HONORING CLARENCE ALCE JR.

Clarence Theodore Alce Jr., affectionately known as "Dreambo," was born on September 1, 1941, in Key West, FL. He passed away peacefully on May 21, 2025, in Orlando, FL, at the age of 83. Clarence was a man whose laughter and charm filled every room he entered.

Clarence graduated from Frederick Douglass High School in 1960, where he excelled on the basketball court, showcasing his talent and teamwork. His dedication to his country was evident through his service in the Army, where he served for two years as a Cannon Crewmember. Following his military service, Clarence committed himself to a career as an Auto Mechanic in civil service, where he worked diligently for over 30 years.

His interests and hobbies painted the picture of a man who found joy in life's simple pleasures. Dreambo was an avid fan of sports, always ready to watch a game of football, basketball, or baseball. He loved cooking and was also not a stranger to visiting casinos. His Jove for the casino was well-known among his friends and family. Those who knew him will remember Clarence as a funny, interesting, and incredibly handy individual who could always be counted on to fix anything that needed repair.

Dreambo's life was rich with the Love of his family. He leaves behind his beloved part­ner, Elvira Sawyer. Other family members who will deeply miss his presence include his children, Michael Ferguson (Benita), Cynthia Wright, Pamela Ginger (Donovan), and Corneil Alce (Danielle), they will carry forward his legacy of kindness and humor.

Dreambo was a cherished PaPa to Elvira's two children and six grandchildren, as well as his own 12 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, all of whom adored him.

He is survived by his siblings, Oreatha Thompson and Alvin Alce (Dehavelyn), who will fondly remember their brother's infectious laughter and unwavering support. Clarence also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and a brother-in-Jaw, all of whom he loved dearly.                                 

Dreambo was preceded in death by his parents, Lucille Fisher Alce and Clarence Alce Sr., as well as his siblings Adell Alce Carey, Clarice Alce Chapple, Clayton Alce, and Audrey Alce Allen.

Clarence Theodore Alce Jr. lived a life full of !aughter, love, and service. His memory will be treasured and kept alive through the stories shared by those who loved him. As we say goodbye to Dreambo, we celebrate a life well-lived and a man well-loved. His spirit will continue to inspire and guide us, just as the memories of his warmth and wit will comfort us in the days to come.

HONORING THEODORIS NAVARRO

Theodoris 'Mommie' Frances Navarro was the second child born to Annie Lou and Theodore Navarro. She blessed the world on a beautiful Monday morning on October 8, 1951, in Key West, Florida.

Theodoris was educated in the Monroe County Public School System. Realizing her innate gift to nurture people of all walks of life, she became a certified nursing assistant.

In 1968, upon giving birth to her only child, Trenton 'Poppy' Richardson, seeking to conquer the challenges of single motherhood, Theodoris was compelled to explore greater career opportunities. She entered the world of banking and worked for First Federal Savings & Loan and Barnett Bank for many years.

Continuing to work her way up the ladder of success, she obtained a position with Chicago Title, where she also exhibited longevity. In 2010 due to the deepwater horizon oil spill, her position with Chicago Title was eliminated.

Theodoris possessed a strong work ethic. In 2011, she embarked on yet another career path. She entered public service when she accepted a position with the Monroe County Clerk of Court Felony Department, where she served as a court clerk until her retirement in November of 2022.

Throughout Theodoris' life she was blessed to travel by land, air and sea. She enjoyed meeting people and enhancing her life's experiences. She was altruistic and gave of herself without hesitation.

One of Theodoris' greatest gifts was her ability to cook. She showed her love by feeding others. Whether she was mixing up a batch of her famous conch fritters, making meals using her mother's South Carolina recipes, or creating her own version of foods from her favorite cooking shows, Theodoris' food was loved by family and friends alike and she proved to be one of Key West's finest culinary artists.

