Obituary for Kathryn "Kay" Ellen Hartwig

Kathryn “ Kay” Ellen Hartwig, age 67, passed away on May 20, 2020 in Wyoming, Michigan after a long illness. Kay was born on October 12, 1952 to Mary Elvera “Vera” (Lawless) Hartwig and Newton Hartwig. Kay was preceded in death by her father (1962) when she was 10 years old; her mother (2006); and her brother Rev. Fr. Lawrence Hartwig (1998).

As a youngster Kay was known for her Irish red hair, wonderful blue eyes and freckles. She loved pickles, potato chips, and playing with her friends outdoors. She loved Michigan in the winter…sliding, skating and snowmen. As an adult, she graduated from the Mercy School of Nursing and spent her early career in hospital acute care, public health, and eventually pursuing today’s equivalent of a nurse practitioner degree at the University of Michigan.

She is survived by her brother, Thomas (Peggy) Hartwig of Rockford, MI; her nieces, Kristin (Greg) Armock (Kristin Hartwig) of Sparta, MI; Meghan Hartwig of Seattle, WA; Nicole Cimoch of New York City, NY; and her nephew, Sean Hartwig of Ann Arbor, Michigan; and great-nieces, Bailey, Delaney and Kensey Armock.

Kay, like so many others suffered from a complex health condition for many years. Her journey on earth was long and hard. May she now rest in peace in the arms of her God, her parents and brother, and all of those loved ones.

In lieu of flowers or memorials, anyone wishing to may direct a donation in her memory to: Disability Advocates of Kent County, 3600 Camelot Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. A private family Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Portland. Committal will follow at Portland Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Lehman Funeral Homes. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.