Miles Elaine Herrguth

Miles Elaine Talbot Herrguth, 95, peacefully passed away on October 2, 2023, in the loving care of the Willows of East Lansing in Michigan. She was born on December 1, 1927, in Rives Township, Michigan.

Miles was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who cherished her family above all else. Her unwavering faith in the Lord guided her every step, and she lived a life rooted in Christian values. Miles had a refined sense of humor that brightened the lives of those around her, and she always presented herself with grace and poise. She had an amazing gift of giving, mostly to the ministries of the gospel and those in greatest need of help.

She is survived by her loving children: Diane Elaine Herrguth Slocum (Ken), Bobbie Catharine Herrguth Miller (Peter), James Frederick Herrguth, and Mary Herrguth Watkins Ozanich (Jim-deceased) (Gary-deceased). Miles was a cherished grandmother to John Brodberg (Taymonee), Barbara Brodberg McMullen (John), Jennifer Slocum LeGwin (Jay), Audra Losey Sweet (Richard), Naomi Losey McPherson (John), Makayla Miller Matt (Nathan), Catharine Herrguth Ackley (Chris), Ami Herrguth LaMont (Pat), James F. Herrguth Jr., Shannon Smith Horton (Brian), Kara Herrguth, Robert Miles Herrguth, Holly Herrguth Holmes (Curtis), James A. Watkins II, and Danielle Watkins Casselman (Jason). She also leaves behind a cherished legacy of great-grandchildren who brought immense joy to her life.

Miles was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Harriet Elizabeth Miles Talbot and Glen Ira Talbot, as well as her devoted spouse, Robert Dale Herrguth. She also mourned the loss of her precious grandchild, Julie Smith, and her dear siblings, Fern Rothfuss, Elizabeth Pratt, and Bessie Trafford. Additionally, she was preceded in death by her sons-in-law, James A. Watkins and Gary L. Ozanich.

Education played a significant role in Miles' life, and she graduated from Leslie High School in 1945. During her time there, she actively participated in the band, served as an illustrator for the yearbook, and showcased her talents in the senior play. Her dedication to her studies led her to excel in Home Economics, band, and English Language.

Throughout her life, Miles embraced a variety of professional endeavors. She began her career by working on the family farm alongside her parents. First out of school, she found her calling at Gilberts of Jackson, where she gracefully waited tables and created lasting memories for patrons. Later on, she found success as a door-to-door Fuller Brush salesperson, bringing quality products to countless homes. Miles then lent her skills to Ewings Grocery in Bath, where she served as a valued clerk. Her warm and friendly nature made her a beloved member of the community. However, it was her role as Co-Founder of Allied Disposal Company and senior operating officer for the first 25 years and CFO for 50 years that truly defined her professional journey. For an impressive span of 50 years, Miles dedicated her time and expertise to the company, leaving an indelible mark on her colleagues and the industry.

She was a founding member Psalm 91 Church, where she was the secretary for 20 years. Miles found solace and strength in her unwavering faith. She served in many positions of service throughout her years in Bath, Michigan. Miles was President, for a time, of the American Legion Auxiliary.

In her leisure time, Miles pursued a diverse range of hobbies that brought her immense joy. She was an avid bowler and golfed for many years, earning numerous trophies for her exceptional skill. Additionally, she possessed a remarkable talent for art, spending her entire life honing her skills as a gifted artist. Miles found delight in sports, sewing, baking, ceramics, puzzles, music, and dancing. She was part of a card playing club that met every week for years. However, her greatest source of happiness was spending quality time with her beloved family and friends, creating cherished memories that will be treasured for generations to come. She had a life well lived.

A funeral service will be held at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home (DeWitt Chapel), 205 E. Washington St., Friday, October 13 at 11 a.m. Visitation Thursday from 4-8 p.m. and Friday beginning at 10 a.m.

Burial will be at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Bath.

In honor of Miles' memory, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 2111 University Park Dr., Okemos, MI 48864 and Psalm 91 Church, PO Box 362, Bath, MI 48808. These were causes close to her heart, and your contribution will make a meaningful impact.

Miles Elaine Talbot Herrguth will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy of love, unwavering faith, and devotion to family and friends will continue to inspire and guide us all. May her soul find eternal peace in the embrace of the Lord.

Miles’ family would like to extend a special thank you to Peter Miller for the love and care he showed our mother and grandmother. Thank you also to the American Legion Auxiliary and to Psalm 91 Church.