Leona M. Higginson's Obituary
Mrs. Leona M. Higginson, age 86, died early Wednesday morning, June 7, 2006. She was born April 19, 1920 in Pellston, MI to James and Nellie (Ratcliff) Dyer and was a resident most of her life in the Muskegon area. On July 18, 1945, she married Russell D. Higginson and was a devoted, loving wife and mother for more than 60 years. Mrs. Higginson worked for Teledyne Continental Motors for 35 years and was an active Union member and loyal Democrat all her life. While working, she served on the union’s bargaining committee for Local #113 for many years until retiring in 1978. After retiring, she served first as Vice Chairman from 1980-1985 and then served as Chairman from 1985-2006 of the U.A.W. Local #113 Retirees. She was also an acting U.A.W. International Representative for the Region I-D in West Michigan from 1991-2006. She was a determined and tireless advocate for her fellow retirees with their benefits and insurance program. Leona was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and was an Honorary Life member of the Grand Chapter of Michigan. She served as Grand Ruth in 1981-1982 and was a dedicated member of the White Shrine of Jerusalem. She also enjoyed bowling in a league and at tournaments with many friends for 40 years. She is survived her husband, Russell; one daughter, Dee Miskowiec of Roosevelt Park; grandson, Thomas (Cynthia) Miskowiec of Clarksville, TN; great-granddaughter, Kelsie Miskowiec; her extended family, Mary Caul of Naperville, IL, Casey (Jen) Caul – children, Ryan and Katie of Montgomery, IL and Carter (Colleen) Caul – children, Maggie and Mary Kate of Portage, MI; one brother, Samuel (Bonnie) Dyer of Muskegon, and sister, Juanita Dyer of Muskegon. She was preceded in death by one brother, Raymond Dyer and two sisters, Zona Broughton and Sally Runge. She is also survived by many dearly loved nephews, nieces, and treasured friends. A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be held 11:00 AM Saturday, June 17, 2006 at
Sytsema Funeral Homes, Inc.
737 Apple Ave.
(231) 726-5210
with Pastor Owens Snowden officiating. Burial will be in Sunrise Memorial Gardens. VISITATION with the family will be one hour prior to the service. MEMORIALS to the Leila and Cyrus Poppen Hospice Residence or the Masonic Temple Building Fund will be appreciated. Share memories with the family at their On-line Guest Book at www.sytsemafh.com
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