Obituaries: July 6, 2026
Sally J. Anderson
March 16, 1960-June 25, 2026
Sally J. Anderson, age 66, of Holland, died Thursday, June 25, 2026, at Corewell Health Butterworth Campus from complications of a lingering illness.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Marjorie Anderson, and sibling, Charles Anderson.
Sally graduated from Holland High School, class of 1978, and was a member of Trinity Reformed Church. She worked as an IT specialist for the Godfrey Lee and Grand Haven Public School systems.
She is survived by her siblings, John (Cheryl) Anderson, Barbara (John) Kasper, David (Aubrey) Anderson; nieces and nephew, Michael Anderson, Laura (Cameron) Bredice (Isabella Ann), Sarah Anderson; several aunts, uncles and cousins.
A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland. Interment will be in Pilgrim Home Cemetery. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service on Thursday, July 9.
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Paula Lynn Batema
August 5, 1949-July 1, 2026
Paula Batema (Czinder) passed away on July 1, 2026.
Born August 5, 1949, in Grand Haven, Michigan.
Paula was blessed with 39 years of marriage to Steve Batema. They were married in Oswego, New York, in 1986.
Paula graduated from Spring Lake High School in 1967, where she competed in many roller skating competitions. She was later the sole owner of Petal Palace florist shop in South Haven for 11 years, and also retained her amateur radio operator's license in 1982 (N8EMV).
She will be missed by her husband, Steve Batema, and her four stepchildren, Shane Batema, Shawn Batema, Michelle Batema, and Melissa Hue, along with seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild; Cousin Bonnie (Pete) and Dave Koronkiewicz; Sara Koronkiewicz and Ryan and wife Jonie Koronkiewicz; and best friend, Nancy Judy.
Paula was preceded in death by her parents, Hazel Czinder and Paul Czinder. Paula will be remembered fondly by those close to her for her love of traditions, sense of humor, quick sarcastic comebacks, strength and generosity, and, of course, her walking pharmacy, but above all, she loved and cherished her family, who were her greatest source of pride and joy.
In honor of Paula, the family kindly asks that any donations or contributions be made to Hospice of Holland.
A celebration of life will take place 2-5 p.m. on August 15, 2026, at the Grand Haven Elks Club, 15 S. Third St., Grand Haven, MI 49417.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Paula, please visit our floral store.
Roger DeCook
January 17, 1940-July 2, 2026
Our beloved Roger DeCook of Holland, Michigan, entered into eternal peace on July 2, 2026, surrounded by family.
He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Cherie; his two children, Aaron (Julie) and Alex (Tayler Hill); his grandchildren, Alivia, Pepper, Abraham, and Noah. He also leaves behind his sister, Arlene (Dick) Ruhala; brother-in-law, Paul Klomparens; and his sons of the heart whom he loved as his own, Michael (Erin) Jackson and Shawn (Allison) Eddy.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Mildred and Willis; sister, Marilyn (Paul) Klomparens; and brother-in-law, Dick Ruhala.
Roger graduated from Holland High with the Class of 1958. He honorably served on active duty in the U.S. Air Force, Airman First Class from 1961 to 1964, where he was stationed in France.
After serving in the military, Roger attended the State Technical Institute and earned a Certificate of Achievement in Product Drafting Technology. He studied mathematics, drafting, physics and hydraulics, which prepared him for an engineering career in the automotive and aerospace industries. He retired from Woodward in 2003, where he specialized in designing parts for Pratt and Whitney engines.
Roger will be remembered as unfailingly kind and gentle with an affectionate way of joking around, and he had many friends. He was a passionate U of M football fan. Taking pride in craftsmanship, Roger was a skilled handyman who could fix anything. He was active in the Masonic Order. He was an integral part of Grace Episcopal Church for decades through Vestry, the Building and Grounds Committee, Altar Guild, installing and caring for the Resurrection Garden, and assisting with office duties.
A funeral service will be at Grace Episcopal Church in Holland, Michigan on Friday, July 10, 2026 at 1 p.m. Visitation will be before the service, beginning at noon. Reception will follow the service.
In lieu of flowers, envelopes will be available for Shriners Hospitals and Marine Mammal Center or donations can be made to any charity of your choice.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Roger, please visit our floral store.
Janice Marie Donnelly Gier
August 17, 1950-July 3, 2026
Janice Marie Donnelly Gier, known and beloved by nearly everyone in Holland simply as “Gigi,” passed away peacefully at home on the morning of Friday, July 3, 2026, surrounded by her devoted husband of 53 years and children.
