Mary Katherine "Katie" Spurgeon

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Mary Katherine Merrill "Katie" Spurgeon, aged 75, on November 28, 2023, at her home in Lake City, Michigan. Katie, a beloved educator, devoted family member, and a beacon of faith in her community, was born on September 22, 1948, in Saginaw, Michigan to William and Gertrude (Phander) Merrill. Raised in Saginaw, Katie attended St. Stephen grade school and St. Peter and Paul High School. Her love for education guided her to Western Michigan University, where she earned a B.S. in Elementary Education. She furthered her academic pursuits at the University of Michigan, receiving a M.A. in Reading Education, and later at Wayne State University for a M.A. in Library Science. Katie's 33-year tenure with the Van Dyke Public Schools was a testament to her passion for teaching. For 25 years, she illuminated the lives of elementary students before concluding her career as a Media Specialist in Middle School. Katie's dedication to fostering a love for reading, especially in students who found the subject challenging, was a cornerstone of her educational philosophy. Her personal life was equally rich and fulfilling. Katie married William Spurgeon on July 14, 1973, at St. Stephen Church. Together, they built a life founded on love, faith, and mutual support. As a spouse and mother, Katie's selfless and nurturing nature was a source of comfort and strength for her family. She is survived by her husband, William; children, Will (Maggie) Spurgeon, Paul Spurgeon, and Colleen (Justin) Davis; and grandchildren, Maizey and Lucy Spurgeon. Katie's legacy is also marked by the loss of her parents and sister, Ann Michalski. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 6 from 4 - 7 p.m. at Wm. Sullivan and Son Funeral Home, 705 W. Eleven Mile Rd. (four blocks east of Woodward), Royal Oak. Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, December 7 at 10:00 a.m. (9:30 visitation) at The National Shrine of the Little Flower in Royal Oak, 2100 Twelve Mile Rd., Royal Oak. Burial will follow at the Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Southfield. The Young-Holdship Funeral Home served the family in Lake City. In remembrance of Katie's life, memorial contributions may be made to the Ardis Missaukee District Library, 210 S. Canal St, PO Box 340, Lake City, MI 49651. Her commitment to education and reading will continue to inspire through these contributions. Memories and words of comfort may be shared on Katie's tribute wall at www.SullivanFuneralDirectors.com as we celebrate her remarkable life. Katie's spirit and legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of all those she touched.

Mary Katherine "Katie" Spurgeon

September 22, 1948 - November 28, 2023