Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home of Bronson Obituaries

Introduction to Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home of Bronson

Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home of Bronson is a trusted and compassionate funeral home located in the heart of Bronson, Michigan. With a rich history and a commitment to providing exceptional service, this funeral home has been serving the community for generations. In this article, we will delve into the history, services, and amenities offered by Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home, as well as provide an overview of what sets them apart from other funeral homes in the area.

A Brief History of Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home

Founded on a foundation of tradition and values, Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home has been a staple in the Bronson community for many years. The funeral home's history dates back to when it was first established by a group of dedicated individuals who shared a passion for providing dignified and respectful funeral services to families in need. Over the years, the funeral home has undergone changes and expansions, but its core mission has remained the same: to provide compassionate care and support to those who have lost a loved one.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Shirley Lucille Faunce - April 15, 1922 - March 18, 2021

Departed: 03/18/2021 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: Shirley Lucille Faunce, 98, of Coldwater went to be with her lord and savior on Thursday, March 18, 2021 at Skaggs Assisted Living in Burr Oak, MI. A memorial service for Shirley will be held Thursday, March 25, 2021 at 1:00 PM at the Bronson First United Methodist Church with Pastor Sam Gordy officiating. A burial of ashes will take place in Matteson Cemetery following the service. The family will receive friends for visitation Wednesday, March 24, 2021 from 2:00-4:00 PM and 6:00-8:00 PM at Dutcher Funeral Home in Bronson. Masks will be required for both visitation and services while practicing social distancing.

She was born April 15, 1922 to Glenn and Ruby (Vosburgh) Lytle in Coldwater, MI. Shirley was a 1939 graduate of Bronson High School and on October 17, 1942 she married her high school sweetheart, L. Max Foglesong in Traverse City, MI and he preceded her in death January 12, 1981. On April 17, 1982 Shirley married A.L. “Bill” Faunce in Bronson and he preceded her in death in March 29, 2003. She had worked as an executive secretary for L.A. Darling Company and then Midwest Foundry for 46 years until her retirement in 1986.

Shirley had been a member of the Bronson First United Methodist church and had also attended Velda Rose Methodist Church during her beloved stays in Arizona. She was the past Matron and life member of the Order of the Eastern Star Chapter 354 as well as the past music director of Job’s daughters; Shirley had also been affiliated with the Friends of the Library, the historical society, American Legion Auxillary, the Elks, and the Coldwater Country Club all in Coldwater. Her dedication to service knew no limits as she also offered her time volunteering at Banner Baywood Hospital in Mesa, AZ during her visits there. She was a strong and independent woman that loved to read, golf, play party bridge, playing the organ and traveling both the United States and abroad. Shirley’s love and generosity was known to many but most of all to her family who she loved and adored.

She is survived by her daughter Leslie (Bruce) Gosling of White Pigeon; her three grandchildren Tamara Carver of Sturgis, Joshua Hahn of White Pigeon, Megan (Jack Johnston) Gosling of Plymouth, MI; one great granddaughter Savanah Hahn of Sturgis; her niece Patricia Allabach of Sturgis, one nephew Pete (Sue) Wieglos of Bronson, one great nephew Ruston (Marni) Walker, one great great niece Mercedes (Al) Moore and her great great great niece Alice Moore all of Mount Pleasant, MI.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, her first husband Max, her second husband Bill, one sister Harriet Wielgos and her brother Glenn Lytle Jr.

Memorial donations are suggested to Kindred Hospice of Portage or the Bronson First United Methodist Church. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Dutcher Funeral Home in Bronson. www.dutcherfh.com

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Alice Ratkowski - May 31, 1926 - February 22, 2020

