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Ransford Funeral Home - Sebewaing

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Ransford Funeral Home - Sebewaing

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Office hours most days are Monday through Friday 8am-4pm. Please call for an appointment or information 989-883-2720.

Thank you for visiting Juengel & Mellendorf Funeral Home's website. We have designed this site to be a simple yet powerful tool for you to use. We think you'll find your visit helpful and hope you come back whenever we can be of service. Gia Mellendorf-Gremel
Owner/Manager/Funeral Director

10/05/2026

Mark James Ewald

Mark James Ewald of Akron, age 66, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, October 2, 2026, while at his home. He was born on December 4, 1959 in Cass City, the son of the late James and Edith (Schuch) Ewald. Farming was embedded in Mark’s soul from an early age. He grew up on Loren-Ewald Farms as one of eight children, where tending the fields and caring for the cows quickly became a way of life. It was there that Mark developed a love for farming that would remain with him throughout his entire life.

Mark attended Unionville-Sebewaing Area Schools and graduated with the Class of 1978. He continued his education at Ferris State University, where he earned a degree in Diesel Mechanics. On September 1, 2019, Mark married the love of his life, Linnaea Fischer, at The Grand in Essexville. Although their love came later in life, it was something Mark and Linnaea treasured deeply and never took for granted.

Mark worked at Sebewaing Industries for several years and later served as a supervisor at Northern Tube in Pinconning. While he took pride in his work, his true passion was always the farm. He continued farming throughout his life and found great satisfaction in a hard day’s work and caring for the land.

Mark was rarely one to sit still, but he could always make time to tell a good story. His quick wit and sense of humor made him a captivating storyteller who could easily bring laughter to those around him. When it came to his nieces and nephews, Mark was often just one of the kids himself and never passed up an opportunity to join in the fun. He spent many summers playing softball in tournaments around Unionville and was always willing to step in and umpire when needed.

Above all, Mark was a loyal and accepting man who was never quick to judge others. He was the kind of person who would truly give the shirt off his back to help someone in need. He was a true animal lover and had a special place in his heart for the animals he cared for over the years. In his free time, he enjoyed traveling with Linnaea, playing horseshoes with his friends, and simply spending time with the people who meant the most to him.

Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife, Linnaea; children, Stacie and Jack; siblings and their spouses, Joanne & Dave Hills, Cindy & Bern Coppolino, Christine & Ken Moore, Lynn & Lynda Ewald, Jamie & Beth Ewald, Jody & Dale Smith, and Kyle & Tracy Ewald; siblings-in-law and their spouses, Becky & Bill Faller, Cindy Jenkins, Susan & Neil Schumann, Lauri Fischer, Harvey & Kelli Fischer, Treasa Ross-Fischer, and Pam Erb; and many beloved nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Mark was preceded in death by his parents-in-law, Ernest and Vermelda Fischer; siblings-in-law, Charlindia & Mark Kent, Steven Fischer, and Bob Erb.

Mark’s memorial service will be on Friday, October 16, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at the Ransford Funeral Home in Sebewaing. Mark’s family will be present to receive visitors from 10:00 a.m. until the time of his service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to Tuscola County Animal Shelter or the wishes of the family.

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09/21/2026

Alan James Prokopenko of Akron, age 59, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Friday, September 18, 2026. Alan was born in Bay City, Michigan, on November 8, 1966, to the late James Prokopenko and Nettie (Pobanz) Prokopenko and was a 1985 graduate of USA High School. He met Sally Thrush on a blind date, and it was love at first sight; the pair would marry on March 6, 2007, and share nearly 20 years of companionship. She survives him. Alan retired from Nexteer in 2016 and spent his free time cruising the Thumb and Florida for yard and estate sales. He enjoyed spending time in the outdoors, hunting and fishing throughout the region, and could often be found on his Harley when the weather was nice. He could also be found spending his winters in Sebring, Florida with Sally by his side. Alan was a loving and sociable family man who was the life of every party and made friends everywhere he went. Anyone asked to describe him would laughingly call him a card or a jokester and there wasn’t a person who got to know him that didn’t like him.

