In Memoriam
IN MEMORY OF…. OUR CLASSMATES AND FACULTY WHO HAVE PASSED AWAY.
“Only when you drink from the river of silence shall you indeed sing.
And when you have reached the mountain top, then you shall begin to climb.
And when the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance.”
~Kahlil Gibran, The Prophet~
In Memoriam Archives:
…..Scroll down to see Recent Obituaries…….
Petry, Kenneth “Ken” ( Taylor Center 1963)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Kenneth “Ken” Petry. Kenneth Dale Petry (June 17th, 1945 – March 10, 2025) Ken passed away at his behest on March 10th, 2025, after battling multiple illnesses and repeated brushes with death over the past few years. His most beloved family members surrounded him as he slipped into a deep slumber, before the sweet release of death. Ken was born in McKeesport, PA to Paul and Grace (Goodwin) Petry, as their third born son. Eventually the family relocated to Fort Thomas, KY, and ultimately to Taylor, MI in the 1950s. These moves gave Ken a particular accent that could showcase each location when speaking specific words. Ken graduated Taylor Center High School in 1963 and attended the University of Michigan for a couple years before deciding to leave. He met the love of his life, Donna, at a dance in Detroit. They wed on January 15th, 1966. Shortly thereafter, he was drafted to serve his country in the Army. He was stationed in Vietnam for a couple years, during some of the deadliest times for US Soldiers, the Tet Offensive. When he returned, Ken and Donna bought a simple house in Taylor where both would live for their remaining lives. They had two daughters during the 1970s whom they adored. Ken worked at Chrysler, in various roles and shifts, for 30 years. He graciously retired at the age of 50 to enjoy life with his children and grandchildren and his two favorite sports, golf and basketball. He was most proud of his involvement with the sports scene in the Taylor School District. Ken volunteered as an elementary school basketball coach, at Eureka Heights and the Sixth Grade Academy at Brake, for over 25 years. Ken assisted the Kennedy High School Basketball teams by keeping the score board and book for almost 20 years. Many players, referees, and coaches across the Downriver area will fondly remember his never-ending supply of candy at the score tables. After their oldest daughter lost her life to domestic violence, Ken and Donna dedicated their lives to raising three of her four children. He loved his wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren profoundly, as they did him. Ken was preceded in life by his parents; Donna, his wife; Cassandra, his oldest daughter; Joey, his grandson; and his three brothers, Richard, Wayne, and David. He is survived by his daughter, Alyssa Ogren (Kevin); son-in-law, Michael Weston; grandchildren, Markia Petry, Kenneth Dale Stewart, Chyanne Weston, and Desmond and Cedric Ogren; great grandchildren, Wyatt, Keegan, Maya, and Nick Jr; among many other family members, including in-laws, nieces, and nephews. There is no immediate funeral service. The family will announce a celebration of life to help others share stories of Ken after they have had personal time to grieve their loss.
Kozik, Richard (Kennedy Teacher, Coach, Class Advisor)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Richard “Dick” Kozki. It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Richard A Kozik on March 11, 2025 at the age of 85. A lifelong educator, coach, and passionate University of Michigan fan, he touched countless lives over his many years at Kennedy High School and throughout his life. He inspired students with his dedication and care. Richard was immensely proud of his role as a coach, where he instilled values of hard work, teamwork, and sportsmanship in his athletes. His coaching went far beyond the game, leaving a lasting impact on those who played under him. His love for U of M sports was well-known, and he could often be found cheering for the Wolverines, proudly wearing his maize and blue. As an avid golfer and bowler, he enjoyed many other sports as a player and spectator throughout his lifetime. He will be remembered for his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to his family, friends, students, and athletes. As a loving uncle of 4 generations of nieces and nephews, his greatest joy was being with his family and friends. Richard is preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Pauline, and siblings Josephine (Stan) Tyrna, Wanda (Jack) Nadzam, Pauline Mexicotte, and Irene (Leon) Pashnick. Rest in peace, Richard. Your legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew you. “GO BLUE” Memorial service: Saturday, March 22, 2025, 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM, 9800 Telegraph Rd, Taylor, MI 48180. Following the memorial gathering you are invited to a luncheon at the Democratic Club of Taylor located at 23400 Wick Rd, Taylor, MI 48180. In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to Gleaners Community Food Bank, St. Jude Hospital, or Paralyzed Veterans of America.
