Gephart Funeral Home, Inc. & Cremation Services

03/01/2026

Thomas Edmund Janowicz

Thomas Edmund Janowicz, age 84, passed away surrounded by his loving family on February 28th, 2026. Tom was born on April 18th, 1941 in Bay City, Michigan. He spent a lifetime teaching social studies at T.L. Handy and Bay City Western High Schools. Tom also taught thousands of students how to safely drive as a fearless driver instructor for many years. He loved camping in his younger years with his family and friends, and spent his free time bowling, golfing, completing jigsaw puzzles and spending time in the casinos. He loved Pepsi and vanilla ice cream and was averse to most vegetables. Tom was a very active member of the former St. Hedwig’s Church as a commentator, eucharistic minister, usher, and worked funeral breakfasts. He is currently a member of Corpus Christi Parish.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Jan (Janice Banaszak) and was happily married for 58 years. He has three living sons, Brian (Laura), Kevin (Sarah), and Jeff (Erin). He enjoyed spending time with his five grandchildren, Sarah, Tyanna, Ryan, Jack, and Kate, and his two great grandchildren, Maverick and Ace. Tom was predeceased by his son Michael (Bridgitte) and by his brother Bill (Elaine) Janowicz and his sister-in-law Mary Ann Gatza (Floyd).

Continuing his legacy as a teacher, Tom has donated his body to the Wayne State University School of Medicine. A Memorial Mass will take place at Corpus Christi Parish in Bay City on Saturday, March 21st, 2026 at 11:00 am. Visitation with family begins at 9:30 am. Donations in remembrance of Tom can be given to the Corpus Christi Food Pantry.

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02/25/2026

Pre-planning your funeral allows your story to be told your way. 🌿

From music and readings to meaningful details that reflect your life, planning ahead gives you the opportunity to personalize every aspect—while giving your loved ones peace of mind. Thoughtful planning today can become a lasting gift for those you care about most. ❤️

To get started today, visit: www.gephartfuneralhome.com/plan-ahead/planning-ahead

02/23/2026

Sherry Lynn LaBerge

Sherry passed away on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at her home surrounded by her family at the age of 76. The daughter of the late Charles and Rhea (Ulman) Kendall was born December 24, 1949 in Tawas, Michigan. Sherry loved camping with her husband, cooking and baking.

Sherry is survived by her husband of 43 years, Edwin; five children, Kristina, Scott, Eric, Tessa and Sara; four grandchildren, Ryan, Desiree, Octavia and Zoey; eleven great grandchildren; two sisters, Linda and Lori (Ed) and one brother, Gary (Sue). In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her grandson, Shane; sister, Sue and brother, Charles.

Funeral and Committal services will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at Cornerstone Baptist Church. Officiating will be Pastor Tim Chapman. Private interment will take place at Floral Gardens Cemetery. Visitation will take place at Cornerstone Baptist Church on Saturday, March 7, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the wishes of the family.

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02/23/2026

Matthew A. Osborn

Matthew A. Osborn, born on July 8, 1974, passed away peacefully in his residence on February 21, 2026, with his family by his side. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, humor, and love that will be cherished by those who knew him.

Matthew had a great passion for cooking, dedicating many years of his life to the culinary arts as a cook at Bob Evans. His talent in the kitchen was matched only by his brilliant mind and quick-witted humor, which brought joy to family gatherings and friendships alike. Matthew’s laughter was infectious, and his ability to brighten the day of everyone around him will be remembered fondly.

An adventurous spirit, he found joy in exploring the realms of Dungeons and Dragons, and was an avid player of darts. Above all, Matthew had a deep love for his pets, often sharing stories about their antics, which revealed his caring and affectionate nature.

He is survived by his devoted parents, Gary and Linda (Schultz) Osborn; his siblings, Jeff (Julie) Osborn, Brian Osborn, and Stacy (Corey) Randall; nieces and nephews, Justin Osborn, Hannah (Collin) Hamilton, Bradly Ray, Nathan Randall, Savannah (Vinnie) Maguire, and Isaac Randall; a great niece, Luana Randall; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

At the request of Matthew, Cremation has taken place and a Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at Bay Valley Christian Church in Bay City, Michigan. Friends may visit with the family on Thursday, February 26, 2026 from 12:30 p.m. until the time of the service at the church. The Family would like to invite everyone to a luncheon following the memorial service at Bay Valley Christian Church. in lieu of flowers, contributions may be considered to wishes of the family.

