Vaughn L. Baber

Baber, Vaughn L.

Of Kalamazoo

Vaughn L. Baber was called to his heavenly home on July 1, 2019, surrounded by his loving family. He was born December 4, 1928 in Kalamazoo, MI, the son of Vaughn and Lena (Ouding) Baber. Vaughn was a graduate of Kalamazoo Central High School Class of 1947, where he excelled at basketball. For years he organized reunions, enjoyed getting together with his classmates, maintaining and strengthening their lifelong friendships.

Vaughn attended WMU to pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Business. While at WMU he met the love of his life, Arlene Rose Scarlett and in 1951 they were united in marriage. During the Korean War, from 1952-54 he served in the U.S. Army. Vaughn and Arlene were longtime members of Berean Baptist Church. After retiring as sales manager for KVP Southerland (the Brown Paper Company), Vaughn Baber and Larry Massie founded The Bicentennial Book store in 1976. Vaughn ran the book store until recent years.

For many years Vaughn and Arlene enjoyed weekly dinners with Richard and the late Betty VanWerden, and Phyllis and the late Bill Lightvoet. The most important part of Vaughn's life was his family. He is survived by his wife Arlene Scarlett Baber; his daughter Lynette Baber (Mark Van Domelen) and son Michael Vaughn Baber. He is also survived by his sisters Evelyn Copeland and Audrey Schulz (Robert Schulz).

Vaughn had a zest for life and never stopped learning. He was an avid reader, and collector of rare books. Vaughn loved God, his wife, and his children. He loved people. He asked everyone he met about their lives, because he was truly interested. A kind and sensitive man, Vaughn had an inner light, a sparkle in his blue eyes, and a loving and genuine heart. Everyone who knew Vaughn will remember him for his wonderful sense of humor.

In accordance with Vaughn's wishes cremation has taken place. The family will receive friends from 2:00 to 3:00PM on Wednesday, July 10th at the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Burial & Cremation Services, 622 S Burdick St., Kalamazoo, MI 49007. A memorial service to celebrate Vaughn's life will begin at 3:00PM Wednesday at the funeral home. Memorials in Vaughn's memory may be directed to Berean Baptist Church. Please visit Vaughn's personalized guest book at http://www.langelands.com