Mr. Tuck are his loving wife of 62 years, Mary Anne Tuck of Houghton Lake; sons, Craig (Julia) Tuck of Greenville, Chris Tuck of Houghton Lake, daughter-in-law, Joanne King Collins Tuck of Traverse City, two grandchildren, sister-in-law, Thelma Tuck of Gaylord. Don was preceded in death by his parents, son Tim, brother Larry and sister Mildred. 



EARLEY, Phyllis - Of Flint, age 81, died Sunday, May 22, 2016 at her residence.

 

                       

Phyllis was born in West Branch, Michigan on December 13, 1934, the daughter of the late Benjamin and Clara (Rau) Sergent and was a resident of Flint since 1967. She attended high school in West Branch, Michigan and graduated with the class of 1953.She was a member of Lamb of God and member of Flint Banjo Club.

 

Surviving are children, Greg, (Kathy), Susan Kay, Karen (Dan) Smith and Don (Lenore) and their families;

 

2 sisters and 2 brothers.

 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Arnold and 2 brothers.

 

 

                                                                                                                                            
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Natalie L. (McCormick) Livsey, 84, of Midland, passed away peacefully at home Nov. 10, 2015. She was born on March 24, 1931 to the late James F. and Lucile (Olmsted) McCormick in Flint. She spent her early years in West Branch and Sterling. After graduating from Sterling High School in 1949, she returned to Flint to attend her mother's alma mater, Hurley Hospital's School of Nursing. Natalie established strong, lasting friendships with her classmates that endured for over sixty years. Her nursing career began in West Branch at Tolfree Memorial Hospital. The proximity from the hospital to the neighboring Texaco station provided her the opportunity to meet her future husband, "Fran the Texaco man." On Feb. 6, 1954, they were married at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in West Branch. With jobs less than plentiful in northern Michigan, Natalie and Fran moved to Redford Township. There they raised their three daughters. Natalie continued her nursing career at Redford Community Hospital and Botsford Hospital. The time spent in the metro Detroit established lifelong friendships, including her "Pinochle Club" that never really played Pinochle, and a vast network of friends from St. Agatha Parish in Redford Township. Natalie loved life and enjoyed it on so many levels â€" picking huckleberries along the trout streams, camping with family friends, making pies, playing cards on the weekends, sitting on the beach, exploring fire trails or shopping for just one more pair of shoes. Natalie's special kindness made her a source of support to many. She always found time for others and supported her family with hard work, love and generosity. After retirement, Natalie and Fran enjoyed more than twenty years in Florida. Once again their spirit of fun allowed them to add more friends to their network. Natalie discovered golf and beach clubs that made it easy for her to forget Michigan's frosty winters. In 1993, the two made their way to Midland. Here, she again made more friends and thoroughly enjoyed her twilight years. Family was of great importance to her, keeping tabs on everyone. Whether she be near or far, her heart was always close to her family. A true grandmother, she was a source for treats and playtime. Her children and grandchildren were a source of great pride. She will be greatly missed by all. Natalie is survived by her daughters, Ann (Dennis) Orrey of Brentwood, Calif., Laura (Dave) Naudi of Brighton, and Amy (Dave) Sommer of Midland; grandchildren, Jonathan Naudi, Jeffrey (Emily) Naudi, Brandon Lehr (Brandon Andrew), Ashley Lehr, Bradley Sommer, Brendan Sommer, Stephen Sommer and Scott Sommer; and great-grandchildren, Carter Naudi and Elise Naudi. She is also survived by her brothers, Robert (Betty) McCormick and Patrick (Betty) McCormick; and her sisters-in-law, Ruth Livsey and Betty McCormick. Natalie was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Jane Sapp; and brother, Lowell McCormick. 
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CHARLES "CHARLIE" CARSCALLEN
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           CARSCALLEN, Charles 8/6/1935 - 3/12/2015 Charles Harvey Carscallen (Charlie), age 79, passed away on Thursday, March 12, 2015 at his home in Venice, FL. He was born and raised in West Branch, MI and graduated from The University of Michigan. He retired from John Hancock in 1987. Charlie is survived by his wife of 57 years, Betty Lou, his son, Charles H. Carscallen, Jr. (Cutty) and wife Caye; his daughter, Mary Morgan and husband Bill; and his daughter-in-law Beth Carscallen. His son, Greg Carscallen, precedes him in death. He has six grandchildren, Kate Carscallen, Caroline Carscallen, Chase Carscallen and his wife Macy, Christopher Carscallen, Mackenzie Morgan and Macy Morgan.
 We will always remember his love for traveling, wearing sweaters in the summer, and his countless attire of bucket hats that always made us smile. He will forever wear maize and blue.

