Loraine Newman, 95

Alice Loraine (Keeslar) Newman of Sturgis, passed away early Friday morning, July 16, 2021 at Ascension Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo, at the age of 95.
Loraine, as was known by all, is survived by her two daughters: Terri (Carl) Baumeister, Kim (Richard) Stickney; daughter-in-law: Cheryl Newman; and many grandchildren, step grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband Richard and son Scott, sister Dorothy Kuhlman and brother Duane Keeslar.
Loraine was born May 25, 1926, daughter of Orville and Helen (Baldwin) Keeslar.
She graduated from Sturgis High School in 1944 and attended the University of Michigan where she graduated with a nursing degree in 1947.
After graduation, she married her high school sweetheart, Richard Newman, on November 15, 1947. They were happily married for 67 years until Richard’s passing.
Loraine worked at Sturgis Hospital in the Obstetrics Department for 5 years before leaving to start a family.
Loraine was very active in the Sturgis community. She was appointed to the Sturgis School Board in 1969 and then was elected to that board in 1970 serving for 28 years, including several years as its president. She also served on the United Fund Board for 3 years (including 2 years as House Chairman), she was on the Mental Health Board from 1979 to 1980, the PACE Substance Abuse Committee, was a charter member of the Sturgis Junior Women’s Club and volunteered for the Red Cross Blood Bank.
Loraine was Sturgis Citizen of the Year in 1983.
Loraine was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Sturgis, serving on the Women’s Association Board, the session, and the Steven’s Ministry.
Loraine thoroughly enjoyed reading and was an avid bridge player.
In accordance with her wishes cremation has taken place. There will be a private service and family gathering celebrating Loraine’s life. Private placement of the ashes will be in the First Presbyterian Church columbarium.
The Hackman Family Funeral Homes of Sturgis is entrusted with the arrangements.
The family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Loraine’s memory consider Thurston Woods Village, 307 N. Franks Ave., Sturgis, MI 49091 where she resided for 7 years.
The obituary is also at www.hackmanmfamilyfuneral homes.com where we encourage relatives and friends to share memories and leave condolences for the family.