Departed: 02/22/2020 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: Alice Agnes Ratkowski, 93, of Bronson passed away Saturday, February 22, 2020 at Maple Lawn Medical Care Facility. A funeral mass will be held for Alice Thursday, February 27, 2020 at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Bronson at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Bronson. The family will receive friends for visitation Wednesday, February 26, 2020 from 4:00-8:00 PM with a rosary service at 7:00 PM at Dutcher Funeral Home in Bronson. Alice was born May 31, 1926 in Bethel Township to Stephen and Agnes (Czajkowski) Klavinski. On September 13, 1947 she married Florian J. Ratkowski and he preceded her in death on March 30, 1996. Alice started her career at Bronson Reel and after 46 years she retired from Bronson Precision Products. She was a member of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church as well as the Rosary Society; she enjoyed playing cards, fishing, going to the casino, and cooking. She loved to dance, especially to polka music, but, her truest joy in life was her family. Survivors include her son, Gary (Lorinda) Ratkowski of Bronson; daughter-in-law, Jean Ratkowski of Bronson; her sister, Adelia Kubasiak of Bronson; six grandchildren, Mindy (Corey) Schwartz, Brandon (Hannah Jester) Ratkowski, Brittany (Cory) Wynkoop, Kylei (Chance) Dules, Alexa Ratkowski, Madison Ratkowski, and one great grandchild, Amelia Schwartz. Alice was preceded in death by her parents; two sons, Ricky Ratkowski and Stevie Ratkowski; three sisters, Alberta Malovey, Clara Losinski, Geraldine Albright; and three brothers, Floyd Klavinski, David Klavinski, and Stanley Klavinski. Memorial contributions are suggested to St. Mary of Assumption Church or to The Family. www.dutcherfh.com

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Edith Daws - Unknown - February 21, 2020

Departed: 02/21/2020 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: No obituary will be posted at this time.

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Joseph Fisher - November 20, 1947 - February 12, 2020

Departed: 02/12/2020 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: Joseph Loren Fisher, 72, of Bronson passed away February 12, 2020 at the Heartland Health Care Center in Three Rivers.

A memorial service for Joseph will be held Saturday, February 15, 2020 at 1:00 PM at Dutcher Funeral Home in Bronson with Reverend Carolyn Robinson Fisher officiating. Visitation will be Saturday, February 15, 2020 at 11:00 AM until time of service at the funeral home.

He was born November 20, 1947 in Big Rapids, Michigan to Donald L. and Glenna M. (Olson) Fisher. He married his first wife Janice Johnson and she preceded him in death in 2003. On January 15, 2006 Joseph married Joan Diffenbaugh in Three Rivers and she survives.

Joseph had received his Bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University and continued his education even further to later receive his Master’s degree in counseling from Western Michigan University. He had served as Bronson Community School’s High School counselor for nearly forty years and football coach for twenty-five years until his retirement in 2008. After retirement, Joe continued to serve and educate his community as a driver’s training instructor and hosting foreign exchange students. He was an avid Central Michigan Chippewa and Notre Dame fan, enjoyed fishing and watching football, but he loved watching his grandchildren’s sporting events.

In addition to his wife, Joan, Joseph is survived by his mother Glenna Fisher of Battle Creek; his children, John (Robin) Fisher of Grand Rapids, Elizabeth Hernandez of Burr Oak, Bryan Sherman, Mark Sherman both of Chicago, Lisa (Cody) Cripe of Sturgis, Joseph (Marissa Houghton) Leny of Bronson; sister, Deborah Fisher of Vicksburg; brother, Donald (Carolyn) Fisher of Battle Creek; nine grandchildren, Danielle, Angelica, Marcos, Charlee, Julia, Jayden, Briley, Wesson, and Kimber; one great grandchild, Greyson; his mother-in-law Helen Rubley of Bronson and his sister-in-law Lana Fisher of Constantine .

He was preceded in death by his father Donald, his first wife Janice, and one brother, Richard Fisher.

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Lou Rzepka - July 27, 1935 - November 02, 2019

Departed: 11/02/2019 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: Lou “Sue” Suzanne Rzepka, 84, of Bronson, passed away on Saturday, November 2, 2019 at Thurston Woods in Sturgis.

Visitation for Sue will be held from 5:00 – 8:00 PM, Thursday, November 7, 2019 at Dutcher Funeral Home in Bronson. A memorial service will take place at 11:00 AM, Friday, November 8, 2019 at the funeral home. Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Bronson.

Sue was born on July 27, 1935 to Nelson and Mildred (Grove) Holt in Sturgis. She was a graduate of Sturgis High School. Sue married Carol Block, which ended in divorce and she then married John Rzepka.

