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Ransford Funeral Home & Cremation Services - Pigeon

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Pigeon, MI
Ransford Funeral Home & Cremation Services - Pigeon

Providing funeral, cremation and shipping services to the surrounding areas in a modern facility. He holds two Bachelor’s degrees and a Master’s Degree.

Why Choose Champagne
For almost 50 years, Champagne Funeral Chapel has been privately owned and operated. From our three locations in Caseville, Elkton and Pigeon, they have proudly served the Western Thumb, successfully consolidating in 2019 into a modern new building in downtown Pigeon. The funeral directors and staff are personally involved in serving the communities in which they live and work. The current funeral director is James Childs, who in 2004 purchased the Caseville funeral home, then merged the funeral homes in Elkton and Pigeon in 2017. He has worked in the funeral industry since 1996 and is a graduate of Wayne State University Mortuary School. He has the expertise and experience to guide you throughout this emotional time. He plans and conducts all types of funeral and memorial services which will honor your loved one and comfort your family and friends. Transparency and advising on appropriate service solutions suited to the individual situation are aspects of his which will make a client’s experience easier and better. His professional skills as an embalmer and stylist along with his deep knowledge of funeral customs, options, laws, and pre-arrangement plans have earned him a respected spot in the funeral profession and in the community. Along with an office staff to manage arrangements, funeral assistants and removal staff, they assist and guide clients through difficult times. They understand how difficult it is to lose someone and the staff works hard to accommodate the individual needs of each family. The funeral home strives to make a bad situation better.

11/07/2025

OWENDALE - It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of our cherished Bonnie Lou Briesmeister (Bon) who went to be with the Lord on October 27th, 2025.

Bonnie was born on October 21, 1951, to Robert and Donnajean (Bailey) Schember of Elkton. She was united in marriage on March 20, 1976, to Daniel Briesmeister. They started their journey in Caseville where they raised 5 children before settling in Owendale. They shared a love that was one of a kind – imperfect yet strong – and it carried them through life’s many seasons.

Bonnie was a faithful member of the Bad Axe Church of the Nazarene, where she found joy in worship and fellowship. She had a gift for nurturing others; whether it was with her love for baking, often filling her home with the comforting smell of something delicious in the oven or her time researching natural remedies; which was a testament to her enduring hope, and strength, as well as her desire to be well, not just for herself but as a gift for her loved ones. She was the heart and foundation of her family, always offering advice, faithful encouragement, and a listening ear. She found joy in the little things and creativity in the ordinary. When music filled the air, she had a spark that would come alive – no matter how tired her feet might be – she couldn’t resist pulling her husband to the dance floor, showing that her spirit was as light and joyful as ever.

Bonnie is survived by her devoted husband of 49 years, Daniel; her children, Beckie (Jeff) Olkoski, Kenneth (Dianna), Jeremy (Linda), and Danielle; siblings: Robert (Linda), Linda (Frank) Ahearn, Darlene (Kevin) Chick, Brenda (Rick) Love, Randy (Mary), Terry (Linda) and Connie (Allen) Zimmerman; among many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought her endless joy.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother Ronald; her daughter Dawn; her granddaughter Meagan; and her great-granddaughter Ansley.

Bonnie’s life was defined by her faith, her strength, her compassion, and her love for family. Her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Her tired feet may finally rest, but her spirit will keep on dancing – now in Heaven, free of pain and full of joy.

A memorial service in her honor will be held on November 22nd at the Bad Axe church of the Nazarene. Due to space limitations, we welcome your condolences and appreciation to share with family from 12-1p.m., with an intimate family service following at 1p.m. Memorials in Bonnie’s name may be offered to the family in care of Daniel Briesmeister.

View Bonnie Lou Briesmeister's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/05/2025

Linda Wolfram, age 61, of Pigeon, Michigan, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2025, at United Hospice Service Residence in Marlette following a short battle with cancer.

Linda was born on January 18, 1964, to Ronald and Carmen Wolfram.

Linda enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, and she will be remembered for her kind heart, warm smile, and the joy she brought to those around her.

Linda is survived by her parents, Ronald and Carmen Wolfram of Pigeon, sister, Tammy Bechler of Pigeon and her daughter Megan Shedd, brothers, Stephen (Tami) Wolfram of Grand Blanc and their children Makenzie and Lance, and Kevin (Shanon) Wolfram of Frankenmuth and their children Kurtis and Kyle, and proud great-aunt to Megan’s son Blaine Pierson. She is also survived by her great-aunt Helen Wright, and aunts Arlene Danilowicz and Julie (Ken) Nowiski, along with many other relatives and friends who will miss her dearly.

