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Jowett Family Funeral Home and Cremation, 7223 South Street, Benzonia, MI (2025)

09/06/2025

Diane Maria Goodson, of Beulah, MI, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2025. She was born in Niles, MI, the beloved daughter of Jack and Virginia (Hance) Rabe.
Her early childhood was spent in Dowagiac and Owosso, before the family moved to Dearborn when her father accepted a position as a teacher and coach for the Dearborn Schools. Diane began third grade at Henry Ford Elementary in East Dearborn, where her days were enriched by home economics, science, and swimming classes—memorable for being taught by Miss Weissmuller, sister of Tarzan actor Johnny Weissmuller.
Though times were modest, Christmas always brought joy: a cherished orange and, from Henry Ford himself, a real camera each year. When the family later settled in West Dearborn, across from Dearborn High, Diane devoted herself to ten years of home economics courses. Living just two blocks from the Ford Estate, she had the unforgettable experience of Henry Ford pausing his chauffeur-driven car to speak with her as she rode her bicycle.
Diane’s curiosity and warmth carried into her work at Greenfield Village, where as a high school student she guided tours and conducted research. Ever spirited, she once shouted through the front door, “We aren’t open yet!”—only to realize it was Henry Ford himself knocking.
On February 10, 1949, Diane married the love of her life, Donald E. Goodson. Together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and enduring devotion, raising a family that would remain her greatest joy and pride.
An accomplished athlete, Diane excelled in tennis, winning the City of Dearborn Championship in high school, and later the Lansing Championship for women over 55.
Her love of learning led her to study Elementary Education at Eastern Michigan University, the University of Michigan, and Michigan State University, where she earned her degree as a Reading Specialist. She shared her passion for teaching with students at Mill Lake Camp, Glen Lake Schools, and Grand Ledge Schools, shaping countless young lives with patience and kindness.
In addition to her career, Diane gave generously of her time to her community. She volunteered for many years at the Beulah Public Library and at Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital, offering comfort and kindness to others. She also treasured her weekly bridge games, faithfully gathering with the same group of dear friends for many years of laughter and camaraderie.
Diane is survived by her children, Virginia R. Wohlscheid (Jerry) and Jack T. Goodson (Jacke); her grandchildren, Gerald Law (Malia), Joseph Wohlscheid (Ashley), Michael Wohlscheid, Jack Wohlscheid (Kim), Max Anderson, and Fran Roper (Neil); and her great-grandchildren, Madison, Charley, Maya, and Jameson Wohlscheid, Paige Pierce (Charlie), and Vincent Roper. She is also survived by her two sisters Jacque Crabtree and Margaret Rabe.
She was preceded in death by her husband Don and daughter Mary Elizabeth Goodson. She was also preceded in death by her two sisters Ruth Bowen and Ann Westerhof.
She will be remembered for her warmth, humor, love of family, and her remarkable stories of a life well-lived.
There will be no formal service. The family is deeply grateful for the kind words, prayers and well wishes extended during this time. Arrangements with Jowett Family Funeral Home, Benzonia.

09/03/2025

Lifelong Benzie County resident, William L. "Bill" Armstrong passed on September 1, 2025. Bill was born on February 8, 1938, the third child of Walter and Noma (Gray) Armstrong.

After graduating from Honor High School, he married his high school sweetheart, Anita Trumbell and they were married for 67 years. Together they raised three sons, William Jr., Robert and Ronald.

While still in high school, Bill was recruited to become a volunteer member of the Homestead Township Fire Department. He served on the Fire Department and also as a Homestead Township Trustee for 32 years.

Bill was an avid deer hunter and each November would find him on a hunt with his sons and also his brother, Gordon. He enjoyed his vegetable garden and working in his yard. He and Anita loved traveling and together they visited most of the western states and Germany.

Bill retired from Consumers Energy after working there as a lineman for 32 years.

He is survived by his wife, Anita, and sons William Jr., Robert (Janine) and Ronald (Susan). Bill is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Gordon and June Armstrong, and grandchildren, Jessica (John) Armstrong Baglien, Bryan (Shannon) Armstrong, Elizabeth Corley, Shannon Armstrong, Elizabeth LaCross, Shawn Armstrong and James Smith. In addition, Bill is survived by 10 great-grandchildren. Also surviving are his brother-in-law, Wayne (Sharon) Trumbell, plus many nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Sarah Roush, his in-laws, Wayne and Leora Trumbell, and sisters-in-law, Bethany Chalmers and Delores Price.

