http://www.jowettfamilyfuneralhome.com/

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

12/11/2025

Toni Markey service has been postponed at this time. Will announce when rescheduled.

12/10/2025

Thomas Allen Peck passed away December 5, 2025, at the age of 52. Full Obituary to follow. A service will be held Saturday December 27th at the Eden Bible Church at 2:00 pm with a visitation one hour prior. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia, Mi. www.jowettfamilyfuneralhome.com

12/10/2025

David Lee Whitney Sr, husband, brother, father, grandfather "Grandpa Golf Cart", passed away on December 5, 2025, at the age of 61. David was commonly found hunting, fishing, golfing, bowling, and when not found outdoors he would be spending time with family. By his family he was well known for being a prankster, mediator and voice of reason.

He was preceded in death by his parents, father-in-law, and grandchild, Landon.

He will be immensely missed by his wife of 29 years, Karen; children, Tarran, Chad (Maggie), Chrystal, Shannon (Jeff), Nichole (Matt), David (Kelsey), Dylan (Sam); grandchildren, Jacob, Jeremiah, Naveah, Xavier, Jehuel, Trinity, Hunter, Harlie, Hailey, Hayden, Finley, Sophia, Maverick.

Funeral services for David will be held on Monday, December 15, at 11:00 A.M. at VanderLaan Funeral Home. Visitation for David will be held on Sunday, December 14, from 2 to 5 P.M. at VanderLaan Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Michigan Outdoor Wishmakers, 11059 Stanton St, West Olive, MI 49460

Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia, Mi and VanderLaan Funeral Home of Grand Rapids.

12/10/2025

Jeffrey Alan “Cowboy” Bowers, age 66, of Benzonia, Michigan, passed away on November 16, 2025. He was born on November 11, 1959, in Traverse City, Michigan, the beloved son of Earl Darvin Bowers Jr. and Annetta Jean (Volpe) Bowers.

Jeff was a proud Veteran, having served in the United States Army. Following his service, he became a talented finish carpenter—a trade he truly enjoyed until his retirement.

He is survived by his mother, Annetta Jean Bowers; siblings James (Karen) Bowers, Mark (Sousen) Bowers, and Tammy Bowers (Steve); and his children Joshua (Kristen) Bowers, Derek (Suzi) Clabeaux, Jessie (Daniel) Schuelke, and Meranda (Lowell) Routley. Jeff was blessed with many grandchildren, whom he adored: Aaliyah Frei, Cade Bowers, Kinsley Bowers, Laila Klemm, Kayleanah Klemm, Re*****on Routley, Jaidyn Schuelke, Kaybria Schuelke, Ryan Clabeaux, and Gunner Clabeaux. He also leaves behind nephews Cody Bowers, Zach Bowers, Rob Lyons, nieces Haley Bowers and Morgan Bowers, his aunts Ida Bowers and Linda (Mae) Frestick, and many cherished cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father Earl Bowers Jr., grandparents Earl Bowers Sr., Grace Bowers, Elizabeth Volpe, and James Volpe, along with his nephew Chris Lyons.

Known to many simply as “Cowboy,” Jeff felt most at home outdoors. He loved hunting, fishing, horseback riding, and truly anything that allowed him to be outside. For years, he could often be found at the Rocking R Ranch in Bear Lake—leading trail rides, tending to chores, cooking hearty meals over a fire, and sharing stories with friends. Jeff had a gift for cooking and was known for making generous meals, but above all, he treasured time spent with his family.

A funeral service will be held on December 20, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., with visitation beginning at noon, at Jowett Family Funeral Home in Benzonia, Michigan. www.jowettfamilyfuneralhome.com

12/05/2025

Robert Louis "Bob" "BJ" Johnson, 89, passed away peacefully at home after a short battle with lung cancer surrounded by his loving wife of 69 years and daughters on December 2, 2025.

Bob was born on November 14, 1936, in Muskegon, Michigan to Helen (Thompson) and Raymond Johnson. He grew up with his sister, Ruth (Chaffee) and brother Ted Johnson.

He married the love of his life, Emogene, on April 14, 1956, after meeting her in high school. He was drafted into the Army in May 1956. He returned in 1958. He then started various jobs in Muskegon including a butcher at Maggert’s Market, purchasing agent for Shurfine Warehouse, a salesman for Seagram's, a salesman for Frito-Lay and ultimately becoming a co-owner of Economy Market. In 1985 they moved up north to their cozy cottage. He then became owner of BJ's party store in Beulah.

