Margaret C. Braaksma

BRAAKSMA, Margaret C.
of Grand Rapids
Formerly of Kalamazoo Passed away March 14, 2012 in Grand Rapids. Margaret was born December 7, 1916 in Sullivan Township, MI to the late John O and Pearl Ryskamp Bouwsma. She was united in marriage to William Braaksma on December 1, 1942. Margaret graduated from Calvin College in 1937. She was a member of Third CRC for approximately 60 years, and was active in the church for most of that period. She taught in the Kalamazoo Christian Schools for 33 years and for many years also gave private piano lessons. She read avidly, played piano and organ and often wrote musical programs for the entertainment of members of her church. She edited the "Third Edition," her church magazine, until she was nearly 90. She enjoyed family vacations at Big Star Lake in northern Michigan for many years, beginning in the 1920s. Her husband William preceded her in death in September of 1986. Surviving Margaret are her children, Bill Braaksma of Portage and Barbara Brian Hire of Grand Rapids; 4 grandchildren, William, Andrew and Caroline Braaksma and Maggie Hire. Also preceding Margaret in death was her brother, Otis J. Bouwsma. A memorial service will take place Friday, March 23rd, 2:00 o'clock at Third Christian Reformed Church, 2400 Winchell, Kalamazoo. Rev. Dr. Kenneth Baker will officiate services. A private interment for family will take place at Mt. Ever-Rest Memorial Park South. Arrangements are by Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick St. Memorials in Margaret's name may be directed to Kalamazoo Christian Schools, Calvin College or to Third Christian Reformed Church.