A memorial service will be held Saturday September 27th at Trinity Lutheran Church in Frankfort, at 11:00 am. The family will receive friends one hour before the service and there will also be a luncheon afterwards. Cremation has taken place, with interment at Homestead Township Cemetery. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia.

09/03/2025

It is with great sadness that we share Thomas Darrow Morton passed away on August 30, 2025, at the age of 77, after a life devoted to ensuring the safety and well-being of children. A tireless advocate and compassionate leader, Tom's legacy is measured not in years but in the countless young lives made better through his work in child welfare.

Born on September 29, 1947, to H. Dean and Billie (Seufert) Morton, Tom learned the principles of hard work and dedication from his parents, as well as a love for the outdoors. The joys and challenges of fishing and hunting were something he found great pleasure in throughout his whole life. His parents also instilled in him a drive for education and knowledge. This led Tom from his home in Independence, Missouri, to the University of Michigan to pursue a degree in engineering. After only a short time at U of M, Tom realized his heart was in social science, and this led him to embark on a remarkable career in child welfare.

Tom graduated from the University of Michigan with a BA in psychology and a Master of Social Work. His early career was in youth services in Washtenaw County, Michigan, which led to work with the University of Michigan's Child Welfare Learning Laboratory. Over the next several years, Tom worked in the field of social work education with the University of Tennessee, the University of Georgia, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

In 1984, Tom relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, and founded the Child Welfare Institute (CWI), a non-profit educational organization that provided technical assistance, training models and system improvements to State and International child-welfare agencies. The work of CWI was instrumental in constructing and redesigning child welfare programs that had a positive impact on countless families. This work took Tom across the country and around the world in his capacity with CWI and as a Co-Director with the National Resource Center on Child Maltreatment. Tom also served as a consultant to multiple U.S. States and the Israeli Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs on the development of foster family care in Israel. For Tom's dedication and tireless efforts, the National Staff Development and Training Association and American Public Human Services Association, bestowed him with their Lifetime Achievement Award.

In 2006, Tom became the director of the Clark County (Nevada) Department of Family Services, which serves a community of two million residents. In his five years leading the agency, he implemented a full re-engineering of all major practices in the department, which drastically improved the effectiveness of all levels of family service.

In his retirement, Tom relocated to Frankfort, Michigan, to be near family and pursue his love for the outdoors. During this time, he also continued to work in child welfare as a consultant to Casey Family Programs and as a child protection practice specialist for the Federal Commission to Eliminate Child Abuse and Neglect Fatalities.

Tom was a devoted father, grandfather, and friend. His passion for knowledge was broad-reaching and partnered well with his love of travel. He was an accomplished cook, a wine connoisseur, and an unending source of historical data. Everything he saw, tasted, or experienced was mentally filed away to be shared at a moment’s notice. He will be remembered fondly by many long-time friends, neighbors, and extended family.

Tom is survived by his daughter Arah (Andrew) Johnson; his grandchildren, Christian Johnson, Gabriel Johnson, and Seth Johnson, all of Frankfort, Mich. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dean & Billie Morton, and his beloved dog, Jackie. There will not be a formal public service. Memorials may be made to a charity of your choosing that best reflects memories of Tom. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia.

09/03/2025

Lewis Robert Larson (Bob), age 90, of Frankfort, Michigan, passed away peacefully on August 29th, 2025 surrounded by family.
Son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend; Bob was born November 5th, 1934 in Frankfort, MI. He was the second son of Stollie and Ida (Johnson) Larson. Bob spent his childhood with family members and lifelong friends, his brother Harold and his cousin John Johnson. He attended Frankfort High School, graduating in the class of 1954. At the age of 20, Bob married the love of his life, Catherine Ruth (Snyder) Larson, on June 19th, 1955 in Frankfort, MI. He and Catherine had three children: Cathy (Fred) Burcroff of Beulah, Robert (Diane) Larson of Pentwater, and their adopted daughter, Tracy Larson of South Bend, IN.

Bob was dedicated to his career and community. He took pride in the 27 years devoted to the Ann Arbor Railroad as a carman. Later in life, he continued to serve his community through his work as a custodian for the Benzie County Courthouse and through performing various supportive roles within the Trinity Lutheran Church in Frankfort, where he was a lifetime member.

