Janan "Jan" Fay Birch

Janan Dickman Birch Janan Birch, age 81, beloved wife, mother and grandmother passed away peacefully on the morning of July 31, 2023. Janan was born in Scranton, PA on January 28, 1942 to parents Donald W. and Mabel H. Dickman. She graduated from Kimball High School in 1959 and Western Michigan University in 1963, with a degree in English and Fine Arts. In 1964, Jan married the love of her life, James D. Birch. They were blessed with two children, Donald William in 1965 and James David in 1969, both live in Indiana. Jan was a devoted mother and grandmother. She had four grandchildren, Lundy Gardner, Chicago, Will Birch, Indianapolis, Cameron, Louisville and Corey Birch of Indianapolis. Jan enjoyed living in beautiful Traverse City with scenic views all around, along with her husband Jim for the past 35 years. In nature she especially loved butterflies, elephants and manatees. Jan was a published poet and she had a unique way of including her love of nature into her poetry. When her sons were younger, she was active in many school activities involving parents and teachers. Later she managed the office functions for Birch Surgical Company and was very helpful for her husband’s career in that field. Jan and Jim enjoyed 59 years together. Jan was a wonderful homemaker for her entire family. In Jim’s words: “Jan is, and was the most beautiful woman I ever saw and couldn’t believe she said yes when I proposed to her!” Jan will be remembered for her enthusiasm and joy of life, being with loved ones, singing for birthdays, her love of pet dogs and most of all her devotion to her husband and family. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her. Jan was predeceased by her parents and sister, Patricia. She is survived by her husband, Jim, sons, Don (Chris) Birch and James (Stacey) Birch. Grandchildren, Lundy (Kevin) Gardner, Will (Loren) Birch, Cameron and Corey Birch. Niece, Emily Risdon and nephew, Matthew George. Brother and sister-in-law, Bill and Sally Birch and their families. A memorial gathering will be held in Kalamazoo at a later date. Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Jan’s family at her tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com. The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Janan "Jan" Fay Birch

January 28, 1942 - July 31, 2023