Bob had rhythm. His lifetime passion was playing the drums. He started in high school and continued up until two months before his death. In the early years, he was a member of the Syncapators. After that, he played with a group that included buddies, Buzz Spier and Sonny Neading, they were called the Nite Aires. Recently he played his drum box on Wednesday nights at his residential park in Florida. He was also known for entertaining his Platte Lake neighborhood with patriotic music blaring from his window on patriotic holidays.

He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings. He is survived by his wife, Emogene; daughters, Terri (Don) DePeel, Laurie (Jon) Reed, and Lisa Johnson; grandchildren Michael (Brandy) Reed, Kyle DePeel, Melissa Reed, Robert (Emily) Ruschke and Kelsey (Arron) Barthelme; and great-grandchildren, Autumn Reed, Aedan Harrison-Reed, David and Maren DePeel, Michael Reed, Alivia Foor and Callie Barthelme. He also had a special nephew, Raymond (Laura) Wood.

Bob will be remembered as a proud father, loyal friend and a fun loving guy. He had a sense of humor that touched all he knew.
His memory will continue to live in the hearts of those who loved him.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date. Burial will take place in Sunrise Memorial Gardens in Muskegon, MI. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial contribution to Tunnels to Towers. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia. www.jowettfamilyfuneralhome.com

12/04/2025

Gerald "Jerry" Servidio passed away on December 3, 2025, at Green Acres of Manistee, Michigan. Born on October 26, 1940, in Greenwich, Connecticut, Jerry was the son of the late Joseph Servidio and Theresa (Scarpelli) Servidio. He graduated from Greenwich High School in 1959.

During the early 1960s, Jerry served in the United States Army in Pirmasens, Germany. It was there that he met and married his beloved late wife, Martha Faye Servidio. Jerry dedicated over 35 years of his life working as a USPS letter carrier in Cos Cob. Jerry was honored with the Million Mile Plaque for his exceptional service, having never had any incidents during his career. After retiring from his letter carrier duties, Jerry continued to work for Stolt Nielsen in Cos Cob, Connecticut, for several years.

Jerry had a wide range of interests. He loved caring for the animals in his backyard, tending to his koi pond, and maintaining his flower beds. In his early years, his passion for modified racing led him to join up with the late Nicky Giardina and his wife Betty at the Danbury Race Arena. In his later years, he continued to support his close friends, including the late SK Modified race car driver Teddy Christopher and race car owner Doug DiPisa and their teams.

Later in life, Jerry joined his son and daughter-in-law, GR and Teresa in beautiful Northern Michigan. He deeply cherished the love and care they had given him over the past 17 years, following the passing of his wife, Faye.

Jerry is survived by his son GR (Teresa) Servidio of Northern Michigan, brother Tommy (Carol) Servidio of Stamford, CT; sisters in law Sue Benge of Indianapolis, IN & Sharon Benge of Pittsboro, IN; nieces Tara (Sean) Mulcahey of Stamford CT & Leslie Hunt of Pittsboro, IN; nephew Brack (Erin) Benge of Linden, MI; grandniece Reagan Benge Raubinger; grandnephews Ryan and Aidan Mulcahey, Sawyer Benge & Trae Hunt and many, many cousins.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude for the attentive care provided by the staff at Green Acres of Manistee, MI. “It is the place to be.” Also, a special thank you to Jowett Family Funeral Home for the caring preparation and transport of Jerry to Connecticut.

A wake will be held on Wednesday December 10, 2025, from 4 to 8 PM at the Castiglione Funeral Home 544 Old Post Road #3, Greenwich, CT 06830. Funeral services will be held on Thursday December 11, 2025, at the funeral home at 10:30 AM. Interment to follow in St. Mary Cemetery in Greenwich. Jerry will be laid to rest above his beloved wife Faye (the only time he came out on top!)

www.jowettfamilyfuneralhome.com

12/03/2025

Roy D. Lee Jr., of Arcadia, passed away on November 16, 2025, at the age of 74.

He was born on August 7, 1951, in Lansing, Michigan, the beloved son of Roy D. and Aceneth Lee.

On February 28, 1981, Roy married the love of his life, Katherine “Kathi” Wilson. Together they raised their family in Vestaburg, MI, while Roy worked and later retired from General Motors in Lansing. After retirement and once their children graduated high school, Roy and Kathi moved to her hometown of Arcadia. Roy soon began working at Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course, a place he cherished deeply, where he proudly served for 18 years until his passing.

Roy was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Aceneth Lee of Lansing; his sister, Debra Lee of Lansing; and his in-laws, Douglas and Evelyn Wilson of Arcadia.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Kathi Lee; his brother Ken “Butch” Hartman (Debbie Bommorito) of Lansing and daughters Brenna Lee (Nino Ruggirello) of St. Clair Shores, MI and Chelsea Lee and his beautiful grandchildren—Teresa, Cruz, and Jamie Jeanne of Chippewa Lake, Ohio—whom he adored. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins whom he loved dearly.

