Obituaries

We now have over 7,000 obituaries collected about the interred here at Silverbrook Cemetery.

The obituaries are transcribed by the volunteers of the Friends of Silverbrook Cemetery from various sources.  If you see an opportunity for an addition or a correction, please email our obituary editor at obits@friendsofsilverbrook.org.

Anglin, Basil Lorenzo Jr. 1961-2023

Basil Anglin, Jr., of Cassopolis
Oct. 30, 1961-Aug. 24, 2023

Niles Daily Star, Published online 12:09 pm Sunday, August 27, 2023 

Basil Anglin, Jr., 61, of Cassopolis, passed away at Ascension Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo on Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023. Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services.

Published on website for Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services:

Basil Lorenza Anglin, Jr., a man who could build a house with one hand and make you laugh until your sides hurt with the other, passed away on August 24, 2023 at Ascension Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Born on October 30, 1961 in Holden, West Virginia, he left behind a world a little less funny, a lot less handy, but better for having had him in it.

Basil was the cherished son of the late Basil Anglin, Sr. and Martha Anglin. He was the beloved brother of Dreama (Robert) Schmidt, Bill (Jeanne) Anglin, Michael (Joyce) Anglin, Betty (Frank) Kelleher, Anna (Joe) Howard and Linda Brinkman who preceded him in passing. He is also survived by his children, Mark and Shelby.

A special thank you to friend, Mike Vite, for helping him for so many years. The family is grateful for all that you did for him.

Basil's work history was as diverse and interesting as the man himself. He proudly served in the United States Navy, a testament to his dedication to his country and his inherent sense of duty. After his military service, Basil put his hands to work, showcasing his talent in many different skilled trades. He was the quintessential handyman, able to build or fix anything. His talent was only surpassed by his willingness to use his skills to help others.

In accordance with Basil’s wishes, cremation has taken place and Basil’s family will lay him to rest with his parents at Silverbrook Cemetery.

Those wishing to make a memorial donation in honor of Basil may do so to a charity of one’s choice.

Condolences, memories, and photos can be left for Basil’s family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.

In remembrance of Basil, one can't help but recall his generous spirit, his unending humor, and his handy skills. He was a man who knew the value of a good laugh, the importance of kindness, and the satisfaction of a job well done. His memory will live on in the laughter he shared, the love he gave, and the lives he touched.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Niles.

 

 

 

Dwyer, Nancy Carol (Myers) 1937-2022

Nancy Carol Dwyer
September 7, 1937 -May 19, 2022

Published on webpage for Matthews-Bryson Funeral Home, Smyrna, Delaware:

Nancy Carol Dwyer

September 7, 1937 -May 19, 2022

Our beloved Nancy went home to be with the Lord on May 19, 2022. She lived 84 wonderful years; some in Nile, Michigan in her early, where she was born, and the rest in Delaware. She is preceded in death by her Father, Gale E. Myers and Mother, Norma E. Hartman, but is now rejoicing with them in heaven. She is survived by her three younger siblings, Judy Schultz (John), Jerry Myers, and Kathy Clough (Herman); as well as many nieces and nephews. Nancy recently received the title of great, great Aunt (affectionately referring to herself as “GG Aunt Nancy”) when her first great, great nephew was born.

Nancy is known for the way she loved the Lord, her amazing brownies, how selfless she was, being unintentionally funny, being so independent no matter the age, and of course to her family, a one-of-a-kind woman who would’ve done anything for her family. Nancy had a few nicknames such as, Aunt Nanny, Crazy Nanny (for her sense of humor), Nanny, and Nan. Her family has made many memories with her throughout her lifetime, as well as shared many laughs. Nancy’s family will continue to laugh about the memories made with her, until the end of time; and share stories about their “Aunt Nanny” or “Nanny” for generations to come. As she was a remarkable woman who left a mark on anyone that had the blessing to meet her.

