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.
11th Annual Gus Macker Tournament Otsego, MI AUGUST 22-23
Registration is open: www macker com Gus Macker is sponsored by TOPTogether Otsego Prospers
Services
Standing Timber Wanted: Walnut, Oak, Maple Highest prices paid Payment in advance 269-998-1839
269 Exteriors: Now Booking for siding, gutters, drywall and decks Licensed/insured Free estimates (269)806-0690
Monty’s Tree Service: Licensed/insured Free estimates (269)204-8207
Dan's Tree Service: Free estimates Senior discount Fully insured (269)664–5455 or Matt (269)569-1031 www danstreeinc com Veteran-owned
Powerwashing, Replacement Windows, doors, and roofing Call Farmer Construction Local Builder Check us out on Facebook 269-420-9748
Budget Appliance Service Prompt, Professional and Affordable Service. Call us today for your appliance repair needs (269)685-8902 Ted LaFountain, Owner
Scott Keyzer Roofing: Call Scott for all your roofing, gutter, screen installation and repair needs Free estimates (269)929-3149
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
Tree & Brush Clearing, yard clean-up Fallen tree and stump removal, tree cutting Reliable and insured Call Scott (269)929-3149
paint match!
Auctions
Christy Firearm Estate Auction Bidding open @JohnPeckAuctions com Fine & collector firearms, ammunition, accessories Krieghoff, Winchester, Benelli, Colt, Ruger, Reming ton Shipping available, Offices Charlotte & Gladwin Selling guns? Call John Peck 989-345-4866
July Online Consignment Auction: Featuring Kenwor th semi, Grand Cherokee, Club Car Tur f 2 electric golf car t, tractor, trailers, hand/ power tools, generators, crossbows, more! NarhiAuctions com View updates, bid today 810-266-6474
Jones Online Estate Auction Featuring guns, tools, antiques, collectibles, compressor, generator, household items, equipment, tires, tree climbing gear, much more! Questions? Call 1-800-835-0495-X2 Bid at SherwoodAuctionServiceLLC com for this and other auctions
Items For Sale
Davals Used Furniture & Antiques 6 buildings with 15,000 Sq Ft of quality furniture, antiques and collectibles Save time and money Shop Davals for the best selection, best quality, best price You have to see it to believe it We are truly a destination place and wor th the drive We buy estates Layaway terms available Visa/Mastercard/Discover accepted 2 miles west of Hastings at 2084 W M-43 Hwy near Bob’s Gun & Tackle Hours: Sun 12-5pm; Mon -Fri 10am-6pm; Sat 9am-5pm (269)948-2463
For Sale: Master Tow 2-Wheel Dolly, wheel covers, tie down straps, spare tire $500 (269)382-2067
Driving Routes for the Community Shoppers Guide. $200-$250/mo. Delivery done between 6am Friday and noon Saturday Must have reliable vehicle It takes two people to deliver, one driving and one hang ing papers Must have working phone Stop in to apply (117 N Farmer St , Otsego) or online at communityshoppersguide net, click on employment tab
(269)685-8400 Applications may be picked up at: 720 Benhoy Avenue, Apt D Plainwell, MI 49080 M-F 8am-5pm
Semiquincentennial
Consumer Cellular - same reliable nationwide coverage as large carriers No long-term contract or hidden fees, free activation All plans unlimited talk & text starting at just $20/mo 877-751-0866
Become a published author We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920 Consultation, production, promotion & distribution Free author s guide 877-729-4998 or dorranceinfo com/ads No more cleaning gutters Guaranteed! LeafFilter backed by no-clog guarantee & lifetime warranty Call 1-833-6101936 to schedule FREE inspection/estimate Get 15% off your entire order Military &
Blueberry Week • July 6-11
Blueberry
All
All
Blueberry Festival • July 11th
Otsego Location Opening Friday, June 26th! Come
Built
at - 24x40x10 - $18,300 30x40x10 -$20,400 Erected on your site Call for price not shown on any size building or go to www builtritepolebuildingsmi com Or call 989-259-2015 or 989-600-1010 or 989-324-0035
Firewood Facecord 4x8x16 -$70 Full cord 4x8x48 -$210 Delivery extra Smaller quantities available Call for info 269-355-4916 Good wood!
