Ransford Funeral Home - Caro

02/25/2026

Patricia Eileen Starkey

Patricia Eileen (Specht) Starkey of Akron, age 79, passed away peacefully and surrounded by love on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at Heritage Hill Assisted Living and Memory Care. Patricia was born October 2, 1946 in Saginaw, the daughter of the late Franklin H. and Viola (Graf) Specht. She enjoyed growing up on Malzahn Street in Saginaw. She graduated from Arthur Hill High School with the Class of 1964 and went on to attend Northwood Institute (now Northwood University).

On April 8, 1972, she married Thomas W. Starkey, and together they made their home in Akron, where Patricia lived for the remainder of her life. She worked as a secretary at Spicer Engineering before dedicating herself to raising her family as a homemaker. Later, she served as church secretary for over a decade at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church in Fairgrove.

Patricia’s greatest joy was her family. While she loved all of her grandchildren deeply, she shared a particularly close bond with her oldest grandson, Thomas, and treasured the time they spent together and the special memories they made as he was growing up.

She also shared an especially close relationship with her sister, Jacquie. One of her most cherished memories was a tour of Europe they were blessed to take together, shortly before Jacquie’s life was tragically cut short in an automobile accident in 1971 at the age of 19.

Her life centered around her faith, her family, and her church community. Patricia had a deep love for music, singing in the church choir and leading the children’s choir for many years. She founded and directed the children’s handbell choir, as well as directing the annual children’s Christmas program for many years. She also directed Christian musical productions at Grace, including The Music Machine and Baa Baa Bethlehem, bringing together congregation members of all ages to share the message of God’s love and faithfulness.

Patricia leaves to cherish her memory, her children, Melissa (Jonathan) Keller, Julie (Jerry) Hoefling, and Michael (Laura) Starkey; former son-in-law, Dane Couture; and her grandchildren, Thomas Couture, and Julia, Olivia, and Joshua Hargash; and her aunt, Marie Specht. In addition to her husband and parents, Patricia was preceded in death by her stepmother, Cornelia (Schrotenboer) Specht; sister, Jacqueline Marie Specht; father-in-law, John F. Starkey; mother-in-law, Marjorie (Hover) Starkey; and numerous beloved aunts and uncles.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church in Fairgrove with Rev. Joshua Haller officiating. Burial will take place at Demorest Cemetery in Akron following the service. Patricia’s family will be present to receive friends at the church on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church in Fairgrove, or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

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02/24/2026

David William Preston

It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our dear cousin and friend, David William Preston. He passed away unexpectedly and peacefully on February 22, 2026, while vacationing in Florida with his closest friend, Joe Pape. A Celebration of Life at Mayville Hilltop Community Church is being planned and details will be announced in the coming weeks.

A full obituary will also be published when it becomes available.

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02/24/2026

Adam Dwayne Swinney

Adam Dwayne Swinney, age 36, passed away at his home on Saturday, February 21, 2026. Adam was born October 21, 1989 in Flint and graduated from Carman-Ainsworth High School with the class of 2007. He had a nearly limitless work ethic and held a variety of jobs after high school, working in the restaurant business and for a commercial pool company. Most recently, he was employed by Fessler & Bowman as a journeyman concrete finisher handling large commercial pours. Adam never complained about the hard work that needed to be done and could be counted on to lift the morale of his entire team daily, with tie dye shirts, fist bumps, and passing out candy. In his younger years, he stepped into the ring as professional wrestler “Evan Epic,” bringing the same bold spirit and larger-than-life presence that defined him throughout his life.

During the eight and a half years with his soulmate Sarah- six of them in marriage- she and Adam filled their life together with adventure. From scuba diving and skiing, to skydiving, paddle boarding, and dancing the night away at festivals. Adam embraced every experience with bold enthusiasm. He loved being outside, in nature, on the water, and under open skies. He was happiest when he was exploring and fully alive in the moment. He never had animals growing up and didn’t think he wanted any, but Sarah kept bringing them home. Before he knew it, he loved them just as much as she did (he was even coming around to the chickens…working on getting them to eat out of his hand).

