Obituaries: July 2025

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

Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services

JoAnn Reed Johnson
August 6, 1951-July 21, 2025

JoAnn Reed Johnson left this earthly world peacefully on Monday, July 21, 2025. 
 
She was a 1969 graduate of Grand Haven High School, after which she moved to San Francisco. There, she attended the private California School of Arts and Crafts, now the California College of Arts, where she specialized in jewelry design. She would go on to create beautiful jewelry for sale in Bay Area shops and boutiques. During this time, the radiant, statuesque blonde would also enjoy many modeling opportunities
 
JoAnn was a true Bohemian at heart. The child of the '60s was a lifelong connoisseur and avid student of pop culture; an enthusiast for film, visual arts, music, and fashion, as well as Native American jewelry and artifacts. She had a powerful yet tender personality and could be outspoken, especially when it came to women’s rights. Among her many cherished memories are summer days spent with friends and family aboard the Galleon, the family yacht. In describing JoAnn, her uncle Mart Johnson lovingly said, “… And well, that JoAnn, she is just a mystery.” 
 
‘’I could not stay another day, To laugh or love or sing or play; Tasks left undone must stay that way. I found my peace at close of play.” ~ Anonymous
 
She is survived by her sister, Bari S. Johnson; dear friend, Bethany Bricker, and many special family members and fun friends.
 
She was predeceased by her parents, Charlotte (Albertine) Johnson and Paul A. Johnson, as well as her longtime partner, David Lowery. 
 
Friends are invited to celebrate JoAnn from 5-6 p.m. Monday, August 11, at Tip Two. Should you choose, donations may be made to The Diva Fund of the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation or the Johnson Leadership Scholarship Endowment at Grand Valley State University. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services.

Richard Allen Capek Sr.
September 28, 1932-July 23, 2025

Richard Allen Capek, Sr., age 92, of Spring Lake, Michigan, passed away at his home on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. 

He was born on September 28, 1932, in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Otto Victor Capek Sr. and Mildred Ann (Anderle) Capek. Richard attended and graduated from Morton High School in Cicero, Illinois, in 1950. He also attended Morton Junior College for two years, and then attended and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Illinois Urbana in 1954. Stationed in Germany, he served in the United States Army in the Korean War.  Richard met and dated Anne Catherine Murphy after high school and while they were in college. They married on December 7, 1954.
 
Richard worked as a Mechanical Engineer, Professional Engineer (P.E.) for International Harvester, Teledyne Continental Motors, and retired from General Dynamics in Muskegon, Michigan. He returned to work at the age of 70 and worked for General Dynamics in North Africa and in Casa Blanca, Morocco for two additional years. Richard and Anne and family moved to Michigan in 1969 and moved to Sparta, Michigan, in 1975 and bought a 100-acre apple orchard that they farmed for 12 seasons. Richard and Anne moved to Spring Lake in 1984 and lived there and wintered in Tucson, Arizona, for 30 years. They spent the past three winters in Florida. Richard and Anne loved to travel and have done that extensively for the past 40-plus years. Richard and Anne have been Ministers of the Eucharist, Catechism teachers, marriage counselors, led youth groups and many other groups over the years in the Catholic Church. They raised and loved their family and enjoyed annual picnics and holiday dinners with as many as they could gather.
 
Richard is survived by his wife, Anne; and his children, Jane Capek-Myers, Richard Capek Jr. (Ann), Stephen Capek (Janice), Carol Capek (Greg), Ellen VanderWel (Dennis); 18 grandchildren; and 25 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Ray (MaryAnn Kelley), and his sister-in-law, Rochelle Murphy Joseph, along with many cousins and nieces and nephews on both sides of his family.
 
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, and in-laws, as well as his daughter, and son-in-law, Mary Capek-Charrette and Michael Charrette; his son, and daughter-in-law, Andrew and Jill (Butler) Capek; daughter-in-law, Pam (McGregor) Capek; son-in-law, Timothy Potes; his brother, Otto Capek Jr.; his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law on the Murphy side, and great-grandson, Lucas Nuppnau. 
 
