Iva B. Kees, affectionately known by many as “Iva Belle”, passed away peacefully April 27, 2017 at the age of 93. Iva was born July 2, 1923 in St. Louis, Michigan. She graduated Rodney B. Wilson High School in St. Johns in 1941 and remained a lifelong resident of the St. Johns area. Iva met and married her husband Berlin in 1942 while he was in Lansing training for his Navy assignment during World War II. It was love at first sight as they married in two weeks and remained together 52 years. Iva enjoyed cooking for family and friends, playing cards and especially engaging in lengthy conversation where the subject increasingly turned to her ever-growing number of great grandchildren. She enjoyed helping others and for many years volunteered at the Social Service Clothing Center, the Clinton County Senior Center and The Clinton Memorial Hospital Auxiliary. Iva was predeceased by her parents, Lionel and Minnie Kirk Weaver, husband Berlin, infant grandson Todd, sisters Erma, Irene, Hanna and brother Earl. She is survived by children Carol (Dick) Ellis, Ellen Moon and son Dwight (Brenda); grandchildren Cammi (Mike) Robinson, Ryan (Lynley) Kees, Natasha (Tim) Roberts, Rochelle (Jim) Cain and Bridgett (Ryan) Phelps; great grandchildren Megan and Jordan Stoddard, Emory and Ella Roberts, Ryley and Gracyn Kees, Jimmy, Willow and Meadow Cain and Khyra, Elysse and Avynn Phelps; step great grandchildren Logan and Haley Robinson and many nieces, nephews and cousins. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the amazing staff of Gunnisonville Meadows Assisted Living for their love and care for mom this past year. A memorial visitation will be held from 10 to Noon Monday May 1, 2017 at the Keck-Coleman Funeral Home, Inc., 1500 Waterford Parkway, St. Johns, MI with a service to immediately follow with Pastor Ellen Zienert officiating. Burial will be at Payne Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Compassus Hospice & Palliative Care, 801 S. Waverly, Lansing, MI. 48917.
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