Freda B. VanderSalm

VANDERSALM, Freda B. Kalamazoo Died peacefully on July 24, 2009, at Rose Arbor Hospice Rsidence in the presence of her son as well as her longtime caregiver, Harriet Koning. Freda, the oldest daughter of Peter P. and Alice Van Dam Bosker, was born on January 13, 1907. She was a life-long resident of Kalamazoo who graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School and Western Michigan University. As a teacher in the Kalamazoo Public Schools for over twenty years, she is fondly remembered by many of her students. Freda was married to Harold VanderSalm who died in 1980. Two sisters, a brother, and two nephews also predeceased her. She is survived by her son Harold "Bunkie" VanderSalm II of Kalamazoo, a sister Grace Wagner of Naples Florida, four nephews and three nieces. She was a member of Second Reformed Church since the 1940s as well Kalamazoo Lawyers Auxiliary, and Palisades Park Country Club. Freda was a woman of deep faith and strong religious convictions who had a very positive influence on those around her. She also loved to decorate her homes, play bridge, sing hymns, and care for others. She very much appreciated her special neighbors, both in Kalamazoo and South Haven. She was among the first and last persons to swim in Lake Michigan each season with her dog, Doadi. Traveling to other countries and experiencing different cultures with her husband became a "mid-life" pleasure, as her daily diary would attest. Later in life, Freda just loved living in her own home and in the frequent company of friends. Freda will be buried next to her husband following a private service at Mount Ever-Rest Memorial Park. Visitation will be held from 9:30 -11:00 Tuesday morning at Second Reformed Church, 2323 Stadium Dr., where a memorial service will begin at 11:00. Freda's pastors, Rev. Fritz Kruithof, Rev. Don DeYong and Rev. Kevin Hart will lead the service.