Denise E. Lien

CARSONVILLE- Denise Lien, 76, of Carsonville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 11, 2026. Denise was born to Oscar and Mildred Ostertag on May 16, 1949, in Detroit, Michigan. The youngest of three children, Denise grew up with her brothers, Jon and Dale, on Penn Street in Dearborn, where she formed friendships that would last a lifetime. It was on that same street-while walking her brother's dog-that she met the love of her life, Rod. The two were married on May 17, 1974, beginning a partnership rooted in devotion, love, and family.

Shortly after marrying, Denise and Rod moved to Michigan's Thumb, where Denise fulfilled her lifelong dream of building a family. There, she formed a close-knit circle of friends who remained dear to her throughout her life. Denise's greatest joy and purpose was being a mother. Her love and support were unwavering, and she never hesitated to offer thoughtful advice, encouragement, or a steady presence to her children. Her home was always open, welcoming not only her own kids but their friends as well-many of whom lovingly came to know her simply as "Mom."

Denise was also a deeply loving and proud grandmother. She cherished time spent with her grandchildren, whether sharing stories, laughter, or quietly sneaking them an extra treat. Her warmth, patience, and gentle humor left a lasting impression on each of them.

She had a deep love for animals and nature. Denise was rarely without one of her cats curled up nearby, and she took great pleasure in watching the deer that frequented her Rowe Road property, keeping close tabs on them from her backyard.

A lifelong Christian, Denise was a devoted member of Sandusky Presbyterian Church, where she found friendship, fellowship, and faith that sustained her throughout her life. Her kindness and compassion were evident to all who knew her.

Denise was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Rod Lien; her parents, Oscar and Mildred Ostertag; and her brothers, Jon Ostertag and Dale Ostertag. She is survived by daughter Danielle (Mike) Shellabarger; son Nick (Kaitlyn) Lien; five grandchildren, Stone, Freya, Odin, Milo and Beyla; sister-in-law Peg (Ralph) Stephenson; brother-in-law Cliff (Connie) Lien; brother-in-law Mark (Mary) Lien; sister-in-laws Beverly Harding and Sue Ostertag; nephews David (Meilissa) Ostertag, Donald Ostertag and Jayson Lien; nieces Jasmine Knaus, Roxanne Wendahl, Caleigh Smith and Cathryn Lien-Miller; Great-nephew Ben Lien; Great-nieces Allison Lien, Sydney and Rachel Ostertag, Kayleigh and Maya Wendahl, and Amira Ostertag.

Visitation will be from 4-8 P.M. on Friday at the Pomeroy Funeral Home in Lexington. Funeral services for Denise will be held at 11 A.M. on Saturday at the funeral home, with visiting from10-11 A.M. Saturday morning. Rev. Mark Morningstar will officiate. Interment will follow in the Downing Cemetery in Deckerville.

Memorials may be made to the Sandusky Presbyterian Church.