Obituaries: Sept. 1, 2026
Our sympathies are with these local families.
Kenneth Michael Arends
March 18, 1971-August 29, 2026
Ken Arends, age 55, passed away peacefully on August 29, 2026, surrounded by his wife and children after a courageous battle with cancer.
He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Kelly Arends; sons Kyle, Jacob, and Ryan Arends; parents, Thomas and Barbara Arends; siblings, Tim (Laura) Arends and Diane (Robb) Abbaduska; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Ken was an avid outdoorsman. He loved to hunt, fish, and spend time in nature. He worked as a physical therapist for over 25 years. During this time, he had a positive impact on so many and often built lasting relationships with his patients. He was well-known in the clinic for his easygoing nature and his sense of humor.
The biggest joy in Ken’s life was his family. He and his wife, Kelly, had recently celebrated their 30-year anniversary. Their love that began in college only grew stronger over the years. Ken was very proud of his three sons. He treasured spending time with each of them, enjoying their shared interests together, and supporting them in all of their endeavors. He enjoyed sharing his love of sports and the outdoors with those around him. He was often doing this around the grill or campfire, which was where he was most comfortable spending time. He also had many special relationships with extended family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all.
Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Thursday, September 3, 2026, at Cook Memorial Chapel (East Building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Friday, September 4, 2026, at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, 2700 Baldwin St., Jenison, MI 49428, with visitation from 10-11 a.m. prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to BAMF Health Foundation or Paws With A Cause.
The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.
Mary Jane Ebels
March 29, 1940-August 28, 2026
Mary J. Ebels, age 86, of Holland, passed away Friday, August 28, 2026, at Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital.
Mary was born and raised in Grand Rapids and graduated from Grand Rapids Christian High School. She worked at Russ' Restaurant for many years as a carhop and waitress. She was a Standing Stone member of Ridge Point Community Church.
Mary was preceded in death by her husband of 43 years, Glenn Ebels, in 2003; and by her in-laws, Annabelle (Floyd) Vanden Belt, Jason (Esther) Ebels, Pauline (Claude) Rouwhorst, Bernie (Jean) Ebels, Don (Nancy) Ebels, and Maxine (Jun) Hop.
Mary is survived by her children, Lori (Gregg) Insley of Zeeland, Mark (Laurie) Ebels of Zeeland, Kathy (Mark) Matthews of Florida, and Steve (Julaine) Ebels of Zeeland; grandchildren, Annie Insley, Kami Insley, Kate (Jake) Van Keulen, Brooke (Dan) Rausch, Grace Ebels, Ben (Brittany) Hulst, Tyler (Hannah) Hulst, Brandon (Brenna) Hulst, Ross (Brynne) Ebels, and Britta (Andrew) Bouwman; 16 great-grandchildren, Waylon Bouwman, Wrenlee Bouwman, Asher Ebels, Paisley Ebels, Addilynn Hulst, Aria Hulst, Caiden Hulst, Emarie Hulst, Ethan Hulst, Greyson Hulst, Baby Rausch, Bowen Rausch, Millie Rausch, Blake VanKeulen, Bridger VanKeulen, and Coleman VanKeulen; siblings, Clare (Mary) Tigchelaar, Carol (Chuck) Fridsma, Don (Jan) Tigchelaar, and Deb (Darrell) Gritter; and brother-in-law, Bob (Marilyn) Ebels.
Funeral services are planned for 1 p.m. Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland, with Rev. Bob Nienhuis officiating. Burial will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens. Visitation is scheduled for 5-7 p.m. Monday, August 31, also at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to Donate Life America and Ahadia Academy.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Mary Jane Ebels, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Marilyn Joyce Ensing
October 9, 1936-August 28, 2026
Marilyn Ensing, age 89, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 28, 2026.
Marilyn was a stay-at-home wife and mother. She was a loving and kind grandma and great-grandma.
She was preceded in death by a grandchild, Matthew Avis.
