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Berry Funeral Home, 106 W Wright Avenue, Shepherd, MI (2026)

10/10/2026

Jason Robert Henry

February 24, 1983 – October 7, 2026

Jason Robert Henry, 43, passed away on October 7, 2026, after a short and courageous battle with leukemia.

Jason leaves behind his loving wife, Shannon; his son, Max; his stepchildren, Alex, Brad, and Cali; his grandson, Grayson; and his granddaughter, Rakaylynn, along with two older brothers and many extended family members and friends who will deeply miss him.

Jason worked for Asplundh and was a man who enjoyed life with a little bit of speed and a whole lot of fun. If it had a motor, chances were Jason loved it. He had a passion for cars, enjoyed participating in demolition derbies, and was always drawn to anything that went fast.
When he wasn't around cars or motors, Jason could often be found fishing, playing video games with Max, or enjoying a good game of poker. Some of the simplest moments—especially the time spent with his son—were among the ones that meant the most.

Jason also had a special gift with babies and was affectionately known as the “baby whisperer.” There was just something about him that could settle and comfort a little one, a gift his family will always remember with a smile.

Above all, Jason loved his family. His life may have ended far sooner than anyone was prepared for, but the memories he created, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave will continue to live on in those who knew and loved him.

The family would also like to give a special acknowledgement to Kayla, Max’s mother, for her love, support, and the important part she has played in Jason and Max’s lives, especially during this difficult time.

Jason was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin Henry and Sheila Speir.
Those who loved Jason will remember his adventurous spirit, his love of going fast, his way with babies, and the countless memories that made him uniquely Jason.

Rest easy, Jason. Your race here is finished, but your memory will ride with us always.

Cremation has taken place and there will be a memorial service Thursday, October 15 at 11am with Pastor Dar Blanshan officiating at Victory Church in Mt. Pleasant. There will be visitation from 10am until time of service.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Berry Funeral Home of Shepherd.

10/05/2026

James A Courter, age 63, passed away Sunday, October 4, 2026, at MyMichigan Medical Center in Alma, surrounded by his family. He was born May 4, 1963, the son of Arthur and Kathryn (Feltman) Courter.

Jim was a hard worker through and through. He was always willing to put in the extra hours and was known for taking advantage of just about every overtime opportunity that came his way. Working hard was simply part of who Jim was.

When he wasn’t working, Jim loved sports and was a dedicated fan. He cheered for the Detroit Lions, Detroit Red Wings, University of Michigan athletics, and NASCAR, and was a big fan of Rusty Wallace. He also enjoyed music, with the Righteous Brothers and Alabama among his favorites.

Jim loved being around kids, especially his grandchildren and the many others he came to consider “adopted” grandchildren. He also treasured time spent with his grandnieces and grandnephews. Family was important to Jim, and from the time he was young, he was proudly a mama’s boy. Those who knew him well also knew him by his nickname, “Snidely Whitelash.”

Jim is survived by his children, Tyler (Vanessa Davis) Courter, Haley King, and Blake Courter; seven grandchildren, Jayden, Thomas, Landon, Emma, Vincent, Charlee, and Tessa; siblings, Elaine (Dan Fleming), Juanita Edwards, Kathy (Kyle Wilhelm), and Laura (Stephanie) Courter; sister-in-law, Janice Courter; his best friend, Barb Jason; and several nieces and nephews.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Kathryn Courter; his wife, Christine Courter; siblings, Butch Courter, Karen (Bill) Mills, Tom Courter, and Jean Davenport; brother-in-law, Cam Edwards; infant siblings, Anne and Mary; and nephew, Todd Mills.

Funeral services for Jim will be held Friday, October 9, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Berry Funeral Home in Shepherd, with Reverend Bill Chu officiating. Visitation will be held Thursday, October 8, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home. In honor of Jim’s love of sports, family and friends are encouraged to wear fan gear of their choice to the service—as long as it’s not Ohio State.
And now, in true Jim fashion, “he’s taken his ball and he’s gone home.”

