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Harriet J. Chalker

April 8, 2023
Kalamazoo, MI

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Age 87, passed away at her home on April 8, 2023. She was born in Garrettsville, OH, on June 26, 1936, the daughter of the late Walter and Jean (Brown) Payden. Harriet was kind, passionate and loving. She lived her life to the fullest and leaves behind many wonderful memories to be cherished. Harriet had a strong faith in the Lord and was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church. She was selfless with her gifts and her time. Her life journey would take her from Ohio to Michigan, North Carolina, and Florida, and finally back to Michigan. Harriet always found a way to get involved. While in Michigan she volunteered at Bronson Methodist Hospital. In North Carolina she was named the state's Guardian Advocate of the Year. Harriet worked as an educational administrative assistant in every place that she lived. When not working or volunteering she enjoyed crafts, crocheting and making blankets. Many people were the recipient of her homemade greeting cards she made with friends in Florida. She believed in staying fit and was a regular at the gym. On August 24, 1957, she married the love of her life, Donald Chalker. Over their 66 years of marriage, Don and Harriet traveled together and made memories in many locations across the globe. Above all Harriet loved her family. She was a loving wife, involved mother and was especially proud of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her smile, sense of humor, wit, and gentle grace will be missed. Harriet is survived by her husband Donald; children, Christopher (Gayla) Chalker, Cathy (Gary) Grohman, Lisa (Jerry) Sackman; grandchildren, Katrina Foss, Ashley (Rick) Beach, Kate Yuill, Jessica (Nate) Yuill, Michael E. (Mindy) Chalker; great-grandchildren, Jack and Wade Beach, Brady and Carter Foss; her favorite grand-dog "Ruby"; many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. She was also preceded in passing by a son, Michael C. Chalker; siblings, Robert Payden and Sharon Brown. In accordance with her wish, cremation will take place and a memorial service to honor and celebrate her life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be given to Loaves and Fishes of Kalamazoo or First United Methodist Church, c/o the funeral home. Friends and family may share a condolence message online at www.joldersma-klein.com.