Friday October 11th tragic accident victims & the survivors

As many have heard by now, our community is suffering a tragic loss. 3 young individuals lost their lives, while 2 others survived with extensive serious injuries. Their names are:

I am teaming up with Mindy Draper Doberstein, with permission from Annie Laffew, to start this gofundme in hopes to raise enough money for 4 of the 5 families in their time of need. We will split the cost 4 ways between each family to ensure that each one is receiving help during this difficult time in their lives. If a gofundme does not work for you, or you wish to direct donations a different route, please reach out to one of us and we will direct you to the appropriate contacts. We will update this gofundme with Funeral Services when they become available and provide you with parent information so you may donate directly.

“Grief is a journey, and we are going to be here for you every step of the way”

Jowett Family Funeral Home and Cremations via Facebook Post

There will be a service held for both Elijah Tallent and Reno Leffew on Sunday October 20th at the Benzie Central High School Gym at 1:00 pm, with a visitation one hour prior. Obituaries will be posted at a later time. Arrangements by Jowett Family Funeral Home.

*Out of respect for the family, the names have been updated/removed*

This gofundme was set up on behalf of 4 of the 5 families to help cover medical bills as well as funeral expenses. Mindy and I will act as the bankers on behalf of the families and distribute the donations evenly between all 4 families, minus any fees from gofundme. Mackenzie Mysliwiec is also putting up donation jars at local stores for anyone who wishes to donate outside of the gofundme. These locations will be announced when they become available.

Elijah William Tallent, Of Thompsonville, age 19, today October 11, 2024, we remember Elijah who lost his life too soon. To speak of Elijah is to speak of a life lived with gusto and unyielding zest. He found adventure every day. His story is not one of sorrow but of celebration – a celebration of a life that was lived fully, fearlessly, and with a heart wide open to the wonders of the world.

He graduated from Benzie Central High School in 2022. While he was a student, he participated in various sports: cross country, football and wrestling. The comradery and smack talk during practices were a highlight.

Elijah goofy spirit led him in every endeavor, his energy was infectious. He never met a dog he didn’t like, the same could not be said for the “fudgies” that roamed about the county during the warmer months. He was always with friends and being outdoors. An avid outdoorsman, Elijah found solace and joy in hunting and fishing they were not just hobbies but a way of life that he passionately pursued. He cherished his time with his family whether he was riding the quads and dirt bikes until everything ran out of gas with mom and dad. Hanging out with his brother Zach and sister Anna. Elijah was a true connoisseur of snacks, with Flaming Hot Cheetos, chocolate milk, pot pies and crab legs being his favorites. He was the life of the party, bringing laughter and fun to any gathering.

Elijah taste in music was a reflection of his soul from old classic rock, too country and rap tunes often providing the soundtrack to his life’s adventures.

Elijah made an impression on many lives. He will be forever missed. Until we meet again.

He leaves behind his father Tory Tallent; brother Zach Tallent and sister Annalise Tallent, grandparents Gerry and Linda Soldenski, aunts and uncles Jim and Denise Soldenski, Judy and Jim Coulter, Wayne and Jocelyn Lechrone, Jerry and Heather Schultz, cousins Sam and Kate Soldenski, Jakob and Rachel Lechrone, Gabrielle Wiggins, Slade Schultz, Nichole and Dalton Tallent.

He was preceded in death by mother Jacqueline Soldenski, grandparents Jerry and Kitty Tallent and Bill and Jean Williams.

A Celebration of Elijah life will be Sunday, October 20th at 1:00 p.m. at Benzie Central High School Gymnasium. The Tallent family will welcome friends and family one hour prior to the service at the high school. David Taylor and Kristen Smeltzer will officiate the service. Arrangements with Jowett Family Funeral Home, Benzonia.

Reno Daniel Leffew, of Bear Lake, age 17, today October 11, 2024, we remember Reno who lost his life too soon.

He was passionate about his family, and his girlfriend Dani was everything. He carried that passion with him in many aspects of life, and always lived it to the fullest. Yet, he treasured moments that were spent in the company of his mother and father and a closeness he shared with his sisters. Reno’s love for Dani held at special place in his heart. He also enjoyed spending time with his little buddies Brad, Wesson, Micah, and Emma. He had the ability to make those around him feel valued, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Reno and Elijah were friends and shared many of the same hobbies. Reno took Lawson under his wing and treated him like a little brother.

Reno had a keen interest in anything with a motor. If he could drive it, ride it, push it, or pull it, he would play with it. He had an old soul, he loved classic rock music, and older country music, Chevy square body trucks and listening to his elders tell stories of the good ole days.

He had a way of turning the most mundane tasks into a good time. It didn’t matter where you were, or what the situation, Reno had a unique wit at the ready and a grin on his face. If you knew Reno, you knew the grin, laughter followed him like a shadow and everyone he’s ever graced is better for it.

In the grand comedy of life, Reno Leffew was a headliner, his laughter will echo in our hearts and his spirit will live on in the stories we share. So, here’s to Reno, a man who lived, laughed, and loved with all his heart. He was a true original, and he will be deeply missed.

Reno lives on in the hearts of his loving family. Parents Daniel and Annie Leffew, sisters Marissa and Alyviah, girlfriend Dani Fritz, grandparents Bill Chamberlain, Linda Tobias, Shelly Leffew and Christine Bellow, great grandma Diane Huntley. He is also survived by many aunts, uncle and cousins.

He was preceded in death by grandpa John Leffew, grandpa Reno, grandma Alice, great grandma Donna Light.

A Celebration of Reno’s life will be Sunday, October 20th at 1:00 p.m. at Benzie Central High School Gymnasium. The Leffew family will welcome friends and family one hour prior to the service at the high school. Arrangements with Jowett Family Funeral Home, Benzonia.