Kristen B. Girard, 44, of Traverse City, Michigan (formerly of Grand Rapids, Minnesota) passed away on October 23, 2023, after a courageous three-year battle with cancer. Kristen was born on August 16, 1979, in Bombay, India and was adopted at age two by Andrew and Marilyn (Radermacher) Girard.

Kristen is survived by her daughter, Emilee Girard, of Traverse City, MI; her parents Andrew and Marilyn Girard of Alexandria, MN; her brother Brent (and Michelle) Girard of Eugene, OR; her long-term companion Jefferson Oakley of Traverse City, MI and her beloved goldendoodle Nova.
Kristen was raised in Grand Rapids, MN where she attended Grand Rapids, MN High School and obtained multiple certificates from Itasca Community College. After relocating to Traverse City, MI, Kristen started working for Community Mental Health in 2012 and later at Northern Healthcare Management.

Trolling the Northern Michigan beaches for Petoskey Stones and Leland Blues was her passion but you just might find her cruising under the sun on her moped Peggy. Crafts became a big part of her life, making spirited gifts for everyone around her, only for the joy of giving and bringing a smile to someone's face. She was extremely loving, selfless, feisty and funny and could easily make a new friend everyplace she went. Her daughter Emilee was her proudest achievement and her greatest love.

Memorial arrangements are currently still being made. Visit Kristen's tribute wall on www.Reynolds-Jonkhoff.com for updates.

Tributes and donations in her name can be directed to The Munson Cowell Family Cancer Center or Munson Hospice House in honor of their endless care and compassion.