Ransford Funeral Home - Caro

06/12/2026

Henry "Hank" Calvin Kuhne

Henry “Hank” Calvin Kuhne of Quanicassee, age 75, passed away on June 10, 2026 after returning home from a day of fishing. He was born April 19, 1951 in Caro, the son of the late Henry and Mary (Lapak) Kuhne. Following high school, Hank honorably served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1969 to 1971, attaining the rank of Lance Corporal. During his military service, he received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Rifle Marksman Badge.

Henry “Hank” Calvin Kuhne of Quanicassee, age 75, passed away on June 10, 2026 after returning home from a day of fishing. He was born April 19, 1951 in Caro, the son of the late Henry and Mary (Lapak) Kuhne. Following high school, Hank honorably served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1969 to 1971, attaining the rank of Lance Corporal. During his military service, he received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Rifle Marksman Badge.
On June 15, 1974, Hank married the love of his life, Renita Thornton. Their union was blessed with two sons, and nearly forty cherished years. Renita preceded him in death on February 20, 2014. Hank was fortunate to find love again and married the former Diane Dodds-Peplinski on July 7, 2018. Known throughout the community as “Hardware Hank,” he spent many years serving customers and neighbors as the owner of Reese Hardware. His passion for the hardware business continued as he helped his sons establish Gambles Hardware & Gun Shop in Caro. Hank was respected for his knowledge, generosity, and willingness to lend a helping hand throughout the community.
A devoted member of Christ Lutheran Church in Reese, Hank faithfully served his congregation as both Church Council President and Vice President. He was deeply committed to his community and was a longtime member of the Reese American Legion, where he served as Commander and Chaplain. Hank was also a dedicated member and volunteer with the Reese Chapter of Ducks Unlimited for forty-two years.
Hank embraced life with enthusiasm and adventure. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, gunsmithing, buying and selling through online auctions, traveling, and spending time outdoors. Above all, he treasured time spent with family and friends. His grandchildren knew him simply as “Papa,” a title he wore with great pride. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, friend, mentor, and community leader whose kindness touched countless lives. Hank’s legacy of service, hard work, faith, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Hank leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife, Diane Kuhne, sons, Jeremy Kuhne and Jason (Tara) Kuhne; step-children, Tina (Steve) Shustek and Nathan Peplinski; grandchildren, Blake, Rhett, Emma (Cory), Lydia, and Cecilia; sister, Rhonda King. In addition to his parents and first wife, Hank was preceded in death by siblings, Marion, Kathleen, and Richard; daughter-in-law, Whitney (Kleckler) Kuhne; sister-in-law, Ollie; brother-in-law, Earl King.
Hank’s funeral service will be on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Lutheran Church in Reese with Rev. Phil Bromhal officiating. Hank’s family will be present to receive visitors on Monday, June 15, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Ransford Funeral Home in Caro and again on Tuesday at church 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 Reese American Legion or Christ Lutheran Church in Reese.

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06/09/2026

Kay Delia McComb

Kay Delia McComb, born on January 2, 1947, passed away at her home on June 7, 2026. She will be remembered for her gentle spirit and unwavering kindness that touched the lives of those around her. Kay devoted much of her life to her work, first at a motel and later dedicating over twenty years to Caro State Hospital.

In her personal life, Kay found joy in simple, yet meaningful passions. She was an avid crafter, often spending her time creating beautiful works of art. Her love extended to nature’s delicate creatures, especially turtles and butterflies. Those close to Kay remember her as a woman who was sweet, kind, and funny, someone who had a quiet presence but a heart full of generosity — she would literally give you the shirt off her back.

A Celebration of Life will be held later this month in honor of Kay's memory.

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06/08/2026

Please Join us to celebrate the life of George Pattullo from 5:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. on Friday, July 10, 2026 at Colwood Church.

06/05/2026

Marilyn Ann Ecken of Caro, age 86, passed away Friday, June 5, 2026, surrounded by her family. She was born March 29, 1940, in Flint, MI and moved at a young age to the family centennial farm in New Lothrup, Michigan. After high school, she felt called to join the convent of the Dominican Sisters in Grand Rapids and attended Aquinas College. She taught for a year in Albuquerque, New Mexico before returning to teach at Sacred Heart parish in Saginaw, Michigan. She befriended the young assistant priest there, and three years later followed him from religious life to family life. She married John Francis Ecken on July 10, 1970, and created their own musical group with the addition of four daughters.

Marilyn taught for 21 years in Caro Schools, primarily as a first grade special reading teacher. She assisted with Brownies and Girl Scouts and was an activator - always with a project in mind and rarely sitting down - but in the summers and on holidays, she spent time cooking, reading, shopping and watching soaps with her girls. She was dedicated to motherhood, at one point having 4 kids under the age of 4 and foster children also in the home.

