Charlotte Ann Bouwkamp

Charlotte Ann Bouwkamp, age 72, passed away Thursday, February 12, 2026 at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She was born October 11, 1953 in Grand Rapids, Michigan to George and Kathleen (Brunn) Nota. Char earned her associates degree and worked at D&W Food Centers for 30 years in a variety of retail leadership positions.

 On January 20th, 1989, she married David Bouwkamp in Rockford, Michigan. Char was an active volunteer with organizations like Think Pink, North Kent Service Center, and the Rockford Chamber of Commerce. She spent her last year in Richland, Michigan, a thirty-second drive from her son and his family. They considered this move such an incredible blessing.

Survivors include her beloved husband, David Bouwkamp, her three children, Matthew (Rachel) Bouwkamp, Kathleen (Chris) Pitts, and Melissa (Chris) Starkey, and her six grandchildren: Benjamin, Jacob, Daniel, Joey, Hazel and Aidan. She is also survived by her sisters, Cindy (Alan) Quinn and Kris (Steve) Smith and sister-in-law, Lois Nota, with numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Kathleen and her brother, Terry. 

Char was best known for caring for her family. She was an amazing cook, best known for her spaghetti, and would buy butter in bulk, which was made into a family joke. She was adored by her children and loved spending time either Facetiming or visiting with her sweet grandchildren, who loved her more than “a bushel and a peck and a squeeze around the neck.” She loved being outside, having a party at the pool, and admiring her flowers. She was a life-long fan of the Kansas City Chiefs, with her nickname as ‘Mahomie.’ She was a listening ear with a loving response who will be endlessly missed.

The family will receive friends 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 18th at the Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, Richland Chapel where a time of sharing will begin at 1:00 p.m.  Please omit flowers. In lieu of flowers, memorials directed to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital would be appreciated.