 
Robert "Bob" E. Carroll
(June 11, 1935 - December 16, 2013)

 

Robert

U.S. Veteran

Robert E. Carroll, age 78, passed away Monday, December 16, 2013 at Bortz Health Care in West Branch, MI. Bob was born to James and Ruth Carroll on June 11, 1935 in Capac, MI. He was a member of St. Helen Community Baptist Church and American Legion in Detroit, MI. Bob enjoyed golfing, cooking, baking, and baseball.

Bob is survived by his children; Natalie (Joe) Polzin of Cedar Rapids, IA and Robert (Diane) Carroll of Shelby Twp, MI, his grandchildren; Andrew, Adam, Michael, Cassie, Luke, Ashley, Matthew, Jonathon, Julie and Michael, and his great grandchild; Sophia. Also surviving is his brother, James Carroll of West Branch, MI and his sister, Elizabeth Campbell of St. Helen, MI and many cousins. Bob is preceded in death by his wife, Lee Carroll and his brother, George Carroll.

Visitation at the St. Helen Community Baptist Church will begin on Saturday, January 11, 2014 from 12 p.m. until the time of service at 1:00 p.m. Pastor Ken Peterson will officiate. Memorial Contributions may be made to Hospice of Helping Hands..........

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LALLY, F. ROBERT "BOB"
Age 77 of Jackson, died November 3, 2013 in the comfort of his home after a three year courageous battle with cancer. Bob was born in West Branch, Michigan on January 25, 1936 to Frank and Maude (Barnard) Lally. He graduated from the University of Michigan in 1958 and began his working career at Young, Scutt and Breitenwischer, of which he was a partner. Eventually Bob and his business partner, James Gough cofounded Lally and Gough, Certified Public Accountants. He retired after 40 years of dedicated service from Lally, Cummings, Palmer and Patch; now known as The Lally Group. Bob is survived by his spouse of 60 years, Barbara (Fitzgerald) Lally and his four children, Beth (Mark) Miller, Luanne (Randy) Mehelich, Michael Lally and Laurie (Jerry) Thompson; his nine grandchildren, Amy (Joe) Smith, Allisyn (David) McKnight, Sarah (Adam) Soper, Anna Thompson, Erin (Jason) Hepner, Joey Mehelich, Zach Mehelich, Brittany Lally, Nichole Lally, his eight great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and dear friends. Bob was preceded in death by his sisters, Josephine Eddolls, Dorothy Lally, Jean Thompson and his brother William Lally. Per his wishes, Bob will be cremated and there will be no services to take place. Donations in his honor can be made to The Salvation Army
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UNKNOWN ADDRESSES

Joyce Bair Parliament

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DECEASED CLASSMATES

Charles Carscallen
(March 12, 2015)

Mildred Duchane Munn
2/14/15
Bob Carroll
(December 16,2013)
 
 
Bob Lally
(November 3, 2013)
 
LaVern "MAX" Boman
(December 10, 2012)
 
Leona McAllister Carroll
(February 12, 2011)
 
Irving L. Killinger
(October 9, 2010)
 
Arnold Brewer
(June 11, 2010)
 
Arvetice "Louie" Awrey
 (9/24/09)
 
Thomas Gehl
(April 20, 2009)
 
Beverly Gelinas Demerest
(St.Joe)
(October 31, 2008)

Douglas Brindley

William Deering

Virginia Farrington Bailey

Doug Gregg

Bill King
(1991)

Virginia Kozlow Trout
(1994)

Patricia Reminder Meiser

Dean Schmitt
(January 5, 2004)

Malcolm Stephenson

Nelson Thorn
(2000)

Myrna Whitmill Piar
(November 1998)

Michela Wilcox Young

Doyle Winter
 
Francine Miller Fegan
(September 29,2006)
 
Orville Loomis
(October 9, 2007)
 
* * * * * * * * *

Mildred “Millie” Munn

Died Feb. 14, 2015

 

Mildred Duchane Munn, 80, of Cary, N.C., passed away Feb. 14, 2015, due to congestive heart failure.

Millie was predeceased by her husband, Dale Niles Munn in 2002; and her parents, Martha Gordon and Frank Duchane.

