Eva Fay Blades

Eva Fay (Ducharme) Blades, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, passed away on Sunday, September 20, 2026, in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She was born on October 12, 1947, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the daughter of Pina (Gaskins) Ducharme.

Eva spent much of her working life at Western Michigan University. She began working in the cafeteria before moving into a custodial position, where she remained until her retirement. Eva especially enjoyed interacting with the students and valued the connections she made during her years at the university. She missed working there after her retirement.

Eva had a natural talent for art and enjoyed expressing her creativity in many different ways. She especially loved oil painting and also enjoyed crafting. She made pinecone turkeys, book holders, and other handmade creations. She particularly enjoyed painting ceramic pieces shaped like animals and had a gift for bringing them to life with her artistic touch.

Animals held a special place in Eva's heart. She especially loved her three cats and regularly fed the squirrels around her home. She had a deep compassion for animals and disliked seeing them treated cruelly.

Eva also enjoyed spending time at the Comstock Community Center, where she liked gathering for lunch and participating in community events, including trips to the zoo. She appreciated the opportunity to be part of her community and enjoy time with others.

Eva was preceded in death by her parents.

Left to cherish her memory are her son, John Blades Jr.; and her grandson, John Blades III.

Memorials made in Eva's memory may be directed to the SPCA of Southwest Michigan, 6955 W KL Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49009.

In accordance with the family's wishes, cremation has taken place and no public services are planned.

Eva will be remembered for her artistic spirit, her kindness toward animals, and the simple joys she found in creating, caring, and connecting with the people and community around her.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Eva's guestbook and/or share a memory with her family.

The Blades family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI 49002. 269-344-5600.