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Suzette “Suzy” Marie Kingman-Lowery, age 65, of Mendon, passed away peacefully Monday, July 24, 2023, at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo. She was born in Pontiac, Michigan on January 26, 1958, the daughter of Richmond and Gloria (Marquedant) Kingman. She was a 1976 graduate of Dowagiac Union High School and earned her master’s degree in education from Western Michigan University. Suzy was passionate about special education; she taught for almost 30 years for the St. Joseph County ISD, at both the Pathfinder Educational Center in Centreville and the Sturgis Young Adult Program, working with students who lovingly called her “the goddess”. Upon retirement, her superintendent told her “you create miracles each day with children”. She was a decades-long advocate and volunteer for the St. Joseph County Special Olympics program and was honored with a “Coach of the Year” award. She also volunteered for the Commission on Aging. She served on the Board of Canvassers, and was an active member of the St. Joseph County Democratic Party. She married the love of her life, Randy Lowery, on July 14, 2006 in Centreville.
Suzette was an avid gardener and could tell you the benefits of any type of plant found in nature. She spent much time sitting on her deck, enjoying the view of the St. Joe River and its surrounding wildlife. She loved genealogy, reading, and all animals, but especially otters. She could tell a story better than anyone, and she lit up any room the moment she walked in. She most loved spending time with family and friends, whether it was on a crazy adventure, or just a casual get-together.
Suzette is survived by siblings Richmond Kingman, Timothy Kingman, Rebecca (Mark) Nizyborski, and Jonathan (Mary Beth) Kingman; in-laws John Luthringer, Diane (Ron) Bryant, Dreasa Lowery, and Rick Lowery; many nieces, nephews, and a circle of friends who are very much family. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Randy; sister, Mary Luthringer; brother, Daniel Kingman, sister-in-law, Joanne Kingman, father-in-law Jay Dee Lowery, mother-in-law Joan Truckey, and sister-in-law Delise Lowery.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 5, 2023, at the Eickhoff Funeral Home in Mendon, where the family will receive friends one hour prior to services. Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Joseph County Special Olympics or the Pathfinders Student Activity Fund.
