Kranz Funeral Home

08/27/2025

John James Barden, Jr.

JOHN JAMES BARDEN, JR.

John J. Barden, Jr., 98, of Kingston, died Monday, August 25, 2025 in Heritage Hill Assisted Living and Memory Care of Caro. He was born March 21, 1927 in Marlette Hospital to John James and Edna May (Warner) Barden, Sr. He married Janet Elaine Shotwell on June 11, 1954 in Marlette Presbyterian Church.

John attended school in Kingston, the first year they had kindergarten, in 1932. He graduated from Kingston High School in 1945. John was eighteen years old and subject to the draft during World War II. He was called to service six weeks before graduation, and served with the United States Navy in the Pacific Theater. Following this time, he returned home to work with his father in the family hardware and appliance business. John enrolled in the Industrial Training Institute in Chicago, where he studied air conditioning and refrigeration and used this knowledge when he returned to the family business.

He served on the Kingston Village Fire Department for forty-six years, during which time he also acted as Fire Chief. John was on the fire department when they purchased their first fire truck. In the late 1960’s, he worked for a division of General Motors as a service supervisor. John officially retired, at the age of 75, in 2002. Together, he and Janet enjoyed many winters in Florida, where he was fond of riding his bike. Throughout his life, he was a very active member of the community and give his time, energy, and support to many organizations. John was a Kingston Village Council member for four years, a member of the Michigan Hardware Association for sixty years, and the Cass City Hospital Board of Directors. He held a position on the Kingston State Bank Board of Directors, for over twenty years, until it became Independent Bank. John always enjoyed conversations about finances. He was a life member of the Kingston AMVETS Post #1072, a fifteen-year member of American Legion Post #7 of Caro, and the Kingston Lions Club. John’s favorite activities included working in his garden, begin outside, walking in the woods, and winning at Euchre. Most importantly, he loved the hardware store and helping the community out.

John is survived by his loving wife of seventy-one years, Janet; his children: Jayne Houghton of Essexville, Timothy Barden of Kingston, Jill (Tim) Henley of Clarkston, Jack (Dodie) Barden of Chicago, Ill; step-daughter, Pamela (David) Zyrowski of Caro; step-son, Donald “Randy” (Karla) Lyons of Kingston; twelve grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his granddaughter, Liberty Lyons; brothers: Charles Barden, Don Barden; sisters: Welda Willert, Elaine Petiprin.

A memorial celebration will be held at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, August 30, 2025 in Beagio's Pizza, 5795 Sanilac Road, Kingston, MI 48741 with visiting from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m. Ann Laundra will lead the celebration. Memorials may be made to the Kingston Community Church or the Kingston Wesleyan Church. Military honors conducted by the American Legion Post #7 of Caro, and the U.S. Navy Honor Guard.

Arrangements by Kranz Funeral Home, Kingston

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08/11/2025

William Scott Conrad

WILLIAM SCOTT CONRAD

William S. Conrad, 65, of Cass City, died unexpectedly Friday, August 8, 2025 in his home. He was born June 17, 1960 in Opa Locka, FL to William Gail and Billie June (Ashley) Conrad. He married Kelly Marie Dillon on October 8, 2005. They were married for twenty years, but they were together for thirty-five years.

Scott loved trucking and his career as an over-the-road truck driver. He drove for thirty years, until he was no longer able to due to health issues. Scott was an avid fan of the Detroit Lions and the Miami Dolphins. He enjoyed golfing, watching NASCAR, and playing Texas Hold ‘Em. Scott was fond of mowing his lawn and making certain it looked good. Spending time with his wife, friends, and family is what he cherished the most.

Scott is survived by his wife, Kelly of Cass City; his son, Andrew Conrad of Sullivan, MO; step-children: Stacey ( Nick) Peacock of Lee’s Summit, MO; Keith (Brandy) Graham of Cabot, AK; Scott (Laura) Miller of Marshfield, MO; his grandchildren: Zachary Peacock, Ethan Peacock, Joseph Evans, Lauren Evans, Anna Havens, Jessica Vance; his mother-in-law, Reva Dillon; brother-in-law, Pat (Cheryl) Dillon; sisters-in-law: Kim (Henry) Buehrly, Kerry (George) Baumgardener, Becky (Joe) O’Harris; many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Marina Whisenet; sister-in-law, Lori Gruber; his favorite pets: Cheyenne, Cleo, and Tucker.

