Obituaries: April 6, 2026
Donna J. Bastien
July 8, 1930-March 25, 2026
Donna Jean (Irwin) Bastien, age 95, passed away on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband and “soulmate,” Rodger; her parents, Arthur and Dorothy Irwin; her brothers, Jack and Bill Irwin; and her granddaughter, Sara Schoen.
When Donna married Rodger on October 14, 1976, she had three children, and he had six. Their nine surviving children are: Pamela (John) Kellogg, Diana St. Amant, Susan Kramer, Rodger (Jen) Bastien, Cheryl Johnston, Gary (Kathy) Bastien, Karen (Lisa Bancuk) Bastien, Janet (Tom) Bailey and Paul Bastien.
These nine children blessed them with 21 grandchildren: John, III and Chad Kellogg, Amanda Kitchen, Jackie Kaschyk, Scott St. Amant, Kelsi Jenison, Sara Schoen, Tyler, Adam and Zachary Johnston, Katie White, Betsy Griffin, Carter, Brady and Steven Bastien, Sarah Fornaess, Nathan and Phoebe Bailey, Lauren Schwallier, and Trevor and Brenna Bastien.
They have 24 great-grandchildren: Gabby, Jack and Ava Kellogg, Abigail and Alex Kaschyk, James and Mitchell Kitchen, Zoe and Natalie Jenison, Graysen, Beckett, Lennon, Alex and Finn Johnston, Cecilia and Julia White, Will and Jack Bastien, Claire and MaryBeth Griffin, Anika and Andreas Fornaess, Cleo Unger and Nolan Bastien.
“Mama Donna,” as her “other girls” (Terri Nausieda, Barb Mester, Brenda Baird, Chris Johnson and Janet Thornbury) called her, was a kind and beautiful soul whose Catholic faith was very strong. She was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Grand Haven until her passing.
She loved her faith, family and friends above all, but she had a passion for country music, sports, watching her birds in the courtyard, good food, and flowers. Her love of flowers led her to work for Smith Floral in Lansing and later, Molesta Floral in Wyoming, Michigan. She also worked at Rogers Department Store and Beverly’s Clothing Store in the 1970s.
Per her wishes, there will be no funeral. A private family interment will take place at Resurrection Cemetery when the spring flowers are blooming.
There is a celebration of life planned for July 8 (her birthday) in the pavilion at Douglas Walker Park from 2-7 p.m. Her family, friends, and those who knew her are welcome to come and share a favorite memory of her.
Rest in peace, Mama. Go Blue!
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Donna J. Bastien, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Betty June Blackport
June 20, 1936-April 3, 2026
Betty June Blackport passed on April 3, 2026, at the age of 89.
No services are scheduled at this time.
Nancy Susanne Bussis
March 12, 1935-March 13, 2026
Nancy Susanne Bussis, age 91 of Jenison, Michigan, passed away Friday, March 13, 2026.
She was a bold and brilliant woman with a quick wit and no tolerance for nonsense. Her life was spent as a trailblazer, tackling adversity with determination and grace. Nancy was spontaneous and well-traveled, never letting anything slow her down. She was a fierce wife, mother, and matriarch spanning her 91 years. Often, you’d find someone pouring their heart out at her kitchen table over a cup of coffee, getting the best advice in return. Her warm hugs and open heart for people from every corner of society will be forever cherished and deeply missed.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Anthony Bussis; children, Gary Bussis, Laurie Lacy, and Barbara Williams; son-in-law, Roger Spriggs; brothers, Ronald Stowitts, Larry Stowitts, Howard Chard; and great-great-grandson, Dante Green.
She is dearly remembered by her daughter, Karen Spriggs; grandchildren, Nancy (Carl) Dexter, Lillian (Tom) Munguia, Aaron Bussis, Kassandra (Drew) Gray, Noelle Spriggs (Austin Hoekstra), Dalton Spriggs, Cody (Jessica) Lacy, Kyle (Emma) Lacy, Randy (Sarah) Hall, Kira (Matt) Caouette; many great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren and extended family; and best friend of 57 years, Kathy VerKerk.
