W. L. Case and Company

03/29/2026

03/26/2026

As Rama Navami is celebrated, we extend heartfelt wishes to all in our community observing this sacred and joyful day.
Rama Navami honors the birth of Lord Rama and celebrates the values he represents—courage, compassion, integrity, and the triumph of goodness. For those carrying grief or tender memories, the holiday’s themes of hope and righteousness can offer quiet comfort and strength.
May this day bring peace to your home, light to your heart, and moments of connection with those you cherish.
Happy Rama Navami to all who celebrate.

03/26/2026

Ruth "Ruthie" Marie Milbrandt

Ruth “Ruthie” Marie Milbrandt of Hemlock, Michigan

Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Covenant HealthCare – Harrison. She was 82 years old. Ruth Marie Carpenter was born on January 28, 1944, in Saginaw, Michigan, to the late Frank G. and Elizabeth M. (Pitt) Carpenter. Ruthie grew up in St. Charles, Michigan, proudly graduating St. Charles High School in 1962. As a young lady she worked at The Spring Brook Dairy Bar (The Freezer). Through a cousin, Ruthie met the first love of her life, Joseph James Barnovitz. They were united in marriage on November 7, 1964; he preceded her in death on January 9, 1980. While attending a dance, she met Clifford A. Milbrandt. They dated, fell in love, and were united in marriage on August 9, 1986; he survives her. Ruthie was employed with Nu Vision and as a sales associate at Meijer on Gratiot Road, retiring after 15 years of loyal and dedicated service. The role Ruthie treasured and cherished the most was being a loving and dedicated homemaker to her husband and children. She was a longtime and faithful member of St. John XXII Parish, St. Mary Catholic Church in Hemlock. Ruthie was an avid bowler and Bingo player and enjoyed and running a weekly Euchre club held at the Saginaw Field and Stream. She loving crocheted afghan blankets for all her grandchildren, crafted towels and other kitchen accessories over the years. Ruthie also created quilted holiday doilies to display around her home. Ruthie and Cliff enjoyed going to the Soaring Eagle Casino and attending fish fries. She will forever be remembered for her kindness, selflessly putting others before herself, and for truly loving her family.

Surviving are her husband of 39 years, Clifford A. Milbrandt of Hemlock; six children: Jerilyn Barnovitz of Owosso; Jay (Irene) Milbrandt of Portage; Barbara Numerich of Bath; Debbie Bailey of Haslet; Jeff Barnovitz of Tucson, AZ; Tammy Barnovitz of Chesaning; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law: Clara Carpenter of Midland; Beth Carpenter of St. Charles; and a longtime friend, Ferne (James) Pufhal. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends to numerous to mention but held closely to her heart.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Theresa Schmidt; a son-in-law, Andy Bailey; parents, Frank and Elizabeth Carpenter; two brothers: Frank Carpenter Jr. and Don Carpenter; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Clifford and Doris Milbrandt Sr; and a niece, Connie Carpenter.

A funeral service will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, March 30, 2026, at the W.L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 201 N. Miller Rd. Pastoral Minister Tori Little will officiate. Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the funeral home on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 1:00 p.m. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home or through www.casefuneralhome.com.

View Ruth "Ruthie" Marie Milbrandt's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/26/2026

John B. Schwanbeck

Born in Saginaw, MI on November 1, 1941 to the late Carl and Dorothy (Ball) Schwanbeck, passed away on Wednesday, March 25, 2026. He graduated from Arthur Hill High School. He attended both Olivet College and Ferris State University where he found what he wanted to do to in finance and marketing. He worked with his family at Swan Ice Cream in the storage part of three businesses they owned. Most people thought the family was in the ice cream business only, but John was in charge of sending government food to schools in eleven different counties in Michigan. The family later sold the businesses to the city of Saginaw. John then found a position with Proctor and Gamble where he worked until retirement. He still maintained his CDL and his real estate license just in case. John spent eight years serving in the U.S. Army National Guard where he ended his service as First Lieutenant. He was active duty in the Detroit Riots for three weeks where he received federal recognition for his service.

John was a member of the Knights of Columbus and a loving and devoted member of his church, St. Thomas Aquinas. He was a blood donor, and member of the eight gallon club. His selflessness continued even after his passing, by being an organ donor, saving many lives. John loved his cottage on Lake Huron, and loved even more creating memories there with his family, especially his grandchildren. He was a loving husband, father, grandpa, brother, and friend, who always took time to care for and connect with people. Anyone who was lucky enough to meet him knew two things for certain: they could count on John and that he loved his wife more than life itself.