His kindness, music, and sense of humor touched everyone who knew him. Bob had a warm personality and was always cracking jokes and making friends wherever he went. His musical talent and creativity would capture his love for life and has left a positive impact on those around him. Bob was a self-taught musician who could make music with just about any instrument: guitar, fiddle, banjo, saxophone, accordion, harmonica, and many more. It was often said that if he was handed an instrument, Bob would find a way to play it. He enjoyed sharing his gift of music with others. Bob enjoyed playing with the “Betsie Bay Minstrels,” who played at many different venues and festivals. In the later years, he often played at the Gathering Place Senior Center, and for various other senior living communities.

Bob had a big heart for animals and was known to carry a pocketful of dog treats with him at all times in preparation for meeting new buddies. Bob and Catherine loved a variety of pets over the years. Their grandchildren had known them to always have a German Shepherd or two by their sides. Being a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather was the pride of Bob’s life. He has made a special impact on the lives of his grandchildren.

Remaining to cherish Bob’s memory are his children: Cathy (Fred) Burcroff, Robert (Diane) Larson, and Tracy Larson. He leaves behind several beloved granddaughters: Shannon Larson (Craig Bowen), Carrie (Andrew) Bucholtz, Jennifer (Jared) Bowen, Kristin Burcroff, and Caitlin (Joseph) Perry. Bob is lovingly remembered by his great-grandchildren: Lane Rood, Ava Bucholtz, Kaleb Bucholtz, Bennett Bucholtz, and Kieran Perry. He is loved and missed by his cousin John Johnson, and his niece Linda (Lee) Reed.

Preceding him in death were Bob’s parents: Stollie and Ida (Johnson) Larson, his brother Harold Larson, his loving wife Catherine (Snyder) Larson, and his grandson Robert Christopher Larson.

Family and friends are invited to join in a Celebration of Life to be held on Saturday October 25th, 2025, beginning at 11:00 AM. The Celebration of Life will take place at the Trinity Lutheran Church, 955 James St., Frankfort, MI. Pastor Rick Stieve will officiate. Family will receive friends one hour prior to the service for visitation. Bob will be interred beside his wife, Catherine, at the Crystal Lake Township East Cemetery. Flowers may be sent to the Trinity Lutheran Church. Those who wish, may make memorial contributions to Benzie Senior Resources, 10542 Main Street, Honor, MI 49640. Jowett Family Funeral Homes and Cremation Service will be handling the arrangements.

08/28/2025

Mollie Margaret (Luxford) Smith
Frankfort, Michigan
August 10, 1941 – August 20, 2025

Mollie Margaret Smith, a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at Munson Hospital in Traverse City, surrounded by her loving son Ryan and his wife Nancy.

Born on August 10, 1941, in Frankfort, Michigan, to Louis Luxford and Elouise E. Benson, Mollie grew up in nearby Elberta. On June 12, 1960, she married the love of her life, Gilroy “Lee” Smith, also of Frankfort. At the time, Lee was serving in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Noah, stationed in Philadelphia. After his honorable discharge later that year, the couple returned to Frankfort, where Lee helped run the family grocery business and together they built a home and life rooted in family and community.

Mollie and Lee raised three children—Lee Ann, Ryan, and Gene—while filling their home with love, laughter, and shared traditions. She treasured memories of her childhood friends in Elberta and often spoke fondly of those carefree days. An avid athlete in her youth, Mollie played basketball for Benzie Central and delighted in cheering on her brothers at their own games.

Throughout her life, Mollie embraced many interests and adventures: homemaking, hunting and camping with her family, traveling, shopping, and basking in the sun at Elberta Beach. Above all, she cherished her role as a grandmother. Visits from her grandsons Sam and Jack brought her immense joy, and even in her final days, their presence brightened her spirit.

Mollie will be remembered for her unwavering kindness, her deep devotion to family, and her boundless love for her grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Lee, her brothers Norman (Linda) Luxford and Eugene (Emily) Luxford, and her grandson Justin L. Smith (son of Gene).

She is survived by her children: Lee Ann Sanborn of Traverse City, Ryan G. Smith (Nancy) of Frankfort, and Eugene (Gene) L. Smith of Traverse City; her brother Charles (Imogene) Luxford of Frankfort; and her sister Connie Toms of Frankfort. She is also survived by her cherished grandsons Samuel G. Smith of Frankfort and Jack R. Smith of Grand Rapids, as well as her former daughter-in-law Lisa Prince, mother of her grandsons.