After retirement, Marilyn and John became Winter Texans, spending half the year in Mission, TX with a busy social and volunteer schedule. Early on, Marilyn loved to go to an orphanage across the border in Mexico, teaching and volunteering. Later, they switched to volunteering in a neighboring school as well as teaching English as a Second Language in their home; Marilyn also served as a long term volunteer at South Texas Oncology. She was an active member of the El Valle del Sol park council, serving on the board and volunteering for pancake breakfasts, Saturday night dances and weekly potluck dinners. She and John regularly attended music jams and she was a fierce card shark in their evening card game schedule.

Marilyn and John returned to Michigan in May each year to spend time with their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, and made an effort to get to tennis and golf matches, baseball games, violin concerts and other activities. Marilyn especially enjoyed spending time reading on the deck at the cottage in Caseville.

Marilyn leaves behind a legacy of 55+ years of marriage to John before he preceded her in death on January 14, 2026. They had four daughters: Renee (Darrin) Wagner, Kay (Brian) Schuetter, Lou (Joey) Ecken Kidd, and Gina (Kevin) Wolma, as well as 5 grandchildren: Nikki (Jake) Moran, Tyler Wagner, Jordan Wolma, Kayla Wolma and Kelsey Wolma; and 2 great-grandchildren, Finn and Cole. The family was able to be together to share a beautiful Christmas together in Texas, then Marilyn was able to spend several additional months enjoying ice cream, snow angels, dyed hair, diamond art, and family time in Brighton, Michigan as well.

A joint funeral mass for Marilyn and John will be Saturday, June 13, 2026, at St. Christopher Parish, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Caro, Michigan. Visitation will be 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. prior to the funeral mass at 11:00 a.m., with a luncheon to follow at the Knights of Columbus Hall.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Elara Caring Hospice Foundation, to the St. Christopher Food Pantry (Caro) or Salvation Army of Mission, TX (Hidalgo County).

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06/04/2026

Carl Fredric Monson

Carl Fredric Monson of Cameron Mills, New York (formerly Caro, Michigan), age 62, passed away Sunday, May 17, 2026 surrounded by his loving family after a two and a half year battle with a traumatic brain injury. Born March 15, 1964, in Rome, NY to Mark Monson and the late Janet Reimer Monson. Carl graduated from Caro High School in 1983. While in high school, he met the love of his life, Michelle Hanes, and the two were married November 3rd, 1984 in Cass City.

Carl’s work ethic showed through at a young age, working at Trudeau’s Bakery all through high school. He then was employed by Walbro Co. in Caro for many years. After his work at Walbro Co., Carl and Michelle started their own business, where he worked diligently until the time of his brain injury. Carl and Michelle worked side by side to build and grow their business that he took great pride in.

In his younger years, Carl faced adversity. But things changed in high school, when he was introduced to and shown the love of Christ through his future in-laws. Carl made the choice to become a follower of Jesus and was forever changed. God was then and forever a source of comfort and love for him. Carl and his best friend raised their children to know and to love the Lord. Carl was a member of the Boyd’s Corner Bible Church.

Carl was a true and faithful Michigan sports fan. Up until the last week of his life, he would follow The Detroit Lions, The Detroit Pistons, The Detroit Tigers, and The University of Michigan Wolverines. Go Blue!

Carl also loved to play golf. Even if he couldn’t make it to the links, he enjoyed hitting balls behind his house for the dogs to chase.

His grandchildren were a huge bright light in his life. He enjoyed helping his granddaughters, Victoria and Eleanor, at horse shows - helping lead their horses and adjusting their tack with his ridiculously strong hands. His grandson Joe loved to work in Poppy’s shop, learning all about Pop’s tools and how to use them. Grandson Roman and Pop shared a love of movies and would spend hours laughing like fools while watching comedies. Grandson Deklend also enjoyed spending time with Pop in his shop, showing Pop how strong he was and trying to do all the jobs Pop did. Granddaughter Kyra loved creating art for her Pop and would always have something new and creative to give or show Pop! When miracle Raelea was born, she put even more sunshine into Poppy's life with her beautiful smile and infectious giggles. Grandson Zayn may only be two, but he and Poppy shared a special relationship. Zayn would come in and immediately start looking through Pops’ drawer to see what treasures and candy he could find. Poppy will be missed but never forgotten. He will live on in their hearts and minds forever.

Granddaughter Raelea Michelle Monson waited at the gates of heaven for 11 short days before welcoming her Poppy into Glory with her.

Carl is survived by his wife, Michelle Monson; son, Zachary (Danielle) Monson; daughter, Whitney (Wade) Daley; grandchildren Kyra, Deklend, Joe, and Zayn Monson; Victoria, Roman and Eleanor Daley; father Mark Monson; siblings, Paul, Gina, and Eric; father-in-law, Roland (Mickey) Hanes; sisters and brother in-law, Pam (Rodney) Mills, Michael (Robin) Hanes April (Jim) Stephens.