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02/23/2026

Larry David Klamer

“For God so loved the world, that he gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” (St. John 3:16)

Larry David Klamer of Bay City, Michigan, fell asleep in Jesus and entered into eternal life with Him on Friday, February 20th, 2026, shortly after being diagnosed with brain cancer. He was born to Albert and Verna (Jungman) Klamer on April 10, 1948 in Gladwin, Michigan, and was united to his Savior Jesus Christ in the waters of Holy Baptism shortly thereafter. On April 25, 1970, Larry was united in holy matrimony to Marie Klamer (née Soehnel) at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Gladwin. Larry and Marie were blessed to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in 2020, shortly before Marie passed away from cancer.

Larry spent countless hours caring for those around him. He worked for the State of Michigan - Department of Human Services for over 30 years, and then worked briefly with Mid-Michigan Community Action before working as an independent consultant. He also devoted his time to caring for members of his family in their final years. Larry enjoyed skiing and golfing, especially with his brother-in-law Tony, deer hunting with family and his son, Lance, on property in Gladwin County, regular weekend visits with his brother, Ron, and weekly dinners with his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Anna and Bill Harper. Larry greatly enjoyed spending time with his four beloved grandchildren, particularly making them his mother’s recipe of egg pancakes, which was a favorite, and taking them for sleepovers and on special outings to putt-putt golf courses and the Bay City State Park, among others.

Larry is survived by his son, Rev. Lance (Melissa) Klamer of Fowler, Michigan, his grandchildren, Lydia, Christiana, Carl, and Jakob Klamer, and his brother, Ron (Josette) Klamer, sisters-in-law Darlene Klamer, Patricia Soehnel, Judy Soehnel, June Soehnel, Anna (William) Harper, and Barbara Handy, and brother-in-law Anthony (Karen) Soehnel, and many loved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his parents-in-law, Joseph and Elizabeth (Slabic) Soehnel, his brother, Duane Klamer, and sister, Ruth Ann (Klamer) Perry; sister-in-law Theresa (Robert) Kozak, and brothers-in-law Francis Soehnel, Chet Soehnel, and Joe Soehnel, as well as nephews Ari Golden and Aaron Soehnel, and nieces Karen Klamer and Mary Ann Kozak.

Larry’s family would like to extend a special thanks for the extraordinary care given to him in his final days to Marie’s sister Anna, and niece Shannan, as well as other family members who helped generously in many ways, and to the staff of Heartland Hospice of both Okemos and Midland for their outstanding care and support. The family also wishes to thank the parish staff of Grace Lutheran Church in Auburn, Michigan, Pastor Aaron Schian and Kantor Nathan Beethe, as well as Pastor Paul Clark and Pastor Tim Bayer for their comforting presence and faithful care.

Funeral Liturgy will take place at Grace Lutheran Church in Auburn, Michigan on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Officiating will be the Rev. Aaron T. Schian. Larry’s family will receive visitors at the church on Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the wishes of the family.

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02/22/2026

Dean Alan Bass

Dean passed away peacefully on Friday, February 20, 2026 at Huron Woods Nursing Home in Kawkawlin at the age of 64. He was born on September 18, 1961 to the late D. George and Angeline (Chantiny) Bass in Saginaw, Michigan. In 1979, he graduated from Reese High School and continued his education at SVSU. He began his working career at Zehnder's of Frankenmuth and Herter Music Center, later retiring as a CNC operator from GM Powertrain after 25 years.

Dean had a passion for music, he played in many bands which included Polka Bands, Community Bands, Pits and Church groups. He was a very talented musician who played several different instruments, tuba, bass guitar and the trombone. One of his major hobbies was the amateur radio club which included a lot of community service (KC8BGK).

