Amanda Easler makes a purchase at the ProMedica Veggie Mobile in front of Candyland Child Care in Morenci while driver Nathan Letson handles her credit card transaction. Most items are unbagged and can be purchased in small quantities.
GREEN/MORENCI ADVOCATE
By David Green
The Morenci Advocate
MORENCI — Morenci may be without a grocery store, but that doesn’t mean there’s no access to fresh fruit and vegetables.
The ProMedica Veggie Mobile comes to the rescue every Thursday morning at two locations. Like a traveling farmer’s market, the Veggie Mobile offers an array of fresh produce to shoppers.
Selection varies each week, but popular items including apples, bananas, potatoes, onions and berries are always in stock. A recent selection also included cucumbers, cabbage, carrots, clementines, grapes, lemons and more.
By Katherine Simpkins
The Morenci Advocate
MORENCI — The Morenci Downtown Development Authority launched its new Summer Saturdays series on June 7. The theme for the first event was “Horsin’ Around.”
The day began with the Run for the Roses 5K, where participants gathered at the municipal parking lot at Mill and Locust Streets. The race not only promoted fitness but also supported the Morenci Middle and High School cross country programs, with proceeds aiding
Upcoming dates are July 12 and August 9 See SUMMER SATURDAYS, page 2 See VEGGIE MOBILE, page 5
Morenci Elementary School student Nolan Craig rolls the dice for the largerthan-life board game at the center of the first Summer Saturdays event.
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in refurbishing their course. Coming in at just 19 minutes and 51 seconds, Beau Shaffer was the first to cross the finish line as his family watched in the audience. A total of 33 runners trekked the course and completed the 5K.
Afternoon activities behind North Street Pub included free pony rides, lawn games, and a horse-themed “kerplunk” raffle. The Belmont Stakes race was broadcast at the Rex Theater, which also offered free popcorn to attendees. The evening concluded with a DJ and food from the Fade to Black BBQ food truck, all within Morenci’s downtown social district, allowing guests to enjoy beverages from participating businesses.
Heather Sarnac, Morenci’s community and economic development director, emphasized the collaborative effort behind the event.
“Events like these do not happen by accident,” she said. “They are the result of collaboration between volunteers, local businesses, city staff, and community partners.”
Looking ahead, the next Summer Saturdays event is scheduled for July 12, featuring a classic car show, cornhole, face painting, a magician, and more, with Main Street closed to accommodate the festivities. Sarnac encourages community involvement.
“We are excited to keep building on this momentum and welcome anyone who wants to help us make it happen,” she said.
For more information on upcoming events, visit cityofmorenci.org.
By Katherine Simpkins
The Morenci Advocate
MORENCI — Morenci’s Stephenson Park reopened to the public on June 26 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the park’s extensive renovation, made possible by an $863,500 Spark Grant from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
Originally gifted to the city in the 1860s, Stephenson Park has served its community as a gathering place for many activities from shuffleboard to playground fun. For generations, Morenci’s community has enjoyed what the park has had to offer, so when it came to its reopening, many came to celebrate.
From community members and local leaders, to words shared from state representatives, many gathered under sunny skies to mark the transformation of the park into a more accessible, inclusive, and inviting space.
“Thanks to the Spark Grant, we have been able to transform Stephenson Park to become accessible, inclusive, and safe for neighbors and visitors to gather, play, and stay active for years to come,” said Heather Sarnac, director of community and economic development for the city of Morenci, as she welcomed attendees.
The ceremony honored key figures who helped bring the project to life. Among them was David Green, owner and publisher of the State Line Observer, who assisted in telling Morenci’s story during the grant application process.
“I don’t know how they could tell us no,” Green recalled saying at the time, about the community’s strong case for funding.
Lisa DuRussel, a registered landscape architect and professor at the University of
Michigan, was recognized for her leadership in designing the new park features.
“Lisa has served as the project’s prime professional, my partner, our advocate, bringing the community’s vision together
into a thoughtful, sophisticated, and welcoming design that is now here, in real life,” Sarnac said.
See PARK, page 6
By Julie C. Clemes
The Lenawee Voice
MORENCI — The Kiwanis Club of Morenci is a club of 22 residents with a mission that is simple yet profound: “To serve the needs of the community and create opportunities for the children of Morenci to thrive.”
In addition to their own projects, the group partners with local government, churches, businesses and others on civic projects throughout the year.
The club currently sponsors their annual Flag Project. American flags are purchased through the club, which “plants” them for display throughout the area during federal holidays from Memorial Day through Veterans Day. Cost of the flags for the entire season is $35. The flags are still available for the rest of 2025 and buyers will be charged for only the remaining holidays.
The 31st annual Silver Creek Bridge Walk will take place on Labor Day, (Monday, Sept. 1) at 11 a.m. The event benefits the Kiwanis of Morenci in
Golf fundraiser to benefit Revitalize Morenci projects
MORENCI — The Revitalize Morenci Initiative will host a golf outing fundraiser on Sunday, Aug. 17, at Woodlawn Golf Club, 4634 Treat Highway, Adrian.
The event will be an 18-hole scramble with teams of four. The cost is $75 per golfer. Registration begins at 8 a.m. and the tournament begins at 9 a.m.
Registrations are due by Aug. 8. Proceeds will support murals and other beautification projects in Morenci.
Morenci Area Schools reunion set for Aug. 16
MORENCI — A reunion for alumni of Morenci Area Schools from the 1930s to the 1980s will take place on Saturday, Aug. 16, starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Morenci Eagles. Pictures will start at 7 p.m. The cost of $12 per person includes a loaded baked potato bar with many toppings and pulled pork for sandwiches.
Community garage sale
the third weekend in July
MORENCI — The third weekend in July is the city of Morenci’s annual community garage sale weekend. While Saturday is the official day, most sales begin on Thursday.
Council approves new electrical inspector
MORENCI — Ed Zietlow will be the city’s new electrical inspector. His appointment was approved at the June Morenci City Council meeting. He replaces Brian Lewis, who had informed the city that he is trying to reduce the number of jurisdictions he covers. Zietlow was recommended by both Lewis and city building inspector Bob Hacket.
New firefighter hired
MORENCI — Jason Sturmer has been hired as a part-time firefighter for the Morenci Fire Department. The hiring was approved at the Morenci City Council’s June meeting.
partnership with the Morenci Food Bank, to help families in need. Sponsorships are available at three levels: Gold ($100), Silver ($50), and Bronze ($30).
The club will welcome donations for the Morenci Area Food Bank at the event.
Contributors at all levels will be recognized at the event and on Facebook. Silver and Gold sponsors will also get their name on the back of a T-shirt, and Gold sponsors will get their logo on the event flyer. Silver and Gold level sponsors need to make their donation before Aug. 6 in order to be on the shirt and flyer.
