Obituaries: July 25, 2026
Judith "Judy" (Van Keulen) Boterenbrood
January 3, 1939-July 22, 2026
Judith Boterenbrood, age 87, of Grand Haven, a cherished soul who touched the lives of many, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at the Allendale Nursing Home.
Born in S. Hertogenbosh, Netherlands, on January 3, 1939, Judith was the beloved daughter of Albert and Corrie VanKeulen, along with her older sister, Litha, all of whom predeceased her.
In a life spanning 87 remarkable years, Judith was a beacon of love and kindness. She graduated from an all-girls school in 1957, laying a foundation for a life dedicated to nurturing others. She found her true calling as a childcare provider; a role she embraced with her characteristic warmth and dedication.
On August 15, 1960, Judith married the love of her life, Bernard. Together, they shared 65 wonderful years filled with adventure and devotion. Their family grew with the births of their children, Arnold (Jane) Boterenbrood, Marjan (Alvin) DeLyons, and Peter (Jill) Boterenbrood, who continue to carry forward her legacy of love. Judith's family was her pride and joy, and she adored her six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense happiness.
Judith was an active member of the Second Reformed Church in Grand Haven for 60 years, where she was known for her infectious smile and caring heart. Her deep faith and commitment to her community were evident in her actions and interactions.
Judith's hobbies were a testament to her generous spirit. She spent countless hours knitting and crocheting for children battling cancer and prayer shawls; her creations offering warmth and comfort to those who needed it most. Judith treasured time spent with her family, often embarking on camping adventures that became cherished memories. Her love extended beyond her human family to her fur-babies, whom she adored tremendously. Judith's love for her flower garden was a testament to her nurturing spirit.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Allendale Nursing and Rehab Center and Faith Hospice for their compassionate care and support. Judith Boterenbrood lived a life full of grace, love, and joy. Her memory will forever be cherished by her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Rest in peace, Judith, knowing that your legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire us all.
A private family memorial will be held in her honor.
In honor of Judith's love for animals, the family suggests Memorial Contributions be made to the Harbor Humane Society in West Olive, MI. Her spirit of giving continues through this gesture, reflecting her lifelong compassion for all living beings.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Judith "Judy" (Van Keulen) Boterenbrood, please visit our floral store.
David Alan Brower
March 4, 1952-July 23, 2026
David Alan Brower, age 74, of Wyoming, Michigan, passed away on July 23, 2026.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Ruth Brower.
He is survived by his daughter, Savanna (Robert) Damato; grandson, Kadin Damato; and granddaughter, Jaelyn Damato. David is also survived by two siblings and their families.
The family would like to thank his neighbors for maintaining a meaningful connection. David often held on to drawings from the children. The family appreciates your kindness and friendship.
Friends and family are invited for visitation from 5-7 p.m. Sunday, July 26, 2026, at Cook Memorial Chapel, 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. Family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.
Frances "Fran" Miller Casemier
May 16, 1925-July 22, 2026
Frances "Fran" Miller Casemier, age 101, of Spring Lake, passed away on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at Bridgeway Park Assisted Living.
She was born on May 16, 1925, in Grand Haven, Michigan, to the late Walter and Gertrude (Klemke) Miller. Fran married Abel Casemier on July 25, 1946, in Grand Haven. He preceded her in death on November 16, 2007, after 61 years of marriage.
Fran graduated from Grand Haven High School and was a lifelong resident of the area. She formerly attended Christ Community Church in Spring Lake for many years and was a former member of the Spring Lake Country Club. Fran loved golfing, playing Bridge, and working on crafts in her younger years. She was known as an excellent cook and enjoyed being a Cub Scout Den Mother for many years. Most dear to Fran’s heart was her family; she especially loved her children and grandchildren.
Fran will be lovingly remembered and missed by her two sons, Craig Casemier of Rockford and Bill Casmier of Grand Haven; her six beloved grandchildren, Ryan (Leanna) Casemier, Jeffrey, Brett, and Christopher Casemier, John (Ashleigh) Casemier, and Andrea (Ben) Pilger; four great-grandchildren, Addelyn, Colt, Harper, and Kennedy; as well as several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and her sister, Carolyn Miller.
