Barbara S. Chardenet, age 91, of Novi, passed away Saturday, December 23, 2023.

Barbara was born April 18, 1932, in Queens Village, NY, the daughter of James and Estelle (Volk) Wills.

Barbara married Gilbert Chardenet on December 27, 1960, and he preceded her in death on December 19, 2011.

Barbara is the beloved mother of Nicole Chardenet and Brett (Kathy) Chardenet; loving grandmother of Brad and Lauren; dear sister of Keith Wills; and fond aunt of Adrian and Kristin.

She is remembered by friends and family as 'hilarious', including the aides who took care of her to the very end. She was always quick with a joke and not afraid to air her opinion; many throughout her life described her as 'a breath of fresh air'. She volunteered as a Pink Lady at Orange Memorial Hospital [now Orlando Regional Medical Center], and was a self-taught excellent cook; everyone raved about her Poulet Marengo.

Barbara's family will receive guests on Wednesday, December 27, 4-8 pm, at the funeral home.

A funeral service is planned for Thursday, December 28, 11 am (visitation beginning at 10 am), at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 201 N. River St., Ypsilanti.

Interment will take place at Glen Eden Memorial Park in Livonia.

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial tributes are suggested to the American Cancer Society or the Michigan Humane Society .