Ransford Funeral Home - Caro

12/27/2025

Cathern “Cathy” Ann (Wright) Cabala, 80, of Caro passed at her home with her loved ones by her side on Thursday, December 25, 2025. Cathy was born on June 13, 1945, in Caro to the late Claude and Margaret (Montgomery) Wright. Growing up, she attended the Orr-Moore Country School and created many beloved friendships; she attended reunions with her classmates for many years. Cathy worked in home healthcare after school before joining her calling serving her community through Kids Closet Resale Store which she ran with her family until recently. After a ten year-long relationship, she married John Cabala on August 15, 1998, and the couple would share over 27 years of marriage together. He survives her. Cathy was very active in her community. She volunteered for Big Brothers Big Sisters and Relay-for-Life and was the 2014 recipient of the Caro Chamber of Commerce Merit Award. Cathy was a devout member of Deford Community Church where she taught Sunday School in her earlier years. A giver at heart, Cathy is remembered as a selfless and loving woman who gave generously of her time and resources to anyone in need. She treasured the time she spent with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren, and leaves behind a legacy that is passed on through the hearts of all those whose lives she touched.

Cathy is survived by her husband, John Cabala; children, Kevin (Lori) Wright, Michael (Suzanne) Burkell, Cheryl (Phil) Wilson, and Marcie (Jeff) Withers; grandchildren, Justin (Kayla) Wright, Kaddin Wright, Santanna Wright, Timmy (Amanda) Ruthenberg, Ryan (Tonya) Burkell, Cory (Sadie) Young, Eric Wilson, Jade Wilson, Anesa (Kenneth) Trisch, Taylor (Jason) Foley, Brooke (Brad) Leach, and Izabelle Withers; many cherished great grandchildren; and siblings, Larry (Carol) Shaver, Ray (Ethel) Shaver, Shelby Larson, Donna Campbell and Calvin (Carol) Wright; as well as many nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends.

Cathy was preceded in death by her brother-in-law Ernest Campbell.

The family would like to give a special thanks to her hospice nurse Autumn Helland and hospice aide Abbey Otis for their loving care of Cathy.

A funeral service for Cathy will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Deford Community Church, 1392 N Kingston Rd, Deford, MI, Pastor David Cooper presiding. The family will be present to greet visitors from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 2 at Ransford Funeral Home – Caro, 205 W. Sherman St, Caro, and from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Burial will follow at Ellington Township Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the family c/o John Cabala.

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12/24/2025

Mary Alice (Humm) Pike of Fairgrove, age 90, passed away peacefully in her home on Monday, December 22, 2025 with her family by her side. She was born November 4, 1935 in Fairgrove, the daughter of the late Rudolph and Mary (Davison) Humm. Mary Alice was a proud graduate of Fairgrove High School, Class of 1953. It was during her high school years that she met the love of her life, Norman Pike. The two were united in marriage on November 10, 1956, at Fairgrove Presbyterian Church. Their marriage was blessed with more than fifty years together, three children, and a lifetime of cherished memories. Norman preceded her in death on December 27, 2006.
Mary Alice was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and homemaker who found great joy in caring for her family. She was always making the most delicious meals, baking and sewing beautiful garments, making many of the family’s clothes. Her chocolate chip cookies, cinnamon rolls, and famous macaroni and cheese were family favorites and a true expression of her love. Mary Alice was known in the community for celebrating birthdays and you could always count on her cinnamon rolls. She took great pride in the family farm, always bringing out meals and staying closely connected to daily life on the farm.
A lifelong member of Fairgrove Presbyterian Church, Mary Alice was actively involved in the United Presbyterian Women’s Organization and the Forget-Me-Nots. She sang in both church and community choirs and previously served as a church trustee. A devout Christian, Mary Alice was a woman of deep and unwavering faith, a true pillar within her church and community.
Mary Alice will be forever remembered for her warm smile, her selfless nature, and her independence. She continued to live in her own home and care for herself, doing things on her own, right up until a week before her passing. Mary Alice remained determined and capable, never wanting to inconvenience anyone or interrupt farming or the plans of those she loved. She lived with grace, kindness, and quiet strength, never wanting to be a burden. Her legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to live on in all who knew her.
Mary Alice leaves to cherish her memory, her children, Robert (Michelle) Pike of Fairgrove, Barbara Hanley of Troy, and Brian (Heidi Nixon) Pike of Fairgrove, grandchildren, Nathan (Cara) Pike, Megan (Keith) Edwards, and Lauren Hanley; great-grandchildren, Hoyt Pike, Breslin Pike, and Laci Pike; many nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband and parents, Mary Alice was preceded in death by her grandson, Tyler Hanley and siblings, Robert, Maxine, Marion, Harold, Hazel, Dorothy, and Roma Lee.
Mary Alice’s funeral service will be on Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Fairgrove Presbyterian Church with the burial following at Brookside Cemetery. The family will be present to receive visitors on Monday, December 29, 2025 at the Ransford Funeral Home in Caro from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and again at church on Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of her service. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Wellspring Hospice for their excellent care and compassion they gave Mary Alice. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to Fairgrove Presbyterian Church, Bay Shore Camp, or Forget-Me-Nots.