Lawn & Garden
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 Monty’s
Huge Sale! Thurs-Sun, July 2-5, 8am-5pm 1391 Hill Rd Otsego 5 Antique tractors, 1982 motor home-1 owner, 30' open trailer-heavy duty Workshop items, tools, hardware, snowblower, arc welder, too many to list! Must see! Household items, women's clothing, furniture, so much more!
Yard Sale! Thursday July 2 - Monday July 6
45 haywagons loads, antiques to junk Hundreds of boxlots, kitchen stuff, bed sets, dressers, table and chair sets, couches and chairs, 200 plus dolls, a lot of antique dishes, battery push mower, several metal shelves, tools 32 x64 pole barn, 2 floors and 40 foot addition, full of furniture from several estates Located m40 south of Allegan or nor th of Gobles to 108th Ave (Pullman Rd ) West to 6th house on the right 3333 108th Ave 8am-6pm Daily Worth the Drive!
Garage Sale - June 26 and 27, 9am-5pm 1037 110th Ave Plainwell, M I 49080
Women’s clothes, size sm to XL Lots of miscellaneous Full size mattress and box spring with frame $100 Tanning bed like new $3000 or best offer, table, 4 chairs and bench $40 Can call (269)509-2103
Nature’s Outdoor Services is now accepting clients Yard rolling, lawn care, landscaping, light excavation work etc Call or text (269)615-8800
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
Drywall/Repair Work: Big and small jobs
Damber Tree and Yard Service LLC: Fully insured, full tree removal, gravel driveway work, weekly mowing, retaining walls (269)251-5602.
Fully insured 40 years experience Call Tom Teunessen (616)218-2877
Concrete Flatwork: For all your concrete flatwork needs! Pole barn, floors, driveways, driveway replacement, sidewalks, patios Bobcat services available (269)509-2153
or 269-377-8691 Email craft show@yahoo.com
Heaven Scent Cleaning, a Christian, family-owned business offers our customers a refreshed home for a renewed spirit! Basic/deep cleans, hoarding/junk removal and interior demolition Call today for a free estimate: Kayla (269)332-8654 or Cody (269)832-5456
Monty’s Tree Service: Licensed/insured Free estimates (269)204-8207
D&J Power Washer Cleaning Services: Residential homes, driveways, sidewalks Call (517)746-9524 or (517)462-0106
Quality Clock Repair. House calls on Grandfather clocks, free pickup & delivery of all others Call Andrew Dirkse (616)990-8885
Swegles Handyman Service: All aspects of home improvment Small jobs up to remodels Insured, quality work 269-374-0185
Community Page Community Page
Announce the Par ty in the Community Pages
1 column x 3” Ad for ONLY $25
2 column x 3” Ad for ONLY $45
Community Shoppers Guide
117 N Farmer, Otsego • (269)694-9431
info@communityshoppersguide net
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
Shoppers Guide
117 N Far mer St , Otsego • 269-694-9431 www communityshoppersguide net email: info@commun tyshoppersguide net
Walter E SYLVESTER JR AGE 73 - OTSEGO, MI
Walter Edward Sylvester Jr , 73, of Otsego, Michigan, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2026, at Centrica Rose Arbor Hospice in Kalamazoo, surrounded by his loving family He was born on December 15, 1952, in Battle Creek, Michigan Walter was a man whose life was defined by devotion to family, hard work, and quiet strength Those who knew him best describe him as selfless, dependable, and supportive He spent his life putting the needs of others before his own, serving as a steady foundation and guiding presence for those he loved Whether offering encouragement, wisdom, or simply showing up when someone needed him, Walter could always be counted on At the heart of Walter’s life was his family He naturally took on the role of provider, leader, caretaker, and anchor He believed that actions spoke louder than words and demonstrated his love through everyday acts of kindness, warm hugs, and always being willing to lend a helping hand Family traditions such as camping trips, cookouts, beach outings, Parker picnics, Detroit Tigers games, fireworks displays, and evenings spent together created memories that will be cherished for generations Walter spent his career working in manufacturing and factory settings, taking great pride in being a hardworking provider for his family He was proud of the life he built alongside his wife and of the successful, hardworking men his sons became His dedication discipline, and work ethic served as an example to everyone around him He often reminded those he loved to “do the task right the first time,” a lesson that reflected the standards he held for himself every day Outside of work, Walter found joy in life’s simple pleasures He loved camping fishing grilling, spending time outdoors, and gathering with family He was known as a top-notch griller and many family meals were made special by his presence at the grill Walter was an avid sports fan who enjoyed watching Michigan football, cheering for the Detroit Lions, attending Detroit Tigers baseball games, and taking in a variety of sporting events whenever he had the opportunity He enjoyed relaxing under the gazebo and cherished every chance to spend time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren Walter was also known for his sense of humor and memorable sayings Family members can still hear him enthusiastically shouting “WOOOOO!” or jokingly saying,
