Obituaries for the week of 10/14/2026

Robert “Bob” Thomas Freeman
February 17, 1957 – October 6, 2026

Robert “Bob” Thomas Freeman, 69, of Newberry and a longtime resident of Engadine, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, October 6, 2026.

Bob was born on February 17, 1957, in Newberry, the son of the late Joseph and Helen (Jusilla) Freeman. He was a 1975 graduate of Engadine Consolidated Schools and later attended Northern Michigan University in Marquette.

Bob was a man who was most at home in the woods. He spent several years working for the family business, Freeman Lumber Company and Grocery Store. Later, he worked in the woods as a lumberjack before beginning a career with Louisiana-Pacific Corporation in Newberry, from which he eventually retired after 34 years in the forest industry. Whether he was hunting, fishing, camping, cutting wood, traveling, or simply spending time outdoors, Bob was happiest when he was surrounded by the places and people he loved.

A longtime member of the Hiawatha Sportsman’s Club, Bob enjoyed the outdoors not simply as a pastime, but as a way of life. He loved being in the woods and making memories with his family. Those who knew Bob will remember his love of the Upper Peninsula, his appreciation for the outdoors, and the many good times shared with family and friends.

On March 15, 1980, Bob married Julie Kay Rushford in Engadine. Together, they raised their three children and built a life filled with family, camping, time outdoors, and countless memories. They remained devoted to one another until her passing on May 28, 2024.

Life later brought Bob back together with his high school sweetheart, Cynthia (MacDonald) Taylor. The two reconnected while planning their 50th high school reunion and were united in marriage on August 22, 2026, in Curtis, Michigan. Their time together was far too short, but their reunion brought Bob a renewed happiness and companionship that meant so much to him.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his first wife, Julie Kay (Rushford) Freeman; his brother, Steve Freeman; and his grandson, Eli Morrison.

He is survived by his wife, Cynthia (MacDonald) Taylor of Lake Havasu, Arizona, and McMillan, Michigan; his children, Travis (Sarah) Freeman of Newberry, Meggan Freeman of Menominee, and Tyler (Alicia Cool) Freeman of Cheboygan; his sister, Patricia Cottle of Pickford; and his grandchildren, Laney (Casey Roberts) Puckett of Chicago Ridge, Illinois, Paige Freeman of Newberry, Mallory Morrison of Newberry, Ethan Morrison of Newberry, Ely Morrison of Newberry, Bradley Hutchinson of Newberry, Samantha Freeman of Curtis, Audrianna Baker of Cheboygan, Gracelyn Freeman of Cheboygan, and Amelia Freeman of Cheboygan. He is also survived by two great-grandchildren who are expected.

Bob will be deeply missed by his family and friends, but his memory will live on in the stories shared around campfires, the woods and places he loved, and the many memories he created with those closest to him. His love of family and the outdoors will remain a lasting part of the lives of all who knew him.

A gathering of family and friends will take place Monday October 12, 2026 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Gould City Community Church. Funeral services celebrating Bob’s life will follow at 11:00 am at the church, with Betty LaPointe officiating. Following the services, the family extends an invitation to join with them at the Garfield Township Hall in Engadine for a fellowship gathering and luncheon. Interment will take place at Engadine Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Gould City Community Church, P.O. Box 31, Gould City, Michigan 49838, or the Engadine Education Foundation, P.O. Box 273, Engadine, Michigan 49827, in Bob’s honor.

Condolences may be shared at www.beaulieufuneralhome.com.

Beaulieu Funeral Home in Newberry is assisting the family.

Marvel M. Magnuson
June 18, 1931 – October 9, 2026

Marvel Magnuson, 95, of Newberry, Michigan, passed away on October 9, 2026, at her home in the loving and comforting care of her family.

Marvel was born June 18, 1931, to Allen and Marie Bailey. She graduated from Newberry High School and married William A. “Bill” Magnuson on September 29, 1950. Together, they raised five children and shared more than 58 years of marriage before Bill passed away on March 24, 2009.
Marvel retired after 25 years at the state hospital, where she worked in nursing and the activity therapy department. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church in Newberry and sang in the choir for many years. She was also a member of the Luce County Historical Society, the American Legion Auxiliary, and the Elks Lodge, and served on the board of the Tahquamenon Logging Museum.

Marvel enjoyed walking and cross-country skiing for many years. She loved to travel and watch her grandchildren’s sporting events. Many wonderful, happy years were spent relaxing with family and friends at the cabin on Big Manistique Lake.

She was a fabulous cook and baker, happily making special family requests such as homemade pasties and pork pies, to name a few.

