Colleen M. Poehlman, 99, of Niles, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 2, 2024, at her home in Niles Michigan, with all three daughters and her only two granddaughters, at her side.
She was born on August 16, 1925 in Battle Creek, Michigan to the late Charles William Sr. and Mable C. (Akerly) Mellen.
On April 16, 1945 Colleen married the love of her life, LaVoy Poehlman at a ceremony in Buchanan, Michigan. Colleen and LaVoy shared a lifetime of wonderful memories including owning and operating Poehlman’s Service. They celebrated 65 years of marriage before LaVoy preceded her on February 24, 2011.
Along with her parents, Colleen was preceded in death by her daughter, Lorraine Poehlman PA-C, and siblings, Barbara Mellen Smith, Charles W. Mellen Jr., and Roger “Jack” Mellen (died in infancy).
Left to cherish Colleen’s memory are her loving daughters, Diana Blackburn of Niles, Karen (Mike) Chappell of Fenton MI, and Eileen (Daniel) Whitten of Niles, six grandchildren: Mark (Nicole) Blackburn, Kristin Blackburn, Daniel (Heidi) Chappell, Matthew (Kimberly) Chappell, Emily Whitten, and Andrew (Dana) Whitten, as well as an honorary grandchild, Harjeet Garcha, and seven great-grandchildren: Nicholas (Emily) Chappell, Hunter Chappell, Samuel Blackburn Bailey, Mitchell Chappell, Zoe Blackburn Bailey, Lily Whitten, and Ellie Whitten, as well as two foster great-grandchildren, Joseph and Christopher Winschel.
Colleen devoted her life to her husband and four daughters, and was steadfast with providing her daughters a full spectrum of learning and experiences; taking on the position of Girl Scout leader to broaden their experiences. Colleen both taught and lived a life that was an example of hard work, how to budget and save, respect for others, and the life skills for running a household. Her ability to pass on her wisdom and knowledge was remarkable; learning was an adventure and enjoyable. Colleen never missed an opportunity to surround her family with support and immense love, this will be her legacy.
Gifted with her hands and an eye for detail, Colleen excelled in quilting, sewing, and ceramics, crafting treasures that would warm the homes and hearts of those she loved. Her adventurous spirit found joy in the tranquility of fishing, whether on the beautiful waters of Lake Michigan or amidst the rugged beauty of Alaska. A true matriarch, she nourished her family not only with love but also with the magnificent meals she prepared, her recipes rich with care, nourishment and delicious ingredients. Described as loving and generous by those who knew her best, Colleen’s legacy is one of unwavering commitment to her family and the simple joys of life. Her absence will be felt deeply, but her spirit will continue to inspire and guide her family like the steady, guiding light that she always was.
Memorial contributions may be made in Colleen’s memory to Caring Circle Hospice at 4025 Health Park Lane, St. Joseph, Michigan 49085 or to the Wounded Warrior Project 4899 Belfort Road Suite 300, Jacksonville, Florida 32256.
Visitation for Colleen will be held Friday, September 6, 2024, at Brown Funeral Home in Niles, MI from 1:30pm till the hour of 2:30pm with a funeral service being held at 2:30pm, held at Brown Funeral Home in Niles. Colleen will be laid to rest between her husband and daughter at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens.
Memories may be shared with Colleen’s family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. Colleen Mae Poehlman will forever remain in the hearts of those who were privileged to know her and blessed by her endless love.
Services
Visitation
Friday, September 6, 2024 1:30PM – 2:30PM
Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services 521 E. Main Niles, MI 49120
Service
Friday, September 6, 2024 2:30PM – 3:30PM
Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services 521 E. Main Niles, MI 49120
Burial
Friday, September 6, 2024 3:30PM
Mission Hills Memorial Gardens 61453 M51 Niles, MI 49120
Final Resting Place
Mission Hills Memorial Gardens 61453 M51 Niles, MI 49120
Posted On: Wednesday, September 4, 2024 3:53 PM
