Desnoyer Funeral Home

03/14/2026

Kathleen "Katie" Marie McLogan

Age 48, of Battle Creek, Michigan, was called home by God to eternal rest on March 12, 2026. She was born on May 28, 1977, in Coldwater, Michigan. Katie lived a life defined by resilience, compassion, faith, and a deep commitment to helping others.

Katie graduated from Jackson High School in 1995. She continued her education at Michigan State University, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work in 2003. Dedicated to serving others and advocating for those in need, she later pursued graduate studies and earned her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Spring Arbor University in 2024.

In her twenties, Katie faced a life-threatening brain tumor and underwent major surgery. Her recovery was something many called a miracle. That experience became part of the strength that defined her life and her desire to help others facing their own struggles. For many years after that, she was on disability due to her epilepsy, but determined to get back to school and accomplish her goals of becoming independent again, and getting out of low-income housing. In the meantime, she enjoyed volunteering for the Elara Home Health Care Service, Humane Society, tutoring elementary students in Spring Arbor, and being a greeter at the Arbor Church. Then in 2021, she had a life-changing brain surgery that allowed her the ability to get her driver's license, her Master’s Degree and return to full time work. For the past year, Katie worked as a social worker with Senior Care Partners (PACE), where she supported and advocated for older adults in her community. Those who worked with her knew her as a compassionate professional who brought empathy, intelligence, and dedication to the people she served.

Katie recently described herself as “a survivor, warrior, empath, advocate, sober friend, music lover, and cat mom.” These words beautifully captured the heart and spirit she carried throughout her life. She faced challenges with courage and used her experiences to uplift and support others. Her compassion made people feel heard, valued, and understood.

Those who knew Katie will also remember her wonderful sense of humor. Even after all she had been through, she had the ability to make others laugh and bring light into difficult moments. Her warmth, wit, and genuine kindness drew people to her.

She loved music, concerts, meaningful conversations, movies with friends, and the companionship of her beloved cats. Recently, she volunteered alongside her cousin Luke at Tim Tebow’s “Night to Shine” event at Southridge Church in Kalamazoo, reflecting her heart for service and her desire to bring joy to others.

Friends remember her as someone whose light shined brightly. A coworker shared that while they were just beginning to know Katie, it was clear she was a dedicated social worker whose compassion touched those around her.

Katie is survived by her parents, Tim McLogan and Sheila McLogan of Jackson, Michigan; and her brother, Kevin McLogan of Florida. She is also survived by extended family members, friends, coworkers, and many whose lives were made brighter by her presence.

Katie has been cremated. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Queen of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church on Thursday, March 19, 2026 at 10:30 AM with Fr. Timothy MacDonald officiating. The family will receive friends at the Church on Thursday from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the life of a woman who lived with courage, empathy, faith, and heart.

Katie’s life was a testament to resilience, compassion, and courage. Though her time here was far too short, the light she brought into the world will continue to live on in the hearts of those she loved and in the many lives she touched.

Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord. Matthew 25:23

03/12/2026

Doctor Martin Snell Holmes

Born February 26, 1943, passed March 8, 2026. He was born in Watertown NY, and was preceded in death by his parents, Douglas Snell Holmes, and Dorothea Christina Yanhcke. Doctor Holmes left his impact in many places with many people. He spent almost 30 years serving the greater Albion community as a family MD, and to most, that would be a lot. Doctor Holmes was a man who lived many lives within this one. He was a farmer, a builder, a pro waterskier, passionate windsurfer, a hunter, a loving father, and a devoted husband. Most of all, he was a friend.

Always good for a story, and a little German lesson, my father was the greatest man I’ve ever known. He is survived by his wife, Shelagh, two daughters, Jenna and Rebecca, and two sons, Jesse, and myself, Aaron.

According to his wishes Doctor Holmes has been cremated. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

‘Gute Nacht, Vater. Ruhe in Frieden.’

Desnoyer Funeral Home

Family Owned for 136 Years

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03/10/2026

Judy Kathryn Lefere

Judy Kathryn Lefere passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 10th, 2026, at the age of 85.

