Beverly Jean Parker (Behler, Haven)

Beverly Parker was born in Cleveland, Ohio on July 20, 1923 to Florence and Dr. Harold Gotschall.  She passed away peacefully on March 24 after a short illness.

She graduated from Cleveland Heights High School and attended the University of Michigan where she received her Bachelor of Science degree and met the love of her life, Jack Behler. 

Bev was passionate about her dogs and cats, golf, snow skiing, painting, traveling, entertaining, bridge, family, and friends.  She was a member of Blythefield Country Club, Pi Beta Phi Sorority, The Woman’s City Club, The Victors Club, The University of Michigan Alumni Association, Grace Episcopal Church, The National Audubon Society, and other local and national organizations.  She was an avid reader throughout her life and was especially fond of mysteries and periodicals regarding cooking and decorating.  Birdwatching was a favorite pastime throughout her life.  But most of all, she loved spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her parents, her brother Duane Gotschall, and her beloved husbands Jack Behler, Robert Haven, and Robert Parker.  She is survived by her sister, Donna Lynne (Tom) Kress of Chagrin Falls, Ohio; her children Charles F. “Chip” Behler, Averie (Larry) Alverson, and Ruth Ann “Rudy” Russ of Grand Rapids, grandchildren Christopher (Kathy) Behler, Andrew (Jennifer) Behler, William (Jennifer)Alverson, Betsy (Justin) Binish, Adam (Rebecca)Russ, and Jaqueline Russ as well as ten great grandchildren.

A service celebrating her life will take place Saturday, April 7, at 11 am, with visitation one hour prior to service at Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Service, 4291 Cascade Rd. SE, Grand Rapids.  Charitable donations in her memory may be made to the Humane Society of West Michigan, The National Audubon Society or the charity of your choice.

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