Pamela Funk

All who knew Pamela Funk would agree that she was an extraordinary woman to know and love. She went out of her way to help others in any way she could, touching the lives of so many in the process. Pam was loving mother if ever there was one, but she treasured her role as a grandmother more than anything else. Although life wasn’t without times of trial for her, she faced whatever came her with a quiet strength and a graceful courage that were an inspiration to all who were near. Life will never be the same without Pam here, but she leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that her loved ones will forever hold near and dear to their hearts.

As the 1950s dawned in America, we were poised for greatness. With the challenges of the Great Depression and the trials of WWII behind us, we were more than ready to for brighter days. Brown versus the Board of Education and Rosa Parks refusing to give up her seat on an Alabama bus ignited the flame that became the civil rights movement while I Love Lucy and Elvis Presley became part of the cultural fabric of this decade. Amidst this exciting time was a time of great anticipation in the lives of John Nelson and Cora Louise Morris as they were eagerly awaiting the birth of their new baby as November appeared on the horizon in 1950. The big day finally arrived when the baby girl they named Pamela drew her first breath on November 4th. Born in Allegan, Michigan, she was the fifth of nine children in her family. As a teen she worked in the kitchen at Allegan General Hospital. Pam attended local schools and graduated from Allegan High School in 1969.

There was nothing of greater importance in Pam’s life than her loved ones. Life was forever changed for her when she met and later married Tom Schweikert. Together they were blessed with the births of two children, Cindy and Cammy. Later, she married Don Funk, and she treasured every moment spent with her family. Later in life Pam was thrilled to become a grandmother to four amazing grandchildren. The best days of her life were always days spent with her family all gathered together. Pam loved the joy and togetherness of all holidays, and she looked forward to their family traditions like making corn flake wreaths, fudge, and cheeseballs. Another favorite activity was volunteering at her grandchildren’s schools.

Throughout her life Pam was one to keep busy. She spent time working outside of the home including at Friedlands and Tru Heat, which were both located in Allegan. Pam also worked at Domestic Violence Escape For Men, Women & Children (Dove) in Ironwood. She continued working there until her health no longer allowed. With a love for the outdoors, Pam enjoyed planting flowers, and she also liked sewing. Much of her time was spent helping anyone who was sick or anyone in need.

When reflecting on the life of Pamela Funk, it is easy to see that she was beautiful on the inside and out. She had a great sense of humor and a zest for life that was contagious to all who were near. In her own life, Pam faced both life and death with great courage, and her willingness to help others was unmatched. Deeply devoted to her family, her loved ones were her greatest source of pride and joy. Dearly loved, Pam will be forever missed.

Pam will be remembered on June 3rd at Hartman Conference Center in Allegan MI from 1-4pm. Anyone who loved or cared for Pam is invited. Location of Hartman Conference Center: 690 E. Eastern Avenue. Memorial Donations to honor Pam: American Cancer Society, Wings of Hope Hospice.