Born and raised in Jackson, Michigan, Judy was a graduate of St. John's High School, where she met her soul mate, Al Lefere. The two were married on August 25, 1962, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love, laughter, and devotion.

Judy was a loving mother to her five children: Sherrie Lefere, Al Lefere (Jill), Connie Michels (Kevin), Andy Lefere, and Jodie Zajdel (Stan). She was a proud grandmother of 13 (Lauren Geikie, Jamie Geikie, Sean Geikie; Allie Corravo (Nick), Julia Lefere; Matthew Michels, Elizabeth Schuelke (Peter), Abigail Michels, Dale Michels; Gabrielle Zajdel, Luke Zajdel, Brooke Zajdel, Jake Zajdel) with three great-grandchildren (Eliza Michels, Clement Michels, Gia Corravo).

Always the cheerleader, she steadfastly supported her family in their endeavors and was immensely proud of all their accomplishments. Her love and guidance shaped generations of her family, always encouraging them with the same spirit and energy that defined her own life.

Judy shared her warmth and generosity with all who knew her. A woman of deep Catholic faith, she carried her beliefs into every aspect of her life, guiding her family with grace, kindness, and unwavering love. She spent many years working and volunteering at Lumen Christi High School, where she was fondly known to students as the “cookie lady.”

Judy always enjoyed a good celebration and couldn’t resist the dance floor. Even at the age of 84, she still led the crowd dancing the “Gater Dance” to “Taking Care of Business.” Her fun-loving personality and zest for life made her the heart of any gathering. She loved socializing with friends and family, and treasured her monthly card party.

Judy will be remembered as an amazing woman, a tireless mother, and a friend to all who knew her. Her warmth, laughter, and love will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by everyone whose life she touched.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church, 120 East Wesley Street, Jackson on Friday, March 13, 2026 at 10:00 AM with Father Tim Nelson officiating. Interment will follow at St. John Catholic Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at St. Mary’s Church on Friday from 9:00 AM until 10:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Jackson Interfaith Shelter.

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03/09/2026

Pauline Paquette

Of Jackson, passed away on March 8, 2026 at the age of 87 years. She is survived by her husband of 70 years, Mark; two daughters, Denise Paquette (Wayne Swick) and Deena (Art) Riske; granddaughter, Rebekah (Andres) Garcia; grandson, Anthony Riske (Jennifer Smith); great-grandchildren, Solaman, Elliot, Bennet, and Oliver; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her son, Dennis Paquette; parents, Carl and Eleanor Schnable; sisters, Betty Kramer and Rosemary Repasy; and brother, Joe Schnable.

Pauline was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

Funeral Services for Pauline will be held at the Desnoyer Funeral Home on Thursday, March 12 at 1:30 PM with Father Robert Pienta officiating. Interment will follow at St. John Catholic Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 12:30 PM until 1:30 PM.

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03/06/2026

Roger Darin Stensaker

Roger Darin Stensaker, 53, passed away on March 3, 2026 in Jackson, Michigan. He was born on December 13, 1972, in Williston, North Dakota to Roger and Sharon Stensaker.

Roger was raised in Williston, where his love of sports began at an early age. Baseball was a lifelong passion, both playing and watching the game. He was a devoted fan of the Atlanta Braves and later adopted the Detroit Tigers as his home team after moving to Michigan. He also enjoyed cheering on the Denver Broncos. Roger could almost always be found wearing a baseball cap representing one team or another, whether it was “his” team or not.

He graduated from Williston High School in 1991. He lived and worked in Williston until moving to Indiana in 1997. In 2000, he relocated to Jackson, where he began working for Gerdau Steel. Roger remained a dedicated employee there until his passing.

While living in Jackson, Roger met Lisa Wheeler, and together they welcomed two children, Dariann and Xanndra. Although their paths eventually went in different directions, his love for Dariann and Xanndra never wavered. From the moment they were born, they were the lights and loves of his life. He was fascinated by everything about them—their personalities, their interests, their laughter, and the ways they saw the world. All these years later, they remained his favorite people. He loved them immensely and unconditionally, without hesitation and without fail.