Millie is survived by her two children, Susan Stines (Billy) of Erwin, N.C., and Gary Dale Munn (Wanda) of Creedmoor, N.C.; four grandchildren, Jeffrey Stines, Bryan Stines (Ana) of Raleigh, N.C., Elizabeth Lively (Scott) of Salem, Va., and Jennifer Munn of Charlotte, N.C.; and one great-grandchild, Clifford (Cliff) Munn Lively. Millie is also survived by one sister, Dorothy Sherlock of Michigan; as well as many nephews and nieces.

Mille was an avid bridge player and worthy opponent in poker. She enjoyed beach trips where the extended families gathered often to reminisce and spend time together. Millie was a long-standing member of White Plains Methodist Church in Cary. Millie was a bookkeeper by profession and worked at the Monsanto and AVX credit unions after relocating to North Carolina from Michigan in 1967.

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Chester Surline, Supt.
Hollis Miner, Principal
Joan M. Winters, Class President
Alan Murray, Class Advisor
Lucille MacArthur, Class Advisor
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LaVern "MAX" Boman

Bay City lost a lot of character on December 10,2012 when LaVern "Max" Boman cashed in his chips.
 "Max" was born on March 26, 1935 to LaVern and Virginia Boman. He spent much of his childhood in Detroit. In the 1940's,
Max and his family moved to the Gladwin area and established the Tittabawassee Resort, a hunting camp on the Tittabawassee River, now known as the Lost Arrow  Resort.
 
Max attend high school at West Branch High School in West Branch, Michigan and graduated with the class of 1953.
 
Max became an avid hunter and trapper and as an adult told many stories of his life on Bowmanville Road.
 
In 1958, Max married Phyllis Kitts and settled in Bay City. They had four children, Randy, Lynn, Kristie and Bryan.
 
 Max was a member of the Asbestos Workers Local 47, first as a pipe insulator and later as a business Agent. Many people knew Max as a staunchy labor organizer. 
 
 
 He enjoyed hunting with his father, LaVern and son, Randy. Surviving family includes his daughers, Lynn Lutgen and Kristie Boman; his grandsons, Jon and Conor Lutgen; and his long-time friend and casino companion, Gwen Poole. Max Was preceded in death by his sister, Jackie, his parents, and his sons, Randy and Bryan.
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Margaret Banghart Wilkinson Hayes
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Margaret Eileen Hayes (Nee Banghart) passed away at Harlin House on June 29 in West Branch, at the age of 96. She was born on December 23, 1914 in Saginaw, MI to Elmer and Elizabeth Mable (Dyer) Banghart.

Margaret moved to Sterling, MI from Detroit in 1946 after the loss of her husband George A. Wilkinson, a professional musician, from the effects of an airplane crash on August 11, 1945. She moved to West Branch in 1947 and along with her brother Ronald Banghart, opened the Ogemaw Airpark on M76, six miles south of West Branch, where she and many local men and women learned to fly light aircraft under the watchful eyes of Bud McFadden and Mark Maisonville the flight instructors.

Margaret loved being with family and friends and she drove a school bus for several years. She was always the lady in her manner and thinking. When traveling with her first husband, she was often the roommate of the band singers. One notable singer was the future actress, Betty Hutton. She married Carl Hayes on September 21, 1951 in West Branch, and has been a devoted wife and mother for over seventy-six years. Margaret is survived by her husband, Carl Hayes and five children, G. Barry Wilkinson  ( Class of1953)(Janet) of West Branch, Brian L. Wilkinson (Class of 1961) of Oviedo, FL, Mark E. Hayes of Bastrop, TX, Kerry T. Hayes (Joyce) of Venice, FL. and Tim F. Hayes of West Branch. She is also survived by seven grandchildren, Barry J. Wilkinson (Bernadette) of Saugus, MA, Mary N. Wilkinson of Peabody, MA, Dalen (Burt) Colucci of Jonesboro, AR, Lindsey Wilkinson of Oviedo, FL, Krystil N. Hayes of Texas, Taylor M. Hayes of Texas, and Seamus K. Hayes of Denver, CO and one great grandchild, Dominic Colucci of Jonesboro, AR.

Margaret was cremated and burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery in West Branch.

