Obituaries: Aug. 24, 2026

Robert Bruce Abbaduska

September 20, 1943-August 13, 2026

Robert Bruce Abbaduska, age 82, went to be with his Lord on August 13, 2026.

Private services were held for his family and church family on August 20, 2026, at Holy Redeemer Parish Catholic Church in Jenison, Michigan, followed by entombment at Resurrection Cemetery in Wyoming, Michigan.

Bob graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in electrical engineering in 1964. He immediately began his lifelong career at Consumers Power (later Consumers Energy), retiring after 30 years of service.

Bob was a quiet man with many interests. He enjoyed his family through all the seasons of life. He enjoyed woodworking and the old furniture pieces that he lovingly refinished will be enjoyed by his future generations. He also enjoyed the outdoors, gardening in the summer and decorating his home elaborately for Christmastime. He also traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe.

He is survived by his wife, Janet, whom he loved and cherished for over 63 years. Also surviving are his daughter, Andrea Marie (Abbaduska) and Daniel Robert Lutz, and his son, Robert Ciril and Diane (Arends) Abbaduska; grandchildren, Robert David Abbaduska and Ana Hernandez, Raymond Joseph Abbaduska, Cynthia Joy and Jonathan Singh Sandhu, and Rochelle Marie Leith and fiancé, Chad Blankinship; great-grandchild, David Walter Jovani Sandhu; and many nieces, nephews, and friends, all of whom loved him very much.

Kenneth Dell Boeve

November 15, 1930-August 23, 2026

Kenneth (Ken) Boeve, 95 years old, was born on November 15, 1930, in Holland, Michigan, to Esther and Richard Boeve.

He went to be with his Lord and savior Jesus Christ on August 23, 2026.

A lifelong resident in Holland, a quiet, hardworking, loving man who enjoyed his family and life, including biking, gardening, painting, traveling, and watching sports, especially the Detroit Tigers and college basketball.

Married to his first love, Lois Kolean, on June 16, 1950, he was a faithful, caring husband for 53 years until Lois passed away in 2003. Together they had five children, Richard (Gundi) Boeve, Thomas (Mary) Boeve, Timothy (Diane) Boeve, Jane (Eric) Roessing, and Kevin (Elizabeth) Boeve; nine grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren.

Then, at age 82, he married his second love, Marge Pugh, and they enjoyed 11 years of life together until Marge passed away in 2025. This added five stepchildren to his life: Victor (Lonna) Pugh, Randall (Gail) Pugh, Mical (Jennifer) Pugh, Christy (Dale) TenElshof, and Amy (Tom) Mulder, and numerous more step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren.

Ken worked numerous jobs throughout his life, but his favorite was being head custodian at Jefferson Elementary School for 17-plus years. He loved the students, teachers, and principal and kept the school building very clean and orderly. He received high honors from the staff at the time of his retirement for his excellence in workmanship and character.

He is survived by his brother, Ronald (Sunny) Boeve; sisters, Marilyn (Carroll) Seats and Sandra Lester; sisters-in-law, Eleanor Boeve, Yvonne Dryer, Irene Gunnink, and Alma Worley; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was a longtime member at Maplewood Reformed Church and loved serving his Lord as a deacon many times. In recent years, he had transferred his membership to Graafschap Christian Reformed Church.

A funeral service will take place at 11 a.m. Monday, August 31, at Graafschap Christian Reformed Church, 5973 Church St., Holland, MI 49423, with an hour of visitation held prior.

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

Jeffrey Clarke Brown

July 17, 1946-August 19, 2026

Jeffrey Clarke Brown (July 17, 1946-August 19, 2026) passed away surrounded by the family he loved most, leaving behind a life defined by devotion, warmth, and deep connection.

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend, he will be remembered for the love he gave so freely and the lasting impact he had on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Jeffrey was born and raised in Dearborn, Michigan, the third of seven children born to Mary and John “Jack” Brown. From an early age, he was outgoing, personable, and genuinely interested in others. He made friends easily and could strike up a conversation with just about anyone. He also developed an early love of sports, playing hockey growing up and remaining an avid fan of hockey, baseball, and football throughout his life.

At the age of 25, while working at the post office in Michigan, Jeffrey met Nancy. For Nancy, it was love at first sight. The two began dating and eventually moved across the country to California, where they would build their life together. After five years of dating, Jeffrey and Nancy were married in a small Catholic ceremony on June 21, 1980. They first made their home in Calabasas and later settled in Woodland Hills. What began with a chance meeting at the post office became an extraordinary partnership spanning 46 years of marriage, four children, four grandsons, and a lifetime built side by side.