Alan is survived by his loving wife, Sally; children, Kayla (Justin Wright) Prokopenko, Rachelle Daws, Nathaniel (Stacey Raak) Daws, and Jessie David; grandchildren, Hunter Myers, Jayci Jo Myers, Austin Hancock, Benjamin Daws, Braelynn Daws, Grayson Daws, Oakley Daws, and Lily Kuhl; two great grandchildren; sister, JoAnn (Michael Perri) Rasmussen; and nieces and nephew, Jordyn (Brenden) Ricker, Shane (Priscilla) Rasmussen, and Taylor (Zane Wright) Rasmussen who lovingly called him “Mooches;” as well as many other family members and the countless friends who knew him as the “Mayor of Wisner.”

Alan was preceded in death by his parents, James Prokopenko and Nettie (Pobanz) Prokopenko, and brother-in-law, Dean Rasmussen.

A memorial gathering for Alan will be held from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at Ransford Funeral Home – Sebewaing, 538 South Beck Street, Sebewaing. The gathering will conclude with a time of sharing starting at 7:00 p.m. Cremation is to follow. Those wanting to make an expression of their sympathy may consider a contribution to the family discretionary fund, with checks made payable to Sally Prokopenko.

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09/21/2026

Robert Ernest Fritz

Robert Ernest Fritz of Unionville, age 82, passed away on Monday, September 21, 2026, at home surrounded by his family. He was born on July 22, 1944, in Bay City, the son of the late Ernest and Eva (Gangler) Fritz. Bob graduated from Unionville-Sebewaing High School with the Class of 1962.

On December 5, 1964, Bob married the love of his life, the former Diane Hofmeister, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Sebewaing. Together, they shared nearly sixty-two years of marriage, raised three children, and made countless memories along the way. Bob and Diane are members of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Bach.

Farming was a way of life for Bob. He spent his entire life working the land and co-owned F & K Farms with his best friend, George Kovach, until George’s passing. Their sons, Darren Fritz and Jason Kovach, carried on the tradition and took over the family business. Even after stepping back from the day-to-day work, Bob never really left farming behind. He remained active until last year and was still offering advice earlier this season.

When he wasn’t farming, Bob enjoyed ice fishing and deer hunting. He was a NASCAR fan and always enjoyed rooting for the Detroit Tigers. In his younger years, he also had a love for racing, whether it was snowmobiles or even chainsaws.

Bob was a quiet and somewhat shy man who never needed many words to let his family know how much they meant to him. He will be remembered for his dedication to farming, his strong work ethic, and above all, the love he had for his family.

Bob leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Diane; children, Sherri (Troy Schaus) Appold, Shelly (Mike) Burza, and Darren (Kim) Fritz; seven grandchildren, Sarah Appold, Joshua (Chelsea) Appold, Danae (Tyler) Gray, Danielle (Landon) Brabo, Jordan Fritz, Erika Fritz, and Zach Fritz; six great-grandchildren, Gianna, Brooks, Leo, Myles, Banks, and Bentley; brother, Wayne (Anna) Fritz; sister, Nancy Niester; brothers-in-law, Jim (Kathy) Hofmeister and Don (Brenda) Hofmeister; many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Ernest and Eva (Gangler) Fritz and business partner, George Kovach, Bob was preceded in death by his grandson, Dawson; sister, Diane Schember; and brothers-in-law, LeRoy Schember and Bernard Niester.

Bob’s funeral service will be on Friday, September 25, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church Bach, 9667 Bach Rd, Sebewaing, MI 48759. Rev. Thom Garrison will officiate with the burial following at the church cemetery. The family will be present to receive visitors on Friday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Bob’s service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Bach or a charity of the donor’s choice.

