Obituaries: Oct. 30, 2026

Calvin Bennett Ainsworth Jr.

April 14, 1929-October 24, 2026

Calvin Bennett “Ben” Ainsworth Jr. was born at Blodgett Hospital on April 14, 1929, to Calvin Bennett Sr. and Emily (Hine) Ainsworth. He graduated from East Grand Rapids High School in the Mighty class of 1947.

Ben served in the United States Navy aboard a heavy cruiser named the USS Albany CCA during the Korean War. After being discharged from the Navy in 1950, he attended Utah State University before graduating from the General Motors Institute Dealer Program and Western Michigan University under the GI Bill.

He was married to Muriel Murphy of Grand Haven for 34 years before her passing in 1985. Ben started his business career with Brunswick Corp. and, in 1964, took over his family’s business, Bennett Fuel Co. He transitioned the company from a coal company into West Michigan’s largest fuel oil dealer and the state’s largest Shell Oil lubricants distributor. In 1990, he sold the company to Crystal Flash and moved to Grand Haven’s North Shore, where his family had owned a cottage since 1944.

Ben had many hobbies, including restoring antique vehicles while listening to his beloved Chicago White Sox on the radio. He purchased his first Model A for $2 at age 13 and his last at age 88. He was a World War II and Michigan Shipwreck buff and was also a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, the Pin Mar Auto Club in Florida, and the Port Side Model A Club of Grand Haven.

Ben greatly enjoyed his memberships in the American Legion, VFW Post 3195, and the Ferrysburg Community Church. He enjoyed spending winters in Largo, FL, where he had many friends and volunteer activities and was grateful to see them one final time last winter. Ben was living — not just surviving — until his last day, as he had his mind and was very mobile and took long walks every day. Above all else, Ben enjoyed Grand Haven sunsets and swimming in Lake Michigan, which he first did in 1937 and last in August of this year.

Ben was preceded in death by his loving and caring wife, Muriel; his sisters, Sharon and Nancy; caring grandson, Murphy, and loyal friend, Audrey Mangione.

He is survived by five wonderful, dedicated children that he couldn’t brag about enough: Gail (Bill) Essenburg (Holland), Calvin Ainsworth III (Spring Lake), Barb (Bruce) Grzegorczyk (Allendale), Tom (Beth) Ainsworth (Grand Rapids), Tim (Julie) Ainsworth (Grand Rapids), and daughter-in-law, Elizabeth Ainsworth (Grand Haven).

Ben is survived by 10 grandchildren, Cory and Jonathan Essenburg, Cal IV, Charles Ainsworth, Abby Delaney, Andrew and Nicole Terpstra, Grant Ainsworth, Jordan Ainsworth, and Katie Patel. He was also blessed with 16 great-grandchildren.

The family will have a visitation on Monday evening, November 2, 2026, from 6-8 p.m. at The Spring Lake Chapel of Systema Funeral and Cremation Services, 213 East Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 49456.

The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at Ferrysburg Community Church, 17785 Mohawk Drive, Spring Lake, MI 49456, with visitation an hour prior from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

John Russell Allen

January 23, 1951-October 20, 2026

John Russell Allen passed away peacefully on October 20th, 2026, in Holland, Michigan

He was Born on January 23, 1951, in Ludington, Michigan.

John was an all-around handyman. He made beautiful furniture and quilts. He enjoyed cooking and baking and made the best Dutch Banket. John fulfilled his love of traveling by driving trucks across the country while working for various companies. John served his Country in the Army during the Vietnam era. He faced his battle with Parkinson’s disease with courage and stayed positive throughout.

John was preceded in death by his father, LaValle Allen; his brother, Gary Lance Allen; and his sister, Toni Jeminez.

He is survived by his dear wife, Judy, of 42 years; sons, Edward and Joshua; sisters and brothers, Kathie Olsen, Sharon (Tim) Heidema, Nancy Hannah, Stanley (Linda) Luspin, Linda Dworkin, and Stepmother Diane Allen; in-laws, Jim and Carole McCluskey, Jerry and Betty Carpenter, and Peter and Connie Guillony. He will also be deeply missed by many nieces and nephews.

Cremation will take place, and a gathering of family and friends to celebrate John’s life will be held at a later date.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John, please visit our floral store.

Randi "Dee" Lynn Campanella

April 20, 1977-October 28, 2026

Randi Lynn Campanella, lovingly known as Dee, peacefully transitioned into our Lord’s kingdom early in the morning of October 28, 2026.

While crossing the finish line, Dee was surrounded by the love of family and friends. Dee will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Knowing Dee has been an honor, a privilege, and a lesson in grace, dignity and humility.

Dee was born in Detroit, Michigan, on April 20, 1977, the firstborn daughter of Carl and Barbara (deceased) Campanella. From the very beginning, Dee had a strong spirit and a personality all her own.

When Dee was young, her family moved to the Dallas-Fort Worth area, where she would grow up and build so many important friendships and memories. Yet Michigan always held a special place in her heart, and in many ways, she always considered it home.

While in Texas, Dee demonstrated outstanding academic prowess throughout her formative years in addition to an active pursuit of opportunities for student leadership and extracurricular involvement. During high school, at Plano Senior High, she was heavily involved in drill team, student council, STAND, gymnastics and cheer — amongst other activities. After high school, Dee pursued her undergraduate degree at The University of Texas at Austin. Her time there was marked by a very busy (yet organized!) calendar, as she maintained an excellent grade point average while involving herself in service organizations and leadership roles across campus — the list is long, but some of her activities included: Summer Orientation Advisor, Orange Jackets, Texas Spirits, Mortar Board, University Tours, Chi Omega and the UT Dance Team.

