Obituaries: September 2025

EDITOR'S NOTE: This file will be updated throughout the month as new notices become available.

Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services

Jerina "Jeri" Kennard Warner
September 29, 1951-September 23, 2025

Jerina “Jeri” K. Warner, age 73, passed away Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at Trinity Health – Saint Mary’s Hospital in Grand Rapids.

She was born September 29, 1951, in Germany. At the age of 7, Jeri was adopted by Royal and Irene (Melanson) Kennard. As a child, Jeri lived all over the world with her family, following her father's service in the U.S. Air Force. Jeri became a naturalized American citizen at a young age and this filled her with deep pride. Jeri spent the majority of her career in Maine where she worked in the banking industry for over 30 years and retired in 2014. After moving to West Michigan to be with family, she worked a few years for Menards. She attended St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Spring Lake where she volunteered with the Food Pantry Ministry.

Jeri loved watching her grandsons play hockey and adored the time spent with her granddaughter watching movies and talking. She was an avid gardener, and enjoyed reading, bird watching and taking walks.

Survivors include her daughter, Samantha (Ryan) Alter; her daughter-in-law, Kristi Warner; and her 3 grandchildren, Julia Warner, Jackson Alter and Lincoln Alter.

She was preceded in death by her son, Michael Warner and her parents, Royal and Irene Kennard.

A Celebration of Life for Jeri will be held 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 49456. Memorial contributions may be directed to The Colorectal Cancer Alliance (colorectalcancer.org). Sign the online guestbook at sytsemafh.com.

Anna Mae Pelton
Aug 20, 1927-September 15, 2025

Anna Mae Pelton, age 98, of Grand Haven, passed away Monday, September 15, 2025, at Robbinswood Assisted Living Community.

She was born in Grand Haven on August 20, 1927, to Henry and Francis (Diedrich) Shashagway. Anna met James Pelton at Mangelson’s Gas Station (now Wesco), and the two were united in marriage on October 4, 1947, in Grand Haven. James preceded her in death on March 26, 2001.

Anna was a homemaker, raising six children and helping her husband on the fish farm they owned and operated. She loved knitting, sewing, canning, gardening, cooking, traveling and doing puzzles. Anna and James also built a home in Florida. She thoroughly enjoyed her daily Snickers bar and was a proud member of the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi Indians.

Anna is lovingly remembered by her three daughters: Penny Reed, Nancy (Greg) Berghuis, and Jill (Craig) Saurbaugh; two sons, James Pelton Jr., and Jack (Chris) Pelton; 11 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by one son, Bruce Pelton, on March 19, 2025.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the staff of Robbinswood Assisted Living Community for all the loving care given to Anna over the past 11 years.

A Celebration of Life will be 5 -7 p.m. Monday, October 20, 2025, at Connor Bayou Woodland Cabin, 12945 Cedar Drive, Grand Haven, MI 49417. Interment will be in Robinson Township Cemetery. 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.

Mary Jane Greenbauer
May 5, 1932-September 13, 2025

Mrs. Mary Jane Greenbauer, age 93, passed away on Saturday, September 13, 2025, in Muskegon, Michigan. 

She was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on May 5, 193,2 to Joseph and Gertrude (Scanlon) Polaskey. On October 20, 1955, Mary Jane married the love of her life, Russell John Greenbauer, in Grand Rapids. They shared 66 wonderful years of marriage before his passing in 2021. 

Mary Jane was a devoted member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Spring Lake. She found joy in reading, baking and working on crossword puzzles. Above all, Mary Jane was deeply devoted to her family and cherished every moment spent together with them.

Mary Jane is lovingly remembered by two daughters, Diane Sherman and Susie Greenbauer; two sons, Michael Greenbauer and Steve (Katy) Greenbauer; 10 grandchildren: Aaron Greenbauer, Michael (Amy Lee Nichols-Greenbauer) Greenbauer Jr., Caleb Greenbauer, Benjamin Thompson, Rachel Szot-Rogers, Hannah Greenbauer, Chloe Greenbauer, Jamie Greenbauer, Joshua (Krystin) Sherman and Nathan Sherman; and several great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, Russell, Mary Jane was preceded in death by her parents; granddaughter, Gabby Greenbauer; sister, Peggy Markowski; and brother, Joseph Polaskey. 