In Woodland Hills, Jeffrey and Nancy welcomed their four children: Rory in 1986, Renée in 1988, Ryan in 1990, and Rhiannon in 1992. Eventually, the family returned to Michigan to be closer to their extended family, where they continued raising their children and created a home deeply rooted in family.

Jeffrey was a devoted father to Renée, Ryan, and Rhiannon and was preceded in death by his beloved son, Rory, in 2005. He welcomed his sons-in-law, Tyler Starow and Eleazar Mendoza Jr., into the family and took great joy in watching his family grow.

Becoming “Papa” to his four grandsons, Parks and Sage Starow and Finn and Bowie Mendoza, brought Jeffrey tremendous joy. He was a fun, playful, and deeply devoted grandfather who treasured being part of their lives. The laughter and memories they shared will remain an enduring part of his legacy.

Professionally, Jeffrey was an entrepreneur who built Westshore Communications, a prominent telecommunications company in the West Michigan community, alongside his longtime business partner. His curiosity and drive extended well beyond his career. He was a lifelong learner and avid reader, always eager to understand more, discover something new, and, more often than not, share what he had learned with everyone else.

Jeffrey believed in staying active and engaged with life. He could often be found at the gym, where he went daily, or tinkering around the house and yard, always finding something to fix, work on, or improve. He loved the beach, warm sunny days, traveling, and especially trips to California to spend time with family.

At the center of Jeffrey’s life was Nancy. They raised their family, traveled, and moved through life together, finding happiness as much in ordinary days as in life’s biggest moments. After 46 years of marriage, their friendship and devotion to one another remained as strong as ever. Simply being together was where they were happiest.

Jeffrey had a distinctly welcoming voice and a personality to match. He was quick-witted, funny, and naturally connected with people. Whether talking with an old friend, a neighbor, someone at the gym, or a complete stranger, he had a way of making people feel comfortable and genuinely seen.

Anyone who knew Jeffrey also knew that a conversation with him was rarely a short one. He loved offering his perspective, advice, and opinions. A simple question could easily become a much longer conversation, but somewhere within it was usually a piece of advice worth remembering. What may have earned an occasional eye roll at the time from his children became some of the very wisdom his family would carry with them throughout their lives. He was someone they could always turn to for perspective, reassurance, a thoughtful answer, a laugh, or simply that familiar voice on the other end of the phone.

Jeffrey’s life was defined not simply by what he accomplished, but by the relationships he built and nurtured: the marriage he treasured, the family he loved fiercely, the friendships he made, and the wisdom and laughter he shared along the way.

Jeffrey will be dearly missed and forever loved. His voice, his advice, his humor, his stories, and his smile will remain with his family always, as will the warmth and steady presence that made him so deeply loved by those fortunate enough to know him.

A private family graveside service will take place at a later date. Please share a memory in honor of Jeffrey.

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

Chester "Chet" Haveman

October 10, 1942-August 23, 2026

Chester Haveman, 83, of Hudsonville, passed away on Sunday, August 23, 2026.

Chester "Chet" was born October 10, 1942, in Blendon Township, to Arnold and Hattie (Holstege) Haveman. Chet graduated from Unity Christian High School and served his country in the U.S. Army. After his military service, Chet worked in concrete construction at Ted Miedema Concrete for 50 years until he retired. On June 19, 1969, Chet married Sharon Prince. Chet and Sharon raised their children in Hudsonville, and Chet was a lifelong member of Hudsonville Protestant Reformed Church.

Chet is survived by his wife of 57 years, Sharon; their children, Janna and Joel Huisken of Grandville, Michael and Heidi Haveman of Jenison; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Trevor and Kaitlin Huisken (Elise), Mitchell and Leah Huisken (expecting in February), Kelly Huisken, Emily Huisken, Ethan and Olivia Haveman (Edison), Darcie and Carson Lehmann; siblings, Will and Sue Haveman, Vern and Mary Haveman, Ruth and Dale Kraker; in-laws, Douglas and Mary Jane Prince, and many extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Betty Haveman.

A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Friday, August 28, 2026, at Hudsonville Protestant Reformed Church, 5101 Beechtree Ave., Hudsonville, MI 49426. Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Thursday, also at Hudsonville Protestant Reformed Church. Private interment will be in Blendon Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Protestant Reformed Special Education.

Arrangements are by the Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland, MI 49464.

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James Taylor McCormick II

January 20, 1943-August 22, 2026

James Taylor McCormick II, age 83, of Holland, went to be with his Lord on Saturday, August 22, 2026.