In a new program this year, the Kiwanis Club will present Yuletide Lights and Legacy Lane in Wakefield Park. The project aims to honor loved ones, represent a business or organization or spread cheer during the holiday season. The cost to reserve a 6-foot tree is $100, and includes a live tree, signage and power hookup. Participants provide their own LED lights (typically 600-900 lights per tree)
and decorations. Trees can be decorated from Nov. 16-30, and decorations need to be removed between Jan. 3 and Jan. 11. The deadline to register has been extended to Aug. 15.
Another holiday project is the Morenci Kiwanis Wishing Tree. The program started in 1996, and supports needy families who live in the 49256 zip code during the holiday season. The club gets names from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Gifts for children of the household, family household supplies, and things like blankets and towels are the mostrequested items.
Next February, the Kiwanis Club will hold its Annual Rex Riley Soup and Pie Fundraiser. Proceeds will go to the Rex Riley Scholarship fund, which is given out to four Morenci-area high school seniors.
The Kiwanis Club of Morenci partners with the city and other groups, businesses, individuals and area churches to sponsor events throughout the year. One upcoming event is the Back to School Bash on Aug. 13 from 6-8
p.m. in downtown Morenci. The event features games, free school supplies, local vendors, a display of equipment from the fire department, a dunk tank of local officials, as well as food made by the Morenci Area Schools cafeteria staff.
The group also sponsors the Christmas Parade, which this year will be held on Saturday, Dec. 6, starting at 6 p.m. More details will be available on the City of Morenci website. The club is also an ongoing sponsor of the Morenci Town & Country Festival, which was held May 29-31.
Information about any of the activities can be found on the Kiwanis Club of Morenci Facebook page. The club meets every Wednesday at noon at the Village Inn, 121 N. Main St., Morenci. Anyone interested in joining the club can attend the meeting, reach out on the group Facebook page or by email at morencikiwanisclub@gmail.com.
“If you have a passion to volunteer, we are the group to contact,” Kiwanian Rosemary Dickerson said. “We do a lot for just a few of us.”
MORENCI — Morenci’s citywide garbage pickup for bulky items is on Saturday, July 26. This service will be in addition to the normally scheduled Wednesday garbage pickup. Refuse items must be placed at the curb before 7 a.m. If articles are placed at the curb after any given street has been picked up, the crew will not return to that street.
Garbage pickup is limited to residents of the city of Morenci only. A penalty will be charged if rubbish from outside the city is found being brought into the city.
Accepted items include:
n All bagged and containerized municipal solid waste.
n Larger items such as carpet (4-foot rolls), padding (4-foot rolls), furniture, mattresses, box springs, toys, bicycles, appliances with some exceptions, home fixtures, and any other items as long as they are considered non-hazardous and can be safely lifted by two people.
n Latex paints, as long as they are dried up in containers.
n Bags and containers must weigh less than 50 pounds.
Items that will not be picked up include:
n Small loose items.
n Any bags or containers over 50 pounds.
n Large plastic drums or burn barrels.
n Concrete.
n Large pieces of metal.
n Yard waste.
n Liquid or hazardous waste.
n Tires.
n Non-latex paints and varnishes.
n Motor oil and solvents.
n Batteries.
n Regulated medical wastes.
n Construction materials such as flooring, cabinets, shingles, siding, wood, bricks or blocks.
n Appliances that contain freon, such as refrigerators and air conditioners. (These items can be accepted if the freon is removed and the appliance is tagged by a licensed facility as having had it removed).
n Any items that are listed by the state as banned from Michigan landfills.
HUDSON TWP. — The bridge on Beecher Road just east of U.S. 127 that was damaged by fire in 2023 could be rebuilt next year, if all goes well.
County administrator Kim Murphy included an update on the bridge in her June 6 newsletter for county residents. Bridges are overseen by the Lenawee County Road Commission, which is an independent agency and not part of county government, but Murphy reached out to the road commission for information because of the high volume of questions the county has been receiving about the bridge.
The bridge crosses Saint Joseph Creek, just east of U.S. 127 and just north of Hudson. It was damaged on Nov. 5, 2023, when an area resident’s leaf burn got out of control.
After the fire, the road commission determined it was not able to safely carry traffic loads, and it has been closed since then.
In October 2024, road commissioners were notified that their request for $2.4 million in federal bridge funds for the 2027 fiscal year had been approved. Under the grant, the road commission will be responsible for 10% of the construction cost and 100% of the design and construction engineering.
Bridges must be over 20 feet long to be eligible for state and federal
The bridge over Saint Joseph Creek on Beecher Road just north of Hudson was damaged by fire in 2023.
bridge funds. The Beecher Road bridge over Saint Joseph Creek is one of 179 such structures in Lenawee County. According to the road commission, five of those are currently closed and 13 have weight restrictions posted.
The Beecher Road bridge replacement had to compete against numerous other projects for the funds.
The Beecher bridge project is currently in the Michigan Department of Transportation’s design and environmental review process.
Given the importance of the bridge to local drivers, the road commission asked MDOT about the possibility of an early construction date if all the environmental clearances have been approved and the construction plans are completed.
MDOT said that an early start was a possibility, so the road commission is pushing to be able to do construction in 2026. However, the commission noted that it is still too early to say it will happen for sure.
ADRIAN — Siena Heights University announced on June 30 that the school will close at the conclusion of the 2025-26 academic year.
The decision was made with the full support of the Siena Heights board of trustees and General Council of the Adrian Dominican Sisters, according to a news release. In the announcement, the
university stated that senior leadership has assessed the school’s financial situation, operational challenges, and long-term sustainability, and determined that despite the dedication of SHU’s board, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and supporters, continuing operations beyond the coming academic year is no longer feasible.
“For 105 years, Siena Heights University has been a beacon of light in a world sometimes cast in darkness,” said Siena Heights president Douglas B. Palmer. “The spirit of Siena Heights will continue long after the institution itself closes its doors because it lives in every graduate, faculty member, and staff person who has been on campus — whether in-person or online.”
The university stated that its top priority will be students’ academic progress and working with partner institutions to establish transfer pathways that allow as little disruption as possible. Faculty and staff will be supported with transition assistance. The intent is to have as full and vibrant an academic year as possible.
ADRIAN — The Michigan Department of State is bringing its Road to Restoration program to the ProMedica Ebeid Center at Comstock, 801 E. Maumee St. in Adrian, for a free driver’s license restoration clinic on Thursday, July 31, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The clinic includes a fully equipped mobile Secretary of State unit. The most valuable benefit of the clinic is the assistance provided to residents in Lenawee and surrounding counties in determining the steps they need to take to regain their driving privileges.
The team on-site includes attorneys who will be available at no charge. Residents are encouraged to register in advance at michigan.gov/R2R but there will also be a walk-in option for those who don’t sign up ahead of time.
The Department of State is partnering with a host of local and statewide organizations on the clinic, including ProMedica’s Adrian Ebeid Neighborhood Promise, Michigan Works! Southeast, the United Way of Monroe/Lenawee Counties, the Lenawee Community Foundation, the Stubnitz Foundation, the Michigan Department of Attorney General, the Detroit Justice Center, and Michigan 211.
