Obituaries

Charles Haddon Williams, Jr,

Charles was born June 29, 1932 in Washington, D.C., the only child of Charles Haddon Williams and Kathryne Passailaigue Williams.  He was raised in Washington and earned a B.S. from the University of Maryland and a PhD in Biochemistry from Duke University.  While doing post-doctoral work in Sheffield, UK, he met his wife of 61 years, Angela Murison (Small) Williams.  Together they settled in Ann Arbor, MI where Charles worked for the V.A. doing basic research as well as serving as a Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Michigan.  They raised two sons, Stephen Charles Williams and Patrick Timothy Williams.

Charles was devoted to his work on enzymes that contain vitamin B2 and to Science in general.  He studied enzymes containing versions of vitamin B2 that are involved with crucial functions in maintaining protein structure, providing reducing equivalents for the production of the bases in DNA, and for the function of mitochondria in cells. He collaborated with scientists from England, Germany, and Italy.  He and Angela, frequently accompanied by Stephen and Patrick, made many trips to these countries, especially the UK, and they maintained deep ties to family and friends there.

Gerald "Jake" Milliken, Sr.

of Chelsea, Michigan, age 88, passed away Wednesday, November 15, 2023. He was born March 17, 1935, in Hamburg, Michigan, the son of Edwin Bell and Livnia Mae (Brown) Milliken.

Jake attended Ann Arbor High School. He quit to go to work to help his family. Jake was a traditional plasterer, working for contractors, finishing as a field superintendent for Renaissance Interiors. Jake retired in 2000, and went to work for his son, Jerry, until he was 82. He enjoyed hunting and fishing for most of his life. Jake was a good and dependable man who would always help his family and who always followed through.

Jill Yvonne Dunlap

Of Grand Haven, MI, formerly of Chelsea. Age 80, passed away in her sleep on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at her home in Grand Haven. She was born March 1, 1943 in Stockbridge, MI the daughter of John L “Jack” & Virgina (Haddox) Barkley.

Jill graduated from Chelsea High School in 1961. She was a medical assistant working on the Chelsea Hospital campus and later at the Zeeland Hospital. Jill was an avid reader, especially suspense and mysteries; and enjoyed sewing and cross stitching. She was an excellent cook and had a recipe for everything. Jill was the most caring mom and grandmother. She loved fiercely and poured her heart into her family.

Jeanette "Jan" Van Houten

of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Carleton, Michigan, Age 91, passed away Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at her home in the Chelsea Retirement Community (UMRC).