Theodoris leaves behind a loving legacy, cherished by her beloved son, Trenton Richardson, Sr.; two grandchildren, Trenton (Youman) Richardson, Jr. and Kavean (Olivia) Richardson; and four great-grandchildren, Tristan, Tamari, Kavean, Jr., and Elizabeth. She is also survived by two dear siblings, Raymond (Joan) Navarro and Elizabeth Carr; Devoted nieces and a nephew, Connie (Shawn) Navarro-Allen, Carla Navarro, Danielle Navarro, Raymond (Angela) Navarro, Jr., Deanna Navarro, Barbara Jones, Peggy Allan, Lynn Givens, Linda Williams, Joni Brand, Robert James, Norice James, and Gregory James. As well as a host of great nieces, great nephews, cousins and friends. Theodoris was a loving godmother to Cherie Small and Taurean Roberts, and held close the friendships of Althea, Carolyn, Cetha, Lavonne, Portia, and Zelda.

HONORING BRETT ANGUS

Brett was the kind of man the world needs more of kind, generous, loyal, and quietly heroic. The kind that could crack you up when you least expected it.

He was also a passionate chef, always creating something new in the kitchen. Food was his love language. He cooked from the heart and shared it freely.

And of course, he loved his Star Trek reruns and frozen pizza nights, proving that even great chefs have their comfort classics. If you ever heard his big sigh, you knew he was about to help someone, even if he pretended to grumble about it first.

A loyal friend, a loving father and grandfather. His dream was to live a quiet chef's life in Key West surrounded by his tribe. He loved deeply, laughed loudly, and left everyone a little warmer, a little fuller, and a lot more loved

HONORING FRANK R. LEGGETT SR.

Frank, affectionately known as Rudy or Big Rudy, the fourth of eight children, was born October 12,

1936, to the late Samuel Donzel Leggett and Alice Grace Edden Leggett, in Key West, Florida.

Rudy graduated from Douglas High School, where he was a member of the choir and played

football for the "Fighting ngers.- During his sophomore year, he began courting Joan Yvonne

Allen, whom he married on July 28, 1956.This union was blessed with four children, Frank Jr.,

Adriene Lynne, Judy and Donzel.

Our daddy had a long and dedicated career working for Southern Bell (which later became Bell

South), where he retired after 42 years of service. During his career, he was a "fearless Lineman"

who worked on telephone poles throughout the Florida Keys. Following his retirement, he spent his

time relaxing on his porch and enjoying the sunshine in Key West.

Rudy was Poppy to ten grandchildren: Frank Leggett III, Nikia Leggett Croslin, Emanuel Leggett

Clark, Joanna Nichols, Daniel Leggett Clark, Donzel Leggett II, Sierra Leggett, Joanell Leggett and

Gianna Leggett. In addition he was also Poppy to ten great grandchildren.

Rudy was predeceased by his parents, Samuel Donzel Leggett and Alice Grace Edden Leggett,

and seven siblings, S. Donzel Leggett, Gilbert Leggett, Olga Leggett Thompson, William R.

Leggett, Lemuel Leggett, Leonard R. Leggett and Alvin Oliver Leggett.

“Just whisper my name in your heart and I will be there”

HONORING DEANGELO "BOOGIE" RIVAS


Deangelo Enrique (Woogie) Rivas, beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend, went to be with the Lord on May. 14, 2025, at the age of 25. Deangelo brought laughter, joy and happiness to everyone around him. He had a smile that radiated his infectious joy and the biggest, most tender heart.  His laugh will forever echo in the minds of those blessed to know him. He will be remembered for his deep devoted loyalty & youthful soul.

Deangelo was born July 5, 1999 in Key West, Florida. He grew up in a community he loved where he enjoyed time with family and friends, but more than anything, playing sports. He spent so much time on the football field playing running back. He developed a deep passion for the sport and played through high school. He made so many life-long friendships on the field that remained throughout his life. He was someone everyone gravitated towards.

