Elizabeth M. Cascaden

Elizabeth M. Cascaden, age 77, of Northville, passed away on August 19, 2024. Born on August 5, 1947, in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, she was the beloved daughter of Arthur B. and Helen E. (Farrington) Gillette. Elizabeth was united in marriage to John P. Crotteau for over 17 years until his death in 2015.

Liz, as she was known, graduated from W.F. Herman Secondary School in Windsor, Canada and continued her education at the University of Windsor. After starting her family, Liz embarked on a career in the dental industry. She dedicated 40 years to her profession, and was the initiator for the annual Women in Dentistry Expo celebrating women in the field.  She eventually retired in 2020 as the sales and marketing director for a dental laboratory.

A long-time resident of Ann Arbor, Liz and her husband John were devoted University of Michigan football fans, holding season tickets and relishing the camaraderie of tailgating before the games. Her vibrant and generous spirit was evident in her love for thrifting, shopping, and, most of all, gardening. Liz meticulously designed her “Garden of Weeden,” which was featured in the Northville Garden Walk, with lilacs being her favorite flower. She also cherished her time spent at her cottage in Canada, where she could unwind and enjoy swimming and evening fires by the lake.

Known for her culinary skills, Liz delighted family and friends with her delicious roast beef and Yorkshire pudding. Her social nature led her to attend local festivals and take day trips with her wide circle of friends. A creative soul, she found joy in repurposing furniture discovered on her thrifting adventures. Liz’s leadership qualities shone through as she served as President of the Kingsmill Board of Directors. She was a generous, delightful, and treasured friend who will be profoundly missed.

Elizabeth’s vivacious personality and boundless love made her a remarkable daughter, mother, and grandmother. She is survived by her children, Kelly (the late Allen) Purchis, Susanne (Colin) Miltimore, Jason (Kristy Salyers) Cascaden, and Rebecca (Benjamin Young) Cascaden; her grandchildren, Kendrix Lauzon, Shawna Cascaden, Allen Purchis, Jason Purchis, Jacob Purchis, and Adeline Young; her niece, Roxanne (David Ratko) Jubenville; and her cousins, Helen Greig and Mary Landstrom. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Patrick Gillette, her husband John Crotteau, her son-in-law Allen Purchis and her nephew Lewis Jubenville.

A celebration of Elizabeth’s life will be held on Sunday, September 15 from Noon until 4:00 p.m. with a service beginning at 3:00 p.m. at the Woods Condominium Clubhouse, 18238 University Park Drive, Livonia, Michigan 48152.

Memorial contributions would be appreciated to the Northville Rotary Foundation , 143 Cadycentre #109, Northville, Michigan 48167.