Her student leadership was recognized with the President’s Leadership Award in 1997, given annually to just six undergraduate students, and the University of Texas Outstanding Student Award in 1998, awarded each year to just two graduating seniors for leadership, scholarship, character and service.

Dee was known for her warmth, humor, goofiness, zest for life, and strong Longhorn spirit. She valued leadership that brought people together and made others feel welcomed and included.

After graduating from UT, Dee served for two years with AmeriCorps. During that time, she participated in a leading-edge research study on HIV/AIDS conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), one of only twenty women to do so.

Dee then earned a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration and a Master of Public Health in Public and Community Health from the University of Maryland. In 2010, Dee relocated to Holland, Michigan, where she worked at Hope College.

For the majority of her professional career, she worked in student affairs, primarily in residential life and housing, with additional work focused on social justice, sexual assault education, and relationship violence prevention. One of the most rewarding parts of her career was supervising employees, developing leaders, and building strong teams. Dee was dedicated to serving, supporting, and advocating for students.

Her first career move after graduate school was to work at Washington University in St. Louis, where she worked as a leader in student housing. Dee then transitioned to working in senior leadership in student life/formation at Hope College in 2010. She shaped resident assistant training and helped students grow into confident, compassionate leaders. During her 15 years of work and service at Hope College, Dee created Students Teaching and Empowering Peers (STEP) at Hope College. She dedicated her life to helping students discover their inner strength, speak their truth, and lift each other up. Her work affected the lives of thousands of students throughout the course of her career.

She later founded Peak Performance Fitness LLC, a personal training and health coaching business, where she combined her background in education with her interests in fitness, behavior change, coaching, and relationship-building.

Dee was the ULTIMATE trainer — mentoring, guiding and pushing so many people to do hard things, to realize how strong they could be (inside and out) and to believe in themselves. She incorporated humor and random, spastic dancing when the music inspired her — motivating with laughter and the energy of the Energizer Bunny! One Halloween, she even dressed as Richard Simmons and coached in character! She poured over training plans, individualizing them to serve the physical and emotional/mental needs of each client. She trained people far beyond their bodies. Dee strengthened minds, lifted hearts, and helped people see what they were capable of becoming.

Dee also was an amazing athlete. She wanted the challenge! Dee brought the same determination to her own athletic pursuits as she gifted her clients. She ran everything from marathons to obstacle races, although she much preferred races involving trails, tree roots, stairs and pits of mud to what she considered a “boring” paved road race. The harder the challenge, the more it appealed to her.

Yet these activities paled in comparison to Dee’s focus on developing high-quality, meaningful relationships that would last a lifetime. Wherever Dee lived, from Texas to Maryland and from Missouri to Michigan, Dee left an indelible mark on the places and people, making and then carrying cherished friendships for a lifetime. Dee was truly a great friend; many who knew her regarded themselves as lucky winners of the BFF lottery, because that’s what being a close friend to Dee felt like. What defined Dee most was the way she loved her people.

Dee was the “person” for so many of the people she knew and loved. Dee drew from an authentic, honest and grappling faith to pour her heart into people. What made Dee an incredible friend was her ability to be fully present with each person. To be in a close relationship with Dee was to be fully known, fully loved, challenged in weaknesses and supported in successes. Dee KNEW each person who knew her closely. Throughout her life, Dee had a remarkable ability to bring out the strength in other people. As the ultimate trainer, she mentored, guided and challenged her clients to do hard things and discover just how strong they could be, both inside and out. She carefully individualized her training to meet not only their physical needs, but their emotional and mental needs as well. Dee didn't simply train bodies; she cared deeply about the whole person.

To her family, Dee was a beloved daughter, sister and aunt, affectionately known to her nieces as “Auntie Doo Doo.” She was incredibly strong, deeply loyal and very funny. But above all, Dee loved fiercely and deeply. When she loved you, she loved you with her whole heart. Her family will forever treasure a lifetime of memories, music, laughter, inside jokes and all of the little things that made Dee unmistakably Dee.

Dee's life was far too short, but her impact was enormous. There are people who are stronger because Dee challenged them, more confident because she believed in them, and more courageous because she reminded them what they were capable of.

Those who knew and loved Dee will continue to find her in the stories they tell, the lessons she taught them, the songs that bring back a memory, the laughter she inspired and those unexpected moments that make them smile and say, “That is so Dee.”

Dee was preceded in death by her mother, Barbara Campanella.

She is survived by her father and stepmom, Carl and Arlene Campanella; her sister, Lauren Rozdilsky; and brother-in-law, Chris, along with her nieces, Alyssa and Avery, who lovingly knew her as “Auntie Doo Doo” and held an incredibly special place in her heart. Dee is also survived by her stepbrothers, Adam Spina and his wife, Vanessa Nieto, as well as Nicholas Spina and his wife, Svetlana Bondar, along with their families. Dee also leaves behind Scout, an anxious yet lovable dog with whom Dee was able to spend some of her final hours.

Dee was loved greatly and will be missed by many. Let us all find peace knowing that Dee has entered our Lord in Heaven’s kingdom, and that Dee is resting in eternal light and peace.