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12/24/2025

Gerald “Jerry” Wayne Walker of Caro, age 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 20, 2025 at Covenant Cooper in Saginaw. He was born May 30, 1938 in Dearborn, Michigan, the son of the late Morrie and Viola (King) Walker. Jerry graduated from high school and went on to serve in the U.S. Army. He worked at the family gas station in town and at Steering Gear in Saginaw before opening his own store, Jerry’s M-46 Sports Shop. Jerry owned and operated the store for several years before taking a supervisor position at Tractor Supply and then the post office in Saginaw where he retired as a supervisor.

Jerry loved bowling and proudly earned several 300 rings. He was often found watching NASCAR, football, and the Tigers. He was a member of both the Caro Moose Lodge and the Vassar Eagles. Jerry enjoyed riding his Boss Hog Trike motorcycle and taking trips all over, frequently trailering it down to Florida. He also loved RV camping, hunting, fishing, and boating in Caseville. Jerry deeply loved his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and truly cherished spending time with them. He enjoyed sharing a beer with friends, and his practical jokes and infectious, huge grin made him loved by all who knew him.

Jerry leaves to cherish his memory, his children, Debra (Rick) Lipan and Wayne Walker; Wayne’s friend, Darryl Froehlich; sons-in-law, Kim Kitchen and Bob Gabler; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; siblings, Larry Walker and Connie Sue (Clyde) Romain; several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his children, Denise Lung Kitchen, Brad Walker, and Deanna Lung Gabler; the mother of his children, Janet Walker; and brother, Donald Walker.

In keeping with Jerry’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life is being planned for a later date.

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12/23/2025

A first-ever New Year’s tradition for Caro!

This New Year’s Eve, our sister company, Ransford-Wasik is hosting the inaugural Caro Beet Drop, a fun twist on the classic ball drop that celebrates one of the industries that helped shape our community: sugar beets.

With live music, free food & drinks, kid-friendly activities, and a giant beet dropping at midnight, it’s a night for everyone to enjoy. Completely free and open to the community. Let’s start a new Caro tradition together!

12/23/2025

Bernice “Bernie” Audrey Schrader (Chambers), 94, of Medford, Wisconsin, formerly of Caro, Michigan, passed away on Sunday, December 21, 2025, in Medford, Wisconsin. She was born June 6, 1931, in Caro, to the late John and Lucille (Wagner) Chambers and was a 1949 graduate of Caro High School. Bernie raised four beautiful children then went to work as a secretary for Vassar Schools. She married Robert Schrader on March 31, 1950, and the couple spent over 65 years together. He preceded her in death on March 6, 2016. In her free time, Bernie was a phenomenal bowler and was inducted into the Bowler’s Hall of Fame. She found joy in any season, snowshoeing and snowmobiling the winter trails near the family cottage, hunting and fishing in the woods of Michigan, and motorcycling all over the Thumb with Robert. The pair also spent over 20 years in Tucson, Arizona. Bernie liked Bingo and Euchre, playing hide and seek with her grandkids, and flying out of the Tuscola Area Airport with Robert. She was also a faithful and lifelong member of Caro United Methodist Church.