Born on August 17, 1950, to Doris and Charles Donnelly, Janice grew up with a warmth and generosity of spirit that would come to define her entire life. She was a proud graduate of Portage Central in Kalamazoo and went on to earn her degree with honors from Northwood University.
She is preceded in death by her sister, Sharon Bailey.
She is survived by her beloved husband, David Gier Jr.; her children, Katrina (Todd) Tulgestke, Kyle (Rachael) Gier, Kara (Mark) Stuit, Krista (Kevin) Chalifour, and Kory (Alicia) Gier; and 16 grandchildren who knew her simply as “Gigi” — a name that said everything about the role she played in their lives.
To know Janice was to feel immediately at home. Her door was always open — to children, to friends, to neighbors, and to every stray cat that wandered close enough to sense the warmth inside. She was a second mother to countless kids in the Holland community, a master host who had a rare gift for making any gathering feel like a celebration. Her love language was simple and unmistakable: thoughtful gifts and homemade sweets shared generously with everyone around her.
Janice radiated happiness wherever she went, her ever-present smile a welcome sight to all who knew her. She was a familiar and cherished face downtown Holland, often spotted strolling past the shops she adored — JB and Me and Frances Jaye among her favorites. For years she could also be found at the family business, Holland Bowl Mill, warmly greeting guests and delighting in giving tours with the enthusiasm of someone sharing their very favorite secret.
She was, in every sense, the heart of Holland — a devoted wife to David, mother to five, and Gigi to 16, woven into the fabric of this community through decades of kindness, laughter, and open arms.
Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. on Thursday, July 9, at Dykstra Funeral Home – Mulder Chapel, 188 32nd St., Holland, MI 49423.
Funeral services will be 10 a.m. on Friday, July 10, at Fellowship Reformed Church, 2165 W. Lakewood Blvd., Holland, MI 49424.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Janice, please visit our floral store.
Elsie Mae Greydanus
August 30, 1925-June 22, 2026
Elsie Mae Greydanus, at the age of 100, was welcomed into the presence of her faithful savior, Jesus Christ, on June 22, 2026.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Samuel E. Greydanus Jr., and her siblings, Leona Klooster, Harriet Seely, Murray DeWaard and John DeWaard.
She is survived by her eight children, Bonnie Greydanus, Samuel (Ethlyn) Greydanus, John (Marty) Greydanus, Mark Greydanus, Jim (Judy) Greydanus, Tim (Sarah) Greydanus, Dave (Melissa) Greydanus, Dale (Kelly) Greydanus; her sister, Mary Miller of Chicago; 17 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and extended family.
Born August 30, 1925, in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, she graduated from East High School, Rochester, New York, and Calvin College, Michigan. She taught at Plainfield, Calvin College, Hamilton, and Sarospatek, Hungary. She raised her eight children on the Meadowlark Farm in Saugatuck, Michigan, where everyone was welcome, and at any time family, friends and strangers could be found on the front porch enjoying company, food, stories, and the beauty of the countryside.
She was a long-time member of Gibson Christian Reformed Church, where she played the piano, taught Sunday School, and took her students down the road to see the cowslips in spring. Elsie loved her Lord, her family, friends, opera, poetry, and nature in all its glory. The best medicine for Elsie was always a long walk at the lake.
Memorial services will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Gibson Church, A-6486 140th Ave., Holland. MI 49423, with Pastor Jen Rozema officiating.
Burial will be in Gibson Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Bethany Christian Services at bethany.org or to Resonate Global Mission at resonateglobalmission.org.
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Lillian Marie Johnson
January 29, 1932-July 1, 2026
Lillian (“Lill”) Marie Johnson (nee’ Christiansen), age 94, of Spring Lake went home to be with her Lord and savior on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.
She passed away at home surrounded by her family and prayer. She was born January 29, 1932, in Muskegon, Michigan, to Henry and Catherine (Carlsen) Christiansen, immigrants from Denmark. She was raised on a 40-acre farm and attended school in the Hile School District. She would spend many beloved weekends with her fellow community of Danes affectionately called the “Ludington Gang” and enjoyed many summers at Maranatha. Lillian married her husband of 60 years, Charles R Johnson Sr. on June 7, 1952, in Grand Haven.