Preceded in death by Mother Anitra Brown ; Grandmother Oreathea Rivas Brown ; Grandfather Ervin Higgs ; Great grandfather Leroy Rivas ; Great grandmother Elizabeth Rivas ; Great Uncle Irving “Sonny” Rivas

He is survived by his Bonus Parents Steve and Mindy Vinson ; his siblings Jakay Mack, Demetri Rivas, Lindsey (Charles) Vazquez, Erik Vinson, Logan (Jeremy) Johnigean, Spenser Vinson ; Grandparents Wayne and Wallis Holmes, Sandra Higgs ; Uncles Averie Rivas, Alvin (Candice) Brown, Enrique Brown, Doug (Leslie) Holmes ; Aunt Lakeisha McCoy; Great Aunts Veronica(Charles) Rivas-Butler, Aloma Rivas-McCoy, Paulette Rivas ; Cousins  Shanita (Keith) Rivas-Hodges, Averie (Jodi) Rivas Jr, Antonio Rivas, Alvin Brown Jr, Alyssa Brown, Orville Garvey Jr., Cruz Holmes ; Nieces and Nephews Noel Vazquez, Chase Vazquez, Cousin & Godmother Destiny Rivas

He spent his days working at The Key West Airport as a Ramp Agent for Silver Airways. Pilots and frequent passengers would light up when they saw him working their flight. While that was his job, his true passion was cooking. He made the most delicious meals for family & friends. He was the most selfless man who would give the shirt off his back for anyone. He was everyone’s go-to person. Though his time on this Earth was short, the relationships, friendships and bonds he made will live on forever. He touched countless lives and left a lasting impact on the hearts of so many.

HONORING MARIE LOU YARBROUGH

Marie Lou (Zarate) Yarbrough, 76, of Key West, Florida, passed away on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. Marie was born on April 7, 1949, in Manhattan, New York. She moved to Key West, Florida, at a young age and graduated from Key West High School in the Class of 1968. She met her husband, Thomas (Tommy) Yarbrough, Class of 1964, shortly after graduating, and they married soon after. Thomas joined the military, and after his service, they returned to Key West, where they raised their two sons, Jason and Joshua.

Marie embarked on a long and fulfilling career with Porter Allen Insurance Company, where she served as an insurance professional admired for her 37 years of dedication and warm rapport with clients and colleagues, many of whom became like family.

A devoted matriarch, Marie’s greatest joy was spending time with her family—especially doting on her grandchildren, Jazlyn and Jason, know to them as Mimi. She was an avid seamstress whose colorful quilts and crafts reflected both her creativity and generosity. Marie sewed on Thursday mornings with the sewing ladies group at the 5th Street Baptist Church. She also looked forward to Tuesday night bingo with Pat Castro and friends and never missed her weekly sorority gatherings or girls' luncheons, where her laughter and camaraderie were cherished by all. She was a member of Presceptor Gamma and served as treasurer. Additionally, Marie was an avid yard sale enthusiast.

Marie was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, tia, mother-in-law, sister-in-law and friend. She is survived by her husband, Thomas Yarbrough; son, Jason (Donnie) Yarbrough; grandchildren, Jazlyn and Jason Yarbrough; sister, Sara Acevedo; and nephew, Joseph Henriquez. She is also survived by her brothers-in-law, Billy Yarbrough, Johnny (Sharon) Yarbrough, and Timmy (Dottie) Yarbrough, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, family, and friends who were like family.

Marie was predeceased by her son, Joshua Yarbrough; father, Joseph Zarate; mother, Tessie Arencibia; stepfather, Simon Arencibia; and niece, Talia Acevedo.


HONORING FLEASHER HALL

Fleasher Ann Hall was born on November 13, 1963, in Key West, Florida, to the late Mitchell C. Hall Sr. & Juanita J. Hall. She lived her entire life in Key West.

Fleasher was a kind and humble soul who knew the Lord and accepted him at an early age as her Lord and Savior. During her most difficult times, Fleasher always relied on her faith, strength, and protection from God She was a mighty woman of God Her strength, joy and encouragement were the highlight of those who knew her and those she met along the way.

Fleasher attended Frederick Douglas School and Key West High School, graduating with the class of 1981. Upon completion of high school, Fleasher obtained her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Development from Florida Keys Community College. As she entered the workforce, she worked as a manager at Winn Dixie, a Director at Wesley House Child Care Center, a Cafe manager at Poinciana Elementary School, and she ended her career at Key West High School as the Office Assistant.

Throughout her walk with Lord, Fleasher held many positions within her church community. She served on the Ushers Board, sang in the Choir, was a member of the Women's Prayer Group, and she was an Elder. She enjoyed making the Sunday announcements.

