Obituaries

Kaye S. Kristen

Died Aug. 5, 2014

LELAND – Kaye Snowdon Kristen, 78, of Leland, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2014 at Orchard Creek Supportive Care.

Kaye was born on April 12, 1936 in Lansing, the daughter of Clifton and Adris (Snowdon) Eddy.  Kaye grew up in Lansing and graduated from Sexton High School, where she made life-long friendships. On Dec. 29, 1956, in Lansing, she married Karl T. Kristen.  She attended Albion College and Wayne State University, earning a B.S. in Education.  She worked in the Detroit Schools before becoming a full-time mother and family advocate.  Kaye dedicated her life to the creation of a nurturing home and to the support of her husband, children, extended family and friends.  She was an energetic and imaginative organizer, taking on many leadership roles in her church, community, and social circles.  Her exploits as Girl Scout leader, swim team mother, garden club member, youth group adviser, news editor, and ultimate event coordinator are of some renown.  She was the directive force and tireless industry behind her family, with a remarkable strength of will.  Kaye was a striking beauty and knew how to make an entrance and a point.  Her favorite pastimes included walking and reading on the beach, whether in Michigan or her beloved Sanibel Island in Florida.  She was a gifted cook and set an exquisite table. She enjoyed tap dancing, tending her garden, playing with her grandchildren, sailing and dabbling quite expertly in an extensive array of art media and crafting traditions.  She was particularly fond of fiber arts and enjoyed weaving and needlepoint.  Though strong as an ox, she was very tender and very funny.

In addition to her husband of 57 years, Kaye is survived by her children, Margaret (Ted) Kroll, Erik (Stephanie) Kristen, Polly (Jim) Rouhan, and Kelly (Craig) Wininger; and seven grandchildren.

A casual open house reception celebrating Kaye’s life will be held on Sunday, Aug. 17 from 2 to 5 p.m. at The Old Art Building in Leland.

In lieu of flowers the family encourages donations to the Leelanau Cancer Fund, P.O. Box #235, Lake Leelanau, MI  49653.  Kaye worked in support of this effort by the way of the La-Tea-Da Annual Fund Raiser.

Please share thoughts and memories with Kaye’s family online at ksktkristen@aol.com