Barbara Talsma

June 18, 1937 ~ March 15, 2020

Barbara “Bobbie” Talsma aged 82 passed away Monday, March 16, 2020. She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Elsie Avery, brothers, James Bennett and Thomas Wiley; daughter-in-law, Connie Talsma. Surviving are her husband of 27 years, Robert Talsma; children, Edward (Susan) Lambert, Steven Talsma, Craig (Cherry) Talsma; grandchildren Joseph (Melissa) Lambert, Jonathan Wilson, Jennifer Talsma, Adam (Ginger) Hollemans, Abby (Mark) Elenbaas; great grandchildren, Breeanna, Britney, Asher, Arden, Lydia, Evan; brother, James Avery, Jr., special nieces, Louise Coughlan and Denise (John) Stokes; many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Bobbie worked for many years as Business Administrator at the Presbyterian Church in Florida, she was the Foundation Director at GR Home Builders Association, and was the Family Assistance Director at Calvin Christian Reformed Church. A memorial service will be held at a later date. To share a photo, memory, and sign the family’s online guestbook please visit www.stegengafuneralchapel.com. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Barbara “Bobbie” Talsma please visit our Sympathy Store.

Leave Your Tribute Message

March 24, 2020 8:00pm

Phil & Lydia Huber lit a candle in memory of Barbara “Bobbie” Talsma

- Phil & Lydia Huber

March 24, 2020 8:00pm

Sending our Sympathy to the entire Talsma Family. Met Bobbie only once, couldn't believe how thoughtful and kind she was. She and Lydia laughed and shared stories while Bob and I caught up. There was a condo tour, a treat fresh from the oven, lots of laughs and a feeling of happiness and delight seeing Bob and Bobbie together. Our kindest thoughts for you all during this time of sorrow. So glad I picked up the GR Press on Sunday and caught Bobbie's obituary. Stay well, and know that you are being thought of with kindness as you share family stories and remembrances.

- Phil

March 24, 2020 8:00pm

I had the pleasure of seeing Bobbie's cheerful face and lively smile and greeting for a number of years when I picked up clothes from Calvin's Family Assistance Center for our clients at 70x7 Life Recovery (formerly Criminal Justice Chaplaincy). Bobbie always lifted my spirits, and her faith was inspiring. Her delightful presence and spirit will be missed here on earth but I have no doubt she is experiencing the joy of being with Jesus. Praying for comfort and peace for all family who knew and loved her and were loved by her!  Sarah Rhein

- Sarah Rhein

March 23, 2020 8:00pm

Bob;  Our sympathies to you and the rest of the family on Bobbies passing. We sure enjoyed our time with the two you during our time with the Choraliers. May Gods peace and comfort be with you at this time.  Bill & Sue Vander Vennen

- William Vander Vennen

March 20, 2020 8:00pm

Craig and Cherry:  We were so sorry to hear of your step-mom's passing. I'm sorry we can't greet you in person during this time of physical isolation. Thoughts and prayers for comfort and peace.  Deb and Dan Goris

- Deborah J Goris

March 19, 2020 8:00pm

Aunt Bobbie has been my advisor and friend for my whole life. Losing her is like losing a third parent. We shared so many things and with such ease. We loved each other and we both knew it. I am going to miss her forever, but I know she's in Heaven and having a grand time. I am going to miss her sense of humor and advice tremendously. I love you and will see you again.  I know that she adored her family and always tried to keep in touch and instill in us all how important family is. I am going to try to carry that on.

- Denise Avery Stoke

March 19, 2020 8:00pm

Dear Bob and Family, we are shocked to hear about Bobbi's death. We wish you our sincere condolences.  Her passing brings back so many wonderful memories, of Florida birthday dinners, and many Michigan lunch and cards get togethers. Bobbi was a wonderful lady, and her caring heart was wide open to all.  We pray for you in this time of uncertainty regarding the Cover-19 pandemic when every situation is so severely impacted.  We are here at Waterford where we are pretty much isolated from visiting with others. They care for us very well here and fulfill all our needs. So we are blessed. We pray for your comfort and safety.  Sincerely,  Nelson and Bernie Gebben .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

- Nelson & Bernie Gebben

March 19, 2020 8:00pm

Nancy Stalls lit a candle in memory of Barbara “Bobbie” Talsma

- Nancy Stalls

March 18, 2020 8:00pm

My friend Bobbie always greeted me with a kiss. We had wonderful times traveling with our husbands in the Traverse City area. We enjoyed picnics, Lake Michigan and other scenic places. Bobbie loved walleye and enjoyed eating it at our cabin. She was always cheerful, ready to try something new and had a positive answer to a problem. She loved helping others whether she knew them or not. I miss her. Fran Dyk

- fran dyk

March 18, 2020 8:00pm

Full Of Love Bouquet was purchased for the family of Barbara “Bobbie” Talsma.

- Full Of Love Bouquet

March 17, 2020 8:00pm

Arrive in Style was purchased for the family of Barbara “Bobbie” Talsma.

- Arrive in Style




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Seasonal Potted Plant (mum, poinsettia, cyclamen, etc.)

Thinking of You Basket

Gerbera Greetings

Natures Glory

Sincere Sympathy Garden

Blooming Duo

Loving Embrace

Classic Sympathy

Stargazer Garden

Designer’s Choice Grand Vase Arrangement

Tender Touch

White Wonder

Bells of Beauty

Stargazer Easel Spray

Beautiful Memories

Remembrance Easel Spray

Beautiful Blessings Wreath

Colorful Memories Wreath

 

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