Frances Koceba

Funeral Information

Visitation for Fran's "final goodbyes" will be on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, beginning at 10 am until mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 am at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Rapson, following a "walk with Fran" to her final resting place at the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers or mass offerings, Fran's request, your generosity to: St. Thomas Aquinas Out Reach mass, 955 Alton Rd, East Lansing, 48823, OLLH Catholic School in Harbor Beach, or the St. Joseph Catholic Church Cemetery in Rapson fund. Fran thanks the wonderful staff from Heartland Hospice for their wonderful care, even though being stubborn, she felt happy. The family would like to thank the same with their guidance during her "part of death process." Arrangements are being handled by the Ramsey Funeral Home of Harbor Beach. Memories can be shared at www.RamseyFH.com

Family of the Deceased

Fran is survived by her daughters: Merry Chris Mankin, of Maryland, Sandy of Bad Axe, grandson: Fred (Kerrie), great granddaughter Ronni, of Grindstone City; grandsons: Adam Mankin, of Colorado, Tyler Mankin of Maryland, sisters: Bea Kubacki, Pat (Herb) Vogel, and many nieces and nephews. Fran was preceded in death by her siblings: infant Margaret Susalla, William (Martha) Susalla, Theresa (Paul) Skipinski, Eleanor (Frank) Talaski, Art (Marie) Susalla, Irene (Gordon) Eden, Agnes (Eugene) Gorkowski, Jake (Evelyn) Susalla, brother-in-law Clarence Kubacki, in-laws: Ed (Leona) Koceba, Herman (Helen) Kociba, Gertie (Bill) Dudek, Irene (Frank) Costello, Margaret Puckette, Bertha (Jack) Schmelzer, Tillie (Joe) Marenick.

Biography

On July 18, 2026 as the Lord called Frances Koceba, "you can come home now" being welcomed by her husband of 73 years Izzy, daughter Judith Anna and son Ronald Anthony. Frances (Fritz) Josephine was born on December 15, 1922 to the late Fabian and Mary (Abraham) Susalla, being the sixth of eleven children. Fran's first life adventure started at the age of 18, (1940) moving to Detroit working as an A-1 inspector for Briggs' Manufacturing. A job she truly loved. In 1945, on June 8, Fran became Mrs. Isadore (Izzy) Koceba at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Parisville. In 1949, moving to Rapson taking over the family farm having four children of their own. They joined St. Joseph's Catholic Church where Fran became a member of the Daughters of Isabella, St. Rita Altar Society and having a passion of decorating the church altar with her own style of flower arrangements for Sunday masses. Becoming members of the Rapson Sportsmens' Club, Fran was given a surprise birthday party by her family and friends. An active bowler twice a week in Bad Axe and golfer in Cass City, they became members of the Rolling Hills Golf Course. Selling the farm in 1976, they became "snowbirds: in Florida during the winter months, where Fran mastered the art of macramé. After 26 years, they moved to Bad Axe in 1993, joining the Senior Center where she enjoyed bingo on Thursday's. After the passing of Izzy in 2018, Fran's final journey began with game shows, word search puzzles and spending time with her great granddaughter

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Frank Talaski Jr.

Funeral Information

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 23, 2026 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, St. Roch Catholic Church in Caseville. Frank’s family will be present to receive visitors on Wednesday at the Ransford Funeral Home in Pigeon from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with a time for sharing memories beginning at 6:00 p.m and at the church on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of his service. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to Caseville Food Bank ? Caseville Methodist Church, PO BOX 1027 Caseville, MI 48725. The family was assisted with these arrangements by the Ransford Funeral Home - Pigeon. Friends may share memories, thoughts, and prayers online at www.RansfordFuneralHome.com.

Family of the Deceased

Frank is survived by Elaine Talaski; his children Trudy Gage, Tammy Wrobel, Todd (Dawn) Talaski, Tina (Danny) Burke, and Traci (Ted) Ens; his brothers Richard Talaski, Taco (Jean) Talaski, Eugene Talaski, and Fred (Julie) Talaski; his sister in laws Joyce Stirrett and Carol (Tim) Majeski; and his grandchildren Eric (Lauren) Teasdle, Adam (Baily) Teasdle, Heather Tolitsky, Hope Tolitsky, Abby (Shevin) Martin, Bryce Talaski, Preston Warren, JT Warren, Tiffany (Jason) Zurek, Erica Sweeny, and Andrew (Nicole) Messing. He also leaves behind sixteen great-grandchildren who brought him endless joy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Elanor Talaski; his in-laws, Phoebe and Ed Lemanski; sons-in-law, David Teasdle and Jim Wrobel; sisters-in-law, Til Talaski and Ilene Talaski; brother-in-law, Doug Stirrett; nephew, Troy Stirrett; and many aunts, uncles, and dear friends who welcomed him home.

