Lorraine Pearl (Holland) Hurtik, 99, of Apache Junction, AZ, embarked on her final journey on November 21, 2023, peacefully passing away in her sleep. Born in Detroit, MI on August 7, 1924, and grew up in Rochester, MI; she worked and raised her family in Plymouth, MI. Her remarkable life was defined by her unwavering spirit, love for her family and zest for adventure.
Lorraine leaves behind a legacy of love and strength, survived by her devoted son, Louis (Maureen) V. Hurtik of Tega Cay, SC; daughters Patricia A. Hurtik, Orion, MI; Joyce E. (Jeff) Fitzwater of Apache Junction, AZ; and Lesa M. (Alex) Neff of Cedar Rapids, IA. Her grandchildren: Anthony, Thomas, Kelly, Alison, Jared, Miranda, Alana, Kayla, Dana, Isabel, Daniel, and Melissa; and six great grandchildren. As well as many loved Grandchildren-In-Laws, nieces, nephews, extended other relatives and many close friends and neighbors.
She is now reunited with her late husband, Louis V. Hurtik, Jr, and her daughter Mary Katherine Hurtik. Also preceding her in death are her parents William L. Holland, Marion L. Holland, her siblings William L. (Alice) Holland, Jr, Paul Holland, Ruth Holland, Marilyn E. (Burton) Bartholomew, Barbara E. (Charles) Case, Alvin J. (Oki Hi) Brayton, Jr, Jack L. (Hope) Holland, and Virginia L. Holland.
Lorraine was graduated from Rochester, MI High School in 1942 and went on to attend Michigan State Normal College (now Eastern Michigan University), and at the time was the premier teacher preparatory school in MI and was the first teacher training school in the US to have a four-year degree program, to pursue her dream of becoming a teacher. After graduating in 1946, she returned to Rochester and taught at Brookland School. After her marriage in December 1947, she taught in Willow run Schools in Ypsilanti, MI. Louis and Lorraine started a family and built a home in Plymouth, MI, and there she taught 27.5 years at Starkweather, Allen and Bird elementaries, mostly first grade, retiring in 1982 after a total of 33 years of teaching.
Lorraine would tell anyone who listened that she had “a very fortunate life”. Her dreams of teaching and raising a family were her goals. “Keep on moving” was her mantra for those who asked her the secret to her longevity. She consistently walked, rode her bike, (then trike), and did water exercises up until the end. Her adventurous spirit led her to enjoy countless trips over the years. While raising her family, during summers she vacationed around the USA as she wanted to see it. After her husband passed away in 1984, she sold the family home and moved permanently to Apache Junction, AZ, where she resided for 38 years at Lost Dutchman RV Park. She traveled to visit her family and friends during summers. As well as venturing around the world visiting every corner and country that was on her list!
Lorraine was a devoted member of her church, Amazing Grace Presbyterian in Apache Junction, and a former member of The First Presbyterian Church, Plymouth, MI. She is a lifelong member of the Girl Scouts of America, Member of the sorority Sigma Kappa (formally Pi Kappa Sigma), MARSP, MEA-Retired, NEA, CSA Fraternal Life-Lodge Pingree, and Plymouth Elks Lodge. A celebration of life will be planned for a future date. Donations in her memory can be given to the charity of your choice.