Deanna Sue Chisholm

January 14, 1968 - April 4, 2016 (48)

Resident of Okemos, MI

After a courageous battle with Pancreatic Cancer, Deanna passed away at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, MI.

Dr. Deanna S. Rivers Chisholm was the only child born to parents Ralph & Marsha Rivers in Dearborn, MI. She was a Native American of the Muncey Delaware First Nation.

Dr. Chisholm's many credentials include a Master's Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Michigan and a Ph.D. in Global & International studies from Michigan State University.

Deanna’s great-grandmother Belva Waddilove (Ader), is recognized as one of the co-founders of our Nation’s first American Indian urban center back in the 1930’s. Because of her love and remembrance of times together with her great-grandmother, she was proud to follow in her great-grandmother’s footsteps working at the North American Indian Association (NAIA).

Although Deanna thoroughly enjoyed her work with the NAIA, Michigan State University - Native American Institute created a position for her that she called her “Dream Job” because she was able to continue working with NAIA as well as other Native American Communities.

Deanna’s life was highlighted by her 9 year old daughter, Ginger Grace Chisholm. Raising her daughter was her first priority and brought her great joy and happiness.

Deanna leaves behind to cherish her memory, her beloved husband Paul M. Chisholm, precious daughter Ginger Grace Chisholm, loving parents Marsha Rivers and Ralph (Lillian) Rivers, step-sister Louise (Todd) Sable, nephew Marc Sable and niece Emma Sable. She will be deeply missed by her many family members and many friends.

A Traditional Ceremony will be held on Sunday April 10 from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. at the North American Indian Association (NAIA) 22720 Plymouth Rd. Detroit, MI 48239

(East of Telegraph - 1 mile). A feast will follow the ceremony.

In lieu of flowers for Dr. Deanna Rivers Chisholm, contributions may be made to the Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research (www.lustgarten.org) or to a Memorial Trust Fund for her 9 year old daughter Ginger Grace Chisholm that has been set up with the Michigan State University Federal Credit Union, www.msufcu.org, (800) 678-4968.