He was endlessly generous, always ready to give his time, energy, or last dollar to someone in need. Adam was a friend to so many people from all walks of life, with a warmth and openness that drew others in effortlessly. He was the life of every gathering and could out-party just about anyone, quick with a laugh, a story, and a way of making everyone feel welcome. Adam always cared more about others than he ever did about himself, and that kindness is how so many will remember him- and of course for his memorable hair and interesting fashion journey.

Adam is survived by his wife, Sarah, and their child due in July; son, Jackson; brother, Kyle Swinney; half-sister; Nina Broughton; aunt and uncle, Sandy & John; cousins, Jonathan and Taylor; father- and mother-in-law, Brian and Carleen Bodary; best friends, Maxx and Andrea; and many, many other friends. Adam was preceded in death by his goat, Sheila; his cat, Turkey; parents, grandparents, and uncle, Mike.

Adam hoped to have a Viking funeral, but in the interest of expediency and fire safety, his family was forced to choose cremation instead. A celebration of his life will be on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. at the Root Wellness Center in Caro, 131 North State Street, Caro, MI 48723 with visiting starting at 3:00 p.m. Friends and family are invited to come, bring a dish to pass, and share the stories of what made Adam special to you. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider a contribution to his family, c/o Sarah Swinney, 205 West Sherman Street, Caro, MI 48723.

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02/23/2026

Alan R. Rae

Alan R. Rae of Caro, age 72, passed away on Monday, February 23, 2026 at Heritage Hill Assisted Living and Memory Care in Caro. Al was born October 6, 1953 in Bay City, the son of the late Robert K. & Edith Irene (Butler) Rae. He was a lifelong area resident and graduated from Akron-Fairgrove High School with the class of 1971. He continued his studies at Delta College and later Wayne State University where he studied mortuary science. Following his graduation, Al took a position with the Collon Funeral Home as a funeral associate and emergency medical technician for their ambulance service. He was united in marriage with the love of his life, the former Dale LaPratt, on February 3, 1979. Later that year, and at Dale’s urging, Al began a more joyous career with better hours at Howard Bell Pontiac, Buick, GMC dealership in Caro, later Bell Wasik, as a sales associate in a career that spanned thirty-seven years. He partially retired in 2015, only to be drawn back to his roots in funeral service at Ransford Collon Funeral Home in Caro, where his knowledge of the community and steady compassion was felt by every family he served.

Al will be remembered as a devoted family man whose quick wit and playful spirit meant no one was ever completely safe from an unexpected trip into the pool. He was a sports fanatic, especially if it involved his son or grandkids, and cheered relentlessly for Michigan State University and the Detroit Tigers. He also spent over twenty years as umpire in chief for the Caro Baseball Federation. Al was meticulous, maybe even neurotic, when it came to mowing his lawn, tending to his garden, or cleaning his pool. Family and friends were welcome any time and were always made to feel how special they were to him. He held his friends close, including those in his camping group, who left him with stories he could tell for years. Al was a faithful member of St. Christopher Parish, Sacred Heart Church in Caro, and was a third-degree member of the Caro Knights of Columbus Council 3224.

Al leaves to cherish his memory, his son and daughter-in-law, Jason & Theresa Rae of North Branch; grandchildren, Jacob and Emily Rae of North Branch; brother, Larry & April Rae of Merritt Island, Florida; many nieces and nephews; Dale’s family members, who Al claimed as his own, the Guild, Weissenborn, and Jaster families; and countless friends. In addition to his parents, Al was preceded in death by his wife, Dale, on February 14, 2014; grandson, Isaiah Rae; father- and mother-in-law, Frank & Marie LaPratt; and special family member, Jerry Guild. Al’s family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Heritage Hill Assisted Living and Heartland Hospice for their loving and compassionate care.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 27, 2026 at St. Christopher Parish, Sacred Heart Church, in Caro with Rev. Isaac Madanu officiating. Burial will follow the service at the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Caro. Al’s family will be present to receive friends on Thursday at the Ransford Funeral Home in Caro from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and 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 the wishes of the family, c/o Jason Rae, 205 West Sherman Street, Caro, MI 48723.

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02/18/2026

Melvin Ernest Hartz

Melvin Ernest Hartz of Port Hope, age 87, passed away on Saturday, February 14, 2026, in Harbor Beach. He was born December 8, 1938, in Port Hope, the son of the late Ernest and Emma (Pleiness) Hartz. Melvin grew up on the family farm and started working early, building many of the silos in the Port Hope area. He went on to work at Fairhaven Industrial Wood Products and then at Even Heat Kiln in shipping & receiving for many years until retirement.