Bernie is survived by her beloved children and their spouses, Robert, Jr. and Janice Schrader of Bay City, Sherrie and Richard Harrington of Caro, Tamera Rayl of Medford, Wisconsin, and Patricia and Mark Henley, of Bryan, Texas; sister, Harriet Wurtz; and brother, Louis and Molly Chambers. She was also survived by several grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other family members.

Bernie was preceded in death by sister, Beatrice Ewald; and brother-in-law William Wurtz.

A funeral service for Bernie will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at Ransford Funeral Home – Caro, 205 W. Sherman St., Caro, Michigan, Rev. Michele Hile officiation. Visitation will be at the funeral home on Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial is to follow at Indianfields Township Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

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12/21/2025

Jean Ann “Jeanne” Epskamp of Caro, age 82, passed away on Friday, December 19, 2025 at Tuscola County Medical Care Community with her family by her side. She was born August 1, 1943 in Caro, the daughter of the late John and Bonnie (Spaulding) Flikkie. Jeanne graduated from Caro High School and went on to work at the Caro Center as a rehabilitation aide. She worked with her friend and business partner, Jan, cleaning the barbershop in town. Jeanne was known for her love of reading, especially Debbie Macomber and the obituaries. She loved flowers, her pets, and wildlife, feeding them any chance she could. Jeanne’s love, warmth, and smile will be missed dearly.
Jeanne leaves to cherish her memory, her children, Laurie Fletcher, Karen (Rob) Goodro, Rhonda Wilcox, Armond (Michele) Curtis, Daniel (Nora) Austin, and daughter-in-law, Debbie Snyder; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; siblings, Mary Conaton, Connie (Jerry) Stover, John (Terrie) Flikkie, Jeff (Gina) Flikkie, Mark (Deb) Flikkie, and Paula (Steve) Bergh; best friend, Donna Wright; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to her parents, Jeanne was preceded in death by her sons, Randy Snyder and Scott Snyder and her husband, Jamie Epskamp.
Jeanne’s graveside funeral service will be on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at the Ellington Twp. Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the American Stroke Foundation.

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12/19/2025

Lois Grace (Layer) Goss was promoted to Heaven’s Choir on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. Born on June 27, 1946, Lois grew up in Saginaw, Michigan. She spent the last 30 years of her life enjoying the “country life” on Murphy Lake in Millington.
A longtime member of Fostoria Baptist Church, Lois was known for her faithful prayers, joyful singing, and the warm smile she shared with anyone who needed it. She loved playing old hymns on the piano and cherished walking hand in hand with her lifelong love and devoted husband, Wayne—affectionately known as “Wayner.”
Lois is survived by her beloved husband, Wayne R. Goss, to whom she was married for nearly 60 years; her three sons, John (Christine) Goss, Troy (Jennifer) Goss, and David (Lisa) Goss; her grandchildren, Dillon Goss, Lainey (Archer) Kreft, Sierra Goss, Teegan Goss, Haley (Michael) Miller, Jalyn Saxton, Ashlyn Saxton, Gabrielle (Zach) Ramirez, McKenzie (Jake) Lopez, and Tanner Goss; and her great-grandchildren, Kinley Ramirez, Evan Kreft, Owen Kreft, Ella Lopez, Isla Miller, and Michael Miller Jr. She is also survived by her brother David (Kathy) Layer, her sister Rachel (Joe) Orange, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends whom she loved deeply.
Lois was preceded in death by her parents, Maurice and Cora Layer; her brother, Eldon Layer; and her sister, Janet Peters.
Lois would want everyone still walking this side of Heaven to know that Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Him. He was, and always will be, her all.
A private interment for immediate family will be held December 22, 2025 at Roselawn Memorial Gardens and Mausoleum, Saginaw, Michigan.

