Barbara Jean Rathbun's Obituary
Mrs. Barbara Jean Rathbun passed away Sunday, October 6, 2019 in Muskegon, four days after her 87th birthday. She was born on October 2, 1932 to Dutch immigrants, Bouke and Jennifer (Nordhoek) Buwalda and they resided in North Muskegon. Barbara graduated from North Muskegon High School, class of 1950, and on May 18, 1951, she married Donald William “Bill” Rathbun in Muskegon. Barbara was employed by GTE prior to her retirement in 1991. She is survived by her husband of 68 years, Bill Rathbun; four children, Patricia McGee, Bill (Julie) Rathbun, Steve Rathbun, and Lisa Rathbun; eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents and 5 siblings, including her twin brother. A MEMORIAL SERVICE will be held 2:00 PM Saturday, October 12, 2019 at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 with Jennifer Arnold officiating. VISITATION with her family will be held immediately following her service. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Harbor Hospice Foundation.
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