Together, they would raise six children. Lillian spent her life with the cherished job of raising her family. She lived a life rooted in faith, compassion, and service to others. Her trust in God guided every step and her gentle spirit brought comfort to many. She was a member of Grand Haven Gospel Chapel. Later, she would become a devoted member of Nortonville Gospel Chapel, where she sang in the choir, participated in Women’s Mission Circle, often hosted Bible study, and volunteered wherever there was a need in the church.
Lillian had the unique talent of playing the piano and organ by ear. She said it was a gift from the Lord and loved to play. She loved family gatherings and sharing her faith. Her heart’s desire was to see people put their faith in Christ. Her gift of storytelling about the many childhood memories on the farm with her brothers was treasured and will be missed.
Lillian is lovingly remembered and survived by her children, Charles (Cindy) Johnson Jr., Sally (Roy) Bennink, Dena (Tim) Hitsman, and Darla (Marc) Baird; nine grandchildren, Scott (Jaleen) Rodgers, Julie (Scott) Tardani, Kristyn (Justin) Haverkamp, Travis Bennink, Brenton (Zulariam) Bennink, Kaycee (Mariano) Galante-Hitsman, Anthony (Joanie) Hitsman, River Baird, and Rowan Baird; 14 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Johnson Sr., on September 24, 2012; two daughters, Cathy Sue Johnson on October 11, 1988, and Diane Marie Johnson-Wessel on January 10, 2025; her five brothers, Earl Christiansen, Clay Christiansen, Harry Christiansen, Vernon Christiansen, and Henry Christiansen; and her sister, Clara.
A memorial service for Lillian will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Nortonville Gospel Chapel in Spring Lake with Assistant Pastor Josh Puett and Pastor Joe O’Neill officiating, 14528 Leonard Road; a luncheon will follow. Visitation one hour prior to the service 10-11 a.m. Thursday at Nortonville Gospel Chapel.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Nortonville Gospel Chapel or Hospice of Holland. Interment will be in Spring Lake Cemetery at 1:30 p.m. 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 systemafh.com. "Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure." ~ Unknown
Hai Nam Le
November 3, 1950-June 23, 2026
Hai Nam Le, age 75, passed away Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at his home in Zeeland, Michigan.
Hai was retired from Gentex Corp. and was a member of St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church. Prior to his emigration from Vietnam, Hai served in the Vietnamese Navy.
In addition to his parents, Hanh Le and Hoi Kieu, he was preceded in death by his parents-in-law, Tung Hoang and Hien Nguyen; brother, Lam Le; and daughter, Thuy Thanh Le.
Hai is survived by his wife of 54 years, Thu Thi Hoang; three daughters, Thuy Dang, Thy Vu and Trang Le; son, Hoang Le; sons-in-law, Cong Dang, James Vu and Steven Skinner; daughter-in-law, Lamanh Le; and grandchildren, Christian Dang, Grace Dang, Ethan Dang, Luke Le, Landon Le, Wrenly Skinner and Lana Vu.
Hai spent his days in constant motion and driven by his Catholic faith. Before retirement, he managed to provide for his family with a single income and keep their lives and hearts feeling full even through any rough financial patches. He was very generous to the church and would always be found praying for others. Friends and family could easily describe him as cheerful and welcoming, one who was never shy and could instantly put a smile on one's face while providing encouraging words. If you were to ever visit him at his home, you would have most likely found him outside tending to his plants and garden. Hai will be deeply missed by those who knew him.
Visitation is scheduled for 10-11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 171 W. 13th St., Holland, MI 49423. A funeral mass with Fr. Luis Garcia officiating will follow at 11 a.m. Burial of his ashes will be done in Vietnam. Arrangements are by Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home and condolence messages may be left online at langelandsterenberg.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Holland, Michigan, would be greatly appreciated in honor of Hai.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Hai Nam Le, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Diana Kathlene Mohler
July 1, 1936-July 5, 2026
Diana K. (Cole) Mohler, age 90, of Holland, passed away on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at her home.
Diana was born to Curgie (Cole) Murphy on July 1, 1936, in Ezel, Kentucky. In 1942, she moved to Michigan with her grandmother Polly Cole. She graduated from Olivet High School in Olivet, Michigan, in 1955. In 1958, she married her beloved husband, Lester Mohler. For several years, Diana was employed at Citizens Insurance in Marshall, Michigan, which later became State Farm Insurance.
She will be missed by her Northpointe Assembly of God Church family in Holland, where she spent many hours, including her time spent as a Sunday School teacher and pianist. Diana enjoyed her flower garden and working in the soil or just being outside.
