Author: Doug Donnelly

Litchfield Park, Ariz.— Leon E. Brown was born June 7, 1945, to Glenn and Audrey (Dings) Brown. He died Sept. 13, 2015 at home in Litchfield Park, Ariz.
Leon graduated in 1963 from Blissfield High School as co-salutatorian and went on to college at Michigan Technical University with a masters degree in the Science of Nuclear Engineering.
He went on to work in the nuclear industry including at the Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station in Phoenix, Ariz. as a start-up manager. He also started his own business, Leeda Enterprises, where he did consulting work. He worked for A.L.A.R.A. Engineer where he wrote decommissioning procedures for nuclear power plants in California, Michigan, Tennessee and Florida, and teaching procedures at seminars in France and Germany.
Leon and his wife Rheda enjoyed scuba diving in the Florida Keys, the Bahamas, Mexico and Jamaica. He also enjoyed golfing, carpentry and cruising in the Caribbean and along the waters around Mexico. Rheda preceded him in death in 2010
Leon leaves behind his daughter Connie (Grant) Belsterling, and grandchildren, Brittany and Grant Ryan Belsterling, a son Craig Harris and granddaughter Selena Harris, all of Arizona and New Mexico. Also surviving is a sister, Elaine (Jim) Filipek of Blissfield.
Leon was a gentle giant, a loving husband and father and a man of few words but surprising wit.

Ronald Myron Jacob, age 78, passed away on Wednesday, Sept.16, 2015, at his home in Blissfield, in the care of his family and close friends.
Ron was born on March 27, 1937, in Adrian to Evadna (Maierle) and Myron Jacob, both of whom precede him in death.
Surviving him are his loving wife of 47 years, Sallie (Berry) Jacob, his adoring daughters, Sarah (John) DeCaro of Ellwood City, Pa., and Rachel (Bruno Monnier) Jacob of Chicago, Ill., his grandson, John DeCaro III of State College, Pa., and the son he never had, Tom (Dana) Peltcs of Tecumseh.
Also surviving are his sister, Marilee Purse and nephews, Barry and Gary Purse of Tecumseh.
His education began with eight years in a one-room schoolhouse, with his mother as the teacher, and continued in Blissfield High School until 1955. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Agronomy from Michigan State University in 1959, where he was a member of FarmHouse Fraternity.
He proudly served his country in the US Army during the Berlin Crisis in 1960-62, and was a participant in The Kellogg Farmer Study program from 1966-69, broadening his knowledge of global agriculture.
For many years he was an active member of the Blissfield Rotary Club, serving as president in 1974-75.
Ron was a progressive and successful farmer who was fortunate enough to love his life’s work. In 1979, he co-founded Pro-Seed, Inc., where he was involved in seed production, sales, seed breeding, and promoting improvement of seed stocks. He was proud to serve his customers for over 20 years, retiring in 1999.
Ron was a warm and generous man who took deep pleasure in being a loving husband, devoted father and grandfather, and cherished friend of many. He found relaxation in motor-homing, surf-fishing, and all sports Spartan. Ron loved being at home, too, and was a master of the grill, specializing in super rare lamb chops and steaks. His sharp wit, kindness and integrity will be remembered by all who knew him.
The Jacob family takes this opportunity to express sincere gratitude to dear friends, Tina and Dan Findley of Blissfield, and Pam and Bill Honn of Maumee, OH,who have been of great comfort to us and vigilant during the difficult days before his passing. A very special thank you to long-time friend Sarah Easthope, RN, of Ann Arbor, and Ruth Pontier, RN, of Blissfield for bringing us comfort and security during the long nights they spent with Ron. Hospice of Northwest Ohio has been an additional source of support for which we are most grateful.
Visitation was held from 4-7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, 2015, at Tagsold Chapel of Wagley Funeral Home in Blissfield. Private interment preceded an 11 a.m. memorial service on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2015, at the funeral home, with Pastor Keith Smith officiating. Fellowship celebrating Ron’s life followed.
If you wish to make a memorial contribution in Ron’s name, you may do so to Blissfield Fire Department, Hospice of Northwest Ohio, or the charity of your choice. Online condolences and memories are welcomed at www.WagleyFuneralHome.com