Fleasher was a woman of many talents. Her love for arts and crafts was shared among her family and friends and throughout the community. She always loved to have family gatherings in which she would cook and bake and just fellowship with her surroundings neighbors.

Fleasher answered the Masters call on October 20, 2025. She was preceded in death by her son, Marques Butler, and her father, Mitchell C. Hall Sr.


HONORING JOHN WELSH

      John Joseph Welsh, 77, of Key West passed away on July 10, 2025 surrounded by loved ones.  Born in Brooklawn, New Jersey, on February 19, 1948, John led a remarkable life defined by service, warmth, and joy.  He finished his race leaving behind 35 years of dedicated service that forever shaped our schools and community. 
      A proud Army veteran, John was awarded the Purple Heart for his service during the Vietnam War.  After returning home, he devoted his life to education.  He started his career at the Florida Marine Institute, an alternative school and joined the Monroe County School District in 1975 at Glynn Archer Junior High School.
     In 1993, he was invited to sere at Sugarloaf School.  After a brief hiatus, he returned in 1996 to Key West High School, where he served as assistant principal from 2002-2010.  He touched countless young lives, always keeping his door-and heart-open, encouraging students to believe in themselves.  His calm, patient nature and sense of humor made him a beloved friend and mentor.  Mr. Welsh led with humility and strength.  His personal mission was to make a difference in the lives of students every single day- Especially those who needed it most.  Thousands of young lives were impacted by his compassion, guidance, and dedication. 
     John's passions aside from shaping young lives included fishing, diving, and running marathons across the world, from Pikes Peak to The Great Wall of China.  He was a devoted member of The Rotary Club and cherished his time on the water.  Above all, he adored his family, remaining a playful grandfather and a loving father.
     John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Linda.  He is survived by his sons, John and Stephen Welsh, and four grandchildren.  John's memory will live forever in the hearts of his family, friends, students, and community. 


HONORING ARMANDO "BOOKIE" JOSEPH HENRIQUEZ

On February 14, our family lost our hero.  Armando Joseph Henriquez (Bookie) left this world peacefully after a long illness.  His presence was strongly felt by many and we are eternally grateful for his devotion to his family.  Without question, he offered his wisdom and unconditional support to all who asked.  Bookie was a visionary, and it was evident in his work as Superintendent and his planning for his family.  Bookie lived a life committed to his family, education, and community service.  His legacy will live on through the lives he influenced.

Bookie was born on June 19, 1934, to Rafael and Francis Henriquez in Key West, Florida.  He had a desire at a young age to attend college, so he began selling newspapers and doing odd jobs throughout his teenage years to make his dream come true.  After graduating from Key West High School in 1952, he went to Florida State University and then went on to earn a degree in Pre-Medicine from the prestigious Duke University. In 1963, he completed a Master of Arts in Education degree from Western Carolina University and in 1980, a Doctorate in Philosophy from the Union of Experimenting and Philosophies University. He also served his country in the Army and Army Reserve.

When he returned to Key West in 1958, he began an amazing 37-year career as an educational leader.  He was a teacher at heart and felt strongly about public education and the ability of one teacher to forever change a life.  His career started as a science teacher at his alma mater, and he quickly moved to become a guidance counselor due to his strength in building relationships.  Dr. Ruth Alice Campbell tapped him to be Assistant Superintendent and in 1968 he became Monroe County School District Superintendent of Schools, a position he held for 24 years.  As a passionate leader, he transformed the school district into a School-Based Management system with trust and confidence.   He firmly believed that effective principals and assistant principals were the key to great schools and he worked tirelessly to provide training and support.   As Superintendent, he made major impacts including setting a goal for computers for every student and creating the Superintendent’s Young Reader’s Award, one he proudly gave to the recipients himself.  Monroe County was the first district to desegregate all schools, which took team building and community relations which he excelled in.  Due to his close working relationship with the military, he was able to assist the district in obtaining the administrative property on Trumbo for $1 where a building bearing his name stands today.  Among his many educational recognitions, some of the most prestigious was being named Superintendent of the Year for the State of Florida and chosen by the Governor as a delegate to visit the educational system in Japan.  His passion for our community and his unwavering belief in public education enriched the school district in countless ways and left an indelible legacy.  

