Kristine Brower-Stine

Kindhearted, independent, and always determined to chase after her dreams, Kristine Brower-Stine truly understood the secret to a life well lived. Her drive was unmatched, and once she put her mind to something, there was nothing that could stand in her way. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Kris’ family was the focus of her life. Her generosity touched more lives than she could have imagined, in ways big and small. Dearly loved, Kris’ memory will be held close by those who knew her best.

The 1950s were an influential chapter in the history of the United States. The Korean Conflict had come to an end overseas. Here at home in America, the historical civil rights movement was in full swing. Popular TV shows such as “I Love Lucy” and “Father Knows Best” brought laughter into every home, and the music of the legendary Elvis Presley dominated the scene. It was during this exciting time that Glen and Lilo (Fein) Brower were looking forward to the arrival of their second child. Glen and Lilo had met in Germany, while Glen was serving in the Army and Lilo was working on the base. The two were married in Germany, then relocated to the United States, where they welcomed their first daughter, Ingrid. Their second beautiful girl, Kristine, was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, on February 29 of 1956.

Growing up, Kris was a typical girl of her generation in many ways. She was raised in the family home on the East side of Kalamazoo alongside her older sister. From a young age, Kris enjoyed sewing, and she discovered a love for designing and making her own clothes. She held a soft spot in her heart for animals of all kinds, especially cats. Kris’ best friend, Susan Powers, lived right next door to the Brower home, and the two girls were known to get into their fair share of mischief together. Throughout her formative years, Kris attended local schools, graduating from Kalamazoo Central. She went on to pursue further education at Western Michigan University, where she studied computer science and fashion design. Kris would later make her way to Grand Rapids Community College to participate in their culinary program.

It was while working at the Jewel grocery store during her high school years that Kris met Alan Stine, the young man who would forever hold the key to her heart. She worked at the service desk and as a cashier, and Alan was a bagger and worked in produce. A friendship blossomed between the two, with plenty of flirting back and forth, but eventually, their connection deepened. They began dating, and the rest was history. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Kris and Alan were united in marriage in 1981. They were a perfect match in every way, and their days were filled with companionship and deep, unconditional love.

Before long, Kris’ dream of having a family of her own began to unfold. She and Alan were overjoyed to become parents to their three wonderful children, Aaron, Jeff, Lauren. Kris thrived in her role as a mother. She strove to build precious memories with her kids, like baking cookies and doing crafts. Everything Kris made, she poured her heart and soul into, crafting everything from cakes to Easter eggs with intention and tangible love. She also put her sewing skills to use making clothes and Halloween costumes for her children. It was important to Kris to be an active and engaged mom, so she often gave freely of her time and energy volunteering in her kids’ schools.

Later in life, Kris was thrilled to become a grandmother to Celine, Merrick, Paloma, and Lillian. She was so excited having one more on the way as well. She adored her grandkids, doting on them at every opportunity. Kris was so happy to pass her creative spirit and love of art down to her oldest granddaughter. Kris’ animals were also a part of the family. Every stray cat knew that her home was a safe haven. Kris would take them in saying that she would find them another good home, but the cats always ended up sticking around.

Over the years, there were many hobbies that brought joy into Kris’ everyday life. She enjoyed making pillows and drapery, and she loved gardening, baking, and sewing. A collector of things that brightened her home, Kris would often go vintage shopping and antiquing. She refurbished furniture, breathing new life into used pieces. Kris nurtured her creativity through drawing and painting classes at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. She was able to travel all around the world, taking trips to several U.S. states, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Europe.

All who knew and loved Kristine Brower-Stine can certainly attest to her unwavering strength and deep devotion to her family and friends. She was a powerful role model of compassion, exemplified by her willingness to go above and beyond to serve others. Fiercely protective and supportive of her loved ones, Kris’ family was undoubtedly her greatest treasure, and she considered herself blessed to watch her family grow. Her insatiable zest for life could be felt by all those near. Although she will be so missed, Kris will be forever cherished and remembered.

Kristine Brower-Stine of Kalamazoo, age 70, died on April 30, 2026. Kristine was born February 29, 1956, in Kalamazoo to Glen and Lilo (Fein) Brower. Surviving are her husband, Alan Stine; children: Aaron (Kamille) Stine, Jeff (Karen Passmore) Stine, and Lauren (Michael) Wax; grandchildren: Celine, Merrick, Paloma, Lillian, and one on the way; sister, Ingrid Purk.

Please join us at a Life Story Visitation on Friday May 8, from 3 PM – 4 PM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900. A Life Story Service will begin at 4 PM. A reception will follow in the Life Story Center where food, drinks, and stories can be shared. Celebrate Kristine’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on her dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to Animal Rescue Project or Leukemia Research Foundation.