Big Rapids, Michigan - Leah McKenzie Simontal, of Big Rapids passed away on Friday February 17, 2017 at her home with family by her side. She was 71.

Leah was born originally as Linda Katke, May 25, 1945, in Rodney, Michigan to Peter and Gladys Katke. In 1994 she legally changed her name to Leah. She grew up on a farm in the Rodney area. Leah attended Ferris State University and then received a BA in Secondary Education and a Master's degree in Counseling from Central Michigan University. She worked for Community Mental Health agencies in Big Rapids as well as in White Cloud. Following that, she had a private psychotherapy practice in the Big Rapids area for over 30 years. Leah was also a spiritual director, serving many clergy and others in the Big Rapids and Grand Rapids area. In 1995, she was ordained as an Interfaith Minister at the All Faith Seminary in New York City and took seriously the task of doing whatever she could to build bridges between religions. Leah had a love for learning and of grounded spiritual growth, which she pursued throughout her life. She also assisted many others in their spiritual growth by teaching meditation and other classes in spiritual development. Leah affected hundreds of clients, family and friends with her belief in self-accountability and her compassionate heart.

Leah is survived by her two children, Jennifer Serafin (Bill Bell) of Rhode Island and Peter (Lucinda, whom she considered another daughter) Ruttan of Rodney, MI; 12 grandchildren, Leah Csernai, Kara Csernai, Maya Serafin, Lucas Serafin, Jacob Serafin, Elizabeth Bucholz, Madeline Bucholz, Jessica (Cory) Snyder, Peter Katke Ruttan, Jerod Bell, Jessica Bell and Jeremy Bell; great-grandchild, Hayden Snyder; and many other loving family members and friends.

At her request, cremation has taken place. An interfaith memorial service will be held on Monday, February 20, 2017 at 11 a.m. at the United Church in Big Rapids. This service will include what Leah loved, readings, prayers and music from many religious traditions. Visitation with the family will be available one hour prior to the service at the church. A luncheon will be served after the service at Peter and Lucinda's home. Information and directions on the luncheon will be available at the conclusion of the service.

Memorial contributions may be directed to FINCA, The Foundation for International Community Assistance.

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