She was preceded in death by husband, Lester Mohler, and a great-grandson Logan Reed Mohler
She is survived by her daughter and son, Lisa (Rob) Tymkew of Portage, Michigan, and Scott (Kathy) Mohler of Holland, Michigan; her grandchildren, Ryan Maniwczak of Portage, Michigan, Zachary (Kayty) Maniwczak of Portage, Michigan, Noah Tymkew of Portage, Michigan, Stella Tymkew of Portage, Michigan, Andrew (Aurora) Tymkew of Kalamazoo, Michigan, Nicole Steiber of Vicksburg, Michigan, Joshua (Kirsten) Tymkew of Pentwater, Michigan, Branden (Lindsey) Tymkew of Vicksburg, Michigan, Eric Mohler of Holland, Michigan, and Jennifer Mohler; eight great-grandchildren and a niece and nephew.
A funeral service will be held at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Dykstra Funeral Homes – Northwood Chapel, 295 Douglas Ave. in Holland. Reverend Randy Brokaw will be officiating. Burial will be in Rice Creek Cemetery in Marshall, Michigan.
Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday, July 8, at Dykstra Funeral Homes – Northwood Chapel. Memorial contributions may be given to the Northpointe Assembly of God Church, 4200 152nd Ave., Holland, MI 49424.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Diana, please visit our floral store.
Dr. Brian Parkhurst
June 14, 2026
Dr. Brian (Scott) Parkhurst, age 59, passed away on Sunday, June 14, 2026.
Dr. Brian was born in Groton, Connecticut, at the Naval Submarine Medical Center to Dave and Carol Parkhurst. As the son of a Naval family, he spent his childhood living on military bases across the United States and Hawaii, experiences that instilled in him a lifelong sense of adventure, resilience and appreciation for the natural world.
He earned his bachelor's degree in Park and Recreational Administration from Southern Illinois University with plans to manage large recreational areas. However, after a devastating snowmobile accident left him searching for answers, chiropractic care dramatically changed his life. Following his first treatment, nearly 60% of his symptoms were relieved. Inspired by that experience, he sold his home, moved to Davenport, Iowa, and enrolled at Palmer College of Chiropractic.
During his first year at Palmer, Brian met fellow student Karla, the love of his life. Together they navigated the challenges of chiropractic school, building a partnership grounded in love, faith, and shared purpose. They married on the very day they graduated and later settled in Holland, where they opened Parkhurst Chiropractic in January 2000.
For more than 26 years, Drs. Brian and Karla built Parkhurst Chiropractic into a respected practice known for compassionate, patient-centered care. Their vision was simple: to create a place where every patient felt welcomed, cared for, and valued. Dr. Brian cared for everyone from children and families to student athletes and professional competitors, always believing that healing meant treating people with kindness, respect, and hope. The clinic's motto reflected the way he lived his life: "You will enter as strangers and leave as friends."
That same calling to serve extended beyond the clinic. Brian's passion for falconry began in 1995 while living in Iowa, eventually earning him Master Class Falconer status and numerous federal and state permits. In 2002, he co-founded the Outdoor Discovery Center's Bird of Prey Program, now the DeWitt Bird of Prey Program. In 2023, he fulfilled a lifelong vision by founding Falconshire Raptors of West Michigan, a nonprofit dedicated to Conservation, Education, Rescue, and Research. Whether mentoring aspiring falconers, teaching wildlife biology, training bird dogs, or caring for injured raptors, Brian freely shared his knowledge, patience, and enthusiasm, inspiring others to become thoughtful stewards of the natural world.
Dr. Brian also gave generously of his time through volunteer service on several community boards, most recently at Anchorage Marina. He found great joy on the water, whether boating with friends or simply appreciating the peace and beauty of the shoreline.
Above all, Brian treasured his family. He is survived by his beloved wife and partner of 26 years, Dr. Karla Parkhurst, along with a loving extended family, countless friends, devoted patients, colleagues, students, and members of the falconry and conservation communities whose lives he touched. His legacy of compassion, mentorship, generosity, and service will continue through all who had the privilege of knowing him.
An open house for family and friends will be 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland, Michigan 49464.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association in Dr. Brian's honor. Support LBDA With a Donation | Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA)
"Though his time with us was too short, Brian's spirit lives on in every life he touched, every patient he helped, every student he mentored, and every bird he released to the sky."
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Dr. Brian Parkhurst, please visit our Sympathy Store.
David Ronald Parsons
March 22, 1951-July 1, 2026
David Ronald Parsons, age 75, of Grand Haven, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, in West Olive.
