Katherine N Crosby

Kate Crosby, cherished daughter, sister, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on September 18, 2025, in Grand Haven. Born in Grand Rapids on September 16, 1989, precisely one day before her due date, she was the beloved daughter of Gary Crosby II and Kristy Zeluff. Kate will live on in all our hearts, in the warmth, humor and love she shared so generously with her family and friends.

A proud 2007 graduate of Portage Northern High School and the Kalamazoo Area Math and Science Center, Kate furthered her education at the University of Michigan and the University of South Carolina, laying the foundation for a successful career as a curator of exhibits at the Tri Cities Museum, where she devoted the last six years of her professional life. Kate was passionate about equitable representation in the history she helped bring alive for the Grand Haven area residents.

More mature than her parents by the age of 11, Kate was known for her dark and glorious sense of humor, and an unwavering willingness to help, support, and protect those around her. Her loyalty and dedication made her an amazing daughter, granddaughter, niece, cousin, sister and friend, always ready to lend a listening ear or perfectly timed baked goods. Kate had a gift for seeing what was needed around her and just doing it,without fuss or fanfare.

In her personal life, she found immense joy in the company of her family, relishing brunches with her mom, stepdad and siblings, or afternoons on the boat with her dad and stepmom. Kate’s heart of hearts belonged to her beloved dogs, Stella and Finnegan, who brought her constant joy and amusement, while relieving her of all her disposable income.

Kate is survived by her loving parents, Gary (Cheryl) Crosby IIof Delton and Kristy (Mike) Zeluff of Kalamazoo; her siblings, Cody Crosby of Muskegon, Alexi (Thomas) Scheffert of Portage, Zoe Zeluff, and Tobin Zeluff, both of Lansing; her cherished grandparents, Gary and Jane Crosby of Alto and Max and Phyllis Miner of Allegan; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Friends may gather with Kate’s family for a reading of her obituary at 4:00 P.M., Monday, September 22, 2025, followed by a time of fellowship until 6:00 P.M., at the Winkel Funeral Home, Otsego. 

A luncheon for family and friends will follow at the Otsego VFW hall from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M.

Contributions in memory of Kate may be directed to ASPCA or to the Tri Cities Museum.

Messages of condolences may be posted at www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.