Obituaries: June 18, 2026
Marian Lee Darrow
August 24, 1932-June 17, 2026
Marian Darrow, lovingly known as Marian, age 93, of Holland, Michigan, passed away on June 17, 2026.
She was born on August 24, 1932, in Muskegon Heights, Michigan, and throughout her long life, she remained a woman of deep Christian faith, quiet strength, and generous love. Marian’s life was marked by devotion to her Lord, her family, and the many people she served with grace and kindness.
Marian was the beloved wife of Robert Darrow and a devoted mother to John and Sara Darrow, David Darrow, and Paul and Laurie Darrow. She treasured her family deeply and found great joy in each generation that followed. She was a loving grandmother and great-grandmother to Steven and Maria Darrow, Harper and Piper Darrow, Jennifer Darrow, Matthew and Nicole Darrow, Teagen and Dylan Darrow, Andrew and Alessa Darrow, and William and Chloe Darrow. She was also a cherished great-grandmother, and her family was one of the greatest blessings of her life. Marian’s love for her family was steady, faithful, and enduring, and her presence brought comfort, encouragement, and warmth to all who knew her.
Marian was a graduate of Calvin University, an achievement that reflected her dedication to learning and to living a life shaped by Christian principles. She used her education in meaningful ways throughout her life, serving as a school teacher and later working at J.C. Penney. In every place she served, Marian was known for her kindness, diligence, and gracious spirit. She carried herself with humility and purpose, and she left a lasting impression on those who worked alongside her and those she taught.
Her faith in Jesus Christ was central to all she was and all she did. Marian served faithfully in evangelism at Christ Memorial Church for many years, sharing the hope of the gospel with sincerity and compassion. She also led women’s Bible studies for many years, encouraging others in their walk with the Lord and helping them grow in understanding of God’s Word. Marian was a faithful Christian woman whose life reflected prayer, service, and trust in God’s promises. She lived with the quiet confidence that comes from knowing the Lord, and she was a blessing to her church family and to all who were touched by her ministry.
Marian enjoyed the simple and beautiful gifts of life. She loved gardening and flowers, and she found joy in caring for them and appreciating their beauty. She was a member of the Holland Garden Club, where she shared in fellowship and a common love for the things that grow and bloom. She also loved to read, and she especially cherished holidays, particularly Christmas, when she could celebrate with her family. Travel was another source of enjoyment for her, and she appreciated the opportunity to see new places and make memories along the way. Her interests reflected her thoughtful spirit and her appreciation for both beauty and togetherness.
Those who knew Marian would describe her as loving, faith-filled, and generous. She gave of herself freely and sincerely, not for recognition, but because that was the nature of her heart. She was a woman of prayer, a woman of encouragement, and a woman whose life pointed others toward Christ. Her legacy is one of steadfast faith, devoted service, and tender love for her family and community.
Marian’s passing in Holland, Michigan, brings sorrow to those who loved her, yet her life stands as a testimony to God’s goodness and faithfulness. She lived a full and meaningful life, and she leaves behind a rich legacy of Christian witness, family devotion, and compassionate service. Her memory will be treasured by her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know her.
In the words of scripture, we are reminded that precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. Marian Darrow now rests in the presence of her savior, whom she served so faithfully throughout her life. Her earthly journey has ended, but her influence remains, and her example will continue to inspire those who follow after her.
A memorial service will take place on Monday, June 22, at 11 a.m. at Christ Memorial Church - Chapel, 595 Graafschap Road, Holland. A one-hour visitation will take place prior to the service starting at 10 a.m. Burial will take place at Graafschap Cemetery.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Marian, please visit our floral store.
Paul Martin Geerlings
April 11, 1944-June 15, 2026
Paul Martin Geerlings, 82, of Holland, Michigan, passed away on June 15, 2026.
Born on April 11, 1944, in Zeeland, Michigan, Paul was the 10th of 12 children and was raised on a farm, the site of which is now Geerlings Farm Park on 96th Street in Zeeland. He attended Zeeland Christian through ninth grade and graduated from Holland Christian High School in 1962.
