Obituaries: April 24, 2026
Shirley Ann Alberts
November 17, 1938-April 23, 2026
Shirley Ann Alberts, born on November 17, 1938, in Kankakee, Illinois, passed away on April 23, 2026, in Grand Haven, Michigan, leaving behind a life marked by love, devotion, and quiet strength.
Shirley was married to Gary Alberts for 52 years, who preceded her in death. Together, they built a life focused on their family and long-standing commitment.
She was a devoted and loving mother to her three children, Sue Overkamp of West Olive, Michigan, Bruce Alberts of Ludington, Michigan, who also preceded her in death, and Sherri Dean of San Diego, California.
Shirley took great pride in her children and found joy in the bonds they shared as a family. Her love for them was constant and unwavering, and her influence will continue to be felt in the lives they lead and the memories they will carry forward.
Shirley is survived by her family, including her brother, Ron Gerdes; brother-in-law, Austin Howard; son-in-law, Mark Overkamp; daughter-in-law, Tami Alberts; and son-in-law, Dan Dean. She also leaves behind seven grandchildren, Lee DeMint, Laura DeMint, Nicole Dean, Blake Dean, Hailey Dean, Kelli Morrison, and Jessica Cracraft, as well as 12 great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Each of them held a special place in her heart.
In addition to her husband and son, Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, John and Lela Gerdes of Ashkum, Illinois; her sister, Karen Howard of Gilman, Illinois, and her sister-in-law, Cheryl Gerdes of Ashkum, Illinois. Her family history and deep roots in Illinois were an important part of her story, and the memory of those who went before her remained close to her heart.
Shirley lived in Fort Myers, Florida, for 31 years, where she enjoyed many friends and spent time playing cards. Those years were filled with companionship and simple pleasures, and she found happiness in the friendships she formed and the routines she enjoyed. She appreciated the value of good company and brought warmth and friendliness to every circle she entered. Her time in Fort Myers was a meaningful chapter in her life, one that reflected her ability to build lasting relationships.
Those who knew Shirley will remember her as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She lived a long and meaningful life, and her memory will remain a source of comfort to her family and all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed.
A private family graveside will take place at Ashkum Cemetery in Ashkum, Illinois.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Shirley, please visit our floral store.
Michael Belcher
January 7, 1971-April 20, 2026
With sadness and broken hearts, we share that Michael Brent Belcher left this temporary home on April 20, 2026, and is now with the Jesus he loved and worshiped.
Brent was born on January 7, 1971, in Louisville, Kentucky. Although Brent was born blind, he faced every challenge bravely and with a smile. He spent two years at the Michigan School for the Blind, then went to Lansing Public Schools, then graduated from Lansing Christian High School and received an associate degree from Lansing Community College.
Brent is survived and missed dearly by his parents, Dr. Harold (Bud) Belcher and Anita (Jeanie) Belcher; his devoted sister, Dr. Amy Schelling, supportive brother-in-law, Rob Schelling; loving niece, Erin Schelling Stoffers; and nephew-in-law, Mark Stoffers.
Brent was preceded in death by his grandparents, Juanda and JD Jennings, and Harold and Opal Belcher.
Brent will always be remembered by his infectious smile, his love of the lord, his love of music, and the joy he brought to all who knew him. A celebration of Brent’s life will be held on April 30, 2026, at Fellowship Reformed Church of Holland. Visitation will be at 10:30 a.m., service at 11:30 a.m., followed by lunch at the church.
Anyone who would like to honor Brent’s memory may donate to Fellowship Reformed Church and consider registering as an organ donor.
Professional services entrusted to Dykstra Funeral Home - Northwood Chapel.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael, please visit our floral store.
Craig Duane Betcher
December 3, 1952-April 9, 2026
Craig Duane Betcher was born in Lansing, Michigan, on December 3, 1952, to Phyllis (Rice) and EJ Betcher and died recently in Holland, Michigan, at the age of 73.
He grew up in Mason, graduating from Mason High School, class of 1971. He worked for several retailers in Lansing before moving to Holland to work for Gentex, from which he retired.
Craig was a kind and gentle man. He loved his dogs, cats, woodworking, riding motorcycles, and everything Harley-Davidson. He had a knack for remembering birth and wedding dates, and other minute details. He fancied himself to be a family historian and told a lot of stories. They may not have always been factual, but told with such authority they seemed believable.
He is survived by his brother, Scott Betcher; sister, Carol Betcher Noud (William); nephews John Noud (Ashleigh), Connor Noud (Hannah); niece, Katie Yagihashi (Brandon); great-nephews, Finn, Parker, and Oliver Noud; great-niece, Celine Yagihashi; good friend and ex-wife, Lorena Betcher; and extended family.
The family would like to thank the staff of Russ' Restaurant on River Street for feeding Craig most days and for Aurora and Amy for caring enough to check up on him when he didn't show up for his daily meals and conversation.
