Michele Kay McCracken

Michele was born on August 22, 1948 in Rockford, Illinois to Claude and Kathryn Johnson. When Michele was 7, she was adopted by Russell Rumelhagen whom her widowed mother married.

Michele attended elementary through high school in Rockford. She graduated from Auburn High School in 1966. Michele attended Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado.

Michele married John "Rudi" McCracken on May 13, 1972. They cared for and supported each other until his passing in 2009.

Michele worked at Neodata, Bestop, and MT Tech throughout her career. Her warm, funny personality and professionalism made her a valued employee.

In 2002, Michele converted to Catholicism. She devoted the remainder of her life learning about and living her faith. She loved her church family very much.

Michele was a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan. She was so excited when they won The World Series in 2016 and when she met her all-time favorite Cubs, Ernie Banks and Ryne Sandberg.

Michele's passion for those in need and the marginalized led her to volunteer in many organizations in her community. She started by volunteering at St. John's Food Bank and then volunteered at organizations serving the homeless. Michele cared deeply for the homeless and fulfilled her lifelong dream of working with them. She volunteered at HOPE, Safe Haven and Agape. She also volunteered for many years with Meals of Mercy at her parish, St. Francis of Assisi.

Michele never met a stranger! She would stop to talk to and help anyone she thought could use a friend. She spent countless hours coordinating care for the homeless and those in need. Michele enjoyed every conversation she had whether in person or by phone. No matter her health, Michele strove to take care of everyone she came in contact with including family, friends and caregivers. Her laughter, quick wit, smile, and compassion will always be remembered.

Michele was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, a nephew, aunts, uncles, the love of her life Rudi and her beloved fur child Lacey Mae.

Michele is survived by her 3 siblings, Rick, Lisa and Rohn, (Diana). She is also survived by her nephews Nathan and Russell, her niece Lizzy, great niece Gabby, and her sister in love Eileen. Michele is also survived by numerous cousins and dear friends.

We will miss our dear Michele and carry her in our hearts forever.

Mass of the Christian Burial will be held at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 3791 Pike Road in Longmont, Colorado on Saturday, April 22nd at 10:00 a.m.

A reception will be held at the church following the service. The Interment Service will be held at 1:30 at Mountain View Memorial Park, 3016 Kalmia Avenue, Boulder, Colorado 80301.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.cristmortuary.com for the McCracken family.