Obituaries

We now have over 7,000 obituaries collected about the interred here at Silverbrook Cemetery.

The obituaries are transcribed by the volunteers of the Friends of Silverbrook Cemetery from various sources.  If you see an opportunity for an addition or a correction, please email our obituary editor at obits@friendsofsilverbrook.org.

Vinnedge, Judith Ann (Barker) 1942-2025

editor Obituaries

Judith Ann Vinnedge
March 10, 1942-Aug. 22, 2024

Published on Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services website:

Judith Ann Vinnedge, 82, passed away on Thursday, August 22, 2024, in Niles, Michigan.

Judie was born on March 10, 1942 in South Bend, Indiana to the late Charles Clinton Barker and Ruth Louise (Harper) Barker.

Along with her parents, Judie was preceded in death by her loving husband, David C. Vinnedge, and daughter, Cynthia Johnson.

Left to cherish the memory of Judie are her children, Michelle (Curtis) Webber and David M. Vinnedge; son-in-law, Todd Johnson; 4 grandchildren, Derek (Emily) McWilliams, Bradley McWilliams, Kaila Johnson, and Kevin Johnson; 2 great-grandchildren, Lenora McWilliams and David A. McWilliams; siblings, Sharon Brooks and Douglas (Sue) Barker, and special friend, Jim Lewellen.

Judie was fondly known as Grandma Judie by countless preschoolers at Northside School where she was an assistant. A lifelong member of St. John's United Church of Christ since the tender age of three, she embodied the spirit of community and faith throughout her life. Judie's love for bowling and line dancing was matched only by her commitment to the joyful gatherings of the Bunco Club, where her presence lit up the room.

A true social butterfly, Judie's zest for life and infectious laughter brought warmth to every occasion. Her unwavering love for her family was the glue that bound them close, earning her the revered title of the family's backbone. Judie's legacy is one of love, joy, and the sweet memories shared with a woman whose life was a testament to the power of community, friendship, and family bonds. Her spirit will continue to inspire those who knew her, as she dances her way into eternity.

Memorial contributions in memory of Judie may be made out to St. John’s United Church of Christ, 601 Sycamore St. Niles, MI 49120.

Visitation for Judie will be on Thursday, August 29, 2024 from 12:00pm to 3:30pm with a Funeral Service to be held at 3:30pm at Brown Funeral Home, 521 East Main St. Niles, MI 49120.

 

Judie will be laid to rest privately at Silverbrook Cemetery in Niles, MI.

 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home.

 

Burns, Matthew Joel 1974-2025

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Matthew Joel Burns
September 23, 1974 — July 2, 2025

Published on Halbritter-Wickens Funeral Home website:

Matthew Joel Burns, 50, of Niles, died July 2, 2025.

His life began September 23, 1974, in Niles, the oldest of two children born to Donald Burns and Merva Zaleski.

Matthew was a graduate of Brandywine HIgh School Class of 1993. He was an avid fan of Penn State and would always watch football games on Saturday. Matthew was a clinical supervisor medical assistant at Corewell Health Lakeland in Niles within the orthopedic surgical office. He previously work at TK in New Carlisle, Home Depot in Mishawaka, Cass County Medical Facility and West Woods of Niles. He was the first person his family would call if they were hurt or needed anything at all, he was always there. Matthew played guitar and vocals in local bands, most recently Erroneous Life. He loved music, especially 80's and 90's rock. Matthew and his brother, Nathan, would work together to build or troubleshoot a variety of things, from cars to home improvement projects. His greatest passion was setting up his family's haunted house that was at his home, Nightmare on 13th and Fulkerson, and has been operating for almost nineteen years. He spent many hours on the lake, between fishing and kayaking, with Carey and Alicia. Matthew was a family man and cherished the time he spent with them.

Matthew will be greatly missed by family and friends. He is survived by his fiance Carey Modlin of Niles; her children, Alex (Zoey Swisher) Jaqua of Niles, Matthew (Ren Anderson) Jaqua of Buchanan; her granddaughter, Amaya; two step-daughters, Dannielle (Jesse) Jaynes of South Bend, Alicia McMillan of Niles; two step-sons, Matthew (Nikki) McMillan of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; Austin McMillan of Niles; two brothers, Nathan Burns of Niles, Gabriel Zaleski of Kalamazoo; mother, Merva (James) Zaleski; son-in-law, Lusman (Veronica Diaz) Roblero of South Bend; and two special dogs, Mookie and Journee.

He was preceded in death by his father; his former wife, Carrie Burns; step-daughter, Ashley Roblero; and grandson Stephen Dunifin.

Family and friends will gather Wednesday, July 9, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in Halbritter Wickens Funeral Services, 615 East Main Street, Niles, Michigan, 49120. Funeral services will be Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in Summit Church, 1700 West River Road, Niles, Michigan, 49120.

Matthew will be laid to rest in Silverbrook Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Halbritter Wickens Funeral Services, Niles. Please share a memory or a message online: halbritterwickens.com.

