Jowett Family Funeral Home and Cremation

Jowett Family Funeral Home and Cremation Serving all of Benzie County since 2004, located in Benzonia. Specializing in Cremation and Burials. Specializing in Cremation and Burial Services.

As a family-owned funeral home, we serve every family as our own. Our arrangements and services revolve around providing the highest quality care at the most reasonable prices. Serving all of Benzie County for 10 years with locations in Frankfort and Benzonia.

Jill Marlene (Trost) Tooley, 76, passed away on March 3", 2026, after an extended illness.Jill was born on August 15, 19...
03/05/2026

Jill Marlene (Trost) Tooley, 76, passed away on March 3", 2026, after an extended illness.
Jill was born on August 15, 1949, to June (Morrill) Trost and Walter Trost in Chicago, Illinois. As a young child, she moved with her family to Benzie County where she resided for the rest of her life.

She attended Benzie Central High school, graduating class of 1967. She later earned her bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University.

In 1977 Jill married Norm Tooley. They shared a life together until his passing in 2006, Her years with Norm were especially happy. She and Norm designed and built many homes together. She often said that as soon as one house was done, and they were settled in, he was ready to start on the next project.

Jill's career spanned 37 years at the Benzie County Government Center. Although she worked in many departments within the building, most of her years were spent working in the prosecutor's office. Her job was a great joy in her life, and her co-workers became her extended family.

Jill was known for her kindness and good nature. She loved her family, friends, and especially her pets. Her warmth and smile brought joy to everyone she met.

She is survived by her sister Julie Baumchen, brother Jay (Patricia) Trost, nephews Joel (Shanna) Trost, Jared (Lauren) Trost and grand-nephews and niece, Jack, Grace, Cooper, Henry, and Carter Trost.

She was preceded in death by her husband Norm, her parents, and her pets Nestle, Hershey, Louie, and Max whom she loved as her children, and they served as her constant companions.

The family extends a special thanks to the wonderful staff at The Homesteader for their loving care and kindness during Jill's time there.
A memorial will be held at a later date, with details to be announced by Jowett Family Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Benzie Senior Resources or Benzie County Animal Shelter in her memory.

Kenneth M. Keech, Jr.March 9, 1961 – February 28, 2026Kenneth Mryle Keech Jr., of Kalkaska, passed away on February 28, ...
03/04/2026

Kenneth M. Keech, Jr.
March 9, 1961 – February 28, 2026

Kenneth Mryle Keech Jr., of Kalkaska, passed away on February 28, 2026. He was born on March 9, 1961, the beloved son of Kenneth and Patricia Keech.

Ken welcomed Jesus Christ into his heart as a young child and carried that faith with him throughout his life. He was a hard worker in every sense of the word, but even more than that, he had a love for people that was larger than life. Ken talked to everyone he met. And even after he lost his ability to speak, he never stopped communicating. With facial expressions, hand motions, and determined persistence, he always found a way to get his point across.

If you happened to catch him on a bad day, he might “equalize” his smaller stature with whatever tool was nearby — a stick, a shovel, and yes, even a 2x4 once or twice. But rest assured, forgiveness and love always followed quickly behind. That was Ken — fiery in the moment, but tender at heart.

Ken worked many jobs over the years to provide for his family, but he was most proud of his years as a mason. Laying block, brick, and stone, and pouring flat work was not easy labor, yet he gave it his all. Even after long days on the job, he would come home and head straight to his garage to tinker on whatever car or truck he had at the time, mow the lawn, or lend a hand wherever it was needed. He worked hard, and he played just as hard — riding his Harley, mudding, racing dirt bikes, and enjoying lively games of dice with friends. If you needed help, Ken found the time.

Perhaps that is why he never seemed to have much patience — he simply had too much living to do.
Ken loved his children beyond measure, no matter what they did or didn’t do. He taught them to love the same way — fiercely and without conditions. When grandchildren and great-grandchildren came along, his heart only grew larger. He was proud of each and every one of them. Even if most of them never heard the words in his own voice, they always knew Grandpa loved them. (Yes, dear, I told them.)

Ken married the love of his life on October 28, 1978. She was just two days past her eighteenth birthday, and Ken, only seventeen, needed court permission to marry. Many doubted that two kids so young could make it last. Forty-six years later, they proved everyone wrong. They were — and still are — one.

His wife shares, “I love him with all my heart. And if you see me talking to myself, please don’t think I’ve lost my mind. It’s just me talking to my husband. I’ve grown accustomed to carrying on both sides of the conversation. I love you. I love you too.”
Ken leaves behind a legacy of faith, hard work, loyalty, laughter, and unwavering love.

