Obituaries: March 31, 2026
Melissa C. Brown
August 10, 1950-March 26, 2026
Melissa C. Brown, 75, of Holland, Michigan, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Thursday, March 26, 2026, after a long battle with dementia.
Her peaceful passing stood in fitting contrast to the bold, brilliant approach to all things in life. She was a powerful intellect, fierce mom, and highly accomplished professional and attorney.
Melissa was born July 10, 1950, in Sydney, Australia, to Douglas and Celia (O’Donnell) Brown, the youngest of two daughters. Douglas, a Staff Sergeant wounded in action during World War II while serving in the Army Air Corps, married Celia in Australia and they briefly made their home there. In the 1950s, the family returned to the United States aboard the Queen Mary and settled in Spring Lake.
Melissa showed tremendous academic and musical potential at an early age. She played the French horn and was a gifted pianist, later becoming a member of the National Honor Society. She initially attended the University of Michigan and completed her undergraduate education at Grand Valley following the birth of her son, Iain. She then began a distinguished career in communications, first with Herman Miller and later Steelcase, before going on to earn a master’s degree from Ohio University. Melissa moved to Grand Rapids in 1987, where she wrote award-winning speeches for numerous executives in the furniture and other industries.
Melissa met Dr. Edward Baum soon thereafter at Fountain Street Church. They married in August 1992. Their mutual connections to Grand Valley State University were powerful: Melissa’s mother had been an accountant with GVSU since its founding in 1962; Ed was a chemistry professor and led the Honors College; Iain graduated from GVSU in 1998. By the time of Ed’s retirement in 2017, someone in the family had been in the administration, faculty, or student body for 55 years.
At the age of 44, Melissa undertook her greatest academic and professional challenge, this time by enrolling in Notre Dame Law School. Her grit, determination and vision propelled her to the top of her class, earning honors in legal writing and distinguishing herself in an exceptional class that included a future Supreme Court Justice. She went on to professional acclaim at large firms in Chicago, returning to West Michigan in 2009. Along the way, she took the “hard” cases, represented indigent and unpopular clients who needed help the most, and nobly applied her legal acumen in service to others.
Beyond her professional life, Melissa pursued her lifelong passions for dogs, horses, music and the arts, found joy in the small kindnesses of home in West Michigan, and, most importantly, embraced her role as “Babo” to her beloved grandchildren.
The world may be a bit dimmer today than when Melissa illuminated it with her bright, brash intelligence and courage. But that peaceful passing is a temporary sunset in anticipation of the dawn that brings with it the dividend of all that her family, friends and colleagues learned from her as they put those things to work in their own lives.
Melissa is survived by her husband of 33 years, Dr. Edward Baum; her son, Colonel Iain Pedden (USMC) and his wife, Danielle; their children, Grace, Jack, and Josephine; and Ed’s daughters, Laura and Jeanne.
Visitation will be 1-2:45 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 3 p.m. on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland, Michigan. Interment will take place at Pilgrim Home Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Equest Center in Rockford or the ASPCA.
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Maria Catherine Fiorelli
May 18, 1940-March 29, 2026
Maria C. Fiorelli, 85, of Holland, Michigan, a former longtime Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, resident, passed on March 29, 2026, peacefully at home after a long illness, surrounded by family.
She was predeceased by her loving husband of 35 years, Lt. Col. Joseph “Jerry” C. Fiorelli (USAF), and dear sister-in-law, Angela Fiorelli of Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts.
She is survived by her beloved children: Patrick DeHertogh of Medway, Massachusetts, Fran (Joe) Cilella of Holland, Michigan, and Tina DeMember of Merrimack, N.H. She is also survived by her three cherished grandchildren, Joseph DeMember of Miami, Florida, Alexa (Allen) Potter of Boston, Massachusetts, and Jenn Cilella of Holland, Michigan.
Maria was born in 1940 in Antwerp, Belgium. She spent her childhood enjoying both bustling city life and time spent biking around the quiet countryside with her family. As a young woman, she traveled to Vancouver, Canada, seeking new adventures and to further her education in business management. She later returned to Belgium and there she met the love of her life, Jerry Fiorelli. Maria moved to the United States in 1963, where she and Jerry started their family together.
After several years of military relocations and Jerry’s retirement, they returned to Shrewsbury, Massachusetts. Maria became the payroll clerk for the Shrewsbury School Department and a committed member of her community. After many years of dedicated service, Maria retired in 1999.
Maria travelled extensively, enjoying multiple African safaris, an expedition to South America with Jerry, and many trips to Europe for adventures with family and friends.
She treasured the beauty and diversity of nature from the back woods of Maine, to the ocean of Martha’s Vineyard, the mountains of Vancouver, and the wonder of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.