Dee’s celebration of life will be Thursday, November 19, 2026, at Hope Church in Holland, Michigan, at 1 p.m. We ask that guests wear bright colors, athletic/athleisure wear, and/or University of Texas (UT) themed attire. We want to celebrate the light and life Dee brought into this world.

To honor Dee and support her family/loved ones:

Donations and contributions to honor Dee's legacy can be made to the Campanella Leadership Scholarship at The University of Texas at Austin at the following link: texasexes.org/CampanellaLeadershipScholarship. (For the best experience, we recommend copying and pasting the link rather than using the URL that appears once the page loads).

Nicki Flinn-Culver has designed an incredible shirt that honors Dee and will support her scholarship. If you are interested in purchasing a t-shirt in honor of Dee Campanella, you can do so by completing this form. Proceeds from your purchase will support the Campanella Leadership Scholarship at The University of Texas at Austin and honor her legacy. Be sure to include your name and shirt size with your order (please complete one form per T-shirt). Also, please provide your complete mailing address when ordering if you need your purchase delivered. All orders and payments MUST be received by Wednesday, November 4.

Finally, Dee Campanella’s family and friends would like to say a very sincere thank you to Dee’s lifetime community for offering so much support and love. Dee was overwhelmed with gratitude and unable to respond to all of the messages and texts she received over the last several months. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you very much.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Randi "Dee," please visit our floral store.

Richard "Dick" E. Damaska

March 6, 1930-October 30, 2026

Richard "Dick" Damaska, age 96, of Grand Haven, passed away on Friday, October 30, 2026, at Harbor Hospice-Leila & Cyrus Poppen Residence.

He was born on March 6, 1930, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to the late Louis and Lillian (Harrington) Damaska. Dick married Doris Swanson on March 30, 1957, and they shared 69 years of marriage.

Dick graduated from South High School and went on to proudly serve his country in the US Army from 1951 to 1953, during the Korean War Era. Following his military service, Dick spent most of his career working as a computer technician for IBM.

Outside of work, Dick enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman. He especially cherished the time he spent at Skookum, along with traveling, camping, and enjoying his place in Texas. Dick was a true knowledge junkie, always curious and eager to learn something new, with a mind that was constantly searching for answers. Most importantly, Dick loved his wife, and the time they shared together was what he treasured the most.

Dick is survived by his loving wife, Doris; his children, Lisa (Bob) Freeman, Kyle (Kim) Damaska, Tracy Fredricks, Richard Damaska, and Dana Elduayen (Ty Englehart); grandchildren, John Ratajczak, James (Rachel) Ratajczak, Kailey (Bren) Haak, Kinsey Spaulding, Kameron Damaska, Courtney (Joey) Flater, Ali (Eric) Ferber, Conor (Delanie) Fredricks, and Sam (Nicole) Hoats; 13 great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Don Damaska and Jack (Kathy) Damaska; and his son-in-law, Bruce Fredricks.

Private family services will be held.

Memorial contributions may be made to Harbor Hospice-Leila & Cyrus Poppen Residence.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Richard "Dick" E. Damaska, please visit our floral store.

Pamela Ann (Putt) Dandrea

May 8, 1964-October 22, 2026

Pamela Ann (Putt) Dandrea, 62, of Zeeland, Michigan, passed away on October 22, 2026, in Grand Rapids following a short illness, surrounded by her loving family.

Pamela was born and raised in Fort Wayne, Indiana, alongside her five brothers and sister, Kenny, Jeff, Dave, Rick, Mike, and Patty. She was the daughter of Wayne and Sue Putt.

After marrying Christopher Dandrea, Pamela moved to St. Joseph, Michigan, where they raised their two children, Daniel Wayne and Elizabeth Rachel. She worked for United Federal Credit Union for many years and continued her career in banking and credit unions after moving to Zeeland with her husband.

Pamela was a devoted science fiction fan who enjoyed watching the many Star Trek series. She also loved classic television shows, including The Love Boat, Fantasy Island, and The Brady Bunch.

Pamela will be remembered for her kindness, warm smile, and positive attitude, even throughout her health struggles. She rarely complained and continued to face each day with strength, grace, and unwavering faith. Her faith in Jesus Christ was a central part of her life, and she always looked for opportunities to share that faith with others. Her determination to keep going was matched by the strength of her faith, which remained a source of comfort and inspiration to those around her.

A celebration of life will be held on November 14, 2026, at Holland Baptist Church, 906 E. 24th St., Holland, Michigan. Visitation will take place from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., followed by the service at 11:30 a.m.

Though Pamela will be deeply missed, her faith in Jesus Christ brought her strength throughout her life, and her family finds comfort in the promise of eternal life.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Pamela Ann (Putt) Dandrea, please visit our Sympathy Store.

Ernest Duarte

July 6, 1946-October 23, 2026

Ernest “Ernie” Duarte, age 80, of Grand Haven, passed away on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Trinity Health Muskegon Hospital.

He was born on July 6, 1946, in Muskegon, Michigan, to the late Florencio and Rose (Shaganaby) Duarte.

Ernie graduated from St. Mary's Catholic High School and went on to proudly serve his country in the US Army. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, as well as a long-time, proud member of the VFW Lt. Wilbur Leroy Boyer Post 3195, where he served as treasurer. Ernie was also a lifetime member of the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi. (NHBP)

Ernie worked various retail jobs throughout his working years, including at Meijer and Wesco, and was a bartender at the former Laguna Beach Club in Grand Haven for many years.