Hardin, Anthony (Taylor Center 1987)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Anthony Hardin. Hardin, Anthony Allen (Tony, ”Bonz”) – Of Annapolis, Maryland, formerly of Taylor, Michigan, age 55, passed away on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at his home residence. Funeral service will be held at Swartz Funeral Home, 1225 West Hill Road, Flint, Michigan 48507. Visitation will occur from 9a-12p, Wednesday March 5, 2025 with a service immediately to follow at 12 noon. The service will be officiated by his cousin Robert Henison. A military burial service will be held at 2pm at Great Lakes National Cemetery, 4200 Belford Rd, Holly, Michigan, 48442. Anthony was born in Wayne, Michigan on September 21, 1969, and was the son of Floyd and Glenda (Stacy) Hardin. Tony Graduated from Taylor Center High School, Class of 1987. He proudly served in the United States Army during Desert Storm and served in the Army National Guard reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant. He was a member of the VFW, American Legion, and most recently the Eagles Club. Tony was an amazing singer and an avid guitar player who enjoyed giving lessons to his students and playing before a crowd. He enjoyed golfing, boating, and spending time at the beach. His love for his hobbies were only eclipsed by his love for his work and his family. Tony worked as a Special Agent for the Department of Defense in the Counter Intelligence Agency through Fort Meade, Maryland. Tony is survived by his daughter Brittany (Brent) Studer, daughter Nicole (Steve) Hardin, stepson Colin Licavoli, dearest love Carmen Licavoli, granddaughters Laynlee and Emberlee Studer, Mother Glenda Hardin, Sister Helena (Scott) Hardin-Helka, several aunts and uncles, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Tony was preceded in death by his Father Floyd Hardin and Grandparents Helen Stacy, Berkley Stacy, Lenie Hardin, and Walter Hardin.
Ronan, David (Truman 1979)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of David Ronan. David C. Ronan, aged 63. Passed away, Monday, February 24, 2025 at his Taylor, Michigan home. He was born at Detroit, Michigan, Wednesday, June 21, 1961 to his late parents; Patrick J. & Catherine J. Ronan. Beloved husband of Sheila L. Ronan.Loving father to Michael Orsargos II (Katy Orsargos) and grandchildren Grayson Charles Orsargos who was named after his papa and Mikey III. He was survived by his brother Patrick Ronan (Tracy Ronan) Sister n law Shawna Nacazs brother n laws Roger Coe and David Hobdy. He had many nieces and nephews Mother n law Rosalie Hobdy and father in law Kenneth Hobdy. Anyone who knew him knew he had a rough exterior with an extremely soft heart. He Loved his wife, son, and grandsons more than anything in the world. He had a loud bark without a bite in his older age. He had a strong faith in Jesus and he knew for sure he was going to heaven!!!! Visitation and funeral service will take place, Thursday, February 27, 2025 from 4 p.m. until time of funeral at 6 p.m. at Metro City Church, 17760 Fort Street, Riverview, Michigan 48193. (734) 287-2366. Arrangements entrusted to The Fisher Funeral Home, 24501 Five Mile Road, Redford Twp., Michigan 48239 (313)535-3030. www.fisherfuneralhome.net
Sandifur, Randall “Randy” (Taylor Center 1996)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Randall Sandifur. Randall “Randy” Sandifur was born on February 2, 1978 in Dearborn, Michigan. Randy, who resided in Allen Park, Michigan, passed away on February 19, 2025 at the age of 47. Beloved husband of Kasey Sandifur for 24 years. Loving father of Olivia and Parker Sandifur. Dear son of Sandra Sandifur. Dearest brother of Cassandra (Nick) Brozek and Christopher (Danielle) Sandifur. Randy is survived by his sister-in-law Lindsay (Jesse) Smith and In-laws Terrie (Cameron) Priebe and Bob Janes. Best owner to his fur babies Otis, Lolli, and Milo. Randy was preceded in death by his father, Steven Sandifur. He will be missed by many family and friends. A memorial gathering will be held in his honor at the Lakes of Taylor on March 2, 2025 from 12-4 pm. Funeral arrangements entrusted to the Taylor Chapel of Voran Funeral Home, 23750 Goddard Road. (313) 291-1800. Please share memories or leave condolences on Randy’s guestbook on his tribute wall