He is survived by his loving wife Deborah Keech; mother Patricia Mansino, his children Nathaniel Keech, Kendel (Adam) VanMeter and Joshua Keech; his grandchildren Jordan Goddard, Aubrey Keech, Aydin Keech, Hunter VanMeter, Leland Keech, Savannah VanMeter, Connor Keech and Joshua Keech; 3 great grandchildren, sisters Audrey Lamar, Patricia Hamilton (David), Mary Scarbrough (Clark) and Many Nieces and Nephews

The family will gather privately to honor and celebrate Ken’s life. Cremation will take place. Planning a celebration this summer will be announced. Arrangements with Jowett Family Funeral Home, Benzonia.

Andrew James Thompson “AJ” passed away February 12, 2026, at the age of 31.AJ was funny, loving, caring, and charming. H...
02/26/2026

Andrew James Thompson “AJ” passed away February 12, 2026, at the age of 31.

AJ was funny, loving, caring, and charming. He knew just the right words or facial expressions to make anyone laugh. He felt it was his responsibility to care for those he loved and he loved his family endlessly. AJ looked like an average guy in his hoodie and jeans, but it didn’t take long to know he was special. He always opened doors and showed courtesy. He shook hands when he was introduced to people and looked you in the eye. He did his best to make everybody’s day just a little bit better and this world will be a lot emptier without him.

He is survived by children Carter Brown, Kayleigh Thompson, and Bronson Thompson, mother Martha Thompson, father James Thompson, brothers Tyler Thompson, Brady Thompson, and James Thompson, sisters Hannah Thompson and Winter Stanley, grandparents Nancy and Tommy Driy, Earl Walker, nephews Angel Osborn and Joel Thompson, aunts Rosemary (Lester) Halibaugh, and Stacy Kimber, and special cousin Kenzie Strine.

He was preceded in death by grandmother Georgia Kimber and several aunts and uncles.

A service will be held in the spring. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia.

Jean Beverly (Gardner) Chilcote passed from this earth February 21, 2026 with her loving daughters by her side, and with...
02/26/2026

Jean Beverly (Gardner) Chilcote passed from this earth February 21, 2026 with her loving daughters by her side, and with her beloved gospel music singing her to heaven. She lived a beautiful life for 95 years and proudly called Frankfort, Michigan her home for 62 of those years.

She was born December 19, 1930, in Cadillac, Michigan to Hugh and Esther (Gilbert) Gardner, becoming the youngest of six children. When she was 10 years old, she met the love of her life LaVern "Chili" Chilcote and so began one of the greatest partnerships and love stories ever.

After high school, Jean attended St. Mary's Nursing School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Upon graduation she and Chili were married in Cadillac on October 21, 1950, and soon after Chili enlisted in the army. After leaving the army, Jean, Chili and their daughter Kristine moved to East Lansing for Chili to pursue his teaching degree at Michigan State University. Jean supported Chili through that time by working at St. Lawerence hospital in Lansing at night. Upon graduation they moved to Pellston and then Frankfort, where Jean became involved with 4-H (sewing and knitting) and MSU Extension Service for over 50 years. As a self- taught seamstress, Jean became well known in the community as someone who could sew or alter anything. She also taught herself how to decorate cakes and made wedding cakes for countless couples in the Frankfort area. Jean and Chili also ran the Benzie County Salvation Army for many years helping their neighbors anyway they could.

Jean was always willing to step in to solve a problem when needed. One time in particular, Chili came home from school and told her that the band was going to add a flag corps, he was concerned about the price of the flags, of course Jean got on that, found material and made many different flags for the flag corps.

Jean had many interests and hobbies, she greatly loved working in her yard and in particular tending to her lilies, flowers were her passion. She also enjoyed taking friends on road trips for lunch, it was a thrill for her to get her friends lost and then end up at a restaurant. She enjoyed her summers in Frankfort and her winters in Chandler, Arizona socializing with friends and family.
Her greatest love was her family, and she put them above anyone and everything. She was an incredibly loving wife and partner to Chili; selfless mother; and the best grandma anyone could ever ask for.

Jean was preceded in death by her loving husband Chili; her parents; her four sisters and one brother; her daughter Kristine; and her very best friend Collette Gillette.