In 2006, she moved to Holland, Michigan. She deeply valued the local Dutch culture and was a frequent volunteer at The Bridge downtown. Maria spent many hours outside tending to her flower gardens and savoring time spent with her friends, family, and loved ones.
A memorial service will be 1-2 p.m. Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Dykstra Funeral Home - Mulder Chapel, 188 W. 32nd St., Holland. Visitation will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
Maria will find her final resting place beside her husband in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Salvation Army, 104 Clover St., Holland, MI 49423 or Hospice of Holland, 270 Hoover Blvd., Holland, MI 49423.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Maria, please visit our floral store.
DeWayne Garland
November 21, 1956-March 28, 2026
DeWayne Garland, age 69, of Grand Haven, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at home.
He was born on November 21, 1956, in Grand Haven, Michigan, to the late Malcolm and Frances (Rogers) Garland. DeWayne married Laura Schmidt on August 28, 1976, in Grand Haven.
DeWayne graduated from Grand Haven High School, where he played on the football team, and he loved shooting trap and skeet. He also enjoyed playing softball, and later in life, golfing and bowling in a Friday night league at Starlite Lanes, where he won multiple league championships with his sons. DeWayne was an avid outdoorsman who loved going fishing with his kids and playing cards with his wife and their family.
DeWayne faithfully served his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, as an Elder and head of maintenance at Trinity Church. Most important to him was his devotion to his family. They were truly his whole world.
DeWayne will be forever remembered and missed by his loving wife of 49 years, Laura; his two sons, Jason (Angie) Garland and Brian (Melissa) Garland; grandchildren: Jonathan (Emily), Jaxson, Braylon, Boston, Ian, and Penelope; great-grandchild, Espn; his mother, Frances Wagner; mother-in-law, Maxine Schmidt; sister, Barb (Rick) Hamilton; brothers-in-law: Bill (Terri) Schmidt, Fred Schmidt, Tim (Dianna) Schmidt, David (Sally) Schmidt; as well as many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his fathers, Malcolm Garland and Ray Wagner; his granddaughter, Arella; and father-in-law, Donald Schmidt.
The memorial service for DeWayne will take place at 2 p.m. on Friday, April 3, 2026, at Trinity Church Grand Haven with Pastor Emmett Brown officiating. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Thursday, April 2, at Klaassen Family Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Church Grand Haven.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of DeWayne Garland, please visit our floral store.
Paul David Malone
January 13, 1969-March 27, 2026
Beloved father, partner, brother, and friend, Paul David Malone, passed away on March 27, 2026, in Muskegon, Michigan. Born on January 13, 1969, in Macon, Mississippi to O.C. and Roxie (Rogers) Malone, Paul carried his Southern roots with him throughout his life — steady, loyal, and kind.
A proud graduate of Motley High School in Mississippi and a longtime member of Oakland Missionary Baptist Church in Crawford, Mississippi, Paul believed in hard work, faith, and family. Rooted in Mississippi, Paul met his partner, Doretta Flowers, while she was visiting family, and later moved north to be with her. Together, they shared twenty-nine years of companionship marked by love and commitment. For approximately 23 years, he was a trusted hand at Grand Haven Gasket, where he handled materials, cut parts, and stepped in wherever help was needed. Colleagues remember him as dependable and humble — "one of a kind," the person you could always count on.
Paul found joy in the simple things: cheering on University of Michigan football, walking the fields for rabbits and squirrels, turning wrenches under the hood, and studying karate for the challenge and discipline of it. He loved being with family and friends and had a gift for making people feel seen and supported.
He is survived by his partner of many years, Doretta Flowers; his children, Paul Malone Jr., Dieangelo Rice, and Octaivoos Hubbard; and his bonus daughter, Sheretta Flowers. He is also survived by his siblings, Daniel Malone, Carl (Kathleen) Malone, Tommie Malone, Darlene Rogers, Deborah Bilbrew, Carol Malone, Angela Rogers, Paula (his twin) Malone, Marissa Wells, and Jaminaka Rogers; several grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
He was preceded in death by loved ones whose names will be shared by the family.
Visitation will be 11 a.m. on April 9, 2026, followed by a funeral service at noon at Clock Funeral Home, 1469 Peck St., Muskegon. Burial will follow at Mona View Cemetery.
Please share stories and photos that capture his spirit-the laughter, the pride, and the love he gave so freely at clockfuneralhome.com.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Paul David Malone, please visit our flower store.
Arthur Lee Johnson
April 7, 1950-March 25, 2026
Arthur Lee Johnson was born on April 7, 1950, to Samuel and Mary Johnson in Leland, Mississippi.
