W. L. Case and Company

08/27/2026

08/26/2026

Skaidrite Gibietis

At age 99, Skaidrite “Skye” Gibietis left us on Sunday, August 23, 2026, peacefully at her home, surrounded by her twin daughters, Dinah and Edith. She was an inspiration to many, overcoming war, occupation, displacement, and resettling in the United States to establish a vast network of family and friends.

Skye was born in Stende, Latvia, on February 27, 1927, to Emma and Karlis Baumanis. She had an older brother, Bruno (Daina), who predeceased her. She married Edmund Gibietis on July 12, 1946, while in a displaced persons camp in Germany. Their first daughter, Andra, was born in Germany, followed by their son, Artis. In April 1950, the Gibietis family secured passage on a U.S. Army transport ship, the General Tyler, heading to the United States, having been sponsored by St. John’s Lutheran Church in Saginaw, Michigan. The church was instrumental in getting the family settled in housing and employment. The twins were born in 1954, after the family arrived in Michigan.

Skye’s pastimes included duplicate bridge, singing, and playing piano with her Latvian singing group. An avid member of the Latvian Lutheran Church and the Saginaw Latvian Club, she also worked as a clerical worker at Borden Dairy for 26 years. She was instrumental in caring for four grandchildren, Brittney, Alex, Max, and Jessica, from birth to school age, with help from her mother, who passed away in 1994 at the age of 101.

She was predeceased by her husband, Edmund, in 1985, and her son, Artis (Daina) Gibietis, in January 2026. Surviving are her daughters, Andra (Peter) Privert, Dinah (Charles) Kretschmer, and Edith (David) Sommers; eight grandchildren, Nick (Cassie) Gibietis, Mikel (Kayleen) Privert, Erik (Kate) Privert, Elli (Jay) Kaprosy, Brittney (Luke) Gray, Alex (Ginger) Kretschmer, Max Kretschmer, and Jessica (Andrew Vidulich) Sommers; and nine great-grandchildren, Bremer and Maija Kaprosy, Ellis and Zoey Skye Privert, Emory Gibietis, Lucas and Holden Privert, and Ina Skye and Oskar Kretschmer.

A funeral service will take place at 3:00 p.m. Friday, September 4, 2026 at the W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 4480 Mackinaw Rd. Rev. Biruta Puike-Wilson will officiate with private interment to follow. Friends are welcome to visit with the family on Friday from 12:00 noon until the time of the funeral service. Please share your words of condolence and memories of Skye with the family at www.casefuneralhome.com

View Skaidrite Gibietis's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/26/2026

Jerry A. Busch

Jerry Alan Busch of James Township, Michigan

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend passed away peacefully, with his family by his side, on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at Covenant HealthCare – Harrison, at the age of 86 years. Jerry was born on June 11, 1940, in Saginaw, Michigan, to the late Frank and Ann (Nizinski) Busch. He was a proud 1958 graduate of Arthur Hill High School. Following graduation, Jerry began working for General Motors as a tool grinder, retiring after many years of loyal and dedicated service. He married the love of his life, Dorothy Marie Simmet, on February 6, 1965; she survives him. Jerry was a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church, volunteered as an usher, a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 8808, and Shields Men’s Club. A lifelong resident of James Township, Jerry civically served his community in the most profound way possible, by selflessly volunteering with the James Township Fire Department for over 50 years. He believed in helping others and volunteered with both Habitat for Humanity and the East Side Soup Kitchen. An avid outdoors man, he loved John Deere, especially tractors, and he took pride in a well-manicured lawn, planting all the trees in his yard, and gardening. Always on the move and never one to sit still, Jerry enjoyed tinkering on his pride and joy his 1969 Chevy C10 pickup truck in his barn and using his mind and hands to build and create anything from scratch. Of all the roles he held throughout his life, none was more meaningful to him than being a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Family was the heart of Jerry’s life, and he was always present for all his children and grandchildren’s sporting and school events and family gatherings around the Bonfires. He will forever be remembered for his famous Sunday morning breakfasts, especially his scrambled eggs with peppers and Spatz bread toast.

Surviving are his wife of 61 years, Dorothy Busch; four children and their spouses: Janice Dunn, Kathleen Danilowicz, Mark (Michelle) Busch, and Lori (Wesly) Burrell; eight grandchildren: Austin Root, Dalton Root, Andrew (Abbe) Danilowicz, Ashley (Derek) Resio, Alex (Mariah) Madden, Matthew Busch, Rachel Burrell, and Angela Burrell; a great-granddaughter, Josephine Danilowicz with a great-granddaughter on the way, Oakley Resio; two brothers, Randy Busch and Alan (Diana) Busch. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Ann Busch; and a son-in-law, James Andrew Danilowicz.

A funeral liturgy will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 28, 2026, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 1035 N. River Rd., Saginaw, MI 48609. Rev. Fr. Peter J. Gaspeny will officiate. Rite of Committal will follow at St. Andrew Cemetery. Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the W. L. Case and company Funeral Directors, 201 N. Miller Rd., Saginaw, MI 48609 on Thursday, August 27, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Jerry will lie in state at the church on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass at 11:00 a.m. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to James Township Fire Association. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home, church, or through www.casefuneralhome.com.