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 1, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with Rev. William Vander Werff as celebrant. Friends may meet the family from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, July 31, at The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 49456, with a scripture service and time of sharing at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home. Memorials to St. Mary’s Catholic School are appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at sytsemafh.com.

Charles "Chuck" Holman
February 26, 1941-July 21, 2025

Charles “Chuck” Holman, age 84, of Ferrysburg, MI, passed away peacefully at home on July 21, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was born February 26, 1941, in Grand Haven to William and Margaret (Wagonmaker) Holman. On May 26, 1961, he married Ann Warmenhoven in Grand Rapids.

Chuck lived a life centered around service, hard work, and caring for others. He was a longtime member of Ferrysburg Community Church and proudly served his community in many capacities.

He was a volunteer firefighter for 38 years, including serving as Assistant Chief for the Ferrysburg Fire Department for 25 years and as Deputy Chief with the Spring Lake Fire Department for 13 years. He was a past president of the Michigan Fire Instructors Association and an honorary member of the South Haven Fire Department, leaving a lasting legacy in Michigan's firefighting community. He also served as a fire instructor at the Palisades Nuclear Plant, where he trained firefighters and emergency responders for 13 years.

In addition to his work in public safety, Chuck worked for 21 years with 7UP and Brooks Beverage in Holland, MI. After retiring from the beverage industry and fire instruction, he continued his passion for helping others by working at VanZantwick Bartels Kammeraad Funeral Homes, and later with Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, providing care and compassion to families during their most difficult times.

Chuck loved his family, especially his grandchildren. He also enjoyed biking, kayaking, walking the Grand Haven pier, and cheering for Michigan State University sports.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Ann; four children: Kevin Holman, Kerri (John) Stallmer, Ross (Tamie) Holman, and Marc (Shaunna) Holman; fourteen grandchildren: Sammy (Reid) Nicholson, Victoria (Jeff) Banas, Elizabeth (Jake) Passorelli, Celine (Brian) Rohrbacher, Andrew (Lilly) Stallmer, Cassie Stallmer, Olivia Stallmer, Kirstin (Brandon) Correa, Brianna Holman, Haley (Matt Callan) Holman, Ashley (James) Newton, Leah Holman, Anna Holman and Nicholas Davis; eleven great-grandchildren: Oakland, Lyla, Ezekiel, Addie, Owen, Kaden, Gideon, Dawson, Liesel, Marcus, Henley; and his brother, Bill (Jeanine) Holman; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Karen Holman, and his nephew, Brad Holman.

Chuck will be remembered for his selfless dedication, his commitment to the well-being of others, and his kind and compassionate spirit.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, July 25, 2025, at Ferrysburg Community Church. Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Thursday, July 24, 2025, at The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Interment will take place at Lake Forest Cemetery. Memorial contributions in memory of Chuck may be made to Ferrysburg Community Church and Shields of Hope. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services.

Patricia A. Hocking
August 9, 1943-July 19, 2025

Patricia A. Hocking, age 81, of Muskegon, passed away Saturday, July 19, 2025, at The Leila & Cyrus Poppen Hospice Residence.

She was born on August 9, 1943, in Muskegon, MI, to Anthony and Eilene (DeWitt) Horvath. Patricia married Richard J. Hocking; he preceded her in death on August 13, 2023.

Patricia graduated from Muskegon Heights High School. She worked in quality control for Muskegon Piston Ring for many years. Patricia loved knitting, embroidery and crafting.

Patricia is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Melisa (Jeffrey) Miller; two grandchildren, Madison (Eléa) Miller and Hannah Miller; and her brother, Reginald (Sherry) Horvath.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Barry Horvath and Ronald (Glenda) Horvath.

A private graveside service for Patricia will be held at Norton Cemetery. Memorials to Harbor Hospice 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.

Dr. Randolph Stano
July 7, 1944-July 16, 2025

Dr. Randolph Stano, 81, of Spring Lake, Michigan, passed away on July 16 surrounded by his loved ones. He will be remembered for his unwavering strength in spirit, commitment to his family, deep faith and love of country. 