She was employed as a laborer for Grumman-Olson in Sturgis for many years. Sue was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary in Bronson and she attended St. Mary of Assumption Church in Bronson. She loved playing cards, going fishing and out to dinner with her friends, knitting, crocheting and jig saw puzzles.

Sue is survived by her children; Bruce Block of White Pigeon, Carolyn (Blaine) Tubbs of Jasper, Alabama, Randy Block of Grand Rapids and Glen Block of White Pigeon, her step-children; Lori (Brian) Brewer of Bronson, Lynnette (Mark) Cramer of Gobles and Luann (Michael Himebaugh) Rzepka of Bronson, her grandchildren; Chris (Kathy) Block, Jeff (Amy) Block, Corey (Megan) Block, Tyler (Kerri) Block and Marshall Block, her step grandchildren; Gavin, Darren and Hailey Brewer, Jake Cramer, Dylan and Bradley Smith, her many great grandchildren and her brother, Charles Holt of Laguna Niguel, California. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband John and her brothers Jack and Jim Holt.

Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Mary of Assumption Church in Bronson.

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Gary Kain - June 01, 1948 - November 02, 2019

Departed: 11/02/2019 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: Gary Earl “Gus” Kain, 71, of Bronson passed away Saturday, November 2, 2019 at Ascension Borgess of Kalamazoo. There will be a celebration of life for Gus at a later date. The family was cared for by Dutcher Funeral Home. Gary was born June 1, 1948 to Charles and Mary (Oldom) Kain in Richmond, IN. It was not long after that he was nick-named “Gus” and it stuck for the rest of his life. He was a 1966 Sturgis High School graduate. On December 21, 1968 he married the love of his life, Dixie Hoover in Mendon. Gus was a hardworking man, spending 28 plus years as a Plant Superintendent at Multiplex in Howe, United Tool & Stamping in Elkhart, and Datec Industries in Angola. Additionally, he owned and operated a farm in Burr Oak for 10 years. After retirement from the manufacturing world, he worked with the Sturgis Public Schools doing maintenance and also being a handyman for hire. Gus grew up attending the United Methodist Church. He had many interests including bird & wildlife watching, riding his Harley with his best friends, and tinkering with just about everything. Gus first and foremost was a man of his word who was respected by family, friends, and co-workers. He was a private man and strong man. His true joy in life was being around his family. Gus will be missed by many. Gus is survived by his loving wife of almost 51 years, Dixie Kain of Bronson; his son Chad (Pam) Kain of Sturgis; his sister Donna (Ken) Johnson of Sturgis; his brother-in-law, who was more a brother & best friend, Andy Schneider of Laingsburg; and his grandchildren Charlie (Dino) Reed of Grand Rapids and Samantha (Michael) Reed of Sturgis. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Marlene Ann Schneider. Memorials may be directed to the family. www.dutcherfh.com

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Thressa Phinney - September 21, 1920 - October 06, 2019

Departed: 10/06/2019 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: Thressa M. Phinney, 99, of Battle Creek, formerly of Bronson, passed away on Sunday, October 6, 2019 at Reflections Memory Care in Battle Creek.

Visitation for Thressa will take place on Wednesday, October 9, 2019 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM with a Rosary being recited at 6:30 PM at Dutcher Funeral Home in Bronson. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00AM, Thursday, October 10, 2019 at St. Mary of Assumption Church in Bronson with Fr. John Tran officiating. Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Bronson.

Thressa was born on September 21, 1920 to William and Julia (Barkowski) Bykowski in Bronson. She was married to George Phinney. Thressa worked at Douglas Manufacturing in Bronson for many years.

She was a member of St. Jerome Catholic Church in Battle Creek and was a member of St. Mary of Assumption Church in Bronson, as well as their Rosary Society. She loved taking family pictures and showing home movies. Thressa was the first to have a television. She also enjoyed walking and watching the Weather Channel.

Thressa is survived by her nieces and nephews; Colleen Bruce of Casa Grande, Arizona, Ron Losinski of Miami, Florida, Brian Gladstone of Coldwater, Janice Gross of Grinnell, Iowa, Sharon Delaney of Ocala, Florida, Cheryl Stickler of Paragould, Arkansas, Melissa Evans of Paragould, Arkansas, Lori Hill of Greenville, Cammi Hess of Manton, Lana Shafer of E. Lansing,, Penny Shafer of Battle Creek and Patty Hartman of Battle Creek. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband George, her brothers, Frank, William and Laddie Bykowski and her sisters, Louise Gladstone, Margaret Starrett, Dorothy Kubasiak and Mary Jane Shafer.

Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Mary of Assumption Church or St. Jerome Catholic Church in Battle Creek.

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Norma Unterkircher - November 22, 1931 - September 22, 2019

Departed: 09/22/2019 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: Norma Jeanne Unterkircher, 87, of Bronson, passed away Sunday, September 22, 2019 at Drew’s Place in Coldwater.

A private family memorial service will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery, where Jeanne will be interred, along with her husband, Warren. Please join family and friends to share memories at an open house celebration of Jeanne’s 87 years on Saturday, November 2, 2019 from 1:30 – 4:30 PM at Ancestral Acres, 1063 Holmes Rd., Bronson, Michigan.

Jeanne was born November 22, 1931 in Bronson, MI to Earl & Ethel (Fair) Keckler. She attended Hickory Corners Noble #2 country school, across from the family farm and graduated as Valedictorian from Bronson High School in 1949. She attended Michigan State College in 1950. Jeanne married Warren I. Unterkircher on June 24, 1950 in Bronson. He preceded her in death on December 27, 2015.

Jeanne worked as a bookkeeper from 1949-1964 for Bronson Co-Operative Association, Warren’s Station, Prairie River Golf Course and the A&W Root Beer Stand. From 1967-2004, she worked as a real estate agent for Donner Realty and Somerlott Real Estate and was assistant librarian for Bronson School Systems and the Coldwater Regional Center.

Mrs. Unterkircher loved flower gardening, giving away hundreds of bouquets through the years. She was an avid card maker, sending numerous greeting to her friends. She loved nature and planted all 46 trees at her lifelong residence on Weaver Road. Jeanne enjoyed playing her beloved organ, a special gift from Warren. She was a dedicated Friend of the Bronson Library, generously donating many hours of service.

Jeanne is survived by her daughter Linda (John) Sellman of Grand Rapids, her granddaughters Lana, Erin and Brenna Sellman, her sisters June Hankins of Colon, Joanne Keckler of Sturgis and her brother Jon Keckler of Bronson.

Jeanne was very passionate about Friends of the Bronson Library. If you would like to contribute to a memorial, please make checks payable to: Friends of the Bronson Library. www.dutcherfh.com.

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Donald Crites - March 20, 1951 - September 12, 2019

Departed: 09/12/2019 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: Donald “Don” Lee Crites, 68, of Bronson, passed away on September 12, 2019 at home.

Funeral services for Don will be held 11:00 AM, Thursday, September 19, 2019 at Dutcher Funeral Home in Bronson with pastor Dan Miller officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 until 11:00 AM prior to the funeral service at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Bronson Cemetery in Bronson.

Don was born on March 20, 1951 to Floyd Crites and Clementina (Chuprun) Herman in Sturgis. After graduating from Bronson High School he attended trade school. He was employed as an engineer by Bronson Plastics, which became Solvay for many years. Don retired as an engineer from Kautex in Avilla, Indiana.

He married Linda (Kline) Crites on February 27, 1972 in Bronson and sadly she preceded him in death on January 12, 2005.He enjoyed taking care of his yard and watching television. In his earlier days, he liked to hunt and fish.

Don is survived by his son; Derek (Sarah) Crites of Niles, his granddaughters; Allison and Megan Crites of Niles and his brothers; Charles (Janette) Crites of Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin and John (Hope) Crites of Elkins, W. Virginia. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

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Linda Kirkpatrick - September 16, 1943 - March 14, 2019

Departed: 03/14/2019 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: Linda Sue Kirkpatrick, 75, of Burr Oak, passed away on Thursday, March 14, 2019 at home surrounded by her loving family.

A private memorial service will take place at a later date. The family is being cared for by Dutcher Funeral Home in Bronson.

Linda was born on September 16, 1943 to Bill and Ilene (Tiner) Cooksey in Wabash, Indiana. She married Mike Kirkpatrick on September 19, 1962 in Ft. Wayne, Indiana.

