Michele "Michi" Willison's Obituary
Big Rapids - M. Michele "Michi" Willison, 76, of Big Rapids, passed away into the arms of her Savior and best friend Jesus on Saturday, July 18, 2015, at Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids. She was born June 30, 1939, in Detroit, the daughter of Francis and Janet (Skae) Gallaudet, and graduated high school from Georgetown Visitation Academy in Washington, DC. In 1962, Michi married George Van Kula, Jr., and they moved to Big Rapids, where she has lived since. Throughout her life, Michi was devoted to serving her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She was active through her church, and served as an advocate for those in need. She gave selflessly of her time, talents, and treasures. Michi married Robert Willison in 1986, and a short time later they built their dream home in Norwich Township which became known as Shiloh Pines. After his passing in 2001, she opened the doors to their home as a retreat for clergy and laypeople alike to relax and unwind, hosted prayer meetings, and offered respite for the weary soul. Michi is survived by her children George (Cathy) Van Kula of Radner, PA, Susan Owens of Big Rapids, Charlie Van Kula of Holland, Katy (Todd) Slater of Reston, VA, David (Marlo) Van Kula of Raleigh, NC; 12 grandchildren, Elizabeth, Anna, Charlie, Kati, Lucy, Hannah, Megan, Abigail, Ian, Emily, Nick, and Isaac; 4 great-granddaughters; 2 sisters, Janet "Jeff" (Ralph) Sturges and Andree "Andy" Anderson; 1 brother Thomas (Gail) Gallaudet; and her many in-laws, nieces, and nephews. She was also preceded in death by her son-in-law Rex Owens, her brother Edson Gallaudet, and her brother-in-law Roger Anderson. Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, July 22, 2015, at Trinity Fellowship Church in Big Rapids, with Pastors Gregg Shewan and Joseph Cottle officiating. Burial will follow in the Hungerford Cemetery in Norwich Township. Michi's family will greet friends from 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 21, at the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids, and at the church after 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday. Memorial contributions in her name may be made to Eagle Village, with envelopes available at the funeral home.
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