Laura M. Surprise, 77, of Watson Township, died Thursday, Dec. 8, at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo.
Laura was born August 17, 1939 in Holland, Mich., the daughter of Harvey and Ethel (Tagg) Phillips. Laura was a licensed cosmetologist and owned Clippers Salon in Martin. She was also a realtor in Farmington Hills and spent many years in Jacksonville, Fla., working as an interior designer for St. Vincent Memorial Hospital. Most recently she was a barista at Java Hut in Allegan, where she loved to chat with and get to know her customers.
Laura was well known for her hospitality and welcoming personality, and was also an excellent cook and quilter. Above all she loved her family, especially her grandkids.
Laura is survived by her son, Lon (Patti Griffin) Todd; five grandchildren: Lacey (Brian) Legowicz, Paige (Jake) Grauman, Terri (Tony) Biesbrock, Ami (Fred) Todd and Jodi (John) Todd; 14 great-grandchildren; four brothers: Bill (Betty) Phillips, Ben (Maryanne) Phillips, Eugene (Paula) Phillips and Tom (Dorothy) Phillips; her daughter-in-law, Dora (Brian) Todd; a sister-in-law, Judy Phillips; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a son, Tim Todd; a brother, Chuck Phillips; and the love of her life, Gary Groen.
Friends may visit with the family from 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 14, at Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel, where funeral services will begin at 11 a.m., Pastor Patrick White officiating. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Allegan.
A luncheon will follow the services at the Griswold. Memorial contributions may be made in Laura’s name to Wings of Hope Hospice or Adopt-a-Pet.