A memorial celebration will be held at a later date. Memorials may be considered to Kelly Conrad to be used at the family’s discretion.

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08/07/2025

Memorial Service will be Saturday, August 9, 2025 in Novesta Church of Christ, Cass City

View Henry Alan "Hank" Langenburg's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

07/30/2025

Rebecca Marie Arroyo

REBECCA MARIE ARROYO

Rebecca M. Arroyo, 66, of Florida, formerly of Cass City, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 20, 2025. She was born October 24, 1958 in Cass City to Luis and Lila Arroyo. She grew up surrounded by her siblings: Gloria, Lori, Louie, and Linda.

Rebecca was a loving daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, and friend. She dedicated herself to caring for her family and home, she always made sure her loved ones were taken care of and created a welcoming home to all. She took great pride in everything she did, and her hands were rarely still. Her passion for cooking, baking, gardening, and interior decorating were second to none. Rebecca liked to shop and was a thoughtful gift giver. She wouldn’t hesitate to buy you “a little something” if she saw it and knew you would love it. Rebecca loved to decorate and host for the holidays. Her beloved Santa collection was quite the conversation starter. In her younger years, she painted ceramics and gifted many cherished pieces that will be passed down for generations. Rebecca’s Christian faith was an important part of her life.

After her children were in school, she continued taking care of others in the dentistry and orthodontic fields and in-home health care later in life. She would never pass up an opportunity to babysit, pulling out all of her children’s toys that she had been saving for her future grandchildren.

Rebecca will be remembered for her bright smile, feisty spirit, selfless heart, and her ability to make everyone feel welcome. Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know her. A gentle, lasting reminder that the truest kind of strength is found in care and connection.

Rebecca is survived by her daughter, Carey (Shawn Stanley) Chard; her son Jarod (Kelly) Chard, and her adored grandchildren: Devon, Charlie, and Clayton. Of all the roles she held, she loved being a grandmother most of all.

Graveside service will be held 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 in Ellington Township Cemetery with Sam Leppert, Funeral Celebrant officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations may be considered to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Arrangements by Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City

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07/26/2025

Elfriede Anna Englehart

ELFRIEDE ANNA ENGLEHART

Elfriede A. Englehart, 97, of Deford died Sunday, July 20, 2025 in Meadow Lane Assisted Living of Bad Axe. She was born December 9, 1927 in Handschuhsheim, Germany. Elfriede married Lawrence Arthur Englehart on January 26, 1948 in the Novesta Church of Christ Parsonage. He died December 26, 2010.

Elfriede grew up in the hills of Western Germany, where she loved family outings with her brothers and sister, climbing mountains to drink from fresh springs, swimming across the Neckar River, and visiting Heidelberg Schloss on Sundays after church. Her best friend, Ruth, from kindergarten, was her constant companion. As a young woman, Elfriede loved to dance and was always social, going out evenings with Ruth.

She worked as an apprentice in a grocery store, where her warm spirit shone. Through friends, she met her husband and instantly fell in love, but they waited over two years, staying devoted despite the distance, until she immigrated to the United States to marry him and start their family. From there, Elfriede became an amazing cook, known for her German dishes, always wanting to feed everyone, even if they were full—a running family joke.

She served her church tirelessly, and cooked for every funeral and luncheon with love and care. Quick-witted and funny, she cheered for her Detroit Tigers, though she’d sigh when they struggled. A fierce game-player, Elfriede brought energy to every table. She made friends everywhere, shining in her quilting club, children’s church, and supporting countless families in need. A devoted mother, she poured love into raising her kids and adoring her grandkids. Her marriage was a true partnership. Elfriede leaves a legacy of love, laughter, and generosity. She was a kind, caring soul who touched many lives.