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09/14/2026

Bernice Ruth Torma

Bernice Ruth (Nickle) Torma of Unionville, age 103, passed away on Friday, September 11, 2026 while at Tuscola County Medical Care Facility. She was born at the Nickle’s family farm in Reese on January 24, 1923, the daughter of the late Albert and Helen (Obertein) Nickle. She attended Reese High School and graduated with the Class of 1941.

On June 20, 1946, she married Steve Torma at the Gilford Methodist Church and they spent over thirty wonderful years together before Steve’s passing on July 7, 1982. Steve and Bernice were longtime members of Trinity Methodist Church in Sebewaing. No matter where she worshiped throughout her life, Bernice’s faith in the Lord remained steadfast and unwavering.

She will be remembered for her love of life and her incredible talent for baking. Strong-willed and resilient, she lived through a century of remarkable change and witnessed many defining moments in history. Her strength, determination, and the life she lived made her a remarkable woman and an inspiration to those who knew her.

Left to cherish Bernice’s memory are her grandsons and their spouses, Mark & Dorice Torma and John & Brenda Torma; great-granddaughters, Corinn Torma and Cambree Torma; and sister, June Nickle. In addition to her parents and husband, Bernice was preceded in death by her son, George Torma; and sisters, Alice Redwanz and Phyllis VanPetten.

Bernice’s funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Ransford Funeral Home- Sebewaing with Pastor Brian Reinhardt officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Bernice will be laid to rest at Memorial Park Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to Tuscola County Medical Care Facility.

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09/08/2026

Donald James LaPratt

Donald James LaPratt of Cheyenne, Wyoming, age 61, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, September 6, 2026. He was born September 16, 1964 in Cass City, the son of the late Douglas and Betty (Molnar) LaPratt. Don graduated from Unionville-Sebewaing Area Schools with the Class of 1983.

Don loved living in Wyoming, where he was surrounded by the natural beauty he appreciated so much. He especially enjoyed hunting and spending time outdoors, but he was just as content simply taking in the breathtaking mountain views. The mountains held a special place in his heart. His years in Wyoming gave him the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in a place that truly felt like home.

Left to cherish Don’s memory are his twin daughters, Brianna Kyle and Jennifer LaPratt; grandchildren, Tristan, Elena, Prue, Lilly, and Logan; siblings, Douglas LaPratt Jr., Mark (Julee) LaPratt, Debra Sy, and Susan (Dean Sweeney) Mardlin. In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his brother, Gordon LaPratt; and sister-in-law, Pat LaPratt.

There are no services planned at this time. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the wishes of the family, c/o Brianna Kyle, 3805 Victoria Drive, Unit B, Cheyenne, WY 82009.

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09/01/2026

James Robert Pobanz

James Robert Pobanz of Sebewaing, age 73, went home to the Lord on Monday, August 31, 2026, leaving a space in our hearts that can never be filled.

James was born November 3, 1952, in Detroit, son of the late Jack and Alice (Pritchard) Campbell. His faith was deeply personal and lived within his heart, and we find comfort knowing that he is now at peace in God’s loving arms.

After more than twenty years of caring for others as a nurse, it was finally Dad's turn to be cared for-with the same love and devotion he so freely given. His wife and daughters were honored to be by his side, caring for him with all the love he had given them.

His stories and joking were part of his personality and the memories we will miss most. He loved to joke around, make people laugh, and sometimes tell a story more than once, but somehow, it was funnier every time.

He found joy in the things he loved most, like playing solitaire, watching his beloved Detroit Lions and Detroit Pistons, and fishing. He loved turning the music up loud and filling the room with the songs he enjoyed. He had a special love for his old muscle cars and motorcycles. But above all these things, his greatest joy was being a husband, a father, and Papa. His grandchildren held a very special place in his heart, and there was nothing he loved more than spending time with them, making them laugh, spoiling them, and watching them grow. Being their Papa was one of the greatest blessings of his life, and the love he had for them will live on forever in their hearts and in the memories they share of him.

James’ greatest love was his wife of fifty-three years, Paula, the woman he loved and chose to walk through life with. She was his partner, his best friend, and the person who stood beside him through it all.