He was raised in Chicago, Illinois, where he attended St. Mel High School and developed the foundation of the strong character and values that would guide him throughout his life.
With aspirations in the hospitality industry, Arthur relocated to Grand Rapids, Michigan, nearly 50 years ago, where he built a life rooted in hard work, perseverance, and connection. Over the course of his career, he demonstrated a strong work ethic and a natural ability to connect with people, ultimately transitioning into real estate, where he concluded his professional journey serving the Grand Rapids community.
Arthur was a man deeply devoted to family. As the middle child of nine siblings — Eleanor, Ida Bea, Jessie, Willie, Albert, David, Victor, and Samuel Jr. (Eleanor, Jessie, Victor, and Sam Jr.) preceded him in death — he grew up in a large and loving household that shaped his appreciation for unity and togetherness. He carried those values into his own life as a proud father to five children: Bryan, Antoinette, Arthur Jr., Tresa, and Kristin (Bryan and Antoinette preceded him in death). He also leaves behind his loving fiancée, Patricia, along with a legacy of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family who will continue to cherish his memory.
A man of deep faith, Arthur was a dedicated member of Christ Our Savior Church in Holland, Michigan. He was an active and valued participant in the men’s Bible study group, where he found joy in studying, teaching, and thoughtfully discussing the Word of God. His faith was a cornerstone of his life and a source of strength, guidance, and peace.
Arthur was known as the social heart of the family — a true “social butterfly.” He had a special love for written correspondence and took great pride in sending cards for every occasion, whether birthdays, holidays, or just to let someone know they were on his mind. His thoughtful gestures left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
Through all of life’s challenges, Arthur maintained a sharp wit, a sarcastic sense of humor, and a resilient spirit that uplifted those around him. His presence brought laughter, warmth, and authenticity to every room he entered.
Arthur Lee Johnson will be deeply missed and forever remembered in the hearts of those who loved him.
A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 11, at Christ Our Saviour Lutheran Church, 3151 120th Ave., Holland.
Payten Lynn Johnson
April 9, 2007-March 27, 2026
Payten Lynn Johnson, age 18, went to be with her Lord on Friday, March 27, 2026.
She will be remembered by her parents, James and Elizabeth Johnson; sister, Malarie Johnson; grandparents, Roderick and Jan Johnson, Doug and Lori Nieuwkoop, and Rick and Rhonda Mayhew; along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Payten will forever be known for having the most beautiful smile that would light up the whole entire room. She loved music, soaking in the sunshine, and going on long walks with her parents or nurses. Her favorite places to be were with her family and where everyone was talking, so she could listen. She never got tired of watching her favorite Disney movies like, "Beauty and the Beast" or playing tricks on her parents and sister. Payten was the biggest entertainer in the room and could make the worst day become the best day ever without needing to speak, her smile and laugh were enough. Above all, Payten’s biggest accomplishments were being the strongest and happiest person on the face of the earth despite all of her disabilities, along with being the best sister and daughter anyone could ask for.
A private family celebration of Payten’s life will commence on a date and time to be determined. The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.
The family urges donations to be made in Payten's memory to the Make A Wish Foundation, Helen DeVos Children's Hospital or any organizations supporting children with special needs.
Donald Eugene Koopman
October 20, 1942-March 27, 2026
Donald E. Koopman, age 83, of Grand Haven, passed away at home on Friday, March 27, 2026, after a brief illness.
He was born on October 20, 1942, in Grand Haven, Michigan, to Claude and Romana (Putz) Koopman.
Don graduated from Grand Haven High School in 1960. After graduation, he worked briefly at Botbyl Service for a few years. He then went to work at Construction Aggregates as a Purchase Agent. Don worked at Lakeside Auto as a master mechanic from 1982 until his retirement. He served in the National Guard for several years. Don married Norma Anderson on February 8, 1969, and she survives him. Norma was a middle school English teacher.
In his early life, in the 1960s, Don and Mike Dorman built a drag/show roadster. This Dorman/Koopman AAQ/SR Roadster won as the best roadster in Bristol, Tennessee, in 1965, and as one of the 10 Best Hot Rod cars in the United States. This award was one of many awards they won, along with being in Hot Rod Magazine in a special edition.
Don and Norma traveled to Hawaii, Alaska, Ireland, and France, as well as the Canadian Rockies and many ski trips to Winter Park, Colorado. They enjoyed skiing together and always owned a boat. They owned an antique wooden boat that also won an award in Antique boat shows in the area.
Don was active in muzzle loader shooting matches throughout the state and enjoyed hunting deer and turkey. He was a lifetime member of the Rod & Gun Club and a member of the Antique Outboard Motor Club. He was proud that he did his own yard work.