Visitation will be at 3 p.m. Friday, April 10, 2026, with a memorial service at 4 p.m. at Cook Memorial Chapel, 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, Michigan. Interment will take place at Rosedale Memorial Park Cemetery in Walker. The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their online guestbook.
David Frye
August 23, 1956-April 2, 2026
On Thursday, April 2, 2026, David Frye unexpectedly passed into eternity. Because of his personal relationship with Jesus Christ, he is now resting with his Savior.
David was preceded in death by his parents, James and Della Frye, as well as his parents-in-law, John and Mona Stobbe.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 46.5 years, Sharon Frye (Stobbe); their children Jodi and Mike Riemersma (Emily, Caleb, and Nathan), Alex Frye and Charu Ganesh, and Kelynn and Matthew Rodriguez (Jameson, Easton, Hudson, and Deacon). David is also survived by his siblings, James and Julie Frye, and Linda Frye, who will deeply grieve his loss.
He is further survived by his in-law siblings Dave and Hang Stobbe, Phil and Carrie Stobbe, Marcia and John Duel, and Carole and Rick VanDam.
David loved working outdoors. He spent 35 years delivering mail as a rural carrier in Jenison, Michigan. In addition, he farmed many acres and founded Frye Custom Lawn Care.
David had a lifelong love of sports. He played tennis and football at Jenison High School and briefly played football at Grand Valley State University. He later shared his passion by coaching Little League in Georgetown for many years, leading multiple All-Star teams to championships. He also coached softball at various levels for several area schools.
David rarely missed an opportunity to watch his grandchildren play baseball and softball, offering encouragement and instruction along the way.
Above all, David had a deep passion for Jesus Christ. He lived out his faith through grace, mercy, and loving kindness toward others. His remarkable ability to forgive was a true gift, and he was known by many as a peacemaker.
Visitation will be held from 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Cook Memorial Chapel, 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, Michigan. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Rock Urban Church, 3710 Chicago Drive SW, Grandville, Michigan, with visitation one hour prior. A luncheon will follow. Private graveside services will be held at West Drenthe Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Rock Urban Church. The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their online guestbook.
Barbara J. Gillihan
February 3, 1941-April 2, 2026
Barbara Jane Gillihan, age 85, of Holland, died Thursday, April 2, 2026, at her home.
A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland.
Burial will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, April 7, at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be given to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (stjude.org).
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Barbara J. Gillihan, please visit our Sympathy Store.
John Hellman
October 31, 1925-April 3, 2026
The steady hand of John Keith Hellman, 100 years old, of Allendale, eased to rest on April 2, 2026.
He was a man who measured his life in relationships: the children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who surrounded and looked up to him, the friends who showed up to golf or bowl with him, and the family members who knew he could be counted on to always reach out to help.
Born in Harvey Illinois on October 31, 1925, John (who as a child was always called Keith by his family) grew up on a farm in Northern Michigan. John spent a great many of his working years at Lear Siegler. He also spent time with his brother Earl running a fishing and vacation resort called Mana Pine in Manistee, Michigan. He loved the water and continued waterskiing right up to his 75th birthday. John was recognized for his service in World War II.
In 2019, after 71 years of marriage, John was preceded in death by the love of his life, Verna (Hess) Hellman.
He is survived by his children, Lynn (Bernie) Schmidt, Kevin (Karen) Hellman, Kim (Robert) Bolthouse; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Cook Memorial Chapel, 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, Michigan, with visitation prior to the service beginning at 10 a.m. Pastor Larry Alverson will be officiating. Interment will be at Georgetown Cemetery. In honor of John, contributions may be made to a charity of your choice. The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.
Brad Preston Kolean
June 23, 1963-April 1, 2026
Brad Preston Kolean passed on April 1, 2026, at the age of 62.
