Connie Sue Cvitkovic

Connie devoted 18 years to work she genuinely loved as a bartender at The Moose Lodge. In that role, she offered far more than a welcoming place and a familiar face. Her steady presence, generous spirit, and sincere interest in others made customers feel like family. Conversations at the bar were never merely small talk to Connie, they were a way of keeping close to people’s lives, and if someone hadn’t been in for a while, she was the kind of person who would notice and quietly check in.

Her warmth and attentiveness carried into the everyday joys she treasured. Breakfasts at Denny’s with James were especially meaningful to her. She also delighted in the stories and characters she followed faithfully, with a particular love for Harry Potter, Supernatural, NCIS, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Each week, she looked forward to watching The Masked Singer with Amanda and Alexandria, the three of them texting throughout the show as they tried to guess who was behind each mask.

Connie was extremely intelligent, and she carried that sharp mind with an ease that never overshadowed her kindness. She was known for her selflessness and her huge heart. To many in Albion, she was not only a friend but an “amazing bonus mom,” and she also held a cherished place as a grandmother. She seemed to know everyone in town, and a quick trip to the grocery store could easily turn into a long outing, simply because Connie would run into so many people she knew.

Connie will be remembered with respect and gratitude by all who were fortunate to know her, and for the steady, caring way she made people feel seen, valued, and at home.

She is survived by her best friend of 31 years, James Nyssen; daughter, Amanda (Stuart Musson) Cvitkovic; bonus sons, James (Tiffany) Nyssen Jr and Joseph Nyssen; bonus daughter, Teresa (Joe) Hartsell; grandchildren, Alexandria Musson, Adrian Musson and Amelie Nyssen; sister, Jana Cousins; brother, Robert Cousins, as well as, several nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her son, Vincent Avant Jr, and her parents, Harry Cousins and Jan Hink.

Memorial contributions can be made in Connie’s memory to the family in care of Moore & Marsh Law Office, 202 S. Monroe St., Albion, MI 49224. Checks can be made payable to Moore & Marsh Trust.