Obituaries: Aug. 19, 2026

Edward Lee Cano

May 8, 1974-August 10, 2026

Edward Lee Cano, age 52, of Holland, Michigan, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2026, surrounded by the love and memories of those who meant so much to him.

Edward, affectionately known as Eddie, was a devoted father, son, partner, brother, and friend. He was a funny, kind, generous, and selfless man who brought laughter and warmth wherever he went. To those who knew him, Eddie was simply a great guy, someone who could be counted on, someone who cared deeply, and someone whose presence made life a little brighter.

Above all else, Eddie cherished being a dad to his daughter, Nolani. She was the light of his life and the source of immense pride and joy. The love he had for her was unmistakable, and the memories they made together will remain a treasured part of her life forever.

Eddie found happiness in the simple pleasures of life and in sharing those moments with the people he loved. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, drawing and creating art, attending concerts, and spending time with family and friends. He loved firing up the grill for a good BBQ, gathering around a warm fire, and enjoying good conversation and good company. His beloved dogs, Mocha and Milo, were also an important part of his life and brought him endless companionship and joy.

Eddie leaves behind a loving family who will carry his memory in their hearts: his daughter, Nolani Cano of Holland, Michigan; his parents, Delmiro and Gloria Cano of Holland, Michigan; his wife, Melissa DeLeon-Cano of Holland, Michigan; and Melissa's daughters, Bianca and Genevieve, along with their children. He is also survived by his brothers, Raymond (Lupita) Cano of Holland, Michigan; Samuel (Lillian) Cano of Zeeland, Michigan; and Eric (Christina) Cano of Zeeland, Michigan.

He will also be lovingly remembered by his many nieces and nephews, cousins near and far, extended family, and countless close friends whose lives were touched by his friendship and kindness.

Though his time with us was far too short, Eddie leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, friendship, and cherished memories. The stories shared around a dinner table, the laughter among friends, the family gatherings, the music, the fishing trips, the golf outings, the BBQs, and the quiet evenings around the fire will all serve as reminders of a life well lived and a man deeply loved.

Eddie will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved him. His memory will live on in his daughter, his family, his friends, and in all the lives he touched along the way.

Services have taken place.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Edward, please visit our floral store.

James Henry Davies

June 7, 1935-August 14, 2026

James (Jim) Davies, born on June 7, 1935, in Wakefield, Michigan to Bernice and James Davies, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2026 in Holland, Michigan.

He lived a life defined by generosity, integrity, service and devotion to his family. A loving and committed husband for 69 years, cherished dad, proud grandpa and great- grandpa and a loving brother, cousin and uncle, Jim was the steady heart of our family.

Jim spent a short time in the Upper Peninsula before moving to Muskegon Heights with his family. While attending Muskegon Heights High School, he met Barbara Kruizenga, whom he married in August of 1957, following his graduation from the University of Michigan, where he played football, and hers from Hope College. They continued visiting Ann Arbor to cheer on their favorite team, the Michigan Wolverines, for decades. Barbara and Jim began their family in Muskegon, moving briefly to Utica on the eastside of the state. They returned to the westside, settling in Grand Rapids where they lived for 48 years. Together they built a home filled with faith, service to others, social gatherings and a love of sports.

He worked as a sales engineer and territory manager earlier in his career and later began his own business as a manufacturer’s representative, which allowed him to be on the road and use his sales skills working directly with others.

Beyond his career, he found joy in coaching baseball and five decades of officiating football at both high school and college level. He was deeply involved in his church, and a member of the Kentwood Rotary Club and Big 10 club. In retirement he enjoyed spending time with his grandkids and great granddaughter, caring for his home and lawn, watching/attending all sports, traveling and spending time with new and lifetime friends. Jim had a quick wit and a generous heart. Although he was known for his practical jokes, he was equally known for dropping anything to help others when needed. Jim was always ready with a warm smile and handshake, and maybe even a fib about his age.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Allyson and John Fris; granddaughter, Elizabeth and Taylor Otteman; grandson, Jacob Fris; great-granddaughter, Marguerite Otteman; sister and lifetime friend, Virginia Raby; his nieces, Stephanie, Andrea, Nancy and Kathy; and cousin, Mary Sue Rischar.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, James and Bernice; son, Kurt Davies; and wife, Barbara Davies.

His legacy of love, laughter, compassion and spontaneity will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

The family will hold a private gathering to honor and celebrate Jim’s life. They would welcome comments or stories to be shared.

Jim felt especially passionate about the Life Leadership Camp and the partnership between his Rotary club and East Kentwood High School. If moved to do so, donations may be made to The Rotary Club of Kentwood, 6757 Cascade Road SE #68, Grand Rapids, MI 49546.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James, please visit our floral store.

