Zarada Olive Lichte

Zarada Olive Lichte, 93, of Lansing, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home on August 14, 2026, shortly after her diagnosis of leukemia. Zarada was born March 24, 1933, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, to Daniel and Helen Gunter. She was their only child.

Zarada graduated in 1951 from Eastern High School. She began her first job working at Kresge Five and Dime in downtown Lansing. From there she worked at Michigan Miller’s Insurance Company, AAA Insurance Company, WJIM Radio, and finally 13 years at Diamond Reo Motor Plant where she worked until they closed their doors in 1975.

Zarada married Delbert Harry Lichte on September 19, 1953, in Lansing, Michigan. They were married for 65 years before Delbert’s death in 2018. Zarada loved children, but sadly, she and Del were never able to have children of their own. As a result, Zarada and Del opened their heart and home to, and loved all children like they were their own.

During the 1990’s Zarada, who always had a talent for drawing, pursued her passion for art. She began taking classes in painting. For several years she showcased her paintings at the Ingham County Fair selling many of her canvases. She gifted her family and friends with a painting or two. In addition to painting, Zarada loved crafting. She was always embracing new craft projects. She joined The Happy Hookers crochet club meeting weekly at the senior center. Zarada was in her glory surrounded by paint, beads, yarn and glitter. After their retirement, Zarada and Delbert enjoyed traveling with their camper. For fourteen years they spent every winter in Florida, often heading out west before returning home to Michigan.

Zarada never left her house without her hair, nails and makeup done. She was a beautiful lady inside and out. Her life was rooted in her family and friends, of which she had many, and who will miss her beyond measure.

After Delbert’s passing, she found community and purpose through Riverview Church in Holt, Michigan. A celebration of life for Zarada Lichte will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 14, 2026, followed by a small luncheon, at Riverview Church, 3585 E. Willoughby Rd., Holt, Michigan 48842.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Riverview Church.

“Don’t be sad, be happy. I had a good life.”

Arrangements are by the Estes-Leadley Holt/Delhi Chapel.