Besides being a homemaker, she worked at Max’s Airport Inn for many years and then she was the manager of Country Table Restaurant in Bronson for over 10 years.

Linda was a volunteer for Sturgis Hospice and with Big Brothers / Big Sisters in Sturgis. She loved painting, many of her creations are on display in the area. Linda enjoyed riding her motorcycle and was a para plane pilot, mushroom hunting and collecting toys to give out to children. She had a great love for life and will be greatly missed by her family, especially her grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Mike; her children, Carrie Kirkpatrick of Hastings and Michael (Cindy) Kirkpatrick of Burr Oak; her grandchildren, Tyler (Dana) Olszewski, Kate (Steve Akron) Olszewski and LuCinda (Mike) Pekan; her great grandchildren, Vincent Reyes, Eli Olszewski, Killian Warner, Sylas Pekan and Ashton Pekan; her siblings, Bill (Jean) Cooksey of Florida, Roger (Marci) Cooksey of Wabash, Indiana, Cathy Hunter of Wabash, Indiana and Jane (Tim) Bolinger of Manchester, Indiana and her Aunt Peggy Beaver of LaGro, Indiana. Linda was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Larry and Tommy Cooksey and her sister Connie.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Big Brothers / Big Sisters in Sturgis.

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Epifanio Aleman - February 13, 1928 - February 10, 2019

Departed: 02/10/2019 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Epifanio Aleman.

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Karen Herman Galinis - June 06, 1957 - February 02, 2019

Departed: 02/02/2019 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Karen Herman Galinis.

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Norman Rumsey - April 16, 1938 - January 11, 2019

Departed: 01/11/2019 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: Norman “Mike” D. Rumsey,80, of Howe, Indiana formerly of Bronson, passed away on Friday, January 11, 2019 at ProMedica Coldwater Regional Hospital.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 15, 2019 from 3:00 until 7:00 PM at Dutcher Funeral Home in Bronson. A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, January 16, 2019 at 1:00 PM at Dutcher Funeral Home in Bronson with Pastor Tim Rowland officiating. Interment will be held at a later date.

Mike was born April 16, 1938 to Verl C. and Lea Mae (Burritt) Rumsey in Bronson. He enlisted in the United States Army on April 6, 1956 and was honorably discharged on February 6, 1958 as a Specialist Third Class. Mike had worked at Douglas Auto Tech in Bronson as a furnace operator and then as a fork lift driver for over 40 years retiring in 2000.

He enjoyed trapping with his Dad, fishing, loved cutting wood, gardening, mowing grass, playing Racko and always helping others. He thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his family.

Mike is survived by his children; Leah Rumsey of Battle Creek, Christina Montgomery of Coldwater, Peggy (Gene) Bartolomea of Ohio, Tony Rumsey of Grand Rapids, Angelique (Don) Scheich of Dundee, Gina Martin of Coldwater, Michael (Gina) Rumsey of Wagener, S. Carolina, Paul (Catrina) Rumsey of Bronson, Dawn Gonser of Colon, Regina (James) Sites of Sturgis and Robert (Amy) Gonser of Mendon, his special friend; Rosie Wilbur of Coldwater, his 27 grandchildren and 31 great grandchildren; his brothers, Clifford (Donna) Rumsey of Bronson, Verl (Connie) Rumsey of Bronson, Ronald (Jeanne) Rumsey of Bronson and Carlon (Leota) Rumsey of Bronson. He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 sisters; Ida Mae Lampman and Sharon Martinez and 1 brother; Vernon D. Rumsey.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Branch Area Food Pantry in Bronson.

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James Buehrer - April 11, 1936 - December 20, 2018

Departed: 12/20/2018 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for James Buehrer.

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Louise Warzniak - December 26, 1917 - December 13, 2018

Departed: 12/13/2018 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Louise Warzniak.

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Charles Crabill - March 09, 1935 - October 17, 2018

Departed: 10/17/2018 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Charles Crabill.

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Janet Strong - August 25, 1944 - August 31, 2018

Departed: 08/31/2018 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Janet Strong.

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Barbara Badder - November 19, 1951 - August 02, 2018

Departed: 08/02/2018 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Barbara Badder.

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Jerry Sweet - January 01, 1753 - June 28, 2018

Departed: 06/28/2018 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Jerry Sweet.

