Catherine Marie West
Catherine Marie West, affectionately known as Cathy, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2026, in Charlotte, Michigan, with her family by her side. Born on August 13, 1947, in Lansing, Michigan, to Raymond and Mary (Henderson) Schalow, Cathy lived a life marked by kindness, generosity, and a deep love for her family and faith.
Cathy was raised and educated in Potterville, attending local schools and graduating with the class of 1965 from Potterville High School. She was a devoted member of Sycamore Creek Church in Potterville, where her love for the Lord was a guiding force in her life. Throughout her years, she exemplified a spirit of giving and compassion, driven by her dedication to helping others.
Professionally, Cathy worked for many years as an administrative secretary for the UAW. Beyond her career, she found great joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially cooking for family gatherings. Family was paramount to her, and she cherished every opportunity to nurture those close to her. She loved supporting her grandkids at school functions and cheering them on at their various sporting events. Cathy also had a special talent for crocheting blankets, which she lovingly made for her family members.
In her earlier years, Cathy spent many hours riding alongside her husband Jim while he drove truck, sharing in the journeys of life together. Her commitment to service extended to her community through her involvement with food banks, where she took pride in helping with food distributions to those in need. Cathy’s caring nature and love for her fellow mankind left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
She is survived by her sons, Jim (Missi Latter) West of Lansing, and Eric West of Charlotte; her four grandchildren, Morgan West, McKenzie (Samantha) Shotwell, Abbi West, and Micah (Ashley Nordman) West; and one great-granddaughter, Lucie, who Cathy was awaiting her arrival in September. Her siblings, Dennis (Joanne) Schalow, Mark (Charlyn) Cosgrove, Steven (Melanie) Belzek, Steven (Sharon) Schalow, Edward Schalow, Pamela (Robin) Luce, Jeffrey (Anne) Henderson, Karen (Herm) Arends; sister-in-law Heather Henderson; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Jim in 2000, and her brother Mark Henderson.
Services were held at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home on Friday, June 12, 2026 at noon with Pastor Toby Teague officiating. The family received friends at the visitation for one hour prior to the service. A luncheon followed from 12:30-2:30 p.m. at the American Legion- Charlotte, 1000 W. Lawrence Hwy, Charlotte, Michigan 48813.
Those desiring to make memorial contributions in Cathy’s memory may do so by donating to a local food bank.
To view Cathy’s obituary online or to send condolences to the family, please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
The family is being served by the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home.