Jeannette Kanaan Elchami

She was born on March 16, 1942, in Qana, Lebanon, to Tabet and Bahia Saade. Jeannette was the eldest of six children and lived a life full of love, laughter, and dedication.

In 1962, Jeannette married her beloved husband, Kanaan Antoun Elchami, in Jal el Dib, Lebanon. She emigrated from Lebanon to Lansing, Michigan, on June 1, 1978, where she made her home for nearly 47 years. She was a beloved member of the Lansing community, retiring after over 22 years of dedicated service at Sparrow Hospital. Jeannette’s warmth and joy were felt by everyone she met, whether it was through her deep love for her family or her masterful talent in knitting—she could create anything you could imagine.

She enjoyed cherished moments playing cards with her aunts and cousins, and her sense of humor and loving nature brought joy to everyone around her. Jeannette was never shy to express herself, and her intuitive love made her an exceptional friend, mother, grandmother, and sister.

Jeannette is survived by her children: Antoine Chami of Chicago, IL; Fadi (Melanie) Elchami of Lewisville, TX; Salma (Tadd) Pallick of Kentwood, MI; and Nabil (Shelee) Elchami of Lansing, MI. She will be dearly missed by her grandchildren: Ava Chami and Gavin Chami of Chicago, IL; Tara Pallick and Zoe Pallick of Kentwood, MI; and Amelia Elchami and Adrian Elchami of Lansing, MI. Jeannette is also survived by her siblings: Juliette Attieh, Ronda Ajini, and Nicholas Saade.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Kanaan Antoun Elchami, who passed away on October 19, 2007; her sister, Georgette Dagher; her brother, Elie Saade; and her cherished niece, Ava Saade.

Jeannette’s legacy of love, warmth, and kindness will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends. Her memory will be cherished forever.

There are no public services scheduled at this time.