Elizabeth May Kempher, age 83, of Rapid River passed away on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at LakeHouse Assisted Living in Escanaba.
Elizabeth was born October 12, 1940 in Newberry, Michigan, the daughter of Mack and Shirley (Bell) Duflo. She was united in marriage to Larry Kempher on July 9, 1966 in Newberry. She was a member of the Memorial United Methodist Church in Gladstone where she participated in the Quilting Club, the bell choir and helped with the clothing closet. She was also a member of a knitting club in Rapid River and enjoyed sewing, gardening, fishing and mushroom hunting.
Elizabeth is survived by her children, Dennis (Melissa) Kempher of Gladstone, David (Daryn) Kempher of Los Alamos, New Mexico and Ann (Madison) Dickson of New Franken, Wisconsin; grandchildren, Richard and Hannah Kempher, Michaela and Carter Dickson and Alex Amaro, three great grandchildren; her sister, Irene Wierengo of Grand Haven, Michigan and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Larry, her parents and brothers, Pat and Mickey Duflo.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, October 12 from 10:00 to 11:30 AM at the Memorial United Methodist Church in Gladstone. Funeral services will be at 11:30 AM with Pastor Terri Branstrom officiating. A luncheon will follow services in the fellowship hall. Elizabeth will be laid to rest in the Rapid River Cemetery.
Sue Alexander - Rapid River, MI
We are so sorry to hear about Liz. I just sent her a Birthday Card on Tuesday and had planned on stopping to see her on Friday. We have wonderful memories with her & Larry on winters in Texas & Arizona.
Sally Farrell - Escanaba , Mi
Sending condolences to the Kempher family. I met Liz while working at Memorial church. She and I had many conversations during my working years. Found her to be a very nice person to talk to. I was blessed to know her.
Sherri Makowski - Hudson , FL
So sorry to hear of Liz’s passing. I met Liz while quilting at Calvary Lutheran in Rapid River. She was such a sweet lady and always so helpful. She had a quiet way about her but we could get her to talk and laugh often. I would call, on her birthday, since I moved away to Florida. This year, I didn’t get to do that and just wanted to let her family know that she will certainly be missed by many. Rest in peace Liz. ♥️
Wilma Vanderdonck - GLADSTONE, MI
To the Kempher kids,
I was verry sorry to hear about your Mother. I was down state. I have very fond memories of your mother and dad, having been neighbors for so many years.
My sympathies go out to all of you.
Blessings,
Wilma Vanderdonck