On December 26, 1958, he was united in marriage with Beverly Jean Koehn at the Zion Lutheran Church in Harbor Beach. Their marriage was blessed with over sixty-one years, three beautiful daughters, and many cherished memories. Sadly, Beverly passed away on February 7, 2020. Melvin and Beverly enjoyed taking trips up north to Mio, and you could always find him cutting the grass in his free time. A man of faith, he and Beverly were charter members of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Sand Point and later members of St. John Lutheran Church in Port Hope. Melvin was always willing to help anyone and liked to stay busy. After inheriting a piece of farmland from his father, he spent several years “hobby farming,” something he truly enjoyed. Above all else, Melvin loved being with his family and grandchildren.

Melvin leaves to cherish his memory, his children & their spouses, Bethany & Larry Armstead, Sr., Corinne & Rodney Damm, and Michelle & Donald Perdue, Sr.; nine grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren; siblings, Donna (Allison) Wolschlager, Gerald (Marsha) Hartz, and Clifford Hartz. In addition to his parents and wife, Melvin was preceded in death by his brother, Daniel (Janet) Hartz.

In keeping with Melvin’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to St. John Lutheran Church in Port Hope or Lakeview Extended Care in Harbor Beach.

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02/17/2026

Support our local American Legion and enjoy a delicious fish fry this Thursday, February 19th!

02/17/2026

Alexis Marie Rainey

With broken hearts, yet profound gratitude for the time we were blessed to share with her, we announce the passing of our beautiful and deeply cherished girl, Alexis Marie Rainey.

Alexis passed away Saturday, February 14, 2026 at the University of Michigan Medical Center in Ann Arbor. She was born July 8, 2002 in Orlando, Florida, the daughter of Allison Holden-Bitzer and the late Eric Rainey.

She was a radiant, gentle soul whose sweetness could be felt by everyone around her. She loved being outdoors, sitting quietly with her headphones on, listening to her favorite sounds and music. The simple joy of hearing birds chirping brought peace to her heart.

She had a special love for dogs; one Halloween, she insisted on stopping to pet every single dog she saw, making that night as much about furry friends as costumes and candy. Her love was pure and freely given. She also adored Elmo and Barney, and their familiar songs and comforting voices brought her endless smiles. Her joy in the simple things reminded all of us of what truly matters.

Alexis is lovingly survived by her devoted mother, Allison Holden-Bitzer, whose unwavering love, protection, and presence were the foundation of her world. Her stepfather, Trevor Bitzer, also held a special place in her life.

She is survived by her brothers, Elon Rainey (Caro, MI) and Eric Rainey (Springfield, MO); and her sisters, Bianca Robinson (Texas), Shanika Robinson (Texas), Erica McClure (Florida), and Shantessa Roney (Texas).

She is cherished by her uncles, Jason Holden (Caro, MI) and Kurt Townson (Caro, MI), who were also devoted caregivers who loved and cared for her deeply. She is further remembered with love by uncles Jeff (Marie) Holden (Arizona), James Ledbetter (Flint, MI), Dan, Eric, and Greg Twiggs (Colorado), and Greg Holden (Kalamazoo, MI); and aunts, Denee Smith (Caro, MI), Tabitha (Keith) Reinhardt (Hale, MI), Marianne Matuszak (Caro, MI), Jennifer (Darius) Fykes (Detroit, MI), Audrey Twiggs (Colorado), and Misty Thompson (Caro).

She is also survived by her grandparents, Daniel & Gordene Townson (Kinde, Ml) and David & Julie Bitzer (Caro, MI); her great-grandmother, Dee Bitzer (Unionville, MI); along with many great-aunts, great-uncles, cousins, special friends, teachers, nurses, and doctors who were touched by her beautiful life.

She was preceded in death by her father, Eric Rainey; her paternal grandparents, Red & Boosie Rainey; her maternal grandparents, Karen Holden and James Ledbetter; her brother, Quentin Rainey; her uncles, Ken Holden and Tim Holden; and cousin, “Baby Karen”.

