Barbara Schaafsma

"Entering His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise."

Barbara Lee (Norton) Schaafsma was released from her earthly body and ushered into the presence of her dear Lord and Savior on May 20, 2025.

Barbara was born to Almond and Audrey (Johnson) Norton on September 1, 1929 in Traverse City, MI. Graduating from Traverse City Central High. She went to Grand Rapids Baptist Bible Institute (now Cornerstone University), September 7, 1948, graduating June 6, 1950.

Barbara is survived by her children Susan (Brad) Evans, Scott and Mark, her grandchildren Breanna (Jeremy) Wood, Kirk (Julia) Evans, Darrin Evans, Kyle (Laura) Evans, Amy (Will) Schaafsma and David (Ashley) Schaafsma. She is also survived by her brother Michael (Sharon) Norton, her sister Rebecca Norton, her BIL John Reigling and her nieces and nephews Kim, Dan, Thom and Sarah.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Elizabeth and Celia, her son Michael, her DIL Brenda (Mark), the father of her children James Schaafsma, and many very special friends, who are with her now in heaven!

During her life she had several careers; her two most recent were at Upjohns (Assistant to the Head Chef), retiring at the age of 73. She then worked in retail for Marshall Field's (Hudson's to Macy's, she was there for these transitions).

She was a founding member of Berean Baptist Church (Portage), prior to Berean she was a member of Bethel Baptist Church (Kalamazoo)! At Berean she was a Sunday School teacher for the 4 year old class, the stories she told would make you smile, she loved those children and they loved her!

The last 10 years of her life was maybe her most favorite role, Great Gram! She has 4 great grandchildren and 3 step great grandchildren: Kaley, Delaney, Jojo, Cooper (Breanna/Jeremy), Selma, Fenwick and Clara (David/Ashley).

Over the years she had many fur babies too, she loved her pet dogs, her favorite breed being Britany Spaniels!

Barbara's Celebration of Life will be on June 2, 2025 at Berean Baptist Church, 7813 S. 12th St. Portage, MI 49024 at 11:00 am. A Graveside Service will be June 3, 2025 at Maple Grove Cemetery, 2455 Co Rd. 633 Grawn, MI 49637 at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Meals on Wheels of Kalamazoo Michigan, Breakthrought1d.org, or the Kalamazoo Animal Rescue.