Barbara Jean (DeWitte) VanHemert

Barbara Jean VanHemert, age 96 of Fremont, Michigan, passed away on Wednesday morning, November 22, 2023, at Edison Christian Health Center in Grand Rapids.  She was born in Fremont on December 9, 1926, to Dick & Gertrude (Harmsen) DeWitte. 

On October 1, 1946, Barb married Harvey V. VanHemert of Fremont, who preceded her in death on December 15, 1993.  She was also preceded in death by her eldest son, Alex VanHemert; and eldest daughter, Patricia VanHemert; and by her two brothers, Marvin and Donald DeWitte.  Barb is survived by 4 children:  Peggy (David) Maki, Michael VanHemert, William VanHemert, and Melissa (Bruce) Bunce.  She is also survived by 6 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

Barb was a lifelong Fremont resident, although she also enjoyed traveling extensively, particularly around the U.S. in her and Harvey’s custom “fifth-wheel” trailer. She also spent many winters living in Apache Junction, Arizona, initially with Harvey but even after his death choosing to continue enjoying the special beauty of the Southwest.

Barb was a former member of the First Reformed Church in Fremont.  She had a passion for flower gardening and listening to music of all types. She also loved going to casinos in Michigan, Arizona and everywhere in between, often with Harvey’s younger sister Carolyn Drake, who became a special friend after his passing.

There will be no services at this time, as Barb arranged to have her body gifted to Michigan State University for research.  Barb had a special connection with MSU from her days attending 4H youth programs there and then a program developing civilian support skills during WW2.  After her ashes are returned by MSU they will be interred at Maple Grove Cemetery in Fremont. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Corewell Health Hospice, 100 Michigan Street, NE MC004, Grand Rapids, Michigan  49503.  You can sign the online guest book at www.kroeze-wolffis.com.  Arrangements are by Kroeze-Wolffis Funeral Home, Inc.

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