Don is survived by his wife, Norma Jo (Anderson) Koopman; his brother, Gerald (Sue) Koopman; sisters-in-law, Sue (Bob) Brunais and Kathie (Rob) Schwartz; brother-in-law, Tom (Diane) Anderson; along with many nieces and nephews.
The Mass of Christian Burial for Don will take place at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at St. Patrick Church of St. Patrick - St. Anthony Parish, with Fr. Dan Schumaker officiating. Visitations will be 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, at Klaassen Family Funeral Home, as well as one hour prior to the service at the church.
Interment will be at Lake Forest Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Pound Buddies or St. Patrick - St. Anthony Parish.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Donald Eugene Koopman, please visit our floral store.
Leon Prins
March 16, 1942-March 29, 2026
Leon Prins, age 84, passed away on Sunday, March 29, 2026.
Leon demonstrated a life-long servant spirit. His love of gardening was a source of joy and giving, especially when it came to tomatoes. In season, there wasn't a Sunday that went by that he didn't open the back of the car and allow fellow parishioners to take their pick. It was there at North Blendon Reformed Church where he served on the consistory throughout the years. He was a man who gave of himself freely and provided his helpful spirit to fix about anything. Leon was dearly loved and will be greatly missed.
He is preceded in death by his daughter, Sandra Prins, and sister, Shirley Weener.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Sally Prins; daughter, Karen and Russ Evink; grandson, Noah and Dynelle Prins; grandson, Adam and Kenzie Prins; great-grandchildren, Ezra, Lewis, and James; brother-in-law, Jack and Deni Plakke; sister-in-law, Pat and David Van Dyke; brother-in-law, Rev. Sherwin Weener; and his nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Visitation with the family will be 1-1:45 p.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at North Blendon Reformed Church at 7224 Taylor, Hudsonville. A memorial service, including military honors, is the same day at 2 p.m., also at North Blendon Reformed Church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in honor of Leon may be given to North Blendon Reformed Church, 7224 Taylor, Hudsonville.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Leon Prins, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Wesley Jay Vander Lugt
July 20, 1955-March 29, 2026
Wesley Jay Vander Lugt, 70, of Zeeland, Michigan, met his Heavenly Father on March 29, 2026.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick and Catherine Vander Lugt, and his younger brother, Dale.
Wes is survived by his loving wife, Denise Vander Lugt; his children: Abbie (Andrew) Woudwyk, parents of Easton and Brayla; Jordan (Martha) Vander Lugt, parents of Luna and Leon; Breanne (Chad) Heeter, parents of Noah and Beau Wesley; Jacob (Stephanie) Vander Lugt, parents of Everly and a baby girl expected soon; Caleb Vander Lugt and his fiancée, Katie Porter; and Madison (Hunter) Bachman. His sisters Linda Vander Lugt, Nancee (Dave) Kraker, Beverly (Scott) Launiere, and Lorraine Vander Lugt. Denise's siblings, the late Duane Vanden Bosch, Diane (Robert) Friesema, Daryl (the late Debra) Vanden Bosch, Deb (Mike) DeVries and many nieces and nephews, he loved dearly.
Wes grew up in Allendale, Michigan. At the age of 23, he began his career at Herman Miller, and at the age of 27, he met his beautiful wife, Denise. Over nearly 43 years, they raised six children, faithfully sending each of them to Christian school and supporting them through life’s happiest and most challenging moments, exemplifying how to love God and love others.
In 2019, Wes retired from Herman Miller after 41 years of dedicated service. His retirement was joyfully spent supporting his church family through his continued service as an Elder and Cadet Counselor. He delighted in volunteering at Hungry for Christ, making memories with his beloved grandchildren, and going on adventures with his wife, Denise. Wes’ servant’s heart touched countless lives and left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
Within the last month, Wes’ diagnosis and battle with pancreatic cancer shocked and devastated those who love him. His family is deeply grateful for the quality time they were able to share in his final weeks. Wes’ pain and suffering ended when his Savior, Jesus Christ, welcomed him home on this Palm Sunday, March 29, 2026.
Wes’ visitation will be 4-7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 1, at Yntema Funeral Home. His celebration of life will be at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 2, at First Christian Reformed Church in Zeeland. Refreshments will be available after the service in the church’s fellowship room. Memorial contributions may be given to Hungry for Christ, hungryforchrist.org/s-projects-side-by-side.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Wesley Jay Vander Lugt, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Wes' funeral service will be live-streamed and can be viewed at youtube.com/channel/UC0c2xaD2qOerxAa93Qw0gwg.
