Leilani Marie Stansfield

Leilani Marie Stansfield, affectionately known as Lonnie, passed away on November 2, 2025, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, at the age of 81. Born on February 22, 1944, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Lonnie grew up in Chicagoland, where she laid the foundations for a life defined by compassion, adventure, and an unwavering commitment to helping others.

A dedicated professional, Lonnie spent over 20 years as a registered nurse in the emergency room at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, where she served as a Level 1 trauma nurse. Her extensive education and training at the St. Bernard's School of Nursing equipped her with the skills to care for those in their most vulnerable moments. Even in retirement, Lonnie’s compassion never waned—she spent her summers volunteering as a nurse at Round Up River Ranch, a camp in Colorado for children with illnesses. Her kind-hearted nature and unwavering dedication to her patients were evident in every life she touched throughout her nursing career.

Lonnie's adventurous spirit was mirrored in her personal life as well. She and her husband of 60 years, Stanley Stansfield, cherished many memorable moments throughout their marriage, from raising their three children—Brian (Lisa) Stansfield, Maura (Wyatt) Lane, and Mark Stansfield—to exploring the great outdoors together. The couple shared a love for travel, spending winters in Colorado and retired there for a decade before moving to Kalamazoo Michigan, as well as visiting national parks and engaging in other outdoor activities. In her 40s, Lonnie bravely learned to ski, taking lessons from Olympic skiers, a testament to her adventurous soul.

An avid runner, Lonnie participated in marathons, staying active and inspiring those around her with her enthusiasm for health and fitness. Beyond her own pursuits, she was known for her generosity and readiness to lend a helping hand, always ready to uplift those in need. Lonnie was the embodiment of kindness and warmth, touching the lives of many with her selflessness and compassion.

Lonnie also had a deep love for her family, particularly her seven grandchildren, with whom she created cherished memories, reinforcing the bonds of love that will endure beyond her passing. She was the beloved sister of Eugene (Mary) LaBelle, Patricia (John) Orwin, Sharon (George) Mizuki, Maureen Fairman, and Michele (Robert) Ellis, and she is survived by many other family members and friends who will carry her memory forward.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Dorothy LaBelle, and siblings Deloris Waterfield and Marilyn LaBelle. Additionally, she was predeceased by her brothers-in-law, Ralph Fairman and Don Waterfield.

Lonnie’s legacy of kindness, courage, and love will remain alive in the hearts of her family and friends, who will carry forward the compassionate spirit she instilled in all those fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for the light she brought into the world.

Raise a Glass

Do not mourn me,

don't drown me in black cloth and quiet whispers.

Laugh loud, drink deep,

tell the stories that made me live.

Remember the bad jokes,

the nights that stretched into dawn,

the times we swore we'd never forget...

and don't.

I was here,

a life well lived.

I want something more than tears.

So raise a glass,

and dance a little,

let the wind take my name...

I'll be listening.

Do not mourn me,

Celebrate me