He was born on March 22, 1951, in Grand Haven, Michigan, to the late Fay Parsons and Diana LaFave. David married Nancy Babcock on June 29, 1985, in Keeler, Michigan.
David was a graduate of Grand Haven High School, then continued his education at Grand Valley State University, where he obtained his bachelor's and master's degrees. He worked as a caseworker and supervisor for Child and Adult Protective Services for the State of Michigan until his retirement.
David was a lifelong resident of Grand Haven and a faithful member of the United Methodist Church of the Dunes, where he was active in the Methodist Men group. He was a former Boy Scout, and in high school, he was active in both the Key Club and A.V. Club.
In his college years, David looked forward to tailgating at the GVSU football games and was a member of the "Dizmal Dozen" and one of the Core 4 plus 1. He enjoyed playing golf, downhill skiing, and The Beatles. He was active in GVSU's radio and T.V. programming and was a DJ for WGHN and WQWQ radio for many years. He was an avid reader and narrated various audiobooks.
David was a quick-witted jokester who enjoyed putting together slideshows and spending time at the lake. He will be warmly remembered and missed by so many in his community.
David is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Nancy; his son, Erik Parsons, and his daughter, Emily (Kyle) Schepel; three brothers, Michael LaFave, Earl (Jeri) LaFave, and Arthur (Laura) LaFave; sister-in-law, Nina Jason; his uncle, Herbert (Marcella) Fase; as well as several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, James Parsons; and sister, Jeri Lynn Parsons.
The celebration of life service for David will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at United Methodist Church of the Dunes with Pastor Eldon Eldred officiating. Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. on Friday, July 17, 2026, at Klaassen Family Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service at the church.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or Grand Valley State University - Men's Football Fund.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of David Ronald Parsons, please visit our floral store.
Sandra Grace Prince
June 20, 1940-July 2, 2026
“Love you. See you later and forever! Love Mom”
Sandra Grace Prince went to be with her Lord and Savior on July 2, 2026. The “words” above were found written in her own handwriting (and highlighted) on a note left in her Bible. This, her latest Bible, was purchased in recent years before the diagnosis of dementia. It is filled with verses highlighted in various colors. She loved the Lord and desired to know him more.
As her daughter, this is what stands out most about my mom. It is also the most important influence she has had on my life. I am thankful she brought me to church when I was young and continued to point me to God’s word when faced with life’s challenges. Thanks to her, I enjoy southern gospel music, the music of Daniel O’Donnell, the preaching by Dr. David Jeremiah, and ice cream ... all her favorites.
Sandy was preceded in death by her husband of 37 years, Roger Prince, along with her brother Norman Hoeve.
She is survived by her daughter Cindy (Jon) Looman; stepdaughter, Roxanne (Jeff) DeNeff; grandson, Jonathan (Christina) Visser; great-grandchildren, Brooklyn, Lukus, Keenan, Kase; along with several Prince family in-laws.
The dementia road is not easy. Wisdom says don’t try to do it alone … so we didn’t. Thanks to the following team of people who brought joy on the journey: The staff at Royal Park Place, the Royal Atrium Inn and the Memory Care Unit of the Cortland Holland. Also, special thanks to the team at Faith Hospice and Anchor In-Home Care. We as a family are eternally grateful for your love, care and friendship. You were all placed in our lives for a reason and for a season.
A visitation will take place on Thursday, July 9, from noon-2 p.m. at Dykstra Funeral Home - Mulder Chapel, 188 W. 32nd St., Holland. A celebration of life will follow the visitation at 2 p.m. also at Mulder Chapel with Rev. Lynn Bruce officiating.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Faith Hospice, 8214 Pfeiffer Farms Drive SW, Byron Center, MI 49315.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Sandra, please visit our floral store.
Doris Vander Kooi
July 9, 1927-July 2, 2026
Doris Vander Kooi, age 98, passed away on July 2, 2026.
Born on July 9, 1927, in the Holland area, Doris was the daughter of Nicklaus Kolean and Anna Kolean, and she spent most of her life in the area she called home. From the beginning, there was a bright, lively spirit about Doris — an energy that showed itself in the way she served, the way she loved, and the steady presence she offered to those around her.
After high school, Doris attended nursing school and graduated with her nursing license. She went on to spend much of her nursing career caring for patients as an OB/GYN nurse, a role she held with deep commitment and lasting pride. Her work was not simply what she did — it was one of the clearest expressions of who she was: attentive, capable, and fully invested in the well-being of others.
