Maxine J. Buist (House)

Buist passed away peacefully in her sleep on Thursday, August 2, 2018. Maxine was born on June 1, 1930 to her adoring parents, Gordon and Lorraine House in Grand Rapids, MI. While enrolled at Grand Rapids Jr. College, Maxine met the love of her life, Jack D. Buist, Sr. Maxine and Jack were married on June 29, 1951. In 1954, Jack took a teaching job in Allegan, MI, which they called home for the remainder of their lives. After the kids were in school, Maxine started her career at the Allegan Public Schools as an elementary librarian at both Dawson and West Ward. She found a great deal of joy in working with the students, and as evidenced by the correspondence through the years, Maxine was well loved by the kids. Maxine loved decorating for every holiday. She was especially known for her Christmas decor and her elaborate Santa collection. She loved to entertain and was a gracious hostess. Maxine was the most loving and devoted mother, wife, daughter, sister and friend. She had many lifelong friendships that she cherished deeply. She was, indeed, our "Dear Heart." Maxine leaves her adoring children Greg and Dawn Buist, Susan Buist, Judy and Joel Grams and Jack Buist, Jr. (Tina Tuller); three grandchildren, Meredith Buist, Curtis and Dawn Channells and Jason Gant; five great-grandchildren; seven great-great-grandchildren; her brother, Thomas House; maternal aunt, Valerie Knapp; several nieces, nephews, cousins and dearly loved lifelong friends. Maxine was preceded in death by her husband Jack D. Buist, Sr.; her brother, Chuck House and her parents. The family will receive friends on Saturday, August 11, 2018 from 10:00 AM 12:00 PM at Gorden Funeral Residence, Allegan Chapel. A memorial service will immediately follow at 12:00 Noon, Pastor Roger Bird officiating. Memorial donations may be made in Maxine's name to the Alzheimer's Association or Hospice of Holland.