Genevieve Anna Kolberg

Genevieve Anna Kolberg, age 93, passed away on Thursday, December 17, 2015 at The Villa at West Branch. She had lived in West Branch, MI her entire life. Genevieve was born to Herman and Justina (Green) Illig in West Branch on November 10, 1922. She was a member at St. Joseph Catholic Church, the League of Catholic Women, and the American Legion Auxiliary. In the late 1942’s she had her first trip out of West Branch. She became “Rosie the Riveter” at the Willow Run B-24 bomber plane plant in Ypsilanti, MI until the last plane rolled out the door just before D-Day of World War II, when she became laid off. On October 19, 1951, she married Conrad Kolberg in West Branch and shared 39 years together until his passing in 1990. Genevieve enjoyed baking; especially Christmas cookies, caring for the elderly up until she was 84 years old, playing cards, dancing, and spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Genevieve is survived by her son, Harry (Barbara) Kolberg of West Branch, MI; grandchildren, Cristopher Kolberg, Jennifer (Jason) Krol, and Nathan (Kristen) Kolberg; great grandchildren, Aubrey Kolberg, Peyton Krol, Drew Krol, Marah Kolberg, and Brynlee Kolberg; siblings, Ambrose Illig, Adolph Illig, Georgina (Don) Brick, and Irene (Richard) Funch. She is preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Justina, husband, Conrad, and siblings, Leo Illig, Edward Illig, James Illig, Alfred Illig, Lloyd Illig, and Helen Pratt.

Visitation at Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch will begin on Sunday, December 20, 2015 from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. A Rosary and Scripture Service will be held at 6:30 p.m. by Sr. Barbara Matievich O.P. On Monday, December 21, 2015 Genevieve will lie in state at St. Helen Catholic Church beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the Celebration of Life Mass at 11:00 a.m. Father Donald Brick will officiate.

Memorial Contributions can be made to St. Joseph School Endowment Fund, Heartland Hospice, and The Villa at West Branch.