Though her time here was far too short, she taught us about unconditional love, gentle strength, and finding joy in the smallest moments.

Her mama was always there for her, just as she was and will always be her mama's heart.

A Celebration of Life for Alexis will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at the Caro Church of the Nazarene with Rev. Paul McNett officiating. Alexis’ family will be present to receive friends at the church on Tuesday from 3:00 p.m. until the time of the service.

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02/12/2026

William Robert Harmon

William Robert Harmon of Traverse City, age 69, passed away Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at Grand Traverse Pavilions in Traverse City, surrounded by his loving family. Bill was born June 9, 1956 in Berkley. After high school, he attended Montcalm Community College where he earned an associate’s degree in computer science. He started his own company, 4Seasons, and worked as a state real estate appraiser until his retirement. On December 17, 1976, he was united in marriage with the former Jennie Shaw in Ithaca. In his spare time, Bill enjoyed computers and gaming. Above all, he cherished his family who described him as such:

"He played computer games with his grandson. Tell me what kind of grandpa does that?" - Zachary Bragenzer

"No matter how busy he was, if I needed a hug he would stop and give me what I needed." – Jennie, his loving wife

"Wise and social butterfly." - Faith Harmon

"He would always tell me he was proud of me. That was his way of telling me he loved me." - Matthew Harmon

"His hands were gentle and caring. Anytime a man broke my heart my dad would hold my hand and tell me that the man didn't know what he was missing." - Brandy Harmon

Bill leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Jennie; four children and their spouses, Brandy Harmon, Matthew Harmon, Jessica (Matt Korogi), and Michelle (Clinton Valentine); seven grandchildren, Faith Harmon, Zachary Bragenzer, James, Matthew, and Charles Korogi, Rashelle Sillman, and Katelyn (Devin Bliss); four great-grandchildren, Sophia and Kamden Rios, and Alexander and Liam Bliss; and four siblings and their spouses, Joan (Tom Stutts), Donna (Kevin Kent), Robin (Scott Fugimoto), and James Carter. He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Carole (Cassels) Harmon; and a son, Timothy Harmon.

A private graveside service honoring Bill will be held at Brookside Cemetery.

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02/12/2026

Steven Donald Diehl

Steven Donald Diehl of Caro, age 63, passed away Thursday, February 5, 2026 at the University of Michigan Medical Center in Ann Arbor following a brief illness. Steven was born on February 23, 1962, in Davison, the oldest son of Vernon and Donna (Cross) Diehl. A lifelong Michigan resident, Steve was born and raised in the state he proudly called home.

Steve enjoyed cooking, watching YouTube videos, and sharing stories with anyone willing to listen. He loved nature and the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing, which were among his greatest passions. Above all else, Steve loved his family and cherished the time he spent with them.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife, Victoria; their young son, Steven; and his children, Marcella, Vernon, Crystal, and Bruce.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Sutton Sunshine Country Church in Caro. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the wishes of the family, c/o Victoria Diehl, 205 West Sherman Street, Caro, MI 48723.

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02/11/2026

Elaine Marie Fisher

Elaine Marie Fisher of Caro, age 91, passed away on Monday, February 9, 2026 at home, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on January 9, 1935 in Detroit, the daughter of the late Edward and Dorothy (Norton) Hessell. Elaine graduated from Royal Oak High School and went on to marry Dean Fisher in 1954 in Royal Oak. Together, Elaine and Dean raised their six children in the Troy area, building a life filled with love and countless memories. They enjoyed traveling together, especially visiting the Grand Ole Opry, and shared a love of music. Following retirement, they moved to Caro, where they continued creating cherished moments with their children and grandchildren.

Elaine was an active member of the Troy Garden Club before later transferring to the Caro Garden Club, where she enjoyed many gatherings with fellow members. She was an exceptional gardener and found great joy in watching and feeding the birds. In her younger years, she loved sewing and took pride in teaching her children that skill. Elaine was also gifted in crafting, an avid reader who often had two or three books underway, and a wonderful cook and baker known for her delicious meals and baked goods.

Above all else, Elaine’s grandchildren were the true lights of her life. She treasured every moment spent with them playing, laughing, and staying lovingly involved in their lives. Elaine was the heart of her family, and her love, kindness, and vibrant spirit will continue to live on for generations to come.