Dean is survived by his wife, Karen (Piering) Bass, whom he married on January 26, 1991; his daughters, Laura Bass and Emily Bass; brother, Leonard (Holly) Bass; sister, Judy (Jim) Manning; sister-in-law, Ann Bass and many nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jim Bass and sister, Joan Reddout.

In honoring Dean’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church of Frankenlust with inurnment to follow at the St. Paul Cemetery. Officiating will be Pastor David Schultz. The family will be present to receive visitors at the Gephart Funeral Home on Friday, February 27, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Saturday at the Church from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Memorial contributions may be made in Dean’s name to the St. Paul Ministry Center.

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02/22/2026

Cynthia Ann Clark

Cynthia Ann Clark, age 83 was called home to the Lord in the early morning hours of February 21, 2026 in the comforting presence of her eldest granddaughter. Born on June 15, 1942 in Cleveland, Ohio to the late Albert and Viola Hudy.

On December 26, 1964, Cynthia married the love of her life, Lewis Clark, at St. Anthony of Padua Parish in Parma, Ohio. They later moved to Bay City, Michigan where they built a beautiful life and raised their family.

Cynthia had a passion for life’s simple pleasures. She found great joy in gardening, crafting and baking. She was well known for her holiday decorating and her cooking made every holiday feel like a momentous occasion. She loved going shopping and going out to lunch with the girls every chance she could. For many years she took pride in volunteering for the Southwest Little League, and later in life enjoyed her time working at the Meijer in Bay City.

Cynthia is survived by her sons, Shawn Clark and Joel Clark; her daughters-in-law, Patty Gomez and Jessica Legalo; her beloved grandchildren, Courtney Clark, Ian Rushford, Hali (Rushford) Shifter, Grace Clark and Aiden Clark; and her great grandchildren, WyLee, Clementine and Sophia. She is also survived by her siblings, Doris (Max) Hyuck, Linda Pawlowski, Nancy Blankschaen, Albert (Karen) Hudy and Paul (Lori) Hudy, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Cynthia was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Viola Hudy; husband, Lewis E. Clark; son, Lewis G. Clark and her brother-in-law, Allen Pawlowski.

The family of Cynthia would like to give a special thank you to the staff and volunteers at the Toni and Trish House in Auburn, MI.

Funeral service for Cynthia will take place at Gephart Funeral Home on Monday, March 2, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. with interment to follow at St. Patrick’s Cemetery. Officiating will be Jane Grzegorczyk. The family will be present to receive visitors on Monday at the funeral home from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wishes of the Family.

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02/21/2026

Edward Martin Zielinski

Edward passed away peacefully on Friday, February 20, 2026 at McLaren Bay Region at the age of 78. He was born on October 1, 1947 in Bay City to the late Robert and Dorothy (Brancheau) Zielinski. He was a sports fanatic and an avid bowler, he even had several 300 games that he was very proud of. He loved fishing, hunting, and planning the annual Zielinski deer camp in the UP. He retired as a manager from Jacks Fruit & Meat Market after 30 years, they all knew him as “EZ” the money man. His grandchildren were the center of his world. He loved each and every one of them so much and enjoyed spending every minute he could with them.

Edward is survived by his daughter, Jennifer (H. Michael) Dwan; son, Edward (Jill) Zielinski; eight grandchildren, Michael, Mitchell, Olivia, Jack and Thomas Dwan and Will, Leo and Owen Zielinski; siblings, Timothy (Sandy) Zielinski, Thomas Zielinski, William Zielinski, Karen Bess and Robert (Julie) Zielinski and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving companion, Tula LaLonde.

In honoring Edwards wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at the Gephart Funeral Home. The family will be present to receive visitors on Thursday at the funeral home from 3:00 p.m. until the time of the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wishes of the Family.

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02/21/2026

Austin D. LaClair

Austin D. LaClair, 19, of Bay City, Michigan, passed away on February 18, 2026, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, following a courageous 2 year and 8-month battle with leukemia.