John leaves to cherish his memory his wife Carol Ann (Kempf) Schwanbeck of 61 years, their children: Amy (Mark) Lapain, E.J. (Shannon) Schwanbeck, Leslie (Jason) Sedlak, grandchildren: Andrew Lapain, Dylan Diem, Morgan Schwanbeck, Tanner Sedlak, Miri Sedlak, Catelyn Sedlak, his sister Janet Schwanbeck, brother Carl Schwanbeck Jr., his sister-in-law Nancy (James) Benjamin, and brother-in-law Martin Kempf and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Funeral liturgy will take place at 1:00 p.m. Monday, March 30, 2026 at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 5376 State Street. Fr. Steve Gavit will officiate with burial to follow at St. Andrew Cemetery. Friends may visit with the family at the W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 4480 Mackinaw Rd. from 4:00-7:00 p.m. Sunday and on Monday at church from 12:00 noon until the time of the funeral liturgy. Memorial contributions may be made to Saginaw Community Foundation-Kempf Music Scholarship or Save a Heart Foundation. Please share your words of condolence with the family at www.casefuneralhome.com

View John B. Schwanbeck's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/25/2026

Marilyn Frances Diehl Booth

Marilyn Frances Diehl Booth 88, Roscommon, Michigan, passed peacefully in her sleep March 17, 2026, at Grayling Hospital surrounded by family.

Born on February 17, 1938, in Saginaw, Michigan to parents George and Iris (Boese) Diehl. Marilyn spent her life helping and doing for others. From a career spent as a bus driver for special needs children in both Saginaw and Roscommon schools, to the volunteer work she did with the church. She loved being outside and kept busy hunting, fishing, yard sales and traveling with her companion and friend of 47 years, Chip Osmond.

She is survived by Chip Osmond; son Dane; grandchildren: Laurie, Jason, Sean and Joshua. Her older brother Jerry as well as many nieces, nephews and great grandchildren.

She is preceded by her parents and son Jay Booth.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 4480 Mackinaw Rd., Saginaw, MI 48609. Elder Gail Carrick from Community of Christ in Houghton Lake will officiate. Visitation will take place on Wednesday, April 1, from 2:00 - 6:00 pm. Private burial will take place in Roselawn Memorial Gardens.

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03/24/2026

Joseph "Joe" M. Giacoletti

Joseph “Joe” Giacoletti, who selflessly and courageously answered the call to serve as a firefighter with Thomas Township Fire Department, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, March 23, 2026, at Brittany Manor in Midland, Michigan. He was 49 years old. Joe was a beloved father, son, brother, uncle, nephew, friend, and hero to many including his firefighter brothers and sisters. Joseph Matthew Giacoletti was born on September 24, 1976, in Saginaw, Michigan to Zita (Zalensas) and the late Clarence Bertrum Giacoletti. From an early age, Joe knew he wanted a career where he could serve, help, protect and educate others. He was a proud 1996 graduate of Swan Valley High School. In 1999, Joe joined the Thomas Township Fire Department as a paid on-call firefighter. He qu**ky ascended the ranks and in 2006, he became a full-time employee with the department. Joe was an excellent communicator and patient teacher, making him the perfect fit to be the fire inspector and prevention educator within the department. Of the 23 years he served with the department, teaching kids and students was the highlight of his career, along with serving with his two brothers, Dean and John. Joe also humbly and graciously embraced the affectionate nickname “firefighter Joe” given to him by all the kids and students over the years. He loved Thomas Township, the fire department, and civically serving the community as secretary on the Saginaw County Fire Fighters Association Board. An avid sports fan, Joe enjoyed cheering for his favorite teams: the University of Michigan, Detroit Tigers, and Detroit Lions. He also enjoyed listening to rock music and going to all his favorite bands concerts. Joe was an expert grill master, smoker, and barbeque buff, always willing to try new recipes, and successfully making all things taste amazing. Above all, Joe loved spending time with his family and dogs, Ember and Gia. He will forever be remembered for his innate ability to make others laugh and to have fun, for being a kind and selfless person to anyone in need, and for living a good life surrounded by the love of his family.

Surviving are a son, Zac Haremski of Bay City; mother, Zita Giacoletti of Thomas Township; a sister, Heidi (Chris) Markhart of Thomas Township; two brothers: Dean (Pari) Giacoletti of St. Charles; John Giacoletti of Thomas Township; three nephews and one niece: Andrew Markhart, Nicholas Markhart, Braelyn Giacoletti, Colton Giacoletti; and his dog, Gia. Also surviving are many aunts, uncles, cousins, and his entire fire fighter family at Thomas Township, too numerous to mention, but held closely to his heart.

