Obituaries

World War II hero, Albert Thomas Pierce, 96, of Hartford went home to be with the Lord on Sept. 17, 2020, at his home surrounded by his loving family. Albert earned several medals serving in the 87th Infantry Division during WWII, including a Purple Heart, 3 Bronze Stars, and several other medals. Among his many distinctions he fought in the Battle of the Bulge, bravely crossed the Rhine River, was a medic in Germany, and received multiple commendations for his dedication and bravery....

Helen L. Norden, 97, of Hartford passed away Aug. 25, 2020, at the home of her daughter and son-in-law where she had resided for several years. Helen remained active, but at a slower pace, and “in charge” until just a few days before her death. A private graveside service will be held for immediate family at Maple Hill Cemetery with Pastor Stephanie Norton officiating. Helen was born, raised, and resided in the Hartford area her entire life; she was a proud graduate of...

Jesus Delarosa III, 17, of Hartford passed away suddenly Friday, Aug. 21, 2020. Jesus was born Dec. 8, 2002, in Hidalgo County, Texas, the son of Jesus Delarosa and Sara Aguilera. He was to be a senior at Hartford High School this fall, and played soccer, basketball and wrestling. Jesus is survived by his parents: Sergio Jesus Cantu and Sara Delarosa; two sisters: Cielo Delarosa and Jasmin Delarosa; a brother, Diego Delarosa; paternal grandparents: Jesus and Esperanza Delarosa; maternal...

Russell Anthony Brunais was born Oct. 23, 1956, the son of Frank and Lucille (Scott) Brunais. Russell passed away at the age of 63, Sunday, Aug. 16, 2020, at Hanson Hospice Center, Lincoln Township. Russell graduated from Hartford High School. He served his country proudly in the U.S. Navy. He was united in marriage to Sandra Meyer and was formerly employed at K.O. Products Inc. As to his wishes, cremation has taken place. A time of sharing memories of Russell will take place from...

Evelyn Locena Arrans, 95, was born Oct. 14, 1924, and passed away Aug. 16, 2020, at her home in Paw Paw. Evelyn was the daughter of Guy and Hazel (Crankshaw) Smith, who preceded her in death. In January of 1941, Evelyn was united in marriage to Gilbert LeRoy Arrans who also preceded her in death along with a daughter, Locena Leone Harris; a brother, Fredrick Smith and three sisters; Elwanda Curtis, Elvira Channels and Zeta Smith. Evelyn is survived by children: Elena (Bill) Krause,...

Christopher Keech of St. Joseph played his final encore and passed away Aug. 10, 2020. A lifetime resident of Southwestern Michigan, Chris entertained us all with his talent as a musician and performer. His talent for music led him to teach, conduct, and share his talent both locally and around the world. A Hartford High School graduate of 1983, Chris went on to serve in the U.S. Air Force, where he was chosen to perform in the prestigious ensemble “Tops in Blue”, traveling...

William Wayne Bennett, 42, of Battle Creek passed away suddenly on Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2020, at home. William was born Dec. 21, 1977, in St. Joseph, the son of Vern and Irene (Rhinehart) Bennett. William is survived by a daughter, Carri (Jacob) Pelfry of Paintsville, Ky.; two sons, William Bennett and John Bennett, both of Tomahawk, Ky.; a grandson, Gunner Pelfry; his mother, Irene (David) Morris of Hagerhill, Ky.; his father, Vern (Debra) Bennett of Battle Creek; a brother, Donald...

James Keech, 87, of Keeler, Mich., peacefully made his final curtain call Aug. 4, 2020. A lifelong resident of the area, his travels circled the earth several times. A Hartford High School graduate of 1951, James was named a Class C All-State football player. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran who served in the Korean War. He received bachelor and master degrees from Western Michigan University, and worked at Watervliet High School as a social studies and drama teacher for 37 years. During...

Carol Sue King, 79, passed away Monday, Aug. 3, 2020, at River Ridge Retirement Village in South Haven. Carol was born March 5, 1941 in Watervliet. She is the daughter of Carl and Florence (Shingledecker) McNees. Carol was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. On May 12, 1962, Carol was united in marriage with Lucius King. She had two children: Clinton and Cindy, and two grandchildren, Megan and Emily. She retired from 5th Third Bank after 25 years of...

Raymond Lee Yates, 71, of Niles passed away Monday, Aug. 3, 2020, at Ascension Borgess Hospital, Kalamazoo. Raymond was born Dec. 1, 1948, in Watervliet, the son of Clarence and Nellie (Skaggs) Yates, both of whom precede him in passing. Also preceding him in passing are two brothers: Lloyd Francis Yates and Clarence Yates; and four sisters: Betty Woods, Sylvia Bond, Nancy Yates and Florence Berends. Raymond served his country honorably in the U. S. Army during the Vietnam War. During...