A private family graveside service for Fran will be held at Grand Haven Township Historic Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Spring Lake District Library.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Frances "Fran" Miller Casemier, please visit our floral store.
Dorothy Chismar
October 4, 1941-July 11, 2026
Dorothy (Heibel) Chismar, born October 4, 1941, passed away suddenly and peacefully Saturday, July 11, at her home in Holland, Michigan.
The eldest of six children, she was raised in a loving home on a farm in New Salem, Michigan. A lifelong lover of nature, she made it a habit in her later years to never miss a sunset.
Whether she was painting coastal waves and rocky shores when she lived in Oregon in her 20s, or was drawing sunset scenes in pastels in her mid-years, Dot was always adding splashes of color to make things zing. She loved to fill her house with "blue things" just as she liked to energize any conversation she was part of. She played the piano both in religious services and in her home with gusto. She walked fast, thought fast, and kept us all on our toes.
With her warm, affectionate, and enthusiastic personality, although she had just one son, she leaves behind many honorary children and grandchildren who will miss her cheerful and encouraging presence in their lives.
She was preceded in death by her husband, George Chismar; her parents, Cletus and Margie Heibel; her sister, Ruth Striegle; her brother, Linus Heibel; and her sister, Monica England.
She is survived by her son, Barry A. Hendges, of Denver, Colorado; her sister, Tarsie (Neil) Thompson, of Bel Air, Maryland; and her sister, Marian (Russ) Richardson, of Holland, Michigan. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Nancy Heibel; and her brother-in-law, Jamie England.
Memorial services will be at 4 p.m. Saturday, July 25, 2026, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 2854 120th Ave., Holland, Michigan, where she was a longtime faithful and beloved member.
Arrangements are by Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, and condolences may be left online at langelandsterenberg.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Dorothy Chismar, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Elaine Ford Coffill
January 1, 1932-July 22, 2026
Elaine (Ford) Coffill, age 94, died July 22, 2026, following a period in hospice care.
Elaine was born Jan. 1, 1932; the first child born in Holland that year. She earned a bachelor's degree from Hope College in 1954. One day after graduating, Elaine married classmate Richard Coffill, and the couple moved east, where Richard served as pastor for three churches in New York and New Jersey, spending most of his tenure at Deerpark Reformed Church in Port Jervis, New York.
Elaine taught high school English in Westfield, New Jersey. A wonderful seamstress, she was well-known for sewing costumes, clothing and crafts. The family enjoyed many summers of camping in Ocean City, New Jersey.
As choir director at Deerpark Reformed Church, she developed a love for handbell choirs. When the Coffills retired in 1994, they returned to Holland, where Elaine served as a bell choir director at Evergreen Commons and rang with the First United Methodist Church choir.
Elaine was a member of Third Reformed Church.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; daughter-in-law, Valarie Coffill; parents, Harry and Sena Ford; and sister, Wilma Sullivan.
Family members who are grateful for her sense of humor, kindness and wisdom are children, Gretchen (Sam) Narvarte, Randall Coffill, and Harry (Michele) Coffill; grandchildren, Zachary (Ashley) Coffill, Aspen (Daniel Ritter) Narvarte, and Harper Coffill; and great-grandchild, Jackson Coffill.
A graveside service in Port Jervis, New York, will be held at a later date.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Elaine Ford Coffill, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Landon Grant Creevy
September 4, 1985-July 22, 2026
Landon Grant Creevy, born September 4, 1985, in Holland, Michigan, passed away on July 22, 2026.
Although life ended far too soon, Landon filled every chapter of his life with laughter, love, and a spirit that left an unforgettable mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Landon is a beloved son of Chad and Mary Jo Creevy and a devoted brother to Chad K. Creevy (Dana Creevy), and to Jorie Harris (Justin Harris). One of Landon's greatest joys was being the proud "F"uncle to seven cherished nieces: Olivia Hamilton (Brendan Hamilton), Marcy Creevy, Ellesyn Creevy, Lydia Harris, Celia Harris, Emilia Harris, and Cora Harris. Landon treasured every opportunity to make them laugh, cheer them on, and create memories they will carry forever. He was a proud dad to his best furry friend, Carl. He was never far from his side and was one of his greatest companions.
Landon was preceded in death by paternal grandparents, Paul and Shirley Creevy, and maternal grandparents, William and Gladys Sexton.
