June 20, 1934 ~ November 30, 2024
Barbara Ann Burmeister, 90, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Nov. 30, 2024. She was born on June 20, 1934, just north of Stony Lake, in a large farmhouse on Scenic Drive in Benona, to the late Thurlow W. and Anna (Grantz) Schmieding.
Barb later moved with her family to Muskegon, where she graduated from Muskegon High School in 1952. It was there that she met a young man at the drive-in named Bill Burmeister. Their connection was instant, and they soon fell in love. Barb and Bill married on Feb. 27, 1954, and together they raised four children.
Barb was a dedicated homemaker, supporting Bill and their children with unwavering love and devotion. She not only kept the family in line but also took great pride in her role as the bookkeeper of the family farm. Together, Barb and Bill built a thriving farm that employed family, friends and neighbors throughout the years. Her deep commitment to both her family and the farm was the foundation of what is now a centennial farm—a true testament to the legacy Barb and Bill created.
Barb’s warmth and great sense of humor allowed her to get along with everyone she met. She enjoyed bowling, golfing, sharing lunches with her Red Hatters group, and supporting agricultural events. Through it all, Barb’s love for her family, her farm, and her community shone brightly.
Barb is survived by: her husband, Bill Burmeister; children, Bart (Debbie) Burmeister, Babs Burmeister, Joe (Malena) Burmeister and Russ (Cindra Curtis) Burmeister; nephew, Paul Schmieding; grandchildren, Terrah (Kevin) Schmieding, Cam and Colton (Taylor Margraves) Burmeister, and Kristen Burmeister; great-grandchildren, Gabby, Trent, and Jayda Schmieding, and Granger Burmeister.
Barb was preceded in death by: Thurlow W. and Anna (Grantz) Schmieding; sister, Virginia Cooper; brother, Thurlow P. Schmieding; and niece, Patty Schmieding.
Funeral services will be held at noon, Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, at Harris Funeral Home, 267 N. Michigan Ave., Shelby, MI 49455. A visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the funeral home, with a luncheon immediately following.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Harbor Hospice, interland3.donorperfect.net, or by a mail-in envelope provided by the funeral home at the time of services.
Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements.
