Willa Lynn Kersten

Willa Lynn Kersten, age 84, of Battle Creek, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2025 at her home surrounded by family. She was born on March 24, 1941 in Lansing, Michigan, the daughter of Gerald and Geraldine (Pinch) Knapp. Willa graduated from East Lansing High School in 1959, then received her bachelor’s degree from Alma College in 1963. In 1963 she moved to Battle Creek to make her home and taught Jr. High English and Social Studies at Southeastern until 1967. Willa’s life was marked by a deep, abiding faith in Jesus Christ. She came to trust Him at Battle Creek Bible Church where she and Norm served and fellowshipped for many years, and more recently was a member of BC Community Church. She enjoyed reading, skiing, tennis, and swimming, and was completely devoted to her family. Willa was united in marriage on August 9, 1964 in East Lansing, MI. to Norman Kersten, he survives. Also surviving are her children; Lisa (John) O’Keefe of Kalamazoo, and Steven (Carolyn) Kersten of Williamston, sister, Linda Schnake of Richland, grandchildren: Elisabeth O’Keefe, Michael O’Keefe, Christy (Austin) Atkinson, and John David O’Keefe; Jonathan (Abigail) Kersten, Katelyn Kersten, Lauren Kersten, and Andrew Kersten, and great-grandchildren, WillaKate Kersten and Juliette Atkinson. Funeral service scheduled for 11:00 A.M., Thursday, August 14, 2025 at BC Community Church, 1021 Wagner Drive, Battle Creek, where the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Rev. David Proulx officiating. Graveside service will take place at 11:30 a.m., Friday, August 15, 2025 at Fort Custer National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to BC Community Church or the charity of one’s choice. Memories and condolences may be left for the family at www.henryfuneralhome.org