The Luxford and Smith families have long been a part of the Frankfort and Benzie County communities, and Mollie leaves behind a legacy of friendship, family, and love that will be felt for generations.

No service is planned at this time. Arrangements with Jowett Family Funeral Home.

08/28/2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of James "Jim" 'Mckeon. A man of quiet strength and immense generosity. Jim left this world a better place for having been in it.

Jim was a true outdoorsman, finding his greatest peace and joy in nature. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, most at home on a quiet lake at dawn or in the stillness of the woods. He lived a hard life, facing its many challenges with resilience and grit, but his own struggles never diminished his willingness to help others. He was the first to offer a hand to a neighbor in need or lend an ear to a friend in trouble.

A significant part of Jim's life was his unwavering commitment to the recovery community. He believed deeply in the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous and the 12-step program, which he credited with changing his life. Through his own journey, he became a beacon of hope, a mentor, and a steadfast friend to countless individuals, sharing his experience and strength without hesitation.

Jim cherished his family. He is survived by his siblings, Sharon, Billy, and Dan McKeon. He was a beloved uncle to his many nieces and nephews, whom he loved dearly. He also leaves behind a large community of friends who became his adopted family. He is now reunited with his brothers, John and Frank, who preceded him in death.

Jim's legacy is one of quiet service, resilience, and the profound impact one person can have on their community. He will be profoundly missed.

A Mass of a Christian burial will take place at 11:00 am, September 22nd at St. Ann Catholic Church with a visitation beginning one hour prior. There will be a luncheon immediately following. Burial at Crystal Lake Twp North.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the James Mckeon Memorial Fund to honor his memory and continue his spirit of helping others. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia.

08/26/2025

Lorraine ‘Lori” Kathryn (Farrell) Burke
May 10, 1962 -August 13,2025

Lori ascended to the arms of our Lord & Savior after a courageous battle with cancer.
She is predeceased by her beloved son Sean; Father Thomas Farrell Sr.; Father & Mother In-Law Stanley & Jean (Dorothy) Burke Sr.

She is survived by her beloved husband Stanley; daughter Natalie Burke; Mother Elizabeth Farrell; Sisters Deborah (Andrew) Nohle and Christine (Gregory) Huber; Brother Thomas Farrell Jr.; Niece Olivia Huber & Nephews Lucas & Matthew Huber;
Brother-in-law Brendon Burke; Niece Savannah Burke; & Sister-in-law Leslie Burke.

Lori lived in Rochester, NY and was a graduate of Bishop Kearney High School (1980). She continued her education at Northern Michigan University on a full scholarship for Gymnastics. She graduated in 1985 and married her college sweetheart, Stanley Burke on 6/15/85. They made their home in Traverse City, Michigan, where they owned the U & l Lounge. Later, they resided in Beulah, Michigan.

Lori was an avid gymnast since the age of 8 years old. Rather than WALK, Lori preferred to 'tumble' her way through her early life. She took private instruction and many awards throughout her high school years. Her legendary 'Floor Routine" music was The Pink Panther theme song which was always a crowd pleaser. She continued her passion of gymnastics at NMU, where she qualified for the National Meet, Division Il Championship. She was a four time All American and won the 1984 National Championship. She loved coaching and encouraging younger gymnasts in her free time. Lori was inducted into the HALL OF FAME @ NMU in 1997.

Lori enjoyed many hobbies: Gardening, Fishing (MANY Salmon tournaments). Sewing, Bird & Nature watching, Four-wheeling, and collecting rocks (especially Drummond Island Puddin' rocks!), Reading, and baking pies during the holidays to give to friends and neighbors, to name a few. She loved the Christmas holidays, when her yard became a lighted showplace causing folks to stop on the road. Her favorite thing to do was to spend time with her family and her beloved Bernese Mountain Dogs.
Lori was an extremely generous, loving person and devoted to her family, friends and neighbors. Her laughter was infectious, and she always had a friendly wave to every passer-by. Her visiting family was instructed to wave at passers-by as well. She was ready to help whenever and wherever needed. Lori had a kind soul and a heart of gold.

