Beatrice S. Purtee Obituary
We bid farewell to Beatrice S. Purtee of Kalamazoo, Michigan, whose journey of life gracefully concluded on September 5, 2025 at the age of 83. Beatrice touched countless lives with warmth and kindness, leaving behind cherished memories that will forever echo in hearts. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.
She was predeceased by: her parents, Stephan Ripplinger and Helen Ripplinger; her husband Dale R. Purtee; her stepfather Arthur Olsen; her brother Howard Olsen (Joan); and her grandson Skylar Schmitt.
She is survived by: her children, Thomas Schmitt of Union, MI., Keri Medford (David) of Union, MI., Steven A. Schmitt (Kathy) of Edwardsburg, MI. and Brenda K. Shephard; her grandchildren, Nicole Whalen, David Medford (Gretchen), Tony Schmitt (Chelsie), Tyler Schmitt (Amanda), Katie Rogers, Emily Rogers and Mynah Karsch; her great grandchildren, Hannah, Adrianna, Nathanial, Easton, Austin, Destiny, Ameria, Nylah, Libby, Luke, Avery, Harlow and Tillian; and her brother Brian Olsen (Sandy) of Bismark, ND.. She is also survived by her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Visitation was held on Saturday, September 13th 2025 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Stemm-Lawson-Peterson Funeral Home (1531 Cobblestone Blvd, Elkhart, IN 46514). A funeral service was held on Saturday, September 13th 2025 at 1:00 PM at the same location.
Memorial donations may be made to American Cancer Society, 5635 West 96th Street, Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46278 http://www.cancer.org.