Leona McAllister Carroll
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Lee Carroll, age 76, passed away Saturday, February 12, 2011 at her home in St. Helen. Lee moved to St. Helen in 1995, after living in Shelby Twp. and Sterling Heights for many years. Lee was born January 1, 1935 in Fenton, MI and married Robert E. Carroll on March 22, 1955 in West Branch. She was a member of the class of 1953 at West Branch High School. She was also a member of the St. Helen Community Baptist Church and the Creative Arts Association of West Branch. Lee enjoyed walking, gardening, golfing, sewing, and spending time with family, especially her grandchildren. Lee was a very accomplished artist including watercolor, oil painting, and charcoal. She loved to take her artistic ability and volunteer to help others. Lee will be remembered for the strength of her faith and her deep love for family.

Lee is survived by husband, Bob Carroll of St. Helen, daughter, Natalie (Joe) Polzin of Cedar Rapids, IA, son, Robert (Diane) Carroll of Shelby Twp., grandchildren, Andrew, Adam, Michael, Cassie, Luke, Ashley, Matthew, Jonathon, Julie, Michael, and one great-granddaughter, Sophia. Also surviving is brother, Otis (Pamela) McAllister of Kentucky, sister, Carol (Don) Kruse of Lake Ogemaw, sister-in-law, Lola McAllister of West Branch, sister-in-law, Betty Campbell of St. Helen, and brother-in-law, James Carroll of Rose city. She is preceded in death by parents, Otis and Leola McAllister, father and mother-in-law, James and Athleen Carroll, and brother, Bruce McAllister.

 

 

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Members of the 1953 West Branch Public School basketball team, last week played their last regularly scheduled game, finishing the season with a record of 13 wins and 3 losses, two of which were league contests. They will enter state tournament play at the local gym Thursday evening seeking the class C crown.  Left to right they are:front row, Thomas Sauve, Roene Stoudt, Bill Meiser, Edwin Ostrander and Bob Lally. Back row, left to right, coach John Janisch, manager Richard Hughey, Bill King, Pat McCormick, Gale Sullivan, Dean Schmidt, Dick Hewson, Dick Cowles and manager John Wilcox.
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Barry Wilkinson
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Class of '53 in 1952 as Juniors...
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Irving “Kelly” Levi Killinger, 76, passed away Saturday, October 9, 2010 at his home surrounded by his family. Kelly has been a resident of West Branch his whole life. Kelly was an active member of the community, he had helped many people throughout the years whether it be welding or just lending a hand. He was a contract welder for Marathon Oil Company and owned Kelly & Son Welding. He as was a member of the Moose Lodge, the Eagles, and the American Legion Post #103 of West Branch. Kelly loved fast pitch softball and golf. He volunteered as an umpire for the local little league and was awarded little league volunteer of the year in 2006. Most of all Kelly loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them.

Kelly is survived by his wife Maggie Killinger of West Branch, his children Debra Kennedy, Terry (Susan) Killinger, Jim (Paula) Killinger, and Timothy (Christina Mathe) Killinger all of West Branch. He has 13 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren. Two brothers Vernon (Cora) Killinger of West Branch, and Melvin (Diane) Killinger of Rose City; 4 sisters Etheline Awery of West Branch, Dorothy Bigalow of Belaire, Jane Bangart of Clare and Yvonne Delmonte of West Branch. He is preceded in death by 2 brothers Orville, and Harley Killinger.

Visitation for Kelly will be held Monday, October, 11, 2010 from 5-9PM and Tuesday, October 12, 2010 form 12-9PM at the Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch. His funeral will be held Wednesday, October 13, 2010 at 1:30PM at the funeral home. Father Patrick Maher will officiate.

Memorial Contributions can be made to the family

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Arnie and Barb
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Arnold K. "Arnie" Brewer, 75, of Washington Township, died Friday, June 11, 2010.
He was born Oct. 25, 1934, the son of Lester and Evelyn (Hanks) Brewer. He married Barbara Jo Embury.
Mr. Brewer was a longtime member of the Washington Lions.
He is survived by his wife, Barbara Jo, of 51 years; five children, Brett of Washington Township, Scott of Rochester Hills, Michael (Tamara) of Washington Township, Penny Paris of Washington Township and Joseph (Christine) of Romeo; six brothers; two sisters; and nine grandchildren.
Services were held Monday, June 14, at Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons Inc. in Shelby Township
A graveside service was held at Brookside Cemetery in West Branch, Monday, June 15th at 1:P.M.
Many people attended including classmates Ron and Carol Stephens, Barry Wilkinson,Max Boman, Don Brick, Jack Belanger and wife Patty, Bill Meiser, Geraldine Johnson David, and Mary Anne Whitchurch Tuck and her husband Don.
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Arvetice Awrey
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Class of 1953

Arvetice “Louie” Awrey passed away Thursday September 24, 2009 at the Bortz Health Care in West Branch. He was born April 7, 1935 to Pete and Louisa Awrey. Louie has been a resident of West Branch his whole life. He enjoyed antique trading; spending time with his family and he loved his grandchildren dearly. He also served in the US Navy.