She was so loved by her family and friends. Our hearts are broken yet comforted knowing that she is with our Lord. She was a blessing to all who knew her, and she will be dearly missed. Thank you, Jesus, for the gift you gave to us in Lori.

Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia.

08/25/2025

Ilse L. Schafer
July 11, 1931 – August 9, 2025
Ilse L. Schafer, of Arcadia, Michigan, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2025, at the age of 94. Born on July 11, 1931, in Germany, Ilse carried with her a deep love for family, resilience, and the traditions of her homeland throughout her long and full life.
She was united in marriage to, Lyle Schafer, who preceded her in death.
Ilse is survived by her loving children, Patty Opdyke (Bryan), Carsten Kordts, and Gudrun, along with two cherished “bonus daughters,” Lynn and Kathi, who held a special place in her heart. She was a proud grandmother to Benjamin (Jana), Caleb, Andrea (Allen), Amber, Veronica (Brennan), and DuWane (Jessica), and her joy multiplied with her great-grandchildren Karlee, Grayson, Hudson, Beckett, Kristine, Jameson, Lincoln, and two little blessings soon to arrive. She also leaves behind many step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren, each of whom she welcomed with open arms and unconditional love.
Ilse was preceded in death by her beloved husband Lyle, her parents, and two brothers.
Her legacy is one of kindness, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family. She will be remembered for her generosity of spirit, her ability to make everyone feel at home, and the deep love she shared with all who knew her.
A memorial service to celebrate Ilse’s life will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 27, at Jowett Family Funeral Home in Benzonia. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.

08/11/2025

Peter Eric “Pete” Bensinger, 61, passed away unexpectedly on August 9, 2025, in a tragic accident on the lake—a place that brought him endless joy.
Born on September 22, 1963, in Toronto, Canada, Pete was the beloved son of Paul and Paule Bensinger, both of whom preceded him in death.
He is survived by his devoted life partner, Candace “Candy” Grigsby; his sister, Renee Bensinger; his daughters, Taylor (Gideon) Bensinger and Megan Roxas; and his son, Lucas Bensinger—who shared his birthday. Pete’s joy was multiplied by his cherished grandchildren—Taytum, Peyton, Chaney, Braelyn, and Zoey—who adored their grandpa as well as by his beloved dogs, who will deeply miss their best friend. He also leaves behind nieces, nephews, extended family, and countless friends whose lives were forever enriched by knowing him.
A proud United States Navy veteran, Pete honorably served aboard the USS Mount Baker. His life was anchored by a deep love of the outdoor, a passion sparked in childhood and carried throughout his life. An avid hunter, fisherman, and adventurer, Pete thrived in nature, whether foraging, exploring the woods, or sharing the thrill of the outdoors with his children and grandchildren.
Those who knew Pete will remember his booming voice, colorful storytelling, and larger-than-life personality. His quick wit, playful spirit, and gift for making others laugh lit up every room and every gathering.
A visitation will be held on Friday, August 15, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. at Fresh Winds Christian Community Church, 18201 Honor Hwy, Interlochen, MI. A celebration of Pete’s life will follow at the home he shared with Candy (6700 Maple City Hwy, Lake Ann). Arrangements are entrusted to Jowett Family Funeral Home.
Pete’s memory will live on in the laughter he inspired, the love he gave, and the countless stories that will be told and retold by all who were fortunate enough to call him family or friend.

08/11/2025

Jack Harold Swander, 85, of Frankfort, Michigan, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2025.
Jack was born on June 21, 1940, in Hudson, Michigan, to Harold Russell and Erna Cecelia (Hathaway) Swander. He lived a full and hardworking life grounded in faith, family, and the simple joys he cherished most. Jack was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather, cherished uncle, and loyal friend to many.

Over the years, Jack worked for Pet Milk, the Market Basket, Blarney Castle, and Total Oil, where he was known for his strong work ethic and dependable nature - whether in the factory or out on the road. Outside of work, he found joy in farming his 80-acre farm (and other local fields), fishing, mowing the lawn, and especially driving to anywhere and everywhere to read the
paper in different locales. He also loved eating at Bob Evans and Long John Silver’s (those hushpuppies!). He could also often be found spoiling the local dogs and his own beloved pup, Faith, with treats and biscuits. But, above all, he was happiest and most content when spending time with the people he loved.