A graduate of Fennville High School and Central Michigan University, where Landon earned a degree in Broadcasting. He built a career in restaurant and retail management, and most recently at Crane's In The City. Whether with coworkers, customers, family, or friends, Landon had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcomed, valued, and appreciated.
There truly was no one quite like Landon. Quick with a joke, a movie quote, or an animated play-by-play of nearly any sporting event, Landon had an incredible gift for making people laugh. A loyal Michigan State Spartan fan, Landon loved talking sports, golfing with friends, and traveling to Mexico. More than any hobby, Landon loved being surrounded by family and friends. Time together, whether celebrating, golfing, watching a game, or simply sharing a conversation, was what mattered most.
Landon's kindness, infectious laugh, and generous heart touched countless lives. Family members, friends, coworkers, customers, and everyone fortunate enough to cross paths with Landon were better for having known him. He had a rare gift for turning ordinary moments into unforgettable memories and making every room a little brighter simply by being himself.
Though deeply missed, Landon's legacy lives on in every shared laugh, every family gathering, every movie quote, every Spartan victory, and every story that begins with, "Remember when Landon..." Forever loved and never forgotten, Landon's light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Go Green!
A visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Sunday, July 26, at Dykstra Funeral Home - Mulder Chapel, 188 W. 32nd St., Holland. A funeral service will take place at 11 a.m. Monday, July 27, at Pillar Church in Holland, with the Rev. Dr. Jon Brown officiating.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Breakthrough T1D.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Landon, please visit our floral store.
Loretta Kay Dahlke
April 17, 1949-July 22, 2026
Loretta Kay Dahlke passed on July 22, 2026, at the age of 77.
Loretta was a resident of Jenison, Michigan.
No services are scheduled at this time.
Morris Harvey DeVries
May 22, 1935-July 22, 2026
Morris “Morrie” H. DeVries, age 91, of Hudsonville, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, July 22, 2026.
He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Beatrice “Bea” DeVries; children, Mike and Vickie DeVries, Linda and Dan Stabnau, Doug and Gina DeVries, Ruth and Gary Engerson, Karen and Steve DeYoung; 16 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; brother, Dale DeVries; in-laws, Jean DeVries, Fred Visser; many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Case and Bertie DeVries; brother, Allen DeVries; in-laws, Elmer, Harold and Angie, John and Gerry, Harv and Ruth, Don and Neif, Mary.
Morrie was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. He was a hard worker and a great provider. He loved classic cars and going to car shows and he made friends everywhere he went. Morrie was a great storyteller. He will be greatly missed.
Funeral services for Morrie will be at noon Tuesday, July 28, at VanderLaan Funeral Home with visitation prior from 10 a.m. to noon.
Memorial contributions may be made to Gateway Mission.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Morris, please visit our floral store.
Bethany Leigh Frederick
October 27, 1988-July 17, 2026
Bethany Leigh Frederick, 37 years old, was welcomed into the loving arms of her savior on Friday, July 17, 2026, after a battle with cancer.
She was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Charles Frederick and Vicki (Whipple) Frederick.
Beth graduated from homeschool and attended Taylor University in Upland, Indiana. She attended Lifeway Wesleyan Church in New Haven, Indiana. Beth was strong in her faith and her first love was her Lord Jesus, followed by her love for her family. She had a sweet, quiet spirit, but was fun-loving and loved to pull pranks. She was one of those people where “still waters run deep.” One of her uncles described her as someone who “radiated a quiet, yet alert peace. She had a calm that surrounded her.”
She had been active in her church, assisting with the children in Sunday school and directing the Teen Bible Quizzing. She was an avid gardener, enjoyed Lego creations, reading and researching topics of interest, and photography.
Beth is survived by her mother, Vicki Frederick; brother, Andrew (Kylee) Frederick; beloved nephews, Cayman and Emrys Frederick; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her father, Charles (Chuck) Frederick; her grandparents, Walter Basil Whipple, Patsy Whipple Nelson, Edward Nelson, Duaine and Marian Frederick.
A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 25, 2026, at Diamond Springs Wesleyan Church, 3569 136th Ave., Hamilton, MI 49419. Visitation will be 9-11 a.m. prior to the service at the church.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bethany, please visit our floral store.
