Betty Georgeau

Betty J. Georgeau, age 75, of Kalamazoo, MI died on November 16, 2016."Death has No Sting for a Life Well-Lived" As much, as often, and wherever she could, Betty (Burkey) Georgeau gracefully did as much good throughout her life. She was a naturally compassionate, caring, giving woman, earning her Registered Nursing degree from Bronson School of Nursing and devoted much of her working life to the profession, including many years with Bronson Hospital working in pediatrics, intensive care and other specialties, and rounding out her career 14 years with the American Red Cross. She was quick to offer the shelter and comfort of her home to a various assortment of displaced, transitional relatives, friends and sometimes mere acquaintances. Betty was born November 8, 1941, to Floyd and Helen (Eash) Burkey of Hastings. She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister, Barbara Couch in 2016, a son-in-law, Timothy Mulder in 2001 and a niece, Karla (Karrar) Sota in 1997. She was a Kalamazoo resident most of her adult life and died at home, encircled by her loving family, a few days after her 75th birthday. She battled years against Multiple Sclerosis, with unfailing determination and courage, providing an inspiring example of how to make the most of the life you are given. Unfailingly kind, generous and optimistic, she seldom complained about the sting of life's slings and arrows. Her approach was to remind those around her to appreciate what was good in life. And her ready smile showed an ability to appreciate the humorous side of things. Betty loved to read, and kept informed about world affairs. She nurtured beautiful flowers, both at home and at the family cottage at Hagar Shores near Lake Michigan. She enjoyed sailing with her husband and shared many an impromptu adventure with him, whether motorcycle riding, car racing or starting and growing small businesses. She is survived by her devoted husband of 54 years, Phillip Georgeau; daughters, Lisa Mulder of Plainwell and Vicki Georgeau (Omar Towghi) of Portage; grandchildren, Tyler and Thomas Mulder and Trevor and Isabel Towghi; Great-grandson, Roland Mulder, sisters, Marian Burkey and Linda (Al) Ridderbos; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and numerous dear friends from near and far. To laugh often and much, to earn the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children, to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others, to leave the world a bit better, to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived, This is the poet's definition and Betty's of success and a life well lived. A service celebrating Betty's life will be held at the People's Church, 1758 N. 10th Street, Kalamazoo on Saturday, December 17, 2016, at 1:00 o'clock. Family and friends may meet the family after the service. Private burial ceremony will take place at a later date. Please visit Betty's personalized webpage for online guestbook or to share a memory. Arrangements by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick St. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the People's Church or the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.