Obituaries: July 31, 2026
Our thoughts and prayers are with these local families.
Ma Carolina Alvarez-Salgado
May 27, 1950-July 28, 2026
Ma Carolina Alvarez-Salgado passed on July 28, 2026, at the age of 76.
A memorial visitation will be 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on August 2, 2026, at Lakeshore Memorial Services, 11939 James St., Holland, 49424.
Wilma Busscher
July 29, 2026
Wilma Busscher, age 99, of Zeeland, went home to be with her Lord and savior Wednesday, July 29, 2026.
Wilma was born April 20, 1927, in Zeeland, Michigan, to Frank and Della (Idema) Walters. Wilma met Kenneth Busscher, and they married June 11, 1947. Wilma and Ken raised their family in Zeeland and ran the family contracting business, Busscher Builders. Wilma and Ken were also longtime members of North Street Christian Reformed Church, where Wilma led and served in the Ladies Society. In 2004, Kenneth was 81 years old when he preceded Wilma in death. She was also preceded in death by her son Wayne Busscher in 2024, her daughter-in-law Luanne Busscher in 2026, and her great-granddaughter Grace Busscher in 2008.
She is survived by her children, Larry and Peg Busscher, Jack Busscher, Val Busscher, Nancy and Norm Hoekstra, Kel and Kim Busscher, Rita and Jeff Austhof, and Mark and Ruth Busscher; her 22 grandchildren and 46 great-grandchildren; her brother, Jason Walters, and her sisters-in-law, Lillian Busscher and Rose Busscher.
Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Friday, July 31, at the Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland MI 49464. The service to honor the faith and life of Wilma Busscher will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, August 1, 2026, at North Street Christian Reformed Church, 20 East Main Ave., Zeeland MI 49464. Interment will be in Zeeland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to the Christian School of your choice.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Wilma Busscher, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Timothy "Tim" Dean Ensign
August 22, 1951-July 29, 2026
Timothy "Tim" Dean Ensign, age 74, of Grand Haven, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at Holland Hospital after a courageous battle with service-connected throat cancer.
He was born on August 22, 1951, in Youngstown, Ohio, to the late Wilbur and Betty (Allen) Ensign.
Tim shared two important chapters in his life through marriage. He first married Leslie Graves, and together they welcomed two daughters, Megan and Lindsay. He later married Maribeth Stankich, and together they welcomed two sons, Timothy and David. Tim's family grew in different seasons of his life, and each of his children and grandchildren held a special place in his heart.
A proud veteran, Tim honorably served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. His military service remained an important part of who he was, and the service-connected illness he faced later in life reflected the sacrifices he made for his country.
Tim was a skilled mason whose craftsmanship reflected the pride he took in a job well done. He enjoyed camping, spending time outdoors, reading, collecting clocks, and preparing meals for family and friends. He appreciated life's simple pleasures and found happiness in sharing them with others.
One of Tim's greatest gifts was his imagination. His children will forever remember the funny, imaginative stories he created, spinning tales that made them laugh, wonder, and eagerly wait to hear what happened next. Those stories became treasured family memories and were one of the many ways he expressed his love. His grandchildren were fortunate to experience that same playful spirit.
Those who knew Tim will remember his resilience, his quiet strength, and his willingness to lend a hand. He faced life's challenges with determination and left behind a lifetime of memories that will continue to be shared through the stories, laughter, and traditions of those who loved him.
Tim is lovingly remembered by his daughters, Megan (Aaron) Boos and Lindsay (Andy) White; his sons, Timothy and David Ensign; his grandchildren, Andrew, Ethan, and Anna Boos; his brother, David (Tanja) Ensign; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbur and Betty Ensign; his wife, Maribeth Stankich; his daughter, Alicia Ensign; and his brothers, Robert, Russell, and William Ensign.
A celebration of Tim's Life will be held at a later date with details to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorial contributions be made to the West Michigan Veterans Coalition, whose mission is to support local veterans, service members, and their families throughout West Michigan.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Timothy "Tim" Dean Ensign, please visit our floral store.
Bruce Alvin Duimstra
August 5, 1952-July 29, 2026
Bruce Alvin Duimstra passed on July 29, 2026, at the age of 73.
Bruce was a resident of Hudsonville, Michigan, and was born on August 5, 1952.
Ruth Elizabeth Howell
March 13, 1941-July 28, 2026
Ruth Howell (nee Alexander), age 85, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of deep faith, music, warmth, and a life well-traveled.
Born on March 13, 1941, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and raised in Muskegon, Ruth was the cherished daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Earl Alexander.
Above all else, Ruth had a huge love for Jesus Christ. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, and through her grace, kindness, and devotion, she brought many others to that faith over the years.
Her remarkable musical talents were a natural extension of her spiritual devotion. As a child, she was awarded a prestigious scholarship to Interlochen for singing, though she ultimately chose to attend Hope College to study music. Her beautiful voice became a staple of community and worship, as she frequently performed at churches throughout West Michigan.
Professionally, Ruth possessed a compassionate heart and a keen eye for beauty. She dedicated herself to caring for others as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at Pine Rest and later expressed her creative talents as an interior designer at Ethan Allen. Ruth’s life was also defined by deep family connections and a spirit of adventure.