“We are very excited to bring the Road to Restoration clinic back to Adrian for the second year,” said Lynne Punnett, manager of community resilience for the Adrian Ebeid Center.
“Last year our goal was to fill 40 appointment slots, and after seeing one man leave with his driver’s license in hand and hearing another man tell me he would be able to have visitation with his children because he learned what he needed to do to have his drivers license restored, we knew we had to increase the number of people we could serve. This year our goal is to serve 100 community members at the clinic.”
Now in its fourth year, the Road to Restoration program has hosted over 65 clinics across the state and provided one-on-one assistance to over 10,000 Michiganders. The program was created to help more than 150,000 people newly eligible to regain their driving privileges after changes to state law in 2021. About 3,000 more Michiganders were made eligible to apply for a driver’s license on April 2 under Public Act 42 of 2024.
The new law repealed the state’s threeyear ban on individuals cited for driving without a license to apply for license reinstatement.
Road to Restoration clinics are free of charge, but a records check is required. Thanks to the partners making the Adrian clinic possible, the $16 records check fee
ADRIAN — Launch Lenawee’s Entrepreneurial Action Program (LLEAP) recently graduated eight new entrepreneurs in its eighth class and is now recruiting students for the ninth LLEAP class, which will begin on Saturday, July 12.
The course will be held in the lower level of the Adrian Armory, 230 W. Maumee St., Adrian. The full schedule for the course will be built around students’ schedules. There will be eight sessions over 16 weeks.
“The time goes by so fast,” said Sheila Blair, instructor for the class. “People might look at these 16 weeks of class and think ‘that’s a long time,’ but, in reality, it flies by. It’s only 24 hours of in-person class in total.”
Blair said the classes are spaced out every two weeks to allow participants, who usually work full time, the time they need to complete the coursework.
The cost of the program is usually $599 per student. However, for years, scholarships have been made available through the generosity of local entrepreneurs Mark and Mary Murray, reducing the student fee to only $99.
“The class guided us step by step through every element of building a professional business plan from vision to financials,” said Brian Slusarski, a graduate of the most recent class, who attended to develop Slusarski U-Park and Storage. “I was thoroughly impressed by how comprehensive and well-structured the LLEAP program was.”
Launch Lenawee’s mission is to impact the community in a positive way by connecting resources to entrepreneurs. Anyone interested in the ninth LLEAP class can contact Blair at sheila.armory@gmail.com.
is fully covered, and thanks to Michigan Works some other fees for past fines may be covered as well. It is important that people understand that the clinics do not provide DUI expungement services and license reinstatement is not guaranteed.
“The Road to Restoration program has helped many people get back on the road safely and legally,” said Abigayl Venman, director of the Road to Restoration program.
“Having a driver’s license is vitally important in everyday life, enabling people to drive to a job, take their kids to school, or go to medical appointments. It is important to provide this program that assists in restoring residents’ driving privileges, which can be truly lifechanging.”
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The Veggie Mobile was launched by ProMedica in 2013 with the goal of improving the health of county residents via good food. Initial funding was bolstered by a grant from the United States Department of Agriculture in partnership with the Lenawee Health Network.
Morenci was added to the circuit in 2014 and the truck currently stops in 19 other locations around the county. From 10 to 10:30 a.m. Thursdays, the Veggie Mobile parks in front of Candyland Child Care on North Summit Street in Morenci. From 10:30 to 11 the truck is at the Morenci Senior Center at the Lutheran Church on West Chestnut Street.
Cash, credit card and EBT cards are accepted for payment.
The majority of the produce is purchased from Ciolino Fruit and Vegetable Market near Temperance, but more local produce is added throughout the summer. Needle Lane Farm near
Road to Restoration clinic
DATE AND TIME: Thursday, July 31, from 11 a.m.to 3 p.m.
LOCATION: ProMedica Ebeid Center, 801 E. Maumee St., Adrian.
COST: Free (the $16 records check fee is being covered by partners in the Adrian clinic; some other fees for past fines may be able to be covered as well).
TO REGISTER: Advance signup is encouraged at michigan.gov/R2R, but walk-ins are also allowed.
Tipton often supplies organic vegetables.
“We’ll be getting more locally-grown produce soon,” said driver Nathan Letson. “We do accept food from local farmers.” Call 517-577-1020 for more information.
ProMedica Farms also grows food to place on the truck.
“Our hoop house is looking beautiful,” Letson said.
Volunteer opportunities are available at the farm, located just north of ProMedica Hickman Hospital.
Kids try out the new playground structures during the reopening of Stephenson Park on June 26. Additions include new and accessible playground installations, a paved walking path running one-fifth of a mile around the park’s perimeter, a full-size basketball court and a pickleball court, two pavilions, seating areas, lighting, and accessible parking. KATHERINE SIMPKINS/MORENCI ADVOCATE
from page 3
Kelsey Dietz, representing the Michigan DNR, attended to celebrate the agency’s role in funding the improvements, while Morenci Mayor Tracy Schell and Tracy Oberleiter from Sen. Joe Bellino’s office offered remarks highlighting the project’s importance to Morenci’s future.
“What we are celebrating today is more than an improved park,” Sarnac said. “It’s a reflection of what can happen when people come together with a shared purpose. ... This space will serve not just our community today, but future generations of families, kids, residents, and visitors who will gather here, play here, and build new memories here.”
Joy Mason was among the area kids who came to check out the new features at Stephenson Park and take part in family activities at the park’s reopening on June 26.
By Ryan McDowell The Morenci Advocate
MORENCI — The Morenci Bulldogs’ season came to an end in the Division 4 regional semifinals with a 6-0 defeat at the hands of a tough Manchester squad.
The Flying Dutchmen won both regular season matchups with scores of 12-1 and 10-3. But Morenci entered the regional tournament on a five-game winning streak.
“I thought we played with more confidence,” coach Kay Johnson said. “We weren’t afraid at the plate.”
Morenci hitters had trouble figuring out Manchester’s ace who threw all seven innings and finished with 15 strikeouts to just three hits and a walk.
“She has one of the nicest rise balls I’ve seen in a couple of years,” Johnson said of the opposition’s ace.
Rylee Frederick’s double in the second inning was the first hit for the Bulldogs, but she was left stranded and the game was scoreless after two innings.
Manchester scored two runs in the third inning and two more in the fourth to build a 4-0 lead before tacking on two additional runs in the sixth.
Evelyn Joughin swings for the fences as one of the first up to bat during the June 7 game. KATHERINE SIMPKINS/MORENCI ADVOCATE
Johnson knew Manchester had a couple of special hitters at the top of their lineup that would be tough outs. The #1 and #2 hitters accounted for four of the Flying Dutchmen’s six runs.
Evelyn Joughin and Gracie Snead added singles in the third and seventh innings respectively for Morenci but the Bulldogs were unable to drive them in.
Coach Johnson thought the girls played better throughout the year, both at the plate and defensively knowing their assignments and where they needed to be.