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12/18/2025

Lorraine Ann Hergenreder (Stoss), age 89, of Caro, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2025, at her son’s home in Kawkawlin, surrounded and comforted by her family, both in person and virtually. Lorraine lived a life rooted in faith, love, and service, and she now rests in the peace and promise of eternal life through her Lord and Savior.

Lorraine was born on October 13, 1936, to Stanley and Mary (Warda) Stoss. She was raised on a farm, where she learned the values of hard work, strength, and perseverance that stayed with her throughout her life. Lorraine graduated from Caro High School with the class of 1954. On June 2,1956, she was united in marriage to the love of her life, James Hergenreder. Together, Lorraine and Jim shared sixty-six happy years of marriage, building a home and life centered on family, faith, and devotion to one another. Lorraine enjoyed and was always very grateful for all the special family gatherings for holidays and special events; loving to watch her family grow.

Lorraine and Jim loved the family and life they built together. They enjoyed traveling through many states and making memories along the way. Their wedding song, “Save the Last Dance for Me,” always held a special place in their hearts. Summers were often spent picking blueberries together at their cherished blueberry patch. Lorraine also enjoyed playing cards with special friends, Ray and Ceal, who preceded her in death.

Lorraine was a lifelong and faithful member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Caro. Her faith guided every season of her life. She especially loved being part of the quilters’ group and the bell choir, finding joy and fellowship in serving her church community.

Lorraine was employed for many years at the Caro Center, where she worked first as a seamstress and then as a Certified Nursing Attendant, providing compassionate and dignified care to those entrusted to her. She was a very talented and skilled seamstress, sharing her gift both professionally and personally. Lorraine generously served her community as a 4H Leader and judge at the county fair, volunteered at the Bethesda Thrift Shop, and faithfully gave her time wherever she was needed. Her faith also led her on a mission trip to Mexico. In addition, she served her community as Treasurer of Wells Township for eight years.

Lorraine was a strong, hardworking woman with a gracious spirit and a warm presence. She loved baking cookies, listening to polka music, and sharing her beautiful smile with everyone she met. She was witty and funny, a wonderful listener, and someone people naturally felt comfortable talking with. Lorraine was courageous, generous, and deeply kind. And yet, despite her kindness, when Lorraine thought you might be up to no good, she was known to give the unmistakable crooked finger of disapproval, a gentle but clear reminder to straighten up and do the right thing. She was a loving mother and grandmother who never hesitated to stand up for what was right.

In her later years, Lorraine remained strong and determined, always striving to stay busy, work hard, do her exercises, and be the best she could be. She enjoyed listening to audiobooks, reading daily devotions and her prayer book, and spending time with the dogs. She especially cherished chatting for hours with her caregiver Patty, whose companionship and care meant so much to her. The family extends special thanks to Patty and to all of Lorraine’s loving caregivers and friends, including but not limited to Ann, Karen, Grace, Denise, and Madison.

Lorraine was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her three children, Cindy (James) Hitchcock of Columbiaville, Lee (Bonnie) Hergenreder of Caro, and Dan (Maureen) Hergenreder of Kawkawlin; five grandchildren, Becky (Paul) Tiret, Ryan (Amy) Thompson, Dan (Jacqueline) Hergenreder, Amanda Hergenreder, and Cody Hergenreder; six great-grandchildren, Liam, Owen, Avery, Ezra, Ian, and Dan III; and one sister, Florence Christiansen of Oregon; along with many extended family members and dear friends. Lorraine was preceded in death by her parents, Stanley and Mary Stoss; her beloved husband, James Hergenreder; her son, Dale Hergenreder; brother-in-law, Dale Christiansen. She now joins them in eternal peace.

Lorraine’s funeral service will be on Monday, December 22, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Caro with Rev. Richard L. Boshoven officiating. A meal will follow and then burial will take place at East Dayton Cemetery. The family will be present to receive visitors on Sunday, December 21, 2025 from 12:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the Ransford Funeral Home in Caro and again on Monday at church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of her service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to St. Paul Lutheran Church in Caro.

The family also wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to Residential Hospice, nurse Lisa, Taylor, and Chaplain Dan for their compassionate care, comfort, and support provided to Lorraine and her family during her final days.

