Therese Ouding

Therese Marie (Raith) Ouding of Vicksburg, MI, passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord and Savior on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at the age of 58. Born on May 7, 1966, in Kalamazoo, MI, she was the cherished daughter of Franklin and Martha (Christof) Raith.

Therese had an incredible gift for making people feel loved and valued. She dedicated 39 years of service to the Sisters of St. Joseph, where she formed lifelong connections with the nuns she cared for and worked alongside. Even after retiring, she continued to receive heartfelt letters from those whose lives she had touched.

Family was the cornerstone of Therese's life. After her father's passing, she took it upon herself to keep everyone close, ensuring that love and togetherness remained at the heart of the Raith family. She embraced every moment spent with her loved ones, whether it was camping under the stars, making treasured memories in Frankenmuth, or hunting for unique finds at the Shipshewana flea market.

She found pure joy in the sun and water, never passing up an opportunity to bask in their warmth-whether on the shores of Lake Michigan, lounging by the pool, or soaking up the rays on the deck, even in the crisp chill of 45-degree weather.

Known for her unwavering honesty and vibrant personality, Therese had a deep love for 80s music and all things purple. She was outspoken yet fair, always speaking her mind with a mix of wisdom and warmth that made her the go-to confidante in her family.

Her faith was an essential part of her journey, and she found great purpose in her church community. She was actively involved in the Youth Group Apple Pie Fundraiser and, as she grew in her faith, she remained devoted to raising her children with a strong spiritual foundation.

She is preceded in her passing by her father.

Her loving memory will be cherished by her husband of twenty years, Mark Ouding; her children, Joshua (Annabelle) Raith and Emily Ouding; her mother; her siblings, Frank Raith Jr. and Cathy (Rich) Harger; her niece, Chelsea Raith; her oldest and dearest friend, Wanda; and many other beloved relatives.

In accordance with the family's wishes, a time of visiting will be held at Avink, McCowen and Secord Funeral Home, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097, on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held the following day on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at ChapNaz Church, 7520 E U Ave, Vicksburg, MI 49097, with a time for visiting at 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m., with Pastor Ashley Robbins officiating. Therese will be laid to rest at Vicksburg Cemetery following the service.

Memorials made in Therese's memory may be directed to the ChapNaz Church: Love Our Kitchen Campaign. Envelopes are available at the funeral home.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com, please take time to sign Therese's guestbook and/or share a memory with her family.

The Ouding family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097. 269-649-1697.