No services are scheduled at this time.
Vadim Matkurbanov
May 29, 1982-April 1, 2026
Vadim Matkurbanov, age 43, went to be with his Lord on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
He will be lovingly remembered by his mother, Maria Matkurbanova; wife of 15 years, Vera Murzayeva; children, Veronika Stiles, Vladislav Murzayev, and David Matkurbanov; grandchildren, Roman Stiles and Mila Kuzekov; brother, Dmitriy Marinov; as well as many dear relatives and friends.
Visitation with Vadim’s family and friends will be held from 5-7 p.m. Monday, April 6, 2026, at Cook Memorial Chapel, 4235 Prairie Street SW, Grandville, Michigan 49418. Funeral services for Vadim will be at noon on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Cook Memorial Chapel.
The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.
Ted Allen Smallegan
July 11, 1963-April 1, 2026
Ted Smallegan, age 62, passed away on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
Ted was a "Jack of ALL trades" and worked for a variety of places over the years. He was a dedicated hard worker who sometimes had a short fuse. His brothers were the benefactors of him being the older brother and learned a ton from his trials and errors through life. He was a caring dad, loved, and will be missed.
He was preceded in death by his son, Joshua Allen Smallegan, and his parents, Peter Martin and Arloa Jean Smallegan.
He is survived by his son, Kaleb Smallegan (Harper); daughter, Daniele and Logan Estepp (Wyatt); brother, Dave and Lori Smallegan; brother, Mark and Melinda Smallegan; nieces and nephews, Heather Smallegan, Kellie Smallegan (fiancé, Colt Engelsman), John and Nicole Smallegan, Jacob and Jolyn Smallegan (Jolie, Jocelyn, Jaxton, Jalaina, Jadalyn, Jeorgia), Jace Smallegan, Jenna Smallegan; and special friend of Marty - Lavonne Walters.
Visitation with the family is 4-6 p.m. on Sunday, April 5, 2026, at Yntema Funeral Home 251 S. State St., Zeeland, MI 49464.
Funeral services are at 10 a.m. on Monday, April 6, 2026, at Forest Grove Reformed Church, 1630 32nd St., Hudsonville, MI 49426, with Pastor Doug Hoeve officiating.
Burial to take place in Forest Grove Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in Ted's honor may be given to Hudsonville County Fair at P.O. Box 189, Hudsonville, MI 49426.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Ted Allen Smallegan, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Vivian Jean Strauss
April 25, 1949-April 2, 2026
Vivian Strauss, age 76, was born on April 25, 1949, and went to be with her Lord on Thursday, April 2, 2026.
Vivian was preceded in death by her parents, Linus and Geraldine Knieper.
She will be remembered by her husband, Ronald Strauss; children, Kimberly (Doug) Remtema; Mark (Angela) Strauss; grandchild, Caleb Strauss; siblings, Lynn (Nancy) Knieper; Yvonne (Robert) Robinson; mother-in-law, Phyllis Strauss, many nieces, nephews and friends.
Vivian Strauss was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She was married to Ronald Strauss on November 15, 1975. The couple met while working together at Meijer grocery store and, in 2025, they celebrated 50 years of a wonderful marriage. They raised two children, Kimberly and Mark, and enjoyed spending time visiting local attractions and festivals. Their shared Christian faith was a pillar of their marriage and life.
Vivian's joyful personality was one of her most noticeable and greatest traits. She always focused on the positive in situations and offered kindness and comfort to all. She possessed a zest for life, enjoyed the simple things like a beautiful pink sunset, a full moon shining through the clouds, and admiring gorgeous flowers. Her smile and laugh were contagious and uplifting. She greatly appreciated God's creatures and would spend time watching nature shows or taking a leisurely stroll around her neighborhood.
Prior to her passing, her days were spent with her husband in a nursing home where they played bingo, attended parties, worked on puzzles, which was a favorite pastime, and they were smitten with each other's company. She will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed by all who knew her.
