Kathy L. DeWitt's Obituary
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Kathy Lynn DeWitt, age 70, who peacefully passed away at home on July 11, 2026, after a courageous 1½ year battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on October 5, 1955, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Kathy lived a life defined by love, devotion, strength, and selflessness.
Kathy was the beloved wife of Lee DeWitt, whom she married on September 27, 1974. Together, they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and lasting friendships. She was a devoted mother to Erika (Jade) Gillette and Lindsey (Kevin) Starken, and a proud grandmother to Henry, Julia, Jackson, Alice, and Ben, who brought immeasurable joy to her life.
Known for her vibrant personality, Kathy never met a stranger. Her infectious laughter, warm spirit, and unmistakable voice could light up any room. She loved gathering with family and friends, dancing, enjoying spirited games of poker, sharing stories, and creating memories that will be treasured for generations. She never missed a chance to enjoy a Bud Light with friends and loved ones, and those who knew her best will always remember the joy, laughter, and authenticity she brought to every gathering. Once you met Kathy, you never forgot her. She had a remarkable gift for making others feel loved, welcomed, and valued.
Above all, Kathy cherished her family. She loved fiercely and unconditionally, and her kindness, guidance, and support will remain a lasting legacy for all who knew her. Kathy's life was a beautiful example of love, generosity, resilience, and grace. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered. Her spirit will live on through the many lives she touched and the family she loved so deeply.
Kathy is survived by her loving husband, Lee; daughters, Erika (Jade) Gillette and Lindsey (Kevin) Starken; grandchildren, Henry, Julia, Jackson, Alice, and Ben; sisters, Bonnie (Dave) Wesorick and Patricia Meyer; sister-in-law, Judi Henry; brothers-in-law, John Nowak and Lanny (Carol) DeWitt; and many beloved nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Morris and Helen Henry; brother, Morris Henry; sister, Maureen Nowak; parents-in-law, Harold and Betty DeWitt; and brother-in-law, Robert Meyer.
A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Friday, July 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Patrick Parish, 920 Fulton Street, Grand Haven. Family and friends are invited to continue celebrating Kathy's life at a Celebration of Life luncheon immediately following the Mass at VFW Post 2326, 20 N. 1st Street, Grand Haven.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Avenue, Grand Haven. An additional visitation will be held at the church one hour prior to Mass.
In lieu of flowers, Kathy has requested that memorial contributions be made to the Bonnie Wesorick Center for Health Care Transformation at Grand Valley State University. Burial will take place at Lakeshore Cemetery at a later date.
Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at https://www.sytsemafh.com.
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