Colleen R. Squires

Reverend Colleen Ruth Squires
In Loving Memory of Reverend Colleen Ruth Squires (née Fitzpatrick)
March 16, 1963 - October 23, 2024
Reverend Colleen Ruth Squires passed away unexpectedly on October 23, 2024, at her home in Grand Rapids, Michigan, at the age of 61. Her sudden passing from a heart attack has left an indelible void in the hearts of all who knew her. Born on March 16, 1963, in Woodbridge, New Jersey, Colleen was a beacon of light, love, and laughter to her family, friends, and congregants.
Colleen was the beloved daughter of Elizabeth Louise Fitzpatrick and Robert Anthony Fitzpatrick. She grew up alongside her cherished siblings, sister Elizabeth Golden and brother Bob Fitzpatrick, in Woodbridge, New Jersey. Her family roots were deep, with a profound influence from her dear Aunt Ruth and Uncle Neil Stoddard, who preceded her in death.
She married her partner of 37 years, Linda Squires on May 26, 2004 in Medford, Massachusetts, when Massachusetts became the first state for marriage equality. Colleen leaves behind her devoted wife Linda Squires, her sister Elizabeth (Fitzpatrick)Golden, and her brother Robert Fitzpatrick (Bob), along with his wife Barbara Fitzpatrick. She was also a beloved aunt to her niece Christine Golden and her partner Marc Bellinger and nephew Robert Golden and his partner Faith Stearns, cousin Kathy Schmidt and her husband Richard Schmidt, and her besties Catherine Corliss, Jennifer A'Hearn and Ross Hoffman who were family to her, as well as Colleen's brothers and sisters in law, Art Squires and Barb Squires, Mark Squires and Nancy Squires.

Colleen's educational journey began at Livingston College at Rutgers University, where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Art. Her passion for spirituality and service led her to obtain a Master's in Divinity from Andover Newton Theological Seminary in Newton, Massachusetts in 2009. Her calling to spiritual leadership was fulfilled when she was ordained as a Unitarian Universalist minister in 2012. She served with dedication, grace, joy, and honor at All Souls Community Church of West Michigan in Grand Rapids, touching countless lives with her compassion and wisdom.
Before her ministry, Colleen worked as an assistant to Alan Steere, MD, at Massachusetts General Hospital. Her career was marked by her articulate communication, organizational skills, and her distinctive ability to connect with people.
Colleen was an active contributor to the Ethics and Religion Panel for MLIVE and the The Rapidian, lending her insightful and reflective voice to complex conversations. Under her guidance, All Souls Community Church of West Michigan started a Black Lives Matter monthly vigil in 2015 which continues to this day, with other churches in the area. Her hobbies were as diverse and vibrant as her personality; she was a talented artist, love doing home projects, and enjoyed playing games.
Those who knew Colleen remember her as a smart, funny, fun, and lovable individual. She was a compassionate listener and a gifted storyteller, always ready to share a tale that could elicit laughter or provoke thought. Her presence was a blessing, marked by a genuine kindness and an indomitable spirit.
A celebration of Colleen's life will be held at All Souls Community Church of West Michigan, 2727 Michigan Ave., NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506, on December 8, 2024, at 3 PM. Congregation, friends, family, and all whose lives Colleen touched are invited to honor her memory.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to All Souls Community Church of West Michigan in Reverend Colleen Squires' name, ensuring that her legacy of love and service endures.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the All Souls Community Congregation of West Michigan for their unwavering support and for enriching Colleen's life with boundless joy and purpose. Colleen's years as minister at All Souls Church of West Michigan were the happiest years of her life. She had a wonderful life as a result. Colleen's spirit will forever be interwoven with the lives of those she touched, and her memory will continue to inspire and uplift.
Rest in peace, dear Colleen. Your light shines on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know you.

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