Mary Lou Birkenmeyer

Mary Lou Birkenmeyer, beloved wife and mother, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 12, 2016 at 90 years of age. She is survived by her husband of 68 years, Robert, who was her high school sweetheart, her children and their spouses, David (Ann) Birkenmeyer, Larry (Apri) Birkenmeyer and Lisa (Bob) Kartz. There are also 6 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren, who she treasured. Mary Lou and Robert also had 2 honorary AFS children, David Cabatan from the Philippines and Sebmen Guvenez from Turkey who became part of the family. Mary Lou was a long time member of PEO. She also enjoyed spending time with family and friends, traveling the world, camping, motorhoming, reading, needlework and playing piano. After living in Kalamazoo and Galesburg for 45 years Mary Lou and Robert moved to Ogden, Utah in 1993 so they could more easily explore their favorite areas of the US, the mountain and desert country of the American Southwest. During their 16 year stay in Utah they made many close friends and it was with mixed feelings that they moved back to Kalamazoo in 2009 to be near family and old friends and to enjoy their lives at Friendship Village. Mary Lou was active in the Kitchen Band, Choral Group, Knitting group and played piano for Village events. There will be a memorial service in the Kiva at Friendship Village on Sunday, October 2 at 1pm. where family and friends can share their happy memories and celebrate Mary Lou's 90 years of life.