Small Eng ine Repair: Mowers, trimmers, chainsaws All makes Call Brian at Smith Bros (269)217-3247
269 Exteriors: Now Booking for siding, gutters, drywall and decks Licensed/insured Free estimates (269)806-0690
Drywall/Repair Work: Big and small jobs Fully insured 40 years experience Call Tom Teunessen (616)218-2877
Nature’s Outdoor Services is now accepting spring work Yard rolling, lawn care, landscaping, light excavation work etc Call or text (269)615-8800
Rogers Plumbing, Heating & A/C Service, Inc Call the company that’s local & experienced Serving this area since 1966, licensed and insured 269-694-4673, 269-217-5454
Storm Damage/Tree Removal: Competitive pricing, can beat your previous bid Free quotes, fully insured Local, Otsego area (269)726-1310
needed We take down and
call Dave Walker @ (269)365-8310 Wolf Lake Home Sales, LLC
We Buy Houses! Cash for your home, any condition Call Brad Boone (269)207-5691
2017 Mobile Home For Sale: 2B R, 2BA, walk-in shower, updated flooring, lg deck, new roof, gutter covers, carpor t 6446 Queensway in Royal Estates mobile home park (Ravine Rd , Kalamazoo) Call (269)254-8995 for info
Community Page Community Page
SPRING SALE
2026
Presented by Diver and Author, Valerie Van Heest We
Presented by Diver and Author, Valerie Van Heest
Program is FREE (donations gladly accepted) Refreshments after the program!
Drop-In Art Workshops
Taught by Design Street Instruc tors Saturdays from 2-4pm No reser vation needed, all $38/person Take home workshop version available after workshop date!
May 2 - In the Garden with Van Gogh Sunflower collage with Mixed Media (10-adult)
May 9 - "You & Me" Caricature Portraits Bring a friend! (12-adult)
May 16 - "Junk Journaling" Styles and techniques (12-adult)
May 23 - Monet's Garden Insect Portraiture Under the Lily Pad (16-adult)
Plainwell
Even when the sun goes down, the opportunity to entertain outdoors is still possible Transforming a backyard into an evening oasis does not necessarily require major renovations, but it should involve adjusting the atmosphere to facilitate comfor t and visibility The following tips can help hosts optimize outdoor spaces for nighttime events
Layered lighting
Lighting is the main priority when hosting at night Lighting establishes ambiance and creates safety in the space Hosts should avoid floodlights which can be too harsh and create a clinical feeling Instead, melding different lighting options together can set the scene String lights provide a warm,
Create focal points
even glow that can outline the perimeter and “ceiling” of an outdoor room Low-voltage LEDs or solar lights can make walkways more visible and call attention to changes in elevation Accent lighting, such as small spotlights uplighting trees or architectural features, will create depth and keep the yard from feeling like an abyss beyond the patio or deck
conversation flowing An outdoor bar also is a great place for people to gather, whether it’s stocked with alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks Mark off an area where people can mingle and dance Set up an outdoor speaker in this area
Individuals will gather around various focal points in the yard These established zones will encourage conversation and other activities A fire pit is a natural magnet for outdoor events Arrange seating around the fire pit to keep
Outdoor comfort
Contending with bugs and weather is a natural side effect of spending time outdoors, par ticularly in the evening Citronella candles can keep mosquitoes and gnats at bay A simple electric floor fan also can be effective against mosquitoes, which are weak fliers that can’t fly against the breeze A fire pit, propane patio heater and a basket of blankets can help tame the chills if the temperature drops Keeping pop-up canopies at the ready will help if rain starts to fall
Accessibility to food and drink
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Justin A. HUGHES
AGE 33 - PLAINWELL, MI
Justin A Hughes passed away unexpectedly on April 25, 2026 He was born July 30, 1992, in Kalamazoo to Martin and Virginia (Landmesser) Hughes He graduated from Plainwell Schools in 2011, where he enjoyed wrestling At the time of his passing, he was working for Darling Ingredients as a truck driver Gaining his CDL license was an accomplishment Justin worked very hard towards and was very proud of He also worked with several local tree removal and asphalt companies, always giving 100% effort Justin was a devoted dad to his daughter, Evie, and a loving partner to his girlfriend, Sierra He worked hard and took pride in always giving his best in everything he did He had a playful and goofy side, at any gathering you could find Justin playing, wrestling, or playfully teasing one of the kids Everyone was drawn to his energetic and loving spirit Justin had a way of bringing joy and laughter to the people around him He was quickwitted, funny, and loved making others laugh He always showed up for family and friends when it mattered most He was known for always being his full authentic self and showing loyalty to those he loved In his free time, he enjoyed riding his motorcycle with his dad