Barbie to her family and closest friends, was a lover of life. More than anything she loved being at the beach. She cherished the days spent at the family cottage on Lake Michigan and the several trips she made to Florida. Barb excelled at athletics as a young person, going to state competitions in both gymnastics and diving. At East Grand Rapids High School she was a popular cheerleader and a loyal friend. She studied at Central Michigan University and Grand Valley State University where she began a lifelong practice of writing poetry. She loved word games, music and playing her harmonica. Barb faced a lot of challenges in her adult life. Her abiding faith in God led her through hard times with resilience, an optimistic attitude and a sense of humor. These qualities helped her face the terminal diagnosis that ended her life sooner than anyone expected. Her family is grateful for the many friends of Barb’s who shared their love with her during those final weeks and the support of the stellar team at Kindred Hospice for their compassionate care. A special thank you goes out to cousin, Sarah (Hawley) Crews for sharing her amazing gifts of caregiving, comfort, humor and music during Barb’s final days. Barb was preceded in death by her beloved mother, her father, and her brother Steven J Bruce. She is survived by her sisters, Susie Gordon and Laurie Reminga, their adult children, and five grand nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please consider making a donation to Global Sustainable Partnerships, a non-profit organization founded by Barb’s close friend, Kimberly Fogg.