10/04/2026

Henry Bruce Balfanz, second child of George Balfanz and Fredericka (Rowekamp) Balfanz, was born 7/6/1954 in Bloomington, IL because, according to Henry, his parents wanted him to be as close to Normal (IL) as possible. Henry developed a love of the limelight, acting and singing in productions from his teens to his 50's. He worked as a disc jockey and in 1976 graduated from Southern Illinois University (Go Salukis!)

Henry started his career in advertising at WEEK TV in Peoria, climbing the ladder of success, from sales to managing radio stations and newspapers throughout the Midwest.
Henry met his wife, Pam (Yentis) Balfanz, and they had two boys, Nicholas and Nathan Balfanz. Henry was a dutiful father; coaching, chauffeuring, and feeding his kids too many sweets.

Henry divorced midlife and reveled decorating his house with posters from Marathons he ran, Cubs memorabilia, books, records, and enough portraits of Abraham Lincoln to make museum curators jealous. Henry also loved clocks, which spoke to his steadfast, dependable nature.

Henry would say, “On time is 10 minutes late". Fate then laughed and introduced him to his second wife, Laurie (Blanchard) Balfanz, who was rarely on time. They met in October 2016 as the Cubs were competing in the World Series ... he decided she was good luck and they were wed.

Henry’s second act began with him as a business professor; teaching at Bradley University, Northern Michigan University, and retiring from Alma College. He was even named Outstanding Teacher of the Year at Alma College in 2018.

Late in life he fell in love with traveling, visiting China, Australia, and teaching in Prague. Henry was diagnosed with Parkinson’s and with wheelchair in tow, he and Laurie traveled to NYC, Chicago, D.C., New Orleans, London, Paris, Rome, and Dublin. Henry developed Parkinson's related Dementia and spent his final days watching the Cubs, snacking on popcorn, and cuddling his dogs (Lincoln, Luke, and Pugsley) and cats (Oreo, Ike, and Sophie).
He will be missed by his children Nate (MaryAnne) Balfanz and Nick Balfanz, as well as his stepchildren - Hadrian, William, Emma, and Riley Wiltse. Instead of burial, Henry has chosen to have his ashes scattered in the places he loved most.

Cremation has taken place and there will be a memorial service Monday, October 12 at Berry Funeral Home of Shepherd, Michigan at 2 pm with visitation from 1 pm until time of service.
In memory of Henry please consider mentoring a child, telling a dad joke, or enjoying some chocolate.

10/04/2026

Mark Lynn Fairchild, age 66, of Oil City, passed away Friday, October 2, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family.

Mark was born February 10, 1960, the son of Gerald and Harriett (Bunce) Fairchild. On June 21, 1986, he married Bridget Ann Kenyon, and together they built a life centered around family, hard work, and the people they loved.

Mark was a worker to his core. He was the kind of man who always enjoyed having something to do and especially loved fixing things and working with his hands. For nearly 20 years, Mark worked at Eugene Welding in Elsie before joining the family business. He went on to spend nearly 30 years helping operate and eventually running Fairchild Family Sawmill.
When he wasn’t working, Mark enjoyed trail riding, camping, and hunting. More than anything, however, he loved his family. His grandchildren held a particularly special place in his heart, and being “Papa” was one of the greatest joys of his life.

Mark is survived by his wife of 40 years, Bridget Fairchild; his five children, Mark Fairchild Jr., David Fairchild, Charles Fairchild, Amy (Darrell) Wonsey, and Eric (Kelynn) Fairchild; eight grandchildren, Cooper, Cole, Caleb, Carter, Kaitlynn, Xander, Kashton, and Crew; his parents, Gerald and Harriett Fairchild; siblings, Karmen (Gerald) Wood and Daniel Fairchild; and several nieces and nephews.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Mark’s Life will be held Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at 5560 Short Road, Shepherd, Michigan 48883.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mark’s honor to the American Cancer Society.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Berry Funeral Home of Shepherd.

