Louise "Weesie" Ferguson's Obituary
Louise “Weesie” Ferguson, age 92, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 9, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on August 17, 1932, to Leonard and Viola (Harry) Brauer in Muskegon, MI, where she remained a lifelong resident. Louise worked hard to provide for her children between working in the Celery Flats, at the Apple Orchard and cleaning houses, but her favorite was working for Cole’s Bakery. She loved the smell of the fresh bread and the lovely people she worked with. Outside of work, she was a beloved fixture at the Lithuanian Club and a familiar face at the casino, always ready to press her luck and pull the levers on her favorite quarter machines. She rarely missed a “Wacky Wednesday” and had a deep love for dancing and music. A fan of classic country, she especially LOVED Waylon Jennings (she cried when he died, as if she lost her very best friend) and also enjoyed Luke Bryan, Alan Jackson and Blake Shelton, with an occasional splash of Snoop Dogg in the mix. Snoop’s music may not have been her taste, but she thought he was hilarious! Known for her quick wit and playful charm, Weesie could just as easily win a game of Skip-Bo as she could flirt with a younger gentleman. Time spent with her often meant enjoying a cold drink, though never with chicken, fish, or poultry on the table. Weesie will be remembered for her zest for life, her sassy spirit, and her unwavering love for her family. She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, joy, and unforgettable memories that will be cherished by all who knew her. She is survived by her two sons; Ron Bates and Gary Bates; seven grandchildren, Angela (Russell Herron) Ferrier, Anthony (Amy) Ferrier, Dennis (Norma) Bates, Bridget (Aaron) Nieubuurt, Kimberly Bates, Jennifer Bates and Zack Bates; bonus granddaughter and partner in crime for Wacky Wednesday, Kelly Edwards; numerous great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Jack Ferguson; four children, Robert Bates Jr, John Bates, Dennis Bates and LuAnn Ferrier; and two brothers, Ray Brauer and Albert Brauer. A Celebration of Louise’s Life will be held at 3:00 PM on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 737 E. Apple Ave., Muskegon, MI 49442 with visitation from 1-3:00 PM. Share memories with the family at https://www.sytsemafh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Louise?
What’s a lesson you learned from Louise?
Share a story where Louise's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Louise you’ll never forget.
How did Louise make you smile?