Geneva Finlay

Geneva Ann Finlay, age 90, of Kalamazoo, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2025, at Rose Arbor Hospice Home, with family close at heart. She was born on July 20, 1934, in Battle Creek, Michigan, the daughter of Clark and Rose (Brown) Knauss. Geneva was raised in Union City, where she became known for her kindness, grace, and quiet strength-qualities that would define her throughout her life. A 1952 graduate of Union City High School, she was Salutatorian of her class and a guard on the girls' basketball team. Geneva pursued her passion for science at the Gradwohl School of Laboratory Technique in St. Louis and began her career as a lab technician. She later joined Borgess Medical Center, then became one of the first employees at IRDC in Mattawan. There, she helped shape the lab's direction, mentored younger colleagues, and retired as Director and Head of Clinical Chemistry. Her intelligence, calm leadership, and dedication earned the respect of her colleagues. In August 1954, Geneva married Robert George Finlay, and they had two children. As a mother, she was devoted and steady-a source of comfort, support, and guidance. The family made lifelong memories during road trips to Florida and summers at a Canadian cabin, filled with laughter, music, and playful moments. Though her marriage later ended, her role as a mother never wavered; she was their rock and source of wisdom. Geneva was a strong, intelligent woman with a gift for listening and quiet wisdom. Her calm presence and thoughtful words offered clarity and comfort to those around her, and her steady example guided many. She gave generously of her time, always showing up for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren-cheering them on in every pursuit, from sports and music to academics and beyond. She celebrated each person's gifts and made everyone feel seen, supported, and deeply loved. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren remember her as a constant presence and quiet guide-a pillar who stood by them through life's challenges. She gave love freely, offered gentle direction, and created space for each of them to grow into who they were meant to be. Even in difficult moments, she led with grace, strength, and wisdom that anchored the entire family. Geneva loved to learn. She was an avid reader and puzzle-solver who kept her mind sharp and curious. A University of Michigan fan, she could often be found enthusiastically cheering for college football and basketball. To her family and all who knew her, Geneva was the embodiment of beauty, resilience, and grace. She was kind, faithful, and deeply devoted to those she loved. Her unwavering commitment to family unity showed in the way she listened, showed up, and quietly brought people together. Her presence was steady and comforting-rooted in love, wisdom, and quiet strength. Her family adored her and will remain forever grateful for the many ways she cared, gave, and loved. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched with her love, strength, and timeless wisdom. She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved sisters, Mary Marie and Carle' Ruth. Geneva's legacy lives on in the many lives she touched. She leaves behind her children: John (Jeanette "Jean") Finlay and Carle Watts (Bill Witek); her grandchildren: Jeff (Valerie) Finlay, Jena (Mitch) Nycum, Jennifer (Tim) Harris, Amber (James) Jones, and Collin (Samantha) Watts; her great-grandchildren: Zachary and Andrew Finlay, Jonas and Gavyn Nycum, Leana and Micah Harris, Eli, Liam, and Luke Jones, and Braylon and Lily Watts; and extended family and friends- each carrying forward the light, strength, and grace she passed on. The family will greet friends on Monday, July 7, 2025, from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial and Cremation Services, 3926 South 9th St. Kalamazoo, where a memorial service will be held at 12:00 PM with a luncheon immediately following. Donations in memory of Geneva may be made to Twelve Baskets 10332 Portage, MI 49002: memo Geneva Finlay Memorial or donate online at Twelve Baskets website. https://twelve-baskets.org

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