Guadalupe "Lou" Besonen

Guadalupe "Lou" Besonen (Orta) aged 82, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2024, in Holt, Michigan. Born on April 8, 1942, in Crystal City, Texas, Lou was a nurturing, generous, adventurous, and witty individual who touched the lives of many. Lou graduated from Everett High School and pursued education at Kirkland Community College later in life. She was involved in the Civil Air Patrol in her younger years, demonstrating a commitment to service that would define much of her life. Lou dedicated herself to her family as a full-time mother before becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). She worked in various locations including Gaylord, Grayling, and Lansing, specializing in the care of the elderly. A devout member of the Catholic Church, Lou's faith was a cornerstone of her life. Her hobbies were as diverse as her career, including shopping, traveling, camping, cooking, reading, sewing, basket-weaving, and occasionally volunteering at local food banks. She also enjoyed crossword puzzles, showcasing her sharp wit and love for challenges. Lou is survived by her daughters, Ellen Hufnagel, Lezlie (Chris) Cook, Gayle Ericks; grandchildren, Paul (Anna) Holden, Audrey (Joe) Simonetta, Jessica Holden, Victoria and Ava Ericks, and Ty, Zane, and Ayden Cook; great-grandchildren, Tyler (Catlyn), Ariana, Giana, Elliana; great-great grandchildren, Serenity and Melloday; her sister, Jane (Bill) Wright, and brother, Art Orta, along with many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Joseph G. Orta, and brother, Jesse D. Orta. A celebration of Lou's life will be held Sunday, August 4, 2024 at the Okemos Masonic Lodge (2175 Hamilton Road, Okemos) from 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. The family invites all who knew Lou to visit: www.MichiganCremation.com to sign the online guestbook, share memories, and express condolences. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The American Diabetes Association in memory of Lou Besonen, honoring her generous spirit and life long commitment to helping others. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Christiansen's Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Greenville, 616-754-5638. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Guadalupe "Lou" Besonen, please visit our flower store.