Carolynn Kirkpatrick

Carolynn Mary Buder Kirkpatrick, 86, of Kalamazoo passed away peacefully on November 29, 2022. She was born on December 26, 1935 in Kalamazoo, Michigan to Fred and Wilma (Thomas) Buder. On December 10, 1955 she was united in marriage to Clair R. Kirkpatrick and they had three children. Carolynn graduated from Western State High School in 1954. She was an avid reader, enjoyed travel, and spending time with her close friends and family, especially her grandsons.

She was preceded in death by her ex-husband of 40 years, Clair Kirkpatrick (2017); and her long time companion, J. William Weessies of Vicksburg (2020). She is survived by her three children: Steven (Pam) Kirkpatrick, Thomas (Charles) Kirkpatrick, and Lynn (Henry) Ziolkowski; grandsons: John and Thomas Ziolkowski; her twin sister, Marilynn Balcom; sister, Diane (Steve) Blackford; brother, David Buder; and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life has been planned for Feb. 4, 2023 at Martell's in Kalamazoo from 1-4PM. In the mean time, if you'd like to honor Carolynn's life, please join us in raising your glass for a toast in her memory.

Memorial contributions may be made to, Alzheimers Association Michigan Great Lakes Chapter, Kalamazoo Loaves & Fishes, or the Kalamazoo Gospel Mission. Please visit Carolynn's webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com to archive favorite memories, photos, or sign her guestbook. Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 385-2900.