Obituaries: June 30, 2026
Sandra "Sandy" Bierman
January 3, 1956-June 25, 2026
Mrs. Sandra “Sandy” Bierman, age 70, of Grand Haven, was reunited with her daughter in heaven on Thursday, June 25, 2026, after a short illness.
She was born January 3, 1956, in Grand Haven to Gerald and LaVonda (Anderson) Bos. On October 5, 1974, she married the love of her life, Donald Bierman.
Sandy was the caring and friendly voice on the other end of the phone line at Walt Bierman Plumbing, a job that made it possible for Don and Samantha to provide service to our Grand Haven area and beyond for many years. She enjoyed card-making with her daughter Samantha, watching wildlife out her dining room window and loving on her German Shepherds. Her favorite thing to do, by far though, was spend time with her husband and daughter. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
She is survived by her husband, Donald; daughter, Samantha; brothers, Robert (Michelle) Bos, and Jeff (Shelly) Bos; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her loving daughter, Nicole Amy Bierman, in 1989; parents, Gerald and LaVonda Bos, and a very special aunt, Patricia Higgins.
A graveside service for family and friends will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 1, 2026. Sandy will be laid to rest beside her daughter, Nikki, in Grand Haven Township at Historic Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in memory of Sandy may be given in lieu of flowers to the Salvation Army Angel Tree, Love in Action Food Pantry or Harbor Hospice Foundation. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at sytsemafh.com.
Juliana DeYoung
July 21, 1927-June 27, 2026
Juliana DeYoung, age 98, of Hudsonville, found the heavenly gates open and passed through them peacefully on June 27, 2026.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Adrian, in 1984; her grandson, Derrick Hoffman, and all eight of her siblings and their spouses.
Juliana was born on a farm in Harrison, South Dakota, on July 21, 1927, to John and Winnie Hannink. The family survived much hardship throughout the Depression years with the loss of their father and their farm. Juliana's older siblings began migrating to the Grand Rapids area to find work, and at the age of 17, she also made the trip to Michigan. Eventually she met Adrian DeYoung, and they married in June 1952. They settled in Hudsonville. The family survived a tornado in April 1956, which destroyed their home.
Juliana was a hard worker, family-oriented, and a woman of faith. She worked a variety of jobs to help support her family. She would never complain and also had a sense of humor. Juliana was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother and especially marveled at all of the babies that were added to her family. Throughout all of the challenges she has faced, her faith in the Lord never wavered. She had a simple and solid faith that God was caring for and blessing her. Even as her light was fading, she would witness to God's love and faithfulness in her life. She loved singing old hymns.
She is survived by her children, Connie Medema and fiance George Bauer, and her children, Laura and Josh Scholma, Camille Medema and Juan Leiva, Luke and Hannah Medema; Norm and Cherie and their children Ben, Brad and Sarah, Brandon and Rene, Barry and Alisha; Judy and Joel Potts and their children, Amy and Stuart Eickelberg, Brent and Julie, Sarah and Joe Edgin. Dawn and Dan Hoffman and their children, Rachel and Brandon Melvin, Lindsey and Hawkins Lewis; and 25 great-grandchildren.
A memorial service for Juliana will be at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 18, at VanderLaan Funeral Home with a prior visitation 10-11 a.m. A private graveside service will take place at Floral View Memorial Gardens
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Juliana, please visit our floral store.
Blanca America Huazo
July 22, 1963-June 24, 2026
During the changing times of the early 1960s, Blanca America Huazo was born on July 22, 1963, in North Dakota, the daughter of Ruben Portillo Sr. and Celia Portillo.
After the passing of her father, her mother later remarried Guillermo Mendoza. She grew up learning the value of hard work, family, and perseverance.
Blanca worked throughout her life in many roles. In her younger years, she was a migrant farm worker, and later worked as a waitress and sales representative. She also served as a supervisor at a floral production plant, where flower arrangements and bouquets were prepared, and took pride in her leadership and work ethic. In addition, she worked as a teacher in migrant camps, helping others learn English. She later became well known as an AVON representative, where she enjoyed meeting and connecting with others.
Blanca was a creative and hardworking woman who loved crocheting, sewing, and baking. She often shared the things she made with her family and took pride in caring for those she loved. She was also strong-willed and outspoken — a “firecracker” who spoke her mind and made sure you always knew where she stood.
More than anything, Blanca treasured her family. Her greatest joy was her children and grandchildren, and she loved spending time with them whenever she could.