10/01/2026

Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Ella Mae (Peak) Kenny, 91, of Shepherd, Michigan, passed away peacefully in her home with family on the Feast of the Archangels, September 29, 2026.

One of Ella’s favorite songs was “The Old Rugged Cross.” In a sense, her entire life was framed by the Cross: she was born on Good Friday, April 19, 1935, in Shepherd, Michigan. She clung to Christ, who helped her carry her own cross, throughout her life. We pray she has now exchanged that cross for the crown of victory.

Faith was the cornerstone around which Ella’s life was built, and what carried her through each day. From a young age, Ella used her gifts for others. Whether it was through her artistic talents, beautiful landscaping, fully-stocked pantry, or care for her family and home, Ella poured herself out for as long as she was able. As a student, she was known for her sharp mind, going on to graduate early and helping teach her classmates. She would spend the day baking donuts and other goodies before taking them to visit those in need. Hosting her large family was a labor of love, and when the home no longer held everyone, she moved gatherings to the township hall. None of her family will probably ever taste a pie as good as hers again, or baked with as much care.

On November 15, 1952, at seventeen and a half years old, Ella married Robert Duane Kenny in Augusta, Georgia. They returned to their hometown, where they built their home and family near those they loved. Duane survives her, mourning the loss of his wife of seventy-three years and describing her as “the best.”

Ella is also survived by their nine children: Susan (Dennis) McQueen, Theresa (Robert) Dell, Rita (Randy) Mitchell, Robert Kenny, Roberta (Kelvin) Sunday, Ron Kenny, Diane (Thomas) Quinlan, Della (Jon) Seeley, and John (Martha) Kenny; twenty-six grandchildren; fifty-three great-grandchildren; and ten great-great-grandchildren. Family gatherings won’t be the same without her at the euchre table. Ella loved unconditionally with a humility and strength that left a lasting mark on those around her; her presence will be deeply missed.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Ivan and Clara (Phelps) Peak; all ten of her siblings; three grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Ella carried her love for them always, whether through her prayers, care for their graves, or cherished memories.

Visitation

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 4, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Berry Funeral Home, 106 W. Wright Avenue, Shepherd, Michigan. A vigil prayer service will be held at 7:00 PM, followed by the rosary.

Funeral

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, October 5, at 11:00 AM at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 7631 W. North County Line Road, Elwell, Michigan, with Rev. Fr. Thomas Held officiating. Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at the church from 10:00 AM until Mass begins. Burial will follow at the adjoining St. Patrick Catholic Cemetery.

In Lieu of Flowers

In lieu of flowers, Ella requested prayers for the repose of her soul. Donations toward having Masses offered in her memory may be made through the funeral home, or you may contact any Catholic church directly to have a Mass offered in her name.

09/29/2026

Jamie Sue Pratt, age 52, of Wheeler, Michigan, passed away September 27, 2026, at McLaren Central Michigan Hospital.

Jamie was born January 14, 1974, the daughter of John and Barbara (Preston) Pratt.
Jamie had a lifelong love for horses and always enjoyed having them as part of her life. She started with Belgians and would later own and enjoy other horses over the years. She loved being around them and the time she was able to spend caring for them.
Jamie was also very involved with the Midland Antique Engine Association (MAEA), where she served as president. Above all, Jamie loved spending time with her children and treasured the time she shared with her family.

Jamie is survived by her children, John Hartner, Alyssa (Shane Chapin) Pratt, Kacie Cartwright, and Kolby Cartwright; her parents, John and Barbara Pratt; her siblings, Wanda Whittington, Cindy (Darrick) Sonley, Robyn (Shawn) Pratt-Barr, and Randy (Linda Tester); along with many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and extended family.

