Esther Louise Barnes

BARNES, Esther L. Kalamazoo Passed away Dec. 20, 2009 at the Springs at Bronson Place in Kalamazoo. Esther was born in Kalamazoo, on September 17, 1918, the daughter of the late Edwin and Minnie (Miller) Belt. She remained a lifelong resident of Kalamazoo. On June 23, 1937, she married her husband Robert Arthur Barnes, who preceded her in passing in 1972. Esther had a zest for life, which transcended into many passions. She was a member at Unity Church. She enjoyed playing golf, reading books, and knitting. She was once an employee of Steketee's. She was a loving wife, mother, and friend, who will be dearly missed. She was also preceded in death by her special friend, Harold VanDePolder in 1998; and Claudia Heersma Schrock, who she lovingly called her daughter from the age of three until her death in 2009. Esther in survived by her daughter, Cynthia Lewis, of Kalamazoo; her sister-in-law, Julie Barnes of Vermontville; several cousins, nieces, nephews, and many great friends. In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held 2pm Wednesday, December 30, 2009, at the Unity Church of Kalamazoo, 1204 Whites Rd., Kalamazoo, MI 49008, with Rev. Marty Newman officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Esther's memory to Hospice Care of SW Michigan, 222 N. Kalamazoo, Mall, Ste 100, Kalamazoo, MI 49007; Unity Church of Kalamazoo, or the charity of one's choice. Arrangements by Avink Funeral Home Cremation Society Schoolcraft www.avinkcremation.com