When reflecting on the overflowing life of Lucille Read, it is easy to see both her unyielding strength and her unwavering love for her family. She poured her heart and soul into serving her community, and she was a shining example of perseverance and faith. Nothing brought Lucy greater joy than spending time with her loved ones, no matter how brief or simple the moments. Her primary focus in life was building deep and personal relationships with those around her. Dearly missed, Lucy will be forever loved by all who knew her. 

The 1930s are remembered as a time of great struggle for the United States and much of the world. The Great Depression had a stranglehold on the country, and many families strove to find a way to thrive in their time of need as tensions surrounding WWII were beginning to reach a boiling point. During these dark years, however, there was a ray of light for Frederick and Cora (Van Sluyters) Read of Grand Rapids, Michigan, as they awaited the arrival of their baby. On June 7, 1937, they welcomed their daughter, Lucille Anne, into the world. 

Growing up, Lucy was a typical young girl of her generation in many ways. She was raised in the family home and attended local schools, including Sibley Elementary School, Stocking Elementary School, and Oakview Elementary School. At the age of 10, Lucy suffered a devastating blow with the loss of her mother. She lived in Cedar Springs, Michigan, for several years, attending schools there, before her family settled back down in Grand Rapids. Lucy graduated with honors from Union High School in 1955, eager to see what her future had in store. 

Throughout her life, Lucy was never afraid to work hard in order to provide for herself. She entered the workforce with her first job as a bookkeeper at J.A. White Distributing Co. At the same time, Lucy worked for Cook Coffee Company. She later stepped into a career at Aetna Insurance Company, where she would spend the next 30 years working in the human resources department. After finishing her work at Aetna, Lucy worked for the Michigan Department of Transportation until she retired. 

Of all the things Lucy loved in life, she treasured her family and friends above all else. She was a part of a very large family, which included her grandparents, her aunts and uncles, and her cousins. Lucy was very close with her cousins. After her father passed away in 1970, she moved from the family home and settled down in her Walters apartment on East Fulton Street. Lucy and her dear friend, Evelyn Martindale, traveled the world. They visited many national parks in the United States and Canada, and they especially enjoyed traveling in Southeast Asia. Following her car accident, Lucy leaned on the support of her friends and family. Her close friend, Sandra Koeman, happily helped care for her. Lucy considered herself blessed to be surrounded by so many loved ones. 

Never one to sit still for long, Lucy pursued many hobbies to stay busy in her free time. She was very active in the West Michigan Genealogy Society, which allowed her to research her family history and trace her roots back to the 1400s. Lucy had a passion for history, and she was especially interested in the Civil War era. She loved music and sang in the church choir for many years, and she enjoyed spending time in the great outdoors. Lucy looked forward to meeting twice a year with her friends from the Pilgrimage Movement of the United Church at Kettunen Center in Tustin, Michigan. 

Lucy found her church home at Wallin Congregational Church. She served in many roles in her church, including on the missionary board and as a trustee, a diaconate, a church school leader, and a youth leader. Lucy served for many years on the Board of Trustees and then as President for Pilgrim Manor Retirement Community. She spent 20 years on the Allocations and Review Committee of the United Way West Michigan. Lucy was also a liaison for D.A. Blodgett Service for the Families and Children, and she was a dedicated member of Rockford #215 order of the Eastern Star. 

As family members and friends can certainly agree, Lucille Read truly understood the secret to a life well lived. She never took a single moment for granted, and she was a constant source of strength, even in the most difficult of times. Lucy was a friend to many and beloved by all she met. Her serving heart allowed her to impact the lives of countless others, and she was always willing to go above and beyond to serve those around her. Though she will be deeply missed, Lucy leaves behind a priceless legacy that her loved ones will be proud to carry on in her footsteps. 

Ms. Lucille (Lucy) Anne Read, aged 87, passed through the door to eternal life on November 26, 2024. She was born on June 7, 1937 to Fredrick Joseph Read and Cora Van Sluyters Read. Celebrating her life is her dear friend, Sandra Koeman, as well as many other cousins and friends. 

Lucille came from a large family including her grandmother, Lucy Gothiea Read, seven aunts and uncles, great aunts and great uncles, and five of her generation. She is survived today by two cousins, Mary Pyman Abouzeid and Ann Pyman Maslonka, and their families as well as five second cousins and their families. 

Ms. Read was employed by the Aetna Life Insurance Company for over thirty years. She then went on to work for the Michigan Department of Transportation until she retired. 

