Shirley Jean Emmons
July 22, 1934 – May 13, 2026
Shirley Jean Emmons, who was born on July 22, 1934, in Laona, Wisc., to James and Dorothy (Mullins) Jameson, passed away on May 13, 2026, in West Branch, Mich.
She spent her entire life working hard and caring for the people and animals she held dear. Her life was shaped by resilience, kindness, and a deep commitment to family, and those who knew her will remember her for her gentle spirit, her honest nature, and the comfort she brought to others simply by being present.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harvey Emmons, in 2014. Their years together were filled with the shared joys and responsibilities of family life, and the bond they built remained an important part of Shirley’s heart throughout her life. She carried his memory with love and grace, and those memories remained a source of strength and reflection in the years that followed.
Shirley is survived by her sons, Frank Emmons, Duane Emmons and his wife Jan, and Harvey Emmons II and his wife Cecilia. She is also survived by her sister, Virginia, along with nine grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. Her family was one of the greatest blessings in her life, and she took great pride in each generation that followed her. The love she gave to her family was steady and unconditional, and her presence will be cherished in the memories and stories they continue to share.
Throughout her life, Shirley worked hard and faced each day with determination. She believed in doing what needed to be done and never hesitated to give her best. Her strong work ethic was a reflection of the values she carried throughout her life, and it left a lasting impression on those around her. She was the kind of person who understood the value of perseverance, responsibility, and loyalty, and she lived those values every day.
Shirley found joy in the simple pleasures that made life meaningful. She enjoyed bowling and loved her dogs, both of which brought her happiness and companionship. Her affection for animals reflected the tenderness in her heart, and her love of bowling gave her a chance to enjoy time well spent and the company of others.
She leaves behind a legacy of strength and care that will continue to live on in her children, grandchildren, and all who were fortunate enough to know her. Though her absence will be deeply felt, her memory will remain a source of comfort and inspiration to those who loved her. Shirley Jean Emmons lived a full life, and her memory will be held close by her family and all who were blessed to share in her journey.
Manuel Soares
Oct. 22, 1948 – May 8, 2026
Manuel George Soares was born on Oct. 22, 1948, in the Azores (Pico Island) of Portugal. He passed away suddenly on Friday, May 8, 2026, in West Branch, Mich., peacefully in the arms of Jesus. He was 77 years old. Manuel was a friendly, loving, caring, and giving person who touched the lives of many.
Manuel first began working with his father at Sunbeam Bakery during summer breaks from school. He then began his main career in sales, selling furniture and flooring in northern California. Manuel graduated from Linden High School in 1967, in his hometown of Linden, Calif. He ran track and once took sixth place in the California State High School Track finals, by running the mile in 4:17, setting a school record. Manuel went on to spend two years studying at San Joaquin Delta College in Stockton, Calif.
Manuel was proud of becoming a naturalized United States citizen on Aug. 15, 1969, a significant milestone in his life after moving from the Azores when he was five years old. In 2012, Manuel moved to Michigan to live closer to his family, a moment he strived for after the first time hearing the words “grandpa” or “avô”.
Manuel was well known in the community of West Branch, often recognized as a familiar face helping at Ana’s Treasures. A devoted member of Faith Alive Church in West Branch, he found great joy in attending church, participating in Bible study and prayer groups, and cherishing the time spent watching his grandchildren in their sports, musicals, and other events.
Manuel is remembered for his warm greeting, often singing, “Come on in, you’re blessed and highly favored,” a statement that reflected his welcoming nature and faith.
He is survived by his loving wife, Lucille M. Sievert-Soares of West Branch; his son, David Soares and Danielle of West Branch; and his cherished grandchildren Felicity, Audrey, and Ethan Soares. His siblings include Rosemary and Brian Peets, Norman and Lynn Soares, and Poldina and Eric Scherff. He is lovingly remembered by his nephews and nieces William and Alex Peets, Lanvin Peets, Ryan and Jemma Soares, Kevin Soares, and Matthew Scherff.
Extended family members who stand by with love are Kimberly and Carl Stieler, Robbie, Bella, Nichole, Jeremy, Josh, Christopher, Jake, Shawn and George Vargo, Ashley, Tanya, and Amber, Fred Sievert, Kris and Tim Strickland, Bernie and Bradley, with numerous great-grandchildren. Additional family include Nancine and Charles Rader, Angela Loomis-Jackson, and Raymond and Deanna Chabot. He also leaves behind his loving church family who he held close to his heart.
Manuel was preceded in death by his parents, Manuel M. and Barbara Da Rosa-Soares, and his grandson, Brent Sievert.
Visitation to honor Manuel took place on May 14, 2026, at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Homes in West Branch. Additional visitation was held on May 15, at Faith Alive Church in West Branch, followed by the funeral service. Manuel’s close friend and Pastor Chad Deerman officiated.
Those wishing to leave a condolence please consider the Faith Alive Missions, or Ana’s Treasures in West Branch.
Manuel George Soares will be remembered for his kindness, his dedication to family and faith, and the warmth he shared with everyone around him. His legacy of love and faith will live on in all who knew him.
Edwin “Ozzie” Ostrander
Oct. 7, 1035 – May 2, 2026
Edwin “Ozzie” Ostrander, age 90, of West Branch, Mich., passed away peacefully on May 2, 2026, in the community he called home throughout his life.