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Elizabeth Sielken - April 27, 1918 - April 27, 2018

Departed: 04/27/2018 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Elizabeth Sielken.

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Breana Dules - September 21, 1991 - April 24, 2018

Departed: 04/24/2018 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Breana Dules.

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Paul Henry - December 14, 1942 - February 28, 2018

Departed: 02/28/2018 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Paul Henry.

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Marilyn Wisman - August 27, 1941 - February 26, 2018

Departed: 02/26/2018 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Marilyn Wisman.

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Lois Mobley - February 05, 1935 - December 21, 2017

Departed: 12/21/2017 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: Lois Mae (McNall) Mobley, 82, of Bronson, went to be with our Lord on Thursday, December 21, 2017 at Maple Lawn Medical Care Facility in Coldwater surrounded by her loving family.

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James Clements - Unknown - October 26, 2017

Departed: 10/26/2017 (Bronson)

Obituary Preview: James “Jim” P. Clements, Sr. ,60, of Bronson passed away on Thursday, October 26, 2017 at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo.

A memorial service will be held at 7:00 PM, Wednesday, November 1, 2017 at Dutcher Funeral Home in Bronson with Fr. Mark Vyverman officiating. Visitation will take place from 5:00 – 7:00 PM prior to the memorial service at the funeral home.

Jim was born January 26, 1957 to James R. Clements and Patricia (Caruso) Rodriguez in Chicago Heights, Illinois. He attended 2 years of college and received his Master Gardener certification.

Jim was employed for 10 years as a sales representative with The Pepsi Bottling Group in Coldwater. He will remembered for his love of family and any kind of fishing. He enjoyed all types of gardening, cooking and 1970’s music.

He is survived by his mother Patricia (Richard) Rodriguez of Bronson; his children, Jim P. Clements, Jr. of Bronson, Patty (Nate) Cranson of Bronson and Ryan Hicks of Sturgis; his grandchildren, Nicholas Cranson, Cassidy Mae, Bella Cranson and Julia Fitzpatrick and his siblings Toni (Clair) Swope of Sturgis and Richard Rodriguez of Bronson. Jim was preceded in death by his father James, his brothers, Arnold Clements and Mark Oliver and his sisters Patricia Barkby and Cindy Miller.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.

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Services Offered by Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home

Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home offers a wide range of services to meet the unique needs of each family they serve. From traditional funeral services to cremation options, memorial services, and pre-planning, their experienced staff is dedicated to helping families create meaningful and personalized tributes to their loved ones. Some of the specific services offered include:

- Traditional funeral services with visitation and burial or entombment

- Cremation services with options for memorialization and scattering

- Memorial services to celebrate the life of a loved one

- Pre-planning and pre-funding options to ensure peace of mind

- Grief support and counseling services to help families cope with loss

The Facilities at Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home

Nestled in the heart of Bronson, Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home's facilities are designed to provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere for families and friends to gather and pay their respects. The funeral home features:

- A spacious chapel with comfortable seating for large gatherings

- A beautifully landscaped outdoor courtyard for quiet reflection

- A modern preparation facility ensuring that every detail is attended to

- Ample parking and easy accessibility for all visitors

The Staff at Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home

The staff at Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home is comprised of dedicated professionals who are passionate about providing exceptional service to families in need. Led by experienced funeral directors, the team is committed to ensuring that every family receives the highest level of care and compassion. From arranging funeral details to providing emotional support, the staff at Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home is dedicated to making a difficult time a little easier.

Community Involvement and Outreach

Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home is deeply rooted in the Bronson community and is committed to giving back through various outreach programs and initiatives. The funeral home regularly partners with local organizations and charities to support important causes and provide resources to those in need. Some examples of their community involvement include:

- Hosting annual memorial services and candlelight vigils

- Providing educational seminars on topics such as grief support and estate planning

- Partnering with local hospices and healthcare organizations to provide end-of-life care resources

What Sets Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home Apart

In an industry where trust and reputation are everything, Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home stands out from other funeral homes in the area due to their unwavering commitment to excellence and compassion. Here are just a few reasons why families choose Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home:

- Personalized service tailored to each family's unique needs

- Attention to detail in every aspect of funeral planning

- Unparalleled expertise in navigating complex funeral arrangements

- A deep understanding of the grieving process and the importance of emotional support

