Katherine J VanGieson

During the early hours of April 9, 2026, a rainbow appeared in the skies above south Jackson, Michigan. Shortly thereafter, Katherine “Kay” VanGieson, as she was known, embarked on her final journey. She went to her Lord and Savior. At 103 years old, Kay endured many changes with strength, determination, and undivided faith. She was born in Hillsdale County on March 22, 1923, and later moved to Jackson with her parents and siblings. Kay only saw the good in people, always encouraging, never judgmental, and she was a remarkable role model with a humorous nature and a twinkle in her eye. She was characterized by one colleague as “always professional and a genuine class act.”

Kay was a devoted wife, mother, aunt, and grandmother to her family. She and her husband, Rollo, maintained the VanGieson homestead, a designated Centennial farm for over seventy years. They were dedicated members of the South Jackson Community Church for many years.

Kay enjoyed Bible study, working in and around her home, and reading as a pastime. During her lifetime Kay worked outside the home as well. Employment included “The Dome,” Gilberts Chocolates, Bell Telephone, Aeroquip, Service Soft Co., and lastly Willbee Concrete.

Preceding in death were her husband, Rollo B., daughter, Denise I. Burnette, and grandson, Damon J. Lynch; as well as her parents, Seldon and Zella Field, half-sister Doris Crapo (Field), brothers Seldon, Jr., and Leo, and her sister, Madelyn. Surviving are her son, Timothy and daughter-in-law, Cynthia VanGieson; granddaughters Emily E. Ward (VanGieson), and Sarah L. VanGieson, both of Denver, Colorado; step-grandchildren Abby Britt and Tyler Gaetzi. Also surviving are great granddaughters, Brittany Batterson and Brandy Archer (Lynch); great grandchildren Ronin and Leighton Ward; Donna Lynch Dobbin, grand daughter-in-law, and several Field nieces and nephews. Of special note are her devoted nieces Sherry McCormick and Tammy (and Manni) Redeker, who attended to Kay’s well-being throughout her life. Kay’s many lifelong friends included several VanGieson relatives, friends Leone Elder (deceased), Eleanor Slabaugh (deceased), Diane Schulcz, D’Vonne Yonnic, and especially Sandia and John Kane.

Kay’s life magnified God. A private graveside memorial will be held at South Jackson

Community Church at a future date. Donations may be made in Kay’s memory to the following:

In Touch Ministries:

https://store.intouch.org/donate/general?_gl=1*1tf1kx0*_gcl_au*MTI4MzkxNTcyLjE3NzYyNzMzMzI.

Optimal Care Hospice, 801 Rosehill Rd., Jackson, MI 49202

Or a charity of your choice

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