“Ain’t my fault you submit to Walt ” His grandchildren and great-grandchildren especially treasured the playful moments and special treats he affectionately called “woodas ” Throughout his life, Walter faced challenges with remarkable courage When diagnosed with cancer, he met it head-on with determination and without complaint After the loss of his beloved wife following 48 years of marriage, he continued to press forward with strength and resilience, taking on new responsibilities while remaining committed to caring for his family Even during difficult times, he was always willing to listen, offer support, and provide a shoulder to lean on Walter is survived by his sons, Michael (Mindy) Sylvester of Colorado and Andrew (Renee) Sylvester of Colorado He was a proud grandfather to Braedan, Ryan, Jordan, Allison, Zachary, Makenzie, and Sarah, each of whom brought tremendous joy and pride to his life He was also blessed with four greatgrandchildren, Aizlynn, Matteo, Zaiden, and Mileena, who were among his greatest joys in recent years Walter was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Deborah Sylvester; his son, Jeffrey Sylvester; and his parents, Walter Edward Sylvester and Irene Marie Sylvester Walter’s legacy is one of commitment, loyalty, perseverance, and unconditional love He championed family above all else and built a life centered on purpose and service to others His hardworking spirit, steadfast loyalty, and refusal to quit live on in his children, grandchildren, and all who were fortunate enough to know him If Walter could leave one final piece of advice, it would be simple: let your actions speak louder than your words Above all, Walter will be remembered as a generous, loving, and selfless man who raised his sons to become strong, caring husbands, fathers, and men of character His love remains woven into the lives of his family, and his memory will continue to guide them for years to come A Celebration of Life honoring Deborah Sylvester, Walter Edward Sylvester Jr , and Jeffrey Edward Sylvester will be held on Sunday, June 28, 2026, from 2:00 p m to 4:00 p m at the Otsego VFW, 124 N Farmer Street, Otsego, Michigan 49078 Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate the lives of three beloved members of the Sylvester family Cremation entrusted to Family First Funeral & Cremation Services
The family is being cared for by Family First Funeral & Cremation Services
52780 M-40, Marcel us, MI 49067
Please sign the guestbook and/or share a memory www familyfirstfunerals com
SUNDAY, Aug. 9
Registration 8am • Shotgun Star t 9am $80 /golfer • $320 /foursome • Lunch Included at Shamrock Hills Golf Club 31071 CR390, Gobles, MI
Glenn Beier was a longtime teacher, coach, counselor & Athletic Director for Plainwell Schools, who passed away 8/6/15 Scholarship is funded by family & friends for graduating seniors from Plainwell
CONTACT US: glennbeiermemorialscholarship@gmail
Deborah J. SYLVESTER AGE 71 - OTSEGO, MI
Deborah J Sylvester, affectionately known as Debi, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2025, at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo She was born on August 5, 1954, in Swindon, England, to Jack and Doreen (Williams) Sausaman, who precede her in death Debi graduated from Plainwell High School in 1973 and from Davenport College She dedicated 28 years of her career to working for Dr Schultz in Kalamazoo Additionally, she shared her knowledge and passion for the medical field by teaching medical assistants at Everest Institute and Career Quest She found joy in reading and camping However, her greatest love was for her family Debi cherished spending time with her grandchildren and found fulfillment in teaching Bible study Debi is survived by her devoted husband, Walter "Ed" Sylvester, with whom she celebrated 48 years of marriage She leaves behind three loving children: Michael (Mindy) Sylvester of Colorado, Jeffrey Sylvester of Otsego, and Andrew (Renee) Sylvester of Colorado; seven adoring grandchildren, Allison (Dillon), Makenzie (Marcos), Zachary, Sarah, Braeden, Ryan, and Jordan and four great-grandchildren Debi is also remembered by her siblings, Linda (Gary) Hilliard of Tennessee and Gary (Joy) Sausaman of Plainwell, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins According to her wishes cremation has taken place and a memorial will be held at a later date Contributions in memory of Debi may be directed to The American Cancer Society Arrangements by Winkel Funeral Home - Otsego Messages of condolence may be posted at www WinkelFuneralHome com
Jane A. QUIGLEY
AGE 98 - OTSEGO MI
