Barbara A. Prins

Barbara’s life was marked by a deep love for her family and a generous spirit that touched everyone who knew her. She shared many joyful years with her beloved husband, William Prins, and together they built a life centered around love, laughter, and devotion to their children and grandchildren.

Throughout her career, Barb brought energy and dedication to every role she held. She worked at WOOD-TV 8 and WZZM-TV 13, contributing to the world of broadcasting during an era of great change. Her professional journey also included time at WCUZ radio station and later in education with Forest Hills Public Schools and Rockford Public Schools. In her later years, she pursued her passion for antiques through her beloved Dasabarn Antiques.

Barb had a creative soul and a keen eye for beauty. She found joy in sewing and quilting, often crafting intricate pieces that became treasured keepsakes. Her recent love of dollhouse crafting reflected both her attention to detail and her playful imagination. When she rarely stepped away from her crafts and puzzles, Barb watched Gilmore Girls on repeat, later calling her Monday night dinners with family and friends "Gilmore Girls Nights." Additionally, a visit to the casino was always a welcome adventure for Barb—she enjoyed the thrill of the game and the camaraderie with Bill that it brought.

Family was at the heart of Barb’s world. She is lovingly remembered by her daughter Kristin (Tom) Kemppainen; son Eric Prins; son-in-law Michael Nielsen; brother William (Mary) Hentig; grandchildren Taylor (Kory) Myers, Riley (Grace) Nielsen, Alyssa and Sydney Prins, Aleksi and Kiera Kemppainen; three great-granddaughters that she loved beyond words and so many nieces and nephews who shared in her love. Her warmth extended across generations throughout our extended family and their friends, creating lasting bonds filled with love and support.

She now joins in rest her husband William Prins; daughter Kelly Nielsen; brothers Bruce Langlois and James Hentig; and sister Jackie Fortier.

Barbara lived fully—with enthusiasm for life’s simple pleasures and unwavering devotion to those she loved. She gave freely of her time to others, always ready with a helping hand or kind word.

May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her and continue to inspire acts of kindness in the lives she touched.

 A Memorial l Mass will be held on December 5, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St Patrick's Catholic Church 4351 Parnell Ave NE with visitation with the family from 10:00-11:00 AM. Friends and family will gather after the service in the clubhouse at Leisure Village (5305 Circle Drive, Belmont, MI, 49306)

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Help Pregnancy Aid Center to support new mothers and their babies. 

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