Throughout his life, Paul was surrounded by large machinery, farm equipment, and automobiles, and from a young age, he was familiar with driving and repairs. In high school, he worked at his brother-in-law’s auto repair shop. After graduation, he continued driving a truck, working in auto and parts sales, and working as a mechanic.
This work continued when Paul joined the Navy as a Seabee in 1968 and served a tour at Camp Campbell in Vietnam, where, beginning at the rank of E-5, he balanced hands-on project execution with supervising construction, managing logistics, and mentoring junior personnel. He returned home in 1970, but remained in the Reserves until 1974.
After his return from the service, Paul married Jan Van Haitsma in 1971. Together, they had two children, Renae and Ross.
Through the ensuing years, Paul had a variety of careers, including owning and operating the service station in Bentheim, Michigan, then owning and operating Doc’s Sales, before moving on to drive a semi for Burke Energy and Zeeland Farm Services. From there, he was promoted to dispatcher and then Operations Manager at TLC.
The work he loved most, though, was his tenure as Ottawa County drain commissioner from 2000 to 2012. Paul took great pride in and felt deep camaraderie with his team, and his years there gave him great enjoyment.
Like many men of his age, Paul tended toward the stoic, and as such, we can know him best by the things in which he took great pride. He loved to share stories of his two children’s exploits and repeated them, perhaps annoyingly, to whoever would listen over the years. He and Jan also loved to travel and visited many places around the world. Paul was deeply patriotic and proudly marched in uniform in parades. He was last seen this past week in uniform, saluting the flag at the Elks Lodge Flag Day ceremony.
He was thrilled to let people know that he had been to all 50 states, and his love of the American West was evident in the hours he spent watching programs like "Lonesome Dove" and "Gunsmoke," as well as in the many western novels he read from the library; so many, in fact, that he had to start the list over and read some of them a second time.
His favorite places on earth were the hills of Colorado and Montana and the forests of Michigan, where he spent many weeks hunting and roaming the wild. Maybe his greatest joy, though, was driving. Paul started driving young and drove every chance he got, both for work as a truck driver and commercial driver and recreationally. “You want to go for a drive?” was a commonly heard phrase in his house. There were very few times anyone ever found Paul in the passenger seat.
After retiring from Ottawa County, he couldn’t stand to sit around, so he began 14 years of freelance driving for places like Janssen Farms Hatchery, De Nooyer Chevrolet, and Wyrick Auto.
Paul is survived by his wife, Jan (Van Haitsma) Geerlings; his children, Renae (Tyler Mane) Geerlings and Ross (Michelle) Geerlings; his grandchildren, Elle Geerlings, Shania (Kyle) Fults, and Lysander Karolat; and his siblings, Evelyn and Dave.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Martin and Reka Geerlings, and his siblings, Harvey, Robert, Ruth, Arloa, Rose, Marian, Bob, Ethel, and Carolyn.
Memorial visitation will be at Faith Reformed Church Zeeland, 220 W. Central Ave., Zeeland, Michigan 49464, on June 27, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon. A funeral service will follow from noon to 1 p.m., with lunch afterward.
Berneth Robert Grigsby
June 29, 1943-June 15, 2026
Berneth “Bernie” R. Grigsby, age 82, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the care and comfort of his family in the early hours of Monday, June 15, 2026.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Barbara “Barb” Grigsby, his daughter Camie Kay Grigsby, and his parents, Hattie and Berneth Grigsby.
Bernie is lovingly remembered by his son and daughter-in-law, Ward and Kari Grigsby, and his granddaughters, Felicia (Travis) Sale, Hanna (Alan) Zeiler, Emma Veenman, and his orange kitty, Mac.
Bernie worked for BASF//Flint Ink for 42 years and was an honorary life member of the Holland Elks Club. Bernie had a passion for being in nature, where he enjoyed trout fishing and gardening. He spent many summers at his cabin in northern Michigan, casting his line and enjoying the solitude. He found great joy in tending his garden, which was famous for its tomato harvest. Bernie was an expert bowler who played in many leagues over the years, and he passed down his love of the game to his son, Ward. He was a huge fan of the MLB and enjoyed many Sunday family dinners with a game on and a beer in hand. Go, Red Sox!
