Kathy Z. Lewis

Kathy Z. Lewis, 61, of Haslett Michigan, passed away on January 21, 2013 surrounded by her three children and close friends. Born on August 24, 1951 in Dowagiac, Michigan, she was the daughter of Hank and Louise Zimmer, and sister of Connie Clark, Jane Hoopingarner, and Art Zimmer.

Kathy was a graduate of Dowagiac High School and Michigan State University, where she earned a BA in social work. After college she lived and worked as a social worker in England for 14 years, where she was married and had three children—son, Josh, 29; and twin daughters, Rae and Sia, 27. They cherish their memories of a loving, generous, and self-sacrificing mother who taught them the meaning of hard work and responsibility, and who was a powerful role model. Her interest in different cultures and backgrounds and her gift of hospitality made their lives rich and full of interesting people and learning opportunities.

In addition to running her own small business, Kathy worked as a public service commissioner for the latter part of her career, until Alzheimer’s caused her to retire and eventually took her life. Kathy was also a longtime active member of University Reformed Church where she served in a number of capacities and blessed many with her gift of prayer and her faith in Christ. She will always be remembered for her ability to make anyone laugh, even to the end of her life.

A memorial gathering will take place on Friday, January 25th, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 1730 East Grand River Ave, East Lansing.