Evelyn Raber

Evelyn B. Raber of Battle Creek passed away February 24, 2020 at The Reflections Memory Care. She was born December 27, 1923 in Brookston, MN, daughter of Matthew and Carrie (Bowden-Gallagher) Boland. She is survived by two daughters: Kerry (John) Coomer of Sturgis and Janet (Roger) Small of Lansing; six grandchildren, several great and great-great grandchildren, and several special nephews and nieces. Evelyn was preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, Richard D. Raber in 2015, granddaughters Amy and Cathy, nephew Mark, and her three brothers and three sisters.  Evelyn graduated from Battle Creek Central High School in 1941, worked at American-Marsh Pumps, Inc and Kellogg Company before devoting her time to her family, church, friends, and volunteering.  She was an active member of Lakeview Baptist Church since 1950, serving on various boards, teaching Sunday School, lunching with the XYZ Club, and volunteering at the Neighborhood Food Pantry/Lakeview Site. Evie also enjoyed being a member of the Sew and So Club, traveling to all 50 states, Europe, Newfoundland, Canada, Caribbean, and wintering in Florida so Richard could watch the Tigers’ spring training.  Evelyn was a great hostess serving her fantastic spaghetti, baked chicken, or pasties. She loved all kinds of games, especially “31” when she would win nickels from everyone. She and Dick could dance a great polka or two step and enjoyed going to concerts.   She loved her family and enjoyed time with them teaching them fairness and kindness and a bunch of silly songs.  The family would like to thank the past and present staff of The Reflections Memory Care for helping Evelyn live her last years with respect and love.  Funeral services are scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on Friday, February 28, 2020 at the  Richard A. Henry Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 703 Capital Ave SW. Battle Creek, with Pastor Wendy Pratt officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.  Memorials may be made to the Battle Creek Community Foundation specified for the Lakeview Site Food Pantry or to Kambly Living Center. www.henryfuneralhome.org