Ernie loved all animals and especially enjoyed playing pull-tabs and chatting with his buddies down at the VFW. He was best known as a laid-back, lovable guy who was always wearing flip-flops and had a positive attitude and outlook on life.

Ernie will be forever remembered and missed by his brother, Richard Duarte, Sr. of Grand Haven, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Michael (Carol) Duarte and Theodore “Ted” Duarte; his sisters, Mary Korcz and Ginger Wesaw; his great-nephew, Briar Duarte; and sister-in-law, Catherine Duarte.

A memorial visitation for Ernie will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, from 5-7 p.m. at Klaassen Family Funeral Home. Full military honors will be provided by the VFW Lt. Wilbur Leroy Boyer Post 3195. Interment will be at Grand Haven Township Lakeshore Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Harbor Humane Society.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ernest Duarte, please visit our floral store.

Daniel "Dan" Fauser

September 12, 1962-October 24, 2026

Remembering Daniel (Dan) Fauser

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of my beloved brother, Daniel (Dan) Fauser, who passed away at home as a result of an accident.

Dan was a much-loved brother, uncle, and friend who will be deeply missed by his family. He leaves behind his sister, Nancy Fauser-Richardson (Derrick); his nephews, Alex Fauser (Alisha) and Trevor Cochrane (Whitney); and his niece, Kirsten Piatek.

Dan had a love for music and photography. If he wasn't sitting with a guitar in his hands, he was likely out and about capturing the happenings around Holland with his camera or drone. He had a way of seeing the world through his lens, preserving moments and scenes that others might pass by.

As his sister, I will always cherish the memories we shared and the place Dan will forever hold in my heart. His absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but the memories of him will remain with us always.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Daniel "Dan" Fauser, please visit our Sympathy Store.

Dianna Lee Harrington

September 26, 1948-October 29, 2026

Guided by faith, Dianna Lee (Lengkeek) Harrington, 78, of Holland, Michigan, walked into the light of heaven on October 29, 2026, leaving a world made brighter by her love.

Known as Mom, Marmie, Grandma, Grams, Grammy, and of course, Lady Di, Dianna was deeply loved by all who knew her throughout her full and beautiful life. Born in Volga, South Dakota, to Deane and Lorraine (Houtman) Lengkeek, she moved to Holland, Michigan, as a young child. She fondly remembered returning to the family farm each year to visit her grandparents, especially her grandpa Hessel, whom she adored.

After graduating from West Ottawa High School, Dianna pursued teaching at Grand Valley State College. She loved telling the story of meeting a very tan, handsome veteran at the grocery store back home — Stanley. Well, she thought that was his name, but Stuart didn’t mind. Their whirlwind romance blossomed into a lifelong love, and Dianna and Stuart Harrington married on June 14, 1969.

Dianna and Stuart were devoted to each other and their family. They built a loving home where they raised their four daughters: Heather, Heidi, Laura, and Jessica. An artist at heart, Dianna treated her home as one of her many canvases. She loved gardening; her many beds evolved over the years with inspiration from books and magazines. She especially treasured a patch of her grandpa’s rhubarb and delighted in sharing the tasty summer treat with a bowl of sugar and her grandchildren.

Dianna loved the fiber arts and was a gifted knitter, weaver, quilter, and seamstress.

She sewed Dutch costumes for all four daughters and, years later, for her granddaughters. She blessed her family with hand-knit socks, sweaters, and shawls.

She wove rugs and tapestries. Each Christmas, she and Stuart worked together on special handmade gifts. Among the most treasured are her knitted birds, one for every child and grandchild, each as colorful and unique as the birds that visited her feeders.

Genealogy was one of Dianna’s special gifts. She spoke of ancestors long since passed as if they were family, because they were. She traced lineages, pieced together family histories, and generously shared her discoveries. As a librarian at Herrick District Library, she shared her love of books and learning. The library and the close friends she made there remained important to her long after retirement.

Dianna’s faith in the Lord was strong. She treasured her Bible study group and rarely missed a gathering, valuing both the friendships and the opportunity to deepen her understanding of the Word and its place in the world. She prayed faithfully for others, had a tender heart, gave generously, and reflected Christ’s love in the way she lived.

Dianna is survived by Stuart, her husband of 57 years; their four daughters, Heather Minnebo, Heidi Harrington, Laura Knott (Dan), and Jessica Gonyou (Ben); her sisters, Pat Overway (Dave) and Pam Hartman (Scott); her brother, Butch (Marcia); her sister-in-law, Kathy Lengkeek; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and relatives in South Dakota.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lorraine and Deane Lengkeek, and her brother, Michael Lengkeek.

Dianna had eight grandchildren whom she adored, and who adored her: Anna (Tom), Jonathan (Annika), Lillian, Tyler, Joel, Faith (Jarret), Ryan (Krissa), and Sophia. Dianna was able to welcome her first great-grandchild, Robin, this spring, who brought smiles and joy into her final days.

Dianna is at peace in her eternal garden, where flowers always bloom, weeds never grow, and a hummingbird’s whispering wings remind us that love never ends; it simply takes flight

Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 31, from noon-2 p.m. at Dykstra Funeral Home – Mulder Chapel. A funeral service will immediately follow at 2 p.m.

Burial will take place at Graafschap Cemetery in Holland.

Jill Ruth Korvela

January 4, 1940-October 26, 202

In loving memory of Jill Korvela

Jill Ruth Korvela passed away on Monday, October 26, 2026, in Grand Haven, Michigan.

