Patricia A. Gilchrist (Bouwkamp), born 11/29/38, in Grand Rapids, MI and moved to DeWitt, MI in 1976. Pat retired to Wildwood, FL and Big Rapids, MI, eventually returning to Grand Rapids, MI where she passed away 9/14/18. Married 11/23/56 to Richard W. Gilchrist Sr., who survives her. Pat spent her career as an Office Manager in the Insurance and Medical Field. Pat was a wonderful person who was extremely intelligent, had a great sense of humor and was a voracious reader who passed her love of reading and the gift of intelligence to her children. Pat was predeceased by infant daughter, Susan L. Gilchrist, son Bruce E. Gilchrist, brother Gerald R. Bouwkamp (Phyllis) and sisters Hester A. Bouwkamp and Donna J. Wilkinson. Pat is survived by her husband of 61 years, children, Linda A. Gilchrist, Richard W. Gilchrist Jr., and Bonnie L. Gilchrist (Charlie Sarrell), brothers Burton H. Bouwkamp (Emme) and C. Craig Bouwkamp and brothers-in-law E. Michael Gilchrist (Katherine) and Joseph Wilkinson along with numerous nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews. Pat is also survived by special friends, Carol, Chad, Allysen and Gage Custer. A graveside ceremony will be held 9/22/18 at 12:00 p.m. at Chapel Hill Cemetery, Grand Rapids, MI, with visitation one hour before. Those desiring to remember Pat in a special way are asked to donate to www.faithhospicecare.org/give, in her memory.