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

Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services

Elizabeth Ann Samdal
November 4, 1934-June 9, 2025

Elizabeth Ann “Tootie” Samdal, age 90, of Nunica, passed away Monday, June 9, 2025, at home.

She was born November 4, 1934, in Ohio, to Sam Black and Dorothy Ann (Mount) Pendleton. She married Stanley C. Samdal Sr., and he preceded her in death on September 28, 2019.

Elizabeth worked for many years at Heyboer Transformers in Grand Haven as a wire assembler. She was known for her gardening skills of both flowers and vegetables and enjoyed canning vegetables.

Elizabeth is lovingly remembered by three daughters: Pam Samdal, Christine Flores and Karmel (Martin) Gonzalez; her son, Stanley (Sue) Samdal Jr.; numerous grandchildren; several great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; her sister, Joyce “Jo” (Jim) Young; daughter-in-law, Theresa Samdal; sister-in-law, Dot Pendleton; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her son, Bruce Samdal, and grandson, Briar Duarte; five sisters and four brothers.

A private celebration of life open house will be held at Elizabeth’s home.  Arrangements entrusted to The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 49456. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at sytsemafh.com.

Christine "Chris" Oosting
September 8, 1949-June 6, 2025

Christine “Chris” Oosting, age 75, of Spring Lake, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on Friday, June 6, 2025.

She was born in Dearborn to Eugene and Barbara (Howitt) Acey and worked as a teacher for over 32 years, 21 years at Spring Lake Public Schools.

Chris had served as the secretary at Gracious Grounds for many years and also volunteered at the schools after retirement. Chris was known for her gentle heart and open arms — having a true gift of making everyone feel welcomed, loved and cared for. Chris found joy in cooking for anyone who walked in the door, as well as in traveling, sewing, and reading but most of all in her family, especially her grandchildren.

She is survived by her three daughters: Jennifer (Bryan) Boodt, Cori (Jeremy) Wale and Lexie (Karl Sineath) Oosting; eight grandchildren: Bella, and Brody Boodt, Kemry, Payton, and Quinn Wale, Malcolm, Leah, and Jordan Oosting-Sineath. Additionally, she is survived by her former husband, devoted caregiver and companion, Tony Oosting.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Barbara and Euguene Acey, as well as her brothers, Chip and Bob Acey. 

A celebration of her beautiful life will be 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at Tanglefoot Park, 312 W. Exchange St., Spring Lake, MI 49456. Memorial contributions may be given to the University of Michigan Brain Bank Discovery Fund-322807. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services.

Ruth Anne Bonnau
July 18, 1940-June 10, 2025

Ruth Anne’s father once told her that she was born with roller skates on. She was definitely “on the move” most of her life.

She was the firstborn and matriarch of her siblings, Doug Snyder, Robert “Bob” Snyder (who has passed) Mary Lou Newman, Gary Snyder and Angela Snyder. All of them have many stories of shenanigans she was involved in and some of which she swore she had no part in.

As a teenager looking ahead to her future, she wanted to be a missionary and teach English to young children in Africa. That didn’t come to fruition, but she did get her teaching certificate and once her two daughters, Mona and April, were young girls, she went back to college part-time and received her master's degree in elementary education.

Teaching was her greatest passion. She taught Sunday School, a night class in Niles, Michigan, and taught elementary classes ranging from second grade to fifth grade for 35 years, all at Camden Frontier School. Many of her students still remember her and share how she impacted their lives.

Doll clothes sewing was her second passion and that turned into a retirement “gig” for her. She would attend craft shows to sell her art of sewing as far north as Drummond Island, Michigan, and as far southwest as Mission, Texas.

Mission, Texas, was where she and her husband of 37 years, Steve Bonnau would travel for many years to escape the cold and grey days of Michigan. There in Texas, she and Steve would add to their ever-growing list of birds that they were on the lookout for. She took up teaching a genealogy class at the local clubhouse. She had a very loyal following from one year to the next. She loved the water exercises in the pool and was very disappointed when the weather was too cold for a class.