Fater, Paul (Transportation dispatcher/driver and custodian)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Paul Fater. Paul Ervin Fater March 12, 1938 – February 19, 2025. Paul was born in Detroit, Michigan to Albert and Wavaline (Taylor) Fater. The family moved to Taylor, Michigan when he was four years old and he lived the rest of his life in Taylor excepting his military service. He was predeceased by his parents, his wife Mildred Lucille (Wilkins) Fater, their daughter Lisa, and his siblings Richard, Harold, Alvin, David, Ilene Hinton, Hazel Novitzke, and Wauneta Hathaway. He is survived by children Dennis (Vonnie), Julie, and Jeffrey (Laura); grandchildren Nathan (Kerri), Victoria, Lucas, Gabrielle (Anthony), Charlotte, and Bethany; his brother Warren, and many nieces and nephews. He was a longtime member of Allen Road Missionary Church, serving as a deacon, board member, and bus ministry leader. He and Lucille also served many years as church custodians. He loved working closely with the pastors and occasionally spoke on “Layman’s Sunday”. He enjoyed using a vacation week every year to attend Brown City Camp, going to the tabernacle services, seeing old friends, and visiting the Snack Shack. He served in the US Air Force for four years after high school. He was trained to operate the base radio and played music for the soldiers everywhere he was stationed. He really enjoyed working as a DJ and he wanted to make that his career, but was unable to find a job after his discharge. He was hired by Taylor Schools as a bus driver / janitor in 1965 and worked several positions over the years. He retired in 1993 after decades of driving and dispatching buses and maintaining various school buildings. He returned to bus driving in retirement, transporting seniors within the City of Dearborn for more than 15 years. In retirement he spent his time with Lucille, assisting her with whatever project she was working on from making pumpkin rolls to canning applesauce. He and Lucille enjoyed traveling, and spending as much time as possible with their grandchildren. He also kept in touch with the many friends he had made over the years, and he spent a lot of time each day praying for his family, friends, and coworkers. He truly lived out God’s commandment to love one another. Visitation Thursday, February 27, 2025 from 2:00-8:00 p.m. at the Taylor Chapel of Voran Funeral Home, 23750 Goddard Road. (313) 291-1800. Funeral service Friday 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. A live stream of the funeral service will be provided for the public. Interment Cadillac Memorial Gardens West. Please share memories and/or leave condolences on Paul’s guestbook on his tribute wall.
Wallace, Jack (Taylor Center 1959)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Jack Wallace. Jackie “Jack” Wallace was born on May 17, 1941 in Hayti, Missouri to Jesse and Virginia Wallace. Jack resided in Dearborn Heights, Michigan, he passed away on February 15, 2025 at the age of 83. Beloved husband of the late Sharon Wallace. Loving father of David Wallace, Michael (Patricia) Wallace and Daniel (Kerry) Wallace. Dearest grandfather of Catherine Wallace. He was preceded in death by his parents Jesse and Virginia Wallace and his brothers Richard Wallace and Larry Wallace. Jack will be deeply missed by family and friends. Visitation Tuesday, February 18, 2025 from 1:00-8:00 p.m. at the Dearborn Chapel of Voran Funeral Home, 23701 Ford Road. (313) 278-5100. Funeral service Wednesday 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment Our Lady of Hope Cemetery. Donations may be made to Angela Hospice. Please share memories or leave condolences on Jack’s guestbook on his tribute wall.
Havican, Jeffery (Kennedy 1988)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Jeffery Havican. Jeffery Scott Havican, age 54, a longtime resident of Southgate, Michigan, passed away surrounded by loved ones on Sunday, February 9, 2025 after a long illness. Born in Trenton, Michigan, Jeffery grew up in Taylor and attended Taylor schools, graduating in 1988. He began his career in the mid-1980s at his father’s die shop in Brownstown, Michigan. Following in his father’s footsteps, he later joined Ford Motor Company, where he was employed for 27 years and was proud of his work there. A lifelong Lions fan, he was always found cheering on his team. Jeffery loved hanging out with friends, had a strong love of animals and the outdoors, and enjoyed campfires. He was passionate about music and played the guitar and piano. From a young age, he wanted to be in a rock and roll band. He also liked working on projects around his home and was an avid gardener with a love for growing things. Jeffery especially enjoyed designing things with computer software. His love of metalworking in the workplace inspired him to buy a metalworking forge and anvil, with the desire to apply his knowledge of forging and making it into a hobby. He was also well-known on social media for his funny jokes and witty commentary, often leaving his followers in stitches with his quick wit and unexpected punchlines. He had a knack for finding humor in everyday situations and wasn’t afraid to share his unique perspective with the world. Jeffery is survived by his mother, Gwen Havican, his father, James L. Havican, and his brother, James M. Havican (Tena Havican), Tina Martin, and one nephew, Travis Vance. He also leaves behind his beloved dogs, Lady and Jackson, his ferret, Snickerdoodle, his turtle, and his koi fish. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory can be made to the Michigan Humane Society at www.michiganhumane.org.