In 1958, Bookie married the love of his life, Judy Stone, and created an amazing family.  Their life was filled with family events, many friendship gatherings, community events and traveling the world.  Trusted friendships blossomed and they created countless memories that included their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and all their friends.  The Henriquez household was always a lively place with a welcoming open door.

In 1994, Bookie retired from the Monroe County School District and began his second career at Fringe Benefits Management Company.  In 2004, he retired and spent his time traveling, working on puzzles and watching sports with family.  He also made his life-long ambition of learning to play the piano a reality.  He credits his masterful teacher, Yehuda Guttman for this accomplishment.

Bookie was predeceased by his father, Rafael; mother, Francis; brothers Ralph (Moe) and Julio (Waffie); his brother-in-law Jose Pepe Rodriguez, his beloved niece, Isabel Rosado and his son-in-law, Thomas Butler.  He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Judy, his sister, Juanita Rodriguez, and sister-in-law Teresa Henriquez; his children Debbie (Thomas), Lori, Michael (Gaby), Frannie (Sam),  Stephan (Claudia), and Joseph (Ashley). Bookie and Judy were blessed with grandchildren,  Daniel Padron, Evan Tingley, Ryan Tingley, Michael Henriquez (Alexis), Amanda  Henriquez-Shultz (Henry), Anthony Henriquez, Kevin Florez, Nicholas Henriquez, Roman Faraldo, Payton Brees (Brecker), and  Mateo Ospina; great-grandchildren, Treydell, Tyrie, Zachary, Zamia, Jachai, Amairi, Kailani, Sarai, Shai , Roman, Josiah, Avianna, Ava, Grayson, Camryn Rae, Evan, Maxon, Phoenix, Ula.  Each has brought them such joy and kept them young.

HONORING VINA MAE SAUNDERS

Vina Mae Susan Saunders was born September 1, 1928, in Key West Florida to MerlinR. Curry, Sr. and Hazel Rivas Curry in Key West Florida. Mom passed away peacefully at home surrounded with her family on Good Friday, the same day that her mother passed away 37 years ago on a Good Friday.

She attended Frederick Douglass school and graduated in 1946 as valedictorian of her senior class. She left Key West to attend FAMC in 1946 and graduated in 1950 with a Bachelor's Degree in home economics, and a minor in Science. She was a member of Zeta Phi Beta sorority, serving as secretary for two years.

She returned to Key West and married the love of her life, Silas Saunders. From this Union, they were blessed with four children. Their union on Earth lasted for 65 years until Silas’s death. She returned to Key West where she started her first job with the City of Key West as an attendant for the children in the community park and influenced them greatly, many of them still reflect on her. Dr. Virginia Irving was one of those students who always spoke lovingly of her, teaching them skills, like making potholders and other crafts.

She returned to FAMC in 1960 now known as FAMU to receive her certificate of teaching in Elementary Education. She began her teaching career at Douglass School later on teaching at Truman Elementary and finishing her career at Memorial Elementary, which later became Glynn Archer. Her career of teaching spanned 30 years teaching many of the island’s children. She was the last of The Douglass School teachers.

She was a faithful member of Cornish Memorial AME Zion Church, being a faithful member from her childhood and until her passing. She served in many capacities.

She leaves to mourn her precious memory her children, Romaine Newton, Bruce Saunders, Detra Fisher and Silas Saunders Jr. Her memory will live in the hearts of her 10 grandchildren that she left behind and also her nine great grandchildren, her beloved nephews, nieces, cousins and her godson, Glenn Hayes, Sr.

She was predeceased by her father, Merlin Curry Sr. her mother, Hazel Curry and her siblings, Merlin Curry Jr. Victoria King and Florine Welch and her grandson, Christopher Newton.

Mom will be dearly remembered as stern, but loving and fair. She had high expectations of her children and every student that she taught. She was an excellent homemaker and loved to cook and bake. She was an excellent quilter making a quilt for each one of her children and some of her grandchildren all stitched by Hand.

