Bernadine Clinard

Bernadine Elaine Clinard passed away peacefully at the Willows of East Lansing on December 26th after a very long and happy life. She was 96 years old. Bernadine was born December 3, 1921, to the late Myrtle and Earl Wright of Kalamazoo. Bernadine spent many years living in Kalamazoo, where she raised her family of four children. Bernie enjoyed sewing, reading and decorating her home for the family. Bernie had a passion for shopping as was evidenced by her great sense of style. She knew what she liked and always looked her best. Bernadine and her husband, Harley, also enjoyed traveling. They lived in Adidas Ababa Ethiopia for Harley's work for a short period of time. In 2014 Bernadine lost her husband, Harley Clinard Jr. They had survived World War II and had spent 71 years together. Shortly thereafter, her beloved younger daughter, Judy (Terry) Bussema of Mattawan passed away suddenly. Bernadine is survived by three children, Gerrie Clinard of Merritt Island, FL, Harley (Lynn) Clinard Ill of Kalamazoo, and Roger (Joanne) Clinard of Lansing. As shown by the pictures on her wall, she has eleven grandchildren to be proud of, Kim Bishop, Michele (Dennis) Beaugrand, Rob (Jennifer) Caro, Teresa Caro, Stephen (Cindy) Caro, Martin (Becky) Clinard, Sarah (Mike) Schafer, Jacob (Heidi) Clinard, Rachel (Robert) Seidel, Elaine (John) Bussema, and Billy (Shannon) Bussema. Along with this are twenty-three great-grandchildren and one greatgreat-grandchild. Bernadine is also survived by one sister, Gerrie Gest of Georgia. She is preceded in death by her brothers, Earl and Dick and sisters, Gwen and Carol. Friends may visit with the family from 12-1p.m. on Friday, January 5, 2018 at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Westside Chapel, 3926 S. 9th St., Kalamazoo, Ml 49009. The funeral service will follow the visitation at 1 p.m. in the funeral chapel, with Pastor Ron Lugden officiating. Private interment will take place in Grand Prairie Cemetery. Donations may be made to the or Twin Lakes Reformed Church.