“Addyson pitched better,” Johnson said of starting pitcher Addyson Valentine. “She isn’t going to overpower hitters necessarily, but she changes speed and uses location very effectively.”
Valentine finished the season with over 200 strikeouts.
There will be a couple of holes to fill but Coach Johnson sees plenty to be optimistic about for the future. Valentine will return for another year on the mound. A young infield will have another year of maturation under their belts and will be anchored by the senior Joughin at shortstop.
“Over the years, it seems to be the sophomore to junior jump where the
Addyson Valentine, pictured during Regionals on June 7, racked up more than 200 strikeouts over the course of the season.
players get physically stronger,” Johnson noticed. “Hitting-wise they are stronger at the plate.”
Improvement from freshman Tavin Kruse in centerfield along with the aforementioned infield also suggests the Bulldog defense will be sound as well.
Morenci finished 21-15 overall with a district championship added to the trophy case.
By Ryan McDowell
The Morenci Advocate
SHEPHERD — The Morenci Middle School Track and Field team sent two athletes to the Mid Michigan MEGASTAR Meet on June 5 in Shepherd.
Eighth graders Aubrie Sandusky and Jordan Ekins competed in the 800m run and shot put respectively. And both girls saved their best for last.
Sandusky had already set a new school record earlier in the season, but her 2:34:02s 800m run at the MEGASTAR Meet was over two seconds faster than
Both girls placed sixth in their events for the small school division.
“MEGASTAR is described as ‘designed to get the best of the best middle school athletes’, ” head coach Erin Ekins said.
The MEGASTAR Meet has athletes from all schools competing against one another, but scoring is broken into two divisions. Competitors from middle schools that feed into Division 1 and 2 sized high schools are in the large school division, while competitors from Division 3 and 4 sized schools are in the small school division.
Middle school athletes can qualify for the meet throughout the season at any
Morenci High School second semester honor roll
All A’s
Sixth grade: Madison Ables, Denver Dominique, Sophia Easler, Maddox Joughin, Amelia Klinger, Kaden Lee, Colton McVay, Nathan Sandusky, Annabelle Schmidt, Crue Simpkins.
Seventh grade: Karon Fernando De Jesus, Lillyanna Gore, Alexander Kaufman, Carter Scivoletto, Maryn Shaffer, Izabella Stepansky, Derek Vasher, Bentley Zebolsky.
Eighth grade: Jaylee Ables, Jordan Ekins, Claire Fee, Tessa Gilpin, Kylee Grieder, Avah Guhl, Julie Guillen, Holden Hutchison, Layla Myers, Heaven Ohlinger, Emma Overmyer, Aubrie Sandusky, Makinley Valentine, Colsen Waltzer, Noah Zuvers.
Ninth grade: Brennen Harsh, Lillian Harsh, Drew Joughin, Harrison Sarnac.
Tenth Grade: Hailey Cleveland, Aly Curtis, Colbie Ekins, Rylee Frederick, Mariana Guillen, Jayla McCowan, Lilly Roger, Callie VanBrandt, Landon Wilkins, Tessa Zuvers.
Eleventh grade: Rebecca Cox, Marcus Golban, Evelyn Joughin, Addyson Valentine.
Twelfth grade: Wyatt Berger, Ishmam Choudhury, Danilo Goranovic, Anil Guler, Zoey Martinez, Makayla Nieman, Abby Pierce, Chelsea Pierce, Beau Shaffer, Wyatt Stevens, Emily Zuvers.
All A’s and B’s
Sixth grade: Marissa Ables, Harlee Bays, Colten Bernath, Isabella Borton, Justin Dickerson, Savannah Easler, Maximus Erbskorn-Kass, Isaac Heilner, Lillian Hicks, Tenley Kruse, Duncan McIntyre, Teagan Phillips, Lexus Piercy, Evan Stricklen, Kennedy Whitehead.
Seventh grade: Madelyn Barnhart, Mackenzie Dial, Nolan Fowler, James Gierucki, Emilen Mossing, Esther Sizemore, Aaron Stretch, MaKenzy Witte-Cousino.
Eighth grade: Abbagail Bauer, Aaron Brown, Mason Cleveland, Jayse Dunn, Annabella Glass, Brenden Hudik, Sofia Jimenez, Jenna Lambes, Jazmynn Stoddard.
Ninth grade: Brielle Casey, Brennan Mathias, Jesse McClain, Baylie Miller, Audrey Price, Christina Voss.
Tenth grade: Lillie Ford, Tyler Smith, Emilee Stretch, Jaelyn Thompson, Emma Williams.
Eleventh grade: Emersyn Bachelder, Lauryn Dominique, Talan Kruse, Katelyn Ruse, Jack Varga.
Twelfth grade: Paige Cousino, Alyssa Gibbs, Celeste Glass, Brady Pummell, Jaloladdin Rahimov, William Riley, Zachary Stevens, Ronald Wright.
Morenci Elementary School second semester honor roll All A’s & B’s
Third grade: Eve Betz, Owen Edwards, Brayden Fee, Liberty Gallup, Amelia Gehring, Helen Gruber, Emma Heilner, Eleanor Hutchison, Raine Loudenslager, Grady McVay, Brendan Mills, Lindy Myers, Nova Rock, Bensyn Sanders, Brayden Scivoletto, Raiden Sharrock, Case Simpkins, Lenna Thomas, Gracelyn Timberman, Devin Williams.
Fourth grade: Owen Apger, Bowen Bernath, Junior Bussell, Jase Conner, Colton Cox, Alan Fernando de Jesus, Trenton Hauser, Jaxson Johnson, Audrey Klinger, Paisley McMunn, Benjamin Schell, Quinn Taylor, Madelyn Timberman, Annabelle Townsend, Ethan Trent.
Fifth grade: Autumn Clough, Nolan Craig, Natalia Cummins, Nash Ekins, Logan Gierucki, Zoey Glass, Addison Guhl, Sofia Guillen, Dominic Harris, Amelia Harsh, Alexa Jimenez, Rileigh Loudenslager, Taylor Moran, Luke Myers, Liam Overmyer, Lynden Sarnac, Ava Scivoletto, Trinity Snyder, Prudence Stuck, Declan Stucker, Claire Thompson.
ADRIAN — The Lenawee County Fairgrounds are getting a major upgrade just in time for this year’s fair, which runs from July 20-26.
Thanks to the support of local businesses and community partners, a brand-new bandshell is being installed to host a lineup of free entertainment throughout the week.
A Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development grant awarded last year has helped fund much-needed roof replacements on the sheep and poultry barns, while renovations are underway at the beef barn and other livestock areas. Volunteers from 4-H and FFA are hard at work giving the Show Barn a refreshed look, ensuring it’s ready to showcase this year’s animals in style.
A newly upgraded entrance near the Grandstand is being constructed.
Camping capacity is expanding too, with additional space being added to accommodate 4-H and FFA families.