He was born on July 7, 1944 (or as Randy would say, “7-7-44, the square root of which is 88”) in Erie, Pennsylvania to Anthony and Veronica (Markiewicz) Stano. The family moved to Muskegon where he spent his youth, and he graduated from Muskegon Catholic Central. Randolph attended the University of Michigan, where he earned his doctorate of Dental Science. After graduating in 1969, he resided in Spring Lake and opened a dental practice in Fruitport, Michigan. Later, he worked for Aetna in Grand Rapids.

Randolph was diagnosed with a debilitating spinal disease in his late 20s, leading to a life of daily chronic pain. This terminal diagnosis and later kidney disease only strengthened his determined spirit. He threw himself into life fully, creating a life of adventure with his wife and family. As season ticket holders, the family spent decades tailgating on the golf course and in the Big House, cheering on his beloved Wolverines. Within Ottawa County, he initiated groups and organizations, including the Grand River Sailing Club (founding member) and The Bookman (co-founder). He was an active member of the HAM radio community (NOARC, formerly known as GHACF), Investment Club, and the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

During his 48 years of marriage to Karen (Westedt), the adventure continued into retirement, where they journeyed to over 50 countries, and all 50 states, by motorhome or on cruises. During their travels, he never missed an opportunity to turn a stranger into a friend, leading to many friends in all parts of the world. 
He is survived by his wife, Karen; daughters Stephanie (Todd), and Amy (Caleb); two grandchildren, Will, and Drew; and one sister, Beverly (Tony). 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Veronica; brother, Gary; and sister, Elaine.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Spring Lake, with the Rev. William Vander Werff officiating. Friends may meet the family one-hour prior, with a rosary at 10 a.m. Please consider a memorial donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, or National Parks Conservation Association. 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 Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Scott Daniel Conway
May 2, 1956-July 12, 2025

Scott Daniel Conway, of Spring Lake, left this earthly world suddenly and unexpectedly on Saturday, July 12, due to a health complication.

He was born in Muskegon, MI, on May 2, 1956, to George Gale Conway and Norma Lillian Conway (nee Schmeichel), and grew up in Spring Lake, MI.

Scott leaves behind his wife, Krista, of 38 years, and sons, Cy, Sean, and Cole (Sydney) Conway, as well as his companion Weimaraner, Lucy, and many friends he made over the years.

Scott graduated from Spring Lake High School in 1974 and attended Grand Valley State University. After a decade of wandering the west, he settled in Spring Lake and built a second home in Arcadia, Michigan, eventually retiring from Grand Haven Township as a zoning administrator and building inspector.

Scott was a gregarious, outgoing person with many, many friends who are equally saddened at Scott’s passing. Scott loved life and being around people, whether it was finding powder to ski on in the west or with all his friends and family at Crystal Mountain, from a love for old wooden boats and being on the water or on the beach in the spring, summer, and fall to just being somewhere with friends, telling stories. But, best of all, Scott loved surrounding himself with dogs, friends, and family — young and old — around the dining room table in Arcadia, Michigan.

A celebration of Scott’s life is planned for the early evening of Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Spring Lake Yacht Club for family and all his friends. Details to come. Tributes can be made to: Mulligan’s Hollow Ski Bowl. 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.

Cynthia Jean "Cindy" Pelton
April 14, 1952-July 9, 2025

Cynthia Jean “Cindy” Pelton, age 73, of Grand Haven, passed away Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at The Leila and Cyrus Poppen Hospice Residence.

She was born April 14, 1952, in Grand Rapids, MI, to Leland and Eula (Osburn) Fox. She married James “Jim” Pelton Jr. on November 21, 1969, in Grand Haven.

Cindy worked for Grand Haven Public Schools in environmental services for 20 years. She loved ceramics and adored watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Cindy is lovingly remembered by her husband, James “Jim” Pelton Jr.; two sons, Dave Pelton and Mike Pelton; three grandchildren: Lindsey Pelton, Mason Pelton, and Alyssa Chandler; two great-grandchildren, Scarlett and Alistor; her sister, Yavette Johnson; one brother, Rick (Cathy) Fox; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and three brothers, Gary, Gene and Jerry Fox.

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.