Elfriede is survived by her sons: Lawrence Englehart of Vermontville, Ron (Catherine) Englehart of Strasburg. Colorado; Kevin (Michelle) Englehart of Sand Point; grandchildren: Erin (Matt) Welker, Ben (Lindee) Englehart, Will (Jessica) Englehart, Andrew (Sarah) Englehart, Audrey Tetreau, James Englehart; great grandchildren: Zachary, Ella, Lilah, Lucy, Eli, Silas, Ryan, Emily, Amelia; many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband and infant children: Gerald Arthur Englehart, Johanna Ruth Englehart; her siblings.

Funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 31, 2025 in Novesta Church of Christ, Cass City with Brad Speirs officiating. Interment in Novesta Township Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial to Elfriede’s favorite charity, March of Dimes or to Novesta Church of Christ, Cass City.

Visitation: 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 30, 2025 in Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City

10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Thursday, July 31, 2025 in Novesta Church of Christ, Cass City

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07/24/2025

funeral service for Robert Morley

07/24/2025

Henry Alan "Hank" Langenburg

HENRY ALAN “HANK” LANGENBURG

Hank Langenburg, 68, of Snover, died unexpectedly Sunday, July 20, 2025 in his home. He was born October 15, 1956 in Cass City to Louis Justin and Janette Margaret (Goniwicha) Langenburg. He married Kelly Joan Walsh on June 16, 1990 in St. Ignatius Church, Freiburg.

Hank worked as a plumber with his dad and for Don Vansickle Plumbing. He earned his plumbing license and was a self-employed plumber for many years. He always took pride in his work and was a perfectionist. Hank was a people person and looked forward to taking care of people. He had a big heart and was generous. Hank was even known for sometimes completing his plumbing services for free. Often referred to as “Spanky”, he enjoyed deer hunting and fishing with his cousin, Paul Langenburg, and his friend, Jim Shim. Hank was a good cook and did a lot of canning from the produce he grew in his garden. He was also an animal lover. Hank loved shopping and happily created piles of Christmas gifts around the tree. He was great with kids, especially his grandchildren.

Hank is survived by his wife of thirty five years, Kelly of Snover; sons: Matt (Kristen) Ender of Caro; Chase (Andrea Inbody) Nichols of Cass City; grandchildren: Masen Nichols, Ryker Nichols; siblings: Rita (Robert) Rockwell of Cass City, Barbara Langenburg of Livonia, Louie Langenburg of Howell, Sally Nicholas of Cass City, Jenny (Karl) Zawilinski of Cass City, Ann Koosis of Houston, TX; Evelyn Minard of Snover, Sue (Gary) Kitchen of Mayville, Brenda (Steven) Reeves of Howell, Val (Jeremy) Somerville of Cass City, Joseph (Colleen) Langenburg of Cass City, Leigh (Denise Grifka) Langenburg of Ubly, Michael (Heather) Langenburg of Cass City, William Langenburg of Holly Springs, NC; sister-in-law, Lana Padilla; brothers-in-law: Craig (Diane) Walsh, Bryan (Kim) Walsh, Kim (Ken) Shemka, Kari Walsh, Darrell Walsh; many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents; infant sister, Kathryn; brothers-in-law: Christopher Peters, Jack Kappen, Randy Walsh; niece, Aleigh Kappen.

Memorial service held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 9, 2025, in Novesta Church of Christ, Cass City with Brad Speirs officiating. Memorials may be made to Kelly Langenburg to be used for the family discretion.

Visitation: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday, August 9, 2025 in Novesta Church of Christ, Cass City

Arrangements by Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City

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07/23/2025

Gary Michael Robinson

GARY MICHAEL ROBINSON

Gary M. Robinson, 60, of Cass City died Monday, July 21, 2025 in Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit. He was born on November 8, 1964 in Bad Axe to Philip Lee and Sandra Kathryn (Janowiak) Robinson.