A memorial luncheon to honor Craig will be 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Thursday, May 14, at Russ' Restaurant, 210 River Ave., Holland, Michigan. Come share stories and enjoy some food at Craig's favorite hangout.
Family graveside services will be conducted later this summer in the Mason area.
The Betcher family is being served by the Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, to leave condolences online, please visit langleandsterenberg.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Craig Duane Betcher, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Mary Lou Blok
November 10, 1939-April 20, 2026
Mary Lou Blok, age 86, of Spring Lake, passed away Monday, April 20, 2026, at Corewell Health Grand Rapids Hospitals – Butterworth Hospital.
She was born on November 10, 1939, in Grand Rapids, to Peter and Bertha (VanDerZee) Hoek. Mary Lou married John Blok on May 5, 1961, at the Twelfth Street Christian Reformed Church.
Mary Lou graduated from Grand Rapids Christian School, then earned her Licensed Practical Nurse LPN degree at Grand Rapids Junior College. Her working career as a nurse began at Butterworth Hospital and later at Christian Rest Home. She enjoyed knitting, traveling, and going to the Farmers Market. Most of all she loved spending time with her family, especially her grandkids and great-grandkids.
She is lovingly remembered by her two sons, Ed (Linda) Blok, and Paul (Michelle Ploughman) Blok; three grandchildren: Eric (Cheryl) Blok, Katelyn Blok, and Abby Blok; two great-grandchildren, Nora Blok and Elliot Blok; three sisters: Her twin sister, Margaret Ritsema, Barb (Ron) Hazelwood, Patricia “Pat” Slagter. She was preceded in death by her husband, John Blok, on November 2, 2023, and brother-in-law, Robert “Bob” Slagter.
A private family service will be held. Arrangements entrusted to the Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, Michigan 49456. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at sytsemafh.com.
Bryant Gray Christensen
October 18, 1961-December 14, 2025
Bryant Gray Christensen, age 64, of Spring Lake, passed away unexpectedly at home on Sunday, December 14, 2025.
He was born on October 18, 1961, in Richfield, Utah, to the late Jeff and Kathy (Peterson) Christensen. Bryant married Staci Beute on October 4, 1997, in Spring Lake.
Bryant graduated from Richfield High School and earned an associate's degree from DeVry Institute of Technology. He built a successful career in Telecommunications as a Sales Engineer and was an active member of the Masonic Lodge #139 (Grand Haven), where he was raised on October 13, 2012, to Master Mason and served as a past Worshipful Master.
Bryant valued family above all. He was a loving husband and proud father who led by example -always striving to be a better man. His kindness and patience touched everyone he met, and he had a gift for offering guidance and mentorship. Whether through quiet acts of generosity or words of encouragement, Bryant inspired others to live with integrity and compassion.
A devoted fan of the University of Utah Utes Football, the Detroit Tigers, and the Detroit Lions, Bryant also loved skiing and was a former President of the Wasatch Telemark Association. He cherished the freedom of riding his Harley and especially enjoyed traveling with his wife. His example of kindness, patience, and integrity will continue to guide those who knew him.
Bryant will be forever remembered and deeply missed by his loving wife of 28 years, Staci; their two sons, Gray and Jeffrey Christensen; sister, Holly (Ron) Jorgensen; brother, Matt (Sharie) Christensen; mother-in-law, Sandy Van Singel; sisters-in-law, Heather (Aaron) Lowe and Rita (Stevens) Wharton-Bickley; brothers-in-law, Matthew Beute and Bruce (Robin) Bowditch; along with many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents and parents-in-law, Harvey and Sandra Beute.
Please join the family in celebrating and honoring his incredible life the way he would have, with love, laughter, food and drinks, and great stories (bring your best memories). A celebration of his life will be 3-6 p.m. Sunday, May 3, 2026, at the American Legion, Charles A. Conklin Post 28 (Upstairs Hall), Grand Haven.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bryant Gray Christensen, please visit our floral store.
Marjorie Mae Deweerd
December 30, 1936-April 24, 2026
Marjorie Mae Deweerd passed away on April 24, 2026, at the age of 89.
Marjorie Mae Deweerd was born on December 30, 1936, to Ernest and Mary (Fosdick) VandenBerg in Holland and was a lifelong resident of the area. She worked for over 20 years in the West Ottawa School System, helping serve lunches to students.
Marjorie was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Krystal DeWeerd.
She is survived by her husband of 70 years, Gerald DeWeerd; children, Rick (Krista) DeWeerd, Vicky (Scott) Joldersma, and Craig (Sue) DeWeerd; eight grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; brother, Bernard VandenBerg; many extended family and friends.
A graveside service will take place at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at North Holland Cemetery.
Please visit lakeshorememorial.com for further information.
