Obits

Obituary: Thomas ‘Tommy’ Jefferson Ray, 60, of Custer

February 24, 2025

Thomas Jefferson Ray, known affectionately as Tommy, passed away on February 21, 2025, at the age of 60 in Grand Rapids. Born on November 23, 1964, in Lansing, Tommy was a lifelong resident of Michigan and proudly embraced his Native American heritage. Tommy enjoyed his time as a restaurant cook, having spent many years delighting patrons at Riley’s Rendezvous and…

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Obituary: Samantha “Sammi” Jo Bateson, 16, of Custer

February 23, 2025

Samantha “Sammi” Jo Bateson, 16, of Custer, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, in Custer. Born on September 15, 2008, in Ludington, she was a beloved daughter to Joshua Bateson and Anna (Miller) Bateson, and a cherished sister to Madison and Josilyn Bateson. Sammi was an active and engaged member of her community, known for her kindness and loyalty…

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Obituary: Karl William Schmiege, 79, of Ludington

February 21, 2025

Karl William Schmiege, 79, went to heaven on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. He was born July 8, 1945, in Saginaw, to Lorenz and Ruth (Waidelich) Schmiege. He attended St. Paul’s Lutheran School and graduated from Michigan Lutheran Seminary in 1963. He went to Delta College and RETS Electrical School. He went to work for Michigan Bell in Saginaw in 1973.…

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Obituary: George Allen Bray, 71, of Ludington

February 21, 2025

George Allen Bray, 71, of Ludington, passed away on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. Born on December 17, 1953, in Ludington, he was the son of the late Joseph and Vivian Bray. George was a lifelong resident of his birthplace, where he forged a life marked by hard work, family devotion, and an unwavering love for the great outdoors. After graduating…

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Obituary: Janis Arlene Compeau, 69, of Ludington

February 20, 2025

Janis Arlene Compeau of Ludington, passed away Sunday, February 16, 2025. A beloved grandmother “Ahma”, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, she will be greatly missed by all who were lucky enough to spend time in her presence. Janis graduated from Ludington High School in 1973 and went on to receive degrees in accounting and marketing/management. Often found on a warm sandy…

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