Barbara “Barb” Kay Schoendorf (nee Dickinson), of Grand Rapids, MI, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026, just 2 days before her 90th birthday. She was born on March 16, 1936, in Grand Rapids, where she remained a proud and devoted member of the community throughout her life.
Barb graduated from Creston High School and Michigan State University. A lifelong Spartan fan, she rarely missed a football or basketball game and cheered on her team with unwavering excitement.
She dedicated several years of her life to teaching elementary education within the Grand Rapids Public School System, where she touched the lives of countless students and families through her compassion and commitment to learning. Later in life she worked many years in the wedding department at Eastern Floral.
Barb’s summers were spent at her cottage on Big Whitefish Lake, a place she loved dearly for 56 years. Some of her happiest memories were spent out on the water, especially on boat rides with her family and friends. Those summer days were filled with laughter, conversation and time together- simpler moments that meant everything to her. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she absolutely loved spending time with them at the lake.
Barb was a long time member of Mayflower Congregational Church and Priscilla’s Circle. She enjoyed decorating Christmas trees during the holidays and baking cookies for bake sales and church events. Her friend group that started back in elementary school for many, was one thing she was extremely proud of and told everyone about. They have been together for many many years and still get together once in a while for lunch.
Barb was preceded in death by her husband, Carl H. Schoendorf; son, Scott Carl Schoendorf; parents, William J. and Lavina Dickinson; parents-In-law, Henry and Clara Schoendorf; brothers-in-law, Don Schoendorf, Dick Schoendorf; special friend, Dwight D. Whipple; and sister-in-law, Patricia M. Dickinson.
She is survived by her daughter, Cindy Lesneski; son-in law, Tim Lesneski; three grandchildren, Ben (Sabrina), AJ (Lindsay), Lisa (Joe); two great-grandchildren, Kennedy and Emmett; brother, William R. Dickinson; niece, Susan Vanholstyn; and nephew, David Dickinson.
Barb loved her friends and family deeply; they were truly the heart of her life. She will be remembered for her sense of humor and lighthearted spirit. She loved to joke, laugh, and bring joy to those around her, leaving behind countless memories filled with smiles.
Visitation will be held from 4-7pm on Monday, March 23, 2026, at O’Brien-Eggebeen-Gerst Funeral Home, 3980 Cascade Road SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 49546, with a service following at 7pm. Pastor Brady Nemmers officiating. Interment Blythefield Memory Gardens.
Memorial contributions may be made to The National Marfan Foundation or Mayflower Congregational Church, 2345 Robinson Rd SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506.
3 Responses
I’m sorry to hear that Bea has passed!
I was planning a luncheon for her with the girls when I got the news.
She was so loved by all.
Barb will be missed, may she rest in peace!
Elaine
I am so sorry to lose a great friend – I knew Barb for a few years and she always brought joy to me. She always remembered me at every occasion and sent me special greeting cards. I connected with her on several occasions over coffee or family get togethers- It was a friendship of few years that is leaving memories for a life time – Rest in peace Barb!
Barb was a very dear friend and neighbor. We will miss “Barb” and “Mrs. Schoendorf” greatly. She lived in the little yellow cottage next to us on Big White Fish Lake. Barb was a treasure to our whole family and our extended families as well. Barb was kind and full of joy and an all-around positive person. We all loved sitting with Barb on her front deck. You could talk about anything with Barb. Barb always made you feel like you were important and that she had your back. She had an M &M machine in her kitchen and the grandkids loved to go visit Mrs. Schoendorf. Barb had lots of friends, because she was a good friend. It won’t be the same without her. We are thankful for all the goodness, laughs and fun Barb brought into our lives and for her loving support of our family over many decades. Today she rests safely in the arms of God.