Louise Shaheen

Louise led a life full of love, kindness and generosity. All those who came in contact with her were drawn in by her warmth and welcoming smile. She was the matriarch of her family and led it through deep Lebanese tradition.

Louise was born on October 12, 1928, the third child of Sam and Liah (Rassey) Zerka. She attended Central High School in Flint and graduated in 1946. She was welcomed into the family grocery business where she worked alongside her father and brothers.

She met and married the love of her life, Michael Shaheen, in 1949. They were married in Flint where they celebrated with their large Lebanese community. Michael and Louise enjoyed raising their five children until their Silver Anniversary when Michael passed away suddenly. Louise led her family through this devastating time with courage and grace.

She was happiest at home or at their summer home on Walloon Lake. Mom’s lifeline was spending time cooking with family and friends as well as volunteering at the Greater Lansing Food Bank, where she made long lasting relationships with coworkers.

Louise attended St. Thomas Aquinas Church, where she practiced strong values in her faith which she instilled in her children and grandchildren.

Louise is preceded in death by her beloved parents; her husband, Michael Shaheen; Michael’s siblings, Ralph Shaheen and Lottie Morciglio; and her own brother, Dr. John Zerka.

Louise is survived by her five children, Ralph Shaheen (Denise), James Shaheen (Diane), Carol Shaheen (Clay Nelson), Dan Shaheen (Maureen), and Patricia Shaheen; grandchildren, Sara Hill (Joshua), Leah (Douglas) Sargent, Dr. David (Rubina) Shaheen, Michael Shaheen, Steven Shaheen, Megan Busque (Scotty Busque), Kendalyn, Frederic Abood, Mitchell Abood, Margaret Abood, Benjamin Abood; great-grandchildren, Piper and Ashton Hill; as well as her siblings, James (Helen) Zerka and Alma Albert.

Services will be held Friday, May 20, 2022 at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in East Lansing. Visitation from 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM with the funeral service immediately following the visitation. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to St. Joseph Melkite Church or the Greater Lansing Food Bank.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared below for the Shaheen family.