If God sent angels to earth in human form, it is no doubt that Nancy was one of them. She would sacrifice anything of hers, to ensure that the ones she loved and cared for, were happy and safe. Nancy brought much joy, laughter, and happiness into the lives of the people that were blessed to know her. She radiated a type of spirit that can only be found in someone that is truly heaven-sent. Her family looked up to her and adored her for the love that she had for the Lord. Nancy honestly prayed her way through life; sometimes, she would just start talking to God like He was in the room. “God is so good to me, He really is” she would say it like she couldn’t believe that the most selfless, loving, God-fearing person didn’t deserve all the blessings. She deserved it all, and so much more! She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A visitation will be held from 11 AM – 1 PM Friday June 3 at Matthews-Bryson Funeral Home, 123 W. Commerce St., Smyrna. The family requests that masks be worn by all in attendance. 

Interment will be private.

To sign the online guestbook, please click the tab marked “Guestbook”. 

Arrangements are by Matthews-Bryson Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Smyrna.  

 

Joanis, Charles A. Jr. 1937-2008

Charles ‘Chuck’ Joanis / Jan. 4, 1937-Aug. 18, 2008

Niles Daily Star, Published 2:31 am Tuesday, August 19, 2008  

Charles "Chuck" Joanis, 71, of Mobile Boulevard, Niles, died at 2:20 a.m. Monday, Aug. 18, 2008, at Lakeland Community Hospital, Niles, following a brief illness.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 21, at Halbritter Funeral Home, Niles, with Scott Labbe, chaplain of Lakeland Hospice, officiating. Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 20, at the funeral home.

He was born on Jan. 4, 1937, in Bemidji, Minn. to Charles Arthur Joanis, Sr. and Eleanor Dorothy Mills.

He graduated from Dowagiac High School and moved to Niles in 1976.

He retired from Michiana Box &Crate in Niles after 50 years of service. Joanis was a member of the Army National Guard of Michigan-246 Armor of Dowagiac, Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge No. 978 in Niles and Faternal Order of the Eagles No. 2094 in Niles.

He enjoyed playing golf, playing mostly at Plym Park, bowling Sunday nights at Whites, darts, NASCAR, football, both college and professional and doing home repairs. He enjoyed spending time with family, including his grandchildren. He was a caregiver for his sister.

On May 20, 1979, in Niles, he married Shirley (Lane) Joanis, who survives. Additional surviving family include three sons, Jerry (Nikki) Joanis of Saint Joseph, Mike Colcord of Elkhart, Ind. and Timothy Colcord of Niles; two daughters, Pam (Chris) Thomas of Niles and Lorrie Colcord of Niles; Nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; a sister, Delia Shorts of Niles and two brothers, Ronald Joanis of Dowagiac and James Joanis of Edwardsburg. He was preceded death by a daughter, Kathy Kozlowski, who died Feb. 10, 2005; a granddaughter, Tiffany Colcord and grandson, Chase Kozlowski, who both died in infancy; two sisters, Jane Latimer and Yvonne Reist and a brother, Dwayne Joanis. Memorials may be made to the donor's choice. Arrangements were by Halbritter Funeral Home, Niles.

Read more at: https://www.leaderpub.com/2008/08/19/charles-chuck-joanis-19372008/

Joanis, Shirley (Lane) 1935-2023

Shirley Ann Joanis, of Niles
Nov. 29, 1935-Aug. 29, 2023

Niles Daily Star, Published 9:49 am Friday, September 1, 2023 

Shirley Joanis, 87, of Niles, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023. Arrangements are pending and have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, of Niles. www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com

Published on website of Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services:

Shirley Joanis Obituary

Shirley Ann Joanis, passed away peacefully in Niles, Michigan on August 29, 2023, at the age of 87. Born on November 29, 1935, in Mishawaka, Indiana, Shirley lived a life full of love and adventure.

Shirley devoted her life to her family and home, providing a warm and welcoming environment for all who entered. A loving mother, Shirley is survived by her children, Pamela (Chris) Thomas of Niles, Michael Colcord of Elkhart, and Lorrie (Jeffrey) Hullinger of Niles, siblings; Richard (Sharon) Lane of Niles, Kenneth (Mary Ann) Lane of Niles, and Patsy (Carroll) Mead of Niles; nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren. Her love for her family was evident in her everyday actions, from cooking family meals to supporting her children in all their endeavors.