Scanlon, Diana Ann 1970-2025

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Diana Ann Scanlon
Nov. 23, 1970-Nov. 13, 2025

Published on website of Palmer-Hoven Funeral Homes, Buchanan, MI:

Diana Scanlon Obituary

Diana Ann Scanlon, age 54, of Buchanan, passed away on November 13, 2025. She was born on November 23, 1970, to the late Earl Scanlon Jr. and Patricia (George) Scanlon.

A graduate of Buchanan High School, Diana devoted her life to caring for others as a caregiver. She found joy in simple pleasures, especially spending time on the lake with family and friends. Fishing was one of her favorite pastimes, and she proudly caught her biggest fish this year. Diana’s greatest love was her family, especially her grandchildren, and she was her sister Patricia’s biggest supporter. Her warmth, laughter, and devotion will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her fiancé and best friend, Robert Lee Ingle; her daughter, Danielle (CJ Liska) Smith; her son, Aaron Worland; and her four beloved grandchildren. Diana is also survived by her siblings, Patricia Scanlon, Earl (Lisa) Scanlon III, David (Debbie) Scanlon, Penny (Greg) Nelson, and Donna (Greg) Walsh.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Patricia, son, Scott Smith Jr., and her brother, Dwayne Scanlon.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Palmer Funeral Home – Hoven Chapel, 414 E. Front St., Buchanan, MI. Friends may visit with the family beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the start of services. Graveside services and burial will immediately follow at Silverbrook Cemetery in Niles.

Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

Wright, Thomas Michael 1952-2025

editor Obituaries

Thomas Michael Wright
August 30, 1952  -  November 14, 2025

Published on website for Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Niles, MI

Thomas Michael Wright, a husband, dad, papa, brother and friend to many, left us on November 14, 2025, at the age of 73. Born on August 30, 1952, in Evergreen Park, Illinois, to the late John Wright Sr. and Jean (Rodgers) French, he brought joy and laughter to those around him throughout his life.

He was a graduate of Niles High School and earned his associate’s degree at Southwestern Michigan College. These foundations paved the way for a lifetime of accomplishments, including a proud service record in the Marine Corps. In civilian life, Tom dedicated over three decades of his career to Honeywell, where his strong work ethic and camaraderie with colleagues were greatly admired. His entrepreneurial spirit shone through as the owner of WrightWay Painting, where he combined his professional skills with personal interactions that often grew into longstanding friendships. Tom worked hard and lived in the moment. He was always ready with a joke, and just wanted everyone to have a good time.

Tom and Inga (Dittmar) Wright were married in Buchanan, Michigan, and surpassed the 50-year milestone of marriage. Tom was the source of wisdom, strength and a sense of humor for his three children, Derek Wright, Rochelle Reeves and Jessica (Tim) Hoover. His legacy will live on through his grandchildren, Seth Wright, Sydney Reeves, Brayden Hoover, and Ava Hoover, who will miss his playful spirit, boundless affection and the daily life lessons he shared. He was a constant source of love, guidance and support for his niece Tasha (Dittmar) Mokwa and enjoyed watching her and Ethan grow their family.

Tom loved to entertain at the pole barn, where family and friends could always be found for game days, holiday parties and spontaneous bonfires. While he had many hobbies and interests, fun times with family and friends were what Tom treasured most. Fridays were never complete without pizza, laughter and the usuals- Ben, Jim, Tim, and Ed, who was not just his brother but his closest friend.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers John Wright Jr. and Danny Wright. He is survived by his wife and children, and brothers Paul Wright and Ed (Pam) Wright. He will be missed by his wife, children, numerous nieces and nephews, and lifelong friends, some who have spent time at the pole barn sharing laughs.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 19, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm, at Brown Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, November 20th at 11:00am, with graveside services and military honors following at Silverbrook Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Tom’s name may be made to The Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8516.

Thomas Michael Wright lived a life marked by love, laughter, and service, and his loss is deeply felt by all who knew him. His stories, his warmth, and his unwavering commitment to his family and friends will be profoundly missed.

 

Lewis, Shannon Herman 1978-2024

editor Obituaries

Shannon Herman Lewis
abt 1978-July 26, 2024

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Palmer Funeral Homes-Hoven Chapel - Buchanan on Aug. 1, 2024.

Shannon Herman Lewis lost his battle with cancer on Friday, July 26, 2024.
He is survived by his wife, Jaimee (Day) Lewis; mother and step-father, Kathleen and Richard McGrath of Niles, MI; aunt, Rebecca LaVanway of Niles, MI; half-brother, James Ryan of Mishawaka, IN; daughter, Brittney Ann (Johnny) Morse and two granddaughters, Isabella and Kaylee of Harriman, TN; son, Jordan (Erika) Lewis of South Bend, IN; and two step-sons, Erin Travis and Myles Day of Niles, MI.
He is preceded in death by his father, Gerald Lewis; sister, Annette Kathleen Ryan; grandparents, Lydia and Herman Hafer.
Per Shannon's wishes, he will be cremated with no visitation or service and burial will be held at a later date in Silverbrook Cemetery in Niles, MI. Donations may be made in memory of Shannon to Center for the Homeless, 813 S. Michigan St., South Bend, IN 46601. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hoven Funeral Home, Buchanan, MI.

