Obituaries: March 23, 2026
Grace Antoon
July 31, 1929-March 21, 2026
Grace Antoon, age 96, of Holland, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 21, 2026.
Grace shared 28 wonderful. loving years with her husband, George. They married in the Netherlands on July 31, 1950, immigrating to Wisconsin six months later to start a new life. George passed away on June 21, 1979.
Thirteen years after his passing, Grace was blessed to find love with Gerard Wijers of the Netherlands. They celebrated 24 years of committed love before the passing of Gerard in 2016.
Grace is survived by her four children, Jerry and Diane (Willink) Antoon, Ann and Peter t’Hoen, Margaret and Tony Herzberg, Melissa and William Starbuck. She is further survived by eight grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Her sister, Johanna Puma, survives her and resides in the Netherlands.
Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland. Visitation will be from 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, March 25, at the funeral home, additionally, there will be visitation beginning at 10 a.m. prior to the service on Thursday. Burial will be in Pilgrim Home Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be given to World Renew.
To leave condolences online, please visit langelandsterenberg.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Grace Antoon, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Sylvia Hope Carlson
November 28, 2012-March 20, 2026
Sylvia Hope Carlson, age 13, of Grand Haven, passed away on Friday, March 20, 2026.
She was born on November 28, 2012, in Grand Haven to Michael and Jill Carlson. Her family finds comfort in knowing that she is fully healed in heaven: running, dancing, singing, and living without any pain or limitations.
Sylvia was greatly loved by many. She participated in the SXI program at Spring Lake Public Schools and also volunteered in the Power Mobility study at Grand Valley State University. She had a love for music — listening to her favorite songs, playing instruments, and listening to her dad play the piano. Sylvia also enjoyed playing games with her mom, dance parties with her caregiver (Miss Kristi), reading books, and going on adventures.
She is lovingly remembered by her parents, Michael and Jill; her sisters, Olivia and Ella; her grandparents, Douglas and Debra Borden, and Vergil and Barbara Carlson; her aunts and uncles: Bradley (Junko) Borden, Tania (John) Reis, and David (Diane) Carlson; and her special friend and caregiver, Kristi VanWeelden. She was preceded in death by her namesake great-grandmother, Sylvia and Dallas Terry.
A funeral service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 28, 2026, at The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. The service will also be available via live stream. Visitation will take place 4-7 p.m. Friday, March 27, 2026, at the funeral home. Interment will take place in Lake Forest Cemetery. Memorial contributions in Sylvia’s memory may be made Kenzie’s Be Café. Please visit Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services to sign the family’s online guestbook.
The family is being served by The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave, Grand Haven, MI 49417.
Ngeun Chanthavong
April 10, 1957-March 22, 2026
Ngeun Chanthavong passed away on March 22, 2026, at the age of 68.
A traditional celebration of Ngeun's life will be Friday, March 27, 2026, at Lakeshore Memorial Services, 11939 James St., Holland.
Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., with services following at noon at the funeral home.
Please visit lakeshorememorial.com for further information.
Dr. William Gras
January 7, 1937-March 19, 2026
Dr. William (Bill) Gras, 89 of Zeeland, passed away Thursday, March 19, 2026.
He is survived by his children Mark Gras, Lynn Gras, Karin and David Carvalho, Sarah and Dave Munson, and granddaughters Anna and Ella Carvalho, and Mapi Munson; his siblings Evelyn Myaard, Andy and Annie Gras, Norma and Chuck Monsma, Marie Williams, Ester Mains, Joanne Gras and Leah Kelley, John and Von Gras.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn, in 2020, and ever since his three daughters have been doing their best to match her unwavering support. He was born in Zeeland, Michigan. He graduated from Holland Christian, Calvin College, and University of Michigan School of Medicine. Dr. Gras had a Ph.D in physics, then became interested in optics while doing research so returned to school to become an ophthalmologist/eye surgeon. He and Carolyn managed his practice in Zeeland. They both believed and embodied serving the underserved, both through his medical practice at home and his medical mission trip adventures overseas, especially Mercy Ships. He was an avid ham radio operator and pilot and could often be found adjusting his antennae on the roof to reach voices around the world, or tinkering with his airplane in the garage, or modifying some invention using questionable physics but a whole lot of fun!
