Ransford Funeral Home - Sebewaing

Ransford Funeral Home - Sebewaing 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

James Robert Pobanz James Robert Pobanz of Sebewaing, age 73, went home to the Lord on Monday, August 31, 2026, leaving ...
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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Gary A. Cygan, aged 61, passed away on August 28, 2026. He resided in Sebewaing, MI. He was born on March 6, 1965, in Ba...
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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Gene Orville Beitz of Gagetown, age 87, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, August 17, 2026, while at Bay View Gard...
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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Notice: The service details for Alan Rundell have been updated.
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.

Alan John “Rundy” Rundell of Sebewaing, age 76, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, July 31, 2026. Alan was born on June...
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, wine 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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Gilbert Nijay SpragueGilbert Nijay Sprague of Owendale, age 69, passed away on Monday, July 20, 2026 at his home surroun...
07/21/2026

Gilbert Nijay Sprague

Gilbert Nijay Sprague of Owendale, age 69, passed away on Monday, July 20, 2026 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on May 20, 1957 in Pigeon, the son of the late Gilbert G. and Florence M. (Groh) Sprague. Gil graduated from Owendale High School with the class of 1976. It was in high school he met the love of his life, the former Joy Engelhardt. They were united in marriage on December 18, 1976. Together they shared nearly fifty years, two children, and countless memories.

Gil first worked at the Thumb Cooperative Terminal before spending 40 years at the Co-op Elevator in Elkton, where he retired. He was a former member of the Owendale Lions Club and enjoyed attending church and practicing his faith. Gil was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved hunting deer and turkeys and fishing until the sun went down. He especially enjoyed his fishing walleye tournaments with his teacher, Manuel Thies, and later with his brother, Brad. He was always willing to teach others to hunt and fish, especially children, helping pass those traditions on to the next generation.

Gil loved spending time with his grandchildren and was proud of them, often sharing stories about them. Although he was quiet and reserved, he could strike up a conversation with anyone and was remembered for the stories he shared. He also loved his dogs and treated them like members of the family. Gil's hard work, quiet strength, occasional stubbornness, and, above all, his love for his family will be deeply missed.

Gil leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Joy Sprague of Owendale; children, Heather Sprague of Sebewaing and Jeremy Sprague of Owendale; grandchildren, Stephen, Khaliyah, Elena, and Rowen Sprague; siblings, Kevin (Claudia) Sprague, Brian (Lupe Zaragoza) Sprague, Brad (Chona) Sprague, Jody (Craig Ozbat) Sprague, Tonya (Arnie) Gaeth; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Ken Engelhardt, Dave (Pat) Engelhardt, and Jeanette Bach; many nieces and nephews; and beloved dogs, Kody and Hope. In addition to his parents, Gil was preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Carl and Lorene Engelhardt; sister-in-law, Connie Engelhardt; and brother-in-law, Mike Bach.

Gil’s funeral service will be on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Sebewaing. Rev. Michael Boyer will officiate with the burial following at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery in Sebewaing. The family will be present to receive visitors on Friday, July 24, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Ransford Funeral Home in Sebewaing, and again on Saturday 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 Immanuel Lutheran Church, 800 East Bay St, Sebewaing, MI 48759 or a charity of the donor’s choice.

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Loran Cyriel VanBevern of Unionville, age 79, passed away on Saturday, July 4, 2026. Born December 15, 1946, Loran spent...
07/06/2026

Loran Cyriel VanBevern of Unionville, age 79, passed away on Saturday, July 4, 2026. Born December 15, 1946, Loran spent his entire life in Unionville, graduating from Unionville High School before attending Olivet College where he completed four years of study. During his time at Olivet, he proudly played football and was an active member of a fraternity, forming lifelong friendships and memories. Following graduation, Loran worked for Lee Wood Construction for several years before returning to the family farm. He joined his father and his sister, Marcia, in operating VanBevern Produce. Farming was far more than his occupation – it was his passion and his life’s work. He took great pride in caring for the land and continuing the family farming tradition.