People were always greeted with Marvel’s beautiful smile, warm hugs, and a unique way of making each person feel special. If you asked anyone in the family who her favorite was, they all thought it was them. She always had time to listen and was proud beyond words of her family. Her laughter and enthusiasm were contagious, and her style was admired.

Even the friends of her grandchildren loved her and called her “Nana,” always being greeted with her loving hugs. She made a point of gathering all the grandchildren at the cabin, giving them memories that remain to this day and helping them become not just cousins, but best friends.

Marvel’s family includes her children, Norma Jane (Larry) Lambert, Penny, Mary Margaret and Robert Bystrom, William “Billy” (Sharon) Magnuson, and Thomas “Tom” (Abby) Magnuson.

She is also survived by her grandchildren, Kelly (Brian), Christopher (Erin), Gabriel, Sarah (Ryan), Jessica (Chad), Joshua (Sarah), Seth (Taylor), Emily (Ryan), Nicholas, Michael, Rebecca (Scott), Jeremy (Gabby), Alicia (Jeremy), Ryan (Liz), and Mallory (Dan); 22 great-grandchildren, Chase, Audrey, Brinley, Samantha, Macie, Max, Mia, Violet, Reese, Ian, Ethan, Hayden, Collin, Alexis, Riley, Riley Kay, (Nalu) Quentin, Rickie De, Mollie, Norman, Blair and Brynn; and two great-great-grandchildren, Huntleigh and Colson. Marvel was also godmother to Amy Dolholph (Hall). She is further survived by her siblings, Thomas and Kathy, along with extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill; her parents, Allen and Marie Bailey; and her siblings, Norma Jane, Eunice, Beverly, Shirley, Brady, and Ricky.

Her family feels blessed to have had her in their lives and hopes that all can be inspired by her example. Her legacy lives on in all the hearts she touched. Those who loved her can pass on that same kindness, knowing she is looking down and is proud of them all.

The family extends a heartfelt thank-you to Northwood Hospice, Calvin at Prescription Oxygen, Fassbender Hansen Funeral & Cremation Services, and First Presbyterian Church for their kindness, compassion, and support. The care shown to Marvel and the comfort given to her family have meant more than words can express.

Visitation will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Newberry on Friday, October 23, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon. The funeral service will follow at noon, with Rev. Melinda VanderSys and Rev. Nancy Barkat officiating. Burial will take place at Forest Home Cemetery in Newberry, followed by a luncheon at the American Legion.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to North Woods Hospice Foundation, Yooper Youth, or First Presbyterian Church in Newberry.

Fassbender Hansen Funeral & Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at www.fassbenderswansonhansen.com.

William H. Brandt
Died October 1, 2026

William (Bill) H. Brandt, 79 of Lennon and Newberry MI passed away on October 1, 2026, holding the hands of those he loved.

Born in Owosso MI to Glenn and Beulah Brandt, he was raised in Durand and farmed with his dad until graduating in 1964.

In 1966, Bill volunteered for service in the United States Navy and served in top secret roles until his honorable discharge as an E5 in 1972. Upon returning home from service, Bill trained in the field of die design, working his way up through the trade, eventually working as a Die Engineer with General Motors until his retirement 2008. He was well known as a subject matter expert in the area of tool and die and for having exceptional problem-solving skills.

Bill was a lifelong outdoorsman, and his photo albums are stacked full of images from his hunting and fishing adventures. In his later years, the trip he most looked forward to was walleye fishing with his daughter Melissa and son in law Bill on the Detroit River. He would beam with pride telling the ole salty dogs back at the docks how she “out fished ‘em all.”

Bill and his wife Betty Lou shared many memories in the home they built together on Twin Lakes where Betty was raised. This home was also the location of Bill’s workshop, a place where his engineering mind thrived in retirement. He discovered his passion for woodworking and teaching others the same. If you brought him an idea, he would help draw up the plans and show you how to make it. Not only did he design and build the house in Newberry, but many other items that helped make it a Home.

The most important thing that Bill ever built was his family. It came together in pieces over time, adding a daughter in her toddler years, a wife in the middle years along with her children in their teens. From there, he was able to add sons and daughters in law and eventually four grandchildren. Along with his core family, he added many friends along the way. The assembly of these people, forever tied together through his love, was Bill’s crowning achievement. If you knew Bill, you would agree that he was a truly good man.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Beulah Brandt.

Bill is survived by his wife Betty Lou, his children Melissa (Bill) Jennings, Joseph (Kristin) Hess, Amy (Matthew) Miller, his grandchildren Max, Lucas, John, and Katherine, brother Edward (Debbie) Brandt and their children Sean Brandt and Elizabeth (Jon) Woolworth and daughter Emma.

A celebration of life will be planned in Newberry Michigan at a date to be determined.