Roger was a quiet man who often kept to himself. Yet with those he loved and felt comfortable around, he revealed a playful spirit. He enjoyed joking, laughing, and occasionally pulling pranks. He liked bowling, video games, energy drinks, and was a fan of Star Wars. Gift-giving was his love language, and he took great care in noticing what people liked. If he knew someone enjoyed something, he would always make sure to find it for them. He found genuine joy in giving thoughtful gifts and remembering the little things that mattered to others.

He was loved beyond measure and will be deeply missed by those who knew and cared for him. Words can hardly express how much he meant to his family and friends.

Roger is survived by his beloved children, Dariann and Xanndra; his father, Roger (Mary) Stensaker; his brother, Glenn (Kim) Stensaker; his sister, Amy (Steven) Armstrong; his step-sisters, Jennifer (Clint) Strietzel and Kimberly (Justin) Ulich; as well as multiple nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Sharon; his paternal grandparents, Stanley and Meatta Stensaker; and his maternal grandparents, Francis and Luella Schmitz.

According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Roger’s Life will be held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at 2:30 PM at the Desnoyer Funeral Home. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Wednesday from 1:30 PM until 2:30 PM. Those who cannot attend can watch at: https://app.attend.live/viewer/event?idEvent=qxAW2

Desnoyer Funeral Home

Family Owned for 136 Years

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03/02/2026

Juan "John" Jacobs

Juan “John” Jacobs, age 92, of Jackson, Michigan went home to be with his Heavenly Father on February 26, 2026. He was born June 9, 1933 in Jackson Michigan. John is survived by his sons John Jacobs and Mike (Laura) Jacobs; grandchildren Stephanie (Evan) Schiro, Kaily (Joshua) Thomas, Miguel Rodriguez III, Alex Rodriguez and Olivia Rodriguez; great-grandchildren Jacoby, Liliana, Mariela, Trinity, Felix and Elowyn; dear uncle to numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in passing by his wife of 30 years Donna Jacobs; step-daughter Susan Rodriguez; brothers Diego, Cresencio, Manuel, and Franciso; and sisters Elizabeth, Connie, Louisa and Florentina.

John, a proud U.S Army veteran, also earned retirements from Corning Glass and Conrail Railroad. He was a longstanding member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. John was a loving husband and devoted father and grandfather. He loved fishing and cheering on the University of Michigan Wolverines. He enjoyed breakfast at Roosters Coney Island every morning and playing the slots with his niece Francis at Firekeepers Casino. A lifelong tinkerer, there was no tool that John didn’t have and was always quick to offer assistance with fixing broken items. He will be deeply missed by his family and all of his friends who knew him.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at 11:00 AM at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church with Father Randy Koenigsknecht officiating. Interment will take place at 2:30 PM on Thursday, March 5 at Oak Grove Cemetery in Napoleon.

The family will receive friends at the Desnoyer Funeral Home on Wednesday, March 4 from 4:00 to 7:00 PM and on Thursday, March 5 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church from 10:30 AM until 11:00 AM.

Instead of sending flowers, contributions to the Jackson County American Legion would be appreciated.

Desnoyer Funeral Home

Family Owned for 136 Years

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03/02/2026

Douglas Lee Burdick

Douglas Lee Burdick of Jackson, Michigan passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026 at the age of 89 years. He was the son of Ernest and Evelyn Burdick. Douglas is survived by his loving wife of 66 years Janet L Burdick; two children David Burdick (Lisa), Lisa Michner (Andy), five grandchildren Noelle Smith (Logan), Sarah Michner, Rachel Williams (Cade), Calvin Burdick and Natalie Burdick. He is also survived by his sister Shirley Chirico. He was preceded in death by his brother Avery and son, Andrew Burdick.

Douglas graduated from Jackson High School and attended Michigan State University, where he earned a master’s degree in business. Upon returning to Jackson he began a career working with Tompkins Johnson, where he eventually became President and CEO. Doug was actively involved in the Jackson community. This included the Jackson Community Foundation, Ella Sharp Museum and Dorothy Blakely Foundation.

Doug enjoyed spending time with his family and grandchildren. He spent many hours on the water enjoying his boat and fishing in Florida during winters. He was an accomplished tennis player.

