1951
2017
Born June 8, 1951 in Ithaca, Michigan, passed away on July 1, 2017 at the age of 66. Kay was raised on a farm in rural Ithaca. She then moved to Lansing and began a long career working for MDOT for over 30 years. Kay was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Mason and was a member and a past board member of the IAL (International Association of Laryngectomees). She became a Laryngectomee in 1997 and was a survivor for over 20 years, challenging doctors and medical staff all along the way on improving life and keeping in touch with other laryngectomees. Kay's will to live was inspiring to people over the years. Thanks to Dr. Balawender of Lansing for her care and support, U of M Otolaryngology Clinic for their caring over the years, to Teresa Lyden (speech pathologist), and the U of M Cancer Center doctors and staff, especially Mary Beth DeRubeis, NP for her compassion.
Surviving to cherish her memory is her nephew, Dan (Erin) Oakley; great nieces, Loren and Emma Oakley; close friend, Richard Zimmerman who was on this journey to the end; and her beloved cat, Buster.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 7, 2017 at the Mason First Presbyterian Church, 131 E. Maple St., Mason, MI 48854. The family will receive friends from 10-11 a.m. Those desiring may make contributions to the church. The family is being served by the Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes Mason Chapel. Memories and online condolences may be shared with the family at www.grbdmason.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes.
6 Entries
July 7, 2017
Dana Elmo
I was blessed to help care for Kay throughout the years as an assistant to Dr. Balawender and Dr. Spalding. Kay was always a trooper wearing a smile while she was going through hardships that would bring down most people. My thoughts and prayers to the family and friends left behind. May her legacy be carried on for us to be inspired by.
July 6, 2017
Ann Williams
Remembering Kay. A sweet, nice individual. I knew her by her treasures she shared with MDOT. It's always sadden to hear of a co-worker passing, especially when it's a persons with a sweet disposition like Kay's. May Jehovah bless her family as they go through this transition of Kay's home going, bless and protect her spirit, let her kind acts be remember forever. Condolences to her family and the MDOT extended family.
July 6, 2017
Rick Kramer
I am honored and blessed to have known Kay. She was truly a blessing in our lives and I will miss her deeply. Rich, you have my deepest condolences and respect for sticking next to Kay's side during her gallant fight with cancer.
July 4, 2017
Kim Henderson
Kay was such a lovely person, a truly beautiful and peaceful spirit. Always a smile to brighten your day when we worked together at MDOT. R.I.H. Kay. Prayers to you and your family!
July 3, 2017
Sherri Hawkins & Mike Chaffee
Rich and Daniel. We are so deeply saddened by Kay's passing. She was a strong lady and a fighter. Remarkably, she always wore a smile. Rich...you were a such a wonderful companion and caregiver. You stood by her side and I know she felt so fortunate to be with you all these years. She will be missed.
July 3, 2017
May God's loving kindness and comfort help you and your family through this very sad time Psalms 29:11
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