Angelen Ruth Geurink
August 28, 1927-April 21, 2026
Angelen "Ruth" Geurink, age 98, of Mishawaka, Indiana, and formerly of Holland, Michigan, passed away Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at North Wood Village in Mishawaka, Indiana.
Ruth was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in Holland, Michigan, and Twin City Baptist Church in Mishawaka, Indiana. She worked for many years at Meijer Inc. until her retirement.
Ruth was preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Elvin, in 2001; sister, Hazel and Harold Dirske; and brother, Vern and Louise Kruithof.
Ruth is survived by her children, Rev. James Allen (Donna) Geurink of Valparaiso, Indiana, Karen Joy (Rev. Jerry) Bell of Mishawaka, Indiana; grandchildren, Michael Geurink, Michele Geurink, Marlene Geurink, Jeff (Leslee) Bell, Jason (Angela) Bell, Jeremy (Stephanie) Bell and James (Carody) Bell; 18 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; and brother-in-law, Gerald Haveman of Borculo.
Visitation is scheduled for 10-10:45 a.m. Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland. Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Rev. James Geurink will officiate. Burial will be in Pilgrim Home Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Twin City Baptist Church and Ascent Hospice. Condolences may be left online at langelandsternberg.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Angelen Ruth Geurink, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Judith Lynn McClain
October 1, 1941-April 22, 2026
Judith Lynn McClain passed on April 22, 2026, at the age of 84, having been born on October 1, 1941, and residing in Jenison, Michigan.
No services are scheduled at this time.
David Lee Nederveld
May 28, 1943-April 9, 2026
David Nederveld of Grand Rapids passed away on Thursday, April 9, 2026.
A landscape architect, he was known for his designs at the Meijer Garden site and greenhouse, Frank Lloyd Wright’s Meyer May House, the Philo Fuller House, the Steelcase headquarters, and many other commercial and residential landscapes.
All who knew David would agree on his kindness, generosity, and keen sense of humor. As quick with a pun as a kind word, David was a true gentleman. Some of his pastimes included playing with model trains with his grandchildren, enjoying windmill cookies, and exploring the 40 acres of woods around his former home in Lowell.
David was born at St. Mary’s in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Marvin and Johanna Nederveld and older siblings Les and Marilyn. Two other siblings died in childbirth. He graduated from Grandville High School and went on to attend Michigan State University, majoring in landscape architecture. Inspired by the works of Fredrick Law Olmsted, with whom he shared a love of nature, he always sought natural, flowing designs, often with his signature plant, the Harry Lauder’s walking stick.
David is survived by his wife, Martha McGavic, whom he married in 1983; son, Andy Nederveld, and his wife, Sharon Teska, and their daughters Sadie and Camille; stepson, Hunter Barr, and his children Pauline, Anna, Nathan; and stepson, Joel Barr, and his wife, Nora, and sons Dexter and Forrest.
The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their online guestbook.
No services are scheduled at this time.
Bonnie Louise (Strange) Stone
July 29, 1934-April 22, 2026
Bonnie Louise Stone, age 91, of Grand Haven, passed away on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, peacefully at home surrounded by loving family.
She was born on July 29, 1934, in Grand Ledge, Michigan, to the late Harold Strange and Ruth (Sines) O'Callaghan. Bonnie married Theron Ralph Stone on May 30, 1952, in Grand Haven.
Bonnie graduated from Grand Haven High School and was the owner and operator of TBon Blueberry Farms and Stone's Evergreens for many years. She was a longtime member of the United Methodist Church of the Dunes and a member of Velda Rose United Methodist Church in Mesa, Arizona, where she and Theron wintered for 30 years.
Bonnie was a former member of The Order of the Eastern Star and was an avid golfer in her church league, an avid reader, and enjoyed knitting and crocheting. She especially enjoyed genealogy as a hobby.
Bonnie will be lovingly remembered and missed by her loving husband of 73 years, Theron; two daughters, Debé Ruth (Daniel) Zeh of Manistee, and Pamela Sue (Fred) Vellmure of Grand Blanc; her son, Theron Rick (Beth) Stone; grandchildren: Michele (Chris) Gordon, Kathlyn (Jeff) Born, Kylene (Ross) Smith, Stefan (Josh) Hull, Theron Mike (Jen) Stone, Ashlee Stone, and Britney (Tyler) Hager; step-grandchildren, Garrison and Ellee Osborne; 18 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Margaret Strange; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Robert Strange, and brother-in-law, Robert Stone.
The funeral service for Bonnie will be at noon Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at the United Methodist Church of the Dunes, with Pastor Lou Grettenberger officiating. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the service at the church 10 a.m.-noon. Interment will be at Pilgrim Home Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Harbor Hospice or the United Methodist Church of the Dunes.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bonnie Louise (Strange) Stone, please visit our floral store.
