Judy Joan (Stark) Bayer

Judith “Judy” Joan Bayer passed away on July 13, 2023.  Judy was born on August 19, 1936, in Chicago, Illinois to Fredrick and Flossie (Kasun) Stark.   Her parents were both musicians who performed on many Saturday nights in surrounding towns.   Judy often fondly recalled memories of her and her sisters, Joyce and Carol, playing games to amuse themselves and eventually falling asleep behind the piano as Freddie and Flossie entertained.   Following in their footsteps, Judy brought joy and comfort to the thousands of lives she touched over the years with her gift of music - through performing and as a piano and organ teacher.  She was a lifelong supporter of animal rights and a tireless advocate of their humane treatment.  Judy loved her grandchildren, the sunshine, her swimming pool and her garden.

Judy is survived by her daughters Vickie (Michael) Diebold and Cindy (Robert) Welch; grandchildren Michal Welch, Charlie (Allie) Welch, Elliot Welch, Benjamin Diebold, Veronica (Jacob) Diebold Pointon, Catherine Diebold, John Diebold, and Matthew Diebold; sister Carol (Al) Smith; brother-in-law Dick Yax; niece Lesley Smith; and nephews David (Tracy) Yax and Joseph Yax. Judy was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Raymond Bayer, and her sister Joyce Yax.

Judy will be laid to rest with her family in Harwick Cemetery, Mattawan. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in honor of Judy to the Kalamazoo Humane Society.   Please visit Judy’s personalized webpage to share memories and leave condolences with her family at http://www.langelands.com