Beverly J. Bestervelt
Frankenmuth, MI
Beverly Jean Bestervelt ended her amazing journey through life on February 12, 2025 at age 101. She was born on June 12, 1923 in Kalamazoo, MI, to Tony Bestervelt and Lucile (Coppock) Bestervelt. As a youngster she grew up helping in her father’s grocery store.
She spent many years as a Girl Scout counselor and an Explorer on a sailing boat. She loved camping and some people knew her as “Danny” (after Daniel Boone). She referred to herself as an “Old Duck”.
Jean graduated from Western Michigan University in 1945 with a degree as an Occupational Therapist. She was employed several years in hospitals, worked with young polio victims and WWII soldiers at the amputation center in Battle Creek. In 1955, she got her teaching certificate and Master’s degree at Wayne State University. For 31 years, she worked with disabled students in the Detroit schools.
In 1983, she and her long time friend, Grace Werstovshek, moved into Independence Village in Frankenmuth after both retired from teaching. Jean had currently been living in Covenant Glen.
Jean was a talented wood carver and a long time member of the Eagle’s Nest Woodcarving Guild. She was a member of St. Lorenz Lutheran Church. She supported Camp Lu Lay Lea and contributed much to their equipment and buildings.
Jean loved nature and the outdoors. She traveled the world and enjoyed kayaking, sailing and hiking. She enjoyed sending and receiving emails on her laptop. She was blessed to be an “adopted Grandma” of the St. Lorenz School class of 2023.
She leaves behind many friends, especially Laurie Hawkins, Betty Kischnick, Mark and Karen Hoerauf.
In lieu of a service, we ask that you perform a random act of kindness to celebrate Jean’s life.
Memorial contributions may be made to Camp Lu Lay Lea in care of St. Lorenz Church, 850 W. Genesee St., Frankenmuth, MI 48734.
Read More
