Barbara Jean Arter's Obituary
Barbara Jean Arter, age 96, of Muskegon, Michigan passed away into the loving arms of her Lord on May 22, 2026. Barbara was born May 9, 1930 in Cleveland, Ohio to Hiram and Ethel (Katona) Turner. She married Richard W. Arter on September 11, 1948 in Willoughby, Ohio. She was preceded in death by her husband Richard W. Arter on October 21, 1998; her parents; her brother, James Turner, and daughter-in-law, Gloria Arter.
Barbara graduated high school from Andrews School for Girls in Willoughby, Ohio, where she excelled in basketball, field hockey and academics. After staying home to raise her three sons, Barbara returned to school graduating from Muskegon Community College and Grand Valley State University with high honors. She completed her education with a master’s degree from Western Michigan University. Barbara taught sixth grade at Orchard View Schools for 19 years.
Barbara enjoyed playing golf in which she carded two holes-in-one. She and her husband Richard travelled abroad extensively. She loved spending time with her family.
Barbara is survived by her three sons, Timothy (Cheryl) Arter, James Arter, and John (Kim) Arter; six grandchildren, Andrew (Jenna) Arter, Emily (Jon) Brickner, Jennifer (Timothy Coletta) Arter, Jayme (Ronnie) Love, Richard (Emile) Arter, Allison (Brett) Koch, and 15 great grandchildren.
A Private Service will be held in Barbara’s honor. Interment will take place in Laketon Township Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at https://www.sytsemafh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Barbara?
What’s a lesson you learned from Barbara?
Share a story where Barbara's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Barbara you’ll never forget.
How did Barbara make you smile?
