Obituaries: August 2025

EDITOR'S NOTE: This file will be updated throughout the month as new notices become available.

Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services

Richard Clifford Behm Jr.
November 16, 1956-August 24, 2025

Richard Clifford “Rick” Behm Jr., age 68, of Spring Lake, passed away Sunday, August 24, 2025, at Select Specialty Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

He was born November 16, 1956, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Richard Clifford and Elizabeth Ann (McKirahan) Behm Sr.
 
Rick met Jeannie when he was 11 years old in Forest Coves subdivision in Spring Lake.  They got married in March 1977 and had 48 years of marriage. They have two sons, Richard (Shannon) Behm III and Randy (Julie) Behm; four grandchildren, Merrick, Aidenn, Elsa,and Harrison; two step-grandsons, Jackson and Spencer; two sisters, Cheryl George and Deb (Denny) Dekker; and his brother, Don (Terri) Behm.
 
Rick loved playing his guitar and writing his own music. He loved boating and being by the water, playing Scrabble with his wife, and fishing. He was a designer, by trade, and made a baseball pitching machine when his boys were young, a crane toy for his grandkids, and later, a bandsaw for his woodworking hobby.
 
Rick battled many health issues. He took on a challenge most people would never do. He did his own kidney dialysis, known as peritoneal dialysis, for 2.5 years.
 
Rick always stayed strong and positive. He loved his family dearly.
 
According to Rick’s wishes, no services will be held. Memorials to Tunnel to Towers or Wounded Warrior Project are appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 49456. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at sytsemafh.com.

James "Jim" McGregor
May 29, 1932-August 21, 2025

Mr. James “Jim” McGregor, age 93, of Spring Lake, passed away Thursday, August 21, 2025. He was born May 29, 1932, in Grand Haven to William and Anna (Appel) McGregor.

Jim was a member of St. Patrick – St. Anthony Catholic Church and will be very missed.

He is survived by five daughters: Patricia Heron, Vicki (John) Flynn, Lisa McWilliams, Gayle (William) Walter, and Janet Lamanna; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by son, James Jr.; brothers, William Jr. and Robert McGregor; first wife, Mavis; and second wife, Lynette.

A private family graveside service will take place in Spring Lake Cemetery. Memorial contributions in memory of Jim may be given to the American Cancer Society. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services.

Henry James "Hank" Hawley
February 29, 1948-August 20, 2025

Henry James “Hank” Hawley, age 77, of Grand Haven, passed away Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at MediLodge at the Shore.

He was born on February 29, 1948, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Richard and Lillian (Huffman) Hawley. Hank married Leah MacPherson in 2002, after they met at Meijer.

Hank served his country honorably in the Air Force 821st Special Forces Unit, during the Vietnam War, receiving the Purple Heart. Following his military service, he graduated from Western Michigan University with his Bachelor of Science in social work, and was employed by the Department of Human Services in Ottawa County as a social worker. He enjoyed fishing, being outdoors, and especially spending time with his wife, family, and grandchildren. Hank was a high ropes trainer, building and designing courses, including the course at Camp Blodgett. He would travel to train and design the courses throughout the Midwest. Every summer, Hank, Leah, and Jason would go on a long road trip, trying to visit all fifty states, a goal they just missed. Hank loved helping at-risk youth and had a servant heart.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Leah Hawley; three stepsons: Vince (Elizabeth) Gervais, Eric (Jennifer) Gervais, and Jason Gervais; five grandchildren: Keegan Johnson, Camryn Gervais, Mallory Gervais, Reese Gervais and Giuliana Gervais; and two brothers, Tom Hawley and Rick Hawley.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of Hank’s Life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 30, 2025, at The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services with military honors accorded by the Charles A. Conklin American Legion Post #28 Honor Guard. Friends may meet the family one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Arrangements entrusted to The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Memorials to The Shirley Ryan Ability Lab in Chicago, IL, sralab.org/give-now, are appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at sytsemafh.com.

Rudolph James Jakobcic
October 24, 1951-August 18, 2025

Rudolph James Jakobcic, age 73, passed away in Lansing, Michigan, on August 18, 2025.