A memorial visitation already took place at The Spring Lake Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 213 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 49456. Burial was in Spring Lake Cemetery. You may sign her online guestbook at sytsemafh.com,

Linda R. Fischer
April 6, 1961-September 10, 2025

Linda R. Fischer, age 64, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. 

She was born on April 6, 1961, to David and Shirley (Sauders) Dornbos in Muskegon, where she spent most of her life. Linda graduated from Western Michigan Christian High School in the Class of 1979. She dedicated many years to RAMI, where she worked with skill and care, specializing in antenna components.

On April 17, 1982, Linda married the love of her life, John Fischer. Together, they shared 43 wonderful years filled with love, laughter and cherished memories.  Linda was especially known for her love of the Coast Guard Festival. She began a beloved family tradition of hosting gatherings during the celebration, one that will continue to be passed down through generations. 

Linda will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. She is survived by her loving husband, John Fischer; two brothers, Doug (Dawn) Dornbos and Dave Dornbos; father-in-law, David Fischer; sister-in-law, Lynne (Gary) James; three nephews, Josh (Andrea) Dornbos, Jonah (Jen) Dornbos and Austin (Kerri) James; niece, Caitlyn (Dennis) Dittle; and many dear friends. 

She was preceded in death by her mother, Shirley Dornbos; and father, David Dornbos. 

A Celebration of Life will be held during Coast Guard Fest 2026. Memorial contributions in her honor can be directed to Heaven Can Wait Animal Haven.  Arrangements entrusted to The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417.  Share memories with the family at sytsemafh.com.

Ted A. Poulton
January 26, 1945-September 9, 2025

Ted Poulton, age 80, passed away at home on September 9, surrounded by family.

Ted led a life marked by humor, love and a special appreciation for the small, quirky and beautiful things in everyday life. Even Alzheimer’s disease did not take away the twinkle in his eye or the joy and vibrant spirit he shared with those around him.

Born January 26, 1945, in Columbus, Indiana, to James and Helen Poulton, Ted’s family settled in South Haven before his junior year of high school. There, he met Shirley, and after their first date on September 15, 1961, they were together for 64 years.

Throughout his life, Ted’s passions were many, and he took pleasure in sharing new adventures with his friends and family. He caught the sailing bug in the South China Sea while serving in Vietnam, and raced with family and friends on his beloved old boat, Pandemonium, for 25 years. Travel and hiking were frequent joys, with Shirley and Ted embarking on spirited journeys together — full of affection and excitement. Ted could often be found on the Highland Park tennis courts, where his cut shot was legendary. He was also an incredible dancer, a lifelong learner, a seasoned Parrot Head, a wine enthusiast, and a margarita connoisseur. And, if you needed interesting conversation or wise advice, there was no better person than Ted.

Ted loved being a dad and adored being a grandfather. He delighted in all things grandchild — be that changing diapers, imparting wisdom in a way that connected with his young grandkids, attending performances in The Secret Hideout, being a “trouble maker” during Nerf gun wars, or building sand castles on the beach. When it was nap time, Ted often “led by example” to get his grandkids to sleep.

Ted found success in many different areas. He was the governor of South Haven High School, the King in "The King and I," and a track standout. After high school, Ted attended the University of Michigan for his undergraduate and master's degrees. There, he received the William J. Branstrom Freshman Prize, was a cast member of the Soph Show musical (Fiorello), and treasurer of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity.

Supporting the Grand Haven community was especially important and meaningful to Ted. He proudly served as president of Old Kent Bank in Grand Haven and Muskegon. Ted dedicated significant time and energy to organizations in the Tri-Cities area, including: GH Association of Commerce and Industry; North Ottawa Community Hospital; GH Rotary Club; Christ Community Church/C3; West Shore Symphony Orchestra; GH Area United Way; Downtown Grand Haven, Inc; Tri-Cities Family YMCA; GHAPS; Highland Park Association and Highland Park Tennis Club.

Ted is survived by his best friend and wife, Shirley (née Hosier) Poulton; children, Timothy (Ginger) Poulton and Lindsay Poulton (Christopher Frett); five grandchildren, Samuel and Oliver Poulton, and James, Isaac and Anna Frett; brother, Nick Poulton (Barbara Howard); sisters, Jane Collins and Carol (Tom) Overhiser; sisters-in-laws, Nancy Hagy and Janet Hosier; much-loved nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.

