Obituary: Barbara Jean VanDeven

Barbara Jean VanDeven, September 10, 1940 – January 9, 2025

Barbara Jean VanDeven, 84, passed away January 9, 2025, at Cambrian Assisted Living, Tecumseh. Barb’s family and friends will gather Monday, January 13, 2025, from 4 to 7pm, at Eineder Funeral Homes — Manchester Chapel. Her funeral service will be held on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 11am, following visitation from 10 to 11am at Eineder Funeral Homes — Manchester Chapel. Burial is to be at Rural Hill Cemetery in Northville. Pastor Tom Waller will serve as officiant.

She was born on September 10, 1940, in Red Cloud, Nebraska, to Homer and Ruby (Nitzel) Williams. Barb married the love of her life, Ronald VanDeven, on November 21, 1959, in Northville, Michigan; he precedes her in death. She will be remembered for her continuous smile. Barb is a graduate of Northville High School, class of 1958, and she attended Cleary College where she received her associate’s degree. She was a postal carrier for many years in the Manchester area. Barb enjoyed life to its fullest. One of her favorite things to do was game night with her grandchildren. She kept herself active at the Chelsea Senior Center and Manchester Area Senior Citizens Center, swimming and playing cards with her friends. Barb enjoyed golfing, puzzles, and watching the birds outside her bay window. Barb and Ron became snowbirds, regularly staying at St. Augustine, Florida. Earlier they took the family camping throughout Michigan, the Carolinas, and Disney World in Florida. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Barb is survived by her sons, Michael VanDeven and Doug VanDeven; grandchildren, David and Jessica VanDeven; many nieces, nephews, and cousins; and her friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, Homer and Ruby, and her husband, Ronald.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Cancer Society of America, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or the DAV (Disabled American Veterans). Please leave a message of comfort for Barb’s family or sign her guestbook at www.EinederFuneralHomes.com.

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.