Bernadine Foster of Kalamazoo died at her home Thursday, Nov. 16. She was 92.
Bernadine was born in Jamestown, Mich., on June 23, 1931, the daughter of the late Arthur and Katherine (Sutter) Oldebeken. She graduated from Wayland High School, class of 1949, and went on to earn her registered nursing degree from Butterworth Hospital School of Nursing. Bernadine worked in OBGYN specialties at Bronson Hospital for several years and retired from Upjohn Occupational Health in 1995.
Bernadine was a loving mother and grandmother who enjoyed spending time with her family and celebrating special moments and holidays with them. She was fiercely independent and lived life to its fullest, up to her very last day. She loved flower gardening and feeding the birds.
Bernadine also was an avid card player, especially fond of playing Rook. She also enjoyed jigsaw puzzles and reading.
She was a member of Calvary Bible Church East and former member of Oakwood United Methodist Church. On Nov. 8, 1952, she married James Foster, who preceded her in death in 1995.
She is survived by her children, Douglas (Kim) Foster, Daniel Foster, David (Sarah) Foster and Cindy (Rob Morris) Foster; grandchildren, Derek (Tiffany) Burandt, Adam Burandt, Brittany Mitchell, Sarah Foster, Rachel (Jacob) Coddaire, Jacob Foster and Addysen Foster-Morris; four great-grandchildren; brother, Alan (Carole) Oldebeken; sister in-law, Linda (George) Hammer; several nieces and nephews.
Bernadine was also preceded in death by her daughter in-law, Darlene Foster; grandson, Matthew Foster and brothers, Arthur (Dolores) and Fred (Daisy) Oldebeken.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at Calvary Bible Church East, 5495 East Main St., Kalamazoo8. A time of visitation will take place at the church, one hour prior to the service.
Memorial contributiions may be made to Calvary Bible Church East.