He was preceded in death by his father, Clarence Giacoletti; grandparents: Julia and Joseph Zalensas and Joseph and Margaret Giacoletti; and his beloved dog, Ember.

A funeral service will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the W. L. Case and Company Funeral Director 201 N. Miller Rd. Rev. Ted McCulloch will officiate. Honoring the families wishes, cremation will follow the service. Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the funeral home on Friday, March 27, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A ceremonial firefighter walkthrough led by Thomas Townshp Fire Department will take place at 7:00 p.m. followed by a last call with Saginaw County 911. Visitation will resume on Saturday from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the National Kidney Foundation or Thomas Township Firefighters Association. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at funeral home or through www.casefuneralhome.com.

View Joseph "Joe" M. Giacoletti's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/24/2026

Thomas Lee Garno

Thomas Lee Garno, age 76, of St. Charles, Michigan, passed away on Sunday, March 22, 2026.

He was born on June 28, 1949, in Saginaw, Michigan, to the late James and Minnie (Givannini) Garno.

Tom was a proud graduate of St. Charles High School, Class of 1967, and a graduate of Michigan State University. He worked with his brothers at Garno Brothers Heating and Cooling, where he served faithfully until his retirement in 2001 to care for his beloved wife.

Tom was deeply involved in his community and cherished his many interests. He devoted much of his time coaching women's softball in Thomas Township. His son, Ryan was a volleyball coach and Tom enjoyed attending both team practices and games. He was an avid reader and skilled woodworker. Most importantly, he treasured spending time with his children and supported their various school events and accomplishments.

Tom was united in marriage with Terry Lynn (Davis) Garno on September 12, 1970. Terry preceded him in death October 6, 2003. He was also preceded in death by his siblings Andy Garno, Pete Garno, Kathleen Garno, James Garno, and Candice Sherman.

Tom is survived by his sons: Ryan (Terri) Garno, Thomas (Heather) Garno, and Justin Garno. He also leaves behind four beloved grandchildren: Kaylee, Samuel, Evelyn, and Emma, who brought great joy to his life. His extended family includes caring in-laws: Keith Haney, Darlene Anaman, Janet (Larry) Streeter, Kathy Klein, Linda (Charlie) Miller, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins who all hold his memory dear. He also leaves dear friends, Susie Zelinko, Mickey and Gary Collier, and Tom Nelson.

In honor of Thomas’ wishes, cremation has taken place and their will not be a service.

Arrangements are entrusted to W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 4480 Mackinaw Rd, Saginaw, MI 48603. Please visit www.casefuneralhome.com to share memories of Tom with his family.

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03/24/2026

John Dennis Lynch

John Dennis Lynch beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend passed peacefully on March 22, 2026. John was born on January 8, 1951 to the late William (Bud) and Eleanor (nee McCormick) Lynch.

John grew up in Sun Prairie, WI and enjoyed being the 5th in line of 8 Lynch kids. He was a kind and sensitive person and always looked out for the underdog! John was a lover of animals, especially dogs. He graduated from Sun Prairie in 1968 and shipped off to Vietnam almost immediately after graduation.

He was a proud veteran of the Vietnam war and wore his Vietnam Vet hat and other symbols of being a veteran with pride. In Vietnam he learned his lifetime trade as an HVAC Technician. John honed his skill and he was very good at his trade. People knew that if John installed or repaired their HVAC systems that it was done right.

After 2 tours of duty, John went to the Pacific Northwest where he worked for Boeing in Seattle, WA.

John eventually moved to Saginaw, Michigan where he met and married the love of his life, Sharleene McGrath in August of 1993. They had years of loving each other before she predeceased him on April 28, 2016. John gained a daughter, Melissa (Chester Jose) Hall and 3 grandsons, Matthew Hall, Mitchel (Sarah) Hall and Michael (Michelle) Hall through this union. He loved them with all of his heart and he was a wonderful dad and grandpa. When great-grandchildren (Tabitha, Brooke-Lynn, Matthew Jr, MaKenzie, Jaxson, Violet, Lincoln, Michael Jr and Mya) came along he was thrilled and loved each and every one of them as well.

In addition to his daughter, grandsons and great-grandchildren, John is survived by his brothers Tom Lynch, Don (Shelly) Lynch, Larry Lynch and sister Lisa (Jerry) Gorchels, and sisters-in-law Bonnie Lynch and Lucy Lynch as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his brothers Robert Lynch, Terry Lynch, and his sister Kathleen Welling, brother in laws, Leo McGrath, Raymond Arnold, Bill Welling, sister in laws, Marie Lynch and Kathy Lynch and nephew Mike Lynch.

