WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Warren Lee Maxwell, age 82, a lifelong resident of the Burr Oak and Sturgis area, passed away Wednesday, May 16, 2012, in the Hospice Suite at Birch Adult Foster Care Home in Leonidas.
He was born Oct. 18, 1929, in Burr Oak, a son of the late Harry and Myrtle (Brenneman) Maxwell.
Warren graduated from Sturgis High School with the class of 1947. He had farmed for many years and retired from Ross Laboratories after 26 years of employment.
He was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose #3000 since 1977, the St. Joseph County Conservation and Sportsman Club, and was very active in the United Kennel Club. He was an expert handler, breeder and trainer of hunting dogs and was known across the country for his training skills. He attended many dog trials, where his dogs excelled in the competitions.
Warren also enjoyed dancing in his younger years and was an avid gardener.
Surviving are three daughters, Sandy (Peter) Anderson of Dublin, Ohio, Susan (Richard) Willis of White Pigeon, and Sheila (Tracy) Webb of Sturgis; a son, Raymond Maxwell of Sturgis; six grandchildren, Austin (Holly) Webb, Dillon Webb, Laura Webb, Jacob Webb, Leslie Willis and Chris (Karen) Willis; great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews; a special companion for 32 years, Evelyn Bowman of Sturgis and her daughters, Sharon (Brad) Miller and Pam Bowman; and her grandchildren, Jamie, Amy, Ryan, Adam, Max and Evan. He was formerly married to Reta (Finnerman) Keith.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Cindy Richards, on Aug. 10, 1985; two sisters, Audrey Miller and Cleo Baumgardener; and a brother, Virgil Maxwell.
According to his wishes, cremation has taken place. The family will receive friends and relatives from 1-3:45 p.m. Saturday, with services to follow at 4 p.m. at Hackman Family Funeral Home — Rosenberg Chapel, 807 E. Chicago Road, Sturgis.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggest memorial donations be directed to the Three Rivers Hospice, 222 S. Main St., Three Rivers, MI 49093 or the Birch Adult Foster Care Home, 30895 King Road, Leonidas, MI 49066. Envelopes are available at the funeral home.
His obituary is also at www.hackmanfamilyfunerahome.com, where personal messages of support may be left for the family.