View Jerry A. Busch's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/26/2026

Lawrence J. Selley

Lawrence Jefferson Selley passed away peacefully on August 23, 2026, with his children by his side. Larry was born August 12, 1929, to John and Ellen Selley. After graduating from Grayling High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving nearly 5 years.

Upon returning home, he settled in Chicago and attended art school. It was in Chicago he met Anita Rico, they married in May 1956, moved to Saginaw, and built a home for their growing family. He served his community through more than 30 years with the United States Postal Service.

He was a creative talented artist, producing many treasured works of art for the family. He loved to play the harmonica and sing for his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren creating lifelong memories.

Proud and self-reliant, he rarely wanted to ask for help, yet he was always ready to lend a hand when someone else needed one.

Larry is survived by his loving children, Debra Acosta, Michael Selley, Martin (Olga) Selley, Carla (Ernest) Espinoza, Ellen (Pete) Allington, Laura (Bob) Dise, Teresa Rojas, twenty-two grandchildren, thirty-nine great grandchildren. His sisters Diane (Phil) Scholten, Geri Danks, Trish (Lou) Bassett, brother Bill Selley and sister-in-law Chris Rico. Many nieces, nephews and close friends.

He was predeceased by his wife Anita, daughter Kathy, daughter-in-law Lesa, son-in-law Joey, granddaughter Carisa, great grandchildren Anesa, Quintin, Brekkin, and Trentin. As well as 8 brothers and 6 sisters.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 4480 Mackinaw Rd., Saginaw, MI 48603, where Military Honors will be held under the auspices of the United States Army and American Legion Post 439. Honoring Lawrence's wishes cremation will take place following the service. Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the funeral chapel on Friday from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm, as well as Saturday morning from 10:00 am until the time of service.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a donation in honor of Larry to Doctors Without Borders, Smile Train, American Cancer Society, or American Diabetes Association.

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

08/25/2026

Michael S. Spakowski Sr.

Michael S. Spakowski Sr

Saginaw Michigan

Loving husband, father grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend passed away Monday August 24, 2026, at the age of 77 years. He was born on September 23, 1948, in New London, Connecticut, the son of the late Charles and Helen (Lisiecky) Spakowski Sr.

Michael married Dianne R. Schanhals on July 4, 1999, and Dianne survives him. Michael retired from the Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center in 2014.

He served in the US Army during the Vietnam war, Mike was a member of the VFW, former Boy Scout Leader. He also had a love for the outdoors which included hunting, fishing, gardening, cutting his lawn, grilling, and so much more. Michael had great love for his family, especially his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren which all loved his PAPA snacks.

Mike is survived by his wife Dianne Spakowski; his children Michael Spakowski Jr.; daughter Crystal Ward; five brothers, Charles Spakowski Jr., Paul Spakowski, Carl “Pokey” Spakowski, Harold “Harry” Spakowski, Timothy “Tiny” Spakowski,; two step sons, Michael (Paula) Beevers, and Charles “Scott” Beevers; nine grandchildren; Lindsay, Elizabeth, Brittany, Jordan, Tyler, Jillian, Cadence, Michael III, and Larke; loving PAPA to his five great-grandchildren, Adalynn, Josie, Easton, Charlotte, and Presley; his former wife and the mother of his children, Lorraine Brief; many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents Mike was predeceased by one brother and one sister, William “Bill” Spakowski, and Linda Peltler.

As this chapter closes, the story of Michael S. Spakowski Sr. will live on through the memories and love he cultivated in the hearts of all blessed to have known him. The family would like to thank American Hospice for all their care they gave Mike the last few weeks.

A Funeral service will take place 6:00 p.m. Sunday August 30, 2026, at the W.L. Case and Company Funeral Chapel 4480 Mackinaw Rd. Rev James Doran will officiate. Private family burial will take place later in Great Lakes National Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home on Sunday from 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider the American Cancer Society. Arrangements entrusted to W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors. Please share your words of condolence with the family at www.casefuneralhome.com

View Michael S. Spakowski Sr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/24/2026

Phillip John Mauch

Phillip John Mauch, a lifelong resident of Saginaw, Michigan, passed away on August 24, 2026. He was a man who lived life on his own terms, leaving behind a legacy of cherished memories and a trail of impressive vehicles. Born on January 18, 1961, Phillip was the son of Theodore Albert Mauch and Teresa Marie (St. Laurent) Mauch. He grew up in Saginaw and graduated from Arthur Hill High School, setting the stage for a life dedicated to hard work and a passion for the open road.

Phillip spent his career as a truck driver as a mail contractor, a role that allowed him to see many miles and experience the freedom of the highway. His dedication to his work was evident in his steadfast commitment.

He was a proud member of the VFW Post 1566 auxillary, where he dedicated much of his time to the club. He also served as the Sargent at Arms for a number of years. Being able to volunteer and help was a great source of pride for him.