Elaine leaves to cherish her memory, her children, Karey (Karen) Fisher, Jeffrey (Maryann) Fisher, Nathan (Sandy) Fisher, Darlene (Ron) Carlson, and John Fisher; daughter-in-law, Vickie Fisher; twenty-two grandchildren; thirty great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; brother, Lawrence (Blanche) Hessell. In addition to her parents, Elaine was preceded in death by her husband Dean of sixty-six years and son, Kevin Dean Fisher.

Elaine’s Celebration of Life will be on Monday, February 16, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at the Ransford Funeral Home in Caro. The family will be present to receive visitors on Sunday, February 15, 2026 at the funeral home from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. and again on Monday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of her service. Private burial will take place at Hunter’s Creek Cemetery in Lapeer. Those planning an expression are asked to consider memorial contributions to the Caro Garden Club, Inc., PO Box 531, Caro, MI 48723.

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02/10/2026

Cynthia Marie "Cindy" "Lulu" Hollingsworth

Cynthia Marie “Cindy” “Lulu” Hollingsworth of Burt, formerly of Caro, age 79, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 9, 2026. Cynthia was born October 15, 1946 in Detroit. She had a deep love for music, enjoyed spending time outdoors, and liked collecting jewelry that reflected her vibrant personality.

Cindy will be lovingly remembered by two sisters and their spouses, Josephine & Dave Sparks, and Judith & Monte Neuville; and many nieces and nephews. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Sunnyside Assisted Living, where Cindy was fondly known as the “Queen Diva,” for their many years of dedicated care, love, and support.

Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026 at the Ransford Funeral Home in Caro with Rev. Michele Hile officiating. Visitation will take place on Thursday, February 12, 2026 at the funeral home from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. and again at the funeral home on Friday from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the wishes of the family, c/o Judith Neuville, 205 West Sherman Street, Caro, MI 48723.

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02/09/2026

Nelda Ann Stevens

Nelda Ann Stevens of Caro, age 81, passed away on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at her daughter’s home, surrounded by her family. She was born October 16, 1944 in Pontiac, the daughter of the late Hurshel and Carmen (Curtis) Adams. Nelda graduated from Caro High School with the class of 1963. She went on to work at various restaurants, bartending and waitressing, and in different factories.

Throughout her life, Nelda had a deep love for music, especially dancing. It was through music that she met the love of her life, James “Jim” Stevens. Jim and his brothers played in a band that Nelda went to see, and from that moment, the two began dating, fell in love, and were united in marriage on October 18, 1968. Together, they shared nearly forty-five wonderful years filled with fun nights out dancing and countless cherished memories. After retiring, Nelda and Jim moved to Tennessee to enjoy the warmer weather and were active members of the Eagles there. Jim sadly preceded her in death in 2012.

Nelda was well known for her love of Bingo, playing cards, and Yahtzee, often spending time enjoying these games with her siblings and family. She loved to have fun and never passed up an opportunity to go dancing or listen to live music, frequently attending the Music in the Park series. Nelda was always there for others, ready to help in any way she could. She stayed involved, embraced life fully, and possessed a zest for life that could not be matched. Nelda’s feisty, loving, and caring soul will always be remembered.

Nelda leaves to cherish her memory, her children, Sharol Stevens, Adam Stevens, and Tracy (Rodney) Hood; grandchildren, Hether, Zack (Julia), Bridget, Danny, CJ, Adam (Alicia), Taylor, and Nikki; many great-grandchildren; siblings, Curt (Penny) Adams of Mayville, Denise Gusek of Kingston, Linda Spiekerman of Caro, and Kim (Mark) Carr of Elkton; along with many, many nieces, nephews, greats, great-greats, and great-great-greats. In addition to her husband and parents, Nelda was preceded in death by her son, Jimmy Stevens; infant daughter, Marsha Stevens; grandson, Troy Martens; siblings, Elma Marion, Robert, Alberta, Jerry, Cecil, Dick, Ferol, Johnny, Karen, and Alan.

Nelda’s family is planning a Celebration of Life at the VFW in Caro at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026 with a luncheon to follow. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the wishes of the family, c/o Tracy Hood, 205 West Sherman Street, Caro, MI 48723.

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