Some mothers leave behind recipes or traditions. Blanca left behind blankets, crochet pieces, and recipes made with love, each one carrying a piece of her. She spent her days caring for others, her evenings cheering on the Cowboys, her quiet moments crocheting with her hands always busy, and her life simply being our mother. Every stitch she made is something her family will keep. Every memory is a reminder of her. She will be deeply missed, and her love will remain with her family always.
Blanca America Huazo, age 62, passed away on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. She was preceded in death by her father, Ruben Portillo Sr.; and brothers Ruben Portillo Jr. and Ricardo Portillo.
She is lovingly remembered by her children, Christy Galassi (TJ), Veronica Santos-Fuentes (Obed), Edward Huazo, and Ian Irving; mother, Celia Portillo (Guillermo); cherished grandchildren, Gage, Dominic, Alessandra, Daniel, and Lucas; sisters, Diana, Elizabeth, Flor, and Sandra; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.
A celebration of Blanca’s life will be 1-3 p.m. Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Valley Pines Senior Living, 6117 Charlevoix Woods Ct. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.
Betty Ann Kroeze
June 17, 1938-June 27, 2026
Betty Ann Kroeze, age 88, of Holland, Michigan, opened the door and followed the light into the loving arms of her Lord and savior on Saturday, June 27, 2026.
Betty was a strong and devoted woman of faith and was a member of Bentheim Reformed Church.
Betty was born on June 17, 1938, to Arthur and Anna Lemmen and was raised in the East Saugatuck area. She retired from Magna/Donnelly in Holland. She loved traveling by road and air. When at home, she enjoyed watching the birds out her window, game shows, and the Tigers on TV. She especially enjoyed spending as much time as possible with family and friends, visiting, playing cards or going for ice cream, as they were her everything.
She was preceded in death by husbands, Gene Lynema and Jasper (Jack) Kroeze Sr.; eight siblings; a son, Ron Lynema; and a stepson, Curt Kroeze.
She is survived by her children, Linda and Jeff DeBoer, Allen and Sharon Lynema, Todd and Pamela Lynema, daughter-in-law, Terri Lynema; 15 grandchildren; 42 great-grandchildren, four great-great-grandchildren; her precious sister, Arlene Herweyer; brothers-in-law, Richard Kalmbaugh, David Barnett; in-laws, Mary Verburg, Melvin and Sandy Lynema, JoAnn Kiger, Karen Overweg Lynema; step-children, Cal and Jill Kroeze, Larry and Jackie Kroeze, Jack Kroeze Jr., Nancy and Phil Dannenberg, Kevin and Debbie Kroeze, Lynda and Mike Drost, Sally and Craig Hoeze, Janet Kroeze, Dan Kroeze; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Visitation with the family is 5-7 p.m. on Monday, July 6, 2026, at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland, MI 49464 or from 10-10:45 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Bentheim Reformed Church just prior to the funeral service.
Funeral services are 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Bentheim Reformed Church, 3997 38th Ave. Hamilton, MI 49419, with Pastor Kris Popovitch officiating.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Betty Ann Kroeze, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Alvin "Al" Masselink
July 22, 1942-June 27, 2026
Al Masselink, born July 22, 1942, in Blendon Township, and of Holland, Michigan, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on June 27, 2026, following a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.
Even through his struggles, Al never complained and always put others first, especially his family. He was a man of unwavering faith, gentle and caring, a great listener, and someone who quietly served those around him with love and compassion.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 59 years, Barbara Masselink; his children, Dave and DuAnne Masselink (their children, Samantha, Brett, and Jersey; great-grandchildren, Tia and Jaymison), Dwayne and Deborah Masselink (their children, Austin, Peyton, and Sawyer), Darin and Kellie Masselink, and Denice and Scott Burgess (their children, Alexa, Carson, Davis and Lucy). He is also survived by his siblings, Judy and Gary Boetsma, and Harley and Carol Masselink.
Al was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Dorothy Masselink, and his in-laws, Henry and Jennie Fleser.
A memorial service will be at 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Christ Memorial Church, 595 Graafschap Road in Holland, with a luncheon immediately following the service. Reverend Bill Boersma will be officiating. Burial will be in Graafschap Cemetery.
A livestream link will be available for those unable to attend.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Christ Memorial Church, Faith Hospice Circle of Faith, or Samaritan’s Purse.
Al’s greatest legacy was his faith in Jesus Christ and the love he shared with his family and everyone blessed to know him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Arrangements are by Dykstra Funeral Homes-Northwood Chapel.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Alvin "Al," please visit our floral store.