Gary graduated from Cass City High School in 1982. As a junior in high school, Gary worked on the farm owned by his grandparents, Cliff and Gladys Robinson, where he continued working for many years after high school graduation. Following an illness in the family, Gary then worked at the Severance Farm for over twenty years. Later, Gary worked for Michigan Sugar in Caro until he started having health issues. Sports was his life and he watched all Cass City sports. He played as a pitcher on church league softball teams and they were dominant league winners. Gary also pitched on the Charmont fast pitch team. As a bowler, at the Charmont and Brentwood, he bowled two 300 games, two 299, and a 800 series. Gary coached girls’ junior high basketball and boy’s freshman basketball. He enjoyed golfing with his brother Ed and nephew Ryan. Gary loved all U of M sports and the Detroit Red Wings. He had a passion for NASCAR and his favorite drivers were Mark Martin and Denny Hamlin. Gary’s favorite card games were Euchre, Uno, Shanghai, Texas Hold ‘Em. He was fond of playing three card poker, at the casino. Gary was a Third Degree member of the Knights of Columbus.

Gary is survived by his mother, Sandy Robinson of Cass City; siblings: Annette (Rob) Brown of Oxford, Edward Robinson of Caro, Connie Ezell of Columbus, OH; Vicky Robinson of Cass City; nephews: Brent Robinson, Derick Robinson, Timothy Ezell, Ryan Robinson; niece, Hailie Robinson; great nephew, Leo Robinson; great niece, Aurora Robinson. He is preceded in death by his father, Philip Robinson; grandparents: Aurthur (Sylvia) Janiowiak, Cliff (Gladys) Robinson; uncles: Don Janowiak, Danny Robinson; aunt, Shirley Parks.

Funeral mass held 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 25, 2025 in Our Lady Consolata, Cass City with Fr. Robert Pare’ officiating. Interment will be in Elkland Township Cemetery. Pallbearers for Mr. Robinson: Ken Pichla, Derick Robinson, Timothy Ezell, Ryan Robinson, Mark Halabis, Dieter Roth. Memorials may be made to the family.

Visitation: 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 24, 2025 in Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City

9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 25, 2025 in Our Lady Consolata, Cass City

Arrangements by Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City, Michigan

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07/22/2025

Cheryl Suzanne Hall

CHERYL SUZANNE HALL

Cheryl S. Hall, 64, of Ypsilanti Twp. passed away peacefully, with her family by her side, on Sunday, June 29, 2025 in Trinity Health Ann Arbor Hospital. She was born September 8, 1960 in Mount Clemens General Hospital to Wayne Edwin and Caryl (Zahre) Hall.

Cheryl grew up in her family home with her parents and two sisters. She graduated from Lincoln High School in 1977. In 1979, she married her first husband and had two beautiful daughters, one born in 1983 and the other in 1986. Cheryl divorced in late 1986 and became a single parent for a few years. She was married to her second husband in 1989. Cheryl worked for Automotive Molding for about seven years before she gave birth to her son. In early 1996, she became very ill and an aneurysm caused her to spend four months in the hospital. In August of 1997, Cheryl and her family moved from Detroit to Deford. Cheryl became a stay-at-home mom and helped with the family farm. She loved being with her horse, Billy.

As Cheryl’s health increased, she went to help out at a dairy farm in Deford where she enjoyed taking care of the calf barn. Following a divorce in 2001, she took a part time job working on an onion farm for a few summers in Unionville. Cheryl really enjoyed farming and gardening, especially her prized seven sisters rose bushes. These were her favorite flowers. In 2004, she met the love of her life, Larry. They were marred in 2007 and she moved to Ypsilanti to be with him. Together, they loved going on roads trips and to garage sales. They worked on arts and crafts together and sold some of her crafts on Facebook Marketplace. Cheryl was fond of hanging out at the Eagle’s Club and dancing. She said it relaxed her. She battled cancer a few times, once in 2013, in 2016, and most recently for the last few months of her life.

