Lorraine Shirley Kigar passed away on January 31, 2020, at the age of 84, and is now in the presence of her Savior, Jesus Christ. She was born in Paris, Michigan on January 4, 1936. She attended and graduated from the Big Rapids Public Schools system (where her son Jeff teaches). She married Hadley J. Kigar on August 17, 1958, and enjoyed 61 years of marriage. Her life was characterized by joyful ministry and compassion towards others. She served as a teacher and librarian in Gladwin, Hastings, and Portage after graduating from Central Michigan University. She earned two master’s degrees from Western Michigan University (Library Science and Educational Leadership) and became the head librarian at Cornerstone University (Formerly Grand Rapids Baptist College). After serving 27 years in education, Lorraine spent the next 30 years ministering to women as a Senior Sales Director for Mary Kay Cosmetics. Lorraine influenced the lives of innumerable people through her ministries in church, business, and personal interactions. She is remembered for her cheerful smile and inspiring words. Her caring spirit and gracious attitude encouraged everyone around her. She shared her exuberance for life in all her relationships. Lorraine was preceded in death by her parents John and Martha Englund, and her sister Audrey. Surviving her is her husband Hadley; sons Kurt (Jennifer) and Jeff (Katherine); grandchildren Jasper (Haneen), Caleb (Kristie), Micah, Noah, Sarah, Levi, and Hannah; great-grandson Advent; and many nieces and nephews. Lorraine was a longtime member of Belmont Baptist Church in Belmont, Michigan (where her son Kurt is pastor). Viewings will be held at the church (6446 Belmont Ave. NE, Belmont, MI 49306) Friday evening, February 7, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. and Saturday morning from 10:00-11:00 a.m., February 8, with a celebration service following at 11:00 am. Flowers can be sent to the church. Also, a memorial fund is being established for one of her special interests at Belmont Baptist Church. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Lorraine Shirley Kigar please visit our Sympathy Store.
FEB 7. 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM (EST)
Belmont Baptist Church
6446 Belmont Ave. NE
Belmont, MI, 49306
FEB 8. 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM (EST)
Belmont Baptist Church
6446 Belmont Ave. NE
Belmont, MI, 49306
FEB 8. 11:00 AM (EST)
Belmont Baptist Church
6446 Belmont Ave. NE
Belmont, MI, 49306
Mrs. Kigar was a very special person in my life at Grand Rapids Baptist College when I was a student there and she was the librarian. She was always kind, friendly and encouraging. I also knew her as my Mary Kay consultant. But most of all she was a great friend and had a great influence on my life. I still remember her pink kitchen before pink was a popular color for a kitchen. She was one of a kind special, classy lady. I believe that was due to her relationship with Jesus. She loved every one. And her love shown to me greatly affected my life. Even though we haven't been in touch for many years, I think of her often when I put on my Mary Kay makeup and the confidence she modeled for me and how that confidence became part of me and influenced my teaching of music to my students.We are so sad for your loss Mr. Kigar, Kurt, and Jeff. The world has lost a very special lady but Heaven has gained a wonderful gift.All our love,Tim and Lori (Reichelt) Beason
- Lori Beason
I am so sorry for your loss. I met her when we both had cottages on South Shore Dr. at Piatt Lake. She was enthused about being a librarian and selling Mary Kay. She was a joy to visit with.
- Mary Hobson
Lorraine was a very good teacher. she help with my mary kay business I will miss her linda ellis
- linda ellis
Pink Hugs and our deepest sympathies to the family. Lorraine will be missed by so many and especially the Mary Kay Beauty Consultants she shared love, caring and so much knowledge. She was always there with a hug and kind words. I know that she and Linda are having quite the reunion.
- Terri Grover
Had and the whole Kigar family, My heart is heavy with sadness that Lorraine has passed from this earth, but praising God she is celebrating in her new heavenly home. Jesus blessed me with her friendship. I thank God for that and the years she mentored my daughter, Becky. With wonderful memories of the years I spent with her at church, Karen Singrey
- Karen Singrey
"Love and sympathies to Hadley, Kurt, Jeff, wives, grandchildren. Lorraine was my friend over 50 years from Piatt Lake (where she wanted to know how she could get a Mary Kay pink Cadillac!). She did! A blessing is we shared Piatt, M.K., and were able to say our good-byes with promises to see each other in our heavenly home and share lots of memories there. A life well lived! This verse depicts Lorraine: James 3:17 - "The wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure, then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere." When we all get to heaven, what a place of rejoicing it will be! Sent with sincere love and sympathies, Shirley Cooke-Spaeth. ("May Those Who Come Behind Us Find Us Faithful.") Love, Shirley "May Those Who Come Behind Us Find Us Faithful!"
- Shirley Spaeth
What great memories we made together at Piatt Lake and Berean Baptist in Portage! Great love to you all! Dee and Jerry
- Dee Horne
Pink Potpourri Bouquet was purchased for the family of Lorraine Shirley Kigar.
- Pink Potpourri Bouquet
Definitely will follow Lorraine's example of unconditional love and joy of life.
- Wendy Weaver
My comment is posted under Teri Vos by mistake. My condolences to Uncle Had, Kurt, Jeff, and my entire Kigar family. I have found memories of Aunt Lorraine, especially when she visited John and I in LA. Such a smart positive lady!! I love dessert and want it first. Sound familiar? Mom (Audrey) adored her little sister. They are now together in heaven. Both will always a special place in my heart. See you soon for the services. All My Love, Nancie
- Nancie, niece
My message should say "fond" memories. Also, ...."have" should be after "always ". Couldn't find an edit button.
- Nancie, niece
Full Of Love Bouquet was purchased for the family of Lorraine Shirley Kigar.
- Full Of Love Bouquet
My condolences to Uncle Had, Kurt, Jeff, and my entire Kigar family. Aunt Lorraine was so positive and smart. I have fond memories of our last three visits when she came out to LA for her Mary Kay business. I know why I love dessert so much!! Both of us want it first. Mom(Audrey) adored her little sister. They are now together in heaven!! Both will always have a special place in my heart. I will see you soon. All My Love. Nancie
- Nancie, niece
Lorraine's faithful journey through life will always be a shining example for me. She was an amazing woman overflowing with love. We'll all miss her dearly! Hugs and love, Barbara R
- Barbara L Rheinhardt
Lorraine and I shared birthdays one day apart with many cards and little trinkets through the years. She always made me feel especially welcome when our women's group went to Gull Lake for ladies days. I will miss her warm smile and encouraging words. Chris Wiersum
- Chris Wiersum
She will be missed dearly, and she will never be forgotten.
- Teri Vos
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