Rudolph, better known as Rudy or Rude Dude, left this world to join the love of his life, Maureen Jakobcic (Moe), parents, Joseph and Margaret Jakobcic, his siblings, Phyllis, JoAnne and Bill, his beloved niece Jennifer, and a large extended family of aunts, uncles and in-laws whom all loved him like a son. We would be remiss without mentioning the many animals that he and Moe raised and often saved together, treating them like their own children.

Rudy was happiest being surrounded by those he loved and created a large and loving family. He is survived by his children (with spouses), Margaret and Donald Davis, Andrew and Yumiko Jakobcic, Katie and Cullen Kronemeyer, Nicholas Jakobcic, and Emma and David Campbell; and, the absolute lights of his life, his grandchildren, Ethan, Gracie, Stella, Joseph and Mora.

Rudy was a ferocious reader and storyteller and enjoyed cooking large meals, sharing his love of music and imparting his profound knowledge of history. He had a knack for being able to talk to anyone, anytime, always ready to lend a listening ear whenever needed. He was a man ahead of his time and was uncommonly kind and fair. No matter the situation he always supported his children and grandchildren. He was known around the 4-H and horse-showing community as a “show dad” and groom to all. He always had his handy grooming box to make sure his kids and all their friends were ready for their next class. He worked long hours but still always managed to be there to cheer on his kids during long swim and track meets. The family had many a night of dancing in the living room while Moe and Rudy debated which record to play next. His Sunday morning big breakfasts were legendary, so much so that the dining room was often full with additional friends and neighbors.

As a grandfather, known as Papa, he was at his proudest. He was always there to tell an embarrassing family story, read his favorite books, play endless games and create hours of laughter as the tickle monster. He was never too busy for a Mystery Machine adventure or stargazing with a telescope.

Rudy will be greatly missed, but is finally able to join Moe, whom he has missed deeply for the past eight years. Our hearts find peace in their reunion.
The funeral for Rudolph will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 49456. Friends may meet the family one hour before the funeral on Tuesday at the funeral home. Interment will be in Nunica Cemetery. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at sytsemafh.com.

Virginia "Ginny" Olthof
August 10, 1930-August 18, 2025

Mrs. Virginia “Ginny” Olthof, age 95, of Spring Lake, passed away Monday, August 18, 2025.

She was born August 10, 1930, in Spring Lake to Clifford and Katie (Vink) Boorman.
 
Ginny was a member of Spring Lake Presbyterian Church, where she was a former deacon, a member of the crafter group, food pantry team and helped with Christmas tree sales. She enjoyed reading, knitting, game-night and spending time with her children and grandchildren.
 
She is survived by her four children: John (Carol) McNitt, Cindy (Gary) Rummler, Keri (Jerry) Hinds, and Kirk (April Wier) McNitt; ten grandchildren: Amy (Dave) Glotzbach, Katie McNitt, J.O. (Beth) McNitt, Erin (Aaron) Cornell, Matt Rummler, Jamie (Nick) Rogers, Abbie McNitt, Jerad Hinds, Mitchell McNitt, and Lily McNitt; six great-grandchildren: Melody, D.J., Kendall, Owen, Megan, and Madelyn; two great-great-grandchildren; and her close friends, Janet Schmidt, and Robin Lyons.

She was preceded in death by first husband, Dan McNitt, second husband, Fred Kendall, and third husband, Jack Olthof; her brother, Warren Boorman.
 
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, August 25, 2025, at Spring Lake Presbyterian Church. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at church. Interment will take place in Spring Lake Township Cemetery. Memorial Contributions in memory of Ginny may be given to Harbor Hospice Foundation. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services.

John F. Jandron
December 8, 1944-August 17, 2025

John F. Jandron, 80, of Muskegon, passed away on Sunday, August 17, 2025.

He will be remembered as a devoted husband, a man of faith, and someone whose humor and perseverance touched all who knew him.
 
Born in Marinette, Wisconsin, on December 8, 1944, John was the son of Edward and Jeanne (Doran) Jandron. He graduated from Muskegon Catholic Central High School and served his country honorably in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.
 
In 1972, John married the love of his life, Jeanne Comrie, in Muskegon. Together they shared 53 years of marriage filled with love and laughter.
 
John worked more than 25 years as a nursing service supervisor at Ypsilanti State Hospital before owning and operating Mail Boxes Etc. in Holland until his retirement. He was a longtime member of St. Patrick-St. Anthony Catholic Church and a member of the American Legion.
 