Roy cherished his time at home with his wife and his loyal best friend, Charlie the dog. He was immensely proud of his daughters—Senior Chief Chelsea Lee and BM2 Brenna Lee—both of whom serve in the United States Coast Guard. He loved visiting his children and grandchildren, watching the girls dancing and playing and tossing footballs to Cruz. Roy also loved to deer hunt with his hunting buddy Nino on his sister-in-law Patti Wilson property in Arcadia .

A true fan of Michigan’s pro sports teams, Roy especially loved cheering for the Detroit Lions, with the Tigers and Red Wings close behind.

Roy would be honored to have others celebrate his life by appreciating the small things—sharing a homemade meal with your spouse, laughing together while guessing all the wrong answers on Jeopardy, chatting with a neighbor, or enjoying a bowl of his famous homemade cheese popcorn.

Remembered for his happy, friendly nature and his infectious smile and laugh, Roy leaves behind a legacy of joy and kindness that will live in our hearts forever.

A memorial service for Roy will be held on Saturday, January 24th, at 1:00 pm at Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course with Pastor Rick Stieve officiating. A social gathering celebrating Roy will continue at the golf course until 4:00 pm. Arrangements with Jowett Family Funeral Home.

11/30/2025

It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of our beloved sister, Silvia Bolado, 73, on November 23rd, 2025. Born on December 19, 1951, in Brownsville TX., to Carlos and Amelia Bolado, Silvia lived a dynamic life, filled with God, love, family, friends, hopes, dreams, and miracles.

Silvia worked and retired from Mitchell Corp., volunteered at medical facilities and organized and raised thousands of dollars for St. Judes Children’s Research Hospital, BACN, and walk-a-thon Benzie Senior Resources, and many other charities and works
of the Lord.

Silvia was renowned for her ability to unite all people, and celebrated by all who knew her for her gifts to organize, inspire, and lead those around her with love and faith. Silvia was well known for her thoughtfulness, kindness, generosity, big heart, and zest
for life. She enjoyed being around and talking with people no matter where she was.

She loved Elvis, walking, laughing, spending money on those she loved, (which was just about everyone), cooking, eating, collecting rocks/bottles, music, dancing, concerts, going to the casino, car rides, trips to Mackinaw, the color purple.
But most of all, Silvia loved God, the Republic of the United States, her family, and her friends.

She was dearly loved by her family and small community. She will be greatly missed by many.

Silvia is survived by her siblings Jose Miguel “Joe” (Ofelia) Bolado, Maria Aida “Mary” (Larry) Mortenson, Juanita “Janie” Nichols, Rosa Imelda Bomer Bolado, Rosa Linda (Juan) Mendez, Baltazar “Alex” Bolado, Manuela Guadalupe “Mellie” (Greg) Long,
Jessie George (Karen) Bolado, many nieces and nephews, and very close, dear friends Kathy Didier and Myrtle Moore. She is proceeded in death by her parents Carlos Lerma and Amelia Bolado, brother-in-law Art Nichols, niece Candi Nichols, and nephew Justin Bomer.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, December 4, 2025 at 1:00 pm with a visitation beginning at11:00 am at Jowett Family Funeral Home in Benzonia MI.

11/30/2025

Ruth Carolyn Lyon, a woman who was known as “Mom” to everyone she encountered, passed away peacefully on November 17th in Richmond, California. Ruth was filled with love, laughter, and strength which she generously shared with everyone she knew. A beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, she leaves behind a legacy defined by her loving soul and remarkable will.
Ruth was well known for planning ahead and wanted this quote to be shared in her obituary:

In the end, the best we can hope for is that we’ve left our mark on the people who matter most to us, that we’ve loved them so well, a piece of us will forever remain a part of them. ― Jennifer Ryan

Life's Journey and Loves.
Ruth was born in Marion, Ohio, the daughter of the late Ernest Baynes Allen Sr. and Bonna Estell (Allinder) Allen. She was baptized at Mt. Olive Methodist Church in Marion, OH where she lived for most of her life. On January 9, 1976, she married Paul Lyon and was forevermore his “Ruthie”. They retired together to their beloved lakehouse in Honor, Michigan in 1989.
Ruth spent the final years of her life living in the San Francisco Bay Area to be closer to her son J.R., and family. Over the years she opened her heart to her children’s own friends, becoming known as “Mom” and “Momma Ruth” to many of them. She enjoyed spending time with friends, playing bridge, sharing margaritas, and caring for those that she loved. She remained well connected with family, friends, and all of her ‘kids’ far and near through Social Media.