She is survived by her loving husband, Daniel Howell, whom she married on December 26, 2001. Together, they built a wonderful life, living in Grandville and Leighton Lakes (Wayland), Michigan. Embracing their retirement years, Ruth and Dan bought a motorhome and traveled across the country, making unforgettable memories before eventually settling down under the warm sun in Naples, Florida, and finally coming back home to Grand Rapids, Michigan, (Waterford Place) in 2023.
In addition to being survived by her husband, Daniel Howell.
She is survived by her sister-in-law, Esther Ross, and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Jim and Faye Howell. She was a devoted mother to her two sons, Craig West and Rich Thomas, and her four stepchildren, Matt Howell, Joan Slonka, Janelle Coyne, and Laura Howell. She took immense pride in being a grandmother to her 14 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.
Ruth’s unwavering faith, melodic spirit, adventurous heart, and dedication to her family will be dearly missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.
Celebration of Ruth’s life will be at 3 p.m. Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Waterford Place, 1725 Port Sheldon St., Jenison, MI 49428, in the Multipurpose Room (enter through main entrance and reception will direct you). Lunch will be provided.
The family is asking for donations in lieu of flowers to be made to Mission India missionindia.org/ways-to-give/?referral=BTN2607 or P.O. Box 141312, Grand Rapids, MI 49514-1312.
The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.
Jean Angeline Hutt
March 31, 1933-July 29, 2026
Jean Hutt of Holland, Michigan, passed away on Jul 29, 2026.
Visitation will be 2-4 p.m. on Aug. 2 at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland, MI 49423-4213. A funeral service will be at 1 p.m. Aug. 4 at the funeral home.
Burial will be in Zeeland Cemetery at Lincoln and Church Street, Zeeland, MI 49464.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Jean Angeline Hutt, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Michael John Nyhof
February 20, 1977-July 29, 2026
Michael John Nyhof, age 49, passed away on Wednesday, July 29, 2026.
Michael was a witty and charismatic man. He was a dedicated worker, being a part of the family business for 30-plus years, "Holland Equipment Hunters." He loved traveling everywhere and always sought adventure and often found himself on a beach. He was a great father who loved his kids and really loved being a new grandpa. He was loved and will be deeply missed and remembered.
He is survived by his children, Brody and Allyson Nyhof (Sadie and Esme), Micah Nyhof, Bailey Nyhof, Melina Nyhof, Brynley Nyhof; parents, Ronald and Deborah Nyhof; brother, Mitchell and Racquel Nyhof; brother, Matthew and Estella Nyhof; his niece and several nephews, and extended family.
Visitation with the family is from 4-6 p.m. on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at Langeland Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland, MI 49423.
Funeral services are at 1 p.m. on Monday, August 3, 2026, also at Langeland Sterenberg Funeral Home.
Burial will take place in Riverside Cemetery in Saugatuck, Michigan.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Michael John Nyhof, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Glen Richard Perkin
March 6, 1942-July 30, 2026
Glen Richard Perkin, age 84 of Hudsonville, went home to be with his Lord and savior on Thursday, July 30, 2026.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Karen; his children, Christine and Ronald Feenstra, Mark and Lori Perkin, and Brian Perkin; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Zachary Feenstra and his fiancé Chelsea Eisen, Jason and Sage Feenstra (Ezra and Asa), Ellyse and Thade Radosa, Abigail Perkin, Matthew Perkin, Sabina Perkin, and Caden Perkin.
Glen graduated from Holt High School, where he led a Bible club. He also graduated from Grand Rapids School of Bible and Music. Glen attended Wellspring Community Church in Hudsonville. He was active in his former churches where he taught Sunday school, led singing, helped at Christmas programs, and was an usher. Glen enjoyed the outdoors, woodworking, camping, and he also walked the Mackinaw Bridge on Labor Day for several years. He was a member of the Journey Motorhome Club and Michigan Knights of the Highway. Prior to his retirement, Glen worked at H.H. Cutler as an accountant; he was a self-employed insurance agent and the owner of Perkin RV Center.
The family would like to thank the staff at Interim Hospice and The Oaks at Jamestown for their wonderful care, friendship, and support over the past several months.
Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Wellspring Community Church, 4466 Bauer Road, Hudsonville. The funeral service to honor Glen’s life will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, August 7, 2026, also at the church. Interment will be in Floral View Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be given to Hand2Hand.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Glen Richard Perkin, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Wallace "Reggie" Reginald Struntz II
August 6, 1972-July 24, 2026
Wallace "Reggie" Reginald Struntz II, age 53, of Grand Haven, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, July 24, 2026.
He was born on August 6, 1972, in Grand Haven, Michigan, to Wallace and Almeda (Sturgeon) Struntz.
Reggie married the love of his life, Melissa Valles, on October 17, 1992, in Grand Haven, beginning a marriage filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion.
A lifelong resident of the Tri-Cities area, Reggie graduated from Spring Lake High School before proudly serving his country in the United States Navy from 1991 to 1997 during the Gulf War era. His time in the military reflected the same strength, dedication, and sense of duty that he carried throughout his life.