Meredith Kohns, Janice (Taylor Center 1957)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Janice Meredith Kohns. Janice Laurene Kohns, Age 85 of Farmington Hills passed January 26, 2025. Beloved wife of the late Vernon. Loving mother of Carl (Calleen) Kohns, Tammy (Chris) Reynolds, Sheri Wild, Dawn (Michael) DiMaggio and the late Brian Kohns. Dearest grandmother of Shane, Rosie, Laurene, Shane, Ethan, Zach, Alicia, Amanda, Matthew, Pablo, Shelby and Jake. Great grandmother of Myon, Morgana, Kai, Chevo, Sophia, Lucien, Lunari, Ava, Ian, Eleanore, Diana, Silvia, Claire and Harrison. Preceded in death by her sister, Donna Jean Schmidt, and her parents, Effie and Laurene Meridith. Memorial Contributions are appreciated to First Baptist Church – Wyandotte.
Maudlin Carroll, Sharon (Taylor 1960)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Sharon Maudlin Carroll. Sharon Maudlin Carroll, Age 82 of Southgate passed November 29, 2024.
Beloved wife of the late Everett. Loving mother of Barbara (Don) LaCroix, Bob (Lori) Puckett, Shirley (Mike) Heaslip, Jena (Stu) Tuttle, Doug (Lana) Carroll, James (Stephanie) Carroll and the late Anna Oswald. Also survived by many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. Sharon was one of 8 Maudlin sisters. Memorial Gathering was 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm, Friday, December 6, 2024 at Molnar Funeral Homes – Nixon Chapel, 2544 Biddle Avenue Wyandotte, Michigan, United States. Memorial Service was 5:00 pm, Friday, December 6, 2024, Molnar Funeral Homes – Nixon Chapel. Officiant ~ Pastor Kenny Beasley
Cossins, Jordan (Truman 2008)
The Taylor Alumni Association extends condolences to the family and friends of Jordan Cossins. With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of Jordan Christopher Cossins, who left this world on February 2, 2025, at the age of 34. Born on February 25, 1990, Jordan’s journey through life was one of joy, laughter, and inspiration. A man of diverse interests, Jordan had a passion for video games, particularly those inspired by anime. He loved the thrill of WWE Wrestling and could often be found sharing laughter with friends and family. His unique sense of self made him a cherished presence in the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him. In a lifetime marked by humor and individuality, Jordan was a man who truly danced to the beat of his own drum. For ten years, he worked as a sales associate at Home Depot, where his infectious energy and dedication touched the lives of colleagues and customers alike. His playful spirit was evident as he brought festive cheer to others by dressing up as the Easter Bunny and Santa Claus, spreading joy and smiles wherever he went. In the midst of life’s busiest moments, Jordan found love and companionship with his devoted wife, Stacey Lee (Oliverson) Cossins. They were married on January 10, 2024, marking the beginning of a beautiful chapter in their lives together. Together with his daughter, Mackenzie Renee Cossins, they will continue to carry forward Jordan’s legacy, alongside many fond memories created as a family. Jordan is preceded in death by his grandparents, James and Janet Cossins, grandmother, Betty Brayman, and his cousin, Amy Jean Dupek. Rosie and Midnite crossed the Rainbow Bridge before him. His joyful spirit is carried forward by his loving wife, Stacey; their daughter, Mackenzie Renee; their 3 fur babies; his dedicated parents, John and Mary (Brayman) Cossins; and brother, James Cody Cossins. Also survived by his mother – in – law Janice Oliverson and his brother – in – law Brandon Oliverson. Jordan will be greatly missed by countless numbers of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Though the world’s stages will be dimmer without him, his family and friends can still hear his laughter echoing in every unconventionally funny memory. Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Jordan are invited to a visitation on Friday, February 7, from 10 AM until the service celebrating his life at 11 AM, officiated by Celebrant Denise Tucker at Michigan Memorial Funeral Home. The ceremony will be an opportunity to honor Jordan’s vibrant life, share stories, and find comfort in the joyful memories he leaves behind.