As a life-long member of Wallin Congregational Church, she served in many ways including as a moderator, a trustee, a diaconate, on the missionary board, as a church school teacher, and youth leader. Her love for music was evidenced in her singing in choir for many years. Lucille also served as a chancel choir director. She enjoyed nature and her many friends from the Pilgrimage Movement of the United Church, meeting twice yearly in retreats at Kettunen Center in Tustin, Michigan. 

Over her many years Lucille served on the Board of Trustees for Pilgrim Manor Retirement Community and also as its President. For over twenty years, she was on the Allocations and Review Committee of the United Way of West Michigan, and served as a liaison for D.A. Blodgett Service for the Families and Children. She was a member of Rockford #215 order of the Eastern Star. 

As valued member of the West Michigan Genealogical Church Society, she leaves the legacy of family history to her extended family. 

Lucille’s funeral service will be held on Saturday December 7, 2024 at 11:00 AM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home, Alt and Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Drive NW, Grand Rapids MI, 49504. Lucille’s friends may meet for a time to visit at 10:00 am on the day of the funeral. Memorial contributions in Lucille’s honor may be directed to West Michigan Genealogical Society. To sign her guest book, leave a message, or post a picture please visit www.heritagelifestory.com

 

Member of the Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War, 1861 – 1865

from August 14, 2001 to 2023 

 

----------MEMORIES----------

Wenda Fore
November 30, 2024

Lucy Read was a dedicated member of the Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War, 1861-1865 since joining in 2001. She served for many years as our treasurer and did Civil War research for her veterans. I remember the times that we met at her church to work on research and putting items in the organization scrapbook. She was always cheerful and welcoming. I know that she will be dearly missed by all of the many who worked with her over the years. She leaves pleasant memories with us. 
Wenda Fore, Eva Gray Tent 2, DUVCW 
Grand Rapids, MI

Sowa Wojciakowski, Claudia 2/20/1950 - 1/25/2023 Trufant Claudia Jean Sowa-Wojciakowski, aged 72, of Trufant, passed away Wednesday, January 25, 2023. She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Jean Sowa and her daughter-in-law, Chelsa Wojciakowski. Claudia will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 21 years, Joseph Wojciakowski; stepson, Matthew Wojciakowski; the Sowa and Wojciakowski families, and many friends.

 

Claudia graduated high school in 1968 from Marywood Academy and was promptly accepted into Michigan State University where she earned a bachelor's degree in Math and Education; a master's degree in Counseling; and a PhD from the College of Education. Her postdoctoral studies led her to a career at the University of Virginia where she became an associate professor and program director for the Counseling Education Program. After a successful career at UVA, she moved back to Michigan to accept a position at Grand Valley State University where she was given the opportunity to develop a master's program for school counselors. She also created the College of Education's Community Outreach Office, which is now the Center for Educational Partnerships. She worked on writing several grants and programs for GVSU and was proud of the work her team accomplished. Claudia received several awards and certificates throughout her time at GVSU, including her prestigious title of Professor Emerita.

 

In addition to her educational and career pursuits, Claudia was honored to be an active member of the Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War and the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution where she served as an officer.

 

In 2001, Claudia married the love of her life, Joe. Together, they shared a beautiful life in Trufant. Claudia spent many summers making lifelong memories at Big Star and Muskellunge Lake. She was a wonderful chef and an average angler. She was a massive Michigan State sports fan and especially enjoyed March Madness each year. Above all else, she loved spending time and laughing with close friends and family. Claudia impacted the lives of so many people and was authentically and wholeheartedly there for those she loved. Claudia's kindness and passion for life will be missed by all but we will carry her memory with us always.

 

A private interment will be held at Graceland Memorial Park Cemetery. To honor Claudia's memory, we are holding a celebration of life service on March 4, 2023, from 2-4pm at the Wildflower Schoolhouse (239 1st St. Trufant, MI 49347). We invite anyone who knew Claudia to attend and remember her wonderful life.

 

 

Member of the Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War, 1861 – 1865

since June 8, 1975

Judith K. Judith Kay (Deitz) Corrigan, world's greatest grandmother, 82, of Newaygo, passed away on January 23, 2022, after repeatedly defying the odds battling cancer. She was born on August 29, 1939, to Frederick and Netah (Beals) Deitz in Muskegon, Michigan, one of seven children. On October 4, 1958, she married Donald Corrigan in Newaygo, Michigan, where they raised four children.