Phillip was best known for his love of cars, particularly his prized 1966 Ford Mustang convertible and his wife’s classic 1967 Chevy Impala. He had recently just finished 505 miles, US Old 27 Motor Tour in the ’67 Impala. He had a way of making even the most mundane tasks feel adventurous, often charming his way through situations with his infamous line, 'just one more.' This playful spirit was a “Hallmark” of his personality, endearing him to all who knew him.

Beyond his passion for automobiles, Phillip found joy in the simple pleasures. His cars were more than just vehicles; they were a reflection of his zest for life and his appreciation for classic American engineering. He often spoke of his Mustang and Impala with a twinkle in his eye, a testament to the memories made behind the wheel.

He is survived by his loving wife, Susan Mauch; two brothers, Ted (Fonda) Mauch and Mark (Anita) Mauch; his in-laws, Don (Lou Anne) Yurgens and Rich (Darlene) Yurgens; sister-in-law, Nancy Mauch; and his special Godchildren, Dr. Kristalyn Mauch and Eliot Mauch; as well as many nieces and nephews who will hold his memory dear.

Alongside his parents, he is preceded in death by three brothers, Donald Mauch, James Mauch, and Thomas Mauch.

Phillip John Mauch will be remembered for his warm spirit, his engaging personality, and his enduring love for all things automotive. His presence will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

In accordance with Phillip's wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of his life is set to take place on Sunday, August 30, 2026 from 1:00pm to 5:00pm at the VFW Post 1566 clubroom, 132 S Oakley St, Saginaw, MI 48602.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a donation in honor of Phillip to the VFW Post 1566.

Please share your thoughts and memories with the family by visiting www.casefuneralhome.com

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

08/24/2026

Mary Lou Myrtle Hughes

Mary Lou Myrtle Hughes (Columbus), age 93, of Saginaw, MI, passed away on Sunday, August 23, 2026. Born on July 1, 1933, in Midland, MI, to Arthur and Myrtle Columbus, Mary Lou lived a life full of love, adventure, kindness, and a positive attitude every day of her life.

She was an entrepreneur for most of her life. She started Tyrrell Data Service in 1962 in the basement of her home until she outgrew that space and moved into an office building, operating three shifts that performed computer data entry. She also owned Merle Norman's Cosmetics, Gratiot Hall, Bay Road Hall, New York Toning & Tanning, and Creative Decorating.

Mary Lou was known for her love of dancing, inventing and building many things, and, most of all, for her kindness to everyone, whether family, friend, or stranger.

She is survived by her sons, Tom (Diana) Tyrrell and Dennis Tyrrell; daughter, LuAnn (Jeff) Smith; seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; sister, Lois Short; brother-in-law, John Rohde; as well as many nieces and nephews who will hold her memory dear.

Alongside her parents, Mary Lou was preceded in death by her brothers, Don Columbus and Dick Columbus; sister, Marjorie Rohde; daughter-in-law, Gina Tyrrell; and special friend, Doug Behr.

In accordance with her wishes, Mary Lou's body was donated for science to Wayne State University. Plans for a celebration of her life by her family are in progress and will take place at a later date.

View Mary Lou Myrtle Hughes's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

08/24/2026

Gerald E. LaLonde Jr.

Beloved husband, father, papa, brother and friend, passed away Friday, August 21, 2026. Age 68 years.

The son of the late Gerald E. and Joan C. (Kennedy) LaLonde, Jerry was born April 17, 1958, in Saginaw, MI. He graduated from Arthur Hill High School, class of 1977. Jerry proudly served 3 years in the United States Army. An avid sports fan, Jerry loved cheering on the Michigan Wolverines, especially football and baseball. He loved golfing with his friends. Above all, Jerry cherished time spent with family and friends, with his eight grandchildren being at the center of Jerry's life. He especially enjoyed watching them grow and seeing all their accomplishments. Jerry will forever be remembered for his kind and caring heart and for always helping those he loved.

Surviving are his wife Debbie LaLonde, daughter April (Michael) Reed; eight grandchildren: Courtnee, Kylee, Andrew, Natalee, Cameron, Cloey, Logan, and Allie; brother John Alan (Cindy) LaLonde, a cousin who was like his brother, Larry Fortier, his dog Coco, who he inherited from his daughter, Kelley, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends.

Along with his parents he was predeceased by his daughter Kelley LaLonde, two sisters: Vickie Sharon and Joy Ann Price, as well as his beloved dog, Tiger.

Funeral service will take place at 2:00 pm on Friday, August 28, 2026, at W. L. Case and Company, 4480 Mackinaw Rd., Saginaw, MI 48603. Burial will follow in Roselawn Memorial Gardens where Military Honors will be held under the auspices of the United States Army. Friends may visit with the family from 2:00pm - 8:00 pm on Thursday, August 27, 2026, as well as Friday afternoon from 1:00pm until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may make memorials to the wishes of the family c/o April Reed.

Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at www.casefuneralhome.com

View Gerald E. LaLonde Jr.'s obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.