and friends, listening to music and podcasts, playing pickleball, disc golfing, and gaming He loved cooking and trying new foods He also loved and cherished his dog Fisher “Porky,” who has been a loyal companion to him for over 10 years More than anything, Justin loved spending his downtime at home with his family He is survived by his parents; his girlfriend, Sierra Snook, and their daughter, Evie; his sisters, Lindsey (Brad) Warner and Merry (Troy) Nelson; and his nieces and nephews: Landon, Raiden Nolan David Scarlet Elliott Jude Hudson, Jackson, Robert, and Swade He is also survived by his grandparents, Donna and Ron Tharge and Jim and Cynthia Hughes; Sierra’s brother, Tanner (Addison) Dee; many aunts, uncles, and cousins; and his beloved dog, Fisher Friends visited with Justin’s family from 6–8 PM on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at Winkel Funeral Home in Otsego Cremation followed, and a memorial celebration of Justin’s life will be held on Saturday, May 2nd from 2-5 pm at Northside Park in Otsego, Michigan Contributions in memory of Justin may be directed to a fund for his daughter, Evie Forever loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten
Arrangements by Winkel Funeral Home - Otsego
Messages of condolence may be posted at www WinkelFuneralHome com
When you find yourself facing the loss of a loved one we can assist in making the details you face a little e a s i e r To p l a c e yo u r o b i t u a r y announcement on our community pages, simply ask the funeral home to send the details to the Community Shoppers Guide or call/email us yourself Obituar ies are approximately $75 and are included in our online edition.
Community
Richard Lawrence
“Dick” LARSON AGE 86 - KALAMAZOO MI
Richard Lawrence “Dick” Larson, 86, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, went to be with the Lord on Monday, April 27, 2026, surrounded by his family Dick was born on July 5, 1939, in Plainwell, Michigan, to Marion and Dorothy Larson He graduated from Otsego High School in 1957 and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in education from Albion College followed by a master’s degree in chemistry from Western Michigan University He began his career teaching and coaching at Detroit Country Day School and Earlham College In the midst of a successful coaching career, Dick surrendered his life fully to Jesus and entered full‐time ministry Over the next 50 years, he served faithfully in a variety of roles, including Dean of Students at Grand Rapids School of Bible and Music, pastor of youth ministries in Dayton, Ohio, and headmaster of a Christian school in West Palm Beach, Florida He concluded his church ministry as senior pastor of Alamo Congregational Church in Alamo, Michigan Dick then served as Chaplain of the Kalamazoo County Jail with Forgotten Man Ministries for 15 years before retiring In 1960, Dick married the love of his life, Mary Kay Sponable Together they shared a deeply devoted, Christ‐centered marriage and served side by side in ministry, sharing the gospel and leading many to faith Dick had a true servant’s heart, generously giving his time, resources, and possessions to anyone in need He was an avid outdoorsman who especially loved time spent in a tree stand or on the water He passed on his love of the outdoors to his children and grandchildren One of his favorite places throughout his life was Gun Lake, where he created countless memories with family His love for his family was evident in the way he invested in their lives and faithfully covered them in prayer Dick is survived by Mary Kay and their four children: Wendi (Roger) Walcott, Mark (Leigh) Larson, Michael (Heather) Larson, and Matthew (Kristine) Larson He is also survived by his grandchildren Christopher (Morgan) Isch, Andrew (Sara) Larson, Nathan (Sarah) Larson, Jonathon (Jessica) Isch, Hannah (Kenny) Ledbetter, Megan (Aaron) Knupp, Katheryn (Chase) Peyton, Devon (Deven) McCarn, and Ava Larson and twelve great‐grandchildren He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Lynn Larson; and his parents‐in‐law, Robert and Avis Sponable A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church of Otsego, Michigan, on Saturday, May 9, at 11:00 a m , with Rev Andrew Larson officiating Those wishing to honor Dick may make a donation in his memory to the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission (www kzoogospel org) in lieu of flowers
COMMUNITY AUCTION
Deborah D. LAGROW KALAMAZOO, MI