A man of simple passions, John loved watching birds, cheering for the Green Bay Packers and Notre Dame football, and keeping dog treats handy for every four-legged friend. His home was always open to visitors.
 
In his later years, John earned the affectionate title of the “Rosy Mound Sheriff.” from his La-Z-Boy, always “on duty” with wit and pride.
 
John is survived by his wife, Jeanne; siblings, Richard (Sue) Jandron, Sheila (Curtis) Twining, Ned (Jill) Jandron, Dan (Cindy) Jandron; brother-in-law, Dan (Cathy) Comrie; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Jim Jandron.
 
A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. August 26 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 2929 McCracken St., Norton Shores. Visitation will take place from 5-7 p.m. Aug. 25 at The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven. 
 
Interment will follow at Lake Forest Cemetery at a future date.
 
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Harbor Hospice Foundation – Poppen Residence. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services.

Robert Dale Hayes
August 20, 1968-August 6, 2025

Robert Dale Hayes, age 56, of Grand Haven, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at home. He was born on August 20, 1968, in Grand Haven to Robert Earl and Rose Mary (Stearns) Hayes.

Robert worked at Federal Mogul until a shoulder injury forced him to retire. He was a lifelong resident of Grand Haven. Robert loved tubing down the Muskegon River with family and friends. He prided himself on being able to repair cars, bikes, literally all things mechanical.

He is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Desirae (Chaise) Hayes – Balcom; stepdaughter, Christina Potter; stepson, Robert Potter; two sisters, Peggy (Randy) Goodin and Mary Rose Rhineburger; his aunt, Celeste Engale – LaForest; and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Sue Ann Hayes.

A celebration of Robert’s life will be from 2-6 p.m. Friday, August 22, 2025, at the Grand Haven Community Center, Mackinaw Room, 422 Columbus Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Bring a dish to pass. 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 guestbook at sytsemafh.com.

Sanford "Mark" Kelley
July 23, 1948-August 10, 2025

Sanford “Mark” Kelley, age 77, of Grand Haven and Tucson, Arizona, passed away on Sunday, August 10, 2025, at home, surrounded by his family. He was born in Grand Haven to Charles and Ethel (Borchers) Kelley. 
 
Mark was a wanna be cowboy, an avid sailor, and enjoyed skiing. He was a founding member of Folds of Honor Michigan Chapter and an advocate for fellow veterans. Having proudly served his country in the U.S. Army in Vietnam, he was awarded the Purple Heart. Mark enjoyed success as an entrepreneur, having built his own communications technology firm.
 
He is survived by his wife of almost 43 years, Kristine; son, Jeffrey (Laurie) Kelley; grandsons: Matthew and Jonathan; siblings: Craig (Dawn) Kelley and Diane (Mark) Donselar.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Ethel; brothers Rodney and Mikel Kelley.
 
A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, August 14, 2025, at First Presbyterian Church in Grand Haven. Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given in Mark’s name to Folds of Honor Michigan. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services.

Marion McDonald
March 5, 1922-August 9, 2025

Marion McDonald, age 103, of Spring Lake, passed away Saturday, August 9, 2025, at a local care facility.

She was born March 5, 1922, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, to Arthur and Annie (Walwyn) Anderson. Marion married Ray Leonard Benjamin McDonald on September 12, 1942, in Hamilton, Ontario, and he preceded her in death on July 6, 2010.

As a skilled seamstress, Marion worked as a sewing instructor for the Singer Sewing Machine Co. at the Livonia Mall. Well past the age of 100, she was still tatting (lace-making), creating lovely doilies, tatting-art and beautiful intricate jewelry. Taking up painting as a centenarian, she proved that it was never too late to try something new, as you might just be really good at it. Marion also enjoyed all needlework projects, a competitive game of Euchre, and thoroughly enjoyed going to the casino to win!

Marion is lovingly remembered by two daughters, Carole (Joe) Cierlak and Phyllis (Frank) Yert; six grandchildren: Renee (Mike) Caliendo, Jodie (Brian) Gamm, Julie (Aaron) Krakow, Sheila (Alan) Strong, Adam (Laura) Cierlak and Keith (Carly) Yert; twelve great-grandchildren: Jade Kroening, Joseph “Joey” Kroening, John Caliendo, Lee Gamm, Claire Gamm, Kylie Krakow, Jacob Krakow, Aidan Krakow, Baileigh (Kyle) Strong – DeYoung, Brendan (Amanda) Strong, Alaina Cierlak, and Raelynn Cierlak; great-greatgrandchild, Aurellio DeYoung. Marion was preceded in death by her sister, Dorothy Austerberry.

