Gwen Kay Wolfis, a beloved wife, mother, Oma and great-Oma, peacefully went home to be with her Lord and Savior on September 2, 2026, at her home, surrounded by family.

After courageously battling cancer, she never complained and was always optimistic. Through it all, she remained strong in her faith with her husband by her side lovingly caring for her every step of the way.

Gwen was born on October 5, 1943, in Kalamazoo, MI, the youngest of three children born to Ed and Dorothy Russell. At a young age, Gwen was given the nickname “Babe”, a name that stayed with her throughout her life. Some knew and loved her simply as “Babe” rather than her given name. She graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School and continued her education at KVCC.

Gwen was blessed with two children from her first marriage and as a single mother she worked hard to provide a fun and loving home for them. She found her enduring love with husband, Hendrick (Hank) Wolfis whom she married in 1985, gaining 2 additional sons and they shared 41 years together. They traveled to the Netherlands for their 10 year anniversary where she enjoyed meeting Hank's extended family. Her outstanding work ethic was recognized during her career as senior purchaser at Denso Manufacturing where she would travel to Japan and Europe. She went on to get her bachelor's degree from Spring Arbor University.

Gwen was gifted artistically and loved knitting, crocheting and painting but quilting was her specialty and she blessed each of her kids and grandkids with their own quilts handmade by Oma. She enjoyed searching for new pieces to add to her Fenton glass collection and if it included a hummingbird, that was a bonus! She was always excited to show her family the newest treasure she found.

Purple was Gwen's favorite color and she would often add purple to her hair - a fun and colorful reflection of her joyful personality. She loved trying new recipes, cooking, canning, gardening, watching NASCAR and enjoyed the winters in Florida with Hank. She had so much fun driving the golf cart he bought her and was always happy taking their guests on golf cart rides looking for the local alligators.

Her greatest joy and pride was her family. She was a devoted mother and a treasured Oma who loved making memories with her family. She cherished the time spent with her kids and grandkids and made each one feel special and loved. She would arrange special day trips and sleepovers and she never wanted to miss an important event, proudly showing up to support and cheer them on. A favorite annual tradition was decorating Christmas cookies at Oma and Opa's house.

Gwen was a true prayer warrior and her faith was the foundation of her life. She loved her Lord and Savior deeply and her faith gave her strength, peace and hope throughout her life. She enjoyed her morning coffee and bible study time with Hank in their sunroom. Her family finds great comfort in knowing that she is now home pain free with the Lord she loved. Gwen attended Valley Family Church in Kalamazoo, MI where she served faithfully and cherished the dear friendships she made there.

Gwen was preceded in death by her parents and brother. She is survived by her husband, Hank Wolfis; her children, Tanya (Brian) Austin, Todd (Sonja) Bradfield, Steve (Ellen) Wolfis and Eric (Julie) Wolfis; 10 grandchildren & spouses; 7 great-grandchildren; sister Gail Kik; cousins, nieces and nephews and many precious friends. She loved her family dearly and they will carry on her memory and legacy of faith and love.