She was born on January 4, 1940, in Ishpeming, Michigan, to Carl and Ruth (Trebilcock) Superko. With her passing, she leaves behind a legacy of kindness, quiet strength, and love.

Jill will be remembered as a kind, generous woman with a sense of humor as quick as a whip. She enjoyed spending time with her loved ones, reading a good book, quilting, and playing cards with anyone willing to take her on. A true card shark, she always enjoyed a good game. She spent many afternoons battling for the Cribbage Crown with Rebecca Wolff, who was like a daughter to her.

More than anything, Jill loved to support her children and grandchildren. Over the decades, Jill attended everything from school musicals to figure skating competitions, and many graduations. During her daughters’ childhood, they always knew Mom was at their soccer games from the jingling of her giant key chain on her wrist while she cheered and clapped on the sidelines.

Jill dedicated her career to education as a middle school math teacher in Deckerville, Cherry Hill, and Wayne/Westland school districts, hoping to instill a love of mathematics and numbers in every student who entered her classroom. In retirement, she continued supporting childhood education by working part-time grading MEAP tests for students throughout Michigan.

A lifelong animal lover, Jill shared her home with many beloved pets: Crickett, Heineken, Champagne, Michelob (Mickey), Brandy, Kahlua (Lulu), and Tequila (Tikki). She was especially proud of rescuing Brandy and Lulu from puppy mill situations and giving them the loving, safe homes they deserved. Jill knew that sometimes, the animals we rescue end up rescuing us, too.

Jill is survived by her three daughters, Yvonne Korvela; Carolyn Toomey, married to Mike Toomey; and Patti Stebbins, married to Larry Stebbins. Her grandchildren include Amber Dewitt (James), Rosa Lynch (Ryan), Brian Toomey (Brittany), Ashley Toomey, Katie Toomey, Scott Stebbins, Brian Stebbins (Jenny), and Jeff Stebbins (Caline). She is also survived by her sister, Joanne Smith, 12 great-grandchildren, and many extended family members and friends.

Jill was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Ruth (Trebilcock) Superko; her siblings, Carl Superko, Elizabeth DeCelle, and Jack Superko; and her grandson, Mike Stebbins.

Jill will be deeply missed by her family, friends, former students, and all the animals who were fortunate enough to call her their own. Her memory will live on in the quilts she created, the lessons she taught, the games she played, and the love she shared with those closest to her.

Forever loved, always remembered.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to honor Jill’s memory to make a donation to the Big Lake Humane Society in Muskegon, Michigan. 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 Smallegan

May 9, 1934-October 27, 2026

Dorothy Smallegan, of Zeeland, passed away on October 27, 2026, at the age of 92. She lived a full life!

Dorothy was an exceptional hostess who blessed many with her gift of cooking and baking. Delicious food and pretty presentation were things she took care to do for those who gathered around her table. While there were plenty of favorites, she will be remembered by many for her chocolate chip cookies.

Dorothy was not only good at using her hands in the kitchen, but she was also crafty. What started as a skill in mending and making clothes turned into a love of quilting that she enjoyed for many years. More than a hobby, she used her talent to bless others through the Living Threads Ministry.

In her years raising a family and helping with the family business, Smallegan Wholesale Meats, Dorothy invested in her community and many dear friends in Forest Grove. Faith was also important to Dorothy as she was always involved in the churches in the areas where she lived: Forest Grove Reformed, Heritage Reformed in Hudsonville and First Reformed in Zeeland.

Although she lived her entire life in West Michigan, Dorothy had an adventurous spirit and love of travel. Some of her adventures included snowmobiling with friends, accompanying her husband and sons on family golf trips, exploring national parks, and flying halfway around the world to experience other countries and cultures.

At the end of the day, though, if you asked her, Dorothy most loved time with her precious family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Philip Smallegan (1992), and son, Steven Smallegan (2025).

Dorothy is survived by her son, David (Shannon) Smallegan of Arizona, and daughter-in-law, Brenda Smallegan of Zeeland. She was blessed with six grandchildren, Laura (Nate) Hinkle, Hannah (Jon) Haeffele, Lydia (Andrew) Loveland, Maria (Owen) Brookhouse, Vicki Smallegan, and Craig (Katie) Smallegan. Adding to her delight were eight great-grandchildren, Ezra, Jeremiah, Noah, and Theodore Hinkle; Naomi and Ellis Haeffele; Reuben and Johanna Smallegan.

A memorial service is planned for 2 p.m. Thursday, November 5, 2026, at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. Following the service, a time of visitation and reception is scheduled from 3-4 p.m. Burial will be in Forest Grove Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Living Threads Ministry, 100 Pine St., #145, Zeeland, MI 49464.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Dorothy Smallegan, please visit our Sympathy Store.

James Andrew Schmiechen

January 23, 1940-October 29, 2026

James Andrew Schmiechen, 86, passed away in Holland, Michigan on October 29, 2026, after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s.

He was born in Washington, Texas, on January 23, 1940, to the Rev. Kurt J. and Charlotte (Wulff) Schmiechen. When he was still an infant, his father was called to a church in Slinger, Wisconsin, before relocating the family to St. Louis, Missouri. Summers were spent at his grandfather’s cottage on Lake Winnebago near Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

After graduating from high school in St. Louis in 1958, he earned a B.A. from Elmhurst College in Elmhurst, Illinois, then an M.A. from Illinois State University in Bloomington, Illinois, and a PhD. in British Economic History from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. While at Illinois, his doctoral studies were directed by preeminent British historian Walter Arnstein and he was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to study at the London School of Economics at the University of London, London, England. In the late 1970s, he took a teaching position in the Department of History at Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, where he enjoyed a 30-year tenure, retiring as a distinguished Professor Emeritus in 2009.