Jamie was preceded in death by her brother, Kevin Tester; her niece, Madalyn Barr; her nephew, Joshua Schick; and her grandparents, Elmer and Florence Preston and Aldis and Laura Pratt.

Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of Jamie’s life will be held at a later date.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Berry Funeral Home of Shepherd.

09/27/2026

John P. Florian

John P. Florian was born on September 30, 1945, to William and Bernice (Quinlan) Florian. In 1972, he married Linda Hall, with whom he shared many years of marriage, family, friendship, and treasured memories.

John passed away on September 23, 2026, at MidMichigan Hospital in Midland, Michigan, with his loving family by his side.

John was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend whose life was made richer by the people he loved and the memories they created together.

John served in the United States Army and was deployed to Vietnam during the Vietnam War. He was especially proud of his military service and of having served his country in Vietnam.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda Florian; his son, Chad (Ashley) Florian; and his daughter, Trinia (Todd) Florian.

John is also survived by his four siblings: his twin brother, Mike (Judy) Florian, Rosie Florian, Katie Florian, and Celine Austin; his sister-in-law, Elma Florian; along with numerous nieces and nephews and Linda’s loving siblings and family, who were an important part of John’s life.

John was preceded in death by his brothers, William (Sally) Florian, Robert Florian, and James Florian; and his brothers-in-law, Michael Austin and James Hall.

John retired from General Motors in 1992. Retirement did not slow him down. He went on to drive truck for local farmers, including Fisher Farms, Murphy Farms, and McDonald Farms. John enjoyed staying busy and lending a hand to those in his community.

John enjoyed going to the casinos, riding his motorcycle, golfing, having coffee with the boys, and visiting friends and family. He especially loved spending time in Dade City, Florida, with Linda and the very best of friends they made along the way. Those friendships, good times, and treasured memories held a special place in his heart.

Above all, John cherished his family. His presence, love, sense of friendship, and the many memories made with him will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, John’s family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to VFW Post 8215 in Shepherd, Michigan, in his memory.

Funeral services for John will be held at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Shepherd, Michigan, on Saturday, October 3, 2026. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the Funeral Mass at 12:00 noon.

Following Mass, John will be laid to rest with military honors at St. Vincent de Paul Cemetery, honoring his proud service to his country.

09/25/2026

Nelson George Bazzett Jr.

Nelson George Bazzett Jr., age 71, of Harrison, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Nelson was born February 22, 1955, the son of Nelson and Mary (Groenke) Bazzett Sr. He married Denise Lynn Matthews in 1990.

Nelson enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, especially fishing, watching movies, and spending time with his family. He also loved visiting Mackinac Island, a place that held a special spot in his heart.

Nelson is survived by his wife, Denise; his four children, Michael, John, Michelle, and Jennifer; his stepdaughter, Melissa Matthews; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; his stepfather, Howard Wolf; his four siblings, Les (Kathy) Bazzett, Dale Bazzett, Brian Bazzett, and Randy Bazzett; and several nieces and nephews.

Nelson was preceded in death by his parents; his grandson, Jeremiah; and his brothers, Ronnie and Kenny Bazzett.

Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of Nelson’s life will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Berry Funeral Home of Shepherd.

09/24/2026

Richard Henry Kaufman “Dick”

Richard Henry Kaufman “Dick,” also lovingly known as Papa Dickie, Grrrouch, Grandpa, and Dad, passed away on September 21, 2026, at the Michigan Masonic Home in Alma, Michigan, at the age of 90.
Dick was born in Alma, Michigan on December 2, 1935, to Burdell Davis Kaufman and Russell Newman Kaufman. He was a lifelong resident of Alma. He graduated from Alma High School in 1954 and received a Certificate in Body and Fender Repair and Spray Painting from Ferris State University in 1957. He served in the United States Army from 1961 to 1964.

Dick married his beloved wife, Rosemary, on April 15, 1961. They celebrated 65 years of marriage this year. Dick was faithfully devoted to his wife, maintaining daily visits with her the past 7 years, since her move into nursing care. She surely misses the daily chocolates and diet cokes that he provided.