Jean is survived by her daughters Heidi (Allan) Sherman and Lisa (Jim) Lundy; her son-in- law Bob Joy; her grandkids Scott (Kylee) Joy, Nikki Handley, Ben Sherman, Kyra Jean (Andrew) Trautman, Shelly Lundy, Christy (Andy) Ritola and Melissa Lundy; thirteen great- grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Lisa and Heidi would like to thank the staff at Boardman Lake Glens in Traverse City for their care and love for their mother; and her care team from Hospice of Michigan, for the kind gentle care they gave Jean and the girls.

A celebration of Jean's incredible life will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church in Frankfort, July 11, 2026, visitation at 10:00 am, service at 11:00 am, luncheon to follow.

In leu of flowers, please consider donating to Hospice of Michigan at hom.org, envelopes will also be available at the church. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia.

"She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come." Proverbs 31:25

In Loving Memory of Gail Marlene NugentMay 8, 1945 – February 24, 2026On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, Gail M. Nugent peac...
02/26/2026

In Loving Memory of Gail Marlene Nugent
May 8, 1945 – February 24, 2026
On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, Gail M. Nugent peacefully departed to rest with our Lord and to reunite with the love of her life, her beloved husband, Donald Nugent.

Born on May 8, 1945, Gail lived a life defined by devotion—devotion to her faith, her family, her students, and her community. She and Don met early in life and built a beautiful marriage rooted in love, shared purpose, and an unwavering belief in the power of education. Both proud graduates of Michigan State University, they remained deeply committed to their alma mater throughout their lives, dedicating years to supporting, donating, serving on boards, and establishing scholarships to benefit future generations of students. Education was not simply a profession for Gail—it was a calling. Over nearly 30 years of teaching, she dedicated herself especially to helping children learn to read, knowing that literacy opens the door to a lifetime of opportunity.

Gail’s commitment to education and community extended far beyond the classroom. She faithfully served as a board member of Northwestern Michigan College, was active in Big Brothers Big Sisters, and was a dedicated leader within the Republican Party.

Together, Gail and Don also built a large cherry farm—a generational family enterprise. Gail meticulously managed the books and oversaw the seasonal labor force (her grandchildren). The farm became a place where strong work ethic, laughter, and family traditions were cultivated side by side.

Above all else, Gail’s greatest joy was her family. She is lovingly survived by her children, Amy Nugent (Robert Smale) and Steve Nugent (Kerry). She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Matt Smale (Jen), Daniel Nugent (Katie), Joseph Nugent (Amber), Matt Nugent (Erica), Maisie Nugent (Gabriel Gischia), and Poom Hang. Her legacy continues through her cherished great-grandchildren: Jackson, Benjamin, Amelia, Finnegan, Harrison, Patrick, Lucy, Noah, Conor, Penny, and one precious great-grandchild on the way. She is also survived by her brother, Doug Smeltzer (Karen); her sister, Nina Smeltzer; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Gail was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Donald Nugent; her mother, Lorraine Smeltzer; and her father, Nathan Smeltzer.

Gail embraced life with enthusiasm and elegance. She found happiness on the golf course, cheering on the spartans, lively games of cards, pearls, fur coats, and a good cup of coffee (with lots of creamer). Though she traveled the world, her heart found special peace in St. Kitts, where she spent many of her final years surrounded by sunshine and serenity.

Her family takes comfort in knowing she is reunited with Don, and that her light will continue to shine brightly for generations to come.

A celebration of life service will be held this summer at Frankfort Congregational Church. Arrangements with Jowett Family Funeral Home.

Charles J Mendrea passed away February 16, 2026, at the age of 86. He was born on January 3,1940 in Garden City, Michiga...
02/24/2026

Charles J Mendrea passed away February 16, 2026, at the age of 86. He was born on January 3,1940 in Garden City, Michigan, the son of Charles and Blanche (Vanderwill) Mendrea. From his earliest years, he carried the values of dedication, strength, and loyalty that would define his life.

Charles proudly served his country of the United States Air Force from 1961 - 1965. He also took pride in his work of servicing X-Ray, CT Scans, and MRI equipment, some of these service calls introduced him to Northern Michigan. On August 1, 1970, Charles married the love of his life. Karen (Bock) Mendrea. Together they built not only their marriage, but a strong bonded family in Traverse City, MI

His greatest joy was taking care of his family including watching the Grands and being present in all their lives, from everyday activities up to the greatest achievements of his children and their families.

