Barbara Ann (Colver) Buskard

Barbara Ann Buskard, age 89, was welcomed home by her Lord and Savior Thursday, December 12, 2024. She was born in Grand Rapids, MI to the late George and Agnes (Hoogewind) Colver. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years,Vernon L. Buskard, the love of her life and infant son Eric Dale Buskard. 

Barb had a very kind heart and loved to help others in any way she could, she never knew a stranger. She loved playing softball for the Walker City League and for her church, Berlin Baptist. She passed on her love of the game to all of her children and also to the community through coaching. As she aged, she would watch any and all athletic events, especially collegiate games at GVSU and other favorites like Benedict College, Clemson University and the University of South Carolina. The Detroit Lions were her favorite NFL team. 

Having been gifted in many ways, she gave back to her community and church family by volunteering as an Awana Director, 4-H (sewing) Leader, book return with the Richland County Library and Campus Beautification for Ben Lippen Christian Schools. She enjoyed helping young families and those in need. Barb was an avid quilter. She loved working with her hands, her only regret in life was losing the use of her hands due to arthritis. 

She will be deeply missed by her children, Verne “Bryan” (Kristen) Buskard, Michaelle “Shelly” (Patrick) Telfor, JoLane (Scott) Tomlinson, Dawn Faber; (James), Todd (Juanita) Buskard. Grandchildren: Erik (Amy) Buskard, Brett (Kristin) Buskard, Matt (Joey) Buskard, Katie (Brad Hoskins), Claire Telfor, Matthew Telfor, HaiLey Tomlinson, Brad (Courtney) Faber, Michelle (Geoff) Mahoney, Merissa (Joey Raap), Emily (Ryan Emaus), Brianna “Ro”, Troy Buskard, Aubrey Buskard; Great Grandchildren: Grace, Lena, Micah, Cole, Sophia, Molly, Olivia, Charlotte, Anneliese, Myrtle, Tulip, Jaden; sisters-in-law, Jackie (Buskard) Messing, Esther (Buskard) Waller, Josie (Tom) Buskard, Barb (Dave) Buskard, and many much loved nieces and nephews. 

Relatives and friends may meet the family for visitation Tuesday, December 17, 2024 from 11:00am to 12:00pm at Berlin Baptist Church the former grounds of Barb’s High School - Berlin High; 14141 State St, Marne, MI 49435.

 Barb’s Celebration of Life Service will follow at the church 12:00pm/noon with Rev. Jeff Gunderman, pastor and friend, officiating. 

Those who can not attend the Celebration of Life Service can view the live stream: https://www.youtube.com/@berlinbaptistchurch. 

Burial will be in the Marne Cemetery, Tallmadge Township. Barb would be quick to say that she is more alive today than ever before, “For to me, to live is Christ to die is gain” Philippians 1:21.

 Memorial donations may be made to Berlin Baptist Church/Buskard Endowment that benefits the spiritual formation of children by helping to send them to church camp. Donations should be sent to the church: 14141 State St, Marne, MI 49435.

The family would like to thank Faith Trillium Hospice and True Blue Caregivers for the above and beyond care that they gave Barb as her health declined. 

Condolences for the family may be left on Barb’s guestbook at www.throopfh.com. 

Throop Funeral Home 

Coopersville, 616-837-8161