A devoted member of Our Lady Consolata Parish, Loran’s faith was a guiding force throughout his life. He lived with humility, gratitude, and a deep commitment to his family, his church, and his community. Above all else, Loran loved his family. He treasured the time spent with those he loved and found his greatest joy in being surrounded by them. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, trapping, and ice fishing. Some of his happiest memories were made on the frozen waters during the long Michigan winters with the “Boyz of the Bay.” Those cold days were filled with friendship, laughter, stories, and camaraderie that he cherished throughout his life. Loran will be remembered for his strong work ethic, quiet strength, and generous heart

Loran was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Cyriel and Julia VanBevern.

Loran is survived by his loving wife, Diane VanBevern; daughters, April (Jon) Hetzner and Jessica (Andy) Krauss; cherished grandchildren, Gabe, Harper, Jax, and Julia; and sisters, Marcia (Jim) Weber, Beverly (Frankie) VanBevern, and Kay VanBevern; as well as several brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.

His legacy of faith, hard work, and unwavering devotion to family will live on in all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those whose lives he touched.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Loran will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Our Lady Consolata Parish, Holy Family Catholic Church, 8370 Unionville Road, Sebewaing, MI 48759, with Fr. Robert Pare' presiding. Visitation will take place immediately before the service on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Ransford Funeral Home – Sebewaing, 538 South Beck Steet, Sebewaing, MI 48759, after which time the family and those gathered will be invited to the church for Mass. Memorial contributions may be made to the wishes of the family, with checks made payable to Diane VanBevern.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to those who cared for him at Bayfield Assisted Living where he resided the last year and a half of his life.

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William “Bill” Edwin Roemer, Sr. of Deford, age 74, passed away on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at Covenant HealthCare in Sagin...
07/06/2026

William “Bill” Edwin Roemer, Sr. of Deford, age 74, passed away on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at Covenant HealthCare in Saginaw, surrounded by his family after a long battle with cancer. Bill was born on May 19, 1952, in Pigeon, to the late Edwin and Mildred (Ludwig) Roemer. He was raised on the family farm near Owendale and was always a farmer at heart, going for long drives to “crop check” and cutting the lawn. Bill graduated from Owendale-Gagetown High School in 1970 and farmed until 1986, then went to work at the Sebewaing Sugar Factory, Terra Company in Owendale, and Huron Castings in Pigeon before retiring in 2017. He married Connie (Rathje) Sutter in 2006. They loved to travel all over Michigan and the surrounding states. He always made sure there were plenty of snacks for the trip, especially Twizzlers licorice. Bill had an impressive collection of hats and pens that he continued to add to over the years and was also a big International Tractor fan. His grandchildren were truly the center of his world; whether attending their activities and events or simply spending time together, he cherished every moment with them. Bill also enjoyed relaxing with old black-and-white television shows.

Bill is survived by his wife, Connie; daughter, Christina (Chris) Bedore; daughter-in-law, Tressa (Brian Collette) Roemer; stepsons, David (Jyoti) Sutter and Zachary (Samantha) Sutter; grandchildren, Shelby (Gerica), Mia, Josie, Evan, Peyton, Nikhil, Rajin, Anjali, Madison, Brendon, Quintin, and Jerzee; brothers, John (Elizabeth) Roemer and Kenneth (Lu Ann) Roemer; sister, Patricia Koehler; father-in-law, Kenneth Rathje, Sr.; sister-in-law, Christine (Gerald) Morris; and brothers-in-law, Kenneth Rathje, Jr., John (Kristin) Rathje and Kevin (Vanessa) Mason; as well as many nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his son, William “Billy” Roemer, Jr.; mother-in-law, Dorothy Rathje; brother-in-law, Lee Koehler; godson, Chad Diebel; and great nephew, Hogan Roemer.

A funeral service for Bill will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 9476 Kilmanagh Road, Sebewaing, MI 48759, with Rev. Thom Garrison officiating. Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, July 10, at Ransford Funeral Home – Sebewaing, 538 S Beck Street, Sebewaing, MI 48759, and from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church on Saturday. Burial is to follow at St. John’s Cemetery. Memorials may be made to St. John Lutheran Church or the Relay for Life – Walking with Leggs.