This year will also bring more free entertainment, including chainsaw woodcarving every day and glassblowing and blacksmith demonstrations from Tuesday through Saturday. There will also be a Tuesday night drone show, and a mobile gaming trailer open all week.
The Eyes of Freedom traveling memorial will be at the fairgrounds from Tuesday though Saturday. This memorial tells the story of Lima Company, an Ohio-based Marine Reserve unit that lost 22 Marines and one Navy Corpsman while deployed to Iraq in 2005.
Live music at the Grandstand is being expanded this year. At the 2024 fair, a ’90s throwback concert brought live music back to the grandstand for the first time in several years. This year, there will be two musical offerings: a Midwest Tejano Showcase at 7 p.m. Tuesday featuring La Nueva Onda and Dezeo, and a country music concert at 7:30 p.m. Thursday featuring Josh Ross and Preston Cooper.
Following is a partial schedule for the week. Events are in the bandshell unless otherwise noted.
Sunday, July 20
10 a.m.: Sand Creek Community Church Service.
1 p.m.: Lenawee County Fair Parade.
4 p.m.: Princess Walk.
6 p.m.: Earl Kelly Memorial Pull (in the Grandstand).
6:45 p.m.: Opening ceremony.
7 p.m.: Lenawee County Fair Queen contest.
Monday, July 21
5 p.m.: 4-H performing arts and project runway.
6 p.m.: Lenawee County celebrity pie eating contest.
7 p.m.: Music by Los Hermanos.
7 p.m.: Figure 8 Car and Truck Demo (in the Grandstand).
Tuesday, July 22
9 a.m.: 4-H Dog Show.
1 p.m.: Department on Aging.
2:30 p.m.: Granberry Jam.
4 p.m.: Elvis tribute.
5:30 p.m.: Warehouse Cloggers.
7 p.m.: Midwest Tejano Showcase with two live bands, La Nueva Onda and Dezeo (in the Grandstand).
7 p.m.: Adrian City Band.
8:30 p.m.: Tommy Sargent.
Wednesday, July 23
11 a.m.: Veterans luncheon program.
2:30 p.m.: Tropa de Niños Pequeños.
4 p.m.: Queens talent review.
7 p.m.: T & Rich Dueling Pianos.
7 p.m.: Figure 8 Car and Truck Demo (in the Grandstand).
Thursday, July 24
1 p.m.: Tecumseh String Studio.
3 p.m.: The Lawn Flamingos.
5 p.m.: Black Dragon’s Den.
7 p.m.: Stray Shot Band.
7:30 p.m.: Country Music Night with Josh Ross and Preston Cooper (in the Grandstand).
Friday, July 25
1 p.m.: 4-H Food Eating Contest.
3 p.m.: Berean Baptist Church.
5 p.m.: Bark’s Tales.
7 p.m.: Braxton Garza
7 p.m.: Diesel and Gas Truck Pull (in the Grandstand).
Saturday, July 26
1 p.m.: Adrian Junior Majorettes.
2:30 p.m.: Scot Kifer.
4 p.m.: MST Dance Studio.
5 p.m.: Bark’s Tales.
7 p.m.: Paisley Grace.
7 p.m.: Tuff Truck and Car Competition (in the Grandstand).
Gate hours are from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day except Sunday. On Sunday, the hours are 1 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Daily admission is $7 (free for children ages 9 and under). A seven-pack of tickets is $35. Wristbands for unlimited rides all week are available for $75 during fair week, and $65 if purchased in advance.
One-day wristbands are available for $30 (plus $2 activation fee).
The Midway is closed Sunday and Monday. Rides will open on Tuesday at 5 p.m., and the rest of the week at 2 p.m.
The Clayton School reunion took place on June 21 at Clayton Town Hall. In the front row are Diane Wellnitz Mills, Marge Kidd Schroeder, Paul Burcroff, Beverly Smith Burcroff, and Patty Higley Hatt. In the middle row are Pam Peacock Kramer, Pat Peacock DeLong, Troy DeLong, and Ron Kidd. In the back row are Robb Sweet, Denver Hedge, Ray Wilson, Wayne Baker, Sheila Brown Double, Bruce Price, Marsha Baker Hoffman, Melissa Peacock McDermid, Jim Patton, Gary Sturtevant, Diane “Red” Kaiser Jacobs, Les Wellhauser, Mike Irwin, and Bill Rowley.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 2
First Wednesday Taco Night Morenci Legion, 9010 Morenci Road, 5-7 p.m.
The Morenci American Legion hosts Taco Night on the first Wednesday of every month.
TUESDAY, JULY 8
Pedal the Hills
Hidden Lake Gardens, 6214 Monroe Rd., Tipton, 6-10 p.m.
Enjoy an evening of bicycling or walking at Hidden Lake Gardens. Explore over six miles of paved trails, surrounded by beautiful scenery and highlights of the gardens. Walk or bring your own bicycle to enjoy the gardens at your own pace. Helmets are recommended for all cyclists. Cycling permitted on paved trails only. The Sky Walk and hiking trails will be open for exploration on foot. For safety, Woodland Drive and Arboretum Road will be closed to motorized vehicles during this event. Free admission for Hidden Lake Gardens members, Adrian District Library, Lenawee County Library, Stair District Library and Tecumseh District Library cardholders (Please present your library or membership card for entry). Regular admission rates apply to all other visitors. More info: hiddenlakegardens.msu.edu.
FRIDAY, JULY 11
Tween Water Day
Normal Memorial Library, 301 N. Eagle St., Fayette, 6-7 p.m.
A fun summer event for fifth through eighth grades only. Please plan to get wet and bring a towel. Register by contacting the library, 419-237-2115.
Outdoor Concert Series: DJ Van Damage North Street Pub, 113 North St., Morenci, 8-11 p.m.
Enjoy live music at North Street Pub’s outdoor concert series, on the second Friday of every month.
SATURDAY, JULY 12
Summer at the StoryWalk Wakefield Park, 527 W. Main St., Morenci, 10 a.m.
Families with kids from birth to age 12 are invited to take part in a StoryWalk adventure including tasty treats, sensory bins, books, giveaways and crafty creations to take home. Everything at the event is free, including Levi’s Sweet Treats the first 50 people. Three families will win a five-pack of day passes to Wauseon Public Pool. More info: 517-417-8051.
Sierra Rowley of Adrian, formerly of Morenci, tries out the giant Connect Four game in Downtown Commons, located in the courtyard across from the North Street Pub. A variety of games have been installed in the courtyard this summer in order to make it into more of a community gathering space. KATHERINE SIMPKINS/MORENCI ADVOCATE
WEDNESDAY, JULY 16
Touch-a-Truck Event
Stair District Library, 228 W. Main St., Morenci, 1-3 p.m. Kids can learn about a wide variety of trucks and meet the people who operate them.
THURSDAY, JULY 17
Fayette Community Art Show Finale Normal Memorial Library, 301 N. Eagle St., Fayette, 6-7 p.m.