His academic publications included books published by University of Illinois Press, Yale University Press, and Saugatuck-Douglas History Society, as well as numerous articles in scholarly publications. In 1984, he was invited to spend a year as Visiting Exchange Professor at Strathclyde University, Glasgow, Scotland, an honor that was repeated in 1992.

In the mid-1990s, Dr. Schmiechen began an illustrious association with the Saugatuck-Douglas Historical Society, where he became recognized as one of the foremost authorities on the area’s history, spearheading a number of landmark initiatives, including the purchase of the Old School House in Douglas, Michigan, which now serves as the Saugatuck-Douglas History Center headquarters, curating award-winning museum exhibitions, and authoring a number of books on the architecture and history of the Saugatuck-Douglas area.

He is survived by his twin brother, John David Schmiechen (Theodore) of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; his sister, Elizabeth Miller (the late Gary) of Malone, Wisconsin; numerous nieces and nephews; and his beloved lifelong friends Ken Carls (Nick Valenziano) and Mark Neidlinger (Steve Merouse).

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Richard K. Schmiechen (David Haugland).

A private memorial gathering will be held at a later date. Memorial gifts may be made to the Saugatuck-Douglas History Center or the Alzheimer’s Association.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James, please visit our floral store.

Nancy Alice Tuls

April 15, 1942-October 28, 2026

Nancy A. Tuls, age 84, of Holland, passed away Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at her home.

Nancy was devoted to her friends and family and worked for the City of Zeeland for 47 years. She was also a longtime member of Pillar Church.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, Henry A. and Gertrude Tuls; sisters, Virginia Tuls and Donna Skiles; brother, Richard Tuls; nephew, Henry J. Tuls; and a brother-in-law, David Skiles.

Nancy is survived by her sisters, Ginger (Doug) Vork and Barbara Tuls; sister-in-Law, Gloria Tuls; niece and nephew, Kim (Rob) Compagner and Greg Tuls; great-nieces and nephews, Kira Tuls, David Compagner, Joseph Compagner, and Isabella Tuls; and great-great-niece, Kahlan Compagner.

Visitation is scheduled for 3-5 p.m. on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland. A private burial is planned in Pilgrim Home Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Holland Christian Schools.

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Marla J. Van Dam

July 22, 1943-October 27, 2026

Marla J. Van Dam, age 83, of Zeeland, died Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at Medilodge of Holland.

Marla was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; son, Jeffrey; son-in-law, Brent Deters; grandson, Nicholas Deters; and sisters, Carole Lugten and Rosie Gutknecht.

Marla had a lifelong love of music and spent many years as an organist at Hamilton Reformed, Ebenezer Reformed, and Haven Reformed Church. She was a member of Community Reformed Church. In recent years, she enjoyed pictures of her family and always looked forward to visits from her great-grandchildren, Wesley, Wyatt, and Harper, along with other special family and friends. Marla loved all birds, especially hummingbirds. She befriended many of her caregivers and grew to love them dearly.

Marla is survived by her daughter, Jillane Deters; grandchildren, Eric Van Dam, Katie Van Dam, Megan Deters, Elizabeth Deters and Matthew Spangler, Emily Deters; five great-grandchildren; sister, Judi (Jack) Veldheer; in-laws, Roger (Pat) Van Dam, Karen (Ron) Sebright, Dave (Marla) Van Dam, Joyce Van Dam; several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be at 10 a.m. Friday, October 30, 2026, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland. Interment will be in Riverside Cemetery in Hamilton. A time of fellowship will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Harbor House Ministries harborhouseministries.org or Hospice of Holland hollandhospice.org.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Marla J. Van Dam, please visit our Sympathy Store.

Philip J. VanHuis

December 31, 1941-October 20, 2026

Philip Jay Van Huis, 84, of Holland, passed away on the evening of October 20, 2026, the day he and his beloved wife, Mary Ann, marked 49 years of marriage.

Phil's life was full of the unexpected. He was a quiet boy who never felt he fit in at school, a man with no college degree who spent his career in technical engineering, eventually building a business. And though he never had children of his own, he left this world as the beloved patriarch of a large family.

Phil was born on New Year's Eve, 1941, and grew up in Holland, Michigan, the son of John Van Huis and Marie Ver Wys, a proud native of the Netherlands. In 1948, when Phil was 6, his mother pulled him out of kindergarten for a five-month journey back to her homeland, less than three years after the war had ended, to check on the relatives who had lived through it. He walked among bombed-out buildings, saw ships still rusting in the harbor, and came home that June speaking fluent Dutch. He kept a few small keepsakes he had pulled from the rubble for the rest of his life.

By his own account, Phil was a “wallflower” at Holland High School. His real passion was electronics, years before it was taught in school; today, he admitted, they would have called him a nerd. He never forgot the few teachers who made learning come alive, and decades later he took a night class in American history just for the fun of it. His mother made sure his summers were full (“Idle hands are the devil's tools,” she liked to say), so he picked blueberries, did yard work around the neighborhood, and kept up the grounds and cars at the Ver Lee–Geenen Funeral Home across the street, where Mr. Geenen trusted him to keep his own hours. “That's something that gives you a good feeling inside,” Phil wrote.

