Bernadine Louise Rutgers

RUTGERS, Bernadine L 1930-2014 Kalamazoo Passed away peacefully with family by her side on May 22nd, 2014 at Rose Arbor Hospice Residence in Kalamazoo, MI. Bernadine was born May 24th, 1930 in Grand Rapids, MI, the daughter of Cecil and Marguerite (Peter) Hodge. She graduated from South Haven High School in 1948 and then worked as Secretary to the Superintendent of South Haven Public Schools for seven years. It was there that she met her husband, Howard J. Rutgers. They were united in marriage on March 27, 1954. They left South Haven in 1956 and moved to Kalamazoo. Bernadine stayed home to be with their four children during the early years of their marriage and later returned to work for several years as a clerk at Milham Elementary School in Portage until its closing. She enjoyed traveling, bowling, golf, bridge, euchre, reading, crafts and was a member of the Baguettes Golf League for over twenty years, but her most joyful times were spent with her children and grandchildren. Bernadine was also a member of Milwood United Methodist Church. Bernadine was preceded in death by her loving husband, Howard, in 2003 and her brother, Cecil Hodge II, in 1987. She is survived by her four children, Barry Rutgers of Oxnard, CA, Linda (John) Albery of Kalamazoo, MI, Nancy (Steve) Piper of Portage, MI, Karen (John) Arkesteyn of Wayzata, MN. Also surviving are nine grandchildren, Eric, Lauren, and Mark Albery, Sarah, Emily, and Claire Piper, Caroline, Lillian, and Cameron Arkesteyn; three step-grandchildren, Isaac and Amos Grzegorczyk and Shea (Marc) Munsell; and step-great granddaughter, Penelope Grzegorczyk. She is also survived by three brothers-in-law, Lyle (Ginger) Rutgers of Marquette, MI, Gale (Elizabeth) Rutgers of Allegan, MI, Donald (Janet) Rutgers of Kalamazoo, MI; and several nieces and nephews. She will be greatly missed. In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place. A Memorial Service celebrating her life will be held at The Fountains, 1700 Bronson Way, on June 8th at 1:00 p.m. with fellowship and refreshments to follow. Memorial contributions may be made to Rose Arbor Hospice, The Autism Society of North Carolina Camp Royall (one of Bernadine's preferred charities), or charity of your choice.