Doug had many good friends in the Jackson area and will be missed deeply by all of us. As per his wishes, cremation has taken place. The family will be receiving friends at the Desnoyer Funeral Home on Friday, May 8, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM with a sharing of memories at 11:30 AM.

Desnoyer Funeral Home

Family Owned for 136 Years

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03/01/2026

Carol Ann Lefere

Carol passed on Friday, February 27, 2026 due to pneumonia-induced dementia, which she was troubled with the past two years. She was the solid rock in her 62 year marriage to Gerald Lefere, serving as the most encouraging and generous golf widow that Jackson has ever seen.

She was born in North Adams, Michigan to her parents Gerald and Birdell Roberts who, along with her older brothers Tom and David Roberts, preceded her in death. Her beloved twin Chloe Smith and their younger sisters Kathleen Jabour and C. Suzy Roberts will continue to carry fond memories of their childhood at the North Adams farm. A proud cheerleader, she graduated from North Adams High School and attended Adrian College.

Carol met the love of her life one night at the Lodge on Clark Lake. Married in 1964, she moved to Jackson, expanding her family to include numerous in-laws, nieces, and nephews. Carol and Jerry’s exemplary marriage produced four children: Scott (Maryjane), Jerry, Tony (Julie), and Kristen (Sean Johnstone). True to her cheerleader roots, she unselfishly supported her entire family; from golf courses to basketball courts, stages to fields, she loved nothing more than to see her loved ones succeed. After beating cancer, she actively encouraged others facing similar health challenges. She avidly read, sewed, and pursued her Catholic faith; she loved the Detroit Tigers, the Fighting Irish, Young and the Restless, her friends, and travelling with family. Later in life, she cherished adding “Grammy” to her titles with the addition of her four grandchildren, Alixandra (Brandon Ladd) and Nicholas Lefere, and Jack and Jessica Johnstone. Great grandsons Declan and Rylan Ladd were a beautiful bonus in her last years.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at the Queen of the Miraculous Medal Church in Jackson at 10:30 A.M with Fr. Timothy MacDonald officiating. Cremation will follow the Funeral Mass. The family will receive visitors for one hour at the church before the Mass begins.

Remembrance donations to Queens Church or Lumen Christi High School would be appreciated.

The family wishes to acknowledge the compassionate care provided by the Jacqueline House Assisted Living staff here in Jackson. The staff of the Optimal Care Hospice Group were also a great comfort. We deeply appreciate their supportive care.

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02/26/2026

Kevin "Kip" Mark Sullivan

Sullivan. Kevin M. "Kip”

Of Jackson, passed away under the loving care of his family and the staff at the Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice Home on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at the age of 71 years. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Nora Lee: two children. Aaron Broomfield and Andrew Broomfield; brothers and sisters, Theresa (Eric) Fuller, Christopher Sullivan, and Deborah (George) Vinson; brothers-in-law, Edward (Tess) Kint and Richard (Cindy) Kit; numerous nieces and nephews: special friends. Keith and Pam Stevens and Jim Benson; and many other good friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Betty Jean Sullivan: brothers, Michael. Phillip, and Timothy Sullivan; and sisters, Kathleen Wood and Mary Elizabeth Sullivan

Kip and Nora owned and operated Sullivan Northwest Tractor. Prior to that, he was a farmer and worked at a John Deere Dealership. Kip was an avid hunter, enjoyed shooting darts, and hanging out with his friends and family. He also enjoyed going to tractor shows.

According to his wishes, cremation has taken place and a celebration of Kip's life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Tompkins Historical Society or the Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice Home would be appreciated.

Desnoyer Funeral Home

Family Owned for 136 Years

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02/24/2026

Thomas Gene Mietelka

Thomas Gene Mietelka of Rives Junction, Michigan passed away on February 21, 2026 at the age of 75.

He is survived by his daughter Tracy Mietelka, grandchildren Torian Mietelka, Nathan Palmer Jr. and Wade Palmer. Also survived are his brothers, James Mietelka and Jerry (Trudy) Mietelka along with many close nieces, nephews, and their children and families.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Isabelle Mietelka, his brother Joseph Mietelka Jr. and his sister-in-law, Marilyn Mietelka.