Deborah LaGrow passed away at home, surrounded by her loving family Born on November 22, 1951, in Coloma, Michigan, she was the daughter of Edward and Janice Vollrath Deb grew up in Coloma, Michigan, one of four children where she learned her strong work ethic and love of cooking from her father affectionately known as “Chicken Ed,” at the family’s restaurant, Ed’s Café She graduated from Coloma High School and was crowned Miss Coloma during her senior year On August 16, 1969, Deb married the love of her life, Robert O LaGrow Together they shared over 56 years of marriage, building a life filled with love, laughter, and deep devotion to their family She was most proud of the close-knit family they created, raising three children, welcoming six grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and embracing many “bonus” children and grandchildren along the way Alongside her husband Bob, she co-owned and operated Martin Machine Shop for many years while raising their young family After selling the business, Deb went on to earn her degree from Davenport University and built a meaningful career, working with Visiting Nurse Association, serving as a Practice Manager at Bronson, and retiring as an Operations Manager from Spectrum Health Deb had a deep love for travel and adventure, especially with Bob Together they were always planning their next journey, fondly known as “Bob & Deb’s Excellent Adventures ” Whether exploring new places or walking the shoreline in search of sea glass, she found joy in every moment She passed that spirit on to her children and grandchildren, often taking the grandkids on “Secret Missions” and large family vacations, creating memories that will be treasured forever She was always there for her kids and grandchildren, cheering them on at every sporting event, school function, band or choir concert, graduation, and every important milestone in between Deb was a remarkable woman full of strong faith, fierce strength and independence and an extraordinary love for her family She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, and the very best cheerleader for those she loved Affectionately known as “Glamma,” she carried herself with grace and style always looking beautiful and never arriving empty-handed often with a bag of her delicious cookies to share Her legacy lives on in the family she built and the countless memories she created She was preceded in death by her beloved son Jason LaGrow; her brother, Mark Vollrath; and her parents, Edward and Janice Vollrath Deb is survived by her loving husband, Bob; her son Justin (Cari) LaGrow; and her daughter Emilie LaGrow (Wayne Bush); her six grandchildren: Jacob (Alexis) LaGrow, Amanda LaGrow, Grace Sarratore, Justin LaGrow II, Isabella Sarratore, and Jarrett LaGrow; her three great-grandchildren, Colton Klomp, Josie LaGrow, and Jase LaGrow; her bonus grandchildren, Abigail Bush and Anna Cannadu; her sisters, Tammy Vollrath and Randee (Rich) Kurth; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins At Deb’s request, no formal funeral services will be held Instead, her family will honor her life with a celebration at the Clubhouse at Kline’s Resort in Three Rivers on Saturday, May 16th, 2026, from 1-4 In true Deb fashion, she hoped this gathering would be filled with food, laughter, love, and storytelling-where family and friends can share their best “Mom,” “Grandma,” and “Deb” stories while celebrating a life so well lived Contributions in memory of Deb may be directed to a scholarship fund for her grandchildren Arrangements by Winkel Funeral Home - Otsego
Messages of condolence may be posted at www WinkelFuneralHome com
Consuelo "Connie" Vasquez, 94, passed away quietly at her home in Mexico on February 1, 2026 She was born to Antonio and Feliciana Lara on May 11 1931 in Puruandiro, Michoacan, Mexico From humble beginnings and adversity, Connie was able to build a successful life She married her husband, Carlos in 1956 She immigrated to the United States soon after She learned English by watching "I Love Lucy" among other shows Connie was an accomplished seamstress and crafter She was able to make anything she put her mind to She could reupholster furniture, make crafts with little instruction and make clothing that would give a professional tailor a run for their money She was a stay-at-home mother until her children were able to get along on their own She was employed in the Brass Division at Parker for 15 years, where she made many lasting friendships After retiring from Parker, Connie spent time traveling between Plainwell and Mexico where she would spend time with friends and family In Mexico she was active in her seniors group where she served as queen and on the court various times When she wasn't working, Connie was a devoted wife and mother, making sure that everyone around her was well fed and taken care of She was well known for her famous homemade flour tortillas, rice and refried beans She was a great singer and you would often hear her singing Mexican songs by her favorite artists Connie was preceded in death by her husband Carlos in 1984; her parents, Antonio and Feliciana, stepmother, Arcadia, along with sisters Guadalupe, Ester, Guadalupe and Marta She is survived by her brothers, Ignacio Lara (Crispina) and Ricardo Lara (Consuelo) and sister Elena She is also survived by her children Carlos, Tony, Olga (Ralph Buck), Dolores Brinker (Cameron), and Fred (Sarah Haselschwardt); grandchildren Malcolm Brinker (Kaley Wennerholm), Spencer Vasquez (Hannah), Sumner Brinker (Lauren), Casey Buck (Haleigh Vickers), Alex Vasquez (Emily Dodge), Maya Buck (Ryan Schaffer) and Maddie Vasquez, great grandchildren Gabriella Ani Malcolm Asher Callahan and a new great grandbaby on the way She is also survived by many nieces and nephews with special acknowledgment to Maria Dolores Lara Gomez who spent much time with Connie as a dutiful niece, companion and caretaker when she was in Mexico It was Connie's wish to be cremated and buried next to her husband Carlos A burial service of ashes will be held at Hillside Cemetery in Plainwell on Monday, May 11, 2026 at 11:00am