John Melbourne Dorr

May 25, 1960-August 10, 2026

It is with sadness that we share the news of the passing of Johnny (John) M. Dorr.

Johnny passed on Monday, August 10, after a protracted battle with cancer.

Johnny was born in Douglas on May 25, 1960, and lived in various places in Michigan, with his last residence in Holland.

Johnny is preceded in death by his father, John W. Dorr; his mother, Betty (Powers) (Strampel) Dorr; and his grandparents, Mary and Melbourne Powers.

Johnny is survived by his sister, Mary E. Dorr, with whom he often relied upon throughout his life.

He is also survived by his brothers, Dr. William Strampel, Dr. Michael Strampel, and Jay (Dorr) Strampel.

Johnny also leaves his companion and caregiver for his final years, Crystela Villegas. Johnny was married to Cindy Seeback.

Your family will miss you and always wished the best for you. Your pain is over and be at peace.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John, please visit our floral store.

Dr. Ronald L. Geschwendt

October 11, 1937-August 18, 2026

Dr. Ronald Geschwendt, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, pastor, mentor, and friend, passed away on August 18, 2026, at the age of 88.

Ronald was born October 19, 1937, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and was a proud graduate of Hope College, Class of 1959. His life was shaped by a deep faith and a calling to serve others. He continued his education in preparation for a lifetime of ministry, earning a Bachelor of Divinity from Western Theological Seminary in 1962, a Master of Theology from Calvin Theological Seminary in 1971, and a Doctor of Ministry from Westminster Theological Seminary in 1983.

The Rev. Dr. Ronald "Ron" Geschwendt leaves a lasting legacy of visionary leadership, dynamic teaching, and a deep passion for community renewal over more than four decades of ministry within the Reformed Church in America (RCA).

Dr. Geschwendt brought his unique gift for fostering vibrant, forward-looking church families, along with his enthusiasm and warm pastoral heart, to several West Michigan congregations, always with his beloved wife, Jan, by his side. His early ministry included shepherding the growth and expansion of Fair Haven Reformed Church in Jenison and North Park Reformed Church in Kalamazoo. He went on to serve as senior pastor of First Reformed Church of Zeeland throughout the 1970's and 1980's, where he and Jan raised their family. Later, he ministered at Zion Reformed Church in Grandville before concluding his full-time pastoral career at First Reformed Church of Grand Haven.

A gifted communicator and dedicated mentor to pastors and church leaders, Dr. Geschwendt balanced a deep reverence for Scripture with a passion for making its message meaningful and accessible to people in every season of life. His ministry extended far beyond the pulpit. Through his work with Words of Hope and his contributions to the Sunday School Guide, he continued to share the message of Scripture with people well beyond the walls of the churches he served.

One of the most meaningful chapters of his later ministry was his work with the Commissioned Pastor Program for the Regional Synod of the Great Lakes. As coordinator of the program, Ron devoted himself to identifying, equipping, encouraging, and mentoring men and women who felt called to serve the church. He had a special gift for recognizing potential in others and helping them develop the confidence, knowledge, and spiritual foundation needed to answer that call. Through the pastors he mentored and encouraged, his ministry continues to reach congregations and communities far beyond his own.

Even after retiring from that position, Ron's commitment to the church never truly ended. Teaching, encouraging others, studying Scripture, and helping people discover how they could serve remained an important part of who he was. His true legacy lives on not only in the congregations he led, but also in the pastors he mentored, the words he wrote, and the thousands of lives touched by the message of grace he so faithfully shared.

Those who knew Ron will remember not only the ways he served others, but also the things that brought him joy. He treasured time with family and friends, especially a beautiful day on the lake. He had a lifelong love of baseball, hunting, and fishing, and he never seemed to tire of being outdoors and enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

Above all, Ron treasured his role as a grandfather. His grandchildren were a tremendous source of joy and pride, and he cherished the time he spent with them-whether sharing stories and laughter, debating the latest news, racing to complete the New York Times crossword puzzle, playing a rousing game of Rook, enjoying time together at the lake, or simply watching them grow. The love he had for them was unmistakable, and the memories they made together will remain a treasured part of his legacy.

Ronald was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Janice "Jan" Geschwendt, who died in July 2023. Jan was his partner in every sense of the word-his greatest supporter and constant companion throughout their life together. With her quick wit, outgoing spirit, and wonderful gift for making people feel welcome, Jan brought laughter, friendship, and fun wherever they went. She stood beside Ron throughout his years of ministry-typing sermons, matching his tempo on the organ, keeping everyone's grammar in check, and cooking countless batches of bluegill. Together, they opened their home and their lives to countless people along the way. Ron and Jan made a wonderful team, sharing a life centered on faith, family, friendship, and plenty of laughter.