Surviving family include his wife of 52 years Joyce Awrey of West Branch, daughter Joyce (Mike) Hyde, son Rod (Brenda) Awrey, Brian (Tricia) Awrey, Barry (Brenda) Awrey, and Ray (Lisa) Awrey all of West Branch. Thirteen grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parent’s two brothers and one sister.

Visitation for Louie will be held Monday September 28, 2009 from 11:30 – 1:30 PM at the Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch. The funeral will also be held Monday at the Funeral Home at 1:30PM. Pastor Tom Teall will officiate. Burial will be held at Brookside Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions can be made to the family.

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Senior Class Trip To Washington DC Class of '53
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Jim Kolb, Ron Stephens, Max Boman, Mary Anne Whitchurch

Mary Anne Whitchurch Tuck and Don
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Arnie and Barb Brewer

Barry Wilkinson, Mary Anne Whitchurch Tuck
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Arnie Brewer,Jean Fox Myas, Gerry Johnson David

Mr. & Mrs. Barry Wilkinson
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Barry 1953 and Janet Zettle Tobin 1956 Wed 1/18/008

This photo was taken on April 12, 2008 at the wedding reception for Barry and Janet Zettel Wilkinson...
 

News article from the Ogemaw Herald about their meeting after 53 years...click here...

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 Thomas W. Gehl, age 74 of West Branch, passed away Monday, April 20, 2009 at West Branch Regional Medical Center after a brief illness. He had lived in West Branch for most of his life. Tom served in the U.S. Navy and he retired from Kent J. Chadwick Inc. in 1992. Tom was a member of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Local 486.

Survivors include his children, David (Dawn) Gehl of Bay City, Bill (Laurie) Gehl of California, Bob Gehl of Connecticut, Matthew Gehl of Colorado, Sue (Rich) Heavlin, Melissa (Dan) Weiler and Nancy (Arrin) Swiatowy all of West Branch and 11 grandchildren. Also surviving are his brothers, Leo Gehl and Gene (Maxine) Gehl both of West Branch and his special friend, Alice Koenig of West Branch. He was preceded in death by his wife Trina in 2003, a grandson Jacob and 2 brothers, John and Leon.

Five Generations....Twins Prevail
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Joan Fox Lee...Class of 1953...

Great Grandmother,Joan Fox Lee,is seated in the lower right hand corner of the picture, holding Brianna while standing behind her is the Mother of the twins, Melissa Lyons, holding Jason..Seated next to Joan is Great Great Grandmother Crystal Fox.
Standing at the back beside Melissa is Grandfather Ed Zettel.

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Beverly I. Gelinas Demerest 
 of West Branch, died October 31, 2008 at her home after a long illness. She was born on October 12, 1935 to Edward and Alvena (Green) Gelinas in West Branch. She married James Demerest in West Branch. He preceded Bev in death.

Bev had lived in West Branch most of her life and was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church.

Bev is survived by her children Daniel J. (Debra) Demerest of Saugatuck, LeeAnn M.(Michael) Wade of Houghton Lake and Mark D. (Linda) Demerest of Grand Haven. Also surviving are 7 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Bev also leaves behind 2 sisters, Elaine Heisler of Waterford and Shirley (Don) Myas of Kalkaska and a brother Nelson (Shirley) Gelinas of Kalkaska and a brother-in-law Bob Leslie of Freeland. She is preceded in death by her sister Joyce Leslie.

The family will receive friends on Sunday from 1:00PM to 9:00PM at the Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home, West Branch. Scripture Services will be Sunday at 7:00PM. The funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday at 11:00AM from St. Joseph Catholic Church in West Branch with burial in St. Joseph Cemetery

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Orville Loomis..Class of 1953
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1934-2007

Orville Loomis...Class of 1953
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Francine Miller Fegan..Class of 1953
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1935-2006

Francine Miller Fegan...Deceased September 29,2006
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