Steven M. Cannon, age 55 of Blissfield, passed away Tuesday, September 8, 2015, at Regency Hospital in Sylvania.
He was born December 4, 1959, in Adrian to John “Jack” and Catherine (Berry) Cannon.
He graduated in 1978 from Blissfield High School where he was very involved in baseball, football, and basketball. Steve was a member of the baseball team that won back-to-back state championships, earning his induction into the Hall of Fame.
On February 7, 2003, Steven married Maria Zimmer, and she survives.
Steve was the parts manager at Knapp Motors in Blissfield for over 30 years.
He remained active in sports, enjoying league bowling, softball and baseball.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his mother, Catherine Reed of Adrian; sons, Eric (Jayme) Cannon of Jacksonville Beach, FL and Brad (Heidi) Cannon of Onsted; grandchildren, Brenden, Brielle and Cruz; siblings, Robert (Kris) Cannon of Blissfield; Diane (Jim Rice) Wilhelm of Sylvania; and Doug (Sharon) Cannon of Palmyra; and three nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Jack Cannon.
Funeral services took place at 11 a.m., Friday, September 11, 2015 at Wagley Funeral Home, Tagsold Chapel in Blissfield with Fr. Jeffrey Poll officiating. Burial was private.
Visitation was held at the funeral home on Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m.
Contributions in memory of Steve may be made to the Lenawee Humane Society. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.WagleyFuneralHome.com.

Charles H. Schultz
July 25, 1943 –Sept 13, 2015
Charles (Chuck) Schultz of Blissfield and Longboat Key, Fla., has passed under the wonderful care of his wife Mary, Sept 13, 2015.
He was a wonderful husband for 47 years to his wife Mary and a great father to his sons David and Joel Schultz.
He is also survived by his brother Ron Schultz, his sister Ada Mae Newton, daughter-in-laws, Robin Schultz and Mary Schultz, his grandchildren Dalton, Timothy, and Nesha, great grandson Timothy Jr., and also so very important in his life, all of his friends.
Charles Shultz was a wonderful provider to his family serving in the Air Force, employed with Eastern airlines, then the University of Michigan hospital, finally retiring to Longboat Key FL with his wife.
Funeral Services were at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, September 18, 2015, at Anderson-Rudd Funeral Home in Blissfield with the Rev. Kristen Parks officiating. Visitation was Thursday Sept 17, from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at Anderson-Rudd Funeral Home, Blissfield.
You may send condolences to the family at www.andersonfuneralservices.com. A luncheon will follow at the Old Mill Museum banquet hall in Dundee, MI.
In lieu of flowers, the family desires donations be made to the Catherine Cobb Domestic Violence Center of Adrian MI in memory of Charles Schultz. Envelopes are available at Anderson-Rudd Funeral Home, Blissfield.

ADRIAN – Doris Marie Graf, age 89, of Adrian, passed away Friday, September 11, 2015, at Lenawee Medical Care Facility.
She was born February 8, 1926, in Adrian, to Thomas and Elizabeth (Stutzman) Lowery.
On August 17, 1946, she married Willard Graf. He preceded her in death on November 13, 2012.
She and her husband, Willard were co-owners and operators of Adrian Oil Burner Service for 30 years.
Doris was a member of the First Church of the Brethren of Adrian. She dearly loved to cook for her family and was best known for her pies. Doris’s family was the center of her life. She was an avid and talented quilter, sharing this gift with others.
She is survived by three sons, Robert (Carolyn) Graf, Thomas (Sally) Graf, and Kenneth (Connie) Graf; two daughters, Kristen (Philip) Vershum and Barbara (Jack) Blaker; one sister, Genevieve Rhinefield; 14 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband, Willard of 67 years, she was preceded in death by her parents and two great-grandchildren, Cody and Brittney Graf.
A Special thanks goes out to the Staff of Lenawee Medical Care Facility for their care and compassion.
Funeral services for Doris were held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, September 15, 2015, at Anderson Funeral Home, Adrian with Pastor David Morton officiating. Interment was in Ogden-Zion Cemetery. Visitation was on Monday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at Anderson Funeral Home, Adrian.
You may send condolences to the family at www.andersonfuneralservices.com. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Lenawee or the Alzheimer’s Association. Envelopes are available at the Anderson Funeral Home, Adrian.