A Life of Strength and Generosity.
Ruth will be remembered as a true survivor with a strong character and enormous heart. She endured the hardships of losing two children and a grandchild, and bravely battling and surviving two types of cancer. Even throughout these struggles, she remained positive and unfailingly giving to those around her. Even though she downplayed it when her friends told her she was strong, her strength, love, and resilience was an inspiration to all who knew her.

Throughout her life, Ruth was a member of numerous organizations for which she cared deeply, and served on the board of many of them. She was especially proud of her profound and meaningful work with Compassionate Friends, an organization offering friendship, understanding, and hope to bereaved families that have experienced the death of a child, grandchild, or sibling.
Ruth wrote the following two poems upon the passing of her grandchild, Jessica.

Organizational Memberships
Member, St. Philip’s Episcopal Church & Choir, Warden & Lay Reader, St. Philip’s Episcopal Church Member, St. Luke’s Society
Recipient Citizen of the Year Award 2001 of Benzie Co.,MI Facilitator, Bereavement Support Group Facilitator, Children’s Grief Therapy Editor, Bereavement Support Newsletter Member, Transitions Task Force, Grand Traverse Region Member, Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital Auxiliary Team Captain, United Way Past member and President, Marion County Medical Auxiliary Marion, Ohio Past member, Women’s Hospital Board Marion General Hospital, Marion, Ohio Past member, Marion Country Club Marion,Ohio

Family
Ruth was preceded in death by Husband - Paul Lyon, Daughter - Terri Huggins, Granddaughter - Jessica McCoy, Daughter - Lori Hoffman, Son-in-Law - Mike Hoffman, Daughter-in-law - Sandra Lyon, Brother - Ernie Allen, Sister - Lois Phelps,

She is survived by her loving family Son - J.R. Parish (Bill Delaney) - San Francisco, CA, Son - David Lyon - Conroe, TX, Son - Jon Lyon (Shelly) - Soddy Daisy, TN, Daughter - Barbara Postell (Mark) - Marion, OH, Daughter - Anne Lyon - Amelia, OH, Sister-in-law - Jean Lyon - Russell, KY, Niece - Carolyn Walters - Marion, OH, Niece - Jeannie Ahern (Jim) - Marion, OH, Grandkids - Brittany, Tiffany, Terri, Nora, Jodi, Broc, Lindsay, Sara, Joshua, Chad, Christopher, Lauren Great Grandkids - Brynnlee, Avery, Andrew, Carson, Hudson, Sophia, Hillary, Leah, Halee, Hannah, Keegan, Bryenna, Great Great Granddaughter - Freya
Many other Cousins, Great Nieces and Nephews. All of her dear friends at Truewood, and every place she's ever lived. Her friends were her family.

Funeral Services and Interment
A memorial service to celebrate Ruth's life will be held in the Bay Area at [TO BE CONFIRMED].
A second ceremony and burial will take place in Ohio at a date in the near future. Ruth will be laid to rest with family at Grand Prairie Cemetery in Marion.

Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to: The Compassionate Friends - a self-help organization offering friendship, understanding, and hope to bereaved families.
Turning Point - Marion, Ohio - which serves domestic violence victims and their families.
Muttville - which provides rescue, foster, adoption, and hospice services for senior dogs aged seven and older.

11/28/2025

Lynda J McDonald of Kaleva passed away November 23, 2025, at the age of 60.

She was preceded in death by her parents Elayne and Eldon McDonald as well as her brother Bob McDonald.

She is survived by sons Roary (Meredith Brookshear) McDonald, and David Bloore, daughters Randi (Chadd) Knapp, and Devin Mooney, grandchildren, Wyatt McDonald, Ryan McDonald, Peyton Knapp, Johnathan Knapp, Colton Knapp, Madison Fast, and Abel Spaulding, sister Karrin (Brian) Veenstra, sister in law Colleen McDonald, nieces Vanessa Ihle, Alison Bird, Daniela Hoggard, Caitlyn Melnyk, and Kelly McDonald, and nephew Josh McDonald.

Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia. www jowettfamilyfuneralhome.com

11/28/2025

Silvia Bolado passed away November 23, 2025 at the age of 73. Full Obituary to follow. A service will be held on Thursday December 4th at 1:00 pm at Jowett Family Funeral Home in Benzonia. A visitation will start at 11:00 am. Burial will be in Benzonia Township Cemetery.

Jowett Family Funeral Home and Cremation

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