Dwight WILLIAMS AGE 69 - LEESBURG FL (formerly of Plainwell and Martin)
Dwight Williams went to heaven peacefully on April 6, 2026, in Lake Panasoffkee, Florida Born on February 17, 1957, in Plainwell, Michigan, Dwight was the son of late Alfred and Eunice (Bishop) Williams Growing up in Martin, Dwight nurtured roots that he carried with him even after relocating to Florida nearly a decade ago Dwight spent a remarkable 41-year career in sales with EgeminDematic, where his commitment and expertise earned him the respect and admiration of both colleagues and clients Work was a central part of Dwight’s life reflecting his strong work ethic and passion for what he did In his free time, Dwight enjoyed working around his house and cars, traveling and spending time outdoors, following his alma mater, Western Michigan University, and he loved sporting events, especially baseball Above all, Dwight treasured moments with his children and grandchildren, who brought him immense happiness and pride Dwight is survived by his children: Jordan (Jeane) Williams, Brooke (fiancé John Moore) Williams, and Stacey Williams; grandchildren Kylie, Easton, Jayden, and Aaliyah; his siblings, Charlene (Marv) DeMann, Lois Smith, Karen (Dave) Misner, and Audrey (Pete) Mulder, along with many nieces and nephews He was preceded in death by his parents A celebration of Dwight’s life will be held from 1-4pm, Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the home of his sister Karen and Dave Misner, 1623 3rd Street, Martin, Michigan Contributions in memory of Dwight may be directed to Wreaths Across America at: www wreathsacrossamerica
Arrangements by Winkel Funeral Home -
Consuelo "Connie" VASQUEZ
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Why is it? A man wakes up after sleeping on an adver tised mattress, brushes his teeth with adver tised toothpaste, shaves with adver tised razor, puts on adver tised clothes, drinks adver tised coffee and eats advertised cereal, drives to work in an adver tised car and then refuses to adver tise believing that it doesn’t pay Later if his business is poor, he advertises it for sale Why is it?
There are some recurring theological questions that I am asked often in my role as a pastor But can you guess the one I get asked the most? And no, it’s not, why are your sermons so long? It’s, “how can I know God’s will for my life?” So many of us want to know the next right thing to do, who should I marry, what career should I choose, what fork in the road should I take? Sometimes we get impatient with waiting on God and try to help His will along We do the “blind bible verse lottery” thing where we close our eyes, open our bible and point to a verse to discern God’s will But what if we point to a genealogy or a verse about ancient livestock? Not helpful! Some of us have tried the “hyper specific test ” We say something like, “God, if you want me to say yes to this job offer, allow me to see a purple car and hear three dogs bark and watch the Detroit Tigers win 10‐0 today ” The bible, thankfully, provides a better way to discern God’s will for our lives
The Apostle Paul gave us a helpful guide for discerning God’s will Here it is in one of the most meaningful passages ever written Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God this is your true and proper worship 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing ofyour mind Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is his good, pleasing and perfect will ” Paul is asserting that the best way to know God’s will for our lives is to give our lives to the God who gave His life in love for us When we “offer” ourselves to God as a “living sacrifice,” we will be “transformed” by God’s mercy and grace The Greek word for transformed is “metamorphoō, ” from which we get the word “metamorphosis ” God wants to transform us from caterpillar conformity to “the pattern of this world” to butterfly freedom “by the renewing of our minds ” In other words, God wants to transform us so that we think like Christ thinks, love like Christ loves, and live like Christ lives And when that transformation happens, “THEN you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is‐ His good, pleasing and perfect will for you ” God’s will for your life is “good” and “perfect,” way better than your plan for your life I guarantee it Let God write the script for your life You’ll be so glad you did!
See you Sunday at 10:40! Pastor Lenny Luchetti
COME WORSHIP JESUS
Satur day, October 17, 2026 9:00am-3:00pm Friendship Wesleyan Church 1285 102nd Ave , Plainwell MI Request an application: Text (269) 998-5667 Email cabinquilter93@yahoo
and much, much more Located at 8300 Ravine Rd , Kalamazoo
24th Annual Neighborhood Sale: May 8-9, 8am-3pm, M-89 to 13th St , follow signs Rain/shine VF W Aux #3030 Fundraiser!