Kay Lynn Hayes
November 19, 1940-July 21, 2026
Kay Lynn Hayes passed on July 21, 2026, at the age of 85.
Born on November 19, 1940, in Holland, Michigan, Kay Lynn Hayes was a resident of Holland, Michigan.
Visitation will be 1-2 p.m. on August 1, 2026, at Lakeshore Memorial Services, 11939 James St., Holland, 49424, followed by a celebration of life at 2 p.m. at Lakeshore Memorial Services.
William Henry Kaiser Jr.
January 19, 1953-July 17, 2026
William Henry Kaiser Jr. passed away quietly at home, surrounded by his family, on July 17, 2026.
Bill graduated from Three Oaks High School in 1973. In 1974, he joined the Navy and proudly served for four years. Upon leaving the Navy, he resumed working for A.N.R. Pipeline Co., which would later become TransCanada Pipeline. He spent the next 47 years with the pipeline and retired as an EI&C Field Technician in 2020.
Bill's favorite hobbies were music, fishing, Disc Golf and cooking. He also enjoyed woodworking, gardening and spending time with family. He married Cindy in 1979 and together they raised three sons who were all lovingly with him when he passed.
He is survived by his wife, Cindy, of 47 years; sons, Brian J. Kaiser, Benjamin S. Kaiser and William Christopher Kaiser. He has two grandchildren, Sterling Kaiser and Bria Kaiser; sisters, Leann Enix, Jackie McGinty; brothers, Claude Martin, Bobby Martin and Scotty Martin.
Bill was loved by all who knew him and will be sadly missed. We will cherish a lifetime of wonderful memories.
A private ceremony will be held.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William, please visit our floral store.
Ruth Virginia Kaptein
October 21, 1938-July 19, 2026
Ruth Kaptein, age 87, of Hudsonville, went to be with her Lord and savior on July 19, 2026.
Ruth was born on October 21, 1938, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She is the daughter of Clyde and Elsie (Sheldon) Cooper. She married Reuben Kaptein on June 26, 1970. Ruth devoted her life to the Lord and enjoyed all the church functions. She loved to cook; she volunteered at the events for the Christian school and often made the main course for the events. She would often cook meals and bring them out to the harvest field; they always tasted amazing. Ruth had a kind caring personality and loved spending time with her family.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Clyde and Elsie Cooper; her husband, Reuben Kaptein; three brothers, Orville, Ervin and George; and her sister, Margaret Antcliff.
She is survived by her three children, Kim (Jim) Schleh, Wendy (Mitch) Brown and Steve Kaptein; eight grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services for Ruth will be 11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 22, at First Protestant Reformed Church of Holland, 3641 104th Ave., Zeeland, MI 49464. Interment Borculo Cemetery. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. at VanderLaan Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 21.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ruth, please visit our floral store.
Ronald Lee Kommer
April 17, 1935-July 23, 2026
Ronald Lee Kommer passed on July 23, 2026, at the age of 91, having been born on April 17, 1935, and residing in Jenison, Michigan.
No services are scheduled at this time.
Patricia Joyce Peldys
February 6, 1941-July 20, 2026
Patricia Peldys, age 85, passed away July 20, 2026, in Holland, Michigan.
Arrangements are pending with Dykstra Funeral Home - Mulder Chapel.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Patricia, please visit our floral store.
Esperanza Ramos
March 2, 1938-July 20, 2026
Esperanza Ramos, age 88, of Saugatuck, passed away on Monday, July 20, 2026.
Mrs. Mireles was born on March 2, 1938, in Mercedes, Texas, to Inocencio Mireles Sr. and Ramona Perez. She vacationed in Texas often to visit or care for family, which was very important to her.
She was very active in raising her 11 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She married the love of her life, Mr. Robert T. Ramos, on August 4, 1969, and together they enjoyed 56 wonderful years of marriage. For nearly three decades, she was employed at Sligh Furniture.
Mrs. Ramos spent most of her time helping, encouraging and providing HOPE in times of need. Her school education stopped in eighth grade after the passing of her mother, Ramona Perez, to care for her 15 brothers and sisters, as a majority were part of a traveling migrant family working the fields to survive. After marrying Mr. Robert T. Ramos, she continued helping, encouraging and providing HOPE in times that earned her status as the queen of hospitality. Mrs. Ramos is rejoicing up in the heavens as a believer in Christ alongside her parents and 12 brothers and sisters from Texas and Michigan.