Cortez, Kerry Holmes 1950-2025

editor Obituaries

Kerry (Holmes) Cortez
July 24, 1950  -  April 2, 2025

Published on website for Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Niles, MI

Kerry (Holmes) Cortez, a beacon of compassion and dedication, passed away peacefully at her home in Niles, Michigan on April 2, 2025. Born on July 24, 1950, to the late George and Eileen (Knoll) Holmes, Kerry's life was a testament to the impact one person can have on the lives of many.

Kerry's lifelong career in nursing began as a Nurse’s Aide at Pawating Hospital in Niles, Michigan. From there, she went on to attend nursing school at Michael Reese Hospital in Chicago, Illinois where she earned a degree as a Registered Nurse and began her nursing career. Among Kerry’s specialties, she worked as an intensive care, trauma, surgical and emergency room nurse as well as supervisor and managerial positions in the health field. Along the way, she earned numerous certifications and degrees including a Master’s Degree. Over more than four decades she left a lasting legacy of service and care in the Chicagoland community. Relocating back to Niles after retirement, she ended up back at Lakeland Hospital (formerly) Pawating as a volunteer.

On August 13, 1977, Kerry married the love of her life, John Cortez, in a beautiful ceremony in Chicago. Their partnership was one of mutual respect, support, and shared values. Together they navigated the journey of life with grace and love.

Outside of her professional life, Kerry was a woman of diverse interests and talents. Beginning with ballet and piano lessons in her youth, she went on to enjoy gardening, cooking, Zumba classes, music, and theater. Oh, she also earned a Brown Belt in the Art of Karate. Kerry never stopped learning and growing, always seeking new ways to express her creativity and zest for life. Her beloved husband, John Cortez, and the multitude of friends, colleagues, and patients whose lives she touched celebrate Kerry’s enduring spirit.

She will be remembered as a loving and kind soul, whose passion for life and the wellbeing of others knew no bounds. Kerry’s legacy of love, kindness, and passionate care will remain a part of those who were fortunate enough to know here.

Those wishing to make a memorial donation in honor of Kerry have been asked to consider St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, Stjude.org/donatetoday.

A time of gathering, reflection and celebrating of Kerry and the impactful life she led will take place on April 26, 2025 at Brown Funeral Home from 1p.m -3 p.m. An additional gathering and luncheon will take place in the Chicagoland area May 3, 2025 from 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. at the White Eagle Event Center. 6839 N. Milwaukee Ave, Niles, Illinois.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services.

 

Gowen, Frances 1940-2025

editor Obituaries

Frances Gowen
Jan. 11, 1940-Nov. 5, 2025

Published on website for Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Niles, MI:

Frances Gowen, 85, passed away on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, in Niles, Michigan surrounded by her family.

Frances was born on January 11, 1940, in Cooter, Missouri to the late Olgie Lee Gowen and Clara Mae Pugh.

Along with her parents, Frances was preceded in death by her son, Marty Gowen and sister, Twila Gowen.

Left to cherish the memory of Frances is her son, Randy (Janet) Gowen; grandchildren, Steve (Krysta) Gowen and Jeff (Julie) Gowen; great grandchildren, Landon, Madelyn and (coming soon) Benjamin; her siblings Richard (Wanita) Gowen, Frelen Gowen, and Danny Gowen, and nieces and nephews.

Frances was a hard-working, loving mother who showed her strength to those she loved. She remained committed to doing things her way throughout her life and until her last breath. Her tenacity was evident to all, as she balanced raising her two sons and making ends meet to provide for them. Fran will be remembered for her resilience and determined nature; she truly embodied the definition of a tough woman who approached life's challenges with an unshakable resolve and instilled the same values of perseverance and strength in her children.

Frances' social nature was one of her most defining traits. Her ability to strike up a conversation with anyone, no matter where she was or who they were, was nothing short of remarkable. Not one to know a stranger, her warm and welcoming demeanor made her a beloved figure to her friends and family.

Above all, Frances' greatest joys were her two sons whom she adored with her whole heart. Never missing a chance to support them, she was a familiar face at their sporting events, cheering them on from the sidelines with enthusiasm that could rival any fan. She also had a soft spot for her two grandsons who she made many special memories with that they will always carry with them. Gatherings were never dull when she joined, and the family enjoyed laughter and activities that will continue to keep her cherished memory alive. She also enjoyed seeing her great-grandchildren and was excited to meet the newest addition.

Visitation for Frances will be on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, from 11:00am to 12:00pm with a Memorial Service to be held at 12:00pm at Brown Funeral Home, 521 East Main St. Niles, Michigan 49120. Burial will immediately follow at Silverbrook Cemetery, 1400 East Main St. Niles, Michigan 49120.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home.

Photos, condolences, and memories may be shared with Frances’ family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com