Kitchener Innes, 91, a lifelong farmer, business owner and veteran of the United States Army, died Friday, Oct. 16, 2026, at Long Term Care Aspire in Marlette, Michigan, with his family at his side.
Life rooted in farming and local business
Born Sept. 1, 1935, in Lamotte Township, Michigan, Mr. Innes carried the name "Kitchener" throughout a life shaped by agriculture and small‑town entrepreneurship. He married Louanne Tapson in September 1961 and spent his working years on the land, where driving tractors was among his lasting passions.
For more than half a century he owned and operated Coach Light Homes of Marlette, a business that anchored his involvement in the local economy. His community connections also included a period working at Marsh Funeral Chapel and membership in the Snover Heritage Church.
Service and personal pursuits
Mr. Innes served in the United States Army, a chapter of his life noted in the family notice. Beyond farming and business, he pursued other interests: he was a licensed pilot and at one time owned his own airplane, reflecting a broader curiosity and independence of spirit.
In later years he and his wife spent winters in Florida, a pattern common among older rural households who split the year between colder backyards and milder winter climates.
Family and funeral details
Mr. Innes is survived by his wife, Louanne; sons David Innes and Scott (Cathie) Innes; grandchildren Elizabeth (Matt) Oliver, Sara (Austin) Hillaker, Christopher Innes, Scott Innes (Sophie Sherman), Amanda Innes (Eli Jones) and Donald Innes; and great‑grandchildren Isla Hillaker, Allison Innes, Temperance Innes, Walker Innes and Elias Jones. He is also survived by a sister, June Wendorf. He was predeceased by his parents and a son, Paul Innes.
Arrangements were handled by Marsh Funeral Chapel in Marlette. The family received visitors at the chapel on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026, from 2 to 8 p.m., and again on Monday morning from 10 to 11 a.m. A funeral service followed on Monday at 11 a.m., with burial at Moshier Cemetery.
| Event | Date & Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Visitation (evening) | Oct. 18, 2026 — 2:00–8:00 p.m. | Marsh Funeral Chapel, Marlette |
| Visitation (morning) | Oct. 19, 2026 — 10:00–11:00 a.m. | Marsh Funeral Chapel, Marlette |
| Funeral service | Oct. 19, 2026 — 11:00 a.m. | Marsh Funeral Chapel, Marlette |
Community legacy
Those who knew Mr. Innes will remember a life lived in and for his community — farming fields, running a local business for decades, serving in the armed forces and taking part in the civic institutions of his town. The family has asked that friends may share condolences through the funeral home’s website.
- Name: Kitchener Innes
- Age: 91
- Places: Born Lamotte Township; lived and worked in Marlette; winters in Florida
Information in this notice was provided by Marsh Funeral Chapel, 2675 Main St., Marlette, MI 48453. Friends may reach the funeral home by phone at 989‑635‑3658 or by visiting www.marshfuneral.com for online condolences.
