Obituaries: Aug. 16, 2026

Leon Beyer

December 8, 1930-August 13, 2026

Leon Beyer, age 95, of Holland, died Thursday, August 13. 2026.

Lee was born at home on December 8, 1930, in Holland, Michigan, the youngest of seven children born to Nicholas and Rolina Beyer.

From the earliest age, Lee showed extraordinary skill in creating things and especially loved electronics. As early as 8, he had wired up his “own light” on the back porch. By 14, he was working for Nelson Bosman, where he worked for 6.5 years. After this, he worked at Allen’s Radio Shop for another 1.5 years.

Lee’s interest in electronics led him to join the Electronic Unit of the Navy Reserves. This began a nine-year enlistment with the Reserves, although the four years before he was eighteen didn’t officially count.

In 1953, at 22 years of age, Lee began his own business, “Lee’s Radio & Television.” He bought his first home at 10 W. 35th St., for which he privately borrowed small sums, paid them off in 4.5 years, and never borrowed again. “Lee’s Radio & Television” continued operating from this home for 21 years.

Lee met Pearl when he repaired her television. He not only repaired the TV, but also installed some parts for free. He had to go back to the shop to get the parts, and Pearl later joked that he left to check her credit! They were married in 1964.

In 1975, “Lee’s Radio” was moved out of the house and to a shop a short distance away, near the corner of 35th and Washington, where he specialized in CB radios.

In 1980, Lee built a very unique house that ran on solar power, all his own design. It took him two years to build in his “spare time.”

Lee sold his business in 1984 and officially retired at 54 years old. Meanwhile, another house was in the works, which he also built himself entirely, and which was especially uniquely designed such that he could “heat it with a toaster” and monitor all of its special electronics by way of blinking light panels on the walls. After this, he did woodworking for a couple of years and made many beautiful handmade gifts for his children and grandchildren. His radio repair moved toward antique radios, and he sold his refurbished radios at Tulip City Antique Mall.

Lee was very well-known in the Holland area as an expert in radios and electronics, and a respected and honest businessman.

Aside from teaching his children the necessity of a personal relationship with the Lord, his philosophy was to: Earn honestly, Save regularly, Give generously, and Live modestly.

Lee was preceded in death by all of his siblings, Manley (Johanna) Beyer, Harriet (Gerrit) Jansen, Pat (Marinus) DeJonge, Gerald (Mildred) Beyer, Ange (Don) DeWitt, and Evelyn Beyer; son, Kim; grandson, Jacob; granddaughter, Julie, and daughter-in-law, Karen.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Pearl; his children, Nancy (Kevin) Hansen, Cathy (Paul) Diemer, Laura (Al) Stolz, Sandy (Lon) Eding, Cathy Naber, Linda (Randy) Kuipers, Jeff (Carol) Beyer, Lisa (Kurt) Drooger, Nick (Michelle) Beyer, Peter (Shelly) Beyer; 32 grandchildren; and 55 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at Central Avenue Christian Reformed Church, 259 Central Ave., Holland. Burial will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, August 18, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home.

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George D. Gillespie

March 20, 1933-August 12, 2026

George Dobson Gillespie (March 20, 1933-August 12, 2026), a native of Bowling Green, Kentucky, and son of Vivian Jepsen Gillespie and Merry Dobson Gillespie, graduated from Western Kentucky University in 1955.

He furthered his education by obtaining a master's degree in music education from Indiana University, where he also met Ruthmary Jones, who would become his wife of almost 65 years. They spent the first year of their marriage at Fort Bragg, N.C., where George served in the U.S. Army and where their first child, David, was born. They moved to Michigan, eventually settling in Royal Oak, a suburb of Detroit and welcoming their daughter, Carolyn.

George became a well-known band director and contributed immensely to the musical culture of the area, serving as instrumental music coordinator for the Royal Oak Public School system and, later on, as a community college professor and Director of Music for the South Oakland Concert Band. Both George and Ruthmary volunteered at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, and they touched innumerable lives through involvement in their church ministries.

Our dad was one of a kind, from his distinctive laugh to his uncanny ability to design and create furniture, carved wood, and stained-glass pieces. He was an avid golfer who enjoyed the company of his buddies more than the game. His faith, along with our mom's, prompted them to open their home to many who needed help and care, and also moved them to travel to Russia three times to support mission efforts there. They traveled the world-we were fortunate enough to spend summers taking old-fashioned road trips with maps to almost every state; their retirement RV continued the journey, along with trips to Europe and the Holy Land and multiple cruises. He was mostly a storyteller, a man who was not a "people person" in the political sense, but someone who lived best when he could share his experiences with those around him; ultimately, for those who knew him, it was these shared experiences that made him unforgettable.

