December 2020

Margaret Irene Castanon

Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side on Sunday, December 27, 2020. She was 73 years old. Margaret Irene Castillo was born on April 29, 1947, in Saginaw, Michigan, to the late Encarnacion and Rose (Unzueta) Castillo. She was proud 1965 graduate of St. Joseph High School. She married the love of her life, Joseph Ortega Castanon on November 2, 1968, at Sacred Heart Church in Saginaw; he survives her. She then embarked on a career that spanned 20 years with Meijer; retiring in 1999 as a service manager. Margaret was an avid reader, enjoyed shopping, and traveling with her husband Joe and family, especially to Las Vegas. (for more information click here).

Paul E. Hagen Jr.

Paul Edward Hagen Jr. passed away peacefully December 27, 2020. Paul was born January 26, 1933 in Saginaw, the son of the late Paul Sr. and Mae (Henning) Hagen. On May 12, 1956, Paul married Sally A. Hagen, who graciously greets him in heaven. Paul was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army and worked for many years at GM Grey Iron Foundry. He enjoyed history and genealogy, spending time with his family, gardening, listening to Polka music, and his cottage on Lake Huron. Paul was a longtime member of Holy Spirit Parish in Saginaw. Most important to Paul was his family, especially his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild. (for more information click here).

Jerrold J. Smith

Beloved husband, son, brother, uncle and friend passed away on Sunday, December 20, 2020 at the age of 51 years.

The son of the Janet (Pelkey) Smith and the late Timothy J. Smith was born on March 18, 1969 in Saginaw. Jerrold graduated from Swan Valley High School, the class of 1987. He married Tammy McManus on October 28, 1995; she survives him. Jerrold worked for Kelly Maintenance. He was a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church and Saginaw Field and Stream. He enjoyed hunting, snowmobiling and especially enjoyed time with friends and family. (for more information click here).

Bonnie J. Brilinski-Leonard

Loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and sister passed away on Friday, December 18, 2020. Age 73 years. Bonnie was born on September 21, 1947, to Melvin and Catherine (Bushey) Baker of Alpena, Michigan. She was the first child of six born to her parents and learned very quickly how to care for others and give of herself. Bonnie was raised in Alpena and a 1965 graduate of Alpena High School. After graduating from high school Bonnie attended the General Motors Institute and worked as a bookkeeper and office manager in Saginaw. Bonnie married Thomas Brilinski in Alpena on October 8, 1966. Tom predeceased her on December 13, 2004. On November 23, 2007, Bonnie married Donald Leonard in Saginaw, where the couple has resided. (for more information click here).

Edwin "Ed" C. Matzke

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother passed on December 7, 2020, at his home. Age 81 years.

Ed was born on July 11, 1939 to the late Edwin and Katheren (Strunk) Matzke in Saginaw. He was a proud graduate of Arthur Hill High School in 1957. Ed married the love of his life, Catherine “Kay” Naessens on October 17, 1959; she survives him. He worked in security at GM for 28 years. After retiring he worked part time at Standard Electric. Ed was a charter member of the Thomas Township Fire Department volunteering for 26 years. Ed was one of the original constables for Thomas Township and a founding member of the Thomas Township Police Deparment serving for 12 years. He was also a member of the Shields Men’s Club. Ed enjoyed hunting, bowling, softball, golf, going to the casino, and he loved going to his cabin in Oscoda. (for more information click here).

Patrick J. Pelkey

Patrick J. Pelkey, 53, of Traverse City, formerly of Saginaw, Michigan passed away on Wednesday, December 16, 2020 at Munson Medical Center. Pat was born on February 22, 1967 in Saginaw to Ken and Kay (Shields) Pelkey. He graduated from Swan Valley High School in 1985. In the early 1980’s Pat’s love for downhill skiing began at Bintz’s Apple Mountain. Shortly after moving to Traverse City, he met the love of his life and companion of over 25 years, Jennifer Case. Pat enjoyed sports and was an avid fan of the Detroit Lions and Tigers. (click here for more information)

Jane M. Symkowiak

Loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great grandmother passed away Monday, December 7, 2020 at Hoyt Nursing and Rehab Center. Age 99 years. Daughter of the late Leonard and Ethel (Corbett) Lagan, Jane was born November 10, 1921 in Saginaw, Michigan. She was married to Clarence V. Symkowiak on September 22, 1945. He predeceased her August 14, 1982. Jane was employed at the Saginaw Township School System in Food Service. She was a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Jane was a Michigan State Fan and enjoyed spending winters in Bonita Springs, Florida. (for more information click here).