James is lovingly remembered by his daughters, Jacqueline Sting, and her husband, Michael Sting; Elizabeth Satchell, and her husband, Paul Satchell; his cherished grandchildren, Chloee, Cailee, Brady, and Evan; and his beloved sister, Jackie Henry. He also leaves behind many extended family members, nieces and nephews, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness, humor, and generous spirit.

Shortly before his passing, James was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Even in the face of this devastating disease, his strength and determination reflected the resilience that defined his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alice Pritchard and Jack Campbell, and his dear brother, David Pobanz.

Our family would like to extend our deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to Heartland Hospice for the compassion, kindness, and care they showed our dad during his final days. They brought him comfort and peace when he needed it most, treating him with dignity, gentleness, and genuine love. Their support not only cared for our dad but also brought comfort to our entire family during an incredibly difficult time.

A Celebration of Life will be on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at the American Legion Hall in Sebewaing. Military honors will be rendered at 2:30 p.m. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the wishes of the family, c/o Paula Pobanz.

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08/28/2026

Gary A. Cygan, aged 61, passed away on August 28, 2026. He resided in Sebewaing, MI. He was born on March 6, 1965, in Bay County to Eugene Richard Cygan and Margaret (Lapan) Cygan. He went to Essexville Garber school and completed a small engine course. Gary worked at Huron Castings for 21 years until it took a toll on his body and he could no longer work. Gary was married to Jenny Swartzendruber on Sept. 5, 1987, and had two beautiful daughters, Sarah Cygan Herman and Danielle Cygan Goslin. He enjoyed going up north and hanging out with his friends and family. He also enjoyed listening to old time rock and roll music and knew the artist for almost every song. Gary loved his grandchildren with all his heart; he had a great time when they went up north with him and enjoyed their special golf cart rides. He also enjoyed watching the Lions and NASCAR races, having his friends hang out in his garage playing 7's or foosball, or just shooting the breeze.

Gary is survived by his wife, Jenny; his daughters, Sarah (Matt) Herman and Danielle Goslin; his grandchildren, Korbin Herman, Colton Goslin, and Taylor Goslin, his brothers, David (Courtney) Cygan and Mike Cygan, sisters-in-law, Penny Cygan and Jackie Cygan; and special “forever friends,” Pat and Shelley Strope and Jeff Hammond; as well as many special friends and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene & Margaret Cygan and his brothers, Eugene, Bill, and Mark Cygan.

A celebration of life will be held at 4:00 p.m. on September 26, 2026, at the Sebewaing American Legion Hall, 8255 Unionville Road, Sebewaing, MI 48759. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Toni and Trish House, 4699 11 Mile Rd, Auburn, MI 48611, or to the wishes of the family, with checks made payable to Jenny Cygan.

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08/19/2026

Gene Orville Beitz of Gagetown, age 87, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, August 17, 2026, while at Bay View Gardens in Sebewaing. He was born December 12, 1938 in Caro, the son of the late Orville and Emma (Gaeth) Beitz. Gene attended elementary at St. Paul Lutheran School before graduating from Unionville High School with the Class of 1956. Gene proudly served as a member of the National Guard and later remained in the Reserves.

Gene has been a lifelong member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and his relationship with God has remained a constant throughout every season of his life. This faith has influenced the way he worked, loved, raised his family, and faced both life’s blessings and its hardships. Gene has always carried his faith with him, trusting in God’s plan and finding strength and comfort in knowing that He was beside him every step of the way.

Gene first found love when he met Carol Kuhl. The two were married on November 2, 1963, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Unionville. Together, they raised two children and built a wonderful life centered around family, faith, and hard work. For more than forty years, Gene and Carol shared life side by side until her passing on March 23, 2007.

In time, Gene was blessed to find companionship and love once again when he met Margaret “Penny” Ellen née Drake. On October 19, 2013, the two were married at the Frankenmuth Chapel. Gene and Penny spent nearly thirteen years enjoying life and one another’s company, creating another chapter filled with love and companionship until her unexpected passing on August 8, 2026.