Biography

Frank Phillip Talaski Jr., age 87, of Bad Axe/Caseville passed away peacefully Friday, July 17, 2026 surrounded by family. Frank lived a life full of motion, laughter, and the simple joys that made every day meaningful. A proud father of five, he poured his heart into his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Family was his greatest pride, and he loved nothing more than seeing them gather, grow, and enjoy life together. Frank served his country with honor in the United States Army(1957-1959) carrying the values of dedication, discipline, and loyalty with him throughout his life. He embraced the outdoors with enthusiasm. He loved camping, boating, snowmobiling, fishing, golfing, and always had a great story to tell — hobbies that shaped countless memories with family and friends. At age 81, he achieved every golfer’s dream: a hole-in-one, a moment he carried with pride and joy. He enjoyed euchre nights, tending to his garden, and growing pumpkins that became a yearly tradition. Frank also had a special love for Christmas. Every year, he proudly chose and cut down an over-the-top Christmas tree with his grandchildren, turning the holiday into a joyful tradition his family will always remember with a smile. He was famous for his chili — a recipe that wasn’t just food, but a memory. Friends and family looked forward to it, talked about it, and bragged about it. His chili was part of who he was, and sharing it brought him genuine happiness. He enjoyed visiting the casino here and there, just enough to add a little excitement and fun to his days. He spent his working years as a truck driver, a job that suited his independence and grit. Long ago, he took over Talaski Building Movers, carrying on the legacy of his father-in-law, Ed Lemanski. He ran the business with pride and skill, eventually turning it over to his son Todd, ensuring the family tradition continued into the next generation. Even after retiring from trucking, Frank didn’t slow down — he went right back to driving, hauling sugar beets and staying connected to the work and people he enjoyed. Florida became his winter home for the past 25 years, a place where he could relax, golf, and enjoy euchre with his friends. Those months meant a lot to him — a slower pace that let him enjoy life exactly the way he liked it.

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Mary Schantz

Funeral Information

Cremation has taken place. A memorial Service will take place on July 29, 2026 at the Light & Life Free Methodist Church in Lakeland, Florida at 11 am. Arrangements are being handled by the Ramsey Funeral Home of Harbor Beach. Memories can be shared at www.RamseyFH.com

Family of the Deceased

Mary Kay is survived by her loving husband of 62 years, Dale Schantz, Her two children Chris Schantz (Pam), Carmen Schantz (Misty), Grandchildren, Courtney Yost (Mitchell), Dylan Schantz, Jordan Schantz (Noah Hinds) and one Great-grandchild Alex Yost. She was preceded in death by her parents Merrit and Virginia Woodward.

Biography

Mary Kay left this earth and entered her heavenly home, with family by her side, on July 7, 2026. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held July 29 , 2026 at 11:00 at Light And Life Free Methodist Church in Lakeland Florida with burial in Valley Cometery Ubly Mi. Mary Kay was born on February 10, 1945, to Merrit and Virginia Woodward. She graduated from Bad Axe High in 1963. Mary Kay and Dale Schantz were united in marriage on December 28, 1963. She was a member of the Bad Axe Free Methodist church for many years, until moving to Florida in 2015, then transferring her membership to the Light and Life Free Methodist Church in Lakeland Florida. She loved her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. When she went on hospice, she got so excited when people came to visit! Her face would light up with a big smile, and she’d point to heaven and tell them, “I know where I am going, and I am ready to go”. She was looking forward to meeting her Lord and Savior Jesus, face to face.

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Marcia Felczak

Funeral Information

Funeral Services for Marcia will be Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 5 pm, at the Ramsey Funeral Home of Harbor Beach, with cremation to follow. Visitation will be on Saturday, beginning at 1 pm until time of services at 5 pm. Memories can be shared at www.RamseyFH.com

Family of the Deceased

She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Michael; her children, Michael Jr. and Beth Felczak, and Erica and Jason Meldrum; and her beloved grandchildren, Audrina, Erin, and Michael, who were the light of her life. She treasured every moment spent with them, creating memories that they would carry with them forever.

Biography

Marcia Anne Felczak, 73, of Harbor Beach, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Marcia was a devoted wife, loving mother, and proud grandmother whose greatest joy in life was her family. She shared a loving marriage with her husband, Michael, and together they built a home filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Marcia enjoyed playing bingo, crocheting, and, above all, spending time with her grandchildren. Whether she was working on a crochet project, enjoying a game of bingo with friends, or sharing laughter with her family, she found joy in life's simple moments. Her warm smile, gentle spirit, and caring heart made everyone around her feel welcomed and loved. Marcia's kindness, strength, and unconditional love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. While her passing leaves an immeasurable void, her family takes comfort in the beautiful memories they shared and the lasting legacy of love she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by her family and friends

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Joyce Winkel

Funeral Information

Funeral Mass for Joyce will be Thursday, July 16, 2026 at 11 am, at Our Lady of Lake Huron Catholic Church, of the Holy Name of Mary Parish, with Fr. Kevin Wojciechowski officiating. Burial will follow in the OLLH Church Cemetery. Visitation for Joyce will be on Wednesday, from 3-8pm at the Ramsey Funeral Home of Harbor Beach. Visitation on Thursday, will be at the church, beginning at 10 am until time of services at 11 am. A Rosary Service will take place on Wednesday, at 7 pm, at the funeral home. Memories can be shared at www.RamseyFH.com