He is lovingly remembered by his children, Mark (Carla) Geschwendt and Mark's daughter, Marisa; David (Cami) Geschwendt and their children, Joshua (Kate), Zachary, Tristan, and Cameron; and Amy Farnsley and her children, Paige, Nicole, Griffen, and Meredith. Ron was also blessed with great-grandchildren Lila and Linc Lee, children of Joshua and Kate.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Arvin and Genevieve Geschwendt, and beloved brother, Vernon Geschwendt. He is lovingly remembered by his sisters, Marlene Reed, Janet McKnee, and Bonnie (Dick) Dykehouse, along with extended family, lifelong friends, and the many people whose lives he influenced through his ministry.

Ronald's legacy is found not only in the churches he served or the ministry he helped strengthen, but in the lives of the people he encouraged along the way. His faith, kindness, wisdom, humor, and love for his family will be remembered and carried forward by those who were fortunate enough to know him.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

A service celebrating Ronald's life will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, August 22, 2026, at First Reformed Church, 301 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Words of Hope at woh.org or by mail to 700 Ball Ave. NE Grand Rapids, MI 49503.

Burial to take place in Lake Forest Cemetery in Grand Haven, Michigan.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Dr. Ronald L. Geschwendt please visit our Sympathy Store.

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Theodore John "Ted" Lintjer

October 5, 1953-August 15, 2026

Theodore John Lintjer, age 73, of Grand Haven, Michigan, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2026.

Theodore, known to those who loved him as Ted, was an outgoing, joyful person who had a way of bringing energy and life wherever he went. He loved to sing and could often be found with a guitar in his hands, sharing his music with the people around him. His love of music was just one of the many things that made him special.

Ted also had a deep love of sports, especially football and golf. Whether cheering for his favorite team or enjoying a day on the golf course, he found happiness in the game and, most importantly, in the people he shared those moments with.

He is survived by his father, Robert Lintjer; his children, Amanda, Eric, and Lori Lintjer; seven grandchildren and his siblings, Barb Barlass and Steve Lintjer. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Ted leaves behind memories of laughter, music, family, and a life lived with an open and outgoing spirit. His voice may be quiet now, but the songs he sang and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of those who loved him.
May he rest peacefully, with a guitar in his hands and a song in his heart.

A private family service will be held. Arrangements entrusted to The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at sytsemafh.com.

Noel Lynne Lisa

May 29, 1967-August 12, 2026

Noel Lynne Lisa, passed away on August 12, 2026, at the age of 59, surrounded by the love of her family.

She was born on May 29, 1967, in Jersey City, New Jersey, to John and Patricia Lisa. Noel made Michigan her home for the past 13 years, where she created countless memories and formed lasting friendships that became like family.

Noel is survived by her loving spouse, Michael Clark; her four children, Samantha, Alexandra, Nicolette, and Michael; her daughter-in-law, Jessica; her son-in-law, Kyle; her grandchildren, Alice, Kali, Grace, Adriana, and Yvette; her mother, Patricia; and her sisters, Mischelle and Tonianne.

She was preceded in death by her father, John, and her brother, John.

Those who knew Noel will remember her for her unforgettable personality. She was fiercely independent, strong-willed, and never afraid to speak her mind. Noel had a way of putting you in your place when necessary, and she certainly never put up with any nonsense.

But behind that feisty spirit was an enormous heart.

Noel loved fiercely and protected the people she cared about without hesitation. If you were lucky enough to be loved by Noel, you knew without a doubt that she would have your back. Her loyalty was unwavering, and she would stand up for the people she loved no matter what. She was also incredibly funny and had a gift for making people laugh. Noel could bring humor into almost any situation, and her laughter and personality drew people to her.

Throughout her life, she made many friends, but to Noel, friends were never simply friends for long — they became family. Noel leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, strength, loyalty, and countless memories that will continue to live on in the people who knew and loved her. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the impact she made on those around her will never be forgotten.

A celebration of life will be 3-5 p.m. on Friday, August 21, at Wicks Park Bar & Grill, 449 Water St., Saugatuck. Family and friends are invited to come together to remember Noel, share stories, laugh, cry, and celebrate the remarkable woman she was.

In lieu of formal goodbyes, her family asks everyone who knew Noel to carry a little piece of her with them — to stand up for the people they love, never be afraid to speak their mind, and always find a reason to laugh.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Noel, please visit our floral store.

