Louise A. Day

Alberta “Louise” (Erk) Day, 94, passed into eternal peace on Saturday, April 5, 2025 in Calhoun County with her family at her side. She was born on September 4, 1930 in Ann Arbor, MI; the daughter of Iva Viola Erk. Louise was a very loving women and strong in her faith. Her Grandmother, Lena (Fields) Erk, held a very special place in her heart.

She was a lifelong resident of Battle Creek, graduating from Battle Creek Central High School in 1948. She enjoyed playing the clarinet and was a member of the dive/swimming team. Louise married Clarence C Day, December 5, 1948 at First Presbyterian in Battle Creek and they settled in at Mill Lake, residing there for 59 years. Clarence preceded her in death from an auto accident, 1996.

She was a kind generous soul helping out in her community whenever possible. While raising her family of nine children at the lake, there are memories of her running copies off on the mimeograph in the driveway for teachers, always at PTA meetings, Mothers Club meetings, going so far as becoming a “Ladybug” for the Pleasantview School fund raiser (lip sinking to Beatles songs), as well as collecting for March of Dimes and others around Mill Lake. All nine children graduated from Hastings High School. She was a natural when it came to chickens, gardening, photography, and sewing. New PJ’s and slippers for everyone at Christmas was a project in itself! She had a knack of being able to make holidays very special and thrived at being a mother and homemaker! With her sense of humor, she filled her home with love, laughter and abundant joy.

Clarence and Louise owned the “Day Music Center,” located in Urbandale during the 60’s. When Clarence was away on the Railroad, Louise tended to the store. Later she worked for Pearse Realty in Battle Creek. She loved showing homes and making new friends. Her last employment was with Leila Hospital Pharmacy.

In younger days, she would go deer hunting with Clarence and his siblings in the upper peninsula. A really “GREAT” time was had by all! As empty nesters, Clarence and Louise enjoyed sailing the Great Lakes on the “Clara-Lou.” To their grandchildren they lovingly known as Mema and Pepa. Once retired they spent their winters in Florida.

After her husband’s passing, Louise reunited with a classmate from high school; Don Walker became her loving companion. They indulged in traveling extensively – cruising, spending time in Florida and at family gatherings. They were very happy!

Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband, Clarence C; daughters, Mary Kay and Tonya Lee (Mike) Haas; and dear friend, Donald Walker of Richland, MI. Louise was happiest when with those she loved. She is survived by her brother, David (Joy) Rogers of Hazelwood, MO; eight children, Dennis of Plainwell, MI, Deborah of Denton, TX, Gary of Battle Creek, MI, Lucinda Kurr of Parchment, MI, Jon of Glendale, AZ, Lisa (Robert) Mueller of Grand Ledge, MI, Dale (Julie) of Battle Creek, MI, Terry (Denese) of Gig Harbor, WA; loving grandmother to Nickolas, Kimberly, Kendra, Ryan, Mike Jr, Scott, Keven Jr, Kaitlyn, Stefanie, Brian, Nicole, Robert, Samantha, and Karen; great-grandmother to 13, and great-great-grandmothers to 9; sister-in-law Julie (Brian) Stebleton of Ormand Beach, FL and so many loving nieces and nephews too numerous to count.

Louise will be profoundly missed and forever remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing her. Memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital on behalf of her love of family.

A private memorial and luncheon are planned; interment will be held at Fort Custer National Cemetery.

Special thanks to Hillside Elder Care staff, residents and to Richard A. Henry Funeral Home, for assisting the family through this difficult time.