Growing up on a farm taught Gene the meaning of hard work at an early age, and it was something he never strayed far from. Farming remained a lifelong part of who he was, but his strong work ethic also led him beyond the fields. Gene spent just over eleven years working for General Motors in Flint and also for Steering Gear in Saginaw. No matter the job in front of him, Gene was never afraid to roll up his sleeves and get to work.

Even in his free time, Gene rarely sat idle. He could often be found tinkering away in his shed, always looking for something that needed to be mended, repaired, or made useful again.

Some of his greatest enjoyment, however, came from the time he spent with his family. He loved going on bike rides with his wife and granddaughter, and when his children were young, camping became a favorite family pastime. Those trips became part of the many memories his family would carry with them. As he grew older and life became a little quieter, Gene developed a fascination with television shows, including game shows, the Lawrence Welk Show, and RFD T.V. He also enjoyed listening to Country and Polka music on the radio.

Through each chapter of his life, Gene remained grounded in the things that mattered most to him: his faith, his family, and an honest day’s work. His life was one shaped by devotion, those he loved, and to the responsibilities placed before him.

Left to cherish Gene’s memory are his children, Dale (Connie) Beitz of Lansing, Ann Beitz of Mt. Morris; granddaughter, Mandy of Mt. Morris; two step-grandchildren; three step-great grandchildren; sister, Donna (Carl) Hiser of Caro; and brother-in-law, Mert Hessler of Sachse, Texas; and also many nieces, nephews, and close family friends. In addition to his parents, Gene was preceded in death by his wives, Carol and Penny.

Gene’s funeral service will be on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Unionville with Rev. Steven Stolarczyk officiating. The family will be present to receive visitors from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Following the service he will be laid to rest at Columbia Township Cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to St. Paul Lutheran Church or American Cancer Society.

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08/19/2026

Notice: The service details for Alan Rundell have been updated.

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

08/02/2026

Alan John “Rundy” Rundell of Sebewaing, age 76, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, July 31, 2026. Alan was born on June 8, 1950, in Pigeon, Michigan, to the late Wesley Jr. and Evelyn (Fritz) Rundell and was a 1968 graduate of Sebewaing High School. He spent the majority of his working years with General Motors, retiring out of Bay City after 30 years with the company. Alan married Luann Koehler on July 6, 1985, and the couple would together raise two beloved daughters, as well as countless dogs and other animals. She survives him.

In his retirement, Alan stayed busy hauling beets at the Michigan Sugar Company and spending as much time outdoors as he could. He was a fantastic fisherman who spent time every weekend with his friends on the waters of the Saginaw Bay. In addition to fishing, Alan loved hunting, w**e making, and was an avid coin collector. He enjoyed a few trips to Vegas. Anyone asked to describe Alan would start with a laugh or smile. He was a funny and social man who had something of a wild streak in his younger years. He was hardheaded but hard-working, providing for his family above all, and leaves endless stories, jokes, and memories in the hearts of all that knew him.

Alan is survived by wife, Luann Rundell; daughters, Kendra A. (Justin) Hornbacher and Kelsey L. (Bradley) Chrcek; granddaughter, Scarlett Chrcek; and brother, Wes Rundell III; as well as nephew, Wesley.

In addition to his parents, Alan was preceded by his sister, Carol Rundell.

In accordance with Alan’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a memorial service celebrating Alan’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Ransford Funeral Home – Sebewaing, 538 South Beck Street. Sebewaing, MI 48759, with Pastor Brad Haist officiating. Visitation will take place at the funeral home from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Memorials may be made to the Thumb Animal Shelter, 2260 South Elkton Road, Elkton, MI 48731.

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Address

538 S Beck Street
Sebewaing, MI
48759

Opening Hours

Monday	8am - 4pm
Tuesday	8am - 4pm
Wednesday	8am - 4pm
Thursday	8am - 4pm
Friday	8am - 4pm

Telephone

+19898832720

Website

http://www.ransfordfuneralhome.com/

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