Katherine Marie (Kaminski) Saurbaugh
May 30, 1955-June 23, 2026
Katherine Marie Saurbaugh, age 71, of Grand Haven, passed away on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Bridgeway Park Assisted Living-Grand Haven.
She was born on May 30, 1955, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to the late Francis and Pauline (Fricano) Kaminski.
Katherine graduated from high school and went on to work her entire career doing secretarial work for Ferry Elementary School in Grand Haven until her retirement. She enjoyed traveling, especially to Key West, Florida, and loved to go to the beach. Katherine enjoyed spending most of her time with all her friends at Ferry School and her grandchildren.
Katherine will be lovingly remembered and missed by her two daughters, Martha (Chad) Scholtens and Libby Saurbaugh (significant other, Jason Adams); her son, Robert (Amy) Saurbaugh; her significant other of 24 years, Paul F. Ellingboe; siblings, Martha (Robert) Bell; F. James (Debra) Kaminski, John (Lori) Kaminski; as well as many extended family members.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved grandson, Jayden Rufener; sister, Paula Kaminski; her stepfather, John P. von Albade; and her step-brother, Matthew von Albade.
A private family Graveside Service for Katherine will be held at Lake Forest Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made online to PML Foundation at pmlfoundation.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Katherine Marie (Kaminski) Saurbaugh, please visit our floral store.
Jaquelyn Rae Swanezy
March 10, 1951-June 27, 2026
Jaquelyn Swanezy of Holland, Michigan, passed away on June 27, 2026.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Jaquelyn Rae Swanezy, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Paul W. Van Wyk
July 3, 1937-June 26, 2026
Paul W. Van Wyk, age 88, passed away in the early morning hours of June 26, 2026.
He went peacefully with his wife and daughter by his side.
Paul graduated from Holland High School. He was a Christian man, a member of Community Reformed Church and former member of Maranatha CRC. He taught his family the values of hard work and spending each day to its fullest. He was an avid horse lover from a very young age and proudly told everyone that his 1st horse, at the age of 4, was named Bonnie. It was 14 years later when he met the love of his life, Bonnie Deur. Paul worked at Miles Chemical in Zeeland out of high school and drove truck for his dad, who owned Gra-Bell Truck Lines. Later, Paul was an owner of Gra-Bell along with his brothers.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Marinus and Nelvie (Rookus) Van Wyk, his brothers and sisters-in-law, Jim and Ruth Van Wyk, and Roger and Betty Van Wyk. Also preceding him in death were in-laws, Julius and Margaret Deur; brother-in-law, Paul Deur; and grandchildren, Moriah Huffman, Nicole Van Wyk and Brett Van Wyk.
He is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Bonita (Bonnie); his children, Sandy (Dan) Huffman, Sonja (Mark) Machiele, and Bob (Deb) Van Wyk; his grandchildren, Kyle Huffman, Kasidy (Molly) Huffman, Brandon (Lyndy) Huffman, Stephanie Machiele, Meaghan Machiele, Alexis Van Wyk, and Ryan Van Wyk; brother and sister-in-law, Rog and Diane Roelofs; brother in-law, Ken Deur, along with many nieces and nephews. He was also a proud great-grandpa to Bella and Asher Huffman, Olivia and Emma Huffman, Harper and Quinn Huffman, and Maddison Machiele.
After an early retirement, Paul and Bonnie spent many years at their cottage on Lake Mecosta, where their children and grandkids spent countless days being pulled on tubes behind the boat and fishing with him. Many extended family gatherings were held at the cottage and he loved creating the memories that we all cherish. He loved taking care of the lawn and meticulously cared for it at the cottage and their home in Zeeland.
They also enjoyed wintering at The Villages in Florida. Later, they sold their horse farm in Zeeland and downsized to a condo in Zeeland, which they enjoyed for over 30 years. Paul was diagnosed with dementia, and Bonnie cared for him for many years until they moved to The Farmstead in Holland, where he lived in Assisted Living, and she continues to live in an independent living apartment. She spent the last 15 months walking to visit him and his face lit up whenever he saw her.
The family appreciates the aides at Farmstead who deeply cared for him. Also, for the comforting care he received from Hospice of Holland. His last weeks were difficult and having their support was so comforting to the family.
Funeral services will be at noon on Monday, July 6, 2026, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland. A private burial will follow at Pilgrim Home Cemetery. Visiting will be 10-11:30 a.m. on Monday, July 6, prior to the service.
Memorial contributions may be given to Hospice of Holland or Rest Haven Inc.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Paul W. Van Wyk, please visit our Sympathy Store.
