Byrl Orva Lamoreaux

​Byrl was born in Grand Rapids in Dec. 1918 to Eva and Ira Salisbury, as the third child. She is predeceased by her three siblings, LaRee Ellens, Roy Salisbury, Ira Salisbury. Byrl was married for 70 years to Jack Lamoreaux of Grand Rapids from 1939-2009. The couple resided in Michigan and California over their lifetime and enjoyed retirement years on Silver Lake in Grand Junction for over 38 years. Byrl valued education and followed her dream of being a nurse, attending LPN training, and graduating at age 42, second in the class. She enjoyed a 15-year career at a Kalamazoo hospital. Her artistic talents were discovered in 1950, with an interest in ceramics after taking some classes while residing in California. She later taught ceramic classes in Kalamazoo. Her interests/talents later evolved into china painting and jewelry making, often selling them at local craft and holiday shows. Her family of three children, six grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren were always her love and pride. Her son: Jack M. Lamoreaux (Linda Mertaugh) of Fruitport MI, and grandchildren: Lisa Kaltrider (Steve); John (Lori) Lamoreaux; David (Johni-Lynn) Lamoreaux; and Kevin (Carrie) Lamoreaux; Daughter, Beth Caragol (John) of Southport NC and grandchildren: Theresa Caragol (Andrew Hartwell), and Jack Caragol (Tanya); Daughter, Mary Ellen Lamoreaux of Wyoming MI. Over the years, annual family time at the Silver Lake home was the summer vacation fun for the children, grandchildren, and many nieces/nephews. Boating, swimming, and blueberry picking were her favorite activities. Byrl, as the ultimate hostess, loved planning and providing meals, encouraging board and card games for all to relax and have family fun time, while promoting lasting happy childhood memories. As some friends and family have shared thoughts over the last few days, we affirm Byrl will be remembered for her love of education, knowledge, and reading. Her loving spirit, and Christian faith were examples for our own lives. She was our example of following one’s dreams/goals, having a positive attitude, and remembering challenges are for overcoming. She remains our model of growing old gracefully. Funeral services will be held at 3 pm Wednesday, September 21 at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Kentwood, with Rev. Bonnie Lohrberg officiating. Burial will be held at Rest Lawn Memorial Park. Relatives and friends may meet the family on Wednesday from 2-3 pm before services begin. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to your local American Red Cross.