Heaven gained an angel when Jane Ann Quigley was called home on Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Plainwell She was born on July 7, 1927, in Otsego, the daughter of John and Belle (Marron) Kelly Jane graduated from Otsego High School in 1945 and worked at Plainwell Paper Credit Union for 33 years until her retirement in 1998 In her spare time Jane enjoyed cooking, baking, crocheting and going for walks She liked going to garage sales looking for treasures and never passed up a good deal Jane’s greatest pride and joy were her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-greatgrandchildren On March 25, 1946, in Otsego, she married Gerald “Jerry” Quigley who passed away in 1999 They had 53 wonderful years together and 22 summers at their Pine Lake Cottage Jane leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love for her family and a spirit of generosity that touched all who knew her Surviving are her children, Timothy (Marcia) Quigley and Mary Loughead; grandchildren, Jennifer, Janelle, Patrick, John, Kristin, Katie, Jeremy, Jessey, Erin and Lauren; 21 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son, Kevin; grandson, Paul; sister, Mary Payne; daughter-in-law, Chris and son-in-law, Tom Loughead Friends visited with Jane’s family from 5-8PM, Thursday, June 25, 2026, at the Winkel Funeral Home in Otsego, with a time of sharing starting at 7PM A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 A M , Friday, June 26, 2026, at St Margaret Catholic Church in Otsego, with Rev Fr Simon Manjooran officiating Burial will follow at St Margaret Cemetery in Otsego Contributions in memory of Jane may be directed to St Vincent de Paul Ministry in Otsego Arrangements by Winkel Funeral Home - Otsego
Messages of condolence may be posted at www WinkelFuneralHome com
Jeffrey E. SYLVESTER
AGE 47 - OTSEGO MI
Jeffrey Edward Sylvester, 47, of Otsego, Michigan, passed away on June 12, 2026, at his home He was born on September 25, 1978, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and spent his entire life in the Otsego area surrounded by the family he loved so deeply Jeff attended Plainwell Elementary School, Otsego Middle School, and graduated from Otsego High School He was a familiar presence in the community he called home, preferring the comfort of family, routine, and familiar surroundings Those who knew Jeff best would describe him as kind, caring, and compassionate While naturally quiet and reserved, he possessed a gentle heart and a deep concern for others He often thought of those around him before himself and showed his love through actions rather than words Once Jeff came to know and trust someone, he could open up and share the warmth and kindness that defined who he truly was Jeff’s childhood was filled with memories shared alongside his brothers He developed a lifelong love of video games from an early age, collecting gaming systems and memorabilia throughout his life Family stories often centered around the original Nintendo system that sparked countless sibling rivalries and summer arguments before eventually becoming a treasured keepsake He was known for mastering nearly every game he played, proudly recording the endings of his favorite Final Fantasy games on VHS tapes after conquering them Friends and family knew that if there was a two-player game to be played, Jeff was the teammate you wanted by your side Though he preferred the indoors, Jeff eventually found enjoyment shooting hoops with his brothers in the backyard and learning to appreciate family camping trips, despite initially resisting them with all his might Sundays were especially meaningful in the Sylvester household, filled with large family dinners prepared by his mother, time spent together, and cheering on the Detroit Lions Those traditions remained some of his most cherished memories Jeff worked at Allegan Steel and later devoted much of his time helping care for his parents Family was at the center of his life, and he could always be counted on to step in when he was needed He naturally took on the role of protector within the family and remained steadfastly devoted to those he loved In his free time, Jeff enjoyed following current events, discussing politics, watching
FOX News and WWE, and spending afternoons watching cooking shows with his father Together, they would often debate what should be made for dinner that evening based on what they had seen on television He loved his dogs dearly and found happiness in simple moments grilling on the back deck with family, spending time with his brothers, and watching his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews grow Their laughter always brought a smile to his face Throughout his life, Jeff faced the challenges of mental illness with quiet determination Those closest to him understood the strength it took to navigate those struggles each day His life serves as a reminder that mental illness is real, that compassion matters, and that every day should be met one step at a time with love for those around us Jeff will be remembered for his gentle nature, unwavering loyalty to his family, and the kindness he showed to others Deep down, he was caring, loving, and capable of forming meaningful connections with those who took the time to know him His memory will live on in the countless moments shared with those who knew and loved him Jeffrey was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Edward Sylvester Jr and Deborah Sylvester He is survived