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Obituaries

These obituaries are listed in order from newest to oldest.  If you want to look for a specific obituary, just type the last name in the search bar (at the top of this article).  You can click here to sign up to receive obituaries by e-mail.

Mercedes Leah Snyder

Born Into Life: 1921                                                                                                                   Entered into Eternity: 2021

Mercedes Leah Snyder was born on December 31, 1921 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She was the fourth child of twelve born to the union of Charles Henry Baker and Ruby A. Baker.  Mercedes attended Ann Arbor Public Schools, graduating from Ann Arbor High School.  She was united in marriage to Charles Snyder on January 10, 1942, in Ann Arbor, Michigan. To this union 4 daughters were born.  For many years Mercedes lived in Albion, Michigan. In her later years she and her husband moved to Wild Goose Lake. This is where she resided until her untimely death.

Mercedes had a loving warm spirit about her. She is described by her daughters as being strong, generous, considerate, warm, stubborn, and compassionate. When meeting her you were oftentimes met with a big warm smile. She was known for the love of the color Purple. This regal color was reflective of her personality. She loved her family, but she had a special affection and bond for her granddaughters Donna and Arianne. Her great grandson Kaleb also held a special place in her heart. 

Stanley Jay Parker

Of Manchester, Michigan, formerly of Ann Arbor, age 82, died Wednesday, October 20, 2021 at ProMedica in Ann Arbor. He was born February 6, 1939 in Chelsea, Michigan, the son of Homer Russell and Margery F. (Robards) Parker. Stanley graduated from Dexter High School in1958. He was a life-long farmer. A road is named after his family and his family farm will soon be 200 years old. Stanley attended the St. Paul United Church of Christ in Chelsea. He was on the PLPOA Board; and was a member of the Farm Bureau and the Huron Valley Watershed Council.

Donald Robert Kaiser

Of Dexter, MI, age 79, died peacefully at his home on Saturday, October 16, 2021, after 20 years of health issues. He was born October 7, 1942 in Unadilla, Michigan, the son of Howard L. & Dorothy B. (Zitzelburger) Kaiser.

Don graduated from Dexter High School in 1960. He worked at Ann Arbor Machine Company for 45 years. Don was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, where he was a hospitality minister for many years, and worked on the church festival in many positions. Don was active with his boys in Boy Scouts and as a coach in Little League. He was a member of Chelsea Classic Cruisers, showing his 1955 Ford Victoria.

Norman George Johnston

of Chelsea, Michigan, Age 92, died Tuesday, October 19, 2021 at Chelsea Retirement Community Towsley Village; after a long and valiant battle with vascular dementia. He was born September 23, 1929 in Jackson, Michigan, the son of George Miles & Faye (Corley) Johnston.  Norman graduated from Ann Arbor High School in 1947, and earned an Agricultural Degree from Michigan State University. He served in the United States Army from 1951-1953. Norman was a master level machinist, spending 34 years at the University of Michigan’s Chemistry Department, enabling important research and assisted in educating generations of students. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dexter, and served on several ministries. Upon retirement he continued to use his machinist skills as a hobby producing working model engines and other intricate projects. Norm was loved for his quick wit, ability to fix anything, and devotion to family and friends.

Justin David Williams

of Ann Arbor, Michigan, formerly of Dexter, age 24, died Thursday, October 7, 2021 at his home in Ann Arbor. He was born May 26, 1997 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Kenneth “Dale” Santrock and Brenda Lee (Hall) Williams. He was a member of Dexter High School class of 2015. Justin worked in carpentry, and really enjoyed creating and designing new masterpieces. He also enjoyed longboarding, biking, and disc golf. Justin loved being outside and being with his friends at a bonfire, and loving on his two children who made him a father. He always managed to show his heart of gold through his generous ways.