Wolfe-O'Neill Funeral Home

28/08/2025

Richard Girard Simmons, age 86, of Cadillac, Michigan passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 16, 2024, at Munson Medical Center Traverse City, MI following a brief illness. Richard was born September 6, 1938, in Royal Oak, MI to Charles Simmons and Catherine (Roe) Simmons, he was...

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20/08/2025

Charles James Altsman, Jr., 80, of Lake City, passed away on August 14, 2025 at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. He was born on March 17, 1945 in Ellwood City, Pennsylvania, to the late Charles and Velma (McConahy) Altsman, Sr.
No services are planned at this time.
Arrangements were made...

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20/08/2025

Lauren D. Rice, 78, of Kalkaska, passed away on August 18, 2025 at his home. He was born on November 1, 1946 in Muskegon to the late Harold and Doris (Hatch) Rice.
Cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this time.
Arrangements were made by Wolfe-O'Neill Funeral Home, our family...

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14/08/2025

Pauline Alice Garner, 81, passed away peacefully in her sleep at the family farm on Friday, August 8, 2025. She was born on January 26, 1944, in Hazel Park, Michigan, to the late Paul and Henrietta Krosing.

Pauline grew up in Fife Lake and graduated from Kalkaska High School. In 1962, she...

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14/08/2025

Linda Lou Daugherty, 81, from Kalkaska, passed away on August 13, 2025 at her home with her family by her side. She was born on October 2, 1943 in Gibson County, Indiana to the late William and Goldie (Williams) Vaupel.
Linda graduated from Owensville High School. She married Duane “Doc”...

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09/08/2025

Lawrence "Larry" G. Ludeman, 86, of Frederic, passed away on August 6, 2025 at Grayling Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was born on June 1, 1939 in Napoleon, OH, to the late Theodore and Evelyn (Burke) Ludeman.
Larry was retired, after spending +30 years working in the Industrial Gas...

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07/08/2025

Joseph F. Shaw, 78, of South Boardman and formerly of Detroit, passed away on August 4, 2025 surrounded by his family at home. He was born on June 14, 1947 in Mt. Clemons to the late William and Norma (Essig) Shaw.
Joseph served our country honorably in the USMC. After the military he joined the...

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05/08/2025

Robert "Boomer, Bobby, Bob" Dale Ball, 57, lifelong resident of Kalkaska, passed away on August 3, 2025 at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. He was born on September 6, 1967 in Kalkaska to the late Roger and Bonnie "Fry" ball. Their only son, he was smack dab in the middle of four sisters. Bobby is known as a "Jack of all trades and master of none" although he mastered the gift of gab and storytelling, inherited from his Dad. He worked a variety of jobs, from the restaurant industry, oil fields, construction, maintenance, and unlicensed electrician. Bobby worked for his in-laws for over two decades at Wash Tyme Laudromat as their machine and dry cleaner tech. He learned masonry at the age of 11 and helped with the stones laid at Carol's Cafe' now known as Trout Town. Many years of hefting 50 pound bags of cement as an adolescent caused spine damage which led him to medically retire at a young age. With retirement, Bobby found volunteering for the community as a way to stay busy and it became very close to his heart especially doing anything where he could help out kiddos. He was a longtime volunteer at the Springfield Twp. Park and Recreation Area. He served on their governing body for several years. A few of the other events and groups to benefit from his help were the Kalkaska County Fair, Kalkaska Unified Ministries for Christ Community Dinner and VBS programs, Kalkaska Commission on Aging, Kalkaska 4-H, and many others. He even helped out at June's Kalkaska Showdown Drag Races. Bobby is survived by his partner Heidi (Woodcock) Helberg of 36 years; their son, Christopher Helberg; sisters, Deb Ball-Odeh, Teresa Ball both of Kalkaska, Tammy Ball and Tara Marie Ball, both of Belleville; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Kim and Don Fisher of TN; nephews, Michael Cleggett, partner Brianne and children, James, Kyler, and Rylan; James Boyce and his children, Winnie, Coleson and Elijah; Quentin, Jacob and Chene Moran; and Spencer Hamilton; his favorite niece, Victoria Wehrmeister, her husband Nick, and their children Dominic and Alyssa; and another favorite niece, Cheyenne (Kody) Beyette, their children Genevieve, Re*****on, Charlotte, Asher, Stevie, Claire, Dylan, Adalynn and Carson; uncles Dennis and Douglas (Sharon) Fry; and several cousins. Bobby was preceded in death by his parents; mother-in-law and father-in-law Peggy and Skip Woodcock; grandparents, Grover and Gladys (Wheeler) Ball, Irving and Doris (Besaw) Fry; aunts, Barb Crider, Jeanette Cooper, Ruby all and Thelma Ball; uncles Bill Elking, Ralph Crider, Buck Cooper, Stanley Ball and Duane Ball. Memorial donations may be made to the Unmet Need Fund of the Kalkaska Commission of Aging, PO Box 28, Kalkaska, MI 49646 or to the Community Meals fund at the Kalkaska Unified Ministries for Christ, 2525 Beebe Rd., Kalkaska, MI 49646. Arrangements were made by Wolfe-O'Neill Funeral Home, our family serving yours.

