Thomas D. Kenney
September 8, 1954 – August 6, 2023
Thomas “Tom” Dickson Kenney, 68, of Curtis, died Sunday evening, August 6, 2023 at his residence following a courageous battle with melanoma.
Born September 8, 1954 in South Haven, son of the late William and Dorothy (Dickson) Kenney, Tom attended St. Basil Catholic School and was a graduate of South Haven High School. Tom furthered his education graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Environmental Science from Aquinas College.
While attending Aquinas College, one semester traveling abroad introduced Tom to the country of Ireland, a place he would return to often, eventually locating relatives who have occupied the same plot of farmland outside of Waterford for some 200 years.
Tom held several employment positions before moving to Charlevoix. He joined his uncle’s lumber yard where he eventually replaced his father upon his retirement. He would further pursue employment in the field of accounting for the majority of his career.
In the early 2000’s, Tom moved to the Upper Peninsula, owning and operating Northland Outfitters, a campground and canoe livery in Germfask. He also was an accountant for the Erickson Center of the Arts in Curtis and Paul Bush CPA in Newberry.
From 2005 to 2022, Tom was a volunteer at the Seney National Wildlife Center for several years and also serving as a trustee. From 2014 to 2018, he served as a volunteer and former President of the Friends of the Seney National Wildlife Refuge.
Tom enjoyed the silent sports of hiking, camping, canoeing and kayaking. The annual back-country ski trips with the same eight guys for over 40 years was the highlight of every year.
Survivors include his longtime companion, Linda Vos of Curtis, whom he met in 2015; step-sons Dennis Newell of Hutchinson, Minnesota and Danny Newell of Grand Rapids; six step-grandchildren and three step-great-grandchildren; siblings Mary Ann (Robert) Mielke of South Haven, Jim (Jennifer) Kenney of Charlevoix and Joan (Gary) Shaver of Charlevoix; several nieces and nephews.
Per his request, cremation services were accorded. A gathering of family and friends celebrating the life of Tom will be held Saturday, August 19, 2023 at 2:00 pm at the Erickson Center for the Arts in Curtis.
Condolences may be expressed at www.beaulieufuneralhome.com.
Beaulieu Funeral Home in Newberry is assisting the family.
“Sláinte”
Barbara Ann Berry
October 15, 1942 – August 12, 2023
Barbara Ann “Barb” Berry (daughter of Nels and Vera Maddox), 80, of Curtis, Michigan, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2023. She was born on October 15, 1942, in McMillan, Michigan.
Barb was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. She is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Ron “Ludy”, and their children Basil (Beth) Berry and Kristine (Grant) Morain. Barb was also a cherished grandmother to her grandchildren Blake, Devon, and Beckett and a much-loved sister-in-law to Lynn Maki, Sherry Gerwatowski, and Roger (Dawn) Berry. Barb attended Newberry High School, graduating with the class of 1961.
Her warm presence and caring nature will be deeply missed by all who knew her. With Ludy, she created wonderful, beautifully decorated homes in Goodrich and Curtis. Her loving support of family and friends made everyone feel welcome and special. Any time spent with her was filled with laughter and joy, with special memories of her sister, Judy, her daughter, and her friend Ann. She never turned down a Taco Tuesday or an opportunity to dance. She also found great fulfillment in her work at Goodrich High School and her drapery business. Everyone knew her incredible strength and determination, especially in recent years.
Per request, cremation services were accorded. A graveside service will be held Saturday August 19, 2023 at 11:00 am at the Columbus Township Cemetery in McMillan with Pastor Paul Williams, of Northstar Baptist Church, officiating.
Condolences may be expressed at www.beaulieufuneralhome.com.
Beaulieu Funeral Home in Newberry is assisting the family.
Arlene Frances Hill
January 25, 1930 – August 7, 2023
Longtime Newberry resident, Arlene Frances Hill, 93, died Monday afternoon August 7, 2023 at Golden Leaves Living Center in Newberry. Arlene was born January 25, 1930 in Kent City, daughter of the late Russell and Frances (Johnson) Anderson.
Arlene was employed as a bank teller at the former Newberry State Bank and later at the Tahquamenon Area Credit Union for several years until her retirement. Arlene was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church and enjoyed reading, music, puzzles, quilting, sewing, cooking and baking for her family.
In addition to her parents, Arlene is preceded in death by her son-in-law Jerry Roach, daughter-in-law Rita Hill, sister Jean Afton and brother-in-law Max Freeland.
Survivors include her children Denise Roach of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Michael (Dixie) Hill of Rapid River, Beth (Mark Noble) Fritz of Curtis and Andrea (Robert) Marsh of Newberry; 10 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren; siblings Joyce (Lynn) Lewis, Tuff (Jo) Anderson, Marvin (O’Linda) Anderson, Ron Anderson, Wayne (Janice) Anderson, Keith (Linda) Anderson, Nancy Freeland, Dawn (Gene) Churchill, Gary (Diane) Anderson, Sue (Marv) Knauf, Sally (John) Anderson, Ken (Sue) Anderson, Bonnie (Steve) Butler, and Dean (Francine) Anderson; several nieces and nephews.
A gathering of family and friends will take place Saturday August 26, 2023 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church. A memorial service celebrating the life of Arlene will follow at 11:00 am at the church with Pastor Melinda VanderSys officiating. Interment will take place at Forest Home Cemetery.
Memorials may be directed to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Arlene’s loving memory.
Condolences may be expressed at www.beaulieufuneralhome.com.
Beaulieu Funeral Home in Newberry is assisting the family.
