Lucie Svilpe

Lucie Svilpe, nee' Colson, age 89, a longtime resident of Kalamazoo, MI, formerly of France, passed away on January 11, 2018 in Naperville, IL. She was born May 21, 1928 in Auberville, France to the late Lucien and Celestine Colson. Lucie grew up in France where she met Edvins Svilpe. On November 24th, 1951, they were married in Damare, France. In search of a better life, they emigrated from France to Kalamazoo, MI, in 1956, where they raised their family. Lucie became a United States citizen in 1965 and was very proud to be an American. Lucie was well known for her skills as a gardener and loved to grow flowers; especially roses. She also enjoyed traveling all over the world with her family. When she was at home she devoured mystery novels, cooked French food, and went ballroom dancing at the American German Club. Lucie also loved to teach French to students. Lucie is survived by her beloved husband of 67 years Edvins Svilpe; children Alain (Teresa) Svilpe of Mattawan, MI, and Laurie (Daniel) Bachleda of Naperville, IL; grandchildren Elizabeth Burke of Raleigh, NC, Stephanie Kiewiet of Seattle WA, Michelle Svilpe Mattawan, MI, Lauren (Joshua) Morar of Yorkville, IL, and Michael (Kristina) Bachleda of Montgomery, IL; great-grandchildren Madison and Monroe Morar. She is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her daughter Claude Kiewiet; her parents; and her five siblings. Lucie will be fondly remembered and dearly missed. In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 22478 Oklahoma City, OK 73123 www.cancer.org, in Lucie's memory would be appreciated. There will be a private inurnment at Mt. Ever Rest Memorial Park in Kalamazoo, MI Funeral arrangements entrusted to Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 44 S. Mill St. Naperville, IL 60540 For more information, please call, (630)355-0213 or visit www.friedrich-jones.com Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 44 S. Mill St. Naperville, IL 60540 (630)355-0213