Charles is survived by his Wife, Karen, brother, Dave (Jeanne) Mendrea, sister Carol (Mike) Kuehnl and brother in law Bill Baumgartner, children Jonathan (Kim) Mendrea, Kimberly (Doug) Sattler, grandchildren Stephanie (Tyler) Averill, Tristin (Claira) Sattler, Travis Sattler, Steve Sattler and Beth LaCross, great-grandchildren Kaycee Sattler, Alexis Sattler, Gabrielle LaCross and Damian LaCross.

He is preceded in death by both of his parents, sister Jean Baumgartner and brother in law Don Bock.

Charles will be remembered for his strength, his steady presence, and the deep pride he had in his family. His life was one of service - to his Country, employer, and most of all his wife, children and grandchildren. He leaves behind a family who will forever carry his lessons, love and example in their lives.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00pm, Saturday May 16,2026 at Kim and Doug Sattlers 2955 Lucy Ln, Interlochen, MI 49643. Memorial contributions may be made to Kim Sattler or to Pace in memory of Charles. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia.

Matthew James Rosa, of Beulah, passed away November 16, 2025, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his family and h...
02/16/2026

Matthew James Rosa, of Beulah, passed away November 16, 2025, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his family and his beloved springer spaniel faithfully by his side. He was 47.

He was born February 6, 1978, in Frankfort, Michigan, the cherished son of Bob and Shelly Rosa.

Though Matt’s time here feels far too short, he touched many lives in quiet and meaningful ways. He had a gentle presence and was always willing to sit awhile, sharing stories and easy afternoon conversations. Some of his greatest joy came from being “Uncle Matt” to his three nephews — Drew, Ty, and Cole — who brought endless pride and happiness to his life.

Matt was a 1997 graduate of Benzie Central High School. He had a natural love for computers and electronics and was endlessly curious about how things worked. He enjoyed creative writing and had been dabbling in screenplays, even exploring the use of artificial intelligence to help spark ideas for his next story — a true reflection of his thoughtful and imaginative spirit.

He was a regular visitor at his dad’s home, where he made sure the family dogs were thoroughly spoiled with treats and plenty of belly rubs.

Matt is survived by his loving father, Bob Rosa; his brother, Brian (Andi) Rosa; his treasured nephews, Drew, Ty, and Cole Rosa; and his grandfather, Don Olney.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Shelly Rosa; his maternal grandmother, Donna Olney; and his paternal grandparents, Paul and Jean Rosa.

A private memorial service to celebrate Matt’s life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are with Jowett Family Funeral Home.

Mary A McPherson, of Benzie County, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2026.She was born on August 17, 1932, at the f...
02/16/2026

Mary A McPherson, of Benzie County, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2026.
She was born on August 17, 1932, at the family homestead on Old Mission Peninsula, Michigan, the beloved daughter of Alfred and Hulda Clark.

In 1951, Mary married Gerald McPherson, and together they raised six children, building a life rooted in family, love, and simple joys. Mary found happiness in the everyday pleasures of life. She enjoyed crocheting, tending to her gardens, searching for treasures at yard sales, collecting dolls, and spending time visiting Florida. Her hands were rarely idle, and her heart was always open to those she loved. She worked at the State Hospital in Traverse City for over 30 years.

She is survived by her children Gerald L. McPherson, Jr., Kelley C. McPherson, Kevin (Patti) McPherson, her daughters-in-law June McPherson and Bonnie McPherson, along with many cherished grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald McPherson, and her sons, Terrence, Gregory and Stuart McPherson, siblings Laura, Muriel, Doris, Betty, Helen, and Lillian.

Plans for a memorial service will be announced at a later date. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia, Mi.

ROBERT LESLIE “BOB” MILNERFebruary 8, 2026 | Age 95Robert Leslie “Bob” Milner passed away peacefully on Sunday, February...
02/16/2026

