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Recent Obituaries

Anthony “Tony” Joseph Kotlarek

of Gregory, Michigan, age 68, passed away Monday, May 11, 2026, at his home. He was born February 4, 1958, in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Joseph Gerald and Verna Antionette (Bak) Kotlarek.  Tony graduated from Bishop Borgess High School in Redford. He attended a technical school and worked for GM at the Romulus Engine Plant. Tony enjoyed his Kowasaki motorcycle when he was young, and loved listening to music,  reading, and fishing. He was a great cook and enjoyed making his mother’s recipes. Tony was very outgoing and liked to spend time at home on his porch greeting every neighbor. The members of Ellsworth Lake were his second family. He was the unofficial mayor of Ellsworth Lake and an Honorary Lifetime Board Member of the Ellsworth Lake Association. Tony was loved by so many.
 
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Ronald W. Harris

Ronald W. Harris of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of West Branch, age 89, passed away Sunday, May 10, 2026, at Ashley Court in Brighton. He was born December 12, 1936, in Saginaw, the son of Roland A. and Eulalia (Ensor) Harris.

Ron was a member of the Community of Christ Church in Ann Arbor, where he served as an Elder and Choir Director. He was a music teacher in the Chelsea School District for many years, was a piano tuner, and played taps for the Washtenaw County Honor Guard.

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Patrice Marie “Pat” Rubadeau

Patrice Marie “Pat” Rubadeau (74) of Ann Arbor, Michigan passed away surrounded by family and friends. She was born in Ohio, the beloved daughter of Lillian and Joseph. She is survived by her husband, John; her children, Heather, Alexis, Becky, Nick, and Pace; and her grandchildren, as well as her sister Linda, brother Larry and their families. Her family was the most important thing in her life.

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David Raymond Royer

David Raymond Royer of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Ferndale, age 87, went to be with his Lord and Savior Tuesday, April 28, 2026. He was born September 6, 1938, in Ferndale, Michigan, the son of Denzil J. and Hazel R. (Wolka) Royer.

Dave was a husband and father. He was a General Manager for 40 years at Rosaen Filters, Inc., and then Flow Ezy Filters, Inc. Dave was a member of the Grass Lake Assembly of God where he served as a Bible Study Teacher for 40 years.

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Donna Mae Dault

Donna Mae Dault of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Grass Lake, age 85, passed away Monday, April 20, 2026, at the Chelsea Retirement Community. She was born May 22, 1940, in Stockbridge, Michigan, the daughter of Lyle A. and Jennie M. (Scripter) Walz.

Donna graduated from Chelsea High School in 1958. Donna took care of the accounting for Jim's construction business. She was a member of Waterloo United Methodist Church, volunteered at the Chelsea Fairgrounds, and was active with the VFW Auxiliary. Donna was an avid Michigan sports fan, enjoyed watching pro and college football, and took care of her own yard until recently. She also enjoyed participating in activities at the Chelsea Senior Center, especially line dancing, and playing bingo at the Chelsea Retirement Community. Donna was very social and had a fun personality.

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Beulah "Merle" Machemer

Beulah “Merle” Machemer of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Dexter, age 94, passed away Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at Silver Maples. She was born February 3, 1932, in Melvindale, Michigan, the daughter of Kindred and Carra (Edwards) Deel.

Merle graduated from Melvindale High School in 1950, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from Wayne State University, and a Master’s Degree in Library Science from the University of Michigan. She worked as a children’s librarian for 10 years. Merle was extremely enthusiastic about health and nutrition. She loved reading, gardening, and especially her family.

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Gary Allan Pope

With love and remembrance, we announce the passing of Gary Pope, a devoted son, husband, brother-in-law, father and grandfather, who left this world on 12 April after a long journey with cancer. He was 85.

Born in Negaunee, Michigan, to Agnes (née Latvala) and C. Allan, Gary was raised in Ann Arbor alongside his “favorite” sister, Marcia (Westfall). As a youngster he was active in Boy Scouts, an experience that helped shape his character, foster his love of the outdoors, and instill a deep sense of responsibility. During his high school years, he distinguished himself both on the track and in marching band, proudly playing the trumpet and tuba. Gary joined his father in the house painting business, where their shared work ethic and pride in craftsmanship brought happiness to so many customers. He served our country as part of the Army National Guard. And he was a lifelong member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, appreciative of its pastors over many decades and fellowship of the men’s coffee group.

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