THURSDAY, JULY 24
Glass Making Class
Morenci Legion, 9010 Morenci Road. Sign up and pay at the Legion Post to reserve your spot. Classes available at 4 p.m., 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. $50. More info: 517-458-2377.
SATURDAY, JULY 26
Ghost Pipe, Black Moon Cult, and The Velvet Snakes
Rex Theater, 9 p.m.
Three bands. One night. No escape. The Rex Theater gets swallowed in a fog of fuzz, feedback, and fullblown freak-out.
TUESDAY, JULY 29
Health Care Camp
Fulton County Health Center, 725 S. Shoop Ave., Wauseon, 1-4:30 p.m.
Learn about the many and varied career paths in the health care field. The camp is free, but is limited to the first 10 high school or college students who make reservations. Reservation forms can be obtained from Mary Gautz, mgautz@fulhealth.org. More info: 419-335-2015.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6
Magic show with Cameron Zvara
Stair District Library, 228 W. Main St., Morenci, 1-3 p.m.
First Wednesday Taco Night
Morenci Legion, 9010 Morenci Road, 5-7 p.m.
The Morenci American Legion hosts Taco Night on the first Wednesday of every month.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 8
Outdoor Concert Series:
Chase Van Brandt & the Dive Bar All-Stars North Street Pub, 113 North St., Morenci, 8-11 p.m.
Enjoy live music all summer at North Street Pub’s new outdoor concert series, on the second Friday of every month.
To submit items for inclusion in this calendar, please email Linda Cline at lcline@lenaweevoice.com.
Morenci High School’s prom court in 1980 included, standing, John Van Havel, Jude Logan, Rich Woodby, Cathy French, Lisa Mock, Brian Livingston, Vandria Vereecke, Bob Durall, Kyoko Takashi, and Delbert McClain; and in the front row, Maliea Gillspie, Chuck Fink, Denise Huff, Jeff Davis, Kerrie Bagley, and Kirk Ludman. — YEARBOOK ARCHIVES AT STAIRLIBRARY.ADVANTAGE-PRESERVATION.COM
Janet Hughes stepped down as Morenci High School’s art teacher to take a job with the Saline school district.
Dwight Mansfield was re-elected as president of the Morenci school board. Other officers were Carl Patton as vice president, Jim Place as secretary, and Merton Easler as treasurer.
A Community Build was held to put together new playground equipment for Wakefield Park.
Neal V. Singles was hired as superintendent of Morenci Area Schools, replacing James Laidler.
Dick LaRowe of Morenci, a student at Siena Heights College, played Tommy Djilas in the Croswell Opera House’s production of “The Music Man.”
Robert H. Knox of Clayton, a former Morenci wrestling coach, was hired to coach wrestling, golf, and cross country at Siena Heights.
The Morenci fire department was called to the Morenci Rubber Plant after a fire broke out when the rubber rollers were being cleaned with gasoline.
A second police officer, Fred Mohr, was hired to assist Chief George Sproull.
The Lenawee County Health Department issued a list of recommendations for protecting children from polio.
Sarah Metcalf was re-elected as president of the Morenci school board.
Workmen finished repairs to the roof of Stair Auditorium.
The Observer asked why no effort was being made to establish a “quiet zone” around Morenci’s Blair Hospital.
— from the Observer archives
ADRIAN — Adrian College’s Robinson Planetarium is hosting public programs this summer, with shows every Friday at 7 p.m. from June through August.
All programs are free and open to the public.
The planetarium’s summer program explores “What’s Up in the Summer Night Skies” in Michigan. Audiences will take a guided journey through the solar system, featuring Earth’s star, the sun, and its family of planets.
Guests should enter through the northeast Williams Street entrance of Peelle Hall. Directional signs will guide visitors to the entrance.
The planetarium offers 68 theater-style seats and recommends arriving 10 to 15 minutes early for preferred seating. On-street parking is available on Williams Street.
For more information about the Robinson Planetarium or its programs, contact planetarium director Mark Fairclough at mfairclough@adrian.edu.
The Country Roads Music Festival was initiated by a campground owner after the cancellation of Faster Horses
By Julie C. Clemes The Lenawee Voice
WOODSTOCK TWP. — Country music will return to southeast Michigan this July at the Country Roads Music Festival. Darci Keyes, owner of The Groves of Michigan Campground, organized the event after the cancellation of Faster Horses at Michigan International Speedway.
The festival will take place from Friday, July 18 through Sunday, July 20 at the campground located in Brooklyn, Michigan. The campground has 220 acres, of which 15 to 20 will be used for the festival activities. Between 80 and 100 acres will be devoted to camping, including tents, RV’s and trailers, Keyes said.
Keyes said the goal of the festival is to showcase upcoming Michigan talent as well as provide a venue for the headlining acts. A total of twenty acts will perform over the three-day event.
“The Michigan bands that are coming are just amazing, talented bands that are trying to make it to that next level and become country music starts,” Keyes said, “and we really wanted to promote them and give them a place where they could play for bigger audiences.
Live entertainment will run all three days from noon to 10:30 p.m. on the main stage. Restless Road will perform on Friday from 9 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Eric Church/Chris Stapleton Tribute Bands, Derek Jones and the 50 South, Chad Flores, and acoustic stage sets by 12/ OC, Derek Jones, Chad Flores, Blake James and Justin Judge will be performed earlier in the day.
On Saturday, Colt Ford will headline the entertainment from 9 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Musicians Louie Lee, The Jessie Campbell Band, Ryan Jay and Madison Olivia will be featured on the main stage. Acoustic stage sets by Lee, Jay and Olivia will be featured, as well as music by Cooper Johnson and Isaac Harper.
Sunday’s headliner, Drew Baldridge, currently known for his hit “Tough People,” will perform from 9 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Also featured on Sunday will be acoustic sets by The Family Tradition Band, The Gasoline Gypsies, Shiatown, McKayla Prew and The Kay Harper Band, as well as the band Blueskye.
Vendors, food trucks, a beer tent, a cornhole contest and other lawn games, a photo contest and late-night bonfires will also be part of the festival’s activities.
The campground features three camping areas. The North Country area includes rustic sites, and is located right next to the festival area. The Main Country area includes electrical hookup. The South Country site is rustic and is the farthest walk from the stage, Keyes said.
The main entrance to The Groves of Michigan Campground is at 13500 U.S. 12, Brooklyn, just west of Michigan International Speedway. Tickets are available as one-day passes, or as a three-day package.
Information on ticket prices, campground rates and other information can be found on the festival website at countryroadsmusicfestival.com.
John David Stutzman, 79, of rural Morenci died on June 11.
He was born Jan. 4, 1946, in Wauseon, Ohio, the son of John and Irene (Fike) Stutzman. After his father’s death in 1953, his mother married Jack Raymond, who was a devoted stepfather and later a business partner. He married Nancy Ann Brewer in 1967 at First Baptist Church in Morenci, and she survives.
