Born: July 26, 1927

Died: Feb. 6, 2013

Thelma Jean Bakeman, 85, of Niles, passed away at her residence on Wednesday morning, Feb. 6, 2013, with her loving husband at her side.

Jean was born on July 26, 1927 in Kewanna, Ind., to the late Clarence and Sara (Wilson) Fitz.

On Oct. 25, 1958 Jean married the love of her life Charles “Chuck” Bakeman at a ceremony in Paw Paw, Mich.

Jean was a wonderful homemaker and took very good care of her family. She loved watching old movies, playing bingo and traveling with her husband to casinos throughout the United States. She was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her two sons; Dondi and James Bakeman, three brothers; Robert, Herschel “Lloyd” and Lester Fitz and two sisters; Pauline Cruz and Doris Howard.

Jean is survived by her husband Charles “Chuck” Bakeman of Niles, two daughter-in-laws; Mickie and Nancy Bakeman both of Niles, two grandchildren, one great-grandchild and a host of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, Feb. 8, 2013 at 1 p.m. at Mission Hills Memorial Chapel with a time of visitation beginning one hour prior. An interment will be held a Mission Hills Memorial Gardens.

Those wishing to make a contribution in Jean’s memory may do so to Hospice at Home, Inc. 4025 Health Park Lane, St. Joseph, Michigan 49085.

Condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the family at www.brownfuneralhomeniles.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to brown Funeral Home, Niles.