Isabella Grace Tolsma

Isabella (Izzy) Grace Tolsma passed away on 3/10/2025 in her family’s home in Jackson, Michigan. She is survived by her parents, Kevin Tolsma and Sarah Hashimoto, brothers, Peter and Patrick, and maternal grandparents, Irvin and Marianne Hashimoto. She is also survived by her maternal aunt and uncle, Jacob Hashimoto and Dawn Chan, and paternal aunt and uncle, Dennis and Jean Brender. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Otto and Jennie Tolsma.

Izzy was born (with her twin, Peter) on 10/20/1998 at U of M Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She quickly developed into a bright, inquisitive toddler with a zany sense of humor. She taught herself to read at 3 years old and, by 4, could read literature aimed at those in their early teens. She also showed an interest in art and had many adventures with her twin brother. As time progressed, so did her intellect, and she was recognized as an advanced student, particularly in literature. Izzy had a broad spectrum of artistic interests. She played acoustic and electric guitars, banjo, ukelele, and mandolin. She composed music, wrote poems, painted, and drew. She also demonstrated potential in baking, making the best macarons her parents had ever had.

Izzy graduated from high school and later earned a bachelor's degree in psychology at Eastern Michigan University (EMU.) At the time of her death, she was working toward completion of a master’s social work degree at EMU. In her adult years, she was an ardent advocate for those who are marginalized, providing case manager services to refugees who had moved to the Washtenaw County area during her last 2 years of life. Izzy grappled with challenges during her life, many of which became apparent in her mid-teen years. Nonetheless, she kept her wittiness, sense of family obligation, and her profound love of animals. She will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Cascades Humane Society, a cause that was dear to Izzy’s heart.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 1 pm. Jackson's First Presbyterian Church, 743 W. Michigan Ave., Jackson, MI, 49201.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Cascades Humane Society, a cause that was dear to Izzy’s heart.

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