John Allen Vredevoogd
September 14, 1943-June 28, 2026
John Allen Vredevoogd (Sept. 14, 1943-June 28, 2026) passed away on Sunday, June 28, 2026.
Born and raised in Grandville, Michigan, John was a Grandville High School graduate from the class of 1961. He began his career at Steelcase shortly after graduation before proudly serving his country from 1965-1967 as an Armor Crewman in the United States Army. Following his military service, John returned to Steelcase, where he dedicated 39 years of service before retiring. On June 1, 1968, John married the love of his life, Joan Boone, and had three children of whom they were both immensely proud.
John will be remembered most for the love he poured into his family. A devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and great-grandfather, caring brother, and loyal friend, he found his greatest joy in the people he loved. He was happiest when working on a project, always keeping his hands busy and finding a way to fix, build, or create just about anything. A true jack of all trades, John’s talents seemed endless, and he was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it.
He had a gift for storytelling, sharing memories and adventures that brought laughter, wisdom, and connection to those around him. Whether gathered around the kitchen table or meeting friends over a cup of coffee, John cherished conversation and spending time with those he loved. His stories and quick wit made every visit one to remember.
John’s legacy lives on not only in the many things he built and repaired, but also in the family and friends he cherished. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.
He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Joan; children, Kelli (Tom) Ditmar, Amy (Lynn) VanSickle, and Jason (Gretchen) Vredevoogd; grandchildren, Jordan (Kaylee) Miliusis, Chloe (Fernando) Davis, Mackenzie (Joseph) Lozon, Rogan VanSickle, Gabe VanSickle, and William Vredevoogd; great-grandchildren, Deacon Miliusis and Freya Miliusis; brothers-in-law, Ray Hartwell and Lynn Siebers; and sister-in-law, Linda Gerard.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Peter and Evelyn Vredevoogd; parents-in-law, Larry and Jean Boone; siblings, June (Walt) Woodhouse, Neva (Bob) Austin, Clare (Al) Cronheim, Lois Page, Bud Vredevoogd, Shirley Hartwell, Mickey Siebers, Harley Vredevoogd, Don (Sharon) Vredevoogd, Diane (Doc) Tilma; and brother-in-law, Lee Gerard.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Hand2Hand Ministries.
Visitation will be 3-6 p.m. Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. A funeral service celebrating John’s life will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), with visitation from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to the service.
The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in John’s online guestbook.
Barbara (Wesseldyke) Walters
November 17, 1936-June 28, 2026
Barbara (Wesseldyke) Walters, age 89, loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, passed away Sunday, June 28, 2026.
She is survived by her husband of 15 years, Jason; her children, Doug and Evonne Wesseldyke, Scott and Linda Wesseldyke, and Randy and Paula Wesseldyke; her grandchildren, Ryan and Lyndsay Wesseldyke, Travis and Susie Wesseldyke, Sondra and Ray Martinez, Eric and Mikki Wesseldyke, Alex and Samantha Wesseldyke, Josh and Samantha Wesseldyke, Nick and Kaily Wesseldyke, and Casey and Jillyssa Wesseldyke; 14 great-grandchildren; stepchildren, Del and Heidi Walters, Kevin and Stephanie Walters, Jan and the Reverend Bob Drenten, and Eric Sooy; step-grandchildren, Sarah and Tim Smith, Dan and Anna Vander Berg, Laura and Mitch Lankheek, Jason and Claire Walters, Seth and Cierra Walters, Benjamin Walters, Lisa Drenten, Jessica and Kyle Henricks, Sarah and Caleb Pluim, John Drenten, Trevor and Morgan Sooy, Meredith Sooy, and Phoenix Sooy; 15 step-great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Justus Veen; and her sister-in-law, Wilma Busscher.
Barb was preceded in death by her first husband, Alvin; daughter-in-law, Judy Wesseldyke; and her stepdaughter, Julie Sooy.
Barb graduated from Zeeland Christian School and Holland Christian High School. She married Alvin Wesseldyke and raised their family in Zeeland and attended First Christian Reformed Church, where she was a member since birth. After Al passed, she married Jason Walters, and they enjoyed 15 years of marriage and traveled extensively. Barb also worked for 30 years at Walters Gardens and enjoyed volunteering at The Bridge Youth Center for several years.
Visitation will be from 5-8 pm Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. The funeral service will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Noordeloos Christian Reformed Church, 4055 112th Ave., Holland. Interment will be in Zeeland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to Zeeland Christian School.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Barbara (Wesseldyke) Walters, please visit our Sympathy Store.
