Evelyn Nuffer, 73

Affectionately known as “The Chicken Lady”, Evelyn Alice Nuffer, age 73, of Three Rivers, died Sunday Aug. 23, 2009 following a brief illness.  She was born in Palmer, Alaska on June 28, 1936 the daughter John and Alice (DeGroat) Porter.  Generations have benefited from her volunteer work and generosity as a 4-H Leader.  She has assisted many children at the St. Joseph County Grange Fair in properly caring for and training their poultry.  The Chicken Lady loved spending time with the kids at the Fair, donated many trophies, and purchased numerous show birds at the auction.  She was recently recognized by the Michigan Poultry Fanciers with a plaque for her efforts.  She was also trained as a licensed Poultry Inspector by the State of Michigan.  The Chicken Lady also volunteered caring for the birds at Scidmore Park in Three Rivers.  She trained numerous birds to talk for local pet shops and bird lovers, sold ceramics, and delivered newspapers in the area.      

The Chicken Lady is survived by her father, Rev. John Porter and his wife, Carmen of Three Rivers;  3 children, Alice Porter of Three Rivers, Ken Porter (Kelly) of Fort Wayne, and Loretta Walker of Muskegon;  14 grandchildren;  several great-grandchildren;  3 brothers, Noel Porter (Ruby) of Mallott, WA, Morris Porter (Minota) of New Market, VA, and Steve Porter (Marilyn) of Cedar Lake; a sister in law, Judy Porter of Evart, WA; and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by he mother, Alice Porter; her twin brother, Doyle Porter; and still born infant twins.  

A graveside service for The Chicken Lady was held at 3 p.m. on Tuesday Aug. 25, 2009 in South Park Cemetery at the corner of Heimbach and Darr Roads with Rev. Keith Phillips, Pastor of the Three Rivers, Centreville, and Kalamazoo Countryside Seventh Day Adventist Churches officiating.  Immediately following services, all are invited to the Poultry Barn at the St. Joseph County Fairgrounds for a time of food and fellowship. Memorials may be directed to the family through the Eickhoff Farrand Halverson Chapel at 305 Rock River Ave., Three Rivers, MI 49093.  Online register is available at www.efhchapel.com