Laura Kay Gould

Laura Kay Gould, age 84 passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 4th with family by her side. Laura was born April 21, 1940, to John and Grace (Sewell) Gould of Battle Creek Michigan. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Richard Gould; and sisters, Louise Stormzand, and Joyce Ogata. She is survived by her brother, John; and sister-in-law, Kate Gould; brother-in-law, Edward Stormzand; nieces and nephews, Edward and Cheryl Stormzand; Michael Stormzand; Laura and Douglas Van Hattum; and Linda and Jon Cotton. She is also survived by several great nieces and nephews whose artwork was always on full display in Laura's home.

Laura was raised in Battle Creek Michigan and graduated from Lakeview High School in 1958. She continued her education at Michigan State University and graduated with a degree in Art Education in 1962. Laura joined the Peace Corps and served in Malawi Africa from 1964 to 1967, after which she continued to serve as a trainer of groups headed to Kenya. From the mid-1970's to mid-1980's she lived in Washington D.C. where she wrote grants and painted renderings of buildings for the United States Government including the White House, Capital Building, and Washington Monument. Laura returned to Battle Creek residing in the house she grew up in and continued to pursue her passion for art.

With Laura's love of painting, anything could become a canvas including suitcases, chairs, canoes, greeting cards, etc. She was also an expert quilter and together with her sisters, created many beautiful pieces to celebrate weddings, anniversaries, and birthdays. In 2021, her art collection was featured in an exhibit at The Art Center of Battle Creek which she supported.

Laura touched many lives and will always be remembered for her wonderful personality, sense of humor, smile, and infectious laugh. Described by a friend as "one of the treasures of this world", she will forever hold a place in the hearts of those who knew her.

The family would like to thank the staff and caregivers at Sunrise of Cascade for their compassionate care for Laura during her residency. There will be a private family gathering to celebrate Laura's life and in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Art Center of Battle Creek, 265 Emmett, Battle Creek, MI 49017.