25/07/2025

Allen L. Blanshan, 63, lifelong resident of Kalkaska, passed away on July 23, 2025 at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City. He is the son of Allen and Grace (Tracy) Blanshan. Allen attended Kalkaska High School. After graduation he worked in the oil fields and later as a mechanic. His hobbies included working on cars and computers. Allen is survived by his loving mother, Grace Ricketts; his siblings, Robert Morrill, Rosanne Kelley, Debora Morrill, Mark Blanshan and Christine Linz all of Kalkaska. Funeral services will be held o Monday, July 28th at 12:00 pm at Wolfe-O'Neill Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 11:00 am until the time of service. Arrangements were made by Wolfe-O'Neill Funeral Home, our family serving yours.

18/07/2025

Tyrone “Ty” Shauan, Sr. age 78 of Kalkaska, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at home with his wife by his side. He was born to the late Fred and Rhoda (Justice) Shauan on November 28, 1946, in Columbus, Ohio.
Ty married Catherine "Cathi" Barnum on December 24, 2017, in Kalkaska after he moved from Massachusetts to the quiet solitude of northern Michigan. He loved to collect knives, cameras, and photos. He was an artist, a photographer, he also enjoyed outdoor cooking, bonfires, and all music. Ty was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was a proud Veteran, serving in the United States Navy on the USS Neptune during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in November of 1967.
He is survived by his loving wife Cathi Barnum; his children Darlene (William) Pliskaner and Ty Shauan, Jr.; step-children Casey Goeckerman, Heidi (William Fairbotham) Gossard, Gretchen (Jason) Ritter-Lopatowski; many grandchildren including Brandon (Katelynn), Zachary, Lauren, Tyler, Kelsey, Maggie (Vinnie), Benjamin, Abby, Austin, David, Haley, Jakob, and Carol; his siblings Fred Shauan, Patricia (Jerry) Opsahl, Jean Bender, Jane Workman, Belinda (Gerald) Tuttle; along with his wife's, Cathi's, seven siblings and their spouses; many nieces and nephews; his fur babies Max, Ginger, Cari, and Doti.
He was preceded in passing by a faithful dog, Morgan.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. with a visitation beginning at 1:00 p.m. until the time of service at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Kalkaska.
Interment will be held in Excelsior Township Cemetery.
Arrangements were made by Wolfe-O’Neill Funeral Home, our family serving yours.

17/07/2025

In Loving Memory of Richard Lester Dean ("Dick")

Dick Dean, aged 81, graduated to Heaven on July 13, 2025, joyfully reunited with his beloved wife, Diane E. Dean. Born in Jeddo, he journeyed through life in Grand Blanc and Kalkaska, Michigan, leaving behind an enduring legacy of love, kindness, and joy.