Jim was born and raised in Canandaigua, New York. Jim was a proud graduate of the University of Georgia, where he earned his bachelor's degree in psychology, and he dedicated eight remarkable years to serving in the U.S. Air Force, retiring as a captain. His firm faith inspired him to care deeply for his family and those in need, which was evident in every aspect of his life.

A devoted husband to his wife, Pam McCormick, Jim cherished the life they built together. He was an extraordinary stepfather to Brian, Mark, and David, creating countless memories and modeling what it meant to be a man of character. He was also a doting grandfather.

For many years, Jim served as a substance abuse counselor, providing support and guidance to families. His kind heart and compassionate nature made a significant impact on the lives of many. Later, Jim discovered his passion for landscaping, where he took immense pride in both his work and the relationships he built with clients.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Pam McCormick; sons, Brian and Kathleen Linder, Mark Linder, and David and Abbie Linder; six grandchildren; sister, Sara Beasley; in-laws, Martin and Cheryl DeHaan, as well as nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by brothers-in-law, William DeHaan and Cliff Beasley.

Jim will be dearly missed by his family and friends; they cherish the memories they shared. And they take great comfort knowing he is with his savior, and they will see him again.

No services are planned. Memorial contributions may be given to Hospice of Holland. Arrangements are by Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home. Condolences may be left online at langelandsterenberg.com.

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Karin Mortensen

February 23, 1944-August 19, 2026

Karin Mortensen, a dedicated lifelong hospice nurse who spent her career bringing comfort to others, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on August 19, 2026.

Deeply compassionate, she could not bear to see others struggle and always quietly made sure that her friends, neighbors, and anyone in need were cared for and supported.

Born in Germany on February 23, 1944, Karin was the daughter of the late Gertrude Dämmrich and Helmut Hofmeister. She built a life centered around care and family. An amazing cook, she delighted in feeding those she loved, and she spent many peaceful hours knitting and crocheting beautiful creations. For decades, Karin provided compassionate care to countless individuals and families during their most difficult moments, leaving behind a legacy of profound kindness.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Sidney Mortensen.

Karin leaves behind a large, devoted family who will miss her dearly. She is survived by her siblings, Heinz Dämmrich, Harry Dämmrich, and Hannelore Dämmrich.

She is also survived by her children, Dirk Meacham and his wife Nila; Christina Mortensen and her life-long partner, Kelly Robbins; Christopher Mortensen and his wife Rebecca; Michael Mortensen; and Chloe McDonald and her husband, Michael J. McDonald Jr. Additionally, she leaves behind her grandson, Ryan Onstott, and his children; grandson, Cody Bennett; granddaughter, June Myers; grandson, Kaiden Michael Ladner; as well as her great-grandchildren, Hadleigh McDonald and Michael J. McDonald III.

Her family will remember her as a pillar of strength, stubborn to a T, feisty, and your greatest advocate, and full of unconditional love. As her loved ones move forward, they carry her comforting spirit and the gentle reminder, "Don't worry about a thing, 'cause every little thing gonna be all right."

A visitation will be 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Monday, August 24, 2026, at Dykstra Funeral Homes – Mulder Chapel, 188 W. 32nd St., Holland, Michigan 49423. She will be laid to rest in Graafschap Cemetery in Holland.

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

Timothy Dale Owen

December 7, 1957-August 13, 2026

Timothy Dale Owen, known to many as Tim, was born on December 7, 1957, in Gary, Indiana, and passed away on August 13, 2026, in Holland, Michigan, at the age of 68.

He died of a heart attack, and while his passing leaves a deep emptiness in the hearts of those who loved him, his life remains a lasting testimony to faith, family, music, and kindness.

Tim was a Christian man who sought to live with humility, devotion, and gratitude. He carried himself with a generous spirit, a warm sense of humor, and a loving heart that touched everyone blessed to know him. Those who knew Tim will remember him as a man who could bring light into a room, laughter into a conversation, and comfort into the lives of others simply by being himself. He was a man of strong character, steady faith, and genuine care for the people around him.

He graduated from Crown Point High School in 1976, and throughout his life he remained a hardworking and dedicated man. Tim retired from Mittal Steel in 2025 after many years of faithful service. He was respected by those who worked alongside him and appreciated for the quiet strength and dependability he brought to his work. His life reflected the values of perseverance, responsibility, and integrity, and he carried those same values into his home and family life.

Tim was also an accomplished musician, and music was one of the great joys of his life. He could play any string instrument put in his hands, and his gift was matched by his passion. Music was not merely something he performed, but something he lived and loved. It was a part of who he was, and it brought him joy as well as joy to those who listened. His devotion to music was matched only by his devotion to his family, and both were central to the way he lived each day.