A family celebration of life will take place at a later date, and his ashes will be buried next to Carolyn on Churchill, Montana. Memorials may be made to Mercy Ships mercyships.org.
Phyllis Jean Jones
November 13, 1933-March 17, 2026
Phyllis J. Jones, age 92, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2026, in Standale, Michigan.
She was born on November 13, 1933, to Elmer F. and Jessie (Megarah) Adgate in Ionia, Michigan, the last of eight children. She grew up on a farm in Collins, Michigan. Phyllis first attended school at Riker Schoolhouse and later graduated from Portland High School. After high school, she moved to Lansing, where she worked and attended some courses at Michigan State University.
A woman of great compassion, Phyllis dedicated much of her life to the care of others. While primarily a mother and home-maker, she also worked as a nurse aide at Clark Home for many years and demonstrated her tenacity by attending Grand Rapids Community College later in life to pursue her dream of becoming a registered nurse. Her nurturing spirit extended into her community as a Cub Scout Den Mother, a frequent volunteer, a grateful member of Al-Anon, and a missionary.
Phyllis was a true traveling enthusiast, famously touring the country in her beloved van, "Hermie." Whether she was wintering in Yuma, Arizona, or enjoying the lakeside beauty of Grand Haven and Spring Lake, she found joy in the world around her. She had a deep appreciation for the quiet beauty of birds and the intricate artistry of stained glass, a craft she used to beautify her home. An avid reader and life-long learner, she was an active member of Lake Harbor United Methodist Church, participating in numerous Bible studies and book clubs.
From the quiet of a kayak to the energy of a sporting event or a classical concert, Phyllis embraced life’s variety. Above all, she loved a good party and cherished any time spent gathered with her family and her many friends.
She is survived by her children: Susan Jackson, Bradley (Thiennga Ngo) Jones, Kenneth Jones; grandchildren: Samantha (Alex) Seto, Sydney (Amanda Kesson) Jackson, Bonnie Jones, and Trent Jones; sisters-in-law Sally Adgate, and Joanne Adgate. She is preceded in death by her parents: Elmer and Jessie Adgate; siblings Leland Adgate, Eleanor (Kenneth) Day, Wayne (Mary Lou) Adgate, Lois Adgate, Neal Adgate, Margaret (Norris Signs, Harold “Bud”) Whipple, and Lawrence Adgate.
A memorial service will be 11 a.m. Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Lake Harbor United Methodist Church, 4861 Henry St., Muskegon. Arrangements by The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 213 W. Savidge St., Spring Lake. Please consider signing the family’s online guestbook and share memories at sytsemafh.com.
A memorial luncheon and golf outing are being planned for Friday, June 12, 2026, at Willow Wood Golf Club in Portland, Michigan. Details have not been finalized as of yet. Please contact jones.ngo+golf@gmail.com if interested or for more information.
Đính Thị Lê
June 6, 1943-March 20, 2026
Đính Thị Lê, age 82, of Holland, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 20, 2026.
Born in Vietnam, Đính dedicated her early years to education, serving her community as a devoted teacher. With bravery, she eventually sacrificed everything she knew to move her family from Vietnam to the United States, seeking to build a new life and a brighter future for her children.
Đính was the heart of her family and a pillar of strength for those who knew her. She was incredibly kind and instinctively generous, possessing a rare capacity for empathy. She had a special place in her heart for the vulnerable, often reaching out to help those in need or down on their luck with a quiet grace. To experience her warmth was to know the true meaning of unconditional love.
Though she has left this earth, the tenderness of her spirit remains. Her legacy of kindness will continue to be felt by everyone who was fortunate enough to be touched by her light.
Đính was blessed with a large, vibrant family whom she cherished beyond measure. She is survived by Thanh Văn Nguyễn, her devoted husband of 56 years, her six children, and ten grandchildren. All of whom will carry forward her lessons of compassion.
Services
• Visitation: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 4-8 p.m. Friday, March 27, 2026. A prayer ceremony will be held at 7 p.m. Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home 315 E. 16th St., Holland.
• Funeral mass: 10 a.m. Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Our Lady of La Vang Catholic Church 2019 Porter SW, Wyoming, Michigan.
• Interment: Interment will follow at Pilgrim Home Cemetery in Holland.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Đính Thị Lê, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Claudia Malik
May 28, 1946-March 19, 2026
Claudia Malik, age 79 of Holland, passed away Thursday, March 19, 2026.
