Mary Weaver

Died peacefully in the arms of her family on April 26, 2017 in Kalamazoo, Michigan at the age of 87. Mary Lou is survived by her children, Julie Bonnette (Eric Zonyk) of Kalamazoo, Michigan and Matthew Weaver of Grand Rapids, Michigan, grandchildren Samuel Bonnette (Catherine) of Northbrook, Illinois, Olivia and Madeline Weaver of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Preceding her in death were her parents, her brothers Lloyd and David Kaechele, sister Margaret Anne Kaechele Terry, and daughter-in-law Ingrid Weaver. Mary Lou was born on April 9, 1930 in Allegan, Michigan to Arthur and Florence Voorhorst Kaechele. She graduated from Allegan High School in 1948. She attended Michigan State University and graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in Education. She went on to earn two Master's degrees in Reading from WMU. She married Basil Weaver Jr. in 1951 and loved being an Army wife in Alaska. Together they brought two children into the world. When Julie and Matt were school age, Mary Lou and Basil divorced. She then began her teaching positions with Plainwell Community Schools, a career which spanned over 30 years. She spent most of her life in Plainwell, Michigan and later at Parkview Hills in Kalamazoo. In retirement, she especially enjoyed wintering in Bradenton, Florida. She loved visiting art shows, listening to guest lecturers, attending jazz concerts, and going to the beach with her friends. She also traveled extensively and treasured her favorite trips to Spain and Greece. She was an avid reader who wasn't afraid to lay her book down and go share a beer at a moment's notice. To her children, grandchildren and friends she was loving, devoted, witty and fun. They were blessed to have her for 87 healthy years. Her smile will be forever missed. A celebration of Mary Lou's life is scheduled for Saturday, May 13, 2017 at Parkview Hills Club House. Friends are welcome to gather from 6:00 8:00 P.M. to reminisce, laugh, and raise a glass to an amazing lady. Mary Lou loved all dogs, especially her granddogs. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the SPCA at 6955 W Kl Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49009. Condolences can be sent to Avink Funeral Home (www.avinkcremation.com)