James L. Woodside, born October 10, 1942, in Ithaca, New York, quietly passed away on March 31, 2025, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, at the age of 82.
James grew up in Ithaca, New York. He began his college education at Cornell University, and left to join the Navy during the Vietnam War. He later graduated from Cornell University in 1973 with a B.S. degree. He worked for many years in the hospitality industry in various towns in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and lastly in Battle Creek and Kalamazoo, Michigan. He moved to Michigan in 1995 where he lived in Portage.

He is survived by his sons, James (Debra) Woodside and Colin (Kristin) Woodside, his granddaughter Samantha and his ex-wife Carol (Nick) Pratt. James was predeceased by his parents, Samuel and Margaret (Lonergan) Woodside.

James (Jim) was a great fan of Yankee baseball, sports and loved to read.

Shirley (Bunce) Rouse, 95, of Kalamazoo, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2025, at her home with her loving family at her bedside. Shirley was born on March 21, 1930, in Kalamazoo, the beloved daughter of Paul and Vivian (English) Haas. A woman of faith, she was a devoted member of St. Monica Catholic Church and actively participated in the church's women's club. She also dedicated countless hours volunteering with the Ministry of Community, serving meals to those in need alongside her cousin Joyce. As an alumna of St. Mary's College, Shirley valued education and dedicated herself to lifelong learning. This was evident in her willingness to adapt to new technologies, approaching each innovation with curiosity and determination. Later in life, Shirley enjoyed traveling and spending her winters in the warmth of Florida with Walt. Shirley treasured bringing her family together and hosting memorable gatherings. These adventures and family moments brought her immense joy throughout her life. She will be remembered for her warm spirit, generous heart, sharp wit that kept everyone laughing, and dedication to helping others. Her legacy of compassion, humor, and service will continue to inspire her family and loved ones for years to come.

Shirley is preceded in death by her husbands, Donald Spealman, Frank Rouse, and Walter Bunce; her son, Michael Rouse; her siblings, Phylis and Norman; her grandson, Ryland; and her dear friend- double cousin Joyce Beebe.

Shirley is survived by her two sons John Rouse and Andrew Rouse (Diana), daughter-in-law Anne Rouse, 14 grandchildren, and 14 great-grandchildren.

Services will be held at 11 AM Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at St. Monica Catholic Church, with a visitation at 10 am followed by mass at 11 am. Friends and relatives may gather following services at Huntington Run Clubhouse, 6255 Cranbrook Lane, Kalamazoo, MI 49009, until 4 pm. Interment will follow at Fort Custer National Cemetery privately at a future date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation at: https://give.themmrf.org/In-Memory-of-Shirley-Rouse
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Theresa Cecilia McMillan, 65, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, December 1, 2024. Born on September 26, 1959, in Detroit, MI, Theresa was the eldest of nine children to Edward and Marilyn McMillan. Her family later relocated to Coldwater, Michigan, where she graduated from high school in 1977. Theresa and her husband co-owned and operated Elenora's Bakery in Coldwater, MI for many years. After their marriage ended, Theresa moved to Otsego, MI, where she spent nearly a decade as a Bakery Manager or in Lead Cake Decorator roles for various Harding's locations. After leaving Otsego she spent time attending college in Chicago, IL before returning to Michigan and settling in Kalamazoo.

In Kalamazoo, she earned an Associate Degree in Graphic Design from KVCC and continued her career in various roles, often centered around cake decorating-a testament to her artistic talents. Theresa was a lifelong learner with a creative spirit, passionate about expanding her knowledge and expressing her artistry. She will be remembered as a gentle soul with a dry sense of humor and a deep love for her family. Those who knew her best will cherish her memory and the joy she brought into their lives.

Theresa is survived by her son, Aaron Kowalski; her mother, and seven siblings. She was predeceased by her father and her sister, Marie McMillan. 

Maxine Louise Ellis, 88, of Kalamazoo, passed away on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at Trinity Health Grand Rapids after a brief illness.

She was born April 1, 1937, in Muskegon, Michigan, the daughter of Howard Liddle and Magdalen (Josifek) Liddle.

She received her teaching degree at St. Mary's College, Cleveland, OH and taught elementary school at Muskegon Catholic Central. She married Gerald Lee Ellis on August 13, 1959, and moved to Kalamazoo, MI where she later earned a Masters in Elementary Education at Western Michigan University. She dedicated her life as a homemaker to her family.

Maxine enjoyed shopping and doing arts and crafts. She made countless photo albums throughout her life; she usually made them for special occasions. She cherished her family and loved spending holidays with them; she especially enjoyed the Christmas festivities. She loved her feline friends dearly and rescued several litters over the years. She loved camping with her family and has toured over half the states in her family's travel trailer.

She is survived by her three sons, Patrick (Francesca) Ellis, Gary Ellis, and Thomas Terry Ellis; three grandchildren, Susan (Matthew) Kemp, Kevin Ellis, and Kristen (Caleb) Kaylor-Knopf; three great-grandchildren, Abigail, Peter, and Brynleigh.

