Pearl Vravis, 83

Dec. 30, 1927 — Nov. 2, 2011

Pearl (Bebe) Louise Vravis, 83, passed away Nov. 2, 2011 at Memorial Hospital in South Bend.

She was born in Chicago to Edward (Heine) and Nellie J. Spiller on Dec. 30, 1927. She lived most of her adult life in southwest Michigan.

She graduated from St. Anthony’s of Padua in Roseland and Longwood Academy in Chicago. Bebe was a regional manager for Queen’s Way Fashions and instrumental in starting Joya Fashions, where she won numerous sales awards. An avid bingo player, she was loved by everyone who knew her, for her sprit as well as her strength of mind.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Emil Vravis; her son, James Emil Vravis; and her sister, Vivian Roviaro.

She is survived by her children: Thomas E. Vravis (Barbara), Doreen L. Heywood (Brian), Joyce A. Vravis and Carter P. Vravis (Terry). She was the beloved Nona of 10 grandchildren: John Vravis, Katherine Heywood, Jacklynn Heywood, Erica Vravis (David Tackett) Jessica Vravis, Jacob Vravis, Katrina Turensek, Timothy Turensek, Roxanne Gott and Bridgette Suchorski. She is also survived by 10 great-grandchildren, although she hopes to see many more as well as by her very special friend Indiana Jones.

Bebe will be greatly missed by her entire family and her memory will be cherished in their hearts forever.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, Dec. 3, at 11 a.m. at St. Mary of The Lake Catholic Church, New Buffalo, Mich.

Memorial contributions may be made to the River Valley Senior Center 13321 Red Arrow Highway, Harbert, MI 49115.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Swem Chapel, Buchanan.

Those wishing to sign her guest book or leave a condolence message may do so by visiting our website at www.swemchapel.com.