In accordance with Linda’s wishes, cremation is to take place, with a memorial service celebrating her life to be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, St. Francis Borgia Catholic Church in Pigeon a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to United Hospice Service of Marlette.

The family would like to thank the staff of United Hospice Service of Marlette for their loving care of Linda.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

View Linda Marie Wolfram's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

11/04/2025

J. Gail Richmond, 78, of Caseville, Michigan, passed away on Sunday, November 2, 2025, from an extremely short battle with cancer. Gail was born on November 5, 1946, in Pigeon, Michigan. She was preceded in death by her husband, Kurt J. Richmond, her mother and father, Opal and Roy Dufty and beloved dog, Max.

Gail and Kurt were high school sweethearts and married for 60 years. They were rabblerousers in their early days and enjoyed singing to their favorite songs at the Bella Vista and playing cards with friends and family.

Gail was a devoted mother, sage, and friend to her daughter Andrea Richmond and fun-loving Grams to Lillian Deering. She was a beloved maternal figure to her nephew Kyle Buschlen. She was a treasured pet mom to her dog Phoebe, cat Hungry Howie, and many farm kitties (who are now looking for a home).

She was a word puzzle enthusiast and loved to learn, so much that she began her career in the office of Laker High School as a co-op student and stayed for 44 years working as a secretary in elementary, middle, and high school. She was a staple of Laker life and loved and trading witty remarks and snarky banter with her colleagues.

Gail loved doing anything with her girls but especially going to art fairs, perusing and buying jewelry, and shopping for clothes. She loved animals and the beauty and wonder of nature; she enjoyed gardening and exploring nature with her family. Gail always had a twinkle of mischievousness in her eyes, and a sarcastic comeback at the ready. She was goofy and light-hearted with a positive attitude but also a sensitive soul and an advocate for the underserved and equality for all, which she also passed on to her girls.

Gail will be cremated with an intimate family service at a later date. Donations in Gail’s memory can be made to the Thumb Animal Shelter and St. Jude.

Forever our love. Miss you always.

View J. Gail Richmond's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/30/2025

Tim Fred Anthes, 82, of Sand Point, passed away peacefully on October 29, 2025.
He was born in Cass City on February 14, 1943, to Edward and Nellie (Seeley) Anthes. Tim graduated from Cass City High School in 1961, where he earned the prestigious “Smarks” Award his senior year as the most outstanding athlete, excelling in football, basketball, baseball, and track. He went on to earn both his Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degrees from Michigan State University.
Tim dedicated his career to education, teaching and coaching at Perry, Port Huron Catholic, and Laker Schools. Known for his creativity and sense of humor, he made learning a unique and enjoyable experience—one that inspired countless students. He retired in 1998 after a rewarding career that left a lasting impact on generations of students and athletes.
He is survived by his son Jay (Kathi) Anthes of Shelby Township; daughter Sarah (Mike) Honsinger of Hemlock; grandsons Landon (Bailey) Honsinger of Thomas Township and Braydon Honsinger of Hemlock; granddaughters Payton (Lucas) Kienitz of Hemlock, Danielle and Alexis Anthes of Shelby Township; and great-grandson Zayn Kienitz. He is also survived by nephews Mike (Diane) Lowe of Cass City and Rich (Daria) Lowe of Raleigh, North Carolina; niece Diane (Rick) Spooner of River Junction; and great-niece Becky Lowe Schmidt of Grand Rapids.
He was preceded in death by his parents, grandson Logan Honsinger, and great-nephew Rob Lowe.
Tim was one of a kind—a devoted father and grandfather who cherished every moment with his family. “Grampie’s” house was a destination of laughter and adventure for his grandchildren, filled with activities like fishing, sledding, snowmobiling, building forts, playing wiffle ball and croquet, going to the movies, and crafting “beach debris” projects.
He loved the outdoors—fishing, bird watching, and riding his red moped—and was a proud fan of Michigan State and Laker athletics. Above all, his greatest joy was watching and cheering on his grandchildren in their many activities, including wrestling, soccer, track, cross country, dance, tennis, and baseball. He was their biggest fan and proudest supporter.
Tim and his family extend special thanks to Dr. Reiter and Dr. Khan for their excellent care and compassion.
In keeping with Tim’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family ceremony will be held.
Tim will be remembered for his kindness, his stubbornness, and his unwavering devotion to family. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

View Tim Fred Anthes's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/30/2025