Family was the heart of Tim’s life. He is survived by his beloved wife, Theresa; his sons, Steven and his wife Brittney, and Peter; his sister, Becky; and his four cherished grandchildren, Emerson, Elsie, Everleigh, and Emma. He treasured his role as husband, father, grandfather, and brother, and he found great happiness in the time he spent with those he loved most. He especially loved being with his grandchildren, and those moments of laughter, conversation, and simple togetherness were among the greatest blessings of his life.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Naomi Owen, whose memory remained important to him throughout his life. He carried forward the lessons and love he received from them, and his own life became a reflection of the family values he held dear. Though he is no longer with us in body, his legacy lives on in the family he loved, the music he shared, and the countless memories he created with those around him.

He loved to laugh, and his laughter will be remembered as one of the many gifts he gave to others. Tim had a way of making people feel welcome, valued, and at ease. His generosity, his humor, and his loving nature made him a blessing in the lives of many. He will be remembered not only for what he did, but for who he was, a faithful Christian man who lived with heart, purpose, and grace.

We take comfort in the promise of God’s eternal care and in the hope that comes through faith in Christ. Though Tim’s earthly journey has ended, we trust that he now rests in the presence of the Lord he served. May his memory be cherished, and may his life continue to inspire all who knew him to love deeply, live faithfully, and walk humbly with God.

A private graveside service for family and close friends will take place at Zeeland - Felch Street Cemetery.

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

Robert "Bob" Nevin Schouman

April 1, 1941-August 19, 2026

Robert "Bob" N. Schouman, age 85, of Grand Haven, passed away on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at a local care facility.

He was born on April 1, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late William and Verta (Callahan) Schouman. Bob married Elizabeth Cherin, with whom he shared two sons, Charles and Bill, and later, married Jean McLaughlin on July 19, 1982, in Grand Haven. She preceded him in death on October 1, 2010, after sharing 28 years of marriage.

Bob graduated from high school and went on to receive his Master of Engineering in Wood Technology from the University of Michigan. He spent his working career as a talented woodworking engineer for various manufacturing companies throughout the years before retiring from Haworth Corp.

Bob was a longtime member of Covenant Life Church of Grand Haven, where he shared his woodworking skills and talent to contribute to the Bunk Bed and Ramp Ministries. He took great pride in the log home he built in Grand Haven Township. Bob enjoyed woodworking, making stained glass, biking, and traveling to Florida, where he especially enjoyed going shelling.

Bob will be forever remembered and missed by his children, Charles (Brenda Penland) Schouman, Bill (Melissa) Schouman, Cindy (John) Botbyl, and Sara (Charles) Zalsman Jr.; daughter-in-law, Amy Hutchinson; 10 grandchildren, Ian, Ali, Stephanie, Austin, Hayden, Laura, Jacob, Caleb, Miles, and Wyatt; two great-grandchildren, Malcolm and Zoe; brother, Ron Schouman; sister-in-law, Kay Fee; brother-in-law, Jim (Linda) McLaughlin; as well as several nieces and nephews.

The memorial service for Bob will take place at 2 p.m. on Friday, September 25, 2026, at Covenant Life Church, with a visitation 1-2 p.m. Interment will be at Mona View Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Covenant Life Church or Hospice of Michigan.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert "Bob" Nevin Schouman, please visit our floral store.

Robert Allen Sheldon

February 22, 1952-August 21, 2026

Robert Allen Sheldon, age 74, of Grandville, Michigan, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his wife and children, Friday, August 21, 2026, after courageously living with stage 4 kidney cancer for the last three years.

Bob, as he was known by most (a few special people still called him Robert), had many loves in his life: his family, his church, food, and sports. These loves often intertwined, leading to the most enjoyable moments of his life.

Bob’s greatest love was his beautiful wife, Sherry. They met when they were 18 years old thanks to an introduction by his sister, Gerrie. They were married at 19, and began their life together. They would eventually move to Grandville, where they would raise their family. He worked at the Grand Rapids Keebler/Kellogg’s factory for over 30 years. Throughout their marriage, they enjoyed supporting community and school events. On August 14, 2026, they celebrated their 55th anniversary with their children and grandchildren. Their love for each other has been a great inspiration and example for their children, grandchildren, family, and friends.