ROBERT LESLIE “BOB” MILNER
February 8, 2026 | Age 95
Robert Leslie “Bob” Milner passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at the age of 95.
Bob was the great-grandson of Scottish immigrant Robert Milner, founder of Milner Carriage Works, producers of buggies and sleighs in Southern Ontario in the 1890s. The elder Milner was recognized as one of the region’s “Captains of Industry,” and an image of his carriages was once featured on a commemorative $1.00 coin representing Chatham-Kent. https://www.ckculture.ca/museums/milner-house/
A 1948 graduate of Lincoln High School in Ferndale, MI., Bob later enlisted in the United States Army, serving from 1952 to 1954 during the Korean War. He served proudly as a sergeant in the 37th Field Artillery Battalion.
Following his military service, Bob returned to the Detroit area and founded MGA Studios Inc., a highly successful and respected graphic design firm. The studio’s distinguished client roster included leading automotive and advertising agencies such as Campbell Ewald and J. Walter Thompson, among others. Bob was admired not only for his creative vision and leadership but also for his warmth and generosity. His staff fondly recall his ready smile, his engaging personality, and his legendary weekly meetings—complete with a beverage of choice. He also served several years as president of the Artist Guild.
In the early 1970s, Bob and his beloved wife, Lindi, purchased an 1880s farmhouse in northern Michigan. “Heading up to the farm” became a cherished tradition and a defining part of their lives. The farmhouse quickly evolved into a gathering place for friends and family—a setting for laughter, spirited fun, lively conversation, and, of course, good wine. Bob was an exceptional cook; in truth, “chef” better captures his culinary talents, as his meals were nothing short of extraordinary.
In retirement in Thompsonville, Bob continued to pursue his passions for painting, hunting, and socializing. His subtle wit and dry humor forged lifelong friendships with those who appreciated his honesty, depth, and authenticity. Above all, Bob found joy in the happiness of others. He delighted in thoughtful conversation, especially when shared over a good bottle of wine. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Bob spent the final five years of his life as a resident of The Maples in Frankfort. His family extends heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff who made a meaningful difference in his comfort and well-being.
He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Lindi; his son, Gary Milner; his sons Timothy (Ana) Vander Leek and Tom (Shann) Vander Leek; his grandchildren, Kaitlin (Thomas) Fuentez, Garrett Vander Leek, and Marin Vander Leek; his great-granddaughter, Adelaide Fuentez; his brother, Ken Milner; and many extended family members, including sisters- and brothers-in-law, nieces, and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Susan Milner; his sister, Patricia Gervasi; and his brothers, Jerry Milner and Alan Milner, along with several brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.
A celebration of Bob’s life will be held in the summer of 2026.

Steve Michael England, 71, of Beulah, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on February 1, 2026.Born on January 6, 19...
02/11/2026

Steve Michael England, 71, of Beulah, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on February 1, 2026.
Born on January 6, 1955, in Jackson, Michigan, he was the beloved son of the late Rose Marie (Wilkins) and Roy England.
Steve’s life was marked by adventure and friendship. Alongside his lifelong friends, Bruce and Marsha Flack, he ventured through many different states before settling in Beulah, where he made his home for the past 18 years.
He retired from Reith-Riley Construction, formerly Kasson Sand and Gravel, where he worked as a mining plant operator. Steve was a hardworking man who took pride in providing for his family.
If you were gifted a fresh mess of bluegill and perch or a package of venison backstraps and burger, you knew you were loved. Steve enjoyed fishing, hunting, motorcycling, and simply being outdoors — appreciating the birds, deer, squirrels, opossums, and raccoons. He often joked, “I used to hunt raccoons — never thought I’d be buying cookies to feed them!”
Even in his final days, Steve’s humor and warmth never left him. He touched many hearts, including his hospice nurse, Josh. With a grin he once said, “With all the pretty nurses, I get a male!” But Josh proved to be the perfect fit — a true blessing and, as Steve’s family believes, a God-sent angel.
Steve is survived by his beloved wife, Karyl; his children, Steve (Melissa) St. Charles, Lisa (Josh) Overholt, Stephanie (Brandon) Neitzke, Heather, Travis, Kristy (Brian), Jimmy John (Ginger), and Paul; and his cherished grandchildren, Kaylee, Kaitlyn, Tyler, Abigail, Alyea, Oliver, Ella, Rashelle, Brooke, and Mason. He is also survived by his sisters, Dawn (Duane) Brown and Tammy (Scott) Kirby, along with many great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
No services are planned at this time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, as this would have been Steve’s wish.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Jowett Family Funeral Home.

Timothy Robert Klein, age 76, passed away on February 5, 2026. Tim’s life was defined by connection — his greatest purpo...
02/09/2026

Timothy Robert Klein, age 76, passed away on February 5, 2026. Tim’s life was defined by connection — his greatest purpose was building meaningful relationships with people. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, teacher, athlete and most knew him as “Coach”. Above all, he was a proud father and grandfather, finding his greatest joy in his family.