Ozzie was born on Oct. 7, 1935, in West Branch, Mich., to Edgar and Mary Ostrander. He grew up in the West Branch area and was a proud graduate of West Branch High School, Class of 1954. He carried the values of hard work, loyalty, and kindness with him throughout his life, and those who knew him best will remember him as a loving, wise, and generous man.
After high school, Ozzie served his country honorably in the United States Army from 1958 to 1961. His service was an important part of his life, and it reflected the steady sense of duty and commitment that guided him in all that he did. Following his military service, he returned home and built a life centered on family, work, and community. He worked in construction, served as the Ogemaw County Clerk, and later worked as a ranger at the Nightmare golf course. In each role, he was respected for his dependable nature, strong work ethic, and the calm, capable way he carried himself.
Ozzie was involved with St. Joseph Catholic Church and was a member of the K of C Council 2022; his faith was a meaningful part of his life. He lived with a quiet strength and a deep appreciation for the simple blessings of family, friendship, and time spent with others. He enjoyed golf, bowling, fishing, watching sports, and mowing lawns, and he found satisfaction in staying active and keeping busy. Whether he was on the golf course, spending time outdoors, or following a game, he enjoyed life’s everyday pleasures and shared that enjoyment with those around him.
Family was at the center of Ozzie’s life. He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Yvonne (Zettel) Ostrander; his daughters, Debra (Tom) Marshall and Janis (Greg) Phillips; and his son, Mark (Mary) Ostrander. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Eric (Liz) Marshall, Brian (Chelsey) Marshall, Lisa (Devin) Huber, Josh (Tessa) Phillips, Stephanie Phillips, Jenafer Ostrander, and Keri Ostrander (Nick Riegle). He was blessed with 13 great-grandchildren, Thaddeus, Corinne, Adelaide, Eloise, Claire, Hazel, Olive Marshall, Madelynn and Connor Huber, Callum Phillips, Joel and Ellee Parliament, and Bentley Riegle, all of whom brought him great joy. He is also survived by his brother, Dallas Ostrander, along with several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edgar and Mary Ostrander; his sister, C. June Schafer; his great-granddaughter, Paisley Riegle; infant brother, Milton and several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law. Their memories remained close to his heart throughout his life.
Ozzie’s life was one of steady devotion and lasting influence. He will be remembered for the love he gave so freely, the wisdom he shared so naturally, and the generosity that marked his days. His presence will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. Though he is no longer with us, the example he set and the memories he created will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
In lieu of flowers, those planning on an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the wishes of the family which will be donated locally.
A memorial visitation was held at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, with a K of C rosary. The memorial mass was held on Wednesday, May 20, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in West Branch with visitation preceding. Fr. Al Pillarelli officiated. Burial of ashes will be at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.
Online condolences can be shared at www.steuernolmclaren.com
Cynthia Denise Lehman
Jan. 7, 1957 – May 10, 2026
Cynthia Denise Lehman, age 69, known warmly to all as Cindy, passed away suddenly on Sunday, May 10, 2026, in West Branch, Mich., with her beloved husband of 40 years, Mark, by her side.
Born on Jan. 7, 1957, in Newport, R I., Cindy lived a full and cherished life marked by her fun spirit, caring nature, and a special devotion as the best grandma anyone could ask for.
Cindy graduated from Ogemaw Heights High School in 1975, and worked in various jobs throughout her life, including waitressing at local restaurants and housekeeping at the hospital. She also enjoyed her many years as a Brownie Girl Scout leader.
However, the role she treasured the most was being a caretaker, housekeeper, and special family friend to the Hobohm family. They held a special place in her heart, and that bond meant the world to her.
Her interests were simple joys – she loved gardening, baking cakes, traveling, and most importantly, attending family functions and events. Cindy would never miss a single one of her grandchildren’s activities, always showing up with pride and love.
She is survived by her husband, Mark Lehman, of West Branch; her children, Carla (Brant) Gnagey of Bay Port, Marky (Whitney) Lehman of West Branch, and Kayla (Ryan) Rock of Merrill; and her ten grandchildren, Dakota (Rachel), Darrion (Bela), Dawson, Devonee, Raegan, Kannon, Paxton, Austin, Jaxon, and Rhett. She also leaves behind a great-grandson, Theodore; her sisters, Debby (Brad) Kartes, Teresa (Jerry) Wangler, and Kimberly (Paul Worden) Trevithick and her lifelong friend, Sherry. She was a special Aunt Cindy to many nieces and nephews and known affectionately as the “neighborhood Mom” to many others.
Cindy was preceded in death by her parents, William and Sharon (Smith) Harvey and her parents-in-law, Leo and Nedra Lehman.
Services to honor Cindy were held with a rosary on Sunday, May 17, at 4 p.m. Public visitation was from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. respectively at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Homes in West Branch, located at 109 E. Houghton Ave. On Monday, May 18, there was another visitation from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 961 W. Houghton Ave., followed by a Mass at 11 a.m. Cindy was laid to rest at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, West Branch. Father Al Pillarelli officiated.
Cindy’s gentle soul, her laughter, and the warmth she offered to everyone who knew her will be deeply missed. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and a family that meant everything to her.
Those wishing to leave a memorial please consider the Brownie Girl Scouts of West Branch.