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Lynn Gayle Zuzga of Caro, age 72, passed away on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. Though unexpected, her passing was peaceful i...
06/25/2026

Lynn Gayle Zuzga of Caro, age 72, passed away on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. Though unexpected, her passing was peaceful in her own home. Lynn was born on October 2, 1953, in Sebewaing, Michigan, to the late Arnold and Arlene (Martens) Kunish. She attended Lutheran grade school in Sebewaing before graduating from Sebewaing high school with the class of 1971. Lynn attended Bayshire Beauty Academy in Bay City and was the owner of Styles Plus in Sebewaing. Cosmetology was her great passion, but her true love and devotion was to her family. Lynn’s primary calling was as a wife, mother, and grandmother to many beloved family members. She married Daniel “Dan” Zuzga on March 2, 1979, and the couple raised a beautiful family who is left to cherish her memory. In her free time, Lynn loved baking for any special occasion, especially birthday cakes, and was a fantastic cook. She enjoyed crocheting and gardening, but most important to her was sharing any moment she could with the family that always put a big smile on her face.

Lynn is survived by her loving husband of over 47 years, Dan; children, Daniel (Ashley Deeg) Zuzga, Brian (Chris Prosowski) Zuzga, Jonathon Zuzga, and Kristina (Patrick) DeGroat; grandchildren, Courtney, Allison, Hunter, Jailyn, Nikolas, Kailey, Mason, Taylin, Abben, Braylin, and Noah; and siblings, Gary (Pat) McHalpine, LoAnn (Duane) Rieman, Susie McGathy, Tim (Maryann) McHalpine, Catherine (Jim) Butler, and Morley McHalpine; as well as many nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends.

Lynn was preceded in death by brothers, Tom McHalpine and Scott (Marsha) McHalpine; brother-in-law, Chuck McGathy; niece, Mary Beth Klein; and nephew, Scotty McHalpine.

A funeral service for Lynn will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 29, 2026, at Ransford Funeral Home – Sebewaing, 538 South Beck Street. Visitation will take place at the funeral home from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 28, and from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service on Monday. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choosing, or to the wishes of the family, with checks payable to Daniel Zuzga.

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Kari Lyne Campbell of Unionville, age 53, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, June 19, 2026, after battling hard against...
06/21/2026

Kari Lyne Campbell of Unionville, age 53, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, June 19, 2026, after battling hard against complications of a stroke. Kari was born on December 29, 1972, in Owosso, Michigan, to the late Dale and Linda (Harrison) Thornton. After graduating from Sanford Meridian high school, Kari pursued a calling in nursing that would share her kindness and giving nature with all who were lucky enough to meet her. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Delta College before starting her service to her community as a registered nurse, most recently with Aspire Rural Health System in Cass City. The shining example of Kari’s kindness and love is her cherished family; she raised two beautiful children in Hunter and Kylie and came to find companionship with Michael “Mike” Campbell, whom she married on September 3, 2021. They are left to honor her memory and legacy of giving. In her free time, Kari enjoyed spending time outside golfing, tending to her garden, or raising the many chicks and chickens that affectionately earned her the title of “chicken lady.” She is remembered as being a nurturing and loving woman whose grace will be missed by any who came to know her.

Kari is survived by husband, Mike Campbell; children, Hunter and Kylie Bohn; step-children, Brett and Jailyn Campbell; brothers, David (Daniel) Thornton, Brent Thornton, and Ryan Thornton; and sister, Morgan Novak; as well as many nieces, nephews, other family members, numerous friends, and the countless patients Kari cared for throughout the years.

In accordance with Kari’s wishes, cremation is to take place, with a celebration of life to be held at 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at Faithway Church, 3108 Rescue Road, Bad Axe, MI 48413, with Pastor Mike Beeler presiding. Memorial contributions may be made to the family, with checks payable to Michael Campbell.

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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

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+19898832720

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