Faith Ellen Hodgman

Blueberry Pioneer Faith Ellen Hodgman age 81 of Grand Junction, Michigan died peacefully Saturday, October 24, 2015 at her home farm.  Faith was born September 2, 1934 in Highland Park, Michigan to John and Ruth (Feazel) Strong. Her parents were pioneers in the blueberry industry starting their blueberry farm in 1929.  In 1934 her father was instrumental in the formation of Michigan Blueberry Growers Association.  She worked on the blueberry farm all her life.   She was a member of MBG Marketing for over 40 years and was a recipient of the pioneer award.  

Faith was a 1952 graduate of Bangor High School.  She then earned her bachelor's degree in education from Western Michigan University.  Faith married Kenneth Hodgman on December 29, 1956.  She along with Ken owned and operated Hodgman Blueberry Plantation for many years until their son Chris took over the responsibilities.  Faith was a teacher for Fennville Public Schools.  Faith enjoyed many crafts such as knitting, sewing, quilting, stain glass, and calligraphy.  She was a member of the First Congregational Church of Grand Junction where she the treasurer and sang in the choir.  She was a member of Coloma Eastern Star.

Faith is preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Hodgman who died October 20, 2010.  She is also preceded in death by her brother, John Strong II.  Surviving are two daughters and one son - Lisa (James) Bodnar of North Branch, Michigan; Laura Hodgman of Sanford, Florida and Chris (Yuri) Hodgman of Grand Junction.   Six grandchildren - Nicholas (Courtney) and Gavin Bodnar. David, Daniel, Ruth Ellen and Christopher Jacob Hodgman. Her caregivers - Kelly and Jeff McKibben and her cats - Tiger and Dora.  

Visitation will be Saturday, October 31, from 1:00 - 4:00 PM at the Filbrandt Family Funeral Home in South Haven.  Funeral services will be Sunday, November 1, at 2:00 PM at the First Congregational Church of Grand Junction with Pastor Todd Van Grouw officiating.   Memorial contributions can be made to the First Congregational Church of Grand Junction. Faith will be laid to rest at the Grand Junction Cemetery.