Cindy Lee Herlein
Cindy Lee Herlein, a strong-willed wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and Christian, died surrounded by her loving family on Thursday, August 24, 2023, after a courageous battle with a rare form of cancer. Cindy, 60, of Olivet was born on June 7, 1963, in Hastings, the daughter of Roland “Bud” and Joan (Hummell) Bair. She graduated college from the Grand Rapids School of Bible and Music, and later graduated from Argubright Business College earning a Business Degree. On September 30, 1989, Cindy married the love of her life, Phil Herlein, and together they spent the next 34 years creating lasting memories. Cindy worked for Northwestern Michigan College for 10 years until she and Phil moved to Olivet. She then began working for the Olivet Public Schools where she has worked for the last 16 years. Cindy was all about education and being able to work with children. Her devotion to the Lord was very important to Cindy, she attended the First Baptist Church in Charlotte and the Leslie First Baptist Church.
Cindy loved making trips to Shipshewana and to different garage sales around the country. She was a very frugal person and always looked for the best deal. Cindy was a Master Couponer and would spend her Sunday clipping out coupons from the newspaper. Other hobbies that she enjoyed were feeding the birds, reading, baking, cooking, tending to her vegetable and flower gardens, and most importantly helping people in need. Above all Cindy loved being with her family, especially her grandchildren.
Cindy is survived by her husband, Phil; children, Kurtis (Felicia) Herlein, Alex (Rachel) Herlein, Tyler Canterbury; grandchildren, Eloise, Dawson, and Theo; mother, Joan Bair; siblings, Jody (Dan) Bivens, Earl (Jenny) Bair, Renee (Glen) Creek; dear friends, Deb Schwab, and Jeanna Ruthruff. She was predeceased by her father, Bud Bair.
Friends are encouraged to support Cindy’s family by sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Youth Haven Camp in Rives Junction. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.