Lois Hiestand

It is with full hearts and deep gratitude for a life so beautifully lived that we celebrate the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Mary “Lois” Hiestand. On the morning of October 6, 2025, just days after celebrating her 90th birthday, she was peacefully carried into paradise by Wyoming’s wild horses, with family by her side.

Lois was born October 1, 1935, to Ray and Mary Alta Murphy in Seaman, Ohio. After graduating from Whiteoak High School in 1953, she went on to attend business college in Cincinnati, where she began working for the assistant dean of the Evening College at the University of Cincinnati. It was during her time in Cincinnati, that she met the love of her life, Frank J. Hiestand, of Hillsboro, Ohio. The two were married in April of 1956 and spent the next 56 years building a beautiful life together - one filled with laughter, family, and countless adventures.

When they settled down on Lilac Drive, in Jenison, Michigan, they created a home that became the heart of our family - a place where memories were made that will forever live on in all of us. In their retirement years, their travels took them across the country, but it was Cody, Wyoming - where they purchased a summer home in 2003 - that held a special place in their hearts. There, Lois found joy in her flowers, spending time with her dear friend Penny, and in the simple pleasure of hunting for treasures at local sales. She volunteered at the Buffalo Bill Museum, loved the rodeo, and welcomed friends and family from near and far with open arms.

She is survived by her children Janet (Tim) Fischer, Phil (Meribeth) Hiestand, Paul (Kathy) Hiestand, and Julie Hiestand; along with 11 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren who were the lights of her life. She was preceded in death by her cherished husband, Frank, and their son, Terry.

She was the heart of our family - the gentle center that held us all together. She had a gift for making every person feel truly seen and loved. Her presence brought calm, her laughter brought warmth, and her hugs seemed to make everything right again. She was our real-life Snow White - her soft voice, sweet smile, and gentle spirit drew animals to her in the most magical way. Birds, rabbits, and even deer seemed to sense the kindness she carried within her. To some she was Mom, to others Grandma or Gigi - but to all of us, she was love itself. She leaves behind a family rooted in her values and inspired by her love of life and spirit of adventure. A family that will never forget the depth of her soul and the love she poured into them all.

The family welcomes memories and messages at www.cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.

There will be a celebration of her life at a later date. Memorial contributions may be sent to:

Michigan United Cerebral Palsy (MI-UCP)

23077 Greenfield Rd

Suite 205

Southfield, MI 48075