In September 1960, a few days after Labor Day, Phil left Holland for the U.S. Air Force, hoping to study electronics. He didn't have enough high school math to qualify, so he prayed for radar school instead. He was assigned to the SAGE air defense system, where he was introduced to what he called “a new technology that would be the way of the future. COMPUTERS.” He served until June 1964, and those four years gave him the sense of belonging he had never found in school.

After his discharge, Phil worked factory jobs in Grand Rapids and Holland while watching for something better. In 1965, he answered an ad from Buss Machine Works for someone to put engineering drawings on microfilm, hoping to get his foot in the door. A senior electrical engineer took him under his wing, and the die-casting industry became his life's work.

Without an engineering degree, Phil went on to Peterson Associated Engineers and then Ex-Cell-O Micromatic, where he became a controls engineer, working with the programmable controllers that operated die-casting machines. He then helped create three companies, Prime Industries of West Michigan, Cardinal Technical Services, and later Cardinal Machine Services, named for his favorite bird, eventually becoming its sole owner. It was his proudest professional achievement. He ran it the way he lived, asking of every decision, “What is the right way?” He insisted that a real person always answer every phone call, and he helped his employees pay for classes, because “Education does not cost; it pays!”

On October 20, 1977, Phil married Mary Ann, and with her came three boys: Tom, Eric and Dan. When he began writing down his memories in 1999, he explained it was because “maybe someday one or more of my step-kids may be interested in how my life went.” They were, and much of this story comes from those pages.

In retirement, Phil had a passion for amateur (ham) radio. Under his call sign, K8PVH, he was an active member of the Holland Area Amateur Radio Club, where he volunteered in many capacities for both the club and Ottawa County.

The quiet boy who never felt he belonged became the center of a family that grew to include six grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and a great-great-granddaughter, all of whom he loved deeply.

Phil is survived by his wife of 49 years, Mary Ann; his sons, Eric (Christy) Matthews and Dan (Amanda) Matthews; his grandchildren Shannon, Alyssa, Ashley, Mary, Chloe, and Laura; his great-grandchildren, Hailey, Taylor, and Alexzya; his great-great-granddaughter, Saige; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by their son, Tom; his parents; his sisters, Louise, Joan, Cora, and Esther; and his brother, John.

A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, October 30, from 6-8 p.m., at the Dykstra Funeral Home - Mulder Chapel, 188 W. 32nd St., Holland.

Memorial contributions may be given to a charity of your choice.

Professional service entrusted to the Mulder Chapel.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Philip, please visit our floral store.

Howard Vander Poppen

December 14, 1940-October 28, 2026

Howard Vander Poppen, age 85, passed away at home surrounded by family on Wednesday, October 28, 2026.

Howard was born to Edwin and Geneva (Zoerhof) Vander Poppen on December 14, 1940.

Howard was diagnosed with a brain tumor on September 16. He had surgery at Butterworth Hospital and spent 15 days at Mary Free Bed before coming home.

Howard was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. His gentleness made him easy to love, his sense of humor made him easy to be around, and his love of the Lord was evident.

Howard was an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed hunting in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula since 1963, as well as locally. He also hunted in Idaho, Wyoming and Colorado. He and Carol had been camping in the Upper Peninsula annually. Hutchins Lake had been a favorite fishing spot. He also liked driving his ’92 Camaro to fun spots around town and meeting friends for coffee.

Howard retired from a career with Slickcraft and then Tiara Yachts, retiring in 2000 after 37 years.

He and Carol enjoyed traveling. Just last June visiting West Virginia, after touring many other spots in the US including places in Alaska, Hawaii, France and the Netherlands. The Badlands of South Dakota were a favorite. They also enjoyed a memorable work trip to Finland in 1969.

Howard was a member of Hamilton Reformed Church, where he served as a deacon, elder and Kids Hope mentor.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Delvin Vander Poppen, and sister, Shirley Dangremond, both in 2021.

He is survived by his wife, Carol Vander Poppen; daughter, LeAnn and Brad Waide of Knoxville, Tennessee; son, Ryan Vander Poppen; grandchildren, Danny and Elizabeth Waide; brother, Dale and Carla Vander Poppen; brother, Mark Vander Poppen; sister-in-law, Mary Vander Poppen; brother-in-law, David Dangremond; sister-in-law, Arla and Juergen Richter; brother-in-law, Mark and Devota Johnson; brother-in-law, Ward and Wendy Johnson; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Family and friends are invited to the committal service at 1 p.m. Saturday, October 31, 2026, in Riverside Cemetery.

A memorial service at Hamilton Reformed Church is currently being planned for a later date and will be published soon.

Instead of flowers, donations may be made to Kids Hope USA or audio Bibles for Mozambique at Audio Scripture.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Howard Vander Poppen, please visit our Sympathy Store.

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Gary Albert Weigel

July 28, 1949-October 27, 2026

Gary Albert Weigel, age 77, of Grand Haven, passed away at home on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on July 28, 1949, in Grand Haven, Michigan, to the late Albert and Colleen (McCue) Weigel. Gary married Debra Hansen on August 15, 1981, in Grand Haven.

Gary graduated from Union High School and was a lifelong resident of Grand Haven. He worked for Star Machine and then Integrated Metal (later became Herman Miller), retiring after 43 years of service in manufacturing.

Gary was a faithful Christian and avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing and camping, and especially cherished time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was also a sports fanatic with U of M sports, the Chicago Bears, the Chicago Cubs, and, of course, the Detroit Tigers among his favorite teams. Gary also coached Tri-Cities Kids Baseball League when his kids were younger.

