Louise Rice

Louise passed away on October 14, 2018, at Kalamazoo Heritage Community. She was born on June 21, 1925, in Kalamazoo, daughter of Dr. Clarence and Lorena (Wood) Conklin. She lived her entire life in the Kalamazoo-Portage area. She graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School in 1943 and Western Michigan University in 1947. She was united in marriage to her husband of 69 years, Donald C. Rice in April, 1947. Together they raised their two children, daughter Kayle and son Steven. Louise worked at Fidelity Federal Savings and Loan for fifteen years as a service representative where she enjoyed helping her many loyal customers. She retired the year she turned 70. She was an avid Bridge player. Louise was preceded in death by her husband Donald Rice in 2016 and her sister Ruth Paulsen in 1991. She is survived by daughter Kayle Rice and son-in-law Brian Leekley, son Steven and daughter-in-law Janice Rice, three grandchildren Sarah (Chris) May, Emily (Dan) Young and Steven Thomas (Amanda) Rice, along with five great-grandchildren: Noah, Addison, Alyssa, Avery and Arlend. She also treasured her special nieces Judy Lewis and Jill Spiro, as well as nephew Jon Paulsen. Per her request cremation has taken place and a private inurnment will take place at a later date at Mt. Everest Memorial Park. There will be a memorial gathering at Wyndham Hall, 2300 Portage Street, on Thursday, October 18th, from 2-4 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to The Heritage Community Foundation, 2300 Portage Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49001. Louise's family extends their gratitude toward those who befriended her and took care of her at Wyndham Hall, Wyndham West and Southern Care Hospice. Please visit Louise's webpage for directions, online guest book or to leave a condolence. www.langelands.com.