Jack and his family moved to Benzie County in the mid-1950s. He married Ruth LaGuire on May 6, 1962, at the Benzonia Congregational Church, and they celebrated 63 years of marriage earlier this year. Their deep connection and unwavering dedication to one another was a true testament to the love they shared.

In addition to his wife, he is also survived by sons Scott (Riki) Swander and AJ (Jackie) Swander, daughter-in-law Molly Swander; grandchildren April (Kaleb), Emily (Kory), JJ (Sarah), Jacob (Raimi), Alanna, and Christian; and great-grandchildren Finn, Toby, Thea, and Thora. He is also survived by his sister, Jan (David) Tolley; sister-in-law Lorraine LaGuire; nephew Robert (Candice); and nieces Kathy, Kristi (Timothy) Mattke, and Keli (Joshua) Reynolds; grandnieces Samantha, Maddy, Hadley, Locklyn, Willow, and Lily Jean; and one grandnephew Thatcher, along with many dear friends, extended family, and his beloved church family.

Jack’s life was a testament to his Christian faith, which guided him through both quiet and meaningful moments. His kindness, sense of humor, quick wit, and deep love for his family will be remembered always.

A memorial service and luncheon will be held on August 15 at 11 a.m. at the Benzie Area Church of Christ, where friends and loved ones are invited to celebrate Jack’s life and legacy. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia.

08/08/2025

Alcy Zak passed away July 18, 2025, at the age of 89. She was born and raised in Crossville, Tennessee, and moved to Michigan at the age of fourteen. Years later, she met her husband, Jesse Leatherman.
Together, Alcy and Jesse had eight children, raising seven of them on their farm while Jesse worked on the boats. Alcy managed the household with resourcefulness, often making do with just a twenty-pound sack of flour, a sack of beans, and whatever the farm provided.
Alcy was renowned for her hearty, home-cooked farm meals, with her homemade bread and pies becoming local favorites. She baked not just for her family, but also for neighbors and local children, often selling her creations at the flea market.
For Alcy, baking was an expression of kindness and generosity. Her kitchen was a welcoming place, where friends and children from the neighborhood gathered, always greeted with something warm from the oven. Her caring spirit reached beyond her household; she offered prayers and support to all she encountered. Deeply devoted to her grandchildren, Alcy cherished playing rummy around the kitchen table and delighted in including friends and community members in her ever-growing circle, embracing many as part of her extended family.
Alcy is survived by children; Libby Leatherman, Patricia Panzegrau, Beverly Leatherman, Diana Deeren, Jesse Jr. Leatherman, and Billy Leatherman, many grandchildren, and great grandchildren
She was preceded by sons; Micheal Leatherman and Timothy Leatherman.

God saw you getting tired
And a cure was not to be
So he put his arms around you
And whispered "come to me"
With tearful eyes we watched you as you slowly slipped away and though we loved you dearly
We couldn't make you stay.
Your golden heart stopped beating.
Your tired hands put to rest God broke our hearts to prove to us he only takes the best.

Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home, any memorial contributions may be made to the Funeral Home.

08/07/2025

Stanley E. Woell, born February 14, 1938, passed into eternal glory meeting his Savior, Jesus Christ, face to face on August 4, 2025, in Manistee, Michigan. He lived a life committed to his faith and family.

He is survived by his loving wife, Karla; three sons; three daughters-in-law, fourteen grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

He served his country in the Army, held a Bachelor's degree from Valparaiso University (1960) and a Master's degree from the University of Illinois (1961). He taught at both Michigan Technological University and Michigan State University. He moved from higher education into full-time Christian ministry at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Holt MI for the balance of his professional career.

He loved to creatively solve problems that required ingenuity and loved to work with his hands. He was also an avid tennis player as well as a fan of the game.

In his retirement, he faithfully served in many capacities including: Laborers for Christ, renovating and improving Camp Arcadia, volunteering as a tax preparer with AARP, and volunteering much of his time at the Arcadia Community Center to complete the renovations needed to open the facility. Stan worked hard, but loved to play hard as well.

You could almost always find him eating ice cream and popcorn and enjoying time with family. His dry wit, sense of humor and gentle spirit will be remembered as well as his faithful walk with his Savior.

A memorial will be held August 24th at 3:00 pm at Trinity Lutheran Church in Arcadia. In lieu of flowers or other gifts please make gifts to Trinity Lutheran Church, Arcadia or Camp Arcadia. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home.

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