She is survived by her husband of 70 years, Donald Ensing; son, Duane Ensing (Tammie Buehler); daughter, Diane and Ken Russell; son, Dale Ensing; grandchildren, Amber Arriaga; Jenna Stillson; great-grandchildren, Viviana Arriaga and Gilberto Arriaga; sister-in-law, Mary and Virgil Wilson.
Visitation with the family is 4-6 p.m. on Monday, August 31, 2026, at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland, MI 49464.
Funeral services are at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, also at Yntema Funeral Home.
Burial will take place in West Drenthe Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in Marilyn's honor may be given to Community Reformed Church, Food Pack at communityreformed.org/giving or by mail to 10376 Felch St., Zeeland, MI 49464.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Marilyn Joyce Ensing, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Judith Ann Geerlings
March 11, 1944-August 28, 2026
Judith Ann Geerlings passed on August 28, 2026, at the age of 82.
She was born on March 11, 1944, and was a resident of Holland, Michigan.
No services are scheduled at this time.
Bruce Harkema
June 20, 1949-August 31, 2026
Bruce Alan Harkema, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, friend, and faithful servant of God, passed away surrounded by the love of his family.
Bruce was born to Justin and Beverly Harkema in Muskegon, Michigan, on June 20, 1949. When he was 6 years old, his family relocated to Holland, Michigan, where he would build the life and legacy that meant so much to him.
Bruce graduated from Holland Christian and attended Calvin University before ultimately following the family plumbing trade. Plumbing was more than a profession for Bruce — it was a family tradition and a craft he took great pride in. He made his professional home at Nick Unema Plumbing and Heating, where he devoted over 40 years to doing what he loved with people he loved.
Bruce’s faith was the foundation of his life. He loved the Lord and sought to honor Him through a life of humble service — to his family, his church, his work, and his community. Service was simply part of who Bruce was. He was the kind of man who showed his love through his presence, his willingness to help, and his steady commitment to others. He was a family man through and through, a quiet and humble leader whose life spoke through the way he served.
Bruce found joy in the simple and lasting things in life. He loved fishing, woodworking, mission trips, watching sports, and spending time outdoors with family and friends. He especially loved water — whether water skiing at the cottage, the Florida beaches, or the lakes of the U.P. He loved watching his children and grandchildren do what they loved and took great pride in cheering them on.
Bruce was preceded in death by his mother, Beverly; his father, Justin; his brother, Tom; his sister, Patricia; and his brother-in-law, Dick Valk.
Bruce is survived by his wife of 56 years, Susan. He is also survived by his daughters, Erin (Gary) Howe, Jill (Ryan) Tanis, and Laura (Matt) Meiste; his nine grandchildren, Abe (Kate) Howe, Evan (Jamie) Howe, Brady (Morgan) Howe, Trygve, Graham, and Drew Tanis, Cole, Addi and Brook Meiste; and great-grandchildren, Kieran and Josie Howe.
Bruce is survived by his brothers and sisters-in-law, Judy Valk-Kraker and Steve Kraker, Cal and Margo Mulder, Lucy Harkema; stepmother, Mary Harkema; stepsiblings, Benjamin Harkema, Joseph and Trish Harkema; and many fond cousins, nieces and nephews.
Bruce leaves behind a legacy that reaches far beyond his years — a legacy of faith, hard work, service, quiet strength, kindness, and love for his family.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family, friends, church, and all those whose lives he touched. His hands were often busy serving others, and his heart was always pointed toward God. His family finds comfort knowing he is home with his Lord.
On behalf of his family, a special thanks to Meijer Heart Center and the Transplant Team; Corewell Oncology and Lemmen-Holton; and all the caregivers, nurses, physicians and support staff who cared for him with such compassion and dedication these past six years. We are forever grateful for the gift of your care and kindness to him and our family.
Memorial contributions may be given to Gift of Life and Holland Christian Schools.
Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Thursday, September 3, 2026, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland. The funeral service to honor the life of Bruce will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, September 4, 2026, at Faith Christian Reformed Church, 85 W. 26th St., Holland. Interment will be in Pilgrim Home Cemetery.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Bruce Harkema, please visit our Sympathy Store.
John Kooienga
October 1, 1930-August 31, 2026
John Kooienga, age 95, went to be with his Lord and savior on Monday, August 31, 2026.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Jane Kooienga; second wife, Gladys Kooienga; 13 siblings; one grandchild; two great-grandchildren.
He is survived by his children, Ric (Sandy) Kooienga, Bonnie Hitts, Pam (Ken) Waite, Pat Czuhai, Sharon (Mike) Bogardus, Doug (Donna) Kooienga; stepchildren, Ed (Jan) Spoelma, Kathy (Dan) Van Dyke; 19 grandchildren; 55 great-grandchildren; siblings, Gerald Kooienga, Lloyd (Vicky) Kooienga, Elma Meeuwsen, Lorraine Folkert, Twilla DeWitt, Joan Sattler, Lois Jean (Stan) Dykstra; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.
A private family funeral will be held. The family welcomes memories and messages at cookcaresgrandville.com in their guestbook online.
Berdena LePoire
August 27, 1934-August 31, 2026
Berdena LePoire, age 92, of Zeeland, died Monday, August 31, 2026, at Corewell Health Butterworth Campus.
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, September 5, 2026, at First Reformed Church, 148 E. Central Ave., Zeeland. Burial will be in Zeeland Cemetery. Visiting will be from 10-10:45 a.m. prior to the service at church.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Berdena LePoire, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Darlene D. Lundy
December 26, 1938-August 28, 2026
Darlene was born on December 26, 1938, in Muskegon, Michigan, to Clinton and Evelyn (Shippa) Nichols.
She grew up in Holland, Michigan, alongside her seven siblings and graduated from Holland High.
Darlene worked at Magna Donnelly for more than 15 years. She was also a former Dutch dancer at Evergreen Commons, a role reflecting her connection to the community and the traditions she loved. She found great joy in traveling, tending to her garden and flowers, and watching and feeding the birds that visited her. A talented jewelry maker, Darlene especially enjoyed attending art festivals and craft shows with her son, John.
Above all, Darlene was deeply grounded in her faith. She loved the Lord and encouraged those around her to place their faith and trust in Him. Her devotion, strength, and love for others will remain an important part of the legacy she leaves behind.
Darlene was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Arthur Lundy; her parents, Clinton and Evelyn Nichols; and her siblings, Clinton Nichols, Ted Nichols, LaVonne Uildriks, Marilyn Bosch, Eva Southern, Larry Nichols, and Gayle Nichols.
She is survived by her granddaughter, Selena Lundy; children, Jodie and Timothy Scammon, John Lundy, Gene Lundy; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St., Holland. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Hamilton. Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, September 1, at the funeral home.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Darlene D. Lundy, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Harold "Bob" Overweg
May 5, 1935-August 29, 2026
Harold “Bob” Overweg, age 91, of Zeeland, passed away Saturday, August 29, 2026.
He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Joan; his son, Michael and Amy Overweg; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Noah and Kathyrn Overweg, Nathan Overweg and his fiancé Courtney Kayser, Janelle Piffer and her fiancé Alex Jansen (Max, and Theo), and Jeremy Piffer; his brother, Kenneth Overweg; his sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Lenora Bell, and Sally Van Ess, David and Diane DeVries. and his former son-in-law, Jon and Deborah Piffer.
Bob was preceded in death by his daughter, Pamela Piffer.
Bob and Joan were charter members of Community Reformed Church. He worked at Herman Miller for 42 years, retiring in 1995. Bob and Joan enjoyed traveling and especially spending winters in Florida.
Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Thursday, September 3, 2026, at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland. The funeral service to honor Bob will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, September 4, 2026, at Community Reformed Church, 10376 Felch St., Zeeland. Interment will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be given to St Jude Children’s Hospital.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Harold "Bob" Overweg, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Ronald Peter Scholten
July 29, 1937-August 30, 2026
Ronald Scholten, age 89, of Holland, passed away on Sunday, August 30, 2026.
Ron was born and raised in West Michigan. He led a life characterized by love, faith, and dedication. He proudly served in the U.S. Army and enjoyed a fulfilling career at Shaklee for six decades. Having initially honed his skills as a carpenter, woodworking as a lifelong passion.
Ron enjoyed playing racquetball, pickleball, and billiards, embracing opportunities to connect with friends and family through friendly competition. His strong faith in Jesus was a cornerstone of his life, and he was always ready to share the gospel with those he encountered. Ron was a role model, and his legacy will continue to resonate in the lives of those he impacted.
Ron is survived by his wife of nearly 70 years, Vera Scholten; children, Thomas and Nella Scholten, Timothy and Lori Scholten, Victoria and Rick Walters, David and Lisa Scholten, Daniel and Suzanne Scholten; 14 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; siblings, Joanne and Mitch De Hoog, Carole Scholten, Jean DeYoung, Mark and Linda Scholten, Paul and Kim Scholten; in-laws, Ruth and Ron Telman, Lee and Jean Scholma, Bernard and Nellie Scholma, Calvin and Ellie Scholma; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Ron was preceded in death by his siblings, Jerry Scholten, Russ Scholten, Faith Scholten; in-laws, Rich DeYoung, and Louise Scholten.
A memorial service will be at noon on Friday, September 4, 2026, at Yntema Funeral Home, 251 S. State St., Zeeland, MI 49464. Visitation at the funeral home will be 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, September 3. Burial will be in Fort Custer National Cemetery. To leave condolences online, please visit yntemafh.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Ronald Peter Scholten, please visit our Sympathy Store.
Mark Van De Vusse
February 6, 1960-July 31, 2026
Mark Van De Vusse passed on July 31, 2026, at the age of 66.
Mark was born in Holland, Michigan, on February 6, 1960.
Services are pending and will be announced with a full obituary notice when they are confirmed.
Please visit lakeshorememorial.com for further information.
John Raven Woldring
March 4, 1954-August 28, 2026
John Raven Woldring, age 72, of Holland, passed away on August 28, 2026.
He was born to Carl and Jane Woldring in Holland, Michigan. After graduating from Holland High School in 1974, he went to work at Hope College. John loved working at the college and easily made friends with students and staff. He retired from Hope after 35 years of service.
After the death of his mother in 1994, John made his home with his sister Mary and her family. He enjoyed family events and loved the numerous animals that shared his life. In 2021, John became a resident at Ely Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Allegan. He had many friends and was involved in numerous activities at the center. He was loved by the residents and staff for his kindness and his gentle nature.
John lived his life to its fullest, bringing joy to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He had a great sense of humor and a way of saying things that always brought laughter. John loved riding his scooter around town. It provided him so much happiness and allowed him to be independent. John's number one hobby was Bingo. He played several times a week. He also enjoyed watching football and baseball on TV or in person.
John was proud to have visited 26 U.S. states, the UK, and Canada. He studied maps and was an expert on getting to travel destinations. John loved buying unique treasures at Rock, Coin, and Art shows. From petrified dinosaur dung to turtle shells, geodes, and peacock feather masks, it was always a surprise to see what he came home with.
John is survived by his sister, Sally (John) Cooper; brother, Chuck (Ronda) Woldring; sister, Mary (Dave) Lindsey; and 17 beloved nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Tom Woldring. His family and friends will forever cherish the memories they shared with him and the lasting place he holds in their hearts.
A visitation will take place 4-6 p.m. Thursday, September 3, at Dykstra Funeral Home-Mulder Chapel, 188 W. 32nd St., Holland.
Memorial contributions may be given to Benjamin's Hope or Harbor Humane Society.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John, please visit our floral store.