Tim is survived by his loving wife, Kateri; his three children, Derek (Irma Colunga), Kyle (Sarah), and Kateri (Andrew) Schutt; and his “Great Eight” beloved grandchildren — Caroline, Carson, Michael, Alex, Allison, Anna Jane, Claire, and Gretchen — who were a constant source of pride and happiness. He is also survived by his sisters, Christine (Jim) Vella and Phyllis (Jim) Okun, as well as numerous sisters- and brothers-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

Tim was an accomplished athlete from a young age, he was an All-State performer in football, basketball, and baseball at Niles High School. He went on to play football and baseball at Western Michigan University, where his passion for sports deepened and naturally led him into a lifelong career in education and coaching at Portage Central High School, Frankfort High School, and Roscommon High School. Over the course of his career, Tim coached baseball, basketball, football, skiing, tennis, and track & field. Over the course of his coaching journey, Tim was inducted into the Michigan High School Coaches Hall of Fame for both football and baseball. Highlights of Tim’s coaching career included having his daughter in track and advancing to the football state championship game five times including winning twice while coaching his boys. He developed many close relationships with colleagues around the State of Michigan. It led to him continuing coaching football in his retirement at Saginaw Heritage, Elk Rapids, and Onekama. Tim always loved spending time with former students and players, reliving memories and sharing stories from years past.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Bette Klein, his daughter-in-law Christina Klein, and nephews Christopher Houk and Scott Lagoni.

His family will remember him for his huge smile and his gift of storytelling. His life was filled with love, laughter, football, golf, and memorable travels, especially cherished trips to Hawaii, Florida, Orange Beach, and Dallas. No one was ever a stranger to Tim.

In Memoriam, donations may be made to Lockhart Field by making checks payable to City of Frankfort, PO Box 351, Frankfort MI 49635, designate Lockhart Field- in memory of Tim Klein.

There will be a celebration of life in Frankfort on June 27th. The place and time will be determined at a later date. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home of Benzonia.

Daniel Edwin Barboza, of Benzonia, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026, at the age of 82.Dan was born on October ...
02/06/2026

Daniel Edwin Barboza, of Benzonia, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2026, at the age of 82.
Dan was born on October 2, 1943, in Falmouth, Massachusetts, the beloved son of Andrew and Dorothy (Albert) Barboza. He grew up on Cape Cod, where he developed the work ethic, discipline, and sense of service that would define his life.
He proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1969, serving as a forward observer. Following his military service, Dan dedicated himself to law enforcement, beginning a long and respected career with the Washington Metropolitan Police Department. From May 1969 through September 1994, he served as a detective, earning the trust of colleagues and the community through integrity, vigilance, and compassion.
After relocating to Michigan, Dan continued to serve in a variety of professional roles. He worked with Rupp and Keen Real Estate from 1994 to 2000, as well as with the Grand Traverse Band, where he worked in security, surveillance and background investigations, ultimately holding the rank of Captain from 2009 until his retirement in September 2013.
On May 27, 1990, Dan married Kathleen A. Grigg. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and service, raising two sons Michael and Timothy. Dan was also the father of Daniel Barboza, whom he loved dearly.
Ministry was a deep calling for Dan. He was actively involved in numerous outreach efforts, including Rehab Street Ministry in Washington, D.C.; homeless shelters; Kyrex Prison Ministry in Kingsley; jail ministries in Leelanau, Grand Traverse, and Benzie counties; drug and alcohol recovery programs; food pantry support; and prayer ministries for the persecuted church and incarcerated individuals. Dan quietly lived his faith through action, always willing to serve those in need.
Dan also gave generously of his time to youth athletics as a board member, assistant, and backup coach for the Traverse City Bulldogs Athletic Association. He found joy in the simple routines of home—mowing the lawn, snow blowing—and was a loyal fan of NFL football, especially the New England Patriots and Washington Redskins.
Dan is survived by his devoted wife, Kathleen; his sons Daniel Barboza, Michael Barboza and Timothy (Hannah) Barboza; his beloved grandchildren Amalia and Vivienne Barboza, Barrett, Jack, and Thayer Barboza. He is also survived by his brother Andrew (Sohee) Barboza and sisters Karen (Carl) Galagher and Janice (Larry) Fernandez.
A memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 8, at Fresh Winds Christian Church, with Pastor Chuck Towersey officiating.
Those wishing to honor Dan’s memory may consider a contribution to one of the following ministries close to his heart: Fresh Winds Community Food Pantry, 18201 Honor Highway, Interlochen, MI 49643, Thrive Medical Clinic, 121 S. Garfield Ave, Ste C, Traverse City, 49686, Freedom Builders, PO BOX 309 Traverse City, MI 49685 or the Hope House of Northwest Michigan, PO BOX 205 Honor MI 49640. Arrangements with Jowett Family Funeral Home.

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7223 South Street
Benzonia, MI
49616

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