About us

	Art L. Covell I was born in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. At an early age, my family moved to New Jersey where I received my education. I married my wife, Mary, in 1940 and we have three children, two sons and one daughter. My calling to the ministry necessitated my moving to Michigan where I received my formal training and ordination. Upon my retirement from Pastoral Ministry in 1984 I have been associated in the funeral business in various capacities.
	Mary E. Covell I was born, raised and educated in Trenton, New Jersey. In 1940 I married my husband Arthur and we have three children. Our family moved to Michigan in 1963 and retired from Lansing to Traverse City in 1984 where we made our home and work at Covell – Smith Funeral Home. I enjoy my church, traveling, reading and entertaining friends.
	Amanda M. Kirt Growing up in Traverse City, I enjoyed sailing, water skiing, snow skiing and participating in many Cherry Festival parades and events. I attended and graduated from Traverse City Schools. My interest in Funeral Service was piqued at an early age. After doing undergraduate study at Northwestern Michigan College, I pursued a career in Funeral Service and earned my degree at the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. In March of 2001, I was offered an opportunity to return home and manage Covell Funeral Homes Inc. My hobbies include bicycling, hiking and reading.
	Ron Kullgren I was born in Detroit, MI and moved to Cincinnati, Ohio as a child. Upon graduation from Reading High School in Cincinnati, I attended Northwestern Michigan College for an undergraduate degree and received my Mortuary Science degree from the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. My employment with Covell Funeral Homes spans from 1988 to the present time. In my spare time I enjoy restoring antique automobiles, shooting trap and skeet, carpentry and spending time with my children and grandchildren.
	Jack Weston Born and raised in the Detroit area, I obtained my Bachelor of Science degree from Western Michigan University. Discovering a personal desire to help others in need and serving mankind, I entered Wayne State University where I received my Mortuary Science Diploma. I relocated to Gaylord, Michigan where I served my apprenticeship, and then stayed on to serve in the capacity of staff Funeral Director for 26 years at the Nelson Funeral Home. I am new to the Traverse City area and joined the Covell Funeral Home staff in January 2003. Other interests of mine include attending plays and concerts, music, reading woodworking, refinishing, home remodeling, walking and exercising.
	Betty L. Sutton I was born and raised in Bay City. After high school, I studied voice, dancing and drama with the Detroit Opera School. I sang professionally throughout Michigan and Ohio. A resident of Traverse City for 45 years, I have been employed by the Covell Funeral Homes for more than 20 years. A long time church member, I enjoy singing in the choir and traveling.
	Diane Ankerman I was born and raised on the East Coast, in Connecticut. After graduating from High School I attended Hartford College for Women. In 1977, I moved to Ohio, where I met and married my husband and continued my education. We moved to Traverse City, with our son, in 1993. I am employed in the capacity of Administrative Assistant for Covell Funeral Homes. My interests include spending time with my family, cooking, reading, swimming and walking the dog.
	Maureen Reyhl I was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and raised in Plymouth, Michigan. My college studies included theology, psychology, business and law enforcement. My family and I moved to the Traverse City area in 1995, where we have enjoyed raising our children and grandchildren. I am employed as the Family Services Counselor with Covell Funeral Homes, where I specialize in Aftercare services and Pre-arrangements. I enjoy working with and helping people. In my spare time, I enjoy theology and research, stained glass, fly-tying (fly fishing), my family and my wonderful grandchildren.
	Jenny L. Bruyette I grew up in Grand Ledge, Michigan, and raised my own family in Eaton Rapids, Michigan. My college studies included Commercial Art, Gerontology, Human Services and Tourism. This lead to over 18 years driving highway motor coaches all across North America, and many years of owning a sign painting and tradeshow display business. I have family involved with Funeral Services, which has always held a sincere interest with me. I am employed with Covell Funeral Home as an Assistant to the Directors. In my leisure time, I enjoy camping, reading, cross country skiing, crafting, home improvement and being a Grandma.

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