Ethel Mary Rasche

Our Mom, Ethel Mary LaVigne Rasche, 92, of Black River passed away January 17, 2015. She was born July 25, 1922 in Black River, married at St. Gabriel’s Church and lived in the same home her entire life and was the oldest resident in the village. Mom married Virgil Rasche in 1946 and they operated the general store for 48 years and raised four children. Dad preceded her in death in 1997. Surviving are three daughters: Diana (Tim) Friedt, Spruce, Marilyn (Jerry) Burton, Alpena, Sandra (Don) Abend, Ossineke, one son, Kevin (Nancy) Rasche, Hubbard Lake. Eleven grandchildren will miss their Grandma and sixteen great grandchildren will always remember their GG. Preceding Mom in death were four sisters that she dearly loved and we so enjoyed hearing the stories about when they were young and living together. Dora LaVigne Langenburg, Julie LaVigne, Rena LaVigne Hartley and Ann LaVigne LeClair Schmidt were her family as they lost their parents when they were quite young. Bingo, playing cards, watching the Detroit Tigers and casino trips added much joy to Mom’s life. Being involved with St. Gabriel Altar Society and Rosary Group kept her busy as well as visiting friends and family. On a warm summer day, Mom would be sitting on her swing on the deck gazing at the land that gave her cherished memories of days gone by, Our family was blessed to have Mom enjoy her last months at Turning Brook where she received great care and met wonderful friends. Memorials can be made to Hospice of Michigan for their thoughtfulness and comfort. We will celebrate Mom’s life at St. Gabriel in Black River with visitation from 11:00 A.M. until the time of the Mass at 12:30 P.M., Wednesday. Rev. Bob Bissot will officiate. Gillies Funeral Home of Lincoln is handling the arrangements. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Ethel Mary Rasche, please visit our flower store.