Obituaries: May 21, 2026
John William Atherton
October 4, 1942-May 19, 2026
John William Atherton, age 83, of West Olive, passed away in Holland on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at a local care facility.
He was born on October 4, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late William and Karin (Rathert) Atherton. John married Janice Dracht on January 22, 1966, in Muncie, Indiana.
John graduated from high school and attended Michigan State University. He was the former owner and operator of Sandy Point Restaurant for many years and was a member of the Big Pine Ridge Reservation (RE-Member) in South Dakota, where he would bring wood for and assist in making bunkbeds.
John was an avid outdoorsman who loved golfing, fishing, and traveling. He was also a history buff, avid reader, and big MSU sports fan.
John will be forever remembered and missed by his loving wife of 60 years, Janice; three sisters, Pam Kamphuis, Sandy Ledbetter, and Jennifer (Dan) Schuitema; his brother, Richard "Dick" Atherton; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and good friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Michael Atherton; sister-in-law, Barb Atherton; and brother-in-law, Ronald Kamphuis.
The funeral service for John will take place at 1 p.m. on Friday, May 22, 2026, at Klaassen Family Funeral Home with Pastor Doug Bytwerk officiating. Visitation will be held just prior to the service from 12:30-1 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be at Grand Haven Township Lakeshore Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Re-Member (re-member.org).
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John William Atherton, please visit our floral store.
Jazmine Estrella Ayala-Mozeake
May 6, 2026-May 6, 2026
Jazmine Estrella Ayala-Mozeake passed on May 6, 2026, born on May 6, 2026.
No services are scheduled at this time.
Marcella Ruth Bursma
October 22, 1932-May 4, 2026
Marcy (Marcella) Bursma, age 93, daughter of Richard and Sena Landstra, received her long-anticipated and much-desired call from her Lord on May 4, 2026.
Leaving her tired earthly body behind, she slipped quietly and peacefully away into her rest. While her family will greatly miss her, they triumphantly celebrate her final journey into the presence of Jesus for all eternity.
Mom was also greeted by her loving husband, Boyd, as they can now spend forever together, in the city where “… the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.” ~ Rev. 21:23
Mom leaves three sons, Mike (Laurie), Dan (Karen), and Tom (Karen). Grandma will also be missed by eight grandchildren, Caitlin, Kurtis, Gerrit, Lance, Eric, Emily, Michelle, and Matt. Her legacy extends to a third generation of 11 great-grandchildren.
She has also been reunited with her sister, Marion (Harold) Stelma, and many, many lifelong friends who have gone on before.
Family was always a top priority for Marcy. After pouring herself into three sons, she made room in her heart for three daughters-in-law and then found ample time and energy to be as big a part of those eight grandchildren’s lives as possible.
Marcy had a quiet, yet purposeful, servant’s heart which found great joy and contentment serving and working in the background, out of the limelight. For over 15 years, Marcy drove a school bus for special needs children who became an extended "family" to her. Before that, she spent several years caring for the elderly in a nursing home.
For many years, she served in the Sunday school programs at Calvary Church. Upon retirement, she and Boyd traveled the country in their fifth-wheel trailer as part of S.O.W.E.R.S., providing volunteer help with maintenance and construction of youth camps and small churches. Her selfless "behind the scenes" support roles are a wonderful memory and model for her family.
The family is very grateful for many years of tender and compassionate care provided by and through Emmanuel Hospice and Sunset Manor.
A celebration of life service will be at noon on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Cook Memorial Chapel, 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418, with visitation beginning 10 a.m. prior to the service. The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.
June Evelyn Dougherty
June 6, 1946-May 15, 2026
June Evelyn Dougherty, age 79 of Wyoming, Michigan, passed away, surrounded by her loved ones, on May 15, 2026.
She was born on June 6, 1946, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the eldest of 12 children born to David and Marion Duram, who preceded her in death.
