Loretta Conway

Loretta Conway, formerly of Gaines Township, died peacefully October 25, 2024. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 49 years, John; parents Thomas and Eleanor Dado; and sister, Eileen Mudry. She is survived by her son, Steve (Red) Conway; daughter, Margie Conway; and granddaughter, Simona Conway.

Loretta was a pleasant and friendly person, the type that complete strangers would tell their life stories to or show her their recent vacation photos. Sometimes she wondered why she was their target, but it was because of her kind countenance and approachable demeanor.

One of Loretta's great joys in life was playing clarinet in the Grand Rapids Symphonic Band. She always experienced a great natural high after each concert and missed being part of the band during her final years.

Loretta absolutely loved nature, with the highlights of searching for wildflowers and listening to frogs in the spring. The multitude of backyard birds that came to her feeders was a great source of amusement, and she taught city boy John how to identify them by sight and song.

Loretta loved reading obituaries, clipping out the more amusing ones or those of veterans with distinguished service records. Would she have saved this one, too? The world will never know.

Loretta spent the last year of her life at Green Acres of Wayland (the place to be). Her family would like to extend to all staff their deepest appreciation and gratitude for the care and patience shown to Loretta.

If you are inclined to make a donation in Loretta's honor, please consider giving to the Grand Rapids Symphonic Band or attending at least one of their concerts (the Christmas concert is especially good!).

Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, October 30, 2024 at Kubiak-Cook Funeral Services (Wayland Chapel), 312 N. Main St., Wayland, MI 49348 with prayers of the Rosary beginning at 6:30PM. A funeral Mass will be held 2 p.m. Thursday, October 31, 2024 at St. Therese Catholic Church, 128 Cedar St., Wayland, MI 49348, with visitation from 1-1:45 p.m. prior to Mass. Loretta will be laid to rest at Elmwood Cemetery in Wayland, MI. The family welcomes memories and messages at www.kubiakcookwayland.com in Loretta's online guestbook.