Naomi B. Richter

Naomi B. Richter, age 86, went into the arms of Jesus on September 7, 2022 after an extended illness.   Born in Chicago on March 26, 1936 to Otto and Bernice Richter, Naomi was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, companion, adoptive mother and grandmother, nurse, and teacher.

Naomi earned a nursing degree from University of Illinois and a master’s degree from Northern Illinois.  She taught nursing at Nazareth College for many years, enriching countless students with her skills, strengths, and energy.  She was a member of First Baptist Church of Kalamazoo.

Naomi was known for her independence and advocacy for those without a voice.  She attended the March on Washington with Martin Luther King, Jr., in 1963 after driving from Michigan in a VW Beetle!  She continued to be a strong advocate, speaking out for staff and residents while living at Borgess Place after her health prevented her from living independently.  Even from Borgess Place, she connected with friends and family through her delightful blog, “Tea Garden Times.”   Her passions included family history, travel, and birding.   She crossed the Atlantic on the Queen Mary twice to explore her family history and make connections with relatives and friends in Germany.

Family members loved her for her accepting, thoughtful and generous spirit. She was always engaged and interested in the lives of her loved ones.

Naomi is survived by her longtime companion, Marilyn (Sr. Geneva) Kruger, sisters Doris (Osmena) Paras, Gladys Anderson, Laverne Soto, adopted daughter Eva, grandchildren, great-children, and many beloved nieces, nephews, and their children.

A private gathering to celebrate Naomi’s life will be held with family only.

Please visit Naomi’s personalized online guestbook at https://www.langelands.com