Cheryl is survived by her husband, Larry Utley; daughter, April (Arthur) Brinkman; son, Jeremy (fiancé, Aliana Patterson) Decent, Sr; son, Michael (Kim) Decent; son, James (Amy) Davidson; daughter, Vicky (Doug) Ingram; daughter, Chrissy Slingleton; daughter, Sabrina (her significant other, Paul) Angaran; step daughter, April (Keith) Barry; three step children and many “adopted” children. Her grandchildren: Seth, Amber, Hunter, Brooklyn, Chevy, Jack, Jeremy Jr., Autumn, Aurora, and many more grandchildren and great grandchildren; sisters: Valerie Makurat, Vanessa Owen; three nieces, great nieces, great nephews, and many close friends. She is preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Brandy Dickson; niece, Marianne Owen.

Cremation has taken place and burial will be in Elkland Township Cemetery.

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07/18/2025

Robert Albee Morley

ROBERT ALBEE MORLEY

Robert A. Morley, 84, of Cass City died Monday, July 14, 2025 in Covenant Medical Center, Saginaw. He was born April 21, 1941 in Oliver Twp., Elkton to Clifford and Emma (Gardner) Morley. He married Helen Sweeney on October 24, 1970. Together, they had two children: Kimberly and Brent. Helen died on January 15, 1992. He married Margie Cheney on August 6, 1994.

Robert graduated from Elkton Community School in 1959. He was employed for many years, processing beans, at the Elkton Co-Op Elevator. Robert enjoyed time spent playing golf and dancing, but his true talent was woodworking, especially wood carving. He was a member of Community of Christ Church in Caro. Robert always kept busy and he could fix anything that was broken.

Robert is survived by his wife, Margie; daughter, Kimberly (Matt) Braun; son, Brent (Deb) Morley; stepson, Joe (Michelle) Prather; grandchildren: Ashley (Jared) Sattelberg, Rachel Braun, Austin Prather; great grandchildren: Alaina Prather, Connor Prather; sisters: Lucille Wells, June (Gene) Osantowski; sister-in-law, Marlene (Jerry) Schlaud; many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his sisters: Ila (Olson) McCallum, Shirley Pitcher; brothers-in-law: Dale Wells, Marvin (June) Smith.

Memorial service held 11:00 a.m. Thursday July 24, 2025 in Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City with Elder Mike Dubs and Robert’s niece, Elder Rosey McCallum officiating. Interment will be in Elkland Township Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Community of Christ Church of Caro or Donor’s choice.

Visitation: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Thursday, July 24, 2025 in Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City

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07/17/2025

Donald Kenneth Hanzek

DONALD KENNETH HANZEK

Dr. Donald K. Hanzek, 94, entered his eternal rest on July 14, 2025. Don did the New York Times Sunday puzzles in ink: no need for an eraser, he got it right the first time. Don was a natural teacher, and he spent a lifetime passing along his seemingly endless wisdom and knowledge. As a police officer in Detroit and East Lansing, he literally wrote the book on how to write police reports. Don taught French and English in Bath, Cheboygan, and Brooklyn; he went on to teach English and police report writing at Ferris State University. Don taught many Reed City high schoolers how to ski (though none ever matched his effortless grace). He taught his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren how to live with dignity, curiosity, and laughter.

The most important thing he ever got right was marrying Myrtle Stevens. For seventy-two years Don and his beloved Mickie showed us all the meaning of the words, “for richer, for poorer; in sickness and in health.” He was her caretaker to her final breath, and the year he spent without her was the hardest of his life. Don looked forward to seeing her again in eternity, and although we will miss him terribly, we are glad to let him go to her, and grateful for a life that was lived with integrity and written in ink.

Don was preceded in death by his wife, parents, eight brothers, six sisters, and a great-grandson. He is survived by his daughter, Laurel (Phililp) Tousley; son, Steven (Gail) Hanzek; grandchildren: Jeremy (Jennifer) Peters, Briony (Michael) Desotell, Carrie Hanzek, Rachel Hanzek, Lillian Hanzek; four great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews.

A private graveside celebration of life will be held at a later date. If you wish to honor Don’s memory, support your local library and remember to keep reading.

Arrangements by Kranz Funeral Home, Cass City

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07/15/2025

funeral