HONORING BRUCE MITCHELL

Bruce grew up in a socially conscious family and was drawn to politics at an

early age. He was the editor of an underground newspaper at Upper Arlington

high school, outside of Columbus, Ohio. He attended Ohio University in Athens,

Ohio , from 1971 to 1975 and just barely earned a bachelor's degree in general

studies. While attending OU he was a campus activist and organizer protesting

the war in Vietnam, advocating for student rights, and founding the Student

Workers Union that tried to organize the university’s student employees. He was

elected president of the undergraduate student Governing board in 1974.

 

In 1977, Bruce founded the Athens “A” News (the “A” is for alternative) that over

time, evolved into The Athens News. He served as publisher for 38 years before

retiring and selling the newspaper in 2014. He was active in many community

events including the Athens Clean & Safe Halloween committee and helping

promote the Athens Brick Criterion as assistant race director for six years and

then race director for another six years.


Bruce and and his wife Susan moved to Bahama Village in Key West, Florida in 2013 where are they made

countless dear friends and joined the Key West Bike Club... If it's 8:01 AM we're

riding! In 2015, he organized community members to form the Key West Rip-off

rapid response team that fought a 5-year campaign against rip off cosmetic

shops on Duval St. Their sidewalk protest finally closed the last shop in the

spring of 2000.


Bruce was most proud of his wife Susan, their sons JB, Will and Orhan, the newspaper he founded and

attending all 30 Major League Baseball parks with his sons.

Bruce was blessed with an unusually large network of longtime friends who he

loved dearly and whom he was generous with.

In recent years he fancied himself a minor philanthropist and with Susan

delighted in giving significant funds to a wide range of charitable organizations.

He loved life experiences, traveling, adventure and visited more than 70

countries and continents.


HONORING LOIS CHMELAR

Lois Chmelar, age 89, our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend passed away peacefully at The Meadows of Owosso Assisted Living Home on January 4, 2025.

Lois was born in Swartz Creek, Michigan on July 11, 1935, to the late Paul and Lena (Bowles) Lare. Lois married her sweetheart and love of her life, Henry Chmelar, on November 5, 1955. They celebrated 69 years of marriage this past November. Their family grew with the addition of their three children - Nancy, Thomas and Barbara.

Lois was a hard worker, starting her career at the age of 16 at Confer’s Supermarket in New Lothrop while still in high school. Over the years, she worked as a stock person, cashier, and eventually worked her way up to the role of grocery department manager. Besides her full-time job, she was always helping Henry with farm work, outdoor home maintenance, indoor housework and most importantly, raising three children. Lois was an amazing woman and wonderful mother.

Lois was a friendly and familiar fixture within that store for 43 years, eventually retiring in 1994. After her retirement, Henry and Lois became snowbirds, wintering in Florida every year from October to April enjoying the warm weather and new friendships. Lois enjoyed traveling with Henry. Sometimes they would go on trips with groups of family and friends. They visited almost every state in the US, several foreign countries, and went on many cruises.

Lois was what you could call a “social butterfly.” As a lifelong resident of New Lothrop, she knew nearly everyone in town. She and Henry had a large group of family and friends with whom they loved spending time with and entertaining. Lois made new friends so easily and was always involved in various activities in Florida at the mobile home park club house. Lois was a great baker, loved playing bingo and bowling, and stole the spotlight when she and Henry would showcase their polka and square-dancing moves. She loved being outside, sunbathing to work on her tan, and you couldn’t drive down New Lothrop Road in the summer without seeing her waving from the front porch of the grey farmhouse on the hill. Lois loved and cherished her family very much. She is survived by her three children, daughter, Nancy (Earl) Dice, son; Thomas (Kelly) Chmelar; daughter, Barbara (David) Kral; grandchildren, Brett (Terri) Dice; Brandi (Kristi Ward) Dice; Chelsey (Kyle) Saari; Brooke (Michael) Taipale; Allison Chmelar; step-grandchildren, Nathan (Alexia) Ballantine; Rachel (Drew) Barker; great-grandchildren, Sierra and Aaron Dice, and Marek Saari; and step-great grandchildren, Milo and Maia Ballantine; and Lake, Forest, and Sky Barker. She is also survived by her older sister, Maxine Johnson and twin sister, Louise Bryant along with many loving nieces, nephews, and their families.

