Jacqueline Kohlhaas, 66, of Paw Paw, passed away Monday April 14, 2014 at her home. She was born January 6, 1948 in Fremont, Michigan, the daughter of the late James and Josephine (Danto) Manchip. Jacki was employed by Duo-Tang, where she was an active leader in the union. During her time with the union, Jacki took classes at Michigan State University to enrich her education in labor laws and rights. After her retirement from Duo-Tang, Jacki was able to pursue her passion and became a Master Gardner. Jacki enjoyed planting flowers and worked at Schram's Greenhouse where she shared her enthusiasm with everyone around her. Jacki especially loved landscaping her own yard, where she created settings to attract both birds and butterflies. Jacki was also an avid sports fan, rooting for the Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Tigers, and most of all, her favorite team, the Michigan State Spartans.
She is survived by two children, Stephanie (Mark) Whitfield of Casper, WY, and Christopher (Jen Cella) Kohlhaas of Gobles; two grandchildren Maisey and Addie Whitfield; her longtime companion, Ben Kruissel of Paw Paw; a brother Robert (Jane) Manchip and sister-in-law Carole Manchip.
Family and friends will be received from 6-8 p.m. Thursday, May 15, 2014 at Adams Funeral Home, Paw Paw, with a Rosary at 7:30. A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 16, 2014 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Paw Paw, Rev. Fr. Joseph Xavier, celebrant. Burial of cremains will take place at St. Joseph Cemetery in White Cloud, MI. Memorial contributions may be directed to Heartland Hospice.