Her love of learning led her to receiving a genealogy certification from BCG (Board for Cetification of Geneaologists) in Salt Lake City. She helped not only her immediate family, but also others find lost or forgotten people.

Ruth left behind a slew of friends and family members, too numerous to mention, who will remember her for a very long time. Let it be said Ruth Anne lived “a life well lived.”  

Memorials to any of the following organizations would be greatly appreciated. Camden Public Library and/or Camden Methodist Church in Camden, Michigan, or Harbor Hospice in Grand Haven, Michigan. (Or any hospice care facility.)
“A Life Well Lived” celebration will take place in the near future. It will be posted on social media sites when all details have been set.

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.

Raymond J. Valentovich
December 20, 1935-June 8, 2025

Raymond J. Valentovich, age 89, of Grand Haven, passed away Sunday, June 8, 2025, at home.

For 67 years, the most wonderful, blessed and beloved husband of Shirley Valentovich of Robinson Township. The most amazing and cherished father of his 5 children and their spouses, Jim (Debbie) Valentovich, Liz (the late John) Shepard, Corinne Chengary, Denise (Dan) Knezevic, and John Valentovich. Beloved grandfather of 10 and great-grandpa (Papa) to 11. Beloved son of the late Gregory and Sophie Valentovich of Chicago, brother to the late Bernie Valentovich and the late Eleanor (Marty) Gyura.
 
Former parishioner of St. Anthony of Padua (Robinson Twp) and St Luke’s in Allendale, and current parishioner of St. Patrick-St. Anthony Parish in Grand Haven. Ray was well loved by all the friends he made at these parishes and will be greatly missed. He was a member of the Grand Haven Eagles Aerie #925.
 
Born and raised on the East Side neighborhood of Chicago’s far south side, Ray retired in 1993 after working 39 years at General Mills in Chicago. While he taught his children the love of sports, he also taught many young boys as a coach for the local Little League baseball team, the Cardinals. Ray was an avid gardener, planting immeasurable and varied numbers of flowers and trees. His home was his little slice of heaven here on earth and he loved just being home amongst his plantings, woods and fields, walking his trail through his property.
 
His entire life, Ray was an avid fisherman, taking countless trips to Canada and Minnesota, both with friends or his beloved “bride.” Ray had a great love of the outdoors, appreciating all that nature had to offer, a trait he passed on to his children. He explored many National Parks from the east to the west coast and was even a Florida snowbird for 10 years.
 
Ray was loved by all who met him. A gentle, kind and humble man, he will be greatly missed by his family and friends and all who had the great pleasure of meeting him.
 
Best Husband EVER. Best Dad EVER.
 
A mass of Christian burial will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 14, 2025, at St. Patrick Church of St. Patrick-St. Anthony Parish in Grand Haven with Rev. Dan Schumaker as celebrant. Friends may meet the family from 4-7 p.m. on Friday, June 13, at The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Interment will be in Robinson Township Cemetery. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at sytsemafh.com.

Michael McWilliams
January 27, 1962-June 7, 2025

Michael McWilliams, age 63, passed away in Muskegon, Michigan, on Saturday, June 7, 2025.

He was born in Summit, N.J., on January 27, 1962, to Joseph and Teresa (McGinley) McWilliams. He graduated from Byron High School and spent most of his career working as a carpenter. Michael loved spending time outdoors, especially hunting and fishing, or traveling with family to northern Michigan. He enjoyed watching NASCAR and Detroit Lions Football, and loved listening to music, especially Neil Young, Bob Seger, and country music. He had a passion for cars, especially taking them apart and putting them back together. He was a kind-hearted, generous man who was always willing to help others in any way he could, and he loved spending time with his family.

Michael will be lovingly remembered by his mother, Teresa Stites; five siblings: Patricia (Joseph) Turpin, Joseph (Barbara) McWilliams, Robert (Nanette) McWilliams, Timothy (Neil Hoa) McWilliams, and Kenneth (Margarita) McWilliams; significant other, Lisa Loveless; and many nieces, nephews, and other extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph McWilliams.