On February 7, 1967, June married the love of her life, Alden L. Dougherty. Together they purchased their family home in Wyoming, where they raised their four children and built a life filled with love, laughter, and the steady warmth of June’s generous spirit. A devoted homemaker, June poured her heart into caring for her family. Her cooking was legendary — especially her famous potato salad, a staple at every potluck and family gathering.
June had a creative soul and a deep love for crafting. Crocheting brought her immense joy, and she lovingly made blankets for the people she cherished. One of her proudest recent accomplishments was ensuring each of her siblings received a handmade blanket — gifts that will forever carry her warmth and kindness.
She enjoyed simple pleasures that brought her great happiness: playing bingo, bowling in leagues with friends, sharing seafood dinners, and taking fun-filled casino trips with family. Her laughter, her stories, and her unwavering love will be deeply missed.
June was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Alden, and their two sons, Michael and Brian Dougherty.
She is survived by her daughter, Lora (Brian) Sandberg; and grandchildren Grayson and Nevaeh Sandberg; son, John (Tammy) Dougherty; and grandchildren Devin, Andrea, and Veronica; as well as many great-grandchildren who brought her endless joy. She is also survived by her brothers and sisters, each of whom carries a piece of her heart in the blankets she lovingly crafted for them.
June’s legacy is one of love, creativity, and quiet strength. Her family finds comfort knowing she is reunited with Alden, Michael, and Brian, and that her spirit lives on in the countless lives she touched.
Funeral services will be at 2:30 p.m. Friday, May 22, 2026, with visitation from 1:30-2:30 p.m. prior to service, at Cook Memorial Chapel, 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418.
The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.
Harvey Heneveld
October 7, 1945-May 18, 2026
Harvey Eugene Heneveld, beloved child of God and faithful servant, entered the presence of Jesus on May 18, 2026.
Harvey grew up in Graafschap and graduated from Zeeland High School and Hope College. Upon graduation from Western Theological Seminary, he was ordained as a minister in the Reformed Church in America. He served the Mason County Reformed Church in Scottville, Michigan, and then planted a church in Canton, Michigan. After 19 years there, he pastored Olivet Reformed Church in Grandville. In retirement, he served as the visitation pastor for Fair Haven Church in Hudsonville.
Harvey was the beloved and faithful husband of Elaine and father and grandfather of David and Jodi Heneveld (Leah Heneveld, Seth and Hannah Heneveld, and Micah Heneveld), Rebecca Heneveld (Abigail Heneveld, and Grace Heneveld), Elisabeth and Jeffrey Straley (Lauren and Tanner Griffin, Julia and Seth Laughlin, Sophia Straley, and Claire Straley). He is also survived by his siblings, Joan Heneveld, Gary and Janet Heneveld, and James and Sharon Heneveld, his brothers-in-law Victor and Nancy Folkert, and Calvin and Eva Folkert.
Harvey was a fervent prayer warrior for many people. His entire life focus was proclaiming Christ and living fully for Him. His engaging spirit drew people to his side. Now he is fully healed and rejoicing in the presence of the Lord. “Well done, good and faithful servant!”
Visitation will be 9:30-10:45 a.m. Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Fair Haven Church, 2900 Baldwin, Hudsonville, MI. The memorial service to honor the life of Harvey will follow at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Words of Hope.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Harvey Heneveld, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Jacqueline Marie (Beverwyk) Lyttle
February 19, 1935-May 17, 2026
Jacqueline Marie Lyttle, age 91, of Grand Haven, passed away on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at Heartwood Lodge.
She was born on February 19, 1935, in Holland, Michigan, to the late Jacob and Lillian (Harthorne) Beverwyk. Jacqueline married Richard Lyttle on September 1, 1951, in Grand Haven. He preceded her in death on February 2, 2012, after 60 years of marriage.
Jacqueline was a long-time resident of Grand Haven who grew up in Holland and graduated from Holland High School. She began her working career as a secretary to the plant engineer for H.J. Heinz Corp., and later, for Bil-Mar Foods. Jacqueline loved going to the casinos and was a talented crocheter who enjoyed crocheting various pieces for family members. She was also an avid gardener who especially enjoyed tending to her garden.
