Velma Jane Bystry, 96, of Coldwater passed away peacefully Friday, May 05, 2017 at Almost Like Home in Bronson.

A funeral service will take place at 1:00 PM on Friday, May 12, 2017 at Dutcher Funeral Home in Bronson with Pastor Terry Siler of the First Congregational Church officiating. Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Visitation will be prior to the service beginning at 11:00 AM.

Velma was born April 1, 1921 to Clyde and Minnie (Byers) Bauder in Coldwater. Velma married the love of her life, Albert Bystry on April 18, 1942. Together they raised their four sons. Later in life, Velma went to work at Douglas Manufacturing retiring after 15 plus years.

Velma was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She was a hardworking woman with many interests. Velma enjoyed flowers and doing yardwork, being outdoors and going sight-seeing. She had a love of all animals. Velma was a jokester at heart, pulling pranks on family, friends, and co-workers at Douglas. Her true joy in life was spending time with her family, especially the grandchildren.

Mrs. Bystry is survived by her sons Jerry (Connie) Bystry of Orland, David (Debbie) Bystry of Burlington, and Rex (Diane) Bystry of Sturgis; her daughter-in-law Sheila Bystry of Coldwater; 9 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; 4 great, great grandchildren; and her very special friends & caregivers Randy & Stacy Herman of Almost Like Home. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Albert; her son Richard “Dick” Bystry; and her brother Elwood Bauder.

Memorials may be directed to the First Congregational Church of Bronson. www.dutcherfh.com