A. Joan Ver Berkmoes
May 8, 1926-July 5, 2025

A. Joan Ver Berkmoes, 99, of Grand Haven passed away at home on July 5, 2025, surrounded by family. 

She was born on May 8, 1926. She married the late Joseph H. Ver Berkmoes on November 17, 1950, in Grand Haven, where they have resided. They were members of First Reformed Church and also Unity Church in Muskegon. Joan was a homemaker for most of her life. She enjoyed cooking, quilting and crafts. Also, she enjoyed collecting rocks and making jewelry.
 
Joan is survived by sons, Gordon L. (Janet) of Florida, and Stephen J. of the home; daughter, Victoria (Glane) Erickson of Oklahoma; grandchildren, Elise (David) Mull, Travis (Mindy) Erickson, Angela Watson, Phillip (Taylor) Ver Berkmoes, and Michael (Chelsea) Ver Berkmoes; 12 great-grandchildren, Jacob, Jessica, Kaylee, Haylee, Cade, Nicholas, Theo, Victoria, Veronica, Honour, Zeal, and Valor; 4 great-great-grandchildren, Ayden, Kale, Bentley, and Calvin; and her adopted family, Paul and Matt Raggl.
 
A private graveside service for family to be held on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Lakeshore Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Unity Spiritual Center of Muskegon, 1735 Peck St., Muskegon, MI 49441.
 
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Joseph Indian School, P.O. Box 326, Chamberlain, SD 57326 or Trinity Health at Home – Grand Haven, 1027 S. Beacon Blvd., Grand Haven, MI 49417.
 
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.  

Debra Lee Glover
November 29, 1951-July 5, 2025

Debra Lee Glover, age 73, of Grand Haven, passed away, Saturday, July 5, 2025, at Trinity Health Muskegon Hospital.

She was born November 29, 1951, in Yates Center, Kansas, to Harry and Willmena (McCleese) Morgan. She married Dick Glover on August 3, 1968, in Grand Haven, MI.

Debra loved spending time at the family cabin on North Lake, and she was always up for a trip to any casino. Most of all she was a wonderful wife, mother, and enjoyed always having her grandchildren over.

Debra is lovingly remembered by her husband, Dick Glover; daughter, Heather (Troy) Ryder; two sons, Dick Glover Jr., and Adam (Pamela) Glover; six grandchildren: Gage (Cloey) Ryder, Seth (Madison Keller) Ryder, Avereigh Ryder, Megan (Tom) Saelens, Isla Glover, and Phil Nass; three great-grandchildren: Iris, Adline and Kyler; her sister, Karen (Wayne) Ritter; two brothers, Pete (Kris) Morgan and Harry (Kathy) Morgan.

She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Jennifer Nass; her brother, Buddy Morgan, and her sister, Sandra Langlois.

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

A. Joan Ver Berkmoes
May 8, 1926-July 5, 2025

A. Joan Ver Berkmoes, 99, of Grand Haven passed away at home on July 5, 2025, surrounded by family. 

She was born on May 8, 1926. She married the late Joseph H. Ver Berkmoes on November 17, 1950, in Grand Haven, where they have resided. They were members of First Reformed Church and also Unity Church in Muskegon. Joan was a homemaker for most of her life.  She enjoyed cooking, quilting, and crafts. Also, she enjoyed collecting rocks and making jewelry.
 
Joan is survived by sons, Gordon L. (Janet) of Florida, and Stephen J. of the home; daughter, Victoria (Glane) Erickson of Oklahoma; grandchildren, Elise (David) Mull, Travis (Mindy) Erickson, Angela Watson, Phillip (Taylor) Ver Berkmoes, and Michael (Chelsea) Ver Berkmoes; 12 great-grandchildren, Jacob, Jessica, Kaylee, Haylee, Cade, Nicholas, Theo, Victoria, Veronica, Honour, Zeal, and Valor; 4 great-great-grandchildren, Ayden, Kale, Bentley, and Calvin; and her adopted family, Paul and Matt Raggl.
 
A private graveside service for family to be held on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at Lakeshore Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 1 PM at Unity Spiritual Center of Muskegon, 1735 Peck St., Muskegon, MI 49441.
 
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Joseph Indian School, P.O. Box 326, Chamberlain, SD 57326 or Trinity Health at Home — Grand Haven, 1027 S. Beacon Blvd., Grand Haven, MI 49417.
 
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.