Lorraine will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for her faith, strength, kindness, and unwavering love for her family.

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12/16/2025

Bonnie Lee Frank of Cass City, age 62, went to be with the Lord on December 10, 2025, at Henry Ford Health in Detroit. She was born on October 15, 1963, in Bay City, to the late Scotty Wynn and Dorothy Finkbeiner. Bonnie graduated from Owengage High School with the Class of 1981. Her early years were spent enjoying time with her friends and relatives. After graduating, she married and was blessed with the birth of her two children and later earned a nursing degree. She became an AFC nurse and worked for Willow Tree Haven. Bonnie was strong in her faith and always the light in the room.

She will be remembered as a kind and loving woman with a sharp sense of humor. She cared deeply for her family and found joy in the simple things, especially animals and nature. She will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Bonnie leaves to cherish her memory, children; Danielle Frank and Derek Frank; sister, Carole Winter; and brother, Bill Lamirande.

In addition to her parents Bonnie was preceded in death by her sister Connie Maxson and brother-in-law Loren Winter.

In accordance with Bonnie’s wishes, cremation is to take place. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial to the wishes of the family, c/o Danielle Frank 205 West Sherman Street, Caro, MI 48723.e

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12/16/2025

Bill H. Thompson of Waterford, age 66, passed away Thursday, December 4, 2025 at home, surrounded by his loving wife, Claudette; and three of his children; William, Danielle, and Jeremy.

Bill was born June 16, 1959 in Flint, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Thompson. He grew up in Flint and spent his early adulthood in the Wellston, Michigan area, where he met the Fairbanks brothers, Jeff (Val) and Mark, and shared many wild and crazy times. After several adventures, Bill moved to Hale, Michigan.

While working in Oscoda at ITT Automotive, Bill met Claudette, the love of his life and wife of thirty years. After they were married, they made their home in Mikado, where they built a life together.

Bill’s greatest joys included hunting, fishing, gardening and canning, planting flowers and trees, and being outdoors enjoying nature. He especially loved camping, grilling, and smoking food.

He will be remembered for his wit and sense of humor, his strong work ethic, and his willingness to help anyone whenever possible. Bill deeply loved his wife and children and was known for his memorable baby blue eyes and distinct chin dimple. He will be missed very much.

Bill was survived by his wife of thirty years, Claudette; seven children, Devin, William (Jesse), Amanda (Dan), Danielle, Jeremy (Amber), Heather, and Adam; twelve grandchildren, Audreaunna, Ashley (Justice), Mahalia, Daniel, Ryan, Haven, Uriah, Camden, Gracie, Dalton, RJ, and Marlissa; and six great-grandchildren, Carmynn, Evelynn, Lucas, Ilona, Ophelia, and Estelle. He was preceded in death by his father, Harvey; step- father, James; and siblings, Melissa and Jim.

A Celebration of Life cookout with camping, bonfires, and time together in Bill’s memory is being planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Claudette Thompson

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12/15/2025

Josephine Payne of Caro, age 88, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at Vassar Comfort Care, surrounded by her family. She was born on October 2, 1937, in San Antonio, Texas, to the late Reymundo and Esther (Varela) Rendon. Josephine moved to Caro at a young age and graduated from Caro High School with the Class of 1956. At a dance in Caro, Josephine met Ramon Romain, Sr., the love of her early life. The two were united in marriage on December 26, 1956, and shared twenty-five years together. Their marriage was blessed with four wonderful children and many cherished memories before Ramon’s passing on December 6, 1981. Josephine dedicated over fifteen years to Midwest Rotary in the printing department. She was a faithful and devoted parishioner of St. Christopher Parish and took great pride in her strong Catholic faith. She was also deeply proud of her Mexican heritage and never missed an opportunity to share that pride, especially when it came to her love of traditional foods.