He is preceded in death by his infant sister, Linnie Monson; his mother, Janet Monson; his mother-in-law, Nancy Hanes; and his brother-in-law, Tim Jaster.

A visitation will be held at the Boyd’s Corner Bible Church, 4740 County Route 21, Jasper, NY 14855, on Saturday, May 23, from 9-11 AM with a memorial service to follow.

In Lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the Family Discretionary Fund C/O Michelle Monson 2880 Owens Rd Cameron Mills NY 14820, or by Venmo https://venmo.com/u/bsmw1103, last four digits if asked 4642.

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06/02/2026

Ann Story of Caro, age 75, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Monday, June 1, 2026, at the Tuscola County Medical Care Community in Caro where she was regarded as a fixture of the facility. Ann was born on April 17, 1951, in Langford, Alabama to the late Paul and Doris (Champion) Story. She grew up in Dickenson, Texas where she went to high school. Ann was a legal secretary by trade, primarily working with the Baron & Budd Law Firm in Dallas before moving to Wichita Falls to take care of her mother. She also fondly remembered a year spent adventuring in Anchorage, Alaska. Ann had a huge heart full of love for her friends, family, and especially dogs, and was known for saying that after she passed, she could be found across the Rainbow Bridge with all her beloved pets, including her cherished dog Woofer. She is also remembered for all the wonderful holiday memories she made with her family, and for acting as a guardian angel to some of the residents at the Tuscola County Medical Care Community who could not always speak for themselves.

Ann is survived by children, Jason (Lisa Moran) McKinney and Heather (Robert) Radick; grandchildren, Kyle Boyer, Aaron Boyer, Aubrey (Nicki) McKinney, Cole Moran, and Danyelle Moran-McKinney; great-granddaughter, Everley; sister, Paula Story; and brothers, David Story and Shawn Story; as well as many nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of the Tuscola County Medical Care Community for their loving care of Ann during her time with them. Their kindness will always be remembered.

In accordance with Ann’s wishes, cremation is to take place, with a memorial service planned for a later date at the Tuscola County Medical Care Community. Ann’s final resting place will be at Shawmut Cemetery in Valley, Alabama. Memorials may be made to the Tuscola County Medical Care Community, 1285 Cleaver Road, Caro, MI.

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05/26/2026

David Kenneth Wagner

God welcomed another angel in heaven on Monday, May 4, 2026. David passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones at 78 years young. David was born in Caro on August 4, 1947 to the late Kenneth and Viola Wagner.

David enjoyed many hobbies, including hunting, fishing, camping, watching wildlife, feeding backyard critters, and tinkering in the barn. He especially loved traveling, whether on a short vacation or riding his motorcycle with friends from the V2 Gold Wing Road Riders. David had a witty sense of humor and loved making people laugh. He also had a gift for befriending strangers and was always interested in hearing their life story.

David married the late Karla Wagner on April 15, 1976. He was the father of Michelle Turner, Susan Schmeckebier, and Kristie (Kevin) Begeman, and the grandfather of John, Tristan, Andrew, Wicked, Nichole, and Alexander. He was proceeded in death by his sister, Eunice Lynn.

In accordance with David’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Memorial service is planned for June 2, 2026 at Ransford Funeral Home in Caro, Michigan. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The service will begin at 3:00 p.m. and will be officiated by Rev. Michele Hile.

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05/24/2026

David Earl Mattlin

David Earl Mattlin of Caro, age 80, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 22, 2026, at MyMichigan Medical Center in Saginaw. He was born on July 6, 1945, the son of the late Earl F. and Evelyn (Martin) Mattlin, Jr. Dave graduated from Caro High School in 1963 and attended Concordia Lutheran Junior College from 1963 to 1965. During high school, he worked with a local DJ helping organize teen dances and while attending college, he worked summers at the Caro State Hospital. On August 27, 1966, David married the love of his life, the former, Diana Singer, at the Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer in Evansville, Indiana. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and service to their community. Dave devoted his life to public service and protecting the Caro community he dearly loved.

In April 1968, Dave began his law enforcement career with the Tuscola County Sheriff Department, serving as a Deputy Sheriff under Sheriff Hugh Marr until December 1, 1970. He then joined the Caro Police Department, where he faithfully served from 1970 until 1996 as a patrolman under Chiefs Clayton Montei, Ken Ball, Ron Iseler, and Ben Page. On July 1, 1974, Dave joined the Caro Fire Department as a paid on-call firefighter. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 1981 and became Fire Chief in 1982, serving in that role while continuing full-time police duties. In 1996, after retiring from the police department, he became full-time Fire Chief and Zoning Administrator for the City of Caro. He retired as a full-time employee in July 2010 but continued serving the department as Command Advisor to Chief Randy Heckroth until 2019.

