Paulette M. Pace

August 28, 1961 - April 17, 2022

Paulette M. Pace, age 60, passed away early Easter Sunday, April 17, 2022. She was born on August 28, 1961 to Leonard Klootwyk and Colleen Whitlow in Muskegon, MI. She was a graduate of Muskegon Heights High School, class of 1980. Upon graduation, Paulette became a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). She began her lifetime career of being a CNA at Sherman Oaks in the 1980’s. She then dedicated over 30 years working as a CNA for Brookhaven Medical Care Facility before their closure in 2018; at which time she chose to retire. Upon retirement, she realized she still had a desire to continue helping others and eventually found her way to Sanctuary at McAuley. Paulette was known for her hard work, helpfulness and always going above and beyond in caring for her residents. Paulette had a lifelong love of fishing. She loved going to the casino and playing her favorite slot machine which, she often won on. She loved her 3 cats and would have adopted more if she had the space. Above all, she truly loved spending time with her family, especially Hayden – a little girl she met just after she was born and instantly fell in love with. Hayden truly was her pride and joy. Paulette will always be remembered for her tender-loving spirit balanced with just the right amount of feistiness. She will be missed by the many who knew and loved her. Paulette is survived by her life partner of over 30 years, Flor Cruz; daughter, Shannon Pace; son, Adam (Boone Grigsby) Cruz; 2 brothers, Robert “Buster” (Lee Sumner) Whitlow and Russell “Rusty” Whitlow; and special granddaughter, Hayden Holt. She is preceded in death by her father, Leonard Klootwyk; and mother, Colleen Whitlow. Per Paulette’s wishes, there will not be a visitation or funeral service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Paulette’s honor can be directed to Harbor Hospice or Heaven Can Wait Animal Haven. Arrangements entrusted to The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.