Joyce Mulder

January 3, 1942-August 16, 2026

Joyce Mulder, age 84, of Zeeland passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 16, 2026.

She is survived by her nephew and nieces, Don and Kyong-Sun DeKam, Brenda DeKam, and Jeanna Spoors.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, James and Tillie Mulder; and her sister and brother-in-law, Gloria and Andrew DeKam.

Joyce was a lifelong member of First Christian Reformed Church in Zeeland. She enjoyed a long career in the banking world, first at First Michigan Bank and then Huntington Bank where she retired from.

Joyce was a gentle and quiet soul.

Visitation will be 10:30-11:15 a.m. Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland, with the funeral service to follow at 11:30 a.m. Interment will be in Zeeland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to Zeeland Christian School. 

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Joyce Mulder please visit our Sympathy Store.

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Thomas Dale Peterson

July 23, 1938-August 14, 2026

Thomas Dale Peterson passed away on August 14, 2026, at the age of 88.

He was born on July 23, 1938, and lived in Holland, Michigan.

No services are scheduled at this time. 

Peter "Pete" Reiffer, Jr.

January 2, 1943-August 16, 2026

Peter Reiffer Jr., age 83, of Spring Lake, passed into the presence of his heavenly Father the morning of Sunday, August 16, 2026.

He was born on January 2, 1943, in East Grand Rapids, Michigan, to the late Peter and Sally (De Jager) Reiffer Sr.

Pete graduated from South Christian High School and received his associate's degree from Davenport College. He then went on to proudly serve his country in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1961 to 1968. He married Susan Van Valkenburg on November 18, 1966, in Grand Rapids.

Pete spent his entire career as a bookkeeper at several Chevrolet dealerships in West Michigan and retired from Betten-Baker in 2013. In his retirement, he volunteered for the Metal Recycling Mission at First Grand Haven CRC, where he was a member and served as an elder, sang in the choir, and was on the Praise Team. Pete served on the board and was a counselor for the Calvinist Cadet Corp. for 25 years and was a Cadet leader from 1965 to 1990.

Pete was an avid bowler and outdoorsman who enjoyed biking, camping, and deer hunting. He especially loved spending summers at Fremont Lake and winters in Avon Park, Florida.

Pete will be forever remembered and missed and is survived by his loving wife of almost 60 years, Susan; son, Daniel (Tammy) Reiffer of Spring Lake; daughter, Pamela (Greg) Sclater of Palmyra, Virginia; five grandsons, Kameron (Meka) Reiffer, Ryan (Brooke) Reiffer, Jacob Reiffer, Cary and Levi Sclater; two great-grandchildren, Addilyn and Jack Reiffer; brother, William "Bill" (Monica) Reiffer; sister, Connie Bush; sister-in-law, Lynda VerMerris; as well as many extended family and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law, Leon and Helen Van Valkenburg; and his siblings-in-law, Larry and Idanne Van Valkenburg, Robert VerMerris, and Ronald Bush.

The celebration of life for Pete will take place at 2 p.m. on Monday, August 24, 2026, at First Grand Haven CRC with Pastor Arthur Van Wolde officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church.

Memorial contributions may be made to First Grand Haven CRC.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Peter "Pete" Reiffer Jr., please visit our floral store.

Susan Vanse

September 4, 1948-August 17, 2026

Susan Vanse (Wiegerink), age 77, of Hudsonville and formerly Grand Haven, Michigan, went to be with her Lord and savior in the early hours of Monday, August 17, 2026.

Susan was born on September 4, 1948, to John and Harriet Wiegerink in Grand Haven, Michigan. She spent her childhood on 160th Avenue in the house her father built, sharing it with her three sisters and two brothers. After graduating from Grand Haven High School and Hope College, Susan spent more than four decades as an elementary school teacher, impacting the lives of countless children through her kindness, dedication, and love of learning. She spent the last two decades of her teaching career at Tri-Unity Christian School, where three of her daughters graduated and where she left a lasting impression on the TCS community. Stories of Susan's dedication to her students and compassion for their lives are easy to find, shared by those who had the blessing of having Mrs. Vanse as their third-grade teacher.

Susan would want us to share the good news of Jesus Christ. She was devoted to her faith and lifted up others wherever she found them. On her refrigerator, she had written, “Jesus for my family,” just one day before her passing and she lived that message every day. Each morning began early, as Susan was known for being a constant pre-dawn presence, starting her day well before sunrise with her Bible, devotions, and prayers for her family and community.

