Alma M. Gladding's Obituary
Big Rapids Alma M. Gladding, 93, of Big Rapids, passed away Saturday, September 20, 2008, at Spectrum Health Skilled Nursing Facility in Reed City, surrounded by her loving family. She was born October 23, 1914, in Greenville, the daughter of William E. and Emma E (Johnson) Petersen, and graduated from Sheridan High School in 1932. On November 3, 1934, she married Ferd Gladding, and they moved to Big Rapids in 1955, where she had lived since. For many years, Alma worked for Wolverine World Wide in Greenville. She then was a baker for Ferris State College from 1955 until retiring in 1976. Family came first for Alma, and she was always available to listen, help and comfort. Aunt Al especially enjoyed Christmas and birthday celebrations. She loved animals, especially Boston Bull Terriers. Her husband Ferd preceded her in death on July 20, 1978. Surviving are her sister, Elinor Griffith Chipman of Reed City; special nieces and nephews, Carolyn (Jim) Chipman, Deborah Griffith, Deborah Chipman, Robert (Kristy) Chipman, Robert Griffith, Rachael Griffith, Jon, Kelli, Alex, and Staci Kitelinger, Sean, Jim, Ryan, and Sarah Chipman; special friends Ione Marek, Pat and Ron Millis; and many other nieces and nephews. Alma was also preceded in death by her nephew Roger Griffith on December 21, 2007, her great-great-niece Rebecca Chipman in 1981, and brothers-in-law Robert Griffith in 1955 and James L. Chipman in 1992. Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Monday, September 29, 2008, at the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids, with Rev. Jon Fleming officiating. Burial will be in the East Montcalm Cemetery near Greenville. Memorial contributions for the Activities Department at the Spectrum Health Reed City Skilled Nursing Facility, the United Church of Big Rapids, or the Therapy Dog International Program may be left at the funeral home, where Almas family will greet friends after 10:00 a.m. on Monday.
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