Born in Bay City on September 5, 2006, Austin was the beloved son of Vanessa LaClair and Joshua Gonzales. From the very beginning, Austin was known for his humor, honesty, and incredibly kind heart. He had a way of making people laugh when they needed it most, and he loved deeply — his family, his friends, and the simple joys that made life meaningful to him.

Austin adored his dog, Pancake, and gaming on the computer he proudly built himself, and anything the color purple. He loved milkshakes, Fallout, Renaissance Festival adventures (where he was especially proud of buying his first sword), and dreamed of attending Fallout Fan Fest in Goodsprings, Nevada, and visiting the Santa Monica Pier one day.

He was happiest surrounded by the people who loved him. His best friend, Kole, held a special place in his heart. Austin preferred shorts over pants (no matter the weather), loved handing out candy on Halloween, riding his bike, camping, wildlife, and spending time in nature. He appreciated life in its simplest form — good company, fresh air, and shared laughter.

Austin is survived by his loving mother, Vanessa LaClair; his father, Joshua Gonzales; his sisters Kaylee LaClair, Sophia, Penelope and brothers Darian LaClair and Liam. Great grandparents Diana LaClair, Edward LaClair, and Norberta Frank; grandparents, Peggy LaClair, Rick LaClair and Daniel Gonzales; aunts, Meghan LaClair, Chelsea, Kendra; and uncles, Shane LaClair and Justin Gonzales his extended family; his many friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts. He was preceded in death by his grandmother Mary Jo Frank, great grandmother Sally Klimaszewski.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at Gephart Funeral Home. Family and friends are invited to gather and celebrate Austin’s life and the joy he brought to those around him on Thursday, February 26, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to wishes of the family.

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02/20/2026

Hulda Esther Weiss

Mrs. Weiss passed peacefully into the caring arms of the Lord on Thursday, February 19 at the age of 101. She was born December 21, 1924, in Monitor Township to the late William and Mary (Pfundt) Quintel. Hulda married Emil O. Weiss on August 26, 1950.

Mrs. Weiss is survived by one son, Alan (Brenda) Weiss of Saginaw; one daughter, Nancy Weiss of Bay City; two grandsons, Benjamin (Robyn) Weiss of Frankenmuth and Paul (Nicole) Weiss of Longmont, CO; two great grandsons, Eli Weiss and Carter Weiss both of Frankenmuth; and two great granddaughters, Celia Weiss and Stella Weiss, both of Longmont, CO and the Kucher family.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Weiss was predeceased by her husband Emil; four brothers, Norman, Edgar, Adolph and John; six sisters, Lydia, Alma, Clara, Ida, Erna, and Meta.

Mrs. Weiss was a member of Faith Lutheran Church. She enjoyed gardening, doing crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, canning produce, baking, playing cards, and caring for her family and grandchildren.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Bayfield Assisted Living for their compassion and loving care that they gave to Mrs. Weiss. Hulda’s feisty personality brought much joy to the staff and residents.

Funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at Faith Lutheran Church. Visitation will take place at the church on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until time of service. Officiating will be Rev. James Chinery with private interment in Floral Gardens Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Faith Lutheran Church.

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02/20/2026

Paul E. Walton

Paul passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at Toni and Trish House in Auburn, Michigan at the age of 67. He was born on December 5, 1958 in Saginaw to the late Robert and Beatrice (Pason) Walton. He lived a simple life and loved hunting and playing poker.

Paul is survived by his sisters, Jean (Bob) Hughes and JoAnn Essex and many nieces, nephews, as well as great nieces and great nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Patti Ann Bluemlein; and brothers, Bob (Betty) Walton Jr. and Dave Walton.

In honoring the wishes of Paul, cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at Gephart Funeral Home. Friends may visit with the family on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 from 2:00 p.m. until the time of services at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the wishes of the family.

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02/20/2026

Today, we want to spotlight some special unsung heroes: caregivers. Their kindness, patience, and selflessness make a meaningful difference every day. 💙

If you're a caregiver, your dedication does not go unnoticed, and the care you give leaves a lasting impact on the lives you touch.

Take a moment to recognize and thank a caregiver who inspires you this National Caregivers Day. 🌼