by his brothers, Michael (Mindy) Sylvester of Colorado and Andrew (Renee) Sylvester of Colorado; his nephews and nieces, Braedan, Ryan, Jordan, Allison, Zachary, Makenzie, and Sarah; his great-nephews and great-nieces, Aizlynn, Matteo, Zaiden, and Mileena; his beloved dogs; and many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory Jeff’s family hopes that those who remember him will carry forward a simple but important message: mental illness is real, compassion matters, and we should take life one day at a time while showing love and understanding to those around us A Celebration of Life honoring Deborah Sylvester, Walter Edward Sylvester Jr , and Jeffrey Edward Sylvester will be held on Sunday, June 28, 2026, from 2:00 p m to 4:00 p m at the Otsego VFW, 124 N Farmer Street, Otsego, Michigan 49078 Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate the lives of three beloved members of the Sylvester family Cremation has been entrusted to Family First Funeral & Cremation Services
The family is being cared for by Family First Funeral & Cremation Services 52780 M-40 Marcel us MI 49067 Please sign the guestbook and/or share a memory www familyfirstfunerals com
Community Page Community Page
Rental Available at Otsego Museum! 218 N Farmer St Graduation par ties, wedding and baby showers, bir thday par ties, business meetings and more! Room capacity 70 people Great pricing! otsegoahs1831@gmail com or call (269)692-3775
Faith LINK
“LITTLE
BY LITTLE”
“Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself Each day has enough trouble of its own Matthew 6:34
By Rev Dan Minor - revdm nor1945@gma l com
The late Fred Rogers was widely known as Mister Rogers to millions of preschool children who watched him on television which ran from l968-2001 He was a remar kable personality who had a simple way of shar ing simple tr uths to both children and parents
He once said “Parents don’t come full bloom at the bir th of their first baby In fact parenting is about growing It’s about our growing as much as our children are growing and that kind of growing happens little by little ”
Another illustration is the old stor y of the talking clock The clock calculated that it would have to tick more than 31 million times in one year Overwhelmed by that thought the clock quit ticking That was until it was told that it did not need to tick all at once – just one tick at a time Jesus is saying the same thing in the above verse (Matthew 6:34) He is telling us to live one d ay
impor tance of little things such as the growth of a tiny mustard seed, a little boy’s lunch, a cup of cold water given in His name and being faithful in little
We don’t have to worr y about tomorrow Yet we can make each day count by doing little things for the glor y of God Such things as a smile, a compliment, a visit, an email, or any small act of kindness can make another person’s day a little bit br ighter
Prayer: Dear Lord, with Your help, I will live one day at a time In Your strong name Amen
What is the best movie of all time? 1972 The Godfather! Most kids watch cartoons growing up but if you are a 3rd generation Italian American like me your “Bugs Bunny” is the Godfather You know the stars in that movie Marlon Brando, James Caan, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton, Talia Shire, and Al Pacino But do you know who Jasmine Sabu is? She is the animal trainer for the horse; Ever hear of Raymond Hartwick? He is one of the drivers Carlo Sivano? Conductor for the orchestra Marilyn Putnam? Wardrobe! Michael Chapman? Camera operator! Andrea Eastman? Casting!
Behind the 6 main actors in the Godfather we know are about 200 crew members we don’t know Some of them show up in the credits that scroll on the screen at the end of the movie as people are leaving the theater or closing the laptop or putting down the phone There is the cast and there is the crew who makes the cast thrive Behind you is a crew of people who have contributed to the movie of your life They aren’t highly visible; but they show up in the credits of the movie of your life If it wasn’t for them, you wouldn’t be who you are and where you are
The Apostle Paul had someone like that in his life Barnabas! He was the person behind Paul who helped Paul get his leading role Paul used to persecute Christians, throwing them in prison But then Paul became a Christian Or did he? Many followers of Jesus doubted the sincerity of Paul’s conversion You can’t blame them? But Barnabas advocated for Paul Acts 9:27 reads, “But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus ”
Without Barnabas there would be no Paul Barnabas is one of the most influential people in the New Testament precisely because he is rarely the center of attention His ministry was not about building his own platform; it was about helping others fulfill God's calling In many ways, Barnabas demonstrates that some of God's greatest leaders are those who invest in others rather than seek prominence for themselves Barnabas was a kingdom builder whose encouragement, generosity, and willingness to believe in people helped shape the future of the church Be a Barnabas!
