Menzo Edward Caswell
Longtime Newberry resident, Menzo Edward Caswell, passed away peacefully Tuesday morning, October 20, 2020 at Helen Newberry Joy Hospital two days shy of his 102nd birthday. Born October 22, 1918 in Carp Lake, son of the late Amsy Lee and Celia (Griffis) Caswell, Menzo grew up in the Newberry/McMillan area experiencing many life changing challenges, adventures and accomplishments. His quick wit and sense of humor left an imprint on all he loved or met. He brought out a smile or a laugh whether it be in a joke, a “Menzoism” saying, or a huge hug. Menzo served in the Civilian Conservation Corp. from 1939 to 1941. On May 6, 1941, he enlisted in the United States Army serving during World War II until his honorable discharge on August 19, 1945 attaining the rank of Technician Fifth Grade. Returning to Newberry, Menzo was employed at the former Newberry Regional Mental Health Center for 31 years, retiring as a Ward Supervisor. During this time, he served in the 1437th Engineer Army National Guard until his honorable discharge from the reserves on March 8, 1963. Following his retirement, Menzo continued employment as a Funeral Assistant at Beaulieu Funeral Home as a livery driver and once jokingly said that they were the best passengers to travel with. Menzo was extremely active in the community both socially and volunteering. He was a member of the AFL Union, the Tahquamenon Outboard Association, the Lions Club, the B.P.O.E. #1705 Elks Lodge, McMillan Lodge #400 F & AM, F.O.E. Aerie #3701 Eagles Club, the 40/8, the American Legion Post #74, the V.F.W. and the Newberry United Methodist Church. His spare time was spent gardening, hunting, fishing, camping, building, dancing, fixing things and enjoying his family. Three milestones in Menzo’s life were receiving his honorary high school diploma at the Newberry High School Commencement in 2013, participating in the U.P. Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., and Grand Marshall of the Newberry Fourth of July Parade. In addition to his parents, Menzo is preceded in death by his first wife of 46 years Ida Caswell; siblings Leslie, Alvin, Chester, Amysee, Lela Venuto and Velma Grames. Survivors include his loving wife, the former Sandra Green of Newberry, whom he married April 25, 2004 in Engadine; daughters Cathy (Cliff) Fossitt of Newberry, Shirley Howell of Mt. Pleasant and Rhonda (Carroll) Parker of Battle Creek; son-in-law Mack Howell of Newberry. Reaching the age of “102” allowed him to play games, share history, tell stories and, of course, preach many life lessons to his nine grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren and several great, great-great and great-great-great nieces and nephews. A public liturgical graveside service with full military honors conducted by the American Legion Post #74 and the United States Army Honor Guard will be held Friday, October 30, 2020 at 12:00 noon at Forest Home Cemetery in Newberry with Pastor Jackie Roe officiating. Due to COVID-19, social distancing and masks will be required in accordance of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Memorials may be directed to The Link, the Tahquamenon Area Senior Citizens, or the Newberry United Methodist Church in his memory. Condolences may be expressed at www.beaulieufuneralhome.com. Beaulieu Funeral Home in Newberry is assisting the family.