Bernie will be remembered fondly by those close to him for his witty sense of humor, sarcastic quips, and playful comebacks, along with his unwavering strength. Above all, Bernie loved and cherished his family, who were his greatest source of pride and joy.
A celebration of life will be held by the family at a later date. Bernie will be laid to rest next to his wife, Barb, at Pilgrim Home Cemetery in Holland, Michigan. Memorial contributions in memory of Bernie can be made to Harbor Humane Society.
Arrangements are by Dykstra Funeral Homes – Northwood Chapel.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Berneth, please visit our floral store.
Nina Gayle Ritter
April 12, 1935-June 15, 2026
Nina Gayle Ritter, age 91, passed away early Monday morning, June 15, 2026.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Perry and Gladys Stanley, as well as her husband of 62 years, Leonard Ritter.
She will be lovingly missed by her daughters, Leslie Ritter of Kentwood, Michigan and Pennie Drew of Demorest, Georgia; grandchildren, Isaac (Becky) Drew, Amanda (Eder) Diaz, Allison (Josh) Hebert, Arthur Drew; and 14 great-grandchildren. She will also be lovingly remembered by her last surviving sister, Bonita Ragas.
Nina grew up in the hills of Kentucky as a proud coal miner's daughter in a large family of nine. As a young woman, she bravely went to live with her aunt in Norfolk, Virginia, where she joined the USO and hoped to meet her future husband, which she did. He was in the US Navy, so they ended up stationed on the island of Bermuda for the first four years of marriage. Once back in the States, they settled in Wyoming, Michigan, and stayed there for the rest of their lives.
Taking care of family was extremely important to Nina, and she was a wonderful wife, mother, homemaker, and stay-at-home mom — diligently taking care of her family and home. She was an avid seamstress, cook, and birdwatcher. She loved listening to Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Loretta Lynn. She always took time to pass on skills to her kids and grandkids, like sewing and cooking. Camping and traveling around Michigan were well-loved by her and her husband after retirement. She will be missed.
A private family service will be held. The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.
Linda Sal
May 14, 1946-June 9, 2026
Linda Sal, 80, of Zeeland, passed away on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.
Linda was born May 14, 1946, in Holland, Michigan, to James and Jeanette (Alferink) Walters. Linda graduated from West Ottawa High School in 1964 and attended some college classes at Western Michigan University.
Linda met Stan Sal and they married in 1966. Linda and Stan owned and operated Tulip City Vending for 16 years before retiring. Linda and Stan were also members of Trinity Reformed Church.
Stan preceded Linda in death in 2021. She was also preceded in death by her sisters, Mary and Janice, and her brothers-in-law, Al Sal, Ron Sal, and Jack Pagel.
She is survived by her children, Brian and Sandra Sal and Karen and Jeff Walcott; grandchildren, Nicholas Sal, Kaitlynn Sal, and Troy Walcott; brother, Ron and Cindy Walters; in-laws, Earl Olgers, Nancy Sal, Jan and Jerad Syswerda, Larry and Sue Sal, and many extended family members.
A visitation will be 2-4 p.m. Sunday, June 21, 2026, at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland MI 49464. Interment will be in Bentheim Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Reformed Church or Harbor Humane.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Linda Sal, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Linda Susan Stray
June 22, 1956-June 15, 2026
Linda Susan Stray, age 69, went to be with her Lord on Monday, June 15, 2026.
Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Tom and Peggy Fish.
She will be remembered by her husband, Rod Stray; children, Elizabeth (Mark) Beckwith and Jim Stray; grandchildren, Brandon and Caroline Beckwith; siblings, Tom (Linda) Fish, Cheryl (Bruce) Sharp, Sandra (Tony) Grandy, Cindy (Bob) Fish; nieces, nephews, and friends.
Linda dedicated her life to her family and her faith. After attending school to become a dental hygienist and working in that field for a number of years, she decided to stay at home to care for her children. She joined parent associations, volunteered at school functions, and supported her children’s sports and hobbies. As they grew up and left the house, Linda turned her focus to volunteering at her home parish, St. Pius X. A dedicated parishioner, she helped wherever it was needed, including Bible studies, book club, the Community Commission, and counting the Sunday offertory.