Per Michael’s wishes, no public services are being held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Shiawassee Humane Society, Owosso, MI; 989-723-4262. Arrangements by The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI, 49456. Please sign the family’s online guestbook and share memories with the family at sytsemafh.com.

Earl Richard Chittenden
October 26, 1929-May 29, 2025

Earl Richard Chittenden, age 95, of Spring Lake, passed away Thursday, May 29, 2025, at his home.

He was born October 26, 1929, in Grand Haven, Michigan, to Dewey and Hazel (Fisher) Chittenden. Earl married Kathryn Rose Baird on September 17, 1951, in Rapid City, South Dakota. Kathryn preceded him in death on January 25, 2015.

Earl served his country in the U.S. Air Force. He was a member of Nortonville Gospel Chapel. He worked as an electrician, electrical contractor and was employed by Boelens Electric for 35 years. Earl enjoyed hunting, fishing, and ice fishing. He was an avid beekeeper, raising his own bees and collecting honey, and was known for his garden, where he raised tomatoes and blackberries.

He is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Patricia (Robert) Kolkema; his son, Christopher (Paula) Chittenden; three grandchildren: Jenny (Aaron) Savage, Craig Chittenden, and Joseph (Kathy) Chittenden; five great-grandchildren; and his sister-in-law, Sally Chittenden.

He was preceded in death by his son, Michael Chittenden; brother, David Chittenden; and sister, Virginia McCain.

A private graveside service will be held at Spring Lake Cemetery, with military honors accorded by the Charles A. Conklin American Legion Post #28 Honor Guard. Memorials to Nortonville Gospel Chapel are appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at sytsemafh.com. Arrangements entrusted to The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 49456.

Jack R. Paul
November 28, 1933-May 29, 2025

Jack R. Paul, a devoted public servant, skilled aviator, and master craftsman, passed away at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, ingenuity, and love for the outdoors.     

After graduating from high school, Jack proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Following his military service, he returned home and joined the Michigan State Police, where he served with honor and integrity. However, Jack’s lifelong passion for aviation — he famously owned an airplane before he ever owned a car — eventually led him to leave law enforcement and pursue a full-time career in the skies. Jack flew corporate aircraft for many years, combining professionalism with an enduring love for flight. Later, he transitioned to a second career as an Air Traffic Controller, where his demeanor and attention to detail served him well until his retirement.     

A true outdoorsman, Jack spent much of his free time hunting, fishing, and exploring the natural world he so deeply cherished. He was also a remarkably skilled craftsman, building two houses and two barns with his own hands. His talents extended to every detail — he completed the plumbing and electrical work himself and even hand-crafted the kitchen cabinets and drawers, a testament to his patience, precision, and pride in his work.     

Jack is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia; daughters, Marianne (Paul) Jordan and Bryant Jordan of Waldo, Florida, and Sandra (Paul) Sutherland of New Smyrna Beach, Florida; sons, Robert Paul of Winter Haven, Florida, and David Paul of New Smyrna Beach, Florida; and stepdaughter, Jillyn Smith-Lee and her husband, Richard Lee, of Grand Ledge, Michigan, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.     

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

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.

George Robert Adams
December 24, 1949-June 5, 2025

George Robert Adams, age 75, of Spring Lake, passed away unexpectedly at home on Thursday, June 5, 2025.

He was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Louis and Barbara (Sherwood) Adams. He married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn Cerka, on July 3, 1970.

George graduated from Orchard View High School in 1968 and then proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1968-1972. He went to Muskegon Community College, where he attained an associate’s degree. George was a lifetime member of VFW Post #7729 in Muskegon, American Legion Post #123 in Kent City, and the Fraternal Order of Eagles life member Sparta, Michigan. He was a very private person, and enjoyed Bluegill fishing, taking rides, and looking for wildlife.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Marilyn Adams; his sister, Ruth Meyers; his brother, Larry Adams; and his cat, Missy.