Preceding Shirley in death are her parents, Lavall and Dorothy (Luther) Lane, husband, Charles Joanis, Children; Kathryn Kozlowski, and Timothy Colcord, Siblings; Betty Thomas, Calvin Lane, Susan Horvot, Thelma Worl, Nancy Amundson, Terry and Danny Lane, and Diane Stowe and a grandchild.

Throughout her life, Shirley was an active and passionate member of her community. She held a lifetime membership at the Moose Lodge #978 of Niles, where she enjoyed spending time and contributing to local initiatives. Always willing to lend a hand, Shirley's commitment to serving others was a testament to her generous spirit.

Shirley was a woman of many interests and pleasures. She found joy in the simple things, like reading romance novels and watching soap operas at home. She also loved going shopping, especially at yard and estate sales, always on the lookout for unique finds. Card games with her family were a favorite pastime, filled with laughter and friendly competition.

A passionate supporter of the University of Michigan, Shirley never missed an opportunity to root for her team. Her adventurous spirit also led her to enjoy camping and taking occasional trips to the bowling alley. These interests not only brought her personal joy but also created lasting memories with her loved ones.

In keeping with her wishes, she will be laid to rest at Silverbrook Cemetery in Niles and remembered privately by her family. Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home, Niles. www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.

Described as loving, passionate, and adventurous, Shirley's spirit, kindness, and zest for life will be remembered by all who knew her. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, as they continue to be inspired by her unwavering love and dedication to her family and community.

Miller, Lonnie Joe 1953-2023

Lonnie Joe Miller, 70, of Niles
Aug. 5, 1953-Sept. 5, 2023

Niles Daily Star, Published 7:10 pm Tuesday, September 5, 2023 

Lonnie Joe Miller, 70, of Niles, died Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2023. Hoven Funeral Home, Buchanan.

Published on Hoven Funeral Home website:

Lonnie Joe Miller of Niles, Michigan | 1953 - 2023 | Obituary

Lonnie Joe Miller, age 70, known fondly as Joe to his friends and family, was born on August 5, 1953, in South Bend, Indiana, and graced this world with his vibrant spirit until September 5, 2023. A courageous soul, Lonnie made his mark on the world with his compassionate heart, generous spirit, and contagious humor. He was a proud resident of Niles, Michigan, and a dedicated contractor by profession, painting life not just through his work but through his jovial nature.

Raised in the Methodist Church, Lonnie lived his life in line with the teachings of Proverbs 11:25, "A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed." He was a standout athlete in football and track at Niles High School, a testament to his competitive spirit and dedication. His love for sports didn't end there; Lonnie was a dedicated Michigan Football fan and an avid follower of Big 10 conference athletics. His generosity extended beyond family and friends, as he tirelessly volunteered in support of community charities and food programs, embodying his belief in giving back to the community.

Lonnie is survived by his loving mother, Alma Hatcher Miller, his beloved children Lonnie, Darrell, Dwight, and Jacob Miller, his caring siblings Linda Quinn Moseray, Dannie Quinn, Millajean (Ken) Miller Bradley, Joan Lawona Miller, Norwood Miller, Albert Miller, Milton Miller, David Miller and many nieces and nephews, including his special nephews Ronnie Quinn, Daniel Quinn and his special friends, Arthur Morgan, Ricky Fouche, Danny Palmer and Bruce Smith. He was greeted in heaven by his father, Green Miller, his brother Jonnie Quinn, son Dwayne Miller Palmer, and nephew Aaron Miller.

Please join us in celebrating Lonnie's life on Monday, September 11, 2023, at Hoven Funeral Home, 414 East Front Street, Buchanan, Michigan, 49107, with visitation at 10:00 am EDT and funeral services at 12:00 pm EDT. As we gather to remember this extraordinary man, we invite you to share your memories of Lonnie on the memorial page. Your stories and pictures will serve as a testament to the love and joy he brought into our lives. Lonnie's spirit will live on in each of us, reminding us to be courageous, compassionate, funny, and generous in all that we do.