Rose Marie Long, 96, of Blissfield, died September 12, 2015. Rose had been in assisted health care since December, 2009. Surrounded by her family, she passed away quietly in the Nevins home.
Rose was born February 16, 1919, in Antwerp, Ohio to the late Henry and Amelia (Schantz) Mueller. In 1920 the family, with four small children, moved by horse and buggy from Antwerp, OH to establish their Mueller family farming roots north of Deerfield. One of 14 children, Rose attended St. Alphonsus Catholic School (Deerfield) into high school. On May 13th, 1935, in Angola, Indiana she married L. J. Long, son of Orlando and Edna (Baker) Long of Blissfield. They spent their early years near Britton farming livestock before settling into their lifetime residence in Blissfield.
Rose was devoted to home and family. She took pride in cultivating beautiful flower gardens and helped others with theirs. From the abundance of her garden and vineyard, she enjoyed preserving and sharing generously with family and friends. Rose was celebrated for her seemingly effortless baking and cooking. She knitted and was a wonderful seamstress. Rose enjoyed lifelong learning and studied adult business classes at Adrian Schools. As a member of Blissfield’s local chapter of Michigan State Extension Club, she studied topics of interest and explored innovative craft ideas for the home with friends.
In the early years, Rose did laundry and ironings in her home. In 1950 she began working at the Home Canning Company. In 1958 Rose was hired by George Waigle as Floor Lady for the opening season of the Blissfield Canning Company. She was promoted to office manager in 1957 until her retirement in 1990. She also worked for Delzeith Pharmacy (Blissfield) and for the Lenawee County Directory. Rose was an active member of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, volunteering as a member and President of the Altar Rosary Society and worked several years in the parish office. She later served as secretary for the (Vicariate) Council of Catholic Women.
Surviving are one son, Marvin Long; two daughters, Diane Green and Karen (Ken) Nevins; a daughter-in-law, JoAnn Long; one brother, Robert (Alice) Mueller and three sisters, Rita (David) Woods, Carol Bischoff; and Arlene Mueller. Also surviving are grandchildren: Wayne (Sherie) Long; Lorie (Stephanie) Long; Leanne (Brad) Payne, Christine (Bryan) Domschot; Kathy (James) Meinert; Sandy (Candy) Long; Donald (Dana) Long; Debora (Glenn) Green; Cynthia (Chris) Aderhold; Robert (Diane) Long; Tamara (Brian) Jacquet; Todd (Janice) Stark of; Steven (Tammy) Stark; Sean (Amy) Stark; Christopher (Kelly) Nevins; Dana (Brooke) Nevins and Heather (Ryan) Janis. Rose is also survived by 45 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, Rose was preceded in death by her loving husband, L. J. Long (1981); her son, Gerald M. Long (2014); two grandsons, Thomas Allen Long (2008) and Adam Nathanial Nevins (1981); four brothers, Walter Mueller; Frances “Butch” Mueller; Oliver Mueller, Leslie Mueller; and five sisters, LaVerge Clement, Francis Mueller, Valerie Cross, Bonnie Sassak and Janet Mueller.
Visitation wwas held at Anderson-Rudd Funeral Home on Thursday evening, September 17, 2015, from 5-8 p.m. On Friday, September 18, 2015, visitation occurred from 12:00 noon until 6 p.m. at Anderson-Rudd Funeral Home in Blissfield. Visitation then moved on Friday, September 18, 2015 to [St. Peter the Apostle – Blissfield] Light of Christ Parish from 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. where a Vigil Prayer Service was held at 7 p.m. On Saturday, September 19, 2015, visitation occurred from 10 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. at [St. Alphonsus – Deerfield] Light of Christ Parish and was followed by the Funeral Liturgy at 11:00 a.m. with the Rev. Fathers Jeff Poll and Dan Wheeler presiding. Burial followed in Pleasant View Cemetery, Blissfield.
Condolences to the family can be provided through www.andersonfuneralservices.com. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in honor of Rose be offered to Great Lakes Hospice Care, Light of Christ Catholic Church/Music, or Carillon Women’s Chorale Student Scholarship Fund. Envelopes are available at Anderson-Rudd Funeral Home, Blissfield.

