Lois Cauwels Breitkreuz

Lois Cauwels Breitkreuz, 69, of South Haven, Michigan died October 8, 2010 at the South Haven Healthcare and Rehabilitation Home, where she resided since 1986. Born January 18, 1942 in Paterson, New Jersey, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Irene Cauwels of Santa Cruz, California. Lois graduated from North Carroll High School in Hampstead, Maryland, and John Brown University in Siloam Springs, Arkansas. She had an early career in education and Sunday school teaching. Later, while disabled by Multiple Sclerosis, she engaged in a caring prayer ministry for others. Lois enjoyed gospel music and watching all sports on her television. While a patient for 24 years she served as president of the Resident Counsel and encouraged others by sharing her faith, bringing them joy and hope. As her health worsened she showed courage and was an inspiration to the staff, who considered themselves fortunate to know and care for her. She appreciated the visits of family and friends and loved seeing her grandchildren and hearing of their school experiences and activities. Surviving are a daughter, Rebecca Sanford, a son and daughter-in-law Stephen and Diane Breitkreuz, grandchildren- Ryan, Aaron and Eleanor Sanford, and Emma, Luke, Jack and Josh Breitkreuz all of St. Joseph, Michigan. A sister and brother-in-law Jan and John Veteto of Colorado Springs, Colorado, a brother and sister-in-law Paul and Jacque Cauwels of Merced, California, a brother and sister-in-law David and Charlotte Cauwels of Albuquerque, New Mexico, a brother and sister-in-law Jack and Phyllis Cauwels of Mt. Hermon, California, a sister, Dolores Snyder of Westminster, Maryland, an aunt Mattie Coombs of Tom's River, New Jersey, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. The family will receive friendsfrom 9 – 11 AM until the time of the service at 11 AM, Tuesday, October 12, 2010, at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Rd., St. Joseph, Michigan 49085 with the Rev. Dr. John Hosler, of Napier Parkview Baptist Church, officiating. Internment will be at Riverview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be sent to Angle Tree Prison Fellowship, P.O. Box 1550, Merrifield, Virginia 22116-1550 or Napier Parkview Baptist Church, 245 W. Napier Avenue, Benton Harbor, Michigan 49022. Arrangements are entrusted to Starks & Menchinger Chapel. You may sign the guest book and offer on-line condolences at www.starks-menchinger.com.