He graduated from Morenci High School in 1964 and earned an associates degree in agriculture from Michigan State University. He was the third generation to own Raymond & Stutzman Farms, now in its fifth generation of family ownership. He most recently attended Morenci United Methodist Church, but also had deep roots in the Morenci First Congregational Church. He served on the Morenci school board, Bank of Lenawee board of directors and Lenawee County 4-H, and was also a longtime member of the Michigan Cattlemen’s Association. In addition to his wife, survivors include three children, Timothy Stutzman (fiancée Christine Vance) of Morenci, Julie (Mark) Briese of Canton, and Peggy (Shawn) Simms of Canton; four sisters, Linda (Bill) Baker of South Carolina, Judy (Lynn) Mitchell of Tennessee, Jacquie Prielipp of Louisiana, and Kathy (Lee) Merkle-Raymond of California; nine grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a sister, Janet (Doug) Keller. — andersonfuneralservices.com
Sister Patricia M. Martin, OP, 96, formerly known as Sister John Martin, died on June 11, at the Dominican Life Center in Adrian. She was in the 78th year of her religious profession in the Adrian Dominican Congregation.
Nina Merillat
Nina Irene Merillat, 94, of Morenci died on June 19.
She was born on Sept. 17, 1930, in Delta, Ohio, to Alonzo and Flossie Slee. She married Kenneth Merillat in 1948, and he preceded her in death.
She was a graduate of Liberty Center School. She enjoyed cooking and baking for others, crafting, birds, and horses. She loved to walk and was never one to sit still. She was a person of deep faith.
Nina Merillat
Survivors include a daughter, Kathy (Aram) of Kentucky; two grandchildren; five great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; and one brother, John Slee. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Kenny Merillat, his wife Alice, and their children Kayleen and Kendra; a daughter, Karen; one granddaughter; two brothers; and two sisters.
— pursefuneralhome.com
Carl D. McLaughlin, 82, of Sand Creek died on June 26. He was born in Hillsdale on Aug. 12, 1942, to Harold E. and Dorene M. (Stanton) McLaughlin. He married Joy Mann in 1960, and she survives.
Carl McLaughlin
Donald “Moose” Lee Underwood, 80, of Blissfield, formerly of Morenci, died on June 12.
Donald Underwood
He was born on July 22, 1944, in Morenci, to William and Rose “Leona” (Rice) Underwood. He married Sally L. Mincheff in 1965 at the United Methodist Church in Morenci, and she survives. He graduated from Morenci High School in 1963. In high school he competed in basketball, football and track, was a multiple-time all-state athlete, and was named Michigan Athlete of the Year. After high school, he enrolled at Ferris State University where he played football and earned an associates degree in metallurgy. He was a U.S. Army veteran and retired from Ervin Industries after 37 years of employment.
In addition to his wife, survivors include his son, Mark (Michelle) Underwood; daughter, Amy (Nathan) Osburn; five grandchildren; two greatgrandchildren; sisters-in-law, Ruth Underwood, Donna Fiander and Nancy Rutkowski; and brothers-in-law, George Mincheff and Dave Traschke. He was preceded in death by his twin brother, David E. Underwood.
— pursefuneralhome.com
Arnett Williams Jr.
Arnett Ray Williams Jr., 78, of Wauseon died on June 1.
He was born on Dec. 6, 1946, in Beckley, West Virginia, to Arnett and Ella Williams. He married JoAnn Martin in 1970 in Morenci, and she survives.
He worked as a die setter until he retired in 2009. He loved racing and the Denver Broncos. During his retirement, he was always hunting, fishing, working in his garden, hunting mushrooms and ginseng, enjoying card nights with his family, and of course driving his wife JoAnn crazy.
In addition to his wife, survivors include his children, Donald (Belinda) Williams of Morenci, Kelly (Duane) Fletcher of Wauseon, Bobby (Angie) Williams of Adrian, and Billy (Dawn) Williams of Hudson; siblings, Greta Peterson, Sandra Borton, Doug Williams and Kenneth Williams; nine grandchildren; and 18 greatgrandchildren. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Almeda Overmyer, Alden Williams, Gary Williams, Judith Cornell, Dennis Williams and Lowell Williams; one grandson; and one greatgranddaughter. — pursefuneralhome.com
MORENCI — Douglas Gene Shields Sr., 85, of rural Morenci died on June 27.
Thomas Marshall Craig, 85, of Medina Township died on June 19.
Sr. Patricia Martin, OP
She was born in Detroit to John and Louise (Hartung) Martin. She graduated from Morenci High School, then received a bachelor’s degree in home economics from Siena Heights College (University) in Adrian and a master’s degree in nutrition from Michigan State University in East Lansing. She was also a registered dietitian with the American Dietetic Association.
She ministered for 29 years in elementary and secondary education in Ohio, Illinois and Michigan. She served the congregation for three years as a driver in Transportation Services at Maria Health Care Center in Adrian. She ministered as a dietitian for 12 years and spent 10 years as a coordinator for the aging in Jackson.
Survivors include one sister, Martha Monahan. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Edward, John and William, and sisters, Barbara Ferris, Dolores Figy, and Rosemary Case.
— adriandominicans.org
He was a member of the Model A Cars Club and served as a volunteer fire chief for Fairfield Township for 20 years. He also enjoyed fishing and the annual family vacation to Ludington. In addition to his wife, survivors include a daughter, Kay (Randy) McGraw of Adrian; two sons, Carl II (Michelle) McLaughlin of Adrian and Pat (Serena) McLaughlin of Weston; a sister, Marlene (Henry) Howard of Tecumseh; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; one great-great granddaughter; and a sister-in-law, Linda McLaughlin of Maumee, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his brother, Duane McLaughlin, and two brothers in infancy. — andersonfuneralservices.com
Jody Lynn Sands, 60, of Bryan, Ohio, formerly of Morenci, died on June 21.
She was born on April 10, 1965, in Wauseon, the daughter of Wayne Ronald and Sue Arline (Case) Double. She graduated from Archbold High School in 1983. She worked at Menards as a cashier and at the distribution center as a forklift driver.
Jody Sands
She loved watching dirt track racing, socializing with family and friends, playing spoons and cards, and being a grandmother.
Survivors include two daughters, Kendra and Cheyenne Sands; a son, Chris (Brittany) Sands; five grandchildren; a sister, Johnna Richmond; two brothers, Ron (Julie) Double and Troy (Julie) Double; and her significant other, Dale Boggemes. She was preceded in death by her brother-inlaw, Randy Richmond.
— andersonfuneralservices.com
He was born June 7, 1940, in Morenci, the son of the late Gene and Mabel (Elarton) Shields. He married Sharon Green in 1962 at St. Stephen Lutheran Church in Adrian, and she survives.
A 1958 graduate of Morenci High School, He was a lifelong Morenci-area resident. He enjoyed working around the house, going to church on Sundays, and golfing.