Gordon Shannon MD
MARATHON, Fla. — Gordon James Shannon MD passed away peacefully Friday, August 28, 2015, surrounded by his family.
Dr. Shannon was born in Mount Vernon, New York on October 6, 1931, to James and Marian Polly Shannon.
Gordon served proudly in the Navy and Coast Guard from 1948-1955 attaining the rank of Chief Petty Officer.
Following his honorable discharge, he graduated from the University of Florida, and the University of Miami, School of Medicine.  He was a family doctor in Blissfield, Michigan, for a number of years before taking his residency in Surgery at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. He continued his training, and specialized in Cardio/Thoracic surgery.
Dr. Shannon was committed to providing quality medical care for those who had served their country, practicing and teaching in the Veteran’s Administration Medical System, and retiring as Chief of Staff at the VAMC in Salisbury, NC. 
Dr. Shannon loved music, and played many instruments. He was a private pilot, and flew his family on many wonderful adventures.
He retired to Marathon, Florida, where he owned and operated Terra Marine Mobile Home Park, which was established in 1953 by his mother and step-father, Marian and Donald Counihann.
He continued enjoying boating and fishing.
In later years you could see him driving his red scooter to the marina, and grocery stores with his yellow labs, Bubba, then Marley, and occasionally stopping to play his harmonica.
Dr. Shannon was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Jean.
He is survived by his wife, Jeanette; eight children, Gail, Glen, Craig, Linda, Wayne, Judy, Gordy, and Jill, and  grandchildren Michael, Stella, Isadora, Ingrid, Kian, Kaveh, Laleh, Sierra, Canyon, Miles, Brady, Ava, and Cora. 
  Gordon was buried at the National Cemetery in Lake Worth, Fla., on Tuesday, September 8, 2015. There was an informal Celebration of his Life at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, September 7, 2015, at Terra Marine Park, 502 24th St. Ocean.
Memorials may be sent to the Monroe County EMS service in Florida. If given the opportunity, please donate blood.

LAMBERTVILLE — Edward William Rudd, age 81, of Lambertville, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, August 28, 2015, at his home.
He was born on May 11, 1934, in Toledo, Ohio, to Edward and Lucille (Wilkins) Rudd.
On June 21, 1953, he was united in marriage to Shirley Jean Jaques in Angola, Indiana. She preceded him in death on July 18, 2000.
Ed was employed with Dana Corporation in Toledo, Ohio as a machine operator for 30 years and four months before retiring in 1989. He was very active in his community, including coaching 3B Little League in Bedford in the 1960s and serving as President of the Bedford Band Boosters from 1978-1988.
Ed was the recipient of the Michigan Minuteman Award from Bedford Township for his work and dedication in his volunteering efforts and was also honored as a Hall of Fame inductee at Bedford High School in 2006. He enjoyed attending many of his grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s school events as often as he could and in earlier years, he enjoyed deer hunting and golfing.
Surviving are three sons, Don Rudd of Temperance, Dave (Barb) Rudd of Whiteford, and Chuck (Cindy McRury) Rudd of Toledo, Ohio; 3 daughters, Pat (Larry) Messenger of Temperance, Robin (Steve) Shadix of Montpelier, Ohio, and Kelly (Al) Miller of Charleston, S.C.; 14 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and a special friend, Lois Dix of Lambertville. In addition to his beloved wife, Shirley, he was preceded in death by his parents; one brother Richard Rudd; 2 half-sisters; and his grandson, Greg Messenger.
Funeral services for Ed were on Thursday, September 3, 2015, at 11 a.m. at the Anderson-Rudd Funeral Home, Blissfield with the Rev. Tom Zimmerman officiating. Burial followed in Whiteford Union Cemetery, Whiteford Twp. Visitation was on Wednesday, September 2, 2015, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Condolences may be given to Ed’s family online at www.andersonfuneralservices.com. Memorial contributions may be given to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Envelopes are available at the Anderson-Rudd Funeral Home, Blissfield.