Love found Josephine again when she married Wayne Payne on January 11, 1985. Together, they shared more than forty years of marriage filled with laughter, companionship, and simple joys, including their well-loved trips to the Wal-Mart parking lot just to people-watch. Josephine enjoyed gardening, putting together puzzles, shopping, and mowing the lawn. Above all, she treasured time spent with her family, whether camping, playing euchre, or simply visiting. Her family could always count on a box of Thin Mints at Christmas, a tradition that became one of her many signatures. Josephine greatly enjoyed watching classic Western movies and listening to country music, especially her favorite, Daniel O’Donnell. Josephine will be remembered for her faith, her love of family, her warm sense of humor, and the simple, meaningful ways she made life brighter for those around her.

Josephine leaves to cherish her memory, her children, Ramon (Donna) Romain, Jr., Cindy (Mark) Partlo, Randy (Cathy) Romain, and Dave (Tina) Romain; grandchildren, Heather Romain, Stephanie Romain, Ryan Romain, Jarred Romain, Shawn (Tori) Partlo, Jeff (Kelsey) Romain, Kendal (Marcus) Edmonson, and Owen Romain; several great-grandchildren; siblings, Alice Majask, Nancy Bennett, Ray Rendon, Joann Broadworth, and Guadalupe (Doug) Hall; several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husbands, Josephine was preceded in death by her grandson, Brent Romain in 2004.

Josephine’s funeral service will be on Friday, December 19, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Christopher Parish, Sacred Heart Church in Caro. Rev. Isaac Madanu will officiate with the burial following at Sacred Heart Cemetery. Josephine’s family will be present to receive visitors on Thursday, December 18, 2025 at the Ransford Funeral Home in Caro from 4:00 p.m. until the time of the Rosary at 7:30 p.m. and again at the church on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to Cass River Pet Friendz.

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12/13/2025

George Ronald Pattullo, age 85, of Caro, Michigan, passed away surrounded by his family on Friday, December 12, 2025. He was born on April 10, 1940, in Deckerville, Michigan, the son of the late Ronald and Gladys (Abbott) Pattullo.

George graduated early from Deckerville High School in 1957 and went on to earn his Masters degree from Michigan State University. On June 11, 1960, he married his high school sweetheart, Betty (Bungart) Pattullo, with whom he shared 65 wonderful years.
George began his teaching career in Almont, MI. before moving to Caro in 1965. In 1972, George founded Pattullo and Sons Sports, a business he successfully operated for 45 years.

George is survived by his beloved wife, Betty; children, Peter (Virginia) Pattullo, Mike (Carmell) Pattullo, and Julianne (Cory) MacLennan; ten grandchildren, Denell Sharp, Bryon (Lauren) Pattullo, Nick (Alicia) Pattullo, Ashley (Nick) Turner, Tyler (Jean) Pattullo, Sarah (Ben) Menge, Erin Pattullo, Matthew Pattullo, Jazlyn Pattullo, and Skylar MacLennan; and eleven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Garth (Ann) Pattullo. George was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Joyce VanEtten and Grant Pattullo.

George’s life was defined by his passion for education, family, and the sport of snowmobiling. Beginning in 1965, he became deeply involved in snowmobiling as a competitor, organizer, innovator, and adventurer. Over 12 years of racing, he won multiple Michigan State Championships and the first Triple Crown in 1972. George was involved very early in the Safety aspect of Snowmobiling. He worked with Michigan State University 4H and DNR leadership to develop the first snowmobile safety laws and training manual for the state of Michigan. He has also taught numerous snowmobile safety classes throughout the years. He served as President of the Michigan International Snowmobile Association from 1973 to 1976. George was awarded 2 US patents for snowmobile related inventions.

Beyond competition, George and Betty organized annual snowmobile adventures spanning 1,500–2,000 miles, raising money for the American Cancer Society and other charities. Their efforts even supported an Olympic wrestler in the 2000 Sydney Games. In 2010, George helped launch MichCanSka, leading a 4,000-mile snowmobile trek from Michigan to Alaska to raise funds for diabetes research.

George will be remembered for his faith in God, adventurous spirit, unwavering dedication to family, and his lifelong commitment to making a difference in his community and beyond.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at a later date. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Alzheimer’s Association and Colwood Church of Caro.

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