She is survived by her husband, Robert T. Ramos; children, Eloy (Patty) Ramos, Gloria Hernandez, Robert (Carol) Ramos Jr. and Eli (Sheila) Ramos; 11 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; brothers, Fidel (Anna) Mireles, Carlos Mireles; and sister, Fela Aleman.
The family will receive visitors 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday, July 31, at the Dykstra Funeral Home - Mulder Chapel, 188 W. 32nd St., Holland. A funeral service will take place following visitation at 2 p.m. at the Mulder Chapel. Father Evelio Ramirez presiding. Interment will take place in East Saugatuck Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741 or Love INC, 4621 135th Ave., Hamilton, MI 49419.
Professional service entrusted to the Mulder Chapel.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Esperanza, please visit our floral store.
Constance Van Den Brand
December 5, 1925-July 23, 2026
Constance Van Den Brand (nee Nienhuis), aged a glorious 100 (and 1/2), of Holland, Michigan, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2026.
Born on December 5, 1925. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and aunt, and a cherished member of the community.
Connie graduated from Holland High School and went on to have a fulfilling career at Peoples State Bank in Holland. Connie enjoyed people most of all, was a talented seamstress and knitter, and a devoted member of her church, teaching Sunday School for many years. She will be remembered for always being there when you needed her, her generosity, her kindness, and a great love for her family.
Connie was preceded in death by her husband, John E. Van Den Brand, and five siblings.
Connie is survived by her children, Robert (Patty) Van Den Brand and Ron (Kristy) Van Den Brand; the light of her life, her grandchildren, Nikki (Matt) Laarman, Brian (Michelle) Van Den Brand, Kristen (Steve) Wiltz, Scott (Lindsey) Ensing, Lindsay (Nick) Sima, and Emily (Trey) Conner; 13 great-grandchildren.
A visitation will be 11 a.m.-noon on Monday, July 27, 2026, with a celebration of life service following at Lakeshore Memorial Service, 11939 James St., Holland, MI 49424.
Carolyn Kay VanderStelt
November 18, 1950-July 22, 2026
After a life full of love, laughter, and mischief, Carolyn (Mortenson) VanderStelt, 75, of Grand Haven passed away peacefully on July 22, 2026, at The Leila & Cyrus Poppen Hospice Residence in Fruitport.
Carolyn was born on November 18, 1950, to Vernon and Arlene Mortenson. She attended Muskegon Heights public schools, Class of 1968. She loved to tell stories of her school-years hijinks, including the fun she had in wearing the unforgettable Tiger mascot costume.
Her greatest source of pride was her daughters, her grandchildren, and her great-grandchild. She absolutely loved spending time with little ones and fawned over every baby she could get her hands on.
While her recent declining health made it impossible for her to pull her famous “all nighters” with any newborn family member, she did get to meet her first great-grandchild, who she loved dearly, if only for a short time.
She is survived by daughters, Nicole (Jim Jr.) Bocks of Zeeland and Amy (Mike) Stringham of Grand Haven; stepson, Greg (Angie) VanderStelt of Muskegon; her grandchildren, Tom Bocks, David Bocks, Emily (Nate) Stringham-Turner, and Sam Stringham (Haley Estermyer); and great-grandson, Martin Turner.
She was preceded in death by her parents and three very important men in her life, all of whom were coincidentally named Bill; her brother, William Mortenson, first husband and father of her daughters, Billy Nelson, and her second husband, William VanderStelt. In her final days, it brought her comfort knowing that when the time came, she would celebrate being reunited with all of those who have gone before her.
Per her request, there will be a private family service at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Harbor Hospice.
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.
Barbara Ann Willink
October 6, 1955-July 23, 2026
On July 23rd, 2026, with arms raised high and fists clenched in victory, Barb finished the race, after having lived out all the days God ordained for her before her life began.
Barb was known for her unwavering faith, compassionate heart, and steadfast love for her family. She sure did love her family, but even more so, oh how she loved her savior! She found joy in the simple blessings of lifetime spent with those she loved, laughter around the table, caring for others and deep dives into the Word of God.