 

It was quite the love story. She was known first for her love of family and her extreme dedication to her grandchildren. Additionally, she was passionate regarding genealogy and was a member of the Colonial Dames, Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Baronial Order of Magna Charta. She was dedicated to supporting veterans including organizing the donation of thousands of pairs of shoes to veterans, traveling the world "ghost bustin," including many trips with her sister Marilyn doing genealogy, and arranging countless trips to Vegas with countless family members. She diligently worked and went on adventures with her friend Jonie Eaton and many, many genealogy adventures with Clara Vickers. The breakfast crew and shenanigans of Fred, Terri, Lila, and Chuck brought her great joy.

 

Her fierceness and ability to get things done was not slowed down during her multi-year battle with cancer and her family rejoices with her rejoining her husband of 61 years and son Tommy. We know we will all be together again someday. She was proceeded in death by her husband Don, her son Thomas Michael, her parents, sisters Evelyn Mae Church Cole, Arloa Beth Church Loney, Marilyn Joan Deitz Dietz, brothers Jack Arden Church, Calvin Fredrich Deitz, and Larry Bruce Deitz.

 

She was "loved to pieces" and is survived by children Tim (Annette) Corrigan of Grant, Michigan, Debbie (Mark) Zimmer of Grant, Michigan, and Patricia (Aaron) Sundman of Rockford, Michigan, sister-in-law, Kathryn (Russ) Corso of Westlake, Ohio, and over 100 nieces and nephews. Her legacy will live on in her Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren: Skye (Luke) Vawter, Carey Johnston, Brooke Zimmer, Cole Zimmer, Dr. Markie Zimmer, Claire Sundman, Samuel Sundman, Amelia Sundman and Jazmine, Kamden, Kolten, Adrian, and Remington. The family's genealogy is in safe hands with her nephew Randy.

 

Per Judy's wishes, a private burial will take place in the Newaygo Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider doing something extra special in Judy's memory for your favorite veteran.

 

 

Member of the Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War, 1861 – 1865

since June 10, 2003

 

Marilyn was a proud survivor of breast cancer for over 40 years. In the 60's and 70's, she was passionate about Right to Life, even traveling to Washington D.C. to participate in a Right to Life March. Marilyn was a long time, active parishioner at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church for over 60 years. She helped push for and help raise funding for the building of the New Way Center School in Newaygo.

 

She was passionate about genealogy with her sister Judy for the past 33 years, traveling with family members to multiple states to document the family history, and together they were members of DAR, Colonial Dames and Magna Carta Dames.

 

In her free time, Marilyn loved to read, watch her kids and grandkids play sports and enjoyed the Detroit Tigers. She traveled to the Smoky Mountains over 20 times in her lifetime; it was one of her favorite places to be. In the fall, she would often drive down back roads and take road trips for "color tours." She was an excellent cook and baker.

 

Marilyn is survived by her 7 children: Steve (Sue) Dietz of Howard City, Roger (Yvonne) Dietz of Grant, Kathy (Skip) Grant of Newaygo, Marilyn "Marny" (Dale) Salacina of Newaygo, Kristi (Arthur) Barton of Grant, Randy Dietz of Newaygo and Dave (Tricia) Dietz of Middleville. She is also survived by 20 grandchildren, 41 great grandchildren & 1 great-great grandchildren and her loving sister: Judy Corrigan of Newaygo.

 

Marilyn was preceded in death by 2 sons, William "Bill" O. & Kevin Dietz; special daughter, Amy Dietz; the father of her children; William "Bill" E. Dietz Jr.; siblings, Evelyn Cole, Jack Church, Calvin Deitz, Larry Deitz, and Arloa Barry. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be given to Special Olympics or Right to Life.

 

 

Former member of the Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War, 1861 – 1865

With deep sadness, we announce the death of Jane Elizabeth Hall of Wayland, Michigan. She passed away peacefully at home.

 

December 12, 2021, at the age of 77. Jane was a graduate of Wyoming High School (class of ’62) and obtained a masters degree from Grand Valley State University. She had a sharp wit and incredible artistic abilities that truly defined her.

 

She was preceded in death by her parents Truman and Ethel Hall, and her sibling, Robert Hall. She is survived by her children, Beth (Greg) Beach and Paul (Sheri) Lankheet; grandchildren Jackson and James Lankheet; siblings Susan (John) Norder and William Hall; beloved dog, Bob; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

 

In keeping with her wishes, Ms. Hall has been cremated. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) or to your favorite charity. 

