Lynette B. Harrison

After a long and wonderful life, Lynette Baumann Harrison, age 90, of Grand Rapids, MI, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, May 13, 2018.  She passed away peacefully at Spectrum Blodgett, surrounded by family.  

Born in Wauwatosa, WI on January 1, 1928, Lynette moved to Storm Lake, IA at age eight where her father owned his own barbershop.  In 1949, after graduation from the University of Iowa with a degree in Economics, Lynette married the love of her life, Dr. Robert W. Harrison.  Lynette worked for the Dean of the Graduate College at the University of Iowa while her husband was in medical school.  After medical school, they moved to Chicago, where Robert completed his medical training at the University of Chicago. They moved to Grand Rapids in 1962, and Lynette became a tireless volunteer in many organizations while raising their four children.  She was active in the Kent County Medical Auxiliary for more than 30 years and served on the board of the Grand Rapids Chapter of the Michigan Heart Association.  Lynette was a founding member of Hospice of Michigan, served on the board for 10 years, and was a compassionate bereavement counselor.  In 1997, she received the Crystal Rose Award for her dedication to hospice. She was an active member of the Women’s City Club and served on the Board of Directors. Lynette was a dedicated PTA volunteer for the East Grand Rapids Public Schools, serving as PTA President for the high school, among other board positions.

Lynette’s foundation in faith shaped her life and strengthened and sustained her through death.  She was a devoted member of Hope Lutheran Church and served on the church board. She was a long-term participant of Bible Study Fellowship and ultimately served as a BSF leader.

In addition to her numerous volunteering activities, she and Bob traveled the world, the highlight of which included several picture safaris to Africa.  She found time to participate in multiple bridge clubs and, as an avid reader, enjoyed her involvement in several book discussion groups. 

Family and friends were Lynette’s passion.  She cherished her time spent at their house on Lake Michigan with her children, grandchildren, and friends.  Lynette will be lovingly remembered and missed by her husband Robert of 69 years; her children, Renee Ryan (William) of San Antonio, TX, Lisa Shuart (Mark) of Grand Rapids, MI, and Randy Harrison (Chrissy) of Edina, MN; her seven grandchildren, Patrick Ryan, Kelsey Ryan, Emily Hakim (Andrew), Daniel Shuart (Dena), Alison Shuart, Robert Harrison, and Alexia Harrison; and great grandchild, Mark Shuart.  She also is survived by her sister Joanne Schleisman (John) of Tucson, AZ.  She was preceded in death by the untimely loss of her son, Robert Harrison (Bobby), who died at the age of 21.

The family wishes to thank Lynette’s team of compassionate caregivers that allowed her to remain in independent living.  For their years of devotion, we especially thank Sue Walma, Brian Riemersma and Kathee Longberg. We also are grateful for the Acti-Kare team of in home assistants, as well as Sallie Majeske and Karla Marks.  

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Michigan. A memorial service is being planned for July 6th at Hope Lutheran Church.  Details will be published the Sunday prior to the service.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lynette B. Harrison, please visit our floral store.