Dick and Rosemary had two children, five grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter. They were all his pride and joy. He would always do anything for any of them and was sure to never miss any of their events, driving many miles to do so. He loved to talk and would brag endlessly to anyone who would listen to him about his beloved family.

Dick always had a strong work ethic. He was only 14, raking leaves outside, when he was offered his first job as a dishwasher at the Michigan Masonic Home. He went on to hold many jobs, including delivering papers, Lobdells, Fisher Body, managing Gratiot Farmers’ gas station, and Armco Steel. He also owned and operated the Main Cafe in Alma for more than 20 years. In his later years, he said that he used to know everyone in Alma, but that he didn’t anymore.
When he could get away, Dick loved to go fishing and hunting. He was a frequent visitor to his property in Grayling, and loved to get up to Como Lake Resort in Chapleau, Ontario. He hunted annually at Camp Digger with his lifelong friend Don, and assorted others. We all think that his very favorite thing to do was to mow his lawn, and he took great pride in a well-manicured yard.

Dick will be remembered for his devotion and love for his family, his humor, and the countless ways he cared for those around him. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Burdell Kaufman, and his brothers, Ralph, Alton, and William (Bill) Kaufman. He is survived by his wife, Rosemary; sister, Ruth Ann Wolven; children Kathleen Kaufman (Rich Jaskowski), and Kenneth Kaufman (Cindy, Shane Welch); grandchildren Hilare Kaufman (Sara Bur, Grace and Liam Spence), Nathan (Meredith, Lainy) Jones, Dylan Jaskowski (Makayla Lopez), Clay, Drew, and Ella Jaskowski; great-granddaughter Cecilia Jaskowski; and countless nieces, nephews, and greats.

Family and friends will gather on Sunday, September 27, 2026, for visitation at 1:00, and funeral service starting at 1:30 at Doig Memorial Chapel at the Michigan Masonic Home, Alma, Michigan. A meal will be served immediately after downstairs from the Chapel. Memorial contributions can be made on behalf of Dick to Gahagan Nature Preserve in Roscommon, MI. Arrangements have been entrusted to Berry Funeral Home of Shepherd.

09/24/2026

Jill Anne Lyon (Stevens), 66, of Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, passed away on September 17, 2026, in the community where she was born, raised, and made her home.

Jill was born February 19, 1960, in Mt. Pleasant to Frank and Shirley Stevens. She was a mother to three children, Elizabeth, Katherine and Nathan, and a grandmother to Aubrey, Dominic, Noah, and Henry. Jill made life precious in the countless little ways she made the people and places around her feel cared for.

Jill had a gift for making a house feel like a home. Wherever she lived, she had a way of making her surroundings beautiful, cozy, and welcoming. She loved gardening, being outdoors, and taking her daily walks.

Jill found joy in the everyday moments and took great pride in sharing what she knew with her children. She was organized, talented, and always beautifully put together. The lessons she passed along, both big and small, became part of the lives her children built for themselves.

Above all, Jill loved her children and grandchildren, and she was deeply loved by them in return. One of her greatest gifts was life itself, not only the lives of her three children, but the family that grew from them and will continue long after her. She leaves behind Elizabeth (Ryan) Koenig, Katherine Lyon and Nathan Lyon, and her four grandchildren, Aubrey, Dominic, Noah, and Henry.

Jill fought long and hard for her health, and her life was cut far too short, leaving her family wishing for so many more years with her. She will be remembered in the homes she made warm, the traditions she created, the love she gave so freely, and in those everyday moments when her family finds themselves doing something simply because it’s the way Mom always did it — proper.

Family and friends are invited to gather in honor of Jill’s life on Friday, October 2, 2026, at Berry Funeral Home in Shepherd, Michigan. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a service honoring Jill’s life at 11:00 a.m.

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