Milli Stolpe
Mildred Burnice “Milli” Stolpe, age 98, of Union City passed away peacefully on Monday, Sept. 15, 2025, at Van Ayer Manor Nursing Home in Martin.
White-Ranson Funeral Home was in charge of cremation services.
Born on April 18, 1927, in Viola, Kan., Milli grew up on a farm as the only girl among four older brothers. Her favorite chore was milking cows, and those early years on the farm helped shape the strong, independent woman she became.
She spent much of her adult life in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., where she shared a loving home on the banks of the St. Marys River with her husband, Frank Xavier Stolpe, who preceded her in death. Together, they enjoyed watching the freighters pass by their riverside home. Frank and Milli were also “snowbirds,” spending winters in Tucson, Ariz., where they built a second home to escape the harsh Michigan winters. They especially loved it because her brother, Harry, and his wife, Doris, joined them at their retirement community.
During World War II, Milli proudly served her country on the home front as a riveter — part of the generation of hardworking women who stepped into vital roles during a time of great need. Her strength, independence and determination were evident even then, and continued to define her throughout her life.
She was active in her community and enjoyed bowling in her local league in “the Soo,” where she made many dear friends.
She also had a lifelong love of animals and was especially devoted to her cats — Lucky, Buddy, Bootsie and Snoopy — who, over the years, were her constant companions.
Later in life, Milli moved to Union City to be closer to her daughter, Ann, and son-in-law, Mike, both of whom preceded her in death. Family meant everything to her, and that love remained the center of her life.
She is survived by her granddaughter, Mandy Hinson (Brent); and great-grandson, Xavier of Union City, as well as her grandson, Mike Morris (Sarah); and great-grandchildren, Teagan and Kenzie, all of Ohio.
Her most cherished roles were those of “Grandma” and “Gigi.” She was especially proud to bake Grandma’s Famous Chocolate Cake for her great-grandson, Xavier, every birthday — and really, any time he asked.
Milli will be remembered for her beautiful smile, her quick wit, her deep love for family, and her unwavering independence. Her legacy of love, resilience and kindness will live on in all who knew her.
A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Union City Department of Animal Control.
The Messenger 9.20.25