Judy Marie Ewald, 73, of Elkton passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at McLaren Flint. Judy was born on March 24, 1952, in Bad Axe, Michigan, to the late Arnold and Luella (Fritz) Ewald, and was a 1970 graduate of Laker High School. Judy started a career in banking in her senior year of high school, working for Hubbard State Bank until its closing before settling in at Independent Bank in Pigeon where she quickly became indispensable, retiring as the head teller after over 48 years with the branch. Judy was a lifelong resident of Elkton and devout member of St. Paul Methodist church, proudly giving of her time and baking skills to everyone in her beloved community. Be it a warm meal or just a clean set of clothes, Judy’s big heart could always be depended on. In her free time, Judy enjoyed quilting and spending time with her brother and closest friend Jim who is left to cherish her memory and the legacy of caring that she left. She also kept the company of many treasured dogs, including Angel and Annabelle, as well as Elli who recently passed after over 16 years of companionship.

Judy is survived by brother Jim Ewald; close friends of the family Dennis and Bev Herford, Shannon Herford, and Haley Leaf; as well as many cousins, other family members, and friends.

A funeral service for Judy will be held at 11:00am on Monday, November 3, 2025, at St. Paul Methodist Church, 150 Main St, Elkton, MI, Rev. William Eberly presiding. Visitation will take place from 2:00pm-7:00pm on Sunday, November 2, at Ransford Funeral Home – Pigeon, 7356 West Michigan Ave, Pigeon, MI, and from 10:00am until the time of service at the church on Monday. Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery in Elkton. Memorials may be made to St. Paul Methodist Church.

View Judy Marie Ewald's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/20/2025

Frances Ruth Engelhardt of Kilmanagh, age 81, went home to her Lord on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at her home, surrounded by her family. Frances was born on January 28, 1944, to the late Willard and Ruth (Nitz) Hornbacher in Bad Axe. She married Orin Engelhardt in Detroit at Emmaus Lutheran Church by Rev. Carl Nietzke on January 3, 1971.
She was a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Kilmanagh. Frances attended St. John’s Lutheran School and graduated from Sebewaing High School in 1962. She was a homemaker and helped her husband on the farm raising dairy cattle and hogs. They raised and trained harness horses, which they raced at the fairs and at Detroit racetracks. Frances loved the races and watching Detroit Lions Football. Beyond the farm, she loved helping raise her grandchildren.
Frances was preceded in death by her husband, Orin, on February 2, 2023, and great-nephew, Dawson Kuhl. She is survived by her children, Larry (Eva) Engelhardt, Kristine (Rob) Marker, and Susan (Lonnie) Irion; grandchildren, Samantha (Matt) Peaphon, Jacob (Yusu) Engelhardt, Alex Engelhardt, Aaron Marker, Eric (Kathryn) Marker, Amy Marker, Emma Irion, and Leah Irion; great-grandchildren, Ava, Logan, and Theodora. Frances will be missed by many of her family and friends, cousins, nephews, nieces, but most especially by her sister, Mary Ann LaCourse-Gorgol; niece, Anissa Kuhl; great-nephew, Treston Kuhl
Frances’ funeral will be on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Kilmanagh. Rev. Thom Garrison will officiate, and the burial be held privately at the church cemetery. The family will be present to receive visitors on Wednesday from 12:00 p.m. until the time of her service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the wishes of the family, c/o Susan Irion, which they will use for a donation to a local children’s organization.

View Frances Ruth Engelhardt's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/16/2025

ELKTON: We are handling the arrangements for Delores Weiss. The complete obituary may be viewed by clicking on the link below.

View Delores “Dolly” Ann Weiss's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/16/2025

CASEVILLE: We are handling the arrangements for Ronald Bass. The complete obituary may be viewed by clicking on the link below.

View Ronald Eugene Bass's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/16/2025

CASEVILLE:We are handling the arrangements for Patricia Smith. The complete obituary may be viewed by clicking on the link below.

View Patricia Ann Smith's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/16/2025

CASEVILLE: We are handling the arrangements for Joyce Pedler. The complete obituary may be viewed by clicking on the link below.