Dave’s dedication extended beyond his professional career. He served on the City of Caro Charter Commission and was an active volunteer with Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child alongside Diana through St. Paul Lutheran Church in Caro, also serving for many years as Caro Area Drop-Off Center coordinators. A lifelong member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Dave faithfully served as an Elder, Congregational Chairman, and Finance Committee collector over the years. He was also active in Michigan Lutheran Marriage Encounter and, together with Diana, chaired the Lutheran Marriage Encounter Prayer Chain.

Dave enjoyed Civil War history and traveling to Civil War battlefields, touring Michigan lighthouses, camping, pulling weeds in Diana’s flower garden, and photographing flowers, birds, and butterflies. His gentle spirit, sense of humor, unwavering faith, and lifelong dedication to serving others will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Dave leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife of nearly sixty years, Diana; children, Kimberly (Chris) Ashcraft and Michael (Cheryl) Mattlin; grandchildren, Alex Odorico and Echo (Luke) Vesper; step-granddaughter, Jodi (Greg) Rynearson; step-great-grandson, Coby (Jade) Fetting; brother, Martin Mattlin; several nieces, nephews, and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Earl F. Mattlin III.

Dave’s funeral service will be on Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Caro. Dave’s family will be present to receive visitors on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at the Ransford Funeral Home in Caro from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and again at church on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of his service.

At Dave’s request, please do not send flowers, if you wish to give an expression of sympathy it is asked to consider memorial contributions to the Caro Volunteer Fire Department, Samaritan’s Purse, or St. Paul Lutheran Church Education Fund.

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05/23/2026

Alvina Jane Skinner

Alvina Jane Skinner of Caro, age 79, passed away on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Covenant Medical Center – Cooper in Saginaw. Alvina was born on May 29, 1946, in Cass City, Michigan, to the late Vernon and Bernice (Fletcher) Skinner. She married Charles Skinner in 1964, and the couple spent over 33 years of marriage together until his passing on August 23, 1997. Alvina loved to paint, spending her time decorating statues at Midwest Products, and making sure everything was just right around the house. She treasured time spent outdoors, especially walking through her garden and enjoying the flowers she grew. Alvina was deeply devoted to her family, showing her love and care for them with her funny and one-of-a-kind personality, and the love that she shared will be a lasting legacy in all of their hearts.

Alvina is survived by children, Ruth Ann (Steve) Skinner, Barb (Charles) Goodman, Chuck Skinner, and Embery (Steven) Pomeroy; sixteen grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren; brothers, Jim (Cathy) Skinner and Ray (Julianna) Skinner; brother, Vernon (Judy) Skinner; sisters, Ada Parker and Pam (Mark) Szmanski; and significant other Larry Giddings, who her grandchildren came to know lovingly as “Papa;” as well as many nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends.

Alvina was preceded in death by grandson, Ian Pomeroy; brothers, Alfred (Rosemary) Skinner, Donald (Dortha) Fletcher, and Maylen (Patricia) Skinner.

A funeral service for Alvina will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Ransford Funeral Home – Caro, 205 West Sherman Street, with Pastor Arnold Burger presiding. Visitation will take place at the funeral home from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Memorial contributions may be made to The Cure Starts Now Foundation, 10280 Chester Road, Cincinnati, OH 45215.

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05/19/2026

Frieda Bell Wilson

Frieda Bell Wilson of Caro, age 96, passed away on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the Tuscola County Medical Care Community. She was born on October 31, 1929, in Elmwood Township, the daughter of the late Ira and Honor (McLeod) Wilson.

Frieda was a graduate of Caro High School and later established her own sign-painting business, sharing her remarkable artistic talent and elegant penmanship with the community she loved. Local businesses proudly displayed her handcrafted signs, including Turner’s Blueberry Farm and McLeod Realty.

A devoted member of Caro Church of the Nazarene, Frieda was deeply involved in her church family and found great joy in serving others.

She was often tending her garden and caring for her flowers. Frieda also could be found working on crossword puzzles and spending quiet hours reading. Above all, she cherished the companionship of her beloved cats.

Left to cherish Frieda’s memory are her nieces and nephews, Carla (James) Hickie, Brian (Karmen) Wilson, Rev. Charles (Carol) Allen, Patricia (Robert) Hosmer, and Merrit (Gloria) Allen; cousins; special friends, Susan (Bryan) Muska; and her entire church family at Caro Church of the Nazarene. In addition to her parents, Frieda was preceded in death by her siblings, Beatrice Allen and Bernard Wilson.

In keeping with Frieda's wishes, cremation has taken place and there will be a private service planned at a later time. Memorials may be made to the wishes of the family, c/o Susan Muska, 205 West Sherman Street, Caro, MI 48723.

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