Louise McNamara

Many characteristics make up the lives of many great people, but those derived from the heart are the qualities that leave a forever imprint on the hearts of others, and Louise McNamara was such a woman. Resourceful and creative, she was an ambitious, hard worker who put the needs of family before her own. She was compassionate, loved unconditionally, and above all, cherished her family. Louise loved reading the Bible and always looked forward to attending meetings at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. She was comforted by and enjoyed learning Bible truths. Louise held fast to her opinions, and was never afraid to defend her beliefs. She was a special woman in the hearts of those she leaves behind, and will be deeply missed.

Although conservative in nature, the decade of the 1950s sculpted the culture of America. From music to movies, art and media, to beloved comic strips and cartoons, households were introduced to a whole new way of life. With manufacturing and home construction on the rise, the economy boomed as the suburban dream was being realized. Yet nestled in the Upper Peninsula community of St. Ignace, Michigan, along the shores of Lake Huron, life for Louise Mary was just beginning. Born on July 18, 1950 to Rose Shenoskey, young Louise later experienced the loss of her brother when they were both merely youngsters. Due to varying circumstances, Louise was in time adopted by the Olewinski family of Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Louise went on to enjoy a childhood typical of the times. After high school, Louise met and fell in love with Charles Luck. Eager to begin a family of their own, they welcomed the birth of their son, Chuck, before moving south to New Orleans where they were blessed with the addition of their daughter, Stacy. Eventually returning to Grand Rapids, Louise later completed her family with the birth of daughter, Kimberly. Louise was a wonderful, attentive and loving mother whose life revolved around her kids. They felt unconditionally loved, and always knew how very proud mom was of them. In her children, Louise instilled the importance of faith, kindness, and hard work. She loved spending time with her kids, and could be quite inventive when it came to stretching the budget for entertainment. As a family it was the simple things that mattered most.

Even as the years progressed and her children came to have families of their own, it brought Louise the greatest joy sharing family times together. Along with her children and grandchildren, many lasting memories were created with family trips to the zoo, enjoying the circus, or just simply enjoying each other’s company. Louise dearly loved her grandchildren, and would have liked more time to have spent with them.

Louise had quite a green thumb, and could grow anything. She thoroughly enjoyed spending time in the yard tending to her flowers. For many years, she also raised birds, cockatiels and love birds, and even dedicated an entire room in her home to them.

Louise was very simple and frugal. She wouldn't spend anything on herself, but never thought twice about giving to others. Genuine goodness was at the core of Louise's heart. She was always kind and caring, and her compassion and willingness to help was a blessing in numerous ways. Louise had a great sense of humor and the cutest laugh. She made friends easily. Gentle by nature, Louise was also a strong, independent woman.

Following her cancer diagnosis in July of 2013, Louise retired from Meijer after 13 years with the company when it became too difficult for her to work. She was thankful for the additional time she had to spend with those she loved. As her health began to diminish, Louise spent the last of her days at Faith Hospice of Trillium Woods. Remembered as a kind, caring, honest, and hardworking woman, Louise will never be far from memories reach. She gave her all and then some, and will be deeply missed.

Louise Mary McNamara, age 64, of Grand Rapids, passed away Tuesday, March 3, 2015. She is survived by her children, Chuck (Amy) Luck, Stacy (Craig) Karman, and Kimberly Luck; grandchildren Lynsey, Jordan and Shelby Bartnick, Haley Griggs, Hillary Haviland, Zachary and CJ Karman, Alyssa Luck; as well as many friends and other family members. A service to remember and celebrate Louise's life will be held on Friday, March 6, 7:00 PM at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home - Van Strien Creston Chapel, 1833 Plainfield NE where friends may visit with her family from 5:00 PM until the service. For those who wish, memorial contributions to Faith Hospice are appreciated. To read more about Louise's life, to share a photo or memory and to sign her online guestbook, please visit www.lifestorynet.com.