Eva Gale

Eva Gale, age 97, of Kalamazoo, MI died on January 21, 2016. Her journey began December 17, 1918, in Manchester, NH, born to immigrant parents from Athens, Greece, Arthur and Christine (Caparchanise) Georgiou. They brought their growing family to Kalamazoo where Eva grew up. She graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School. She then began work for the Allied Paper Company and later as a typist at the Kalamazoo State Hospital. She enjoyed playing tennis, sewing, creating the things she loved, and dancing. It was at one of those dances where Eva met John and he swept her off her feet. They were both creative at everything they did. They married in April 4, 1947; their union was a blending of "Bob Vila," and "Martha Stewart." John was a builder and while raising a family he would plan and build most of the homes they lived in. Eva was a gifted designer and she enjoyed decorating their homes. She was also a gifted seamstress, sewing most of the clothes she wore; even her own wedding dress. She also loved baking. Every year the family would pick fruits and vegetables from the local farmers and Eva would freeze, can, and make fresh jams. Everything was homemade and always shared with friends and family. John and Eva's motto was, "Why buy it, when you can make it?" She had a meticulous eye for detail, no matter how large or small the project. Both John and Eva were long time members of the Emmanuel Lutheran Church, sang in the choir, and were both devoted volunteers. After her children had grown, Eva worked at Probasco's Fabric Store, then as a typist at the Kalamazoo Gazette while John continued as a builder at Western Michigan University. She continued to work there after John's death on January 21, 1979, until her retirement. She traveled a bit, but she loved most being at home where she continued baking, sewing, and taking courses in anything that interested her. She learned how to make teddy bears, took up basket weaving, and even took a small course in auto mechanics so she could. She was not afraid to tackle anything. She was a very private, proud, and fiercely independent person. She lived life her own way, never compromising, and, despite obstacles, she maintained her sense of humor and as well as her dignity. Eva's journey came to an end in the same manner she lived her life, with grace, at home surrounded by the ones she loved including her devoted cat of 22 years, Princess. She is survived by her two children, Michelle Susan D. Gale, her forever partner, Gregor Laraque; David J. (Jillian) Gale; sisters, Olga Georgiou, Athena (George) MacKeller; nieces and nephews. She was also preceded in passing by three siblings, Beatrice Missias, George Georgiou and Helen Georgiou. In accordance with her wishes, cremation will take place and she will be laid to rest at Oshtemo Cemetery in the spring. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to the charity of one's choice , c/o of the funeral home. The family would like to thank all those caregivers who worked hard to allow Eva to remain in her home as she aged. This includes Nancy, Peery, and Shirley Colwell, who always took Eva shopping and helped her with appointments with such good humor; and to Debra Johnson, who would sing, dance, and make her laugh. Thank you to the family of faith at Immanuel Lutheran Church who prayed for Eva and made her a prayer shawl; to Pastor Sidwell, who arranged for Sylvia Marshall and Laura Pitts to serve communion to her at home; and to Ann Lauer, who kept in touch so faithfully. Thank you, also, to Tamie, who helped navigate the system; and to Sandy Ruff, who helped care for Eva in her own special way. Thank you to Jessica and Eva. Thank you to Gregor Laraque, who has been a never-ending source of entertainment for Eva. If not for him, many things would not have been possible. Thank you to all of the Laraque family in Boulder, CO, who gave their words of love and encouragement to support the family. Joldersma & Klein Funeral Home; 917 S Burdick St Kalamazoo, MI 49001 (269) 343-2628.