DEERFIELD — Mary Ann Cousino, age 86, of Deerfield, died Tuesday, August 25, 2015, at ProMedica Bixby Hospital, Adrian with her family by her side.
She was born August 17,1929, in Toledo, Ohio to Anthony and Anna (Lucas) Kucera.
On February 19, 1955, she married LaVern Cousino in Toledo, Ohio and he preceded her in death on May 7, 1985. Mary Ann devoted her life to being a wife and mother, raising 4 children and becoming “nana” to 9 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. She loved to bake and was well known for her delicious pastries.
Mary Ann was a member of Light of Christ Catholic Parish (St. Alphonsus Catholic Church) in Deerfield and a member of the Alter Rosary Society. She always looked forward to spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Mary Ann is survived by two sons, Ronald Cousino and Gary (Dawn) Cousino of Deerfield; two daughters, Phyllis Fielder of Deerfield and Cathy (Mike) Gilpin of Tecumseh; a brother, Joseph (Jeri) Kucera of Oregon, Ohio; a sister, Millie Dusseau of Deerfield.; and nine grandchildren, Ryan (Monica) Cousino, Renea (Josh) Crots, Jacob, Kelsey and Taylor Cousino, Jason Fielder, Jeremy (Julie) Fielder, Jonathan Gilpin and Kristen Gilpin; and nine great grandchildren, Isaac, Emily, Audrey, Oliver, Hunter, Tanner, Colton, Bowen and Bronson. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and a nephew Joseph Kucera Jr.
A Funeral liturgy was given on Saturday, August 29, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at the Light of Christ Catholic Parish (St. Alphonsus Catholic Church) in Deerfield with Fr. Jeffrey Poll as celebrant.
Burial followed in St. Alphonsus Catholic Cemetery, Deerfield. Visitation took place Friday, August 28, 2015, from 2-8 p.m. at the Anderson-Rudd Funeral Home, Blissfield with a Prayer Vigil at 7 p.m. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.andersonfuneralservices.com. Memorial contributions may be made to the Light of Christ Catholic Parish, Deerfield or Deerfield Fireman’s Association. Envelopes are available at the Anderson-Rudd Funeral Home, Blissfield.

Joni M. Goodrow, age 53 years of Hudson, passed away Saturday, August 29, 2015, at U of M Hospital in Ann Arbor. She was born on January 30, 1962 in Adrian, the daughter of Donald M. and Rose J. (Lievens) Harpst.
Joni graduated from Adrian High School in 1980 and got her teaching degree from Siena Heights University.
She married Rodger A. Goodrow on April 27, 1985, at St. Joseph Church in Adrian. He survives.
Joni was an elementary school teacher for St. Joseph Academy. She enjoyed gardening, garage sales, cooking, being with her grandchildren and was very passionate about God’s Word.
Joni was a member of Open Door Bible Church.
Surviving besides her husband, Rodger, are two sons, Nicholas (Kim) Goodrow of Hudson, Benjamin (Allie) Goodrow of Schoolcraft , two granddaughters, Rosie and Ella, her mother, Rose Harpst of Adrian, four brothers and sisters, Janyce Rodgers of Adrian, Mark (Cheryl) Harpst of New Port News, Va., Matthew (Pam) Harpst of Blissfield and Julie Roehl of Princeton, KS. She was preceded in death by a grandson, London Kol Goodrow, her father and brother in infancy, Kirk Lewis Harpst.
Funeral Services for Joni were held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, September 2, 2015, at the Open Door Bible Church in Hudson with Pastor Charlton Connet officiating.
Interment followed at Maple Grove Cemetery in Hudson. Visitation was Tuesday, September 1, 2015 from 2-4 p.m. at the Brown-Van Hemert Funeral Home in Hudson. Memorials are suggested to Open Door Bible Church. Envelopes are available at the funeral home.
View this obituary and send condolences to the family at: www.brownvanhemert.com.