Irene "Jean" Schoof

Irene Jean Schoof, 95, of Bellaire, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at Autumn House Senior Living in Williamsburg, with her loving family at her side. She was born on April 15, 1929, in Bellaire, the daughter of William and Maude (Lingle) Steiner .

Jean graduated from Bellaire High School in 1947 and went on to attend Central Michigan University for a secretarial program. On July 7, 1950, in Bellaire, she married her high school sweetheart, Robert Schoof. They lived most of their married lives in Grand Rapids where they raised three children. He worked for many years for Spartan Stores, she, at several secretarial jobs at schools, insurance companies, and a variety of other businesses. In the early 90’s they retired home to Bellaire.

Jean was an avid reader . She enjoyed most genres, but especially liked historical fiction. She also spent much of her time tending to her flower gardens and birdwatching. She was a member of the Bellaire United Methodist Church and active in the women’s group. She volunteered her time at the Bellaire Public Library, the Bellaire community food pantry, and served on various volunteer organizations when they lived in Grand Rapids. She was a gracious woman, her life a gift to those who knew and loved her . Her absence will be felt by many.

Jean is survived by her three children: Robert, Jr . (Meri) Schoof of Britton, MI; Jody Schoof of Traverse City; Mark (Diane) Schoof of Wyoming, MI, and four grandchildren: Tom Schoof, Andy Schoof, Elizabeth Schoof, and Toby Schoof.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Robert Schoof, Sr.; three sisters, Verle Covert, Fern Shippy, and June Haller; and three brothers, Glenn Steiner, Ivan Steiner, and Wayne Steiner.

She will be laid to rest in Lakeview Cemetery in the spring of 2025.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Bellaire Public Library, PO Box 477, Bellaire, MI 49615.

Arrangements are in the care of the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign her online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com