Gary L. Graves ~ Dec. 23, 1955 — May 6, 2024
Gary L. Graves, 68, of West Branch, passed away on May 6, 2024, at home surrounded by his family after a long battle with Parkison’s Disease.
He was born on Dec. 23, 1955, in Flint to Lewis and Hazel (Miracle) Graves.
Gary attended Ogemaw Heights High School and later earned his GED. Gary owned a business, Gary & Sons Swings & Things, where he created cedar yard swings, wishing wells, lawn ornaments and pretty much anything made out of wood. In 2019, he retired from the Ogemaw Public Transit after 26 years.
He loved fishing, spending time with his children and grandchildren, swimming, camping, rodeos, and woodworking.
Gary married Fern Risley on Aug. 25, 1979, in Clio. The two were inseparable for nearly 45 years.
He is survived by his loving wife, Fern; four children, Shawn (Gary) West, Michelle (Mark) Fedder, Joe Graves, Zac (Brittany) Graves; seven grandchildren, Kaitlynn, Caleb, Makayla and Briellen West, and Coltin, Levi, and Natalie Graves; sisters, Janet Graves, Fern Rembowski, and Nora Mears; and many nieces and nephews, including “favorite” niece Angie Brookshire.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Hazel; sister, Ann Boucher; two infant brothers, Terry and Randy, and many other loved ones he will be joining in heaven.
Visitation was held from on Thursday, May 9, at Ogemaw Hills Free Methodist Church in West Branch with the funeral service following. A graveside service was held at Campbell Corners.
Arrangements were handled by Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch. Online condolences can be shared at www.steuernolmclaren.com
Dorn William Morse ~ Oct. 12, 1951 — May 1, 2024
Dorn William Morse, age 72, passed away on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at MyMichigan Medical Center in West Branch. He was born on Oct. 12, 1951, in Saginaw, to his loving parents, William and Marylou (Miller) Morse. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Dorn lived in Lupton, since 1999, formerly of Birch Run.
Dorn led a fulfilling life marked by dedication and hard work. After graduating from Birch Run High School in 1969, he embarked on a successful career journey. Dorn wore many hats during his professional life; he drove trucks, worked as a local delivery driver, managed Texaco in Birch Run, and spent 23 years at Anderson Window Corporation as a carpenter and fork truck driver. His commitment and work ethic were truly admirable.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Dorn had a kind and generous spirit. He found joy in volunteering with the West Twin Lake Association, showcasing his selflessness and community-minded nature.
In his leisure time, Dorn indulged in various hobbies including hunting, camping, embarking on up north trips, and enjoying rides on his side-by-side vehicle. These activities brought him immense happiness and allowed him to create cherished memories with his loved ones. He loved the lake and his neighbors.
Dorn will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his devoted wife of 45 years, Sandra Morse of Lupton; loving sons Erik (Sheryl) Morse of Battle Creek, and William Morse of Flint; grandchildren Erika and Vincent, who brought him great pride; brother Chadwick (Cindy) Morse of Holland, Mich, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
A visitation to honor Dorn’s life took place on Sunday, May 5, at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch from 1 to 5 p.m. with a time of sharing at 3 p.m.
Dorn William Morse leaves behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, and love that will forever be remembered by those whose lives he touched. May he rest in peace.
Memorial contributions can be made to a veteran organization of your choice.
Carl Andrew Karpuk ~ Jan. 12, 1959 — April 12, 2024
Carl Andrew Karpuk, known to many as “Andy,” passed away peacefully at his home April 12, 2024. He was born in Saginaw on Jan. 12, 1959. Andy led a fulfilling life characterized by dedication and hard work.
A man of many talents, Andy worked in various capacities throughout his career. He honed his skills as a drywaller and specialized in small engine repair for many years. Additionally, he contributed his expertise to Hock Painting and SRE Painting as a painter, leaving a lasting impact through his craftsmanship.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Andy found true joy in spending time with his family. He was described as honest and hardworking, traits that endeared him to all who knew him. An avid hunter and fisherman, Andy also cherished moments riding his Harley Davidson, embracing the freedom of the open road.
Andy’s legacy is carried on by those he held dear. He is survived by his son, Keith (Cassie) Lindow of Macomb; granddaughter Brooklyn Sayan of Macomb; ex-wife Beth Lindow of Pinconning; sister Luann Schmiegel of Saginaw; sisters Carol (Kim) Geitman of West Branch, Kimberly (Lance) Whitefield of Prescott, Mary Karpuk of Saginaw; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Preceding Andy in death are his parents, Donald Sr. and Martha (Phillips) Karpuk, along with brothers Donald Karpuk Jr. and Claire Karpuk. May they find peace and reunion in the afterlife.
In remembrance of Andy’s life, visitation took place at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch on April 20, officiated by Chaplin Victor Schreffler.
Carl Andrew Karpuk will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to his craft and the love he shared with those around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Edward R. Schmitt ~ Sept. 30, 1943 — April 25, 2024
Edward R. Schmitt, “Ed”, passed away on April 25, 2024, in Lupton, which he referred to as “God’s Country”. He lived at the lake with the love of his life, Karen. He was born on Sept. 30, 1943, in Saginaw. Ed owned Schmitt Dental Laboratory for over 35 years, succeeding his father.