Lois was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Chmelar on December 21, 2024, her parents, sisters, Shirley Henry, Pauline Lanfear, Evelyn Moore, Carolyn Simison, and brothers Charles “Mike” Lare and Roland “Ike” Lare. Her family would like to thank The Meadows of Owosso Assisted Living Home for the wonderful and heartfelt care given to Lois during her residence with them. She truly felt the love expressed by everyone.


HONORING HENRY JOHN CHMELAR

Henry John Chmelar, age 90, devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully at The Meadows of Owosso Assisted Living Home on December 21, 2024.

Henry was born on the family farm in New Lothrop, MI on July 16, 1934, to the late Michael and Marie (Hajek) Chmelar who immigrated to the US from Czechoslovakia. Henry married his true love, Lois Lare, in New Lothrop on November 5, 1955; they celebrated 69 years of marriage just last month. Together, they raised three children – Nancy, Tom, and Barbara

Henry was employed by General Motors AC Spark Plug Division as a Journeyman Cutter Grinder for 42 years and maintained his 34-acre family farm for many years, growing wheat and soybeans even after he retired from GM in 1992. After his retirement, Henry and Lois spent many years as snowbirds, spending their winters in Florida enjoying the sun, time with friends, and time on the golf course.
Henry enjoyed life to the fullest and was involved in many activities throughout his life. He was a skilled athlete when it came to bowling and golf, accomplishing both a 300 game in bowling and a hole-in-one on the golf course. Henry loved dancing with Lois, and spent many hours polka and square dancing with her as the opportunities arose. They went on numerous trips and visited many places around the world with their children, family, and friends.

You would often find Henry in the center of a crowd, hosting and entertaining friends and family. He had the best and most contagious laugh, and loved to bring others joy, smiles, and laughter with the original games he would create for parties and holidays, hosting family gatherings, and having golf outings at the farm on his own personally maintained three-hole golf course.

Henry also had a passion for cars. His dream of owning a Cadillac finally became a reality in the early 1980’s. After that, he owned and drove several others in the years that followed. In more recent years, he was the proud owner of the brightest yellow Hummer H3, lovingly maintaining it and enjoying every moment behind its steering wheel. You couldn’t miss him driving around New Lothrop in it.



Henry loved and cherished his family very much. He is survived by his wife Lois, their three children - daughter, Nancy (Earl) Dice; son, Thomas (Kelly) Chmelar; and daughter, Barbara (David) Kral; grandchildren Brett (Terri) Dice and Brandi (Kristi Ward) Dice, Chelsey (Kyle) Saari, Brooke (Michael) Taipale, and Allison Chmelar; step-grandchildren Nathan (Alexia) Ballantine and Rachel (Drew) Barker; great-grandchildren Sierra and Aaron Dice, and Marek Saari; and step-great grandchildren Milo and Maia Ballantine and Lake, Forest, and Sky Barker. He is also survived by his older brother, Edward Chmelar and sister, Marion Krcmarik and many loving nieces, nephews and their families. Henry was preceded in death by his parents, sister Mildred Chmiko, sister-in-law Sharon Chmelar, brother-in-law August Krcmarik, and nephew Michael Krcmarik.


Henry’s family thanks The Meadows of Owosso staff for the wonderful care and

compassion they have provided for our father during his time as a resident and shown to all of us during this difficult time

HONORING PATRICIA “TRISH” GRILLS

Patricia “Tish” Grills : Tish was a beloved Nurse, traveler, beautiful Sister, Aunt and Friend. Her nursing career spanned over 4 decades and took her all over the globe to live in place such as Rhode Island, Michigan , Bermuda and her beloved Key West. Tish loved the beach and ocean and making Key West her home for the 14 plus years gave her such joy. Surrounded by friends she often participated in Fantasy Fest and other creative events and her flair for costuming and fashion made her a stand out in everything she did . She will be missed by her family and her Key West friends ♥️ She was a kind generous spirit whose caring capacity will not be forgotten


HONORING JOHN J. GROHOL III

John lived a very full life until his passing in 2021 after a later in life battle with leukemia. He adored his wife and two (adult) kids. John was a sports lover and traveled all over the country to participate in NFL and NCAA football. He enjoyed his many visits to Key West to visit his son and daughter in law (grand pups too!). A big loss to all that crossed his path as he was full of love and kindness.