WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Bernard Ray Shutes Sr., age 91, of Three Rivers, passed away on Thursday, January 12, 2012 at the Heartland Health Care Center. He was born on May 8, 1920 in Three Rivers, MI. the son of Ray B. and Lulu (Schug) Shutes.
Mr. Shutes Graduated from Three Rivers High School in 1938. He served his country during WWII in the U.S. Army as a corporal medic in the 8th Air Force based in England. Upon returning from the war he married Mrs. Frances (Butler) Shutes on Nov. 21, 1943. Bernie was employed at Docks Foundry for 18 years and eventually retired from Johnson Corp in 1983.
For many years Bernie and Francis enjoyed square dancing, spending winters in “Holiday Lake” Florida, after retirement. Bernie would often entertain his family by playing the piano at night by ear. He was a member of the American Legion Hice-Shutes Post #170 and a blood donor for many years giving over 14 gallons plus. He also enjoyed hand feeding his squirrels at his picnic table.
Mr. Shutes was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Francis in 2010; one sister, Lois (Shutes) Harsh, two brothers, Vaugh and Arden Shutes; and one granddaughter, Jenifer Lea Shutes.
He leaves to cherish his loving memory, children, Bernard “Skip” (Kathy) Shutes Jr., of Three Rivers, Margaret (Tim) O’Connell, of Portage, MI., Sharon (Garry) Seals, of Hartselle, AL., and Gary Shutes, of Three Rivers; grandchildren, Gregory (Mindy) Shutes, Tammy (Ricky) Barber, Todd (Debbie) Roberts, Deborah Shutes, Becky (Mike) Ballard, Sarah Shutes, Mary Frances Shutes, Jason Shutes, Joe O’Connell and Michelle O’Connell. Great-grandchildren, Andrew, Benjamin, Jacob and Matthew Ballard, Anna, Olivia, and Russell Shutes, Cody, Colton, and Aubrey Shutes; great-great-grandchildren, Nathan (Sarah) Shutes, Spencer Lee Barber and Delaney Jade Barber. Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 14, 2012 at the Hohner Funeral Home.
Interment will be held in Riverside Cemetery, with Military Honors under the auspices of the American Legion Hice-Shutes Post #170.
Memorials may be donated to the Alzheimer’s Association or the Charity of One’s choice.
