Barbara Couch

Barbara Couch, age 77, of Gull Lake, MI, having lived a long, full life, Barbara Ann (Burkey) Couch died on June 29, 2016 at Rose Arbor Hospice with her loving family by her side. Barbara graduated from Hastings High School with the class of 1956. Barbara married the love of her life, Everett L. Couch on November 8,1958 and were married for 57 years. Barbara and Everett lived in the Gull Lake community for many years with their three children. Barbara loved spending time with her family and took great pride in her children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Barbara was a woman of many interests and even greater talents; always ready to try something new. Throughout her life she volunteered with many organizations including:Girl Scouts of America, Borgess Service League and Ladies of the Lake. Barbara was a life long learner of history, had an avid passion for travel, scrapbooks and was a stellar energy conservationist. Barbara enjoyed golfing with the Wild Bunch for 25 years at Gull Lake View Golf course. Barbara retired from Michigan State University at Kellogg Biological Station in 2002. Barbara will be remembered most fondly for her enduring love for theatre, amazing friendships, making the world's best apple pie, her sense of humor and fashion. She was one classy lady. Barbara is preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Helen (Eash) Burkey of Hastings, MI. Barbara leaves behind to cherish her memory, her husband, Everett, her adult children, Julie Ferguson (Delroy), Jackie Redmond (Walter) and Patrick Couch,all from the Gull Lake area;five grandchildren,Sara,Caleb, Ross, Hannah, Rachael and two great grandchildren; three sisters Marian (Burkey) Karrar, Betty Georgeau (Phil) and Linda Ridderbos (Al) and many nieces and nephews. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family asks you make a memorial contribution in Barbara's honor to Rose Arbor Hospice Residence, 5473 Croyden Ave., Kalamazoo, MI 49009. After Glow I'd like the memory of me To be a happy one. I'd like to leave an afterglow Of smiles when day is done. I'd like to leave an echo Whispering softly down the ways, Of happy times, and laughing times And bright and sunny days. I'd like the tears of those who grieve To dry before the sun Of happy memories I leave Behind when day is done. Avink Funeral Home