Dad loved sports. He grew up playing baseball, football, and basketball and if you heard his stories, he was really fast! As an adult, he joined the church softball team and started golfing and bowling. He was a lifelong Detroit Tigers fan and enjoyed attending West Michigan Whitecaps games, especially on bobblehead nights. Often dressed in green and white, he loved cheering for Michigan State. He passed on his love of sports, serving as a Little League coach for Todd and Amy’s teams. When he wasn’t playing his own sports or coaching, he was always there to support his children, whether it was baseball, tennis, dance, or band. He continued that dedication and support for his grandchildren. Golfing and bowling were among his favorite ways to spend time with friends and family. He pushed through the pain to continue bowling throughout his journey with cancer. His golf partners and bowling friends will all miss him greatly.

Bob enjoyed cooking for his family, friends, and church. Whether it was the Fourth of July, at church for Easter breakfast, or just a regular Thursday night before bowling, you could find him in front of the grill or the stove preparing something delicious. He was a notoriously picky eater, which led to constant nagging from his family, but his stubbornness was always stronger. Those of us who knew him well know that Bob’s version of Heaven will have “no pickles."

Robert was a member of Bethel Lutheran Church, where he served his Lord dutifully. For over more than 50 years in the church, he held many leadership roles and built lifelong relationships. He was a true servant and helped create strong fellowship in the church. His presence will be missed by the congregation.

Bob is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Sherry (Perrin) Sheldon; his beloved children, Todd Sheldon and Amy Duggan; daughter-in-law, Melinda Sheldon and son-in-law, Josh Duggan, with whom he shared special relationships; and his grandchildren, Kylie and Drew Sheldon, whom he cherished; and by his devoted dog, Rosie, and grand-dogs Sparkles and Luna.

He is also survived by his siblings, Gerrie (Ken) Vennesland, Gayle (Ernie) Chernoby; brother-in-law, Jeff (Mary Frey) Perrin; as well as many nieces, nephews, and their families.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Gloria Sheldon, and his mother- and father-in-law, Gilbert and Alice Perrin.

The family will hold a visitation 4-7 p.m. Thursday, August 27, 2026, at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, August 28, at Bethel Lutheran Church, 3655 Wilson Ave. SW, Grandville, MI 49418, with visitation from 10-10:45 a.m. prior. Burial service will follow at Grandville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to the Humane Society of West Michigan. The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in Bob's online guestbook.

Ellen Sue Steinke

April 12, 1945-August 13, 2026

Ellen Sue Loewy Steinke, born on April 12, 1945, in the vibrant city of Baltimore, Maryland, peacefully departed this world on August 13, 2026, enveloped in the comfort of her home with her children by her side.

Her presence was a beacon of warmth and kindness, leaving a lasting imprint on all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Ellen was the beloved daughter of the late Samuel and Annette Loewy. She was also predeceased by her dear sister, Nancy Polen.

Her legacy is carried on by her devoted family: her daughter, Connie Steinke, and her son, Clark Keefer, along with his wife, Michelle Keefer. Ellen's joy and pride were her grandchildren, Taylor and Hudson Keefer, who brought light into her life with their laughter and love. She is also fondly remembered by her brother-in-law, Bob Polen; niece, Kim O’Connell; and her husband, Dan, as well as her nephew, David Polen, and his wife, Deann.

Ellen's life was a testament to the power of a warm smile and a gentle hug. Her kindness and compassion knew no bounds, and she was cherished deeply by her family and friends. Her light, though now absent, will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those she touched.

A private ceremony will be held to honor Ellen's remarkable life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Ellen's memory to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, an organization close to her heart, based in Washington, D.C.

As we bid farewell to Ellen, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with love, laughter, and unwavering grace. Her spirit will forever remain a guiding light for her family and all who knew her.

Arrangements are by Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home. To leave condolences online, please visit langelandsterenberg.com.

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Michael Vander Wilk

January 30, 1948-August 20, 2026

Michael Vander Wilk, 78, of Holland, formerly of Zeeland, passed away on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.

Mike was born in Zeeland, Michigan, on January 30, 1948, to John and Elsie (Blauwkamp) Vander Wilk. The Vander Wilk Family are longtime founding members of First Baptist Church of Zeeland. Mike was the third-born child of the six Vander Wilk children. Mike graduated from Zeeland High School and served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Mike was stationed in Germany during his time of service. He worked at Howard Miller Clock Co. for several years. Mike was also an avid golfer, bowler, and a lifelong raving Detroit Tigers fan.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Elsie; his siblings, Glenn and Nancy.

Mike is survived by his sister, Mary Peterson; brother, David and Kristi Vander Wilk; sister, Barbara (Vander Wilk) Davis; and extended family members.

A funeral with military honors will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 29, 2026, at First Baptist Church, 246 W. Main Ave., Zeeland MI 49464. Visitation will be 10-10:45 a.m. prior to the funeral service. Interment will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Zeeland.

Arrangements are by the Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland.

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