Catherine Ann Lichner's Obituary
Catherine Ann Lichner, age 80, passed away peacefully on Friday evening, April 3, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born March 24, 1946, in Muskegon, MI, to James and Myrtle (Flahive) Lichner. Catherine graduated from Whitehall High School and spent many years working as a nurse’s aide at several nursing facilities before retiring. A devoted member of St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Allendale, she held her faith close to her heart.
Catherine found joy in life’s simple pleasures—gardening, arts and crafts, reading, puzzles, and watching classic films. She also had a love for music and was blessed with a beautiful singing voice. She cherished time outdoors, especially watching the birds in her yard.
Known for her warmth and kindness, Catherine was loved by all who knew her and was famous for her heartfelt hugs. Above all, she treasured time with her family. She especially loved being a grandmother and took great pride in being actively involved in the lives of her grandchildren.
SURVIVORS include her daughter, Tina (Thomas) Dawson; sons, James Russell, Joseph (Amanda) Russell, and Jarod (Elizabeth) Russell; ten grandchildren, Robert (Kaitlyn) Dawson, Brittany (Tyler) Abbott, Michael (MacKenzie) Russell, Jesse Russell, Macie (Colby) Moody, Colson Russell, Myla Russell, Tylor Russell, Zachary Russell, and MaKenna Russell; six great-grandchildren; brothers, Bob (Joan) Lichner, Rusty (Carla) Lichner, Dick (Sally) Lichner; sisters, Mary Kornell and Margaret (Dave) Boertman; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Phillip Ray Russell, Jr. on October 1, 2006; brothers, Jim, Tom, George, and Johnny; and sisters, Jeanette and Jerry.
A Funeral Service for Catherine will be held 11:00 AM Monday, April 13, 2026, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 (231) 798-1100. Visitation with the family will be one hour prior to the service.
She will be laid to rest in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Montague, MI.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Harbor Hospice Foundation.
Share memories with the family at their online Guest Book at https://www.sytsemafh.comMt.
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