A dedicated family man, Dick lived for the cherished moments with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. An avid outdoorsman, he found peace in nature, whether it was hunting, fishing, camping, or simply strolling through the woods. His love for life extended to bowling and lively card games, where the thrill was not just in winning but in sharing laughter with those, he held dear.

Dick shared a beautiful life with his best friend and soulmate, Diane Fulcher, whom he married on July 5, 1963, in Jeddo, Michigan. Together, they built a loving home and family. He is survived by his son Richard J. Dean, wife Margo (Slusher) Dean, and daughter, April L. Dean. April blessed him with adored grandchildren: Shandel (Steven) Sorenson, William L. Wells Jr., Jessica R. Wells, and great-grandchildren: Brysen, Owen, Ezra, Carson, Sophia, Roman, and Lukas.

Preceded in death by his cherished wife Diane in 2008, Dick is now reunited with his parents, Lester and Ethlyn (Decker) Dean, and his siblings Jack, Dave, Merrit, Robert, Burt, Rosemary, Dorothy, and Wanita, as well as many dear friends.

His welcoming spirit and generous nature touched all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, as well as his treasured nephews and nieces. Heartfelt memories remain with lifelong friend Jim Cooper, honorary sister Merrie Stalker, hunting buddy and bantering partner Tim Campough, and special friend Kathy Alexander.

Richard Lester Dean’s life was a testament to love, friendship, and giving selflessly to others. May he rest in peace, forever embraced by those who loved him and cherished the memories he leaves behind. His spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew him.

Arrangements provided by Wolfe-O'Neill Funeral Home, our family serving yours.

12/07/2025

Billy Edward Little, age 44, of Flint, Michigan, passed away on July 11, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Born on October 5, 1980, in Flint, Michigan, Billy was the cherished son of Janet Little and the late Billy Little. Affectionately known by many as “Bo,” he was a man whose presence could fill a room with warmth, laughter, and unforgettable stories.

He is survived by his daughter, Keira Little. Though their time together was limited, Keira remained an important part of Billy’s heart throughout his life.

Billy shared a close and loving bond with his sisters, Tina Mosher (Bryan) and Lisa Compson (Bodie), and was a beloved uncle to his nieces and nephews: Brandon Washburn (Maria), Blake Washburn, Brianna Washburn, Bryan Washburn, and Macy Compson. He was also a proud great-uncle to Vivian Washburn, Maelyn Washburn, and Scotlynn Washburn.

He also leaves behind his loving girlfriend, Brooke Handy, who stood faithfully by his side and filled his days with care and companionship. Billy formed a special bond with Brooke’s children, Mahryea and Aiden, whom he cared for deeply and loved as his own. He also held great affection and respect for Brooke’s parents, who welcomed him into their lives with kindness and warmth.

Billy was a proud and hardworking member of both Iron Workers Local 25 and Sheet Metal Workers Local 7. He took great pride in his craft and built his career with strength, skill, and determination.

Outside of work, Bo was just as strong in spirit and even more unforgettable. He was known for turning even the most awkward or difficult moments into something funny. He had a natural gift for lightening heavy situations, often using humor to ease tension and bring comfort to those around him. His quick wit and ability to laugh—even in hard times—made him someone people naturally turned to.

He fought fiercely for the people he loved and never hesitated to stand up for what he believed in. Billy was always up for an adventure—whether it was trying out a wild idea, riding his motorcycle down open roads, or embracing the unexpected with curiosity and courage.

He was also a passionate sports fan who proudly rooted for the Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions—no matter the score. Game days were important to him, and cheering on his teams was just another way he shared excitement and connection with the people around him.

He had a spontaneous spirit and a loyal heart, and he lived his life with boldness, humor, and deep affection for those close to him.

At this time, there is no service scheduled, but the family plans to celebrate and honor Billy’s life at a later date.

In remembrance of Billy, the family kindly invites you to plant a tree or flower as a living tribute to his memory.

Though gone too soon, Billy will be remembered always for the love he gave and the light he shared.

Arrangements provided by Wolfe-O’Neill Funeral Home, our family serving yours.