A celebration Mass of Vivian’s life will commence at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, with a visitation one hour prior at St. Pius X, 3937 Wilson Ave. SW, Grandville, MI 49418.
In honor of Vivian, flowers are welcome and can be sent to St. Pius X Church. Internment will be held following the service at 2 p.m. The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their guest book online.
Elaine Mildred Teall
December 12, 1947-March 31, 2026
Elaine Teall died on March 31, 2026, of pancreatic cancer, and the world is a darker and emptier place without her.
After raising three children, teaching for 42 years, caring for her mother and then her husband as their health declined, she had earned the right to simply enjoy her life on her own terms for a few years — but, as it does for so many people, cancer stole that from her.
Elaine was born in Freeport, New York, on December 12, 1947, to Margaret and Edwin Carlin. She had an older brother, Eddie, who died of Hodgkin's Lymphoma at age 30, and two younger sisters, Cynthia and Dorothy.
Her parents claimed that she started out as an impossibly stubborn child, but they managed to turn her into a perfect young lady. As a teenager, Elaine attended Moravian Academy in Pennsylvania and then headed to Hope College (Class of 1969). Her parents hoped she would get her degree and return home to New York; Elaine dreamed of becoming an airline stewardess and traveling the world.
Neither happened; instead, she met and married Gary Teall, the love of her life and her total opposite in almost every way, and settled down in Holland. She started teaching in Coopersville Area Public Schools, where she would remain for the next 42 years. Her fellow teachers became lifelong friends, and she became the favorite teacher of literal generations of middle school students.
Elaine and Gary raised three children, Eric, Maggie, and Kathy. Elaine made teaching all day and parenting all night look so easy that her children all became teachers and parents as well — and only then did they realize how positively heroic their mom was. At age 40, while her children were still very young, Elaine was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma. She suffered through a year of brutal treatments, which the doctors warned her would each take a year off of her life, but she persisted. Nonetheless, she was diagnosed with a relapse of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2004 and pancreatic cancer in the summer of 2025.
In her retirement, Elaine attended nearly every recital, concert, and athletic event her eight grandchildren (Alissa, Graham, Robbie, Lila, Grayson, Charlotte, Blake, and Kai) participated in, and swooped in to save the day any time her three adult children needed her. She volunteered in many capacities at First United Methodist Church of Holland, where she was a faithful and lifelong member, spent time with her Coopersville retiree friends, and kept fit and made wonderful new “Zumba friends” at Evergreen Commons. These friends rallied around her over the past year, driving her to treatments, rushing her to the emergency room, bringing her meals, and keeping her company until the very end.
Elaine loved waterparks, swimming in the ocean, Les Misérables, and mystery novels. She traveled to Japan, Alaska, Portugal, Austria, and England. She was calm and refined in a rowdy family — when it was her turn to choose what tape (yes, tape) to listen to on family road trips, she often chose thirty minutes of silence. She was Michigan Middle School Teacher of the Year in 2010. She gave great advice. She was fiercely loyal. Her patience and kindness were legendary. No obituary could adequately capture the life she led and the gaping hole that is now in the hearts of those who loved her.
Elaine is preceded in death by her parents, Margaret and Edwin Carlin, her brother Eddie Carlin, and her husband, Gary Teall. She is survived by her sisters, Cynthia Drake and Dorothy Carbone, her lifelong friend Mary Miller, her three children and their spouses: Eric Teall (Jenni), Maggie Teall (Mark Beaver), and Kathy Teall (Nick Vartanian), and eight grandchildren: Alissa and Robbie Teall, Graham, Lila, and Charlotte Beaver, and Grayson, Blake, and Kai Vartanian, and countless others whose lives she touched in her 78 years on Earth.
A memorial service will be at 4:30 p.m. April 24 at First United Methodist Church in Holland. In lieu of flowers, donations to Faith Hospice or The Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research are welcome.