Special thanks to Drs. Ruchira Mehra and Joel Phillips, the entire staff at The Little Red House, Tammi and Darlene of Interim Healthcare Hospice, Matt at CarePatrol, and the Friday morning coffee group.

We will gather for a Celebration of Ted’s life 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at Noto’s at the Bil-Mar in Grand Haven. Casual, beach or tropical attire are encouraged. The celebration begins with a social hour at 2 p.m. Memories and reflections will be shared at 4 p.m.

The family requests no flowers. In honor of Ted, please consider making a donation and/or volunteering at these organizations: The Little Red House (please note “Ted Poulton Memorial Scholarship Fund of the Little Red House” in your donation), The Grand Haven Schools Foundation or the Ottawa County Parks & Recreation Commission.

Arrangements entrusted to The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417.  Share memories with the family at sytsemafh.com.

Latham Barnum "Trey" Lawton III
June 9, 1956-September 9, 2025

Latham Barnum “Trey” Lawton III, age 69, of Grand Haven, passed away Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at Corewell Health Grand Rapids Hospital Fred & Lena Meijer Heart Center.

He was born June 9, 1956, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, to Latham Barnum and Mitzi (Royer) Lawton II. He married Amy Susanne Harden on September 12, 2020, in Grand Haven.

Trey graduated high school in Henderson, Kentucky. He served his country in the U.S. Coast Guard for 23 years and later worked for My Auto Import as a car salesman. Trey was a member of the Charles A. Conklin American Legion Post #28, the Grand Haven Eagles and The Tip-A-Few Crew. He was well known for his love of food and made sure he would never miss a meal. Trey loved watching sports and was a devoted fan of the Green Bay Packers and the Michigan Wolverines. Socializing with friends and family brought him great joy. His most cherished time was spent with the love of his life, Amy, and they enjoyed spending life together.

Trey is lovingly remembered by his wife, Amy Lawton; his son, Latham Barnum Lawton IV; stepson, Braydon (Genevieve) Soule; two stepdaughters, Libby (Taylor Fortenbacher) Soule and Gracie Soule; three grandchildren, Latham Barnum Lawton V, Mimi Lawton, and Kyle Soule; father and mother-in-law, David and Katherine Harden; his brother, Michael Lawton; brother and sisters-in-law, David and Janet Rogers, Jeff and Kim Rogers, Martin and Jody Briggs, Scott and Lori Kopenski and numerous nieces and nephews; his much-loved dog, Hazel; and less loved cat, Wilson.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Olivia Sullivan.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at the V.F.W. Post #2326 Sgt. Alvin Jonker Post in Grand Haven from 1-4 p.m. A 21-gun salute will take place in Trey’s honor at 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family are appreciated to help with funeral costs. 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 ytsemafh.com.

Pastor Lewis O. Anderson
March 4, 1937-September 9, 2025

Pastor Lewis O. Anderson, Jr., age 88, of Allendale, passed away September 9, 2025.

He was born on March 4, 1937, in Ruthven, Iowa, to Lewis Sr. and Alice (Bensen) Anderson. On August 28, 1960, he married Mary Saba Swayze, and she preceded him in death on December 29, 2014.
 
Lewis was a pastor for the Seventh-day Adventist Church for more than 40 years, serving churches in Minnesota, Michigan and Indiana. During this time, he also served as professor of theology at Sahmyook University in Seoul, Korea and Weimar University in California. He received his Doctor of Theology (ThD) degree from Andrews University.
 
He is survived by three children: Jonathan (Debbie) Anderson, Eric (Donna) Anderson, and Gina (Kim) Fong; two grandchildren, Holli Fong and Hongjune Lee; siblings: Ruby Baer, Rosemary Anderson, Charles Anderson; niece Cathy Matthews; and many other nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his siblings: Gloria Rowe, Norman Anderson, and Wesley Anderson; and one grandchild, Hanna Fong.
 
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Sunday, September 14, at the Grand Haven Seventh-day Adventist Church, 15051 177th St., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12, at The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Interment will take place in Allendale Township Cemetery. Memorial contributions in memory of Lewis may be given to the Holbrook Indian School. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services.

Richard "Rick" DeHeer
1960-2025

Richard “Rick” DeHeer, aged 65, of Grand Rapids, passed away unexpectedly at home on Saturday, September 6, 2025, of cardiac arrest.