Maxine was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Donald Liddle, and grandson, Brian Ellis.

Family and friends are invited to a funeral mass at St. Monica Catholic Church on Saturday, April 12, 2025, beginning at 12:00 noon, with Fr. Russell Homic officiating. Visitation will take place prior to Mass beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the church. Maxine will be laid to rest immediately following at South Portage Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Kalamazoo Humane Society.

Esther P. Johnson, age 97 of Kalamazoo, died peacefully on March 24, 2025. She was born on July 28, 1927, to Ralph and Maria (Cuccari) Manganello. She grew up with her five siblings in Wyoming, Pennsylvania. Esther was a graduate of Wyoming High School, where she graduated top of her class. She received her nursing degree from Mercy College of Detroit. While working as a nurse at the Veteran’s Hospital in Wood, Wisconsin, she met US Navy Sailor Warren Johnson. She cared for him, and they fell in love. They were married on November 19th, 1949. The couple settled in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where Warren started the Colt Manufacturing Company with his brother, which was later purchased by Case Tractor. Their business brought the family to Portage, Michigan, where they settled and welcomed two sons, David (Dave) and Robert (Bob). When her two sons were grown, Esther returned to nursing and cared for residents at Tender Care Nursing Home from where she eventually retired.

She was a devout Catholic and active member of St. Catherine’s Catholic Parish. In retirement, Esther enjoyed traveling the world with her Portage Senior Center friends and caring for her grandchildren. She was a lifelong Michigan State University and Green Bay Packers fan. Above all, Esther was a devoted mother and grandmother and friend to many.

Her family includes her sons: Dave Johnson and Bob (Diane) Johnson; her grandchildren: Kelly Johnson, Courtney Johnson (Josh Batty), and Carlie Johnson; her great-grandson Dustin Batty and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her siblings: Carmen, Natalie, James, Patricia, and Sebastian; and her daughter-in-law Mary Johnson.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Esther may be made to the American Heart Association.

Please share memories of Esther with her family at www.langelands.com. 

Fischer, Catherine Ann age 57 of Kalamazoo

Passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her family on November 19, 2024 after a brief illness. Catherine was born on December 15, 1966 in Kalamazoo, MI the daughter of Earl and Patricia (Galloway) O’Neal. Catherine was a member of St. Monica Catholic church. She was a secretary for Purity Cylinder Gasses. She was an avid reader; loved shopping, traveling and baking. She enjoyed celebrating and decorating for the holidays. She loved animals, especially her dog, Koda and her cat, Bella. She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Patricia O’Neal, a sister, Lynda Rowley and her first husband, Richard Marquart. 

Catherine is survived by her husband, Randy Fischer, whom she married on January 21, 2021; a daughter, Kaity Marquart (Nolan) Ender; her granddaughter Brooklyn Ender; a brother, Robert (Karen Ann) Feder of Nampa, Idaho; three nephews: Kevin Rowley, Jon Rowley and Michael Feder; three nieces Becky Rowley, Keri Butler and Mandy Feder-Barbara and lifelong friends: Pricilla Noggle-Kalmer and her daughter, Elizabeth Noggle. According to her wishes, cremation has taken place. 

 Memorial contributions may be made to Centrica Care Navigators Hospice, The American Cancer Society or the Humane Society of Kalamazoo.

Charles "Bud" Donnelly, a beloved educator, mentor, and avid tennis enthusiast, passed away peacefully at home on November 7, 2024, surrounded by his loving wife and daughters. He was born on October 28, 1934, in Kalamazoo, MI.

Bud graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School in 1952, followed by earning his Bachelor of Arts degree from Western Michigan University in 1956. Bud married his best friend, Carol (Mackie), on August 8,1959 in Gladstone, MI, and they recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary. He furthered his education by obtaining a Master's degree in Counseling and Guidance in 1959. Bud also served his country as a 2nd Lt in the U.S. Army, where he completed active duty at Fort Bliss, TX, as a proud ROTC graduate. Bud returned home to become the Head Tennis Coach and Phys Ed instructor at Kalamazoo College.

Bud began his teaching career in 1958 at Mattawan High School and continued at Battle Creek Lakeview High School, and University High School in Kalamazoo. In 1963, he transitioned to WMU, where he would spend the next 35 years in the Student Services Division as Associate Dean of Students. He worked closely with students to handle disciplinary matters, develop Greek life, and to lead the Parents Association. His influence touched countless lives throughout his esteemed career. He was also a charter member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity at WMU.

Throughout his life, Bud maintained a love of tennis. After teaching himself to play the sport, he went on to play collegiate tennis at WMU in which he was a record holder in both singles and doubles. For many years, Bud competed in tournaments throughout the Midwest and was ranked # 1 in doubles with his partner, Jack Vredevelt. He shared with his family his passion for tennis and he took great pride in his daughters' tennis accomplishments. Bud was especially proud when the family was honored as the Midwest Tennis Family of the Year.