Gary loved nothing more than being affectionately dubbed the "errand boy" and "chauffeur" by his family and was a passionate animal lover.

Gary will be forever remembered and missed by his loving wife of 45 years, Debra; his three children, Michael Hansen, Brandon (Lori) Weigel, and Laura Johnson (Spencer); his 10 grandchildren, Samantha and Sage Hansen, Kayli, Ashlye, Sydney, and Tessa Spencer, Alyssa (Cameron) Slootmaker, Hannah and Chloe Weigel, and Westley Vokits; seven great-grandchildren, Noah and Josiah Little, Jae Lynn and Ezekiel Spencer, Aurora Tanis, Elizabeth Duarte, and Hannah Merryman; his sister, Brenda Weigel; two brothers, Dave (Loraine) Weigel and Randy (Lorrie) Weigel; several nieces and nephews; special friends, Ben and Sawyer; and his faithful dog and companion, Donahue "Huey."

He was preceded in death by his parents; his great-granddaughter, Grace Duarte; and his infant brother and sister.

The memorial service for Gary will take place at 11 a.m. on Monday, November 2, 2026, at Klaassen Family Funeral Home with Pastor Doug Bytwerk officiating. Visitations will be held at the funeral home on Sunday, November 1, 2026, from 1-3 p.m., as well as one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at Lake Forest Cemetery at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Harbor Humane Society or the American Cancer Society of Michigan.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gary Albert Weigel, please visit our floral store.

Beverly "Bev" Wennogle

November 4, 1949-October 26, 2026

In loving memory of Beverly Joy Wennogle:

With heartfelt sorrow and loving remembrance, we announce the passing of Beverly Joy Wennogle, lovingly known as Bev, who departed this life peacefully on October 26, 2026, at the age of 76. She was born on November 4, 1949, in Canton, Ohio.

Bev will be forever remembered for the love, joy, and kindness she brought into the lives of those around her. Deeply spiritual, Bev lived a life guided by simplicity, love, light, and goodness. Driven by a genuine care and connection to nature and the environment, she lived with a sense of stewardship, constantly mindful of the planet and the legacy she would leave behind. A passionate supporter of the arts, Bev filled her life with creativity, beauty, and admiration for artistic expression. A compassionate and caring soul, she dedicated her life to helping others, offering comfort, guidance, and understanding to all who crossed her path.

During her professional career, Bev consistently displayed her profound gift of empathy. She possessed a rare ability to truly recognize, understand, and share the thoughts, feelings, and experiences of others. Bev spent more than 25 years as a teacher and guidance counselor, where she touched the lives of countless students. She later followed her passion for helping people through life’s challenges by becoming a marriage and family therapist. In these roles, she made a lasting difference through her compassion, wisdom, and unwavering commitment and service.

Above all, Bev’s greatest legacy is the love she shared with her family and friends. She leaves behind her siblings, John (Sandy), Steve (Kit), and Penny; her children, Kate (Andrew), Christopher (Madison), Kendra (Matt), and Elisa; her cherished grandchildren, Maya, Caydence, Mason, Winter, and Joseph; as well as dear extended family and friends, including those who had been part of her life for decades. Each will carry forward the memories, lessons, and love she so generously gave.

Bev is reunited in eternal peace with her loved ones who preceded her in death, including her mother, Irene; her father, Bill; and her brother, Mike.

Though Bev will be deeply missed, the love she gave, the lives she touched, and the kindness she shared will live on in all who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Bev’s life at 2 p.m. on Monday, November 2, 2026, at the United Methodist Church of the Dunes, located at 717 Sheldon Road, Grand Haven, MI 49417. Visitation will be held from 3-5 p.m. on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, located at 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417.

Memorial contributions in memory of Bev may be given to Love in Action Tri-Cities or Grand Haven Community Gardens, which provided Bev a meaningful experience during her last summer in Michigan.

Please share your memories and sign the family’s online guestbook at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services.

For those traveling in for Bev's services, please look into flying into the Muskegon County Airport (MUS) or Grand Rapids (GRR). There is also the Holiday Inn of Grand Haven and Spring Lake.

Dorothy A. Wetherbee

October 9, 1937-October 28, 2026

Dorothy A. Wetherbee, age 89, of Holland, died Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at her home.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ronald, in 2015 and was a member of Rose Park Reformed Church. She was born in Beaverdam and was one of 10 children. She loved being Grandma. She loved bowling and was league secretary for two leagues for over 20 years. She was an excellent seamstress, even making her own wedding dress.

Dorothy is survived by her children, Debra and Douglas Shoultz, Brian and Annette Wetherbee, Timothy and Kimberly Wetherbee; six grandchildren, Michelle (Nick) Bloom, Jenifer (Kyle) McHugh, Jenna Wetherbee, Michael (Karla) Wetherbee, Philip Wetherbee, Taylor Wetherbee; three great-grandchildren, Raegan McHugh, Kyro Wetherbee, Cy Wetherbee; siblings, Caroline Machiela, Harriet (Harv) Berens, Alma Vereeke, David (Marilyn) Vereeke, Paul (Alice) Vereeke, Arlene Westveld, John (Gretchen) Vereeke; brother-in-law, Bill Wetherbee; several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. Burial will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be 3-5 p.m. Friday, October 30, at Yntema Funeral Home.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Dorothy A. Wetherbee, please visit our Sympathy Store.