Smith, Judy Lynn (Tinkey) 1944-2023

Judy Lynn Tinkey Smith
December 24, 1944 — November 17, 2023
formerly of Niles, Michigan

Published on website of Halbritter-Wickens Funeral Home:

Obituary

Judy Lynn Tinkey Smith, age 78, of Clinton Township, Michigan (formerly of Niles), joined our Heavenly Father on the 17th of November after a brave and courageous struggle with dementia and kidney disease. She was born in Elkhart, Indiana on December 24, 1944 to Kenneth and Jayne Tinkey. 

She is survived by her three children: Scott, Mark, and Robin (Brian) Petras, and her grandchildren Alexander and Rebecca Petras. She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 47 years, Jim Goldwyn (formerly of Buchanan). Jim and Judy were married at the First Presbyterian Church in Niles, Michigan in 1967. She leaves behind her brother Daniel (Susan) Tinkey. 

Judy adored her grandchildren and proudly supported them in swimming, archery, band, and softball. She enjoyed family vacations on the west side of Michigan and in Colorado. Judy looked forward to college basketball season and especially cheering on her favorite team Notre Dame. Judy was passionate about the community and volunteered at the Lorenzo Cultural Center, participated in bible study at church, and enjoyed spending time with her friends from work. 

Judy graduated from Niles High School. She earned an undergraduate degree from Western Michigan University and a Masters from Eastern Michigan University. She taught high school Social Studies at Kellwood Adult and Alternative Education Program and South Lake High School. Her sense of humor and wit entertained not only her students but friends and colleagues as well. She had a mastery of all subjects and was a highly respected teacher.

The Visitation and Funeral for Judy Smith will be offered in Warren, Michigan on Tuesday and Wednesday, November 21 and 22.  On Saturday, November 25, the family will gather in Niles at her graveside in Silverbrook Cemetery for Committal Services at 11:00 a.m.

Arrangements in Niles were completed at the Halbritter-Wickens Funeral Home, 615 East Main Street.  Online memories may be left at:

www.halbritterwickens.com

Reed, Allegra E. (Grasenack) 1928-2023

Allegra E. Reed
October 16, 1928 — November 10, 2023

Published on Halbritter-Wickens Funeral Home website:

Obituary

Allegra E. “Aggie” Reed, age 95 years of Niles, Michigan; mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, housekeeper, gardener, and word puzzle fan died peacefully at 2:42 p.m. on Friday, November 10, 2023 at the Hanson Hospice Center in Stevensville, Michigan following an extended illness.

She was born on October 16, 1928 in Chicago, Illinois to Gustav W. H. and Josephine (Pietales) Grasenack, but came as a small child with her family to Niles.  She was graduated from Niles High School, and was first employed at the former Niles plant of Simplicity Pattern Company, working in the bookbinding department, and then began a career in housekeeping at area hotels.  She was later employed for many years in housekeeping at Memorial Hospital in South Bend, Indiana.

Aggie attended the Coulter’s Chapel Church of God in Niles as a child with her family, and has always considered Coulter’s Chapel as her home church.  At home, she enjoyed flower gardening, especially roses, irises, and tulips, and had a great appreciation for lighthouses.  She kept her mind active with books full of various word puzzles such as Word Search.

On October 23, 1954 in Roseland, Indiana she was married to Eddie H. Reed by the Justice of the Peace.  Eddie and Aggie celebrated the remarkable Sixty-seventh Anniversary of their wedding just months prior to his death on December 18, 1921.

Surviving family includes their children, Edward H. Reed, Eugene H. Reed, and Theresa A. Reed, all of  Niles; grandson Edward Christopher “Chris” Reed (& Stacy Borr); and great-grandchildren Parker Borr and Evelyn Borr.

The family of Allegra Reed will gather privately for Committal Services at her graveside in Silverbrook Cemetery in Niles with Pastor David Frazier of Coulter’s Chapel officiating.  Arrangements were completed at the Halbritter-Wickens Funeral Home, 615 East Main Street in Niles.  Online memories may be left at:

www.halbritterwickens.com

Aggie led a simple life, doing what needed to be done every day, but in so doing, she helped hotels to provide shelter to guests, helped a hospital to safely provide care and healing for patients, and successfully raised three children, loved her grandson and his children, and took care of Eddie; all evidence of loving God and loving people.