She is survived by her husband of 56 years Paul, her children Melissa and Martin Van Oort, Mary Malik, Carol and Collin Griffiths, her grandchildren, Jonah Malik, Anne Van Oort, Adrian Van Oort, Olivia Griffiths, Emily Griffiths, and Aubrey Griffiths, her siblings John and Eileen Phetteplace, Carol and Rick Mitchell, her half siblings Bob Phetteplace, Darlene Hagerman, and Linda Thrower, her brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Rose Nelson, Edward and Betty Malik, Dolly Malik and Steven Tyler, Polly Malik and Bill De Camp, her Godson Andy Gossner, and many nieces and nephews.
Claudia was preceded in death by her infant son, Eddie, and her parents, Robert and Barbara Phetteplace. She was a member of Saint Francis de Sales Catholic Church. Claudia was a registered nurse and worked at several local nursing homes.
Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland. Her funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, March 27, 2026, at Saint Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 171 W. 13th St., Holland. Interment will be in Pilgrim Home Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Hope Pkgs, hopepkgs.org/give.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Claudia Malik, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Phyllis Annette (Ver Hulst) Moody
June 12, 1939-March 20, 2026
Phyllis Annette Moody (née Ver Hulst), age 86, of Grand Haven, Michigan (formerly of Milford, Michigan), passed away peacefully at home on March 20, 2026.
Phyllis was born and raised in Holland, Michigan. After graduating from Holland High School, she went on to earn a teaching degree from Central Michigan University, and later, a master's degree in education from Michigan State University. Phyllis was a dedicated elementary teacher for all her working years.
On August 20, 1960, Phyllis married Douglas "Bruce" Moody and the two were inseparable for 61 years until Bruce's death in February 2022.
Phyllis was actively involved in several organizations throughout her life, including Youth Assistance of Oakland County, Eastern Star, West Michigan Jazz Society, and the Jaycettes. A devoted member of the United Methodist Church of the Dunes, Phyllis generously gave her time serving on the lunch committee at funerals and participating in the church's golf league. She found great joy in traveling (especially wintering in Mesa, Arizona) and in simple pleasures like reading and scenic countryside drives. Above all, Phyllis cherished the time she spent with her grandchildren.
Phyllis is survived by her children, Carol (Michael) Mills, Jeffrey (Melannie) Moody, and Douglas (Margaret) Moody; 11 grandchildren, Ryan, Bradley, Joshua, Tyler and Christopher Mills, Amber (Moody) DeWitt, Rosa Moody and Jared Englert and Brett, Carlton and Olivia Moody; 6 great-grandchildren; and her sisters, Shirley Wissink and Lois Kelly.
Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Eva (Goodwine) Ver Hulst; her husband, D. Bruce Moody, Ph.D.; and two brothers, John and Bill Ver Hulst.
The funeral service for Phyllis will be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at noon at United Methodist Church of the Dunes in Grand Haven, Michigan, with Pastor Lou Grettenberger officiating. Visitation will be from 10 a.m.-noon prior to the service at the church. Phyllis will be laid to rest at Lake Forest Cemetery in Grand Haven.
Memorial contributions may be made to United Methodist Church of the Dunes.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Phyllis Annette (Ver Hulst) Moody, please visit our floral store.
Jon William Schrotenboer
October 2, 1934-March 18, 2026
Jon Schrotenboer, age 91, of Hamilton, passed away on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at his home.
Jon was born in Holland on October 2, 1934, to John and Jesse Schrotenboer. Jon founded Schrotenboer Electric in 1976 and was a lifetime member of the Reformed Church in America. He gave many hours of his time to Christian Youth Camps and to missions, both local and abroad. He was a member of Hamilton Reformed Church.
In December, Jon was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Eileen. He was also preceded in death by his siblings, Paul Schrotenboer, Dave Schrotenboer, Eugene Schrotenboer, and Lois Top; and his in-laws, Junior Eding, Dorothy Eding, and Elwin Eding.
Jon is survived by his children: Daniel Schrotenboer of Dunningville, Jeffry (Marcy) Schrotenboer of Hamilton, Jon Jay (Theresa) Schrotenboer of Hamilton, Todd Schrotenboer of Hamilton; 11 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; siblings: Judy Bosch, Mary (Duane) Timmer, Ellen (Gordon) Bosch, Jane (Wayne) Lampen; in-laws: Mary Eding, Erma Taylor, Larry (Lorraine) Eding, Lester (Faye) Eding.
