Lorraine M. Steimel

Lorraine M. Steimel

Age 93, lifelong resident of Northville, passed away June 10, 2022. She was born on June 18, 1928 in Northville, Michigan; daughter of Frederick and Helen (Connor) Rieger. She graduated from Northville High School; Class of 1947.  Lorraine met John J. Steimel on a blind date.  They were united in marriage on June 30, 1951 and spent 29 loving years together until his death on January 17, 1981.

Lorraine worked as a dental assistant for the Northville State Hospital for many years. Her career began shortly after high school, but after having her first child Lorraine left to care for her family.  Truly devoted to her family, Lorraine stayed home and focused her energy on her husband and her children.  When her boys were middle school aged, she took a part time job as a proofreader for the Northville Record.  After her youngest son graduated, she returned to the Northville State Hospital and worked as a dental assistant until she retired in 1991.

Lorraine, who had a strong sense of community, loved being a lifelong Northville resident.  A member of First United Methodist Church, she and her family worshiped and celebrated many events there.  She was awarded the honor of being the most senior member of the Ladies Auxiliary of American Legion Post 147, where she served as the past president.  She also served on the Northville Housing Commission from 1981-1990, a position she took over after her husband died and left a vacancy.  Outspoken and not afraid to stand up for what she believed in, Lorraine was active with the March of Dimes and League of Women Voters in the 60’s and 70’s.  She enjoyed travelling around the United States including Arizona and Las Vegas.  As a member of the NOMADS, she visited Russia and China.

Lorraine was an avid reader; one of her favorite genres were mysteries.  She adored animals and always had a menagerie of pets in her home, including dogs, cats, parakeets, gerbils, and more.  Lorraine liked to shop, especially for clothing, but also for Christmas gifts for family throughout the year.  She loved Christmas; Lorraine valued the tradition of hosting in the family home each year, festively decorating, and making Christmas dinner.  Throughout the years her home was always open to her children’s friends and at the holidays anyone who didn’t have somewhere to go was always welcome.  Generous with her love, Lorraine was known as a grandma to some children who were special to her.  She was a beloved mother, wife, daughter, and friend and will be missed by all who loved her.

Lorraine is survived by her loving sons, Jon Steimel and Brian Steimel.  She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and Brian's partner Raymond Masters.

The visitation will be held Tuesday, June 28, 2022 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. with the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville.  Following the services she will be laid to rest next to her husband at Rural Hill Cemetery in Northville.

In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate memorial contributions to the American Heart Association , 27777 Franklin Road, Ste. 1150 or Michigan Humane , 30300 Telegraph Road, Ste. 220, Bingham Farms, MI 48025.