Lillian Mary Hetherman

1928 - 2016

Hetherman

Lillian Mary 87, died peacefully on March 3, 2016 at her residence in Eastpointe, Michigan, with family at her side. She was born in New York City on April 4, 1928, the daughter of Hungarian immigrants, Egyed and Margaret (Hudeczek) Colman. Lillian spent the majority of her life in the Detroit area, having moved to Michigan with her husband, the late John W. Hetherman. But she always considered herself a native New Yorker, and her favorite memories included days at Coney Island; Saturdays at Loew's Avenue B where a quarter could buy two features, a newsreel and cartoons; and knishes for a nickel, the likes of which could never be found later in life, exactly as she remembered them. In later childhood, Lillian moved to Vermont with her mother and sister, the late Margaret F. Carty, of Plainfield. There, she received a Bachelor's degree from Goddard College in 1951 (Music Composition and Philosophy). She earned a B.Mus in (1954) and M.Mus (1956) from Eastman School of Music, in Music Theory with piano as her instrument. Later, she brought her impeccable typing and grammar skills to State Farm Insurance, where she worked for twenty years. Lillian is remembered by her children for lovely piano renditions of Chopin Waltzes, and in later years, for a sublime "Begin the Beguine," a tune that she inexplicably began to play after developing Alzheimer's. She had a great appreciation for nature, tended bountiful backyard gardens, enjoyed the beach, and had a kind heart toward animals, especially towards her beloved dog Mädi. Lillian was a down-to-earth, health-conscious person who valued education and the arts. There was always room at her table for anyone needing a friend. She enjoyed bowling, cards, coffee shops, old movies, word searches, jokes and finding a good bargain. She could play a mean game of Scrabble and ping pong, and never forgot how to dance the Lindy Hop. She will be remembered most for her outstanding and colorful sense of humor. Lillian passed from this earth believing that "life is a miracle." She was a beautiful, dedicated mother who gave tirelessly to her children all she had, with all her heart. She will forever be deeply missed. Lillian is survived by four children: Margaret F. Hetherman of Brooklyn, NY; John W. Hetherman (Cheryl) of Novi, MI; Heidi M. Maglicic (Scott) of Eastpointe, MI.; and Christopher J. Hetherman (Lisa) of Stevens Point, WI; also two nephews and a niece; and grandchildren Liliana, Brandon, Laura, John, Madison, and Brady. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer's Association or Rose Art Foundation (livingwithdignity.org). A celebration of life will be held at a later date.