He was preceded in death by his parents; an older brother, James, who died as an infant; and his wife, Ruthmary. He was also the last of the generation of Ruthmary's siblings and their spouses.

He is survived by David and wife Deborah Gillespie; their sons and families, Charles and Jenny Maldonado (daughters Adeline and Estelle), Andrew and Maddi Gillespie-Reeves (sons Elliot and Luca George); his daughter, Carolyn Gillespie; eight nieces and nephews and their families, and countless friends.

George and Ruthmary spent many summers volunteering at Camp Barakel, a Christian youth retreat in central Michigan. He has requested that donations be made to their continued efforts in lieu of flowers; checks can be made and sent to Camp Barakel, P.O. Box 159, Fairview, MI 48621. You may also contact Katelyn Leach at accounting@campbarakel.org and use the subject: "Donation for George Gillespie."

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George Guerrero

January 9, 1943-August 12, 2026

Robert "George" Guerrero, age 83, of Holland, passed away on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of love, memories, and the many people whose lives he touched.

George was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Armida, a loving father, and a proud and adoring grandfather. Family was at the heart of George’s life, and nothing brought him greater happiness than being surrounded by the people he loved.

George was a hard worker and took great pride in everything he did. After a stint at General Electric, he dedicated 50 years of his professional life to the real estate business. He approached his work with the same determination and dedication that he brought to every part of his life.

But George was never defined by his work. He was a man who loved being busy, useful, and involved. To George, relaxation often meant rolling up his sleeves and finding something to do. Whether working on a project at home or at the family cottage up north, he always seemed to have a project underway. He had a knack for running errands, solving problems, and making sure things got done. His family will fondly remember his willingness to help and his ability to turn even the simplest task into an opportunity to spend time together.

One of George’s greatest joys was coaching his children's soccer and softball teams. He loved being there on the field, encouraging his kids to work hard, believe in themselves, and always give their best. His presence as a coach was about much more than sports — it was another way he showed his children how much he loved them and how proud he was of them.

George also had a deep love for animals and nature. His dog, Caycee, held a special place in his heart, and he cherished time spent outdoors. He found happiness in the simple pleasures of life and in the moments shared with family, friends, and the animals he loved.

Music was another important part of George’s life. He was a talented drummer with his band, Ambush, and his love of music brought energy and joy to those around him. Through music, he created countless memories that his family and friends will carry with them for years to come.

George will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Armida Guerrero; his children, Gina and Tom Nilsen, Robert and Diana Guerrero; grandchildren, Lumen, Charlie, Ryan and Owen; and his many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents and all seven of his siblings.

George’s leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, dedication, laughter, hard work, and family. He will be remembered for his generous heart, his willingness to lend a hand, his love of a good project, his enthusiasm for music and the outdoors, and most of all, for the love he gave his family.

His family will miss his presence, his stories, his sense of purpose, and simply having him there. Though he is no longer with us, the love he shared and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

George’s life was a gift to his family, and his memory will be cherished always.

A special thanks to the Trinity Transplant team, the staff at Medilodge, Holland Hospital, Gina Guerrero Armstrong, and those who offered prayers and support to our family.

Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. on Friday, August 21, 2026, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland, MI 49423. Visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, August 20, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Harbor Humane Society.

To leave condolences online, please visit www.langelandsterenberg.com.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of George Guerrero, please visit our Sympathy Store.

Marilyn Lee Jauch

April 7, 1947-August 11, 2026

Marilyn Jauch, age 79, of Portage, passed away Tuesday, August 11, 2026, with family by her side.

Marilyn was born in Lyons, New York, to Otto and Genevieve Buckel on April 7, 1947. She graduated from Lyons High School and then voyaged to Chicago to attend Ray-Vogue College of Art and Design. In 1967, Marilyn was introduced to Bob Jauch. After three weeks of dating, Bob proposed, and they married on August 10, 1968. They raised two sons, Robert and Jeff.

Marilyn was a loving mother who never lost her passion for fashion and was always found sewing or creating flower arrangements as she raised her family. She enjoyed traveling with Bob, and she loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Marilyn is survived by her two sons and families: Jeff and Paula of Grand Rapids, Michigan, with grandchildren Adermo, Josie, Anjelino, and Josh, as well as three beautiful great-grandchildren, Ava, Beckham, and Caiah; Robert and Susie of Edmond, Oklahoma, with two grandchildren, Tommy and Danny; and her sister, Judy.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband, Bob; her parents; brother, Jim; and incredible granddaughter, Chelsea.

A celebration of Marilyn’s life will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, August 22, 2026, with visitation beginning at 11 a.m., at Cook Memorial Chapel, 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, Michigan 49418.

The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their online guestbook.

