Judy LaHaie of Grand Rapids, MI, ascended with bravery and grace. She is preceded in death by her husband, Jerry; her oldest son, Tom; her parents, Rose and Howard “Bud” Berkins; and many wonderful aunts and cousins. Judy is survived by her dear children: Greg (Elise Lockton) LaHaie, Rob (Jennifer) LaHaie, Michelle (Ray) Zimmerman and Amy LaHaie. Her beloved grandchildren – Kevin, Sydney and Kyle – brought her immense joy and great pride, and she also had affection for her many “grand dogs.”
Born and raised in South Haven, Judy enjoyed many adventures on and around Lake Michigan. She was quick to make friends and maintained lifelong relationships with many cherished school mates. A favorite tradition in recent years was meeting up with friends at Crane’s Pie Pantry in Fennville to enjoy a “pie flight.” Judy didn’t drink alcohol but rarely passed up a sweet treat.
Growing up, Judy was a talented pianist, dancer and an avid sports team supporter as a member of cheerleading and pep squads. During her collegiate years at Davenport College in Grand Rapids – where she met her husband, Jerry – her natural beauty and style was often captured in photographs featured in the school and city newspapers. Judy even walked the catwalk as a model for local department stores and cut quite the figure in her day.
Judy’s greatest joy in life was raising her family and keeping a meticulous home. She enjoyed good food and good music, including the stylings of “Haulin’ Oats” (a favorite family joke). She was a birder who delighted in visits to her feeder from colorful cardinals, finches and especially hummingbirds. A lover of nature, she kept the neighborhood squirrels, ducks and deer well-fed with lots of treats from her pantry. No one ever went hungry in her presence.
She had unwavering faith and volunteered at St. Alphonsus and St. Robert’s Parishes, donating food, time and care to bring families comfort during funeral luncheons. She took time to read and reflect on daily devotionals, and she was the first to wish her family and friends a Happy Birthday. Judy was the master of the thank you note.
In her later years, Judy was a voracious reader and puzzle aficionado. She looked forward to Christmas year-round and held child-like wonder for the holiday season. She loved to give gifts and relive her favorite times when her children were smaller than their piles of presents.
Judy will be remembered for her beautiful smile, sense of humor, witticisms and determination. She was able to travel to many exciting places during her lifetime – from Hawaii to Switzerland to Fiji and beyond – but she cherished being home surrounded by those she loved most of all. Her family is at peace knowing she is now at home in heaven.
Judy’s family will greet relatives and friends from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Thursday, October 13, 2022, at the O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Chapel, 3980 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 14, 2022, at St. Alphonsus Church, 224 Carrier St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505, with visitation one-hour prior and followed by a luncheon. A private family interment will take place later.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Ann’s Home (www.stannshome.com) or Emmanuel Hospice (www.emmanuelhospice.org).
One Response
I’m sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing. I have such wonderful memories growing up with you all in the old neighborhood. She was always smiling as I recall. God bless you LaHaie’s.