Betty Lou Bouwman's Obituary
Betty Lou Bouwman, age 94, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.
Betty was born on March 13, 1931, to Charles and Bertha (Pickard) Blackmore. On May 10, 1957, she married Frederick Bouwman in Ravenna. Frederick preceded her in death on December 29, 2020.
Betty is survived by her sons David (Shelia) Bouwman of Florida; Bruce (Shari) Bouwman of Conklin; Eddie Bouwman of Coopersville; son-in-law Donald Dodge of Florida; grandchildren Belinda (Stuart), Christopher, Melissa (Otis), and Brooke (Joseph); and great-grandchildren Lainey, Natalee, Arianna, and Aurora. She is also survived by many special nieces and nephews. A heartfelt thank you goes to Debra and Marcus Vetter for their loving care and support, which made it possible for Betty to stay in her home for as long as possible.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved daughter Nancy Dodge; daughter-in-law Tani Bouwman; six brothers (Charles, Harry, Robert, Clayton, Jack, and Claude); and three sisters (Dorothy, Doris, and Beatrice).
Betty faithfully served the Lord with love and kindness throughout her life. She had a natural gift for caregiving, raising her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to know and love the Lord. A devoted homemaker and talented gardener, Betty found joy in caring for her family and her home. She especially cherished her winters in Florida, where she loved collecting seashells along the beach.
Her gentle spirit, unwavering faith, and boundless love will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her.
SERVICES for Betty will be held 11:00 AM Friday, October 24, 2025, at the Ravenna Free Methodist Church (2620 S. Ravenna Rd, Ravenna, MI 49451).
VISITATION will be from 5-7 PM on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at The Ravenna Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 3570 Thomas St., Ravenna, MI 49451 (231) 853-6511.
Burial will take place in Chubbuck Cemetery, Kent City, MI.
MEMORIALS to the Ravenna Free Methodist Church will be appreciated.
Share memories with the family at their online Guest Book at https://www.sytsemafh.com
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