Tom was born and raised in Jackson and attended Northwest high school class of 1969 and was a decorated veteran of the armed services. He was an extremely talented carpenter with knowledge from complete home construction to fixing and making toys. He loved wildlife, hunting and fishing and talking classic cars with his grandsons. Tom will be remembered most by his joking and teasing the family on many occasions, including his silly nicknames for all the kids and trademark phrases. You could often find him at home with a cigar or watching a good movie.

He was deeply loved and will be missed by so many.

According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 11:00 AM at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church with Father Randy Koenigsknecht officiating.

The family will receive friends at the Church from 10:00 to 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Henry Ford Allegiance Hospice Home would be appreciated.

Desnoyer Funeral Home

Family Owned for 136 Years

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02/23/2026

John De Los Santos

De Los Santos, John

Of Jackson, Michigan achieved eternal peace on February 21, 2026 following a prolonged illness. He was born on August 18, 1947 in Reynosa Mexico to parents Elvira and Juan De Los Santos.

John was known for his quick witted humor and unwavering kindness and deep love of his family. He was proudly called to serve his country in the United States Army in December 1966. Afterwards he went on to pursue a trade school degree at JCC as an Industrial Mechanic, where he spent 33 years between Goodyear and Eaton Aerospace. Beyond his professional life, John was passionate about his trivia nights with friends, traveling with his wife up north to see family and spending time with his family and grandchildren who were his world.

John is survived by his spouse, Marge (Mary) De Los Santos; his children, John (Shawna) De Los Santos, Amy (Carl) Masarik, Melissa (Keenan) France; Siblings, Gilbert Santos, Irma De Los Santos, Lauren (Ron) Gollakner, Rosemary (Bryan) Bowman, Eleazar De Los Santos all from Jackson and Delia Fallon of Bozeman, Montana; 3 grandchildren, Ethan, Dylan, and Nathan De Los Santos; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins in Lansing, Michigan to numerous to mention he loved his family so much they all his legacy. John was preceded in death by his parents, Juan and Elvira and siblings Nora Luna, Linda Santos, and Marcos (Mike) Jimenez.

A Celebration of John’s Life will be held at the Desnoyer Funeral Home on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at 11:00 AM with Pastor Melvin Hicks officiating. Interment with full Military Honors will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta, Michigan at 9:15 AM on Friday, February 27.

The family will receive friends at the Desnoyer Funeral Home on Thursday, February 26 from 10:00 to 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made directly to his family.

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02/23/2026

Monica Rose Maher

Maher, Monica Rose

Of Jackson, passed away on Friday, February 20, 2026 at the age of 94 years under the loving care of her family and the staff at Cascade Senior Care Center.

She is survived by her children, Christine Rainey (Dean Jr.), Dr. James J. Maher (Deborah Rainey), and Erin Bushinski (Mark); son-in-law, Greg McKenzie; grandchildren, Meghan Bushinski, Erica Lesiewicz, Dane Bushinski, Jacob Bushinski, Dr. Katrina Maher, Dr. Robert Maher, James McKenzie, Amanda Poirot, Patrick Maher, Courtney Haroney, and Mackenize Maher; 12 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Mary Ann Rainey; and her three special friends, Rosie, Linda, and Grace.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years, James R. Maher; son, Patrick Maher; daughter, Rose McKenzie; her mother, Erma Taylor; father, Joseph Trapp; step-father Eben Taylor;

and her siblings, Ruth Medley, Robert Trapp, and Joan Day.

Monica was born on March 19, 1931 in Jackson, Michigan. She attended St. John Elementary and High School and graduated in 1949. She married James, her grade school and high school sweetheart in 1950. She spent her entire working career along side her husband at various jobs. They loved to travel together, especially to Florida and Hawaii. She was very artistic and enjoyed sewing, knitting, and crocheting. Monica was a loving mother and grandmother and will be deeply missed.

A special thank you Amanda, Jenna, and the entire staff at the Cascade Senior Care Center.

According to her wishes, cremation has taken place. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at a later date.

Instead of sending flowers, contributions to St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church would be appreciated.

Desnoyer Funeral Home

Family Owned for 136 Years

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