Shirley Jean Moench

November 6, 1934-August 13, 2026

Shirley Moench of Holland, Michigan, passed away on August 13, 2026.

A graveside service will take place at 1 p.m. on August 20 in Union Cemetery, 3349 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, OH 43202.

Gwen Rillema

September 18, 1963-August 12, 2026

Gwen Rillema, age 62, of Zeeland, loving wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.

She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Larry; her children and grandchildren, Nick and Anna Rillema (Colton, and Chet), Stacy and Jake Vollink (Sage, Jace, and Blair), Audrey and Andrew Borgman (Emilia, Madeline, and Noah), and Rees Rillema; her siblings, Wayne and Cheryl Arens, and Gayle and Keith Rillema; her father-in-law, Harley Rillema; her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Ken and Deb Rillema, Judy and Bob Meekhof, Lee and Lisa Rillema, Ruth and Tim Meekhof and Diane and Ed Dreyer, and many nieces and nephews.

Gwen was a lifelong member of Beaverdam Christian Reformed Church. She graduated from Unity Christian High School. Gwen worked at Walters Gardens for several years, and then she worked at Piers Feeds until she retired in 2026 to spend more time with her grandchildren. Gwen also faithfully worked alongside Larry on the family farm, where she loved her chickens, cats, and horses

Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Friday, August 14, 2026, in the fellowship room at Beaverdam Christian Reformed Church, 5166 64th St., Hudsonville. The funeral service to honor the life of Gwen will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, August 15, 2026, also at the church. Interment will be in Beaverdam Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Van Andel Institute. 

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Charyl Kay (Tiggelman) Swiftney

April 25, 1940-August 14, 2026

Charyl Kay Swiftney, age 86, of Grand Haven, passed away on Friday, August 14, 2026, at a local care facility.

She was born on April 25, 1940, in Grand Haven, Michigan, to the late Leonard and Wilhelmina (VanBogelen) Tiggelman. Charyl married Gene Russel Swiftney on October 25, 1958, in Grand Haven. He preceded her in death on March 28, 2014, after sharing 55 years of marriage.

Charyl attended Grand Haven High School and was a lifelong resident of Grand Haven. She attended Trinity Church Grand Haven and Life Church-Grand Haven and was a lifetime member of the VFW Auxiliary.

Charyl worked as a cook at Sporty's Bar & Grill for many years. She was a great cook who loved cooking and baking for others, especially for her churches, and would often share her home-cooked food with friends and family. Charyl loved being a grandmother and spending time with her grandchildren, going fishing, and her beloved cat, "Sassy."

Charyl will be lovingly remembered and missed by her two daughters, Yvonne "Vonnie" (Gary) Mayse and Roxanne "Rocky" (Ralph) Holmes; four grandchildren: Kacie (Herm) Schmidt, Brandon (Emme) Holmes, Dan Mayse, and Kaitlyn (Josh) Barrett; and her 12 great-grandchildren: Elizabeth, Addison, Logan, and Keagan Bylsma, Violet, Oliver, and Isaac Holmes, Kylie and Carter Barrett, Annie, Joey, and Addie Schmidt.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Gene; one brother; and her great-granddaughter, Kianna.

The funeral service for Charyl will take place at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at Trinity Church, Grand Haven, with Pastor Emmett Brown officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Heaven Can Wait Animal Haven or Operation Christmas Child c/o Samaritan's Purse.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Charyl Kay (Tiggelman) Swiftney, please visit our floral store.

Nelvia Jean Walters

August 1, 1940-August 12, 2026

Nelvia Walters, age 86, passed away on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.

Nelvia was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She expressed her love many times by looking for and obtaining the "perfect" gift for each recipient. She worked for many years and retired from Reliable Sports in downtown Holland. She enjoyed golfing, bowling, and jigsaw puzzles. She had a deep faith and worshiped at Bethel Church the majority of her life until its closing. She and Harvey became members of Third Christian Reformed in the last year. She was dearly loved and will be deeply missed.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Gerald Van Haitsma; stepson, Kevin Walters; sister, Arlene Morren; and brother, Duane Ten Broeke.

She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Harvey Walters; daughter, Ruth (Mark) Paulsen; son, David (Julie) Van Haitsma; stepdaughter, Barb (David) Scothorn; stepson, Brian (Tammy) Walters; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and extended family.

Visitation with the family is 10-10:45 a.m. Monday, August 17, 2026, at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland, MI 49464.

Funeral services are at 11 a.m. that same day, also at Yntema Funeral Home, with Rev. Mark Timmer officiating.

Burial will take place in Zeeland Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Nelvia's honor may be given to Northern Michigan Christian School at nmcs.us or by mail to 128 S. Martin St., McBain, MI 49657.

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