Sara Woodruff - Celebration of Life

We are raising funds to put on a beautiful celebration of life party in Sara Woodruff's honor. We would love to lift any financial burden from her family during this really difficult time. Any funds left over will be put towards a new scholarship being created in Sara's honor.

Below is the latest update from the family -

Surrounded by family, Sara Vivian Woodruff passed away on Friday, August 13th, 2021 at 1:11PM.

Sara graduated from Kendall College of Art and Design with a degree in graphic design. She would go on to work at firms in the Saginaw area, San Francisco, and even Costa Rica. In 2012 Sara became the Creative Director and design lead at Lake Effect and Associates – a company she helped to get up and running. But those titles don’t come close to defining Sara’s role, her importance, or her contributions. Sara was a leader, although she would never openly admit it. She led by example, always. Her work ethic and determination was impossible to ignore. Sara was a passionate combination of left and right brain. Wit and Intelligence. Function and aesthetic. A lovable formula that won over clients and coworkers alike and often blurred the line between business and friendship. Laughter was often a product of working with Sara. She seemed to always have a well-timed one-liner ready to hurl out and make her co-workers laugh.

Sara was often able to combine her passion for outdoor recreation and design into one as she worked with land conservancies, nature preserves, and other non-profit organizations. Sara worked with the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, Leelanau Conservancy, Little Traverse Conservancy, and Heart of the Lakes. In addition to her work, Sara also volunteered her time and talents for several years to the Fresh Coast Film Festival which celebrates the water rich environment and resilient spirit of the Great Lakes and Upper Midwest. This year Sara was the recipient of the Conservation Hero Award and was recognized for all her contributions being a part of the preservation of Michigan's beautiful resources.

Sara’s greatest joy in life was being a big sister! It was rare to see Sara without a sibling far off. The pride she took in each of her siblings was unmatched. The unique and special relationship she had with each sister and brother was beautiful, and you could feel her love for them a mile away. She was so excited when she became an aunt for the first time and that excitement grew as more nieces and nephews joined the family and there were more of them to spoil and love on!

A note from Sara:

In early 2020, Sara moved in with her Uncle Jim and Aunt Suzie. This allowed Sara to be closer to her family and friends, and a space where she could be supported and cared for. Sara was forever grateful for this, including the countless meals Aunt Suzie cooked, and the days her Uncle Jim spent working on her camper to have it ready for her to take on adventures.

In early 2021, Sara then moved in with her brother and sister-in-law, Travis and Kristin. She was so motivated and excited to get to create a space all her own, and to be able to do it alongside her brother was such a joy for Sara. It gave her so much hope and drive being able to be in her element again and be the creative design force that she was. Travis, amongst other friends and family, worked very hard to make Sara’s vision come to life and transform their basement into a cozy chic space that Sara was so proud of. It was so special for Sara to be at home in the space they created together with all her friends and family (and Lou) able to be with her.

After Sara’s diagnosis, she continued to keep her spirits high by traveling. Sara went to Florida with her sisters Laura and Hannah, and friend Melissa. During this trip, Sara was able to swim with and touch a manatee (Sara has always loved them). Sara also went to Las Vegas with her friend Cole. While in Vegas, Cole and Sara rode the high roller, ate squid, sea urchins, and shrimp buns just to name a few. Sara also spent this last fourth of July on Drummond Island, her childhood vacation spot. Sara was able to spend time with all of her family, explore trails and enjoy the peace and beauty that the island offers.

Sara had a sibling’s weekend scheduled at the end of August, where she planned to relax with her brothers and sisters and cook for everyone. Sara was always the first to take care of her siblings but was so proud to see how they all came together to take care of her. Sara wanted to thank her siblings for all becoming her personal nurses and making sure she was always the priority.

Sara wanted to thank each and every person who cared so deeply for her and continued to show your support and love throughout her journey.

In true Sara fashion, she continued to stay strong for all of her family until the very end. We will be forever indebted to Sara for helping to show us what it means to be a selfless, strong, and courageous person.

Sara requested to have an intimate family memorial at her home, however there will be a larger gathering for all family and friends to join and celebrate the life that Sara had. Further details will be posted soon.