Linda loved gardening, crafting, and spending time with family. She had an encyclopedic knowledge of plants and enjoyed watching her garden bloom each year. She was always trying new craft projects, usually with the goal of giving her family a special, homemade gift like a journal or a rosary. Most of all, Linda loved her family and every moment she was able to spend with them. Whether it was watching movies and discussing books with her children, babysitting her grandchildren and attending their various performances, or laughing with her sisters at their regular “Girls’ Night Out” gatherings, Linda always knew what a gift this time was and looked forward to every opportunity. In all of her interests, hobbies, and activities, Linda found ways to show her love to her family.
A funeral mass for Linda will commence at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 2, 2026, with visitation one hour prior, at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 3937 Wilson Ave. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. In honor of Linda and in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Catholic Charities West Michigan or to the Lustgarten Foundation in furtherance of pancreatic cancer research. Interment will be at Resurrection Cemetery. The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.
Lynn Suzann Town
May 10, 1963-June 14, 2026
Lynn S. Town, age 63, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, June 14, 2026, in Spring Lake, Michigan.
She was born to Elmer and Mary (Harrand) Sieffert on May 10, 1963, in Muskegon, Michigan.
Lynn was known around the Spring Lake and Fruitport Orchard Market stores, as she worked there for decades. She enjoyed trips to the casinos, collecting Grinch memorabilia, and most of all spending time with her grandchildren. She was such a kind person with a heart of gold.
Lynn always had a way of making people smile and laugh, and her silly jokes could turn your day around. She adored her family and will be deeply missed.
She is survived by her daughters, Tiffany (Tegan) Jenkins, Tricia (Brian) Rhude; grandchildren, Anderson, Harrison, Lawson, Everson, Kelson; sisters, Cheryl (Roland) Falkowski, Cindy (Tom) Neely; niece, Amanda (Ross) Allen.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer Sieffert and Mary Lind, and brother, Raymond Sieffert.
Arrangements through The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 49456. Please consider signing the family’s online guestbook and sharing memories at sytsemafh.com.
Robert Donald Vincent
March 30, 1935-June 16, 2026
Robert Vincent, age 91 of Jenison, Michigan, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2026.
Known for his strong convictions, quick wit, and playfully ornery nature, Bob brought laughter and joy to family and friends. He enjoyed playing euchre and rarely missed the chance for a good card game and friendly competition. He was an active participant of Grandville Bible Church, where his faith was an important part of his life. A Marine Corps veteran, Bob faithfully served as an Awana volunteer for six years, investing in the lives of young people through his church community.
Above all, Bob’s greatest joy was his family, especially his beloved wife, Muriel. Married for 54 years, they shared a loving and devoted partnership, and she remained the center of his world throughout every season of life.
In addition to being survived by his loving wife, Muriel, Bob is survived by his children, Roger (Sherry) Vincent of Volga, West Virginia, and Suzin (Paul) McGuire of Lakeport, California; and stepchildren, Kenneth (Mariel) LaFleur of Ypsilanti, Michigan, Dennis (Kristi) LaFleur of Green Bay, Wisconsin, Robert (Deborah) LaFleur of Cheboygan, Michigan, Douglas (Jaime) LaFleur of Plainfield, Michigan, David (Lynda) LaFleur of Plainwell, Michigan, and Michelle (Douglas Henry) LaFleur of Ada, Michigan. He is also survived by 26 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.
Bob leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, family, and humor. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
A funeral service celebrating Bob’s life will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Grandville Bible Church, 4122 44th St. SW, Grandville, Michigan, with visitation from 10-11 a.m. A luncheon will follow the service, and all are welcome to attend.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Guiding Light Mission in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their online guestbook.
Phetmaniphone Xayarath
May 5, 1959-June 15, 2026
Phetmaniphone Xayarath passed on June 15, 2026, at the age of 67.
He was born on May 5, 1959.
No services are scheduled at this time.