Family of the Deceased

Joyce is survived by her children: Rick (Kim) Winkel of Ubly, Pauline (David) Guigar of Cass City, Margie (David) Poppeck of Port Hope, Lori (Lauren) Mazure of Harbor Beach, Brenda (Tom Peyerk) Taylor of Filion and Carol (Manuel) Abella of Menifee, California, 18 grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren, brothers: Leonard Jr. (Myrt) Schumacher, Donald (Betty) Schumacher and Steve Schumacher, sisters: JoAnne Zdrojewski, and Mary Lou (Tom) Wichert, brothers and sisters-in-law: Shirley Braun, Robert (Jean) Winkel, Jerry (Evelyn) Winkel, and several nieces and nephews. Joyce was preceded in death by her parents: Leonard and Mary Schumacher, her brothers: Mike Schumacher, Larry Schumacher, Bobbie Schumacher, sister; Marlene Schumacher, sister-in-law: Mary Schumacher, her father and mother-in-law: Irvin and Genevieve Winkel, brother-in-law: Earl Braun, sister-in-law: Ilene (Bob) Parrish, nephews: Bruce Parrish, Chad Schumacher, and niece Janet Braun.

Biography

Joyce Marie (Schumacher) Winkel, age 80 of Port Hope, passed away Saturday, July 11, 2026 at her home. Joyce was born on September 12, 1945 in Bad Axe to the late Leonard & Mary (Schmitz) Schumacher. Joyce married the love of her life, Melvin Winkel, on October 19, 1963. He preceded her in death on November 6, 2012. Joyce worked for Dott Manufacturing for 10 years, then moved to California where she worked for Guidant Manufacturing for 20 years where she retired and moved back to Michigan, to be closer with her family. She was a member of the Holy Name of Mary parish of harbor Beach, and enjoyed reading, watching old time sit com shows, travelling out west, and listening to Gospel Music.

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Michael Burkhard

Funeral Information

Funeral Service for Mike will be on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at 11:30 am at the Ubly Foxhunter's Club. Visitation for Mike will be on Tuesday, at the Ubly Foxhunter's Club, from 4-8pm, and on Wednesday, beginning at 10 am until time of services at 11:30 am. Burial will take place at Sacred Heart Church Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Family Discretionary Fund. Arrangements are being handled by the Ramsey Funeral Home of Harbor Beach. Memories can be shared at www.RamseyFH.com

Family of the Deceased

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Karen Burkhard, his children: Eric Burkhard and Tami (Randy) Gallgher; his beloved grandson, Finn Gallagher, his sisters: Cindy (Clem) Maurer, Brenda (Terry) Kennedy, Pamela Rivard, Deborah (significant other Tom) Rogers, and Darlene (Joe) Candela; his brother Tom (Laura) Burkhard; his sister-in-law: Kathy Burkhard, brothers-in-law: Dave (Debbie) Jaworski and Mike (Debbie) Jaworski, sisters-in-law: Sandy (Nick) Jaworski and Renee Kretz; and several nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Brian Burkhard, his brother: Harley Burkhard; his sister: Patricia Burkhard, his mother-in-law. Phyllis Jaworski, his father-in-law, Mike Jaworski, brothers-in-law, Larry Rivard, Jim Rogers, Steven Kretz, and Fred Duggan; and nephews Jason Maurer and Steven Jaworski. Mike's legacy will not be measured by the pipes he repaired or the business he built, but by the lives he touched through his kindness, quiet generosity, unwavering work ethic, and unconditional love for his family. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Our family would like to express our deepest gratitude to Matt Klosowski for the unwavering support you have given us. Your willingness to always step in, lend a helping hand, and simply be there will never be forgotten. We are forever grateful for all you have done.

Biography

Michael "Mike" Charles Burkhard, affectionately known as "Burkey" to family, friends, and customers alike, and lovingly called "Grumpy Gramps" by his grandson, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home on July 11, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was 72 years old. Born on January 17, 1954, in Detroit to the late Harley and Angeline Burkhard, Mike graduated from Bad Axe High School in 1972. He began working alongside his father in the family business, Burkhard Plumbing & Heating, in 1975, and earned his Master Plumber and Mechanical Licenses. In 1992, he and his sister, Cindy Maurer, took over the family business, leading it until his retirement in 2019. He devoted more than four decades to the trade and serving his community with honesty, hard work, and skill. Outside of work, Mike enjoyed hunting and fishing throughout his life. In recent years, he especially cherished goose hunting with his nephew, Luke Duggan, and yearly fishing trips to Canada with dear friends. Whether he was in the outdoors or visiting with friends over a cold beer, he was happiest surrounded by the people he loved. One of his greatest joys was driving around town in his golf cart with his grandson by his side, creating memories that will be treasured forever.

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