A visitation from 3-5 p.m. Wednesday, August 13, 2025, will be at The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Interment will be in Spring Lake Cemetery. Share memories with the family at their online guestbook at sytsemafh.com.

Margaret Kay "Marge" Freeman
July 15, 1941-August 6, 2025

Margaret Kay “Marge” Freeman, age 84, of Grand Haven, passed away Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at home.

She was born July 15, 1941, in Dowagiac, Michigan, to Lyle Matthew and Eva Lenora (Draper) Webster. Marge married Alan E. Freeman on September 3, 1960, at Peace Temple United Methodist Church in Benton Harbor, Michigan. Alan preceded her in death on February 20, 2022.

Margaret graduated from Benton Harbor High School. She lived a life that was full of helping others through her volunteering, Hospice of North Ottawa Community for 31 years, the NOAH Project for seven years, and Love In Action for 12 years, just to name a few. Margaret was also a member of the Esther Circle at United Methodist Church of the Dunes.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Jodie (Ron Kurburski) Freeman; son, Shawn (Kimberly) Freeman; four grandchildren: Brandon (Angelica) Marecek, Andie (Cameron) Young, Harley Freeman, Sloan Freeman; two great-grandchildren, Maxx and Wren; and her stepsister, Sharon Frey.

According to Margaret’s wishes, no service will be held. Memorial contributions to Love In Action or the Noah’s Project are appreciated. 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.

Andrew Way
April 20, 1952-August 3, 2025

Andrew Way, age 73, of Grand Haven, passed away Sunday, August 3, 2025, at Trinity Health Muskegon Hospital. He was born April 20, 1952, in Grand Haven, Michigan, to Russell Warren and Yvonne (Gardner) Way.

Andrew graduated from Spring Lake High School and Western Michigan University. He worked in machine repair for Steelcase. In his heart, he knew he was able to fix anything and was a great mechanic. Andrew loved riding his motorcycle, boating, NASCAR, and watching the University of Michigan football, Detroit Lions, and Detroit Pistons. He enjoyed walks on the pier and boardwalk and stopping for a Pronto-Pup.

He is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Katie (Ron) Carpenter; two sons, David Way and Phillip (Rob) Way; two grandchildren, Roderick Carpenter and Ryan Rodriguez; his sister, Susan Marris; his brother, Russell “Rusty” Way Jr.; his aunt, Gwen (Doug) Noren; and numerous nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents and daughter, Jennifer Way.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 9, 2025, at The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 49456. Friends may meet the family one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at sytsemafh.com.

Martin C. Howard
July 24, 1969-July 28, 2025

Martin C. Howard, age 56, of Grand Haven, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 28, 2025, in an automobile accident.

He was born July 24, 1969, in Grand Haven to Duane Allen and Karen Louise (Hall) Howard.

Martin graduated from Grand Haven High School in 1987. He just retired from Herman Miller company as a quality specialist after 30 years there. Martin was a devoted Green Bay Packers fan and a shareholder in the team. He loved spending time at Lost Luck Tattoo and appreciated Matt Pike as his artist. Martin was an avid golfer, kayaker, perch fisherman, camper, and hiker. He enjoyed morel hunting.

Martin made others become better people. He was a light in this world. He is lovingly remembered by his mother, Karen Ralya; two daughters, Ashley Vance and Erica (Caleb VanDyke) Howard; and the love of his life, Jessica Hawley; his brother, Brad (Melanie) Howard; his “grandchildren” pets, Louie, Bob and Norman; niece, Ella (Shane Plouhar) Kamps; nephew, Thomas Howard; two aunts, Dianna Murray and Victoria (Louis) Johnson; and numerous cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, and grandparents, Martin (Pearl) Howard and Grant (Viola) Hall.

A celebration of life will be 3-6 p.m. Sunday, August 24, 2025, at Pottawatomie Park Shelter 2. Please dress in your Green Bay Packers swag. Memorials to St. Luke Lutheran Church Youth Group in Nunica are appreciated. Arrangements are 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.