Tributes

It is with profound sadness that the family of Brenda Sue Vowels, 82, of Kalkaska, announce that she passed away on September 23, 2025 with her children at her side. She was born on December 6, 1942 in Wayne City, Illinois to Lester Dale “Pat” & Augusta Mae Crocker. Brenda married Stanley G. Waggoner on January 23, 1961 in Bridgeport, Illinois. Over a 30 year period they raised their three children (Danielle 1961, Gordon 1964, and Sara 1969). Residing in Bridgeport and Mattoon, Illinois until relocating to Kalkaska, Michigan in 1976. Brenda is preceded in death by her brothers, Charles (Chuck) Crocker, Olan (Bub) Crocker, and Lavern Crocker. Brenda is survived by her husband James (Jim) D. Vowels of Kalkaska, her brother Dale Crocker of Wayne City, Illinois, her children: Danielle (Peter) Backes of North Mankato, Minnesota, S. Gordon Waggoner II of Traverse City, Sara (Joe) Waterman of Rapid City, and her step-children Amanda Vowels of South Glens Falls, New York and James W. (J.W.) Vowels of Kalkaska, along with her many precious grandchildren & great grandchildren. Throughout Brenda’s life, she was a Girl & Boy Scout leader for her children, a volunteer for multiple organizations, waitress and past owner of Carefree Cove on Manistee Lake. She loved to read, especially her Louis L’Amour collection, along with walking with her many Schnauzers. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Eves Club, Kalkaska Academia Club, 100+ Women Who Care and the Red Hat Society. Brenda had a passion for charities, devoting most of her time to the local K.A.I.R. Chapter. The family would like to extend a grateful Thank You to the entire staff of French Manor Terra and Hospice of Traverse City for their care and support shown to our mom over these last fifteen months. Brenda will be cremated and have a funeral and burial on a family plot in Wayne City, Illinois. The family will hold a Celebration of Life at Timber Ridge Resort in Traverse City on October 18, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. The family asks in lieu of flowers contributions in the name of Brenda Vowels be made to Kalkaska County Library, Kalkaska Animal Shelter or simply plant a flower in her honor. Arrangements were made by Wolfe-O'Neill Funeral Home our family serving yours.

Tributes

Brenda S. Vowels

December 6, 1942 - September 23, 2025