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local service available for appliance repair Washer/Dryer, Dishwasher, Refrigerator, Stove/Oven and all major appliances Cer tified, Insured techs Satisfaction guaranteed Call to schedule your appointment now! 1-877-489-0116
Your Vehicle to Charity! Suppor t veterans, breast cancer prog rams, more! You choose the charity! May qualify for tax donation All Conditions - Running or not! Free pickup 1-877-691-4117
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Tree Removal, Trimming & stump g rinding Fully insured Over 30 years experience in tree work, very reliable and reasonable Free estimates Also, firewood for sale! RC Tree Service, owned and operated by Carl Sparks (269)377-0284 or (269)568-7231 Randy www rctreeservice com
Improvement
Metal Roofing Regular And shingle style, Half off special colors! Lifetime hail asphalt shingles Vinyl siding Licensed and insured builders for 40 years Amish crew 517-575-3695
Jeffrey B. Hoy t, Builder, (269)760-0035 All your building needs, no job too big or small Licensed/insured Senior discount Monty’s Tree Service: Licensed/insured Free estimates (269)204-8207
Licensed Builder Farmer Construction Free estimates, call 269-420-9748
Auctions
Onstott Estate Online Auction features riding mowers, tools, trailers, furniture, antiques, household items, fishing gear and more! Bid SherwoodAuctionServiceLLC com Bid now! Call Penni today for auction details, 1-800-835-0495 Ext 2
May Online Consignment Auction: Bid on I HCase 885XL tractor, 2015 Chevy 1500, lawn/garden equipment, rare coins, antiques, adver tising, vintage collectibles, quality shop tools Visit NarhiAuctions com today Over 680 lots! Questions? 810-266-6474
Lake Doster Storage Is Auctioning the contents of Unit #62 (owner unverified) on 5/2/26 and Unit #57 (Kellerman) on 5/9/26 Each auction will be held at 1:00pm with the contents of each unit being visible from the door one hour before auction Winning cash bidder must completely remove all contents immediately Renter does have the option of paying total rent & fees prior to the auction and the auction may be cancelled without notice to the public Call 269-685-3327 for information
Miscellaneous
Readers: This publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of the goods or services advertised Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made in any advertisements, and to use good judgment and reasonable care, particularly when dealing with persons unknown to you who ask for money in advance of delivery of the goods or services advertised
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Vehicles For Sale
Donate Your Vehicle to Charity! Suppor t veterans, breast cancer prog rams, more! You choose the charity! Receive maximum value tax write-off All Conditions - Running or not! Free pickup 1-877-318-1290 2016 Ford F150 4x4, black, 240k miles, 5 0 engine $8500 (269)655-5032
Concrete Flatwork: For all your concrete flatwork needs! Pole barn, floors, driveways, driveway replacement, sidewalks, patios Bobcat services available (269)509-2153
Lawn Care Service: Budget-friendly and reliable! (269)303-0796
Standing Timber Wanted: Walnut, Oak, Maple Highest prices paid Payment in advance 269-998-1839
Powerwashing, Replacement Windows, doors, and roofing Call Farmer Construction Local Builder Check us out on Facebook 269-420-9748
& Brush Clearing, yard clean-up Fallen tree and stump removal, tree cutting Reliable and insured Call Scott (269)929-3149
Services Scott Keyzer Roofing: Call Scott for all your roofing, gutter, screen installation and repair needs Free estimates (269)929-3149
R&B Services Accepting new lawncare customers Mowing pruning spring and storm cleanups Free estimates 269-720-8384
Budget Appliance Service Prompt, Professional and Affordable Service. Call us today for your appliance repair needs (269)685-8902. Ted LaFountain, Owner.
Mar tin Transmission- Not just transmissions We offer full service auto repair Locally owned & operated for over 20 years Free quotes 565 Lincoln Rd (M-89), Otsego (269)694-5500
Swegles Handyman Service: Roofing, plumbing, decks, all home repairs Insured, quality work 269-243-0468
Dan's Tree Service: Free estimates Senior discount Fully insured (269)664–5455 or Matt (269)569-1031 www danstreeinc com Veteran-owned
Quality Built Pole Buildings Built year round! All sizes, options available! Financing Available! C L Kruithoff Building Company, Lic /Insured Call (269)217-3850 www pole-barns com
Monty’s Tree Service: Licensed/insured Free estimates (269)204-8207