Friends may visit with the family from 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 5700 Dixie Hwy, Saginaw, MI 48601, with the memorial service to follow at 3:00 p.m., officiated by Pastor Timothy Behnke.

Please share memories of John at the funeral home or by visiting www.casefuneralhome.com.

View John Dennis Lynch's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/23/2026

LaVerne Milton-Sampson Foster Sr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of LaVerne Milton-Sampson Foster Sr. on March 21, 2026, in Saginaw, Michigan. Born on October 22, 1945, in Midland, Michigan to David and Ethel (Buckey) Foster, LaVerne lived a full life marked by dedication to his family, a passion for the outdoors, and a knack for making friends wherever he went.

LaVerne was a man of many interests and talents. He was a proud outdoorsman, always eager to explore nature and connect with the world around him. An avid supporter of the NRA, he enjoyed birdwatching, the thrill of roller skating, and the excitement of ice hockey, having been a player on a local team for many years. He also loved to travel, with a particular fondness for road trips across the United States, which allowed him to visit and maintain connections with family and friends scattered far and wide. He spent a good deal of time out hunting, including spending many years of birthdays out west hunting elk. His enthusiasm for life was infectious, and he had a way of leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Professionally, LaVerne dedicated his skills to the automotive industry, working as a millwright. His work ethic and commitment were evident in all aspects of his life. LaVerne’s dedication extended to his personal life, where he was a pillar of strength and support for his loved ones.

LaVerne is survived by his beloved wife, June Foster; his sons Lavern Foster Jr. and Richard Laubscher; and his grandchildren, Brandon Susalla, Jessica (Todd) Marsh, Brittany Laubscher, Ashley (Kreed) Peterson, LaVern "Trevor" Foster III, and Katie (Brian) Muehl; and his great-grandchildren Jaxson, Owen, Macie, Alaska, Eli, Landon, and Stella; along with many other extended family members and friends he kept close to his heart.

Alongside his parents, he is predeceased by 5 sisters and 1 brother.

LaVerne’s legacy will live on through the memories he created and the lives he touched. He had a way of making everyone feel special, and his presence will be deeply missed.

An hour of sharing will be held on Friday, April 3, 2026 at W.L Case and Company Funeral Directors, 5700 Dixie Highway, Saginaw, MI 48601, at 3:00pm. Friends are welcome to visit with the family from 11:00am until the time of service at 3:00pm.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital in honor of LaVerne Foster, Sr.

Though he may be gone, LaVerne’s spirit will continue to inspire all who had the pleasure of knowing him. His love for life, family, and adventure will forever be etched in our hearts. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication.

View LaVerne Milton-Sampson Foster Sr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/22/2026

Oralia "Lila" Torres

Oralia “Lila” Torres, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and friend, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026, at the age of 76 years.

Oralia was born on August 21, 1949, in Saginaw, MI to the late Joseph and Margaret (Cobarrubias) Vasquez.

Lila worked as a CNA for Covenant Healthcare in their pediatric unit, where she excelled in caring for young children. Her passion was helping the young get back on their feet and feeling better. She eventually retired after over 31 years of service.

She was an avid bowler, euchre player, weekend garage sale warrior and social butterfly in and around the community. She enjoyed catching up with family and friends either at church or around town. Lila was active at St. John Paul II Catholic Church.

Lila leaves to cherish her memory: her children: Raymond (Nina) Torres Jr., Margaret (Lynn Greer) Gloria, Elias (Lisa) Torres, and Belia (Andre Kaczmarek) Torres. She was a proud grandmother to ten grandchildren, Santiago Torres, Raeanna Torres, Rolando Gloria, Emilio Torres, Sara Gloria, Mariana Torres, Matheo Torres, Lillianna Kaczmarek, and Andrianna Kaczmarek, and a loving great-grandmother to five great-grandchildren. Additionally, she is remembered by siblings Joseph Vasquez Jr., Olga Vasquez, Vera (Roy) Gallardo, and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends including her sister-at-heart Soccorro (Jim) Bruske.

Besides her parents, Lila was predeceased by her beloved husband, Raymond, and her sisters Yolanda Covaruibas, Antonia Delgado, and brother Frank Vasquez, her grandson Adam Torres.

Friends may visit the family from 2:00-8:00 p.m. Sunday, March 29, 2026 at the W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 4480 Mackinaw Rd. Saginaw, MI, where a prayer service will be held at 7:00 p.m. A funeral liturgy will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, March 30, 2026 at Christ the Good Shepherd Catholic Church 2445 N Charles St., Saginaw, MI 48602, where friend may visit with the family from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral liturgy.

Please share memories of Lila at the visitation and service or by visiting www.casefuneralhome.com.

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