Olive A. Beeman's Obituary
Olive A. Beeman, age 84, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, January 2, 2021 at home. She was born to Ola and Vera (Stiff) Beeman in Flint, MI. In the late 60’s, Olive moved to the Muskegon area and lived here the rest of her life. She received her master’s degree in education from Western Michigan University. She was a dedicated educator and was a primary teacher for 40 years, most of those spent at McLaughlin and Nims. After retiring, she continued teaching as a reading specialist for another 10 years. Olive truly had a passion for teaching, and she took great pleasure in helping others achieve success. She also was a talented seamstress, enjoyed quilting and embroidery. She liked to stay active and participated in swimming classes at the YMCA. Everyone who knew Olive, knew she had a great love of shopping. Olive was an adventurous woman, traveling the world to experience the beauty it beholds. Above all things, she loved her family and her friends dearly. She was fun-loving and vivacious spirit that was truly loved by everyone. She will be missed by all who knew her. She is survived by her 2 children, Kristine Smith-VanderHoek and Dean Smith; 2 grandchildren, Carl VanderHoek and Zackery Smith; and many dear friends. She is preceded in death by her parents; sister, Janet Myers; and son-in-law, Charles VanderHoek. A Celebration of Olive’s Life will be held in the spring with family and friends. In lieu of flowers, Olive has requested a children’s book of choice be sent to a school, library, children’s shelter, or a mission; because to her, literacy opened doors for everyone. Arrangements entrusted to The Walburn Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 1547 W. Sherman Blvd., Muskegon, MI 49441. Please share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
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