Upon retirement in 1997, Bud worked as a courier at Portage Commerce Bank for seven years. He served as president of the Portage Athletic Foundation from 1981-1985. Bud's contributions to the sports community were numerous and notable. He served on the WMU Athletic Board for many years and was president of the WMU "W Club" for over a decade. His dedication did not go unnoticed. Bud received numerous accolades, including a proclamation from the state of Michigan recognizing his longstanding commitment to WMU and being awarded Man of the Year for his distinguished service. His legacy in tennis was solidified with induction into the WMU Athletic Hall of Fame in 1995 and the Western Michigan Tennis Hall of Fame in 2020. His contributions as a volunteer, referee, and umpire for the USTA Boys' 16 and 18 National Tennis Championships in Kalamazoo earned him the prestigious Green Jacket award. .

He is survived by his wife Carol; daughters: Diane (Mike) Stone, Lisa (Rick) Denstorff, and Tracey (Jay) Maltby; grandchildren: Danielle Stone, Nicholas Stone, Clay Denstorff, Christopher Maltby, and Susanna Maltby; sister: Mary Jo Weller; brother: Russ French; brother-in-law: James (Chris) Mackie; nieces: Michelle Evans, Lisa Sue Mackie, and nephews: Jim Mackie, Mackenzie Mackie, and Nick Mackie; and cousin: Mike (Cindy) Belongie.

Bud was preceded in death by his parents: Virginia and Russell French, aunt: Barbara Massey, father-in-law: Harold Mackie, mother-in-law: Annabelle Mackie, and niece: Christie Mackie.

Bud's personality was one of a kind, characterized by his infectious smile and laughter that will forever be remembered. His steadfast support of WMU athletics exemplified his loyalty as a Bronco fan. His memory will live on in the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to share in his journey.

On February 11, 2025, the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, Alice Mary (Heath) Annis slipped away peacefully into Eternity while her beloved family kept vigil by her side. 

Alice Mary, born on April 2, 1929 to Cecil D and Exilda (Foisie) Heath, the oldest to round out a hardworking family. As a young girl, Alice Mary was fond of swimming and in a pool so often, she almost made the Olympic swim team. She carried this love for the water throughout her long life. 

After meeting her great love James Annis while in High School, she graduated prior to their wedding on August 21, 1948 just as she promised her parents. Alice Mary and Jim went on to have 5 children, she leading the charge at home, he working hard as a well-respected and sought after Snap-On salesman. Living for a time in the Upper Peninsula, with Jim traveling for work, Alice Mary indulged in her favored past-time: Bridge. She and her friends would often get so engrossed in games that one time they even missed a casting call to be extras in a movie in favor of cards. 

Once the kids were grown, Alice Mary kept herself busy caring for a new batch of youngsters and adults alike as lunch room manager at St. Monica’s school. With her fondness for cooking and sneakily nutritious recipes, she filled hungry bellies with delicious delights and hearts with joy and laughter. All the parent volunteers clamored to get on Alice Mary’s team. 

Following Jim’s retirement, the couple traveled around the country in their trailer, landing wherever he could find a good game of golf and she had a place to walk and people to play cards with. Never one to keep work at bay, she would volunteer to be a campground host and welcome all the new campers, answering all their questions and organizing events. 

In 2003, they oversaw the building of their retirement home in Stanwood, MI, where they lived out their final years as a married couple, actively involving themselves in their new community. In January 2015, Alice Mary became a widow with the loss of Jim, her children and friends to buoy her spirits. Later that year, the family took a memorable trip to Italy, the source of many tales and laughter, memorialized by prized photos above her mantle where she could revisit in memory during the quieter times. 

Anyone who went to visit Alice Mary could expect EWTN to be playing on the TV, especially during the rosary. Never was a trip taken in any vehicle with Alice Mary that did not begin with praying the beads. 

In 2019, after some wooing at the Senior Center, Alice Mary became a blushing bride again at 90 when she wed Louis Gula at St. Michael’s. Their antics as a couple kept both sets of kids on their toes while being the source of newlywed joy between the two of them, particularly as the world shut down around them. Their house was filled with light, laughter, and endless parlor games. 

Alice Mary once again became a widow in 2021 after Lou gave up his time on Earth. Ever faithful, she is the inspiration for a lifetime of adventure and many renewed devotions to the rosary and Our Lady. She will be deeply missed. 

Alice Mary was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, James Annis; her husband of 2 years, Louis Gula; her brothers Cecil L. and Douglas A Heath; Sister-in-law Barbara (Dugan) Heath.

Left to carry on her legacy are her children: Veronica (Bob) Costie, Christine “Deena” Anderson, James (Sue) Annis Jr., Douglas Annis, and Mary Annis; Bonus children, Kristina (Bob) Beers, John McKay, and Jim (Mary) McKay; 9 Grandchildren and 10 Great-Grandchildren; Multiple bonus Grands and Great-Grands; Sister-in-Law, Mary Ellen Heath, and several nieces and nephews. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Monica Catholic School, Kalamazoo or St. Michael the Archangel, Catholic School, Remus.