Alfred L. Faulkner
June 14, 1957 – August 11, 2026
Alfred L. Faulkner, 69, of Gould City, passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, August 11, 2026, at his home, with his devoted wife, Arlee, and his faithful Pomeranian companion, “Ginger,” by his side.
Born June 14, 1957, in Grand Rapids to the late Larry and Mildred (Johnson) Faulkner, Alfred lived a life deeply rooted in hard work, love for the outdoors, and the simple joys of companionship. Over the years, he held many jobs, but his heart belonged to the woods—working as a logger, cutting timber, and driving his skidder through the quiet beauty of nature.
Alfred’s happiest moments were spent outside—camping under the stars, fishing in peaceful waters, hunting and trapping, or simply riding through Simmons Woods with Arlee. Wherever he went, “Ginger” was never far behind, a constant and loyal friend.
In addition to his parents, Alfred was preceded in death by his son and his brother, Russ.
He is survived by his loving wife, the former Arlee Tobias, whom he married on March 10, 2006, in Engadine; daughters Angela (Gary) Wheeler of Lowell, Massachusetts, and Cindy Faulkner and friend Donavan of Sheridan; stepdaughter Carrie Tobias of Marquette; granddaughter MaKaylah Clark of Frostproof, Florida; siblings Tammy (Gary) DiPizzia of Bear Lake, Diane (Joe) Moroski of Grand Rapids, and Patrick (Stacy) Faulkner of Gowen; as well as several cousins, nieces, nephews, and a very special friend, Katrina Sovey of Flint, who was like a daughter to him.
Per Alfred’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and no public services will be held.
Condolences may be shared at www.beaulieufuneralhome.com. Beaulieu Funeral Home in Newberry is assisting the family.
Donny “Ray” Brown
March 4, 1943 – August 12, 2026
Donny “Ray” Brown, 83, of Deer Park, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday morning, August 12, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born on March 4, 1943, in Teaberry, Kentucky, Ray was the son of the late John and Oma (Hamilton) Brown. In his youth, he moved with his family to Gibraltar, Michigan, and graduated from Trenton High School in 1961. He later attended the Detroit Carpenters Apprenticeship School, beginning a lifelong career in carpentry. Ray worked throughout downstate Michigan for many years, building with skill, dedication, and pride until his retirement.
A seasonal visitor to Deer Park for years, Ray purchased a cabin and, in 2001, made the area his permanent home. He poured his craftsmanship into remodeling and expanding his home, creating a place filled with warmth and character. An avid outdoorsman, Ray found his greatest joy in the simple beauty of nature—whether hunting, fishing, or simply taking in the quiet peace of the woods. His loyal companion, a dog affectionately named “Bob,” was never far from his side, sharing in countless adventures and moments alike.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents; his step-son, David Stringer; and siblings Bonnie Brown, Jeffrey Brown, Diane Luzcynski, and Larry Brown.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia (Jung) Brown, whom he married on May 30, 1981, in Allen Park; his step-son William Stringer of Deer Park; sons Scott Brown of Riverview and Mark (Melodi) Brown of Brownstown; daughter Lora Banwell of Southgate; ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, all of whom he cherished deeply; siblings Bill (Rhonda) Brown of South Rockwood, James Brown of Woodhaven, Delores (Don) Parmenter of Flat Rock, Geri (Rob) McDuffy of South Rockwood, and John Brown of Michigan; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Per his wishes, cremation has taken place. A gathering of family and friends to celebrate Ray’s life will be held at a later date.
Condolences may be shared at www.beaulieufuneralhome.com.
Beaulieu Funeral Home in Newberry is assisting the family.
Neil Douglas McArthur
May 29, 1969 – August 13, 2026
Neil Douglas McArthur, age 57, passed away on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at McLaren Hospital in Petoskey, Michigan.
Neil was born on May 29, 1969, in Manistique, Michigan, to Donald and Marilyn McArthur. He graduated from Engadine High School in 1987 and later attended Grand Rapids Community College to become a master mechanic. With this education he owned and operated his own business and later became a pipeline mechanic. A dedicated worker, Neil took great pride in his profession and in serving his community.
For many years, Neil served as chief of the Newton Township Fire Department. His leadership, commitment, and willingness to help others reflected the generous spirit with which he lived his life.
Neil found great happiness in the people and activities he loved. He enjoyed golfing, hunting, and fishing, and he shared his love of music as the drummer for the Rivers Bend Band. Some of his most treasured moments were spent coaching his children in basketball and soccer, proudly supporting them and creating memories they would carry throughout their lives.
Neil will be lovingly remembered by his mother, Marilyn McArthur of Gould City, Michigan; his children, Forrest McArthur and Kendall Stasser of Royal Oak, Michigan, Hannah McArthur and Caleb Gelinas of Sanford, Michigan, and Ian and Madison McArthur of Bellingham, Washington; and his siblings, Julie and Brian Krombeen of Cedar, Michigan, Duncan and Sherry MacArthur of Engadine, Michigan, Mary and Tony Russo of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Laura and Randy Gribbell of Gould City, Michigan.
He was preceded in death by his father, Donald McArthur.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at Saint Timothy Catholic Mission Church in Curtis, Michigan. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. and continue until the Mass at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Newton Township Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be given to the family for future designation.
Fausett Family Funeral Homes is assisting the family with arrangements and services.
Neil will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his service to his community, his hard work, and the joy he found in music, sports, and the outdoors. His life touched many, and his memory will remain a source of comfort and strength to all who knew and loved him.
