Winifred M. Chance

Winifred Mildred (Gilbert) Chance, 93, of Grand Rapids passed away peacefully on September 13, 2018.

Formerly of Traverse City and Lansing, she had been a resident of Grand Rapids the past six years. She was born in Ludington on October 11, 1924 to the late Norman and Lillian (Barnhart) Gilbert.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Willis (Bill) G. Chance. Two granddaughters, Christina and Sylvia Cortez, daughter, Candice Weber, great-grandson, Malachi Chance and son, William (Bill) Chance. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by all of her siblings; George Gilbert, Cecelia (Marie) Robinson, Beatrice (Bea) Jankoviak, Harold (Russ) Gilbert, Alice Cook and Norma (Toots) Smith.

She is survived by her two sons, Michael and wife Shirley of Lansing, Joseph and wife Jan of Mears. Two daughters, Connie and husband Tom Kukowski of Grand Rapids and Kathy and husband Tom Thomas of Mears. 43 grandchildren including spouses, 39 great-grandchildren including one spouse, 3 great-great grandchildren, many, many nieces and nephews and special friend Ora LaBlanc.

For the most part, Winnie was a stay at home mom, occasionally taking a job here or there. She retired from JC Penney as a sales clerk. Winnie was a strong matriarch who loved her family dearly. She loved to knit, crochet and do all crafts. Never idle with her hands. At the end of Bill's service in the U.S. Coast Guard, together with their first born, they resided at Little Pointe Sable Lighthouse as Bill was the last Assistant Lighthouse Keeper. She was a devout Catholic, strong in her faith and loved the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Friends are welcome to visit with Winnie's family on Friday, September 21, 2018 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home. A rosary recitation will be held at 7:00 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial honoring Winnie will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 22, 2018 at St. Francis Catholic Church, 1025 S. Union Street, Traverse City, MI 49684, with visitation one hour prior. Rev. Fr. Benjamin Rexoat will officiate. Luncheon will follow.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Cancer Society, Child of Mary Org. by visiting www.americanneedsfatima.org and donating online or any organization that benefits handicapped children.

Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Winnie's family at her tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .

The family is being cared for and served by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.