Contacting Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home

If you're seeking a trusted partner to guide you through one of life's most difficult moments, look no further than Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home. Located at 321 East Chicago Street in Bronson, Michigan, 49028, their doors are always open to those in need. You can reach them by phone at [phone number] or visit their website at [website URL]. Whether you're planning ahead or facing an unexpected loss, the team at Dutcher Kolcz Funeral Home is here to support you every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It's often published in newspapers, online obituary websites, or funeral home websites to inform friends, family, and community members of the passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also providing essential information to those who need to know about the passing. They help to notify people of the funeral or memorial service arrangements, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences to the grieving family.

What information is typically included in an obituary?

A standard obituary usually includes the deceased person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also mention any notable accomplishments, military service, or charitable work.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, the family of the deceased or a close friend writes the obituary. In some cases, a funeral home or obituary writer may assist with writing the obituary. The writer should be someone who knew the deceased well and can provide an accurate and personalized account of their life.

How long does it take to write an obituary?

The time it takes to write an obituary can vary depending on the complexity and length of the piece. On average, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours to write a well-crafted obituary.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only the basic facts such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary, on the other hand, provides more detailed information about the deceased person's life and accomplishments.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and newspapers allow you to include one or multiple photos with the obituary. This can be a great way to personalize the tribute and help readers remember the deceased.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

You can usually submit an obituary to a newspaper by contacting their obituary department directly via phone or email. Be prepared to provide the written obituary text and any accompanying photos or documents.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to ensure that their life story is told accurately and with their own voice. This can also be a therapeutic exercise in reflecting on one's life and accomplishments.

How long do online obituaries stay posted?

The duration that online obituaries remain posted varies depending on the website or platform. Some sites may keep them up indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period, such as 30 days or 1 year.

Can I make corrections to an already-published obituary?

If you need to make corrections to an already-published obituary, contact the newspaper or online platform where it was published as soon as possible. They will guide you through their correction process.

Is it appropriate to include humor in an obituary?

Absolutely! Humor can be a wonderful way to celebrate the personality and spirit of the deceased. Just be sure to use discretion and consider the tone and audience when incorporating humor into the obituary.

What is a living obituary?

A living obituary is a biographical sketch written about someone who is still alive. It's often used as a way to honor and celebrate a person's life achievements while they are still with us.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes! Quotes, lyrics, or poems can add depth and meaning to an obituary. Choose something that resonates with the deceased person's personality or values.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive details about the deceased person's life that you're unsure about sharing publicly, it's best to err on the side of caution and omit them or consult with close family members before publishing.

Can I include charitable donations information in an obituary?

Yes! Many families choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers in the obituary. This allows friends and loved ones to make a meaningful contribution in memory of the deceased.

What is an online guestbook?

An online guestbook is a digital space where friends and family can leave condolences, share memories, and post photos in remembrance of the deceased. It's often linked to the online obituary.

How do I access archived obituaries?

You can usually access archived obituaries through online databases or newspaper archives. Some websites may require subscription or payment for access to older records.

Can I republish an old obituary on social media?

If you want to republish an old obituary on social media, make sure you have permission from the original publisher or copyright holder. You may also need to edit the content for brevity and format compatibility.

What is the role of an obituarist?

An obituarist is a professional writer who specializes in crafting high-quality obituaries for individuals. They may work independently or as part of a funeral home or online platform.

Can I use social media to announce a death?

Yes! Social media can be a convenient way to quickly share news of a passing with friends and acquaintances. However, it's still important to publish a formal obituary through traditional channels for wider dissemination.

How do I find old obituaries from past decades?

You can try searching online archives, visiting local libraries or genealogical societies, or contacting historical preservation organizations for assistance in finding old obituaries.

Can I create an interactive online memorial?

Yes! There are various platforms that allow you to create interactive online memorials with features like photo galleries, video tributes, and guestbooks. These can be a beautiful way to honor your loved one's memory.

What is the purpose of an obituaries archive?

An obituaries archive serves as a repository for historical records of obituaries published over time. It allows researchers, genealogists, and family historians to access valuable information about ancestors and loved ones.