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Barbara Buell

December 28, 1940 - March 17, 2016
Kalamazoo, MI

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Contributions


At the family's request memorial contributions are to be made to those listed below. Please forward payment directly to the memorial of your choice.

West Michigan Cancer Center
200 North Park Street
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
(269) 382-2500
Driving Directions
Web Site

Flowers


Below is the contact information for a florist recommended by the funeral home.

Plainwell Flowers
117 S. Main
Plainwell, MI 49080
(269) 685-8055
Driving Directions
Web Site

River Rose
(269) 692-3951

Life Story / Obituary


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With ways all her own, Barbara Buell was a joy to know and love. She gave of her time and talents, and as a mother she was just as loving and caring. Ever nurturing, Barbara found much contentment and happiness in her family whom she held most dear.

Barbara’s story began in the year 1940 as the introduction of many new forms of entertainment made for enjoyable times. The sounds of Glenn Miller and Bing Crosby filled the airwaves along with jazz, while some of the best movies made their debut. With World War II well underway overseas, America’s involvement was inevitable, and the first peacetime draft was put into place. It allowed the U.S. to gear up for impending war which fueled the economy after years of repression during the Great Depression. Amidst these ever changing times, Harley and Marie (Leonard) Pierman found much to be thankful for when on December 28, 1940 they were ready to begin the New Year with renewed hope as they welcomed the blessed birth of their little girl, Barbara, born in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Young Barbara and her family made their home nestled along the country roads in the small community of Climax-Scott’s, Michigan. Her father worked as a milkman delivering milk daily to the surrounding areas while her mother remained at home as a homemaker and took in laundry for others. Growing up in the country offered much adventure for a young girl like Barbara. She spent as much time outdoors as she could, and from her earliest beginnings she loved the fresh open spaces and all it had to offer. During her youth Barbara had a close relationship with her Uncle Ray who doted on her and taught her much. Through the years, whenever Barbara spoke of her uncle or recalled wonderful times shared with him, a smile grew across her face with fond recollection. Always close to her family, as a child she was most content and comfortable in their presence.

Barbara attended the Climax-Scotts schools. After completing the 11th grade, she went on to attend trade school where she graduated from the food program. Before long, Barbara was introduced to her one and only love, Carl Marion Buell through his sister, Ruth Ann. Barbara and Carl shared much in common and together they loved being outdoors enjoying many activities outside. After dating for a time, the couple sealed their love in marriage on August 30, 1968 when they became husband and wife in a small ceremony which took place in nearby Otsego, Michigan.

Family continued to mean everything to Barbara, especially when she and Carl began a family of their own with the welcomed births of two children, Kim and Mike. A fun loving and caring mother, Barbara was generous and nurturing in all ways. As a family they were always together, and wherever Barbara was, her loving family could always be found by her side or nearby. Even when she acquired a little, poodle puppy named Duke for her son, he was always with her. Over the years great times were treasured on several family getaways, picnics, and other activities. She encouraged her children in their endeavors and loved with an unconditional, devoted love. She also taught her children to appreciate the outdoors and to enjoy the beauty around them.

Barbara cherished being there for her family. She made a good home for Carl and their children, and she would not have wanted it any other way. Dedicated in everything she did, Barbara held fast to her faith. Through her involvement with the Mormon Missionaries, Barbara devoted much time making many hats and scarves she donated to the ministry.

Always caring and ever giving, Barbara lived with a quiet faith. Her devotion to those she held most dear was without end, and her gracious heart knew no bounds. For these things and so much more, Barbara will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.

Barbara J. Buell passed away on Thursday, March 17, 2016 at the age of 75. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her brother Harley Pierman. She is survived by her sister Jackie & (Larry) Beck, two children, Kim and Mike, 2 grandsons Donald & Carl Smith, a great grandson Aries Smith and several nieces and nephews. A memorial service for Barbara will be held at a later date.

Please visit Barbara’s webpage at www.lifestorynet.com where you can sign her online guestbook and share a favorite memory and/or photo with her family. Barbara’s family is being assisted by the Life Story Funeral Home, 120 S. Woodhams, Plainwell, MI (269-685-5881).

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