 

Member of the Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War, 1861 – 1865

since September 13, 2005

Constance Mary Larson (nee Kelly), was born on July 8, 1928 in Lansing, MI. She grew up in East Lansing where she attended East Lansing High School. Connie began her studies in nursing at Michigan State College but transferred to Sparrow School of Nursing so she could "fast track" to becoming an R.N. She graduated from Sparrow School of Nursing in 1949.

 

Almost immediately after becoming an R.N., she headed west to Colorado where she started her nursing career. She met her husband Joe C. Duncan shortly after her arrival in Colorado. The two of them were married in 1950. They settled in Colorado Springs and gave birth to their five children there. Connie and Joe created many happy memories for their five children-especially birthdays, holidays and family outings.

 

When Joe passed away in 1967, Connie was left a widow and single mother at the age of 38. She had to immediately return to work as a full time R.N. In 1969, Connie and her youngest four children moved to East Lansing, Michigan in order to be closer to her mother and her brother and his family. In 1980, Connie married Harry Larson and moved to Grand Rapids.

 

Connie and Harry loved to "take road trips" to visit her children, grand-children and other relatives in other parts of the country. With her deep love of history and nature, they rarely passed a historic site or park without stopping for a visit.

 

After Connie retired, she continued to travel. Her happiest memories were of family gatherings in the Straits of Mackinac. She also immersed herself in Civil War History as a "Daughter of Union Veteran's of the Civil War." Connie was an active volunteer and mentor for "Kid's Hope" at Kent Hills Elementary School and also for youth programs at Fourth Reformed Church.

 

Connie had a deep faith, expressed through her kind and caring words and actions. She always put others first and always had words of comfort and encouragement for those who needed it. Connie always had a stack of cards so she could send off a thank you card, sympathy card or birthday card on a moment's notice.

 

In her Final years, a very special project was the "Prayer Shawl Ministry" at Fourth Reformed Church. After Connie moved into Resthaven Homes and was no longer able to go to the church for the weekly meetings of the knitting group, they brought the group to Connie. They were last able to meet in person on March 12, 2019. Connie was there, joining in the knitting and laughter.

 

Connie is predeceased by her parents, her husbands, Joe C. Duncan and Harry J. Larson and her oldest daughter, Stella Duncan. She is survived by her children and their spouses: Jane (Richard) Larson, Bill (Nathalie) Duncan, Vicki (Ian) McCargar, Joe Duncan and stepson Tom Larson. Other family members include her grandchildren Alysia Burton Steele (Bobby), Angela Burdick, Reid (Nikki) McCargar, Drew (Dani) McCargar, James (Lizeth) Duncan and Sarah Duncan plus great grandsons Cormac McCargar, James Thomas Duncan and Jackson and Harrison Burdick; sister Jane Wonch. brother and sister-in-law Jim and Joanne Kelly, nephew and nieces including niece Linda (Joe) Meadows. 

 

Due to Covid-19, there will not be a visitation. A memorial service will be scheduled for a future date. 

 

The family would like to give special thanks to the staff of grand-children Homes and Faith Hospice and to Pastor Eric Schalk and the members of Fourth Reformed Church.

 

 

Member of the Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War, 1861 – 1865

since May 5, 1999

Marlene Mildred (Pierson) Hansen, age 80, of Mattawan, passed away May 11, 2016. She was born March 29, 1936 in Grand Rapids to the late Elwin and Maxine (Bricker) Pierson.

 

She is survived by her three children, Winona M. Brewster of Vicksburg, David M. Brewster of Lawton and Robert S. (Phyllis) Brewster of Almena, six step children, Jerry Hansen of Paw Paw, James Hansen of Jacksonville, FL, Jay Hansen of Palm City, FL, Jon Hansen of Issaquah, WA, Tammy Price of Naples, FL and Lorry Hansen, eight grandchildren, Jon, Sean, Elaina, Tyler, Brittany, John, Jimmy and Andy, 15 great grandchildren along with two brothers, Ray Beekman of Reed City, MI and Jim Beekman of Howell, MI. Marlene was preceded in death by her husband, John Hansen and one brother, Roger Beekman.

 

Marlene served her country in the Air Force during the Korean War, she opened her first beauty salon in Texas Corners and followed with several other salons around Kalamazoo. She was a certified Trichologist and Master Gardner she received from Michigan State University. Marlene was a member of the Kalamazoo Valley Indian Association and the Daughters of Union Army Veterans of the Civil War. She was an active member and volunteer with the Southwest Michigan Boy-scouts Council. Marlene took great pride in her country and was very supportive of helping others and equality for all. Burial at Almena Cemetery.