He was the son of Adrian and Marguerite (Katt) DeHeer.
 
Rick loved being in God’s nature and being on the water, including boating, fishing, and traveling (anything other than swimming!). He was an active member of Safe Harbor Grand Isle and the Riviera Yacht Club. Deeply devoted to his family, Rick will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
 
He is survived by his wife, Marty (Carroll) DeHeer; his son, Alexander (Kirsten) DeHeer; and three grandchildren: Dakota, Kyla, and Clayton. He is also survived by his sister, Robin Francis, and nieces and nephews: Kimberly Mason, Michael Lyles, Andrew Francis, Adrian Francis, Angie Francis, Amy Peterman, as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews. Additionally, he is survived by his in-laws, Glen and Lavonia Carroll; brother-in-law, Rick (Janice) Carroll; nephew and niece, David Carroll and Elizabeth (Jacob) Forquer, and a great niece and nephew.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Adrian and Marge DeHeer, and his sister, Judy Lyles.
 
A celebration of life will be held at the Grand Haven Eagles 925, 20 N. 2nd St., Grand Haven, beginning at 1 p.m. Sunday, September 21, 2025. Please sign the family’s online guestbook at Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services.

John Ringelberg
August 9, 1953-Sep 6, 2025

John Ringelberg, age 72, of Grand Haven, passed away Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Robbinswood Assisted Living Center.

He was born August 9, 1953, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Earl and Mabell (Grover) Ringelberg. He met and fell in love with Linda Dimitroff, and they wed on the Grand Haven Pier on August 21, 2010.

John graduated from Northview High School, and he proudly served his country in the U.S. Army in Korea. Following his military service, John worked at General Motors for 32 years as a Tool & Die Maker and as a UAW representative, retiring in 2007. He then drove a bus for Spring Lake Schools and was known as “Mr. Dutch,” retiring from the school district in 2017. 

John served the Grand Haven community on the planning commission for three years. He was a member of First Reformed Church, 32nd Degree Scottish Rite Mason in the Rockford Masonic Lodge, Shriner, VFW, American Legion, and Casino Club member. John loved the great outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, riding his Harley, the family cabin in Lake City, walking the pier with Linda, and time spent with family.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Linda Dimitroff; two daughters, Amy (Antonio) Quiñones, and Michelle (Gary) Christie; three stepchildren: Samantha Axlund, Christopher (Rachel) Zapczynski, and Alexandra (Nick Brown) Zapczynski; five grandchildren: Jaydin Quiñones, Jenna Quiñones, Jared Quiñones, Caleb Christie and Jacob Christie; four step-grandchildren: Jacob Edwards, Savanna (Matt) Edwards and Stella and Beau Zapczynski; a step-great-granddaughter, Anna Marie Schlink; two sisters: Jaqueline “Jackie” (Richard) Wright, and Deborah Ringelberg; two brothers: Peter (Darla) Ringelberg, and Gary Ringelberg; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his brother, Earl Ringelberg, and nephew, Scott Ringelberg.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Lewy Body Dementia Association for ongoing research and information on this little-known disease. lbda.org/donate. Share memories with the family at their online guestbook at sytsemafh.com.

Richard Kenneth "Rick" Justema
January 18, 1954-September 1, 2025

Richard Kenneth “Rick” Justema, age 71, passed away Monday, September 1, 2025, at Trinity Health Muskegon Hospital.

He was born January 18, 1954, in Grand Haven, to Kenneth Seymour and Clara Ethel Grace (Marshall) Justema. Rick married Nancy Jerovsek on September 17, 1983, in Grand Haven after the two met at a wedding.

Rick graduated from Grand Haven High School and then attended Muskegon Community College. He worked as a mechanical draftsman for B&B Design, and at Shape Corp. Rick was known to all as the “king of Post-it notes.” He previously DJ’d at weddings, enjoyed bowling, biking, and loved his dogs. Rick enjoyed following the Detroit Tigers and the University of Michigan football.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 41 years, Nancy Justema; sister, Linda (Jim) Justema - Konitzer; brother, Steve (Mary) Justema; many nieces and nephews that he loved deeply and was very proud of all their achievements; and his dog, Trixie.

According to his wishes, a private Celebration of Life will take place. Memorials to Harbor Humane Society harborhumane.org/donate are appreciated. 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.