Doris met her husband, Elias Vander Kooi, through a blind date. They dated for five years before getting engaged, and in 1950 the pair were married. Together they welcomed six children into the world. In 1956, with three children at home and another on the way, Doris and Elias moved into the house that would be their home for the next 70 years. After the tragic loss of their daughter Linda Devore, Doris and Elias took in her children and helped raise them the best they could, offering stability, care, and love when it was needed most. In November of 2003, Doris lost her husband of 53 years, a sorrow that lingered and was felt for a long time.
Faith was central to Doris’s life. Those who knew Doris knew that she loved her faith, and she was often found with books all around her — everything from the Bible to her current reading. She was deeply involved in Fellowship Reformed Church as one of the founding members. Doris and her family were the ones who originally picked the name for the church, and her devotion was woven into its earliest days: Doris handmade the first communion cloth used at the church, and Elias made the first pulpit. Her voice also became part of the church’s life, as she loved to sing and was part of the church choir for quite some time. At home, she often sang hymns around the house while doing housework—moments that could bring a hush over everything, settling the whole house with a quiet sense of peace.
Doris also found joy in the work of her hands. She loved to garden and grew a wide range of fruits and vegetables—though, as many remember with a knowing smile, the gardening only happened after she had the kids out there to weed it for her first. She was known for her canning skills, preserving the harvest in jars of strawberries, corn, half peaches and many more. That same steady skill showed in the gardening she put into knitting. She made knitted Afghans by hand for each of her children — gifts that carried warmth in every stitch.
Doris was preceded in death by her husband, Elias Vander Kooi; her children, Deb Berghorst, Steven Vander Kooi, and Linda Devore; her parents, Nicklaus Kolean and Anna Kolean.
Doris is survived by her children, Paul (Lugene) Vander Kooi, Jon (Linda) Vander Kooi, and Joan (Bill) Agre; her grandchildren, Chrys (Leon) Hedding, Rebecca Vander Kooi, Tobias Westenbroek, Anna (Fred) Arbogast, Tamara Devore, Osceola Devore, Deanna Vander Kooi, and Daniel Vander Kooi; and 10 great-grandchildren.
She was a vibrant woman of immense faith and love who will be deeply missed by those who knew her and those whose lives she touched.
Visitation will be 10-11 a.m. on July 9, 2026, followed by the funeral service from 11 a.m. to noon. Both the visitation and service will be held at Fellowship Reformed Church, 2165 W. Lakewood Blvd., Holland, MI 49424.
Interment will take place at Zeeland City Cemetery.
Daniel "Dan" Allen Zant
January 4, 1954-July 3, 2026
Daniel Allen Zant, age 72, of Grand Haven, passed away on July 03, 2026, at home.
Dan was born on January 4, 1954, in Grand Haven, Michigan, to the late Donald Sr. and Katherine (Smith) Zant. Dan married Debra Ann Elwell on May 14, 1976, in Grand Haven, and they cherished 37 years of marriage before her passing in 2013. He met Deborah Ann (Koski) Weavers a few years later, and they married on August 17, 2017, in Grand Haven.
Dan graduated from Grand Haven High School in 1972 before earning an associate degree from Muskegon Community College. He began his career at Joiner Engineering and later spent many years as a road engineer with the Ottawa County Road Commission, retiring in 2013. A lifelong car enthusiast, he took great pride in his beloved 1971 Camaro and enjoyed building model cars, adding to his massive model car collection, attending car shows, and sharing his passion for classic automobiles. Dan was also an avid sports card collector, always enjoying the memories and conversations his collection inspired. He never missed an opportunity to attend the activities of his grandchildren and greatly cherished time spent with family.
Dan is survived by his loving wife, Deborah; children, Danielle Zant and Dustin Zant (Amanda Spicer); stepchildren, Tamilyn (Ross) Boersen, Noelle Weavers (Greg Lobert), Nicholas VanderSys (Elizabeth Peterson), and Christopher Weavers; grandchildren, Robert Clark, Audrey Clark, Gage Boersen, Gretchen Boersen, and Grady Boersen (Daniel's best friend); sisters, Patti (Richard) Stroba and Linda Gallas; and brother, Don (Sharon) Zant.
Dan was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Debra Zant.
A celebration of life for Dan will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, July 10, 2026, at Klaassen Family Funeral Home with Pastor Tim Taylor officiating. Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Klaassen Family Funeral Home. Interment will be at Lake Forest Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Holland or the American Cancer Society.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Daniel "Dan" Allen Zant, please visit our floral store.