For 29 years, Reggie worked as a lineman for Charter Spectrum, a career that showcased his incredible work ethic and willingness to do whatever it took to provide for his family. He was known for lending a helping hand to anyone in need and never hesitated to put others before himself. He found peace outdoors, whether he was hunting, fishing, camping, or riding his motorcycle down an open road. But above all else, Reggie's greatest joy came from the people he loved. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and an adoring grandfather whose happiest moments were spent surrounded by his family. His quiet strength, dependable nature, generous spirit, and caring heart will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.
Reggie will be forever loved and deeply missed by his devoted wife of 33 years, Melissa; his daughter, Bianca (Brett) Borkowski; his son, Travis (Alyssa Kladder) Struntz; his cherished grandchildren, Ivy, Adalay, Maverick, and twins on the way; his sisters, Trisha (Bob) Valles, Christina (Darren) Clark, Mary and Angela Struntz; his brothers, John and Richard Struntz; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Frank and Sue Valles; his brothers-in-law, Bob and Dave Valles; countless aunts, uncles, and cousins; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives he touched.
A memorial service for Wallace "Reggie" Struntz II will take place at 5 p.m. on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Watermark Church. Full military honors will be performed by the American Legion Charles A. Conklin Post 28 and the United States Navy. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in Reggie's honor.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Wallace "Reggie" Reginald Struntz, II, please visit our floral store.
David Glen Vander Zwaag
February 16, 1949-July 30, 2026
David Glen Vander Zwaag, age 77, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2026, after a courageous battle with colon cancer.
David was born on February 16, 1949, in Zeeland, Michigan, to Paul and Florence Vander Zwaag. As the oldest of three children, he grew up on the farm alongside his two sisters and graduated from West Ottawa High School. Following graduation, he attended Andrews University for a short period of time, where he studied agriculture before beginning a lifetime of hard work and service to others.
David proudly served in the Michigan National Guard for ten years, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. He was a dedicated businessman and entrepreneur, owning and operating Tulip City Standard, Tulip City Towing, and B&J Towing. Later in life, he returned to one of his greatest passions, working on the family farm, Crisp Country Acres, where he found immense joy in farming and delivering produce.
David was a loyal sports fan who rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his favorite teams. He was an avid University of Michigan supporter and faithfully followed the Detroit Lions, Detroit Pistons, and Detroit Tigers through every season, good or bad.
Those who knew David will remember his incredible sense of humor and his ability to make others laugh. He had a gift for bringing smiles to people, even during difficult times. His generous spirit and caring nature touched countless lives. He genuinely cared about people and was always willing to lend a helping hand. His employees were more than employees; they were family. He took care of them, supported them when they needed it most, and earned their respect, loyalty, and love in return.
Above all else, David loved his family. He cherished his wife, Kimberley, who was not only his partner of nearly 30 years but also his best friend. Their years together were filled with love, friendship, laughter, and unwavering devotion to one another. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend who found great joy in the people he loved.
David was also a man of deep and abiding faith. He loved Jesus, found comfort and strength in God’s Word, and faithfully relied on the Lord throughout every season of his life. His faith guided the way he lived, loved, forgave, and cared for others. Whether facing life’s blessings or its challenges, he trusted God wholeheartedly and lived as an example of quiet faithfulness.
Even throughout his illness, David’s grateful heart never wavered. During the final months of his life, he continually thanked the nurses and caregivers who cared for him. He looked for opportunities to encourage them, make them smile, and remind them how appreciated they were. His kindness, humility, and gentle spirit remained evident until the very end.
David will be remembered for his quick wit, unwavering loyalty, generous heart, and remarkable ability to make people laugh, even during life’s most difficult moments. He lived a life marked by hard work, faith, forgiveness, compassion, and love. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched, the family he treasured, and the example he set through his kindness, humility, strength, and steadfast trust in the Lord.
While his family grieves his loss, they find comfort in knowing that David’s faith has become sight and that he is now at peace in the presence of the Savior he loved so dearly.
David is survived by his wife of 30 years, Kimberly Vander Zwaag; children, Dan (Patti) Vander Zwaag, Debbie (Jarade) Olson, Matthew (Amber) Baumann, and Kaycee Kay; grandchildren, Gracelynn Olson, Garrett Olson, Jacob Vander Zwaag, Madeline (Isrrael Torres) Vander Zwaag, Ava Baumann, Kaydence Braden, Raygen Braden, Gannon Braden, and Mayzee Braden; mother-in-law, Sharon Forgette; brother-in-law, Scott (Renee) Wagenmaker; and many nieces and nephews.
David was preceded in death by his parents, Paul (Florence) Visser; sisters, Carol Lampers and Mari (Doug) Visser; father-in-law, Kenneth Wagenmaker; brother-in-law, Kenneth Dale Wagenmaker; and step-father-in-law, Charles Forgette.
Visitation will be 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on August 4, 2026, at West Olive Church, 8374 First Ave., West Olive, MI 49460, followed by the funeral service at 1 p.m. West Olive Church, 8374 First Ave., West Olive, MI 49460.
