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Barbara Rietkerk

May 6, 2022
Kalamazoo, MI

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Rietkerk, Barbara R. 7/4/1932 - 5/6/2022 Kalamazoo Barbara Rose RietKerk was born, the firecracker she was, on the Fourth of July 1932 and passed peacefully in her home the morning of May 6, 2022. She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Robert Eugene RietKerk (December 15, 2020), whom she fondly called "Bobbie." February of 2021 would have marked their 70th wedding anniversary. Though she was dearly loved by so many, losing Bob was devastating; may we all take comfort in knowing that she is now with him, and he is no longer "waitin' on a woman." Barb lived a selfless life, raising their five children, Stephen (Yvonne) RietKerk, Paula (Randy) Grabach, Robin RietKerk, Bret (Edith) RietKerk, and Julie (Joel) Solomon. She and Bob were not only wonderful parents, but doting grandparents to their many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by siblings Kenneth Howe, David Howe, and Joanne Holmes. It is with heavy, but grateful hearts that we remember this beautiful woman and the many lives she changed for the better. She is as giving and generous now as she was in life; It was her wish that in lieu of flowers, you might consider donating to Centrica Care Navigators, 7100 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo, MI 49009. A graveside service for Robert and Barbara RietKerk will be held Sunday June 12 at 2:00 p.m. at Alamo Center Cemetery, N. 6th Street, Kalamazoo followed by a 3:00 p.m. luncheon at Cooper Cafe, 7759 Douglas Avenue, Kalamazoo. To leave an online condolence, please visit https://www.langelands.com