In addition to his wife, survivors include his three children, Douglas Shields Jr. of Napoleon, Ohio, Jeffery (Candy) Shields of Milford, and William Shields of Morenci; four grandchildren; two great-grandsons; a brother, Roger (Jane) Shields of Tallahassee, Florida; two sisters, Linda Hames of Raleigh, North Carolna, and Carol Shields of Plymouth; and two brothers-in-law, Robert (Carol) Green of Brighton and Kenneth Green of Sand Creek. He was preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Trudy Green. — brownvanhemert.com
He was born on Jan. 7, 1940, in Ecorse, the son of William Craig and Thelma (Combs) Craig. He married Wilda Fay (Duncan) Craig, and she survives.
He was a U.S. Army veteran. In 1966, he started the family farm in Medina Township. He was a member of Adrian Church of Christ and served in multiple leadership positions in the church. Besides farming, he enjoyed rabbit hunting and raising champion beagles, and was a leader in the Detroit Beagle Club.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by three sons, David (Nellie) Craig, James (Barbara) Craig and John (Molly) Craig; seven grandchildren; six greatgrandchildren; and a sister, Thelma Ann Anthony. He was preceded in death by siblings William Craig, Robert Craig, Lillian Proffit, and Mary Lou Burkey. — andersonfuneralservices.com Thomas Craig
Lenawee Independent Media considers obituaries to be part of our local news coverage. Because of this, there is no charge to publish an obituary in the Morenci Advocate, but obituaries will be edited for length and style. We generally prioritize details that will help readers determine if they knew the deceased. Whenever possible, we will provide a link to a funeral home’s website where more information may be available. Priority will be given to current and former residents of the Morenci, Fayette and Lyons areas. We make every effort to locate obituaries on our own, but if you would like to submit an obituary that you think we might miss, please email news@lenaweevoice.com
Kirk Dennis
Kirk “Woody” Dennis, 61, of Wauseon, formerly of Morenci, died on June 21. He was born on Jan. 18, 1964, in Morenci, the son of Rex Eugene and Janice Louise (Sutherland) Dennis. He married Rachel Ann Henricks in 2003 in Morenci, and she survives.
A 1982 graduate of Morenci High School, he worked as a carpenter/ superintendent for Industrial Power Systems. He was a member of the Lansing/Jackson Carpenters Union Local 1004.
Kirk Dennis
In addition to his wife, survivors include their son, Breck Dennis, and daughter, Brittany Dennis; his mother, Janice Hawkins; three sisters, Debra Eastman, Carol (Clay) Alford and Michelle Clark; father and mother-in-law, Richard and Sue Henricks; and five siblings, Walter Clark, Phillip (Tara) Henricks, Tina Henricks, Tricia (Rob) Durbin, and Shauna (Mike) Prayter. He was preceded in death by his father, Rex Dennis; stepfather, Doug Hawkins; and brother, Richard Bender. — andersonfuneralservices.com
Albert ‘Tony’ Newton
Anthony “Tony” Newton, 72, of Waldron died on June 26.
He was born on July 8, 1953, in Addison, to Albert and Barbara (Ruder) Newton. He married Beverly Kay Watkins in 1977, and she preceded him in death.
He served in the U.S. Army, then became a self-employed truck driver and worked with the family business, The Newton Boys. He and his wife drove trucks together and enjoyed traveling.
Albert ‘Tony’ Newton
Survivors include his children, Randy (Adrienna) Newton of Waldron, James (Tonya) Snyder of West Manchester, Ohio, and Candy (Ted) Walker of Brighton; three brothers, Steven Newton of Waldron, John (Cheryl) Newton of Waldron, and Alan (Patty) Newton of Osseo; three sisters, Chris Douglas of Waldron, Brenda Gallipo of Waldron, and Cindy (Mark) Bernath of West Unity, Ohio; and eight grandchildren. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his brother, Randy Newton. — andersonfuneralservices.com
Doris Louise Smith, 90, of Morenci died on April 5.
She was born on Aug. 5, 1934, in Wauseon, to H.H. and Kathryn (Vermett) Hite. She married Paul S. Smith in 1954, and he survives.
She was a 1952 graduate of Chesterfield High School and attended Huntington College in Huntington, Indiana.
Over the years she had been a babysitter for more than 100 children. She enjoyed cooking for a crowd, gardening, preserving her garden’s bounty, driving the tractor for baling, sewing, and reading.
In addition to her husband, survivors include her children, Paul Jr. (Jean), Carolyn (David), Natalie (James), Les (Jeni), Judy and Lou Ann (Dave); 13 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; her brother, Lawrence “Sam” (Wendy) Hite; and sister-in-law, Connie Hite. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Richard (Dellann) Hite, Chester Hite (in infancy), Shirley (Jim) Fasnaugh, Floyd Hite, and James Hite; and two grandsons.
— grisierfh.com
Sherman David Sparks, 86, of Chesterfield died on June 17.
He was born on June 7, 1939, to Isaac and Ella Mae (Hildreth) Sparks. He married Rita Youtzy in 1962, and she survives.
He graduated from Chesterfield High School in 1957 and served in the U.S. Army. He worked for Haas Door for many years.
In addition to his wife, survivors include one son, Todd Sparks of Chesterfield. He was preceded in death by his son, Tim, and by one brother and two sisters.
According to his wishes, there will be no services. Private inurnment will take place next to his son, Tim, at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci.
— grisierfh.com
MORENCI —Reading, music, art, games, science, snacks, prizes, and more await kids who attend Stair District Library’s free “Color Our World”-themed Summer Reading Program which runs through Aug. 6. Kids meet for an hour every other week in grade groups: preschool through kindergarten at 10:30 a.m., first through third grade at 12:30 p.m., and fourth through sixth grade at 2:30 p.m.
“Music at the Blissful” Boston musician Evan Haller kicked off the season with rollicking tunes on June 18. Other special presentations when all grade groups attend at 1 p.m. are Cup Stacking with Mr. Jim on July 2, a Toucha-Truck extravaganza on July 16, and Magician Cameron Zvara on Aug. 6.
The library has planned colorful programs on the weeks kids attend in their grade groups (June 25, July 9, and July 23, with a guest presenting to each of the grade groups on July 30). Reading log prizes are awarded for every 150 minutes kids read or are read to; kids spin the prize wheel to claim their prize. Kids who read for 750 minutes by Aug. 4 and attend at least two Summer Reading Program sessions will be invited to make a plate at the plate party on Aug. 6.
The Touch-a-Truck event on July 16 features more than two dozen trucks including a semi truck and a huge tractor from State Line Farms, a school bus from Morenci Area Schools, a stone slinger from Square 1 Poured Walls, and a variety of vehicles from the City of Morenci including a backhoe, dump truck, street sweeper, ambulance, fire truck and police car.
and under. Area kids can still join in
at the library for details or call 517-458-6510.
Hawaiian
Ice food truck will be on site and North Street Pub will be providing snack-size Billy Bones for free for the kids.
The event offers children a handson opportunity to explore a variety of colorful vehicles and to meet the people who build, protect, and serve the city of
Morenci and surrounding communities. Stair District Library is located at 228 W. Main Street in Morenci, across the street from the Rex Theatre.