Jacqueline will be lovingly remembered and missed by her daughter, Linda (Jerry) Baykowski of Grand Haven; sons, Richard (Vicky) Lyttle of Allendale and Russell (Donna) Lyttle of Grand Haven; son-in-law, Jerry Lee; daughter-in-law, Joanne Lyttle; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and brother, Robert Beverwyk.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; two daughters, Lori Bethell and Lisa Lee; two sons, Randall and Rodney Lyttle; her sisters, Patricia Eisenhower and Larke Beverwyk; brothers, James and John Beverwyk; and numerous in-laws.
Private family services will be held.
Memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Health at Home Hospice-Grand Haven.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jacqueline Marie (Beverwyk) Lyttle, please visit our floral store.
Paul Samuel Moker
May 30, 1953-May 18, 2026
Paul Samuel Moker, a resident of Laketown Township, Michigan, passed away suddenly on May 18, 2026, at the age of 72.
Born on May 30, 1953, in Holland, Michigan, Paul spent his life bringing joy and laughter to all who knew him.
A devoted family man, Paul was a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Dianne, his sons, Eric Moker, Jeremiah Moker (and his partner Jessica Novak), Jaden Pierce, and Rene Ramirez; his daughter, Amanda Borboa (and her husband Javier); along with many beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his father, Paul Moker; his mother, Thelma Moker; and his sister, Bonnie Moker.
Paul was a small engine mechanic at Taylor Rental, where he honed his skills and developed a passion for precision work. Later, he pursued his entrepreneurial spirit as the owner and operator of Paul's Sharpening Service, a testament to his dedication and craftsmanship.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Paul had a rich array of hobbies and interests. He was an avid woodworker, known for his ability to transform pieces of wood into beautiful creations. His love for tinkering was evident in everything he did, whether it was fine-tuning a mechanical project or perfecting his latest endeavor with his wife, Dianne. He was especially fond of driving his Craftsman around the property.
Paul cherished his winters in Arizona, where he enjoyed the camaraderie of playing bocce ball with friends and basking in the warm, sunny weather. His quick wit and fondness for sharing "dad jokes" made him a favorite among friends and family alike.
The family invites friends and loved ones to attend a visitation at Trinity Reformed Church, located at 712 Apple Ave., Holland, Michigan, on May 30, beginning at 10 a.m. A celebration of life service will follow at 11 a.m., where stories and memories will be shared to honor Paul's life and legacy.
Paul Samuel Moker's presence, laughter, and boundless energy will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. His legacy of love, humor, and craftsmanship will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Paul, please visit our floral store.
Sandra "Sandy" Prince
June 23, 1949-May 16, 2026
Sandra “Sandy” Prince, age 76, of Grand Haven, passed away Saturday, May 16, 2026.
She was born June 23, 1949, in Grand Rapids to James and Jeanne (Zylema) Williams. On December 18, 1970, she married Richard Prince, and he preceded her in death in March of 1997.
Sandy was a member of Bethany Church. She loved spending time with her grandchildren, and her life partner, Kim, reading, traveling to the southwest, and working on puzzles. She will be greatly missed.
Sandy is survived by her two sons, Richard Jr. (Paula) Prince, Robert Prince; daughter-in-law, Cindy Prince; life partner, Kim Cosmann; stepdaughters, Ashley (Matt) Schmidt and Emily (Jason) Supinger; grandchildren, James Prince, Skylar Prince, Joseph Prince, Victoria Prince, Sydney Foreman, Christian Foreman, Zachary Foreman, Ezlyn Schmidt, Brasen Schmidt, Zennah Schmidt, Harper Schmidt, Kaius Schmidt and Sydney Supinger; and brother, Richard (Cindy) Williams.
She was preceded in death by her son, Randy Prince.