A man of many talents and interests, Ed graduated from Saginaw High School in 1961. His true joys were found outside of work. He had a profound love for nature and wildlife, often spending his days feeding birds and deer while watching them with great delight. Fishing was another passion of his which he shared with his dear friend, Mike LaLonde. Ed’s faith was an important part of his life. He was confirmed on April 14, 1957, at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Saginaw, and later served as Elder at Faith Lutheran Church, Bridgeport, and St. John Lutheran Church, West Branch.
Ed’s loving family survive him, his devoted wife of 62 years, Karen Schmitt of Lupton; daughters Ann M. Schmitt of Lupton, Vicki L. (Rev. Richard) Lewis of Marion Springs, and Susan K. (Frank) Tschiggfrey of Lupton; grandchildren Andrew (Melissa) Berkobien, Steven Berkobien, Amanda (Brandon) Stamper, and Justin (Callie) Lewis; great-grandchildren Hailey, Ella, Aza, Eden, Josiah, and Ezra; sisters Katherine (Dennis) McCaffrey and Charlotte (Larry) Schwab; and brother George F. Schmitt, as well as many nephews and cousins.
In his passing, Ed was reunited with loved ones who went before him, his best friend Mike LaLonde; granddaughter Madelynn Margaret Tschiggfrey, his parents, Reinhold F. and Rosella K. (Pillsbury) Schmitt, and mother in-law Helen DeFore.
Friends and family paid their respects at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home, in West Branch on May 1, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and at St. John Lutheran Church, on May 2, with the funeral service at 11 a.m. Pastor Carl Petzold officiated.
Memorial contributions can be made to St. John Lutheran Church in West Branch or St. John Lutheran Church in Marion Springs.
Ed will be deeply missed. May he rest in peace.
Ronald Wesley Udell ~ July 26, 1965 — April 29, 2024
Beloved husband, brother, father, and the best papa, passed away at Ascension St. Mary’s Hospital in Saginaw, on Monday, April 29, 2024. Ronald Wesley Udell, age 58, was born on July 26, 1965, in Flint, to the late Wilfred Udell and Donna Dallaire.
Throughout Ron’s life, he had many different jobs. He was a jack of all trades. If there was something he couldn’t do or didn’t know how to do, he made a point to learn how to do just that. He was a different breed of man for sure. His best job ever was being papa.
Ron moved to Skidway Lake, in 2005 with his wife Melissa, and three boys. He married the love of his life on June 25, 2005. He loved going camping with his wife and boys, sitting around campfires, and going to the beach with his grandkids.
He loved taking car rides with his beautiful wife Melissa. They would take many trips up to the family’s cabin in Atlanta. He was an amazing cook and could make anything taste good. He was the one who always said grace for dinners and holidays. He was a member of Northern Michigan Church of Christ in Roscommon. Ron is going to be deeply missed by everyone that was in his life.
Ron is survived by his loving wife, Melissa Udell, who shared over 30 years together; sons Chris, Nick (Breann) and John (Crystal); bonus daughter Annie (Richie); grandchildren Heartlynn, Irelynd, Avery, Nicholas, Ellaina, Daniel, and Hazel; brother Rodney (Carmylia) Udell; sisters Lisa Udell, Melanie Udell, and Michelle (John) Davis; dog kids Isys and Bozzi; and longtime good friends Jerry and Geraldine.
He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Bernard A. and Treva E. (McGahey) Dallaire. Ron was very close to his grandma, Treva. They had a very special relationship.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 27 at 2 p.m. at the Whittemore Fire Hall, 508 S. Bullock St., Whittemore.
Alan Harold Artibee ~ April 24, 1938 — April 28, 2024
Alan Harold Artibee, age 86, passed away on Sunday, April 28, 2024, at his home in West Branch. Born on April 24, 1938, in Swartz Creek, to Arthur and Hannah (Splaine) Artibee. He was a dedicated firefighter, beloved community member, and devoted family man. Alan leaves behind a legacy of service and kindness that will be cherished by all who knew him.
During his 21-year tenure as a firefighter for Flint Township at Station #1 from 1968 to 1989, Alan exemplified bravery and selflessness in the face of danger. His commitment to protecting his community extended beyond his work as a firefighter. He also served as an EMT for Flint Township and worked as a General Motors Production Inspector. Additionally, Alan dedicated five years of his life to John Kline Mortuary Removal in Flint Township.
Described as a kind-hearted and generous individual, Alan was always ready to lend a helping hand. His passion for serving others extended to his involvement in churches and various community activities. Alan was a proud member of the Church of Christ on Lennon Road in Flint and the Church of Christ in West Branch, where he found solace and spiritual fulfillment.
In addition to his illustrious career and community involvement, Alan found joy in woodworking, crafts, and attending art shows. His creative spirit shone through in everything he did, leaving a lasting impact on those around him.
Alan is survived by his loving children, daughters Janet Artibee of North Richland Hills, Texas, Joyce Artibee of Flint Township; son Jeffrey (Pam) Artibee of Durand; grandchildren Kirk (Sarah) London and Kyle (Adrienne) Artibee; two great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Shirley Artibee; brother-in-law Leonard Arden.
He was predeceased by his parents; wife Norma; daughter Jean Haskell, and siblings Jack Artibee, Sharon Arden and Kay Hemphill.
Alan Harold Artibee will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His impact on his family, friends, and community will continue to inspire acts of kindness and service for years to come. May he rest in peace.
Visitation at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch was May 2, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The funeral service was held at the West Branch Church of Christ on Friday, May 3, at 2 p.m. Pastor Ron Ledford will officiated.
Memorial contributions can be made to the family.