He was preceded in death by two sisters, Bonnie Weir and Barbara Johnson; and his brother, Louis Adams.

A private graveside service will be held. Arrangements entrusted to The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 49456. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at sytsemafh.com.

Jean Polinsky
May 20, 1937-May 30, 2025

Jean Polinsky, age 88, of Grand Haven, passed away Friday, May 30, 2025, at her home.

She was born May 20, 1937, in Ferrysburg, Michigan, to Riley C. and Lois Marian (Hubbell) Avery. Jean was a lifelong resident of Grand Haven. She ran a daycare from her home for many years. All the children that came to “Jean's” were very special to her; she completed this chapter with providing daycare for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She went on to become the manager at the Charles A. Conklin American Legion Post #28 in Grand Haven until her retirement. Jean was also active in the American Legion Post #28 Auxiliary and the VFW Sgt. Alvin Jonker Post #2326 Auxiliary. She enjoyed spending time with her family, doing puzzles, reading and gardening.

She is lovingly remembered by her two daughters, Debra (Steve) Kanaar and Patti (Steve) Pitcher; seven grandchildren: Nicholas (Rita) Kanaar, Alexandra (Bryan) Berkstresser, Derek (Lauren) Johnson, Carly (Gary Flowers) Wing, Anika (Stephen) Pitcher - Legg, Tara Pitcher, and Megan (DeAllen) Young; 15 great-grandchildren; her sister, Joan Gardner; her brother, Robert (Bev) Avery; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her sister, Connie Weigel, and two brothers, Pete Avery and Paul Avery.

A memorial open house will be 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at The Charles A. Conklin American Legion Post #28 in Grand Haven. Memorials to Heartland Hospice are appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Share memories with the family at their online guest book at sytsemafh.com.

Dorothy "Sandy" Zock
October 31, 1943-May 29, 2025

Beloved Wife, Mother, Grandmother, and Friend.

Dorothy “Sandy” Zock, a vivacious spirit and beloved matriarch, passed away surrounded by the love of her family. She was the cherished wife of Larry Zock, devoted mother to Corey (Jennifer) Zock, Timmer (Christine) Zock, and Molly Marshall, and the adoring grandmother to Matthew, Nathan, Anna, and Lilly.

Sandy lived her life with extraordinary warmth, joy, and a generous heart. Known for her infectious energy and quick wit, she was always the life of the party. She often said she wanted to be remembered as “fun,” and anyone who knew her can attest that she was exactly that and so much more.

A passionate animal lover, Sandy rescued dozens of animals throughout her life, providing comfort and care to those in need. Her home was always open and inviting — filled with laughter, music, and the joyful chaos of family and friends.

She found great joy in buying and redecorating houses, turning every space she touched into something beautiful and full of character. But more than anything, Sandy loved being surrounded by her family and lifelong friends in Spring Lake, MI, where her presence brightened every room and her loyalty ran deep.

Sandy’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and a deep, enduring bond with those lucky enough to have known her. Her vibrant spirit and compassionate soul will be forever missed but never forgotten.

As The Rolling Stones’ most devoted fan, Sandy never missed a chance to quote her favorite lyric — “You can’t always get what you want, but if you try sometimes, you just might find, you get what you need.”

Sandy gave so many exactly what they needed — love, laughter, and a reminder to enjoy life to the fullest.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a Hinsdale Humane Society or Noah Project (Muskegon) in her honor.

A celebration of life will be held at the Spring Lake Country Club on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at 5 p.m. 

Please sign the family's online guestbook at sytsemafh.com.

Patricia May Poplaski
July 1, 1930-May 25, 2025

Patricia May Poplaski passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 25, 2025, at the age of 94.

In lieu of flowers or other bereavement gifts, Patricia requests donations be made to one of the charities listed below or to a charity of your choice.

• St. Joseph Indian School, Chamberlin, South Dakota
• St. Label Indian School, Ashland, Montana
• Paralyzed Veterans of America
• St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Spring Lake, Michigan
• EWTN – Eternal Word Television Network