Sr. Marie Leonard Richert CSJ

Sr. Marie Leonard Richert was born in Flint, MI on June 28, 1935, and was baptized Shirley Ann Richert at St. Matthew Church. After five years of education with the IHMs at St. Matt’s, her family moved to Flint’s east side and became members of St. Mary parish. Inspired by her mother’s deep faith and by the example of the Sisters of St. Joseph, Sr. Marie entered the congregation on January 2, 1956. On July 2, 1956, she received the habit and the name Sister Marie Leonard. Sr. Marie professed first vows on July 2, 1958 and final vows on July 2, 1961. She went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree at Nazareth College and a Master’s degree at the University of Detroit. From 1958-1972 Sr. Marie taught in schools of the congregation in Lincoln Park, Algonac, Ferndale, Chicago, Charlotte and Flint. From 1974 -1983, she ministered at St. Francis Home for Boys. After which, she worked with the elderly in Port Huron and Kalamazoo between the years 1983-1988, and moved into parish work for the next twelve years. From 2000-2004 Sr. Marie had the opportunity to care for her parents. From 2004 until she retired, Sr. Marie tutored students at Holy Rosary Parish in Flint. When her health failed, she eventually returned to Kalamazoo and made her home with her sisters at Nazareth Center.” “My decision to become a Sister of St. Joseph was a good step for me. I had the support of family, friends and the Sisters I already knew. As a Sister of St. Joseph, I had opportunities to be involved in many different ministries serving the people of God. I completed my ministry circle tutoring children just like when I was sent out to teach them on my first mission. I have only been able to accomplish working in such diverse settings and ministries because I am a Sister of St. Joseph.” And now, as she did at her 60th Jubilee, Sr. Marie Leonard, with Our Lady, can shout out from eternity: “My soul proclaims the greatness of God… for the Almighty has done great things for me and holy is His name”. May she rest in peace. Burial in Gate of Heaven Cemetery will be on Sept 24 at 1:30pm. A Memorial Mass at Holy Family Chapel in Nazareth Center, Kalamazoo will be arranged at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Congregation of St. Joseph at 2929 Nazareth Rd. Kalamazoo, MI 49048. Arrangements made by Redmond Funeral Home, Kalamazoo.