Countless people have benefited from her wisdom & mentorship as well as from her profound theological insights. Her gentle and selfless spirit will continue to influence the lives of those she touched.
She leaves behind, just for a short time, her immediate and extended family who will deeply cherish her impact and live with immense gratitude to God for the gift that she was to them.
She was "Annie" to her husband Bill, "Mom" to her kids Sarah, Josh and Carrie, TJ and Bethany and "Gemy" to her grandchildren, Remy, Jade, Zavia, Sebby, Augie, Solly and Colette.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Vern and JoAnn Haas, and Willard and Gertrude Willink, and three unborn babies, whom she is now reunited with in glory.
Our only comfort in life, and now in death, is that we belong body and soul to our faithful savior, Jesus Christ. Though our hearts are broken, we rejoice in the promise that because of her faith in Jesus Christ, this goodbye is only so very temporary. It is also the reason we can sing with full assurance, "though we'll never meet again this side of heaven, I will meet you on that beautiful shore!"
Bill and Barb's constant declaration throughout her cancer journey was that God is good, he is worthy and we bless his name still. We will continue to affirm that, all the days of our lives.
As her time on earth drew to an end, she was asked if she had any specific requests for her service, to which she said simply this: "Christ be preached, Christ be glorified."
And so we will honor that request through a visitation which will be 5-8 p.m. Friday, July 31, at Parkside Bible Church in Holland, Michigan, and a celebration of life service at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 1, with visitation one hour prior to the service.
Memorial contributions may be given to American Decency Association, Parkside Bible Church Holland MI, or Hope Restored (by Focus on the Family).
The Willink family is being served by the Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home. To leave condolences online, please visit langelandsterenberg.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Barbara Ann Willink, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Mary Jo Wyels
March 18, 1944-July 20, 2026
Mary Jo Wyels, age 82, of Grand Haven passed away Monday, July 20, 2026, after complications from an emergency surgery.
She was born on March 18, 1944, in Detroit, Michigan, to Victor J. and Kathleen (O’Connor) DeSchryver. On December 27, 1967, she married Michael R. Wyels at St. Clair Montefalco Church. Michael preceded her in death on December 14, 1978. She remained married to Michael in her heart until her death.
Mary Jo graduated from Marygrove College with a Library Science Bachelor’s Degree. She then obtained her Master’s Degree in Library Science from the University of Michigan. She worked at Mercy Hospital, first in Detroit, and then for many years in Muskegon as a medical librarian and later, in the same role, at Holland Hospital. Mary Jo was an active member of St. Patrick Parish, where she devoted herself to serving in the 24-hour adoration chapel and as a lector for Mass. She was always ready to volunteer her time and talents, helping with events and different ministries at her parish home.
Faith and Family were what was most important to Mary Jo. She was always there to help, to listen, and to love her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was a source of constant encouragement for her family and friends.
Her other interests were reading, crocheting, making jigsaw puzzles out of wood, origami, and playing cribbage.
She is lovingly remembered by her children, Jennifer Jorgensen, Martin Wyels, Christopher Wyels, and Robert Wyels; 13 grandchildren, Ruben Luna, Jillian Wyels, Carlos Wyels, Lance Beck, Clarissa Wyels, Michael Wyels, Kayla Wyels, Savaeh Wyels, Xzavior Wyels, Anessa Wyels, Alaurah Wyels, Phoebe Wyels, and Dean Wyels; four great-grandchildren, Aiden Tabler, Lukas Wyels, Evangeline Line, and Sebastian Line; two sisters, Kathleen DeSchryver and Celeste (Tom) Mueller; her brother, Joseph (Terri) DeSchryver; her sister-in-law, Julie DeSchryver; her sister-in-law, Ruth Wilber; numerous nieces and nephews; and best friend, “sister by love” Betty Marshall.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Diane Bedard (the late Joseph); her brother, Dennis DeSchryver (the late Diane); and her brother, Thomas DeSchryver.
A Mass of Christian burial will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday, August 5, 2026, with a Rosary at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick Parish in Grand Haven, Michigan. Friends may meet the family at the church an hour prior to the Mass.
Memorial contributions in memory of Mary Jo may be given to St. Patrick Food Pantry. 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.