Visitation is scheduled for 10-11:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland. His funeral service will follow at noon, also at the funeral home. Rev. Kevin Hart will officiate. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery in Hamilton. Memorial contributions may be made to Hamilton Reformed Church. Condolences may be left online at langelandsterenberg.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Jon William Schrotenboer, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Lonna M. Smith
August 12, 1940-March 17, 2026
Lonna Mae Smith, age 85, passed away in Grand Haven, Michigan, on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
Lonna was born on August 12, 1940, in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, to Gilbert and Grace (Jahnke) Eger, and she graduated from Brookfield High School.
Lonna was born and raised in Wisconsin, but in the late 1970s, Lonna purchased the White House Supper Club in Mohawk, Michigan, which she operated for several years. Following her time there, Lonna moved to Minocqua, Wisconsin. Lonna worked at the Concord Inn, the Lakeland Times, and spent many years working in the advertising department of Journal & Topics Media Group, a job that allowed her to travel and experience the local charms that different small towns had to offer. Lonna was still working for Journal and Topics when she moved to Grand Haven, Michigan, in 2015.
Lonna loved spending time outdoors, especially hunting, fishing, and camping. She even started a snowmobiling club in the U.P. She liked antiquing and selling her finds.
Her faith in the Lord was deep and very important to her, and in the last 10 years, she attended church at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Grand Haven whenever she could.
She was an avid Green Bay Packers fan, zealous hostess and party planner, loved baking and cooking, found great delight in crafting, writing poetry, and enjoyed the occasional cigarette. She was a kind, generous, stubborn, resilient, loving woman who always tried to make the people around her feel special. More than anything, she enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her son, Craig, and great-grandsons, Otto and Gunnar.
Lonna is survived by four children: Lori (Tony) Ryherd, Carrie Piche, Robert Schoenecker, and Craig Schoenecker; five grandchildren: Lindsey (Ben) Barkow, Ross Boettcher, Chelsea Boettcher, Ben Schoenecker, and Kaitlyn Schoenecker; great-grandchildren: Otto, Gunnar, Luca, and Max; brother, Dean (Arlene) Eger; nephew, Gilbert “Butch” (Julie) Eger; Niece, Peggy Eger; Joe (Laurie) Schoenecker; and friends Dianne and Sandy.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Gilbert and Grace Eger; son, Scott Schoenecker; and brother, Norm (Shirley) Eger.
Per Lonna’s wishes, no public services are being held, but memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church in Grand Haven, Michigan. Arrangements have been entrusted to The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven.
George Suchecki
March 20, 2026
George Suchecki, 89, of Spring Lake, Michigan, passed away on March 20, 2026, leaving behind a lasting legacy of faith, service, and love. He looked forward to the day when he would be called to his heavenly home — great is his faithfulness.
A dedicated educator throughout his career in the Allendale Schools, George served as a teacher, coach, and administrator. He will be remembered for his calm leadership, encouraging mentorship, and genuine care for students.
George’s life was deeply rooted in his faith and community. A lifelong active member of Spring Lake Christian Reformed Church, he shared Christ’s love through his generous heart, steadfast prayers, and acts of kindness. Together with his beloved wife of 62 years, Edna (DeYoung), he lived out those values each day—welcoming friends with warmth, extending generous hospitality, and encouraging everyone he met with kindness and faith. All will cherish the special memories shared with George and Edna during summers at Upper Silver Lake and winters in Panama City Beach.
George is lovingly remembered by his three daughters: Brenda (Nathan) Tuttle, Tamela (David) Bock, and Jill (Gary) Piwko; seven grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He now joins Edna in the eternal presence of his Savior, Jesus Christ, whose love guided his life and continues to shine through his family.
The family will gather privately for a service of worship and gratitude to celebrate George’s life and steadfast faith. Those who wish to honor his memory may contribute to Grace Ministries International (P.O. Box 9405, Grand Rapids, MI 49509). Please designate your gift to “Tuttle Ministry” in support of Jonathan Tuttle, George’s grandson, and his wife, Brenda Z. Tuttle, who serve as missionaries in Nicaragua.
The family is being served by The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St, Spring Lake, MI 49456.
