Delores J. Choate

Delores J. Choate of Caro, age 88, passed away Friday, October 20, 2017 at the Tuscola County Medical Care Community with her loving family by her side. Delores was born January 31, 1929 at her family home in Flint, the daughter of the late Lee & Bessie (Malkin) Howey, and was raised by her mother and step-father, Jerome Kalar. She was united in marriage with William I. Choate on June 28, 1946 in Lapeer, and he preceded her in death in 2006. Delores was employed at the Caro Regional Center for twenty-six years, retiring in 1984. She was a member of the Bethel United Methodist Church and the State Employees Retirement Association. She was happiest when surrounded by family and always had time for coffee with friends. Delores will be remembered for her quick wit, beautiful singing voice and artistic talent. She was known by many for her cherry pies and pasties, and was proud to have walked the Mackinac Bridge many times. In her later years, she developed a deep love for animals, having many cats and dogs, and volunteered at the Tuscola County Animal Shelter. Delores also enjoyed shooting archery and playing Euchre. She leaves her family with abiding memories of her love, generosity and kindness. Left to cherish her memory are four children and their spouses, Jerome "Jerry" Choate of Clio, Roy David & Catherine Choate of Tulsa, Oklahoma, William "Bill" Choate of Davison, Nita & Chris Petiprin of Caro; twelve grandchildren and their spouses, Nathan & Liana Choate of Clio, Lynnette & Cory Sheldon of Harrison, Charles & Dace Hoye of Flint, Matthew Hoye of Flint, Roderick & Michelle Choate of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Heidi & Larry Evans of Sapulpa, Oklahoma, Peter & Laura Choate of Sequin, Washington, Kristti & Jason Bush of Niota, Tennessee, Farrah Church of Caro, Robin & Douglas Ostrander of Davison, Brian & Amy Petiprin of Unionville, Shayna & Thomas O'Connor of Caro; twenty-seven great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren with another expected shortly; two siblings, Betty Marlow of Gladwin, Sharon Kalar of Lapeer; many nieces, nephews, and her faithful dog, Bootsie. Delores was preceded in death by her special friend, Jay Westover; one grandson, Michael Hoye; and siblings, George and Donald Howey, Richard and Charlotte Kalar. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Tuscola County Medical Care Community for the loving care provided for their mother over the past three years. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 25, 2017 at the Ransford Collon Funeral Home in Caro with Pastor Penny Parkin officiating. The family will be present to receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the Choate Family Discretionary Fund, c/o Nita Petiprin, 205 West Sherman Street, Caro, MI 48723. Visitation Information Date: Tuesday, October 24, 2017 Time: 4:00 pm End Time: 8:00 pm Ransford Collon Funeral Home Address: 989-673-2175 | Map The family will be present to receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. Service Information Date: Wednesday, October 25, 2017 Time: 11:00 am Ransford Collon Funeral Home Address: 989-673-2175 | Map Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 25, 2017 at the Ransford Collon Funeral Home in Caro with Pastor Penny Parkin officiating.