Catherine Hope French, age 70 of Holland, passed away Sunday, November 21, 2021, at Appledorn Living Center.
Born and raised in Muskegon, MI, Catherine was the 3rd youngest of 11 children born to Richard and Mildred Thomas. Having so many older siblings, she “grew up” with many of her nieces and nephews, maintaining a special bond with them throughout the years. She was a proud member of the Muskegon Heights High School marching band, skillfully playing the flute until she graduated with the Class of 1969.
As a mother, Catherine devoted her life to raising her daughters, filling the role of both mother and father. She always provided for her girls, making sure that they never went without, even if that meant working multiple jobs. She led by example, showing her girls how to be strong independent women. After her girls grew up and had kids of their own, she proudly become “NeeNee” to her grandchildren who she adored more than anything.
Throughout her life, Catherine demonstrated a strong love of animals, with dogs having a special place in her heart. She adopted many “rescues” throughout the years, giving loving homes to dogs that may have not had a chance otherwise.
Catherine was an avid reader and treasured her library of books. She also had a passion for writing, and would often write poems, limericks, and short stories to share with others. When she was not reading or writing, she enjoyed playing Solitaire and growing her Pinterest collections, of which she had many followers.
Life was not always easy for Catherine, but her resilience, faith in God, and general stubbornness helped her persevere through the many challenges that life brought her way. She did her best to maintain a positive attitude and encouraged her loved ones to do the same. In the end, God knew that her body and soul were tired, so he peacefully called her to her heavenly home. She is now reunited with her parents, siblings, loved ones, and a long line of furbabies welcoming her home. Catherine will be greatly missed, but her work on Earth is done. Her memory will continue to be honored through her daughters, grandchildren, and lifelong friends.
Catherine was preceded in death by her parents, Richard & Mildred Thomas, along with siblings Lincoln, Patricia, Marvin, Mike, Tom, and Annie. She is survived by daughters Elizabeth Walworth and Miranda (Ben) Blevins; 5 grandchildren, Christopher, Jade, Noah, Caitlin, and Liliana; sisters and brothers Barb Randall, Judy Riley, Timothy Thomas, and Norm Thomas; many extended family and friends.
A funeral service to celebrate Catherine’s life will be 1:00 pm Friday, November 26, 2021, at Lakeshore Memorial Services, 11939 James St., Holland. Entombment will be at Restlawn Memorial Gardens.
Visitation will be from 12pm until the time of the service Friday at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations in Catherine’s name to Harbor Humane Society or local Humane Society of your choice.
Please visit www.lakeshorememorial.com for further information.