 

 

Member of the Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War, 1861 – 1865

since October 10, 2006   

Marie L. Velting went be with her Lord and Savior on April 7, 2015.

 

Marie was born in 1930 in Grand Rapids to Roy and Nellie Haskins who both preceded her in death. Also preceding her in death is her husband of over 50 years, John Harold Velting, her sister Joan Velting and brother James Haskins.

 

She leaves behind her children; Karen (George) Beardslee, Cynthia Gunnell, David (Dianne) Velting, Larry Velting, 7 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, and sisters; Betty (Bob) Parks, Beverly (Freel) Reyner, Jackie (Gene) Heibel, and Grace Jones.

 

Marie was active member with Northview Church of Christ, Daughters of the Union Veterans of Civil War, and the Grand Rapids Camera Club.

 

 

Member of the Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War, 1861 – 1865

since July 10, 2001

Mrs. Dawn Y. Robinson, age 73, went to be with her Lord on Sunday morning, March 24, 2013. She was born on August 14, 1939 in Grand Rapids, MI. to Fred and Dorothy (Phillips) Adrianse.

 

She belonged to the N.S.C.D. XVIIC Captain Thomas Taber Chapter, Muskegon Chapter D.A.R., D.U.V. Eva Grey Tent Grand Rapids, MI., National Society Magna Charta Dames, and the Towne Family Association.

 

Dawn had a great love of family and family history. She was preceded in death by her husband, Harry E. Robinson; by 2 sisters, Eva May "Molly" Reed and Diana Royce; and by her brother-in-law, Ted Kent.

 

She leaves behind her daughter, Cherie (Don) Adrianse; grandchildren, Shane (Jay) Adrianse, Miranda Nagle; 1 great grandson, Kaden Edwin; step-children, Jean (Mike) McCarthy, Joel (Melissa) Robinson; step-grandchildren, Eric and Ethan McCarthy, Shelby and Kelsey Robinson; brothers, Ronald (Lois) Adrianse, Donald (Sally) Adrianse, Fred (Debbie) Adrianse; sisters, Donna (Bruce) Doezema, Dottie Kent, Marlene (Carl) Thompson, Helen (Stan) Carey; brother-in-law, Robert Royce; sisters-in-law, Mary (Rodney) Belows, Marie (Alvin) Hall, Martha (Richard) Osborn, Sue (Randy) Derks; and many nieces and nephews.

 

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date, and interment will be in Ashland Township Cemetery. Suggested Memorial: The Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. 

 

 

Member of the Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War, 1861 – 1865

since January 14, 2003

Jean Marcella Sowa, aged 89, of Grand Rapids, passed away Tuesday, September 1, 2009. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of almost 70 years, Walter.

 

Jean will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Claudia Sowa Wojciakowski; son-in-law, Joseph Wojciakowski; grandson, Matthew Wojciakowski; sister-in-law, Maryann Sowa; and the Sowa and Wojciakowski families.

 

A special thanks to Barb Looney, Andrea Sanchez for the kind and loving care and Brother Andy from St Alphonsus for his continuous support.

 

Jean was recently honored on her 89th birthday by the Daughters of the Union Veterans for over 60 years of membership. She worked as a civil employee for the FBI as a researcher, at an Army supply depot as a supply control specialist, the Grand Rapids Supreme Court, and the Michigan Court of Appeals as a legal secretary. Jean was a charter member and past president of the Richard Root Smith Library for Doctors at Blodgett Hospital, member of the Grand Rapids Legal Secretary Association and member and past president of the Lincoln School Guild Board.

 

Most of all, Jean's passion for life will be missed by all her family, friends and neighbors. 

 

 

Member of the Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War, 1861 – 1865

since June 8, 1975 

M. Maxine McKinnon, aged 83, of Grand Rapids, passed away Thursday, April 1, 2004.

 

She is survived by her children, Michael Squire, Beverlee (Gary) Van Dyke, Linda McKinnon; grandchildren, Kristi (John) Porter, Richard (Jen) Collins, Travis Collins, Tavia Collins; several great-grandchildren; sister, Beverly Meyering; several nieces, nephews and cousins and a very good family friend, Jerry Nutt.

 

Maxine loved reading, gardening, animals and doing ceramics with her friends. She was also a history buff and belonged to the Daughters of the Union Veterans of the Civil War and the Daughters of the American Revolution.

     

 

Member of the Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War, 1861 – 1865

since May 4, 1999