Erin Reneé Raderstorf

A light in the lives of all who were blessed to know her, Erin Raderstorf truly understood the secret to a life well lived. She was a constant source of strength, no matter the circumstances, and she was a shining example of kindness and hard work. Nothing brought Erin greater joy than spending time with her friends and family. Her unshakeable faith formed the foundation of all that she did, and she was always willing to go above and beyond to serve others. Forever loved, Erin will be deeply missed by those who knew her best.

The late 1970s were very influential years to be living in the United States of America. Tensions overseas led to a conflicted nation and a tumultuous political climate. Musical artists rocked the world while movies such as The Godfather were hugely popular, and technology was rapidly advancing, providing ways to make everyday life easier. During this exciting time, Gary and Patricia (Hokanson) Raderstorf of Kalamazoo, Michigan, were awaiting the arrival of their new baby. On March 29, 1977, they were overjoyed to welcome their daughter, Erin, into the world.

Growing up, Erin was an energetic and fun-loving little girl. She was raised in Kalamazoo alongside her two siblings, Angela and Eric. Erin’s father worked in trades and managed his own business while her mother worked as a surgical dental assistant. Throughout her childhood, Erin enjoyed spending time with her Grandpa Raderstorf at Donelle Lake in Cassopolis. The family took memorable trips to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Florida. Erin played softball as a girl and went on to play soccer in high school as well.

At the young age of nine, Erin was diagnosed with epilepsy. However, she never let her health struggles hold her back. In 10th grade, Erin had surgery on her brain at Mayo Clinic. As a result of the surgery, she had to relearn how to go about her everyday life, but she refused to let that obstacle get the better of her. Erin graduated from Hackett High School in 1995 as the salutatorian of her class. Instead of throwing a grad party, she chose to travel to California to visit loved ones.

Erin had many special people in her life. She was a beloved sister, daughter, and granddaughter, and she was thrilled to become an aunt to her niece, Lucy, and nephew, Noah. Erin shared much of her life with a man named Lindsey Cox, whom she was married to and loved so dearly. Not to be forgotten in the mosaic of Erin’s life was the moment she met the man she was happy to share her life with. His name was Jeffery Roelof, and the two first met through mutual friends. Jeff was immediately drawn to Erin’s great smile and positive outlook on life. One of the first things Erin said to Jeff was, “Don’t expect me to cook, because I don’t know how.” The couple enjoyed a first date at Louie's Trophy House. Throughout their three years together, Erin and Jeff loved spending quality time together. They could often be found doing yard work, as Erin took great pride in her home. Erin and Jeff also traveled to many locations around the world, including Dallas, New York, and Notre Dame.

Never one to sit still for long, Erin had many activities to keep her busy. She was a well-respected massage therapist, and throughout her career, she had many faithful clients. Erin was very involved in the Irish American club and actually won her first trip to Ireland in a raffle through the club. She loved every second of traveling to Ireland with her mother and grandmother. Erin was a member of the Y for many years, and she was a devoted attendee of water aerobics three times a week. She loved her sunflowers and always had a fresh bouquet of flowers in her home. Erin had a heart for animals. Her cats, Patches and Timmy, were more like members of her family.

When reflecting on the life of Erin Raderstorf, it is easy to see both her unwavering strength and her unconditional love for her family. She was generous with her time and her love, and she faced every challenge that came her way with a fierce spirit of determination. A beautiful woman from the inside out, Erin always made the most of each and every moment she was given. Her insatiable zest for life was an inspiration to all those around her. Though she is already greatly missed, Erin leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that her loved ones will forever hold near and dear to their hearts.

Erin Raderstorf of Kalamazoo, age 48, died on August 10, 2025. Erin was born March 29, 1977 in Kalamazoo to Gary Raderstorf and Patricia Hokanson. Erin was preceded in death by her father. Surviving are her Mother: Patricia Hokanson; Her partner: Jeffery Roelof; siblings: Angela Brightwell, Eric (Angela) Raderstorf; niece and nephew: Lucy Raderstorf, Noah Raderstorf.

Please join us for services on Thursday, August 14 at St. Thomas More Catholic Student Parish, 421 Monroe Street, Kalamazoo. Visitation will begin at 10 AM. The Rosary will be recited at 10:50 AM. Mass will be celebrated at 11 AM. A reception will follow in the church hall. Celebrate Erin’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on her dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Thomas More Catholic Student Parish.