Carla Jan “CJ” Conder passed away on March 22, 2021, at the age of 66, after a 7-year-battle with dementia.
CJ was known for her friendliness, sense of humor, and artistic talent. She was a graduate of Kendall College of Art and Design and worked as an Art Restoration Specialist. Born and raised in Traverse City, CJ loved nature and spending time by the water. She and her husband, Dick, made their home in Rockford, MI, where they raised their daughter, Mackenna. CJ was dedicated to her family, friends, and pets. Her happiest times were when she got together with loved ones for lakeside bonfires, Trivial Pursuit, good music, and cold beer.
CJ is greatly missed by her husband, Richard Conder, daughter Mackenna (Christopher) Morse, grandchildren Mayla and Harrison Morse, sister Paula Egan, and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents Gary and Betty Routsong, and her brother John.
The family would like to thank Clark Retirement in Grand Rapids, MI, for providing extraordinary dementia services; and also to recognize their staff who were true friends to CJ. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Clark Foundation “Benevolent Care Fund” in memory of CJ Conder. www.clarkretirement.org/the-clark-promise
The service celebrating and honoring CJ’s life will be held on Friday, April 23, 2021 at Stegenga Funeral Chapel, 1601 Post Drive in Belmont, MI; with visitation at 10am and memorial at 11am.
Leave Your Tribute Message
It was over a year ago that she whispered in my ear “look me up, look me up” and I did. And I viewed the video, and my heart broke.
She was “Edith “.
And I was “Emma” .
Doing our funniest, vilest version of the LilyTomlin character “Edith Ann” ever. We made everyone laugh…
We were the two most awful “five year olds” you’d ever want to meet. 😊
We both got busy with “life” and lost touch.
She knew I’d had a son. And I knew she’d had a daughter. I knew she lost her dad.
And come to find out she lost her mom, John, and Paula as well. Again, my heart broke.
I keep “Carla” tucked away in a very special place in my heart.
- Ellen Miller
CJ was one of the happiest, bubbliest, most charismatic people I have ever had the opportunity to know. CJ impacted my childhood in a way I’m sure she could never imagine. Her vibrant personality could easily light up any room. I have great memories of visiting her at her cabin, eating the best peach cobbler ever, sitting by the fire and swimming in the lake. I find joy in knowing she is being greeted with love and warm, open arms by my Grandma Carol and Aunt Renee. Sending my condolences to the family.
- Kamilah
You were one of the most beautiful souls I have had the pleasure to know. Thank you for the wonderful childhood memories and always believing in me. You will never be forgotten, CJ
Love,
Kendra
- Kendra Shepherd
This still doesn’t feel quite real to me. I will forever have so much love for CJ and the whole family. I will never meet anyone that was as happy to see me as she was. Never a moment went by where I didn’t want to just sit and hold her hand. She will be truly missed.
- Shelbie
Order flowers for Carla's service.
Seasonal Potted Plant (mum, poinsettia, cyclamen, etc.)
Thinking of You Basket
Gerbera Greetings
Natures Glory
Sincere Sympathy Garden
Blooming Duo
Loving Embrace
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Stargazer Garden
Designer’s Choice Grand Vase Arrangement
Tender Touch
White Wonder
Bells of Beauty
Stargazer Easel Spray
Beautiful Memories
Remembrance Easel Spray
Beautiful Blessings Wreath
Colorful Memories Wreath
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