Thomas C. Vitito
February 2, 1939 – September 12, 2026

Thomas C. Vitito passed away on September 12, 2026, doing one of the many chores he loved, hauling wood for a winter of gathering around the fireplace each evening with the love of his life, Sandra Vitito.

Thomas was born on February 2, 1939, to Wesley and Marion Vitito in Saginaw, Michigan. He graduated from Saginaw High School in 1957. Upon graduation, Tom enlisted in the United States Army and served until he was honorably discharged. Service-minded, he pursued a degree in education at Northern Michigan University, earning both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Science degree, and, most importantly, meeting and marrying Sandra Jean Nelson in 1962. He later earned a Specialist Degree from Central Michigan University to further his career in educational leadership.

With an education degree in hand, Tom moved to Royal Oak, Michigan to teach at Kimball High School for 4 years before moving to Freeland, Michigan where he became a high school principal in the area and started a family. In 1977, Tom and his young family moved to Escanaba, Michigan where he first served as the Assistant Superintendent before retiring as Superintendent of Schools in 1992. During this time, Tom found time to coach Little League because he enjoyed watching young people grow and mature through their efforts in sports, school, and the community. He believed, “Young people are our future and should be given every opportunity to succeed.”

After retirement, Tom continued serving his community in various roles. He served on the Delta County Board for 10 years and on several other boards, including the St. Francis Advisory Board, Community Action Agency, Delta Landfill & Recycling, Michigan Works, County liaison to the County Road Commission, the NMU National Alumni Board, and on the Control UP Community Corrections Board. While Tom deeply valued service, his favorite role was Papa, known to his grandsons as Papa Tom or Grandpa Tom.

Tom and Sandra moved to Big Manistique Lake in Curtis in 2004. They enjoyed spending six months at the lake and six months at their condominium in Florida. Tom loved going out on Friday nights and enjoyed his membership at the Newberry American Legion and the Escanaba Elks. He enjoyed all outdoor sports and especially loved spending time with family and friends at hunting camp. Family and friends were very important to Tom throughout his life; he loved and cared deeply for them.

Tom is survived by his wife of 64 years, Sandra; sons, Chad (Judi) Vitito and Todd (Kristi) Vitito; sister, Karen (Jim) Gilleylen; sisters-in-law, Bobbi Vitito and Maxine L’Huillier; and grandsons, John, Jim, Elliot, and Miles. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Janice Schaefer; brother, Robert Vitito; brothers-in-law, Henry Mayhew, John Tuttle, Grant Schaefer, and Fran L’Huillier; and sisters-in-law, Beverly Mayhew and Janice Tuttle.

A visitation will be held at Anderson Funeral Home in Escanaba on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Full military honors will be accorded by the Delta County Veterans Council and the United States Army National Guard.

The Anderson Funeral Home is assisting the Vitito family and online condolences may be shared by visiting www.andersonfuneralhomes.net.

Ronald K. Stephens
November 13, 1953 – October 10, 2026

Ronald Keith Stephens, age 90, of Gladstone passed away Saturday, October 10, 2026, surrounded by his loving family, at his home in Gladstone. He was born June 8, 1936 in Newberry, MI and was the son Edward and Beulah (Marks) Stephens. Ron graduated from Newberry High School and married the former Ruth Kalnbach on November 13, 1953 and together they raised three children, Keith, Sandra and Gregory. Ruth preceded Ron in death on August 10, 2007.

Ron was employed as the office manager of the Luce County Road Commission for many years until his retirement in 1996. He also served as the McMillian Township Supervisor for 28 years. On June 28, 2010 he married the former Sandra Croasdell and moved to Brighten, MI. In 2020 they moved to Rock, MI and last year to Gladstone. Ron and Sandra enjoyed wintering in Florida. Ron was a member of the Newberry Elks Lodge and was an avid sports fan. He enjoyed playing baseball, basketball, golfing and bowling.

Ron is survived by wife Sandra; daughter Sandy (Michael) Waugus of Wausaukee, WI; son Greg Stephens of Newberry, MI; step sons Michael Kanerva of Rock, MI and Jerry Kanerva of Brighton, MI; several grandchildren and great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents and first wife he was preceded in death by son Keith Stephens; sisters Phyllis Carlson and Nina Williams.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm Sunday, October 18, 2026 at the Anderson Funeral Home in Gladstone. Funeral services celebrating the life of Ronald Stephens will be held at 3:00 pm Sunday at the Anderson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Sara Sleeter officiating. A luncheon will be served following the funeral services in the Bay de Noc Room located at the Anderson Funeral Home. Burial will take place at 1:00 pm Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at the Forest Home Cemetery in Newberry, MI. The Anderson Funeral Home is assisting the Stephens family with the arrangements and online condoles can be sent to the family at www.andersonfuneralhomes.net.