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 21, 2026, at The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Visitation will be 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service on Thursday at the funeral home.
Interment will take place in Sunrise Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions in memory of Sandy may be given to Turner Syndrome Society of the United States. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services.
Edward Charles Spencer
August 23, 1955-May 15, 2026
Edward Charles Spencer, age 70, passed away on Friday, May 15, 2026.
He was born August 23, 1955, in South Haven, Michigan, to Theodore and Irene Spencer. At the age of 2, he moved to Holland, Michigan, where he attended Holland Public Schools. Edward was married for 49 years to Pauline Spencer before her passing in October 2023.
Edward is survived by his children, LaVonne Burford, Tammy (Brian) Owen, Angela Spencer, and Amy (Jeff) March; his sister, Agnes Jean Vander Plow; nine grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Pauline Spencer; his parents, Theodore and Irene Spencer; and his brother, James Spencer.
No services are being planned at this time.
Richard Derek Vaneenenaam
November 1, 1964-April 25, 2026
Richard Derek Vaneenenaam passed on April 25, 2026, at the age of 61.
Richard was a resident of Holland, Michigan, and no services are being planned at this time.
Vivien Jane Vandenberg
September 17, 1944-May 17, 2026
Vivien Jane Vandenberg died unexpectedly on May 17, 2026.
She was born in the United Kingdom and moved to the U.S. in 1969, settling in Saugatuck. Vivien was an amazing woman and a very talented artist across many mediums, including pottery, glass blowing, sketching, and painting.
She also had a huge heart for kids, especially those in need. She spent years working for the Office of Children’s Ombudsman in Lansing. She worked on many tough cases, staying focused on the needs of the children.
Vivien loved her home in Saugatuck and spent countless hours working in her yard, tending to her flowers and shrubs. She also poured into her grandkids, who brought her incredible joy. She came to almost every performance her grandkids were in, and treasured the moments she had with them. She will be missed dearly by her friends and family. Per her wishes, there will be no memorial service.
Arrangements are by Dykstra Funeral Homes - Downtown Chapel.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Vivien, please visit our floral store.
Richard Derek Vaneenenaam
November 1, 1964-April 25, 2026
Richard Derek Vaneenenaam passed on April 25, 2026, at the age of 61.
Richard was a resident of Holland, Michigan.
No services are planned at this time.
Charles Dewayne Walker
January 3, 1946-May 18, 2026
Charles Dewayne Walker passed on May 18, 2026, at the age of 80.
Born January 3, 1946, Charles lived in Grandville, Michigan.
No services are scheduled at this time.
Sandra E. Wuokko
May 3, 1945-May 13, 2026
Sandra E. Woukko, age 81, of Holland, passed away on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at MediLodge of Holland.
Her physical health had been declining for several years, but her lovely and generous spirit was still strong.
Sandy was born in Holland on May 3, 1945, to Sidney and Everdina (Boeve) Stegenga, who preceded her in death. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family; her infant sister Arlene May preceded her in death, as did her four brothers, Delbert, Allen, Lloyd, and Dennis.
Sandy was a graduate of Davenport College with a degree in accounting. She was a certified Notary Public, and worked for many years at Holland Hospital.
She met William (Bill) Wuokko when she was in her early 20s. They married on May 27, 1972, and were together for 32 years until his passing in 2004.
Sandy is survived by several nieces and nephews and their families, as well as by members of Bill's extended family, most of whom live in the Upper Peninsula. She is also survived locally by many friends from the Holland camp of the Salvation Army, from Fresenius Dialysis Center, and from the MediLodge of Holland community. Sandy was very grateful for having been a member of those communities. Special thanks also to her nephew Lloyd Stegenga and his family for their care for her.
Following Sandy's wishes, there will be no services. She will be laid to rest next to her husband Bill in Republic Cemetery in Republic, Michigan. Langeland Sternberg Funeral Home handled local arrangements.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Sandra E Wuokko, please visit our Sympathy Store.
