Janice M. "Mickey" Umstead's Obituary
On Wednesday, November 30, 2022 our Lord called Janice “Mickey” Mae Umstead (nee Hazekamp) to come home to rest. She is surely bringing a smile and hugs to her family who have been waiting for her beautiful soul. At her departure from this life, she was greeted by the biggest and brightest of angels.
Mickey has had a life to remember. Born June 1, 1934, as the youngest of 3. Her artistic abilities spanned from painting to sewing. Her loving husband relished every one of her talents. Her talents were recognized at a very young age. She drew a study of stringed instruments in chalk at the age of 13 which traveled around the United States. A beautiful china painter producing pieces that rival the finest known artists. She taught painting classes in schools and her home specializing in folk art and sceneries. Known for painting full vignettes on glass Christmas balls, they are treasured by all who possess them. Her talents also extended to sewing. Many clothes her children wore were made by her hand. Later in life she started sewing quilts and table runners. She would use her eye for colors and patterns to create outstanding works of fabric art. Her quilting skills are shown prominently during the advent season at Unity Reformed Church in Muskegon, MI.
Ron saw Mickey when she was the majorette for Muskegon High school and fell in love with her. Fate then brought them together in their late 20’s and love bloomed. Because of the marriage to the love of her life, they were able to travel to many exciting places around the world including Paris, Spain, and the Netherlands. The travels had them meeting people from all walks of life from everyday people to sheiks. The family celebrated their 61 years of marriage in many different ways. Family camping started at their 45th and has continued to this day. For their 50th they brought the entire family of 25 on a cruise.
A devout Christian and lifelong member of Unity Reformed Church. Her faith was strong. Her heart was full and at peace. She had fierceness that spawned from a strength from her Dutch heritage and growing up during the depression. Janice recognized her blessings and lived a grateful giving life.
She started working as a doctors assistant to Dr. Hanley, an ophthalmologist, and continued off and on for over 30 years until her hands were unable to continue. She liked working with people and helping them. She continued helping and giving right up to her passing.
Janice is now celebrating her pain free, eternal life in Heaven watching over those who are still on earth carrying on her legacy Her husband Ronald, children; Mikalea (Kevin) McWilliams, Steven (Julie) Umstead, Georgiann (Wayne) Micallef and Kathleen (Kurt) Steudle-Schwander. Grandchildren; Cassandra (Ryan) Voissem, Julia Steudle, Kaylee (Chris) McWilliams, Mitchell Voissem, Emily (Taylor) Umstead, Matthew (Allison) Umstead, Claire (Kyle) McWilliams, Donovan (Emily) Steudle, Bailey (Caleb) Straley, Macy Schwander, Garrett (Kayla) Micallef. Great-Grandchildren; Bradan Mitchell and Oliver Straley. Sister-in-law Jackie Wilde and many loving nieces and nephews.
FUNERAL SERVICES for Janice will be held 2:00 PM Monday, December 5, 2022 at Unity Reformed Church (1521 Porter Rd.) with Pastor David Celeskey officiating. VISITATION with the family will be from 6-8 PM Sunday, December 4, 2022 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 (231) 798-1100. Burial will take place in Lakeside Cemetery.
MEMORIALS to Unity Reformed Church will be appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online Guest Book at www.sytsemafh.com
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