She had the biggest heart and felt deep compassion for others. Susan not only lifted people up in prayer but was also a woman of action for anyone with a need. There was nothing too big or too small that Susan wasn't there to help get done. Though it was a family joke that Susan couldn't sit still long enough to relax, her drive to help others was — and remains — an inspiration for how to live a meaningful life of impact. This was further reflected in her more than three decades of volunteer service with Crossroads Prison Ministries, where for more than 20 years she faithfully corresponded with prisoners, offering encouragement, hope, and the love of Christ to hundreds of lives.

To remember Susan, you could head to the places she loved: Grand Rapids First Church, the Grand Haven pier, a walk by the water, her garden, her book club, or her sunroom, reading with the morning light streaming in, or simply go anywhere her family is gathered. Her favorite sound was a full house of family, with love and laughter all around.

Susan is already deeply missed by her large and loving family, including her husband of nearly 54 years, Doug Vanse; five daughters, Valarie Vanse, Kristin Steensma, Jennifer (Vanse) Talluto (Tim), Elisabeth Vanse, and Deborah Vanse; 17 grandchildren, Wade and Beau Hartwick, Dominic Milewski, Rachel Volpe, Lauren Beals, Kaitlyn Steensma, Audrey Steensma Clinger, Thijs, James, and Shelby Talluto, Elsa and Annika Martin, Lleyton, Ainslee, Pierson, Hewitt, and Keaton Thorp; and six great-grandchildren, Kyleigh and Aubrey Hartwick, Harper Hartwick, Emma, Hayes, and Lainey Volpe. Susan will also be deeply missed by her siblings, Bonnie Johnson and Richard Wiegerink; many nieces and nephews; and brother-in-law, Dwight Vanse.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, James Wiegerink, Hazel Measom, and Carol Kasmauski; brother-in-law, Dennis Vanse; and son-in-law, Kirk Steensma.

A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, August 21, 2026, at Grand Rapids First Prayer Chapel, 2100 44th St. SW, MI 49519, with visitation starting at 10 a.m. prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Tri-Unity Christian School, a school she deeply supported out of her love for Christ and Christian education.

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

Dorothy Elgene VerMurlen

October 21, 1927-August 15, 2026

Dorothy Elgene VerMurlen, age 98, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, passed away Saturday, August 15, 2026, with her family by her side.

She was born October 21, 1927, in Detroit, Michigan, to Bruce O. and Julia (Kelemen) Brown. Dorothy married Jack W. VerMurlen on December 9, 1950, in Holland, Michigan. He preceded her in death on May 17, 2014.

Dorothy graduated from Lee High School. She worked for Michigan Bell as a telephone operator, and later at Chase Bank as a teller.  Dorothy was in the American Legion Auxiliary, enjoyed craft shows, playing music on her organ, and day trips in the car to see the fall colors. Most of all, she cherished time spent with family at gatherings. One of her greatest enjoyments in life was seeing people smile.

She is lovingly remembered by two daughters, Deborah VerMurlen and Robin (Don) Beckholt; three sons, Dale (Penny) VerMurlen, Glenn (Sheryl) VerMurlen, and Russell (Terri) VerMurlen; eight grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by two brothers, Jim (Maxine) Brown and Sonny Brown; and brothers-in-law, Bob (Marion) VerMurlen, and Lee (Diane) VerMurlen.

A funeral will be at 11 a.m. Friday, August 21, 2026, at The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Friends may meet the family an hour prior to the funeral service at the funeral home. Interment will be in Lake Forest Cemetery.

Share memories with the family at their online guest book at sytsemafh.com.

Sally Jo Ann Wieling

September 24, 1942-August 14, 2026

Sally Jo Ann Wieling, age 83, passed away Friday, August 14, 2026.

Using her degrees as an RN MS, she worked for the HHS department for 40 years. She called Kotzebue, Arkansas; San Francisco, California; Fort Defiance, New Mexico; New Orleans, Louisiana; and Chicago, Illinois, her homes throughout her career in that department. She retired in her hometown, Holland, Michigan.

Sally Jo traveled extensively, nationally and internationally. She volunteered for many years for World Renew.

She attended Calvary and Foundation churches of Holland.

Sally Jo was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Daisy (Smith) Wieling, and her brother, David Wieling.

She is survived by her brother, Ron and Deb Wieling; sister-in-law, Kathleen Wieling; six nieces and nephews; and cousins and friends.

A special thank you to Cortland of Holland and Brighton Hospice for their loving, compassionate care of Sally Jo.

A private family graveside will take place at Lakeshore Cemetery in Holland.

Arrangements are by Dykstra Funeral Homes – Northwood Chapel.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Sally Jo, please visit our floral store.