Rachel Wayve Vickers, 94, of Battle Creek, Michigan, passed away on Sunday, February 22, 2015 at Alamo Nursing Home. She was born on June 12, 1920, the daughter of Rueben Bartels and Genevive (Neimy) Bartels.
Rachel loved life and family. She worked for 30+ years at Buck Tool Company. She began her family with husband Earl Birdsall and raised four children until his passing. Several years later she married Owen Vickers and enjoyed being a step-mother and friend to his children.
Rachel is survived by her two daughters, Barbara Elaine (Hank) Dawson and Sheila (Dave Foerster) Birdsall; four step-daughters, Doris Ames, Barbara Shipe, Marie Vickers, and Betty (John) Penca; step-son, Dick Vickers; a host of grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her two husbands, Earl Birdsall and Owen Vickers; son, Earl Birdsall and daughter, Lynn Birdsall.
Rachel enjoyed wintering in Florida for many years and shared her joy for life wherever she went. She loved gardening and working with flowers; she had a greater passion for her family and friends. Dedicated to her faith, she was a long time member of Sunnyside United Methodist Church. Rachel was loved by so many and returned that regard with regular generous contributions to charities that helped others.
A Memorial Service will be held at the Sunnyside United Methodist Church, 2800 Gull Road, on Friday, February 27, 2015, at 1:00 pm with Matt Weiler officiating.
Memorial tributes may be made to: Sunnyside United Methodist Church or a humanitarian organization of your choice.
Arrangements by the Baxter Funeral & Cremation Service. 269-788-9800 www.baxterfuneral.com

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