View Joyce Marie Pedler's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/09/2025

Bryan Thomas Herzog, age 70, of Pigeon formerly of Southgate, passed away October 7, 2025. Bryan was born June 9, 1955, the son of Owen and Patricia (Quaine) Herzog. He graduated from Southgate High School in 1975.
Bryan attended St. Francis Borgia Church (our lady of Perpetual Help) together with his sister Pat for many years. Bryan was quiet but at the same time he was there for anyone who needed help. Bryan enjoyed all types of cars, especially those of the 1960s. He could tell the make, model, and year just by looking at it. Bryan along with his brother Jimmy would spend hours if not days working together and repairing Schwinn bicycles.
Bryan loved watching TV, especially classic westerns such as Gunsmoke and Bonanza. His favorite shows were Perry Mason and Quincy. He had a love for the outdoors and could be seen fishing or just taking a walk. As he walked, he took it upon himself to help preserve nature by cleaning up the roadside. Bryan was quiet by nature but when you got to know him you could feel the gentleness in his heart and see his zest for life through his eyes!
Bryan will be remembered by his loving family, sister, Pat Lemerand (significant other, Rich lgnatowski) of Pigeon; brothers, Ron (Diane) of Charlevoix and Allen of Tucson, Arizona; nieces and nephews, Kerrie, Christopher, Jenifer, Jessica, Thomas, Courtney, Blake, Cameron and Elizabeth; and great-nieces Evie, Fiera, Jane, and Katie.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Owen and Patricia, and younger brother James.
Cremation has taken place, and Mass of Christian Burial will be announced once arrangements are finalized.

View Bryan Thomas Herzog's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/07/2025

Troy David Forman of Caro, formerly of Caseville, age 60, passed away on Monday, October 6, 2025 at home, surrounded by his family. He was born September 19, 1965 in Pigeon, the son of the late Carl A. and Melva Jean (Nickerson) Forman. Troy graduated from Caseville High School and went on to work for Active Industries/Tower Industries for over twenty-five years. He then went into the truck driving business, driving for Tom Martin from 2010 until 2014, then for his son’s company, Forman Transport from 2014 until 2019, and in 2020 he started at Six L’s Inc., driving up until his illness wouldn‘t allow him to.
In 1988 Troy married the love of his life, Lori Lynn Petrie. Their marriage was blessed with over thirty-seven years, countless sarcasm, and so much teasing. Troy was his happiest sitting on the porch with his hound dog Maggie Mae, drinking a cold one, and giving you a hard time. If he didn’t tease you, he didn’t like you. Troy enjoyed deer hunting with his son and granddaughters and going to deer camp with his brothers when he was able. Troy loved building and driving demolition derby cars, a passion he shared with his son as they spent many hours together in the garage working on their cars. He was the best papa and always there for his family. Troy will forever be remembered for his humor, sarcasm, and smart ass remarks.
Troy leaves behind his wife, Lori; children, Carl W. (Jaclyn) Forman and Miranda Toner (Joe LaLonde); grandchildren, Hailey Forman, Chloe Forman, Payton Toner, Finnley Toner, Hudson Toner, Wyatt Toner, and Charlie LaLonde; siblings, Lorie (Kirk) Pennell, Tammy (Al) LeValley, Kyle (Jen) Forman, and Chad (Bonnie) Forman; several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Troy was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Clare Forman.
Troy’s funeral service will be on Friday, October 10, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Ransford Funeral Home in Pigeon. Rev. Karen Bouverette will officiate with the burial following at Caseville Twp. Cemetery. The family will be present to receive visitors on Thursday, October 9, 2025 from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home in Pigeon and again on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of his service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the wishes of the family, c/o Lori Forman.

View Troy David Forman's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Address

7356 West Michigan Avenue
Pigeon, MI
48755

Opening Hours

Monday	8:30am - 4pm
Tuesday	8:30am - 4pm
Thursday	8:30am - 4pm

Website

http://www.RansfordFuneralHome.com/

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Our Story

The Champagne Funeral Chapel was founded in 1975 by John Champagne in Elkton, Michigan when he purchased the funeral business from James Colgan which had been in operation at the same location in Elkton since 1960. In 1984 a second location in Caseville was added when the historic Crawford House was renovated into a funeral home. Through hard work and his generous spirit, he grew the business to become the largest in Huron County. In 2004 James Childs bought the funeral home in Caseville and together they continued improving the business. In 2017 Childs purchased the Elkton location from Champagne and also purchased the Meyersieck-Bussema Funeral Home in Pigeon, merging all three funeral homes into one business housed in a newly constructed funeral home in Pigeon which opened in 2019, closing all three of the old buildings. The new spacious and modern building stands ready to serve the community well into the future. The Champagne Funeral Chapel endeavors to be helpful to the community, to provide fine facilities, to be fair and skilled in its practice of the profession, to be accessible to everyone, and to be a good neighbor and corporate citizen. The funeral home’s motto is “Modern Traditions;” funeral traditions are steeped in ritual and time honored customs. We wish to honor, respect, and perpetuate those customs, but also make adaptations to ensure they are relevant and meaningful to our customers. If we can successfully deliver on these claims, then we will be able to honor the lives of those who have died and ease the burden on those who mourn.

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